Monthly Archives: June 2019

Council Agenda Preview – July 2, 2019

29 Saturday Jun 2019

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A rather limited number of items on this week’s council agenda. There are a few items worth noting:

Closed Session c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land for municipal or local board purpose, (CP Station; Big Sound Marina). It seems things are hotting up with respect to the Town’s purchase and sale of real estate.

2.1 – Zoning By-law Amendment. This concerns the number of parking spots that Trestle Brewing Company is obliged to provide. I suspect that there is a requirement for a defined number of parking spaces based on the number of establishment ‘seats’. The brewery is planning to add additional patio seating.

9.2.1 – 2019 Budget Analysis in relation to 4 per cent challenge. This item seems to be a ‘red herring’ of sorts. The Province has challenged municipalities, notably cities, to reduce their budgets by 4%. The Town of Parry Sound’s obligation to manage the Land Ambulance services as well as additional direct billed expenses such as OPP, DSSAB, Belvedere and MPAC ($12.3 million in total) are not in the Town’s control. Asking the Town staff to reduce that expense by 4% is not reasonable. It still would have been interesting to see how the Town might address the 4% reduction challenge with respect to the other budget elements. I don’t think that the budget items listed as “Limited Control” ($5 million) are that. If the Town takes on debt or an obligation it ‘owns it’ and needs to control it one way or another. For example, if you take on student loans you need to manage that as part of your personal budget. To hit a 4% reduction in your personal expenses, and the loan can’t be reduced by 4%, you need to cut by more in other areas.

Closed Session

c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land for municipal or local board purpose, (CP Station; Big Sound Marina).

Public Meeting

2.1 – Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/07 – 1929330 Ontario Limited (9 Great North Road). The applicant has requested to amend the C3 zone to reduce the on-site parking spaces requirement by 25 spaces and permit an accessory structure between the roadway and the main building. The request is to meet parking requirements due to a proposed patio.

Correspondence

4.1 – Bayside Family Church. Concerns with municipal service causing flooding at 4 Parry Sound Drive.

4.2 – Lori & Doug Kin. Objection to Greystone Project vis a vis building height as it will block view.

4.3 – Lynn Martin. Concerns with and suggestions for Stockey Centre recycling/waste practices.

4.4 – Jeremy Cross, Executive Director, National Coaches Association of Ontario. National Coaches Week September 21-29, 2019.

Deputations

5.1 – Rita Orr, CEO, Parry Sound Public Library. Library Commercial

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1 – Caitlin Dyer appointed VP Communications to CASH (Canadian Association for Sports Heritage). Direction. That the announcement of Bobby Orr Hall of Fame Curator Caitlin Dyer’s appointment as VP Communications to the Canadian Association for Sports Heritage be received.

9.2.1 – 2019 Budget Analysis in relation to 4 per cent challenge. Direction. That the Report be received for Information Purposes.

9.4.1 Façade Improvement Project Recommendations. Resolution. That upon the recommendation of the 2019 Façade Improvement Review Committee, Council approves:
97a Bowes Street (Maurizio’s Pizzeria) in the amount of $10,750.50;
47 Gibson Street (Don Corbett) in the amount of $12,427.20;
69a Bowes Street (Parry Sound Insurance) in the amount of $562.50;
42 Gibson Street (Georgian Bay Software) in the amount of $1,250.00;
19 James Street (White Squall) in the amount of $1,525.00; and
67 James Street (FAD Architects) in the amount of $9,570.00.
And that Agreement Letters be drafted and executed by the successful applicants.

By-laws

10.3.1 – The Cemetery By-law. By-law 2019 – 6940. Being a by-law to establish the maintenance, management, regulation and control of Hillcrest Cemetery and Sylvan Acres Cemetery.

10.4.1 – Transfer of surplus lands to the Township of The Archipelago. By-law 2019 – 6941. Being a By-law to declare property surplus to the Town’s needs and to identify a means of sale for Town-owned property legally described as HARRISON LOCATION CL 16222; CON 2 PT LOTS 24 AND 25 RP;42R19262 PART 1 RP 42R19322;PART 1 now located in the Township of The Archipelago.

10.4.2 – Municipal By-law Enforcement on call service agreement with Gary Kloetstra. By-law 2019 – 6942. Being a By-law to enter into agreement for municipal by-law enforcement on-call service and appoint Gary Kloestra as a Municipal By-law Enforcement Officer.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – June 18, 2019

22 Saturday Jun 2019

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Well I guess it would have taken a little courage on the part of Council to have decided to move forward with Item 9.2.1 – Train Whistle Cessation within Parry Sound. It was so much easier to simply decide that whistle (air horn) cessation would create a safety issue and be too expensive.

