Mayor's Update on Transit Strike, New Short Term Rentals By-Law, Graphic Images Motion
Dear Neighbours,
This Remembrance Day, we paid respect to the courage of all those who have served in the name of peace. It has been difficult time to reflect on peace and freedom when many wars are raging around the globe, acts of genocide and terror continue, and a constant barrage destroys our environment.
I join many of our neighbours who are walking with grief while also calling for an immediate ceasefire in Palestine and the release of hostages. A pause is not enough. Too many children and civilians have suffered and continue to suffer in the most horrific of ways. The bombardment must stop now to enable systems of care to rebuild.
In these times, especially, we should be encouraging listening and healthy dialogue - not labelling or silencing those who speak up. It is a time to act from our greatest values, not our worst fears.
One example of acting with our greatest values is the local Black community here in #OurWard3 and across Hamilton who have come together to support Black asylum seekers from war torn areas. I believe the federal government ought to be doing more to provide housing benefits to refugees. In the meantime, it is truly incredible to see collective community efforts in action.
As many of you know, our transit workers are on strike for the first time in 25 years. This is not where I had hoped we would be. Those who know me, understand how strongly I believe in workers' rights and how much I respect the collective bargaining process. I will continue to stand with workers in our city. I empathize deeply with our neighbours who rely on transit to get around our city. During negotiations with ATU 107, the Mayor will be the spokesperson for City Council and my office will be referring constituents to both her statements and hamilton.ca/transitstrike for more information.
Please do read through this newsletter for important updates from Council, about Ward specific initiatives, community events and more.
Yours in community,
Councillor Nrinder Nann
Image of City Hall and a floral planter Transparent white box in centre with navy text reads "Council & Committee Updates".
MAYOR’S UPDATE ON TRANSIT STRIKE
This past Thursday, Mayor Andrea Horwath provided an update on negotiations with the ATU Local 107 transit union, as service disruptions began across the city.
Talks between the parties ended on Tuesday, after the ATU Local 107 refused to lower its requested wage increase and rejected a set of strike protocols, which would have provided continued administration of Extended Health and Dental to transit workers and their families during the work stoppage and established guidelines for safe and respectful strike behaviour.
Mayor Horwath acknowledged the difficulties of a transit disruption and encouraged a quick return to service, but said it should not come at a greater price to Hamilton residents.
“I believe deeply in organized labour and in our workers. Our whole city does,” said Mayor Horwath. “But these negotiations are underpinned by facts that we cannot change.”
The ATU Local 107 has requested a wage increase of approximately 23% over the next four years, which would translate to $17 Million in wages that would have to be covered by increases to city transit fares or to property taxes, or both.
The City’s final offer, which the union declined, was a 12.75% increase over four years.
This offer was nearly identical to the one that was accepted by the City’s largest union, CUPE 5167, just a few months ago.
Mayor Horwath noted that the City of Hamilton engages in pattern bargaining, meaning that agreements extended to one union are used as the precedent for offers to our other unionized employees. A 23% increase for all 11 City of Hamilton unions would translate to more than $113 Million over the next four years.
Acting City Manager Carlyle Khan also provided an update, saying the city would be providing refunds on monthly transit pass holders and bulk ticket purchases, and is working to manage parking and traffic to reduce the impact on those moving around the city.
For more information about the transit strike, visit Hamilton.ca/TransitStrike
NEW SHORT-TERM RENTALS BY-LAW
The City of Hamilton’s Short-Term Rental By-Law was ratified by Council in January 2023, with enforcement commencing on January 1, 2024. This includes:
allowing residents with a licence to rent their own principal residence (this includes legal laneway homes, secondary suites) for short periods (no more than 28 nights consecutively)
Principal residence requirements:
a place where a person lives and designates as their principal residence on government records;
a person can only have one principal residence;
a corporation cannot have a principal residence;
commercial operators would not be permitted to operate a STR.
To meet the requirements of the new City by-law, starting December 1, 2023, Short-Term Rental Operators and Brokers will be required to apply for a municipal business licence to legally operate a short-term rental in their own principal residence.
Enforcement of the new Short-Term Rental (STR) by-law will begin January 1, 2024. This by-law introduces new licensing, fees, registration and inspection requirements, including limiting short-term rentals for operators and hosts to only their principal residence.
As of November 2022, there were 1,250 active STR listings in the City of Hamilton (per AirDNA data)
1,000 (80%) are entire homes/apartments
238 (19%) are private rooms within a residence
12 (1%) are shared rooms.
Fees are based on the cost of administering and enforcing the regulations, and to be revenue neutral, as well as based on cost recovery.
