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Council Agenda Preview – August 16, 2018

11 Saturday Aug 2018

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Reviewing the Town of Parry Sound Council Agenda and the attachments provides insights into the issues the Town faces and is wrestling with that don’t surface in most discussions or editorials. This week’s agenda is a reminder of a couple of these issues:

4.5, 10.1.2 – Intensification. The Town of Parry Sound occupies a unique position in the larger region with respect to real estate and services.

Properties represent an especially interesting dilemma. With two trans Canada train lines running through the Town with the accompanying noise and pollution, and no available waterfront property, there is little incentive for the construction of higher end residential properties in Parry Sound. If you want peace and quiet, albeit with a bit of travel for services (and limited high-speed internet) you build your dream home in one of the neighbouring municipalities. As a bonus you pay about half the property taxes that you would in Parry Sound. That leaves Parry Sound property best suited for lower cost, and higher density, development, including subsidized housing. Since there is such a shortage of lower cost rental properties in the area, renters really can’t quibble about the trains. This is neither good nor bad, it reflects market realities. There is little possibility that Parry Sound will ever be subject to gentrification. It’s all about the trains, an issue that no one wants to acknowledge and address. (Yes, there is little that can be done, but sometimes acknowledging a reality can lead to creative solutions.) The issue is that Parry Sound is undergoing the opposite of gentrification, and that’s probably not ideal, certainly not balanced. There are too many landlords, and would be landlords, in Parry Sound who want to cram as many people as possible in the smallest space possible with the lowest construction costs possible. There is nothing wrong with this approach, it makes the best possible use of the available land. This may explain in part why Parry Sound isn’t as pretty as Port Carling or Bracebridge or Huntsville. Why spend money on aesthetics if it’s a rental property? An architect with an inspired design, and a few more windows, only cost more and likely will have higher operating costs. Many of the stately older homes in Town have been renovated to permit multiple apartments, and it’s likely that more and more will be converted. Why would an individual spend the money to buy and update an older home when they can get more for less in one of the neighbouring municipalities?

Both 4.5 (subsidized housing) and 10.1.2 (triplet to quadplex) represent another step in this direction. Like putting on a few pounds, it’s best to acknowledge the change rather than ignore it or pretend our underwear has shrunk. Perhaps adding on a few more pounds is exactly what we wanted, or perhaps not.

9.3.1– Expenses: The most interesting part of this short item is the decision by Council to refinance the Smelter Wharf loan rather than pay it off as planned. I wonder what the thinking was on this? Also notable is the uncollectable amounts related to tax appeals. It seems that the Big Box stores continue to appeal for lower assessments, and the town doesn’t expect to win. From the agenda package (bold highlights are my addition):
“Total tax levy surplus in 2017 amounted $197,319, mainly due to the refinancing of the Smelter Wharf loan ($324k) which was budgeted to be paid off, and a one-time grant from the Province to compensate for the loss of tax revenue on the Lakeland Long-Term Care facility ($173k), offset by higher allowance for anticipated uncollectable tax amounts for the properties under appeals (-$240k)and winter control expenses (-$83k). During the year, staff adjusted the timing of some approved expenditures based on operational needs and resource availability. As a result, some expenditures that would be funded by reserves or reserve funds have been delayed into 2018. The delay will have no impact on the 2018 levy.”

Closed Session

(c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board; (Agreement of Purchase and Sale)

Correspondence

4.1 – Parry Sound Active Transportation Committee. Writing with concerns about the safety of St. Charles crossing on Isabella St for pedestrians and cyclists.

4.3 Parry Sound Anglers and Hunters Sportsman’s Gun Show, August 25th, 2018. Concerning denial of their request for a sandwich board sign near McDonald’s for their gun show which will be held in MacTier this year due to their temporary relocation due to scheduled renovations at BOCC.

4.5 – Parry Sound Affordable Housing Development Corporation. Requesting support in principle in the development of an affordable housing initiative on Waubeek Street in partnership with Parry Sound DSSAB.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 – Application for Council Approved Sign – 21 William Street. Resolution. That pursuant to section 3.(4) of the Sign By-law, the Chief Building Official is authorized to issue a permit for a ground sign in front of 21 William Street pursuant to the following conditions and variances:
a) The appearance and size of the sign shall be substantially according to the application,
b) The setback for the sign may be as little as 1.0m from the back of the sidewalk, and
c) All other regulations in the sign by-law continue to apply except for those revised by this resolution.

9.3.1 – 2017 Year End Transfers. Resolution. That Council approves the transfers to and from Reserves as summarized in Schedule A attached; That Council approves the transfers to and from Reserve Funds as summarized in Schedule B attached; And That 2017 capital projects which were previously budgeted to be funded from reserves or reserve funds may be completed in 2018.

