[0:00] >> good evening everyone. [0:27] I now call the august fifth, 2026 [0:30] 2026 regular meeting of county [0:31] [0:31] council to order. [0:33] good evening everyone it is nice [0:34] [0:34] to see you in the audience. [0:37] we invite you to join council and [0:39] and administration as we take [0:41] this time to observe a moment of [0:43] [0:43] reflection and that will lead into [0:44] into the singing of our national [0:46] [0:46] anthem. [0:46] [singing of 'o canada'] [1:12] we acknowledge the land on which [2:33] the county of essex is located [2:34] the county of essex is located [2:34] is the traditional territory of [2:36] is the traditional territory of [2:36] the three fires confederacy of [2:38] the three fires confederacy of [2:38] first nations, comprised of the [2:40] first nations, comprised of the [2:40] ojibway, odawa and potawatomie [2:42] ojibway, odawa and potawatomie [2:42] peoples. [2:43] we specifically recognize caldwell first nation and other [2:47] caldwell first nation and other [2:47] first nations which have [2:48] first nations which have provided significant historical [2:50] provided significant historical [2:50] and contemporary contributions [2:52] and contemporary contributions [2:52] to this region. [2:53] to this region. [2:53] we also value the contributions [2:55] of all original peoples of [2:57] of all original peoples of turtle island, who have been [2:58] turtle island, who have been living and working on this land [3:00] living and working on this land [3:00] from time immemorial. [3:00] from time immemorial. [3:00] all members of council are [3:09] present in the chambers this [3:11] evening. [3:11] I believe councillor mcnamara is [3:14] [3:14] expected to arrive later this [3:17] evening, and then we will be [3:21] joining us virtually? [3:22] no? [3:22] undetermined at this point? [3:25] okay, anyways welcome everybody, [3:27] [3:27] nice to see you. [3:28] council members are there any [3:30] disclosures of pecuniary [3:33] interest? [3:33] seeing none, as you know if at [3:35] [3:35] any point during the proceedings [3:37] the [3:37] the matter is raised for which [3:38] you [3:38] you have a conflict, please [3:40] declare at that time. [3:43] before you are the minutes of [3:44] the regular county council [3:45] meeting, that is the one for [3:47] july 15th of 2026. [3:50] any errors or omissions to bring [3:52] [3:52] forward? [3:52] seeing none, the recommendation [3:54] [3:54] is that the minutes of the [3:56] july 15th, 2026 essex county [3:59] council regular meeting be [4:00] adopted as presented, moved by [4:03] [4:03] councillor shepley, seconded [4:05] deputy warden. [4:06] any discussion? [4:08] all in favour? [4:10] opposed? [4:10] that is carried, thank you. [4:14] under delegations and [4:16] presentations, we are going to [4:18] [4:18] start this evening with tyler [4:20] reh, tyler is a resident of [4:22] essex county, he has joined [4:25] council this evening to provide [4:27] a [4:27] a delegation regarding [4:28] artificial intelligence, ai data [4:32] [4:32] centres. [4:32] welcome tyler, we will give you [4:37] [4:37] 10 minutes for your [4:38] presentation. [4:38] the clerk will notify you when [4:41] [4:41] there is one minute left and then [4:43] then following your presentation [4:45] council will [4:45] council will have the [4:46] opportunity to ask you [4:48] questions. [4:48] welcome, please go ahead. [4:52] >> thank you. [4:54] honoured members of county [4:56] council, warden, thank you for [4:59] [4:59] your time. [5:00] my name is tyler reh, I am a tax [5:03] [5:03] paying resident of harrow from [5:05] [5:05] the town of essex, starting at [5:07] [5:07] about the age of 15 I worked as [5:09] [5:09] an engineer. [5:10] I have about 20 years of experience. [5:13] I have about 20 years of experience. [5:13] my first degree is from the [5:16] university of waterloo in 2010, [5:18] a [5:18] a bachelors of applied science, [5:21] [5:21] systems design engineering. [5:22] then I also have my bachelors of [5:25] [5:25] education intermediate senior [5:26] math and physics from the [5:27] university of windsor in 2011. [5:31] my direct experience in [5:33] engineering includes a variety [5:35] of [5:35] of industries most notably I was [5:36] a programmer [5:36] a programmer for a majority of. [5:38] [laughter] [5:38] I can programme in more than a [5:40] [5:40] dozen computer languages and a [5:43] [5:43] test engineer with a research and [5:44] and development centre working [5:46] [5:46] on noise and vibration analysis [5:49] [5:49] with various automotive [5:50] components. [5:50] today I am here to address the [5:53] [5:53] blind spot across essex county [5:54] [5:54] and the rapidly expanding [5:57] industrial data centres space. [6:01] [6:01] since may 27th when I first [6:03] became aware of the approved iso [6:07] [6:07] 100-200-megawatt facility come [6:10] to [6:10] to the southwest transmission [6:11] region, I turned my attention to [6:15] [6:15] data centres hoping to have some [6:16] [6:16] action taken against them. [6:17] my biased or means, after careful [6:20] careful consideration of the negative [6:22] negative impacts to the region [6:24] [6:24] outweigh the perceived financial [6:27] [6:27] benefits. [6:27] when these facilities bring [6:30] investment, our local bylaws are [6:33] [6:33] not ready for them. [6:34] they are completely unprepared [6:36] for [6:36] for the unique infrastructure footprint. [6:38] for the unique infrastructure footprint. [6:38] right now we have a fragmented [6:41] [6:41] patchwork in our municipal laws [6:45] [6:45] that leaves communities exposed [6:46] [6:46] to noise, zoning loopholes, [6:49] ecological hazards and severe [6:51] energy grid strain. [6:52] we need a unified framework to [6:55] [6:55] leverage against every local [6:57] township and municipality before [6:59] these [6:59] these projects can even break [7:01] ground. [7:01] let's look at some of the issues [7:03] [7:03] we have currently around us. [7:05] in essex data centres can be [7:08] inappropriately lumped under the [7:10] [7:10] standard zoning bylaws as light [7:12] [7:12] industrial. [7:12] in amherstburg looking at the noise [7:16] noise bylaws to address [7:17] continuous low frequency hum, [7:20] massive cooling fans, with a [7:22] decibel metric. [7:23] preferably we will use something [7:26] like [7:26] like db z. [7:28] in lakeshore, we must improve [7:30] site control plan bylaws by adding [7:33] adding stipulation that can [7:34] calculate the massive structural [7:37] [7:37] footprint. [7:37] and that it causes extreme water [7:40] [7:40] displacement, and we need to [7:42] prevent massive structures from [7:45] [7:45] altering that agricultural [7:47] drainage basin. [7:49] in tecumseh we must focus on [7:52] property standards and nuisance [7:53] [7:53] bylaws to restrict local heat effects [7:56] effects from these server [7:59] exhausts, in lasalle we need [8:00] strict public utility and [8:01] development bylaws to offset the [8:04] [8:04] sudden burden on the local [8:06] municipality grids. [8:07] in kingsville we have to look to [8:10] leverage [8:10] leverage environmental [8:11] protection zoning overlay bylaws [8:13] [8:13] to protect such as ecozones from [8:16] these [8:16] these facilities footprints. [8:18] in leamington we must look at [8:21] specific land use restrictions [8:23] [8:23] for industrial land from taking [8:26] [8:26] over prime industrial land. [8:29] and finally I will throw in the [8:31] [8:31] city of windsor because they are [8:32] [8:32] probably in the worst state of [8:34] [8:34] anybody. [8:34] under theirs, data centres are [8:38] hidden [8:38] hidden under the zoning [8:39] definitions as mere business [8:42] offices, they can be both industrial as [8:44] industrial as well as commercial [8:45] [8:45] based on the way everything is [8:47] [8:47] written now. [8:49] zoning is only part of the [8:50] problems we face that are not [8:53] actually fully taken care of geq [8:55] [8:55] beyond zoning we face silent [8:57] chemical threats, data centres [8:58] [8:58] that rely on advanced cooling [9:01] which can have specialized [9:03] refrigerants and fire [9:04] suppressants. [9:04] these can be major sources of [9:09] trifluoro acetate, tfa, [9:13] precursors. [9:13] basically the refrigerants can [9:16] [9:16] break down into a forever [9:19] chemical. [9:19] when these cooling systems leak [9:23] this [9:23] this can get into our [9:24] wastewater, soil, et cetera. [9:27] there is really no way of [9:29] getting rid of them. [9:30] standard wastewater treatment [9:32] plants are completely incapable [9:35] of [9:35] of filtering out tfa. [9:36] it passes directly through a [9:39] treatment cycle accumulating primarily [9:41] primarily in our local water [9:43] systems, agricultural soil and [9:45] [9:45] guarantee our drinking water. [9:48] spills and leaks under [9:49] 10 kilograms do not have to be [9:51] [9:51] reported within ontario. [9:54] infrasound frequencies under [9:58] 20-hertz have been shown to cause [9:59] cause issues to plants, animals [10:02] [10:02] and humans. [10:02] currently all regulations for [10:04] sound are nuisance bylaws set [10:08] under dba, so this actually cuts [10:12] [10:12] out the lowest frequencies, and [10:15] [10:15] that's where a majority of the [10:17] [10:17] data center noise comes from. [10:19] they have actually been able to [10:21] [10:21] skirt bylaws and basically be a [10:24] [10:24] nuisance but still fall within [10:27] [10:27] the decibel limits set by the [10:31] township. >> [10:34] >> and then there is the whole [10:37] [10:37] math on energy. [10:38] in windsor essex there is [10:42] already an energy intensive [10:44] region, a few like leamington [10:47] they already have 1300 megawatts [10:51] of [10:51] of applications to sustain the [10:53] [10:53] growth in their greenhouse [10:55] industry. [10:55] that is before we even get one of [10:58] of these large 200 plus megawatt [11:00] [11:00] facilities. [11:00] food security is the big economic [11:05] economic backbone of our towns [11:07] [11:07] here, I personally like to keep [11:09] [11:09] it that way. [11:12] however data from independent [11:15] electricity systems operator [11:17] reveal our region capacity is [11:20] already short when it comes to [11:22] [11:22] transmission stations. [11:24] I found a piece of data that [11:26] says the independent board's [11:29] regional planning forecast shows [11:31] [11:31] by 2032 we will already be [11:33] 230 megawatts short of meeting [11:34] [11:34] the basic industrial and [11:36] development advance, we will [11:39] already be in a deficit based on what [11:40] what I have been able to figure [11:42] [11:42] out. [11:42] the main thing everybody is [11:45] worried about in here half the [11:46] [11:46] time is money I will go through [11:49] [11:49] why you won't see as much money [11:51] out of this [11:51] out of this as you think you [11:52] are. [11:52] using that 200 megawatts as a [11:56] basis, if we use 30-40000000 per [12:01] [12:01] megawatt as our basis, you are [12:03] likely to [12:03] likely to see the total cost of [12:05] [12:05] the facility between somewhere [12:09] six [12:09] six and $8 billion. [12:09] 60-70% of that is spent on the [12:13] [12:13] gpu, technology itself, which we [12:15] do [12:15] do not make here. [12:16] all probably coming from [12:18] overseas. [12:18] when you see who might actually [12:23] [12:23] become the primary person who is [12:25] [12:25] going to create this facility, [12:28] [12:28] it will more likely not be our [12:30] [12:30] construction companies. [12:31] they don't specialize in this [12:33] type of building, this type of [12:36] [12:36] infrastructure. [12:36] more likely to be alice and don [12:39] [12:39] or pcl construction, that takes [12:41] [12:41] a majority of the initial [12:43] contract outside the county. [12:44] you are only likely to see a [12:47] 75-80% of what is remaining of [12:51] [12:51] that 3.8 billion stay in the [12:51] counties less than a billion [12:53] dollars will actually stay here [12:55] in [12:55] in the county. [12:56] a majority will leave. [12:59] on top of that you're thinking [13:01] [13:01] it'll bring jobs. [13:02] to 100-megawatt facility is a [13:04] maximum of 80 jobs total. [13:07] should have somewhere between 5,010,000 [13:10] 5,010,000 square feet per [13:12] employee in order to house and [13:15] [13:15] create these jobs here. [13:17] if we look at amherstburg [13:20] specifically, our official plan, [13:23] 300 [13:23] 300 square feet as their target. [13:25] 300 square feet as their target. [13:25] it will not help us with job density [13:29] density whatsoever. [13:31] in summary we cannot manage a [13:34] 21st century technological boom [13:36] [13:36] without data and disjointed municipal [13:39] municipal bylaws, I urge county [13:41] [13:41] council to mandate a [13:43] synchronized region wide [13:45] regulatory framework that will [13:46] [13:46] protect our water, secure our [13:48] power grid and put in the safety [13:51] of [13:51] of essex county residents first. [13:52] of essex county residents first. [13:52] one particular note I want to [13:55] make to the document you are [13:56] seeing on the screen, this is a [14:00] [14:00] briefing I created a. [14:01] within it I believe it is under [14:04] [14:04] section six, part one. [14:06] you will see I estimate about 90k to [14:09] 90k to do this study. [14:10] I expect that having talked to [14:13] [14:13] the deputy cao that amherstburg [14:16] [14:16] they think it's about 200k in [14:18] order to I.c.e. Be. [14:20] what I would like to see is [14:22] overlap and how that money is spent so [14:25] spent so we can leverage [14:26] learnings here if any particular [14:30] [14:30] township wants to put that in. [14:31] I have considerably more [14:32] information on time and I'm [14:34] hoping to get some [14:35] questionnaire, thanks everybody [14:37] [14:37] for your time. >> [14:38] >> thank you tyler, walden. [14:40] questions council members? [14:43] deputy warden? >> [14:45] >> through you warden, thank you [14:47] [14:47] for coming and raising this [14:49] issue. [14:49] until maybe a month ago this [14:52] wasn't on the radar. [14:53] the fact that you are bringing [14:56] [14:56] education to us, very important [15:00] [15:00] and thank you to all the residents [15:01] residents that came out for this [15:03] [15:03] issue. [15:03] my question is, based on some of the [15:07] the news that has been shared, [15:08] [15:08] you see places in michigan and [15:10] [15:10] others that have these in the [15:12] noise itself is just [15:15] excruciating. [15:15] unbelievable something like that [15:18] [15:18] would exist in this area, [15:22] thinking of windsor essex. [15:24] my question is do you feel this [15:26] [15:26] is a public hazard, public [15:29] nuisance? [15:29] if so it would be worthwhile to also [15:31] also do your presentation at the [15:34] [15:34] windsor windsor essex county [15:37] health unit because there's a [15:38] lot of issues you raised that [15:41] also addresses because they are [15:42] [15:42] responsible for public health. [15:46] [15:46] >> through you warden and, [15:49] specifically to your question on [15:54] [15:54] -- let me rephrase this -- do [15:58] you mind repeating the end of [16:00] the question? [16:01] >> would the regular person [16:04] yourself included feel that this [16:06] [16:06] data is a public nuisance and [16:09] public hazard? [16:10] and if so, would it be [16:12] worthwhile to engage the health [16:15] [16:15] unit based on the motions this [16:18] [16:18] evening, there is a report talking [16:20] talking about maybe we should do [16:21] [16:21] a task force. [16:23] end of the day I support having [16:27] that [16:27] that town deal with it, we are [16:28] [16:28] all on the same page if it were [16:29] [16:29] to come to the lower [16:31] municipalities. [16:31] overall with the health unit [16:36] being an opportunity for them to [16:39] [16:39] be aware of this as well. >> [16:41] >> through you warden yes, we [16:43] should have lots of different [16:44] people involved. [16:46] it would be largely legal putting [16:47] putting in some of the bylaws [16:49] around this, specifically the [16:51] way I think can be -- we can very [16:54] very specifically put in bylaws [16:56] [16:56] against them. [16:57] we have sound bylaws that our [16:59] governed slightly by ontario [17:03] laws, can't step on those too [17:05] much. [17:05] but once you go past it being [17:10] sound and related to what you [17:12] hear and you go down to the [17:14] infrasound that would change it [17:16] and [17:16] and change the laws sooner [17:17] specifically tripping over those [17:19] [17:19] ontario laws. [17:21] and I have several peer-reviewed [17:24] [17:24] studies that show it causes [17:26] issues to both humans, not being [17:28] [17:28] able to sleep, cardiovascular [17:30] related stuff, animals with [17:33] stillbirths and stress and [17:35] plants have issues with seating [17:37] [17:37] because of the 10-hertz [17:39] frequency mimics bees and has [17:41] some issues related to [17:42] pollination. [17:42] yes, it does affect both humans, [17:46] [17:46] animals and plants. [17:48] tying that together to show that [17:50] [17:50] we have both residential and [17:53] agriculture having setbacks [17:55] related to this, that would [17:56] provide us our best chance to [17:57] keep it away from anything that [18:00] would [18:00] would cause an issue. [18:02] additionally the size of the sound [18:04] sound is going to require like three [18:06] three kilometres of setback in [18:09] every direction [18:09] every direction to get rid of [18:10] the sound 100%, and to actually [18:14] [18:14] block all of this stuff. [18:15] you are looking at 6000 plus [18:17] acres of farmland that would have [18:19] have to be converted over to do [18:21] [18:21] that. [18:21] it is highly concerning to me [18:24] specifically for that reason, more [18:26] more specifically in that [18:28] infrared where we just cannot [18:29] hear it. [18:30] it's one of those things that you [18:31] you can feel. [18:32] like when you are in your car [18:33] and put the windows down, that's [18:37] [18:37] 15-hertz. [18:37] you're not really hearing that [18:40] [18:40] you're feeling that. [18:42] that's the type of thing that [18:43] would come off of these things, [18:45] are [18:45] are extremely hard to mitigate, [18:47] [18:47] some of these sound waves are [18:49] metres and metres long so you [18:50] can't even put a 30-foot wall, [18:53] it [18:53] it will go up and over. [18:54] stuff like that is what deeply [18:57] [18:57] concerns me. >> [18:59] >> very good, thank you. [19:01] >> councillor prue? [19:05] >> couple questions attributed [19:09] [19:09] approximately $200,000 to our [19:14] deputy cao, miss osborne. [19:16] did you ask where she got this? [19:20] [19:20] >> through you warden, she said [19:22] [19:22] it in county council about a [19:24] month ago, when I was there when [19:26] [19:26] you guys voted to put this [19:29] motion in. [19:30] I did not get any more [19:32] specifics, that is the number. [19:34] >> [19:34] >> that was in the county [19:37] council. >> [19:37] >> in amherstburg council kak. [19:40] I may have misspoken. >> [19:42] >> okay. [19:42] second question, you also named [19:47] [19:47] about a month ago, you found there [19:50] there was a facility coming to [19:52] [19:52] southwestern ontario. [19:54] we found out later on it was [19:56] coming to niagara falls. [19:58] where in southwestern ontario did you [20:00] did you find that this was [20:01] coming to? [20:03] >> oliver says on the website it [20:05] [20:05] says it's the southwest [20:06] transmission region, whatever [20:08] that means for them which I [20:10] believe can include sarnia and [20:12] [20:12] all those types of things. [20:14] I don't think niagara falls, it [20:17] would [20:17] would be something else. [20:18] they have different ones on [20:19] their website. [20:20] that one specifically on a third [20:22] [20:22] party website says essex county [20:25] [20:25] specifically, but that is [20:28] unsubstantiated third party [20:30] evidence, probably should not