The STR by-law reflects our commitment to balance between the needs of the City of Hamilton and the evolving changes in travel and tourism, as well as meeting the City’s objectives of increasing housing supply, while also aiding homeowners with escalating housing costs.
For further information on the Short-Term Rentals Bylaw, its implementation and how to apply, please visit www.hamilton.ca/ShortTermRentals.
GRAPHIC IMAGES MOTION
Council ratified a motion directing staff to report back with recommendations in by-laws that would regulate the distribution and display of graphic images.
Many residents, including those in #OurWard3, have expressed concerns that unsolicited, non-commercial flyers showing graphic images of aborted fetuses are being delivered to properties across Hamilton.
These unsolicited flyers cause harm, including to children and youth who are exposed to the flyers while collecting the mail, as well as, to individuals who have experienced pregnancy loss.
Residents have also expressed concerns with the same graphic imagery being carried, held or displayed in public spaces, and that residents should have an opportunity to choose whether they wish to view such images.
As a result, Council provided the following direction:
1. That staff be directed to prepare a report for Planning Committee’s consideration no later than Q2 2024, on the feasibility of the City of Hamilton adopting and enforcing a by-law to regulate the distribution and display of graphic images
Requiring that flyers containing one or more images showing, or claiming to show, a fetus or any part of a fetus, conceal these images from view.
Requiring that these said flyers be fully concealed within a sealed envelope or package, and that the sealed envelope or package containing the graphic image be marked with the following notice and information:
the name and address of the person responsible for the delivery of the graphic image(s)
a warning that the envelope or package contains a graphic image that may be offensive or disturbing to some people
2. That the by-law to regulate the distribution and display of graphic images would not apply to:
mail that is delivered to a residence by Canada Post
material that is delivered to the residence at the request or with the consent of the addressee
3. That staff also be requested to explore the feasibility of regulating or prohibiting graphic imagery that is carried, held or displayed in public spaces.
I added an amendment directing staff to refer to the excellent correspondence submitted by Joyce Arthur, Executive Director of Abortion Rights Coalition of Canada to provide a summary analysis of the existing by-laws in over thirteen other Canadian cities, with a keen lens on how to prevent the display of the images near schools.
Image of the Ward from the Escarpment. Transparent white box in centre with navy text reads "Ward 3 Updates".
MYRTLE PARK UPDATE
In our previous update on Myrtle Park, we communicated that as part of the Encampment Protocol, two locations for 24/7 washroom access with cleaning and security were approved and funded. At that time, J.C. Beemer Park and Myrtle Park, were opened for use as of September 6, 2023 and September 14, 2023 respectively.
Since that time, residents have reached out to my office regarding ways to improve the security presence at the park, as well as, sharing misinformation that a safe injection site is in operation at Myrtle Park.
The Ward 3 team reached out to the City’s Outreach Team to address these concerns, and it was confirmed that the security officers, part of the City’s response to encampments, would provide safety for the 24/7 access of the hygiene facility in Myrtle Park. Instead of parking a vehicle in the park, security staff moved to use the clubhouse to preventing blocking the use of the park’s amenities. Staff also confirmed that sharps containers are managed by the security staff to ensure needles are not dropped in the park and instead disposed of safely. There is no Safe Injection Site or needle exchange program operating out of the park by the City.
Furthermore, it was identified that the locations for 24/7 washrooms will likely change over time due to winterization, maintenance, building conditions and other factors. The Myrtle Park washroom building is not winterized and will be closed this week.
Corktown Park is the new location for the 24/7 washroom service. Some minor upgrades have been completed there at the washroom building such as high-resolution lighting on the exterior, plumbing upgrades and heaters have been installed, making the washroom at Corktown Park winterized and ready for activation.
The security team will relocate from Myrtle Park to Corktown Park on Wednesday November 15, 2023, and this change will be communicated directly to residents living encamped by the City’s coordinated response team members.
NEW CROSSWALK LIGHT AT ALBERT ST. & MAIN ST. E
Improving safer routes to schools includes signalized crossings that halt vehicle traffic to enable children to cross roadways safely.
The new signalized crosswalk at Albert & Main helps reduce the crossing congestion at the Springer St signalized crosswalk during peak school times, ultimately enabling more active school routes for student populations accessing various schools in the area.
The signal was activated on October 25, 2023.
SHERMAN AVE ROAD RESURFACING & ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENTS
On October 24th, my office hosted a virtual public input meeting with City Staff on the Sherman Ave road works currently underway.
