Good evening, councilors, staff, resident of line, river and the
press. I'd like to call. The meeting to order for
Tuesday, May 21, at 06:00 p.m. And we begin tonight's
meeting with the acknowledgment of the land on which we
are gathered is in the traditional territories of the initialobics,
specifically mississauga. We would also like to acknowledge the North's
channel matey council. Ruse Miguette to thank indigenous people for
taking care of this land. From thai memorial, we are
called to treat this sacred land. Its plants, animals, stories
and its peoples. With honor and respect, we commit to
the shared goal of truth and reconciliation. Prior to beginning
this evening's agenda, I would ask that each counselor answer
the roll call. When I call your name. Deputy Mayor
Paula Summers. Present. Councilor Betty Annbark, President, councilor. Jim Dunbar?
Present. Councilor Jennifer Jennifer Pastoro? Present. Councilor Dan Mittow? Present.
And Councilor Kat. Katie Whitlock sends her regrets. I want
to bring to your attention that Cornelia Servo's roots, rocks
and reflections. Art exhibit is displayed at the timber Village
gallery. Cornella has captured a beautiful reflection of nature. In
her paintings, and they are truly exceptional art. Definitely worth
the visit to the blind river art gallery and. Again.
That's at Timber Village Museum. The blind River Marine park
is now open seven days. Per week from 08:00 a.m.
To 06:00 p.m. Sellers beach washroom is also open seven
days a week from eight till six. And construction is
moving along late on schedule. At Lake Matnanda. Thank you
to everyone for your patience while cruise work to beat
our busy season. The fire rating is moderate to high
in our area. Please ensure for everyone's safety that. You
are not lighting fires on the trails or on vacant
lots. You can get updates on the permits related to
lighting fires via voyant alert or visit the town website.
And special thanks to all of you who participated in
cleanup. Ontario action on litter on May 14. Special thanks
to those who are using our bear wise refuge containers.
Our summer students have started training please ensure you're kind
to it. Our newest team members who are very excited
about working for our municip. Municipality this summer. And just
a reminder to our viewers that tonight's agenda reports and
recordings of all meetings are on the town's website under
meetings. Now turning to the agenda. Are there any declarations
of pecuniary interest, Deputy mayor Summers? Yes, mayor hagman. I
have a pecuniary interest. During the closed agenda 1.3.1 and
it's perceived pecuniary interest. Thank you. Thank you. And are
there any other conflicts of interest? Seeing none. We will
move on. We have Mr. Ben Wisener. I'm sorry. One
ahead of myself. Then I obviously want you to come
up to the. There's your heads up. For the adortions
of the minute. Could I have a mover in a
second or. Please. And this is moved by deputy mayor
Summers and seconded by Councilor Dan Mittow. Be it resolved
that council adopt the minutes of the regular council meeting
of April 15, 2024, as presented. All in favor with
this motion, please vote.
I'm not getting anything.
Since our system is slow, could I have a show
of hands? All in favor? And that vote is carried.
Thank you. All right. Now we come to our delegations,
and Mr. Wisener is here to represent. The community of
neighbors on Servon area, and I will remind the public
that there will be no. Decision from council at tonight's
meeting. This is purely a presentation. Thanks. Go ahead.
Turn it on at the bottom, then. Hello. Mayor Hanman,
councilors, thank you for allowing me the opportunity to speak
to again regarding sirvon. Park. I'd like to start by
revisiting the April 15 meeting, a comment that was made
at that meeting by a counselor that she thought council
had jumped the gun on making a decision to dismantle
the park without having enough information. And I thank you
for that comment, councilor Betty Ann, because you're absolutely right,
council. Did jump the gun. Council decisions should be informed
decisions whether they're correct or not. Making an uninformed rasp
decision to close a playground that's been there for. 65
years. Was not okay. Also want to mention our counselor,
Jim Dunbar, was youngly voted in favor of keeping the
park. Thank you, chimp. Deputy mayor summers mentioned about the
study cost. Well, it was actually quite simple. And at
no cost to find out what kind of turtle we
were dealing with. Council could have done that, and they
would have been, in this case, been better. Informed. The
extent of my knowledge about turtles prior to this was
that. They're pretty slow moving. Actually. They're quite fascinating creatures.
Our indigenous neighbors held turtled in high regard. And they
called. The landing. Turtles. The sun turtle. Because of all
the yellow underneath its neck. Turtles have 13 squares on
their back. That are called scoops. And the number 13
represents. The number of lunar cycles per year. Around the
outer perimeter, there are 828 smaller squares that represent the
number of days of each. Moon cycle. There's eight species
in Ontario that call at home. Unfortunately, you're all at
risk. Road mortality, habitat loss are two major factors in
their decline. We certainly don't want the turtle to lose
their habitat. And we certainly don't want to lose the
park. We need to find some balance. The term in
question is the midline painted turtle, the most common turtle
in material not in danger, but of special concern. To
identify the turtle, I called Kelly James Talic, environmental. This
Tam Kelly James at Digiro. Report. After our initial conversation,
I sent Kelly a picture of the turtle. As for
his email response, he confirmed it was, in fact, A
midland painted turtle, and I think you have a copy
of. His letter there. I'll just go through it briefly.
The turtle's coloration is a bit phaser, but it does
indeed to appear to be a female midland painted turtle,
which is the most common turtle species in northern Ontario.
Then he goes on about turtle nestings and what they
would do to find out about the habitat. Place cameras
there and monitor the cameras for 24 hours a day.
And Midland. Painted turtles are not protected under Ontario's Endangered
Species act. Its nesting sites can qualify as a form
of significant wildlife habitat under Ontario's provincial policy. Statements. He's
attached some diagrams of turtle nesting boxes. If we discover
a turtle nest, we can. Place the box over top.
I have one in my grads. If anybody calls and
say hey. Found an s. I'll be there. So I
rolled back to Kelly and send them a copy of
our diagram of. What we had proposed we do with
the park. Hi, Kelly. Attached to the sketch of the
playground as well as a couple of other photos. Could
we relocate the equipment? And install some turtle exclusion fencing
so it would be a wind for both kids turtles.
He writes back, dear men, without knowing confidentiality of what
species of turtle are present nesting, we don't know the
options available, excluding. Protected turtles from. Accessing used habitat is
treated the same under the Endangered Species act as destroying
the habitat. Now. We're not destroying the habitat. We're leaving
the habitat. We're moving. Our playground equipment. You have to
bear with me here. My wife mixed all my papers
up. Okay. One of our
group members had a sister in law who's a PhD
and associate. Professor at the University of Wealth. I think
you have a copy of her bio. Susan Chibalochi was
born raised in Garden river. We send her some photos
and told her issue. Also, a diagram was sent to
her. What we thought was a win win situation. Doctors.
Chibero's thoughts are that this is very doable, and I
could read her letter if you want. I think you
have like in front of you as well. A letter
was sent to the Ontario Turtle Conservation Center. And then
it says, Hi there. This is a letter from me.
Short version of a long story from Blind river. Instant
turtle was discovered in our small playground in our subdivision.
The playground borders on a river. The municipality wanted to
turn the area into a green space. Two years ago.
But the residents protested and the town renters and agreed
to leave things as is last August. Attorney was observed
nesting close to a place structure. The municipality jumped on
this opportunity and said they will now close the park.
Renewing place structures and turn the area into a field
for total habitat. They didn't even try to identify a
turtle. We are. A small group of area residents have
had an ecologist identifying the species as a midline painted
turtle. My question. Could we relocate the playground? Further away
from the river and saw some turdy restrictive fencing to
ensure safe habitat for kids. And playground. We were all
much in favor of protecting our wildlife habitat. I'm writing
you as I don't know where to turn for help.
If one of your experts could get back to me,
that would be great. One regard. Ben Wisener. Kiss, hug,
kiss, hug. So I get a response. Hi there. Joanne
forwarded me your email. Joanne must be the receptionist. I'm
not sure I can accurately answer without knowing all the
facts, but I'll put together some points that may be
helpful. Adult turtles will often return to exactly the same
location to lay their eggs each year. Turtles have quite
a large range and often extends to many kilometers. They
need this area. To find mates, find nesting sites, find
hibernations on hibernation sites, find the best places to be
at particular times of year. Wetlands may become dry. They
might be some road construction, hammette loss and habitat fragmentation.
Fences, roads, breaking up habitat. Are one of the main
causes for population decline. In all eight species of Ontario
turtles are and all eight species of Ontario turtles are
considered at risk federally. Often there are ways for turtles
and humans to cohabitate with careful planning. So hopefully your
community can find a solution at Suthal. Without knowing the
home range of this particular turtle or the surrounding habitat
details, it's hard to comment on where the playground wouldn't
be best moved to. Sorry not to be much. Help.
Let me know if you have more details, dad, and
I'm happy to offer. Opinions all about Sue. Sue Carstaires.
She's the executive and medical director of the facility. So
we're back again. Hi, sue. Thanks so much for your
time. We appreciate you getting back to me. We're in
the progress. Of progress process of gathering some relevant data
that we can present to our council at their meeting.
On May 21. Prior to the total discovery, municipality had
put up a fence along the shoreline to make the
playground. Compliant. As for government spectrifications, We may now need
to remove. At least eight inches of the fence at
the bottom in order for turtles to come up to
their nesting site. I've attached a copy of the term
playground. The turtle was discovered between the two small. Place
structures. If we move the structures inland again, like here.
There is ample space where the ground is hard packed.
