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Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – February 2, 2021

05 Friday Feb 2021

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

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budget, By-Law, Council Minutes, COVID-19, economic development, EMS, Environment, Infrastructure, parry sound, Pool, PS Power, Taxes, Town Council, Water Management

There were no surprises with respect to the decisions made by Council. It is always worth taking a quick look at the abridged minutes below in case something catches your attention.

Town of Parry Sound Council Meeting (Abridged)

Additions to Agenda/Notice of Motion
1.1.1 – Deputation: Michelle Ogilvie, Dogs ‘n Dos – re: Pet Grooming as an Essential Service

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – In response to Councillor McCann’s inquiry regarding water main repairs on Cedar Street, Director of Public Works Mike Kearns confirmed that specific work dealing with 1950s cast iron pipes is being addressed in problematic areas, in the context of attempts to deal more systematically and holistically with infrastructure work in Town.

3.2.2 – In response to Cllr. Keith’s request for an update on the Cascade St railing to be installed, noting that the bottom half of the sidewalk is quite treacherous, Mr. Kearns reported that the freeze-thaw cycles have made for icy conditions there. During recent extreme cold, salt applied there became ineffective and staff have returned to apply more material.

3.2.3 – In response to Cllr Borneman’s inquiry regarding concerns circulating in the community questioning the estimated operational costs of the proposed Recreational Centre, CAO Clayton Harris confirmed that the concerns have been provided to consulting architects CS&P who prepared the pro formas in conjunction with the YMCA. The closest facility that approximates the programming envisioned for the West Parry Sound Area Recreation Centre is Gravenhurst, and the YMCA as operators of that facility with access to information that others might not, are tasked with and are well underway in reviewing this issue with CS&P.

3.2.4 – In response to Councillor Backman’s request for an update on funding applied for through Transport Canada regarding rail safety, Mr. Kearns reported that he has not yet heard anything back and will follow-up, as there is a lot of traffic in the particular area on Isabella Street at the double tracks.

Correspondence
4.1 – Krista St. Amant, on behalf of community members.
Request that ice remain in BOCC to resume programs after lock-down.
Filed

4.2 – Parry Sound District Social Services Administration Board.
Response to Town’s request to pay property taxes on social housing.
Filed

4.3 – Chris McConnell, President OPSEU Local 317.
Call for lobby efforts to reject the plan to close the Ontario Fire College.
Dealt with under item 9.5.1

Deputations
5.1 – ED David Sweetnam, Nicole Dimond, Brooke Harrison, Georgian Bay Forever.
Divert & Capture Program Update; Introducing Diversion 2.0.
Nicole Dimond, Project Coordinator with the Diversion 2.0 Program addressed Council with Georgian Bay Forever’s mission, and introduced Brooke Harrison, Project Coordinator for Divert and Capture – the fight to keep microplastics out of our water. Ms. Harrison reported on preliminary findings of the project to divert synthetic textile microplastics/microfibres from entering the water system through the installation in 2019 of filters on 100 washing machines in Parry Sound. With approximately 1000 homes in Parry Sound, Ms. Dimond reported an expected decrease of microfibres by 10% which is exactly what preliminary findings show. Microfibres were reduced by 4.5 fibres per litre. With 3 million litres entering the Bay every day, a reduction of even 1 fibre per litre would represent a reduction of 3 million microfibres per day.
Ms. Dimond introduced the Diversion 2.0 program, noting that 10 million kg of plastic pollution enter the Great Lakes every year from washing machines, littering, open storm drains, blowing garbage and breakdown of in-water products such as dock foam. GBF tactics to divert this pollution include the use of in-water seabin devices, gutter bins (installed at drain openings), and trash traps (installed at storm water outlets). Seven seabins, eight gutter bins and three trash traps will be installed across Georgian Bay this year.
Ms. Dimond invited Parry Sound to partner with GBF by installing one seabin, and one to two trash traps through a $3,200 purchase investment of the seabin and commitment to routinely dump collected refuse from both/all receptacles as well as enter data on trash collected. Data collected helps further public education on mitigation efforts and supports policy change, such as MPP Norm Miller’s Private Member’s Bill 228 which seeks to ban the sale of dock foam; unencapsulated dock foam is the largest source of lake water pollution. In addition, Ms. Dimond requested a $5,000 investment in plastic litter mitigation to support continued public education, for a total request of $8,200.
Ms. Harrison and Ms. Dimond responded to Councillor inquiries with the following: – alternatives to dock foam include steel pipe and thick plastic tubes;
– analysis of the amount of glass in sea bins will help determine whether glass fragments found along shorelines are on-shore remnants or are washed up from the water;
– seabins ideally should be emptied daily; response on the lifespan of a seabin will be forwarded;
– because of the usually tiny size of the litter collected in each of the receptacles, and inability to efficiently separate it into recyclables, the refuse should be deposited as garbage in trash receptacles for proper disposal;
– seabins will collect COVID-19 pandemic PPE such as facemasks which are not recyclable; public education will continue to recommend disposal of these items in the trash.
The Mayor received no objection to his suggested direction, and it was therefore carried: That GBF’s financial request of $8,200 be referred to the 2021 budget for consideration.

5.1 – Michelle Ogilvie, Owner/Operator of Dogs ‘n Dos.
Request for support of pet groomers as an essential service during COVID-19 lockdown orders.
Ms. Ogilvie provided information to Council with respect to regular pet grooming, citing the potential health hazards to dogs if issues such as matted, long hair and long nails/claws are not attended to. Ms. Ogilvie also reported on the safety measures that she and other groomers have undertaken since the onset of COVID-19, making the transaction virtually contact-less, one appointment at a time, supported by thorough sanitization between appointments.
Ms. Ogilvie noted that some other regions are permitting pet groomers to stay open with curbside pick-up and drop-off and that by-law officers in those regions have been told that tickets will not be given to groomers until there is a clear answer given from the provincial government. Ms. Ogilvie asked if the Town could follow suit and allow pet groomers to open and continue to operate safely.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – COVID-19 Pandemic – Property Tax Support for Taxpayers.
Resolution
Whereas on January 12, 2021, the Province of Ontario once again issued a State of Emergency order; and
Whereas the Province has ordered non-essential businesses to close to the public during this time; and
Whereas fewer businesses were deemed non-essential under this newest order allowing more businesses to carry on their business and keep their employees working; and
Whereas there should be an incentive for property owners to continue to pay their property taxes and not encumber their property into the future; and
Whereas property taxes are the Town’s primary source of revenue and it is important to encourage payment to maintain sufficient municipal cashflows to fund operations and meet the Town’s payment obligations; and
Whereas the Province of Ontario currently makes small business support grants available to businesses and these programs include property taxation and energy rebates; and
Whereas not all taxpayers are unable to pay their property taxes;
Therefore, given the Provincial financial assistance program for small businesses, staff be directed to work with those taxpayers having difficulty paying their taxes, including developing payment plans as an alternative to an across-the-board waiving of penalty or interest on tax and water/sewer accounts in 2021.
Carried

9.1.2 – 2021 Budgeting Schedule (Revised).
Resolution
That Council hereby approves the Revised 2021 Budgeting Schedule as set out in the attached Schedule “A”; and
That the Special Budget Meeting scheduled for February 9th, 2021 is hereby cancelled; and, That Resolution 2020-122 is hereby revoked.
Carried

9.2.1 – Pre-budget Council expenditure approval – Computer Hardware.
Resolution
That Council authorize a pre-budget expenditure related to the procurement of computer hardware equipment and devices.
Carried

9.2.2a – Pre-budget Council expenditure approval – Water/Wastewater capacity study.
Resolution
That Council authorize a pre-budget expenditure related to the procurement of professional services to assess water and wastewater servicing/capacity and develop computer models for these systems.
Carried

9.2.2b – Sole Source Award to Tatham Engineering for Water & Wastewater Servicing Capacity Studies.
Resolution
Whereas the Town is receiving a number of development inquiries and it is therefore important to undertake water and wastewater capacity studies as soon as possible;
Whereas the Town’s Procurement Policy provides for sole-sourcing;
Whereas Tatham Engineering is a well recognized engineering firm providing services in the municipal and private sectors;
Whereas Tatham Engineering has significant experience with municipal infrastructure projects and has gained knowledge and an understanding regarding the Town’s infrastructure through involvement in various projects over the years;
Whereas Tatham Engineering has proven capable of delivering quality services and products in a timely manner and has become familiar with the Town’s current circumstances related to both water and wastewater challenges;
Now therefore Council of the Town of Parry Sound hereby authorizes the sole source purchase of services from Tatham Engineering related to the development of Water and Wastewater servicing capacity studies in accordance with the Municipal Purchasing Policy.
Carried

9.3.1 – EMS Paramedic Response Unit Capital Purchase.
Resolution
That Council for the Town of Parry Sound authorize the purchase of two Ambulances from Crestline in the amount of $152,957 + HST, and
That Council approve the purchase of one Paramedic Response Unit from Rowland Emergency Vehicles in the amount of $71,219.00 + HST; and
That said units to be funded from the EMS Capital Reserve Fund.
Carried

