The Brantford Record

Committee of the Whole - Planning and Administration

October 14, 2025

Who was there

Present (11): Gino Caputo, Richard Carpenter, Kevin Davis, Linda Hunt, Greg Martin, Dan McCreary, Mandy Samwell, Rose Sicoli, John Sless, Michael Sullivan, Brian Van Tilborg

Taken from the roll call in the town’s own minutes. The minutes record who was not there and almost never why.

What was decided (18 motions)

16 carried, 2 recorded otherwise. Every motion below is printed as the minutes print it.

THAT all Items for Consideration/Consent (7.1 and 7.2) not separated for discussion purposes BE APPROVED. Recorded vote on all items not separated: Yes (10) Councillor Sless, Councillor Carpenter, Councillor McCreary, Councillor Van Tilborg, Councillor Martin, Councillor Sicoli, Councillor Hunt, Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Caputo, and Councillor Samwell
Moved by Councillor Sless, seconded by Councillor Caputo
Carried
​THAT Section 15.6.2(d)(i) 1 of the City of Brantford Municipal Code BE WAIVED to add a delegate past the 9:00 a.m. deadline. Yes (9) Councillor Sless, Councillor McCreary, Mayor Davis, Councillor Van Tilborg, Councillor Martin, Councillor Sicoli, Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Caputo, and Councillor Samwell No (2) Councillor Carpenter, and Councillor Hunt
Moved by Councillor Caputo, seconded by Councillor Sless
Carried
THAT all Items for Consideration/Consent Items (7.1 and 7.2) separated for discussion purposes BE APPROVED. The items were voted on individually and
Moved by Councillor Carpenter, seconded by Councillor Hunt
Carried
In favour (9): Mayor Davis, Councillor Sicoli, Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Martin, Councillor McCreary, Councillor Carpenter, Councillor Hunt, Councillor Samwell, Councillor Van Tilborg · Opposed (2): Councillor Caputo, Councillor Sless
AMENDMENT to item 7.1.1: That staff be directed to meet with the property owner and their engineering consultant to review and discuss the submitted traffic study and associated site access concerns, including the proposed location and integration of the multi-use trail, with the goal of collaboratively identifying design or operational solutions that address traffic safety, access, circulation, and active transportation infrastructure while adhering to City standards and policies. That, as part of this process, staff consider referring the matter to the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO) for input and direction regarding the need for a turning lane and the potential for future extended lanes along the corridor. That staff report back to Council with an updated, evidence-based assessment that incorporates technical input from the developer’s consultants and, if applicable, the MTO, to ensure a balanced and coordinated approach to traffic management, safety, and the integration of the multi-use trail. Yes (5) Councillor Sless, Councillor McCreary, Councillor Sicoli, Councillor Sullivan, and Councillor Caputo No (6) Councillor Carpenter, Mayor Davis, Councillor Van Tilborg, Councillor Martin, Councillor Hunt, and Councillor Samwell
Moved by Councillor Caputo, seconded by Councillor Sless
Lost
McCreary Amendment: THAT the folllowing be ADDED as clause B: B. That the City of Brantford request's that the federal government introduce meaningful bail reform to better protect the innocent victims of intimate partner violence. And a copy of this resolution be sent to the federal government and MP Larry Brock. Recorded vote on item 8.1: Yes (11) Councillor Sless, Councillor Carpenter, Councillor McCreary, Mayor Davis, Councillor Van Tilborg, Councillor Martin, Councillor Sicoli, Councillor Hunt, Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Caputo, and Councillor Samwell
Moved by Councillor Martin
Carried
McCreary WHEREAS buildings and properties within the City become vacant for a variety of reasons; and WHEREAS vacant and derelict buildings and properties can negatively impact neighbourhood character and atmosphere; and WHEREAS vacant and derelict buildings and properties can create a risk to the health and safety of the City’s residents as well as emergency services and other responders who address complaints stemming from vacant properties; and WHEREAS numerous complaints are fielded every week by the City of Brantford with respect to vacant and derelict buildings and properties throughout the City; and WHEREAS the rate of complaints received or emergency service calls can at times burden the City’s resources; and WHEREAS long-term vacancy and property neglect also contribute to reduced housing availability, displacement of tenants, deterioration of neighbourhoods, and increased real estate speculation; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: THAT Staff BE DIRECTED to review the following documents: Property Standards By-law Vacant Buildings By-law and registry Demolition Control By-law 156-2019 Property tax classification and credits Other legislation, by-laws, and policies which may be appropriate. THAT Staff BE DIRECTED to report back to Council by the end of the first quarter of 2026, with respect to: The intent and function of the above noted by-laws, or legislation and policies as applicable; The effectiveness of said by-laws, legislation and/or policy on reducing the vacancy