My office recorded the meeting and has made it available for residents. For those interested in watching, please visit: https://youtu.be/gLeFgHmTxW4
It should be noted that the design for this project has not been entirely finalized yet and the Sustainable Mobility Team working on this project is still looking for feedback. To have your say, or submit any questions you may have, please reach out to sustainable.mobility@hamilton.ca.
A photo with a Black Crossing Guard holding a stop sign in front of a school bus with children of all ages crossing a crosswalk. Transparent white box in centre with navy text reads "City Services Update".
GREY CUP STREET CLOSURES
Please find attached notification of the following temporary road closures to support the 2023 Grey Cup:
For more information on these and other temporary road closures, please visit http://hamilton.ca/roadclosures
EXPANDING SCHOOL CROSSING GUARDS’ DUTIES TO ALL
Recently, Ward 3 residents reached out to the Parking Enforcement and School Safety staff received requesting to review the possibility of our School Crossing Guards assisting all pedestrians during their assigned duty times.
The Parking Enforcement and School Safety Team reviewed several neighbouring municipalities’ programs and also undertook a review of the applicable legislation, namely the Highway Traffic Act, and Ontario Traffic Council Crossing Guard Guide.
Effective October 30, 2023, City of Hamilton Crossing Guards will assist all pedestrians as opposed to focusing on school-age pedestrians. This will align our program with our neighbouring municipalities services, and without any impact to operations, staffing or resources.
STORMWATER INCENTIVE PROGRAM
The City of Hamilton is inviting residents and property owners to provide input on a financial incentive program for properties that implement measures to reduce their impact on the stormwater system.
Currently, most stormwater funding comes from the City’s water and wastewater utility revenues. This means the amount a property contributes to stormwater management is based on the amount of drinking water consumed.
Starting in September of 2025, a stormwater fee will replace the current inequitable stormwater funding model. Properties will be charged based on the load (or use) they place on the stormwater system. Residential properties will pay based on the type of dwelling (e.g., single family detached dwellings, duplexes/townhomes, and multiplexes). Non-residential and large, multi-residential properties will pay based on their measured imperviousness (the amount of hard surface on their property).
When this new funding model is implemented, water and wastewater rates will be reduced as they will no longer be used to fund stormwater management activities, and the stormwater fee will be broken out as a separate line item on utility bills.
An incentive program will not only help property owners to reduce stormwater fees, but it will also encourage and support on-site stormwater management that better supports the natural water balance and protects the natural environment.
There will be an Open House at City Hall on November 15 from 6:30pm-8:30pm.
For more information and to provide your feedback, please visit the City’s website here.
CITY SERVICES REVIEW: FORESTRY & HORTICULTURE
The City of Hamilton strives to measure the services that our customers are receiving, and how effective we are at delivering those services. Hearing a range of perspectives will give us the opportunity to ensure that future planning of services aligns with our customer needs.
Currently the department of Forestry & Horticulture is seeking feedback from the public to help shape the plan, priorities and strategies for future levels of service.
To have your say and provide your feedback, you can access the survey here.
INFLUENZA & COVID-19 VACCINES AVAILABLE TO ALL HAMILTONIANS
With the respiratory virus season underway, Hamilton Public Health Services and local healthcare partners are recommending both influenza and COVID-19 vaccines for members of the general public.
Starting today, all Hamilton residents six months of age and over can access influenza and COVID-19 vaccines through participating local pharmacies, primary care and community partners, and Hamilton Public Health Services vaccine clinics. Pharmacies in Hamilton that are providing COVID-19 and influenza vaccines can be found at ontario.ca/vaccine-locations/. For more information about COVID-19 vaccines and to book an appointment for a COVID-19 vaccination at a Hamilton Public Health Services vaccine clinic, visit hamilton.ca/GetYourVaccine.
Vaccination is an important protective measure in both the prevention of the spread of COVID-19 and influenza and in reducing the risk of the serious complications of these respiratory infections.
MULTI-LAYERED APPROACH
Hamilton Public Health Services continues to urge Hamiltonians to remain vigilant and take a multi-layered approach to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses, using multiple measures in addition to vaccines.
Respiratory viruses are a common occurrence during the fall and winter months, and they include well-known viruses such as influenza (flu), common cold viruses (rhinoviruses) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Additionally, the COVID-19 virus remains a significant concern worldwide. A multi-layered approach highlights the importance of prevention, vaccination, symptom recognition, and responsible healthcare resource utilization.
To protect ourselves and others, Hamilton Public Health Services is emphasizing using all of these measures together:
Influenza and COVID-19 vaccination – Residents are encouraged to stay up-to-date with influenza vaccinations (flu shots) and COVID-19 vaccinations to support their immune system and reduce the risk of respiratory illnesses. Co-administration of COVID and flu vaccines is safe, effective and strongly recommended.
