Council Minutes (Abridged) – April 20, 2021

24 Saturday Apr 2021

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

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budget, By-Law, Council Minutes, Environment, Parks, parry sound, Pool, PS Power and Sail Squadron, Rezoning, School, Stockey Centre, Taxes, TOPS Financial Analysis, Town Council, Town Dock/Big Sound Marina

There were a large number of items brought before Council as letters, deputations, resolutions and by-laws. It’s worth scanning through the abridged minutes below to understand what was asked and what was decided. None of it was controversial in my opinion.

5.2 – David Sweetnam, Georgian Bay Forever; Rupert Kindersley, Georgian Bay Assn. Results of Water Levels Web Symposium, October, 2020.
The deputation summary is worth reviewing below if you want to get a better idea of where the experts think water levels are headed. Spoiler – it’s up, up and away.

Council Minutes (Abridged)

Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest
1.4.1 – Councillor Horne Declared Pecuniary Interest on item 9.5.1 being the resolution proclaiming May as Community Living Month in Parry Sound, as Community Living Parry Sound is his employer. Councillor Horne left the meeting for the duration of the item, did not participate in discussion, nor vote on the matter.

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiry regarding the potential for installation of a security camera at the skateboard park to deal with vandalism, Director of Public Works Mike Kearns reported that while there is currently no such plan for that location, he would investigate further on potential for installation of security cameras and/or lights as a means of addressing the problem.
Mayor McGarvey obtained Council’s approval to direct Mr. Kearns to get costing for this proposal.

3.2.2 – Mr. Kearns responded to Councillor Keith’s inquiry confirming that the Recreation Department puts together an annual maintenance plan and that with the early spring, they expect to be ahead of schedule. Mr. Kearns also noted that while the Champaign St and Waubuno Beach boat launches are open the Salt Dock ramp sustained damage and it will take longer to determine what work needs to be done and how to do it, as the damaged area is in the water.

3.2.3 – Mr. Kearns also responded to Councillor Keith that with respect to staffing, the vacancy in Public Works will be filled shortly, and summer student positions are still in the budget projections although given recent renewed COVID restrictions, hiring has not yet proceeded. CAO Clayton Harris added that summer student hiring at the Stockey Centre is reduced due to lockdown and reduced hours.

3.2.4 – In response to Councillor Borneman’s inquiry, Mayor McGarvey reported that more information is flowing from the Board of Health which he passes on to WPS Area heads of Council, and that there is good attendance at the bi-weekly municipal meetings. Unfortunately, the Board of Health has still declined to report statistics broken down between the east and west sides of the District.

3.2.5 – In response to Councillor Backman’s inquiry regarding assurance that any increases in infrastructure construction costs as a result of supply chain interruptions caused by COVID are reviewed by staff and included in the budget, CAO Clayton Harris reported that generally projects are tendered or go out through an RFP process to get the lowest responsible bid for a job. If the lowest qualified bidder is higher than the budget, staff can consider either scoping back on the work envisioned, or if not possible, come back to Council to request approval for additional funding.

Correspondence
4.1 – Resolutions of Support to prioritize Vaccine Allocation for areas in Phase I.
Lori West, Clerk/Planner, Municipality of McDougall Judith Meyntz, Deputy Clerk, Municipality of Whitestone Jenn Montreuil, Deputy City Clerk, City of North Bay Beth Morton, Clerk-Administrator, Township of Perry Mackenzie Taylor, Deputy Clerk, Township of Carling Andrea Spinney, Deputy Clerk, Township of Seguin Caitlin Haggart, Clerk-Administrator, Township of Strong
Filed

4.2 – Vic Fedeli, MPP.
Response to Vaccine Prioritization Request received from City of North Bay.
Filed

4.3 – Andrea Spinney, Deputy Clerk, Township of Seguin.
Support for appointment of Jamie McGarvey to the Board of Health.
Filed

4.4 – Joanne Demick, Executive Director, Community Living Parry Sound.
Request for Proclamation of May as Community Living Month .
Under flag policy, administrative approval given to the flag flying request; proclamation covered by item 9.5.1.

4.5 – Julie Chiaramonte, Kerri Mutrie, Patricia Hume, Andrea McIntyre, Pat Mastrocola, Barbara Morgan, George & Alice Reed, Susan Beal, Carol Rice, Michael Walton, Susan Ferguson, Gloria Koslowski, Steven Smith.
Individual letters of the same text supporting Council’s position to deny construction of a vehicle bridge over the Fitness Trail.
Filed

4.6 – Simon Fecteau, Director of Education, Conseil scolaire public du Nord-Est de l’Ontario.
Request for support letter for capital funding submission to Ministry of Education to acquire or build the French school Quatre-Vents.
Covered by item 9.5.2

Deputations
5.1 – Greg Mason, General Manager, Georgian Bay Biosphere.
Community Nominated Priority Places Project.
Greg Mason addressed Council from a prepared presentation, as circulated with the Agenda. Mr. Mason noted that the Community Nominated Priority Places Project is a program that has been running for two years and is set to run for another two, in cooperation with a number of municipalities and organizations along the Georgian Bay coast. The program is funded over 4 years through $2 million federally with matching $2 million raised through other organizations.
Mr. Mason noted the main goals of the program are: to accelerate knowledge generation and collective decision-making for Species at Risk; and to work together for priority ecosystems for biodiversity protection, habitat connectivity, and greater resilience.
Co-applicants in addition to GBB, are Magnetawan First Nation, Shawanaga First Nation and Georgian Bay Land Trust, with upwards of 30 additional partners to the project. The project is overseen by a Steering and Lands Committee composed of the co-applicants, and incorporates traditional ecological knowledge, and truth and reconciliation training. At a core the project seeks to provide adequate information on the locations where there is the greatest threat to species at risk, to prioritize resources to specific regions, as opposed to broad-brush support.
Mr. Mason gave an example of a road ecology project in 2020 whereby turtle nests were removed prior to road work, and the eggs incubated over the summer with about 1000 turtles later released. This was both a successful conservation effort, and cost effective for the municipality, as it did not have to put up permanent fencing estimated at $30,000 to $40,000.
Other means of gathering data to support effective decision making include the app that can be downloaded for people to submit their species observations; and the seven MOTUS Telemetry Arrays installed on the coast to monitor bird, bat and other avian species.
Mr. Mason concluded with notice of opportunities for municipal engagement including road management and ecology approaches; planning policy and process review; education outreach; and cultural and cross-government learning.

5.2 – David Sweetnam, Georgian Bay Forever; Rupert Kindersley, Georgian Bay Assn.
Results of Water Levels Web Symposium, October, 2020.
David Sweetnam and Rupert Kindersley, Executive Directors of Georgian Bay Forever and Georgian Bay Association respectively, addressed Council from a prepared presentation as circulated with the Agenda regarding results of Great Lakes Water Levels Web Symposium held in October 2020.
Key take-aways from the 2020 Symposium include the following:
1. Current management of the Great Lakes system is not deficient, including Plan 2012 which had seen Lake Superior as relatively higher than Lakes Michigan-Huron and had generally attempted to increase flows, though barely and with variability. Since April 2018 the balancing factor has been trying to decrease flows from Lake Superior to Lakes Michigan-Huron. The historic range of water level fluctuations on Lake Michigan- Huron (M-H) is so much higher than the range on Lake Superior (LS) since LS is 39.1% of the surface area of its watershed, whereas M-H is only 31.8% of the surface area of its watershed. M-H watershed is 197% the size of LS watershed. Additionally, M-H receives all upstream inputs from Lake Superior.
2. The solution to extreme water levels does not lie with improved management of the current system.
3. International Joint Commission has no power itself to implement any action.
4. Release of a key research study by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) which identifies that the components method and residuals method used to calculate net basin supply are not “in conflict” – they are measurements used for different purposes and are accurate given current tools available. The Large Lake Statistical Water Balance Model (LLSWBM) reconciles discrepancies between components and residuals methods.
5. Action on specific improvements to the quality and content of water levels data and modelling.
6. Revisit the formation of a Great Lakes Water Levels Advisory body.
With respect to what municipal governments should consider and do, Messrs. Sweetnam and Kindersley advised that:
– it is expected that extreme high water levels could be as much 3 feet higher than the last extreme high by the year 2100, gradually increasing over the next 80 years; and conversely extreme low water levels are only expected to be lower by around 4 inches.
– Wave action, run-up, pluvial and fluvial flooding must be considered.
– Therefore, given the uncertainty for planning purposes, consider raising the high-water mark accordingly to 178.4 meters (585 feet) above sea level, or plan to increase it in increments.
– When making investment decisions on docks, coastal roads/infrastructure, boat launches etc. plan for this expanded range of water levels.
– Primary issue will be ensuring environmental protection at residences – setbacks only effective if high water level is correct.
– The highest impact will be on: septic systems, docks, boat houses and low elevation shoreline structures.

