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Monthly Archives: October 2019

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – October 15, 2019

19 Saturday Oct 2019

Posted by Jo Bossart/ParrySounds.com in Parry Sound, Town Council

≈ Comments Off on Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – October 15, 2019

Tags

budget, By-Law, Council Minutes, Elections, Parks, parry sound, Planning, Pool, Rezoning, Strategic Plan, Town Council

Well, I was little disappointed reading the minutes of Tuesday’s meeting. One of the items was, depending on the decision of Council, prime for comment and criticism. The item in question, 9.4.1, concerned a reduction in the number of regular annual council meetings. In the end Council, as I expected, unanimously rejected the proposal and returned to the usual schedule of meetings. Earlier in the day I had a chance to speak to a senior staff member and offered my opinion that approving the reduced meeting schedule might not impair the operations of the Town, but it would compromise the ability of the public to make deputations before Council. The optics also would not be good if Council decided to reduce their public face time without public input.
It already is tough to secure a deputation spot for anything that might have come up on the council meeting agenda the previous Friday and would benefit from public input. Many deputations are being used by folks to provide updates, make requests, and even pitch business opportunities. Many of these are better handled perhaps with written documentation. But a letter or email doesn’t get the same attention as a deputation. Perhaps it doesn’t really need the attention. A suggestion – let’s revise the deputation protocol to allow for up to 5 or 6 deputations, but each of them no longer than 5 minutes. If a presenter can’t make their point in 5 minutes they are possibly grandstanding rather than communicating a point. If more time is required they can follow up with Staff. At the least, formally allocate 30 minutes for deputations and consistently cut folks off at the 8 minute point to allow for questions. That may free up time for unscheduled deputations that are relevant to items before Council that evening.

The idea of fewer council meetings may have merit as long as procedural changes are made to ensure the public isn’t restricted in their access to Council through the deputation process. Seems like a ballot initiative that the public should decide. I would also suggest that a raise for Council, at least cost of living, should be on the next ballot. Council is a little too shy to give themselves what is a reasonable raise. If they don’t give themselves a raise they don’t get a raise, even if they deserve it. (It’s a more ‘taxing’ job than most people realize in terms of time and criticism.)

I am listing by-law items as Carried rather than Passed, Signed and Sealed. The minutes have changed in how decisions are reported and I assume that the items have been approved even if not listed as Passed, Signed and Sealed.

Nothing else warrants comment in my opinion.

Closed Session

b) personal matter about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees (Taxi License Appeal Hearing)
e) litigation of potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board; (Rezoning – 1 College Dr.)
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 Keith is employed by the Solicitor General and as such declared conflict on item 7.1 related to Applicant #001-2019’s appeal for a Taxi Drivers’ License. Councillor Keith left the room, did not participate in discussion nor vote on the matter.

