Tag Archives: Planning

03 Friday Apr 2020

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These are strange times and the agenda this week is stripped down to the essentials. The most notable items for most folks are:

10.2.1 – Relief of Penalty and Interest for Property Taxes and Utilities. Corresponding Resolution and By-law that waives late payment penalties and fines on property taxes and water related charges for the period April 1 – June 30, 2020. See the full agenda with attachments for details.

10.4.1 – Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/20/01 – Additional Unit Amendment (Town of Parry Sound). This is an issue involving multiple considerations and will permit the creation of additional dwelling units within a residential unit. There are some limitations that are described in the full agenda package. This is an item that was presented to the public and received no comments, pro or con. So, without any direction from the Public, and as it aligns with Provincial guidance, it will go forward.

A special meeting of Council on the 6th will approve conducting council meetings by video conferencing. My understanding is that the sessions will still be live streamed and made available later on the Town’s YouTube channel. There will be some issues related to deputations and public meetings that I expect will be moot for the next couple of months or handled by conferencing in the necessary folks. Making an appeal or suggestion in writing is hopefully not yet a lost skill.

Correspondence
None

Deputations
None

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.5.1 – Request for COVID-19 Confirmed Cases Statistics in West Parry Sound.
Resolution
Whereas in order to fight the COVID-19 virus in your community it is important to understand the status of confirmed cases in that community; and
Whereas the catchment area for the West Parry Sound Health Centre is only a portion of the area served by North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit;
Now therefore be it resolved 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.

By-laws
10.1.1 – Charles W. Stockey Centre & Bobby Orr Hall of Fame Art Exhibition.
By-law 2020 – 7036
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of an agreement with 18 James Street for the rental of wall space for an art exhibit at the Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts.

10.2.1 – COVID-19 Pandemic – Relief of Penalty and Interest for Property Taxes and Utilities
Resolution
Whereas the declaration of a state of emergency by the Province of Ontario due to the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a widespread closure of businesses and layoffs or loss of jobs;
Now Therefore be it resolved that the application of penalty and interest on 2020 interim property tax billings be waived for the applicable dates between April 1st and June 30th, 2020; and
Further That penalty and interest on water and sewer accounts be waived between April 1st and June 30th; and
Further That transfer to taxes and the disconnection of water/sewer services on past- due accounts be placed on hold between April 1st and June 30th, 2020; and
Further That non-sufficient funds (NSF) charges be waived for both property taxes and water and sewer accounts between April 1st and June 30th, 2020; and
Further That a by-law be passed to make the above amendments to applicable by-laws.
By-law 2020 – 7031
Being a bylaw to amend various by-laws to provide for temporary penalty and interest relief on taxes, sewer, water and NSF charges due to economic hardship as a result of COVID-19 pandemic.

10.2.2 – Approval of Transfer Payment Agreement – Municipal Modernization Program. By-law 2020 – 7032
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of a Transfer Payment Agreement with the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing regarding funding under the Municipal Modernization Program.

10.2.3 – Approval of Funding Agreement – Provincial Gas Tax.
By-law 2020 – 7033.
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.

10.2.4 – Ontario’s Main Street Revitalization Initiative Transfer Payment Agreement Amendment.
By-law 2020 – 7034.
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of an Amended Municipal Funding Agreement with the Association of Municipalities of Ontario for Ontario’s Main Street Revitalization Initiative.

10.4.1 – Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/20/01 – Additional Unit Amendment (Town of Parry Sound).
By-Law 2020 – 7035.
Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for Additional Dwelling Units (Town of Parry Sound).

10.4.2 – Mutual Assistance Agreement.
By-law 2020 – 7038.
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of an agreement with the Township of Carling, the Municipality of McDougall, the Township of McKellar, the Town of Parry Sound, the Township of Seguin, the Township of The Archipelago and the Municipality of Whitestone for a Mutual Assistance Agreement for a ten (10) year term.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – March 3, 2020

06 Friday Mar 2020

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It seems that councillors were on Spring Break this week with only 4 members present. The agenda was light and there were no surprises. A few notes:

5.1 – OPP Billing Model.
There is a nice summary of the presentation provided in the minutes and is worth reviewing to understand why police protection costs us $2 million per year or 20% of our individual tax bills. It would be nice if people were a little more honest and honourable. It would save me over $1,000 a year, or $500 if they were only half as honest.

9.1.1 – Water & Wastewater Rate Study.
It looks as though water bills will go up by an amount equal to inflation, probably a 2-3% increase.

9.1.2 – Tender Award – New Reception Desk.
The $60,000 reception desk was approved. Be sure to drop by and admire it when it is completed. Your tax dollars at work.

Closed Session
e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board, (claim against the municipality);
f) advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose, (Agreement for services) (claim against the municipality);
n) educating or training council members and no member discusses or otherwise deals with any matter in a way that materially advances the business or decision-making of Council, (Water and Wastewater Rate Structures).

Public Meeting
2.1 Municipal Zoning By-law Amendment – Additional Dwelling Units
Council held a public meeting to consider a proposed Zoning By-law amendment under Section 34 of the Planning Act, as amended. After the Mayor adjourned the regular meeting and declared the public meeting open, the Clerk advised that notice was given by prepaid first-class mail to the required prescribed agencies, posted in the newspaper, and was placed on the Town’s website.
Manager of Planning & Building Services Taylor Elgie advised that the proposed Zoning By-Law amendment would permit secondary residential units within single detached, semi-detached and townhouse dwellings, and within ancillary units (i.e. garages) to these forms of residences. Mr. Elgie noted that this is following Provincial direction per Section 16(3) of the Planning Act and is a Town wide initiative and applies to Residential Zones.
No one spoke, and no letters had been received either in favour of, nor in opposition to the proposed zoning by-law amendment.
The Deputy 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 Cllr. McCann’s inquiry regarding a watermain break last week on Cedar Street, Director of Public Works Mike Kearns reported that there were 2 watermain breaks within 2 weeks in that area, and that such events are not uncommon in particularly cold weather given the type of pipe, being cast iron which is a brittle inflexible pipe and if exposed to movement through frost heaving, will crack. Mr. Kearns said that he was not aware of a particular problem in that area, and that both issues were repaired very quickly.

3.2.2 – In response to Councillor Borneman’s inquiry about what might be done to reduce instances of vehicles proceeding without stopping through intersections at Isabella-Gibson and Mary-Miller, Director of Public Works Mike Kearns reported that the Isabella-Gibson intersection is well signed, with lights flashing. From an enforcement standpoint regarding a stop sign, someone must witness the drive through; red light cameras will not work as they are tied to the signalization of traffic lights, and there is uncertainty as to admissibility of video evidence in court. Mr. Kearns suggested the best course of action is continued education of the public about the importance of maintaining safety at the crosswalks for all users.

3.2.3 – Director of Public Works Mike Kearns agreed with Councillor Keith’s suggestion to promote the importance of stopping and safety at these intersections through putting notices in the next Town newsletter and on the Town website and indicated that the OPP might also have advice on best prevention practices

Deputations
5.1 – Sergeant Kelly Withrow and Staff Sgt. Jeremy McDonald. OPP Billing Model.
Sgt. Kelly Withrow of the OPP Municipal Policing Bureau addressed Council from a prepared powerpoint presentation about the OPP municipal policing billing model.
Sgt. Withrow reported that in 2019 the Province provided the OPP with a provincial policing budget of $1.174 billion; 64% ($752.7 million) was the provincial responsibility provided at no cost recovery to the municipality, and 35% ($409.6 million) was the municipal policing resource provided with costs recovered from municipalities.
The provincial responsibility includes: Traffic Safety – aircraft enforcement, provincial traffic safety program, snowmobile all-terrain vessel enforcement, waterways and King’s highway; Investigations – criminal investigations, child sexual exploitation investigations, anti-rackets, organized crime, investigation and support; Intelligence – covert operations, provincial anti-terrorism and hate crimes, analysis and information, field intelligence; Specialized Response Teams – tactical emergency medical services, aviation services, canine unit, emergency response team, negotiations, tactics and rescue unit, underwater search and recovery unit, urban chemical response team; Auxiliary Policing; Community Safety; Unincorporated Territory; Indigenous Policing.
The municipal policing resources with costs recovered from municipalities includes Detachment Staff – supervision, frontline constables, civilian administrative and support; Support Positions – communication operators, prisoner guards, provincial police academy and in-service training, uniform recruitment, municipal policing bureau, quality assurance, forensic identification, IT and telephone support, regional headquarters.
Sgt. Withrow reported that in 2012, the Auditor General, upon receiving complaints about the then-OPP billing model as confusing and unfair, formed a team to investigate which concluded the same and made recommendations to the OPP with respect to creating a fairer and more transparent billing model. The recommendations suggested seeking ways to: simplify and make more transparent the cost recovery methods; address issues in costing and billing methods that result in municipalities paying different rates; and consider a policy that identifies services provided to support municipal police forces and the proportion to be recovered.
Sgt. Withrow noted that between 2012 and 2015, through an extensive consultation process, a new billing model was created based on the recommendations. Implemented in 2015, the new billing model has municipalities paying the same cost per property; and the model is made transparent through outreach at conferences, webinars, annual call for service billing summary report, meetings, and on the http://www.opp.ca/billingmodel site.
Sgt. Withrow reported that the 2020 budgeted cost recovery is $411.7 million divided into three sections. The first, at $210.8 million is for base services – crime prevention, officer training, administrative duty – allocated among municipalities on an equal per property basis of $183.23/property based on over 1,150,000 properties in Ontario; the second, at $162.8 million is calls for service (CFS) – crime calls (assaults, break & enter, etc.), provincial statutes (e.g. Trespass to Property Act), motor vehicle collisions, general calls for service (lost property, missing person, etc.) – charged to municipalities according to their usage (% of provincial CFS cost); and the third at $38 million are other costs allocated directly to municipalities based on contract arrangements and usage; i.e. overtime, court security, prisoner transportation, accommodation/cleaning and enhancements.
For greater clarity, Calls for Service (CFS) costs per municipality is based on usage percentage of the $162.8 million budget over most recent 4-year average. CFS are divided into nine categories for which an hourly time standard is developed for each of the nine types of service call.
With respect to the third category of other costs at $38 million, Sgt. Withrow reported that municipalities which have a court in their municipality, pay for court security;
prisoner transportation is recovered on a basis of $1.99 per property; accommodation and cleaning is recovered on a basis of $4.78/property if it is provided by the OPP; enhancements – for example a dedicated officer in a school – include costs which must be recovered at 100%.
Sgt. Withrow reviewed the estimated costs of Parry Sound’s 2020 Annual Billing Statement based on the different categories and rates as previously described, which results in a total billing for 2020 of $2,088,667 or $174,056 monthly.
Sgt. Withrow noted that each billing is an estimate for the year, and that year-end adjustments for over or under-estimates are reflected in the next billing year. Sgt. Withrow reviewed annual billing comparisons from 2015 to 2020 for all of Ontario municipalities, noting the slight reduction in per unit costs as a result of more municipalities contracting with the OPP for services. Sgt. Withrow reviewed the Town of Parry Sound’s specific billing estimate for 2020 Calls for Service, showing the calculations that result in the Town’s 0.8097% of the provincial total costs.
In response to Councillor queries, Sgt. Withrow clarified the following issues:
– calls for service: if a call was received regarding a break & enter, and OPP patrols found 20 other issues, the calls for service would still be tabulated at one;
– a call for service that deals with multiple issues is considered one call in the highest respective reporting category;
– on-line reporting does not count as a call for service;
– there are court security grants available to offset court security costs which financially burden only those municipalities which have courts within their jurisdiction,

5.2 – David Sweetnam, Executive Director, Georgian Bay Forever (GBF). Georgian Bay Forever update and request for support for Seabins.
Executive Director David Sweetnam of Georgian Bay Forever (GBF) addressed Council with an update on the Divert & Capture program since March, 2018, including the following:
– in the first collection of microplastics/fibres from 70 volunteer households, 7 kgs of fibres or close to 3 million microfibres was diverted;
– all 100 filters are now installed and an additional 100 will be installed;
– effluent from the wastewater treatment plant shows a decrease of approximately 10% in microfibres, roughly equivalent to the percentage of Parry Sound households included in the project;
– 13 shoreline cleanups were conducted in 2019 with over 1,200 lbs of garbage removed from coastal shorelines; as the majority is dock foam, future projects contemplated will look at how to avoid this source of pollution;
– educated over 1,000 individuals through workshops and presentations.
With the positive results of microfibre/plastic diversion, Mr. Sweetnam reported that GBF is advocating at all levels of government that manufacturers be required to install filters at time of washing machine production, instead of installing after market.
Mr. Sweetnam noted that GBF has researched and is promoting another technology/product called the Seabin which is essentially a trash skimmer, designed to be installed in the water of marinas, and any water body with a calm environment and suitable services available. Mr. Sweetnam reported that a number are being purchased for Georgian Bay locations and he suggested that the Seabin provides an educational opportunity if located and working at the Town Dock for example, with accompanying educational signage aimed at reducing pollution thrown into the water. As they are expensive to purchase, Mr. Sweetnam reported that GBF is applying for a grant for purchase and requested that the Town provide a letter of support for the application. In addition, once installed, Mr. Sweetnam requested that the Town consider providing on- going maintenance, such as providing electricity to run the pump for the Seabin and assist in making the public aware, through the Town’s communication devices such as Town newsletters, website, etc. communication.
In response to Councillor queries, Mr. Sweetnam noted that the pore size of the Seabin material does not negatively impact or trap microorganisms; algae would flow right through. This will be the first year that Seabins are used in this area, with marinas in Pointe au Baril installing units as well as the City of Toronto with 10 planned, and Collingwood and The Archipelago also considering sites and installation.

