Central Almaguin Economic Development Association s1

Central Almaguin Economic Development Association

P.O. Box 1120 * Sundridge ON * P0A 1Z0 Phone (705) 384-5819 Fax (705) 384- 5892

Chair: Merlyn Snow: [email protected] Vice Chair: Ron Bennison: [email protected]

December 21, 2011 Village of Sundridge Municipal Office

Present: Sundridge - Elgin Schneider, Bill de Vries Strong – Merlyn Snow, John Newstead (left at 10:30am) South River – Les Mahon, Jim Coleman Machar – Ron Bennison

Absent: Doug Maeck Caroline Loiselle - Regional Advisor, Ministry of Health Promotion & Sport

Guests: Lisa Rogers – Healthy Almaguin Project Representative Karen Insley Stewart – Associate, Almaguin Highlands Ontario Inc. Ron Begin - FedNor Tara Hamilton – Ministry of Northern Development, Mines

Staff Present: Caitlin Unger, Recording Secretary

The meeting was called to order at 9:30 am by Chair Merlyn Snow, and the guests were welcomed.

General Discussion:

Lisa Rogers and Karen Insley Stewart opened the meeting with their presentation on Healthy Almaguin. They outlined the history of the group’s creation, common problems in the area, their current partnerships and their plans moving forward. Their main goal is to secure funding for healthy programming for two years and to promote current programs through marketing initiatives. Rogers handed out a grant proposal and a draft letter and resolution for support: Healthy Almaguin is asking for capital or in-kind support for 2012-2013 (monetary, policy support, capital). To apply for funding, the group must have 20% (capital, in-kind) of what they are asking for. If any Council is interested in reviewing the ACCESS 2009 Survey Results or Feasibility Study Report, let the Secretary know and she will contact Rogers for a copy. Concern was expressed regarding sustainability of programs and municipal financial contributions after the funding ends. Rogers explained that sustainability will be a part of the project from the start, and budget information will be provided to the municipalities when it is determined. Councils were asked to review the handouts and send a letter of support if interested. The committee felt the program is a real asset to the community, but would like clarity on affordable insurance and their website: www.healthy.almaguin.org

Rogers and Insley Stewart left the meeting at 10:05am. The Chair requested an agenda change: moving the appointment of Chair and Vice Chair to New Business.

Peter Bell attended to thank CAEDA for their support regarding the MTO billboard policy. He advised that the letter which includes a link to the new policy is actually the old policy. Bell will send a review of the new policy to the secretary once it is released. Elgin Schneider read a draft letter to the editor to respond to Vic Fideli regarding bush country and signage lobbying, the committee was in support for it to be submitted and copied to Mr. Fideli. Bell left the meeting at 10:36am.

Ron Begin shared that there has been discussion surrounding the grant and that it is still on the table. He reminded the committee that part of the funding should include consulting with a marketing expert for a brainstorming session to brand the area and to remain consistent. To close he described the Graphite Mine which is opening in Kearney. The mine will be employing approximately 70 people and the local Employment Office, under Donna Sedore, secured funding to train locals who may need work. Tara Hamilton shared she was pleased with the business breakfast turnouts and relationships there.

Resolution 2011-33 Moved by: Ron Bennison Seconded by: Bill de Vries Be it resolved that this committee does hereby approve the following expenses of $1527.95 for December 2011 and $40.05 for Secretary June-Dec 2011 Mileage, and hereby authorize the Secretary to issue cheques for the same. Carried

Correspondence:

A letter was read from the Township of Strong advising that they wish to withdraw Recording Secretary services from CAEDA as of January 31, 2012 and ask that another municipality provide the service. Strong will still handle finances if funding is secured.

A draft newspaper ad was received from Garry Radey to advertise for Directors for Friends of Mikisew. The ad was supported with an extended deadline but concern was raised over cost to advertise. The secretary was asked to contact Radey on getting a quote from the local newspapers before proceeding.

Adoption of Minutes: Resolution 2011-34 The minutes of the November 16, 2011 meeting were circulated. It was Moved by: Elgin Schneider Seconded by: Jim Coleman Be it resolved that this committee does hereby accept the minutes of November 16, 2011 as presented. Carried

New Business:

Schneider read draft resolutions regarding Highway 11 emergency turnarounds, building permits in unorganized Townships and buildings exempt from paying taxes. The committee was in agreement to proceed, Les Mahon suggested the Turnaround resolution also be sent to the OPP when passed.

Ron Bennison asked that Councils discuss the future of the Animal Shelter in the area. Marnie Wallace, who currently runs the shelter, will be closing her business in 3-6 months due to health issues. This will leave a huge void in the community so an alternative should be looked into.

Bill deVries shared that the next Steering Committee Meeting will take place January 26 th, 2012 at 7:30pm at the South River/Machar Arena. The new housing policy will be discussed so all Councils are encouraged to attend.

Resolution 2011-35 Moved by: Bill deVries Seconded by: Les Mahon Be it resolved that this committee does hereby appoint Ron Bennison as Chair for the 2012 term.

Resolution 2011-36 Moved by: Elgin Schneider Seconded by: Ron Bennison Be it resolved that this committee does hereby appoint Bill deVries as Vice Chair for the 2012 term. Carried

Adjournment: Resolution 2011-37 Moved by: Elgin Schneider Seconded by: Bill deVries That we now adjourn at 11:26 a.m. until the next regular meeting January 18, 2012 or at the call of the chair @ 9:30am at Township of Strong Office. Carried.

……………………………….. ………………………………………. Chair, Merlyn Snow Recording Secretary, Caitlin Unger