Tag Archives: Bridge Art

Council Meeting Notes – July 2, 2014

04 Friday Jul 2014

Posted by in Parry Sound, Town Council

≈ 2 Comments

Tags

, , , , , , ,

A light meeting in terms of content, it lasted until about 8:45 with most of the discussion surrounding item 9.5.1.

Council Reports – a final Annual General Meeting for Parry Sound Power will be held July 16th at 5:00 PM. I didn’t catch the location.

4.5 – Deputation. Parry Sound Tourism. There was a presentation of the new for-profit organization, Parry Sound Tourism, and it’s objectives with respect to promoting Parry Sound. It seems to be a professional operation and I suspect it will have as much or more impact on promoting the surrounding communities and businesses as it will the Town of Parry Sound. We are the ‘gateway’ but we really don’t have the attractions. There was an ask of $10,000 to support a sponsored video on Parry Sound, more reasonably the West Parry Sound area, that would attract more than 700,000 online views in the first week. Interesting, but I’m skeptical. I remember being pitched while in high tech the sponsorship of a video on our company’s technology that would be hosted by Leonard Nimoy (Mr. Spock himself). Interesting but in the end we declined because we had never heard of the program. If you don’t recognize it, does it really have an impact? I think it’s the same here. Perhaps Council might consider tossing in a couple thousand dollars if the neighbouring municipalities do the same. We really are selling an area not a town. It’s also ‘not in the budget’.

4.3 – Letter. Request to keep the Smelter Wharf clear of salt for the months of July and August. FORWARDED to STAFF & COUNCIL. It was noted that Sifto is in compliance with the existing agreement. Nothing can reasonably be done to limit the salt pile, also known as the great shifting pyramid of Parry Sound.

9.1.1 – Resolution. Proposal from Powassan Eagles to use the Bobby Orr Community Centre for their 2014-15 adult league team. CARRIED.

9.3.1 – Direction. Committee to draft rules of conduct for Town Boards and Committees. CARRIED. Councillors Paul Borneman and Brad Horne were appointed to the committee.

9.4.2 – Resolution. Acceptance of Parry Sound’s audited consolidated financial statements for 2013. CARRIED. Some discussion ensued and it was noted that the financial statements are quite different in format than the budget statements.

9.5.1 – Direction. Drainage issue at Isabella/Marion Street. POSTPONED. This issue tied up Council in terms of the proper action to follow and the precedent it might establish. This is potentially an expensive issue that Council wants to understand more clearly. Staff was tasked with providing to Council a report on what other communities are doing with respect to drainage issues that arise from new infill construction. The question really is whether it is the responsibility of the Town or the property owner to remediate any issues caused by new construction or lot grading changes. This issue will be taken up again at the next meeting of Council on the 15th.

9.5.2 – Resolution. Noise by-law exemption for road construction related ot the new school. CARRIED. Council and Staff were very critical of the company doing the construction work. They have consistently ignored their own timelines and missed deadlines. Council approved sending a letter of complaint to the Near North School Board.

9.5.3 – Resolution. A $269,000 contract to build a new Maintenance Facility and Cold Mix Shed. CARRIED. Council expressed concern that the transfer of funds from the James Street pedestrian crossing budget to cover the higher cost of the project would negatively impact the crossing, but were assured there would not be an issue.

10.5.1 – By-Law. Agreement with Fowler Construction for the Forest Street reconstruction. CARRIED.

That’s pretty much all that went down at the meeting. Cogeco wasn’t there to record the meeting so you’ll need to refer to the meeting minutes and Moose-FM and North Star reporting for additional details.

Digging In (Parry Sound in Black & White)

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

Council Meeting Summary – March 19, 2013

23 Saturday Mar 2013

Posted by in Parry Sound, Town Council

≈ Comments Off on Council Meeting Summary – March 19, 2013

Tags

, , , , , , ,

The meeting on Tuesday went longer than I initially expected, with a couple of twists. But in the end there were few surprises, except with respect to Parry Sound Hydro Corporation (see below). Here are my key takeaways from the meeting.

The town’s official plan was briefly reviewed prior to the council meeting. Only one comment was received, a statement in support of the plan from the Active Transportation Committee. The plan will return to to council for approval, and then a trip to Toronto for provincial review.

Meeting Highlights

Councillors and Mayor Reports, Questions of Staff

The new, increasingly famous, 7 Ton snow plow truck has been received and is in operation. It has been getting a workout this week.

The town has received informal federal approval for the Cascade Street railway crossing arms. Installation is tentatively scheduled for this fall.

Parry Sound Hydro Corporation announced that it is entering into discussions with Lakeland Holding Ltd to collaborate on power generation and operations. Lakeland is a power generation company operating local facilities including Bracebridge, Huntsville and Sundridge. The discussion points include collaborating on an expansion of the Cascade Street generating facility. Here are links to the press release and backgrounder.

Correspondence and Deputations

5.1 – the deputation on the Mission Park rejuvenation, item 9.2.1 below, was very well received by council. This initiative is being championed by the town’s chief administrative officer, and seemed to develop real traction.

