[1:49] Call the meeting to order with an acceptance of the [1:50] Council agenda. Councillor Hutchin, our Council of Trevelli, Deputy Mayor [1:55] Hutchin, that we accept the Council agenda for the 14th [1:58] of July. All those in favor. That is carried. Moves [2:05] us around long to the first, or declaration of pure [2:09] interest. Oh, Councillor Trevelli. Yeah, thanks, Mayor. Good evening. Declaration [2:14] on item 6. 1. Okay. All right. All right. That [2:23] moves us along to item five on the agenda. And [2:28] tonight, we're pleased to have Laurence Schneider and her family [2:34] in attendance tonight. And as you know, I always, as [2:36] a former teacher, I always like to encourage and celebrate [2:40] all the young people in our community that are doing [2:42] extraordinary things. And going on and making X - ray [2:47] accomplishments and getting awards. And Lauren has some significant accomplishments [2:56] in figure skating. She has her gold - free skate [3:00] designation. And her quad gold medalist. And now she's also [3:05] a coach so that she can instilled a passion for [3:09] figure skating in our younger children here in Walkerton and [3:15] Brockton. So that's very admirable to see a young person [3:18] going on and doing that sort of coaching work also. [3:21] So Lauren, congratulations. I have a certificate for you. So [3:25] I'm going to call you up here right in the [3:26] centre here and we'll get some pictures. [4:26] Okay. So that move along on the agenda item seven. [4:32] We have one delegation tonight. We have Chad Richards, senior [4:35] strategist from Bruce Power. And he's going to give us [4:39] an update on the activities that Bruce Power's been doing [4:42] to promote Bruce C. Wonderful. Thank you so much, Mr. [4:50] Merrill. Just a lot of the slides to come up [4:52] on screen. And it was the best approaches for me [4:54] to indicate when we moved to the next slide. Perfect. [4:57] Um, excellent. Well, again, thank you very much for having [5:00] me here this evening to speak to council about the [5:03] Bruce Sea Project. We're really in an exciting, uh, phase [5:06] for the project. There's lots of work going on and [5:10] really wanted to use this as an opportunity to update [5:12] Council on where we're at in that process. Um, and [5:15] to provide a bit of information about, uh, an exciting [5:17] initiative that we've, we've launched for regional readiness assessments when [5:21] it comes to, uh, the Bruce C project. So I [5:24] mean, if we can move on to the, the next [5:26] slide. Wanted to start by acknowledging that the Bruce Power [5:30] site is located within the Sagina Gymway nation territory, the [5:33] shared treaty and traditional territory of the Chippewas of Sagin [5:36] First Nation and Chip was of Nawash unseated First Nation, [5:40] Nia Shinghaming. Bruce Power, through all that we do, whether [5:43] that's our existing operations or exploring Transformative Project like the [5:47] Bruce C project, uh, we do so in the spirit [5:49] of, of reconciliation and respect with the indigenous communities that [5:52] we work with, that includes, uh, this Aguino Jibway Nation, [5:56] uh, the Mee T nation of Ontario, region seven and [5:59] the historic Sagin Mate onto the next slide, please. So [6:04] we like to start by setting the tone on why [6:07] we're exploring something like a new build project. Where's the [6:10] Ontario energy landscape at right now. Um, and when you [6:14] look at the, the grid operations more broadly, the Ontario's [6:18] independent electricity system operator every year, the system operator, what [6:22] releases what's called the annual planning outlook. And for, uh, [6:26] for folks like me who's been way too much time [6:27] looking at electricity markets. That's like our Christmas Eve the [6:30] day before the APO comes out. It's, uh, we're on [6:33] pins and needles waiting for the next APO to drop. [6:35] But when, when the system operator released their annual planning [6:38] outlook, uh, earlier this year in 2026, the APO showed [6:42] that the grid, when they look out to the year [6:44] 2050, we're looking at about a 65 percent increase in [6:47] electricity demand compared to what we have on the grid [6:50] here today. So when you think about just the fundamental [6:53] scale of building up about 65 percent more in addition [6:56] to what we have today It's really a significant undertaking, [6:59] uh, to meet that new demand with, with clean, affordable, [7:02] reliable, uh, power going forward. Similarly, the, the, the province [7:08] said, set out in their energy for generations report, uh, [7:12] policy document effectively an integrated energy plan for the province [7:16] and how we're going to meet that increase demand by [7:19] meeting the and meeting those policy objectives of again, ensuring [7:21] that our electricity grid remains reliable remains affordable. Um, and [7:26] continues to, to operate at, at high degrees of efficiency. [7:29] Unsurprisingly, the Bruce power site played a fundamental role in [7:32] that, that planning document in the integrated energy plan. The [7:36] plan speaks to the importance of the major component, uh, [7:39] replacement program that is taking place, uh, currently at Bruce [7:42] Power as part of our life extension work. Uh, it [7:44] talked about growing our site output. So right now Bruce [7:47] Power is about a 6, 500 megawatt site, uh, talked [7:51] about growing that site output to 7, 000 megawatts through [7:54] our project 2030 program, which is, uh, a program that [7:57] we've, we're undertaking through some of our MCR work to [8:00] get the most that we can out of our existing [8:02] eight units at site, um, the, the plan speaks about [8:06] the potential refurbishments of units one and two down the [8:09] road. So obviously existing MCR work, uh, with contains units [8:13] three to eight within scope. We're looking, the system operator [8:16] is exploring what it would take to, uh, and we [8:18] are exploring what it would take to potentially refer as [8:20] units one and two in the 2040s. Talked about the [8:23] role of Bruce Power and producing cancer fighting isotopes that [8:26] are delivered across the world and supporting global supply chains. [8:29] And then unsurprisingly talked about the Bruce C project, which [8:32] we'll, we'll dig into here this into this evening. So [8:35] yeah, move on. We can move on to the next [8:37] slide. So in now that we've kind of mapped out [8:41] the demand is growing. The province has, has set the [8:44] policy conditions for meeting that new demand. And they understand [8:47] that Bruce C fits or the Bruce Heap as a [8:49] potential for meeting that new demand. We like to ask [8:52] the question of why us, why are we looking at [8:53] the Bruce Power site? What makes this a viable option [8:56] for the system operator when it comes to new electricity [8:59] generation here in the province? And there's, there's kind of [9:02] three really significant strategic advantages. The first is the people [9:05] that's around the site. We have access to a skilled [9:08] workforce who understand how to work on these projects, who [9:11] know how to, to build big things where when you [9:14] look at the scope of our major component replacement project, [9:17] we're effectively doing new build type work every single day [9:20] on site in replacing those major components of our units, [9:24] uh, so really fundamentally we have access to a skilled [9:26] workforce, a supply chain existing here locally who is supporting, [9:30] uh, safe, clean, reliable operations. And we have strong local [9:34] leadership. We know that the municipalities, the municipal leaders that [9:38] surround the site and leaders in our communities understand nuclear. [9:43] They have a commitment to seeing that our sector thrive [9:46] within the region. And really we count that as a [9:48] significant strategic advantage. The second one being that we have [9:51] an existing site. So we are not talking about expanding [9:55] site boundaries. We're not talking about a new build site [9:57] offsite with the Bruce C project is explored within our [10:01] existing site boundary. And there's, there are some pretty significant [10:03] advantages when it comes to having an established site for [10:06] new electricity generation. And when you compare that to a [10:09] potential, what we call a green field project where you're [10:12] looking at starting a site net new. We have transmission [10:14] running to the site, uh, we have, uh, again, an [10:18] existing infrastructure on site that can support a new build [10:20] program. And that really presents, uh, number of significant advantages. [10:24] One of those key advantages that the rolls into the [10:26] third point is that we have known, we have no [10:29] understanding of the effects of our site, uh, in terms [10:31] of baseline operations when it comes to interactions with the [10:34] natural environment. So we have a well studied site that [10:37] has been supported by environmental protection programs for, for decades. [10:41] And we have a good base of knowledge to be [10:43] able to begin, uh, the assessment work required to explore [10:47] new electricity generation here in the province. We can move [10:50] on to the next slide. So that leads us to [10:52] the Bruce C project. And what is the Bruce C [10:55] project? Well, fundamentally the Bruce C project is Bruce Power [10:58] exploring the edition of up to 4, 800 megawatts of [11:01] new nuclear capacity at the existing Bruce Power site. And [11:05] we're undertaking that assessment work through a integrated impact assessment [11:09] process, which is a federally regulated process led by the [11:13] impact assessment agency of Canada and the Canadian nuclear safety [11:16] commission because we're a nuclear project. Our impact assessment is [11:19] a bit unique and incorporates the expertise of the Canadian [11:23] nuclear safety commission. It also includes an additional component that [11:26] other impacts don't include, which is a license