Consent Agenda
8.1 – Public Health Funding. Resolution.
That Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound supports the Township of Strong’s resolution requesting that public health be funded through regular provincial taxation, not municipal property taxation, per the following:
Whereas the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit has advised municipalities of the following changes in the funding formula:
• change from 25/75 municipal/provincial to 30/70 for mandatory programs, and; 10
• change from 100% provincial funding to 30/70 for a number of other related programs;
And Whereas these changes will result in a 42% increase in the municipal levy, commencing in 2021, with no increased service delivery;
And Whereas small rural Northern Ontario municipalities do not have the financial resources to fund this 42% increase due to:
• sparse populations and small tax bases making it difficult to raise the requisite funds, and also provide core mandated municipal services to residents; and
• residents’ annual income being well below the provincial poverty level, with many on fixed incomes and raising municipal property taxes will create significant hardship;
hence, the Town of Parry Sound states that it requests the Corporation remain under the auspices of the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit, and under the Rural & Northern Ontario designation;
And Whereas the Province of Ontario is currently reviewing the mandate and operations of Public Health Units;
Therefore be it resolved that the Town of Parry Sound requests that Jim Pine, Facilitator of the Public Health Modernization consultations, review the current funding formula for Public Health and Rural & Northern Ontario municipalities; proposing exemptions, for the province to implement for 2021;
And that the Town of Parry Sound contends that Public Health, as a pillar of our Ontario Health Care system, be funded through regular provincial taxation, not municipal property taxation;
And Further That this resolution be distributed to all 22 Municipalities in the District of Parry Sound for endorsement with copies forwarded to the Minister of Health, Minister of Long Term Care, MPP Norm Miller, MPP Vic Fedeli, Ontario Health Board Chair, FONOM Chair, NOMA Chair, AMO Chair, and the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit. Carried

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – Water & Wastewater Rate Study. Resolution 2020
WHEREAS the water and wastewater rates enacted by By-law 2012-6091 for the year 2020 are expected to adequately recover necessary operating and capital related expenditures for water and wastewater in 2020,
NOW THEREFORE Council hereby confirms the water and wastewater rates as enacted by By-law 2012-6091 for 2020; and further
THAT pricing structure changes be deferred for a staff report and recommendation on additional pricing structures for consideration of updated rates for 2021. Carried

9.1.2 – Tender Award – New Reception Desk. Resolution.
That upon the recommendation of Brenda Ryan, FAD Architects, Council award the tender for the New Reception Desk (Front Counter Redesign) to CFC Contracting Inc., in the amount of $51,939 plus HST, this tender being the lowest of three (3) tenders received. Carried

9.3.1 – Consent Application – B 02/2020 (PS) (Wylie). Resolution.
That a decision on Consent Application No. B 02/2020 (PS) (Wylie) be approved subject to a condition of consent:
That the retained lot ensure compliance with the Zoning By-law as a result of the reduced frontage, or that the severed lot be realigned to ensure no road frontage is reduced. Carried

By-laws
10.3.1 – Site Plan Application S19/05 – Microsuite Properties Ltd. (Church Street). By-Law 2020 – 7020
Being a By-law to authorize a Site Plan / Development Agreement with Microsuite Properties Ltd. (Church Street – S19/05). Passed, Signed & Sealed.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – February 18, 2020

21 Friday Feb 2020

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The meeting provided no surprises. It’s worth looking at the deputation summaries to get a better idea of what was presented. It’s quicker than watching the streamed meeting live or on YouTube. Some comments:

  1. It seems that the Closed Session discussion about staffing had nothing to do with senior leadership but rather was approval for a full-time position at the Stockey Centre (Item 7.1).
  2. The Strategic Plan was approved (Item 9.4.1). If you draft a plan that no one bothers to read or follow and has no real accountability, does it really qualify as a plan? This plan could have been put together with a simple listing of the results of a SurveyMonkey poll. (It’s a bit of a shame that we apparently don’t have enough picturesque scenes of our own town and are required to ‘borrow’.)
  3. The Connor Industries rezoning was approved (Item 10.3.1).
  4. The rezoning required to allow the French School to move into the Mall was approved (Item 10.3.2). Let’s see if the Mall folks can get their act together. Development of the apartments seem to have stalled for the past couple of years. (These are the same folks who purchased and are currently renovating the Whitfield.)

Closed Session
d) labour relations or employee negotiations, (new staff position); Carried

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiry regarding issues affecting the quality of roads over the past few days, Director of Public Works Mike Kearns reported that the timing of the snowfall after the start of the business day today complicated the plowing process with the amount of traffic and parking already occurring. With respect to the past long weekend, staff were out on all days except one and stayed on top of the issues with the limited staff resources available.

Correspondence
4.1 – Ken & Geraldine Cribbie. Concerns with base water charges applied on metered water. (Editor’s Note – no action noted in minutes)

4.2 – Danny Whalen, President FONOM. Invitation to attend May 13-15 2020 FONOM Conference in Timmins.
Direction. That staff be directed to apply to FONOM to host the conference in Parry Sound within the next couple of years. Carried

Deputations
5.1 – Linda Taylor, Program Director, WPSD Community Support Services. Community Support Services and 2020 Budget Request.
Linda Taylor, Program Director of the West Parry Sound District Community Support Services (CSS) addressed Council regarding the services provided including Meals on Wheels supporting 240 clients and delivering 11,600 meals in 2019; Volunteer Transportation; Diners Club; Senior Safekeeping; Lunch and Learn; Friendly Visiting; Adopt-a-Senior and Seniors’ Exercise Program. Ms. Taylor noted that program funding is provided by the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care through the Northeast Local Health Integration Network (LHIN), and user fees for some services. Ms. Taylor reported that services are at user fee capacity, with seniors on limited fixed incomes finding it difficult to cover all costs. Therefore Ms. Taylor noted that CSS is hoping to fundraise $20,000 this year; have raised $11,000 so far and is requesting $2,000 from the Town of Parry Sound.
Councillor McCann commended the work of CSS and initiated the following motion. That the $2,000 request from Community Support Services be added to the 2020 budget for consideration. Carried

5.2 – Zack Crafts & Emma Kitchen. Pedestrian/Cyclist Safety Concerns on Isabella St at Wood St.
Zack Crafts addressed Council regarding pedestrian and cyclist safety at Wood and Isabella Streets, illustrating his concerns with an example of the Isabella Street route a grade one student would take along the sidewalks and streets from Parry Sound Public School to Victoria Ave. Mr. Crafts noted that snow, lack of light, and tandem salt trucks, especially when travelling during busy morning traffic periods heighten the safety concerns. Mr. Crafts requested Council consider means to make travel safe in that area, emphasizing that in our modern society active transportation is key, and that “we have to be able to get around in this town, without using a motor vehicle.”
Mayor McGarvey said that a good portion of property in that vicinity is owned by CN and CP with their own infrastructure in place, making it challenging for the Town to unilaterally make changes, and he requested that Director of Public Works Mike Kearns first investigate and find out where we are at with the two railway companies.
Councillor Horne said that he lives on Salt Dock Road and sees that with the growth in condos in that area and increasing foot and bicycle traffic, there needs to be an evaluation done all the way down Salt Dock Road with respect to bike lanes and sidewalks.
Councillor McCann queried whether there might be an arched pedestrian and cycle bridge built over the double tracks to which Councillor Borneman responded that there was a similar investigation done some years ago with a cost estimate at about $1 million with the remaining problem that the needed property for installation is privately owned.
The Mayor proposed direction to which all members of Council raised their hands in support, that the Director of Public Works provide Council with a report on the whole area (Isabella at the tracks through to the Salt Docks) with respect to improving road safety. Added to the approved direction was a request that a cost estimate be provided.

5.3 – Lis McWalter. West Parry Sound Smart.
Liz McWalter addressed Council from a prepared powerpoint presentation with respect to the background and current projects of West Parry Sound SMART. Ms. McWalter noted that the organization originated from the Regional Economic Development Advisory Committee (REDAC), formed as a not-for-profit in 2015, is made up of volunteers with a membership of 24 and 50% of membership according to Corporation by-laws are employed in the public sector. Ms. McWalter noted that the mandate is to focus on building high speed internet capacity, fundraising and advocacy.
Ms. McWalter noted that the Town is well served with high speed internet; however once outside the Town, problems exist as a result of physical barriers such as rocks, trees, lakes and wetlands, old copper telephone connectivity, no fibre trunk access, and distance to sparsely populated communities. As an example. Ms. McWalter reported that to get optical fiber 20 kms to the Industrial Park, a cost quote provided a couple of years ago was $2.5 to 4 million.
Ms. McWalter reported that last spring CENGN (Centre for Excellence in Next Generation Networks) issued Expression of Interest calls for two streams – community and technology; i.e. an ISP or communication equipment manufacturer. The West Parry Sound Area was selected as the community, and of five technology vendors who submitted, Vianet was selected. Outside of the CENGN initiative, SMART had acquired access to an existing 200′ tower near the old MNR Forest Fire Watch Tower in Parry Sound, now owned by the Township of the Archipelago. This provided the point of presence (POP) for WPS SMART who was working with Vianet to do something with the tower – now called the SMART Tower.
Ms. McWalter reported that Bayview Subdivision in Carling, a community of 250 homes was then selected as the community to be served by fiber from a secondary tower that would be built in Carling and served by the SMART Tower. CENGN is looking at this as a pilot project that if successful can be replicated throughout rural Ontario.
Ms. McWalter reported that this proposal of multiple micro-wave links seems a viable approach to reach many underserved; and that the Carling location opens up possibilities to feed other communities with fiber, install fiber to the home and fixed wireless. Benefits include a lower cost at approximately $500,000 per 1 tower project, accelerated plan and build plans, builds on skills of experienced rural ISP, investments can be made incrementally and enables fiber to the home for some. Ms. McWalter noted that the secondary tower in Carling makes it possible to get to the Industrial Park, and from there to Pointe au Baril and from the Industrial Park to McKellar and then to Whitestone. The SMART Tower can also access Seguin.
With respect to the tower builds, they are subject to Industry Canada rules with respect to structure and notification, and Transport Canada with respect to tower lighting and painting.
Ms. McWalter noted that WPS SMART is interested in municipal assistance with respect to acquiring suitable public land, supporting the public notification process, providing permits, funding support, and to help address dependencies.
Ms. McWalter responded to an inquiry regarding whether tower costs might be subsidized by contracts with tenants on each tower, saying that it is viable, but can depend on what the owner of the Tower wants.

Ratification of Matters from Closed Agenda
7.1 – Resolution. That Council direct staff to eliminate the contract position and establish a full-time complement position of Technical Director at the Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts. Carried

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.4.1 – 2020-2030 Strategic Plan.
Resolution (as brought forward from the February 4, 2020 meeting: The Council for the Town of Parry Sound approve the 2020 – 2030 Strategic Plan substantially in the form attached as Schedule A. The following amendment to the revised version of the Plan circulated with the agenda was made:
That the Quality of Life Strategic Goal be revised to include the word ‘play’; i.e. Parry Sound is a great place to live, work, play, invest and grow. Carried
That the revised Strategic Plan as circulated with the agenda and amended with the word ‘play’ replace the Strategic Plan attached as Schedule A to the postponed resolution under consideration. Carried
To approve the 2020 – 2030 Strategic Plan substantially in the form attached as Schedule A as amended. Carried as amended

9.4.2 – 2019 Economic Development Report.
Economic Development Officer Vladimir Shehovtsov addressed Council from a prepared powerpoint presentation outlining key economic development initiatives and events undertaken in 2019 including familiarization tours, tradeshows and events, investment attraction, cruise industry, film industry and community building events as well as 2020 investment attraction projects.
Resolution. That the 2019 Economic Development Report be received for information purposes. Carried

By-laws
10.3.1 – Site Plan Application S19/07 – 81 North Tudhope (Connor Industries)
By-Law 2020 – 7016. Being a By-law to authorize a Site Plan / Development Agreement with 2282722 Ontario Ltd. – Connor Industries (81 North Tudhope Street). Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.3.2 – Rezoning Application – Z/19/17 – 70 Joseph Street (Conseil scolaire public du Nord-Est de l’Ontario/Parry Sound Mall Inc.).
By-law 2020 – 7017. Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for 70 Joseph Street (Conseil scolaire public du Nord-Est de l’Ontario/Parry Sound Mall Inc.). Passed, Signed & Sealed

Council Agenda Preview – February 18, 2020

15 Saturday Feb 2020

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This coming week’s council meeting sees an even shorter list of agenda items. The key items are:

  1. New staff position (Closed Session d). My sense is that the Town is starting to recognize that it is getting a bit ‘thin’ at the management level and which is also  becoming obvious to the public.
  2. The Strategic Plan is up for formal acceptance (Item 9.4.1). The agenda package includes a response to the comments received regarding the strategic plan. The strategic plan can be summarized as follows. More of the same with higher taxes and an environmental emoticon for good measure. Sigh! Strategic plans are hard to do and require lots of work. I guess it’s “good enough”. The Town intends to do tomorrow what it did yesterday but happy to realize that that the results will at best be no better than yesterday, with a risk of being worse.
  3. The economic development officer on 2019 accomplishments and plans for 2020. (Item 9.4.2). For the most part his activities have been focused on light industrial investment which is more appropriate for regional (Business Park – Carling) rather than urban development. That’s okay, I guess. He needs strategic direction from Council on Town objectives and timelines. The biggest economic development opportunities for the Town proper are related to services (housing, medical, dental, legal, social, food, business to business, and craft type services). These don’t seem to be the focus of the economic development officer’s activities as per his report
  4. Connor industries is planning a major expansion to their manufacturing facility that requires site plan approval (Item 10.3.1). This is one of the only light industrial businesses in Town and the expansion represents a positive step. Council will approved this.
  5. Rezoning to permit the French School to move into the mall for the 2020/21 school year (Item 10.3.2). The recommendation is that Council approve the requested rezoning and it will be approved. In the end there was no reason for Council to have taken the aggressive posture they adopted in August, except perhaps to curry favour with the coalition who were against the school for a variety of reasons.

