Strategic Planning and Budget Committee

Amendment: That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo to approve an increase of supplementary taxes $1,500,000 to the proposed operating budget as set out in COR-CFN-23-047 dated December 13, 2023. In Favor (9) B. Vrbanovic, J. Nowak, M. Harris, S. Shantz, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, and K. Williams Opposed (6) J. Erb, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, J. Liggett, D. Craig, and C. Huinink

That the Region of Waterloo take the following action with respect to the 2024 operating budget as set out in COR-CFN-23-047 dated December 13, 2023, as amended: Increase transit fare revenue by $500,000; Increase housing rent revenue by $500,000; and Increase supplementary taxes by $1,500,000. In Favor (14) B. Vrbanovic, J. Erb, J. Nowak, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams Opposed (1) J. Liggett

That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo take the following action with respect to the 2024 Region of Waterloo Libraries (RWL) Budget: Approve the 2024 RWL Operating Budget with a net expenditure of $3,548,700 and a net property tax levy of $2,996,496; Approve the 2024 RWL Library Capital Budget and 2025-2033 Capital Forecast as summarized in Appendix B of Report COR-CFN-23-042, dated November 30, 2023, subject to final adjustments for 2023 carry-forwards. In Favor (16) B. Vrbanovic, J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, J. Liggett, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams

That the proposed amendment be

That item A) of the motion be amended to read: a) Approve the Waterloo Regional Police Service 2024 Operating Budget with a net expenditure of $250,909,148 and a property tax levy of $226,928,497. In Favor (5) D. McCabe, C. James, R. Deutschmann, C. Huinink, and K. Williams Opposed (11) B. Vrbanovic, J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, J. Liggett, D. Craig, P. Wolf, and N. Salonen

That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo take the following action with respect to the 2024 Waterloo Region Police Service Budget: Approve the Waterloo Regional Police Service 2024 Operating Budget with a net expenditure of $252,409,148 and a property tax levy of $228,428,497; and Approve the Waterloo Regional Police Service 2024 Capital Budget and 2025-2033 Capital Forecast as summarized in Appendix B of Police Services Board report 2023-198, dated November 15, 2023, subject to final adjustments for 2023 carry-forwards. In Favor (11) B. Vrbanovic, J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, J. Liggett, D. Craig, P. Wolf, and N. Salonen Opposed (5) D. McCabe, C. James, R. Deutschmann, C. Huinink, and K. Williams

That the 2024 Housing operating budget for Reaching Home funding be reduced by $240,000 and the 2024 property tax levy requirement be increased by a corresponding amount. In Favor (15) B. Vrbanovic, J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams

That the Region of Waterloo take the following action with respect to the 2024 Children's Services Operating Budget: Amend the 2024 Children's Services operating budget to reduce 2024 Transitional grant funding and adjust operating expenditure as set out in option 3, with a $405,031 net levy impact in 2024. Adjust the CWELCC service expansion request to reduce the request by 3 FTEs with a gross expenditure and revenue reduction of $310,110 ($0 net levy impact); and Direct staff to report back with an implementation update in 2024 in advance of the 2025 budget. In Favor (16) B. Vrbanovic, J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, J. Liggett, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams

That a closed meeting of the Strategic Plan and Budget Committee be held on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, in accordance with Section 239 of the “Municipal Act, 2001”, for the purposes of considering the following subject matters: a) potential acquisition of lands In Favor (16) B. Vrbanovic, J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, J. Liggett, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams

That the Strategic Planning and Budget Committee reconvene into open session. In Favor (15) B. Vrbanovic, J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams

to add the following: b. Direct staff to bring forward recommendations to transfer funds on a temporary basis from other regional reserves to provide an initial input of $5 million into the new Industrial Land Reserve; c. That initial staffing needs for any actions in the temporary Industrial Land Readiness strategy implementation be funded from said Reserve; and finally, d. Direct staff to complete the Land Readiness Strategy with funding recommendations by the end of Quarter 2, 2024 with any additional funding implications to be considered at that time and/or as part of the 2025 regional budget. In Favor (16) B. Vrbanovic, J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, J. Liggett, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams

from November 22, 2023 Strategic Planning and Budget Committee: Industrial Land Readiness - Interim Funding Strategy, COR-CFN-23-040 That the Region al Municipality of Waterloo take the following action with respect to an Industrial Land Readiness Interim Funding Strategy as described in report COR - CFN -23-040 dated November 22, 2023, as amended ; E stablish an Industrial Land Readiness Reserve ; and Direct staff to bring forward recommendations to transfer funds on a temporary basis from other regional reserves to provide an initial input of $5 million into the new Industrial Land Reserve; That initial staffing needs for any actions in the temporary Industrial Land Readiness strategy implementation be funded from said Reserve; and finally, Direct staff to complete the Land Readiness Strategy with funding recommendations by the end of Quarter 2, 2024 with any additional funding implications to be considered at that time and/or as part of the 2025 regional budget. In Favor (16) B. Vrbanovic, J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, J. Liggett, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams

That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo approve the following changes to the Region’s Grand River Transit advertising policy, as set out in report TSD-TRS-23-012 dated December 13, 2023: Increase the current limit of five (5) fully wrapped buses at any one time to fifteen (15), representing 5% of the fleet; Allow an additional 10% of the fleet to be wrapped (currently 27 buses), with the lower 50% of the windows uncovered; and Amend the 2024 Transit operating budget to increase advertising revenue by $500,000. In Favor (13) B. Vrbanovic, J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, and K. Williams Opposed (3) M. Harris, J. Liggett, and C. Huinink

That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo amend the 2024 Operating Budget to delay the implementation of certain positions for service expansions as set out in Appendix B of report COR-CFN-23-047 dated December 13, 2023, with a 2024 property tax levy reduction of $648,000. In Favor (10) B. Vrbanovic, J. Nowak, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, J. Liggett, D. Craig, P. Wolf, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, and K. Williams Opposed (6) J. Erb, K. Redman, M. Harris, D. McCabe, C. James, and C. Huinink

to Initial Amendment: To approve an increase of one year funding for 2024 for the Food Bank of Waterloo Region funded through the Tax Stabilization Reserve. In Favor (11) B. Vrbanovic, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, J. Liggett, D. Craig, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams Opposed (5) J. Erb, D. McCabe, P. Wolf, C. James, and R. Deutschmann

That the $756,000.00 increase in 2024, for one-time funding, via the Tax Stabilization Reserve. In Favor (9) B. Vrbanovic, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, J. Liggett, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams Opposed (7) J. Erb, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, and R. Deutschmann

the Region of Waterloo currently provides the Food Bank of Waterloo Region with an annual funding grant of $744,000.00, And whereas Kim Wilhelm, interim CEO of the Food Bank of Waterloo Region has advised Regional Council that they are seeing the highest numbers in the nearly 40-year history of the foodbank, And whereas more people are facing impossible choices like feeding their children or pay housing costs, or buy food or heat their home, And whereas visits to the foodbank totaled 450,387 in 2022/2023, which is almost 2.5 times the number of visits in 2016/2017, And whereas 59,000 people used the food bank program in 2022/2023, up from 30,662 people in 2016/2017 BE IT RESOLVED that the Region of Waterloo provide a one time increase in the grant to the Food Bank of Waterloo Region in the amount of $756,000 for total of $1.5 million in 2024. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the $756,000.00 increase in 2024, one-time funding, be funded through the Tax Stabilization Reserve, as amended. In Favor (16) B. Vrbanovic, J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, J. Liggett, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams

WHEREAS the Region of Waterloo owns an active landfill with an estimated 25-year life span; and WHEREAS the Region of Waterloo promotes three stream sorting, with organics and recycling to minimize the amount of residual waste at the curb; and WHEREAS the Region of Waterloo has a three-bag limit for the amount of residual waste left at the curb and a garbage bag fee for any bags over the three bag limit to encourage organics and recycling sorting; and WHEREAS the Region of Waterloo charges $2.00 for each bag tag to also encourage sorting; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Region of Waterloo increase the Waste Management bag tag fee from $2.00/bag to $3.00/bag effective April 1, 2024; and THAT the 2024 Waste Management Operating budget be amended to add $30,000 of bag tag revenue (estimated annualized revenue of $40,000); and THAT the 2024 User Fee and Charge by-law be prepared accordingly. In Favor (14) B. Vrbanovic, J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, J. Liggett, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams Opposed (1) M. Harris

6% of the current transit operating budget is allocated to Mobility Plus; and Whereas the current rate of undelivered trips on Mobility Plus is 5%, and has been as high as 15% historically; Therefore be it resolved that the target rate for undelivered trips will be 2.5% for 2024; and That staff continue to report quarterly on the rate of undelivered trips (previously called “unaccommodated trips”). 8.4 Councillor C. Huinink, Re: Faster Software Upgrade for Mobility Plus

Amendment: To reduce the proposed funding amount from $500,000 to $150,000. In Favor (16) B. Vrbanovic, J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, J. Liggett, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams

Regional council has established a new 2023-27 strategic plan “Growing with Care” that prioritizes equitable services and opportunities for all, including for children and youth, by providing equitable, accessible, services across Waterloo Region that support the social determinants of health, safety and complete communities as we grow; and Whereas the Regional Municipality of Waterloo delivers a variety of programs and services including; Children’s Services; and Whereas according to the 2021 Canadian Census, 101, 370 children aged 0 to 14 were counted in the region. Representing approximately 17.3% of the total population. In comparison for Canada the proportion of children was 16.3% in 2023; and Whereas youth wellbeing and belonging are increasingly becoming a growing concern in our region; and Whereas 1 in 2 youths do not feel like a valued member of our community; and Whereas the well-being of youth has been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic; and Whereas only 64.1% report a strong sense of belonging to their community, and only 26.3% report positive mental health and these stats are 15, and 54 percentage points lower than pre-pandemic levels, respectively; and Whereas there is an increasing need to fill gaps that support youth in the community as their wellbeing and sense of belonging is an integral part of our community, and building upstream community safety; and Whereas the region does not currently have a sustainable ongoing program that is specifically

Amendment: To reduce the tax levy supported 2024 discretionary grant funding envelopes by 10%. In Favor (9) J. Erb, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, J. Liggett, P. Wolf, C. James, N. Salonen, and K. Williams Opposed (7) B. Vrbanovic, J. Nowak, K. Redman, D. McCabe, D. Craig, R. Deutschmann, and C. Huinink

That the previous question be called. In Favor (10) J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, J. Liggett, P. Wolf, C. James, N. Salonen, and K. Williams Opposed (6) B. Vrbanovic, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, D. Craig, R. Deutschmann, and C. Huinink

WHEREAS the Region of Waterloo provides funding annually for a wide range of external organizations; and WHEREAS different organizations apply annually for varying amounts of funding; and WHEREAS the granting landscape continues to change; and WHEREAS the tax levy is facing increasing pressures: and WHEREAS an overall decrease of funding across the board would relieve some financial pressures; THEREFORE be it resolved that the Region of Waterloo reduce the tax levy supported 2024 discretionary grant funding envelopes by 10% set out in the following table: Funding stream Current 2024 budget provision Proposed 2024 budget reduction (20%) 2024 revised budget 2024 tax levy reduction Entrepreneurial Initiatives $76,000 -$7600 $60,800 -$6800 "Key Cultural Institutions – Partially funded from Municipal Accommodation Tax ($86,450) " $385,725 -$38,573 $308,580 -$38,573 Major Arts and Culture Organizations $340,000 -$34,000 $272,000 -$34,000 Community Environmental Fund $100,000 -$10,000 $80,000 -$10,000 Waterloo Region Arts Fund $392,820 -$39,282 $314,256 -$39,282 Upstream Fund $2,100,000 -$210,000 $1,680,000 -$210,000 TOTAL $3,394,545 -$339,455 $2,715,636 -$339,455 In Favor (10) J. Erb, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, J. Liggett, P. Wolf, C. James, N. Salonen, and K. Williams Opposed (6) B. Vrbanovic, J. Nowak, D. McCabe, D. Craig, R. Deutschmann, and C. Huinink

housing and homelessness are urgent and pressing concerns for the residents of Waterloo Region; and Whereas the Regional of Waterloo’s Building Better Futures Plan has led to a ten-fold increase in the number of affordable homes built across the community; and Whereas the annual contribution from the regional tax levy to housing services and homelessness has increased by over $28 million between 2021 and 2023; and Whereas the annual contribution from the regional tax levy to housing services and homelessness has increased by 111% in three years; and Whereas Regional Council directed staff to co-create with community partners a Plan to End Chronic Homelessness; and Whereas the final Plan to End Chronic Homelessness is coming back to Regional Council in 2024; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Region of Waterloo make an initial investment of $10.2 million to support the Plan to End Chronic Homelessness (inclusive of Fee for Service Requests in the Housing Stability System) in the 2024 Budget; and That this expenditure be funded through $7 million for the 2024 property tax levy and $3.2 million for the Tax Stabilization Reserve; and That staff be directed to report back by January 31, 2024 with a prioritized expenditure plan for 2024; and That staff and co-creators present the final Plan to End Chronic Homelessness with financial investments required from other sources, including but not limited to federal and provincial governments, to Regional Council no later than April 30, 20

That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo defer the motion discussed under item 8.9 to the Community and Health Services on January 16, 2024. In Favor (8) B. Vrbanovic, J. Nowak, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, J. Liggett, D. Craig, C. James, and N. Salonen Opposed (8) J. Erb, K. Redman, M. Harris, D. McCabe, P. Wolf, R. Deutschmann, C. Huinink, and K. Williams