Public Meeting

2.1 – Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/14 – 12 College Drive (M2 Developments Inc. – The Gardens). Subsequent to an explanation of how the public was notified of application Z/19/14 – 12 College Drive (M2 Developments Inc. – The Gardens), Manager of Building & Planning Services Taylor Elgie gave an explanation of the purpose of the proposed Zoning Bylaw Amendment (ZBA), being to amend the existing S.P. 26.88 Zone. The property currently permits a four storey Retirement Residence in addition to all the uses in the C3 zone. The applicant has requested the additional use of a four storey Apartment Dwelling to provide flexibility subject to reduced easterly and rear yard setbacks, and a reduced parking standard of 30 parking spaces for 60 units. The portion of the property subject to the rezoning is currently vacant.
Mayor McGarvey invited those in favour of the proposed ZBA to address Council.
Bill Mardimae of M2 Developments, owner and operator of the Parry Sound retirement home The Gardens addressed Council, noting that the original project was developed in 2013 with 70 suites, and an additional 37 has just been added. Mr. Mardimae reported that with increasing demand, the developer proposes to put a 40 to 50-unit apartment building for seniors adjacent to the retirement home, on the west side. Mr. Mardimae noted that the land was severed earlier this year which allows for a retirement home and some commercial uses. As the developers believe the proposed seniors’ apartment units fall somewhere in between the existing zoning permissible uses, thus the rezoning application has been made to clearly define it.
Mayor McGarvey invited those in opposition to the proposed ZBA to address Council.
Keith Smith addressed Council noting that he is not opposed to the development per se but questioned how many dedicated handicapped parking spots there would be if there are only 30 parking spaces for 50 or 60 units. Mr. Smith noted that government regulation calls for .04 dedicated handicapped parking spaces per unit, which only totals approximately 1.2 for the proposed development. Mr. Smith reported that he is a resident of The Gardens, and that there are 18 parking spots assigned for residents, 7 spots not assigned at all, and only 3 spots dedicated handicapped. Mr. Smith noted that there are two residents in wheelchairs and 16-17 people with handicapped permits and he suggested that therefore there should be 17 dedicated handicapped spots. Mr. Smith said that if the new building is going to have 30 parking spots, there should be dedicated handicapped parking over and above governmental regulations, i.e. with 50% of the spots marked for residents, and 30% of that 50% as dedicated handicapped parking.
Mr. Elgie reported that one letter has been received from Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP on behalf of Canadore College, expressing concerns with the definition of a retirement residence vs. apartment dwelling with the latter permitting any person to live there. The proposed reduced parking provisions may result in parking on Canadore property. Fasken Martineau DuMoulin requested that this technicality be addressed, or that the application its current form be denied.

2.2 – Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/15 – 32 Great North Road (Distler/Ambraska) Subsequent to an explanation of how the public was notified of application Z/19/15 – 32 Great North Road (Distler/Ambraska), Manager of Building & Planning Services Taylor Elgie gave an explanation of the purpose of the proposed rezoning from S.P. 26.109 to a R3 Zone. The property was zoned R3 prior to a recent rezoning, and the applicant wishes to return to R3 zoning status. Additionally, the applicant has requested a reduced parking space size of 2.7m x 6m. Previously the property was used as a fourplex, but this structure suffered a fire.
No members of the public were present to speak either in favour or in opposition to the proposed rezoning, and Mr. Elgie reported that no letters had been received.

2.3 – Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/16 – Dennis Drive and Macklaim Drive (Town of Parry Sound). Subsequent to an explanation of how the public was notified of application Z/19/16 –Dennis Drive and Macklaim Drive (Town of Parry Sound), Manager of Building & Planning Services Taylor Elgie explained that the Town proposes to rezone the subject properties from R1(h) to a R2 zone due to the recent installation of water, sewer and storm services. The properties were zoned with a holding provision to preclude development until municipal services were made available, which has occurred. The 20 properties are currently vacant.
Mayor McGarvey invited those in favour of the proposed ZBA to address Council.
Suzanne Young, resident on Macklaim Drive spoke in favour of the proposed rezoning noting that affordable housing is needed, and that with the location’s proximity to a local elementary school, it ought to attract young families. With the requirement for water, sewer and storm sewer availability, Ms. Young asked that sidewalks be included in any future development plans, and specifically that a sidewalk be installed on Macklaim Drive for pedestrians, including children walking to school, as the current design with the presence of the hill makes it dangerous for pedestrians.
No one spoke in opposition to the proposed ZBA and Mr. Elgie reported that no letters had been received either in favour or, or in opposition.
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.

Questions of Staff

3.2.1 – In response to Councillor Borneman’s question regarding the status of the Wellness Centre Pool Complex, CAO Clayton Harris reported that a lot of progress has been made by the area municipalities working together collectively and agreeing earlier this year on three important issues: i.e. 1) a simplified decision making process for the 7 area municipalities and 2 First Nations; 2) undertaking due diligence before committing money towards a project that could cost as much as $25 million before grants; and 3) engaging a third party with expertise to undertake the due diligence. Mr. Harris reported that the due diligence is underway, and that while there has been much said on the issue of site selection, only about 1/3 of the consultant’s work is related to site selection, with the majority of work related to understanding what the community’s needs are, capital costs based on those needs and the location, servicing costs and a business plan to address operating costs once it is built.
Mr. Harris noted that the due diligence work was awarded to a qualified firm at the October 3rd, 2019 Council meeting, after all area municipalities had agreed on cost sharing for due diligence. Mr. Harris also noted that there is a federal-provincial grant available with a November 12 submission deadline, which could fund up to 70% of the project, and that efforts are focussed on getting that grant application in by November 12th.

