Monthly Archives: September 2019

Council Agenda Preview – October 1, 2019

28 Saturday Sep 2019

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What’s a better reminder that winter is just around the corner – fall colours, crisp nights, or the Town’s awarding of snow plowing and salt/sand supply contracts?

There really isn’t much to note in this week’s agenda. Take a quick look at the summary below to see if there’s anything that catches your attention. Additional details are available with the full council packages available at the Town’s website.

Some folks may be interested in Items 4.6 and 4.7.

Public Meeting

2.1 – Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/12 – 11 Miller Street (John Jackson Planner Inc. on Behalf of Brian Moore).

2.2 – Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/13 – 17 Miller Street (Walsh/Ben Prichard Law Corporation).

Correspondence

4.1 – Madeline & Albert Archibald, Georgian Bay Ave. Flooding at Georgian Bay Ave.

4.2 – Dave & Anne MacLennan, Georgian Bay Ave. Flooding at Georgian Bay Ave.

4.3 – Dave & Sheila Ord, Georgian Bay Ave. Flooding at Georgian Bay Ave.

4.4 – Susan Hrycyna, Executive Director, PS Downtown Business Association Resignation of Dan DiNicolo from Board of Directors.

4.5 – Hector Lebert, Poppy Chairman, Royal Canadian Legion Branch #117. Remembrance Day activities.

4.6 – Georgian Bay Native Non Profit Homes Incorporated. Partnership proposal to build housing with Wellness Centre & Pool.

4.7 – Parry Sound Affordable Housing Development Corporation. Partnership proposal to build housing with Wellness Centre & Pool.

Deputations

5.1 – Madeline & Albert Archibald

5.2 – Butch Folland

5.3 – Margaret Gain (attendance TBC). Flooding at Georgian Bay Ave.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 – RFQ – Gravel and Winter Sand.
Resolution. That Council accepts the quotation from Fowler Construction for Granular A gravel in the amount of $16.10 per tonne, including taxes, for the Winter 2019 to Spring 2021 term, this quotation being the only one received.
Resolution. That Council accepts the quotation from Fowler Construction to supply, deliver, blend, and stack winter sand in the amount of $18.08 per tonne, including taxes, for the Winter 2019 to Spring 2021 term, this quotation being the only one received.

9.1.2 – Tender – Snow Plowing Town Lots.
Resolution. That Council award the tender for snow plowing all ten municipal parking lots and facilities to Schlager Inc., in the combined total of $743.53, including HST, per plowing event, this tender being the lowest overall of three tenders received.

9.1.3 – Successful Audit report for the Town of Parry Sound DWQMS Version 2.
Direction. DWQMS Version 2 for information only.

9.2.1 – Local Services Policy.
Resolution. That Council adopts the Local Services Policy for the Town of Parry Sound, as per the attached Schedule “A”; and That Resolution 2006-71 be rescinded.

By-laws

10.2.1 – Site Plan Control By-law Amendment.
By-law 2019 – 6967. Being a By-law to Amend By-law 2017-6723, (as amended by By-law 2018-6843), to require Site Plan Control pursuant to Section 41 of the Planning Act.
Resolution. That Council waive any application fees related to a site plan control application which apply to Section 4.3 of By-law 2017-6723, as amended;
and That the general intent of Section 4.3 and Council is to beautify the streetscape by reducing the amount of parking spaces in the front yard, clearly defining driveways, revegetating and maintaining greenspace.

10.2.2 – Validation By-law – 61 and 63 William Street – Karvonen.
By-law 2019 – 6968. Being a By-law to permit the Parry Sound Area Planning Board to issue a Certificate of Validation for 61 and 63 William Street (Karvonen)

10.2.3 – Rezoning Application – Z/19/04 – 14/16 William Street (Henry).
By-Law 2019 – 6969. Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for 14/16 William Street (Henry).

10.2.4 – Sign By-law Amendment – Blade Signs.
By-law 2019 – 6970. Being a by-law to amend the sign by-law; add Blade Sign type.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – September 17, 2019

18 Wednesday Sep 2019

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There were no surprises at this past week’s meeting of Town of Parry Sound Council, so no comments on my part. The Special Meeting summary minutes can be found at the end of the meeting.

Closed Session

e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board, (property matter);
f) the receiving of advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose, (property matter);

Public Meeting

2.1 – Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/09 – 14-16 William Street (Henry). Subsequent to an explanation of how the public was notified of application Z/19/09 – 14-16 William Street (Henry), Manager of Building & Planning Services Taylor Elgie gave an explanation of the purpose of the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment (ZBA), being to amend the C1 zone to permit five residential units within the existing structure in addition to all the uses in the C1 zone. Currently the building has four residential units and a vacant commercial unit.
No one spoke in favour of, or in opposition to the proposed ZBA and Mr. Elgie reported that no letters have been received either in favour of, or in opposition to the proposed ZBA.