take [20:31] take that as reality yet. >> [20:34] >> I don't think anybody at this [20:37] [20:37] table wants anything coming to [20:38] [20:38] essex county. >> [20:40] >> exactly. [20:40] the southwest transmission [20:44] region. >> [20:47] >> only one city has -- my third [20:50] [20:50] question, only one city has [20:53] taken this on so far and that is [20:55] [20:55] hamilton. [20:55] and I understand the opponent there [20:59] there was going to take hamilton [21:00] [21:00] to court. [21:01] do you have any knowledge what [21:03] [21:03] is happening with that? [21:04] >> yes, I do, through you [21:06] warden, hamilton itself voted down [21:09] down the icb notice at at 10-6 [21:13] [21:13] ratio. [21:13] the reason being they did not [21:16] want to spend the money and make sure [21:17] sure that our economic [21:19] investment was in the area. [21:21] mississauga was the first on ontario [21:23] ontario to put in an icb. [21:25] there are places that are going [21:27] [21:27] to try this. >> [21:30] >> that was a week ago mississauga [21:32] mississauga put that in. >> [21:34] >> I just saw that. [21:35] my question is, the proponent said [21:39] said that he was seriously [21:42] considering appealing this. [21:44] do you know whether the appeal [21:45] [21:45] was launched by the proponent? [21:47] [21:47] >> I do not. >> those [21:49] >> those are my questions [21:50] thank you. >> [21:51] >> thank you councillor, [21:52] councillor rogers? >> [21:54] >> thank you madam warden, [21:56] through you. [21:57] did a lot of work on this I [21:58] appreciate it. [21:59] you seem very passionate and [22:01] have a lot of data, a lot of [22:02] work, I appreciate that. [22:05] question I know you talked about [22:06] [22:06] the interim control bylaws, I wonder [22:08] wonder if there's anywhere you [22:09] [22:09] have seen that have taken on these [22:11] these studies to kind of dig [22:12] into it, as well as the [22:15] regulatory framework you are [22:16] requesting today? [22:18] >> so I have actually been [22:20] creating a document, let the cat [22:23] out of [22:23] out of the bag, with the [22:24] majority of that information for [22:26] [22:26] you. [22:26] I did not submit it here because [22:28] I [22:28] I have more work to do on it, but [22:31] but there are some places that [22:32] I [22:32] have tried some things yes, [22:35] have tried some things yes, [22:35] have tried some things yes, [22:35] [22:35] specifically icb was done this [22:37] [22:37] week, it was [22:38] week, it was [22:38] week, it was [22:38] [22:38] [22:38] [22:38] voted for in [22:39] mississauga. [22:39] they would be the ones to ask for [22:42] for exactly what they are doing [22:44] down [22:44] down that path, ultimately what [22:46] [22:46] the idea is you would study it [22:47] [22:47] to inform whatever your bylaws [22:49] [22:49] are going to be. [22:50] the way I would like to see it [22:52] [22:52] studied is under the guise of [22:55] infrasound tying in the health [22:59] [22:59] problems with humans and animals [23:01] [23:01] and plants, that we it ties in [23:04] [23:04] residential and agriculture, to [23:06] [23:06] put those setbacks in because that's [23:08] that's the main concern I have. [23:10] [23:10] there are other concerns like [23:14] fire and flood, not having [23:16] electricity. [23:16] water is an interesting one, [23:19] water quality, having enough of [23:21] [23:21] it. [23:21] there's lots of reasons that are [23:23] [23:23] concerning and we should look at [23:24] [23:24] each one of these specifically. [23:26] [23:26] what I would like to see is a lot [23:28] lot make it as hard as possible [23:30] [23:30] for these things to exist. [23:32] I don't want them in my [23:33] backyard. [23:33] I'm like 68% of all canadians, [23:37] [23:37] and americans, I don't want them [23:39] [23:39] in my backyard. [23:40] that should be the number 1 [23:41] statistic you guys take away [23:43] from this. [23:44] nobody wants them here. [23:46] >> further? [23:46] >> I definitely understand the [23:50] [23:50] concerns. [23:50] the question is, so there are [23:53] other places, canada, the [23:55] states, where they are doing [23:57] these studies and they are starting [23:58] starting to change some [23:59] regulations. [23:59] I think for us, we got our [24:02] notice of motion coming, which [24:04] we will [24:04] we will vote on the potential to [24:06] take [24:06] take those next steps so I think [24:07] [24:07] it is important to know where [24:09] else this is happening as a [24:11] viewpoint, just for obvious [24:13] conversation. >> [24:14] >> through you warden there's 12 other states [24:16] other states that are in the [24:17] process of putting a ban in or [24:19] [24:19] some kind of acting state level. [24:21] some kind of acting state level. [24:21] there have been a few, in [24:23] alberta I believe there's also [24:26] [24:26] attempted a interim control [24:29] bylaw, mississauga presently [24:31] here. [24:31] and there are ai data centres already [24:35] already existing in ontario and [24:38] [24:38] elsewhere in canada. [24:40] specifically, quebec themselves [24:42] [24:42] has stopped taking any more data [24:44] [24:44] centres because of the load on [24:48] their [24:48] their electricity. [24:49] and I believe bc has cut down to [24:53] 400 megawatts [24:53] 400 megawatts attributed to data [24:55] [24:55] centres in that province. >> [24:58] >> thank you very much. [24:59] >> thank you, councillor [25:02] deyong? >> [25:03] >> thank you warden, thank you [25:06] [25:06] tyler. [25:06] appreciate the work you have [25:07] done here today. [25:09] since I put up the motion we [25:11] will vote on later today, I have [25:13] [25:13] been getting some messages from [25:15] [25:15] residents. [25:15] some of them are informed like [25:17] [25:17] you are and doing a lot of [25:19] research, I have been forwarding [25:20] [25:20] them to administration in hopes [25:23] [25:23] this motion passes and this work [25:24] [25:24] will begin. [25:25] I want to encourage you to make [25:27] [25:27] sure the work you are doing is [25:29] [25:29] submitted, administration here [25:31] is [25:31] is keen and willing to do this [25:34] [25:34] work. [25:34] you have done a lot of work already. [25:36] you have done a lot of work already. [25:36] I hope you continue to put that [25:39] forward [25:39] forward and I just want to [25:40] thank you for digging deep into [25:42] [25:42] this and bringing up a lot of stuff [25:44] stuff that most people have not [25:45] [25:45] heard of and don't know, so [25:46] thank you for that. >> [25:48] >> anyone else? [25:50] councillor shepley? >> [25:52] >> thank you warden. [25:56] thank you for all the work you [25:58] [25:58] have done. [25:59] I noticed -- >> [26:03] >> can you pull your mic over? [26:05] [26:05] >> one of the things I wanted to [26:07] [26:07] comment on, when you talked [26:11] about the tfa, we currently have [26:15] [26:15] a reverse osmosis machine [26:17] calculating technology. [26:18] there is some hope for it so you [26:20] [26:20] are aware, and I just want to share [26:21] share that with you. >> [26:23] >> yeah, that takes about 85% of [26:25] [26:25] the data that is one of the few things that [26:27] things that I did not expect [26:28] actually that anybody would have [26:31] [26:31] that. [26:31] is that in everybody's townships [26:33] [26:33] that they have that? [26:34] that would be something to check [26:36] [26:36] on. [26:36] >> it's currently just the solid [26:41] [26:41] waste authority. [26:44] >> perfect, thank you. [26:47] >> councillor walstedt? >> [26:50] >> thank you madam warden, [26:53] thank you tyler for your [26:54] report. [26:54] a lot of good information, I [26:56] know you worked hard to get it [26:58] [26:58] all together. [27:00] I only see these as an outright [27:04] [27:04] ban on these in the strongest [27:06] terms, strongest legal way [27:08] possible. [27:08] so it could be appealed, [27:12] everything can always be [27:15] appealed, in any way when it [27:16] comes to the law. [27:17] but just based on infrastructure [27:20] [27:20] alone that it requires and water [27:23] and [27:23] and union water system for [27:24] example, already underway with [27:26] [27:26] expansions and everything else [27:27] [27:27] and other developments. [27:30] it takes millions of gallons of water [27:31] water for these things. [27:32] we talk every day a lot about [27:36] farmland being taken, losing 315 acres [27:38] 315 acres a day now in the [27:39] province of ontario, and this [27:41] takes up millions of square [27:44] feet. [27:44] and also like for -- as I said [27:48] [27:48] based on the infrastructure drain [27:49] drain as well as health issues [27:51] and [27:51] and everything else, the quality [27:53] of [27:53] of life issues people have that [27:55] would [27:55] would be living near these, I just [27:58] just think we need to, whether [27:59] we work [27:59] we work as a group, as a county [28:01] [28:01] to put everything in place to [28:05] let the industry know where we [28:06] [28:06] stand on it as well as in our [28:10] individual municipalities and [28:11] the bylaws we have to put in [28:14] place to do this. [28:15] I appreciate what you said about [28:18] [28:18] what is lacking in each [28:19] municipality, I'm pretty sure lakeshore [28:21] lakeshore will be taking a hard [28:22] [28:22] look at this to do whatever we [28:24] [28:24] can to prevent these [28:26] monstrosities from showing up in [28:30] lakeshore [28:30] lakeshore and the county as a [28:31] whole hopefully. [28:32] thanks. >> [28:33] >> councillor bailey? >> [28:34] >> thank you warden and through [28:36] [28:36] you, thank you tyler for being [28:38] [28:38] here this evening and the work [28:39] [28:39] you put into this, for sharing [28:41] [28:41] your expertise. [28:42] I think it's important to. [28:43] even more importantly started a [28:45] [28:45] conversation in our communities [28:46] that [28:46] that is very valuable and something [28:48] something we have to look at. [28:49] I support the collaborative [28:51] approach for sure. [28:53] I also appreciate you started the [28:55] the conversations because [28:56] sometimes when council began [28:57] thinking about zoning changes, [29:00] and [29:00] and putting things in, residents [29:03] [29:03] begin to understand or think [29:04] that we are changing it to allow [29:05] [29:05] a data center. [29:07] certainly of the emails, hundreds of [29:10] hundreds of emails we received, [29:12] [29:12] some were understanding that the [29:14] [29:14] processes we have to put [29:15] something in place. [29:17] and the absence of having [29:19] something in place could permit [29:20] something [29:20] something to occur. [29:21] I think residents gained a lot [29:24] of [29:24] of understanding through the [29:25] collaboration. [29:25] when you reviewed the proposed [29:29] [29:29] motion, did you feel that it [29:30] allows the planning tools that [29:32] we [29:32] we would need to protect ourselves? [29:34] we would need to protect ourselves? [29:34] the only thing that I felt in [29:36] the proposed, I have come up [29:37] with a few amendments because I [29:39] felt [29:39] felt like it was -- if we put [29:42] public resources towards [29:43] starting something that we [29:44] should study it from the [29:45] perspective of having a planning [29:47] [29:47] tools of which to oppose them. [29:49] [29:49] I felt like the proposed motion [29:51] [29:51] was a little bit lacking, I wonder [29:53] wonder how you felt about it? [29:54] >> through you warden, when I first [29:59] first did read it, I think I had [30:02] four [30:02] four specific points -- trying [30:04] to [30:04] to remember them all -- one was [30:07] [30:07] actually going back to one of the [30:09] the councillors saying that it [30:10] [30:10] requires a lot of water. [30:12] it's not necessarily true. [30:13] water is the cheapest one which [30:15] is [30:15] is why they do it. [30:17] we don't have to use water. [30:18] you can use natural refrigerants [30:21] [30:21] or synthetic refrigerants [30:22] instead, or air cooling. [30:24] does not have to contain liquid [30:25] [30:25] at all technically. [30:28] there is a large way in which [30:31] all of these things can happen. [30:32] to your point on creating the [30:36] laws, we are going to have to do [30:37] it [30:37] it similar to what you guys did [30:39] [30:39] in 2024 with greenhouses. [30:43] either you want to stop the [30:45] expansion of greenhouses, you [30:46] have to put large setbacks, do [30:48] [30:48] something similar. [30:49] that is the one way we can do [30:51] this. [30:51] we can go through all this work [30:53] [30:53] and do it all, in the province [30:55] can [30:55] can come in with an mgo or just [30:57] [30:57] say I am taking this land, this [30:59] [30:59] is where it will go. Nothing [31:01] nothing you can do about it. [31:04] remember that when you are [31:05] making all these decisions as well [31:07] well unfortunately, the province [31:08] is [31:08] is really the one that has the [31:10] most control [31:10] most control in this scenario. [31:12] [31:12] also we don't really have [31:13] control over electricity and [31:15] really much say on that at all. [31:17] [31:17] but we do have I believe bill [31:21] 40, where in ontario [31:22] specifically, they have to pay [31:24] [31:24] their own way for electricity. [31:26] [31:26] so it won't actually directly [31:28] affect our electrical bills. [31:30] here in ontario only. [31:33] thank you. >> [31:36] >> reminds me of many of the auditoriums [31:38] auditoriums that a lot of us put [31:40] [31:40] in for -- monitoring -- wind [31:45] turbines. [31:45] we effectively kept them from our [31:48] our municipality. [31:49] it can be done, the province [31:52] didn't make us do it. [31:53] to not do something just because [31:55] [31:55] you are afraid of being stopped [31:58] is [31:58] is not good enough, is it. [32:00] >> no it is not. [32:02] again I am here knowing this may [32:03] [32:03] not go anywhere. [32:04] I'm willing to put in the work [32:06] and [32:06] and try, I'm hoping everybody [32:08] will too. >> [32:09] >> good job. [32:10] anybody else? [32:12] okay then, we have a number of [32:14] [32:14] things to do here council. [32:16] again thank you tyler. [32:20] there have been quite a few questions [32:22] questions and thank you for that [32:23] [32:23] council. [32:23] there are other related matters [32:26] on [32:26] on the agenda this evening, I [32:27] thought it would be good to address [32:28] address them at this time so [32:30] that our audience if they wish [32:32] [32:32] to leave have the opportunity to [32:33] [32:33] do that, rather than sitting to [32:36] [32:36] listen to the rest of our [32:38] evening's business. There [32:40] there is a recommendation then [32:41] to [32:41] to amend the order of business [32:43] [32:43] this evening as follows, the [32:46] motion is, the order of the [32:48] agenda be amended to consider [32:51] correspondence item 10.1 .12, [32:54] the public petition ai data [32:57] centres, and new business item [33:00] [33:00] 14.2, the municipal framework [33:01] regarding the development of [33:03] data centres in essex county, and [33:06] and resolutions item ten .2.1, [33:10] [33:10] town of amherstburg regarding [33:12] data centres following [33:14] delegations from item 9.1. Looking [33:16] looking for a mover and a seconder [33:17] seconder so we can consider all [33:19] [33:19] these at this time? [33:20] councillor deyong seconded by councillor [33:24] councillor verbeke, comments or [33:26] [33:26] questions in that regard? [33:27] all in favour by show of hands? [33:30] [33:30] opposed? [33:30] that is carried, thank you. [33:33] so first we have the public [33:35] petition for the ai data center, [33:37] [33:37] that was submitted by tyler reh [33:39] [33:39] this evening and is now provided [33:41] [33:41] for council as information. [33:44] so again there's a [33:46] recommendation to formally [33:47] receive the petitions and the [33:49] recommendation is the public [33:51] petition regarding ai data [33:53] centres presented by tyler reh [33:55] be [33:55] be received as information. Looking [33:57] looking for a mover and [33:58] seconder? [33:58] deputy warden and councillor [34:01] shapley? [34:01] any discussion on the motion? [34:04] I will ask you to vote [34:06] electronically please. [34:09] that is carried, thank you. [34:31] next up we have the municipal framework [34:34] framework regarding the [34:35] development of data centres, and [34:38] [34:38] for that we will turn to councillor [34:40] councillor deyong to bring [34:40] forward her notice of motion, would you [34:43] would you like to read it at [34:44] this time? [34:45] >> I would not necessarily like [34:47] to [34:47] to read it because it's [34:48] something required? [34:49] it's lengthy, I mean I can but. [34:52] >> [34:52] >> madam clerk? [34:54] should it be out there? [34:56] >> it is displayed on the screen [34:58] [34:58] now, it is in all the agenda [35:02] packages. If [35:02] if there is somebody that that [35:04] would [35:04] would like to read it out loud [35:08] , [35:08] you can skip over the preambles [35:10] [35:10] and simply read the motion [35:13] itself. [35:13] >> can you tell me where you [35:21] want me to start reading? [35:23] like the motion itself -- >> [35:26] >> now therefore to be [35:27] reasonable. >> [35:29] >> okay thank you. [35:30] now therefore be it resolved the [35:32] county [35:32] county administration be [35:32] directed to in consultation and [35:34] [35:34] cooperation with the [35:35] administration of the county's [35:36] [35:36] constituent local municipalities [35:38] [35:38] undertake a review and study of the [35:40] the county's land use planning [35:41] [35:41] policy in relation to artificial [35:43] [35:43] intelligence data centres, [35:45] applicable to all zones where that [35:46] that use is permitted in [35:47] the county of essex including [35:48] but not limited to official [35:49] plans and zoning bylaws. [35:52] and let it be that the county [35:53] administration be directed to [35:54] report back to county council [35:55] with an initial report with [35:57] respect to the following in [35:58] advance of completing a study related [35:59] related to ai data centres. [36:02] number 1, the scope of work of any [36:04] any started to be undertaken [36:05] including financial and staffing [36:07] [36:07] resources and any need for external [36:09] external consultation, number 2 [36:10] the [36:10] the proposed plan to consult [36:11] with indigenous communities, [36:13] three, the proposed public [36:14] engagement strategy, four, [36:16] information on the current [36:17] regulatory environment for ai [36:19] data centres at the federal [36:20] provincial and municipal levels [36:21] of [36:21] of government as well as any [36:23] updates following recent [36:23] legislative changes, five, [36:25] information from the province's [36:27] independent [36:27] independent electricity system [36:28] [36:28] operator and electrical utility [36:30] service [36:30] service providers that operate [36:31] [36:31] within the county of essex on [36:33] the potential cost and other [36:34] impacts to electrical [36:35] infrastructure and c, that upon [36:38] [36:38] receipt of the initial report and [36:40] and recommendations council consider whether [36:41] consider whether a study is required [36:42] required to be completed by third party [36:43] third party consultant, whether [36:44] [36:44] additional planning tools are necessary [36:46] necessary prior to third party [36:47] [36:47] study being conducted, based on the [36:49] the contents of the initial [36:50] report and options provided by [36:52] [36:52] administration, and d, that a [36:54] copy of this motion be shared with the [36:55] with the federation of canadian [36:57] [36:57] municipalities and the [36:58] association of municipalities of [36:59] [36:59] ontario to formally request [37:01] their support to work with the [37:02] [37:02] federal and provincial [37:03] governments and municipalities [37:04] [37:04] to establish a coordinated [37:06] regulatory framework