ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE Meeting Minutes
Date: Tuesday January 8th, 2008 Council Chambers, Township of Muskoka Lakes Municipal Offices
Committee Members Present: Chair Mary Grady, Susan Pryke, Stewart Martin, Jane Templeton, Heather Fraser, and Rob Farlie.
Regrets: David Margesson
Also Present: Jenna Marchildon, Walt Schmid, Dianne Davidson, Suresh Singh, Steve Fahner, Madeline Fielding, Pat Sinclair, Pam McDivitt, Gary McDivitt, Linda Voison, Butch Voison, Leslie Commandant, and other community members.
1. Call to Order Chair Mary Grady called the meeting to order at 1:04 p.m.
2. Adoption of Agenda Moved by: Susan Pryke Seconded by: Rob Farlie That the agenda for Tuesday January 8, 2008 be adopted.
Carried.
3. Adoption of Minutes Moved by: Susan Pryke Seconded by: Jane Templeton That the minutes from Monday December 10th, 2007 be adopted.
Carried.
4. Presentations a. Suresh Singh
Mr. Singh discussed his personal history in the staff accommodation business, as well as the needs of staff rental accommodation in general. Specifically in the Township of Muskoka Lakes they have started construction on a rental project in Port Carling and are hoping to begin construction in Bala soon. Although many employers in the Township rent out houses for their staff to use as accommodation, Mr. Singh stated that the majority of these properties are much below comfortable living conditions. He feels that
Economic Development Committee Page 1 of 3 Meeting Minutes 01-08-08 one should take pride in their living quarters. This is what Mr. Singh’s company is trying to do in the Township. The company’s key target market for tenants is a year-round employee looking for accommodation on a long-term basis. The considered tenants are put through a complete interview process and chosen carefully according to the company’s rule, regulations and policies. The rules are very strict and if not followed will be dealt with in 24 hours or less. This includes removing any tenant if necessary. The money spent on the projects is much more than needed to ensure safety to all tenants at all times. The buildings are built at much higher standards than the Building Code requires. Employers within the municipality will subsidize rental spaces for their employees.
b. Jenna Marchildon – BizPal
Jenna demonstrated BizPal from the Township of Muskoka Lakes website. To find BizPal, please go to www.muskokalakes.ca, click on “Our Community” and then click on BizPal. Walt Schmid also noted that he would like a BizPal presentation presented to Council in the near future. The Committee agreed that an economic development accomplishment such as BizPal should be rewarded with some media attention. Mayor Pryke has agreed to compose a press release for this accomplishment. There will also be a “news” article on the website.
c. Jenna Marchildon – Final FedNor Reports
Jenna reviewed her final internship report to FedNor with the committee. It was suggested that the report should go to Management & Services Committee as well as Council to ensure that the appropriate personnel are aware of the work that Jenna has completed in the last year. Chair Grady also noted that due to Jenna’s involvement with BizPal that it should be added to her accomplishments in her final internship report.
d. Jenna Marchildon – Visitor Information Centre
Jenna reviewed her report and recommendations for future years at the Visitor Information Centre. e. Steve Fahner – Official Plan Review & Zoning By-Law Review
Steve reviewed the goals that were relevant to the Official Plan Review and the Zoning By-Law. Steve noted that many if not most of the goals that are part of the Economic Development Strategy are already being looked at and very achievable. Steve noted that there were a few goals that are in need of District of Muskoka support and action and that the committee should be lobbying the District to ensure they are aware of the importance of these issues for the Township of Muskoka Lakes.
5. New and Unfinished Business a. Draft #4 Economic Development Strategy
Economic Development Committee Page 2 of 3 Meeting Minutes 01-08-08 The committee reviewed the Economic Development Strategy and it was decided that Goal # 10 should be reviewed and budgeted for each year. Goal #3 was also discussed and was determined that the situation needs to be dealt with and that the Township should get involved. It was decided that Goals 14 & 15 should be directed to the Parks and Recreation Committee. The Economic Development Committee decided they would present the Economic Development Strategy to Council during the month of February.
Walt Schmid also noted a new business item; regarding the 2010 Ontario Winter Games and that a decision for involvement and bidding would have to be made very soon as the bids are due by mid February. The report will be presented to the Management and Services Committee on January 23, 2008.
6. Future Meeting Schedule
Wednesday January 30th, 2008 at 1:00 p.m. in Council Chambers, of the Municipal Offices in Port Carling, Ontario.