And placed some turtle excluding fences on the sketch. That
would work to ensure the turtle safety and keep their
habitat area. The playground has been there for 65 years.
I played there when I was a kid. Hopefully, we
can find a solution for a win win outcome. So
she writes back. Dear Ben, you sound like a really
nice guy. Let's do lunch. The other approach would be
to get community engagement to make this a great conversation
education project. Putting an espresso on the nest where it
is. While possibly moving the bulk of playground to where
the land is less desirable. Fencing is tricky, but I'll
leave that up to you in the town. The downside?
Is that it's a very visible area, and some sites
have experienced vandalism and poaching of eggs in the past.
There are a lot of citizen science groups bringing up
all over the province. Where the public of all ages
invited to get involved in nest protection. As well as.
I'm sure you want to have time for questions, so
can I just get you to. Wrap up. Thank you.
Are you finished or did you want to see anything
in closing? Pardon. Do you want to say anything in
closing? I want to give council time to ask questions.
Do you want me to finish? 1 minute. Finish up
if you could. And our public presentations are finished. I
didn't want to. The timeline. I got a lot. Of
other stuff to go through. We keep our public presentations
to 15 minutes or we might be here all night,
okay? So, anyway. So it may be a win win
for all concern conservation education is the key to protecting
these species. Just a little bit about turtles. Couple
of minutes of it. Turtles. Turtles take up to 15
years. To reach reproduction age, and it's imperative that nesting
sites be protected. A clutch of eggs contains four to
13 eggs. Houselingers emerge in the late fall, sometimes over
winter. In the nests and emerge the following. Spring estimates
are that less than 2% of. Hatchlings survive to become
adults. Average lifespan is 20 to 30 years. So. Losing
the adult turtle on the highway would be quite devastating.
We're willing to place nesting boxes on any nests that
are found. The only thing we played around attorney area.
Grassy fuel would make our subdivision less appealing and also
have a negative effect on property value. If it was
my call, I moved a present sense. And make it
the total restrict defense, not where you're complying with the
government because you're fencing off the river. And leave some
kind of a gate. So local residents can have access
to the beach area for launching canoes, kayaks, et cetera
and I realize. There costs money. But what price do
you put on children's well being? There's a wealth of
information about coexisting. It's not only possible. That it's quite
doable. Enough about turtles. Let's talk about kids. United nations
conventions in 1989 on the rights of a child was
ratified. Are you going to call the clock? I got
this and this. I didn't know there was time on
it. Is that in our package? Pardon me, is that
in the package that you gave to council that you're
going to. Actually. Well, it's a good thing I didn't
read all that. Henry. So United Nations Convention 1989 on
the right to a child was ratified by 194 countries
in the world. There's only two countries that are excluded.
Ratification is a commitment in other countries to comply. With
the articles of the treaty. Article 31 of that treaty.
Every child has a right to rest. And leisure to
engage in play, in recreational activities appropriate to the age
of the child, and to participate freely. In cultured life
and the arts. For children players more than a fun
activity. Research. Has shown that play contributes to child's healthy
development. Play is so vital that the United nations have
declared it as a basic human right for children. Neighborhood
playgrounds provide structured and unstructured opportunities for play. They provide
a place for children and families to come together and
enjoy physical activity, social interaction and play. Is essential for
a children's physical, social and emotional development. Playground provide a
safe place for children to explore. Interact with peers and
express themselves. They bring people together and create a sense
of belonging. Pleco involves also contribute to positive mental health
by getting kids outside and getting them off their damn
phones. Giving them opportunities to socialize, expend energy, problem solve.
We have a unique opportunity with Chevron park to show
how to cohabitate with other important species living around us.
We can make this a learning opportunity and a positive
for child well being. Now, before I say thank you
and goodbye. I'd. Like to introduce the young lady who's
taking the initiative to write down her thoughts about the
playground and its importance. And she's determining has the courage
to share her thoughts with you this evening. We don't
have any other people on the agenda. I realize that.
This is an eleven year old girl. If you don't
let her speak, Sally. Please welcome Olivia.
Hello, my name is Lizzie Lobby. I really should be
able to see and keep the park. I don't know
if it result in happy to be able to speak
to you guys this evening. The park has been around
for more than 40 years. Both my parents have spent
many hours in their childhood, enjoy and having fun there.
Now, my sister and I have been playing there, enjoying
the outdoors. Whenever we are visiting our grandparents or aunts
and uncles, the park's location is a family. We're hiding
also close to other homes and apartments in the area.
Therefore, other kids will enjoy it. I hope you find
a compromise. I understand keeping parks across a lot of
the town a lot of money, and with the tourist
that's being found there as another reason. To shut down.
The park. But can we find a solution? Come there.
There are so protected colors that we can put over
the turtles. I have brought some photos with me tonight.
The protective cover. The protective covers will protect. The tours
from Scott o'clock range and foxes, which are their main
predators. As for the place, the parks play structure. I
know they cost a lot of money, but is there
anything we can do for a fund laser. I have
done fundraising before selling my mid teen items and handmade
braces with my cousins and only donated to golden birches.
My hope is we can keep the park because one.
Newcomers wonder using the park and have a lot of
fun creating memories there to the park. Is so beautiful
and has a great view. Three the park is in
family neighborhood and is located. Near many other homes and
apartment buildings. Four parks are good for kids mental and
physical health. Play outside may applicate and not be on
the vise is not only healthy and helps us develop,
but it creates memories that will last forever. Thank you
for letting me speak today. I appreciate everyone. Astimi, I
hope you consider taking down this rainbow park. Thank you.
Mr. Wisener. Councilor Pastoro. Thanks, Mayor Hegman. Not so much
a question as a comment. I love your passion. Thank
you so much, Olivia, for presenting today. That was amazing.
The thing is, though, that unfortunately, it appears that there's
misinterpretations. Misnomers and misinformation. That is being shared out there.
When we make motions when we're talking about a park,
sometimes it can be misconstrued. And so there isn't a
reason to vilify counsel when we're making. Very tough decisions.
We want to save the park. That is the main
gist of it. When the turtles were discovered, we had
already purchased all the equipment. To refurbish that park and
save it. And that's not out of the question. So
I just don't want anyone in the audience to think
that we don't. Want kids parks because we do. My
kids love that park. We go over there and play.
There, too. So the thing is that some of the
information in there. Attended to vilify council, so that was
really disappointing because I would love to work to find
solution and solutions. There are many, right? There are many
solutions. So one of the things in there when you
were talking about the report, is that exclusionary fencing? And
unfortunately, I think you misinterpret it when in the report.
The exclusionary fencing according to both of the professionals. They
say that you shouldn't use it because it would equate
to the destruction of the habitat under the Protected Species
Act. So. We want. The fence that is there now
actually would allow for the hatchlings to flow through. So
putting exclusionary fencing there wouldn't be a good idea. But
maybe we can. Look at different designs so that we
could ensure that there is a balance, like something as
simple. As the fact is, leaving the play structure where
it is. And maybe during the seasons when they are
laying their eggs and the hatchlings are just closing. The
park for that little duration, right? So that they can
be protected. Because the problem. Was having. A private lawn
where you have hatchlings is much different than having a
municipality space that has hatchlings. The regulations that are put
on us are much more burdensome, so I just want
you to know that I love your passion. This is
the best I've seen council since I've been on council.
It's. So nice to see democracy in action again. So
just don't think that council is against you. Let's work
together to find solutions, because I think. There are many
ways in which we could save the park and the
turtles. There are. Are there any other comments from council,
councilor Jim Dunbar? Thanks for hagin. Thanks, Olivia. And thanks,
Ben. I'm looking at the letter. From dr. Susan chibl.
And that interests me. She comes up with protecting the
turtle habitat and preserving. It. It looks like there's. Opportunities.
That can be taken. To coexist. With the turtles. But
I'm curious, Ben. It's towards the end, she says, I
understand local residents. Have provided several options to cause this
with the turtles. Were those, there's several options that you
have already mentioned. Or were there several options that we
aren't aware of. No, that was already mentioned. Okay? Because
we have sent her a letter along with a copy
of that. Diagram. And this is some things that we
thought we could do. Like, move that trade mount equipment
back a little bit and down toward. West street and
utilize that land that. Heart packed area. And these are
the troubles, having the sandy beach for the sandy. All
right. And if there's some turtles. That are discovered there,
we'll certainly put up. A turtle protector. Nest protector. I
guess just follow up. Is that. As it was mentioned.
That. This barrier for turtles. You see them in the
Runway? They're working along. It was said that. I read
it differently that if it was for protected turtles like
the Blanding, but not for the painted turtles. They can
be rerouted. It looks like there's some opportunities, then. I
just hope that. We can come to some sort of.
I'm sure we can. The restrictive fencing would be basically
to keep the turtles there and keep the kids over
here, right? That's what they thought. But, yeah, I'm sure
we can work out something together. We're pretty easy get
along with. We just like to be kept in the
gnome. Like when we first, a couple of years ago,
the park was going, I don't want to go on
the clock. A couple of years ago, the park was
going to get shut down. We found out about the
day before and. This go around again. And I realized
we could come to the council meeting, but council meetings
are boring. And I'm shooting from the hip. You don't
have to come to them anymore. They're right there on
your television. Yeah. I don't have television. Yeah. Television. I
just watch. Well, you can put us on your favorites
next time. Tomorrow. My spin is nice out, and I
don't want to sit there and watch. Anyway, thank you,
Mary Hagman. Thank you, Ben, for coming. And I just
want to assure everyone that council also are easy to
get along with, and we're going to try and create
a win win situation for everyone's. Benefit, including the turtles.