to prepare [11:29] site, which is a specific requirement for new nuclear generation. [11:33] You're required to have that license before you can perceive [11:35] with work. So our impact assessment is integrated. And it [11:38] in that it includes the CNSC as well as that [11:40] license to prepare site application as part of our process. [11:44] Through this work, Bruce Power is going to assess the [11:46] environmental, the economic, the social and the health impacts of [11:50] a Bruce C project. What would that project look like [11:52] on the region is the fundamental question that we're seeking [11:55] to answer. And we're going to be doing that in [11:57] a spirit of proactive engagement and, and transparency with indigenous [12:01] nations and communities as well as local municipalities and the [12:05] public. Move on to the next slide. So this, this [12:10] slide gives you a picture of what the impact assessment [12:12] process looks like. Uh, it's a lengthy process. We are [12:15] currently in the impact statement phase. We formally entered the [12:19] impact assessment process back in August, 2024, when we submitted [12:23] what's called our initial project description. These, uh, these processes [12:26] are very, very cleverly. They're used very clever names. The [12:29] initial project description is effectively an early description of what [12:33] the project is. So when we submitted that two regulators, [12:36] uh, we formally entered the planning process for the, the [12:39] impact assessment. And what happened at that point is the [12:43] federal regulators. So the impact assessment agency and the Canadian [12:46] suit nuclear safety commission. They took that initial project description [12:49] and they developed what's called our integrated Taylored Impact statement [12:53] guidelines. Those guidelines effectively set out the list of requirements [12:57] that we must, uh, satisfy or what we must assess [13:00] as the proponent for this project in what's called our [13:03] impact statement. When we received those Taylor Impact statement guidelines [13:07] from the regulators, we officially entered what's called the impact [13:10] statement phase. And that's the, the phase that we're in [13:12] now. If we can move on to the next slide. [13:15] So during the impact statement phase, that's really the phase [13:18] of the, of the impact assessment process that's heavy on [13:21] the proponent. It's when we do the work to understand [13:24] what the potential effects of this project will be on [13:28] the communities that surround our site, the people that surround [13:30] our site and the natural environment that surrounds our site. [13:33] So through this process, we'll be documenting existing conditions. So [13:37] in order to measure the effect of something, you need [13:39] to understand where you're starting from. So it's significant amount [13:41] of work has been going into documenting the conditions as [13:44] we see them here today on the ground. Once we've [13:48] documented those existing conditions, we will assess the potential positive [13:51] and negative effects of the project. So, uh, we know [13:54] we understand that there can be significant advantages of having [13:57] this project come. But we also know that projects of [13:59] this magnitude come with challenges. And so for any of [14:02] those negative effects, we will undertake work to provide mitigation [14:06] strategies on those negative effects. And for any positive effects, [14:10] we'll be looking to amplify those measures. So what can [14:12] we do, uh, to get the, the most juice for [14:14] our squeeze, if you will on those positive, uh, positive [14:17] impacts that we expect. Um, and all throughout this process [14:20] will be engaging, uh, with indigenous nations and communities with [14:23] the public with local municipalities. In fact, some of our, [14:26] our info sessions that we've had here in Walkerton have [14:28] been the most well attended sessions that we've had through [14:31] our Public Engagement efforts. I think we had back in [14:33] the fall, we had more than 75 people come out [14:35] to a single session to learn more about the project [14:38] and hear about the types of things that we're measuring [14:40] through this work, uh, onto the next slide, please. So [14:44] to give you a sense of what's happening now, uh, [14:46] and you've heard me probably say engagement about six times [14:48] already tonight, but engagement is absolutely critical to the impact [14:51] assessment process. We're actively engaging with indigenous nations and communities [14:56] with local municipalities with the public as we undertake this [14:59] work. We have been, uh, undertaking significant effort to collect [15:04] those baseline, uh, data to support those, uh, those baseline [15:08] conditions that I described on a previous slide. We're doing [15:11] that with respect to socioeconomic data, uh, cultural data, uh, [15:15] archaeological work, environmental data all to support those baseline or [15:19] existing conditions reports that we'll be part of our impact [15:21] statement. And we've begun undertaking those effects assessments. So starting [15:25] to understand how the project will change those existing conditions [15:28] that we've measured onto the next slide, please. Setting aside [15:34] the impact assessment process that the impact assessment process just [15:37] to wrap up on, on impact assessment, uh, we intend [15:40] to submit our impact statement later this year, uh, at [15:44] once we submit that, that, uh, that impact statement, we [15:46] will enter the assessment phase of the process all in [15:49] the, we expect the federal government to make a decision, [15:52] uh, on our impact assessment and that license to prepare [15:55] site application by early 2028. That's the timeline that we're [15:58] working on right now. But setting aside impact assessment for [16:01] a moment, we are also advancing what's called Bruce C [16:05] pre - development work. And many of you will have, [16:07] uh, have heard about an announcement that was made earlier [16:09] this year in May with the government of Ontario where [16:12] the government announced support for pre - development work, uh, [16:16] in support of the Bruce C project through pre - [16:18] development, which doesn't have a specific tie into the impact [16:22] assessment directly, uh, we're undertaking an activities such as technology [16:26] selection, uh, workforce and commercial planning, uh, estimating the cost [16:31] of site preparation activities. So that site preparation phase of [16:35] work looking at understanding or getting some early cost estimates [16:38] for that work, uh, developing cooling water strategies, uh, and [16:42] we're also undertaking significant efforts when it comes to community [16:45] readiness and indigenous engagement. This work all proceeds as I [16:48] described in parallel with the impact assessment. Um, we can [16:52] maybe move to the next slide. And a significant portion [16:54] of that work and happy to answer any questions from [16:56] council this evening on, on this scope of work. Um, [17:00] we've launched an assessment fund as part of our pre [17:03] - development work. So the regional municipal readiness assessment fund [17:07] is a program that we've created at Bruce Power to [17:09] really support municipal lead readiness assessment work that should be [17:13] undertaken in anticipation of a potential positive outcome on the [17:18] project. So really looking to make, uh, application - based [17:21] funding available to municipalities around the Bruce Grey and here [17:25] on region to support that municipal lead work in preparation [17:28] of a potential Bruce C project. And we've, uh, we've [17:31] released the fund, the application intake window has been open [17:33] since June 1st. It'll close on August 1st. And we're [17:37] looking for projects that can be completed early by the [17:39] end of 2027 is our target. Um, and projects, uh, [17:43] seeking no more than 75, 000 dollars from the fun [17:46] just to ensure that we have resources to support a [17:48] good number of projects across the region. And we've, uh, [17:50] included a number of eligible categories. And I know, uh, [17:53] staff with the municipality of Brockton have, have undertaken some [17:57] effort to, to propose some options for, uh, for council [17:59] as well too. And be happy to discuss the, the [18:02] fund in Greater Detail, uh, during Q and A and [18:05] maybe just onto the next couple slides, the, the next [18:08] slide just gives you some information, uh, or ways that [18:11] you can stay up to date on the project. Our [18:13] Bruce C project registry page is a tremendous resource for [18:15] some of our technical regulatory documents. All of our, our [18:19] guidelines, all of our submissions, uh, to the federal regulators [18:23] are available on our registry page. So please feel free [18:25] to access, uh, that resource and feel free to reach [18:28] out if you have any questions. We also do have [18:30] a Bruce Power engagement page where you can can visit [18:32] and find more information, uh, from us about the project [18:35] and feel free to, to email us anytime, uh, with [18:39] that, uh, Mr. Mayor. I'm happy to answer any questions [18:41] that, uh, questions from council. Yes, Councillor [18:50] McClain. I don't thank you, Chad, for the, uh, presentation [18:53] of a question more. Just thank you very much for [18:55] coming updating council. Um, it's a huge project with lots [18:59] of benefits, but it's really important along the way, uh, [19:01] to have the touchstones of the impact and certainly, uh, [19:04] we're quite excited about that and certainly from, uh, our, [19:08] our community. Have opportunities for engagement along the way in [19:12] the process. So thank you so much. Councillor Clark. Thank [19:18] you. And good evening. Thank you, Chad, for, uh, presenting [19:21] this to us tonight. Certainly a, um, uh, an important [19:24] project and one that's again going to