Tag Archives: Infrastructure

Council Agenda Preview – October 17, 2017

15 Sunday Oct 2017

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There are some interesting items on this week’s council agenda. The most interesting in my opinion, 9.1.3 – Succession planning and organizational restructuring, was the subject of a separate post and won’t be discussed here. These are this week’s highlights:

Closed Session – Item c.
Probably a disposition of the CP Station. The likeliest buyer would be the Festival of the Sound. I hope there will be a true arms length approach to this transaction.

Items 5.3, 9.3.1 – Solar Power Project – A Clean Energy Powered Future.
Oh boy, let’s build and be responsible for more infrastructure. Investing in roads and water I understand. It’s necessary and there is no practical alternative to having the Town build and manage it. Solar power is the best alternative for the desert – lots of sun, high in the sky, and not much in the way of rain or cloudy days. In our part of the world the best carbon free energy investment is hydroelectric and offshore wind. My first sense is that this is not something we should be getting involved with. Why are we competing with for profit businesses. Solar technology is still first generation, like copper phone lines were twenty years ago. If it’s about being environmentally caring, can’t we take credit for the carbon free generation at the Cascade Street power plant? If we can find a party that wants to lease the McFarlane Landfill site, and sell us solar power at market rates – let’s consider it. Read the full R&R for a sense of what’s involved.

8.3 – AMO (Association of Municipalities of Ontario) Opposes Proposed Changes to Public Health System.
If the experts tell us something we don’t want to hear, well then let’s make our own uninformed decisions. That’s the current approach south of the border.

9.4.1 – Stockey Centre Roof & Siding Project – Grant Application.
It seems that the million dollar repairs to the Stockey Centre is on the agenda and will be approved. Makes sense, all things considered. Do you think that people were anticipating and budgeting for this type of expense when the Stockey Centre was first approved? That’s why you don’t make investments in things that are not ‘mission critical’ unless you have money to waste.

Selected Agenda Items

Closed Session

b) personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees. (Appointment of Integrity Commissioner) (CAO Recruitment)

c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land for municipal or local board purposes. (CP Station)

Deputations

5.1 – Becky Pollock and Sue Woodhouse, on behalf of the Parry Sound Active Transportation Committee. Re: Request for signage support and contribution on the trail link extending from Mall Drive along Parry Sound Drive to the Nobel Trail. Also request support to name the trail link “Wink’s Link” in recognition of Wendall Fisher’s contribution to the building of this trail through his work in the Parry Sound Area Active Transportation group.

5.2 – Terry Zanussi, Chair, Parry Sound Public Library Board. Re: Introduction of Rita Orr, CEO of the Parry Sound Public Library.

5.3 – Forrest Pengra, Manager of Infrastructure and Technology, Town of Parry Sound; Vince Kulchycki, COO Lakeland Power and; Kurt Robertson, Business Development Director AMP Energy. Solar Power Project – A Clean Energy Powered Future

Consent Agenda

8.3 – AMO (Association of Municipalities of Ontario) Opposes Proposed Changes to Public Health System. Resolution. Whereas the provincial government is considering far reaching changes to the public health system based on recommendations made by the Expert Panel on Public Health in their report “Public Health within an Integrated Health System” released on July 20, 2017; and Whereas the Board of Directors of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) and their Health Task Force, does not support the recommendations of the Expert Panel on Public Health and is urging the government not to adopt them; and Whereas if the Expert Panel recommendations are implemented, it will completely change and dilute, over time, the mandate of the local public health system by integrating it with the health care system; and Whereas there was no analysis provided by either the Expert Panel or the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care on the implications of this proposed integration from either a patient, program/service, or cost benefit analysis perspective; Now, Therefore Be It Resolved that Council for the Town of Parry Sound supports AMO in their conclusions about this report and is voicing Council’s opposition to this report to Minister Dr. Eric Hoskins; and Further that this resolution be provided to AMO, Norm Miller, M.P.P., West Parry Sound Municipal Councils and the West Parry Sound Health Centre.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 – Naming of Town to McDougall Trail Link. Resolution. That Council fully supports the naming of the ‘Link’ trail to McDougall “Wink’s Link Community Path” and that an appropriate sign be constructed at the Town entrance to the Trail to be funded from the Trials Master Plan budget at a cost of up to $1,500.

9.1.2 – Bill 68, Modernizing Ontario’s Municipal Legislation Act (Changes to the Municipal Act, 2001, the Municipal Election Act, 1996 and the Conflict of Interest Act) Resolution. That the Staff Report regarding Bill 68, Modernizing Ontario’s Municipal Legislation Act, 2017, be received for information purposes.
Direction (For Direct Staff Follow-up). That the Clerk be directed to update Parry Sound’s policies and by-laws affected by Bill 68 as they pertain to the Municipal Act, the Conflict of Interest Act, and the Municipal Elections Act.

9.1.3 – Succession planning and organizational restructuring. Resolution. That the Succession Planning & Organizational Restructuring report dated October 17, 2017 as attached be approved.

9.3.1 – Solar Power Project – A Clean Energy Powered Future. Direction. THAT Council set the goal of 100% of Town buildings and operations using only electricity from renewable energy sources and supports in principle, the use of Town owned lands, particularly the former McFarlane Landfill site for solar power generation and, THAT the Manager of Infrastructure and Technology be directed to initiate a request for proposal process to select a supplier for the review and potential development of solar generation net metering projects on Town owned property(s), AND THAT staff bring a report back to Council for consideration and award to a potential supplier following the evaluation of any proposals received.

9.4.1 – Stockey Centre Roof & Siding Project – Grant Application.
Resolution. 1. That Council authorizes that application be made to the Department of Canadian Heritage/Canada Cultural Spaces Fund for the Stockey Centre roof and siding project in the amount of $705,525. representing 50% of total project costs; and That Rob Mens be confirmed as the person with signing authority. 2. That in the event the funding application is approved, Council approves an additional $5,600. for debenture for 2017/2018 for this project. Resolution postponed at the September 5, 2017 meeting.
Resolution. That Council accepts the tender from W.S. Morgan Construction Ltd. in the amount of $888,180.00 including HST for roof repairs and siding replacement at the Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts and Bobby Orr Hall of Fame, this being the only tender received; and That the budgeted debenture be increased to reflect the tendered amount.