Whereas Canada is currently in a housing crisis; and Whereas in July 2023, a group of local organizations and home builders launched “Build Now: Waterloo Region” to create 10,000 homes across the community; and Whereas municipalities, all levels of government, and the broader public sector own significant amounts of land; Now therefore be it resolved that Regional staff continue to work with community partners, home builders and area municipalities on affordable and attainable housing solutions on publicly-owned land; and That Regional staff bring back a joint-action plan to council no later than March 2024 for the acceleration of the creation of attainable and affordable homes on publicly owned lands across Waterloo Region, in principle. In Favor (16) B. Vrbanovic, J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, J. Liggett, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams

Amendment: Therefore Be It Resolved that the Region of Waterloo, on a non-prejudicial basis provide $236,390 in grant funding for 2024 to A Better Tent City as a Regional contribution towards the housing services being provided to regional residents. And that the funding to A Better Tent City be reviewed during the 2025 budget process. In Favor (7) M. Harris, D. McCabe, D. Craig, C. James, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams Opposed (9) B. Vrbanovic, J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, J. Liggett, P. Wolf, and R. Deutschmann

Amendment: To remove: Whereas review of their application appears to indicate that the evaluation criteria have been met In Favor (16) B. Vrbanovic, J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, J. Liggett, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams

A Better Tent City, an alternative housing option available to residents in Waterloo Region and funded by a non-profit, charitable organization , was the initial housing option of this type in Waterloo Region; and Whereas this organization has been denied funding on at least two occasions by the Region despite delivering services at considerably less cost than the Region; and Whereas A Better Tent City currently provides homes to over 50 residents at its current location where residents are offered shelter, wraparound services and other life affirming services; and Whereas our current shelter does not have capacity to accommodate the individuals living in this community; and Whereas Regional staff have confirmed that the likely outcome for the residents would be homelessness if the shelter ceased to operate due to lack of budget; Therefore Be It Resolved that the Region of Waterloo, on a non-prejudicial basis provide $236,390 in grant funding for 2024 and 2025 to A Better Tent City as a Regional contribution towards the housing services being provided to regional residents. And that the funding to A Better Tent City be reviewed during the 2026 budget process. In Favor (10) B. Vrbanovic, J. Nowak, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, and K. Williams Opposed (6) J. Erb, K. Redman, M. Harris, D. McCabe, J. Liggett, and C. Huinink

That the capital levy be reduced by the equivalent of half a per cent across 10 years of the capital budget. In Favor (3) B. Vrbanovic, R. Deutschmann, and N. Salonen Opposed (12) J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, C. Huinink, and K. Williams

one of the key strategic pillars of council is Equitable Services; and Whereas legislatively the Region of Waterloo is not required to provide waste collection to multi-residential buildings over 6 units as they are deemed commercial; and Whereas townhome complexes are not deemed commercial and as such are the responsibility of the Region to provide waste removal services, yet some complexes do not receive service because they do not meet the truck access criteria; and Whereas in complexes where truck access criteria are not met, the Region had commenting authority on the plan of subdivisions prior to these complexes being built, and the Region did not make comment on complexes with no through roads in context of waste removal truck access; Therefore, be it resolved that staff re-implement the waste management rebate for townhome complexes that do not meet the truck access criteria, and as such are unable to render our waste management collection services, beginning on January 1 st , 2024. 8.15 Councillor N. Salonen, Re: 1001 Erb's Road Shelter Location

That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo defer the motion discussed under item 8.16 to Planning and Works Committee to January 16, 2024. In Favor (13) B. Vrbanovic, J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams Opposed (1) S. Shantz Conflict (1) R. Deutschmann

Amendment: That the fee for cultural services, research time be free for the first 30 minutes. In Favor (16) B. Vrbanovic, J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, J. Liggett, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams

That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo repeal By-law 23-009 (as amended), being a By-law to Establish Fees and Charges for the Regional Municipality of Waterloo, and pass a new Fees and Charges By-law including the new and adjusted fees and charges in the 2024 Budget as set out in report COR-CFN-23-048 dated December 13, 2023. And that the transit cash fare increase be removed from the proposed 2024 User Fees and Charges Update. And that the fee for cultural services, research time be free for the first 30 minutes. In Favor (16) B. Vrbanovic, J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, J. Liggett, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams

That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo a dopt report COR-CFN-2 3-050 dated December 13 , 202 3 titled “Municipal Budget Regulation” as required by Ontario Regulation 284/09. In Favor (16) B. Vrbanovic, J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, J. Liggett, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams

That the Region of Waterloo amend the service expansion for Land Readiness and Development that is described on page 165 and 166 of the 2024 Preliminary Budget Document as amended on December 13, 2023 to adjust the start dates of positions requested in the service expansion, to include a contribution from the newly approved Industrial Land Readiness Reserve in the amount of $153,410 with a corresponding decrease in the 2024 property tax levy requirement. In Favor (16) B. Vrbanovic, J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, J. Liggett, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams

That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo take the following action with respect to the 2024 Plan and Operating Budget: Approve the 2024 Plan as set out Appendix A of report COR-CFN-23-047 dated December 13, 2023; Approve the 2024 Operating Budget for as summarized in Appendix D of report COR-CFN-23-047 dated December 13, 2023 and as amended by Budget Committee on December 13, 2023, with a net expenditure of $1,510,130,581 and a property tax levy of $ 746,230,093 in 2024; Approve the 2024 Capital Budget and 2025-2033 Capital Forecast as summarized in Appendix D of report COR-CFN-23-047 dated December 13, 2023 and subject to final adjustments for 2023 project carry-forwards. In Favor (16) B. Vrbanovic, J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, J. Liggett, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams

That the meeting adjourn at 7:40 p.m. In Favor (16) B. Vrbanovic, J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, J. Liggett, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams

Amendment: That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo to approve an increase of supplementary taxes $1,500,000 to the proposed operating budget as set out in COR-CFN-23-047 dated December 13, 2023. In Favor (9): R. Deutschmann, M. Harris, C. James, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, B. Vrbanovic, K. Williams, and P. Wolf Opposed (6): D. Craig, J. Erb, S. Foxton, C. Huinink, J. Liggett, and D. McCabe

That the Region of Waterloo take the following action with respect to the 2024 operating budget as set out in COR-CFN-23-047 dated December 13, 2023, as amended: a. Increase transit fare revenue by $500,000; b. Increase housing rent revenue by $500,000; and c. Increase supplementary taxes by $1,500,000. In Favor (14): D. Craig, R. Deutschmann, J. Erb, S. Foxton, M. Harris, C. Huinink, C. James, D. McCabe, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, B. Vrbanovic, K. Williams, and P. Wolf Opposed (1): J. Liggett

That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo take the following action with respect to the 2024 Region of Waterloo Libraries (RWL) Budget: 1. Approve the 2024 RWL Operating Budget with a net expenditure of $3,548,700 and a net property tax levy of $2,996,496; 2. Approve the 2024 RWL Library Capital Budget and 2025-2033 Capital Forecast as summarized in Appendix B of Report COR- CFN-23-042, dated November 30, 2023, subject to final adjustments for 2023 carry-forwards. In Favor (16): K. Redman, D. Craig, R. Deutschmann, J. Erb, S. Foxton, M. Harris, C. Huinink, C. James, J. Liggett, D. McCabe, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, B. Vrbanovic, K. Williams, and P. Wolf

That item A) of the motion be amended to read: a) Approve the Waterloo Regional Police Service 2024 Operating Budget with a net expenditure of $250,909,148 and a property tax levy of $226,928,497. In Favor (5): R. Deutschmann, C. Huinink, C. James, D. McCabe, and K. Williams Opposed (11): K. Redman, D. Craig, J. Erb, S. Foxton, M. Harris, J. Liggett, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, B. Vrbanovic, and P. Wolf

That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo take the following action with respect to the 2024 Waterloo Region Police Service Budget: a. Approve the Waterloo Regional Police Service 2024 Operating Budget with a net expenditure of $252,409,148 and a property tax levy of $228,428,497; and b. Approve the Waterloo Regional Police Service 2024 Capital Budget and 2025-2033 Capital Forecast as summarized in Appendix B of Police Services Board report 2023-198, dated November 15, 2023, subject to final adjustments for 2023 carry-forwards. In Favor (11): K. Redman, D. Craig, J. Erb, S. Foxton, M. Harris, J. Liggett, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, B. Vrbanovic, and P. Wolf Opposed (5): R. Deutschmann, C. Huinink, C. James, D. McCabe, and K. Williams

That the 2024 Housing operating budget for Reaching Home funding be reduced by $240,000 and the 2024 property tax levy requirement be increased by a corresponding amount. In Favor (15): K. Redman, D. Craig, R. Deutschmann, J. Erb, S. Foxton, M. Harris, C. Huinink, C. James, D. McCabe, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, B. Vrbanovic, K. Williams, and P. Wolf

