AGENDA - GENERAL/FINANCE COMMITTEE Wednesday, March 10, 2021
A Regular Meeting of the General/Finance Committee will be held on Wednesday, March 10, 2021, at 9:00 a.m., electronically from the Council Chambers, Municipal Offices, Port Carling, Ontario.
NOTICE: This meeting will be held ELECTRONICALLY from the Council Chambers, Municipal Office, Port Carling, Ontario, in accordance with section 238 of the Municipal Act, 2001.
As part of the Township’s response to stop the spread of COVID-19, the Municipal Office remains closed to the public until further notice.
Members of the public may observe the proceedings by accessing the live webcast at: https://www.youtube.com
Closed Session shall be conducted in the absence of the public and shall not be webcast or video recorded.
If the live webcast fails, the meeting recording will be posted at: https://muskokalakes.civicweb.net/Portal/
Public participation in this Electronic Meeting may occur through viewing the webcast and/or providing comment regarding specific agenda items at the following email address. Please ensure that the specific agenda item is identified in the subject line of your email. [email protected]
Following the publishing of this agenda, public comments (maximum 2 minutes on any agenda item) may be provided by registering with the Clerk or designate by emailing [email protected] by 9:00 a.m. on March 9, 2021. If registrations are received, the Clerk or designate will issue a Supplementary Agenda pursuant to the Council Procedure By-law. Meeting invitations will be issued to those who register. Page
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF SUPPLEMENTARY AGENDA
a. Chair to verbally acknowledge supplementary agenda, if required.
3. DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTEREST
4. INVITED DELEGATIONS Delegations to commence at 9:00 a.m.
a. Anne Haines, Account Manager, and Kaitlyn Potts, Account Support Co- 7 - 15 Ordinator, Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) Re: MPAC's 2020 Municipal Partnership Report. Presentation
5. PUBLIC WORKS (ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE) **
a. Verbal Presentation from the Director of Financial Services and the 16 - 21 Director of Public Works Re: Community Infrastructure Road Map. Presentation
b. Verbal status update from the Director of Public Works Re: 2021 Winter - Spring Water Levels.
6. CORPORATE SERVICES (FINANCE, ADMINISTRATION, HUMAN RESOURCES)**
a. Report from the Clerk Re: Proposed License Agreement - Hogarth - Roll 22 - 27 4-19-066. Report Appendix l
b. Report from the Director of Financial Services Re: Financial Update - 28 - 34 Preliminary year ended December 31, 2020. Report
7. COMMUNITY SERVICES (COMMUNITY, FIRE, PARKS AND TRAILS, LIBRARY)**
a. Minutes of the Public Library Board meeting held on December 15, 2020 35 - 41 and January 12, 2021. December Minutes January Minutes
b. Minutes of the Parks and Trails Committee meeting held on November 42 - 45 23, 2020. November Minutes
c. Report from the Fire Chief Re: Closure of Ontario Fire College, 46 - 48 Gravenhurst Campus. Report
d. Report from the Fire Chief Re: Emergency Public Alerting System. 49 - 50 Report
8. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND GRANTS (VISIONING, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, GRANTS)**
a. Minutes of the Economic Development and Grants Committee meeting 51 - 54 held on November 25, 2020. Minutes
9. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
a. Verbal report from Mayor Harding Re: District Municipal Modernization Committee - process and status update.
10. NEW BUSINESS
a. District Municipality of Muskoka Updates.
b. Community Events Update.
c. Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is 55 - 122 a matter of public record.
1. Perth County - Correspondence to the Premier of Ontario Re:
Page 2 of 122 significant impacts of current value assessments in Perth County.
2. Township of Asphodel-Norwood – Correspondence to the Province Re: requesting a deadline extension for the Community Safety & Well- Being (CSWB) Plan.
3. The Town of Gore Bay - Correspondence to the Municipality of Charlton and Dack Re: increased costs of municipal insurance.
4. City of Port Colborne - Correspondence to the Federal Minister of Health Re: unlicensed and unmonitored cannabis grow operations.
5. The Township of Terrace Bay - Correspondence to the Premier of Ontario Re: support of resolution from the Rainy River District Municipal Association regarding municipal taxation for railway rights-of-way.
6. Save the Ontario Fire College - Correspondence to the Township of Muskoka Lakes Re: closure of the Gravenhurst campus of the Ontario Fire College.
7. Township of Guelph/Eramosa - Correspondence to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Re: review of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and recommendations.
8. City of St. Catharines - Correspondence to the Premier of Ontario Re: Universal paid sick days in Ontario.
9. Township of Georgian Bay - Correspondence to the Municipality of Charleton and Dack Re: support of request to Province to address municipal insurance premiums.
10. Township of Conmee - Correspondence to the Premier of Ontario Re: amend the Municipal Act to prohibit individuals with a criminal record from being a candidate in a municipal election or an elected government official.
11. Township of Emo - Correspondence to the Township of South Stormont Re: support for resolution regarding re-opening of small business.
12. Association of Municipal Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario- Correspondence to Municipal Council Re: continue to invest in staff training budgets.
13. Township of Perry - Correspondence Re: Support for Town of Carleton Place resolution regarding Government of Ontario prioritize children and childcare as part of post pandemic recovery plan.
14. Township of Perry - Correspondence to the Premier of Ontario Re: Page 3 of 122 request to reverse decision to close the Ontario Fire College Campus in Gravenhurst.
15. Township of Perry - Correspondence to the Solicitor General Re: request to extend deadline for the Community Safety and Well- Being Plan.
16. Armstrong Strategy Group - Correspondence to Council Re: strengthening democratic institutions.
17. Township of The Archipelago - Correspondence to the Premier of Ontario Re: review the Municipal Elections Act.
18. Township of South Glengarry - Correspondence to the Premier of Ontario Re: support for use of Automatic Speed Enforcement by municipalities.
19. Township of South Glengarry - Correspondence to the Minister of Government and Consumer Services Re: support for Guelph/Eramosa resolution regarding review of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and recommendations.
20. Municipality of St. Charles - Correspondence to the Municipality of Tweed Re: support of resolution regarding cannabis production facilities.
21. Township of Tiny - Correspondence to the Association of Municipalities of Ontario Re: closure of the Ontario Fire College in Gravenhurst.
22. Township of South Frontenac - Correspondence to the Premier of Ontario Re: support for Municipality of Charlton and Dack and the Township of Larder Lake regarding Joint and Several Liability Insurance.
23. City of Port Colborne - Correspondence to the Premier of Ontario Re: closure of the Ontario Fire College.
24. Township of Strong - Correspondence to the Premier of Ontario Re: request to reverse decision to close the Ontario Fire College Campus in Gravenhurst.
25. Town of Mono - Correspondence to the Premier of Ontario Re: request to reverse decision to close the Ontario Fire College Campus in Gravenhurst.
26. Township of The Archipelago - Correspondence to the Premier of Ontario Re: support of the Town of Parry Sound resolution regarding request to reverse decision to close the Ontario Fire College Campus in Gravenhurst.
Page 4 of 122
27. Municipality of West Grey - Correspondence to the Premier of Ontario Re: support of Municipality of Grey Highlands resolution regarding request for Province to review seven recommendations of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario to investigate municipal insurance issues.
28. Norfolk County - Correspondence to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and the Minster of Agriculture and Agri-Food Re: application of carbon tax on primary agriculture producers.
29. Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry - Correspondence to the Mayor of the Township of Muskoka Lakes regarding process to update the Muskoka River Water Management Plan.
30. Township of Howick - Correspondence to the Premier of Ontario Re: request for clear plan regarding modernizing and expanding firefighter training.
31. Niagara Region - Correspondence to Members of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario Re: homelessness, mental health and addiction in Niagara. 1. Perth County Correspondence 2. Township of Asphodel-Norwood Correspondence 3. Town of Gore Bay Correspondence 4. City of Port Colborne Correspondence 5. Township of Terrace Bay Correspondence 6. Save the Ontario Fire College Correspondence 7. Township of Guelph/Eramosa Correspondence 8. City of St. Catharines Correspondence 9. Township of Georgian Bay Correspondence 10. Township of Conmee Correspondence 11. Township of Emo Correspondence 12. Association of Municipal Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario Correspondence 13. Township of Perry Correspondence 14. Township of Perry Correspondence 15. Township of Perry Correspondence 16. Armstrong Strategy Group Correspondence 17. Township of The Archipelago Correspondence 18. Township of South Glengarry Correspondence 19. Township of South Glengarry Correspondence 20. Municipality of St Charles Correspondence 21. Township of Tiny Correspondence 22. Township of South Frontenac Correspondence 23. City of Port Colborne Corespondence 24. Township of Strong Correspondence 25. Town of Mono Correspondence 26. Township of The Archipelago Correspondence Page 5 of 122
27. Municipality of West Grey Correspondence 28. Norfolk County Correspondence 29. Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry Correspondence 30. Township of Howick Correspondence 31. Niagara Region Correspondence
11. COMMITTEE IN CLOSED SESSION
12. ADJOURNMENT
a. Consideration of a resolution to adjourn.
** Each Public Works, Corporate Services, Community Services and Economic Development and Grants item will have the following format: • Staff Report/Comments • Public Comments, if required (Received by email or registered to speak maximum 2 minutes, on items of business) • Discussion/Debate • Committee Recommendation
A copy of this agenda is available in alternative formats upon request.
The open session meeting will be webcast and video recorded.
Page 6 of 122 Anne Haines, Account Manager, and Kaitlyn Potts, Account Support Co-Ordi...
Township of Muskoka Lakes Council MPAC Delegation Page 7 of 122
© MPAC Anne Haines, Account Manager, and Kaitlyn Potts, Account Support Co-Ordi... Page 8 of 122
© MPAC 2 Anne Haines, Account Manager, and Kaitlyn Potts, Account Support Co-Ordi... Page 9 of 122
© MPAC 3 Anne Haines, Account Manager, and Kaitlyn Potts, Account Support Co-Ordi... Page 10 of 122
© MPAC 4 Anne Haines, Account Manager, and Kaitlyn Potts, Account Support Co-Ordi... Page 11 of 122
© MPAC 5 Anne Haines, Account Manager, and Kaitlyn Potts, Account Support Co-Ordi... Page 12 of 122
© MPAC 6 Anne Haines, Account Manager, and Kaitlyn Potts, Account Support Co-Ordi... Page 13 of 122
© MPAC 7 Anne Haines, Account Manager, and Kaitlyn Potts, Account Support Co-Ordi... Page 14 of 122
© MPAC 8 Anne Haines, Account Manager, and Kaitlyn Potts, Account Support Co-Ordi...
We’re here to help
Please contact: Regional Manager Rebecca Webb [email protected] 705.641.1888 Page 15 of 122 Account Support Coordinator Kaitlyn Potts [email protected] 705.417.0318
© MPAC 9 Verbal Presentation from the Director of Financial Services and Dire... Page 16 of 122
Community Infrastructure - The Road to the Future Verbal Presentation from the Director of Financial Services and Dire... Infrastructure Underpins Our Community
Primary Infrastructure Secondary Infrastructure
Buildings Parks Roads Bridges (Community Equipment Docks Centres, Arenas, etc.) Page 17 of 122 Trails
10 Year Forecast - $57,000,000 10 Year Forecast - $20,000,000 Verbal Presentation from the Director of Financial Services and Dire... Asset Management
"Putting the right dollars into the right treatment at the right time in order to maximize value and minimize life cycle costs"
Building a complete picture of needs and responsibilities Ensuring service levels are appropriate Ensuring services are commensurate with the demand to maximize Page 18 of 122 available funding resources Verbal Presentation from the Director of Financial Services and Dire... Rehabilitation/Replacement Costs
Assuming an annual $3.5 million contribution to discretionary reserves over 10 years, the current balances will be fully depleted by
Page 19 of 122 2027. Verbal Presentation from the Director of Financial Services and Dire... Financial Plan Drivers
QUANTITY + QUALITY = TOTAL COST
CAPITAL & FIXED VARIABLE SERVICE LEVEL RELEATED Total number of Total number of OPERATING Primary Secondary The service level EXPENDITURES Infrastructure Infrastructure the Township chooses to Assets the Assets the Financial provide. Township is Township is policy developed responsible for responsible for to guide financial maintaining. maintaining. plan decisions.
Page 20 of 122 FINANCIAL PLAN OPTIONS
TAX DEBT Verbal Presentation from the Director of Financial Services and Dire... The Roadmap - Council Decision Points
Asset Management Plan (Including Service Levels) Asset Management Q3 2024 Plan (All Infrastructure) Q3 2023 Transportation Master Plan Q4 2022 Capital Financial Policy Q4 2021
Fire Master Plan Recreation, Parks, Trails, Q3 2021 and Facilities Master Plan Page 21 of 122 Q4 2021
Asset Management Plan (Core Infrastructure) Q2 2021
GENERAL / FINANCE COMMITTEE AGENDA REPORT
TO: Chair Zavitz and Members of the General / Finance Committee
MEETING DATE: March 10, 2021
SUBJECT: Proposed License Agreement – HOGARTH – Roll # 4-19-066
RECOMMENDATION 1:
THAT the application for a license agreement to construct and maintain a driveway on an Original Road Allowance lying between Lots 15 and 16, Concession 14, (Medora), submitted by Geoffrey Hunter Hogarth (Roll # 4-19-066) be APPROVED in accordance with Township Council Policy C-LS-07, subject to the following conditions:
• That an environmental site inspection report be prepared and submitted to the Township, and all works identified in the assessment be completed to the satisfaction of the Director of Public Works; • That a draft survey be prepared and provided to the Township for review prior to registration; • That no annual fee be required as the license agreement is for a driveway; and
That once the above conditions have been fulfilled, a by-law shall be PASSED at a future Council meeting to authorize the Mayor and Clerk to execute any documents required for the license agreement.
RECOMMENDATION 2:
THAT By-law 2021-15 be PASSED at the April 14, 2021 Council meeting to authorize the Mayor and Clerk to execute a Shared Road Use Agreement over the joint jurisdiction Original Road Allowance lying between Lot 16, (Medora) in the Township of Muskoka Lakes and Lot 20, (Humphrey) in the Township of Seguin with Geoffrey Hunter Hogarth (Roll # 4-19-066).
APPROVALS: Date Signature
Submitted by: Cheryl Mortimer, Clerk 08/03/2021 Original signed by C. Mortimer
Acknowledged: Derrick Hammond, CAO 08/03/2021 Original signed by D. Hammond
SUMMARY A license agreement application has been received from Geoffrey Hunter Hogarth (Roll 4-19-066) to construct and maintain a single lane driveway on a portion of an Original Road allowance lying between Lots 15 and 16, Concession 14 (Medora) shown in green on Figures A and B. Additionally, the request includes permission to enter into a Shared Road Use Agreement between the Township of Muskoka Lakes and the Township of Seguin for a shared Original Road Allowance, shown in orange on Figures A and B.
Report from the Clerk Re: Proposed License Agreement - Hogarth - Roll 4-... Page 22 of 122 BACKGROUND At the February 10, 2021 Committee of Adjustment meeting, Consent Application B/27/20/ML (Attachment I) was approved for a right-of-way in favour of Mr. Hogarth across Roll # 4-16-064 (Elizabeth and Charles Hoctor-Duncan) as shown in yellow on Figure B.
License Agreement Condition 4 of this consent includes Mr. Hogarth applying for and entering into a license agreement for the driveway to cross over the Original Road Allowance lying between Lots 15 and 16, Concession 14, (Medora) as shown in shown green on Figures A and B.
Shared Road Use Agreement Condition 3 of the consent is for Mr. Hogarth to enter into a Shared Road Use Agreement with the Township of Muskoka Lakes and the Township of Seguin. This is for an existing driveway, that crosses over the joint jurisdiction Original Road Allowance lying between Concession 14 (Medora) in the Township of Muskoka Lakes and Concession 1 (Humphrey) in the Township of Seguin as shown in shown orange on Figures A and B.
The Shared Road Use Agreement is also a condition of the Township of Seguin’s Consent Application B-2020-0009-H that expires on June 25, 2021.
Committee will recall that on October 16, 2019, By-law 2019-138 was passed by Council for the Township of Muskoka Lakes, the Township of Seguin and Elizabeth and Charles Hoctor-Duncan (Roll # 4-16-064) to enter into a similar Shared Road Use Agreement as proposed for Mr. Hogarth, for the already established driveway.
