HomeMy WebLinkAboutPDS-034-21Clarington
Public Meeting Report
If this information is required in an alternate accessible format, please contact the Accessibility
Coordinator at 905-623-3379 ext. 2131.
Report To: Planning and Development Committee By-law #: 2021-055
Date of Meeting: June 7, 2021 Report Number: PDS-034-21
Submitted By: Ryan Windle, Director of Planning and Development Services
File Number: PLN 37.6 Resolution#: PD-185-21
Report Subject: Proposed Amendment to the COVID-19 Community
Improvement Plan (CIP); PLN 37.6
Recommendations:
1. That Report PDS-034-21 be received;
2. That staff receive and consider comments from the public and Council with respect
to the Draft Revised COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan;
3. That provided there are no substantial objections from the public, or further
substantial modifications required, the Draft Revised COVID-19 Community
Improvement Plan be approved, and a by-law to adopt it be passed at the June 14
Council meeting;
4. That a Program -Specific Criteria be added to the Adaptation to Outdoor Operation
Grant to exempt applications for the Seasonal Sidewalk Patio License Fee from the
Means Test Criteria; and
5. That all interested parties listed in Report PDS-034-21 and any delegations be
advised of Council's decision.
Municipality of Clarington
Report PDS-034-21
Report Overview
Page 2
Council approved the COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan (CIP) in October 2020 to
support Clarington's local businesses with the cost of physical improvements necessary to
implement COVID-19-related health and safety requirements.
In accordance with the COVID-19 CIP's Monitoring and Evaluation Strategy, staff have
undertaken a review of the implementation to date to assess whether the Plan is fulfilling its
purpose.
Modifications are proposed to the COVID-19 CIP based upon feedback from local
businesses, staff's experience with the implementation and administration of the COVID-19
CIP to date, Council feedback, and the ongoing and evolving nature of the pandemic.
The purpose of this report is to present the proposed amendment to the COVID-19 CIP and
to receive input from members of Council and the public at the Statutory Public Meeting.
1. Background
COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan
1.1 On June 22, 2020, Council passed the recommendations of Report GGR-010-20
directing that (i) a Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan (CIP) be drafted,
and (ii) a $1,000,000 fund be allocated for improvements as set forth in the staff report
FND-018-20 to qualifying businesses.
1.2 Council approved Clarington's COVID-19 CIP on October 13, 2020 (PSD-040-20).
1.3 The COVID-19 CIP came into effect in November 2020 at which time staff began
processing grant applications, and executed the Communications Strategy in
collaboration with the Clarington Board of Trade (CBOT).
1.4 Staff have been monitoring the effectiveness of the Plan and the Financial Incentive
Programs throughout the early days of implementation in accordance with Council's
direction and the CIP's Monitoring and Evaluation Strategy.
1.5 To date, 22 applications have been received under the COVID-19 CIP. Of those
applications, only four businesses have successfully satisfied the General Eligibility and
Means Test Criteria, and been approved for grant funding. Grants approved to date total
$17,600, for an average grant of $4,400 per business. This leaves a total of $982,400 in
the COVID-19 CIP fund, plus the additional funding that was not expended on Tax
Deferral Program.
Municipality of Clarington
Report PDS-034-21
Page 3
Direction from February 22, 2021 Planning and Development Committee Meeting
1.6 On February 22, 2021, staff presented a Memo to Council (i) to provide an update on
the implementation of the CIP through the first three months (ii) to report on grant
application activity associated with the three-month intake window for applications in the
Completed Projects stream, which closed February 11, 2021, and (iii) to seek direction
on whether to consider an amendment to the CIP to address the lessons learned from
the early days of implementation. The Memo is included as Attachment 1 to this report.
1.7 On February 22, 2021, Council directed staff to commence the process to amend the
COVID-19 CIP in accordance with the Planning Act, and schedule a Statutory Public
Meeting to receive input on the proposed modifications.
Amending the COVID-19 CIP
1.8 In accordance with Section 5.2 (Adjustments and Amendments to this Plan) of the
COVID-19 CIP, modifications or changes to the vision and goals, General Eligibility or
Means Test Criteria require a formal amendment as per the requirements of the
Planning Act. The CIP amendment process includes a Statutory Public Meeting, and a
20-day appeal period. Such modifications are outlined in Section 6 of this report.
1.9 Notwithstanding the above, the CIP provides that the Municipality may review and/or
adjust the requirements of any of the Financial Incentive Programs without amendment
to the Plan. Subsection 6.5 outlines proposed changes to the Financial Incentive
Programs.
2. Policy Overview
Durham Region Official Plan
2.1 The Durham Region Official Plan (ROP) contains policies on CIPs. The ROP specifies
that the Region may assist in the implementation of area municipal CIPs by adopting a
Regional Revitalization Program that will guide how the Region may participate
financially, or otherwise, in area municipal CIPs. The Region's participation in the
implementation of an area municipal CIP is intended for projects that contribute to
achieving the goals of the ROP for the development of urban areas. The COVID-19
CIP does not meet the criteria of the Regional Revitalization Program.
Clarington Official Plan
2.2 The Clarington Official Plan provides a policy framework for the implementation of CIPs.
Section 22.1.1 of the Official Plan outlines its goal for Community Improvement "to
provide for and encourage public and private sector activities for the purpose of the
maintenance, enhancement and redevelopment of the existing built environment of the
Municipality".
Municipality of Clarington
Report PDS-034-21
3. Consultation and Engagement
Page 4
3.1 Notice of the Statutory Public Meeting for the amendment to the COVID-19 CIP was
published in the local newspaper and circulated by email to prescribed agencies and
interested parties, in accordance with the Planning Act requirements. The Draft Revised
COVID-19 CIP has been available for viewing on Clarington's website since May 18,
2021, and is included in this report as Attachment 2.
3.2 The Draft Revised CIP was circulated to relevant agencies and departments, including
the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH), and the Region of Durham. At
the time of writing, no agency or department comments have been received on the
proposed amendment. Planning and Development Services staff initiated consultation
with MMAH staff on the COVID-19 CIP at the outset of the project in spring 2020.
Consultation with MMAH continued throughout the preparation of the CIP and their
feedback was included.
3.3 The local BIAs were notified of the proposed amendments to the Plan. The CIP Liaison
Groups for Bowmanville, Newcastle, and Orono were consulted at their respective
meetings in late May.
3.4 Any additional comments received on the Draft Revised CIP at the Public Meeting will
be considered and incorporated into the Final Revised CIP, as appropriate. If no major
concerns or changes are requested at the Statutory Public Meeting, the amendment
could be approved at the following Council meeting.
4. COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan
Purpose and Financial Incentive Programs
4.1 The purpose of the COVID-19 CIP is to provide support to local businesses whose
operations have been periodically shuttered or restricted as a result of the COVID-19
pandemic.
4.2 The COVID-19 CIP establishes Financial Incentives (grants) for qualifying businesses
throughout Clarington to support investments in physical improvements required to
safely reopen, thereby enabling them to continue to serve the community. Details of the
available grants, and the General Eligibility and Means Test Criteria are included in the
One -page COVID-19 CIP Info Sheet included as Attachment 3 to this report.
Municipality of Clarington Page 5
Report PDS-034-21
Communications Strategy
4.3 The CIP incorporates a Communications Strategy to create awareness of grants and
encourage participation. Since the CIP came into effect in November 2020, Planning
and Development Services staff have worked with Communications staff and CBOT to
execute the Strategy. To this end, the Financial Incentive Programs have been actively
promoted on Clarington and CBOT's social media platforms, on Clarington's website,
emailed directly to local BIAs and businesses, and included in Clarington's Planning and
Development Services E-update newsletters.
4.4 To raise greater awareness of the Program, staff presented the COVID-19 CIP at a
January 2021 webinar hosted by CBOT, to Clarington's CIP Liaison Groups and to the
Agricultural Advisory Committee of Clarington.
Monitoring and Evaluation Strategy
4.5 The CIP includes a Monitoring and Evaluation Strategy and identifies key indicators to be
monitored throughout implementation to ensure (i) the grant programs accurately reflect the
types and costs of COVID-19-related improvements, (ii) the desired outcomes are being
achieved, (iii) the application process and grant programs are user-friendly, and (iv) the
grant program recipients are completing their commitments.
4.6 The 6-month review of the COVID-19 CIP has been based upon staff's experience
administrating the application process, program and feedback received from the
business community since implementation in the context of the Monitoring and
Evaluation Strategy.
4.7 To help inform monitoring and evaluation during the early stages of implementation, a
survey was released in February to obtain feedback from businesses and local
stakeholders on the COVID-19 CIP application and grant programs. The survey
included three questions to gauge overall awareness about the CIP, understand
whether businesses intend to apply, and provide an opportunity to connect with staff to
discuss potential grant opportunities. Survey results are outlined in subsection 5.3,
below.
5. Implementation and Review
5.1 The February 2021 Update Memo to Council provided a detailed summary of the
applications received and grant funding allocated to date (Attachment 1). Generally,
twenty-one grant applications were received. Of those, 3 businesses had been
approved, 8 had been declined for not being able to satisfy the eligibility and means test
criteria, and 10 had been in progress or awaiting the submission of supporting
documentation.
5.2 Since the Update Memo, one additional application has been received and 1 more
business has received funding, bringing the total grant funding allocated to $17,600 thus
Municipality of Clarington
Report PDS-034-21
Page 6
far. There continues to be a number of applications that are awaiting the submission of
additional supporting documentation.
5.3 Staff have found that the projects proposed generally align with the eligible work and
grant values. However, the Eligibility and Means Test Criteria has posed challenges
including (i) many applications being submitted without the necessary supporting
financial documentation resulting in longer processing times (ii) a relatively large
number of applicants being unable to satisfy the Means Test requirements, and (iii)
applicant frustration given the substantial time and effort required to prepare a complete
application.
5.4 Overall, 52 survey responses were received. 76 per cent of respondents indicated they
are aware Clarington has a grant program to help qualifying businesses with COVID-19
related expenses, suggesting an acceptable level of awareness. 75 per cent of the total
number of respondents indicated they do not intend to apply for reasons that include:
• The business does not meet the General Eligibility and/or Means Test Criteria;
• The application process seems too complicated;
• The business is not willing to divulge financial information to the Municipality; and
• The business is considered essential.
5.5 Specifically, feedback from survey respondents, applicants, and members of
Clarington's business community has included requests:
To review the maximum practitioner threshold for Registered Medical Practitioners to
account for the business model under which many such businesses operate.
Currently, a Registered Medical Practitioner business must have no more than three
licensed practitioners. Many business locations have several different practitioners
(e.g. chiropractors, Registered Massage Therapists, acupuncturists) operating from
the same location to provide a variety of services. This requirement has been a
barrier to qualifying for many medical practitioner businesses that have been
required to undertake substantial modifications to re -open safely;
To modify the period over which revenue decrease is measured so as not to
penalize businesses for demonstrating adaptation and resiliency, and to address
unintended technicalities. Staff has been informed that the requirement to
demonstrate a minimum thirty per cent revenue loss in March — September 2020
relative to 2019 has been challenging for businesses that have a seasonality
component to their revenue, for those that had success pivoting their operations
during the summer months of 2020, and those newer businesses that may not have
revenue during March — September of 2019.
• To reconsider eligibility criteria to enable franchises to apply for grant funding.
Throughout the preparation and implementation of the COVID-19 CIP, staff has
Municipality of Clarington
Report PDS-034-21
Page 7
heard from franchise businesses requesting they be eligible for the CIP. Currently,
franchise businesses that are part of a local or provincial chain are able to apply for
grant funding. However, businesses that are part of a national or international
franchise chain are not eligible. Staff have had discussions with one franchise that is
one of six locations across Canada and is not eligible. They have requested this
requirement be reconsidered. This matter is discussed further in Section 7 of this
report.
5.6 Further to the above noted feedback, staff has heard from many businesses and
applicants that the supporting documentation requirements to demonstrate compliance
with the Means Test Criteria are simply too onerous; especially when businesses are
just trying to survive.
5.7 The requirement for detailed financial statements, in particular, has complicated and
increased the application processing time, as many applications are submitted without
the required documents. Both applicants and businesses considering applying have
been reluctant to expend additional funds and go to the effort of compiling financial
statements given the relatively small grant values they may receive. Others have not
been willing to provide such detailed information to the Municipality. This accounts for
the number of applications currently on hold, awaiting additional information.
5.8 Staff have tracked all feedback received on the COVID-19 CIP since implementation in
November 2020. The feedback received has been very helpful and has informed the
proposed changes to the Plan discussed in Section 6, below.