9.4.1 – 2020 Economic Development Report, and;
Introduction of Regional Economic Development Officer James Cox.
Resolution
EDO Vlad Shehovtsov addressed Council from a prepared presentation, identifying 2020 economic development activity including COVID-19 and Local Business Support; Cruise Industry; Film Industry; Investment Attraction Projects, and Key Goals for 2021. The presentation is available as part of the Council agenda.
After concluding his presentation, Mr. Shehovtsov introduced James Cox, recently appointed Regional Economic Development Officer with the West Parry Sound Economic Development Collaborative (WPSEDC), a partnership of the seven area municipalities. Mr. Cox addressed Council with a brief update on the direction of the WPSEDC, with its specific mandate to build West Parry Sound as a region, complementing local work as identified by Mr. Shehovtsov in his presentation. Current focus of the WPSEDC is on business retention and expansion with outreach to area businesses to assist not only in recovery from the pandemic, but to understand specific challenges in doing business, and thereby seeking to take steps to remove those challenges and build a long term strategy for economic development. Mr. Cox reported that other work priorities include making the region development-ready and improving engagement between the WPSEDC and municipalities, and that he expected to report on a semi-regular basis to Council.
Resolution
That the 2020 Economic Development Report attached as Schedule A be received for information purposes.
Carried

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Town of Parry Sound requests that the Province of Ontario reverse their decision to close the Ontario Fire College as the OFC is one of the best and most cost-effective methods for municipalities to train their firefighters which assists us in protecting our residents; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT this Resolution is forwarded to the Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario; the Honourable Sylvia Jones, Ontario Solicitor General; Norm Miller, Member for Parry Sound Muskoka; the Ontario Fire Marshal, Jon Pegg; District of Parry Sound municipalities, ROMA, OSUM and AMO.
Carried

9.5.2 – Support for Pet Grooming to be Declared an Essential Service.
Resolution
That Whereas pet grooming is important to the health and welfare of these animals, and
Whereas pet grooming businesses have adapted best practices during the COVID pandemic, developing high standards of health and safety, and making their businesses contact-less;
Now Therefore the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound authorises the Mayor to send a letter to the Ontario Chief Medical Officer of Health, with a copy to the local North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit requesting that pet grooming be deemed an essential service, for purposes of enabling pet grooming businesses to stay open during the current Stay-At-Home Order.
Carried

By-laws
10.1.1 – Appointment of Deputy Treasurer.
By-Law: 2021 – 7101
Being a By-law to Appoint Suzanne Diller as Deputy-Treasurer for the Town of Parry Sound.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.3.1 – Amendment to the Fees & Service Charges By-law 2010-5408.
By-law 2021 – 7102
Being a By-law to amend the Fees & Service Charges By-law 2010-5408 to include an Appeal Fee, Property Standards and Clean Yards Administrative Fee, Planning Fee and Cost Recovery for Damage to Municipal Property by Motor Vehicle Accident Fee.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.4.1 – Lakeland Holdings Shareholders Agreement Amendments.
By-law 2021 – 7103
Being a by-law to authorize the execution of Lakeland Holding Ltd. Amended Shareholders’ Agreement, substantially in the form attached as Schedule A.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

Council Agenda Preview – February 2, 2021

30 Saturday Jan 2021

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

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Agenda, BOCC, budget, By-Law, economic development, EMS, Growth, Infrastructure, parry sound, PS Power, safety, Taxes, Town Council, Water Management

Well, well some good news in this week’s Town of Parry Sound’s council agenda in terms of Item 4.2.

4.2 – Parry Sound District Social Services Administration Board. Response to Town’s request to pay property taxes on social housing.
It seems that the Parry Sound District Social Services Administration Board has approved the payment of an amount equivalent to the property taxes that would be owed on a number of properties supported by the Parry Sound District Social Services Administration Board. The amount to be paid appears to be significant but I will refrain from providing an amount. I am sure this will a major the subject of discussion Tuesday night. I offer my congratulations and thanks to Town Staff for pushing this issue.

9.1.2 – 2021 Budgeting Schedule (Revised).
A revised and delayed schedule has been proposed. It pushes final budget approval back to April. It is not clear from the information provided when the Public will be able to access the draft budget to permit some analysis and feedback.

9.2.2 – Pre-budget Council expenditure approval – Water/Wastewater capacity study.
This is interesting and acknowledges that the Town doesn’t have a handle on the future water and wastewater needs of the Town. Better late than never. There certainly will be much more demand than forecast in the recent Water Report. The needs could explode if Acorn Ridge were to be realized and the properties on Emily Street with fabulous views of the waterfront and the setting sun were to move forward. There is also the possibility of serious waterfront development. Put it all together and supply will exceed demand if it hasn’t already. Parry Sound is becoming a mid-market destination and not to be compared with Muskoka. It would be nice to have a handle on what that might mean for Town infrastructure demands.

9.4.1 – 2020 Economic Development Report
According to the recent Water Report future economic development in the Town will not increase water use. It was obvious that this estimate was wrong, but it will be nice to understand what Town Staff is thinking and planning in terms of economic development.
Note – there was no presentation attached with the minutes as noted in the agenda.

10.4.1 – Lakeland Holdings Shareholders Agreement Amendments.
I really don’t have much to offer from a contract perspective. What is interesting is the summary of ownership of Lakeland Holdings and the various generators and business sectors they are involved in. I have pasted two tables from the Agenda at the end if you are interested in this information.

Abridged Agenda

Correspondence
4.1 – Krista St. Amant, on behalf of community members.
Request that ice remain in BOCC to resume programs after lock-down.

4.2 – Parry Sound District Social Services Administration Board.
Response to Town’s request to pay property taxes on social housing.

Deputations
5.1 – ED David Sweetnam, Nicole Dimond, Brooke Harrison, Georgian Bay Forever.
Divert & Capture Program Update; Introducing Diversion 2.0.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – COVID-19 Pandemic – Property Tax Support for Taxpayers.
Resolution
Whereas on January 12, 2021, the Province of Ontario once again issued a State of Emergency order; and
Whereas the Province has ordered non-essential businesses to close to the public during this time; and
Whereas fewer businesses were deemed non-essential under this newest order allowing more businesses to carry on their business and keep their employees working; and
Whereas there should be an incentive for property owners to continue to pay their property taxes and not encumber their property into the future; and
Whereas property taxes are the Town’s primary source of revenue and it is important to encourage payment to maintain sufficient municipal cashflows to fund operations and meet the Town’s payment obligations; and
Whereas the Province of Ontario currently makes small business support grants available to businesses and these programs include property taxation and energy rebates; and
Whereas not all taxpayers are unable to pay their property taxes;
Therefore, given the Provincial financial assistance program for small businesses, staff be directed to work with those taxpayers having difficulty paying their taxes, including developing payment plans as an alternative to an across the board waiving of penalty or interest on tax and water/sewer accounts in 2021.

9.2.2 – Pre-budget Council expenditure approval – Water/Wastewater capacity study.
Resolution
That Council authorize a pre-budget expenditure related to the procurement of professional services to assess water and wastewater servicing/capacity and develop computer models for these systems.

9.3.1 – EMS Paramedic Response Unit Capital Purchase.
Resolution
That Council for the Town of Parry Sound authorize the purchase of two Ambulances from Crestline in the amount of $152,957 + HST, and
That Council approve the purchase of one Paramedic Response Unit from Rowland Emergency Vehicles in the amount of $71,219.00 +HST; and
That said units to be funded from the EMS Capital Reserve Fund.

9.4.1 – 2020 Economic Development Report, and;
Introduction of Regional Economic Development Officer James Cox.
Resolution
That the 2020 Economic Development Report attached as Schedule A be received for information purposes.

9.5.1 – Support to Keep Ontario Fire College Open.
Resolution
WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College has been in existence since 1949; and
WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College is one of the primary sources of certified training for Ontario Firefighters; and
WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College has built a reputation of integrity, credibility, and reliability in providing some of the best training to our Fire Services within the Province of Ontario; and
WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College has been used to train and certify both Volunteer, Part-Time and Career firefighters throughout Ontario; and
WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College gives Ontario Firefighters another option other than Regional Training Centers to obtain National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) certifications; and
WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College is the most cost-effective method to certify Firefighters to NFPA Standards in Ontario; and
WHEREAS the Ontario Government enacted and revoked 0. Reg. 379/18: Firefighter Certification in 2018; and
WHEREAS when the Ontario Government revoked 0. Reg. 379/18: Firefighter Certification, it was made known by the Office of the Solicitor General that the act would be amended and brought back in the future;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Town of Parry Sound requests that the Province of Ontario reverse their decision to close the Ontario Fire College as the OFC is one of the best and most cost-effective methods for municipalities to train their firefighters which assists us in protecting our residents; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT this Resolution is forwarded to the Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario; the Honourable Sylvia Jones, Ontario Solicitor General; Norm Miller, Member for Parry Sound Muskoka; the Ontario Fire Marshal, Jon Pegg; District of Parry Sound municipalities, ROMA, OSUM and AMO.

9.5.2 Support for Pet Grooming to be Declared an Essential Service.
Resolution
That Whereas pet grooming is important to the health and welfare of these animals, and
Whereas pet grooming businesses have adapted best practices during the COVID pandemic, developing high standards of health and safety, and making their businesses contact-less;
Now Therefore the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound authorises the Mayor to send a letter to the Ontario Chief Medical Officer of Health requesting that pet grooming be deemed an essential service, for purposes of enabling pet grooming businesses to stay open during the current Stay-At-Home Order.

By-laws
10.1.1 – Appointment of Deputy Treasurer.
By-Law: 2021 – 7101
Being a By-law to Appoint Suzanne Diller as Deputy-Treasurer for the Town of Parry Sound.

10.3.1 – Amendment to the Fees & Service Charges By-law 2010-5408.
By-law 2021 – 7102
Being a By-law to amend the Fees & Service Charges By-law 2010-5408 to include an Appeal Fee, Property Standards and Clean Yards Administrative Fee, Planning Fee and Cost Recovery for Damage to Municipal Property by Motor Vehicle Accident Fee.

