Circulation List [List]

Town of Bracebridge Council Correspondence

To: Council Members Chief Administrative Officer, J. Sisson

Copy: Chief Librarian, C. Rodney Director of Culture & Recreation, L. Broere Assistant Director of Development Services, D. Rahkola Director of Economic Development, C. Kelley Director of Public Works, W. Schmid Fire Chief, M. Medley Treasurer, C. MacLellan

Media

From: Lori McDonald, Clerk

Date: February 6, 2013

CIRCULATION:

Item # Description SECTION “A” – STAFF INFORMATION MEMOS: A1 Nil. SECTION “B” – GENERAL CORRESPONDENCE: Letter from John R. Williams, Mayor of the City of Quinte West, dated January 29, 2013, regarding the impacts that the announced changes to the operation of the waterway will have B1 on our collective local economies and the small businesses that rely on boating traffic within the system for their continued viability. Communication from the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), dated January 30, B2 2013, regarding what Premier-Designate Kathleen Wynne has said so far about her priorities. Communication from the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), dated January 31, B3 2013 – Watch File. Communication from the Ministry of Community and Social Services, regarding New B4 Accessibility Standards for the Design of Public Spaces added to the Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation (IASR). Letter from Ellen Frood, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity Muskoka, dated February 1, B5 2013, regarding desire to construct a semi-detached home at 63 Wellington Street, Bracebridge. Communication from the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), dated February 5, B6 2013, regarding Social Assistance Transformation in Ontario – Next Steps. Communication from The Village Square – Vankoughnet, dated February 2013 – The Village

Voice.

CITY OF QUINTE WEST P.O. Box 490 Trenton, Ontario, KBV 5R6

Office ofthe Mayor TEL: (613) 392-2841 John R. Williams FAX: (613) 392-5608

January 29, 2013

Mayor Graydon Smith Town of Bracebridge 1000 Taylor court Bracebridge, ON P1 L 1R6

Dear Mayor Smith;

I am writing this letter to inform municipalities, members of the federal and provincial levels of government, economic development corporations, tourist associations, chamber of commerce organizations and various stakeholder groups along the Trent-Severn Waterway who are concerned with the impacts that the announced changes to the operation of the waterway will have on our collective local economies and the small businesses that rely on boating traffic within the system for their continued viability.

The affected municipalities and private business owners have been working together over the past number of months to develop solutions. One of the proposed solutions is the development of a new governance model for the operation of the Trent-Severn Waterway that will address local needs as well as the financial issues identified by the Federal Government.

To focus on these issues and determine how to best move forward in presenting these 1 alternatives, a meeting was held on January 24 h at Quinte West City Hall with MP Rick Norlock, Northumberland-Quinte West, MP Daryl Kramp, Prince Edward-Hastings, MP Barry Devolin, Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock, MP Dean Del Mastro, Peterborough, MP Bruce Stanton, Simcoe North, Marc Ackert, Ontario Waterway Cruises Inc. and myself. Discussions were held regarding reduced hours of operation, proposed fee increases and the development of an alternative governance model for the waterway. As a result of the meeting, a document has been prepared outlining the 2013 season of operation and the new schedule which provides a reduced level of service. It also includes information regarding a new alternative fee proposal in relation to the proposal identified by Parks Canada. These are initial thoughts that were gathered at the meeting and your input would be appreciated and encouraged. Please send your comments/suggestions by email to; [email protected]. 2

A further meeting is being scheduled in Ottawa with the intent to submit a proposed fee structure and proposed level of service to Park Canada prior to the mid-February consultation deadline.

Please consider the information attached and we thank you in advance for your consideration and support.

Sincerely,

CITY OF QUINTE WEST

John R. Williams, Mayor 2013 Fee Proposal This proposal is based on 4 considerations. Operational Service Model of 2012 revisited for 2013 and beyond.

- The 2013 season fee structure remains unchanged from 2012 - across the board, lockage, moorage and utilities. - The 2014 season increase of 10% on all canal "user fees" - Starting in 2015 implement an ongoing "cpi" (3%) to move forward.