6. Proposed Changes to the COVID-19 CIP
6.1 The COVID-19 CIP recognized that the evolving nature of the pandemic may require
adjustments based upon the needs of businesses and the performance of the CIP, once
implementation began. The Financial Incentives can be modified without amendment to the
CIP. Modifications to the General Eligibility or Means Test Criteria require a formal
amendment in accordance with the Planning Act.
Modifications to the General Eligibility and Means Test Criteria requiring a formal
amendment to the CIP
6.2 The following outlines the proposed modifications to the Plan. A detailed summary is
included as Attachment 4 to this report:
• Clarify that the General Eligibility Criteria relating to the maximum number of
licensed practitioners for Registered Medical Practitioners businesses refers to
practitioners from the same profession;
• Adjust the time period used to measure the revenue loss Means Test Criteria to
account for the second and third wave lockdowns and the seasonality component of
Municipality of Clarington
Report PDS-034-21
Page 8
many businesses' annual revenue to help ensure businesses are not penalized for
demonstrating adaptation and resiliency;
• Add a statement to the revenue loss Means Test Criteria to account for businesses
that opened within the year preceding the onset of the pandemic and do not have
financial statements for a full pre -pandemic fiscal year;
• Delete the requirement for personal financial information to satisfy the Means Test,
while continuing to require financial statements for the business;
• Modify the Means Test requiring applicants to declare other CIP grant funding
received to account for programs that have been launched since the approval of
Clarington's COVID-19 CIP;
• Re -instate the three-month Completed Project intake window to provide businesses
that may qualify under the amended Plan an opportunity to apply for funding for
completed projects dating back to March 2020; and
• Modify the term `Local, Independent Business' in the Glossary to enable franchises
that are not owned and operated by a corporate chain to be eligible for the Financial
Incentive Programs, provided they are able to satisfy all other applicable criteria.
This would enable independently owned and operated franchise businesses to be
eligible for the COVID-19 CIP Financial Incentive Programs.
Modifications to the Financial Incentive Programs (Grants) can be modified without
formal amendment
6.3 In addition to the proposed modifications outlined above, staff propose to add a
Program -Specific Eligibility Criteria to the `Adaptation to Outdoor Operation' Grant to
exempt grant applications for the Seasonal Sidewalk Patio License from the Means Test
Criteria.
6.4 This proposed -Specific Criteria would support restaurants participating in the Seasonal
Sidewalk Patio program by simplifying the grant application process for this particular
fee, and would align with the COVID-19-Related Temporary Patio for which there is no
fee. Such applications would still be subject to the General Eligibility Criteria. Should
Council support this proposed criteria, a recommendation has been included in this
report, and a statement to this effect would be added to COVID-19 CIP Appendix A
(Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan Financial Incentives Program
Details) under subsection d. of the `Adaptation to Outdoor Operation Grant'.
7. Discussion
Consideration of Franchises
Municipality of Clarington Page 9
Report PDS-034-21
7.1 In accordance with Council's direction, businesses that are part of national or
international franchises are not currently eligible for the grants under the COVID-19 CIP.
Staff have corresponded with and received feedback from the local franchise community
throughout the preparation and implementation of the CIP. Franchise owners have
requested that consideration be given to making franchise businesses eligible for the
grant programs as many franchises are owned by local business people who are heavily
invested in their business, and are receiving very little support from the franchisors.
7.2 At the time of approval of the CIP, it was noted that the expansion of the eligibility
criteria to include franchises could be considered at the time of the 6-month review,
given staff would have a better understanding of the uptake of the Financial Incentive
Programs by local, independent businesses, and the remaining funds available for
Program expansions.
7.3 Based upon the uptake of the Programs in the first 6 months by local independent
businesses, the overall success rate of applicants' ability to meet the General Eligibility
and Means Test Criteria, and the funding that remains available under the CIP,
modifications are proposed to enable the eligibility of franchise businesses.
Proposed Modifications in the Context of the Goals of the COVID-19 CIP
7.4 The proposed modifications to the COVID-19 CIP are relatively minor and are primarily
intended to address eligibility pinch points that have come to light during the early days
of implementation.
7.5 The modifications have been tailored to fit within the existing structure of the CIP in
accordance with Council's direction to include a Means Test component. However, it is
noted feedback from the business community has indicated that the Program
requirements are onerous relative to most similar COVID-19 financial support programs
and represent a barrier to participation for many businesses during a time when the
community is stretched and stressed.
7.6 While the proposed modifications will address specific implementation challenges that
have been identified, they are likely insufficient to enable the true success of the
COVID-19 CIP Program in the context of achieving the goals of the Plan.
7.7 The Means Test Criteria, in particular the portions related to personal wealth, are seen
as an intrusion into non -business matters and are irrelevant to the goal of the CIP which
is to assist businesses preparing to reopen in safe manner for the public's benefit. As
the goal of the CIP is to assist businesses, respondents have argued, and Staff agree,
that the determination of means should be limited to the business' means.
7.8 In general, staff consider more substantial changes to be required to provide businesses
reasonable access to the funding that Council has allocated in support of the business
community, the residents it employs, and the goods and services it provides.
Municipality of Clarington Page 10
Report PDS-034-21
7.9 If Council desires to provide funding to businesses in support of reopening, the less
restrictive the Program requirements, and similar to the Federal Governments approach,
the more efficiently Staff can process applications and provide the funding. There would
remain restrictions on what improvements the funds may be used to support. Further,
the relative cost of these physical improvement projects is low, and the risk of
inappropriate applications are, in Staff's opinion, nominal.
Input on the Draft Revised COVID-19 CIP and Next Steps
7.10 The proposed Amendment to the COVID-19 CIP has been informed by feedback from
the local business community, and staff's experience processing grant applications
during the first 6 months of implementation. Input received on the Draft Revised CIP will
be reviewed and incorporated, as appropriate, prior to presenting a Final Revised
COVID-19 CIP for Council's consideration.
8. Concurrence
This report has been reviewed by the Director of Financial Services/Treasurer who
concurs with the recommendations.
9. Conclusion
9.1 The purpose of this report is to present the proposed Amendment to the COVID-19 CIP
to Council and the public at the Statutory Public Meeting. It is respectfully recommended
(i) that the report be received (ii) that Planning and Development Services staff consider
comments received, and (iii) that staff modify the Draft Revised COVID-19 CIP as
appropriate to be brought forward with a recommendation for Council's consideration at
a subsequent meeting.
Staff Contact: Sarah Allin, Planner II, 905-623-3379 ext. 2419 or sallin@clarington.net.
Attachments:
Attachment 1 — Memo Re: COVID-19 CIP Implementation Update; dated February 22, 2021
Attachment 2 — Draft Revised COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan; dated May 2021
Attachment 3 — COVID-19 CIP One -Page Summary Sheet
Attachment 4 — Summary of Proposed Changes to COVID-19 CIP
Interested Parties:
List of Interested Parties available from Department.
Attachment 1 to Report PDS-034-21
C►arington
MEMO
If this information is required in an alternate format, please contact the
Accessibility Coordinator at 905-623-3379 ext. 2131.
To: Mayor and Members of Council
From: Faye Langmaid, Manager of Special Projects
Date: February 22, 2021
File No.: PLN 37.6
Re: COVID-19 CIP Implementation Update
Council approved the COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan (CIP) in October 2020 to
support Clarington's local businesses with physical improvements necessary to implement
COVID-19-related health and safety requirements.
The purpose of this memo is to provide an update to Council on the implementation of the
COVID-19 CIP to date. It has now been three months since the COVID-19 CIP came into
effect, and staff are processing grant applications. Further, the intake window for
applications relating to works that have already had been completed (retro-active grants)
closed on February 11 t"
Since the COVID-19 CIP came into effect in November 2020, Planning and Development
Services staff have worked with Communications staff, and the Clarington Board of Trade
(CBOT) to execute the Communications Strategy to create awareness of the grants and
encourage participation. COVID-19 CIP Grant Program information is available on
Clarington's COVID-19 Financial Support webpage, including a one -page summary. The
Program has been actively promoted on Clarington's and CBOT's social media platforms
and emailed directly to local Business Improvement Associations (BIAs) and local
businesses through CBOT's contacts. Information about the Program has also been
included in Clarington's Planning and Development Services e-update newsletters.
In an effort to raise greater awareness about the Program, staff presented the COVID-19
CIP at a January 2021 webinar hosted by CBOT, to Clarington's CIP Liaison Groups for the
downtown CIPs, and to the Agricultural Advisory Committee of Clarington. The CBOT
webinar in particular resulted in a number of applications being submitted.
At the time of writing, twenty-one COVID-19 CIP grant applications have been received
since approval. Of those received, 3 businesses have been approved for funding, 8
applications have been declined due to one or more of the General Eligibility Criteria or
Means Test requirements not being met, and 10 are being actively processed or are
awaiting the submission of additional supporting information in order to proceed.
The Corporation of the Municipality of Clarington, 40 Temperance Street, Bowmanville, ON L1 C 3A6
1-800-563-1195 1 Local:905-623-3379 1 info@clarington.net I www.clarington.net
PLN 37.6
Page 2
The 3 businesses that have received approved funding include 2 Registered Medical
Practitioner businesses, and 1 Arts and Entertainment business, and have resulted in up to
$13,000 in funding being approved to date. Grant details are summarized in Tables 1 and 2
below.
Table 1: Summary of Approved Grant Applications
Type of Business
Project
Grant
Total
Registered Medical
Signage,
Physical Distancing,
$4,000
Practitioner
Replacement/Additional
Business Adaptation,
Furniture and Equipment, Air
Improved Ventilation
Purifiers
Registered Medical
Hygiene Screens, Signage,
Physical Distancing,
$5,500
Practitioner
Replacement/Additional
Business Adaptation
Furniture and Equipment
Arts and
Establishment of an Outdoor
Adaptation to Outdoor
$3,500
Entertainment
Patio
Operations
Business
Table 2: Grant Funds Distributed by Grant Program
Grant Type
Funding Approved to Date
Physical Distancing Improvement Grant
$1,000
Business Adaptation Grant
$7,500
Outdoor Operations Grant
$3,500
Improved Ventilation Grant
$1,000
Technological Infrastructure Improvement Grant
$0
Total Grant Funding Approved to Date
$13,000
In general, participation in the COVID-19 CIP grant programs to date is lower than
anticipated. So too is the applicant success rate. While the overall number of applications
would be considered robust for the first three months of a typical CIP program, the relative
acute nature of the pandemic situation led to expectations of higher participation rates from
the outset. The approval rate of 27 per cent of applications is quite low for a CIP program.
The Corporation of the Municipality of Clarington, 40 Temperance Street, Bowmanville, ON L1 C 3A6
1-800-563-1195 1 Local:905-623-3379 1 info@clarington.net I www.clarington.net
PLN 37.6 Page 3
The CIP includes a Monitoring and Evaluation Strategy and identifies key indicators to be
monitored throughout implementation to ensure (i) the grant programs accurately reflect the
types and costs of COVID-19-related improvements, (ii) the desired outcomes are being
achieved, (iii) the grant programs are user-friendly, and (iv) the grant program participants
are completing their commitments.
To help inform monitoring and evaluation during the early stages of implementation, a short
survey was released in early February to obtain feedback from businesses and local
stakeholders on the COVID-19 CIP grant programs. The survey includes three questions to
gauge overall awareness about the Program, understand whether businesses intend to
apply, and provide an opportunity to connect with staff to discuss potential grant
opportunities.
Thirty-four survey responses have been received at the time of writing. Seventy-six per cent
of respondents indicated they are aware Clarington has a grant program to help qualifying
businesses with COVID-19-related expenses, suggesting an acceptable level of awareness.
Seventy-six per cent of the total number of respondents indicated they do not intend to apply
for reasons that include:
• The business does not meet the General Eligibility and/or Means Test Criteria;
• The application process seems too complicated;
• The business is not willing to divulge financial information to the Municipality; and
• The business is considered essential.
Further to the survey, staff has tracked all feedback received on the COVID-19 CIP since
implementation in November 2020. Feedback received has included requests (i) to
reconsider the eligibility criteria to enable franchise owners to apply for grant funding, (ii) to
modify the period over which the revenue decrease is measured so as not to penalize
businesses for demonstrating adaptation and resiliency, (iii) for increased flexibility in
applying the Means Test to address the disqualification of businesses based upon
unintended technicalities, and (iv) to review the maximum threshold for Registered Medical
Practitioners.
