Building a More Inclusive & Connected Council Chamber

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For over 35 years, Pickering’s Council Chamber has been more than just a meeting space - it has been a cornerstone of our community. It’s where couples have said “I do,” embarking on their journey of love and commitment, where Members of Council set the course for our city’s future, and where residents gather to engage in local government, ensuring their voices shape the path forward.

As with any significant public space, time brings change. To continue serving our community effectively, this space requires updates that prioritize safety, accessibility, and functionality. Responsible planning means maintaining and modernizing aging infrastructure before it becomes outdated or ineffective.

We invite residents to learn more about the proposed upgrades and share their feedback on the concept design.

Key Benefits of the Renovation

  • Accessibility upgrades: A newly designed seating layout will ensure inclusivity, meeting Ontario’s accessibility standards and providing a welcoming environment for all residents.
  • Modernized Audio-Visual (AV) Technology: Enhanced technology will improve both in-person and virtual meeting experiences, allowing for greater public engagement and transparency.
  • Lighting, Privacy, and Security Enhancements: Upgrades will create a safer, more functional space for Council, staff, and the public.

Why Now? A Responsible and Necessary Investment

We recognize that financial stewardship is a priority, especially during challenging times. However, investing in critical infrastructure is not about luxury - it’s about responsibility. Deferring necessary upgrades could lead to higher costs in the future, while also limiting the ability of our Council Chambers to serve the public effectively. This renovation ensures that we maintain a space that meets the evolving needs of our growing and diverse community.

View a summary of the proposed renovations here.

Interior side view - conceptual rendering only.

Community Feedback

The Council Chamber is more than just a meeting space - it is the heart of our local democracy. This renovation is an investment in transparency, collaboration, and inclusivity, ensuring that our city remains a leader in good governance.

We invite you to learn more about the project and share your feedback. Together, we can ensure that this space continues to serve Pickering residents for generations to come. The City's Accessibility Advisory Committee has already reviewed the project on November 20, 2024, and January 15, 2025. We’re committed to ensuring these upgrades reflect the needs of all residents.

Project Timeline

  • June 2024: Design contract awarded (Report OPS 15-24, Council Resolution #548/24).
  • November 2024: Council endorses schematic design concepts.
  • February 2025: Community education and feedback opportunities.
  • March 2025: Final design concepts refined, incorporating community and stakeholder feedback.
  • Summer 2025 – Spring 2026: Construction activities.
  • Summer 2026: Council Chamber renovations completed.

Council and Committee Meetings

Meetings continue while renovations are in progress. All in-person meetings have transitioned to a virtual format, in accordance with Section 09.04 of the City's Procedure By-law.

The public may observe meeting proceedings by watching the livestream, and a recording of the meeting will be made available following the meeting.

Do you wish to speak before a Standing Committee or Council? Learn how to register as a delegation and more!

For over 35 years, Pickering’s Council Chamber has been more than just a meeting space - it has been a cornerstone of our community. It’s where couples have said “I do,” embarking on their journey of love and commitment, where Members of Council set the course for our city’s future, and where residents gather to engage in local government, ensuring their voices shape the path forward.

As with any significant public space, time brings change. To continue serving our community effectively, this space requires updates that prioritize safety, accessibility, and functionality. Responsible planning means maintaining and modernizing aging infrastructure before it becomes outdated or ineffective.

We invite residents to learn more about the proposed upgrades and share their feedback on the concept design.

Key Benefits of the Renovation

  • Accessibility upgrades: A newly designed seating layout will ensure inclusivity, meeting Ontario’s accessibility standards and providing a welcoming environment for all residents.
  • Modernized Audio-Visual (AV) Technology: Enhanced technology will improve both in-person and virtual meeting experiences, allowing for greater public engagement and transparency.
  • Lighting, Privacy, and Security Enhancements: Upgrades will create a safer, more functional space for Council, staff, and the public.

Why Now? A Responsible and Necessary Investment

We recognize that financial stewardship is a priority, especially during challenging times. However, investing in critical infrastructure is not about luxury - it’s about responsibility. Deferring necessary upgrades could lead to higher costs in the future, while also limiting the ability of our Council Chambers to serve the public effectively. This renovation ensures that we maintain a space that meets the evolving needs of our growing and diverse community.

View a summary of the proposed renovations here.

Interior side view - conceptual rendering only.

Community Feedback

The Council Chamber is more than just a meeting space - it is the heart of our local democracy. This renovation is an investment in transparency, collaboration, and inclusivity, ensuring that our city remains a leader in good governance.

We invite you to learn more about the project and share your feedback. Together, we can ensure that this space continues to serve Pickering residents for generations to come. The City's Accessibility Advisory Committee has already reviewed the project on November 20, 2024, and January 15, 2025. We’re committed to ensuring these upgrades reflect the needs of all residents.

Project Timeline

  • June 2024: Design contract awarded (Report OPS 15-24, Council Resolution #548/24).
  • November 2024: Council endorses schematic design concepts.
  • February 2025: Community education and feedback opportunities.
  • March 2025: Final design concepts refined, incorporating community and stakeholder feedback.
  • Summer 2025 – Spring 2026: Construction activities.
  • Summer 2026: Council Chamber renovations completed.

Council and Committee Meetings

Meetings continue while renovations are in progress. All in-person meetings have transitioned to a virtual format, in accordance with Section 09.04 of the City's Procedure By-law.

The public may observe meeting proceedings by watching the livestream, and a recording of the meeting will be made available following the meeting.

Do you wish to speak before a Standing Committee or Council? Learn how to register as a delegation and more!

Page last updated: 10 Feb 2025, 12:37 PM