FIGURE A
Report from the Clerk Re: Proposed License Agreement - Hogarth - Roll 4-... Page 23 of 122
FIGURE B
Senior Staff have no concerns with the creation and maintenance of the driveway subject to the following conditions:
• That an environmental site inspection report be prepared and submitted to the Township, and all works identified in the assessment be completed to the satisfaction of the Director of Public Works;
• That a draft survey be prepared and provided to the Township for review prior to registration; and
• That no annual fee be required as the license agreement is for a driveway.
Report from the Clerk Re: Proposed License Agreement - Hogarth - Roll 4-... Page 24 of 122 AGREEMENT DETAILS AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION
License Agreement
It is recommend there be no annual agreement fee for driveways situated on Original Road Allowances as public road allowances are used for gaining access to parcels of land.
The license agreement will be for a term of 20 years and is not transferable. The applicant will be responsible for all costs, including the legal, environmental study and required works, and survey costs associated with the license agreement and will be required to provide limited liability insurance naming the Township as insured in an amount no less than two million dollars ($2,000,000.00) during the term, including construction. The applicant must also follow the recommendations included in the environmental report.
The construction would also be subject to the approval of the Director of Public Works, and the applicant would be responsible for all future maintenance costs.
Shared Road Use Agreement There will be no annual agreement fee for the driveway situated on the joint jurisdiction Original Road Allowance as public road allowances are used for gaining access to parcels of land.
The agreement is not transferable. The applicant will be responsible for all costs associated with the agreement, including all future maintenance costs, and will be required to provide limited liability insurance naming the Township of Muskoka Lakes and the Township of Seguin as insured in an amount no less than two million dollars ($2,000,000.00) during the term of the agreement.
TOWNSHIP STAFF CONSULTED Ken Becking, Director of Public Works Bryce Sharpe, Manager of Planning Sam Soja, Planner I Nick Snyder, Chief Building Official Lauren Irvine, Planner, Township of Seguin
CONTACT Cheryl Hollows, Corporate Assistant (705) 765-3156 x212 Clerk Mortimer, Clerk (705) 765-3156 x211
ATTACHMENT Appendix I: Township of Muskoka Lakes Notice of Decision - Consent Application B/27/20/ML
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Q4E 6)‘ >:qnmm ®_m .m~ ..wmo_.m$J.-._.~mmmSm~ 0o33_nmm 9. >q_.cmH3m2 20._._Om <9. <5: cmm:E_mn_ 8 ?mom_ 4:5 Zozom Ecm? cm23 SE Em mmQm.nm~<-._.1mmmSm«2 Em Oo33_:mm 9. >&cm»3m:..mag Um moooavmamq3 Em ammmosmEa Em m_u_umm_msaEm 32:3 ?mm?v._u_mmmmsonmE_m ZozomEcm? cm _.mom_ 229 O:_< Ea_ % , >:aammO_mN_._. mmonm?mar?mmmcqmq M M Oo33Emm 9. >&:m"3m2 GENERAL/FINANCE COMMITTEE AGENDA REPORT TO: Chair Zavitz and Members of the General/Finance Committee MEETING DATE: March 10, 2021 SUBJECT: Financial Update – Preliminary year ended December 31, 2020 RECOMMENDATION: None. For information purposes only. APPROVALS: Date Signature Submitted: Mark Donaldson Director of Financial Services Mar 5/21 ORIGINAL SIGNED BY Approved: Derrick Hammond, CAO Mar 5/21 r ORIGINAL SIGNED BY EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: Staff are presenting a report of the Township’s preliminary (unaudited) financial results for the year ended December 31, 2020 for operating and capital results. ORIGIN: Quarterly updates are presented to the Committee as outlined in Township policy C-CAO-5. BACKGROUND: Financial Information This report has been prepared based upon all available information at the time of submission. All known adjustments which will have an impact on the financial results have been included. These results are subject to change pending review by our auditors and any suggested adjustments by them to correct any material errors. Report from the Director of Financial Services Re: Financial Update - Pr... Page 28 of 122 DISCUSSION Operating Budget The preliminary operating financial results to December 31, 2020 report a surplus of $324,820. Actual Budget Over/(Under) Tax Revenues 12,277,693 12,285,251 (7,558) Other tax revenues 756,140 743,200 12,940 Non-tax revenues 3,569,790 3,667,670 (97,880) Transfer from Reserves 61,500 61,500 - Total Revenues 16,665,123 16,757,621 (92,498) Administration 4,517,239 4,847,854 (330,615) Emergency Services 1,427,890 1,532,695 (104,805) Development Services and Environmental 2,955,031 2,985,703 (30,672) Sustainability Public Works 6,928,518 6,862,919 65,599 Muskoka Lakes Public Library 511,625 528,450 (16,825) Total Expenses 16,340,303 16,757,621 (417,318) Excess of revenues over expenses 324,820 - 324,820 Revenues Revenues in 2020 were $92,498 less than Budget. This result is primarily due to: Reduction in bank prime rate resulting in lower interest income (Treasury); Reduced planning revenues as fewer applications for zoning amendments and severances were received (Planning); Recreation facility closures resulting in lower user fees at community centres, arenas and cancellation of the summer swimming program; Lower recovery from the District Municipality of Muskoka for road maintenance (offset by lower costs). Increased permit revenues in the Building department offset some of these lower revenues in the year. The higher level of revenue in the Building department resulted in higher operating expenses and the related surplus is transferred to the Building reserve. Treasury revenue (non-tax revenue) includes $175,800 of grant income recognized from the Safe Restart Agreement funding for COVID expenses (see COVID-19 Impacts later in this report). Below are tables which provide additional detail for each revenue category. Tax Revenues Program Actual Budget Over/(Under) Tax Revenues 12,277,693 12,285,251 (7,558) 2 Report from the Director of Financial Services Re: Financial Update - Pr... Page 29 of 122 Other Tax Revenues Program Actual Budget Over/(Under) Penalties and interest 523,885 510,000 13,885 Supplemental Taxes 161,556 150,000 11,556 Payment-in-lieu 32,573 45,000 (12,427) Street lighting levy 38,126 38,200 (74) Other tax revenues 756,140 743,200 12,940 Non-tax Revenues Program Actual Budget Over/(Under) 012100 - Clerk 64,588 63,280 1,308 012200 - Treasury 547,074 510,195 36,879 012500 - Human Resources/Health & Safety 3,500 3,500 012600 - Information Technology 17,000 17,000 - 632,162 590,475 41,687 021100 - Fire Stations 107,218 126,500 (19,282) 012307 - Communications/Economic Development - 3,500 (3,500) 024100 - Protective Inspection 1,631,137 1,410,000 221,137 025100 - By-Law Enforcement 4,516 8,810 (4,294) 081100 - Planning & Zoning 252,794 307,900 (55,106) 1,888,447 1,730,210 158,237 055000 - Cemeteries 26,883 32,100 (5,217) 071100 - Parks 23,214 34,100 (10,886) 071200 - Community Centres 1,925 31,300 (29,375) 071300 - Arenas 58,580 151,800 (93,220) 071400 - Swimming - 15,200 (15,200) 071800 - Facilities Maintenance 4,000 - 4,000 072100 - Muskoka Lakes Public Library 63,652 65,585 (1,933) 075100 - Private Signage 1,500 (1,500) 081300 - Port Carling Nursing Station/Health Hub 7,326 6,000 1,326 300130 - Roads Overhead 756,383 882,900 (126,517) 941,963 1,220,485 (278,522) Non-tax revenues 3,569,790 3,667,670 (97,880) Transfers from Reserves Program Actual Budget Over/(Under) 081100 - Planning & Zoning 40,000 40,000 - 081200 - Grants 21,500 21,500 - Transfer from Reserves 61,500 61,500 - 3 Report from the Director of Financial Services Re: Financial Update - Pr... Page 30 of 122 Expenses Total 2020 expenses were $417,318 under Budget, primarily due to: Lower staffing related costs due to vacancies, lower education, training and development costs and reduced conference attendance during the year; Reduced expenses for legal matters, software licensing and other consulting fees; Lower utility and building maintenance costs; Lower costs of services on District roads (offset by lower revenues noted in Revenue). These savings were offset by higher maintenance costs for Township roads in the year and increased transfers to Building reserves due to higher revenues (noted in Revenue). Below are tables which provide additional detail for each program area. Administration Program Actual Budget Over/(Under) 011100 - Council 298,170 313,775 (15,605) 012100 - Clerk 1,458,513 1,605,320 (146,807) 012200 - Treasury 1,123,850 1,183,200 (59,350) 012400 - Financing Charges 733,933 733,934 (1) 012500 - Human Resources/Health & Safety 255,332 259,425 (4,093) 012600 - Information Technology 647,441 752,200 (104,759) 4,517,239 4,847,854 (330,615) Emergency Services Program Actual Budget Over/(Under) 021100 - Fire Stations 1,387,929 1,474,495 (86,566) 021200 - Emergency Management 39,961 58,200 (18,239) 1,427,890 1,532,695 (104,805) Development Services and Environmental Sustainability Program Actual Budget Over/(Under) 012307 - Communications/Economic Development 133,644 130,000 3,644 024100 - Protective Inspection 1,640,280 1,410,000 230,280 025100 - By-Law Enforcement 82,863 128,200 (45,337) 081100 - Planning & Zoning 991,742 1,161,853 (170,111) 081200 - Grants 106,500 155,650 (49,150) 2,955,031 2,985,703 (30,672) 4 Report from the Director of Financial Services Re: Financial Update - Pr... Page 31 of 122 Public Works Program Actual Budget Over/(Under) 035000 - Street Lighting 23,482 38,200 (14,718) 035200 - Dock Lighting 3,959 5,100 (1,141) 055000 - Cemeteries 51,487 60,900 (9,413) 071100 - Parks 708,000 578,200 129,800 071200 - Community Centres 507,923 587,900 (79,977) 071300 - Arenas 621,717 741,300 (119,583) 071400 - Swimming 320 33,402 (33,082) 071800 - Facilities Maintenance 245,785 230,400 15,385 074100 - Trails 14,515 23,500 (8,985) 075100 - Private Signage - 1,500 (1,500) 081300 - Port Carling Nursing Station/Health Hub 37,190 40,900 (3,710) 300130 - Roads Overhead 2,400,799 2,370,226 30,573 300935 - Township Equipment (560,054) (644,100) 84,046 310200 - Garages 141,817 148,600 (6,783) 325132 - Miscellaneous 56,871 51,500 5,371 330036 - District Roads 421,744 628,500 (206,756) 330037 - Aggregate Source Maintenance 1,851 - 1,851 350033 - Sidewalk Maintenance 11,586 17,500 (5,914) 370040 - Bridges and Culverts 200,742 112,800 87,942 370041 - Roadside Maintenance 427,336 232,100 195,236 370042 - Paved Maintenance 415,628 325,500 90,128 370043 - Loose Top Maintenance 352,738 319,300 33,438 393044 - Winter Control 779,674 906,091 (126,417) 396145 - Safety Devices 63,408 53,600 9,808 6,928,518 6,862,919 65,599 Muskoka Lakes Public Library Program Actual Budget Over/(Under) Muskoka Lakes Public Library 511,625 528,450 (16,825) Covid-19 Impacts In August 2020, the Township received a $616,000 grant through the Federal-Provincial Safe Restart Agreement (SRA) funding to support municipalities with operating pressures related to the pandemic. The Province provided the Township with an additional $123,000 of Safe Restart funding in December 2020. In 2020, the Township reported $175,800 in expenses related to the following: Information Technology improvements 80,656 Accommodating distancing 51,007 Cleaning / sanitizing 37,040 Other expenses 7,097 TOTAL $175,800 5 Report from the Director of Financial Services Re: Financial Update - Pr... Page 32 of 122 Recovery for these expenses have been included in revenue reported (Treasury) from the SRA funding received in year. In addition to incremental expense, SRA funds may be used to replace foregone revenues during the year. These loss areas include the tax penalty waiver offered between April to July, as well as program user fees (community centres, arenas, swimming). During 2020, interest and penalties were waived only for current year interim taxes due March 27, 2020 until July 31, 2020. Interest continued to be earned on older outstanding taxes. The impact of the pandemic on residents and businesses likely affected an ability to pay, resulting in an average balance due that was higher than expected. Further, the first notice of arrears was sent to ratepayers in November. This higher average balance due resulted in higher penalties and interest earned this year versus budget, but was lower than last year (2019 - $549,509). While our facilities experienced lower revenues, there were also costs savings resulting from the facilities not being utilized. The final net impact of these closures is yet to be determined. No SRA funds have been included in this report for recovery of foregone revenue pending further analysis to determine this amount. An adjustment for this amount will be reflected in the final year-end reporting. Unused 2020 COVID grant funds will be carried over into 2021. The 2021 Budget approved by Council identifies $419,000 of these funds to be used. Capital Budget The preliminary capital results for 2020 show an underspending of $1,819,614. The lower capital spend in primarily due to: Lower cost of budget software (Questica), and delays in implementation of CityWorks and MFiles projects (Information Technology); Order placed, but delivery of the Windermere pumper not expected until 2021 (Fire); Savings resulting from lower bids on road projects than projected (Roads); Did not proceed with lower level construction as planned (Health Hub); Deferral of the Portage Street dock replacement (Parks); Did not require amounts related to requests from CC Boards due to closures, and did not proceed with internet upgrades in Raymond (Community Centres); Deferral of the Port Carling arena floor replacement (Arenas); and Lower than planned spending on collections and deferral of installation of a new collection desk (Library). 6 Report from the Director of Financial Services Re: Financial Update - Pr... Page 33 of 122 The table below provides additional detail for each program area. Program Actual Budget Over/(Under) Clerk 57,006 76,000 (18,994) Information Technology 93,924 235,600 (141,676) Fire 557,396 1,044,500 (487,104) Emergency Services - 12,000 (12,000) Building Services 36,186 40,000 (3,814) Roads 2,468,972 2,862,300 (393,328) Cemeteries 5,275 8,000 (2,725) Health Hub/Wellness Centre 22 50,000 (49,978) Parks 161,717 588,100 (426,383) Community Centres 70,606 136,800 (66,194) Arenas 149,111 305,100 (155,989) Facilities 59,853 56,200 3,653 Library 27,418 72,500 (45,082) Trails - 20,000 (20,000) 3,687,486 5,507,100 (1,819,614) Contributions to reserves from operating in 2020 were $3,644,738 (Budget - $3,417,882). The combination of higher contributions (mainly due to higher Building department revenue) and capital underspending will result in a higher ending balance of reserves than budgeted by approximately $2 million. Final 2020 reserve activity analysis and balances is on-going and will be provided to Committee in a future report. Commentary The pandemic had a significant impact on 2020 operations. Services were affected by closures resulting from the provincial shut down and the need to follow the advice of public health officials. To mitigate that risk, staff continued to take a prudent approach to managing costs by adapting services so to be able to continue to provide public services. Lower revenues were offset by lower operating expenses, while contributions to reserves were increased over the prior year, as budgeted. In the face of many uncertainties and challenges, Staff were able to successfully manage the Township’s finances within overall budget allocations. The 2020 audit is scheduled for early April, with expectation of the final audit report available to the General/Finance Committee in early summer. 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OwOHWO.$ I wonmags; wmuoriou 2:532. 3:55 22$ E\W.wlnmnamawmgeaa 3 E. w§_=m2.. an: _dmo_ E. 22< BE :._=..Ea.. w5...§ m. _.§8§o= .8 00:3: .<. U58 ,3: Eamon”mCcSQ .633 8 09:8: 0: .255 G. _u. Om=mn_m:o:umo===omozwmouursmons ._wom:_a 5 @205 om2.5 :33 Boisw ».o2 B. >._.o:3:=S: P Oosmaonmmosomm_.mmo_=mo=8 m&o=:._. W8o_=:o= ZEEUGH q-=~>~\~— _...o :23 3 E. woniamon : :u.mo_ >E.wo MINUTES Parks and Trails Advisory Committee Regular Meeting Monday, November 23, 2020 @ 2:00 PM by Teleconference, Municipal Office Port Carling, Ontario MEMBERS PRESENT: Councillor Nishikawa (Chair) Councillor Roberts (Co Chair) Member Bol Member Currie Member Davis Member Ringler MEMBER REGRETS: None STAFF PRESENT: D. Hammond, CAO K. Becking, Director of Public Works P. Barager, Public Works Administrative Assistant NOTICE: This meeting will be held ELECTRONICALLY from the Council Chambers, Municipal Office, Port Carling, Ontario, in accordance with section 238 of the Municipal Act, 2001. As part of the Township’s response to stop the spread of COVID-19, the Municipal Office remains closed to the public until further notice. 1. Call to Order a. Chair called the meeting to order at 2:02 p.m. Chair Nishikawa read the electronic meeting notification and confirmed meeting quorum. 