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BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Majority of Ontario to enter into Phase 3 of province’s reopening framework on Friday July 17th – most of GTA and select southern Ontario communities to remain in phase 2 for now

Jul. 13, 2020

No. 20/046 – July 13, 2020

Issue:

The Ontario government announced today that the majority of the province will be entering Stage 3 of its reopening framework at midnight Friday July 17^th. Communities in 10 public health units will be required to remain at Stage 2 for the time being. Decisions on which regions will enter from Stage 2 to Stage 3 have been based on 4 weeks of positive trend data. Given the trend performance and length of time that communities have already spent in Stage 2, Toronto and the GTAH could potentially enter into Stage 3 by next Monday.

As part of the Stage 3 reopening, Ontario will be increasing gathering limits for those regions entering the next stage to the following:

Indoor gathering limits will increase to a maximum of 50 people;
Outdoor gathering limits will increase to a maximum of 100 people;
Gathering limits are subject to physical distancing requirements.

Public gathering limits apply to indoor and outdoor events, such as community events or gatherings, concerts, live shows, festivals, conferences, sports and recreational fitness activities, fundraisers, fairs, festivals or open houses. A two metre distance must still be maintained at such events. For more information on the restrictions that will remain in place during Stage 3, as well as public health guidance please visit Ontario.ca/reopen.

Those regions remaining in Stage 2 will maintain the existing gathering limit of 10. Social circles in all stages at this point will also be kept to a maximum of 10 people province-wide, regardless of stage.

The following public health unit regions will be allowed to move into Stage 3 first, on Friday, July 17, 2020:

Algoma Public Health
Brant County Health Unit
Chatham-Kent Public Health
Eastern Ontario Health Unit
Grey Bruce Health Unit
Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit
Hastings Prince Edward Public Health
Huron Perth Public Health
Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox & Addington Public Health
Leeds Grenville & Lanark District Health Unit
Middlesex-London Health Unit
North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit
Northwestern Health Unit
Ottawa Public Health
Peterborough Public Health
Porcupine Health Unit
Public Health Sudbury & Districts
Region of Waterloo Public Health and Emergency Services
Renfrew County and District Health Unit
Simcoe-Muskoka District Health Unit
Southwestern Public Health
Thunder Bay District Health Unit
Timiskaming Health Unit
Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health

The following public health units are remaining in Stage 2:

Durham Region Health Department
Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit
Halton Region Public Health
Hamilton Public Health Services
Lambton Public Health
Niagara Region Public Health
Peel Public Health
Toronto Public Health
Windsor-Essex County Health Unit
York Region Public Health

Businesses and municipalities will be permitted to enter Stage 3 based on their region and, as in the previous stages, may choose to take more time before reopening. Businesses and sectors that are not able to reopen or who are experiencing significant challenges for reopening due to Stage 3 restrictions can visit Ontario.ca/reopen to work with the government to develop a reopening proposal that will enable them to safely resume or increase operations. Government and public health officials will review proposals and contact businesses for feedback or clarifications.

At the beginning of each week, the province will continue to reassess local trends in public health indicators, including rates of transmission, hospital capacity, progress on testing and contact tracing, to determine if additional public health unit regions can progress to Stage 3. The Chief Medical Officer of Health and other public health experts will continue to closely monitor the evolving situation to advise when public health restrictions can be further loosened or if they need to be tightened or reapplied.

As the province enters Stage 3, child care centres and home child care providers across Ontario will be able to continue to operate with strict safety and operational requirements in place. Beginning on July 27, 2020, child care centres will be permitted to operate with cohorts of 15 children, which is an increase from the current cohort cap of 10.

The government has released over 170 safety guidance resources at Ontario.ca/COVIDsafety. Guidance will be available for all spaces permitted to open in Stage 3. As they prepare to reopen, employers are strongly advised to review and implement appropriate measures to help protect their communities.

If you have any questions about this bulletin do not hesitate to contact David Zurawel at [email protected] or Catherine Morrison, [email protected]. Please note that CEO has closed its office but employees remain active at this time.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Ontario extends Emergency Orders to July 22, 2020

Jul. 9, 2020

No. 20/044 – July 9, 2020

Issue:

The Ontario government, in consultation with Ontario's Chief Medical Officer of Health, has extended all emergency orders currently in force that were made under s.7.0.2(4) of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act to July 22, 2020.

The extension of the emergency orders will allow for the redeployment of frontline staff in long-term care facilities, retirement homes and other congregate care settings, like women's shelters and residential services. In addition, the extension would allow public health units to redeploy or hire staff to support case management and contact tracing.

The government intends to extend emergency orders to align with the Reopening Ontario (A Flexible Response to COVID-19) Act, 2020, if passed. This proposed legislation is part of the government's plan to reopen Ontario while taking into consideration the ongoing impacts of COVID-19 even after the provincial declaration of emergency has ended. The bill, if passed, would allow Ontario to continue its recovery efforts by easing restrictions where appropriate, while maintaining select tools to address the ongoing threat of this deadly virus and protect Ontarians.

A full list of emergency orders can be found on the e-Laws website under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act and at Ontario.ca/alert.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: UPDATE: Bill 171 Building Transit Faster Act, 2020, passed into law by Ontario Legislature

Jul. 7, 2020

No. 20/043 – July 7, 2020

Issue:

Today, Bill 171, the Building Transit Faster Act, 2020, was passed into law. The legislation enables the province to expedite the delivery of four priority transit projects in the GTA, namely, (i) the Ontario Line; (ii) the Scarborough subway extension; (iii) the Yonge North subway extension; and (iv) the Eglinton Crosstown West extension.

The Act will expedite the planning, design and construction process for the four priority subway projects by:

Enabling relocation of utilities;
Enabling the assembly of land required to construct stations, conduct tunneling and prepare sites;
Ensuring timely access to municipal services and rights-of-way;
Allowing the province to conduct due diligence work and remove physical barriers with appropriate notification to property owners; and,
Ensuring nearby developments or construction projects are coordinated so they do not cause delays.
In addition to the passage of Bill 171, the province continues to plan to invest $2.6 billion dollars to expand and repair Ontario’s highways.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Ontario Extends Emergency Orders to July 10, 2020

Jun. 29, 2020

No. 20/041 – June 29, 2020

Issue:

The Ontario government has extended all emergency orders currently in force that were made under s.7.0.2 (4) of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act until July 10, 2020. This decision was made in consultation with Ontario's Chief Medical Officer of Health to ensure the gradual reopening of the province on a regional basis can continue as part of Ontario's Framework for Reopening the Province.

The extension of the emergency orders will allow frontline health care providers and public health units to redeploy staff where they are needed most, while providing the government with the tools it needs to move the province into the next stage of reopening.

On June 24, Ontario announced the extension of the Declaration of Emergency to July 15, allowing the province to continue to make or amend emergency orders under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act. The government continues to review all these emergency orders to determine when and if it is safe to amend or lift them as restrictions are eased and more places in the province reopen in a safe and measured way.

A full list of emergency orders can be found on the e-Laws website under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act and at Ontario.ca/alert.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Ontario extends the provincial Declaration of Emergency to July 15th, 2020

Jun. 24, 2020

No. 20/040 – June 24, 2020

Issue:

In consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, the Ontario government has extended the provincial Declaration of Emergency under s.7.0.7 of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act to July 15, 2020. This extension, approved by the Ontario Legislature earlier today, provides Ontario with the additional time, flexibility, and the necessary tools to respond to COVID-19.

The provincial Declaration of Emergency enables the government to make, and as needed amend, emergency orders. Emergency orders in force under the Declaration of Emergency include but are not limited to:

Allowing frontline care providers to redeploy staff to areas most in need
Limiting long-term care and retirement home employees to working at one home
Enabling public health units to redeploy or hire staff to support the province's enhanced case management and contact tracing strategy

These measures are in place to provide aid to seniors and other vulnerable populations. The extension of the Declaration of Emergency will also allow the province to make or amend emergency orders as needed as it continues to ease restrictions in support of its phased reopening.

The government will also continue to monitor public health trends related to COVID-19 and assess on an ongoing basis whether the provincial Declaration of Emergency needs to be extended further. The province will continue to review emergency orders currently in place to determine when and if it is safe to amend or lift them as more places in the province are allowed to reopen in a safe and measured way.

As of June 24^th, 2020, 33 public health unit regions have entered Stage 2 of the Framework for Reopening our Province, allowing more businesses and services. The Windsor-Essex County public health unit region remains in Stage 1 and the situation in the region will continue to be assessed on an ongoing basis.

A full list of emergency orders can be found on the e-Laws website under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act and at Ontario.ca/alert.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Ontario moves City of Toronto and Peel Region into Stage 2 of the province’s reopening framework

Jun. 22, 2020

No. 20/039 – June 22, 2020

Issue:

In consultation with the Chief Medical Officer and local medical officers of health, the Ontario government is moving the City of Toronto and Peel Region into Stage 2. It is based on positive local trends of key public health indicators, including lower transmission of COVID-19, ongoing hospital capacity, public health capacity to do rapid case and contact management, and an increase in testing.

Toronto Public Health and Peel Public Health will enter Stage 2 on Wednesday, June 24, 2020 at 12:01 a.m. They will join the 31 other public health regions that entered Stage 2 on June 12 and 19, 2020.

Windsor-Essex will remain in Stage 1 and the situation in the region will continue to be assessed on an ongoing basis. To ensure the region is able to move forward as soon as it is safe to do so, the province is building on the work completed by Windsor-Essex County Health Unit to date and collaborating with federal and local authorities to support the implementation of a targeted and collaborative response that includes:

Proactive targeted testing for agri-food workers
Conducting Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development on-farm inspections and investigations;
Starting new joint inspections of farms with federal authorities to review current working and living conditions of temporary foreign workers;
Providing $15 million through the Enhanced Agri-food Workplace Protection program, which provides cost-share funding to improve employee and workplace health and safety on farms and in processing facilities;
Translating COVID-19 health and safety guidance documents into Spanish and posting them on Ontario.ca/covidsafety; and
Providing specific funding to Workplace Safety and Prevention Services to deliver resources and consulting services

The Chief Medical Officer of Health has also strongly recommended that local medical officers of health use their authority under section 22 of the Health Protection and Promotion Act to issue class orders to ensure that employers of temporary workers take actions to decrease the risk of transmission of COVID-19 on farms. These actions will ensure:

All foreign workers self-isolate for 14 days from the date of their arrival;
All workers coming from any area where there is community transmission have tested negative for COVID-19 within 48 hours prior to beginning work;
Daily active screening;
Accurate and updated contact information of permanent, temporary and contract employees available to the public health unit within 24 hours and ensuring employees are assigned to the same group to support effective case management and contact tracing;
Physical distancing maintained between workers as best as possible and personal protective equipment to be provided based on risk assessment; and
All legislative requirements to protect worker health and safety are followed.

The Chief Medical Officer of Health and health experts will continue to closely monitor the evolving situation in all regions of the province to advise when public health restrictions can be gradually loosened or if they need to be tightened.

Although restrictions are being gradually relaxed in Stage 2, the government is strongly recommending that everyone in Ontario follow public health advice, including physical distancing, wearing a face covering if physical distancing is a challenge, washing hands frequently and thoroughly, and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Ontario enhancing COVID-19 case and contact management protocols

Jun. 19, 2020

No. 20/038 – June 19, 2020

Issue:

The Ontario government has announced that it is enhancing case and contact management to test, trace and isolate cases of COVID-19 to stop the spread of the virus and prepare for potential future waves. These additional measures include a comprehensive case and contact management strategy, Protecting Ontarians through Enhanced Case and Contact Management.

The government's strategy focuses on standardizing case and contact management by:

Ensuring that all new cases and their close contacts are identified early, contacted quickly, investigated thoroughly and are followed up with daily for up to 14 days;
Supporting public health units with up to 1,700 additional staff from Statistics Canada;
Improving technology tools by modernizing the integrated Public Health Information System (iPHIS) through the implementation of a new custom-built COVID-19 case and contact management system; and
Launching a privacy-first exposure notification app to alert Ontarians when they may have been exposed to COVID-19.

Ontario is also providing updated case and contact management guidance for all public health units. To continue to ensure cases and their contacts are reached public health units will do the following:

Connect with cases, and with all individuals who have had close contact with a positive case, within 24 hours of being identified;
Direct all close contacts to self-isolate for up to 14 days;
Follow up with close contacts every day for the duration of their self-isolation; and
Advise testing of all appropriate close contacts.

To augment the current provincial capacity of approximately 2,000 case managers and contact tracers, Ontario is providing additional contact tracing staff. Public Health Ontario will continue overseeing the training and coordination of these additional resources.

The province is also partnering with the federal government to launch COVID Alert, a new privacy-first exposure notification app. Users will be able to voluntarily download the app and be notified anonymously if they have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days. In Ontario, the app will also provide users with quick access to Ontario's public health advice and resources, and recommend any necessary actions, such as monitoring for symptoms, self-isolation or appropriate next steps on getting tested.

Additionally, Ontario is implementing a new user-friendly case and contact management system that will integrate with COVID-19 laboratory results from the Ontario Laboratory Information System (OLIS) data, making current processes significantly more efficient and reducing the administrative burden for public health unit staff.

The government continues to emphasis that everyone should follow public health guidelines to stay safe, including physical distancing with people not in your social circle, wearing a face covering if physical distancing is a challenge, washing your hands thoroughly and frequently, and, if you think you have COVID-19 or have been in contact with someone who has COVID-19, getting tested.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Ontario releases Spring 2020 P3 Market Update – recommits to infrastructure investment plan

Jun. 19, 2020

No. 20/037 – June 19, 2020

Issue

Infrastructure Minister Laurie Scott along with Infrastructure Ontario President and Chief Executive Officer, Ehren Cory, this afternoon released the Spring 2020 Ontario P3 Market Update.

Building on the government’s September 2019 launch of a new procurement and planning pipeline the Spring 2020 P3 Market Update consists of 37 P3 projects valued at more than $60 billion, including:

17 civil (such as transit, subways, highways);
16 health care;
three community safety; and,
one children’s treatment centre.

Thirteen of these projects are currently in procurement with an additional 24 projects in the pre-transaction phase. Thirteen more projects are early in the planning process and have yet to be confirmed that they will enter the P3 pipeline.

The most notable changes with this update are the additional details provided for transit and subway work, including the three RFPs for the Ontario Line, the addition of two significant highway projects and the reaffirmation of the commitment to health care investment.

Minister Scott and Ehren Cory both noted that the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic will continue to influence the provincial infrastructure market’s ability to undertake, execute and complete projects for the foreseeable future. This will in turn affect government procurement activities, including the scheduling and sequencing of projects. Recognizing these challenges, they noted that the fall market update will have additional project details not included in today’s document. They also noted that it may be necessary to modify the current published timing of projects on the pipeline, but that the government’s commitments to infrastructure investment were firm as the pipeline is viewed as an important element to Ontario’s recovery plan.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Ontario Releases Guide on How to Develop a Workplace Safety Plan

Jun. 18, 2020

No. 20/036 – June 18, 2020

Issue:

The Ontario government has published a new general workplace guide, which will assist employers develop a safety plan to help protect workers, customers and clients. The new downloadable toolkit offers guidance on how to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 as more people get back on the job during Stage 2 of the reopening of the province.

The new guide will help each employer create a safety plan that is right for their own unique workplace. It includes information on the use of face coverings, as well as applying controls in the workplace. It also includes information on what personal protective equipment may be needed for workers. Please click here to read the guide.

The workplace guide is accompanied by a template that employers can fill in to develop their own unique COVID-19 safety plan. The materials will help employers with the following:

Identify the risks for transmitting the virus through person-to-person contact and actions such as touching faces with hands that have been contaminated by contact with surfaces and objects;
Determine what controls are needed to help mitigate risk, such as engineering controls like the installation of plexiglass to separate workers from customers, administrative controls limiting the number of workers in a space at one time, and personal protective equipment including face and eye protection;
Create a workplace safety plan based on the identified risks and appropriate controls specific to the employer's workplace;
Implement the plan in the workplace, and review and update it as the situation evolves; and
Communicate the actions being taken to workers and other people entering the workplace.

The new guide is reinforced by 121 workplace resources available at Ontario.ca/covidsafety to help protect workers from the virus.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Ontario Extends Emergency Orders until June 30, 2020

Jun. 18, 2020

No. 20/035 – June 18, 2020

Issue:

The Ontario government has extended all emergency orders currently in force under s.7.0.2 (4) of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act until June 30, 2020. While current emergency orders will remain in place, the government will review each order to determine if it can be safely adjusted or lifted as part of the province’s framework to reopen the province.

Over the past week, the government announced 31 public health unit regions across the province may proceed to Stage 2 of its Framework for Reopening the Province to will allow additional businesses and services to reopen.

Additionally, larger social gatherings of up to 10 people are now allowed in all parts of the province, and people are encouraged to create or join a “social circle”. It is important to note the difference between social circles and social gatherings. Social gatherings are people from outside your household, limited to 10 people. Social circles are voluntary and include members of your household and include of no more than 10 people who can interact with one another without physical distancing.

Please see the following actions permissible in social circles:

do not have to physically distance
can hug and touch each other
should continue to follow public health advice, including frequently washing their hands and taking everyday actions to help stop the spread of COVID-19

To learn how to create a social circle, please see the step-by-step guide.

The government continues to emphasize that people should continue to follow public health guidelines, including practicing physical distancing, wearing a face covering where physical distancing is a challenge and washing their hands thoroughly and frequently. Anyone who is worried they may have COVID-19, or who may have been exposed to the virus, is encouraged to go for testing.

A full list of emergency orders can be found on the e-Laws website under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act and at Ontario.ca/alert.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks delays new Excess Soil Regulation and amends the Records of Site Condition Regulation

Jun. 16, 2020

No. 20/034 – June 16, 2020

Excess Soil Regulation Delay:

The Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks has announced that it will be delaying the implementation of the excess soil regulation due to COVID-19. Provisions that would have come into effect on July 1, 2020 are being temporarily delayed until January 1, 2021. The ministry’s current waste regulatory framework will continue to apply during this time and the ministry will take action with any non-compliance or to address any concerns as it applies to the management and disposal of excess soil.

The ministry will also continue to work with municipalities and other stakeholders to:

understand and implement the regulatory changes
encourage early adoption of changes as appropriate

Background:

In December 2019, the Lieutenant General in Council made the new On-Site and Excess Soil Management Regulation, O. Reg. 406/19 (excess soil regulation) under the Environmental Protection Act (EPA). The excess soil regulation clarifies rules related to the reuse and management of excess soil, including:

Standards for appropriate reuse of excess soil
When excess soil is designated as a waste
When waste-related approvals are required for soil management under Part V of the EPA

Other implementation dates in the excess soil regulation have not changed, including implementation of provisions dealing with the excess soil management planning requirements and the Registry which remain coming into effect on January 1, 2022, as well as other provisions on January 1, 2025. Similarly, the excess soil regulation will continue to grandfather contracts related to excess soil management entered into before January 1, 2021.

Amendment to the Records of Site Condition Regulation

The Ministry has also amended O. Reg. 153/04 (Records of Site Condition Regulation), to exempt temporary health facilities or residential facilities that are built on land previously used for community or commercial purposes in response to emergencies declared under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act.