that takes [37:07] [37:07] into account environmental, [37:09] human and community health [37:11] safeguards and clearly outlines [37:13] public [37:13] public disclosure requirements [37:14] [37:14] as it relates to ai industry [37:15] growth and development. [37:18] >> looking for a seconder [37:21] councillor rogers. [37:22] any discussion on the motion? [37:24] councillor bailey? [37:27] >> sorry did you want to speak [37:31] [37:31] to your motion first? [37:32] >> I'm sorry, please go ahead. [37:35] [37:35] >> thank you. [37:36] I just wanted to make note that [37:39] I [37:39] I recognize this as a first step [37:40] that [37:40] that we know each municipality [37:41] is going to [37:42] is going to have to implement [37:42] its own policies, and the [37:46] initial piece of I guess motion [37:49] [37:49] that I put forward to [37:51] administration for some [37:53] assistance did have heavier [37:54] language, it did include [37:56] specifically moratorium, and I [38:01] [38:01] understand at the county level it [38:02] it may not be the appropriate [38:03] step. [38:03] local municipality has pending [38:06] [38:06] application probably a [38:07] moratorium is in order, certainly what I [38:09] certainly what I would do at [38:10] kingsville's counsel table if it [38:12] [38:12] came forward. [38:13] in addition, the term control [38:16] bylaw requires a study period [38:17] course of doing a study is in essence [38:19] essence kind of the same thing, [38:21] [38:21] especially when we don't have a [38:23] pending [38:23] pending application. [38:25] first step, figuring out what it [38:29] is [38:29] is that we are trying to [38:32] control. There [38:32] there is so many different [38:34] layers to it. [38:36] and I think that we are in a [38:40] fortunate position that even [38:41] though there hasn't been a lot [38:42] of [38:42] of regulation at the provincial [38:44] [38:44] and federal level, it is at the [38:45] [38:45] end of the day the [38:46] municipalities that are going to [38:47] [38:47] have to live with whatever the [38:48] [38:48] conditions and nuisances and [38:50] enforcement and so on that is a [38:52] [38:52] result of this new thing coming [38:54] [38:54] to our communities, and I will [38:56] tell you [38:57] tell you when the regulation [38:57] comes from the top down, usually [38:59] [38:59] we have no say and we have no choice [39:01] choice but to deal and we are in [39:04] [39:04] a reactive situation and I think [39:06] [39:06] this motion allows us to get [39:09] ahead of this and be proactive, [39:12] put [39:12] put it in step before it is enforced [39:13] enforced upon us. [39:14] I hope -- -- I'm certainly open [39:19] to [39:19] to amendments if it gets to our [39:20] [39:20] end goal. [39:21] I also have a motion out of my [39:23] [39:23] local council about the hydro [39:26] increases here I asked for word [39:31] [39:31] what their data is based on, we [39:34] [39:34] are not preparing for any huge [39:36] growth [39:36] growth in any one industry, the [39:38] [39:38] I.c.e. May want to share why it [39:39] [39:39] is they have seen this giant [39:43] growth, at the local and county [39:47] [39:47] level. [39:47] specifically this motion says we [39:49] [39:49] want to look at where the use is [39:52] [39:52] permitted, then that seems [39:53] different depending on where you [39:55] live. [39:55] live. [39:55] I think amherstburg has it as a [39:59] [39:59] list of views. [40:00] kingsville doesn't, then [40:02] hamilton won't under light [40:05] industrial. [40:05] when you cannot clearly define things [40:07] things you don't necessarily know [40:08] know where they will put them [40:09] and I think that's part of what [40:10] [40:10] this work has to do, help define [40:12] [40:12] all the parameters that we can [40:15] put in controls [40:15] put in controls that are [40:16] defendable if we are challenged [40:19] . [40:19] that's at. [40:20] I may have more comments at the [40:22] [40:22] end, thank you so much. [40:24] >> great, put up your hand and we [40:25] we will go from there, how is [40:27] that? [40:27] start with you councillor bailey [40:31]  bailey. [40:31]  bailey. [40:31] >> recognize that we have been [40:32] [40:32] down this path with battery storage [40:34] storage cut green housing, wind [40:36] [40:36] turbine, hydro lines and all [40:38] those things, especially in [40:40] particular the municipalities [40:41] that have a large agricultural [40:44] [40:44] footprint. [40:44] I am wondering if you would [40:48] consider friendly amendment, [40:51] that just adds on that nothing [40:53] [40:53] in this resolution shall be [40:55] interpreted as encouraging or [40:56] facilitating the development of [40:58] [40:58] ai data centres of essex county [41:02] [41:02] recognizing you did hide some bolder [41:05] bolder language that was styled [41:06] [41:06] by, I recognize we do have to [41:08] study it. [41:09] I am concerned, I have several [41:11] [41:11] amendments in a summarized down [41:13] to [41:13] to this one because I still [41:15] remain concerned that our focus [41:16] [41:16] should really be about making sure [41:18] sure that the resolution we have [41:20] [41:20] tonight isn't interpreted in that way [41:21] that way and I think having that [41:22] [41:22] language would be helpful. [41:24] friendly amendment for your [41:25] consideration. >> [41:26] >> happy to accept the friendly [41:30] [41:30] amendment. [41:30] >> can you repeat what you [41:36] proposed? [41:36] >> I can, thank you. [41:40] part e, confirming that nothing [41:42] [41:42] in this resolution shall be [41:46] interpreted as endorsing, [41:50] encouraging, or facilitating the [41:56] [41:56] development of ai data centres [42:02] [42:02] within essex county. [42:03] thank you to the mover. [42:06] >> it'll be a moment until we get [42:27] get it on the screen. [42:30] councillor deyong and councillor [43:08] [43:08] bailey can you review the [43:09] language in the revised motion [43:13] ? [43:13] there is a typo, ignore that for [43:16] [43:16] now. [43:16] >> some grammar and spelling [43:29] inside, it is fine by me. [43:33] fine by the secondary as [43:38] well? [43:38] okay. I [43:38] I got a number of people that still [43:41] still would like to speak to the [43:43] [43:43] motion, and I will come to you [43:45] [43:45] deputy warden next. >> [43:46] >> thank you I would like to [43:47] also propose a friendly [43:49] amendment, if we can add a -- I [43:51] know [43:51] know talks about consulting with [43:53] [43:53] indigenous. [43:53] if we can ask for input or [43:57] consult with the windsor [43:58] essex county health unit, along [44:02] with [44:02] with the new conservation board [44:04] [44:04] authority board that is in our [44:07] [44:07] area. [44:07] so if there's any input or [44:10] consultation from that board that would [44:12] that would be part of the motion [44:14] [44:14] as well. [44:16] >> councillor deyong? [44:19] >> I'm looking for some clarity, [44:21] [44:21] is that part of the study rather [44:24] [44:24] than this prereport? [44:27] do we want to consult with them [44:30] for [44:30] for the report that will come to [44:32] do [44:32] do the study, or consult with them [44:33] them as part of the study? [44:36] >> through you warden, for [44:38] clarification from the mover, I [44:41] [44:41] believe the intent of this motion [44:42] motion as it is written is to engage [44:45] engage administration at the [44:46] county to create a report [44:48] advising council on what the [44:50] components of said study might [44:52] [44:52] be, and the logistics of [44:53] completing said study. [44:55] at that instance, all of those [44:58] [44:58] types of things can be included [45:00] [45:00] in that report to council which [45:01] [45:01] will be forthcoming at an [45:03] upcoming meeting. [45:05] I don't think it's necessary to [45:06] [45:06] include those parameters into [45:09] this motion as it is now. [45:11] if it's coming back to council [45:13] [45:13] for that consideration. >> [45:14] >> that is what I thought, I don't want [45:16] don't want to get into defining [45:17] [45:17] what every single thing in the [45:18] [45:18] study is going to be. [45:19] I think we will have that [45:21] discussion when the report [45:22] comes, did you want to do this [45:24] [45:24] or this to make sure the study [45:26] [45:26] parameters are inclusive of all [45:28] of [45:28] of that? >> [45:29] >> that's fine, thank you for the [45:31] the clarification that we will [45:32] come back [45:32] come back and make sure if we need [45:34] need to include at that point. [45:35] I am fine with the way it is [45:37] written now. [45:37] thank you. [45:39] >> councillor gibb next? >> [45:41] >> thank you madam warden. [45:43] I don't have any amendments to [45:45] [45:45] offer, this would be quicker. [45:47] I just wanted to thank councillor [45:50] councillor deyong for bringing [45:52] [45:52] this forward. [45:53] it is obvious from the emails [45:55] and the messages that we [45:58] received that this is an [45:59] important concern for residents [46:01] of [46:01] of essex county. [46:02] and I think it is very [46:03] appropriate for us to deal with [46:05] [46:05] this at the county level. [46:07] from my back porch, I can see [46:09] the lights from the greenhouses [46:12] [46:12] in leamington. [46:13] the electricity that comes to [46:16] amherstburg flows through [46:18] lasalle. [46:18] using industrial land for [46:20] something that won't bring us [46:21] good paying jobs affects every [46:23] [46:23] single resident of this county. [46:25] [46:25] I am glad that the county -- I [46:28] [46:28] am hopeful that county council [46:30] [46:30] will move forward with this. [46:32] and I think it is important that [46:33] [46:33] we are prepared. [46:35] I was just reading, the federal [46:39] [46:39] government is looking to invest [46:44] $925 million [46:44] $925 million in sovereign ai [46:45] compute strategy. [46:47] so this is coming, this is coming [46:49] coming from other levels of [46:51] government, I think it is important [46:52] important we are prepared as possible [46:54] possible to make sure that if we [46:57] [46:57] cannot ban this calculus we are [46:58] [46:58] prepared to fight back. [47:00] I will be supporting this. [47:03] I think it was very well [47:05] presented. [47:05] I want to thank the presenter [47:07] for having a concise and very well thought out [47:11] well thought out presentation. [47:12] [47:12] this is appropriately dealt with [47:14] at [47:14] at the county, rather than [47:16] having seven individual [47:17] municipalities try and create seven [47:21] seven different programmes, we [47:22] [47:22] should do the heavy lifting [47:23] here. [47:23] thank you. >> [47:25] >> thank you. [47:26] next up, councillor prue? [47:30] >> thank you so much, what has [47:33] [47:33] been said about loading this up [47:36] too much [47:36] too much but I do want to remind [47:38] [47:38] council and staff, when you are [47:40] sitting [47:40] sitting down to determine what [47:42] [47:42] you are going to study, this is [47:45] a [47:45] a multi-jurisdictional issue. [47:47] it goes far beyond the county it [47:49] [47:49] goes far beyond the local [47:51] municipalities. [47:51] in fact most of the stuff, water [47:55] is [47:55] is both a federal and provincial [47:58] [47:58] jurisdiction. [47:58] electricity is 100% provincial [48:02] [48:02] jurisdiction. [48:02] they are the ones that determine [48:05] the [48:05] the I.c.e. And provincial [48:07] government, what electricity [48:09] services come into -- iso -- as [48:15] pitiful [48:15] pitiful as they sometimes may [48:17] be. [48:17] the farmland issue, people [48:18] talked about not using [48:20] farmland. [48:20] I thought we were already forbidden [48:23] forbidden pretty much from using [48:27] [48:27] farmland. [48:27] I know if you go to the [48:28] committee of adjustment and each [48:30] one of the [48:30] one of the municipalities, [48:31] somebody wants to use farmland [48:33] for [48:33] for something else, hardly ever [48:36] [48:36] happens. [48:36] because restrictions are so [48:39] severe. [48:39] I do want to remind the staff when [48:44] when they are preparing this that this [48:46] that this is a worldwide [48:47] phenomenon. [48:47] it is not just coming to [48:50] essex county. [48:51] it is not just coming to ontario [48:54] [48:54] or to canada. [48:56] the two leading countries in the [48:58] world [48:58] world that are pushing this are [49:00] [49:00] the united states and china, [49:03] both of whom are way, way, way [49:07] [49:07] along the road, looking I do not [49:10] [49:10] know what for other than world [49:12] dominance. [49:12] dominance. [49:12] that is where they are heading. [49:15] [49:15] and canada will have to make [49:16] that choice, whether or not we [49:18] [49:18] want to go down this route and [49:20] [49:20] if they do, it will be very difficult. [49:23] if they do, it will be very difficult. [49:23] I want to be blunt, if canada [49:25] decides they want to go down [49:27] this route, or if ontario decides they [49:29] decides they want to go down [49:30] this route, they can, as the [49:36] presenter saidthe jurisdiction [49:40] is, there. [49:41] so I want to make sure when staff [49:43] staff prepares this, that they [49:45] look at [49:45] look at multi-jurisdictional [49:47] arguments and where the county [49:50] fits in with all of this. [49:53] I know we have a role, but I [49:55] want to make sure it is clear [49:57] what our role is, vis a vis other [49:59] other levels of government. [50:02] >> councillor bondy next. >> [50:06] >> thank you warden mcdonald. [50:07] of course I will be supporting [50:08] [50:08] the motion and I want to thank [50:09] [50:09] all of the members of the public [50:11] [50:11] for being engaged and sending us [50:12] a [50:12] a lot of emails. [50:14] I'm wondering if we can ask our [50:16] [50:16] manager if planning a question [50:17] -- I. Would like to know her [50:18] thoughts on the motion and if [50:19] there is anything else we should [50:20] [50:20] put into it. [50:22] and I'm also wondering, my [50:24] understanding is zoning [50:25] governance a lot where data [50:26] centres go. [50:28] so I'm worried that while this [50:30] [50:30] study is taking place, that at [50:32] the local level, we could be [50:34] exposed due to lack of zoning. [50:36] [50:36] that prohibits data centres. [50:39] so I'm wondering if there is [50:41] something that should all of the [50:42] [50:42] locals start doing in terms of [50:45] controlled bylaws while this study [50:47] study is taking place. [50:48] that is my question, I think our [50:50] manager will [50:50] manager will be the one to [50:51] answer it. >> I [50:52] >> I do have her coming later [50:53] on, like right after when we do the [50:55] the town of amherstburg. That [50:56] that is the time to do it. [50:57] if we can just concentrate on this [50:59] this motion if you don't mind. [51:01] [51:01] good point, definitely that was [51:04] [51:04] my objective. >> [51:05] >> thank you. >> [51:06] >> thank you. [51:06] councillor shepley? [51:09] >> thank you madam warden. [51:13] deputy mayor de jong, thank you [51:16] for [51:16] for bringing that forward, it [51:17] was well written. [51:18] I appreciate the -- conversation [51:20] [51:20] so I hope you can educate me as [51:24] well [51:24] well as the information [51:26] provided. [51:26] .. Just looking into them a little [51:29] bit that I did, I found one -- [51:31] [51:31] it'll probably not do the town [51:34] [51:34] justice, it's in michigan. [51:36] there's a centre there that just [51:39] screams [51:39] screams -- streams 24 hours a [51:41] day seven days a week. [51:43] I found one after another like [51:45] [51:45] that. [51:45] it really changed how I viewed [51:47] [51:47] this topic altogether. [51:49] so I will be supporting, I want [51:52] to [51:52] to know what tools we already [51:53] have. [51:53] what gaps there may be. [51:58] and I would rather spend a [52:00] little more time getting this [52:01] right than rushing into it and [52:02] [52:02] getting it wrong. [52:03] so I think this is the right way [52:05] to [52:05] to go, thank you for that. [52:08] >> thank you. [52:09] councillor? [52:09] >> thank you warden. [52:13] I think the last few speakers actually [52:15] actually had all of my questions. [52:17] actually had all of my questions. [52:17] but I will run through it really [52:18] quickly that maybe someone can [52:19] take notes and follow up [52:21] afterwards. [52:21] I appreciate the notice of [52:24] motion. I [52:24] I think it's something we [52:26] absolutely need to discuss, I [52:27] think it is absolutely a hot topic [52:28] topic across north america. [52:30] and it wouldn't be right if we [52:32] didn't do [52:32] didn't do our due diligence. [52:33] so my question for [52:34] administration, if they want to [52:36] record [52:36] record it I won't ask it later, [52:39] [52:39] it really is around our authority. [52:41] it really is around our authority. [52:41] can administration clarify today [52:43] [52:43] what authority essex county [52:44] actually has regarding ai data [52:46] [52:46] centres? [52:46] specifically what decisions fall [52:48] within the county jurisdiction, [52:50] what [52:50] what responsibilities belong to [52:52] local [52:52] local municipalities and what [52:53] authority rests with the [52:54] province. [52:54] as our delegate did mention, each [52:58] each municipality does have [52:59] different bylaws and official plants. [53:01] different bylaws and official plants. [53:01] so can a blanket planning bylaw [53:03] even be applied? [53:05] if the county's role is limited, [53:07] then I assume the initial report [53:09] will [53:09] will focus on jurisdiction and [53:11] [53:11] legal authority before council [53:12] determines whether broader [53:13] studies should proceed. I [53:15] I think that is kind of where -- [53:16] I'm [53:16] I'm trying to understand tonight [53:19] [53:19] what authority we actually have [53:21] in this room. [53:22] and if we don't have that [53:24] authority, then it is on each of us [53:25] us to take it back to our [53:27] locals. [53:27] I know we still have our [53:29] meetings in communication with [53:31] [53:31] our lower tier and upper, but I [53:33] really just want to understand [53:36] what [53:36] what we can actually do here and [53:37] I don't [53:37] I don't want to waste time and [53:39] money [53:39] money doing a study, only to [53:40] find out that we can't -- all of the [53:44] the items they told us to put in [53:45] [53:45] place, we can't actually do. [53:47] that is my only fear, wasting [53:49] time and money when maybe our [53:51] focus should be lower. That [53:52] that is my question when that [53:55] comes forward. [53:56] >> through you warden, I will [53:57] speak briefly to it. [53:59] our manager of planning and I [54:00] have had conversations already [54:02] in [54:02] in anticipation of the [54:03] discussion tonight. [54:04] and trying to prepare something [54:05] for the [54:05] for the next meeting of council. [54:08] [54:08] and so to your point exactly, the [54:10] the preamble of that report will [54:11] [54:11] talk about jurisdictional lanes [54:14] and [54:14] and who has what, in order to [54:16] get to a clear scope of work for [54:18] a [54:18] a potential study. [54:19] we have already thought of that [54:21] [54:21] and stay tuned. [54:24] >> councillor rogers? [54:26] >> thank you madam warden. [54:28] may be a small note through you, [54:30] [54:30] since this got a notice of [54:31] motion out there, there have [54:34] been a few calls from a few different [54:35] different industries just over [54:36] the concern over data centres. [54:39] [54:39] again, this is about the large [54:41] [54:41] ai data centres where I've had [54:43] some [54:43] some industries reach out, [54:45] again, putting information out [54:46] there [54:46] there with people not really [54:47] understanding what this is [54:49] about. [54:49] so I have an industry that has [54:50] [54:50] data centres on their footprint [54:52] [54:52] and industrial parks, may be [54:54] some are a room, maybe some