Resolutions and Directions to Staff

9.1.1 – the whole issue of Off Road Vehicle (ORV) use in Parry Sound was actively debated with a couple of councillors showing support for consideration of some sort of ATV approval in town. The resolution was defeated with council agreeing with staff that an ORV by-law not be drafted, at least for now. The key issues raised by those not in favour of a by-law were: the need for a new agreement with the OPP which would be much too costly, and the lack of ‘sponsorship’ by organized ATV groups. The access that snowmobiles enjoy in town is due in large part to the financial support and ‘policing’ provided by formal snowmobile clubs. There is nothing similar with ATV (ORV) riders who in general are loathe to pay for the privilege of operating their vehicles on what they consider to be publicly funded roads and trails. Council requested the by-law department pick up the topic again in the late summer when there is time to further investigate the logistics of some sort of local ORV access. Council sees challenges with permitting ORVs in town but is willing to consider reasonable options, which would need to include handling the policing costs.

9.2.1 – council approved a resolution to endorse a grant application to Canadian National Railways to rehabilitate Mission Park. They also kicked in another $4,000, for a total of $8,000 of ‘in kind’ support. Council was effusive in their support for more park and recreation facilities for the Mission Park area of town. Council also asked that $25,000 for park equipment, for all town parks, be included in the 2013 budget discussions. This won’t impact the 2013 levy as the funds would be taken from the well-funded parkland reserve fund.

9.4.1 – council rejected a variance in the current signage by-laws to permit a realtor’s sign next to a downtown mural.

9.4.2 – a request that council endorse in principle the Downtown Business Association’s downtown revitalization plan was carried.

9.4.3 – council approved issuing a Request for Proposal (RFP) regarding use of the Old Fire Hall. This is similar to the RFP that was issued for the CP Station and resulted in a long term lease with Festival of the Sound.

9.5.1 – a resolution for approval of E.A. Shipman’s tender in the amount of $354,000 for the modification of Sewage Station #11 was carried. Note this station serves the east side of town (Bowes Street), not the downtown as reported in my council preview notes.

9.5.2 – a resolution to have the town accept the Bridge Inspections report was approved. In all the bridges need an estimated $1.2 million in repair work over the next ten years was accepted by council.

By-Laws

10.2.1 – council approved a by-law to provide a Schedule of Retention Periods for the records of the Town of Parry Sound and establish a Records Management Policy.

10.4.1 – a by-law to declare property surplus and identify a means of sale for Town owned property on MacFarlane Street was carried with an expectation that the property would be listed in mid-April.

10.4.2 –  the town approved a by-law to permit ORVs on Parry Sound town streets for the annual ATV Spring Jam. The dates are April 26 & 27.

There was more. This post attempts to capture the more critical items in the eyes of the writer.

Bridge Philosopher and Critic’s Review

ParrySights-2776

Council Agenda Preview – March 19, 2013

17 Sunday Mar 2013

Posted by in Parry Sound, Town Council

≈ Comments Off on Council Agenda Preview – March 19, 2013

Tags

, , , , ,

This is another light meeting in terms of the agenda items. The council meeting is preceded by an open meeting presenting and reviewing the town’s official plan.

Correspondence and Deputations:

4.1 – there is a letter from the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs announcing a municipal politicians seminar on the May 5th and 6th.

5.1 – there is a scheduled deputation on the Mission Park rejuvenation – see item 9.2.1 below.

Resolutions and Directions to Staff

9.1.1 – town staff is recommending that Parry Sound not adopt an Off Road Vehicle (ORV) by-law as was requested by a member of the public at a recent town council meeting. In reading the supporting materials I see that there is no clear cut and dry argument for or against the use of ORV on Parry Sound streets. The cons relate to: the need for an agreement with the OPP to police their use, damage to the town infrastructure (road edges) and the need to provide limits on where they might go. There are a number of parties in favour of the wider use of ORVs in Parry Sound. The report to council is quite detailed and worth reading. My sense is that council will accept the staff recommendation, but with additional work by interested groups it is possible that ORVs may, with time, be permitted for limited use in town.

9.2.1 – a resolution on the agenda for council to endorse a grant application to Canadian National Railways to rehabilitate Mission Park. The resolution also requests $4,000 from the town’s Tree Planting budget, and that $25,000 be considered for inclusion in the 2013 budget, or funding from the Parkland Reserve Fund.

9.4.2 – is a request that council endorse in principle the Downtown Business Association’s downtown revitalization plan. The full plan, along with details will be provided to council at a later date.

9.4.3 – staff is requesting approval to issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) regarding use of the Old Fire Hall. This is similar to the RFP that was issued for the CP Station and resulted in a long term lease with Festival of the Sound.

9.5.1 – is a resolution requesting approval for a tender in the amount of $354 thousand for the modification of Sewage Station #11, that serves Parry Sound downtown. The tenders received ranged from a low of $354 thousand to a high of $486 thousand.

