Public Notice

Share your thoughts: Help shape Downtown construction

It’s time for an important conversation about construction timing for the Downtown Infrastructure Renewal Program

Guelph, Ont., March 18, 2024 – As we prepare for Downtown infrastructure renewal, we want to hear from Guelph residents and businesses about how to best plan for this construction in the Downtown.

We’re looking at different options on construction timing and phasing that can mean either shorter or longer timelines over the course of this multi-year project, and we need the community’s input to make sure we get it right.

Between now and April 7, share your thoughts online about how you’d like to see Downtown construction take shape over the next few decades.
You can also visit our public open house to have your say:

Date: Wednesday, March 27
Time:
6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Location:
City Hall, 1 Carden Street, Guelph, Ontario

What is the Downtown Infrastructure Renewal Program?

We have aging infrastructure in the Downtown that must be replaced; some of the underground pipes are over 100 years old! Leaving these aging water and sewer pipes as-is will create problems for our Downtown community if they break or fail.

This program is a once-in-a-generation construction project. It will improve and upgrade Downtown Guelph’s roads, sewers, watermains, sidewalks, cycling facilities, and the streetscape to replace aging infrastructure and make the Downtown even more resilient, welcoming, and lovable.

Guided by the Downtown Secondary Plan and the Streetscape Manual, this important renewal work will create the foundation for future success and sustainability for Downtown Guelph for the next 50 years and beyond.

This project is also part of the overall Downtown Renewal Program that will revitalize and transform Downtown Guelph.

Let’s get ready for construction together

Downtown Guelph is and will continue to be the heart of our city. It’s important that we hear from Guelph residents how you’d like to see this work unfold. If you live, work, or own a business in Guelph, especially in the Downtown area, we’d love to hear from (or speak with!) you to help create a vibrant place for everyone in the Downtown.

For more information

Andrew Miller, P.Eng, PMP, Project Engineer
Design and Construction, Engineering and Transportation Services
City of Guelph
519-822-1260 extension 3608
[email protected]

Give back to Guelph parks: Sign up for Clean and Green

We supply the bags, you supply the help

Guelph, Ont., March 18, 2024 – Registration for this year’s Clean and Green spring community cleanup is open. Give back to the spaces that have given us so much by signing up to clean Guelph’s parks, trails and open spaces during the month of April.

We invite you to join in this collective effort this spring: individuals, teams, businesses, neighbourhood and community groups, adults, and children – all are welcome. Let’s make this year our biggest clean up yet!

Register by selecting a space from our map; this will help ensure we’re not all cleaning the same places. If you’re feeling keen to clean, you can sign up to clean more than one site by registering multiple times! Let us know when you register if you need free garbage bags and gloves, and we’ll let you know when and where to pick them up.

Register by March 28

Register online in four easy steps:

1.   Check the map to see if your preferred location is available (it will be outlined in green).
2.   Click your location and make note of the name of the location on the map.
3.   Select the location name from the drop-down menu.
4.   Click submit to register.

Please email [email protected] or call 519-837-5626 if you want to clean up a location not shown on the map or need help with registration.

About Clean and Green

Clean and Green is a community event that encourages volunteers to sign up to help clean select parks, trails and greenspaces. The last cleanup in 2023 involved over 1,700 volunteers and saw 136 locations cleaned! Let’s work together to set a new community record this year.

For more information

[email protected]
519-837-5626

 

Clair-Maltby Secondary Plan officially incorporated into the City’s Official Plan

Guelph, Ont., March 14, 2024 – The City has worked over multiple years with several interested parties to bring the Clair-Maltby Secondary Plan from concept to reality. In May 2022, Council approved Official Plan Amendment No. 79 (OPA 79) for the Clair-Maltby Secondary Plan.

On Friday, February 16, 2024, following negotiations and Tribunal-led mediation, an amended version of OPA 79 was submitted for approval to the Ontario Land Tribunal, and on March 6, 2024, the   of the Clair-Maltby Secondary Plan.

The City was able to file with the Ontario Land Tribunal after reaching a consensus position with the assistance of a team of Tribunal-appointed mediators. The amended OPA 79 is supported by all appellants who had appealed the plan.

Amended plan maintains key policies and environment-first approach

The amended plan maintains key policies and the City’s environment-first approach while helping to achieve Guelph’s growth management targets. Modifications made to the plan during mediation uphold the policy directions approved by Council and remain aligned with the vision and principles for the plan.

It guides the development of Clair-Maltby lands in alignment with Future Guelph, the City’s strategic plan. Guidance documents include a land use policy framework, and requirements for water, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure plans that must be in place before development of these lands can begin.

The amended plan:

  • provides clarity and consistency of language related to policy direction and land use permissions;
  • protects the natural heritage system, natural features, and the Paris-Galt Moraine;
  • proposes a transportation network that supports all modes of travel with roads, bicycle infrastructure, recreational trails and pedestrian walkways that provide strong connections throughout the Clair-Maltby area and to the rest of Guelph;
  • includes a system of parks, open spaces and trails to provide recreation opportunities;
  • is primarily residential with a range of housing types, mixed-use areas, and locations for schools and parks; and
  • encourages development that contributes to the City’s goal of being a net-zero carbon community by 2050.

Plan takes immediate effect

With approval received, the Clair-Maltby Secondary Plan takes immediate effect, officially becoming incorporated into the City’s Official Plan which will include the new policies, schedules and corresponding definitions for the secondary plan.

Next steps

Our next step as a City is to file the final Master Environmental Servicing Plan, which will open a 30-day public comment period and 30-day ministry review period to complete the environmental assessment process. Stay tuned to guelph.ca/clair-maltby for further developments on these next steps.

For more information

Melissa Aldunate
Manager, Policy Planning, Planning and Building Services
City of Guelph
519-822-1260 extension 2361
[email protected]

Krista Walkey
General Manager, Planning and Building Services
City of Guelph
519-822-1260, extension 2395
[email protected]

 

Proposed development in your community

Public meeting for planning applications

Guelph City Council will hold a public meeting in accordance with the Planning Act to consider the following planning and development applications. The meeting will take place:

Tuesday, April 9, 2024
10 a.m.

This is a hybrid City Council meeting that can be watched online at guelph.ca/live or in-person in the Council Chambers at Guelph City Hall, 1 Carden Street, Guelph, Ontario.

About the planning application(s)

Gentle Density: Permitting 4 Dwelling Units on a Lot (File: OZS24-002) – Citywide

Zoning Bylaw amendments are proposed to allow up to 4 dwelling units on low-density residential lots in Guelph. New and amended regulations would apply city-wide and affect zones that permit single-detached, semi-detached, and on-street townhouse dwelling unit types, together with revised regulations related to Additional Residential Dwelling Units (ARDUs).

The Planner to contact for this application:
Cushla Matthews
Development Advisor
519-837-5616 ext. 3982

Speak at the meeting or provide written comments

If you wish to speak to City Council about the application you may register as a delegation at guelph.ca/delegations or by contacting the City Clerk’s Office at 519-837-5603 or email [email protected] no later than Friday April 5, 2024 at 10 a.m.  When your registration is received, a confirmation message and instructions for participating in the hybrid public meeting will be provided. Instructions will also be provided during the meeting to ensure that those watching online and attending in-person will be given the opportunity to speak.

If you prefer to comment in writing, please send your written comments to the City Clerk’s Office no later than Friday, April 5, 2024 at 10 a.m.

Important information about making a submission

If a person or public body does not make oral or written submissions at a public meeting of Guelph City Council before the bylaw is passed, the person or public body:

  • is not entitled to appeal the decision of Guelph City Council to the Ontario Land Tribunal; or
  • may not be added as a party to the hearing of an appeal before the Ontario Land Tribunal unless, in the opinion of the Tribunal, there are reasonable grounds to do so.

For more information

The staff report will be available at noon on Thursday, March 28, 2024 at https://www.haveyoursay.guelph.ca/housing-affordability

Contact the City Clerk’s Office

If you would like to be notified of City Council’s decision with respect to a planning application, you must make a written request to:

Stephen O’Brien, City Clerk
City of Guelph
1 Carden Street, Guelph ON N1H 3A1
519-837-5603 or TTY 519-826-9771
Email [email protected]

Proposed development in your community

Combined Public meeting and Decision meeting for a planning application

Guelph City Council will hold a public meeting and decision meeting in accordance with the Planning Act to consider the following planning and development application. The meeting will take place:

Tuesday, April 9, 2024
10:00 a.m.

This is a hybrid City Council meeting that can be watched online at guelph.ca/live or in-person in the Council Chambers at Guelph City Hall, 1 Carden Street, Guelph, Ontario.

About the planning application(s)

35 and 41 Janefield Avenue (File: OZS23-013) – Ward 5

The subject site is approximately 1,868 square metres in size and located on the west side of Janefield Avenue. Two single detached dwellings currently exist on the site.

A Zoning Bylaw Amendment is proposed to permit four semi-detached dwelling units.

The Planner to contact for this application:
Eric Rempel
Development Planner
[email protected]
519-837-5616 ext. 2617

Speak at the meeting or provide written comments

If you wish to speak to City Council about the application you may register as a delegation at guelph.ca/delegations or by contacting the City Clerk’s Office at 519-837-5603 or email [email protected] no later than Friday April 5, 2024 at 10 a.m.  When your registration is received, a confirmation message and instructions for participating in the hybrid public meeting will be provided. Instructions will also be provided during the meeting to ensure that those watching online and attending in-person will be given the opportunity to speak.

If you prefer to comment in writing, please send your written comments to the City Clerk’s Office no later than Friday April 5, 2024 at 10 a.m.

Important information about making a submission

If a person or public body does not make oral or written submissions at a public meeting of Guelph City Council before the bylaw is passed, the person or public body:

  • is not entitled to appeal the decision of Guelph City Council to the Ontario Land Tribunal; or
  • may not be added as a party to the hearing of an appeal before the Ontario Land Tribunal unless, in the opinion of the Tribunal, there are reasonable grounds to do so.

For more information

Planning documents and background material for these applications are available online at guelph.ca/development. Alternate document formats are available upon request.

The staff report will be available at noon on Friday, March 29, 2024 at guelph.ca/development.