7. Adjournment
Moved by: Rob Farlie Seconded by: Jane Templeton That this meeting adjourn at 3:37 p.m. and that the next regular meeting of the Economic Development Committee will be held on Wednesday January 30, 2008 at 1:00 p.m. in Council Chambers, of the Municipal Offices in Port Carling, Ontario.
Carried.
Economic Development Committee Page 3 of 3 Meeting Minutes 01-08-08 THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF MUSKOKA LAKES
MINUTES – ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING Thursday February 7, 2008
A Regular Meeting of the Economic Development Committee was held on Thursday February 7, 2008, at 1:00 p.m., in the Council Chambers, Municipal Offices, Port Carling, Ontario.
Present: Officials Present:
Chair M. Grady W. Schmid - CAO T. Guthrie - Administrative Assistant, Clerk’s Department Members: L. Troup - Public Works Superintendent I. Da Silva - Applications Support Analyst Mayor Susan Pryke W. Oliver - IT Coordinator Councillor S. Martin David Margesson Regrets: Jane Templeton Heather Fraser Rob Farlie
1. Call to Order
a. The meeting was called to order by Chair Grady at 1:06 p.m.
Chair Grady introduced Teri Guthrie to the Committee. Teri, Administrative Assistant in the Clerk’s Department, has joined the Committee as per Committee’s request to the Township for support.
2. Adoption of Agenda
a. Consideration of a resolution to adopt the agenda.
Resolution Number EDC-1-07/02/08
Councillor Martin – David Margesson: Be it resolved that the Economic Development Committee Meeting agenda dated February 7, 2008 be adopted.
Carried.
3. Adoption of Minutes
a. Consideration of a resolution to adopt the Economic Development Committee meeting minutes held on January 8, 2008.
Resolution Number EDC-2-07-02/08
Heather Fraser – Councillor Martin: Be it resolved that the Economic Development Committee meeting minutes from the meeting held on January 8, 2008 be adopted.
Carried.
Economic Development Committee Minutes – February 7, 2008 – Page #2
The CAO explained disclosures of interest for the Committee and advised pecuniary disclosures of interest are to be declared when a Committee member or member’s family gain monetarily from the motion.
There were no disclosures of interest declared.
4. Presentation
a. Susan Church, Executive Director at Blue Sky Net and Neil Smellie, Owner of Core Broadband attended at 1:10 p.m.
Susan Church provided a review and brief history of this high speed internet project and indicated that the project is half way through its originally proposed timeline.
Neil Smellie, owner of Core Broadband provided a PowerPoint presentation about the phases completed in the project, a copy of which is attached. Completed sites in the Township of Muskoka Lakes include Bala, Port Carling, Eveleigh Road, Milford Bay, Minett, Scarcliffe, Ullswater and Ziska. Bass Lake, Rostrevor, Ufford and Rosseau Falls areas are not yet completed. The project has faced some issues including interference, tower access and new rules for tower location approval and construction through Industry Canada.
To resolve the interference problems, Core Broadband is bringing together all the partners involved in the project including local internet service providers and industry players to discuss the problems facing the project.
Susan and Neil answered questions on tower locations across the Township and the process followed in securing approval for new tower locations. The presenters explained the difference between licensed and unlicensed networks; Muskoka’s broadband network is unlicensed.
Neil provided a brief update on the Torrance tower and indicated that a tower is still part of their plan for providing service in that area. This tower will improve service between Torrance and Bala and provide service to areas that are not serviced due to the hilly terrain between the two towns. The Muskoka Lakes Fire Department has been assisting Core Broadband to resolve the accessibility issues they have been encountering with the Provincial Government with the tower in Torrance. This tower will potentially be used by the fire department as well.
In response to the Committee, the presenters advised that they would contact the Township if and when municipal support was required. It is important that support continue for this project from all people in the community. Core Broadband indicated that they would try to better inform the public on what is taking place with the project as well as Township Council.
5. New and Unfinished Business
a. Walt Schmid to review Corporate Identity Program/Signage
The CAO reviewed the progress made with the corporate identity/signage program. The program will begin with the Township of Muskoka Lakes entrance signs and the Port Carling and Bala community signs.
b. Review of Report to Council on 2007 Accomplishments and 2008 Goals
Economic Development Committee Minutes – February 7, 2008 – Page #3
Chair Grady advised the Committee that due to the cancellation and rescheduling of the meeting, the Report to Council will be made at the March 4, 2008 Council meeting.