Respiratory etiquette – Follow proper respiratory etiquette by covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and dispose of used tissues promptly.
Screening - Screen for respiratory symptoms daily and stay home when sick.
Wear a mask - Consider wearing a tight-fitting, well-constructed mask in indoor public settings, especially if you are at higher risk of severe infection
Wash your hands - Practice good hand hygiene by washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially during times when you are likely to get and spread germs.
Clean and disinfect - Disinfecting shared surfaces and shared items is a crucial step in preventing the spread of a virus.
Speak with a healthcare provider - Speak to a professional healthcare provider in advance about treatments for COVID-19, influenza and Respiratory Syncytial Virus.
Through these preventive measures and by working together, we can ease pressure on our healthcare system and keep those who are most at risk safer.
For more information and updates, please visit hamilton.ca/covid.
QUICK FACTS:
Vaccine administration for ages 6 months to under 5 years old may vary from pharmacy to pharmacy. Contact the pharmacy before booking an appointment to confirm
Individuals should receive their next COVID-19 dose if it has been a recommended six months since their last dose or confirmed COVID-19 infection. Hamilton residents are encouraged to speak with a healthcare professional to help determine their appropriate vaccination schedule.
Starting in October 2023, Hamilton Public Health Services vaccine clinics, pharmacies and select healthcare providers began providing COVID-19 and influenza vaccines to Hamilton residents at high-risk of severe infections from these respiratory illnesses.
During the colder months, we see increased transmission of respiratory illnesses, including the flu, COVID-19 and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Individuals can learn more about current respiratory virus transmission in the community by accessing Hamilton Public Health Services weekly transmission summary at hamilton.ca/covid.
COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test kits can be picked up from select City of Hamilton locations. Residents can find the most up-to-date list of locations, and who can benefit from this program by visiting www.hamilton.ca/covidtesting
A photo of a person taking an online survey. Transparent white box in centre with navy text reads "Community Events & Opportunities".
WARD 3 OFFICE POP UP AT HELPING HANDS STREET MISSION - NOV 16TH
My office has been hosting Ward 3 Office Pop-Ups in the community across different neighbourhoods to connect one-on-one with neighbours. These community based office hours are a great way to connect in-person with my team and I on City issues, services, and ideas.
Many residents continue to share how much they appreciate connecting in this way, as not all of our neighbours have access to the internet or email and are not able to reach us in those ways.
Our next pop-up is scheduled for Thursday, November 16th from 4pm to 6pm at Helping Hands Street Mission (349 Barton St. E). Light refreshments will be provided. I look forward to connecting with you and offering access to the support of my team soon!
This is one of the last 2 pop-ups of the year, so be sure to save the date and attend.
HAMILTON ACORN x CITYLABS TENANT SURVEY
Students at CityLAB Hamilton have been working with Hamilton ACORN to look into the effects of extreme heat on Hamilton tenants. This work is being done in support of passing an adequate temperature by-law, as will be discussed in the Public Health Committee meeting this December.
They are conducting a survey of Hamilton tenants and their experiences with extreme heat. Please take a moment to share your input on their survey.
WOMEN ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH & FAMILY VIOLENCE PREVENTION MONTH
November is Women Abuse Prevention Month and Family Violence Prevention Month, and the 2023 theme is – 'It's in our control to end coercive control'. These awareness months provide a unique opportunity to bring awareness and collaboration in combating gender-based violence.
Intimate partner violence has been declared an epidemic in 30+ cities across Ontario, including Hamilton.
If you are looking for support, or more information on how you can prevent gender based violence, please use the Assaulted Women’s Helpline resources below:
Website - https://www.awhl.org/home
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/AssaultedWomensHelpline?mibextid=ZbWKwL
Instagram - https://instagram.com/assaulted_womens_helpline?igshid=MzMyNGUyNmU2YQ==
Also, if you are an organization looking for materials to share with your communities, please visit https://www.awhl.org/order-collateral-materials or contact Latoya Dwyer at ldwyer@awhl.org or 416-364-4144 ext. 224.
GALA HOLIDAY GATHERING - DECEMBER 2, 10AM-12PM
On Saturday December 2nd from 10am to noon, the GALA community will be meeting at 541 Eatery and Exchange to enjoy breakfast, gifts, and treats for everyone.
This gathering will also be a chance to spend some time planning GALA spring events, as well as enjoying time with our neighbours, friends and community partners.
Santa will be stopping by for pictures and gift-giving with children. Please join us for a fun holiday gathering! For more information or to confirm your attendance, please contact: galaherald@gmail.com.