3.2.2 – In response to Councillor Backman’s inquiry as to whether there was any plan for lighting the Town of Parry Sound sign on Highway 400 in the 2020 budget, Director of Public Works Peter Brown reported that the lighting is solar powered, has been there for as long as the sign has been there, and that he will be putting in to the 2020 budget funds to improve the intensity of the lighting there.

3.2.3 – In response to Councillor McCann’s inquiry as to who looks after the now deteriorated Parry Sound population sign on Oastler Park Drive, Mr. Brown reported that it is the provincial Ministry of Transportation responsibility, and that he will have a conversation with MTO to learn what their time frame is for repairing/replacing it.

Correspondence

4.1 – Bill Liggins. Request for Accessible Pedestrian Signal at Church-Isabella intersection. Circulated to Mayor & Council and Director of Public Works.

4.2 – Tom Dowswell. Suggestion that DSSAB budget go towards small business. Circulated to Mayor & Council.

4.3 – Belvedere Heights Home for the Aged. RE: Notice of Annual General Meeting – October 17th, 6:30 PM, Belvedere Heights. Circulated to Mayor & Council.

4.4 – Roger & Olga Little. Request for Waubeek Street speed reduction to 40 km/hour and stop sign at Wood St. Circulated to Mayor & Council and Director of Public Works.

Deputations

5.1 Bill Liggins. Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS). Mr. Liggins, resident on Winnifred Ave, addressed Council with a request for consideration in the 2020 budget for an audible pedestrian (APS) signal at the Isabella-Church intersection. Mr. Liggins contrasted the Isabella-Church intersection which has no APS, with that at James and Seguin, noting that the latter uses a beep, which directs the pedestrian to the button, which has a directional arrow. About halfway across, the APS on other side beeps, helping the person navigate across correctly.
Mr. Liggins noted that with the mega school proposed near the Isabella-Church intersection, there will be even more pedestrian traffic including elementary school aged children, a few who have vision loss and will need safe crossing. Mr. Liggins reported that there are approximately 80-84 people in Parry Sound who have identified themselves as blind or visually impaired with that number increasing in summer months, and that he is personally aware of 4 persons in the immediate area. Mr. Liggins noted that he would like to see the Town budget annually to have traffic lights throughout the Town include APS by year 2025 in order to meet AODA guidelines.
Moved – That Staff be directed to include for consideration in the 2020 budget, APS at the Isabella-Church intersection. Carried

5.2 – Roger Little. Waubeek Street maximum speed limit. Mr. Little addressed Council regarding safety concerns on Waubeek Street where he is resident. Mr. Little noted that prior to the reconstruction work on Waubeek Street, its condition had a speed calming effect, however now he and others believe that people drive too fast on it, exceeding by 10 or 20 km/hour the unposted default speed limit of 50 km/hour.
Mr. Little reported that he did not believe Waubeek Street could be similarly compared with Parry Sound Drive, Bowes, William and Church Streets, and identified features of Waubeek Street, such as its steep hill and curve which in other jurisdictions would warrant consideration of such a street for speed reduction. Mr. Little noted that Waubeek Street is susceptible to deer crossing from Georgian Bay, and that a 40 km/hour speed limit would reduce the risk of collision or injury from collision. Mr. Little also noted that Prospect Street is 40 km/hour to address safety concerns for pedestrians who walk to the beach in summer and questioned why this shouldn’t then also apply to Waubeek Street, which is the street access to Prospect Street.
Mr. Little concluded by noting that Waubeek Street is a busy road and advocating for the posting of the speed limit at 40 km/hour and putting a stop sign at Waubeek at Wood Street out of safety concerns for pedestrians.

