General Committee Meeting Minutes

Meeting Number: 4

Tuesday, April 01, 2025 at 9:30 A.m. - 4:30 P.m.

Live streamed

Roll Call

• Mayor Frank Scarpitti
• Deputy Mayor Michael Chan
• Regional Councillor Jim Jones
• Regional Councillor Joe Li
• Regional Councillor Alan Ho
• Councillor Keith Irish
• Councillor Ritch Lau
• Councillor Reid McAlpine
• Councillor Karen Rea
• Councillor Andrew Keyes
• Councillor Amanda Collucci
• Councillor Juanita Nathan
• Councillor Isa Lee

Staff

• Andy Taylor, Chief Administrative Officer
• Trinela Cane, Commissioner, Corporate Services
• Arvin Prasad, Commissioner, Development Services
• Claudia Storto, City Solicitor and Director of Human Resources
• Chris Nearing, Fire Chief
• Bryan Frois, Senior Manager, Executive Operations & Strategic Initiatives
• Joseph Silva, Treasurer
• Kimberley Kitteringham, City Clerk
• Alice Lam, Director, Operations
• Sumon Acharjee, Chief Information Officer
• Ned Sirry, Senior Manager, ITS Operations ＆ Project Delivery
• Frank Clarizio, Director, Engineering
• Graham Seaman, Director, Sustainability & Asset Management
• Alex Moore, Manager of Purchasing & Accounts Payable
• Giulio Cescato, Director, Planning & Urban Design
• Cajaanan Jeyanathan, Coordinator, Strategy & Executive Operations
• Andrew Baldwin, Director, Economic Development
• David Plant, Senior Manager, Parks, Horticulture ＆ Forestry
• Stafford Hughes, Technology Support Specialist II
• Iyana Mundo, Assistant to Council/Committee
• Rajeeth Arulanantham, Election & Committee Coordinator

---

1.

CALL TO ORDER

INDIGENOUS LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We begin today by acknowledging the traditional territories of Indigenous peoples and their commitment to stewardship of the land. We acknowledge the communities in circle. The North, West, South and Eastern directions, and Haudenosaunee, Huron- Wendat, Anishnabeg, Seneca, Chippewa, and the Mississaugas of the Credit peoples. We share the responsibility with the caretakers of this land to ensure the dish is never empty and to restore relationships that are based on peace, friendship, and trust. We are committed to reconciliation, partnership and enhanced understanding.

General Committee convened at 9:32 AM with Councillor Keith Irish presiding as Chair.

The Committee recessed at 11:19 AM and reconvened at 11:29 AM.  The Committee recessed for lunch at 12:51 PM and reconvened at 2:00 PM. The Committee recessed again at 4:28 PM and reconvened at 4:45 PM.

Councillor Ritch Lau and Regional Councillor Joe Li left the meeting at 4:45 PM.

2.

DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTEREST

Councillor Juanita Nathan declared a pecuniary interest in relation to item 12.1 due to being a candidate in the federal election and did not participate in the discussion or vote on the matter.

3.

APPROVAL OF PREVIOUS MINUTES

3.1

MINUTES OF THE MARCH 4, 2025 GENERAL COMMITTEE (16.0)

• Moved by Councillor Andrew Keyes
  Seconded by Regional Councillor Jim Jones
  1. That the minutes of the March 4, 2025 General Committee meeting be confirmed.
  Carried

4.

PRESENTATIONS

4.1

AUDITOR GENERAL - UPDATE (7.0)

Note: Please refer to item 11.2 for the Auditor General's Reports

Trinela Cane, Commissioner of Corporate Services, addressed the Committee to introduce Geoff Rodrigues, the City's Auditor General, and the team from MNP, the firm selected to provide Auditor General Services to the City in 2015. Commissioner Cane noted that MNP has conducted numerous compliance audits, value-for-money audits, and operational reviews covering a wide range of City programs and services. Commissioner Cane also informed the Committee that the contract for Auditor General Services with MNP has now concluded, and the presentations and reports provided represents a close-out of MNP’s audit work for the City.

Veronica Bila, from MNP and acting as the Auditor General in Mr. Rodrigues' absence, introduced the MNP team and presented the Auditor General Reports (Item 11.2):

Fleet Operations Audit

Ms. Bila introduced the Fleet Operations Audit, which evaluated the efficiency and effectiveness of fleet management and identified opportunities for improvement to provide enhanced value delivery to the City.