At our home we are not particularly impacted by the air horns. But there are some folks who are literally blasted by it. With the decision to run trains in only one direction on each line some people are getting blasted twice as much as they were ten years ago. To the best of my knowledge only one of the Councillors lives anywhere close to where they might be subject to the impact of the air horns. The rest live far enough the way that it doesn’t directly impact their lives unless a resident complains. And most of senior staff, who make the recommendations, don’t even live in Parry Sound.

Somehow the Town can find almost a million dollars to buy property on Oastler Park drive for purposes that still haven’t been shared with taxpayers, and a couple hundred thousand to upgrade Big Sound Marina for the benefit of visitors, and $1.2 million on the Stockey Centre so that the facility can lose more than a quarter million dollars a year while mostly servicing tourists, yet air horn cessation is too big a cost. The Town knows how to debenture. This is an investment for the present and the future.

The issue of safety is being used as cover for a lack of courage. Who is at risk if the recommended changes were to be made? It would be people trespassing. So, we protect the people who ignore the law and punish others with the air horns. I sat on a Town rail safety committee about 5 years ago that made a number of recommendations on how to improve rail safety. It was received by Council and ignored except for the very obvious recommendation to install gates at all town rail crossings. That too was met with skepticism by some members of staff. Don’t tell me we really care about rail safety, it’s all about CYA.

The suggestion to do a study about the squealing of the trains is misdirection and a waste of money. The noise pollution caused by the wheels squealing is as bad as the air horns. The railways know how to fix the problem, but they don’t because it is an expense and their only responsibility is to literally keep the trains on the tracks and return an ever-larger profit to shareholders. Employees can die through safety and equipment failures, and whole towns can be destroyed, but there are never any real consequences or changes in railway operating practices. Blame the victims and worry about the next quarter’s financials. You can go online and find lots of information on wheel squeal abatement. The reason I call the Council suggested initiative bogus is that while you can spend more money, do the study, and come up with a recommendation, the railways will just ignore it. And they will probably charge you to even read the recommendation that they will dismiss. Let’s remember the few occasions the Town has asked the railways for even minor concessions, sometimes for just a day, and were flatly rejected. They don’t even reliably address rail stoppages on crossings. A solution to wheel noise is not within the control of the Town. Air horns are in our control. Council has decided to punt. That’s not a strategy for winning.

Yes, it’s hard to be courageous. But that’s what defines the character of an individual, a company, a team, a council and even a town.

The members of Council are tasked with making tough decisions, not deflecting them.

The video of the Council discussion is available at this URL (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cTu1fXRAPPo). The discussion starts at 1:06:55.

A few comments on the discussion:

  1. They are air horns. That’s not what “some people call them”. Here is the Wikipedia link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Train_horn
  2. Sound changes reported as decibels are not measured in percentages. The decibel scale is logarithmic. If an air horn is required to be 100 dB and the actual is 110 dB the power ratio difference is not 10% greater, it’s 900% greater, and the amplitude ratio is 300% greater. According to psychoacoustics 10 dB is sensed as twice the volume. A 10 dB reduction then would be half the perceived volume. How you present data in unfamiliar units can have a major impact on how it is understood and processed. Does it help you if I tell you the temperature in degrees Kelvin? Can you make a decision on how to dress if I told you tomorrow it will be about 298 degrees Kelvin? Sounds hot doesn’t it?
  3. A simple question. If safety is an issue why don’t trains blast their air horns every quarter mile or so even when they aren’t in the presence of a crossing? I would be interested in knowing how many of the fatalities in Ontario occurred in areas where there has never been an obligation to use an air horn, for example between rail crossings in rural areas. People don’t just trespass in towns and cities.

Enough on that. For now, at least.

No, wait. Why bother with this? If it’s been this way for almost 100 years, why make changes? The future of the Town depends on these incremental improvements to compete and prosper. What kind of development are we seeing close to tracks and crossings? What kind of development are we seeing distant from the train? Are investors going to look at rehabilitating the downtown with the train noises and increasingly common air horns? Is that why the south end is so attractive?

Woof!

Presentations:

Mayor McGarvey presented Fire Chief Dave Thompson with the Governor General’s Fire Services Exemplary Services Medal, in recognition of 20 years of service to public safety in Canada.

Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof

1.4.1 – Councillor Backman declared pecuniary interest on item 9.3.1 as she received remuneration from a vendor. Councillor Backman left the room, did not participate in discussion, nor vote on the matter.