9.4.2 – Regional Innovation Strategy Initiative. Direction. 1) That the report be received for information purposes; 2) That the Town partner with the Parry Sound Muskoka Community Network by providing meeting space for focus group and information sessions as required, at no cost; and 3) That the Town’s Web site and other forms of social media be utilized to promote participation in the development of a Regional Innovation Strategy.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Council Agenda Preview – October 2, 2017

29 Friday Sep 2017

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It’s time for another meeting of the Parry Sound Council, and there is nothing of a ‘mission critical’ nature on the agenda as far as I can see. There are a few items worth noting as summarized below.

DBA – Items 4.3 and 9.4.2 start the process of strategic plan for the Parry Sound Downtown Business Association.

Trail Link – Items 4.4, 5.2, 8.3 and 9.1.1 are all ‘linked’ with the resignation of Wendall Fisher as chair of the 8 to 80 Committee and the opening of a new trail.

Sale of CN Station – Item 9.3.1. The station, after the previous sale fell through, is being sold for the reduced price of $80,000. That’s a bargain of sorts for the right opportunity.

Bobby Orr Community Centre Upgrade – Item 9.4.1. An investment of $40,000 is required to dehumidify the facility to permit the installation of the ice surface. A climate change consequence? Perhaps we’ll just need to shorten the hockey season in Canada.

Additional items and information can be found below and in the Town’s full Meeting Agenda.

Closed Session

d) labour relations or employee negotiations. (Succession Planning & Organizational Redesign, Personnel Update)

e) litigation or pending litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board. (Zoning Matter)

Correspondence

4.3 – Susan Hyrcyna, EA for Parry Sound Downtown Business Association (PSDBA). Re: Recommendation by the Board to accept the proposal received from Ontario Business Improvement Area Association (OBIAA) and Page By Page Consulting to develop a Strategic Plan for the PSDBA by working with the Downtown Steering Committee and the PSDBA Board.

4.4 – Wink Fisher, Chair – 8-80’s Committee of Council. Re: Mr. Fisher’s resignation from the Committee due to health reasons.

Deputations

5.1 – Trevor Pinn, Director of Finance and POA Court Services. Re: Demonstration of Budget Tool Software.

5.2 – Becky Pollack and Susan Woodhouse, on behalf of the Parry. Sound Active Transportation Committee Re: Request for signage support and contribution on the trail link extending from Mall Drive along Parry Sound Drive to the Nobel Trail. Also request support to name the trail link “Wink’s Link” in recognition of Wendall Fisher’s contribution to the building of this trail through his work in the Parry Sound Area Active Transportation group.

Consent Agenda

8.2 – Audited Statements for Land Ambulance and POA Court Services. Resolution. Whereas the Council for the Town of Parry Sound has previously approved the draft Consolidated Audited Financial Statements for the Town of Parry Sound for the year ending December 31, 2016; And Whereas the Town issues two supplementary statements for the Administration of the POA Court and the Administration of the Land Ambulance Service; Now therefore be it resolved that the Council for the Town of Parry Sound approves, substantially as attached as Schedules “A” and “B”, the audited statements for the Administration of the POA Services and the Administration of the Land Ambulance Service for the year ended December 31, 2016.

8.3 – Wink Fisher, Chair – 8-80’s Committee of Council. Resolution. Whereas Mr. Fisher has served on the 8-80’s Committee of Council since it’s inception; and Whereas Council is very appreciative of Mr. Fisher contribution to the 8-80’s Committee; Now, therefore Be It Resolved that Council accepts, with regret, Mr. Fisher’s resignation as Chair and member of this Committee.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 – Naming of the Parry Sound to McDougall Trail Link and Signage. Resolution. That Council fully supports the naming of the ‘Link’ trail to McDougall “Wink’s Link Community Path” and that an appropriate sign be constructed at the Town entrance to the Trail to be funded from the Trials Master Plan budget at a cost of up to $1,500.

9.3.1 – Sale of CN Station – 1 Station Road. Resolution.  That Council accepts the offer of purchase from Scott Ben Michaud for the purchase of the CN station and property located at 1 Station Road, Parry Sound, in the amount of Eighty thousand dollars ($80,000.00); And further that Council directs staff to retain the services of a solicitor to prepare the final Agreement of Purchase and Sale; And further, that the net proceeds from the sale be placed in the Capital Asset Legacy Reserve fund.

9.4.1 – BOCC: Emergency Dehumidifier Replacement. Resolution. That Council authorize staff to single source the delivery and installation one (1) RefPlus DDE-2500 Ice Rink Desiccant Dehumidifier, from Cimco Refrigeration, for an approximate total of $40, 000, including HST, and that it be funded from the Building Replacement Reserve.

9.4.2 – Downtown Business Association (DBA) Strategic Plan RFP. Resolution. That upon the recommendation of the Downtown Steering Committee, Council accept the proposal from the Ontario BIA Association and Page By Page Consulting for the development of a Downtown Business Association Strategic Plan in the amount of $8,500 attached as Schedule “A”.

9.4.3 – Façade Improvement Program Recommendation – Tanis Mack and Amy Black (Pardon My Garden and a Black-Tie Affair). Resolution. That upon the recommendation of the Façade Improvement Review Committee, Council approve the Pardon My Garden and a Black-Tie Affair application, being 35 Seguin Street in the amount of $1,877.50.

By-laws

10.5.1 – Appointment of Nathan Jeffery as a Municipal Bylaw Enforcement Officer. By-law 2017 – 6772. Being a bylaw to appoint Nathan Jeffery as a Municipal Law Enforcement Officer and to repeal By-law 2002-4443.

I won’t be at the meeting this week. The online stream is so much more convenient. The seating at home is more comfortable with high speed internet available and the option to multitask. It might be fun to start live Tweeting the meetings and engage in a real time discussion of the issues as they are before Council. That might go a long way to stimulating more community participation. Just no mean Tweets.

 

Council Agenda Preview – September 19, 2017

17 Sunday Sep 2017

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The agenda this week is light, light, light. Get out and enjoy the beautiful evening weather. You can always catch this week’s council meeting as a replay later in the week.