In keeping with the guidelines of the "User Fee Act", there is a precondition for the Parks Canada Agency to" ... explain to clients clearly how the user fee is determined ..... ". So far the Agency has not disentangled the ongoing issue surrounding the costs within their operational budget which are directly accountable to the service provided to the "boaters". Consideration must be given to the year-round Watershed Management, seasonal day use visitation, and other Park activities which are embedded in their operational costs.

A second precondition of the "User Fee Act", requires the Agency" ... to establish standards which are comparable to those established by other countries with which a comparison is relevant. ... ". For this we draw attention to the 2013 Tolls, Passes and Permits on the Erie Canal (Upstate New York) -for a 25' recreational craft the seasonal pass is $50.00.

When reviewing fee proposals, accurate data does not exist within Parks Canada to validate traditional traffic patterns. They (Parks) have the data for total permits sold in each existing permit category as well as the boat count for every lockage performed. The missing data includes which pass holder was in the lock at any given time. Any conclusions respecting usage by pass type is merely speculation. We suggest an accurate "Point of Sale" system moving forward to allow such tracking, which can assist future fee needs.

Moorage rates show a large jump in the Parks model partly due to the new category of "daytime" mooring. The Parks proposed "daytime" charge is not acceptable. The negative impact of this fee on the local economies far outweighs any benefit derived. That being said the management of collecting such a fee with the diminished workforce defies logic.

Presently within the Parks regulations there is a 24 hour maximum moorage at busy sites, and 48 hour maximum at all other sites. This prevents clients from purchasing seasonal passes to simply use a facility of the Park as a permanent home for the summer. All lock sites have designated wall space for lock transit purposes and separate wall area for mooring.

Commercial seasonal rates and houseboat rates have not been established in the new Parks model. Our proposal keeps the traditional Commercial rates in relation with the increases we proposed for the recreational users.

The "fees" and "hours of operation" are to be linked for the ongoing "user fee" discussions. It is not acceptable to consider a diminished model and then move forward with a substantial fee increase. The 2013 Scheduled lock service as outlined in the Ministerial announcement of December 1 dramatically changes the service delivery model. Below are a few notes on this. 2013 SCHEDULED LOCK SERVICE

ON THE TRENT-SEVERN WATERWAY

The 2013 operational schedule for the TSW was announced in a News Release from Minister Kent on December 1, 2012. The release received little attention as many Stakeholders believed the announcement of October 18 respecting the 2013 Season of Operation was the end of the story.

What changes are in the new schedule?

a) During the "peak" season June 21-Sept 2, an average of 2 hours have been cut from regular service daily. The implications of this change will be most significant at the "high" use stations."High" use in terms of vessel traffic and land base visitation stressors. b) During the spring and fall season groups of locks will be operated by a roaming crew who will travel by truck with the "boaters" at a preset time once daily for transit through their area. 2 crews will be used per area described -one doing upbound transit and one doing downbound transit. The unattended stations in the group will be closed and locked to the public while workers are not present. This modified service will be delivered once a day beginning at a preset time- 10:00 am. This start time will vary depending on distance needed to travel by operating staff. After travelling the described section the "boater" then waits until the following day for the next crew to begin their section. The sections of canal with this type of service are ... 1) Lock 1 to 6 2) Lock 7 to12 3) Lock 13 to 18 4) Lock 19 to 21- still to be determined how this section will operate? 5) Lock 22 to 26 6) Lock 37 to 41 7) Murray Canal swing bridges?? c) Numerous variables come to light within this model which don't seem to have been addressed. Sections which have "swing bridges" before or after the scheduled areas? Are the swing bridges operated by the roaming crew? Once a day? Within operating hours? Are there reasonable available areas for vessels to safely wait for passage at these sites? d) What happens to a boater who breaks down during a group transit? e) What if more vessels are waiting than they can accommodate? f) How many vehicles used in transporting employees will be needed to make this model work? g) What crew operates the "once a day" lockage at Lindsay - do they travel from Bobcaygeon - thus leaving Bobcaygeon (busiest lock in district) closed while staff commute to Lindsay and back? h) How do "land based" users access closed locks? Bathrooms, drinking water, first aid?