It was the consensus of Committee to included a paragraph outlining the involvement of Municipal Departments for the achievements made in some parts of the strategy and note that accomplishments are not solely the effort of the Economic Development Committee.
Jane Templeton requested that the Chamber of Commerce be referred to in documents as the Muskoka Lakes Chamber of Commerce as there are many different Chambers of Commerce operating within the District of Muskoka.
Committee agreed to remove all but the last item under the section Budget Request to Township Council and add $1000 as the amount requested. This item should also include publications costs.
The Staff Support for Economic Development section was changed to read “2009” rather than “in the future”.
Resolution Number EDC-3-07/02/08
Mayor Pryke – Councillor Martin: Be it resolved that the Report to Council on 2007 Accomplishments and 2008 Glad, as amended, be forwarded to Township Council for review.
Carried. c. Finalize the Economic Development Strategy
Committee discussed affordable housing and senior home requirements in the Township of Muskoka Lakes. The CAO advised that there is a District wide committee for affordable housing meeting on February 19, 2008 which he will be attending.
Minor amendments were made to the Economic Development Strategy. It was the consensus of Committee to not update the 2006 Business Retention and Expansion report but to include Economic Development Committee contact information as a separate Appendix of the strategy.
Resolution Number EDC-4-07/02/08
David Margesson – Mayor Pryke: Be it resolved that the Economic Development Strategy, as amended, be forwarded to Township Council for review.
Carried. d. Walt Schmid to provide update on Streetscape Project
The CAO and Public Works Superintendent reviewed the designs for the Bala Streetscape Project. Committee provided their input on various aspects of the project including the proposed boardwalk, tree plantings along the roadway, the LCBO parking lot project and materials used for walkways.
Economic Development Committee Minutes – February 7, 2008 – Page #4
The CAO advised that he would meet with the business owners, whose businesses abut the project area to share the project plans for spring 2008 and address any concerns they may have.
A similar discussion will be held at the February 12th, 2008 Council meeting to obtain Council’s input on the project.
6. Future Meeting Schedule
a. The next regular meeting of Council will be held on Tuesday March 4, 2008, at 9:00 a.m., in the Council Chambers, Port Carling. The Economic Development Strategy and Report on 2007 Accomplishments and 2008 Goals will be presented at this meeting.
b. The next regular meeting of the Economic Development Committee will be held on Thursday March 6, 2008, at 1:00 p.m., in the Council Chambers, Port Carling.
7. Adjournment
a. Consideration of a resolution to adjourn.
Resolution Number EDC-5-07/02/08
Councillor Martin – Jane Templeton: Be it resolved that this meeting adjourn at 4:06 p.m. and the next regular meeting of the Economic Development Committee will be held on March 6, 2008 at 1:00 p.m. or at the call of the Chair in the Council Chambers, Municipal Office, Port Carling, Ontario.
Carried
______Chair M. Grady Mayor Pryke
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF MUSKOKA LAKES
MINUTES – ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING Thursday March 6, 2008
A Regular Meeting of the Economic Development Committee was held on Thursday March 6, 2008, at 1:00 p.m., in the Council Chambers, Municipal Offices, Port Carling, Ontario.
Present: Officials Present:
Chair M. Grady W. Schmid - CAO T. Guthrie - Administrative Assistant, Clerk’s Department Members:
Mayor Susan Pryke Rob Farley David Margesson Regrets: Heather Fraser Councillor S. Martin Jane Templeton
1. Call to Order
a. The meeting was called to order by Chair Grady at 1:08 p.m.
2. Adoption of Agenda
a. Consideration of a resolution to adopt the agenda.
Resolution Number EDC-1-06/03/08
Mayor Pryke – Heather Fraser: Be it resolved that the Economic Development Committee Meeting agenda dated March 6, 2008 be adopted.
Carried.
3. Adoption of Minutes
a. Consideration of a resolution to adopt the Economic Development Committee meeting minutes held on February 7, 2008.
Resolution Number EDC-2-06/03/08
Mayor Pryke – Robert Farlie: Be it resolved that the Economic Development Committee meeting minutes from the meeting held on February 7, 2008 be adopted.
Carried.
Economic Development Committee Minutes – March 6, 2008 – Page #2
4. Presentation
a. Samantha Hastings, Director of Policy and Programs, and Melissa Halford, Planner, from the District Municipality of Muskoka, attended at 1:00 p.m. Re: Phase 2 District Economic Strategy sector sessions.