9.5.2 – is a resolution to have the town accept the Bridge Inspections report. In all the bridges need an estimated $1.2 million in repair work over the next ten years. The big pieces are: patch and pave ($200,000), and replace joints ($150,000) on the Seguin Street Bridge, and sandblast and paint ($400,000) the Fitness Trail’s Seguin pedestrian bridge. Ouch.

By-Laws

10.2.1 – is a by-law to provide a Schedule of Retention Periods for the records of the Town of Parry Sound; establish a Records Management Policy.

10.4.1 – is a by-law to declare property surplus and identify a means of sale for Town owned property on MacFarlane Street.

10.4.2 – is a by-law to permit ORVs on Parry Sound town streets for the annual ATV Spring Jam. The dates are April 26 & 27.

There was more. This post attempts to capture the more important agenda items. See you there.

Bridge Art 2012 – Anarchy

ParrySounds-5624

Council Meeting Summary – March 5, 2013

07 Thursday Mar 2013

Posted by in Parry Sound, Town Council

≈ Comments Off on Council Meeting Summary – March 5, 2013

Tags

, , , , ,

Correspondence and Deputations:

4.1, 4.2, 4.3 – three letters of correspondence were noted, and forwarded on to the appropriate department for follow up. See the council preview post for details and my initial comments.

There were no scheduled deputations this week.

Questions of Staff:

There was a question of staff regarding snow removal, particularly the snow banks lining the town streets. It was explained that the front end loader had been out of commission. It was now fixed so snow bank clearing could resume. As I walked home along Bowes Street after the council meeting I saw it in action with three dump trucks waiting to be filled.

There was also a question about the stability of the east side wall of the Bobby Orr Community Centre. Apparently some movement has been seen in the wall. The Public Works director said that the situation was being actively monitored by town staff and the engineering firm responsible for the design. There should be further information in a month or so.

Mayor and Councillor Reports (in order of presentation, and selected highlights only):

Bonnie Keith – reported on the Belvedere Heights board meeting and noted that the library is looking for additional funding.

Dan McCauley – my apologies to the councillor. My pen ran out during his report and I resorted to waving my pen around in hopes of forcing enough ink forward to make it through the end of the meeting. No luck, I was forced to take notes on my iPod Touch (not easy). Anyway, he reported that the federal boundaries will not be changed. We are still part of Northern Ontario. Also, the town’s infrastructure grant application to the province has passed the first hurdle, but there are additional reviews coming.

Paul Borneman – fuel sales are down at the airport, and there are some discussions about expanded use of the airport.

Jamie McGarvey – according to a review by McSweeney and Associates Parry Sound has the lowest tax rates, per dollar of assessed property, of the fifteen Northern Ontario towns surveyed. I think this report, or perhaps how it is interpreted, needs some explanation. I believe it’s not quite so simple to conclude we have the lowest tax rates. I’ll post my thoughts on this next week.

Resolutions and Directions to Staff

9.1.1 – a resolution to discontinue negotiations with Creative Outdoor Advertising was approved, but not after too much debate, in my opinion. A couple of the councillors seem to think that the time required to negotiate and manage this marketing program is worth the thousand bucks or so. It seems we only get about 10% of the revenue the company charges the advertisers. We really don’t need to junk up the town with these bench billboards. How about a billboard on the side the Municipal Office for a thousand bucks? Or as I mentioned in my last post how about signs during council meetings at each of the councillor’s seats with advertising. The same idea as what is being done at the Stockey Centre. A couple of the councillors should be able to secure premium fees given the amount of time they speak and the corresponding exposure an ad would receive on Cogeco. Enough said.

9.2.1 –a direction to develop a records retention policy was approved with limited discussion.

9.4.2 – Ribfest is back for 2013, from July 11th to 14th. The resolution to lift the noise restrictions for the duration of the event was carried. Town staff was tasked with identifying additional activities that could be run in parallel with Ribfest. Staff said they would need to speak with the organizers of Ribfest to get their agreement. There are contractual and logistical issues that need to be addressed.

9.5.1, 9.5.2 – the two resolutions to accept the annual water treatment and waste water reports were carried. The councillors were effusive in their praise for the way these two facilities are operated.

9.5.3 – a resolution to accept the proposed video surveillance policy was carried without any real discussion.

9.6.2 – a resolution to accept the IBI Report recommendation for the Argyle EMS station was approved.

By-Laws

10.2.1 – a by-law to increase the cemetery fees was carried.

10.4.1 – a by-law to renew, with revisions, the Now That’s Catering agreement for catering services at the Stockey Centre received considerable discussion before being approved. Council asked whether people renting the facility could specify their own caterer. The answer was no, all parties are required to use Now That’s Catering. The primary reason was to ensure consistent management of the Stockey Centre’s kitchen, an issue for food safety inspections, and this would limit the burden placed upon Stockey staff. However, non-profit organizations would be able to bring in their own food and refreshments so long as they did not require use of the Stockey Centre’s kitchen. So, some revisions were made to the agreement that seem to meet the greater needs of all parties involved. The Stockey Centre manager agreed to monitor, and report back to council, whether the limitation of a single caterer was negatively impacting rentals.