So again, thank you for coming tonight. You don't have
to stay and listen to any more boring council. I
totally understand. For sure. I'm making a joke. Anyway, thank
you so much, Ben, and thank you, residents, for coming.
Moving on to the administration ongoing. Projects Update report does
council have any questions of Ms. Coat as it relates
to these projects? Councillor Jim Denver. To Ms. Scribe. Are
there any project. Projects right now. That. We're looking to
fulfill. Of any concern right now to you. Maybe there's
none. Mr. Umar hagman. If we're moving forward with the
park. That's a concern for me. We have no budgeted
funds for that park. So you're looking at probably close
to $20,000 to get started on that. And then the
cost of labor. So that would be a concern of
mine. If council decides to. Place that back in the
budget after removing it. The other concern is we are
working on here on hill that tend to be going
out in June and again, that's a little bit of
an unknown. As you know, once we tear up a
street and we start digging around under there. You never
know what we're going. To find. So I do have
concerns that we may be running over. Knowing that we
kept the budget extremely conservative this year, not to increase
the rate, which is why we did cut some projects.
We couldn't fulfill everything. If we go over, if we
have any concerns with here on hill, that would be
my major. Concern for this year. The other projects that
Ms. Bitner has going on. The roof at the arena.
The Montana landing project. Those two seem to be running
smoothly so far. And we hope to handle those within
the budget. We do have a few concerns with the
boom camp launch in the design that we initially created.
We came in at over 600, close to $700,000, which
was way over what we had there. So we're looking
at rejigging that project to continue with it, but. Again.
We're restricted to budget. Is the boom camp launch. Is
that still? Coal with Mfn. That's correct. That's a project
that we are working together with MFN. MFN was successful
in funding, so we are working within the parameters of
the funding agreement. Seeing. No other questions. 7.2 our CA
clerk presented a report relive streaming of council and committee
meetings policy. And could I have a move for in
a second, or please, on this motion? This is moved
by Councilor Jim Dunbar, seconded by councilor Betty Ann Dunbar,
be it. Resolved that council adopted live streaming of council
and committee meetings policy as presented. Are there any questions?
On this. Councilor Posterero. Thank you, Mayor Hickman. Just with
the live streaming. We're shifting to an escribe. Live streaming
versus YouTube. Is that accurate? And. Is there a price
disparity in the two different modes of streaming? I'll just
further question to Ms. Walsh. That's her project. Do you,
Mayor Hagman, since we've been at the table. We have
been streaming live. Online, so the cost. Is already built
into our package. There is no additional cost. This is
just a policy stating that if something, the Gremlins take
over. That the recorded minutes are the recorded minutes. Not
the video. Ms. Scott thank you, Mary. To elaborate on
that, so if we do go down. There could be
the potential of people saying that they were not able.
To have a record of the meeting because the video
did not record. That has been happening throughout the province.
So the recommendation through some training that Ms. Welsh did
take was to create a policy that would further elaborate
that the minutes of the meeting are the record of
the meeting. Councilor Jim Nunberg. And if we were to
go down. Ms Scott. Would this year be available? On
the. Regular. Minutes of the meeting. Or someone's questioning what
was going on at the meeting, does that not eventually
show up? On the talent website. Through you, Mahagma? Yes.
Through the record of the meeting, which would be the
minutes. Okay, I will call for a vote on this
motion, please. Again. The vote is in
progress. Did you get in? There you go. All right.
And for the rest of council, all in favor with
this motion? And that motion is? Carried. Thank you. The
good ones have started. That's right. We just see it
now, okay. 7.3 from RCAO clerk. We have the report.
From Telek Engineering for tiny homes. Could I have a
mover and a seconder on? This, please. This is moved
by deputy mayor Summer, seconded by Councilor Paul Sero. Be
it resolved. That council authorized staff to bring forward to
council next steps process in allowing. Tiny homes and that
all updates be brought forward through the protective services. Questions
or comments. Councilor Jim Dunbar. Thank you, Mayor Hageman to
Ms. Scott. So this year is still being looked at
through. The suggestions from. Talk. And are we going to
fine tune this before you eventually bring it back to
council? Through my Hagman? Essentially, yes. What I'm looking at
doing now is taking the recommendations. That have been brought
forward. Through the report. There's quite a few recommendations there
that are not. Quick reports to bring back to council.
This will take some time to bring this back, and
we want to ensure that we're bringing it back and
we're crossing all of our teeth dotting our eyes to
ensure that we're going through the process correctly. There's. Few
different options. So I would like to hear more from
the committee level as to where. They may like to
proceed, but those will all come forward. Once we have
more information and we review. Our current policies. So our
official plan, as well as our zoning bylaw. Councilor Vidyan,
Denver. Thank you, Mayor Hagman. Will this report also include.
I'm pretty sure. The verbiage is there's tiny homes and
small homes. That they're different. They're a little bit different
in size. Three. Mayor Hegeman that's correct. There is a
difference. And there's a difference even within the tiny home
definition. As to the different types of tiny homes, that
would be available. So you would want to ensure that
there's public consultation. You wouldn't want to have a large
development of tiny homes next to a larger area. Where
they may not want that to occur. So there's a
lot of things that need to go. Into these reports
to ensure that council is doing their due diligence. And
engaging the public as well. Councilor Pastra. Thanks, Mayor Hagman.
I just wanted to thank staff and thank councilor. Middle.
Who brought this to late. It's an interesting and exciting.
Adventure that we are exploring. The housing affordability crisis. Is
substantial. So anything that we can do to alleviate that
would be great, but I really liked in the report
how there was such a diverse implementations in the different
communities. So I'm sorry that you have so much more
work to do ahead of you, but. I think it's
an exciting investigation. Thank you. And I would echo what
councilor Pastoro saying, you see the tiny homes that are
being developed nowadays. And sky is the limit on creativity
within the model. So it would be very beneficial for
our community. So at this point, I will call for
a vote. All in favor? And that vote is carried.
Thank you. It shows up now. All right, 7.5.
Sorry. 7.4. The CAO clerk has given us a report
on the brownfield incentive memorandum. Could I have a mover
and a secondary on that, please? And this is moved
by councilor middle. Seconded by councilor Pastaero, be it resolved.
That council authorized the CAA clerk to work with staff
to investigate the potential costs associated with the report presented
by Tullic Engineering and that all reports be brought back
to the corporate services committee and budget committee. Any questions
or. Comments on this. Councilor Jim Dunbar. Thank you, Mayor
Hagman. It was a pretty good report. Ms. Scott is
quite. In depth, but we've been talking about. Our brownfields
for decades. And moving forward. Obviously. Looking. At protecting.
The taxpayer of blind River. I saw some examples in
there where we're looking at the companies. To bring forth
the remediation. And as we had in a few places
already in town, But I guess you won't get into
the meat of it until. You've done everything. To find
out. That whether or not. This. Could be an added
amount. To the taxpayers of Blind river if we were
moving forward. To remediate. I don't even know how that
would work. Do we go in business or do we
go handshake with the company or an individual? Who? Is
told to remediate this certain amount of land. And if
they refuse? There's a lot to digest there. Through you,
my hagman to Councilor Dunbar. There is certainly a lot
to unpack. With this report. Some municipalities do offer the
incentive program. Those are large municipalities that have the tax
base to allow for that to happen, this would be
a significant tax increase to have the availability of the
incentives there may be some funding available. Again, I would
have to look into that. I believe. There are sometimes.
Some available through programs like the Red program. However, again.
This potentially could be millions of dollars worth of remediation,
depending on the amount. Of contamination at the site. This
is something that I'll do some research on. But first
blush of reading this, I would say this is something
that may not be within the reach of this municipality
based on the cost of the taxpayers. Go ahead. I
just follow up. Thank you, Mayor Heigman. I see this
also. You may need. Provincial government. Coming on board here
because you were saying it may take us millions of
dollars to remediate. But these are some of the companies
who have made billions. And billions of dollars, but yet.
They can lead the piece of land and not develop
it, and it stays like that forever. Where? That's holding
up progress in a lot of municipalities and cities. And
as you're saying our budget is nowhere near. A larger
city where. We could help out with it. But, yeah,
I'm looking forward to the next report. Councilor posterior. Thanks,
Mayor Hegman, kind of along the same lines as councilor
Denbar. The real concern in this is this. Yeah. It
was a great resort report, but it weighed heavily on
the incentivization. Of remediation. My concern is why is the
onus not on the previous owner of the land who
created the brownfield. And why is there no punitive measures
that we could institute? To basically fix that land so
it's usable. And it's really a shame that the majority
of it is on our downtown corridor, which is desperately
needed space. To just really beautify our town. And I'm
just really sad that there's no onus placed upon the
owner. That destroyed the environment in the first place? Or
is there. Through you. May Hegman to councilor Pacero. So
this is obviously. A provincially regulated legislation, piece of legislation,
and as long as that owner owns the property and
maintains and does the appropriate wealth and ensuring that the
groundwater is safe and making sure that it's not leaching
outside of that current boundary they have the right to
hold on to. Their property and because. They're not for
sale. Their property. There's not much that the municipality can.
Do to them at this time with regard to that.
That being said, as I dive deeper into this review.
There's potentially something there. I have seen some municipalities doing
some lobbying for these types of incentives. To force. The
current owners of the property to do something with them
again, that'll be something that I can look into more
as I work through. The brownfield one. The priority will
be the tiny homes and then moving into the brownfield.