9.3.2 – 2017 Audited Financial Statements. Resolution. That Council for the Town of Parry Sound does hereby approve the Draft Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2017 as attached in Schedule A.

9.5.1 – Sandwich Board signs for events outside of Parry Sound borders. Direction. That staff be directed to explore the option of delegating approval and terms/conditions for the placement of signs on town property to advertise events outside of the boundaries of the Town of Parry Sound to the CAO.

By-laws

10.1.1 – Declaration of Surplus Lands. By-law 2018 – 6856. Being a By-law to declare Lot 1 of Plan 63 in the Town of Parry Sound surplus to the Town of Parry Sound.

10.1.2 – Rezoning Application – Z/18/5 – 24 Albert Street (Jackson on behalf of Moore). By-law 2018 – 6857. Being a By-law to amend By-law 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for 24 Albert Street (Jackson on Behalf of Moore).

10.1.3 – Big Sound Marina Agreement One Year Extension with Massasauga Management Co. By-law 2018 – 6858. Being a bylaw to amend By-law No: 2014-6428, the operating agreement between Massasauga Management Co. Inc. and the Town of Parry Sound for operation of Big Sound Marina and the Town Dock, and supersede amending By-law No: 2017-6704 conditional on the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada approving the operating agreement and the extension of a head lease between the Town and Department of Fisheries and Oceans or the completion of the divestiture process.

10.4.1 – Establish Bobby Orr Hall of Fame (BOHF) Scholarship Reserve Fund. By-law 2018 – 6859. Being a By-law to provide for the establishment of a reserve fund to be known as the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame Scholarship Reserve Fund.

 

 

Council Agenda Preview – July 3, 2018

29 Friday Jun 2018

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Here are the key agenda items for the upcoming meeting of Parry Sound Council. I have nothing to add in the way of comments or analysis.

Closed Meeting

c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land for municipal or local board purposes. (Agreement Regarding Property Purchase), (Waterfront Property)

Correspondence

4.1 – Rebecca Pollock, Chair, Parry Sound Area Active Transportation. A thank you letter for the Town’s work developing, signing and formally recognizing “Wink’s Link”.

4.2 – Chris McDonald, Erin Cardy, Co-Chairs, Sound Splash Pad Steering Committee. Requesting that the Manager of Parks and Recreation be provided the go ahead from Council to begin the application process for the 2018 Trillium Capital Grant.

4.3 – Mary Jane Zissoff, Trilogy of Art. Transfer of the stained glass artwork, “Canadian Pacific Railway Bridge” from the Town office to the Trestle Brewing Company on Great North Road.

4.4 – Christy Cafovski, Executive Director, Parry Sound Area Chamber of Commerce. A letter of appreciation to the Town for donating funds to the Chamber of Commerce.

Deputations

5.1 – Brenda Muller of Whispering River Orchestra. Information regarding the Whispering River Orchestra and the search for a new home for the Orchestra in Parry Sound.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.2.1 – Splashpad – Trillium Grant Application. Resolution. Resolution. That Council of the Town of Parry Sound supports the Sound Splash Pad Steering Committee’s request for submission of a Splash Pad Trillium grant application.
Direction for Direct Staff Follow-up): That staff be directed to coordinate development of a comprehensive operational plan to include design details, infrastructure and operating impacts as well as capital and operating costs in conjunction with the Sound Splash Pad Steering Committee and that the plan be prepared in time for Council’s deliberations during the development of the 2019 Budget.

9.2.2 – Re-purposing of 2018 Triathlon Budget. Resolution. Whereas the 2018 Bobby Orr Hall of Fame Triathlon, budgeted for and approved in 2018, will not be taking place this year due to road reconstruction on Prospect Street; Therefore, Be It Resolved That Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound reallocate the funds from the 2018 Bobby Orr Hall of Fame Triathlon to a new 2018 Waubuno Beach Canteen budget as identified in Schedule “A”, attached.

9.5.1 – Advancement of a Housing Summit. Spokesperson: Mayor Jamie McGarvey

By-laws

10.2.1 – Site Plan Agreement Exemption – Century 21 – 51 Bowes Street. Amendment to Site Plan Control By-law. Resolution. Whereas By-law 2017-6723 requires site plan approval for commercial additions in excess of 50 sq. metres; and Whereas Section 11 of this By-law permits Council to omit any development from aspects of the site plan control by-law; Now Therefore be it resolved that Council omits the requirements of By-law 2017-6723 for an addition to 51 Bowes Street, except that drainage largely occurs in the format as detailed on Schedule “A”; and Further That 50% of the application fee be returned to the applicant due to the simplicity of this request.