10.4.2 – a by-law to rezone town property for the proposed Age in Place development beside Canadore College was carried with limited discussion.

10.4.3 – a by-law to declare surplus and put up for sale the lots carved out of the William Street Park was carried. This is the next step in the process to capture value for the properties and to spur additional development. The town is proposing to put the proceeds into a reserve.

10.4.4 – a by-law to close up the Sarah and Clara Street road allowances was carried. As I discovered at the meeting these pieces of property can be put up for sale by the town regardless of whether or not the province agrees to lift the restricting covenant. These are small non-existent streets off George Street and are part of the larger property the town hopes to put up for sale if the province agrees.

There was more but this post tries to capture the more important points of the meeting.

Click on the link below and it will take you to http://www.parrysights.com, where I have combined the Bridge Art photos into two videos. This will link you to Part 2.

Bridge Art – The Video (Part 2)

Bridge Art - Smile

Council Agenda Preview – March 5, 2013

05 Tuesday Mar 2013

Posted by in Parry Sound, Town Council

≈ 1 Comment

Tags

, , , , , , , , , , ,

Agenda Highlights:

Correspondence and Deputations:

4.1, 4.2, 4.3 – there are three letters of correspondence. All three are interesting in their own way, and I offer a few comments.

Near North District School Board (NNDSB) is requesting quick town review and approval for investments in water supply, road upgrades and sidewalks. The NNDSB is prepared to make these investments at their own cost, but with town approval. It is not that simple of course. The NNDSB also included proposals for the Town of Parry sound to co-invest in upgrades to these investments that would improve town facilities, at a price that could exceed $500,000. And they want a quick decision to allow pre-construction of the new school to start this spring. I’m sure this will be a topic for the budget discussion review on the 6th.

The West Parry Sound District Museum Board is requesting a $25,000 grant for 2013. This is a regular request and represents the direct financial support the Town of Parry Sound provides to the museum, in addition to the outstanding loan.

The Belvedere Heights Board has presented the 2013 annual levy for Belvedere Heights. The amount for 2013 is a little less than $100,000. What is interesting is the attachment that lists the weighted assessments for the various surrounding communities. Parry Sound’s ’weighted’ assessment is about $717 million and Carling’s is $775 million. The assessment for the Township of the Archipelago’s is $1.7 billion, and for Seguin almost $2.8 billion. These figures provide a good idea of where the ‘money’ really is, as far as property assessments are concerned and makes one wonder why some communities are so reticent to support facilities in other municipalities that their own residents regularly use. Oh, yeah, it’s because they like to keep their taxes low for the benefit of the seasonal residents who claim they don’t use those services.

There are no scheduled deputations this week.

Resolutions and Directions to Staff

9.1.1 – is resolution to discontinue negotiations with Creative Outdoor Advertising. This is the group that would place benches in Parry Sound with advertising on the back. I’m not sure why the discussions are being terminated but I’m in agreement. The upside to the town was on the order of $1,000 per year and would have, in m opinion, ‘junked’ up the town. If the councillors would like to see more revenue from advertising perhaps should consider placards, sort of like the Bobby Orr Community Centre, displayed at council meetings that would be seen during the council meeting replays on Cogeco. Each of the councillors could have their own brand in front of their microphone. Some councillors would be able to get more than others for their their ‘seat’ location based on their actual contributions at the council meetings.

9.2.1 – is a direction to develop a records retention policy.

9.4.2 – Ribfest is back for 2013, from July 11th to 14th. This is a resolution to lift the noise restrictions for the duration of the event.

9.5.1, 9.5.2 – these are a pair of resolutions to accept the annual water treatment and waste water reports. These reports make for rather interesting reading. I’ll probably prepare a post next week summarizing the town’s water operations.

9.5.3 – this is a resolution to accept the proposed video surveillance policy. It’s worth noting that the town regularly has video surveillance of the Municipal Office, the water booster station at Church and Isabella (the high school challenge), the dog pound, the public works yard and the transfer station. So, be on your best behaviour when in these area – you’re on candid camera. The policy and program makes sense to me.

9.6.2 – this is a resolution to accept the IBI Report recommendation for the Argyle EMS station.

By-Laws

10.2.1 – is a by-law to increase the cemetery fees, and follows last meeting’s acceptance of the fee increase by council (about 10%).

10.4.1 – is a by-law to renew, with revisions, the Now That’s Catering agreement for catering services at the Stockey Centre. The revised agreement provides the Stockey Centre with a little more flexibility with respect to food privileges for non-profit organizations.

10.4.2 – is a by-law to rezone town property for the proposed Age in Place development beside Canadore College. At this point I find the proposed rezoning non-controversial and look forward to the start of construction.

10.4.3 – is a by-law to declare surplus and put up for sale the lots carved out of the William Street Park. This is the next step of the planned disposal of town property to capture value for the properties and to spur additional development. The town is proposing to put the proceeds into a reserve.