Are there any other questions? Seeing none. I will ask
council to vote with their hands. All in favor with
this motion? And that is carried. Thank you. Moving on
to 7.5. Cao clerk was at the Amcto zone seven
meeting. There is a report. Does council have any questions
for Ms. Scott. Councilor Jim Dunbar, I just would like
to congratulate Ms. Scott. On her appointment to the board.
Thank you very much for representing yourself and this community.
Thank you. And thank you to council for the support
and allowing me to join the principal board. Thank you.
My tongue got stuck there. From our treasure. Reinsurance renewal
2024 2025. Could I move? Her in a second or
please, on this motion. And this is moved by deputy
mayor Summer, seconded by councilor Betty Ann Dunbar, be it.
Resolved that council accept the proposal from Brokerlink. Brokerlinkintac public
entities for general insurance and risk management services in the
amount of $324,299 plus applicable taxes for the period of
May 23, 2024 to May 23, 2025 and that council
accept the proposal from CFC underwriting. For cyber risk insurance.
In the amount of $10,530 plus applicable taxes for the
period June 3, 2024. To June 3, 2025. Questions. Deputy
Mayor Summers not really a question. Just to comment that.
The amount came in quite a bit less than what
we had budgeted for the increase, so. Some good news
there. And. Let's put it. Thanks. Councilor Jim Dungar. That
was my question. Also. I don't need to know the
numbers, so if we came in under, I'm. Happy. It
is in the report. Thank you. At this time, I
would ask council a show of hands to tell me
all in favor. And that is Carrie. Thank you. 7.7
from our treasurer. Temporary borrowing for the Huron street reconstruction.
Again? I need a mover. In a second, or please.
Move by councilor Pastaero. Seconded by deputy mayor Summers. Be
it resolve that council authorized. The mayor and CAO ClE
clerk to sign the credit facilities letter with RBC for
the Huron street reconstruction project. Any questions or comments on
this? Seeing none. All in favor with this motion? And
that motion is carried. Thank you. And from our director
of facilities. Community services. Read a blind river senior of
the year nominees. And. We have a person being nominated.
Ms. Bitner, could you come up? And provide us with
some details. Sure. Thanks. Mayor Hagman, is there anything in
particular you're looking for from me? This. Evening. I just
thought it would be nice. To mention the top three.
And essentially the fact that. The top person names go
forward. Correct. So, as per council, the rush knee jerk
action from the last meeting was that we create a
survey for the public to participate in. We had 113
as noted in the report. This map was the first
person, so she's been entered in the provincial portal. So
she's in the running. With the rest of Ontario. So
the other municipalities have participated in the same initiative. They
can enter their person. We have no control over it
or say it's simply a name, phone number, address, and
they go and then we have Mr. Ball. And I
do apologize. I don't know how to properly pronounce. So
I'm not going to try. And make a fool out
of Linda's last name. I don't want to say it
incorrectly on tv. And then the community services package includes
something that we can have a better handle on this
on a go forward because it is basically cost neutral
and really fun for the community to participate in. And
congratulations on behalf of council to Madeline NAP. I think
she is very excited about receiving the nomination, and she
has been sharing this with everyone that she sees on
our street. So that was fun. Moving on to the
service delivery status. May 24, 2024, service delivery review update
does council have any questions as it relates to the
updated service delivery review. Seeing none. We are still moving
along with that. Protective service is met on May 14,
2024. And we have property standing hearing committee appointments and
hearing process. Could I have a mover in? A second
or on that, please. Bring that back up here.
Sorry, my system is a little flow moved by councilor
Dan Mitto, seconded by councilor. Biddy, Ann Dunbar. Be it
resolved, that council authorized the amendment to bylaw 1834 known
as the property standard bylaw. Schedule a property standing hearing
committee. Procedure as recommended by the Protective Services Committee. Any
questions or comments. Councilor Mido first and then councilor Posteraro.
Thanks, Mayor Hagman. I just statement here. I agree. With
the hearing committee procedure. But I, as me do not
want to be part of that committee. Ms. Scott. Thank
you, Mayor Hagman. And to your comment, Councilor Meadow, we
could do a friendly amendment to. This motion and have
it that we do a call for nominations from the
public to have three or five nominations. We like to
keep it at an odd number, a minimum three, I
think, if we could keep it at three, we'd have
a better chance of obtaining enough to fill. The committee
if council is okay with that. So this is going
to be amended now before we vote. Okay, councilor Posterero.
Thank you. I was going to hesitate and ask for
a deferral, but. I'm just wondering. With this to understand
not being part of that committee. What is this all
about? And what is the composition? Of that committee that
you're desiring. Through my hagman to you, councilor Pastoro. So
with any property standards, by law, that. A municipality has.
There is a requirement under the legislation from the building
code that requires. A municipality to have a committee in
the event that charges laid under the bylaw by our
bylaw officer. And a member of the public wishes to
appeal or have that matter heard before the committee. The
committee could then make a decision. If. The applicant. Was
still in disagreement with the ruling of the committee. They
could bring that forward to the court. Services, so. This
is a legally binding committee. It is mandated under legislation
that we have this committee and we're trying to clean
up. That process as we move forward with a more
proactive approach with some of. Our property standards issues that
continue to come in through the e eleven. Follow up.
Thank you. Mayor Pegman, follow up. So with that committee,
those people that are on it being such a legal
procedure, would they be covered and protected by our board's
policy? For liability purposes. Through Marygman to councilor Prossero. That's
a good question. And yes, they would be. We would
do the training with the committee and we would cover
them under our insurance. We would ensure that they're following
all the procedures. And the statutes that are set out
throughout the property standards bylaw as well as through the
building code. Any cross through the standard committee. And the
building code. Any other questions? Seeing none. All in favor
with this motion? Amended a motion? Yes. Can I hear
any? It's in there. Be it resolve. That council will
authorize the amendment of bylaw 1834, known as the property.
Standard bylaw schedule a property standard tiering committee procedures and
that a call for public interest. For three community members
to participate on the property standards hearing committee. As recommended
by the Protective Services Committee. And now I will call
for a vote. All in favor? And that vote is
carried. Thank you. We have no unfinished business. So,
moving on to correspondence requiring action, April 11, Blind River
Community Days committee. Sent a request. Through released fireworks, and
I'm looking for a mover and a seconder on this.
Sorry. This was moved by deputy mayor Summer, seconded by
council Dan Mittow, be it resolved at council authorized the
Blind River Community Days committee to host a fireworks display
at the town park as the closing feature to Community
days 2024 on July 14 at Dusk. And that knh
fire. Fireworks. Submit all required permits and proof of insurance
to the town prior to the event and that following
the submission of a complete. Noise. Bylaw exemption application. By
the Blind River Community Days committee. K and H fireworks
is hereby granted an exemption to bylaw 21 24. North
bylaw for the fireworks event on July 14, 2024. Councilor
Jim Dunbar, thank you. Just a question. Would they also
be exempt? I know these are professionals from a fireband.
Through you. Mayor Hagman to Councilor Dunbar. No, they would
not. If there's a fire ban in place, they would
not. Be exempt under any conditions. Councilor Pastoro. Thanks. Mayor
Hagman's similar question. So what would happen in the event
that there was a fireband or the weather was not
cooperating with this beautiful event. Through you. May Hegman to
you. Councilor Pastoro. Ms. Bitner would like to respond. To
the question. Through you. Mayor Hegman, Councilor Pastoro. This is
why using credible fireworks agencies which appear to be in
the letter using a licensed firm. Typically there's a clause
in there. That the funds would be kept by the
company and typically transferred over to the following year. Sometimes
anywhere from ten to 30% may be kept by the
company because they may have paid for things such as
hotel rooms and advanced et cetera, and their staff, but
that would be up to the group to deal with,
so there may be a slight loss, but typically the
fireworks providers don't say we're taking your 100%. We're keeping
it and we're not delivering it. Any other. Questions. Call
for a shoe of hands. All in favor with this
motion? And that motion is carried. Thank you. And again
from the community days. Committee re moving in the park.
Letter was sent on April 14, 2024. And could I
have a mover in a second, or. Please. This has
moved my councilor Betty Annbors, seconded by councilor Dan Mittow.
Be it resolved that council authorized the Blind River Community
Days committee 2024 to host movie in the park on
July 11, 2024, in the town park and that all
required forms and proof of insurance be provided to the
cao cle. Clerk questions or comments. Councilor Dan Mittow. Thank
you, Mayor Hagman. Just was wondering if there's going to
be stipulation on rating of the movie. And we have
a member of our. Committee in the audience. Is there
a stipulation on the writing of the movie? That's a
good question. It's a family movie. So it's pg? Yes.
Or general movie. Great. Thank you. For that. Any other
questions from council? Councilor Pastoro. Thanks, Mayor Higman. Also, I
know it's quite hard to get. Licensing and stuff like
that. So all those processes have occurred to show. A
live movie in the park. Again, looking at our committee
members for that. To show the. Film to in a
park. Would there be steps that you have to do
to basically publicly display that foam? There's license the organization
that. 's doing it. Councilor Jim Dundar. Thank you, Mayor
Heitman. I've been seeing. A lot of interest. And a
lot of involvement by the committee going after Diamond. Sponsors.
