Published January 16, 2024

Word Count 47586 words

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Body: Council Type: Agenda Meeting: Regular Date: January 16, 2024 Collection: Council Agendas Municipality: South Frontenac

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Township of South Frontenac Council Meeting Agenda

TIME: DATE: PLACE:

7:00 PM, Tuesday, January 16, 2024 Council Chambers/Virtual Via Zoom .

Call to Order

That the Council Meeting of January 16, 2024 be called to order at ____ p.m

Declaration of pecuniary interest and the general nature thereof

Approval of Agenda

That the agenda be approved.

Scheduled Closed Session

Recess

Public Meeting

Delegations

Briefings

Representatives from Kingston Frontenac Public Library will be present to speak to Council regarding the Library Facilities Plan.

Approval of Minutes

That the minutes of the January 9, 2024 Council meeting be approved.

Reports Requiring Action

Options to fill vacancy for office of Councillor – Bedford District

4 - 150

151 158

159 167

That Council fill the vacancy for office of Councillor for Bedford District in accordance with one of the following options: Option 1: That Council fill the vacancy by appointing the Councillor candidate from the 2022 Municipal Election who received the third highest number of votes. or Option 2: That Council approve the appointment process outlined in Exhibit A of Report Number 2024-014; and That the process be utilized to administer an appointment process based on a general call for applicants to be considered by Council to fill the vacancy. or Option 3: That Council fill the vacancy by requiring a by-election to be held; and

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That Council approve an amount up to $75,000 from the Election Reserve to support the cost of a by-election. b)

Award of Tender # PS-2023-20 Opinicon Culvert Replacement

168 171

That Council accept the bid from Marathon Underground Constructors Corporation in the amount of $805,757.05 (net of HST credits) for Tender # PS- 2023-20 Opinicon Road Culvert Replacement; and That Council authorize a project budget increase in the amount of $102,800 which will be fully funded from cost savings on the recently completed Wilmer Road culvert replacement Capital Project 23-44 ($105,000 – Community Building Fund). c)

Electric Vehicle Charger Grant Applications

172 174

That Council support ChargeON and ZEVIP grant applications for the installation of electric vehicle chargers; That authorization be given to the Mayor and the Clerk to sign a transfer payment agreement for the funding of any grant applications that are successful; and That Council authorize a budget of $110,000 for this project to be funded from the Climate Action Reserve. 11.

Advisory Committee Reports or Minutes

Reports Requiring Approval of By-laws

2024 Interim Tax Levy

175 179

That By-law 2024-07 being a By-law to establish interim property taxes for 2024, be given first and second reading; and That By-law 2024-07 be given third reading, signed and sealed. b)

Zoning By-law Amendment Application PL-ZBA-2023-0133, Broome and Malloy, 4839 Noble Lane

180 186

That By-law 2024-08 being a By-law to amend the zoning on lands known at 4839 Noble Lane, Part of Lot 7, Concession 9, District of Storrington, Township of South Frontenac, be given first and second reading; and That By-law 2024-08 be given third reading, signed and sealed. 13.

Reports for Information

Lake Ecosystem Grants – Annual Report  This report provides Council with a summary of the projects completed with assistance from the Lake Ecosystem Grant Program.

187 190

3rd Quarter 2023 – Building Services Report  This report documents the delivery of Building Services within the Development Services Department between July 1, 2023, and September 30, 2023.

191 193

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3rd Quarter 2023 – Planning Services Report  This report documents the delivery of Planning Services within the Development Services Department between July 1, 2023, and September 30, 2023 (3rd Quarter, 2023).

Committee of the Whole

Information Items

Notice of Motions

Rise and Report regarding County Council and External Boards

County Council

Police Services Board

Cataraqui Conservation

Quinte Conservation

Rideau Valley Conservation Authority

Frontenac Community Arena Board

Announcements/Statements by Councillors

Closed Session (if requested)

Confirmatory By-law

That By-Law 2024-09, being a By-law to confirm generally all actions and proceedings of the Council of the Township of South Frontenac, be given first and second reading; and That By-Law 2024-09 be given third reading, signed and sealed.

Adjournment

That the Council meeting of January 16, 2024 be adjourned at ____. Natural, Vibrant and Growing - A Progressive Rural Leader

194 197

198

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Kingston Frontenac Public Library

Library Facilities Plan

Adopted by the Kingston Frontenac Public Library Board on September 21, 2022

Prepared by:

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Executive Summary The public library branch has never been more important. In addition to its historical roots as a place of research and learning, the modern library is a place that connects people through space regardless of socio-economic status. The spirit of learning continues through traditional books and reference materials but also to educate people in today’s technologically-driven world, bridging the digital divide and promoting pertinent aspects of our society such as physical and mental health, food security and food literacy, social justice, economic development and entrepreneurship, and so much more. The public library is a place where people come together and build communities around themselves by virtue of gathering in common areas and accessing library programs and services.

“I like that the library intentionally engages with people in different ways – activity kits, virtual programs, [and] audiobooks.” ~ Rideau Heights Branch User Comment

The dynamic nature of public libraries operating in the 21st Century requires progressive library systems to plan for and provide sufficient space to deliver the multi-faceted experience being sought by the public they serve. There is a common misconception that technology has reduced the need for library space but in fact the opposite is true – today’s libraries need more space to deliver more services and to do so in a manner that is inclusive. For example, modern libraries enable opportunities for arts and culture, economic development and productivity, wellness, general interest programs and more. By providing appropriate amounts of floor space, public libraries become important community focal points that facilitate learning, economic development, creativity, tolerance and civic placemaking for all people. P

Recognizing the role of the modern library, this Library Facilities Plan (LFP) renews the long-term vision for how Kingston Frontenac Public Library (KFPL) transforms its built space over the next 20 years based on the evolution of the County of Frontenac, the City of Kingston and the four Townships. The LFP specifically examines the need for new library space and potential improvements to existing libraries. KFPL serves 161,750 people living in its five member municipalities with a total of 16 branches that collectively provide a Gross Floor Area (GFA) of 130,184 square feet. Each branch serves a slightly different function based on the needs of the urban and rural communities that they serve. KFPL’s libraries offer collections, programs, services and amenities that are tailored to the diverse and geographically dispersed resident base.

Kingston Frontenac Public Library Facilities Plan Monteith Brown Planning Consultants Ltd. | MJMA Architecture & Design

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Page 7 of 198 KFPL operates “Urban Libraries” and “Rural Libraries” based on its historical models that precede its amalgamation as a Union Library system. The system-wide supply of library space translates into 0.8 square feet per capita which is necessary given its vast geographic territory as well as the needs generated by seasonal populations during the summer months and postsecondary students from out of town during the school year. Although KFPL’s GFA is predominantly concentrated in the City of Kingston, most of the Townships (with the exception of South Frontenac) offer a satisfactory level of space in relation to their populations.

Square Feet Per Capita

Library Space Per Capita by Municipality 0.93

0.87 0.61

0.75 0.37

Kingston

North Frontenac

Central Frontenac

South Frontenac

Frontenac Islands

The LFP’s Recommendations are focused on improving the user experience at existing libraries as well as retaining KFPL’s existing ratio of space to population over the next 20 years (at 0.8 square feet per capita). The Recommendations would assist KFPL serve current and future populations, maximize growth-related funding opportunities to be fiscally-responsible, and position individual branches to respond to the needs of their communities. The retention of KFPL’s existing level of service is supported by trends and best practices, but equally as important is reinforced by the feedback collected from the approximately 1,500 people who were directly engaged in the LFP planning process. Notable themes from the LFP consultations indicated a desire for KFPL to (among other things): • • • • • • • •

Keep pace with growth Connect library users to the outdoors Advance green and sustainable initiatives Provide welcoming and comfortable spaces Bridge the digital divide through access to technology Offer more multicultural / multilingual materials Provide a mix of space and access to holds lockers Create social connections

Kingston Frontenac Public Library Facilities Plan Monteith Brown Planning Consultants Ltd. | MJMA Architecture & Design

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Page 8 of 198 The Recommendations advanced in the LFP are summarized in the pages that follow.

System-Wide Recommendations Rec. #1

Plan for the construction of 10,000 square feet of new library space in the City of Kingston by the year 2041. This square footage has been recommended to be added through expansions to the Pittsburgh and Calvin Park branches.

Rec. #2

Plan for the addition of 10,000 square feet of new library space in the rural catchment area by the year 2041. This square footage has been recommended to be added through an expansion to the Storrington Branch along with replacement and reconstruction of the Hartington/Verona Branch and Sharbot Lake Branch.

Rec. #3

In line with best practices, applicable legislation and objectives of specific municipalities in Frontenac County, undertake audits of barrier-free accessibility considering persons with disabilities, neuro-diverse individuals and persons with other special needs - and energy efficiency for all branches that have not completed such an exercise in the past 5 years.

Rec. #4

Designs for new and renovated KFPL branches should have regard for the KFPL Library Board Ends Statement, namely to ensure that learning, inclusivity, creativity and community are enabled through library space.

Rec. #5

Engage Indigenous communities in the design of new and significantly renovated library projects with consideration to incorporating design elements and service spaces that reflect Indigenous cultures, knowledge and the unique needs of these communities. Mechanical systems should also be considered to allow smudging and other cultural practices while KFPL should also seek feedback from the Indigenous community to improve inclusivity in its existing spaces.

Rec. #6

Strive to engage equity-seeking populations in the design of new and significantly renovated library projects as well as conversations centred upon improved inclusivity in existing spaces. Under-represented populations included, but are not limited to, persons with disabilities and special needs (including neuro-diverse individuals), persons experiencing low-income or homelessness, culturally diverse and racialized populations, and members of the LGBTQ2S+ community.

Rec. #7

Continue to invest in technological infrastructure at KFPL libraries through expansion of Wi-Fi capabilities, high-speed internet, computer workstations and software, under carpet cabling, electrical outlets, and other needs that emerge as technologies evolve over time.

Rec. #8

Investigate opportunities to improve wayfinding signage along transportation corridors to enhance awareness and visibility of KFPL library buildings, particularly those that are embedded in neighbourhoods and remote locations.

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Kingston Branch Recommendations Rec. #9

Calvin Park Branch: Undertake selected improvements to the Calvin Park Branch including: courtyard enhancements through seating, shade, and play elements at a minimum; improved furnishings and aesthetics to the Teen Area; and adding individual study group collaboration space. In the longer-term (i.e. post-2031), expand Calvin Park Branch by a minimum of 2,800 square feet so that it provides a total Gross Floor Area of at least 16,000 square feet.

Also see LFP Page 64

Rec. #10

Isabel Turner Branch: Initiate a formal architectural process to reconfigure and renovate the Isabel Turner Branch. At a minimum, KFPL should explore opportunities to improve functionality for library users and staff by: − optimizing the library’s floor plan / layout through repositioning shelving and furniture to reclaim useable space for the public and programming, as well as generally improve the functional flow within the library; − refreshing aesthetics, furnishing and comfort elements within the branch including additional spaces for study along with indoor and outdoor seating; − enhancing barrier-free accessibility and general inclusivity; − adding a community kitchen, dedicated area for teens along with a makerspace; and − adding an enclosed outdoor reading garden adjacent to its eastern exterior stairwell along with seating and shade amenities that would support Library programs at the Lions Civic Gardens.

Also see LFP Page 66

Rec. #11

Pittsburgh Branch: Initiate a formal architectural process to expand the Pittsburgh Branch in a manner that it offers a minimum total Gross Floor Area of 12,000 square feet, thereby adding at least 7,000 square feet of space. Doing so will allow the library to address population growth attributable to planned residential developments east of the Cataraqui River along with greater use of the branch resulting from the Waaban Crossing transportation project. The architectural analysis should also investigate opportunities to maximize use of the heritage farmhouse including but not limited to enabling barrier-free access to its second floor.

Also see LFP Page 70

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Page 10 of 198 Rec. #12

Rideau Heights Branch: increase exterior signage and general visibility into the Rideau Heights Branch from its shared internal community centre corridor by replacing the solid doors with a glazed entranceway.

Also see LFP Page 73

North Frontenac Branch Recommendations Rec. #13

Cloyne Branch: Engage the Township of North Frontenac along with Kingston Frontenac Lennox & Addington Public Health, Limestone District School Board and any other prospective partners to determine if interest exists to construct a multi-service community hub. In the absence of interest in such a project, carry out improvements to the library’s overall accessibility, technological capacity as well as updating its washroom.

Also see LFP Page 79

Rec. #14

Plevna Branch: Focus collections services in Plevna more towards being a pick-up and drop-off service point and enabling greater online access. Initiatives to explore include the installation of holds lockers and re-assigning some of the space for collections to seating and technology.

Also see LFP Page 81

Central Frontenac Branch Recommendations Rec. #15

Arden Branch: Enhance accessibility for persons with disabilities along with improving outdoor seating areas, potentially in partnership with the Township of Central Frontenac as a revitalization of Kennebec Memorial Park.

Also see LFP Page 86

Rec. #16

Mountain Grove Branch: Integrate more comfortable seating and explore re-orientation of bookshelves to better optimize existing floor space within the Mountain Grove Branch.

Also see LFP Page 88

Rec. #17

Parham Branch: Provide additional in-branch furniture, namely seating for library users along with re-orienting bookshelves and the customer service desk to improve functionality for branch users and staff.

Also see LFP Page 90

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Rec. #18

Sharbot Lake Branch: Reconstruct the Sharbot Lake Branch to provide a minimum total Gross Floor Area of 5,000 square feet, amounting to 3,800 square feet above what is presently available. The recommended floor area would allow KFPL to enhance access to technology and library programs as well as address functional limitations with respect to barrier-free accessibility and storage. Should the support not exist to relocate and rebuild the library, KFPL should instead carry out a formal branch reconfiguration study to revisit the existing floor plan and identify alternative layouts that address similar results as being sought through a new build.

Also see LFP Page 92

South Frontenac Branch Recommendations Rec. #19

Hartington / Verona Branch: Replace the Hartington Branch with a new branch situated within the Verona settlement in order to situate library services closer to its primary base of users. The new Verona Branch should provide a total minimum Gross Floor Area of 5,000 square feet, thereby adding 4,000 square feet of net new library space within the existing catchment area.

Also see LFP Page 97

Rec. #20

Storrington Branch: Work with the Township of South Frontenac to carry out a second phase expansion to the Storrington Centre whereby the total Gross Floor Area of the Storrington Branch would be increased to 3,000 square feet, or approximately 2,500 square feet more than what is presently available.

Also see LFP Page 100

Rec. #21

Sydenham Branch: Develop an outdoor reading garden and/or program area to connect Sydenham Branch users to the natural beauty of Sydenham Lake.

Also see LFP Page 102

Frontenac Islands Branch Recommendations Rec. #22

Howe Island Branch: Install holds lockers outside of the Howe Island Branch.

Also see LFP Page 107

Rec. #23

Wolfe Island Branch: Enhance the Wolfe Island Branch’s outdoor presence so that the corner frontage along County Road 95 and Main Street features more prominently with landscaped elements and seating areas. Installation of holds lockers should also be pursued.

Also see LFP Page 109

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Table of Contents 1.0 Introduction ………………………………………………………………………………1 32T

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1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 32T

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The Importance of Libraries …………………………………………………… 1 Purpose of the Library Facilities Plan ……………………………………….. 2 Plan Methodology ………………………………………………………………… 3 KFPL’s Branches ……………………………………………………………………. 4 Community Snapshot…………………………………………………………… 13 Planning & Policy Framework ……………………………………………….. 18

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2.0 Community Engagement…………………………………………………………… 23 32T

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2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 32T

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Overview of Consultations……………………………………………………. 23 Community Survey ………………………………………………………………. 24 Community Open Houses …………………………………………………….. 27 Opinion Leader & Community Partner Feedback ……………………. 28 KFPL Staff Workshops………………………………………………………….. 30 Draft LFP Open Houses ………………………………………………………… 31

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3.0 Library Facility Trends ……………………………………………………………….. 33 32T

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3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 32T

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Libraries in an Evolving Urban Structure ………………………………… 33 New Forms of the Library Branch………………………………………….. 34 Outdoor Library Space …………………………………………………………. 39 Food & Food Security in the Library Setting …………………………… 40 Library Design Considerations ………………………………………………. 42 Impacts of COVID-19 …………………………………………………………… 45

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4.0 Planning Framework ………………………………………………………………… 47 32T

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4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7 32T

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Urban & Rural Branches……………………………………………………….. 47 Per Capita Rates of Provision ………………………………………………… 48 Comparisons to Other Library Systems…………………………………… 49 System-Wide Library Space Needs …………………………………………. 51 Spatial Analysis……………………………………………………………………. 56 KFPL Hours of Operation ……………………………………………………… 58 Recommendations ………………………………………………………………. 58

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Page 13 of 198 5.0 Kingston Branches ……………………………………………………………………. 61 32T

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5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 5.6

Central Branch ……………………………………………………………………. 62 Calvin Park …………………………………………………………………………. 64 Isabel Turner ………………………………………………………………………. 66 Pittsburgh…………………………………………………………………………… 70 Rideau Heights ……………………………………………………………………. 73 Recommendations - Kingston ……………………………………………….. 75

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6.0 North Frontenac Branches…………………………………………………………. 78 32T

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6.1 6.2 6.3

Cloyne ……………………………………………………………………………….. 79 Plevna ………………………………………………………………………………… 81 Recommendations – North Frontenac …………………………………… 83

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7.0 Central Frontenac Branches……………………………………………………….. 85 32T

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7.1 7.2 7.3 7.4 7.5

Arden ………………………………………………………………………………… 86 Mountain Grove………………………………………………………………….. 88 Parham ………………………………………………………………………………. 90 Sharbot Lake ………………………………………………………………………. 92 Recommendations – Central Frontenac …………………………………. 94

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8.0 South Frontenac Branches …………………………………………………………. 96 32T

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8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4

Hartington …………………………………………………………………………. 97 Storrington……………………………………………………………………….. 100 Sydenham ………………………………………………………………………… 102 Recommendations – South Frontenac …………………………………. 104

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9.0 Frontenac Islands Branches ……………………………………………………… 106 32T

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9.1 9.2 9.3

Howe Island ……………………………………………………………………… 107 Wolfe Island ……………………………………………………………………… 109 Recommendations – Frontenac Islands ………………………………… 111

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10.0 Implementing the LFP …………………………………………………………… 113 32T

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10.1 Summary of the Space Development Strategy ……………………… 113 10.2 Monitoring & Reviewing the LFP…………………………………………. 114 10.3 Capital Costs & Timing ……………………………………………………….. 115 32T

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List of Figures Figure 1: KFPL Funding Allocation, 2021 …………………………………………………………….. 6 Figure 2: KFPL System-Wide In-Person Visits, 2017-2019 ……………………………………….. 8 Figure 3: Visits by Branch, 2017-2019 …………………………………………………………………. 8 Figure 4: Weekly Hours of Operation by Branch (Pre-Pandemic) …………………………… 9 Figure 5: KFPL Active Cardholders, 2017-2020 …………………………………………………… 10 Figure 6: KFPL System-Wide Circulation, 2017-2020 ……………………………………………. 12 Figure 7: KFPL Circulation by Municipality, 2017-2020 ………………………………………… 12 Figure 8: Importance of KFPL…………………………………………………………………………… 25 Figure 9: Frequency of Library Use (pre-COVID-19) …………………………………………….. 25 Figure 10: Respondent’s Service Priorities for the Future …………………………………….. 26 Figure 11: Allocation of Space by Branch Type ………………………………………………….. 47 Figure 12: Library Space Provision Rate by Municipality ……………………………………… 50 Figure 13: Central Branch, Site Plan ………………………………………………………………….. 63 Figure 14: Calvin Park Branch, Site Plan …………………………………………………………….. 65 Figure 15: Isabel Turner Branch, Site Plan………………………………………………………….. 68 Figure 16: Isabel Turner Branch, Floor Plan ……………………………………………………….. 69 Figure 17: Pittsburgh Branch, Site Plan ……………………………………………………………… 72 Figure 18: Rideau Heights Branch, Site Plan ………………………………………………………. 74 Figure 19: Cloyne Branch, Site Plan …………………………………………………………………… 80 Figure 20: Plevna Branch, Site Plan …………………………………………………………………… 82 Figure 21: Arden Branch, Site Plan……………………………………………………………………. 87 Figure 22: Mountain Grove Branch, Site Plan …………………………………………………….. 89 Figure 23: Parham Branch, Site Plan …………………………………………………………………. 91 Figure 24: Sharbot Lake Branch, Site Plan …………………………………………………………. 93 Figure 25: Hartington Branch, Site Plan …………………………………………………………….. 99 Figure 26: Storrington Branch, Site Plan ………………………………………………………….. 101 Figure 27: Sydenham Branch, Site Plan ……………………………………………………………. 103 Figure 28: Howe Island Branch, Site Plan…………………………………………………………. 108 Figure 29: Wolfe Island Branch, Site Plan ………………………………………………………… 110 32TU

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List of Maps Map 1: KFPL Branch Locations …………………………………………………………………………… 5 Map 2: Geographic Distribution of KFPL Branches……………………………………………… 57 Map 3: Geographic Distribution of Branches, City of Kingston ……………………………. 61 Map 4: Geographic Distribution of Branches, Township of North Frontenac ………… 78 Map 5: Geographic Distribution of Branches, Township of Central Frontenac ………. 85 Map 6: Geographic Distribution of Branches, Township of South Frontenac ………… 96 Map 7: Geographic Distribution of Branches, Township of Frontenac Islands ……… 106 32T

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List of Tables Table 1: KFPL Branch Locations & Sizes ………………………………………………………………. 4 Table 2: Frontenac County Age Distribution, 2011 – 2021 ………………………………….. 15 Table 3: System-Wide Projection of Library Space Needs, 2021-2041 ……………………. 52 Table 4: Projection of Library Space Needs for the City of Kingston, 2021-2041 ……. 53 Table 5: Projection of Library Space Needs by Township, 2021-2041 ……………………. 55 Table 6: Summary of Major LFP Capital Items ………………………………………………….. 117 32T

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Acronyms AODA ARUPLO GFA KFPL LFP OPL

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Administrators of Rural-Urban Public Libraries of Ontario Gross Floor Area Kingston Frontenac Public Library Library Facilities Plan Ontario Public Libraries

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Page 1

Page 17 of 198 1.0 Introduction

1.0 Introduction 1.1

The Importance of Libraries

The public library remains a core institution for Canadians, constantly evolving and innovating in step with rapid advances in technology world-wide. Canada’s continued shift towards knowledge-based economies and the importance of “creative industries” means that public libraries play a pivotal role to their communities. Libraries are places of learning, creativity, socialization and collaboration among all facets of the population. The library branch is a critical community focal point though for different reasons than in the past. Libraries fulfill objectives surrounding education, economic development and civic placemaking that contribute to the broader social, economic and cultural health of a community, which in turn has meant that the very way in which libraries operate in the modern age is different than in the past.

“I love coming to the library – it’s welcoming, safe, inclusive, and comfortable.” ~ Central Branch User Comment

The transformative change experienced in modern libraries is driven by broad technological and societal trends. The development of mobile and portable technologies such as Wi-Fi to eBooks, tablets and smart phones is key to this. Equally important are social trends emphasizing creativity, social justice, experience, collaboration, sociability, community connection and lifelong learning. Such changes are unfolding and interacting in ways that are affecting the library user experience, library collections, community relationships and, in turn, physical space. KFPL recognizes the importance that library spaces play within the community. Innovative approaches to providing libraries have been undertaken in partnership with others such as co-locating with community centres, fire halls and administration buildings with municipal partners to increase outreach and share costs. KFPL has also demonstrated its willingness to embrace technology and emerging trends through makerspaces and an increasing digital collection while ongoing maintenance and investments in its branches and physical library space continue to be made. Create Space at Central Branch

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1.2 Purpose of the Library Facilities Plan Kingston Frontenac Public Library (KFPL) services all municipalities that are physically located in Frontenac County, a vast geographic territory, through 16 branches located in: • • • • •

City of Kingston – 5 branches Township of North Frontenac – 2 branches Township of Central Frontenac – 4 branches Township of South Frontenac – 3 branches Township of Frontenac Islands – 2 branches

KFPL is defined as a Union Library under the Public Libraries Act when two or more municipalities agree to share the cost of establishing, operating and maintaining their libraries. KFPL serves 161,750 people 1 living in its five member municipalities. Each branch serves a slightly different function based on the needs of the urban or rural community in which it is located. KFPL’s branches offer collections, programs, services and amenities that are tailored to the diverse and geographically dispersed resident base. 0FP

Central Branch

The Library Facilities Plan (LFP) renews the longterm vision for how KFPL’s built form will transform over the next 20 years based on the evolution of the County of Frontenac, the City of Kingston and the four Townships. It is intended to provide a library facility model to guide KFPL in reaffirming – and adjusting where necessary – the role of its branches, evaluating the merits of delivering new or more specialized functions, and exploring alternative space delivery options that can effectively improve access to library services. KFPL Board and staff will need to engage their municipal funding partners to set priorities, recognizing fiscal restraints and other civic needs.

Arden Branch

1 Statistics Canada 2021 Census Populations for Kingston, North

Frontenac, Central Frontenac, South Frontenac, and Frontenac Islands

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1.3

Plan Methodology

KFPL initiated the LFP in January 2022 with the assistance of Monteith Brown Planning Consultants Ltd. and MJMA Architecture & Design. The LFP was developed in accordance with a Terms of Reference prepared by KFPL and overseen by Library staff. The LFP is built upon inputs gained through background research, review of KFPL reports and past studies, and consultations with the public and library partners. Space assessments have been carried out in consideration of generally accepted standards and data published by provincial library bodies such as Ontario Public Libraries Monitoring & Accreditation Council and the Administrators of Rural-Urban Public Libraries of Ontario (ARUPLO) in conjunction with KFPL’s historic levels of service and past practices. The use of several inputs in the planning process allows the LFP to consider provincial and national trends and best practices in providing library space while reflecting the unique characteristics and priorities of people living in Kingston and Frontenac County. In this way the LFP’s recommendations have considered research, consultation and assessment methodologies as an integrated set rather than exclusively relying upon any one input or tool. Note about COVID-19 The LFP was prepared in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic during which libraries have been closed for extended periods of time in 2020 and 2021, and have been operating under significantly different conditions than in the past. Due to this, the LFP assessments are based on a number of prepandemic variables under the assumption that historical usage and preferences will return once the pandemic is over. With this being said, COVID-19 will have lasting impacts on the way in which libraries are designed, operated and used. The LFP recognizes the impacts of the pandemic, but also notes that ongoing monitoring of post-pandemic trends will be required moving forward as there continues to be a degree of uncertainty for the future at the time of writing this report. Limitations & Exclusions The LFP is focused upon capital-related items pertaining to KFPL’s built infrastructure. As such, the scope of work is largely relegated to defining the amount and types of library space required along with how to provide it. The LFP’s scope does not include organizational or operational assessments that would typically be encompassed in KFPL’s Strategic Plan, staffing or organizational reviews, defining hours of operation, nor does it include the preparation of operating policies and practices to guide the delivery of library services.

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1.4 KFPL’s Branches Branch Locations & Sizes KFPL’s 16 branches collectively provide 130,184 ft2 of floor space. The branches are characterized by different facility designs and floor sizes that are largely reflective of their era of construction but also the legacy of amalgamation which predates KFPL’s incorporation as a union library system. As a result of these differences along with other market-related factors, the types of collections and services offered at each branch also varies. Of the 16 branches, nine branches operate as stand-alone facilities while the seven remaining branches are shared with another use such as a community centre, meeting hall, fire hall, or municipal office. P

Table 1: KFPL Branch Locations & Sizes

Municipality

Branch Name

Address

Branch Size

City of Kingston

Central Calvin Park Isabel Turner Pittsburgh Rideau Heights

130 Johnson Street 88 Wright Crescent 935 Gardiners Road 80 Gore Road 85 MacCauley Street Sub-Total: Kingston

Township of North Frontenac

Cloyne Plevna

Township of South Frontenac

Township of Frontenac Islands

Arden Mountain Grove Parham Sharbot Lake

Hartington Storrington Sydenham

Howe Island Wolfe Island

115,904 ft2 P

1011 Little Pond Road 6638 Buckshot Lake Road Sub-Total: North Frontenac

Township of Central Frontenac

60,030 ft2 13,186 ft2 31,990 ft2 5,018 ft2 5,680 ft2

689 ft2 710 ft2 P

1,399 ft2 P

5998 Arden Road 1045 Mill Road 1282 Wagarville Road 1037 Robert Street

495 ft2 1,207 ft2 1,022 ft2 969 ft2

Sub-Total: Central Frontenac

3,693 ft2

5597 Highway 38 3910 Battersea Road (Sunbury) 4412 Wheatley Street

947 ft2 517 ft2 5,920 ft2

Sub-Total: South Frontenac

7,384 ft2

50 Baseline Road 10 Highway 95

732 ft2 1,072 ft2

Sub-Total: Frontenac Islands

1,804 ft2

KFPL Total

130,184 ft2

Kingston Frontenac Public Library Facilities Plan Monteith Brown Planning Consultants Ltd. | MJMA Architecture & Design

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Map 1: KFPL Branch Locations

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Funding KFPL receives approximately $8 million annually Figure 1: KFPL Funding Allocation, 2021 from three levels of government. The funding allocation originates from the agreement between the City of Kingston and County of Frontenac to City of Kingston, 83% amalgamate their former individual library systems County of into a Union Library system that is now the KFPL.