Closed Session
d) labour relations or employee negotiations, (new staff position);

Correspondence
4.1 – Ken & Geraldine Cribbie. Concerns with base water charges applied on metered water.

4.2 – Danny Whalen, President FONOM. Invitation to attend May 15-18, 2020 FONOM Conference in Timmins

Deputations
5.1 – Linda Taylor, Program Director, WPSD Community Support Services. Community Support Services and 2020 Budget Request.

5.2 – Zack Crafts & Emma Kitchen. Pedestrian/Cyclist Safety Concerns on Isabella St at Wood St.

5.3 – Lis McWalter. West Parry Sound Smart.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.4.1 – 2020-2030 Strategic Plan. Resolution. The Council for the Town of Parry Sound approve the 2020 – 2030 Strategic Plan substantially in the form as attached as Schedule A.

9.4.2 – 2019 Economic Development Report . Resolution. That the 2019 Economic Development Report be received for information purposes.

By-laws
10.3.1 – Site Plan Application S19/07 – 81 North Tudhope (Connor Industries).
By-Law 2020 – 7016. Being a By-law to authorize a Site Plan / Development Agreement with 2282722 Ontario Ltd. – Connor Industries (81 North Tudhope Street)

10.3.2 – Rezoning Application – Z/19/17 – 70 Joseph Street (Conseil scolaire public du Nord-Est de l’Ontario/Parry Sound Mall Inc.).
By-law 2020 – 7017. Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for 70 Joseph Street (Conseil scolaire public du Nord-Est de l’Ontario/Parry Sound Mall Inc.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – February 4, 2020

10 Monday Feb 2020

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The more important notes from last week’s meeting of Town of Parry Sound Council included:

  1. It seems that the French school will be moving into the Mall on the north end for a couple of years starting next fall. There was no spoken or written opposition to the proposed zoning amendment required to permit the relocation. This should permit Canadore to return to operations as usual. I wonder what that will mean. (Public Meeting)
  2. The draft budget was light on details but there was a suggestion that the rate increase would be less than the rate of inflation. I’ll wait to see the actual budget document before offering additional comments. (Item 9.1.1)
  3. The Strategic Plan was briefly discussed and was left open pending comments from the Public. I remain unimpressed by the document in the way it seems to offer everything and nothing; a typical political statement. Prioritization seems to be an unknown concept. Public input has been requested. I will doubtless get myself into trouble by appearing to lecture Staff and Council about strategic plans with my written comments. Remember – they are playing with our tax dollars. It’s much easier to get up in the morning and see what the day brings rather than plan what you will do the night before. (Item 9.4.1)

Public Meeting
2.1 Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/17 – 70 Joseph Street (Conseil scolaire public du Nord-Est de l’Ontario) to amend the C5 zone to permit a School.

Manager of Planning & Building Services Taylor Elgie advised that the proposed Zoning By-Law amendment would amend the C5 zone to permit a School. An elementary school is proposed to be located in the south western corner of a vacant unit in the Parry Sound Mall at 70 Joseph Street.

Mr. Simon Fecteau, Director of Education for the Conseil scolaire public du Nord-Est de l’Ontario responded to the Mayor’s invitation to speak in favour of the proposed Zoning By-law amendment. Mr. Fecteau noted that the request for a French Public School came through two years ago from parents in the Parry Sound community. Currently there are about 40 registered students from J-K to Grade 7, and 8 full-time staff members at the temporary accommodations located at Canadore College. Mr. Fecteau noted that the number of students is anticipated to grow in the coming years and that until a permanent solution is provided by the Ministry of Education, the Board is looking at other temporary accommodations. Mr. Fecteau reported that the Board believes the southwest section of Parry Sound Mall where Harvest Church has been located is suitable, with separate girls’ and boys’ washrooms, and at 9,000 square feet has sufficient space to support 5 classrooms, a small gym, and office and administrative space. The school will have its own separate entrance at the back with a fenced-in play area outside also at the back.
Mr. Fecteau noted that the Board has submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Education for funds to build a more permanent location in the future, and that they are looking at the Mall option for 2-3 years, signing a 3-year lease with the possibility of shortening it. Mr. Fecteau said that the Board has heard that some members of the community may be concerned with students at the mall, but he reiterated that there the school section has a separate entrance door; there is a locked door that exits into the mall used for emergency evacuation only.
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 snow clearing, Public Works Director Mike Kearns reported that as he has just started in his new position, he expects that the snow removal is status quo; he has made general inquiries as to how things are prioritized and the process used regarding snow removal and he’ll be looking at what works best.
3.2.2 – In response to Councillor McCann’s inquiry regarding what one does to get additional street lighting in an area such as Queen Street where when one of the street- lights burns out, it is quite dark, Mr. Kearns reported that he would start by looking at what is available, and whether there are alternative ways to illuminate the area. Depending upon what in-ground infrastructure is available and whether there are agreements with utility owners to use the poles, Mr. Kearns noted that a single streetlight can result in a lot of work and expense.
3.2.3 – In response to Councillor Backman’s inquiry regarding an upcoming Film Festival at the Stockey Centre, Marketing Coordinator Kelsey Norris reported that Stockey Centre staff is working with Leslie Mapstone of Mapstone Media to put together a 3-day Film Festival, seeking submissions throughout Canada and internationally. While the process is in early development, the Stockey Centre has put out information to “save the date” and will follow-up with more information as it becomes available.
3.2.4 – In response to Councillor Backman’s inquiry as to whether the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame (BOHF) Gift Shop renovation has had an impact on sales, BOHF Curator Caitlin Dyer reported that as the renovation was done in 2019, it is difficult to determine the impact without a full year cycle to compare to. Ms. Dyer suggested that a review done after the completion of 2020 sales would provide a better measure of comparison of one full year after the renovation. Ms. Dyer did note that there have been many positive comments from the community and returning patrons on how much more inviting the space is.

Correspondence
4.1a – Minister Todd Smith, Ministry of Children, Community & Social Services. Public consultations regarding new five-year strategy on poverty reduction.
4.1b – Minister Todd Smith, Ministry of Children, Community & Social Services. On-line survey available at Ontario.ca/povertysurvey until March 30, 2020 regarding new five-year strategy on poverty reduction.
Both items circulated to Mayor & Council and filed.
4.2 – Zach Crafts, Emma Kitchen. Request for road widening and inclusion of sidewalk and a bicycle lane on Isabella Street at Wood Street to address safety concerns.
Circulated to Mayor & Council, and Director of Public Works for response.
4.3 – Joe Beleskey. Water drainage issues at 7 Edward Street. Referred to Director of Public Works.
Circulated to Mayor & Council, and Director of Public Works for response.
4.4 – Dan DiNicolo, President, Parry Sound Area Chamber of Commerce. Summary of 2019 Activities as background to the Chamber of Commerce’s request for 2020 funding.
Circulated to Mayor & Council, and Director of Finance to bring forward for 2020 budget.

Deputations
5.1 – Nadine Hammond, Curator/Manager, The Museum on Tower Hill. The Museum on Tower Hill 2020 funding request.
Ms. Hammond addressed Council with appreciation for funding in 2019, noting the exhibitions and programs that it supported. Ms. Hammond reported that the most notable achievement in 2019 was the installation of the model Ottawa Arnprior & Parry Sound Railway, scheduled for completion this year. Ms. Hammond reported on other anticipated exhibits such as a year-long logging exhibition and short run exhibitions.
Ms. Hammond played a short video showing the locations where visitors to the Museum in 2019 came from, illustrating that museums are an important part of tourism. Ms. Hammond noted that in 2020 the museum would be looking at its sustainability through repairs, upgrades, and maintaining or increasing resources.
In response to Councillor inquiries, Ms. Hammond reported that provincial and federal funding is dependent upon what they apply for, noting that every year they receive a CMOG (Community Museum Operating Grant). They’ve applied for a Trillium Grant for capital work last year, have applied and received a Seed Grant this year, receive NOHFC funding, and will be applying to Cultural Spaces funds to complete a feasibility study on the building. Ms. Hammond reported that some of the funding is project based, so it can depend on what projects are being worked on.
Ms. Hammond noted that the train installation is taking as long as this year, since the model is 10′ longer than anticipated from the detailed drawings, there is additional electrical work needed to meet fire safety codes, and because the track itself is electrified, protective glass needs to be installed to protect the artifact and viewers. In addition, the rest of the exhibit space needs to be restored to standard.
Ms. Hammond noted that due to a lack of storage space as a result of renovations to the Gallery, and with a new approach called “selective collecting”, the museum is selective in accepting donations at this time.
With respect to 2020 exhibits, Ms. Hammond reported that the “What’s New” exhibit is on and will be shut down soon, with the Avro Arrow exhibit opening on February 20th. At the beginning of March will be a logging exhibition set to run for the rest of the year; a train exhibit with images from across Canada will run for the rest of the year; starting in the summer will be an exhibit highlighting “the seedy underbelly of Parry Sound”, followed by “Christmas during the war” exhibit.
With respect to charitable status, Ms. Hammond reported that the Museum is a registered charity and that people can donate by cheque sent or given in person and made out to the West Parry Sound District Museum; donations over $25.00 are eligible for a tax receipt.
5.2 – Laurie Del Net, Executive Director, Parry Sound Area Chamber of Commerce. Chamber of Commerce 2020 Funding request – to be rescheduled.
5.3 – Dave Brunton, Linda West, President, Rotary Club of Parry Sound. Rotary 3-pitch Strikes Against Cancer.
Dave Brunton, past President of the Rotary Club and Linda West, current President, addressed Council from a prepared power point presentation with respect to the funds raised and various projects undertaken by the Rotary Club. Mr. Brunton noted that, in acknowledging the service provided by the Club in the West Parry Sound Area, and the support given the Club within the West Parry Sound Area, the membership has renamed the Club as the Rotary Club of West Parry Sound.
Mr. Brunton offered thanks for past support, and in particular acknowledged Manager of Parks & Recreation April McNamara and staff for assistance last year in Rotary’s first year operating the Annual Rotary Strikes Against Cancer 3-Pitch Tournament. Mr. Brunton provided an overview of last year’s event.
Ms. West and Mr. Brunton reported on other Rotary donations which received matching grants from Rotary International, including a total of $6,000 each towards the Museum’s model train installation, and the shade structure at the Parry Sound Public School. in 2019 Rotary donated: $2,500 to Strings Across the Sky; $3,000 towards the international End Polio Now program (multiplied to a total of $9,000 by Bill Gates); Christmas hampers for 100 Families, (in partnership with the Salvation Army); $40,000 towards Inspired Filmmaking, a project which will tell the stories of World War II vets and retain $22,000 worth of equipment; and $25,000 towards the Salvation Army’s emergency response vehicle.
Ms. West also reported that the need for mobility devices is increasing, and Rotary Club works with social services and other agencies to help fund the 25% cost required privately.
Ms. West noted that in 2019, Rotary donated $20,000 towards cancer care equipment, and that the Rotary 3-Pitch Tournament helps fund this donation. Ms. West and Mr. Brunton provided information on the sponsorship opportunities and features of the June 19-20 event this year, including the entertainment, fish dinner, and silent auction. Registration opens on February 13th at 9 AM at ps3pitch.com, and the first 31 teams to register with fee will secure a spot. In response to a Councillor inquiry, Ms. West confirmed that donations can be made at ps3pitch.com, or given to any Rotary member, and are eligible for a tax receipt.
Councillor McCann requested of Council that the donation request be referred to the budget process, and Mayor McGarvey responded that it would be, and as has been provided in the past, likely considered in the context of services-in-kind.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – Draft 2020 Operating Budget. Resolution.
That the staff report, 2020 Draft Budget Package and presentation be received for information purposes. Carried
9.4.1 – Accessibility Advisory Committee Establishment & Terms of Reference. Resolution.
That Council authorizes the establishment of an Accessibility Advisory Committee according to the Terms of Reference attached as Schedule A and directs staff to advertise for members. Carried
9.4.2 – 2020-2030 Strategic Plan. Resolution.
The Council for the Town of Parry Sound approve the 2020 – 2030 Strategic Plan substantially in the form as attached as Schedule A. (see later resolution to postpone consideration of approving the Strategic Plan)
Prior to voting on the resolution, Redbrick Consultant Andrea Montgomery addressed Council from a prepared Powerpoint presentation outlining the process that was undertaken and highlights of the Strategic Plan document that is attached as Schedule A to the proposed resolution.
Individually, members of Council provided the following feedback for consideration in amendments:
– Re-write Vision as: “The jewel of Georgian Bay, a sustainable community focused on opportunity, growth and healthy living.”
– Add to Mission: the word “sustainable” before “and healthy future”
– encourage elaboration of the values of “collaboration, honesty, accountability, respect and transparency” as they are rolled out in the organization.
– Consider whether there is a way of tying in adult education housing/student residences with the first bullet point under section #4 of Economic Growth on page 7 which currently reads “Support more housing options for new and existing employees as part of business attraction and retention.”
– Suggested subtitle rewrite to “Quality of Life” on page 9: “Parry Sound is a great place to live, work, visit, invest and grow year-round.”
– Suggested rewrite of first bullet point under “Quality of Life” on page 9: “Develop a Master Recreation, Culture and Parks Plan that will assess and look …”
– Suggested tie-in of last bullet point under “Quality of Life” on page 9 with housing as previously mentioned under Economic Growth and which currently reads: “Advocate retaining post-secondary education in Parry Sound”.
– Suggested posting of values not only on website, but at all municipal centres such as the BOCC, and Stockey Centre.
– with respect to building in accountability of the Plan, it was noted that tangible short- term, mid-term, and long-term actionable items are developed as result of the Plan through separate staff Key Performance Objectives (KPOs) which are reviewed and approved.
The following motion to postpone the resolution was made. That the resolution to approve the 2020-2030 Strategic Plan be postponed to the next council meeting in order that the public has an opportunity to view and comment on it. Carried – to Postpone to February 18, 2020 Council Meeting