Ms. Samantha Hastings provided Committee with a PowerPoint presentation highlighting Phase 2 of the District’s Economic strategy, a copy of which is attached. She provided a review of the first phase of the project and presented the summary of findings from the second phase of the strategy.
Mrs. Hastings indicated that the District is looking for input on the findings presented in the second phase of the strategy. Emails can be forwarded to either her email ([email protected]) or Mrs. Halford’s email ([email protected]). The District of Muskoka is also looking at creating a web interaction component for their website to receive comments on the strategy.
Mrs. Hastings provided a copy of Phase 1 Economic Development Strategy report and Phase 1 Muskoka Growth Strategy for Committee. A copy of each was made available to members of the Committee.
Committee discussed the role and mandate of the Muskoka Tourism Marketing Agency. It was the consensus of Committee to invite Gary Froud, to delegate at the next Economic Development Committee meeting to explain to the Committee Muskoka Tourism’s mandate and role in Muskoka.
5. New and Unfinished Business
a. Prioritizing 2008 Economic Development Projects
Committee discussed holding a public launch of the Economic Development Strategy. It was the consensus of Committee to hold an event in mid to late April.
The CAO advised that a resolution was required to forward the Economic Development Strategy to Township Council for approval prior to presenting it to the public.
Resolution Number EDC-3-06/03/08
Mayor Pryke – Heather Fraser: Be it resolved that the Economic Development Committee recommends that Township Council formally adopt the Economic Development Strategy entitled “Boundless Enthusiasm” as the economic development plan for the municipality.
Carried
Committee discussed other 2008 Projects such as community signage, events coordinator and the assignment of 2008 priorities to applicable committees and Township departments.
Heather Fraser presented information to the Committee about a customer service program called Superhost. Superhost is a training program that many businesses are implementing to help improve customer service. Committee requested a presentation regarding the Superhost program at the next Economic Development
Economic Development Committee Minutes – March 6, 2008 – Page #3
Committee and directed Heather Fraser to arrange a delegation.
b. Discussion regarding the District of Muskoka Economic Strategy Sessions.
Refer to item 4.a. Presentations.
c. For Information – Muskoka Growth Strategy Presentation Slides
Chair Grady indicated that the slides from the District Growth Strategy presentation is included in the agenda package for Committee members to read.
d. For Information – TOP Report January 2008
Chair Grady advised Committee that the TOP report is published by the Muskoka, Nipissing and Parry Sound Local Training and Adjustment Board.
Staff was directed to get hard copies of the report for Committee.
6. Future Meeting Schedule
7. Adjournment
a. Consideration of a resolution to adjourn.
Resolution Number EDC-4-06/03/08
David Margesson – Mayor Pryke: Be it resolved that this meeting adjourn at 2:51 p.m. and the next regular meeting of the Economic Development Committee will be held on Thursday April 3, 2008 at 1:00 p.m. or at the call of the Chair in the Council Chambers, Municipal Office, Port Carling, Ontario.
Carried
______Chair M. Grady Mayor Pryke
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF MUSKOKA LAKES
MINUTES – ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING Thursday April 3, 2008
A Regular Meeting of the Economic Development Committee was held on Thursday April 3, 2008, at 1:00 p.m., in the Council Chambers, Municipal Offices, Port Carling, Ontario.
Present: Officials Present:
Chair M. Grady W. Schmid - CAO T. Guthrie - Administrative Assistant, Clerk’s Department Members:
Mayor Susan Pryke Rob Farley David Margesson Heather Fraser Councillor S. Martin Jane Templeton
1. Call to Order
a. The meeting was called to order by Chair Grady at 1:04 p.m.
2. Adoption of Agenda
a. Consideration of a resolution to adopt the agenda as amended.
Resolution Number EDC-1-03/04/08
Mayor Pryke – Robert Farlie: Be it resolved that the Economic Development Committee Meeting agenda be adopted as amended.
Carried.
3. Disclosure of Interest
4. Adoption of Minutes
a. Consideration of a resolution to adopt the Economic Development Committee meeting minutes held on February 7, 2008.
Resolution Number EDC-2-03/04/08
David Margesson – Robert Farlie: Be it resolved that the Economic Development Committee meeting minutes from the meeting held on March 6, 2008 be adopted.
Carried.