take a lot [19:27] of work to be able to sort of put all [19:29] of this together. So it's great to have someone, uh, [19:31] on that side of it come to present to us [19:33] tonight. So we certainly appreciate that. Um, just going off [19:37] of the one slide where they mentioned that feedback had [19:40] been, uh, sort of looked at from different groups. I'm [19:43] curious specifically about the indigenous nations and the public on [19:46] Bruce C. And as that feedback generally been positive or [19:50] negative. And if negative, I'm curious what those groups concerns [19:54] are to date. Um, I know it's, it's one of [19:57] those things that again, I've heard people on one side [20:00] are really excited for it. Wanted to go forward. And [20:03] then there's obviously people on the other side as well. [20:05] I'm just curious from your perspective what's that sort of [20:07] looked like. Yeah. Three, you Mr. Merritt's, it's a, it's [20:11] a really great question. Um, we, we see lots of, [20:14] uh, lots of really great feedback when it comes to [20:16] the Bruce C project. We never take community support for [20:20] both Bruce Power and for the project for granted, um, [20:23] we did do some, some polling back in 20 and [20:26] late 2025, uh, that showed that residents from across Bruce [20:30] Grey and here on when it comes to support for [20:31] the project. We had about an 86 percent support for [20:34] the project would be good for, uh, the region and [20:40] the and the community that they live in. So really [20:42] again, we're starting from a really good place and lots [20:44] of positive support. We do see a lot of engagement [20:48] and really from a place of genuine curiosity about impacts. [20:51] I would say that the more, uh, when we hear [20:54] concerns from, uh, from members of the community, they're not [20:57] insurmountable concerns. They are concerns that we know we can [21:00] address through mitigation. Uh, we hear a lot about socioeconomic [21:03] effects of the project. So I mean, probably unsurprisingly, but, [21:07] um, uh, topics like housing, healthcare and education and impacts [21:10] on those services and infrastructure become kind of the focal [21:14] point for, uh, for folks who express, you know, concern [21:18] or information they'd like or pieces where they would like [21:21] more information. Like tends to be where, uh, where that's [21:23] focused on. Thank you. And through Mr. Mayor, thank you [21:30] very much, Chad, for being here tonight in the presentation. [21:33] Um, I just want to acknowledge the importance of keeping [21:35] members of council and the Public informed on an initiative [21:38] of this size. Uh, it's certainly going to be, I [21:40] think a great contribution to our community, not only here [21:43] regionally, but also throughout the province of Ontario in ensuring [21:45] that, uh, electricity demands are met in the future. Uh, [21:48] especially as we have more dependencies on electricity itself. Um, [21:53] I wanted to speak about two things. Uh, the first [21:55] is around the timeline. You mentioned around the impact assessment [21:58] later this year, uh, with the idea that a license [22:01] to prepare would be issued in around 20, 28, uh, [22:04] when would you see sort of peak project, uh, outlook? [22:07] Is that still from that point about 10 years out? [22:10] Um, or they'll just pause there and ask you that [22:12] question. When would you anticipate sort of peak project to [22:14] be fully underway. Yeah. Three of you, Mr. Mary, another [22:19] really great question. So what we'll just walk through the, [22:22] the timeline for sure. I think that's an excellent exercise. [22:24] So, um, we're in the impact statement phase of the [22:27] project now expecting that to, to conclude later this year [22:31] with the submission of the impact statement, um, as you [22:34] rightly pointed out, uh, impact assessment would run until early [22:36] 2028. And that includes that license to prepare site application. [22:41] If successful on all fronts, um, site preparation work could [22:44] begin immediately effectively upon receipt of the, uh, the license. [22:50] The site preparation phase of the project is about a [22:52] three year window. So we would, uh, we would have [22:54] a site preparation activities ongoing for about three years, uh, [22:58] following, which would be a 14 year construction window for [23:01] the project. So, uh, kind of mid, mid construction period [23:05] is when we see that, that peak activity. And the, [23:10] uh, further follow up question, you mentioned about being able [23:12] to potentially speak more to the fund that's been established [23:15] in terms of readiness. Um, I'm curious given the timeline [23:19] how the studies, which really have expiry dates to them, [23:22] you know, we can do extensive studies, spend thousands of [23:25] dollars, uh, and see no value in return for studies. [23:28] We've seen that here in Brockton before. Um, I'm curious [23:30] about how I advancing on studies are going to help [23:33] us in 2031 and beyond if we commence those today [23:37] with a timeline of 2027. So are there abilities to [23:40] use those funds for other things that really advance current [23:44] initiatives in municipalities that will in fact assist in delivering [23:47] on the impact and the overall community going forward. Through [23:52] you, Mayor? We are really focused on understand getting an [23:55] early assessment of initiatives that must be undertaken to or [23:58] should be undertaken to support broader, uh, regional readiness. So, [24:02] um, I think to, to the point of studies, I [24:04] hear, I hear the, the general concern. I think what [24:07] we're hoping to do is get a sense of, uh, [24:10] of broadly across the region, what needs to be done [24:12] in preparation for, uh, for the project in the scale [24:16] of the, the Bruce C project. And really, we're, that's [24:19] where we're looking to municipal leadership to provide us with, [24:21] uh, with that expertise on what you need for your [24:24] community, uh, to succeed and to be ready for a [24:27] project of, of this scale, uh, and would hope that [24:30] I think that we're anticipating a number of really great [24:32] projects to be, uh, to be proposed by the, by [24:34] the municipalities we work with. Consult your valley. Thanks, Mayor. [24:39] And thanks, Chad. As you know, it's probably the second [24:41] or third time I've seen this presentation, but I do [24:43] appreciate it in the chance to ask you a couple [24:45] of questions. I think further to Councillor Elfick's comment, I [24:48] think, um, as, as perhaps by way of feedback, um, [24:51] I certainly recognise the importance of the, you know, these [24:53] readiness studies now. But, you know, maybe a message to [24:56] the Bruce Power team is that as these years progress, [24:59] you know, hopefully that there's continued partnership and opportunities for [25:01] funding where it's appropriate in relation to the project for [25:04] municipalities and the clean energy region, building off that with [25:08] this new, um, you know, the federal government is introduced [25:10] these projects of national interest, the National Project's Office. There's [25:14] also the nuclear strategies. All these things I'm sure come [25:16] across your desk every day. Should there be, and I [25:18] know you, you can't read the tea leaves necessarily, but [25:21] should there be, you know, an acceleration of this project [25:23] or it's identified by the federal government as a priority. [25:26] And it would, I guess, could you touch on or [25:28] hypothesize with the IA process be sped up? Could a [25:31] couple of years between now and 2031 be shaved off. [25:34] Hypothetically? And if so, I guess what would that look [25:36] like on Bruce Powers end. Through you, Mary? Another great [25:42] question. I think we have, uh, signed what's called a [25:45] project charter with the impact assessment agency of Canada and [25:48] the Canadian nuclear safety commission. Uh, that, that bounds the [25:51] timelines of our, of our impact assessment process. And so [25:54] we're working, uh, in conjunction with that, with that signed [25:57] charter for the, the impact assessment process. Just to follow [26:01] up, if I may. So I guess despite of that, [26:03] you won't get grandfathered in necessarily to a more condensed [26:06] timeline. You'll be sticking with what's in place regardless of [26:08] these other, I guess, national policy changes. Is that a [26:11] fair assessment. Three. Yeah. We're, we're proceeding on the assumption [26:16] that the, the timelines outlined in the project charter are [26:20] the timelines that will stand. Okay. Thank you. Okay. And [26:25] you further questions. No. Okay. Well, thank you very much [26:30] for your, your work. Chad. And as you can see, [26:33] a lot of questions from local councils about, uh, how, [26:37] how to get ready for this project. And I think, [26:40] um, the Bruce power team and the county have really [26:43] coordinated the this approach to, uh, look at all of [26:47] the, uh, the angles for the project. I think that's [26:50] great. It's great work. It's learning from some of the [26:53] lessons. I know on the MCR came. I was, um, [26:58] was a new mayor. And we all thought that, uh, [27:01] the gold rush. And there'd be a bonanza. And I [27:04] don't think any of us looked at maybe some of [27:06] the, um, the downsides, like the, uh, housing issues that [27:10] it would create. And so I think it's just, uh, [27:13] great that your team's looking at how to best prepare [27:16] for this, uh, huge mega project. And so that, uh, [27:21] all the communities could benefit. So thank you very much. [27:24] Thank you. Appreciate it. [27:36] Okay. That would lead us into. The minutes. Moved by [27:45] Councillor Tavalli and Deputy Mayor Hutchin that we approved the [27:50] June 23rd minutes. All those in favor. Carried. Then we've [27:59] got the, uh, now we're into Reports. And on the [28:05] topic of Chad's presentation, we've