Key decisions of Kitchener Council: Nov. 6, 2023

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.

Vision for Downtown Kitchener focuses on vibrancy, connection & belonging

Council approved a vision for downtown Kitchener created by a working group supported by staff and made up of dozens of residents from across the City. Downtown Kitchener is at a critical point in its evolution due to unprecedented growth, housing affordability challenges, social factors and the lingering effects of the pandemic on businesses. As a result of these converging factors, staff approached the community to shape a new vision for downtown Kitchener. The three guiding principles of the vision are:

1. Radiating vibrancy;
2. Cultivating connection; and
3. Belonging.

Read the full report here.

Lower Doon land use changes approved

Council approved a revised land use plan for the Lower Doon area of Kitchener. The land use changes in Lower Doon will update the area’s planning framework and designate part of Lower Doon as a cultural heritage landscape. Policies and guidelines will protect heritage features and manage growth and development in the neighbourhood densities. Staff engaged community members and stakeholders extensively before making recommendations to Council.

Council advances construction of variety of housing

Council approved applications to advance the construction of:

• 440 units in a 32-storey rental tower at 83-87 Weber St. East (approved at Special Council on Oct. 30)
• 77 units in a 11-storey, mixed use building at 2934 King Street East
• 373 units in two residential towers (14 and 22 storeys) at 1198 Fischer Hallman Road

Drinking water financial plan approved by Council

Council approved a drinking water system financial plan in accordance with the Safe Drinking Water Act. Kitchener operates and maintains Kitchener’s water distribution system. This system is financially viable and aligns with the Council-endorsed Water Infrastructure Program. Read the report here.