10.3.1 – Memorandum of Understanding: Hatchets Rowing Centre Yvonne Williams Park. By-law 2018 – 6844. Being a by-law to approve the memorandum of understanding for the use of Yvonne Williams Park as a rowing training centre, between the Town of Parry Sound and the Hatchets Rowing Centre.

10.4.1 – Investment Policy Update / Powerpoint Presentation. By-law 2018 – 6845. Being a By-law to approve the updated “Investment Policy” for the Corporation of Town of Parry Sound and repeal By-law 2017-6768.

 

Council Agenda Preview – June 5, 2018

04 Monday Jun 2018

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There are a number of items on this week’s Parry Sound Council Meeting Agenda. The full agenda with attachments can be accessed at the Town’s website. Here are a few items that caught my attention followed by a list of the agenda items from this week’s meeting agenda.

Closed Session c)– the Town continues to acquire properties for reasons unknown.

9.1.1– Pumper Truck Purchase for about $550K all in. I guess we need what we need.

9.2.2– Splash Pad. It looks as though any splash pad that is built will be located at Waubuno Beach. This seems to be the right place for it. There was some earlier discussion that the future of any splash pad would be co-located with an aquatic recreation centre. The pad, if constructed, would be located close to the beach in the corner between the parking lot and the road leading to the boat launch.

9.2.3– Lakeland Holdings Share Allocation Adjustment. The Town’s shareholding in Lakeland increases from 13.5% to 15.57% with the new generating plant coming online. And from what I understand the new plant was built on time and on budget.

9.3.1– 2019 Budget Schedule. Things will be delayed a month or so with a new council to be elected in October. The full schedule is available in the meeting agenda package.

On a separate note, the new metal roof on the Stockey Centre looks pretty sharp.

Closed Meeting Agenda Items

  1. c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land for municipal or local board purposes; (Property Purchase)
  2. e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board. (Property Matter)
  3. j) educating or training council members and no member shall discuss or deal with any matter in a way that materially advances the business of the Council. (Potential National Event)

Deputations

5.1– Edith Paulus. Backyard flooding since the blasting for the building of the new School on Gibson Street, 2016

5.2– Daryl McMurray, PS Downtown Business Association. Newly adopted Strategic Plan for the Downtown.

5.3– Chris McDonald, Erin Cardy, Sound Splash Pad co-chairs. Update on their progress, current situation, and future goals with regard to the development of a Splash Pad facility at Waubuno Beach in Parry Sound.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1– Recommended Supplier for 2019 Fire Department Pumper Rescue. Resolution. That the Council for the Town of Parry Sound award the purchase of the 2019 Fire Department Pumper Rescue to Dependable Emergency Vehicles in the amount of $522,888.00 +HST inclusive of the trade in value of $27,000 for the current 1998 GMC Rescue and the 2000 Metalfab Pumper; and Further that Council authorize discretionary additional funding of $30,000 for possible additions to the vehicle which may be prudent upon factors identified in the Pre-Build meeting with Dependable Emergency Vehicles.

9.1.2– EMS Paramedic Response Unit. Resolution. That upon the recommendation of the EMS Advisory Committee through the approved EMS budget that the Council of the Town of Parry Sound approve the bid from Bayview in the amount of $36,400.00 +taxes for the supply of a 2018 Pickup Truck.

9.2.1– Charles W. Stockey Centre & Bobby Orr Hall of Fame Exterior Building Sign. Resolution. That Council accepts the only proposal received for the Exterior Building Sign Request for Proposals from Sign City Inc., for the Charles W. Stockey Centre & Bobby Orr Hall of Fame in the amount of $3250 + HST.

9.2.2– Splash Pad – Response to request for location. Resolution. That Council designate space at Waubuno Beach for future development of a Splash Pad as identified on Attachment #1.

9.2.3– Lakeland Holdings Share Allocation Adjustment. Resolution. That the Mayor and CAO be authorized to sign the Lakeland Holdings Ltd. Subscription of Common Shares resolution, attached as Schedule “A”.

9.3.1– 2019 Budget Team Schedule. Resolution. That Council hereby approves the 2019 Budgeting Schedule as set out in the attached Schedule “A”.

9.3.2– Purchasing of Budgeting Software Questica. Resolution. That Council authorizes to purchase the budgeting software Questica at approximately $37,000 of one-time cost and $3,000 of annual license and maintenance fee; That Council approves withdrawals from the Tax Rate Stabilization Reserve for the unbudgeted $27,000 to implement the software; and That conditions of the Procurement Policy By-law are waived.