got Report One Regional Readiness [28:11] Assessment Fund. By Councillor Tavalli. Second, Debmir Hutchin that we [28:16] approve report CIO eight regional municipality, Ridness Assessment Fund Bruce [28:20] C, prepared by Sonya Watson, CEO, and doing so support [28:24] staff applying through the regional Mispala readiness assessment fund for [28:28] the following studies. Municipal Service Delivery and organisational review. Municipal [28:31] operation needs assessment study, East Ridge Business Park Servicing and [28:36] Implementation Strategy. Councillor Trevalli. Thanks Mayor Peabody and I appreciate [28:41] the report from staff. I think, um, given the fact [28:43] that, uh, at least to my understanding, and that's where [28:46] I'll get to in my question, that the impact on [28:48] the tax rate with these studies. I think they will [28:49] be beneficial. All three of them in our long - [28:52] term planning with and without Bruce C. So certainly support [28:55] as proposed. I guess my question would be, does staff [28:58] anticipate in the application applying for the full 75 in [29:02] each? Or are you going to have more estimated figures [29:04] based on, you know, previous types of studies, I guess [29:07] some could come in at 35, 40, 50 grand. So [29:10] will the application kind of break it out by cost [29:13] as opposed to just doing the max of 75, which [29:15] maybe not as good for a chances in my mind. [29:21] Through Mer Peabody, I have attaining quotes at this time. [29:24] So most of them are from discussions very close to [29:28] the 75, 000 dollar range It tried to pick, um, [29:31] projects that would fit into that. So, um, it will [29:35] be close, but yes, based on further, uh, discussions might [29:38] be slightly lower. Yeah. So just to sort of follow [29:45] up on that question, um, and that sort of goes [29:47] into where, um, mine was going as well. What's the [29:51] probability or is there a chance that the funding is [29:54] it underfunds and the, the application or the project that [29:56] we submit for goes over the 75, 000. So first [30:00] question is that a possibility second part to that question, [30:03] if it is a possibility, are we able to back [30:05] out once we get more of a concrete quote? I [30:08] just again, don't want to apply for 75, 000 and [30:11] it costs 125, 000 and we're on the hook for [30:13] an additional 50 on something that may be too early [30:17] or we may or may not need. Body. We will [30:24] be scoping the projects to, um, align within that budget [30:29] mind. I can't guarantee that there's not a possibility that [30:33] a tender would come in more than or across proposal [30:35] may come in a bit higher. But we will be, [30:39] you know, adapting our, um, Recross for proposals to include [30:43] staff time to work on these projects to try to [30:45] get them within this range. Thank you, indeed, through Mr. [30:51] Mayor. Um, you know, I appreciate the recommendations by staff [30:54] and the report. I do think that as a municipality, [30:56] we need to take advantage of available funds to conduct [30:59] some of these studies. Um, my concern is, uh, when [31:02] I read the definition for the municipal service delivery review [31:05] and also the municipal operations needs assessment. I see a [31:08] number of overlapping themes. Um, and what I'm concerned about [31:11] is there's not really a lot contained in the recommendations [31:14] for infrastructure planning. Um, you know, looking at impacts, uh, [31:18] on things like water usage in our communities, uh, looking [31:20] at, uh, road network. And I know the county's going [31:23] to do the transportation studies, but certainly, um, looking at [31:26] how we are going to connect in terms of transportation [31:28] and also in land development overall. And I know we [31:31] were just coming out of a official plan review. Um, [31:34] so I'm just, I'm mindful about whether we have the [31:37] right things that we're asking for, I do think we [31:39] should apply. I know the deadline is quite, uh, closest, [31:44] but I would certainly be open to seeing us consider [31:46] more other attributes along like workforce, uh, readiness. Um, I'm [31:51] just struggling a little bit to be honest with the [31:52] timeline. We're sitting here in 2026, uh, project, uh, 2031. [31:58] How are these are really going to inform the future, [32:00] uh, for us to actually have tangible and good, reliable [32:03] information moving forward. I think that, um, it's a good [32:06] snapshot in time, I suppose, but I really want to [32:09] ensure that we're thinking about all of the impacts throughout [32:11] our municipality. And I find that a number of these, [32:14] uh, items that we're talking about here are really closely [32:16] wedded in one area. And it'd be great to expand [32:19] that to think to things like workforce, uh, readiness and [32:22] also, uh, looking at other land development opportunities that we [32:24] would have. So I don't know if that's an opportunity [32:26] for us to consider making those changes here tonight or [32:29] tasked after those and making the final submissions. Um, but [32:32] I don't think that we need both a municipal services [32:34] review and an operation needs assessment study when a number [32:37] of those things by even their staff report overlap. Through [32:46] your Meripodi, uh, noted, I guess the municipal operations needs [32:50] assessment is to focus more directly on, um. On our, [32:57] um, in addition to staff on our facilities on, um, [33:01] we're, it's going to take into account, like I noted [33:03] there, that we already do have a road study rule [33:07] and a throughout Walkerton. Um, we also have our building [33:10] condition assessments that we can now incorporate all this information [33:13] to look at how we need to plan our facilities [33:16] for the future based on our road networks based on [33:19] our existing capacity of staff, um, pending growth that's projected [33:26] versus when Bruce C comes. So that's study is very [33:31] specific to our operations needs. There, I would agree there [33:36] may be, um, some small overlap within looking at a [33:39] whole municipal service delivery review. Um, again, we had a [33:43] municipal service delivery view done in 2015. Um, it was [33:47] a great basis. We've implemented a lot of those things [33:50] that came out of that review, um, hired the By [33:54] - law enforcement officer as one of those suggestions that [33:57] came out of there. Um, so we don't have that [34:00] guiding document to really look now at our service delivery [34:05] and how we do equip them municipality. For workforce readiness. [34:10] For the future. Okay. Well, if I could comment on [34:17] that, the, um, priority there to me would be the [34:19] East Ridge business park. And, uh, as, as we know, [34:24] there will be potential for subcontractors. Who are manufacturing components. [34:32] For the, um, Reactor to, uh, set up operations. And [34:36] I think in, in terms of the, uh, surrounding municipalities, [34:40] our business park is best set up, uh, to capture [34:43] that. There's some other good business parks, but ours is [34:45] just fantastic. So if we can, uh, make sure that [34:48] 40 acres that we bought is opened up. I think [34:53] it'll just be, um, that would be, um, that would [34:57] be my priority for getting that. So it's good you [34:59] asked that question, Chad, because it allowed me to, uh, [35:01] explain to Chad what, uh, what my number one priority [35:04] is on that list. So, okay. Thank you. Um, I [35:10] just wondered, was there a limit to the number of [35:12] applications we could make. There is not a limit. It's [35:18] more to staff time. It's based on it's staff time [35:20] working with a consultants, um, and looking at our existing [35:23] needs, these all were viable projects that our senior management [35:28] whole team identified based on the, you know, existing studies [35:31] that we already have. And, you know, we, we do [35:34] understand already what our water infrastructure requirements are. Um, so [35:40] these were in addition to areas that we needed all [35:43] felt we needed to look at. And just, uh, maybe [35:49] further to that. What is the anticipated commitment for staff [35:52] for staff time if all three of these reviews were [35:54] to go ahead, um, just looking at the project runway, [35:58] um, having them awarded, having them completed in 2027. It [36:01] would seem if all three were approved that it would [36:03] take a considerable amount of stuff time to assist in [36:06] preparing these reviews. Through you my peabody, they would, they [36:11] would take, uh, time, you know, the different departments that [36:14] would be assigned to each of these. So I don't [36:16] have a number. Tim. And so just out of curiosity, [36:21] is that something that's part of the overall costing allocation? [36:24] Or is it just the studies that are covered. Just [36:28] the studies are covered in the 75, 000. Yes. Three [36:36] RP body, you know, I brought forward these options as [36:38] all, um, needed projects. It's certainly up to council on [36:42] if they only want to narrow it down to one, [36:44] uh, want to take as big of our, um, leverage [36:48] as big opportunity as we could for our needs, um, [36:51] without using the tax base. Um, but again, it's up [36:55] to council. Yeah. Just one small follow up question. If [37:02] we apply, are we allowed to back out of it? [37:05] Like should we get all three and realise this is [37:07] going to be way too much time, um, like, are [37:10] we given more time to think about these? Or is [37:13] if we're accepted that we have to go forward with [37:15] those options as presented tonight. Three MRP body. I think [37:21] in applying for the funding, we would want to do [37:24] it in good faith. There would be an agreement come [37:26] back, um, for council's consideration before we entered that, but [37:30] I think we definitely want to apply, um, with the [37:32] knowledge that we were going to