Staff have reviewed the feedback received in the context of the Monitoring and Evaluation
Strategy and the key indicators to be considered throughout implementation. The projects
proposed generally align with the eligible work and grant values of the Program. However,
the stringent Eligibility and Means Test Criteria has posed challenges including (i) many
applications being submitted without the necessary supporting financial documentation
resulting in longer processing times (ii) a relatively large number of applicants being unable
to satisfy the Means Test requirements, and (iii) applicant frustration given the substantial
time and effort required to prepare a complete application.
The Corporation of the Municipality of Clarington, 40 Temperance Street, Bowmanville, ON L1 C 3A6
1-800-563-1195 1 Local:905-623-3379 1 info@clarington.net I www.clarington.net
PLN 37.6 Page 4
Since the development of Clarington's COVID-19 CIP, a few similar grant programs have
been released, including those administered by the Province and Central Counties Tourism.
In consideration of the feedback received, staff have reviewed the eligibility criteria for these
programs in relation to the COVID-19 CIP. These programs' eligibility criteria and
supporting documentation are less rigorous than Clarington's Program. Clarington's
downtown CIP grant programs are less onerous and focused on whether an application
supports the goals of the CIP in the spirit of community improvement. As such, staff are able
to process applications much more efficiently.
The COVID-19 CIP document recognized that the evolving nature of the pandemic may
require adjustments to Program based upon the needs of businesses and the performance
of the CIP, once implementation began. The Grant Programs can be modified without
amendment to the CIP. Modifications to the General Eligibility or Means Test Criteria would
require a formal amendment in accordance with the Planning Act.
In conclusion, from staff's experience with the implementation and administration of the
COVID-19 CIP to date, feedback received from local businesses, and in consideration of the
ongoing and evolving nature of the pandemic for local businesses; staff is seeking Council
direction on whether a Statutory Meeting Report to consider potential amendments to the
COVID-19 CIP is desired. Such modifications would address the lessons learned during the
early days of implementation to better support local businesses as per the goals of the
Program.
If Council should wish to do so, the following motion would be in order:
That Council directs staff to commence the process to amend the COVID-19
Community Improvement Plan in accordance with the Planning Act;
That Council directs staff to schedule a Statutory Public Meeting to consider
proposed amendments to the COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan; and
That all interested parties be notified of the upcoming report.
Faye Langmaid
Manager of Special Projects
Planning and Development Services
cc: Ryan Windle, Director of Planning and Development Services
Trevor Pinn, Director of Financial Services
The Corporation of the Municipality of Clarington, 40 Temperance Street, Bowmanville, ON L1 C 3A6
1-800-563-1195 1 Local:905-623-3379 1 info@clarington.net I www.clarington.net
JVID=l 9
Dmmunitj
inrnvp.mr-,
sil
r ;
k*6 ^
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtE)
2429May 5 2021
Table of Contents
1. Introduction.................................................................................................................4
1.1. Purpose and Approach......................................................................................... 4
1.2. What is a Community Improvement Plan?............................................................ 5
1.2.1. Why was this Community Improvement Plan Undertaken? ............................ 5
1.2.2. What is the Community Improvement Project Area? ...................................... 5
1.2.3. Who has Guided the Community Improvement Plan? ................................... 7
1.3. Background..........................................................................................................8
1.3.1. History of COVID-19 in Clarington.................................................................
8
1.3.2. Overview of Businesses in Clarington............................................................
9
1.3.3. Clarington's Downtown Community Improvement Plans ..............................
10
1.4. Legislation and Policy Overview.........................................................................
11
1.4.1. The Municipal Act and the Planning Act .......................................................
11
1.4.2. Durham Region Official Plan........................................................................
12
1.4.3. Clarington Official Plan.................................................................................
12
1.5. How to Use this Community Improvement Plan ..................................................
13
2. Consultation..............................................................................................................
13
2.1. Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing...........................................................
13
2.2. Steering Committee............................................................................................
14
2.3. Community Consultation.....................................................................................
14
2.3.1. CIP Pre -Application Form: ............................................................................
14
2.3.2. Focus Groups...............................................................................................
14
2.3.3. Public Meeting..............................................................................................
15
2.4. How Did Consultation Shape the CIP?...............................................................
15
3. Financial Incentive Programs....................................................................................
16
3.1. Proposed Programs............................................................................................
16
3.2. General Financial Incentive Eligibility Criteria .....................................................
17
3.3. Means Test Criteria............................................................................................
18
4. Plan Administration...................................................................................................
19
4.1. Administration of Financial Incentive Programs and Budget ...............................
19
E
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtOber
20-2-9May 5 2021
4.2. Combining Programs and Values....................................................................... 20
4.3. Application Process and Submission Requirements for Financial Incentive
Programs................................................................................................................... 20
4.4. Communications Strategy................................................................................... 22
4.5. Plan Horizon....................................................................................................... 24
5. Monitoring and Evaluation Strategy........................................................................... 24
5.1. Plan Monitoring and Evaluation.......................................................................... 24
5.2. Adjustments and Amendments to this Plan ........................................................ 25
6. Implementation.......................................................................................................... 25
7. Interpretation............................................................................................................. 26
APPENDIX A: Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan Financial Incentives
ProgramDetails............................................................................................................ 28
APPENDIX B: CIP Grant Pre -Application Form............................................................ 32
APPENDIX C: Input Received from Local Businesses .................................................. 37
APPENDIX D: Notice of Statutory Public Meeting.........................................................43
List of Tables and Figures
Table 1: Summary of Clarington's Downtown CIP Financial Incentive Programs*........ 11
Table 2: Summary of Recommended Financial Incentive Programs ............................. 16
Figure 1: Map showing COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan Area ......................... 6
If this information is required in an alternate format, please contact the Accessibility
Coordinator at 905-623-3379 ext. 2131.
3
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OEtE)
2829May 5 2021
1. Introduction
Clarington has a long history of supporting its historical downtown areas and rural
communities while taking advantage of federal and provincial funding programs to
support civic improvements. As the COVID-19 pandemic began to take hold in Ontario,
shuttering many of Clarington's local businesses, a Community Improvement Plan (CIP)
was identified as a potential tool that could be used to help local, independent
businesses respond to this challenging time. In Ontario, municipalities have been
granted authority by legislation to use the CIP tool to support and encourage strategic,
physical development or redevelopment in all or part of a community.
The Official Plan for the Municipality of Clarington outlines the goals and objectives for a
CIP. A CIP is to provide for and encourage public and private sector activities for the
purpose of the enhancement, rehabilitation and redevelopment of the existing built
environment of the Municipality. The Official Plan directs that CIPs will (i) provide
guidance to Council in setting priorities for municipal spending with respect to
community improvement projects and (ii) encourage activities that are accessible for all
ages and levels of abilities, promoting equity, and contributing to healthy and
sustainable development. This is the fifth Community Improvement Plan for Clarington.
1.1. Purpose and Approach
The purpose of the COVID-19
CIP is to provide support to local,
independent businesses whose
operations have been shuttered
or restricted as a result of the
COVID-19 pandemic. This CIP
will assist qualifying businesses
with the costs of physical
improvements required to safely
and responsibly reopen, thereby
enabling them to continue to
serve the community.
Sidewalk patio at Endivine.
To accomplish this, the CIP establishes financial incentives for qualifying businesses
throughout the Municipality of Clarington. The objectives of the CIP's Financial Incentive
Programs are to (i) support businesses that invest in improvements to adapt operations,
enabling safe and successful reopening during the COVID-19 pandemic, and (ii)
encourage businesses to become more resilient to potential disruptions to normal
operations throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
n
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtO
2829May 5 2021
1.2. What is a Community Improvement Plan?
A CIP is a comprehensive community -based planning study. A CIP articulates a vision
for the continued prosperity of an area. It is based on an assessment of experience and
future prospects, along with a realistic `road map' of how to get there. CIPs are special
types of studies identified in the Planning Act, Municipal Act, and Official Plans. They
are special because upon completion and adoption, they give a municipality extra
powers, such as the ability to provide physical improvement incentives and grant
programs for a specific portion or the entirety of the municipality.
1.2.1. Why was this Community Improvement Plan Undertaken?
In spring 2020, businesses were forced to close in the interest of public safety amid the
COVID-19 pandemic. Clarington Council expressed concerns about the ability of small
businesses to reopen safely at a time when the costs of social distancing and safety
measures may be difficult to overcome.
In response to Council's concerns, Municipal staff recommended a CIP as an option to
provide support to small businesses impacted by COVID-19-related reopening
requirements. A CIP provides municipalities the opportunity to implement financial
incentives to support identified community needs and is sufficiently flexible to tailor to
the needs of businesses over time. Under the circumstances presented by the COVID-
19 pandemic, staff considers the use of a CIP in this context to be appropriate.
On June 22, 2020 Council passed a resolution directing staff to undertake the
development of a COVID-19 CIP to support independent local businesses, and that a
fund of $1,000,000 be set aside for COVID-19-related improvements undertaken by
qualifying businesses. The required accompanying CIP Project Area By-law 2020-039
was also enacted on this date.
The CIP is intended to be available for 3 years. The CIP horizon may be extended at
the discretion of Council. The Financial Incentive Programs under the CIP may also be
adjusted based upon the needs of businesses, the CIP's performance, and budget
considerations.
1.2.2. What is the Community Improvement Project Area?
Part IV of the Planning Act states that the Council of a municipality may, by by-law,
designate an area of the municipality as an area to be examined for community
improvement. This area is known as a Community Improvement Project Area. Section
22 of the Clarington Official Plan provides the necessary framework to establish
Community Improvement Project Areas.
5
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtO
2029May 5 2021
On June 22, 2020 Council enacted By-law 2020-039 to designate the entirety of the
Municipality of Clarington a Community Improvement Project Area for the purposes of
preparing the COVID-19 CIP. Clarington is a geographically large municipality, covering
an area of approximately 612 square kilometres, and containing four urban centres and
13 hamlets. The CIPA encompasses all lands within the Municipal boundaries, as
illustrated by Figure 1 and described below:
• Lake Ontario to the south;
• The western boundary falls along Townline Road if it were to extend as far south
as Lake Ontario and as far north as Boundary Road;
• The eastern boundary falls along East Townline Road, were it to extend as far
south as Lake Ontario and as far north as Ganaraska Road, and Cold Springs
Camp Road if it were to extend as far north as Boundary Road; and
• The northern boundary is not a straight line, but rather falls along Boundary
Road. Running west to east, the northern boundary cuts south along Darlington-
Manvers Townline Road and then east again along Regional Road 20 until it
becomes Boundary Road again near the eastern boundary.
Bdiketon*
�
yt
�Enrkdlen I , si P1
Soa -, �' �, Kirby .
Kendal
,L
Harn`pLon � ,i
Mitchell
CoT
►o.:A
OR
CourtRe Ma ;le
Grove t,e
ar
Bowmanville II
' i Bro ille Newtonville
Newcastle , , + wa
cuft" COVID 19 Community Improvement Plan
N
Figure 1: Map showing COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan Area.
C
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtO
2029May 5 2021
1.2.3. Who has Guided the Community Improvement Plan?
This CIP was guided by a Steering Committee consisting of Municipal staff from
Planning & Development Services, Financiale--Services, and Legislative Services, along
with representatives from the Clarington Board of Trade (CBOT).
The Steering Committee met several times
throughout the development of the CIP to
discuss various components of the CIP,
including the means test, Financial
Incentive Programs, and feedback
received on the draft CIP.
The existing downtown CIP Liaison
Groups for Bowmanville, Newcastle, and
Orono were consulted and invited to
provide input based upon their knowledge,
and insights gained through the
implementation of the Downtown CIPs.
Focus Group(s) comprised of local
business owners were consulted to
provide business sector perspectives on
the changes businesses have undertaken
in order to safely reopen, and input on the
development of the financial incentive
programs. Input received through
consultation with local businesses is
further detailed in Section 2 of this CIP.
New take-out window at King Street Pool & Hot Tub
Supplies store.
Community Improvement Plan Vision and Goals
A vision statement is an aspirational description of what a community believes is the
desirable future state and describes the qualities and characteristics that are
appreciated and valued by the community. Vision statements provide guidance for how
change and development can be carried out in a manner that is sympathetic to each
context. The COVID-19 CIP was developed based upon the following Vision
Statement:
Clarington's local, independent businesses have emerged from the COVID-19
pandemic having safely and successfully adapted operations to our new normal and are
positioned to be more resilient to potential future service disruptions in order to continue
to serve the community.
7
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtO
20-2-9May 5 2021
The Vision Statement guides business improvement and adaptation projects under the
COVID-19 CIP. All improvements are to be generally consistent with and supportive of
the Vision.