9.4.1– Stone Pillar Gatepost Rebuild – Hillcrest Cemetery. Resolution. That Council award the repair and restoration of two stone pillars at the main entrance of Hillcrest Cemetery to Paul Langford Masonry in the amount of $17,500.00 (Seventeen thousand, five hundred dollars) taxes extra, this being the lowest of two (2) request for quotations received.

9.5.1– Fitness Trail Maintenance. Discussion.

By-laws

10.1.1– Fire Department Establishing and Regulating By-law. By-law 2018 – 6835. A By-law to Establish and Regulate a Fire Department and to repeal Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound By-laws 89-3357 and 93-3617.

10.1.2– Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) – Macklaim Drive and Dennis Drive Municipal Services Installation. By-law 2018 – 6830. Being a bylaw to authorize the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between property owners along Macklaim Drive and Dennis Drive and the Town of Parry Sound.

10.2.1– G Cash Management Systems Agreement. By-law 2018 – 6836. Being a By-law to enter into an agreement with G Cash Management Systems for the continued placement of an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) at the Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts.

Parry Sound Council Compensation for 2017

19 Thursday Apr 2018

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The Town sent out an email this afternoon with the missing Attachment #1 from this week’s council meeting agenda. Here is a link to the full attachment. The key tables are presented below.

Having covered the activities of Council for more than two terms I have no issue with the remuneration our councillors receive. It’s lots of hours and lots of complaints. If you disagree, this is your chance to put forward your name for Council. I expect there will be a couple of openings. It’s a much tougher job than anyone really expects. It can be very rewarding in terms of contributing to the community, but it’s a grind. The compensation is just a way of saying thank you for the service.

Council Agenda Preview – February 6, 2016

03 Saturday Feb 2018

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As things start to heat up at Council I’m getting a little bit worried as explained below.

4.2 – This concerns the sewer flushing issues that has been the topic of previous letters but no public discussion, announcement or apparently any resolution.

9.2.2 – Why is money being put into a splashpad reserve fund without any public discussion? While I think a splashpad has merit, I don’t think it is at the point of having funds allocated to it. Council should be willing to open a reserve fund and put in a dollar if they want to indicate their support in the absence of a proper budget discussion and agreement. Putting the suggested $40,000 into the reserve without requesting other proposals for park and recreation type installations or programs is shortsighted and perhaps suggesting some sort of favouritism. I’m still a bit miffed about the decision to install the ‘musical garden’ on the Rotary Algonquin Regiment Fitness Trail at a price of $35,000 without any public discussion. I have played with the instruments, and it’s more than okay, but I am yet to see anyone else use it. Could these funds have been put to better use? We’ll never know. Staff and Council seem to treat the Parkland Reserve Fund as a ‘rainy day’ or ‘mad money’ fund. How about the Park inventory and plan we were promised a couple of years ago before going forward allocating parkland funds? (Yes, I do remember these things.) Reading the Staff recommendation, I note that this item is not a core service, it is not a goal, and it only indirectly relates to Council’s Strategic Priority. The enemy of the best is not the bad, it is the good.

I like, and in principle support, the idea of the splashpad. Let’s review and approve it appropriately. If a nod of support for the proposal is required let’s open the reserve and put in a $1,000, not $40,000.

9.5.1 – This one I think is just plain writing sloppiness. I certainly hope so. “That upon the direction of Mr. Bobby Orr, Council provide financial support”. So, Mr. Orr now directs how Town of Parry Sound Council spends our money? No, I’m sure that Mr. Orr merely supported, or recommended support for, Mr. Ideson’s participation at the Paralympics. His recommendation is as good as a direction given his substantial contributions to the Town and area, but I think he would be embarrassed by this language. Words really do matter, ask any lawyer.

Things seem to be getting a little bit loosey-goosey. I hope this is not a symptom of pre-retirement malaise. Eyes open Councillors. Staff may find it easier to recommend yes than no, especially if they don’t need to deal with the consequences of either.

Closed Agenda Items

  1. b) personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees. (AMO Board relations)
  2. c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land for municipal or local board purposes. (Big Sound Marina)
  3. d) labour relations or employee negotiations. (Union Grievances, Negotiation Mandate)
  4. f) the receiving of advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose. (Union Grievances, Negotiation Mandate)

Correspondence


4.2 Richard and Marilyn Mooder, residents. Re: Feel their concerns have not been resolved.

4.4 Form letters from one group and citizens supporting a question on the ballot for municipal election to appoint an elected official to the citizen’s Ad Hoc Wellness and Pool Recreational Committee.
Gardens of Parry Sound – Russell Becker, 3 illegible signatures, Norma Romanelli, Gloria Young, June Carlton, Glenna Hoddy, Nancy Lock, E. Robinson, Dorothy Simpell, D. Stratton, Lois Moloney, Margaret Dunnigan, Lou McLeod, ? Marshall, Deana ? Vivian Moore, Dr. Victoria Smith, Jennifer (no last name), Chris George, Lise Henderson (resident), Valerie and Colin Cramp. Total of 24 letters

