SUBJECT: 2015 Greening the Hill Report (Environment Strategy Update), and Environmental Management System Re-registration Update

Transcription

1 RICHMOND HILL Apip INCORPORATED Agenda Item 3 COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING February 29, 2016 SREIS Environment and Infrastructure Services Department Environment Services Division SUBJECT: 2015 Greening the Hill Report (Environment Strategy Update), and Environmental Management System Re-registration Update PURPOSE: The purpose of this report is to provide Council with the 2015 Greening the Hill Report, an annual progress update on implementation of the Environment Strategy, and to provide a status and re-certification update on the Town's ISO Environmental Management System (EMS). RECOMMENDATION(S): That Staff Report SREIS be received for information. Contact: Terry Ricketts, Director of Environment Services, ext Maria Flores, Manager of Environment Strategy & Sustainability, ext Submitted by: Stephen C. Fick Acting Commissioner of Environment & Infrastructure Services Approved by: "i. t N arbe I Chief Administrative Officer East Beaver Creek Road, Richmond Hill, ON L4B 3P RichmondHill.ca i ii

2 TOWN OF RICHMOND HILL - COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING SRE1S February 29, 2016 Page GREENING THE HILL REPORT A Progress Update on Implementation of Richmond Hill's Environment Strategy INTRODUCTION The Town of Richmond Hill and its community are strongly committed to protecting its environment. Over the past decade, while environmental issues such as climate change were considered largely global concerns the tangible effects of environmental degradation such as severe weather patterns, flooding, drought, deforestation, rising food prices, smog and invasive pests have become all too real at the local level, affecting quality of life for our residents. Federal and provincial governments have been tackling these issues with cross-boundary agreements, industry targets and regulatory programs. Local governments have an equally significant role to play given their dual role as both a corporate business and a developer of public policy. These roles directly influence Town operations, as well as the community; through them the Town has an opportunity to protect the environment and adapt to new conditions. Richmond Hill's Environmental Policy (see Attachment 1) outlines the Town's vision and commitments to achieving a more environmentally sustainable community. This same vision and commitments are reflected throughout Richmond Hill's Environment Strategy and its Environmental Management System. The purpose of this report is to update Council on two major initiatives that provide a framework for the Town to protect, restore and enhance its natural environment: the Environment Strategy; and the ISO Environmental Management System (EMS). Both these initiatives enable the Town to meet its environmental obligations and responsibilities as a municipal corporation and as a local government (i.e. public policy maker, service provider, and community programmer). ENVIRONMENT STRATEGY Greening the Hill A Strategy for Environmental Action Richmond Hill's Environment Strategy, Greening the Hill: Our Community, Our Future, is a corporate document that outlines both policy direction and specific actions that will help us better manage our community's impacts on the environment and make improvements for a more resilient and sustainable community. Developed through a five-phase process that ipcluded extensive community and stakeholder consultation, the Environment Strategy Was approved by Council on April 28,

3 TOWN OF RICHMOND HILL - COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING SREIS February 29, 2016 Page 3 The Environment Strategy describes the Town's approach to environmental management by focusing on how we can improve our air quality, water resources and land resources at a local level. To define the scope of the Environment Strategy, three focus areas (Air, Water and Land) were sub-divided into areas of municipal responsibility for which goals, objectives and strategic actions were identified: Air Quality Sustainable energy Sustainable transportation Water Resources Watershed management Surface/stormwater quality and quantity Groundwater protection, recharge and discharge Water conservation Land Resources Sustainable land development Natural environment management Invasive species management Wildlife management Sustainable urban agriculture and local food production Solid waste management The strategic actions outlined in the Environment Strategy are further categorized under the Town's three primary areas of municipal influence: regulatory powers; municipal services and operations; and community programming. Implementation of these actions is anticipated over a 15+ year time period, which mirrors the long-term planning horizon of the Town's Official Plan. Richmond Hill Committed to Leadership and Environmental Performance To ensure that the Environment Strategy remains a living corporate document, complementary tools were developed to support implementation. Following Council approval in 2014, an inter-departmental governance structure was established to help guide implementation and provide a forum for information sharing and crosscollaboration. Directors and managers on the Steering Committee and Advisory Team meet quarterly to identify annual priorities, discuss resource needs, and initiate cooperative projects. The Environment Strategy also recognizes that community engagement and environmental education are critical to changing behavior and reducing our impacts on the environment. In addition to the technical working document used by staff and partner agencies, a Public Guide to the Environment Strategy was created as a promotional and educational tool. This visually appealing, plain language document is available online, and at Richmond Hill public libraries, environmental outreach events, and meetings with local groups. To further advance Greening the Hill, an Environmental Communications Strategy was prepared to help staff deliver key messages, encourage participation, and develop education and outreach plans for current and. new programming needs. 019

