Township of Georgian Bluffs
Revised Special Council Agenda
November 24, 2020, 5:00 p.m.
Council Chambers remain closed to the public. Should you wish to participate electronically, contact the Clerk at [email protected] This document can be made available in other accessible formats or with communications supports as soon as practicable and upon request.
Pages
1. Call to Order
2. Approval of Agenda
Recommendation: That the agenda be approved as presented.
3. Declaration of Pecuniary Interest
4. Presentations
4.1. Informational Presentation 4
To be provided by:
• Steve Furness – Economic Development, County of Grey
• Danielle Edwards - Economic Development, Township of South Bruce Peninsula
• Jennifer Burnett – Senior Planner, Township of Georgian Bluffs
• Kassandra Rocca – Interim CAO / Director of Finance / Treasurer, Township of Georgian Bluffs
• Trent Gervais – Loomex Group 5. Correspondence
5.1. Alison Hepburn 104
5.2. Alvin and Diane Bye 106
5.3. Barbara Gray and Brenden Mulroy 107
5.4. Bob and Susan Porter 108
5.5. Bob Clendinning 109
5.6. Carol Porter 110
5.7. Colin Dyke 111
5.8. Dave Summerton and Don Brough 112
5.9. Fred Mandeno 115
5.10. Peter Ceponis 117
5.11. Rob McLeese 118
5.12. Tom Briggs 119
5.13. Woody Simmons 121
5.14. Mike LeBer, COPA 123
5.15. Bill Wilson 129
5.16. Paul Cash 130
5.17. Katherine Ellis 132
*5.18. Sarah Poirier - Wiarton Hospital 135
6. Public Commentary and Question Period
Registrants to be provided five minutes per speaker to submit comments and ask questions of Council regarding the airport.
Page 2 of 136 7. Confirming By-law
Recommendation: That By-law 2020-130, being a by-law to confirm the proceedings of Council on November 24, 2020, be read a first, second and third time, finally passed, signed by the Mayor and Clerk, sealed with the Seal of the Corporation and engrossed in the By-law Book.
8. Date of Next Regular Meeting/Adjournment
Council – December 2, 2020, 5:00 p.m.
Page 3 of 136 WIARTON KEPPEL INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT November 24, 2020 Public Meeting
Page 4 of 136 • Steve Furness – Economic Development, County of Grey • Danielle Edwards - Economic Development, Township of South Bruce Peninsula • Jennifer Burnett – Senior Planner, Township of Georgian INTRODUCTION Bluffs • Kassandra Rocca – Interim CAO / Director of Finance / Treasurer, Township of Georgian Bluffs • Trent Gervais – Loomex Group
Page 5 of 136 GREY COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Steve Furness Page 6 of 136 • First identified potential investment opportunity in 2018 • Determined the developable portion of airport to be over 400 acres, with 3 phase power, gas and services AIRPORT: • Resident survey of interest in regular scheduled POTENTIAL flights to Toronto • Preliminary FDI outreach, toured Germany, Iran, and GTA investors • Outreach to Southern Ontario Airport Network • Attended Canadian Areospace Conference 2019
Page 7 of 136 Reduce operating deficit and work towards self sufficiency (work with new airport operator)
To become Grey Bruce region’s Undertake regional study aviation hub offering exceptional service to leisure, corporate and identifying opportunities and business flyers. partners, PROPOSED Prepare a development plan OBJECTIVE AND Goals – Short Term GOALS (phased and costed)
Promote & marketing airport (tell people about airport)
Undertake investment attraction (tell investors the economic advantages of the region) Page 8 of 136 Definite interest in airport assets
Unique assets with 400 acres of developable airport lands
CONCLUSION Need to have a development plan and vision
No one knows airport exists, need to market and promote
Council and public unsure of development potential and opportunities
Page 9 of 136 TOWNSHIP OF SOUTH BRUCE PENINSULA
Danielle Edwards Page 10 of 136 RESORT/HOTEL FEASIBILITY STUDY
Page 11 of 136 Page 12 of 136 ASSET TO RESORT/HOTEL DEVELOPMENT
Page 13 of 136 PLANNING POLICIES
Jennifer Burnett Page 14 of 136 • Grey County Official Plan – NEC, Hazard, Wetland and Rural
• Georgian Bluffs Official Plan – 4.4 Wiarton Keppel OFFICIAL PLAN International Airport POLICY DESIGNATIONS • Bruce County Official Plan – Hamlet
• South Bruce Peninsula Official Plan - Rural
Page 15 of 136 ZONING
• AP- Airport • EP- Environmental Protection • NEC – Niagara Escarpment Plan • FD-a – Future Development (South Bruce Peninsula Zoning By-law 122-2009) • Wiarton Airport Zoning FD-a Regulations
Page 16 of 136 Transportation terminal Airport related uses Industrial uses Warehouse AP PERMITTED Business office USES Research laboratory Trade school Printing establishment Restaurant Wellness centre
Page 17 of 136 EP – ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND GSCA REGULATED AREAS
Page 18 of 136 FINANCE
Kassandra Rocca Page 19 of 136 • Prior to purchasing full ownership of the airport in 2015, Georgian Bluffs was still responsible for 50% of the costs associated with the airport. Amounts paid for the airport in years prior to full ownership are as follows:
AIRPORT EXPENSES • 2014: $145,030 2013: $151,030 2012: $89,880 PRIOR TO 2011: $83,514.18 2010: $58,800.50 FULL OWNERSHIP • During these years, very little capital work was performed at the airport.
Page 20 of 136 • In 2015, Council of the Township of Georgian Bluffs agreed to purchase South Bruce Peninsula’s 50% share in the Wiarton Keppel International Airport at a cost of $600,000. To fund the purchase, the Township took out a 10 year loan for $600,000.
AIRPORT Initial Amount of Loan July 2015: $600,000 PURCHASE Principal Payments to October 2020: ($320,000) Loan Balance as of October 31, 2020: $280,000
• Interest Payments on loan to date: $66,285.68
Page 21 of 136 • As the airport was purchased part way through 2015, a formal budget was not prepared for airport operations
• After purchasing the airport, revenues and expenses for 2015 2015 BUDGET VS were as follows: ACTUAL Expenses: $215,444.07 Revenues: ($112,587.02) $102,857.05 Georgian Bluffs Airport Expense for 2015
Page 22 of 136 2016 BUDGET VS ACTUAL
Page 23 of 136 Budget Actual Revenues
Land Leases, Building Rentals, Hangar Leases $30,000.00 $29,476.88 Fuel Sales $110,250.00 $105,504.37 Parking, Landing, Call out fees $4,500.00 $2,991.76 Bank Interest Earned $250.00 $816.87 Donations $0.00 $1,630.31 Miscellaneous Revenues $0.00 $608.81 Note 1: When 2016 budget was prepared, GB was using a Other $1,800.00 management company to run the airport. In June 2016, GB $146,800.00 $141,029.00 terminated the contract with the management company and hired staff to run airport Expenses Salaries & Benefits & Training & Mileage $2,655.00 $88,315.30Note 1 Management Contract $142,000.00 $87,191.69Note 1 Note 2: GB budgeted $25,000 to complete a business plan. Heat, Hydro, Water, Telephone, Internet $24,660.00 $47,191.35 Actual cost $52,950 which was approved by Finance Committee Office, Materials & Supplies $15,260.00 $17,560.21 on June 1, 2016 Insurance $13,300.00 $17,626.68 Bank Service Charges $2,300.00 $2,511.27 Note 3: $128,500 was budgeted for capital projects. Some of the Membership Fees & Subscriptions $1,720.00 $696.50 items are including in building repair and maintenance expense Professional Fees $3,325.00 $2,940.00 Fuel Purchases $66,830.00 $65,670.19 line as they were not capital in nature. The rest were not Safety Management System $756.14 completed Building & Property Maintenance $3,475.00 $25,277.16 Runway Maintenance $6,650.00 $2,637.51 Note 4: Cleaning up accounts transferred to GB when Equipment Maintenance $3,325.00 $17,420.01 ownership was taken over 100% Special Projects $25,000.00 $52,950.00Note 2 Bad Debt Expense $13,384.42Note 4 $310,500.00 $442,128.43
Capital Expenses $128,500.00 $0.00Note 3
Amount funded from GB Tax Levy $292,200.00 $301,099.43 (Operating Expense + Capital Expense - Revenues) Page 24 of 136 2017 BUDGET VS ACTUAL