As temporary health or residential facilities are considered a sensitive use under the Environmental Protection Act, a Records of Site Condition (RSC) is required to be filed in the Environmental Site Registry before the facility can be established on property or in a building that is used for a less sensitive use, such as an industrial, commercial or community use.

Filing an RSC requires:

Retaining a qualified person
Conducting one or more environmental site assessments
Possible soil remediation

These requirements take a significant amount of time and would create delays where temporary facilities are required to urgently respond to a declared emergency.

This exemption would apply to:

A temporary facility established in response to the current emergency, such as COVID-19 testing tents or isolated medical structures
The establishment of a temporary facility responding to any future declared emergencies, including any future phases of the pandemic

All other requirements that are part of the ministry’s legislative framework, including the regulation of waste management and discharges to the natural environment, would continue to apply to the operation of these temporary facilities, and the ministry will take action in response to environmental concerns, if they emerge.

Please click here to read further details on this bulletin.

If you have any questions about this bulletin do not hesitate to contact David Zurawel at [email protected] or Catherine Morrison, [email protected]o.on.ca. Please note that CEO has closed its office but employees remain active at this time.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: More regions of Ontario allowed to enter Stage 2 of the province’s reopening framework

Jun. 16, 2020

No. 20/033 – June 16, 2020

Issue:

The government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health and local medical officers of health, is allowing more regions of the province to enter Stage 2. These regions are able to reopen due to positive trends of key public health indicators at the local level, including lower transmission of COVID-19, sufficient hospital health system capacity, local public health capacity to assist with rapid case and contact management, and a significant increase in testing provincially.

Please see the latest public health unit regions that will be moving into Stage 2 on Friday, June 19, 2020 at 12:01 a.m.:

Durham Region Health Department;
Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit;
Halton Region Health Department;
Hamilton Public Health Services;
Lambton Health Unit;
Niagara Region Public Health Department; and
York Region Public Health Services

These regions are in addition to the 24 public health regions that entered Stage 2 on June 12, 2020. Please click here to read CEO’s bulletin on Stage 2.

The following regions will remain in Stage 1 under ongoing assessment until trends of key public health indicators demonstrate readiness to move into Stage 2:

Peel Public Health;
Toronto Public Health; and
Windsor-Essex County Health Unit

All Ontarians must continue to follow public health advice, including practicing physical distancing, wearing a face covering if physical distancing is a challenge, washing hands frequently and thoroughly, and avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth. If you think you have COVID-19 or have been in contact with someone who has COVID‑19, the province is urging immediate testing.

The Chief Medical Officer of Health and health experts will continue to closely monitor the evolving situation to advise when public health restrictions can be gradually loosened or if they need to be tightened.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Most of Ontario reopening under regional plan for Stage 2 – GTHA and southern border regions to remain at Stage 1

Jun. 8, 2020

No. 20/032 – June 8, 2020

Issue:

The Ontario government has announced that it is moving forward with a regional approach to Stage 2 of the province’s reopening framework. In consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health and local health officials, the government is easing restrictions in communities where it is safe to do so, based on trends of key public health indicators such as lower rates of transmission, increased capacity in hospitals, and progress made in testing. Please click here for more details on Stage 2.

Effective Friday, June 12, 2020 at 12:01 a.m., the province will increase the limit on social gatherings from five (5) to ten (10) people across the province, regardless of whether a region has moved to Stage 2. Additionally, all places of worship in Ontario will also be permitted to open with physical distancing in place and attendance limited to no more than 30 per cent of the building capacity.

Public health unit regions allowed to move into Stage 2 on Friday, June 12 at 12:01 a.m. include:

Algoma Public Health
Brant County Health Unit
Chatham-Kent Public Health
Eastern Ontario Health Unit
Grey Bruce Health Unit
Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit
Hastings Prince Edward Public Health
Huron Perth Public Health
Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox & Addington Public Health
Leeds Grenville & Lanark District Health Unit
Middlesex-London Health Unit
North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit
Northwestern Health Unit
Ottawa Public Health
Peterborough Public Health
Porcupine Health Unit
Public Health Sudbury & Districts
Region of Waterloo Public Health and Emergency Services
Renfrew County and District Health Unit
Simcoe-Muskoka District Health Unit
Southwestern Public Health
Thunder Bay District Health Unit
Timiskaming Health Unit
Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health

Businesses and services permitted to reopen with proper health and safety measures (please click here to view Ontario’s health and safety guidelines) in place in regions entering Stage 2 include:

Outdoor dine-in services at restaurants, bars and other establishments, including patios, curbside, parking lots and adjacent properties;
Select personal and personal care services with the proper health and safety measures in place, including tattoo parlours, barber shops, hair salons and beauty salons;
Shopping malls under existing restrictions, including food services reopening for take-out and outdoor dining only;
Tour and guide services, such as bike and walking, bus and boat tours, as well as tasting and tours for wineries, breweries and distilleries;
Water recreational facilities such as outdoor splash pads and wading pools, and all swimming pools;
Beach access and additional camping at Ontario Parks;
Camping at private campgrounds;
Outdoor-only recreational facilities and training for outdoor team sports, with limits to enable physical distancing;
Drive-in and drive-through venues for theatres, concerts, animal attractions and cultural appreciation, such as art installations;
Film and television production activities, with limits to enable physical distancing; and
Weddings and funerals, with limits on social gatherings to 10 people.

The province will soon release more details on:

Child care;
Summer camps;
Post-secondary education pilots to help people graduate;
Training centres; and
Public transit.

At the beginning of each following week, the government will provide an update on the ongoing assessment of the GTHA and southern border regions that will remain in Stage 1 for the present time, and whether they are ready to move into Stage 2 at the end of that week.

On June 6th, the province announced that emergency orders were extended until June 19^th, which remain into effect despite the fact that Ontario is moving into Stage 2. Please click here to view the orders that have been extended. While Stage 2 of the reopening plan loosens many restrictions, the government has stressed that everyone, regardless of where they live in the province, must continue to follow public health advice, including to practice physical distancing, wear a face covering if physical distancing is a challenge, wash hands frequently and thoroughly, and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Ontario extends the provincial Declaration of Emergency to June 30th, 2020

Jun. 3, 2020

No. 20/031 – June 3, 2020

Issue:

In consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, Ontario is extending the provincial Declaration of Emergency to June 30^th, 2020. The extension, under s.7.0.7 of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, was voted on and approved by the Ontario legislature on June 2^nd, 2020. The vote came after Ontario’s health ministry reported an additional 446 cases of COVID-19, representing a 1.6 percent increases in total cases.

The extension will allow emergency orders that give hospitals and long-term care homes the necessary flexibility to respond to COVID-19 and protect vulnerable populations to continue. Other emergency orders include allowing frontline care providers to redeploy staff, enabling public health units to redeploy or hire staff to support case management and contact tracing, and limiting long-term care and retirement home staff to working at one home.

A full list of emergency orders can be found on the e-Laws website under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act and at Ontario.ca/alert.

Despite the extension, Ontario is currently in stage one of its framework for reopening the economy. This stage allows stores with street entrances to reopen but limits gatherings of groups to five or less unless those people reside in the same household.

In the second stage, which will only begin when public health officials declare that the number of new COVID-19 cases is declining, the government will consider opening more workplaces, including some service industries and more shops; opening more public spaces and allowing slightly larger gatherings of perhaps up to 10 people.

In the third stage, all workplaces would be allowed to reopen, including indoor restaurants and bars, which are currently limited to serving takeout meals and alcohol. Restrictions on public gatherings would be relaxed, but large public gatherings such as concerts and sporting events would continue to be restricted for the foreseeable future.

Please click here to read CEO’s bulletin on the province’s reopening framework.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Infrastructure Ontario and Metrolinx issue Requests for Qualifications for Ontario Line

Jun. 2, 2020

No. 20/030 – June 2, 2020

Issue:

Infrastructure Ontario (IO) and Metrolinx have issued two Requests for Qualifications (RFQs) for the Ontario Line project. Fifteen stations are proposed, with numerous connections to the broader transit network, including GO Transit rail services, the Toronto Transit Commission's (TTC) subway Lines 1 and 2, the future Line 5 (Eglinton Crosstown LRT), as well as bus and streetcar routes.

The Ontario Line is being delivered as three separate public-private partnership (P3) procurement contracts: one rolling stock, systems, operations and maintenance contract for the entire 15.5-kilometre line and two separate civil, stations and tunnel contracts - one for the southern segment and one for the northern segment of the line. The schedules for each contract will be aligned to allow for a single in-service date for the Ontario Line.

In addition to the three main P3 contracts, there will also be a series of early works projects for bridge, track and other preparatory activities. Early works will occur along the joint rail corridor where the Ontario Line will operate next to existing GO Transit rail services. These contracts will begin to be issued to the market later this year.

IO has created these three separate contracts with the intention of encouraging competition and active participation from the market to support innovation and effective service delivery.

The RFQs issued today are for the first two P3 contracts, which include:

Rolling Stock, Systems, Operations and Maintenance (RSSOM)

A design-build-finance-operate-maintain contract for the entire Ontario Line, for a 30-year term
Rolling Stock: design, supply, operate and maintain the vehicles (trains)
Systems: design, build, operate and maintain all track, communications (e.g. network, Wi-Fi, CCTV, passenger information) and train control systems for the Ontario Line
Design, build, operate and maintain the Operations, Maintenance and Storage Facility (where the vehicles are stored); the Operations Control Centre (where staff control train operations and are connected to TTC and GO Transit systems); and the Backup Operations Control Centre
Working collaboratively with the TTC in accordance with future operations and maintenance agreements
Integrating fare equipment with the PRESTO system

Southern Civil, Stations and Tunnel

A design-build-finance contract for the southern portion of the Ontario Line, from Exhibition/Ontario Place to the Don Yard portal (west of the Don River)
Civil: ground works required to build the tunnels and stations; utility and conduit works to prepare for the RSSOM mechanical and electrical systems; guideway structures and facilities to prepare for the track structure to be installed by the RSSOM contractor
Stations:
- one above-ground station to be integrated with the existing GO Transit Exhibition Station
- two underground stations to be integrated with the existing TTC Osgoode and Queen subway stations
- four new underground stations (King/Bathurst, Queen/Spadina, Moss Park, Corktown)
Tunnel: a six-kilometre tunnel and all associated tunnelling works from Exhibition to Don Yard portal (west of Don River)

The RFQ for the northern civil, stations and tunnel contract, the north portion of the Ontario Line from Gerrard Station to the Ontario Science Centre, is expected to be issued in early 2022. The general scope includes seven stations, a three kilometre tunnel, two portals and the associated approach structures, bridges and elevated guideways.

This multi-pronged approach for building transit is expected to attract a more diverse pool of proponents to work on the Ontario Line. Member firms who are interested in bidding on these contracts must register with http://www.merx.com to download the RFQs. IO and Metrolinx will evaluate RFQ submissions and teams will be shortlisted and invited to respond to a Request for Proposals in Fall 2020.

In February, Ontario introduced its Building Transit Faster Act, which if passed would expedite the planning and construction of the Ontario Line, the Scarborough Subway Extension, the Yonge Subway Extension, and the Eglinton Crosstown West Extension. Please click here to read more on the Bill.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Municipalities to Receive Accelerated Gas Tax Funding

Jun. 1, 2020

No. 20/029 – June 1, 2020

Issue:

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau today announced $2.2 billion in financial support for municipalities in the form of accelerated payments from the federal Gas Tax Fund. The assistance represents existing money already earmarked for provinces which in turn funnel it to towns and cities within their jurisdiction. Communities will have the flexibility to use the announced funds for capital projects that meet local needs, such as expansion of high-speed internet networks, improvements to water and road systems and construction of new bike and walking paths. Ontario’s share of today’s announced funding will be more than $800 million.

The Federation of Canadian Municipalities made a public request in April for at least $10 billion in emergency funding from the federal government, $7.6 billion was proposed to cover operating losses with the remaining $2.4 billion to be dedicated to covering losses related to transit operations in major urban centers in particular.

Municipalities, whose revenues have dropped significantly amid COVID-19 lockdowns, in recent weeks have been increasingly calling for financial assistance from the provincial and federal governments. Many are contemplating having to make reductions in essential and other important services in order to maintain operations. Included in these decisions are the deferring or cancelling of approved infrastructure projects so that existing funds can be reallocated to sustain frontline operations.

While grateful for the accelerated funding, mayors across the country are communicating that today’s announced funding does not go far enough. Barred from running deficits to cover operating costs, municipalities are calling for all three levels of government to work together to develop a solution to get through the economic crisis. The hurdle to a way forward appears to be jurisdictional responsibilities. While the federal government controls the purse strings, cities and towns are a provincial jurisdiction, so all parties have to agree the role they will play without encroaching on the other.

The Prime Minister indicated that today’s announcement would only be the first tranche of fiscal support for municipalities. However, he also stated that provinces must do their part as well. What that “part” is remains to be seen as Ottawa and the provinces continue to develop the strategy.

The cost of direct government support to date is now at around $153 billion to help lessen the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy. The fiscal package includes wage subsidies, loan programs for companies, emergency benefits for laid-off workers and commercial rent grants.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Province Introduces New Regulation Exempting COVID-19 Related Work Reduction and Layoff from Notice and Severance Obligations (copy)

Jun. 1, 2020

No. 20/028 – June 1, 2020

Issue:

The Ontario government today announced a new regulatory amendment that will place non-unionized employees on Infectious Disease Emergency Leave during the COVID-19 outbreak any time their hours of work are temporarily reduced by their employer due to the pandemic outbreak. The regulatory amendment applies retroactively to March 1, 2020 and will expire six weeks after the declared emergency ends.

Introduced on Friday, May 29^th the regulation under the Employment Standards Act, 2000 (“ESA”) is meant to provide flexibility to employers that temporarily laid off a non-union employee or reduced non-union employee wages and/or hours due to COVID-19. The regulation largely exempts any such layoff or reduction from being deemed a termination of employment, so that there is no obligation to provide ESA notice and severance.

In taking this step the province is recognizing that the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Ontario’s economy and its workforce is expected to last much longer than the 13-week temporary layoff period provided for under the original conditions of the ESA. Had this regulation not been passed, temporary layoffs and wage and hour reductions introduced by provincial employers in response to the pandemic would have automatically transitioned into terminations of employment through no fault of the employers or employees.

Under the new regulatory change to the Employment Standards Act, non-unionized employees who have had their hours reduced or eliminated because of the pandemic will be deemed to be on Infectious Disease Emergency Leave. Workers will remain employed with legal protections and be eligible for federal emergency income support programs.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Government of Ontario opens up COVID-19 testing across the province (copy)

May. 29, 2020

No. 20/027 – May 29, 2020

Issue:

The Ontario government is implementing the next phase of its COVID-19 testing strategy to detect the spread of the virus. This includes having testing made available to more people in more locations across the province.

This new phase of the province's COVID-19 testing plan entitled Protecting Ontarians Through Enhanced Testing, includes the following three branches:

Assessment Centre Testing: expanding who gets tested to now include asymptomatic individuals concerned about exposure and continued routine symptomatic testing at assessment centres
Targeted Campaigns: detecting and containing cases by expanding asymptomatic surveillance for vulnerable populations, including in long-term care homes and other shared living spaces like shelters and group homes, as well as targeted testing of workplaces in priority sectors which work with priority populations and where it may be difficult to physically distance
Outbreak Management: testing to ensure rapid and agile response capacity for outbreak management, including in specific neighbourhoods and regions or at hospitals, institutions and workplaces.

To help enable increased access to routine symptomatic testing, people will no longer need a referral to go to any of the more than 130 assessment centres across Ontario. Ontario will also expand proactive surveillance testing to detect outbreaks and more actively monitor any spread among most vulnerable populations. This will include testing of symptomatic and asymptomatic residents and frontline staff in long-term care and retirement homes, as well as those working with priority populations, including first responders, essential workers and other workplaces.

The province is also developing agile testing resources, such as mobile testing teams, that can be rapidly deployed into specific communities/regions that are experiencing a high volume of COVID-19 cases. The province intends on releasing an exposure notification app that will alert Ontarians when they may have been exposed to COVID-19 and will recommend corresponding appropriate actions. The province is also developing other strategies to support contact tracing, which is a tactic that can be used to break chains of transmission and prevent future waves or surges of cases.

Now that testing is ramping up, Ontario is considering a regional approach to reopening the province despite resisting it in the past. Currently, Ontario is in Stage 1 of its reopening plan and has not said when it expects to enter into Stage 2.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Government of Ontario extends emergency orders until June 9, 2020

May. 27, 2020

No. 20/026 – May 27, 2020

Issue:

The Ontario government is extending all emergency orders in force under s.7.0.2 (4) of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act until June 9, 2020.

Current emergency orders include the closure of outdoor playgrounds, play structures and equipment, public swimming pools and outdoor water facilities, as well as bars and restaurants with the exception of takeout and delivery. Additionally, there also continues to be restrictions on social gatherings of more than five people and staff redeployment rules for long-term care homes and congregate settings remain in effect.

The following emergency orders also remain active during this time:

Closure of Establishments
Prohibiting Organized Public Events, Certain Gatherings
Work Deployment Measures for Health Care Workers
Drinking Water Systems and Sewage Works
Electronic Service
Work Deployment Measures in Long-Term Care Homes
Closure of Places of Non-Essential Businesses
Traffic Management
Streamlining Requirements for Long-Term Care Homes
Prohibition on Certain Persons Charging Unconscionable Prices for Necessary Goods
Closure of Outdoor Recreational Amenities
Enforcement of Orders
Work Deployment Measures for Boards of Health
Work Deployment Measures in Retirement Homes
Access to COVID-19 Status Information by Specified Persons
Service Agencies Providing Services and Supports to Adults with Developmental Disabilities
Pickup and Delivery of Cannabis
Signatures in Wills and Powers of Attorney
Use of Force and Firearms in Policing Services
Child Care Fees
Agreements Between Health Service Providers and Retirement Homes
Temporary Health or Residential Facilities
Closure of Public Lands for Recreational Camping
Work Deployment Measures for Service Agencies Providing Violence Against Women Residential Services and Crisis Line Services
Limiting Work to a Single Long-Term Care Home
Work Deployment Measures for District Social Services Administration Boards
Deployment of Employees of Service Provider Organizations
Work Deployment Measures for Municipalities
Limiting Work to a Single Retirement Home
Work Deployment Measures for Mental Health and Addictions Agencies
Congregate Care Settings
Access to Personal Health Information by Means of the Electronic Health Record
Certain Persons Enabled to Issue Medical Certificates of Death
Hospital Credentialing Processes
Education Sector
Management of Long-term Care Homes in Outbreak
Electricity Price for RPP Consumers (until May 31, 2020)
Global Adjustment for Market Participants and Consumers (until June 1, 2020)

The arrival of pleasant seasonal weather is going to see many people take advantage of the conditions to get outside and enjoy the outdoors. While the warmer weather has already had many Ontarians break social distancing measures, it is important for everyone to remain mindful of physical distancing and other public health guidelines as we manage through this pandemic. The province has also changed its testing protocols to include anyone who is concerned that they’ve been exposed to COVID-19, even if they are not displaying and symptoms. Testing rates in the last week have been between 7,000 to 11,000 a day, however, province has not been able to meet its present testing capacity of 25,000 per day.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Ontario announces details of the province’s first stage of the reopening framework starting on May 19, 2020

May. 14, 2020

No. 20/024 – May 14, 2020

Issue:

Today the government announced that Stage One of its reopening framework for the Ontario economy will occur Tuesday May 19^th. As part of the reopening, certain retailers, seasonal businesses and health and community service providers will be permitted to open or expand their services provided that the general public health trends continue to improve.