5.3 – Lee-Ann Turner
Request for Town’s Permanent Endorsement to fly Pride Flag annually.
Lee-Ann Turner thanked Council for its approval to fly the Pride Flag for the month of June last year and requested that this year and every year thereafter Parry Sound purchase and fly the Pride during the month of June without requirement for an annual request.
Ms. Turner gave a brief outline of the Pride movement, noted that federally, provincially, and in many municipalities in Ontario, June is dedicated to Pride month as a matter of corporate cultural policy. Ms. Turner suggested that Parry Sound’s commitment to annually flying the flag would send a positive message about the community and so concluded with the request that Town Council commit to June every year as Pride month, purchase the Pride flag and fly it during that month.
Mayor McGarvey obtained Council agreement to have something brought to the next Council meeting to address this.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – Update – Key Performance Objectives in Support of the Strategic Plan. Resolution
That Council approve the progress report on the Town’s Key Performance Objectives (KPOs) as set out in Schedule A.
Carried

9.1.2 – Sail Parry Sound Funding Request for the Rotary Sunset Trail.
Resolution
WHEREAS the Town has received a request from Sail Parry Sound for $20,000 for the remediation of the erosion on the Rotary Sunset Trail;
WHEREAS the Rotary Sunset Trail is on the lands leased from the Town by Sail Parry Sound;
WHEREAS the Town of Parry Sound leases the property to Sail Parry Sound for a nominal amount and Sail Parry Sound does not pay property taxes on the leased land;
WHEREAS the lease agreement states that Sail Parry Sound is responsible for the maintenance and repairs of the property;
WHEREAS there is a concern that a reconstruction of the trail, rather than remediation is required, involving proper engineering design and construction to complete a safe and lasting trail at a cost greater than the $20,000 estimate provided;
WHEREAS the scope of work has not been clearly defined;
Whereas it is unclear if there are other funding partners, such as Sail Parry Sound, the Rotary Club, etc.; and
WHEREAS the Town has an interest in supporting some reconstruction of the trail, subject to a detailed proposal being provided.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Council requests that Sail Parry Sound submit a proposal setting out the work to be done, identify funding from all sources and indicate their intention at the end of the current lease; and further
THAT Council approves the reallocation of up to $20,000 of unassigned funds from the Federal Gas Tax Reserve Fund to the Rotary Sunset Trail rehabilitation; and further
THAT the actual amount of funds to be committed to the project will be subject to the receipt of the above information to the satisfaction of Council.
Carried

9.1.3 – Additional funding for external resources to support and move the recreation and culture centre project forward.
Resolution

Whereas the Optimist Club donated $40,000 to the Town of Parry Sound in 1994 for use towards a recreation centre;
Whereas the Town is the lead applicant in a joint ICIP application on behalf of 7 municipalities and 2 First Nation communities for a recreation and culture centre;

Whereas the timing to address questions/concerns raised during the process and to confirm the support of all partners is critical;
Whereas there is a need to engage external resources in the process;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Council authorizes staff to utilize the funds donated by the Optimist Club for the purposes of retaining external resources in support of the recreation and culture project.
Carried
CAO Clayton Harris confirmed in response to an inquiry that the current Optimist Club Executive can be contacted to advise them that the money from the 1994 donation is being allocated and spent for its intended purpose.

9.2.1 – 2020 Financial Year End Audit Planning Report.
BDO Engagement Partner and Michelle Yin addressed Council from a prepared presentation that was circulated with the Council agenda. Ms. Bodkin provided an executive summary identifying issues of
materiality (i.e., based on revenues of $690,000 for the year ended December 31, 2020);
timeline (most work to be done in May 2021 with a report back to Council);
fees ($31,500);
and audit risks in the areas of management override of controls,
revenue recognition (i.e., fraud risk),
purchases cut-off (i.e. items after year end and assurance that payables are accrued),
contaminated sites,
and contributed infrastructure assets.
Ms. Bodkin asked if Council was aware of any fraud or had concerns they wanted brought up to the auditor. If any, Ms. Bodkin said that information might change the audit approach, i.e., extra testing in that area. No member of Council brought forward any concern.
Resolution
That Council receive the Auditor’s 2020 Financial Year End Audit Planning Report as presented by Giselle Bodkin, BDO Engagement Partner.
Carried

9.3.1 – 2020 Annual Report – Closure Monitoring Program MacFarlane St. Landfill Site.
Resolution
That Council receive the 2020 Annual Report – Closure Monitoring Program MacFarlane St. Landfill Site for information purposes.
Carried

9.4.1 – Consent Application – B12/2021 (TPS) (Halvorson)
Resolution
That Consent Application No. B12/2021 (TPS) (Halvorson), be supported.
Carried

9.4.2 – Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/20/02 – Oastler Park Dive (John Jackson Planner Inc. on Behalf of Waltmar Inc.).
Resolution
That a decision on Z/20/02 – Oastler Park Dive (John Jackson Planner Inc. on Behalf of Waltmar Inc.) be deferred as it is premature.
Carried

9.5.1 – Declaration of May, 2021 as Community Living Month in Parry Sound.
Resolution
WHEREAS Community Living Parry Sound has worked to bring people and their communities together for over 58 years; and
WHEREAS Community Living Parry Sound supports people as they develop their capacity to live, learn, work and participate in all aspects of living in the community; and
WHEREAS Community Living Parry Sound helps the community develop its capacity to welcome and support people who have not always had the same opportunities as the rest of us, to participate in their community in meaningful, productive ways; and
WHEREAS the Council of the Town of Parry Sound wishes to urge its citizens to celebrate the inclusion in our community of people who have a developmental disability.
NOW, Therefore Be It Resolved that Mayor and Council declare the month of May Community Living Month in the Town of Parry Sound.
Carried

By-laws
10.1.1 – Lease Agreement with The Festival of the Sound for use of the Stockey Centre.
By-law 2021 – 7122
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of a five-year renewal agreement with the Festival of the Sound for lease of the Charles W. Stockey Centre.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.2.1 – 2021 Budget.
By-law 2021 – 7119
Being a By-law to Adopt the Operating and Capital Budget Estimated for the Year 2021.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.4.1 – License of Occupation Parry Sound Cruise Line.
By-law 2021 – 7120
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of a License of Occupation with Parry Sound Cruise Line for the use of the dock at LT 6-21 PL 154; PARRY SOUND.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.4.2 – Chantler Barging Lease.
By-law 2021 – 7121
Being a By-law to authorize the execution a Lease with Chantler Barging Ltd for the use of the property identified as Lot 2 Plan 155 being Part on Plan 42R9587, Lot 3 Plan 166, Lot 4 Plan 166 all in the Town of Parry Sound.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

Council Agenda Preview – April 20, 2021

18 Sunday Apr 2021

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

≈ 2 Comments

Tags

Agenda, BOCC, budget, By-Law, COVID-19, parry sound, Planning, Pool, Rezoning, School, Strategic Plan, Taxes, Town Council, Town Dock/Big Sound Marina, Trails

Another packed session. I will only comment on item 9.5.2.

9.5.2 – Letter of Support for Conseil scolaire public du Nord-Est de l’Ontario.
Resolution
THAT Council authorizes the Mayor to sign a letter of support for the Conseil scolaire public du Nord-Est de l’Ontario with respect to its capital funding submission to the Ministry of Education to acquire or build a school for Quatre-Vents in Parry Sound.
While I am happy to see this educational resource made available I regret that perhaps another piece of prime Town of Parry Sound real estate will not be available for tax generating private development. We seem to be the town of social services, churches and schools. Why not look to McDougall for the new school’s location? It’s just up the road and they will be losing their school. This is another example of why we need amalgamation. If not, then give the Town a little more room to grow and generate more income through development. The hesitancy, I was wondering when it would bubble up, to ‘Da Pool’ is the reality we are facing. Our neighbours want the resources but don’t want to pay for it.