Worth Noting:

9.1.1 – Water and Wastewater rates. There is a new pricing model based on usage from the first gallon. It only impacts homes and businesses with a water meter. As more and more houses are sold, and the new owners are required to install a water meter, more and more people will be subject to usage pricing. My sense is that it won’t be more expensive than the unmetered rates as long as you don’t have a leak somewhere, or insist on washing your driveway once a week. The issue has been open to comment for more than a month, so if you have a concern now is the time to raise your voice.

10.3.2 – Stockey Centre website refresh. The proposed cost is about $20,000, and it’s in the 2017 Budget at $30,000.

10.3.3 – The second phase addition to the Gardens (Retirement Residence) is up for approval. It was on last week’s agenda but pushed back two weeks to see if a sidewalk could be included in the plans. The developer preferred to wait until the third phase of the project because of the cost and the logistics. It seems that a compromise of sorts has been reached with a wider section of the road being dedicated and marked as a pedestrian lane. I’m up there often enough to recognize that this will probably meet the needs of the developer, the Town, and the people at the Gardens.

Closed Session:

c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land for municipal or local board purposes. (Business Stimulus Plan)

e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board. (Zoning Matter)

Correspondence

4.1 – Beverley Langford, resident. Re: Letter regarding concerns with Lakeland Power repair times.

4.2 – Peter Istvan, Canada College. Re: Offering of Leadership Series at Canadore College, Parry Sound

Deputations

5.1 – Bill McMeekan, Camp Oochigeas, Summer Camp for Children with Cancer. Raising awareness of this Summer Camp and fundraising.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 – Proposed New Water and Wastewater Rate Structure. Direction. That the Accounting Supervisor proceed with establishing a water and wastewater rate structure similar to Option 3 that was presented on February 21, 2012 and return with proposed rates for 2018 to 2021. This rate structure would have a monthly fixed charge, based on meter size, and a consumptive rate (per gallon / per cubic metre) that is uniform for all customers. There will be the removal of the monthly allowable consumption, that is to say that metered users will pay for the exact usage.

9.2.1 – Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund (OCIF) – Isabella Street Realignment. Resolution. That Council direct staff to apply for OCIF top-up funding to offset the cost to realign Isabella Street from Summit Avenue to William Street to accommodate a sidewalk and improve the storm sewer system, as well as improve the sanitary connections.

9.5.1 – Goal Plan Update – 3rd Quarter. Resolution. That Council approves the September, 2017 Third Quarter Goal Plan update, attached as Schedule “A”.

By-laws

10.1.1 – Review of Investment Policy. By-law 2017 – 6768. Being a By-law to Approve an “Investment Policy” for the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound and Repeal By-law 2015-6492.

10.3.2 – Stockey Centre/Bobby Orr Hall of Fame Website Redesign and Volunteer Online Database Development Approval. By-law 2017 – 6770. Being a By-law to authorize the execution of an agreement between the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound and Future Access to redesign the Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts and Bobby Orr Hall of Fame websites and to redevelop the Volunteer Online Database.

10.3.3 – Site Plan Amendment – M2 Developments Inc. – 12 College Drive. By-law 2017 – 6765. Being a By-law to authorize a Site Plan / Development Amending Agreement between the Town of Parry Sound and 12 College Drive (M2 Developments Inc.).

I will take my own advice and catch the meeting online, sooner or later.

Council Agenda Preview – September 5, 2017

05 Tuesday Sep 2017

Posted by in Budget/Financial, Parry Sound, Town Council

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This evening’s agenda is pretty light in terms of issues but there are a couple of proposed expenditures that are worth looking at a little closer. Item 9.1.2 concerns a new Public Water Tap that is budgeted at $50,000. I see no issue with this new amenity that is largely targeted to non-Parry Sound residents, residents can just get water at home, but I do have an issue with the proposed funding. The suggestion is that the cost be taken out of the Tax Rate Stabilization Reserve. This Tax Rate Stabilization Reserve is becoming a bit of a slush fund for municipal expenses. I don’t see why this expense can’t wait for the 2018 Budget process and be included, or not, in next year’s budget. The Tax Rate Stabilization Reserve is intended to manage the ups and downs of reviewed and approved budget expenses. Let’s not start dipping into this reserve to deal with issues unrelated to rate stabilization. Honey, the new Play Station just came out, the kids will love it. Can I use some of their university funds to pay for it? Reply: can’t it wait until Christmas when we will have saved up for this type of expense and decide if it’s what the kids really want?

The second budget related item is 9.2.3, Stockey Centre repairs in the amount of $850,000. Staff is requesting that the budget for the project be increased from the approved $700,000 and be paid for with a larger debenture. I guess it costs what it costs, but had Council known it would be this much would there have been some additional cuts when discussing the 2017 budget? And a comment on the proposal to save $10K by only putting Ice and Water Shield on the valleys and troughs. Suck it up and pay to have the whole roof done. That 35-year manufacturer’s shingle warranty isn’t worth squat; we will be lucky to get 15 years. If you won’t spring for a metal roof, at least make the best out of shingles with a full coverage of Ice and Water Shield.

Lastly, the Town is looking at selling property proximate to Canadore College. You can see the 1.5 acre lot in the image below. The sale is probably a good idea to stimulate a bit more development at the north end of Town. I hope that the proceeds of the sale will not simply be put into a slush fund. It’s too easy to cover a spending ‘problem’ by dipping into slush fund reserves and taking out debentures. It’s the same as a consumer taking on credit card debt and a home equity loan to handle what should have been saved for. It just delays the expenses and increases the cost. But it’s ‘less painful’ for some, including politicians, than exercising some self control and saying “No!”.

Closed Session Agenda Topics

  1. a) the security of property of the municipality or local board. (Potential Development Project), (Audit Questions of Council), (CP Station)
  2. b) personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees (Local Board)

(c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board; (Request for Proposal)

Correspondence

4.1 – Letter from Wendall Fisher, Resident. Town’s initiative to have a report prepared regarding the cessation of train whistling at the five crossing. Mr. Fisher is not in support of this.

4.2 – Letter from Thomas Buttineau, McDougall resident. Concerns with used needles surfacing at the local beaches and playgrounds and requesting support from Parry Sound to open a Treatment Centre.