By-laws
10.4.1 – Department of Canadian Heritage – Canadian Arts Presentation Amendment to the Grant Agreement. By-law 2020 – 7014.
Being a by-law to authorize the execution of the amendment to the funding agreement with the Department of Canadian Heritage – Canadian Arts Presentation Fund – for Stockey Centre programming for the fiscal years 2018-2021. Passed, Signed and Sealed.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – January 21, 2020

26 Sunday Jan 2020

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There is little to comment on. The parking issue (10.3.2) was resolved and parking requirements were waived without additional payment. It seems that the required parking requirement was met but not within the exact terms defined in the existing regulations. Council chose to wave their wand and exempt the property owner from all requirements. I have no issue with their decision given the circumstances.

Closed Session
b) personal matter about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees, (Director of Finance 6 Month Review; Director of Public Works Employment Agreement)
d) labour relations or employee negotiations; (Director of Public Works Employment Agreement)

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiry regarding fire response rates in 2019, Director of Development & Protective Services Dave Thompson reported that at approximately 150 responses, the overall rate in 2019 was in line with responses in 2016 and prior years until more were experienced in 2017 and 2018. Mr. Thompson reported that EMS calls were also down across the district in 2019 by about 4-5%
With respect to the reason for the reduction, Mr. Thompson suggested that while there is a strong fire prevention program in place, the summer season has a large effect on brush fire activity, and last year wasn’t as conducive to brush fires.

Correspondence
4.1 – West Parry Sound Health Centre Auxiliary. Request for Tag Day – July 10, 2020 Covered under item 8.1.
4.2 – Lynne Atkinson. Request for Proclamation Feb 6 Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation. Covered under item 8.2.
4.3 Susan Hrycyna, Executive Director, PS Downtown Business Association. Resignation of Board member Amy Black. Covered under item 8.4.
4.4 – Lori West, Clerk, Township of McDougall Resolution rejecting Parry Sound District-wide Ontario Health Team. Circulated to Mayor & Council; filed.
4.5 – Karen Gerard, Deputy Clerk, Township of McKellar. Copy of letter to DSSAB rejecting Parry Sound District-wide Ontario Health Team. Circulated to Mayor & Council; filed.
4.6 – Erica Kellogg, Secretary, Almaguin Highlands Health Centre Committee. Res. 2020-03 requesting more information of DSSAB re: District-wide Ontario Health Team. Circulated to Mayor & Council; filed.
4.7 – Rita Orr, CEO; Tom Lundy, Chair, Parry Sound Public Library. 2020 Budget Request. Circulated to Mayor & Council and Director of Finance; filed.

Deputations
5.1 – Hartley Duncan, CEO Rita Orr, Chair Tom Lundy, Parry Sound Public Library. 2019 Annual Report and 2020 Funding request.
Prior to the showing of a 5-minute video commercial giving an overview of Parry Sound Public Library statistics and programs in 2019, Mr. Lundy thanked Council members on the Library Board for their support, thanked Library Staff for their work in expanding the work of the Library in 2019, and expressed the expectation of continued growth in 2020.
After the viewing of the commercial, https://youtu.be/4KNNyfo_KOo, the deponents responded to questions of members of Council.
(Resolution/Direction?) That the Parry Sound Public Library’s 2020 budget request letter be referred to the 2020 budget for Council’s deliberation. Carried

5.2 – Bill Mardimae, Gardens Retirement Developments Inc. Gardens Retirement proposed development.
The applicant Mr. Bill Mardimae reported that a 40 to 60-unit apartment building is being proposed next to the Gardens Retirement residence, with the only issue seemingly outstanding being parking. Mr. Mardimae indicated that he is in agreement to double the ratio of parking spots from 0.5 per unit to 1.0 per unit, and to increase the ratio of accessible parking spots from 1/30 to 2/30.
In response to Councillors’ inquiries, Mr. Mardimae reported that he hopes the development to be completed in one or two years, and that he is in discussions with Canadore College due to its proximity, about the potential for intergenerational housing accommodating both seniors and students.

5.3 Keith Smith. Handicapped parking spaces at The Gardens proposed new building.
Mr. Keith Smith addressed Council with background on his efforts at ensuring there are accessible parking spots dedicated to residents of The Gardens and advocated for an increased accessible parking ratio and dedication of those accessible spots to residents with respect to the new development proposed.
Mr. Smith reported that he wanted to see 10 complimentary reserved accessible parking spots at the proposed development. In addition, Mr. Smith suggested that with the number of seniors in the area, future retirement homes should have underground or covered parking to reduce incidents of slips, trips and falls on ice.

Ratification of Matters from Closed Agenda
7.1. – Employment Agreement Director of Public Works.
By-law 2020-7012. Being a By-law to authorize the execution of an Employment Agreement for the position of Director of Public Works. Passed, Signed & Sealed.

Consent Agenda
8.1 – West Parry Sound Health Centre Auxiliary Tag Day.
Resolution 2020 – 002. THAT Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound authorizes the West Parry Sound Health Centre Auxiliary to hold a tag day on July 10, 2020 for the purposes of fundraising. Carried

8.2 – International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation – Feb 6.
Resolution. Whereas International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is observed around the world and provides an opportunity to honour those women, girls, boys and men who are actively and courageously working towards an end to this harmful practice.
Whereas this day invites us to reflect on the fact that 3.9 million girls are still at risk of mutilation each year, including girls in Canada.
Whereas on this day, we acknowledge that female genital mutilation is an issue on every continent except Antarctica, and that there are 200 million FGM survivors in the world, including thousands in Canada.
Whereas we acknowledge that FGM has no basis in any religious text and is recognized by the United Nations and other world bodies as child abuse and an abuse of a girl’s fundamental human rights.
Whereas we acknowledge that FGM has no benefits and causes only harm, including death, difficulties with urination, menstruation, sexual intimacy, post-traumatic stress disorder and increased maternal and child mortality.
Whereas on this International Day of Zero Tolerance For FGM, we acknowledge and celebrate all national and international efforts being made, especially at the grass roots level, to achieve United Nations Sustainable Millennium Development Goal #5, which calls for the elimination of FGM and other harmful traditional practices by 2030.
Whereas on this Day of Zero Tolerance, we call for increased, concerted global and Canadian action to end female genital mutilation, and ask all governments-international, national, and local- to fully uphold the human rights of women and girls so they can live a life free from the violence that is female genital mutilation.
NOW THEREFORE the Town of Parry Sound Council does hereby proclaim February 6, 2020, as International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM in the Town of Parry Sound. Carried

8.3 – Declaration of Snowfest as event of Municipal Significance.
Resolution. THAT for purposes of obtaining a Special Occasions Permit, Council declares that the day-long Parry Sound Snowfest 2020 event scheduled on Sunday, February 16th, at 9 Bay Street Parry Sound is an Event of Municipal Significance. Carried

8.4 – Accept Resignations from DBA and Amend Appointing Resolution.
Resolution. That Council accepts the resignations from the Parry Sound Downtown Business Association Board of Dan DiNicolo (September 13, 2019) and Amy Black (January 13, 2020), and amends Resolution 2019 – 012 by removing their appointments to the Board. Carried

By-laws
10.3.1 – Rezoning Application – Z/19/14 – College Drive (M2 Developments Inc.).
By-Law 2019 – 6999 (for second and third reading). Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for Z/19/14 – 12 College Drive (M2 Developments Inc./Gardens of Parry Sound).
The following amendment was proposed:
That on page 3 of the By-law, the first paragraph be replaced with the following text:
“Despite Section 4.30 (n), 10% of all required parking spaces for any Retirement Resident or Retirement Residence – Special shall be accessible/barrier-free on the subject lands.” Amendment Defeated
The by-law as originally drafted was Passed Signed and Sealed.

10.1.1 – Tax Policies – Capping and New to Class/New Construction.
By-law 2020 – 7003. Being a bylaw to specify Tax Policies including: claw back percentage; capping threshold parameters; minimum tax level for new-to-class / new construction and to exclude certain properties from the capping program for the year 2020. Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.1.2 – Tax Ratios for 2020.
By-Law 2020 – 7004. Being a by-law to set Tax Ratios for Municipal purposes for the year 2020. Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.1.3 – Temporary Borrowing Authorization.
By-law 2020 – 7005. Being a by-law to authorize temporary borrowing to meet the current expenditures of the Town of Parry Sound until taxes are collected and other revenues are received. Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.2.1 – Adopt Memorandum of Understanding for the Integrated Community Energy and Climate Action Plan (ICECAP) collaborative.
Bylaw 2020 – 7006. Being a By-law to authorize the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding with area municipalities and First Nations located in the Georgian Bay Biosphere region for the purpose of a collaborative, more cost-effective approach to energy management and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Passed, Signed and Sealed.
Resolution 2020 – 006. THAT Council for the Town of Parry Sound appoints Councillor Paul Borneman to participate in the Federation of Canadian Municipalities / ICLEI – Partners for Climate Protection program as well as the Integrated Community Energy and Climate Action Plans (ICECAP) partnership. Carried

10.3.2 – Rezoning Application – Z/19/12 – 11 Miller Street (John Jackson Planner Inc. on behalf of Brian Moore).
By-Law 2020 – 7008. Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for 11 Miller Street (John Jackson Planner Inc. on behalf of Brian Moore). Defeated.
A new by-law was presented for Council’s consideration, that removed Section 2 (d) of By-law 2020-7008 which required cash-in-lieu of parking for any parking spaces for any residential development in excess of 10 dwelling units.
By-law 2020 – 7013. Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for 11 Miller Street (John Jackson Planner Inc. on behalf of Brian Moore). Passed, Signed and Sealed.
Resolution That the owner of 11 Miller Street be advised that cash-in-lieu of parking shall be required for the additional unit at a 2020 rate of $5,551 (per space) and that the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute any necessary cash-in-lieu of parking agreement for the subject property. Withdrawn.

10.3.3 – Pre-Consultation By-law for Planning Applications – Require applicants to discuss proposal with staff prior to an application.
By-Law 2020 – 7009. Being a By-law to require Pre-Consultation for certain Planning Applications and to delegate authority to determine certain application procedures. Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.3.4 – Rezoning Application – Z/19/16 – Macklaim and Dennis Avenue (Town of Parry Sound).
By-Law 2020 – 7010. Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for Macklaim Drive and Dennis Drive (Town of Parry Sound). Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.4.1 – Appointment of Deputy Clerk Clayton Harris.
By-law 2020 – 7007. Being a By-law to appoint Clayton Harris as Deputy Clerk in addition to his appointment as the Chief Administrative Officer and the Alternate Head under the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act for the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound. Passed, Signed and Sealed.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – December 17, 2019

17 Friday Jan 2020

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These minutes showed up in my mailbox earlier this week, so I take some responsibility for posting them here a bit late. The council meeting agenda for the January 21st meeting will follow this weekend.

The only thing really worth noting in these minutes is Council’s input to the Strategic Plan (10.5.1). I’m sure that they are offering their best input based on personal experience and discussions with the public. I do object to their decision to direct Redbrick Communications to take the various inputs and create the Strategic Plan for their approval at the next council meeting. It may be a question of semantics, but the Strategic Plan is one of the few direct deliverables that Council has. Perhaps it would have been better stated that ‘Redbrick is directed to produce a draft Strategic plan for Council review and, as appropriate revision, and finalization’. I hope this is the case. Council needs to ‘own’ the Strategic Plan, not delegate it to consultants.