Contact the City Clerk’s Office

If you would like to be notified of City Council’s decision with respect to a planning application, you must make a written request to:

Stephen O’Brien, City Clerk
City of Guelph
1 Carden Street, Guelph ON N1H 3A1
519-837-5603 or TTY 519-826-9771
Email [email protected]

Invasive species removals coming to parks and natural areas starting this spring

Guelph, Ont., March 13, 2024 – We’re working to improve ecological health in our parks and natural areas by removing invasive plant species like buckthorn, Japanese knotweed, dog strangling vine and phragmites australis (also called common weed). Invasive species crowd out native species, threaten ecological integrity of parks and natural areas, and reduce habitat for wildlife. Removing both invasive species before they establish and spread protects our parks and natural areas. 

Removals take place between the months of March to November using mechanical and herbicide methods. The work for each site takes three to five days to complete, weather permitting, and signs will be installed in each location during the treatment.  

Please stay out of work areas when signs are present 

Both Garlon™ and Roundup WeatherPro® have a low exposure risk to people and animals when used correctly. During removals, park facilities and most trails will remain open, however, we ask that you avoid marked work areas until signs are removed. 

Invasive species removal by type and location 

Japanese knotweed  

  • Royal Recreational Trail near Edinburgh Road South, September-October  
  • Rapids Side Trail, September-October  
  • James Street Trail, September-October 
  • Speed River Trail near Heritage Park, September-October 
  • Westminster Woods Trail entrance near Beaver Meadows Drive, September-October 
  • Eramosa River Trail, September-October 
  • Heritage Park, September-October  
  • Silvercreek Trail, September-October   
  • Spurline Trail, September-October 
  • Yewholme Park and natural area, September-October 
  • Northumberland Park, September-October 
  • Mico Valeriote Park, September-October 
  • Downtown Trail near Ann Street and Earl Street, September-October 
  • Paisley and Edinburgh Park and natural area, September-October 
  • River Run Centre property, September-October 
  • York Road easement to Smith Avenue, September-October  

Dog strangling vine 

  • Goldie Park, April-September 
  • Hadati Creek Trails, April-September 
  • Eramosa River Trail natural areas, April-September 
  • Howitt Park, April-September  
  • Dunhill Park Trail, April-September  
  • Pineridge Trail, April-September 
  • Suffolk Park, April-September  

Buckthorn 

  • Speed River Trail natural area entrance off Ingram Drive, March-November 
  • Eramosa River Trail natural areas, March-November 
  • Crane Park, March-November 
  • Joseph Wolfond Park West, March-November 
  • Clair Road natural restoration area, March-November 
  • Centennial Park, March-November 
  • Preservation Park, March-November 
  • Speed River between McCrae Boulevard and Hanlon Parkway, April – November   
  • Guelph Street easement, March-November 
  • Creighton natural area, March-November 
  • Downey and Niska stormwater management pond, March-November 
  • Pineridge Trail, April-September 
  • University Village, March-November 

Phragmites 

  • Gosling Gardens natural area, August-September 
  • Harts Lane West, August-September 
  • Teal Drive South natural area, August-September 
  • Downey and Niska stormwater management pond, August-September 
  • Severn Drive stormwater management pond, August-September 
  • Eastview Park, August-September 
  • Grange Road Park natural area, August-September 
  • Cityview stormwater management pond, August-September 
  • Hanlon Business Park natural area, August-September 
  • Starwood Drive stormwater management pond, August-September 
  • Summit Ridge stormwater management pond, August-September 
  • Watson and Wason stormwater management pond, August-September 
  • Clair Road, August-September 
  • Maltby Road, August-September 

Wild Parsnip 

  • Westminster Woods Park, April-September 

Read more about how and why we remove invasive species from parks and natural areas on Guelph.ca. 

Woodlot management and other invasive species 

Select woodlots that were most significantly impacted by the loss of Ash trees due to Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) will undergo full invasive species removal, which may include garlic mustard, periwinkle, goutweed, burdock, greater celandine, lily of the valley, autumn olive, black locust, invasive honeysuckle, Norway maple and Manitoba Maple. To learn more about the removal of EAB please refer to Guelph’s EAB plan 

Woodlot management   

  • Marksam Park, April-September 
  • Mitchell Woods, April-September 
  • Hadati Creek Trail near Chesterton Lane to -Grange Road, April-September 
  • Hadati Creek Trail near Schroder Crescent to -Cityview Drive, April-September 
  • Margaret Greene Woodlot, April-September 
  • Sugartree Woodlot, April-September 
  • Elmira Park Woodlot, April-September 
  • Ridgeway/Greenway Woodlot, April-September 

For more information 

519-837-5626 
[email protected]  

Noise exemption notice: Junction Craft Beer Fest granted noise exemption from June 21-22

The City has granted Fixed Gear Brewing an exemption from the City’s Noise Control Bylaw on June 21-22, 2024 from 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm for the Junction Craft Beer Fest at 7 Edinburgh Road South, Guelph, ON. The exemption allows for noise from live music and crowds.

If you are impacted by this exemption, you can request that Council review the approval of the noise exemption. Please submit your request by February 21, 2024, by emailing [email protected] or calling 519-822-1260 extension 2423.

For more information

Dustin Gronc, Manager
Corporate and Community Safety, Operations
City of Guelph
519-822-1260 extension 3475
[email protected]

City to commence construction on the new Downey well and pumphouse access laneway

Notice Date: Thursday, March 7

The City of Guelph will begin constructing a new laneway to access Downey well and pumphouse for operation and maintenance. Construction is expected to start on Friday, March 15, and last until the Fall, weather permitting.

The new laneway will go from the Niska Road and Downey Road intersection to the Downey well and pumphouse. This work will involve tree removals, signal modification at the Niska/Downey intersection, and the construction of an unpaved (gravel) laneway.

About the project

Downey well is one of the major drinking water supply sources for the City. The current path to the Downey well and pumphouse is located at the intersection of Downey Road and Woodland Glen Drive. The bridge (Structure 118 in Figure 1 below) is in poor condition. Without proper maintenance, the City risks losing this important drinking water source, which will impact its ability to meet the community’s water demand. To learn more about this project, visit the project page on guelph.ca.

Map of planned construction area – Figure 1

Map of construction area for the Downey well project

Figure 1: Existing site layout and new proposed laneway for Downey well access and maintenance

Construction timeline:

  • Construction contract awarded March 2024.
  • Tree removal to begin in March.
    Note: We’ve identified thirty-four trees that need to be removed as part of this work. To compensate for the removal of these trees, the City will plant 122 new trees as per the Tree Bylaw and relevant policies.
  • New laneway construction and restoration will begin on April 12 and is expected to last until August 30.

Construction will take place between normal working hours (Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.)

Traffic signal at Niska Rd and Downey Rd

The City is working to modify the traffic signal at the Niska/Downey intersection. The objective is to ensure safe access to the new laneway. The City wants to maintain a safe and smooth flow for motor vehicles and pedestrians in the area.

Sidewalk and Road Closure

Figure 2 shows the potential traffic and pedestrian disruption area. Short duration lane and sidewalk closures may be required during construction for public safety. The City will put up proper lane and sidewalk closure signs to direct traffic and pedestrians away from construction activities.

An image with an illustration showing how traffic may be interrupted

Figure 2: Possible traffic and pedestrian disruption area

More Information

The City appreciates your patience, understanding and cooperation during this important construction project. Any updates will be posted on guelph.ca/construction.

For more Information

For more information about the project, or if you require this document to be provided in an alternative format as per the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (2005), please contact:

Rizwan Younis, Project Manager
Water Services
City of Guelph
226 332-1702
[email protected]

 

Update: York Road improvements – Stage 2

Brockville Avenue to Victoria Road

About the York Road improvements project

The City is replacing the aging water and sewer pipes along York Road between Stevenson Street and Victoria Road.

This year, the underground water and sewer pipes, curbs, gutters, and sidewalks will be replaced from Brockville Avenue to Victoria Road South.

Construction is expected to start April 2, weather permitting. To accommodate this work, York Road will be closed from Brockville Avenue to Victoria Road South in both directions with limited local access until winter 2024.

You’re invited to an in-person open house

Please join us in person to talk with City staff and learn more about this project.
Date: Tuesday, March 19
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Guelph City Hall, 1 Carden Street, Marg MacKinnon Community Room

Come ready to ask and get answers to any questions you may have about this project, including traffic impacts, property access, or other construction-related concerns.

Have your say

Can’t attend the open house in person? No problem – check out the City’s engagement page: haveyoursay.guelph.ca/york-road-phase-three

On the project page, you can view project information including maps and schedules, and  ask questions between February 20 and April 2.  We’ll post answers within five business days directly on the Have Your Say page.

Map of planned construction area – Figure 1

map of proposed construction area

Stay informed

The City of Guelph appreciates your patience and understanding as we complete this important infrastructure project. For more information about this project, including updates, visit guelph.ca/living/construction-projects/york-road-reconstruction/

For more information

For more information about the project, or if you require this document to be provided in an alternative format as per the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (2005), please contact:

Construction information:
Samy Mohamed, C.E.T., PMP, Contract Administrator
Engineering and Transportation Services
City of Guelph
519-822-1260 extension 3960
[email protected]

Project information:
Steven Di Pietro, Project Engineer
Engineering and Transportation Services
City of Guelph
519-822-1260 extension 2348
[email protected]

We’re revitalizing Drew Park and you can help!

Share what you want to see in the park to help shape initial design options by March 31

Guelph, Ont., March 5, 2024—Drew Park, located at 29 Drew Street, is getting revitalized! We’re replacing the playground equipment and reworking the entire park space—and you can help by sharing your ideas. The first engagement opportunity to guide park design options is open on Have Your Say until March 31. This information will be used to prepare two park designs that we’ll bring back to the community in the summer to gather additional feedback. The additional feedback will be used to create a final design and plans for construction, which will be shared in the fall of 2024. Construction would be completed through 2025, pending final budget approval.

Share your dream Drew Park. We’d like to know things like:

  • How you currently use the park,
  • What you like best about the park as it is now,
  • What new park and playground features you’d like to see, and
  • Specific accessibility features you would like to see included in the new design.

Be sure to visit Have Your Say to share your thoughts by March 31.

About Drew Park

Drew Park is a .29 hectare (.72 acre) neighborhood park located at 29 Drew Street in the East Willow neighbourhood. The park was dedicated to the memory of George Alexander Drew who, among many other things, was the City’s youngest mayor at age 30. The park currently features a playground, two basketball nets, bench seating, large unprogrammed grass areas and many mature trees. Lots of the park elements are outdated and have reached the end of their serviceable life, so they’re ready for replacement. By letting us know what you love about Drew Park, we can preserve what makes it special while making it even better.