Economic Development Committee Minutes – April 3, 2008 – Page #2
4. Presentation
a. Gary Froud, Muskoka Tourism Marketing Agency attended at 1:05 p.m. Re: MTMA
Mr. Gary Froud, Chair of the Muskoka Tourism Marketing Agency (MTMA) Board of Directors explained to Committee the operations and mandate of MTMA.
Muskoka Tourism is a District of Muskoka funded agency whose mandate is to market Muskoka outside of the area. MTMA operates two visitor information centres within Muskoka.
Mr. Froud explained the Premier Ranked Destination Framework (PRDF) initiative that MTMA has undertaken this last year. This document was included in the Township of Muskoka Lakes’ Economic Development Strategy.
Committee discussed the success of the 2010 Winter Game Committee which was an initiative that brought together the municipalities of the District of Muskoka. More collaborative efforts such as this are needed for Muskoka to work well as a tourist destination.
b. Wendy Paradis, VP Client Services, Ontario Tourism Education Corporation attended at 1:30 p.m. Re: Superhost
Ms. Wendy Paradis, VP of Client Services at the Ontario Tourism Education Corporation (OTEC) made a PowerPoint presentation to Committee about OTEC’s mandate and services. A copy of the presentation and hand out material is attached.
Ms. Paradis outlined the history of OTEC, National Tourism Programs offered, the Corporation’s core objectives and the Service Excellence program. She also described some of the tourism service initiatives that other areas in Ontario are embarking on including the Niagara area, Georgian Bay Coastal Route, Brantford, Cambridge and Windsor.
Through the Premier Ranked Destination Framework that many Ontario communities participated in, service and service training was a key requirement. Communities are using the PRDF to support funding applications for service training.
5. New and Unfinished Business
a. Discussion regarding Events Coordinator
It was the consensus of Committee to create a focus group to further discuss the needs and role of an events coordinator for the Township. At the Economic Development Strategy Launch the presenters will introduce the idea to the attendees and ask people to sign up if they are interested in being part of a focus group to discuss this.
b. Discussion regarding SuperHost Training Program
Committee discussed the Service Excellence Training Program and its relation to the
Economic Development Committee Minutes – April 3, 2008 – Page #3
service levels in the Township of Muskoka Lakes. This training program is available through the Muskoka Lakes Chamber of Commerce. Committee also discussed the Municipal office staff’s participation in such a training program.
Mayor Pryke advised that she would include information about the training program in the Mayor’s April newsletter.
c. Update and discussion regarding the Economic Development Strategy Launch
i. Invitation, Flyer and Guest List ii. Location, date and time iii. Marketing, Advertising and Press Release iv. Duties and Responsibilities
Committee discussed the Economic Development Strategy Launch being held on April 30, 2008 at the Delta Sherwood Inn from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.
Duties and responsibilities for the Launch were assigned to Committee members. Mayor Pryke will be the master of ceremonies, Chair Grady will present the task force findings and Rob Farlie will present a demonstration on BizPal. Other Committee members will be responsible for registration.
The Clerk’s Administrative Assistant will ensure the press release and marketing posters are distributed. Jane Templeton will email the invitation to the Chamber of Commerce’s membership.
d. Information Item Re: Economic Development Meeting
The CAO informed Committee that the Economic Development Officer in Gravenhurst, Lance Sherk, will be holding an economic development meeting at Grace and Speed on April 11, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. Topics for the meeting include dealing with gas rate hikes and the impact that the U.S. dollar and economy has on our economy in Muskoka.
e. Discussion regarding TOP Report Presentation
It was the consensus of Committee to invite the executive director from the Muskoka, Nipissing, Parry Sound, Local Training and Adjustment Board to the June Economic Development Committee. The LTAB Executive Director offered to make a presentation about the 2008 Trends, Opportunities and Priorities report recently published.
6. Future Meeting Schedule
Committee agreed to hold the next Economic Development Committee meeting on Thursday May 8, 2008 at 1pm.
7. Adjournment
Economic Development Committee Minutes – April 3, 2008 – Page #4
a. Consideration of a resolution to adjourn.
Resolution Number EDC-3-03/04/08
Heather Fraser – Jane Templeton: Be it resolved that this meeting adjourn at 3:40 p.m. and the next regular meeting of the Economic Development Committee will be held on May 8, 2008 at 1:00 p.m. or at the call of the Chair in the Council Chambers, Municipal Office, Port Carling, Ontario.