2.2 – Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/10 – 78 Great North Road (John Jackson Planner on Behalf of Parry Property Holdings Ltd). Subsequent to an explanation of how the public was notified of application Z/19/10 – 78 Great North Road (John Jackson Planner on Behalf of Parry Property Holdings Ltd), Manager of Building & Planning Services Taylor Elgie gave an explanation of the purpose of the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment (ZBA), being to amend the R2 zone to permit two additional dwelling units in an existing dwelling, and two additional units within an existing duplex, and a parking standard of one parking space per dwelling unit. Currently the total number of units is three, but the applicant ultimately requests seven units total between the two existing structures.
Mayor McGarvey invited those in favour of the proposed ZBA to address Council. John Jackson, agent for Brian Moore, spoke in support of the proposed ZBA, noting that the proposed conversion would create additional units falling into the definition of affordable housing, and that he therefore hoped the proposal would receive Council support.
Mayor McGarvey invited those in opposition to the proposed ZBA to address Council. Peter Agnello addressed Council with concerns regarding water and sewer lines attached to the property. Mr. Agnello said that the sewer lines from the upper house with 6-8 people, a lower house with 2 people and 2 other small houses come along his property and attach to the same 4″ sewer line that his property is attached to. Mr. Agnello reported that quite often he gets backups in his basement, and that he believes there are too many people on the sewer line. Mr. Agnello requested that before Council makes a decision on this, he would like them to see what can be done, as he believes there should be one lateral line for each building.
James Campbell of 76 Great North Road reported that he is not necessarily opposed to the zoning by-law amendment, but that he has a concern that if the sewer and water lines are changed as a result of this project, it may disturb sewer and water lines servicing his property that he put in many years ago. Mr. Campbell also expressed concern regarding the parking, noting that the proposal would increase the current number of parking spots from five to seven between the two houses, and that if the hedge that exists there now must be removed to accommodate the change, he wonders if snow storage will be a problem.
Mr. Elgie reported that no letters have been received either in favour of, or in opposition to the proposed ZBA.

2.3 – Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/11 – 80 Great North Road (John Jackson Planner on Behalf of Parry Property Holdings Ltd). Subsequent to an explanation of how the public was notified of application Z/19/11 – 80 Great North Road (John Jackson Planner on Behalf of Parry Property Holdings Ltd), Manager of Building & Planning Services Taylor Elgie gave an explanation of the purpose of the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment (ZBA), being to permit two additional dwelling units in an existing dwelling, and one additional unit within an existing dwelling, and to permit five parking spaces in the front yard where three spaces are currently permitted. Currently the total number of units is two, but the application ultimately requests five units total between the two existing structures.
Mayor McGarvey invited those in favour of the proposed ZBA to address Council. John Jackson addressed Council advocating for the ZBA for the same reasons as outlined for the previous application at 78 Great North Road. Mr. Jackson indicated that he was aware of Mr. Agnello’s and Mr. Campbell’s concern, that he agrees that the old 4″ line is undersized, and he will be working with Town staff to address this.
Mayor McGarvey invited those in opposition to the proposed ZBA to address Council. Mr. Agnello indicated that he had heard some of what Mr. Jackson just said and that as far as he was concerned if the line was increased, and he did not have any back-ups into his basement, he was in favour of the ZBA.
Mr. Campbell addressed Council, indicating that he has the same concern with this property as outlined with respect to the previous, and that as long as those concerns are addressed, he has no problem with the ZBA.
Mr. Elgie reported that no letters have been received either in favour of, or in opposition to the proposed ZBA.

Mayor McGarvey concluded the public meeting with notice that objections to the passing of the amendments will be received by the Clerk within 20 days from the date such notice is given, which objections will be forwarded to the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal. If an appeal is submitted and the appellant has not provided Council with an oral or written submission before the passing of the by-law, the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal may choose to dismiss the appeal.

Questions of Staff

3.2.1 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiry regarding a progress update on the Waubeek Street project, Director of Public Works Peter Brown reported that the contractor is working hard and that he is fairly confident that the first lift of asphalt will be laid before bad weather. Mr. Brown responded to Councillor Keith’s follow up question regarding seeing plows on trucks, indicating that mechanics and staff are working to get vehicles ready for snow weather.

3.2.3 – In response to Councillor Backman’s inquiry regarding OPP reports on speeding tickets, Director of Finance Stephanie Phillips noted that the Town does receive reports through Provincial Offences Act on how many tickets are issued in each municipality and that this information can be found as part of POA Agendas and minutes.

Correspondence

4.1 – Margaret Gain, Georgian Bay Ave. Request for pipe installed under sidewalk to drain storm water from properties. Referred to Director of Public Works, with an acknowledgement sent.