4 TOWN OF RICHMOND HILL - COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING SREIS February 29, 2016 Page 4 Keeping track of our goals and progress is another commitment made under the Environment Strategy. Annual progress updates will be provided to Council and an Environmental Scorecard will be released every five years prior to the Environment Strategy's five-year review. The Environmental Scorecard will track a focused set of indicators (such as energy use, water use, etc.). The scorecard framework is currently being developed with the first phase of reporting to be released in Highlights What Richmond Hill has done to become a more Sustainable Community Implementation of the Environment Strategy will be carried out in three phases (short, medium and long-term actions) marked the first full year of implementation and staff are currently focusing on Phase 1, short-term and ongoing actions. A progress chart for Phase 1 actions was developed to identify milestone achievements in 2015 based on the collective efforts of all departments in the Town (see Attachment 2 for details). This progress chart will be updated annually and reported to Council each year. Highlights of Environment Strategy actions implemented in 2015 are provided in the following sections. Air Quality Initiatives Air quality affects everyone in Richmond Hill. The air we breathe has an impact on our health and quality of life. Many of the practices that create air pollution such as energy use and transportation also create greenhouse gases which have been linked to climate change. By promoting policies and taking actions related to sustainable energy and transportation use, Richmond Hill has the ability to influence local air quality and reduce air pollutants at their source. Sustainable Energy: CDM Plan, Detailed Energy Audits and Phase 1 of LED Streetlight Conversion Using energy in a sustainable way helps us lower energy consumption and costs, improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Town's Energy Conservation and Demand Management (CDM) Plan is a five-year energy reduction plan for Town facilities. In 2015, a working group was established to implement a range of recommendations, including a Terms of Reference to undertake detailed energy audits of the Town's top 13 facilities in Consistent with our corporate energy efficiency goals, Phase 1 of the LED Streetlight Conversion Project included an evaluation of lighting technology, an update to the Town's lighting standards, a GIS map inventory of outdoor lighting assets, and a costsavings analysis. The resulting proposal and Phase 2 budget to convert the Town's outdoor lighting network to LED was approved in 2015.

5 TOWN OF RICHMOND HILL- COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING SREIS February 29, 2016 Page 5 Other sustainable energy projects last year included endorsement of three applications to install solar energy at private facilities under the Province's Feed-in-Tariff (FIT) program and updates to promote energy efficiency in Town equipment and procedures. Sustainable Transportation: Expanding the Pedestrian & Cycling Network and Investing in the Lake-to-Lake Route Sustainable transportation options can help us lower vehicle emissions, which in turn improves air quality and reduces greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change. Calling for facilities, infrastructure and development that support active transportation, public transit, car pools and electric vehicles (alternative fuels) provides better options for the community to get from one place to the next. For instance, in 2015, staff continued to advance the Pedestrian & Cycling Master Plan which outlines a network for walking and cycling routes in Richmond Hill. Trail upgrade projects were completed for Beaver Greenway (2.4 km) and South Richvale Greenway (1.5 km) and a field-truthing study was undertaken to assess the feasibility of future off-road cycling trails. The Town also initiated work on the Richmond Hill portion of the Lake-to-Lake multi-use trail, a regional initiative to provide an off-road pedestrian and cycling path connecting Lake Ontario to Lake Simcoe. Staff began design work for Phase 1 (along Leslie Street between Highway 7 to just north of 16 th Avenue) and submitted funding applications to York Region and the Province. York Region has confirmed its commitment to shared funding, design alignment and coordination which will be outlined in a pending Memorandum of Understanding. Other sustainable transportation initiatives in 2015 included: promoting the Town's Smart Commute partnership, carpool program and related tools (particularly during the Pan Am Games); and providing Bike Valet service at popular Mill Pond events with the help of community volunteers. Water Resource Initiatives Richmond Hill streams and rivers support a wide variety of plants, animals and fish. During large rainstorms, our waterways move runoff away from developed communities and help reduce the risk of flooding. Rising temperatures, changing weather patterns, and pollution from human activities all impact local water supplies. We can preserve Richmond Hill's water resources by protecting our lakes, rivers, and streams and by using water wisely. Watershed Stormwater and Groundwater: Rehabilitation of Key Storm Ponds and Valleylands, new Management Approaches Urbanization increases the amount of water and pollutants that run off hard surfaces, increasing the potential for flood damage, erosion and pollution of our streams, rivers, lakes and wetlands. Managing our water resources helps us reduce the effects of development on our water supplies and increases the resiliency of our waterways. 021