Enough opining on local issues. Work deadlines are looming and my fingers need the rest.

Council Agenda (Abridged)

Closed Session
No Items

4.2 – Vic Fedeli, MPP.
Response to Vaccine Prioritization Request.

4.3 – Andrea Spinney, Deputy Clerk, Township of Seguin.
Support for appointment of Jamie McGarvey to the Board of Health.

4.4 – Joanne Demick, Executive Director, Community Living Parry Sound.
Request for Proclamation of May as Community Living Month.

4.6 – Simon Fecteau, Director of Education, Conseil scolaire public du Nord-Est de l’Ontario.
Request for support letter for capital funding submission to Ministry of Education.

Deputations
5.1 – Greg Mason, General Manager, Georgian Bay Biosphere.
Community Nominated Priority Places Project; presentation attached.

5.2 – David Sweetnam, Georgian Bay Forever; Rupert Kindersley, Georgian Bay Assn.
Results of Water Levels Web Symposium, October, 2020; presentation attached.

5.3 – Lee-Ann Turner.
Request for Town’s Permanent Endorsement to fly Pride Flag annually during June; request and letters of support attached.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – Update – Key Performance Objectives in Support of the Strategic Plan.
Resolution
That Council approve the progress report on the Town’s Key Performance Objectives (KPOs) as set out in Schedule A.

9.1.2 – Sail Parry Sound Funding Request for the Rotary Sunset Trail.
Resolution
WHEREAS the Town has received a request from Sail Parry Sound for $20,000 for the remediation of the erosion on the Rotary Sunset Trail;
WHEREAS the Rotary Sunset Trail is on the lands leased from the Town by Sail Parry Sound;
WHEREAS the Town of Parry Sound leases the property to Sail Parry Sound for a nominal amount and Sail Parry Sound does not pay property taxes on the leased land;
WHEREAS the lease agreement states that Sail Parry Sound is responsible for the maintenance and repairs of the property;
WHEREAS there is a concern that a reconstruction of the trail, rather than remediation is required, involving proper engineering design and construction to complete a safe and lasting trail at a cost greater than the $20,000 estimate provided;
WHEREAS the scope of work has not been clearly defined; Whereas it is unclear if there are other funding partners, such as Sail Parry Sound, the Rotary Club, etc.; and
WHEREAS the Town has an interest in supporting some reconstruction of the trail, subject to a detailed proposal being provided.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Council requests that Sail Parry Sound submit a proposal setting out the work to be done, identify funding from all sources and indicate their intention at the end of the current lease; and further
THAT Council approves the reallocation of up to $20,000 of unassigned funds from the Federal Gas Tax Reserve Fund to the Rotary Sunset Trail rehabilitation; and further
THAT the actual amount of funds to be committed to the project will be subject to the receipt of the above information to the satisfaction of Council.

9.1.3 – Additional funding for external resources to support and move the recreation and culture centre project forward.
Resolution
Whereas the Optimist Club donated $40,000 to the Town of Parry Sound in 1994 for use towards a recreation centre;
Whereas the Town is the lead applicant in a joint ICIP application on behalf of 7 municipalities and 2 First Nation communities for a recreation and culture centre;
Whereas the timing to address questions/concerns raised during the process and to confirm the support of all partners is critical;
Whereas there is a need to engage external resources in the process;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Council authorizes staff to utilize the funds donated by the Optimist Club for the purposes of retaining external resources in support of the recreation and culture project.

9.2.1 – 2020 Financial Year End Audit Planning Report.
Resolution
That Council receive the Auditor’s 2020 Financial Year End Audit Planning Report as presented by Giselle Bodkin, BDO Engagement Partner.

9.4.1 – Consent Application – B12/2021 (TPS) (Halvorson).
Resolution
That Consent Application No. B12/2021 (TPS) (Halvorson), be supported.

9.5.1 – Declaration of May, 2021 as Community Living Month in Parry Sound.
Resolution
WHEREAS Community Living Parry Sound has worked to bring people and their communities together for over 58 years; and
WHEREAS Community Living Parry Sound supports people as they develop their capacity to live, learn, work and participate in all aspects of living in the community; and
WHEREAS Community Living Parry Sound helps the community develop its capacity to welcome and support people who have not always had the same opportunities as the rest of us, to participate in their community in meaningful, productive ways; and
WHEREAS the Council of the Town of Parry Sound wishes to urge its citizens to celebrate the inclusion in our community of people who have a developmental disability.
NOW, Therefore Be It Resolved that Mayor and Council declare the month of May Community Living Month in the Town of Parry Sound.

10.2.1 – 2021 Budget.
By-law 2021 – 7119
Being a By-law to Adopt the Operating and Capital Budget Estimated for the Year 2021.

10.4.1 – License of Occupation Parry Sound Cruise Line.
By-law 2021 – 7120
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of a License of Occupation with Parry Sound Cruise Line for the use of the dock at LT 6-21 PL 154; PARRY SOUND.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – April 6, 2021

10 Saturday Apr 2021

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

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Tags

budget, By-Law, Council Minutes, library, Museum, Parks, parry sound, Planning, Rezoning, Rotary Trail, Taxes, Tower Hill, Town Council, Trails

Wow – this was a packed session and ended at 10:00. I feel that there were some considerate decisions made with respect to the 2021 budget. The rezoning of property on George Street / Tower Hill brought out the expected comments and concerns. You may want to read the comments to get a sense of sentiments. My feeling as someone who interacts regularly with the folks is at the Museum and the Tower Hill Heritage Garden is that the development will not negatively impact either of them. We have a problem in Town, and it is housing, particularly affordable (not necessarily subsidized) housing. The tradespeople and professionals we desperately need would be happy to move into the area and enjoy the many amenities if there was suitable housing. I am not sure the Town can afford to let land stand idle because the neighbours won’t like the ‘traffic’.

I am happy to see that the issue of erosion on the waterfront, both the Sunset Trail and the bridge to Silbow Point at Waubuno Beach is getting the necessary attention, if not yet the budget. It is better in my opinion to have a plan before budgeting and spending money.

The is a bit of a change in format with the abridged minutes presented below. I will start to apply Bold and Underline to the topics listed. This may make it easier to wade through the minutes and pay attention to items that are of particular interest. As always, refer to the official minutes package at the Town of Parry Sound’s website if you want the unabridged minutes.

Meeting Minutes (Abridged)

Closed Session
b) personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees, (Taxi License Appeal Hearing);

Public Meeting
2.1 – Z/21-02 – George Street (John Jackson Planner Inc. on behalf of Ravi Prasher).
After the Mayor adjourned the regular meeting and declared the public meeting open, Clerk Rebecca Johnson advised that notice had been given by prepaid first-class mail to the required prescribed agencies and property owners within 120 metres, posted on the property and placed on the Town’s website.
Manager of Building and Planning Services Taylor Elgie advised that the purpose of the first proposed Zoning By-law amendment is to change the zoning of the property from Residential Medium Density (R2) to Residential High Density (R3). The effect of the proposed Zoning By-Law amendment is to allow for creation of a 36-unit apartment building.
John Jackson, agent for applicant Ravi Prasher, responded to the Mayor’s invitation to speak in favour of the proposed Zoning By-law amendment.
Mr. Jackson reported that the application was filed with a number of supporting components, pre-consultation was undertaken with staff, and the following reports were prepared: a planning justification report, environmental report, traffic impact report, noise impact study and a preliminary engineering report. Mr. Jackson said he believed the proposal is in conformity with policies of the Official Plan, and that creation of housing is supported in the Provincial Policy Statement, and in the growth plan for Northern Ontario. Mr. Jackson said it was his belief that many concerns expressed by neighbours would be addressed through a more detailed site plan process, and that screening could alleviate privacy concerns. Mr. Jackson acknowledged that sight lines from George to Forest Street are not good, but that this problem is being addressed in the engineering report. Mr. Jackson concluded with the suggestion that the proposal will help respond to what we know is a housing crisis both in Town and throughout the province and country.