4.5 Chris McDonald, resident
Re: Splash Pad Reserve and Splash Pad Development Plans

Deputations

5.1 Tricia Bain, Facilitation & Planning Coordinator, Community Living Parry Sound Re: Community Ramp Project

5.2 Peter Istvan, Member, Citizens Ad-Hoc Wellness and Pool Recreational Committee. Re: Appointment of Council Member to become a member of this Committee

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 – Issuance of a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a 2019 Fire Truck Purchase instead of a Tender. Resolution. That the Council for the Town of Parry Sound waive the Purchasing Policy and direct staff to proceed with a Request for Proposal for the purchase of a Fire Truck to be delivered in 2019.

9.2.1 – Request to put a Question on the Municipal Ballot Re: Pool/Complex member Appointment. Resolution. Whereas Council received a letter of request from a citizens’ Ad Hoc Wellness and Pool/Complex Committee encouraging all seven West Parry Sound Municipalities to pass a by-law by March 1st, 2018 to include a wellness/pool related question on the ballot for the 2018 municipal election as follows:

I support my municipality in appointing an elected representative to a Recreation Complex Advisory Committee to investigate and determine the feasibility of a recreation wellness and pool complex in the Parry Sound area (Yes or No);

Therefore, Be It Resolved that Council for the Town of Parry Sound put a question on the ballot for the upcoming Municipal Election asking eligible voters to appoint an elected representative to a citizens’ Ad-Hoc Wellness and Pool Recreation Committee.

Resolution. Be It Resolved That Council for the Town of Parry Sound officially appoints Mayor Jamie McGarvey as a member of a citizens Ad Hoc Wellness and Pool Recreation Committee to investigate and determine the feasibility of a recreation wellness and pool complex in the Parry Sound Area.

9.2.2 – Splashpad Reserve Fund. Resolution. That a Splashpad Reserve Fund be established; and That $40,000 be transferred from the Municipal Property / Parkland Reserve Fund to the Splashpad Reserve Fund. Direction. That further contributions to the Splashpad Reserve Fund be considered as part of the 2019 Budget process and be dependent on the extent of community fundraising support at that time.

9.5.1 – Bobby Orr Hall of Fame Reserve Fund – Donation. Resolution. That upon the direction of Mr. Bobby Orr, Council provide financial support in the amount of $2,000 to Mark Ideson and his quest for Gold at the Paralympic Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea in March to be funded from the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame Reserve Fund.

9.5.2 – Open Grant Program. Resolution. That Council approve the 2018 Open Grant Program allocations per attached Schedule “A”.

9.5.3 – Bill 139 – Update. Resolution. That the February 6, 2018, Bill 139 Report and Recommendation, attached as Schedule “A”, be accepted by Council for information purposes.

By-laws


10.1.1 – Appointment Bylaw – Allison Kreuger – Municipal Law Enforcement Officer. By-law 2018 – 6796.
Being a bylaw to appoint Allison Kreuger as a Municipal Law Enforcement Officer.

10.3.1 – Temporary Borrowing Authorization. By-law 2018 – 6797. 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.

10.3.2 – Ontario Regulation 284/09. That Council hereby adopts the compliance report for expenses excluded from the 2018 budget outlined in the staff report “Ontario Regulation 284/09”, attached as Schedule “A”, as a requirement of Ontario Regulation 284/09 passed under the Municipal Act, 2001, as amended.

10.3.3 – 2018 Budget. By-law 2018 – 6798. Being a By-law to Adopt the Operating and Capital Budget Estimated for the Year 2018.

10.3.4 – Tax Policies – Capping and New to Class/New Construction. By-law 2018 – 6799. Being a bylaw to specify our Tax Policies, including the claw back percentage, the capping threshold parameters, the minimum tax level for new to class / new construction and to exclude certain properties from the capping program for the year 2018.

10.3.5 – Tax ratios for 2018. By-law 2018 – 6800.Being a by-law to set Tax Ratios for Municipal purposes for the year 2018.

 

 

 

 

Enhanced Snow Removal Services – Cost Estimates

16 Saturday Dec 2017

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At this past week’s budget meeting there were a few questions of Staff. One of the questions raised concerned snow removal services this year. It probably related to the snowfall we received last Sunday where the streets were pretty ‘dirty’, at least when I ventured out at about 4:00 PM. This was pretty much in the middle of a snowfall that dumped about 15 cm of snow, following a larger amount the day before. I wasn’t too surprised. Even Bowes Street was only partially plowed and there was more snow falling.