6 TOWN OF RICHMOND HILL - COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING SREIS February 29, 2016 Page 6 In 2015, Council approved the Town's Valleyland Capital Works Prioritization Plan, which identifies priority areas of erosion where Town infrastructure is at risk and repair is needed. Critical and high priority areas (e.g. Mill Pond) were added to the Ten Year Stormwater Management Capital Plan and projects were advanced for Elgin Mills Greenway, Beaver Creek, Ashfield Drive, and Harding Park. A project to improve Richmond Hill's stormwater management program was also initiated in 2015, specifically, the completion of a stormwater infrastructure maintenance plan (pond sediment removal plan). This will better protect communities from flooding and erosion by keeping track of sediment accumulation in our ponds and removing it at key intervals to maintain available storage volume, and also extend the life of the infrastructure thereby deferring the need for more significant restoration work. As part of protecting our sensitive water resources on the Oak Ridges Moraine, the Town continued monitoring under the Lake Wilcox Remediation Strategy and began a review of the Source Water Protection Plan to identify required actions for Richmond Hill. Land Resource Initiatives The Environment Strategy tells us that building healthy communities means managing growth and development while respecting our natural resources. With increasing development pressures, it is important that our municipal practices consider the conservation, stewardship and restoration of natural areas. In Richmond Hill, this means exploring opportunities to enhance and restore our land-based features through sustainable land development, natural environment management, sustainable urban agriculture and solid waste management. Sustainable Land Development: - Monitoring of Sustainability Metrics Uptake through Development and Updates to Standards & Specifications Sustainable land development (i.e. green development practices, design and infrastructure) helps us minimize development impacts to the environment while addressing the needs of a growing community. As Richmond Hill's population continues to grow, our natural environment is placed under greater development pressure and stress. Richmond Hill's Sustainability Metrics is a planning tool, created with partner municipalities, to encourage sustainable features in new development. Not only can sustainable design features lessen impacts on the environment (e.g. a green roof can reduce energy required for heating and cooling), but they also enable development to better adapt and withstand the impacts of climate change (e.g. stormwater retention on a green roof). In 2015, a monitoring component was established to keep track of uptake for the Sustainability Metrics through the development process. 022 Several actions in the Environment Strategy relate to updating the Town's Standards and Specifications Manual so that design and construction of new development (public or private) reflects Richmond Hill's environmental objectives and the sustainable design policies of the Official Plan (OP). A review of those actions and the Town's

7 TOWN OF RICHMOND HILL - COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING SREIS February 29, 2016 Page 7 Sustainability Metrics identified priority standards to be updated over the next several years, e.g. cycling paths; LED lighting; three-stream waste in high-rise development; stormwater management on site; and soil standards for tree survival. Other sustainable land development initiatives in 2015 included: ongoing advocacy for green infrastructure through Town participation in the Clean Air Council of the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area; advocacy through comments to the Province on their climate change strategy and integrated land use plans; and participation in the Lake Wilcox Sustainable Neighbourhood Action Plan (SNAP) pilot project with the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA). Natural Environment: EAB Management, Community Stewardship Program and Wildlife Management Healthy, diverse local ecosystems are more resilient to stress and provide benefits that improve our quality of life. Trees and a connected greenway system contribute to cleaner air and water, wildlife habitat, opportunities for outdoor recreation, flood control and mitigation of the urban heat island effect. Richmond Hill's experience with invasive species (e.g. Emerald Ash Borer) and the 2013 ice storm revealed how sensitive our natural environment can be and the importance of our urban forest to our residents. In 2015, the Town continued to implement the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) Management Strategy to address the negative impacts of this invasive species through the removal of hazardous trees and replanting efforts. Tree planting guidelines are also underway; these support planting a diversity of tree species that will make our future urban forest more robust. Ongoing restoration and tree planting efforts were carried out in 2015 through the Town's annual Community Stewardship Program and Healthy Yards Program. With the help of funding partners/sponsors and community volunteers, 11,600 trees were planted in Richmond Hill and 78,600 m 2 were restored. Early background research and a Terms of Reference to undertake an Urban Forest Management Plan was also completed. This plan, to be initiated in 2016, will define Richmond Hill's urban forest goals and guide management of the Town's woodlots and trees. Richmond Hill continues to manage wildlife populations, as interactions between people and wildlife increase. Initiatives such as the Goose Management Strategy and the Beaver Management Strategy are implemented annually to ensure we are compliant with legislation and manage wildlife humanely while protecting roads and infrastructure from flooding. Educational material and signs were also created in 2015 to increase awareness about coyotes and to discourage wildlife feeding. Sustainable Urban Agriculture and Local Food Production: Garden Policy Initiated, Healthy Yards Program Expanded to Include Edible Plants Growing food in our community is healthy for residents and the environment such alternatives are often grown without pesticides and cut down on emissions and costs from the long-distance transport of food. As directed by the Parks Plan and identified in the Environment Strategy, a community garden policy has been initiated to prgvide U Z.

8 TOWN OF RICHMOND HILL - COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING SREIS, February 29, 2016 Page 8 framework and guidelines for developing future gardens across the Town. The incorporation of edible plants in the Healthy Yards Program was also introduced as a pilot in 2015 and will continue to be evaluated in Waste Management: Service Level Review in Preparation for the New Waste Contract Finally, reducing waste and diverting garbage from landfill helps us protect our environment and save money. The transport of waste leads to increased traffic congestion and vehicle emissions and its disposal to landfill increases the risk of soil and groundwater contamination. The Town's Waste Contract Review is a significant project, initiated in 2015, that examines waste collection service levels in preparation for the renewal of the Town's waste collection contract. As part of the review, staff conducted benchmarking and a preliminary cost benefit analysis to compare 'manual' versus 'automated' waste collection. A service level workshop was held to confirm direction from Council and senior management. Other waste management projects in 2015 included: the development of a standard for waste management in Town facilities and installation of standardized three-stream containers; the annual waste audit of the Town's municipal office as per Provincial regulation; and pilot projects that introduced recycling containers in parks and at super mailboxes. Next Steps In 2016, support for implementation of Phase 1 Actions under the Environment Strategy will continue with direction from the inter-departmental Steering Committee. Notable projects anticipated for 2016 include: detailed energy audits of the top 13 energy consuming Town facilities; conversion of the Town's outdoor lighting network to LED; Urban Forest Management Plan; woodlot restoration plans for David Dunlop Observatory and Beaver Woodland sites; Community Garden Policy; Pond and Valleyland Rehabilitation projects; update to the Salt Management Plan; Waste Collection Contract Review (public consultation, RFI and service level analysis); and the Environmental Scorecard Framework. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM Background 024 The Town's Environmental Management System (EMS) is an environmental performance management system that helps the Town identify how its corporate activities impact the environment and implement controls and improvements. Richmond Hill's EMS is based on the ISO 14001:2004 International Standard for establishing and maintaining these management systems. It provides a continual improvement process (i.e. Plan, Do, Check, Act) that enables staff to identify environmental impacts resulting from our activities, implement controls through our procedures and practices, conduct

