Council Meeting

Resolved that the December 4, 2023 Council meeting agenda be approved, as amended.

Resolved that resolution CS-23-046 from the Community Services minutes of November 28, 2023 be lifted for separate consideration.

Resolved that the following minutes be approved:  Corporate Services Committee - November 6, 2023  Council - November 20, 2023  Planning and Development Committee - November 22, 2023  Public Works Committee - November 27, 2023  Community Services Committee - November 28, 2023  Special Council - November 29, 2023

Resolved that the Grimsby Heritage Advisory Committee Council Endorsement Package be approved.

Resolved that the Grimsby Green Advisory Committee Council Endorsement Package be approved.

Resolved that the following board minutes be received:  Grimsby Heritage Advisory Committee - November 14, 2023  Grimsby Green Advisory Committee - November 15, 2023

Resolved that report PA-23-39, Council Direction Report – 332 Main Street West, 360 Main Street West and 266 Main Street West, dated December 4, 2023 be received; and 1. That Council proceed with the passing of the designation by-laws for the properties at 332 Main Street West and 360 Main Street West.

Resolved that Council defer the 266 Main Street designation by-law 23-96 until staff meet with the homeowner and bring this back to Council for January 15, 2024.

Resolved that report FIN-23-33, Grimsby Community Development Grant 2023/2024 Organization Recipients, dated December 4, 2023 be received; and 1. That the selected applicant projects be approved for funding as recommended by the Grant Review Panel under the conditions of the Grimsby Community Development Grant Program; and 2. That Council refer the Grimsby Community Development Grant program to be included as part of the 2024 Budget deliberations.

Whereas implementing a short-term rental tax or licensing system within our municipality can aim to enhance both the regulatory framework for short-term rentals and the promotion of tourism. Whereas such a system could ensure compliance with local regulations and contribute to the municipality's revenue stream. Whereas revenue generated from this initiative can be allocated towards establishing a pilot project fund designated for legal representation for local tenants. This fund would be dedicated to providing legal representation and support services to local tenants facing housing- related legal challenges. The provision of legal aid for tenants will contribute to a more equitable and fair housing environment within our community. Therefore be it resolved that staff conduct a comprehensive study on the potential implementation of a short-term rental tax or licensing system and the establishment of the pilot project fund. The study should encompass an analysis of similar initiatives in other municipalities, potential revenue projections, administrative requirements, and the feasibility of allocating a portion of the revenue for tenant legal representation.

Whereas the Town of Grimsby has a by-law in effect that prohibits the keeping of certain domestic farm animals in certain areas of the Town; and Whereas this by-law does not address the keeping of domestic farm animals in all residential areas of the Town; and Whereas the keeping of domestic farm animals does attract wildlife into these residential areas; and Whereas this wildlife may be dangerous to the residents and pets of the residents should there be encounters; and Whereas the Town should be proactive in reviewing this by-law against best practices to ensure its relevance meets the Town’s present needs; and Therefore, be it resolved that Council direct staff to investigate and report on options available to Council on the keeping of domestic farm animals throughout all residential areas of the Town including all related by-laws.

Resolved that the correspondence from the Niagara Region, the City of Niagara Falls, and the Town of Fort Erie be received; and 1. Further that Council endorse the letter and support any recommendations within the Ombudsman's Report dated November 29, 2023.

Resolved that leave be given to introduce By-laws 23-97 to 23-101 inclusive, save and except by-law 23-96 - 266 Main Street West, and that the same be read a first time, considered, and passed.

Resolved that the appointments approved in closed session be approved and staff advise the applicants accordingly.

Resolved that leave be given to introduce By-law 23-102 and that the same be read a first time, considered, and passed.