Page 25 of 136 Budget Actual Revenues Land Leases, Building Rentals, Hangar Leases $30,000.00 $41,543.91 Fuel Sales $95,400.00 $122,852.84 Parking, Landing, Call out fees $1,250.00 $10,551.50 Bank Interest Earned $400.00 $1,799.48 Donations $620.00 Miscellaneous Revenues $2,655.54 Gain on Sale of Hangar #3 $32,087.24Note 3 Other $40,000.00 $40,000.00Note 1 $167,050.00 $252,110.51 Note 1: The 2017 budget included a $40,000 transfer from GB reserve to pay for capital projects Expenses Salaries & Benefits & Training & Mileage $191,000.00 $263,215.41 Management Contract Note 2: $26,838 for Quality Assurance Audit. Budget for this Heat, Hydro, Water, Telephone, Internet $29,500.00 $44,765.66 item was $25,000. $173,428 for Restaurant Construction. This Office, Materials & Supplies $11,850.00 $20,097.19 item was included in 2017 budget for $175,000. Council Insurance $18,000.00 $18,846.14 approved awarding the project February 22, 2017 Bank Service Charges $1,000.00 $3,306.88 Membership Fees & Subscriptions $1,500.00 $2,930.47 Professional Fees $2,500.00 $1,580.00 Note 3: In report OPS2017-82, council approved the sale of Fuel Purchases $82,000.00 $92,550.98 Hangar #3 and directed that proceeds from the sale be placed in Safety Management System $18.43 airport operating budget. Sale price $40,773 - Net Book Value Building & Property Maintenance $5,000.00 $20,749.07 $8685.76 = $32,087.24 Gain on Sale Runway Maintenance $5,000.00 $28,031.64 Equipment Maintenance $13,500.00 $9,345.92 Special Projects $25,000.00 $26,838.39Note 2 Bad Debt Expense $385,850.00 $532,276.18
Capital Expenses $186,000.00 $173,388.42Note 2
Amount funded from GB Tax Levy $404,800.00 $453,554.09 (Operating Expense + Capital Expense - Revenues) Page 26 of 136 CUMULATIVE TOTAL 2016, 2017 $697,000.00 $754,653.52 2018 BUDGET VS ACTUAL
Page 27 of 136 Budget Actual Revenues Land Leases, Building Rentals, Hangar Leases $38,000.00 $48,536.11 Fuel Sales $100,500.00 $153,064.81 Parking, Landing, Call out fees $15,000.00 $13,085.00 Bank Interest Earned $1,000.00 $1,796.74 Donations $60.00 Miscellaneous Revenues $1,000.00 $56,223.29Note 2 Gain on Sale of Hangar #3 Other $98,737.00Note 1,3 $155,500.00 $371,502.95 Note 1: Air Service Survey. $13,250 was funded from the RED grant received. The remaining $18,250 was approved by council Expenses Salaries & Benefits & Training & Mileage $230,250.00 $247,581.90 to be funded from reserves Management Contract Heat, Hydro, Water, Telephone, Internet $42,500.00 $34,523.66 Note 2: $13,250 received from RED Grant for Air Service Office, Materials & Supplies $10,750.00 $15,721.58 Survey Project. $34,500 received from Canada 150 grant for Insurance $18,000.00 $19,694.00 Window replacement project Bank Service Charges $2,500.00 $4,119.00 Membership Fees & Subscriptions $2,000.00 $1,910.33 Professional Fees $2,000.00 $3,582.14 Note 3: Actuals include $47,609.22 for Fuel Pump Upgrades. Fuel Purchases $84,000.00 $122,458.82 This project was approved in the capital budget for a total of Safety Management System $158.58 $120,000. $114,987 was for Windows and Doors upgrades in the Building & Property Maintenance $10,000.00 $12,270.80 Runway Maintenance $5,000.00 $5,587.92 terminal building. A grant of $34,500 was received for the Equipment Maintenance $12,500.00 $11,853.24 project. The remaining $80,487 was approved by council to be Special Projects $31,500.00Note 1 funded from reserves. Bad Debt Expense $56.27 $419,500.00 $511,018.24
Capital Expenses $140,000.00 $162,596.22Note 3
Amount funded from GB Tax Levy $404,000.00 $302,111.51 (Operating Expense + Capital Expense - Revenues)
CUMULATIVE TOTAL 2016, 2017, 2018 $1,101,000.00 $1,056,765.03 Page 28 of 136 2019 BUDGET VS ACTUAL
Page 29 of 136 Budget Actual Revenues
Land Leases, Building Rentals, Hangar Leases $47,000.00 $61,422.57 Fuel Sales $128,500.00 $213,429.17 Parking, Landing, Call out fees $15,000.00 $17,484.57 Bank Interest Earned $1,500.00 $2,875.66 Donations Miscellaneous Revenues $1,000.00 $15,581.83 Gain on Sale of Hangar #3 Other $58,530.00Note 2 $193,000.00 $369,323.80 Note 1: Capital projects include $52,440 so runway repairs, $13,837.50 for a new gate, and $90,543.62 for fuel pumps Expenses Salaries & Benefits & Training & Mileage $256,750.00 $271,696.97 Note 2: Scheduled service cost. Council approved funding this Management Contract Heat, Hydro, Water, Telephone, Internet $32,000.00 $39,377.29 cost from working capital reserves Office, Materials & Supplies $14,000.00 $22,691.59 Insurance $20,000.00 $20,120.40 Note 3: Write off of outstanding rents at restaurant. In Bank Service Charges $3,000.00 $5,470.59 exchange for lost rents, the former tenants left kitchen Membership Fees & Subscriptions $2,000.00 $3,818.00 Professional Fees $2,000.00 $3,902.86 equipment which is now owned by the Township. A report was Fuel Purchases $100,250.00 $194,466.43 taken to Council in 2019 on this. Safety Management System Building & Property Maintenance $10,000.00 $28,077.52 Runway Maintenance $5,000.00 $5,028.53 Equipment Maintenance $11,500.00 $15,419.74 Special Projects $58,530.60Note 2 Bad Debt Expense $10,965.60Note 3 $456,500.00 $679,566.12
Capital Expenses $140,000.00 $156,821.12Note 1
Amount funded from GB Tax Levy $403,500.00 $467,063.44 (Operating Expense + Capital Expense - Revenues)
CUMULATIVE TOTAL 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 $1,504,500.00 $1,523,828.47 Page 30 of 136 2020 BUDGETED EXPENDITURES BY SERVICES Garbage/Recycling Biodigester 4% Recreation & 0% Reserve Transfers Facilities 8% Fire 8% 5%
Water/Sewer 7% Police 10% Planning/Building/ Bylaw AIRPORT AS A 3% Conservation PERCENTAGE OF 1% Library OVERALL EXPENSES 2% Airport 3%
General Public Works Government 33% 16%
Page 31 of 136 • 2020 Municipal Tax Levy: $10,037,185
• Tax Levy used by Airport: $394,150
• Percentage of Tax Levy Spent on Airport: 3.9%
• Therefore, for every $1 of taxes collected, 4 cents AIRPORT AS goes to operating the airport A PERCENTAGE OF OVERALL TAX LEVY
Total Municipal Taxation Airport Page 32 of 136 MANAGEMENT – LOOMEX GROUP
Trent Gervais Page 33 of 136 The Loomex Group
925- 550 Airport Rd Peterborough, ON Page705.775.5022 34 of 136 l o o m e x . c a WIARTON KEPPEL INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
PageLoomex.ca 35 of 136 01 ABOUT WIARTON
02 “WHY WIARTON” AGENDA 03 “BUILD IT AND THEY WILL COME”
04 SIMILAR AIRPORT EXAMPLES
05 BENEFITS OF REGIONALIZATION
06 QUESTIONS
PageLoomex.ca 36 of 136 WIARTON KEPPEL INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
PageLoomex.ca 37 of 136 WIARTON AIRPORT
Regionalization • The goal is for the airport to be self-sustaining • The airport would move to a business-model to achieve profitability • Moving to this model would relieve the burden on taxpayers of the Township while still allowing the community to have the benefits seen from the airport
PageLoomex.ca 38 of 136 WIARTON AIRPORT
• Only certified airport in Grey Bruce counties • Primary runway is approximately 5000’ with secondary runway • Canada Customs Airport of Entry (seasonal) • Open 24 hours per day, 365 days per year • Host to Nav Canada’s back-up navigation equipment for Central Ontario
Taken from the Wiarton Keppel International Airport website PageLoomex.ca 39 of 136 WIARTON AIRPORT
• 38 Medevac flights (including organ transportation) in 2019
Taken from the Wiarton Keppel International Airport Facebook page PageLoomex.ca 40 of 136 WIARTON AIRPORT – MEDEVAC DATA
• 8 fixed wing flights • 30 rotary wing flights • Flights may transport inpatients, organs for donation, outpatients • Flights often come to the airport as a hub for Grey and Bruce counties • Easy for patient transfer and to fuel
PageLoomex.ca 41 of 136 WIARTON AIRPORT
Taken from the Wiarton • 24 hour human Keppel International weather observer on- Airport website site • Located on 820 acres of land, just two kilometres outside of Wiarton • Services available 365 days per year • Two runways with a joining taxiway system and a public apron • Primary runway boasts a variety of IFR approaches
PageLoomex.ca 42 of 136 WIARTON AIRPORT
• Public terminal building with a pilot's lounge • Major on-site tenants include: Canadian Coast Guard, Nav Canada, Bayside Aero AMO • On-site restaurant
Taken from the Wiarton Keppel International Airport website
PageLoomex.ca 43 of 136 WIARTON AIRPORT
Month Movements • 2019 Movements January 86 ▪ 4772 total take-offs and February 124 landings March 267 April 232 • Itinerant movements May 317 totaled 3892 June 686 July 736 August 708 • In 2019 over 90 September 584 percent of the charter October 682 flights originated from November 190 the United States December 160 TOTAL 4772 PageLoomex.ca 44 of 136 WIARTON AIRPORT
• Aircraft fuelling at Wiarton: ▪ Two fuel types on site, 100LL and Jet-A ▪ Cardlock System ▪ Available to pilots 24 hours a day ▪ Competitive rates
PageLoomex.ca 45 of 136 WIARTON AIRPORT
• Economic Impact of the Airport on the Region (2016)
Explorer Solutions - WKIA Economic Impact & Feasibility Study 2016
PageLoomex.ca 46 of 136 WHY WIARTON?