Questions of Staff

3.2.1 – In response to Councillor Backman’s request for an update on the Strategic Plan, CAO Clayton Harris reported that currently, staff down to the Manager level are looking at the previously adopted strategic plan to build buy-in support and identify changes thought necessary from a staff perspective.
That a special meeting of Council be scheduled in September to review the Strategic Plan and that a public meeting be scheduled thereafter. Carried

3.2.2 – In response to Councillor Borneman’s inquiry regarding the former St. Joseph’s Hospital building condition, Director of Development and Protective Services noted the owner has responded to an order to install fencing, but that an order requiring an engineering report on the stability of the building is still outstanding.

3.2.3 – In response to Councillor Borneman’s inquiry as to whether there was a traffic control plan for Isabella at William Street subsequent to completion of construction projects there, Director of Public Works Peter Brown reported that there is no set traffic control design for that location with options under consideration including a lit crossing, road painting and/or a 3-way stop.
That the Director of Public Works be directed to bring a report and recommendation to the next Council meeting on recommended options for traffic control at the Isabella/William Street intersection. Carried

3.2.4 – In response to Mayor McGarvey’s inquiry as to the status of the 4-way stop on reported that the 4-way stop is awaiting for school to finish, and that with significant planned advance warning, the hope is to have the lines painted in early July, followed by implementation of the 4-way stop. Mr. Brown also reported that line painting throughout the Town would commence when it stops raining and the ambient temperature is sufficiently high for a sustained period.

3.2.5 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiry regarding crossing safety from Avenue Road left onto Waubeek Street, Mr. Brown reported that he expected the planned realignment as part of the road reconstruction would make it safer. He also reported that slowing down is essential and that additional line painting and new 3-dimensional type crosswalks could be considered as long as compliant with transportation regulations.

3.2.6 – In response to Councillor McCann’s inquiry regarding the potential for installing a crosswalk on Waubeek at the trestle, Mr. Brown reported that there may be a problem with sightlines, however he would look into the matter and report back to Council.

Correspondence

4.1 – Jim & Marian Ferris, 143a William Street. Location suggestions for Georgian Nordic Ski and Canoe Club structures and programming currently operating at William Street Park. Item referred to the Manager of Parks & Recreation who has responded to Mr. & Mrs. Ferris, with a copy to Mayor & Council.

Deputations

5.1 – Ian Fleming, President; Dan DiNicolo, Member, Festival of the Sound Board. Festival of the Sound’s Upcoming 40th Anniversary Season. Dan DiNicolo presented Council with the core goals of Festival of the Sound (FoTS), highlights of the past forty years, new and special events this year, and an overview of the economic impact of the FoTS. In conclusion Mr. DiNicolo invited members of Council and the public to “Come to the Party”, this being the 40th anniversary of the Festival of the Sound.

5.2 – Russell Becker, Community Relations Director, The Gardens. The Gardens – Expansion. Russell Becker addressed Council with appreciation for the Town’s original acceptance of the proposal submitted on behalf of The Gardens for a retirement home in Parry Sound. Mr. Becker noted that 70 suites were created, and that their success has prompted expansion by another 37 suites, including one-bedroom, one-bedroom with balcony, and two-bedroom at 1,000 square foot options ready for occupancy on July 1st. Mr. Becker reported that an information session on the expansion would be held on-site on Monday June 24th at 6:30 P.M. and that an open house would be held August 4th, time to be determined.

Consent Agenda

8.1 – Resolution 2019 – 066. Be it resolved that the Town of Parry Sound supports the national recognition of Indigenous Peoples Day, by declaring June 21st as Indigenous Peoples Day in the Town of Parry Sound. Carried

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 – 2018 Annual Investment Report. Resolution. That Council accepts the 2018 Annual Investment Report in accordance with the Town’s Investment Policy. Carried

9.2.1 – Train Whistle Cessation within Parry Sound. Direction (For Direct Staff Follow-up). That Council direct staff to not proceed any further with train whistle cessation in Parry Sound due to the risks to public safety and potential Town liability, as well as overburdening costs of implementing train whistle cessation. Carried
The following additional direction for Direct Staff Follow-up was proposed: That Staff be directed to continue its efforts to have the railway take steps needed to minimize screeching of rails, which is a longer, more piercing noise than the train whistles; and That budget monies be included in 2020 to undertake professional noise studies in order to support the advocacy of minimizing screeching of rails. Carried