The following members of the public responded to the Mayor’s invitation to speak in opposition to the proposed Zoning By-law amendment:
Sarah Priaulx of 53 Forest Street addressed Council with the following questions and concerns: development is in her backyard bordering her fence line, effects of blasting beside foundation, location of sewer and water lines and who pays for this, potential increase in taxes for this development, increased density impacts on safety, liability as a result of location beside trestle, treacherous turning from George Street onto Forest Street, traffic study done in February when it should be done in July when population is high. Ms. Priaulx said she had a number of questions which she would address with staff.
France Beaulieu of Forest Street addressed Council with the following questions and concerns: environmental feasibility in a nice wooded area, opposed to the building going up, concerns with traffic study and questioning when it was undertaken, questioning if the Town is contributing money towards water and sewer; concerned about population in backyard; will fence be put up, will there be too much light on at night in the parking lot; will the developer receive grant money from municipal sources to build; is there money available if neighbours want to consult with a lawyer; what happens if building foundations are damaged due to blasting; will a fence be provided to help with privacy; Ms. Beaulieu also expressed concerns that during winter, Forest Street will become more busy as a means of getting in and out of the development since the George Street hill becomes slippery, and this increased traffic will cause an accident. She also expressed concerns with potential increased population density and overcrowding in this area.
Mr. Elgie advised that he had received the following items of correspondence expressing concerns or in opposition to the proposed zoning by-law amendment:
Ken Webb, George Street – ok with density but height is too much overall degrading the intrinsic value of Tower Hill and Museum; 36-unit building does not celebrate the 100-year anniversary of Tower Hill well; safety concerns with the entrance on to Forrest Street.
David Juffs – concern with drainage and trespass problems of the roadway area; wants roadway and offsite storm water considered as part of any approval; concerns with the entrance between Forest and George Streets and suggests a 3-way stop may be advisable; opposes rezoning to R3.
Ray & Roxanne Priaulx – question the number of stories, and whether it is subsidized housing; concern with intersection of George and Forest Streets and Parry Sound Road; question the impact on wildlife, stormwater and traffic, and resulting wear and tear on other roads such as Parry Sound Road.
Chris & Angela Clark – concern with the intersection; safety will become a greater issue with this proposal; concern with the quality of George Street and lack of sidewalks; property is unsafe due to proximity to train tracks and soil quality due to previous oil tank storage; this will negatively impact the Museum and Tower Hill.
James Bisson & Brenda Regan – concern that location too close to back yard; lighting from parking lot; number of vehicles going in and out, impeding upon privacy; traffic and intersection concerns; Forest Street currently has no sidewalks and is quite rough; noise, mess, and disruption will affect privacy and blasting will affect wildlife.
Dan Connaghan – as he is looking after elderly family, concern that this proposal will bring risk of COVID-19 closer to his property through portable toilets and imported workers; traffic concerns at the intersection; question whether adequate water and sewer capacity, concerns about wildlife, noise, and visitors trespassing on his property.
Reg Goslett – concern with intersection and feels a 3-way stop is necessary; agrees with applicant report that George Street needs to be repaved, upgraded, and widened and wishes for this to be extended to the Museum.
Lee Smith – concern with traffic and intersection; soil should be tested due to previous presence of oil tanks; due to vegetation removal, storm water may be an issue; improvements to be at cost of developer not taxpayer.
Dean Timson & Margo Houston – concern about negative effect on peace and quiet for themselves and adjacent property owners; adding 100 people on half a hectare of property is poor planning; zoning should be down zoned for less development. Forest Street was poorly designed and repaved years ago; intersection with George Street is dangerous; adjacent rail line is dangerous; application is misleading as shows different information on different spots
Canadian Pacific – comments provided in an extensive technical document.
Sarah Priaulx – concern regarding easement, foundation, blasting, who pays for improvements on road, timing and year when traffic study undertaken. George St & Forest St intersection is dangerous; questions whether railway contacted; sights drainage as a problem; safety concerns with rail line as sparks have caused small brush fires; high density doesn’t fit criteria for this location; backfilling will flood neighbouring properties. OPP is there frequently as it is not a safe area with needles found and having more people will be troublesome.

After Mr. Elgie concluded his summary of comments received in opposition, the Mayor advised that Council, at its discretion may approve the proposed Zoning By-law amendment and if so, must either circulate notice of passing of the by-law or give notice in the local press. Objections to the passing of the by-law will be received by the Clerk within 20 days from the date such notice is given, which objections will be forwarded to the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal. If an appeal is submitted and the appellant has not provided Council with an oral or written submission before the passing of the by-law, the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal may choose to dismiss the appeal.

2.2 Z/21-01 – Louisa Street (John Jackson Planner Inc. on behalf of Kingshott and Hurd).
Clerk Rebecca Johnson advised that notice had been given by prepaid first-class mail to the required prescribed agencies and property owners within 120 metres, posted on the property and placed on the Town’s website.
Mr. Elgie advised that the second proposed Zoning By-law amendment would amend the S.P. 26.72 Zone to a Rural Residential zone and recognize a reduced lot frontage of 34 metres for two provisionally created lots along Louisa Street, and that a rezoning was a condition of consent for related application B/37A/37B/2020 (TPS).
John Jackson responded to the Mayor’s invitation to speak in favour of the proposed Zoning By-law amendment, noting that the application is straight forward and satisfies a technical issue.
No one spoke in opposition to the proposed Zoning By-law amendment. Mr. Elgie advised that he had received no correspondence with regards to this matter.

The Mayor advised that Council, at its discretion may approve the proposed Zoning By- law amendment and if so, must either circulate notice of passing of the by-law or give notice in the local press. Objections to the passing of the by-law will be received by the Clerk within 20 days from the date such notice is given, which objections will be forwarded to the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal. If an appeal is submitted and the appellant has not provided Council with an oral or written submission before the passing of the by-law, the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal may choose to dismiss the appeal.

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiry regarding street sweeping plans, Director of Public Works Mike Kearns reported that this year street sweeping was able to commence a little earlier than usual. Sidewalk sweepers are not collectors – they simply move material out off the sidewalk and where possible, out into the street for the street sweeper to collect and transport to the Public Works Yard.
3.2.2 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiry regarding movement of salt at the Salt Dock, Director of Development & Protective Services Dave Thompson reported that according to the agreement with the Salt Company, a certain area of the Salt Dock must be clear of salt for public use during the summer, and the Salt Company is therefore currently using heavy equipment to move salt on site to a smaller surface area of the Salt Dock.
3.2.3 – Cllr Borneman reported that he wished to pass on to the Mayor concerns from seniors about the trouble they have had booking vaccinations – waiting for hours on the phone and being sent to vaccination centres outside the area. Mayor McGarvey responded that he has heard the same thing and would raise this issue with the Board of Health in an attempt to improve the roll-out with more clinics locally and the booking process made easier.
3.2.4 – In response to Councillor McCann’s inquiry regarding fire fighter training and recruitment Chief Dave Thompson reported that the Parry Sound Fire Department, along with Carling, McDougall and McKellar were given a great opportunity to use the Friendship Centre for a two-day training exercise, which offered experience with a large building, forcible entry, and other technical exercises. Chief Thompson also reported that the Fire Department does need members in Town, but that COVID-19 regulations have delayed recruitment efforts for a women’s information session and a general information session until May, when face to face meetings might resume again.

