Tag Archives: Planning

Royal Bank Free to Move to South End

24 Tuesday Apr 2018

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At a hearing two weeks ago the Ontario Municipal Board, now called the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal, decided to dismiss the appeal of the Parry Sound Mall regarding the relocation of the RBC to the south end. This means all appeals have been exhausted and the RBC can move to the Oastler Park development beside the Walmart.

I understand that the Parry Sound Mall’s presentation was less than compelling. I sat in for the first twenty minutes of the appeal and realizing that it was game over headed back to work. I hope the Downtown is prepared to deal with the consequences of this decision and what is likely to follow.

Council Agenda Preview – April 3, 2018

30 Friday Mar 2018

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Things are again light this coming week. A few points worth noting:

Closed Session a) – I wonder what’s up with this Oastler Park Drive property. The Town purchased this property for several hundred thousand dollars last year. I was refused information on why the Town purchased the property and its future plans. It’s our money and their secret.

4.1 – Letter / Splash Pad discussion. I agree with the writer’s question about the timing for the start of serious splash pad discussions. The concept of connecting discussions for a splash pad with a municipal pool complex seems strange for all sorts of reasons, unless of course there are thoughts about a pool complex in the vicinity of Waubuno Beach. Then it all makes sense, but I don’t think so.

10.3.1 – Ontario’s Main Street Revitalization Initiative Transfer Payment. This is a very nice $43K present from the Province that is intended for use to ‘spruce up’ the Town.

The more material items on the agenda are listed below.

Closed Session

a) the security of property of the municipality or local board (property on Oastler Park Drive, Various Economic Initiatives)
b) personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees (Licensing Appeal, Recruitment)

Correspondence

4.1 – Chris Cardy, resident. Letter regarding both the proposed splash pad and the pool complex. Is asking why they cannot be dealt with separately.

4.3 – BDO Planning Report. Audit Plan for the consolidated financial statements of The Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound for the year ending December 31, 2017

Deputations

5.1 – Dianna Allen, Rick Harrington and Delaina Arnold, Parry Sound Area Food Collaborative. Raising of Backyard Chickens

5.2 – Anne Bossart. Update on Tower Hill Activities

5.3 – Stuart Morley of PSM Community Net. Graham Porter of Network Space. Town Crier WiFi Project for downtown Parry Sound.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 Commencement of Fees and Charges By-law for the Installation of Water, Sewer and Storm Services. Resolution. Whereas Lots 7-15, 37-41, and 43-48 of Plan M405 are zoned with a Holding Provision which precludes development until municipal water and sewer services are delivered to the subject properties; and Whereas the majority of property owners and Town of Parry Sound Council wish to see the lots serviced to facilitate residential development. Now therefore be it resolved that Town Council:
1. Directs staff to initiate the tender process to provide water, sewer and storm sewer services to the properties;
2. Authorizes that the project will initially be paid for by the Town of Parry Sound through the General Working Reserve;
3. Directs staff to prepare a Fees and Charges By-law that will recover the costs of the infrastructure from the benefitting property owners;
4. Agrees to pay for the engineering report and legal costs of the project; and
5. Directs staff to remove the “h” symbol for all eligible lots.

9.2.1 – Election Sign By-law – Draft #2 Direction. That staff be directed to bring back the draft Election Sign By-law to the May1st, 2018 Council Meeting, for disposition by Council after the 14-day public notice period so the public may have the opportunity to provide comments.

9.4.1 – Georgian Bay Forever Request for Town assistance with a Pilot Project. Resolution. That upon the review of the documentation provided by Georgian Bay Forever, the Town of Parry Sound support, in principle, their pilot project to identify the amount of microplastics/fibres that enter the waterways from washing synthetic materials used in clothing; and That the Town of Parry Sound allow limited, guided access to the Town Wastewater Treatment Plant at times convenient to staff to take collections and samples; and That any promotion for the project be the responsibility of Georgian Bay Forever; and That Georgian Bay Forever take full responsibility for any involvement with the public related to the installation and any ongoing maintenance of any filters on private property.

9.4.1 – Tender for Grass Seed. Resolution. That Council accept the quotation from Speare Seeds for 2030 kgs of grass seed in the amount of $9,706 including HST, this quotation being the lowest quotation of five (5) received.