That the Region of Waterloo take the following action with respect to the 2024 Children's Services Operating Budget: a. Amend the 2024 Children's Services operating budget to reduce 2024 Transitional grant funding and adjust operating expenditure as set out in option 3, with a $405,031 net levy impact in 2024. b. Adjust the CWELCC service expansion request to reduce the request by 3 FTEs with a gross expenditure and revenue reduction of $310,110 ($0 net levy impact); and c. Direct staff to report back with an implementation update in 2024 in advance of the 2025 budget. In Favor (16): K. Redman, D. Craig, R. Deutschmann, J. Erb, S. Foxton, M. Harris, C. Huinink, C. James, J. Liggett, D. McCabe, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, B. Vrbanovic, K. Williams, and P. Wolf

That a closed meeting of the Strategic Plan and Budget Committee be held on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, in accordance with Section 239 of the “Municipal Act, 2001”, for the purposes of considering the following subject matters: a) potential acquisition of lands In Favor (16): K. Redman, D. Craig, R. Deutschmann, J. Erb, S. Foxton, M. Harris, C. Huinink, C. James, J. Liggett, D. McCabe, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, B. Vrbanovic, K. Williams, and P. Wolf

That the Strategic Planning and Budget Committee reconvene into open session. In Favor (15): K. Redman, D. Craig, R. Deutschmann, J. Erb, S. Foxton, M. Harris, C. Huinink, C. James, D. McCabe, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, B. Vrbanovic, K. Williams, and P. Wolf

Amendment to add the following: b. Direct staff to bring forward recommendations to transfer funds on a temporary basis from other regional reserves to provide an initial input of $5 million into the new Industrial Land Reserve; c. That initial staffing needs for any actions in the temporary Industrial Land Readiness strategy implementation be funded from said Reserve; and finally, d. Direct staff to complete the Land Readiness Strategy with funding recommendations by the end of Quarter 2, 2024 with any additional funding implications to be considered at that time and/or as part of the 2025 regional budget. In Favor (16): K. Redman, D. Craig, R. Deutschmann, J. Erb, S. Foxton, M. Harris, C. Huinink, C. James, J. Liggett, D. McCabe, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, B. Vrbanovic, K. Williams, and P. Wolf

Deferral from November 22, 2023 Strategic Planning and Budget Committee: Industrial Land Readiness - Interim Funding Strategy, COR- CFN-23-040 That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo take the following action with respect to an Industrial Land Readiness Interim Funding Strategy as described in report COR-CFN-23-040 dated November 22, 2023, as amended; a. Establish an Industrial Land Readiness Reserve; and b. Direct staff to bring forward recommendations to transfer funds on a temporary basis from other regional reserves to provide an initial input of $5 million into the new Industrial Land Reserve; c. That initial staffing needs for any actions in the temporary Industrial Land Readiness strategy implementation be funded from said Reserve; and finally, d. Direct staff to complete the Land Readiness Strategy with funding recommendations by the end of Quarter 2, 2024 with any additional funding implications to be considered at that time and/or as part of the 2025 regional budget. In Favor (16): K. Redman, D. Craig, R. Deutschmann, J. Erb, S. Foxton, M. Harris, C. Huinink, C. James, J. Liggett, D. McCabe, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, B. Vrbanovic, K. Williams, and P. Wolf

That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo approve the following changes to the Region’s Grand River Transit advertising policy, as set out in report TSD-TRS-23-012 dated December 13, 2023: a. Increase the current limit of five (5) fully wrapped buses at any one time to fifteen (15), representing 5% of the fleet; b. Allow an additional 10% of the fleet to be wrapped (currently 27 buses), with the lower 50% of the windows uncovered; and c. Amend the 2024 Transit operating budget to increase advertising revenue by $500,000. In Favor (13): K. Redman, D. Craig, R. Deutschmann, J. Erb, S. Foxton, C. James, D. McCabe, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, B. Vrbanovic, K. Williams, and P. Wolf Opposed (3): M. Harris, C. Huinink, and J. Liggett

That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo amend the 2024 Operating Budget to delay the implementation of certain positions for service expansions as set out in Appendix B of report COR-CFN-23-047 dated December 13, 2023, with a 2024 property tax levy reduction of $648,000. In Favor (10): D. Craig, R. Deutschmann, S. Foxton, J. Liggett, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, B. Vrbanovic, K. Williams, and P. Wolf Opposed (6): K. Redman, J. Erb, M. Harris, C. Huinink, C. James, and D. McCabe

Amendment to Initial Amendment: To approve an increase of one year funding for 2024 for the Food Bank of Waterloo Region funded through the Tax Stabilization Reserve. In Favor (11): K. Redman, D. Craig, S. Foxton, M. Harris, C. Huinink, J. Liggett, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, B. Vrbanovic, and K. Williams Opposed (5): R. Deutschmann, J. Erb, C. James, D. McCabe, and P. Wolf