More specifically, the implementation of this CIP will be focused on achieving the
following goals in order to realize the Vision:
• To support innovative and creative COVID-19-related improvements to adapt
Clarington's local, independent businesses to help ensure businesses are
operating in accordance with health and safety requirements and
recommendations;
• To provide financial incentives designed to stimulate building and property
improvements to enhance business resiliency going forward;
• To encourage improvements during the pandemic that are accessible for all ages
and levels of abilities, promote equity, and contribute to a healthy and
sustainable community.
1.3. Background
1.3.1. History of COVID-19 in Clarington
Canada's first confirmed case of COVID-19 was reported on January 27, 2020. The
Region of Durham reported its first confirmed case of COVID-19 on February 28, and
the number of confirmed cases in the Region peaked in mid -April at a rate of more than
fifty new cases being reported each day. Clarington reported its first confirmed case of
COVID-19 on March 21, 2020. The number of confirmed cases per day in Clarington
peaked between March 23, 2020 and April 6, 2020 with approximately thirty-five percent
of all Clarington cases being reported within those two weeks.
Much of Ontario experienced similar or more severe outbreaks of COVID-19 during that
time. On March 17, 2020 in response to the outbreak, the Province of Ontario declared
an emergency under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act as it relates
to an outbreak of a communicable disease. Subsequent to the declaration of
emergency, the Province of Ontario issued several orders, which resulted in the
temporary shutdown of non -essential businesses.
On March 24, 2020, the Province of Ontario announced a list of "essential businesses"
that would be allowed to remain open during the pandemic, leading many businesses in
Clarington to close for months. On April 27, 2020 having seen the rates of infection in
various regions diminish, the Province announced the plan "A Framework for
Reopening our Province", whereby a three-phase approach would be taken to reopen
non -essential businesses that had been forced to close for the pandemic shutdown.
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtO
2829May 5 2021
COVID-19 Signage and designated waiting area at
Scrub'n.
All municipalities started in the "Protect
and Support" Phase 1 of the plan on
April 27, 2020. For Phase Two the
Province would work with Municipalities
to monitor trends in key public health
indicators to determine when
businesses from different sectors could
safely be reopened in three stages, with
those businesses posing greater public
health risks being reopened in the third
stage. The Region of Durham was
approved to enter Phase Two Stage
Two on June 19, 2020 and Phase Two
Stage Three on July 24, 2020. Phase
Three of reopening Ontario focuses on
long-term recovery and commenced at
the beginning of September 2020.
As of October 2, 2020, one hundred and
thirty-five cases of COVID-19 infection
were reported by the Durham Region
Health Department for the Municipality
of Clarington. Seven Clarington
residents had died due to COVID-19
related complications, 13 were in home
isolation and 115 had recovered.
43 per cent of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Clarington were traced back to community
exposure, while 15 per cent were traced to the patient having contact with another
known case of COVID-19. As of October 2, 2020, total active cases reported in
Clarington remained low with only 13 active cases reported.
1.3.2. Overview of Businesses in Clarington
The population of Clarington is currently estimated to be between 100,000 and 104,000
and is expected to increase by a factor of more than 45 per cent by the year 2031. The
Municipality derives its economic strength from its diverse business community which
includes over 5,000 businesses. This diverse local economy includes more than one
hundred manufacturers, four hundred working farms, and three hundred retailers.
Clarington is seeing growth in emerging markets such as the Life Sciences, Health
Science and Tourism sectors.
E
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtOber
2029May 5 2021
The Region of Durham reported that in 2019 19 per cent of businesses in Clarington
were in the Retail Trade sector, making it the most prevalent sector in Clarington's
business community. The Accommodation and Food Services and Health Care and
Social Services sectors each comprised 12 per cent of total businesses in Clarington,
while the Manufacturing and Educational Services sectors each represented four per
cent of total business locations in Clarington.
Protective Screening at Enniskillen General Store
The Municipality was home to 22,401 jobs in 2019, the majority of which were in the
Utilities, Retail Trade, Accommodation and Food Services, and Health Care and Social
Services sectors. Of these jobs, 62 per cent were full-time, 33 per cent were part-time
and five per cent were seasonal. Businesses most often reported difficulty in finding
skilled labour in the following occupations: auto -mechanic, hair stylist, chef/cook,
driver/operator, and registered massage therapist. The Financial Incentive Programs
recommended herein are generally reflective of the composition of Clarington's
businesses.
1.3.3. Clarington's Downtown Community Improvement Plans
Clarington has existing CIPs for the three historical downtowns in Bowmanville,
Newcastle, and Orono. Each of these CIPs share a similar vision: to enable the
Municipality to respond to increased community growth by establishing a framework to
encourage rehabilitation and revitalization of public areas. These CIPs have community
liaison groups with stakeholder member representatives of the business community in
each of the downtowns. Planning and Development Services staff meet quarterly with
the liaison groups, who are responsible for identifying issues and concerns that are
specific to each of the CIP areas.
10
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtO
2829May 5 2021
Participation in grant programs under Clarington's downtown CIPs does not preclude a
business from qualifying for funding under this CIP, subject to the eligibility criteria
contained herein. Businesses are encouraged to continue to participate in Clarington's
downtown CIPs. As seen in Table 1 below, each CIP has its own suite of Financial
Incentive Programs, offering grants to property owners and businesses in the respective
Community Improvement Project Area.
Table 1: Summary of Clarington's Downtown CIP Financial Incentive Programs*
*Details pertaining to each Downtown CIP and associated financial incentive Programs are available on
Clarington's website.
1.4. Legislation and Policy Overview
1.4.1. The Municipal Act and the Planning Act
The COVID-19 CIP has been prepared in accordance with the provisions of the
Municipal Act, 2001 and the Planning Act, 1990, R.S.O.
Subsection 106(1) of the Municipal Act, 2001 prohibits granting of bonuses, directly or
indirectly, to assist manufacturing businesses or other industrial or commercial
enterprises. However, an exception is made in Subsection 106(3) of the Municipal Act,
2001 for councils exercising powers under Subsection 28(6) or (7) of the Planning Act.
11
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtOber
20-2-9May 5 2021
Section 28 of the Planning Act allows municipalities with provisions in their Official Plans
relating to community improvement to designate by by-law a "Community Improvement
Project Area". Once this is done, a municipality may prepare a "Community
Improvement Plan" for the Community Improvement Project Area.
For the purposes of carrying out a CIP, Subsection 28(7) of the Planning Act permits the
municipalities to make grants or loans to the registered owners, assessed owners, and
tenants of land and buildings within the Community Improvement Project Area. Grant or
loan programs implemented under a CIP may be directed to pay for the whole, or any
part, of the cost of rehabilitating such lands and buildings in conformity with the CIP.
The preparation of the CIP includes a requirement to consult with the Minister of
Municipal Affairs and Housing, and a statutory public meeting to be held in accordance
with Section 17 of the Planning Act, 1990 R.S.O. The statutory public meeting is to be
advertised in the local newspaper. The statutory public meeting for the COVID-19 CIP
was held on September 28, 2020 and provided the opportunity to explain the CIP and
receive feedback. A copy of the statutory public meeting notice is included in Appendix
D.
1.4.2. Durham Region Official Plan
Subsection 14.4 of the Durham Region Official Plan (ROP) contains policies on CIPs.
The ROP specifies that the Region may assist in the implementation of area municipal
CIPs by adopting a Regional Revitalization Program that will guide how the Region may
participate financially, or otherwise, in area municipal CIPs. Subsection 14.4 of the ROP
also notes that the Region's participation in the implementation of an area municipal
CIP is intended for projects that contribute to achieving the goals of the ROP for the
development of urban areas.
1.4.3. Clarington Official Plan
The Clarington Official Plan (OP) provides a policy framework for the implementation of
CIPs. Subsection 22.1.1 of the Official Plan outlines its goal for Community
Improvement "to provide for and encourage public and private sector activities for the
purpose of the maintenance, enhancement and redevelopment of the existing built
environment of the Municipality".
Subsection 22.3.4 notes that CIPs will be implemented by means of powers conferred
upon Council under the Planning Act, the Municipal Act, and other applicable legislation.
This includes but is not limited to the acquisition, improvement and disposal of land and
buildings, and the encouragement of infilling, redevelopment and other land use
intensification. Subsection 22.3.5 of the OP also directs that the Municipality will consult
with the Region of Durham prior to the approval of any CIP.
12
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtO
2029May 5 2021
1.5. How to Use this Community Improvement Plan
The COVID-19 CIP will primarily be used by
local businesses, Council, and Municipal staff.
Specifically, local businesses will use the CIP
to participate in the Financial Incentive
Programs to receive grants from the
Municipality subject to eligibility criteria.
Businesses may also use the COVID-19 CIP
in conjunction with Clarington's existing
downtown CIPs for projects that include
components that are not eligible for coverage
under the COVID-19 CIP, but satisfy
applicable requirements of the relevant
downtown CIP.
Council will use the CIP to direct funding to
the Financial Incentive Programs. Municipal
staff will be responsible for program
administration, communications, and
monitoring.
2. Consultation
The preparation of this CIP benefitted from
Physically distant outdoor waiting seating and
signage at Hoopers Jewellers.
valuable input obtained through the stakeholder and public consultation process
undertaken. The development of the CIP included consultation with a Steering
Committee, Council, and key stakeholders including local business owners throughout
the Municipality, existing CIP Liaison Groups, and members of the public. The
consultation process is summarized below.
2.1. Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
Planning and Development Services staff initiated consultation with the Ministry of
Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH) in April 2020 with regards to the use of the CIP
tool to support local businesses with COVID-19 related improvements. MMAH staff
considered the use of a CIP to be appropriate in the context of physical improvements
within a designated Community Improvement Project Area, and subject to the
applicable provisions of the Planning Act and Municipal Act. Consultation with MMAH
has continued throughout the preparation of the CIP.
13
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtO
202 Way 5 2021
2.2. Steering Committee
A Steering Committee was established to guide the preparation of the CIP. The
Steering Committee was comprised of Municipal staff from Planning and Development
Services, Financiale Services, and Legislative Services, as well as CBOT staff. Several
virtual meetings were held throughout the development of the CIP in order to provide
progress updates, discuss and obtain input on the Financial Incentive Programs and
means test requirements, and coordinate consultation and outreach events.
2.3. Community Consultation
2.3.1. CIP Pre -Application Form:
At the outset of the preparation of the CIP, a CIP Pre -Application Form was developed
and made available on Clarington's COVID-19 Financial Support webpage as a
component of the CIP consultation strategy. Local business owners were invited to
complete the application form to inform the Municipality about improvements they were
undertaking to adapt to and manage the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The
information collected from businesses
through the Pre -Application Form
helped shape the Financial Incentive
programs to support COVID-19-
related physical improvement projects
that enhance the safety of
Clarington's residents and employees.
Details of Financial Incentive
Programs recommended to be funded
through this CIP are included in
Section 3 and Appendix A.
The types of COVID-19 improvements
identified through the Pre -Application
Form are included in Appendix C.
2.3.2. Focus Groups
Physically distant waiting -line, ground -spacing and signage
at Paddy's Market.
Focus Group(s) comprised of local
business owners were consulted to provide business sector perspectives on the
development of the Financial Incentive Programs and the changes that businesses
have undertaken in order to safely reopen. The purpose of these sessions was to
provide local business owners with an overview of the development of the CIP and the
potential grants that could be offered, and to receive input and guidance regarding the
needs of local businesses during these challenging times.
14
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtO
20-2-9May 5 2021
Approximately 25 local business owners participated in the focus groups and/or
corresponded with staff to provide responses to the following survey questions:
• What physical improvements/changes did you have to make to be able to safely
reopen your business (e.g. hygiene screens, removal of walls, furniture, etc. to
allow for physical distancing)?
• What were the approximate costs of the types of improvements/changes you
have made?
Attendees were also invited to provide written comments. A summary of the responses
received from local businesses is included in Appendix C.
2.3.3. Public Meeting
A statutory public meeting was held on September 28, 2020 at a Special Planning and
Development Committee meeting to present and receive input from Council and the
public on the draft CIP. The meeting included a presentation providing an overview of
the CIP and its preparation, the consultation process undertaken to date, and the suite
of draft Financial Incentive programs proposed.
2.4. How Did Consultation Shape the CIP?
The consultation undertaken during the preparation of the CIP included various
components. The input received from stakeholders, local businesses and the public
provided staff with insight into (i) the experiences of local businesses; (ii) the changes
that have been required to date to pivot their operations; (iii) anticipated modifications
that will come as the weather grows colder; and (iv) the costs associated with the above
mentioned changes. The input proved invaluable in shaping the vision and goals of the
CIP, and in creating Financial Incentive Programs that accurately reflect the
experiences of stakeholders and are effective in supporting local, independent
businesses through the COVID-19 pandemic.