Other playground replacements

The Drew Park revitalization project is separate from the City’s annual playground lifecycle replacement projects that focus exclusively on playground equipment. Three playgrounds are on track for replacement in 2025, Colonial Drive Park, Holland Crescent Park and Highview Park. The latest project updates can be found on the Playground Replacements 2024 Have Your Say page.

For more information

Jude Gaboury, Project Manager
Park and Trail Development, Parks
City of Guelph
519-822-1260 extension 4121
[email protected]

Spring into action with Guelph recreation programs

Spring and summer program schedule now available, registration opens March 20

Guelph, Ont., February 28, 2024 – Starting March 20 at 7:30 a.m., you can register for recreation programs running between April and September three ways:

  • online at recenroll.ca
  • by phone at 519-837-5699 from 7:30 a.m. until 10 p.m.
  • in person at West End Community Centre, Victoria Road Recreation Centre, and Evergreen Seniors Community Centre from 7:30 a.m. until 10 p.m.

After registration opening day, you can continue to register online any time, and by phone or in-person during regular operating hours, visible by facility at guelph.ca/rec-facilities.

Spring and summer programs include swimming, sports and leisure activities. Our offerings include fitness programs for all abilities, like:

  • Knockout Parkinson’s, a non-contact boxing program designed for individuals living with Parkinson’s,
  • Fitness Friends, a program for children of all abilities that focuses on balance, awareness and body coordination, and
  • Beat Blast Fitness, a high-intensity workout program designed to make participants sweat.

We also have a range of new and returning drop-in programs running throughout the spring and summer, like Run.Jump.Play, Preschool Drop-in and Youth Hang Out Hub.

Program schedules are live on RecEnroll so you can plan before registration opens.

Online registration is quick and easy

To make registering online even easier, you can add your credit card information to your RecEnroll account ahead of time. Here’s how:

  • Login to your account on recenroll.ca.
  • Choose the family member who will be adding their card information.
  • On the Family Member Detail page, scroll down to the Finance Info section and click/tap the “New” button.
  • In the form that opens, enter the card information.
  • Click/tap the “Save” button.

Now you’re ready to enrol in recreation programs with just a few clicks.

Work with us this summer

We’re looking for individuals who enjoy working with children, creating and participating in recreational activities and want to be part of a team to make summer fun for children and families in Guelph. We’re hiring for summer and inclusion camp counsellors, team leads, facilitators and program staff, with postings open until May 20. We’re also recruiting for aquatics positions, including swim instructor guards and assistant instructors. Find all our job postings and apply online at guelph.ca/careers.

Access to recreation for all

Everyone should have the opportunity to participate in recreation programs. In partnership with the Children’s Foundation of Guelph and Wellington, the Free to Grow program provides grants to low-income families to help children and youth under 18 participate in recreation programs. For those over 18, the City’s Fee Assistance in Recreation (FAIR) program provides adults and seniors on a limited income with subsidies for recreation programs, passes, and other memberships. To learn more about these fee assistance options and to apply visit guelph.ca/support-services, call 519-837-5699, or visit any of our community centres.

Inclusion in recreation programs for people with a disability

Did you know that our recreation programs offer inclusion support so people of all abilities can participate? Inclusion support is available for people with a disability who require extra support to participate in programs or camps. This service is provided at no additional cost.

For more information

[email protected]
519-837-5699
TTY 519-826-9771

Notice of passing of designation bylaw

In the matter of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter 0.18 in the City of Guelph, in the Province of Ontario.

Take notice that the Council of the Corporation of the City of Guelph has passed the following bylaws to designate portions of various properties as being of cultural heritage value or interest under section 29, Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter 0.18:

By-law Number (2024)-20893 to designate portions of the property known as 331 Clair Road East dated February 13, 2024.

By-law Number (2024)-20901 to designate portions of the property known as 2187 Gordon Street dated February 13, 2024.

As per Section 29 (Subsection 11) of Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act, any person who objects to the bylaw may appeal to the Ontario Land Tribunal by giving the Tribunal and the City Clerk (within 30 days after the date the notice of the bylaw passing is published) a notice of appeal setting out the objection to the bylaw and the reasons in support of the objection accompanied by the fee charged by the Tribunal. Notices of appeal to the bylaw must be received by registered mail or delivered to the Clerk of the City of Guelph before 4 p.m. on March 22, 2024.

For more information, contact:

Jack Mallon, Heritage Planner
[email protected]
519-822-1260 extension 3872

Stephen Robinson, Senior Heritage Planner
[email protected]
519-822-1260 extension 2496

Stephen O’Brien, City Clerk
City Hall, 1 Carden St.
Guelph, ON N1H 3A1

February 22, 2024

Notice of passed bylaw amendments

Guelph City Council passed the following bylaws on February 13, 2024:

For more information about any of the above contact Planning Services at 519-837-5616 or [email protected]. If you would like to appeal any of the bylaws above, you must file a Notice of Appeal with the City Clerk before 4:00 p.m. on March 12, 2024, by contacting the Clerk’s Office at 519-837-5603 or [email protected].

Open house: Let’s talk gentle density housing

Guelph, Ont., February 16, 2024 – We’re inviting Guelph residents to learn about various options to increase housing density gently and thoughtfully in Guelph and provide feedback at our public open house on Thursday, February 29.

We want to hear from you about how to best plan for four-unit housing types in Guelph.  We’re interested in hearing your thoughts on how we can enable four-unit housing in the City that will benefit residential neighbourhoods with specific consideration for parking, landscaping and building form requirements.

Visit the open house

Date: Thursday, February 29
Time: 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Location: Marg Mackinnon Room, City Hall, 1 Carden Street, Guelph, Ontario

For questions or if you require accommodations, please contact [email protected] or call 519-822-1260 extension 3982.

What is gentle density?

Gentle density is a type of housing that is of similar scale to townhouses, row houses, and triplexes. It’s one way to increase housing supply with minimal impact on existing communities.

We’ve committed to allowing four-unit gentle density in all low-density residential zones throughout Guelph (subject to the City’s ability to service these types of units) to help increase housing supply and affordability while also providing a range of housing types. We’re doing this work under the Gentle Density Project, which will inform the recommendations for the 2024 Housing Affordability Strategy.

How this will help increase housing in Guelph

In April, City staff will bring forward a series of proposed changes to the Zoning bylaw to allow four units on a residential lot to a public meeting for consideration. Staff are expected to present a recommendation to Council on these changes in June

This project is directly connected to the City’s Housing Accelerator Fund Action Plan and contributes to the initiative of “Encouraging Missing Middle Units in Existing Neighbourhoods.”

To learn more about Guelph’s efforts to increase housing supply and affordability in our community, visit the Housing in Guelph story map.

For more information

Cushla Matthews, Development Advisor
Policy Planning, Planning and Building Services
City of Guelph
519-822-1260 extension 3982
[email protected]

Update: York Road improvements– Stage 2 Brockville Avenue to Victoria Road

About the York Road improvements project

The City is replacing the aging water and sewer pipes along York Road between Stevenson Street and Victoria Road.

This year, the underground water and sewer pipes, curbs, gutters, and sidewalks will be replaced from Brockville Avenue to Victoria Road South.

Construction is expected to start April 2, weather permitting. To accommodate this work, York Road will be closed from Brockville Avenue to Victoria Road South in both directions with limited local access until late-fall 2024.

Businesses in the area are invited to an in-person open house

Please join us in person to talk with City staff and learn more about this project.

Date: Monday, February 26
Time: 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: Guelph City Hall, 1 Carden Street, Marg MacKinnon Community Room

Come ready to ask and get answers to any questions you may have about this project, including traffic impacts, property access, or other construction-related concerns.

Have your say

Can’t attend the open house in person? No problem – check out the City’s engagement page:

On the project page, you can view project information, including maps and schedules, and  ask questions between February 20 and March 15.  We’ll post answers within five business days directly on the Have Your Say page.

Map of planned construction area – Figure 1

Map of planned construction area

Stay informed

The City of Guelph appreciates your patience and understanding as we complete this important infrastructure project. For more information about this project, including updates, visit guelph.ca/living/construction-projects/york-road-reconstruction/

For more information

For more information about the project, or if you require this document to be provided in an alternative format as per the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (2005), please contact:

Construction information:
Samy Mohamed, C.E.T., PMP, Contract Administrator
Engineering and Transportation Services
City of Guelph
519-822-1260 extension 3960
[email protected]

Project information:
Steven Di Pietro, P. Eng, Project Engineer
Engineering and Transportation Services
City of Guelph
519-822-1260 extension 2348
[email protected]

New community garden proposed for Skov Park

Have your say by February 28

February 7, 2024 – A community garden has been proposed for Skov Park, located near the intersection of Eramosa Road and Victoria Road. There are two options being considered for the garden’s layout and location.

What is a community garden?

Community gardens are vibrant spaces that not only offer an opportunity for residents to engage in providing a local food source, but also foster a sense of community and connection with nature. They also promote biodiversity by providing additional habitat for wildlife like insects and birds. The Skov Park community garden would be used by volunteers to grow and harvest vegetables, culinary herbs, pollinator-friendly plants and may include some small fruiting shrubs.

 We want your feedback

Share your thoughts about the proposal on haveyoursay.guelph.ca/community-gardens by February 28.

Provide feedback on:

  • How you feel about the proposed community garden
  • Proposed locations for the garden
  • Would you participate in a community garden
  • Other feedback

We’ll use your feedback along with experiences from other Guelph community gardens to help decide if the proposed garden will benefit users.

About Guelph’s community gardens

The City’s community garden program encourages volunteers to transform small areas in City parks into vibrant vegetable, fruit, and pollinator gardens. The goal is not only to provide a local food source, but also to create pockets of habitat for wildlife such as pollinator insects and some species of birds. To learn more about the Community Gardens program, or to find a location near you, visit guelph.ca/communitygardens

For more information

Miranda Burton
Community Stewardship Coordinator
Forestry and Sustainable Landscapes, Parks
City of Guelph
[email protected]

Or

Dave Beaton
Program Manager
Forestry and Sustainable Landscapes
City of Guelph
519-822-1260 extension 2761
[email protected]

Three City of Guelph playgrounds on track for replacement in 2025

Share your vision to help guide playground designs by March 3

Guelph, Ont., February 6, 2024—We want your input on three City of Guelph playgrounds scheduled for replacement in 2025: Colonial Drive Park, Holland Crescent Park and Highview Park.