Ratification of Matters from Closed Agenda

7.1 – Appeal the Denial of Taxi Driver’s Licence. Councillor Keith left room and did not participate in discussion. Resolution. That Council approve Applicant #001-2019’s appeal and grant a temporary Taxi Driver’s Licence; and directs the Issuer of Licences to issue the Applicant a six (6) month Probationary Taxi Driver’s Licence with conditions identified as confidential Schedule A. Carried.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.3.1 – Director of Public Works Selection – Sub-Committee of Council Appointments. Direction. That pursuant to the Town hiring policy, the Sub-Committee for the hiring of the Director of Public Works position be composed of the following Members of Council: Councillor Borneman, Councillor Horne, Councillor Keith. Carried.

9.3.2 – Parry Sound Founders Circle. Direction. That staff be directed to bring back a partnership agreement between the Founders Circle and the Town regarding the collection and administration of the funds, including issuing charitable receipts for the donations to the Parry Sound Founders Circle award; That the agreement specify that the funds must be donated to the Town, are held in a Town bank account, and the Town has sole discretion on disbursements; and That the Town create a specific Reserve for the funds; and That the payment of the award be made based upon the recommendation by the Parry Sound Founders Circle to the Town. Carried.

9.3.3 – 2020 Council Meeting Dates. Resolution. That pursuant to By-law 2018-6814, Section 3, paragraph 4, Council approves Schedule “A” as attached, the 2020 schedule of Regular Meetings of Council. Councillor Keith requested a recorded vote. (JB Note – all voted No). Defeated.
The following motion was made: Resolution. That pursuant to By-law 2018-6814, Section 3, paragraph 4, Council approves Schedule “A” as attached, the 2020 schedule of Regular Meetings of Council, based on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month with the usual exceptions of January and August. Carried.

9.3.4 – Strategic Plan Resources. Direction. That staff be authorized to single source the resources necessary to undertake the updating of the Town’s Strategic Plan in the amount of $17,000. Carried.

9.4.1 – 2020 Budgeting Schedule. Resolution. That Council hereby approves the 2020 Budgeting Schedule as set out in the attached Schedule “A”. Carried.

9.5.1 Skatepark. Resolution. Whereas Council through the 2019 Budget, approved the development of a comprehensive Parks & Recreation Master Plan, and Whereas the 2019 budget also allocated $30,000 towards skatepark resurfacing and expansion; and Whereas it may be advantageous to await the results of the Parks & Recreation Master Plan with respect to a skatepark Now therefore be it resolved that Council put the Skatepark resurfacing and expansion project on hold. Carried.

By-laws

10.1.1 – Encroachment Agreement – 5 Gibson Street. By-law 2019 – 6978. Being a by-law to execute an encroachment agreement with the owner of 5 Gibson Street. Carried.

10.2.1 – Official Plan Amendment No. 3 and Rezoning Application Z/19/06 – Smith Crescent (YMCA/Wickman). By-Law 2019 – 6974. Being a By-law to Adopt Official Plan Amendment No. 3 – Smith Crescent (YMCA/Wickman). Carried.
By-Law 2019 – 6975. Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for Rezoning Application Z/19/06 – Smith Crescent (YMCA/Wickman). Carried.
Resolution 2019 – 117. That the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute a consent agreement as per Parry Sound Area Planning Board Resolution 2019-061 for application B/04/2019 (PS). Carried

10.2.2 – Rezoning Application – Z/19/13 – 17 Miller Street (Walsh/Ben Prichard Law Corporation). By-Law: 2019 – 6976. Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for 17 Miller Street (Walsh/Ben Prichard Law Corporation). Carried.