15
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OEtO
20-2-9May 5 2021
3. Financial Incentive Programs
3.1. Proposed Programs
Financial Incentive Programs will be offered to support local, independent businesses
that are investing in COVID-19-related physical improvements, providing grants for
qualifying projects. All Financial Incentive Programs outlined in this Subsection are
subject to the General Eligibility Criteria and Means Test Criteria detailed in Subsections
3.2 and 3.3, respectively. In addition, each Financial Incentive Program may be subject
to program -specific eligibility criteria (see Appendix A for details). Table 2 provides a
summary of the recommended Financial Incentive Programs.
Table 2: Summary of Recommended Financial Incentive Programs
The Physical Distancing Improvements Grant is intended to
assist businesses with improvements to implement physical
distancing measures to safely reopen.
The Business Adaptation Grant is intended to assist
businesses with physical modifications necessary to support
operational changes required for the business to continue to
operate or reopen safely.
The COVID-19-Related Improved Ventilation Grant is intended
to assist businesses with improvements to retrofit and enhance
ventilation and air quality within existing buildings in
accordance with COVID-19- related public health requirements
and recommendations.
The Adaptation to Outdoor Operation Grant is intended to
assist businesses with the cost of construction and furnishing
of outdoor patio and/or seating areas in response to COVID-19
requirements and recommendations.
The COVID-19-Related Technology Improvement Grant is
intended to assist businesses with the cost of technological
infrastructure required to safely provide the community access
to the business' products and services.
16
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtO
2029May 5 2021
Program details relating to eligible costs, grant values and program -specific
requirements are included in Appendix A. The purpose of this section is to provide an
overview of possible Financial Incentive Programs to be administered under the CIP.
Additional Financial Incentive Programs may be considered without amendment to this
Plan.
3.2. General Financial Incentive Eligibility Criteria
The following General Eligibility Criteria are recommended to apply to all of the COVID-
19 CIP Financial Incentive Programs in addition to any program -specific criteria outlined
in Appendix A. To be eligible for the Financial Incentive Programs under the CIP, the
following requirements must be satisfied:
1) The local, independent business must fall into one of the following categories:
• Retail Stores;
• Food Services;
• Arts and Entertainment;
• Personal Care Services; or
• Registered Medical Practitioners
2) The grant must be for a business that lawfully operates from a physical
space/location within the Community Improvement Project Area (i.e. located in
Clarington), as designated by By-law 2020-039, and is open to the public.
3) The business must have been established and operational prior to March 17,
2020.
4) The business must have no fewer than two Full-time Equivalents (FTE)
employees and no more than 50 FTE employees as of March 17, 2020. In the
case of Food Services businesses, the business must have no more than 100
FTE employees as of March 17, 2020. In the case of Registered Medical
Practitioners, the business must have no more than three licensed practitioners
from the same profession.
5) The project must contribute to the achievement of the Vision and Goals of the
COVID-19 CIP (refer to Section 1.2.3).
6) The project must conform with the Clarington Official Plan, Zoning By-law(s),
applicable guidelines and procedures, and all other relevant legislation (e.g.
Ontario Building Code, conservation of identified cultural heritage resources).
7) The business must not be considered a Home Occupation, as defined by the
applicable Zoning By-law.
17
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtO
282OMay 5 2021
8) Completed projects must be consistent with the description of the Financial
Incentive Program that is being applied for and approved through the CIP Grant
application process.
9) Financial Incentive Programs under this CIP may be combined. If combined, the
maximum total grant funding shall not exceed a value of $10,000 per business.
Applicants must declare all other funding applications being pursued. In no case
shall the total grant funding exceed the total eligible project costs.
10) All eligible works must have taken place after March 17, 2020, being the date on
which the Ontario Government declared a state of emergency.
11) The property must be in good standing as it relates to municipal fees, charges,
and taxes to the satisfaction of the Director of Financials Services, prior to the
issuance of grant funding.
12) The business must demonstrate that it meets the General Eligibility Criteria, any
program -specific criteria, and the ability to satisfy the Means Test Criteria in
Subsection 3.3.
3.3. Means Test Criteria
The Financial Incentive Programs recommended to be included in this CIP have been
developed to address the needs of local, independent businesses whose operations
have been adversely impacted by COVI D-1 9-related shutdowns or reductions in
operations and are able to safely reopen to serve the community.
To be eligible for the Financial Incentive Programs offered under the COVID-19 CIP, the
business must meet the following Means Test Criteria:
1) Demonstrate a minimum of 30 per cent loss of revenue during the most recent
fiscal year relative to the 2019 fiscal ypar ever the period between March 202-0
and September2in�tivo to the period in 201 °, or an alternative period
defined by and to the satisfaction of the Director of Finance/Treasurer.
Businesses that opened prior to March 2020 but did not have a full prior fiscal
vear are still eliaible. arovided all other General Eliaibilitv and Means Test Criteria
are met;
2) Demonstrate that the business was solvent, viable, and not declared bankrupt
prior to March 17, 2020;
3) Demonstrate the ability to maintain operations for a minimum of six months from
the date of the CIP Grant application;
4) Demonstrate that the business, including related business under common
ownership, had retained earnings:
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OetO
2829May 5 2021
a. If incorporated, not exceeding $500,000 per arm's length shareholder at
the end of the preceding fiscal year; or
h• i �If ninrornorated ascots of the OWRer(s) not evneedino $500 nnn not of
e e
debt for each OWRer•
5) Demonstrate that the total sales in 2019 did not exceed $2 million in the case of
Retail Stores, Arts and Entertainment businesses, Personal Care Services; and
Registered Medical Practitioners, and $5 million in the case of Food Services
businesses;
6) Demonstrate that the business had net income after taxes not exceeding
$300,000 per arm's length shareholder/owner during the preceding fiscal year;
and
7) Declare that the business has not received any other grant funding for the
purpose of assisting with expenses related to the projects identified in the
application for the Financial Incentive Programs herein. related to GOVID_1a
with the eVnentlen of gFants annorrlanne with the Canada CmeFgenn!i
Wage Subsidy (GF=V S) Dregram and the Canada CmeFgenn\/ Commernial Rent
Ossistanne Program
4. Plan Administration
The following section outlines the administration components, including the application
process for the COVID-19 and associated Financial Incentive Programs. The structure
and processes described in this section are similar to that which is already in place for
Clarington's existing downtown CIPs.
4.1. Administration of Financial Incentive Programs and Budget
Upon the approval by Council, the COVID-19 CIP will be administered by the Planning
and Development Services Department in conjunction with Financiale Services.
Communications Services staff will be responsible for supporting the implementation of
the Communications Strategy outlined in Subsection 4.4.
19
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OetO
2829May 5 2021
Specifically, Planning and Development Services staff will be responsible for the day-to-
day management and administration of the CIP, including consulting with potential
applicants regarding financial incentives, coordinating submissions, reviewing and
evaluating applications for compliance with applicable General Eligibility and program -
specific criteria, and monitoring the
CIP. Financiale Services staff will be
responsible for reviewing CIP
applications for compliance with the
Means Test Criteria.
Council will be responsible for the
funding of the Financial Incentive
Programs identified in the CIP.
Planning and Development Services
and Financiale Services staff will
undertake the management of the
approved budget.
Physical barrier installed at the counter at Justin Barry
Optical.
4.2. Combining Programs and Values
In recognition of the evolving nature of the COVID-19 situation, and the need for
businesses to continually adapt to changing circumstances, the Financial Incentive
Programs made available under this CIP may be used individually or may be combined,
subject to the exceptions as outlined within the specific program details and eligibility
criteria contained herein. Businesses may also be permitted to submit Financial
Incentive Program applications for more than one COVID-19-related improvement
project over the horizon of this CIP, provided the application is not intended to support a
project for which funding has previously been received.
The total of all grants provided to each business for eligible projects over the CIP
horizon shall not exceed the value of $10,000. Further, in no instance shall the funding
amount exceed the eligible project costs.
4.3. Application Process and Submission Requirements for Financial
Incentive Programs
1) Consult with Municipality of Clarington staff
Applicants are encouraged to contact Planning and Development Services staff to
discuss their project and to determine any supporting information that is required.
2) Applicant submits the CIP Grant application
20
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtOber
20-2-OMay 5 2021
The applicant will submit a completed CIP Grant application form along with all
supporting information determined to be required. Typical supporting information may
include the following, and will be outlined within the application:
• Description of project;
• Estimates or invoices associated with the project;
• Copy of any permits, licenses, drawings, renderings; and
• Any other information as may be appropriate based on the nature of the application.
3) Completeness of application
Staff will review the application to determine whether it includes all of the required
information. If the application is not complete, staff will contact the applicant to request
any additional information that is required.
4) Review of application
Once the application has been determined to be complete, staff will undertake a
detailed review of the application, and circulate the application for comment to relevant
Municipal Departments. The review will include an assessment of the application to
ensure all applicable eligibility and Means Test criteria are satisfied.
5) Decision on the application
The Director of Planning and Development Services will make a decision on whether to
approve the application. If approved, the applicant will be notified by way of a letter of
conditional approval. The letter will outline the conditions of approval, when the payment
of the grant will occur, and any other matters that may be applicable to a specific
application.
If the application is not approved, the applicant will be contacted to advise the reasons
the application was refused. In certain cases, an applicant may be able to address the
reasons for the refusal.
6) Applicant may commence project
The applicant may commence the project once the application has been conditionally
approved. It is recognized that certain applications received may apply to projects that
have already been completed. While improvement projects commenced after the
Province's declaration of emergency on March 17, 2020 may be eligible for Financial
Incentive Programs, approval of grants for such works already undertaken is not
guaranteed.
21
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtO
2029May 5 2021
Applications seeking grant funding for projects completed between March 17, 2020 and
the date the COVID-19 CIP comes into effect will be subject to a limited application
intake period. The deadline for such applications will be three months from the effective
date of the COVID-19 CIP, as amended.
7) Applicant contacts the Municipality to confirm completion of project
Once the project is complete, the applicant advises the Municipality. Municipal staff may
conduct a site inspection or may request the applicant to submit photos of the
completed works. Municipal staff will determine whether the applicant has met all terms
and conditions outlined in the letter of conditional
approval.
8) Municipality issues grant
The Municipality issues the grant upon
confirmation that all terms and conditions have
been fulfilled.
The provision of all grants under the Financial
Incentive Programs will be administered on a first -
come first -served basis to the limit of the available
funding. As noted in step 6) of the application
process above, applications for grant funding to
support projects completed between March 17,
2020 and the date the COVID-19 CIP comes into
effect will be subject to an application deadline.
4.4. Communications Strategy
New curbside pick-up only
at Little Buck.
To ensure the success of the CIP, it is essential that local business owners and
stakeholders are aware of the Plan and the associated Financial Incentive Programs.
The Communications Strategy outlined below should be implemented to increase
awareness of the available grants and encourage participation and uptake.
The content of messaging associated with the CIP should be direct and succinct in
consideration of the increased workloads under which many local businesses are
currently operating. As the CIP program administrator, the Municipality will consider the
following communications strategies:
a) Website: The COVID-19 CIP and related documents should be made available
on the COVID-19 Financial Support page of Clarington's website. Further, the
existing Community Improvement Grants webpage should be updated to include
22
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtO
2029May 5 2021
information on the COVID-19 CIP, including a summary of the grant programs
available, the CIP application form, and relevant contact information.
b) Social Media: The CIP should be promoted over the Municipality's social media
accounts on a regular basis in order to increase awareness of the available
grants. Social media posts should include links to the information available on the
Municipality's website.
c) CIP Brochure: A brochure summarizing the Financial Incentive Programs
available under the CIP should be created once the CIP is approved. The
brochure should be distributed either in hard copy or digitally to local businesses,
the BIAs and existing CIP Liaison Groups. Updates may be required from time to
time to account for any changes to the Financial Incentive Programs.
d) Media Releases: Information about the CIP and Financial Incentive Programs
should be sent to local media on a periodic basis.
e) Newsletters and Publications: Profiling of the CIP, the Financial Incentive
Programs, and implementation success stories should be included in Planning
and Economic Development publications and newsletters published by the
Municipality, Clarington Board of Trade, the Region, and other external sources.
f) Other Initiatives: The Municipality should consider other opportunities to promote
the CIP grant programs to local businesses, such as through community
partners. For example, encouraging recipients of COVID-19CIP grants to post a
sign indicating the business has participated in the Financial Incentive Programs.