By-laws

10.3.1 – Ontario’s Main Street Revitalization Initiative Transfer Payment Agreement. By-law 2018 – 6822. A By-law to authorize the execution of a Transfer Payment Agreement between Her Majesty the Queen in right of the Province of Ontario (as represented by the Association of the Municipalities of Ontario) and the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound on the Ontario’s Main Street Revitalization Initiative.

10.3.2 – Extension of Time to Pay Tax Arrears with the owner of 107.5 Church Street in Parry Sound. By-law 2018 – 6823. Being a by-law to authorize an agreement for an extension of time to pay tax arrears for property roll number 4932 050 003 15210 0000.

10.4.1 – Weeks Construction Inc. Contract – Waubeek Street. By-law 2018 – 6824. Being a bylaw to authorize the execution of a Contract Agreement between Weeks Construction Inc. and the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound for the reconstruction of Waubeek Street.

 

Council Agenda Preview – March 20, 2018

15 Thursday Mar 2018

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There are a large number of agenda items. I have ‘slimmed down’ the items to those that I think are most relevant in terms of the Correspondence and Resolutions and Directions to Staff. There has been no abridging of the Deputations and By-Laws. A few items stick out and are worth clarification or a short comment.

2.1.1 – This relates to a property that is in “Town” but doesn’t have clear access to municipal sewer services, or will be burdened with considerable expense to connect to the town system. I’m not sure I would like to have a neighbouring property, possibly a multi-residence rental property, operating a septic system behind my backyard.

9.4.2 – Weeks Construction is getting the contract for a significant portion of the Waubeek Street reconstruction. Given Fowler Construction’s performance on Emily Street it seems they were not gong to get this contract despite winning the past few.

9.5.1 – It looks as though the Splash Pad, if it goes forward, will be situated at Waubuno Beach. That makes sense to me.

10.5.1 – This concerns lease of waterfront property adjacent to the OPP facility that the Town purchased last year, presumably in anticipation of eventual waterfront development. The proposed lease is for three years so nothing is happening anytime soon.

Check out the full agenda at the Town’s website if you want to see all agenda items and details along with the supporting Staff reports.

Closed Session

(e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals affecting the municipality or local board (Official Plan Amendment No. 1 Appeal)

Public Meeting

2.1.1 – Council will hold a public meeting to consider a proposed Zoning By-law amendment under Section 34 of the Planning Act, as amended. The subject property is a vacant lot on Hanna Road, known as southern part of Lot 57 on RCP 338, or more particularly described as Parts 2 and 3 of 42R20780, in the Town of Parry Sound. The property proposed for rezoning is shown on the attached Location Map. The applicant has requested relief from the Residential Second Density Zone to permit residential development that is not on municipal sewer services.

Correspondence

4.1 – Parry Sound Recreation Complex Committee. Providing an update on appointed members and 1st meeting will be in April 2018

4.2 – Splash Pad Committee. Thanking Council for contribution and requesting a designated spot for the splashpad.

4.3 – Georgian Bay Forever. Diversion of microplastics/fibres from the waters of Georgian Bay through a pilot project

Deputations

5.1 – Georgian Bay Forever. Requesting the participation of Parry Sound in 2 pilot projects, diversion and measurement of change in quantity of microplastics in wastewater.

Consent Agenda

8.1 – 2017 Integrity Commissioners Report. Resolution. Whereas the Council, Boards and Committees Code of Conduct stipulates that the Integrity Commissioner shall file his/her annual report regarding any activities to Council no later than March 31st of each year; and That should there be no complaints/investigations for the year, in this case, 2017, then the Clerk shall report to Council accordingly; Therefore, the Clerk reports that the former Integrity Commissioner, George Rust-D’Eye and the current Integrity Commissioner Harold Elston, have reported that there were no formal complaints filed nor investigations conducted in the year 2017.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 – Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA). Resolution. That the Council of the Town of Parry Sound accept the bid from Dependable Emergency Vehicles in the amount of $194,682.12 +taxes for the supply of 18 SCBA, 36 additional air bottles and ancillary equipment.