Jason Hails, MNP, provided a presentation outlining potential improvements to the management of fleet operations.

The Committee made the following comments on the Fleet Operations Audit presentation:

• Expressed appreciation for staff and senior management’s efforts in ensuring effective fleet operations and maximizing equipment usage and value.

• Expressed concerns that staff responses to the recommendations appeared unclear or lacked commitment. The Committee requested clarity on how staff intend to address the issues raised in a follow-up report.

Commissioner Cane responded that staff had reviewed the report and would welcome further discussions to prioritize the recommendations before reporting back to Council. Graham Seaman, Director of Sustainability and Asset Management, added that the outcome of the federal election may impact relevant factors (i.e., carbon tax implications), which could affect the business case.

Cornell Community Park Lessons Learned

Ms. Bila, introduced the presentation on the Cornell Community Park - Lessons Learned Review and outlined the scope of the Auditor General’s review. 

Jason Ducharme, MNP, outlined the summary of strengths, observations, recommendations, and management responses to the review of the Cornell Community Park.

The Committee made the following comments on the Cornell Community Park Lessons Learned presentation:

• Emphasized the critical importance of parks to the community and acknowledged the incredible return on investment the Cornell Community Park has been to the community.
• Underscored the need to continue advocating for changes to provincial policies regarding the amount of parkland to municipalities.
• Requested clarification on the project's budget noting that the initial budget was $12 million then had increased to $18 million, but returned to $12 million.

Follow Up Procedures Report

Ms. Bila presented the summary of findings from the Follow-Up Procedures report.

There were no comments from Committee on the Follow Up Procedures presentation.

Contact Centre Review

Ms. Bila provided a summary of the findings of the report for the Contact Centre review and opportunities for improvement.

The Committee made the following comments on the Contact Centre Review presentation:

• Requested for an clarification on the use of the Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system, concerns on why implementing an IVR system is not favored, and the need to conduct an evaluation of its pros and cons.
• Requested for clarification if all solutions is compatible with Microsoft 365 and if it will be integrated with artificial intelligence (AI)

Sumon Acharjee, Chief Information Officer, and Kimberley Kitteringham, City Clerk and Director of Legislative Services, provided clarification on the use of the IVR system, an update on the ongoing procurement for the telephony consultant and CRM product, and that the Contact Centre operates in multi-channel environment that provide various self-serve options (i.e. the use of the website and AI chatbot).

The Committee thanked the Contact Centre for their diligence in responding to incidences from the ice storm the past weekend.

The Committee also thanked the Auditor General and the team from MNP for their work.

• Moved by Mayor Frank Scarpitti
  Seconded by Councillor Andrew Keyes
  1. That the following presentations from the Auditor General be received: 
     1. Fleet Operations Audit - Presentation;
     2. Cornell Community Park - Lessons Learned Review - Presentation;
     3.  Auditor General - Follow Up Procedure Report - Presentation;
     4. Contact Centre Review - Presentation; and further,
  2. That staff be authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to this resolution.
  Carried

5.

DEPUTATIONS

5.1

AMENDMENTS TO BYLAW 77-93 - A BY-LAW TO PROVIDE FOR THE ANNUAL REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS FOR THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF COUNCIL (8.0) (11.0)

Logan Kanapathi, former Ward 7 Councillor and current Member of Provincial Parliament for Markham-Thornhill, spoke on item 12.1. Mr. Kanapathi highlighted his longstanding commitment to public service and expressed concern that the current by-law may discourage Councillors from pursuing higher office. Mr. Kanapathi requested that the proposed amendment to the by-law be applied retroactively, which would allow him to collect severance for his previous service as the Ward 7 Councillor with the City of Markham.

The Committee had the following comments and questions to the deputation:

• Requested clarification on how far back the by-law amendment should be applied retroactively.
• Expressed concern that the current policy may unfairly discourage Councillors from running for provincial or federal office.
• Requested for the severance amount Mr. Kanapathi would be eligible to receive if the amendment were applied retroactively.

The Committee thanked Mr. Kanapathi for his support on the potential bid for the 2030 Commonwealth Games and congratulated him on his recent victory in the 2025 Ontario General Election.

• Moved by Regional Councillor Jim Jones
  Seconded by Regional Councillor Joe Li
  1. That the deputation from Logan Kanapathi be received.
  Carried

6.