23
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan
2829May 5 2021
4.5. Plan Horizon
The COVID-19 CIP will be available for
three years from the date upon which it
comes into effect. The CIP may be
extended beyond three years at the
discretion of Council should the COVID-19
pandemic situation warrant additional
support for Clarington's local businesses.
The situation surrounding COVID-19 will
continue to evolve over time, and so too
will the related needs of local businesses.
The Financial Incentive Programs under
this CIP may be adjusted based upon the
needs of local businesses, overall the
performance of the CIP, and future budget
considerations.
New Fusion UV- Germicidal Disinfectant System used to
clean glasses at Justin Barry Optical.
5. Monitoring and Evaluation Strategy
5.1. Plan Monitoring and Evaluation
The COVID-19 CIP is intended to support local, independent businesses with the costs
of improvements that are required to reopen safely and adapt to the evolving pandemic
situation. In this context, the CIP is not expected to be a long-term document, nor
should it be a static document. The following key indicators will be monitored throughout
the implementation of the CIP:
a) Funds dispersed through the CIP Financial Incentive Programs to determine
which programs are being utilized; and
b) Feedback from applicants on the Financial Incentive Programs and application
process.
The information collected through the implementation of the CIP will be used by the
Municipality to periodically adjust the Financial Incentive Programs to ensure (i) the
Programs accurately reflect the types and costs of COVID-19-related improvements, (ii)
the desired outcomes are being achieved (iii) the programs are user-friendly, and (iv)
program participants are completing their commitments. Such information will also
assist with providing updates to Council on the impacts of the CIP.
24
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtO
202 May 5 2021
5.2. Adjustments and Amendments to this Plan
This CIP will be reviewed after a 6-month period to assess if the Plan is fulfilling its
purpose, based on the information outlined in Subsection 5.1.
The Financial Incentive Programs can be activated, deactivated, adjusted, or
discontinued by Council without amendment to this Plan. The Municipality may review
and adjust the terms and/or requirements of any of the Financial Incentive Programs
contained in this CIP without amendment to the Plan. Modifications or changes to the
vision and goals, the General Eligibility Criteria or Means Test Criteria will require a
formal amendment. Other changes may be considered by way of minor changes or
formal amendment.
6. Implementation
The COVID-19 CIP will be implemented through the provisions of Chapter 22 of the
Clarington Official Plan and Section 28 of the Planning Act, 1990, R.S.O.
The overall implementation of
the Financial Incentive
Programs shall be the
responsibility of the Planning
and Development Services
Department.
All Financial Incentive
Programs will be administered
on a first -come first -served
basis to the limit of available
funding, and in accordance
with the administrative rules
governing this and other
Financial Incentive programs.
f
A J.
J;'
���
���. _�
ilr Ali
1 �• �_
+ --r t,_,
�
Y
-
Patio extension into the oarkinR lot at The Courtvard.
The Financial Incentive Programs can be activated, deactivated, adjusted, or
discontinued at the discretion of Council. Applications will be assessed in accordance
with the Financial Incentive Programs in effect on the date a complete application was
received.
25
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtE)
2029May 5 2021
7. Interpretation
Sections 3, 4 and 5 of this document, along with Figure 1 (Map of CIPA) and the
Appendices shall form the actual CIP for the COVID-19 Community Improvement
Project Area.
This Plan has been prepared in accordance with, and shall be deemed to conform to,
the Clarington Official Plan.
This Plan shall be referred to as the "Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement
Plan".
26
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtO
2029May 5 2021
Glossary
The Glossary is intended to assist interpretation of the COVID-19 CIP.
Arts and Entertainment means businesses primarily engaged in operating facilities or
providing services to meet the cultural, entertainment and recreational interests of their
patrons
Local, Independent Business means a business that is located within Clarington and
is not part of a national or international corporate chain of businesses. For clarity,
independently owned franchises are considered local, independent businesses for the
purpose of this document.
Food Services means a business that is primarily engaged in preparing meals, snacks
and beverages, to customer orders, for consumption on and off the premises
Full -Time Equivalents (FTE) is defined as total hours worked divided by average
annual hours worked in full-time jobs. A Full -Time job is considered one in which an
employee works 30 hours or more per week.
Personal Care Services means businesses that are primarily engaged in providing
personal care services, such as hair care and esthetic services, among others
Registered Medical Practitioner means health professions that are governed under
Ontario's Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 (RHPA) and health profession Acts
(i.e., Medicine Act, 1991)
Retail Stores: means businesses that are primarily engaged in retailing merchandise,
generally without transformation, and rendering services incidental to the sale of
merchandise
27
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtO
20-2-9May 5 2021
APPENDIX A: Clarington COVID-19 Community
Improvement Plan Financial Incentives Program
Details
The following outlines the details of the COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan (CIP)
Financial Incentive Programs, including a description of each type of grant, eligible
projects and costs, the value of the grant opportunity, and any program -specific
eligibility requirements. The information contained in Appendix A shall be read and
applied in conjunction with the COVID-19 CIP in its entirety. For clarity, all projects are
subject to the General Eligibility Criteria and Means Test Criteria detailed in Sections
3.2 and 3.3 of the CIP, respectively.
Physical Distancing Improvements Grant
a. Description
This grant is intended to assist qualifying businesses with improvements to implement
physical distancing measures to safely re -open.
b. Eligible Projects and Costs
This grant may be provided for costs related to the following types of projects to
implement COVID-19 physical distancing measures:
• Installation of protective hygiene screens and/or barriers
• Installation of floor markings to encourage spacing and delineate traffic flow
movements
• Installation of signage and displays related to physical distancing requirements or
recommendations
• Workstation modifications to provide for physical distancing between employees
and between employees and the public
• Physical building modifications or space reconfigurations (e.g. addition or
removal of walls) to optimize business under COVID-19-related requirements or
recommendations
• Such other similar improvements as may be approved by the Director of Planning
and Development Services
c. Value of Grant
Where a project satisfies the eligibility requirements, a Physical Distancing
Improvements grant may be provided for up to 90% of eligible costs to a maximum of
$5,000.
d. Program -Specific Eligibility Criteria
None at this time.
Wo
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtO
20-2-9May 5 2021
Business Adaptation Grant
a. Description
This grant is intended to assist qualifying businesses with physical modifications
required to support operational changes required for the business to continue to
operate or reopen safely.
b. Eligible Projects and Costs
This grant may be provided for costs related to the following types of projects:
• Physical building and/or space modifications to provide for curb -side pick-up
service (e.g. installation of a pick-up window)
• Change room adaptations required in accordance with COVID-19- related
requirements and/or recommendations
• Washroom facility adaptations in accordance with COVID-19-related
requirements or recommendations
• Additional or replacement equipment or furniture required to maintain operations
while implementing safe reopening requirements and/or recommendations
• Such other similar improvements as may be approved by the Director of Planning
and Development Services.
c. Value of Grant
Where a project satisfies the eligibility requirements, a Business Adaptation grant may
be provided for up to 90% of eligible costs to a maximum of $5,000.
d. Program -Specific Eligibility Criteria
None at this time.
COVID-19- Related Improved Ventilation Grant
a. Description
This grant is intended to assist businesses with improvements to enhance ventilation
and air quality within existing buildings to enable businesses to safely re -open and/or
increase customer capacity of indoor spaces in accordance with COVID-19-related
requirements and/or recommendations.
b. Eligible Projects and Costs
This grant may be provided for costs related to the following types of projects:
• Heating and air conditioning/ventilation improvements
• Air purifications systems and air exchange improvements
29
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtO
20-2-9May 5 2021
• Window and door replacements that improve energy efficiency and air
movement, in accordance with COVID-19-related requirements or
recommendations
• Such other similar improvements as may be approved by the Director of Planning
and Development Services
c. Value of Grant
Where a project satisfies the eligibility requirements, a COVID-19-Related Improved
Ventilation grant may be provided for up to 90% of eligible costs to a maximum of
$5,000.
d. Program -Specific Eligibility Criteria
None at this time.
Adaptation to Outdoor Operation Grant
a. Description
This grant is intended to assist qualifying businesses with the cost of construction and
furnishing outdoor patio or seating areas in response to COVID-19 requirements. It is
recognized that the initial reopening of many restaurants and food service outlets was
enabled by the adaptation of outdoor spaces for patios and waiting areas.
b. Eligible Projects and Costs:
This grant may be provided for costs related to the following types of projects:
• Infrastructure and/or furniture for an outdoor patio, seating or waiting areas
• Addition of covered outdoor space to provide shelter for components of
operations that were previously conducted indoors
• Improvements to provide for all season use of outdoor spaces to implement
COVID-19-related requirements.
• Such other similar improvements as may be approved by the Director of Planning
and Development Services.
c. Value of Grant
Where a project satisfies the eligibility requirements, an Adaptation to Outdoor
Operation grant may be provided for up to 90% of eligible costs to a maximum of
$5,000.
d. Program -Specific Eligibility Criteria
None at this time.
30
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtO
2029May 5 2021
COVID-19-Related Technology Improvement Grant
a. Description:
This grant is intended to assist qualifying businesses with the costs of technological
infrastructure required to implement COVID-19-related requirements and/or
recommendations.
b. Eligible Projects and Costs
This grant may be provided for eligible costs related to the following types of
projects:
Physical infrastructure for improving internet connectivity at the business location
(e.g. tower infrastructure, satellite dish, cabling)
Such other similar improvements to modify business practices to continue to
provide products and services at the physical place of business, as may be
approved by the Director of Planning and Development Services
c. Value of Grant
Where a project satisfies the eligibility requirements, a COVID-19-Related
Technology Improvement Grant may be provided for up to 50% of eligible costs to a
maximum of $2,500.
d. Program -Specific Eligibility Criteria
None at this time.
31
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtOber
2029May 5 2021
APPENDIX B: CIP Grant Pre -Application Form
If this information is required in an alternate format, please contact the Accessibility Coordinator at
905-623-3379 ext. 2131.
Graft"a COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan Grant
Pre -Application Form
Municipality of Clarington
Planning Services Department
COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan (CIP) Pre -Application
This Pre -Application Form is intended to provide Planning Services staff with information about the
improvements local businesses are investing in to adapt and manage the impacts of the COVID-19
pandemic. This information will help shape the development of a COVID- 19 Community Improvement
Plan, including grant programs to support COV I D- 1 9-related physical improvement projects.
Upon the approval of the COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan in fall 2020, this document will
become your CIP Application, and staff will evaluate the improvement projects provided for eligibility
in accordance with the approved grant opportunities. By completing and signing this Pre -Application
Form, you acknowledge and agree to the following:
Acknowledgements:
On June 22, Council of the Municipality of Clarington passed a resolution to undertake the
development of a Community Improvement Plan (CIP) to provide support to local businesses
affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, Council directed that the Community
Improvement Plan is intended to focus on businesses in Clarington that:
a. Were forced to shut down as a result of the provincial emergency declaration;
b. Are restaurants with dine -in space that are providing take-out service only;
c. Are independently owned and not part of a national or provincial chain; and
d. Meet a means test, criteria to be determined.
2. The COVID-19 CIP will be developed in accordance with the Planning Act requirements as
follows:
Background & Development
(July/Aug. 2020)
Consult on Draft CIP
(Sept. 2020)
Analysis &
Recommendations
(Sept./Oct. 2020
• Understand existing
■ Hold Statutory Public
• Consider input and
conditions
Meeting to receive input
feedback received on draft
• Consult with local business
on draft CIP
CIP
community
• Draft CIP made available
• Finalize draft CIP
• Review policy and
at least 20 days prior to
. Present final CIP to
regulatory framework
Public Meeting
Council for approval
• Draft CIP
• Draft CIP provided to
• If no appeals received (20-
Province for review and
day appeal period),
comment
Council decision is final,
and CIP is approved
3. CIP Grant funding for COVID-19-related improvement projects will not be issued until the COVID-
19 CIP has been approved by Council and is in effect.
32
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtOber
2029May 5 2021
If this information is required in an alternate format, please contact the Accessibility Coordinator at
905-623-3379 ext. 2131.