Moved by Councillor Samwell
Carried
WHEREAS Terry Fox’s journey to run across Canada came through Brantford on July 15,1980; and WHEREAS Terry Fox entered through the East end of the city, heading westbound along Colborne Street, Dalhousie Street and Brant Avenue; and WHEREAS Brantford was slightly off course, Terry Fox was hosted at the Holiday Inn for a reception and presentation in the city, and continued his Journey the next day; and WHEREAS Terry Fox, who
Moved by Councillor Sullivan, seconded by Councillor Sicoli
Carried
In favour (11): Mayor Davis, Councillor Sicoli, Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Caputo, Councillor Sless, Councillor Martin, Councillor McCreary, Councillor Carpenter, Councillor Hunt, Councillor Samwell, Councillor Van Tilborg
WHEREAS The City of Brantford recognizes that homelessness, encampments, mental health crises, and substance use disorders are complex, systemic challenges that require compassionate, comprehensive, and coordinated responses from municipal, provincial, and federal governments; and WHEREAS Encampments in urban areas can pose risks to public health, safety, sanitation, and environmental integrity, and can strain municipal infrastructure and services; and WHEREAS Municipalities often lack sufficient financial, legislative, and programmatic resources to fully manage and respond to large-scale encampments in a humane and sustainable manner; and WHEREAS The RestoreOrder.ca petition (and associated campaign) proposes that the Government of Canada (and provincial governments) allocate additional funding, clarify municipal powers, and enact legal and policy reforms to restore safety, order, and dignity in communities; and WHEREAS The City of Brantford desires to express its support for the goals of RestoreOrder.ca and to urge higher levels of government to partner with municipalities in addressing the intertwined issues of homelessness, public safety, and service provision. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the City of Brantford Endorses the goals of RestoreOrder.ca, including calls for: a. Immediate additional funding from provincial and federal governments to expand shelter capacity, supportive housing, transitional housing, treatment hubs, mental health and addiction services. b. L
Moved by Mayor Davis, seconded by Councillor Samwell
Carried
​THAT Section 15.11.5 of Chapter 15 of the City of Brantford Municipal Code BE WAIVED in order to introduce the following Resolution without prior Notice of Motion: WHEREAS Brantford Transit has installed a new fare payment system as of October 6th, 2025 WHEREAS the new fare payment technology utilizes cash including bills and coins, smart cards (Brantford Connect Card) and an on-line (Brantford Connect App) for fare payment; and Whereas passengers wishing to utilize a timed transfer must use the Brantford Connect Card or the Brantford Connect App; and Whereas the customers paying cash are not eligible for a transfer and must pay for each boarding unless they use the Brantford Connect Card or Brantford Connect App. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: City staff be DIRECTED to: Institute new transfers for customers wishing to pay by cash including but not limited to: Create and institute a paper transfer system to allow cash-paying customers to transfer from bus to bus in the same fashion as with the Brantford Connect card and Brantford Connect App; and THAT costs to be within the current Transit operating budget; and THAT Paper Transfers to be in place no later than November 1st, 2025 Yes (9) Councillor Sless, Councillor Carpenter, Councillor McCreary, Mayor Davis, Councillor Van Tilborg, Councillor Hunt, Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Caputo, and Councillor Samwell No (2) Councillor Martin, and Councillor Sicoli
Moved by Councillor Van Tilborg, seconded by Councillor Samwell
Carried
THAT all Items for Consideration/Consent (7.1 and 7.2) not separated for discussion purposes BE APPROVED. Recorded vote on all items not separated: Yes (10): Councillor Sicoli, Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Caputo, Councillor Sless, Councillor Martin, Councillor McCreary, Councillor Carpenter, Councillor Hunt, Councillor Samwell, and Councillor Van Tilborg