COMMUNICATIONS

6.1

YORK REGION COMMUNICATIONS (13.4)

Note:   Questions regarding Regional correspondence should be directed to Chris Raynor, Regional Clerk.

The following York Region Communications are available on-line only.

• Moved by Mayor Frank Scarpitti
  Seconded by Regional Councillor Alan Ho
  1. That the communication dated February 13, 2025 from York Region be received for information purposes:
     1. 2022 Water and Wastewater Master Plan Amendment;
     2. Township of King Resolution - Strengthening Enforcement Against Illegal Land Use.
  Carried

7.

PETITIONS

8.

CONSENT REPORTS - FINANCE & ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS

8.1

177-R-24 ELECTRICAL SERVICES FOR VARIOUS CITY FACILITIES (7.12)

• Moved by Councillor Amanda Collucci
  Seconded by Councillor Isa Lee
  1. That the report entitled “177-R-24 Electrical Services for Various City Facilities” be received; and,
  2. That the contract be awarded to the highest ranked / Lowest Priced bidder, Igman Electric Ltd., for a term of four years in the estimated amount of $1,594,160.00 inclusive of HST as per the following;
     Year 1 - April 1, 2025 - March 31, 2026 - $ 398,540.00
     Year 2 - April 1, 2026 - March 31, 2027 - $ 398,540.00
     Year 3 - April 1, 2027 - March 31, 2028 - $ 398,540.00
     Year 4 - April 1, 2028 - March 31, 2029 - $ 398,540.00
     Total: $ 1,594,160; and,
     
     Pricing will be firm for the initial two years of the contract ending March 31, 2027 and year 3 commencing April 1, 2027 will be subject to Consumer Price Index (CPI) increase to a maximum of 3%; and,
  3. That the contract includes an option for the City (in its sole discretion) to extend the contract for up to four additional years to be exercised in two (2) year periods. Pricing will be subject to CPI increase to a maximum of 3% if the extension is exercised on April 1, 2029 and again on April 1, 2031; and,
  4. That the Director of Sustainability & Asset Management and Senior Manager of Procurement & Accounts Payable be authorized to extend the contract for an additional four years, in two (2) year periods, subject to adoption of the annual operating budget and satisfactory performance; and,
  5. That the estimated annual amount of $398,540.00 (inclusive of HST) be funded from various operating accounts; and,
  6. That the annual operating shortfall in 2025 in the amount of $103,290 (budget of $295,250 – cost of award of $398,540) be absorbed as part of the 2025 results of operations and that the incremental operating budget impact as a result of the shortfall be adjusted as part of the 2026-2033 operating budgets subject to adoption; and,
  7. That the award amounts in 2026 to 2033 be subject to Council adoption of the respective annual operating budgets; and further,
  8. That staff be authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to this resolution.
  Carried

8.2

138-R-24 - CONSULTING SERVICES FOR PRE-DESIGN, DETAILED DESIGN AND TENDER PREPARATION FOR THE GLYNNWOOD TRIBUTARY AREA SURCHARGE FLOOD REMEDIATION (7.12)

• Moved by Councillor Amanda Collucci
  Seconded by Councillor Isa Lee
  1. That the report entitled “138-R-24 - Consulting Services for Pre-Design, Detailed Design and Tender Preparation for the Glynnwood Tributary Area Surcharge Flood Remediation” be received; and,
  2. That the contract for 138-R-24 - Consulting Services for Pre-Design, Detailed Design and Tender Preparation for the Glynnwood Tributary Area Surcharge Flood Remediation be awarded to the highest ranked, lowest priced Bidder, AECOM Canada Ltd. in the amount of $970,536.97 inclusive of HST; and,
  3. That provisional allowances in the amount of $396,864.00, inclusive of HST, be established for subsurface utility engineering (SUE) Level A, permit to take water, utility relocation inspection, excess soil management, additional boreholes and monitoring wells, additional legal survey, additional analysis to identify new solutions as a result of the pond modelling, design support during construction and for an annual external financial audit which may be required; and,
  4. That a 10% contingency in the amount of $136,740.10 inclusive of HST, be established to cover any additional design costs and that authorization to approve expenditures of the contingency amount up to the specified limit be in accordance with the Expenditure Control Policy; and,
  5. That the Engineering Department Capital Administration fee in the amount of $135,372.70 be transferred to revenue account 640-998-8871 (Capital Administration Fee); and,
  6. That the cost in the amount of $1,639,513.77 ($970,536.97 + $396,864.00 + $136,740.10 + $135,372.70) be funded from capital account 083-5350-24408-005 with available budget of $1,299,900; and,
  7. That the budget shortfall in the amount of $339,613.77 be funded from Stormwater Fee Reserve; and further,
  8. That Staff be authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to this resolution.
  Carried