PageLoomex.ca 47 of 136 Taken from Grey County Airport Business Development PageLoomex.ca 48 of 136 Publication 75km Radius from the Wiarton Airport WHY WIARTON
Population of 153, 601 in this area PageLoomex.ca 49 of 136 WHY WIARTON
• Declared “Recovery Airport” by Nav Canada • Frequently used by DND, Coast Guard, OPP, and other emergency service providers
Taken from the Wiarton Keppel International Airport website
PageLoomex.ca 50 of 136 WHY WIARTON
• Total of 420 acres developable land are available • Airside parcels of 50+ acres available • Flexible land leases, option to build/lease • Services: 3 phase power, municipal water, septic waste, natural gas
Taken from the Wiarton Keppel International Airport website PageLoomex.ca 51 of 136 WHY WIARTON
• Localizer Performance with Vertical Guidance (LPV) in 2019 • Lowest landing minima of 250ft in the region • Increased reliability and extremely helpful to Taken from Air Facts land during bad weather Journal website conditions
PageLoomex.ca 52 of 136 WHY WIARTON
• The primary runway has a Pavement Load Rating (PLR) of 9, capable of carrying loads of 90,720kg • Designed to accommodate a wide range of aircraft including large corporate jets, turboprops, and narrow- body airliners including the B737 • Airport can accommodate large military and commercial aircraft that no other airport in the region could handle
Taken from the Wiarton Keppel International Airport website PageLoomex.ca 53 of 136 WHY WIARTON
• Competitive airport landing and parking fees to attract more traffic at the airport • Ease of doing business
Taken from the Wiarton Keppel International Airport website
PageLoomex.ca 54 of 136 WHY WIARTON
Potential Runway Extension • Runway 05/23 has the potential to be extended from 5000ft to 7500ft (based on needs and circumstances) • Could accommodate larger aircraft to support airport Taken from the Wiarton activity growth in Keppel International future Airport website
PageLoomex.ca 55 of 136 WHY WIARTON
PageLoomex.ca 56 of 136 HIGH POTENTIAL AVIATION OPPORTUNITIES
Flight School Tourism Packages
MRO New Hangars
Explorer Solutions - WKIA Economic Impact & Feasibility Study 2016 PageLoomex.ca 57 of 136 HIGH POTENTIAL NON-AVIATION OPPORTUNITIES
Industrial Agriculture Park
Solar Farm Hosting Events
Explorer Solutions - WKIA Economic Impact & Feasibility Study 2016 PageLoomex.ca 58 of 136 PETERBOROUGH AIRPORT – “BUILD IT AND THEY WILL COME”
PageLoomex.ca 59 of 136 PETERBOROUGH AIRPORT
• AddAirport slides from Ownership other presentations. (885 acres)
PageLoomex.ca 60 of 136 PETERBOROUGH AIRPORT
• Steps taken to position the airport for growth: ▪ Municipal Servicing 2003 ▪ Streamlined building process ▪ City Council support ▪ Business Case ▪ Master Plan ▪ Strategic Development Plan 2017 PageLoomex.ca 61 of 136 PETERBOROUGH AIRPORT
• Add slides from other presentations.
Summer 2007
PageLoomex.ca 62 of 136 PETERBOROUGH AIRPORT
• Add slides from other presentations.
August 2011
PageLoomex.ca 63 of 136 PETERBOROUGH AIRPORT
• Add slides from other presentations.
August 2017
PageLoomex.ca 64 of 136 PETERBOROUGH AIRPORT
• Add slides from other presentations.
August 2020
PageLoomex.ca 65 of 136 PETERBOROUGHAugust 2020 AIRPORT
• Add slides from other presentations.
PageLoomex.ca 66 of 136 PETERBOROUGH AIRPORT
• Add slides from other presentations.
Commercial Buildings 2008-2016
Value $32.0 Million PageLoomex.ca 67 of 136 237,000 sq. ft. PETERBOROUGH AIRPORT
• Capital investment 2008-2017
Federal & City Year Provincial Total Investment Contributions 2008 $7.6 M $7.6M 2010 $7.0M $14.0M $21.0M 2013 $6.0M $6.0M 2015/2016 $3.85M $1.0M $4.85M 2017 $0.2M $0.2M Total $24.45M $15.0M $39.65M
PageLoomex.ca 68 of 136 AIRPORT LAND DEVELOPMENT
• 24 Aerospace businesses on site with a growing supply chain in the Community • “Shovel Ready” serviced lots with streamlined building process • Partnerships with Research, Development, and Educational Institutions
PageLoomex.ca 69 of 136 PARTNERS IN EDUCATION
• Seneca College
• Trent University
• Fleming College
• Holy Cross Catholic Secondary School (Aerospace co-op program)
PageLoomex.ca 70 of 136 2017 STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN
• Business Objectives • Economic Impact Study • Future Role in Southern Ontario Airport Network • General Aviation Growth • Passenger Activity • Development Plan – Including recently acquired land, commercial, general aviation • Strategic development program 5 to 20 years
PageLoomex.ca 71 of 136 GROWTH IN ECONOMIC IMPACT
• Add slides from other presentations.
PageLoomex.ca 72 of 136 AIRPORT ROLE
• General Aviation • Maintenance Repair and Overhaul • Aerospace Manufacturing • Leisure and Executive Charter Markets • Research and Development • Economic Driver for the Region – Currently approximately 535 employees on the airport
PageLoomex.ca 73 of 136 THE LOOMEX GROUP
• Add slides from other presentations.
PageLoomex.ca 74 of 136 FLYING COLOURS CORPORATION
• Add slides from other presentations.
A World Class MRO PageLoomex.ca 75 of 136 PETERBOROUGH AIRPORT
• Add slides from other presentations.
PageLoomex.ca 76 of 136 AIRCRAFT MOVEMENTS
2008 2013 2018 2019 15,600 30,160 46,000 44,500
PageLoomex.ca 77 of 136 MIX OF TRAFFIC
PageLoomex.ca 78 of 136 NIAGARA REGION AIRPORTS
PageLoomex.ca 79 of 136 NIAGARA REGION AIRPORTS
• Located in St. Catharines and Welland • Municipal airports financially supported by three surrounding municipalities • Niagara Region agreed to Support in Principle adopting sole-responsibility for operations and governance
Taken from the Niagara PageLoomex.ca 80 of 136 District Airport website NIAGARA REGION AIRPORTS
Why they want to regionalize: • Transportation for those in the region and tourists • Contribution to economic health and growth • Eligibility for ACAP with scheduled service • Investment to reach the airport’s full potential
Taken from the Niagara PageLoomex.ca 81 of 136 District Airport website LAKE SIMCOE REGIONAL AIRPORT
PageLoomex.ca 82 of 136 LAKE SIMCOE REGIONAL AIRPORT
• 1991 – partnership with the City of Barrie, City of Orillia and the Township of Oro- Medonte • 1993 – Runway to 5000’ • 2011 – Runway to 6000’ • 2014 – County of Simcoe partnered • 2020 – County of Simcoe Taken from the Lake majority ownership at 90%, Simcoe Regional Airport City of Barrie at 10% website • The airport is a full-service regional airport facility
PageLoomex.ca 83 of 136 LAKE SIMCOE REGIONAL AIRPORT
Why the County acquired the shares: • Support business development activities for the region • Capitalize on future opportunities to help drive economic prosperity • Create jobs • Enhance transportation options
Taken from the Lake Simcoe Regional Airport website
PageLoomex.ca 84 of 136 LAKE SIMCOE REGIONAL AIRPORT
• Airport is set for rapid expansion • Ontario government has given $1.5 million in funding towards airport expansion, including runway expansion • New charter flights planned from the airport
Taken from the Lake Simcoe Regional Airport website PageLoomex.ca 85 of 136 REGION OF WATERLOO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
PageLoomex.ca 86 of 136 REGION OF WATERLOO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
• In 1996, the Region of Waterloo took ownership of the airport • In 2000 a 20-year airport master plan was approved and began implementation • The airport now has 25 businesses on site and employment for 300 people with a $90 million Taken from the Region of economic impact to the region Waterloo International Airport website
PageLoomex.ca 87 of 136 REGION OF WATERLOO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
• The Airport is operated by the Region, which recognizes it as a strategic economic asset
Taken from the Region of Waterloo International Airport website
PageLoomex.ca 88 of 136 MONT-JOLI AIRPORT
PageLoomex.ca 89 of 136 MONT-JOLI AIRPORT
• 2005 - intermunicipal board was introduced created by the region's communities • The intermunicipal board owns the airport • One of the largest regional airports in eastern Quebec
Taken from the Mont-Joli Airport website PageLoomex.ca 90 of 136 MONT-JOLI AIRPORT
• Is a major transportation facility that supports the region's economic development • Facilitates business and leisure travel • The board focuses on active collaboration with regional development initiatives
Taken from the Mont-Joli PageLoomex.ca 91 of 136 Airport website MUSKOKA AIRPORT
PageLoomex.ca 92 of 136 MUSKOKA AIRPORT
• Key piece of infrastructure for the District of Muskoka • Plays a critical economic and social role in the region • Provides vital connectivity for the District for: ▪ Business ▪ Tourism ▪ Medical services ▪ Agricultural services ▪ Forest monitoring / firefighting
Taken from the Muskoka Airport website PageLoomex.ca 93 of 136 MUSKOKA AIRPORT
• There are six municipalities that contribute to the airport • The airport contributes over $40 million annually to the Muskoka economy
Taken from the Muskoka Airport website PageLoomex.ca 94 of 136 WHY REGIONALIZE?