Tell us your neighbourhood playground vision. We’d like to know:

  • What kind of equipment you would like to see,
  • What you like about the existing playgrounds, and
  • The specific accessibility features you would like to see included in the new design.

This first phase of engagement is open on Have Your Say until March 3. We’ll take your feedback to prepare two design options for each playground and come back in the spring for phase two, where we’ll share the designs for the neighbourhood to vote on. Once the designs for each playground are decided, the projects will be tendered out and construction will take place in 2025. More details on construction timelines will be shared closer to the construction start date.

About the playground replacement process

Each year, budget permitting, we undertake several playground lifecycle replacement projects. When we replace play equipment, we consider community input, available budget, maintenance needs and how to make the play equipment fun for everyone. Your participation helps us choose the right play equipment for your neighbourhood.

Playgrounds are replaced approximately every 20 years, pending Council approval. If your local playground isn’t on our list, chances are it’s not quite time for it to be replaced.

For more information

Jude Gaboury, Project Manager
Park and Trail Development, Parks
City of Guelph
519-822-1260 extension 4121
[email protected]

City of Guelph asks businesses to support waste reduction strategy

In 2022, Guelph Council approved a single-use items bylaw that banned plastic shopping bags and polystyrene foam containers and cups. At that time, Council also asked us to collect feedback from the community about paying fees for disposable cups and reusable bags. We appreciated the community feedback and having heard that some community members supported paying fees, we’re focusing on changes businesses and customers can make to reduce the amount of single-use item waste they generate.  

We’re asking local food-service businesses to provide feedback on how they can support our waste reduction strategy. Specifically, how easy, or difficult it would be for businesses to: 

  • accept a customer’s clean reusable cup and container, 
  • offer in-restaurant dishware for dine-in drinks and food, 
  • offer foodware accessories (e.g., cutlery, stir sticks, condiments) by request or at self-serve stations only, and  
  • use recycled content in paper and reusable bags.  

Have your say 

Businesses are invited to share their thoughts and feedback online at haveyoursay.guelph.ca 

Survey timeline: February 5 – 29  

In February, City staff will visit some local businesses to talk about the survey and collect feedback in person. 

About the waste reduction strategy 

We know our community wants actual waste reduction and elimination, not just substitution, and they want to balance accessibility with environmental outcomes. The focus of the single-use items reduction strategy is to reduce waste in general, reduce waste sent to the landfill, and encourage businesses, consumers and residents take more environmentally conscious actions. 

You can learn more about the City’s single-use items reduction strategy at guelph.ca/singleuseitems  

For more information 

Nicole Davison, Waste Resource Policy Analyst, 
Environmental Services
Infrastructure, Development and Enterprise Services
519-822-1260 extension 2451
[email protected] 

Notice of passing municipal-wide development charges bylaw

Take notice that the Council of the City of Guelph passed municipal-wide development charges Bylaws No. (2024) – 20866 to (2024) – 20880 on January 16, 2024 under section 2 (1) of the Development Charges Act, 1997, S.O., 1997 c. 27, as amended;

And take notice that any person or organization may appeal to the Ontario Land Tribunal under section 14 of the Act, in respect of the development charges by-law, by filing with the Clerk of the City of Guelph on or before February 25, 2024 a notice of appeal setting out the objection to the by-law and the reasons supporting the objection.

The development charges imposed by the by-laws come into effect on March 2, 2024. These are the calculated rates prior to incorporating the effect of the mandatory 20% discount. The charges are as follows:

Service/class of service Residential Non-residential
Single and semi-detached dwelling Multiples Apartments – 2 bedrooms + Apartments – studio and 1 bedroom Special care / special dwelling units (per sq. ft. of Gross Floor Area)
Services related to a highway  $19,685  $14,175  $11,784  $8,636  $6,367 $10.04
Public works  $1,993  $1,435  $1,193  $874  $645 $1.01
Transit services  $3,155  $2,272  $1,889  $1,384  $1,020 $1.55
Fire protection services  $263  $189  $157  $115  $85 $0.13
Policing services  $1,449  $1,043  $867  $636  $469 $0.74
Parks and recreation services  $12,912  $9,298  $7,730  $5,664  $4,176 $0.78
Library services  $1,591  $1,146  $952  $698  $515 $0.10
Long-term care services  $95  $68  $57  $42  $31 $0.01
Public health services  $391  $282  $234  $172  $126 $0.05
Ambulance services  $407  $293  $244  $179  $132 $0.05
Waste diversion services  $986  $710  $590  $433  $319 $0.15
Stormwater services  $757  $545  $453  $332  $245 $0.39
Wastewater services  $9,211  $6,633  $5,514  $4,041  $2,979 $4.70
Water services  $11,918  $8,582  $7,135  $5,228  $3,855 $6.08
Grand total  $64,813  $46,671  $38,799  $28,434  $20,964 $25.78

No key map has been provided as the by-law applies to all lands located within the City of Guelph.

A copy of the complete by-law is available for examination at the City of Guelph offices, 1 Carden Street Guelph, ON N1H 3A1 during regular business hours (weekdays from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM) excluding statutory holidays.

Dated at the City of Guelph offices, Guelph, Ontario, January 31, 2024.

Stephen O’Brien
Municipal Clerk

 

Public Space Use bylaw: special Council meeting February 14

Guelph, Ont., February 1, 2024 – On January 16, Guelph City Council unanimously directed City staff to develop a Public Space Use bylaw. The draft bylaw, which is now posted publicly, will be discussed and deliberated by Council at a special Council meeting on February 14. Council will vote on bylaw amendments at this meeting.

Public Space Use bylaw: special Council meeting

Wednesday, February 14
10 a.m.
Council Chambers, Guelph City Hall, 1 Carden Street
Live stream

The goal of the bylaw is to:

  • help make public spaces owned or operated by the City safer for all members of our Guelph community, and
  • ensure that spaces are being used for intended purposes.

While recognizing that Guelph still lacks sufficient permanent shelter space for unsheltered individuals, we are aiming to accommodate the needs of affected individuals in our community so they too can live more safely and with dignity.

Interested community members are welcome to read the draft bylaw and agenda packet and are encouraged to attend the meeting in person or watch the live stream.

Members of the public, community partners, social service agencies and businesses can register to delegate at the February 14 special council meeting in person, virtually, by phone or by sharing correspondence in advance. The deadline to register or share correspondence is February 12 at 10 a.m.

Feedback from the community is crucial in helping to shape the bylaw as it is being considered by Council. Adoption of the bylaw is expected at the February 27 City Council meeting.

For more information

Colleen Clack-Bush
Deputy Chief Administrative Officer, Public Services
City of Guelph
519-822-1260, extension 2588
[email protected]

Convenient new property tax portal now available

Check your property tax info, go paperless and more!

Guelph, Ont., January 31, 2024 – Property owners in Guelph have a convenient new way to see their property tax information online: the property tax portal. Using the new portal will help property owners easily and securely check their property tax information, get and review property tax bills electronically, and sign up for and manage pre-authorized payments. Information about the portal will also be included with interim tax bills sent in early February.

Checking your information and getting your tax bills electronically isn’t just convenient—going paperless is also good for both the environment and for reducing clutter in your home. Visit guelph.ca/tax to learn how to get started with the property tax portal.

Resources

For more information

James Krauter, Manager
Finance – Taxation and Revenue
519-822-1260, extension 2334
[email protected]

 

Open house: Downtown Guelph Heritage Conservation District Study on February 20

Help shape a potential heritage conservation district in the downtown core

As part of the Downtown Guelph Heritage Conservation District study, we are hosting an open house on February 20 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the Marg Mackinnon Room at City Hall. Join us to provide feedback, ask questions, and learn about the study findings. Can’t make it? You can share your feedback online at https://www.haveyoursay.guelph.ca/downtown-district.

The study is nearing completion, and it recommends that Council proceed to establish a heritage conservation district in downtown Guelph. Members of the project team will be sharing findings at multiple stations located within the Marg Mackinnon Room and will be available to answer your questions and collect feedback. Specifically, the project team is looking to determine whether there is public support for the creation of a heritage conservation district in downtown Guelph, what the goals and objectives of this district should be, and the desired focus for an associated district plan.

Date:           Tuesday, February 20

Time:           4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Doors open at 4:30 p.m., drop in at any time to interact with the project team and provide feedback

Location:      Marg Mackinnon Room, City Hall, 1 Carden Street, Guelph, Ontario

For questions or if you require accommodations please contact [email protected], or call 519-822-1260 extension 2519.

About the study

In order to protect key cultural heritage resources, the City is completing this study to determine the suitability of a heritage conservation district in the commercial core of downtown Guelph.

To learn more about the project, visit https://guelph.ca/city-hall/planning-and-development/community-plans-studies/heritage-conservation/downtown-guelph-heritage-conservation-district-study/#community-engagement

For more Information

Elyssa Pompa, Policy Planner II,
Planning and Building Services
Infrastructure, Development and Environment
519-822-1260 extension 2519
[email protected]

Notice of passed bylaw amendments

Guelph City Council passed the following bylaws on January 16, 2024:

For more information about any of the above contact Planning Services at 519-837-5616 or [email protected]. If you would like to appeal any of the bylaws above, you must file a Notice of Appeal with the City Clerk before 4:00 p.m. on February 13, 2024, by contacting the Clerk’s Office at 519-837-5603 or [email protected].

Notice of passing of designation bylaw

In the matter of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter 0.18 in the City of Guelph, in the Province of Ontario.

Take notice that the Council of the Corporation of the City of Guelph has passed By-law Number (2024)-20891 dated January 16, 2024 to designate portions of the property known as 131 Ontario Street as being of cultural heritage value or interest under Part IV, Sec. 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter 0.18.

Take notice that the Council of the Corporation of the City of Guelph has passed By-law Number (2024)-20892 dated January 16, 2024 to designate portions of the property known as 49 Metcalfe Street as being of cultural heritage value or interest under Part IV, Sec. 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter 0.18.