8.3

AWARD OF CONTRACT #012-R-24 JANITORIAL AND CARPET CLEANING SERVICES FOR VARIOUS CITY LOCATIONS (7.0)

• Moved by Councillor Amanda Collucci
  Seconded by Councillor Isa Lee
  1. That the report entitled “Award of Contract #012-R-24 Janitorial and Carpet Cleaning Services for Various City Locations” be received; and,
  2. That the contract be awarded to the highest ranked / lowest priced bidder, Kleenway Building Maintenance, for a term of four years in the total amount of $3,153,233.44 inclusive of HST as per the following;
     Year 1 - June 1, 2025 - May 31, 2026 - $ 788,308.36
     Year 2 - June 1, 2026 - May 31, 2027 - $ 788,308.36
     Year 3 - June 1, 2027 - May 31, 2028 - $ 788,308.36
     Year 4 - June 1, 2028 - May 31, 2029 - $ 788,308.36
     Total: $ 3,153,233.44; and,
     
     Pricing will be firm for the initial two years of the contract ending May 31, 2027 and year 3 commencing June 1, 2027 will be subject to Consumer Price Index (CPI) increase to a maximum of 3%; and,
  3. That the contract includes an option for the City (in its sole discretion) to extend the contract for up to four additional years to be exercised in two (2) year periods. Pricing will be subject to CPI increase to a maximum of 3% if the extension is exercised on June 1, 2029 and again on June 1, 2031 for a total maximum increase of 9% over 8 years if extension years are exercised; and,
  4. That the Director of Sustainability & Asset Management and Senior Manager of Procurement & Accounts Payable be authorized to extend the contract for an additional four years, in two (2) year periods, subject to adoption of the annual operating budget, vendor performance; and,
  5. That the annual amount of $788,308.36 (inclusive of HST) be funded from various operating accounts; and,
  6. That the award amounts in 2026 to 2033 be subject to Council adoption of the respective annual operating budgets; and,
  7. The 2025 annual budget shortfall of $125,465.36 be reported as part of the year end results of operations and that the future departmental operating budgets be adjusted accordingly, subject to approval of the 2026-2033 operating budgets; and further,
  8. That staff be authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to this resolution.
  Carried

8.4

AWARD OF CONTRACT #164-R-24 SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF BRANDED MERCHANDISE AND WORKPLACE APPAREL (7.12)

• Moved by Councillor Amanda Collucci
  Seconded by Councillor Isa Lee
  1. That the report entitled “Award of Contract #163-R-24 Supply and Delivery of Branded Merchandise and Workplace Apparel” be received; and,
  2. That the contract be awarded to the lowest priced, highest ranked bidder, Five Star Enterprise, for a term of two years in the total amount of $410,686 inclusive of HST as per the following;
     April 1, 2025 - March 31, 2026 - $ 205,343.00
     April 1, 2026 - March 31, 2027 - $ 205,343.00
     Total: $ 410,686; and,
  3. That the contract includes an option for the City (in its sole discretion) to extend the contract for up to two additional years. Pricing will be firm for the initial term of the contract (April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2027), and options to extend in years 3-4 (April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2027) will be subject to Consumer Price Index (CPI) increase to a maximum of 2%; and,
  4. That the Director of Recreation and Senior Manager of Procurement & Accounts Payable be authorized to extend the contract for an additional two years subject to adoption of the annual operating budget, vendor performance, and an increase based on the CPI to a maximum of 2%; and,
  5. That the annual amount of $205,343.00 (inclusive of HST) be funded from various operating accounts as illustrated in the financial considerations section; and,
  6. That the award amounts in 2026 to 2029 be subject to Council adoption of the respective annual operating budgets; and further,
  7. That staff be authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to this resolution.
  Carried

8.5

MINUTES OF THE SEPTEMBER 9 AND DECEMBER 2, 2024 RACE RELATIONS COMMITTEE (16.0)

• Moved by Councillor Amanda Collucci
  Seconded by Councillor Isa Lee
  1. That the minutes and notes of the September 9 and December 2, 2024 Race Relations Committee be received for information purposes.
  Carried