►Il COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan Grant
�l Pre -Application Form
Municipality of Clarington
Planning Services ❑enartment
FOR MUNICIPALITY OF CLARINGTON USE ONLY
Date Received:
File Number:
Please check appropriate box(es) next
❑
Physical Distancing Improvements (e.g_
to the category that best describes
protective screening, floor markings,
your proposed improvement(s):
workstation modifications)
❑
Business Adaptation Improvements (e.g.
modifications to accommodate curb -side pick-
up)
❑
Technological Improvements (e.g. physical
infrastructure to support connectivity
improvements)
❑
Other:
1. Contact Information
Registered Owner(s):
Address:
Home:
Business:
Fax:
Email:
Applica nt:
nla
Address:
Home:
Business:
Fax:
Email:
Cheque for CIP funds should be made out to:
(please check one)
❑ Registered Owner name
❑ Applicant name
Property Address:
33
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtO
2029May 5 2021
If this information is required in an alternate format, please contact the Accessibility Coordinator at
905-623-3379 ext. 2131.
►Il COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan Grant
�l Pre -Application Form
Municipality of Clarington
Planning Services Department
1. Eligibility
1.1 Was your business forced to shut down" as a result of the Province's Declaration of
Emergency commencing on March 17, 2020?
❑ Yes
❑■ No
'Adversely affected by the Provincial Emergency Declaration and Regulations
2. Description of the Proposed Improvements
2.1 Please give a detailed description of your proposed COVID-19-related improvements below
(attach an extra page if required). This description should include identification of materials to
be used and full details of the project. You may also attach photographs or drawings to help
describe the proposed improvement.
34
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtOber
2029May 5 2021
If this information is required in an alternate format, please contact the Accessibility Coordinator at
905-623-3379 ext. 2131.
►Il COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan Grant
�l Pre -Application Form
Municipality of Clarington
Planning Services Department
3. Work Estimate
3.1 Please attach estimates or actual costs for each component of the proposed improvements.
Eligible costs shall be the cost of materials, equipment and contracted labour to complete
improvements. If you are applying for more than one category, you will need one estimate for
each. Professional fees such as architects, engineers and solicitors are not considered eligible
costs. Only costs incurred after March 17, 2020 will be considered. Please summarize these
estimates in the table below:
Name/Company
Estimate $
Phone Number
Grant Program
Involved
4. Completeness of this Application Form
When this application is submitted, please ensure you are attaching each of the required
documents. The following must be provided by the applicant for the application to be
considered complete:
❑ Outline of works to be completed;
❑ Details of how the proposed works supports your business during the COVID-19 pandemic
and makes your business more resilient in the future;
n One (1) copy of any permits, licenses, drawings, renderings and/or other materials
necessary to implement the proposed work;
35
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtOber
2029May 5 2021
If this information is required in an alternate format, please contact the Accessibility Coordinator at
905-623-3379 ext. 2131.
►Il COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan Grant
�l Pre -Application Form
Municipality of Clarington
Planning Services Department
Application must be submitted to:
Planning Services Department
Municipality of Clarington
40 Temperance Street, Bowmanville, Ontario, L 1 C 3A6
Phone: 905-623-3379 Toll Free: 1-800-563-1195 Fax: 905-623-0830
5. Signatures and Owner Authorization
Signature of Applicant (if not property owner)
Print Name
Date:
Owner Authorization to complete improvements outlined in this application (if the applicant is NOT the property
owner)
Signature of Property Owner
Print Name
Date:
KET
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGteber
2829May 5 2021
APPENDIX C: Input Received from Local
Businesses
The following includes the responses to survey questions received from local business
owners through consultation on the preparation of the COVID-19 CIP to date.
Responses were gathered through participation in focus groups, direct calls to
businesses, and the CIP pre -application form available on Clarington's website.
Participants were asked the following two questions:
1. What physical improvements have you had to make for your business to be able
to safely reopen?
2. What were the approximate costs of the improvements/changes you have
made?
Responses as received are summarized below.
What physical improvements have you had to make for your business to be able
to safely reopen?
Common Responses Summary
Type of Improvement
Hygiene barriers
Number of
Responses
11
Range of Cost Estimates
__
$400 - $1,500
Outdoor Si na a
13
$300 - $1,200
Create or Enlarge Patio
7
$3,600 - $7,000
Sanitizing Equipment
9
$1,500 - $2,500
Personal Protective Equipment PPE
10
$50 - $100/month
Air Cleaners, Air Monitors, Air
Handlers
3
$1,200
Outdoor Seating/WaitingSeatingfWaiting Area
4
$1,500 - $15,000
Interior Reconfiguration (change
rooms, washrooms, floor plans
Business Adaptation
Operating at Reduced Capacity
13
$1,200 - $3,800
7
$350
11
None provided
Increased Cleaning
6=
None provided
Implemented Contact Tracing
5
None provided
Technology
5
$1,000 - $4,000
General Cost Estimates
10
$500 - $4,000
Retail Stores
- Had to do a lot of same things: hygiene barriers were purchased and installed
- Had to remove and replace fabric seating
37
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtO
20-2-9May 5 2021
- Rearrange clothing racks, stock to make enough space for customers to walk
around and remain physically distanced
- Sanitizing station at entrance
- Clothes — every tried -on item must be steam -sterilized. Lots of work, but alternative
was to put clothes in quarantine for 72 hours at a time
- Purchased distancing stickers and placed on sidewalk
- Opened with only 2 customers able to be in the store at one time
- 2 fitting rooms opened and retrofitted with hard -surface doors (curtains had to be
replaced)
- Acrylic signs to show occupied change room so they can be easily cleaned.
- Were charging $1/mask to customer. We're having to pay $2 per masks at first so'/2
cost absorbed.
- Purchased information signage for entry rules, sanitizing
- Example of operational change - no longer allow customers to wear medical scrubs
in store to reduce potential of contamination
- Bought hygiene screens
- UV machine to sanitize tried -on product. Process takes 3 minutes and alerts process
complete after which the product is returned to display cases. Anything touched gets
sterilized.
- For repair, when someone brings something in, the bag and product are wiped
down, and are then cleaned again before returning.
- Most transactions done with CLOVER pos system/software (works for tap).
- Purchased custom signage
- Markings on sidewalk given from another retailer
- Sterilize doors, counters, etc. with wipes, spray (once to sterilize and once to remove
film from counters).
- Keeps logbook — people don't always want to provide information
- Whole different way of doing business.
- All staff and customers required to wear masks
- Had to put up separating walls to allow visitors to safely come into store and
view/purchase product
- Point of sale protection barrier (to protect cashier and customers)
- Separating wall on the patio to create an outdoor seating area. Barrier walls are
needed because of the layout and where the entrance to the patio is located
- Weather protected drop-off and pick-up station so customers can safely drop-off and
pick-up their product (store is not big enough to have people in the studio while
people are dropping off or picking up
- Purchase technology to implement health check and contact tracing station
- COVI D-1 9-related signage (indoor and outdoor)
MR
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtO
2029May 5 2021
Personal Service and Medical Practitioners
- Registered Massage Therapists (RMT) are required to replace all fabric chairs in
office because of cleaning regime
- Entrance waiting area, everyone is number posted to contact stylist, everyone
sanitized, keep log, waiver to sign, taken to sterilized station (20 min. between each
client). Other area to exit with garbage cans for PPE, etc. Chairs must be replaced
fabric ones. A lot of products are not available (barbicide unavailable) gloves that
chemicals cannot eat through. Hygiene shields, notices on doors, signage
- A mixture of retailer and governed by college and optometrists next to him governed
by separate college
- Put up plexi glass barriers
- Bought UV light to sanitize eyeglass frames that are tried on. Reduces cleaning and
sterilization schedule from 24 hours to machine to five minutes
- Only so many customers can be in store at once. Placed chairs outside for outdoor
waiting room
- Only one optometrist working per day (governed by College of Optometrists)
- Cleaning register required for optometrists to do 15-minute cleaning regimen
between each patient (even same family). Everything taking longer.
- Chairs, doors, etc. everything has to be disinfected after every patient.
- Masks College of Optometrists mandates that mask must be given to patient if the
patient does not have a mask. Cannot charge for masks patient as per OHIP.
- Getting used to it, getting by, better than being closed
- All business is now conducted by appointment for contact tracing
- Interior reconfigured to provide for physical distancing
- Purchased sanitizing equipment
- Modified hours, reduced capacity
- Remove and replace all fabric with materials that can be sufficiently cleaned
- Installed air purification system
- Modified hours of operation
- Installed hygiene screens
- Lots of cleaning products and PPE
- Followed recommendations/guidance from College
- Removed waiting room
- Operating at 60% of previous capacity
- Would really like a grant to help with air purification system
- Workstation and furniture modifications
- Purchased additional equipment for additional treatment room(s) to account for
cleaning requirements in between appointments
39
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtO
2029May 5 2021
Food Services/Restaurants
- Signage
- Sanitizing equipment
- Process to obtain customer contact information
- Constructed and furnished temporary patio to allow restaurant to reopen to
customers
- Rearrange floor plan and tables to maintain 6 feet of distance between tables,
reducing the number of tables/overall capacity
- Considering winter — wondering how that will work
- Wondering about air filtration, winterizing patio
- Had to lay off employees and decrease/modify hours of operation
- Social distancing — dine -in area was closed; recently opened and rearranged
- Purchased physical distancing stickers
- Purchased sanitizing equipment
- Closed tables
- Purchased sanitizers, masks
- Signage, arrows
- Food safe, cleaning tables
- More takeout — dine -in closed
- Plexi screens — biggest costs
- Purchased PPE
- Installed hygiene screens
- Reduced and rearranged tables
- Implemented contact tracing
- PPE and sanitizers
- Signage
- Down 90% sales. '/2 seating removed
- Created disposable menus to reduce potential for contamination
- Expanded and furnished outdoor patio area
- Installed hygiene/privacy screens between outdoor tables
- Many customers are not yet comfortable with indoor dining, so have not yet opened
indoor dining area
- Thinking ahead to preparations required as weather grows colder; indoor space will
have to be reconfigured
- Purchased heaters for patio
- Construction and furnishing of a patio to provide outdoor seating for those who do
not feel comfortable coming inside
- Hygiene barriers as required
Arts and Entertainment Businesses
- Outdoor seating areas and furniture to comply with physical distancing Public Health
recommendations and requirements for children
- Adaptations to washroom facilities
M
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtOber
20-2-OMay 5 2021
- Purchased and implemented PPE and cleaning products/routines
- Technology purchased (walkie talkies) to enable communication between groups of
children to provide for social distancing, and to implement temperature tracking and
contact tracing
- Cancelled children's programming through Spring 2020
- Construction of shelter to provide covered outdoor space to be used throughout all
seasons and during inclement weather
- Invested in upgraded rural internet infrastructure in order to offer more online access
to programs
- Hired additional staff to reduce size of groups participating in programs
- Reconfigured pick-up/drop-off location
- Hygiene barriers
- Floor decals, stickers and signage,
- PPE and sanitizing equipment
- Electrostatic disinfecting equipment
- Technology to implement requirements (headsets)
What were the approximate costs of the improvements/changes you have made?
- Total to start business back up: $1500 to open doors. Costs for sanitizers, etc.
ongoing
- Probably about $3000 spent to reopen
- $3500 — 4000 to do improvements/changes
- Upwards of $3000 so far
- Approximately $1000 so far
- $1000 for hygiene barriers
- $1200 for signage
- $500/month
- About $1300 total spent
- $1500 total for improvements to date
- Approximately $1500
- $3500 to date
- $300 for signage
- $1500 for hygiene screens
- $15,000 for outdoor shelter construction
- $4000 for Technology
- $11000 for outdoor eating area
- $3800 for washroom adaptations
- $1500 for sanitizing supplies
- $1300 required replacement furniture
- $400 for protection barrier
- $1200 for construction of interior walls to provide for physical separation
- Approximately $1500 for construction of outdoor seating area
- Approximately $350 for adaptations to create a curbside pick-up station
41
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtOber
202OMay 5 2021
- $2000 for technology
- Approximately $3600 to construct and furnish patio
- $600 for hygiene screens and barriers
- $2500 Disinfecting Technology
- $1000 Headsets
W
DRAFT REVISED Clarington COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan OGtObe
2829May 5 2021
APPENDIX D: Notice of Statutory Public Meeting
Community News & Notices
2019 Final Property Tax Bill
Due: Thursday, September 17, 2020
Taxes on newly -constructed homes
Ownerswill receive tax bills forthe value of the
"land" only, excluding buildings, until MPAC
assesses your house. once assessed, we will issue
supplementary tax billsforthe house, retrooettve
to the data of possession. Th is process can take up
to two you rsand the tax bills will be due within a
short time period. Pre -payments can be made to
assist homeowners with planning for those future
supplementary tax bills.
For more information, annual tax estimates and
paymentoptions, call 905-623-3379 art. 2650 or
visit www.clarington.not/taxos
Puhlic Meering: COVID•19 Communiry
Improvement Plan
Monday, September 28 at 7 p.m.