9.2.2 – Tender – Equipment – 4-wheel drive articulating loader. Resolution. That Council accept the tender from Toromont Cat for a 2019 CAT 918M loader in the amount of $171,195.00, including taxes, delivery, and the trade-in of a 2009 CASE 521 E, this tender being the lowest of four received; and That Council also accept the tender from Toromont Cat for a weigh scale attachment in the amount of $11,650.30, including taxes and delivery; and That additional funds required to purchase said equipment be taken from the Public Works culvert replacement capital project. Carried

9.3.1 – Pick-up truck Replacement (Fire Department). Resolution. That Council for the Town of Parry Sound award the tender for a 2019 New Model 4X4 1/2 ton Pick up Crew Cab Short Box for the Fire Department to Williamson Chrysler/UBIC Vehicle Solutions Inc. in the amount of $45,263.28 including HST; And further that the offering of $12,600 for the purchase of the replaced 2007 GMC by Gore Bay Gordon Barry Island Fire Department be accepted. Carried

9.4.1 – WPS Geography Network wins MISA Award. Presentation of award-winning West Parry Sound Geography Network web-based GIS application /portal. Direction. That the report and presentation be received for information purposes. Carried

9.4.2 – Join the FCM – ICLEI (Local Governments for Sustainability) Partners for Climate Protection Program. Resolution. That Council hereby adopts the resolution attached as Schedule A, being a resolution prepared by FCM–ICLEI (Local Governments for Sustainability) Partners for Climate Protection Program to:
endorse the Government of Canada’s commitment to the Paris Agreement to limit global temperature increase to below two degrees Celsius and to pursue efforts to limit the global temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius; and commit to reviewing the guidelines on PCP member benefits and responsibilities and then communicate to FCM its participation in the PCP program and its commitment to achieving the milestones set out in the PCP five-milestone framework; and further That Council hereby appoints Forrest Pengra to oversee implementation of the PCP milestones and be the point of contact for the PCP within the municipality. Carried

By-laws

10.1.1 – By-law to specify claw back percentages for 2019 property taxes. By-law 2019 – 6934. Being a By-law to Specify the “Claw-back Percentages” in Respect of Properties in theCommercial Class for 2019 Taxation Year. Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.1.2 – Strategic Asset Management Policy and regulatory changes. By-law 2019 – 6935. Being a By-law to approve the Strategic Asset Management Policy for the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound. Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.2.1 – StreetScan Agreement for Road Assessment Service. By-law 2019 – 6936. Being a by-law to execute an agreement with StreetScan Canada ULC for a Road Assessment Service. Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.3.1 – Building Permit By-law amendment to include Alternative Solution proposals and fees. By-law 2019 – 6937. Being a By-law to amend the Building Permit By-law to establish a process for evaluation of Alternative Solution proposals; and amend the Fees By-law to set fees. Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.4.1 – MOU – YMCA Simcoe/Muskoka for drop-in recreational programs. By-law 2019 – 6938. Being a bylaw to authorize the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding with Simcoe/Muskoka YMCA for delivery of drop-in recreation programming at the YMCA of Parry Sound. Passed, Signed and Sealed.

The Mayor announced a 5-minute recess and adjourned to a closed meeting at 9 PM in order to attend to unfinished items from the Closed Agenda. Upon the conclusion of dealing with matters in Closed Meeting, Mayor McGarvey reconvened in Open Meeting at 9:30 P.M.

 

Council Agenda Preview – June 18, 2019

15 Saturday Jun 2019

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There are a few items of note on the agenda this week. I’m most interested in 9.2.1.

9.2.1 – Train Whistle Cessation within Parry Sound. Staff is recommending that the Town terminate the investigation of train whistle cessation in the Town. (Note: everyone likes to call them train whistles, but let’s be clear these are air horns. There is nothing about them that is quaint or romantic.) The Town commissioned an extensive report that is included in the full agenda package. The logic behind the recommendation is that the cost of cessation would be on the order of $750,000. But more importantly the recommendation basically says that with the inherent noise of the trains, stopping the air horn blasts would make very little difference in the overall noise. That’s a bit like the health system saying that we won’t treat your hearing loss because you live beside a rail crossing and the difference will be negligible. If you look at the sound plots, which are in beautiful colour and well done, you will see that those who get nailed the most by the air horns, really do get blasted. We are not in that situation at our house but I have empathy for those that are in the path of a 110 db air horn.
On the subject of trains, it has been a few years since CN and CP started routing northbound trains on the CP track and the southbound trains over the CN track. I have never been told the logic for this. The trains approach town on their separate tracks before switching to the designated line. As soon as they leave Parry Sound they get back on their own tracks. My suspicion is that with the ‘oilers’ running crude and LNG from the west the railways would prefer that if there were to be a derailment that it not be over the Seguin River trestle. That would be a real disaster for all concerned. Otherwise the split and assignment of lines makes no sense. It would seem more efficient to run the fully laden southbound trains over the CP Seguin River trestle. There is much less of an incline to climb with these very heavy rail cars. When we have train breakdowns in town it’s always on the southbound CN line that blocks Forest Street. They-just-can’t-get-it-up.