This document is just a quick overview of the impact on the user base of the TSW. Both boater and land base visitors alike will be impacted by this reduced service level. When preparing fee proposals for the future, consider the reduced service model as part of the scenario. Proposal from Parks Canada

lockage

Proposed Product Description Fee (per foot) Single lock chamber One-way passage Low Elevation $0.60 through a Levell lock Shorter transit time (Approx. 15 min) Single of multi-lock chamber One-way passage Medium to high elevation $0.90 through a level 2 lock Longer transit time (15-45 min or more) Paper pass providing unlimited lock passages for the Six Day pass duration of 6 individual days. $7.20 (not necessary to be consecutive days) Self-adhesive pass adhered to vessel providing unlimited Seasonal Pass lock passages on all Parks Canada canals and waterways $15.00 for the entire season.

Mooring

Day Mooring (Fee per foot) Overnight Mooring (fee per foot) Pleasure Boaters $1.00 $2.00 Commercial Boaters $2.00 $4.00 Alternative Fee Proposal

lockage

2013 2014 Rate 2015 Rate Rate (10% incr.} (3% incr.} Per Foot Single Lock and Return $0.90 $0.99 $1.02 One Day $1.60 $1.76 $1.81 Transit one-way $4.65 $5.12 $5.27 Six Days $5.05 $5.56 $5.72 Seasonal $8.80 $9.68 $9.97 Seasonal (Rental House $13.10 $14.41 $14.84 Boats} Seasonal (Commercial} $28.80 $31.68 $32.63

Mooring

Overnight (includes day $0.90 $0.99 $1.02 mooring} Seasonal, Overnight $9.80 $10.78 $11.10 Seasonal (Commercial}, $16.60 $18.26 $18.81 Overnight

USER FEE COMPARISON

Example used- 25' power boat

Pass Type 2013 existing 2014 Parks Proposal 2014 Stakeholders Proposal

Single lock $22.50 return $30.00 return $24.75 return

1 day 40.00 not available 44.00 unlimited

6 day 126.25 180.00 139.00

Seasonal 220.00 375.00 242.00

Transit 116.25 not available 128.00

Moorage $22.50 $75.00 $24.75

Seasonal $245.00 not available $269.50 TO THE IMMEDIATE ATTENTION OF THE CLERK AND COUNCIL

January 30, 2013

Here's what Premier-Designate Kathleen Wynne has said so far about her priorities (A quick summary of sound bites this week and during the convention)

• Will stay the course on the economic plan to eliminate the deficit by 2017-18 and as part of her leadership campaign committed to restricting overall spending increases to 1% below GDP growth after 2017-18 until Ontario's debt-to-GDP ratio returns to 27% (the pre-recession 2007 level). (As provincial budget constraint responses continue to be identified, AMO remains firm that it will help government find efficiencies, but the upload Agreement we have with the government must not be delayed). • Wants to move forward to implement the Report of the Commission on Social Assistance Review which identified a large number of recommendations and she is asking for an implementation plan. (Improving how those in need receive services is a shared interest but from AMO's perspective, if service functions such as Ontario Disability Support Program are to be transferred to and integrated with Ontario Works, then the upload Agreement and full mitigation of any impacts on property taxpayers need to be part of any transfer agreement). • Solving gridlock in Greater Toronto Area/Hamilton region and other urban areas is about how best to do this in terms of revenue tools; if not; calls on federal government to work on a dedicated national transit fund. (AMO recognizes the need for transit funding mechanisms to get the most of the lifecycle of the current system while at the same time expanding systems to deal with current capacity and growth needs). • Will continue to build on other infrastructure investments (AMO has called for a dedicated roads and bridge fund and with the Province a joint framework for going forward was produced in 2012).