The Stage One reopening will include:

Lifting essential workplace limits on construction and resuming all construction
Retail services that are not in shopping malls and have separate street-front entrances with measures in place that can enable physical distancing
Seasonal businesses and recreational activities for individual or single competitors
Animal services, specifically pet care services, such as grooming and training, and regular veterinary appointments
Indoor and outdoor household services that can follow public health guidelines;
Allowing certain health and medical services to resume, such as in-person counselling and scheduled surgeries based on the ability to meet pre-specified conditions as outlined in A Measured Approach to Planning for Surgeries and Procedures During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The government also announced the additional seasonal services and activities that will be permitted to open as early as Saturday May 16, 2020 at 12:01 a.m.

Please click here for a detailed list of the Stage One openings.

While today’s announcement is good news for people seeking a measured return to normal, the government has been clear that Ontario’s reopening will occur under strict health and safety concerns. Businesses permitted to reopen are being encouraged to do so only when they are ready. To facilitate this, the government and health and safety associations have also released more than 90 safety guidance documents, including those related to construction. As more sectors of the economy begin to reopen, additional resources will be made available. Premier Ford has emphasized that the province will be relying on inspectors to ensure that health and safety measures and guidelines are being followed across all sectors.

Member firms should also be aware that the government has launched a website to provide businesses with information to connect then with personal protective equipment (PPE) suppliers. The Workplace PPE Supplier Directory has an up-to-date list of Ontario companies and business associations that are readily able to supply personal protective equipment.

It is essential to remember that while the government is taking its first steps to reopen the provincial economy, individuals must continue to adhere to public health measures including practicing physical distancing, wearing face coverings when necessary, as well as regular handwashing and staying home when ill. While Ontario is entering Stage One of its reopening framework, the government is taking an incremental approach and there are no fixed dates for the duration of each stage. The Premier has been clear that the Chief Medical Officer of Health will continue to evaluate whether public health restrictions should be loosened or tightened.

If Stage 1 is successful, the province will move to Stage 2, which means the possibility of the opening of more workplaces, community and outdoor spaces, allowing for larger group gatherings and continuing to restore services while maintaining health and safety restrictions.

If Stage 2 is successful, Ontario will then move to the final stage — Stage 3. This stage could include the opening of all workplaces and relaxing restrictions on recreational spaces, public gatherings and allowing public spaces to fully open.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Ontario extends Declaration of Emergency until June 2, 2020

May. 12, 2020

No. 20/023 – May 12, 2020

Issue:

During a special sitting of the Ontario Legislature, the government extended the Declaration of Emergency until June 2, 2020. Under the extension the government will be able to continue to enforce current emergency orders to address COVID-19, while gradually reopening businesses, services, and amenities. Premier Doug Ford also announced that Ontario will enter “Stage 1” of a three-step plan to gradually reopen the province on Thursday, May 14, 2020. Please click here to read CEO’s bulletin on the framework for re-opening the Ontario economy.

The House also passed the COVID-19 Response and Reforms to Modernize Ontario Act, 2020, which will help people conduct business while practicing physical distancing by:

Providing authority to address in-person attendance rules for school board trustees' meetings in regulation;
Enabling corporations to call and hold meetings virtually, as applicable, and extending the time period in which annual meetings must be held in specific circumstances;
Allowing designations of a beneficiary to be provided electronically for Retirement Savings Plans, Retirement Income Funds, Locked-in Retirement Accounts, Life Income Funds and Tax-Free Savings Accounts;
Allowing electronic filing of business registration documents, and the Ministry of Government and Consumer Services to accept copies of business registration documents and e-signatures;
Allowing for regulations to set out the parameters for remotely commissioning or notarizing a document;
Extending, on a one-time basis for 2020, the legislated four-year period during which a Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) election is mandated to be held to give more time to support remote voting.

The Expenditure Estimates for the 2020-21 fiscal year were also tabled in the Legislature. This includes program spending to support the $17 billion announced as part of Ontario's Action Plan 2020: Responding to COVID-19 so the province's health care system, communities, and economy are better positioned to address challenges caused by the pandemic.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Provincial government to allow certain businesses to reopen under strict safety guidelines

May. 1, 2020

No. 20/022 – May 1, 2020

Issue:

The provincial government announced today that it will be allowing certain seasonal businesses and some essential construction projects to reopen as long as they comply with strict public health measures and operate safely during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health has provided general recommendations on how the openings of businesses and workplaces could be implemented to support safe operations, including strict adherence to health and safety requirements.

To that end, the government has developed more than 60 guidelines in response to COVID-19. These sector-specific measures are aimed at helping employers to prepare their workplaces so they can be reopened safely and ensure workers, customers and the general public are protected. The provincial government has made health and safety a focal point of their COVID-19 policies.

The following will be permitted to begin operations on Monday, May 4^th at 12:01 a.m.:

Additional essential construction projects that include:
- shipping and logistics
- broadband, telecommunications, and digital infrastructure
- projects that support the improved delivery of goods and services
- municipal projects
- colleges and universities
- child care centres
- schools
- site preparation, excavation, and servicing for institutional, commercial, industrial and residential development
Garden centres and nurseries (curbside pick-up and delivery only)
Lawn care and landscaping
Automatic and self-serve car washes
Auto dealerships, open by appointment only
Golf courses may prepare their courses for the upcoming season, but not open to the public
Marinas may also begin preparations for the recreational boating season by servicing boats and other watercraft and placing boats in the water, but not open to the public. Boats and watercraft must be secured to a dock in the marina until public access is allowed.

Situational Analysis:

Today’s announcement is important for CEO member firms as it provides notice for some practice areas that they will be able reopen for business and clarifies the conditions under which they return to work. It is imperative for member firms to be familiar with, understand and comply with established occupational health and safety guidelines defining the acceptable code of practice required in order to reopen as of Monday May 4^th.

The Construction and Design Alliance of Ontario (CDAO), of which CEO is an active member, worked closely with other broader construction sector stakeholders and the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development, to very early on in this crisis establish construction and construction-related industry guidelines for safe work practices. These practice guidelines remain in effect and are the standard to which all businesses must adhere in order to be permitted to operate. Information detailing these guidelines and other COVID-19 links and resources for employers and workers are available from the Infrastructure Health and Safety Association (IHSA).

Background:

On April 27, the government released A Framework for Reopening our Province, which outlines the criteria Ontario's Chief Medical Officer of Health and health experts are using to advise the government on the loosening of emergency measures, as well as guiding principles for the safe, gradual reopening of businesses, services and public spaces. Please click here to view CEO’s bulletin on this subject.

Conclusion:

While today’s announcement is encouraging news for the Ontario economy, the Premier stressed that the reopening of the provincial economy is going to be very gradual and that this is only a very small first step. All future decisions will continue to be evidence-based and informed by the advice of the Chief Provincial Medical Officer of Health. As such, there is no calendar of fixed dates for further action. In the interim, if you have any questions about this bulletin do not hesitate to contact David Zurawel at [email protected] or Catherine Morrison, [email protected]. Please note that CEO has closed its office but employees remain active at this time. CEO will be providing an update on our activities in the near future.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Framework for re-opening the Ontario economy speaks to “how” not “when”

Apr. 27, 2020

No. 20/021 – April 27, 2020

Issue:

This afternoon Premier Doug Ford along with Deputy Premier and Health Minister Christine Elliott, Finance Minister Rod Phillips and Economic Development, Job creation and Trade Minister Vic Fedeli presented A Framework for Reopening our Province, the Ontario Government’s plan for the gradual reopening of the provincial economy.

Billed as a roadmap for Ontario’s economic recovery efforts, the plan implements a staged approach to reviving the provincial economy informed by all necessary and appropriate measures to maintain public health and safety and to preserve the virus containment successes achieved to date.

It is important to note that today’s announcement and framework speaks to how Ontario’s economy will be reengaged and not when. There is no calendar of dates for the implementation of the plan or how long the remobilization of the economy will take. Rather, the government will be relying on the ongoing evidence-based advice of the Chief Medical Officer of Health and other public health experts about how and when it can loosen current emergency measures, which will in turn provide criteria to guide the public through the gradual reopening of business, services and public spaces.

Implemented through a three stage process, with each stage lasting from two to four weeks, the provincial economic recovery plan will be implemented as follows:

Stage 1: For businesses that were ordered to close or restrict operations, opening select workplaces that can immediately modify operations to meet public health guidance. Opening some outdoor spaces like parks and allowing for a greater number of individuals to attend some events. Hospitals would also begin to offer some non-urgent and scheduled surgeries, and other health care services.

Stage 2: Opening more workplaces, based on risk assessments, which may include some service industries and additional office and retail workplaces. Some larger public gatherings would be allowed, and more outdoor spaces would open.

Stage 3: Opening of all workplaces responsibly and further relaxing of restrictions on public gatherings.

During these stages continued protections for vulnerable populations will remain in effect, along with continued physical distancing, hand washing and respiratory hygiene, and significant mitigation plans to limit health risks.

Once initiated, advancement of the economic recovery plan will be determined by the government as it considers advice received from the Chief Medical Officer of Health based on a specific set criteria influencing the risk of the spread of the COVID-19 virus and its ability to implement protective measures to maintain public health and safety. These criteria are:

A consistent two-to-four week decrease in the number of new daily COVID-19 cases;
Sufficient acute and critical care capacity, including access to ventilators and ongoing availability of personal protective equipment;
Approximately 90 per cent of new COVID-19 contacts are being reached by local public health officials within one day, with guidance and direction to contain community spread; and
Ongoing testing of suspected COVID-19 cases, especially of vulnerable populations, to detect new outbreaks quickly.

As the government prepares to implement its plan the Ontario Jobs and Recovery Committee (OJRC) will continue to consult with key sectors of the Ontario economy. Since the beginning of the pandemic outbreak CEO has been communicating directly with key government minister’s offices, ministries and agencies on issues identified as important by member firms. CEO is also an active member of the Construction and Design Alliance of Ontario (CDAO) and was a principal author of its recent submission to the OJRC, a copy of that submission can be found here. CEO will continue to develop recommendations and provide advice to government on issues important to the health of our industry as the situation evolves.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Legal Interpretation of Essential Business: “Consulting engineers will likely find that a significant portion of their site-specific services can continue without interruption”

Apr. 23, 2020

No. 20/016 – April 9, 2020

Issue:

Following the Government of Ontario’s April 3^rd issuing of a much narrower List of Essential Workplaces under the authority of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, Consulting Engineers of Ontario sought a legal interpretation to determine with some certainty which businesses are defined “essential” and can remain open during the Covid-19 pandemic. Please reach out via email to request a copy of the interpretation.

Key Finding:

While engineering is not specifically listed as an essential service, it is effectively incorporated within paragraph 1 of the List, entitled “Supply chains”:

“Businesses that supply other essential businesses or essential services within Ontario, or that that supply businesses or services that have been declared essential in a jurisdiction outside of Ontario, with the support, products, supplies, systems or services, including processing, packaging, warehousing, distribution, delivery, and maintenance necessary to operate.” [emphasis added]

Therefore the provision of consulting engineering services at the workplaces of any other businesses on the List, such as contract administration and site inspection, is deemed essential and permissible, provided that such services are necessary to support the operation of such businesses.

Conclusion:

Consulting engineers will need to assess, on a project-by-project basis, whether or not their site specific services such as contract administration, inspection and review, payment certification, etc. are deemed essential in that context and on the List.

Should you have any questions about this legal interpretation or have any other questions about the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on our industry, do not hesitate to contact David Zurawel at 416.970.6833 or [email protected] or Catherine Morrison at [email protected].

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Province extends emergency orders until May 6, 2020

Apr. 23, 2020

No. 20/020 – April 23, 2020

Issue:

Advised by Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, the provincial government is extending all emergency orders that have been put in place to-date under s.7.0.2 (4) of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act.

While Government of Ontario extended the provincial declaration of emergency until May 12, 2020, it is important to note that all the emergency orders issued under that declaration such as the closure of non-essential workplaces, the ban on public gatherings and the like are being extended until May 6, 2020.

Included here is a list of the links for the orders that have been extended until May 6, 2020:

CEO member firms should proceed as instructed under the emergency orders until otherwise notified. Please click here to access CEO’s previous bulletin to learn more on how engineering has been interpreted as an “essential” business during this time. Please reach out via email for a copy of the associated legal opinion.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Updated Legal Interpretation of Essential Business – Construction of agriculture projects:

Apr. 15, 2020

No. 20/019 – April 15, 2020

Issue:

On Saturday April 10^th, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Ernie Hardeman issued a letter informing the public of a change to the list of essential businesses. Effective immediately,

Ontario has amended the emergency order to include:

29.1 Construction projects that are due to be completed before October 4, 2020 and that would provide additional capacity in the production, processing, manufacturing or distribution of food, beverages or agricultural products.

The updated order is available at the following link: https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/r20136

Those seeking further information can contact the Agricultural Information Contact Centre at [email protected] or 1-877-424-1300.

Key Finding:

This new paragraph 29.1 seems to limit “construction projects” involving the production, processing, manufacturing or distribution of food, beverages or agricultural products to only those providing additional capacity and only those due to be completed before October 4, 2020.

The question becomes, however: what about other construction projects for businesses that produce food, beverages and agricultural products? Are such projects not covered under paragraphs 1 and 24, irrespective of the date when they are due to be completed – thereby being “essential”, and the provision of engineering site services thereon being permissible? An example of such a project would be the construction of a plant for an owner in the food business which does not add additional capacity but is simply to replace or upgrade existing capacity.

Unfortunately, there is no answer. This is yet another example of a situation in which an attempt by government to provide clarity instead causes further confusion.

CEO’s legal counsel advises any member firms providing professional site services in connection with any such projects remains: assess the project. If it is due to be completed after October 2, 2020, call the Ontario Government hotline, 1-888-444-3659, for confirmation as to whether or not government considers that specific project on the essential list, and record the advice given.

Conclusion:

CEO is encouraging member firms to continue to assess, on a project-by-project basis, whether or not their site specific services such as contract administration, inspection and review, payment certification, etc. are deemed essential in that context and on the List.

Should you have any questions about this updated legal interpretation or have any other questions about the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on our industry, do not hesitate to contact David Zurawel at 416.970.6833 or [email protected] or Catherine Morrison at [email protected]

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Province of Ontario extends Declaration of Emergency until May 12, 2020

Apr. 15, 2020

No. 20/018 – April 15, 2020

Issue:

On the advice of the Chief Medical Officer of Health and with the unanimous approval of the Ontario legislature during a special sitting, the Ontario government is extending the Declaration of Emergency under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act until May 12, 2020.

The 28-day extension of the provincial declaration of emergency will continue to enforce the same emergency measures that the province has enacted since March 17, 2020. Non-essential workplaces, recreational areas and public places all remain closed. Please click here to view the legal interpretation on the essential businesses list and how it impacts the industry. Please click here for the full list of emergency orders.

The legislature also passed the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Support and Protection Act to amend the following acts:

Development Charges Act
Planning Act
Police Services Act
Education Act
Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities Act

Changes to the Development Charges Act will help municipalities to continue to receive a stream of revenue that will help to pay for local growth-related infrastructure, such as roads, water and sewers as well as fire and police service. The government will also make it possible to suspend certain municipal planning decision timelines during the state of emergency.

The amendments to the Police Services Act will allow the Solicitor General to give municipalities an extension beyond January 1, 2021 to prepare and adopt a community safety and well-being plan.

The amendments to the Education Act will allow school boards to continue charging fees on new construction in order to retain a vital source of revenue for new school projects. The bill also includes an amendment to provide a consistent provincewide approach to addressing school suspensions and expulsions.

The changes to the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities Act will temporarily suspend student loan payments for OSAP borrowers and initiate a six-month interest-free moratorium on OSAP loans.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Province restores holdbacks: Emergency order amended to restore limitation periods and procedural time periods under the Construction Act

Apr. 13, 2020

No. 20/017 – April 13, 2020

Issue:

The Ontario government is revising one element of its previous emergency order, O. Reg. 73/20 made under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act. This order suspended limitation periods and procedural time periods retroactive to March 16, 2020. This resulted in a negative impact on the province’s engineering, professional services and construction industry by suspending the ability for project owners to release essential project holdback monies.

The emergency order has been amended to lift the suspension of limitation periods and procedural time periods under the Construction Act. This will allow for the release of holdback payments to contractors and subcontractors in the normal course, helping to resolve the significant cash flow problem that is impacting our industry.

The suspension will be lifted on April 16, 2020, to give the industry time to prepare for these changes. Once lifted, parties will have the same amount of time to meet a deadline that had been remaining before the suspension began on March 16, 2020.

The amendments to the order also address the Niagara Escarpment Planning and Development Act. The amendments to O. Reg. 73/20 will be posted on e-Laws at: https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/200073.

Conclusion:

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Template letter now available for member firms to address COVID-19 related project delays with clients

Apr. 9, 2020

No. 20/015 – April 9, 2020

Issue:

Consulting Engineers of Ontario (CEO) has developed a template letter for member firms to send to their clients. This letter is intended to advocate for flexibility on unforeseeable, unavoidable and inevitable project delays and associated risks whether directly or indirectly caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

This letter will be a useful tool when working with public clients during these challenging times. The expectation is to have member firms use this letter as a first step in initiating discussions with municipalities on the flexibility of current modified business practices during the current crisis. CEO is also developing communications that will be distributed to municipalities to compliment this letter.

CEO asks that members not substantially modify the content of the letter. We recommend that any modifications be only to tailor the piece to your firm’s specific details (i.e.: contact information, client information, contract reference numbers, etc.). Any other modifications should be limited to any project specifications that may need to be included in the letter related to current or future assignments.

Please use your firm’s letterhead when distributing this letter to your clients.

For a copy of the letter template please contact David Zurawel at [email protected] or Catherine Morrison, [email protected]. Please note that CEO has closed its office but staff remain active at this time. We will continue to closely monitor government activity and provide update to members on important developments as information becomes available.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Province accelerates work on essential construction projects

Apr. 8, 2020

No. 20/014 – April 8, 2020

Issue:

During this afternoon’s briefing, Premier Doug Ford, Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development, and Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, announced that construction hours for essential construction projects will be permitted 24 hours/day.

Ontario will temporarily limit local noise bylaws from applying to these types of essential construction activities beginning April 7, 2020. This will allow for expedited construction on new hospital builds, expansions, temporary COVID-19 response units or structures, and COVID-19 assessment centres. The extension of hours for construction projects will also follow health and safety protocols by staggering shifts, limiting the number of workers in one place, and taking precautions outlined in the guidelines issued by Ontario's Chief Prevention Officer for construction sites.