9.4.1. – 2017 Water System Summary Report. Resolution. Whereas the Town of Parry Sound owns and operates the Parry Sound Drinking Water System (M.O.E. Designation Number 2200000585) which has been categorized as a “Large Residential” Drinking Water System, and Whereas Ontario Regulation 170-03 (as amended) under the Safe Drinking Water Act requires, according to “Schedule 22 Summary Reports for Municipalities” that all large Municipal Residential Drinking water systems have a report prepared no later than March 31st of each year addressing the items detailed in the Regulation and is given to the members of Council in the case of a drinking water system owned by a municipality; Therefore, be it resolved that Council of the Town of Parry Sound hereby acknowledges receipt of the report titled: “Town of Parry Sound Tony Agnello Water Treatment Plan, Large Municipal Residential Drinking Water System Summary Report 2017”, as prepared by Kyle Hall, Manager of Water Systems.

9.4.2. – Waubeek Street Reconstruction Tender Results. Resolution. That upon the recommendation of C. C. Tatham and Associates, Council award the tender for Waubeek and Prospect Street Reconstruction to Weeks Construction Inc., in the amount of $5,101,291.00 plus HST, this tender being the lowest of four (4) tenders received.

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

By-laws

10.1.1 – West Parry Sound Emergency Plan 2018. By-law 2018 – 6813. Being a by-law to adopt an Emergency Management Program and Emergency Response Plan for the West Parry Sound Area and to meet other Requirements under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act.

10.2.1 – Disposition of Amended Procedural By-law. By-law 2018 – 6814. 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 2015-6573.

10.2.2 – Separate By-law for Election Signage. Direction. That staff be directed to bring back the draft Election Sign By-law to the April 17th, 2018 Council Meeting, for disposition by Council after the 14-day public notice period so the public may have the opportunity to provide comments.

10.3.1 – Business Improvement Area (BIA) Levy By-law – Downtown Business Area. By-law 2018 – 6815. Being a By-law to adopt the estimates of the Board of Management of the Downtown Parry Sound Business Improvement Area and to strike the Tax Rate thereon for the year 2018

10.5.1 – Chantler Barging Ltd. Lease Agreement/Renewal – 3 Bay Street. By-law 2018 – 6816. Being a By-law to authorize the execution of a lease renewal agreement between Chantler Barging Ltd. and the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound.

10.5.2 – Rezoning Application – Z/18/1 – 60 and 60a Seguin Street (Themer). By-law 2018 – 6812. Being a By-law to amend By-law 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for 60 and 60a Seguin Street (Themer)

10.5.3 – Rezoning Application – Z/18/2 – 128 Gibson Street (Corkins). By-law 2018-6817. Being a By-law to amend By-law 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for 128 Gibson Street (Corkins).

10.5.4 – Custodial Services for Parry Sound Fire Station. By-law 2018 – 6818. Being a by-law to authorize an agreement with Bernie Filiatrault Janitorial for Custodial Services for the Parry Sound Fire Station.

10.5.5 – Artists Round the Sound Agreement. By-law 2018 – 6819. Being a By-law to enter into an agreement with the Artists Round the Sound (ARTS) for the rental of wall space at the Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts. Direction (For Direct Staff Follow-up): That Council direct staff to prepare a Request for Proposal for an art exhibit at the Stockey Centre at the conclusions of the ARTS Agreement.

10.5.6 – Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation Intern Agreement. By-law 2018 – 6820. Being a By-law to authorize the execution of an agreement between the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) and the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound accepting the terms and conditions of the approval of the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame Project Development Intern.

 

Council Agenda Preview – March 6, 2018

04 Sunday Mar 2018

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Once again, we have a light agenda for this week’s council meeting. The more notable items include:

9.1.1 – Town of Parry Sound/Parry Sound Area Planning Board. Resolution. A necessary step it seems for the Town to get greater control of it’s own Official Plan amendments.

9.2.1 – Resolution. Staff 2018 Goal Plans Summary. I haven’t gone through the goals but I find them to be a good summary of what is going to get done, or not, for the current year. I’ll take a look at them at some point and provide comments in a separate post.

10.5.2 – By-law. Department of Canadian Heritage – Cultural Spaces Canada – Funding Agreement. The Town has received a grant of $580,000 that helps offset the $1.4 million cost of the Stockey Centre renovations.