9 TOWN OF RICHMOND HILL - COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING SREIS, February 29, 2016 Page 9 routine checks on our environmental performance, and report findings and recommendations for improvement. Maintaining an EMS certification helps the Town meet its environmental obligations as a municipal corporation. By exercising due diligence in conforming to environmental legislation, the Town is able to reduce environmental risk and liability. The EMS also enhances our public image demonstrating our commitment to corporate environmental stewardship. Furthermore, the EMS challenges the Town to be leaders in sustainability by initiating our own environmental improvements; as a result the Town has taken steps to prevent pollution and conserve our resources, incidentally, preparing the Town to meet new and more stringent environmental controls and targets being set by the Province (i.e. climate change strategy). Highlights of EMS ( ) Since receiving certification in 2006, the EMS has grown to include all business units with significant environmental impacts, placing Richmond Hill at the forefront of municipal environmental management systems in Ontario. Within the Province, regional municipalities tend to limit their EMS scope to water, wastewater and/or waste management programs, while single-tier or lower-tier municipalities focus on their fleet operations. Over the last three years, the Town has continued to maintain and expand its EMS scope to include functions ranging from parks, water and road operations to fire services, community events, environmental initiatives, Town facilities and development engineering. Among Canadian municipalities with an EMS, only Calgary and Edmonton had EMS scopes comparable or larger than Richmond Hill. EMS Expansion The scope of Richmond Hill's EMS was reviewed several years ago to determine the departments and/or specific divisions with the most direct environmental impacts. In addition to the previously registered divisions, three other divisions were identified for inclusion in the program: Fire and Emergency Services; Parks Operations; and Recreation and Culture. To be included in the certification, each division must identify the environmental impacts of their work; undergo a legal compliance review; conduct a gap analysis; identify opportunities for improvement; develop and implement new or updated controls; and pass both internal and external certification audits. In 2013, Fire and Emergency Services completed the ISO certification process and was added to the Town's EMS certificate. Waste diversion was a notable improvement resulting from this expansion. By adding curbside pick-up and an organic waste diversion program to the fire stations, approximately 54 tonnes of waste per year has been diverted from landfill. In 2014 and 2015, Parks Operations became part of the Public Works Operations Division and was registered under the ISO certification process. Notable improvements related to this expansion include the introduction of the parks repycling n U

10 TOWN OF RICHMOND HILL - COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING SREIS February 29, 2016 Page 10 project and a review of environmental controls (e.g. efficient route planning, safe fuel handling for equipment to minimize spills) in standard operating procedures and work instructions. In 2015, the Recreation and Culture Division began its certification process and will be completing the final stages prior to certification in fall A notable improvement from this expansion includes the development of user-friendly Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to guide three-stream waste collection at facilities by staff and cleaning contractors. Planned energy audits at facilities will also be carried out in the future to identify energy saving opportunities related to equipment, lighting and operating practices. Program Improvements A major benefit of the EMS is that it helps to identify opportunities for environmental improvement within specific divisions but also across the corporation. Perhaps the most significant improvement resulting from the EMS has been our ability to assess the environmental legal compliance of our operations among the registered divisions. By conducting a regular review of environmental legislation that applies to Town operations, and through facility audits conducted under the EMS, the Town has improved many practices, demonstrating due diligence in complying with changing statutory requirements. The EMS has also improved the Town's ability to exercise environmental controls. The updated Centralized Spill Response Process for the Town is an example of a crossdepartment initiative that was identified through the EMS. By establishing a single call number during business hours, creating a streamlined process for directing and responding to spills, and providing a central database to track spills and reports to the Ministry of Environment, the procedure ensures that the Town meets its obligations under the Environmental Protection Act by responding to spills effectively and efficiently. Through quarterly management meetings, training, audits and legal review updates, the Town's registered divisions continue to improve their environmental performance by addressing identified gaps and finding opportunities for improvement. Re-certification in 2015 On October 15, 2015 the Town of Richmond Hill successfully completed its 3 rd reregistration audit for its ISO Environmental Management System (see Attachment 3 ISO certificate). To be registered under the ISO standard, an organization must be certified by a third-party registrar that sends an auditor to conduct annual conformance audits. 026 The 2015 audit resulted in zero "non-conformances" and four "opportunities for improvement''. The auditor noted that Richmond Hill's "EMS is well implemented and...has a good approach to integrating environmental objectives with overall operations". Key strengths of Richmond Hill's EMS noted by the auditor include: a wellestablished system with participation and cooperation between departments, and a

