TOWN OF THESSALON COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA 6:30 P.M. June 21, 2021 W. J. BARRETT CHAMBERS, 187 MAIN STREET VIA. ZOOM Regular Meeting
i) Opening of the Regular Meeting
ii) Declaration of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof
iii) Adoption of Minutes of Previous Meetings
iv) Delegation: Rod MacIntrye – Hydro Meters at Lakeside Park
v) Business Arising from Minutes of Previous Meeting
vi) Letters and Communications for Action
1) Barbara Frasier – Elizabeth Rebekah Lodge & New Ontario Lodge 2) Cheryl MacKay – Trefry Senior of the Year Presentation 3) Craig Baird – Canadian History EHX Podcast Sponsorship 4) Pauline Clark –2022 Provincial Election Request 5) Municipal Economic Development Committee – Red Bridge Sign 6) Velvet Redmond Harten – Crime Stoppers Donation Request 7) Darlene McColman – Peace Park Washroom 8) Tony D’Agostino – 2021 Senior’s Community Grant 9) Town of Kingsville – Bill C-21 10) Peter Julian, MP – Motion M-84 & Private Members Bill C-313 11) Thessalon Community Events and Activities Committee – Minutes 12) Sustainability Through Environmental Practices Committee – Minutes 13) Planning Advisory Committee - Minutes vii) Letters and Communications for Information
1) Tyler Currie – Summer Experience Program 2) FONOM – Media Release 3) Northern Ontario School of Medicine – First Stand-alone Medical University in Canada 4) HNCEA – Spring 2021 Newsletter 5) Great Lakes National Program Office – Signing of ninth agreement 6) Gravel Watch Ontario -Green Belt Expansion 7) Michael Mantha, MPP – AMO Conference Delegation 8) Integrity Commissioner’s Report 9) Senior’s Healthy Aging AD HOC Committee – Note 10) Marina/Arena/Parks Committee – Minutes 11) Property Standards Committee – Minutes viii) Committee and Staff Reports
1) Jordan Bird (2) 2) Ken Seabrook 3) Kristen Lawrence (2) 4) Marykaye Karhi 5) Deborah Rydall (2) 6) Robert MacLean (3) ix) General Business
1) By-law 2432 – Seniors’ Healthy Aging Committee 2) By-law 2433 – Stewardship Youth Ranger Program 3) By-law 2434 – Confirmatory x) Closed Session
That Council proceed in Closed Session:
1) in order to address personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees, and specifically, 1) a matter involving compensation, etc. for an employee, and 2) the selection of the Municipal Economic Development Committee Secretary
2) in order to address litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board and specifically, to consider a claim involving damage as a result of a sewer back-up.
xi) Passing of Confirmatory By-law xii) Adjournment
Please Remember To Mute Your Cell Phone and Refrain From Texting
TOWN OF THESSALON COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA – PAGE 4 6:30 P.M. June 21, 2021 W. J. BARRETT CHAMBERS, 187 MAIN STREET VIA. ZOOM
Town of Thessalon is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting. Topic: Council Meeting Time: Jun 21, 2021 06:30 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84562215354?pwd=OGh1MTJtM2FtUEFRdE52RD RsQlFTZz09
Meeting ID: 845 6221 5354 Passcode: 199061 Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kes1UP07Ek
2021-07 COUNCIL May 17, 2021
THESE MINUTES ARE THE INTERPRETATION OF THE RECORDER ONLY AND ARE NOT OFFICIAL UNTIL APPROVED BY COUNCIL!
The Mayor declared the Regular Meeting open at 6:30 p.m. Present in the W. J. Barrett Chambers were, Mayor Bill Rosenberg, Clerk-Treasurer Robert MacLean, Town Superintendent Ken Seabrook and Administrative Secretary Lindsay MacFarlane. Attending via Zoom included Deputy Mayor Jordan Bird, Councillors Marcel Baron, Tracey Cooke, Randy Rankin and Linda Stopes and Lindsay Tallon.
Declaration – Closed Session: None
Delegation: Liana Bacon, Kathy Horgan, Cara Holtby, Cindy Coulliard Paul Prosperi, and Steve May from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing gave a presentation on Affordable Housing.
Nathan Dool and Alicia Burgoyne of BDO gave a presentation on the 2020 Audit.
Resolutions:
2021-07-01: Tracey Cooke – Marcel Baron: “Be it resolved that the minutes from the Regular Council Meeting held on April 19, 2021 be adopted.” CARRIED
2021-07-02: Tracey Cooke – Jordan Bird: “Be it resolved that the minutes from the Special Council Meeting held on May 3, 2021 be adopted.” CARRIED
2021-07-03: Jordan Bird – Linda Stopes: “Be it resolved that Council approve the 2020 Financial Statements.” CARRIED
2021-07-04: Jordan Bird – Marcel Baron: “Be it resolved that the Council of the Town of Thessalon authorize a donation in the amount of $150.00 for a graduating student from Grade 8 from the Town of Thessalon.” CARRIED
2021-07-05: Jordan Bird –Randy Rankin: “Be it resolved that the Council of the Town of Thessalon authorize a donation in the amount of $300.00 for a graduating student from Grade 12 from the Town of Thessalon with the donation to be at the discretion of the Graduation Committee.” CARRIED
2021-07 COUNCIL May 17, 2021 Page 2
2021-07-06: Marcel Baron – Lindsay Tallon: “Be it resolved that, further to the OPP detachment board framework, the Town of Thessalon supports the three board structure and recommends that the new OPP detachment board for our area be formed consisting of the Township of Tarbutt, the Township of Johnson, the Town of Bruce Mines, the Township of Plummer Additional, the Town of Thessalon and if interested, the Municipality of Huron Shores, and further, that this Council authorizes the City of Elliot Lake to submit the proposal on our behalf.” CARRIED
2021-07-07: Tracey Cooke – Marcel Baron: “Be it resolved that, as requested by the Alzheimer Society of Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma District, Council authorize the sale of tickets within the municipality for the Forget Me Not Raffle, with the money raised to be used to purchase education resources, and to pay for research and recreation therapy.” CARRIED
2021-07-08: Tracey Cooke – Linda Stopes: “Be it resolved that the Council of the Town of Thessalon supports the 2021 Census, and encourages all residents to complete their census questionnaire online at www.census.gc.ca, as accurate and complete census data support programs and services that benefit our community.” CARRIED
2021-07-09: Jordan Bird – Randy Rankin: “Be it resolved that the Council of the Town of Thessalon supports the resolution passed by the Council of the Town of Fort Erie that the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks consider legislative changes that would permit the expansion of source water protection to aquifers and private services, and further, that this resolution be forwarded to the Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario, the Honourable Jeff Yurek, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, Michael Mantha, MPP, Algoma-Manitoulin and to the Town of Fort Erie.” CARRIED
2021-07 COUNCIL May 17, 2021 Page 3
2021-07-10: Marcel Baron – Lindsay Tallon: “Be it resolved that the Council of the Town of Thessalon supports the resolution passed by the Municipality of Calvin that the Federal and Provincial Government include apparatuses, training, equipment and structures for fire departments as eligible categories to any further infrastructure programs which will not only provide immediate stimulus to the local, provincial and federal economies given current economic uncertainty but also ensure the safety of Canadians and dedicated firefighters; and further that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario, the Honourable Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, the Honourable Laurie Scott, Minister of Infrastructure, Carol Hughes, MP, Algoma-Manitoulin- Kapuskasing, Michael Mantha, MPP, Algoma-Manitoulin, the Ontario Fire Marshal, Jon Pegg, and to the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs.” CARRIED
2021-07-11: Lindsay Tallon – Tracey Cooke “Be it resolved that the Council of the Town of Thessalon endorse Resolution 21-073 from the Township of The Archipelago regarding road management action on invasive phragmites, and that a copy of this resolution be sent to the Minister of Transportation, Christopher Balasa, Manager, Maintenance Management Office, the Ontario Minister of Environment, Conservation and Parks and the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Canada, Michael Mantha, MPP, Algoma-Manitoulin and to the Township of The Archipelago.” CARRIED
2021-07-12: Marcel Baron – Randy Rankin: “Be it resolved that the request from Vomar Industries for a 20 lb. Propane Cylinder exchange program at the Thessalon Esso located at 10 Lakeside Drive, be approved.” CARRIED
2021-07-13: Marcel Baron – Jordan Bird: “Be it resolved that By-law 1800 Schedule ‘A’ Temporary Containment Unit 30 Day Permit be updated to be titled a Sea Container (Sea-Can) 30 Day Permit.” CARRIED 2021-07-14: Lindsay Tallon – Linda Stopes: “Be it resolved that the opening of Thessalon Lakeside Park be changed from May 9th to the second Friday in May, commencing in 2022 and continuing each year thereafter, with the closing date to remain the same at September 30th, and with a memo to be circulated to the residents advising them of the change.” CARRIED
2021-07 COUNCIL May 17, 2021 Page 4
2021-07-15: Lindsay Tallon – Marcel Baron: “Be it resolved that the Site Rules for Seasonal Trailers be amended adding section 21, ‘Tampering with hydro meters in any way will result in eviction from the Park’ and section 22, ‘It is expected that our staff be treated with respect and kindness; behaviour or language that is disruptive, abusive or threatening will not be tolerated and will result in a written warning, and if it continues, eviction from the Park.” CARRIED
2021-07-16: Lindsay Tallon – Linda Stopes: “Be it resolved that, further to a request from the Seasonal Park Resident in Site 16 to access the now vacant Seasonal Site 17 and pay an additional $500 for the use of that site, a response be emailed advising that the request has been denied as the vacant site will be available for future rental.” CARRIED
2021-07-17: Lindsay Tallon – Jordan Bird: “Be it resolved that the Thessalon Marina/Arena/Parks Committee send a letter to a Seasonal Park Resident advising him that the Committee has been made aware that he drove his truck and boat trailer through the ditch at Lakeside Park to access his seasonal site when the Park was not officially open, with the letter noting that the individual was trespassing and damage to the property was incurred, and adding that future behavior like this will not be tolerated, and will result in eviction from the Park.” CARRIED
2021-07-18: Jordan Bird – Linda Stopes: “Be it resolved that the Accounts Payable to May 17, 2021 in a total amount of $279,634.81 be approved for payment, noting that for any member of Council who has declared a pecuniary interest with regard to any account, their approval is based on this account(s) being excluded from the total accounts payable.” CARRIED
Declaration: Councillor Randy Rankin declared a conflict of interest relating to the Rankin Supply account and the North Shore Sentinel account.
2021-07-19: Jordan Bird – Lindsay Tallon: “Be it resolved that an application be completed through Infrastructure Canada – Green and Inclusive Community Buildings Funding for new ice making equipment that will service both the Thessalon Memorial Community Arena and the Thessalon Curling Rink in the amount of $850,000, with the Town’s share being $170,000.” CARRIED 2021-07 COUNCIL May 17, 2021 Page 5 2021-07-20: Jordan Bird – Linda Stopes: “Be it resolved that the resignation from Lucie Harvey as secretary of the Municipal Economic Development Committee be accepted with regret, and that a letter of thanks be sent to her for the excellent services she provided, and further, that the process be commenced to replace this position.” CARRIED
2021-07-21: Marcel Baron – Randy Rankin: “Be it resolved that the Town of Thessalon Spring Clean Up be held on June 1, 2021.” CARRIED
2021-07-22: Lindsay Tallon – Jordan Bird: “Be it resolved that Council approves the financial contribution to support the Marina Renovation Plus Addition project for $132,225, and as well, that Council hereby commits to cover any cost overruns with regard to this project with all fiscal support to come from the Infrastructure Reserve.” CARRIED
2021-07-23: Jordan Bird – Marcel Baron: “Be it resolved that the Mayor and Clerk-Treasurer be authorized to sign, on behalf of the municipality, an application for funding, and related documents for the Pavilion for Events with Accessible Washroom project through Round 2 of the Healthy Communities Initiative.” CARRIED
2021-07-24: Tracey Cooke – Marcel Baron: Be it resolved that Council acknowledge receipt of the Committee and staff reports.” CARRIED
2021-07-25: Marcel Baron – Randy Rankin: “Be it resolved that By-law Number 2428, being a by-law prohibiting earth pit privies, pail privies, and privy-vaults in the Town of Thessalon and establishing the maximum time frames for the placement of portable privies, be passed in open Council this 17th day of May, 2021.” CARRIED
2021-07-26: Jordan Bird – Lindsay Tallon: “Be it resolved that By-law Number 2429, being a by-law for the purpose of establishing tax ratios for 2021, be passed in open Council this 17th day of May, 2021.” CARRIED
2021-07 COUNCIL May 17, 2021 Page 6 2021-07-27: Jordan Bird – Linda Stopes: “Be it resolved that By-law Number 2430, being a by-law to adopt the 2021 budget including the municipal levy of $1,451,700 and to provide for the adoption of tax rates and to further provide for penalty and interest in default of payment thereof for 2021, be passed in open Council this 17th day of May, 2021.” CARRIED
2021-07-28: Tracey Cooke – Marcel Baron: “That Council proceed in Closed Session:
1) in order to address personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees, and specifically, to discuss and make a recommendation regarding the applicants for the Seniors’ Healthy Aging Ad Hoc Committee
2) in order to address litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board and specifically, to consider a claim involving damage as a result of a sewer back-up.” CARRIED
2021-07-29: Tracey Cooke – Marcel Baron: “That Council resume Open Session.” CARRIED
2021-07-30: Jordan Bird – Linda Stopes: “Be it resolved that Jo Beyers, Mary Ellen Luukkonen, Dr. Janet McLeod, Alice Radley, France Schellekens and Mayor Bill Rosenberg be appointed to serve on the Seniors’ Healthy Aging Ad Hoc Committee.” CARRIED
2021-07-31: Randy Rankin – Lindsay Tallon: “Be it resolved that the Insurance Claims Examiner be advised of the recommendation of Council regarding the claim involving damage as a result of a sewer back-up, pending discussion with the Town solicitor.” CARRIED
2021-07-32: Tracey Cooke – Marcel Baron: “Be it resolved that By-law Number 2431, being a by-law to confirm the proceedings of the meeting of Council held on May 17, 2021, be passed in open Council this 17th day of May, 2021.” CARRIED
2021-07 COUNCIL May 17, 2021 Page 7 2021-07-33: Tracey Cooke – Marcel Baron: “That this meeting be adjourned at 8:45 p.m.” CARRIED
______MAYOR SEAL
______CLERK-TREASURER
DELEGATION
1) Rod MacIntyre – Rate Being Charged for Hydro Meters
Re: Rod MacIntyre Delegation
The following response was sent May 3, 2021 at 12:01 p.m.:
Thank you for your email.