And. Gold sponsors or whatever they may have. But I
have a question. We as council. We had passed a
motion. I believe it was for amount of $20,000. But
I don't see anywhere in that motion. Is it? Okay,
perfect. I didn't see it there. Okay, so I'll just
hold on to that question. Till 11.7. All right. Thank
you. Just bear one. There we go. We're ready. Okay.
At this time, I will ask council by show of
hands. To vote on this. All in favor, and that
is unanimously carried. Thank you. And 11.3 from the city
of Peterborough. The Almudsband letter sent to us on April
16, and I'm looking for a mover and a seconder
on this. Motion. And this is moved by councilor Pastoro,
seconded by councilor Betty Ann Dunbar be it resolved that
council support the city of Peterborough with a request that
the Honorable Paul Calandra Minister of Municipal affairs and Housing,
introduced the bill to amend the. Odd Amendment act to
require the Ontario Ombudsman to provide each municipality, if requested
by the municipality sufficient particulars of each investigation's matter of
case respecting the municipality, that is referred to in each
of the ombudsman's annual reports. Sorry, lost my part. Two.
Permit the municipality to fully understand and address the subject
matter of each investigation matter of case, including a copy
of each complaint as applicable. Redacted only to the extent
of the individual's personal information contained therein. The identities of
the municipality's employees, officers and members of council with whom
the ombudsman was consulting in respect to the investigation, matter
of case and particulars of outcome of the investigation matter
of case, including the OM. Ombudsman's finding. Conclusions and recommendations,
if any, and that this resolution be forwarded to Mr.
Minister Calandra, the Association of Municipalities of Ontario and the
city of Peterborough. Any questions or comments. Councilor Benny Annbar.
Can we amend the resolution? To also include it being
forwarded to phenome to the phenomenon board. Or. Is this
restricted to what's here? Three? My Hugman. That amendment can
be made if. Council is in agreement. I'll just wait
for it to be amended.
Councilor. Deputy mayor Summers. So I just have a question
on this. They're looking for the information. Regarding. Whoever. Is
being looked into or that sort of thing. Right. So
they want to know who they spoke. To regarding this
situation. I'm just wondering. Am I reading this right? So
they would be able to know. What the issue is.
Who it's about and who they spoke to regarding that
issue. I'm just wondering. If that's going to be creating
issues for people. To maybe not want to speak up
because they know that that information. Can be. You know
what I mean? They may feel that they're doing it
safely behind closed doors kind of thing. Am I reading
this correctly? Through my hagman to you, councilor Summers. So
this motion is not our motion. I don't know what
the intent of that is. I will be bringing forward.
An amendment to the procedural bylaw to deal with these
types of motions, but essentially, yes. So. When you go
through the embudsman investigation, a lot of times you are
speaking with. Their initial intake officers. So you're doing some
intake with them, but they're not. Giving you all of
the information. And then at the end of it, if
they find that there's nothing there to substantiate. It. They
won't provide that to you in writing either. So there's
been a lot of discussion from numerous boards and associations
with the legislation, with the embudsman. I can certainly bring
something back to council. More details. But I think the
intent of this, and again, this is not our motion,
but the intent would be to have more dialogue with
the embungman's office to understand better the process and the
rationale for the decision that was made at the end
of the day. And thank you for that. Because I
know you definitely would want to know. Well, first of
all, if they are investigating someone, you would like to
know that. And what the outcome was, I'm not too
sure about. The middle stuff. I mean, that's something that
we could talk about, I guess. But. We're just supporting
this thing. We're doing it either. Okay. Thank you. And
you'll recognize on the last line of the motion that
phenome is mentioned. So I won't read the whole motion
over again. Thank you. And at this time, I will
ask by a show of hands. All in favor? And
that is carried. Yeah. It's just easier
for those of us that are having challenges with our
system tonight. From the town of Plymouth, Wyoming. Resecuring access
to natural gas for our community and Ontario. I'm looking
for a mover in a seconder on this motion. And
this is moved by Councilor Mito, a seconded by councilor
Paul Stereo be it resolved that council support the town
of Plympton, Wyoming regarding the natural gas expansion program. And
the electrification and energy transition panels call for. A clear
policy. On the role of natural gas to secure access
to affordable energy. And that natural gas must continue to
play an integral role in meeting the energy needs of
Ontario. And that a copy of this resolution be forwarded
to. Amo ontario. Honorable doug ford, premier of ontario. Honorable
tahod smith, the minister of. Energy and the town of
Plympton, Wyoming. Questions. Councilor Jim Dunbar. Please? Sure. Deputy Mars
not in favor. Councilor benny ann dunbar. In favor.
Council. Jim Dunbar opposed. Councilor Jennifer Postgrow. Epstein. Councilor Dan
Meadow, in favor. Mayor Hagman in favor. That's a typo
that's defeated. And moving on to 11.5 from the township
of Scugog reproposed amendment to subsection 27th of the Ontario
Heritage act with respect to removal of listed nondesignated properties
from municipal heritage registers. Move her. In a second, or,
please. This is moved by deputy Mayor Summers. Seconded by.
Sorry, I've lost my spot there. Yet the rate slower
my councilor Bidenbor be it resolve it council support at
the township of Scudgolk regarding the proposed amendment to section
27. In clause 16 of the Ontario Heritage act with
respect to the removal of listed nondesignated properties from the
municipal heritage register, specifically requesting subsection 27 in bracket 16
of the Ontario Heritage act be amended to extend the
deadline for five years from January 1. 2025 to January
1, 2030, and that a copy of this resolution be
forwarded to the township of Scud oak. Questions. Councilor Jim
Dunbar. Thank you, mayor. Hiking? I may ask for a
little, maybe explanation here from this, but the way I
see this, Their heritage. Houses. Buildings
are designated heritage, but it's actually up. I believe it's
up to a municipality who winds up. With the bill
to keep. These heritage buildings going. So. Are they trying?
To make less of them to take off. Certain. Heritage
buildings, and we're given five years before this happens. Or.
Are they specifically? To. Certain heritage. Buildings. I realize we
probably couldn't afford. To do a heritage building or to
keep up, that's, like, taken on another facility. That if
there's no revenue. But you're always putting money into it.
If we had great amounts of money. Maybe, but how
is this year? What exactly are they trying to say?
Here, Katie. Do you? Mayor Hagen to Councilor Dunbar, I'm
not 100% sure exactly what they're. Asking again. This is
not our resolution. And I could look into it a
little bit further, but. Some pieces of the legislation with
regard to heritage could be that we designate an area
of town. As a heritage area and then. They would
be held to standards under the building code that they
must comply with those designated areas. Design. I'm not 100%
sure if that is what they're speaking to here. In
that case, yes. There is burden on the municipality to
uphold those pieces of legislation with regard to the Heritage
act. But again, I don't feel comfortable giving you. A
clear. Slice of answer on this particular motion without having
more information from the originating municipality, which I could bring
forward to the protective services by law committee. If that
is something that you wish. That would have been my
follow up. Where is the township of Scogog? Since southern
Ontario.
Just a note in the motion. It is asking for
an extension. Because they're not able to carry it out
within the time frames. They're wanting our support. In the
extension. Not in asking them how to do. Their carriage
sites. Councilor postrail. Thanks, Mar Hegeman. And through you to
Cao Scott. I definitely. Feel bad that there should be
rationale. With. These correspondence for action. I feel just really
ill informed. So hence why I would abstain from something
if I didn't. Know the true intentions, so I definitely
don't want to be in your spot. Trying to answer
questions. Maybe. I don't know what the different conferences that
we could go through. I know many. Municipalities do this.
They just send correspondence for action. Maybe something could be
brought up that to attach. A good rationale with the
intent. Behind these because it's really difficult. When you're disconnected
from the issue, to really make an informed decision. Sending
my head into councilor pastoro. So last week at our
municipal fairs, meeting in subway. We did discuss this exact
item, which is why I will be amending or putting
forward an amendment to the procedural bylaw to address these
items. Because half of them that we receive don't show
up on the agenda. So we'd like to have a
better approach with these and to have a more informed
rationale for council to appropriately vote. Right. And on that
note, We are calling for a vote. All in favor
with this motion, raise your hands. Opposed. And that vote
is. That is defeated. Thank you. Moving on to 11.6.
The Rotary Club of Blind river has written about concerts
by the lake in 2024. And I have a mover
in a seconder, please. This is moved by Councilor Paul
Serero, seconded by councilor middle whereas the summer concert series
is an annual event. Hold stood by Blind River Rotary
Club. Therefore, be it resolve that council authorized the Blind
River Rotary Club. Youth of the B. Ensign Memorial Gazebo
at Sellers park. Including the electrical outlets for their annual.
Concert by the Lake Thursday nights from 07:00 p.m. To
08:00 p.m. During July and August 2024. Any questions or
comments? Deputy mayor summers just a comment. Yay. I'm glad
it's going to be on for this year. I had
concerns about it coming back this year. So very happy
to see this. It's a good news story for sure.
And at this time, I would ask by raising your
hands, all in favor with this motion? And that motion
is carried. Thank you. I know you're trying, Councilor bathroom.
Item number 11.7. April 25, 2024, from the Blind River
Community Days committee, read the $20,000 sum from council. Could
I have a mover in a seconder, please? Sorry, my
system is very slow tonight. This is moved by councilor
middle, seconded by deputy mayor Summers. Be it resolved, that
council authorized a donation in the amount of $20,000 to
the blue eyed River Community Days committee 2024. And that
all transactions be funneled through the town. And that all
proceeds from the 2024 community day's event be returned to
the town and place. Placed into a reserve account. For
the further community days committee's events questions, comments. I know
councilor middle has. The first. Question comment. Thanks, Mayor Hagman.