PageLoomex.ca 95 of 136 BENEFITS OF REGIONALIZING
• Transportation ▪ Facilitation as a transportation hub for goods, tourism, business travel, commercial growth ▪ For travel both within and external to the region ▪ For residents, visitors, and businesses ▪ Medical services ▪ Enhancing options across the region
Taken from the Wiarton Keppel International Airport website PageLoomex.ca 96 of 136 BENEFITS OF REGIONALIZING
• Economic Development ▪ Can attract new businesses and improve region’s ability to interact with a larger market ▪ Potential uses for the airport and economic benefits ▪ Consideration of existing assets, and their potential with further investment ▪ Collaboration with regional development initiatives
Taken from the Wiarton Keppel International Airport website PageLoomex.ca 97 of 136 BENEFITS OF REGIONALIZING
• Economic health ▪ Land assets can be leveraged to support on-site airport-related development and employment opportunities ▪ Allows for business development opportunities throughout the region ▪ Capitalizes on future opportunities to drive economic prosperity
Taken from the Wiarton Keppel International Airport Facebook page PageLoomex.ca 98 of 136 BENEFITS OF REGIONALIZING
• Airport-specific ▪ Growth in air traffic ▪ Potential opportunity to become a member of the Southern Ontario Airport Network (SOAN) ▪ With passenger increase could allow eligibility for Airport Capital Assistance Program (ACAP) funding ▪ Potential charter operations
Taken from the Wiarton Keppel International Airport Facebook page PageLoomex.ca 99 of 136 POTENTIAL CHARTER SERVICES
• Round trip flights from the • Easy & hassle-free service airport
Taken from bstvacation.ca Page Loomex.ca100 of 136 TIMELINES/NEXT STEPS
• Next steps of this plan include: ▪ Feasibility Study for Regionalizing ▪ Creation of a plan to move forward ▪ Master Plan Development ▪ Implementation of the plan
• The timeline surrounding this process would be approximately 24 months
Page Loomex.ca101 of 136 QUESTIONS? THANK YOU
Page Loomex.ca102 of 136 CONTACT US
925-550 Airport Road, Peterborough ON
705.775.5022 [email protected] www.loomex.ca
Page 103 of 136 Brittany Drury
From: Alison Hepburn
Hello Brittany,
I saw the article in The Sun Times about the public meeting on the Wiarton‐Keppel airport set for late November. In the article, it mentioned that written correspondence could be submitted to you in advance.
I'm not sure if the feedback I had shared with Mr. Burley later last yea has already been raised to the council members (please see feedback in thread below), however I wanted to reiterate my feelings on how much opportunity and value I believe the airport brings not only to Georgian Bluffs & Wiarton but to the entire area. I also want to emak it clear that I think additional investment into the airport by other municipalities and levels government is absolutely reasonable and necessary given the opportunity that this airport brings and the current fiscal limitations of a small municipality such as Georgian Bluffs.
I fully support further investment into the Wiarton‐Keppel airport. It's time we all come together to help it realize its full potential by moving it forward to be our area's regional airport.
Please let me know if you require anything else for me in order for my thoughts to be considered.
Thanks, Alison
From: Alison Hepburn Sent: October 14, 2019 6:09 PM To: Burley, Dwight
Thank you so much!
Alison
From: Burley, Dwight
Alison thanks for the great letter,I will pass this on to council and staff . DKB
Dwight Burley Mayor
1 Page 104 of 136 Township of Georgian Bluffs Grey Country Councillor
On Oct 14, 2019, at 5:55 PM, Alison Hepburn wrote:
Hi Mr. Burley,
I am writing you today to provide feedback on the Fly GTA Airlines flight service that has been running between Toronto Island and the Wiarton‐Keppel airports.
A little bit about me: I am born & raised in Wiarton, studying then working full‐time in downtown Toronto for the last 15 years. Wiarton still is and will forever be my home, and as a result I have spent countless hours travelling between. Over the years, I have relied primarily upon the Greyhound bus, or more recently GoTransit to Barrie & a ride with family, to get back home. With the Greyhound service reductions to/from Owen Sound over the years and the limited range of GoTransit, neither are ideal options.
Earlier in August and again this weekend, I had the privilege and the pleasure to travel up to the Wiarton‐Keppel International Airport via Fly GTA Airlines. Every single interaction I had with staff at the Wiarton airport was incredibly positive, and the experience flying in and out was fantastic. I can honestly say that Wiarton‐Keppel is my favourite airport! Additionally, my experience with Fly GTA Airlines has been equally positive; great pilots, nice aircraft, and quick & easy flights. And the fact that the flight time is only about 40 minutes is pretty unbelievable. It really is an amazing service!!
I highly recommend this to everyone I can, and really hope that enough interest has been demonstrated to keep this amazing service going beyond the initial trial period. I think this service is a great opportunity for the people of Georgian Bluffs and area, non‐locals that occasionally work in the area (i.e. businesses such as Bruce Power, etc.), locals that work down in the GTA, and for tourists.
I'd love to see this service thrive, and really hope this is the case in the years to come. I know one thing for sure... as long as this service is offered, I am going to be loyally travelling to/from Wiarton‐Keppel International Airport! Hopefully I'll get to continue to fly through Wiarton throughout the remainder of the year and for many more years to come!
Thanks for bringing this service to the area, and for your time!
Alison Hepburn
To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. Virus-free. www.avast.com
2 Page 105 of 136 Page 106 of 136 Brittany Drury
From: Barbara Gray
To Whom it May Concern,
We would like to add our voices to those that have grave concerns over the costs to Georgian Bluffs residents regarding the Wiarton Keppel Airport.
We fundamentally oppose the continuation of financial support to the airplane company that provides flights to and from the airport in Toronto. This flight appeals to a very small proportion of individuals who already have the capacity to purchase a flight. Georgian Bluffs Council should not be expecting residents of the municipality, many of whom are on fixed incomes, to financially support a company that provides a service to so few.
We also disagree with Georgian Bluffs being the sole owner of an airport that seems to be providing benefits solely to the Municipalities of Wiarton and The Bruce Peninsula.
Any concerns regarding medical air transport are handled by the provincial Air Ambulance system, whether it is a road side pick up by helicopter or Paramedic transfer to the GBHSOS for transfer south.
Regards, Barbara Gray Brendan Mulroy 104 Carney Str, OS, (Georgian Bluffs)
1 Page 107 of 136 Keppel Airport Meeting – November 24, 2020 5 pm Submission from Bob and Susan Porter
- We suggest the Airport be sold to the Bruce Trail Association, Conservation Authority or some similar some branch of the government that deals with tourism or land conservation. The reasons follow.
1. Airports are expensive businesses to operate and are seldom, if ever, money making operations. Georgian Bluffs cannot afford to subsidize the airport at the expense of the regular work that needs to be maintained in the township, fixing roads, snowplowing etc.
2. While the idea of having a local airport may be appealing the logistics of it do not make sense, financially or otherwise. This area does not need to encourage more tourists to visit, the Peninsula is already overcapacity in that regard. How many people are aware that we, the taxpayers, guaranteed payment for a minimum number of seats on the flights to and from Toronto? That means if there were not at least four seats taken on each flight, the taxpayers paid for those empty seats.
3. Why, after spending $600,000 to buy out South Bruce Peninsula, is the township now looking for another partner? One of the stated goals of the purchase was to have single ownership. Georgian Bluffs cannot afford another partner based on the dollars spent in the above transaction. The Federal Government felt they did not have the tax-base to support this airport, and sold it off for $1. Why would you expect Georgian Bluffs could afford it on its own? And where did the $600,000 figure come from to start with?
4. Georgian Bluffs budget information from the internet indicates the actual cost to operate the airport in 2019 was close to $512,000, well over the $400,000 that was budgeted. In addition a payment of $73,000 was made to bring the outstanding loan for the airport down to $330, 000 as of December 2019. We don’t believe the township can continue to ask the taxpayers to support this expense.
5. Since Georgian Bluffs bought the South Bruce Peninsula share of the ownership of the airport in 2015 we notice more and more roads have been posted with ‘Road Not Maintained by the Municipality’. Where we live the roads to the North, East and West of us have all been posted as such. Prior to the airport purchase they were open and maintained, and some had been so for over 100 years. After a meeting in May 2018 we were told the road to the west of us would be under-brushed, but this still has not been completed.
6. If the airport land is all still under the jurisdiction of the Niagara Escarpment Commission development for any other purpose is very doubtful. The rules on land use in areas within the Niagara Escarpment Commission scope are very prohibitive. If the airport does not succeed as an airport it will become quite a large waste of our resources.
7. We realize the airport is used on occasion for emergency medical transfers, however an airport is not necessary for this to happen. The construction of a helipad for emergency use would be a much better use of our limited resources.
8. The airport does not provide any benefit to the majority of the taxpaying population and should be sold. Let’s remove the expense and perhaps recover the $600,000 originally spent.
Page 108 of 136 Brittany Drury
From: [email protected] on behalf of Bob Clendinning
Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Completed
In response for public input in regards to the Airport discussion I wish to submit the following. The airport has been a sinkhole for Township money forever and Wiarton did well for themselves to dump their share on us. The Township does not have the deep pockets required to be sinking in the hundreds of thousands of dollars yearly into this money pit. I agree with those on Council who wish to involve either Grey or Grey/Bruce County Council. I would suggest that the Township give either Grey or a Grey/Bruce County combination the airport. Let them pay for the upgrades and repairs required and charge them property taxes. They have the deeper pockets required to have a Regional Airport. The Township would soon recoup the value of the property just by not sinking in more and more money into the repairs and by collecting the property taxes. The Township could then reallocate those savings into other infrastructure projects or keep the line on property taxes.
Thank You
Bob Clendinning Georgian Bluffs
‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ Origin: https://www.georgianbluffs.ca/Modules/contact/search.aspx?s=H8XiWjfxHbX43xQYC5lA5HzE0QeQuAleQuAl ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐
This email was sent to you by Bob Clendinning
1 Page 109 of 136 Brittany Drury
From: Brian Porter
Dear Ms Drury
With respect to the future of the airport.
Here are my thoughts.
I think too much money has been wasted for many years on studies so any further studies costing thousands of dollars is a waste of taxpayer money. We never see any significant benefits from these studies. We are just lining the pockets of consultants.
I think the main benefit of the airport is the air ambulance and fixed wing plane landing capabilities and the weather station.
I do not think the Municipality has the resources to get anything of significance going with the airport as exhibited by the last few years since it was purchased. So I feel it is better to sell the airport to a corporation who has the backing of investors who may be able to develop the airport lands for residential development etc.
With the resources generated from the sale it would be nice to see a water filtration plant built for Georgian Bluffs residents and which would facilitate further development. The taxpayer then would get some relief from the high water rates as we would not be paying South Bruce for their infrastructure etc.