are [54:56] the size of this room. [54:57] and they have a concern about [54:59] regulations moving forward. [55:00] so again, as we move forward and [55:03] go down this road, I think clear [55:05] communication as far as what we [55:06] [55:06] are actually looking to target [55:07] [55:07] and then clearing maybe some of that [55:10] that misinformation out there [55:11] with our preexisting industries [55:13] [55:13] that exist, that have this type [55:16] of [55:16] of technology within their [55:17] footprints. That [55:17] that they are not on the radar, [55:20] as [55:20] as long as they are not that big. [55:22] as long as they are not that big. [55:22] I think that is just an important [55:23] important piece as we move [55:25] forward -- as we move forward, [55:27] [55:27] thank you. [55:28] >> good point. [55:30] anyone else? [55:33] councillor? [55:33] >> thank you madam warden and [55:35] through you. [55:37] one of the important things [55:38] about living where we live -- [55:40] and I will give some shout outs [55:41] to some of the counties, your [55:43] wineries. We [55:43] we have a long weekend and I [55:46] brought home a retired copper from sterling [55:47] from sterling heights and we [55:48] went to these wineries and got [55:49] [55:49] to talking about this because he [55:51] googled me to make fun of me. [55:52] this is what comes up when I [55:54] came up. [55:56] so this is sort of out to our [55:58] colleagues and administration. [56:00] [56:00] there is about 100 [56:02] municipalities around us in the [56:04] detroit area. [56:05] sterling heights is one of the [56:07] municipalities that has stopped [56:08] [56:08] data centres. [56:08] and sterling heights is one of these [56:10] these municipalities where we look at [56:11] look at the city of windsor, there's [56:13] there's lots of industrial [56:14] space, where there's lots of big [56:15] buildings that are unoccupied. [56:18] [56:18] and what happened in sterling heights [56:20] heights is like this. [56:21] they looked at the research from [56:23] [56:23] atlantic, and I would hope we research [56:25] research across the board. [56:26] not that the rules be the same, [56:29] but [56:29] but that the impact be the same. [56:30] [56:30] the 85-decibel generators, the [56:34] diesel [56:34] diesel generators to run 50 hours. [56:36] diesel generators to run 50 hours. [56:36] all of those types of things [56:37] that are not relevant [56:39] legislatively, the building is [56:41] the [56:41] the same, the heat is the same, [56:43] [56:43] the water is the same and what [56:46] these other municipalities did [56:49] [56:49] their research for, in the army [56:51] [56:51] as an army guy, we called it [56:54] r&d. If [56:54] if you can make a phone call to [56:56] [56:56] say sterling heights or some of [56:58] these other places that have [56:59] built the same thing, I'm hoping [57:00] they would share the packages. [57:02] [57:02] this package can be shared with [57:03] them as well, again, I would [57:06] give up youtube if we could keep [57:08] the [57:08] the water in the great lakes. [57:09] it is very simple for me. [57:11] there are certain things that I [57:13] want, there are certain things [57:14] I [57:14] want for my children. [57:15] very simple. [57:18] I don't need more gifs of cats. [57:21] if [57:21] if this is going to say that we [57:23] [57:23] can still go to the wineries in [57:25] our [57:25] our communities and still drink [57:26] [57:26] the wine and play in the water [57:29] and not have to worry about this [57:30] [57:30] stuff, let's get it done. But [57:32] but as my friend over here said, [57:33] [57:33] let's do it right, let's do it [57:35] in a manner that we represent our [57:37] our municipalities. [57:38] like I said, I'm just asking that we [57:40] that we reach out to the u.s. [57:41] municipalities in the greater [57:43] detroit area that have put [57:44] moratoriums on data centres, [57:48] while I understand that the [57:50] legislation will not be the [57:51] same, the economic and [57:54] environmental impact studies [57:55] would be identical, thank you [57:56] madam warden. >> [57:58] >> anyone else? [58:01] I'm just going to add a few [58:02] things if you don't mind. [58:03] I am 100% in support of this. [58:06] I think it is good to be [58:08] proactive, rather than reactive. [58:12] [58:12] that has always been my method [58:14] of [58:14] of operation. [58:14] but I do want to say something, [58:16] [58:16] and it came up when councillor [58:23] [58:23] prue mentioned the greatest data [58:25] countries [58:25] countries are china and the u.s. [58:26] [58:26] and that makes me think I don't [58:29] want to rely on data that is [58:32] controlled by the united states [58:36] , by [58:36] by the country of china. [58:39] I think we were realistically, [58:41] [58:41] at some point in time, somewhere [58:43] [58:43] in canada, have more than one of [58:45] these data centres. [58:46] I don't want them here, I can [58:48] tell you that. [58:50] but I think that realistically, [58:52] we [58:52] we have to realize that if we want [58:53] want to be independent from [58:55] those countries, that they don't [58:56] [58:56] have influence over our data and [59:00] our [59:00] our information at some point in [59:03] [59:03] time. [59:03] somewhere, somehow, in this [59:07] country, someone will have to [59:08] support a data center. [59:09] I am more afraid of that than I [59:13] am of the other things. [59:14] again, I don't want them here, [59:16] I [59:16] don't want them in the province [59:19] of [59:19] of ontario, unless it's really [59:19] far north where no people live. [59:22] [59:22] but I think that realistically, [59:23] we [59:23] we have to realize that if we want [59:25] want to be independent, [59:27] sovereignly independent, [59:30] somewhere, somehow, there will [59:32] [59:32] be. [59:32] and ai data center within the [59:35] borders of this country. [59:37] and we will probably, at some point in [59:39] point in time, want that [59:41] independence. [59:41] again, just putting that realistic [59:45] realistic angle on it. [59:46] I am in support of it, I don't [59:48] [59:48] want them in my municipality, I don't [59:50] don't want them in our region. [59:54] [59:54] but just a cautionary note that [59:56] [59:56] at some point in time, someone, [59:59] somewhere [59:59] somewhere will be dealing with [1:00:00] [1:00:00] this. [1:00:00] so -- gary, sorry. [1:00:05] councillor mcnamara, please go [1:00:07] [1:00:07] ahead. [1:00:07] >> thank you very much. [1:00:10] warden, you pretty much summed [1:00:13] up [1:00:13] up what I was going to say at [1:00:14] this stage. [1:00:16] I do support, obviously the [1:00:19] motion, it is a good point to be [1:00:24] [1:00:24] cautious and so to have some [1:00:26] uniformity in terms of all of the [1:00:29] the communities and so forth. [1:00:30] but in the same token, the [1:00:33] information, if we are prepared [1:00:35] [1:00:35] to make sure that anything that [1:00:38] goes [1:00:38] goes into the cloud and so forth [1:00:41] is [1:00:41] is supported by china or the [1:00:43] united states, then that is going [1:00:45] going to be an issue for us to [1:00:47] [1:00:47] deal with in the future. [1:00:50] I firmly believe that a lot of [1:00:52] the industry itself within it has [1:00:53] has not done a really good job [1:00:57] [1:00:57] in really putting proper [1:00:59] perspective into it. [1:01:02] and I do believe that there has [1:01:04] [1:01:04] to be safeguards in how we do things [1:01:10] things and to make sure that we [1:01:13] [1:01:13] protect our water and we [1:01:15] certainly protect our quality of [1:01:17] life, people that are going to [1:01:21] [1:01:21] be last to live in proximity to [1:01:23] [1:01:23] these areas and so forth. [1:01:25] I think it is a good thing to [1:01:27] take two steps back, slow down, [1:01:29] [1:01:29] get the information so that we [1:01:31] can make an informed decision including [1:01:36] including where and when and how [1:01:39] these data centres are to be [1:01:42] built or utilized, wherever. [1:01:46] I think it is a good point. [1:01:49] I want to commend the deputy mayor [1:01:53] mayor for bringing this motion [1:01:54] forward and so forth. [1:01:55] because we need to really be [1:01:59] assured of what is going to transpire [1:02:02] transpire is going to serve us in [1:02:04] in the right way. [1:02:05] thank you madam warden. >> [1:02:08] >> thank you councillor. [1:02:09] okay then, we won't have you read [1:02:11] read the motion again and with [1:02:13] [1:02:13] that, I will call the question [1:02:15] and ask you to vote [1:02:16] electronically please. [1:02:19] councillor mcnamara, by show of [1:02:28] of hands, all in favour? [1:02:30] thank you. [1:02:32] I will note your vote. [1:02:36] and that is carried unanimously, [1:02:38] [1:02:38] thank you very much. [1:02:41] [applause] [1:02:41] so next up, we have the town of [1:02:48] amherstburg, they sent a request [1:02:54] [1:02:54] regarding planning studies for [1:02:55] artificial intelligence data [1:02:58] centres. So [1:02:58] so would a member of amherstburg [1:03:01] [1:03:01] like to comment, looking to you, [1:03:04] councillor [1:03:04] councillor prue. >> [1:03:05] >> thank you so much. [1:03:07] this came up on the fly, if I [1:03:10] can put it that way, at our last [1:03:12] [1:03:12] council meeting. [1:03:15] the councillor who occasionally [1:03:18] [1:03:18] sits around this table, came up [1:03:20] [1:03:20] with two motions. [1:03:21] one was for us to do the study [1:03:23] [1:03:23] ourselves and the other motion [1:03:25] [1:03:25] was to put it to the county council [1:03:28] council because she was aware of [1:03:31] councillor de jong's notice of [1:03:33] motion. [1:03:33] and the council assisted her in [1:03:37] determining that the best option [1:03:38] [1:03:38] was to send it to the county. [1:03:41] in so doing, there was not a lot [1:03:43] of [1:03:43] of research done and it became [1:03:45] apparent after we had sent it [1:03:47] that the county does not have [1:03:48] the authority to do a moratorium [1:03:51]  moratorium. [1:03:51]  moratorium. [1:03:51] so all I can suggest is that following [1:03:55] following whatever sage advice [1:03:56] we are going to get from the [1:03:58] planner, that we receive it. >> [1:04:03] >> thank you councillor. [1:04:03] so with that, rebecca, this is [1:04:07] your [1:04:07] your introduction. [1:04:08] if you don't mind speaking to the [1:04:11] the restrictions, the limits, [1:04:14] give us some advice on this very [1:04:19] [1:04:19] volatile issue, controversial, [1:04:21] [1:04:21] maybe not volatile but certainly [1:04:25] of interest [1:04:25] of interest to so many people [1:04:25] and we would like to deal with [1:04:27] it [1:04:27] it in a proactive manner before [1:04:28] it [1:04:28] it is on our doorstep. [1:04:31] >> thank you warden. [1:04:33] can you hear me okay? [1:04:36] so on the question of putting a [1:04:40] moratorium, the methods to do [1:04:42] that do not rest with the [1:04:44] county. [1:04:44] that is not within our [1:04:47] jurisdiction. [1:04:47] if the local municipalities see [1:04:49] [1:04:49] fit, the method under section 38 of [1:04:53] of the planning act would mean [1:04:54] [1:04:54] interim control bylaw and that would [1:04:56] would have to be considered, at [1:04:58] the local level. [1:05:00] the purpose of, as councillor [1:05:02] de jong said, is to study [1:05:05] something. [1:05:05] so you're putting in place an [1:05:07] interim control bylaw for one [1:05:09] year, for purposes of studying [1:05:13] a [1:05:13] purpose. [1:05:13] it could then be extended for an [1:05:15] additional year, but there are [1:05:17] expectations of outcomes. [1:05:18] and that was discussed this [1:05:20] evening. [1:05:20] so to the amherstburg [1:05:24] resolution, the county could [1:05:27] definitely take on project [1:05:29] management of the study. [1:05:31] this is quite common that we do [1:05:33] [1:05:33] things like this, we do this with the [1:05:35] with the agricultural lot study [1:05:37] several years ago in 2015. [1:05:41] with outcomes delivered for each [1:05:44] local [1:05:44] local municipality to put in [1:05:46] place. [1:05:46] we have done this for land based [1:05:50] [1:05:50] wind turbines. [1:05:51] it resulted in a county official [1:05:53] [1:05:53] plan amendment, in this case the [1:05:56] project [1:05:56] project management of the study [1:05:58] would [1:05:58] would result in potentially a [1:06:00] county official plan amendment, [1:06:02] [1:06:02] local official planned [1:06:03] amendments, zoning, new [1:06:06] categorization with data [1:06:08] centres, it could be new [1:06:10] definitions in the zoning bylaw, [1:06:12] [1:06:12] site plan control considerations [1:06:15] [1:06:15] as well as councillor prue [1:06:17] brought up, a large part of this [1:06:19] [1:06:19] involves other jurisdictions. [1:06:21] the federal government and the [1:06:22] provincial government. [1:06:24] so another piece of this could [1:06:27] be [1:06:27] be understanding advocacy and [1:06:30] needs up to the provincial and [1:06:32] federal [1:06:32] federal government and outcomes [1:06:33] [1:06:33] that we learn as part of this [1:06:36] study. [1:06:36] as well, I'm aware that this has [1:06:43] [1:06:43] already been addressed in [1:06:44] hamilton, they are currently [1:06:46] studying it. [1:06:47] so I think we could learn a lot [1:06:49] to what is already taking place [1:06:51] [1:06:51] in hamilton. [1:06:52] we will be keeping an eye on [1:06:54] that. [1:06:54] I intend to contact hamilton [1:06:57] planning department and learn [1:06:58] from what they are already doing [1:07:02]  doing. [1:07:02]  doing. [1:07:02] that is all I have, unless there [1:07:05] is [1:07:05] is any other questions. >> I [1:07:07] >> I think we had some questions [1:07:10] [1:07:10] from councillor bondi. [1:07:12] councillor, did you want to pose [1:07:14] [1:07:14] those again? [1:07:15] >> thank you warden macdonald. [1:07:17] [1:07:17] I believe the question was [1:07:20] answered, saying that the bylaw [1:07:21] needs [1:07:21] needs to come at the local [1:07:23] level, which I have to talk to [1:07:25] at [1:07:25] at the director at the local level. [1:07:26] at the director at the local level. [1:07:26] I think one of the issues is [1:07:28] it's not something that is [1:07:29] defined yet. [1:07:31] is that true? [1:07:33] or what advice would you provide [1:07:34] [1:07:34] to local municipalities that want to [1:07:35] want to do an interim control [1:07:37] bylaw until the county study is [1:07:40] [1:07:40] done. >> to [1:07:41] >> to you warden, particularly [1:07:44] [1:07:44] the advice is first of all, we [1:07:47] need a commitment that we are [1:07:49] going to undertake a study. [1:07:51] so we need to wait and confirm, [1:07:54] although [1:07:54] although this is coming out this [1:07:55] [1:07:55] evening. [1:07:55] so we need confirmation [1:07:58] following the report back from [1:08:00] county [1:08:00] county administration and the direction [1:08:02] direction that we are going to [1:08:03] [1:08:03] see with the study. [1:08:06] to your question as well, I did [1:08:09] write [1:08:09] write it down, you asked if you [1:08:12] [1:08:12] were exposed. [1:08:13] we have taken a preliminary skin [1:08:16] of [1:08:16] of your zoning bylaws, which [1:08:18] of course permits the land use [1:08:20] [1:08:20] of a data center and we can [1:08:23] confirm as well, a data center [1:08:26] [1:08:26] is defined in the lakeshore [1:08:31] bylaws in limited zones. [1:08:34] and it's brought to [1:08:36] interpretation because it is not [1:08:37] [1:08:37] yet defined. So [1:08:38] so it could be a permitted use, [1:08:42] because [1:08:42] because there is unclear [1:08:43] definitions. [1:08:43] so is there an exposure [1:08:47] presently, yes there is. [1:08:49] but should county council direct [1:08:53] [1:08:53] this work. [1:08:56] and we can address the external [1:08:58] consulting support to undertake [1:08:59] [1:08:59] this work. [1:09:01] to assist county planning with [1:09:03] expertise and planning policy, [1:09:05] [1:09:05] electrical and environmental [1:09:07] engineering potentially. [1:09:09] >> further? >> [1:09:11] >> just to follow up, perhaps to [1:09:12] wear a cao. [1:09:13] right now county council has approved [1:09:15] approved direction to [1:09:16] administration to come back with [1:09:17] information on a study. What [1:09:19] what is our timeline, how far will [1:09:21] will we be exposed? [1:09:22] because some of us can plan motions [1:09:24] motions at our locals to tee up to [1:09:25] to when that report is coming up. [1:09:27] to when that report is coming up. [1:09:27] so that we are exposing the least [1:09:29] least amount of time. [1:09:30] >> through you warden, as I [1:09:32] mentioned earlier, [1:09:33] administratively, when we [1:09:35] learned of the notice of motion [1:09:36] that was [1:09:36] that was going to be debated [1:09:37] this evening, the wheels on the [1:09:39] administrative side started to [1:09:41] turn already [1:09:41] turn already and we were working [1:09:41] on that draft report. [1:09:43] so rebecca and I have a goal of the [1:09:46] the september second meeting to [1:09:47] [1:09:47] get that preliminary document to [1:09:49] you. [1:09:49] if, for some reason, our [1:09:52] timeline doesn't hold to the [1:09:53] september second, I will let [1:09:55] council know by email. [1:09:56] but our goal at this point, [1:09:57] based on the work already [1:09:59] underway, is to get a report to [1:10:01] county [1:10:01] county council for the [1:10:02] september second meeting. [1:10:03] so our next meeting with council [1:10:06]  council. [1:10:06]  council. [1:10:06] >> anyone else? [1:10:10] sorry councillor deyong. >> [1:10:12] >> sorry warden. [1:10:13] I'm just hoping maybe you can [1:10:15] clarify, rebecca, are the local [1:10:16] municipalities able to rely on [1:10:19] the county's study as part of [1:10:21] their interim control bylaw that [1:10:22] is allowed? [1:10:24] >> yes, that would be [1:10:26] considered. [1:10:26] we are studying it jointly. [1:10:28] I have already sent an email to [1:10:30] all of the municipal planners, [1:10:32] told [1:10:32] told them we are looking at [1:10:34] their zoning bylaws. [1:10:35] I advise them of the notice of [1:10:37] motion this evening and that [1:10:39] they would potentially be [1:10:40] invited to participate as part [1:10:41] of a [1:10:42] of a technical planning advisory [1:10:43] [1:10:43] committee. [1:10:43] >> maybe then as part of this [1:10:47] report, we can include that step [1:10:49] [1:10:49] for local municipalities that this [1:10:50] this is an option that they can [1:10:53] put [1:10:53] put an interim control bylaw [1:10:54] using the county's study on the [1:10:57] [1:10:57] issue as their required study of [1:10:59] the topic. [1:11:01] thank you. [1:11:04] >> duly noted, okay, thank you. [1:11:07] [1:11:07] anyone else? [1:11:10] then I'm going to suggest that [1:11:13] [1:11:13] perhaps the resolution should be [1:11:16] -- [1:11:16] -- or the resolution or [1:11:18] recommendation that the town of [1:11:19] amherstburg regarding ai [1:11:21] dentistas be received and filed. [1:11:24] [1:11:24] moved by councillor gibb and [1:11:26] seconded by councillor prue. [1:11:28] any further discussion? [1:11:29] then I will ask you to vote [1:11:31] electronically please. [1:11:34] that is a thumbs up, councillor [1:11:43] mcnamara, thank you. [1:11:46] and that is carried unanimously. [1:11:49] [1:11:49] so thank you all. [1:11:54] mr. Ray, councillor deyong and [1:11:58] [1:11:58] our planner. [1:11:59] [applause] [1:11:59] thank you everyone, thank you [1:12:02] for attending. [1:12:03] and now, council will resume the [1:12:05] regular order of business with [1:12:07] [1:12:07] item ten. [1:12:09] item ten is communications. [1:12:12] there are 12 pieces of correspondence [1:12:14] correspondence listed on the [1:12:15] agenda this evening. [1:12:17] one of which council has already [1:12:19] received. [1:12:19] received. [1:12:19] are there any other items that [1:12:21] council would [1:12:21] council