The Director of Public Works response can be heard on the Budget Meeting video available through the Town’s website on YouTube. In summary, his response was that performance met and exceeded provincial guidelines and that Staff were tapped out at that point in terms of hours worked dealing with the snowfall over the previous few days. There are regulations in terms of the hours that personnel can work, and that limit had been reached.

The discussion then turned to the possibility of hiring temporary workers to manage these snow events. It turns out that adding contract workers is not that simple in terms of existing labour contracts and the requirement to have qualified individuals. It seemed there was an interest on the part of at least one member of Council to look at increasing the level of service for snow management. Let’s take a look at what that might cost.

Before we get to the numbers, let’s remember that you can have any two of Price, Quality and Schedule. An attractive price on a quality item might require you to wait for it’s delivery because if it’s a bargain it’s probably in short supply. Or you can have a good price and quick delivery, but suffer in terms of quality. In the case of Parry Sound snow removal we are getting good quality snow removal at an acceptable price. But we don’t get it as quickly as some would like. Alternatively, we might be able to get quicker snow removal if we were willing to sacrifice quality, possibly operator, equipment, public and property safety, at the current price. If we want to get current quality levels and quicker snow removal, we will need to pay more. So how much more? Here‘s a back of the napkin calculation:

Additional Expenses:

3 Additional staff @ $100,000* – $300,000 per year
1 Additional 20-Ton Truck @$200,000 – $45,000** per year
1 2-Ton Truck with Blade @$60,000 – $15,000 per year**
1 Additional Sidewalk Plow @$170,000 – $35,000** per year
Additional Salt and sand – $15,000 per year

Total ~ $400,000 per year

This total of $400,000 per year additional cost when compared with the current snow budget of about $1 million per year seems in the right ball park.

There would be some other benefits from this increased investment in Public Works. Because the additional staff would be hired for a full year it is likely that Public Works could take on additional projects in the non-snow months, or even provide summer support for to the Parks and Recreation department, providing an overall better level of service to Town of Parry Sound businesses and residents. It might also mean that there would be less need for summer students, a savings of perhaps $30,000.

Assuming some savings in work contracted out to non-Town employees and fewer summer students, it’s possible that the burden of cost might drop to an additional $350,000 per year. On a property tax basis this would translate into a 3.5% increase in taxes. Residents paying $3,000 per year in property taxes would see an increase of perhaps $100 per year. Depending on individual assessments, some would pay more, and others less.

Before I started this short analysis I thought it would be more expensive than that. Adding more staff and getting better snow management services, plus better services all year round, might just be a bargain. If you agree, you might want to contact a member of Council and share your thoughts on where additional services are needed.

I’ll have comments on the 2018 Budget next week.

Cost Estimate Comments:

* – salary, benefits, training, vacation, etc.
** – assumed lifetime of 6-years, including interest, maintenance, fuel

In theory, the existing equipment could be used 24/7 if there was additional staff to operate the machines, and there was support for the necessary maintenance. The equipment would have a reduced lifetime when compared with the current budget. Wear and tear is more related to distance and hours, not whether a plow is pushing 10 cm or 20 cm of snow. It probably makes sense to have more equipment to provide more timely service than have one set of personnel waiting for their shift to start if more people on the streets would improve service and better meet the Public’s expectations. A broken piece of equipment upsets any well planned schedule.

Parry Sound Budget Meeting Tonight – 2017-12-12

12 Tuesday Dec 2017

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It starts at 6:00. While the discussion portion will be broadcast, the Town has suggested that the presentation portion will not be available because of technical issues. So, if you plan to watch the session live or later, be sure to download a copy of the budget document to follow along. The Town has a link to the budget at Combined Agenda.

Why bother with following the Town of Parry Sound Annual budget? The short answer is that it lets you know what the Town has planned for the next few years. Nothing gets done without a budget, and this is where the Town lays it all out, for as long as five years in terms of capital investments. For example, there is a tentative capital line entry in 2023 for an Aquatic Centre. There are a thousand stories in the Parry Sound budget and that is only one of them.