Correspondence
4.1 – Steve Barnes, applicant for Hillcrest Ave. lot severance.
Two letters of request for Council reconsideration of its recommended denial of severance.
Copied to Manager of Building & Planning Services and filed.
4.2 – Chris MacQuarrie, Natural Resources Canada Canadian Forest Service.
Research Project proposed for Killbear Provincial Park.
Copied to Director of Public Works for consideration.
4.3 – Peter Bethlenfalvy, Minister of Finance.
Funding of $5,000 to Parry Sound under the Ontario Cannabis Legalization Implementation Fund.
Filed
4.4 – Susanne Borup-Powell, Parry Sound Resident.
Support for Council’s position to deny construction of a vehicle bridge over the Fitness Trail.
4.5 – Stephen Heder, Parry Sound Resident.
Support for Council’s position to deny construction of a vehicle bridge over the Fitness Trail.
4.6 – Nancy Fraser, Parry Sound Resident.
Concerns with the posting of a “No Trespassing” Sign at Rabbit Canyon path.
4.7 – Carmen Quesnel, Parry Sound Resident.
Concerns with the posting of a “No Trespassing” Sign at Rabbit Canyon path.
4.8 – Linda Chase, Pat Clarke, Don Brickett, Ray Brown, Rachel Brown, Pauline Brown, Renate Koslowski, John & Donna McGill, Conrad van der Valk, Janet Patterson, Jill Murphy, Thom Morrissey, David & Jody Brunatti, Shelby Seegmiller, Brandon Seegmiller, Cameron Dunkin, Julia Mader, Roberta Smart.
Individual letters of the same text supporting Council’s position to deny construction of a vehicle bridge over the Fitness Trail.
All above letters related to the Fitness Trail were filed.

Ratification of Matters from Closed Agenda
7.1 – Taxi Driver’s License.
Resolution
That Council of the Town of Parry Sound approves Applicant #001-2021’s appeal and grants a temporary Taxi Driver’s Licence; and
That Council hereby directs the Issuer of Licences to issue the Applicant a six (6) month Probationary Taxi Driver’s Licence with the following conditions:
a) That a Level 2 Criminal Record Check be provided at the end of the temporary period (6 months), and annually thereafter as a part of the regular renewal process, without any new convictions; and
b) That subsequent Driver’s Abstracts, checked every six (6) months while holding a valid Taxi Driver’s Licence, do not contain any new convictions; and
c) That the owner of Parry Sound Taxi sign a responsibility agreement; and
d) That if the Town becomes aware of any violation of the applicant’s probation conditions set herein the licence be revoked immediately.
Carried

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.2.1 – 2020 Statement of Remuneration Paid to Council and Appointed Board Members.
Resolution
That the 2020 Statement of Remuneration Paid to Council and Appointed Board Members, attached as Schedule “A”, be accepted.
Carried

9.2.2 – 2021 Operating Budget.
Following introductory statements by CAO Clayton Harris, Director of Finance Stephanie Phillips presented an overview of the 2021 draft operating budget covering such topics as impact to the taxpayer, historical tax rate increases, 2021 capital budget recap, draft operating budget highlights, COVID-19 fiscal challenges, COVID-19 funding applied, summary of net levy changes by division and items for Council consideration.

With respect to items for Council consideration as contained on page 43 of the 2021 budget binder, Council agreed to the following:
1. $6,150 increase contribution to Public Library.
2. $2,000 increase contribution to the Museum on Tower Hill, (with a motion moved by Councillor Keith, seconded by Councillor McCann and carried by Council to round up the draft increase of $1,674 to $2,000.).
3. $5,000 contribution to Tower Hill Children’s Garden.
4. Remove the draft $50,000 to replace the pedestrian bridge to the Point at Waubuno Beach. Council agreed per Director of Public Works Mike Kearn’s recommendation that before funds are committed to this work, engineering reports should be undertaken to determine what is needed to stabilize the path and bridge against erosion.
5. Remove the draft $20,000 for remediation of erosion on the Rotary Sunset Trail. Council directed CAO Clayton Harris to bring forward a resolution to set aside in reserve $20,000 using the Gas Tax Fund (which is now under a new name) for area redevelopment when a detailed proposal for the area is provided, and funding partnerships and the long-term intentions of Sail Parry Sound with respect to its lease (which expires in approximately four years) are known.
6. $8,200 contribution to Georgian Bay Forever for Plastic Diversion 2.0 Seabin and Education, with staff recommending at the time the budget by-law is considered, sources upon which to draw, such as from a relevant reserve.
7. No increase in funding provided to Park to Park Trail over the annual contribution of $6,000 already budgeted.
Resolution
That the 2021 Operating Budget as amended, be approved; and
That the Budget By-law be submitted to the April 20th, 2021 Council meeting for ratification.
Carried.

The following additional motions were considered by Council:
Direction for Staff Follow-up
That lighting be investigated, and costing done for the intersection of Pine Drive and Bowes Street.
Carried

Direction for Staff Follow-up
That staff be directed to refer the Park to Park (P2P) Trail issue to CiiNO as a regional body and consider the issue on a regional basis, to investigate whether other funding sources could be accessed, and/or a grant could be applied to hire an intern to respond to the administrative issues that P2P has put forth with respect to their funding ask.
Carried

By-laws
None beyond a confirming by-law for the meeting.

Council Agenda Preview – April 7, 2021

03 Saturday Apr 2021

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

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Agenda, budget, parry sound, Rezoning, Town Council, Trails

There are three topics of interest in this week’s Town of Parry Sound council agenda.

4.1 – Steve Barnes, applicant for Hillcrest Ave. lot severance.
Two letters of request for Council reconsideration of its recommended denial of severance.
I am at a bit of a loss to understand the argument here. The property owner is requesting to sever a piece of property that has a converted garage on it. It is very small and doesn’t meet the standards for property size and setbacks. They argue that they don’t intend to sell the severed property, but keep it as a rental property. But why the need to sever if it is a rental property. It is an expense to the owner with no obvious benefit, except to sell it. Property and housing in the town has become so ‘scarce’ that there is a business, and money to be made, by carving up properties into smaller and smaller sized lots. This potentially creates more housing but also creates issues with snow management, parking, ….
I think Council and Staff have made a decision of when too small, is too small.

4.4 to 4.8 – Letters Concerning Rabbit Canyon Trail and Property.
These letters concern the discussion(dispute?) between the Town and a Property Owner concerning the development on a lot that spans two branches of the Rotary Algonquin Regiment Fitness Trail. I have offered my analysis in an earlier post. My intent in that post was not to take a position on the issue but to encourage discussion and perhaps negotiation. We don’t need to create our own Middle East type situation where the sides don’t negotiate in good faith. A negotiation depends on reasonable expectations on both sides. The town owns the ‘hammer here. Without the proper permits the lot can’t be developed, so the Town needs to be sensitive. On the other hand, the Property Owner may need to realize that what they believe the lot is worth is unrealistic. Without an agreement there will be no development or settlement. I suspect that signs will be pulled down by people using the trails as quickly as they can be put up.
My suggestion to the letter writers would be to make a proposal on how to manage the situation. This not a ‘Just Say No’ situation. The rights of property owners need to be respected, but not indulged.

9.2.1 – 2020 Statement of Remuneration Paid to Council and Appointed Board Members.
Screen clip from agenda posted below.

9.2.2 – 2021 Operating Budget.
The draft budget is available through this link as a PDF, about 10MB.

Abridged Meeting Agenda

Closed Session
b) personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees, (Taxi License Appeal Hearing);

Public Meeting
Council will hold two public meetings to consider proposed Zoning By-law amendments under Section 34 of the Planning Act per the following:

2.1 Z/21-02 – George Street (John Jackson Planner Inc. on behalf of Ravi Prasher).
The purpose of the first proposed Zoning By-law amendment is to change the zoning of the property from Residential Medium Density (R2) to Residential High Density (R3). The proposal is to create a 36-unit apartment building.

2.2 – Z/21-01 – Louisa Street (John Jackson Planner Inc. on behalf of Kingshott and Hurd).
The purpose of the second proposed Zoning By-law amendment is to amend the S.P. 26.72 Zone to a Rural Residential zone and recognize a reduced lot frontage of 34 metres for two provisionally created lots along Louisa Street. A rezoning was a condition of consent for related application B/37A/37B/2020 (TPS)

Correspondence
4.1 – Steve Barnes, applicant for Hillcrest Ave. lot severance.
Two letters of request for Council reconsideration of its recommended denial of severance.

4.2 – Chris MacQuarrie, Natural Resources Canada Canadian Forest Service.
Research Project proposed for Killbear Provincial Park.

4.3 – Peter Bethlenfalvy, Minister of Finance.
Funding of $5,000 to Parry Sound under the Ontario Cannabis Legalization Implementation Fund.
4.4 – Susanne Borup-Powell, Parry Sound Resident.
Support for Council’s position to deny construction of a vehicle bridge over the

Fitness Trail.
4.5 – Stephen Heder, Parry Sound Resident.
Support for Council’s position to deny construction of a vehicle bridge over the Fitness Trail.