If you have an opinion on this either attend the meeting or speak with/email/write Council. The easy answer for Council is to say ‘we tried’ but it ‘doesn’t work’ given other priorities. (The agenda package this week is large, about 66 MB, but worth looking at.)

4.1 – Jim & Marian Ferris, 143a William Street. Locations suggestions for Georgian Nordic Ski and Canoe Club structures and programming. It’s worth understanding the concerns of these folks. I was as surprised as they were about the proposed location of the structures given past correspondence.

Closed Session

c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land for municipal or local board purpose, (local board property);
e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board; (two property matters; zoning compliance matter);

Correspondence

4.1 – Jim & Marian Ferris, 143a William Street. Locations suggestions for Georgian Nordic Ski and Canoe Club structures and programming.

Deputations

5.1 – Ian Fleming, President; Dan DiNicolo, Member, Festival of the Sound Board. Festival of the Sound’s Upcoming 40th Anniversary Season

5.2 – Russell Becker, Community Relations Director, The Gardens. The Gardens – Expansion

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 – 2018 Annual Investment Report. Resolution. That Council accepts the 2018 Annual Investment Report in accordance with the Town’s Investment Policy.

9.2.1 – Train Whistle Cessation within Parry Sound. Direction. That Council direct staff to not proceed any further with train whistle cessation in Parry Sound due to the risks to public safety and potential Town liability, as well as overburdening costs of implementing train whistle cessation.

9.2.2 – Tender – Equipment – 4-wheel drive articulating loader. Resolution. That Council accept the tender from Toromont Cat for a 2019 CAT 918M loader in the amount of $171,195.00, including taxes, delivery, and the trade-in of a 2009 CASE 521 E, this tender being the lowest of four received; and
That Council also accept the tender from Toromont Cat for a weigh scale attachment in the amount of $11,650.30, including taxes and delivery; and That additional funds required to purchase said equipment be taken from the Public Works culvert replacement capital project.

9.3.1 – Pick-up truck Replacement (Fire Department). Resolution. That Council for the Town of Parry Sound award the tender for a 2019 New Model 4X4 1/2 ton Pick up Crew Cab Short Box for the Fire Department to Williamson Chrysler/UBIC Vehicle Solutions Inc. in the amount of $45,263.28 including HST;
And further that the offering of $12,600 for the purchase of the replaced 2007 GMC by Gore Bay Gordon Barry Island Fire Department be accepted.

9.4.1 – WPS Geography Network wins MISA Award. Direction. That the report and presentation be received for information purposes.

9.4.2 – Join the FCM – ICLEI (Local Governments for Sustainability) Partners for ClimateProtection Program. Resolution. That Council hereby adopts the resolution attached as Schedule A, being a resolution prepared by FCM–ICLEI (Local Governments for Sustainability) Partners for Climate Protection Program to:
endorse the Government of Canada’s commitment to the Paris Agreement to limit global temperature increase to below two degrees Celsius and to pursue efforts to limit the global temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius; and commit to reviewing the guidelines on PCP member benefits and responsibilities and then communicate to FCM its participation in the PCP program and its commitment to achieving the milestones set out in the PCP five-milestone framework; and further
That Council hereby appoints Forrest Pengra to oversee implementation of the PCP milestones and be the point of contact for the PCP within the municipality.

By-laws

10.1.1 – By-law to specify claw back percentages for 2019 property taxes. By-law 2019 – 6934. Being a By-law to Specify the “Claw-back Percentages” in Respect of Properties in the Commercial Class for 2019 Taxation Year.

10.1.2 – Strategic Asset Management Policy and regulatory changes. By-law 2019 – 6935. Being a By-law to approve the Strategic Asset Management Policy for the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound

10.2.1 – StreetScan Agreement for Road Assessment Service. By-law 2019 – 6936. Being a by-law to execute an agreement with StreetScan Canada ULC for a Road Assessment Service.