4.2 – Butch & Eileen Folland, Georgian Bay Ave. Request for pipe installed under sidewalk to drain storm water from properties. Referred to Director of Public Works, with an acknowledgement sent.

4.3 – Gary Black, Chair, Parry Sound Anglers & Hunters Inc. Request that Town staff refrain from mowing milkweed. Referred to Director of Public Works, and Manager of Parks & Recreation, with an acknowledgement sent.

Deputations

5.1 – Sebastian MacDonald. Request to change speed limit along Riverdale Road from 50 km/hr to 40 km/hr. 8-year old Sebastian MacDonald addressed Council with respect to a request to lower the speed limit from 50 to 40 kms/hour on Riverdale Street where he lives. Sebastian reported that according to the Triple A Foundation for Traffic Safety, the risk of severe injury goes up the faster a car is travelling. At just under 50 km/hour, the risk of severe injury is 75%, but that at just under 40 km/hour, it drops to 25%. Sebastian noted that a review of data on Riverdale Road from August 2-August 12th, indicates that the fastest recorded speed of the 933 cars during that period was 67 km/hour and the average was 52 km/hour. Sebastian noted that his family had collected a petition of nearly 30 signatures supporting the request to pass a by-law reducing the speed limit on Riverdale Road from 50 to 40 km/hour.

5.2 – Brenda Ryan, Chair, Beautification Committee; Susan Hrycyna, DBA. Downtown Blade Signs Brenda Ryan addressed Council with respect to the first recommendation of the Downtown Beautification Plan, regarding signage. Ms. Ryan used a series of slide photos to illustrate the current state of Parry Sound downtown signage, and examples from other communities using blade signs of varied designs but meeting a minimum cohesive standard as inspiration for recommended signage improvement in the downtown.
Ms. Ryan reported that the DBA goal is to have the large metal signs that project over the sidewalk and clutter sightlines removed by March 31, 2020, and that $20,000 is set aside from the Downtown revitalization grant to replace them with blade signs. Ms. Ryan indicated that all who currently own large metal signs are willing to have them replaced.
Ms. Ryan indicated that in support of the move to blade signage, the DBA is advocating for changes to the Sign By-law only allowing awnings and these smaller blade signs, and that any exemption requests be reviewed by the DBA before coming to Council.
Ms. Ryan further reported that the DBA also advocates that the quality of sidewalk signs and standard of care be included in the by-law.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 – Official Plan Amendment No. 3 and Rezoning Application Z/19/06 – Smith Crescent (YMCA/Wickman). Resolution 2019 – 097. That a decision on Official Plan Amendment No. 3 and Rezoning Application Z/19/06 -Smith Crescent (YMCA/Wickman) be deferred until an environmental impact study has been submitted to the satisfaction of the Town. Carried

9.1.2 – Direction – Signs for Out of Town Events. Direction Approved. That as follow up to the Direction given at the August 13, 2018 Council Meeting no changes be made to the Sign By-law. Carried

9.2.1 – Wellness Centre and Pool Due Diligence. Resolution 2019 – 098. That Council, contingent upon the Archipelago participating in the due diligence phase, accept the bid from CS&P Architects to undertake the due diligence work related to the Wellness Centre and Pool project in the amount of $127,100, excluding HST. Carried

9.3.1 – 2018 Audited Financial Statements. Eric Cavanagh. Auditors’ Report. On behalf of BDO, Mr. Cavanagh gave an overview of the Auditor’s Report for the year ending 2018, from the letter attached to the agenda. Resolution 2019 – 099. That Council for the Town of Parry Sound does hereby approve the Draft Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2018 in Schedule “A” as attached. Carried

9.3.2 – Insurance Joint and Several Liability Provincial Consultation. Direction for Staff Follow-up. That Council directs staff to provide comments to the provincial consultation process regarding joint and several liability based on the feedback of BFL and annual insurance premium costs. Carried

9.3.3 – Reserve and Reserve Fund Annual Report; 2018 Surplus allocation. Resolution 2019 – 100. That Council receives the 2018 Reserve and Reserve Fund Annual Report, attached as Schedule A, in compliance with the Town’s Reserve and Reserve Fund Policy; and further, That Council hereby approves the allocation of the surplus in Schedule B. Carried

9.4.1 – Joseph Street Forcemain Replacement. Resolution 2019 – 101. That upon the recommendation of Triton Engineering Services Limited, Council accept the quotation from Weeks Construction Inc. for the forcemain replacement on Joseph Street, in the amount of $158,859.49 excluding HST, this quotation being the lowest of three quotations received; and That funds in the amount of $75,000 allocated for 10006 (Ditch Witch Vacuum Trailer) in 2019 budget be reallocated to this project; and That the remaining amount be taken from Wastewater Reserves. Carried