10.4.1 – Lakeland Holdings Shareholders Agreement Amendments.
By-law 2021 – 7103
Being a by-law to authorize the execution of Lakeland Holding Ltd. Amended Shareholders’ Agreement, substantially in the form attached as Schedule A.

Water Rates – an Uncomfortable Reality

24 Sunday Jan 2021

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

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Opinion, Water Management

Well, I am a little annoyed. I feel as though I have been patted on the head by a teacher who actually doesn’t understand the issue at hand. Or perhaps is trying to avoid the issue.

At the last meeting of Council the proposed water rates, applicable for the next decade, were approved. I’m okay with that. There is a price increase, but it is not too onerous and at least I can afford it. What annoyed me was the statement that the consultants did a sensitivity analysis on the rates based on comments received and estimated that the possible difference amounted to a $3 or $4 a year cost reduction for the average residential customer. They stressed the forecast by increasing the number of new accounts annually from 3 to 20 connections. What wasn’t provided in the council minutes was how that impacted water consumption. If the Report now estimates that consumption will increase by 0.6% over the next decade, it suggests the ‘high connection’ forecast figure is a 4% increase over the same period.

Well, let’s take a look at the history of the Town of Parry Sound water consumption over the past eight years, 2011 to 2019. (Staff, don’t you just hate it when taxpayers save old reports?) The increase over that period was 17.4%, from 160,222,866 to 188,077,355 Imperial Gallons.

It’s interesting to note that in the 2012 report by the same consultants it was stated – “Factoring in potential for further conservation of this period, no consumption growth has been assumed in the forecast.” I guess they that feel if they fooled us once they can get away with it again. Or perhaps they aren’t paying sufficient attention. Or these are the number that Staff wanted them to use.

So, in the past nine years the Town saw an increase in water consumption of 17.4% with a forecast of 0%, for the next decade we are to believe that consumption will only go up by 0.6%, or 4% in the ‘high connection’ scenario?

At the most recent council meeting Mayor McGarvey announced the following progress in 2020:
112 building permits issued
16 new residential units
4 commercial units
1 Best Western Plus hotel

That’s one year of development, and all of that development will be part of the coming decade’s water forecast.

Given the very obvious population migration north and the Town’s hot real estate market do you really think we will be seeing a development depression for the remaining nine years?

I call BS on Town Staff for the report and water rate recommendation. They are sandbagging and covering their asses. While there is nothing wrong with using a pessimistic, and arguably unrealistic, estimate of future water consumption growth, that scenario needs to clearly stated. But, explaining that the scenario was unreasonably pessimistic, and that proposed rates are probably higher than they need to be, would take courage because water customers would complain. It’s so much easier to pretend that the low growth numbers are ‘reasonable’ and avoid any complaints about the rates by stating something to the effect of ‘the rates fall out of the forecast costs and revenues’.

A question – is there any chance the Town of Parry Sound taxpayers will see the 2021 draft budget before it is approved?

A remembrance – Trevor, Christine, Brenda, I miss the courage and transparency you provided.

A reality – ignore me, but don’t try patting me on the head. I might bite.

Here is a link to the 2012 Report.

Here is a link to the 2020 Report.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – January 19, 2021

22 Friday Jan 2021

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

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BOCC, budget, By-Law, Council Minutes, parry sound, Stockey Centre, Taxes, Town Council, Water Management

There are no real surprises in the minutes of the January 19, 2021 meeting of the Town of Parry Sound Council.

9.2.1 – Provincial State of Emergency – Bobby Orr Community Centre Ice Out.
The ice will be removed from the Bobby Orr Community Centre with the possibility that it will be reinstalled if/when provincial restrictions are lifted and there is committed use of the ice.

10.1.2 – Water and Wastewater Rates.
There was discussion and a very slight rework of projected water use and how it impacted rates. It was felt that any increase would only negligibly impact rates. I continue to believe that there is sandbagging going on but agree there is little reason to alter the proposed rate structure. I will be following water consumption over the next few years to see how close it comes to the consultant’s report forecast. I won’t be surprised if there is a larger than forecast deviation from the report’s consumption assumptions.

A final question – when will we see the 2021 draft budget? I hope that it will not be rammed through to approval without community review and input. I am finding that transparency in the operation of the Town and Council is being reduced.

Abridged Council Minutes

Closed Session
That pursuant to Section 239(2) of the Municipal Act, R.S.O. 2001, Chapter 25, as amended, the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound move to a meeting closed to the public in order to address matters pertaining to:
d) labour relations or employee negotiations; (Collective Agreement Union Negotiations; and Employee impacts resulting from Provincial Declared Emergency Lock-Down);
k) a position, plan, procedure, criteria or instruction to be applied to any negotiations carried on or to be carried on by or on behalf of the municipality or local board, (Collective Agreement Union Negotiations).

Presentations:
1. 2020 Order of Parry Sound
Mayor McGarvey presented the 2020 Order of Parry Sound to Linda West, recognizing her leadership role in establishing a COVID Response Committee within the Rotary Club of Parry Sound of which she is currently President.
Under this Committee, Ms. West organized a shopping and curbside pick-up/delivery service supported by Rotarians, Sobeys and many volunteers to ensure a safe, continued supply of groceries to area residents.
Ms. West recognized a need to supplement the Breakfast Club Program which has offered nutritious food items to all students attending physical school facilities. Students in need, learning at home on-line, were provided with grocery cards to be able to get those nutritious items previously provided at the school. High School students also struggling with on-line learning benefitted from a tutoring program set up through grants applied for by Ms. West.
Other projects initiated and/or coordinated by Ms. West included the organization of Christmas hampers, distribution of residential patio planters complete with soil and starter veggies, and bus delivery of grocery orders for a local First Nations community under temporary COVID lock-down.

Ms. West accepted the award, expressing appreciation in turn, saying: “I will cherish it for ever; nevertheless, it has been earned by a team who made great decisions, took action together, attracted support and delivered the services our community needed during this challenging year.”

2. 2020 Year in Review
Mayor McGarvey reviewed development in the Town over the last year, with accompanying photos illustrating building development and economic stimulus initiatives such as buy local campaigns.

3. Coping with COVID
Mayor McGarvey concluded his presentation with appreciation for the work of medical staff, front-line workers and volunteers during this COVID pandemic, as well as reminding the public on means of obtaining latest information with regards to the pandemic.

Additions to Agenda/Notice of Motion
1.1.1 Councillor Backman reported that she would like an opportunity to describe a Youth Founders entrepreneurial initiative. This was added as item 10.5.1 to the agenda.

Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof
1.4.1 Councillor Horne declared pecuniary interest on item 10.4.1 regarding donations to the West Parry Sound Health Centre Foundation and Lakeland Long Term Care from the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame Reserve Fund as these two organizations are governed and operated by the West Parry Sound Health Centre (WPSHC) and his spouse is the Chief Operating Officer for the WPSHC. Councillor Horne left the meeting for the item, did not participate in discussion, nor vote on the issue.

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – In response to Councillor McCann’s inquiry expressing concerns regarding low lighting at the Pine Drive and Bowes Street intersection, Director of Public Works Mike Kearns reported that he would review the lighting and cautioned that there might be restrictions in terms of light standards because of the congestion of transformers and wire-sets and set back requirements and clearances at that location.

3.2.2. – In response to Councillor Backman’s inquiry regarding the deterioration of boat houses near the Sailing School, Director of Development and Protective Services Dave Thompson reported that staff has been attempting since last summer to address this situation with property owner MNR and presumed property lessees who own the boat houses, however to date have not been able move the issue forward, as MNR has not provided requested paperwork confirming the lease arrangements.

3.2.3 – In response to Councillor Borneman’s inquiry as to what tourism marketing activity Explorers’ Edge has or is undertaking throughout the COVID pandemic, CAO Clayton Harris reported that he would contact both the Town’s Economic Development Officer Vladimir Shehovtsov and the new Regional Economic Development Officer James Cox to follow-up with Explorers’ Edge and report back to Council.

Correspondence
4.1 – Wayne Major
Concern regarding wait time & crowding at Town boat launches.

4.2 – Susan Heder
Appreciation for Rugged Trail.
Filed

4.3 – Lynne Atkinson
Request for Proclamation of Feb 6, 2021 as International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation.
See item 9.5.1 on Agenda

4.4 – Layla MacCallum
Request that ice stay in at BOCC, citing benefits of healthy activity for youth in particular.