8.6

MINUTES OF THE NOVEMBER 6, 2024 SANTA CLAUS PARADE ORGANIZING COMMITTEE (16.0)

• Moved by Councillor Amanda Collucci
  Seconded by Councillor Isa Lee
  1. That the minutes and notes of the November 6, 2024 Santa Claus Parade Organizing Committee be received for information purposes.
  Carried

8.7

MINUTES OF THE NOVEMBER 28, 2024 MARKHAM ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (16.0)

• Moved by Councillor Amanda Collucci
  Seconded by Councillor Isa Lee
  1. That the minutes and notes of the November 28, 2024 Markham Environmental Advisory Committee be received for information purposes.
  Carried

8.8

MINUTES OF THE JANUARY 20 AND FEBRUARY 24, 2025 ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON ACCESSIBILITY (16.0)

• Moved by Councillor Amanda Collucci
  Seconded by Councillor Isa Lee
  1. That the minutes and notes of the January 20 and February 24, 2025 Advisory Committee on Accessibility be received for information purposes.
  Carried

8.9

MINUTES OF THE JANUARY 27, 2025 MARKHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD (16.0)

• Moved by Councillor Amanda Collucci
  Seconded by Councillor Isa Lee
  1. That the minutes and notes of the January 25, 2025, Markham Public Library Board be received for information purposes.
  Carried

9.

CONSENT REPORTS - ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY MATTERS

9.1

THE MECP - MARKHAM DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM - DRINKING WATER INSPECTION REPORT, JANUARY 30, 2025 (5.3)

• Moved by Councillor Reid McAlpine
  Seconded by Deputy Mayor Michael Chan
  1. That the report entitled “The MECP – Markham Distribution System – Drinking Water Inspection Report, January 30, 2025” be received; and further,
  2. That Staff be authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to this resolution.

   

  Carried

10.

PRESENTATIONS - COMMUNITY SERVICES MATTERS

10.1

CITY PARKS AND PUBLIC PROPERTIES BY-LAW (5.0)

Alice Lam, Director of Operations, introduced the new City Parks and Public Properties By-law as an update and consolidation of the existing Parks By-Law and Town Owned Property By-Law into one comprehensive by-law.

David Plant, Senior Manager of Parks, Horticulture, and Forestry, provided a presentation on the draft City Parks and Public Properties By-Law and highlighted the proposed changes in the new by-law.

The Committee made the following comments:

• Requested that the policy governing the use of bicycles, e-bikes, and scooters be deferred in light of upcoming revisions to the Transportation Master Plan, which will address e-mobility.
• Requested clarification on how the new by-law will impact public use of parks and how the by-law will be enforced.
• Expressed concerns on incidents involving fireworks that resulted in damages to public property and natural areas and suggested establishing designated locations for fireworks to ensure its safe use.
• Requested for clarification on whether gatherings of 25 or more patrons require a permit and cited incidences at Box Grove Community Park involving daycares and summer camps operating in the park.
• Expressed a need for a permitting process for instances of the commercial use of parks to ensure proper use of equipment and amenities and allow the City to track organized activities.
• Requested that park signage be double-sided to ensure they are visible from either side to patrons.

• Moved by Councillor Karen Rea
  Seconded by Councillor Amanda Collucci
  1. That the report entitled “City Parks and Public Properties Bylaw” be received; and further,
  2. That Staff be authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to this resolution.
  Carried

10.2

PARTNERSHIP IN EDUCATION (3.0)

Chris Nearing, Fire Chief, introduced this item as related to a scholarship initiative between Seneca College and the City of Markham with a donation of two fire apparatus to Seneca College and outlined the City of Markham Scholarship.

The Committee made the following comments:

• Requested clarification on the training provided at Seneca College and how it aligns with the training that Markham Fire & Emergency Services provides to new firefighters.
• Sought clarification on the eligibility criteria for the scholarship, emphasizing that the scholarship is intended to support prospective students from racialized backgrounds or those facing socio-economic challenges in obtaining the education and certifications required to become a firefighter in Ontario.
• Requested further details on who would be eligible to receive the scholarship.
• Inquired about the status of the previously donated fire apparatus to Humber College. Staff confirmed that the scholarship associated with Humber College is coming to an end and that the City has now entered into a new partnership with Seneca College.
• Asked whether there would be any liability to the City in donating the fire apparatus. Staff confirmed that the fire apparatus is sold “as-is,” with no associated liability, and that a legal agreement is entered into to document this understanding.
• Confirmed that the City of Markham branding will be removed from the trucks and suggested the possibility of co-branding the vehicles with both the City of Markham and Seneca College logos.