9.4.2 – Retaining Wall Replacement at Bay Street and James Street. Resolution 2019 – 102. That upon the recommendation of Triton Engineering Services Limited, Council accept the quotation from Weeks Construction Inc. for the retaining wall replacement at Bay Street and James Street, in the amount of $95,584.00 excluding HST, this quotation being the lowest of three quotations received. Carried

By-laws

10.1.1 Big Sound Marina Agreement One Year Extension with Massasauga Management Co. By-law 2019-6954. Being a bylaw to amend By-law No: 2014-6428, the agreement with Massasauga Management Co. Inc. for operation of Big Sound Marina and the Town Dock, and supersede amending By-law No: 2017-6704 and By-law No. 2018-6858. Passed, Signed and Sealed

Special Meeting of Council

9.2.1 – 2019-2022 Strategic Plan. CAO Clayton Harris gave an overview of the Preliminary Draft Strategic Plan for 2019-2022 from a prepared power point presentation, posted on the Town’s website. Council provided general comments, including support for public consultation and facilitated focus groups, resulting in the following direction approved: Direction for Staff Follow-up. That the draft 2019-2022 Strategic Plan, incorporating management’s recommendations and considering Council’s commentary be brought forward to an evening and daytime public consultation session to be scheduled in October 2019; and further
That focus sessions be set up with various community groups, private sector, community partners, and youth engagement; and further, That a website survey be established; and That staff establish a meeting schedule. Carried

 

Council Agenda Preview – September 17, 2019

13 Friday Sep 2019

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There are few surprising or mission critical items on next week’s agenda. What is notable is:

9.2.1 – Wellness Centre and Pool Due Diligence. It seems that the area municipalities are ready to put a little bit of their money up to start the due diligence and planning process for a pool complex.

9.3.1 – 2018 Audited Financial Statements. 9.3.1 – 2018 Audited Financial Statements. I haven’t had a chance to look at these statements. They are worth reviewing and I hope to get to them in the next few days.

From the Special Council Meeting Agenda September 17, 2019

9.2.1 – 2019-2022 Strategic Plan.Direction for Staff Follow-up. That the draft 2019-2022 Strategic Plan, incorporating management’s recommendations and considering Council’s commentary be brought forward to an evening public consultation session to be scheduled in October 2019. This is actually on a separate agenda to be reviewed on the same night but I thought it best to mention it here. This is the Strategic plan which is now being led by a new CAO and it’s worth reviewing and understanding. There is mention that a public session for the Plan will be held in October.

Closed Session

e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board, (property matter);
f) the receiving of advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose, (property matter);

Public Meeting

2.1 – Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/09 – 14-16 William Street (Henry)

2.2 – Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/10 – 78 Great North Road (John Jackson Planner on Behalf of Parry Property Holdings Ltd)

2.3 – Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/11 – 80 Great North Road (John Jackson Planner on Behalf of Parry Property Holdings Ltd)

Correspondence

4.1 – Margaret Gain, Georgian Bay Ave. Request for pipe installed under sidewalk to drain storm water from properties

Deputations

5.1 – Jessie Fraser. Save the Monarch

5.2 – Sebastian MacDonald. Request to change speed limit along Riverdale Road from 50 km/hr to 40 km/hr.

5.3 – Brenda Ryan, Susan Hrycyna, DBA. Downtown Blade Signs

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 – Official Plan Amendment No. 3 and Rezoning Application Z/19/06 – Smith Crescent (YMCA/Wickman)Resolution. That a decision on Official Plan Amendment No. 3 and Rezoning Application Z/19/06 -Smith Crescent (YMCA/Wickman) be deferred until an environmental impact study has been submitted to the satisfaction of the Town.

9.1.2 – Direction – Signs for Out of Town Events. Direction. That as follow up to the Direction given at the August 13, 2018 Council Meeting no changes be made to the Sign By-law.

9.2.1 – Wellness Centre and Pool Due Diligence. Resolution. That Council, contingent upon the Archipelago participating in the due diligence phase, accept the bid from CS&P Architects to undertake the due diligence work related to the Wellness Centre and Pool project in the amount

9.3.1 – 2018 Audited Financial Statements. Resolution. That Council for the Town of Parry Sound does hereby approve the Draft Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2018 in Schedule “A” as attached.

9.3.2 – Insurance Joint and Several Liability Provincial Consultation. Direction. That Council directs staff to provide comments to the provincial consultation process regarding joint and several liability based on the feedback of BFL and annual insurance premium costs.

9.3.3 – Reserve and Reserve Fund Annual Report; 2018 Surplus allocation. Resolution. That Council receives the 2018 Reserve and Reserve Fund Annual Report, attached as Schedule A, in compliance with the Town’s Reserve and Reserve Fund Policy; and further, That Council hereby approves the allocation of the surplus in Schedule B.