Deputations

5.1 – Giselle Bodkin, CPA, CA, BDO Canada LLP, Parry Sound’s Auditor. Re: Year End Report for The Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound

Consent Agenda

8.3 – Special Meeting of Council – Staff Succession Planning. Resolution. That ______________________ at 6:00 pm be scheduled as a Special Closed Council meeting for the purpose of staff succession planning; and That Resolution 2017-139 be rescinded.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.2 – Public Water Tap. Resolution. That Council approve the installation of a public water dispensing system adjacent to the existing commercial bulk water station located on Parry Sound Drive, and further; That Council authorize the transfer of up to $50,000 from the Tax Rate Stabilization Reserve to finance the project.

9.2.1 – Report to commence closure of portion of Parry Sound Drive road allowance. Direction. That staff commence the procedures to stop up and close, appropriately rezone and dispose of a portion of the Parry Sound Drive road allowance.

9.2.3 – Tender – Stockey Centre Phase II Roof Repairs and Siding Replacement. Resolution. That Council accepts the tender from W.S. Morgan Construction Ltd. in the amount of $888,180.00 including HST for roof repairs and siding replacement at the Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts and Bobby Orr Hall of Fame, this being the only tender received; and That the budgeted debenture be increased to reflect the tendered amount.

9.5.1 – Approval of Consolidated Financial Statements for the year-ended December 31. Resolution. That Council for the Town of Parry Sound does hereby approve the Draft Audited Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2016 as attached in Schedule “A”.

9.5.2 – Financial Variance Report for Q2 (June 30, 2017). Resolution. That Council hereby receives and accepts the Financial Report for Q2 2017 (June 30, 2017) attached as Schedule “A”; and Further that Council hereby approves the expenses for members of Council for the period January 1, 2017 to June 30, 2017, attached as Schedule “B”.

By-laws

10.2.1 – Site Plan Amendment – M2 Developments Inc. – 12 College Drive. By-law 2017 – 6765. Being a By-law to authorize a Site Plan / Development Amending Agreement between the Town of Parry Sound and 12 College Drive (M2 Developments Inc.)

10.5.1 – Execution of Agreement with Collection Agency. By-law 2017 – 6766. Being a By-law to authorize the execution of a Customer Retention and Collection Services Agreement between A-1 Credit Recovery & Collection Services Inc. (“A-1CRCS”) and the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound.

I won’t be at tonight’s council meeting. I figure my time is better spent digging a little deeper into the council package.

Council Agenda Preview – August 8, 2017

07 Monday Aug 2017

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This week’s meeting of Parry Sound Council is packed with a number of items. It’s a bit of a mix of operational and organizational issues. I have provided comment (italics) for several of the agenda items.

  1. b) personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees (Human Resources)
  2. c) a proposed or pending acquisition of land for municipal or local board purposes. (potential land acquisition) (Waterfront development)
    Waterfront development continues to be on Council’s closed session agenda without any information being shared with the public.
  3. d) labour relations or employee negotiations (personnel matter)

Correspondence

4.2 – Ministry of Finance. Transitional mitigation payment to eligible municipalities re: tax exemption for Long Term Care Homes

Deputations

5.1 – Chris McDonald & Erin Cardy. Splash Pad for Parry Sound

5.2 – Thomas Buttineau. Needles & Addictions, A Cry for Help

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

 9.1.1 – Tender – Bowes Street Retaining Wall. Resolution. That upon the recommendation of Triton Engineering Services Limited, Council accepts the tender from Weeks Construction Inc. in the amount of $218,067.40, including HST, for the construction of the northwest retaining wall on Bowes Street and Louisa Street, this tender being the lowest tender of three tenders received; and further, That Council increase the allotment in the Capital Replacement Reserve Fund to cover the shortfall of $58,067.40.

9.1.2 – Pre-budget approval – Vacuum Truck. Resolution. That Council authorize pre-budget approval in the amount of $350,000 to purchase a new vacuum truck and further; That Council approve single sourcing the equipment through an authorized Vactor dealer.
This apparently is in the budget as part of the long term equipment replacement program.

9.2.1 – Cultural Spaces Canada Grant Application – Stockey Centre Audio and Projection Systems. Resolution. That Council approves the request for funding from the Department of Canadian Heritage, Cultural Spaces Canada, in the amount of $23,349 representing 50% of the total costs of audio and projection upgrades at the Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts.

9.3.1 – Henvey Inlet EMS Service. Direction (For Direct Staff Follow-up): That upon the recommendation of the EMS Advisory Committee staff prepare documentation to justify the application to the Ministry of Health for 100% funding of a base located in Henvey Inlet FN and that staff enter negotiations with MOH to implement and manage the Henvey Inlet base.

9.4.2 – Succession Planning. Resolution. That September 26, 2017 at 6:00 pm be scheduled as a Special Closed Council meeting for the purpose of succession planning.
I believe that the Town will be looking to fill the CAO position in the next couple of years. I hope that the new CAO, whether promoted from within or hired from the outside, will be a resident of Parry Sound, not living in one of the lower tax surrounding communities. I have no issue with Staff living outside of Parry Sound but I believe the CAO, who directs the activities of Staff, needs to experience life in Parry Sound, as a resident. It’s pretty easy to overlook, or not understand, any number of quality of life issues of local residents and businesses if you don’t live here. Yes, people might let you know about what is right and wrong about being a resident of Parry Sound, but there needs to be first hand experience. Just my two cents. It may be a little like the experience of our neighbours to the south who have a president who doesn’t really ‘get’ the issues because he prefers to retreat to his out of Washington residences, rather than sit in the White House and get first hand experience.

9.5.1 – 2016 Reserve and Reserve Fund Report. Resolution. That Council receives the 2016 Reserve and Reserve Fund Report, attached as Schedule A, in compliance with the Town’s Reserve and Reserve Fund Policy.

9.5.2 – Reserve Transfers – Downtown Business Association. Resolution. That Council hereby approves a transfer of up to $8,000, conditional on a minimum $2,000 contribution from the Downtown Business Association, from the Tax Rate Stabilization Reserve for the purpose of funding the costs of a strategic plan for the Downtown Business Association.
It’s my sense that Council and Staff aren’t happy with the performance of the Downtown Business Association. The Town wants something to happen but they don’t really want to invest their own time and effort. They had an active Downtown a couple of years ago, but some members of Council resented their activism. Oh dear, how to find the right balance?