proceed on these. Yeah. [37:38] I would, I would certainly just given the conversation around [37:40] the table. I think that our priority is clear. I [37:42] think I completely agree with Mayor P body. You know, [37:45] our ability for expansion of industrial lands is absolutely critical [37:48] in the municipality and really a really well placed for [37:51] it. I think that should be our focus for this. [37:53] I would certainly support, uh, removing in its entirety, the [37:57] municipal service delivery and organisation review from the motion. And, [38:00] uh, if staff feel, I'd like to hear a little [38:02] bit more about the operations needs, you know, we're hearing [38:04] that we've done transportation. We've done water. We've done infrastructure. [38:09] I'm not sure what the value add is. If we [38:11] can, if we actually proceed with that anyways. So I [38:13] would rather just have our priority here in Brockton focused [38:17] and ensuring that we're actually able to deliver on this [38:19] initiative to be ready, uh, to contribute to the Bruce [38:21] the expansion project. Steve. Yeah. I'm happy with the three. [38:26] I think multiple other municipalities, we know, I think Aaron [38:29] Elder's league. Others that have received this and grey in [38:31] here on our applying for multiple. Um, again, Bruce Power [38:34] will be reviewing these and determining if the link and [38:36] if it's substantial by their parameters. Um, so I don't [38:40] think we need to be overly cautious here. Um, in [38:43] my opinion, I certainly see the preference for the one. [38:45] And I agree with that. Um, as our, you know, [38:47] the best case scenario, if we only get one, it [38:49] would be for Eastridge, but, um, there's no harm in [38:53] my view in applying for the three. So that's the [38:54] way I'm going. All right. Mitch. Yeah. Just one follow [39:00] up piece, uh, to that. I guess again, my only [39:02] concern is sort of twofold one, the staff time involved [39:05] in the three applications. And then secondly, I'm still worried [39:08] about that 75, 000 dollar limit not being hint, hit. [39:12] And we've had this before where we'd be expected prices. [39:14] We've had quotes. We've had, um, reasons to believe a [39:17] price would be something. And then it's double it or [39:19] it's one and a half times it. And so again, [39:21] that's just what concerns me here. If I could get [39:25] again, from staff, I guess what's the confidence that we're [39:27] going to be under that 75, 000? I know you [39:29] can't, uh, guarantee it, but can we sort of aim [39:32] for 50? And if we go over 20, we're still [39:34] good instead of aiming for 75 and going over 20 [39:37] or 30 or 40. I guess I can comment to [39:43] that, that, um, when we put out the request for [39:46] proposal, this still has to be accepted by council. So [39:50] at that time, you know, if for some reason it, [39:53] it comes in way over the expected budget. There's that [39:56] opportunity for, um, for seeing circumstances. Councillor Tribali. Yeah. I [40:01] would just add from previous experience working in South Bruce [40:04] and so on. I think to your point, it's, it's [40:06] very good to be cautious, but I think dealing with [40:08] consultants doing this sort of study is different than like [40:10] a road project where you're dealing with variables like construction [40:12] materials. So I would find it very unlikely that they [40:16] would be going over. And again, you're like you say, [40:18] you put out that RFP, um, and again, if they're [40:20] going to start projecting things out of the scope or [40:22] over the amount that's in the RFP, that's the conversation [40:24] where we need to pull back and say, okay, well, [40:26] that's not what we ask. So you're not within the [40:28] scope. Um, so that's just my own experience obviously defer [40:31] to, um, you know, Sonia's comments on this, but from [40:34] previous experience, that's sort of where I see it. Okay. [40:39] We had a discussion. I'll call the question. All those [40:41] in favor. All those opposed. Okay. The motion's carried. [40:51] Homecoming agreement. Councillor Javeli Demir Hutchin that we receive recort [40:56] 2026 number 15 Walker and Homecoming Agreement prepared by Colleen [41:00] Gillis Director of Community Services for information purposes. Any questions. [41:08] All those in favor. Okay. Thanks Colleen. Do you and [41:12] your staff are working everything out. I, uh, here in, [41:16] um, lots of great things about how things are moving [41:18] along with the homecoming. So, uh, it's quite exciting. So [41:23] thank you for your preparatory works. Ridout Street Culvert. Deputy [41:28] Mayor Hutchin Councillor Ciavalli that we receive report public works [41:31] number six right out street culvert tender prepared by Nicholas [41:34] Schnerdirective operations. And doing so awards the tender to JT [41:37] excavating in the amount of 590, 846 dollars and 76 [41:41] cents. Plus HST Councillor Trevelli. Thanks Mayor. Just a question [41:45] through you to staff. Uh, I read the report that, [41:48] uh, the work is estimated to cost 950, 000, including [41:51] the total tender cost. And of course, we have the [41:53] total tender cost at around 590K here. I guess can [41:56] staff clarified if there is a figure on what those [41:59] X or those separate engineering costs are. And if we're [42:01] of course within that budget or not at this time. [42:07] Yeah. Thank you through you, Mr. Mayor. When we initially [42:10] put this budget together, we looked at the 950, 000 [42:13] looked at, you know, maybe some sidewalk me. We're going [42:15] to expand a little bit. Um, but, you know, we [42:18] have to fall within the guidelines of what, uh, sogging [42:21] valley will allow us to do. So we're not going [42:23] necessarily as big. Uh, there's also been no flooding issues [42:26] there that we need to accommodate or go bigger. So [42:29] we're kind of like for like, it's a steel culvert. [42:32] We're putting in concrete one. Engineering. Uh, I don't have [42:37] that right in front of me, but it's usually, um, [42:39] you know, so we'll be using our engineer on retainer [42:47] for that project. Kim. Thank you. Um, I'm excited that [42:54] we might actually come well under budget. When this project [42:58] is finished, what could you report back to us on [43:00] what the final figures are. Please. Thank you. Hey. All [43:07] in favor. It's carried. June modern wastewater. Dirt Beamer Hutchin [43:13] Councillor Travelli received utilities report 10, 2026 water and wastewater [43:17] prepared by Nicholas Schnurr for information purposes. All those in [43:20] favor. That's carried financial report June 30th. Moved by the [43:27] deputy mayor, seconded by Councillor Trevalli that we receive financial [43:31] report 21, June 30th. Prepared by Trish Sorceratory CFO for [43:37] information purposes. All those in favor. That's carried. Samuel Tax [43:45] Rares to June 30th. Moved by Deputy Mayr Hutchin, seconded [43:50] by Councillor Trelli that we receive report FIN 20 semi [43:53] - annual tax rares to June 30th prepared by Jessica [43:56] Schmidt tax collector for information purposes. Councillor Elfik. Thank you. [44:02] And three, Mr. Mayor, certainly just a comment on the [44:05] report. It's appreciated that council is being apprised of the [44:08] amounts that are outstanding. But the figures certainly tell a [44:11] story, uh, to all of us. I think here and [44:13] anyone reading the report about the arreers that we're in [44:15] 2023 and beyond. At 11 percent, 25 was at 36 [44:21] percent and then heading into 2026, we're at 51 percent. [44:24] So some pretty big jumps, uh, for the percentage of [44:27] total arrears that remain outstanding. Um, and, uh, we'd be [44:31] hopeful to hear from staff at some point around, um, [44:34] you know, how we're going to manage that and what [44:36] sort of steps can we put in place, um, I [44:38] know the limitations, but it would be good to know, [44:40] uh, our plan, uh, given that, uh, total property tax [44:43] arreers, you know, 847, 000 dollars being in a rear. [44:52] So pretty, uh, pretty notable from my point of view [44:55] as it really says report. Thank you. All those in [45:01] favor. It's carried. Beating schedule. Deputy Mayor Hutchin, Councillor [45:10] Tavelli that we receive report from clerk's office. The budget [45:14] and council meeting schedule prepared by Sarah Johnson, Deputy Clerk. [45:18] If you want to Hamilton, Director of Legislative and legal [45:19] services and approves cancelling the proposed budget meeting on Wednesday, [45:23] December 16th at 10 a. m. at the Bruce County [45:26] Council. Um, and further approves the budget meeting dates for [45:31] 2027 to be held at seven at the Bruce County [45:33] Council Chambers electronically through Zoom. East Gribe unless otherwise noted [45:38] in accordance with the procedural by - law. So some [45:42] changes there due to the election, Councillor Trevalli. Thanks, Mayor. [45:46] Yeah. Overall, no problem with the dates, but I do [45:48] feel that as a courtesy and, uh, you know, out [45:50] of a goodwill gesture to our user groups in the [45:52] community, that we could push that September 7th deadline, if [45:55] at all possible. I appreciate the budget work starts now. [45:57] Um, but I think in the midst of a homecoming [46:00] and ploughing match and other community events through the summer [46:02] and fall September 7th is just on the heels of [46:04] a busy summer. And I think a little bit of [46:07] leeway. I think I brought this up last year too, [46:09] if possible, uh, as a date for these service groups [46:11] would be good. I mean, today we're in the middle [46:13] of July. You know, we have to get notice out [46:15] potentially in some form or fashion, I hope to serve [46:18] it to user groups that will be coming forward inevitably. [46:21] Um, so I think if we could even push it [46:22] to the, you know, start of October if staff, you [46:24] know, if that's feasible. Um, and again, we're not going [46:27] to see the budget as a council until January 2027. [46:31] So. Okay, it's a good idea. We'll change that. All [46:40] right. Anything else. All those in favor. That's carried. So [46:47] do we have clarity on that, sorry? Or what's. Okay. [46:50] Thanks. Yeah. Fiona got it. Land acknowledgement moved by Councillor [46:55] Alpha. Excited by Councillor McClain that we receive clerks report [46:58] 13 land acknowledgement protocol policy prepared by Sarah Johnson's deputy [47:01] clerk and Kirk Mugi Corporate Records assistant and doing so [47:04] approves the Byla coming forward adopting the land acknowledgement protocol [47:07] policy and the visual Brockton land acknowledgement protocol. Councillor McClain. [47:15] Through you mayor. Glad to see this protocol. Um, certainly [47:18] I'm quite proud of the work that Brockton's done over [47:21] the last number of years in terms of the truth [47:22] and reconciliation file. Um, and I think that this protocol [47:26] certainly fits within, within that, uh, giving the public an [47:29] understanding of how the land acknowledgement is used and kind [47:32] of why we do it. Um, and, uh, I think [47:34] to sit that up in a protocol is important. Um, [47:37] the other thing I'd like to ask is, um, and [47:39] maybe it was in the report and I didn't quite [47:42] see it. I understand kind of model a little bit [47:44] on Bruce County protocol. Um, does this protocol go to [47:48] Sahn itself, our own once we pass this or have [47:51] we gotten Sawns, uh, feedback on our specific policy here [47:55] protocol. Through you Mayor Peabody, uh, we didn't specifically circulate [48:04] them on the protocol. Um, but it has been based [48:07] on, um, number one information that they themselves have provided [48:12] to the public about land acknowledgements. And secondly, sort of [48:16] from, you know, ongoing, uh, conversations, et cetera, about, um, [48:21] how to be thoughtful about land acknowledgments in general, but [48:24] we can certainly circulate it to some specifically. Sure. Thank [48:27] you. I think that would be a great idea. And [48:29] I was excited to see that the Walk for Wand [48:31] Jack is on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation [48:35] locally here in Brockton on September 30th. So, um, happy [48:38] to be part of that. Also, Travelli. Yeah. Thanks, Mary. [48:42] Just seeking some clarity on some of the language. It [48:44] wasn't entirely clear to me in the protocol. Um, about [48:46] its use at Council and Committee meetings. Like, is it [48:48] implemented as a standing item or it's at the discretion [48:50] of the chair. For you Peabody, I think our intention [48:56] is that, um, while formal council meetings, um, and public [49:01] meetings would still have the land acknowledgement as a standing [49:04] item. What would change is that it wouldn't be as [49:07] prescriptive as it currently is within the procedural bylaw to [49:10] allow for more personal reflection and growth. So there would [49:14] still say something that's landing acknowledgement, but instead of just [49:16] sort of reading something that's been pre - prepared, which [49:19] could still serve as a guide, um, that it should [49:22] be supplemented with some personal reflection or a land acknowledgement [49:26] that's more tailored. Yeah. Sorry. Just as a follow - [49:33] up, but I guess more on the committee meeting side, [49:36] as far as I know, that's not a current practice. [49:37] So again, is it at the discretion or option of [49:39] the chair to read or say or do one? Yes. [49:41] Through you Mayor Peabody, I think our, um, current policy [49:45] even states that it's for regular council meetings. So even [49:48] for special counsel meetings, um, we don't have the land [49:51] acknowledgement as part of that. Standing item for that. So [49:54] I think we would keep that, you know, it's meant [49:57] to be for when, you know, main decisions are being [50:00] made so that it doesn't sort of become something that's [50:02] done as a rote gesture without thought and consideration. Councillor [50:08] Elfik. Thank you. And more so a comment, uh, Mr. [50:12] Mayor threw you that I very much support the report [50:14] and I appreciate it. I was part of the original [50:15] adoption of Brockton's Land Acknowledgement, uh, when it was introduced. [50:19] And I'm, I'm certainly happy to see the work that [50:20] we've done. Uh, what I would be curious to know [50:23] is if there's opportunities for all of us, you know, [50:25] as elected leaders in the community speaking about our own [50:28] work around reconciliation and reconciliation efforts, uh, to really share [50:32] in the delivery of that land acknowledgement, uh, exactly like [50:34] our clerk was saying that one of the core purposes [50:37] is to have that individualized reflection. Uh, that they're not, [50:41] uh, intended to be prescriptive or just read out. It [50:43] should be something coming from, uh, the individual who's at [50:46] the meeting and delivering the meeting. So, uh, I'm just [50:48] wondering if that might be something in the future we [50:50] look at around, um, for a particular meeting or for [50:54] formal council meetings that it rotate even between, uh, the [50:56] members of council to deliver that land acknowledgement to share [50:59] in their own work and their own reflections that they [51:01] would have, uh, in reconciliation efforts. Through you mayor P [51:10] body. Absolutely. There's opportunity for Council to provide feedback to [51:14] clarify how you'd like to incorporate, um, the protocol. If [51:19] you'd like to have a rotation of the land acknowledgement [51:22] at Council Meetings, that's something we could easily incorporate into [51:25] our new procedural bylaw that we would be updating for [51:27] the new term in any event. But certainly I'm happy [51:30] to take any feedback from council about, um, how we [51:33] can kind of best move forward in a way that [51:35] allows for each member of council to provide their personal [51:38] reflection. Okay. Councillor Civali. Yeah. I certainly appreciate Councillor Alfix [51:47] comment and commitment on this. I think that would obviously [51:48] have to be at the discretion of individual members and [51:51] respecting whether that's something they feel comfortable or wish to [51:53] do, you know, similarly if someone wanted to offer a [51:56] prayer at the start of a meeting, not every member [51:57] would necessarily be comfortable. So I think being mindful of [52:00] people's own beliefs or convictions or level of comfort and [52:03] even giving some statement or reflection. So certainly would have [52:05] to be, um, I'm obviously again at the chair's discretion. [52:07] And if it's not something that someone intends to do [52:10] or, or is comfortable, then that would not be meaningful [52:13] either. So. That's my, uh, only supplemental to that. Through [52:17] you mere peabody, perhaps one idea would be that much [52:19] like other items on the agenda, if it's an item [52:22] on the agenda and we don't have a prescriptive statement, [52:25] then, you know, the chairperson could offer whether the comment [52:27] that somebody wants to make at that time. Um, so [52:30] that, you know, Council members would be free to participate. [52:33] Or if not, then, you know, the chairperson could provide [52:35] comment as well. Much like any other item on the [52:37] agenda without sort of being too rigid. So that might [52:40] be one, um, method of dealing with it that provides [52:43] some flexibility. Okay. All those in favor. It's carried. Council [52:51] term Equipment moved by Defner Hutchinson. I'm a Councillor Chevelli [52:54] that we receive report clerk 14, 2027 Council Trim Equipment [52:58] prepared by Fiona Hamilton, Director of Legislative Legal Services and [53:01] doing so approves the purchase of seven laptops for the [53:04] upcoming Council term to be funded from the elections reserve [53:07] fund. Questions. Mitch. Yeah. Thank you. And through you mayor. [53:13] Um, I agree with the, the thought process of rotating [53:16] the laptops for each new, uh, council term. I mean, [53:19] it makes sense from strictly a strategic standpoint to just [53:23] sort of rotate the laptops. And it makes things a [53:25] little bit easier. Uh, a couple of things I, I [53:28] struggle with from the report though is, is the first [53:30] one is the, the work that council's doing on these [53:34] laptops is very minimal. Like truthfully, I think we could [53:37] continue to use these laptops for two, three, four more [53:41] years and be fine. Um, we're using, uh, web browser [53:45] and email and maybe Outlook if you're a lot or [53:48] sorry. Um, word if you're lucky or depending on what [53:51] you're doing. So again, it's not like we're using these [53:53] extensively. So that's my sort of one rationale on it. [53:57] And then on the other side of things as well, [53:59] spending 1700 dollars each of us is what it comes [54:02] out to roughly. Uh, for these new laptops. I also [54:06] wonder if there's cheaper options. If we are going to [54:08] go forward with new ones, uh, that would satisfy counsel [54:11] for what we're doing. Um, I also noticed in the [54:14] report that it had mentioned that, um, these might be [54:18] repurposed to a different department. Um, and I'm just curious [54:21] from staff what those departments are that these would be [54:24] useful for. That's using them less than what we are [54:28] as a group. You mayor P [54:37] buddy. I'll help Fiona with this one. Um, so the [54:42] other departments that we repurposely laptops for kind of go [54:46] across the entire organisation. So it can be summer students, [54:52] um, throughout the organisation. It can be, um, support staff [54:57] that don't need them on a continuous basis, but need [54:59] them for different meetings. Um, and it can be basically [55:03] anybody that needs one, um, that doesn't use it for [55:06] an everyday purpose. Uh, the price point for the laptops, [55:12] um, back and forth a couple of