Closed Session

b) personal matter about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees, (Director of Public Works Selection and Employment Agreement);

c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land for municipal or local board purposes, (Wellness Centre & Pool Cost Sharing Negotiations);

d) labour relations or employee negotiations, (Director of Public Works Selection and Employment Agreement);

n) a position, plan, procedure, criteria or instruction to be applied to any negotiations carried on or to be carried on by or on behalf of the municipality or local board, (Wellness Centre & Pool Cost Sharing Negotiations).

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiry regarding traffic signal work being done at the Isabella and Joseph/Church Street intersection, Director of Public Works Peter Brown reported that electronic infrastructure is being replaced, and that there was enough money in the budget to install an audible traffic signal. Mr. Brown said that the signal is being tested now and hopefully by the end of the year will be up and running similar to that installed at the intersection of James and Seguin Streets.

3.2.2 – Councillor Keith recommended that the public go up to the Museum and view the outdoor decorations and Christmas light installation there.

3.2.3 – In response to Councillor McCann’s suggestion that signage indicating “please watch, our children are at play” might be preferable to speed limit signs on Riverdale Road, Mr. Brown cautioned that many municipalities are getting rid of those types of signs since it implies that children are allowed to play on the street and this may create a liability for the municipality. Mr. Brown recommended instead the purchase of a solar powered speed limit flashing sign in the 2020 budget which can be moved to different locations. Mr. Brown also reported that the Town’s traffic counter identifies the speed of vehicles and this information is immediately sent to the OPP.
Upon receiving this information, the following motion was made:
That staff be directed to include for consideration in the 2020 budget, purchase of a solar powered speed limit flashing sign. Carried

3.2.4 – In response to Councillor Borneman’s inquiry regarding Kinsmen Park and BOCC public skating through the upcoming holiday season, Manager of Parks & Recreation April McNamara reported that more cold days are necessary in order to make ice at the outdoor rink and when the rink is ready, notice will be posted on the Town website. Ms. McNamara reported that a full schedule of public skating at the BOCC sponsored by Tim Horton’s and the Town is posted on the Town website.

3.2.5 – In response to Mayor McGarvey’s inquiry as to whether staff is looking at lowering the speed limit in any other area of Town, including Waubeek Street which was the subject of a previous deputation, Mr. Brown reported that the 50 km speed limit signs have been re-installed on Waubeek Street after being taken down during road construction.
That staff be directed to include for consideration in the 2020 budget, review of Waubeek and Riverdale Streets for purposes of considering speed reduction. Carried

Correspondence
4.1 – Linda Taylor, Program Director, West Parry Sound Community Support Services. 2020 Funding Request. Circulated to Mayor, Council and Director of Finance for consideration in 2020 budget.

4.2 – Nadine Hammond, Curator/Manager, West Parry Sound District Museum. Update and 2020 Funding Request. Circulated to Mayor, Council and Director of Finance for consideration in 2020 budget.

4.3 – Reeve Bert Liverance, Township of the Archipelago. Copy of letter and resolution to Minister of Long-Term Care, Merrilee Fullerton, re support for an Ontario Health Team to cover Parry Sound District. Circulated to Mayor and Council.

Deputations
5.1 – Bill Mardimae, Gardens Retirement Developments Inc.- withdrawn. Gardens Retirement proposed development.

5.2 – Keith Smith – withdrawn. Handicapped parking spaces at The Gardens proposed new building.

5.3 – Chris Pettinger, Chair of 2019-2020 Parry Sound Area Founders Circle; & Dan DiNicolo, Chair of Marketing Committee of the Founders Circle. Parry Sound Area Founders Circle. Chris Pettinger and Dan DiNicolo addressed Council with an overview of the Parry Sound Area Founders Circle noting that it was established in October 2019 by a group of business and community leaders “who share the belief that entrepreneurism and innovation are essential to meaningful local growth and sustainable development; they move that belief into action by providing up-and-coming ventures with direct financial support through a competitive award program, and opportunities to network with established mentors.” Each Founder contributes $1000 to the Circle and funds are used to provide no-strings-attached prizes to start-ups and existing businesses selected by the Founders according to criteria that they establish.
Parry Sound Muskoka Community Network (in turn supported by FedNor) supports the meetings of the Founders and covers costs of an annual gala event known as the Impact Awards, at which the entrepreneurship prizes are announced. Membership is open to all individuals and businesses living and/or operating in the Parry Sound Area.
Mr. Pettinger listed the 32 current Founders including: the Town of Parry Sound, RBC Foundation, Paul Schoefield, Lakeland Holdings, Ritchie Insurance, Parry Sound Insurance, Trestle Brewing Company, 18 James Street, Claudette Boyd, Scotia Bank Parry Sound, Boston Pizza Parry Sound, Parry Sound Area Community Business Development Centre, Rotary Club of Parry Sound, InXpress Canada, Parry Sound Fuels, Crofters Foods Ltd., Orr’s Fine Meats, William Beatty Company, Tamarack North, Torrance Funeral Homes, Georgian Bay Whole Foods, Oldham Law Firm, Ted Scott, Bayshore Financial, Air Rider Hovercraft International, Hall Construction, Adams Bros. Construction, Connor Industries, CIBC Parry Sound, Peter Istvan Photography.
Mr. DiNicolo reported that applications will be open January 1 to March 1, 2020 and winners will be decided upon after the application deadline and awarded at the April 23, 2020 Impact Awards at the JW Marriott. Awards will include: 1) a Parry Sound High School Award sponsored by RBC Financial (amount not yet confirmed); 2) $5,000 second place prize and 3) $10,000 grand prize, with the remainder of the money held in reserve for the next year. Mr. Pettinger reported that the Circle is still accepting Founders until December 31st this year, with the hope that existing founders will continue to participate in subsequent years.
Mr. Pettinger requested that the Town support the project by posting relevant information on the Town website and otherwise broadcasting and promoting the program.
In response to an inquiry as to the geographic catchment area of Founders and eligible applicants, Mr. Pettinger noted that it is not entirely firmed as the Founders want to tend to the inclusive as opposed to exclusive. There are members from the east side of the District, but most are concentrated in the West Parry Sound Area.
Council members congratulated and thanked the deputation for their achievement in getting the Founders Circle started.

5.4 – Ron Jenkins. Sidewalks – repairs and accessibility. Mr. Jenkin inquired as to whether there was any action on the development of a committee to address the accessible sidewalk issue that he raised in a previous deputation.
At the invitation by Mayor McGarvey to respond, CAO Clayton Harris reported that there have been discussions at the staff level with the Human Resources Coordinator taking the lead, currently researching Terms of Reference for such a Committee, with a recommendation scheduled to come back to Council in early 2020.
Mr. Jenkins inquired as to when the sidewalks would be fixed and noted that he recently broke a wheel on his wheelchair.
Mayor McGarvey responded that sidewalk construction, repair, etc. would be considered within the 2020 budget deliberations.
Mr. Jenkins reported that two years ago he fell down stairs located at 49-51 William Street, and that the Director of Public Works was called and viewed the situation. Mr. Jenkins said that nothing has been done. Mayor McGarvey responded that his concerns have now been noted.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 – Low Pressure Forcemain Parry Sound Drive. Resolution. That the report updating Council on the low pressure forcemain on Parry Sound Drive and concerns raised by Bayside Family Church be received for information purposes. Carried

9.3.1 – BOCC: Emergency Floor Scrubber Replacement. Resolution. That Council authorize the emergency purchase of a new mechanical floor scrubber for the Bobby Orr Community Centre at a cost not to exceed $10,000 including HST; and
That the mechanical floor scrubber be funded with the reallocation of unspent capital funds as follows: $5,000 from the BOCC LED Light conversion project and $5,000 from the BOCC Olympia Laser Level. Carried

9.4.1 – General Insurance Renewal. Resolution. That Council hereby approves the renewal of the Corporation’s general insurance policy with BFL Canada at the premium of $350,914 plus tax for the one-year period ending December 15, 2020. Carried

By-laws

10.2.1 – Rezoning Application – Z/19/14 – College Drive (M2 Developments Inc.). By-Law 2019 – 6999. Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for Z/19/14 – 12 College Drive (M2 Developments Inc./Gardens of Parry Sound). At the request of the developer who was not able to be in attendance, Council agreed to postpone the by-law to the January 21, 2020 meeting.

10.4.1 – 2020 Interim Tax Levy. By-law 2019 – 7001. Being a By-Law to provide for an interim tax levy, for the payment of taxes, and for penalty and interest at 1 1/4 percent per month for the 2020 taxation year. Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.5.1 – Strategic Plan Public Consultation Feedback; Council Input/Workshop Presenter/Facilitator: Andrea Montgomery, Redbrick Communications
Agenda for Strategic Plan – Council Input/Workshop attached:
CAO Clayton Harris introduced the evening’s Strategic Plan (SP) exercise identifying the SP purpose as helping to guide the Town’s decision making well into the future. Mr. Harris reported that Redbrick Communications was hired to do community consultation done through on-line survey, focus groups – including with high school students, and open house forums. Mr. Harris introduced Ms. Andrea Montgomery and Mr. Steph Loch to provide the results of the community consultation and lead the exercise in soliciting Council’s feedback prior to a proposed final report back to Council in January, 2020.
Ms. Montgomery addressed Council from a prepared power point presentation circulated with the meeting agenda. Ms. Montgomery suggested that the Strategic Plan Focus for 2020-2022 was to set a common vision for the future, set a framework for decision making and to support a more efficient organization. The consultation process included meetings with senior leaders, on-line survey, focus groups, youth session, open house and now this evening’s Council session. If captured in the feedback forum, Ms. Montgomery provided a breakdown of participants/respondents by municipal residence, age, time lived in Parry Sound, education, income, and employment. Ms. Montgomery identified the key themes and highest priorities for each feedback forum and put together reported that the following three priority areas emerged: Growth, Development and Housing; Partnerships and Quality of Life; and Organizational Excellence.
Ms. Montgomery set members of Council into two pairs and a triad to review in small groups and provide their feedback on the three priority areas keeping in mind the following: setting priorities that are fiscally sustainable; thinking long-term – beyond 3 years; determining where it is possible to align with public feedback; and considering promises kept and reported back on. After approximately 30 minutes involved in this exercise, Ms. Montgomery took feedback from each small group in turn.

Table 1 – Mayor McGarvey, Councillors Borneman and McCann
Table 2 – Councillors Burden and Horne
Table 3 – Councillors Backman and Keith

Growth, Development and Housing

Table 1
– Recreational Complex – partnerships with Area Municipalities, First Nations, Provincial and Federal governments; opportunity for private sector investment; extends recreational opportunities for all ages; provides incentives for new growth and housing, i.e. people (employers, employees) want to locate here because of amenities.
– Housing – support housing across the housing spectrum; the working population whether rental, attainable rental, attainable home ownership – lobby province to support attainable housing.
– Waterfront – support development of brownfields property; redevelopment of MNR/OPP property; make sure Official Plan and zoning flexibility; upgrades to infrastructure or new development takes into account climate change.
– Facilitate business retention strategies.
Table 2
– Be development ready with infrastructure; reduce red tape; reduce duplicated services i.e. with Area Planning Board, slows down processes and doesn’t necessarily attract development;
– infrastructure services; i.e. swing bridge as an economic driver
– development and utilization of Town owned industrial park, and EDO working on that piece of land.
Table 3
– advocate for a financial sustainability plan with respect to economic development in order to know how Parry Sound can economically grow, with objectives which can be measured on an annual basis; useful for budgeting and as information to the public.
– Infrastructure development – targeted investments in specific technology, revitalization and waterfront plans all built into the Strategic Plan, in order that one can look at the Plan and see progress on the various plan initiatives.
– Recommend longer term Strategic Plan, such as at least 10 years.
– Variety of housing options and look at what can be done with zoning by-law changes to accommodate a mix of population in neighbourhoods.
-Town act as broker for development; facilitate development; Town facilitate connection and realignment of business with economic development organizations in increasing business retention and expansion strategies.

Partnerships and Quality of Life

Table 2
– Maintain and improve ongoing partnerships that exist with service clubs, business community, environmental groups, non-profit agencies; e.g. current municipal and First Nations commitment towards pool & rec centre as well as a number of economic development partnerships which enhance quality of life and increase employment opportunities; look for shared services opportunities which save money for all municipalities.
Table 3
– Need for Recreation Plan and a Mobility Plan, (which takes into account infrastructure, accessibility) and which considers seniors and youth who want to be involved in activities.
Table 1
– Events such as winter light up the Town (bigger than light up park); support private sector events; e.g. women’s weekend; downtown events. As Town can’t afford to do and run every event, there are ways we can support other events. E.g. used to support dragon boat event, now because Rotary supports Rach, we can support event in a particular way that makes it easier for service organizations to run the events.
– Partnership with Lakeland Power re: the Net Zero Community, i.e. a system being designed through the Town to use solar and water generating stations to produce enough power with battery back-up that outside power isn’t needed. This will green up the community, make the community locally sustainable and save money. This project the first in Canada, to be realized within 5 years.
– Opportunities with other municipalities to purchase supplies and equipment.
– Opportunities with area municipalities and other organizations for marketing, tourism opportunities and recreation.