Speaking of budgets, did you read the article in the Ottawa Citizen concerning the Blind River debt, about $50 million, related to solar installations? It has a little bit of a parallel in Parry Sound, but with a better outcome. Almost 7 years ago the Town was approached about investing in a solar program on Town property. The suggestion was that the Town could make money by producing power at a lower price than it could sell it back to the Province. The Town was given an option to cover all costs, or co-invest. I attended the council meeting where the presentation was made by a consultant, and read the supporting documents. It seemed like BS to me. Lots of risk and limited payout. The meeting was held in the top of the Children’s Aid building. As the consultant was leaving, I stepped outside and asked him some more questions about the basis of the propsal, probably a little agressively as I smelled BS. I was told to leave him alone by the accompanying Town of Parry Sound Operations staff person. In the end I sent a letter to Town Staff with my thoughts. In their wisdom, Council declined not to go forward with the solar investment. It might have ended up not so different that the Blind River situation.

The Town is once again looking at investing in solar energy. This time by only supplying the land with Lakeland Power making the financial and management investment. There is still is some risk to the Town as a shareholder in Lakeland Power, hopefully it’s minimal and shared with the other investors.

Parry Sound 2018 Budget – Slight Revision

09 Saturday Dec 2017

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The Town has issued a slightly revised budget. Apparently a few of last year’s discussion items were included in the first draft and have been removed in this latest version. You can find the updated budget through this link at the Town’s website.

I was going to ask if you had a chance to provide your input to the 2018 Budget deliberations by clicking on the Budget Simulator link. But it seems the link is down as of this morning (2017-12-09). Perhaps it will go up again. I would think we should have access to the simulator at least through the end of the year. Final budget decisions will only be made in January.

Draft 2018 Parry Sound Budget Available

07 Thursday Dec 2017

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There will be a first public discussion of the Town of Parry Sound 2018 Budget next week. The meeting starts at 6:00 PM in the Town’s council chambers. If things go as usual there will be a short period at the start of the session for deputations from the Public. If you are late you will probably miss that window of opportunity and you will not have an opportunity to speak during the meeting.

I understand the meeting will be streamed live. So unless you have something to say, you may wish to catch it online – the live or recorded versions. Speak to the Town for information on how to access the feed on YouTube. It’s not easy to find the appropriate link. I’d like to suggest the Town put these meeting links directly on the homepage.

The draft budget document is now available at the Town’s website through this link. You may want to review it prior to the meeting to better understand what is being discussed. Staff and Council will have reviewed the document so things will move quickly.

Why not help Staff and Council by heading over to their interactive budget simulator and letting them know what you think. There is a question about a Splash Pad. At this point I’m in support of it. We need to start thinking about the younger folks in town. But, head over to the simulator and let them know what you think about the Splash Pad and a number of other budget related items.

Council Agenda Preview – November 7, 2017

04 Saturday Nov 2017

Posted by in Parry Sound, Town Council

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Some short comments on the issues before Council this week:

4.1 – Concerns regarding the connection of services on Rosetta to incidents of wastewater overflow in their home.
I would be similarly concerned if this happened at my home. Apply enough pressure and every vent system will fail. A contractor seems to have screwed up and they need to accept responsibility.

4.2, 5.1 – Concerns about issues of safety on William Street while public is using the bike lanes.
I don’t live on William Street but it has been my experience that commercial trucks rarely respect a 40 kph speed limit. Time is money folks. I also believe in the adage, “You don’t s**t where you eat”. Adams would be advised to keep a closer tab on their drivers and their customers, or consider moving their materials operations to their McDougall facility where there is much less pedestrian and bicycle traffic.

9.3.1 – Solar field partnership RFP waiver and solar agreement.
It’s a bit of a ‘hot wire’ approach to ‘jump start’ the project but seems reasonable. This landfill site will be put to use and the Town is not on the hook for expenses, and may save a few bucks on energy costs. I am comforted by the involvement of Lakeland Holdings. Their track record to date has been pretty good.

9.3.3 – Wink’s Link Trail update. Resolution. That Council support staff recommendation to seasonally maintain Winks Link, and to allow the Snowmobile clubs to use and maintain the Link in the winter months;
I hope that Council will require the snowmobile clubs to assume responsibility for any damage and unreasonable wear and tear of the trail. I recall a situation one winter when a lamp post was knocked over on the Rotary Algonquin Regiment Fitness Trail bridge over the Sequin River that ended up the responsibility of the Town. The boards on the bridge were also replaced a couple of years ago because of damage by the snow machines. I think we should share, but let’s make sure our ‘guests’ assume appropriate responsibility.

9.6.1 – Parry Sound Official Coat of Arms.
Sure, why not?

Key Agenda Items

Closed Session

(b) personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees. (CAO Recruitment), (Personnel Matter), (Former Employee)

(c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board; (Request to Transfer Lease)

Correspondence

4.1 – Richard and Marilyn Mooder, 16 Rosetta Street. Concerns regarding the connection of services on Rosetta to incidents of wastewater overflow in their home.