The Province is also taking the following health and safety measures to address the COVID-19 pandemic:

Redeploying 30+ employment standards officers to help businesses understand and comply with health and safety requirements;
Working with health and safety associations to deploy up to 30 specialists to support employers and workers in the field;
Issuing health and safety guidance notes to support specific sectors;
Doubling the capacity of Ontario's Health and Safety Call Centre from 25 to 50 phonelines;
Providing job-protected leave under the Employment Standards Act for workers who need to self-isolate or care for a loved one because of COVID-19;
Issuing a call to recently-retired inspectors who may be able and willing to return to their positions;
Providing compliance assistance and enforcing the emergency orders issued under the Emergency Measures and Civil Protection Act.

In the briefing, Minister McNaughton noted that more health and safety inspections will be performed on construction worksites across the province.

If you have any questions about this bulletin do not hesitate to contact David Zurawel at [email protected] or Catherine Morrison, [email protected]. Please note that CEO has closed its office but employees remain active at this time. We will continue to closely monitor government activity and provide update to members on important developments as information becomes available.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Update re: Ontario’s non-essential business list

Apr. 7, 2020

No. 20/013 – April 7, 2020

Issue:

The Government of Ontario’s update to its essential business list has raised a number of issues and questions over the course of the weekend. This note is an update to provide some clarity on some of those issues.

Situational Analysis:

The government’s new list of essential businesses has left many businesses across Ontario’s broader construction sector with questions about what specifically constitutes critical provincial infrastructure.

Ministries and provincial agencies are determining for themselves which of their projects will be deemed essential. CEO’s discussions with government and industry contacts have revealed that the interpretations of critical infrastructure and essential businesses remain fluid. Political staff have indicated that they are not able to provide more specific direction to stakeholders on these classifications and have recommended stakeholders obtain legal advice for any questions they may have. CEO is in the process of obtaining a legal interpretation of the revised essential businesses list to provide some clarity for our industry.

A general read and interpretation of the revised government list seems to indicate that the construction, operation, repair and maintenance of government assets will continue. The primary impact of the new list is in the private Institutional, Commercial and Industrial (ICI) and residential markets where, save for a few exceptions, they are no longer deemed essential and work on those sites is to cease.

Recommendations to Consider:

CEO is reminding member firms that the continuation of projects is ultimately up to the owner. It is advisable to contact your project owners to confirm their intentions about their projects and sites.

Some municipalities have communicated that it is their intention to carry on, business as usual. Where member firms are continuing project work CEO reminds everyone to be mindful of required public health and occupational health and safety protocols and practices. With health and safety top-of-mind, the government is aggressively deploying inspectors to project sites to ensure that all precautions are being observed. Project sites found to be non-compliant will be shutdown.

CEO is also recommending member firms contact their project owners to ask for written confirmation of their intention to have work continue on their sites. It is advisable for member firm representatives who will be attending project sites to keep a copy of this letter in their possession while on-site, should an inspector question their need to be there.

For those that are presently in the procurement stage of the projects, CEO is also reminding member firms to be mindful of agreement terms and conditions detailing schedules and other processes and timelines. Other industry organizations are reporting that project owners are continuing to issue and operate projects on a “business as usual” footing. Be aware of and communicate clearly what sort of accommodation your firm requires to complete your assignment while remaining required health and safety protocols.

Conclusion:

The current project environment is continuing to evolve on a daily basis and is presenting some difficult challenges for our industry. CEO does however, want to remind member firms that while the revised essential business list does define the requirements by which physical office spaces must be closed, it does not require the stoppage of member firm’s business operations. The government is maintaining that teleworking, online commerce and other innovative ways of working remotely are permitted at all times and are strongly encouraged for all businesses.

Business-owners with questions concerning their essential business status are encouraged to call the Stop the Spread hotline at 1-888-444-3659. The hotline is available from 8:30 a.m.― 9:00 p.m. Monday to Friday and 8:30 a.m.— 5:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Should you have any questions about this update and how the revised essential business list applies to your business, or have any other questions about this bulletin do not hesitate to contact David Zurawel at 416.970.6833 or [email protected].

Please note that CEO has closed its office but staff remain active at this time. We will continue to closely monitor government activity and provide update to members on important developments as information becomes available.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: CEO and construction industry working to change Government of Ontario’s Suspension of Limitation Periods impacting Release of Holdback Funds and Liens under the Construction Act

Apr. 6, 2020

No. 20/010 – April 6, 2020

Issue:

Ontario’s consulting and construction industry is facing a liquidity crisis and project owners have stopped releasing holdback funds. Companies not having access to these funds will quickly lead to a lack of access to readily available cash to maintain regular business operations.

Background:

On Tuesday March 17, 2020, Premier Doug Ford declared a state of emergency for the Province of Ontario under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act. The purpose of the declaration was to enable certain powers for the government so that it could take steps to contain the spreading COVID-19 pandemic. On Friday March 20, 2020, the province suspended limitation periods and procedural deadlines in Ontario proceedings, retroactive to March 16, 2020, under subsection 7.1(2) of the Act for at least the next 90 days. This action has had the unintended consequence of capturing the treatment of holdback funds as Section 19 of the Limitations Act and Schedule B of the Act specifically make note of Sections 31 and 36 of the Construction Act. The result has been the creating a liquidity crisis for Ontario’s professional and construction services industry.

Market Impact:

The suspension of limitations effectively “deactivate” lien “clocks” under Sections 31 and 36 of the Construction Act, enabling any party to a project to file a lien against a project at any time. In addition, the suspension means existing liens cannot expire. This puts project owners at risk should they release holdback funds. Therefore, many (including municipalities) are receiving legal advice to not release these monies for the duration of the provincial order. Retention of these monies is already starting to have a profound negative impact on the professional services and construction sector.

Advocating a Solution:

To address this situation Consulting Engineers of Ontario has been working with its industry partners through the Construction and Design Alliance of Ontario (CDAO). The CDAO has developed and presented to government a briefing note explaining the industry’s issue with recommendations to resolve this problem. Please click here to view the briefing note. Supporting this submission, CEO staff have been having substantive conversations with senior staff in the Offices of the Premier, Attorney General, Minister of Infrastructure, Minister of Labour and Infrastructure Ontario. We are pleased to report that the tabled recommended solutions have been well-received by these offices and that a decision is expected soon.

Conclusion:

If you have any questions about this bulletin do not hesitate to contact David Zurawel at 416.970.6833 or [email protected].

Please note that CEO has closed its office but employees remain active at this time. We will continue to closely monitor government activity and provide update to members on important developments as information becomes available.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: ONTARIO REVISES "ESSENTIAL BUSINESS" CATEGORIES TO 44 FROM 74 - ENGINEERING AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CONTINUE, BUT ONLY FOR "CRITICAL CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS" AS PROVINCE EXTENDS SHUT DOWN IN ATTEMPT TO BETTER CONTAIN COVID-19

Apr. 3, 2020

No. 20/012 – April 3, 2020

Issue:

This afternoon, on the advice of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, the Government of Ontario is reducing to 44 from 74 the list of businesses defined as essential to the Ontario economy. This decision was informed by today’s earlier release of provincial pandemic modelling information indicating that without further action Ontario would experience a projected 1,600 deaths and 80,000 additional infections by the end of April.

Ontario’s engineering and related consulting services remain on the list of those businesses defined as “essential”, but only in the context of continuing critical projects.

The government is ordering all businesses not covered by the updated Emergency Order to close effective as of Saturday, April 4, 2020 at 11:59 p.m. This closure will be in effect for 14 days, with the possibility of an extension as the situation evolves. Teleworking, online commerce and other innovative ways of working remotely are permitted at all times and are strongly encouraged for all businesses. All supply chains necessary for the production of vital food and healthcare supplies are being protected and remain intact.

Only critical construction projects will continue, including industrial projects such as refineries and petrochemical plants and infrastructure projects such as new hospitals, roads and bridges. New starts in residential projects will stop, while residential construction that is near completion will continue. Business-owners with questions concerning their essential business status are encouraged to call the Stop the Spread hotline at 1-888-444-3659. The hotline is available from 8:30 a.m.― 9:00 p.m. Monday to Friday and 8:30 a.m.— 5:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Sectors of interest from the list of those businesses defined as essential include:

Transportation services

Businesses and facilities that provide transportation services, including,

transportation services provided by air, water, road, and rail, including taxis and other private transportation providers, and
support services for transportation services, including,

logistical support, distribution services, warehousing and storage, truck stops and tow operators,
services that support the operations and safety of transportation systems including maintenance and repairs, and
marinas, but only to the extent that the marina is necessary to enable individuals to access their primary place of residence.

Construction

Construction projects and services associated with the healthcare sector, including new facilities, expansions, renovations and conversion of spaces that could be repurposed for health care space.
Construction projects and services required to ensure safe and reliable operations of, or to provide new capacity in, critical provincial infrastructure, including transit, transportation, energy and justice sectors beyond the day-to-day maintenance.
Critical industrial construction activities required for,

the maintenance and operations of petrochemical plants and refineries,
significant industrial petrochemical projects where preliminary work has already commenced,
industrial construction and modifications to existing industrial structures limited solely to work necessary for the production, maintenance, and/or enhancement of Personal Protective Equipment, medical devices (such as ventilators), and other identified products directly related to combatting the COVID-19 pandemic.

Residential construction projects where,

a footing permit has been granted for single family, semi-detached and townhomes
an above grade structural permit has been granted for condominiums, mixed use and other buildings, or
the project involves renovations to residential properties and construction work was started before April 4, 2020.

Construction and maintenance activities necessary to temporarily close construction sites that have paused or are not active and to ensure ongoing public safety.

Resources and energy

Businesses that provide and ensure the domestic and global continuity of supply of resources, including mining, forestry, aggregates, petroleum, petroleum by-products and chemicals.
Electricity generation, transmission, distribution and storage and natural gas distribution, transmission and storage.

Community services

Businesses that deliver or support the delivery of services including:

Sewage treatment and disposal.
Collecting, transporting, storing, processing, disposing or recycling of any type of waste.
Potable drinking water.
Critical infrastructure repair and maintenance including roads, dams, bridges etc.
Environmental rehabilitation, management and monitoring, and spill clean-up and response.
Administrative authorities that regulate and inspect businesses.
Professional and social services that support the legal and justice system.
Government services including but not limited to policing and law enforcement, fire and emergency services, paramedics, coroner and pathology services, corrections and court services, licences and permits.

The full updated essential businesses list can be found here.

The government is implementing additional measures to protect frontline workers in essential businesses by adding more than 60 special consultants and officers and doubling the number of phone agents at its Health and Safety Call Centre to 50 to make it easier for workers to report safety concerns. Workers worried their workplaces are unsafe can phone 1-877-202-0008 to speak with an agent.

CEO is strongly encouraging member firms to closely review and consider this bulletin and the link to the government’s full list of essential businesses. Should you have any question about how today’s revised emergency order applies to your business, please contact the government hotline provided above. If you have any other questions about this bulletin do not hesitate to contact David Zurawel at 416.970.6833 or [email protected].

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development issues health and safety practices guideline for construction sites

Mar. 30, 2020

No. 20/011 – March 30, 2020

Issue:

On March 29^th, Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development issued a set of guidelines developed by Chief Prevention Officer Ron Kelusky for best health and safety practices for construction sites and legal responsibilities for employers during the COVID-19 crisis. Please click here to view the guide.

The update follows an initial guidance document circulated on March 20, 2020 that was developed through the Labour Management Committee of the Infrastructure Health and Safety Association with the participation of the Ontario General Contractors Association (OGCA).

The guide addresses sector topics including:

Providing better on-site sanitation, including a focus on high-touch areas like site trailers, door handles and hoists
Communicating roles, responsibilities, and health & safety policies, by, for example, posting site sanitization schedules and work schedules
Enabling greater distances between workers by staggering shifts, restricting site numbers and limiting elevator usage
Protecting public health by tracking and monitoring workers

In addition to measures being taken by the Province, the Canadian Construction Association has also released a COVID-19 Standardized Protocols for All Canadian Construction Sites. Please click here to view the document. The document provides best practices and a national approach for employers and employees to follow in order to protect themselves and the public at large and help minimize the spread of COVID-19.

CEO is advising member firms that Ministry of Labour inspectors are actively inspecting job sites. The Ministry has stated that employers and constructors should be aware that failure to comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and its regulations could result in a stop work order.

CEO is recommending member firms to be aware of these updated protocols at both the provincial and national level. The standards represented in both the Province’s Chief Prevention Officer’s Guide and the CCA’s Standardized Protocols for All Canadian Construction Sites document may be factors that could be considered to be within a Consultant’s Standard of Care.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: March 2020 Economic and Fiscal Update- Ontario's Action Plan: Responding to COVID-19

Mar. 30, 2020

No. 20/009 – March 30, 2020

Issue:

On March 25^th, Finance Minister Rod Phillips released an economic and fiscal update and pandemic response entitled Ontario's Action Plan: Responding to COVID-19. The update provides a one year economic and fiscal forecast that the government will update regularly throughout the year. Having two primary objectives of increasing the capacity of the province’s health care system and providing immediate supports that will protect the health of people, businesses, and the Ontario economy, the response plan is a $17 billion package with measures intended to complement the federal government’s response the pandemic. This relief includes $7 billion in new investments and $10 billion in deferred tax obligations. Please note that the Province has delayed its release of the annual budget to the fall.

Economic and Fiscal Update:

The Province is projecting a deficit of $9.2 billion in 2019–20, an improvement of $1.1 billion relative to the 2019 Budget. As a result of the response to the COVID-19 outbreak, the government is planning for a deficit of $20.5 billion in 2020–21. The government will release a multi-year provincial Budget by November 15, 2020. This approach will allow the government to continue assessing the economic climate and put forward a long-term outlook based on the most recent and reliable data.

Ontario's Action Plan: Responding to COVID-19:

Through the published action plan, the Government of Ontario is dedicating $1 billion to a COVID-19 contingency fund, $2.5 billion in reserve, and an increased contingency fund of $1.3 billion to provide flexibility to respond to the evolving state of the pandemic. The plan also includes $3.3 billion in additional health care resources.

Below is a condensed breakdown of the finical resources and measures being committed by the Province to address COVID-19:

Defer $6 billion of provincially administered taxes (April 1 to August 31)
Defer $1.9 billion of Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) premiums and expenses for employers for 6 months
Retroactively reduce the Employer Health Tax (EHT) and temporarily increase the exemption from $490,000 to $1 million
Help support regions lagging in employment growth with the proposed new Regional Opportunities Investment Tax Credit
Provide $935 million for the hospital sector, including $594 million to address capacity issues, as well as $341 million for an additional 1,000 acute care and 500 critical care beds and additional assessment centres
Increase public health funding by $160 million to support COVID-19 monitoring, surveillance, and laboratory and home testing, while also investing in virtual care and Telehealth Ontario
Provide $243 million for surge capacity in the long-term care sector, as well as funding for 24/7 screening, more staffing to support infection control, and supplies and equipment to help tackle the COVID-19 outbreak
Provide additional supports of $26 million to Indigenous peoples and communities, including emergency assistance for urban Indigenous people in financial need, and costs for health care professionals and critical supplies to reach remote First Nations

To read the economic and fiscal update please click here. To view the full list of measures detailed in Ontario’s Action Plan: Responding to Covid-19 please click here.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Federal Government’s Emergency Bill C-13 passes through Parliament and receives Royal Assent

Mar. 27, 2020

No. 20/008 – March 27, 2020

Issue:

On March 25^th, Bill C-13, the COVID-19 Emergency Response Act, passed through Parliament and received Royal Assent, guaranteeing the implementation of measures needed to uphold public health and safety directives and stabilize the economy as the pandemic evolves.

The final legislation includes a notable change to Prime Minister Trudeau’s $82 billion economic stimulus package announced last week. The package, which included the Emergency Care Benefit and Emergency Support Benefit is now being merged to create one package called the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB). The CERB is available to Canadian workers affected by the current situation whether or not they are eligible for Employment Insurance (EI).

The CERB will provide workers who have lost their income due to COVID-19 a taxable benefit of $2,000 a month for up to 4 months.

The benefit will provide aid to the following:

Individuals who have lost their jobs
Individuals who are sick, quarantined, or taking care of someone who is sick with COVID-19,
Working parents who must stay home without pay to care for children who are sick or at home because of school and daycare closures
Workers who are still employed, but are not receiving income because of disruptions to their work situation related to COVID-19
Contract workers & self-employed Canadians who not eligible for EI

Canadians receiving EI regular and sickness benefits as of today would continue to receive their benefits and do not need to reapply for the CERB. Furloughed workers and those who are still technically employed but not receiving income would also qualify for the benefit. An online portal will be launching and benefits should be available within 10 days of applying. The Prime Minister stated 1,300 civil servants have been deployed to process applications submitted to date.

In addition to the CERB, please see below for other measures outlined in the legislation:

Support for Canadian businesses through the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) by temporarily providing the Minister of Finance with more flexibility to determine BDC’s capital limit
Help for businesses to keep their workers by providing eligible small employers a temporary wage subsidy for a period of three months
Support for Canadian businesses through Export Development Canada (EDC) by temporarily providing the Minister of Finance with more flexibility in setting EDC’s capital and liability limits – as well as the Canada Account limit – and expanding EDC’s ability to engage in domestic financial transactions
Support for provinces and territories with a COVID-19 Response Fund that would provide one-time funding of $500 million
Support for the availability of drugs and medical devices by providing the Government with the authority to make regulations to address any future shortages of therapeutic products
Provide the authority to a federal minister to requisition funds from the Consolidated Revenue Fund with the concurrence of the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Health to support federal efforts to prevent or control the spread of COVID-19
Provide the Minister of Finance with flexibility to respond expeditiously to COVID-19 developments, by amending the Financial Administration Act (FAA) to temporarily remove the requirement for the Minister of Finance to receive Governor in Council’s authorization in order to use emergency powers
Support for the protection of Canadians’ savings by providing the Minister of Finance with the flexibility to increase the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation’s deposit insurance limit beyond its current level of $100,000

The above items are just some of the measures the federal government is taking to address COVID-19. To view the full list of the items included in the legislation please click here.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Engineering and related professional services deemed “essential” by Ontario government ahead of provincial shut down to attempt to contain COVID-19 pandemic

Mar. 24, 2020

No. 20/007 – March 23, 2020

ISSUE:

This evening the Government of Ontario provided much sought detail on those businesses that will be permitted to remain open after 11:59pm Tuesday March 24, 2020. Ontario’s engineering and related consulting services appear to be wholly included on the list of those businesses defined as “essential”.

Due to the evolving situation of the COVID-19 pandemic, the province is ordering at-risk workplaces to close-down. Businesses that must close are however being encouraged to explore options to continue their operations through what it is calling “work-from-home and innovative business models”. While those businesses deemed essential will remain open, the government is reminding people associated with those businesses to enact “protocols for physical distancing and regular hand-washing in order to protect the health and safety of employees and the general public”.

Those businesses defined as essential include, but are not limited to grocery stores and pharmacies, telecommunications and IT infrastructure service providers, and businesses that support power generation, natural gas distribution and clean drinking water. The complete list of businesses the government has defined as essential can be found here. Employers and owners of these businesses are being asked to put into place any and all measures to safeguard the wellbeing of their employees.