Amendment: That the $756,000.00 increase in 2024, for one-time funding, via the Tax Stabilization Reserve. In Favor (9): K. Redman, M. Harris, C. Huinink, J. Liggett, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, B. Vrbanovic, and K. Williams Opposed (7): D. Craig, R. Deutschmann, J. Erb, S. Foxton, C. James, D. McCabe, and P. Wolf

Amendment: To reduce the proposed funding amount from $500,000 to $150,000. In Favor (16): K. Redman, D. Craig, R. Deutschmann, J. Erb, S. Foxton, M. Harris, C. Huinink, C. James, J. Liggett, D. McCabe, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, B. Vrbanovic, K. Williams, and P. Wolf

Amendment: To reduce the tax levy supported 2024 discretionary grant funding envelopes by 10%. In Favor (9): J. Erb, S. Foxton, M. Harris, C. James, J. Liggett, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, K. Williams, and P. Wolf Opposed (7): K. Redman, D. Craig, R. Deutschmann, C. Huinink, D. McCabe, J. Nowak, and B. Vrbanovic

That the previous question be called. In Favor (10): K. Redman, J. Erb, M. Harris, C. James, J. Liggett, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, K. Williams, and P. Wolf Opposed (6): D. Craig, R. Deutschmann, S. Foxton, C. Huinink, D. McCabe, and B. Vrbanovic

Whereas housing and homelessness are urgent and pressing concerns for the residents of Waterloo Region; and Whereas the Regional of Waterloo’s Building Better Futures Plan has led to a ten-fold increase in the number of affordable homes built across the community; and Whereas the annual contribution from the regional tax levy to housing services and homelessness has increased by over $28 million between 2021 and 2023; and Whereas the annual contribution from the regional tax levy to housing services and homelessness has increased by 111% in three years; and Whereas Regional Council directed staff to co-create with community partners a Plan to End Chronic Homelessness; and Whereas the final Plan to End Chronic Homelessness is coming back to Regional Council in 2024; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Region of Waterloo make an initial investment of $10.2 million to support the Plan to End Chronic Homelessness (inclusive of Fee for Service Requests in the Housing Stability System) in the 2024 Budget; and That this expenditure be funded through $7 million for the 2024 property tax levy and $3.2 million for the Tax Stabilization Reserve; and That staff be directed to report back by January 31, 2024 with a prioritized expenditure plan for 2024; and That staff and co-creators present the final Plan to End Chronic Homelessness with financial investments required from other sources, including but not limited to federal and provincial governments, to Regional Council no later than Apri

That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo defer the motion discussed under item 8.9 to the Community and Health Services on January 16, 2024. In Favor (8): D. Craig, S. Foxton, C. James, J. Liggett, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, and B. Vrbanovic Opposed (8): K. Redman, R. Deutschmann, J. Erb, M. Harris, C. Huinink, D. McCabe, K. Williams, and P. Wolf

Whereas three of the Region of Waterloo’s Strategic Plan pillars are Climate Aligned Growth, Equitable Services and Opportunities and Resilient and Future Ready Organization; and Whereas it is more efficient and cost-effective to reduce and divert waste from the waste management stream than to manage it within the waste management stream; and Whereas the provincial government has an Organics Framework with respect to the reduction and processing of organic material; and Whereas increased diversion of all materials from the landfill will lengthen the life of the landfill and defer and/or delay the cost of expanding the landfill; and Whereas increased diversion of organic material will reduce the emission of harmful methane gas; and Whereas developing community programs to divert textiles and healthy food from the waste stream will support equity deserving groups, reduce waste management costs and help to reduce GHG emissions; and Whereas with additional expertise the Region could work directly with residents, businesses and community partners to develop a waste diversion program for organics, textiles, electronics and other items that could continue to be used; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the 2024 Plan and Budget be amended to create a Waste Diversion strategy dedicated to working directly with the residents, businesses and community partners to increase waste diversion, the goal of which is to create upstream cost savings, reduce GHG emissions and delay the cost of expandin

Amendment: To remove: Whereas review of their application appears to indicate that the evaluation criteria have been met In Favor (16): K. Redman, D. Craig, R. Deutschmann, J. Erb, S. Foxton, M. Harris, C. Huinink, C. James, J. Liggett, D. McCabe, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, B. Vrbanovic, K. Williams, and P. Wolf