4.6 – Nancy Fraser, Parry Sound Resident.
Concerns with the posting of a “No Trespassing” Sign at Rabbit Canyon path.

4.7 – Carmen Quesnel, Parry Sound Resident.
Concerns with the posting of a “No Trespassing” Sign at Rabbit Canyon path.

4.8 – Linda Chase, Pat Clarke, Don Brickett, Ray Brown, Rachel Brown, Pauline Brown, Renate Koslowski, John & Donna McGill.
Individual letters of the same text supporting Council’s position to deny construction of a vehicle bridge over the Fitness Trail.

Deputations
None

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.2.1 – 2020 Statement of Remuneration Paid to Council and Appointed Board Members.
Resolution
That the 2020 Statement of Remuneration Paid to Council and Appointed Board Members, attached as Schedule “A”, be accepted.

9.2.2 – 2021 Operating Budget.
Resolution
That the 2021 Operating Budget as amended, be approved; and
That the Budget By-law be submitted to the April 20th, 2021 Council meeting for ratification.

By-laws
Only a confirming by-law for the proceedings.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – March 9, 2021

13 Saturday Mar 2021

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

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This is a summary of the 2021 Budget meeting focused on the capital portion of the budget. There are no details provided regarding the discussion or any changes made to the proposed capital budget. The council meeting video is available online for those interested.
A second item was added to the meeting concerning the execution of an agreement with the Minister of Long-Term Care for the funding of a Community Paramedicine Long Term Care program

Abridged Minutes

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.4.1 – Draft 2021 Capital Budget.
Per a prepared power point presentation circulated with the agenda, Director of Finance Stephanie Phillips provided an overview of the Draft Capital Budget, including comments on benchmarking, funding the capital budget, reserves/debentures, tangible capital asset grant funding, dedicated capital levy, and the specific items included in the 2021 draft capital budget.
Resolution
That the staff report, the 2021 Draft Capital Budget and presentation be received for information purposes: and
That Council approve the Draft Capital Budget and directs staff to include it in the preparation of a By-law to set the estimates following the 2021 Draft Operating Budget deliberations.
Carried

By-laws
10.3.1 Community Paramedicine Long Term Care (CPLTC) Funding Grant.
By-law 2021 – 7112
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of an agreement with the Minister of Long-Term Care for the funding of a Community Paramedicine Long Term Care program.
Passed, Signed and Sealed.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – March 2, 2021

13 Saturday Mar 2021

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budget, By-Law, Chamber of Commerce, Council Minutes, Fire Department, Health, Infrastructure, parry sound, Taxes, Town Council

The minutes only came out yesterday. There really isn’t much to note. I suggest you take a quick scan of the abridged minutes below.

Abridged Minutes

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – In response to Councillor McCann’s inquiry regarding Town response to contractors/residents who leave snow on sidewalks after plowing driveways, Director of Public Works Mike Kearns responded that it is the owner’s responsibility to keep the area clear. Many are aware and do keep it clear and assist with clearing areas around hydrants, etc. If the area is not clear and the Town has been made aware of it, the Townmakes the sidewalk passable, and discusses with the property owner so it doesn’t happen again. With respect to enforcement, Mr. Kearns suggested that the by-law dealing with obstructions would ultimately deal with this.

3.2.2 – Mr. Kearns confirmed in response to questions and comments from Councillors Keith and Backman that staff would utilize communication channels available to get information to the public in timely ways regarding the obligation to keep sidewalks clear from personal plowed snow.

3.2.3 – In response to Councillor Backman’s inquiry regarding a recent fire on Albert Street, Director of Development and Protective Services/Fire Chief Dave Thompson reported that there was a full structure residential fire on Albert Street last Friday, Feb. 26th at 10:20 AM. Because Fire Prevention Officer John Tuck, EMS attendant Olivia (Ostrom) Perry and nearby resident Steve Molyneaux were able to get to the scene so quickly, they were able to save the lives of the occupants. Chief Thompson confirmed that each of the three would be recognized with appreciation/commendation.

3.2.4 – In response to Councillor Backman’s inquiry regarding the potential of providing recycling/waste receptacles to deal with garbage by the boat launch at the Salt Dock, Mr. Kearns responded that although this is not part of normal winter activities, installation here can be considered. Mr. Kearns suggested an alternate message is to advocate that people pack out what they pack in. Councillor Keith requested that if receptacles are installed, that some analysis be undertaken of staff time required for maintenance, including snow clearing, to help determine appropriateness of installation there.

Correspondence
None

Deputations
5.1 – Anne Haines, Former Account Manager, Muskoka Parry Sound, MPAC.
2020 Municipal Partnership Report.
From a prepared slide presentation, Ms. Haines reported on the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation’s (MPAC’s) 2020 Municipal Partnerships, including how MPAC shifted priorities and transformed information sharing during COVID’s restrictions, MPAC’s role in the building permit process, ongoing information and training provided by MPAC, as well as confirming that property values used by MPAC continue to be based on the market at January 1, 2016 with is the current valuation date.

5.2 – Christy Cafovski, Executive Director, Gail Burrows, President, Parry Sound Area Chamber of Commerce.
Chamber of Commerce Year in Review; New Strategic Plan.
Ms. Cafovski shared a prepared video with messages from Gail Burrows and herself, reviewing activities from last year, and the Chamber’s current Strategic Plan focusing on membership, networking, how educational opportunities can help businesses, benefits of going virtual, marketing businesses in the area and generally focusing on providing value for membership.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – Budget Overview.
Ms. Phillips provided an overview of the budget from a prepared power point presentation, covering such topics as the managerial planning and review that goes on before Council’s deliberations, the fiscal policy framework, continuous improvement, benchmarking, external transfers, COVID-19 pandemic fiscal challenges, operating budget impacts, capital budget impacts, and the schedule of upcoming budget review meetings.

9.2.1 – Municipal Modernization Program
Intake 1 – Technology Review Final Report Municipal Modernization Program
Intake 2 – Introduction.
Resolution
THAT Council receive the attached Report on Municipal Modernization Program – Intake 1 – Technology Review Final Report; and
THAT Council authorize staff to submit an Expression of Interest for a GIS Maturity Assessment under the Municipal Modernization Program – Intake 2.
Carried

9.2.2 – Modernization Review – Allocation of Funding.
Resolution
Whereas the Town of Parry Sound received Municipal Modernization Funding from the Province of Ontario in 2019;
Whereas Council placed uncommitted Modernization Funding into a Modernization Reserve in March 2020;
Whereas the purpose of the Reserve is to fund projects that create efficiencies, lower and/or avoid future costs;
Whereas the effective use of technology represents a significant opportunity for creating efficiencies;
Whereas the Town initiated a Technology Review in 2020 under Intake 1, to identify opportunities for internal efficiencies using technology including infrastructure, business processes and systems;
Whereas the Review, completed under Intake 1 identified several important corporate projects;
Whereas the Town wishes to apply for Provincial funding under Intake 2;
Whereas one of the eligibility requirements for Intake 2 is that the municipality confirm that it has spent or allocated the Modernization Funding received in 2019;
Now Therefore be it Resolved That the uncommitted funds in the Modernization Reserve, $595,414.47 be allocated to initiatives identified in the Technology Review including a small contingency; and
Further That staff report back to Council for budget approvals should there be a need to reallocate funds as additional information becomes available, such as: changes in project scope; a need to change priorities; new priorities; etc.
Carried

9.3.1 – Regional Fire Training Centre in the Parry Sound Area.
Resolution
That the Council for the Town of Parry Sound support the submission of a formal request to the Office of the Fire Marshall to consider Parry Sound to be a Regional Training Centre
Carried

9.3.2 – Respond to request to stop-up-and close a portion of Macklaim Drive and Dennis Drive by Macazer Holding Corp.
Resolution
That Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound deny the request from Macazer Holding Corporation to stop-up-and-close a portion of Macklaim Drive and Dennis Drive road allowance.
Carried