2. Disclosure of Interest a. None. 3. Adoption of Agenda a. Consideration of a resolution to adopt the agenda. Resolution Number PTAC-1-23/11/20 Minutes of the Parks and Trails Committee meeting held on November 23, 2... Page 42 of 122 Parks and Trails Committee November 23, 2020 Member Ringler– Member Davis: Be it resolved that the Parks and Trails Advisory Committee meeting agenda be adopted. Carried 4. Adoption of Minutes a. Parks and Trails Advisory Committee meeting minutes dated September 29, 2020. A copy of the minutes is attached. Resolution Number PTAC-2-23/11/20 Councillor Roberts – Member Ringler: Be it resolved that the Parks and Trails Advisory Committee meeting minutes dated September 29, 2020 be adopted. Carried 5. INVITED GUESTS a. None. 6. Items of Business a. Parks and Trails Master Plan The Director of Public Works presented a report outlining a proposed project to update the Recreation, Parks and Trails Master Plan and include in the Public Works portion of the 2021 Capital Budget. Resolution Number PTAC-3-23/11/20 Member Bol – Member Davis: Be it resolved that the Parks and Trails Advisory Committee recommend that the update of the Recreation, Parks and Trails Master Plan project be forwarded to the General and Finance Committee for consideration for the 2021 Capital Budget. Carried b. Torrance Barrens Update The Director of Public Works presented an update on the Council report re: the management of the Torrance Barrens Conservation Reserve and a recommended approach for the Township to stay involved in the matter. The response from the MECP was included in the report. Resolution Number PTAC-4-23/11/20 Minutes of the Parks and Trails Committee meeting held on November 23, 2... Page 43 of 122 Parks and Trails Committee November 23, 2020 Councillor Roberts – Member Currie: Be it resolved that the Parks and Trails Advisory Committee receive the report entitled Torrance Barrens Update. Carried c. Update on Huckleberry Trail Report to General and Finance The Director of Public Works presented an update on a report to the General and Finance Committee detailing recommended changes to access controls at the Huckleberry Trail. The proposed changes were endorsed by the General Finance Committee. Resolution Number PTAC-5-23/11/20 Councillor Roberts – Member Ringler: Be it resolved that the Parks and Trails Advisory Committee receive the report entitled Huckleberry Rock Trails Access Controls. Carried d. 2021 Work Plan and Budget The Director of Public Works presented a report detailing a work plan for the Township’s recreational trails for 2021 and beyond, to be recommended for consideration in the draft 2021 Budget. Resolution Number PTAC-6-23/11/20 Member Bol – Councillor Roberts: Be it resolved that the Parks and Trails Advisory Committee recommend to the General and Finance Committee that the Work Plan as outlined in the report entitled 2021 Trails Work Plan be included in the draft 2021 budget. Carried 7. New Business Minutes of the Parks and Trails Committee meeting held on November 23, 2... Page 44 of 122 Parks and Trails Committee November 23, 2020 a. Clear Lake Trail Update Chair Nishikawa provided an update on the possibility of legitimizing the connectivity between the Clear Lake Trail, which is currently a snowmobile trail, to Gravenhurst’s Devil’s Gap Trail. The Town of Gravenhurst installed new signs which has resulted in increased traffic. Parking is also an issue. A report from the Director of Public Works addressing this issue is recommended. b. Connect Walker’s Point to Hardy Lake Chair Nishikawa provided an update to the ongoing initiative to connect Walker’s Point to Hardy Lake Trail. There are potentially easier trails between the two locations, and parking at Walker’s Point Community Centre would be an option. The province was approached 4 years ago but turned down the request. A proposal to the MECP would be the next step. 8. Committee in Closed Session a. None. 9. Adjournment a. Consideration of a resolution to adjourn. Resolution Number PTAC-7-23/11/20 Member Currie – Member Ringler: Be it resolved that this meeting adjourn at 3:30 p.m. Carried Pam Barager, Public Works Administrative Assistant Chair Ruth Nishikawa Minutes of the Parks and Trails Committee meeting held on November 23, 2... Page 45 of 122 GENERAL/FINANACE COMMITTEE AGENDA REPORT TO: Chair Zavitz and Members of General/Finance Committee MEETING DATE: March 10, 2021 SUBJECT: Closure of Ontario Fire College, Gravenhurst Campus RECOMMENDATION: THAT Council express concern that the closure of the Ontario Fire College may result in training that are not financially sustainable for the Township; AND THAT Council express their support for the Town of Gravenhurst Committee of the Whole Resolution respecting the closure of the Ontario Fire College insofar as it will result in job losses and would be a detriment to the broader community; AND FURTHER THAT modernization efforts to improve fire service training must result in a program that is affordable, accessible and meet the needs of all department sizes and types in the Province of Ontario. APPROVALS: Date Signature Submitted By: Ryan Murrell, March 5 2021 signed by R. Murrell Fire Chief / CEMC Acknowledged: Derrick Hammond, CAO March 5 2021 signed by D. Hammond SUMMARY: Following the Council Agenda of February 10, 2021 where two items of correspondence under Other Business were received from OPSEU Local 317 and Township of Baldwin; this report provides an overview of the announcement by the province to modernize firefighter training and the plan to permanently shut down the Ontario Fire College (OFC) campus, located in Gravenhurst. ORIGIN: Report from the Fire Chief Re: Closure of Ontario Fire College, Gravenhu... Page 46 of 122 On January 13, 2021, the Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management (OFMEM) announced that the Gravenhurst campus of the Ontario Fire College (OFC) is closing effective March 31, 2021, and further that the Province will be modernizing firefighter training. There was no consultation with any municipalities prior to this announcement. BACKGROUND: Most fire departments in Ontario are operated and funded by municipalities. Since 1949, the provincial government, through the Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management (OFMEM) has provided and subsidized firefighter training at the Ontario Fire College (OFC) campus in Gravenhurst. The OFC's primary responsibility is to develop and deliver academically sound educational/training programs to meet the needs of the fire service. Over the years, due to continued reductions of provincial resources at the OFMEM, the Ontario Association of Fire Chief’s (OAFC) assisted the OFMEM with time, resources, and expertise to review and update firefighter training courses to ensure they met prescribed standards in Ontario. Through the OAFC leadership, courses were based on the Ontario Fire Service Standards in 1993 and then the NFPA standards in 2012. DISCUSSION: Closure The decision to close the OFC campus appears to be irreversible at this time and the date aligned with the end of the provincial fiscal year. While the closing of the fire college campus in Gravenhurst is a loss of accessible, available, consistent, and standardized training for Ontario’s fire service, it is also an economic loss to the Muskoka community. Modernization While the announcement also speaks to modernization of training, a fulsome and detailed framework and plan must be developed with input from all stakeholders. Modernization of training for the fire service should be based on an equitable and sustainable model, with principles that include affordability, accessibility and autonomy. It should result in a program that has a standardized curriculum with testing and oversight that meets the needs of all department sizes and types in the Province of Ontario. The plan that the province is relying upon has twenty Regional Training Centres becoming the sites that offer training for the fire service in lieu of one college. Funding It is noted that the Province currently provides grants to police services to address both local and provincial community safety priorities through the Community Safety Grants program. At this time, there is no similar program for fire services. The Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs has requested that any financial resources being re-directed from the OFC closure stay within the Ontario fire service. This funding should be used to create a grant or subsidy, similar to other emergency services, to ensure a standardized training system for all fire services. Report from the Fire Chief Re: Closure of Ontario Fire College, Gravenhu... Page 47 of 122 Summary In conclusion, there is not a “one-size, fits all” approach to training for the fire service, based on individual department size, resources, needs, and circumstances. In developing a long-term plan, it must provide fire services with the autonomy and authority to train and test their fire service personnel to the levels of service that they provide. FINANCIAL The closure of the OFC could result in significantly increased training costs for our fire service than in the past. These increased costs have not been factored in to our 2021 Fire Services budget. The training provided at the OFC was at a set rate of $65.00 per course per student, inclusive of all accommodations and meals. Below is a chart that provides an indication of the difference in price for just the course for typical firefighter courses. For the purposes of this comparison, Leeds and Thousand Islands Regional Training Centre and Southwest Fire Academy pricing has been used as comparators in the table below. Course OFC fee RTC fee Private College fee Firefighter 1 Recruit $65 $1,200 $2,995 Pump Operator $65 $350 $595 Rescue $65 Not Offered $595 Fire Officer Level 1 $65 $300 Not Offered Firefighter 2 $65 $700 $2,995 Investigator $65 $500 Not Offered Vehicle Rescue $65 $300 $595 Technician Fire Code Courses $65 $300 Not Offered Fire Instructor $65 $300 Not Offered Fire & Safety Educator $65 $300 Not Offered Currently, the budget includes $3,900 for course fees for our recruit program to train 20 new recruits up to the level of Firefighter 1 & 2 using the OFC fee structure ($170 per recruit). Using the RTC fees above, this fee could increase to $38,000 ($1,900 per recruit), an increase over 870%. In addition to the increase in training fee, additional costs would be incurred due to traveling to a RTC (none are located as close as the OFC), lodging and meals. CONTACT: Ryan Murrell, Fire Chief 705 765 3156 Ext. 261 ATTACHMENTS: Communique from the Ontario Fire Marshal Leeds and Thousand Islands Calendar w fees Southwest Fire Academy Report from the Fire Chief Re: Closure of Ontario Fire College, Gravenhu... Page 48 of 122 GENERAL/FINANACE COMMITTEE AGENDA REPORT TO: Chair Zavitz and Members of General/Finance Committee MEETING DATE: March 10, 2021 SUBJECT: Emergency Public Alerting System RECOMMENDATION: None. For Information Purposes only. APPROVALS: Date Signature Submitted By: Ryan Murrell, March 5 2021 signed by R.Murrell Fire Chief / CEMC Acknowledged: Derrick Hammond, CAO March 5 2021 signed by D.Hammond EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: This report provides an update on the implementation of the public alerting application. ORIGIN: Pursuant to our report to Committee that evaluated the options to provide proactive communication to the public ahead of and during an emergency, Council authorized the requisite funds for this initiative as part of its approval of the 2020 Operating Budget. BACKGROUND: Muskoka Emergency Response Committee Throughout 2020, staff attended regular meetings of the Muskoka Emergency Response Committee (MERC), a committee comprised of the Community Emergency Management Coordinators (CEMC) of each municipality in the District of Muskoka. After the budget was approved, Township staff indicated to the MERC that the Township of Muskoka Lakes was intending to purchase the Code Red emergency mass notification system. Interest was then expressed by other partners in the use of such a system on a District Report from the Fire Chief Re: Emergency Public Alerting System. Page 49 of 122 wide basis. Benefits of universal adoption of such a system across the District include unified messaging and communications. After further analysis by the group of the Code Red platform, it was found that any related data was stored on servers located in the United States of America. As a result, the MERC group considered and endorsed the Voyent Alert notification platform. The District of Muskoka indicated that they would budget for this system beginning in 2021 and in future years for use by the District and all lower-tier municipalities to ensure consistency of emergency notifications throughout Muskoka. DISCUSSION: Voyant Alert Training Training sessions on the Voyent Alert application for select Township Emergency Control Group members was completed on February 18, 2021. These members are responsible for creating public advisories and Alerts for the Township of Muskoka Lakes. Training consisted of gaining access to the platform and how to create notifications of various types. The application is very user friendly and most participants remarked at the ease of use. Schedule During the week of March 8 – 14, 2021, a soft launch of the application is proposed. This will involve a test of the application through a simulation in which notifications will be sent to Emergency Control Group members and they must confirm receipt by way of a “response acknowledgement”. On March 15, 2021, all standard advisory and alert templates will be provided to the Voyent Alert team. They will in turn pre load the system with these notifications, which are intended to cover the most common emergency types, identified in the Township and District Hazard Identification and Risk Assessments. March 22, 2021 is the scheduled go live date for the application to the public. It is proposed that the community will be made aware of the Voyent Alert application during regular Spring freshet updates provided by the Township’s communications Coordinator. FINANCIAL: Currently, the 2021 Budget includes $3,500 per year as approved by Council to proceed with the Code Red platform. Pending approval by the District, a cost savings in the Amount of $3500 will be achieved. CONTACT: Ryan Murrell, Fire Chief 705 765 3156 Ext. 261 Report from the Fire Chief Re: Emergency Public Alerting System. Page 50 of 122 MINUTES Economic Development and Grants Committee Regular Meeting Wednesday, November 25, 2020 @ 9:00 a.m. Electronically from the Council Chambers, Municipal Office Port Carling, Ontario MEMBERS PRESENT: Councillor Kelley, Chair Councillor Mazan, Vice Chair Councillor Bridgeman Councillor Zavitz Member Campbell Member Fleck Member Pottow REGRETS: Member Knight Member Murphey OTHERS PRESENT: D. Hammond, CAO D. Pink, Director of Development Services and Environmental Sustainability C. Moore, Communications and Economic Development Specialist T. Guthrie, Clerk’s Assistant N. Fountain, Resource Advisor, MLCC J. Mole, Resource Advisor 1. Call to Order a. The Chair called the meeting to order at 9:02 a.m. and confirmed a quorum was present. The Chair read the electronic notice. 2. Disclosure of Interest a. None 3. Adoption of Agenda a. Consideration of a resolution to adopt the agenda. Resolution Number EDG-1-25/11/20 Councillor Zavitz - Councillor Mazan: Be it resolved that the Economic Development and Grants Committee meeting agenda be adopted. Carried Minutes of the Economic Development and Grants Committee meeting held on... Page 51 of 122 Economic Development and Grants Committee November 25, 2020 4. Adoption of Minutes a. Consideration of a resolution to adopt the October 28, 2020 Committee meeting minutes. A copy of the minutes are attached. Resolution Number EDC-2-25/11/20 Councillor Bridgeman - Councillor Zavitz: Be it resolved that the minutes from the October 28, 2020 Economic Development and Grants Committee be adopted. Carried 5. Invited Guests a. None 6. Items of Business a. Report from the Communications and Economic Development Specialist Re: Updated Municipal Grants Policy. A copy of the report is attached. The Communications and Economic Development Specialist presented the report to Committee and answered questions about money in budget allocated to the grants Committee. Resolution Number EDG-3-25/11/20 Member Campbell - Councillor Mazan: Be it resolved that the updated Municipal Grants Policy, attached to the report, entitled “Updated Municipal Grants Policy” and dated November 25, 2020 be approved. Carried b. Report from Communications and Economic Development Specialist Re: 2021 Economic Development Initiatives A copy of the report is attached. Member Fleck joined the meeting at 9:45 a.m. The Communications and Economic Development Specialist introduced the initiatives to Committee. Committee discussed resources available to carry out the initiatives and setting priorities and consideration of a part time Economic Development Communications staff person. Page 2 of 4 Minutes of the Economic Development and Grants Committee meeting held on... Page 52 of 122 Economic Development and Grants Committee November 25, 2020 It was the consensus of Committee to forward feedback on the initiative items to staff by December 10. Feedback will be presented to senior management team for budget considerations. c. Update - Covid 19 Support Initiatives The Communications and Economic Development Specialist provided an update on the mapping and internet resources available online, speed testing providers for internet services, other regional updates, insurance difficulties for businesses related to Covid and a task force update. Committee was aske to provide comments to staff by December 10, 2020 related to the staff report update. d. Update - Muskoka Lakes Chamber of Commerce Norah Fountain provided a chamber update including the 2020 work plan and the 2021 initiatives. Committee discussed the Port Carling visitor information centre and food bank holiday matching program being run by Dad's of Muskoka. e. Update - Muskoka Economic Recovery Task Force • Broadband Speed Test 7. New Business a. Committee Vacancy The Chair indicated that there is an application process for filling the committee vacancy and recommended interested parties apply. 8. Committee in Closed Session a. None 9. Adjournment a. Consideration of a resolution to adjourn. Resolution Number EDG-4-25/11/20 Member Pottow - Councillor Bridgeman: Be it resolved that this meeting adjourn at 10:55 a.m. and that the next regular scheduled meeting of the Economic Development and Grants Committee be held at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 27, 2021 or at the call of the Chair. Page 3 of 4 Minutes of the Economic Development and Grants Committee meeting held on... Page 53 of 122 Economic Development and Grants Committee November 25, 2020 Carried Teri Guthrie, Clerk's Assistant Peter Kelley, Chair Page 4 of 4 Minutes of the Economic Development and Grants Committee meeting held on... Page 54 of 122 Corporate Services Department Finance Division Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario [email protected] February 2, 2021 RE: Significant Negative Impacts of Current Value Assessments in Perth County Dear Premier Ford, During the January 28th, 2021 Perth County Council meeting a resolution was passed directing staff to write a letter to the Province highlighting the concerns of assessment delays. The motion reads: WHEREAS the property tax system is based on current value assessment; AND WHEREAS the current delay in assessment does not utilize the Province’s model of CVA, THEREFORE, County Council direct staff to correspond with the Premier, the Finance Minister, the Minister of Municipal Affairs, Minister of Agriculture, Perth’s MPP to move forward with implementing reassessment based on CVA, and that copies of the correspondence be sent to all Ontario municipalities. Primary Concerns: The 2016 assessment valuation does not use the property tax model of Current Value Assessment (CVA). The assessment valuations in use are 5 years old. Assessment delays do not benefit all tax classes equally by shifting the assessment disproportionately between residential and farmland. Assessment delays create skepticism in the overarching framework of CVA and this skepticism causes citizens to question the Provincial model and process of CVAs. Current legislation restricts the ability for local government flexibility, as the ratio for residential tax class cannot be changed from a ratio of 1.00. A further delay in reassessment continues to create challenges in how local government, along with tax policy, is ensuring the appropriate assessment values pay for their appropriate allotment of taxation levies. Local tax levies are developed within the constraints of the boundaries that provide the services to their communities. With property assessment valuations being 5 years past due, it causes citizens to question the validity of the system of property taxes that the Province of Ontario adheres to. Corporation of the County of Perth 1 Huron Street, Stratford, Ontario, Canada N5A 5S4 t. 519‐271‐0531 f. 519‐271‐6265 www.perthcounty.ca Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 55 of 122 This is particularly exacerbated in a community such as Perth County that is a mix of urban and rural. The 2016 assessment valuation significantly shifted property taxes to the farmland class, which was phased in over the past 4 years. The shift was significant enough that the residential class has seen decreases in their portion of the overall municipal burden while the burden on farmland is disproportionately increasing. Natural assessment valuation shifts do impact the tax policies of local governments with an urban‐ rural mix and more directly follow the overall property tax model of CVA. Equipping municipalities with the knowledge of the set dates related to reassessment and new valuation dates, provides the ability for key financial municipal departments to better plan for these assessment shifts that cannot be alleviated through tax ratio changes. Below is some further information that outlines the significant impact on Perth County in particular: The overall tax burden on Perth County farmland increased from 21% in 2016 to 29% in 2020 of the overall levy. These percentages do include growth from 2017 to 2020. The amount of farmland would be higher in relation to phase in assessment amounts only. Based on 2020 without growth the percentage burden would have been higher than the 29%. The geography of Perth County is unique as it includes two