11 TOWN OF RICHMOND HILL - COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING SREIS February 29, 2016 Page 11 visible commitment to implementing the Environment Strategy with evidence of improving environmental performance through projects, facilities and services. Next Steps Over the next three years the Town will incorporate Recreation & Culture into the EMS scope; conduct a legal compliance audit to confirm statutory requirements are being met; review the recently updated ISO standard and assess any gaps; and update EMS procedures and staff training to implement the new standard. Staff will continue to consider and implement recommendations from the yearly audits and gap analysis in order to meet the registration deadline under the new standard in FINANCIAL/STAFFING/OTHER IMPLICATIONS: There are no financial or staffing implications as a result of this report. RELATIONSHIP TO THE STRATEGIC PLAN: The Environment Strategy and EMS are aligned with the Town's Strategic Plan by providing: Stronger Connections in Richmond Hill: These initiatives support the improvement of connections in our built and natural environment (e.g. trails, bike lanes, natural corridors and greenspaces) and provide opportunities for people (within the corporation and within the community) to get involved and participate in making improvements for the environment. Better Choice in Richmond Hill: These initiatives promote better options to move around, live, work and do business by implementing actions that support a more sustainable urban environment (e.g. infrastructure and facilities to support cycling, walking, carpooling and electric vehicles; low impact development techniques; sustainable design standards; pilot studies/demonstration projects). A More Vibrant Richmond Hill: These initiatives contribute to a sense of identity and place by creating opportunities for people to experience the Town's natural environment (e.g. actions related to restoring, protecting or enhancing the Town's natural heritage and stewardship programs for people to get involved). They also help the Town look to the future by initiating environmental improvements through corporate leadership, collaboration, innovation and the exchange of ideas. Wise Management of Resources: These initiatives result in less waste (e.g. energy and water efficiency improvements in facilities and vehicles, and waste diversion) and help to protect and enhance our environment (e.g. actions to improve the health of our natural heritage and water resource systems). 027

12 TOWN OF RICHMOND HILL - COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING SREIS February 29, 2016 Page 12 CONCLUSION: This staff report provides an update on the Town's two major environmental initiatives: the Environment Strategy, Greening the Hill: Our Community, Our Future; and the ISO 14001:2004 registered Environmental Management System. As a local government and municipal corporation, the Town has an obligation to help manage the community's impacts on the environment as well as demonstrate leadership in corporate environmental stewardship through our own business functions. These initiatives enable the Town to meet its commitments, as set out in Richmond Hill's Environmental Policy, to become a more environmentally sustainable community. ATTACHMENTS Attachment 1: Richmond Hill Environmental Policy Attachment 2: Richmond Hill Environment Strategy Progress Chart for Phase 1 Actions in 2015 Attachment 3: Richmond Hill ISO Certificate, dated October 30,

13 SREIS Attachment 1: Richmond Hill Environmental Policy 029

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15 Environmental Policy Wnlofterli II,00w4. RichmondHill.ca/Environment Our Vision Richmond Hill: a community that protects, enhances and restores its natural environment. Our Mission To become a more environmentally sustainable community; to protect, enhance and restore Richmond Hill's natural environment through responsible community development, sound municipal management and community programming Our Commitment Richmond Hill and its community are strongly committed to protecting the environment. The Town commits to pollution prevention and continual improvement through our Environmental Management System, together with our Environment Strategy, Greening the Hill: Our Community Our Future. The Town further commits to act in good faith in complying with all applicable legal and other requirements to which our organization subscribes. To become a more sustainable community, the Town is committed to: managing our impacts on air quality, collaborating through partnerships; water resources and land resources: supporting the development of connected communities; and reporting our progress towards reaching our goals. fostering education and outreach; Recognizing that sustainability is an evolving process that improves the environment, the economy and society for the benefit of current and future generations, the Town is committed to balancing the public's health and safety and economic interests when acting upon its environmental commitments. Nell Garbe Chief Administrative Officer f GREENING THE HILL Our Community Our Future

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17 SREIS Attachment 2: Richmond Hill Environment Strategy Progress Chart for Phase 1 Actions in