Frontenac, 11%

The City of Kingston is home to 82% of KFPL’s resident base and funds 83% of the cost of library services, amounting to $6.8 million in 2021. The four Townships operate as lower-tier municipalities whose library funding and governance activities were historically carried out by the County of Frontenac. The 18% of the KFPL resident base living in the four Townships are funded by the County which contributes 11% towards the cost of library operations, amounting to $863,500 per year. The Province of Ontario provides an annual subsidy of $297,000, or 4% of library revenues. KFPL’s remaining revenues are derived from library operations such as facility rentals, printing and photocopier services, grants and donations, and selected other services. Fines and fees have historically represented a nominal portion of the operating budget, though KFPL eliminated late fees effective January 2021 in line with a number of other progressive library systems.

Province of Ontario, 4% Rentals, Fines, Photocopier, 1% Grants, Donations & Other, 1%

Source: KFPL 2021 Operating Budget (As Approved)

In addition to the operating budget, the buildings in which KFPL branches are housed are owned by the City of Kingston and the Townships. Capital funding is generally derived from the building owner depending on whether it relates to asset management (e.g. lifecycle repair) or capital improvement projects. Eligible projects funded through Development Charges have primarily been obtained through the City of Kingston since its share of land development projects and resulting population growth has been higher than in the rural settlements. Municipalities also contribute to the capital improvement and operating costs for their respective buildings.

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Sydenham Branch, South Frontenac

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Visits to KFPL Branches KFPL received nearly 680,000 visits in 2019, the last year before branches were closed for extended periods of time due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The five most visited branches in 2019 were:

Isabel Turner (Kingston) – 243,300 visits
Calvin Park (Kingston) – 176,600 visits
Central (Kingston) – 135,200 visits
Pittsburgh (Kingston) – 42,700 visits
Rideau Heights (Kingston) – 32,700 visits Helped by the opening of the Rideau Heights Branch and re-opening of the Central Branch which added high quality library space and programming, visitation in 2019 was almost 25% higher than in 2017, generating more than 131,000 visits. This speaks favourably to KFPL’s value proposition and its ability to engage more people in its branches.

“I want a place to spend time with grandchildren and read together, meet other kids – a social hub – comfortable chairs!” ~ Parham Branch User Comment

It should be noted, however, that City of Kingston branches are driving the increased visitation trends and accommodated 93% of all in-person visits to KFPL branches. The rural libraries have experienced stagnating to declining levels of visitation. In-person visitation can also be analyzed on a square foot basis to recognize the level of intensity placed on smaller versus larger branches. The top five branches measured by visits per square foot in 2019 consisted of:

Calvin Park (Kingston) – 13.4 visits per square foot
Arden (North Frontenac) – 8.6 visits per square foot
Pittsburgh (Kingston) – 8.5 visits per square foot
Isabel Turner (Kingston) – 7.6 visits per square foot
Storrington (South Frontenac) – 6.9 visits per square foot 2 1FP

Branches that received the least in-person use with fewer than 1,500 visits in 2019 were Cloyne and Plevna in North Frontenac, Mountain Grove in Central Frontenac, along with Wolfe Island. Six other rural branches received low in-person use with between 1,500 and 5,000 visits. This means that 10 out of the 11 rural branches received fewer than 5,000 visits in 2019 though it bears noting that their visitation is influenced by the smaller populations being served in their catchment areas and in certain instances, shorter hours of operation compared to branches serving larger catchment area populations.

2 2019 visitation rates at City of Kingston branches were influenced by the Central Branch renovation; despite Central Branch re-opening in March 2019, certain library users may be continuing to visit other branches they were relying on when Central Branch was closed.

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Figure 2: KFPL System-Wide In-Person Visits, 2017-2019

677,839

643,434 546,808

2017

2018

2019

Figure 3: Visits by Branch, 2017-2019

Urban Branches (Kingston) 640,000

2017

2018

Rural Branches

35,000

2019

2017

30,000

630,000 620,000

2018

25,000

610,000

2019

600,000

20,000

590,000 15,000

580,000 570,000

10,000

560,000 550,000

5,000

540,000 530,000

0 City of Kingston

North Frontenac

Central Frontenac

South Frontenac

Frontenac Islands

Notes: Rideau Heights Branch opened in April 2018. Central Branch was closed for renovation between November 2016 and March 2019 during which a temporary location was operating. All branches were closed for periods of time in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and are not reflected in visitation statistics. Source: KFPL Annual Reports, 2017-2020

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In-person visitation can also be correlated to the number of hours that a branch is open in a given week. The following observations are made: •

Kingston branches are open between 36 and 64 hours per week; their hours of operation fall within the range identified by ARUPLO Guidelines (25 to 45 hours for medium-sized branches and 45 to 65 hours for large branches).

•

North Frontenac branches are open between 14 and 15 hours per week but operate below ARUPLO Guidelines of 20 to 25 hours per week for small branches.

•

Central Frontenac branches are open between 6 and 19 hours per week; these also fall below ARUPLO Guidelines for small branches.

•

South Frontenac branches are open between 15 and 33 hours per week; Hartington and Storrington are small branches whose hours of operation are below the ARUPLO Guidelines while Sydenham falls within the recommended range for medium-size branches.

•

Frontenac Islands branches operate between 6 hours (Howe Island) and 15 hours (Wolfe Island) each week; both fall below the ARUPLO Guidelines for small branches.

Based on this general analysis, lower rates of visitation and borrowing (the latter of which is discussed in the following pages) for specific branches can be a result of having fewer hours of operation in addition to other factors such as population density in the catchment area, ease of access, etc. Higher traffic branches such as those in Kingston and Sydenham have stronger rates of visitation and borrowing which is aided by more hours open to the public. Figure 4: Weekly Hours of Operation by Branch (Pre-Pandemic) 70

Hours Open per Week

60 50 40 30 20 10 0

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Cardholders KFPL had more than 51,000 library cardholders access its digital and physical services in 2020. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of active library cardholders reached a high-point due in part to the opening of the Rideau Heights branch the year before and the re-opening of the Central Branch. New members were also trending upwards as a result. The number of active cardholders understandably decreased in 2020 due in part to government-mandated branch closures as a result of the pandemic. That said, KFPL still attracted 4,386 new library members, reinforcing how important KFPL was – and continues to be - to people during times of uncertainty. Figure 5: KFPL Active Cardholders, 2017-2020 New Members

80,000

12,000

Library Cardholders

Active Cardholders

60,000

63,326 56,043

55,171

50,000 40,000

10,000 51,173

6,938 5,263

5,837

8,000 6,000

4,386

30,000

New Members

70,000

4,000

20,000 2,000

10,000 0

0 2017

2018

2019

2020

Notes: Rideau Heights Branch opened in April 2018. Central Branch was closed for renovation in 2017 and 2018. All branches were temporarily closed for periods of time in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Source: KFPL Annual Reports, 2017-2020

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Circulation & Borrowing Library users borrowed 718,479 physical materials in 2020 including books, video games, movies and music. Circulation was significantly impacted by branch closures in 2020 resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic whereas circulation statistics were demonstrably increasing in the three years prior despite closure of the Central Branch for redevelopment. Circulation can provide an indication of how much space is required to house library collections at a given branch; higher rates of circulation may suggest higher levels of demand for physical items. Branches located in the City of Kingston had the highest circulation rates, accounting for nearly 70% of all borrowing in 2019. The top five circulating branches in 2019 were:

Isabel Turner (Kingston) – 358,000 items
Calvin Park (Kingston) – 253,100 items
Central (Kingston) – 151,000 items
Pittsburgh (Kingston) – 73,000 items
Sydenham (South Frontenac) – 40,200 items Borrowing can also be analyzed on a square foot basis to offer insights into the level of intensity associated with circulation but also allows comparisons between branches to be standardized. Borrowed items across the KFPL system at individual branches results in an average rate of 5.5 circulating items per square foot (this excludes online renewals). On a square foot basis, the two branches in the Township of North Frontenac had the highest circulation rate (8.2 items/sf) although its branches are among the smallest in the KFPL system. The Township of South Frontenac (7.8 items/sf) and City of Kingston (7.5 items/sf) were closer to the system-wide average while the Townships of Central Frontenac (6.8 items/sf), Frontenac Islands (6.1 items/sf) were below average. While direct comparisons should be interpreted cautiously due to the very wide range of branch sizes in the KFPL system – from a few hundred square feet to upwards of 30,000 square feet – the top five circulating branches on a square foot basis in 2019 consisted of:
Calvin Park (Kingston) – 19.2 items per square foot
Storrington (South Frontenac) – 17.6 items per square foot
Pittsburgh (Kingston) – 14.5 items per square foot
Arden (Central Frontenac) – 13.1 items per square foot
Sharbot Lake (Central Frontenac) – 12.9 items per square foot Interestingly, Arden and Sharbot Lake have strong rates of borrowing per square foot despite having limited hours of operation.

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Figure 6: KFPL System-Wide Circulation, 2017-2020

1,141,078

1,256,954

1,220,514

718,479

2017

2018

2019

2020

Figure 7: KFPL Circulation by Municipality, 2017-2020

Urban Branches (Kingston) 70,000 900,000

2017

800,000

2018

700,000

2019 2020

600,000 500,000

2017

60,000

2018

50,000

2019 2020

40,000 30,000

400,000 300,000

20,000

200,000

10,000

100,000 0

Rural Branches

0 City of Kingston

North Frontenac

Central Frontenac

South Frontenac

Frontenac Islands

Notes: Rideau Heights Branch opened in April 2018. Central Branch was closed for renovation between November 2016 and March 2019. All branches were temporarily closed for periods of time in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Source: KFPL Annual Reports, 2017-2020

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1.5

Community Snapshot

Understanding demographic characteristics of the five municipalities served by KFPL and how they are anticipated to change helps to inform current and future library use potential. References to “Frontenac County” and “Kingston-Frontenac” are used interchangeably and comprise the City of Kingston, Township of North Frontenac, Township of Central Frontenac, Township of South Frontenac and the Frontenac Islands that collectively make up Frontenac County. Statistics Canada Census data forms the basis of historical and current information, noting that only population and age-related information have been published for the 2021 Census at time of writing; Statistics Canada will be releasing additional information from the 2021 Census after this planning process has been completed. It also bears noting that long-range growth studies for the City of Kingston and Frontenac County were prepared prior to the COVID-19 pandemic which altered traditional migration patterns and related assumptions; this has led to 2021 Census populations being higher than originally forecasted for certain municipalities in Kingston-Frontenac. As a result, KFPL will need to review contents of the LFP in relation to future Census releases and updates to population forecasts for the five municipalities in its service catchment to determine if any adjustments are required to the LFP’s analyses or recommendations. Total Population Kingston-Frontenac grew by more than 23,000 people between the 2001 and 2021 Census periods to reach 161,780 persons, representing an average annual growth rate of 0.8% over the 20-year period. Focusing on the past five years shows that the average growth rate has doubled to 1.6% per year that has been largely driven by development in the City of Kingston. It bears noting that the collective populations of the four Townships doubles during the summer due to the influx of approximately 28,000 seasonal residents. There is also a large base of postsecondary students living in the area during the school year. Population growth in Ontario has been primarily directed to urban centres over the past 20 years. By comparison, many rural settlements have experienced stagnating to declining populations due to factors such as aging populations, migration of younger people to urban settings, and less availability for new housing due to provincial planning policies. Kingston and the four Townships served by KFPL have generally mirrored these provincial trends between the 2001 and 2021 Census periods. KFPL’s catchment area, however, has demonstrated positive rates of growth particularly during the past 5 years as described in the page that follows.

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City of Kingston 2021 Pop. 132,485 2031 Pop. 145,700 2041 Pop. 157,400

Township of North Frontenac 2021 Pop. 2,285 2031 Pop. 2,070 2041 Pop. 2,100

Kingston’s 2021 Census population of 132,485 persons is an increase of 18,300 persons over the past 20 years and amounts to an average growth rate of 0.8% per year. The rate of growth has significantly accelerated during the past five years, averaging 1.4% annually since 2016. Kingston is projected to reach 145,000 persons over the next 10 years (1% average annual growth) and ultimately exceed 157,000 persons by 2041. North Frontenac’s population was 2,285 in 2021, approximately 500 more people than in 2001 and averaging annual growth of 1.3%. However, 80% of North Frontenac’s population growth over this time has occurred in the past five years during which the growth rate has averaged 4% annually. North Frontenac’s 2041 population is projected to be 2,100 based on pre-pandemic assumptions.

Township of Central Frontenac 2021 Pop. 4,892 2031 Pop. 4,720 2041 Pop. 4,760

Central Frontenac’s 2021 Census population of 4,892 is an increase of just 335 persons compared to 2001. This represents an average growth rate of 0.4% annually over the 20-year period. The Township’s population actually declined until 2016 before reversing to a growth scenario with an averaging a 2.4% annual growth rate over the last five years. Central Frontenac’s 2041 population is projected to be 4,760 based on pre-pandemic assumptions.

Township of South Frontenac

South Frontenac’s 2021 Census population of 20,188 persons is approximately 3,800 persons more than recorded in 2001, translating into average annual growth of 1.1%. Nearly half of this growth has taken place during the past five years during which annual growth rates have averaged 1.7% since 2016. The Township is projected to reach 21,700 persons in the next 10 years (0.8% average annual growth) and ultimately exceed 23,000 persons by 2041 based on pre-pandemic forecasts.

2021 Pop. 20,188 2031 Pop. 21,760 2041 Pop. 23,220

Township of Frontenac Islands 2021 Pop. 1,930 2031 Pop. 2,160 2041 Pop. 2,380

The Frontenac Islands’ population was recorded at 1,930 in 2021, growth of 300 persons over the past 20 years. Over half of this population growth has taken place after 2016 with the five-year annual average growth rate being 1.9% (compared to 0.5% annually over the prior 15-year period). The population is projected to reach 2,380 in 2041.

Note: Historical population figures derived from the Statistics Canada Census. Projections sourced from Population, Housing & Employment Growth Forecasts separately prepared for the City of Kingston (2019) and Frontenac County (2020). Figures exclude seasonal and out-oftown student populations. Kingston Frontenac Public Library Facilities Plan Monteith Brown Planning Consultants Ltd. | MJMA Architecture & Design

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Age Structure The 2021 Census median age of Frontenac County was 43.2 years, slightly younger by half a year than recorded in 2016 and suggestive of an influx of younger populations during the past five years. Considered in tandem with the rate of growth since 2016 discussed in the previous pages, Table 2 illustrates changes from historical norms of aging populations whereby fiveyear growth rates are exhibiting positive growth rates across all age categories. The County’s median age remains slightly older than the provincial median age of 41.6 years which is due in part by substantial growth in the 55+ population, however, KFPL can expect to serve greater numbers of residents in the younger age cohorts should these trends persist. Table 2: Frontenac County Age Distribution, 2011 – 2021

Children (0 to 9)

2011 14,505

2016 14,420

5-Year ∆ 2021 2011-2016 14,660 -1%

5-Year ∆ 10-Year ∆ 2016-2021 2011-2021 2% 1%

Youth (10 to 19)

17,535

15,015

16,755

-14%

12%

-4%

Younger Adults (20 to 34)

31,215

29,595

33,405

-5%

13%

Mature Adults (35 to 54)

41,430

36,610

37,910

-12%

-8%

Older Adults (55 to 69)

27,580

29,285

34,245

17%

24%

Seniors (70+)

17,475

19,390

24,800

11%

28%

42%

Total 149,740 144,315 161,775 -4% Source: Statistics Canada Census 2006-2016 (historical, excluding undercount)

12%

That being said, there are notable differences in the age structure of the five municipalities: •

The City of Kingston’s 2021 median age of 41.2 years is the lowest of the KFPL catchment area and is similar to the provincial median.

•

The Township of North Frontenac has the highest median age with the KFPL catchment at 61.6 years old.

•

The Townships of Central Frontenac and Frontenac Islands also have a relatively high median age of 55.6 and 59.6 years, respectively.

•

The Township of South Frontenac’s median age of 48.8 years is the lowest of the rural Townships (but is still higher than that of the City).

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Income & Education Note: Statistics Canada will publish education-related data after the Library Facilities Plan has been finalized. As such, the LFP relies on the 2016 Census for education information.

The 2021 Census records the City of Kingston’s median household income at $79,000, lower than the County’s median household income ($81,000) and Ontario ($91,000). Among the rural Townships, South Frontenac and the Frontenac Islands have the highest median household incomes at $104,000 and $90,000, respectively, of which both are substantially higher than the rest of Frontenac County. Central Frontenac ($70,000) and North Frontenac ($68,000) have lower median household incomes than the County and provincial medians. Serving populations experiencing low incomes is a major priority for KFPL as such persons may not have the same access to information as people with greater financial means. In this light it is important to note that there were over 17,000 Frontenac County residents – including nearly 3,000 children and teens below the age of 18 – living below Statistics Canada’s Low-Income Measure After-Tax (LIM-AT) in 2020; this equates to 11% of all residents in the KFPL catchment area. Prevalence of persons experiencing low income in 2020 as defined by the LIMAT among the five municipalities is as follows: • • • • •

11% of Kingston residents (14,555 persons) 16% of North Frontenac residents (345 persons) 15% of Central Frontenac residents (735 persons) 6% of South Frontenac residents (1,250 persons) 9% of Frontenac Islands residents (165 persons)

Community Garden Program at the Pittsburgh Branch, Kingston

The level of educational attainment can also influence the degree of library use in a community. Frontenac County residents are generally well-educated with the 2016 Census reporting more than half of residents (56%) as having a post-secondary education which is comparable to the provincial rate. The highest rates of post-secondary educational attainment are found in the Frontenac Islands (61%) and the City of Kingston (58%).

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Immigration & Language Note: Statistics Canada will publish for the 2021 Census data regarding language, ethno-cultural background and immigration after the Library Facilities Plan has been finalized. As such, the LFP relies on the 2016 Census for this information.

As an organization focused on inclusion and acceptance, KFPL has made efforts to positions its spaces, collections, services and staffing to be reflective of the community it serves. While there are still areas for improvement, understanding the ethno-cultural composition of Kingston-Frontenac will allow KFPL to keep stride with the changes in its resident base. In 2016, one out of every eight Frontenac County residents (12% or 17,600 people) were born outside of Canada with the vast majority of these residents (90% or 16,000 people) living in the City of Kingston. That said, most immigrants had been living in Canada for longer than 10 years and would not necessarily be considered as ‘newcomers’ to the country. Three out of four Frontenac County residents have European ancestry while over 6% have Asian origins predominantly from Chinese or South Asian descent. English is the first language for 86.5% of Frontenac County residents while French is the first language for 3%. Among non-official languages, Portuguese and Mandarin were the most spoken. Nearly all racialized populations in Frontenac County reported living within the City of Kingston. One out of ten Kingston residents are visible minorities comprised primarily by members of the South Asian, Chinese and Black communities. Additionally, 4% of KingstonFrontenac identifies as Aboriginal of which the majority were residents of Kingston.

Multi-language Welcome Sign at the Isabel Turner Branch

Based on the above, the need for multi-lingual and multicultural collections and services are more likely to be in demand within City of Kingston branches. However, immigration trends are such that greater cultural diversity can be expected in more rural settings although to a slower pace relative to urban areas.

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1.6 Planning & Policy Framework The LFP acknowledges other documents that guide the planning and provision of library space. The following pages identify these documents and how they may influence library infrastructure in Kingston-Frontenac. KFPL Vision 2020 Vision 2020 was KFPL’s strategic plan that provided a framework to guide corporate actions between 2013 and 2020 (an update to KFPL’s strategic plan is scheduled to commence after the LFP process is complete). Vision 2020 set a course for KFPL’s role and priorities including areas such as service improvement and expansion. Three underlying principles were fundamental to Vision 2020:

that public libraries exist to enrich lives; 2) the Library does not act alone; and 3) KFPL is a library system that includes a diverse range of individuals and interests from a large urban and rural community base. Vision 2020 identified KFPL’s overarching goal of “positively changing lives by transforming information into inspiration for people’s imaginations.” Additionally, strategic goals are indicated for KFPL to focus on such as: •

Unique, impactful services that enable the people of Kingston-Frontenac to manage the digital environment effectively;

•

Difference-making spaces in which technologies are used and innovative approaches push KFPL walls further, extending resources and personalized problem-solving services to where residents are;

•

Community-focused relationships with collaboratively delivered specialized programs to provide the information and knowledge that people in all phases of their lives need in order to pursue their aspirations; and

•

Growing 21st Century capabilities throughout the Library, enabling KFPL staff to thrive in the 21st Century information world. P

“Our primary purpose is to make a difference of everyone in Kingston Frontenac. We aim to achieve this purpose by helping residents transform today’s vast information resources into the solutions, facts, know-how, inspiration and entertainment they need to learn, solve problems, read, engage with their community and reach their personal aspirations.”

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~ KFPL Mission, Vision 2020

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Vision 2020 recognized that KFPL serves a vast population that consists of an urban centre in Kingston along with numerous rural communities spanning across the four Townships. Despite the stark differences between urban and rural landscapes, Vision 2020 acknowledged that many of the needs of urban and rural residents are actually similar. Furthermore, the Strategy articulated the role KFPL plays with community partners and identifies a vision of increasing awareness of partnerships with the Library and the various opportunities that would come with that. Official Plans There are six Official Plans that are in effect within the KFPL catchment area. These Official Plans for Kingston-Frontenac’s upper-tier, single-tier and lower-tier municipalities provide the policy basis permitted by the Ontario Planning Act to plan and direct growth/development. City of Kingston Official Plan (2010) The City of Kingston’s Official Plan provides the basis for Kingston’s land use and urban design. Its policies address important parts of city-building that encompass transportation, housing, culture and heritage, environment, and the economy. Kingston’s Official Plan outlines land use designations where libraries are permitted with notable policies as follows: 3.2.5 (Community and Care Facilities

Libraries, museums, and small-scale community centres or other social or cultural centres are permitted in Institutional, Residential, Open Space, and all Commercial designations, including the Central Business District.

3.12.5 (Rural Lands)

New community facilities in accordance with Section 3.2 of this Plan, are permitted, including places of worship, community centres, libraries or recreation facilities. These uses are encouraged to locate within designated Hamlets that can accommodate such uses, and it is the intent of this Plan to recognize such uses in the zoning by-law.

9.7.2.1 j (Secondary Plans, Guidelines & Studies

…A secondary plan, to be prepared by the City in partnership with affected land owners, will address and coordinate at a minimum, but not necessarily be limited to…providing public service facilities including libraries, recreation, fire protection and education facilities.

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Frontenac County Official Plan (2014) Frontenac County’s Official Plan establishes numerous policies as they relate to housing, transportation, culture and heritage, the environment, and the economy. As an upper-tier municipality, the Official Plans for the four Townships must be consistent with the policies of the County Official Plan (noting this does not apply to the City of Kingston which is a single-tier municipality). While the Frontenac County Official Plan does not have any specific policies pertaining directly to libraries, or the provision of library services, Section 3.2.2.1 (3) identifies that Local Official Plans shall promote a mix of uses within Settlement Areas including residential, commercial, institutional (which encompasses libraries), parks and employment areas. Township of North Frontenac Official Plan (2017) The Township of North Frontenac Official Plan identifies that libraries are a permitted use within the ‘Public Service Use’s land designation contained within Hamlet Settlement Areas (Section 4.1.2f). Township of Central Frontenac Official Plan (2021) Central Frontenac’s Official Plan was approved by the County in September 2021 and is now in effect apart from policies under appeal. The Official Plan permits libraries within its ‘Institutional and Public Service Uses’ designation (Section 4.1.2, 4). Township of South Frontenac Official Plan (2003) Libraries are permitted within South Frontenac’s ‘Community Facility’ designation or Settlement Areas (Section 5.6.2i) and Rural Areas (Section 5.7.3). The Official Plan generally indicates that these facilities shall occur on lots of an appropriate size, provide adequate buffering between adjacent land uses, as well as provide adequate parking. Libraries are also identified in Section 4.8 as a Servicing and Community Improvement Goal for the Township. Frontenac Islands Official Plan (2013) The Official Plan for Frontenac Islands permits libraries - along with other defined public uses - within any land use designation with the exception of Provincially Significant Wetlands, Natural Heritage Features and Areas, Hazard Land, and Aggregate and Mineral Resources (Section 4.2.2, 2). The Official Plan also articulates the funding basis for libraries, specifically referencing the Development Charges Act through Section 3.2.2 (11).

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KFPL Branch Services Master Plan (2010) KFPL’s Branch Services Master Plan provided the Library Board and local Councils with a plan to make decisions about the future of library service in Kingston Frontenac. At the time, the Master Plan recognized that some branch facilities and collections/amenities were not adequately meeting the needs of KFPL users based on changing demographics, trends in library usage and spaces, as well as alternative service delivery approaches. The Master Plan took a practical approach to “Building our Future” with collaboration with municipal partners. It articulated more than $10 million in capital projects while also focusing on operating implications of extending hours of operation. It evaluated facility needs on the basis of a 0.6 square foot per capita standard but also looked at each branch in terms of optimal targets for minimum gross floor areas, seating and meeting areas, computer workstations, and more. Notable capital projects that were recommended through the Master Plan included: •

Expansion of the Central Branch by 17,000 square feet;

•

Expansion of the Pittsburgh Branch by 4,000 square feet; and

•

Construction of new branches in Hartington/Verona and Sharbot Lake at 5,000 square feet each;

Of the above, the Central Branch was fully renovated in 2017/18 though its gross floor area was not significantly expanded; however, interior reconfigurations have made the space more efficient and useable by the public. While the other branch construction and expansion projects have not yet been implemented, other improvements have been made systemwide including construction of the Rideau Heights Branch and certain enhancements to some rural branches.

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2.0 Community Engagement

2.0 Community Engagement This Section presents high level findings and themes from the community consultation efforts; more detailed summaries can be referenced in the Consultation Findings Report that was prepared to inform the LFP.

2.1 Overview of Consultations The Library Facilities Plan process engaged the general public, community and agency partners, municipal representatives and KFPL staff through a variety of means. Consultation initiatives tested preferences, opinions, levels of satisfaction, and needs for library space to inform the LFP. Community and KFPL staff engagements were undertaken are as follows: •

Generating Community Awareness through the creation of an online project portal, use of social media and traditional forms of communication with the public;

•

Virtual and In-Person Open Houses to introduce the LFP to the community, test the Draft LFP, and gather feedback;

•

Community Survey to obtain opinions, insights and preferences with respect to library space;

•

Community Partner Workshops to understand the perspectives of organizations and agencies as to how they presently use branches and how their use may differ in the future;

•

Opinion Leader Interviews to listen to feedback from those that have a vested interest in the delivery of library services and/or work closely with KFPL;

•

KFPL Staff Workshops to benefit from the vast knowledge of those that work directly within the library system and interact with library users on a regular basis; and

•

Presentations to the Library Board to inform them of outcomes and deliverables arising from the LFP process.

Of note, the LFP consultation tested certain operational elements (e.g. library programs, hours of operation, etc.) that are not part of the LFP scope but were included to inform an upcoming Update to the KFPL Strategic Plan. Some of these operational elements were considered as it relates to space provision and design but the LFP does not make recommendations of an operational nature.

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2.2 Community Survey A survey running between March 5 and April 4, 2022 collected input to inform the LFP. The survey explored use of local branches along with programs, services and amenities being sought through KFPL. A total of 1,371 online and hard copy surveys were submitted and analyzed with notable findings as follows: •

Respondents reinforced the importance of KFPL with 91% indicating it is either very important or important to their household; just 2% stated that KFPL is unimportant to them (Figure 8).

•

In terms of pre-pandemic frequency of use, nearly half of those surveyed visited a KFPL branch at least once every two weeks while just 4% of the sample reported that they do not use KFPL (Figure 9).

•

Patrons who visited the Isabel Turner Branch made up 36% of respondents. The Central Branch was used by 30% followed closely by the Calvin Park Branch used by 29% of respondents. While many of the rural branches reported low usage, their percentages are indicative of the smaller populations that they serve.

•

36% were unable to use KFPL as often as they would like due to hours of operation being too limited or not working with their schedule.

•

Browsing and borrowing books (90%) was the most popular activity among those surveyed followed by browsing and borrowing DVDs, CDs (38%), using the KFPL website (35%), accessing e-books and audiobooks (34%), and reading and relaxing (24%).

•

Respondents were asked what would encourage them to use KFPL branches more often. 40% would like additional hours, 27% would like outdoor reading areas/gardens and 26% would like the number of free downloads and streaming services to be expanded (Figure 10).

Respondents articulated their vision for KFPL by completing the sentence, “In the future, my library will…” •

continue to be a relevant and important resource for the community;

•

continue to be inclusive, welcoming and accessible to all people;

•

deliver programs and services that keep pace with growth (particularly those that are affordable);

•

bridge the digital divide by provide access to strong, sufficient and free Wi-Fi/Internet services to library users; and

•

act as a community hub for socialization and information.