Whereas A Better Tent City, an alternative housing option available to residents in Waterloo Region and funded by a non-profit, charitable organization , was the initial housing option of this type in Waterloo Region; and Whereas this organization has been denied funding on at least two occasions by the Region despite delivering services at considerably less cost than the Region; and Whereas A Better Tent City currently provides homes to over 50 residents at its current location where residents are offered shelter, wraparound services and other life affirming services; and Whereas our current shelter does not have capacity to accommodate the individuals living in this community; and Whereas Regional staff have confirmed that the likely outcome for the residents would be homelessness if the shelter ceased to operate due to lack of budget; Therefore Be It Resolved that the Region of Waterloo, on a non-prejudicial basis provide $236,390 in grant funding for 2024 and 2025 to A Better Tent City as a Regional contribution towards the housing services being provided to regional residents. And that the funding to A Better Tent City be reviewed during the 2026 budget process. In Favor (10): D. Craig, R. Deutschmann, S. Foxton, C. James, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, B. Vrbanovic, K. Williams, and P. Wolf Opposed (6): K. Redman, J. Erb, M. Harris, C. Huinink, J. Liggett, and D. McCabe

That the capital levy be reduced by the equivalent of half a per cent across 10 years of the capital budget. In Favor (3): R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, and B. Vrbanovic Opposed (12): K. Redman, D. Craig, J. Erb, S. Foxton, M. Harris, C. Huinink, C. James, D. McCabe, J. Nowak, S. Shantz, K. Williams, and P. Wolf

That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo defer the motion discussed under item 8.16 to Planning and Works Committee to January 16, 2024. In Favor (13): K. Redman, D. Craig, J. Erb, S. Foxton, M. Harris, C. Huinink, C. James, D. McCabe, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, B. Vrbanovic, K. Williams, and P. Wolf Opposed (1): S. Shantz Conflict (1): R. Deutschmann

Amendment: To remove transit cash fare increase from the proposed 2024 User Fees and Charges Update. In Favor (9): D. Craig, R. Deutschmann, S. Foxton, C. Huinink, C. James, D. McCabe, S. Shantz, K. Williams, and P. Wolf Opposed (7): K. Redman, J. Erb, M. Harris, J. Liggett, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, and B. Vrbanovic

Amendment: That the fee for cultural services, research time be free for the first 30 minutes. In Favor (16): K. Redman, D. Craig, R. Deutschmann, J. Erb, S. Foxton, M. Harris, C. Huinink, C. James, J. Liggett, D. McCabe, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, B. Vrbanovic, K. Williams, and P. Wolf

That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo adopt report COR-CFN-23-050 dated December 13, 2023 titled “Municipal Budget Regulation” as required by Ontario Regulation 284/09. In Favor (16): K. Redman, D. Craig, R. Deutschmann, J. Erb, S. Foxton, M. Harris, C. Huinink, C. James, J. Liggett, D. McCabe, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, B. Vrbanovic, K. Williams, and P. Wolf

That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo take the following action with respect to the 2024 Plan and Operating Budget: 1. Approve the 2024 Plan as set out Appendix A of report COR-CFN-23-047 dated December 13, 2023; 2. Approve the 2024 Operating Budget for as summarized in Appendix D of report COR-CFN-23-047 dated December 13, 2023 and as amended by Budget Committee on December 13, 2023, with a net expenditure of $1,510,130,581 and a property tax levy of $ 746,230,093 in 2024; 3. Approve the 2024 Capital Budget and 2025-2033 Capital Forecast as summarized in Appendix D of report COR-CFN-23-047 dated December 13, 2023 and subject to final adjustments for 2023 project carry-forwards. In Favor (16): K. Redman, D. Craig, R. Deutschmann, J. Erb, S. Foxton, M. Harris, C. Huinink, C. James, J. Liggett, D. McCabe, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, B. Vrbanovic, K. Williams, and P. Wolf

That a closed meeting of the Council be held on December 13, 2013 immediately following the Strategic Planning and Budget Committee, in accordance with Section 239 of the “Municipal Act, 2001”, for the purposes of considering the following subject matters: 1. Potential litigation related to identified risks. 2. *Personal matters regarding an identifiable individual. In Favor (16): K. Redman, D. Craig, R. Deutschmann, J. Erb, S. Foxton, M. Harris, C. Huinink, C. James, J. Liggett, D. McCabe, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, B. Vrbanovic, K. Williams, and P. Wolf

That the meeting adjourn at 7:40 p.m. In Favor (16): K. Redman, D. Craig, R. Deutschmann, J. Erb, S. Foxton, M. Harris, C. Huinink, C. James, J. Liggett, D. McCabe, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, B. Vrbanovic, K. Williams, and P. Wolf