Carried
______Chair M. Grady Mayor Pryke
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF MUSKOKA LAKES
MINUTES – ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING Thursday May 8, 2008
A Regular Meeting of the Economic Development Committee was held on Thursday May 8, 2008, at 1:00 p.m., in the Council Chambers, Municipal Offices, Port Carling, Ontario.
Present: Officials Present:
Chair M. Grady W. Schmid - CAO T. Guthrie - Administrative Assistant, Clerk’s Department Members:
Mayor Susan Pryke Jane Templeton David Margesson Heather Fraser Councillor S. Martin
1. Call to Order
a. The meeting was called to order by Chair Grady at 1:04 p.m.
2. Adoption of Agenda
a. Consideration of a resolution to adopt the agenda as amended.
Resolution Number EDC-1-08/05/08
Jane Templeton – Heather Fraser: Be it resolved that the Economic Development Committee Meeting agenda be adopted.
Carried.
3. Disclosure of Interest
4. Adoption of Minutes
a. Consideration of a resolution to adopt the Economic Development Committee meeting minutes held on April 3, 2008.
Resolution Number EDC-2-08/05/08
Heather Fraser – Jane Templeton: Be it resolved that the Economic Development Committee meeting minutes from the meeting held on April 3, 2008 be adopted.
Carried.
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Economic Development Committee Minutes – May 8, 2008
4. Presentation
5. New and Unfinished Business
a. Summary of the Economic Development Strategy Launch – A copy of the summary is attached.
Committee discussed the results of the April 30th launch event held at the Delta Sherwood Inn. Committee members have received positive feedback from attendees regarding the event.
b. Events Coordination Round Table
At the Economic Development Strategy launch, the Committee collected names for an events coordination round table. Gary Froud from Muskoka Tourism, Jody Gilles from Delta Sherwood Inn and Heather Fraser volunteered to sit on a round table.
The Committee discussed times in the fall to hold the event as well as what the goal would be for it. It was the consensus of Committee to take a month to think about the event and bring ideas back to the June Economic Development Committee meeting for further discussion.
Committee discussed having Kelly Haywood from the Huntsville Lake of Bays Chamber of Commerce come to the next Economic Development Committee meeting to share her experience with event coordination in the Town of Huntsville. The CAO was directed to set up her delegation for the June meeting.
c. 2010 Youth Winter Games Update
The CAO reported that the Youth Winter Games planning committee is starting to schedule event organizing meeting. Jane Templeton indicated that she recently received an email from the Games Committee advising that they are currently looking for a chair for the organizing committee.
6. Future Meeting Schedule
a. Summer Meeting Schedule
Committee discussed a meeting schedule for the summer months and decided that a meeting will be held in June to further discuss community events. Committee also felt that a meeting should be held at some point in the summer to plan the events coordination round table event for the fall. It was the consensus of Committee to finalize the summer meeting schedule at the June meeting.
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Economic Development Committee Minutes – May 8, 2008
7. Adjournment
a. Consideration of a resolution to adjourn.
Resolution Number EDC-3-08/05/08
Jane Templeton:- Heather Fraser: Be it resolved that this meeting adjourn at 2:30 p.m. and the next regular meeting of the Economic Development Committee will be held on June 5, 2008 at 1:00 p.m. or at the call of the Chair in the Council Chambers, Municipal Office, Port Carling, Ontario.
Carried
______Chair M. Grady Mayor Pryke
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF MUSKOKA LAKES
MINUTES – ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING Thursday June 5, 2008
A Regular Meeting of the Economic Development Committee was held on Thursday June 5, 2008, at 1:00 p.m., in the Council Chambers, Municipal Offices, Port Carling, Ontario.
Present: Officials Present:
Chair M. Grady W. Schmid - CAO T. Guthrie - Administrative Assistant, Clerk’s Department Members: W. Oliver - IT Coordinator L. Troup - Public Works Superintendent Mayor Susan Pryke I. Da Silva - Applications Support Analyst Jane Templeton Heather Fraser
1. Call to Order
a. The meeting was called to order by Chair Grady at 1:03 p.m.
2. Adoption of Agenda
a. Consideration of a resolution to adopt the agenda as amended.
Resolution Number EDC-1-05/06/08
Heather Fraser – Mayor Pryke: Be it resolved that the Economic Development Committee Meeting agenda dated June 5, 2008 be adopted.
Carried.
3. Declaration of Conflict of Interest
a. None
4. Adoption of Minutes
a. Consideration of a resolution to adopt the Economic Development Committee meeting minutes held on May 8, 2008.