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2.0 Community Engagement Figure 8: Importance of KFPL

Not Important at All, 1% Not Important, 1%

Very Important, 67%

Somewhat Important, 7%

Important, 24%

Figure 9: Frequency of Library Use (pre-COVID-19)

Once week, 27% Once a year, 3% Not sure, 3% Once every two weeks, 19%

I do NOT use KFPL branches, 4%

A few times a year, 14% Once a month, 15% Multiple times a week, 14%

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2.0 Community Engagement Figure 10: Respondent’s Service Priorities for the Future Longer hours of operation

40%

Providing outdoor reading areas / gardens

27%

Expanding the digital library of free downloads and streaming…

26%

Expanding the print collection (e.g., books, magazines)

25%

Having more programs or events at branches

20%

Access to more seating / lounge areas

16%

Other

14%

Lending of items other than traditional materials

13%

Food and beverage services

13%

Improved / more convenient automobile parking

13%

Improved children’s or teen area

11%

Renovations that improve the look and feel of the library

10%

More virtual / online library programs

10%

Having a library closer to home, school or work

Nothing

New technologies (e.g., makerspace, lendable technology)

Access to more study / quiet areas

Volunteer opportunities

Faster Wi-Fi

Outreach and visits to schools, seniors’ homes, etc.

Co-locating libraries in multi-use community centres

Community information

More meeting rooms for my business or group collaboration

Improved / more convenient bike parking

More computer workstations

More spaces to work on my own projects / hobbies

Don’t know / Not sure

Locating KFPL branches closer to public transit stops

Newcomer and immigration services

Better signage in the library

Customer service

Access to materials or services in other languages

Better or more public washrooms

Better accessibility for persons with disabilities

Contact-free services

Support for students

More job / employment / career resources

Enhanced cleaning and sanitization

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2.3 Community Open Houses Community Open Houses specifically held for the LFP were held at all 16 KFPL branches as well as the South Frontenac Recreation and Leisure Services Fair during March 2022. The Open Houses allowed the public to review project-specific information and contribute feedback to inform the initial planning phases. KFPL staff facilitated the in-person open houses along with three virtual open houses while those unable to attend had the opportunity to contribute through the LFP webpage. A summary of notable themes that emerged through discussions are presented below. Of note, follow-up workshop(s) will be held to present the draft LFP to the public prior to its finalization. Collections

Many KFPL users value the digital and physical collections, as well as the travelling collection.

Access to Libraries Library users appreciate the geographic coverage provided by the 16 branches, sharing a sentiment that KFPL provides a valuable community service, especially in rural areas where other civic services do otherwise not exist. Technology

Technological services are appreciated, especially the free Wi-Fi. Many patrons use KFPL just so they can access the internet, computers and devices that they do not have other access to.

New Types of Library Space

Co-working spaces and a coffee shop/café are desired in branches.

Additional Hours

A number of people stated they are unable to use the library during current hours of operation and are looking for expanded times, particularly during evenings and weekends. Of note, a number of branches were operating at reduced hours at the time of the survey (during the COVID-19 pandemic).

Comfort Amenities

Improved and additional comfort amenities were requested at KFPL branches of which seating and tables were most commonly stated.

Parking

Parking was expressed as an issue at several branches and that parking lots should be reconfigured where possible. There is also a demand for bicycle and stroller parking/storage, especially in Kingston.

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2.4 Opinion Leader & Community Partner Feedback Three workshops and nine interviews were held in March 2022 with representatives of nearly 40 community organizations, agencies and area municipalities that have an interest in the services delivered through KFPL. The workshops and interviews involved service providers spanning multiple levels of government, education, healthcare, social services, correctional services, creative industries, inclusion (including persons with disabilities, low incomes and diverse cultural backgrounds), and local businesses. A summary of notable themes that emerged through discussions are presented below. A Safe Space for Everybody

One of the most commonly expressed values of KFPL is that branches are viewed as a safe space where individuals can go to warm up, or cool down and connect with others.

Partnerships

Partnerships could be sought out by KFPL for a variety of services with a cited example being an agency placing qualified social workers in libraries to assist with areas in their skillset.

Accessibility & Inclusivity

Spaces should be inclusive, accessible, welcoming and comfortable for all both from a physical and sensory perspective. Branches and staff should be representative of the various cultures that makeup Kingston Frontenac including Indigenous cultures. Spaces should be barrier-free and sensory-sensitive (i.e., lower lights, appropriate volumes, etc.).

Internet Access

The free use of internet and Wi-Fi is a large draw for many community members and organizations. Many Frontenac County residents suffer from poor internet connection and have benefitted from some of the rural branches boosting their Wi-Fi.

Makerspaces

Makerspaces are highly valued and sought out by community members and organizations. KFPL has added its ‘Create Space’ at the Central Branch, however, a desire exists for additional makerspaces at branches that can accommodate them.

Hours of Operation

A common request from organizations was for KFPL to increase hours of operation.

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Multi-Lingual Resources & Services

Recognizing that Kingston (and Frontenac County to a degree) are diverse communities, having multilingual resources and services at KFPL branches would be beneficial for people that have recently immigrated to Canada, or for individuals looking to connect with their own culture or another culture.

Program Space and New Spaces

Many community organizations value the variety of programs offered by KFPL and that there are programs for all ages. Additional program space was requested given the digital shift and space becoming available as some collections are moved/removed. Furthermore, it was indicated that new spaces should be flexible and ideally multi-use.

Green Initiatives

Many KFPL branches have outdoor space that could be utilized for outdoor programs or support climate change initiatives through climate-friendly gardens and landscaping.

Outdoor Spaces

Outdoor spaces should be explored to provide reading or program space. A common theme was the need for society to continue to rebuild our connection with nature. Indigenous environmental practices can be brought into outdoor spaces to educate users on how to connect with the land.

Holds Lockers

Holds lockers were requested at more branches since existing lockers are heavily used.

Support for Remote / CoWorking

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and the shift to remote working, local businesses, entrepreneurs and the community as a whole values KFPL’s meeting rooms/spaces.

Social & Physical Isolation

Isolation is an issue, particularly for rural residents, seniors (especially those in rural communities) and newcomers. There are individuals, especially those in rural areas, who are unable to access KFPL branches unless they own a vehicle. Strategies are needed to address this gap with the use of a Bookmobile being a common suggestion.

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2.5 KFPL Staff Workshops In addition to feedback by the public, key informants, community partners and the Project Team, the LFP scope of work included consultation from KFPL staff that was gathered through two workshops with Operational Staff, Branch Managers and Senior Staff in March 2022. A summary of themes arising through staff consultations is presented below. Rural Branches

Staff value the locations of KFPL branches throughout Frontenac County and that there is wide-spread coverage across the service area.

Technology

Echoed throughout consultation, KFPL’s free access to Wi-Fi and the Internet is highly valued amongst staff and the community. Additionally, the online services of KFPL (especially during the pandemic) have been excellent.

Collections & Literacy Education

The travelling collections of KFPL are appreciated and they add to literacy education for children that use KFPL branches since they provide new materials constantly. The library is a crucial space for furthering literacy education for children specifically, but all users overall.

Additional Spaces and Outdoor Spaces

As expressed in conversations with the community, additional spaces are desired (especially makerspaces, collaboration spaces, recreational spaces and storage spaces). Outdoor spaces were also indicated as having potential to be better utilized. Coffee shop spaces are an opportunity that was also identified for larger branches.

Inclusive Spaces

A theme commonly expressed is the desire for all KFPL spaces to be fully inclusive. As previously mentioned, this would mean incorporating a variety of cultures into design, language, signage, etc. and offering a variety of multilingual collections.

Bike and Stroller Storage/Parking

Bike and stroller storage/parking would be ideal at KFPL branches, specifically branches that are accessed by users through active transportation.

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2.6 Draft LFP Open Houses The Draft LFP was posted on the project website, promoted through social media, and presented by KFPL staff through open houses at selected branches for public review and commenting between July 29 and August 15, 2022. A total of 60 people attended the open houses while 20 written comments were received via email submissions and a feedback form. Open Houses were held at: • • • • • •

Pittsburgh Branch Isabel Turner Branch Cloyne Branch Plevna Branch Mountain Grove Branch Parham Branch

• • • • • •

Sharbot Lake Branch Hartington Branch Storrington Branch Sydenham Branch Howe Island Branch Wolfe Island Branch

Notable and common themes received during the Draft LFP review and commenting period are as follows: •

Support specifically expressed for proposed expansions to Pittsburgh, Storrington and Sharbot Lake branches. Some also stated a belief that rebuilding branches may be more cost-effective than renovating.

•

Mixed feedback was received regarding the need for technology in libraries with some stating they do not use computers or internet in a branch while others indicating access to technology is vital (including the ability to access Wi-Fi from outside of the branch).

•

Some rural users do not place a high need on outdoor reading areas.

•

Certain rural branch users indicated that browsing space remains important for them. Holds lockers were generally supported.

•

General support for partnerships with other community-serving agencies (e.g. public health, social services, housing, etc.), developing inclusive and accessible branches, and providing better signage indicating where branches are and when they are open.

•

Appreciation that KFPL has engaged its community throughout this planning process and that they can see how input provided in initial stages was considered.

•

Comments in support of and in opposition to the Extended Hours pilot program were offered (noting the topic is not part of the LFP scope).

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3.0 Library Facility Trends

3.0 Library Facility Trends This Section presents selected trends regarding the importance and use of public libraries specifically in the context of how libraries are planned, designed and delivered.

3.1

Libraries in an Evolving Urban Structure

A number of recent library builds reflect a suburban model that centralizes community services in multi-use community centres. This is driven by auto-centric planning principles where municipalities expand into peripheral areas where land is undeveloped. However, municipalities are also looking at planning “upwards and inwards” and revitalizing established areas. As such, focus is reverting back to neighbourhood placemaking with library services offered in walking distance or conveniently accessed by transit to create ‘complete communities’ that embody opportunities to “live, work and play.” Looking within established areas, while beneficial on a number of fronts, can bring challenges from land scarcity and land costs, both in terms of assembly and redevelopment. This means that library systems that are looking within their established neighbourhoods to enhance services through expansion and/or redevelopment must find creative solutions to operate. KFPL has embodied a trend of colocating with other municipal or county services such as community centres, fire halls and administration buildings which has created certain conveniences for the library user and generated benefits through fiscal economies. Library systems are also looking to co-locate with institutional partners (e.g. hospitals, schools, colleges and universities, social services providers, etc.), as part of public-private and mixed-use developments (e.g. condominiums, retirement residences, etc.), and other arrangements where sharing space can replicate the one-stop shopping philosophy and share costs. For example, Vaughan Public Library developed an innovative partnership with Mackenzie Health’s Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital to co-locate a 4,000 square foot branch serving the local community along with hospital patients, their caregivers and staff; it offers access to physical and digital collections, library programs along with health literacy resources.

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3.2

New Forms of the Library Branch

Borrowing books and materials remains one of the most popular reasons for visiting libraries. However, lending services are evolving (e.g., a physical collection that is more focused on popular materials and growing digital resources) and being supplemented by an increasing focus on creation and collaboration in library spaces. This is leading to a reduced collections footprint that allow room for more seating, meeting and study. Pre-pandemic borrowing rates were substantial and increasing, however, borrowing is but one measure of a library’s use. LFP consultations showed that library users also rely on KFPL branches to study, use technology and access programs; both urban and rural branches are used for social connection and in some cases are the only public facility available nearby. The public library is taking new forms in relation to its evolution towards serving a broader range of community needs but also in response to increasing access to the number of service points, the digital age that libraries are operating in today, as well as capital and operational funding challenges. The challenge of having enough space to provide knowledge is embedded in the concept of a library.

“I am a year-round resident, and prolific library patron. The suggestion of Holds Lockers is an excellent idea, and I would fully support that one being implemented. Thanks for your time taken to solicit, conglomerate, feedback, and solicit users’ opinions.” ~ Wolfe Island Branch User Comment

Today, information media is disparate and takes on many forms thereby requiring a broad range of resources. Access to interactive programming, digital content and technology, alongside traditional library services has implications on the need for physical space; balancing these priorities when space and budgets are limited requires inventive strategies. Bookmobiles Bookmobiles embody the fundamental cause of the public library and evolved from the aim to make knowledge free and accessible to all. As public libraries were being established throughout cities during the 19th Century, rural populations remained isolated from this service. Putting curated collections on wheels so that librarians could bring the service to the people was an inventive and practical solution to the challenge of serving remote communities. P

Toronto Public Library Bookmobile Photo Credit: Toronto Public Library

Today, bookmobiles thrive in public library systems across the world. In Ontario, cities such as Toronto, Guelph and Ottawa along with smaller systems such as Lambton County and Wasaga Beach have committed investments in new vehicles proving that - despite the proliferation of all things digital Kingston Frontenac Public Library Facilities Plan Monteith Brown Planning Consultants Ltd. | MJMA Architecture & Design

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providing library services to those who might be challenged by distance, time or mobility remains a contemporary and relevant issue. Bookmobiles carry the essence of what a physical library branch offers. Like any modern library, a visitor has access to browse and borrow a material collection, use a computer, connect to Wi-Fi or find assistance from a Librarian. Bookmobiles vary in size; some are vans which need to be unpacked and set up at each stop while others are freightliners, allowing visitors to enter as they would a building, browse and stay a while. The kind of routes and extent of services also range. For example, Ottawa has two vehicles, each with its own unique collection. It makes stops throughout the city and beyond, to rural locations at the edge of the city. Locations are on a weekly rotation with each daily stop lasting two hours, typically in the late afternoon when people are more likely to be available. Other systems such as Wasaga Beach and Guelph send their bookmobiles to specific locations. Guelph focuses on long term care homes or childcares and Wasaga Beach sets up their bookmobile at places which are concurrent with other services such as the Foodbank or the Recreation Centre. As a mobile service, bookmobiles give libraries flexibility to respond to changing needs. As COVID-19 demonstrated, bookmobiles which can provide services outside, were able to remain operational with ease. Enabling civic engagement and social interaction in a time when people faced isolation highlighted the intangible value that a library service brings to a community. While bookmobiles offer flexibility and outreach, they are not without their challenges especially in library systems that cover such a large geographic territory as does KFPL. In KingstonFrontenac, a bookmobile would encounter logistical challenges such as working around ferry boat schedules while the driving distance between the north and south ends of the KFPL catchment can be a two-hour drive. This distance would result in higher travel-related costs for fuel, staff time and wear and tear but also may be incongruent with certain environmental objectives of KFPL and its municipalities (e.g. a move to net zero emissions). Nevertheless, future cost-benefit exercises carried out by KFPL may inform the case as whether or not to operate a bookmobile in urban and/or rural locations.

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Wasaga Beach Public Library Bookmobile Photo Credit: Bayshore Broadcasting

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Modular Libraries Building facilities to meet the needs of growing communities are often subject to limitations of space, time and money. Large capital investments into branches that deliver quickly enough to respond to growth and adequately address community needs are major challenges. Some library systems are looking to prefabricated buildings in response, offering simple structures that can be built within a factory so that disruption with construction is minimized. Oakville Public Library’s Sixteen Mile Branch is a 5,000 square foot prefabricated structure that recently opened as a pop-up location in order to maintain library services during the construction of a new permanent building (being built on the site of the original demolished library). The pop-up is made up of seven, 60 foot long modular units that were built at a factory, transported to Oakville and then connected onsite. The facility is fully demountable and will be deployed elsewhere once the new branch is built.

US Green Building Council, Green Education Centre, Baltimore MD Photo Credit: Modular Genius

Prefabricated buildings have come a long way from the vinyl clad, windowless boxes of the past. Depending on the degree of mobility required, these buildings can be fully customized to be much more welcoming with large glazed areas and tactile claddings and to project a recognizable public facility. The American Green Building Council built an education centre in Baltimore, MD, to LEED standards. The movable, 14 foot by 43 foot, prefabricated building includes flexible education space for workshops, training programs and community activities. Although construction costs are not necessarily less, modular libraries do provide an option for longer term but interim solutions which could be deployed to multiple locations within its service life and may be worth considering as part of a larger plan to expand library services. While this form of library has not been specifically recommended in this LFP, consideration may be appropriate depending on future outlook for library space in Kingston and Frontenac County

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Bookless Libraries Among the challenges brought on by COVID-19, the acceleration of digital media literacy and an exposure to accomplishing tasks online can be perceived as a positive outcome of the pandemic. This does not imply that technology has become accessible to all but it further emphasizes the critical need to ensure that access to technology is available to all. A transition to technological services gained momentum with the advent of personal computers. The extreme manifestations of this are libraries that have computer labs in place of physical book collections. Bexar County’s BiblioTech System in San Antonio, Texas, focuses completely on providing access to technology and spaces for collaboration and creative production. All three branch locations are located in at-risk neighbourhoods where many families do not have the means to own their own computer equipment. This system operates in cooperation with the city’s traditional library system. Bookless libraries also focus on programming and community social spaces in place of book collections. The City of Cambridge with Cambridge Library opened Canada’s first bookless library. The award-winning project is a partnership between the City and its Idea Exchange Division (the Public Library) who focus on delivering programs that supports lifelong learning and creativity. The City needed to find a way to restore a national, heritage post office building into a vital part of the its public urban infrastructure and the Idea Exchange needed spaces for their programs. The Old Post Office, which is an integration of new spaces within the restored building, houses a black box theatre, film and audio recording suites, maker spaces, wood and metal workshop tools, a roof top terrace and a community lounge area.

Cambridge Idea Exchange, Old Post Office Photo Credit: Cambridge Public Library

While KFPL does not operate any bookless libraries, some of its rural branches have limited collections. This is partly in response to the size of the branch but also to recognize that in some areas the library serves more of a social function as one of the few (or only) public gathering places in the vicinity. Such branches are thus important for holds pick-ups, access to internet or technology, and/or the ability to participate in library programs.

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The ‘Express’ Library Vaughan Public Library and Oakville Public Library have taken a new approach to increasing the number of service points to supplement their branch model. A traditional branch is being built in the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre alongside a 400 square foot storefront library space known as the VMC Express; these are being built as part of a mixed-use project involving multiple partners including the land development community. OPL Express locations are specifically targeted with convenience in mind for time-pressed residents by providing service points in high-traffic community centres; OPL Express locations enable pick-ups through holds lockers, returns via drop-off bins, as well as browse and borrow through self-serve kiosks/book vending machines. KFPL provides a “Novel Branch” (kiosk) at the Invista Centre and plans to install another at a new secondary school in Kingston. Express Libraries are a convenient and cost-effective way for libraries to align with urban objectives to create walkable and transit-supportive communities. However, Express Libraries are not necessarily relegated to high density locations. Like KFPL, Hamilton Public Library (HPL) serves a large geographic region including rural areas with highly dispersed populations. Historically its Freelton Branch was only open for 17 hours per week due to its more remote location but since 2017 has been operating using a ‘model through which a library card is used to gain access to the branch during the hours that staff are not present under HPL’s “Rural Extended Access Service.” All books and technology are available during extended hours and there is a direct line to the central library for support. Three rural branches now offer the Extended Access service. In 2022, KFPL will be testing out a similar program at its Pittsburgh Branch. LFP consultations placed strong value in having library staff being available to users. However, consultations also heavily prioritized longer hours of operation and increased access to library services such as holds lockers. Pragmatically, a balance will need to be struck between hours of operation in relation to staffing costs which could present a challenge if current funding allocations are not to be increased in line with services. Future operational assessments carried out by KFPL are anticipated to investigate this further.

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OPL Express, Oakville ON Photo Credit: Oakville Public Library

VMC Library & VMC Express Photo Credit: Vaughan Public Libraries

Photo Credit: Hamilton Public Library

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3.3 Outdoor Library Space The public library is gaining an outdoor presence in response to growing public demand trends. Requests for outdoor reading areas through patios and gardens are growing as people seek a connection to nature or simply get fresh air. Libraries are also delivering programming and events in their outdoor spaces for the benefit of their users as well as to support cultural creatives, economic development and place-making objectives of others. The Central Library in downtown London, Ontario is one example where weekly concerts featuring local musicians have been introduced over the office lunch hour in its 16,000 square foot Rotary Reading Garden while also tying in similar library programs within that garden to support community events held along London’s pedestrian-oriented “Flex Street.” The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted that people are looking for library services outside of the branch interior. In particular, many library systems found that the pandemic exposed the “digital divide” whereby users reliant on public Wi-Fi were left vulnerable with buildings being closed. The Somerville Library (Massachusetts), like many systems in North America, observed people sitting in library parking lots trying to obtain a Wi-Fi signal; Somerville Library transformed an empty courtyard at its Central Branch into a public workspace using basic wood pallets, chairs, tables, umbrellas, and a heater (for the winter) with access to power outlets and use of Wi-Fi extenders. This form of ‘tactical urbanism’ yielded immediate benefits and was a low-cost endeavour compared to a traditional design build process. 3

Rotary Reading Garden, London ON Photo Credit: Canadian Society of Landscape Architects

2FP

Building on the Little Free Library concept where community members lend their own personal materials, some library systems are advancing their own outdoor enclosures. The HollisWealth Story Pod in Newmarket is a community-supported lending library located in the historic downtown area known as Newmarket Riverwalk Commons. The Story Pod is an abstract, black box that is open during the day – like the covers of a book – where visitors can take or leave something to read, or lounge on the built-in seating for reading or story times. At night, the doors are locked and use solar powered lighting to create a lantern like effect to provide ambience for night markets or community events. 4

Audley Library Reading Garden & Patio, Ajax ON

3FP

KFPL offers a courtyard at the Calvin Park Branch and has engaged the community on greenspace rejuvenation at that location. Opportunities to enhance outdoor public spaces have been identified in this report for the Isabel Turner, Wolfe Island, Arden and Calvin Park Branches.

HollisWealth Story Pod, Newmarket ON Photo Credit: Town of Newmarket

3 Project for Public Spaces. How a Library is Reimagining Public Wi-Fi during COVID-19. Greiner, A. (2021,

Feb. 7). Accessed from https://www.pps.org

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3.4 Food & Food Security in the Library Setting Modern libraries systems are taking an active role in food, food nutrition, food security and food justice. In doing so, libraries not only educate their public but can also advance the fun aspects of food by promoting “farm to table” concepts and bringing communities together through “a common language of food” using a combination of space, programs and initiatives. Food security means that all people, at all times, have physical, social, and economic access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food that meets their food preferences and dietary needs for an active and healthy life. 5 Food justice is a similar principal to food security, however, is a social movement oriented to provide access to healthy, nutritious and affordable food particularly where there may be “food deserts.” Progressive library systems across North America are promoting food justice primarily through: distribution of food through branches; food literacy and food education/nutrition programs; culinary instruction; and supporting community-based organizations with a mandate towards food justice through promotion and/or partnerships. 4FP

KFPL has partnered with local food-oriented organizations such as the MacLean Trail Community Garden and Loving Spoonful GROW Project to deliver outdoor programs. A community garden has been developed at Calvin Park Branch (in partnership with Loving Spoonful) with produce shared among volunteers and donated to the community; Calvin Park Branch will also host a weekly Community Harvest Market during the growing season to provide the community with access to affordable produce.

Calvin Park Library Community Garden, Kingston

Some libraries operate ‘seed libraries’ that are positioned as a food security and food literacy initiatives. These can support the local food system and urban agriculture, foster seed saving literacy, and promote locally adapted plant genetics. The Mississauga Library offers free ‘seed libraries’ at multiple branches across the city, providing its public with open-pollinated and non-GMO seeds. When the growing season is over, participants can harvest their seeds and return them to the seed library to help keep it self-sustaining. Seed libraries are often supported by programs such as how to grow a garden, author talks and discussion clubs. A newer trend is the integration of teaching kitchens into the library setting in order to support programming delivered by a library; these can be larger 4 Arch Daily. Story Pod / Atelier Kastelic Buffey. Accessed from https://www.archdaily.com 5 Report of the World Food Summit, 1996.

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facilities inspired by the “commercial/industrial” kitchen concept that provides quality finishes, ventilation systems and appliances to smaller warming kitchens akin to what might be found at home. Mississauga Library is including a large teaching kitchen as part of the ongoing reconstruction of its Central Library. “The Kitchen” at Edmonton Public Library’s Stanley A. Milner branch is an open concept 2,100 square foot space promoting food literacy, health and nutrition, experimentation and other culinary opportunities while responding to interests of local “foodies.” The Kitchen also supports Edmonton’s growing ethno-cultural populations looking for community space, particularly those communities where food and cooking are a major part of their culture. EPL is programming The Kitchen with live and virtual classes along with cooking demonstrations led by instructors, local chefs and restauranteurs; much like a makerspace is optimally staffed by a person experienced in IT, EPL employs a ‘Kitchen Coordinator’ with a background in restaurants and catering. The availability of food and beverage retail services (e.g., cafes and other forms of concessions) is now an established trend building on the coffee shop experience that has been combined with bookstores for many years. Food services is not necessarily viewed as a revenue generator – although it can provide a non-traditional revenue stream – as much as it is intended to be a comfort-oriented service that encourages more frequent visits and longer stays in the library. Cafes and staffed food services tend to be best suited in larger, higher-order branches where foot traffic supports the business viability; however, rural or neighbourhood-level branches can support consumption of food through vending machines and operating practices that allow library users to bring food and drink into appropriate areas of the library. As discussed later in this LFP, a community kitchen space has been identified as a component to consider at the Isabel Turner Branch.

The Kitchen at Edmonton Public Library. Photo Credits: Edmonton Public Library.

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3.5 Library Design Considerations Truth and Reconciliation Events of the past few years have highlighted the critical importance that public education plays in reconciling the buried history of Canada’s past with new actions that begin to bring hope for a unified future. In 2021, KFPL increased the number of Indigenous-focused programs, offering high-profile speakers and providing an opportunity for settlers to learn about Indigenous history while offering programs to commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. KFPL also partnered with the Kingston Indigenous Languages Nest to offer outdoor programming at the Sovereignty Garden geared to Indigenous families.

Saskatoon Central Library (Concept) Photo Credit: Formline Architecture

As learning and gathering places, libraries foster exploration of Canada’s pre-colonial past and enrich our outlook with the deep knowledge that comes from seeking diverse views and alternative understandings. The development or renovation of any library is an opportunity to move to a deeply embedded commitment to working with Indigenous communities. The facility planning and design process should seek ways to learn from Indigenous ways of seeing while collectively exploring how a library might better integrate its past and present with its future plans, enrich how a library transforms from space to place, and shape the way people inhabit and use it. To promote awareness and understanding of Indigenous culture, the physical space can be designed to reflect design elements found in Indigenous communities. Considering built libraries “as part of the land” on which they are situated is a design principle long embodied by Indigenous communities but is also congruent with current principles of environmental sustainability. Toronto Public Library’s design for Dawes Road Library celebrates Indigenous values of living on the land, sharing gifts of knowledge and supporting creativity. It reflects traditions such as the star blanket, roundhouse and is targeting zero-carbon emissions. The new Saskatoon Central Library is also taking design cues inspired by Indigenous and Métis culture including a mass timber structure to express the importance of wood, rooted in the log poles of the tipi and the log cabin; Dawes Road Library and Saskatoon Public Library are currently in the conceptual phases, have retained Indigenous architects and are consulting with Indigenous communities.

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Howe Island Branch, Howe Island

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Within the built space, libraries are a place to showcase Indigenous art and integrate Indigenous materials in the collection. Common areas, program rooms, makerspaces and other areas are places where collaborative program delivery for Indigenous and Non-Indigenous library users can occur (e.g., to share knowledge, teach language, use makerspaces to create video or audio recordings of oral traditions, etc.). Similarly, the library’s outdoor space can be designed to reflect the connection to the land from native species plantings to built elements such as sacred fires and space conducive to sharing circles. The LFP recommends engaging Indigenous communities to inform designs for new or substantially renovated KFPL branches, along with other consultations aimed at improving inclusivity in existing spaces. Inclusivity Designing public spaces to be welcoming and inviting for all people is critical to building a cohesive community. Libraries are facilities that quite literally gather different viewpoints through their collections and work towards programs to suit many; therefore, libraries are inherently the physical embodiment of people coming together. Designing libraries to be inclusive is not a new or trending element for KFPL, but rather one where continued learning takes place so that library branches and services are universally welcoming to any resident that wishes to use them. KFPL capital projects have regard for documents such as the City of Kingston’s Multi-Year Accessibility Plan and Facility Accessibility Design Standards, as well as Frontenac County’s Joint Multi-Year Accessibility Plan. Accessibility can always be improved so that branches are inclusive. Some considerations for KFPL are to shorten bookshelves to suit individuals with low reach abilities, widening circulation paths for larger mobility devices and strollers, providing non-gendered and universal washrooms with change tables, and improving service counter configurations to suit different needs of staff and patrons. In addition, providing accommodation for those who have hearing and vocal challenges such as hard-of-hearing technology or assistive speaking devices in meeting rooms and at service counters would go a great distance with ensuring comfort for all. Lower lighting, sound attenuation and comfortable colour schemes can also aid those with sensory needs. Such actions could be carried out in tandem with interior furniture and shelving reconfigurations or minor renovations at a given KFPL branch. Integration of Technology As KFPL embraces larger electronic collections and the “internet of things”, its library branches will need to explore upgrades to their electrical infrastructure as well as consider new spatial configurations and types of furniture to suit the expectations that library users have about access to technology. For example, under-carpet cabling systems that allow for power

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and data connection flexibility could open up potential for adapting former bookshelf spaces to work, or lounging spaces. Smaller details may include providing seating with a surface for laptop use while lounging and lighting that does not create a glare on monitors. Large considerations such as designing flexible spaces that extend beyond books and paper to enable content creation, virtual collaboration and equipment collections will challenge standards of what must be considered when planning for the new. KFPL’s entry into makerspaces (Create Space at the Central Branch) underscores the equipment and staffing needs of this service. Environmental Sustainability Addressing climate change is becoming a priority of many communities in order to lead the development of resilient and low-carbon communities. KFPL branches are in various stages of service life and as the state of good repair program advances, upgrades to more energy efficient, type electrical and mechanical equipment, air sealing of building envelopes and improvements in the insulation levels of building glazing, walls and roofs will help minimize energy consumption. The design and construction of new public facilities brings further opportunity to lead and make significant impacts with climate change action. There is a national Green Building Standard for New Construction, using industry standards such as the Canada Green Building Council Zero Carbon Design guide to ensure that a building’s carbon footprint is considered at every stage of its life, starting at the conception stage, to construction, operation and eventual end of use.