Organizational Excellence
Table 3
– Clear communication to public regarding sustainability and how we are meeting goals. – Interconnection and increased efficiency in administration and shared services.
– Better recognition (i.e. showcasing) of employees’ attributes (e.g. someone who is really good at volunteering), and goals at all levels of organization as it results in increased morale, more employee pride in the organization and community, and good marketing for the Town and community as a good place to work and live.

Table 2
– Defined by employee engagement and the value they see in working for the Town of Parry Sound; this comes with training and educational opportunities, leadership development.
– Value of why we’re here; i.e. for residents and taxpayers of the Town of Parry Sound what is the value of the services that are rendered.
– Defined succession planning for employees.

Table 1
– Look at all aspects of communication with the public; and determine what is working and what is not; consider getting one person to pull all this information together and communicate with the public;
– Fiscal responsibility
– Design of future infrastructure to consider Town’s population; i.e. prepare for growth, physical abilities, age.
– Staff training and employee pride

Ms. Montgomery reported pursuant to direction approved by Council this evening, that all this feedback would be taken into account within the three identified priorities and reported back to Council.

Direction for follow-up
That upon receipt of feedback from the public consultation process and with the input provided by Council at its December 17th meeting, that Redbrick Communications be directed to produce the Strategic Plan 2020-2022 for the January 21st, 2020 Council Meeting for approval. Carried

Council Agenda Preview – December 17, 2019

14 Saturday Dec 2019

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There are a number of items on the agenda that are worth noting:

Closed Session Items
b) personal matter about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees, (Director of Public Works Selection and Employment Agreement).
It looks as though the Town may be close to hiring a new Director of Public Works.
c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land for municipal or local board purposes, (Wellness Centre & Pool Cost Sharing Negotiations);
It’s not clear if the plans are to dispose of the property already purchased for the Pool, or to acquire a separate piece of property adjacent to the current YMCA complex. It looks as though if built the pool will be situated on either of the two locations. This item tends to suggest the Pool project is either ‘hotting up’ or the Town is cutting its losses.

Besides an accessible parking issue for The Gardens (10.2.1) the only other notable item on the agenda is the Strategic Plan presentation (10.5.1). I am not optimistic. It has been said that a camel is a horse designed by a committee. I think the input process and the comments received represent an important step in the process of developing a strategic plan. In the end any good plan needs to distill input and then proceed with vision that embraces reality. A strategic plan is not a shopping list of reasonable and unreasonable objectives. Focus, focus, focus. I am a little discouraged by the fact that the cover photo of the presentation includes a ‘historical’ photo. Not a good omen. Not at all a good omen.

Closed Session

b) personal matter about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees, (Director of Public Works Selection and Employment Agreement);
c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land for municipal or local board purposes, (Wellness Centre & Pool Cost Sharing Negotiations);
d) labour relations or employee negotiations, (Director of Public Works Selection and Employment Agreement);
n) a position, plan, procedure, criteria or instruction to be applied to any negotiations carried on or to be carried on by or on behalf of the municipality or local board, (Wellness Centre & Pool Cost Sharing Negotiations).

Correspondence
4.1 – Linda Taylor, Program Director, West Parry Sound Community Support Services. 2020 Funding Request
4.2 – Nadine Hammond, Curator/Manager, West Parry Sound District Museum. Update and 2020 Funding Request

 Deputations
5.1 – Bill Mardimae, Gardens Retirement Developments Inc. Gardens Retirement proposed development.
5.2 – Keith Smith. Handicapped parking spaces at The Gardens proposed new building.
5.3 – Chris Pettinger, Dan DiNicolo. Founders Circle.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – Low Pressure Forcemain Parry Sound Drive.
Resolution. That the report updating Council on the low pressure forcemain on Parry Sound Drive and concerns raised by Bayside Family Church be received for information purposes.

9.3.1 – BOCC: Emergency Floor Scrubber Replacement.
Resolution. That Council authorize the emergency purchase of a new mechanical floor scrubber for the Bobby Orr Community Centre at a cost not to exceed $10,000 including HST; and
That the mechanical floor scrubber be funded with the reallocation of unspent capital funds as follows: $5,000 from the BOCC LED Light conversion project and $5,000 from the BOCC Olympia Laser Level.

9.4.1 – General Insurance Renewal and Cyber Insurance.
Resolution. That Council hereby approves the renewal of the Corporation’s general insurance policy with BFL Canada at the premium of $350,914 plus tax for the one-year period ending December 15, 2020.

By-laws
10.2.1 – Rezoning Application – Z/19/14 – College Drive (M2 Developments Inc.).

By-Law 2019 – 6999. Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for Z/19/14 – 12 College Drive (M2 Developments Inc./Gardens of Parry Sound).

10.4.1 – 2020 Interim Tax Levy.
By-law 2019 – 7001. Being a By-Law to provide for an interim tax levy, for the payment of taxes, and for penalty and interest at 1 1/4 percent per month for the 2020 taxation year.

10.5.1 – Strategic Plan Public Consultation Feedback; Council Input/Workshop Presenter/Facilitator: Andrea Montgomery, Redbrick Communications Agenda for Strategic Plan – Council Input/Workshop attached.
Direction (proposed for adoption following Council’s workshop). That upon receipt of feedback from the public consultation process and with the input provided by Council at its December 17th meeting, that Redbrick Communications be directed to produce the Strategic Plan 2020-2022 for the January 21st, 2020 Council Meeting for approval.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – November 19, 2019

22 Friday Nov 2019

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The major news from this week’s Town of Parry Sound council meeting is that the Lighthouse development on Salt Dock Road has a green light from Council to proceed.

As always there were questions of Staff about snow removal when we get an early season dump. I think the Town does a good job, but there are always people who want more and faster. Well we can have it, it just costs money. That also means we will have unused capacity if and when it doesn’t snow. How much buffer do you carry in your bank accounts; how much extra life insurance and disability insurance do you carry? I’m sure that if you are conscientious you do what is necessary with a little extra capacity but realize that you really aren’t prepared if we were to get two feet of snow in one day, or you had a house fire. You could survive it, but it will take patience and understanding. I would rather not raise the taxes so that we clear the snow an hour earlier. We shouldn’t be surprised when we get a dump with the quality of weather forecasts. We need to plan for it. If your street isn’t plowed as early as you like, park overnight at a friend’s house where there is earlier service and walk over to your car in the morning. If the sidewalks aren’t clear at 8:00, wait until they are cleared. Don’t play the role of victim. If you want better snow service, let Council know and be prepared to pay for it.

The day we received the dump of snow I had a meeting in the downtown, and I drove. The roads were okay as I traveled down Bowes and Miller Streets. I thought for a minute or two about Peter Brown, Director of Operations retiring at the end of the year. I realized that he doesn’t just worry about getting to work every day, he also has to worry about getting everybody else to work and school every day, and those folks who want to get out for an early coffee. I suddenly understood why he is retiring, at least from this position. When you are a public servant everybody thinks they are your boss and being experts they can tell you how to do your job better. Enough is enough. The job is still open if you think you can do a better job. And you get the benefits and scrutiny that comes with making the Sunshine List.

Closed Session

c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land for municipal or local board purpose, (property matter);
e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board, (update on litigation of cases with the Town);
f) the receiving of advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose, (update on litigation of cases with the Town);
j) educating or training council members and no member shall discuss or deal with any matter in a way that materially advances the business of the Council (municipal finances);

Questions of Staff

3.2.1 – In response to Councillor Borneman’s request for an update on the progress on Waubeek Street, Director of Public Works Peter Brown replied that Waubeek & Melvin will be paved starting tomorrow morning and will be open for business Thursday morning. Some concrete work will be completed in the Spring.

3.2.2 – Councillor McCann inquired as to how staff manage & prioritize the plowing of roads and sidewalks, as he and other Councillors received complaints regarding the snowplowing during the last snowfall. Director of Public Works Peter Brown responded that the Town has a Winter Control Policy available on the website for residents to view which is mandated by Council. At that particular snow event the snow started about 1:30 am and crews were out by 4:30 am plowing & sidewalk clearing. Plowing is done on a priority and traffic flow basis per the policy and Mr. Brown reported that he feels staff are doing an excellent job. Each year the plan is modified to accommodate changes in the community such as the new placement of schools.

3.2.3 – Councillor Backman asked the Director of Development & Protective Services for an update on the strategic planning process. Dave Thompson responded that the process was started with focus group sessions yesterday morning and evening. On November 26th the group will be at the high school for input from the students and there will be an open house in the evening of the 26th at the BOCC from 7:00 to 9:00 pm that the public are welcome to attend. The consultants and senior staff will be present to answer questions. There is a web-based survey on the Town’s website which has over 180 surveys completed to date. After November 26th the consultants will consolidate the information and bring the information forward to the December 17th council meeting for Council’s review and input.

3.2.4 – Councillor Keith inquired of Mr. Brown if he was familiar with any community education programs concerning snowfall events and the need for residents themselves to also be prepared. Mr. Brown replied that he has seen some websites and twitter feeds with this information; he will ensure this information is circulated soon on the Town website and twitter feed.

Correspondence

4.1 – District of Parry Sound Violence Against Women Coordinating Committee. Request as part of national initiative, that the Municipal office flags be lowered to 1/2 mast on December 6, 2019 to mark the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women and specifically to remember the lives lost on December 6th, 1989 of 14 young university students at l’École Polytechnique de Montréal. Circulated to Mayor & Council, on this evening’s agenda as item 8.1 and filed.

4.2 – Climate Action Parry Sound. They are a grassroots organization of concerned citizens committed to limiting and mitigating the effects of human-caused global warming introducing their group to Council. Their goals are to raise awareness, solicit petition signatures to be forwarded to provincial and federal governments and support youth commitment for multi- generational demonstrations in support of “Fridays for Future”. They will network and collaborate with other groups and organizations in our community on lowering our carbon footprint. Circulated to Mayor & Council and filed.

Deputations

5.1 – Glenda Clayton and Monica Moore, Parry Sound Area Food Collaborative. Community Oven. Glenda Clayton addressed Council, introducing the Parry Sound and Area Food Collaborative as a group of key community stakeholders and a number of individual residents who work at championing healthy sustainable food systems for the Parry Sound Area. They have a number of initiatives including the Parry Sound & Area Food Charter. Ms. Clayton reported that a new initiative is a Community Oven – an age-old multi-cultural tradition, and they propose to locate it at the Mary Street Centre, built outside on the green space between their building and the North Star building, now owned by the Ryans. The oven will be available to be rented by various groups and also used for community events. Oven masters will be trained to work with the users. They have conferred with Fire Chief Thompson on some of the safety aspects. It will be heated by wood which will be stored in a locked wood storage building. Ms. Clayton and Ms. Moore concluded by requesting support for this initiative.

5.2 – Ron Jenkins. Sidewalks and repairs required for his wheelchair. Mr. Jenkins addressed Council noting that he came here 6 years ago from Guelph, and loves being here. He said that the elevator in this building won’t accommodate his wheelchair so he walked up the stairs this evening. He & other wheelchair users get together to discuss which back streets to avoid, to minimize the damage to their wheelchairs. He requests that attention be paid to the state of the sidewalks and says it would be very appreciated by him and many other wheelchair users. He requests that Council members use a wheelchair on the sidewalks to see what he means.
The following direction was proposed: That staff develop a report with respect to developing a disabled citizens committee that could make recommendations to Council as to some needs in the community. Carried

5.3 – Nancy Cunningham Re: Lighthouse OPA & ZBA. Ms. Cunningham addressed Council requesting some assurances and clarification on the guarantees put forward by the developer on such items as: only the elevator shaft & no other additions being on the roof, preservation of the trees between the subject property and the Fitness Trail, information on the surveyor and clarification on what height compared to Beaconview – floor or ceiling level, what is the record of the developer with regards to parking, garbage storage & landscaping, and why is the independent planner’s report called a justification report. Ms. Cunningham reminded Council members that most of them were in office when both the Official Plan and the Trails Master Plan were being developed and that the residents rely on those members to support the legislation they helped create. Ms. Cunningham requested a recorded vote on this matter.