10.4.4 – another by-law, this one to close up the Sarah and Clara Street road allowances. These are small non-existent streets off George Street and the process is part of the preparations for the sale of lots on George Street. This of course will ultimately depend on the agreement of the province as the lands proposed for rezoning and eventual development were given to the town with the provision that they were to be used for non-residential and commercial uses.

There’s a bit more on the agenda, but really not worth mentioning here. See you tonight (I will be there).

Click on the link below and it will take you to http://www.parrysights.com, where I have combined the Bridge Art photos into two videos. This will link you to Part 1.

Bridge Art – The Video (Part 1)

Parry Sound Bridge Art – 1

Council Agenda Preview – February 19, 2013

18 Monday Feb 2013

Posted by in Parry Sound, Town Council

≈ Comments Off on Council Agenda Preview – February 19, 2013

Tags

, , , , ,

There is very little on the agenda this week of any real importance. There are only a limited number of agenda items. The closed portion of the meeting does have Parry Sound Hydro Corporation on the agenda. I suspect they are further discussing the generation upgrade.

Correspondence and Deputations:

4.1 – One letter was received, it was from the Ontario Ministry of Education in response to council’s letter asking for provincial involvement in the Near North School Board decision to move the Grade 7 and 8 students. The letter basically says that this is a local rather than provincial issue and that everybody needs to pay attention to good communication regarding decisions. I can agree with that.

5.1, 5.2 – Two deputations are scheduled, both from companies presenting their capabilities, presumably in hopes of capturing new business.

Agenda Highlights:

2.1.1 – is a public meeting to review the proposed rezoning for the ‘Age in Place’ facility. I’ve seen the available information. It seems non-controversial.

9.2.1 – is a direction to advise the public that the fees for cemetery services will be increased. This gets the fees closer to the actual costs, with higher fees for non-residents.

9.4.1 – comments and revisions to the town’s official plan are back on the agenda as a direction to staff.

9.6.1 – is a resolution arising from the Mayors-Chiefs-Reeves meeting held on February 6th regarding the low water levels in the Great Lakes. It basically requests action be taken to study and address the problem. It’s a start. The council package contains a report of the actual meeting that is worth reviewing. I have requested an electronic copy of the document that I can share with the public.

10.2.1 – is a by-law to enter into an agreement with a provider to supply family assistance services for town employees.

10.2.2 – another by-law, this one to increase fees for certain services provided by the town. This is all part of closing the budget gap. I guess this is reasonable as it increases costs for those who use the services and spares those that don’t. None of the increases seems egregious.

That’s it. I skipped none of the agenda items. And as long as none of the councillors takes more than the time allotted for their report we will be out of there no later than 8:30, even with the rezoning session. See you there.

If you didn’t get out on the trails this past weekend you missed the very best weekend of the winter so far. We are lucky to have the trails we do, so go out and enjoy them. I did, which explains in part why this post is a little later than usual. I’ve posted below one of the many photos I took over the weekend. It’s a late afternoon shot from the North Shore Rugged Trail.

I have turned the many Bridge Art photos into a couple of short videos. Take a look if you want to be reminded of what can be found behind the Rotary Algonquin Regiment Fitness Trail bridges. Here’s a link to where they are hosted at ParrySights. This site posts up a daily photo that features life in and around Parry Sound. One of the town councillors was featured February 1st, so take a peek.

The Sound – As Cold as Ice

ParrySights-4451

Council Meeting Summary – February 5, 2013

08 Friday Feb 2013

Posted by in Parry Sound, Town Council

≈ Comments Off on Council Meeting Summary – February 5, 2013

Tags

, , , , , , , ,

Well my request for media privileges was denied. I have already posted on this, no need to discuss it further. Here’s a link to my earlier post, or just scroll down this page past this article to find it. Oh, just as I was getting a link for the item below I see that the North Star has put together their overview of the matter. Here’s the link although I expect it’s in the Beacon Star today (their free Friday publication).

The North Star has done a very nice article on the senior staff reorganization in town hall I mentioned in my council meeting preview. I won’t discuss it further and just point you to their online article. (I recommend a subscription to the North Star, there’s something nice about reading things in print. And it ensures we continue to get local news coverage like this.)

Meeting Highlights

Councillors and Mayor Reports:

Seguin Township will provide $10,000 in support of the Stockey Centre for 2013. That’s great, but it doesn’t go very far in covering the centre’s 2013 budgeted shortfall of $275,000.

There was a mention that many Ontario municipalities are facing major investments in aging infrastructure, with little hope for provincial support. Belleville is preparing to take on $80 million dollars of bonds and loans to meet its infrastructure expanses. That’s for a town with a population about eight times that of Parry Sound. Previous councils in Parry Sound were able to take advantage of matching provincial grants to replace and update our infrastructure, so we are a bit better off than other municipalities, albeit with some debt on the books.

Correspondence and Deputations:

Of the three letters received one, concerning an animal shelter, was put on the meeting agenda as item 9.1.1 and received extensive discussion.