LEED Certification Plaque at the Calvin Park Branch

Low embodied carbon for designing facilities must include considerations of prioritizing user comfort over air temperatures, sourcing local and sustainable materials and integrating passive design strategies, such as: •

Orienting the building to take advantage of solar and wind exposures, including natural light and ventilation;

•

Designing elegant structures that minimize material use; and

•

Detailing buildings to ensure long operational life and lower maintenance costs.

Meeting these standards for all future library work will upgrade existing libraries to the 21st century and ensure that KFPL will be at the forefront of the industry internationally. P

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3.6 Impacts of COVID-19 After the 2008 financial crisis, the American Library Association (ALA) found that the recession drove more Americans to libraries in search of employment resources. The ALA report stated that “Hard times bring libraries’ value into sharper focus” and that public libraries were a critical part of helping unemployed workers navigate the online job market, learn new skills (including resume building), deliver continuing education programs, and access government services. 6 Closure of schools and postsecondary educational institutions may drive students to a library branch to use computer and internet services, particularly for those that do not have the means to access the technology at home. 5FP

“Since COVID, two things have saved my life – CBC Radio and Librarians.” ~ Rideau Heights Branch User Comment

In a more recent report, the ALA President stated that despite the challenges brought on by COVID-19, 2021 “also proved to be a year of opportunity, as libraries kept Americans connected in ways that brought our communities closer. Buildings may not have been open, but libraries were never closed.” 7 The same quote is applicable to libraries in Canada. With certain parallels between the 2008 economic downturn and the COVID-19 pandemic, it is reasonable to expect that Canada’s public library systems will once again be relied upon as a pillar of resiliency. That being said, the 2008 ALA report found that funding lagged following the recession as state and city budgets were cut, resulting in reduced library budgets and hindering their ability to operate at full capacity in the months that followed. In Canada, it remains to be seen if pandemicrelated stimulus from senior levels of government will be sufficient to allow libraries to maintain their current funding allocations, and how funding will compare to the level of need being placed on the public library system as a result of any economic downturn. 6FP

Given that the pandemic has now been ongoing for more than two years, the long-term projection is less certain and much will depend on the duration and severity of the COVID-19 pandemic. Concerns about gatherings may keep some people away from library programs/events and crowded spaces. To be successful, KFPL must continue to look to research and lessons from across the world and invest time and resources in new technologies and approaches that assist in realizing the many benefits associated with access to library services.

6 American Library Association. The State of America’s Libraries. p.i 7 America Library Association. State of America’s Libraries Special

Report: COVID-19. Libraries Serve as First Restorers. p.4

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4.0 Planning Framework This Section assesses the need for library space across the Kingston-Frontenac region while also looking at each existing library branch located in the five municipalities being served by KFPL.

4.1

Urban & Rural Branches

Branches across Kingston-Frontenac have different design and operating characteristics that can be primarily attributed to KFPL’s origins as the separate Kingston Public Library and Frontenac County Library systems. While Kingston previously operated under a two-tier centralized model consisting of the Central Branch and smaller branches, the County system employed a decentralized approach that provided branches in key settlements. The origins of the library system are important because many of the pre-amalgamated branches found throughout Kingston-Frontenac remain in operation to this day. While some have closed and others have been redeveloped or rebuilt, KFPL is operating what can be referred to as “Urban Libraries” and “Rural Libraries” based on its historical models. KFPL provides 130,184 ft2 of Gross Floor Area (GFA) across its 16 branches. The Central Branch accounts for 46% of all space in the KFPL system with the remaining urban libraries form another 43% of the system-wide GFA, meaning that 89% of KFPL’s total GFA is located within the City of Kingston. The rural branches constitute 11% of the KFPL supply. P

“I hope the library will stay, I use it for entertainment, it’s clean and bright and nice place to come and read or use the computer. I’m busy with my farm and I’m so glad it’s right in Mountain Grove although I do go to the Sharbot Lake Branch as well when I’m there for shopping and post office/bank.” ~ Mountain Grove Branch User Comment

Figure 11: Allocation of Space by Branch Type Central Branch, 46%

Urban Branches, 43%

Rural Branches, 11%

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4.2

Per Capita Rates of Provision

Use of per capita standards remains as a reasonable methodology for most urban and rural library systems to project high-level needs. Despite the recent evolution of library holdings and roles, library usage levels remain strong and a standards-based approach endures. The amount of space required by a public library depends on the unique needs of the individual community. The assessment of local needs may be assisted by documents such as the Ontario Public Library Guidelines (Ontario Public Library Guidelines Monitoring and Accreditation Council, 7th edition 2017) and Guidelines for Rural/Urban Public Library Systems (Administrators of Rural-Urban Public Libraries of Ontario – ARUPLO, 3rd edition 2017), which provide several measures to assist libraries in future planning in areas such as staffing, space, collection size, collection use and hours. P

A metric of 0.6 square feet per capita was traditionally advanced by provincial library bodies for system-wide space assessments. In more recent years, a higher measure of 1.0 square feet per capita has been promoted within the sector though the ability of a library system to attain any guideline is largely a function of: a) the size of their population; b) the amount of library space historically provided; and c) funding allocated by municipalities to their library system. It bears noting that these traditional guidelines do not convey quality, convenience, or user satisfaction. Therefore, regular public engagement is vital to identifying local measures of success.

Pittsburgh Branch, Kingston

KFPL’s system-wide supply of library space of 130,184 square feet translates into 0.8 square feet per capita, positioning it on the upper end of the guidelines which is necessary given the vast geographic territory being served as well as the needs generated by seasonal populations during the summer months. Segmenting service levels by branch types in relation to the populations that they serve results in the following: •

Central Branch – 0.37 square feet per capita based on Frontenac County’s population of 161,780;

•

Urban Branches – 0.42 square feet per capita based on the City of Kingston’s population of 132,485; and

•

Rural Branches – 0.49 square feet per capita based on a population of 29,295 across the four Townships.

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KFPL’s 2010 Branch Services Master Plan recorded 124,325 square feet which resulted in a provision rate of 0.86 square feet per capita at that time. Since that plan was prepared, KFPL has replaced its former Kingscourt branch with the new Rideau Heights Branch, replaced the Mountain Grove Library with a new branch that nearly doubled its GFA, closed the former Ompah Branch, and renovated the Central Branch and Arden Branch. As a result, KFPL has added nearly 6,000 square feet to its supply. Although the provision rate has decreased from 0.86 to 0.80 square feet of space, KFPL has done a commendable job of trying to keep pace with population growth over the past five years of which some was unexpected particularly in the rural areas. KFPL and its funding partners remain positioned to leverage growth-related funding by maintaining similar historical levels of service that are used to calculate Development Charges that help pay for the cost of building new library branches that are required as a result of population growth. Although KFPL’s GFA is predominantly concentrated in the City of Kingston and results in a local provision rate that is above the system-wide average of 0.8 square feet per capita, certain Townships also have a relatively strong level of service in relation to their populations. In fact, the Frontenac Islands delivers the highest space per capita rate of any municipality in the KFPL catchment despite having less than 2,000 square feet in total. On the other hand, South Frontenac is likely facing the greatest pressures as its provision rate of 0.37 square feet per capita is the lowest in KFPL and is approximately 40% lower than North Frontenac which ranks fourth out of the five municipalities (Figure 12).

4.3

Comparisons to Other Library Systems

A benchmarking exercise was undertaken among public library systems in Ontario serving populations between 100,000 and 250,000 people. The average per capita library space provision was 0.5 square feet per capita with KFPL operating the most service points, providing the highest total GFA and library space per capita. Part of KFPL’s strong level of service is attributable to its roots as two separate library systems that are now combined as a Union Library along with it serving a much larger geographic territory than many of the benchmarked systems. Since a number of these library systems do not serve seasonal residents and out-of-town postsecondary students, these populations were not included in the comparison; however, the population served KFPL’s rural branches approximately doubles in size during the summer months and inclusion of these seasonal residents decreases KFPL’s service level to 0.69 square feet per capita; the total postsecondary student population is not known but would decrease this rate further. Kingston Frontenac Public Library Facilities Plan Monteith Brown Planning Consultants Ltd. | MJMA Architecture & Design

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4.0 Planning Framework Figure 12: Library Space Provision Rate by Municipality

0.93

0.87 Square Feet Per Capita

0.75 0.61 0.37

Kingston

North Frontenac

Central Frontenac

South Frontenac

Frontenac Islands

Municipality

Total GFA

Sq. Ft. Per Capita

Kingston

115,904 sq.ft.

0.87

North Frontenac*

1,399 sq.ft.

0.61

Central Frontenac*

3,693 sq.ft.

0.75

South Frontenac*

7,384 sq.ft.

0.37

Frontenac Islands*

1,804 sq.ft.

0.93

130,184 sq.ft.

0.80

Total GFA

An estimated 28,000 seasonal residents (approximate) attributable to the four Townships have been excluded from these calculations, and thus the rate of service among rural libraries would be lower than shown for a portion of the year. Notes: the City of Kingston service level includes the Central Branch which - despite serving the entire library system - is allocated entirely to Kingston residents for purposes of comparison due to travel distance-related factors to outlying rural areas. Provision rates for each municipality are based on their 2021 Census populations while the system-wide rate is based on 2021 Census population for Frontenac County.

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4.4

System-Wide Library Space Needs

Kingston-Frontenac Catchment Findings from research and LFP consultations re-affirm that KFPL is providing an appropriate amount of space in terms of the number of service points and on a per capita basis. Community input and analysis, however, demonstrate pressures are being placed on KFPL libraries, particularly with nearly two out of every three library branches being less than 2,000 square feet in size; the small branch sizes result in functional limitations that prevent them from delivering the wide range of programs and services being sought in some settlement areas throughout Kingston-Frontenac.

“The library is vital for avid readers, and offers an inexpensive family outing.” ~Storrington Branch User Comment

Population growth in Kingston-Frontenac is forecasted to continue over the next 20 years, potentially with stronger rates if the past five years provide any indication. Growth projections prepared for the City of Kingston 8 and the County of Frontenac 9 suggest that KFPL could be serving upwards of 176,400 permanent residents by the year 2031 and nearly 190,000 persons by the year 2041. This amount of growth represents more than 28,000 new permanent residents over the next 20 years, a 17% increase over Frontenac County’s 2021 Census population of 161,780. As an added pressure point, the nearly 28,000 seasonal residents living in Frontenac County who contribute to library use - are projected to increase by 1,700 persons by 2041 while Kingston’s postsecondary student population draws tens of thousands of additional people into the city during the school year. 7FP

8FP

LFP consultations reinforced the need for more space, not less, a sentiment supported by literature and best practices in the library sector. For example, ARUPLO standards previously referenced in Section 4.2 have moved to a higher rate of library space per capita in recent years due to the added space required to make libraries compliant with AODA legislation (e.g. lower but more shelving, wider aisle widths, etc. to accommodate persons with disabilities), sufficient areas devoted to collections, computer workstations and user seating, as well as other public service and staff areas.

Central Branch, Kingston

8 City of Kingston. 2019. Population, Housing & Employment Growth Forecast,

2016-2046. High Population Growth Scenario. 9 County of Frontenac. 2020. Population, Housing & Employment Projections

Study. Preferred Growth Scenario

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It is recommended that the existing service level of 0.8 square feet per capita be maintained to ensure that KFPL: •

falls within the range supported by provincial library bodies and sector leaders such as ARUPLO that have rationalized service level standards using evidencebased approaches;

•

is able to maintain its service levels in line with program and service needs expressed by its public;

•

aligns with rates of service being targeted by a number of peer library systems,

•

provides capacity to address peak-season demands generated by seasonal residents and postsecondary student populations for a portion of the year;

•

keeps pace with needs arising from population growth; and

•

promotes fiscal responsibility and sustainability by maintaining historic levels of service that are used to determine growth-related funding for eligible capital projects through Development Charges.

KFPL should maintain its service level of 0.8 square feet per capita to deliver the range of library programs and services requested by the public and keep pace with population growth. This would require nearly 21,700 square feet of net new library space to be added by the year 2041.

In maintaining the current service level, KFPL would require a total supply of 141,128 square feet in 2031 and 151,888 square feet in 2041 based on existing population growth forecasts. To achieve this system-wide GFA, an additional 11,000 square feet would be required over the next 10 years plus another 11,700 square feet in the 10-year period between 2031 and 2041. Table 3: System-Wide Projection of Library Space Needs, 2021-2041 Forecasted Population

Library Space Provided*

Library Space Needs @ 0.8 ft2 per capita

Deviation from Existing Supply

2021

161,780

130,184 ft2

129,424 ft2

+760 ft2

2031

176,410

130,184 ft2

141,128 ft2

10,944 ft2

2041

189,860

130,184 ft2

151,888 ft2

-21,704 ft2

Year

Population Sources: City of Kingston Population, Housing & Employment Growth Forecast, 20162046 (High Population Growth Scenario); County of Frontenac Population, Housing & Employment Projections Study (Preferred Growth Scenario), 2020.

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City of Kingston Catchment Of the 28,000 new residents projected to arrive in Frontenac County by the year 2041, 25,000 persons are forecasted to live in the City of Kingston (89% of the County share). Accordingly, the majority of growth-related needs for library services will be generated within the City of Kingston and predominantly within its designated urban growth areas. KFPL’s investments in the past five years at Rideau Heights and Central Branch have been proactive and position the urban branches to meet the growth-related needs of Kingston’s population over the next 10 years. By the year 2041, however, Kingston will require 10,000 square feet of net new library space to be added based on projected population growth. This square footage may be allocated through construction of a new library branch, expansion of one or more existing branches, or a combination thereof based upon the geographic distribution of future populations.

By the year 2041, the City of Kingston will require 10,000 square feet of net new library space based on projected population growth.

As shown in Section 4.5’s spatial analysis, there is a slight geographic service gap in Kingston’s south-west. Growthrelated pressures in the City’s east and certain established neighbourhoods, however, are such that it would be more effective to expand existing branches (as discussed in Section 5.0) instead of allocating the majority of 20-year space needs to constructing a new branch. Table 4: Projection of Library Space Needs for the City of Kingston, 2021-2041 Forecasted Population

Library Space Provided*

Library Space Needs @ 0.8 ft2 per capita

Deviation from Existing Supply

2021

132,485

115,904 ft2

105,988 ft2

+9,916 ft2

2031

145,700

115,904 ft2

116,560 ft2

656 ft2

2041

157,400

115,904 ft2

125,920 ft2

-10,016 ft2

Year

Includes Central Branch GFA of 60,030 square feet Population Sources: City of Kingston Population, Housing & Employment Growth Forecast, 20162046 (High Population Growth Scenario)

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Townships / Rural Catchment With the exception of South Frontenac, the amount of library space provided directly in the other Townships is sufficient to meet their 20-year needs based on Frontenac County’s growth forecasts (Table 5). While modest deficits (i.e. a few hundred square feet) are projected in North Frontenac, Central Frontenac and Frontenac Islands based on a 0.8 square feet per capita service level, their projected service levels remain at or above those attained in other library systems across Ontario.

With the exception of South Frontenac, the amount of library space provided directly in the Townships is sufficient to meet their 20-year needs.

Further, it would not be cost-effective to expand individual libraries or construct new branches at the small scale projected due to a lack of financial economies of scale from such minor construction projects. Instead, it would be more prudent to rebuild any existing branch deemed to have reached its asset end-of-life and/or whose functional limitations inhibit the delivery of required library services. South Frontenac, however, would appear to be under the greatest degree of pressure for rural library service. As noted previously in Section 1.3, the Storrington Branch receives the fifth-most number of visits per square foot in the KFPL system and the second highest circulation rate per square foot while the Sydenham Branch ranked fifth for total circulation. Earlier in this Section, South Frontenac’s GFA per capita was presented as the lowest in the library system falling under 0.4 square feet per capita. This low level of service results in a significant space deficit relative to the other municipalities as shown in Table 5. To meet the systemwide average of 0.8 square feet per capita, South Frontenac would require 8,766 additional square feet of library space based on its 2021 population. In effect, the current space deficit in South Frontenac is similar to the current space surplus in Kingston. Given the degree of historical and forecasted growth, KFPL made a strategic decision to build up its GFA in the urban area and the amount of growth in Kingston will continue to warrant additional space within the City boundaries. Whereas this LFP has indicated that new space should be added in Kingston after the year 2031, building up the amount of space in South Frontenac should be a priority for the first 10 years of this planning period (i.e. prior to 2031)

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4.0 Planning Framework Table 5: Projection of Library Space Needs by Township, 2021-2041

Year

2021

2031

2041

North Frontenac - Population

2,285

2,070

2,100

←

Existing Supply

1,399 ft2 P

→

Library Space Needs @ 0.8 ft2 per capita

1,828

1,656

1,680

Deviation from Existing Supply (ft2)

4,892

4,720

4,760

Central Frontenac - Population

←

Existing Supply

3,693 ft2 P

→

Library Space Needs @ 0.8 ft2 per capita

3,914

3,776

3,808

Deviation from Existing Supply (ft2)

20,188

21,760

23,220

South Frontenac - Population

←

Existing Supply

7,384 ft2 P

→

Library Space Needs @ 0.8 ft2 per capita

16,150

17,408

18,576

Deviation from Existing Supply (ft2)

8,766

-10,024

11,192

1,930

2,160

2,380

Frontenac Islands - Population

←

Existing Supply

1,804 ft2 P

→

Library Space Needs @ 0.8 ft2 per capita

1,544

1,728

1,904

Deviation from Existing Supply (ft2)

-100

23,436

24,568

25,968

9,156
10,288
11,688

Townships’ Total Space Needs @ 0.8 ft2 per capita Deviation from Townships’ Supply of 14,280 ft2 P

Note: Townships’ supplies exclude allocations from Central Branch GFA notwithstanding that it services the entire KFPL catchment area

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4.5

Spatial Analysis

KFPL’s branches service localized catchment areas but depending upon the design and services offered at a given branch, its reach may extend further where people are willing or able to travel longer periods to reach it. The size of a library’s geographic catchment is also dictated by whether it is an urban or rural branch; KFPL’s urban branches have a smaller catchment size but serve more people within it than would a rural branch whereas rural branches have a larger catchment size due to the dispersed nature of their populations and shorter travel times by car due to less traffic congestion.

“The Plevna branch is well located for where I live, all other branches are too far to drive.” ~ Plevna Branch User Comment

With library systems operating under a premise to serve as many people as possible and be a place for all, the ability to reach a library is an important consideration. Equity for urban and rural populations without regular access to a motorized vehicle must be factored, particularly where public transit or active transportation infrastructure (bike lanes, trails, sidewalks, etc.) is deficient or not available. On this basis, the LFP analyzes library service catchments using a radius of: •

2.5 kilometres for urban branches, generally equating to a 7 to 10 minute drive, 20 minute bicycle trip and 30 minute walk; and

•

5.0 kilometres for rural branches, equating to a 10 to 12 minute drive and a 20 to 30 minute bicycle trip (note: most pedestrians are unlikely to walk between settlement areas).

The distributional analysis presented in Map 2 illustrates the following: •

Kingston – strong geographic coverage in its urban settlement boundaries with a minor gap located west of the airport to Days Road;

•

North Frontenac – sizeable geographic service gaps in its northern and eastern areas, noting that its highly dispersed population is a contributing factor particularly when considering its space per capita ratio is in line with provincial guidelines;

•

Central Frontenac – good east-west distribution between the Arden, Mountain Grove and Sharbot Lake settlements;

•

South Frontenac – good distribution in its south and western areas, though a gap exists in its east (where population densities are low).

•

Frontenac Islands – satisfactory distribution, particularly in the north-west part of Wolfe Island and the west side of Howe Island, with geographic gaps mitigated by the Islands having the strongest space per capita ratio in the KFPL system.

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4.0 Planning Framework Map 2: Geographic Distribution of KFPL Branches

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4.0 Planning Framework

4.6

KFPL Hours of Operation

Although hours of operation are technically excluded from the LFP scope of work as an operational/service delivery matter, feedback received through community engagement regarding a desire for greater access to KFPL’s libraries warrants a brief discussion about the topic. The following discussion can be used to inform subsequent work by KFPL including its Strategic Plan and any operational analysis. Preceding assessments articulate that KFPL’s space per capita ratio as being relatively strong, even in certain rural branches where total GFA provided is low but appropriately indexed to the total populations being served. This would suggest that the existing number of service points is generally appropriate but the issue of access to the library remains. Based on KFPL’s current funding, certain branches can only open for 6 to 10 hours across three days in a given week. As noted in the Trends section of the LFP, express libraries and extended access are some of the ways that library systems are providing additional service within their fiscal operating constraints. KFPL will need to pursue strategies that allow longer operating branches where usage and community feedback warrants such an approach.

4.7

Recommendations

Rec. #1

Rec. #2

Rec. #3

In line with best practices, applicable legislation and objectives of specific municipalities in Frontenac County, undertake audits of barrierfree accessibility - considering persons with disabilities, neuro-diverse individuals and persons with other special needs - and energy efficiency for all branches that have not completed such an exercise in the past 5 years.

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4.0 Planning Framework

Rec. #4

Rec. #5

Rec. #6

Rec. #7

Rec. #8

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5.0 Kingston Branches

5.0 Kingston Branches KFPL operates five branches in the City of Kingston, all of which are located in the designated urban area. Service level and spatial assessments presented in Section 4.0 of the LFP indicate that Kingston will be well supplied with library space until 2031 although there will be a need to add 10,000 square feet in Kingston in order to keep pace with projected population growth to the year 2041. This Section evaluates branches already found in Kingston and identifies opportunities to improve the physical space provided through them. This includes the following space additions in order to address the 10,000 square feet of new space required in Kingston: • •

a 3,000 square foot expansion to the Calvin Park Branch; and a 7,000 square foot expansion to the Pittsburgh Branch.

Please note that branch visitation and circulation statistics reflect 2019 totals (pre-COVID-19) unless otherwise noted. Map 3: Geographic Distribution of Branches, City of Kingston

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5.0 Kingston Branches

5.1

Central Branch

The Central Branch is located in downtown Kingston at the intersection of Bagot Street and Johnson Street. The multi-storey library reopened in 2019 after a $14 million renovation and was recently awarded a LEED Gold certification in recognition of its environmentally progressive design. As part of the Sydenham Cultural District, retention of the historical façade contributes to the City’s cultural preservation objectives and a restoration of the Bishop’s House exterior façade is underway. The renovation also resulted in a number of barrier-free accessibility improvements to make the space more inclusive for persons with disabilities. Central Branch predominantly serves the urban population of Kingston though it is the administrative and programming centre of the entire library system as well as providing specialized collections and reference materials. Central Branch was the thirdmost visited and circulating branch in 2019 with branch staff suggesting that fewer families are using the library due to aging population trends in the downtown along with escalating housing costs and limited parking. Central Branch’s visitation and circulation rates were also affected by its two and a half year renovation prior to re-opening in March 2019 as a number of its former users may have continued to use other branches that they become accustomed to during the closure.

Branch Snapshot Address: Library Type: Floor Area:

130 Johnson Street Stand-Alone 60,030 ft2

Year Opened: Major Reno:

1978 2019

Branch Visits:

135,219 14.9 visits per ft2

Circulation:

205,750 2.3 items per ft2 P

That being said, the City of Kingston has placed a greater focus on reinvesting in its core areas and is encouraging higher density and more affordable forms of housing which may increase the number of people using the Central Branch in the future. The fact that Central Branch receives the highest number of patron queries and internet uses speaks to its importance as a place for residents and workers in the downtown to be connected. With its complete renovation including structural and mechanical enhancements, Central Branch is well positioned to meet needs over the next 20 years. While the Library may be undersized relative to provincial guidelines referenced in its 2010 Branch Services Master Plan, KFPL made a strategic decision to respect the heritage building and operate without major structural alterations. Capital investments over the next 20 years are envisioned to focus on requisite asset management activities that keep the branch in a good state of repair.

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Central Branch

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5.0 Kingston Branches Figure 13: Central Branch, Site Plan

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5.0 Kingston Branches

5.2

Calvin Park

The Calvin Park Branch has been serving residents of Kingston since 1966; the library was relocated and rebuilt as a new standalone branch in 2009, and is a LEED Gold building. Calvin Park is one of KFPL’s busiest branches as measured by number of visits and circulation, both in terms of total and on a square foot basis (Calvin Park ranks above all other branches in terms of circulation per square foot). Calvin Park Branch shares part of its catchment area with the Central Branch, notably well-established neighbourhoods located to the east of Sir John A. Macdonald Boulevard. In fact, some residents living slightly outside of the catchment area within the downtown rely upon Calvin Park Branch more so than the Central Branch, particularly those that do not want to travel into the downtown or are seek out more convenient parking. Its location makes it ideal for such library users to pick-up and drop-off items which contributes to its strong circulation.

Branch Snapshot Address: Library Type: Floor Area:

88 Wright Crescent Stand-Alone 13,186 ft2

Year Opened: Major Reno:

2009 (new location) Not Applicable

Branch Visits:

176,573 13.4 visits per ft2

Circulation:

253,103 19.2 items per ft2 P

The branch is fairly young in its lifecycle and remains in good condition. KFPL has explored plans to revitalize the exterior courtyard with seating and picnic areas, nature-inspired play elements, outdoor art and a community garden. Improving the aesthetics and furnishings of the Teen Area should also be considered to encourage greater usage given that the library is located near other youth-serving destinations such as the Kingston YMCA and a number of schools. With this in mind, additional study space should be considered as well. In the interim, KFPL should engage the community in developing strategies to improve inclusivity, with a particular focus on Indigenous peoples, newcomer communities and neuro-diverse users. While the size of the site is fairly limited, particularly with the addition of the outdoor elements, there may be opportunity to undertake a modest expansion to the building’s east and south to meet part of the additional space being recommended in Kingston between 2031 and 2041; however, expansion of the building footprint along with additional parking requirements would likely require reconfiguration of the existing parking lot and laneway.

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5.0 Kingston Branches

Expansion to a minimum of 16,000 square feet (i.e. a net addition of 2,800 square feet) would help to alleviate post-2031 growth pressures placed on Calvin Park Branch as well as reliance on the branch from populations living outside of its catchment area. Expansion may also help the branch keep pace with intensification and infill development projects that will increase the number of people living in Kingston’s core areas. Figure 14: Calvin Park Branch, Site Plan

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5.0 Kingston Branches

5.3

Isabel Turner

Isabel Turner Branch is the second largest branch operated by KFPL with only the Central Branch being larger. It serves northwest Kingston and is co-located with the Lions Civic Gardens which provides a pleasant atmosphere for indoor and outdoor library users. Isabel Turner Branch is KFPL’s busiest branch, generating the highest visitation and circulation totals in the library system. Its large floor area is spread across two floors which reduces the level of intensity on a square foot basis but nevertheless, more than one out of every three visits to a KFPL branch (36%) was directed to Isabel Turner Branch. In addition to high visitation and borrowing rates, the library is in demand for study space among secondary and post-secondary students. Use of the branch is bolstered by being situated directly along one of Kingston Transit’s express corridors along with its location adjacent to the Cataraqui Centre as well as near the Princess Street and Gardiner’s Road commercial corridors.

Branch Snapshot Address: Library Type: Floor Area:

935 Gardiners Road Stand-Alone 31,990 ft2

Year Opened: Major Reno:

1997 Not Applicable

Branch Visits:

243,333 7.6 visits per ft2

Circulation:

358,064 11.2 items per ft2 P

The library has now been in service for 25 years and while it continues to provide an attractive user experience, furnishings and fixtures are beginning to show their age while certain mechanical components will need to be replaced. Acoustics in the branch are such that noise from the animated spaces travels to areas intended for quieter use. As a larger branch requiring greater staffing resources than most other branches, the amount of administrative space to carry out staff functions is also becoming increasingly constrained as public demands for library services have increased since the branch was originally built.