Closed Session

d) labour relations or employee negotiations. (Update on Union Grievances)

k) information explicitly supplied in confidence to the municipality or local board by Canada, a province or territory or a Crown agency of any of them; (Infrastructure Funding)

Public Meeting

2.1.1 – Council will hold a public meeting to consider a proposed Zoning By-law amendment under Section 34 of the Planning Act, as amended. The subject property is known as 60 and 60a Seguin Street, or Part of Reserve and Part of Lot 1 on Plan 86, Part of Waubeek Street on Plan 2, more particularly described as Part 1 of 42T16527, in the Town of Parry Sound. The applicant has requested relief from the Residential Second Density Zone to fulfill a condition of consent. Reduced frontage, access, parking and yard requirements are requested as a result of the provisional severance.

2.1.2 – Council will continue the public meeting to consider an additional proposed amendment to the Zoning By-law under Section 34 of the Planning Act, as amended. The subject property is known as 128 Gibson Street, or Lot 7 and part of Lot 8 on the westside of Gibson Street on Plan 62, in the Town of Parry Sound. The applicant has requested relief from the Residential Second Density Zone to permit an additional dwelling unit above a proposed detached garage.

Correspondence

4.1 – Rebecca Pollock, Chair, Parry Sound Area Active Transportation. Appreciation for the Town’s snow removal efforts

4.2 Mike Rivard, Acting Correspondence Manager, Minister of Natural Resources, Jim Carr’s Office. Letter thanking Parry Sound for our correspondence regarding invasive species in the Great Lakes. The Town’s letter has been forwarded to the Office of the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard and the Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change.

Consent Agenda 

8.1 – Appointment to the Parry Sound Downtown Business Association Board of Directors. Resolution. That upon the recommendation of the Parry Sound Downtown Business Association Board of Directors, Mike Puro be appointed to the Board of Directors to represent the downtown business Above and Beyond; and That the term of office ends November 30, 2018 per the term of Parry Sound Council.

8.2 – 2018 Nomination of Mayor McGarvey for the Ontario Small Urban Municipalities’ (OSUM) Executive Committee – Term 2018-2020. Resolution. That Mayor McGarvey be nominated to the Ontario Small Urban Municipalities’ Executive Committee for the term 2018-2020.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 – Town of Parry Sound/Parry Sound Area Planning Board. Resolution. That Council request the municipal members of the Parry Sound Area Planning Board for a Resolution supporting the Town’s intention to withdraw from the Parry Sound Area Planning Board.

9.2.1 – Staff 2018 Goal Plans Summary. Resolution. That the 2018 Staff Goal Plan Summary, attached as Schedule “A”, be approved.

9.5.1 – 2018 Municipal Assistance Program Allocation. Resolution. That Council approve the 2018 Municipal Assistance Program allocations per Schedule “A” attached.

By-laws

10.2.1 – West Parry Sound Joint Election Compliance Audit Committee Terms of Reference and Appointments. By-law. Being a by-law to authorize the establishment of the West Parry Sound Joint Election Compliance Audit Committee and to repeal By-law 2010-5489. Resolution. That subject to the approval by the five member Councils of the Township of McKellar, Municipality of McDougall, Township of The Archipelago, Township of Carling, and Township of Seguin, Parry Sound Council appoint the following people to the West Parry Sound Joint Election Compliance Audit Committee for the 2018-2022 term of Council: Peter Spadzinski, Sandy Eddington, Larry Simmons, Judy Keown (Alternate)

10.3.1 – Gas Tax Funding Agreement. By-law. Being a By-law to authorize the execution of a Letter of Agreement between Her Majesty the Queen in right of the Province of Ontario (as represented by the Minister of Transportation) and the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound under the Dedicated Gas Tax Funds for the Public Transportation Program.

10.5.1 – Memorandum of Understanding – Parks & Recreation Ontario: Youth. By-law. Being a bylaw to authorize the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding between Parks & Recreation Ontario (on behalf of Play Works) and the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound under the Youth Action/Advisory Council Development project.

10.5.2 – Department of Canadian Heritage – Cultural Spaces Canada – Funding Agreement. By-law. Being a By-law to authorize the execution of a funding agreement with the Department of Canadian Heritage – Cultural Spaces Canada – for the Stockey Centre roof and siding renovations.