4.5 – Dan Hildebrand, President, Parry Sound Hockey Club
Request that ice stay in at BOCC, until lock down has ended, i.e. Feb. 11 with commitment to use existing ice time to end of season, including extending use beyond March should the option be available.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.2.1 – Provincial State of Emergency – Bobby Orr Community Centre Ice Out.
Resolution
That Council approve the closure of the ice surface at the Bobby Orr Community Centre in response to the Provincial Emergency Order/Closure of non-essential services.
Defeated

Resolution
That Council direct staff to proceed with the removal of ice at the BOCC; and
Further that staff be directed that should the state of emergency issued by the Province of Ontario be lifted before Feb 20th and, the demand for ice time rental is at or exceeds the current level that the ice be re-installed promptly so long as no other directives from either the province or the Health Unit prohibiting the use of the facility are issued in the interim.
Carried

9.2.2 Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program – Covid Stream – Local Government.
Resolution
That Council receive the report Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program – COVID Stream – Local Government for information purposes.
Carried

9.3.1 Declaration of Second Provincial Emergency.
Resolution
That Council receive the report Declaration of Second Provincial Emergency for information purposes.
Carried

9.4.1 Rural Economic Development Grant.
Resolution
Be it resolved that the Town of Parry Sound supports the DBA’s request to submit a grant application under the Rural Economic Development (RED) program; and
That the Town of Parry Sound provide 50% match funding up to $25,450.
Carried

9.5.1 – Proclamation of Zero Tolerance for FGM.
Resolution
Whereas International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is observed around the world and provides an opportunity to honor those women, girls, boys and men who are actively and courageously working towards an end to this harmful practice.
Whereas this day invites us to reflect on the fact that 4.1 million girls are still at risk of mutilation each year, including girls in Canada.
Whereas on this day, we acknowledge that female genital mutilation is an issue in more than 90 countries and on every continent except Antarctica, and that there are at least 200 million FGM survivors in the world, including more than 100,000 in Canada.
Whereas we acknowledge that FGM has no basis in any religious text and is recognized by the United Nations and other world bodies as child abuse and an abuse of a girl’s fundamental human rights.
Whereas we acknowledge that FGM has no benefits and causes only harm, including death, difficulties with urination, menstruation, sexual intimacy, post-traumatic stress disorder and increased maternal and child mortality.
Whereas on this International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, we acknowledge and celebrate all national and international efforts being made, especially at the grass roots level, to achieve United Nations Sustainable Millennium Development Goal #5, which calls for the elimination of FGM and other harmful traditional practices by 2030.
Whereas on this Day of Zero Tolerance, we call for increased, concerted global and Canadian action to end female genital mutilation, and ask all governments-international, national, and local- to fully uphold the human rights of women and girls so they can live a life free from the violence that is female genital mutilation.
NOW THEREFORE, Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound does hereby proclaim February 6, 2021, as International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation in the Town of Parry Sound.
Carried

By-laws
10.1.1 – Temporary Borrowing Authorization.
By-law 2021 – 7096
Being a by-law to authorize temporary borrowing to meet the current expenditures of the Town of Parry Sound until taxes are collected and other revenues are received.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.1.2 – Water and Wastewater Rates.
Director of Finance Stephanie Phillips introduced Watson & Associates managing partner Andrew Grunda who provided an explanation of underlying assumptions made within the November 9, 2020 Water & Wastewater Rate Study, in response to some comments received from the public. Mr. Grunda noted that a review of the number of water connections made since 2010 at roughly 7 per year, combined with a review of the number of developments approved by Council, registered and building permit-ready helped to determine a projected number of 3 connections over the coming 10 years, which supports the recommended rates. At the request of Town staff in response to public comments concerned that the assumed projected development was too low, Mr. Grunda undertook a sensitivity analysis assuming an increase to 20 annual connections. This resulted in a projected annual reduction of only $3.00 to $4.00 per year for the average residential customer and therefore Mr. Grunda expressed confidence in the report’s recommended rates.
CAO Clayton Harris confirmed in response to Council discussion that staff could provide annual or more frequent reports on the number of connections and consumption as a means of keeping abreast of whether the report projections are on target or not and whether any rate adjustments should be made as a result of discrepancy between the projection and actuals.
By-law 2021 – 7097
Being a By-law to establish water and wastewater rates in the Town of Parry Sound, starting with the consumption month of March 2021.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

Resolution 2021- 007
That the Town of Parry Sound’s Ontario Regulation 453/07 Water Financial Plan prepared by Watson & Associates Economists Ltd. dated January 15, 2021 be approved; and
That notice of availability of the Financial Plan be advertised; and
That the Financial Plan dated January 15, 2021 be submitted to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. (O.Reg. 453/07, section 3 (1) 6); and further
That the resolution of Council approving the Financial Plan be submitted to the MECP, satisfying the requirements under the Safe Drinking Water Act. (S.D.W.A. section 32 (5) 2.ii.)
Carried

10.3.1 – Agreements for the use of public property for Georgian Bay Airways/Tailwinds.
By-law 2021 – 7098
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of agreements with Georgian Bay Airways for the lease of a water lot; and maintenance of a Town parking lot.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.4.1 – Donations to the West Parry Sound Health Centre Foundation and Lakeland Long Term Care from the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame Reserve Fund.
By-law 2021 – 7099
Being a By-law to Authorize Donations from the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame Reserve Fund, transfer the balance, and close the Fund.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.5.1 – Youth Founders Entrepreneurship.
Councillor Backman reported on and requested that a program entitled Youth Founders Entrepreneurship, aimed at working with youth aged 14 to 24 to help overcome barriers to finding meaningful work, be considered by the Founders Circle, of which the Town is a contributor. CAO Clayton Harris confirmed that in the first year of the Founders Circle some monies were set aside for consideration of high school student entrepreneurship, and that he would bring forward this issue for the Founders Circle to consider as well.

Council Agenda Preview – January 19, 2021

17 Sunday Jan 2021

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

≈ Comments Off on Council Agenda Preview – January 19, 2021

Tags

Agenda, BOCC, By-Law, COVID-19, DBA, economic development, Stockey Centre, Taxes, Town Council, Town Dock/Big Sound Marina, Water Management

There are a couple of surprises in this week’s council meeting agenda. And of course, the water rate proposal ignores comments from members of the public because that would create too much extra work.

9.2.1 – Provincial State of Emergency – Bobby Orr Community Centre Ice Out.
Town Staff is suggesting that the ice surface be removed from the Bobby Orr Community Centre as a cost saving measure with the current restrictions prohibiting public use and the concern that the restrictions will continue through end of the usual season. The rink costs $3,250 per week in energy costs. This does not include staffing expenses, maintenance of the building, and capital costs. Some Staff might then be deployed to other Town activities.

10.1.2 – Water and Wastewater Rates.
I have already shared my comments in an earlier post. I will note that Mr. George Ashford provided a well-reasoned letter to the Town in response to the proposal. I know that he ran for Council at the last election and was not elected. I think he deserves your vote if he chooses to run again at the next election. He made the effort and took the time to comment. There is at least one not so pretty face on Council who seems to be asleep and perhaps should be given every second Tuesday evening off to catch a few winks.

10.4.1 – Donations to the West Parry Sound Health Centre Foundation and Lakeland Long Term Care from the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame Reserve Fund.
This concerns a $100,000 donation to these two facilities from a reserve fund that was formed in 2007. I think this is a very generous donation that was requested by Mr. Orr. As I wrote in an earlier post, I do not think that his earlier support for the current Republican administration should be held against him anymore than one’s religion or ethnicity should be held against them for the actions of some extremists.

Spelling Lesson:
The device that measures your water and electrical consumption is a meter, not a metre. A metre is a unit of measurement, which the Yankees spell meter.

Closed Session
d) labour relations or employee negotiations; (Collective Agreement Union Negotiations; and Employee impacts resulting from Provincial Declared Emergency Lock-Down);
k) a position, plan, procedure, criteria or instruction to be applied to any negotiations carried on or to be carried on by or on behalf of the municipality or local board, (Collective Agreement Union Negotiations).

Presentations
1. 2020 Order of Parry Sound
2. 2020 Year in Review
3. Coping with COVID

Correspondence
4.1 – Wayne Major
Concern regarding wait time & crowding at Town boat launches.

4.2 – Susan Heder
Appreciation for Rugged Trail.

4.3 – Lynne Atkinson
Request for Proclamation of Feb 6, 2020 as International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation.

9.2.2 – Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program – Covid Stream – Local Government.
Resolution
That Council receive the report Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program – COVID Stream – Local Government for information purposes.

9.3.1 – Declaration of Second Provincial Emergency.
Resolution
That Council receive the report Declaration of Second Provincial Emergency for information purposes.

9.4.1 – Rural Economic Development Grant.
Resolution
Be it resolved that the Town of Parry Sound supports the DBA’s request to submit a grant application under the Rural Economic Development (RED) program; and
That the Town of Parry Sound provide 50% match funding up to $25,450.

9.5.1 Proclamation of Zero Tolerance for FGM.
Resolution
Whereas International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is observed around the world and provides an opportunity to honor those women, girls, boys and men who are actively and courageously working towards an end to this harmful practice.
Whereas this day invites us to reflect on the fact that 4.1 million girls are still at risk of mutilation each year, including girls in Canada.
Whereas on this day, we acknowledge that female genital mutilation is an issue in more than 90 countries and on every continent except Antarctica, and that there are at least 200 million FGM survivors in the world, including more than 100,000 in Canada.
Whereas we acknowledge that FGM has no basis in any religious text and is recognized by the United Nations and other world bodies as child abuse and an abuse of a girl’s fundamental human rights.
Whereas we acknowledge that FGM has no benefits and causes only harm, including death, difficulties with urination, menstruation, sexual intimacy, post-traumatic stress disorder and increased maternal and child mortality.
Whereas on this International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, we acknowledge and celebrate all national and international efforts being made, especially at the grass roots level, to achieve United Nations Sustainable Millennium Development Goal #5, which calls for the elimination of FGM and other harmful traditional practices by 2030.
Whereas on this Day of Zero Tolerance, we call for increased, concerted global and Canadian action to end female genital mutilation, and ask all governments-international, national, and local- to fully uphold the human rights of women and girls so they can live a life free from the violence that is female genital mutilation.
NOW THEREFORE, Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound does hereby proclaim February 6, 2021, as International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation in the Town of Parry Sound.

By-laws
10.1.1 – Temporary Borrowing Authorization.
By-law 2021 – 7096
Being a by-law to authorize temporary borrowing to meet the current expenditures of the Town of Parry Sound until taxes are collected and other revenues are received.