Isabel Turner Branch

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5.0 Kingston Branches

While a physical expansion of Isabel Turner Branch has not been recommended through the LFP, there is strong merit in revisiting its floor plan to determine if it can be enhanced in light of its strong level of use and future trends guiding the design of library space. At a minimum, KFPL should investigate the following for Isabel Turner Branch: •

Optimizing the utilization potential of the lower level, potentially with additional space devoted to individual study and group collaboration;

•

Reconfiguring the front desk to make better use of space;

•

Improving sound attenuation measures;

•

Enlarging the Children’s Area while exploring the feasibility of improving the Teen Area and/or adding makerspace;

•

Providing a small kitchen to support library programs (this has been done at the Rideau Heights Community Centre but no such space exists in west Kingston);

•

Updating barrier-free accessibility along with providing a genderneutral washroom and features for neuro-diverse users to enhance inclusivity;

•

Optimizing and/or increasing the amount of space devoted to administration and effective staff operation of the branch; and

•

Reconfiguring the parking lot to improve circulation by vehicles and pedestrians.

There is also an opportunity to integrate the branch with the adjacent parkland so that library users can benefit from the natural beauty of the Lions Civic Gardens. Branch staff sometimes report that supervision of the eastern exterior stairwell can be challenging and there is an opportunity to potentially enclose a portion of the land beside it as a reading garden. In line with an earlier recommendation of this LFP, consultation with Indigenous communities should be undertaken along with other groups such as youth and multi-cultural populations to aid in the design process.

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5.0 Kingston Branches Figure 15: Isabel Turner Branch, Site Plan

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5.0 Kingston Branches Figure 16: Isabel Turner Branch, Floor Plan

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5.0 Kingston Branches

5.4

Pittsburgh

The farmhouse incorporated in the Pittsburgh Branch dates back to 1863. Certain heritage elements were maintained in the architectural design of the current site. The library was relocated to this building in 2000. The library is located in the eastern portion of Kingston’s urban area at Gore Road and Highway 15, near CFB Kingston and a number of newer residential subdivisions that have been built over the past 20 years. Being located near new and affordable housing units in Kingston, Pittsburgh Branch attracts a number of families with children. It received the fourth-highest number of in-person visits in 2019 and was the third-highest circulating branch on a per square foot basis. With additional populations being planned through developments east of the Cataraqui River, pressures placed on the Pittsburgh Branch are expected to increase. The City’s Waaban Crossing bridge project located immediately south of the Pittsburgh Branch (along with other roadway improvements) will provide a direct connection to John Counter Boulevard and add to the growth-related pressures placed on the branch.

Branch Snapshot Address: Library Type: Floor Area:

80 Gore Road Stand-Alone 5,018 ft2

Year Opened: Major Reno:

2000 Not Applicable

Branch Visits:

42,699 8.5 visits per ft2

Circulation:

72,970 14.5 items per ft2 P

As such, Pittsburgh Branch will require an expansion if it is to serve new populations forecasted over the next 20 years. It is recommended that the branch be expanded to a minimum of 12,000 square feet thereby requiring an addition of at least 7,000 square feet. The Waaban Crossing may affect the library’s site and in turn increase the project’s architectural complexity, in addition to navigating the building’s heritage designation. A 12,000 square foot library will allow KFPL to respond to service needs for additional programs, workstations, study space, children’s collections and storage. A major capital project would upgrade the library’s technological infrastructure with additional equipment/services and expand KFPL’s Create Space service (makerspace) into the east end. Opportunities to improve barrier-free accessibility will also arise out of the expansion project including providing barrier-free access to the second floor of the heritage farmhouse while possibly enabling more program and service delivery in that space. KFPL should also explore the feasibility of reclaiming and reprogramming the existing sunroom space to function more effectively (the sunroom’s comfort is impacted by less than comfortable temperatures during the hot and colder months).

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5.0 Kingston Branches

A 4,000 to 6,000 square foot expansion of the Pittsburgh Branch was recommended in KFPL’s 2010 Branch Services Master Plan for its third year of implementation (i.e. 2013). The urgent need to replace end-of-life and failing infrastructure at the Central Branch and the opportunity to construct a branch within the new Rideau Heights Community Centre moved the Pittsburgh Branch project forward in the capital plan until 2020. Funding for the project was then deferred by Kingston City Council in order to fund its other strategic priorities, and to align with the nearby work on the Waaban Crossing. The City of Kingston’s current 15-year capital budget for library services identifies the expansion for the year 2028. Based on the 10-year supply of library space in Kingston being adequate, the ongoing bridge construction and roadway improvements underway, and pressures for new library space in rural areas, the LFP supports deferral of the Pittsburgh Branch expansion to the next 5 to 7 years. In line with an earlier recommendation of this LFP, consultation with Indigenous communities should be undertaken along with other groups such as youth, neuro-diverse users, francophone and other multi-cultural populations to aid in the design process.

Pittsburgh Branch

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5.0 Kingston Branches Figure 17: Pittsburgh Branch, Site Plan

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5.0 Kingston Branches

5.5

Rideau Heights

The Rideau Heights Branch is KFPL’s newest service point, reaching neighbourhoods in Kingston’s northeast urban area. Rideau Heights opened in 2018 as a replacement to the former Kingscourt Branch. In line with current best practices in design, the new library is integrated as part of the multi-use Rideau Heights Community Centre which allows it to share certain operating efficiencies such as access to program rooms but also benefit from foot traffic associated with the community centres youth and seniors’ space, gymnasium, hall and kitchen. The library is also situated directly from the Shannon Park sports field complex and skateboard park. Access to the branch is gained directly through the community centre.

Branch Snapshot Address: Library Type:

85 MacCauley Street Integrated with Community Centre

Floor Area:

5,680 ft2

Year Opened: Major Reno:

2018 Not Applicable

Branch Visits:

32,690 5.8 visits per ft2

Circulation:

32,482 5.7 items per ft2 P

Rideau Heights’ catchment area is home to a sizeable population of families and children as an emerging area of the City. In 2019, the library received over 32,690 in-person visits placing it in KFPL’s top five branches. Branch staff indicate that as a new library and being embedded in the community centre, usage may be lower due to certain people being unaware of its existence. Improved visibility into the branch from the hallway and more signage within the community centre would assist in directing people into the library; similarly, more contrasting exterior signage may be helpful as the current design is fairly monochromatic. Seating areas were also identified as being in high demand at this branch. As a new branch, no major capital recommendations have been made for Rideau Heights as investment priorities would be best directed to other branches. Ensuring state-of-good-repair through proactive asset management practices in conjunction with that of the community centre is the optimal path forward.

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5.0 Kingston Branches Figure 18: Rideau Heights Branch, Site Plan

Rideau Heights Branch

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5.0 Kingston Branches

5.6

Recommendations - Kingston

Rec. #9

Calvin Park Branch: Undertake selected improvements to the Calvin Park Branch including: a. courtyard enhancements through seating, shade, and play elements at a minimum; b. improved furnishings and aesthetics to the Teen Area; c. adding individual study group collaboration space; and d. In the longer-term (i.e. post-2031), expand Calvin Park Branch by a minimum of 2,800 square feet so that it provides a total Gross Floor Area of at least 16,000 square feet.

Rec. #10 Isabel Turner Branch: Initiate a formal architectural process to reconfigure and renovate the Isabel Turner Branch. At a minimum, KFPL should explore opportunities to improve functionality for library users and staff by: a. optimizing the library’s floor plan / layout through repositioning shelving and furniture to reclaim useable space for the public and programming, as well as generally improve the functional flow within the library; b. refreshing aesthetics, furnishing and comfort elements within the branch including additional spaces for study along with indoor and outdoor seating; c. enhancing barrier-free accessibility and general inclusivity; d. adding a community kitchen, dedicated area for teens along with a makerspace; and e. adding an enclosed outdoor reading garden adjacent to its eastern exterior stairwell along with seating and shade amenities that would support Library programs at the Lions Civic Gardens.

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5.0 Kingston Branches

Rec. #11

Rec. #12 Rideau Heights Branch: increase exterior signage and general visibility into the Rideau Heights Branch from its shared internal community centre corridor by replacing the solid doors with a glazed entranceway.

Rideau Heights Branch

Pittsburgh Branch

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6.0 North Frontenac Branches

6.0 North Frontenac Branches KFPL operates two branches in the Township of North Frontenac’s Cloyne and Plevna settlement areas. Retention of KFPL’s system-wide space provision rate of 0.8 square feet per capita to North Frontenac would result in the existing GFA being sufficient in relation to 2,100 permanent residents forecasted to be living in the Township over the next 20 years. Therefore, this Section evaluates existing branches in North Frontenac and identifies opportunities to improve the physical space provided through them. Please note that branch visitation and circulation statistics reflect 2019 totals (preCOVID-19) unless otherwise noted. Map 4: Geographic Distribution of Branches, Township of North Frontenac

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6.0 North Frontenac Branches

6.1

Cloyne

The Cloyne Branch services its settlement area and surrounding rural communities. Originally built in 1969 at the corner of Little Pond Road and Highway 41 as a municipal administration building, minor improvements were carried out in 2009 including a new service desk along with updates to painting and shelving. The branch is attached to the Barrie Community Hall but does not share an interior connection; co-location offers certain benefits such as hall rentals for library programs. The remote location, lesser population served in the catchment area and limited amenities as a rural branch are such that inperson visits are among the fewest in the KFPL system (including rural libraries). That being said, circulation rates and internet usage are closer to the rural branch average due in part to the influx of seasonal populations during the summer months. The library entrance and parking lot are located behind the community hall and thus visibility from Highway 41 is limited. The washroom is not accessible for persons with disabilities while the building’s age is beginning to negatively affect interior comfort due to outdated heating and ventilation systems which occasionally contribute unpleasant odours.

Branch Snapshot Address: Library Type: Floor Area:

1011 Little Pond Road Shared with Community Hall 689 ft2

Year Opened: Minor Reno:

1969 2009

Branch Visits:

1,450 2.1 visits per ft2

Circulation:

7,661 11.1 items per ft2 P

Given the shared nature of the site, it could be difficult to reorient, expand or meaningfully reconfigure the library branch without undertaking improvements to the community hall as well. Since the hall is owned by the Township of North Frontenac, there would need to be a business case to rationalize any such investments in relation to its level of use. The preferred strategy for the Cloyne Branch is to engage the Township to determine if there is a need and willingness to reinvest in the entire structure as a major renewal project or rebuild, possibly in conjunction with Kingston Frontenac Lennox & Addington Public Health and/or Limestone District School Board (both of whom operate facilities nearby) to develop a multi-service community hub. In the absence of an interest to rebuild, KFPL should carry out an accessibility audit for this branch and implement its findings, as well as improve the washroom. Given the strong reliance on internet access at the branch, upgrading its technological capacity should also be explored through strengthened Wi-Fi and/or lending out mobile workstations.

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Cloyne Branch

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6.0 North Frontenac Branches Figure 19: Cloyne Branch, Site Plan

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6.0 North Frontenac Branches

6.2

Plevna

Plevna Branch is housed in a former school portable and shares a site with a forestry building. Situated in a remote area, the library received just 900 in-person visits in 2019, the fewest of any KFPL branch, while total circulation is also among the lowest in the system. There is a space allocated at the branch for a local historical society to use and display their works. Being one of the smallest libraries operated by KFPL, there is little room for collections and programming. Branch staff indicate that the majority of use consists of holds pickups and internet usage given that broadband connectivity and mobile internet is poor throughout its catchment area (Plevna’s internet and Wi-Fi use is more than double the rural library average). The limited space also results in having to designate ‘internet-only’ times during which other library services are unavailable.

Branch Snapshot Address: Library Type: Floor Area:

6638 Buckshot Lake Road Stand-Alone 710 ft2

Year Opened: Major Reno:

2010 Not Applicable

Branch Visits:

900 1.3 visits per ft2

Circulation:

3,870 5.5 items per ft2 P

The modular building format does not lend itself to any major expansion potential while the limited usage does not support a business case to construct a new permanent building. Given the demand for items pick-up and drop-off, KFPL could consider installing holds lockers as well as exploring potential to reduce the collection, thereby reclaiming interior space for seating and technology.

Plevna Branch

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6.0 North Frontenac Branches Figure 20: Plevna Branch, Site Plan

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6.0 North Frontenac Branches

6.3

Recommendations – North Frontenac

Rec. #13 Cloyne Branch: Engage the Township of North Frontenac along with Kingston Frontenac Lennox & Addington Public Health, Limestone District School Board and any other prospective partners to determine if interest exists to construct a multiservice community hub. In the absence of interest in such a project, carry out improvements to the library’s overall accessibility, technological capacity as well as updating its washroom. Rec. #14 Plevna Branch: Focus collections services in Plevna more towards being a pick-up and drop-off service point and enabling greater online access. Initiatives to explore include the installation of holds lockers and re-assigning some of the space for collections to seating and technology.

Cloyne Branch

Plevna Branch

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7.0 Central Frontenac Branches

7.0 Central Frontenac Branches KFPL operates four branches in the Township of Central Frontenac, all of which are co-located with municipal buildings such as fire halls, a community hall and the municipality’s administration offices. Retention of KFPL’s system-wide space provision rate of 0.8 square feet per capita to Central Frontenac would result in the existing GFA being sufficient in relation to the population of 4,800 forecasted in the Township over the next 20 years. This Section evaluates opportunities to improve the physical space of existing branches in Central Frontenac. Although previous plans have recommended closure of certain branches in this municipality, the LFP proposes retention of all existing branches as they are important service points. Due to the condition of the Sharbot Lake Branch, a full reconstruction is recommended with a net addition to its GFA that will help KFPL meet a portion of the 10,000 square feet required in its rural communities. The proximity to these branches to the Shabot Obaadjiwan First Nation suggests that the engagement of this community should form part of the design process. Please note that branch visitation and circulation statistics reflect 2019 totals (pre-COVID-19) unless otherwise noted. Map 5: Geographic Distribution of Branches, Township of Central Frontenac

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7.0 Central Frontenac Branches

7.1

Arden

Arden Branch is the smallest branch in the KFPL system at less than 500 square feet. As such, its ability to deliver collections and services is limited although it is co-located with the Kennebec Community Hall (also known as the Arden Community Centre which is a municipally-owned building) which enable rentals for library programs. New flooring and paint improvements were recently carried out. The number of in-person visits is in line with KFPL’s rural library average though circulation is lower likely as a result of the small GFA. Branch staff indicate that a community group regularly meets at this branch which may be a reason that visitation levels may be somewhat higher than expected in such a small library. However, the branch’s washroom is inaccessible for persons with disabilities and the exterior ramp and stairway are showing signs of wear (the Township has scheduled ramp improvements for 2022-23). Accessibility issues are compounded by the fact that washrooms are located in the hall but there is no accessible interior connection to the library, thereby requiring library users to go outside and around the building.

Branch Snapshot Address: Library Type: Floor Area:

5998 Arden Road Shared with Community Hall 495 ft2

Year Opened: Major Reno:

1969 Not Applicable

Branch Visits:

4,250 8.6 visits per ft2

Circulation:

6,509 13.1 items per ft2 P

In addition to addressing accessibility issues (to be further defined through an accessibility audit), recommendations to the branch would be to update its furniture and potentially enhancing outdoor seating either adjacent to the building or into Kennebec Memorial Park. Expansion of the building footprint or a major capital alteration project could be considered but would need the support of the Township of Central Frontenac. Pragmatically, however, the library would not be the driving factor for a major project since the amount of square feet added would be unlikely to justify the cost of the entire project; therefore, should the Township have plans to redevelop the community hall then the library would want to engage in those discussions.

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Arden Branch

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7.0 Central Frontenac Branches Figure 21: Arden Branch, Site Plan

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7.0 Central Frontenac Branches

7.2

Mountain Grove

Mountain Grove Branch was relocated and rebuilt in 2017, and thus is reflective of a modern rural library. The branch was co-located with a Fire Hall that has a community room available for the library to use when needed. Mountain Grove is a fairly remote settlement area and thus the library received just 1,000 in-person visits in 2019; that said, branch staff indicate that there was a drop in visitation following the relocation as the new location has less visibility being located behind the adjacent elementary school. However, the branch serves a number of households experiencing lower-income as well as being isolated as a remote community thereby re-affirming its importance and KFPL’s ongoing investment in the branch.

Branch Snapshot Address: Library Type: Floor Area:

1045 Mill Road Shared with Fire Hall 1,207 ft2

Year Opened: Major Reno:

2017 Not Applicable

Branch Visits:

1,000 0.8 visits per ft2

Circulation:

2,729 2.3 items per ft2 P

As one of KFPL’s newer builds, the branch is generally accessible and offers a pleasant interior experience. As such, no major capital recommendations have been made for Mountain Grove as investment priorities would be best directed to other branches. There is opportunity to improve comfort through furniture and re-orienting/reconfiguring the placement of shelving to optimize space for library guests and branch staff. Ensuring state-of-good-repair through proactive asset management practices in conjunction with that of the Fire Hall is the optimal path forward.

Mountain Grove Branch

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7.0 Central Frontenac Branches Figure 22: Mountain Grove Branch, Site Plan

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7.0 Central Frontenac Branches

7.3

Parham

Parham Branch was relocated from a former school portable and rebuilt in conjunction with a Fire Hall in 2016, considerably improving the library user experience. Parham Branch serves a fairly remote and geographically dispersed population which is the reason for its relatively low level of in-person use and circulation rates. The Fire Hall also contains a program room that is available for community use, including library users. Parham Branch is presently less than 10 years old and thus remains in excellent condition while barrier-free accessibility is also generally good. The branch could benefit from some additional furniture for seating, particularly in the children’s area, and potentially a staff work table. Re-orientation of the customer service desk along with reconfiguration or relocation of some of the bookshelves could also aid in making better use of the existing floor space including for seating and staff work.

Branch Snapshot Address: Library Type: Floor Area:

1282 Wagarville Road Shared with Fire Hall 1,022 ft2

Year Opened: Major Reno:

2016 Not Applicable

Branch Visits:

1,720 1.7 visits per ft2

Circulation:

3,521 3.4 items per ft2 P

Apart from furniture, no major capital projects have been made for Parham Branch - apart from typical asset management activities - since major investment priorities would be better directed to other branches.

Parham Branch

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7.0 Central Frontenac Branches Figure 23: Parham Branch, Site Plan

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7.0 Central Frontenac Branches

7.4

Sharbot Lake

Sharbot Lake Branch is co-located with the Township of Central Frontenac’s municipal offices. Being in a larger rural settlement results in the second highest circulation rate of rural libraries (behind only the Sydenham Branch) and is one of the more visited rural branches which is bolstered in the summer by seasonal residents. With the last major renovation taking place in 1995, Sharbot Lake Branch still provides a quality user experience though some amenities are beginning to show their age. While the branch is generally accessible to persons with disabilities, the washroom is not. Branch staff also indicated pressures being created for additional computer workstations (this could be offset by increasing laptops for in-branch use), storage and vehicular parking.

Branch Snapshot Address: Library Type: Floor Area:

1037 Robert Street Shared with Municipal Office 1,207 ft2

Year Opened: Major Reno:

1969 1995

Branch Visits:

4,050 4.2 visits per ft2

Circulation:

12,522 12.9 items per ft2 P

Populations in Sharbot Lake and surrounding areas would optimally be served by 5,000 square feet of library space, amounting to 3,800 square feet over and above what is currently provided. Expansion to the existing Township office is not seen as a cost-effective approach given its configuration, state of building systems and an understanding that the municipality is seeking additional space for its administration. Instead, construction of a new purpose-built branch would allow KFPL to deliver its services in a more intentional and responsive manner to the community. In addition to services currently offered in Sharbot Lake, a new and larger branch would allow KFPL to deliver additional library programs, technology and address onsite storage needs. It is recognized that expansion has previously been raised for consideration but has yet to be implemented. Should there continue to be insufficient interest or funding to support the addition of library space in Sharbot Lake, there is merit in carrying out a formal branch reconfiguration plan to revisit the existing floor plan and identify alternative layouts that could maximize the usage potential of the library.

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Sharbot Lake Branch

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7.0 Central Frontenac Branches Figure 24: Sharbot Lake Branch, Site Plan

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7.0 Central Frontenac Branches

7.5

Recommendations – Central Frontenac

Rec. #15 Arden Branch: Enhance accessibility for persons with disabilities along with improving outdoor seating areas, potentially in partnership with the Township of Central Frontenac as a revitalization of Kennebec Memorial Park. Rec. #16 Mountain Grove Branch: Integrate more comfortable seating and explore re-orientation of bookshelves to better optimize existing floor space within the Mountain Grove Branch. Rec. #17 Parham Branch: Provide additional in-branch furniture, namely seating for library users along with re-orienting bookshelves and the customer service desk to improve functionality for branch users and staff. Rec. #18 Sharbot Lake Branch: Reconstruct the Sharbot Lake Branch to provide a minimum total Gross Floor Area of 5,000 square feet, amounting to 3,800 square feet above what is presently available. The recommended floor area would allow KFPL to enhance access to technology and library programs as well as address functional limitations with respect to barrier-free accessibility and storage. Should the support not exist to relocate and rebuild the library, KFPL should instead carry out a formal branch reconfiguration study to revisit the existing floor plan and identify alternative layouts that address similar results as being sought through a new build.

Arden Branch

Mountain Grove Branch

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8.0 South Frontenac Branches

8.0 South Frontenac Branches KFPL operates three branches in the Township of South Frontenac. Service level and spatial assessments presented in Section 4.0 of the LFP indicate that South Frontenac offers the lowest ratio of library space per capita which is creating current and future pressures for up to 10,000 square feet of additional library space. This Section evaluates opportunities to improve and expand the physical space provided through South Frontenac’s existing branches. This includes the following space additions in order to address the 10,000 square feet of new space required in South Frontenac and the rural branches as a whole: •

Replacement of Hartington Branch with a new 5,000 square foot branch in Verona, resulting in 4,000 square feet of new space; and

•

A 2,500 square foot expansion to the Storrington Branch.

Please note that branch visitation and circulation statistics reflect 2019 totals (pre-COVID-19) unless otherwise noted. Map 6: Geographic Distribution of Branches, Township of South Frontenac

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8.0 South Frontenac Branches

8.1

Hartington

Hartington Branch has been serving its community, Verona and surrounding agricultural areas out of its current location since 1982. The library is attached to the Princess Anne Community Centre that also assigns space to a charitable second-hand retail outlet. Co-location with these uses, along with an adjacent soccer field and the South Frontenac Museum, may bolster foot traffic in the branch; however, inperson visits are below the rural library average as a result of low population densities in the area and limited hours open.

Branch Snapshot Address: Library Type: Floor Area:

5597 Highway 38 Shared with Community Hall 947 ft2

Year Opened: Minor Reno:

1982 (current location) 2013

Branch Visits:

2,550 2.7 visits per ft2

Given the shortfall of library space in South Frontenac stated in Section 4.4 along with projected growth in Hartington and Verona, 10 there is merit in having a 5,000 square foot branch serve the area (i.e. a net addition of approximately 4,000 square feet over what is currently provided). 9FP

Circulation:

8,266 8.7 items per ft2 P

As a 40 year old building, many building systems in the Hartington Branch are at or near the end of their lifecycle while barrier-free accessibility is not optimal. Expanding the existing structure would not deemed to be a cost-effective undertaking. The preferred strategy would be to decommission the Hartington Branch and replace it with a new 5,000 square foot branch.

Hartington Branch

10 The Township of South Frontenac Growth Analysis Study 2016-2041 (Final Draft, 2020) anticipates 51% of the Township’s future permanent and seasonal population growth in ‘primary’ and ‘secondary’ settlement areas which include Verona and Hartington

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8.0 South Frontenac Branches

In addition to the existing collection and services offered presently in Hartington, the additional GFA in this catchment would allow KFPL to assign additional space for seating, study, computers and in-branch programs. A smaller-scale makerspace could also be considered as part of a new branch (with technology, crafts/sewing equipment, or a kitchen). There are sentiments that the Hartington location is not easily accessible to Verona; this is true from a walkability perspective but the library can be reached within a 5 minute drive and a 20 minute bicycle trip of Verona, the latter of which can take place off-road using the K&P Rail Trail. That said, there is an opportunity to relocate the branch directly in Verona where a recently completed Housing Master Plan identifies two municipally-owned parcels that may be conducive to accommodating a KFPL branch. The Housing Master Plan’s consultation revealed a desire for an ‘indoor amenity space and indoor seniors activities’ while also identifying the need for a “community focal point.” 11 Along with proximity to the K&P Trail which would enable stronger access to the branch, a library in Verona would be located closer to its primary residential base, and would provide indoor amenity and program space. Therefore, the Township of South Frontenac should be engaged to determine the possibility of constructing a branch directly within the Verona Housing Master Plan subject lands or elsewhere in the settlement. 10FP

Should a new branch not be built, Hartington Branch would require a major refresh particularly to improve ventilation, barrier-free accessibility, and space devoted to seating and study. KFPL should engage the Township of South Frontenac to determine its interest in revitalizing or potentially rebuilding the community centre library, museum and possibly the Fire Hall as has been done in Central Frontenac.

11 Township of South Frontenac. 2022. Verona Housing Master Plan Report. p.13, p.19.

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8.0 South Frontenac Branches Figure 25: Hartington Branch, Site Plan

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8.0 South Frontenac Branches

8.2

Storrington

The Storrington branch has been operating out of its present location since 1982, found along Battersea Road in the Sunbury settlement area. The library is co-located on the same site as the Storrington Centre (community hall and kitchen) which can be made available for library programs; a Fire Hall is currently attached but will be relocated and replaced with space for the Township’s Public Works staff. Despite being one of KFPL’s smallest branches, circulation is in line with the rural branch average and results in a strong circulation rate per square foot. In-person visits, while relatively low, were trending upwards leading up to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the small GFA, low visibility from the road and a relatively isolated location, Storrington Branch provides a demonstrable benefit to its users. The building’s age is such that certain mechanical systems and furniture will need replacement in the LFP planning period while barrier-free accessibility should be enhanced.

Branch Snapshot Address: Library Type: Floor Area:

3910 Battersea Road Shared with Community Hall 517 ft2

Year Opened: Minor Reno:

1982 (current location) 2010

Branch Visits:

3,550 6.9 visits per ft2

Circulation:

9,078 17.6 items per ft2 P

The Township of South Frontenac was the recent beneficiary of a $400,000 federal grant to fund a 1,000 square foot addition to the Storrington Centre. While the application did not include the library, strong rationale exists to include the branch as part of a second phase expansion in order to address planned residential growth in the Inverary, Sunbury and Battersea settlements 12 which will generate needs for space beyond what the current branch is able to provide. 1FP

As library space is deficient in South Frontenac, expansion of the Storrington Branch in tandem with an approved building project would seem logical and provide much needed space to connect rural residents with technology and other library services. Furthermore, the optimal size for an expanded library – which may be eligible for growth-related funding would be 3,000 square feet thereby resulting in a net addition of approximately 2,500 square feet over what is currently provided. This GFA would allow the Storrington Branch to serve its rural residents for the foreseeable future.

Storrington Branch

12 The Township of South Frontenac Growth Analysis Study 2016-2041 (Final

Draft, 2020) anticipates 51% of future permanent and seasonal population growth to occur in the Township’s ‘primary’ and ‘secondary’ settlement areas which include Inverary, Battersea and Sunbury

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8.0 South Frontenac Branches Figure 26: Storrington Branch, Site Plan

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8.0 South Frontenac Branches

8.3

Sydenham

Sydenham Branch is centrally located in the settlement area, sharing a site with the South Frontenac municipal offices and associated parkland and beach. In addition to the listed GFA, the branch shares a program room with the Township. The branch functions as a civic hub and is an important destination in the community in conjunction with the other institutional uses that surround it. As such, Sydenham Branch has the strongest visitation and circulation rates of rural libraries and even rivals usage indicators of some of the urban branches. While Sydenham Branch is under a degree of pressure, the recommended addition of 6,500 square feet collectively between a new branch in Verona and an expanded Storrington Branch could alleviate some demands presently placed on Sydenham. The Sydenham settlement area is poised for continued residential growth 13 and it is plausible that younger households, including those with children, will be attracted to the Sydenham Branch; however, no expansion is recommended in Sydenham as South Frontenac’s other two branches are deemed higher priorities due to being undersized and aging facilities. 12FP

Branch Snapshot Address: Library Type: Floor Area:

4412 Wheatley Street Shared with Municipal Offices 5,920 ft2

Year Opened: Major Reno:

2011 Not Applicable

Branch Visits:

24,405 4.1 visits per ft2

Circulation:

40,166 6.8 items per ft2 P

Apart from ensuring state-of-good-repair activities, an outdoor reading garden and/or program area should be carried out to connect library users to the natural beauty of the adjacent Sydenham Lake. Exterior improvements could consist of seating, additional shade, and landscaping.