urban center single tiers: The City of Stratford and The Town of St. Marys. This pushes the amount of farmland within the two‐ tiered structure of Perth County to greater than 90% of the total area covered by farmland. As they are single tier municipalities, The City of Stratford and The Town of St. Marys do not assist in subsidizing farmland as they would if they were part of a true two tiered structure. All of the Perth County’s OMPF allocations are categorized as transitional, which is soon to be phased out completely. As of 2021, $1,020,400 still remains to be phased out of the County’s budget In summary, Perth County is asking the province to update the CVA calculations to bring them in line with current property valuations and further to consider the impacts of the urban‐rural mix of the region and the resultant impact causing residents to disproportionately carry the tax burden over citizens in neighbouring regions without the inclusion of single tier municipalities in their borders. We look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, Corey Bridges, Manager of Finance / Treasurer On behalf of Perth County Council Cc: Minister of Finance – Peter Bethlenfalvy Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing – Steve Clark Minister of Agriculture – Ernie Hardeman Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 56 of 122 Perth Wellington MPP – Randy Pettapiece All Ontario Municipalities Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 57 of 122 February 1, 2021 Sent by E-mail [email protected] Honourable Sylvia Jones Solicitor General 18th Floor - 25 Grosvenor St. Toronto, ON M7A 1Y6 Re: Community Safety & Well-Being Plan - Extension Request Dear Solicitor General Jones, The Township of Asphodel-Norwood is participating in a regional Community Safety & Well-Being Plan (CSWB) plan with the City of Peterborough and the eight (8) lower-tier municipalities located within the County of Peterborough. The decision to develop a joint plan was derived after consulting with our municipal neighbours. Our vision for a long- term tool that addresses the unique needs of our area while supporting safe, healthy, and sustainable communities by moving away from reactionary, incident-driven responses and re-focusing on proactive, collaborative initiatives to take the strain off the emergency response system is shared by all of our municipal partners; as the success of our community is dependent upon each and every individual’s well-being. Preparations are underway, but the response efforts needed to manage the COVID-19 outbreak have taken priority and an unprecedented amount of time, energy, and resources. A meaningful CSWB Plan requires extensive public consultation and engagement in order to prepare a document that is both comprehensive and in alignment with the legislative intent. Given the current political climate and the ongoing effects of the pandemic, a deadline extension for the completion and adoption of a CSWB Plan would be the most appropriate course of action. The Township appreciates the extension previously granted from January 1, 2021 to July 1, 2021, but humbly asks the Solicitor General consult with municipalities before prescribing a new deadline. With that in mind, I put forward the following resolution for your consideration: WHEREAS the Police Services Act, 1990, was amended on January 1, 2019 to mandate every municipality in Ontario to prepare and adopt a Community Safety and Well-Being (CSWB) Plan; and Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 58 of 122 WHEREAS the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing introduced the Municipal Emergency Act, 2020 to assist municipal governments and local boards during the COVID-19 emergency; and WHEREAS the protective measures municipalities have put in place to protect their communities, Councillors, and staff members include eliminating face-to-face meetings, closing municipal offices, and directing staff to work from home; and WHEREAS Bill 189, Coronavirus (COVID-19) Support and Protection Act, 2020 was passed to amend various acts to support municipal, policing, and community partners during the pandemic; NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that while these measures are imperative and necessary, they impose undue hardship on municipalities to meet provincial deadlines such as the completion and adoption of a Community Safety & Well-Being (CSWB) Plan prior to July 1, 2021. The Council of the Township of Asphodel-Norwood calls upon the Solicitor General to review the imposed deadline for municipalities to complete and adopt a Community Safety & Well-Being (CSWB) Plan in consultation with local governments to address the unique challenges facing individual regions. Thank you in advance for your time and consideration of our request. Please do not hesitate to reach out should you require any further information. Sincerely, Candice White, CAO/Clerk/Treasurer Township of Asphodel-Norwood Cc: Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services All Ontario Municipalities in Ontario Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 59 of 122 ox.mum 900.6038: :8 Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... n>0\n_m1. 3:032 Nu.~80 03: :..a$_._= n_m1. ._._.mmmc_.m_.n>0 _<_c:1n€m_:<025313: 3:0 0%.. 333 m:Enmm_6 :9 2.010: mmm_.n=:_:mc3:nm Emmmmammq<_mmn_E3 3 3 _.mnm:» n0c:n= 3mm1:mEma 0: 3:53. up.Now» n0::n= «m<.m< 00_.m Em 1.05: 0." wm<1.4.1: 3:00: 3.. Em _<_c:1n.:m=.20*nEm_._.0: 3:0 Ummx8 c_.mmEm v_.0<1:nm 0* 0:310 3 =:3m&m~m_<_.m<.m< 33Emq Emmmm1:0 mnm111mq cam83 0."xmm0_c10: 20. E08 .:n=nm1:mEm ._.0<<: 01003 wm<.m 2000:. <0c_.m :.c_<. $.))\ m3m.m9: Page 60 of 122 n>0\n_m_.x m:n_. mm}: on I0:0:3u_m 00cmEa. v_.m3_m_.0*0:310 I0:0c_.ma_m :8. 2...__.:m._<::_m3_. 0."2:m:nm I0:0c_.mc_m 00cm00<<:m<.>£0_.:m< mm:m3_ 0*0:310 >__0:310 _<_c:1n.:m_:.mm Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Em Hm> omwd?mu awcmOOHJN omWmmO—..d.EOZzdzwmw T33 >UOw._.mU w< OOCZOP. OZ amucmaw3. ~03 ...... o>o\o§w 38¢ _<_o T 905.835.2900 ext 106 F 905.834.5746 Corporate Services Department E [email protected] Clerk’s Division January 26, 2021 Honourable Patty Hajdu Sent via E-mail: [email protected] Federal Minister of Health 705 Red River Road, Suite 3 Thunder Bay, ON P7B 1J3 Dear Honourable Minister: Re: Resolution – Unlicensed and unmonitored cannabis grow operations Please be advised that, at its meeting of January 11, 2021, the Council of The Corporation of the City of Port Colborne resolved as follows: That Council support the correspondence item attached as Appendix B from the Township of Blandford-Blenheim regarding Cannabis Production. A copy of the above noted correspondence is enclosed for your reference. Your favourable consideration of this request is respectfully requested. Sincerely, Amber LaPointe City Clerk Encl. ec: Honourable David Lametti, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Vance Badawey, MP Niagara Centre Jeff Burch, MPP Niagara Centre Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) Ontario Municipalities Page 1 of 1 Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 62 of 122 Appendix B Report 2021-07 Township of Blandford-Blenheim 47 Wilmot Street South Drumbo, Ontario N0J 1G0 Phone: 519-463-5347 Fax: 519-463-5881 Web: www.blandfordblenheim.ca October 13, 2020 Emailed to the Federal Minister of Health, Federal Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Federal Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Oxford MP, Oxford MPP, the Association of Municipalities of Ontario and all municipalities in Ontario. Re: Unlicensed and unmonitored cannabis grow operations Please be advised that at the Regular Meeting of Council on October 7th, 2020, the Council of the Township of Blandford-Blenheim passed the following resolution: Resolution Number: 2020-14 Moved by: Councillor Nancy Demarest Seconded by: Councill Bruce Banbury “That Whereas unlicensed and unmonitored cannabis grow operations have increasingly become a problem in communities in Ontario as well as across the Country; and, Whereas these operations are allowed to establish with little or no consultation with the local community and municipalities are often only made aware of their existence after conflicts arise with neighboring land owners; and, Whereas loopholes in existing Federal legislation allow these large scale grow op’s to establish and operate without any of the regulations or protocols that licensed and monitored operations need to adhere to, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the Township of Blandford-Blenheim urges the Federal Government to amend the legislation under which these facilities operate to ensure the safety and rights of the local communities in which they are situated are respected; and, That this resolution be forwarded to the Federal Minister of Health, Federal Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Federal Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Oxford MP, Oxford MPP, the Association of Municipalities of Ontario and all municipalities in Ontario.” Regards, Sarah Matheson Deputy Clerk Township of Blandford-Blenheim Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 63 of 122 The Corporation of the Township of Terrace Bay P.O. Box 40, 1 Selkirk Avenue, Terrace Bay, ON, P0T 2W0 Phone: (807) 825-3315 Fax: (807) 825-9576 February 2, 2021 The Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario Legislative Building, Queen’s Park Toronto, ON M7A 1Y7 Dear Premier Doug Ford, Please be advised that Council of The Corporation of the Township of Terrace Bay at the Regular Council Meeting on February 1, 2021 resolved as follows: That the resolution received from the Rainy River District Municipal Association Re: Tax Rate for Railway Rights-of-Way – Per Tonne-Mile Contract, be supported. Resolution: 27-2021 Moved By: Councillor Moore Seconded By: Councillor Malashewski WHEREAS in 2018 the Province of Ontario adjusted the tax rate for acreage for railway rights of way throughout Ontario which specifically impacted Rainy River, Kenora and Thunder Bay Districts in a positive fashion; and WHEREAS in other provinces and Jurisdictions the railway companies remit a more equitable share of taxes to their local tax base by using a per tonne-mile concept; and WHEREAS rail traffic continues to increase and the train length has more than doubled which results in rail traffic congestion, increased wait times, noise pollution, unknown environmental concerns, and causing small municipalities to keep open and maintain road allowances which only benefit the railroads, as well as crossing maintenance payments and inflationary costs; and WHEREAS the Province of Ontario should review fees based on inflation and current conditions on an annual basis to ensure that Ontario does not continue to fall further behind in their approach to railway property taxation; and WHEREAS fair and equitable taxation revenue on railway property based on the per tonne-mile will reduce the financial pressure especially during the COVID-19 pandemic and its recovery on the Province and provide financial support to municipalities taxation going forward; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Township of Terrace Bay supports the Rainy River District Municipal Association in its call to the Minister of Finance of the Province of Ontario to undertake ongoing consideration of municipal taxation for railroad rights of way properties based on a per tonne-mile concept; and CARRIED Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 64 of 122 FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Township of Terrace Bay send this resolution of support to every Municipal Council within the Province of Ontario seeking their support, the Premier of Ontario, the Minister of Finance of Ontario, Local MPP's, Local MP's, NOMA, ROMA, and AMO." Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Jonathan Hall CAO/Clerk CC: Minister of Finance of Ontario Local MPP Local MP NOMA ROMA AMO Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 65 of 122 Dear Municipal Leaders: We are writing to you regarding the Provinces' announcement on January 13th, 2021, of the impending closure of the Gravenhurst campus of the Ontario Fire College. It is our understanding that two of the three associations who were quoted in the Governments press release as being in support of the closure were not consulted before the announcement other than to be asked if they were in support of the "modernization and regionalization" of training for the fire service in Ontario. The Government did NOT inform these associations that this meant closing down the Gravenhurst campus of the Fire College! The Provincial Government has publicly stated that this modernization and regionalization will be more cost-effective and accessible to municipalities. This is simply not true. The Government has not shared a plan to show how their proposed modernization and regionalization of the fire service training will be more cost-effective and accessible to all municipalities in Ontario. The Province's regionalization model currently has Memorandums of Understanding (MOU's) with a mixed bag of twenty "Regional Training Centers" (RTC's) located in various areas around the Province. The municipalities' cost to send one firefighter to an RTC range between $300 - $1200 for the course alone. This cost does not include accommodations or meals. The Gravenhurst campus of the Ontario Fire College has modern facilities with modern equipment where subject matter experts provide training in all fire service disciplines. Students intermingle with each other on campus, and most have made lifelong friends while staying at the College. This social interaction will not exist at any RTC. The cost is $65.00 for a municipality to send one firefighter to the College. That cost includes accommodations and three meals a day. This cost has not changed in well over a decade. The fact of the matter is that each municipality's cost to train their fire service personnel to a recognized standard, which could soon become mandatory if the Government revives O. Reg 379/18, could dramatically increase by closing the Gravenhurst campus. The Fire Protection and Prevention Act 1997, as amended, requires the Fire Marshal to "develop training programs and evaluation systems for persons involved in the provision of fire protection services." It also stipulates the fire marshal must "provide programs to improve practices relating to fire protection services" and "maintain and operate a central fire college." As municipal leaders, would you prefer an affordable, cost effective training model that keeps students in one location with up to date, technically accurate training facilities led by subject matter expert? Or a more expensive training model in facilities that cannot match what the Gravenhurst campus can offer? If you prefer the former, please stand with us against this ill advised closure. Let's keep your firefighters and your community safe by keeping the ONLY provincial fire training facility in Ontario open! Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 66 of 122 8348 Wellington Road 124 P.O. Box 700 Rockwood ON N0B 2K0 Tel: 519-856-9596 Fax: 519-856-2240 Toll Free: 1-800-267-1465 February 8, 2021 Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing 17th Floor, 777 Bay Street Toronto, ON M7A 2J3 Attention: The Hon. Steve Clark Re: Advocacy for Reform – MFIPPA Legislation At the Township of Guelph/Eramosa’s Regular Meeting of Council held on Monday February 1, 2021, the following resolution was put forward and passed: Be it resolved that the Council of the Township of Guelph/Eramosa has received Clerk’s Department Report 21/03 regarding Advocacy for Reform – MFIPPA Legislation; and That that the following motions be passed in support of a request to review and reform of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act: WHEREAS the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act R.S.O. 1990 (MFIPPA) dates back 30 years; AND WHEREAS municipalities, including the Township of Guelph/Eramosa, practice and continue to promote open and transparent government operations, actively disseminate information and routinely disclose public documents upon request outside of the MFIPPA process; AND WHEREAS government operations, public expectations, technologies, and legislation surrounding accountability and transparency have dramatically changed and MFIPPA has not advanced in line with these changes; AND WHEREAS the creation, storage and utilization of records has changed significantly, and the Municipal Clerk of the Municipality is responsible for records and information management programs as prescribed by the Municipal Act, 2001; Jenni Spies Tel: 519-856-9596 Deputy Clerk [email protected] Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 67 of 122 AND WHEREAS regulation 823 under MFIPPA continues to reference antiquated technology and does not adequately provide for cost recovery, and these financial shortfalls are borne by the municipal taxpayer; AND WHEREAS the threshold to establish frivolous and/or vexatious requests is unreasonably high and allows for harassment of staff and members of municipal councils, and unreasonably affects the operations of the municipality; AND WHEREAS the Act fails to recognize how multiple requests from an individual, shortage of staff resources or the expense of producing a record due to its size, number or physical location does not allow for time extensions to deliver requests and unreasonably affects the operations of the municipality; AND WHEREAS the name of the requestor is not permitted to be disclosed to anyone other than the person processing the access request, and this anonymity is used by requesters to abuse the MFIPPA process and does not align with the spirit of openness and transparency embraced by municipalities; AND WHEREAS legal professionals use MFIPPA to gain access to information launch litigation against institutions, where other remedies exist; AND WHEREAS there are limited resources to assist administrators or requestors to navigate the legislative process; AND WHEREAS reform is needed to address societal and technological changes in addition to global privacy concerns and consistency across provincial legislation; BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Ministry of Government and Consumer Services be requested to review the MFIPPA, and consider recommendations as follows: 1. That MFIPPA assign the Municipal Clerk, or designate to be the Head under the Act; 2. That MFIPPA be updated to address current and emerging technologies; 3. That MFIPPA regulate the need for consistent routine disclosure practices across institutions; 4. That the threshold for frivolous and/or vexatious actions be reviewed, and take into consideration the community and available resources in which it is applied; 5. That the threshold for frivolous and/or vexatious also consider the anonymity of requesters, their abusive nature and language in Jenni Spies Tel: 519-856-9596 ext. 107 Deputy Clerk [email protected] Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 68 of 122 requests to ensure protection from harassment as provided for in Occupational Health and Safety Act; 6. That the application and scalability of fees be designed to ensure taxpayers are protected from persons abusing the access to information process; 7. That administrative practices implied or required under the Act, including those of the IPC, be reviewed and modernized; 8. That the integrity of the Act be maintained to protect personal privacy and transparent governments. Please accept this for your information and any necessary action. Sincerely, Jenni Spies Deputy Clerk Cc. Ted Arnott, MPP Wellington-Halton Hills Michael Chong, MP Wellington-Halton Hills Minister of Consumer Services Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario Association of Municipalities of Ontario Association of Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario Ontario Clerks Jenni Spies Tel: 519-856-9596 ext. 107 Deputy Clerk [email protected] Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 69 of 122 February 9, 2021 The Honourable Doug Ford, M.P.P. Premier of Ontario Legislative Building Queen's Park Toronto, ON M7A 1A1 Sent via email: [email protected] Re: Universal Paid Sick Days in Ontario Our File 35.31.99 Dear Premier Ford: At its meeting held on February 1, 2021, St. Catharines City Council approved the following motion: “WHEREAS workers in Ontario without paid sick leave often feel forced to work when unwell so they can feed and support their families and are at risk of losing a paycheque or even their jobs if they stay home; and WHEREAS the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit is temporary, not accessible to all and not usable for the crucial first few days of an illness; and WHEREAS had legislated paid sick leave been in place before the global pandemic, lives would have been saved because infection rates would have been reduced; and WHEREAS the lack of paid sick days has especially hurt Black, Indigenous, workers of colour, women and migrant workers who are over-represented in low-paying frontline jobs with few benefits and a reduced ability to work from home; and WHEREAS the Ontario Medical Association, 11 GTHA Mayors and Chairs representing Ontario’s largest municipalities, the editorial board of the Toronto Star, the Toronto Board of Health, the Decent Work and Health Network, the Ontario Nurses Association, and several other professional associations representing thousands of healthcare workers have all called on the provincial government to legislate paid sick days; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the City of St. Catharines endorses legislated sick leave and calls on the government of Ontario to permanently legislate universal paid sick days for all workers in Ontario during the pandemic and beyond, regardless of workplace size, type of work or immigration status; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this motion be forwarded to the Premier of Ontario, Minister of Labour, all Regional MPPs, Niagara Region, and all Ontario Municipalities.” Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 70 of 122 If you have any questions, please contact the Office of the City Clerk at extension 1506. Bonnie Nistico-Dunk, City Clerk Legal and Clerks Services, Office of the City Clerk :ra Cc Minister of Labour, Hon. Monte McNaughton, [email protected] Jennifer Stevens, MPP - St. Catharines, [email protected] Jeff Burch, MPP - Niagara Centre, [email protected] Wayne Gates, MPP - Niagara Falls, [email protected] Sam Oosterhoff, MPP - Niagara West-Glanbrook, [email protected] Niagara Region Ontario Municipalities Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 71 of 122 C-032-2021 THE TOWNSHIP OF GEORGIAN BAY Council DATE: 9 February 2021 YEA NAY Councillor Bochek MOVED BY: Hazelton Councillor Cooper Councillor Douglas SECONDED Jarvis Councillor Hazelton BY: Councillor Jarvis Councillor Wiancko Mayor Koetsier DEFERRED ______CARRIED __X____ DEFEATED ______REFERRED ______ BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council send a letter of support to the Municipality of Charleton and Dack to immediately review the recommendations to investigate the unethical practice of preferred vendors who are paid substantial amounts over industry standards, despite COVID-19 delays, as insurance premiums will soon be out of reach for many communities; AND THAT this motion be provided to the Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario, the Honourable Peter Bethlenfalvy, Minister of Finance, the Honourable Doug Downey, Attorney General of Ontario and all other Ontario municipalities. Peter Koetsier Mayor Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 72 of 122 The following resolution was passed by the Council of the Township of Conmee at its regular meeting on January 26th 2021: Resolution No. 2021-022 Moved by: Councillor Arnold Seconded by: Councillor MacMaster WHEREAS duly elected Officials of a Municipality, or a Township are expected to be above reproach and to conduct themselves with integrity, truth, justice, honesty, transparency and courtesy. AND WHEREAS there are people of dubious character who have a Criminal Record, having been convicted of a Federal Offence of any of the Federal Statutes of Canada, but not limited to the Criminal Code or Narcotic Control Act, who are currently on Council of a Municipality or have let their name stand for election for Mayor, Reeve or Councillor as a municipal candidate. NOT WITHSTANDING the provisions of the Ontario Human Rights Code THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Township of Conmee lobby the Provincial Government to amend The Municipal Act and Municipal Elections Act, as may be, so that people with a criminal record who have not had their record cleared from the RCMP Data Base by order of the Governor General of Canada, be prohibited from becoming a candidate in municipal elections. AND THAT an elected local government official be disqualified from office upon conviction of a serious criminal offense and must resign AND THAT Council of the Township of Conmee direct the Clerk to send a copy of this resolution to the Ontario Premier Doug Ford, Attorney General Doug Downey, Solicitor-General Sylvia Jones, Minister of Municipal Affairs Steve Clark, Association of Municipalities of Ontario, Rural Ontario Municipal Association, Northern Ontario Municipal Association, Thunder Bay District Municipal League, MPP Judith Monteith-Farrell, and all Ontario municipalities CARRIED Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 73 of 122 The Corporation of the Township of Emo P.O. Box 520, Emo, Ontario, POW 1E0 Website: www.emo.ca Phone; 807-482-2378 E—mai|: [email protected] Fax: 807-482-2741 February 12, 2021 Via email: ash|[email protected] Township of South Stormont, 2 Mille Roches Rd., P.O. Box 84, Long Sault, ON, KOC1P0 ATTENTION: Ashley Sloan, Deputy Clerk. Dear Ashley Sloan, RE: Support for Reopening Small Business. Please be advised at the regular meeting of the Council of the Township of Emo held on February 10, 2021, the following resolution was passed: ”BEIT RESOLVEDthat the Township ofEmo hereby received correspondence fromthe Township ofSouth Stormont regarding support for re-opening small businesses; ANDFURTHERTHATCouncil endorses and supports the Township ofSouth Stormont in their effortsto request the Province ofOntario to allow forsmall businesses to immediately reopen with the required health guidelines and protocols in place.” Council fully recognizes the importance ofthis matter and felt strongly about supporting this matter. Yours truly, . l§ui£a}wl7°§o/l BF/ss cc. Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario, [email protected]; Steve Clark, Minster of Municipal Affairs, steve.c|[email protected]|a.org Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 74 of 122 February 18, 2021 AN OPEN LETTER TO ONTARIO MUNICIPAL COUNCILS Dear Council, As a vital municipal association with membership roots that reach deep into each and every part of Ontario, we know the challenges you have faced in continuing to provide essential municipal services within your community during the COVID-19 pandemic. As elected officials, we know that you recognize the contribution made by your municipal staff, many of whom are members of AMCTO. Municipal professionals across this entire province have been at the forefront of service delivery, applying their knowledge and skills to innovate processes and procedures to meet the evolving needs of residents and businesses. One key point that is often overlooked in this pandemic is that many municipal staff were prepared to act and innovate BECAUSE of the professional municipal training and development they receive from organizations like AMCTO. The leadership skills, education and technical training prepare your staff in getting ahead of immediate community needs, reacting and responding to new challenges brought on by COVID-19. This unique and sought-after skillset has allowed your staff to provide council with options and solutions for keeping your municipality running. In these challenging financial times, there will be temptation to divert operational funding away from staff training budgets. Now more than ever, it is crucial that municipalities continue to invest in your most valuable resource – your staff. In addition to increased levels of employee retention, engagement and empowerment, investments in staff professional development strengthens your council’s ability to provide reliable, effective and efficient services to your community, both today and in the future. The question is no longer “if” you innovate but “when”. Innovation comes with knowledge, training, and exposing municipal staff to new opportunities to grow and develop professionally. On behalf of AMCTO and its over 2,200 members, please accept my heartfelt thank you for your service during these difficult times. As “Municipal Experts”, AMCTO will continue to be at your service to help you and your staff meet the needs of your community. Sincerely, Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 75 of 122 Robert Tremblay, MPA, CMO, AOMC President AMCTO CC: Graydon Smith, President, AMO ### ______ Robert Tremblay, MPA, CMO, AOMC President 2680 Skymark Ave. # 610 Mississauga, ON L4W 5L6 [email protected] www.amcto.com -- This email was Malware checked. Township of Muskoka Lakes Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 76 of 122 Township of Perry PHONE: (705)636-5941 FAX: (705)636-5759 PO Box 70, 1695 Emsdale Road, Emsdale, ON P0A 1J0 www.townshipofperry.ca February 19, 2021 Via Email The Honourable Ahmed Hussen Minister of Families, Children and Social Development House of Commons Ottawa, ON K1A 0A6 Dear Honourable Minister, RE: Support the Town of Carleton Place resolution that the Government of Ontario Prioritize Children and Childcare as part of its Post Pandemic Recovery Plan ____ Please be advised that at their last regularly scheduled meeting on February 17, 2021, the Council of the Corporation of the Township of Perry supported the following resolution: “Resolution #2021-71 Moved by: Paul Sowrey Seconded by: Joe Lumley Be it resolved that the Council of the Township of Perry supports the resolution from the Town of Carleton Place requesting the Government of Ontario to: a. prioritize children and childcare as part of its overall post pandemic recovery plan; b. develop, adequately fund and release publicly a comprehensive plan that can support facilities through the provision of licensed childcare and early learning education; and c. provide increased funding to childcare provides reflective of COVID-19 operating cost increases to ensure a safe reopening and long-term sustainability for the sector. Carried.” …2 Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 77 of 122 2 Your attention to this matter is greatly appreciated. Sincerely, Beth Morton Clerk-Administrator BM/ec cc: The Honourable Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education MP Scott Aitchison, Parry Sound-Muskoka MPP Norm Miller, Parry Sound-Muskoka Stacey Blair, Clerk, Town of Carleton Place All Ontario Municipalities Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 78 of 122 Township of Perry PHONE: (705)636-5941 FAX: (705)636-5759 PO Box 70, 1695 Emsdale Road, Emsdale, ON P0A 1J0 www.townshipofperry.ca February 19, 2021 Via Email: [email protected] The Right Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario Legislative Building Queen's Park Toronto ON M7A 1A1 Dear Premier Ford, RE: Request that the Province of Ontario Reverse Decision to Close the Ontario Fire College Campus in Gravenhurst ___ Please be advised that at their last regular meeting on February 17, 2021, the Council of the Corporation of the Township of Perry supported the following resolution: “Resolution #2021-69 Moved by: Paul Sowrey Seconded by: Margaret Ann MacPhail WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College Campus has been in operation in Gravenhurst since 1958; and WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College Campus is one of the primary sources of certified training for Ontario Firefighters; and WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College Campus has built a reputation of integrity, credibility, and reliability in providing some of the best training to our Fire Services within the Province of Ontario; and WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College Campus has been used to train and certify both Volunteer, Part-Time, and Career firefighters throughout Ontario; and WHEREAS the Regional Training Centers are not all created equal and similar in function to the Ontario Fire College Campus; and /…2 Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 79 of 122 2 WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College Campus gives Ontario Firefighters another option than Regional Training Centers to obtain National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) certifications; and WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College Campus is the most cost-effective method for municipalities to certify Firefighters to NFPA Standards in Ontario; and WHEREAS the Ontario Government enacted and revoked O.Reg. 379/18: Firefighter Certification in 2018; and WHEREAS when the Ontario Government revoked O.Reg. 379/18: Firefighter Certification, it was made known by the Office of the Solicitor General that the act would be amended and brought back in the future; and THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Township of Perry requests that the Province of Ontario reverse their decision to close the Ontario Fire College Campus in Gravenhurst as the OFC is one of the best and most cost-effective methods for municipalities to train their firefighters which assists us in protecting our residents; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT this Resolution is forwarded to the Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario, the Honourable Sylvia Jones, Ontario Solicitor General, the Honourable Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, the Ontario Fire Marshal Jon Pegg, and all municipalities within the Province of Ontario. Carried.” Your attention to this matter is greatly appreciated. Sincerely, Beth Morton Clerk-Administrator BM/ec cc: Honourable Sylvia Jones, Ontario Solicitor General Honourable Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Ontario Fire Marshal Jon Pegg Ontario Fire College – Gravenhurst Campus All Ontario Municipalities Township of Perry Fire Chief Dan Marshall Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 80 of 122 Township of Perry PHONE: (705)636-5941 FAX: (705)636-5759 PO Box 70, 1695 Emsdale Road, Emsdale, ON P0A 1J0 www.townshipofperry.ca February 19, 2021 Via Email: [email protected] The Honourable Sylvia Jones Solicitor General 18th Floor – 25 Grosvenor St. Toronto, ON M7A 1Y6 Dear Solicitor General Jones, RE: Community Safety & Well-Being Plan – Extension Request ___ Please be advised that at their last regular meeting on February 17, 2021, the Council of the Corporation of the Township of Perry supported the following resolution: “Resolution #2021-67 Moved by: Margaret Ann MacPhail Seconded by: Paul Sowrey Be it resolved that the Council of the Township of Perry hereby support the efforts being taken seeking an extension of the July 1, 2021 deadline to the Solicitor General for the submission of the Community Safety and Well-Being Plan. Carried.” We appreciate your attention to this matter. Sincerely, Beth Morton Clerk-Administrator cc: Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services All Ontario Municipalities BM/ec Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 81 of 122 February 18, 2021 Dear Mayor and Members of Council: It’s no secret that municipal governance suffers from low levels of public understanding, awareness and participation – despite being the level of government closest to citizens’ lives. Voter turnout serves as just one indicator of this democratic deficit. Armstrong Strategy Group (ASG) believes in strengthening local government, making it more responsive to the electorate, and reducing apathy and alienation. Our aim is to foster a more robust, engaging civic life that addresses the complexity of modern society and brings people together in common cause and common understanding. ASG’s Senior Associate for Democratic Innovation, Dave Meslin, a long-time community organiser and democracy researcher, has plotted the shortcomings of municipal democracy as well as dozens of solutions in his recent best- selling book “Teardown: Building Democracy from the Ground Up,” published by Penguin Canada. Through ASG, Dave can now bring this knowledge and his years of experience to your municipality. The team at ASG has deep experience in municipal government from many perspectives. Company President, John Armstrong has worked with single and two-tier municipal governments across Ontario, as well as advocated to them on behalf of private and not-for-profit organizations; Senior Associate Dean Iorfida spent 15 years as Clerk of the City of Niagara Falls; and Senior Media and Policy Analyst Jeff Bolichowski covered municipal government as a journalist in Niagara and Windsor. The team is rounded out with a strong graphic design group, digital, social media and communications specialists, and project managers. Attached is a brief overview of some specific ideas we believe municipalities could benefit from. We call it the Mechanics of Inclusion and it includes: A Municipal User-Experience Audit; Breaking 50 (voter turnout program); and, Engaged Neighbourhoods. If you would like a copy of Dave’s book to get a full understanding of his and ASG’s capabilities and conceptual grounding, let us know and we’d be happy to send one along. Over the last few years, democracies have seen firsthand the vulnerability of our democratic institutions and their fundamental underpinnings. Strengthening our democratic institutions is the responsibility of all those who believe in them. We respectfully request: • That you refer this correspondence to the appropriate municipal staff in public engagement, communications or election services to facilitate further dialogue. • Alternatively, we would be happy to present to Council or an appropriate standing committee. • Of course, we welcome the opportunity to set up a virtual meeting with any interested members of Council to discuss how ASG can help your municipality improve your local democracy. Sincerely, John Armstrong, President, mailto:[email protected] Armstrong Strategy Group Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 82 of 122 The Mechanics of Inclusion A healthy democracy should feel accessible, comfortable and understandable to ordinary citizens. Every aspect of the system can be dissected and assessed based on how it impacts these three necessities. Any democratic process can feel inviting, alienating or even invisible, depending on how it is designed. Small, overlooked flaws can collectively serve as significant obstacles to participation. Just as a city’s multi-million-dollar sewer system can get blocked by wet wipes and dental floss, a democracy too can be clogged when the smallest details coalesce into layers of obstruction. When we allow a culture of disengagement to become the norm, with most people simply tuning out local democracy, then only the angriest voices will participate. Town Hall meetings tend to look more like shouting matches rather than a constructive discussion. By boosting participation levels, we also boost people’s trust and confidence in the system, which can greatly improve the tone of conversation. If we