10.1.2 – Water and Wastewater Rates.
By-law 2021 – 7097
Being a By-law to establish water and wastewater rates in the Town of Parry Sound, starting with the consumption month of March 2021.
Resolution
That the Town of Parry Sound’s Ontario Regulation 453/07 Water Financial Plan prepared by Watson & Associates Economists Ltd. dated January 15, 2021 be approved; and
That notice of availability of the Financial Plan be advertised; and
That the Financial Plan dated January 15, 2021 be submitted to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. (O.Reg. 453/07, section 3 (1) 6); and further
That the resolution of Council approving the Financial Plan be submitted to the MECP, satisfying the requirements under the Safe Drinking Water Act. (S.D.W.A. section 32 (5) 2.ii.).

Town of Parry Sound Proposed Water Rates

14 Thursday Jan 2021

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

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parry sound, Town Council, Water Management

In this post I offer my analysis and comments concerning the proposed water rates for the Town of Parry Sound as presented in the November 8, 2020 report from Watson & Associates. I have separately been concerned with certain figures used in the report regarding customer numbers and water usage estimates. I have sent my concerns to the Town. A copy of my letter can be read through this link.

Top Line Numbers
The report presents the water and wastewater expense and revenue estimates for residential and non-residential water users. I have clipped and pasted the most relevant portions below.

The report, page 6-2, states (italicized for emphasis):

For water services, monthly base charges are forecast to increase by 5.0% annually for the period 2022-2028 and then by 3.9% in 2029. The consumptive rate is forecast to increase by 0.04% over the forecast period.

For wastewater services, monthly base charges are forecast to increase by 3.2% annually for the period 2022-2028 and then by 2.5% in 2029. No change in the consumptive rate is forecast over the period to 2029.

The detailed calculations of the proposed water and wastewater rate calculations are contained in Appendices A and B to this report, respectively.

And on pages 6-4 and 6-5:

High volume non-residential users would either benefit (reduction in annual costs) or experience minimal increases in their annual water and wastewater bill. It is anticipated that the annual bill for a small residential customer would decrease slightly in 2021 (i.e. 1% decrease), while the bill for an average residential metered customer would increase by 9%. Greater bill impacts in 2021 would be seen for residential customers consuming greater than average annual water consumption (i.e. greater than 26,704 gallons). Bills for all customers would increase by approximately 2% each year for 2022-2029.

Comments

The rates as presented use the forecast fixed and variable costs related to providing water and wastewater services. These forecast costs are then allocated over the expected number of customers (base rates) and volume used. An underestimate of either customers or usage will raise the recommended rates as presented in the report.
I believe that the report is seriously underestimating the expected increase in water and wastewater usage. They are estimating an increase in customer number of 1.2% over the next ten years, all of them metered. Their estimate of billed water usage is expected to increase by less than 1% over the next decade, or 0.1% per year. This is despite the construction of some very obvious new multi-unit residences and the real possibility of an aquatic center, ‘da pool’.
This underestimates the reasonable revenue that can be expected and increases the proposed rates represented in the report.
The report suggests that billed water usage will essentially remain flat for ten years. That certainly is optimistic given the proposed rate structure. As proposed, the base (fixed) rate for metered residential customers will increase annually, but the consumptive rate is proposed to remain effectively unchanged over the next decade as presented in the report (below in italics).
For water services, monthly base charges are forecast to increase by 5.0% annually for the period 2022-2028 and then by 3.9% in 2029. The consumptive rate is forecast to increase by 0.04% over the forecast period.
For wastewater services, monthly base charges are forecast to increase by 3.2% annually for the period 2022-2028 and then by 2.5% in 2029. No change in the consumptive rate is forecast over the period to 2029.
If the base cost increases annually but usage prices remain fixed there is little reason to conserve water, at least not to save money. Typically, organizations who wish to dissuade consumption increase the variable, or unit cost of an item. A good example is cigarette pricing. At $2 a pack there is little disincentive to buy a package of cigarettes. Raise the price to $13 and smokers either stop smoking or ration their usage. In the case of those water users who are not metered and enjoy an ‘all you can eat’ deal there is absolutely no reason to ration. Heck, you could get into the water business on a casual basis for our neighbours in the surrounding communities who are not sure their well water is really that safe. (Those water tests are such a pain.)

The Bottom Line
It really doesn’t matter what we say or point out, this report presents the Town of Parry Sound water rates for the next decade wrapped in a polished consultant veneer. I can afford the proposed increase but I worry about some of the folks in town who live on a fixed income.

As a consultant, I am more than annoyed with some of the assumptions underlying the conclusions and the lack of transparency. This includes, omitting historical customers and water usage, and not defining the terms underlying the forecast of customers and water use. It’s hard to comment on forecasts when the basic information and assumptions are missing. I suspect that the consultants expect the report will be received, not really understood, and accepted as written. These are competent folks and it would be hard to push back against their recommendations without some experience in the area. How often do you push back against your physician’s recommendations?

The net/net is that Council will accept the water rates as proposed in the report. Council unfortunately will not be able to claim that the rate structure encourages water conservation. The only way to accomplish conservation would be to require all residences to install water meters and make water incrementally more expensive with use above some sort of baseline. That is, as they say, a ‘third rail’ issue. They won’t touch it.

If you have particular comments, I encourage you to contact a member of Council. The formal commenting period has closed and the item is on this Tuesday’s agenda.

The Town of Parry Sound Water Report – WTF?

29 Tuesday Dec 2020

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

≈ 2 Comments

Tags

economic development, Opinion, parry sound, TOPS Financial Analysis, Water Management

I opened the Town’s recently issued water report prepared by Watson & Associates Economists Ltd. to review it and take notes. It all started reasonably and then I hit page 2.1. (The report can be downloaded from the Town’s website through this link.) That’s where the WTF reaction arose.

The report states that there are currently 2,346 customers for water and 2,273 for wastewater services. Okay, that seems reasonable, the consultants have the Town’s account numbers. The report goes on to assume there will be a total of 30 new customers (three new accounts per year) for water and wastewater services over the period 2020 to 2030. I take this to mean from the beginning of 2020 to the end of 2029, a ten-year period. This is an increase of 1.3% over ten years. Water consumption is expected to increase by 0.7%.

How do you assume only 30 total new water customers when house conversions to multiple units are ongoing, the Lighthouse development will be coming on line, as will Thunder Creek? These two developments will create dozens of new accounts. There is also the Acorn Ridge development on Louisa Street with potentially hundreds of new accounts that is on the back burner for now but is more than likely to arrive in the next decade given the demand for housing in the Town and the willingness of people to pay whatever it costs to get out of the Big Smoke and retain the luxury of high speed internet without worrying about wells and septic systems.

What about the new Recreation Centre? Will they be filling the pool with water pumped directly out of the Big Sound?

The report states that it is presenting a ‘conservative’ forecast. There is ‘conservative’ and there is ‘sandbagging’. Town staff are pretty experienced at sandbagging. I see it regularly in the annual budgets and largely ignore it as it is not too egregious and there is no ulterior motive. If you put a budget item in at a higher cost than you actually expect to pay you are a hero for the savings. At the same time these ‘extra’ funds are now available to pay for other items that Council was not willing to consider because of the expense, or the savings can cover other items where there was an error made by underestimating a cost. Sandbagging is not hard to identify if you know what you are looking for.

It seems that in the case of the Water Report the sandbagging is being done to rationalize higher water rates. The largest part of water and wastewater costs are not related to the cost of purifying and pumping water or processing wastewater before discharge, it is related to the cost of building and maintaining the supporting infrastructure. This includes things like upgrading and servicing pumping stations, replacing pipe, and installing new pipe. With no growth in customers and water use there is no need for additional water related infrastructure; you take a maintain and upgrade only when necessary approach.

I have put off reading the cost and revenue estimates provided in the report pending an answer from the Town about the growth rate presented in the report. Once I have an explanation, I will take another look at the report and provide you with an overview of the report, the conclusions, and the implications. That won’t be until the ‘holiday week’ is over and Staff is available.

Do we need an economic development officer to get a total of 1% growth over ten years? Do we need a fulltime Chief Building Officer if there is no significant construction expected? What about a Planner?

Come on folks, was Staff unable to identify the discrepancy or did they actually request it? The Town would have seen and commented on the report before it was issued. Consultants know what they are doing. Forecasting a smaller than realistic growth in water accounts has the net effect of raising the rates the Town charges each of us for water and wastewater. It’s only a few percent points difference but it is meaningful. Screwing around with your assumptions to get the number you want is deceitful and ruins your credibility. Keep your assumptions realistic and be direct with the cost that will be required. Don’t sandbag it. Or if you do want to really lowball the numbers then state that in the assumptions. Don’t call it ‘conservative’.

Oh, in case you were wondering, WTF means What the Forecast.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – December 15, 2020

23 Wednesday Dec 2020

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

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By-Law, Capital Investment, Council Minutes, DBA, economic development, Infrastructure, parry sound, Pool, Rezoning, Seguin, Taxes, Town Council, Water Management

There are no surprises but there are issues you need to understand and possibly follow up on:
9.4.1 – Water & Wastewater Rate Study
9.5.1 – West Parry Sound Recreation & Culture Centre

Abridged Minutes

Closed Session
(c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board (developer request to purchase land from the Town; MTO offer to sell land to the Town);
e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board, (claim against Town funds);
k) a position, plan, procedure, criteria or instruction to be applied to any negotiations carried on or to be carried on by or on behalf of the municipality or local board, (claim against Town funds);

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiry regarding a maintenance hole on Joseph St and the status of railing installation on Cascade St., Director of Public Works Mike Kearns responded that if temperatures moderate, a better patch work can be done for the rest of winter around the Joseph St. maintenance hole. With respect to the railing on Cascade Street, Mr. Kearns reported that although the railing was part of the contract installation, there was a decision made at some point not to re-install. Currently he is attempting to ensure design that will not impede snow removal and still allow for a 1.5 meter regulation width sidewalk.

