Highlights of Cornwall City Council meeting on 11 June 2024

Cornwall Councilors met in the Council Chambers at the Town Hall on 11th June 2024 for their regular fortnightly meeting. All members were present. Here are some highlights of the meeting.

Long-term housing development plan

Council received a presentation on the Long Term Housing Development Plan, which addresses the urgent need for affordable housing. This plan outlines the development of 538 new affordable homes in seven strategic locations over the next decade, aiming to meet a proportion (54%) of the need for 995 units identified in the Housing Revitalization Plan (2020). The total estimated development cost for these projects is approximately $177.7 million, with an estimated capital cost of $123.3 million.

The plan emphasizes the need for federal and provincial funding to support construction and ensure the financial viability of these projects. The council, by a vote of 9-2, approved the designation of vacant municipally-owned land at 504 Fourth Street East for future affordable housing development. The plan includes the creation of a neighborhood park and additional recreational facilities.

Roof replacement at the Civic Complex

Proteck Roofing and Sheet Metal was awarded the tender to replace the roof at the Cornwall Civic Complex at a cost of $974,368.25 including HST. This project will replace half of the arena’s roof, which has reached the end of its useful life and is leaking. The replacement will cover approximately 29,000 square feet. The second half of the roof is planned for replacement in 2025, pending council approval.

Temporary road closure on Pitt Street

Council approved the temporary closure of Pitt Street from Third Street to Second Street on September 21, 2024, from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., for United Way Centraide SDG’s annual fundraising event, “Over the Edge.” Participants will get off in front of the St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation. The street closure will create a safe zone for spectators to enjoy music and a barbecue lunch.

The mayor’s task force for medical recruitment

Council approved the Terms of Reference for the Mayor’s Task Force on Medical Recruitment. This task force, with an annual budget of $200,000, aims to attract health professionals to Cornwall, addressing the region’s ongoing shortage of medical staff. The task force will review current efforts, collaborate with stakeholders, and provide actionable recommendations to improve residents’ access to health care.

Reconstruction of First Street and Lawrence Avenue

Council awarded the tender for the reconstruction of First Street and Lawrence Avenue to Cornwall Gravel Company Limited. The project, totaling $2,708,763.73 including HST, involves extensive infrastructure work, including approximately 126 meters of storm sewer, sanitary sewer and water sewer on First Street and similar improvements on Lawrence Avenue.

Historically related committees and groups

The board directed staff to prepare a comprehensive report on active groups involved in collecting and preserving local history. The report will identify overlaps and gaps in services, outline the organizations that receive funding from the city and detail the terms of reference for these groups. This initiative aims to increase the coordination and effectiveness of historic preservation efforts in Cornwall.

Building and Bylaw Report Request

The Building and Status Department will prepare a detailed report on all building permits applied for and approved in the last 12 months. The report will include a monthly breakdown of permit applications, approval times, permit types, geographic distribution and compliance data. This information will help the board understand construction trends, processing efficiencies and areas for improvement.

OMERS divestment of fossil fuels

The council passed a 6-5 resolution requiring OMERS to set clear goals to divest from fossil fuels. The city is urging OMERS to divest from new fossil fuel investments and provide plans for the profitable phase-out of existing fossil fuel assets.

City Tax Exemption for Akwesasne International Powwow

Council agreed to waive municipal fees for the 2024 Akwesasne International Powwow at Lamoureux Park. In addition to providing buses from Akwesasne to Cornwall and return. This decision underscores the city’s commitment to reconciliation and the celebration of indigenous culture, recognizing the importance of this event.

The next regular public meeting of Cornwall City Council will be held on Tuesday, June 25, 2024.