want to create a culture that invites people in rather than pushing them away, the first step is to open the doors—both physical and metaphorical. Municipal User-Experience Audit Armstrong Strategy Group offers a comprehensive audit for municipal governments to identify democratic barriers and opportunities to boost public participation and public confidence in their local leaders. ASG can offer concrete recommendations and, working together with your staff, develop a practical implementation guide. We can assess and assist with a variety of areas and systems including: . Public communications . Physical meeting spaces . Election services . Online accessibility . Social media practices . Signage Breaking 50 Municipal elections in Ontario have lower voter turnout than our provincial or federal elections, with participation rates averaging 42% and registering as low as 16%. At Armstrong Strategy Group, we believe that every municipality should make a concerted effort to break the 50% barrier, and that starts by assessing the design of local elections through a User-Experience lens and making the adjustments necessary to better engage, inform and encourage voters to participate in the municipal election process. Participation rates are informed by the following four factors: Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 83 of 122 • The public’s understanding of municipal government • Voter awareness in regard to the election, and local issues • Voter knowledge of the candidates and platforms • Convenience and accessibility of the voting method(s) Each of these areas can be designed with an intent to boost awareness and participation. Engaged Neighbourhoods A community is defined not only by the buildings, amenities and landscape, but by the people who live there and how they interact with each other. Local neighbourhood engagement is the lifeblood of municipal democracy. But it requires healthy community groups who are informed, plugged-in, are truly representative of the neighbourhood and come together to build and support their neighbourhoods rather than just opposing change. Armstrong Strategy Group believes that positive neighbourhood engagement can be advanced through planning and support from the municipality. ASG recently completed a mapping project for the Barrie and District Association of Realtors, creating a comprehensive database of existing neighbourhood groups and an interactive online map. The second phase will bring neighbourhood Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 84 of 122 groups together to share ideas, build more engagement and capacity in neighbourhoods across the community. The project was based loosely on the Dave Meslin’s Toronto Atlas of Neighborhood Groups and Organizations (TANGO), which serves as a gateway to civic participation. The primary goal of such efforts is to dramatically increase the likelihood of every resident knowing they can be engaged and involved in their neighbourhood or community and the decisions that affect the places they care most about. Both the Toronto and the Barrie projects are easily replicable for any municipality by customizing the project for the specific needs of your residents and your unique neighbourhoods. Vibrant communities have vibrant neighbourhoods. Good planning takes municipalities part of the way, the Engaged Neighbourhoods program takes the next step. Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 85 of 122 Township of The Archipelago 9 James Street, Parry Sound ON P2A 1T4 Tel: 705-746-4243/Fax: 705-746-7301 www.thearchipelago.on.ca February 19, 2021 21-033 Moved by Councillor Manners Seconded by Councillor Andrews ______ RE: Request that Minister Clark review the Municipal Elections Act and provide amendments to provide clearer, stronger wording to assist Municipal Clerks in addressing issues to allow for a more definitive decision to be made when adding names to the voters’ list WHEREAS the Township of The Archipelago recognizes that the current language in the Municipal Elections Act with regards to non-resident electors, is weak and ambiguous; AND WHEREAS the Township of The Archipelago wishes to ensure the integrity of the election process; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Council of the Corporation of the Township of The Archipelago hereby request that the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, the Honourable Steve Clark, initiate a review of the Municipal Elections Act and make amendments to provide such clearer, stronger wording, to assist Municipal Clerks in addressing issues related to non-resident electors, and to allow for a more definitive decision to be made when adding names to the voters’ list; AND FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED that Council of the Corporation of the Township of The Archipelago request that the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, the Honourable Steve Clark, ensure that there is a clear and accessible way to enforce the rules described in the Municipal Elections Act; AND FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED that this resolution be sent to the Premier of Ontario, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Norm Miller MPP, all Ontario Municipalities and the Association of Municipalities of Ontario. Carried. 1 Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 86 of 122 Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 87 of 122 312915 Dereham Line R. R. # 1, Mount Elgin, ON N0J 1N0 Phone: (519) 877-2702; (519) 485-0477; Fax: (519) 485-2932 www.swox.org January 11, 2021 Premier Doug Ford Legislative Building, Queens Park Toronto, ON M7A 1A1 Dear Premier Ford: Speeding on provincial, county and municipal roadways continues to put the lives of Ontarians at risk. While we have access to several tools to help mitigate speeding traffic, the one tool that is currently not fully available to us is Automatic Speed Enforcement (ASE) (aka Photo Radar). Over the past decade, in South West Oxford the vast majority of charges laid are for drivers travelling well in excess of the posted speed limit. The cost of providing police time for something that could be done through the use of technology is disturbing to our council. The Council feels that it would be far more effective to have police concentrate on other problems such as Break and Enters, illegal drugs and domestic problems. We need a way to address the poor behaviours and habits that are putting our citizens at risk and tying up much needed first responder resources that could be better utilized to improve the well-being of our communities. Speeding, particularly through our small villages, creates community concerns for the safety and wellbeing of our children and other vulnerable members. We need your help. In keeping with this The Council of the Township of South-West Oxford duly moved and carried the following resolution at the regular meeting held on January 5, 2021: …RESOLVED that the Council of the Township of South-West Oxford provide direction to the Clerk to send a letter to the Premier, MPP Ernie Hardeman, AMO and all Ontario municipalities in support of the use of Automatic Speed Enforcement (photo radar) by municipalities. Please help municipalities in the Province by passing the necessary regulations for municipalities to use ASE (if they choose) that will bring about the driving behavioural changes we need. We look forward to your help with this issue. Yours truly, Mary Ellen Greb, CAO c.c. AMO, Honourable Ernie Hardeman, Ontario Municipalities A leader in the development and delivery of municipal services for the growth and well-being of our community Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 88 of 122 Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 89 of 122 8348 Wellington Road 124 P.O. Box 700 Rockwood ON N0B 2K0 Tel: 519-856-9596 Fax: 519-856-2240 Toll Free: 1-800-267-1465 February 8, 2021 Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing 17th Floor, 777 Bay Street Toronto, ON M7A 2J3 Attention: The Hon. Steve Clark Re: Advocacy for Reform – MFIPPA Legislation At the Township of Guelph/Eramosa’s Regular Meeting of Council held on Monday February 1, 2021, the following resolution was put forward and passed: Be it resolved that the Council of the Township of Guelph/Eramosa has received Clerk’s Department Report 21/03 regarding Advocacy for Reform – MFIPPA Legislation; and That that the following motions be passed in support of a request to review and reform of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act: WHEREAS the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act R.S.O. 1990 (MFIPPA) dates back 30 years; AND WHEREAS municipalities, including the Township of Guelph/Eramosa, practice and continue to promote open and transparent government operations, actively disseminate information and routinely disclose public documents upon request outside of the MFIPPA process; AND WHEREAS government operations, public expectations, technologies, and legislation surrounding accountability and transparency have dramatically changed and MFIPPA has not advanced in line with these changes; AND WHEREAS the creation, storage and utilization of records has changed significantly, and the Municipal Clerk of the Municipality is responsible for records and information management programs as prescribed by the Municipal Act, 2001; Jenni Spies Tel: 519-856-9596 Deputy Clerk [email protected] Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 90 of 122 AND WHEREAS regulation 823 under MFIPPA continues to reference antiquated technology and does not adequately provide for cost recovery, and these financial shortfalls are borne by the municipal taxpayer; AND WHEREAS the threshold to establish frivolous and/or vexatious requests is unreasonably high and allows for harassment of staff and members of municipal councils, and unreasonably affects the operations of the municipality; AND WHEREAS the Act fails to recognize how multiple requests from an individual, shortage of staff resources or the expense of producing a record due to its size, number or physical location does not allow for time extensions to deliver requests and unreasonably affects the operations of the municipality; AND WHEREAS the name of the requestor is not permitted to be disclosed to anyone other than the person processing the access request, and this anonymity is used by requesters to abuse the MFIPPA process and does not align with the spirit of openness and transparency embraced by municipalities; AND WHEREAS legal professionals use MFIPPA to gain access to information launch litigation against institutions, where other remedies exist; AND WHEREAS there are limited resources to assist administrators or requestors to navigate the legislative process; AND WHEREAS reform is needed to address societal and technological changes in addition to global privacy concerns and consistency across provincial legislation; BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Ministry of Government and Consumer Services be requested to review the MFIPPA, and consider recommendations as follows: 1. That MFIPPA assign the Municipal Clerk, or designate to be the Head under the Act; 2. That MFIPPA be updated to address current and emerging technologies; 3. That MFIPPA regulate the need for consistent routine disclosure practices across institutions; 4. That the threshold for frivolous and/or vexatious actions be reviewed, and take into consideration the community and available resources in which it is applied; 5. That the threshold for frivolous and/or vexatious also consider the anonymity of requesters, their abusive nature and language in Jenni Spies Tel: 519-856-9596 ext. 107 Deputy Clerk [email protected] Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 91 of 122 requests to ensure protection from harassment as provided for in Occupational Health and Safety Act; 6. That the application and scalability of fees be designed to ensure taxpayers are protected from persons abusing the access to information process; 7. That administrative practices implied or required under the Act, including those of the IPC, be reviewed and modernized; 8. That the integrity of the Act be maintained to protect personal privacy and transparent governments. Please accept this for your information and any necessary action. Sincerely, Jenni Spies Deputy Clerk Cc. Ted Arnott, MPP Wellington-Halton Hills Michael Chong, MP Wellington-Halton Hills Minister of Consumer Services Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario Association of Municipalities of Ontario Association of Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario Ontario Clerks Jenni Spies Tel: 519-856-9596 ext. 107 Deputy Clerk [email protected] Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 92 of 122 La Corporation de la Municipalité de / The Corporation ofthe Municipality of ST.CHARLES C.P. / Box 70, 2 King Street East St.-Charles ON POM 2W0 Tel: 705-867-2032 Fax: 705-867-5789 www.stcharlesontario.ca MOVED BY: Councillor Monica Loftus SECONDED BY: Councillor Richard Lemieux RESOLUTIO NO. 2020-255 BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council for the Corporation of the Municipality of St.-Charles hereby supports the Resolution passed by the Municipality of Tweed on August 25, 2020 regarding Cannabis Production Facilities, the Cannabis Act, and Health Canada Guideline. CARRIED I, Tammy Godden, Clerk of the Municipality of St.-Charles, do certify the foregoing to be a true copy of Resolution No. 2020-255 passed in a Regular Meeting of Council of The Corporation of the Municipality of St.-Charles on the 9"‘ day of December 2021. mmy n Clerk Municipality of St.-Charles this 22”“day of February 2021 Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 93 of 122 Municipality of Tweed Council Meating ResolutionNo. _ Title: County of Hastings and County of Lennox & Addington Date: Tuesday, August 25, 2020 M0V6 d by J. Flieler Seconded by J. Palmateer WHEREAS the Government of Canada passed the Cannabis Act S.C. 2018, c. 16legis|ation legalizing properties to grow a maximum of 4 plants without a licence; and WHEREAS Health Canada issues licences for medicinal cannabis production that are specific to set properties without municipal consultation and regardless of land use zoning by-laws; and WHEREAS pharmaceutical companies and industries are required to follow strict regulations and governing legislation to produce medicinal products including Narcotic Control Regulations C.R.C., c 1041 and Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (Police Enforcement) Regulations SOR/9-234; and WHEREAS Municipalitiesare authorized under the Planning Act, R.S.0. 1990, C. P 13 to pass a comprehensive zoning by-law that is in compliance with the appropriate County Official Plan which must be in compliance with the Provincial Policy Statement, Under The Planning Act, 2020; and WHEREAS the Provincial Policy Statement, Official Plan and Zoning By-Law in effect for each area is designed to secure the long-term safety and best use of the land, water and other natural resources found in that area's natural landscape; and WHEREAS the Municipality of Tweed has passed Comprehensive Zoning By-Law 2012-30 and further amended it by the Cannabis Production By-Law2018-42, limitingcannabis production facilities to rural industrial zoned lands with required setbacks from residential zoned properties; and WHEREAS the Municipality of Tweed has not been consulted by Health Canada prior to the issuance of licences for properties not in compliance with the Municipal zoning by-laws for a cannabis production facility; and WHEREAS the Province needs to amend legislation to establish a new Provincial Offence Act fine regime that creates an offence(s) when unlicenced cannabis operations break planning and environmental regulations, ignore Building Code requirements and build without a permit at a fine of at least $100,000 per offence; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVEDTHAT the Municipality of Tweed requests that immediate action be taken by all levels of government for medical cannabis licencing to follow similar regulations and guidelines as all other pharmaceutical industries; AND FURTHER, that the Association of Municipalitiesof Ontario advocate with the Federation of Canadian Municipalities for advocation to the Government of Canada for similar regulations and guidelines for medical cannabis licencing in alignment with other pharmaceutical industries; AND FURTHER, that the distribution of medical cannabis be controlled through pharmacies in consistency of all other medications; Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 94 of 122 ANDFURTHER, that Health Canada withhold licencing until the potential licence holder can provide evidence of acceptable zoning of the intended property in question; ANDFURTHER, that licenced locations be disclosed in advance to the municipalities hosting the licenced locations; and AND FURTHER, that this resolution be circulated to the Prime Ministerof Canada, Health Canada, the Premier of the Province of Ontario, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, the Ontario Provincia Police, the Association of Municipalitiesof Ontario, and all upper, lower and single tier municipalitiesl within the Province of Ontario. rried Defeaie d by a Tie efaated és._ J any Mayor Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 95 of 122 February 19, 2021 Mr. Graydon Smith, President The Association of Municipalities of Ontario 200 University Ave., Suite 801 Toronto, Ontario M5H 3C6 Dear Mr. Smith: Re: Closure of the Ontario Fire College in Gravenhurst The Township of Tiny Council recently reviewed correspondence dated January 14, 2021, from the Office of the Fire Marshal regarding the pending closure of the Ontario Fire College in Gravenhurst, Ontario. The Ontario Fire College provided fire service training to hundreds of municipal fire departments, like ours, who do not have the capacity or resources to provide their own in-house training for specialized programs. Should the Office of the Fire Marshal continue to develop fire fighter training curriculum, municipalities will now bear the cost for its use and delivery. The alternative use of Regional Training Centres, for specialized training, will be at a significant cost to municipal fire departments, including room and boarding expenses. With the closure of the Ontario Fire College and the lack of provincial or federal funding for volunteer fire departments for much needed training, it puts municipalities at risk. We ask that reconsideration be given to the closure of the Ontario Fire College, at the very least, until a plan is in place to support municipalities with the resources and funding that is required to adequately train and support its fire fighters. The Corporation of the Township of Tiny George Cornell Mayor cc. The Hon. Sylvia Jones, Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services Ontario Municipalities Jill Dunlop, MPP, Simcoe North Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 96 of 122 ft ^ TOWNSHIP OF SOUTH FRONTENAC ^ 1«> , February 23, 2021 The Honourable Doug Ford Premier of Ontario Legislative Building Queen's Park Toronto ON M7A 1A1 Dear Premier: Re; Joint and Several Liability Insurance The Council ofthe Township of South Frontenac passed the following resolution at their regular meeting held January 26, 2021: "That South Frontenac Council support the resolutions ofthe Municipality of Charlton and Dack and the Township of Larder Lake and the recommendations outlined in each resolution; and That this resolution be circulated to the Premier, Minister of Finance, Attorney General and all other Ontario Municipalities. Carried." South Frontenac Council agrees that there is a need for a new model of full proportionate liability and enhancements to the existing limitations period. A copy of both resolutions is attached. We look forward to receiving notification of any action taken in this matter. Yours truly Honourable Peter Bethlenfalvy, Minister of Finance Honourable Doug Downey, Attorney General of Ontario All Ontario Municipalities "Natural, Vibrant and Growing - a Progressive Rural Leader" Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 97 of 122 THE CORPORATION OFTHE TOWNSHIP OF LARDER LAKE 69 Fourth Avenue, Larder Lake, ON Phone: 705-643-2158 Fax: 705-643-2311 MOVED BY: . ^ Y SECONDED BY: Motion#:- 1-1Thomas Armstrong D Thomas Armstrong Resolution #: [ff a Patricia Hull D PatriciaHull Date: January 12. 