Sydenham Branch 13 The Township of South Frontenac Growth Analysis Study 2016-2041 (Final Draft,

anticipates 30% of future permanent and seasonal population growth to occur in the Township’s ‘primary settlement areas’ which include Sydenham

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8.0 South Frontenac Branches Figure 27: Sydenham Branch, Site Plan

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8.0 South Frontenac Branches

8.4

Recommendations – South Frontenac

Rec. #19 Hartington / Verona Branch: Replace the Hartington Branch with a new branch situated within the Verona settlement in order to situate library services closer to its primary base of users. The new Verona Branch should provide a total minimum Gross Floor Area of 5,000 square feet, thereby adding 4,000 square feet of net new library space within the existing catchment area. The Township of South Frontenac should be engaged to discuss whether the new library branch can form part of the ‘community focal point’ identified in its recently completed Verona Housing Master Plan. Rec. #20 Storrington Branch: Work with the Township of South Frontenac to carry out a second phase expansion to the Storrington Centre whereby the total Gross Floor Area of the Storrington Branch would be increased to 3,000 square feet, or approximately 2,500 square feet more than what is presently available. Rec. #21 Sydenham Branch: Develop an outdoor reading garden and/or program area to connect Sydenham Branch users to the natural beauty of Sydenham Lake.

Sydenham Branch

Hartington Branch

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9.0 Frontenac Islands Branches

9.0 Frontenac Islands Branches KFPL operates branches on Wolfe Island and Howe Island. Retention of KFPL’s system-wide space provision rate of 0.8 square feet per capita to Frontenac Islands would result in the existing GFA being generally sufficient in relation to 2,400 population forecasted in the Township over the next 20 years. This Section evaluates opportunities to improve the physical space provided at existing branches located in the Frontenac Islands. Please note that branch visitation and circulation statistics reflect 2019 totals (pre-COVID-19) unless otherwise noted. Map 7: Geographic Distribution of Branches, Township of Frontenac Islands

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9.0 Frontenac Islands Branches

9.1

Howe Island

Howe Island Branch is among the smallest branches in the KFPL system and generates below average rates of visitation and circulation. This is a result of the small and dispersed population across the island along with the fact that there is no direct physical connection to the mainland (access to the island is by ferry) which limits its catchment area population. Howe Island Branch’s clientele is generally more affluent, educated and older relative to regional and provincial averages which may be another reason for its low utilization indicators along with the fact that the branch is open for just 6 hours each week.

Branch Snapshot Address: Library Type: Floor Area:

50 Baseline Road Shared with Municipal Office 732 ft2

Year Opened: Major Reno:

1982 1994

Branch Visits:

1,000 1.4 visits per ft2

Circulation:

2,712 3.7 items per ft2 P

The library was built in 1982 and a small addition was completed in 1994. The library’s interior was recently upgraded through a recent project to replace its flooring as well applying a fresh coat of paint. No capital projects are recommended for this branch given its level of use as investments are better prioritized elsewhere in the library system. As the library is only open 6 hours per week, it would be a good candidate for holds lockers and/or alternative service options.

Howe Island Branch

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9.0 Frontenac Islands Branches Figure 28: Howe Island Branch, Site Plan

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9.0 Frontenac Islands Branches

9.2

Wolfe Island

Wolfe Island Branch is situated on a picturesque site whose in-person visitation is below the rural branch average but circulation is close to average; branch staff indicate that usage increases during the summer months with the influx of seasonal residents but that families often access library programs on the mainland. Despite its age (opened in 1984), Wolfe Island Branch continues offer a pleasant experience to its users with its high vaulted ceiling and an efficient floor plan that gives an impression of space. There are some barrier-free issues such as in the washrooms that would not be considered accessible but could be revisited by carrying out an accessibility audit. Branch staff report that the lack of administration and workspace areas can create challenges (the service desk is their only work area) and there are reports of issues with the water supply and heating systems that will need to be further investigated through asset management plans.

Branch Snapshot Address: Library Type: Floor Area:

10 Highway 95 Shared with Municipal Office 1,072 ft2

Year Opened: Minor Reno:

1984 2010

Branch Visits:

2,450 2.3 visits per ft2

Circulation:

8,221 7.7 items per ft2 P

The recommended focus for Wolfe Island Branch is its exterior whereby KFPL enhances the corner frontage along County Road 95 and Main Street to feature more prominently with landscape elements and seating areas. It is recommended that the Indigenous community be consulted, and their feedback reflected in the plantings and design elements. This may encourage additional visits to the library property and raise its profile to residents and visitors, while aligning with the Township’s revitalization project around the Wolfe Island Pier. As the library is only open 15 hours per week, it would be a good candidate for holds lockers and/or other alternative service options.

Wolfe Island Branch

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9.0 Frontenac Islands Branches Figure 29: Wolfe Island Branch, Site Plan

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9.0 Frontenac Islands Branches

9.3

Recommendations – Frontenac Islands

Rec. #22 Howe Island Branch: Install holds lockers outside of the Howe Island Branch. Rec. #23 Wolfe Island Branch: Enhance the Wolfe Island Branch’s outdoor presence so that the corner frontage along County Road 95 and Main Street features more prominently with landscaped elements and seating areas. Installation of holds lockers should also be pursued.

Wolfe Island Branch

Howe Island Branch

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10.0 Implementing the LFP

10.0 Implementing the LFP This Section summarizes the Recommendations arising out of the LFP and assigns timing and capital cost implications to them. A process for monitoring and reviewing the LFP is also provided.

10.1

Summary of the Space Development Strategy

The LFP recommends that for KFPL’s level of service to keep pace with population growth at a rate of 0.8 square feet per capita, a total of 20,000 square feet would be required over the next 20 years. The allocation of new GFA is equally distributed between the urban and rural branches as follows. City of Kingston – 10,000 square feet of new GFA •

Interior renovation of the Isabel Turner Branch (no net space addition);

•

a 7,000 square foot expansion to the Pittsburgh Branch; and

•

a 3,000 square foot expansion to the Calvin Park Branch.

Townships of Central Frontenac & South Frontenac – 10,300 square feet of new GFA •

a 4,000 square foot contribution of additional library space in Verona to create a new 5,000 square foot branch (to replace the Hartington Branch);

•

a 2,500 square foot expansion to the Storrington Branch; and

•

a 3,800 square foot contribution of additional library space in Sharbot Lake to create a new 5,000 square foot branch.

Rideau Heights Branch, Kingston

Sydenham Branch, South Frontenac

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10.0 Implementing the LFP

10.2 Monitoring & Reviewing the LFP Due to the 20-year planning horizon of this study, KFPL should regularly review, assess, and periodically revise the LFP’s Recommendations in order to ensure that they remain reflective of community needs within the urban and rural areas. This may require monitoring library utilization, demographics, and continuing dialogue with agency partners and community organizations. The development of annual work plans and yearend reporting should be undertaken to track achievements and lessons learned in order to determine the success of the LFP. Through these mechanisms – or as a result of internal or external factors – adjustment in resource allocations and priorities may be required. The following steps should be considered to conduct annual reviews of the LFP. •

Review of the past year (recommendations implemented, capital projects undertaken, success of new and existing initiatives, changes in usage levels, areas for improvement or adjustment, etc.).

•

Review the LFP to identify and/or confirm short-term initiatives based on staff reviews and consideration (e.g., trends, consultation, usage data, funding, partnerships, etc.).

•

Identify potential challenges for the upcoming year.

•

Communicate the status of ongoing and future projects with KFPL staff, municipal Councils, and the public.

•

Revise the capital budget opportunities, as necessary.

and

propose

external

funding

Note about Population Assumptions Population forecasts that underpin certain LFP assessments are derived from approved growth forecasts prepared by the County of Frontenac, City of Kingston and the Townships. Recent residential development trends, as well as changes in demand for housing resulting from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic may result in a different growth forecast than articulated in these reports. Furthermore, the recent 2021 Census releases predate these municipal population studies and may create a need to revisit the approved growth forecasts. Any future changes to the growth forecast for municipalities falling within KFPL’s service area should be cause to revisit certain LFP recommendations in the event that existing and projected population figures substantially differ from those used herein.

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10.0 Implementing the LFP

10.3 Capital Costs & Timing Capital Implications Due to KFPL and its partner municipalities taking a proactive approach to library facilities through historical and recent investments, the LFP results in a strategy that is fiscally aligned to population growth to meet 20-year needs (i.e. 20,000 square feet of new space over the next 20 years). This is due in part by indexing future service targets to present day service levels in order to maximize growth-related funding for eligible library projects. As presented in Table 6, KFPL can expect capital implications of $29,765,000 based on the proposed 20-year space development strategy. Please note that this amount would exclude typical asset management activities associated with lifecycle repair and renewal to ensure state-of-good-repair, nor does it include yet to be determined costs through future study (e.g. community hub projects if carried out with municipal and other partners).

$29.8 million KFPL can expect capital investments in the range of $29.8 million based on the proposed 20-year space development strategy.

The distribution of the estimated capital implications of the space development strategy by library type is as follows: • •

Urban Libraries: $18,345,000 62% of the LFP capital budget Rural Libraries: $11,420,000 38% of the LFP capital budget

The distribution of the estimated capital implications of the space development strategy by library type is as follows: • • • • •

Kingston: $18,345,000 or 62% of the LFP capital budget North Frontenac: $55,000 or 0.2% of the LFP capital budget plus additional costs if replacing Cloyne Library Central Frontenac: $4,355,000 or 14.5% of the LFP capital budget South Frontenac: $6,990,000 or 23% of the LFP capital budget Frontenac Islands: $20,000 or 0.1% of the LFP capital budget

Capital cost implications identified in the LFP are order of magnitude estimates for base construction under optimal site conditions, with soft costs such as consultant fees and furniture, fixtures and equipment allowances included. These budgets are based on 2022 dollars. Some recommendations are minor in scale and a small allowance has been provided as place holder to help define the overall budget. More detail would be required to determine true scale of the work and the specific conditions of the branch.

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10.0 Implementing the LFP

Costs associated with land acquisition, taxes, site servicing, escalation and construction contingencies are excluded from the estimates. Rates are based on a high-level survey of current projects being developed in MJMA Architecture & Design office. It also bears noting that there is significant price volatility at time of writing due to ongoing world events - including but not limited to the COVID-19 pandemic - and associated disruptions to labour and supply chains. While escalation is also excluded from cost figures stated in this report, KFPL may apply an escalation factor of 4% to 6% to the estimates for every year that is added until the proposed construction phase to account for inflation. Given the long-range planning horizon of the LFP, all pricing stated in this report must be independently verified closer to the time of implementation based on actual project conditions prior to further development of any work.

“I like that it’s quiet, at home my baby brother cries a lot and it’s nice to have a break, it’s cozy, I like to read.” ~ Rideau Heights Branch User Comment (provided by a young person)

Timing Suggested timing for Recommendations over the LFP’s 20-year implementation period shown in Table 6, are segmented as follows: • • •

Short-Term (1 to 3 years): 2023 to 2025 Medium-Term (4 to 8 years): 2026 to 2030 Long-Term (10 to 20 years): 2031 to 2041

Timing is subject to revision depending upon factors such as (but are not limited to) rate of population growth relative to forecasts used to underpin LFP assessments, input from future public consultations, grant and external funding opportunities, lifecycle conditions and asset management planning for existing branches, and financial supports provided by KFPL’s member municipalities. Capital investments based on timing identified in the LFP are as follows: • • •

Short-Term: $13,565,000 or 46% of the LFP capital budget Medium-Term: $13,180,000 or 44% of the LFP capital budget Long-Term: $3,000,000 or 10% of the LFP capital budget

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10.0 Implementing the LFP Table 6: Summary of Major LFP Capital Items

Recommendation

Suggested Timing

City of Kingston Isabel Turner Branch Renovation Rideau Heights Branch Entryway Improvements Calvin Park Branch Enhancements Pittsburgh Branch Expansion (@ 7,000 ft2 of new space) Calvin Park Branch Expansion (@ 2,800 ft2 of new space) Sub-Total: Kingston

Short-Term Short-Term Medium-Term Medium-Term Long-Term

$6,760,000 $5,000 $450,000 $8,130,000 $3,000,000 $18,345,000

Township of North Frontenac Cloyne Branch & Community Hub Design Study Plevna Branch Enhancements Cloyne Branch & Community Hub Development* Sub-Total: North Frontenac

Short-Term Short-Term Medium -Term

$50,000 $5,000 TBD $55,000

Township of Central Frontenac Arden Branch Interior & Exterior Enhancements Sharbot Lake Branch Reconstruction (@ 5,000 ft2) Parham Branch Enhancements Mountain Grove Enhancements Sub-Total: Central Frontenac

Short-Term Short-Term Medium-Term Medium-Term

$5,000 $4,340,000 $5,000 $5,000 $4,355,000

Township of South Frontenac Storrington Branch Expansion (@ 2,500 ft2) Verona Branch Construction (@ 5,000 ft2) Sydenham Branch Exterior Enhancements Sub-Total: South Frontenac

Short-Term Medium-Term Medium-Term

$2,400,000 $4,450,000 $140,000 $6,990,000

Township of Frontenac Islands Howe Island Branch Holds Lockers Wolfe Island Branch Holds Lockers & Exterior Enhancements Sub-Total: Frontenac Islands

Short-Term Short-Term

$5,000 $15,000 $20,000

Short-Term

TBD

Preliminary Capital Implications

$29,765,000

Other Branch Accessibility & Energy Audits

Estimated Cost

*should a new community facility not be constructed, KFPL should budget $50,000 for a barrier-free washroom and ventilation improvements at the existing library

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Library Facilities Plan South Frontenac

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Founding and Funding Agreement Established in 1998 with an agreement between the City of Kingston and the County of Frontenac to proportionately share operating costs.

County of Frontenac

Facility costs are not part of the above formula. Kingston Frontenac Public Library

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City of Kingston

About the Library The Public Libraries Act and its Regulations outline the powers and duties of public library boards in Ontario. The Library Board is the legal authority of the organization.

Kingston Frontenac Public Library

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The KFPL Board has eleven (11) members: • eight (8) appointed by the City of Kingston • three (3) appointed by the County of Frontenac

16 Library Branches

Serving a population of 161,780 City of Kingston

• Calvin Park • Central • Isabel Turner • Pittsburgh • Rideau Heights • 2 Library Kiosks

Frontenac County

Kingston Frontenac Public Library

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• Arden • Cloyne • Hartington • Howe Island • Mountain Grove • Parham • Plevna • Sharbot Lake • Storrington • Sydenham • Wolfe Island

South Frontenac - By the Numbers

Branches

948 km2

Service Area

20,171 Population

In-Branch Visitors

Questions Asked

44,203

27,223

5,547 Kingston Frontenac Public Library

Page 138 of 198

Items Borrowed

Vision, Mission, Values Vision

Where communities come together, sparking curiosity and creating possibility for all.

Mission

We build and support community by creating inclusive spaces, services and collections that advance literacies and invite people to innovate, learn, explore and connect. Inclusion . Respect . Creativity . Accountability . Sustainability . Intellectual Freedom . Service Excellence Kingston Frontenac Public Library

Page 139 of 198

Values

Strategic Directions  Facilitate energizing experiences rooted in inclusivity and diversity  Optimize spaces and services  Strengthen strategic partnerships and operations  Champion environmental accountability Page 140 of 198

Kingston Frontenac Public Library

2004 “Branch Services Review”

First facilities plan as an amalgamated system
Used space-planning standard of 0.5 sq. ft. per capita
South Frontenac Recommendations:
Replace Sydenham Branch (5-6,000 sq. ft.)
Build in Verona (5-6,000 sq. ft.), close Hartington Branch
Retain Storrington Branch

Page 141 of 198

Kingston Frontenac Public Library

2010 “Building Our Future”

Focussed on how to achieve the remaining 2004 recommendations, updates based on new standards, forecasts and trends
South Frontenac Recommendations:
Build in Verona and increase hours, close Hartington Branch
Retain Storrington – refurbish interior, accessibility upgrades

Page 142 of 198

Kingston Frontenac Public Library

2022 Library Facilities Plan (LFP) Step 1: Understanding Community Needs In-depth review of:

Relevant reports and plans (municipal and library)
Library trends and best practices (provincial and national)
Current building conditions and available space
Community demographics and population projections Page 143 of 198

Community and staff consultation:

Community survey and open houses
Interviews and workshops with community leaders
Staff survey and workshops Kingston Frontenac Public Library

2022 Library Facilities Plan (LFP) Step 2: Draft Plan

Presented to Library Board in June 2022
Posted on project website and promoted on social media
Community open houses at each branch where recommendations were made
Final revisions made based on additional feedback

Step 3: Approval of Final Plan Page 144 of 198

Approved by Board motion in September 2022

Kingston Frontenac Public Library

Spatial Analysis – System Wide Kingston - Strong geographic coverage, minor gap west of Days Rd

0.87 square feet per capita

North Frontenac - Sizable geographic gaps in northern and eastern areas

0.61 square feet per capita

Central Frontenac - Good east-west distribution between settlements

0.75 square feet per capita

Frontenac Islands - Satisfactory distribution

South Frontenac - Good southern and western distribution, gap in east

0.37 square feet per capita

Kingston Frontenac Public Library

Page 145 of 198

0.93 square feet per capita

2022 Spatial Analysis

Range of 0.6 – 1.0 sq. ft. per capita is now generally accepted standard, based on accessibility, usage trends, unique community needs
Locations of branches considered, walking and driving radius, catchment
Urban branches = smaller geographic area with more residents
Rural branches = larger geographic area with fewer residents
Intensity of use examined: visits and items circulated per sq. ft.
Size of branches (under 2,000 sq. ft) limits services that can be offered Page 146 of 198

Kingston Frontenac Public Library

Spatial Analysis – South Frontenac Hartington - building systems at or near end of lifecycle

barrier-free accessibility is not optimal
in-person visits are below the rural library average

Storrington - small footprint, relatively isolated, low visibility from road

mechanical systems/furniture replacement in next 10-15 years
barrier-free accessibility should be enhanced
experiencing demands/pressures due to inadequate library space in other South Frontenac settlement areas.

Kingston Frontenac Public Library

Page 147 of 198

Sydenham - centrally located in settlement, strong visitation/circulation rates

System-Wide Recommendations New Library Space by 2041 - 10,000 ft2 in the City of Kingston

10,000 ft2 in Frontenac County

Accessibility/Sustainability - Assess and improve energy efficiency and barrier-free access

Wi-Fi, high-speed internet, computer workstations, under carpet cabling, electric outlets

Wayfinding Opportunities

Improve signage along transportation corridors to enhance awareness and visibility of KFPL locations Kingston Frontenac Public Library

Page 148 of 198

Technology/Infrastructure

South Frontenac Recommendations Hartington / - Replace the existing Hartington Branch with a new, larger Verona branch situated in the Verona settlement area Storrington - Investigate a second-phase expansion to the Storrington

Centre to expand the Storrington Branch by 3,000 square feet

Sydenham - Develop an outdoor reading garden and/or program area to

Kingston Frontenac Public Library

Page 149 of 198

connect Sydenham Branch users to the natural beauty of Sydenham Lake

Kingston Frontenac Public Library

Thank you for your support.

Page 150 of 198

Page 151 of 198 Minutes of Council January, 9, 2024

Township of South Frontenac Council Meeting Minutes

Meeting # 01 Time:6:30 p.m. Location: Council Chambers / virtual via Zoom Present: Ray Leonard, Doug Morey, Steve Pegrum, Norm Roberts, Randy Ruttan (virtual), Ron Sleeth, Scott Trueman (virtual), Mayor Ron Vandewal Staff: Louise Fragnito - Chief Administrative Officer, James Thompson - Clerk, Michelle Hannah - Deputy Clerk, Kyle Bolton - Director of Public Services, Del Blakney - Director of Fire and Emergency Services, Brad Wright - Director of Development Services, Jan Minaker - Manager of Human Resources, Troy Dunlop - Manager of Engineering and Capital Projects

Call to Order

That the Council Meeting of January 9, 2024 be called to order at 6:33 p.m. Resolution No. 2024:01:01 Moved by Councillor Ruttan Seconded by Councillor Morey That the Council Meeting of January 9, 2024 be called to order at 6:33 p.m. Carried

2 a)

Declaration of pecuniary interest and the general nature thereof Mayor Vandewal declared pecuniary interest with respect to Agenda Item 11. f) as a family member is a member of South Frontenac Fire & Rescue. Councillor Morey declared a pecuniary interest with respect to Agenda Item 13. c) as family owns a trailer currently licensed by the Township of South Frontenac. Documents can be found here: https://southfrontenac.civicweb.net/filepro/documents/100575/

Approval of Agenda

That the agenda be approved. Resolution No. 2024:01:02 Moved by Councillor Trueman Seconded by Councillor Pegrum That the agenda be approved. Carried

Scheduled Closed Session

Resolution: Resolution No. 2024:01:03

Page 152 of 198 Minutes of Council January, 9, 2024 Moved by Councillor Roberts Seconded by Councillor Sleeth That Council resolve itself into the Committee of the Whole “Closed Meeting” to consider the following item: a) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board; Carried b)

Resolution: Resolution No. 2024:01:04 Moved by Councillor Ruttan Seconded by Councillor Pegrum That Council rise from the Committee of the Whole “Closed Meeting” without reporting. Carried

5 a)

6 a)

Recess Council recessed from 6:53 p.m. to 7:03 p.m. Declaration of Office - Deputy Mayor Leonard Deputy Mayor Leonard undertook the Declaration of Office. Deputy Mayor Leonard and the Deputy Clerk signed the declaration of Office.

7 a)

8 a)

9 a)

Public Meeting There was none. Delegations There were none. Briefings There were none.

Approval of Minutes

That the minutes of the December 19, 2023 Council meeting be approved. Resolution No. 2024:01:05 Moved by Councillor Trueman Seconded by Deputy Mayor Leonard That the minutes of the December 19, 2023 Council meeting be approved. Carried

Reports Requiring Action

Climate Change Action Plan Consultant Services Resolution No. 2024:01:06 Moved by Councillor Morey Seconded by Councillor Pegrum

Page 2 of 8

Page 153 of 198 Minutes of Council January, 9, 2024 That Council approve the award of the consulting services contract for the development of the Township’s Climate Change Action Plan to Strategy Corp. in the amount of $59,122.56 including non-rebatable HST and; That the required additional funding for the project be funded from the Climate Change Reserve. Carried b)

Proposed Re-Appointment of Mississippi-Rideau Source Protection Committee (SPC) Representative Resolution No. 2024:01:07 Moved by Councillor Sleeth Seconded by Councillor Trueman That the Council of the Corporation of the Township of South Frontenac recommend to the Mississippi-Rideau Source Protection Committee (SPC) that Eleanor Renaud be re-appointed as the representative of municipalities without drinking water systems for a five-year term. Carried

Appointment of Members of Council to Committee of Adjustment Councillor Roberts and Deputy Mayor Leonard nominated Councillor Pegrum as the Bedford District representative. Deputy Mayor Leonard and Councillor Sleeth nominated Councillor Morey as the Portland District representative. Councillor Morey and Councillor Roberts nominated Councillor Ruttan as the Loughborough District representative. Councillor Sleeth and Councillor Pegrum nominated Councillor Roberts as the Storrington District representative. There were no further nominations. Resolution No. 2024:01:08 Moved by Councillor Leonard Seconded by Councillor Sleeth That the following members of Council be appointed to the Committee of Adjustment for a term concluding December 31, 2024:

Bedford District Councillor Pegrum;
Portland District Councillor Morey;
Loughborough District Councillor Ruttan; and
Storrington District Councillor Roberts. Carried Resolution No. 2024:01:09 Moved by Councillor Roberts Seconded by Deputy Mayor Leonard That Council defer the appointment of a member to the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority Board until the vacant Bedford District seat has been filled. Carried

Community Safety and Policing Act – Frontenac OPP Detachment Board Appointment Resolution No. 2024:01:10 Moved by Councillor Roberts Seconded by Councillor Morey

Page 3 of 8

Page 154 of 198 Minutes of Council January, 9, 2024 That Mayor Vandewal and Councillor Pegrum be appointed as the Township of South Frontenac Council Representatives to the Frontenac OPP Detachment Board for the remainder of the term of Council; and That David Herrington, be appointed as the Township of South Frontenac, Community Representative to the Frontenac OPP Detachment Board for the term of Council; and That the Township of South Frontenac, Police Services Board be dissolved effective April 1, 2024 and that the Clerk be directed to amend the Committee By-law accordingly. Carried e)

Vacant Councillor Seat – Bedford District Resolution No. 2024:01:11 Moved by Councillor Pegrum Seconded by Councillor Trueman That Council declare the office of Councillor for Bedford District, held by Charlene Godfrey vacant; and That staff be directed to bring forward a report outlining options to fill the vacancy for consideration by Council at its meeting scheduled for Tuesday, January 16, 2024. Carried

South Frontenac Fire & Rescue Compensation Mayor Vandewal withdrew from the meeting due to a pecuniary interest. Deputy Mayor Leonard assumed the role of Chair. Resolution No. 2024:01:12 Moved by Councillor Roberts Seconded by Councillor Sleeth That Council provide approval for the South Frontenac Fire & Rescue (SFFR) compensation schedule itemized under Table 1 of the Staff Report to take effect as of January 1, 2024; and That Council approve the funding stream as itemized under Table 2 of the Staff Report. Carried

12 a)

Advisory Committee Reports or Minutes Mayor Vandewal returned to the meeting and assumed the role of Chair. There were none.

Reports Requiring Approval of By-laws

Appointment of Director of Emergency Services & Fire Chief Resolution No. 2024:01:13 Moved by Deputy Mayor Leonard Seconded by Councillor Ruttan That By-law 2024-02 being a By-law to appoint Del Blakney as Director of Emergency Services & Fire Chief insert text, be given first and second reading. Carried

Page 4 of 8

Page 155 of 198 Minutes of Council January, 9, 2024 Resolution No. 2024:01:14 Moved by Councillor Morey Seconded by Councillor Roberts That By-law 2024-02 be given third reading, signed and sealed. Carried b)

Amendment to By-law 2020-10 (A By-law to Assume Road Widening) Resolution No. 2024:01:15 Moved by Councillor Trueman Seconded by Deputy Mayor Sleeth That By-law 2024-03 being a By-law to amend By-law 2020-10, be given first and second reading. Carried Resolution No. 2024:01:16 Moved by Councillor Ruttan Seconded by Councillor Trueman That By-law 2024-03 be given third reading, signed and sealed. Carried

Proposed Trailer Regulation By-law Councillor Morey withdrew from the meeting due to a pecuniary interest. Resolution No. 2024:01:17 Moved by Councillor Morey Seconded by Councillor Ruttan That By-law 2024-01 attached as Exhibit A, being “A By-law to Regulate Trailer usage in the Township of South Frontenac” be given first and second reading. Carried Resolution No. 2024:01:18 Moved by Deputy Mayor Leonard Seconded by Councillor Roberts That By-law 2024-01 be given third reading, signed and sealed. Carried Resolution No. 2024:01:19 Moved by Councillor Trueman Seconded by Councillor Sleeth That By-law 2024-05 attached as Exhibit B, being “A By-law to Amend By-law 2022-70, As Amended, ‘A By-Law to Impose Administrative Monetary Penalties on Violations of Municipal By-Laws’”, be given first and second reading. Carried Resolution No. 2024:01:20 Moved by Councillor Pegrum Seconded by Councillor Ruttan That By-law 2024-05 be given third reading, signed and sealed. Carried

Appointment of Drainage Superintendent under the Drainage Act Councillor Morey returned to the meeting.

Page 5 of 8

Page 156 of 198 Minutes of Council January, 9, 2024 Resolution No. 2024:01:21 Moved by Councillor Sleeth Seconded by Councillor Morey That By-law 2024-04 being a By-law to appoint Robinson Consultants Inc. as Drainage Superintendent under the Drainage Act, be given first and second reading. Carried Resolution No. 2024:01:22 Moved by Councillor Roberts Seconded by Councillor Ruttan That By-law 2024-04 be given third reading, signed, and sealed. Carried 14

Reports for Information

2023 Purchase and Sale of Land  The report provided a summary of properties sold and purchased from authorization to negotiate received by Council during various Committee of the Whole “Closed Meetings”.

Study Update – Preliminary Design Services for Reconstruction of Road 38 (Murton Road to Kingston Road)  The report provided an update on the status of the preliminary design study for the reconstruction of Road 38 including activities completed to date by Safe Roads Engineering Inc.

Committee of the Whole

16 a)

17 a)

There was none. Information Items There were none. Notice of Motions Councillor Sleeth served a notice of motion to ask staff to write a letter to the Ministry to clarify the zoning related to 4797 Latimer Road.

Rise and Report regarding County Council and External Boards

County Council Deputy Mayor Leonard advised that Mayor Frances Smith has been appointed Warden and Mayor Vandewal was appointed Deputy Warden or the year 2024. Deputy Mayor Leonard also noted that Council voted to keep the K&P Trail closed to ATV use South of Bellrock Road.

Police Services Board Councill Pegrum advised that he and staff will be meeting with the New Staff Sargent on February 17, 2024.

