Derelict buildings are a concern for residents and businesses and there is a need to ensure that our fines and bylaws are appropriate.

Recent information suggests that some other jurisdictions in Canada have reviewed and updated their fines and bylaws in light of similar challenges.  For example, Winnipeg has enacted Bylaw No. 35/20004 specific to vacant and derelict buildings.

Can Administration please provide the following information:

1.      What are the current fines and bylaws in effect in Edmonton for derelict buildings?

2.      When was the last time the fines and bylaws were reviewed for appropriateness?

3.      Has any recent research been done on the effectiveness of the current City of Edmonton fines and bylaws?

4.      What are other jurisdictions doing on this issue (with special emphasis on the City of Winnipeg's bylaw)?

A copy of a handout given by Councillor T. Caterina titled “Vacant & Derelict Buildings Bylaw No. 35/2004, City of Winnipeg” was filed with the Office of the City Clerk.

Planning & Dev.

Due Date: June 2/2010

Efforts are ongoing around the city to revitalize various business districts identified by priority areas.  The City has had some excellent success with several programs to help the efforts by local community and business associations.  However, many City of Edmonton program offices and staff that work directly with the community remain working in the downtown core. 

Can Administration provide a report back to Executive Committee on the following:

1.      What information has been researched in the past about decentralizing the location of City of Edmonton staff?

2.      In recent years a similar project was undertaken to move the Landlord and Tenant Association out of the city core.  Accounts are that this has been a positive move for both the staff and area around the office location.  What research information is available that would demonstrate success or challenges with that move?

3.      Can Administration identify other City programs that serve the community directly that could be considered for relocation into the revitalization areas in order to create added vibrancy and increase occupancy?

Corp. Svcs.

Due Date: June 2/2010

That the revised due date of March 17, 2010, be approved.

Finance & Treas.

Due Date: Mar. 17/2010

That the revised due date of September 8, 2010, be approved.

Deputy City Manager

Due Date: Sept. 8/2010

Churchill Square Development Options

1.      That Administration provide a report to the June 2, 2010, Executive Committee meeting, outlining options to:

• Utilize the Edmonton Eskimos tent in Churchill Square
• Have an outdoor basketball/sporting tournament in Churchill Square in 2010
• Develop a plan to transition the shop on the square into an crafts/arts/music/city and aboriginal venue
• Meet with the Edmonton Public Library to come up with an Request for Proposal for the utilization of Centennial Square and interface of the Library with the Square
• Establish a small but active skateboard park as a part of the square and ask for input from Kids in the Hall

2.      That Administration provide an update on all the actions as outlined in the February 17, 2010, Deputy City Manager's Office report 2010DCM019 and verbal presentation.

3.      That Administration also include information on the potential changes to the temporary road closure to 102A Avenue and 99 Street.

Deputy City Manager

Due Date: June 2/2010

Security in the Square

That the City Manager provide an update at the March 17, 2010, Executive Committee meeting, on discussions between Administration and Edmonton Police Commission regarding the roles of Peace Officers and the edmonton Police Service for security in the Square.

City Manager

Due Date: Mar. 17/2010

Proposed Amendments to Zoning Bylaw - Outdoor Signs

That Administration provide a report to Executive Committee outlining:

1.      Proposed amendments to the zoning bylaw to address (digital video technology) signs.

2.      A signage strategy that includes portable signs.

3.      Suggestions on how to deal with the proliferation of street signs.

Planning & Dev.
Transportation

Due Date: Dec. /2010

Temporary Uses in Retail Parking Lots

That Administration implement an information program for retail businesses, on the temporary uses of garden centres and outside storage, in retail parking lots, as well as monitor and conduct inspections throughout the summer, and report back to Executive Committee with some recommendations.

Planning & Dev.

Due Date: Sept. 8/2010

Council Protocol Items Update

That Administration provide a report to Executive Committee on a possible policy to deal with Council protocol items, based on best practices research, including but not limited to the City of Vancouver, that would:

·        Consider establishing the appropriate time, place and process (e.g. monthly or quarterly)

·        Define protocol criteria and eliminate duplicate processes

·        Set limits on the time allotted at council meetings

·        Set limits on the number of items allowed at council meetings

·        Create alternate arrangements for photos

·        Examine protocol procedures elsewhere

·        Identify a mechanism for distinguishing between the different types of protocols and recognition opportunities.

Deputy City Manager

Due Date: June 2, 2010

That the March 3, 2010, Corporate Services Department verbal report and presentation remain private, pursuant to sections 17, 23 and 24 of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

Corporate Svcs.