We need someone to buy the airport who knows how to get things going like in Cobble Beach. A group that can navigate and has the financial resources to get this done.
We need to move forward then treading water for more decades.
This could create more jobs for area residents and more taxes if lands can be developed. Our future is dependent on such actions.
Carol Porter Georgian Bluffs
1 Page 110 of 136 Brittany Drury
From: Colin Dyke
Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Completed
> Hello Brittany, below are my comments for the upcoming meeting on Nov 24 th concerning the airport. > > The Wiarton‐Kepple Airport is a most miss understood asset . Saying it is just an airport like other small airports doesn't describe the assets the airport has or its potential for the future. The airport is one of the few "certified" airports in Southern Ontario. What does the mean ? It means that commercial aircraft can fly into Wiarton from International departure locations where that would not be possible to other locations such as Owen Sound Billy Bishop or Collingwood etc. Company Standard Operating Procedures often only allow their aircraft to fly into "certified" airports. Certified airports are held to a high operating standard not found at other airports. The airport also offers a VOR and GPS approach. What does that matter ? Again very few airports in Southern Ontario offer that feature. It means that the airport is accessible to aircraft in low weather conditions that no other airport within a large distance has . Having customs available, a restaurant on field , lodging within walking distance , professional airport staff all make the airport an incredible asset. > > The advent of electric small passenger aircraft coming in 2023 in the 10 passenger range will change the way we travel . 60%+ of current cost of operating aircraft is fuel today. This will change dramatically with electric aircraft making the Toronto ‐Wiarton route economical. Uber Air Taxi is coming . These aircraft still need runways and airports. With all the migration of folks escaping Toronto to the area the air service back and forth to Toronto , Hamilton, London etc will be a huge pull for the area with the airport as it is a "certified" airport. Regularly scheduled flight can only use "certified" airports. > > Used business aircraft sales are up 71% in the US with the decline in "Spoke and Hub " routes. This is also happening in Canada as we have seen with WestJet and AirCanada abandoning routes . Recently AC dropped its Kingston Pearson flights. All this means that regional airports are going to become more important than ever to the economic well being of the region with business and private aircraft use increasing dramatically. > > The Wiarton‐Keppel is an incredible asset for the future of the region. Its a "use it or loose it" asset. If it is downgraded it will be almost impossible to get back . > > > Colin Dyke > > 613‐246‐2785 > >
1 Page 111 of 136 Brittany Drury Clerk, Township of Georgian Bluffs 177964 Grey Road 18, R.R. #3 Owen Sound, ON. N4K 5N5 Re: Airport Presentation Dear Ms. Drury,
Thank you for providing an opportunity for public and stakeholder input into future possibilities for the Wiarton Keppel International Airport.
As members of a previous airport committee, we came to know the facility and its operation. Through discussions with members of the public and potential stakeholders within the region, it became clear to us that the airport has the potential to become a critical regional asset. In this regard, please find outlined below some thoughts/ideas that are presented for your consideration.
To begin, the following is a recap of the facilities at the airport and the present and potential services they offer:
It is the only locally accessible IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) airport that can provide lower weather minima criteria, allowing for a more reliable ability to provide critical business services such as “just in time inventory shipments”, employee transfer and relocation services, including emergency response to a nuclear accident/incident at Bruce Power.
More capability for medivac transfers in poor weather.
A certified airport with a 150-foot-wide by 5000 foot runway with room for expansion, which will allow greater ability to meet the ever increasing demand for larger aircraft for domestic and international business and personal travel.
A potential hub for OPP helicopter operations.
Canada Customs clearance services.
Nav Canada weather services.
A base for Search and Rescue (SAR) operations to be carried out from both for Canadian Forces SAR aircraft and CASARA resources. A recreational facility for local residential use and for local pilots to fly from. A local point for community gatherings and events.
Page 112 of 136 A destination for school field trips, scouts, cubs and Air Cadets. A potential educational facility link to Georgian College to offer aviation-
related curriculum such as Aero Engine, Airframe Technology, Air Traffic Control for the region, including our local indigenous communities. Aircraft maintenance and flight school possibilities. Hundreds of acres of developable land on the 820-acre property. Economic development on a regional basis is becoming increasingly critical today and Grey-Bruce has been moving in this direction in significant ways. The question now is how can the region partner further with our collective municipalities, post secondary institutions, First Nation communities, National Parks, private sector, etc., to create synergistic regional economic opportunities. The airport has the potential to be an important player in moving forward.
A critical area that still requires further development is a transportation network that services the needs of the various sectors within the region. Developing a 'vision' for the airport that can be a part of addressing these on a regional basis is important.
There is currently an ever-increasing number of tourists coming to the area. Given that there are many international visitors who are having a significant interest in the whole region, regional tourism 'packages' could possibly be provided for some overseas flights. The airport could serve as a 'hub' for these that would give opportunities to visit the many Grey-Bruce naturally significant areas. There would also be opportunities for other airline providers to utilize the 'hub' in providing excursions to other locations as part of the 'package'.
Other considerations:
The large increase in home sales in the counties as a result of the urban transfer to rural Ontario, indicates a need to provide for future growth in the area in many aspects, especially transportation facilities.
High tech workforce working from home...need for transport to metro home office.
Marine school...attendees from around the world.
Page 113 of 136 The latest Provincial funding to the area such as the $26.4 million to build the new Kincardine Senior School, the $29.4 million last year for Meaford and the funding for the new Markdale Hospital is a sure indication that the province recognizes the potential and future growth of the counties.
It is also important to note the following comments that have were made at the Oct. 20 special meeting:
“Trent Gervais of the Loomex Group highlighted other airports that have seen success since becoming regional facilities, including in Peterborough, Simcoe County and Niagara.
Grey County senior economic development officer Steve Furness participated in last week’s special meeting where he said staff in his department are “great believers” in the potential of the airport, but a plan is needed that can be articulated to potential investors.
“We think there is a huge benefit, and of course I think if the benefits are regional then that would only make sense to manage it that way,” said Furness.”
In conclusion, the present global pandemic has changed in significant ways how we live and work and has created an environment that will certainly alter business strategic planning in the various economic sectors in moving forward. This new economic reality will be important to consider in any planning for the future of the airport.
The airport facility has been sitting as a municipal asset for far too long... the time has come for it to finally achieve a regional designation status!!
Thank you for your consideration of the above and best of luck as you move forward in your discussions with the municipalities and present and potential stakeholders.
With respect,
Dave Summerton Allenford Don Brough Wiarton
Page 114 of 136 Brittany Drury
From: MANDENO
Follow Up Flag: Flag for follow up Flag Status: Completed
Georgian Bluffs mayor and council members
Att’n Brittany Drury
Re; Nov. 24, 2020. Wiarton Keppel International Airpot Public Meeting, As a long time taxpayer of Georgian Bluffs I would like to add my perspective on the Wiarton‐Keppel International (WKI) airport situation. Please include the following correspondence for consideration at the meeting.
Since Georgian Bluffs took over the sole ownership of the Wiarton Keppel International Airport the taxpayers have encountered significant costs with no real business plan or direction in place to operate the facility on its own merit.
In order to try and keep this from being too wordy I’m going to put my summary in point form.
2014 / 2015; Georgian Bluffs paid $600,000 to take over sole ownership of the WKI.airport assets and liabilities.
2015; A few months after GB’ assumes ownership Deputy Mayor Dwight Burley (at the time) announces that the airport needs to upgrade the runway and lighting deficiencies and proceed with these repairs / upgrades in a timely manner or face losing the airports International status. The estimated costs would be between $5,000,000 to $8,000,000. That was 5 years ago and I don’t believe all the work is completed currently.
2015; runway repairs needed ASAP. some planes had received damage to the landing gear.
2016; two couples representing COPA were on CFOS radio station open line to discuss the merits of the WKI airport. After saying what a nice facility this was the host asked them if they would be agreeable to paying a user fee to help support the finances of the airport to which their answer was a definitive NO. They flew to the WKI from Buttonville, area, had a vehicle parked at WKI and then drove up to their summer home in the Miller Lake area and went back and forth a few times during the summer. Other than purchasing a little AV gas their contributions towards the WKI operating costs were minimal. (parked their vehicle for free)
2017: any news related to the airport indicated they were still exploring options and putting a plan together. Meanwhile the taxpayers are picking up the cost over runs.
2018: the taxpayers were subsidizing $0.10 / litre of aviation fuel. This must have been a ploy to attract planes to fly in for bargain fuel and make it appear that the airport was truly a going concern.
Not sure if this is still going on. 2019 / ongoing: An airport manager was hired.
1 Page 115 of 136 Next a chartered aircraft company was hired to provide a commuter service between WKI airport and the Toronto Island airport a few days per week. An agreement was put in place that if not enough seats were sold then the township of GB would pick up the cost to ensure that the set passenger quota was met This resulted in more costs to the taxpayers.
The purpose of the above recap was to highlight that the WKI airport has been operating without an operational plan, a fixed budget or an oversight committee since GB became its sole owner and the taxpayers are paying the price. (to the tune of $550,000 (estimated) in 2019). I have not seen the operating deficits for previous years.
There is no shortage of developers, county tourism groups, the pilots association, tourists, politicians and others who say that WKI airport is quite an asset, these groups need to step up, commit and provide the finances to operate the facility for the future.
I’m sure that with the canvassing that is going on at present that these groups will be well represented at the November 24, 2020 public meeting, I certainly hope they bring their check books and not more empty words
Myself and I believe a large number of GB taxpayers believe that the time has come when our tax dollars are spent on services that will benefit “all” the residents / taxpayers. It’s time that the WKI airport operate on a user pay system supplemented by donations from these other promotional groups.
The fact is that over 95% of GB residents/ ratepayers will never utilize the WKI airport either because they can’t afford to own and operate an airplane or have no interest in owning one.