Resolution Number EDC-2-05/06/08
Jane Templeton – Mayor Pryke: Be it resolved that the Economic Development Committee meeting minutes from the meeting held on May 8, 2008 be adopted.
Carried.
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Economic Development Committee Minutes – June 5, 2008
5. Delegations and Petitions
a. Kelly Haywood, Manager of the Huntsville Lake of Bays Chamber of Commerce and John Finley, Economic Development Officer at the Town of Huntsville, attended the meeting at 1:05 p.m. Re: Community Events
Kelly Haywood and John Finley provided a PowerPoint presentation for Committee regarding Huntsville’s Event Tourism Initiative, a copy of which is attached.
Ms. Haywood provided a history of the event tourism initiative in Huntsville as well as the impacts of event tourism on Muskoka. She indicated that there is an economic injection and sense of civic pride generated by the events held. Events create a positive profile of the community as well as a legacy from the event. She defined legacy as what is left behind for the community from holding an event such as infrastructure.
Mr. Finley indicated that it took Ms. Haywood and himself over a year of data collection and public input to put together a plan for events in Huntsville. After their initial year of market research they invited the community groups to the table to discuss an event tourism initiative.
Ms. Haywood provided the Committee with a copy of the Business Plan for Huntsville, Lake of Bays Event Tourism and External Marketing, which is attached. They now have a 4 year plan for event tourism in the Town and a $400,000.00 commitment to the initiative.
Mr. Finley recommended that the Township of Muskoka Lakes take inventory of what they have within its boundaries before beginning any initiative. This will help the Township define what they will become. Ms. Haywood recommended that the Township provide a place for people to come to hold event rather than paying money for people to bring an event to the community. The Town of Huntsville looked for events to hold during the shoulder seasons since the summer months are already busy in the Town as well as events with little impact on the infrastructure. Huntsville’s events are outdoor events such as the triathlons and pond hockey.
Ms. Haywood and Mr. Finley offered their help and support to the Economic Development Committee and the Township of Muskoka Lakes in developing an event tourism initiative.
b. Noel Waters, Director of Roads and Waste Management for the District of Muskoka, attended at 1:40 p.m. Re: Brackenrig Road Realignment Project
Noel Waters, Director of Roads and Waste Management at the District of Muskoka provided an update for Committee on the road projects taking place within the Township of Muskoka Lakes including the Brackenrig Road Realignment Project. This project will be completed by fall 2008.
Mr. Waters advised that road projects were also taking place on Mortimer’s Point Road, Juddhaven Road, Southwood Road, Gregory Road and Falkenburg Road and that a traffic light will soon be put in at Peninsula Road and Muskoka Road 118 because of the increased traffic created by Red Leaves. Mr. Waters indicated that Juddhaven Road has been damaged from the heavy trucks and equipment travelling
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Economic Development Committee Minutes – June 5, 2008
the road to access Red Leaves. He ensured that the road will be repaired by Red Leaves.
The CAO recommended that the Economic Development Committee should pass a resolution at the next meeting to support the realignment and improvements of Brackenrig Road as it is identified in the Township’s Strategic Plan as a key north south transportation corridor.
Committee discussed the possibility of traffic lights being installed at Bala Falls Road and Muskoka Road 169. Mr. Waters indicated that during the hydro plant project the road in that area will be reduced to one lane with temporary traffic lights installed, however there are no plans for permanent lights.
c. Heather Fraser attended at 1:55 p.m. Re: Duke House
Heather Fraser was recently hired by the Township of Muskoka Lakes to operated the Duke House Visitor Information Centre until October 19, 2008. Two other employees were hired for the Duke House as well.
Ms. Fraser provided a PowerPoint presentation to Committee outlining the goals and plans for the Duke House this summer. A copy of the presentation is attached. Her goals are to create a dynamic and attractive location for visitors to come to, to develop a positive rapport with local businesses, to create a database of visitors and to train and direct the Duke House staff using Service Excellence training. The staff at the Duke House also plan on holding events during the summer to attract people to the centre.
Jane Templeton requested that the Muskoka Lakes Chamber of Commerce’s logo be used in conjunction with the Township of Muskoka Lakes’ logo.