10.3.1 – Procedural By-law Update – Permit WCPC electronic participants voting rights. Resolution . Whereas the Wellness Centre Pool Committee established by the seven area municipalities is desirous of enabling electronic participants to vote at its open meetings; and Whereas the Town`s Procedural By-law 2018-6814 does not permit electronic participant voting at Council, nor at its boards and committees; and, Whereas proposed By-law 2019-6977 updates the Procedural By-law with minor amendments: i.e. permitting Council by resolution to authorize as it sees fit electronic participants of committees to vote; and making minor housekeeping amendments;
Now Therefore Council waives the 21-day public notice provision of amendments to the Procedural By-law as normally required by Provision of Notice Policy as contained in Resolution 2011- 242. Carried.
By-law 2019 – 6977. Being a By-law to govern and regulate the proceedings of Council of The Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound, its Committees and where applicable, its Boards and to repeal By-law 2018-6814. Carried.
Resolution 2019 – 119. THAT pursuant to By-law 2019 – 6977, Council authorizes electronic participating members of the Wellness Centre and Pool Committee as established by Resolution 2019-087, to vote at its open meetings. Carried

10.4.1 – Renewal of lease with Strong-Sundridge-Joly Arena & Hall for POA Court. By-Law 2019 – 6973. Being a By-law to authorize the execution of an agreement with the Corporations of the Township of Strong, Village of Sundridge and Township of Joly, operators of the Sundridge-Strong-Joly Arena and Hall and the Town of Parry Sound, Administrators of the Provincial Offences Court, for the leasing of court facilities. Carried.

 

Council Agenda Preview – October 15, 2019

11 Friday Oct 2019

Posted by Jo Bossart/ParrySounds.com in Parry Sound, Town Council

≈ 1 Comment

Tags

Agenda, By-Law, Elections, Opinion, Parks, parry sound, Planning, Rezoning, Strategic Plan, Town Council

It seems to be a pretty bland agenda but looking a little closer there are a few issues that are worth noting and perhaps following up on. It could be reasonably assumed that Staff and Council are trying to reduce transparency and the opportunity for public input into decisions before Council.

9.3.3 – 2020 Council Meeting Dates. The proposal is to drop 4 of the regular meetings and fiddle around with the remainder to have a 2 per month followed by a 1 per month schedule. In my opinion I think that the current meeting schedule is consistent with the obligations that Council assumed when they were elected. If they want to change it they should consider making it a ballot issue at the next municipal election. The proposed reduction in meetings will reduce the opportunities for the Public to interact with Council and present their positions by means of the Deputation process. This has too many transparency ramifications with enough intangible benefits to Council and Staff to permit Council to make the decision on behalf of the taxpayers of this Town.

9.4.1 – 2020 Budgeting Schedule. The proposed schedule has no allowance for a public presentation and then the possibility for taxpayers to provide input into the Budget. Our Town – Our Taxes – Our Budget.

10.1.1 – Encroachment Agreement – 5 Gibson Street. This is the tip of an iceberg. In this case a property has minimally encroached on a Town road allowance for some time and the property owner wants the Town to approve/permit the existing encroachment by agreement. This case seems to be pretty innocuous, but it is something that goes on in numerous places in Town. Why is it an issue? In most cases there is a much larger piece of property involved and these property owners get the exclusive use of land they did not purchase, a saved sum, and they don’t pay property taxes on it, another savings. If there is encroachment and the Town wishes to grant permission to occupy, even only if temporary (years), then there should be an annual lease amount for the land added to the property tax.

If you have an opinion on what’s before Council the time is short to provide your input with Thanksgiving on Monday.

Closed Session

b) personal matter about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees (Taxi License Appeal Hearing)

Public Meeting

2.1 Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/14 – 12 College Drive (M2 Developments Inc. – The Gardens)

2.2 Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/15 – 32 Great North Road (Distler/Ambraska)

2.3 Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/16 – Dennis Drive and Macklaim Drive (Town of Parry Sound)

Correspondence

4.1 – Bill Liggins. Request for Accessible Traffic Signal at Church-Isabella intersection.

4.2 – Tom Dowswell. Suggestion that DSSAB budget go towards small business.

4.3 – Belvedere Heights Home for the Aged. Notice of Annual General Meeting – October 17th, 6:30 PM, Belvedere Heights

Deputations

5.1 – Bill Liggins. Accessible Traffic Signals (ATS).