Cataraqui Conservation

Quinte Conservation

Page 6 of 8

Page 157 of 198 Minutes of Council January, 9, 2024 Councillor Roberts noted that the budget for 2024 was approved at the last meeting. e)

Rideau Valley Conservation Authority

Frontenac Community Arena Board

Announcements/Statements by Councillors

There were none.

Closed Session (if requested)

Resolution: Resolution No. 2024:01:23 Moved by Councillor Pegrum Seconded by Councillor Sleeth That Council resolve itself into the Committee of the Whole “Closed Meeting” to consider the following items: a) Approval of the December 19, 2023 Committee of the Whole “Closed Meeting” minutes. b) personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees - Development Services.

Resolution: Resolution No. 2024:01:24 Moved by Deputy Mayor Leonard Seconded by Councillor Trueman That Council rise from the Committee of the Whole “Closed Meeting” without reporting. Carried

Confirmatory By-law

Resolution Resolution No. 2024:01:25 Moved by Councillor Roberts Seconded by Councillor Ruttan That By-Law 2024-06, being a By-law to confirm generally all actions and proceedings of the Council of the Township of South Frontenac, be given first and second reading. Carried Resolution No. 2024:01:26 Moved by Councillor Pegrum Seconded by Councillor Trueman That By-Law 2024-06 be given third reading, signed and sealed. Carried

Adjournment

Resolution Resolution No. 2024:01:27

Page 7 of 8

Page 158 of 198 Minutes of Council January, 9, 2024 Moved by Councillor Morey Seconded by Councillor Roberts That the Council meeting of January 9, 2024 be adjourned at 7:42 p.m. Carried

Ron Vandewal, Mayor

James Thompson, Clerk

Page 8 of 8

Page 159 of 198

To:

Council

From:

Office of the Clerk

Date of Meeting:

January 16, 2024

Subject:

Options to fill vacancy for office of Councillor – Bedford District

Report Number:

2024-014

Summary At the January 9, 2024 Council meeting, the office of Councillor for Bedford District, held by Charlene Godfrey was declared vacant in accordance with Section 262 of the Municipal Act. The purpose of the Report is to provide Council with the background information to be considered by Council in order to make a decision regarding the procedural option to be utilized to fill the vacancy. Recommendation That Council fill the vacancy for office of Councillor for Bedford District in accordance with one of the following options: Option 1: That Council fill the vacancy by appointing the Councillor candidate from the 2022 Municipal Election who received the third highest number of votes. or Option 2: That Council approve the appointment process outlined in Exhibit A of Report Number 2024014; and That the process be utilized to administer an appointment process based on a general call for applicants to be considered by Council to fill the vacancy. or Option 3: That Council fill the vacancy by requiring a by-election to be held; and That Council approve an amount up to $75,000 from the Election Reserve to support the cost of a by-election.

www.southfrontenac.net South Frontenac is a welcoming and thriving rural community.

Township of South Frontenac Staff Report Number – 2024-014

Page 160 of 198

Background At the Township of South Frontenac meeting of Council held on January 9, 2024, the following resolution was approved: “Moved by Councillor Pegrum Seconded by Councillor Trueman That Council declare the office of Councillor for Bedford District, held by Charlene Godfrey vacant; and That staff be directed to bring forward a report outlining options to fill the vacancy for consideration by Council at its meeting scheduled for Tuesday, January 16, 2024. Carried” Discussion/Analysis The Municipal Act, 2021 indicates that once Council has declared a seat vacant on Council they are required to determine the method in which the vacant seat will be filled – either by appointment or by-election. Similar to any Municipal Election, procedures including notices, information about the vacancy, coordination of applications, procedure for hearing deputations and voting would be established by the Township Clerk for each option noted below. As per the Municipal Elections Act, to be qualified to hold office, a person must meet the following qualifications: • be 18 years of age or older; • a Canadian citizen; • a resident of the Township of South Frontenac, or an owner or tenant of land in the Township or the spouse of such an owner or tenant; and • not be prohibited from voting under any other Act or disqualified from holding municipal office. Outlined below are three options, presented in no preferred order, available to Council to fill the vacancy. Council may fill the vacancy by appointing a qualified person from the 2022 Municipal Election from the ward where the vacancy exists or by a general call for applicants to hold municipal office in the Township of South Frontenac. If Council chooses to appoint, Section 263(5) of the Municipal Act, 2001 requires Council to make a decision to fill the vacancy and to have the vacancy filled within sixty days after Council has declared the seat vacant (March 8, 2024). Council may also choose to fill the vacancy by holding a by-election.

www.southfrontenac.net South Frontenac is a welcoming and thriving rural community.

Township of South Frontenac Staff Report Number – 2024-014

Page 161 of 198

Option 1 – Appointment from 2022 Municipal Election Candidates

One option to fill the vacancy is by appointing the Councillor candidate from the 2022 Municipal Election who received the third highest number of votes. Below are the results from the 2022 Municipal Election for the office of Councillor for Bedford District: Race: Ward 1 (Bedford) Councillors Steve PEGRUM 622 (Current Member of Council) Charlene GODFREY 497 (Former Member of Council - Resigned) Adam TURCOTTE 371 (Third Highest Number of Votes) Nathan HANNAH 202 Section 263(1)(a) of the Municipal Act requires that an eligible candidate consent to accept the office if appointed. If Council chooses to fill the vacancy by this appointment method, the following are the estimated timelines and related matters that would be carried out: January 16, 2024

Council Meeting

Council selects Option 1 – Appointment from 2022 Municipal Election candidates as the method of filling vacancy

January 17, 2024

Township Clerk

a) Contact appointee to determine interest in Council appointment b) Complete the necessary forms and paperwork

February 6, 2024

Council Meeting

New Councillor takes Oath of Office

February 7, 2024

Township Clerk

Orientation for new Councillor (ongoing as necessary)

This option respects the democratic process from the 2022 Municipal Election, where the candidate that received the third highest number of votes, is offered the opportunity to sit on Council. The estimated cost of this option is minimal as it only includes training costs. Option 2- Call for Applications

Council may approve an appointment process that permits any interested and qualified person to submit an application for appointment to Council in accordance with the Council Vacancy Appointment Procedure outlined in Exhibit A. An open call for applications from www.southfrontenac.net South Frontenac is a welcoming and thriving rural community.

Township of South Frontenac Staff Report Number – 2024-014

Page 162 of 198

qualified candidates would be placed in the Frontenac News and on the Township’s website for ten (10) business days. During this time, interested and qualified candidates would be required to file applications with the Township Clerk. In order to ensure that the process is open and transparent when Council is exercising its obligation to appoint a person to an otherwise elected office, at least one public meeting to allow deputations from the candidates should be held. If Council chooses to fill the vacancy by this appointment method, the following are the estimated timelines and related matters that would be carried out: February 2, 2024

Township Clerk

February 7, 2024 and

Notice in Frontenac News Notice for interested candidates to submit an application for appointment to Council

February 14, 2024 February 7, 2024 to February 21, 2024 March 5, 2024

Procedures, applications, etc. are established by the Township Clerk

Notice on Township Website

Notice for interested candidates to submit an application for appointment to Council (10 business days)

Special Meeting of Council

Public meeting to allow deputations from the candidates Council appoints a new Councillor

March 12, 2024

Council Meeting

New Councillor takes Oath of Office

March 13, 2024

Township Clerk

Orientation for new Councillor (ongoing as necessary)

This option allows Council to select a new member and is used across other municipalities for filling vacancies. The estimated cost of this option is $3,000 for advertising, meeting expenses, and the cost for training material. Option 3 – By-Election Council could also choose to approve a by-law requiring that a by-election be held to fill the vacancy. The by-law election would be carried out under the regulations of the Municipal Elections Act. The Municipal Elections Act requires that by-elections to be conducted in the same manner as the regular Municipal Election. The estimated cost of running a by-election is approximately $45,000 to $75,000 which is based on the equipment, staffing, and other costs associated with conducting the by-election in the same manner as the 2022 Municipal Election. Should Council decide to fill the vacancy by by-election, Section 65(4) of the Municipal Elections Act, 1996 requires the Clerk to establish Nomination Day not more than sixty (60) www.southfrontenac.net South Frontenac is a welcoming and thriving rural community.

Township of South Frontenac Staff Report Number – 2024-014

Page 163 of 198

days from the day Council passes a by-law to hold a by-election, and Voting Day shall be forty-five (45) days after Nomination Day. If Council chooses to fill the vacancy via by-election, staff will provide Council with a subsequent report which provides a detailed timelines and costs following consultation with involved stakeholders and vendors. Historical Context It is worthy to note that Township of South Frontenac Council has previously been required to fill a vacancy on three occasions between 2013 and 2021. Pat Barr (2013) and Brad Barbeau (2017) were appointed to Council as they both received the third highest number of votes during their respective election. Conversely, in 2021, Council opted to appoint John McDougall (from a pool of applicants) to serve as a member of Council for the remaining approximate ten months of the term of Council. (Councillor Naish also resigned from Council on September 29, 2014, however, the Township was not required to fill the vacancy as the municipal election was scheduled for October 27, 2014.) Financial Implications To be determined. Relationship to Strategic Plan ☒ Not applicable to this report. ☐ This initiative adheres to the following strategic pillars and directions of the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan. • •

Pillar: Choose an item. Action Item (If Applicable): Insert Text

www.southfrontenac.net South Frontenac is a welcoming and thriving rural community.

Township of South Frontenac Staff Report Number – 2024-014

Approvals Submitted By:

James Thompson, Clerk Approved By:

Louise Fragnito, Chief Administrative Officer

www.southfrontenac.net South Frontenac is a welcoming and thriving rural community.

Page 164 of 198

Page 165 of 198 Township of South Frontenac Report Number 2024-014 Page 1 of 3 Exhibit A Council Vacancy Appointment Procedure General 1. Any individual filling the vacancy must be an Eligible Elector. 2.

Any employee of the Township who seeks appointment to Council must be an Eligible Elector. The employee is required to give Council written notice, prior to submitting any documentation required by the procedure, of his or her intention to take unpaid leave, in accordance with the Municipal Elections Act. If the employee is appointed to office, he or she will be deemed to have resigned from their position with the Township immediately before making the declaration of office.

Appointment Procedure Notice 1. The Township will post a Council Vacancy notice on the Township website for ten (10) business day and in the local newspaper for two (2) publications. The notice will outline the application process. Application 2. Any individual wishing to be considered for appointment to fill the Council vacancy will complete and sign the Council Vacancy Application Form and a Council Vacancy Declaration of Qualifications form approved by the Township Clerk, and will submit the forms to the Township Clerk in-person by the date and time established by the Township Clerk. 3.

Any individual wishing to be considered for appointment to fill the Council vacancy will be required to provide identification to prove his or her identity and qualifying address to the satisfaction of the Township Clerk.

Candidates may submit a personal statement of qualification with their application, for consideration of Council. Personal statements will be typewritten in a 12 point (or greater) font on letter size (8 ½” x 11”) paper, shall not exceed one (1) page in length, and will include the Candidate’s name and address. Statements that do not meet these requirements shall not be included in any Council meeting agenda, or provided to Council by the Township Clerk.

It is the Candidate’s sole responsibility to meet any deadline or otherwise comply with any requirement of this procedure.

The Township Clerk will create a list of all eligible Candidates that have complied with the application process.

Page 166 of 198 Township of South Frontenac Report Number 2024-014 Page 2 of 3 Council Meeting 7. A vote to fill a vacancy on Council by appointment will occur at an open Council meeting. The meeting may be a regular Council meeting or a special Council meeting called for that purpose. 8.

Notwithstanding the requirements of the Procedural By-law, if the meeting is a regular Council meeting, the agenda for the meeting shall be set by the Township Clerk to allow for the orderly proceedings of selecting a Candidate, while respecting the standard agenda of a regular Council meeting.

Notwithstanding the requirements of the Procedural By-law, if the meeting is a special Council meeting, the agenda for the meeting shall be set by the Township Clerk to allow for the orderly proceedings of selecting a Candidate.

At the meeting, the following will take place: a) The Chair will make a short statement of the purpose of the meeting and the general order of proceedings to be followed. b) The Township Clerk will provide the Chair with a list of the names of qualified applicants and the Chair will call for a motion from Council in the following form: “That the following individuals, who have signified in writing that they are legally qualified to hold office and consented to accept the office if they are appointed to fill the Council vacancy, be considered for appointment to fill such vacancy.” c) Each of the Candidates will be afforded the opportunity to address Council for a period of not more than five (5) minutes. The order of speaking will be determined by Lot. The Township Clerk will place the names of all Candidates in a container and randomly draw the names. d) Each Member of Council will be permitted two (2) questions to each Candidate. Questions should be as concise as possible. Candidates will be permitted no more than one (1) minute to answer each question, and answers should also be as concise as possible. e) Upon hearing all the submissions of the Candidates, Council will proceed to vote as follows: i. Members of Council will vote by way of public vote as required by the Municipal Act,

ii. Candidate names will be displayed on the monitors in alphabetical order, in the Council Chambers by the Township Clerk. iii. Members of Council will vote for one Candidate only.

Page 167 of 198 Township of South Frontenac Report Number 2024-014 Page 3 of 3 iv. The Township Clerk will provide each Member of Council with a voting card, with the Member’s name pre-printed on the voting card. v. The Township Clerk will ask the Members of Council to cast his or her vote by writing the full name of one (1) Candidate on the voting card. The Member of Council shall then sign the voting card. vi. The Township Clerk will collect all marked and signed voting cards, and then read aloud the name of the Member of Council and his or her vote. A Member of Council may not change his or her vote (in that round of voting) after the Township Clerk has collected the marked and signed voting cards. The Township Clerk will tabulate the results. vii. If the Candidate receiving the greatest number of votes cast does not receive more than one-half the votes of all voting members of Council, the Candidate or Candidates who received the fewest number of votes will be excluded from further consideration. The vote will be taken again by the Township Clerk and, if necessary, more than once, excluding in each successive vote the Candidate or Candidates who receive the fewest number of votes. will be repeated until the Candidate receiving the greatest number of votes has also received more than one-half of the votes of the voting members of Council. f)

Upon conclusion of the voting, the Township Clerk will note the Candidate receiving the votes of more than one-half of the number of the voting members of Council.

g) The appointment of the Candidate will be made by by-law at a subsequent meeting. A bylaw confirming the appointment will be enacted by Council. h) The Township Clerk will administer the Declaration of Office required by subsection 232(1) of the Municipal Act, 2001, at the meeting where the by-law referred to in subsection 9(g) of these procedures is enacted by Council, or as directed by Council. 11. Where a situation occurs that is not otherwise accounted for in these procedures, the Township Clerk shall recommend an alternate process to Council, which Council may adopt with a simple majority vote.

Page 168 of 198

To:

Council

From:

Director, Public Services

Date of Meeting:

January 16, 2024

Subject:

Award of Tender # PS-2023-20 Opinicon Culvert Replacement

Report Number:

2024-013

Summary This report provides a recommendation for the award of contract for the Opinicon Culvert Replacement (Capital Project 22-19). Recommendation That Council accept the bid from Marathon Underground Constructors Corporation in the amount of $805,757.05 (net of HST credits) for Tender # PS- 2023-20 Opinicon Road Culvert Replacement; and That Council authorize a project budget increase in the amount of $102,800 which will be fully funded from cost savings on the recently completed Wilmer Road culvert replacement Capital Project 23-44 ($105,000 – Community Building Fund). Background In March of last year, Council approved its 2023 Operating and Capital budgets which included the replacement of the Opinicon Road culvert located 1.6km east of the intersection of Perth Road in Raymonds Corners. The scope of work includes the replacement of a 1200mm x 39m long culvert at a creek crossing using a pipe ramming (trenchless) method through a 7.2m (23.6 feet) deep embankment. The newly installed pipe casing would carry a 75-year design life. The detailed design work for the Opinicon Road culvert replacement was completed by H P Engineering from Ottawa. The design assignment included field surveys, geotechnical investigations, environmental screening (fish and species at risk), and a hydraulic analysis of the creek crossing. The creek at the crossing drains in a northerly direction and is fed by a large watershed approximately 6.96 square kilometers in size. One of the most unique design challenges of the project is the depth of the pipe structure which is 7.2m (23.6 feet) below the road surface. During the design phase HP Engineering looked at several options for pipe replacement. Conventional open cut methods were assessed along with other trenchless approaches to www.southfrontenac.net South Frontenac is a welcoming and thriving rural community.

Township of South Frontenac Staff Report Number – 2024-013

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arrive at the preferred solution. In the end, open cut solutions were abandoned due the following considerations: Road closures to support open cut pipe replacements would trigger a 62 km detour which would have unacceptable impacts on response times for emergency services. Extended closures would also heavily impact school transportation providers, local business and residents; • Maintenance of a single lane of traffic, while feasible, would be extremely costly due to the need for portable signals and significant efforts to lower the road to create a safe detour lane paired with safe trenching depths; • Significant volumes of excess soils would be generated that would need to be hauled off-site. In addition, significant volumes of new road materials would have to be brought in triggering significant hauling activities and associated GHG emissions; and • The removal of a good road surface, guide rail systems, and road base materials would also result in extensive throwaway costs estimated to be in the order of $200k to $300k. Pipe ramming was determined to be the best solution for pipe replacement in this location. The new steel pipe casing that will be installed by the contractor will meet all hydraulic requirements and will also carry a minimum 75-year design life. •

Discussion/Analysis On November 8, 2023, the Township issued tender PS-2023-20 for the Opinicon Culvert Replacement project and advertised on the Township’s website and Biddingo. On December 6th, 2023, the bid period for the tender closed with a total of five (5) tender submissions received. The results of the remaining qualifying tender bids were as follows:

Supplier Dig N Dirt Ltd.

Total (Inc. Non-Refundable HST) $1,611,144.84

Fidelity Engineering and Construction Ltd.

$1,500,487.83

H. R. Doornekamp Construction Ltd.

$846,883.86

K. Mulrooney Trucking Ltd.

$838,472.91

Marathon Underground Constructors Corp.

$805,757.05

All the tender submissions were reviewed for accuracy and found to be compliant with the Township’s procurement bylaw. H P Engineering and staff have both completed a detailed review of the low bid from Marathon Underground Constructors Corporation and have found the submission to be compliant. Marathon is an experienced trenchless contractor and has the necessary experience and resources to complete the work. www.southfrontenac.net South Frontenac is a welcoming and thriving rural community.

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It is therefore recommended that the low bid from Marathon Underground Constructors Corporation be accepted, and that the Township proceed with the award of contract. Financial Implications The 2023 carry forward budget for the construction phase of capital project 22-19 is $739,661. In order to advance the project, the Township will require an additional $102,796 in funding. Staff have investigated the 2023 budget for off-setting savings and have confirmed that recent savings of $105,000 from capital project 23-44 Willmer Road culvert replacement will fully cover these costs. A breakout of the revised project budget is provided below: ACTIVITY

COST ($)

Marathon Drilling Ltd. (low bid Net HST)

$805,757.05

Contract Administration / Quality Assurance / As-built Drawings

$16,700.00

Subtotal

$822,457.05

Contingency Allowance - (2.5% of Construction Only)

$20,000.00

Revised Project Cost (Inc. Non-Refundable HST)

$842,457.05

2023 Budget Carry Forward Balance – Opinicon Culvert (22-19)

$739,661.00

Estimated Shortfall (13.8%)

$102,796.05

Required Funding

$842,457.05

Offsetting Savings – Completed Wilmer Culvert Contract (23-44)

$105,000.00

Relationship to Strategic Plan ☒ Not applicable to this report. ☐ This initiative adheres to the following strategic pillars and directions of the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan. • •

Pillar: Choose an item. Action Item (If Applicable): Insert Text

Climate Considerations ☐ Not applicable to this report. www.southfrontenac.net South Frontenac is a welcoming and thriving rural community.

Township of South Frontenac Staff Report Number – 2024-013

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☒ This initiative supports climate change mitigation/adaption efforts in South Frontenac; and/or impacts the Township’s resilience to climate change. Notice/Consultation HP Engineering Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority Acting Director of Corporate Services & Treasurer Fire Chief Construction Technologist Attachments None Approvals Prepared By: W. Troy Dunlop, C.E.T., Manager of Engineering and Capital Projects Submitted By:

Kyle Bolton, C.E.T., Director of Public Services Approved By:

Louise Fragnito, Chief Administrative Officer

www.southfrontenac.net South Frontenac is a welcoming and thriving rural community.

Page 172 of 198

To:

Council

From:

Director, Public Services

Date of Meeting:

January 16, 2024

Subject:

Electric Vehicle Charger Grant Applications

Report Number:

2023-015

Summary The Public Services Department is seeking Council’s authorization to apply for Provincial and Federal grants to install electric vehicle chargers in the Township. The grant application requires a commitment of funds for the owner’s portion of the cost. Recommendation That Council support ChargeON and ZEVIP grant applications for the installation of electric vehicle chargers; That authorization be given to the Mayor and the Clerk to sign a transfer payment agreement for the funding of any grant applications that are successful; and That Council authorize a budget of $110,000 for this project to be funded from the Climate Action Reserve. Background The Government of Ontario Electric Vehicle (EV) ChargeON program provides funding for the installation of public EV chargers in communities outside of major cities. The program aims to increase the number of EV chargers across the Provance to build a more connected network and make public chargers more accessible to encourage more people to switch to EVs. The program is eligible to municipal governments in a community with a population less than 170,000 and must be accessible to the public 24/7. The municipality can apply to install EVs at multiple locations but each site will be classified as it’s own project and require a separate application. The funding available for each project is up to 75% of the total project cost with a maximum dollar amount based of the size of the EV charger. The ChargeON grant can be combined with other government funding up to 90% of the project costs. The Government of Canada Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program (ZEVIP) provides funding towards the deployment of EV chargers across Canada. The funding available for each project is up to 50% of the total project costs. The program reopens for www.southfrontenac.net South Frontenac is a welcoming and thriving rural community.

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applications in Spring 2024 and if successful could be stacked with the ChargeON grant to cover up to 90% of the total costs. Discussion/Analysis An assessment of the Townships Parks and Facilities was conducted to determine viable options for public EV charger installations based on location, use, and hydro infrastructure. The following sites are being proposed based on proximity to arterial roads for commuters, use of facilities by the public, and have three phase hydro available to service the chargers: • • •

Centennial Park parking lot Townhall & Library parking lot Storrington Centre parking lot

The ChargeON program has requirements for the amount and types of charges necessary for each project. Based on the assessment of the sites the Public Services Department is recommending the installation of two 100kW Class 3 chargers at each site which will allow facility users, tourists, and commuters the ability to change quickly and future proof the sites for advancement in EVs. The budget summary below shows the Townships contribution per site if the grant applications are approved: Project Site Centennial Park Town Hall Storrington Centre

Estimated Project Cost $400,000 $350,000 $350,000

ChargeON Funding $225,000 $225,000 $225,000

ZEVIP Funding $135,000 $ 90,000 $ 90,000

Township Contribution $40,000 $35,000 $35,000

Financial Implications The commitment of $110,000 for these projects will be funded from the Climate Change Reserve. Upon confirmation of the grant applications, projects scheduled to be installed next year will be in the 2025 capital budget. Relationship to Strategic Plan ☐ Not applicable to this report. ☒ This initiative adheres to the following strategic pillars and directions of the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan. • •

Pillar: Sustainable Long-Term Prosperity Action Item (If Applicable): Environmental Stewardship

Climate Considerations ☐ Not applicable to this report. www.southfrontenac.net South Frontenac is a welcoming and thriving rural community.

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Kyle Bolton, Director of Public Services Approved By:

Louise Fragnito, Chief Administrative Officer

www.southfrontenac.net South Frontenac is a welcoming and thriving rural community.

Page 175 of 198

To:

Council

From:

Corporate Services Department

Date of Meeting:

January 16, 2024

Subject:

2024 Interim Tax Levy

Report Number:

2024-010

Summary This report and the attached by-law provide the Township the ability to levy interim property tax amounts to properties within the Township and provides for penalties to be charged on outstanding arrears. Recommendation That By-law 2024-07 being a By-law to establish interim property taxes for 2024, be given first and second reading; and That By-law 2024-07 be given third reading, signed and sealed. Background Under Section 290 of the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, the Council of a local municipality, before having adopted its final tax rate for the year, can pass a by-law to levy interim amounts on the assessment of properties in the local municipality. Discussion/Analysis The attached by-law provides for the interim billing of 35% of the prior year’s tax levy with a due date of Friday, March 29, 2024. Further, the by-law provides for penalties to be charged the 1st of each month on outstanding arrears at a rate of 1.25%. These amounts are consistent with the provisions of the Municipal Act and are the same rates as in previous years. Financial Implications Approval of the interim tax bylaw is required for the Township to levy 35% of the prior year’s tax levy. The final billing in June will incorporate the 2024 tax rate driven from the finalized 2024 budget.

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Relationship to Strategic Plan ☒ Not applicable to this report. ☐ This initiative adheres to the following strategic pillars and directions of the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan. • •

Pillars: Choose an item. Action Item (If Applicable): Insert Text

Stephanie Kuca, Deputy Treasurer Approved By:

Louise Fragnito, Chief Administrative Officer

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Page 177 of 198 Township of South Frontenac By-Law Number 2024-07 Page 1 of 3 By-Law Number 2024-07 A By-Law to provide for an Interim Tax Levy; Payment of taxes; To provide for penalty and interest of 1.25% on tax arrears per month Whereas Section 317(1) and (2) of the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c.25, as amended, provides that: 1.

The Council of a local municipality, before the adoption of the estimates for the year under section 290 of the Municipal Act, 2001, may pass a by-law levying amounts on the assessment of the property in the local municipality rateable for local municipality purposes.

A by-law for levying amounts under subsection (1) shall be passed in the year that the amounts are to be levied or may be passed in November or December of the previous year if it provides that it does not come into force until a specified day in the following year.

Whereas sub-section 317(3) of the Municipal Act, 2001, contains the following additional rules: 1.

The amounts levied on a property shall not exceed the prescribed percentage, or 50 percent if no percentage is prescribed, of the total amount of taxes for municipal and school purposes levied on the property for the previous year.

The percentage under paragraph 1 may be different for different property classes but shall be the same for all properties in a property class.

For the purposes of calculating the total amount of taxes for the previous year under paragraph 1, if any taxes for municipal and school purposes were levied on a property for only part of the previous year because assessment was added to the collector’s roll during the year, an amount shall be added equal to the additional taxes that would have been levied on the property if the taxes for municipal and school purposes had been levied for the entire year.

Whereas sub-section 317(5) of the Municipal Act, 2001, contains the following additional rule: 1.

The amounts may be levied on assessment added to the tax roll for the current year that was not on the assessment roll upon which the amounts are levied.

Whereas Section 342 (1)(a) of the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c.25, as amended, provides that the Council of a local municipality may pass by-laws providing for the payment of taxes in one amount or by installments and the date or dates in the year for which the taxes are imposed on which the taxes or installments are due. Whereas Section 345(1) of the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c.25, as amended, provides that the Council of a local municipality may pass by-laws to impose late payment charges for the non-payment of taxes or any installment by the due date. Whereas sub-sections 345(2) and (3) of the Municipal Act, 2001, contains the following additional rules: 1.

A percentage charge, not to exceed 1 ¼ per cent of the amount of taxes due and unpaid, may be imposed as a penalty for the non-payment of taxes on the first day of default or such later date as the by-law specifies.

Page 178 of 198 Township of South Frontenac By-Law Number 2024-07 Page 2 of 3 2.

Interest charges, not to exceed 1 ¼ per cent each month of the amount of taxes due and unpaid, may be imposed for the non-payment of taxes in the manner specified in the by-law but interest may not start to accrue before the first day of default.

Whereas Section 346(2) of the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c.25, as amended, provides that the Council of a local municipality may pass by-laws to provide for the payment of taxes by any person into a financial institution to the credit of the treasurer of the municipality and, in that case, the person making the payment shall be entitled to be issued a receipt by the institution for the amount paid. Whereas Council deems it expedient to pass a by-law for such purposes; and Therefore be it resolved that the Council of the Corporation of the Township of South Frontenac hereby enacts as follows: 1.

For all property classes, that an interim tax levy hereby be imposed and levied in the amount of 35% of the total annualized taxes for municipal and school purposes levied on the property in the previous year.

For the purposes of calculating the total amount of taxes for the prior year under paragraph 1, the following rules shall also apply: a. Taxes for municipal and school purposes levied on a property for only part of the previous year because assessment was added to the collector’s roll during the year, shall have an amount added equal to the additional taxes that would have been levied on the property if the taxes for municipal and school purposes had been levied for the entire year. b. In the event that assessment has been added to the tax roll for the current year that was not on the assessment roll in the prior year, the related properties shall have an interim levy imposed and collected.

The said interim tax levy shall become due and payable on the 29th day of March 2024.

On all taxes of the interim tax levy which are in default on the first day of default, a penalty of 1.25% shall be added and thereafter a penalty of 1.25% per month (15% per annum) shall be added on the first day of each and every month in which the default continues.

On all other taxes in default on January 1st, 2024, interest shall be added at the rate of 1.25% per month (15% per annum) or fraction thereof.

Penalties and interest on all taxes of the interim tax levy in default shall become due and payable and shall be collected forthwith as if the same had originally been imposed and formed part of such unpaid interim tax levy.