9.4.1 – Joseph Street Forcemain Replacement. Resolution. That upon the recommendation of Triton Engineering Services Limited, Council accept the quotation from Weeks Construction Inc. for the forcemain replacement on Joseph Street, in the amount of $158,859.49 excluding HST, this quotation being the lowest of three quotations received; and That funds in the amount of $75,000 allocated for 10006 (Ditch Witch Vacuum Trailer) in 2019 budget be reallocated to this project; and That the remaining amount be taken from Wastewater Reserves.

9.4.2 – Retaining Wall Replacement at Bay Street and James Street. Resolution. That upon the recommendation of Triton Engineering Services Limited, Council accept the quotation from Weeks Construction Inc. for the retaining wall replacement at Bay Street and James Street, in the amount of $95,584.00 excluding HST, this quotation being the lowest of three quotations received.

By-laws

10.1.1 – Big Sound Marina Agreement One Year Extension with Massasauga Management Co. By-law 2019-6954. Being a bylaw to amend By-law No: 2014-6428, the agreement with Massasauga Management Co. Inc. for operation of Big Sound Marina and the Town Dock, and supersede amending By-law No: 2017-6704 and By-law No. 2018-6858.

Wellness Centre and Pool – Reader Questions

08 Sunday Sep 2019

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I received an email from a reader about the Wellness Centre and Pool (Pool) in response to my Council Minutes – September 3, 2019 post. Because the email raises questions I have heard from others I thought it might be helpful to dedicate a post in providing what answers I might have. An abridged version of the email is provided below and is followed by my comments on a question by question basis.

I would like to remind folks that I did an earlier analysis of a Pool in 2018 and the implications in a series of four posts titled Wet Dreams. Here are links to the four posts for those who want to take a deeper dive into the numbers and the issues.

Wet Dreams? Part 1
Wet Dreams? Part 2
Wet Dreams? Part 3 
Wet Dreams? Part 4

The reader’s questions:

“It’s not that I am against a pool but I doubt it is being looked at realistically.

  1.  How much is the maintenance cost & will that be fairly apportioned?
  2.  How much does the town spend yearly on the Bobby Orr Centre?  On the Stockey Centre?
  3.  How much does the town spend yearly on the library?  It seems to me it is always being asked to pare its (bare minimum) budget.
  4.  How willing have the townships been to contribute to joint use facilities?  Many backed out of the library rather than pay their percentage of the costs.  As for the arena, not only the townships but the hockey club screamed bloody murder when fair costs were allocated – & the town backed down.  Does the museum still receive support from the townships?  etc, etc…………!!!!!

It doesn’t take very many years for the original agreements to be forgotten & for the town to be landed with the bill once again.”

Q1 – How much is the maintenance cost & will that be fairly apportioned?

Answer: The costs will be the costs, I previously estimated that it will cost about $700,000 per year without any building amortization or accruals for future replacement. The next question that needs to be asked is how much of that will be covered by users’ fees, presumably memberships and rentals for organized activities? My sense is that revenues will be on the order of $300,000 if the municipalities want to make the facility available to most people. This is a not urban or suburban GTA. This means the facility will operate at an annual loss of about $400,000 per year. Optimistically that figure could be as low as $200,000 per year if membership numbers are higher than expected and rates are raised. Let’s not forget that initial enthusiasm and memberships may decline over the years and budgets need to accommodate this reality.

How it will be apportioned is critical. The template from an earlier Town of Parry Sound council meeting agenda suggested the allocation of expenses for the investigative portion of the process which has a budget of $170,000. That is as close as we can get to some estimate of how the eventual costs will be apportioned. This suggests the annual operating cost allocations as presented in the table below for each of the identified municipalities. (Note: these costs do not include any construction/amortization costs and are likely to go up by about 3% a year with inflation.)

Q2 – How much does the town spend yearly on the Bobby Orr Centre? On the Stockey Centre?

Answer: There are lots of figures I could provide, it’s something I have looked at in the past and more recently have decided to ignore. It is what it is, but it provides some precedent.

Stockey Centre: Operating losses are on the order of $300,000 per year. This does not include the amortized cost of the recent improvements to the roof and the siding that amounted to about $1.2 million.

Bobby Orr Community Centre: The annual losses on this facility are on the order of $400,000 per year. This also doesn’t include the facility upgrades that included replacing the ice surface and the supporting infrastructure. The cost for this upgrade is about $1 million plus and is being amortized.

(Note: the million dollar plus cost for the Stockey Centre and Bobby Orr Community Centre type upgrades need to be budgeted for any pool complex. The figures for replacement activities are likely to be much more costly. Warm chlorinated water has a very detrimental impact on structures in this part of the world. Elliot Lake is facing this type of an issue after a couple decades of operation. In some cases it is cheaper to demolish and rebuild rather than refurbish. These facilities have lifetimes in the very low decades.)