2021 . a paul Kelly ,WHEREA^theeo"llc:il "flh<" Tuw"slup ('n-''rcler I-akc SUPP°"s the resolution oflhc Muiucipality of Charl'on andDack. reyuesling that(lie Province ofOntario aiidress niunicipal insurancecostTAnd" WHEREAS, the Association ofMunicipalilies ofOntario Outlined seven recommendation to address insurance issues includine: 1.The provincial government adopt a modeloH-uil proportionate liability to replace joint and severa! liability. 2. Impleinciitcnhaiiceinent. s toihe exi. stinglimitations period includir. B tliecoiitiiiuecl applicability uf llieexisting (10) day mlecii slip and tail cases given recent juuicial interpretationsandwhdhera' ane-ycar Ijmitatioii puriod inay be bciiet'icial. 3. Implement a cap for economic loss awards. 4' lrop!"c defaul! '":.". rt1 c^aMlilel;ata3 ""l''";mt:"1 !" limit to S2 million ;ind inci-casc the third-part)' liabilitycoverage lo $2 niiilioii hi sowmmenl regalaiud autoiiKibile insi» Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 98 of 122 TEL: (705)-544-7525 MUNICIPALITY OF FAX: (705)-544-2369 info@charltonanddack. com c,^^ CHARLTON AND DACK www.charltonanddack. com January 7th, 2021 The Honourable Doug Ford Premier of Ontario Sent by email: doug. fordco@pc. ola.org RE: MOTION REGARDING - Insurance The following resolution was passed by the Council for the Municipality ofCharlton and Dack on December 18th, 2020: WHEREASthe cost ofmunicipal insurancein the Province of Ontario has continuedto increase - with especially large increasesgoing into 2021. ANDWHEREAS Joint and SeveralLiability continues to askproperty taxpayers to carry the lion's share of a damage award when a municipality is found at minimum fault; AND WHEREASthese increases areunsustainable and unfair and eat at critical municipal services; AND WHEREAS the Association of Municipalities of Ontario outlined seven recommendations to addressinsurance issues including: 1. Theprovincial government adopta modelof full proportionate liability to replace joint and several liability. 2. Implement enhancements to the existing limitations period including the continued applicability of the existing 10 day rule on slip andfall cases given recent Judicial interpretations and whether a 1 year limitation periodmay be beneficial. 3. Implement a capfor economic loss awards. 4. Increase the catastrophic impairment default benefit limit to $2 million and increase the thirdparty liability coverage to $2 million in government regulated automobile insurance plans. 5. Assess and implement additional measures whichwould support lower premiums or alternatives to the provision of insurance services by other entities such as nonprofit insurance reciprocals. 6. Compel the insurance industry to supply all necessary financial evidence including premiums, claims and deductible limit changes -which support its 287237 Sprucegrove Road Englehart, ON POJ1HO Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 99 of 122 fl^vfi.tiv'i wsai \^Ktsl andmunicipal arguments as to the fiscal impact ofjoint and several liability. 7. Establish a provincial andmunicipal -working group to consider the above andput forward recommendations to the Attorney General. THEREFOREBE IT RESOLVEDTHAT the Councilfor the Municipality ofCharlton and Dock call on the Province of Ontario to immediately review these recommendations and to investigate the unethicalpractice ofpreferred vendors who arepaid substantial amounts over industry standards, despite COVID 19 delays, as insurance premiums will soon be out of reach for many communities. AND FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED THAT this motion be provided to the Honourable DougFord, Premier of Ontario, the Honourable Rod Phillips, Minister of Finance, the Honourable Doug Downey, Attorney General of Ontario, the Honourable John Vanthof, MPPfor Timiskaming- Cochrane, and all Ontario municipalities. Yours Truly, Dan Thlbeault Clerk Treasurer CAO Municipality ofCharlton and Dack CC: Honourable Peter Befhlenfalvy, Minister ofFinance Honourable Doug Downey,Attorney General of Ontario Honourable John Vanthof, MPP for Timiskaining- Cochrane All Ontario Municipalities 287237 Sprucegrove Road Englehart, ON POJ1HO Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 100 of 122 Municipal Offices: 66 Charlotte Street Port Colborne, Ontario L3K 3C8 · www.portcolborne.ca T 905.835.2900 ext 106 F 905.834.5746 Corporate Services Department E [email protected] Clerk’s Division February 24, 2021 Sent via E-mail: [email protected] The Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario Legislative Building, Queen’s Park Toronto, ON M7A 1Y7 Dear Premier Ford: Re: Resolution – Ontario Fire College Closure Please be advised that, at its meeting of February 22, 2021, the Council of The Corporation of the City of Port Colborne resolved as follows: WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College Campus has been in operation in Gravenhurst since 1958; and WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College Campus is one of the primary sources of certified training for Ontario Firefighters; and WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College Campus has built a reputation of integrity, credibility, and reliability in providing some of the best training to our Fire Services within the Province of Ontario; and WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College Campus has been used to train and certify both Volunteer, Part-Time and Career firefighters throughout Ontario; and WHEREAS the Regional Training Centers are not all created equal and similar in function to the Ontario Fire College Campus; and WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College Campus gives Ontario Firefighters another option other than Regional Training Centers to obtain National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) certifications; and WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College Campus is the most cost-effective method for municipalities to certify Firefighters to NFPA Standards in Ontario; and …2 Page 1 of 2 Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 101 of 122 WHEREAS the Ontario Government enacted and revoked 0. Reg. 379/18: Firefighter Certification in 2018; and WHEREAS when the Ontario Government revoked 0. Reg. 379/18: Firefighter Certification, it was made known by the Office of the Solicitor General that the act would be amended and brought back in the future; and THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the City of Port Colborne requests that the Province of Ontario reverse their decision to close the Ontario Fire College Campus in Gravenhurst as the OFC is one of the best and most cost-effective methods for municipalities to train their firefighters which assists us in protecting our residents; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT this Resolution is forwarded to the Honourable Doug Ford Premier of Ontario, the Honourable Sylvia Jones; Ontario Solicitor General, the Honourable Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, the Ontario Fire Marshal; Jon Pegg, and all municipalities within the Province of Ontario. Your favourable consideration of this request is respectfully requested. Sincerely, Amber LaPointe City Clerk ec: Honourable Sylvia Jones, Ontario Solicitor General Honourable Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Jon Pegg, Ontario Fire Marshal Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) Ontario Municipalities Page 2 of 2 Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 102 of 122 The Corporation of the Township of Strong PO Box 1120 28 Municipal Lane Sundridge, ON P0A 1Z0 705-384-5819 (p) 705-384-5892 (f) www.strongtownship.com February 25, 2021 The Right Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario Legislative Building Queen's Park Toronto ON M7A 1A1 Via Email: [email protected] RE: Request that the Province of Ontario Reverse Decision to Close the Ontario Fire College Campus in Gravenhurst Dear Premier Ford, Please be advised that at their last regular meeting on February 23, 2021, the Council of the Corporation of the Township of Strong supported the following resolution: “Resolution R2021-041 Moved By: Jeff McLaren Seconded by: Jody Baillie WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College Campus has been in operation in Gravenhurst since 1958; and WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College Campus is one of the primary sources of certified training for Ontario Firefighters; and WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College Campus has built a reputation of integrity, credibility, and reliability in providing some of the best training to our Fire Services within the Province of Ontario; and WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College Campus has been used to train and certify both Volunteer, Part-Time and Career firefighters throughout Ontario; and WHEREAS the Regional Training Centers are not all created equal and similar in function to the Ontario Fire College Campus; and WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College Campus gives Ontario Firefighters another option other than Regional Training Centers to obtain National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) certifications; and Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 103 of 122 WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College Campus is the most cost-effective method for municipalities to certify Firefighters to NFPA Standards in Ontario; and WHEREAS the Ontario Government enacted and revoked 0. Reg. 379/18: Firefighter Certification in 2018; and WHEREAS when the Ontario Government revoked 0. Reg. 379/18: Firefighter Certification, it was made known by the Office of the Solicitor General that the act would be amended and brought back in the future; and THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Corporation of the Township of Strong hereby requests that the Province of Ontario reverse their decision to close the Ontario Fire College Campus in Gravenhurst as the OFC is one of the best and most cost-effective methods for municipalities to train their firefighters which assists us in protecting our residents; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT this Resolution is forwarded to the Honourable Doug Ford Premier of Ontario, the Honourable Sylvia Jones; Ontario Solicitor General, the Honourable Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, the Ontario Fire Marshal; Jon Pegg, and all municipalities within the Province of Ontario Carried” Your attention to this matter is greatly appreciated. Sincerely, Caitlin Haggart Clerk Administrator BM/ec cc: Honourable Sylvia Jones, Ontario Solicitor General Honourable Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Ontario Fire Marshal Jon Pegg Ontario Fire College – Gravenhurst Campus All Ontario Municipalities Sundridge Strong Fire Chief Andrew Torrance Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 104 of 122 February 25, 2021 Honourable Doug Ford Premier of Ontario Premier's Office, Room 281 Legislative Building, Queen's Park Toronto, ON M7A 1A1 Dear Honourable Ford: On February 23, 2021 Council for the Town of Mono passed the following resolution regarding the impending closure of the Ontario Fire College campus in Gravenhurst, Ontario. Resolution #8-4-2021 Moved by Ralph Manktelow, Seconded by Sharon Martin WHEREAS the Province of Ontario wishes to close the Ontario Fire College (OFC) located in Gravenhurst; and WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College is one of the primary sources of certified training for Ontario Firefighters; and WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College has built a reputation of integrity, credibility, and reliability in providing some of the best training to our Fire Services within the Province of Ontario; and WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College has been used to train and certify both Volunteer, Part-Time and Career firefighters throughout Ontario; and WHEREAS many our firefighters are volunteers who are on call 24/7/365 with day jobs and families that expect them to come home safely each and every time; and WHEREAS municipalities are mandated to have fire departments, yet there is no provincial or federal funding for fire departments for much needed equipment and training; and WHEREAS the Regional Training Centers are not all created equal and similar in function to the Ontario Fire College; and WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College gives Ontario Firefighters another option other than Regional Training Centers to obtain National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) certifications; and WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College is a cost-effective method for municipalities to certify Firefighters to NFPA Standards in Ontario; and P: 519.941.3599 E: [email protected] 347209 Mono Centre Road F: 519.941.9490 W: townofmono.com Mono, ON L9W 6S3 Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 105 of 122 WHEREAS the Ontario Government enacted and revoked 0. Reg. 379/18: Firefighter Certification in 2018; and WHEREAS when the Ontario Government revoked 0. Reg. 379/18: Firefighter Certification, it was made known by the Office of the Solicitor General that the act would be amended and brought back in the future. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council for the Town of Mono requests that the Province reverse their decision to close the Ontario Fire College as it is one of the best and most cost-effective methods for municipalities to train their firefighters which assists us in protecting our residents. If the Province chooses not to reverse its decision to close the Ontario Fire College, the Province should provide direct financial support to municipalities to offset the increase training costs of providing Provincially mandated fire fighting services. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT this Resolution is forwarded to the Honourable Doug Ford Premier of Ontario, the Honourable Sylvia Jones; Ontario Solicitor General, the Honourable Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, the Ontario Fire Marshal; Jon Pegg, and all municipalities within the Province of Ontario. "Carried" Respectfully, Fred Simpson Clerk cc: Hon. Sylvia Jones, Solicitor General & MPP Dufferin-Caledon Hon. Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Jon Pegg, Ontario Fire Marshal All Ontario Municipalities P: 519.941.3599 E: [email protected] 347209 Mono Centre Road F: 519.941.9490 W: townofmono.com Mono, ON L9W 6S3 Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 106 of 122 Township of The Archipelago 9 James Street, Parry Sound ON P2A 1T4 Tel: 705-746-4243/Fax: 705-746-7301 www.thearchipeIa_qo.on.ca February 19, 2021 21-036 Moved by Councillor Andrews Seconded by Councillor Barton RE: Ontario Fire College — Planned Closure WHEREAS Council has received a request for support of a resolution enacted by the Town of Parry Sound regarding the planned closure of the Ontario Fire College in Gravenhurst; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Council for the Township of The Archipelago supports the resolution enacted by the Town of Parry Sound, and hereby requests that the Province of Ontario reverse their decision to close the Ontario Fire College as the OFC is one of the best and most cost—effective methods for municipalities to train their firefighters which assists us in protecting our residents; and FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario; the Honourable Sylvia Jones, Ontario Solicitor General; Norm Miller,Member of Parry Sound Muskoka; Jon Pegg, Ontario Fire Marshal, District of Parry Sound municipalities, ROMA, OSUM and AMO. Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 107 of 122 Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 108 of 122 Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 109 of 122 Corporation of the Municipality of West Grey 402813 Grey Road 4 RR 2 Durham, ON N0G 1R0 519-369-2200 February 24, 2021 Re: Municipal Insurance Rates West Grey Council passed the following resolution at the February 16, 2021 council meeting: The Council of the Corporation of the Municipality of West Grey hereby supports the resolution of The Municipality of Grey Highlands dated January 22, 2021 wherein they call on the Province of Ontario to review the seven recommendations of AMO to investigate the following municipal insurance issues, as insurance premiums will soon be out of reach for many communities: 1. The provincial government adopt a model of full proportionate liability to replace joint and several liability. 2. Implement enhancements to the existing limitations period including the continued applicability of the existing 10-day rule on slip and fall cases given recent judicial interpretations and whether a one-year limitation period may be beneficial. 3. Implement a cap for economic loss awards. 4. Increase the catastrophic impairment default benefit limit to $2 million and increase the third-party liability coverage to $2 million in government regulated automobile insurance plans. 5. Assess and implement additional measures which would support lower premiums or alternatives to the provision of insurance services by other entities such as non-profit insurance reciprocals. Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 110 of 122 6. Compel the insurance industry to supply all necessary financial evidence, including but not limited to, premiums, claims and deductible limit changes which support its own and municipal arguments as to the fiscal impact of joint and several liability. 