Just more of a comment that I would just like
to commend the committee for their hard work and effort.
I was skeptical when this first took off. And I'm
really glad that it's going well, and I think everybody's
going to enjoy it. Thank you for that. Other comments.
Councilor Diddy Annbar. Thank you, Mayor Higgin. I just want
to know if the wording of this addresses any commitments
that they have made. For. They were going to, some
of the proceeds were going to go to. Assist other?
I don't know. I can't even remember what it was.
If it was the women's shelter. The beer gardens. When
we're talking about this motion, does that also address the
commitments that they have made? To other organizations. This is
in terms of. The giving of the $20,000 to the
community. But they're also talking about. The proceeds. To be
returned to the town to be held in reserve for
the next community days. So. Does that address any commitments
that they might have? Already. Go ahead. Thank you. So,
to Natalie and to summer. I think what councilor Dunbar
is asking is the way this resolution is worded, is
that. The money would still be held. All monies would
still be held by the town. But altogether. Not mixed
back. With the special events account. It would all be
community based. Correct? Yes. Councilor Denver. Does that answer your
question? Yes. Councilor Jim Denver. Thank you, Mayor
Hagman. I took the time. To go over. The actual
date. We last did this motion, and I believe it
was back in March 4, 2024. And the motion that
we passed here at that council read. As whereas council
supports in principle the community days proposal. Therefore, be it
resolved that council allocates a maximum of $20,000 from the
special event reserve of community days. 2024 and requires that
all financial activity. Flow through the town of Blind river,
which was Kerry. I guess comments and questions. I'll go
with the question was, I see that this one. Is
worded differently, but the way I see it, The last
sentence and. That all proceeds from the 2024 Community Days
event. Be returned to the town and place into the
reserve account for further community. Day events. I just want
to clarify something here. With that being said. That's fine
and dandy. Just to talk about. It. I think councilor
Betty and Denver mentioned was the beer gardens you met.
All proceeds. Well. The beer garden was set up, I
believe, with the committee. And. There is a percentage that
will go back to them to contribute. To the reserve.
What I want to clear up is that for some
reason, We put out $20,000 and it says donation. And
they're able to put $15,000 back into the reserve for
next year. Do they owe us? 5000. I just want
to know. Once I clarified that this is not a
loan. Through you. Mayor Hegman. Two. Councilor Dumber. That is.
The purpose of this resolution is to clarify it for
the municipality and to obtain clear direction from council that
the $20,000 will be allocated into the separate reserve. Originally,
when it was discussed at the table was and I
think it was a little bit confusing for all of
us. Where? Council was giving them $20,000 to get started,
get rolling. But then that $20,000 would be put back.
Into that festival's reserve. At the end of this, but
we're now looking for clarification that the committee would be
able to keep the $20,000, the proceeds, everything. But within
one account. That is still under the town umbrella reserve.
That way we can properly allocate receipts to those who
provide donations. And track the funds as it is still
taxpayer money. That is very clear to me. And this
way, this year is written up. This motion, I would
support it. Councilor Pastra. Thanks for Hagman. I guess I
had similar questions. Just at the last. Portion of the
motion. And proceeds from the 2024 community days events be
returned to the town and placed in a reserve account
for further community. Day committee offense. So again, like Betty
and Dunbar and Jim Dunbar were seating is so does.
That. Because it also wanted to be a philanthropic thing
where. The donations are going to. Certain organizations, so I
just wanted to ensure that those can also be met.
By the committee and I highly doubt will be under
the $20,000. Proceeds because it's such a substantial event. So
I guess my question is, does that last one encompass?
Everything. And because all the financial transactions are funneled through
the town. It would kind of be like an audited
statement of knowing where the funds have gone, so. There
is that kind of transparency for the public, that the
$20,000 was well spent. Through you, Mayor Hagman to you,
Councilor Pastoro, all of the funds that have been received
to date have been provided to the town. And our
treasurer is keeping track of all of the receipts coming
in and all of the invoices. That need to be
paid are being received and paid out from the town,
so. There's a. Clear accounting record. Of all transactions, which
we will then sit down with the organizers at the
end, go through it. All make sure that we all
agree with the numbers. And then present to council. A
full overview of the events proceeds funding. The whole works
for the entire event. Councilor Paschero. Thank you. In those
events, like, for example, the beer gardens. So would that.
Be the organization that is running it. They would be
the one that is running that, and that wouldn't be
included in the proceeds because that would be their own
event. Through you. Mayor Hagman to council Prostero. Correct me
if I'm wrong. But, Natalie. But I believe that, yes,
the beer gardens is a separate event. It's a separate
issue. It won't be run through the town. Council has
provided a resolution to declare it a significant event. So
they can obtain their. Beer garden licensing. Right. And at
this time, seeing no other questions, I will call for
a vote. All in favor? Raise your hands. And that
is unanimously carried. Thank you for that. 11.8 and this
is from the town of Smith Falls. Basic income guarantee.
And could I have a mover and a seconder on
that, please?
This is moved by councilor Pastoro, seconded by councilor Betty
Ann Dunbar. Whereas the minimum wage in Ontario and the
maximum amounts of financial support available through Ontario works and
the Ontario disability support program. Are insufficient to meet the
basic needs of full time, minimal wage workers or of
individuals or families. Drawing ow. Or ODSP support. And whereas
basic income is a means by which individuals, families, and
whole communities can be less vulnerable, to negative changes in
health, relationship or family status, and labor markets and better
able to navigate transitions and challenging circumstances. And whereas basic
income is money distributed to eligible. People. Regularly, reliably and
without work requirement and which absence other income should be
met. Should be meet basic human needs. Therefore, be it
resolve that council support the town of Smith halls. Regarding
basic income guarantee for all working age adults to help
combat low income and economic vulnerability within our communities that
the federal, provincial and territorial governments collaborate on the. Design,
introduction, implementation, and ongoing evaluation of a national basic income
guarantee program for working age adults and that this resolution
be forwarded to the town of Smith Balls. Questions, comments.
Councilor poster arrow. Thanks very. Was just having this debate
in our civics class in the last two days. We
are discussing the political spectrum. So. With this discussion of
universal basic income. It is an interesting concept, which does
have merit, but as this is written, I wouldn't be
able to endorse a blank check basic income guarantee, because
there's so much complexity and nuance to it. I would
hope that if we're going to investigate, it would be
even more inclusive. So as this is written, I can't
support it. Councilor Dan Mittow. Thanks, Mayor Hegman. I would
just like to know where this money would be coming
from. The province, the provincial taxpayer. Yeah. Are there any
other questions before I call for a vote? All in
favor wish this motion, please raise your hands. And opposed.
And that is defeated three to three. Thank you. And
moving on to 11.9 from the city of Stratford, the
operational budget funding. Could I get a mover in a
second on that, please?
Move my deputy mayor, summer, seconded by Councilor Jim Dunbar.
Whereas all Ontario municipalities are prohibited from running budget deficits
for operating purposes. And where of all Ontario municipalities have
similar pressures with respect to aging infrastructure and operating costs
for polic. Policing. And whereas the City of Toronto has
recently received provincial funding to cover a $1.2 billion operating
shortfall and approximately. 12 million in federal and provincial funding
for their police operating budget. And whereas the city of
Toronto has the lowest tax rates in the province, approximately
40% less than the average. Duffin rural municipal tax rate.
Therefore, be it resolved that council support the township of
armor Nath and the City of Stratford with their coal
on the province of Ontario to treat all municipalities fairly
and provide equivalent representative operational budget. Funding amounts to all
Ontario mu. Municipalities and that this resolution be forwarded to
the city of Stratford. Questions, comments. Councilor Posterero. Thanks, Mayor
Hagwin. I know we're trying to keep this. Being shorter.
But. Equity and funding is so essential, especially for rural
communities. When you look at the per capita funding if
you look at Toronto, The perceived. Distribution of funds definitely
doesn't seem equitable. So anything moving towards equity for rural
communities is awesome. And it was noted at the Good
Roads conference. That the city of Toronto has given back
the gardener. And the Don Mills Valley Parkway to the
province. For their coverage of costs. And the rest of
us were sitting in the audience going, what about? Us.
Councilor Jim Dunbar. Thank you very, Hagman. I just wanted
to bring up. It's. More of a comment. Years ago,
Amel proposed. A 1% tax height. That the province.
Could not get their greedy little hands on, and it
was only go to infrastructure. And it was quite informative
and it was quite substantial. But nobody had the political
will. To increase the hst by 1%. Which. Might have
taken a lot of municipalities. Out of these hard times
that we're seeing. And foreseeing in the near future, if
not the long future. Thank you. Seeing no other comments
or questions I will ask by raising your hands. All
in favor with this? Motion. And that motion is carried.
Thank you. April 26, the Municipality of Trent Hills sent
us letter refunding social services in Ontario and they are
asking for a mover and a seconder on their motion.
This is moved by councilor Paul Serrow, seconded by councilor
Mittow, whereas Ontario was experiencing a housing crisis with housing
costs for exceeding affordable levels by any standard, including in
blind river. And whereas the prevalence of homelessness is quickly
increasing beyond the capacity of local governments, To create new
emergency, transitional or affordable housing. And whereas homelessness is a
condition that can largely be prevented with adequate resources, but
that nonetheless puts an increasing number of residents at risk
of considerable harm or death and with insufficient housing and
social services, fail not. Only to provide for those experiencing
homelessness, but also. Called significant economic cost to municipalities as
well as to the province in the form of higher
policing. First responder healthcare and economic development costs, among others.