There were four deputations, two of them primarily of an update nature from Georgian Bay Country Tourism, and the West Parry Sound Health Centre and Lakeland Long Term Care. The other two were my request for media privileges (agenda item 9.2.2), and another requesting a by-law to permit the limited use of all-terrain vehicles in town.

9.1.1 – a resolution to advise the community that Parry Sound cannot support an animal shelter was postponed pending further research and inquiry with neighbouring communities regarding their interest and support for such an initiative. Apparently there is an offer of $50,000 in private support for a local animal shelter. A second resolution regarding a $3,5000 budget item for the spaying and neutering of feral cats was also postponed.

9.1.2, 9.1.3 – resolutions related to fines and new parking meters were approved although there were two dissenting votes. The objections were largely related to the fact that the approval for a new parking machine should not be accepted in the absence of an approved budget.

Question to staff and council – why isn’t the 2013 budget ready for January 1st? Isn’t that when the budget year starts? I am aware of some collective bargaining issues and funding issues impacting the budget that will only be available later, but 80% of the budget could be reviewed, agreed, and ‘in the can’ by year end. Much of this silly ‘we can’t agree to this now’ language could then be eliminated. It sounds very bureaucratic. “I’m sorry M’am the hospital staff couldn’t attend to your son’s injuries because his accident isn’t in the current budget and we haven’t finalized the new one.” Come on council, roll with it, or get that 80% of the budget done by Christmas so you have the ability to make decisions. Council, you will still need to make the tough decisions, which it seems are more determined by personal philosophy than the budget. But the ‘crush’ of a final budget discussion can provide cover for unpopular decisions. “There was so much to review I guess it just was missed. Sorry about that.”

9.2.1 – the 2012 Annual Report of the Integrity Commissioner was approved without discussion. Yes, I will request a copy and let you know if anything of interest is included.

9.2.2 –a direction to deny my request for media privileges was carried. My blog was scurrilously impugned as an ‘information and opinion website’. I’d like to think of it as an ‘information and analysis website’. But you can only provide ‘analysis’ if you are provided the requested public domain information. I’ll keep asking for it. I’m sure the response of council would be the same, regardless of any label of opinion or analysis. At the same time council approved a resolution to extend media privileges solely to journalists employed by media outlets. I don’t believe they defined a media outlet.

9.2.3 – a direction to advise the public of amendments to the Fees and Services By-laws was approved.

9.2.4 –a resolution to approve the 2013 Key Performance Objectives Departmental Summary was carried. I’ll review it and provide details.

9.4.1 – a resolution to accept two offers for the purchase of property in town was carried.

9.4.2 – a direction to offer an additional two lots for sales by tender on MacFarlane Street was approved.

9.4.3 – revisions to the draft Official Plan were postponed until the next meeting of council.

9.6.1 – a resolution for council to endorse pre-budget approval of $5,000 to sponsor the Festival of the Sound’s opening weekend this summer was defeated even though this was a time sensitive issue. Because there isn’t an approved budget a decision to discuss the merits of the request could not even be entered into. I’m starting to think the role of this blog is less analysis than performing the role of the Greek chorus. For the lack of a budget a council was paralyzed. This whole budget process seems more a topic for a play by Aristophanes than Sophocles or Euripides, that is comedy rather than tragedy.

10.4.1 – an agreement with MasterCard to sponsor the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame and the associated golf tournament was approved. For 2013 MasterCard will pay $35,000 for this privilege.

10.4.2 – a by-law to update fees and charges for planning services was carried.

A couple of late agenda items were added. These included the granting of a 6-month temporary taxi license, and the addition of another individual to the Citizen’s Finance Committee. A closed meeting reorganization included a change in the status of a Stockey Centre employee from permanent full-time to permanent part-time. This will save $25,000 per year and help close the Stockey Centre’s 2013 funding gap.

The next meeting of council is February 19th. See you there.

Note: this is the last of the ‘official’ images painted on the fitness trail bridge and brings an end to the photos that have been included in posts related to official town business. To the students, parents and teachers of Parry Sound, especially Victory School, I offer congratulations and thanks for sharing your art and your vision.

Bridge Art – So long and thanks for the images.

BridgeArt - Learn

Council Meeting Summary – January 15, 2013

16 Wednesday Jan 2013

Posted by in Parry Sound, Town Council

≈ Comments Off on Council Meeting Summary – January 15, 2013

Tags

, , , , , , ,

Okay, so town council has my full attention now with regard to how they are ‘running’ big issues through the system with limited public oversight. Yes they are our elected representatives given the authority to make decisions on our behalf. But let’s be sure these decisions are made in the light of day. Here’s a link to a post earlier today about what has me very concerned.

Good news, the heat in the BOCC seems to be operational although it will take time to balance the system. Less good news about the Kinsmen rink. The recent warm weather has made it impossible to establish the ice although the upcoming cold snap should take care of that problem.

The rest of last night’s council meeting was not contentious or controversial. Here is my take on the various items.