10.3.1 – Building Permit By-law amendment to include Alternative Solution proposals and Fees. By-law 2019 – 6937. Being a By-law to amend the Building Permit By-law to establish a process for evaluation of Alternative Solution proposals; and amend the Fees By-law to set fees.

10.4.1- MOU – YMCA Simcoe/Muskoka for drop-in recreational programs. By-law 2019 – 6938. Being a bylaw to authorize the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding with Simcoe/Muskoka YMCA for delivery of drop-in recreation programming at the YMCA of Parry Sound.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – June 4, 2019

07 Friday Jun 2019

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Everything presented to Council was approved. The only real item of note was that with this meeting’s green light from Council, the developer is now on the hook to ‘get it done’, or not. The presentation from the West Parry Sound Regional Economic Development Officer reinforced the need for additional housing.

Deputations

5.1a – Gord Knowles, General Manager, CBDC. Introduction of new General Manager Gord Knowles, General Manager of CBDC introduced himself to the Town, noting that he has taken over the position since the recent retirement of Bill Spinney. Mr. Knowles expressed appreciation on behalf of the Board of Directors for the Town’s continued contribution to the CBDC, including support of the Regional Economic Development Project.
Mr. Knowles gave an overview of CBDC, noting that it provides about $1.1 million in small business loans, and that it is about 40% beyond that with five months left to go in the fiscal year, potentially necessitating additional finances to cover loans. Mr. Knowles noted that there is a lot happening in the service, industrial, metal fabrication and tourism sectors. He is seeing a lot of businesses starting up brand new or being taken over by young first-time entrepreneurs, including people coming from outside the community.

5.1b – Glen Barnden, West Parry Sound Regional Economic Development Officer. Status Update. Mr. Barnden addressed Council with an update regarding regional economic activity. With respect to CIINO, (Community Investment Initiative for Northern Ontario), Mr. Barnden reported that the investment attraction strategy, REDAC Regional Bargaining Plan, West PS Digital Marketing Plan and workforce strategy are completed. There is a community network of entrepreneurs available to meet with new businesses considering locating here. There is ongoing work at the airport, with a number of businesses expanding. The Industrial Park to the north has a new acquisition with Four Season Log Homes now located there.
Mr. Barnden noted that with any businesses considering establishing in the area, there is a tour available to showcase opportunities at the Industrial Park, and along the Oastler Park corridor where there are currently 16 manufacturers and 895 people employed by them. Many are international importers/exporters with opportunity to network for new businesses starting up.
Mr. Barnden reported that in terms of retention, economic development is moving in the direction of a grass roots approach, and that with the people he has encountered, he understands that there is a lack of workforce employee accommodation. There was a housing summit in April with local stakeholders, larger employers, businesses, and local government representatives to address this issue. Information gathered at that meeting suggests that over the next 18 months there are 238 new employees coming into the area in addition to the 99 employees coming with businesses soon, and there is very little accommodation; a problem which needs resolution.
With respect to employment opportunities for young people, Mr. Barnden said that there is gap in technology, with computer coding at the high school in its infancy. Mr. Barnden reported that participation at the November robotics demo at the BOCC was encouraging, which prompted the recent technology expo at the Stockey Centre with 130 youth in attendance, with presentations from northern colleges including Canadore on career possibilities in STEM. Mr. Barnden suggested encouraging the school board to incorporate coding into school curriculum and dovetail that with courses offered at Canadore to enable youth to have STEM coding skill set that will fit in with industry and help compete on a global scale.
Mr. Barnden noted that a summer market will be starting in June at the harbourfront, showcasing locally manufactured products. The local production and consumption helps keep money in the area, and additionally may support manufacturing opportunities if tourists buy locally, return home and can then obtain those items through export. In response to Councillor inquiries, Mr. Barnden confirmed that the majority of entrepreneurs looking to settle in the area are in the 30-40 year age group. Coding is essentially what used to be termed “basic programming”, and that with greater automation, any kind of coding with computers is an up and coming sector of the workforce, and a skill set that if learned by youth, can enable them to work globally, yet remain here making a higher than average income for the area.

5.2 – Lisa Cook, Team Leader, YMCA Employment and Learning Services. YMCA Employment and Learning Services. Ms. Cook gave an overview of programs and services provided by the YMCA Employment & Learning Services, information which was largely contained within a fact sheet circulated with the agenda.

