Key Decisions of Kitchener Council: Nov. 18, 2024

Key decisions of Council is a summary of major discussion items presented at Kitchener City Council meetings. It is circulated immediately following each meeting. Please refer to the minutes for an official record of the meeting.

Kitchener named bird-friendly city

Nature Canada has named Kitchener a bird-friendly city due to ongoing efforts to reduce critical threats to birds, population monitoring, education and stewardship. Representatives of the Kitchener Bird Team attended Council to announce the designation. The Kitchener Bird Team is generating enthusiasm for local bird conservation through a contest to name Kitchener’s official bird. Check out the finalist birds and vote here.

Kitchener names 2024 Artist in Residence

Council approved the appointment of Ellie Anglin as Kitchener’s 2024 Artist in Residence following the recommendation by the City’s Public Arts Working Group and Arts and Culture Advisory Committee. Anglin was selected through a public procurement process. The 2024 residency is a six-month opportunity focusing on creative writing, visual storytelling and experimental publication design. More information on Anglin’s residency will be shared on kitchener.ca/AIR.

Council approves new operating model for Conrad Centre

Council approved a new operating model for the Conrad Centre for the Performing Arts. The model considers the needs of the local performing arts community, audience members, the core competencies of venue management, and Council’s 2023 – 2026 strategic plan and long-term vision for culture and entertainment in Kitchener. Moving forward, the City will lead venue operations with the support of Green Light Arts – a non-profit arts organization. A City-led operating model will help staff meet the mandate of the Conrad Centre, while recognizing the needs of performing arts organizations and presenters. A mentorship services agreement between the City and Green Light Arts will be in effect until June 30, 2026.

Council advances construction of 640 residential units

Council approved zoning by-law amendments, and adopted and forwarded official plan amendment applications to the Region of Waterloo for approval, to permit the construction of:

• 120 rental units in an 8-storey building at 169-183 Victoria Street South.
• 456 units in a 45-storey tower at 864-876 King Street West.
• 64 units in stacked townhouses at 60 Trussler Road.

Heritage Kitchener to designate five properties

Council recognized the importance of our community’s cultural heritage by passing five Notices of Intent to Designate. These properties are listed on the City’s Municipal Heritage Register. Read the reports online.