Sectors of interest from the list of those businesses defined as essential include:

Institutional, Residential, Commercial and Industrial Maintenance

13. Businesses that provide support and maintenance services, including urgent repair, to maintain the safety, security, sanitation and essential operation of institutional, commercial industrial and residential properties and buildings, including, property management services, plumbers, electricians, custodial/janitorial workers, cleaning services, , security services, fire safety and sprinkler systems, building systems maintenance and repair technicians and engineers, mechanics, (e.g. HVAC, escalator and elevator technicians), and other service providers who provide similar services.

Construction

26. Construction projects and services associated with the healthcare sector, including new facilities, expansions, renovations and conversion of spaces that could be repurposed for health care space;

27. Construction projects and services required to ensure safe and reliable operations of critical provincial infrastructure, including transit, transportation, energy and justice sectors beyond the day-today maintenance;

28. Construction work and services, including demolition services, in the industrial, commercial, institutional and residential sectors; 29. Construction work and services that supports health and safety environmental rehabilitation projects

Resources

35. Businesses that ensure global continuity of supply of mining materials and products (e.g. metals such as copper, nickel and gold) and that support supply chains in Northern Ontario including; a. Mining operations, production and processing; b. Mineral exploration and development; c. Mining Supply and Services that support supply chains in the mining industry including maintenance of operations, health and safety.

Environmental Services

40. Businesses that support environmental management/monitoring and spill clean-up and response, including environmental consulting firms, professional engineers and geoscientists, septic haulers, well drillers, pesticides applicators and exterminators, management of industrial sewage/effluent (e.g. for mining operations), and environmental laboratories;

Utilities and Community Services

41. Utilities, and Businesses that support the provision of utilities and community services, including by providing products, materials and services needed for the delivery of utilities and community services: a. Waste Collection, Waste/ Sewage Treatment and Disposal, operation of landfills, and Hazardous Waste Disposal; b. Potable drinking water; c. Electricity Generation, transmission, distribution and storage; d. Natural Gas distribution, transmission and storage, e. Road construction and maintenance; f. police, fire, emergency services including coroner services and pathology services ; g. corrections and courts services; h. other government services including licenses and permits;

42. Businesses engaged in or supporting the operation, maintenance and repair of critical infrastructure (railways, dams, bridges, highways, erosion control structures, etc.);

65. Professional services including lawyers and para-legals, engineers, accountants, translators;

While emphasizing essential businesses in tonight’s announcement, the government is also reminding everyone that teleworking and online commerce are permitted at all times for all businesses.

The list contained in tonight’s announcement speaks broadly to numerous sectors. Questions will undoubtedly emerge about specific practices and services and clarification by government may be necessary.

If you have any questions about this bulletin do not hesitate to contact David Zurawel at [email protected] or Catherine Morrison, [email protected]. Please note that CEO has closed its office but employees remain active at this time. We will continue to closely monitor government activity and provide update to members on important developments as information becomes available.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Ontario Passes Emergency Pandemic Legislation

Mar. 20, 2020

No. 20/006 – March 20, 2020

ISSUE:

The Ontario Legislature convened Thursday afternoon at 1:00 pm for an emergency session. With the minimum number of MPPs required to achieve quorum to pass legislation Premier Ford tabled two pieces of legislation to enable the province to take steps to manage the COVID-19 pandemic:

The Employment Standards Amendment Act (Infectious Disease Emergencies), 2020, provides job protection for employees unable to work and who are in quarantine or self-isolation, including parents who need to look after children because of school or daycare closures, or to care for other relatives, retroactive to January 25, 2020. Additional details about the specifics of the Act can be found here.
The Municipal Emergency Act, 2020, allows municipal councils and local boards to meet electronically when in-person meetings cannot be held, as well as ensuring that municipal noise by-laws don’t impact urgent deliveries.

Both bills were passed with unanimous consent by the 26 MPPs present at Queen’s Park. The government also acted to extend the validity of several pieces of identification, including drivers' licences, health cards, and plate renewals. Additional details on these extensions can be found here. They have also committed to continuing the delivery of time-critical services including Motor Vehicle Inspection Station Stock orders and Single-Trip Oversize/Overweight permits.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Government of Canada announces $82 billion economic support plan to combat impacts of COVID-19 pandemic

Mar. 18, 2020

No. 20/005 – March 18, 2020

Issue:

Today Prime Minister Trudeau and Finance Minister Bill Morneau announced the federal government’s $82 billion economic response plan to address the impacts of COVID-19. While the government is taking extraordinary measures during these extraordinary times, the Prime Minister has emphasized that Canadians will receive the support that they need and that Canada is in a strong economic position to adapt and evolve with the current state of affairs.

The $82 billion package which represents 3% of Canada’s GDP includes $27 billion in direct supports and $55 billion to help business liquidity for business and household needs through tax deferrals.

Outlined below are just some of the direct support measures that the federal government is taking to respond to COVID-19. A full detailed list of the government’s economic stimulus package can be found here.

The emergency aid plan includes:

Support for Workers:

A temporary boost to Canada Child Benefit payments, delivering about $2 billion in extra support;
A new Emergency Care Benefit of up to $900 biweekly, up to 15 weeks, to provide income support to workers, including the self-employed, who have to stay home and don't qualify for paid sick leave or employment insurance (EI). The measure could disburse up to $10 billion;
A new Emergency Support Benefit to provide up to $5 billion in support to workers who are not eligible for EI and who are facing unemployment;
Provide increased flexibility to lenders to defer mortgage payments on homeowner government-insured mortgage loans to borrowers who may be experiencing financial difficulties related to the outbreak;
Extend the tax filing deadline for individuals to June 1, 2020

Support for Businesses

Allow all businesses to defer, until after August 31, 2020, the payment of any income tax amounts that become owing on or after today and before September 2020;
Increase the credit available to small, medium, and large Canadian businesses;
Further expand Export Development Canada’s ability to provide support to domestic businesses;
Support businesses that are facing revenue losses and to help prevent lay-offs, provide eligible small employers a temporary wage subsidy for a period of three months

Support for Vulnerable Groups

Reduce the minimum withdrawals from RRIFs by 25% for 2020.
Implement a six-month, interest-free, moratorium on Canada Student Loan payments.
Provide $305 million for a new distinctions-based Indigenous Community Support Fund
$50 million to women’s shelters and sexual assault centers.

In order to move forward with implementing these new measures needed to provide timely support for Canadians and to ensure the Government is able address potential challenges that may arise, the Government intends to introduce special legislation and seek the approval of Parliament.

If you have any questions about this bulletin do not hesitate to contact David Zurawel at [email protected] or Catherine Morrison, [email protected]. Please note that CEO has closed its office but employees remain active at this time. We will continue to closely monitor government activity and provide update to members on important developments as information becomes available.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Government of Ontario Declares State of Emergency amid COVID-19

Mar. 18, 2020

No. 20/004 – March 17, 2020

Issue:

The Government of Ontario announced today that it is declaring a state of emergency under s 7.0.1 (1) the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act. Please note that the Premier has emphasized that this is not a provincial shutdown; essential services and supply chains remain supported. Grocery stores and pharmacies will remain open, public transit is still available and construction projects will continue. Several establishments have been legally required to close. Please click here for a list of establishments that will not be providing services until further notice.

The government has also advised under direction from Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health that all organized public events of over fifty (50) people are prohibited. This order was approved by the Lieutenant Governor in Council and will remain in place until March 31, 2020, at which point they will be reassessed and considered for extension, unless this order is terminated earlier.

The government is investing $304 million to respond to COVID-19. Below is a monetary breakdown of the measures being taken by Ontario:

$100 million for increased capacity in hospitals;
$50 million for more testing and screening through public health, including additional funding to support extraordinary costs incurred to monitor, detect and contain COVID-19 in the province;
$50 million to further protect frontline workers, first responders and patients;
$25 million to support frontline workers working in COVID-19 assessment centres;
$50 million for long-term care homes to support 24/7 screening;
$20 million for residential facilities in developmental services, gender-based services and protective care for children and youth to support additional staffing, respite for caregivers impacted by school closures, personal protective equipment and supplies and transportation costs to minimize client exposure and to support social distancing
$5 million to protect seniors in retirement homes
$4 million for Indigenous communities to support transportation costs for health care professionals and the distribution of critical supplies.

For more information on the government’s measures to address COVID-19 please follow this link.

Conclusion:

If you have any questions about this bulletin do not hesitate to contact David Zurawel at [email protected] or Catherine Morrison, cmorriso[email protected]. Please note that CEO has closed its office but employees remain active at this time. CEO will be providing an update on our activities in the near future.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Proceed Cautiously with Indemnity Agreements in Ontario-based Contracts

Mar. 18, 2020

No. 20/003 – March 13, 2020

Issue:

HUB International has informed CEO that AXA XL has highlighted an issue related to indemnity agreements for contracts written in Ontario. Members are advised to beware of indemnity agreements that include language such as “hold harmless” or “save/hold harmless”. This language is being interpreted in Ontario as providing a duty to defend the client, which is not insurable by professional liability insurance policies.

The case law started with Stewart Title Guarantee Company v. Zeppieri, (2009) O.J. No. 332. In this case, in 2009, the Ontario Superior Court of Justice held, without providing any support, that “the contractual obligation to save harmless, in my view, is broader than that of indemnification, in that someone having the benefit of a hold harmless provision should never have to put his hand in his pocket with respect to the claim”.

Over the last several years, courts have been relying on the Stewart Title decision to distinguish between the terms “indemnity” and “save/hold harmless”. They have defined “hold/save harmless” to mean the indemnified party should be saved/held harmless from any costs, including upfront defence costs. This continues to be a grey area. Out of an abundance of caution CEO members should be taking the issue off the table through contract wording. Please see the following sample indemnity agreement that has been written by AXA XL:

The Consultant agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Client against all damages arising directly from the Consultant's negligent performance of the services under this Agreement.

HUB has also advised CEO members to add the following in red clause to indemnity agreements to clarify that your firm will not be defending the client. This has also been written by AXA XL:

Notwithstanding the duty to indemnity and hold harmless, the parties expressly agree that the Consultant has no duty to defend or fund or the defence of the Client from and against any claims, causes of action, or proceedings of any kind. However, the Consultant expressly agrees, after adjudication by a court of competent jurisdiction, to reimburse the Client pursuant to this provision for any costs and fees determined by court to have been reasonably, necessarily and actually incurred by the Client In the defence of those claims specifically caused by the Consultant’s negligence.

Conclusion

If you have any questions about this bulletin, do not hesitate to contact your insurer or David Zurawel at (416) 620-1400 ext. 222 or [email protected] or Catherine Morrison, (416) 620-1400 Ext. 226 or via email [email protected].

ADVISORY TO MEMBERS: City of Kingston RFP contains problematic terms and conditions

Feb. 3, 2020

No. 20/002 – February 3, 2020

Issue:

Consulting Engineers of Ontario (CEO) is advising members to use caution and consult their insurance and legal counsel before submitting project proposals to the City of Kingston. CEO recently proposed amendments for the City’s Request for Proposal No. F31-CES-FMCS-2019-18- Asset Inventory and Building Condition Assessments for Various Locations. Consequently, member firms considering future RFP submissions are advised that some terms and conditions will be very difficult, if not impossible, to adequately insure through our industry’s insurance providers.

CEO Position:

Provisions in the City’s RFP creates five significant areas of concern for Consultants:

Section 4.02 Deliverables Warranty requires Consultants to ensure that their deliverables “will be free from defects in material, workmanship and design”. This provision goes beyond a Consultant’s standard of care.

The RFP language, includes the terms “Warranty” and “warrants”. Both imply an unattainable standard of perfection for the Consultant to achieve therefore, it was recommended that these terms be removed. CEO also noted that clauses addressing deliverables for professional services should not be subject to revision of work based on a broad “opinion” of the City. CEO proposed that the City use the industry’s accepted standard of care language when establishing requirements for the delivery of professional services.

Section 6.05 Injunctive and Other Relief allows the City to arbitrarily “obtain” injunctive relief without any substantial proof of damage

CEO explained to the City that is unreasonable for a client to impose this requirement and recommended that this clause should be amended to state that “…the Owner is entitled to seek injunctive relief…” upon the basis of proven damage.

Section 7.03 Ownership of Intellectual Property allows the City to have sole ownership over any “Newly Created Intellectual Property” created by the Consultant over the course of the project.

It is unreasonable for the City to impose a one-sided and unilateral decision to obtain a Consultant’s Intellectual Property “… immediately following the creation thereof, for all time”. CEO also pointed out that this provision may hinder Consultants from developing proprietary deliverables, which will stifle innovation for infrastructure projects. CEO recommended that this clause be removed.

Section 7.04 Supplier’s Grant of License allows the City to City to boundlessly use the Consultant’s Intellectual Property

CEO noted the City would be exposing itself to substantial risk should it use the Consultant’s Intellectual Property for potential designs or other products outside of the scope of their originally intended purpose. Further, should the City or its agents inappropriately modify or use this intellectual property under such conditions, it would subject the Consultant to an unreasonable liability over which it would have no control.

CEO proposed that the City replaces 7.03 Ownership of Intellectual Property and 7.04 Supplier’s Grant of License with the Intellectual Property clause found in the current version of the MEA/CEO Client/Engineer Agreement for Professional Consulting Services.

Section 8.01 Supplier Indemnity would be very difficult, if not impossible for CEO member firms to obtain adequate and appropriate professional liability insurance coverage due to the overly broad terms and conditions.

The City’s indemnification clause is problematic as it is not expressly tied to Consultant negligence. The clause creates an expectation that Consultants “…indemnify and hold harmless the Indemnified Parties for any incidental, indirect, special or consequential damages…”. CEO informed the City that damages that are not expressly and reasonably tied to a Consultant’s negligent acts, errors, or omissions are very difficult to insure as our member’s professional liability coverage does not apply.

CEO proposed that the City replaces 8.01 Supplier Indemnity with the Indemnification clause in the current version of the MEA/CEO Client/Engineer Agreement for Professional Consulting Services.

Conclusion:

CEO is therefore advising members to carefully review the terms and conditions of assignments from the City of Kingston. Member firms should consult with their insurance and legal counsel before accepting any questionable agreement terms. Should you experience difficulty, contact CEO and make use of our contract Rapid Response Service. CEO staff will work with you to assess the problem and where possible develop an industry position addressing your concerns that we will use to advocate on your behalf to try and achieve necessary change.

Should you have any questions about this advisory, our Rapid Response Service or any other industry issue, please contact David Zurawel at [email protected] or (416) 620.1400 ext. 222 or Catherine Morrison at [email protected] or (416) 620-1400 ext. 226.

Bulletin to Members: Infrastructure Ontario Releases Winter 2020 Update to P3 Project Pipeline

Jan. 30, 2020

No. 20/001 – January 30, 2020

ISSUE:

This morning Infrastructure Ontario released its Winter 2020 P3 Market Update document (project pipeline).

Minister of Infrastructure Laurie Scott and agency president and chief executive officer Ehren Cory last fall announced a new program of regular updates for the project pipeline. The program will provide full updates in the spring and fall seasons, including information on new projects coming into the market. Minor updates during the winter and summer seasons will focus on scheduling adjustments to current projects.

The Winter 2020 Project Pipeline includes changes to four projects:

Ontario Line Subway project financial close has been updated to Spring 2022;
Grandview Children’s Treatment Centre has moved into pre-procurement from project planning;
QEW Credit River Bridge project financial close has been updated to September 2020; and,
GO Expansion: Union Station Upgrade – Platform Expansion project has been updated to reflect the use of Alliance procurement, the issuing of the RFP in February 2020 and financial close in Winter 2021. A copy of the pipeline document can be found here.

CONCLUSION

If you have any questions about this bulletin, do not hesitate to contact David Zurawel at (416) 620-1400 ext. 222 or [email protected] or Catherine Morrison, (416) 620-1400 Ext. 226 or via email [email protected].

Communiqué to Members: InnServices issues addendum to include negligence-based indemnification language however, additional concerns remain unaddressed

Nov. 12, 2019

No. 19/005 – November 12, 2019

Background:

On October 21, 2019 CEO informed InnServices of its concerns with multiple clauses contained in RFP No. P-19-CWW251- Engineering Services for Sewage Pumping Station # 4 Upgrades. InnServices issued a subsequent addendum that addressed CEO’s concerns pertaining to the Section 8.01 Supplier Indemnity clause. The revised language includes terms for negligence-based indemnification. While CEO recognizes and appreciates this revision, InnServices did not address the other issues brought to its attention.

CEO’s Position:

CEO has identified the following additional clauses of concern that have not been addressed:

2.01 Lack of Reciprocal Indemnity

CEO highlights that this clause does not provide for reciprocal indemnity from InnServices to the Consultant. CEO expressed that such expectations were not reasonable and did not reflect a balanced approach to indemnification that should be applied to public infrastructure projects in Ontario, therefore CEO recommended that this clause be removed.

3.05 Responsibility of Supplier

This clause establishes the Consultant’s liability for the conduct of its directors, officers, employees, agents, partners, affiliates, volunteers and subcontractors without limiting the liability to negligent acts or omission. CEO informed InnServices that Consultants cannot be appropriately insured and bear the liability for “…all damages, costs, expenses, losses, claims or actions arising from any breach of the Contract resulting from the actions of the above-mentioned individuals and entities” unless these provisions are the result of negligent errors or omissions. CEO proposed that the clause be amended so as to facilitate the Consultant’s ability to secure the required insurance.

4.02 Deliverables Warranty

CEO informed InnServices that this clause was more applicable to an equipment/material supply contract and not appropriate for a Professional Services contract. CEO recommended that this clause be removed. CEO also noted that any clauses addressing deliverables for professional services should not be subject to revision of work based on a broad “opinion” of InnServices. CEO further recommended that the following language be inserted into clauses that address deliverables and potential rectification: “Any rectification notice must have reasonable request for corrections referencing the original scope of work, the Contract, Industry Standards, and/or Requirements of Law”.

6.05 Injunctive and Other Relief

It is CEO’s position that it is unreasonable and unacceptable for Consultants to abide by InnServices’ ability to arbitrarily “obtain” injunctive relief without any proof of damage. CEO recommended that this clause be amended to state that “…InnServices is entitled to seek injunctive relief…” upon the basis of proven damage.

Conclusion:

Members who have bid on Request for Proposal No. P-19-CWW251- Engineering Services for Sewage Pumping Station # 4 Upgrades should be aware that while InnServices has updated its indemnification clause with negligence-based language, there are still several areas of concern in the contract.

CEO encourages member firms to refer to the commentary above when bidding on current and future projects with InnServices and continues to recommend a thorough review of all RFP and contract documents.

Should you have any questions about this bulletin, our Rapid Response Service or any other industry issue, please contact David Zurawel at [email protected] or 416.620.1400 ext. 222 or Catherine Morrison, (416) 620.1400 Ext. 226 or via email [email protected].