5.2 – Roger & Olga Little. Waubeek Street maximum speed limit.

5.3 – Fritz Distler. Parry Sound Drive sewer concerns.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.3.1 – Director of Public Works Selection – Sub-Committee of Council Appointments. Direction. That pursuant to the Town hiring policy, the Sub-Committee for the hiring of the Director of Public Works position be composed of the following Members of Council: (Presumably to be completed at the meeting.)

9.3.2 – Parry Sound Founders Circle. Spokesperson: Clayton Harris, CAO. (Read the full agenda for information, it’s really about tax deductible charitable receipts.)

9.3.3 – 2020 Council Meeting Dates. Resolution. That pursuant to By-law 2018-6814, Section 3, paragraph 4, Council approves Schedule “A” as attached, the 2020 schedule of Regular Meetings of Council.

9.3.4 – Strategic Plan Resources. Direction. That staff be authorized to single source the resources necessary to undertake the updating of the Town’s Strategic Plan in the amount of $17,000.

9.4.1 – 2020 Budgeting Schedule. Resolution. That Council hereby approves the 2020 Budgeting Schedule as set out in the attached Schedule “A”.

9.5.1 – Skatepark. Resolution. Whereas Council through the 2019 Budget, approved the development of a comprehensive Parks & Recreation Master Plan, and Whereas the 2019 budget also allocated $30,000 towards skatepark resurfacing and expansion; and Whereas it may be advantageous to await the results of the Parks & Recreation Master Plan with respect to a skatepark Now therefore be it resolved that Council put the Skatepark resurfacing and expansion project on hold.

By-laws

10.1.1 – Encroachment Agreement – 5 Gibson Street. By-law 2019 – 6978. Being a by-law to execute an encroachment agreement with the owner of 5 Gibson Street.

10.2.1 – Official Plan Amendment No. 3 and Rezoning Application Z/19/06 – Smith Crescent (YMCA/Wickman).
By-Law 2019 – 6974. Being a By-law to Adopt Official Plan Amendment No. 3 – Smith Crescent (YMCA/Wickman)
By-Law 2019 – 6975. Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for Rezoning Application Z/19/06 – Smith Crescent (YMCA/Wickman)
Resolution: That the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute a consent agreement as per Parry Sound Area Planning Board Resolution 2019-061 for application B/04/2019 (PS).

10.2.2 – Rezoning Application – Z/19/13 – 17 Miller Street (Walsh/Ben Prichard Law Corporation). By-Law: 2019 – 6976. Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for 17 Miller Street (Walsh/Ben Prichard Law Corporation).

10.3.1 – Procedural By-law Update – Permit WCPC electronic participants voting rights. Resolution. Whereas the Wellness Centre Pool Committee established by the seven area municipalities, is desirous of enabling electronic participants to vote at its open meetings, and
Whereas the Town`s Procedural By-law 2018-6814 does not permit electronic participant voting at Council, nor at its boards and committees; and, Whereas proposed By-law 2019-6977 updates the Procedural By-law with minor amendments: i.e. permitting Council by resolution to authorize as it sees fit electronic participants of committees to vote; and making minor housekeeping amendments; Now Therefore Council waives the 21-day public notice provision of amendments to the Procedural By-law as normally required by Provision of Notice Policy as contained in Resolution 2011- 242.
By-law 2019 – 6977. Being a By-law to govern and regulate the proceedings of Council of The Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound, its Committees and where applicable, its Boards and to repeal By-law 2018-6814.
Resolution. THAT pursuant to By-law 2019 – 6977, Council authorizes electronic participating members of the Wellness Centre and Pool Committee as established by Resolution 2019-087, to vote at its open meetings.