Q3 – How much does the town spend yearly on the library? It seems to me it is always being asked to pare its (bare minimum) budget.

Answer: The 2019 Town of Parry Sound budget for the Library is $184,000. The Library has largely been well supported by Town of Parry Sound Council in terms of budget. A couple other municipalities also contribute to the Library but not nearly to the same extent as the Town.

Q4 – How willing have the townships been to contribute to joint use facilities? Many backed out of the library rather than pay their percentage of the costs. As for the arena, not only the townships but the hockey club screamed bloody murder when fair costs were allocated – & the town backed down. Does the museum still receive support from the townships? etc, etc…………!!!!!

Answer: Concerning the Museum, the area municipalities and even the Town have largely reneged on their commitment to the Museum. Originally conceived as a joint venture by the area municipalities to record and share the area’s history, the partners have tried to limit or shirk their responsibilities. The municipalities have not increased their contributions sufficiently over the past two decades to cover cost of living type inflationary expenses. In the case of McKellar they no longer support the Museum claiming that they have their own museum. That’s a bit like a deadbeat dad refusing to pay child support because they have a new family. The museum has only been able to survive because of upper level government grants and the Trillium folks who have supported needed capital improvements. The Museum is a building and buildings slowly deteriorate over the years. Somehow the municipalities feel that the Museum should be self-supporting. That is not the case for the Museum on Tower Hill, ROM, the New York Metropolitan Museum of Art or the Louvre.

The Museum is my best example of the area municipalities commitment to working together, intent and action. It doesn’t bode well for any Pool collaboration. There are no other good examples of the municipalities contributing to a shared resource over a period of years and decades. Seguin tosses the Town of Parry Sound about $10,000 per year for the Stockey Centre but that is literally pennies on the dollar in terms of the operating expense losses. The Municipal Airport might be an example, but it really only involves Seguin and the Town of Parry Sound.

A Wellness Centre and Pool can become a reality if all parties participate appropriate to the needs and resources of their community over the long term. If “good fences make good neighbors”, then good legal agreements make good partnerships. Buyer beware!

 

 

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – September 3, 2019

06 Friday Sep 2019

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The Pool and Wellness Centre is on the front burner.

Closed Session Resolution 2019 – 086. Wellness Centre and Pool facility. This was a late breaking piece of information from a special meeting of Carling Council that ended up on the Town’s Closed Session. It seems that Carling is ‘gung ho’ on a new pool and wellness centre. They passed a resolution (linked here) that outlines more detail than I think the Town was ready to make public or was aware of. It’s worth a read to understand the parts and the whole. The document states that the Town of Parry Sound is apportioned $4 million of the capital costs although it is hoped that higher level government funding would be received to offset much or most of it. Let’s see if voting Blue helps the area receive special consideration from the PC Provincial Government. There has to be some benefit.

9.5.1 – Opposition to Changes in 2019 Provincial Budget and Planning Act. It seems as though the Town doesn’t want to antagonize the Province of Ontario and what was a criticism has become a compliment. I’m not going to bother following up on this.

Closed Meeting

e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board, (Rezoning – 1 College Dr.; Property Matter);
f) the receiving of advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose (Rezoning – 1 College Dr.)

Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof

1.4.1 – Councillor Horne declared Pecuniary Interest on item 9.1.2, the Land Ambulance Contract extension with the WPSHC, as his spouse is the Chief Operating Officer of the WPSHC. Councillor Horne left the room for the item, did not participate in discussion nor vote on the item.

Questions of Staff

3.2.1 – In response to Cllr. Backman’s inquiry regarding resurfacing plans for a manhole dug at William and Cascade Streets, Director of Public Works Peter Brown reported that staff is dealing with it on a temporary basis through application of gravel, and that they are trying to get a paving company to properly resurface the area.

Correspondence

4.1 – Eric McIntyre. Request for sidewalks at Isabella-Wood Street/St. Charles Crossing area. Circulated to members of Council and referred to the Director of Public Works, with an acknowledgement sent to Mr. McIntyre.

4.2 – John & Christine Gilbert. Disappointment with Council’s zoning decision regarding 1 College Drive Circulated to members of Council, to the Manager of Building & Planning Services, and filed.

4.3 – Parry Sound Area Food Collaborative. Support offered to the Town as it progresses through the Partners for Climate Protection Program, vis a vis food systems. Circulated to members of Council and to the Manager of Infrastructure & Technology, and filed.

4.4 – Marianne King-Wilson and others. Request to proclaim September 28th as British Home Child Day, and a request to light up the Tower on September 28th, 2019. Circulated to members of Council, and to the Manager of Parks & Recreation with a draft proclamation resolution on the Agenda as item 8.1.