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19 SREIS Environment Strategy rand EMS Lipdote (2015} Staff Report - Attachment Progress Chart for Richmond Hill Environment Strategy Phase 1 Actions Time Frame Project Status ACTION Ongoing Action Underway Complete Milestone Achievements AIR Sustainable Energy Goals El Investigate the opportunities and feasibility of implementing district heating or cooling systems in the Secondary Plan areas, in conjunction with the Town wide V. V V N/A Community Energy Plan identified in action E2. E2 Initiate a Town wide Community Energy Plan based on the recommendations of the N/A Urban Master Environmental Servicing Plan (Urban MEW) and in keeping with the Town's commitments under the Partners for Climate Protection program (Federation of Canadian Municipalities). V. V E3 Develop a Community Energy Plan for the Richmond Hill N/A Centre. V V. V E4 ES Develop and implement an Energy Conservation and Demand Management Plan (CDM) for Town facilities, updated every five years. Report energy consumption and GHG emissions annually. V V V V V Report corporate (and community) greenhouse gas emissions in partnership with the V (Implementati on) V (CDM Plan) CDM Plan approved by Council in Energy working group establjshed, Terms of Reference developed for detailed energy audits, and projects initiated (e.g. equipment lifecycie replacement energy efficiency procedures). Corporate GHG emissions report underway. Community GHG Partners for Climate Protection (PCP) every five years in conjunction with CDM reporting. V. V v't emissions report submitted and PCM recognition received for completion of all five milestones under the Community (Corporate) (Community) Partners for Climate Change Program. E7 Actively research, promote, and pilot sustainable energy opportunities through Conversion of Outdoor Lighting Network to LED approved and demonstration projects and technological innovations. V V V. V V V underway. Three FIT applications endorsed. Sustainable Transportation Goals PCMP Implementation of POMP and prep work for future update. Completed trail upgrades to Beaver Greenway (2.4 km) and V V 1r/ V V V. South Richvale Greenway (1.1 km). Field-truthing of proposed off-road components completed. Ti Advocate to the Region and Province for public transit as a primary mode of transportation available to residents and commuters. V V" V. V V Si" Scoping discussions initiated. Advocacy for the extension of the Yonge Subway to Richmond Hill Centre continues at every opportunity.

20 SREIS.16,007 Environment Strategy and EMS Update (2015)Staff Report - Attachment 2 NH Progress Chart for Richmond Hill Environment Strategy Phase 1 Actions Time Frame Project Status ACTION Ongoing Action Underway Complete Milestone Achievements 13 T WM3 Develop and/or update pedestrian and cycling facility design standards as needed to provide for convenient and safe active transportation ( v'i V Implement pedestrian and cycling facility design standards through the planning approval process. Continue to provide education and outreach to promote and encourage active and healthy transportation options. Actively research, promote, and pilot sustainable and active transportation opportunities through demonstration projects/programs and technological innovations. WATER RESOURCES..,... _. 4 Pursue a variety of funding strategies and partnerships to preserve municipal resources for implementation of water resources stream and river rehabilitation projects. V V VI vi vf vi V/ V V V V. N/ V' V V Vi V V. V Draft standards prepared and currently under review by Standards and Specifications Executive Committee, N/A Education and outreach programs implemented (e.g. new Smart Commute tool, update to carpool program to include non-town staff passengers, Bike Valet program with support from community volunteers). Electric vehicle charge station protocol established; upgrades to design and signage installed. Ongoing annual monitoring of reserve funds, available grants, and opportunities for funding partnerships. Project profiles developed for potential projects in the Valleyland Capital Rehabilitation project. A multi-year funding strategy will be developed for select projects. WM4 Develop and implement a Watercourse (Valieyland) Restoration Plan to address priority areas of erosion, restoration and required capital work throughout the valleyland system../ v/ Vi V V. 1/7 (Implernentati on) Vi. (Valleyland Plan) Valleyland Capital Works Prioritization Plan approved by Council in Currently implementing recommendations (e.g. Elgin Mills Greenway). WM5 Continue to work with existing partners on stream restoration projects and seek additional new partners for future projects through the Community Stewardship Program. V V V V V V Existing partnerships continued in , Surface and Stormwater Quality and Quantity Goals: SWM2 Implement Storrnwater Management Rate Program / tel 17 5/ v/ / Rate increase adopted by Council,a 2n :5 2

21 . SRE1S Environment Strategy and EMS Update 12015) Staff Report - Attachment Progress Chart for Richmond Hill Environment Strategy Phase 1 Actions Time Frame Project Status ACTION Ongoing Action Underway Complete Milestone Achievements SWM3 Implement Richmond Hill's Stormwater Management 19 Year Capital Plan to rehabilitate existing stormwater facilities; re-prioritize needs and re-establish the 10 Year Plan as required. V V V V V V SWM 10 Year Capital Plan reviewed and updated to include valleylands and Mill Pond as a prioritized need. Other pri*cts included: Harding Park East Pond construction; Ashfield Drive Pond design; Beaver Creek Pond feasibility study; Elgin West Pond and Greenway Restoration study; and Rumble Pond monitoring and reporting. SWM4 Develop and implement a stormwater infrastructure maintenance program. V. V V V Review initiated in SWM5 Continue to deliver storrnwater facility monitoring and inspection program; update program and define roles/responsibilities to ensure Richmond Hill operates stormwater facilities in compliance with Environmental Compliance Approvals. V V V V.17 V Monitoring program being reviewed. SWAM Update Richmond Hill's Stormwater Management Design Standards. V V 7 V Discussions initiated, benchmarking underway. SWM7 SWM8 Implement the Lake Wilcox Remediation Strategy; monitor measure and report results of implementation. V V V V V V Continue to implement the watercourse monitoring program and reassess the _grogram with assistance from outside asencies. V v V V V..7 Groundwater imm; Recharge and Discharge Goals "- '''' ',- Ongoing implementation of Lake Wilcox Remediation Strategy recommendations based on priorities identified. Monitoring program continued. Review initiated in WA/1 Identify strategic actions in the Credit Valley, Toronto and Regional and Central Lake Ontario (CTC) Source Protection Plan that, once approved, are the responsibility of Richmond Hill in partnership with York Region and implement accordingly. V V V Review of CTC Source Protection Plan complete and strategic actions identified. GW2 Update the Town Salt Management Plan; in addition assess non-salt alternatives for Lake Wilcox area; monitor performance; work with York Region to share and adopt best salt management practices and non-salt alternatives. V- V V V V V Update to Salt Management Plan underway, including research into non-salt alternatives for Lake Wilcox area. Water Conservation. Goals7 TWIIRR''',.,..,.. LAND RESOURCES ::- Sustainable land Development Goals