AMO will track any future commentary on priorities during the transition and the days going into the Throne Speech. (The Throne Speech can be expected shortly after the resumption of the Ontario Legislature which is likely to occur on February 19th). Our work on profiling key priorities, some of which include: changes to make arbitrators more accountable and transparent; looking ahead at municipal fiscal sustainability; changes to the Municipal Election Act before 2014; advocacy on infrastructure program design; impacts of source water protection; and how we can build more predictability into the land use planning and decision-making process.

In congratulating her, AMO President said that the Association acknowledges her strong belief in the role municipal government plays in making Ontario successful. From our experiences with her as former Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, in Transportation and as a Co-Chair of the AMO-Province Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) meetings, we know she wants ideas and will explore options and that this comes about from open and frank discussions. The MOU Table is a valuable pre-consultation tool and joint problem solving forum that we are confident members of her Cabinet will want to use more extensively.

Yesterday, Wynne rounded out her Transition Team. It is led by Monique Smith, former MPP and Cabinet member and includes:

• Tom Allison: Kathleen Wynne Campaign Manager • Arnold Chan: Vice President, Aboriginal Affairs and General Counsel, Xeneca Power Development Inc. and former political staff advisor • Bernadette Clement: Lawyer at the S.D.G Legal Clinic and former Cornwall City Councilor • David Crombie: Former Member of Parliament and Mayor of Toronto • Tony Dean: Former Secretary of the Cabinet and Clerk of the Executive Council • Don Drummond: Chair of the Commission on the Reform of Ontario's Public Services (Drummond Report) • Jan Innes: Vice President of Public Affairs of Rogers Media and former Executive Assistant to Premier David Peterson • Frances Lankin: Co-Chair of the Social Assistance Review Commission, former Ontario MPP (NDP) and former Cabinet Minister • Dr. Ben Levin: Canada Research Chair in Education Leadership and Policy at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education • Lyn Mcleod: Former Leader of the Ontario Liberal Party and former Cabinet Minister • Glen Murray: Former Minister of Research and Innovation and was Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities until resigning to run as a candidate • Elaine Todres: Former Deputy Minister and was involved in previous provincial public service 'transformation' • Angus Toulouse: Regional Chief of Ontario and from the Sagamok Anishinawbek First Nation and an elected member of the AFN Executive Committee • Greg Sorbara: Former Minister of Finance and former Ontario Liberal Party Campaign Co-Chair • Hari Suthan Subramaniam: Former Director of Policy and Legislative Affairs, Ministry of Economic Development and Trade • Maria Van Bommel: Former Member of Provincial Parliament, Lambton-Kent-Middlesex.

The swearing of Premier-Designate is to be sometime next week. We will keep members informed on a number of the Cabinet postings since municipal government is directly affected by so many Ministries as well as the broader community interests.

Contact: Monika Turner, AMO Director of Policy at [email protected] or 416-971-9856 ext. 318

PLEASE NOTE AMO Breaking News will be broadcast to the member municipality's council, administrator and clerk. Recipients of the AMO broadcasts are free to redistribute the AMO broadcasts to other municipal staff as required. We have decided to not add other staff to these broadcast lists in order to ensure accuracy and efficiency in the management of our various broadcast lists.

DISCLAIMER These are final versions of AMO documents. AMO assumes no responsibility for any discrepancies that may have been transmitted with the electronic version. The printed versions of the documents stand as the official record. AMO Watch File- January 31,2013 Page 1 of2

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Association of Municrpa.lities of Ontario Watch File January 31, 2013

In This Issue -2012 Ontario-AMO Joint Annual Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Statement. - Proposed changes to the Endangered Species Act implementation. - Straphangers author examines Urban Transit at the 2013 AMO Urban Symposium. - AMO AGM and Annual Conference registration now open. - Learn more about LAS Programs and Services at no cost 2013 regional sessions. -Ontario Government releases OMERS Governance Review Report. -Career opportunities with AMO, Niagara Region, OPS, and Housing Services Corporation.