5.4 – Josh Morgan, Morgan Planning & Development. Lighthouse Official Plan Amendment/Zoning By-law Amendment (OPA / ZBA). Mr. Morgan, representing Greystone Project Management, addressed Council to summarize the primary topics & concerns expressed during the public meeting in July, the primary themes expressed in correspondence since the public meeting and the steps the applicant has taken since those comments were received and the summary of the land use control measures that would be in place should the by-laws be passed.
In response to the Primary Land Use comments: Triton Engineering Services Limited was retained to peer review the Traffic Impact Study, FRI Corp was retained to peer review the Species at Risk Assessment. The Town retained Jamie Robinson of MHBC Planning to provide his professional planning opinion regarding the appropriateness of the applications.
Riverstone Environmental Solutions Inc prepared an itemized response to the environmental peer review and FRI Corp confirmed that all of their peer review comments had been suitably addressed.
Tatham Engineering Limited prepared an itemized response to the traffic peer review and they accept that there will not be any appreciable level of service or capacity issues and that the entrance alignment and/or sight line improvements can be addressed via Site Plan Approval Process.
L.U. Maughan Company Limited, an Ontario Land Surveyor, was retained to confirm the finished 1st floor elevation of the adjacent Beaconview, which is 203.75 GSC. The elevation of the proposed roof is 203.6 GSC which is lower than the 1st floor elevation of Beaconview. An earth toned roof membrane will be utilized and air conditioning units will not be installed on the roof.
The site plan has been updated to increase the westerly interior side yard setback from 3.47m to 6.0m which allows a greater setback between the building and the fitness trail. With the trail being approx. 9.0m from the westerly property boundary this results in an approx. setback of 15m. Proposed are improvements to the existing trailhead with improved public parking, installation of a trail extension and crosswalk over Salt Dock Road.
Due to the topography of the subject property the designation of Open Public Space doesn’t fit well as its use as a public facility or park would be very difficult. It is more suited to the designation of Residential High Density.
Detailed servicing, grading and storm water management design drawings will be submitted as part of the Site Plan approval process.
Soil Engineers Ltd. have been retained to prepare Phase 1 and Phase 2 Environmental Site Assessment once the ZBA and OPA have been approved to file a Record of Site Condition, if required.
The ZBA is proposed with a Holding provision. The holding provision will not be lifted until such time as the applicant has obtained Site Plan Approval and Record of Site Condition, if required.
Mr. Morgan requested approval of both the Zoning By-law Amendment and the Official Plan Amendment.

5.5 – Jamie Robinson, MHBC Planning. Mr. Robinson addressed Council, reporting that he has 17 years experience throughout central and northern Ontario as a professional planner, and he has been retained by the Town of Parry Sound to take an independent review of this site dealing with the 2 land use planning applications on the agenda this evening. Mr. Robinson said that the 2 by- laws are intended to establish the principle of use for the site; i.e. “is this an appropriate site for a building of the size, of the massing of the scale that’s proposed with the site specific amendments that are identified through the zoning by-law? That’s the question before Council with both the OPA and the ZBA”. Mr. Robinson said that the specific details would be considered through the site plan agreement that will be brought to Council at a later time.
With respect to the earlier deputation concerning guarantees to the surrounding area and residents with respect to the application, Mr. Robinson reported that Mr. Morgan identified that the site plan control process provides those guarantees and also the zoning by-law amendment that’s before Council this evening does specifically establish a building envelope of the site, and it does specifically establish a maximum height provision for this building so it effectively establishes a building location and a massing for development on this site. If the proposed development were ever to exceed those requirements, additional planning approval would be required and there would be a public meeting for that so the by-law itself is an important component to provide those assurances to the public. Mr. Robinson also noted that as Mr. Morgan mentioned, the site plan process does provide those specific details as well.
With respect to comments as to whether Mr. Robinson’s report was a “justification report”, or a “review report”, Mr. Robinson said that it is a “review report”. Mr. Robinson noted that there is a footer within his report which is incorrect, and for that he apologized and confirmed that it is a review report.
Mr. Robinson noted that the OPA relates to Schedule A of the Official Plan to be modified to re-designate the lands to High Density Residential. The lands currently are not being used as a park and in historical documents these lands are not identified for future parkland purposes.
In the ZBA there are a number of different modifications proposed: a height of 12.5 m, the height is measured from the front lot which in this case the front yard abuts Salt Dock Road. The elevations of 203.75 and 203.6 were provided by the surveyors. For assurances to the public those elevations would be encapsulated in the site plan agreement and the zoning by-law itself specified a maximum height of 12.5m. The specifics of the elevator are included in the ZBA and would require an amendment if proposed to be changed.
The by-law requires 50% front yard, the proposed reduction is to 29%; the front yard contains parking, snow storage and landscaped open space. While the front yard faces Salt Dock Road, the building itself faces Georgian Bay. Outdoor parking spaces are 3m x 6m which meets the requirement of the zoning by-law; however, each indoor parking space is proposed to be 2.7m x 6m.
A Holding “H” Symbol is added to a zoning by-law amendment and it effectively provides some conditions that need to be satisfied before a building permit can be issued. What the Holding symbol means is that site plan control is required. Specific items are included in the holding symbol and the site plan agreement which reflect the public comments and concerns. The details, “nuts & bolts”, of the site plan agreement will be ironed out by staff during the site plan process, details such as design requirements related to roof structures, restrictions on mechanicals on roof. As all this information has to be built right into the site plan agreement this gives assurance as it is a legal binding agreement between the property owner, the Town and any future property owner as it’s an agreement registered on title.
Mr. Robinson reported that in context of the surrounding developments, there are a number of high-density developments in the area, and in his opinion, he thinks the proposed development does make efficient use of existing infrastructure and is appropriate both from a scale perspective and a density perspective and is compatible with surrounding land uses.
With regard to the height, Mr. Robinson reported that he believed there have been some steps taken to protect the views for the existing condominium in the area.
Mr. Robinson reported that he believed there has been adequate consideration given to trail connection and parkland aspects.
The traffic study identifies there is existing transportation infrastructure in the area sufficient to support the additional demand that would be created.
The parking requirements do exceed the minimum requirements.
An Endangered and Threatened species assessment was completed and determined there is a very low likelihood of endangered or threatened species present. A timing window is recommended to be included in the site plan agreement.
In conclusion, Mr. Robinson reported that an independent look at each of the public comments was undertaken and addressed within his report. Having reviewed the Official Plan and having reviewed the Growth Plan for Northern Ontario and the Provincial Policy Statement, Mr. Robinson reported that he believed that the proposed development is consistent with the PPS and conforms both with the growth plan and the Town’s Official Plan and would represent good land use planning.

After the deputations Council dealt with prioritized Item 10.2.2

10.2.2 – Lighthouse Official Plan Amendment (OPA) and Zoning By-law Amendment (ZBA).
By-law 2019 – 6991. Being a By-law to Adopt Official Plan Amendment No. 2 – Part of Block Q of Plan 123 and a portion of Part 7 of 42R129.
A recorded vote was taken:
Yes – Councillor Vanessa Backman, Councillor Paul Borneman, Councillor Roger Burden, Councillor Brad Horne, Councillor Bonnie Keith, Councillor Doug McCann, Mayor Jamie McGarvey
Passed, Signed & Sealed

By-law 2019 – 6992. Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for Part of Block Q of Plan 123 and a portion of Part 7 of 42R129. That the following amendment be included in the by-law:
Despite Section 8.2 of By-law 2004-4653, as amended, the property shall be limited to a maximum of 43 Apartment Dwelling Units. Carried
A recorded vote was taken:
Yes – Councillor Vanessa Backman, Councillor Paul Borneman, Councillor Roger Burden, Councillor Brad Horne, Councillor Bonnie Keith, Councillor Doug McCann, Mayor Jamie McGarvey
Passed, Signed & Sealed

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.3.1 – BOCC Championship Banner Display Policy. Resolution. That Council approve the Bobby Orr Community Centre Championship Banner Display Policy as attached as Schedule A. Carried

9.3.2 – West Parry Sound Area Recreation and Culture Centre (Wellness Centre and Pool Complex). Direction. THAT the update report on the West Parry Sound Area Recreation and Culture Centre (Wellness Centre and Pool Complex) be received for information purposes. Carried

9.3.3 – Parry Sound Wastewater Treatment Plant Inspection Report. Resolution. That the report on the September 4, 2019 Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) Parry Sound Wastewater Treatment Plant Inspection Report be received for information purposes. Carried

9.3.4 – Municipal Modernization Program, Expression of Interest. Resolution. Whereas Intake 1 for the Municipal Modernization Program was announced on November 12, 2019 by the Province; and
Whereas the program only applies to 405 small and rural Ontario municipalities, including Parry Sound; and
Whereas municipalities must submit an intention to apply by November 22, 2019; and
Whereas an Expression of Interest must be submitted by December 6, 2019;
Now Therefore staff be directed to submit the Town’s intention to apply to the Municipal Modernization Program for funding for a review of current waste management services with the objective of finding service delivery efficiencies and creating a long-term waste management strategy; and
That staff report back to Council prior to the December 6, 2019 deadline should an alternative project be determined as more appropriate. Carried

By-laws

10.1.1 – Curbside Waste & Recycling Collection Contract Extension Spokesperson: Peter Brown, Director of Public Works.
By-law 2019 – 6994. Being a bylaw to amend bylaw 2011-6048 and bylaw 2019-6890, to authorize the execution of an extension of the existing curbside waste and recycling collection contract with Waste Connections of Canada Inc. for one year, ending December 31, 2020. Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.2.1 – Municipal Office and Firehall Custodial 2020 and 202.
By-law 2019 – 6984. That Council authorizes the execution of a contract with Bernie Filiatrault’s Janitorial for Custodial services of the Municipal Office and Council Chambers set-up. Passed, Signed & Sealed
By-law 2019 – 6985. That Council authorizes the execution of a contract with Bernie Filiatrault’s Janitorial for Custodial services at the Firehall Complex. Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.3.1 – Parry Sound Area Founders Circle Agreement.
By-law 2019 – 6993. Being a by-law to authorize the execution of an Agreement with the Parry Sound Area Founders Circle to support business innovation and new business’s ideas. Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.4.1 – Debenture issue for completed 2018 and 2019 Capital Works.
By-law 2019 – 6989. A By-law of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound to Authorize the Borrowing Upon Amortizing Debentures in the Principal Amount of $727,779.50 Towards the Cost of the Stockey Centre Roof/Hardy Board Siding. Passed, Signed & Sealed
By-law 2019 – 6990. A By-law of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound to Authorize the Borrowing Upon Amortizing Debentures in the Principal Amount of $860,435.56 Towards the Cost of the Bobby Orr Community Centre Ice Pad Replacement. Passed, Signed & Sealed

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – October 15, 2019

19 Saturday Oct 2019

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Well, I was little disappointed reading the minutes of Tuesday’s meeting. One of the items was, depending on the decision of Council, prime for comment and criticism. The item in question, 9.4.1, concerned a reduction in the number of regular annual council meetings. In the end Council, as I expected, unanimously rejected the proposal and returned to the usual schedule of meetings. Earlier in the day I had a chance to speak to a senior staff member and offered my opinion that approving the reduced meeting schedule might not impair the operations of the Town, but it would compromise the ability of the public to make deputations before Council. The optics also would not be good if Council decided to reduce their public face time without public input.
It already is tough to secure a deputation spot for anything that might have come up on the council meeting agenda the previous Friday and would benefit from public input. Many deputations are being used by folks to provide updates, make requests, and even pitch business opportunities. Many of these are better handled perhaps with written documentation. But a letter or email doesn’t get the same attention as a deputation. Perhaps it doesn’t really need the attention. A suggestion – let’s revise the deputation protocol to allow for up to 5 or 6 deputations, but each of them no longer than 5 minutes. If a presenter can’t make their point in 5 minutes they are possibly grandstanding rather than communicating a point. If more time is required they can follow up with Staff. At the least, formally allocate 30 minutes for deputations and consistently cut folks off at the 8 minute point to allow for questions. That may free up time for unscheduled deputations that are relevant to items before Council that evening.

The idea of fewer council meetings may have merit as long as procedural changes are made to ensure the public isn’t restricted in their access to Council through the deputation process. Seems like a ballot initiative that the public should decide. I would also suggest that a raise for Council, at least cost of living, should be on the next ballot. Council is a little too shy to give themselves what is a reasonable raise. If they don’t give themselves a raise they don’t get a raise, even if they deserve it. (It’s a more ‘taxing’ job than most people realize in terms of time and criticism.)

I am listing by-law items as Carried rather than Passed, Signed and Sealed. The minutes have changed in how decisions are reported and I assume that the items have been approved even if not listed as Passed, Signed and Sealed.

Nothing else warrants comment in my opinion.

Closed Session

b) personal matter about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees (Taxi License Appeal Hearing)
e) litigation of potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board; (Rezoning – 1 College Dr.)
f) the receiving of advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose; (Rezoning – 1 College Dr.)

Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof

1.4.1 – Councillor Keith is employed by the Solicitor General and as such declared conflict on item 7.1 related to Applicant #001-2019’s appeal for a Taxi Drivers’ License. Councillor Keith left the room, did not participate in discussion nor vote on the matter.