10.4.1 – Renewal of lease with Strong-Sundridge-Joly Arena & Hall for POA Court. By-Law 2019 – 6973. Being a By-law to authorize the execution of an agreement with the Corporations of the Township of Strong, Village of Sundridge and Township of Joly, operators of the Sundridge-Strong-Joly Arena and Hall and the Town of Parry Sound, Administrators of the Provincial Offences Court, for the leasing of court facilities.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – October 1, 2019

04 Friday Oct 2019

Posted by Jo Bossart/ParrySounds.com in Parry Sound, Town Council

≈ Comments Off on Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – October 1, 2019

Tags

By-Law, Council Minutes, DBA, parry sound, Planning, Pool, Rezoning, Town Council, train, Water Management

No surprises; decisions and discussion are provided below.

Public Meeting

2.1 – Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/12 – 11 Miller Street (John Jackson Planner Inc. on Behalf of Brian Moore). Subsequent to an explanation of how the public was notified of application Z/19/12 – 11 Miller Street, 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 and Committee of Adjustment Application A11-01 to permit an additional dwelling unit within a proposed building. The lands are currently permitted 10 residential units between two buildings, and it is now proposed to contain 11 units between two buildings. 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 this property has been a converted dwelling for many years, and that a number of years ago Mr. Moore got a Committee of Adjustment approval for an additional dwelling. He was about to renovate it but found that he has capacity to add one more dwelling unit and rather than go back to the Committee and apply for an additional minor variance, he is applying for a rezoning to allow for one more unit over his entitlement. Mr. Jackson reported that one parking spot is allocated for each of the 11 units, although at most, no more than two tenants drive automobiles and there shouldn’t be a parking issue. Mr. Jackson concluded by noting that these units fall within the definition of affordable housing which planners can support.
No one spoke in opposition to the proposed ZBA and Mr. Elgie reported that no letters had been received either in favour or, or in opposition.

2.2 – Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/13 – 17 Miller Street (Walsh/Ben Prichard Law Corporation). Subsequent to an explanation of how the public was notified of application Z/19/13 – 17 Miller Street, Manager of Building & Planning Services Taylor Elgie gave an explanation of the purpose of the proposed ZBA, being to amend the C1 zone to permit a basement apartment unit. The Zoning By-law requires that accessory units be above or behind commercial units.
No one spoke either in favour of, or in opposition to the proposed ZBA and Mr. Elgie reported that no letters had been received either in favour or, or in opposition.

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 the recent work at the CNR track at William Street and the street closed for part of today, Director of Public Works Peter Brown reported that CN had contacted him last week advising of track repairs scheduled this week between Cascade Street crossing and William Street bridge, requiring closure at the William Street bridge today, tomorrow and parts of Thursday and Friday.

3.2.2 – In response to Councillor McCann’s inquiry regarding complaints from Meadow, Beaver and Queen Street areas regarding presence of an unpleasant odour, Director of Public Works Peter Brown reported that he had not yet heard of this complaint, and recommended that the complainants contact Public Works staff directly in order that the odour can be tracked.

Correspondence

4.1 – Madeline & Albert Archibald, Georgian Bay Ave. Flooding at Georgian Bay Ave. Circulated to Mayor & Council and Referred to the Director of Public Works.

4.2 – Dave & Anne MacLennan, Georgian Bay Ave. Flooding at Georgian Bay Ave. Circulated to Mayor & Council and Referred to the Director of Public Works.

4.3 – Dave & Sheila Ord, Georgian Bay Ave. Flooding at Georgian Bay Ave. Circulated to Mayor & Council and Referred to the Director of Public Works.

4.4 – Susan Hrycyna, Executive Director, PS Downtown Business Association. Resignation of Dan DiNicolo from Board of Directors. Circulated to Mayor & Council and filed.

4.5 – Hector Lebert, Poppy Chairman, Royal Canadian Legion Branch #117. Remembrance Day activities. Circulated to Mayor & Council with tag day and raising of poppy flag covered by item 8.1 on the Agenda.

4.6 – Georgian Bay Native Non Profit Homes Incorporated. Partnership proposal to build housing with Wellness Centre & Pool. Circulated to Mayor & Council, with an acknowledgement letter of receipt sent.