9.5.3 – Reserve Transfers – Website. Resolution. That Council hereby approves a transfer of $4,800 from the Tax Rate Stabilization Reserve for the purpose of funding the implementation costs of the Form Builder module from e-Solutions.
This seems like a good investment.

9.5.4 – POA Write-offs. Resolution. That Council for the Town of Parry Sound, hereby approves the write-offs for the Provincial Offences Act Court outlined in Schedule “A” attached.
Another round of ten-plus year old write offs; the total amount is $5,300.

9.5.5 – 2018 Budget Schedule. Resolution. That Council hereby approves the 2018 budget preparation schedule as set out per “Schedule A” attached.
Ladies and gentlemen, open your spreadsheets. It would be nice if the schedule included a note of what steps were open to the Public and when Staff and Council would prefer to receive public comment. How about a date of when the first draft of the budget will be available to the Public and a deadline for Public input and comment? With council meetings being streamed online it is likely more people will participate in the process, possibly too late to provide meaningful input.

9.5.6 – Creation of Hotel Tax. Direction. That the Director of Finance be directed to create an ad-hoc committee including industry members, to further research, develop and design a hotel tax system for the Town of Parry Sound.
This fits in with 9.6.1, and is necessary if the Town is to provide residents, visitors and businesses with the level of amenities and services they expect. Improving the business climate in Parry Sound generates little incremental revenue, at best it stabilizes the tax base.

9.6.1 – Local Share – 1% Sales Tax Increase. Resolution. Whereas municipal operating costs Provincially are growing at $1 billion annually, just to maintain current services, and Whereas the total annual municipal budget gap as calculated by AMO is estimated to be $4.9 billion annually for the next 10 years to maintain current services levels and finance infrastructure needs, and Whereas property tax and user fees would have to increase at about 8% per year to close that gap, and Whereas municipalities own approximately two-thirds of all public infrastructure, all of which needs to be maintained, and Whereas AMO has reviewed dozens of options to help finance municipal governments, and Whereas the Town’s 2016 Asset Management Plan estimated a backlog of approximately $36 million and an annual infrastructure funding gap for tax-supported assets of $4,626,000. Whereas Council has agreed and implemented a 1.8% annual capital levy in addition to acceptable cost of living increases, Now therefore be it resolved that Council of the Town of Parry Sound supports AMO’s ‘Local Share’ initiative that would see a new proposed 1% (HST) sales tax increase, to support local infrastructure investment.
Yup, the money has to come from somewhere. If you don’t like the 1% sales tax feel free to offer the Town alternatives. This tax would in some small part capture a contribution from our neighbours and visitors who appreciate and make use of Parry Sound’s services and infrastructure. I’m okay with a splash park, but who should be responsible for the costs?

By-laws

10.1.1 – Funding Agreement – Waubeek Street. Being a by-law to authorize the execution of a Clean Water and Wastewater Fund Transfer Payment Agreement between Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Ontario as represented by the Minister of Infrastructure and The Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound.
This represents a $1.1 million provincial grant for the Waubeek Street reconstruction. The total project is estimated to cost $5.4 million.

10.2.1 – Site Plan Approval Application – The Parry Sound Affordable Housing. Development Corporation – 82 Gibson Street. Being a By-law to grant Site Plan Approval and authorize the execution and registration of a development agreement with 82 Gibson Street (The Parry Sound Affordable Housing Development Corporation).
I guess this will be approved as the developer has already started building the foundation.

10.2.2 – Site Plan Approval Application – 1793951 Ontario Inc. / Greystone Project. Being a By-law to grant Site Plan Approval and authorize the execution and registration of a development agreement with Granite Harbour/1793951 Ontario Inc./Greystone Project Management Inc. – 11c Salt Dock Road.
This represents the third phase of the project. After much concern about the lack of activity following the first phase of Granite Harbour, the development is moving forward nicely.

10.5.1 – Accounts Receivable Policy. Being a By-law to Establish an Accounts Receivable Collections Policy.

10.5.2 – Tax Collections Policy. Being a By-law to Establish a Tax Collections Policy.

10.5.3 – Asset Management Policy and Asset Management Strategy. Being a By-law to Establish an Asset Management Policy and Resolution, That Council hereby adopts the Asset Management Strategy, attached as Schedule A.

I’ll be there. If you can’t make it check out the live stream.

Life on the Big Sound (August 2017)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Trestle Logic

15 Thursday Jun 2017

Posted by in Parry Sound, Safety, Suggestions, Train

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When entering a parking structure in the Big Smoke have you noticed how there is generally a bar of some sort hanging from a couple of chains that you are required to drive under? There is also a sign that advises you the maximum vehicle height that can safely park in the structure. But, because people don’t like to read signs, or they don’t have a good sense of heights and numbers, the hanging bar acts as a check. If there is a bump as you pass under the bar you know that you have bigger problems ahead. Time to back up and park somewhere else.

So what do you think would happen if a parking garage posted the correct maximum height sign but set the bar a foot higher? Do you think people would look at the sign and think that the bar is set too high? Or would they simply ignore the sign and see if they fit under? If they are driving a vehicle that is a bit higher, perhaps a pickup truck with a camper unit on the back, they would probably inch forward cautiously, and once they passed under the hanging bar, assume they are okay and drive into the garage. Surprise!

This is basically the situation on William Street in Parry Sound and the CN trestle where there have been three ‘decapitations’ complete and partial in the past year. As you approach the trestle there is a frame structure about 15 feet in front of either side of the trestle. The sign on the trestle says that the maximum height is 10’6”. That seems like enough information to warn the truck driver with an 11’ height to take another route. What would you think if I told you that the clearance of the trestle, where the trucks hit the trestle, is greater than 11’, offering drivers a considerable margin of error. But perhaps 10’6” is actually more reasonable. As you look at the photo below you realize that there is a drop down as the truck travels under the trestle but the box of the truck would still be at the higher road level. That would lead to an angle which might actually make it an effective 10’6”, even if it’s actually three-quarters of a foot higher directly under the trestle.

