Taken from the roll call in the town’s own minutes. The minutes record who was not there and almost never why.
What was decided (37 motions)
32 carried, 5 recorded otherwise. Every motion below is printed as the minutes print it.
That the Council of the City of Guelph now hold a meeting that is closed to the public, pursuant to Section 239(2)(b) and (c) of the Municipal Act, regarding personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees and proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board. Voting
Moved by Councillor Allt, seconded by Councillor Busuttil
Carried
That Susan J Ferguson Prior, Jennifer Popkey, Kathleen Beitz, Cheryl Stacey, and Dean Martin be appointed to the Accessibility Advisory Committee for a term ending November 2026 or until such time as successors are appointed. Voting
Moved by Councillor Richardson, seconded by Councillor Gibson
Carried
That the minutes of the open Council Meetings held June 10, 17, and 24, 2025, and the Open Committee of the Whole minutes held June 3, 2025, be confirmed as recorded and without being read. Voting
Moved by Councillor Allt, seconded by Councillor Busuttil
Carried
That the July 22, 2025 Council Consent Agenda identified below be adopted. 10.1 Integrity Commissioner Report on Code of Conduct Complaint 2025-01 1. Code of Conduct Investigation Report - City of Guelph - 2025-01.pdf That the Integrity Commissioner Report on Code of Conduct Complaint 2025-01, be received. Voting
Moved by Councillor Busuttil, seconded by Councillor Downer
Carried
That a one-time grant of $600,000 be approved for 2027 as financial investment towards Guelph Storm Limited, contingent on a successful bid in securing the 2027 Memorial Cup in Guelph. That a commitment of up to $100,000 of in-kind fees at Sleeman Centre associated with facility ice rental, licensing fees, and facility staff be approved for 2027, contingent on a successful bid in securing the 2027 Memorial Cup in Guelph. That the one-time grant of $600,000 and the in-kind commitment of up to $100,000 in facility costs for Sleeman Centre be funded from the Municipal Accommodation Tax Reserve (184) in 2027, if the Guelph Storm bid is successful for the 2027 Memorial Cup. That the Chief Administrative Office be directed to include a letter in the bid package confirming the 2027 financial investment and in-kind commitment at Sleeman Centre. That the Chief Administrative Officer be directed to formalize and execute an agreement, to the satisfaction of the City Solicitor, with Guelph Storm Limited that includes the particulars noted above and as outlined within the staff report entitled Guelph Storm 2027 Memorial Cup Bid, dated July 8, 2025. Voting
Moved by Councillor Gibson, seconded by Councillor Allt
Carried
That clause 1 be amended to include "and permanent solutions" Voting
Moved by Councillor Caton, seconded by Councillor Goller
Carried
That Council endorse a community-led approach to increasing the accessibility of businesses in Guelph with initiatives such as the StopGap Foundation, and permanent solutions. And that the Downtown Guelph Business Association and the Chamber of Commerce be encouraged to raise awareness about these initiatives and grant opportunities with Guelph businesses to enhance accessibility for all. Voting
Moved by Councillor Klassen, seconded by Councillor Caron
Carried
That the Downtown Infrastructure Renewal Program Capital Implementation Plan, 2025, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved. That the sequencing plan for Phase 1: Wyndham Street North Reconstruction including extended working hours, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved. That the recommended Concept Plan for St. George’s Square, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved including the following: That staff be encouraged to include flexibility in the design of St. George’s square to allow for present and future seasonal patios and community events, including but not limited to: Consider that site furniture such as benches, chairs, and waste receptacles are designed and located to allow for east reconfiguration or temporary removal to accommodate different uses and events. That staff be encouraged to integrate more natural materials and design elements that reflect the heritage and character of our downtown into the final design of St. George's Square including but not limited to: Use of stone, wood, or other natural finishes where feasible; including the use of the limestone in the city’s salvaged material storage, Incorporation of heritage-inspired features such as: signage or art that shares local history and indigenous stories, gateway features such as low stone walls, or planters that tie the space to the downtown's historical context, planting and landscaping with native species and that soften hard su