would like to discuss? [1:12:23] [1:12:23] councillor bondi? [1:12:24] >> thank you warden macdonald. [1:12:26] [1:12:26] I understand that we were [1:12:29] invited to the shovel [1:12:32] groundbreaking of the hospital and [1:12:33] and that has been something we [1:12:34] have been following, trying to [1:12:36] invite the hospital committee [1:12:38] here, which maybe doesn't need [1:12:39] to happen any time soon, since [1:12:40] we put the shovel in the ground. [1:12:43] [1:12:43] but I think one thing that our [1:12:44] local [1:12:44] local taxpayers are going to [1:12:45] want to know is whether our [1:12:48] commitment is changing from 100 million to [1:12:51] 100 million to more or less. [1:12:53] one of the local mpps, mr. Dowey [1:12:56] did [1:12:56] did tell me that of course it is [1:12:58] going [1:12:58] going to be more. [1:12:59] but I don't know if other counties paying [1:13:01] counties paying for their [1:13:02] hospital, I'm not sure if we [1:13:03] will be paying for more, but I [1:13:04] think it's something we need to [1:13:05] have [1:13:05] have in writing that we are not [1:13:06] going [1:13:06] going to pay more. [1:13:08] and I went back and found the old resolution [1:13:09] old resolution saying we are not [1:13:10] [1:13:10] paying more. But [1:13:12] but now that the hospital is [1:13:14] being built and our mpp did say [1:13:17] that [1:13:17] that we are paying more, I think [1:13:18] that is concerning and just [1:13:20] wondering if our cao has any [1:13:22] advice on that and if we could [1:13:24] reach [1:13:24] reach out and confirm that we [1:13:25] are not paying more. [1:13:27] >> through you warden. [1:13:30] we have not received any formal [1:13:32] communication from windsor [1:13:34] regional hospital asking [1:13:34] the county of essex for more [1:13:36] money. [1:13:36] and to your point councillor [1:13:40] bondi, a great, groundbreaking [1:13:43] [1:13:43] ceremony to shed a positive [1:13:45] light on a long awaited project. [1:13:47] and I will continue to be in [1:13:49] conversation with kristen kennedy [1:13:54] kennedy on any information [1:13:55] relating to the cost. [1:13:58] >> thank you. [1:14:01] so then, there is a [1:14:03] recommendation that the items of correspondence [1:14:06] correspondence listed be received [1:14:07] received and any action [1:14:09] approved. [1:14:09] looking for a mover and a [1:14:12] seconder. [1:14:12] councillor deyong, councillor [1:14:15] gibb. [1:14:15] all in favour by show of hands? [1:14:17] [1:14:17] that is carried, thank you. [1:14:21] the resolution listed under item [1:14:28] ten [1:14:28] ten .2.1 was addressed in fact [1:14:30] we will move [1:14:30] we will move on to ten .2.2, which [1:14:32] which is a resolution from the [1:14:34] [1:14:34] town of essex dated july 23rd, [1:14:37] [1:14:37] 2026, regarding lack of access [1:14:39] [1:14:39] to municipal recycling diversion [1:14:40] [1:14:40] data. [1:14:40] would a member of essex like to [1:14:42] speak to it? [1:14:43] councillor bondi? [1:14:44] >> thank you warden macdonald. [1:14:46] [1:14:46] I would like to ask my county [1:14:48] colleagues that we support this [1:14:50] and send this on to circular [1:14:52] materials and send it on to the [1:14:54] solid waste authority as well. [1:14:57] [1:14:57] this is what I alluded to at the [1:14:58] last [1:14:58] last meeting, something we did [1:15:00] [1:15:00] in essex when we get the reports, [1:15:01] reports, we read the reports and [1:15:03] [1:15:03] right now circular materials has [1:15:05] [1:15:05] been wishy washy on whether they [1:15:07] are going to give us annual [1:15:08] reports on diversion. [1:15:10] it will be hard to report apples [1:15:12] to oranges or apples to apples [1:15:15] going [1:15:15] going forward on diversion and [1:15:16] I [1:15:16] believe the solid waste authority [1:15:18] authority has a delegation. So [1:15:19] so this is something, if we support [1:15:21] support it they can perhaps use [1:15:22] it to beef up their delegation [1:15:25] . [1:15:25] they don't have one, do they? >> [1:15:29] >> did they get denied? >> [1:15:30] >> through you warden, yes, we [1:15:32] received [1:15:32] received word that the delegation [1:15:33] delegation on that topic was [1:15:34] denied by the province. [1:15:37] >> okay, well -- that is [1:15:40] surprising, sorry. [1:15:41] I would still like to see if [1:15:44] council will support sending [1:15:45] this letter to circular materials [1:15:46] materials since we are the host [1:15:47] municipality here in the county [1:15:49] of [1:15:49] of essex of the landfill, we [1:15:50] would like to know what is going [1:15:52] [1:15:52] on. [1:15:52] >> we will just wait until the [1:16:32] resolution is updated, then I will [1:16:34] will read it. [1:16:36] the resolution is that the -- the [1:16:59] the recommendation is the resolution [1:17:00] resolution from the town of [1:17:01] essex, regarding municipal [1:17:03] recycling diversion data be received [1:17:04] received and that council direct [1:17:06] administration to send a letter [1:17:08] in [1:17:08] in support of the town of essex. [1:17:10] [1:17:10] and you are good with that [1:17:11] motion then, councillor bondi? [1:17:13] [1:17:13] seconded by deputy warden. [1:17:16] perfect. [1:17:16] any comments or questions? [1:17:20] >> madam warden. >> [1:17:21] >> yes, councillor -- [1:17:23] mcnamara? [1:17:23] >> I would also suggest that we [1:17:28] [1:17:28] also see see that to amo. [1:17:34] for comment. [1:17:35] because it is not only our [1:17:38] authority, but there is others [1:17:40] across the province that have been [1:17:42] been asking for the same request [1:17:46] and [1:17:46] and it was unfortunate that last [1:17:49] [1:17:49] week the government turned us [1:17:53] down on the delegation. [1:17:56] >> duly noted, that is good with the [1:17:58] the mover and the seconder? [1:18:00] perfect. [1:18:00] speaking to that, deputy warden? [1:18:03] >> if [1:18:03] >> if we can add a friendly [1:18:04] amendment to send the [1:18:06] correspondence to the minister [1:18:07] of the [1:18:07] of the environment, todd [1:18:09] mccarthy so that they are [1:18:11] aware of this issue and have [1:18:13] them advocate for us for our [1:18:15] region. [1:18:15] >> more duly noted. [1:18:22] that this okay then? [1:18:24] then I will ask you to vote [1:18:25] electronically, please. [1:18:29] I see all of those thumbs up, [1:18:43] thank you counsellor. [1:18:45] and that is carried, thank you [1:18:48] [1:18:48] very much. [1:18:50] then we have the consent agenda, [1:18:53] four [1:18:53] four items are listed on it. [1:18:55] a summary of outstanding matters [1:18:56] [1:18:56] report for august fifth, 2026, [1:18:59] quarter 22026 quarterly [1:19:01] procurement summary, [1:19:03] implementation by ontario public [1:19:05] procurement requirements and county [1:19:06] county encampment update. [1:19:08] any questions for administration [1:19:10] on [1:19:10] on the items listed on consent? [1:19:11] [1:19:11] counsellor gib? [1:19:12] >> thank you madam warden. [1:19:15] for item 11.3, the [1:19:17] implementation of the buy [1:19:19] ontario policy, I'm a little [1:19:21] unclear. [1:19:21] so from the way I read the [1:19:24] report, we are going to give [1:19:28] preferential treatment to a [1:19:30] supplier that has a higher buy [1:19:34] ontario based percentage of [1:19:38] service or product. [1:19:41] does that mean that the county [1:19:42] could, in essence, spend $250,000 more [1:19:46] $250,000 more for a service or [1:19:49] a product [1:19:50] product for a negligible [1:19:51] difference in the buy ontario [1:19:54] percentage? [1:19:54] if it is $200,000 more, but it [1:19:58] [1:19:58] only brings the ontario [1:20:00] percentage from 75 to 76%, that [1:20:05] [1:20:05] doesn't seem -- it seems a bit [1:20:07] [1:20:07] counterintuitive to me. [1:20:08] I would like a little more [1:20:09] information on that, if you [1:20:12] could. [1:20:12] >> melissa? [1:20:13] >> through you warden, that can [1:20:16] [1:20:16] be the case. [1:20:17] there is a cap of 25%. [1:20:20] so we have to follow the rules. [1:20:22] but if it is over 25% higher, then [1:20:28] then we have discretion there [1:20:29] where we wouldn't have to go with [1:20:32] with the highest -- whoever is [1:20:34] [1:20:34] meeting the content criteria. [1:20:36] but it does give them -- it [1:20:39] won't always be the lowest cost [1:20:42] [1:20:42] moving forward with this. [1:20:45] >> so just as a follow up, we [1:20:48] could be spending more for a [1:20:51] negligible difference -- or what [1:20:53] I [1:20:53] I would consider a negligible [1:20:55] difference in the ontario [1:20:59] content of a contract. [1:21:02] is this set in stone? [1:21:03] is this something that the [1:21:05] province has said "we shall do [1:21:08] [1:21:08] this?" [1:21:08] or is this something where [1:21:10] council can take it on a case-by-case [1:21:13] case-by-case basis and say the [1:21:14] [1:21:14] added cost is not justified by [1:21:17] the increase in ontario content? [1:21:20] [1:21:20] >> through you warden, it is [1:21:23] legislation, we do have to [1:21:24] follow it. [1:21:24] however, we are tracking if any [1:21:28] of [1:21:28] of this really affects us and we [1:21:30] [1:21:30] would come back to council with [1:21:31] those higher dollar value ones. [1:21:34] [1:21:34] I believe our manager of [1:21:36] procurement is here today, but [1:21:37] I [1:21:37] believe we have only had two or [1:21:38] three go [1:21:39] three go out so far and we [1:21:41] haven't had that scenario where [1:21:42] we are paying more for [1:21:44] something. But it [1:21:44] but it is a possibility for the [1:21:46] [1:21:46] future, we will be tracking [1:21:47] these to make sure we are at least [1:21:50] least having an eye on how much [1:21:51] this is [1:21:51] this is going to be moving [1:21:52] forward, for budgets moving [1:21:54] forward in the future because it [1:21:56] is legislation [1:21:56] is legislation and we do have to [1:21:57] [1:21:57] follow it. >> [1:21:58] >> just one more, I'm sorry. [1:22:00] just because locally, we have [1:22:04] had something happen with this. [1:22:07] [1:22:07] will all of the bidders follow [1:22:09] [1:22:09] the same pattern? [1:22:13] or will some take something into [1:22:15] account [1:22:15] account that another one might [1:22:16] [1:22:16] have missed? [1:22:17] is that something that the [1:22:18] administration is going to look [1:22:20] at? [1:22:20] because there could be a [1:22:25] situation where the county [1:22:26] includes a contingency of [1:22:31] $200,000.01 contractor thinks [1:22:32] well that qualifies for the buy ontario [1:22:35] ontario where another one [1:22:36] doesn't include that. Are [1:22:37] are we going to be sure that [1:22:39] when we get these, they have been [1:22:41] been standardized and we have [1:22:42] checked the math, so to speak? [1:22:46] [1:22:46] >> through you warden, so they [1:22:48] [1:22:48] do have to attest to the [1:22:51] information that they are [1:22:52] providing us with. [1:22:53] there is nothing in the [1:22:55] legislation that requires us to [1:22:57] [1:22:57] audit them. [1:22:58] but they are attesting to if [1:23:00] they are going to use -- we like [1:23:03] [1:23:03] these widgets, if they are going [1:23:04] [1:23:04] to use widgets and their [1:23:06] construction and it is ontario [1:23:07] [1:23:07] or canadian, that we are assuming [1:23:10] assuming that they are attesting [1:23:11] [1:23:11] that is true. [1:23:12] there is nothing more that we [1:23:14] would follow up, that is all. [1:23:17] >> councillor prue? [1:23:19] >> on exactly the same item, what [1:23:21] what we have on our monday [1:23:22] council meeting coming up is $165,000 and [1:23:27] $165,000 and I can't find any [1:23:28] difference. [1:23:28] if there is, it is so minuscule that [1:23:32] that it is beyond belief. [1:23:34] what that equates to is $7 for [1:23:36] [1:23:36] every man, woman, and child in [1:23:38] amherstburg having to pay that [1:23:40] [1:23:40] extra money. [1:23:41] and the province doesn't want to [1:23:43] [1:23:43] reimburse us, they don't want to [1:23:44] [1:23:44] give us a single penny. [1:23:46] so it means that every taxpayer [1:23:47] is [1:23:47] is going to pay $7 more than the [1:23:51] lowest [1:23:51] lowest bid to satisfy what, I [1:23:53] don't know. [1:23:55] and I don't think this [1:23:56] legislation is very well thought [1:23:59] out. [1:23:59] maybe the county and maybe [1:24:02] monday, when we get to this in [1:24:04] [1:24:04] our own council meeting, we should [1:24:05] should send a pretty strong [1:24:07] message off to the province that [1:24:10] [1:24:10] this runs contrary to everything [1:24:12] that [1:24:12] that municipalities have been [1:24:13] doing for 20 years. [1:24:14] looking for the lowest bidder, [1:24:16] [1:24:16] looking for the best value and [1:24:19] [1:24:19] going with that. [1:24:21] because to just leave it out there, [1:24:23] there, if we just leave this [1:24:24] alone, it is going to cost the [1:24:28] [1:24:28] county, all of our seven [1:24:30] constituents and municipalities [1:24:32] [1:24:32] and all 444 municipalities and [1:24:36] ontario [1:24:36] ontario sooner or later, are [1:24:37] going to be bitten by this and [1:24:38] get no value for a piece of [1:24:41] legislation that doesn't work. [1:24:45] [1:24:45] so I don't know whether to make [1:24:46] [1:24:46] that motion, I guess I would [1:24:47] have to make a notice of motion [1:24:48] [1:24:48] later today. [1:24:49] maybe I will float it at [1:24:51] amherstburg first and then come [1:24:53] [1:24:53] back to you, because I don't think [1:24:56] think we can let this stand. [1:24:57] I honestly think that this is [1:25:00] really wrong. [1:25:01] because for 50 years or so, the [1:25:04] [1:25:04] province of ontario has told us we [1:25:05] we have to do the lowest bid. [1:25:07] they also told us that we could [1:25:11] not [1:25:11] not differentiate between [1:25:12] canadian and u.s. Buyers. [1:25:14] if we had, especially when you [1:25:16] live [1:25:16] live near the border, you couldn't [1:25:18] couldn't differentiate between [1:25:19] the two. [1:25:19] and that we had to take all bids [1:25:21] [1:25:21] on their face. [1:25:23] and all of a sudden we have a [1:25:25] diametrical 180-degree turn for [1:25:35] [1:25:35] no perceived value to us. [1:25:38] >> madam cao? [1:25:39] >> thank you warden. [1:25:41] to your comments councillor [1:25:44] prue, I think you are right in [1:25:45] that [1:25:45] that back I believe it was [1:25:47] around 2017, maybe slightly earlier [1:25:50] earlier than that, you will all [1:25:51] recall the cft a.. [1:25:52] the requirement to recognize the [1:25:55] [1:25:55] global economy. [1:25:57] and our inability to [1:25:59] discriminate against global players [1:26:02] players and you are seeing a [1:26:03] reverse of that and a look [1:26:05] towards ontario specifically. [1:26:08] what I would recommend, and as [1:26:09] director ryan has indicated, what [1:26:11] what we are doing here at the [1:26:12] county is statistically tracking [1:26:13] the [1:26:13] the impacts of this legislation [1:26:15] [1:26:15] on our budget. [1:26:17] the recommendation is that each [1:26:18] of [1:26:18] of your locals do the same. [1:26:21] and that we use that data to [1:26:23] inform our advocacy at the [1:26:24] provincial levels. [1:26:27] I know certainly melissa meets [1:26:29] with your prospective treasurers [1:26:30] [1:26:30] on a basis and this has been a [1:26:33] topic of conversation. [1:26:33] I know there has also been [1:26:35] discussion around standardizing [1:26:38] the [1:26:38] the approach to the legislation. [1:26:40] [1:26:40] so definitely recommending this [1:26:42] evening that each of the locals [1:26:44] track the same way that the county [1:26:45] county is, the data associated [1:26:48] with [1:26:48] with implementing this [1:26:49] legislation so that we do have [1:26:51] information armed to take that [1:26:52] forward [1:26:52] forward and add it to our advocacy [1:26:55] advocacy campaign at the county [1:26:56] level. [1:26:56] level. [1:26:56] as well as with each of you at [1:26:58] the local level. [1:27:01] >> councillor shapley? [1:27:03] >> thank you and through you [1:27:04] madam warden. [1:27:07] deputy mayor and mayor prue -- [1:27:10] and [1:27:10] and I've talked to a bunch of [1:27:12] developers and guys that build, [1:27:15] and it seems that there's a lot [1:27:17] of [1:27:17] of discrepancy with how we are [1:27:20] [1:27:20] accepting these proposals that [1:27:22] are [1:27:22] are coming in. [1:27:23] and I guess what I'm wondering [1:27:25] is in the event that one of them [1:27:26] [1:27:26] is in and someone attests to it, [1:27:29] is [1:27:29] is there a mechanism for someone [1:27:31] [1:27:31] to challenge that, that is also [1:27:34] [1:27:34] bidding to guarantee that they [1:27:37] are [1:27:37] are leading that level of [1:27:41] ontario and then -- and if they [1:27:44] were [1:27:44] were attesting to something that [1:27:45] [1:27:45] maybe this person left out [1:27:46] because they don't feel it was [1:27:48] [1:27:48] or whatever, I just think it is [1:27:50] [1:27:50] very -- it seems very messy to [1:27:52] [1:27:52] me. [1:27:52] >> through you warden, they do [1:27:57] [1:27:57] have to attest to it. [1:28:00] the approach that the county is [1:28:01] taking [1:28:01] taking right now is not to [1:28:03] question anything. [1:28:03] however, just like any rfp or [1:28:05] rfp that goes out, if there is [1:28:08] something [1:28:08] something controversial that we will [1:28:09] will look into, we will [1:28:10] definitely look into that at [1:28:11] that time, if that came about. [1:28:14] but that as of right now, we are [1:28:15] not [1:28:15] not dedicating any resources to [1:28:17] do more than they have attested [1:28:18] [1:28:18] to it, we are believing what [1:28:20] they are attesting to and that is [1:28:21] is how we are moving forward. [1:28:22] but we can definitely look into [1:28:23] something if someone thought [1:28:24] something wasn't true. [1:28:28] >> anything you would like to [1:28:30] add to that? [1:28:31] >> through you warden, there are [1:28:33] mechanisms within the [1:28:34] procurement policy and our [1:28:36] procedures for proponents to [1:28:39] object. [1:28:39] there are mechanisms to that if [1:28:40] someone did want to challenge how the [1:28:42] how the decision was made. [1:28:43] there is a process and a policy [1:28:45] [1:28:45] for that. [1:28:47] >> no further questions then? [1:28:49] there is a recommendation that [1:28:51] the [1:28:51] the administrative reports [1:28:52] listed as items 11.1 through 11.4 [1:28:55] 11.4 listed on the consent [1:28:57] agenda for august fifth, 2026, [1:28:59] [1:28:59] be received as information. Looking [1:29:01] looking for a mover and a [1:29:03] seconder. [1:29:03] any discussion? [1:29:08] I will ask you to vote [1:29:10] electronically please. [1:29:12] and that is a thumbs up for you, [1:29:32] [1:29:32] councillor? [1:29:32] and that is carried, thank you. [1:29:37] [1:29:37] on to reports and questions, the [1:29:40] first report [1:29:40] first report is the strategic plan [1:29:41] plan governance road map and the [1:29:43] [1:29:43] decision framework, over to you, [1:29:45] [1:29:45] madam cao. [1:29:46] >> thank you warden, through you [1:29:47] [1:29:47] to county council. [1:29:49] so this is a follow up report to [1:29:52] work [1:29:52] work that county council [1:29:53] undertook earlier this year with [1:29:55] the help of strategycorp. [1:29:56] and as you recall, we met to look at [1:29:59] look at where we were tracking [1:30:00] on our strategic plan and build [1:30:03] a road map [1:30:03] a road map to take us into the [1:30:04] [1:30:04] next term of council. [1:30:06] so attached to my report this evening [1:30:07] evening is that road map, as [1:30:09] summarized by strategycorp. [1:30:11] I won't go into great detail, but [1:30:13] but essentially that road map celebrated [1:30:15] celebrated what we did achieve, [1:30:17] [1:30:17] recognized the challenges that [1:30:18] [1:30:18] we faced during the last