City of Waterloo Council Summary March 25, 2024

** The council summary below provides a snapshot of the major items presented at Monday’s council meeting. The council meeting webcast is available on the City of Waterloo YouTube page. Please refer to the minutes for an official record of the meeting.

Culture Plan Report Card

The Arts and Creative Industries team updated Council on the City’s culture plan – a plan created to show ongoing commitment to view culture as a contributor to a vibrant, creative and engaging community with a strong local economy. Highlights of the 2023 report card on culture included: a new Arts Grant Program providing much-needed funding for community arts organizations; engaging City of Waterloo Museum exhibits that increased the range of visitors; Lumen 2023 saw a record attendance of 37,000 participants; and a new Artists in Neighbourhoods program was developed.

Fire Rescue Expansion

Council approved the partial release of capital funding in the amount of $1 million to start the Fire Rescue Expansion project. This infrastructure expansion will involve Fire Station #2 at 470 Columbia Street and would include: the addition of a second response team 24/7; an additional fire truck; and would trigger additional space for staff, parking and equipment needs. Other existing fire stations are also part of the current study to ensure the advancement of essential support services such as a mechanical bay and large vehicle equipment storage.

Council approves plan of subdivision that preserves existing rental units

As part of the City’s commitment to advance housing, Council approved the plan of a subdivision at 91-97 Milford Avenue. The approval makes it possible to have the newly built residences (44 stacked townhomes) be condominiums while the 51 existing rental townhouse units remain as rentals. The development also includes 114 surface parking spaces, 28 bicycle parking spaces (including 14 outdoor bike lockers) and outdoor amenity space. This approval aligns with the City’s Complete Community strategic priority, advancing community vibrancy through strategic density and diverse housing options.

-30-

Media contact:
Stacey Abbott
Manager, Corporate Communications
stacey.abbott@waterloo.ca