Moved by Councillor Downer, seconded by Councillor Busuttil
Lost
That clause 3 of the main motion, be amended to replace the word encouraged with directed. Voting
Moved by Councillor Klassen, seconded by Councillor Goller
Carried
That the size of the area for play be reduced to include an interactive placemaking structure, and minimum safety clearance zones as defined by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA), in order to increase flexibility for programming and events within St. George's Square. Voting
Moved by Councillor Downer, seconded by Councillor Klassen
Carried
2. That staff explore the inclusion of placemaking lighting within the design of the pavers or through the use of projectors throughout St. George’s Square including enhancing the proposed interactive placemaking structure. Voting
Moved by Councillor Downer, seconded by Councillor Klassen
Carried
3. That staff explore modifying the size and materiality of the lower basin of the Family Fountain so that it is consistent with the design of St. George's Square, accommodates off-season intervention that contributes aesthetically to St. George's Square, includes placemaking lighting, and honours the integrity of the artwork. Voting
Moved by Councillor Downer, seconded by Councillor Klassen
4. That the final design for St. George's Square be brought forward for Council approval by the end of 2025. Voting
Moved by Councillor Downer, seconded by Councillor Klassen
Carried
1. That the Downtown Infrastructure Renewal Program Capital Implementation Plan, 2025, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved. 2. That the sequencing plan for Phase 1: Wyndham Street North Reconstruction including extended working hours, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved. 4. That the construction mitigation plan for Phase 1: Wyndham Street North Reconstruction, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved. 5. That the delegation of authority by-law, By-law (2024) – 20994, be amended to delegate authority to the DCAO of Infrastructure, Development and Environment, with written approval from the City Treasurer, to modify the following user fees at various times as needed for the duration of the Downtown Infrastructure Renewal Program, with
Moved by Councillor Downer, seconded by Councillor Busuttil
Lost
3. That the recommended Concept Plan for St. George’s Square, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved including the following: That staff be directed to include flexibility in the design of St. George’s square to allow for present and future seasonal patios and community events, including but not limited to: Consider that site furniture such as benches, chairs, and waste receptacles are designed and located to allow for easy reconfiguration or temporary removal to accommodate different uses and events. That staff be directed to integrate more natural materials and design elements that reflect the heritage and character of our downtown into the final design of St. George's Square including but not limited to: Use of stone, wood, or other natural finishes where feasible; including the use of the limestone in the city’s salvaged material storage, Incorporation of heritage-inspired features such as: signage or art that shares local history and indigenous stories, gateway features such as low stone walls, or planters that tie the space to the downtown's historical context, planting and landscaping with native species and that soften hard surfaces, brick or stone paving patterns that reflect traditional streetscape. That the size of the area for play be reduced to include an interactive placemaking structure, and minimum safety clearance zones as defined by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA), in order to increase flexibility for programming and events
Moved by Councillor Downer, seconded by Councillor Busuttil
Carried
That Section 1.5.1.3, Eligibility and Qualifications, of the Public Appointment Policy, approved by Council at the March 25, 2025 City Council meeting, be suspended. That staff be directed to review the Eligibility and Qualifications section of the Public Appointment Policy and report back to Council with updates regarding residency eligibility that are reflective of the Advisory Committee of Council Governance Framework and individual Terms of Reference. Voting
Moved by Councillor Caron, seconded by Councillor Allt
Carried
That by-laws (2025) – 21086 to (2025) – 21088, (2025) – 21094 to (2025) – 21096, (2025) – 21109, (2025) – 21117, by-laws (2025) – 21123 to (2025) – 21129, and by-law (2025) - 21131, be approved subject to Section 284.11 (4) of the Municipal Act. Voting
Moved by Councillor Busuttil, seconded by Councillor Billings
Carried
That the meeting be adjourned (7:29 p.m.).