• Moved by Councillor Reid McAlpine
  Seconded by Mayor Frank Scarpitti
  1. That the Chief Administrative Officer be authorized to execute this, and any future Donation Agreement related to fire education, between the City of Markham and Seneca College, or other entity, and any and all associated documents, upon satisfactory review by the City Solicitor.
  Carried

11.

REGULAR REPORTS - FINANCE & ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS

11.1

BUILDING MARKHAM'S FUTURE TOGETHER (BMFT) 2020 - 2026 STRATEGIC PLAN UPDATE (16.23)

Bryan Frois, Senior Manager, Executive Operations & Strategic Initiatives, presented an update on the Building Markham's Future Together (BMFT) 2020-2026 Strategic Plan.

Andy Taylor, Chief Administrative Officer, thanked Mayor and Councillors for their input and to the revised BMFT Strategic Plan.

Cajaanan Jeyanathan, Coordinator, Strategy and Executive Operations, outlined the summary of results for the 2024 Citizen Satisfaction Survey.

The Committee made the following comments:

• Requested that the three columns in the report be presented to show how the accomplishments relate to the key actions.
• Suggested that for the 2025 update report, the accomplishments should be clearly tied to key actions to help identify gaps, areas that are still in progress, and those that have not yet been addressed.
• Recommended using colour coding to differentiate between items that are completed and those still in progress.
• Noted that the percentage of people living within 500 meters of transit has decreased, despite expectations that the figure would remain stable or increase due to the influx of new residents and the ongoing growth in intensification areas located near public transit. Staff confirmed that this data was provided by the World Council on City Data (WCCD) and will follow-up with a clarification on the results of that finding.

• Moved by Mayor Frank Scarpitti
  Seconded by Councillor Isa Lee
  1. That the report entitled Building Markham’s Future Together (BMFT) 2020 – 2026 Strategic Plan Update be received; and further,
  2. That Staff be authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to this resolution.
  Carried

11.2

AUDITOR GENERAL - UPDATE (7.0)

General Committee voted on this item together with item 4.1.

• Moved by Mayor Frank Scarpitti
  Seconded by Councillor Andrew Keyes
  1. That the following updates from the Auditor General be received:
     1. Fleet Operations Audit;
     2. Cornell Community Park - Lessons Learned Review;
     3. Auditor General - Follow Up Report;
     4. Contact Centre Review - Final Report be received; and further,
  2. That staff be authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to this resolution.
  Carried

11.3

"BUY CANADIAN" PROCUREMENT STRATEGIES (7.0)

Joseph Silva, Treasurer, introduced the item as related to a motion from General Committee at the March 7, 2025 General Committee meeting for staff to examine the City's procurement practices and prepare a report on a "Buy Canadian" procurement policy.

Andrew Baldwin, Director of Economic Development, provided an presentation outlining the current state of the US Canadian tariffs, the impacts of tariffs to Markham's businesses, and the response plan from Markham's Economic Development office.

Alex Moore, Senior Manager, Procurement & Accounts Payable, provided a presentation on the proposed "Buy Canadian" procurement strategy, impacts to current contracts from the tariffs imposed, and outlined the definition of a Canadian businesses.

The Committee made the following comments:

• Inquired whether NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement) is still in effect given recent actions by the United States (U.S.) government that appear to be non-compliant. Staff confirmed that the City is currently abiding by the rules outlined in CETA (Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement) with the European Union and CFTA (Canadian Free Trade Agreement) and are not directly subject to the provisions of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).
• Thanked staff for the quick turnaround on the report and asked whether it would be possible to exclude U.S. companies from the open bidding process while keeping it open to European Union (EU) companies.
• Read an email referencing a municipality that has implemented a "Canada First" policy by banning U.S. companies from bidding on municipal contracts, and expressed support for taking a similar approach in the City Markham.
• Expressed concern about banning U.S. companies with a significant presence in Canada. Noted that the U.S. is the largest foreign investor in City of Markham, more so than in any other municipality, and that these companies have contributed to job creation and economic prosperity in the community. Suggested the need to carefully define the threshold and avoid excluding companies that operate locally and contribute to the local economy.
• Outlined the current definition of a Canadian business and noted it is not overly restrictive. Emphasized that the intent is to use this as a threshold level aligned with CEFTA and below-CETA levels, and to include evaluation criteria that award points to qualifying businesses.
• Questioned why the policy needs to be permanent and suggested it could be a temporary or phased approach.
• Emphasized the importance of including established companies with a local presence, based on Ontario definitions, without being overly restrictive to Canadian businesses.
• Pointed out that U.S. based companies operating in Canada could qualify under a broader definition that includes headquarters, main offices, or significant operational presence in Canada.
• Commented that businesses with fewer than 250 employees should be eligible, and questioned whether the 250-employee threshold was too high. Staff confirmed that the threshold is based on the Province of Ontario’s definition, but could be reviewed and potentially lowered.
• Suggested the policy should not only prioritize Canadian companies but also remain open to companies from countries that are signatories to CETA, including European and Asian nations. Warned that restricting bids to Canadian companies could lead to increased costs and reduced innovation. Proposed refining the policy to allow more choice and minimize negative impacts.
• Expressed concern that the policy appears to be anti-U.S., and stated that the goal should be to promote Canadian businesses.
• Referred to the reports included in the agenda and asked whether the listed contractors are Canadian companies. Expressed an interest in working with contractors that prioritize the use of locally sourced materials.
• Opposed the idea of removing the American flag from City facilities. Spoke about the strong ties between the Markham business community and the U.S., including cross-border economic activity. Noted that American tourists are among the top visitors to the area, contributing significantly to the local economy, and emphasized the importance of acknowledging U.S. investment and the integrated nature of the North American economy.

The Committee welcomed the Procurement & Accounts Payable Staff and thanked them for their work.

The Committee consented to the changes to the definition of a Canadian businesses to include "operations".

• Moved by Councillor Karen Rea
  Seconded by Mayor Frank Scarpitti
  1. That the report “Buy Canadian” Procurement Strategies be received; and,
  2. That Council approve in principle, a “Buy Canadian” approach in the City’s procurement of goods and services, where feasible and in the best interest of the City, and in compliance with applicable trade agreements and legislation; and,
  3. That the Senior Manager, Procurement, as approved by the City Treasurer and in consultation with the City Solicitor or their designate, be authorized to implement (as a temporary measure in response to U.S. tariffs) amendments to the City’s Procurement By-law and associated policies and procedures to give effect to the “Buy Canadian” approach noted under Recommendation #2, including, but not limited to:
     a.    Amendment of Part II - Methods of Procurement, Sections 5.1, 6.1 and 8.1 and Appendix A of Procurement By-Law 2017-8 to increase the open procurement dollar thresholds to match the dollar thresholds applicable to municipalities under the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA), to enable Staff to procure goods and services directly from Canadian vendors below the thresholds; 
     b.    Inclusion of the requirement or preference, where feasible, in the best interests of the City and in compliance with the City’s trade agreement obligations, for the procurement of Canadian goods and services; and,
  4. That the Senior Manager, Procurement and the applicable Director, with approval from the City Solicitor and City Treasurer (or their designates), be authorized to amend or establish contracts for goods and services, as required, to manage the impacts of tariffs on costs and supply chains and ensure continuity of business operations in compliance with the City’s Expenditure Control Policy; and further,
  5. That Staff be authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to this resolution.
  Carried

12.

MOTIONS

12.1

AMENDMENTS TO BYLAW 77-93 - A BY-LAW TO PROVIDE FOR THE ANNUAL REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS FOR THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF COUNCIL (8.0) (11.0)

Note: The notice of this motion was given to the General Committee at its meeting held on March 4, 2025.

Councillor Juanita Nathan declared a conflict on the item and did not vote on clause 2 of the recommendation. The Committee consented to vote on the clauses separately.

Regional Councillor Joe Li introduced a motion to amend By-law 77-93, to ensure that Members of Council are not penalized when moving on to higher office by not being able to collect their severance, and thus discourage Member of Council from running for federal or provincial office.

