High-Level Summary

The city council meeting, chaired by Deputy Mayor Malik, discussed significant infrastructure and operational matters related to Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport and the city's ferry terminal. Key participants included Councillors Deon, May Cole, Fletcher, and Carol, who provided insights on various topics ranging from airport safety compliance to ferry terminal enhancements for better passenger experience.

Important Topics Discussed

1. Airport Safety and Compliance (File Number: Not specified)

   • The need to comply with Transport Canada's Runway and Safety Areas (RZA) legislation was critically examined. Deputy Mayor Malik highlighted, "It's a safety discussion and in order to do that you have to pick an option that you can actually do without a long period of an official plan Amendment."
   • Ensuring compliance without lengthy delays was emphasized as a priority for ensuring passenger safety.

2. Environmental Concerns and Infrastructure Projects (File Number: Not specified)

   • Discussions focused on past projects like the lake filling of the Portlands and required environmental assessments. The council emphasized adhering to regulations for waterfront developments, noting the ecological sensitivity.

3. Ferry Terminal Safety and Passenger Experience (File Number: Not specified)

   • Enhancements to the ferry terminal were discussed, including budget clarifications and master plan integrations. Deputy Mayor Malik stated, "With these improvements to capacity and service, we need to be ready to welcome even more visitors...with a better experience."
   • Project improvements aim to handle over 1.4 million annual visitors more efficiently.

4. High-Speed Transit Alternatives (File Number: Not specified)

   • Long-term alternatives such as high-speed transit across the GTA were considered to improve regional connectivity. A councillor noted, "We've got to start to look at long-term Alternatives as Eddie said before we go ahead and get rid of our airport."

5. Community Feedback and Residential Concerns (File Number: Not specified)

   • Emphasis was placed on balancing infrastructure developments with residents' concerns, especially regarding noise and environmental impacts. The need for public consultation and integration of community feedback into planning processes was highlighted.

Opportunities for Public Input

• Residents are encouraged to participate in public consultations regarding ferry terminal improvements and infrastructure projects. Feedback can be submitted through upcoming public forums and community meetings scheduled by the city council.

Motions and Outcomes

1. Runway Safety and Operational Options:

   • Title: Safety and Operational Options for Billy Bishop Airport
   • Outcome: Various options discussed, actionable options without lengthy official amendments prioritized.
   • Next Steps: Coordination with federal authorities and stakeholders for implementation.

2. Ferry Terminal Improvements:

   • Title: Amendment to Integrate Jack Layton Ferry Terminal Master Plan
   • Outcome: Passed.
   • Next Steps: Clarify project budgets, adhere to the master plan, and review organizational structures.

3. Review of Ferry Terminal Operations:

   • Title: Organizational Review for Ferry Terminal Operations
   • Outcome: Passed.
   • Next Steps: Examine the best structure to oversee ferry terminal assets and operations.

4. High-Speed Transit Alternatives:

   • Title: Consideration of High-Speed Transit Alternatives
   • Outcome: Prepared for Council.
   • Next Steps: Engage provincial authorities for feasibility studies and planning.

5. Community Engagement and Resolutions:

   • Title: Continued Community Engagement and Feedback Integration
   • Outcome: Ongoing.
   • Next Steps: Schedule future discussions and incorporate community feedback into planning.

List of Councillors Present

• Deputy Mayor Malik
• Councillor Deon
• Councillor May Cole
• Councillor Fletcher
• Councillor Carol