4.5 – Peter Culkeen. Concerns with trees cut down near Champagne St. launch. Circulated to members of Council, and to the Manager of Parks & Recreation who has responded to Mr. Culkeen.

Deputations

5.1 – Oren Scott. Parry Sound’s Official Plan vis a vis Lighthouse Development Ms. Scott addressed Council from a prepared statement submitted as part of the Agenda. Ms. Scott expressed concern that the proposed Lighthouse Development will not protect and enhance the Town’s natural environment which she suggested is a desire of the Town’s Official Plan. Ms. Scott posed many questions to Council concerning the proposed development and its potential impact on a variety of issues.

5.2 – Nadine Hammond, Jim Marshall, West Parry Sound District Museum. Request for relief from part of Museum’s water bill from first quarter, 2019 Ms. Hammond addressed Council from a prepared statement submitted as part of the Agenda. Ms. Hammond reported that between December 2018 and March 2019, the West Parry Sound District Museum is recorded as using 161,000 gallons of water, whereas typical water usage for a billing period is between 3,000 and 10,000 gallons.
Ms. Hammond noted any prior anomalies and reasons for those, as well as all efforts undertaken to try to find leaks and/or account for this apparent water usage, without success.
Mr. Marshall noted that he is aware of the Town’s policy on not providing discounts for water bills; however requested that Council consider the special circumstances of the Museum as funded in part by the Town, and therefore asked for Council’s consideration of at least a partial forgiveness of the water bill.

5.3 – Jo Bossart. Request for Closed Report & Recommendation item. Mr. Bossart addressed Council with a request for access to documentation supporting the recent acquisition of Big Sound Marina, as well as a request for information on how the public can access documents related to items reviewed in closed session, particularly related to property, and then brought forward into open meeting for a vote, generally with little or no public discussion.
Mr. Bossart noted that there have been three instances where he has made requests for documentation which have been denied, including the recent acquisition of Big Sound Marina, the Darlington Boat House at 3 Bay Street, and Oastler Park Drive, the latter two costing about $1.1 million. His request for documentation of the sale of part of College Drive to the Gardens was initially denied and then released as a lightly redacted document. Mr. Bossart indicated that he hoped for the same regarding recent property purchases and asked if these inquiries need to go through an FOI request, or provided through the assistance of the integrity commissioner.
Mr. Bossart said that the lack of transparency leads to questions about the Town’s waterfront strategy; i.e. is there a strategy and does it include a casino? While he has seen plans of 40 and 20 years ago, nothing recently has been released.
Mr. Bossart gave notice that he is providing Council with a letter formally requesting documents supporting the acquisition of 3 Bay Street and the Big Sound Marina. He concluded by advocating for access by the public to documentation from closed meeting once the issue is dealt with in open meeting.

Ratification of Matters from Closed Agenda

Resolution 2019 – 086. Whereas the Town of Parry Sound is fully supportive of a Wellness Centre and Pool facility;
Whereas the CAOs were directed to undertake certain tasks by their respective Councils, and the Town is supportive of the work they have done to advance this project;
Whereas the Town is surprised by the Township of Carling’s Resolution that was received earlier today and concerned that the information has not been shared with the other municipal partners in the project;
Now therefore be it resolved that the Township of Carling be requested to share the documentation supporting the information contained in the Resolution; and That staff report back to a future Council meeting. Carried

Consent Agenda

8.1 – British Home Child Proclamation. Resolution 2019 – 088. Whereas over 100,000 children from toddlers to the age of 18 were emigrated from all areas of the UK to Canada; these children were either adopted or used as a source of labour on our farms and in our Canadian households, and are known today as the British Home Children (BHC); and Whereas there are an estimated 4 million descendants of BHC living in Canada today and Whereas many of these children were settled into Parry Sound and area where they contributed enormously to the building of this town and community; and Whereas the year 2019 marks the 150th anniversary of the arrival of the first party of BHC to Canada; and Whereas on September 28, our National British Home Child day in Canada, in addition to over 50 venues across Canada, Scotland and England will be participating in the “Beacons of Light for British Home Children and Child Migrants tribute” to honour the memory of the British Home Children and their descendants,
Now Therefore be it resolved that September 28, 2019 be proclaimed as “British Home Child Day” in the Town of Parry Sound. Carried

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 – Big Sound Marina Agreement One Year Extension with Massasauga Management Co. Resolution 2019 – 089. That staff negotiate a one-year extension with Massasauga Management Co. for the operation of Big Sound Marina similar to the current terms and conditions and prepare an RFP process to be run throughout the winter for the operation of BSM and Town Dock from October 2020 to October 2024. Carried

9.1.2 – Land Ambulance Contract. Resolution 2019 – 90. That upon the recommendation of the EMS Advisory Committee, the Town of Parry Sound Council authorize the extension of the Land Ambulance Contract (same terms and conditions) with the West Parry Sound Health Centre for an additional year ending December 31, 2020. Carried