The problem is not just professional drivers not knowing the height of their rig, or not paying attention, it’s also the support frame about 15 feet in front of the trestle. This structure has a clearance of 13’. I can well imagine that a truck driver might cautiously approach this 13’ frame and, discovering that they are able to get under it, assume they can fit under the trestle. It’s a bit of an optical illusion the way the road dips down, suggesting there is more clearance than there is.

The answer it seems is pretty simple. Suspend a bar on chains under the two support frames at 10’6”, much as you see in parking garages. A truck would pretty quickly figure out that they weren’t going to fit if they heard a thump well before they ventured forward and tore the top off their trailer.

We have had three such incidents just this year. You would think that CN would have figured it out by now that something needs to be done.

Has the Town received a formal report from CN attesting to the integrity of the trestle? Three dings in the past year and many more over the past few decades could mean there is unrecognized structural damage. But, it seems the railways always find it cheaper to apologize and make repairs after the fact than practice prevention.

 

Council Agenda Preview – June 6, 2017

04 Sunday Jun 2017

Posted by in Parry Sound, Town Council

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This week’s meeting of Council is light on ‘meaty’ issues, but sets the path for some  important future initiatives. I have listed a few of the more interesting items in the sections below, with comments as appropriate.

But first, a few comments on this past week’s Special Meeting of Council to Review Strategic Priorities. From my perspective, it seemed much like a made for show production. The meeting lasted about 35 minutes and was for the most part very formalized. This followed a 60 minute closed session where I imagine all of the relevant discussion was held and general agreements were reached. The ‘Dotmocracy’ process was conducted with little surprise, and even less prioritization. A suggestion to the organizers, if there are five topics for review, provide the users with only three green stickers. That will help folks to make some decisions in terms of what really is a priority. It has been noted that the enemy of the best is the good. Obviously, none of the projects, which included last year’s priorities and this year’s new ones, were likely to be outright rejected, especially if there was previous discussion in Closed Session. So which of the 5 strategic priorities were both important and urgent? I couldn’t tell from the voting or the discussion. One of the best ways to find yourself in debt is to decide that a new car, a new snow machine, braces for the nine-year old, and a nice winter vacation are all 6 Green priority items. Sometimes you need to decide what is really, really the most important, and most urgent.

Here are the Dotmocracy results from Tuesday night:
Great North Road Infrastructure – 6 Green
Parry Sound Road Extension – 6 Green
Closed Item A – 6 Green
Innovation Park – 4 Green, 2 Yellow
Tourism – 3 Green, 3 Yellow

So what is Closed Item A? It seems to be something new, and an initiative that requires Town infrastructure investment. I have an idea of what it might be, but I may be totally wrong. What do others think it might be? Here are some clues:

  1. It ranked among the top of strategic priorities. So it is ‘important’, at least for now.
  2. It’s something new, or at least something that has once again become a priority.
  3. It’s unlikely to be the casino project. That would largely be addressed with the Great North and Parry Sound Road priorities.
  4. The Town recently spent about $1 million on the boathouse properties on the waterfront.
  5. The Town also spent about a quarter million dollars on property across Oastler Park Drive from the Canadian Tire.
  6. The Town last year entered into a memorandum of understanding regarding access and future servicing with the folks at Beatty Big Sound Property. This relates to the property north of the Smelter Wharf.

If you have any ideas you can provide a comment to this blog post or, if you prefer privacy, send me an email at parrysounds@gmail.com. I will share your thoughts but keep your name confidential. Let’s use the “wisdom of the crowd” to see if we can figure this one out.

If you want to skip forward to the more interesting agenda items here is what I suggest: 8.1, 9.2.1, 9.2.2, 9.6.1 and 9.6.2.

Closed Session

b) personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees (Licensing Appeal, Appointment)
c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board; (Request to Transfer Lease)
d) labour relations or employee negotiations. (Performance Review, Director of Emergency and Protective Services)

Correspondence

4.1 – Debbie White, Co-founder World Oceans Day. Raising awareness of World Oceans Day June 8, 2017 asking Parry Sound to recognize and support the need to protect our water, waterways and oceans for the life they give us and offering ways to educate the public on ways to protect our waters.

4.2a&b – Cheryl Gallant, MP Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke. Removal of the tax-exempt portion of remuneration paid to local officials and the Municipality of East Ferris’ resolution. East Ferris Resolution in support of Ms. Gallant.
See 8.1 below for comments.

4.3a&b – Marlene Bisson. Questions about the Service Line warranty program, water and wastewater and tax concerns with responses from J. Boggs & T. Pinn

4.4 – Parry Sound Friendship Centre. Invitation to Mayor & Council to attend their 50th Anniversary celebration June 17th.

Deputations

5.1 – Vanessa Backman, Parry Sound Tourism. Providing an update on Parry Sound Tourism for 2017

5.2 – Margaret Walton. Regarding Habitat for Humanity.

Consent Agenda

8.1 – Removal of the tax-exempt portion of remuneration paid to local officials. Resolution. That Council for the Town of Parry Sound supports the letter from Cheryl Gallant, Member of Parliament for Renfrew, Nipissing, Pembroke and the resolution from East Ferris, attached as Schedules “A” and “B” which are against the removal of the tax- exempt portion of remuneration paid to local officials as stipulated in the 2017 Federal Budget; And further that copies of this resolution be forwarded to Premier of Ontario Kathleen Wynne, Local MP Tony Clement, Local MPP Norm Miller and the West Parry Sound Area municipalities.
This tax-exempt issue concerns the current situation that about 1/3 of the remuneration received by members of Council is not subject to tax. This is intended to compensate these individuals for their out-of-pocket expenses related to discharging their duties as a Councillor or Mayor. Since most councillors serve in addition to their regular jobs, the tax on this 1/3 of their council remuneration would be rather significant. I believe that members of Council currently are reimbursed for any significant travel expenses, and in some cases receive honoraria for serving on certain boards, so it may be time for this little perk to disappear. If they want to avoid the additional tax burden they should just tuck this amount into their RRSP.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.2.1 – Revised Organization Chart for Development and Leisure Services Resolution. That Council approve the revised Organization Chart for the Department of Development and Leisure Services, per Schedule “A” attached; and That Resolution No: 2013-207 be rescinded.
The actual change here is a matter of tidying up the organogram for Development and Leisure Services. But the organogram is interesting, especially the large number of staff, full and part-time associated with the Stockey Centre. That certainly helps explain why the Town wants to keep it non-union. Click on the image below to see the ‘big picture’.