Provincial Matters The joint MOU statement highlights the accomplishments made through the AMO-Ontario partnership table and also provides an overview of the expected 2013 areas for discussion.

The Ministry of Natural Resources is seeking input on its approaches to improving the implementation of the Endangered Species Act. Submissions to the Ministry are due by February 25, 2013.

Eye on AMO and LAS Events Straphangers author Taras Grescoe envisions a future with convenient, affordable and sustainable urban transportation. Grescoe presents his inside story on the world's transit systems at the 2013 AMO Urban Symposium, April18-19th, Novotel Mississauga. A finalist for the 2012 Writers Trust Weston Prize, this Toronto born Montreal resident offers his insight on how to reduce the damage of car-centric city planning. Space is limited, register today!

Take advantage of the early bird registration rates for the AMO AGM and Annual Conference now. Registration forms can be downloaded from our website for the Conference to be held August 18-21, 2013 at the Ottawa Convention Centre.

Learn how your municipality can leverage LAS' experience, programs and leadership to help you save money and do more for your municipality. Plan to attend one of our no-cost regional seminars. Register today!

MEPCO- The Municipal Employer Pension Centre of Ontario Reviewer Tony Dean has issued his report on OMERS Governance, which confirms that the current two-Board structure is working and also outlines specific actions to strengthen Plan governance. MEPCO's reaction to the Report is posted on the MEPCO website.

Career Opportunities Policy Intern- AMO. Assisting Senior Advisors and the Director of Policy, the successful candidate will support AMO's policy development process. Please apply in confidence by email to [email protected], by February 1, 2013.

Deputy Regional Clerk- Niagara Region. To explore this opportunity and apply online, click on 'Careers,' Job Opening ID: 9727. Closing date is February 7, 2013.

ADM, Policy and Dispute Resolution Services Division - Ontario Public Service. Location: 400

http://amo.informz.ca/AMO/archives/archive_276363.html 02/02/2013 AMO Watch File- January 31,2013 Page 2 of2

University Avenue, Toronto. Please apply online, by February 6, 2013, by visiting Ontario Careers and entering Job ID 50345 in the Job ID search field. Please follow the instructions to submit your application.

Policy Analyst- Ontario Public Service. Location: Toronto (Municipal Finance Policy Research Unit). Please apply online, by February 12, 2013, by visiting Ontario Careers and entering Job ID 49067 in the Job ID search field. Please follow the instructions to submit your application.

Policy Analyst- Ontario Public Service. Location: Toronto (Municipal Finance Policy Research Unit). Please apply online, by February 12, 2013, by visiting Ontario Careers and entering Job ID 49068 in the Job ID search field. Please follow the instructions to submit your application.

Chief Executive Officer- Housing Services Corporation (HSC). For a more detailed job description, please visit the HSC job board. Please send your cover letter and resume to [email protected] on or before February 19, 2013.

AboutAMO AMO is a non-profit organization representing almost all of Ontario's 444 municipal governments. AMO supports strong and effective municipal government in Ontario and promotes the value of municipal government as a vital and essential component of Ontario's and Canada's political system. Follow @AMOPolicy on Twitter!

AMO Contacts AMO Watch File Team Conferences/Events Policy and Funding Programs LAS Local Authority Services Limited MEPCO Municipal Employer Pension Centre of Ontario OMKN Ontario Municipal Knowledge Network Media Inquiries Tel: 416.729.5425 Municipal Wire. Career/Employment and Council Resolution Distributions

*Disclaimer: The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) is unable to provide any warranty regarding the accuracy or completeness of third-party submissions. Distribution of these items does not imply an endorsement of the views, information or services mentioned.

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http://amo.informz.ca/AMO/archives/archive_276363.html 02/02/2013 Ministry of Community Ministere des Services ('~ and Social Services sociaux et communautaires ::> Accessibility Directorate Direction gemerale de l'accessibilite tY Ontario of Ontario pour !'Ontario 6th Floor, Suite 601 a 6e etage, bureau 601 a 777 Bay Street 777, rue Bay Toronto ON M7A 2J4 Toronto (Ontario) M7A 2J4 New Accessibility Standards for the Design of Public Spaces added to the Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation (IASR)

On January 1, 2013, the Government of Ontario achieved another milestone in implementing the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA). The Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation (Ontario Regulation 191/11) was amended to include accessibility requirements for the Design of Public Spaces (Accessibility Standards for the Built Environment).