Moved by Councillor Sless, seconded by Councillor Caputo
Carried
THAT Section 15.6.2(d)(i) 1 of the City of Brantford Municipal Code BE WAIVED to add a delegate past the 9:00 a.m. deadline. Yes (9): Mayor Davis, Councillor Sicoli, Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Caputo, Councillor Sless, Councillor Martin, Councillor McCreary, Councillor Samwell, and Councillor Van Tilborg No (2): Councillor Carpenter, and Councillor Hunt
Moved by Councillor Caputo, seconded by Councillor Sless
Carried
AMENDMENT to item 7.1.1: A. That staff be directed to meet with the property owner and their engineering consultant to review and discuss the submitted traffic study and associated site access concerns, including the proposed location and integration of the multi- use trail, with the goal of collaboratively identifying design or operational solutions that address traffic safety, access, 4 circulation, and active transportation infrastructure while adhering to City standards and policies. B. That, as part of this process, staff consider referring the matter to the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO) for input and direction regarding the need for a turning lane and the potential for future extended lanes along the corridor. C. That staff report back to Council with an updated, evidence- based assessment that incorporates technical input from the developer’s consultants and, if applicable, the MTO, to ensure a balanced and coordinated approach to traffic management, safety, and the integration of the multi-use trail. Yes (5): Councillor Sicoli, Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Caputo, Councillor Sless, and Councillor McCreary No (6): Mayor Davis, Councillor Martin, Councillor Carpenter, Councillor Hunt, Councillor Samwell, and Councillor Van Tilborg
Moved by Councillor Caputo, seconded by Councillor Sless
Lost
Amendment: THAT the folllowing be ADDED as clause B: B. That the City of Brantford request's that the federal government introduce meaningful bail reform to better protect the innocent victims of intimate partner violence. And a copy of this resolution be sent to the federal government and MP Larry Brock. Recorded vote on item 8.1: Yes (11): Mayor Davis, Councillor Sicoli, Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Caputo, Councillor Sless, Councillor Martin, Councillor McCreary, Councillor Carpenter, Councillor Hunt, Councillor Samwell, and Councillor Van Tilborg
Moved by Councillor Martin, seconded by Councillor McCreary
Carried
8 WHEREAS The Corporation of the City of Brantford engages in the acquisition and disposition of real estate; and, WHEREAS from time to time the Council of the Corporation of the City of Brantford conducts reviews of policies and practices to ensure effective and efficient delivery of services; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT staff BE DIRECTED to undertake a review of Corporate Policy 042 – Acquisition and Disposition of Interest in Lands Policy; and, THAT staff BE DIRECTED to present amendments and recommendations to this policy by the end of 2025, with consideration being given to: A. Restrictions on members of council, proponents and third parties respecting negotiation and lobbying around the acquisition and disposition of real estate; B. Practices respecting unsolicited offers to acquire or dispose of City lands; C. Clarification on the roles of council and staff related to the conduct of real estate transactions; D. Any other matters identified by staff to update and modernize this Policy. Recorded vote on item 8.2: Yes (11): Mayor Davis, Councillor Sicoli, Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Caputo, Councillor Sless, Councillor Martin, Councillor McCreary, Councillor Carpenter, Councillor Hunt, Councillor Samwell, and Councillor Van Tilborg
Moved by Councillor McCreary, seconded by Councillor Martin
Carried
In favour (11): Mayor Davis, Councillor Sicoli, Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Caputo, Councillor Sless, Councillor Martin, Councillor McCreary, Councillor Carpenter, Councillor Hunt, Councillor Samwell, Councillor Van Tilborg