Hydro meters were installed for each Seasonal site. The power usage is measured at the site breaker and the reading is uploaded to the connected meter box for that site.
The meters will be read at the end of June, August and the final reading will be September 30th, 2021.
The rate established was based on fees associated with the delivery of hydro.
I have enclosed a copy of the memo Seasonal campers received last year advising them of the installation of meters.
I trust this addresses your concerns.
From: Rod MacIntyre Sent: Saturday, April 24, 2021 7:55 AM To: TownOfThess
It has come to my attention that the Town of Thessalon has installed Power meters for the seasonal sites. I would like to question the rate being changed $0.23/kwhr. This seems to be higher than high peak(High demand) rates charged. I would like to know why. Most meters installed by Hydro companies in the retail business have time of use meters. Low usage time rates can be as low as $0.12/kwhr to high demand at $0.22kwhr. why only one rate? Why are we paying more the than highest rate? We have been charged with a $200 deposit, when will we get our bill Monthly or at the end of the season?
I can understand the need to recoup the cost of the installation and I can also understand the need to control the power used by each camper paying frothier usage. I hopefully make those who leave their appliances running (A/C) while they are away form the site (more than a few hours)
I don’t have problem with meters and pay for what you use but I do have an issue with paying a flat rate higher than the peak demand. Where are the meters located? Are they at every Camp site? If not why am I paying for the losses form the meter to where I plug my trailer in?
Thanks for taking the time to get me the answers to these questions I would be available to discuss on site or at a council meeting (virtual) if requested Please call if your have any questions
Thanks again
Rod MacIntyre
LETTERS AND COMMUNICATIONS FOR ACTION
Box 146, May 10, 2021 Thessalon, On
Mr. Bill Rosenberg, Mayor, Town of Thessalon, Thessalon, On
Dear Mayor Rosenberg,
This letter will address three issues: -the current status of The New Ontario Lodge #340 and Elizabeth Rebekah Lodge #339 -the status of the loan cupboard -the future of the I.O.O.F. hall
The New Ontario Lodge #340, also known as the Oddfellows, are in the process of giving up their charter. Membership is at a minimum and new members are not joining so this group will need to dissolve. Elizabeth Rebekah Lodge #339, too, has reduced membership with very few opting to join this group. With the COVID restrictions both groups have not been able to host fundraisers that allow them to support community projects and individuals or that support the payment of their bills.
At present, a loan cupboard is located within the I.O.O.F. hall. The demand for assistive devices for those with post surgeries and home care is still very much needed in the community and surrounding area. The loan of wheel chairs, rollators, walkers, canes, toilet and tub supports, crutches, etc. have all been done at no cost to the individual. Repairs and parts, as well as new equipment have all been paid for by the local Oddfellows and Rebekahs. However, the two groups are not able to continue this service due to the cost of liability insurance, the cost of maintenance of the equipment, and the reduced number of members to maintain the equipment and operate this service. The insurance was previously covered by the Central Humanitarian Services of the Oddfellow organization. However, this committee is closing at the end of this fiscal year (August) so insurance is no longer available and the local group cannot afford to buy it.
The I.O.O.F. hall’s ownership is currently being transferred from the New Ontario Lodge #340 to Elizabeth Rebekah Lodge #339. Both groups have been paying for the maintenance, taxes, insurance, heating costs, etc. of the hall. However, with only the Rebekahs to pay the bills, and their current reduced membership and limited fundraising opportunities, this is proving to be difficult. An assessment of the hall has been done by qualified engineers. Their report indicates that the hall needs some major repairs, a new roof being the most urgent. Before this can happen, structure damage and repairs will have to be done. Also, upgrades to the accessibility of the hall, such as washrooms, is required to meet government standards. All these costs are beyond the means of the Rebekah Lodge at this point. Although no firm decisions regarding the hall’s future status have been made, the Rebekahs are of the mind that they will not be able to maintain the cost of this building and yet they recognize the value of such a facility in the community.
Both the Rebekahs and Oddfellows have thought long and hard on the future of this old building. In conversation with other groups, such as the Lions, it is determined that a meeting facility and a place to host fundraisers is needed. However, a smaller more modern facility, that meets the needs of the community and current government and other safety measures would seem to be more efficient and practical. Also, it would be more cost efficient and could be self-supporting with rental potential. Perhaps, the answer is to tear down the current hall and build an entirely new facility. The Rebekahs do not feel, with their previously mentioned limited membership and funds, that they can do this. Yet, they know that the need is definitely there for public meetings, functions, and groups. The hall has been donated to or rented by groups such as the O.P.P., Elections Ontario and Canada, Lions, the Town of Thessalon for Hallowe’en parties and other recreational parties, by the Legion for Remembrance Day services, as well as weddings, funeral lunches, and other life celebrations. The hall outside of COVID is a VERY BUSY place. Perhaps, as once proposed, it could be a Hub in the community that would house the Food Bank, Child Care Algoma and other community services. The vision is there but who could on their own build, support and maintain such a facility?
Perhaps, it is time for the town to consider building and operating a community Hub or recreation facility that could be rented to groups and individuals and that is totally accessible and modern. Maybe, there are government grants that would support the municipality in such an undertaking that are not available to individual groups such as the Rebekahs. We would ask you to consider such a proposal and are willing to participate in whatever way we can.
Your time and consideration of this letter and its content is gratefully appreciated.
Yours truly, Barbara Frasier Secretary, Elizabeth Rebekah Lodge #339, New Ontario Lodge #340. From: Cheryl MacKay
Hi Everyone,
As you probably know, to celebrate Seniors’ Month the Trefry Centre normally hosts the Senior of the Year awards for all municipalities in our catchment area, as part of our June BBQ and Diners Club. Unfortunately, we are unable to hold this gathering again this year.
We would like to encourage you to continue to honour a special senior from your community this month and present the award in your own way. If you do, please take a photo of the presentation and send us the name of the award recipient so we can share it in our July What’s Up Doc newsletter and to the Trefry Centre Facebook page.
Check us out on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Trefrycentre , as we’re running a fun contest to celebrate Seniors Month with local prizes. Please share so members of your community can enter too.
Thanks, Cheryl
Kind regards, Cheryl MacKay
Cheryl MacKay, Transportation Coordinator Dr. Harold S. Trefry Memorial Centre Operating under The Corporation of the Township of St. Joseph 1601 C LINE, P. O. Box 158 Richards Landing, ON P0R 1J0 Tel: (705) 246-0036 Fax: (705) 246-0249 Email: [email protected] Website: stjosephtownship.com/departments/seniorservices/ CSS Health related Providers & Program Information and Referrals: www.northeasthealthline.ca Also check out: http://search.211north.ca Providing services to seniors and persons with disabilities that will assist them to remain in their own homes and maintain their dignity. Operating in memory of Dr. Harold S. Trefry and his service to this community from 1936 to 1960. Spring-Summer 2021
Town Sponsorship Podcast Episode
My name is Craig Baird and I run the podcasts Canadian History Ehx, From John To Justin and Canada's Great War. My main podcast Canadian History Ehx centres on all aspects of Canadian history, from the stories of the regular settlers to the tales of important Canadians and momentous events.
My podcast is currently one of the top history shows on Apple Podcasts and one of the top podcasts overall. Each day, I average between 1,500 and 2,000 downloads and push 50,000 – 80,000 downloads a month. Roughly 80% of my listeners come from Canada.
Last year I began a series that focused on the histories of small towns in the prairies, which the towns sponsored. Towns in the prairies have amazing histories that go back a century or more in many cases. From the people who founded the community to the people to the notable names and events in that community’s history, there is a story to tell.
Roughly 26 communities from Alberta to Manitoba signed on to have their community focused and to be a sponsor of that episode. I am happy to provide links to as many as you would like to listen to. Each sponsored episode would focus on the community’s history from its founding to today, as well as items about the interesting places to see and the things to do there today.
Each episode would include:
• The community’s history • Things to do in the area • Why someone should visit
The charge for these sponsorship episodes is $250 and that is a one-time fee. The
episode stays up forever on the podcast feed so it can be discovered months and even years after it airs, helping more people find out about the community long after the podcast episode airs.
The episode length, depending on content and interviews, would range between 15 minutes and 40 minutes.
As for my background, I have been doing this podcast since 2018 and prior to that I spent over a decade working as a journalist in British Columbia, Alberta and Saskatchewan. I work from home currently with this podcast on an acreage outside Edmonton. I also write weekly and monthly local history columns for newspapers in B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba.
I am available to talk over phone or Zoom to discuss this further or if there are any questions.
SINCERELY,
CRAIG BAIRD CANADIAN HISTORY EHX
From: Pauline Clark Sent: Wednesday, June 9, 2021 11:58 AM To: Robert MacLean
Hi Robert:
Further to our telephone conversation, I am sending a written request for use of the Town of Thessalon Council Chambers for the June 2, 2022 provincial election as well as for an advanced poll that would run May 21-27 inclusive. We would also request access to the room for setup on both May 20 from 5-8 pm. and on June 1 from 5-8 pm.
We are currently arranging for inspections of potential voting locations, to be conducted in the coming weeks. Inspection teams would take about 25-30 minutes to conduct the inspection and would follow any required Covid-19 restrictions.
Please confirm availability and permission at your earliest convenience. If approved, I will be in touch for some preliminary information before the team arranges a specific inspection time.
Thank you, Pauline Clark
Pauline Clark Returning Officer, Elections Ontario Algoma-Manitoulin: 705-255-4800 Elections Ontario elections.on.ca 1.888.668.8683 Fax: 416.326.6210
Council: Pauline has indicated that there is no compensation for the space on Election Day but there will be a fee paid for the Advance Poll days.
Robert
Council:
The Municipal Economic Development Committee has provided, for your approval, the following draft for the Red Bridge Information Sign.
Please Note: The above is a photo of the draft wording for the Red Bridge information sign. The draft wording has been provided below.
The Red Bridge Excerpts from The Algoma Advocate, a weekly newspaper established in 1887 and published in Thessalon, provides us with some insight leading up to and the construction of the Red Bridge, covering the period between June 1 and September 7, 1888.
“A public meeting of the ratepayers of Thessalon will be held in the Thessalon Hall on Saturday evening June 23, 1888 to decide, 1st the proper place for building a bridge over the Thessalon River, and 2nd, the best steps to take for raising funds to build the bridge.”
Mr. Boyd, Inspector of Colonization, Roads and Bridges went to Toronto to request that the Ontario Government construct a bridge across the Thessalon River in place of the one carried away by the spring floods.
The contract for the building of the bridge over the Thessalon River was awarded to Mr. Hepburn, with the work to be completed in six weeks at a cost of $945.00. Work began the week of August 17 and was completed the week of September 7, 1888. The bridge location was determined to be at Government Road and funding was noted in the sum of $250.00 from the Indian Department at Ottawa and the rate of taxation in the Thessalon Township increased to 2 ½ cents on the dollar.
On September 3, 2009, the bridge was raised and moved onto the east bank for retrofitting. The upgraded bridge was proudly returned to its new foundations on December 8, 2009 with the official ribbon cutting taking place on February 10, 2010.
May 31, 2021
Bill Rosenberg Town of Thessalon 187 Main Street, P.O. Box 220 Thessalon, Ontario P0R 1L0
Dear Mayor Bill Rosenberg,
My name is Velvet Redmond Harten. I am a director of Crime Stoppers of Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma District.
I recognize how fortunate we are to continue to serve our community during such a challenging time. We used the year 2020 to seek creative ways to generate tips that ultimately contribute to safety allowing our promotional efforts to emerge as our top priority.
Our Board of Directors emphasized public awareness and ensuring our efforts reached the district. In partnership with housing, we reached 4000 with the distribution of carabiners from Elliot Lake to Hornepayne. In partnership with Clean North, we distributed Illegal Dumping Signs. Additionally, we are working on distributing Crime Stoppers give-aways to all the police cruisers in Algoma District in partnership with the Ontario Provincial Police, Batchewana Police Service, and Anishinabek Police Service. All the efforts mentioned above are ongoing efforts that will continue in 2021 and beyond.