Beginning in 2015, public and private sector organizations will have to meet accessibility requirements when constructing and maintaining new or redeveloped elements of public spaces including:

• Recreational trails and beach access routes • Outdoor eating areas for public use • Outdoor play spaces (such as playgrounds) • Exterior paths of travel (such as walkways across parks or between buildings) • Accessible on- and off-street parking • Service counters and waiting areas

Organizations are not required to make changes to their public spaces. The standard only applies when organizations build new or make major changes to existing elements of public spaces.

The new requirements can be accessed on e-laws by following this link: www.e-laws.gov.on.ca/html/regs/english/elaws regs 110191 e.htm

For further information on the Accessibility Standard for the Design of Public Spaces, please visit ontario.ca/AccessON.

Accessibility Enhancements to the Ontario's Building Code

The Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH) is developing potential enhancements to current accessibility requirements in buildings. Public consultation on potential updates to accessibility requirements in the Ontario's Building Code is now underway. A consultation paper and details of the potential technical changes are available online. Stakeholders and the public have until March 1, 2013 to submit comments to MMAH. To review the public consultation document for the Ontario's Building Code visit: www.mah.gov.on.ca/Page10160.aspx

For further information on the Ontario's Building Code, contact the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 416-585-6666

Fax: 416-585-7532 Habitat for Humanity'"

February 1, 2013

John R. Sisson Chief Administrative Officer Town of Bracebridge 1000 Taylor Court Bracebridge, ON P1 L 1R6

Dear Mr. Sisson,

Further to our meeting of this date, this will confirm our desire to construct a semi-detached home at 63 Wellington Street, Bracebridge.

The two homes in Bracebridge will be the 15th and 16th constructed by Habitat Muskoka (three of which are already located in Bracebridge). Over 900 volunteers have helped out with our builds since 2003 and our homes currently house 14 families and a total of 34 children. Six of our homes were built for two-parent families and eight were constructed for single parent families. Our homes are an important response to the urgent need for affordable housing in the area.

In working with Town staff and after confirmation by both Dana Rahkola and Matt regarding by laws, I understand that there will be no by-law change required. As such we are working with staff to move forward with a build permit as quickly as possible.

On behalf of Habitat for Humanity Muskoka, I would respectfully ask the Town of Bracebridge to waive all fees associated with the build, including but not limited to the Build Permit Fee, Application Fee as well as a grant in lieu of the Town's portion of the Development Charges (and any others that may occur such as the consent and severance fees at time of sale of the homes).

We are excited to be returning to Bracebridge this year to build two homes. Please feel free to contact me with any questions you might have. I can be reached at 705-646-0106, ext. 6.

Sincerely,

Ellen Frood Executive Director Habitat for Humanity Muskoka TO THE IMMEDIATE ATTENTION OF THE CLERK AND COUNCIL

Date: February 5, 2013

Social Assistance Transformation in Ontario- Next Steps

Premier-Designate Kathleen Wynne has indicated her intention to move forward to implement the recommendations contained within the Report of the Commission for the Review of Social Assistance in Ontario.

AMO's President, Russ Powers, has corresponded with the Honourable John Milloy, the Minister of Community and Social Services, in regard to the shared provincial-municipal interest in transforming social assistance in Ontario. The President articulated AMO's desire to work with the government in order to improve outcomes for low-income Ontarians and persons with disabilities in our communities. There is much at stake, given the crucial role that income and employment support programs play to promote community health, reduce poverty and to enhance economic competitiveness.