And whereas insufficient housing and social services fail not only
to provide for those experiencing homelessness, but also cause significant.
Social costs in communities that experience social estrangement, insecurity, and
fear of associated with increased crime. And visible drug use,
all of which causes considerable social and political unrest. And
whereas the province of Ontario dictates the requirement for social
services, including emergency shelters, but limits their operation through insufficient
funding, thereby causing Fed economic and social costs at the
municipal governance level. And whereas municipalities recognize our moral and
legal obligation to provide adequate shelter and public safety for
all residents, but are limited in our capacity to unilaterally
do so by constrained finance. Therefore be it resolved that
the council support the municipality of Trent hills along. With
other Northumberland. County municipalities with their call upon the province
of Ontario. To significantly increase funding for housing, shelters, and
other necessary social services to ensure adequate levels of service.
To meet the needs of our residents and that this
resolution be forwarded to the honorable Doug. Ford, premier of
Ontario, to the honorable Paul Calendra, minister of municipal affairs
and Housing, the. Honorable David Pacini, Minister of Labor, Immigration,
Training and Skills Development and the Municipality of Trent Hills.
Questions. Comments councilor Pastoro, thanks for Hankman. Just a comment.
The housing crisis is not going to be solved by
building more houses. The housing crisis is going to be
solved by properly funding and not short changing the social
services that are the antecedent. To being homeless. So I
would hope and call upon the government to properly fund
social services such as healthcare, education. Thank you. And seeing
no other hands going up this time, I would ask
council to raise your hands if you are in favor
of this motion? And that motion is carried. Thank you.
April 19, we received correspondence from the municipality of Wawa.
The highway. 469 rerouting true Shaplo to White river could
have a mover. Or nest seconder on this motion, please.
This is moved by councilor Jim Dunbar, seconded by councilor
Mitto be a result. At council support the municipality of
Wawa with their objection to the new highway 400. 69
extension to be built from Sudbury to Shaplow to White
river, which would essentially bypass Wawa and other communities in
northwest eastern Ontario, like Blind river, that depend on highway
traffic to support their. Economies, jobs, businesses and families living
in northeastern Ontario, and that this resolution be forwarded to
Premier Doug Ford, Minister of Transportation. Had lead Sarquet Kia
associate minister of transportation VJ Thank. Deputy Minister of Transportation
Douglas Jones Phenome and the municipality of worldwide. I'm sure
there are a lot of comments. Councilor Jim Dunbar. I'll
make mine short and sweet. I don't understand. Where this
government can even phantom the amount of money that it
would take. To build this new highway. But I do
see the ring of fire being developed. And some of
these processing places of Thunder Bay would get a lot
of. His. Battery. Stuff that he needs from these mines
to make these batteries. And cars that are being again
built in southern Ontario. But, I mean, if something like
this was to ever happen. Yeah. We definitely would. Be.
Then we would have to be a place of destination.
And I think a lot of the businesses here would
close and small towns would just dry up. And maybe
new towns would be built, but I can't support this.
So what you're doing is you're supporting the motion not
to go forward. With this. So you would be supporting
this motion? I can tell you that because I'm old.
And my mother was older, that at one time, when
Highway 17 was being built between Thunder Bay, and to
St. Marie Sudbury, that actually they were going to build
the highway based on the height. Of land, which is
White River. Chaplow. Chaplow to Sudbury. And that the soup.
Corrid. Corridor was going to be. Passed. And at the
time, there was a lot of lobbying going on and
lead us to say, that idea was defeated. So this
is the time for those of us that live in
the corridor. To raise our voices. And if we have
to get political because we know how long it's taken
us to get Highway 69 north to Sudbury built, and
there was no mention of that at the good roads.
Conference. But there was a lot of things of that
race at the phenome conference. So the ministers are hearing
northeastern Ontario, and this is another opportunity for us to
go forward. Councilor Betty Annbar thank you, Mayor Heckman, just
a comment, having just come back from phenome. There was
a lot of emphasis put on. Northeastern and northeastern. Ontario.
Almost nothing said about the Highway 17 corridor, and I
really think we need to start lobbying on behalf of
ourselves and try to get some attention. To our area,
to this court because we are being overlooked. In every
regard, whether it is healthcare or roads or any of
the issues that we are facing. Right now. We need
to start making some noise and let them know that
we're still here and. We're important. Any other comments? Seeing
none at this time. I will call for a vote
by raising your hands. All in favor? With this motion.
And that is unanimously carried. Thank you. Eleven point twelve.
The Blind River Demolition Derby 2024, donation. Request. Could I
move around a second, or. Please. This is moved by
deputy mayor Summers, seconded by Councilor Jim Dunbar. Be it
resolved that council approve the request from the Blind River
Demolition Derby Committee for the assistance with site preparation grass.
Cutting and pit area cleaned out. Bleacher delivery and removal.
Eight tables, eight chairs, eight garbage. Can. Cans and seven
recycling bins. Organization of rental of three portable wash rooms.
Two row closure signs, two barricades, two picnic tables, To
level out the ground of the lower area. Questions comments
on this first motion. This is the first of three.
Deputy mayor Summers, just a question. Is this what we
usually do? All of the requests this evening are normally
what we would do for the demolition derby, which is
part of community days. However, this would not be taken
from the community days reserved. This would have to come
out of these special events reserve. Councilor Jim Dunbar. Thank
you. I'm just curious. Do we have? On hand. I
know we have maybe emergency services of some sort, ambulances.
In case and. Do we maybe have some policing involved
in that? Do the altercations that we had down there.
With some traffic moving. Rather fast. You, Mayor Hagman. Two
councilor Dunbar. This would all be up to the event
organizer to organize. With these emergency services, I can tell
you that the fire department is normally on site. They
do volunteer their time for this event, but. The other
two emergency services would be organized by the organizer of
the derby. Ms bitter. Thanks. Mayor Hagman. I assume there's
a new person that's typed this letter. Out. But again,
I'm asking counsel to amend the resolution. We do not
move bleachers. From the Jay's care field to the demolition
derby. Also last year, our picnic tables that we brought
were vandalized at the site. The Porta bodies were also
vandalized at the site. So you were all on the
hook for those additional fees. So I would suggest putting
something in there that you will cover the rental fee.
However, if there are any damages that the organizer must
pay for that and must pay full replacement costs for
any town assets that are wrecked as a result of
the event. Good point. Thank you for that. Councilor Jim
Dunbar. Yeah. Thank you. I have a question to the
facility manager. The director. The picnic
tables that. Were destroyed or whatnot. Karen was. Did we
leave those, like, overnight, or were they damaged? After the
event was over, did we leave them around? A little
too long. I don't know what the timeline was, how
long they were sitting there before they were. Damaged. Council.
Dunbar. When the team went to clean up the next
day, things were wrecked, especially the Porta. Potties. Now, as
far as an exact timeline table, may have been left
there for a couple of extra days. But again, that
resolution does not cover paying perks beyond the pickup, so.
You need to include your stat. Your Sunday. Cleanup. And
that's where these things get costly. So to save money,
what the team does is wait until the next working
day to collect the rest of the items. Let's say
motion been amended. Pam. Deputy mayor Summers, just a question
then. The bleachers that are there, Ms bitner. Then? Are
they just there? Deputy mayor Summers. Yes, there's a set
that lives there permanently. Now. Another thing we have not
been out there yet because we're waiting on council's decision
tonight. I would allocate some funds for new boards, because
every spring the boards are rotting as the bleachers age,
so we always have repairs and we will recall from
the budget this year. Parks has nothing in it. So
please ensure you include perhaps up to ten replacement boards
to come. Out of that same fund, which gives us
the wiggle room to be able to address that. Repair
with home hardware. Councilor Pottero, and then. Director Chris Zager.
Thanks, Mayor Hegman. I definitely agree with your amendment that
the liability of destruction. To our town athletes be the
organizer's responsibility. The other thing I was going to say.
If the bleachers there are really ugly. There's a competition
right now for the ugliest bleacher with funding. So if
you take pictures of the bleachers, you can put it
on there and maybe. We'll win some funding for new
bleachers for the derby. And mr. Zeger. To the rest
of council. Yeah, Karen's absolutely right. But the bleachers we
did. Have to do some pretty extensive repairs last year,
but. We knew. It was essentially just a band aid
and that there would be additional repairs that would need
to be completed this year. And outside of that, I
would just recommend amending this resolution. The last part indicates
to level out the grounds in the lower area, and
that's in. Addition to the grass cutting and pit area
being cleaned out, which is what we typically do. But.
It would be additional heavy ground work if we were
going to just level out and flatten that lower area
of the pick grounds, which would be substantially more equipment
and staff time from public works. Ms scott. Scottman to
you. Mr. Zagger, do we have the staff available to
undertake that work? Scott, we do have staff available. We're
fully staffed. But we. 're all essentially trying to catch
up on the summer projects that were behind on, so.
It's at council's direction, but my recommendation would be to
keep those staff focused. On the extensive ditching, sweeping projects
that we have in trying to get ready for the
road. Resurfacing and the other infrastructure projects that we have
lined up for the short summer. Window, although a little
longer this season. We're hoping to take advantage of it.
And get as far into these projects and gain as
much ground as possible. Would it help to level out
the grounds in the lower area? If time permits? Absolutely.
I can tell you now, time will not do that.