We are proud of our accomplishments in 2020! In addition to the outreach efforts, we recognized 1,115 new tips, 46 arrests, 32 cases cleared, 203 charges laid, 25 weapons recovered, $37,900 in property recovered, $42,650 in cash seized, and $485,315 in drugs seized. We paid our tipsters a total of $18,175 for arrest or successful conclusion.
I am writing to ask you to consider supporting Crime Stoppers with a $500 donation. Your donation will help us continue to boost awareness in the district.
Your support of our program ensures enrollment in our Friends of Crime Stoppers Membership including recognition on our website (for one year), signs, and decals for distribution. Please see an example of the metal signs below.
Thank you for considering this request. I will reach out on or before Monday, June 7, 2021, via phone to discuss this opportunity further.
Yours in service,
Velvet Redmond Harten Director
Crime Stoppers
Crime Stoppers is a charitable community program involving the cooperative efforts of law enforcement, the community, and the media and is based on the simple principle that for every crime committed, someone other than the criminal has information that would solve the crime.
The goal of Crime Stoppers is to empower people to make their neighborhoods, schools, and businesses safer through anonymous reporting of crime. We encourage people to contact Crime Stoppers with information to solve crimes already committed, ones about to occur, or even ones in progress and/or the whereabouts of wanted or missing persons, narcotics, or stolen property.
Citizens from the community may witness all or parts of a crime and have information that is the key to solving the crime but are reluctant to get involved and don't want to go to court.
In some cases, citizens have information but are hesitant to contact the police in fear of retaliation from the criminal. People from the community may not come forward with information because they are uncertain about who to contact in the police organization and what procedures to follow in supplying their information.
Crime Stoppers recognizes the reluctance of many citizens to become personally involved and guarantees anonymity to those who provide information. Crime Stoppers provides a method for the community to overcome these obstacles and yet become involved in solving crime.
Thus, Crime Stoppers assists citizens in making a worthwhile contribution to stopping crime without fear of retaliation or involvement in a lengthy legal proceeding. It also reduces apathy by offering a cash reward.
Crime Stoppers is an effective tool where the private citizen joins together with law enforcement to solve crime. To law enforcement, the Crime Stoppers program plays a vital role and represents a valuable and sharp-edged investigative too
From: Darlene McColman Sent: Thursday, June 10, 2021 7:06 AM To: TownOfThess
Good Morning,
Please direct this email to the Committee in charge and Council members.
Dear Committee and Council, Peace Park is a beautiful spot for outdoor enjoyment, however, it is in dire need of a bathroom facility as well as garbage receptacles.
The beach, playground and picnic area are used daily by many, many families and young people. Most people are very good at picking up after themselves, but let's face it, many don't if they don't have a bin located in the area they are in. It shouldn't be a difficult thing to re- locate one or two to that area.
A port-a-potty (until funding allows for a permanent toilet facility) located in the playground area is a must. Children can't always make it home, and let's face it some adults have been found themselves in need of a bathroom unexpectedly.
This beach is well used daily, please help the users keep it clean.
I look forward to your response.
Darlene McColman
Live...Love....Laugh
From: D'Agostino, Tony (MHSTCI/MSAA)
Project Priorities
1. Promote and support age-friendly community development 2. Strengthen the safety and well-being of older adults 3. Adapt and deliver programs and services to isolated older adults either virtually (e.g. internet or telephone-based programs) or in-person (following provincial guidelines) so they can stay active and socially engaged 4. Create safe opportunities for older adults to network and increase engagement in community labour markets through virtual mentoring, volunteerism, and training to support entrepreneurship
Grants are available for up to $25,000
Council: I have forwarded this information to Kristen as well. Since the deadline for applications is July 15, 2021 at 5:00 p.m., I will present a resolution to authorize the submission on an application. Robert
2021 Division Road North Kingsville, Ontario N9Y 2Y9 Phone: (519) 733-2305 www.kingsville.ca [email protected]
Sub-Item 3
SENT VIA EMAIL
March 25, 2021
The Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, MP Prime Minister of Canada Langevin Block Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0A2 Prime Minister:
RE: Bill C-21, An Act to amend certain Acts and to make certain consequential amendments (firearms)
At its Regular Meeting held on March 8, 2021 Council of the Town of Kingsville passed the following Resolution:
“205-2021 Moved By Councillor Thomas Neufeld, Seconded By Councillor Larry Patterson
A Resolution concerning Bill C-21, An Act to amend certain Acts and to make certain consequential amendments (firearms), specifically Amendment 26, Section (58.01 (1-8), Conditions-bylaw.
WHEREAS municipalities have never been responsible for gun control laws in Canada;
AND WHEREAS law abiding Kingsville residents who own legal handguns have already been thoroughly vetted through the CFSC, PAL and ATT applications;
AND WHEREAS illegal gun owners and smugglers do not respect postal codes;
AND WHEREAS if one municipality enacts a ban and not a neighbouring municipality, this will create a patchwork of by-laws;
AND WHEREAS a municipal ban would be difficult to enforce and easy to get around.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that The Corporation of the Town of Kingsville is OPPOSED to the adoption of any by-laws restricting the possession, storage and transportation of legally obtained handguns; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this resolution be forwarded to the following public officials: MP Chris Lewis-Essex, MPP Taras Natyshak-Essex, Premier of Ontario The Honourable Doug Ford, Leader of the Official Opposition Andrea Horwath, Prime Minister of Canada The Honourable Justin Trudeau, and Leader of Official Opposition The Honourable Erin O'Toole.”
If you require any further information, please contact the
undersigned. Yours very truly,
Sandra Kitchen Deputy Clerk-Council Services Legislative Services Department [email protected]
cc: Hon. Doug Ford, Premier cc: Hon. Andrea Horwath, Official Leader of the Opposition cc: Hon. Erin O’Toole, Official Leader of the Opposition cc: MP Chris Lewis- Essex cc: MPP Taras Natyshak-Essex cc: Hon. Bill Blair, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness cc: MP Shannon Stubbs cc: Mayor Aldo DiCarlo, Town of Amherstburg cc: Mayor Larry Snively, Town of Essex cc: Mayor Tom Bain, Town of Lakeshore cc: Mayor Marc Bondy, Town of LaSalle cc: Mayor Hilda MacDonald, Municipality of Leamington cc: Mayor Gary McNamara, Town of Tecumseh cc: all Municipalities in Ontario [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
June 17th, 2021 RE: Seeking your endorsement for Motion M-84 Anti-Hate Crimes and Incidents & Private Member’s Bill C-313 Banning Symbols of Hate Act Dear Mayor and Council, I am writing to you today seeking your endorsement of my House of Commons Motion M-84 Anti- Hate Crimes and Incidents and my private member’s legislation on Banning Symbols of Hate Act - Bill C-313. We are living in an unprecedented time. The killing of George Floyd in the U.S., and the deaths of Regis Korchinski-Paquet, a 29-year-old Indigenous-Ukrainian-Black Canadian woman, occurred in Toronto, and Chantel Moore, an Indigenous Canadian woman, was shot and killed by Edmundston police, New Brunswick police, who were called to perform a wellness check - were results of systemic racism. Since the start of the pandemic, there has been an alarming increase of anti-Asian racism and hate crimes in Canada and across North America. A new Angus Reid public opinion poll shows that nearly 50% of young Asian Canadians have experienced and been affected by anti-Asian racism and bigotry in the last year. Statistics Canada reported that in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, fear and misinformation about the virus may disproportionately impact the sense of personal and community safety of many people in Canada. The recent murder of the Muslim family in London, Ontario, was yet another reminder that hate and Islamophobia exist in Canada. We must take a strong stance against all forms of hate and racism against Black, Indigenous, People of Colour and Racialized communities. My Bill C-313 would prevent anyone from selling and displaying symbols that promote hatred and violence against identifiable groups. Julian says banning symbols of hatred like swastikas or Klu Klux Klan insignia is important for all Canadians to feel safe. I hope I can count on your endorsement to urge the federal government to immediately stop all forms of hate and all forms of discrimination, hate crimes and incidents as well as ending all display and sale in Canada of symbols of hate. Please consider using the following endorsement paragraph as a reply as soon as possible: On behalf of ______(Number of residents in your city), the Mayor and Council of ______(city name) endorse MP Peter Julian’s private member’s motion, Motion M-84 Anti- Hate Crimes and Incidents and his private member’s bill Bill-C 313 Banning Symbols of Hate Act. Thank you very much for your consideration. Please feel free to contact my Chief of Staff, Doris Mah, at 604-353-3107 if you require any further information. We look forward to hearing from you soon. sSncerely,
Peter Julian, MP New Westminster–Burnaby
Thessalon Community Events and Activities Committee May 19, 2021 THESE COMMENTS ARE THE INTERPRETATION OF THE RECORDER ONLY! Present: Chair Linda Stopes, Members, Tracey Cooke, Christa Lawrence, Donna Orlando, and Secretary Kristen Lawrence. Regrets: Members, Kimberly Box and Eve Webb. Chair Stopes opened the meeting at 4:00 p.m. Resolution No. 2021-02-01: Linda Stopes – Christa Lawrence: “Be it resolved that the minutes of the meeting of March 9, 2021 be adopted as presented.” CARRIED
Resolution No. 2021-02-02: Donna Orlando – Tracey Cooke: “Be it resolved that the Thessalon Community Events and Activities Committee recommend that Council approve an Activity Fitness Virtual event during the week of August Long Weekend.” CARRIED
Resolution No. 2021-02-03: Linda Stopes – Christa Lawrence: “Be it resolved that the Thessalon Community Events and Activities Committee recommend that Council approve a Vintage Car Parade on June 19th. CARRIED Resolution No. 2021-02-04: Donna Orlando – Linda Stopes: “Be it resolved that the meeting adjourned at 4:45 p.m.” CARRIED
The next meeting is to be on TBD. ______Chair ______Secretary
SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH ENVIRONMENTAL PRACTICES COMMITTEE May 19, 2021
THESE COMMENTS ARE THE INTERPRETATION OF THE RECORDER ONLY! Present: Chair, Jordan Bird, Members, Tracey Cooke, Kirby Horton, Tina Johncox, Cyndy King, and Secretary Kristen Lawrence. Regrets: N/A Chair Bird opened the meeting at 5:00 p.m. Resolution No. 2021-03-01: Jordan Bird – Kirby Horton: “Be it resolved that the minutes of the meeting of March 3, 2021 be adopted as presented.” CARRIED Resolution No. 2021-03-02: Tina Johncox – Cyndy King: “Be it resolved that the Sustainability Through Environmental Practices Committee recommend that Council approve purchased Rain Barrels and Composting Units be sold at ½ price to the public during 2021.” CARRIED Resolution No. 2021-03-03: Jordan Bird – Tina Johncox: “Be it resolved that the Sustainability Through Environmental Practices Committee recommend that Council approve that all paper and plastic garbage collected at Municipal buildings must be recycled.” CARRIED Resolution No. 2021-03-04: Cyndy King – Kirby Horton: “Be it resolved that the meeting be adjourned at 5:37 p.m.”
The next meeting is TBD
______Chair
______Secretary
THESSALON PLANNING ADVISORY COMMITTEE June 14, 2021 THESE MINUTES ARE THE INTERPRETATION OF THE RECORDER ONLY AND ARE NOT OFFICIAL UNTIL APPROVED BY THE COMMITTEE. Chair Jordan Bird declared the Regular Meeting open at 6:30 p.m. Present in the W. J. Barrett Chambers were Mayor Bill Rosenberg, member Tom Mills and secretary Lindsay MacFarlane. Attending via Zoom included Chair Jordan Bird, Councillor Marcel Baron, and member Kevin King. Delegation: None Resolution No. 2021-06-01: Kevin King – Bill Rosenberg: “Be it resolved that the minutes of the meeting on May 10, 2021 be adopted as presented.” CARRIED Resolution No. 2021-06-02: Marcel Baron – Tom Mills: “Be it resolved that the Committee recommend to Council that the request for the 640 square foot home on a residential lot further described as Plan 1M-533 Pt. Lot 1 be denied and that a letter be sent to the owner with Zoning By-laws guidelines as well as the Restrictive Covenants.” CARRIED Resolution No. 2021-06-03: Bill Rosenberg - Kevin King: “Be it resolved that the Planning Advisory Committee meeting be adjourned at 7:15 p.m.” CARRIED
______Jordan Bird, Chair
______
Lindsay MacFarlane, Secretary
LETTERS AND COMMUNICATIONS FOR INFORMATION
Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Ministère des Industries du Patrimoine, du Tourism and Culture Industries Sport, du Tourisme et de la Culture
Assistant Deputy Minister Sous-ministre adjoint Sport, Recreation and Division des sports, des loisirs et des Community Programs programmes communautaires Division 777, rue Bay, 18e 777 Bay Street, 18th étage Toronto ON Floor Toronto ON M7A 1S5 Tél. : 416 M7A 1S5 Tel.: 416 326-9326 326-9326 Téléc. : 416 314-7458 Fax: 416 314-7458 ATS : 416 325-5807 TTY: 416 325-5807
May 18, 2021
Kristen Lawrence Recreation Coordinator The Town ofThessalon 187 Main Street/Rue Thessalon, ON P0R1L0 [email protected]
Dear Mrs. Kristen Lawrence:
Re: Case Number: 2021-01-1-1475172849 Summer Experience Program 2021
I am pleased to inform you that your organization has been approved for a Summer Experience Program grant to hire one Summer Recreation Student for the summer of 2021. You will be receiving a grant in the amount of $3,723 in one instalment.