3.2.2 – In response to Councillor Burden’s concerns on behalf of the Downtown Business Association (DBA) regarding garbage on James Street between Seguin and Mary, and their request for garbage containers mid-block, Mr. Kearns reported that the MOU between Town and DBA identifies that garbage receptacles are removed during winter conditions and a few remain. One of the challenges in wintertime is to place receptacles where they won’t impede snow removal.

2.3 – Councillor Backman commented that she would like the existing garbage receptacles in the downtownarea replaced by bins supporting recycling. In addition, Councillor Backman requested an update on the CIINO initiative to which CAO Clayton Harris responded per the following: The Regional Economic Development Collaborative is composed of all seven West Parry Sound area municipalities; the new EDO James Cox started December 7th with an office located in the Township of The Archipelago building; Chair Michelle Hendry and Mr. Harris met with him yesterday, and will set a meeting with Mr. Cox and the Town’s EDO Vlad Shehovtsov for Thursday.

3.2.4 – In response to Councillor Borneman’s inquiry as to potential for a rink at Kinsmen Park this winter, Mr. Kearns reported that the Health Unit has released guidelines on operating outdoor rinks, and that pending appropriate weather conditions, plans are in place to make an outdoor rink at Kinsmen Park.

3.2.5 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiry regarding winter solstice, Mr. Kearns reported that to his knowledge no celebratory plans were in place to recognize winter solstice this year.

Correspondence
4.1 – Rick Kerr
Request for amendment to Cemetery Regulations – for Council’s consideration.

4.2 – Ann MacDiarmid, Mayor, Seguin Township
Withdrawal from Boundary Adjustment Discussions.
Filed

4.3 – Aleesha Clark, Committee Chair, Absolutely Georgian Bay
Introduction of Absolutely Georgian Bay Tourism Cooperative Inc.
Filed

Deputations
5.1 – Tom Parks, OHE Consultants.
Request for exemption from Noise Regulations for Jail Demolition.
Mr. Park gave an explanation of the reason for the requested exemption from the noise regulations by-law and acknowledged that the Ontario Regulations 131/20 which prohibit municipalities from regulating construction noise between 6 AM and 10 PM may mean that his request is not necessary as contractors will be able to work from 6 AM to 9 AM prior to court, from 6 PM to 10 PM after court and on weekends and statutory holidays. In addition, Mr. Park responded to inquiries about how the work will be undertaken, including filling with uncompressible fill; and lighting during nighttime operations.

9.1.1 – Winter Control Level of Service Policy.
Resolution
That Council endorse and adopt the attached Winter Control Level of Service Policy for roads and sidewalks.
Carried

9.2.1 – Extension of Temporary Patio Permissions for Restaurants During COVID-19.
Resolution
Whereas on June 8, 2020 the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) permitted new patios or temporary additions to patios to provide more opportunities to local businesses while protecting health and safety, subject to municipal requirements, and provided an extension to these timelines on December 9, 2021; and
Whereas the Council for the Town of Parry Sound passed Resolution 2020-067 to permit temporary restaurant and bar patios and opted not to enforce the Zoning By-law or Site Plan Agreements as it related to parking infractions as a result of these patios until January 1, 2021; and
Whereas Covid-19 will be an issue affecting restaurants for the foreseeable future and the Town wishes to extend the timelines of this Resolution to be in tandem with the AGCO’s extension.
Now Therefore be it Resolved that the Council for the Town of Parry Sound supports an extension until January 1, 2022 to the terms noted in Resolution 2020-067.
Carried

9.2.2 – Consent Application B/45A&B/2020 – Macazer Holding.
Resolution
That Council of the Town of Parry Sound hereby supports Parry Sound Area Planning Board Application Number B45A&B/2020 – Macazer Holding.
Carried

9.3.1 – The 2019-2020 Annual Report.
Resolution
That Council receive the 2019-2020 Annual Report as attached, and direct staff to make copies of it available to the public and circulated to MP Scott Aitchison, MPP Norm Miller, the Downtown Business Association, the Chamber of Commerce and other agencies and organizations as appropriate.
Carried

9.4.1 – Water & Wastewater Rate Study
Sean-Michael Stephen of Watson & Associates Economists addressed Council from a prepared presentation regarding a proposed ten-year sewer and water rate structure to address Council’s previous direction to move to a structure that includes a base charge and consumptive rate that is uniform across all customers. The proposed recommendation includes a differentiated rate based on meter size with no distinction between residential and non-residential customers, and consumptive component based on actual usage for metered customer with no minimum consumption charge. Built into the rate structure are increased annual charges for operating expenditures plus inflation estimated at 2% per year, and capital related expenditure based on the capital funding plan.
Resolution
WHEREAS Council approved a change from the current water and wastewater rate structure to a rate structure with a monthly fixed charge, based on meter size, and a consumptive rate (per gallon/per cubic metre) that is uniform for all customers; and
WHEREAS pricing structure changes were deferred to investigate additional options;
NOW THEREFORE Council hereby approves the posting of the Town of Parry Sound Water and Wastewater Rate Study for public circulation and comment; and
THAT the Water Financial Plan be prepared in the format required under O.Reg. 453/07 and submitted to the Province to maintain the Town’s Municipal Drinking Water Licence; and further
THAT the recommended rates be brought forward for consideration.
Carried

Other Business
9.5.1 – West Parry Sound Recreation & Culture Centre.
Spokesperson: Donald Sanderson, Chair, Wellness Centre & Pool Committee
Wellness Centre & Pool Committee Chair Donald Sanderson introduced himself and consultants present, and then proceeded to give a presentation from a series of slides on the proposed West Parry Sound Area Recreation Centre.
In addition, questions posed were responded to by Mr. Sanderson or other members of the team per the following:
– it is unknown whether funding is jeopardized if a municipality pulls out; the project and funding formula would need to be reworked for approval by remaining municipalities.
– although the objective of the proposal was to develop program for the facility using 5 acres, there is an additional 10 acres available as well as 9 acres owned by the Town abutting the property that could be used for additional programming.
– Soil samples have been taken in the parking lot and play field area, and on the existing developed area, and all is buildable.
– the building can be re-oriented or expanding upon once an architect has been selected to proceed with finalizing siting and design.
– The Municipal Joint Service Agreement requires 100% agreement of members to release a municipality from the Agreement, with the rationale that any municipality on its own deciding to undertake a recreation project of this magnitude would be committed for decades.
– 2% of annual operating budget is put into a reserve fund to address future capital expenditures – an industry standard.
– Terms of Reference for the Joint Municipal Service Board are essentially contained within the Agreement – a broad constitutional document to set up the Board.
– with respect to the receipt by other municipalities of the presentation, the Townships of McDougall and The Archipelago have both passed resolutions endorsing the recommendations; the Municipality of Whitestone received the presentation and will decide at a future meeting, which was their planned approach to the issue.
– the operating agent will be determined by the Joint Municipal Service Board; the hope is that an arrangement can be made with the YMCA.
– The YMCA owns the land and is agreeable to leasing it for a nominal amount per year for 100 years. If as a condition of funding the land must be owned by the grant recipient, the YMCA is agreeable to sell the land for a nominal amount.
– consider changing the word “burden” to something more positive in the Joint Municipal Service Board Agreement vis a bis “municipalities shall share the burden of the annual contribution.”
Mayor McGarvey thanked Chair Sanderson and other presenters.
Resolution 2020 – 147
Be it Resolved that subject to all area municipalities agreeing to participate as outlined in the attached report presented by the Wellness Centre & Pool Committee at the December 15, 2020 Meeting of Council, and subject to ICIP funding approval, The Council for the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound approves the following recommendations:
1. That the YMCA property, as recommended by CS&P Architects be approved as the site;
2. That CS&P Architects Option A be approved for the purposes of designing and constructing the facility;
3. That the cost sharing formula be approved for the allocation of operating and capital costs;
4. That a Joint Municipal Service Board be used by the municipalities, for the purpose of acting as an agent on behalf of the Municipalities, in the constructing, maintaining, fundraising and operating of the West Parry Sound Area Recreation and Culture Centre; 5. That the Joint Municipal Service Board Agreement be approved, and the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute the agreement, substantially in the form attached;
6. That pending approval of the ICIP grant application the Steering Committee be directed to take the necessary steps to create the Joint Municipal Service Board;
7. That the Steering Committee be directed to enter into negotiations with the YMCA for the purposes of operating the facility; and
8. That the Steering Committee be directed to enter into negotiations with the YMCA to secure the approved site.
7-yes; 0-no – Carried Unanimously

9.5.2 – Request for Exemption from Noise Regulations By-law.
Resolution
Whereas Council has received a request per attached Schedule A for exemption from the Noise Regulations By-law 2009-5301; and
Whereas no concerns have been raised by Town staff with respect to the request for exemption, and
Whereas Ontario Regulation 131/20 filed April 7, 2020 and in effect for 18 months from date of filing, denies a municipality the power to prohibit and regulate noise with respect to construction activity in a municipality between the hours of 6 AM and 10 PM
Now Therefore the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound does hereby grant the applicant all requested exemptions from the Noise Regulations By-law 2009- 5301 per application attached as Schedule A.
Carried

By-laws
10.1.1 – Curbside Collection Contract Extension.
By-law 2020 – 7094
Being a bylaw to authorize the extension of an agreement with Waste Connections of Canada Inc. for curbside waste and recycling collection for two years, ending December 31, 2022.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.4.1 – 2021 Interim Tax Levy.
By-law 2020 – 7093
Being a By-Law to provide for an interim tax levy, for the payment of taxes, and for penalty and interest at 1 1/4 percent per month for the 2021 taxation year.
Passed, Signed & Sealed
Direction Approved for Staff Follow-up
That staff be directed to report back on the implications of waiving the 1-1/4% penalty under various options, i.e. over different number of months, etc.
Carried for staff follow-up.