5.3a – Heather Sargeant, Georgian Bay Forever; Feedback & Report from April 27th Reduce Your Plastic Footprint Workshop, and; Plastic-Free Parry Sound Pledge. Heather Sargeant, Communication Director for Georgian Bay Forever, a registered charity with a mandate of the protection of water, addressed Council with respect to current and planned programs and events. Ms. Sargeant reported that “Families for Change” has launched, offering a starting point for families to impact change with 49 tasks in 4 categories from which families can choose and work at their own pace and ability. Ms. Sargeant requested Council’s support in helping with communication around this.
Ms. Sargeant invited Council to an awareness event at Honey Harbour on July 3rd, between 1 and 3 PM to demonstrate the autonomous underwater vehicle. Ms. Sargeant said that this technology will revolutionize water quality testing in Georgian Bay, with sensors to navigate and map chemical and physical features of bodies of water, including such things as depth sensors, side scan and sonar. It can measure chlorophyll, torpidity, pH and dissolved oxygen. It can map the underwater landscape of Georgian Bay. Ultimately the data collected could help assess the effects of climate change, water levels, industrial and municipal spills, municipal sewage overflows, bacterial contamination and the success of conservation measures. In addition, Ms. Sargeant noted that at the July 3rd event there would be updates on the Divert and Capture program and mini-workshops given by GBF staff on microplastic reduction and phragmites removal.
With respect to the Divert and Capture Program, Ms. Sargeant reported that there are three prongs to this program being the washing machine study with 23 volunteers still needed for 100 in total and the filters installed by end of July; shoreline clean-up on June 29th at Champagne Street, July 22 at Waubuno Beach; and educating and encouraging the public to reduce plastic litter, focusing on the results of the April 27thworkshop – Practical Tips to Reduce Your Plastic Footprint. With respect to the latter, Ms. Sargeant noted that with only 9-11% of plastic being recycled, and most ending up in landfill, the best way to deal with plastic is to reduce its use. There was lots of enthusiasm at the April 27th workshop, with Plastic Free Parry Sound offering some suggestions. Ms. Sargeant noted that a representative of Plastic Free Parry Sound was to present this evening however had to depart before the deputation, but promised to return.
In response to Council queries, Ms. Sargeant indicated that she would attempt to find a date when the autonomous underwater vehicle could demonstrate in Parry Sound Georgian Bay waters. Divert & Capture Coordinator Cassie Weston noted that anyone wishing more information on the washing machine program, could contact her at info@gbf.org.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.3.1 – Seguin EMS Base Memorandum of Understanding. Resolution. That the Council of the Town of Parry Sound authorize the Director of Development and Protective Services to enter into an MOU with the Township of Seguin for the relocation of an EMS Base to the Humphrey Fire Hall. Carried

9.3.2 – Council Approved Sign – 17 Miller – Prichard. Resolution. That the Chief Building Official is authorized and directed to issue a permit for a sign in front of 17 Miller Street according to the conditions and variances attached as Schedule A. Carried

9.3.3–  Health and Safety Policy. Resolution. THAT WHEREAS The Occupational Health and Safety Act requires that organizations review their health and safety policy annually, and; WHEREAS the Town’s health & safety policy manual is under regular review by the Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC), AND WHEREAS Council is aware of its role as the directing mind regarding Health and Safety of its employees, NOW THEREFORE Council directs that the health and safety statement attached be executed by the corporate officers and distributed to all holders of the health & safety policy manual, and that it be posted on all corporate safety bulletin boards. Carried

9.4.1 – The importance of advance Provincial Consultation with the Municipal Sector and other impacted stakeholders. Resolution. Whereas engagement and consultation are critical to finding sustainable solutions; Whereas a recent FCM survey found that Canadians believe municipal governments best understand the challenges facing residents; Whereas the FCM survey found that 61% of Canadians believe that municipal governments are best placed to find solutions to community problems; Whereas meaningful consultation creates buy-in and builds support; Now therefore be it resolved that the Provincial government be strongly encouraged to undertake meaningful consultation with municipalities, AMO and other associations which represent the interests of the municipal sector as part of development and implementation of proposed changes that directly or indirectly impact municipalities; and That this resolution be forwarded to the Premier of Ontario Doug Ford, Minister of Municipal Affairs & Housing Steve Clark, Minister of Health Christine Elliot, Minister of Finance Vic Fedeli, President of the Treasury Board Peter Bethlenfalvy, MPP Norm Miller, and AMO.
The following amendment was proposed before the final paragraph. That meaningful consultation must include consideration of municipal budget cycles; and Amendment carried The amended resolution was voted on: Carried as Amended