9.2.1 – Wellness Centre & Pool. Resolution 2019 – 087. That subject to all area municipalities agreeing to participate as outlined in this report to Council entitled Wellness Centre and Pool dated September 3, 2019, the following recommendation be approved:
That the Decision-Making Model, Schedule A (Attachment 1 to report) be approved;
That the Wellness Centre and Pool Committee Terms of Reference, Schedule B (Attachment 3 to report) be approved;
That the Mayor/Reeve or other member of Council be appointed to the Wellness Centre and Pool Committee;
That Council appoint _____________ as an alternate member of Council in the event the designate cannot attend a meeting;
That the Wellness Centre and Pool Committee be allocated a budget of $170,000, excluding HST to fund the due diligence and governance work; and
That the cost sharing formulae, as outlined in the report, Schedule C (Attachment 4 to report) be approved for the purposes of funding the due diligence work covered by the RFP and preparing a governance framework.
The following amendment was proposed:That Councillor Backman be appointed as the alternate. Amendment carried
The resolution as amended was voted on: Carried as amended

9.2.2 – Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program – Community Culture and Recreation. Direction for direct Staff Follow-up. That a request be forwarded to the six (6) area municipalities and the First Nations of Wasauksing and Shawanaga to submit a joint funding application under the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program: Community Culture and Recreation for the Wellness Centre and Pool project. Carried

9.3.1 – Water and Wastewater Rate Study and O.Reg 453.07 Water Financial Plan. Resolution 2019 – 091. That Council hereby approves the undertaking of a Water and Wastewater Rate Study followed by a Water Financial Plan by Watson & Associates Economists Ltd. (Watson) for the estimated cost of $34,920 before HST. The Water and Wastewater Rate Study with the Financial Plan is to be funded 50% from the Water Stabilization Reserve and 50% from the Wastewater Stabilization Reserve. Carried

9.3.2 -Financial Variance Report for Mid-Year 2019. Resolution 2019 – 092. That Council hereby receives and accepts the variance report for Mid-Year 2019 (June 30, 2019); and
Further that Council hereby approves the expenses for Council members for the period from January 1, 2019 to June 30, 2019. Carried

9.4.1 – Conservation and Demand Management Plan. Resolution 2019 – 093. That Council approves the 5-year Conservation and Demand Management Plan, attached as Schedule “A”, for the Town of Parry Sound’s facilities and infrastructure as per Ontario Regulation 507/18. Carried

9.4.2 – Bowes Street Storm Sewer Replacement Tender Award. Resolution 2019 – 094. That upon the recommendation of Tatham Engineering Limited, Council accept the tender from Fowler Construction Company Limited for the storm sewer replacement on Bowes Street, in the amount of $106,473.80, excluding HST, this tender being the lowest of two tenders received. Carried

9.4.3 – Commitment and Endorsement of Drinking Water Quality Management Standard. Resolution 2019 – 095. That Council authorize the Mayor and CAO to endorse and approve the Town of Parry Sound Drinking Water Quality Management Standard and Operational Plan by signing the Commitment and Endorsement of QMS and Operational Plan, attached as Schedule “A”. Carried

9.5.1 – Opposition to Changes in 2019 Provincial Budget and Planning Act – (as postponed from August 13, 2019 meeting). Resolution 2019 – 084. BE IT RESOLVED that Council for the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound, accepting the facts and sentiments expressed in the City of Stratford’s resolution attached as Schedule A regarding opposition to Changes in the 2019 Provincial Budget and Planning, does hereby request a meeting with MPP Norm Miller, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Steve Clark, and other related ministries on the effects of downloading onto municipal governments; and
THAT this resolution be forwarded to the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), to initiating municipality the City of Stratford, and to all other municipalities in Ontario. Defeated

THAT a resolution be brought forward to the next Council meeting expressing appreciation for the recent provincial approach for further consultation on issues with AMO, so that there is proper dialogue moving forward, and that the recipients of the previous defeated resolution be included again in this new resolution. Carried

By-laws

10.4.1 – Cellular phone contract renewal / refresh with Bell Mobility Inc. By-law 2019 – 6946. Being a by-law to authorize the execution of a contract with Bell Mobility Inc., for the purpose of updating / renewing / refreshing the cellular phone, voice and data contract for the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound and repeal Bylaw 2016-6627. Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.4.2 – Cemetery By-law. Direction (For Direct Staff Follow-Up): That staff be directed to forward this by-law to the Bereavement Authority of Ontario for approval.
By-law 2019 – 6952. Being a By-law to establish the maintenance, management, regulation and control of the Hillcrest Cemetery and Sylvan Acres Cemetery and to repeal By-law 2019-6940. Passed, Signed and Sealed.