 

 

Council Agenda Preview – September 19, 2017

17 Sunday Sep 2017

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

Worth Noting:

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

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

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

Closed Session:

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

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

Correspondence

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

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

Deputations

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

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

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

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

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

By-laws

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

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

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

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

Council Agenda Preview – September 5, 2017

05 Tuesday Sep 2017

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

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

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

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

Closed Session Agenda Topics

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

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

Correspondence

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

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

Deputations

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

Consent Agenda

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

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

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

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

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

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

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

By-laws

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

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

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

Council Agenda Preview – July 18, 2017

16 Sunday Jul 2017

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This is a very slim agenda with no by-laws to be reviewed an approved. There are a few surprises but nothing of concern, a bit of real estate buy and sell comes to mind. The key items are listed below.

Closed Agenda

  1. b) personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees (Parry Sound DBA Governance, DBA Correspondence)
  2. c) a proposed or pending acquisition of land for municipal or local board purposes. (Waterfront)

Correspondence

 4.1–  David Penfold, Pointe Au Baril resident. Request to have the words Parry Sound or Welcome to Parry Sound put on the north end water tower located in McDougall.

4.2 – Jane Jones, Chair, Artists Round the Sound (ARTS). Thank you note to Council for the 2017 grant through the Municipal Assistance Program (MAP).

4.4 – Elliot Sherman, Project and Construction Manager, SYN*MH LTD. Thank you letter for Council’s support of his company’s intention to carry out research, design and construction of the micro-home prototypes.

Deputations

5.1 – Andrea Gordon and Andrew Parker, (OPSEU) We Own. The costs of privatization vs. the benefits of public services.

5.2 – Ingrid Mueller, Chair and Neil Pirie, Manager, Parry Sound Area Airport Commission. Rehabilitation of runways at the Parry Sound Area Airport Commission.

Consent Agenda

8.1 – Support for Natural Gas Grant for the Township of Seguin. Resolution. Whereas the Township of Seguin wishes to expand access to natural gas within the Township; and Whereas one of the Strategic Priorities for Council for the Town of Parry Sound is West Parry Sound Area Cooperation; Therefore, Be It Resolved That Council for the Town of Parry Sound supports the Township of Seguin’s resolution, attached as Schedule “A”, for an application to be submitted by a natural gas distributor or supplier to the Government of Ontario, for a grant from the provincial Natural Gas Grant Program to expand the natural gas system to service the Township of Seguin; and Further that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Township of Seguin to be included with the application to Ontario’s Natural Gas Grant Program.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 – 2016 Reserve and Reserve Fund Transfers at Year End. Resolution.
1. That Council approves the transfers to and from Reserves as summarized in Schedule “A”;
2. That Council approves the transfers to and from Reserve Funds as summarized in Schedule “B”;
3. That 2015 and 2016 capital projects which were funded from reserves may be completed in 2017 as previously budgeted, as these projects were previously approved and do not impact the 2017 levy requirements.

9.1.2 – Proposed Provincial Asset Management Planning Regulation. Direction (For Direct Staff Follow-up). That the Director of Finance and POA Court Services send a letter to the Province of Ontario outlining that Council supports the MFOA letter dated July 4, 2017 regarding the proposed regulation EBR 013-0551, and that the proposed requirement for engineering certification should be amended.

9.3.1 – Tender – BOCC Dehumidifier. Resolution. That Council accept the tender from Cimco Refrigeration for the supply and install of one (1) RefPlus DDE-2500 Ice Rink Desiccant Dehumidifier, for a total of $31, 523.61, including HST.

9.3.3 – Consent Application – B 17/2017 (PS) – Halvorson. Resolution. That Consent Application No. B 17/2017 (PS) – Halvorson – Addie Street, be supported subject to the following conditions:
1. Payment for cash-in-lieu of parkland dedication in the amount of $5,354.00
2. An easement be dedicated over the private water/sewer lines in favour of the retained lands.

9.6.1 – Town Property – Parry Sound Drive. Direction. That the Principal Planner be directed to bring a Report & Recommendation to the September 19th Council Meeting regarding the potential sale and redevelopment, and rezoning if necessary, of the Town-owned property identified as a portion of the Parry Sound Drive road allowance to the west of Parts 2-4 of 42R19097 and to the west of Part 1 of 42R19887, being a portion of PIN: 52105 0429 along Parry Sound Drive.