WHEREAS buildings and properties within the City become vacant for a variety of reasons; and 9 WHEREAS vacant and derelict buildings and properties can negatively impact neighbourhood character and atmosphere; and WHEREAS vacant and derelict buildings and properties can create a risk to the health and safety of the City’s residents as well as emergency services and other responders who address complaints stemming from vacant properties; and WHEREAS numerous complaints are fielded every week by the City of Brantford with respect to vacant and derelict buildings and properties throughout the City; and WHEREAS the rate of complaints received or emergency service calls can at times burden the City’s resources; and WHEREAS long-term vacancy and property neglect also contribute to reduced housing availability, displacement of tenants, deterioration of neighbourhoods, and increased real estate speculation; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: A. THAT Staff BE DIRECTED to review the following documents: 1. Property Standards By-law 2. Vacant Buildings By-law and registry 3. Demolition Control By-law 156-2019 4. Property tax classification and credits 5. Other legislation, by-laws, and policies which may be appropriate. B. THAT Staff BE DIRECTED to report back to Council by the end of the first quarter of 2026, with respect to: 1. The intent and function of the above noted by-laws, or legislation and policies as applicable; 2. The effectiveness of said by-laws, legislation and/or policy on r
Moved by Councillor Samwell, seconded by Councillor McCreary
Carried
12 WHEREAS The City of Brantford recognizes that homelessness, encampments, mental health crises, and substance use disorders are complex, systemic challenges that require compassionate, comprehensive, and coordinated responses from municipal, provincial, and federal governments; and WHEREAS Encampments in urban areas can pose risks to public health, safety, sanitation, and environmental integrity, and can strain municipal infrastructure and services; and WHEREAS Municipalities often lack sufficient financial, legislative, and programmatic resources to fully manage and respond to large- scale encampments in a humane and sustainable manner; and WHEREAS The RestoreOrder.ca petition (and associated campaign) proposes that the Government of Canada (and provincial governments) allocate additional funding, clarify municipal powers, and enact legal and policy reforms to restore safety, order, and dignity in communities; and WHEREAS The City of Brantford desires to express its support for the goals of RestoreOrder.ca and to urge higher levels of government to partner with municipalities in addressing the intertwined issues of homelessness, public safety, and service provision. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED A. THAT the City of Brantford Endorses the goals of RestoreOrder.ca, including calls for:a. Immediate additional funding from provincial and federal governments to expand shelter capacity, supportive housing, transitional housing, treatment hubs, mental health and addiction services
Moved by Mayor Davis, seconded by Councillor Samwell
Carried
THAT Section 15.11.5 of Chapter 15 of the City of Brantford Municipal Code BE WAIVED in order to introduce the following Resolution without prior Notice of Motion: WHEREAS Brantford Transit has installed a new fare payment system as of October 6th, 2025 WHEREAS the new fare payment technology utilizes cash including bills and coins, smart cards (Brantford Connect Card) and an on-line (Brantford Connect App) for fare payment; and Whereas passengers wishing to utilize a timed transfer must use the Brantford Connect Card or the Brantford Connect App; and Whereas the customers paying cash are not eligible for a transfer and must pay for each boarding unless they use the Brantford Connect Card or Brantford Connect App. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: City staff be DIRECTED to: A. Institute new transfers for customers wishing to pay by cash including but not limited to: i. Create and institute a paper transfer system to allow cash- paying customers to transfer from bus to bus in the same fashion as with the Brantford Connect card and Brantford Connect App; and B. THAT costs to be within the current Transit operating budget; and C. THAT Paper Transfers to be in place no later than November 1st, 2025 17 Yes (9): Mayor Davis, Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Caputo, Councillor Sless, Councillor McCreary, Councillor Carpenter, Councillor Hunt, Councillor Samwell, and Councillor Van Tilborg No (2): Councillor Sicoli, and Councillor Martin
Moved by Councillor Van Tilborg, seconded by Councillor Samwell
Carried
Refer to staff to report back at Council to give options to accommodate cash users. Recorded vote on referal: 18 Yes (8): Mayor Davis, Councillor Sicoli, Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Sless, Councillor Martin, Councillor McCreary, Councillor Hunt, and Councillor Van Tilborg No (3): Councillor Caputo, Councillor Carpenter, and Councillor Samwell
Moved by Councillor McCreary, seconded by Councillor Martin
Carried
In favour (8): Mayor Davis, Councillor Sicoli, Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Sless, Councillor Martin, Councillor McCreary, Councillor Hunt, Councillor Van Tilborg · Opposed (3): Councillor Caputo, Councillor Carpenter, Councillor Samwell

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