Report to: General Committee Report Date: April 6, 2009

SUBJECT: Markham EcoFest

PREPARED BY: Mavis Urquhart, Manager, Environmental Leadership

RECOMMENDATION:

That sales be permitted at the Markham EcoFest being held by Youth Environmental Network of York Region on the day of April 17, 2009.

That Staff be authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to this resolution.

1. Purpose 2. Background 3. Discussion 4. Financial 5. Others (Strategic, Affected Units) 6. Attachment(s)

PURPOSE:

The purpose of this report is to recommend that an exception be made to the Civic Centre Public Spaces Policy to allow sales at the Ecofest being held by the Youth Environmental Network of York Region.

BACKGROUND:

In December 2004, a Civic Centre Public Spaces Policy was approved. Under Fund/raising/Petitions, it indicates that “Displays are not to be used for fund-raising or to collect signatures on petitions”.

The Youth Environmental Network of York Region received funding from the Markham Environmental Sustainability Fund to hold an EcoFest at the Civic Centre on April 22, 2009, to promote the environment with youths. Last year this group held a similar and very successful environmental conference for youth at the Town of Markham. A one day exemption to the policy is required to permit sale and promotion of various environmental products such as organic clothing, etc.

OPTIONS/ DISCUSSION:

Not applicable.

FINANCIAL TEMPLATE

Not applicable.

ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PRIORITIES:

Not applicable

DEPARTMENTS CONSULTED AND AFFECTED:

Communications Department

RECOMMENDED

BY: _____________________ ________________________

Mavis Urquhart, Brenda Librecz,

Manager, Environmental Commissioner, Community Leadership and Fire Services