Councilor pastor. Thanks, Mayor Hegman. I would agree with director
Zeker, and I would wish to strike that. Leveling of
the lower grounds area, we can take it right out.
Deputy mayor Summers. Plus, isn't it already more or less
leveled out? I think that's where the bleachers are, right?
Is that what you're. Talking about? No. I believe they're
indicating the lower ground. So around the pit area is
where the bleachers. Are located down below that. Is kind
of where they set up the vehicles. The emergency services
are parked, I'm assuming. That's where we're indicating is the
lower area. It's not necessarily it's just natural. It hasn't
been worked. So I'm assuming that they're asking there is
to level that out and flatten. Out that area so
it's a little easier for parking and vehicles. But just
my recommendation would be to suggest against that as it
be significant addition and work to what we normally perform
now from year to year. It's been struck, though, perfect.
All right. Council. So you can see the amendment in
front of you for the first of three resolutions. And
at this time, I will call for a vote on
resolution number one. All in favor with. This motion. And
that vote is carried. And I'm now looking for a
mover and a seconder. On resolution number two.
And that is moved by councilor Betty Endonbark. It's seconded
by councilor Mido, be it resolve that council. Authorize the
Blind river demolition Derby Committee to advertise the demolition Derby
on the wooden farm market sign and the sign located
near the truck route. Signs will be posted from May
22, 2024, to June 22, 2020. Sorry. July 22, 2024
as it going cross site. Questions, comments on that motion.
At this time. Then I will call for a vote.
All in favor? And opposed. That rodas carried. Thank you.
And the third motion on the table. Is in relationship
to the closure of the road. Could I have a
mover? In a seconder. Please. This is moved by Councilor
Mido, seconded by deputy mayor Summers, be it resolved that.
Council authorized the closure of the road at the junction
of Birch street and Young Fox Road and the portion
of the truck route for the Blind river demolition derby
on Friday, July 12, 2024 from 05:00 p.m. To approximately
ten. 30 p. M. Any questions or comments on this
motion? Councilor Pacero thanks, Mayor Hegman I see in the
motion that it's after working hours, but this wouldn't have
any implications on the substantial construction that's going on in
that area. Stream. Mayor Hegman to you. Councilor Poster. I
don't believe that there would be. Any interference with the
construction in that area. I don't know if either one
of my team members, Ms. Bitner or Mr. Zayer has
any objection to my comments or we're, all in agreement
that that would not obstruct the construction. At this time,
I'll call for a vote on this motion. All in
favor? And that vote is carried. Thank you. Eleven point
13. This is a night of correspondence. May 9, 2024.
The minister of seniors in accessibility read. June is seniors
month, 2024. I have a mover and a seconder. And
we got a moving and secondary from one of our
noam seniors moved by councilor. Middle. Seconded by deputy mayor
Summers, be it resolved, that council author. Oh, sorry, wrong
one. Moved by councilor Betty and Denver are seconded by
councilor middle, where a seniors month is an annual province
wide celebration, and whereas seniors have contributed and continued to
contribute immensely to the life of a vibrancy of this
community. And we have seniors continue to serve as leaders.
Mentors, volunteers in important and active. Members of this community.
And whereas your contributions, past and present, Warren appreciation and
recognition and the stories deserve to be told. And whereas
the health and well being of seniors is in the
interest of all and further ads to the health and
well being of the community. And whereas the knowledge and
experience. Seniors pass. On to us continues to benefit all.
Therefore, be it resolve, that council hereby proclaim June 1
to 30 24 seniors month in Blind river and encourage
all citizens to recognize and celebrate the accomplishment of our
seniors. Questions, comments. As a senior, I support this. All
in favor with this motion? And that is carried. Thank
you. Last but not least on our. Correspondence requiring. Participation.
Ms. Scott. Thank you, Mayor Hagman, just before we read
out this motion, it's been requested by the hospital that
we don't pass this motion tonight, that just that we
authorize. Staff to work with the hospital throughout this process.
And as we determine routes, if they determine that they're
going to move forward with that, then we will bring
this forward. To the table so we're not striking it
from happening. They're just in the very infantile stages of
this project, and so it'll just be staff working with
them. At this time. Sounds great. So exciting to have
a participation item coming up, and I believe it's going
to be at the end of June. So stay tuned.
We'll have more at the next council meeting, I'm sure.
Correspondence requiring information April 12, 2024. Cami Co. Corporation provided
their 2023 annual compliance monitoring and operational performance report. Congratulations,
chemical. Any questions? Comments from council? Seeing none. April 15
emergency management Ontario re emergency management program. And we have
our training. Next Thursday from 830 till noon. Any comments
from council? And May 10, 2024, the TransCanada Trail ree
the Trail Youth Employment Program. Congratulations. Miss Bitner on this
application receiving $6,500. Is there any comments from council? Councilor?
Pastoro. Just a further shout out. Awesome. Mark, Karen. Always
getting that money for our town, right? Reducing the taxpayers.
Oh, man, you're taxpayers. If you knew. Millions. Millions. She's
saving you. So thanks again. And I love the fact
that it's. Another youth that's able to do great work
in the community. Thank you for that. And moving on
to. Our notices of motions. We have received no notices
of motion at this time. Moving to the introduction and
consideration of bylaws. Bylaw 24 32 for the Matinenda dock
head wall reconstruction agreement. A mover in a second or
please. And this is moved by deputy mayor Summers, seconded
by councilor Betty Annbar, be it. Resolved, a council authorized
the mayor and CAO clerk to sign bylaw 24 32
being a bylaw of the corporation of the town of
Blind river to enter into an agreement 82329. Two Ontario
Limited with GI Enterprises for the Matnanda DOC Headwell reconstruction
project was passed in open council this 21st day of
May, 2024. Questions? Comments Councilor Pastoro thanks, Mayor Harriman. Just
another woohoo. I'm so excited to see this come to
fruition. I remember being out there with members of the
Matinenta Cottage Association. And just as desperately needed. So I
can hardly wait to see the final product that's great
work. Thank you. And any other comments from council saying
none, I will call for a vote. All in favor
with this motion. And that motion is carried. Anyone opposed?
Okay. I just have to watch for the late hands.
Thank you. Bylaw 24 33 from dancework agreement. Could I
have a mover in a seconder? Please. Move by councilor
Pastorrero. Seconded by councilor Mitto. Be it resolved that. Council
authorized the mayor and CaO clerk to sign bylaw 24
33, being a bylaw of the corporation of the town
of Blind river to enter an agreement with Dan's work.
For use of the Blind River Community center was passed
in open council this 21st day of May. 2024. Questions
or comments. I will call for a vote. All in
favor? And that vote is carried. Thank you. Under council
reports and announcements. Thanks again to council for allowing councilor
Mittdow and myself to attend the good roads conference and
there is a report on file for your pleasure reading
any questions or comments. Seeing none. Also like to thank
council for. Councilor summers and councilor Betty and Denver for
the phenomenal conference, and I was there. Representing AdSAb. Thank
you again. My first conference. Really good. Really brought it
back to home for sure. Any comments on that? Enlightening
report. We have no addendum to tonight's meeting.
But we are going into our closed session at this
time, so could I have someone move that? We go
into? Closed, please. And. This is when I get down
to it. Sorry. This is moved by councilor middle seconded
by councilor Jim Dunbar be a resolve that. Council go
into the closed meeting at 07:56 p.m. In accordance with
section 239 of the Municipal act in order to address
matters pertaining to personal matters about identifiable individual, including municipal
or local board, I. E. Personnel. Labor relations or employee
negotiations, litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administration tribunals
affecting the municipality or a local board. Prior to asking
for council's vote. I'd like to thank Mr. Zagar for
turning on the air conditioning so we all didn't fall
asleep. Much appreciated and much appreciated to you, Ms. Bitner,
for being here tonight. Really appreciate it. And at this
time, I will call for counsel to enter into a
close by. Voting with your hands. Up. And that vote
is carried, we will now be moving into the closed
portion. And for those that are listening. We will be
returning. And going back live again after the meeting. Thank
you.
All right. Welcome back, Blind River. Council is about to
move a resolution to go back into open. Could I.
Have a mover in a second, or, please.
I don't have anybody. Who is that, Daniel? Jennifer. I'm
in open now. So now I'm back
and closed. So we have moved by Councilor Mido, seconded
by councilor Pasta Railroad, be it. Resolved. That council resumed
in the open meeting at 08:56 p.m. All in favor
with this motion, please raise your hands. And that motion
is carried. The report on the closed session included personnel,
labor relations and legal matters, and that road is carried
thank you. And confirming the bylaw. Could I have a
mover in a second or on that, please? This is
moved by Councilor Meadow. Seconded by councilor Betty Ann Bar
Beet. Resolved. At council authorized the mayor and CAO clerk
to sign bylaw 24 34 being a bylaw. Of the
corporation of the town of Blind river. To adopt the
meeting minutes of May 20. 1st, 2024 was passed in
open council this 21st day of May, 2024, and I
will call for a vote by raising your hand. All
in favor, and that vote is carried. And last but
not least, The agenda item number 20, adjournment. Could I
have a mover and a seconder? On that, please. And.
This is. My system is really slow. Sorry. We have
to be another hour till I can get. This. Right.
Moved by councilor Benny and Denver seconded by councilor Jim
Dunbar. Be it resolved that council adjourn at 08:57 p.m.
All in favor with this motion? Please raise your hands.
That motion is carried. Thanks very much, everyone. Have a
great evening.