In contrast 95% of the GB ratepayers rely on septic systems, the bio digester is the environmentally friendly method to deal with the pump out sludge however the bio digester has been running at an annual $100,000 deficit because they have been unable to get all the septic tank pumping contractors to utilize the bio digester. The latest news I heard is that it will be or has already has been shut down.
To put this in perspective how can we support an airport and not a bio digester !
I would ask the councillors to consider the taxpayers when making the decision on how to proceed with the operation of the WKI airport.
Thank You, Fred Mandeno
Sent from my iPad
2 Page 116 of 136 Date: November 19, 2020
To: Brittany Drury, Clerk Township of Georgian Bluffs
From: Peter Ceponis
Re: Public Meeting – Wiarton Keppel International Airport held November 24, 2020
The purpose of this correspondence is not to reiterate the many indisputable benefits of the airport, but rather to express full support for the plan that has been put forth by Loomex regarding the future of Wiarton Keppel International Airport. The Loomex report is very thorough and clearly demonstrates the potential growth and fiscal opportunities that WKIA can bring to the region.
I fully agree that the airport should be financially supported by the region. The fact is, that WKIA has been serving the region for many years and, as such, the counties of Grey and Bruce should be contributing financially to the costs of operating and improving the airport.
This plan is essential to the future of the airport and, if managed correctly, can represent long term sustainable benefits for the community. In order to effectively implement this plan, an oversight committee is required to oversee the growth and management of the airport.
In the event that regional support for the airport does not manifest, or if agreement becomes a lengthy process, WKIA can begin generating revenues by charging fees to residents and businesses of neighboring towns for use of the airport. Currently the entire region makes use of WKIA at no cost and should be charged accordingly for usage.
In the short term, there are opportunities to heighten interest in WKIA within the business community. Some of the current conditions at WKIA are causing stagnation and creating barriers for growth and need to be addressed. For example, lack of funding for improvements and repairs deter possible business prospects. Additionally, restrictive clauses in the current lease agreements are preventing similar type businesses from operating at the airport. In order for any airport to grow and succeed it must allow for the possibility of multiple restaurants, maintenance facilities, charter operations, flight schools etc. Category exclusivity in this situation is hindering progress.
In closing, it is important to note that we are the stewards of this facility and it is our responsibility to foster growth and development of Wiarton Keppel International Airport for future generations.
Page 117 of 136 Brittany Drury
From: Rob McLeese
Cobble Beach is very supportive of a regional airport at Wiarton Keppel airport as it is important to facilitate local travel to enable business and pleasure connections.
Rob
From: Brittany Drury
Hi Rob,
As a valued member of the community, it may be beneficial for Council to note your support or opposition to the airport facility. Simply a recommendation.
If you would not like to do this virtually, correspondence will absolutely suffice. To simply observe the meeting, please direct your attention to the Township YouTube channel. The livestream will ‘go live’ at 5:00 p.m. on November 24, 2020.
Brittany Drury Clerk Township of Georgian Bluffs 177964 Grey Road 18, R.R. #3., Owen Sound, Ontario, N4K 5N5 P: 519-376-2729 | bdrury@georgianbluffs. ca | Find us: www.georgianbluffs.ca
1 Page 118 of 136 Brittany Drury
Georgian Bluffs Council,
Re My comments regarding Wiarton Keppel Airport
In 1995 Wiarton, Keppel, and Amabel Township decided to take over the management of the airport with a vision to make it a profitable enterprise for their taxpayers. For 20 years the municipalities shared the expenses and tried implementing plans to make it a viable operation. We all know their vision didn't work. In 2015 South Bruce was tired of wasting taxpayers' money on a lame duck and wanted out. Our Georgian Bluffs Council paid South Bruce $ 600,000.00 for their stake in the airport. The council at the time said they were going to give it a few more years to become profitable and if it didn't become profitable the property would be sold as agricultural land which is worth more than the $600,000.00 the municipality paid. The airport property has been let go so long now I doubt very much it could be used for agriculture without spending thousands & thousands of dollars to rehabilitate the property back to agricultural land. Quoted to me by then‐mayor Allan Barfoot "We got a good deal". The council hinted things will be different now that Georgian Bluffs is the sole owner and in complete control of the airport's destiny. Five years have passed since Georgian Bluffs took over sole ownership of the airport and all that has really changed is that instead of two municipalities sharing the expenses of the airport Georgian Bluffs taxpayers are now shouldering all the costs. WHY !!!! Operational costs to run this airport is a drop in the bucket compared to the upgrade costs associated with bringing this airport up to government airport standards. Our council is still beating the drum on their pipe dream that this albatross is going to fly. During the last 25 years, our local municipalities have spent hundreds of thousands of dollars unsuccessfully trying to make the airport and property profitable for the taxpayers. Face the fact council, it hasn't worked and you tried. Now our Council is again asking for input from the public on how to make the airport profitable? My suggestion is the council might have better luck buying Lotto tickets and use the money won to finance the airport. If the winnings after a year won't finance the airport sell it. How many more years does the taxpayer have to endure our council's financial torture on this matter? If this operation was a private enterprise it would have been closed or bankrupt years ago. Council has been looking for the publics' suggestions and partners for this white elephant for years, with not much luck. The municipality has yet to have any solid response or financial commitment from the municipalities of the region or from Grey & Bruce Counties for this so‐called regional airport solely financed by Georgian Bluffs taxpayers. Area municipal leaders all think it is beneficial to have the airport but nobody wants to step up to the plate with the hundreds of thousands of dollars let alone the millions of dollars in financial assistance the airport needs to make it profitable and look after the needed repairs to the runway and lighting. It is all lip service. Without paying customers the airport is dead in the water. The last twenty‐five years have not produced enough paying customers to even show a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel for this airport. Personally, I can't see that ever‐ changing. Our geographic location allows the airport to only draw customers from the south nobody is living to the north in Georgian Bay or Lake Huron. We have a very limited population and area to draw customers from. Somebody isn't going to drive an hour north to the Wiarton Airport to book a flight from Wiarton that you would have to change planes to fly somewhere internationally. These people will drive south the 1 1/2 to 2 hrs. or so and book a direct international flight out of Person Airport We also don't have a big drawn to make people want to come here by plane. I think those are some of the problems the airport faces. My question to the council is why have a public meeting when the council doesn't know who the financial players are? From what I understand there has been no formal presentation as of yet to the surrounding municipalities, both counties, or applying for provincial and federal grants. I think the council is putting the cart before the horse. You need to know the players, establish the budget they are willing to invest in with an agreed‐upon vision. This has not been done in the last 25 years. Why has this important step not been taken?
1 Page 119 of 136 Council keeps listening to the management company that runs the airport telling the council what a money‐ making business the airport can be. Why wouldn't they tell the council that, because they are the only ones making any money on the airport? They don't want to lose their gravy train. Meanwhile, our council keeps pushing their pet project at the expense of the municipalities' taxpayers. Same old same old. It is time for the council to move on and stop wasting the taxpayer's money. Sell it and try to recoup some of the hundreds of thousands of the taxpayer's dollars that have been spent the last 25 years on this WHITE ELEPHANT. I feel the council is flogging a dead horse. Use the money from the airport building infrastructure for the municipality so all the ratepayers will benefit.
Another municipal drain is the Biodigester that needs to be also addressed.
Thank you for your time.
Tom Briggs 267 Balmy Beach Road, Georgian Bluffs
2 Page 120 of 136 Brittany Drury
From: Carol Barfoot Sent: July 3, 2020 2:41 PM To: Brittany Drury Subject: Fwd: Air Port Subsidy
Just cleaning out my mail box, Not sure if I forwarded this to you to put with stuff to be discussed at public information meeting about the airport. Thanx
Please note my new email address [email protected]
Councillor Carol Barfoot Township of Georgian Bluffs
Begin forwarded message:
From: Woody Simmons
Hello Carol:
I sent this to Georgian Bluffs and used your name in the E mail so I thought that I would also send it to you.
Could you please forward this concern to the Mayor and council. I live in Georgian Bluffs and have been following the air port news since it was purchased a few years ago. I would like to say that I 100 % agree with Carol Barfoot and the others that outlined there concerns in last Fridays ( 2/7/20 ) sun times. I for one do not support wasting any more tax payers money on this site. I am a firm believer that if a company cannot make it on there own then trying to make it profitable on the backs of the tax payer should not be done. The Bio Digester is another project that should be seriously looked at as it also has yet to turn a profit.
Thanks in advance for passing this on to the mayor and the rest of council.
Woody Simmons......
1 Page 121 of 136 Brittany Drury
From: Woody Simmons
Hello:
This E mail is in reference to the notice that was in the Sun Times regarding feed back for the November 24 2020 meeting on the Airport. As GB taxpayers we would like to state for the meeting that we do not support making anymore; and / or any subsidy's to try and keep people using the Airport. We do not think that tax payers money should be spent on making flights attractive for people to use the airport. If it cannot make a profit on it's own then it should be sold, shut down or given back to the government.
Thanks for submitting this opinion for us at the meeting.
Woody & Nancy Simmons
317504 Hwy 6‐10
Owen Sound, Ontario
N4K 5N6
1 Page 122 of 136 Presentation to the Township of Georgian Bluffs Wiarton Keppel International Airport (WKIA)
Mayor Burley, Deputy Mayor Carleton, Council Members, Presenters, and Ladies and Gentlemen of the General Public
I am presuming the audience for this presentation are, those for the airport, those who want to be persuaded to be for or against, and those against. Full disclosure, COPA (CANADIAN OWNERS AND PILOTS ASSOCIATION) members are for the Airport.
