Bhavik Parikh and Rajiv Suri, Directors, OVBI Canada, provided information to Committee regarding International Yoga Day, and requested the City's support to waive the rental fees associated with hosting a yoga event at Ken Whillans Square on June 23, 2024.
Committee discussion took place with respect to previous support for this event, and the possibility of waiving the rental fees and providing promotional assistance.
It was noted that, in accordance with the Procedure By-law, a two-thirds majority vote would be required to consider the delegation's request to waive the rental fees associated with the subject yoga event.
The motion was considered as follows, with the required two-thirds majority vote achieved.
That the delegation from Bhavik Parikh and Rajiv Suri, Directors, OVBI Canada, to the Committee of Council Meeting of June 19, 2024, re: Request to Waive Rental Fees for a Yoga Event on June 23, 2024 at Ken Whillans Square, be received; and
Whereas, the Art of Living Foundation and OVBI Canada, both renowned non-profit organizations dedicated to promoting health, wellbeing, and spiritual growth, has submitted a request to delegate to City Council for waiver of rental fees for their upcoming yoga event; and
Whereas, the waiver of fees for this event would not only alleviate the financial burden on the Art of Living Foundation and OVBI Canada, but would also demonstrate the City Council's recognition and support of the organization's efforts to promote health, wellness, and community engagement;
Therefore Be It Resolved, that the City Council hereby grants the OVBI Canada and Art of Living Foundation's request for delegation and waiver of fees for their upcoming yoga event, in recognition of the organization's longstanding commitment to enhancing the quality of life for residents and their substantial contribution to the cultural and social fabric of the community.
Immediately following the vote, the motion was clarified to include direction that corporate communications be undertaken for this event, and a revote was taken.
The motion carried, as follows, with a two-thirds majority vote achieved.