Council Agenda Preview – June 20, 2017

18 Sunday Jun 2017

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It’s a very, very light agenda this week. The points of interest include:

  • Formation of the Belvedere Avenue Parking Ad-Hoc Committee (1.2).
  • Goal Plan Update (4.1).
  • 2016 Annual Investment Report (5.1)
  • Wasauksing Bridge Restriction (6.1)
  • Claw Back Percentages (5.1)

Depending on the weather I’ll either be at the meeting or out on a trail. It’s that time of the year where you had better have a good reason to attend a council meeting. Getting paid to attend qualifies as a good enough reason.

Correspondence

4.1 – Harry Kleinhuis, Rosseau resident. Concerns about the lack of sidewalks on Pine Drive. Response provided was that the property is private.

4.3/8.1 – Susan Hrycyna, ED, Parry Sound Downtown Business Association. Re: Request to add a member to the Board of Directors for the DBA

Deputations

5.1 – Vanessa Backman, Parry Sound Tourism. Update on Parry Sound Tourism for 2017

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.2 – Belvedere Avenue Parking Ad-Hoc Committee. Resolution. That Council approve the Belvedere Avenue Parking Ad-hoc Committee Terms of Reference, attached as Schedule “A”, and further; That Council appoint the following members to sit on the committee:

  1. Marsha Rivers, CEO, Belvedere Heights Home for the Aged
    2. Mario Buszynski, Board Member, Belvedere Heights Home for the Aged
  2. Kathleen McGill, Home owner, Belvedere Avenue
  3. John Patterson, Home owner, Belvedere Avenue
  4. Representative, DSSAB
  5. Representative, DSAAB

9.2.1 – Council Approved Sign Application – Georgian Bay Airways – Bay St. Resolution. That pursuant to section 3.(4) of the Sign By-law, the Chief Building Official is authorized to issue a permit for a sign on the Bay Street road allowance pursuant to the following conditions and variances:
a) The appearance of the sign shall be substantially according to the application,
b) The location of the sign shall be to the satisfaction of the Chief Building Official,
c) The Town reserves the right to remove or relocate the sign on occasion should the lands be required for municipal purposes,
d) A permit may be issued pursuant to this resolution, for the summer of 2018, 2019, and 2020 upon payment of a fee of $50 per season,
e) The 2017 permit pursuant to this resolution shall expire on October 31, and
f) All other regulations in the sign by-law continue to apply except for those revised by this resolution.

9.2.2 – Permit minor variances within two years of a zoning by-law amendment. Resolution. That in accordance with Section 45 (1.4) of the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. P.13, minor variance applications are permitted before the second anniversary of the day of a zoning by-law amendment.

9.4.1 – Goal Plan Update – 2nd Quarter. Resolution. That Council approves the June, 2017 Second Quarter Goal Plan update, attached as Schedule “A”.

9.5.1 – 2016 Annual Investment Report. Resolution. That Council accepts the 2016 Annual Investment Report, attached as Schedule “A”, in accordance with the Town’s Investment Policy.

9.6.1 – Wasauksing Swing Bridge Restrictions. Direction. That a follow-up letter be sent to the Ministry of Transportation regarding the planned restrictions to the operation of the Wasauksing swing bridge.

By-laws

10.5.1 – By-law to specify claw back percentages for 2017 property taxes. By-law 2017 – 6749. Being a by-law to Specify the “Claw-back Percentages” in Respect of Properties in the Commercial Class for the 2017 Taxation Year.
I don’t get it, but the amount is too small, $824, to worry about. I’ll need to ask for a tutorial on the whole claw-back process.

Honeysuckle Blooming along the Rotary Algonquin Regiment Fitness Trail (June 2017)

 

 

Council Agenda Preview – June 6, 2017

04 Sunday Jun 2017

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Closed Session

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

Correspondence

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

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

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

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

Deputations

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

5.2 – Margaret Walton. Regarding Habitat for Humanity.

Consent Agenda

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

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

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

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

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

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

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

By-laws

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

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

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

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

Columbine on the North Shore Rugged Trail (May 2017)

 

 

 

Council Agenda Preview – May 16, 2017 (Revised)

14 Sunday May 2017

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2017-05-15 9:00 PM: The original post has been edited to correct and expand certain points based on additional information received in the past 24-hours related to the purchase of property at 3 Bay Street. The original text remains with a strikethrough. The new text is underlined.