7. Establish a provincial and municipal working group to consider the above and put forward recommendations to the Attorney General; and That this motion be provided to the Premier of Ontario, Minister of Finance, Attorney General of Ontario, MPP for Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound and all municipalities in Ontario. Sincerely, Genevieve Scharback, Director of Administration / Clerk Municipality of West Grey www.westgrey.com Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 111 of 122 Norfolk County Officer of the Mayor Governor Simcoe Square 50 Colborne St., S. Simcoe, Ontario N3Y 4H3 519-426-5870 Fax:519-426-7633 norfolkcounty.ca February 23, 2021 The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson Minister of Environment and Climate Change House of Commons Ottawa, ON K1A 0A6 The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food House of Commons Ottawa, ON K1A 0A6 Dear Ministers, I am writing to advise that Norfolk County Council supports the attached Norfolk County Agricultural Advisory Board’s letter regarding the application of the carbon tax on primary agriculture producers. It is the recommendation of Norfolk County Council that the Federal Government consider the concerns of the agricultural community and move to exempt all primary agriculture producers from current and future carbon taxes. Please find attached the full recommendation. Thank you for your attention, Yours truly, Kristal Chopp Mayor, Norfolk County P.c. Norfolk County Council Association of Municipalities of Ontario Federation of Canadian Municipalities Ontario Municipalities Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 112 of 122 Dec 7, 2020 The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, MP Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food House of Commons Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0A6 Dear Minister Bibeau Our agricultural advisory board (AAB) who represents the agricultural sector in Norfolk County, Ontario is very concerned about the federal government’s current carbon pricing policies. It is our hope that you consider our concerns and move to exempt all primary agriculture producers from current and future carbon taxes. Carbon tax remains as a major cost of production for producers in Norfolk County. Although some farm fuel purchases are exempt, it is selective and does not meet the needs of the entire agriculture industry. Currently crop drying, heating/cooling of livestock barns and cooling of perishable commodities are still subject to full carbon taxes. Currently there are no replacements for fossil fuels in agricultural production. As a result, carbon tax policies are not appropriate for the agricultural sector and only decrease farm margins. Norfolk County which is known as Ontario’s garden is home to one of the country’s largest diversity of crop production. In addition to the extensive vegetable, fruit and grain production it boasts some of the highest ecological diverse natural habitats, plants and animals in Canada. There is approximately 25% tree cover in the county which is the highest percentage of forested land in Southwestern Ontario. Norfolk County It is also home to over 10,000 acres of woodlots and wetlands protected under Long Point Conservation Authority. In addition to the natural woodlots and wetlands there is also extensive fruit production with 2000 acres of apples and 1000 acres of sour cherries. A mature orchard can fix upwards of 18 mt of C02 annually. The adoption of production practices to protect the soil and environment are advanced in Norfolk County. There has been a wide implementation of cover cropping, planting green and reduced tillage practices all of which sequester carbon. Additional farming practices of 4R nutrient management coupled with precision technology ensure that appropriate nutrients are applied at the right time, place and rate. In many cases sensitive water sources around ponds and wetlands are planted with buffer strips and soil erosion control measures of grassed waterways and windbreaks are also common practices. ALUS (alternative land use) programs have been embraced across the county, taking unproductive land out of production, and returning it to natural native grass plantings, trees and constructed wetlands. Currently there are 1148 active projects with 189 producers covering 1573 acres in Norfolk County managed under the ALUS program. Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 113 of 122 The agriculture industry has made great strides to protect the environment and will continue to improve production practices that reduces the carbon footprint in food production. The AAB board believes that all on farm fuels used in agricultural production should be exempt from carbon tax. This should include natural gas, propane, gas, and diesel. We strongly urge the government to be consistent with a sector wide exemption to current carbon tax policies. Sincerely, Dustin Zamecnik Chair of Norfolk County Agriculture Advisory Board Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 114 of 122 Subject: Message from the Honourable John Yakabuski, Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry Ministry of Natural Ministère des Richesses Resources and Forestry naturelles et des Forêts Office of the Minister Bureau du ministre Room 6630, Whitney Block Édifice Whitney, bureau 6630 99 Wellesley Street West 99, rue Wellesley Ouest Toronto ON M7A 1W3 Toronto (Ontario) M7A 1W3 Tel: 416-314-2301 Tél.: 416-314-2301 354-2021-108 March 2, 2021 His Worship Phil Harding Mayor Township of Muskoka Lakes [email protected] Dear Mayor Harding: Thank you for your letter to Premier Doug Ford, the Honourable Jeff Yurek and me, requesting that a process be initiated to update the Muskoka River Water Management Plan (MRWMP), and offering suggestions to help mitigate or eliminate flooding for this spring. I have copied your co-signers. I appreciate the solution-focused spirit of the recommendations and I would like to share with you that, as a result of standard winter drawdown operations by ministry staff at Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) structures, water levels are currently half-way between the Target Operating Line and the lower Normal Operating Zone for many lakes in the Muskoka River watershed system – including Lake Muskoka. These water levels are responsive to item #4 in your letter. Muskoka River Watershed Communications Committee As committed to in our Flooding Strategy, we have enhanced our engagement with municipalities and other watershed partners in both the Muskoka and the Magnetawan river watersheds. The purpose of these sessions is to provide a forum for water managers to share real-time information about the factors considered in water management and for the group to engage in discussion about the available options, implications and trade-offs of water management decisions. I understand that some of the short-term requests that you and your colleagues have brought forward in your letter of January 22, 2021 were discussed at the Muskoka River Watershed Communications Committee on February 3, 2021. Further to these written Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 115 of 122 requests, I also understand that elected officials on the call requested that MRWMP operators consider and implement a more significant winter drawdown, to the lower allowable limit within the Normal Operating Zone. While the intention of this would be to further mitigate damage to properties during the spring freshet, careful consideration must be given to the potential impacts and consequences of these actions – including to local infrastructure, fish and wildlife, power production and summer water levels, which were also discussed at the February 3rd meeting. In order for me to consider taking additional steps to target lower water levels further within the Normal Operating Zone, it would be necessary to know that we have the full support of all the District of Muskoka Mayors, and that municipalities have fully considered the risks of a such a drawdown. As such, please submit a written request outlining the specific actions (i.e., further drawdown to the bottom of the Normal Operating Zone) endorsed by the elected officials copied herein. It is also essential that we communicate these actions, the limitations, potential risks and our mutual agreement and acknowledgement of this to the public, so that they can take necessary steps. As you know, the freshet could begin at any time so I encourage you to submit any further requests in a timely manner. I encourage you to continue attending the Communications Committee meetings to engage in a collaborative dialogue to discuss operational options, impacts and trade- offs with facility operators, including any additional steps that can be taken in 2021. Amendment to the MRWMP The ministry remains committed to engaging the public on the management of the Muskoka watershed through a public process that considers a wide range of interests and uses, including property owner, recreation, natural environment, navigation and waterpower production. While I appreciate that you are seeking solutions in the short-term, changes to the limits of the Normal Operating Zone outlined in a Water Management Plan must follow an open and transparent process, including public and Indigenous consultation, so that potential impacts can be considered. The amendment process is the opportunity for the public to understand and respond to potential impacts. Given this, it will not be possible to amend operations outlined in the MRWMP by spring 2021. Any changes to the MRWMP must be evidence-based and consider all possible implications, including potential cascading impacts across the watershed. Muskoka Watershed Conservation and Management Initiative The government recently approved the release of funds for the Muskoka Watershed Conservation and Management Initiative. One of the proposed projects would be to support third-party hydrological modelling and assessment of the Muskoka River Watershed. Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 116 of 122 A hydrological assessment has the potential to provide independent, professional consideration of a number of important topics including: • Effectiveness of the specific operational proposals raised by the municipalities of the Muskoka watershed, and choke points; • Identification of climate changes impacting the Muskoka system and how this can be better considered when developing flood mitigation tools; • Exploration of opportunities to develop and implement models/systems that could enhance flood forecasting; and, • Enhancement of public understanding of the watershed system including factors that contribute to flooding and non-structural mitigation options. Results of such a study could provide advice on meaningful, mitigative actions for the Muskoka River watershed system, including valuable information regarding whether operational changes to the MRWMP could be effective in achieving the desired outcomes to mitigate flooding. I encourage you to continue to collaborate with the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) regarding how an independent study could be funded and scoped to consider the suggestions you have raised. Water Levels As you are aware, the operating range of the current Muskoka watershed is broad. Water levels are currently within the normal operating range, and MNRF continues to draw down the water level in keeping with daily monitoring of water and snow levels. We are working closely with our dam infrastructure partners, including the Town of Bracebridge, to achieve a smooth and efficient winter drawdown. I want to thank you for sharing information regarding your local data collection initiative. As we have discussed previously, dams in the Muskoka watershed are not flood control structures and the Special Advisor on Flooding found that “It is unreasonable to expect that water levels can be controlled within a finite range and be kept below the damage level of docks and boathouses, or other structures, when dealing with a large river system with limited means to mitigate the magnitude and extent of flooding.” I appreciate the information you have shared, however, it is not reasonable, nor an objective of the Muskoka River Water Management Plan, to manage water levels in a manner that would mitigate flooding of infrastructures built within water systems (e.g., docks). We know that we can’t prevent flooding – but we can be better prepared for it. If you have any questions, please contact Adam Wakefield, District Manager, Parry Sound District, at [email protected] or 705-346-0676. Thank you again for writing. Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 117 of 122 Sincerely, John Yakabuski Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry c: Premier Doug Ford The Honourable Jeff Yurek, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks Mayor Carol Moffatt, Township of Algonquin Highlands Mayor Graydon Smith, Town of Bracebridge Mayor Peter Koetsier, Township of Georgian Bay Mayor Paul Kelly, Town of Gravenhurst Mayor Karin Terziano, Town of Huntsville Mayor Terry Glover, Township of Lake of Bays Reeve Angela Friesen, Township of McMurrich/Monteith District Chair John Klink, District of Muskoka Mayor Ann MacDiarmid, Township of Seguin Adam Wakefield, District Manager, Parry Sound District Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail contains information intended only for the use of the individual whose e-mail address is identified above. If you have received this e-mail in error, please advise us by responding to it. Please also destroy all copies of this message. Thank you Avis de confidentialité : Ce courriel contient des renseignements à l’usage exclusif de la personne à l’adresse courriel ci-haut. Si vous avez reçu ce courriel par erreur, veuillez nous en informer en répondant. Veuillez aussi détruire toutes les copies de ce message. Merci. Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 118 of 122 44816 Harriston Road, RR 1, Gorrie On N0G 1X0 Tel: 519-335-3208 ext 2 Fax: 519-335-6208 www.howick.ca March 3, 2021 Premier Doug Ford By email only [email protected] Dear Premier Ford: Please be advised that the following resolution was passed at the March 2, 2021 Howick Council meeting: Moved by Deputy Reeve Bowman; Seconded by Councillor Hargrave: Whereas, the Province of Ontario has announced that as of March 31, 2021 the Gravenhurst campus of the Ontario Fire College will be permanently closed; and Whereas, the Province of Ontario announced plans to modernize and expand access to firefighter training in Ontario; and Whereas, there has been no clear plan communicated by the Province of Ontario on how to obtain firefighter training in the absence of the Ontario Fire College campus; and Whereas, there has been no clear plan communicated by the Province of Ontario on how firefighter training in Ontario will be modernized and expanded; and Whereas, there has been no clear plan communicated by the Province of Ontario regarding the costs or funding for modernized and expanded firefighter training in Ontario; and Whereas, the Township of Howick is a small rural municipality that operates a volunteer fire department to provide fire protection; Now therefore, be it resolved that Council respectfully request a clear plan be communicated that establishes how the Province intends to modernize and expand firefighter training ensuring equal access to all municipal fire departments in Ontario, and as well, present a plan for funding to subsidise and or regulate the cost for firefighter training in the Province of Ontario. Carried. Resolution No. 59/21 If you require any further information, please contact this office, thank you. Yours truly, Carol Watson Carol Watson, Clerk Township of Howick Cc Solicitor General Sylvia Jones Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson Ontario Fire Marshal Jon Pegg Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs Mark McDonald AMO President Graydon Smith All Ontario Municipalities Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 119 of 122 Administration Office of the Regional Clerk 1815 Sir Isaac Brock Way, PO Box 1042, Thorold, ON L2V 4T7 Telephone: 905-685-4225 Toll-free: 1-800-263-7215 Fax: 905-687-4977 www.niagararegion.ca March 4, 2021 CL 4-2021, February 25, 2021 PHSSC 2-2021, February 16, 2021 Minute Item No. 5.1, February 16, 2021 MEMBERS OF THE ASSOCIATION OF MUNICIPALITIES OF ONTARIO (AMO) SENT ELECTRONICALLY Motion respecting Homelessness, Mental Health and Addiction in Niagara Minute Item No. 5.1 Regional Council, at its meeting held on February 25, 2021, approved the following resolution from its Public Health and Social Services Committee: WHEREAS Niagara Region prides itself as being a caring and compassionate community that continually strives to be a place where people want to live, work and play; WHEREAS providing access to safe, adequate and affordable housing for everyone is fundamental to achieving that goal; WHEREAS Niagara Region acknowledges that mental health, mental illness, addiction and homelessness, while important issues, are not homogenous, interchangeable or consistently interconnected, and doing so may over simplify exceptionally complex issues that require targeted policy solutions and intervention; WHEREAS Niagara Region’s 10-year Housing and Homelessness Action Plan (HHAP), A Home For All, outlines the Region’s vision, challenges, and the actions required to achieve its goals; WHEREAS Niagara Region has embarked on an ambitious effort to end chronic homelessness through participation in the national Built for Zero campaign; WHEREAS Regional Council formally adopted Mental Health and Wellbeing (2.2) and Addressing Affordable Housing Needs (2.3) as strategic priorities for the current term of our Council; WHEREAS a recent KPMG report commissioned by Niagara Region indicated that Council invests more levy funding than its peers into homelessness, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to addressing the issue; WHEREAS Niagara Region acknowledges that people living in shelters are part of the crisis and not the solution; WHEREAS Niagara Region has two planned housing projects that would directly address those in Niagara who experience chronic homelessness; Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 120 of 122 Motion Respecting Homelessness, Mental Health and Addiction in Niagara March 4, 2021 Page 2 WHEREAS the implementation plan for Council’s strategic objectives states that staff will identify gaps within the mental health system to increase the functionality and collaboration within it; WHEREAS the same implementation plan directed staff to partner with Ontario Health (formally the LHIN) to review the local landscape to identify opportunities, including new investment; WHEREAS the treatment and supports for mental illness, addiction, and homelessness are predominantly funded and directed by the Province; WHEREAS the success of the Region’s Housing and Homelessness Action Plan is dependent on a commitment of sustained and increased funding (both operational and capital) from all levels of government to address the issues of housing insecurity and homelessness in Niagara; and WHEREAS the needs of the community far outweigh Niagara Region’s available resources and funding required to effectively address these issues, and the support of both the Provincial and Federal governments are needed to meet these needs. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT: 1. That Niagara Region Council officially ACKNOWLEDGE that a significant crisis exists in Niagara in regard to the prevalence of chronic homelessness and the lack of affordable housing that far surpasses the Region’s ability to meet the vision dictated in its 10-year Housing and Homelessness Action Plan (HHAP); 2. That the Regional Chair BE DIRECTED to send advocacy letters directly to the appropriate Federal and Provincial ministries outlining Niagara’s current situation and requesting additional funding be provided to ensure Niagara can meet the vision outlined in its housing action plan; 3. That the Regional Chair BE DIRECTED to advocate to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing and the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development for the required operational funding for the planned supportive and bridge housing initiatives; 4. That Regional staff BE DIRECTED, in alignment with the planned review of Council’s strategic priorities, to produce a report specifically highlighting the progress being made and critical gaps in regard to services related to mental health, addictions and wellbeing; 5. That Regional staff BE DIRECTED to continue providing Regional Council updates on the HHAP and Built for Zero initiatives; 6. That Regional staff BE DIRECTED to request an update from the Overdose Prevention and Education Network of Niagara (OPENN) regarding the current status of the actions being taken to address addiction related issues in Niagara; and Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 121 of 122 Motion Respecting Homelessness, Mental Health and Addiction in Niagara March 4, 2021 Page 3 7. That a copy of this motion be sent to all members of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO). Yours truly, Ann-Marie Norio Regional Clerk :kl CLK-C 2021- 044 Correspondence – All correspondence listed below was received and is a m... Page 122 of 122