9.5.1 – Letter of Support for NNDSB Grant Application for Bike Purchases.
Resolution
THAT Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound approves submission of the letter attached as Schedule A to the Near North District School Board in support of its application to the Ontario Active School Travel Fund to purchase a fleet of bikes for the purpose of training students in Grades 7 and 8 on safe cycling.
Carried

9.5.2 – (No Title Provided)
Resolution
Whereas community outreach and communication are critical to gaining community support for healthcare directives;
Whereas the Council for the Town of Parry Sound passed two (2) Resolutions on February 16, 2021: 1) Requesting greater community outreach and communication; and 2) Requesting the segregation of Covid related data between the East and West portions of the District of Parry Sound;
Whereas the Resolutions were endorsed by several West Parry Sound municipalities;
Whereas the Town of Parry Sound has not received a response or acknowledgement of either Resolution from the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit;
Whereas municipalities fund a significant portion of the District Health Unit’s budget;
Whereas a lack of communication represents a missed opportunity to advocate a common message with a common voice;
Whereas collaboration and partnerships can create a united voice on critical issues, such as the advocacy of additional vaccines for the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit Medical Officer of Health be requested to establish a bi-weekly information exchange meeting with the Mayors of the West Parry Sound District; and
THAT this Resolution be forwarded to the Chair & Board of the North Bay Parry Sound District Public Health Unit, municipalities of West Parry Sound, Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. David Williams, Minister of Health Honourable Christine Elliott, Premier Doug Ford, Norm Miller – MPP for Parry Sound-Muskoka and the Honourable Victor Fedeli – MPP Nipissing; and
That a press release be issued on behalf of the Town and those West Parry Sound municipalities in support of the Resolution.
Carried

By-laws
10.1.1 – Tax Policies – Capping and New to Class/New Construction.
By-Law 2021 – 7108
Being a bylaw to specify 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 2021.
Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.1.2 – Tax Ratios for 2021.
By-Law 2021 – 7109
Being a by-law to set Tax Ratios for Municipal purposes for the year 2021.
Passed, Signed and Sealed.

Council Agenda Preview – March 2, 2021

26 Friday Feb 2021

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Agenda, budget, By-Law, Capital Investment, Chamber of Commerce, Fire Department, Infrastructure, parry sound, Planning, Rezoning, Taxes, TOPS Financial Analysis, Town Council

There are a couple of items on the agenda that deserve more review and comment than I can do here:
9.1.1 – Budget Overview.
9.2.1 – Municipal Modernization Program – Intake 1 – Technology Review Final Report. Municipal Modernization Program – Intake 2 – Introduction.

I will see if I can get around to these two documents this weekend, which are in the council meeting agenda package and available at the Town’s website. If I do, I will prepare a separate post. Item 9.1.1 is the first look we are being given of the 2021 Town budget. I do like the idea that Capital and External expenses are being discussed separately from Operating and Community budget items. I imagine the meetings wil lbe broadcast live and then available for later review on the web.
No wait – the budget overview presentation is just a tease in terms of real numbers. But there is a schedule of meetings:
March 9, 2021 – Budget Review Meeting (Capital & External Levies) *Special Meeting
March 23, 2021 – Budget Review Meeting (Operating & Community Requests/Grants) *Special Meeting
April 6, 2021 (Council) – Budget Approval and By-law

Abridged Agenda

Correspondence
None

Deputations
5.1 – Anne Haines, Account Manager, Muskoka, Parry Sound, MPAC.
2020 Municipal Partnership Report.

5.2 – Christy Cafovski, Executive Director, Gail Burrows, President, Parry Sound Area Chamber of Commerce.
Chamber of Commerce Year in Review; New Strategic Plan.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – Budget Overview.
See attached Presentation.

9.2.1 – Municipal Modernization Program – Intake 1 – Technology Review Final Report.
Municipal Modernization Program – Intake 2 – Introduction.
Resolution
THAT Council receives the attached Report on Municipal Modernization Program – Intake 1 – Technology Review Final Report; and
THAT Council authorize staff to submit an Expression of Interest for a GIS Maturity Assessment under the Municipal Modernization Program – Intake 2.

9.2.2 Modernization Review – Allocation of Funding.
Resolution
Whereas the Town of Parry Sound received Municipal Modernization Funding from the Province of Ontario in 2019;
Whereas Council placed uncommitted Modernization Funding into a Modernization Reserve in March 2020;
Whereas the purpose of the Reserve is to fund projects that create efficiencies, lower and/or avoid future costs;
Whereas the effective use of technology represents a significant opportunity for creating efficiencies;
Whereas the Town initiated a Technology Review in 2020 under Intake 1, to identify opportunities for internal efficiencies using technology including infrastructure, business processes and systems;
Whereas the Review, completed under Intake 1 identified several important corporate projects;
Whereas the Town wishes to apply for Provincial funding under Intake 2;
Whereas one of the eligibility requirements for Intake 2 is that the municipality confirm that it has spent or allocated the Modernization Funding received in 2019;
Now Therefore be it Resolved That the uncommitted funds in the Modernization Reserve, $595,414.47 be allocated to initiatives identified in the Technology Review including a small contingency; and
Further That staff report back to Council for budget approvals should there be a need to reallocate funds as additional information becomes available, such as: changes in project scope; a need to change priorities; new priorities; etc.

By-laws
10.1.1 – Tax Policies – Capping and New to Class/New Construction.
By-Law 2021 – 7108
Being a bylaw to specify 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 2021.

10.1.2 – Tax Ratios for 2021.
By-Law 2021 – 7109
Being a by-law to set Tax Ratios for Municipal purposes for the year 2021.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – February 16, 2021

21 Sunday Feb 2021

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BOCC, budget, By-Law, Council Minutes, Infrastructure, parry sound, safety, Taxes, Tower Hill, Town Council, Town Dock/Big Sound Marina

Thankfully the COVID-19 lockdown will be slowly lifted in Parry Sound on Monday. It would be nice if part of the lifting of the recreational restrictions included opening the tower on Tower Hill. It’s been a year folks! The Tower was a major resource for folks trying to get in a little bit of cardiovascular exercise. Do it right and you have the perfect H.I.I.T (High Intensity Interval Training) ‘machine’.

3.2.2 is not good news for the Town. There was a possibility that the Town would receive some level of reimbursement for the services consumed by the numerous public housing units in the Town of Parry Sound. But, it was shot down by the Board of DSSAB that includes municipal representatives, who understood reimbursing the Town of Parry Sound would mean their DSSAB payments would increase. I have a sense that the area municipalities are getting a little bit ‘nasty’ when it comes to taking on any additional expenses, or even paying for what they had previously committed themselves to. They are quite happy for the Town of Parry Sound taxpayers to carry most of the ‘overheard’ expenses for social services that are provided to their residents. It’s a great deal if you can get away with it. Note to our neighbours – chipping in a little more now is much cheaper than giving the Province a good reason to force amalgamation. I have estimated the property tax implications; it works for me.

Letters 4.7. & 4.8 seem to have triggered a bit of conscience on the part of Council who have included consideration of a $20,000 expense in the 2021 Budget for repair of the Sunset Trail section of the Rotary Algonquin Regiment Fitness Trail. There is of course no guarantee that the amount will be approved. I will remind folks that this has been a problem for more than five years, the same period in which the Town has spent almost $200,000 to repair boat launches primarily for the benefit of visitors.

Council Minutes (Abridged)

Closed Session
c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board, (Proposed property exchange);
d) labour relations or employee negotiations (Director level salaries). Carried

Presentations:
Prior to the Agenda, Mayor McGarvey addressed Council and the public with concerns about the recent decision by the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit to continue the COVID-19 lock-down designation and Stay at Home order. Mayor McGarvey expressed concerns over the lock-down designation of such a large area, and the lack of advance communication to local leadership to help prepare them for implementation. Mayor McGarvey concluded with notice that two resolutions have been drafted for consideration at this meeting: requesting the Health Unit provide more pro-active communication regarding announcements; and that statistics on confirmed cases be provided for the West Parry Sound Area, distinct from the east side of the District. Mayor McGarvey then introduced Jim Hanna, Public Relations and Communications Officer of the West Parry Sound Health Centre.
Mr. Hanna read from a statement issued today by the Health Centre which expressed support for the Ontario Hospital Association’s calls for “discipline and ruthlessness” in the shared fight against COVID-19 and asked that individuals continue to practice COVID-19 transmission prevention measures.
Mr. Hanna commented that Health Centre leadership was taken by surprise by the continued lock-down announcement; that the local Health District was the only one lumped into the grey lockdown category along with the GTA after all others were lifted from lockdown to some other less restrictive category. Mr. Hanna noted that a patchwork approach won’t benefit the province and that if people don’t understand the reason for a health zone being categorized as it is, they don’t buy into it.
Upon conclusion of Mr. Hanna’s comments, Mayor McGarvey introduced two resolutions under items 9.5.2 and 9.5.3 of the minutes. Upon carriage of those two resolutions, Clerk Rebecca Johnson read from a press release provided just prior to the meeting from the Parry Sound Rotary Club advising that Rotary Club is providing disposable masks free of charge to businesses that would like them.