By signing and submitting the Ministry’s application form, you agreed to the general terms and conditions of this grant. As an employer, you are required to adhere to the Employment Standards Act, 2000, including paying no less than the minimum wage. For requirements around hiring your summer student(s) and reporting on the grant, please refer to the Summer Experience Program Guidelines.
In the current context of COVID-19, employers are responsible for becoming and remaining informed of municipal, provincial and federal public health information. Employers of Summer Experience Program students must abide by any orders, including provincial and municipal orders, applicable to them and relevant public health recommendations (e.g. physical distancing).
Tony D'Agostino, Regional Development Advisor assigned to your file, will contact you soon to determine the status of your project, including any changes to it or the intended utilization of funding. Any changes will have to be requested by submitting a change request form, which Tony can discuss with you. Tony can be reached at (705) 542-9209 or by e-mail at Tony.D'[email protected].
Congratulations and best wishes for success.
Tyler Currie Assistant Deputy Minister Sport, Recreation and Recognition Division
Media Release June 3, 2021
The Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM) would like to commend the Province of Ontario for taking a giant step forward in improving waste diversion and protecting the environment.
Today, Ontario's Environment Minister Jeff Yurek formally announced the final regulation to transition the Blue Box program from municipalities to producers. When fully implemented, this regulation will go a long way in addressing litter in our communities, reducing single-use plastics making their way into watercourses and expanding the Blue Box program into new communities in Northern Ontario.
“This regulation has been looked at by three consecutive governments. I would like to recognize Premier Ford and Minister Yurek for having the courage to introduce this regulation, which will not only benefit our environment but will remove the cost of the Blue Box program from property taxes,” stated FONOM President Danny Whalen
FONOM has been actively working for nearly a decade with AMO, M3RC, OWMA, and municipal staff from across the province on the framework for this regulation. Additionally, FONOM's membership has been instrumental in ensuring that all Northern and Rural Ontario (excluding those in the far north) is included in the transition.
"I would like to applaud the team that AMO assembled from across the province,” stated President Whalen. “Staff from the City of Toronto and other regions within southern Ontario were instrumental in ensuring Northern Ontario is included in the regulation."
The FONOM Board would like to thank AMO's Board and Staff for the advocacy on this file on behalf of our members. Monika Turner, Dave Gordon, and Amber Crawford have worked tirelessly on this issue with Stewards and the Government, along with FONOM’s own Councillor Mac Bain.
Some of the highlights of the Regulation are:
• Staggered transition from municipalities from 2023 to 2025 • Expanding collection to all communities outside the Far North by 2026; • Standardizes what can be recycled across Ontario; • Includes municipalities under 5,000 population • Accepting common single-use and packaging-like products such as paper and plastic cups, foils, trays, bags, and boxes sold for home use; • Collecting single-use items that are distributed or sold to consume food and beverage products, like stir sticks, straws, cutlery, and plates;
• Expanding services to more facilities such as apartment buildings, municipally run or non-profit long-term care homes and retirement homes, and schools; • Expanding collection to more parks, playgrounds, and transit stations, more than tripling the number of public space recycling bins funded under the current program so there are more opportunities to recycle at home and on the go. • Ensures existing deposit return programs such as The Beer Store will continue.
FONOM is an association of some 110 districts/municipalities/cities/towns in northeastern Ontario mandated to work for the betterment of municipal government in Northern Ontario and to strive for improved legislation respecting local government in the north. It is a membership-based association that draws its members from northeastern Ontario and is governed by an 11-member board.
Sincerely
Danny Whalen President 705-622-2479
NORTHERN ONTARIO SCHOOL OF MEDICINE
Media Release For immediate release – June 3, 2021
NOSM to Become First Stand-alone Medical University in Canada Social accountability mandate drives innovation in education and health care.
Today, the Government of Ontario passed legislation to make the Northern Ontario School of Medicine (NOSM) a university. With this status, NOSM becomes the first stand-alone medical university in Canada.
“This is a historic occasion for our medical school and all of Northern Ontario,” says Dr. Sarita Verma, Dean, President and CEO of NOSM. “We are grateful to Minister Romano and the Ford Government for this incredible transformation, as the first medical school in Canada founded with a social accountability mandate we are now the first medical university of its kind in the country.”
NOSM was established as a government strategy to address the health needs of the region, improve access to quality care, and contribute to the economic development of Northern Ontario. It was born of a grassroots movement, from communities across Northern Ontario advocating for a solution to regional health inequalities. Becoming a university translates that vision into a reality in the future.
Since opening its doors in 2005, NOSM has produced 714 MDs, 48 self-identify as Indigenous, 151 self-identify as Francophone with an additional 66 MDs set to graduate this spring. In addition, 579 residents have completed NOSM programs. More than half of these health practitioners have stayed in Northern Ontario, with the majority establishing their practice in Sudbury and Thunder Bay.
“The Government is proud to support this legislation to grow world-class postsecondary education in Northern Ontario. Thanks to this legislation, Hearst will become Ontario’s second independent Francophone university, governed by and for Francophones. NOSM will become Canada’s first standalone independent medical school and be empowered to expand its current services and programs and address the health needs of the region. The legislation represents a major opportunity for Northern Ontario to build and expand two new independent universities. In the coming months the Ministry will be working with the two institutions and with northern communities and stakeholders about the details of how NOSM and Hearst will operate in the future,” says Ross Romano, Minister of Colleges and Universities.
NOSM’s latest strategic plan, The NOSM Challenge 2025, will move forward with addressing the urgent crisis in physician workforce and health education and research reform.
“We will build upon the strength of our flagship campuses in Sudbury and Thunder Bay with an expanded medical school, new residency programs innovated health professional education, population based research within a pan-northern regional model. This is exciting for all of Northern Ontario,” says Dr. Verma. “NOSM University will have an immense impact on the health and wealth of Northern Ontarians.”
NOSM will begin broad consultations about the next steps over the summer months. More information about this will be communicated publicly in the coming weeks.
About the Northern Ontario School of Medicine (NOSM)
NOSM is an award-winning socially accountable medical school renowned for its innovative model of distributed, community-engaged education and research. With a focus on diversity, inclusion, and advocacy for health equity, NOSM relies on the commitment and expertise of the peoples and communities of Northern Ontario to educate health-care professionals to practise in Indigenous, Francophone, rural, remote and underserved communities.
• NOSM was established as a separate legal entity ‒ an independent not-for-profit corporation with its own Board of Directors. Its affiliation with Laurentian University and Lakehead University was for the purpose of conferring degrees. • Other than the degree granting authority, all other operational and academic aspects of the medical school are established under NOSM’s authority. • The NOSM MD program is independently accredited by the Committee on Accreditation for Canadian Medical Schools (CACMS) and the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME). NOSM’s accreditation will not change by becoming a university. • All degrees issued under the authority of Lakehead and Laurentian University in the past, will remain in good standing and not be affected.
About NOSM University
• Once legislation is proclaimed in force, NOSM University will form a new Board of Governors and new Senate. • NOSM University will continue to receive 90% of its operating funds directly from the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Colleges and Universities. • NOSM University will continue to handle the administration of its own staff and faculty, curriculum, labs and equipment, and provide support and graduate its own learners. It will continue to provide its own finance, IT, research, and libraries. • NOSM University will remain deeply committed to its partnerships with Indigenous, Francophone, rural and remote communities that have been critical to NOSM’s mission and success. • NOSM’s partnerships and collaborations with over 500 organizations, 90-plus communities, and more than 1,800 clinical, human and medical sciences faculty dispersed across all of Northern Ontario will continue. • NOSM has recently renewed affiliations with the two Academic Health Science Centres, Health Sciences North in Sudbury and Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre and
partners with Lakehead University, Laurentian University, Health Sciences North, Health Sciences North Research Institute, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre and Thunder Bay Regional Research Institute in the Northern Ontario Health Innovation Cluster. • As a University, NOSM will not be leaving Thunder Bay or Sudbury and will build on its collaborative relationships with Laurentian University and Lakehead University • NOSM will conduct extensive consultations with Northern Ontarians about the vision for NOSM University. • NOSM University will join some of the world’s highest ranked medical schools that are freestanding medical universities and all fully accredited including: Karolinska Institute in Sweden, the University of Vienna, the Mayo, and Kaiser Permanente institutions in the United States.
For further information, please
contact: Joanne Musico Director, Communications and External Relations Northern Ontario School of Medicine Cell: 705-919-1370 Email: [email protected]
HNCEA Spring 2021 Newsletter We are happy to welcome Amanda Harten to the HNCEA Team as Economic Development Officer. Amanda recently graduated from Algoma University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Finance and Economics with a minor in environmental sustainability. Community Development is an interest of hers and was concentrated upon throughout her studies.
Amanda is looking forward to bringing her knowledge and skills to HNCEA’s projects to help support communities as they grow their economies sustainably. Prior to joining HNCEA, Amanda had earned a diploma from Sault College and worked in the forestry sector as a Fisheries and Wildlife conservation technician. Amanda can be reached at [email protected] Here is what staff have been up to:
Website We have launched our website! Stop by for a visit at www.hncea.ca
Workshops We have an upcoming Grant Writing Workshop on June 1st at 10am. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about the funding application process and learn tips and tricks on what funders look for during the review process. To RSVP please email [email protected]
Economic Development Network We are continuing on with our quarterly EcDev Network Meetings. The purpose of these meetings is to have roundtable discussions on current Economic Development issues as well as provide updates on priorities and ongoing projects across the region. This results in an overall state of improved communication between organizations. If you or anyone in your community is interested in joining these discussions, please contact [email protected].
Broadband We are still waiting to hear back on applications submitted to the Universal Broadband Fund. The Rapid Response funding is sitting at 29% allocation and is expected to be fully allocated by the end of June/early July. Projects that have already received funding can be found here: https://crtc.gc.ca/eng/internet/select.htm
Agriculture We are currently recruiting for an Agricultural Advisory Committee. This committee will be composed of 6-9 individuals from within the sector who will help set development priorities. Individuals wishing to participate are encouraged to send a brief note of their interest and background to [email protected]
Tourism In partnership with Destination Northern Ontario and Laird Signs, we have developed a regional tourism guide that highlights natural attractions throughout the region. The guide will be available in both print and electronic versions. Copies of the printed version will be made available through local businesses and visitor centres.
Investment Readiness We revisited the data collected from meetings with communities and are in the process of building a regional investment attraction strategy. If we have not had the opportunity to meet with someone in your community to discuss investment readiness, please let us know when you have time to do so!
Thank you for your continued support. Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions, comments or concerns!
Best Regards, The HNCEA Team
From: Grands Lacs / Great Lakes (EC)
Today, the Governments of Canada and Ontario announced that they have signed the new Canada- Ontario Agreement on Great Lakes Water Quality and Ecosystem Health, which sets out specific actions each government will take to protect and restore the Great Lakes, such as preventing toxic and nuisance algae, improving wastewater and stormwater management, reducing plastic pollution and excess road salt, restoring native species and habitats, and increasing resilience to climate change.
This is the ninth agreement between the two governments and marks the 50th anniversary of the signing of the first Canada-Ontario Agreement in 1971. The agreement includes a renewed commitment to completing environmental clean-up actions with an emphasis on six historically degraded areas, conserving key habitats around the Great Lakes, and continuing to restore Lake Erie. It also includes a new focus on protecting Lake Ontario, supporting nature-based recreation opportunities, and strengthening First Nation and Métis engagement in the implementation of the agreement.
The Great Lakes have responded well to past protection efforts. Ontario and Canada’s commitments in the agreement recognize the importance of collective action and continuing to strengthen our work to protect and restore the Great Lakes.
Quotes
“The Great Lakes are an invaluable resource to millions of Canadians, holding more than a fifth of the world’s surface freshwater. Today’s new agreement, which marks 50 years of Canada-Ontario Agreements on the Great Lakes, is an important step toward creating a cleaner, healthier future. I am pleased to see this critical commitment between our two governments to continue protecting and restoring the Great Lakes for future generations.” – The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Environment and Climate Change
“Canada and Ontario have a long history of working together to protect and restore the Great Lakes and we’ve seen tremendous improvements in these vital waterways. The health of the Great Lakes is important not only to our natural environment, but also to the local economies and communities that depend on them every day. We look forward to continuing to work with all of our partners to safeguard the world’s largest freshwater lake system now, and for generations to come.” – The Honourable Jeff Yurek, Ontario Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks
“The previous Canada-Ontario Agreement allowed my ministry to undertake important work, such as restoring over 2,400 hectares of habitat and rehabilitating almost 32 km of tributaries in the Great Lakes
basin ecosystem. With this new agreement, my ministry is committed to the prevention and management of aquatic invasive species and conserving our native species and habitats. I’m proud of the work that has already been done and am looking forward to seeing what we can achieve together under this new agreement.” – The Honourable John Yakabuski, Ontario Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry
“Improving the water quality for the Great Lakes is an important piece of our government’s environmental plan. As a critical shared resource, protecting them is also a shared responsibility. That’s why Ontario supports sustainable farming practices that build soil health, enhance water quality, and develop resiliency to a changing climate.” – The Honourable Ernie Hardeman, Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs
Quick facts • The ninth Canada-Ontario Agreement supports the continued implementation of the Canada- U.S. Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement and the Canada-Ontario Lake Erie Action Plan, which was developed to reduce the amount of phosphorus entering Lake Erie, and address the growth of toxic and nuisance algae.