Transforming social assistance promises many benefits. At the same time, it is also fraught with potential risks for municipalities. The recommendations to devolve provincial responsibility for the disability program to municipalities, along with a greater role in the delivery of employment supports, are significant. The recommendations require careful examination and consideration. We are open to new possibilities, but it needs to be under the right conditions with clear benefits for all, including municipal governments.

AMO believes social assistance transformation must adhere to the principles and commitments of the Provincial-Municipal Fiscal and Service Delivery Review (PMFSDR) agreement of 2008. It is vital to ensure that there are no new costs to municipalities or transference of financial exposure as a result. Also, the dialogue on transforming social assistance in Ontario must include efforts to further integrate the delivery of income support and employment services with other human and social service delivery.

Ontarians can only benefit from well planned changes that are adequately resourced and allow for sufficient local flexibility to enable local innovation and efficiency in the delivery of social assistance and employment services.

AMO believes that a strong, collaborative provincial-municipal partnership is needed to achieve the desired outcomes. Our common interest is to: design, plan and see the delivery of an efficient and effective service; simplify and consolidate arrangements where appropriate; and focus strongly on results. At the same time, recognizing this is done in a common operating context of fiscal and capacity pressures, so getting it right is paramount.

AMO is working closely with the Ontario Municipal Social Services Association (OMSSA) and alongside the City of Toronto to assess the recommendations and potential impacts to the current municipal service system manager structure as well as municipalities. Careful consideration of the recommendations of the Social Assistance Review Commission, the Drummond report, as well as other ideas from AMO, municipalities, District Social Service Administration Boards (DSSAB's) and the Ontario Municipal Social Services Association (OMSSA) are essential as we move forward to consider the transformation of social assistance in Ontario.

To view a copy of AMO's Breaking News (October 24, 2012) concerning the release of the report of the Social Assistance Review Commission, visit AMO's website at: http://www.amo.on.ca/wcm/AMO/AMO /AMOAdvocacy.aspx?page=2&issue=social%20services

To view a copy of AMO's Breaking News (January 18th, 2013) concerning the release of the "Welfare to Work" white paper by the Ontario PC Caucus, visit AMO's website at: http://www.amo.on.ca/WCM/AMO/AMO Content/PolicyUpdates/2013/0ntarioPCCaucusReleaseWelfaret oWorkWhitePaper.aspx To learn more about the Provincial-Municipal Fiscal Delivery Review (PMFSDR), visit AMO's website at: http://www.amo.on.ca/wcm/AMO/AMO /AMOAdvocacy.aspx?tag=pmfsdr

AMO is a non-profit organization representing almost all of Ontario's 444 municipal governments. AMO supports strong and effective municipal government in Ontario and promotes the value of municipal government as a vital and essential component of Ontario and Canada's political system.

Contact: Michael Jacek, Senior Advisor, [email protected] - 416.971.9856 ext. 329.

1198 VANKOUGHNBT ROAD Layout: Chris Varga 646-9613 645-7548 Send Submissions to [email protected]

~ 20 ~ 3 VANKOUGHNET CUP'f( NEW MINISTER IN CHARGE AT ST. DAVID'S 3 on 3 Shinney Tournament The Rev. George Vais recently was appointed to be in charge of St. David's Church in Saturday Feb 16th, starts at 9am Vankoughnet. In addition to conducting and arranging for the weekly Sunday worship, it Competitive and Family divisions was agreed that he would assume responsibility Teams ages 5 and up are for occasional programs and events for all ages. welcome to enter George was raised in Bracebridge where his 50/50 shootout competition father was the minister at Knox Church. He We can only fit 8 teams per division so studied at the former Waterloo College register ASAP! [University of Western Ontario], Knox College, Toronto and Presbyterian College, *Volunteers Needed* Montreal. He served congregations in Ontario and Manitoba. In 1987 he was awarded an CHILl & HOT DOG LUNCH AT VILLAGE honorary degree from Presbyterian College in SQUARE Montreal, and in 1994 he was elected Check out pictures, video and more from Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Canada during which time he and his wife Faith last years tourney at: www.vankoughnet.ne had the opportunity to visit ten different For more information or to register, contact countries. George and Faith live on Hwy 118 Chris Varga @ 646-9613 or [email protected] East on a property which they've had since 1960. The Village Square Board wishes to welcome our ~ -:;~ Mark Your Calendars! newest board member i~~- For A Spaghetti Dinner Matt Sitler, we believe r-- ..0 · March 9, 2013 Matt will be an asset in '' -~ ==F""'V At The Village Square the operation of The More Info in Villa uare. Next Month's Issue McCutcheon Bridge Meeting Ice Pilots Update Written by Michael Vlessides. Many community members came out to attend This is the story of the Television program a lot of the meeting updating the status of the new us are addicted to. Set in Yellowknife, North McCutcheon bridge project. A delegation West Territories, where the temperature representing the town of Bracebridge attended and participated in the presentation. These frequently goes to a chilly -40C, this story members included outlines the birth and continuing growth of Buffalo Airlines. Founded by Joe McBryan, this • Andrew Stacey - Engineering is a family company, with the leading character of Technologist Mickey the son. The author tells the story of the