times. It was [55:15] also noted at our Bruce County IT meeting that the [55:19] price of infrastructure is going up. And I did hear [55:22] back from, um, the supplier that we can expect monthly [55:26] increases on the hardware itself. Um, it's not just the [55:33] laptop itself. It's also all the software that comes with [55:36] it. So there is added cost for the software and [55:39] the security. Software that goes along with it as well. [55:43] So. I think that answered all of your questions. There's [55:46] a few of them. So. Okay. Thank you. And through [55:54] you to, to staff, uh, you know, I recall, um, [55:57] in the previous term of council, uh, were similar report [56:00] came forward and council was asked to weigh in with [56:02] respect to the selection of the quotes and looking at [56:05] a regional provider or a local, uh, provider that was [56:07] able to do that in our own municipality. I'm just [56:10] wondering, uh, noting from the report, it sort of speaks [56:12] to obtaining a single quotation for approximately 12, 000, uh, [56:15] is this something that we have gone out and asked [56:17] other vendors locally. If there is any other vendors in [56:19] our own municipality that may be able to provide laptops [56:21] for council. Through you, Merry Peabody, uh, not at this [56:26] point. It's just a matter of trying to get the [56:28] authorization to move forward so that we can order them [56:30] and have them ready and purchase before we continue to [56:33] see price increases for the, um, devices. Um, if approved [56:37] by council, then staff can certainly go out and get [56:40] formal quotations from everybody. Um, but I would expect a [56:44] quicker turnaround since the quotes are typically only valid for [56:47] five days when we receive them. Sorry. Is that still [56:51] the intention then? So if council were to proceed with [56:53] authorizing it, we will still get quotes. We will still [56:56] look at vendors within our, our municipality first. I just [56:59] know that was a conversation point in the last term [57:01] of council. Three me repay buddy. Yes. Steph will go [57:05] out and get the quotes and review the information. Um, [57:08] that specific incident that you're speaking to. That's when we [57:12] purchased like 25 desktops. And it was a large amount [57:16] of, um, computers that we purchased. Um, so price point, [57:21] it was a bit different. But yes, we can certainly [57:23] ask for some different quotes and make sure that we [57:25] get the best price point for the organisation. Yeah. Just [57:34] one follow up. It's not, it's not really a question [57:36] more of just a statement and, and I think ultimately [57:39] where I struggle is again, laptops and hardware pricing is [57:41] going up. It's expensive right now. And I think the [57:43] laptops that we have ultimately are still, uh, sufficient and [57:47] would work for what we're doing. I would have no [57:49] prom staying on this one for, um, however long I [57:52] should be here. And so, um, I personally just can't [57:56] agree with going out and spending 1700 dollars for seven [57:59] new laptops when these ones are working, especially in a [58:01] situation where again, laptop and hardware prices are so expensive [58:05] right now. Okay. We've got some different opinions. I'll call [58:11] the questions. And see where it goes. All those in [58:15] favor. All those opposed. Okay. Motion is defeated. [58:25] Right. I'll have to be sure to be gentle on [58:31] my laptop then as we go forward. Well, this, this [58:35] term accounts have been pretty good. Trish, Trish will attest [58:40] that in my first term of Council has pretty bad [58:42] at, uh, breaking everything. Did they have laptops in your [58:46] first term of council Mayor? I've had a good run. [58:49] No, the first is mayor. Okay. All right. There. You're [58:53] right. It was just, it was just a huge paper [58:55] copy every week. Finder. Okay. All right. Okay. Uh, integrity [59:05] commissioner. Moved by Deptimer Hutchin. So you're going to be [59:08] Councillor Trevalli that we receive report. Clerks 15 Integrity Commissioner [59:13] Retainer. 26 to 30 prepared by Fiona Hamill Director of [59:16] Legionay Service in doing so proves a Byla coming forward [59:19] to a point ADR chambers as the municipality of Brockton's [59:22] integrity commissioner for the remainder of the 2026 calendar year [59:26] until December 31st, 2030. All those in favor. That's carried. [59:37] Okay. Final report Basra. Deptimer Hutchin, Councillor Ciavelli that we [59:42] approve report clerk number 16 Basmer Municipal Services Corporations Business [59:46] Case Study prepared by Fiona Hamilton. Director of Legislative Legal [59:50] Services for Information Purposes. Okay. We do have a report [59:58] on this coming in camera also. Okay. All those in [1:00:02] favor. Let's carry it. All right. Takes us along to, [1:00:11] um. Public Notification. And we have, um, Summer Street Fest [1:00:19] on Friday, 10 o'clock downtown Walker to exciting deals from [1:00:23] our downtown businesses. Family friendly activities and music. Music in [1:00:27] the Park, July 25th, August 29th, music in the Park [1:00:30] and August 30th at 1 p. m. for a special [1:00:32] performance at the Heritage Garden, bring your own blanketer lawn [1:00:35] chair donations. Welcome. Contact Committee Services Department or 8810625 for [1:00:41] more information. Walker and Homecoming Walkerton turns 155 this year. [1:00:46] Celebrate this exciting milestone at the Walkerton Homecoming. Happening July [1:00:50] 30th to August 3rd. A Committee - wide event brought [1:00:53] to life by passionate local volunteers. Get ready for a [1:00:56] weekend filled with fund memories and hometown pride. Municipal officers [1:01:00] closing for civic holiday. They'd be closed August 3rd for [1:01:03] the Civic Holiday and Reopen August. 4th. And then finally [1:01:09] we have our Green Bin Registration Form to municipalities implementing [1:01:13] single source organics. It's part of the program. We'll be [1:01:17] providing 45 litre bins at no cost that currently reside [1:01:21] that receive curbside collection in Walkerton until August 28th. Residents [1:01:25] are invited to voluntarily submit a Green Bin registration form [1:01:28] to receive a green bin at no cost. Green bins [1:01:31] will be delivered to residents in advance. Visitbrockton. ca Green [1:01:36] Ben for more information than we have some correspondence requiring [1:01:40] action 12. 1 a letter on the e - scooters. [1:01:49] Through you Mayor Peabody. It's certainly up to council to [1:01:53] provide direction to staff with respect to both of these [1:01:55] letters. But at a minimum staff would suggest that, um, [1:01:59] letters of acknowledgement and appreciation would be provided to both [1:02:02] of those letters, um, provided there's no other further direction. [1:02:10] Yeah. Yeah. Just speaking about, uh, 12 point one first [1:02:12] related to e scooters, you know, the goal of the [1:02:15] municipality was really to conduct a review and compare, uh, [1:02:18] and look at what options existed either by enabling and [1:02:21] enacting a regulation or simply maintaining the status quo, which [1:02:24] is the provincial regulations. And I think there may be [1:02:27] a disconnect, um, in understanding that what Brockton, uh, did [1:02:32] Brockton did not in fact impose any ban, uh, Brockton [1:02:36] chose not to proceed with enrolling in any pilot program, [1:02:40] which would have enabled, uh, e - scooters in the [1:02:42] community, uh, and the number of reasons. And I'll just [1:02:45] refer back to the previous Council meeting where that decision [1:02:47] was made. But more importantly, the understanding is that you [1:02:51] still need to, even if you're operating one of these [1:02:53] devices, be over the age of 16 and wearing a [1:02:56] helmet if you're into the age of 18. And there [1:02:59] does seem to be this idea that young people in [1:03:02] our community who are under the age of 16 have [1:03:04] been prohibited by a result of council's recent decision, uh, [1:03:08] and that is not actually, uh, factual, uh, it's a [1:03:11] provincial decision. It's a provincial regulation that sets out those [1:03:15] limitations. And I think that whatever we can do to [1:03:17] continue our education on safe riding, as is mentioned here [1:03:20] in the letter. And to continue reviewing what options might [1:03:23] exist for those users that are over the age of [1:03:25] 16, uh, at some point in the future, potentially use [1:03:28] Brockton roadways to operate their scooters. I think we're committed [1:03:31] to leaving that conversation open and ongoing, uh, but that [1:03:35] we weren't ready to make that decision in a previous [1:03:37] Council meeting. So we didn't adopt that. And I think [1:03:39] that's very important for the public to understand. Uh, because [1:03:42] we do need to have rules. We do need to [1:03:43] have, uh, more information, more education on these devices throughout [1:03:47] our community and how they're operating and where they're being [1:03:49] operated. So, uh, I certainly agree that we do need [1:03:52] to provide a response, but more importantly about what the [1:03:55] decision was that Brockton Council made versus what provincial regulations [1:03:59] actually overshadow that decision. Thank you. Okay. And that's a [1:04:05] good response. Yeah. Those were very, uh, eloquently put by [1:04:13] Councillor Alpha. And even though a common, I'm a comms [1:04:15] guy. I'm going to be a little more blunt. I [1:04:17] think, yeah, we need to be just clear. We didn't [1:04:18] do a ban. So just, I think communicating that as [1:04:21] Councillor Elfic pointed out, um, what the future brings provincially, [1:04:24] we can wait and see. It's like any province - [1:04:25] wide framework. And secondly, what folks have for toys or [1:04:29] leisure craft in their backyard. I mean, that's something of [1:04:31] their own risk. Um, but nothing is saying, you know, [1:04:34] kids can't