ADVISORY TO MEMBERS: Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury RFP contains problematic Terms and Conditions

Nov. 12, 2019

No. 19/006 – November 11, 2019

Issue:

Consulting Engineers of Ontario (CEO) is advising members to use caution and consult their insurance and legal counsel before submitting project proposals to the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury. CEO recently proposed amendments for the Town’s Request for Proposal No. P-19-64- Professional Engineering Consulting Services for the Bradford Water Pollution Control Plant Reviews and Upgrades Project. The Town has yet to respond to our concerns. Consequently, member firms considering future RFP submissions are advised that some terms and conditions will be very difficult, if not impossible, to adequately insure through our industry’s insurance providers.

CEO Position:

CEO strongly believes that having fair, insurable agreements attracts more positive interest from the consulting engineering industry and leads to better project outcomes for clients.

Provisions in the Town’s RFP create five significant areas of caution for Consultants:

Section 4.02 Deliverables Warranty appears to be applicable to an equipment/material supply contract, as such its inclusion in a Professional Services contract is not appropriate as it contains language that exceeds a reasonable Standard of Care.

CEO informed the Town that provisions such as “shall be free from defects in material, workmanship and design” go beyond a Consultant’s standard of care. CEO also noted that this language, and the inclusion of “Warranty” in the title of the clause imply an unattainable standard of perfection and recommended it be removed. CEO also informed the town that clauses addressing deliverables for professional services should not be subject to revision of work based on a broad “opinion”. CEO recommended that the following alternative language be used to address deliverables: “Any rectification notice must have reasonable request for corrections referencing the original scope of work, the Contract, Industry Standards, and/or Requirements of Law”.

Section 6.05 Injunctive and Other Relief allows the Town to arbitrability obtain injunctive relief

CEO believes strongly that the requirement for the Consultant to abide by the ability for the Town to arbitrarily “obtain” injunctive relief without any substantial evidence of damage is unreasonable and unacceptable. CEO recommended that the clause be amended to state that owners are entitled to seek injunctive relief upon the basis of proven damage.

Section 8.01 Consultant Indemnity establishes a one-sided indemnity and is not limited to a Consultant’s negligence acts, errors, and omissions.

As written, this indemnification clause does not require the Town to provide any obligation of indemnification for any acts that would cause harm/damage to the Consultant. CEO also informed the Town that requiring Consultants to indemnify and hold harmless the “Indemnified parties from and against any and all [Claims]” is a problematic requirement when not expressly tied to a Consultant’s negligence.

Section 8.01 Consultant Indemnity requires Consultants to indemnify vaguely defined parties who may not be under the care and control of Consultants.

CEO informed that Town that the inclusion of indemnified parties such as “independent contractors” is not reasonable as Consultants cannot be expected to assume any liability for any damages or delays caused by parties outside of their control or responsibility. CEO also noted that the provision “or otherwise in connection with, the Contract” further aggravates this condition by creating a vaguely defined liability that would include parties that are outside of the Consultant’s control or responsibility. CEO proposed that the Town omit both of the aforementioned terms so as to establish a reasonable limitation of liability for the Consultant.

Section 8.01 Consultant Indemnity subjects Consultants to undue penalties for unreasonable damages.

The clause creates an expectation that Consultants “…indemnify and hold harmless the Indemnified Parties for any incidental, indirect, special or consequential damages…”. CEO advised the Town that these types of damages are very often difficult to accurately quantify, and as such are prone to create a liability to be borne by the Consultant that is disproportionate to the risk inherent to the services they are contracted to provide.

Conclusion:

CEO encourages members to make project decisions on a case-by-case basis, having carefully reviewed the terms and conditions and considered the merits of individual assignments. Consult with your insurance and legal counsel before accepting any questionable agreement terms; and should you experience difficulty, contact CEO and make use of our contract Rapid Response Service. CEO staff will work with you to assess the problem and where possible develop an industry position addressing your concerns that we will use to advocate on your behalf to try and achieve necessary change.

Bulletin to Members: Adjudication is in full effect in Ontario: this is what you need to know

Nov. 8, 2019

No. 19/008 – November 8, 2019

Issue

On October 1^st, 2019 the prompt payment and adjudication provisions of Ontario’s Construction Act (“the Act”) came into effect. The Ontario Dispute Adjudication for Construction Contracts (“ODACC”), also known as the Authorized Nominating Authority (“ANA”) under the Act, has published its pre-designed adjudication processes, timelines and fees as this final phase of the Act comes into force. CEO is encouraging member firms to carefully read the summary below on the adjudication processes and the related timelines and fees. Full details on the adjudication regime are available on the ODACC website. CEO is strongly urging member firms to familiarize themselves with the details of the adjudication process and to understand the obligations that now exist under the new law.

Adjudication

The adjudication process is intended to resolve construction disputes outside of the courts or alternative dispute resolution processes in a timely fashion, as the project is being completed, and to keep money flowing through the construction pyramid. It provides for the Adjudicator to render a determination a maximum of 30-days after receiving the documents of the party referring the matter to adjudication, unless both parties agree to an extension. The scope of issues that can be adjudicated are limited to; valuation of services, payment (including changes orders or proposed change orders), notices of non-payment, claims for set-off (against liens or trusts), payment or non-payment of holdback, and other disputes to which parties agree.

While the Adjudicator has the discretion to conduct adjudications in the manner he or she determines is appropriate for the circumstances, the ODACC has prepared the following four pre-designed Adjudication Processes to:

allow Parties to have a sense of the anticipated cost to adjudicate their dispute;
allow Parties to have some input into the Adjudicator’s decision regarding the design of the appropriate process;
help Adjudicators to ensure that the cost of the process is proportionate to the amount in dispute; and
minimize disputes between Parties and the Adjudicator that could arise over fees.
Pre-Designed Adjudication Process #1 (Two-Page Written Adjudication):

Adjudication in writing only, with the submissions of Parties’ arguments and photographs limited to two (2) pages per Party (not including a copy of the construction contract and disputed invoice, both of which must be submitted); and the adjudicator’s determination is expected to be approximately one to two (1-2) pages.

Pre-Designed Adjudication Process #2 (Five-Page Written Adjudication):

Adjudication in writing only, with the submissions of Parties’ arguments and photographs limited to five (5) pages per Party (not including a copy of the construction contract and disputed invoice, both of which must be submitted); and the adjudicator’s determination is expected to be approximately one to two (1-2) pages.

Pre-Designed Adjudication Process #3 (Five-Page Written Adjudication plus Ten Pages of Documents):

Adjudication in writing only, with the submissions of Parties’ arguments and photographs limited to five (5) pages per Party (not including a copy of the construction contract and disputed invoice, both of which must be submitted); Each Party may submit additional documents, parts of documents and witness statements to a maximum of ten (10) pages; and the adjudicator’s determination is expected to be approximately five (5) pages.

Pre-Designed Adjudication Process #4 (Oral Webcast Adjudication, Ten Page Submissions and Documents):

Submission of Parties’ arguments and photographs is limited to ten (10) pages per Party (not including a copy of the construction contract and disputed invoice, both of which must be submitted); Each Party may submit additional documents, parts of documents, and witness statements to a maximum of 25 pages (in total); Each Party has half an hour to make an oral presentation; Presentation can be conducted by videoconference or teleconference (but will not be in person); and Determination is expected to be approximately five (5) pages.

An important aspect of these pre-designed processes is that they all allow for submission of disputed contracts and invoices. This puts an increased significance on the wording and language used in parties’ contracts and invoices at all levels of a project. CEO is encouraging member firms to work with project clients to have included in their contracts the terms and conditions necessary to accommodate the processes and timelines required to facilitate the proper execution of their professional services according to the new system. Equally important, CEO is encouraging member firms, if they have not already done so, to review and modify their internal document management and information systems. The nature and tight timelines of the adjudication process will require firms to modify current protocols so that project-relevant information such as proposals, agreements, drawings, invoices, emails, notes and memos can be produced and shared in a timely fashion. A firm’s success at adjudication will chiefly be driven by having on-hand fact-based evidence.

Timelines

The ODACC has also published several suggested adjudication timelines based on the Act. All four pre-designed adjudication processes have the same first four suggested steps (with some slight deviations depending on the selected process). Each timeline begins with the appointment of an adjudicator:

Day 1: The adjudicator is selected by the parties or appointed by ODACC.
Day 5: Claimant sets out its position, provides a copy of the construction contract and disputed invoice, and supplies any documents that it intends to rely on
Day 7: The adjudicator determines the balance of the adjudication process and communicates that to the parties, including the respondent’s deadline to respond to the claimant’s submission
Day 12: The respondent submits a response

Following these first stages of each adjudications process, the remaining steps are suggested as follows (determined by the nature of the pre-designed processes):

Pre-designed Adjudication Processes 1-3 all require an adjudicator’s Draft Determination to be provided to ODACC on Day 20.
Pre-designed Adjudication Processes 4 requires an oral hearing on Day 18 followed by the adjudicator’s Draft Determination to be provided to ODACC on Day 25.

Unless an extension is granted, having been agreed to by the parties to the adjudication, the entire adjudication process for all pre-designed options state that a decision will be released by ODACC 35 days after an adjudicator is appointed pursuant to the requirements in the Act. Please visit the ODACC website for additional timeline details.

Fees

The adjudication process comes with associated Adjudication Fees that may be agreed upon by the Claimants, Respondents and Adjudicator. In the event that the Parties and Adjudicator are not able to agree upon the fee, the ODACC has set the following Adjudication Fee structure:

Adjudication Fee, if Parties and Adjudicator Do Not Agree on the Adjudication Fee

Amount Claimed on Notice of Adjudication	Adjudication Fee
≤ $9,999	$800
$10,000 ≤ $24,999	$1,000
$25,000 ≤ $34,999	$2,000
$35,000 ≤ $49,999	$3,000
$50,000 ≤ $249,999	Adjudicator hourly rate of $250
$250,000 ≤ $499,999	Adjudicator hourly rate of $400
$500,000 ≤ $1,000,000	Adjudicator hourly rate of $500
> $1,000,000	Adjudicator hourly rate of $750

Please see the ODACC website for additional information on Adjudication Fees, Adjudication Referral Fees, Certification Fees, and Adjudicator Appointment Fees.

What this means for CEO Members

The adjudication process is expected to help resolve disputes for any construction procurements that commenced as of October 1, 2019. Now that different adjudication processes have been clearly established, CEO expects to see an eventual increase in disputes using this system as parties learn to apply and respond to the new rules. CEO members should prepare and familiarize themselves with the adjudication processes, timelines, and fees.

Conclusion

For more information on Adjudication Processes, Timelines and Fees, please visit the ODACC website at www.odacc.ca. Should you have any questions about this bulletin, please contact David Zurawel at [email protected] or 416.620.1400 ext. 222 or Catherine Morrison, (416) 620.1400 Ext. 226 or via email [email protected].

ADVISORY TO MEMBERS: INSTANCES OF MUNICIPAL ASSIGNMENT DOCUMENTS MISREPRESENTING THE MEA/CEO CLIENT/ENGINEER AGREEMENT FOR PROFESSIONAL CONSULTING SERVICES HAVE OCCURRED

Sep. 26, 2019

No. 19/005 – September 26, 2019

Issue:

It has been brought to CEO’s attention that some municipalities are using outdated versions of the MEA/CEO Client/Engineer Agreement for Professional Consulting Services (“MEA/CEO Agreement”), or are altering the copyrighted document and/or falsely presenting their own terms and conditions as the MEA/CEO Agreement. These alternate versions of the Agreement are in violation of copyright and can contain uninsurable and unacceptable terms and conditions. CEO is advising member firms to use caution and carefully review anything that appears to be the MEA/CEO Agreement that is contained in municipal assignment documents.

CEO Position:

It is CEO’s position that municipalities should not be procuring professional services under the guise of the MEA/CEO Agreement if the terms and conditions have been altered. Member firms should not accept any terms and conditions or sign any municipal contracts presented as the MEA/CEO Agreement before reviewing the language against the official document.

CEO has updated the MEA/CEO Agreement to a fillable field format that enables consultants and municipalities to customize the agreement for individual projects and to easily make necessary changes through supplementary conditions. To view the up to date Agreement, please click here. Please note that CEO will be updating the MEA/CEO Agreement to conform with the upcoming changes to the Construction Act.

Conclusion:

While the misuse and misrepresentation of the MEA/CEO Standard Agreement in municipal assignment documents may not be widespread, CEO is notifying member firms to be cautious as they could potentially be accepting unreasonable and/or uninsurable terms and conditions. Should you encounter an altered version of the MEA/CEO Standard Agreement, CEO is encouraging member firms to contact their insurance provider, legal counsel and us to make use of our contract Rapid Response Service.

Should you have any questions about this advisory, the MEA/CEO Standard Agreement or any other industry issue, please contact David Zurawel at [email protected] or (416) 620.1400 ext. 222 or Catherine Morrison at [email protected] or (416) 620-1400 ext. 226.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION (COR™): WHAT IMPACT & IMPLICATIONS THE CONSULTING ENGINEERING INDUSTRY NEEDS TO CONSIDER

Sep. 26, 2019

No. 19/006 – September 19, 2019

Issue:

Since 2015, CEO has identified the Certificate of Recognition (COR™) as an emerging issue requiring the attention of the Consulting Engineering industry. Public sector clients are increasingly expecting Consultants and professional service providers to be COR™ registered or certified as a requirement to qualify for their project assignments. While COR™ was initially developed for contractors and subcontractors, the market is evolving to use COR™ as a risk management tool to vet proponents based on their commitment to a quality occupational health and safety management system. The philosophy behind the requirement of COR™ for Consultants bidding on public work is continuing to spread throughout provincial and municipal procurement systems across the province.

Most notably, Infrastructure Ontario, Metrolinx, the City of Toronto, Toronto Transit Corporation, City of Brampton, and Town of Milton all have COR™ requirements for professional services proponents. The number of participating public sector clients is expected to continue to grow.

Background:

Introduced to Ontario in 2011, COR™ became a requirement for contractors and sub-contractors working on provincial government and agency projects. As a health and safety management system, COR™ is aimed to reduce the human and financial costs associated with workplace incidents and injuries and provides a foundation to develop, monitor, and advance a firm’s health and safety as well as mitigate risk.

As COR™ continues to integrate into the Ontario marketplace, there has been a clear desire from public clients to have both their Contractors and Consultants aligned with the same safety culture, and as such they have decided to make COR™ registration and/or certification a requirement for Consultants within their RFPs.

Conclusion:

Member firms can expect to see an increased requirement to be COR™ registered and/or certified in more public sector RFPs. Consulting Engineers need to consider and anticipate the growing public sector client requirement to be COR™ certified/registered. Please see the attached background document for more detailed information on COR™ in the Consulting Engineering industry.

For information on your role as Consultant and the COR™ certification process please contact David Zurawel at 416-620-1400 ext. 222 or Catherine Morrison at 416-620-1400 ext. 226.

Communiqué to Members: City of Ottawa to consider proposed revisions during Negotiations stage of RFP evaluation process

Sep. 10, 2019

No. 19/003 – September 10, 2019

Background:

On August 23, 2019 CEO informed the City of Ottawa of our industry’s concerns with the Indemnification clause, and other clauses related to standard of care for Consultants, within its RFP for a Solid Waste Master Plan (RFP No. 19419-91843-P01). The City promptly responded to CEO offering to issue an Addendum permitting respondents to propose amendments to the City’s General Terms and Conditions for consideration during the Negotiations stage of the evaluation process.

Currently, the City is reviewing the in-depth comments and feedback provided by CEO member firms. CEO appreciates the City’s flexibility and willingness to negotiate important conditions such as those within this RFP.

CEO’s Position:

CEO has highlighted the following issues of concern in the identified clauses:

5.2. Indemnification

It is CEO’s position that this clause compromised the Professional Liability insurance coverage that CEO member firms are required to carry. The clause as presently written compromises CEO members’ ability to obtain appropriate coverage. CEO proposed that the City amend its current indemnification clause to reflect negligence-based indemnification.

2.2.4. Conduct of Work

Section 2.2.4 under Conduct of Work required that the Consultant’s work “…be free from any defect in manufacture, material and workmanship”. CEO noted that this provision created an unattainable standard of perfection for Consultants to achieve. Further, CEO proposed that the City strike the “warranty” provision in this clause. CEO informed the City that Professional Liability policies expressly exclude warranties for professional services as their inclusion creates an unrealistic and unachievable standard.

2.22.1. Staff and Methods

Section 2.22.1 under Staff and Methods required Consultants to “perform the Work to a professional standard in accordance with current “best practices”. CEO informed the City that the term “current best practices” is relative, subjective, vague and should be altered to read as “current industry standard practices” to accurately capture the professional standard to which Consultants are accountable.

7.0. Quality Control of Services and Deliverables

It is CEO’s position that Section 7.0 Quality Control of Services and Deliverables also elevated a Consultant’s standard of care by requiring “high quality deliverables”. CEO recommended that the City removes the term “high”. Further, CEO also held the position that the “the expectation is that all deliverables, including drafts, are to be free of errors, contradictions and spelling mistakes” is broad and a potential risk for undue liability. CEO recommended that this provision be qualified by negligence.

Conclusion:

Members who have bid on Request for Proposal No. 19419-91843-P01- Solid Waste Master Plan should be aware that the City will be open to negotiations at the evaluation stage of this bid document. CEO encourages member firms to refer to the commentary above when negotiating with the City of Ottawa and continues to recommend a thorough review of all RFP and contract documents by member firms for their projects, even in instances where there are multiple projects with the same client.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENT OF ADR CHAMBERS INC. AS AUTHORIZED NOMINATING AUTHORITY (ANA) TO ADMINISTER ADJUDICATION REGIME UNDER ONTARIO’S CONSTRUCTION ACT

Aug. 29, 2019

No. 19/004 – August 1, 2019

ISSUE

On July 18th 2019, the Ministry of the Attorney General announced the appointment of ADR Chambers Inc. to act as the Authorized Nominating Authority (ANA or the “Authority”) to administer Ontario’s adjudication regime under the Construction Act. The Authority will oversee the adjudication process for construction disputes, including the training and qualification of adjudicators. This appointment brings Ontario one step closer to the full implementation of the Act. This is expected to take place on October 1, 2019 with the proclamation of the regulations enabling the new prompt payment and adjudication regimes.

ADR Chambers Inc. delivers alternative dispute resolution services across a broad range of sectors and industries. Based on the provisions of the Construction Act, the Authority will be responsible for, among other things:

Creating a website to enable parties to learn about adjudication and access services
Providing a public registry of adjudicators
Developing and overseeing training programs for adjudicators
Qualifying individuals who meet the prescribed requirements as adjudicators
Maintaining a fee schedule, a code of conduct, and a complaints procedure
If requested by the parties, appointing an adjudicator to a dispute from a roster which it will maintain
Publishing educational materials regarding the adjudication process and an annual report

The Authority will operate independently of government and will be self-funded. Preparations are currently underway for regular operations and an adjudication website is being developed that will include information about the Authority’s process for qualifying as an adjudicator.

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR CEO MEMBERS

The long-awaited appointment of the ANA clears the way for the government to proceed with its proclamation of regulations to bring in to force Ontario’s prompt payment and adjudication regimes on October 1, 2019. However, with just two months remaining before this deadline, much work remains to be done.