22 OC) 511E Environment Strategy and EMS Update (20.15) Staff Report - Attachment Progress Chart for Richmond Hill Environment Strategy Phase 1. Actions Time Frame Project Status ACTION Ongoing Action Underway Complete Milestone Achievements LDI Create and/or update Town-wide standards and specifications such as the Materials, Standards and Specifications Manual, and sustainable parks, trails, and open space standards, etc. to reflect the policies of the Official Plan. V V V V V 'of' Priority standard updates identified based on Sustainabillty Metrics & Envt Strategy actions with similar objectives (e.g. cycling facilities/15; efficient outdoor lighting/led study E7; three-stream waste in multi-res/sw1; swm or) site/swm5; soil volume for tree hea ith/ne3). L02 Develop a monitoring tool for the Sustainabiky Metrics to help measure performance. V V V V V V (potential to quantify V/ (uptake tool) Monitoring tool for uptake developed. Discussions to quantify select metrics to be explored with partner municipalities in metrics) L04 Link the findings of the Urban MESP to valleyland studies and restoration plans. V V V V V (Valleyland) Valleyland Study completed In 2015, linkages incorporated. MESP findings lobe linked to restoration plans once Urban Forest Management Plan is complete. LD11 Play an advocacy role with the Federal and Provincial Governments along with agencies such as Association of Municipalities Ontario (AMO) to provide funding for green infrastructure. v.- V V V V V Continued support for green infrastructure provided through comments on provincial legislation (e.g. CA Act, Municipal Act, Climate Change Strategy) LD I4 Ensure that flood conveyance remediation projects incorporate ecological improvements to associated valleylands. Support TRCA's existing pilot Sustainable Neighbourhood Action Plan at Lake Wilcox, and investigate working with partners to expand the program to include other V( V 1/ to( vf../ V V V N/A Lake Wilcox SNAP pilot complete and expansion discussions initiated with TRCA. Richmond Hill neighbourhoods_ Natural Environment Management Goals P NE2 Develop an Urban Forest Management Plan to protect, maintain and enhance the Working group initiated and Terms of Reference underway. urban forest. (Note: this initiative will be of particular importance in the wake of EA8; it could be combined with the restoration planning and implementation efforts for v." V V V CAB already underway). NH NE6 Update standards and specifications to better protect mature tree health and growth, giving consideration to soils standards. Develop a biological indicator species monitoring and inventory program that will V V. N/A Benchmarking to identify program goals and objectives provide information to assist in the planning and prioritization of restoration projects, currently underway. the management of invasive species and wildlife, and the maintenance of natural V V V V V heritage features. Make best use of data provided through developers. NE] Develop a single database/application for street trees and open spaces trees for use by multiple departments.,... V V vi V Development of Phase 1 of single tree asset database underway. 4

23 59015, Environment Strategy and EMS Update (2015) Staff Report - Attachment Progress Chart for Richmond Hill Environment Strategy Phase 1 Actions Time Frame Project StatuS ACTION Ongoing Action Underway Complete Milestone Achievements NE9 Continue to provide the Community Stewardship Program as a means to undertake restoration activities on Town and by strengthening existing partnerships and developing ways to encourage new restoration, enhancement and education partnerships. V ( V V V V 2016 Community Stewardship Program: 11,600 trees and shrubs planted, 350 wildflowers planted, 38 partner-led events, 4 partner-lead workshops, 4 Town-led community tree planting events, 78,600 m' restored, 18 outreach events attended. 1 new partnership (TRCA's Conservation Youth Corps Program) with a value of $22,800. Currently exploring a new partnership with LEAF for NE10 Continue to offer the Healthy Yards Program as a means to improve biodiversity and increase tree cover on private lands. V V V V V V Continued implementation of Healthy Yards program (e.g wildflowers, 1300 trees and shrubs, and 135 rain barrels sold). Invasive Species Management Goals ,...._ Continue to implement the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) Management Strategy. Continue to promote and implement the use of a diversity of native plant species on Town land, V'' ' Ilf Ifi vi Vi v/ V V V V V V Pesticide application, hazard tree removal and replacement tree planting continued in Tree Planting Guidelines developed to further promote a diversity of tree species and more robust urban tree canopy incorporating lessons learned from the Town's experience with the Emerald Ash Sorer and the 2013 ice storm. Benefits of native plant species promoted through outreach, 157 Collaborate and partner with York Region, neighboring municipalities, Conservation Authorities and other crossboundary stakeholders to manage invasive species. V V../.. V V V Continued participation in cross-jurisdictional work on invasive species management with York Region and the Ontario Invasive Plant Council _. W2 Develop Community Education and Outreach programs for invasive species and native plant species. _ Wildlife Management Goals Re-evaluate existing by-laws that address wildlife feeding. v/ %,/ ref N/A N/A W5 W6 W7..,, Continue to support and implement the Canada Goose Management Strategy and Beaver Management Policy. Define the Town response to, as well as roles and responsibilities for individual species that significantly impact the Town. Develop education methods to improve the public's understanding of wildlife interactions and the benefits of living in a biodiverse community. Provide this information through various channels (Environment, By-law, Communicalions) V V V V V V V V V V Ongoing Canada Goose/Beaver monitoring and management. N/A N/A 5