4.7 – Parry Sound Affordable Housing Development Corporation. Partnership proposal to build housing with Wellness Centre & Pool. Circulated to Mayor & Council, with an acknowledgement letter of receipt sent.

Deputations

5.1 – Butch Folland. Mr. Folland addressed Council with respect to flooding on Georgian Bay Ave. of eleven of the fifteen townhouse units known as the Cedars. Mr. Folland noted that the units are all on a concrete slab at grade and share a common roof. Mr. Folland reported that he is a new resident there and of his unit has observed that during heavy rains, water lands on the roof, runs down the eaves, down a downpipe, then flows into a pipe buried under his small front lawn. As rain continues to fall, water backs up this pipe and spills onto the cobblestone walkway leading to his front entrance where it pools because there is not enough slope at that area to direct the water away from the building. Mr. Folland reported that in the winter it is worse because the ground is frozen and cannot absorb water, a situation which caused his home to flood in March. Baseboards pulled away, chesterfield was water stained, and rug was destroyed.
Mr. Folland requested that as a priority, Council install a storm drainage pipe running the length of the properties with a link to each townhouse unit. According to Mr. Folland, although this will not solve the problem completely, it will be a step in the right direction. Mr. Folland provided additional details of the work he has done this year in preparation for potential winter flooding when he will not be in Parry Sound, as well as details of the measures that other residents have and are taking.
Mr. Folland reported that he was pleased with the response by Director of Public Works Peter Brown who visited the property, and agreed that the solution is to install a storm drain in front of and link to the townhouses, and that he would include that proposal in the upcoming budget. Mr. Folland requested that Council approve Mr. Brown’s proposal. Mr. Folland concluded by expressing compliments and appreciation for the help he had received from various staff members in response to his inquiries as he researched this issue.

In response to the Mayor’s suggestion, the following motion to direct staff on follow-up was made: That Council hereby directs Director of Public Works Peter Brown to do the engineering costs to correct the drainage problem at Georgian Bay Avenue, so that it can be put in the budget for 2020. Carried

5.2 – Margaret Gain. Flooding at 12 Georgian Bay Ave. Ms. Margaret Gain similarly addressed Council regarding the lack of proper drainage from the Georgian Bay Ave. properties to the street, and the consequent flooding of many of the units. Ms. Gain reported on a specific incident in March when she and others spent all day until midnight scooping water from her walk so it would not flood her home. Ms. Gain reported on what measures she has taken to address the problem including digging up and replacing her front walk, replacing a drainage pipe, having snow removed from her front lawn, and installing heating cables.
Ms. Gain reported that Director of Public Works Peter Brown has acknowledged the problem and promised to add money in the 2020 Public Works budget to address it. Ms. Gain concluded by requesting that the Town support this proposal and that her letter and other letters be brought back at budget time, so as not to lose sight of this issue.

Mayor & Councillors’ Reports

Council agreed to Mayor McGarvey’s direction:
That subsequent to the report at the September 27th District of Parry Sound Municipal Association by Medical Officer of Health Jim Chirico regarding provincial funding cuts resulting in use of reserves in 2020 and projected funding increase of 39% by 2021 downloaded on to municipalities, that Staff have a conversation with the North Bay Parry Sound District Public Health Unit to find out the status, since reserves should not be used to fund this shortfall, and earlier provincial promises were that if provincial funding cuts resulted in more than a 10% increase to municipalities, the province would step in.

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. Carried
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. Carried

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. Carried

9.1.3 – Successful Audit report for the Town of Parry Sound DWQMS Version 2. Direction. That Council receive the Report on the successful audit for the Town of Parry Sound DWQMS Version 2 for information only. Carried

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. Carried

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. Passed, Signed & Sealed.

Resolution 2019 – 108. 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. Carried

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). Passed, Signed & Sealed.

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). Passed, Signed & Sealed.

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. Passed, Signed & Sealed.

10.2.5 – Building Permit By-law Amendment – Refund Policy. By-law 2019 – 6971. Being a by-law to amend Table C2 of by-law 2005-4847 – “The Building By-law”. Passed, Signed & Sealed.

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