9.2.2 – 2017 Municipal Assistance Program. Resolution. That Council approve the 2017 Municipal Assistance Program allocations per Schedule “A” attached.
The numbers will be decided in closed session and announced in open session.

9.4.1 – Booth Street Park Water. Resolution. That a water service be installed to the Booth St. Community Park to be funded from the Parks Reserve.

9.6.1 – Train Whistle Cessation. Direction. That the Director of Public Works be directed to bring forward a report and recommendation for the July 4, 2017 Council meeting regarding train whistle cessation.
This is an interesting new initiative. Can they perhaps also look into having the railways better service their ‘greasers’ to reduce the amount of squealing as the trains round corners? We have a few curves in Parry Sound if you haven’t noticed.

9.6.2 – Potential Hotel Tax. Direction. That the Director of Finance be directed to bring forward to the September 5, 2017 Council meeting, pending release of regulations, a report and recommendation regarding a potential hotel tax.
Another interesting initiative. The Town almost totally depends on property taxation for revenue. If more tourists come to Parry Sound and spend more money it doesn’t translate into more revenue for the Town. That may explain why the Town has invested little in the Downtown with the exception of free parking. The bulk of new revenue will come from new construction like the Breakers project at the Smelter Wharf. Adding a hotel or hospitality tax would deliver a new and additional source of revenue. Better to get it in place now before any additional investment is made in capacity. Eventually a restaurant tax?

By-laws

10.2.1 – Bobby Orr Community Centre: Pro Shop Lease Agreement. By-law 2017-6743. Being a by-law to authorize the Mayor and Deputy Clerk/CAO to execute an agreement with 4 Sports Inc., for the purpose of Pro-Shop operation at the Bobby Orr Community Centre for a one (1) year period.

10.3.1 – On Call Municipal Law Enforcement Officer. By-law 2017-6744. Being a By-law to authorize the Mayor and Deputy Clerk/CAO to execute a service contract with Cameron Marshall for the provision of On Call Municipal Law Enforcement Services.

10.3.2 – Appointment Bylaw – Chris Everitt, Earl Smallwood, Tom Evans, Cameron Marshall, Municipal Law Enforcement Officers. By-law 2017-6745. Being a bylaw to appoint Chris Everitt, Earl Smallwood, Tom Evans, Cameron Marshall as Municipal Law Enforcement Officers.

10.5.1 – Business Improvement (BIA) Levy by-law – Downtown business area. By-law 2017-6736. Being a bylaw to Adopt the Estimates of the Board of Management of the Downtown Parry Sound Business Improvement Area and to Strike the Tax Rate Thereon for the Year 2017.

Columbine on the North Shore Rugged Trail (May 2017)

 

 

 

Parry Sound 2016 Annual Report

30 Thursday Mar 2017

Posted by in Budget/Financial, Parry Sound, Reflections

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The Parry Sound 2016 Annual Report came out yesterday, or at least it was in my mail yesterday. It’s an interesting read and does a good job of summarizing what was accomplished and where the money was spent.

It’s nice to think that as a town we really don’t need any improvements or investments, and that taxes should be frozen, or even reduced. Like any living organism, or organization, growth and renewal require ongoing investment. While you may be perfectly happy with that new kitchen you installed in the 70s, residents and businesses do expect services and facilities to be maintained and refurbished as necessary.

The reality is that as a community we provide, and pay for, services and infrastructure that are a necessity for our low tax neighbours. Our neighbours seem to have problems rationalizing an investment in the high speed internet they insist is critical for their future. But when your neighbour provides most essential services why not look to the Province and Canada to provide for things that Parry Sound doesn’t?

I realize that people are frustrated by the municipal tax load carried by Town of Parry Sound residents and businesses. After attending some five years of council meetings and budget discussions I am unable to accuse Council and Staff of making unwise investments. There are any number of expenditures that I disagree with, but these are nickel and dime items in terms of the whole budget. Even if you consider all of the nickel and dime issues they don’t add up to a loonie. My sense is that if you want Parry Sound services and low taxes, move to McDougall or Seguin. Consider Carling and McKellar if you don’t mind the longer drive to Parry Sound. You will be coming here for one thing or another, pretty much every day.

Council Agenda Preview – March 21, 2017

19 Sunday Mar 2017

Posted by in Parry Sound, Town Council

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There appears to be very little of material importance on this week’s agenda. There is a letter requesting future zoning by-law amendments to permit chickens (4.5). There are a couple of capital related items on the agenda, one that was in the approved 2017 Budget (9.5.3) and one that wasn’t (9.5.2 – materials for repairs to the Town docks off of McIssac way for transient boater use).

Thinking about attending this week’s meeting of Council? It’s a good idea. I’m pasting below today’s comments from Seth Godin that seem relevant. (Note: I recommend Seth’s Blog, it’s short and arrives daily, as a wonderful source of insight and reflection.)

Showing up
Some people show up when they need something.

Some people show up before they need something, knowing that it will pay off later, when they need something.

And some people merely show up. Not needing anything, not in anticipation of needing something, but merely because they can.

Closed Session

c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land for municipal or local board purposes. (Development Potential)

Correspondence

4.1 – Honourable Dipika Damerla. Minister of Seniors Affairs. Re: 2017 Senior of the Year Award

4.2 – Zack Crafts and Nicole Collins, Treetops Community Forest Re: Thank you card for the Town’s assistance and financial support for the Treetops Community Forest project.

4.5 – Wave Weir, McKellar Township. Re: Requesting future amendment to the Zoning By-law include allowing Parry Sound residents to have backyard hens.

4.6 – Petition – Signed by 22 residents of Macklaim Drive and provided by Bill Heitman Re: Requesting “that Parry Sound take the necessary steps to have the speed limit of Macklaim Drive and Dennis Drive reduced to 40 km/hr for the safety of the walkers both young and young at heart”.