24 SRE Environment Strategy and EMS Update (2Q15) Staff Report Attachment Progress Chart for Richmond Hill Environment Strategy Phase 1 Actions Time Frame Project Status ACTION Ongoing Action Underway Complete Milestone Achievements Sustainable Urban Agriculture and Local Food Production Goals Comm Community Garden policy as per Parks Plan unity Garden V / V V Background research initiated. LF5 Evaluate the feasibility of developing an urban food kit as part of the Healthy Yards Program. V ii/ V Edible plants incorporated into 2015 Healthy Yards Program. Evaluation of pilot currently underway. SW1 5W5..,.. Solid Waste Management Goals Develop building design criteria requiring new multi-uniit residential, IC&I, and mixed- use developments to incorporate source-separated waste collection in building design, and to participate in source-separation programs. Develop end implement a Town sustainable procurement policy. V V/ V V V V V V Development of draft standards underway, outcome dependent on finalization of waste contract. N/A SVV4 SW5 Conduct annual waste audits of municipal facilities greater than 10,000 square meters and Implement waste reduction work plans and source separation programs for these facilities. Establish and implement service levels for diversion programs in public areas. V V V V V V V V V V 2015 waste audit completed and report to Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MOECC) developed. Standardized waste management containers distributed to Town facilities. Draft standard operating procedures (SOPs) underway. SW6 sw7 Collaborate with York Region and local municipalities to share innovations and achieve region-wide waste reduction and diversion goals. Actively research, promote, and pilot waste management opportunities through demonstration projects and technological innovations, v/ V V V V V V V V / vi V Audits to help inform multi-residential waste collection completed in Implementation of waste management pilot projects (e.g. Bin Lid, Parks Recycling, and Super Mailboxes) complete and evaluation of pilots currently underway. SW10 Develop and implement approaches for three-stream waste separation at large community events, starting with Town sponsored events and progressing to private events held at Town facilities. V vii / Of 5-stream waste diversion pilot project for special events complete and benchmarking and evaluation of pilot currently underway. 6

25 SREIS Attachment 3: Richmond Hill ISO Certificate, dated October 30,

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27 p81116 lo 1SR - *"."0 1siSF (01 Certificate of Registration This certifies that the Environmental Management System of Town of Richmond Hill 225 East Beaver Creek Road Richmond Hill, Ontario, L4B 3P4, Canada has been assessed by NSF-TSR and found to be in conformance to the following standard(s): ISO 14001:2004 Scope of Registration: The Provision of Water Distribution, Wastewater Collection, Storm-Water Collection and Management, Roads, Parks and Open Space Maintenance and Operations, Solid Waste Management, Fire and Emergency Services, Buildings and Fleet Management, Capital Works, Development and Transportation Review, Environmental Programs, and Department Administration. Subscopes to read: 1-Environment and Infrastructure Services Scope: Design and Construction of Capital Projects (Roads, Water and Wastewater Infrastructure, Parks and Buildings), Buildings/Facilities Maintenance and Operations, Environmental Services and Departmental Administrations. 2 - Community Services Scope; a. Public Works Operations Maintenance and Operations Services for Roads, Parks and Open Spaces, Water Distribution System, and Wastewater Collection System; Household Waste Collection and Fleet and Traffic Operations. b. Fire and Emergency Service, Fire Suppression, Prevention, Training and Communication (Dispatch). 3 - Planning and Regulatory Services (Development Engineering) Scope: Transportation and Planning Services, Development Engineering and Infrastructure. ACCREDITED MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS CERTFICATION BODY Certificate Number: Certificate Issue Date: C EM4 30-OCT-2015 Registration Date: 29-OCT-2015 Carl Blazik, Expiration Date *: 14-SEP-2018 Director, Technical Operations & Business Units, NSF International Strategic Registrations NSF-TSR, Ltd. 789 North Dixboro Road, Ann Arbor, Michigan (888) NSF-9000 I Page 1 of 2 Authoiized Registration and!or Accreditation Marks. This cenificate is property of NSF-ISR and must be returned upon request..company is audited for confomuince at regular intervals. To verify registrations call (388) NSF-9000 or ViSirt our web silt at