As per Section 29 (Subsection 11) of Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act, any person who objects to the bylaw may appeal to the Ontario Land Tribunal by giving the Tribunal and the City Clerk (within 30 days after the date the notice of the bylaw passing is published) a notice of appeal setting out the objection to the bylaw and the reasons in support of the objection accompanied by the fee charged by the Tribunal. Notices of appeal to the bylaw must be received by registered mail or delivered to the Clerk of the City of Guelph before 4 p.m. on February 23, 2024.

For more information

Jack Mallon, Heritage Planner
[email protected]
519-822-1260 extension 3872

New for 2024: Summer camp registration day is February 14

Camp schedule now available on RecEnroll

Guelph, Ont., January 24, 2024 – Starting February 14 at 7:30 a.m., you can register kids for City summer camps three ways:

  • online at recenroll.ca
  • by phone at 519-837-5699 from 7:30 a.m. until 10 p.m.
  • in person at West End Community Centre, Victoria Road Recreation Centre, and Evergreen Seniors Community Centre from 7:30 a.m. until 10 p.m.

Following summer camp registration day, you can continue to register online any time, and by phone or in-person during regular operating hours, visible by facility at guelph.ca/rec-facilities.

This year, summer camp registration and spring/summer program registration are separate to provide an improved registration experience for everyone. Sign kids up for summer camps starting February 14, and register for spring and summer programs starting March 20.

City summer camps

City of Guelph summer camps are the perfect choice for your child’s next adventure. Our summer camps run from July 2 to August 30, with options for kids aged 4–6 and 5–12 and are packed with thrilling games, sports, crafts and activities that cater to each age group.

Summer camp options this year include Pottery Camp, Outdoor Adventure Camp, Claymation & Lego Animation Camp and many more. Check out all our 2024 summer camp offerings on RecEnroll and learn more about the philosophy behind our camp programs on our website at guelph.ca/camp.

Online registration is quick and easy

To make registering online even easier, you can add your credit card information to your RecEnroll account ahead of time. Here’s how:

  • Login to your account on recenroll.ca.
  • Choose the family member who will be adding their card information.
  • On the Family Member Detail page, scroll down to the Finance Info section and click/tap the “New” button.
  • In the form that opens, enter the card information.
  • Click/tap the “Save” button.

Now you’re ready to enrol in camps with just a few clicks.

Access to recreation for all

Everyone should have the opportunity to participate in recreation programs, including summer camps. In partnership with the Children’s Foundation of Guelph and Wellington, the Free to Grow program provides grants to low-income families to help children and youth under 18 participate in recreation programs. For those over 18, the City’s Fee Assistance in Recreation (FAIR) program provides adults and seniors on a limited income with subsidies for recreation programs, passes, and other memberships. To learn more about these fee assistance options and to apply visit guelph.ca/support-services, call 519-837-5699, or visit any of our community centres.

Inclusion in recreation programs for people with a disability

Did you know that our recreation programs offer inclusion supports so people of all abilities can participate? Inclusion support is available for people with a disability who require extra support to participate in programs or camps. This service is provided at no additional cost.

We’ve adapted recreation programs with specialized programming to meet a variety of needs including Active Start for kids ages four to seven and FUNdamentals for kids ages seven to 12. We’re also offering our usual Waves with Friends and Friday Friends social groups.

For more information

guelph.ca/camp
[email protected]
519-837-5699

See the final splash pad design for Margaret Greene Park

Construction planned for summer 2024

Guelph, Ont., January 24, 2024 – The community has spoken! Margaret Greene Park is going even greener with the addition of a naturalthemed splash pad design, which was the preferred option selected by Guelph residents.

Splash pad design features 

We considered all of the comments submitted by the community and the Accessibility Advisory Committee to inform the final concept design for the splash pad, which includes: 

  • A large shade structure in a natural leaf theme 
  • Two accessible paths from the parking lot and one to the existing playground 
  • A variety of seating options including accessible picnic–style tables 
  • A seat wall near the splash zone to allow inclusive interaction with the water 
  • A variety of highly-visible water features 

The design team and staff are working on finalizing the detailed splash pad design. Construction is currently planned for summer 2024. 

Resources

Margaret Greene splash pad engagement summary
haveyoursay.guelph.ca

For more information

Christina Vannelli, OALA, CSLA, Park Planner
Parks, Public Services
City of Guelph
519-822-1260 ex. 2431
[email protected]

 

 

Should Guelph work to reduce excessive lighting at night with a Dark Sky bylaw?

Join the conversation and have your say online by February 11

Guelph, Ont., January 18, 2024 – Fill out our online survey by February 11 to let us know whether Guelph should address excessive lighting at night with a Dark Sky bylaw, and what considerations need to be made if a bylaw is developed.

In November 2023 we held two in-person workshops to get community feedback on whether Guelph should implement a Dark Sky bylaw. We had great conversations and, as we said at the time, we’re now back to collect more community input with an online survey. Head to haveyoursay.guelph.ca/dark-sky to learn more about the process, explore reasons for reducing excessive lighting at night and share your ideas on the development and enforcement of a possible Dark Sky bylaw.

After the survey closes, we’ll share a report summarizing what we learned from all the community input and whether a bylaw will be developed. If one is prepared, there will be more chances for the community to comment on the draft bylaw before it’s presented to Council for adoption.

Why a dark sky?

A Dark Sky bylaw would be a tool to reduce light pollution in Guelph. Light pollution is considered the excessive or inappropriate use of outdoor artificial light that alters the natural patterns of light and dark in ecosystems. Lowering the amount of light pollution in an area has measurable benefits for birds, bugs, bats, plants and people.

By sharing your thoughts, you’ll be helping determine if a Dark Sky bylaw is something the community wants and what key considerations are needed if a bylaw is developed.

For more information

Ashley Kassian, Program Manager
Operations Administration, Public Services
City of Guelph
519-822-1260 extension 3420
[email protected]

York-Elizabeth Land Use Study Official Plan Amendment

Notice of public meeting and decision meeting of Council

In accordance with section 17 and 21 of the Planning Act, a joint public meeting and decision meeting of City Council will be held to consider the proposed Official Plan Amendment.

Statutory public meeting and decision meeting
Tuesday, February 13
6 p.m.

This is a hybrid City Council meeting that can be watched online at guelph.ca/live or in-person in Council Chambers, 1 Carden Street, Guelph.

The purpose of the joint public meeting and decision meeting is to share information about the amendment, consider public comments, and City staff will provide a recommendation to Council on the proposed Official Plan Amendment.

Purpose and effect of the Official Plan Amendment

The proposed Official Plan Amendment is being introduced to bring the Council-approved land use changes for the York-Elizabeth Land Use Study Area into effect for properties in that area of Victoria Road and Elizabeth Street. Land use changes for the York-Elizabeth Land Use Study Area along York Road were already amended in OPA 80.

Subject lands

The proposed OPA applies to 264-300 Elizabeth Street, 23 Garibaldi Street, 44 Johnston Street, 60 Johnston Street, 137-147 Stevenson Street South, 157 Stevenson Street South, 37 Empire Street, 201-207 Alice Street and 48-56 Victoria Road South.

Official Plan Amendment No. 93 (OPA 93)

Format of the Amendment

This section of the Amendment sets out additions and changes to the text and mapping in the Official Plan. Sections of the Official Plan that are proposed to be added or changed are referred to as “ITEMS” in the following description. Text that is proposed to be amended is illustrated by various font types (e.g. struck-out is to be deleted and bold text is to be added). Unchanged text represents existing Official Plan policy that is being carried forward that has been included for context and does not constitute part of Amendment 93. New sections that are proposed to be added to the Official Plan are shown in standard font type with titles appearing in bold. Italicized font indicates defined terms or the name of a provincial act or title of a document.

Implementation and Interpretation

The implementation of this amendment shall be in accordance with the provisions of the Planning Act. The further implementation and associated interpretation of this amendment shall be in accordance with the relevant text and mapping schedules of the existing Official Plan of the City of Guelph and applicable legislation. Amendment 93 should be read in conjunction with the current Official Plan (February 2022 Consolidation, as amended) which is available on the City’s website at guelph.ca, or at the Planning Services office located at 1 Carden Street, Guelph, ON, on the 3rd Floor.

Details of the Proposed Amendment

ITEM 1: The purpose of ITEM 1 is to amend Schedule 2 Land Use Plan to implement the recommendations of the York Road/Elizabeth Street Land Use Study that were not implemented in Official Plan Amendment No. 80. Revisions to the schedule are displayed in an area specific map attached hereto.

Schedule 2 Land Use Plan is hereby amended for the following properties: 264-300 Elizabeth Street, 23 Garibaldi Street, 44 Johnston Street, 60 Johnston Street, 137-147 Stevenson Street South, 157 Stevenson Street South, 37 Empire Street, 201-207 Alice Street and 48-56 Victoria Road South, in accordance with the area specific map hereto.

For more information

The staff report will be available on February 1, 2024 after 12 p.m. at guelph.ca/agendas.

The planner to contact for the Official Plan Amendment is:

Lucas Mollame, Policy Planner I
519-822-1260 extension 3879
[email protected]

How to get involved

Any person may attend the meeting and/or provide verbal or written comments on the application.

When we receive your registration, we will send you a confirmation message and instructions for participating in the hybrid public meeting will be provided. Instructions will also be provided during the meeting to ensure those watching online and attending in-person will be given the opportunity to speak.

To speak to the amendment, please notify the Clerk’s Department no later than 10 a.m. on Friday February 9, 2024, by any of the following ways:

When we receive your registration, we will send you a confirmation message and instructions for participating in the remote Council meeting. Instructions will also be provided during the meeting to ensure those watching the remote public meeting will be given the opportunity to speak.

To submit written comments and be included in the Council Agenda, we request written comments no later than 10:00 a.m. on Friday February 9, 2024, by any of the following ways:

  • By email to [email protected] and [email protected] (attachments must not exceed 15 MB)
  • In person at the Service Guelph Counter at City Hall, 1 Carden Street, Guelph
  • By regular mail or courier to Guelph City Clerk, 1 Carden Street, Guelph ON N1H 3A1 or place them in the mail slot beside the main entrance to City Hall no later than 10:00 a.m. on Friday, February 9, 2024.

How to stay informed

If you wish to be notified of the City Council decision on this application you must make a written request to the City Clerk by way of email or regular mail as listed above.