three and a [1:30:20] and a half years, and also [1:30:23] helped us solidify what things [1:30:25] will [1:30:25] will be moving into the next [1:30:27] term of council. One [1:30:28] one of the key discussions we had [1:30:30] had that day, surrounded beefing [1:30:32] [1:30:32] up our ability to sequence and [1:30:36] prioritize and filter the things [1:30:39] that come across our table in [1:30:40] terms of opportunities and [1:30:42] challenges. [1:30:42] and also attached to the report [1:30:44] this evening in the second [1:30:46] appendix is strategycorp [1:30:49] decision filter matrix proposal. [1:30:52] and [1:30:52] and this has been vetted by the [1:30:53] senior [1:30:53] senior leadership team and we do [1:30:55] [1:30:55] feel that it fully encompasses [1:30:57] [1:30:57] the various components of decision [1:30:59] decision making that we do need [1:31:01] to make sure we satisfy before [1:31:05] [1:31:05] projects become more squarely on [1:31:07] [1:31:07] the plate of administration from [1:31:09] a [1:31:09] a resource perspective. [1:31:10] so you will see in that filter [1:31:12] [1:31:12] matrix, seven different [1:31:14] categories that we are making [1:31:15] sure that we detail and ask ourselves [1:31:19] ourselves as we go through. [1:31:20] the first one is does it meet the [1:31:22] the strategic plan in the first [1:31:23] place, step one. [1:31:26] the second is surrounding [1:31:27] regional benefit and the [1:31:28] conversation of does this impact [1:31:32] us at [1:31:32] us at the county level, is it [1:31:34] our lane? [1:31:35] the third is funding. [1:31:36] we can't ignore how things are [1:31:38] [1:31:38] paid for. [1:31:39] so making sure we have a thought [1:31:40] [1:31:40] for that in the early stages of our [1:31:43] our prioritization is important. [1:31:46] [1:31:46] sustainability. [1:31:46] if we undertake something today, [1:31:48] [1:31:48] can we make sure we can sustain [1:31:50] it [1:31:50] it responsibly going forward? [1:31:53] capacity. [1:31:53] do we have resources enough to [1:31:55] get this off the ground? Will [1:31:58] will we need more? [1:31:59] is there awareness around what [1:32:00] that looks like, how we would [1:32:01] fund it? [1:32:04] and the trade off decision of if [1:32:05] [1:32:05] we have capacity and we use it [1:32:07] for a certain initiative, are we [1:32:09] [1:32:09] okay with the opportunity cost [1:32:10] of [1:32:10] of not having that capacity for [1:32:12] [1:32:12] something else? [1:32:14] jurisdiction again ties in to [1:32:15] the regional benefit of should [1:32:17] it [1:32:17] it be in our lane, but more importantly [1:32:19] importantly to our other levels [1:32:20] of [1:32:20] of government perhaps, [1:32:22] responsible or looking into it [1:32:23] and [1:32:23] and making sure we are not [1:32:24] duplicating or overlapping our [1:32:26] [1:32:26] efforts. [1:32:26] and finally for a timing and [1:32:29] urgency perspective, this is [1:32:30] something that we want to be more [1:32:33] more intentional about in terms [1:32:34] of that [1:32:34] of that sequencing feedback we [1:32:35] [1:32:35] got from county council. [1:32:37] what is important today, tomorrow [1:32:39] tomorrow and into the future? [1:32:42] what can we hold off on, what [1:32:43] are things that we need to [1:32:45] prioritize? [1:32:45] and understanding the timing of [1:32:49] things. [1:32:49] what we can achieve with a [1:32:52] certain. [1:32:52] and let's not overpromise and [1:32:59] under-deliver, let's do the [1:33:01] opposite and under-promising and [1:33:02] overdelivering. [1:33:02] that has a timing and urgency component [1:33:06] component consideration to it as [1:33:07] [1:33:07] well. [1:33:07] so this evening, for council's [1:33:10] information, we are looking to [1:33:12] [1:33:12] have council approve this decision [1:33:13] decision matrix and if it does [1:33:14] [1:33:14] approve this evening, we would [1:33:16] [1:33:16] be appending it to our formal [1:33:19] strategic plan and posting it publicly [1:33:20] publicly on our website. [1:33:22] and using it and integrating it [1:33:23] the way we have our strategic [1:33:25] plan more broadly into our [1:33:27] administrative decision making, [1:33:29] [1:33:29] budget setting and reporting out [1:33:30] [1:33:30] to council. [1:33:31] and with that, I would be happy [1:33:33] to [1:33:33] to answer any questions. >> [1:33:35] >> thank you madam cao. [1:33:36] questions? [1:33:36] councillor bailey? [1:33:40] >> thank you warden and through [1:33:42] you, more of a comment. [1:33:43] I'm thrilled to see it, this is [1:33:46] one of [1:33:46] one of those decision tree matrixes [1:33:47] matrixes that I have been [1:33:48] begging for, it aligns really [1:33:50] nicely, very well done. [1:33:51] 10 out of 10, 12 out of 10, [1:33:53] can't wait to see it on the [1:33:55] place mat. [1:33:57] I think it is just brilliant [1:33:59] because it creates this [1:34:00] foundational document that helps [1:34:02] us [1:34:02] us make decisions but doesn't align [1:34:05] align with an emotional response [1:34:08] or the other things that kind of [1:34:09] weigh on you. [1:34:10] so it brings evidence, I think, [1:34:13] [1:34:13] to decision making and lets us build [1:34:14] build foundational response when [1:34:17] chambers [1:34:17] chambers may be full and maybe [1:34:18] it's [1:34:18] it's not a popular decision, but [1:34:20] we have run it through this funnel [1:34:21] funnel and we recognize that we [1:34:22] have this foundation to support [1:34:25] us [1:34:25] us through difficult decision making. [1:34:26] us through difficult decision making. [1:34:26] hats off, hats off, hats off and [1:34:29] [1:34:29] thank you. [1:34:29] >> councillor bondi? [1:34:31] >> thank you warden macdonald. [1:34:33] [1:34:33] I also really like it, I want to [1:34:35] [1:34:35] take it back to my local to help [1:34:37] streamline the work there. [1:34:38] my one question is, does it [1:34:40] allow for some flexibility in [1:34:42] case something comes up? [1:34:43] for example, about a year ago we [1:34:45] [1:34:45] probably didn't think we would [1:34:46] [1:34:46] be talking about data centres [1:34:47] tonight. [1:34:47] I am glad we are, we are [1:34:51] responding to the residents. [1:34:52] so I love it. [1:34:53] but sometimes things come up and [1:34:55] I still [1:34:55] I still want us to be able to be [1:34:56] responsive. [1:34:56] >> through you warden, [1:35:00] definitely. As [1:35:00] as you saw with data centres, the effort [1:35:03] the effort that we are going to [1:35:04] be doing, it wasn't on our radar [1:35:05] when we set our strategic plan, [1:35:07] [1:35:07] but now we have incorporated it. [1:35:10] [1:35:10] nothing about this decision [1:35:11] filter would prohibit ideas or [1:35:15] concepts that administration believes [1:35:16] believes should come to this [1:35:18] table. [1:35:18] but it does give a framework to [1:35:20] help [1:35:20] help council and administration [1:35:22] [1:35:22] prioritize whether we act or whether [1:35:24] whether we put it on a shelf and [1:35:25] [1:35:25] hold. [1:35:25] >> councillor shapley? [1:35:28] >> through you madam warden, I [1:35:30] like it. [1:35:31] I really just had one question and [1:35:32] and I'm sure you've got a great [1:35:33] [1:35:33] answer for it and I'm sure you [1:35:35] [1:35:35] already know, but when we are [1:35:37] looking at that regional aspect [1:35:39] and if one municipality is [1:35:41] negatively affected by that same [1:35:43] information will come to us, so while [1:35:45] while we were making that regional [1:35:46] regional decision, we also realized [1:35:47] realized the burden that we could [1:35:48] could possibly be placing on any [1:35:51] individual municipality. >> [1:35:53] >> through you warden, yes. [1:35:54] and it is important that all [1:35:55] reports from administration are [1:35:57] [1:35:57] balanced. [1:35:57] that we give you the information [1:35:59] [1:35:59] you need to hear, not the information [1:36:01] information we think you want to [1:36:02] hear. [1:36:02] hear. [1:36:02] so that is our commitment and giving you [1:36:04] giving you the full picture. [1:36:07] when we talk about a regional benefit [1:36:10] benefit and one of the guiding [1:36:11] [1:36:11] principles as well is that on the [1:36:14] the whole, we are looking to [1:36:15] benefit the municipality, that [1:36:19] [1:36:19] may result in some things [1:36:20] benefiting a local more or less. [1:36:22] and again, the transparency around [1:36:24] around what that looks like needs [1:36:25] needs to be presented publicly [1:36:26] [1:36:26] and to council. [1:36:28] it doesn't mean everyone will [1:36:29] have equal benefit, but a [1:36:31] commitment from this [1:36:32] administration that you will get [1:36:33] [1:36:33] the full, unadulterated picture [1:36:36] of [1:36:36] of what an issue will impact the [1:36:38] [1:36:38] region. [1:36:38] >> anyone else? [1:36:43] in that case, there is a [1:36:45] recommendation that council [1:36:47] received the report as [1:36:48] information and that council [1:36:51] approved the decision filter [1:36:53] framework. [1:36:53] moved by councillor deyong and [1:36:57] [1:36:57] seconded. [1:36:57] any further discussion? [1:37:00] seeing none, then I will ask you [1:37:02] [1:37:02] to vote electronically please. [1:37:05] [1:37:05] and that is a thumbs up from [1:37:20] you, councillor? [1:37:21] thank you. And [1:37:24] and that is carried. [1:37:25] thank you. [1:37:28] next up, we have the interim [1:37:32] treasurer services, again, over [1:37:34] to [1:37:34] to you, madam cao. [1:37:36] >> thank you warden, through you [1:37:37] [1:37:37] to county council. [1:37:39] a colleague of mine, sonya [1:37:40] pritchard who was the cao for a [1:37:43] different county as retired. [1:37:46] historically, a different county has [1:37:47] has been the municipality, [1:37:49] recently to offer the financial [1:37:51] [1:37:51] back of house services for the [1:37:53] [1:37:53] western ontario caucus. [1:37:56] it has come to be known to me, [1:37:58] [1:37:58] that I believe I am now the only [1:38:00] cao [1:38:00] cao who also has a cpa as an [1:38:03] accountant. [1:38:03] so I got a tap on the shoulder, [1:38:07] [1:38:07] would I be interested in [1:38:09] temporarily taking on sonya's role [1:38:12] role while they determine a more [1:38:14] [1:38:14] permanent solution. [1:38:15] so recognizing that that is a workload [1:38:19] workload commitment and I [1:38:20] believe the report indicates the [1:38:22] [1:38:22] time, it is not huge, but there [1:38:24] [1:38:24] is some associated with taking [1:38:26] on [1:38:26] on the financial records for the [1:38:29] [1:38:29] caucus, it would involve [1:38:31] processing some nominal [1:38:32] transactions and maybe obtaining [1:38:34] [1:38:34] the records, monitoring revenues [1:38:36] and [1:38:36] and expenditures, preparing financial [1:38:38] financial information for the [1:38:38] board as required, coordinating [1:38:40] [1:38:40] with auditors and financial [1:38:41] institutions and providing [1:38:43] general financial administrative [1:38:45] [1:38:45] report, all of which I am quite [1:38:46] [1:38:46] familiar with. [1:38:48] and so looking to try to help [1:38:49] the western ontario wardens [1:38:52] caucus in that way in that [1:39:00] scenario, wowc would like that [1:39:01] [1:39:01] to be more permanent, that could [1:39:02] also be something I would bring [1:39:03] back [1:39:03] back to this group. [1:39:07] and I believe that because of [1:39:19] the nominal nature of the work, [1:39:21] [1:39:21] that is something that I can have [1:39:24] have conversations with the executive [1:39:25] executive director on. [1:39:27] in the county, when we get into [1:39:29] service [1:39:29] service arrangements, would like [1:39:30] [1:39:30] to document them and have them [1:39:31] [1:39:31] codified in agreement so that [1:39:32] all parties are clear. [1:39:34] so while we are not recommending [1:39:35] [1:39:35] that at this stage, if this was [1:39:37] something [1:39:37] something that would become more [1:39:38] permanent, I would be bringing [1:39:39] that back to council with likely [1:39:41] a [1:39:41] a recommendation that it be [1:39:43] formalized in an agreement to [1:39:45] protect both parties. [1:39:48] and we ask that you support the [1:39:52] [1:39:52] interim position and if there are [1:39:54] are any questions, I would be [1:39:55] happy to answer them. [1:39:57] >> questions? [1:39:58] councillor deyong? >> [1:40:01] >> what does that mean temporary? [1:40:02] >> what does that mean temporary? [1:40:02] six months, two years? [1:40:04] just curious what the timeline [1:40:06] [1:40:06] is. >> [1:40:07] >> through you warden, that is [1:40:09] a [1:40:09] good question. [1:40:11] I'm guessing this will go to the [1:40:15] next [1:40:15] next caucus meeting, which I [1:40:16] believe is friday. [1:40:18] so I hope to have more [1:40:20] information after that. [1:40:23] >> anyone else? [1:40:25] in that case there is a [1:40:26] recommendation that council [1:40:27] received the report as information [1:40:28] information and that council [1:40:29] authorizes the cao to provide [1:40:32] interim treasurer services to [1:40:33] the western ontario wardens [1:40:35] caucus until such time as wowc [1:40:39] [1:40:39] appoints a permanent treasurer. [1:40:41] [1:40:41] moved and seconded. [1:40:43] any other discussion? [1:40:46] seeing none, I will ask you to [1:40:48] vote [1:40:48] vote electronically please. [1:40:50] and councillor mcnamara is in [1:40:52] favour. [1:40:52] and that is carried, thank you [1:41:12] . [1:41:12] next we have the information [1:41:15] technology services of the 2025 annual [1:41:19] annual departmental update. Turning [1:41:21] turning it over to daryl, our [1:41:22] director of information [1:41:23] technology services. [1:41:24] daryl? [1:41:24] >> thank you. [1:41:26] and through you warden, to [1:41:28] county council, I would like to [1:41:29] walk you through the it [1:41:30] department's 2025 annual report. [1:41:33] [1:41:33] where technology stands, what we [1:41:35] have [1:41:35] have accomplished in 2025, and [1:41:37] to [1:41:37] to give a glimpse into where we [1:41:38] [1:41:38] are headed next. [1:41:40] first, I want to acknowledge the [1:41:41] [1:41:41] work of the it team in 2025. [1:41:44] I am incredibly proud of what this [1:41:45] this team has been able to [1:41:47] accomplish in their dedication [1:41:50] to [1:41:50] to the work of the county. [1:41:52] 2025 was a big year on the [1:41:54] security front. [1:41:55] at the beginning of the year we [1:41:57] implemented our detection and response [1:41:59] response service in partnership [1:42:00] with tell [1:42:00] with tell us and field effect. [1:42:03] almost immediately, it allowed [1:42:04] our [1:42:04] our team to flag high priority [1:42:06] [1:42:06] threats roughly every ten days [1:42:08] [1:42:08] and monitor approximately 430 [1:42:10] devices around the clock. [1:42:12] additionally, through our [1:42:15] programme, the it team delivered [1:42:18] mandatory [1:42:18] mandatory cybersecurity awareness [1:42:20] awareness campaigns to county [1:42:21] staff with full compliance on [1:42:23] all training requirements. [1:42:26] on the service side, our team [1:42:28] supported more than 1100 users, [1:42:30] [1:42:30] over 800 devices and 17 [1:42:33] locations, resolving more than [1:42:36] 6400 [1:42:36] 6400 requests in 2025, most [1:42:39] within eight business hours. [1:42:42] he also modernized how the [1:42:44] county works. [1:42:46] the microsoft 365 rollout [1:42:51] including 5.6 million emails and [1:42:52] files to the file. [1:42:54] including -- improving security, [1:42:56] enabling [1:42:56] enabling synchronous [1:42:57] collaboration and cutting [1:42:58] approximately 144 hours of annual [1:43:02] annual management. [1:43:03] in the fall, it invites a ten week [1:43:06] week competition based project [1:43:08] between [1:43:08] between departments, removed [1:43:10] more than 787000 outdated [1:43:14] records, freeing up over two [1:43:15] terabytes of storage. [1:43:17] and behind the scenes, it kept [1:43:20] 21 [1:43:20] 21 council meetings running, [1:43:22] mostly smoothly. [1:43:23] supported emergency and [1:43:24] community events and [1:43:25] reestablished regular [1:43:26] collaboration with the regional [1:43:28] [1:43:28] municipal partners. [1:43:29] I would be remiss not to [1:43:31] acknowledge the technical [1:43:32] difficulties we have experienced [1:43:33] over [1:43:33] over the last few months and I [1:43:36] want you to know we are working [1:43:37] towards long term solutions for [1:43:39] [1:43:39] our 2027 budget. [1:43:41] looking ahead, our biggest challenge [1:43:43] challenge isn't a single threat, [1:43:44] [1:43:44] it is pace and scope. [1:43:46] artificial intelligence is moving [1:43:48] moving faster than governance [1:43:49] can keep up, and only about a third of [1:43:52] third of our workforce currently [1:43:53] received cybersecurity awareness [1:43:55] [1:43:55] training. [1:43:55] we are planning to address these [1:43:57] gaps in the 2027 budget as well. [1:44:00] [1:44:00] the information you will find in [1:44:02] the appendix helps summarize the [1:44:04] [1:44:04] future vision of the I.t. [1:44:06] organization for the county. [1:44:08] it lays out a path from where it [1:44:10] [1:44:10] sits today, centrally setting [1:44:12] security and systems standards [1:44:15] [1:44:15] while selection and [1:44:16] administration stays primarily [1:44:18] in each department. [1:44:20] towards a fully centralized [1:44:22] model, one set of standards, one [1:44:24] set of systems and one department [1:44:27] department accountable for [1:44:27] security, performance and [1:44:29] governance end-to-end, allowing [1:44:31] our [1:44:31] our systems to become less de [1:44:33] optimized and more optimized. [1:44:35] all of this was delivered by a [1:44:38] lean team of ten. [1:44:41] finally, thank you to our network [1:44:44] network administrator and our [1:44:45] interim city manager for doing [1:44:47] much of the legwork on this [1:44:49] report. [1:44:49] I thank you for your time and the [1:44:52] the opportunity to share this [1:44:52] with you and I'm happy to take [1:44:54] [1:44:54] any questions. [1:44:55] >> thank you daryl. [1:44:57] any questions? [1:45:00] >> I don't really have a question [1:45:05] question but a statement. [1:45:06] I was expecting a really long [1:45:08] presentation, because there was [1:45:09] a [1:45:09] a lot of attachments. [1:45:10] so great presentation, it was very [1:45:12] very informative. Seeing [1:45:14] seeing some of those numbers are [1:45:15] very [1:45:15] very staggering. [1:45:17] you guys really have a hold on [1:45:19] that [1:45:19] that department, congratulations [1:45:20] to you [1:45:20] to you and the team. >> thank you [1:45:21] >> thank you very much. [1:45:23] >> expecting it to be a lot more [1:45:25] boring, you did a great job. [1:45:27] >> I will keep that in mind. >> [1:45:30] >> seriously. [1:45:30] I go back to what councillor meloche [1:45:33] meloche said, really interesting [1:45:34] [1:45:34] information. [1:45:34] really, when I thought it came [1:45:36] up before I read it, I thought [1:45:38] this [1:45:38] this is a yawning, but it [1:45:40] wasn't. [1:45:40] this is interesting, thank you [1:45:42] [1:45:42] for that. [1:45:43] and kudos to your department. >> thank you [1:45:45] >> thank you very much. [1:45:46] I'm happy to hear it wasn't bad. [1:45:49] [1:45:49] [laughs] [1:45:49] >> so with that, anyone else? There [1:45:54] there is a recommendation that [1:45:55] council receive the report as [1:45:57] information. [1:45:57] moved by councillor prue, [1:46:01] seconded by councillor shipley. [1:46:03] any discussion? [1:46:04] I will ask you to vote [1:46:05] electronically please. [1:46:08] thank you for the thumbs up councillor [1:46:17] councillor mcnamara. [1:46:19] next we have the residential [1:46:38] services homes report we have our [1:46:46] our manager of community [1:46:47] services, over to you. [1:46:51] >> good evening warden and [1:46:57] members of county council. [1:46:58] the