Before the first adjudication can take place the ANA must first establish, publish and recruit adjudicator candidates from qualifications criteria. The intake process and architecture needs to be created and operationalized, facilitating their selection, training and certification. Only once this is in place and properly functioning can a functional and accountable roster of available adjudicators be made available to the public. Supporting this is the need for an enforceable code of conduct and oversight process.

Last, but certainly not least, the ANA must develop fees for adjudication services. Much speculation remains about what adjudication fees will be and how they will be established. Certainly, the spirit of the law is a motivated by the principle of dispute resolution addressed in real time, reasonably, as projects continue. The emphasis is on avoiding the lengthy and costly process of going to court. With that in mind, general consensus among industry stakeholders is that adjudicators will operate under a reasonable daily fee. The question that remains is what that fee will be and what process will be used to establish that fee. It is not unreasonable for Ontario’s infrastructure sector to expect the ANA to hold meaningful public consultations on how that fee will be set.

A lot remains to be achieved in a short span of time. While adjudication notices are not expected to start flowing immediately following the October 1st implementation date of the new regime, it is not unreasonable for the infrastructure sector to expect that this system would be in place and functional in time for the enabling regulations to come in to force. CEO is continuing to actively pursue information on this issue and where possible shape the creation and implementation of as efficient and effective an alternative dispute resolution system as possible.

CONCLUSION

Should you have any questions about this bulletin, please contact David Zurawel at [email protected] or 416.620.1400 ext. 222 or Catherine Morrison, (416) 620.1400 Ext. 226 or via email [email protected]

ADVISORY TO MEMBERS: UNITED COUNTIES OF PRESCOTT RUSSELL RFP CONTAIN PROBLEMATIC TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Aug. 29, 2019

No. 19/004 – August 29, 2019

Issue:

Consulting Engineers of Ontario (CEO) is advising members to use caution and consult their insurance and legal counsel before submitting project proposals to the United Counties of Prescott Russell. CEO recently proposed amendments for Prescott Russell’s Request for Proposal No. PW2019-25 to improve Section A. Information for Bidders, Section 15. Liability Insurance, Section B. General Conditions, Section 13. Representations, Warranties and Conditions, and Section C. Project Information and Terms of Reference, Section 6. Health and Safety and Section 8. Liquidated Damages/Penalties. Prescott Russell acknowledged CEO’s comments but has not modified its terms and conditions. Consequently, member firms considering future RFP submissions are advised that some terms and conditions will be very difficult, if not impossible, to adequately insure through our industry’s insurance providers.

CEO Position:

CEO strongly believes that having fair, insurable agreements attracts more positive interest from the consulting engineering industry and leads to better project outcomes for clients.

The provisions in Prescott Russell’s RFP creates six significant problems for CEO members:

Section A. Information for Bidders, Section 15. Liability Insurance contains several insurance extensions that are unreasonable to require from Consultants.

The requested Commercial General Liability insurance extensions under Sub-Section I include the “Removal or weakening of support of any property, building, or land, whether such support is natural or otherwise”, “use of explosives for blasting”, and “vibration from pile driving, or caisson work…”. CEO noted that it is unreasonable to require Consultants to obtain extensions that are intended and only available to contractors who have exposure to these particular risks. These provisions are not typically found in a Consultant’s Commercial General Liability policy, and CEO requested that they be removed.

Section 15, Sub-Section III regarding Professional Liability Insurance states that “…the Corporation shall be added as an additional Insured…”.

In this context, the Corporation (also known as Prescott Russell) would be considered a third party, and a Consultant’s professional liability policy will not cover third parties, as such CEO requested that this provision should be removed.

Section 15, Sub-Section g. of the clause includes “fines” as an item for which the Consultant must indemnify the United Counties.

A Consultant’s Professional Liability insurance will not provide insurance for broad and undefined items such as “fines”. CEO recommended that this term be removed.

Section B. General Conditions, Section 13. Representations, Warranties and Conditions creates an obligation for the Consultant’s work to “…be free of defects in workmanship and materials…”.

This requirement goes beyond a Consultant’s reasonable standard of care. The language used and the inclusion of “Warranties” in the title of the clause imply an unattainable standard of perfection for the Consultant to achieve. Further, the clause inappropriately required that the Consultant’s services must be performed in a “professional and worker like manner by personnel”. CEO noted that this statement is highly subjective and as such it is not reasonable to require Consultants be contractually obligated to such a condition. CEO recommended that Prescott Russell replace its clause with language that appropriately captured the Consultant’s Standard of Care.

Section C. Project Information and Terms of Reference, Section 6. Health and Safety contains provisions that do not apply to Consultants.

CEO supports Work Place Health and Safety however, it is our firm belief that these responsibilities should be assumed by the appropriate party as stipulated by current statute. Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act states that such responsibilities are to be assumed by the party exercising care and control over the project. It also states that no party can contract out of or contractually assume these responsibilities. CEO has proposed that the United Counties replace its current Health and Safety clause.

Section 8. Liquidated Damages/Penalties subjects Consultants to undue penalties for unreasonable damages.

CEO informed Prescott Russell that liquidated damages are an inappropriate instrument to be applied to professional services. By not linking these particular damages to a Consultant’s negligence, Consultants could be subject to undue and uninsured penalties for unreasonable damages. This clause is uninsurable, creates punitive measures for delays and was recommended to be removed.

Conclusion:

CEO encourages members to make project decisions on a case-by-case basis, having considered the merits of individual assignments. Consult with your insurance and legal counsel before accepting any questionable agreement terms; and should you experience difficulty, contact CEO and make use of our contract Rapid Response Service. CEO staff will work with you to assess the problem and where possible develop an industry position addressing your concerns that we will use to advocate on your behalf to try and achieve necessary change.

Communiqué to Members: York Region issues Addendum with Record of Engineer amendments to RFP

Jun. 12, 2019

No. 19/002 – June 11, 2019

Issue Background:

CEO is pleased to announce that York Region has made an amendment to RFP No. P-19-99- Site Coordination and Inspection Services for Highway 27 CPR Bridge Replacement and Road Widening from Martin Grove Road to Rutherford Road based on recommendations proposed by our Rapid Response Team.

On May 30, 2019 CEO brought to the Region’s attention our industry’s concerns with the Record of Engineer clause. The Region promptly responded providing an extension on the RFP’s closing date to allow for a review of the issue and our proposed solution. On June 6^th, the Region published an Addendum incorporating our proposed amendments, fully addressing CEO’s concerns. CEO appreciates the Region’s prompt action.

York Region’s Amendments:

On June 6^th, York Region’s Director, Procurement Office, Jerry Paglia informed CEO that the following clause under Section 6.3.4 would be replaced:

Record of Engineer

The Site Coordinator shall provide written and sealed confirmation that the Construction Project has been completed in accordance with the Project Plans.

CEO highlighted the following concerns with the clause:

The use of an engineer’s seal is governed by Professional Engineers Ontario under the Professional Engineers Act. CEO explained that a client request for a document to be sealed is not sufficient reason for doing so. It is the nature of the work and the nature of the document that determines whether the seal must be used.
CEO noted that even with a full-time inspector on site, it is not possible for Consultants to see every element of a Construction phase. Additionally, the language appeared to create a guarantee of services and work which is outside of the care and control of Consultants.
CEO also pointed out to the Region that the requirement, as originally worded, transferred a considerable amount of liability to Consultants and was inconsistent with the purpose of a Quality Assurance inspection. The implied guarantee would compromise a Consultant’s professional liability coverage and therefore represented an uninsurable risk.

In accordance with CEO’s recommendations, the Region replaced the language in the RFP as follows:

Record of Engineer

The Record of Engineer shall be a Professional Engineer who shall, upon completion of construction, provide written and signed confirmation that the Construction Project has been completed in general conformance with the Project Plans and approved amendments.

Municipalities like York Region that have actively worked with the industry to achieve mutually beneficial terms are catalysts for positive change in a market that is becoming increasingly challenging to navigate. CEO’s efforts to develop balanced and reasonable professional services agreements becomes most effective when working with productive actors, such as York Region. CEO and its member firms appreciate the steps taken by York Region to address our concerns and improve this RFP.

Should you have any questions or concerns regarding this communiqué or this particular RFP please contact David Zurawel, (416) 620.1400 Ext. 222 or via email [email protected] or Catherine Morrison, (416) 620.1400 Ext. 226 or via email [email protected].

Bulletin: Town of Collingwood Request for Proposal No. FIN 2019-019P

Apr. 24, 2019

No. 19/002 – April 24, 2019

Issue:

CEO is bringing to members attention the Town of Collingwood’s Request for Proposal No. FIN 2019-019P- Engineering Services to complete an Amendment to the Class Environmental Assessment for the Expansion of the R.A. Barker Water Treatment Plant. While this RFP has closed, CEO’s Rapid Response service has brought to the Town’s attention some particular issues of concern.

Background:

In its letter issued to the Town on April 10th, 2019, CEO highlighted some concern with Section 37. Injunctive and Other Relief and Section 45. Supplier Indemnity within the RFP.

In their response, Town staff informed CEO that this specific bid document is a non-binding negotiable RFP which allows for a period of negotiation prior to award of the contract. During negotiations, the highest ranked bidder can negotiate and discuss the clauses of concern.

CEO’s Position:

CEO has highlighted the following issues of concern in the identified clauses:

Section 37. Injunctive and Other Relief

It is CEO’s position that the requirement for the Consultant to abide by the Town’s ability to arbitrarily “obtain” injunctive relief without any proof of damage is unreasonable and unacceptable. CEO requested that this clause be amended to state that “…the Town is entitled to seek injunctive relief…” upon the basis of proven damage.

Section 45. Supplier Indemnity

It is CEO’s position that the broad nature of this clause creates a challenge to the professional liability insurance coverage that CEO member firms are required to carry.

The current clause includes a list of indemnified parties including “independent contractors” who, in many circumstances, may not be under the control of the Consultant. In addition, the term “or otherwise in connection with, the Contract” creates a vaguely defined liability that could include parties that are not under the Consultant’s control or responsibility. CEO recommended that the Town omits both of the aforementioned terms in order to accurately capture the parties of whom Consultants are responsible over as per their insurance policies.

The clause also required Consultants to “…indemnify and hold harmless the Indemnified Parties for any incidental, indirect, special or consequential damages…”. CEO informed the Town that damages such as these, including consequential damages, very often cannot be accurately quantified, and are disproportionate to the liability of the Consultant.

CEO proposed that the Town replace its current indemnification provisions with the clause found in the current version of the MEA/CEO Client/Engineer Agreement for Professional Consulting Services.

Conclusion:

Members who have bid on RFP No. FIN 2019-019P- Engineering Services to complete an Amendment to the Class Environmental Assessment for the Expansion of the R.A. Barker Water Treatment Plant should be aware that the Town will be open to negotiations going forward on this specific bid document. CEO encourages members to refer to the commentary above when negotiating with the Town of Collingwood and continues to advise all members to thoroughly review all RFP and contract documents for their projects, even in instances where there are multiple projects with the same client.

Communique: Municipality of Chatham-Kent amends its standard RFP document based on CEO’s recommendations

Jan. 29, 2019

No. 19/001 – January 25^th, 2019

Issue Background:

CEO is pleased to announce that the Municipality of Chatham-Kent has revised their standard Request for Proposals document based on CEO’s recommendations.

CEO, supported by its Rapid Response Team, wrote to the Municipality on November 8^th, 2018 detailing our concerns and subsequently issued an advisory to members on January 21^st, 2019. The Municipality responded to CEO on January 22^nd, 2019 advising that they have reviewed and updated their standard RFP document to incorporate our recommended amendments. CEO appreciates the Municipality’s prompt action.

The Municipality of Chatham-Kent’s Revisions:

On January 22^nd, the Municipality of Chatham-Kent’s Solicitor, David Taylor, wrote that the Municipality has removed specific CGL (Commercial General Liability) terms, revised language regarding lapsing insurance policies, and modified the previous indemnity wording in their standard RFP contract, as per CEO’s recommendations.

The Municipality updated its standard RFP document to specifically address CEO’s following concerns:

Section 6.8.1, Sub-Section b., included a detailed list of specific items for which the Municipality is requiring the Consultant to provide insurance.

Section 6.8.4 of the clause stated “The policies shall be endorsed to provide that the policy or policies will not be altered, cancelled or allowed to lapse” however, insurers will not provide notice of policies that are altered or allowed to lapse.
The obligations imposed by Section 6.9 Indemnification further compromised professional liability insurance coverage.

Municipalities such as Chatham-Kent that actively work with the industry to achieve mutually beneficial terms are catalysts for change in a market that is becoming increasingly difficult to navigate. CEO’s efforts to develop balanced and reasonable professional services agreements becomes most effective when working with productive actors, such as the Municipality of Chatham-Kent.

Should you have any questions or concerns regarding this communiqué or this particular RFP please contact David Zurawel, (416) 620.1400 Ext. 222 or via email [email protected] or Catherine Morrison, (416) 620.1400 Ext. 226 or via email [email protected].

Bulletin: Fall Economic State

Nov. 29, 2018

On Thursday November 15th, Finance Minister Vic Fedeli rose in the Legislature to deliver the Ontario PC government’s first Fall Economic Statement (FES). This highly anticipated event is second only to the provincial budget in terms of the attention paid to the Minister and the Ministry of Finance every year. The budget and the FES are the two pivotal points to providing a window into the province’s finances and how funding decisions are often made.

BULLETIN TO MEMBERS: Ontario’s new “Government for the People” takes shape - Doug Ford Sworn In as Ontario’s 26th Premier - Unveils New Cabinet

Jul. 10, 2018

Issue: Doug Ford, Ontario’s 26^th Premier, was sworn in along with his cabinet at Queen’s Park today by Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, Elizabeth Dowdeswell.

Consisting of 21 ministers, 7 women and 14 men, the Ford cabinet is 25% smaller than the 28 member executive council of Kathleen Wynne. The new cabinet reflects a good cross section of Ontario, representing urban and rural constituencies from all regions of the province.

ADVISORY: Infrastructure Ontario Real Estate Vendor of Record Renewal – RFP No. 18-013 Indemnification Terms and Conditions

May. 31, 2018

ISSUE: Consulting Engineers of Ontario (CEO) is advising members to use caution and consult with their insurance partners and legal counsel before submitting an application to Infrastructure Ontario’s (IO) Request for Proposals RFP No. 18-013: Vendor of Record (VoR) for Engineering (Civil; Mechanical; Electrical; Structural) and Technical (Environmental and Building Sciences) Services Annual Refresh.
Members need to be aware that enrollment in the VoR involves two different sets of indemnification terms and conditions. This raises problems for member’s ability to obtain adequate professional liability insurance for assignments that will come from being on this roster.

The first set of terms and conditions are part of the Master Agreement between the Agency and the “Qualified Engineer”.

Advisory: City of Hamilton Indemnification Clause

Feb. 6, 2018

Issue: Consulting Engineers of Ontario (CEO) is advising members to use caution and consult their insurance and legal counsel before submitting project proposals to the City of Hamilton, specifically with regards to their standard indemnification clause. CEO has discussed the issue of indemnification in the past through a number of meetings with procurement, risk management and legal staff at the City with some acknowledgement on their side that they would entertain some modifications to the clause.

Recently through our Rapid Response Service, we enquired about the indemnification clause for RFP No. C3-10-17 – Consultant Required for Twenty Road East and Upper Red Hill Valley Parkway Extensions Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Phases 3 and 4 – Section 37. Indemnification. We were informed by the City that they will not be amending the referenced clause. City staff indicated that “Future considerations may (City emphasis) be made at a later date to amend this clause in some way …”. CEO is notifying member firms considering submitting proposals to the City of Hamilton to ensure that they carefully review the RFP documents for this clause and to beadvised that Section 37. Indemnification is very problematic for our industry insurance providers to fully insure.

CEO Position: CEO is of the strong opinion that fair and insurable agreements attract greater and more positive interest from the consulting engineering industry and result in better project results for clients. The clause in this RFP creates four substantial problems for consultants.

1. Imposes an obligation for the consultant to defend the client.

Professional liability insurance carriers will not defend an entity other than the insured engineering firm.

2. Creates an expectation that the consultant will assume “fines”, “penalties” and other sanctions.

Consultant professional liability insurance policies serve to cover compensatory damages arising from the consultant’s negligence; this does not include fines, penalties and fees etc.

3. Demands that “damages (including indirect, special, remote, and/or consequential damages)” be assumed by the consultant.

This is not reasonable as such damages cannot be accurately quantified and are often disproportionate to the liability of the consultant, if they are at all attributable. Due to these factors professional liability insurance coverage may not apply.

4. Requires coverage for questionable parties, namely “affiliates”, a term more appropriately applied to commercial entities, and “representatives”, an undefined term.

It is CEO’s position that for a consultant to be held accountable under any agreement, sound negligence-based criteria must exist. Our members’ professional liability policies exclude claims arising out of liability assumed under contract unless the liability would have existed in the absence of the contract, e.g. negligence. Acceptance of liability beyond that required by law is the acceptance of liability beyond that for which members are insured.

We remind members that our recommended industry standard indemnification clause, as developed with MEA, can be found in the current version of the MEA/CEO/Client/Engineer Agreement for Professional Consulting Services, 2017 that is located on our website here.

Advisory: Norfolk County RFP No. PW-E-17-78 – Inter-Urban Water Supply – Section 4.3 Indemnity

Jan. 22, 2018

ISSUE: Consulting Engineers of Ontario (CEO) is advising members to use caution and consult their insurance and legal counsel before submitting project proposals to Norfolk County. Despite making efforts to engage county officials to amend the indemnity clause in the above referenced RFP, staff have issued CEO a blunt refusal. Member firms considering submitting responses to the County’s call for proposals for RFP No. PW-E-17-78 are advised that Section 4.3 - Indemnity is uninsurable through our industry’s insurance providers.

CEO POSITION: CEO strongly believes that having fair, insurable agreements attracts more positive interest from the consulting engineering industry and leads to better project outcomes for clients. The clause in this RFP creates three significant problems for our members.

The clause: 1. Imposes an obligation for the consultant to provide coverage for questionable parties, namely “…agents and other representatives…”. As these are undefined terms, such individuals are not subject to any sort of indemnification by the engineering firm’s insurance.

2. Creates an obligation for the consultant to assume costs including “expenses (including legal, expert and consultants fees…” and other sanctions. Members’ professional liability insurance policies serve only to cover compensatory damages arising from the consultant’s negligence; this does not include fines, penalties and fees etc.

3. Requires that the consultant assume “demands … in any way based upon, occasioned by or attributable to anything done or omitted to be done by the Proponent, … or otherwise in connection with, the Contract. The Proponent further agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Indemnified Parties for any incidental, indirect, special or consequential damages, or any loss of use, revenue or profit, by any person, entity or organization, including, without limitation, Norfolk County, claimed or resulting from such Claims. The obligations contained in this paragraph shall survive the termination or expiry of the Contract”. Such obligations are not reasonable as they are overly broad, not limited to negligence and expressly include consequential damages. Such damages cannot be accurately quantified and are often disproportionate to the liability of the consultant, if they are at all attributable. Due to these factors, our members’ professional liability insurance coverage would not apply.