6. New and Unfinished Business
a. Verbal Report from the CAO Re: Lake Muskoka Autumn Shopping Adventure
The CAO highlighted the Lake Muskoka Autumn Shopping Adventure promotion for Committee. He indicated that the project is to create shoulder season shopping in the communities around Lake Muskoka including Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Bala and Port Carling.
b. Planning for Fall event round table discussions
Committee discussed holding a round table to discuss the Township of Muskoka Lakes event coordination. A date for the round table was set for Wednesday September 17, 2008 at 5pm, location to be determined.
Mayor Pryke, the CAO and Councillor Grady will meet prior to the next Economic Development Committee meeting to discuss the layout and plans for the event and will present them at the July meeting.
Mayor Pryke offered to create a list of invitees for the round table discussion and advised that if anyone knew someone that should be included they could email the names to her.
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Economic Development Committee Minutes – June 5, 2008
c. Port Carling Sewage Treatment Plant
Committee briefly discussed the Port Carling Sewage Treatment Plant. It was the consensus of Committee to have a delegation at Management and Services to provide an update on the project.
7. Future Meeting Schedule
Committee discussed holding the next Economic Development Committee meeting in July and encouraged all members to attend. A meeting was scheduled for Tuesday July 15, 2008 at 8 a.m. in the Council Chambers. David Margesson and Rob Farlie were contacted by phone to advise of the next meeting.
8. Adjournment
a. Consideration of a resolution to adjourn.
Resolution Number EDC-3-05/06/08
Mayor Pryke:- Heather Fraser: Be it resolved that this meeting adjourn at 3:14 p.m. and the next regular meeting of the Economic Development Committee will be held at the call of the Chair in the Council Chambers, Municipal Office, Port Carling, Ontario.
Carried
______Chair M. Grady Mayor Pryke
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF MUSKOKA LAKES
MINUTES – ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING Tuesday July 15, 2008
A Regular Meeting of the Economic Development Committee was held on Tuesday July 15, 2008, at 8:00 a.m., in the Council Chambers, Municipal Offices, Port Carling, Ontario.
Present: Officials Present:
Chair M. Grady W. Schmid - CAO T. Guthrie - Administrative Assistant, Clerk’s Department Members:
Mayor Susan Pryke Jane Templeton Heather Fraser Rob Farlie David Margesson Councillor Martin
1. Call to Order
a. The meeting was called to order by Chair Grady at 8:05 a.m.
2. Adoption of Agenda
a. Consideration of a resolution to adopt the agenda.
Resolution Number EDC-1-15/07/08
Councillor Martin – Heather Fraser: Be it resolved that the Economic Development Committee Meeting agenda be adopted.
Carried.
3. Declaration of Conflict of Interest
a. None
4. Adoption of Minutes
a. Consideration of a resolution to adopt the Economic Development Committee meeting minutes held on June 5, 2008.
Resolution Number EDC-2-15/07/08
Councillor Martin – Heather Fraser: Be it resolved that the Economic Development Committee meeting minutes from the meeting held on June 5, 2008 be adopted.
Carried.
Economic Development Committee Minutes – July 15, 2008
5. New and Unfinished Business
a. Consideration of a resolution Re: Support for the Muskoka Road #25 (Brackenrig Road) realignment project.
The CAO noted that this resolution would be forwarded to Council to support the District Municipality of Muskoka’s Brackenrig Road realignment and improvement project.
Resolution Number EDC-3-15/07/08
Councillor Martin – Rob Farlie: Be it resolved that the Economic Development Committee support and endorse the realignments and improvements proposed by the District Municipality of Muskoka for Muskoka Road #25 (Brackenrig Road), which has been identified in the Township’s Economic Development Strategy “Boundless Enthusiasm” as a vital north south transportation corridor.
Carried.
b. Discussion and Planning of the Event Coordination Round Table Meeting
Committee discussed the details of the September 17th Event Coordination Round Table Meeting to be held at the Port Carling Memorial Community Centre.
6. Future Meeting Schedule
Committee decided not to hold an Economic Development Committee meeting in August. A meeting will be held following the Round Table Event to discuss the event.
7. Adjournment
a. Consideration of a resolution to adjourn.
Resolution Number EDC-4-15/07/08
Heather Fraser – David Margesson: Be it resolved that this meeting adjourn at 9:48 a.m. and the next regular meeting of the Economic Development Committee will be held on Tuesday September 23, 2008 at 1 p.m. or at the call of the Chair in the Council Chambers, Municipal Office, Port Carling, Ontario.
Carried
______Chair M. Grady Mayor Pryke