This week’s council meeting has a few items that caught my attention. There is correspondence (4.1) as well as deputations (5.1 & 5.2) directed to the activities of the Parry Sound Downtown Business Association. This is consistent with Council’s recent request for an update on the DBA’s plans and actions.

I have made a few comments on the south end Park to Park Trail agenda item (9.1.2). In a related matter, there was a short mention in the Staff R&R that the extension of Parry Sound Road to Oastler Park Drive feasibility study was “put on temporary hold”. The issue of deprioritizing the Parry Sound Road extension was discussed at the last meeting of Council, but no background was provided for the delay beyond that it was a closed session topic. This road extension would be a necessary improvement to support a casino in Parry Sound, so one would wonder if the casino is on the back burner. Some information may be revealed at the Town’s Review and Prioritization of the Town’s Strategic Plan on May 30 starting at 6:00 (Town Office).

I also offer some comments on the Town’s Park Management and Maintenance Plan that might be worth a look if you are interested in the Stockey Centre (9.2.3).

The Town continues to buy up property along the harbour waterfront, in this case the property between the OPP/Service Ontario building and Big Sound Marina (9.5.1). This is the same property as was originally labeld as the Darlington Boathouse. The price being paid is $862,000 which is consistent with the value as assessed by MPAC. An interesting clause in the resolution states that the funds for the purchase, which are taken from the Legacy Fund, will be repaid to the fund should the property be resold. Taken together with the recent purchase of the Darlington boathouse property, and the With the Feds divesting Big Sound Marina, it appears that there may be some near term commercial development planned for this section of the waterfront. When I asked the Town for additional information on the purchase of the Darlington property my request was shot down with the statement that the documents are confidential and would not be provided to me. Something’s going on and it’s a secret. Shhhh! The Town has released to the Public and posted to Town’s website today a copy of the announcement of the Darlington Boathouse purchase that was released to media outlets last month, but not to the Public. Here’s a link to the press release at the Town’s website.

Correspondence

4.1 – Dan DiNicolo, Business Owner. Suggestions regarding the operation of the Downtown Business Association

4.4 – Phillis M. Drury, resident. Questions about naming an island on Georgian Bay.

Deputations

5.1 – Daryl McMurray, President, Susan Hyrcyna, Executive Administrator, Parry Sound Downtown Business Association. Update on DBA’s activities regarding the Downtown Sustainability Report

5.2 – Dan DiNicolo, Business Owner. Suggestions regarding the operation of the Downtown Business Association

5.3 – Bill Parks, President of the South Seguin Snow Mobile Club and Vice-President of the Board for the Park to Park Trail Association. Park to Park Trail south end blockage.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 – CN Station Sale. Resolution. That Council accepts the offer from Umair Ahmed Sharif for the purchase of the C.N. Station and property located at 1 Station Road, Parry Sound, in the amount of $100,500.00, this purchase offer being the highest offer of three offers received through Royal Lepage; and Further, that Council directs staff to retain the services of a solicitor to prepare the final Agreement of Purchase and Sale; and Further, that the net proceeds from the sale be placed in the Capital Asset Legacy Reserve fund.
We knew this was in the works. Lets hope the property gets the attention and investment that it deserves. It’s worth noting that the property had an MPAC assessed value of $277,000, and that number was the basis of the Chamber of Commerce’s rental agreement. It seems someone was paying too much.

9.1.2 – Park to Park Trail South End Blockage. Resolution. That in response to concerns from the Park to Park Trail Association and OFSCA regarding potential encroachment (allegedly created by Rona in Parry Sound) of municipal property known as the Parry Sound Colonization Road, and specifically the road allowance on or next to Lot 147, Concession A, West Parry Sound District, staff undertake to have a survey completed of where the most southerly points of the RONA property meet the Town’s road allowance; and Further, that staff take appropriate action to ensure free and clear occupancy of the property.
A note to Staff – black and white map of 09.1.2-ATT#1 sure is confusing. What is labeled as Highway 69 is now Bowes Street.  Are you sure that the original trail, the old colonization road, shouldn’t actually follow the dotted lines to what is now Oastler Park Drive, rather than head in from Bowes Street through what is now Rona?