Council Agenda Preview – December 15, 2020

12 Saturday Dec 2020

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

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Agenda, By-Law, parry sound, Pool, Rezoning, Seguin, Taxes, Town Council, Water Management

It’s a packed agenda in terms of content. The agenda with attachments is 58 MB to download if you are interested in any of the particular items and the supporting documentation.
Well, there has been a cessation of boundary discussions between the Town of Parry Sound and Sequin Township at the direction of the Seguin Council (4.2). That still leaves Israel-Palestine, China-India, India-Pakistan, Turkey-Syria, and many other border disputes/discussions unresolved.
Winter Control Level of Service Policy (9.1.1) has been provided. This policy summarizes the priorities of the various roads in Town with respect to snow management. It’s a little bit misleading in that a Class 6 street might well be cleared before a Class 3 road (the lower the class the higher the priority – get it). It all depends on the equipment required. The higher class, lower priority, streets are often short cul de sacs that require a relatively small truck and blade and are quickly cleared while the lower class streets, think Bowes Street, require the largest machines and multiple passes.
The The 2019-2020 Annual Report (9.3.1) is out and probably will soon be found in your mailbox. Download the full agenda for an early read. Lots of images and self-congratulatory text. (Note to the report designer – the images are unattractively over saturated. Less is More.)
The Water & Wastewater Rate Study (4.1.1) has been issued in draft form for public review and comment. It looks like you have some more holiday reading.
The West Parry Sound Recreation & Culture Centre (9.5.1) is on the agenda with a request for approval to enter into further negotiations. This approval has the condition that no agreement is finalized before certain conditions are met. These conditions seem to include the agreement of the other area municipalities and upper tier government funding approval.

Those are my key takeaways from the agenda. I wish everyone a safe holiday season and may you be on Santa’s nice list for a COVID-19 vaccination. (With the exception of medical and related personnel I suspect we are lower on the list, which is actually a good thing for a number of reasons.)

Closed Session
c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board (developer request to purchase land from the Town; MTO offer to sell land to the Town)
e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board, (claim against Town funds)
k) a position, plan, procedure, criteria or instruction to be applied to any negotiations carried on or to be carried on by or on behalf of the municipality or local board, (claim against Town funds)

Correspondence
4.1 – Rick Kerr.
Request for amendment to Cemetery Regulations.

4.2 – Ann MacDiarmid, Mayor, Seguin Township.
Withdrawal from Boundary Adjustment Discussions.

4.3 – Aleesha Clark, Committee Chair, Absolutely Georgian Bay.
Introduction of Absolutely Georgian Bay Tourism Cooperative Inc.

Deputations
5.1 – Tom Parks, OHE Consultants.
Request for exemption from Noise Regulations for Jail Demolition [For Council’s determination by resolution].

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – Winter Control Level of Service Policy.
Resolution
That Council endorse and adopt the attached Winter Control Level of Service Policy for roads and sidewalks.

9.2.2 – Consent Application B/45A&B/2020 – Macazer Holding.
Resolution
That Council of the Town of Parry Sound hereby supports Parry Sound Area Planning Board Application Number B45A&B/2020 – Macazer Holding.

9.3.1 – The 2019-2020 Annual Report.
Resolution
That Council receive the 2019-2020 Annual Report as attached, and direct staff to make copies of it available to the public and circulated to MP Scott Aitchison, MPP Norm Miller, the Downtown Business Association, the Chamber of Commerce and other agencies and organizations as appropriate.

9.4.1 – Water & Wastewater Rate Study.
Resolution
WHEREAS Council approved a change from the current water and wastewater rate structure to a rate structure with a monthly fixed charge, based on meter size, and a consumptive rate (per gallon/per cubic metre) that is uniform for all customers; and
WHEREAS pricing structure changes were deferred to investigate additional options;
NOW THEREFORE Council hereby approves the posting of the Town of Parry Sound Water and Wastewater Rate Study for public circulation and comment; and
THAT the Water Financial Plan be prepared in the format required under O.Reg. 453/07 and submitted to the Province to maintain the Town’s Municipal Drinking Water Licence; and further
THAT the recommended rates be brought forward for consideration.

9.5.1 – West Parry Sound Recreation & Culture Centre.
Resolution
Be it Resolved that subject to all area municipalities agreeing to participate as outlined in the attached report presented by the Wellness Centre & Pool Committee at the December 15, 2020 Meeting of Council, and subject to ICIP funding approval, The Council for the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound approves the following recommendations:
1. That the YMCA property, as recommended by CS&P Architects be approved as the site;
2. That CS&P Architects Option A be approved for the purposes of designing and constructing the facility;
3. That the cost sharing formula be approved for the allocation of operating and capital costs;
4. That a Joint Municipal Service Board be used by the municipalities, for the purpose of acting as an agent on behalf of the Municipalities, in the constructing, maintaining, fundraising and operating of the West Parry Sound Area Recreation and Culture Centre;
5. That the Joint Municipal Service Board Agreement be approved, and the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute the agreement, substantially in the form attached;
6. That pending approval of the ICIP grant application the Steering Committee be directed to take the necessary steps to create the Joint Municipal Service Board;
7. That the Steering Committee be directed to enter into negotiations with the YMCA for the purposes of operating the facility; and
8. That the Steering Committee be directed to enter into negotiations with the YMCA to secure the approved site.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – December 1, 2020

05 Saturday Dec 2020

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

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By-Law, Council Minutes, EMS, Infrastructure, Parking, parry sound, Planning, safety, TOPS Financial Analysis, Town Council, Town Dock/Big Sound Marina

There are a large number of items contained in this week’s Town of Parry Sound council meeting minutes. None are a surprise. It’s worth taking a quick scan of the items to keep yourself up-to-date and avoid any future surprises. I try and limit my comments to the agenda preview except where a new item of interest is introduced. Once Council makes a decision, Resolution or By-law, it will be a challenge to get it amended or reversed. That’s why attention should be paid to the agenda, rather than the minutes. It’s much easier to head off bad ideas than correct them later.

Abridged Minutes

Closed Meeting
i) a trade secret or scientific, technical, commercial, financial or labour relations information, supplied in confidence to the municipality or local board, which, if disclosed, could reasonably be expected to prejudice significantly the competitive position or interfere significantly with the contractual or other negotiations of a person, group of persons, or organization, (EMS Human Resources issue)
k) a position, plan, procedure, criteria or instruction to be applied to any negotiations carried on or to be carried on by or on behalf of the municipality or local board, (EMS Contract)

Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof
1.4.1 – Cllr. Horne declared Pecuniary Interest on item 9.2.2 – 2021 Land Ambulance Budget as his spouse who is CFO of the West Parry Sound Health Centre is directly involved in the 2021 Land Ambulance 2021 Budget process. During the item, Councillor Horne left the room, did not participate in discussion nor vote on the resolution.

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – In response to Mayor McGarvey’s inquiry regarding the Christmas and Toy Food Drive, Fire Chief Dave Thompson reported that the Fire Department’s food drive usually conducted door to door, will instead this year be done by soliciting donations at numerous locations in Town this Saturday. The EMS Toy Drive is also being modified this year; donors are encouraged to send cheques to the EMS Base at 99 Bowes Street, or submit e-transfer to e-mail address psemstoydrive@gmail.com
Financial donations are spent locally to purchase toys.

3.2.2 – In response to Councillor McCann’s inquiry regarding a ratepayer’s concern about a notice received regarding parking on the lawn, Mr. Thompson reported that one of the major complaints the By-law Enforcement Department receives deals with clean yards, particularly front yards, and vehicle parking thereon. The zoning by-law governs parking including that of licensed and unlicensed vehicles, recreational vehicles, etc. The By-law Enforcement Department’s approach is to contact people who are mis- parking to educate them on options and opportunities to come into compliance with the By-law. The By-law Enforcement Department enforces both the Property Standards and Clean Yards By-laws as set by Council from both a pro-active and reactive approach. Council can change the by-laws to address different issues if it wishes.

3.2.3 – In response to Councillor Backman’s inquiry on whether there has been an increase in parking violations on properties as a result of the zoning by-law amendment recently passed permitting additional units, Mr. Thompson reported that they have not seen a direct relationship. Generally parking issues are related to funny shaped lots, small driveways, small side yards, etc.

3.2.4 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiry regarding the response to snowfall today and the seasonal lights up on Town property, Director of Public Works Mike Kearns confirmed that plowing operations went well in today’s first major snow fall and that it was indeed Town staff who put up lights on the evergreen trees at the Town office and at Market Square Park.