Virtual Microsoft Teams meeting,
livestroamod for public viewing at
www.clorington.not/ calendar.
The Municipality is seeking public comments before
making a decision on a municipal -wide COVID-19
Community Improvement Plan (CIP). Once approved,
the CIP will provide support for qualifying local
business ownersforCOVID-19-related improvements
mado To?he ir bus inessosTo reopen safely. The CIP
ccmains f noncial incentives designed to encourage
and support private- sector im proveme nts to adapt to
the COV I D-19 a nvi ro n rn ant.
The draft COVID-19 CIP, pre -applications form and
additonaI information is available for review at the
Planning and Development Services Department and
on at www.clari ngton. not/ Fi no ncial Support
on September 8, 2020.
Questions about the COVID-19 CIP?
For more information about this matter, including
information about appeal rights, contact Sarah All in
at 905- 623 -3 379, ext. 2419 or
sal lin@clari ngton.n ot.
How to Provide Comments
Our procedures have changod as we continuo to
ado ptTo?he COVID-19 pandemic. As mandated by
Public Heath, to maintain physical distan c ing, these
meetings will take place electronically using an online
device ortelephone.
f you wish to speak at the public meeting, please
pre -register and you will he provided with further
instructions. Pre -register by completing the online
form otwww.claringion.nor/delogalions or
contact the Clerk's Department at 905-623-3379
ow. 2109 or clerks@clarington.net by Friday,
September 25, 2020 at 3:30 p.m. If you are unable
to participate electronically, please contoothe
Clerk's Departmentandwe will do our utmostto
accommodate you.
We encourage you to sub rnitwritten cammenisfor
Corn mime'scon sideration to Sarah All in atsal lin@
clarington.netor by mail or drop box to d0
Temperance Street; Bowmanville, ON L1C 3A6 prior
to the date of the public meeting.
Me hlumbar. PEN a76
Freedom of informarton and Protocftan of
PrlrvcyAct
The personal infartwrron you submit Yll become
part of rho pubNc record and may be released to rho
public. Questions about the Information we collect
can be cheered to the Clerk's Depcmmenr or
905-623-3379r exr 2102.
Accesslr' try
lFyou have acressfbfty needs and require ahernm
formars of th is document or other accom modartons
please ccnraLF the AccessibWi r Coordmaror ar
905-623-3379 env. 2131.
Live Q & Awi1h Mayot Faster
Join Clarington Mayo rAdrion
Foster for o Face book Live Q&A:
Friday, Soptembor 11,
from 3t3o to d p.m.
Find out about+a continued
impactsof COVID-19on Municipal
services. Also learn about our
full recreation programming. Join
us at vvvrw.facobook+eaW
Munc KlarnWan
Rediscover Clarington
Clarington Tourism is celebrating
and highlighting local businesses
and attractions. Gat out and an joy
ou r baa utifu I trai Is, wate rfronts, a nd
supportaur IQcaI economy. Tog us
using fRediscoverClorin9".
www.daringtontourism.nor
MEW" 1
Twtis!%
V Careers
Join our ream. Yew
current job postings at
www.claringroniwt/comers
E Subscribe
Stay up-to-date on the
local municipal nays.
w w. derma nrW/subscrbe
Discover
Plana trip, download our
maps + explore.
www.dr: ngrorvour ism oat
43
Attachment 3 to Report PDS-034-21
Businesses in Clarington can now apply
for grant funding through the COVID-19
Community Improvement Plan (CIP).
The COVID-19 CIP was developed to
help qualifying businesses with costs
incurred as a result of implementing
safety measures to adapt to the COVID-19
pandemic. The COVID-19 CIP will provide
support to businesses to make physical
modifications to operate safely, following
Public Health protocols.
Financial Incentive Programs
The CIP will provide grant funding for a variety of safety measures with eligible projects
receiving up to 90 per cent of costs up to a maximum of $5,000. The Technology
Improvement Grant will cover 50 per cent of costs up to a maximum of $2,500.
programHow the
Physical Distancing Improvements Grant
Implement physical distancing
Protective hygiene screens and/or barriers
zm measures to operate or reopen
Floor markings to encourage spacing and flow
safely.
Signage and displays related to physical distancing
• Physical building modifications or reconfigurations
Business Adaptation Grant
Physical modifications necessary
• Building and/or space modifications to provide for
MIMM
I to support operational changes
curbside pickup service
. Change room adaptations
required for the business to continue
. Washroom adaptations
to operate or reopen safely.
• Additional or replacement equipment/furniture
COVID-19-Related Improved Ventilation Grant
Retrofit and enhance ventilation and
' Heating and air conditioning/ventilation
air quality within existing buildings
improvements
' Improved air purifications systems and air
in accordance with COVID-19-related
exchange
public health requirements and
recommendations.
• Window and door replacements that improve
energy efficiency and air movement
Adaptation to Outdoor Operation Grant
Cost of construction and furnishing
• Infrastructure/furniture for an outdoor patio,
of outdoor patio and/or seating
seating or waiting areas
• Addition of covered outdoor space
areas in response to COVID-19
• Improvements to provide all -season
requirements and recommendations.
outdoor spaces
COVID-19-Related Technology Improvement Grant
*on1 Cost of technological hardware
I'► required to safely provide access to
. Physical infrastructure to improve internet
0 the business' products and services.
connectivity
COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan ciffftwil
www.clarington.net/FinancialSupport
General Eligibility Criteria
,Or Eligible businesses include
local, independent retail
stores, food services, arts
and entertainment, personal
care services and medical
practitioners.
110 The business must
operate from a location
in Clarington, and be open to
the public.
The business must
have been open before
March 17, 2020.
DThe business must have
no fewer than two full-time
equivalent (FTE) employees and
no more than 50 FTE employees
as of March 17, 2020. Food
service businesses must have no
more than 100 FTE employees.
For medical practitioners,
no more than three licensed
practitioners.
The project must align with
the COVID-19 CIP vision
and goals.
The project must follow
the Clarington Official
Plan, Zoning By-laws, and
relevant legislation.
The business must not be
a Home Occupation as per
the Zoning By-law.
Completed projects
must meet the Program
descriptions and be approved
through the application process.
Financial Incentive
Programs may be
combined up to a maximum of
$10,000. All other applications
must be declared.
All work must have taken
place after the Ontario
Government declared a state of
emergency on March 17, 2020.
The property must be in
good standing related to
municipal fees, charges, and
taxes.
The business must meet
all general and program -
specific criteria, and satisfy a
means test.
Application and Program Process
® Applicants CIP Grant I Staff will
may consult rl/
applications are ;) review the
Municipal submitted with application
staff to all supporting to determine if it's
discuss their information. (Eg. project complete. If required,
application/project description, estimates/ staff will contact the
to determine what invoices, permits, licences, applicant to request
information is drawings, or renderings) additional information
required.
_ Approved Work may Once the
applicants begin r03P0 project is
are notified D5 oncethe complete,
with a letter application the applicant
outlining conditions has been conditionally advises the Municipality
of approval, when approved. Applicants Staff may conduct an
payment will occur, and applying for completed inspection and request
any other applicable COVID-19 Projects may the applicant provide
matters. Unapproved still be eligible and are photos of the work.
applicants are notified subject to a limited Staff will determine if
and provided reasons application period. the project meets all
for refusal, they conditions in the letter
can contact staff to of approval.
address any issues.
Once the
i
application
is complete,
staff
will review the
application, and
circulate the
application to
relevant Municipal
Departments.
The
Municipality
issues the
grant once
Oall conditions are
met. Grants will be
given on a first -come,
first -serve basis and
are limited by the
available funding
Council allocated.
COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan
www.clarington.net/FinancialSupport
c1tvi"n
Attachment 4 to Report PDS-034-21
COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan Amendment No. 1: Proposed Amendment Summary Chart
May 2021
Section
Existing
Proposed
Comments/Rationale
3.2 General
In the case of Registered Medical Practitioners, the business
Add:
Clarify that in the case of Registered Medical Practitioners,
Eligibility
must have no more than three licensed practitioners.
In the case of Registered Medical Practitioners, the
the maximum number of licensed practitioners refers to
Criteria #4
business must have no more than three licensed
practitioners from the same profession.
ractitioners from the same profession.
3.3 Means
Demonstrate a minimum of 30 per cent loss of revenue over
Modify:
Adjust the period within which the revenue loss is measured
Test Criteria
the period between March 2020 and September 2020 relative
Demonstrate a minimum of 30 per cent loss of
from a six-month period (March -Sept.) of 2020 relative to
#1
to the same period in 2019, or an alternative period defined
revenue during the most recent fiscal year relative
2019 to a 12-month period between the most recent fiscal
by and to the satisfaction of the Director of
to the 2019 fiscal year over the period between
year and that of pre -pandemic 2019.
Finance/Treasurer;
March 2020 and September 2020 relative to the
This proposed change will take into account businesses'
same period in 2019, or an alternative period
revenue loss during the second and third wave lockdowns,
defined by and to the satisfaction of the Director of
as well as eliminate the seasonality component of many
Finance/Treasurer.
businesses' annual revenue.
3.3 Means
Demonstrate a minimum of 30 per cent loss of revenue over
Add:
Businesses that opened within the year preceding March
Test Criteria
the period between March 2020 and September 2020 relative
Businesses that opened prior to March 2020 but did
2020 have not been able to satisfy the minimum 30%
#1
to the same period in 2019, or an alternative period defined
not have a full prior fiscal year are still eligible,
revenue loss as the business would not have had a full year
by and to the satisfaction of the Director of
provided all other General Eligibility and Means Test
revenue prior to the onset of the pandemic.
Finance/Treasurer;
Criteria are met;
This addition is intended to address this technicality to
achieve the intent of the criteria. The Ontario Small Business
Grant Program has a similar exemption for newer
businesses.
3.3. Means
Demonstrate that the business, including related business
Delete:
Remove the requirement for applicants to submit personal
Test Criteria
under common ownership, had retained earnings:
Subsection b)
financial information.
#4
a. If incorporated, not exceeding $500,000 per arm's length
Feedback has identified applicants are reluctant to provide
shareholder at the end of the preceding fiscal year; or
b. If unincorporated, assets of the owner(s) not
information about their personal finances.
b. If unincorporated, assets of the owner(s) not exceeding
exceeding $500,000 net of
$500,000 net of debt for each owner;
debt for each owner
3.3. Means
Declare that the business has not received any other grant
Modify:
Modify the criteria to address the many COVID-19-related
Test Criteria
funding related to COVID-19, with the exception of grants
Declare that the business has not received any other
grant programs that have been introduced since Clarington's
#7
issued in accordance with the Canada Emergency Wage
grant funding for the purpose of assisting with
COVID-19 CIP was implemented, while maintaining the
Subsidy (CEWS) Program and the Canada Emergency
expenses related to the projects identified in the
intent of the criteria to prevent the business from receiving
Commercial Rent Assistance Program.
application for the Financial Incentive Programs
funding from different sources for the same project.
herein.
4.3
Applications seeking grant funding for projects completed
Modify:
The intent is to reinstate the three-month retroactive intake
Application
between March 17, 2020 and the date the COVID-19 CIP
Applications seeking grant funding for projects
window upon the amended CIP coming into effect, thereby
Process and
comes into effect will be subject to a limited application intake
completed between March 17, 2020 and the date the
providing businesses that may qualify under the amended
Submission
period. The deadline for such applications will be three
COVID-19 CIP comes into effect will be subject to a
Plan an opportunity to apply for funding for completed
Requirements
months from the effective date of the COVID-19 CIP.
limited application intake period. The deadline for
projects dating back to March 2020.
for Financial
such applications will be three months from the
Incentive
effective date of the COVID-19 CIP, as amended.
Programs #6
Page 1 of 2
Section
Existing
Proposed
Comments/Rationale
Glossary;
Local, Independent Business means a business that is
Add:
Clarify that for the purpose of this Plan, franchises that are
Local
located within Clarington and is not part of a national or
Local, Independent Business means a business that
independently owned and operated would be considered
Independent
international corporate chain of businesses
is located within Clarington and is not owned and
eligible for the Financial Incentive Programs, provided they
Business
operated by a national or international corporate
are able to meet all other applicable criteria.
chain of businesses. For clarity, independently
Feedback has been received suggesting the nature of
owned and operated franchises are considered
investment of the owner of a franchise is similar to that of a
local, independent businesses for the purposes
small business owner.
of this document.
Notes:
One -page summary sheet and application form updates will be required to align with proposed amendments
Page 2of2