Moved by Councillor Klassen, seconded by Councillor Goller
Carried
1. That the Council of the City of Guelph now hold a meeting that is closed to the public, pursuant to Section 239(2)(b) and (c) of the Municipal Act, regarding personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees and proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board. Voting in Favour: (12): Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Allt, Councillor Billings, Councillor Busuttil, Councillor Caron, Councillor Caton, Councillor Chew, Councillor Downer, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Klassen, and Councillor Richardson
Moved by Councillor Allt, seconded by Councillor Busuttil
Carried
That Susan J Ferguson Prior, Jennifer Popkey, Kathleen Beitz, Cheryl Stacey, and Dean Martin be appointed to the Accessibility Advisory Committee for a term ending November 2026 or until such time as successors are appointed. Voting in Favour: (12): Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Allt, Councillor Billings, Councillor Busuttil, Councillor Caron, Councillor Caton, Councillor Chew, Councillor Downer, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Klassen, and Councillor Richardson
Moved by Councillor Richardson, seconded by Councillor Gibson
Carried
1. That the minutes of the open Council Meetings held June 10, 17, and 24, 2025, and the Open Committee of the Whole minutes held June 3, 2025, be confirmed as recorded and without being read. Voting in Favour: (12): Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Allt, Councillor Billings, Councillor Busuttil, Councillor Caron, Councillor Caton, Councillor Chew, Councillor Downer, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Klassen, and Councillor Richardson
Moved by Councillor Allt, seconded by Councillor Busuttil
1. That By-law Number (2023)-20790, as amended, known as the Zoning By-law for the City of Guelph as it affects part of the property municipally known as 343 Waterloo Avenue, legally described as Part of Lots 11 and 12, Registered Plan 274, City of Guelph, County of Wellington be amended in accordance with Attachment 1 of the City Council Report, Public Meeting and Decision Meeting Item 343 Waterloo Avenue Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendments Ward 3, dated July 22, 2025. 2. That a complete site-plan application be submitted to the satisfaction of the City chief planner and City engineer prior to issuance of building permits. 3. That permit approvals are contingent upon the applicant entering into an affordable housing agreement with the City of Guelph. 4. That the applicant pays all applicable planning and development fees associated with the project as determined by the City of Guelph. City Council Minutes: July 22, 2025 - 4 Voting in Favour: (11): Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Billings, Councillor Busuttil, Councillor Caron, Councillor Caton, Councillor Chew, Councillor Downer, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Klassen, and Councillor Richardson Voting Against: (1): Councillor Allt
Moved by Councillor Goller, seconded by Councillor Richardson
Carried
In favour (11): Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Billings, Councillor Busuttil, Councillor Caron, Councillor Caton, Councillor Chew, Councillor Downer, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Klassen, Councillor Richardson · Opposed (1): Councillor Allt
1. That the July 22, 2025 Committee of the Whole Consent Agenda identified below be adopted. 9.1 Paramedic Services First Quarter 2025 Budget Variance Report - 2025-237 1. That the Joint Social Services and Land Ambulance Committee recommends to City Council that the 2026 forecasted budget of $1,019,200 for PM0010 Paramedic Vehicle Replacement be advanced to 2025 to align the budget to the time of procurement per normal City process, as part of the Second Quarter Budget Monitoring Report scheduled for September 3, 2025. 2. That the Joint Social Services and Land Ambulance Committee recommends to City Council that the 2026 forecasted budget of $300,000 for PM0002 Paramedic Growth Vehicle be advanced to 2025 for the early ordering of one growth ambulance, as part of the Second Quarter Budget Monitoring Report scheduled for September 3, 2025. 3. That the Joint Social Services and Land Ambulance Committee recommends to City Council that the 2027 forecasted budget of $779,700 for PM0010 Paramedic Vehicle Replacement be advanced to 2025 for the early ordering of three ambulances, as part of the Second Quarter Budget Monitoring Report scheduled for September 3, 2025. 9.2 Paramedic Service Response Performance 2024 and Performance Plan Recommendation for 2026 - 2025-295 City Council Minutes: July 22, 2025 - 5 1. That the report on the Response Time Performance results for Guelph Wellington Paramedic Service in 2024 be received, and 2. That Committee recommends to City of Guelph Counc
Moved by Councillor Allt, seconded by Councillor Richardson
Carried
That the July 22, 2025 Council Consent Agenda identified below be adopted. 10.1 Integrity Commissioner Report on Code of Conduct Complaint 2025-01 1. That the Integrity Commissioner Report on Code of Conduct Complaint 2025-01, be received. Voting in Favour: (12): Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Allt, Councillor Billings, Councillor Busuttil, Councillor Caron, Councillor Caton, Councillor Chew, Councillor Downer, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Klassen, and Councillor Richardson
Moved by Councillor Busuttil, seconded by Councillor Downer
Carried