Meeting Highlights:

5.1 – the Downtown Business Association’s (DBA) deputation provided insight into the investments they are planning to enhance the appearance of the downtown for residents and visitors. My understanding is that they will be requesting town permission to rearrange some of the current parking spots to accommodate these changes.

9.1.1 – a resolution accepting a $7.9 million EMS budget for 2013, with the town’s portion of about $222,000, was approved.

9.2.2, 9.2.3 – resolutions to accept the various town business objectives for 2013 and the town’s strategic plan were carried. I’ll go over them in the next few days but have already noted a few interesting changes in the town operations.

9.4.1 – a  resolution to increase and add planning fees was carried. There was a bit of a misunderstanding in what was being presented and how it was to be approved that may need to be cleared up at the next council meeting. Bottom line – the fees are going up.

9.4.2 – council passed a resolution to accept an offer of $41,500 for the town property referred to as the ‘former waterworks standpipe property’ on Isabella Street. One councillor did raise the issue of whether the tender process was the most appropriate way to handle this sale. I thought the response from staff was too dismissive. There is an issue. All is not necessarily well that ends well. See my council preview notes item 9.4.2 for thoughts on the matter.

9.4.3 – this is the issue that is causing me concern. This particular item was only the tip of the iceberg in terms of what was agreed. In the closed session of council the town discussed and tentatively reached agreement on approving a proposal to develop a 60 residence ‘Age in Place’ complex north of Canadore College. This was then voted upon and approved in the open session. Net/net – 60 residences, 6.45 acres sold for $250,000 and who knows what other considerations/concessions. We get more public information about the cost of the salt and sand the town buys than for a multi-million dollar complex. I have started to ask questions and will provide more information as it is made available.

9.4.4 – a resolution to approve the Canada Day budget was carried. The cost will be about $11,000 if a Celebrate Canada grant is received, $17,000 if it isn’t.

9.6.1 – council approved considering support of Festival of the Sound’s opening night performance for $5,000 as part of the 2013 budget. But this proposal still needs to get through the budget process that starts tonight.

9.6.2 – an agenda item to discuss the use of the Fitness Trail as a footpath and snowmobile trail was quite different than I thought. It concerns the trail north of the mall. Staff will look into options to accommodate the interests of snow machine operators and people who walk on the path.

10.4.1 – a by-law to allow the town to enter into an agreement with JJ Mackay Canada Limited to provide parking ticket management software was carried.

10.4.2 – a by-law to designate the Old Pump House as having cultural heritage value or interest was carried.

10.4.3 – council approved a by-law to enter into a 5-year agreement with the Chamber of Commerce to operate the Town Dock and Big Sound Marina. It seems a good deal for the town, residents and visitors. And this year the staff at the town dock will not be taking any S*%T from their customers. They will be sending them to local marinas for pump outs.

10.6.1 – a by-law to confirm the proceedings of Parry Sound Hydro Corporation board of directors meetings June 25, July 25 and August 31, 2012 was carried.

See you tonight at the budget meeting. It starts at 6:00. Stay tuned for more information on the new ‘Age in Place’ development approved by council. Please refer to the town’s website for a copy of the complete meeting’s minutes when they are published, probably Thursday or Friday.

Bridge Art – Obscure the ViewBridgeArt - Envision

Council Agenda Preview – January 15, 2013

13 Sunday Jan 2013

Posted by in Parry Sound, Town Council

≈ 1 Comment

Tags

, , , , , , , ,

It’s been almost a month since the last council meeting. Surprisingly this week’s agenda has few critical issues to be decided and agreed. The ‘elephant in the room’ of course is the 2013 budget for which the kick-off discussion is scheduled for this Wednesday starting at 6:00 in the Council Chambers. I suggest you be there is you want to understand how they make ‘sausage’. It’s not pretty but it’s worth understanding how and why your taxes went up this year.

Congratulations to Gail MacDonald on the receipt of the Order of Parry Sound. This honour recognizes her many community contributions, most notably with Harvest Share.

I’ve sent a request to council for media credentials to provide better coverage of the council meetings. As it stands now I am unable to attend meetings that are restricted to council and the ‘official’ media. In addition I have been told that I am not permitted to make audio or video recordings of the council meetings despite the fact that the meeting is recorded and rebroadcast by Cogeco, and the local media regularly record portions of the meeting for broadcast. It’s on the agenda this week as a letter.

Agenda Highlights:

5.1 – the Downtown Business Association (DBA) is making a deputation to request town support for its revitalization activities. This includes an investment in physical enhancements to make the downtown more appealing to residents and visitors.

9.1.1 – is a resolution accepting a $7.9 million EMS budget for 2013. The town’s portion of this cost is about $222,000, about 2% higher than last year.

9.2.2, 9.2.3 – are resolutions to accept the various town business objectives for 2013 and the town’s strategic plan. I have not taken the time to read the details of the objectives and will provide a separate overview in a few days after I’ve had a chance to go over it in more detail.