11$ Barb McMurray - Oakley Ward Rampies who do so much of the work to keep the Councillor planes running and flying, the mechanics, the 411 John Sisson - Chief Administrative office staff, and of course Joe himself. Joe's Officer rough edge keeps everything else purring along. «~> Lori-Lynn Giaschi-Pacini - District Councillor The airplanes are old WW2 C-46 planes which

11$ Steven Clement - District Councillor flew during the war, and have now been • Rick Maloney - Macaulay Ward redesigned and rebuilt to fly the rugged land Councillor and Deputy Mayor North of 60. Because of their age many parts • Walt Schmid - Director of Public Works have to be manufactured on site in the Buffalo Councillor McMurray stated that it was a positive Hanger. meeting and residents offered many good questions. McMurray also indicated that credit In winter the planes are used to bring supplies to should be given to Andrew Stacey- Engineering areas with no roads, in summer many water Technologist, who worked very hard to get the boomers from Buffalo Airways are sent out to new bridge proposal much closer to what fight forest fires. residents wanted than the original town proposal. The author, one of the late editors of Up Here The bridge plan changes include keeping it to one Magazine, spent the better part of a year, living lane, eliminating the proposed pedestrian path, upgrading the deck from wood to asphalt and with and working with members of the staff of raising the rail height for safety. Buffalo Airways, to better understand why anyone would go that far to fly. What he An aesthetic proposal that was suggested by a discovered is that while many young folks may community member was changing the rail to graduate from flight schools there are a limited arched vs a flat rail. The representatives indicated they would consider this proposal. number of jobs available. So many go to places like Buffalo Airways. Work is hard, very hard, and All the architectural drawings displayed at the the temperatures can be brutal, but the chance to presentation will be posted and available for fly is the greatest challenge and reward they can viewing at the Village Square. find.

If you have any further questions about this This book will be available in our Vankoughnet project please contact Barb McMurray-Oakley library soon. Relax and enjoy one of the best Ward Councillor 645-3706. reads you will ever have BID EUCHRE at The Village Square Don't Feel Like Cooking? Wed. Feb 20, 2013 "Norm's Chip Wagon" 7:00 - 9:00PM Refreshments and prizes Serves up Hamburgers, $5 per person French Fries, Chicken Wings, Contact: Carolyn at 645-9767 Sausages and Top It All off with Homemade Onion Rings. LADIES' COFFEE Open Sat. & Sun 11am to 7pm February 1st, 2013 9am 2458 Hwy 118 East At the Villa e S uare Phone Orders Accepted 705-644-4403 EUCHRE at New at the Library The Village Square We have greatly expanded our.video February 1st, 2013 collection - how about celebrating the 7:00 - 10:00 PM 150th anniversary of Sherlo?k Holmes Refreshments and prizes by watching the movies! $5 per person Gary Denniss has written a fabulous Contact: Joyce 645-4145 book Historic Roads of Muskoka, and, yes, all the roads in

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