Extension of High Park Trackless Train Contract
(High Park - Ward 19)
The Economic Development Committee recommends the adoption of the following report (March 11, 1999) from the
Commissioner of Economic Development, Culture and Tourism:
Purpose:
To ensure unbroken delivery of concession services to this park pending a more comprehensive
City-wide review of concession services.
Source of Funds:
None.
Financial Impact:
No financial impact.
Recommendations:
(1)that the current agreement between the City and Carla Construction and Maintenance Ltd. to operate the Trackless
Train Concession in High Park be extended for one year; and
(2)that the operation of the Trackless Train continue subject to the same conditions and terms as set out in this report in
the form acceptable to the City Solicitor and the Commissioner of Corporate Services.
Background:
On July 2, 1996 City Council of the former City of Toronto adopted Clause No. 11 of Executive Committee Report No. 17,
entitled "Tenders - Letting of the Right to Operate a Trackless Train Concession in High Park". The approval granted the
proposal submitted by Mr. G. C. Jain, President of Carla Construction and Maintenance Ltd. ("Carla Construction") be
accepted, granting Mr. Jain an extension from a five year term to a seven year term (from May 15, 1992 to October 31st,
1998). This extension was granted to Mr. Jain's request, in order that he could meet the Trackless Train modification
requirements (including installation of a scrubber for the exhaust system, rain curtains, a p.a. system and wheelchair
accessibility to the train, at a cost to Mr. Jain estimated at $10,000 per train), and recover the expenditures involved. Mr.
Jain also agreed to a rate schedule (not to increase rates by more than $0.50 in any calendar year), which also includes one
stop over privilege for the riders.
Given the scope of the modifications noted above, Mr. Jain was not required to pay annual rent nor a percentage of his
gross sales to the City. He is responsible, however, for the maintenance and repair of the trains (which he owns) as well as
the repair and maintenance of the service building, located adjacent to the High Park Greenhouse, where the trains are
stored and repaired during each operating season. Mr. Jain must also pay all utility charges (including all gas, water,
telephone and hydro-electric rates) as well as all realty and business taxes charged on the concession operation or the lands
on which the service building is located. Mr. Jain is requesting an extension for the upcoming 1999 season, subject to the
same terms and conditions.
Comments:
The contract has now expired and does not explicitly provide for an extension. Mr. Jain is proposing to operate the
Trackless Train operation for the upcoming 1999 season. Carla Construction and Maintenance Ltd. has been successfully
operating the Trackless Trains in High Park for many years and has provided an excellent means of transportation and
recreation for park patrons. The Department is supportive of this extension and the service being provided should continue
without interruption at this site.
Further, the Department is initiating an extensive review of concessions under the jurisdiction across the new City. This
review will examine both internally provided concessions and contracted concessions. Further, comprehensive,
standardized by-laws relating to concessions and other goods and services agreements need to be established.
Carla Construction and Maintenance Ltd. has provided a unique and enjoyable experience in operating the Trackless Train
to people visiting High Park, and given the time line for the full harmonization of concession revenues, staff believe that
the extension of this particular contract is appropriate.
Contact Name:
Mario Zanetti
Director of Parks and Recreation
South District
Tel. No. 392-7252