Click here to read more.

Bulletin: Ontario Fair Workplaces, Better Jobs Act Update

Nov. 28, 2017

Bill 148, the Fair Workplaces, Better Jobs Act, 2017, passed Third Reading in the Ontario Legislature on Wednesday, November 22, 2017. The legislation introduces significant amendments to Ontario’s Employment Standards Acts and Labour Relations Act, and limited amendments to the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Most of the amendments come into force on January 1, 2018.

When Bill 148 was first introduced in June 2017, Sherrard Kuzz LLP prepared a comprehensive Executive Summary including an analysis of the practical implications for Ontario workplaces, used as a resource by industry associations and employer advocacy groups such as CEO and its member firms.

Sherrard Kuzz LLP is now in the process of updating the Executive Summary. In the interim, this briefing note summarizes all of the key amendments to the Employment Standards Act, Labour Relations Act and Occupational Health and Safety Act. You can download the briefing note, here.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact David Zurawel, CEO’s Director of Government and Stakeholder Relations at 416-620-1400 ext 222 or [email protected].

Bulletin: Important MEA - CEO Standard Agreement Insurance Language Update

Nov. 14, 2017

CEO is informing members that on the advice of our insurance and contract specialist partners some language in the current 2017 version of the MEA/CEO Client/Engineer Agreement for Professional Consulting Services needs to be changed.

Please make sure that in your project agreements that the language in the introductory paragraph of Section 1.11 Insurance (Page 6 of 19) reads as follows:

“The Client will accept the insurance coverage amount specified in this clause section (a) OR (b), or whichever is applicable to the claim or as specified in the RFP as the aggregate limit of liability of the Engineer for Clients damages.”

To ensure appropriate insurance coverage, be sure to attach supplementary conditions to your agreement reflecting this modified language.

CEO is working with MEA to update the standard agreement to reflect this necessary change as soon as possible.

Should you have any questions about this please do not hesitate to contact David Zurawel at [email protected] or 416-620-1400 ext. 222.

Bulletin: CEO’s rapid response service model to deal with problematic contracts and procurement practices

Jun. 26, 2017

CEO’s Business Risk Committee has established a Rapid Response Subcommittee to provide a rapid response service for Members encountering problematic client contracts and procurement practices. The subcommittee and its mandate of challenging and correcting problematic client terms and conditions are a key pillar of the association’s strategic plan.

To achieve the objectives laid out in CEO’s strategic plan, the Rapid Response Subcommittee provides analysis and advice on procurement issues through a new quick response service model.

The service model is driven by subcommittee volunteers and sets out to achieve solutions that are mutually beneficial to our Members and their Clients in efficient and timely manner.

CEO is completing its analysis of this new service model, which evaluates all associated tasks and activities. During the beta test period, CEO focused on the management and provision of services required to achieve their quick response times.

CEO has achieved success having reached mutually beneficial RFP amendments; our initial evaluation finds that CEO will be working to continue to improve our system of gathering information for analytical, administrative and informing Members of industry contractual issues.

By conducting a thorough assessment of the issues or risks identified during beta testing, CEO is convinced that we have a viable process. We will work collaboratively with Members to ensure the Rapid Response Subcommittee and its processes serve to address the most important issues confronting Member’s businesses today.

For inquiries about the Rapid Response Service Model, please contact David Zurawel at (416) 620-1400 Ext.222 | [email protected]

Bulletin: AG’s new Construction Act to amend Construction Lien Act, address prompt payment, introduce dispute resolution regime

Jun. 12, 2017

Issue:

Ontario Attorney General, Yasir Naqvi, has introduced Bill 142, An Act to amend the Construction Lien Act, better known as the Construction Act. The bill, if passed in to law, will modernize the Construction Lien Act, address the need for promptness of payment, and introduce an adjudication-based dispute resolution system for Ontario’s construction sector.

Background:

The product of a 2-year, comprehensive independent public consultation process, the draft Act is informed by the report “Striking the Balance” authored by Bruce Reynolds and Sharon Vogel. Making 101 recommendations to the province, the report was the product of advice from more than 60 stakeholder groups, presenting more than 90 specific issues over the course of 30 consultation meetings. Ministry of the Attorney General officials have adopted the vast majority of the recommendations as a package for change, omitting just three.

Consulting Engineers of Ontario has played an active role in the independent review and development of this draft bill and is pleased all of its issues have been represented in the draft legislation, namely:

Requiring the mandatory release of holdback monies
Extending the lien rights period to 60 days from 45
Enabling the partial release of holdback funds through phased projects, and
The use of letters of credit as acceptable financial instruments with which to hold holdback funds

Conclusion:

This legislation proposes to make extensive changes to Ontario’s construction sector, impacting both public and private projects. The federal government and other provinces are closely watching Ontario. What gets passed into law here will most certainly influence these other jurisdictions.

In the near future, CEO will be providing an analysis of the draft bill and how it will impact members. The Ministry of the Attorney General is preparing a consolidated version of the draft legislation that will highlight all of the changes made to the existing Construction Lien Act. In the meantime, Bill 142 is important reading for anyone practicing in the construction sector. A pdf copy of the bill is available here.

The provincial legislature has risen the summer recess therefore, action on the bill will not begin until MPPs return for the fall legislative session on September 11, 2017.

Should you have any questions about the draft bill or the proposed changes you can contact David Zurawel at 416-620-1400 ext. 222 or [email protected]

Bulletin: Ontario introduces Fair Workplaces, Better Jobs Act, 2017

Jun. 12, 2017

Ontario has introduced legislation that will fundamentally reform the province’s existing Employment Standards Act, 2000 (ESA) and Labour Relations Act, 1995 (LRA).

The proposed legislation, Bill 148, Fair Workplaces, Better Jobs Act, 2017, contains broad ranging recommendations from the 419-page Changing Workplaces Review Final Report published in May 2017.

The Changing Workplaces Review, initiated by Labour Minister Kevin Flynn in 2015, is the most significant review of the ESA and LRA the Government of Ontario has undertaken in decades. During the review process, two phases of consultation took place to provide the general public and stakeholders with the opportunity to comment on how the LRA and ESA could be amended to better address today’s workplace issues.

The final Report contains 173 recommendations including raising the minimum wage, ensuring part-time workers are paid the same hourly wage as full-time workers, introducing paid sick days for every worker and including members of the architectural and land surveying profession in the LRA.

Fair Workplaces, Better Jobs Act, 2017 was introduced and referred to the Standing Committee on Finance Economic Affairs on June 1.

Sherrard Kuzz LLP, one of Canada’s leading employment and labour law firms, is reviewing the legislation and its recommendations and will be developing an analysis.

Meanwhile, if you have any questions or concerns, please contact David Zurawel, CEO’s Director of Government and Stakeholder Relations at 416-620-1400 ext 222 or [email protected].

The full Changing Workplaces Review Report is available here. The pdf copy of the bill is available here.

For more information on the amendments proposed in Fair Workplaces, Better Jobs Act, 2017, click here to download the backgrounder.

Communique: The Regional Municipality of York issues Addendum for RFP P-17-69 in response to CEO’s Letter

Jun. 5, 2017

Issue:

The Regional Municipality of York issued RFP P-17-69 on May 18, 2017 for Consulting Services for the inspection and appraisal of Bridges, large Culverts, Structural retaining walls, and large Overhead sign supports owned by the Regional Municipality of York.

Under the provision of the Region of York’s agreement, the Consultant is responsible to the owner for delay and/or under-performance of the Project.

The Liquidated Damages clause (Schedule B, VII), presents problems for member firms obtaining professional liability insurance coverage members’ firms.When liquidated damages clause is not related to negligence in the performance of professional services (not meeting the standard of care), this becomes non-insurable because professional liability insurance policies only provide coverage for damages caused by the negligence of the insured Consultant. Most professional liability policies specifically exclude coverage for liquidated damages.

If the clause is not modified to address negligence-based performance (not meeting the standard of care), this clause is non-insurable. Professional liability insurance policies only provide coverage for damages caused by the negligence of the insured Consultant. Most professional liability policies specifically exclude coverage for liquidated damages.

CEO’s position:

1. The Courts have consistently held that a liquidated damages provision cannot be used to impose a penalty; therefore, if the amount set for liquidated damages is a penalty imposed for breach of contract, or a coercive measure for deterring a potential breach, liquidated damages may not be enforceable. For the liquidated damages provision to be enforceable, it must provide some clear or readily ascertainable amount accruing because of a breach of contract.

2. Also, damages must be exclusive. If the contract provides the Owner with an alternate way to measure or seek damages, the liquidated damages may not be enforceable.

Schedule F Contract Terms and Conditions, 9.1 Damages and Section 12 – Right to Set-Off and Holdbacks, both include provisions for the Region to remedy delayed services; therefore, Schedule B VII. Liquidated Damages would be nonexclusive.

The Regional Municipality of York’s Addendum:

On May 30th, CEO issued a formal letter to The Regional Municipality of York on behalf of our Members, regarding RFP P-17-69 Consulting Services for the inspection and appraisal, in particular, the Liquidated Damages clause.

On June 1st, 2017, the Region of York responded to CEO’s communication detailing the fact the addendum had been issued, removing the LD clause as requested.

This RFP is set to close on June 8th, 2017.

Should you have any questions or concerns regarding this communique or this particular RFP please contact Chaslene Pilgrim, (416) 620.1400 Ext. 226 or via email [email protected]

Click here to download in the PDF format.

Bulletin: Infrastructure Ontario Renewal of Real Estate Vendor of Record System

May. 17, 2017

Infrastructure Ontario’s (IO) Real Estate Division has issued a renewal of its Vendor of Record (VOR) for engineering and technical services.

The system will create a new pre-qualified list of firms that will be eligible to provide services to the agency and its project management service providers (PMSPs). Firms interested in qualifying for the VOR have the opportunity to submit a request for proposal via Biddingo until June 8, 2017. Those firms selected to be on the VOR list will be eligible to be invited to submit responses to agency bid call documents for specific assignments. All firms currently on the agency’s VOR must apply to be included on the VOR list.

The agency will be extending its current VOR Master Agreement terms and conditions beyond the July 1, 2017 expiration date. This is being done to provide an opportunity to evaluate terms and conditions of the new Master Agreement. Consulting Engineers of Ontario (CEO) has been assured by agency staff that the terms and conditions of the Master Agreement will be made available for its review and feedback. The agency has also assured CEO that earlier concerns over language contained in the current Master Agreement empowering it to summarily terminate contracts with vendors on the suspicion of fraudulent practices have been properly addressed.

Click here to read the details of the Renewed VOR.

Bulletin: Ontario’s balanced budget increases infrastructure investments $5.9 billion year-over-year: Long-term pledges now total $190 billion over 13 years

Apr. 28, 2017

Finance Minister Charles Sousa delivered Ontario’s first balanced budget since 2008. The fiscal plan entitled, “A Stronger, Healthier Ontario” details an ambitious strategy for social investment going forward. Proclaiming that “together we have built up Ontario to compete and succeed in the global economy …” the Finance Minister stated that “now we believe it is time to consider what comes next”. The key pillars of the budget are health care, education, supporting families and creating opporitunities and infrastructure.

“Balancing this year’s budget is a much anticipated and significant achievement for Ontario”, said Barry Steinberg, Chief Executive Officer of Consulting Engineers of Ontario. “Planning core investments without the burden of a deficit should substantially improve the government’s ability to deliver on its commitments”. This budget builds on the government’s commitments to the people of Ontario,” Steinberg remarked.

The proposed budget pledges to expand Ontario’s investments in infrastructure by $30 billion to $190 billion over 13 years, starting in 2014-15 and represents a $5.966 billion increase over last year. Emphasis focuses on four key prioirities: public transit ($56 billion); highways and transportation ($26 billion); grants to hospitals (approx. $20 billion); and, education (approx. $16 billion). Also central to infrastructure are continued commitments to municipalities through increased gas tax funding, the Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund, Connecting Links program and the Trillium Trust. “CEO has consistently been a strong supporter of separate, dedicated funds for infrastructure investment. They are the most effective tools for providing value to taxpayers”, said Steinberg. “The province’s continued commitment to ensure the full funding of the Trillium Trust is important. It is an imperative tool for eliminating Ontario's core infrastructure deficit. However, the government needs to provide more detail on how the Trust works. I don’t think anyone in our industry really knows how it factors in to proper project planning, prioritization and execution”, remarked Steinberg.

Today’s budget does not include any new taxes. The total government spend for the coming year is projected to be $141.1billion, including 11.6 billion in interest charges on the provincial net debt which now totals almost $302 billion, representing 37.8% of GDP.

Bulletin: Construction Lien Act Review Updates

Apr. 3, 2017

Consulting Engineers of Ontario is pleased to report that all member issues it submitted to the expert review of the Act will be included in the reform legislation, expected to be tabled with the legislature late this spring.

The expert report of the review included 100 recommendations to modernize the lien and holdback process, introduce a prompt payment system and create an adjudicative dispute resolution process. In reviewing this feedback, the Attorney General has stated that the government’s reform legislation will address all of the review reports recommendations except for those proposing: a pilot project for trust accounts in the public sector; providing for a single property identifier number for common elements of condominiums; and, removing the provision that permits liens to expire on a lot-by-lot basis.

CEO is continuing to communicate with the Attorney General and his staff. Work continues to develop the finer details of the prompt payment system, including the definition of what constitutes a “proper invoice”, the trigger to start the payment clock. Also important is the ongoing discussion of freedom of contract, given that this is something consultants to not currently have.

CEO is preparing for a busy summer dealing with this issue as extensive public consultations are expected on the bill. We will keep you up-to-date with details as they become available.

Bulletin: Province expected to finalize updated asset management regulation

Apr. 3, 2017

CEO is expecting the government to soon finalize the update to its asset management regulation. To qualify for provincial funding for public infrastructure projects municipalities must have submitted an asset management plan with the Ministries of Infrastructure and Municipal Affairs.

CEO, as part of a small group of sector stakeholders, has been working with the province for more than a year to help guide the update of the regulation. Having already held one round of public consultations, advice has been gathered on how to improve the plans by requiring a standard format and more uniform data collection and reporting.

More information on this issue will be provided as it becomes available.

MEA-CEO Standard Client/Engineer Agreement for Professional Consulting Services

Mar. 17, 2016

Consulting Engineers of Ontario (CEO) and Municipal Engineers Association (MEA) announced the finalization of a Standard Client/Engineer Agreement for Professional Consulting Services. The standard agreement aims at helping Ontario’s 444 municipalities practice a fair procurement process by outlining equitable, consistent terms and conditions for both clients and consulting engineers.

“The standard agreement is built on the principles of partnership and fairness. It symbolizes a collaborative approach to creating a favourable business environment for both clients and consulting engineers,” said Barry Steinberg, P.Eng, Chief Executive Officer of Consulting Engineers of Ontario.

The consulting engineering sector is one of few professional service providers that allow clients to prescribe the terms and conditions under which they offer their services. In response, the two associations have been working closely together to review and update the 2006 version of the MEA/CEO Agreement for Engineering Services so that municipalities can use a contract that is up-to-date with the present business landscape.

“This standard agreement will enable municipalities to be more efficient in doing business with consulting engineers. The template will allow smaller municipalities particularly to save on the significant time and cost spent on creating a contract,” said Reg Russwurm P.Eng, President of the Municipal Engineers Association.

“It has been a lengthy, complex process but also a very rewarding one,” said Geoff Pound, P.Eng, Chair of CEO’s Municipal Engineers Association Liaison Committee. “The revised standard agreement is now in line with current municipal engineering business practices. This will be a benefit to both municipalities and the consulting engineering industry.”

Download: 2016 MEA-CEO Standard Client/Engineer Agreement for Professional Consulting Services

CEO Welcomes Passage of Long-Term Infrastructure Legislation

Jun. 4, 2015

Consulting Engineers of Ontario applauds this afternoon’s passage of Bill 6, the Infrastructure for Jobs and Prosperity Act.

“We have been working with government on this legislation for quite some time and we are pleased to see it pass the legislature,” said Barry Steinberg, Chief Executive Officer of Consulting Engineers of Ontario.

Today’s passage of the legislation sees Ontario join Québec as the only other provincial jurisdiction requiring its government to have a long-term infrastructure plan. The province will have three years to table its first plan from the date the legislation receives royal assent, and then must renew the plan at least once every five years.

The government intends to use its new strategic plan to align its infrastructure investments with its economic development and job creation priorities, while emphasizing design and planning. “Professional Engineers play an integral role in bringing the government’s infrastructure plans to life, we are very pleased this legislation recognizes our public duty,” Steinberg remarked. “The draft Bill was of great concern to us; it made no mention of the role of engineers while prescribing a specific role for architects,” said Steinberg. “Given the stipulations of the Professional Engineers Act, this had to change; the legislation had to maintain balance. We are happy with the solution we developed with Minister Duguid’s staff and officials.”

Also heavily emphasized in the Bill is the role of asset management plans. “CEO has consistently supported infrastructure investment as a result of sound planning. By requiring these plans and mandating they be consistent in their form, content and timing, government will be able to make sound, and accurate decisions to prioritize projects and manage their full lifecycle cost. This is what is necessary to provide innovation, value and public safety for Ontarians,” said Steinberg.

Click here to download Bill 6, the Infrastructure for Jobs and Prosperity Act.

Wynne Government's budget emphasizes transit and transportation infrastructure

Apr. 22, 2015

Finance Minister Charles Sousa this afternoon delivered the Wynne government’s economic blueprint for Ontario. With a 10-year, $130 billion infrastructure commitment, the “Building Ontario Up” budget makes transit and transportation infrastructure a key element determining Ontario’s future economic success. Also playing an important role in the government’s four part plan are: investing in people’s talents and skills; creating a dynamic and innovative environment for business; and, building a secure retirement system.

“Where last year’s budget focused on investment commitments today’s plan is all about implementing of those commitments,” said Barry Steinberg, Chief Executive Officer of Consulting Engineers of Ontario. “Our communities are being stifled by the lack of quality core infrastructure,” Steinberg said. “We have gridlock on our roads and highways, our transit systems don’t have the capacity to serve as an alternative to promote mobility, and our water and wastewater systems are suffering the neglect of deferred maintenance. There is an urgent need for today’s announced commitments, especially the Moving Ontario Forward investment of $31.5 billion over the next 10 years,” said Steinberg.

Recommendations from the Premier's Advisory Council on Government Assets are providing an additional $2.6 billion to the Moving Ontario Fund over the next 10 years for a total of $31.5 billion. “What is most important about this investment is its allocation to the Trillium Trust,” said Steinberg. “Separate, dedicated funds for infrastructure investment are the most effective tools for providing value to taxpayers as they provide government a secure means to eliminate Ontario's core infrastructure deficit.”

Today’s budget details a total government spend for the coming year of $131.9 billion, leaving a deficit of $8.5 billion. The government is maintaining its pledge to bring its finances back to balance by 2018. Ontario’s total accumulated debt will reach $298.9 billion next year.

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Issue: Doug Ford, Ontario’s 26^th Premier, was sworn in along with his cabinet at Queen’s Park today by Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, Elizabeth Dowdeswell.