• The Great Lakes play a vital role in the physical, social, and economic life of both Canada and Ontario, and support almost 40 percent of Canada’s economic activity.
• Twenty percent of the world’s surface fresh water is found in the Great Lakes, making it the largest freshwater lake system in the world.
• Ninety-nine percent of Ontarians live in the Great Lakes Basin and 95 percent of Ontario’s agricultural lands are in the Great Lakes Basin.
• Ontario invests approximately $14 million per year in actions to protect and restore the Great Lakes, including projects that support commitments in the Canada-Ontario Agreement on Great Lakes Water Quality and Ecosystem Health and Ontario’s Great Lakes Strategy.
• Through the Great Lakes Protection Initiative, announced in 2017, Canada is investing $44.84 million in science and action to address environmental challenges affecting the lakes. Canadian federal programs such as the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, Chemicals Management Plan, and Nature Fund also contribute to the protection of Canada’s freshwaters, including the Great Lakes.
Associated links
• Read a summary of the new Canada-Ontario Great Lakes Agreement.
• Read the new Canada-Ontario Great Lakes Agreement.
• Learn how Canada is protecting the Great Lakes.
Contacts
Environment and Climate Change Canada Moira Kelly Press Secretary Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change 819-271-6218 [email protected]
Media Relations Environment and Climate Change Canada 819-938-3338 or 1-844-836-7799 (toll-free) [email protected]
Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks Andrew Buttigieg Minister’s Office 437-224-4599 [email protected] Gary Wheeler Communications Branch 416-314-6666 [email protected] Thank you,
Great Lakes National Program Office / Regional Director General (Ontario) Environment and Climate Change Canada / Government of Canada [email protected] / Tel: 416-739-4964
Stay Informed!
We appreciate and value your interest in Environment and Climate Change Canada’s efforts to protect the Great Lakes. If you wish to update any of your contact information, or to be added or removed from this distribution list, please send an email to [email protected] with your name, the name of your organization, and your email address. As always, your details will be treated as privileged information and will only be used to distribute our Great Lakes information to you. This distribution list is never shared outside of Environment and Climate Change Canada.
From: [email protected]
Good morning,
On behalf of Gravel Watch Ontario, I am forwarding a short letter and comments on a recent provincial consultation on the expansion of the Green Belt. Please make these available to your Mayor and Council. We believe that some of the principles in our recommendations could have application across the province.
Thank you. Stay healthy.
Bryan Smith, President Gravel Watch Ontario [email protected]
Dear Mayor and Council, Gravel Watch Ontario acts in the interests of residents and communities to protect the health, safety, quality of life of Ontarians and of the natural environment in matters that relate to aggregate resources. Today, we share our comments (attached) which we have submitted to the Ontario government. It addresses several issues that concern you and communities across the province. They include the following: • Cumulative impacts on communities of extraction industries, specifically of aggregate i.e., rock, gravel, sand, and clay; • Preservation of prime farmland and of water resources necessary for food sustainability and renewable industries; • Local planning to preserve natural capital through good policy, and practices; • Resilience in the face of the twin threats of COVID-19 and climate change. Gravel Watch Ontario recognizes the obligation of communities to protect our agricultural lands, water resources and natural environment, all of which are essential for building a climate-resilient Ontario for future generations. Gravel Watch Ontario has commented on government planning and aggregate policies for over 15 years and works with our members to ensure that policies regulating gravel
extraction do not result in permanent loss of farmland or rural landscape amenities and do not damage the integrity of the water resources supplied by the rural landscape. We thank you for your significant work on these, offer the attached to assist you, ask you to link us to local community groups facing aggregate issues, and invite you to continue this dialogue.
Sincere wishes for good health.
Bryan Smith, President Gravel Watch Ontario [email protected] www.gravelwatch.org ph: 289 270 7535
Date: April 19, 2021 To: [email protected] From: Gravel Watch Ontario, [email protected] Re: Consultation on Growing the Size of the Greenbelt, ERO number 019-3136
OVERVIEW
The following is a submission by Gravel Watch Ontario (GWO;www.gravelwatch.org) in response to the request for feedback on the Consultation on Growing the Size of the Greenbelt ERO 019-3136. Gravel Watch Ontario is a province-wide coalition of citizen groups and individuals that acts in the interests of residents and communities to protect the health, safety, quality of life of Ontarians and the natural environment in matters that relate to aggregate resources.
Gravel Watch Ontario recognizes the obligation to protect our agricultural lands, water resources and natural environment, all of which are essential for building a climate resilient Ontario for future generations. Gravel Watch Ontario has commented on government planning and aggregate policies for over 15 years and works with our members to ensure that policies regulating gravel extraction do not result in permanent loss of farmland or rural landscape amenities and do not damage the integrity of the water resources supplied by the rural landscape.
The consultation on ways to grow the size of Ontario’s Greenbelt is especially timely as the COVID 19 pandemic has highlighted the critical need for food security from local sources during crisis periods and as one of the key factors in the subsequent economic recovery. Ontario has some of the best agricultural land in Canada, much of which is not protected by current land-use planning policies. These lands are a finite, non- renewable resource, and the foundation of one of the province’s largest economic sectors, agri-food. Expansion of the Greenbelt will provide permanent protection of the farmland, water sources and natural ecosystems within the proposed Plan area as well as an opportunity for Ontario to become a world leader in farmland conservation. To mitigate the impact of the leapfrogging of development and aggregate extraction beyond the four Provincial Plans, Gravel Watch Ontario believes that more restrictive development policies are required throughout the province.
Overall, Gravel Watch Ontario supports the proposed expansion of the Greenbelt as outlined in the Initial Study Area of the Paris Galt Moraine and Urban River Valleys. Gravel Watch Ontario agrees with the province that the Paris Galt Moraine is a
valuable groundwater system that must be protected. The moraines continue to be under pressure for aggregate development, water takings (including below-water-table extraction), growth as well as the impacts of a changing and variable climate.
Recently an interim licence approval was granted for aggregate extraction of 750,000 tonnes of dolostone per year (for +25 years) in an ecologically rich area of the Paris Galt Moraine in Rockwood, Ontario (Hidden Quarry). Studies have shown that the quarry will impact both municipal and private wells and a provincially significant wetland. Gravel Watch Ontario is concerned that the quarry will serve as a precedent for unlimited extension to adjacent properties and an expansion into a mega quarry site. In determination of the boundary for the expanded Greenbelt, GWO believes that the following points must be addressed: • That the Greenbelt boundaries be significantly expanded to include more of Ontario’s agricultural land • That below-water table aggregate extraction be prohibited in the Greenbelt (refer to Bill 71, Paris Galt Moraine Conservation Act, 2019) • That there be broader moraine protection across the province (i.e. The Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Act) in addition to the Greenbelt Plan • That the Moffat Moraine (part of the Paris, Galt and Moffat Moraines ANSI) be included in the Initial Study Area and mapping • That the Greenbelt Plan policy 4.3.2 (2) (Non-Renewable Resource Policies) which restricts municipal official plans and zoning bylaws from containing provisions that are more restrictive than the policies of the Greenbelt Plan be removed and replaced with1.4.1 (How to Read This Plan) which states that if the plans, regulations or standards are more restrictive than this Plan, the more restrictive provision shall prevail • That provincial policy leadership is required to analyze the extent to which the cumulative effect of aggregate extraction negatively impacts groundwater recharge in the moraine areas • That the province assess the cumulative impacts of water taking and/or permitting in the Greenbelt Plan Study Areas and across the province • That the outwash gravel deposits adjacent to the moraine that store and transmit groundwater recharged in the moraine to river valleys, and the river valleys that contain the high-baseflow streams fed by discharge from the moraine be included in the mapped area • Clarification is needed as to how the identification and future protection of the designated areas relate to either the Natural Heritage System or the Agricultural System for the Greater Golden Horseshoe Growth Plan • Clarification is needed as to how the identification and future protection of the water features relates to existing source water protection policies. For example, how does Greenbelt designation of river valleys compliment and reinforce the source water protection area for the Eramosa River Valley • In keeping with the directives of the consultation proposal that stipulates the
provincial government will not remove lands from the Greenbelt, we request that the government cancel plans to build Highway 413 (GTA West) and the Bradford Bypass (Holland Marsh Highway) The above relates to the overall protection of the agricultural land base and the connectivity of the natural heritage and water resource systems that sustain ecological and human health and form the environmental framework in south-central Ontario. As requested in the consultation document, we have outlined in detail our answers to your specific questions below.
QUESTION 1 What are your thoughts on the initial focus area of the Study Area of the Paris Galt Moraine? The Initial Focus Area of the Paris Galt Moraine indicates that the government has a clear understanding of the need to expand the Greenbelt and to protect water resource systems for future generations. Recent investigative studies show that the contributions of the moraine to groundwater recharge and discharge extend well beyond the physical land form and that they influence water flow, temperatures, quality and associated terrestrial and aquatic habitats in the water system. It has been pointed out in submissions by the City of Guelph and the Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) that the current mapping fails to consistently include all the glacial outwash areas next to the moraine that provide the groundwater flow linkages between the moraine features and the rivers which are sustained by moraine recharge (i.e. the Eramosa River and other streams identified by the GRCA in their submission).
Both urban development and rural land-use practices such as below-water-table aggregate extraction continue to be at risk to the integrity of the hydrologic and ecological functions of the moraine. The cumulative impacts of both aggregate extraction and water taking must be considered in relation to growth and development.
GWO recommends that a Moraine Protection Act for all moraines in the Province of Ontario be established in addition to the policies of the Greenbelt Plan. We also recommend that the mapping of the Initial Study Area include outwash areas and spillways.
GWO is concerned that the Greenbelt Plan may provide less protection from aggregate extraction than current municipal plans due to the wording of Section 4.3.2 (2) of the Plan. The Grand River Conservation Authority, the Township of North Dumfries, the City of Cambridge and the Region of Waterloo oppose any extension of the Greenbelt Legislation at this time. The Region of Waterloo requests enhanced municipal consultation prior to establishment of final mapping associated with the proposed Greenbelt expansion. They advise that unless policies (language and framework) are revised, they oppose any extension. Their response to the Province’s Consultation
on Growing the Size of the Greenbelt is as follows:
“The Greenbelt Plan does not limit municipalities from adopting policies that are more stringent than the requirements of the Greenbelt Plan, except in relation to agricultural uses and mineral aggregate resources. On those topics, the policies of the Greenbelt Plan prevail and municipalities cannot adopt policies that are more stringent.”
“The Regional Official Plan also prohibits aggregate extraction in Core Environmental Features. The Greenbelt Plan does not include this prohibition.”
“Given that a large share of the region’s groundwater recharge areas also overlap with some of the region’s largest aggregate deposits, Regional staff have consistently recommended a precautionary approach when considering the extraction of mineral aggregate resources. As noted above, some of these policies are more stringent than the requirements in the Greenbelt Plan.”
QUESTION 2 What are the considerations in moving from a Study Area to a more defined boundary of the Paris Galt Moraine? We agree with the Ontario Federation of Agriculture that the province clarify how defining a boundary to bring the Paris Galt Moraine into the Greenbelt will have regard for other provincial policy directives such as emphasizing a watershed-based approach to water-resource planning and giving recognition to the moraine’s role in hydrological functions.
Development of a Paris Galt Moraine Conservation Plan in addition to the Greenbelt Plan would address and protect the features and functions of a more defined Moraine Study Area. GWO recommends that these Moraine Plans be applied province-wide and that: • they must prohibit below-water-table extraction in clear, straightforward language • aggregate extraction is not permitted in natural core areas (as in the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan)
The province must adhere to Section 1.4.1 of the Greenbelt Plan and not have exception for mineral aggregate resources.
QUESTION 3 What are your thoughts on the initial focus area of adding, expanding and further protecting Urban River Valleys? Both public and private lands must be included to provide protection, avoid fragmentation and act as corridors for wildlife. We do agree with the Ontario Federation of Agriculture that including the Urban River Valleys in the total Greenbelt land area should not be used in order to balance the loss of protected agricultural lands to development and aggregate extraction. QUESTION 4
Do you have suggestions for other potential areas to grow the Greenbelt? We believe that Ontario’s Greenbelt should be expanded to include more agricultural land. In addition to the Greenbelt Plan, the moraines require a broader province wide Conservation Plan with more restrictive aggregate policies that include no below water table extraction.
Identifying ‘food belts’ in various regions of the province and by branding the goods produced there encourages Ontarians to grow and buy locally which will contribute to Ontario’s economy and promote tourism comparable to the evolution of the Niagara Region’s vineyards.
GWO supports Ontario Nature in that the following water resource areas should be protected: • All moraines within the GGS, given their vital role in providing clean drinking water and mitigating floods; • Private lands within urban river valleys, since it is primarily private lands, not public lands, that are threatened with urbanization and development; • Coldwater streams, wetlands and headwaters of river systems since they improve water quality, provide critical habitat for fish and other wildlife and afford many further benefits such as flood control, carbon storage, groundwater recharge and recreational opportunities; • Former glacial Lake Algonquin and Iroquois Shorelines and Plain since they feature significant groundwater discharge zones and are the headwaters of many cold water streams; and • The Lake Simcoe Basin and Northern Simcoe County where many important ecological and hydrological features are vulnerable to land speculation and intensive development.