purpose of my report this [1:47:01] evening is to seek county council [1:47:03] council approval to enter into [1:47:05] a [1:47:05] service agreement with a group [1:47:11] [1:47:11] that intends to purchase one of their [1:47:15] their service homes providers. [1:47:17] [1:47:17] new beginnings rest home is [1:47:19] located in leamington and is [1:47:21] currently operating as a [1:47:23] residential services home and a [1:47:25] retirement home. [1:47:27] they provide residential care to [1:47:29] a [1:47:29] a total of 45 residents, 36 of [1:47:33] whom are subsidized by the [1:47:35] county. [1:47:35] the home is also registered with [1:47:39] a [1:47:39] a retirement home regulatory [1:47:42] authority, which provides [1:47:44] oversight of the private pay residents [1:47:45] residents that are not supported [1:47:47] and [1:47:47] and subsidized by the county. [1:47:50] in june of 2026 the county was [1:47:53] advised [1:47:53] advised that the current owner [1:47:54] of new [1:47:54] of new beginnings rest home had [1:47:57] accepted a conditional offer [1:48:01] from khanda nand inc., with two of the [1:48:03] of the outstanding conditions [1:48:05] being the rh a. Licensing and [1:48:08] county approval. [1:48:09] the buyer initiated a meeting with [1:48:11] with the county stating its [1:48:12] intent to purchase the property [1:48:15] and [1:48:15] and confirming its desire to continue [1:48:17] continue operating the home as [1:48:18] part of the residential services [1:48:20] [1:48:20] homes programme. [1:48:22] the county met with a buyer on [1:48:25] two [1:48:25] two occasions to review the [1:48:26] intentions and long term plan [1:48:29] related to the purchase of the [1:48:31] [1:48:31] property. [1:48:31] during these meetings it was [1:48:33] confirmed that there will be no [1:48:35] disruptions to the care provided [1:48:39] to [1:48:39] to the residents that live [1:48:41] there. [1:48:41] in addition, the buyer has confirmed [1:48:44] confirmed that they will [1:48:45] contract with the current owner [1:48:49] [1:48:49] to continue operating the home [1:48:50] [1:48:50] for a. [1:48:50] of three months, to transition [1:48:54] [1:48:54] and to ensure current [1:48:55] functioning and consistency and [1:48:57] care to the residents. [1:48:59] in addition, being that the home [1:49:01] [1:49:01] is a registered retirement home, [1:49:03] [1:49:03] the buyer had to meet various [1:49:05] educational and staffing [1:49:06] requirements in order to be approved [1:49:08] approved for their license. [1:49:10] they have been informed [1:49:12] verbally, as of today, that they [1:49:13] have met all requirements and [1:49:17] are awaiting receipt of the [1:49:18] official license. [1:49:20] there are no financial impacts [1:49:22] to [1:49:22] to the community services budget [1:49:23] to [1:49:23] to enter into an agreement with [1:49:24] the new owner once the sale of the [1:49:26] the home is finalized. [1:49:28] with that, I am happy to take [1:49:31] any questions. >> [1:49:32] >> thank you. [1:49:32] questions? [1:49:32] councillor shapley? [1:49:35] >> thank you and through you [1:49:36] madam warden. [1:49:37] I'm just wondering? [1:49:40] with this being a new company, [1:49:41] [1:49:41] they don't really have a new track record [1:49:42] track record for you to fall [1:49:43] back on. What [1:49:46] what is the administration's confidence [1:49:48] confidence level with them and [1:49:53] -- [1:49:53] -- what else was there? [1:49:54] I guess that's about it. [1:49:59] they already said there would be [1:50:01] no [1:50:01] no interruptions for the [1:50:02] residents. [1:50:02] I'm just wondering if you can [1:50:05] speak to any track record or anything [1:50:08] anything to help you come to [1:50:11] that. >> [1:50:13] >> really good question. [1:50:14] as I mentioned in my speaking [1:50:15] notes, we had a few meetings with [1:50:18] with the new owner to discuss [1:50:21] their skills, their experience, [1:50:22] [1:50:22] what their plans are. [1:50:25] and one thing I didn't include [1:50:28] in my speaking notes, was that [1:50:30] [1:50:30] all three family members that [1:50:31] will be heavily involved in [1:50:32] operating the home have [1:50:34] experience in working within or [1:50:38] [1:50:38] helping operate similar [1:50:39] facilities in other regions. [1:50:43] being specifically in [1:50:45] saskatchewan and also the u.k. [1:50:49] [1:50:49] one of the owners is a [1:50:51] pharmacist by trade, and his wife [1:50:55] wife is a registered health care [1:50:57] [1:50:57] professional. [1:50:57] and the daughter who hopes to [1:51:01] eventually be the sole owner, is [1:51:06] currently [1:51:06] currently undertaking her nursing [1:51:07] nursing degree at the local [1:51:08] university. [1:51:08] so we did our due diligence in [1:51:15] [1:51:15] vetting the expertise and the [1:51:17] skills and experience of. [1:51:19] the other thing we did is we [1:51:21] reviewed our -- we always do this [1:51:22] this if there is a new [1:51:24] ownership, we review our [1:51:26] programme standards. [1:51:27] we will continue monitoring the [1:51:29] home, usually when we have a new [1:51:31] [1:51:31] operator, we ensure that we [1:51:34] continue our due diligence with [1:51:36] [1:51:36] regular visits and ensuring that [1:51:37] [1:51:37] all of our standards are being [1:51:39] [1:51:39] met. [1:51:39] >> thank you for that, I'm glad [1:51:41] to [1:51:41] to hear it will remain open, [1:51:43] thank you. [1:51:44] >> anyone else? [1:51:47] councillor meloche. >> [1:51:48] >> in your report you do mention [1:51:50] that there [1:51:50] that there will be no [1:51:51] disruptions to the care being [1:51:53] provided to residents. But [1:51:54] but then at the end of that [1:51:55] paragraph, does mention that [1:51:56] they are going to keep a portion [1:51:58] of [1:51:58] of the current staff. [1:52:01] is that a reduction in service [1:52:03] or why would we see such a [1:52:04] change in staff. [1:52:05] that is something that can [1:52:07] disrupt obviously, the home. [1:52:10] >> thank you for your question [1:52:13] and [1:52:13] and through you warden. [1:52:14] any time there is a change in [1:52:16] ownership, with one of our [1:52:19] homes, the old owner has to lay [1:52:22] [1:52:22] off staff and the new owner has [1:52:24] to [1:52:24] to rehire the staff. [1:52:27] so their plan is to keep a large [1:52:31] [1:52:31] portion of the staff and then rehire [1:52:34] rehire to fill the gaps the [1:52:37] level of staffing will not [1:52:41] change and in fact one of the [1:52:42] requirements for the hra is for [1:52:46] [1:52:46] them to hire a manager of the [1:52:50] home that had extensive [1:52:52] expertise in running retirement [1:52:55] [1:52:55] homes or in working within a [1:52:56] retirement home environment. [1:52:59] they had very extensive questions [1:53:04] questions and the process was very [1:53:06] very thorough for them to [1:53:09] approve who would be managing the [1:53:11] the home as well. [1:53:13] so we verified the level of [1:53:15] service, that is the standard [1:53:16] with our programme standards. [1:53:19] so they are not going to be able [1:53:21] [1:53:21] to reduce that. [1:53:24] and we hope that the more staff [1:53:27] [1:53:27] they can keep, the better for [1:53:29] consistency of care and for the [1:53:31] [1:53:31] residents. [1:53:31] but that remains to be seen of who [1:53:35] who the actual staff will be at [1:53:37] the end. [1:53:40] >> thank you. [1:53:42] natasha? [1:53:42] >> through you warden, I might [1:53:45] just [1:53:45] just add for comfort of council [1:53:47] [1:53:47] and those listening to night, that while [1:53:51] that while it is not the same, [1:53:52] [1:53:52] it is similar to expectations you may [1:53:53] you may see in long term care. [1:53:55] [1:53:55] in that they are a regulated [1:53:57] organization and are specific to [1:53:59] ontario [1:53:59] ontario as a form of quality of [1:54:00] care, staffing, medication [1:54:02] administration, policies, [1:54:04] practices, best practice [1:54:05] guidelines. [1:54:05] they are in compliance with what [1:54:08] [1:54:08] we would expect to see in a [1:54:11] regulated health environment, [1:54:12] just wanted to add that, [1:54:14] thank you. >> thank you. [1:54:15] thank you. >> thank you. [1:54:15] no one else? [1:54:18] then there is a recommendation [1:54:19] [1:54:19] that council receive the report [1:54:21] as information [1:54:21] as information and that council [1:54:22] authorizes the warden and clerk [1:54:24] [1:54:24] to execute a service agreement [1:54:28] [1:54:28] with khanda nand inc. At 106 [1:54:31] talbot street leamington as part [1:54:33] of [1:54:33] of the county's residential [1:54:34] services homes programme upon [1:54:35] completion of the purchase of [1:54:37] that property. [1:54:38] moved by councillor meloche, [1:54:41] seconded by deputy warden. [1:54:43] any further discussion? [1:54:45] I will ask you to vote [1:54:46] electronically please. [1:54:49] and again, councillor [1:54:57] mcnamara, thumbs up? [1:54:58] thank you. [1:55:01] and that is carried, thank you [1:55:08] . [1:55:08] next we have the 2026 build [1:55:11] communities strong fund, [1:55:13] community stream funding [1:55:14] allocation. [1:55:14] for that report we have melissa [1:55:17] [1:55:17] ryan, our director of financial [1:55:19] services and our treasurer. [1:55:20] melissa? [1:55:20] >> thank you warden. [1:55:22] through uinta county council. [1:55:24] this report deals with the [1:55:25] allocation of funding received [1:55:26] through [1:55:26] through the building communities [1:55:28] [1:55:28] strong fund or bcsf. [1:55:30] so members of council will know [1:55:31] this programme by its previous [1:55:32] [1:55:32] name, which was the canada [1:55:34] community building fund. [1:55:37] the name was changed by the [1:55:38] programme and the funding [1:55:39] continues in the same way. [1:55:40] consistent with council's historical [1:55:42] historical approach, [1:55:42] administration is recommending [1:55:43] that the county retain 20% or [1:55:46] just over 2.5 million of the regional [1:55:48] regional allocation and to [1:55:50] distribute 80% or just under 3.8 million to [1:55:53] 3.8 million to the seven local [1:55:54] municipalities located based on [1:55:57] the 2021 census data as shown in [1:55:58] appendix a, attached to the [1:56:00] report. [1:56:00] so the funding continues to [1:56:03] support eligible community [1:56:04] infrastructure projects across [1:56:05] [1:56:05] the county and local [1:56:06] municipalities. [1:56:06] the allocation remains unchanged [1:56:11] [1:56:11] to 2025 but looking ahead, the [1:56:14] [1:56:14] county has received future [1:56:16] allocations in both 2027 and 2028 as [1:56:19] 2028 as anticipated. And [1:56:21] and with that I will take any [1:56:23] questions. >> speaker-09: [1:56:24] >> speaker-09: thank you [1:56:24] melissa, questions for our [1:56:26] treasurer? [1:56:26] >> thank you warden question, why [1:56:33] why is it still based on the 2020 [1:56:36] 2020 census? [1:56:36] will that kick in next year [1:56:37] annually? Or [1:56:37] or do they anticipate when the [1:56:39] [1:56:39] updated census numbers will come [1:56:41] [1:56:41] out? [1:56:41] >> that's just historically what [1:56:45] we have used here. [1:56:49] so we have used that when we do [1:56:52] this [1:56:52] this report to council again, to [1:56:53] [1:56:53] make the choice. [1:56:54] >> very good, thank you. [1:56:57] >> no further questions, then there [1:56:59] there is a recommendation that [1:57:00] [1:57:00] council approve the report and [1:57:03] the [1:57:03] the accompanying bylaw [1:57:05] number 2026-30 at the [1:57:07] appropriate time. [1:57:09] moved by councillor rogers [1:57:11] seconded by councillor gibb. [1:57:14] and thumbs up from councillor [1:57:23] mcnamara. [1:57:23] and that is carried. [1:57:32] next we have the establishment [1:57:37] [1:57:37] of a state of good repair, life [1:57:39] [1:57:39] cycle reserve, again coming back [1:57:40] to our treasurer. [1:57:43] director of finance, melissa [1:57:44] ryan. [1:57:44] melissa? [1:57:44] >> thank you warden, through [1:57:47] uinta county council. [1:57:49] this report establishes the [1:57:51] framework needed before 2027 budget [1:57:53] budget deliberations begin in [1:57:55] december. [1:57:55] so administration is [1:57:57] recommending the creation of a [1:57:58] dedicated state of good repair [1:58:00] [1:58:00] life cycle reserve for county [1:58:02] roads, bridges and culverts. [1:58:03] this does not require council to contribute [1:58:05] contribute any new funding [1:58:06] today. [1:58:06] the reserve would be established [1:58:08] [1:58:08] with a zero balance so there is [1:58:10] no [1:58:10] no impact to the 2026 budget. [1:58:12] historically, the county has levy funded [1:58:14] levy funded the state of good [1:58:15] repair work directly through the [1:58:17] [1:58:17] annual capital budget. [1:58:18] going forward, the intent is to [1:58:21] [1:58:21] continue levy funding the work [1:58:22] but [1:58:22] but instead of allocating those [1:58:23] dollars [1:58:23] dollars to be spent in a single [1:58:26] [1:58:26] year, the funding would be [1:58:27] transferred into this reserve [1:58:28] and drawn from as eligible rehab [1:58:31] [1:58:31] projects moving forward. [1:58:32] so if there are funds remaining [1:58:34] at the [1:58:34] at the end of the year, they would [1:58:35] would stay in the reserve and be [1:58:36] available to support future [1:58:37] state of good repair needs. [1:58:39] this gives the county more [1:58:40] flexibility to manage timing, inflation [1:58:42] inflation and larger rehab [1:58:43] projects that might not fit neatly [1:58:45] neatly within one budget year. [1:58:47] [1:58:47] it also provides flexibility if [1:58:49] urgent state of repair projects [1:58:51] arise [1:58:51] arise during the year. [1:58:52] particularly where there are safety [1:58:53] safety concerns or where delaying [1:58:55] delaying the work could lead to [1:58:55] higher long term costs. [1:58:57] so rather than relying only on [1:59:01] the [1:59:01] the dedicated source of funding [1:59:02] to [1:59:02] to respond to those needs -- [1:59:03] rather than relying on the funding [1:59:05] funding available in a single [1:59:06] budget year, the reserve gives [1:59:08] us a little [1:59:08] us a little bit more flexibility [1:59:11] [1:59:11] if there are reserve funds to [1:59:14] use. [1:59:14] overall creating the reserve improves [1:59:16] improves transparency, it allows [1:59:18] council [1:59:18] council to see dedicated funding [1:59:19] for [1:59:19] for existing road infrastructure [1:59:21] [1:59:21] aspects it supports greater [1:59:23] flexibility when urgent rehab [1:59:25] needs arrive and helps ensure [1:59:26] any unspent funds remain [1:59:28] available for future roadway [1:59:29] rehab, rather than being treated [1:59:31] [1:59:31] as a one year allocation. [1:59:33] with that I'd be happy to answer [1:59:34] [1:59:34] any questions. [1:59:35] >> thank you melissa. [1:59:37] questions for the treasurer? [1:59:39] seeing none, the recommendation [1:59:41] [1:59:41] is that council receive the [1:59:43] report as information and that [1:59:45] by law 2026-32 be approved at the [1:59:47] the appropriate time. [1:59:51] moved by councillor gibb, [1:59:53] seconded by councillor prue. [1:59:55] any discussion? [1:59:57] then I will ask you to vote [1:59:59] electronically. >> [2:00:01] >> madam warden, if I may? [2:00:03] I just want to add that this is [2:00:08] [2:00:08] great fiscal -- being fiscally [2:00:11] responsible. [2:00:11] it is a great opportunity for us [2:00:14] to build proper reserves. [2:00:16] because we need to be ready for the [2:00:18] the unexpected. [2:00:19] in particular when we see what [2:00:21] [2:00:21] is happening with that climate [2:00:23] change [2:00:23] change and so forth. [2:00:24] so kudos to the administration [2:00:26] [2:00:26] for bringing this forward and I think [2:00:29] think it is a well thought out [2:00:31] [2:00:31] practice and long coming. [2:00:34] >> I take it you were in favour [2:00:38] ? [2:00:38] >> 110%. >> [2:00:42] >> thank you. [2:00:44] vote. [2:00:56] vote. [2:00:56] that's carried now, thank you. [2:01:11] [2:01:11] no matters of unfinished [2:01:13] business. [2:01:13] on to new business. [2:01:15] I have the public reporting of [2:01:16] the closed meeting. [2:01:17] that is that council met in a [2:01:19] closed meeting at 5:00 p.m. This [2:01:20] [2:01:20] evening as permitted and [2:01:22] pursuant to section 2392f, the [2:01:25] municipal act to receive [2:01:26] information related to the [2:01:27] report number 260805, legal [2:01:33] advice regarding affordable [2:01:35] housing. [2:01:35] and also receive information [2:01:43] related to a verbal report [2:01:46] pertaining to 2974.2, bargaining [2:01:49] [2:01:49] update for august fifth. [2:01:51] council was provided with legal [2:01:52] advice and with information [2:01:53] about the bargaining process. [2:01:57] next we have governance review. [2:02:01] [2:02:01] warden and deputy warden [2:02:03] election process. [2:02:03] and at the july 15th, 2026 [2:02:06] regular meeting of council, councillor [2:02:09] councillor shepley brought forth [2:02:10] a [2:02:10] a notice of motion. [2:02:11] would you like to read your [2:02:12] motion? [2:02:12] >> sure. [2:02:13] whereas the offices of warden [2:02:17] and deputy warden are separate, [2:02:18] [2:02:18] leadership positions of county [2:02:21] [2:02:21] council, and whereas the selection [2:02:23] selection process should be [2:02:24] clear, fair and transparent for all [2:02:25] all members of council, and [2:02:27] whereas a member seeking [2:02:29] election as warden should not [2:02:30] also be eligible to seek [2:02:32] election as deputy warden during [2:02:33] the same election process. [2:02:35] now therefore be it resolved that [2:02:37] that administration be directed [2:02:38] [2:02:38] to bring forward as part of its [2:02:40] procedural bylaw review and update [2:02:43] update recommendations for council's [2:02:45] council's consideration options [2:02:46] [2:02:46] for suggested amendments to [2:02:49] section 3.1 of the county's [2:02:52] procedure bylaw, to take effect [2:02:53] prior to the inaugural meeting of [2:02:55] of the next term of county [2:02:56] council, and with one of the potential [2:02:59] potential amendments reflecting [2:03:01] [2:03:01] the following. [2:03:02] the nomination. [2:03:03] for both warden and deputy warden [2:03:05] warden closing before voting [2:03:07] begins, a member of county [2:03:08] council can stand for election [2:03:10] for either warden or deputy [2:03:11] warden but not both, and there [2:03:14] shall [2:03:14] shall be a single ballot for [2:03:15] both the position of warden and [2:03:17] [2:03:17] deputy warden, such as the [2:03:19] voting takes place at the same [2:03:20] time [2:03:20] time for both positions. [2:03:23] number for, no member may be [2:03:25] elected to the position of [2:03:26] warden or deputy warden without [2:03:28] [2:03:28] securing major support from the [2:03:30] [2:03:30] members present. [2:03:32] be it further resolved that this [2:03:38] [2:03:38] potential amendment be presented [2:03:39] [2:03:39] to council for approval as part [2:03:41] of [2:03:41] of the procedure bylaw amendment [2:03:43] recommendations and a part of the [2:03:44] the governance review report, [2:03:45] prior to the inaugural meeting of the [2:03:47] of the next term of council. [2:03:49] >> moved by councillor shepley, [2:03:51] looking [2:03:51] looking for a second. [2:03:55] councillor deyong? [2:03:56] any discussion? [2:03:59] councillor shepley? [2:04:00] >> I will explain briefly my [2:04:04] reasoning behind this notice of [2:04:05] motion. [2:04:05] this notice of motion is not [2:04:07] about any individual, nor is it [2:04:09] [2:04:09] about any past election. [2:04:10] it is about strengthening our [2:04:12] process going forward and [2:04:13] ensuring every candidate is [2:04:14] treated fairly under the same [2:04:15] set of rules. [2:04:17] the position of warden and [2:04:18] deputy warden