4.2 – Stacy Andelin, William Street. Concerns about issues of safety on William Street while public is using the bike lanes.

4.3 – Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) Opposes Proposed Changes to the Public Health System. Re: Concerns that changes to the Public Health System will completely change and dilute over time the mandate of the local public health system by integrating it with the Health care system. No analysis provided by the Expert Panel or the Ministry on the implications of this proposed integration from either a patient, program/service, or cost benefit analysis perspective was done.

4.7 – Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM) Re: FONOM disappointed with Decision to Cancel Energy East Project

Deputations

5.1 – Stacy Andelin, William Street. Concerns about the safety of people using the bike lanes on Williams Street.

Consent Agenda

8.1 – Amendment to Budget Schedule. Resolution. That Council hereby approves the revised 2018 budget preparation schedule as set out in Schedule “A” attached; and That Resolution 2017-144 is hereby rescinded.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 – 2018 Council Meeting Dates. Resolution. That pursuant to By-law 2015-6573, Section 3, paragraph 4, Council approves Schedule “A” as attached, which provides the schedule of dates for the 2018 Regular meetings of Council.

9.3.1 – Solar field partnership RFP waiver and solar agreement. Direction.
1. That Council waive the request for proposal (RFP) that was initiated by the October 17th, 2017 Council meeting; and
2. That Council direct staff to develop an agreement with Lakeland Power and AMP Energy for the creation of a solar field on the old landfill site; and 3. That Council directs staff to consider the long-term potential use of other large, municipally owned parcels of land, for best future use.

9.3.2 – Hybrid Electric Truck Loan Opportunity. Resolution. Whereas municipalities purchase and maintain fleet vehicles in order to provide necessary services to their communities; and Whereas emerging electric vehicle and hybrid technologies have the potential to significantly improve the environmental impact of municipal fleets by reducing their GHG emissions; and Whereas municipal fleet managers make significant and costly decisions on the fleet vehicles they purchase and these vehicles may be part of municipal fleets for several years; and
Whereas more data and information is necessary to encourage municipal adoption of new green technologies and to help make decisions about the most appropriate applications; and Whereas AMO is proposing to apply to the Municipal GHG Challenge Fund to procure electric trucks which will be loaned to participants in the pilot and members to test and measure usage; Therefore, Be It Resolved That the Council of the Town of Parry Sound will participate in and support the AMO Electric Truck Pilot Project alongside other interested municipal governments, including by partnering with AMO in the application for grant funding from the Municipal GHG Challenge Fund.

9.3.3 – Wink’s Link Trail update. Resolution. That Council support staff recommendation to seasonally maintain Winks Link, and to allow the Snowmobile clubs to use and maintain the Link in the winter months; and Further to update Town of Parry Sound Bylaw #98-4016 to include Winks Link, and include the appropriate signage identifying the usage.

9.4.2 – Façade Improvement Program Recommendations. Resolution. That upon the recommendation of the Façade Improvement Review Committee, Council approves:
a) 11 James Street (SJB Construction Inc.) in the amount of $4,112.48;
b) 39 James Street (Ritchie Holdings – Parry Sound – Ltd.) in the amount of $9,022.50; and,
c) 19 James Street (Dyer) – in the amount of $8,465.69.
And further that Agreement Letters be drafted and executed by the successful applicants. And that upon the recommendation of the Façade Improvement Review Committee, Council deny the request for funding from:
d) 138 William Street (Fellowship Baptist Church); and
e) 43 Church Street (Moir).

9.6.1 – Parry Sound Official Coat of Arms. Resolution. That a Coat of Arms Ad Hoc Committee be struck to review the development of a registered Coat of Arms and Motto for the Town of Parry Sound to be submitted to the Heraldic Authority through the Governor General’s office; and That Mayor McGarvey, Councillor ___________, Ann Hurdman and ___________ be appointed to the Committee.

By-laws

10.2.1 – Approval of application for debenture. By-law 2017 – 6776. Being a by-law to authorize certain new capital works of The Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound (the “Municipality”); to authorize the submission of an application to Ontario Infrastructure and Lands Corporation (“OILC”) for financing such capital works; to authorize temporary borrowing from OILC to meet expenditures in connection with such works; and to authorize long term borrowing for such works through the issue of debentures to OILC.

As always the full agenda with attachments is available at the Town’s website. The meeting will be available live, and archived, on YouTube. Contact the Town of Parry Sound for information if you need help finding it. A search for “Town of Parry Sound council meeting youtube” should provide the appropriate link. Just be careful regarding the date or will end up with an archived meeting. Sometimes the live feed doesn’t appear until a minute or two after the usual 7:00 start time.