QUESTION 5 How should we balance or prioritize any potential Greenbelt expansion with the other provincial priorities? As noted by the Ontario Federation of Agriculture, it is important to acknowledge that less than 5% of Ontario’s land base can support any agricultural production. From 2011 to 2016, the Census of Agriculture indicated that Ontario lost 319,700 acres of Ontario farmland. That’s 175 acres of farmland per day. The current system is resulting in incremental loss of agricultural lands due to the prioritization of aggregate extraction, development and growth, over farmland preservation.
Several studies have suggested that enough aggregate supply is available currently to fuel economic growth for at least 50 years. Rather than continue to prioritize the extraction of new sources of aggregate, it would be in the province’s best interest to create incentives to maximize reuse and reprocessing of aggregate materials under safe and appropriate industrial conditions. A recent study completed by The
National Farmers’ Union, McMaster University and Gravel Watch Ontario revealed that 77% of aggregate extraction occurs on prime agricultural lands. Given that agricultural lands are a key economic driver in Ontario, they must be protected and prioritized from invasive industrial development such as mining, pits and quarries. The Ontario Federation of Agriculture stated that the ‘interim use’ of aggregate extraction as considered by the aggregate industry, undermines Ontario’s food sustainability and arguably permanently alters agricultural land. This finite, non-renewable resource must be permanently protected.
Aggregate extraction below the water-table results in a permanent water surface when extraction is finished. This situation results in direct exposure of the groundwater system to contamination from airborne sources and spills, as well as removes the possibility of rehabilitation of the site to resumed agricultural use. Prior to the late 1980’s, Section 3.16 of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Guidelines Policy did not permit mineral extraction on Class 1 to 3 agricultural lands unless agricultural rehabilitation of the site was carried out. Gravel Watch Ontario believes that in conjunction with growing the Greenbelt consultation, below water table aggregate extraction should be prohibited on and full rehabilitation of all extraction sites to agricultural use is necessary. More effective and extensive monitoring and transparent reporting of existing pits and quarries is required.
QUESTON 6 Are there other priorities that should be considered? We must consider that while the Greenbelt Plan protects the countryside, it also offers green space for urban dwellers. A key consideration is the positive contribution of urban residents to rural economies through recreational uses, purchases of goods and services, visits to restaurants, farmers’ markets, fairs, festivals and bed and breakfast establishments. From field to fork, the agri-food sector contributes $47.3B to Ontario’s economy and supports over 860,000 jobs.
With its general hummocky nature, sand and gravel deposits and permeable soils, the Paris Galt Moraine provides and purifies water at no cost to citizens. Establishing a Moraine Conservation Act is an opportunity to address water management concerns in a fiscally responsible manner now before the situation becomes dire. Failing to properly protect the moraine and in turn preserve the region’s source of fresh water will lead to massive investments for infrastructure to provide water for the region. Furthermore, local business, farmers and industry depend upon this water source for local jobs and prosperity.
CONCLUSION
Gravel Watch Ontario is optimistic that the outcome of this consultation process will lead to the permanent protection of the Paris-Galt Moraine. It is essential at this time that the province moves forward with the permanent protection of Ontario’s agricultural lands, natural heritage and water resources through both the Greenbelt Plan and a Moraine Conservation Act with more restrictive aggregate policies. Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the proposed Greenbelt expansion in the Initial Study Area. Gravel Watch Ontario looks forward to continuing to work with the province during the next stages of this consultation and we welcome any questions you may have.
REFERENCES AND FURTHER LINKS
Review of the State of Knowledge for the Waterloo and Paris Galt Moraines. February 2009. Prepared for: Land and Water Policy Branch Ministry of the Environment. Prepared by Blackport Hydrogeology Inc. Blackport and Associates Ltd., AquaResource Inc.
Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food: Revision to Food Land Guidelines Policy Regarding Mineral Aggregate Extraction (416/965).
Mike Schreiner, MPP, Guelph Leader of the Green Party of Ontario.
From: Mantha - CO, Michael
To all Mayors, councils and municipal leaders As you know, the annual Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) conference is taking place August 16th and 17th virtually on Zoom. I will be participating in the conference this year, also online, and I look forward to many opportunities to connect with municipal leaders from Algoma-Manitoulin and across the province. If your municipality has been successful in arranging for your delegation to meet with ministry officials, I would be pleased to join you for such conversations upon request. You can find a preliminary agenda for the conference by clicking here. If you would like to set up arrangements for me to participate in your delegation meeting, or if you would like to schedule meetings for any other purpose, please contact the constituency office in Elliot Lake at 1-800-831-1899 or [email protected]. I look forward to hearing from many offices. For those municipalities who are participating in the AMO conference this year, best wishes.
Michael Mantha, MPP/ député
Algoma-Manitoulin
14 George Walk
Elliot Lake, ON
P5A 2A4
Council:
At our December 21, 2020 meeting, up to two persons were authorized to attend the virtual AMO conference. Should you wish to attend, kindly advise.
Thanks, Robert
Integrity Commissioner Report Thessalon
Municipalities are required by legislation to have an Integrity Commissioner (“IC”) and adopt a Code of Conduct (“Code”). Your municipality has appointed Expertise for Municipalities Non- Profit Association (“E4m”) as their IC. The Municipal Act outlines our role as IC. E4m serves your municipality as an independent resource, coach and guide. We are focused on enhancing your municipality’s ethical culture. We do this by:
Responding to questions from Responding to questions from Giving recommendations Providing education/training for Council, Conducting impartial inquiries in response the public about the Code & Council about their obligations and/or advice to Council on Local Boards and Public on Code, MCIA, to allegations that a member has not the Municipal Conflict of under the Code & MCIA. policy related to ethical bylaws, policies and legislation governing followed the Code or MCIA. Interest Act (“MCIA”). behavior of members. ethical behavior
The IC is a statutory officer of the Municipality who reports to Council. Often an IC provides an annual report to Council to provide an overview of the IC’s activities during the year. Our report has been created to provide a brief overview of work carried out by E4m as IC for the period of March 1, 2019 to December 31, 2020. This report that shows you, at a glance, what activities we have undertaken for your municipality. We also show you how your municipality compares to the overall total of each activity for ALL of the municipalities E4m has been appointed IC. In 2019, E4m was appointed by 57 municipalities in Northern and Eastern Ontario, shifting to 51 by December 31, 2020
Your All How you compare Municipality Municipalities
Code of Conduct Complaints 0 58 Allegations E4m Supports the Municipal Sector E4m strives to enhance the Your municipality MCIA Complaints 0 22 municipal sector by re-investing a compared against the minimum of twenty percent of combined total of No Inquiry what we bill. municipalities (matter resolved/dismissed) 0 30 31% Graph Reference: Blue: The cost of inquires. Inquiries Underway 0 13 Green: The amount that E4m has Findings of Breach reinvested back into the Sector.
Allegations Your municipality 0 320 compared against the combined total of Findings of Breach 0 93 municipalities
Highlights & Trends
Inquiries: Many municipalities had no expenses associated with our Integrity Commissioner service. 2 requests for inquiry were received about the behavior of members of Committees or Local Board. The majority of allegations were made by members of Council or employees about members of Council.
Matters in Court In the case that a contravention of the MCIA has occurred, the legislation encourages the IC to make an application to court. Only a judge can determine the penalty for a contravention. How E4m Helps There are 5 matters that are being taken to court. Subsidize Wellness Programs Subsidize Policy Drafting We want you to know: Workshops IC inquiries are costly and many municipalities have not budgeted for these costs. It is our recommendation that money be Workshops and Webinars set aside every year in a reserve fund for the time when it may be needed. One-on-one Staff and/or Getting advice or training both carry a much less significant cost than the that of an inquiry. Council Coaching Average cost of advice = $457.35 ~ Average cost of an inquiry = $9,551.88 Mentoring and Advice Please visit the E4m website to explore the types of assistance that we offer. Subsidize Council Term Plans Several findings were made that members of Council contravened the Council Staff Relations Policy (and the Code) because Provides Affordable Support they acted outside of their role as a Councillor. (This is why training is such a powerful investment.) to Municipalities (tailor- Sometimes, when a complainant or respondent is not satisfied with the result of the Integrity Commissioner's inquiry, they made for their needs and will attack the inquiry process using social media, making inordinate requests for information or using the ombudsman. This circumstances) can result in considerable costs to the municipality.
Office of the Integrity Commissioner [email protected] 1894 Lasalle Blvd. Empowering Sector Resilience & Excellence Fax. 705-806-4000 Sudbury, ONT P3A 2A4 Form Designed for E4m www.E4m.solutions
Senior’s Healthy Aging AD HOC Committee
June 3, 2021
Attendance: Mayor Bill Rosenberg, Deputy Mayor Jordan Bird, Jo Beyers, Mary Ellen Luukkonen, Alice Radley, Frances Schellekens and Administrative Secretary Lindsay MacFarlane
Overview
The meeting began at 2:02 p.m.
The Committee agreed on the name Senior’s Healthy Aging Committee.
The suggestion for the name “Reimagining Healthy Aging” to be used in the Goals or vision statement of the committee.
In discussion of the Committee’s Mandate and Goals the Dawson St. property and feasibility study was reviewed. As the Town has noticed a hole in housing, the planning advisory committee conducted a feasibility study on town property, to explore an option of a senior’s development. A goal of this committee would be to prepare the data, discuss opportunities and plan out the hopes of this development in order to be prepared for when funding becomes available.
A needs analysis is to be developed to get an idea of what type of seniors housing the committee should push for development, whether it be transitional housing from a house to renting, assisted living, etc.
House Keeping
The committee will consist of Mayor Bill Rosenberg and 5 members.
The Chair has not yet been decided upon as the committee would like more information on the role/duties of the Chair. The Chair’s responsibilities include leading committee meetings and approving minutes. As Mayor, Bill cannot Chair the committee.
The Committee discussed the option for getting a secretary with the possibility of hiring an external secretary. A job description for the secretary will also be sent to the committee for review. I have attached a notice for the Economic Development Secretary to show what responsibilities are of the secretary.
The Committee will meet on a monthly basis, on the first Thursday of the month at 2:00 p.m.; this is to be revisited to review if this time continues to work for the members.
The members have agreed to have their emails shared with one another.
Members asked to see the minutes from Council to establish the committee to help support/develop the committee’s mandate.
Meetings will be scheduled the first Thursday of every month at 2:00 p.m. The next meeting will be July 8th, 2021 with hopes of an in-person meeting and zoom if required by any members.
For the Next Meeting
• Nominate/Vote on Committee Chair • Decide on Secretary Approach (Internal or hire externally) • Committees Mandate and Goals
MARINA/ARENA/PARKS COMMITTEE June 8, 2021 THESE MINUTES ARE THE INTERPRETATION OF THE RECORDER ONLY AND ARE NOT OFFICIAL UNTIL APPROVED BY THE COMMITTEE.
Present were Town Superintendent Ken Seabrook, Mayor Bill Rosenberg, Committee Chair Scott Lawrence, Committee Member James Orlando and Recording Secretary MaryKaye Karhi. Councillor Linda Stopes and Lindsay Tallon were not present.
1. Call to Order The Committee met at 5:30 p.m. at the Thessalon Marina.
2. Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and Conflict of Interest
3. Adoption of Minutes of Previous Meeting
4. Delegations
5. Business Arising from Minutes of Previous Meeting
6. Letters and Communications for Action
7. Letters and Communications for Information – The Committee discussed the maintenance required for each building at the Marina and proceeded to Thessalon Lakeside Park to look at the hydro meters installed.
8. Committee and Staff Reports
9. General Business
10. Closed Session
11. Adjournment
THESSALON PROPERTY STANDARDS COMMITTEE June 14, 2021 THESE MINUTES ARE THE INTERPRETATION OF THE RECORDER ONLY AND ARE NOT OFFICIAL UNTIL APPROVED BY THE COMMITTEE.
Chair Jordan Bird declared the Regular Meeting open at 6:11 p.m. Present in the W. J. Barrett Chambers were Mayor Bill Rosenberg, Member Tom Mills, and Secretary Lindsay MacFarlane. Attending Via Zoom were Chair Jordan Bird, Councillor Marcel Baron, and member Kevin King.
Delegation:
Resolution No. 2021-02-01: Marcel Baron – Tom Mills: “Be it resolved that the minutes of the meeting on May 10, 2021 be adopted as presented.” CARRIED Resolution No. 2021-02-02: Marcel Baron – Tom Mills: “Be it resolved that the meeting be adjourned at 6:30 p.m. CARRIED
______Jordan Bird, Chair
______Lindsay MacFarlane, Secretary
COMMITTEE REPORTS
June 17, 2021
Mayor and Council,
Re: Upcoming Statutory Holiday for Office Staff
Since Canada Day falls on a Thursday this year and families are now allowed to get together, the Human Resources Committee is recommending to Council to authorize that the Municipal Office shut down on Friday July 2 permitting all office staff to take a vacation day thus making this a four-day weekend for the entire office staff to enjoy the much-needed social interaction.
Thank you for giving the above your consideration.