By-laws

10.3.1– Winnifred Ave (W.E.H. Developments Ltd.) Zoning By-law Amendment. By-law 2019-6931. Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for Winnifred Ave (W.E.H. Developments Ltd.) Passed, Signed and Sealed
Resolution 2019 – 060. That with respect to Rezoning Application – Z/19/05 – Winnifred Ave (W.E.H. Developments Ltd.), reduction of parking space sizes to 5.75 x 2.75 metres and additional regulations to the driveway dimensions does not require any additional circulation in accordance with Section 34(17) of the Planning Act. Carried

10.3.2– Amendment to Parking and Traffic Control By-law 2019-6912. By-law 2019-6932. Being a by-law to amend By-law 2019-6912, known as the Parking and Traffic Control By-law. Passed, Signed and Sealed

Council Agenda Preview – June 4, 2019

01 Saturday Jun 2019

Posted by in Parry Sound, Town Council

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Another light agenda in terms of items with significant consequence. Some quick observations:

Closed meeting c). It seems the Town is considering acquiring the Big Sound Marina facility. This is an asset that the Feds have been interested in divesting for some time now based on past meeting agendas.

10.3.1 – Winnifred Ave (W.E.H. Developments Ltd.) Zoning By-law Amendment. It looks as though the development of townhouses behind the high school is in principle being given the green light by the Town.

Closed Meeting

c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land for municipal or local board purpose, (Big Sound Marina);
e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals affecting the municipality or local board; (property matter; zoning compliance matter);
f) the receiving of advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose; (property matter).

Deputations

5.1a – Gord Knowles, General Manager, CBDC, Introduction of new General Manager.
5.1b – Glen Barnden, West Parry Sound Regional Economic Development Officer Update.

5.2 – Lisa Cook, Team Leader, YMCA Employment and Learning Services. YMCA Employment and Learning Services.

5.3 – Heather Sargeant, Georgian Bay Forever; Ellen Walker, Plastic-Free Parry Sound. Feedback & Report from April 27th Reduce Your Plastic Footprint Workshop, and; Plastic-Free Parry Sound Pledge.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.3.1 – Seguin EMS Base Memorandum of Understanding. Resolution. That the Council of the Town of Parry Sound authorize the Director of Development and Protective Services to enter into an MOU with the Township of Seguin for the relocation of an EMS Base to the Humphrey Fire Hall.

9.3.2 – Council Approved Sign – 17 Miller – Prichard. Resolution. That the Chief Building Official is authorized and directed to issue a permit for a sign in front of 17 Miller Street according to the conditions and variances attached as Schedule A.

9.3.3 – Health and Safety Policy. Resolution. THAT WHEREAS The Occupational Health and Safety Act requires that organizations review their health and safety policy annually, and; WHEREAS the Town’s health & safety policy manual is under regular review by the Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC), AND WHEREAS Council is aware of its role as the directing mind regarding Health and Safety of its employees,
NOW THEREFORE Council directs that the health and safety statement attached be executed by the corporate officers and distributed to all holders of the health & safety policy manual, and that it be posted on all corporate safety bulletin boards.

9.4.1 – The importance of advance Provincial Consultation with the Municipal Sector and other impacted stakeholders Resolution. Whereas engagement and consultation are critical to finding sustainable solutions; Whereas a recent FCM survey found that Canadians believe municipal governments best understand the challenges facing residents; Whereas the FCM survey found that 61% of Canadians believe that municipal governments are best placed to find solutions to community problems; Whereas meaningful consultation creates buy-in and builds support; Now therefore be it resolved that the Provincial government be strongly encouraged to undertake meaningful consultation with municipalities, AMO and other associations which represent the interests of the municipal sector as part of development and implementation of proposed changes that directly or indirectly impact municipalities; and That this resolution be forwarded to the Premier of Ontario Doug Ford, Minister of Municipal Affairs & Housing Steve Clark, Minister of Health Christine Elliot, Minister of Finance Vic Fedeli, President of the Treasury Board Peter Bethlenfalvy, MPP Norm Miller, and AMO.

By-laws

10.3.1 – Winnifred Ave (W.E.H. Developments Ltd.) Zoning By-law Amendment. By-law 2019-6931. Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for Winnifred Ave (W.E.H. Developments Ltd.)
Resolution: That with respect to Rezoning Application – Z/19/05 – Winnifred Ave (W.E.H. Developments Ltd.), reduction of parking space sizes to 5.75 x 2.75 metres and additional regulations to the driveway dimensions does not require any additional circulation in accordance with Section 34(17) of the Planning Act.

10.3.2 – Amendment to Parking and Traffic Control By-law 2019-6912. By-law 2019-6932. Being a by-law to amend By-law 2019-6912, known as the Parking and Traffic Control By-law.