Consent Agenda

8.3 – Support for Parry Sound Area Municipal Airport Application for RED Funding. Resolution. Whereas on the 21st day of August, 2000 the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound and the Township of Seguin entered into an Agreement for the operation, control and management of the Parry Sound Area Municipal Airport; and Whereas, as per Paragraph 13. of the said Agreement, The Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound and The Corporation of the Township of Seguin hold title to the Airport lands; and Whereas, the Parry Sound Area Municipal Airport Commission has prepared an application to the Rural Economic Development (RED) Program for funding for the Airport Economic/Strategic Plan and related studies; and Whereas the Parry Sound Area Municipal Airport Commission passed Resolution 2017- 28, attached as Schedule “A”, requesting the Township of Seguin to act as the lead applicant for the RED program funding; and Whereas the Township of Seguin passed Resolution 2017 – 097, attached as Schedule “B”, approving the Township of Seguin to act as the Contract Agent on behalf of the Commission and its member municipalities to the conclusion of the referenced Project; And Further that in the event there are cost overruns for this project, the Township of Seguin will provide financial assistance to the Parry Sound Area Municipal Airport Commission as required; Now, Therefore Be It Resolved that Council for the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound is in full support of the application for RED funding and the management of it’s application by the Township of Seguin.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1 – Sign Variance – 48 Bowes. Resolution. That the Chief Building Official is authorized and directed to issue a permit for the sign at 48 Bowes Street according to Schedule “A” attached.

9.3.1 – Blue Sky Net – Support for Innovate to Connect Project. Resolution. Whereas access to affordable and reliable broadband networks is an important part of everyday life and; Whereas communities outside urban centres face challenges in accessing internet service levels comparable to those in cities due to factors such as remote location and challenging terrain and; Whereas access to Broadband is key to economic, education, social and health development and; Whereas much of the West Parry Sound Area currently has little or less than 5mbps broadband coverage; Therefore, Be It Resolved That Council for the Town of Parry Sound supports Blue Sky Net’s application for funding under the (Innovation, Science and Economic Development) program, Connect to Innovate (CTI).

9.3.2 – WPS Smart – Support for Innovate to Connect Project. Resolution. That Council of the Town of Parry Sound does hereby support the West Parry Sound SMART Community Network Inc., in their application for Government of Canada’s Connect to Innovate Program.

9.3.3 – Lakeland Networks – Support for Innovate to Connect Project. Resolution. That Council of the Town of Parry Sound does hereby support Lakeland Networks in their application for Government of Canada’s Connect to Innovate Program and authorizes the Mayor to sign the letter, attached as Schedule “A”, in support of this application.

9.4.1 – 2016 Statement of Remuneration Paid to Council and Appointed Board Members. Resolution. That the 2016 Statement of Remuneration Paid to Council and Appointed Board Members, attached as Schedule “A”, be accepted.

9.5.1 – Noise Exemption – Cascade Street Generation Project. Resolution. That Council grant Bracebridge Generation an exemption to By-law 2009-5301, a bylaw to prohibit and regulate noise within the municipality to allow their contractor to work on the Cascade Street generation project on Sunday, March 26 and Sunday, April 2 between the hours of 09:00 and 19:00 and further; That Council grant the Director of Public Works the authority to permit the contractor to work during prohibited days and times as may be requested by Bracebridge Generation in the future and as may be deemed necessary in order to avoid significant delays to the project completion.

9.5.2 – Shopper’s Dock Replacement. Resolution. That Council approve the transfer of $10,000 from the Infrastructure Replacement Reserve to the Operating budget to fund the construction of new shopper’s docks.

9.5.3 – Quotation – Madvac LN50. Resolution. That Council approve single sourcing and accept the quotation from Joe Johnson Equipment for one new model Madvac complete with a 48″ hydraulic raise and lower vacuum head in the amount of $57,800, taxes extra.

By-laws

10.1.1 – Approval of Funding Agreement – New Horizons for Seniors Program Ontario Spokesperson: April McNamara, Manager of Parks and Recreation By-law 2017 – 672. Being a By-law to authorize the execution of a Letter of Agreement between Her Majesty the Queen in right of the Province of Ontario, represented by the Minister of Transportation for the Province of Ontario (the “Ministry”) and the Town of Parry Sound (the “Municipality”) Related to Funding Provided by the Province of Ontario (the “Province”) to the Municipality under the Dedicated Gas Tax Funds for Public Transportation Program

10.1.2 – Cash-in-lieu of Parking Agreement – Z/17/02 – 25 Mary Street – Aleesha Mullen. By-law 2017 – 6722. Being a By-law to authorize the execution of a cash-in-lieu of parking agreement between 25 Mary Street (Aleesha Mullen) and The Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound

10.1.3 – Revised Site Plan Control By-law. By-law 2017 – 6723. Being a By-law to designate a Site Plan Control Area for The Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound and repeal By-law 2015-6545.

I won’t be showing up this week. I’m making a presentation in the Big Apple for a client.

 

Parry Sound’s Business Stimulus Plan – v2016

01 Wednesday Mar 2017

Posted by in Parry Sound, Town Council

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The recently issued Town of Parry Sound 2017 Key Objectives document presented and approved at a recent council meeting contained a couple of items that I thought were notable. In particular I noted the objective of having the Town gain control over the approval of Official Plan Amendments. At present the Town needs to get approval from the Province for these changes. As I have written earlier (Item 9.3.1) I don’t think this is a good idea. If Council can choose to make changes to the Official Plan against the stated opinions of the town’s residents and businesses we are likely to see some unpleasant surprises. At a recent Council meeting it was mentioned that this objective was previously approved by Council as part of the Official Business Plan. I have since tracked down a copy of that document.

The document is part of Resolution 2016-77 that was approved as part of the 2016-04-19 meeting of Parry Sound council (Item 9.6.1). Links to this open agenda document can be found hosted here on Parry Sounds.com. It’s worth taking a look at what the Business Stimulus Team has planned for Parry Sound. It explains a number of the initiatives listed in the 2017 Key Objectives document and the 2017 Budget. The original agenda package version includes the attachments not found in the approved by-law that was sent to me.

I have highlighted areas of interest, to me at least, in an annotated version of the approved by-law. Take the time to at least look over one of the documents and see if there is anything you are supportive of, or are concerned about. In either case, contact a member of Council and let them know what you think. Without input from the public they will do what they think is in the best interests of the community.