Appeals information

If a person or public body would otherwise have an ability to appeal the decision of the Council of the City of Guelph to the Ontario Land Tribunal but the person or public body does not make oral submissions at a public meeting or make written submissions to the City of Guelph before the Official Plan Amendment is adopted, the person or public body is not entitled to appeal the decision.

If a person or public body does not make oral submissions at a public meeting or make written submissions to the City of Guelph before the Official Plan Amendment is adopted, the person or public body may not be added as a party to the hearing of an appeal before the Ontario Land Tribunal unless, in the opinion of the Tribunal, there are reasonable grounds to do so.

Notice of collection of personal information

Personal information is being collected in order to gather feedback and communicate with interested parties regarding this Official Plan Amendment.  Information provided or presented at a public meeting is considered a public record and may be posted on the City’s website or made public upon request.

This information is collected under the authority of the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990, cP.13.  Questions about this collection should be directed to the Information and Access Coordinator at 519-822-1260 extension 2349 or [email protected].

Accessibility

Alternative accessible formats are available by contacting [email protected] or TTY 519-826-9771.

Join Guelph’s housing affordability focus group

 Guelph, Ont., January 17, 2024 – Guelph’s vision is to be an inclusive, connected, prosperous city where we look after each other and our environment – and that means having a diverse range of housing types available, including affordable housing options.  

But what does affordable housing truly mean for Guelph? We need your help to not only have this conversation, but also to explore approaches and actions that the City can take to protect existing affordable housing stock and to increase the supply of new affordable housing.   

Increasing Guelph’s housing supply 

The 2024 Housing Affordability Strategy (an update to the 2017 Affordable Housing Strategy) will identify actions like policy changes, tools and incentives, advocacy, and partnership approaches to address private-market housing gaps in the short, medium, and long term.  

We’re focusing on private-marking housing gaps because this is where the City has the most influence, but we’re taking a highly collaborative approach to developing this Strategy so we can support and leverage the work of others who are also working hard to increase affordable housing options in our community.  

Visit the Housing in Guelph story map to learn more about how the City of Guelph is working to help increase housing supply for our community. 

Get involved 

If you’re passionate about housing, join the Housing Affordability Strategy Focus Group (HASFG) to help develop a strategy that will determine what affordable private-market housing looks like for our community and how we can help close the housing gap.  

Complete the HASFG application form and learn more about the different opportunities to get involved at haveyoursay.guelph.ca/housing-affordability 

For more information 

Cushla Matthews, Development Advisor 
Planning and Building Services – Policy Planning
City of Guelph
519-822-1260 extension 3982
[email protected]   

Some City rates and fees changing January 1

Guelph, Ont., December 21, 2023 – On January 1, 2024, rates and fees for some City services and programs, such as water, wastewater, public waste drop-off and parking, will increase. Check the 2024-2027 rates, fees and charges guide for a full list of the rates and the changes that will happen each year along with the effective date of change.

The changes are part of the Council-approved 2024-2027 Multi-Year Budget. 

Water, wastewater and stormwater rates 

The volume charges for water will increase by 17 cents to $2.12 per cubic metre, and the volume charges for wastewater will increase by 19 cents to $2.24 per cubic metre. Daily basic service charges are also changing, with the magnitude of the change depending on the size of the meter. 

Monthly stormwater fees will increase to $8.80—an increase of $1.20 per month.  

Parking fees 

Monthly parking permit fees will increase by five per cent for most parkades and parking lots. There will be no fee increase for the Norwich and Arthur Street parking lots.  

Hourly downtown parking rates will remain at $3 per hour.  

Public waste drop-off 

The minimum fee to drop off waste, including mixed waste (unsorted garbage) or yard waste, will remain at $10. 

The fees for new or replacement waste carts are $65 for small, $95 for large and $105 for extra large. Replacement of damaged carts is free if the warranty applies.  

Visit the Waste Resource Innovation Centre page on guelph.ca for a complete list of public drop-off fees. 

Resources  

For more information 

Zachary Cox, Communications Officer
Strategic Communications and Community Engagement
City of Guelph
519-822-1260 extension 3656
[email protected]

Ward to Downtown Bridge Update

Guelph, Ont., December 21, 2023 – Due to unforeseen challenges, the City is pausing and taking steps to further evaluate the Ward to Downtown bridge project. The construction contract for the project has been cancelled.

The objective of the Ward to Downtown Bridge project is to provide connectivity for pedestrians from St. Patrick’s Ward to downtown. The construction contract for the project was awarded in early 2023, with construction initially planned to take place between August 2023 and fall 2024. Unanticipated complexities were identified in the early stage of this phase of the project and the City has made the decision to cancel the construction contract in order to assess identified challenges and avoid further delays and increased costs on the project.

The City is in the process of evaluating next steps and will share more information on the future status of this initiative to enhance connectivity to the downtown core in the coming months.

For more information

Gene Matthews, General Manager
Parks
519-822-1260 extension 3337
[email protected]

Notice of passed bylaw amendments

Guelph City Council passed the following bylaws on December 12, 2023:

For more information about any of the above contact Planning Services at 519-837-5616 or [email protected]. If you would like to appeal any of the bylaws above, you must file a Notice of Appeal with the City Clerk before 4:00 p.m. on January 9, 2024, by contacting the Clerk’s Office at 519-837-5603 or [email protected].

Speedvale Avenue and Woolwich Street intersection re-opened to traffic

Minor improvements to continue in spring 2024

Notice date: December 11, 2023

About the project

The reconstruction of the Speedvale Avenue and Woolwich Street intersection is a phase of work connected to the Speedvale Avenue East reconstruction and bridge replacement. The intersection recently reopened to traffic following improvements to the underground utilities including sanitary sewers, water mains, storm sewers and electrical.

Temporary re-opening

Additional construction work will take place in the spring to complete in-boulevard cycling facilities and relocate several utility poles that have been placed in temporary locations at the intersection.

Pedestrian and cyclist access

The sidewalks at the intersection will be open throughout the winter. People walking in the area can expect that the temporary utility poles may pose obstacles on the sidewalk during this time.

Temporary pavement markings and signs will direct people cycling in the area to use the road. The planned multi-use paths and cycle tracks will also be completed in spring 2024 when construction resumes.

Drivers

Drivers on Woolwich Street should expect to sometimes share the lane with people biking in the vicinity of the intersection. The intersection and lanes are fully opened for drivers and busses.

Map of construction area

 

For more information

The City appreciates your patience, understanding and co-operation during this important construction project. Any updates will be posted on guelph.ca/construction.

For more information about the project, or if you require this document to be provided in an alternative format as per the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (2005), please contact:

Reg Russwurm, Manager of Design and Construction
Engineering and Transportation Services
City of Guelph
519-822-1260 extension 2765
[email protected]

 

 

New service improvements to Guelph Transit route 5

Guelph, Ont., December 4, 2023 – We’re making some route adjustments starting January 7, 2024.

Schedule and/or route name changes

Route 5 Goodwin:

  • New express service coming for a portion of Route 5 Goodwin
  • After picking up customers at the Gordon at Edinburgh northbound bus stop, Route 5 Goodwin will express service to the University Centre (no pick-ups or drop-offs)
  • No changes to hours and frequency of service

Visit guelphtransit.ca for route schedules, maps and trip planning.

For more information

Laura Bragues, Supervisor, Scheduling and Service Planning
Public Services, Guelph Transit
City of Guelph
519-822-1260 extension 2523
[email protected]

It’s beginning to look a lot like winter recreation registration season

Program schedule now available, registration opens December 13

Guelph, Ont., November 29, 2023 – Starting December 13 at 7:30 a.m., you can register for recreation programs running January to March 2024 three ways:

  • online at recenroll.ca
  • by phone at 519-837-5699 from 7:30 a.m. until 10 p.m.
  • in person at West End Community Centre, Victoria Road Recreation Centre, and Evergreen Seniors Community Centre from 7:30 a.m. until 10 p.m.

After registration opening day, you can continue to register online any time, and by phone or in-person during regular operating hours, visible by facility at guelph.ca/rec-facilities.

Winter programs include swimming, sports, and leisure activities. Schedules are live on RecEnroll so you can plan before registration opens.

Online registration is quick and easy

To make registering online even easier, you can add your credit card information to your RecEnroll account ahead of time. Here’s how:

  • Login to your account on recenroll.ca
  • Choose the family member who will be adding their card information.
  • On the Family Member Detail page, scroll down to the Finance Info section and click/tap the “New” button.
  • In the form that opens, enter the card information.
  • Click/tap the “Save” button.

Now you’re ready to enrol in recreation programs with just a few clicks.

Access to recreation for all

Everyone should have the opportunity to participate in recreation programs. In partnership with the Children’s Foundation of Guelph and Wellington, the Free to Grow program provides grants to low-income families to help children and youth under 18 participate in recreation programs. For those over 18, the City’s Fee Assistance in Recreation (FAIR) program provides adults and seniors on a limited income with subsidies for recreation programs, passes, and other memberships. To learn more about these fee assistance options and to apply visit guelph.ca/support-services, call 519-837-5699, or visit any of our community centres.

Inclusion in recreation programs for people with a disability

Did you know that our recreation programs offer inclusion supports so people of all abilities can participate? Inclusion support is available for people with a disability who require extra support to participate in programs or camps. This service is provided at no additional cost.

We’ve adapted recreation programs with specialized programming to meet a variety of needs including Active Start for kids ages four to seven and FUNdamentals for kids ages seven to 12. We’re also offering our usual Waves with Friends and Friday Friends social groups.

For more information

[email protected]
519-837-5699

Notice of intention to designate: 331 Clair Road East

Take notice that the Council of the Corporation of the City of Guelph intends to designate 331 Clair Road East as a property of cultural heritage value or interest under section 29, Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter 0.18.

Description of the property

The legal description of the subject property is CON 8 REAR PT LOT 11; City of Guelph.

Statement of cultural heritage value or interest

The subject property is worthy of designation under section 29, Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act because it meets four of the prescribed criteria for determining cultural heritage value or interest, according to Ontario Regulation 9/06 as amended by 569/22. The heritage attributes of 331 Clair Road East display: design or physical, historical or associative, and contextual value.

The subject property meets Criterion 1 because it is a representative example of the nineteenth-century Ontario farmhouse form and style.

The subject property meets Criterion 2 because it exhibits a high degree of craftsmanship in the execution of its original stonework and exterior wood trim. The farmhouse was built using coursed limestone and granite fieldstone with roughly squared stone quoins cut stone window and door heads and sills with bush hammer and margined finishes.