Correspondence
4.1 – Nick Ryeland, Park to Park Trail.
2020 Funding Request
Referred to Director of Financial Services

4.2 – Beth Morton, Clerk-Administrator, Township of Perry.
Opposition to Closure of Drive Test Centre in Sundridge.
Filed

4.3 – Minister Cho, Ministry of Seniors & Accessibility.
Response to request for extension of Website compliance deadline.
Filed

4.4 – Hanif Datoo.
Request for winter maintenance Geewadin Road extension.
Referred to Director of Public Works for research and response

4.5 – Parry Sound Affordable Housing Development Corporation.
Support request for PSAHDC’s outreach to increase affordable housing.
Referred to item 9.3.1

Deputations
5.1 – David Bywater, Benjamin John, Georgian Bay Biosphere.
ICECAP (Integrated Community Energy and Climate Action Plans) Progress Report.
From a prepared power point presentation, Mr. Bywater and Mr. John addressed Council with respect to progress that the ICECAP Regional partnership made in 2020 and plans for 2021, noting the following:
– The partnership is a regional approach with identified current members, potential members and community partners.
– Of the five milestones identified by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) Partners for Climate Protection program, the first milestone to establish a baseline greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions inventory and forecast has been completed for both the community and municipal operations.
– highlights of 2020 included launching the “carbon calculator”, conducting webinars, studies, writing articles, and within the community assessment – including recreational vehicle emissions – the first communities in Canada to be including this category which is getting attention from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) and federal partners.
– Corporate (i.e. the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound) baseline GHG emissions data was collected for transportation, buildings, streetlights, solid waste and water & wastewater with three major areas of GHG emissions being buildings, fleet, and water/wastewater infrastructure.
– combined numbers produced a baseline at year 2016 upon which to compare in future; if operations continue “business as usual”, the GHG emissions are anticipated to rise 12% by 2030; financial costs associated can also be expected to rise.
– the next milestone in the ICECAP program includes setting a target reduction rate.
– although a more complex task, similar data analysis was done for the broader community which shows community transportation produces the most GHG emissions, specifically from vehicles on the road, followed by commercial, institutional and residential sectors with values typical of an urban-rural community like Parry Sound.
– Combined numbers for the community also produced a baseline at year 2016, with a business as usual forecast of 11.8% increase in year 2030.
– The proposed 2021 workplan includes three program areas: ICECAP Regional Activities; Milestones 2 & 3 of the Municipalities Partners for Climate Protection Program; and First Nations Climate Action. Milestones 2 and 3 represent a significant body of work in setting corporate and community reduction targets and establishing a climate change action plan.
– In order to undertake the 2021 workplan, $14,500 is requested per municipal member which for Parry Sound represents 13.5% of the 2021 budget, with other funding coming from other ICECAP members, Georgian Bay Biosphere and other funding sources.

5.2 – Nadine Hammond, Curator/Manager, Rob Wood, Board Chair Museum on Tower Hill.
2021 Funding Request and 2020 Annual Report .
Ms. Hammond addressed Council with respect to a review of last year’s operations, including the following:
– March sprinkler system froze and burst causing water damage in the hallway; the company who repaired it also donated materials and services to repair exterior siding, seal off the attic from rodents and replace insulation.
– COVID altered how the public was able to access the museum spaces which reduced revenues from admissions and gift shop sales.
– Over 15 groups to date have experienced a new exhibit – the Adam Brown adventure, sponsored by Team Marshall and Georgian Bay Software – which has received positive feedback.
– Genealogy group continues to meet monthly.
– “Giving Tuesday” today raised $6,000 well in excess of the $1,000 goal with Sobey’s matching donations up to $500.00.
– Next year plans including fixing ageing building, opening new train exhibit, Trappers Cabin, launching a docent program to provide tours of the exhibition and launching new digital content.
Mr. Wood addressed Council commending Ms. Hammond’s work, committing the Board to supporting her work in 2021, and inviting members of Council to experience the Adam Brown Adventure at the Museum.
In response to Council questions about the financial state of the Museum, Ms. Hammond reported that the museum was not able in 2020 to generate the funds it normally does, because of COVID restrictions; museums are typically underfunded federally and provincially; available funding is often specific to programming and the challenge the Museum is facing is to fund basic building maintenance shortfall.
Mayor McGarvey noted that the Museum’s funding request would be part of the Town’s budget process.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – Waste Diversion and Transition Legislation Comments.
Resolution
That Council receive the Report attached as Schedule A regarding waste diversion and transition legislation and direct staff to provide comments consistent with the Report, on the proposed legislation as listed in the Environmental Registry as – ERO number 019- 2579 prior to the December 3, 2020 deadline.
Carried

9.2.1 – Building Permit Software.
Resolution
That Council accepts the proposal from Evolta Software Inc. for e-permitting (building permit) software (“Cloudpermit”) and authorizes staff to enter into an e-permit Service Agreement with Evolta Software Inc.
Carried

9.2.2 – 2021 Land Ambulance Budget.
Resolution
That upon the recommendation of the EMS Advisory Committee the 2021 Land Ambulance Operating Budget be approved with a 4.85% levy increase over the 2020 approved budget in a total amount of $9,986,873; and
That a Land Ambulance Capital Budget be approved in the amount of $460,000 to be funded from the EMS Capital Reserve Fund.
Carried

9.2.3 – Sign Variance – 1 Pine Drive – 2020.
Resolution
That Council authorizes and directs the Chief Building Official to issue a permit for 4 signs on the site of 1 Pine Drive pursuant to the variances and permissions attached as Schedule A.
Carried

9.3.1 – Support for Parry Sound Affordable Housing Development Corporation.
Resolution.
Whereas the Parry Sound Affordable Housing Development Corporation has submitted a letter and would appreciate support from the Town of Parry Sound in their efforts to increase the number of affordable housing units serving West Parry Sound; and
Whereas there is an ongoing demand for affordable housing units in Parry Sound and the surrounding area; and
Whereas the Parry Sound Affordable Housing Development Corporation works in partnership with many organizations to increase the number of affordable housing units to serve Parry Sound, and
Whereas the Parry Sound Affordable Housing Development Corporation commits that neither it nor its successor organization(s) will seek an exemption from property taxes under the Assessment Act,
Now Therefore the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound does hereby support the Parry Sound Affordable Housing Development Corporation’s efforts in search of opportunities to increase the number of affordable housing units to serve Parry Sound.
Carried

9.3.2 – Xplornet’s proposal to the Province under the Improving Connectivity for Ontario (ICON) program.
Resolution
Whereas Xplornet has requested support from the Town of Parry Sound for their submission to the Province under the Improving Connectivity for Ontario (ICON) program, and
Whereas the past months have demonstrated the importance of connectivity, especially for the more rural areas of Ontario, and
Whereas the post-pandemic recovery offers the opportunity to provide the necessary tools for rural Ontario’s success in the digital economy, including education through virtual learning, eHealth, economic development and by supporting residents working from home, and
Whereas Xplornet’s project will build 2,650 km of new fibre across the province, providing direct fibre connections in the rural areas of Parry Sound, including the connection of 1 new macro tower site and 1 new wireless microsite to fibre in Town,
Now Therefore the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound does hereby support Xplornet’s proposal to the Province under the Improving Connectivity for Ontario (ICON) program.
Carried

9.4.1 – Financial Variance Report for Third Quarter of 2020.
Resolution
That Council hereby receives and accepts the variance report for the Third Quarter of 2020 (September 30, 2020); and
That Council hereby approves the expenses for Council members for the period from January 1, 2020 to September 30, 2020.
Carried

9.4.2 – RFP – General Insurance and Risk Management Services.
Resolution
That Council accept and award the proposal for the Corporation’s general insurance and risk management services to BFL Canada, including Wharfingers/Terminal Operators insurance, at the premium cost of $451,169 plus sales tax for the one-year period ending December 15, 2021; and
That staff be authorized to negotiate and award other coverages up to a value of $16,295 plus sales tax.
Carried

By-laws
10.1.1 – Community Sharps Bin – Agreement North Bay-Parry Sound District Health Unit.
By-law 2020 – 7090
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of an agreement with the North Bay-Parry Sound District Health Unit for a Community Sharps Bin Program.
Passed, Signed and Sealed

10.2.1 – Appoint a Chief Building Official and Amend other building official appointments.
By-law 2020 – 7085
Being a By-law to Appoint Mark Vandermeer as Chief Building Official and amend or revoke other related Building Official Appointment By-laws.
Passed, Signed and Sealed
Mayor McGarvey remarked upon just deputized John Este’s coming retirement and welcomed Mark Vandermeer to the role of CBO and employment with the Town.

10.2.2 – EMS Lease of a portion of the Humphrey Fire Hall.
By-law 2020 – 7086
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of an agreement with the Township of Seguin for the lease of a portion of the Humphrey Fire Hall for an EMS Base.
Passed, Signed and Sealed

10.2.3 – Big Sound Marina Breakwater and Dock C contract execution.
By-law 2020 – 7087
Being a bylaw to authorize the execution of a contract with Kropf Industrial Inc for the replacement of the Breakwater and Dock C at the Big Sound Marina.
Passed, Signed and Sealed

10.3.1 – Return of Financial Donation to Phil Morse for Outdoor Rink Project.
By-law 2020 – 7091
Being a By-law to Authorize the Return of a Donation to Phil Morse.
Passed, Signed and Sealed

10.4.1 – Commencement of Fees and Charges for Servicing Dennis & Macklaim Drive.
By-law 2020 – 7088
Being a By-law to impose fees/charges for the recovery of the cost of capital works within portions of Plan M405 (Servicing Dennis and Macklaim Drive).
Passed, Signed and Sealed

10.4.2 – Intermunicipal tax roll agreements with Whitestone, Magnetawan, Strong, and Armour.
By-Law 2020 – 7089
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of four intermunicipal tax roll agreements with: the Corporation of the Municipality of Whitestone; the Corporation of the Township of Magnetawan; the Corporation of the Township of Strong; and the Municipal Corporation of the Township of Armour, for the purposes of adding POA defaulted fines to the tax roll.
Passed, Signed and Sealed

Parry Sounds

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