The collector shall send a tax bill to the taxpayer’s residence or place of business or to the premises in respect of which the taxes are payable unless the taxpayer directs the treasurer in writing to send the bill to another address, in which case it shall be sent to that address.

Page 179 of 198 Township of South Frontenac By-Law Number 2024-07 Page 3 of 3 8.

The taxes are payable at the following: a)

Township of South Frontenac municipal offices located at: 4432 George Street, Sydenham, Ontario

At any financial institution or payment processor having payment arrangements with the Township of South Frontenac.

By filing an application for voluntary pre-authorized payment for automatic debit of installment from bank account, in accordance with the Township’s standard practice.

d) By credit card through a third party processor. The link is available on the Township website www.southfrontenac.net and can be found under living here/property taxes/how to pay e)

By payment through Virtual Municipal office. https://vmo.southfrontenac.net:1080/vch/

The site can be accessed through

The Treasurer is hereby empowered to accept partial payments from time to time on account of taxes due and shall credit such payment first on account of the interest and percentage charges, if any, added to such taxes and shall credit the remainder of such payment against that part of the taxes that has been in arrears for the greatest period of time but no such payment shall be received after a tax arrears certificate has been registered under section 378 of the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c.25, as amended.

This by-law shall come into force and take effect on the day of passing.

Given First and Second Readings: Tuesday, January 16, 2024 Given Third Reading and Passed: Tuesday, January 16, 2024

James Thompson, Clerk

Ron Vandewal, Mayor

Page 180 of 198

To:

Council

From:

Senior Planner

Date of Meeting:

January 16, 2024

Subject:

Zoning By-law Amendment Application PL-ZBA-2023-0133, Broome and Malloy, 4839 Noble Lane

Report Number:

2024-011

Summary This report recommends that Council pass a by-law to change the Limited Service Residential – Waterfront (RLSW) on the subject property to the Limited Service Residential – Waterfront Special Provision zone (RLSW-138) to add a chicken coop and the keeping of a maximum of five chickens as a permitted accessory use. Recommendation That By-law 2024-08 being a By-law to amend the zoning on lands known at 4839 Noble Lane, Part of Lot 7, Concession 9, District of Storrington, Township of South Frontenac, be given first and second reading; and That By-law 2024-08 be given third reading, signed and sealed. Background The purpose of the application is to specifically list a chicken coop and the keeping of a maximum of five chickens as a permitted accessory use in the RLSW zone on the subject property. The property is not subject to any other applications under the Planning Act. The subject property is located within the Battersea Settlement Area. The subject property is approximately 2.5 acres in area with 24 metres (80 feet) of frontage on Noble Lane and 114 metres (375 feet) of frontage on Loughborough Lake. The lands are being renaturalized. The property contains a house, two detached garages and a chicken coop with a run. The chicken coop is located between a garage and the lane, approximately 36.5 metres (120 feet) from the lane, 70 metres (230 feet) from the shoreline, and 15 metres (50 feet) from the nearest side lot line. Five chickens are being kept on the property. According to the owner, the manure is composted with leaves near the coop. Department and Agency Comments

This application did not require circulation to Township departments due to the property’s location on a private lane and the nature of the request. Cataraqui Conservation did not www.southfrontenac.net South Frontenac is a welcoming and thriving rural community.

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require circulation due to the proposed location of the chicken coop on the property, more than 30 metres from Loughborough Lake. Public Comments

Written comments were received from several individuals who own property and live on Noble Lane or in the immediate area. These individuals are supportive of the applicant’s desire to continue to raise chickens on the subject property. They noted that Noble Lane runs over a farm property where several different types of livestock are raised, that keeping a few chickens in the backyard is in line with the rural character of the Township, that the chickens are kept in an enclosed area, and that they are more like pets than livestock. One individual spoke at the public meeting. This individual raised concerns about keeping chickens on waterfront properties because their manure is toxic, they attract predators, and they can transmit avian influenza. Discussion/Analysis The proposed zoning by-law amendment was assessed against the applicable policies of the Provincial Policy Statement 2020, County of Frontenac Official Plan, and Township of South Frontenac Official Plan, as well as the provisions of Zoning By-law No. 2003-75. The Provincial Policy Statement 2020 (PPS) provides policy direction on matters of provincial interest related to land use planning and development. Rural areas are a system of lands that may include rural settlement areas, rural lands, prime agricultural areas, natural heritage features and areas, and other resource areas. The PPS provides direction on agricultural uses in prime agricultural areas and rural lands. The PPS does not include policies on backyard chickens. However, section 2.2 does restrict development near sensitive surface water features, and may require mitigative measures, in order to protect, improve or restore sensitive surface water features, sensitive ground water features, and their hydrologic functions. This policy is applicable to the proposed zoning by-law amendment. The County Official Plan establishes a framework for guiding land use changes by protecting and managing the natural environment, as well as directing and influencing growth patterns. It requires the Township to identify prime agricultural areas and to permit agricultural uses in these areas. It also has a focus on the natural heritage system of the County. The Township Official Plan allows agricultural uses in the Agricultural and Rural designations. The Official Plan identifies lands within 90 metres of the highwater mark of all lakes and rivers as environmentally sensitive areas, and establishes a minimum 30 metre setback from the highwater mark for buildings and structures.

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Zoning By-law No. 2003-75 implements the Official Plan by allowing agricultural uses and hobby farms in the Agricultural and Rural zones. A hobby farm is not listed as a permitted use under any of the other zones (e.g., Limited Service Residential – Waterfront). Section 5.41 of the Zoning By-law regulates the number of livestock permitted on smaller properties where a hobby farm is a permitted use (i.e. in the Agricultural and Rural zones). Livestock are not permitted on these properties if they are less than 3 acres in area. There is an exception for backyard chickens - a maximum of ten (10) hens are permitted on these properties if they are between 1 and 3 acres in size. The subject property is in the Battersea Settlement Area, and zoned RLSW. It is bordered by Loughborough Lake, a swamp, and two waterfront residential properties. The property is accessed by Noble Lane, which runs over a large farm property where several different types of livestock are raised. The property is approximately 2.5 acres in size. It is a manicured property that is being renaturalized. The chicken coop is located between a garage and Noble Lane, approximately 70 metres from the lake. This setback is more than twice the minimum distance for buildings and structures required by the Township Official Plan and Zoning Bylaw. The chicken coop is also far removed from the lane and the nearest side lot line. It is more than 55 metres from the nearest neighbouring house. Aside from being a waterfront property in a settlement area, the subject property is similar in character to other rural properties in that it is large and there is separation between uses (e.g. road, neighbours). The proposed by-law would permit a maximum of five chickens to be kept on the property. It would also allow a chicken coop as an accessory structure. The location of the chicken coop would be restricted to its current location. It is the opinion of staff that the proposed zoning by-law amendment is consistent and conforms to the Provincial Policy Statement 2020, the County of Frontenac Official Plan, and the South Frontenac Official Plan, and represents good planning for the subject property. Financial Implications Not applicable. Relationship to Strategic Plan ☒ Not applicable to this report. ☐ This initiative adheres to the following strategic pillars and directions of the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan. • •

Pillars: Choose an item. Action Item (If Applicable): Insert Text

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Climate Considerations ☒ Not applicable to this report. ☐ This initiative supports climate change mitigation/adaption efforts in South Frontenac; and/or impacts the Township’s resilience to climate change. Notice/Consultation Council held a public meeting under the Planning Act on December 19, 2023. Notice of the Statutory Public Meeting was given pursuant to the requirements of the Planning Act, 20 days in advance of the Public Meeting. Application and Supporting Documents The application and supporting documents (if any) can be accessed through the Township’s CivicWeb Document Center, https://southfrontenac.civicweb.net/filepro/documents/90083/ Attachments Exhibit A – By-law 2024-08 Approvals Prepared By: Christine Woods, RPP, MCIP, Senior Planner Submitted By:

Brad Wright, Director of Development Services Approved By:

Louise Fragnito, Chief Administrative Officer

www.southfrontenac.net South Frontenac is a welcoming and thriving rural community.

Page 184 of 198 Township of South Frontenac By-Law Number 2024-08 Page 1 of 3 By-Law Number 2024-08 A By-Law to amend By-law 2003-75, as amended, to rezone land from Limited Service Residential – Waterfront (RLSW) to Limited Service Residential – Waterfront – Special Provision (RLSW-138) on lands described as 4839 Noble Lane, Part of lot 7, Concession 9, District of Storrington Whereas pursuant to the provisions of Section 34 of the Planning Act, RSO 1990 as amended, the Council of a Municipality may enact by-laws regulating the use of land and the erection, location and use of buildings and structures thereon; and Whereas By-law 2003-75 being the Zoning By-law regulates the use of land and the erection, location and use of buildings and structures within the Township of South Frontenac; and Whereas the Council of the Corporation of the Township of South Frontenac considered all written and oral submissions received on this application, the effect of which helped Council make an informed decision; and Whereas there be no further notice pursuant to Section 34 (17) of the Planning Act; Therefore be it resolved that the Council of the Corporation of the Township of South Frontenac hereby enacts as follows:

That Schedule “H” to Zoning By-law Number 2003-75 as amended, is hereby further amended by changing the zoning from Limited Service Residential – Waterfront (RLSW) to Limited Service Residential – Waterfront – Special Provision (RLSW-138) for the lands shown on Schedule “A” herein.
That Zoning By-law Number 2003-75 as amended is hereby further amended by adding a new section RLSW-138 (4839 Noble Lane, Part of Lot 7, Concession 9, District of Storrington) immediately after the last Limited Service Residential – Waterfront – Special Provision section to read as follows: RLSW-138 (4839 Noble Lane, Part of Lot 7, Concession 9, District of Storrington) Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 10 or any other provision of this By-law to the contrary, the lands zoned Special Limited Service Residential – Waterfront (RLSW-138) shall be used in accordance with the following: •

In addition to the Permitted Uses in Section 10.2, the following accessory uses are permitted: o Chicken Coop o Keeping a maximum of five (5) chickens

•

Zone Provisions for Chicken Coop o Setback from highwater mark (Minimum) o Front Yard (Minimum) o Interior Side Yard (Minimum)

70 metres (230 ft.) 70 metres (230 ft.) 15 metres (50 ft.)

Page 185 of 198 Township of South Frontenac By-Law Number 2024-08 Page 2 of 3 All other provisions of this by-law shall apply. 3. This By-law shall come into force in accordance with Section 34 of the Planning Act, 1990, as amended, either upon the date of passage or as otherwise provided by said Section 34. Given First and Second Readings: Tuesday, January 16, 2024 Given Third Reading and Passed: Tuesday, January 16, 2024

James Thompson, Clerk

Ron Vandewal, Mayor

Page 186 of 198 Township of South Frontenac By-Law Number 2024-08 Page 3 of 3 Schedule A of By-law 2024-08

Page 187 of 198

To:

Council

From:

Senior Planner

Date of Meeting:

Tuesday, January 16, 2024

Subject:

Lake Ecosystem Grants – Annual Report

Report Number:

2024-012

Summary This report provides Council with a summary of the projects completed with assistance from the Lake Ecosystem Grant Program. Recommendation This Report is for information purposes only. Background The Lake Ecosystem Grant program supports and encourages the preservation, restoration, monitoring, and analysis of lake ecosystems within the Township. It places priority on projects that have the greatest positive impact on the health and welfare of lake ecosystems, with consideration of four objectives, which are to: 1. 2. 3. 4.

Reduce or limit diffuse or point source runoff primarily caused by human disturbance of the land. Create or increase buffer zones along the lakeshore and/or banks of creeks and streams that drain into lakes. Protect or enhance wildlife habitat. Enable or perform monitoring and/or inventories of the lake environment and its contributing watershed in order to fill knowledge gaps.

The grant program funds projects up to $10,000. On an exceptional basis, larger requests may be considered. Discussion/Analysis The Lake Ecosystem Grant Program was established in 2021. To date, the program has provided funding for twelve projects with grants totalling $103,430.98. The Township has received final reports on seven of the projects. The projects had, or will lead to, a positive impact on the health and welfare of local lake ecosystems. Many of the www.southfrontenac.net South Frontenac is a welcoming and thriving rural community.

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projects have inspired other groups to consider implementing similar projects in other parts of the Township and in the broader region. These projects are summarized below.

Applicant: Fourteen Island and Mink Lakes Watershed Association Grant Value: $10,000 Project Summary: A Scoped Dam Safety Assessment was prepared for the dam on Fourteen Island Lake. This study was required to be completed as part of the permitting process before structural repairs can be done to the dam. A second grant was awarded in 2023 to help fund the detailed engineering design for the repairs. A separate report will be provided when that project is complete. Also, the group are in discussion with Quinte Conservation about transferring long-term operation and maintenance of the dam.
Applicant: Inverary Lake Residents Association Grant Value: $4,153.98 Project Summary: No Wake signs were purchased and placed along the shores of Inverary Lake in order to promote slow boating and reduced wakes. An extensive shoreline assessment was conducted by Watersheds Canada through the “Love Your Lake” program. The association will receive reports on every property with respect to the health of the shoreline and recommendations on actions to improve the health of the lake ecosystem. They were approached by a few other local lake associations with questions about the program and are considering participating in the Love Your Lake program.
Applicant: Queen’s University Arnott Lab Grant Value: $8,274 Project Summary: Two Master’s students in the Arnott Lab at Queen’s University measured seasonal changes in conductivity in the nearshore and offshore of Verona Lake, Gould Lake and Sydenham Lake. A spike in conductivity may indicate an increase in road salt due to runoff. They also collected Daphnia (water fleas) for life history and toxicity experiments from Loughborough, Hambly, and Verona lakes. These results were used to examine variation in sensitivity to road salt, providing an indication of the scope for evolutionary adaptation in the region. They developed a partnership with Cataraqui Conservation, and met with Lake Partner Program volunteers at the 2022 Sydenham Lakes and Trails Day. They also presented their findings at the 2023 Lake Forum that was hosted by the Lake Ecosystem Advisory Committee.
Applicant: Queen’s University Biological Station Grant Value: $10,473 Project Summary: The project sampled and analyzed environmental DNA (eDNA) from 20 waterbodies in South Frontenac. This is a non-invasive method to assess aquatic species diversity. Early detection of aquatic invasive species in lake ecosystems (and upstream or downstream influences), combined with presence data of native species of conservation concern will provide a baseline inventory of these areas, www.southfrontenac.net South Frontenac is a welcoming and thriving rural community.

Township of South Frontenac Staff Report Number – 2024-012

Page 189 of 198

create a new tool for real-time monitoring of local biodiversity, and may inform management and conservation in South Frontenac. Fourteen individuals from South Frontenac and surrounding areas attended an event at the Elbow Lake Environmental Education Centre on October 27, 2022 to learn about how eDNA and drones can provide us with insights into the species in our lakes. This research and the public event inspired a local high school teacher to incorporate more of this work into an existing high school drone course offered at the local high school. 5. Applicant: Wolfe Lake Association Grant Value: $6,000 Project Summary: The Wolfe Lake Association actively engaged the public in a lead buy back program to help reduce lead fishing tackle in the environment and to raise community awareness of its dangers to aquatic wildlife. The “Let’s Get the Lead Out” program collected 210 pounds of lead in its first year. They created an impactful and recognizable logo, designed and printed public awareness literature, and designed and launched a comprehensive website. They promoted lead-free fishing by distributing sample bags at community events, annual general meetings, and as promotional draw prizes. Other area lake associations pledged support and helped raise awareness. Awareness signs were installed at several local boat launches. The program received broad exposure through various media outlets. 6. Applicant: Dog and Cranberry Lakes Association Grant Value: $10,000 Project Summary: A shoreline assessment of 360 properties was conducted by Watersheds Canada through the “Love Your Lake” program. Each property owner received a report with respect to the health of the shoreline and recommendations on actions to improve the health of the lake ecosystem. A State of the Lake Report was completed. An intern worked on a project that engaged community members to become citizen scientists, particularly related to identifying and mapping invasive and endangered species. The information gathered from this project will directly inform a lake stewardship plan. Partnerships were created with Watersheds Canada and Cataraqui Conservation. 7. Applicant: The Nature Conservancy of Canada Grant Value: $10,000 Project Summary: This project included two components that were focused on improving wetland habitat at the Milburn Creek Nature Reserve in Battersea. The first component was to reduce the population of invasive phragmites in Milburn Creek through the application of an approved herbicide. Phragmites was controlled in 0.42ha of the 11ha wetland. NCC connected with neighbours living adjacent to the property to share about this invasive species, how they are managing the property, and address questions or concerns. They hope that by reducing the population at Milburn Creek that this will help reduce the spread of phragmites to downstream lakes including Milburn Bay and Dog Lake. www.southfrontenac.net South Frontenac is a welcoming and thriving rural community.

Township of South Frontenac Staff Report Number – 2024-012

Page 190 of 198

The second component was to engage community members through three volunteer events to control invasive buckthorn and garlic mustard plants along the trail. NCC hosted three Conservation Volunteers events at Milburn Creek where volunteers participated in managing invasive species including pulling garlic mustard (six heavy duty contractor garbage bags) and cutting European buckthorn (115 shrubs). A total of 15 individuals participated for a total of 58 volunteer hours. Some members from the Friends of Lemoine Point Conservation Area participated in an event, and afterwards they felt more prepared to do similar management at the conservation area. Financial Implications To date, the program has provided funding for twelve projects with grants totalling $103,430.98. Relationship to Strategic Plan ☐ Not applicable to this report. ☒ This initiative is supported by the following guiding principles of the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan. • •

Priority: Environmental Stewardship Action Item: Our commitment to a sustainable future is showcased through dedicated education, policy development, and stakeholder engagement focused on environmental protection.

Climate Considerations ☐ Not applicable to this report. ☒ This initiative supports climate change mitigation/adaption efforts in South Frontenac; and/or impacts the Township’s resilience to climate change. Approvals Prepared By: Christine Woods RPP, MCIP, Senior Planner Submitted By:

Brad Wright, Director of Development Services Approved By:

Louise Fragnito, Chief Administrative Officer www.southfrontenac.net South Frontenac is a welcoming and thriving rural community.

Page 191 of 198

To:

Council

Prepared by:

Development Services Department

Date of Meeting:

January 16, 2024

Subject:

3rd Quarter 2023 – Building Services Report

Summary: This report documents the delivery of Building Services within the Development Services Department between July 1, 2023, and September 30, 2023. Recommendation: This report is for information only. Background: Each quarter, Building Services reports publicly on the number of permit applications being received and processed by the Township. Quarterly construction values from 2020 to 2023 are provided, as well as building permits that have been issued, and number closed. This report also includes the delivery of Part 8 services on behalf of all four (4) of the Frontenac Townships. Discussion/Analysis: During Q3 of 2023, Building Services received 219 files. Of those files, 97 were for Part 8 applications across the four Frontenac Townships and 122 were for South Frontenac building applications. These files include building and sewage system applications, civic number applications, pool enclosures, address assignments, investigation files and other Part 8 services including the review of planning applications in all four Frontenac Townships. South Frontenac Building Permits Issued: The following chart provides a breakdown by permit type for the 3rd quarter of 2023 exclusively for South Frontenac and provides a comparison to previous years. Application Type

Q3-2020 Q3-2021 Q3-2022 Q3-2023

Accessory Building

Deck/Covered Porch

Demolition

Single Detached Dwelling

Pool Enclosure

Renovation/Repair/Addition

Seasonal Dwelling

Secondary Dwelling Unit

Sewage System

Sign, Solar, Tent etc.

Woodstove/Fireplace

Totals

145

158

157

150

Q3 2023 – Building Services Page 192 of 198 The total construction value for all Q3 building permits (South Frontenac building permits and sewage systems for all Townships) was over $18.1 million dollars. Of this amount, the estimated Q3 construction value for issued sewage system permits for all Frontenac Townships was $1,929,500. The table below illustrates quarterly construction values from previous years. Overall, permits issued are higher than Q3 2022, but the construction values has decreased. Quarterly Construction Values for all issued permits (includes Part 8): Quarterly Construction Values

Total

2020

$2,127,530

$8,131,300

$10,645,958

$9,438,047

$30,342,835

of permits

101

145

366

2021

$5,533,201

$16,856,695

$10,129,267

$8,203,592

$40,722,755

of permits

149

113

411

2022

$15,122,652

$22,910,670

$20,188,974

$15,959,458

$74,181,754

of permits

149

121

436

2023

$7,101,555

$21,496,718

$18,112,670

$46,710,943

of permits

199

207

474

Delivery of Part 8 Services (Q3 - Fees): The following chart illustrates Part 8 Services across four (4) Townships for the 3rd quarter of 2023. Total revenue for the 3rd quarter 2023 totaled $83,853, which was higher than the $79,579 that was collected in 3rd quarter 2022.

Minor Performance Variance Review Review 0 1

$15,648

$515

$16,678

Central Frontenac

Total fees

$14,670

$3,090

$515

$18,275

Frontenac Islands

Total fees

$5,868

South Frontenac

Total fees

$39,686

$1,030

$668

$1,545

$103

$43,032

Total Part 8 Revenue

$75,872

$4,635

$668

$2,575

$103

$83,853

Permits

Consent Review

North Frontenac

Total fees

Part 8 Services

Record Search

Total

In Q3, Building Services issued a total of 83 Part 8 sewage system permits, and commented on 11 planning applications from a Part 8 perspective across Frontenac County, and completed 6 performance reviews/record searches. Building Files Closed: In Q3 Building Services closed 85 files. Financial Implications: Building Fees and Part 8 Fees Q3 revenue collected for all South Frontenac building permits and Part 8 across Frontenac County totaled $417,855. Year to date revenue totals $948,344. Relationship to Strategic Plan:☒ ☒ This initiative is supported by the following priorities of the 2019-2022 Strategic Plan.

Q3 2023 – Building Services Page 193 of 198 •

Priority: 3. Ensure the organizational capacity to deliver cost-effective services in a changing world.

Notice/Consultation: Rebecca Roy, Chief Building Official Approvals: Prepared by: Peggy Spafford, Permit Intake Coordinator Submitted by:

Brad Wright Director of Development Services Approved By:

Louise Fragnito, CPA, CGA Chief Administrative Officer

Page 194 of 198

And To:

Council

Prepared by:

Development Services Department

Date of Meeting:

January 16, 2024

Subject:

3rd Quarter 2023 – Planning Services Report

Summary This report documents the delivery of Planning Services within the Development Services Department between July 1, 2023, and September 30, 2023 (3rd Quarter, 2023).

Recommendation This report is for information only.

Background The charts below break out planning activities by application type for Q3 2023 and compares the number to 2022 quarterly totals. The activities outlined below were completed by the Senior Planner and Planner(s). Pre-consultation Meetings

Number of Meetings

2022 – 4th Quarter Total

2022 – 3rd Quarter Total

2022 – 2nd Quarter Total 2022 – 1st Quarter Total

78 95

2023 – 3rd Quarter Total

www.southfrontenac.net Natural, Vibrant and Growing – a Progressive, Rural Leader.

Page 195 of 198 Township of South Frontenac Staff Report – Q3 - 2023 Report – Planning Services Consent Applications Complete Applications Submitted 2022 – 4th Quarter Total

2022 – 3rd Quarter Total

2022 – 2nd Quarter Total 2022 – 1st Quarter Total

17 15

2023 – 3rd Quarter Total

Consent Applications – Approvals by Delegated Approval versus Applications Heard by Committee of Adjustment Undisputed Consents Disputed Consents Approved by Heard by Committee Director of Development of Adjustment Services 2022 – 4th Quarter Total 5 2 rd 2022 – 3 Quarter Total 17 6 2022 – 2nd Quarter Total 4 19 2022 – 1st Quarter Total 17 0 2023 – 3rd Quarter Total Minor Variance Applications

2022 – 3rd Quarter Total 2022 – 2nd Quarter Total 2022 – 1st Quarter Total

Complete Applications Submitted 13 9 11 19

2023 – 3rd Quarter Total

2022 – 4th Quarter Total

Zoning By-law Amendment Applications Complete Applications Submitted 2022 – 4th Quarter Total

2022 – 2nd Quarter Total 2022 – 1st Quarter Total

1 5 9 2

2023 – 3rd Quarter Total

2022 – 3rd Quarter Total

www.southfrontenac.net Natural, Vibrant and Growing – a Progressive, Rural Leader.

Page 196 of 198 Township of South Frontenac Staff Report – Q3 - 2023 Report – Planning Services Site Plan Control Applications Applications Submitted 2022 – 4th Quarter Total 2022 – 3rd Quarter Total 2022 – 2nd Quarter Total 2022 – 1st Quarter Total

1 3 7 3

2023 – 3rd Quarter Total

Development Agreements Agreements Prepared 2022 – 4th Quarter Total

2022 – 3rd Quarter Total

2022 – 2nd Quarter Total

2022 – 1st Quarter Total

2023 – 3rd Quarter Total

Certificates of Official Issued (Finalizing Consent Applications) Certificates Issued 2022 – 4th Quarter Total 2022 – 3rd Quarter Total 2022 – 2nd Quarter Total 2022 – 1st Quarter Total

19 16 9 11

2023 – 3rd Quarter Total

Other In Q3 of 2023: • 2 Minimum Distance Separation Calculation were completed. Plans of Subdivision & Condominiums •

A 31-lot residential plan of subdivision in Sunbury was submitted to the County in April 2020. The County held a statutory public meeting in Fall 2022. Council approved a draft plan of subdivision in Q2 2023. The developer is currently working on satisfying conditions.

•

A 13-lot residential plan of subdivision (Hartington Subdivision). Staff completed drafting of a subdivision agreement and the agreement was signed by the developer in July

www.southfrontenac.net Natural, Vibrant and Growing – a Progressive, Rural Leader.

Page 197 of 198 Township of South Frontenac Staff Report – Q3 - 2023 Report – Planning Services 2023. The developer is finalizing engineering requirements before proceeding with building permit applications.

Discussion/Analysis The application numbers and demand for planning services in the 3rd quarter of 2023 are up slightly compared to the 3rd quarter of 2022. Overall, there has been an increase in planning inquiries, applications, and pre-consultation meetings in 2023 compared to 2022.

Financial Implications None.

Relationship to Strategic Plans ☒ This initiative is supported by the following priorities of the 2019-2022 Strategic Plan. •

Priority: 3. Ensure the organizational capacity to deliver cost-effective services in a changing world.

Notice/Consultation

Planning staff

Attachments None

Approvals Submitted by:

Brad Wright Director of Development Services Approved By:

Louise Fragnito, CPA, CGA Chief Administrative Officer

www.southfrontenac.net Natural, Vibrant and Growing – a Progressive, Rural Leader.

Page 198 of 198

TOWNSHIP OF SOUTH FRONTENAC BY-LAW 2024-09 A BY-LAW TO CONFIRM GENERALLY ALL ACTIONS AND PROCEEDINGS OF THE COUNCIL MEETING OF THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF SOUTH FRONTENAC ON JANUARY 16, 2024 Whereas Section 8 of the Municipal Act, S.O. 2001 c. 25 and amendments thereto provides that a municipality has the capacity, rights powers and privileges of a natural person for the purpose of exercising its authority under the Municipal Act of any other Act; and; Whereas Subsection 2 of Section 11 of the Municipal Act S.O. 2001, c. 25 and amendments thereto provides that a lower-tier municipality and an upper-tier municipality may pass by-laws respecting matters within the spheres of the jurisdiction described in the Table to Subsection 2, subject to certain provisions, and; Whereas Section 5 of the Municipal Act, S.O 2001 c. 25 and amendments thereto provides that a municipal power, including a municipality’s capacity, rights, powers and privileges under Section 8 shall be exercised by its council and by by-law unless the municipality is specifically authorized to do otherwise, and Whereas the Council of the Township of South Frontenac deems it expedient to confirm its actions and proceedings; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE COUNCIL CORPORATION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF SOUTH FRONTENAC, HEREBY ENACTS AS FOLLOWS: 1.

The all actions and proceedings of the Council of the Corporation of the Township of South Frontenac taken at its regular meeting held on January 16, 2024 be confirmed as actions for which the municipality has the capacity, rights, powers and privileges of a natural person.

That all actions and proceedings of the Council of the Corporation of the Township of South Frontenac held January 16, 2024 be confirmed as being matters within the spheres of jurisdiction described in Subsection 2 of Section 11 of the Municipal Act, S.O. 2001, c.25 and amendments thereto.

That all actions and proceedings of the Council of the Corporation of the Township of South Frontenac taken at its regular meeting held on January 16, 2024 except those taken by by-law and those required by bylaw to be done by resolution are hereby sanctioned, ratified and confirmed as though set out within and forming part of this by-law.

Execution by the Mayor and the Clerk of all Deeds, Instruments and other Documents necessary to give effect to any such Resolution, Motion or other action and the affixing of the Corporate Seal to any such Deed, Instruments or other Documents is hereby authorized and confirmed.

This By-law shall come into force and take effect on the date of its passage.

Read a first and second time this 16 day of January 2024. Read a third time and finally passed this 16 day of January 2024. THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF SOUTH FRONTENAC

Ron Vandewal, Mayor

James Thompson, Clerk

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