The subject property meets Criterion 4 because of its direct ties to the Hanlon family, an important settler family of Puslinch Township and what is now the City of Guelph. The Hanlon family has a long history in the area and the farmhouse is tied to three generations of the Hanlon family. James Hanlon built the stone farmhouse on the subject property in 1864.

The subject property meets Criterion 7 because it is important in defining, maintaining, and supporting the historical character of the Clair Road East streetscape and as a vestige of the early farming landscapes of Puslinch Township and what is now Guelph.

Description of heritage attributes

The following elements of the property at 331 Clair Road East should be considered as heritage attributes in a designation under Part IV, Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act:

  • Vernacular one-and-a-half storey fieldstone farmhouse with rectangular plan
  • 3-bay façade with rectangular window openings and central door opening
  • Central door opening, including sidelights and transom
  • All original window and door openings
  • All stone sill and lintels at window and door openings
  • Side-gabled roof with overhang/return eaves, original wood soffits and fascia with large paired dentil design
  • Paired stone chimneys above the roofline at the east and west elevations
  • Central moderately-pitched front gable with arched stone lintel
  • Stone construction with parging and pointing to resemble cut stone blocks
  • Large stone quoins at all corners of the main portion of the building

It is intended that non-original features may be returned to the documented earlier designs or to their documented original without requiring City Council permission for an alteration to the design.

A more detailed description of the property’s cultural heritage value may be found in staff’s report to City Council dated November 21, 2023 and at guelph.ca/heritage.

Notice of objection

Any person may send a notice of objection to this proposed designation, before 4 p.m. on ­­­Friday December 22, 2023. This notice must be sent by registered mail or delivered to the Clerk of the City of Guelph and must set out the reason for the objection and all relevant facts. If a notice of objection is received, the Council of the City of Guelph shall consider the objection and make a decision whether or not to withdraw the notice of intention to designate the property within 90 days after the end of the 30-day objection period. If Council decides not to withdraw its intention to designate, a heritage designation bylaw must be passed within 120 days after the date of publication of the notice of intention to designate. Council must publish a notice of passing of the designation bylaw which is followed by a 30-day appeal period when appeals of the bylaw may be given to the Ontario Land Tribunal for a hearing and decision.

Stephen O’Brien
City Clerk
City of Guelph
1 Carden Street, Guelph ON N1H 3A1

For more information

Jack Mallon, Heritage Planner
Planning Services 519-822-1260 x 3872
[email protected].

Notice date: November 23, 2023

Notice of intention to designate: 49 Metcalfe Street

Take notice that the Council of the Corporation of the City of Guelph intends to designate 49 Metcalfe Street as a property of cultural heritage value or interest under section 29, Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter 0.18.

Description of the property

The legal description of the subject property is PLAN 357 LOT 26 PT LOT 24; City of Guelph.

Statement of cultural heritage value or interest

The subject property is worthy of designation under Part IV, Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act because it meets five of the prescribed criteria for determining cultural heritage value or interest, according to Ontario Regulation 9/06 as amended by 569/22. The heritage attributes of 49 Metcalfe Street display: design or physical, historical or associative, and contextual value.

The subject property meets Criterion 1 because it exhibits design or physical value as a rare example of the Art Moderne style architecture in the City of Guelph. The Dario Pagani house is the first Art Moderne residence constructed in the city and remains Guelph’s only example of Art Moderne residential architecture.

The subject property meets Criterion 2 because it displays a high degree of artistic merit. Inspired by aerodynamic design, the Art Moderne style emphasized streamlined, curving forms, and long horizontal lines. The Pagani house includes features typical of the Art Moderne, with smooth, rounded stucco walls, a flat roof with a small ledge at roofline, an asymmetrical façade, corner sash window groupings, and metal balustrades.

The subject property meets Criterion 4 because it has direct associations with Dario Pagani, an Italian immigrant that became one of Guelph’s most significant mid-century building contractors, and Dario’s son, Richard Pagani, who was raised at 49 Metcalfe and would become a provincially significant architect.

The subject property meets Criterion 5 because it yields information that contributes to an understanding of the Italian immigrant experience in the first half of the twentieth century. When the Dario Pagani House was constructed, St. George’s neighborhood was occupied primarily by Canadians of Anglo-Celtic descent. The Dario Pagani house represents the social and economic mobility of working-class Italian immigrants in mid-twentieth century Guelph, especially those involved in construction trades.

The subject property meets Criterion 9 because it is a landmark. The property stands out amongst the predominantly brown, yellow, and redbrick revival style residences that ring St. George’s Park on Metcalfe, Grange, and Palmer streets. The stark white stucco walls, situation on a corner lot, prominent visual location across from St George’s Park, and unique Art Modern architectural style make the residence a landmark in the neighborhood.

Description of heritage attributes

The following elements of the property at 49 Metcalfe Street should be considered as heritage attributes in a designation under Part IV, Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act:

  • The building form, including o Flat roof o Curved exterior wall
  • Window and door openings including:
  • Stepped 3-unit window on the curved wall
  • Wrap-around corner windows
  • Front door with porthole window
  • Extant original exterior doors
  • Poured concrete walls
  • Metal balustrade and balcony support
  • Stucco cladding
  • Protruding attached garage
  • Original internal roof drainage system (main roof and garage roof)

It is intended that non-original features may be returned to the documented earlier designs or to their documented original without requiring City Council permission for an alteration to the design.

A more detailed description of the property’s cultural heritage value may be found in staff’s report to City Council dated November 21, 2023 and at guelph.ca/heritage.

Notice of objection

Any person may send a notice of objection to this proposed designation, before 4 p.m. on ­­­Friday December 22, 2023. This notice must be sent by registered mail or delivered to the Clerk of the City of Guelph and must set out the reason for the objection and all relevant facts. If a notice of objection is received, the Council of the City of Guelph shall consider the objection and make a decision whether or not to withdraw the notice of intention to designate the property within 90 days after the end of the 30-day objection period. If Council decides not to withdraw its intention to designate, a heritage designation bylaw must be passed within 120 days after the date of publication of the notice of intention to designate. Council must publish a notice of passing of the designation bylaw which is followed by a 30-day appeal period when appeals of the bylaw may be given to the Ontario Land Tribunal for a hearing and decision.

Stephen O’Brien
City Clerk
City of Guelph
1 Carden Street, Guelph ON N1H 3A1

For more information

Jack Mallon, Heritage Planner
Planning Services 519-822-1260 x 3872
[email protected].
Notice date: November 23, 2023

Notice of passed bylaw amendments

Guelph City Council passed the following bylaws on November 6, 2023:

For more information about any of the above contact Planning Services at 519-837-5616 or [email protected]. If you would like to appeal any of the bylaws above, you must file a Notice of Appeal with the City Clerk before 4:00 p.m. on November 28, 2023, by contacting the Clerk’s Office at 519-837-5603 or [email protected].

Notice of passed bylaws

Guelph City Council passed the following bylaws on October 17, 2023:

  • Bylaw (2023) – 20845, (2023) – 20846, and (2023) – 20847 about 716 Gordon Street. For more information about the bylaw amendments visit https://guelph.ca/2023/06/716-gordon-street/

For more information about any of the above contact Planning Services at 519-837-5616 or [email protected]. If you would like to appeal any of the bylaws above, you must file a Notice of Appeal with the City Clerk before 4:00 p.m. on November 14, 2023, by contacting the Clerk’s Office at 519-837-5603 or [email protected].

Guelph Lab research project looks at experiences with and availability of public washrooms across city

Guelph, Ont., September 14, 2023—The Guelph Lab, a collaboration of The College of Social and Applied Human Sciences, University of Guelph and the City of Guelph, is working with the University’s Department of Geography, Environment and Geomatics to map public washrooms across the city 

The maps are part of broader research to understand community experiences with public washrooms, if there are enough across the city, and how people in Guelph are affected when they can’t access washrooms.  

The project team visited the 24 permanent public washrooms currently available across Guelph and combined the information with City data to create two maps of public washrooms: a city-wide map, and a map specific to the downtown core. The maps are shared in a report, Access to public washrooms in Guelph: what’s open and when (PDF 6MB), as the first phase of this project wraps up. 

Both maps show: 

  • what types of washrooms are available, e.g., permanent or portable, accessible or not,  
  • when washrooms are available at different times of year, e.g., seasonal availability, 
  • what times the washrooms are open, e.g., daytime only or 24 hours a day, and  
  • what days of the week washrooms are available. 

The project to map public washrooms and document experiences was created in response to community needs in the downtown core and across the city. It reflects the need to consider inclusion and equity in how the City delivers programs and services. The goal of this project is to make recommendations to improve access to public washrooms in the city for everyone. 

Why does access matter? 

Access to public washrooms is important for everyone in Guelph, but washrooms aren’t always available, and not everyone has access to washrooms when they need them. Access, including types of washrooms and when they’re available, can affect people’s activities and enjoyment of public spaces, and is of critical importance for people with disabilities and people experiencing homelessness.  

Next steps 

The project team is interviewing people in Guelph about their experiences using public washrooms. The team is interested in the perspectives of everyone in Guelph, especially those who are most affected by a lack of access to washrooms. 

The project team will use feedback from the interviews and mapping of current public washrooms to provide recommendations for improving access to public washrooms in Guelph. The report will be shared with the Council at a future date.  

About Guelph Lab 

The Guelph Lab is a collaboration of The College of Social and Applied Human Sciences, University of Guelph and the City of Guelph. The purpose of the Lab is to address challenges that have direct impact and relevance to the community. The Lab is focused on “public innovation” – developing solutions to the challenges faced by the community that cannot be solved without some form of government intervention. The Lab does this by bringing together municipal, community, and university expertise and knowledge. 

Media Contact 

Stacey Laughlin, Downtown Revitalization Advisor
Office of the Chief Administrative Officer
City of Guelph
519-822-1260 extension 2327
[email protected]

City of Guelph Municipal Class Environmental Assessment for Water and Wastewater Servicing Master Plan Update

Notice of study completion

The study

The City of Guelph has completed a Water and Wastewater Servicing Master Plan (W/WW MP) to review the City’s existing distribution and collection system for both capacity constraints and required upgrades to existing infrastructure.

The W/WW MP updates the City’s 2008 W/WW MP and serves as a decision support tool as well as a methodology for the prioritization of work and is foundational to the establishment of City policies. The study area focused on all lands within the city of Guelph municipal boundaries.