On behalf of the members of COPA Flight 68, based out of the Wiarton Keppel International Airport, (WKIA) I would like to take this time to share some of our thoughts and opinions on the status of the airport and some potential improvements for the future. I would like to begin with a brief history of who we are as a group and our history with WKIA. The Canadian Owners and Pilots Association represents roughly 16,000 Canadian Members from 200 regional and local chapters who all share a similar passion for aviation. COPA’s mission statement reads “To Advance, Promote, and Preserve the Canadian Freedom to Fly”. COPA Flight 68 has been a local chapter of COPA National at the airport since March 4, 1998. Our mission statement at Flight 68 is simply “To diligently promote aviation in our area, and the Wiarton Keppel International Airport (CYVV).” COPA Flight 68 is a local non‐profit volunteer organization based at WKIA that operates with funds generated via member dues and fly‐in events such as the annual Air and Auto Extravaganza. Our funds are used to promote aviation at WKIA through events such as COPA for Kids, which provides free local flights to youths ages 8 to 17 (with over 1800 kids flown to date out of WKIA), the creation of the Eileen Vollick Memorial Garden, tending the front Terminal flower pots, and furbishing the visiting pilot lounge. Over the years, our group has donated countless volunteer hours (12000+) to both promote the airport to the public and to the aviation community alike. In 2019, COPA flight 68 donated a state‐of‐the‐art defibrillator to the airport, which can be found in the main foyer of the WKIA terminal building. It goes without saying that COPA Flight 68 unabashedly stands behind the Wiarton Keppel International Airport. It is often easy to ignore the value that a certified airport provides to the local community. Many local residents can relate to stories of the value of WKIA whether through friends and family who benefited from a timely flight with Ornge, or the welcome arrival or departure of a relative being transported by Medivac or more recently the location of a local lost child found through an OPP search and rescue mission. There is no denying that WKIA is an essential link in all of these time sensitive operations. In the future there will be many uncertainties, as shown with the emergence of Covid 19, we will potentially face and it is advantageous for us to have a local and well‐maintained airport transportation hub.
The following are suggestions brought forward from the membership of COPA Flight 68:
Page 123 of 136 COPA 68 AGREES THAT A LONG TERM 20 YEAR PLAN SHOULD BE DRAWN UP THAT WOULD ADDRESS IMMEDIATE NEEDS LEADING UP TO FUTURE RECOMMENDATIONS AS LAID OUT IN THEIR PRESENTATION
Wiarton Keppel International Airport needs a short‐ and long‐term maintenance and capital investment plan. New hangars for rent for aircraft parking and potential aviation businesses like UPS, FEDEX. As the saying goes “BUILD THEM AND THEY WILL COME”
COPA 68 AGREES THAT AN AMALGAMATION OF BRUCE AND GREY COUNTIES OWNERSHIP WOULD BE A BENEFIT IN GOVERNING AND OPERATING THE AIRPORT
We also believe that a Regional Airport Board should be instituted to oversee operations by Local Management and Local operating staff. We feel that Airport direct management require a defined amount of autonomy to operate the airport in a professional matter.
REPAIRS AND UPGRADES TO THE 3456’ CROSS RUNWAY 11/29 TO ATTRACT SMALL AND MEDIUM ARCRAFT WHEN WINDS MAKE THE USE OF RUNWAY 5/23 PROHIBITIVE
This is useful in aircraft emergencies and for OPP, Coast Guard, Military and itinerant and Wiarton based general aviation aircraft.
SPECIAL AIR BASE FOR COMBINED AVIATION EMERGENCY SERVICES (OPP, ORNGE, MNR, COAST GUARD) TO INCLUDE A HANGAR FOR FIRST LINE MAINTENANCE, WINTER STAGING, DISPATCH COMMUNICATION, AND AMBULANCE BAY FOR WINTER TRANSFERS.
1. Highway 6 is one of the worst highways in Ontario for fatal accidents caused by high speed, distracted driving, drunk driving, stunt driving (17 arrests 10 days July 2020), and other causes. There is 100 km of 2 lane highway in a very remote area which could be blocked by heavy summer traffic or bad weather accessible only by air. To date we have been lucky not to have experienced a mass casualty accident that would have required simultaneous helicopter and fixed wing evacuation from scene to hospitals. A fatal accident approximately 2 years ago required 3 medevac helicopters at the scene and a highway closure
2. With amalgamation of the OPP detachments in Wiarton it may be an ideal place for a permanent fixed wing patrol aircraft. Maybe we need a GO FUND ME program for an additional aircraft.
3. As the summers are becoming dryer Fire Fighting aircraft close by in case of forest fires in the region will be required as happened with the Parry Sound area July 18 – October 31 2018 when 28,077 acres of forest lands burned, and summer of 1908 bush fire which destroyed most of Bruce Peninsula (from north half of Amabel, Albemarle, Eastnor Twp, Lindsay, south half of St Edmunds and from Lake Huron across to Georgian Bay), and Mallory Beach house fire this past summer which threatened the wooded escarpment and required 7 fire trucks.
4. Peninsula Doctors rely on getting seriously sick and time sensitive patients to a major hospital centre such as London, Kitchener, and Toronto. American medevac aircraft use Wiarton Keppel International Airport in all weather conditions repatriating sick and injured citizens or as fuel stops for northern destinations.
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5. Wiarton Keppel International Airport has been, and is used, by Canadian patients needing Medevac transport from the United States.
6. Provides a base for the Canadian Coast Guard and the Military to stage aircraft and equipment in case of accidents or rescue on the waters of Georgian Bay and Lake Huron, and to provide communication for boaters and shipping on the same waters. The OPP helicopter use Wiarton to stage a fixed wing aircraft for summer road patrol and a helicopter for search and rescue. The military use Wiarton for helicopter and C‐130 Hercules training missions and in coordination with Meaford training Base
INCLUSION OF THE WIARTON KEPPEL INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AS PART OF REGIONAL EMERGENCY PLANNING AT THE MUNICIPAL AND COUNTY LEVEL
1. If one has looked back at the major disaster which occurred as 9/11 in 2001, they will find the Gander Airport in Newfoundland played a considerable part by allowing aircraft and passengers to take shelter while the authorities in the US sorted out the problems and to return the air traffic infrastructure back to normal. While this airport is no longer a major aviation hub it was a very important facility to aircraft caught in an emergency. Wiarton is one of the few airports in Southern Ontario outside of the GTA and the Golden Horse shoe that has the capability to land and provide service to a large airliner such as a Boeing 737 or a Lockheed C‐130 military aircraft which could possibly be used in our current predicament with COVID‐19
2. Provides a base for the Canadian Coast Guard and the Military to stage aircraft and equipment in case of accidents or rescue on the waters of Georgian Bay and Lake Huron, and to provide communication for boaters and shipping on the same waters. The OPP helicopter use Wiarton to stage a fixed wing aircraft for summer road patrol and a helicopter for search and rescue. The military use Wiarton for helicopter and C‐130 Hercules training missions and in coordination with Meaford training Base
Example: OPP This past summer the OPP fixed wing aircraft has been responsible for approx. 200 charges of stunt driving during weekends and week days when available. The OPP helicopter was responsible for the recovery of a lost 6yr old boy lost in the Sauble area. That helicopter and the fixed wing aircraft both stage from Wiarton Keppel International Airport.
ADDITIONAL HANGARS FOR COMMERCIAL AND GENERAL AVIATION AIRCRAFT, GENERAL AVIATION FLYING TRAINING SCHOOLS, AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE FACILITIES, ITINERANT TRAFFIC
1. With Canadian Winters, and the amount of snowfall in the Peninsula area, pilots are in need of covered parking which would allow year‐round operation of their aircraft. It would also allow for small but important maintenance tasks to be completed in a safe environment. “BUILD THEM AND THEY WILL COME”
A NEW TERMINAL BUILDING TO SERVICE UPS, FEDEX, PUROLATOR AND PASSENGER MOVEMENTS
Page 125 of 136 1. The terminal could have pilot lounge for itinerant pilots and airport staff during winter operations
2. Wiarton Keppel International Airport services Ontario businesses, such as the Bruce Nuclear plant in the past. Small local industries like Caframo have used the airport if attractive facilities were available. Other business such as Cobble Beach, Griffin Island, Home Depot and Lowes have used Wiarton and may use it in future if proper terminal facilities are available.
3. The Nav Canada weather office provides 24 hour 7 days per week to provide world wide and local weather observations used by commercial and general aviation pilots, marine operations and local highways maintenance crews, local radio stations and the general public who may require weather information.
TRAINING FACILITIES CONSISTING OF COMBINED CLASSROOMS AND SHOPS
Canada has a need for trained personnel in all aspects of aviation; Commercial and General Aviation Pilots, Aircraft Mechanics, and Airport operations. This could be aligned with local Georgian College or as a remote for Seneca College aviation programs
ANNUAL “AIRPORT DAY” AND OTHER PUBLIC FUNCTIONS
1. London, Hamilton, Peterborough, CFB Trenton, Edenvale airports to name a few have and hold functions such as Air Shows, Fly‐ins, and other aviation activities which give the airports a chance to show case the benefits of airports.
2. COPA 68 has run in the past, and plan to in future, the Air and Auto Extravaganza which was well attended by local citizens. This event has been growing steadily for the last 5 years. Every year we hold a COPA for Kids Day to attract a number of kids 8‐17 into aviation. COPA Flight 68 also holds annual potluck lunches for Flying Farmers and Ninety‐Nines women pilots. To date over 1800 kids have experienced a free flight over the Grey Bruce area. In 2020 we were planning to support the Canadian National Aerobatic Championships to be held at Wiarton Keppel International Airport. Covid19 caused its cancellation. The Cobble Beach Concours d’Elegance has been staging the annual tour event at Wiarton Keppel International Airport and it has been growing in past years. Activities like these need continued support and expansion.