1. That a one-time grant of $600,000 be approved for 2027 as financial investment towards Guelph Storm Limited, contingent on a successful bid in securing the 2027 Memorial Cup in Guelph. 2. That a commitment of up to $100,000 of in-kind fees at Sleeman Centre associated with facility ice rental, licensing fees, City Council Minutes: July 22, 2025 - 7 and facility staff be approved for 2027, contingent on a successful bid in securing the 2027 Memorial Cup in Guelph. 3. That the one-time grant of $600,000 and the in-kind commitment of up to $100,000 in facility costs for Sleeman Centre be funded from the Municipal Accommodation Tax Reserve (184) in 2027, if the Guelph Storm bid is successful for the 2027 Memorial Cup. 4. That the Chief Administrative Office be directed to include a letter in the bid package confirming the 2027 financial investment and in-kind commitment at Sleeman Centre. 5. That the Chief Administrative Officer be directed to formalize and execute an agreement, to the satisfaction of the City Solicitor, with Guelph Storm Limited that includes the particulars noted above and as outlined within the staff report entitled Guelph Storm 2027 Memorial Cup Bid, dated July 8, 2025. Voting in Favour: (10): Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Allt, Councillor Billings, Councillor Busuttil, Councillor Chew, Councillor Downer, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Klassen, and Councillor Richardson Voting Against: (2): Councillor Caron, and Councillor Caton
Moved by Councillor Gibson, seconded by Councillor Allt
Carried
That clause 1 be amended to include "and permanent solutions" Voting in Favour: (12): Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Allt, Councillor Billings, Councillor Busuttil, Councillor Caron, Councillor Caton, Councillor Chew, Councillor Downer, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Klassen, and Councillor Richardson
Moved by Councillor Caton, seconded by Councillor Goller
1. That Council endorse a community-led approach to increasing the accessibility of businesses in Guelph with initiatives such as the StopGap Foundation, and permanent solutions. 2. And that the Downtown Guelph Business Association and the Chamber of Commerce be encouraged to raise awareness about these initiatives and grant opportunities with Guelph businesses to enhance accessibility for all. Voting in Favour: (12): Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Allt, Councillor Billings, Councillor Busuttil, Councillor Caron, Councillor Caton, Councillor Chew, Councillor Downer, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Klassen, and Councillor Richardson
Moved by Councillor Klassen, seconded by Councillor Caron
Carried
1. That the Downtown Infrastructure Renewal Program Capital Implementation Plan, 2025, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved. City Council Minutes: July 22, 2025 - 9 2. That the sequencing plan for Phase 1: Wyndham Street North Reconstruction including extended working hours, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved. 3. That the recommended Concept Plan for St. George’s Square, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved including the following: i. That staff be encouraged to include flexibility in the design of St. George’s square to allow for present and future seasonal patios and community events, including but not limited to: Consider that site furniture such as benches, chairs, and waste receptacles are designed and located to allow for east reconfiguration or temporary removal to accommodate different uses and events. ii. That staff be encouraged to integrate more natural materials and design elements that reflect the heritage and character of our downtown into the final design of St. George's Square including but not limited to: Use of stone, wood, or other natural finishes where feasible; including the use of the limestone in the city’s salvaged material storage, Incorporation of heritage-inspired features such as: signage or art that shares local history and indigenous stories, gateway features such as low stone walls, or planters that tie the space to the downtown's historical context, planti
Moved by Councillor Downer, seconded by Councillor Busuttil
Lost
That clause 3 of the main motion, be amended to replace the word encouraged with directed. Voting in Favour: (9): Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Allt, Councillor Busuttil, Councillor Caron, Councillor Chew, Councillor Downer, Councillor Goller, Councillor Klassen, and Councillor Richardson Voting Against: (3): Councillor Billings, Councillor Caton, and Councillor Gibson
Moved by Councillor Klassen, seconded by Councillor Goller
City Council Minutes: July 22, 2025 - 11 1. That the Downtown Infrastructure Renewal Program Capital Implementation Plan, 2025, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved. 2. That the sequencing plan for Phase 1: Wyndham Street North Reconstruction including extended working hours, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved. 3. That the recommended Concept Plan for St. George’s Square, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved including the following: I. That staff be directed to include flexibility in the design of St. George’s square to allow for present and future seasonal patios and community events, including but not limited to: Consider that site furniture such as benches, chairs, and waste receptacles are designed and located to allow for east reconfiguration or temporary removal to accommodate different uses and events. II. That staff be directed to integrate more natural materials and design elements that reflect the heritage and character of our downtown into the final design of St. George's Square including but not limited to: Use of stone, wood, or other natural finishes where feasible; including the use of the limestone in the city’s salvaged material storage, Incorporation of heritage-inspired features such as: signage or art that shares local history and indigenous stories, gateway features such as low stone walls, or planters that tie the space to the downtown's historical context, planting