9.2.3 – Parks Management and Maintenance Plan. Resolution. That Council approve the Parks Management and Maintenance Plan, per Schedule “A” attached.
This is a very comprehensive plan of action that is to be commended. There is one very obvious oversight – the Stockey Centre is not included on any of the plans. And it shows when you visit the Stockey Centre. The inside of the concert hall is first class while the grounds look like a former oil tanker field. The reason for why Waubuno Beach looks so much better is that the Stockey Centre is a non-union facility, and as a result Town Staff will not work on the property. That means the Town is required to hire a private contractor to maintain the property. And because the Stockey Centre operates at a loss there is little interest in paying for anything more than the bare minimum. As the current leader of the free world would Tweet: “Sad”.

9.4.1 – Service Line Warranty of Canada Program – Privacy Statement. Resolution. That Council for the Town of Parry Sound approve the Water & Sewer Account Privacy Statement and Notice of Collection, attached as Schedule “A”.
The cost is $73/year sewer, $64/year water, indoor plumbing $73/year. You can apparently choose one or more of the services. You may also want to check with local plumbers, or your insurance company, to see if they are able to offer similar warranty coverage. It’s better to buy local, but it may not be an option.

9.5.1 – Funding Land Purchases – Capital Asset Legacy Reserve Fund. Resolution. That Council hereby approves the use of $862,000 from the Capital Asset Legacy Reserve Fund for the purchase of properties located at 3 Bay Street; and Further, that any proceeds recognized on the disposal of said property up to $862,000 shall first be used to replenish the Capital Asset Legacy Reserve Fund.
This is the property between the OPP Station and the Big Sound Marina. It’s currently being used by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry. This is the Darlington Boathouse property that was previously approved for purchase by Council and is also referred to as 3 Bay Street.

9.5.2 – Provincial Offences Act (POA) Write-offs. Resolution. That Council for the Town of Parry Sound, hereby approves the write-offs for the Provincial Offences Act Court outlined in Schedule “A” attached.
The amount in question is about $220,000 and it is from the 1991-1995 era. See, it pays to ignore those fines. Going forward the Town may be able to apply a little more pressure on those who refuse to pay their Provincial Offense Act fines by denying these folks the ability to renew their vehicle license plate registration.

By-laws

10.2.1 – Request for Deeming by-law – 22 Victoria Avenue and Lot 12 of Plan 123. By-law 2017 – 6739. Being a by-law to deem certain lots in the Town of Parry Sound not to be part of a registered Plan of Subdivision (MacDonald – 22 Victoria Avenue).

10.2.2 – Rezoning Application – Z/17/3 – 24 Addie Street (Habitat for Humanity). Consent Application – B/5/2017 (Habitat for Humanity). By-law 2017 – 6740. Being a by-law to amend by-law 2004-4653 (The Zoning by-law), as amendment, for 24 Addie Street (Habitat for Humanity).
Resolution. That Consent Application No. B/5/2017(PS) – Habitat for Humanity, be supported subject to conditions of consent which require:

  1. The payment of $2,677.00 for cash-in-lieu of parkland dedication.
  2. That the applicant enter into a site plan agreement with the Town of Parry Sound which requires wooden privacy fence and the driveway construction as per Attachment #3. The Mayor and Clerk will be authorized to execute the agreement. That the property be successfully rezoned to ensure compliance with the Zoning bylaw; and
  3. That the applicant be advised that each proposed lot requires individual water and sewer connections.

10.5.1 – Striking tax rates for fiscal year 2017. By-law 2017 – 6742. Being a bylaw to Strike the Tax Rates for Municipal Purposes for the Year 2017.

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

I was out of town for the last meeting of Council and watched it later on YouTube. That was great and I offer my thanks to Staff and Council for making the meeting proceedings available online. I do have a couple of suggestions:

  1. Increase the volume of the audio on the feed. It’s too low.
  2. Councillor Borneman needs to speak a little closer to the microphone. The same goes for Ms. Middaugh. The other councillors came through loud and clear.

No need to improve the video, it isn’t great, but it’s more than adequate. What is important is the audio, and it needs some fine tuning.

I’m going to catch this week’s meeting in person. The deputations should be interesting.

Our Parry Sound