9.4.1 – is another resolution to increase and add planning fees. For the most part these are ‘nickel and dime’ increases that bring our costs up to provincial municipal averages.

9.4.2 – is a resolution to accept an offer of $41,500 for the town property referred to as the ‘former waterworks standpipe property’ on Isabella Street. It’s worth noting that the other bids received fort he property were: $28,000, $16,500 and $8,000. The town believes the high bid is reasonable and acceptable. I wonder though if the process, not necessarily this tender, is flawed. How can there reasonably be a 5-fold difference in the bids if the process is open, transparent and the all participants have the appropriate information? Is the process flawed? Are some of the bidders not sufficiently experienced to make reasonable bids? Even throwing out the high and low bids, there is a difference of almost 80%, too big a difference to make me comfortable with the process. It’s worth reconsidering the tender process as was previously suggested by one of the councillors.

9.4.3 – is a direction to town staff to prepare a by-law that rezones a portion of town owned land north of Canadore College to permit its use for the development of a retirement residence. Personally I’m glad to see additional development in town as long as the development carries its fair share of the municipal costs. The town already has a number of federal, provincial and community facilities that benefit from reduced taxes in consideration of their contribution to local employment. It’s sort of like buying something on sale. It may be a good buy, but you still need to find the money to pay for it.

9.4.4 – is a resolution to approve the Canada Day budget. The net/net is that it will cost the town on the order of $11,000 if a Celebrate Canada grant is received. It will be about $17,000 if the grant isn’t received. There are a few interesting points: the firework themselves cost about $8,000. That’s about $0.50 to $1.00 per person for those who watch the fireworks; a relative bargain in my opinion. Neither the Parry Sound Chamber of Commerce nor the DBA will be contributing financially to this year’s events. I know money is tight at both organizations, but I wonder if their withdrawal from the Canada Day events is a statement of sorts.

9.6.1 – is a direction for staff follow up in regard to supporting the Festival of the Sound’s opening night to the tune of $5,000. This is the 10th anniversary of the Festival’s program at the Stockey Centre.

9.6.2 – is an agenda item to discuss the use of the Fitness Trail as a footpath and snowmobile trail. Right now it’s a moot point given the warm weather and rain, but it’s worth a discussion. I often walk on the trail in the winter and keep my eye out for snow machines. I find the snowmobilers are more courteous than the occasional e-bike riders that sneak onto the trail in the spring, summer and fall.

10.4.1 – is a by-law to allow the town to enter into an agreement with JJ Mackay Canada Limited to provide parking ticket management software. The cost is about $2,400.

10.4.2 – is a by-law to designate the Old Pump House as having cultural heritage value or interest. This follows up earlier by-laws and resolutions. The by-law includes a statement of the heritage attributes.

10.4.3 – is a by-law to enter into a 5-year agreement with the Chamber of Commerce to operate the Town Dock and Big Sound Marina. The Chamber has been operating these facilities for the last few years. This agreement restructures the arrangement and the lease terms. The materials in the council package are not sufficient for me to properly understand the benefits of the agreement to the two parties. In theory the town will receive almost twice as much in 2013, some10% of ‘normalized’ revenue, as it would have under the previous agreement. The actual amount received in 2011 was $6,560, which implies a revenue stream of about $130,000 in 2011. Given that the operation of the two facilities is not a ‘gold mine’ I’m surprised by the change in the terms and only imagine the Chamber feels there will be an increase in revenue for the years to come.

10.6.1 – is a by-law to confirm the proceedings of Parry Sound Hydro Corporation board of directors meetings June 25, July 25 and August 31, 2012. There is no information in these minutes that provides any insight into their operations.

Remember there is a budget meeting on the 16th that you should plan to attend. I’ll be watching the proceedings trying to understand the various staff and council agendas. I’ll also be at the council meeting at the 15th, see you there.

If you want to know what went down last year at council I have compiled all of the council minutes in a single PDF document that can be easily searched.

Bridge Art – Beyond Dreaming?

Bridge Art - Dream

 

2012 Council Minutes Compilation

31 Monday Dec 2012

Posted by in Parry Sound, Town Council

≈ Comments Off on 2012 Council Minutes Compilation

Tags

, ,

Here’s a link to a single compiled list of all the Parry Sound Council minutes for 2012 in Adobe Acrobat Portable Document Format (PDF). This file is fully searchable using the search function in Adobe Acrobat, including the free Acrobat Reader.

So if you are wondering about what Parry Sound town council might have posted in their minutes about Belvedere Hill, you would just put “Belvedere” (without the quotes) into the search field and it will provide you with all instances of where the term arises in the minutes. It’s a great way to find and follow a topic as it was discussed at the meetings of council.

Happy New Year to all and see you at the Mayor’s Levee in a couple of weeks. I’ve started a new website, www.parrysights.com, that will post up photos and videos of life in and around Parry Sound. Check it out when you have some time. Starting in 2013 I’ll be posting a photo of the day, that may be from the current season, a past season, or from town archival material.

Bridge Art – Midwinter Stroll

BridgeArt - Midnight Stroll