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – Councillor Borneman inquired as to the impact on Town staffing, operations and recreation programs if the current COVID-19 lock-down order is extended or shifted to any other designation but “green”. Director of Public Works Mike Kearns responded that a red zone designation, which might be the next transition out of lock-down, affects programming, as the Ontario Minor Hockey Association will permit training practices limited to 10 people on-ice but does not permit play. Mr. Kearns noted that ice typically comes out the end of March, and that proposals to extend the season would also impact other issues as staff then transition to outdoor maintenance activities. Mr. Kearns listed area municipalities which either did not install ice this season or have now removed it. Mr. Kearns also noted that the building is energy intensive with energy costs based on peak 24-hour demand.

3.2.2 – Councillor Borneman reported on his understanding of the past process of tax billing and payment for non-profit housing units which have subsequently been declared tax exempt. Non-profit housing passed on the bills to District Social Services Administration Board which secured funding from senior levels to pay the Town. Since declaration of the tax-exempt status, and DSSAB’s defeat of a resolution requesting that they continue to pay the taxes, Councillor Borneman suggested there should be an accounting of the funding secured from senior levels of government and the following motion was made:
Direction/Resolution(?)
That the Town send a letter to Chair of DSSAB to ask for an accounting of funding sources through senior levels of government designated for non-profit housing taxes with a reply provided as soon as possible due to spring budget preparations.
Carried

3.2.3 – In response to Councillor Backman’s inquiry regarding plowed snow preventing access to Big Sound Marine, Mr. Kearns responded that this is normal practice, and that it may be helpful to prevent people from accessing the area which is not maintained in winter.

Correspondence
4.1 – Lynne Atkinson, Executive Director, West Parry Sound Health Centre Foundation.
Appreciation for $50,000 donation from BOHF Reserve Fund towards x-ray system.
Filed

4.2 – Lynne Atkinson, Executive Director, West Parry Sound Health Centre Foundation.
Appreciation for $50,000 donation from BOHF Reserve Fund towards renewing dining room area of Lakeland Long Term Care.
Filed
4.3 – Mackenzie Taylor, Deputy Clerk, Township of Carling.
Approval of Parry Sound’s request for removal from Planning Board contingent upon Carling receiving same approval.
Filed

4.4 – Nicole Dimond, Project Coordinator, Georgian Bay Forever.
Follow-up to questions asked following February 2, 2021 deputation to Council.
Filed
4.5 – Craig Jeffery, Clerk, Township of Seguin.
Notice of Public Meeting for proposed Zoning By-law Amendment to permit cannabis grow operations in industrial zones.
Filed

4.6 – Jane Wang, Communication Officer, Census Communications.
Promotion of May 2021 Census.
See item 9.5.1

4.7 – Jo Bossart.
Concerns with erosion on the Rotary & The Algonquin Regiment Fitness Trail.

4.8 – Larry Woolner, Vice President, Sail Parry Sound.
Current projects and funding request.

Items 4.7 and 4.8 were circulated to Council, and Directors of Public Works, and Finance for follow-up. Upon confirming no objection from Council, Mayor McGarvey directed that the $20,000 request in the Sail Parry Sound letter for Sunset Trail remediation be referred to Council’s 2021 budget considerations.

Deputations
5.1 – Christy Cafovski, Executive Director, Chamber of Commerce.
Chamber of Commerce Year in Review, new Strategic Plan.
Withdrawn

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.4.1 – Non-Union Compensation Grid.
Resolution
That Council authorize a pre-budget expenditure related to the procurement of professional services of a compensation consulting firm for non-union job evaluation.
Carried

9.4.2 – Update – Key Performance Objectives in Support of the Strategic Plan.
Resolution
That Council approve the progress report on the Town’s Key Performance Objectives (KPOs) as set out in Schedule A.
Carried
In response to a Councillor request, CAO Clayton Harris confirmed that they would publish the KPOs on the Town website.

9.5.1 – Promotion of May 2021 Census.
Resolution
Whereas accurate and complete census data support programs and services that benefit our community;
Now Therefore the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound supports the 2021 Census and encourages all residents to complete their census questionnaire online. Link
Carried

9.5.2 – Request that Health Unit be Proactive in Communication on COVID-19. Resolution
Whereas there is a willingness in the community to support directives from the Province and the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit; and
Whereas the North Bay Parry Sound Health District was a Green Zone prior to the Stay- at-Home Order; and
Whereas the more restrictive the directives, the greater the financial burden on businesses and individuals in the community; and
Whereas the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit has taken a more restrictive approach than many District Health Units in Ontario by extending the Stay-at-Home Order until at least February 22, 2021; and
Whereas the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit has also taken a very restrictive approach by ordering all public ice rinks, tobogganing hills, skating trails, and Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs’ (OFSC) trails and trails utilizing Crown Land in the health unit district to be closed; and
Whereas community understanding and support is critical to achieving the objective of the directives – slowing the spread of the virus; and
Whereas the conditions in the North Bay Parry Sound Health District do not appear to be dissimilar to the conditions in many other Ontario health districts; and
Whereas variants of the virus have been confirmed in other Ontario Health Districts and the Stay-at-Home Order has been lifted; and
Whereas a greater community awareness generates greater community support; and
Whereas the Parry Sound Town Council has no authority with respect to Provincial and Health Unit directives;
NOW THEREFORE the Council of the Town of Parry Sound requests that the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit take a more pro-active approach to community outreach and communication through a range of communication techniques; and
That increased communication include greater dialogue with municipal and healthcare leaders across the health district in advance of announcements; and
That this resolution be forwarded to the Mayors and healthcare leaders within the health district, Norm Miller, MPP for Parry Sound-Muskoka and the Honourable Victor Fedeli, MPP Nipissing.
Carried

9.5.3 – Request that Health Unit Publish COVID-19 Statistics for West Parry Sound.
Resolution
Whereas in order to fight the COVID-19 virus in a community it is important to understand the status of confirmed cases in that community; and
Whereas the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit represents a very large geographic area; and
Whereas the catchment area of West Parry Sound is only a portion of the area served by North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit; and
Whereas the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit publishes and provides opioid overdose statistics to the municipal level which demonstrates the Health Unit’s ability to provide health related information without breaking confidentiality issues; and
Whereas the flow of individuals and commerce tends to follow a north/south pattern, rather than an east/west pattern;
Now therefore the Council of the Town of Parry Sound requests that the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit publish statistics that provide the number of confirmed cases and other appropriate information for West Parry Sound; and
Further That this resolution be sent to municipalities in the West Parry Sound Area; the West Parry Sound Health Centre; the Honourable Minister Christine Elliott, Minister of Health; and MPP Norm Miller.
Carried

By-laws
10.1.1 – Approval of Funding Agreement – Provincial Gas Tax for Public Transportation.
By-law 2021 – 7106
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of a Letter of Agreement with the Ontario Minister of Transportation regarding funding under the Dedicated Gas Tax Funds for Public Transportation Program.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.3.1 – Appoint Plans Examiner/Building Inspector.
By-law 2021 – 7105
Being a by-law to appoint Nicholas Deroy as a Plans Examiner/Building Inspector.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – February 2, 2021

05 Friday Feb 2021

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

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

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

Town of Parry Sound Council Meeting (Abridged)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Council Agenda Preview – February 2, 2021

30 Saturday Jan 2021

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Abridged Agenda

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Parry Sounds

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Tag Archives: budget

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