The process

The study followed the Master Planning Approach No. 1 in accordance with Environmental Assessment Act as per the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (MCEA) document, October 2000, as amended in 2007, 2011, 2015 and 2023. As such, the W/WW MP addressed Phases 1 and 2 of the MCEA process at a high level, and identifies further study requirements for individual projects, where required. All projects that will proceed directly without further study are categorized as exempt from Environmental Assessment Act requirements, as described in the MCEA document.

The Class EA process included public/external agency consultation, an evaluation of alternative solutions and alternative design concepts, an assessment of potential impacts associated with the proposed improvements and the development of measures to mitigate identified impacts. In keeping with the Class EA process, various alternatives were developed, evaluated and a preferred alternative(s) selected.  The following recommended improvements have been selected to address the needs of the City:

  1. New Watermain, Reservoir and Pump Station at Arkell Road and Victoria Road
  2. Watermain and facility upgrades
  3. Wastewater sewer upgrades

Subject to comments received as a result of this notice, and receipt of necessary approvals, the City of Guelph intends to proceed with the recommendations documented in the Class EA Project File using a phased implementation approach pending funding.

The W/WW MP Report is available for review at https://guelph.ca/plans-and-strategies/water-and-wastewater-servicing-master-plan/. Interested persons should provide written comment to Reg Russwurm at the City of Guelph within 30 calendar days from the date of this notice (September 17, 2023).

Reg Russwurm, MBA, P.Eng.
Manager, Design and Construction
[email protected]

This Notice was issued on August 17, 2023.

Information will be collected in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. With the exception of personal information, all comments will become part of the public record.

City of Guelph Municipal Class Environmental Assessment for Stormwater Management Master Plan Update

Notice of study completion

The study

The City of Guelph through Aquafor Beech Limited have completed a Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (Class EA) Study for the City of Guelph Stormwater Management (SWM) Master Plan.

The SWM Master Plan (SWM-MP) updates the City’s 2012 SWM-MP and serves as a decision support tool as well as a methodology for the prioritization of work and is foundational to the establishment of City policies. The study area focused on all lands within the city of Guelph municipal boundaries.

The process

The study followed the Master Planning Approach No. 2 in accordance with Environmental Assessment Act as per the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (MEA) document, October 2000, as amended in 2007, 2011, 2015 and 2023, and satisfies the requirements of Schedule B projects and identifies future Schedule C projects.

The Class EA process included public/external agency consultation, an evaluation of alternative solutions and alternative design concepts, an assessment of potential impacts associated with the proposed improvements and the development of measures to mitigate identified impacts. In keeping with the Class EA process, various alternatives were developed, evaluated and a preferred alternative(s) selected for six categories of stormwater management practices and program elements, including:

  1. Municipal pollution prevention, operations and maintenance practices
  2. Private property strategies (source controls)
  3. Stormwater for the capital roads program (conveyance controls)
  4. Stormwater management facilities
  5. Watercourse and erosion restoration
  6. Urban flood management and stormwater infrastructure

The recently completed Project File Report and this notice is being placed in the public record for review. Subject to comments received as a result of this notice, and receipt of necessary approvals, the City of Guelph intends to proceed with the recommendations documented in the Class EA Project File using a phased implementation approach pending funding. The Project File Report is available for review at https://guelph.ca/plans-and-strategies/stormwater-management/

Interested persons should provide written comment to Reg Russwurm, MBA, P.Eng., at the City of Guelph within 30 calendar days from the date of this notice.

Reg Russwurm, MBA, P.Eng.
Manager, Design and Construction
[email protected]

If concerns arise regarding this project, which cannot be resolved in discussion with the City, a person or party may request that the Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks make a Section 16 Order (appeal). A request can be made by anyone who believes that the environmental assessment process may have a potential adverse impact on constitutionally protected Indigenous and treaty rights and that an Order may prevent, mitigate, or remedy this impact. To submit a Section 16 Order request, the information that must be provided can be found on the Class environmental assessments: Section 16 Order website (https://www.ontario.ca/page/class-environmental-assessments-section-16-order#section-3). Once completed, the request can be sent to both the Minister of Environment, Conservation and Parks and the Director of Environmental Assessment Branch. Their addresses are:

Minister
Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks
777 Bay Street, 5th Floor
Toronto, ON M7A 2J3
[email protected] 

Director
Environmental Assessment and Permissions Branch
Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks
135 St. Clair Ave. West, 1st Floor
Toronto, ON M4V 1P5
[email protected]

All Section 16 order requests must be received by the Minister within 30 calendar days from the issue date of the Notice. A copy of the request must also be sent to the contact person at the City of Guelph. If no request for further review is received by the Minister by September 17, 2023, this EA Study shall be considered final and used as the basis for the future projects, programs, and policy in the City of Guelph.

This Notice was issued on August 17, 2023.

Information will be collected in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. With the exception of personal information, all comments will become part of the public record.

Guelph introduces e-scooters as part of Ontario’s pilot program

New bylaw in effect July 25

Guelph, Ont., July 28, 2023 – The City of Guelph has opted to join Ontario’s electric kick-style scooter (e-scooter) pilot program, allowing the use of e-scooters on City streets and designated multi-use paths within the city.

On July 25, City Council approved E-scooter By-law (2023)-20819. The bylaw is effective July 25 and will remain in effect until the conclusion of the Province’s pilot program on January 1, 2025, or earlier if determined by the Province.

Under the new bylaw, specific conditions have been set to ensure the safe operation of e-scooters in Guelph. By adhering to this bylaw, e-scooter users can contribute to accident prevention and the overall safety of pedestrians, cyclists, drivers, and themselves.

Residents of Guelph are encouraged to enjoy the benefits of e-scooters during the pilot program while strictly following the bylaw. Similar to bicycles, all Highway Traffic Act rules apply when riding e-scooters in Guelph. Violations of the bylaw may result in penalties ranging from a fine of approximately $250 to $2,500.

An e-scooter is a vehicle with two wheels, a standing platform, a handlebar for steering, lights on the front and back, and specific limitations regarding weight, motor power, and maximum speed.

To be eligible to ride an e-scooter in Guelph, users must be 16 years of age or older, always stand while operating the e-scooter, refrain from carrying passengers or transporting packages that aren’t secured in a permitted bag carried by the driver, and comply with all Highway Traffic Act rules. Additionally, users between the ages of 16 and 18 must wear a helmet. Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited.

It’s important to note that e-scooters can only be used on city roadways (including bike lanes) and on designated multi-use paths in Guelph. Sidewalks, trails, non-designated multi-use paths, parks, and City-owned properties including parking lots are off-limits for e-scooter usage. Proper parking is essential, ensuring walkways remain clear for pedestrians.

If you encounter any issues or have concerns regarding e-scooter usage, please contact Guelph’s Bylaw Compliance office at 519-837-2529. Alternatively, you can report problems online at guelph.ca/how-can-we-help-you. For more information about the program visit guelph.ca/escooter.

Let’s work together to make Guelph’s e-scooter pilot program a safe and successful venture, enjoying the benefits they offer while prioritizing the well-being of our community.

Resources

E-scooter By-law (2023)-20819

Staff report: E-scooter By-law – 2023-276

For more information

Dustin Gronc, Manager Corporate and Community Safety
Operations, City of Guelph
519-822-1260 extension 3475
[email protected]

Link your OnYourWay and PRESTO accounts to enjoy a free trip when riding Guelph Transit and the GO

Program starts August 8

Guelph, Ont., July 27, 2023 – Starting August 8, Guelph Transit fares when connecting to and from GO Transit will be free. Simply link your OnYourWay and PRESTO accounts to enrol in the Connect-to-GO co-fare discount program.

Once the new co-fare program begins, Guelph Transit will no longer accept PRESTO cards to ride city buses. Instead, tap your PRESTO-linked OnYourWay fare card when you get on the bus, then tap it again on one of two co-fare validator machines when you hop off at Guelph Central Station to refund your bus fare.

Coming into Guelph on the GO train? Simply tap your OnYourWay fare card on a validator as you get off the train before boarding a Guelph Transit bus. As you board the bus, tap your OnYourWay fare card again and enjoy a free ride to your destination.

The validators are conveniently located near the PRESTO machines by the railway tracks and Guelph Central Station building so you can quickly and easily tap your OnYourWay and PRESTO cards at the same time.

The Guelph Transit and Metrolinx co-fare discount program doesn’t include GO Transit bus trips and can only be activated during GO Transit train arrival and departure times.

How to link your transit accounts

Before using the validator for the first time, you’ll need to link your accounts by enrolling in the co-fare discount program.

  1. Access the Reduced Transit Fare Eligibility portal at guelph.ca/reducedtransitfareeligibility
  2. Add your name, email address, and full mailing address and upload images of:
  • Your OnYourWay fare card showing the card number
  • Your PRESTO card showing the account number
  • A piece of government-issued identification (including full mailing address so we can link your accounts)

Guelph Transit staff will notify you by email once your enrolment is confirmed.

About the co-fare discount program

The co-fare discount program is a long-standing joint initiative between Guelph Transit and Metrolinx. The program lets you ride Guelph Transit for free instead of paying the regular fare when travelling to and from Guelph Central Station to catch a GO train.

For more information

Dawn Johnson, Electronic Fare Management System Specialist
Guelph Transit
City of Guelph
519-822-1260 extension 3531
[email protected]

Notice of passing of heritage designation by-law

In the matter of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter 0.18 in the City of Guelph, in the Province of Ontario.

Take notice that the Council of the Corporation of the City of Guelph has passed By-law Number (2023)-20806 dated July 11, 2023 to designate portions of the property known as 47 Alice Street as being of cultural heritage value or interest under Part IV, Sec. 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter 0.18.

Take notice that the Council of the Corporation of the City of Guelph has passed By-law Number (2023)-20810 dated July 11, 2023 to designate portions of the property known as 65 Delhi Street as being of cultural heritage value or interest under Part IV, Sec. 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter 0.18.

For more information

Victoria Nagy, Heritage Planner
[email protected]
519-822-1260 extension 2521

Stephen Robinson, Senior Heritage Planner
[email protected]
519-822-1260 extension 2496

Stephen O’Brien, City Clerk
City Hall, 1 Carden St.
Guelph, ON N1H 3A1
July 20, 2023