RENOVATED RESTAURANT
1. Airport Staff, visiting pilots, airport tenants, airport enthusiasts, Emergency workers, and locals need to eat whether for sustenance or pleasure. We need an upgrade, eventually with better cooking facilities, better electrical wiring. An included lounge where business persons can have quick meetings. 2. Airport non‐contract staff should operate this facility with dedicated reliable operating times. 3. The restaurant and the terminal should be under one roof to allow joint airport staff operation. 4. Restore a kitchenette in the existing terminal to service staff, itinerants, and tenants. 5. An airport restaurant is an attraction as well as an asset which will contribute to airport income, but should not be expected to make a profit
Page 126 of 136 AIRPORT NAME
1. It was suggested by a number of our group that the Airport name be changed to recognize a person born in the region who had a considerable influence in aviation history in the way that Billy Bishop in his own way influenced aviation. The name suggested was
Eileen Vollick International Airport
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS FROM A TAXPAYERS’ POINT OF VIEW
1. In 2016 a fund‐raising drive “Runway to the World” was started to provide for rehabilitation and extension of the existing runway, rehabilitation of runway lighting, and to support future capital investment. COPA members were part of this committee. Restarting this project would help to obtain taxpayers buy‐in and possibly help develop publicly used facilities on the Airport property
2. In simplistic terms the combined total population of Grey and Bruce Counties who could benefit from an effective regional Wiarton Keppel International Airport is 161,977 people representing approximately 88,743 tax payers (dwellings). The current loan liability on the airport is approx $330,000 or $3.72 per tax payer on a one‐time levy or $0.68 annually. The current annual expense to operate the airport is approx $562,000 or $6.33 per tax payer. The tax payer portion of the annual expenses is $402,650 or $4.52 per taxpayer. This does not take into consideration the amount of benefit feeding into the surrounding area from tourism, business, emergency, and personal airport use.
CONSIDER. For the one quarter the cost of a McDonalds meal from each taxpayer annually (ie; every household) everyone in Grey and Bruce Counties will have access to a viable international airport.
3. COPA suggests that an amount per taxpayer be listed on each taxpayers’ annual tax bill showing their share of the airports expense and capital upgrades as identified in paragraph 1.
Finally:
We believe that improving Airport facilities, amenities, and usage that this airport can be a benefit to all but it will require that all tax payers must be convinced by Grey and Bruce Counties and Municipal governments that this is a necessary investment.
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We will not achieve all of this in one or two or twenty years but if we don’t start now, we will not have achieved anything by the time we really need it.
“BUILD THEM AND THEY WILL COME”
Thank‐You COPA Flight 68 ‐ WKIA
Page 128 of 136 From: To: Brittany Drury Subject: Airport Decision Date: November 20, 2020 12:56:16 PM
Hi there to everyone!
This my response as to the directions we might consider for this owned entity.
You will recall that my last appearance before you was October 2019 and my opinion has not changed in the interim. I do not have my feet stuck in clay and while I am leaning towards disposal, one should always keep their options open and consider what may appear as new circumstances. Having said that there are a few other items that have come to mind that need airing at this moment of decision.
A. The financial liability for the runway refurbishment and other appurtenances has had little mention for some time. Remembered amounts run from $ 5--8 millions which were evidenced
somewhere about 5+ years ago. Clearly, the Federal government has been letting this matter slide but know that this can’t go on for ever. Their liability here is huge as is ours and it would be
difficult to impossible to try to defend an action over the delays.
B. We both carry a further joint liability, if there was an accident that encompassed the loss of life? Do we carry sufficient liability insurance to protect us from this horror riddle? Further, is it
under our current insurer or have we had to purchase coverage from specialized sources? Some funding information would be appreciated.
C. The notion of a regional facility being embraced seems to be a poisoned pool. I cannot see Bruce County being involved as it is doubtful that they would entertain the financial obligations
for their constituents.
D. Finally, I am sea as to what my benefit is, as well as the other citizens of the Bluffs? And so that old latin phrase raises its head. Qui Bono—Qui Bono—Qui Bono. "Who benefits."
To whom do the benefits accrue. Perhaps we have more suitable places to spend our tax dollars on what could be more beneficial?
Many thanks for the opportunity to address you again,
BILL WILSON
Page 129 of 136 Council members November 22, 2020
I have been wanting to write to you, for awhile, about the airport concerns I have had including ongoing issues. I do live behind the airport and understand that some of these issues would not bother others not as close. I will also not bring others, in the area, into my concerns as they are hesitant to say anything.
I found several weeks ago that there was a significant amount of air traffic, day and night, at the airport.
I was also disturbed over the number of inconsiderate people who flew, low, directly over our home as well. The most upsetting was a small helicopter that flew around our house 3 times and was so low you could almost make them out. It was a gray colour but could not see any markings. As soon as I got my camera out it took off to the SW.
I will mention that I do understand the emergency craft and how they sometimes come in at different levels . That is not my issue.
I have sent emails to the manager at the airport about these so called flyers who seem to do things , not just during the day but mostly in the evenings when the office is closed. I also find it disturbing that there are only a few people, from this company, working there and that they are not always manning the office.
Now I am very aware that even though there is no one around to monitor aircraft coming and going, there is no record as to what their actual fly pattern is. They can log when they approach and land, roughly, and when they apparently take off. The problem here is that what the log says can only be verified to a point as to what it said and not show any other deviations in their flights.
Adding to this is the fact the I find it irritating that they are using one of the air landings directly behind us for take offs .It seems that when they take off towards the West they make sharp left turns which end up almost and at times, flying over our house or property. I know , again, that this is not a requirement, to turn that sharp, unless there is some sort of busy clogged up airspace.
Which leads me to asking the question over and over. Why can they not use the other main landing strip, being the one that faces SW which goes over Concession 21? I believe it is used and is opened. They keep it cleared and lighted. The manager once said that it was closed and or it depends on the winds. Again, I understand the wind issues,etc. but don’t tell me that that’s the case in all take offs. I do live here and know full well the wind issues and would say that’s a poor excuse. If more planes took off on that landing strip we would not have near the concerns over these issues we have experienced.
Now with that said I have serious questions about the airport.
We call it an International Airport well known to aviation and others. If that’s the case then I would like to know why there is not more security at the airport? Anyone can come on the property almost any time and go almost anywhere without being stopped or asked. I know because I have.
I have asked these questions to the manager but with no reply.
Page 130 of 136 Back to logs. Who knows who fly’s into the airport dealing in illegal things, smuggling, immigration, etc.? People can’t be blind to that because it is happening and should be seriously looked at.
If we are an international airport then I think we need better control and security as to who is coming into our community let alone the yaw hos who have no respect for the locals living in this area.
Some of counsel and other locals want to make this airport a main center for tourism, commerce, etc.
Please understand that I respect their position.
That’s not to say I am against looking at ideas but I see the cost Georgian Bluffs tax payers are paying and will be paying for future expansions, etc. It seems to me that we are paying for an airport that will be servicing between Wiarton and Tobermory. There are lots of ideas about what people want to see done but at what cost. Wiarton is a small town with little attraction . There are people who probably don’t want to see it grow ,etc. but that’s another topic for another time. And what I hear about a possible hotel on the old Foodland property would change the whole water front.
So why are we paying for these services which really don’t benefit us. Would not Wiarton and other communities north be responsible for these expenses? Just my own thoughts.
Trusting that I have explained myself without any misunderstandings.
Thank you for your time in this matter.
Paul Cash
441263 Concession 21, Georgian Bluffs
Page 131 of 136 Council of the Township of Georgian Bluffs Georgian Bluffs, On
Re: Wiarton Keppel International Airport Public Meeting
To Council Members and Attendees;
Regarding the Wiarton Keppel International Airport, as a landowner in Georgian Bluffs since 1998 and a homeowner and resident here since the early 2000’s, I have some pertinent comments regarding the airport, specifically the air traffic it generates.
Having noted the economic and financial concerns of certain council members, I would like to add to those concerns, the environmental and health impacts of the airport, specifically due to the increased air traffic.
It seems that more air traffic is a desired goal by most. I submit that the already increased air traffic, certainly more than it was years ago, has degraded my enjoyment of my property and my quality of life significantly in several ways.
During the good weather of the summer months, when outdoor activities would seem to be the most pleasurable, low flying small aircraft frequently ply their way directly over my house. Apart from the noise which is very
Page 132 of 136 disconcerting, (being louder and of longer duration than rifle shots from hunters) there is a distinct loss of privacy. Further, after even the briefest of Google searches, one has to wonder what effects this air traffic is having on air quality.
The frequency of the droning air craft, seemingly bearing down on my house, has been very distressing. Having considered moving due to the increased low-flying aircraft, my next concern is that property values could well be degraded due to the noise pollution if not the emissions.
At one time on the township website, Georgian Bluffs was touted as a place with excellent air quality and beautiful natural settings. That is exactly why I settled here some 20 years ago. I do understand that economic growth is desirable, but certainly not at any cost. An economy that degrades the best of our natural resources, and a healthy environment as well, is surely not beneficial to the largest segment of the population.
Surely the ever increasing volume of traffic on the highways has been ample indication that our highways well serve to deliver ever growing numbers of tourists and seasonal residents to the Wiarton area and points north.
Let us make our highways safer. Let us develop our campgrounds, and Georgian Bay facilities in a sustainable, enlightened way, in order to preserve the environment which sustains the physical health and mental well-being of us all.
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Respectfully submitted,
Katherine Ellis, 079681 Zion Church Road, Georgian Bluffs, On N0H 2T0
Page 134 of 136 From: To: Brittany Drury Subject: Wiartob Keppel International Airport Date: November 19, 2020 9:30:19 PM
Good evening Brittany,
Please find attached a letter from the nursing staff at the Wiarton hospital regarding the potential status of the airport. Please consider our concerns when making such a serious and impactful decision.
Sincerely, Sarah Poirier, a student nurse
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