Jordan Bird Human Resources Chair
June 16, 2021 Mayor and Council, Re: Esso Diesel and Gas Cards
The Town will be receiving gas cards for each piece of equipment through the new gas station and the Finance Committee is recommending to Council to authorize that these invoices be paid through on-line banking.
Thank you for giving the above your consideration.
Jordan Bird Finance Chair
June 2021 Report to Council Water Street Paving I tendered for the paving of Water Street from Government Road to the Dawson Street, the work includes paving the water Street/Church Street intersection. I invited 3 asphalt contractors to provide bids. We have budgeted $100,000 for the work. The low bid price received is from Pioneer Construction at a value of $120,344 plus HST. Public Works, Water Sewer Committee has recommended we complete the entire length of Water Street from Government Road to the intersection with Dawson Street as we will not see favorable pricing such as this in the future. The additional funds ($20,344.00) could come from the Gas Tax account. Would Council wish to proceed with the work? Dental Suite Air I issued a tender to 3 contractors to supply and install a split system air conditioning unit for the Dental Suite. The system in the Health Centre is not providing equal air exchange as. The funds would come from the it should have. This has been like this since the completion of the retrofit. I’ve talked to the contractor who did the work several times and they are confident they installed what was requested. The warranty period has long expired. The Dentist has been complaining for some time now and recently he was forced to abandon treatment of a patient due to the fluctuation in temperatures in the Suite. He is quite concerned about the inconvenience of his patients as well as the losses he has incurred by having to cancel appointments due to the temperature affecting the materials he uses. I received 2 bids, with the lowest bid coming from S & T Group at a value of $8,084.00 plus HST. The monies would come from the Recreation Plus (Medical Centre) Reserve. Would Council agree to have this work completed? Directional plow for Trackless Sidewalk unit
I put out a request for quotation to 3 companies for a V plow for the sidewalk. I received 3 bids with the lowest price being $7,150.00 plus HST which came from Work Equipment Ltd. I had budgeted $7500.00. Tonneau Cover for Unit #54 With your permission I would like to purchase a tonneau cover for this truck. The purpose is for hauling paper products on occasion for the Park, Arena, Marina, Municipal Office and PW garage. It would also provide some security when transporting town equipment, tools etc. The price of the cover is $700 plus HST. The cover would need an extra bracket to make it fit since the truck currently has a back rack installed. The funds for the purchase could come from the Equipment Reserve. Lakeside Beach Porta Potty We have placed a porta potty at Peace Park but the isn’t one at Lakeside Beach. The porta potty that is there belongs to the contractor and is not for public use. Would Council wish to proceed with placement of a rented porta potty at Lakeside Beach? The funds would come from the Lakeside Park maintenance funds. Canada Day Holiday Public Works staff have requested that they be allowed to take Friday July 2nd off as their Stat Holiday vs July 1st realizing working July 1st will not entitle them to any premium payment. Would Council agree to allowing this request? Arena Grant Application We are currently working on an application to replace the ice making equipment in the Arena and the Curling Rink. We had to have a Structural Engineer look at the truss system in both arenas to determine suitability for the new style ice plant. Thessalon River bank stabilization I have received a permit from the MNRF to complete the river bank stabilization from along the easement for mark Street. The window for the
work begins June 21st. I have been able to arrange with the owner of Birchland Veneer to haul the rock from their property. The work will begin shortly. Summer Students We have 2 students working weekends at both the Park and the marina, the remainder of the students will start July 5th. Lakeside Park Pine Trees I hired an Arborist from Wright Tree service to do a follow up health check on the pine trees in the park, I initially had them inspected in the Fall of 2018. The report doesn’t identify any significant amount of work required other than some maintenance trimming. No trees need to be eliminated! The cost of the work was $480 plus HST. Bell Tower update The Bell tower is now fully operational, there was an update to occur on June 14th.
Ken,,,
June 9, 2021
Mayor Rosenberg & Building Committee Members c/o Ken Seabrook Town of Thessalon
RE: Dental Suite HVAC situation
Dear Mayor Rosenberg and Building Committee Members:
Thank you for the opportunity to address a very serious and on-going problem with the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) of the dental suite in the professional building.
It is unfortunate that the existing ventilation system for the building appears to be all one zone, with the dental suite being at the very end, receiving the least airflow. The dental suite and the medical suite really should be completely separate zones.
The issues from my point-of-view are as follows:
• we use materials in our practice that have very specific handling properties for a given temperate range; • temperatures out of this range adversely affect my ability to do my job properly; • dentistry is a very difficult, demanding and technical job that requires a lot of attention and effort; over-heating while doing it is the last thing I need! • even before the Covid-19 situation, there were many summer days where the dental suite exceeded 72F, sometimes hitting as high as 75F; • Covid-19 protocols now require us to wear additional layers of protection making these higher temperatures that much more uncomfortable; • when the building superintendent changes the thermostat setting to cool the building, we end up “freezing-out” the medical suite who then complains and the thermostat is raised, and we are left playing thermostat ping-pong.
Having worked in the HVAC field as a helper in years past, I have some knowledge on this subject. To that end, I am well aware that re-designing and configuring the HVAC system to have the dental suite on a separate zone would be very expensive and disruptive to the building. That is why I am suggesting a simpler approach of installing a 2-zone ductless-split air conditioner system.
The ductless split AC system is similar to what you’d find in your room at a tropical resort. This solution is cost-effective, much simpler to install and it would allow us to cool our suite to as needed without affecting the rest of the building.
To put it another way, the ductless-split system is a quick & dirty solution that will get the job done.
Over the past 3 years, we at Thessalon Dental have worked hard to build a solid and valued reputation here in the community. We have re-invested in the dental suite to open a second room, and shortly will be investing more money in equipment. However, we view HVAC as a building issue and as a tenant, we do not feel this is an expense we should be burdened with.
With the first of June already having over 30C temperatures, we are hopeful to have this issue corrected as soon as possible.
Sincerely,
Dr. Thomas Detert, Kim Langevin, & Team
May 20, 2021
Dear Human Resources Committee:
I would like to apply for the Safe Spaces Field of Dreams Grant through the Blue Jays Care Foundation to receive funding for upgrades to our current baseball fields.
Thank you,
Kristen
The Human Resources Committee reviewed the above note and is recommending to Council to authorize that an application for the Safe Spaces Field of Dreams through the Blue Jays Care Foundation be completed.
Debbie
June 18, 2021
Council:
I am currently planting the flowers in the boxes for the Fullerton Bridge. They are to be placed on the bridge on June 22, 2021.
Kristen
TOWN OF THESSALON OVERTIME RECORD FOR 2021 June 21, 2021
Inside Description Da Mnth From To Hours Hours Bal Staff of Work y Extnd Employee # 008 MAP meeting 11 May 5:30 6:00 .5 .75 .75 p.m. p.m. 022 Planning 10 May 6:30 7:30 1.00 1.50 1.50 meeting p.m. p.m. 022 Agenda 14 May 5:00 5:15 .25 .38 .38 p.m. p.m. 022 Council 17 May 6:30 9:00 2.50 3.75 3.75 meeting p.m. p.m. 004 Agenda 14 May 4:00 4:45 .75 1.13 1.13 p.m. p.m. Outside Description Da Mnth From To Hours Hours Bal Staff of Work y Extnd Employee # 019 Park 14 May 4:00 7:00 3.00 4.50 4.50 Administratio p.m. p.m. n 007 Storm drain – 10 May 12:00 1:00 1.00 1.50 1.50 Huron St. p.m. p.m. 007 Storm drain – 10 May 4:00 5:00 1.00 1.50 1.50 Huron St. p.m. p.m. 007 Water line 22 May 5:15 7:00 1.75 4.00 6.00 break – Park p.m. p.m. – Call out 006 Storm drain – 10 May 4:00 5:00 1.00 1.50 1.50 Huron St. p.m. p.m. 009 Storm drain – 10 May 4:00 5;00 1.00 1.50 1.50 Huron St. p.m. p.m. 016* Brushing 10 May 4:00 5:00 1.00 1.00 1.00 lagoon p.m. p.m. 016* MAP meeting 11 May 5:30 6:00 .50 .50 .50 p.m. p.m. 016* Council 17 May 6:30 8:30 2.00 2.00 2.00 meeting p.m. p.m.
*Employee 016 does not incur time and a half only straight time
The Corporation of the TOWN OF THESSALON
REPORT
REPORT TO: Mayor and Members of Council
REPORT FROM: Deputy Clerk-Treasurer
DATE: June 21, 2021
REPORT NO.: 2021-0001
RE: Excluded Expenses as Required by Ontario Regulation 284/09
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Town of Thessalon approves the report for excluded expenses outlined in report 2021-0001 as required by Municipal Act, 2001, Ontario Regulation 284/09.
BACKGROUND:
Ontario Regulation 284/09 (O. Reg. 284/09) is a regulation added in 2010 to the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c. 25, as amended (the Municipal Act). This regulation allows municipalities to exclude from the annual budget estimated expenses for all or a portion of the following:
1) Amortization expenses 2) Post-employment benefits expenses 3) Solid waste landfill and post-closure expenses
If a municipality has adopted a budget for 2021 that excluded any of the expenses listed above, a transitional rule allows the municipality within 60 days of receiving its audited financial statements for 2020 to:
a) Prepare a report about the excluded expenses b) Adopt the report by resolution
DISCUSSION:
Starting with the 2009-year end, accounting standards and reporting requirements have changed dramatically; most significantly with the introduction of tangible capital asset accounting as required by the Public Sector Accounting Board (PSAB). The new accounting standards, however, do not require budgets to be prepared on the same basis. The Town of Thessalon continues to prepare budgets on the traditional cash basis.
The annual budget of a municipality is an important exercise, one that plans for current and future activities and acquisitions. A key outcome of the annual budget is a tax rate, which Council is asked to approve. This tax rate is determined on a cash basis and is not required to include the PSAB requirements of accrual accounting and accounting for non-financial assets and liabilities such as amortization expenses, post-employment benefits, and solid waste landfill and post- closure expenses.
Amortization Expenses
The 2020 amortization expense reported on the consolidated financial statements totaled $617,078. Theoretically this amount represents the annual use of Town assets. Taking into account new assets coming into service in 2021 along with the existing asset base, amortization projections are expected to exceed $650,000 for 2021.
The Town of Thessalon does not budget for amortization expenses; however, the Town does budget to provide to reserve(s) and Reserve Funds. In the 2020 budget a total of $508,000, was transferred into Reserve(s) and/or Reserve Funds.
By definition, amortization expense is the attribution of capital cost over the useful life of the asset. However, amortization is also a good tool to predict the future annual financial commitment of asset replacements. Given this fact, it is reasonable to expect that as the Town’s asset inventory and associated amortization expenses continue to grow, deficits may occur. As such, the consideration of a dedicated capital levy in future years may be needed to ensure that the Town’s tangible capital assets are being replaced in a timely manner without large fluctuations in the tax rate or the issuance of debt.
Post-employment benefits expenses
Post-employment expenses for employees, upon retirement after having served more than five (5) consecutive full-time years of employment, shall be entitled to a retirement allowance equal to one-half (1/2) the number of sick days standing to their credit, and in any event not to exceed three (3) months earnings at their current basic rate of pay.
The Town does annually budget for the current year’s costs of post-employment benefits for all employees that have accumulated sick time by allocating 50% of their accumulated sick days to a reserve for sick leave.
Solid waste landfill and post-closure expenses
Solid waste landfill and post-closure expenses is costs associated with the future closure of our landfill site.
The Town does annually budget for the current year’s costs of solid waste landfill and post-closure expenses by allocating a pre-determined amount to a reserve for Rose Lake post closure.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
There is no financial impact to this report. To include amortization expenses in the 2021 budget would have required additional funding of approximately $650,000, which would have meant an increase to required dollars of 40.913%.
Respectfully submitted,
Debbie Rydall Deputy Clerk-Treasurer
The Corporation of the TOWN OF THESSALON
2020 Annual Investment Report
In accordance with the Town of Thessalon’s Investment Policy, the Deputy Clerk- Treasurer is to provide an annual investment report.
Securities Held:
• bank accounts held with a Canadian Credit Union . Northern Credit Union • bank accounts held with a Canadian Chartered Bank . Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC) • Investments in a Canadian Credit Union . Northern Credit Union
The majority of the bank accounts are held with the Town of Thessalon’s branch of the Northern Credit Union and one (1) bank account is held with the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce located at 530 Queen Street in Sault Ste. Marie. There is currently little liquidity risk, as all of the Town’s investments can be redeemed at any time. The Northern Credit Union establishes its rates using Bank of Canada’s benchmark rate for guidance, which decreased in 2020. The pandemic along with the uncertainty in the markets have contributed to a decline in interest rates across the financial industry in both lending and investing forefronts.
In November 2017 Council authorized five (three-year terms) Canadian Guaranteed Investment Certificates through the Northern Credit Union, each in the amount of $200,000.00 with the following rates:
Year 1 2018 Rate of 2.2% Year 2 2019 Rate of 2.45%
Year 3 2020 Rate of 2.95%
The above mentioned five Canadian Guaranteed Investment Certificates came due in November 2020 and were reinvested for a one-year term at 1% in hopes that interest will begin to increase in the 2021 year.