are separate and [2:04:20] important [2:04:20] important leadership roles. [2:04:21] each carry significant [2:04:23] responsibilities and I believe [2:04:26] each [2:04:26] each deserves a candidate who has [2:04:27] has made a clear commitment to [2:04:29] seeking that office. [2:04:30] I also believe that these are two distinct [2:04:34] two distinct leadership [2:04:35] positions and that candidates [2:04:36] should enter the process having [2:04:37] [2:04:37] decided which office they wish [2:04:39] [2:04:39] to seek. [2:04:40] running for one office and then [2:04:42] if [2:04:42] if unsuccessful immediately [2:04:43] seeking the other can create the [2:04:44] perception that the second [2:04:47] office is simply the fallback [2:04:49] position. [2:04:49] I do not believe that is fair to [2:04:50] the office of the deputy warden [2:04:52] [2:04:52] or those committed to seeking [2:04:54] that position from the beginning [2:04:57]  beginning. [2:04:57]  beginning. [2:04:57] I believe that creates an unfair [2:05:07] [2:05:07] playing field working for deputy [2:05:09] [2:05:09] warden for the outset. [2:05:10] the purpose of this motion is [2:05:12] simple. [2:05:12] everyone should make the same [2:05:13] commitment at the same time [2:05:15] under the same rules. [2:05:16] this motion doesn't change who [2:05:18] [2:05:18] can run, every eligible member [2:05:20] still has the same opportunity [2:05:21] [2:05:21] to seek either office. [2:05:23] what it changes is when the [2:05:24] decision is made, every [2:05:26] candidate would make that choice [2:05:29] before [2:05:29] before nominations close, rather [2:05:30] than after another election has [2:05:32] [2:05:32] already taken place. [2:05:34] I also believe this strengthens [2:05:36] [2:05:36] public confidence in the [2:05:37] process, good governance isn't [2:05:38] just [2:05:38] just about doing the right thing, [2:05:39] thing, it is also about avoiding [2:05:43] processes [2:05:43] processes that can create the [2:05:44] assessment that some have [2:05:46] opportunities that others do [2:05:47] not. [2:05:47] even if some would move from one [2:05:50] race to another, the best [2:05:51] intentions the public can still [2:05:52] perceive it as getting two [2:05:54] chances at leadership. [2:05:55] what everyone else receives only [2:05:57] one [2:05:57] one opportunity. [2:05:57] whether that perception is fair [2:05:59] or not, it can affect the [2:06:01] confidence in the process. [2:06:02] by closing nominations for both [2:06:04] positions at the same time, [2:06:06] every candidate begins on equal [2:06:08] [2:06:08] footing. [2:06:08] there is one nomination. [2:06:10] , one opportunity to choose and one [2:06:12] one set of rules that applies [2:06:14] equally to everyone. [2:06:17] that encourages candidates to make a [2:06:19] make a thoughtful decision that [2:06:20] makes an office they wish to [2:06:22] serve. [2:06:22] it changes when they choose. [2:06:37] then we strengthen the integrity [2:06:39] of [2:06:39] of the process, reinforce public [2:06:41] [2:06:41] confidence in the election, for [2:06:42] both the warden and deputy [2:06:44] warden. [2:06:44] the public expects leadership positions at [2:06:46] positions at the county council [2:06:50] [2:06:50] beyond reproach. [2:06:52] even if it works, improving [2:06:54] confidence in the process is a [2:06:55] worthwhile goal, thank you. [2:06:58] >> thank you. [2:07:00] comments, questions? [2:07:02] councillor akpata? [2:07:05] >> through you madam warden, [2:07:06] love it, no issues, no problems. [2:07:09] [2:07:09] just one question and I want to make [2:07:10] make sure I understand this. [2:07:12] just me being me. [2:07:13] without securing majority [2:07:14] support from members present, I [2:07:18] have a scenario where there is [2:07:19] three of us [2:07:19] three of us in a room, thus the [2:07:22] majority of members present, no [2:07:23] one [2:07:23] one has called quorum, I just want [2:07:24] want to make sure that -- is [2:07:26] there any other bylaw or rule [2:07:28] when I seek? Because [2:07:29] because all of a sudden it is a [2:07:30] majority of members present, to [2:07:32] [2:07:32] me that changes the voting and [2:07:34] [2:07:34] that changes the rule right off [2:07:36] the bat. [2:07:38] and I have a problem with that, [2:07:39] I [2:07:39] I can't support this. [2:07:40] just looking for clarification [2:07:43] . [2:07:43] >> the way that this is worded [2:07:46] [2:07:46] is the majority of members [2:07:48] present. We [2:07:48] we would not have a meeting if [2:07:51] there [2:07:51] there was not a quorum of [2:07:53] council. [2:07:53] it is necessary to have the [2:07:55] meeting, that is eight members [2:07:59] . [2:07:59] >> like I said, I always -- I. [2:08:06] just want [2:08:06] just want to make sure that the [2:08:08] worst-case [2:08:08] worst-case scenario wasn't [2:08:09] something we would accidentally [2:08:10] [2:08:10] do, that's all. [2:08:13] >> councillor meloche? >> [2:08:15] >> that was actually my [2:08:16] question. [2:08:16] just with the wording because the [2:08:18] the wording makes it sound like [2:08:19] you have [2:08:19] you have to have a majority [2:08:20] support, not just the majority [2:08:22] people in the room. I [2:08:23] I want to make sure we are not [2:08:24] [2:08:24] putting in language that all of [2:08:26] a sudden [2:08:26] a sudden we get these results and it [2:08:27] and it is not the majority of [2:08:28] people who voted for that one [2:08:30] person, therefore it doesn't [2:08:31] count. [2:08:31] that was my concern. [2:08:33] because the way it was worded [2:08:34] kind of leaves it -- I. Don't [2:08:36] know if there is a way to clarify [2:08:37] clarify it so it is clear, but [2:08:38] that [2:08:38] that was my thought. [2:08:41] >> through you warden, the way [2:08:43] that the motion is worded is [2:08:45] that we present options for council. [2:08:47] that we present options for council. [2:08:47] so we do have a report in the works [2:08:49] works that will be coming [2:08:50] forward to council based on those [2:08:53] those governance interviews that [2:08:54] we did with each of your [2:08:57] municipalities in members and [2:08:58] alternates over the course of [2:09:00] the past several months. [2:09:01] through those conversations, [2:09:03] there were several [2:09:04] recommendations and opposing [2:09:06] viewpoints, at times, however, [2:09:09] [2:09:09] we have come up with several [2:09:11] recommendations that will be [2:09:12] presented to council and we will [2:09:13] [2:09:13] work in some options to consider [2:09:16] [2:09:16] what councillor shepley has [2:09:18] proposed here. [2:09:19] if this motion carries, that is [2:09:21] we do have other recommendations [2:09:23] [2:09:23] that are related to these [2:09:25] things. [2:09:25] but council will have [2:09:27] consideration of those at that [2:09:27] [2:09:27] time of the report. [2:09:31] >> councillor prue? [2:09:33] >> just a question, does any [2:09:36] other county council in ontario [2:09:39] do as being suggested now? [2:09:41] it has always been my [2:09:43] observation that there is a second [2:09:47] second round. It's [2:09:47] it's not that this is a whole [2:09:49] election, going back to the people [2:09:50] people with a whole new ballot [2:09:52] [2:09:52] system and two weeks later to [2:09:54] choose the second position. [2:09:56] this is all of us sitting around [2:09:58] a [2:09:58] a table, choose one and then all [2:09:59] [2:09:59] of us sitting around the table [2:10:00] [2:10:00] and choosing two. [2:10:03] can you tell me, does any other [2:10:06] council do [2:10:06] council do it the way that this [2:10:07] [2:10:07] is being suggested? [2:10:10] >> through you warden, in [2:10:12] response to councillors [2:10:13] question, I have spoken to the [2:10:15] [2:10:15] clerks at the upper tier [2:10:17] municipalities in ontario, we do [2:10:19] meet [2:10:19] meet routinely to discuss [2:10:21] various things. [2:10:21] but this subject has come up [2:10:23] recently in other municipalities [2:10:25] [2:10:25] as well. And [2:10:25] and through our conversations, [2:10:26] [2:10:26] again with those governments [2:10:28] interviews, I did raise the [2:10:29] question with the other clerks. [2:10:31] if you can imagine, there are [2:10:33] several dozen municipalities, [2:10:35] there are several dozen ways [2:10:36] that they do it. [2:10:39] so some municipalities don't [2:10:41] elect a deputy warden at all. It [2:10:43] it is an appointed position by [2:10:45] the elected warden. [2:10:47] some municipalities do their [2:10:49] inaugural meeting, elect the [2:10:50] warden and at a later date, [2:10:51] elect a deputy warden. [2:10:54] some elect that same night, the way [2:10:55] way that we do it and have done [2:10:57] it [2:10:57] it for many years. [2:11:00] there is many ways to do this [2:11:02] across the province in the upper [2:11:04] tier [2:11:04] tier municipalities and through the [2:11:07] the analysis of those different [2:11:08] [2:11:08] ways to do it, I think that we [2:11:10] [2:11:10] have come up and based on the [2:11:12] recommendation here, we have come [2:11:13] come up with some solutions that [2:11:15] [2:11:15] will work if council has an appetite [2:11:17] appetite to change from [2:11:18] status quo. [2:11:20] >> again, having had that [2:11:23] answered, I'm not going to lose [2:11:25] any [2:11:25] any sleep over this, whether it [2:11:26] goes one way or the other, [2:11:28] really. [2:11:28] but I guess I come from the [2:11:31] union movement years and years [2:11:33] [2:11:33] ago. [2:11:33] things were decided at [2:11:35] convention. [2:11:35] and it was absolutely [2:11:38] commonplace to elect the [2:11:40] president of the union and then [2:11:43] [2:11:43] to elect any number of executive [2:11:46] officers, should be two or three [2:11:47] or four, vice presidents. [2:11:50] and people wouldn't just drop down. [2:11:52] and people wouldn't just drop down. [2:11:52] I don't ever remember anybody thinking [2:11:54] thinking that was an unfair [2:11:56] process. [2:11:56] I don't see how it is an unfair [2:12:01] process. [2:12:01] process. [2:12:01] I do see that some people will look [2:12:03] look at it and say that's not [2:12:05] fair because this person didn't [2:12:09] win [2:12:09] win when given a second chance, [2:12:10] but [2:12:10] but everybody can put their name [2:12:12] [2:12:12] in. [2:12:12] so I don't know, I don't see the [2:12:16] necessity for it. [2:12:17] but as I said, I won't lose one [2:12:20] minute of sleep if it passes. [2:12:22] okay, thank you. [2:12:25] >> deputy warden? [2:12:28] >> thank you and through you [2:12:29] warden, I want to thank councillor [2:12:32] councillor shepley, his proposal [2:12:35] [2:12:35] is just making what we built [2:12:36] around this table the next step [2:12:41] . [2:12:41] we are not mayors and deputy mayors, if [2:12:44] mayors, if you look at who runs [2:12:46] [2:12:46] usually, deputy mayors don't [2:12:49] even run for warden or deputy [2:12:51] warden, that is the past [2:12:52] practice. You [2:12:52] you can look at the past 25, 30 years. [2:12:57] you can look at the past 25, 30 years. [2:12:57] it has always been the mayor's. [2:12:59] [2:12:59] so since we are making this step [2:13:01] [2:13:01] and we have made the steps, we [2:13:02] are all county councillors. [2:13:05] choosing to choose to run for warden [2:13:06] warden is a different job from [2:13:08] [2:13:08] deputy warden. [2:13:09] and the fact that you are [2:13:10] choosing the warden the way the [2:13:14] motion [2:13:14] motion reads is fair. [2:13:15] you will be busy, you have this [2:13:18] level of deputy warden you fill [2:13:19] [2:13:19] in, that is a different role. [2:13:23] so you choose, I think it is the [2:13:25] democratic [2:13:25] democratic way of moving forward [2:13:26] [2:13:26] with this council. [2:13:27] we are all county councillors. [2:13:30] [2:13:30] it avoids -- if you're a deputy [2:13:33] mayor, don't [2:13:33] mayor, don't you dare run for [2:13:34] deputy warden, it takes that away. [2:13:35] deputy warden, it takes that away. [2:13:35] I like the motion, it cleans it [2:13:37] up [2:13:37] up and it moves us forward as a [2:13:39] unified council. [2:13:40] and I will be supporting the [2:13:41] motion. [2:13:41] >> councillor bondi? [2:13:45] >> thank you warden macdonald. [2:13:46] [2:13:46] I would be interested in seeing [2:13:48] if any other municipalities have [2:13:50] [2:13:50] a two year mark where they allow [2:13:53] [2:13:53] council to have another election. [2:13:55] council to have another election. [2:13:55] that is something I heard this [2:13:57] [2:13:57] term. [2:13:57] and the other thing -- it's too [2:14:00] bad [2:14:00] bad we don't engage the members [2:14:01] of the [2:14:01] of the public in some form [2:14:02] because many of the members of [2:14:04] the public would love to be [2:14:05] engaged. [2:14:05] I know that is not possible, but [2:14:08] I'm just saying I wish the [2:14:08] public could have a say in who [2:14:10] would [2:14:10] would be their warden. [2:14:12] the other thing is, I did bring [2:14:14] this up in my governance [2:14:15] meeting, I don't really want to [2:14:16] have [2:14:16] have to write a name, because my handwriting [2:14:18] handwriting is so atrocious that [2:14:19] no matter who the scrutineers [2:14:21] are, they will be able to tell [2:14:22] [2:14:22] who I voted for. [2:14:25] so I would like a safeguard in [2:14:27] place [2:14:27] place so that my sloppy [2:14:29] handwriting is confidential and [2:14:33] at this [2:14:33] at this point, I think we are [2:14:34] just getting information to look at [2:14:36] at changing our procedure bylaw [2:14:37] and I will support the motion [2:14:39] tonight, I hope that we get a [2:14:40] lot more information off what other [2:14:42] other towns are doing. [2:14:43] there could be some other [2:14:44] tweaks, some other best practices. [2:14:46] tweaks, some other best practices. [2:14:46] I like out-of-the-box thinking [2:14:48] [2:14:48] and I like transparency in elections. [2:14:50] and I like transparency in elections. [2:14:50] the one caution I have is say a [2:14:54] warden is a trump and the deputy [2:14:56] warden has their name in and they don't [2:14:57] they don't want to work with [2:14:58] that trump, so there is that [2:15:01] caution of pairing a nonsuitable [2:15:05] [2:15:05] warden, deputy warden match. [2:15:07] if they are kind of going in at [2:15:08] the same time. [2:15:10] that is something that I thought [2:15:12] I [2:15:12] I should bring up. [2:15:13] but I look forward to furthering [2:15:14] the [2:15:14] the discussion and thank [2:15:16] administration for working on [2:15:17] this. [2:15:17] >> anyone else? [2:15:21] in that case then, I will ask [2:15:25] you to vote electronically. [2:15:28] councillor mcnamara? [2:15:33] in favour? [2:15:36] and that is carried, thank you [2:15:47] . [2:15:47] any other matters of new business [2:15:48] business to bring forward this [2:15:50] [2:15:50] evening? [2:15:50] councillor deyong? [2:15:55] >> thank you warden. [2:15:56] it has come to my attention that there [2:15:58] there is a safety concern at the [2:16:00] [2:16:00] intersection of the provincial [2:16:01] [2:16:01] highway number 3 and county road [2:16:04] 29. [2:16:04] 29. [2:16:04] I did contact administration, [2:16:07] thank you for jumping on it [2:16:07] right away. [2:16:08] there were three accidents this [2:16:10] [2:16:10] week. [2:16:10] and comments on my social media [2:16:12] [2:16:12] are accurate, there were several [2:16:13] [2:16:13] close calls. [2:16:14] I'm just wondering if [2:16:15] administration has any update and [2:16:17] and if there is anything you can [2:16:18] tell us tonight about that. [2:16:21] >> marissa? [2:16:22] >> through you madam warden, [2:16:25] yes. [2:16:25] thank you councillor for the question. [2:16:27] thank you councillor for the question. [2:16:27] we have connected with the [2:16:29] ministry of transportation and [2:16:30] shared our concerns. [2:16:32] they have responded back and [2:16:34] acknowledged this and they have [2:16:36] committed that [2:16:36] committed that they are [2:16:36] undertaking a review of the [2:16:37] traffic patterns and signal [2:16:38] timings and will provide us an [2:16:40] [2:16:40] update back when they have [2:16:41] completed that review. [2:16:43] >> thank you. [2:16:44] maybe when you are conversing [2:16:46] with them, people are saying [2:16:48] that this similar issue is at other [2:16:50] other intersections, they are [2:16:50] just not as busy. [2:16:51] maybe they are not having [2:16:53] accidents but they are still [2:16:53] having close calls. [2:16:55] maybe they can take a look -- they [2:16:56] they are so wide now, with a road [2:16:59] road closure. [2:17:01] with a review of three or four [2:17:02] and that stretch could happen, [2:17:04] [2:17:04] thank you. [2:17:04] >> through you madam warden, certainly [2:17:06] certainly they have noted that. [2:17:07] [2:17:07] because so many intersections are [2:17:09] are closed and there are changes [2:17:10] during [2:17:10] during construction, they will [2:17:11] [2:17:11] be under review, we will certainly [2:17:13] certainly follow up with that. [2:17:15] [2:17:15] >> anyone else? [2:17:16] new business? [2:17:17] seeing none, onto adoption of [2:17:19] bylaws. There [2:17:19] there are four bylaws for council's [2:17:21] council's consideration this evening. [2:17:23] council's consideration this evening. [2:17:23] they will be read by the county [2:17:25] [2:17:25] clerk. [2:17:25] >> thank you warden. [2:17:29] bylaw number 2026-21 being a [2:17:31] bylaw to authorize the execution [2:17:33] of an [2:17:33] of an agreement between the [2:17:34] corporation of the county of [2:17:37] essex and khanda nand inc. [2:17:42] bylaw number 2026-30 being a [2:17:45] bylaw to authorize the [2:17:46] allocation of funds to the lower [2:17:47] tier [2:17:47] tier municipalities in the [2:17:48] county of essex, being the towns [2:17:50] of [2:17:50] of amherstburg, essex, [2:17:51] kingsville, lasalle, tecumseh in the [2:17:53] the municipalities of lakeshore [2:17:53] and [2:17:53] and leamington in accordance [2:17:54] with section 5.3 of the [2:17:56] agreement with the association [2:17:58] of [2:17:58] of municipalities of ontario, building [2:17:59] building community strong fund. [2:18:00] [2:18:00] bylaw number 2026-32 being a [2:18:02] bylaw to establish the state of [2:18:03] good repair life cycle reserve. [2:18:06] [2:18:06] bylaw number 2026-33 being a [2:18:08] bylaw to confirm the proceedings [2:18:10] of the [2:18:10] of the council of the [2:18:11] corporation of the county of [2:18:12] essex, regular and closed [2:18:13] meetings for august fifth, 2026. [2:18:17] [2:18:17] >> thank you kate. There [2:18:18] there is a recommendation that [2:18:20] [2:18:20] bylaws 2026-21, 2026-30, 2026-32 [2:18:27] [2:18:27] and 2026-33 be given three [2:18:29] readings, and having been ready [2:18:30] [2:18:30] first, second and third time, be [2:18:32] [2:18:32] finally passed and enacted. [2:18:34] moved by councillor shepley, [2:18:38] seconded by councillor [2:18:39] wallerstedt. [2:18:39] any discussion? [2:18:41] I will ask you to vote [2:18:43] electronically please. [2:18:46] >> and gary is in favour? [2:19:02] >> and that is carried. [2:19:07] I see gary gave us a thumbs up [2:19:10] . [2:19:10] notices of motions to be [2:19:13] introduced for august fifth, 2026. [2:19:17] introduced for august fifth, 2026. [2:19:17] none? [2:19:17] none? [2:19:17] thank you! [2:19:23] all matters of business have [2:19:25] been addressed, and it was a [2:19:28] really good meeting, thank you [2:19:30] everyone. [2:19:30] everyone. [2:19:30] with that, the recommendation is [2:19:33] [2:19:33] essex county council meeting for [2:19:34] august fifth, 2026 be adjourned [2:19:38] at [2:19:38] at 8:30 p.m. [2:19:40] moved by councillor deyong -- [2:19:42] thank you councillor [2:19:43] macnamara. [2:19:43] anybody want to discuss the [2:19:46] motion? [2:19:46] seeing none all in favour by a [2:19:49] show of hands? [2:19:50] that carries unanimously, [2:19:51] thank you, good night!