get on a good old fashioned bicycle to [1:04:36] bike downtown. And there are rules in place and safety [1:04:39] in place with the bike too. But, um, yeah, we're [1:04:42] just, we just reminded people of what was already there. [1:04:44] We didn't change anything. And I understand that maybe cause [1:04:47] some confusion, but certainly response. I agree. And I appreciate [1:04:50] the advocacy. Hey, Mitch. Yeah. And just one follow up [1:04:56] question of that as well. And when we respond to [1:04:58] this group, I think again, it is important that what, [1:05:00] uh, the two, uh, fellow councillors had mentioned gets mentioned [1:05:04] to them too. And, and ultimately even maybe another social [1:05:07] media push. I know I seen a couple of them [1:05:09] on Facebook there. We had mentioned certain things. And again, [1:05:12] just sort of clarifying and reiterating that, um, yeah, this, [1:05:17] this is in something that council decided we're just going [1:05:19] to ban them. And prior to that, uh, they were [1:05:21] allowed. And so I just think again, education, education, education [1:05:26] and ensuring that the public's aware of sort of what, [1:05:28] um, had went on, uh, during that. And the rationale [1:05:32] for, um, Council's Decision during that. Ultimately, um, safety is [1:05:36] the most important thing that we can do around this [1:05:39] table. And we have to ensure people are safe. Um, [1:05:42] and so, uh, at this time right now, um, it [1:05:46] made sense to go the route that we did and [1:05:47] just follow the provincial government. But in the future, hopefully [1:05:50] we do have some kind of a better framework from [1:05:52] them that we can follow along with. And, um, and, [1:05:56] uh, make it a little bit more easy for these [1:05:58] residents to, uh, to use those items. Okay. And what [1:06:01] do you want to say back about the letter on [1:06:03] the dog park. Steve. Yeah. I just think an acknowledgement. [1:06:08] I myself corresponded with Rose and I certainly am again, [1:06:11] appreciate where she's coming from and the advocacy about, um, [1:06:14] the location. And I do think, you know, we need [1:06:17] to, aside from a response, but we could certainly incorporate [1:06:19] it is that we are working on plans. And hopefully [1:06:22] we have more tangible plans about next year's hopefully more [1:06:24] permanent location up in Eastridge. That's all. Right. Okay. Moves [1:06:31] this along to the information items. Councillor Elfik Councillor McLean [1:06:35] that we receive all items in Section 13. All those [1:06:38] in favor. Carried. Our bylaws. Councillor Elfik, Councillor McClain that [1:06:47] we authorized the following Byleth B Red and Acted Sein [1:06:49] tilt numbers followed 59 compliance audit 60 land acknowledgement 61 [1:06:55] ADR chambers integrity commissioner, 62 homecoming committee financing agreement by [1:07:01] law 63 419 Durham Street East Fox Club bookshop encroachment [1:07:05] agreement. 64 assume Riverview estate subdivision phase four is a [1:07:09] public highway 65 Walker Hill Development grading memorand of all [1:07:14] those in favor. That's carried. The Committee Minutes Councillor [1:07:23] Elfik, Councillor McClain. Oh Councillor Clark that we received the [1:07:29] minutes the following committees. Accessibility advisory committee May 22nd. All [1:07:34] those in favor. That's carried, notice emotion brought forward. Councillor [1:07:41] Clark, Councillor Elfick that we dispensed with a notice of [1:07:44] motion with the procedural biolog. Consider the motion regarding AMO, [1:07:49] all those in favor. That's carried. AMO motion Councillor Clark, [1:07:54] Councillor Elfick that we authorize Council Trevi attending AMO in [1:07:58] Ottawa, August 16th. Being his second conference this year in [1:08:04] accordance with the Council Conference and Convention's policy. Discussion Councillor [1:08:10] McClain. Just to confirm that's because of Councillor Trevalli running [1:08:14] for the executive of email, correct? Yeah. Yeah. Okay. Yeah. [1:08:19] Just one publicly say that. All right. All those in [1:08:23] favor. That's carried. That brings us, um. To, um, business [1:08:33] brought forward. Anybody are that's additional business anybody else. We're [1:08:42] bringing anything up. What's happening in the community business brought [1:08:45] forward. No. Oh, yes. Yes. Yeah. Thanks. Mayor, the deputy [1:08:54] mayor reminded me here. Just want to, um, uh, acknowledge [1:08:57] that, uh, you know, the IPM is coming up and [1:09:00] there was a great community fundraiser on Sunday afternoon out [1:09:03] in CHEPSTO rev up for the match. Um, so just [1:09:05] really thanks to community for showing up. And obviously, uh, [1:09:08] many folks made that event possible. And it really is [1:09:11] an exciting time for our community. So I just want [1:09:13] to acknowledge that that happened. Great to see a number [1:09:16] of members of Council were able to support that as [1:09:18] well. Okay. Councillor Alfik. Yeah. Just building on the same [1:09:23] theme just to acknowledge us will be likely to be [1:09:25] our, well, this will be our last council meeting before [1:09:26] the Walker and Homecoming. So, uh, lots of great work [1:09:29] as we talked about earlier in the meeting, uh, certainly [1:09:31] encourage all members of Council to attend and participate. Uh, [1:09:34] it will be certainly a great event. Lots of activities [1:09:36] planned, uh, great way to incorporate also the Bruce power. [1:09:40] I know we had delegations here earlier, but they'll have [1:09:42] their, uh, fun, fest day on the Saturday. Um, and [1:09:45] it will be a great event for, uh, family friends [1:09:47] and everyone to be reacquainted. So, uh, hope to see [1:09:50] everyone there. Thanks. Mitch. Yeah. And also just want to [1:09:54] comment on another, uh, community event that went on, uh, [1:09:56] over the weekend, the dinner over the Yoca Sippi River, [1:09:59] uh, just outside of Cargill there. And it was, uh, [1:10:01] great event. And I heard them talking and I believe [1:10:03] they had 95 people. So that's up from, uh, all [1:10:06] of the other years as far as I'm aware. I [1:10:08] think they had around 70 or 80 in the past. [1:10:10] So it's great to see that turnout, uh, we, we [1:10:12] had great weather. And, uh, yeah, I was certainly, uh, [1:10:15] a fun evening. Okay. Councillor McClain, uh, this Saturday, uh, [1:10:22] we are hosting at the Walker Deng Golf and Country [1:10:24] Council Curving Club, not Country Club, Curling Club, uh, the [1:10:27] Optimist Junior Golf Championship. We have 25 young golfers who [1:10:31] get a chance to go to the Midwest tournament down [1:10:33] in St. Mary's and winners there get a chance to [1:10:37] play in Florida. So this is our fourth, fourth annual. [1:10:41] Okay. And then, um, so it's great. Lots of great [1:10:45] stuff going on in the community. Just wanted to share [1:10:47] with Council and stuff. I've been getting, um, some complaints [1:10:50] about, uh, Airbnbs and Public Safety. And I know we [1:10:55] rejected that at one point due to staff cost, but [1:11:00] been thinking, um, we should be doing something to, um, [1:11:03] have a registry. There's a number of public safety issues [1:11:07] out there. And, um, I don't want it to be [1:11:10] a cash grab like Northern Bruce Peninsula is doing, for [1:11:14] example, where they've had to hire a staff person to [1:11:17] follow Airbnb listings and then phone them up and say, [1:11:21] Hey, where's your tax for that one week? I don't [1:11:24] want to follow that model. But, uh, so I'd like [1:11:27] to, um, to bring something, um, forward Councillor Travelli. Yeah. [1:11:31] Just to build off that, if I may, or certainly [1:11:33] agree more from an accountability perspective. And, uh, you know, [1:11:36] when certain incidents arise or problems that there can be, [1:11:39] um, whether through Bylar other means appropriate follow up, um, [1:11:42] certainly heard some, um, important feedback from residents that are [1:11:45] late communities about that on the weekend. Um, so certainly [1:11:48] support you in that. And, uh, look forward to further [1:11:50] discussion. Okay. All right. And with that, we'll move to [1:11:56] the closed session at 8 10. And, uh, we're addressing [1:12:00] matters pertaining to a trade secret technical commercial financial information [1:12:03] that belongs to the municipality and has a monetary value [1:12:07] of potential monetary value municipal service corporation for BASRA. Labour [1:12:11] relations municipal services Corporation for BASRA. Personnel matters about a [1:12:16] digital individual, including local board employees, facility restriction request for [1:12:20] reconsideration and litigation, potential litigation, including matters before administrative Tribunals [1:12:26] affecting the MISPELD or local board, a potential settlement instruction. [1:12:31] All those in favor, that's carried. [2:27:44] Member municipality and two independent skills - based voting directors [2:27:48] and that the Councilman Spell Brogni supporter reserved shareholder powers [2:27:51] for BASRA Minicipal Service Corporation assured that major matters remain [2:27:55] subject to shareholder approval and that the Council Multi of [2:27:59] Brockton support the continuation of the existing Basra working group [2:28:02] and the CAO officers as the transition committee through the [2:28:05] implementation planning phase and with the transition committee providing recommendations [2:28:09] to the member municipal councils for final approval. All those [2:28:14] in favor, that is carried. Confirmation of proceedings, Councillor's Elfick [2:28:19] and McClain, that we read the following By - Law [2:28:23] be read and act to sign cell number to follow [2:28:25] 66 July 14th, confirmatory by - law. All those in [2:28:29] favor. That's carried, motion to adjourn at 929. Councillor McClain [2:28:35] and Elfik, and we will meet again August 11th. All [2:28:38] those in favor. That is carried.