Public Meeting

2.1 – Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/14 – 12 College Drive (M2 Developments Inc. – The Gardens). Subsequent to an explanation of how the public was notified of application Z/19/14 – 12 College Drive (M2 Developments Inc. – The Gardens), Manager of Building & Planning Services Taylor Elgie gave an explanation of the purpose of the proposed Zoning Bylaw Amendment (ZBA), being to amend the existing S.P. 26.88 Zone. The property currently permits a four storey Retirement Residence in addition to all the uses in the C3 zone. The applicant has requested the additional use of a four storey Apartment Dwelling to provide flexibility subject to reduced easterly and rear yard setbacks, and a reduced parking standard of 30 parking spaces for 60 units. The portion of the property subject to the rezoning is currently vacant.
Mayor McGarvey invited those in favour of the proposed ZBA to address Council.
Bill Mardimae of M2 Developments, owner and operator of the Parry Sound retirement home The Gardens addressed Council, noting that the original project was developed in 2013 with 70 suites, and an additional 37 has just been added. Mr. Mardimae reported that with increasing demand, the developer proposes to put a 40 to 50-unit apartment building for seniors adjacent to the retirement home, on the west side. Mr. Mardimae noted that the land was severed earlier this year which allows for a retirement home and some commercial uses. As the developers believe the proposed seniors’ apartment units fall somewhere in between the existing zoning permissible uses, thus the rezoning application has been made to clearly define it.
Mayor McGarvey invited those in opposition to the proposed ZBA to address Council.
Keith Smith addressed Council noting that he is not opposed to the development per se but questioned how many dedicated handicapped parking spots there would be if there are only 30 parking spaces for 50 or 60 units. Mr. Smith noted that government regulation calls for .04 dedicated handicapped parking spaces per unit, which only totals approximately 1.2 for the proposed development. Mr. Smith reported that he is a resident of The Gardens, and that there are 18 parking spots assigned for residents, 7 spots not assigned at all, and only 3 spots dedicated handicapped. Mr. Smith noted that there are two residents in wheelchairs and 16-17 people with handicapped permits and he suggested that therefore there should be 17 dedicated handicapped spots. Mr. Smith said that if the new building is going to have 30 parking spots, there should be dedicated handicapped parking over and above governmental regulations, i.e. with 50% of the spots marked for residents, and 30% of that 50% as dedicated handicapped parking.
Mr. Elgie reported that one letter has been received from Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP on behalf of Canadore College, expressing concerns with the definition of a retirement residence vs. apartment dwelling with the latter permitting any person to live there. The proposed reduced parking provisions may result in parking on Canadore property. Fasken Martineau DuMoulin requested that this technicality be addressed, or that the application its current form be denied.

2.2 – Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/15 – 32 Great North Road (Distler/Ambraska) Subsequent to an explanation of how the public was notified of application Z/19/15 – 32 Great North Road (Distler/Ambraska), Manager of Building & Planning Services Taylor Elgie gave an explanation of the purpose of the proposed rezoning from S.P. 26.109 to a R3 Zone. The property was zoned R3 prior to a recent rezoning, and the applicant wishes to return to R3 zoning status. Additionally, the applicant has requested a reduced parking space size of 2.7m x 6m. Previously the property was used as a fourplex, but this structure suffered a fire.
No members of the public were present to speak either in favour or in opposition to the proposed rezoning, and Mr. Elgie reported that no letters had been received.

2.3 – Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/16 – Dennis Drive and Macklaim Drive (Town of Parry Sound). Subsequent to an explanation of how the public was notified of application Z/19/16 –Dennis Drive and Macklaim Drive (Town of Parry Sound), Manager of Building & Planning Services Taylor Elgie explained that the Town proposes to rezone the subject properties from R1(h) to a R2 zone due to the recent installation of water, sewer and storm services. The properties were zoned with a holding provision to preclude development until municipal services were made available, which has occurred. The 20 properties are currently vacant.
Mayor McGarvey invited those in favour of the proposed ZBA to address Council.
Suzanne Young, resident on Macklaim Drive spoke in favour of the proposed rezoning noting that affordable housing is needed, and that with the location’s proximity to a local elementary school, it ought to attract young families. With the requirement for water, sewer and storm sewer availability, Ms. Young asked that sidewalks be included in any future development plans, and specifically that a sidewalk be installed on Macklaim Drive for pedestrians, including children walking to school, as the current design with the presence of the hill makes it dangerous for pedestrians.
No one spoke in opposition to the proposed ZBA and Mr. Elgie reported that no letters had been received either in favour or, or in opposition.
Mayor McGarvey concluded the public meeting with notice that objections to the passing of the amendments 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.

Questions of Staff

3.2.1 – In response to Councillor Borneman’s question regarding the status of the Wellness Centre Pool Complex, CAO Clayton Harris reported that a lot of progress has been made by the area municipalities working together collectively and agreeing earlier this year on three important issues: i.e. 1) a simplified decision making process for the 7 area municipalities and 2 First Nations; 2) undertaking due diligence before committing money towards a project that could cost as much as $25 million before grants; and 3) engaging a third party with expertise to undertake the due diligence. Mr. Harris reported that the due diligence is underway, and that while there has been much said on the issue of site selection, only about 1/3 of the consultant’s work is related to site selection, with the majority of work related to understanding what the community’s needs are, capital costs based on those needs and the location, servicing costs and a business plan to address operating costs once it is built.
Mr. Harris noted that the due diligence work was awarded to a qualified firm at the October 3rd, 2019 Council meeting, after all area municipalities had agreed on cost sharing for due diligence. Mr. Harris also noted that there is a federal-provincial grant available with a November 12 submission deadline, which could fund up to 70% of the project, and that efforts are focussed on getting that grant application in by November 12th.

3.2.2 – In response to Councillor Backman’s inquiry as to whether there was any plan for lighting the Town of Parry Sound sign on Highway 400 in the 2020 budget, Director of Public Works Peter Brown reported that the lighting is solar powered, has been there for as long as the sign has been there, and that he will be putting in to the 2020 budget funds to improve the intensity of the lighting there.

3.2.3 – In response to Councillor McCann’s inquiry as to who looks after the now deteriorated Parry Sound population sign on Oastler Park Drive, Mr. Brown reported that it is the provincial Ministry of Transportation responsibility, and that he will have a conversation with MTO to learn what their time frame is for repairing/replacing it.

Correspondence

4.1 – Bill Liggins. Request for Accessible Pedestrian Signal at Church-Isabella intersection. Circulated to Mayor & Council and Director of Public Works.

4.2 – Tom Dowswell. Suggestion that DSSAB budget go towards small business. Circulated to Mayor & Council.

4.3 – Belvedere Heights Home for the Aged. RE: Notice of Annual General Meeting – October 17th, 6:30 PM, Belvedere Heights. Circulated to Mayor & Council.

4.4 – Roger & Olga Little. Request for Waubeek Street speed reduction to 40 km/hour and stop sign at Wood St. Circulated to Mayor & Council and Director of Public Works.

Deputations

5.1 Bill Liggins. Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS). Mr. Liggins, resident on Winnifred Ave, addressed Council with a request for consideration in the 2020 budget for an audible pedestrian (APS) signal at the Isabella-Church intersection. Mr. Liggins contrasted the Isabella-Church intersection which has no APS, with that at James and Seguin, noting that the latter uses a beep, which directs the pedestrian to the button, which has a directional arrow. About halfway across, the APS on other side beeps, helping the person navigate across correctly.
Mr. Liggins noted that with the mega school proposed near the Isabella-Church intersection, there will be even more pedestrian traffic including elementary school aged children, a few who have vision loss and will need safe crossing. Mr. Liggins reported that there are approximately 80-84 people in Parry Sound who have identified themselves as blind or visually impaired with that number increasing in summer months, and that he is personally aware of 4 persons in the immediate area. Mr. Liggins noted that he would like to see the Town budget annually to have traffic lights throughout the Town include APS by year 2025 in order to meet AODA guidelines.
Moved – That Staff be directed to include for consideration in the 2020 budget, APS at the Isabella-Church intersection. Carried

5.2 – Roger Little. Waubeek Street maximum speed limit. Mr. Little addressed Council regarding safety concerns on Waubeek Street where he is resident. Mr. Little noted that prior to the reconstruction work on Waubeek Street, its condition had a speed calming effect, however now he and others believe that people drive too fast on it, exceeding by 10 or 20 km/hour the unposted default speed limit of 50 km/hour.
Mr. Little reported that he did not believe Waubeek Street could be similarly compared with Parry Sound Drive, Bowes, William and Church Streets, and identified features of Waubeek Street, such as its steep hill and curve which in other jurisdictions would warrant consideration of such a street for speed reduction. Mr. Little noted that Waubeek Street is susceptible to deer crossing from Georgian Bay, and that a 40 km/hour speed limit would reduce the risk of collision or injury from collision. Mr. Little also noted that Prospect Street is 40 km/hour to address safety concerns for pedestrians who walk to the beach in summer and questioned why this shouldn’t then also apply to Waubeek Street, which is the street access to Prospect Street.
Mr. Little concluded by noting that Waubeek Street is a busy road and advocating for the posting of the speed limit at 40 km/hour and putting a stop sign at Waubeek at Wood Street out of safety concerns for pedestrians.

Ratification of Matters from Closed Agenda

7.1 – Appeal the Denial of Taxi Driver’s Licence. Councillor Keith left room and did not participate in discussion. Resolution. That Council approve Applicant #001-2019’s appeal and grant a temporary Taxi Driver’s Licence; and directs the Issuer of Licences to issue the Applicant a six (6) month Probationary Taxi Driver’s Licence with conditions identified as confidential Schedule A. Carried.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.3.1 – Director of Public Works Selection – Sub-Committee of Council Appointments. Direction. That pursuant to the Town hiring policy, the Sub-Committee for the hiring of the Director of Public Works position be composed of the following Members of Council: Councillor Borneman, Councillor Horne, Councillor Keith. Carried.

9.3.2 – Parry Sound Founders Circle. Direction. That staff be directed to bring back a partnership agreement between the Founders Circle and the Town regarding the collection and administration of the funds, including issuing charitable receipts for the donations to the Parry Sound Founders Circle award; That the agreement specify that the funds must be donated to the Town, are held in a Town bank account, and the Town has sole discretion on disbursements; and That the Town create a specific Reserve for the funds; and That the payment of the award be made based upon the recommendation by the Parry Sound Founders Circle to the Town. Carried.

9.3.3 – 2020 Council Meeting Dates. Resolution. That pursuant to By-law 2018-6814, Section 3, paragraph 4, Council approves Schedule “A” as attached, the 2020 schedule of Regular Meetings of Council. Councillor Keith requested a recorded vote. (JB Note – all voted No). Defeated.
The following motion was made: Resolution. That pursuant to By-law 2018-6814, Section 3, paragraph 4, Council approves Schedule “A” as attached, the 2020 schedule of Regular Meetings of Council, based on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month with the usual exceptions of January and August. Carried.

9.3.4 – Strategic Plan Resources. Direction. That staff be authorized to single source the resources necessary to undertake the updating of the Town’s Strategic Plan in the amount of $17,000. Carried.

9.4.1 – 2020 Budgeting Schedule. Resolution. That Council hereby approves the 2020 Budgeting Schedule as set out in the attached Schedule “A”. Carried.

9.5.1 Skatepark. Resolution. Whereas Council through the 2019 Budget, approved the development of a comprehensive Parks & Recreation Master Plan, and Whereas the 2019 budget also allocated $30,000 towards skatepark resurfacing and expansion; and Whereas it may be advantageous to await the results of the Parks & Recreation Master Plan with respect to a skatepark Now therefore be it resolved that Council put the Skatepark resurfacing and expansion project on hold. Carried.

By-laws

10.1.1 – Encroachment Agreement – 5 Gibson Street. By-law 2019 – 6978. Being a by-law to execute an encroachment agreement with the owner of 5 Gibson Street. Carried.

10.2.1 – Official Plan Amendment No. 3 and Rezoning Application Z/19/06 – Smith Crescent (YMCA/Wickman). By-Law 2019 – 6974. Being a By-law to Adopt Official Plan Amendment No. 3 – Smith Crescent (YMCA/Wickman). Carried.
By-Law 2019 – 6975. Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for Rezoning Application Z/19/06 – Smith Crescent (YMCA/Wickman). Carried.
Resolution 2019 – 117. That the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute a consent agreement as per Parry Sound Area Planning Board Resolution 2019-061 for application B/04/2019 (PS). Carried

10.2.2 – Rezoning Application – Z/19/13 – 17 Miller Street (Walsh/Ben Prichard Law Corporation). By-Law: 2019 – 6976. Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for 17 Miller Street (Walsh/Ben Prichard Law Corporation). Carried.

10.3.1 – Procedural By-law Update – Permit WCPC electronic participants voting rights. Resolution . Whereas the Wellness Centre Pool Committee established by the seven area municipalities is desirous of enabling electronic participants to vote at its open meetings; and Whereas the Town`s Procedural By-law 2018-6814 does not permit electronic participant voting at Council, nor at its boards and committees; and, Whereas proposed By-law 2019-6977 updates the Procedural By-law with minor amendments: i.e. permitting Council by resolution to authorize as it sees fit electronic participants of committees to vote; and making minor housekeeping amendments;
Now Therefore Council waives the 21-day public notice provision of amendments to the Procedural By-law as normally required by Provision of Notice Policy as contained in Resolution 2011- 242. Carried.
By-law 2019 – 6977. Being a By-law to govern and regulate the proceedings of Council of The Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound, its Committees and where applicable, its Boards and to repeal By-law 2018-6814. Carried.
Resolution 2019 – 119. THAT pursuant to By-law 2019 – 6977, Council authorizes electronic participating members of the Wellness Centre and Pool Committee as established by Resolution 2019-087, to vote at its open meetings. Carried

10.4.1 – Renewal of lease with Strong-Sundridge-Joly Arena & Hall for POA Court. By-Law 2019 – 6973. Being a By-law to authorize the execution of an agreement with the Corporations of the Township of Strong, Village of Sundridge and Township of Joly, operators of the Sundridge-Strong-Joly Arena and Hall and the Town of Parry Sound, Administrators of the Provincial Offences Court, for the leasing of court facilities. Carried.