Portfolio 2020 Summary:
Description Account Balance 2020 Account Total % of at December 31, Investment Account 2020 Income Investment Income NCU-General Account 1,059,763.81 10,597.58 22.364% NCU-Member Share 25.00 0.00 0.000% NCU-Arena Bequest 17,069.20 51.22 0.108% NCU-Rose Lake 35,885.14 216.35 0.457% NCU-Gas Tax 554,431.80 3,532.98 7.456% NCU-Minor Ball 1,890.02 5.80 0.012% NCU-Baseball League 308.83 0.92 0.002% NCU-Soccer League 1,367.47 4.10 0.009% NCU-Ski Trails 1,180.54 3.54 0.007% NCU-Men’s Ball League 1,111.83 3.35 0.007% NCU-Water Investment 70,142.95 1,379.05 2.910% OCIF Formula Based 132,683.11 619.11 1.307% NCU-5 GIC’s @ 200,000 Each 1,078,011.25 30,972.25 65.361% CIBC-General Account 3,532.92 0.00 0.000% TOTAL 47,386.25 100%
As shown below, the total investment revenue earned in 2019 was $60,767.35 and the total investment revenue earned in 2020 was $47,386.25 creating a decrease in investment revenue for the 2020 year in the amount of ($13,381.10).
Year Investment Amount Increase/Decrease from Previous Year
2019 60,767.35 11,523.27 2020 47,386.25 (13,381.10)
To reflect interest earned on investments after annual date, accrual interest was calculated in the amount of ($2,113.63).
Deputy Clerk-Treasurer’s Statement:
In my opinion, all investments were made in accordance with the investment policy and goals adopted by the Town of Thessalon and are in compliance with the Municipal Act.
Respectfully submitted,
______Debbie Rydall Deputy Clerk- Treasurer
May 19, 2021
Council:
Re: North Shore Community Safety and Well Being Plan Committee Meeting
Lindsay and I participated in the Community Safety and Well Being Plan Committee meeting held via Zoom at 1:15 p.m. this afternoon. Also present were Pam Walsh, Town of Blind River, Natashia Roberts, Municipality of Huron Shores, and Barbara Major, Township of the North Shore. Pam Lortie, Town of Spanish, was absent.
The group felt that the issues requiring the most improvement or attention were:
• Addictions/Substance Use • Mental Health • Policing and Crime Prevention • Affordable Housing
The next meeting will be held on May 26th. Members from various agencies have been invited to attend this meeting.
A template will be prepared to be provided to the agencies in order that their submissions will be consistent.
Ms. Walsh offered to begin preparing a draft Community Safety and Well Being Plan, which is to be completed by June 30th.
Laird Signs has been requested to provide a quote to create a logo to represent the North Shore Community Safety and Well-Being Plan initiative.
The meeting adjourned at approximately 1:50 p.m.
Robert
May 26, 2021
Council:
Re: North Shore Community Safety and Well Being Plan Committee Meeting
Lindsay and I participated in the Community Safety and Well Being Plan Committee meeting held via Zoom at 1:30 p.m. this afternoon. Also present were Pam Walsh, Town of Blind River, Natashia Roberts, Municipality of Huron Shores, and Barbara Major, Township of the North Shore. Pam Lortie, Town of Spanish, was absent.
A representative(s) from a number of agencies were also in attendance. A resolution was passed to include these representatives on the Advisory Committee. A copy of this resolution will be circulated to each of the Councils to be passed at their next regular meetings. (Please see resolution below.)
It was suggested that food insecurity and gender-based violence be added to the four risk factors that were identified from the survey results.
The Advisory Committee members were asked to complete and return their forms as soon as possible.
The next meeting will be held on July 5, 2021 at 1:30 p.m.
A quote in the amount of $750.00 plus HST for a logo to represent this initiative, was received from Laird Signs.
The meeting adjourned at approximately 2:00 p.m.
Robert
From: Pam Walsh
Hi,
Here is the resolution from last weeks meeting.
"BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council appoint the following individuals/agencies to the Community Safety & Well-Being Advisory Committee: Robert MacLean or delegate, Town of Thessalon; Natashia Roberts or delegate, Municipality of Huron Shores; Pam Walsh or delegate, Town of Blind River; Barbara Major or delegate, Municipality of North Shore; Pam Lortie or delegate, Township of Spanish; Tyler Sturgeon or delegate, OPP; Brian Beauchamp and Susan Baillargeon or delegate, Algoma District School Board; Keith Bell or delegate, Algoma District Services Administration Board; Sandie Leith or delegate, Algoma Family Services; Liliana Bressan or delegate, Algoma Public Health; Annette Katajamaki or delegate, Canadian Mental Health Association; Tracey Seabrook or delegate, Collaborative Strategies Inc.; Shelley Watt Proulx or delegate, Counselling Centre of East Algoma; LeeAnn Blondeau or delegate, Employment Solutions; Jim Cada or delegate, Mississauga First Nation; Jessica Wabigan and Lue Mahaffey or delegate, Thessalon First Nation, as recommended by the Community Safety & Well-Being Plan Working Group."
Pam Walsh Deputy Clerk
Town of Blind River 11 Hudson Street Blind River, ON P0R 1B0
Bus: 705-356-2251 ext. 210 Fax: 705-356-7343 Cell: 705-227-1572 [email protected]
May 28, 2021
Council:
I attended the Central Algoma Clerks’ Association virtual meeting on May 20, 2021 at 9:00 a.m.
The first session addressed voting options, with presentations being given on electronic voting and voting by mail.
Cathy Cyr from Wawa gave the first presentation. After having used a vote by mail method in prior elections, for the 2018 election, Wawa opted for electronic voting, using the system offered by Intelivote. This allows voting by computer or telephone. She seemed pleased overall with the results, although she noted that some of the seniors had difficulty voting, with help having to be provided to them through the Municipal Office.
Janet Boucher from the Township of Jocelyn elaborated on the vote by mail system that is being used there. Although that option has been working there, she did point out that it takes additional staff and longer to open the envelopes containing the ballots. It was also noted that some votes were not received until after the election was over. I am thinking this voting method would work well for a municipality with seasonal electors who, at the time of the election, reside elsewhere.
The cost for our election in 2018 was just over $3,500. Intelivote charges a base fee of $3,000 if the number of electors is under 1,500, and $1.35 per elector for production, printing and postage for the Voter Instruction Letter, which includes an elector’s voter PIN which would be an additional approximately $1,700, for a total of approximately $4,700. I understand from Wawa’s presentation that you have to buy into and manage DataFix, which is another approximately $4,000 on top of the Intelivote fees.
Although counting ballots and completing the required ballot summaries can be time consuming, the paper ballot system we have been using meets our needs at an affordable cost.
The second item on the agenda was Community Safety and Well Being Plans. As I have indicated in notes from our Community Safety and Well Being Plan meetings, the group of which the Town is a member is positioned to have a
draft plan ready by June 30, 2021, with approval of the plan to take place likely in August, 2021.
This item was followed by a Records and Information Management update. We are planning to move toward the electronic filing of documents to address the limited storage space in our vault. Ms. Cyr from Wawa agreed to share her municipality’s policy.
The members present provided details regarding how COVID-19 funding has been spent. Laptops, software, plexiglass, etc. were some of the examples given.
There was some discussion regarding the new Police Detachment Board structure. It was noted that the four island municipalities had not been included in the proposed East Algoma West Detachment Board. I will be presenting a resolution for your consideration to include these four municipalities, as well as the Municipality of Huron Shores. At this point, the action being taken by Thessalon First Nation is unknown.
The meeting, which ended shortly after 10:30 a.m., was informative, and I appreciated the opportunity to participate.
Robert
GENERAL BUSINESS
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF THESSALON BY-LAW NUMBER 2432
Being a By-law to establish a Seniors’ Healthy Aging Committee for the Town of Thessalon.
WHEREAS Section 10 (2) 1. of the Municipal Act 2001, c. 25, provides that a municipality may pass by-laws respecting the governance structure of the municipality and its local boards;
WHEREAS Section 10 (2) 6. of the Municipal Act 2001, c. 25, provides that a municipality may pass by-laws respecting the health, safety and well-being of persons;
THEREFORE the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Thessalon hereby ENACTS AS FOLLOWS:
1. The Council of the Corporation of the Town of Thessalon (hereinafter referred to as the Council) hereby establishes the Seniors’ Healthy Aging Committee (hereinafter referred to as the Committee) whose mandate shall be reimagining seniors’ healthy aging when considering seniors’ services and needs, including but not limited to housing.
2. The Committee shall consist of six members and shall include the Mayor or his or her Designate, all being appointed by the Council.
3. The Committee shall select a Chair from amongst its members.
4. Persons shall hold office for the term of Council, and may be reappointed for an additional term(s) at the discretion of Council.
5. When a vacancy occurs for any cause, the Council shall appoint a person qualified to be a member, who shall hold office for the remainder of the term for which his or her predecessor was appointed.
6. The Committee shall meet monthly, however, meetings may be more or less frequent as determined by the Chair.
7. A majority of the members is necessary to constitute a quorum of the Committee.
8. The Committee shall keep minutes and records of its meetings and shall keep all paper and documents pertaining to the business of the Committee, and all books, documents and files kept by the Committee shall be open to the inspection of the Council and to the members of the Committee.
9. The Committee shall forward true copies of the minutes and records to all members of the Committee and the Clerk-Treasurer of the Town of Thessalon.
10. The Council shall appoint a Recording Secretary who shall attend and record minutes of all Committee meetings. The Recording Secretary, on direction from the Chair of the Committee, shall be responsible for the distribution of minutes as stated in section 10 above.
11. In carrying out the provisions of this by-law, the Committee shall at all times be the agent of the Municipal Council of the Town of Thessalon and while acting bonafide within the limits of the authority of this by-law neither the Committee nor any member thereof shall incur any liability by reasons of anything done or left undone by the Committee provided, however, that nothing in this paragraph shall empower the Committee to incur any debt, liability or obligation for which the Municipal Council of the Town of Thessalon shall become liable, without having previously obtained the written consent of the municipal Council.
12. On behalf of the Seniors’ Healthy Aging Committee, the Mayor and Clerk- Treasurer from the Town of Thessalon shall be recognized as having signing authority as per the approved budget.
13. Prior to March 1st of each year, the Committee shall meet to determine its operating budget for the year.
14. The Town of Thessalon shall be responsible for the collection of all operation monies and shall be responsible for the payment of all accounts and related auditing requirements in accordance with the Policies and Procedures of the Town of Thessalon.
15. Should any clause or provision of this By-law be declared by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, the same shall not affect the validity of this By-law as a whole or any part thereof, other than the part so declared to be invalid.
Passed in open Council this 21st day of June, 2021.
______MAYOR
SEAL
______CLERK
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF THESSALON
BY-LAW NUMBER 2433
BEING A BY-LAW to authorize the signing of an agreement and related documents to operate the Stewardship Youth Ranger Program between Her Majesty the Queen in the right of Ontario as represented by the Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry and the Corporation of the Town of Thessalon if a suitable Team Lead is found; and if the Hiring Committee concurs that a suitable Team Lead has not been found as a result of the interview process, the Town will decline becoming a host partner in the 2021 year.
WHEREAS The Municipal Act, 2001, Section c. 25, s. 5(3) provides that a municipal power, including a municipality’s capacity, rights, powers and privileges under section 8, shall be exercised by by-law unless the municipality is specifically authorized to do otherwise;
AND WHEREAS the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Thessalon considers it desirable to enter into an agreement to operate the Stewardship Youth Ranger Program with Her Majesty the Queen in the right of Ontario as represented by the Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry.
THEREFORE the Council of The Corporation of the Town of Thessalon hereby ENACTS AS FOLLOWS:
1. The Mayor and Clerk-Treasurer are hereby authorized, on behalf of the Corporation of the Town of Thessalon, to sign the agreement and related documents between Her Majesty the Queen in the right of Ontario as represented by the Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry and the Corporation of the Town of Thessalon, to operate the Stewardship Youth Ranger Program if a suitable Team Lead is found; and if the Hiring Committee concurs that a suitable Team Lead has not been found as a result of the interview process, the Town will decline becoming a host partner in the 2021 year.
2. This By-law shall come into force and take effect upon the final passing thereof.
PASSED in Open Council this 21st day of June, 2021.
______MAYOR
Seal ______CLERK-TREASURER
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF THESSALON
BY-LAW NUMBER 2434
BEING A BY-LAW to confirm the proceedings of the special meeting of Council held on June 21, 2021.
WHEREAS Section 5, Subsection 3 of the Municipal Act, R.S.O. 2001, c. 25, as amended, requires a municipal council to exercise its power by by-law except where otherwise provided;
AND WHEREAS in many cases, action which is taken or authorized to be taken by a Council or Committee of Council does not lend itself to an individual by-law;
NOW THEREFORE the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Thessalon hereby ENACTS AS FOLLOWS:
1. The actions of Council at its regular meeting on June 21, 2021 in respect to each motion, resolution and other action passed and taken by the Council at its said special meeting, is, except where prior approval of the Ontario Municipal Board is required, hereby adopted, ratified and confirmed.
2. The Mayor and the proper officers of the Town are hereby authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to the said action or to obtain approvals where required, and to execute all documents as may be necessary and directed to affix the Corporate Seal to all such documents as required.
3. This by-law shall come into force and take effect immediately upon the final passing thereof.
PASSED in Open Council this 21th day of June, 2021.
______Mayor
Seal ______Clerk Treasurer