Council Briefs, February 6, 2024

Pembroke Curling Centre Presentation

Marking the 150th year anniversary, Pembroke Curling Club President Jake Bailie and member Dave Lemkay presented the City of Pembroke with a proclamation and a book called The Roarin’ Game in Pembroke which features the rich history of the game of curling in the City of Pembroke dating back 150 years.

Ottawa Valley Tourist Association Annual Budget

Melissa Marquardt, County of Renfrew Manager of Economic Development, and Board Chair Meghan James were in attendance to present the Ottawa Valley Tourist Association annual budget. Committee received the report.

OPP Strategic Plan

Inspector Stephane Neufeld, Upper Ottawa Valley OPP Detachment Commander, was in attendance to present the Ontario Provincial Police 2022-2025 Strategic Plan.

Street Re-Naming Request

A request was received from Mr. Fred Blackstein to rename Fred Blackstein Boulevard to First Responders Way. Mr. Blackstein stated that it was an honour to have the street named after him for the last 25 years, but he feels it would be more relevant to have the street named First Responders Way recognizing first responders. Committee approved the request.

Short-Term Rentals

On January 2, 2024, staff was given direction to research and report back to Committee regarding potential options for addressing short-term rentals within the City of Pembroke. A number of options were presented. Committee directed staff to bring forward a by-law with Option 2 of the presented report, with the removal of the point that states the owner must reside on the property.

PFD Monthly Report – January 2024

Committee received the January 2024 Monthly Pembroke Fire Department Report. Fire Chief Selle reviewed prevention and public education activities, employee recognition and training, vulnerable occupancy inspections and drills, emergency management, EOC/Training Room events, Pembroke Professional Firefighters Association support, and career firefighter training for the month of January 2024. This report also included the number of Recreational Open-Air Burning permits purchased and inspections completed, and the number of Smoke Alarm inspections, incidents, and false alarms completed during the month.

Animal Control By-law

A concern was raised from a City resident to a member of Council regarding Pembroke’s Animal Control By-law suggesting the City place limits on the number of cats and dogs allowed in a dwelling. It was suggested that in many cases such as this, the Landlord Tenant Tribunal should be dealing with the issue. Committee directed staff to remain status quo regarding the Animal Control By-law and that no changes were required.

On-Demand Transit Discussion

At the October 17, 2023 Parks and Recreation Committee meeting, staff was directed to research and report back with an estimate of cost for a public opinion survey and a transit planning study as possible next steps for a transit pilot project. Staff delivered the report for Committee direction on how to proceed. The information was received by Committee who then directed staff to proceed with issuing a Request for Proposal for an integrated on-demand transit service.

Monthly Accounts – April - September

Committee received the City of Pembroke monthly accounts for April 2023-September 2023.

Black History Month Proclamation

Mayor Gervais proclaimed February as Black History Month recognizing the contributions and vital role that Canadians of African descent have made to strengthen the social and cultural mosaic of our community, province, and country.

Wear Red Canada Day Proclamation

Mayor Gervais proclaimed February 13 as Wear Red Canada Day bringing awareness to women’s heart health.

Resolution 2024-01 – CIP – 185 Pembroke St. E.

Council approved the application from the tenant of 185 Pembroke St. E. for the Community Improvement Plan Façade Improvement Grant.

Resolution 2024-02 – Social and Economic Prosperity Review (AMO)

Council passed a resolution requesting the Province of Ontario to commit to undertaking with the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, a comprehensive social and economic prosperity review to promote the stability and sustainability of municipal finances across Ontario, as the current provincial/municipal fiscal arrangements are undermining Ontario’s economic prosperity and quality of life.