Moved by Councillor Downer, seconded by Councillor Busuttil
Lost
1. That the size of the area for play be reduced to include an interactive placemaking structure, and minimum safety clearance zones as defined by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA), in order to increase flexibility for programming and events within St. George's Square. Voting in Favour: (12): Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Allt, Councillor Billings, Councillor Busuttil, Councillor Caron, Councillor Caton, Councillor Chew, Councillor Downer, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Klassen, and Councillor Richardson
Moved by Councillor Downer, seconded by Councillor Klassen
Carried
2. That staff explore the inclusion of placemaking lighting within the design of the pavers or through the use of projectors throughout St. George’s Square including enhancing the proposed interactive placemaking structure. Voting in Favour: (12): Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Allt, Councillor Billings, Councillor Busuttil, Councillor Caron, Councillor Caton, Councillor Chew, Councillor Downer, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Klassen, and Councillor Richardson
Moved by Councillor Downer, seconded by Councillor Klassen
4. That the final design for St. George's Square be brought forward for Council approval by the end of 2025. Voting in Favour: (12): Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Allt, Councillor Billings, Councillor Busuttil, Councillor Caron, Councillor Caton, Councillor Chew, Councillor Downer, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Klassen, and Councillor Richardson
Moved by Councillor Downer, seconded by Councillor Klassen
City Council Minutes: July 22, 2025 - 17 1. That the Downtown Infrastructure Renewal Program Capital Implementation Plan, 2025, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved. 2. That the sequencing plan for Phase 1: Wyndham Street North Reconstruction including extended working hours, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved. 4. That the construction mitigation plan for Phase 1: Wyndham Street North Reconstruction, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved. 5. That the delegation of authority by-law, By-law (2024) – 20994, be amended to delegate authority to the DCAO of Infrastructure, Development and Environment, with written approval from the City Treasurer, to modify the following user fees at various times as needed for the duration of the Downtown Infrastructure Renewal Program, with
Moved by Councillor Downer, seconded by Councillor Busuttil
Lost
City Council Minutes: July 22, 2025 - 18 3. That the recommended Concept Plan for St. George’s Square, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved including the following: i. That staff be directed to include flexibility in the design of St. George’s square to allow for present and future seasonal patios and community events, including but not limited to: Consider that site furniture such as benches, chairs, and waste receptacles are designed and located to allow for easy reconfiguration or temporary removal to accommodate different uses and events. ii. That staff be directed to integrate more natural materials and design elements that reflect the heritage and character of our downtown into the final design of St. George's Square including but not limited to: Use of stone, wood, or other natural finishes where feasible; including the use of the limestone in the city’s salvaged material storage, Incorporation of heritage-inspired features such as: signage or art that shares local history and indigenous stories, gateway features such as low stone walls, or planters that tie the space to the downtown's historical context, planting and landscaping with native species and that soften hard surfaces, brick or stone paving patterns that reflect traditional streetscape. iii. That the size of the area for play be reduced to include an interactive placemaking structure, and minimum safety clearance zones as defined by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA), i
Moved by Councillor Downer, seconded by Councillor Busuttil
Carried
1. That Section 1.5.1.3, Eligibility and Qualifications, of the Public Appointment Policy, approved by Council at the March 25, 2025 City Council meeting, be suspended. 2. That staff be directed to review the Eligibility and Qualifications section of the Public Appointment Policy and report back to Council with updates regarding residency eligibility that are reflective of the Advisory Committee of Council Governance Framework and individual Terms of Reference. Voting in Favour: (12): Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Allt, Councillor Billings, Councillor Busuttil, Councillor Caron, Councillor Caton, Councillor Chew, Councillor Downer, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Klassen, and Councillor Richardson
Moved by Councillor Caron, seconded by Councillor Allt
Carried
That by-laws (2025) – 21086 to (2025) – 21088, (2025) – 21094 to (2025) – 21096, (2025) – 21109, (2025) – 21117, by-laws (2025) – 21123 to (2025) – 21129, and by-law (2025) - 21131, be approved subject to Section 284.11 (4) of the Municipal Act. Voting in Favour: (12): Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Allt, Councillor Billings, Councillor Busuttil, Councillor Caron, Councillor Caton, Councillor Chew, Councillor Downer, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Klassen, and Councillor Richardson
Moved by Councillor Busuttil, seconded by Councillor Billings