The Committee made the following comments:

• Requested that the motion be referred back to staff for a comprehensive report, including a review of practices in other municipalities and be brought to the June 3rd General Committee meeting.
• Commented on whether severance should be provided in such cases and suggested that the policy be reviewed in that context.
• Spoke against deferring the motion, noting that a delay may discourage current Members of Council from seeking higher office and could result in additional costs for the City, particularly if a by-election is required.
• Requested for an examination of any archived reports associated with the original by-law regarding severance for Members of Council, including the reasoning and arguments presented at that time, and historical context on why the policy was changed.
• Suggested that a severance policy should be standardized across the Province and dictated by provincial legislation to ensure consistency across all municipalities.
• Expressed that a timely decision should be communicated to the deputant, Mr. Kanapathi, confirming whether he would be eligible to receive a severance for his time as Ward 7 Councillor.
• Inquired about the budget implications of passing this motion and how it might impact the City's finances. Staff confirmed that annual financial accruals are made in case a Member of Council qualifies for severance. However, staff also noted that there are limits to how much can be accrued , which may present a risk of additional fiscal exposure if the policy is to be applied retroactively.

• Moved by Councillor Karen Rea
  Seconded by Councillor Reid McAlpine
  1. That this motion be referred to staff for a comprehensive report and report back at the next General Committee meeting on June 3, 2025.
  Lost
• Moved by Regional Councillor Joe Li
  Seconded by Councillor Ritch Lau
  1. That By-law 77-93 (A By-law to provide for the annual remuneration and benefits for Mayor and Members of Council) Section 11, Subsection 8 be deleted; and further,
  2. That this amendment not be applied retroactively.
  Lost

13.

NOTICES OF MOTION

There were no notices of motion.

14.

NEW/OTHER BUSINESS

Regional Councillor Joe Li requested for clarification on the legislation surrounding a vacancy on Municipal Council, the Council Vacancy Policy, and the appointment process for a vacancy of Member of Council. 

Kimberley Kitteringham, City Clerk and Director of Legislative Services, summarized the Council Vacancy Policy and clarified how the appointment process is outlined as per the policy. Ms. Kitteringham emphasized that Council has the discretion to choose the specific appointment process and noted previous instances of the use of the appointment process to fill a vacancy on City of Markham Council. 

15.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

There were no announcements.

16.

CONFIDENTIAL ITEMS

General Committee convened into Confidential Session at 11:19 AM. General Committee convened back into Confidential Session at 4:28 PM to discuss a new item introduced by Mayor Frank Scarpitti (Item 16.2) and reported out on the item as outlined below.

• That Committee waive Section 5.4(c) of the City's Procedural By-law 2017-5 to allow for the item titled as, "Confidential OLT Appeal Update RE: The Markville Mall Official Plan Amendment Application" be considered at today's meeting.

  Carried by a Two Thirds Vote
• That, in accordance with Section 239 (2) of the Municipal Act, General Committee resolve into a confidential session to discuss the following matters:

  Carried

16.1

FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION MATTERS

16.1.1

GENERAL COMMITTEE CONFIDENTIAL MINUTES - MARCH 4, 2025 (16.0) [MUNICIPAL ACT, 2001, Section 239 (2) (c)]

16.1.2

CYBER SECURITY REPORT BY THE AUDITOR GENERAL (7.0) (INFORMATION EXPLICITLY SUPPLIED IN CONFIDENCE TO THE MUNICIPALITY OR LOCAL BOARD BY CANADA, A PROVINCE OR TERRITORY OR A CROWN AGENCY OF ANY OF THEM;)

[MUNICIPAL ACT, 2001, Section 239 (2) (h)] 

16.2

CONFIDENTIAL OLT APPEAL UPDATE RE: THE MARKVILLE MALL OFFICIAL PLAN AMENDMENT APPLICATION (10.3) (LITIGATION OR POTENTIAL LITIGATION, INCLUDING MATTERS BEFORE ADMINISTRATIVE TRIBUNALS, AFFECTING THE MUNICIPALITY OR LOCAL BOARD; 

ADVICE THAT IS SUBJECT TO SOLICITOR-CLIENT PRIVILEGE, INCLUDING COMMUNICATIONS NECESSARY FOR THAT PURPOSE;) [MUNICIPAL ACT, 2001, Section 239 (2) (e) (f)]  (10.3)

1. That Staff be directed to bring forward a report on the Markville Mall Official Plan Amendment application to the Special Development Services Committee Meeting on Tuesday, April 22nd at 7:00 pm.

17.

ADJOURNMENT

• Moved by Councillor Karen Rea
  Seconded by Councillor Juanita Nathan

  That General Committee adjourn at 6:45 PM.

  Carried