Key decisions of Kitchener Council: Jan. 22, 2024

Council approves update to ticket disputing system

Kitchener Council approved the expansion of the Administrative Monetary Penalty System (AMPS), the system used to dispute tickets for by-law offences. Under the traditional Provincial Offences Act system, ticket holders must mail or visit the courthouse to dispute a ticket and there is limited opportunity for dispute resolution. The AMPS program moves the adjudication process from the court system to an internal dispute process which allows for alternative resolutions. City staff can now offer a screening meeting before a hearing is needed. This can include disputes about tickets for noise, fireworks, snow shoveling, animal regulations, graffiti, etc. Read the report online.

Council approves official plan and zoning amendments for 20 Woolner Trail

Council approved Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments for 20 Woolner Trail, where the Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB) will build a new high school on the 7.35-hectare site. Together with the Region of Waterloo and WCDSB, the City of Kitchener worked to address safety concerns, including adopting parking and stopping restrictions, reducing speed limits, adding crossing guards, installing a multi-use trail and considering additional traffic calming measures such as a pedestrian crossing. Read the report online.

Councillor Stretch swears oath of office

Ward 10 Councillor Stephanie Stretch swore her oath of office for Kitchener Council at a swearing-in ceremony on Jan. 22. On Jan. 8, Kitchener Council approved an appointment to fill the vacant seat in Ward 10. Stretch was the Ward 10 runner-up in the 2022 Municipal Election. The Ward 10 seat became vacant after former City Councillor, Aislinn Clancy, was elected to Provincial Parliament in December 2023. Read more online.

Kitchener declared Pet Friendly City

Kitchener has earned City Certification through the BETTER CITIES FOR PETS™ program, showcasing its commitment to creating a pet-friendly community. Local non-profit organization, Dog Friendly KW, led the assessment process with support from the City of Kitchener and The Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo & Stratford Perth.

“Kitchener is absolutely thrilled to be certified as Canada's first pet-friendly city, speaking to City Council's commitment to making Kitchener a great place to live, work and play,” said Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. “Our fast-growing and vibrant city is welcoming to all residents, including the beloved pets that enjoy our pet-friendly businesses, events and parks. Thanks to Dog-Friendly K-W for leading the assessment process to name Kitchener the first certified Pet-Friendly city in Canada.”