Tag Archives: Planning

Council Agenda Preview – December 18, 2018

16 Sunday Dec 2018

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I initially thought that the meeting on the 18thwould simply be a public meeting to get public opinion on the retail cannabis stores but it seems to be a full meeting of Council. I provided my written comments to the Town regarding the retail cannabis store issue a month ago. I support the establishment of a cannabis retail store presence in Parry Sound. It seems that it will be some time before Parry Sound might see a commercial presence based on a recent announcement that the Province intends to start with only 25 retail stores. I suspect that Parry Sound won’t be among the twenty-five. The local cannabis black market will be secure for at least another year or two.

The other notable issue that seems to be getting people’s knickers in a twist is the issue of a splashpad. I’ll share my thoughts on this later in the week after I’ve had a chance to hear arguments on the issue at Tuesday’s deputation portion of the council meeting.

An abridged version of the agenda is presented below. Refer to the full agenda package at the Town’s website for a complete agenda with the supporting documentation.

Closed Meeting

b) personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees. (Appointments to Boards and Committees);
d) labour relations or employee negotiations; (Non-union Salary Schedule); (Personnel Update)
e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board; (Assessment appeal/court application); (Planning Matter);

Public Meeting

2.1.1 Public Consultation on Permitting Cannabis Retail Stores in Parry Sound.

2.1.2 Cannabis Retail Stores and the Municipal Option to Permit or Prohibit

Correspondence

4.1 – Julia Mader, Keep Waubuno Green. Request that an alternative location to the Waubuno Beach Park be considered for the proposed splash pad.

4.2 – Colleen Moore, Parry Sound resident. Opposition to proposed splash pad and request to support pool instead.

4.3 – Peter Scotland, Parry Air H.T.G. Parking by-laws in place at lower end of James Street.

4.4 – Jim Marshall, Chair, West Parry Sound District Museum. Request for 2019 contribution of $31,800 from the Town of Parry Sound.

4.5 – Susan Hrycyna, DBA Executive Administrator. Appointment of Directors for term 2019-2022.

Deputations

5.1 – Julia Mader, Keep Waubuno Green. Request that an alternative location to the Waubuno Beach Park be considered for the proposed splash pad.

5.2 – Peter Scotland, Parry Air H.T.G. Parking by-laws in place at lower end of James Street.

5.3 – Nadine Hammond, Curator/Manager, Museum on Tower Hill. 2018 Museum statistics and 2019 Museum special exhibits

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.2.1 – 2019 Land Ambulance Budget. Resolution. That upon recommendation of the EMS Advisory Committee, the Council of the Town of Parry Sound adopts the 2019 Land Ambulance Budget in the amount of $9,734,405.00.

9.3.1 – Recognizing Employer Support of our Volunteer Firefighters. Direction. That Mayor and Council send a letter of appreciation to those employers that permit their employees to respond to emergency calls during work and to those who are self-employed.

9.3.2 – Support the Creation of a Founders Circle in Parry Sound. Resolution. That Council hereby supports the Parry Sound Muskoka Community Networks (PMCN) initiative to create a Founders Circle in Parry Sound by the Town becoming a member at a cost of $1,000 annually.

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 $283,050 plus tax for the one-year period ending December 15, 2019; and That Council hereby approves the purchase of a cyber insurance policy from BFL Canada at the premium of $12,494.00 for the period from the policy inception date to December 15, 2019.

9.5.1 – Status Update on the Parry Sound Area Cultural and Recreation Master Plan. Direction. That staff be directed to provide a status update on the Parry Sound Area Cultural and Recreation Master Plan as part of upcoming budget deliberations, for consideration of 2019 budget allocation for a revised or new Parry Sound Parks, Recreation and Culture Master Plan.

By-laws

10.4.1 – 2019 Interim Tax Levy. By-law 2018 – 6886. 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 2019 taxation year.

Council Agenda Preview – November 20, 2018

17 Saturday Nov 2018

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My first thought was to suggest that there was nothing to see here but on reflection a couple things are worth noting. 4.1 & 5.1 concern a warming centre for the homeless and 9.1.1 which concerns the ongoing expansion of the Gardens retirement centre up by Canadore.

Closed Session

(b) personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees; (Parry Sound Residents)
e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board. (Planning Matter) (Assessment Appeal)

Correspondence

4.1 – Petition from Adam Stead. A warming centre for the homeless of Parry Sound. (Ten names on the petition).

Deputations

5.1 – Adam Stead, resident A warming centre for the homeless of Parry Sound.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 – Meadow Street Storm Sewer Replacement. Resolution. That upon the recommendation of Triton Engineering Services Limited, Council accept the quotation from Tower Excavating for the storm sewer replacement on Meadow Street, in the amount of $99,999.51, excluding HST, this quotation being the lowest quotation of four received.

9.2.1 – Consent Application – B 35/2018 (PS) (M2 Developments Inc.). Resolution. That Consent Application No. B 35/2018 (PS) (M2 Developments Inc.) be supported subject to:
1. The payment of $2,712 for cash-in-lieu of parkland dedication;
2. That the retained lands obtain relief from the Zoning By-law for the 50 units per hectare density cap; and
3. That the applicant be advised that the severed lot may need to be rezoned to permit the intended use (an Apartment Building) as this is outside the scope of a SP 26.88 zone. In addition, parking requirements may be deficient if development proceeds as identified on the Notice.

By-laws

10.2.1 – St. Andrews Parking Lot Agreement. By-law 2018 – 6877. Being a bylaw to execute an agreement with the Trustees of St. Andrews Presbyterian Church for the use and occupation of 54 Seguin Street, known as the St. Andrews Lot, as public parking lot.

10.3.1 – C.P. Station Lease Extension- Festival of the Sound. By-law 2018 – 6878. Being a by-law to authorize the execution of an agreement between the Town of Parry Sound and Festival of the Sound for the rental of the CP Station.

10.3.2 Partnership Agreement – York Professional Care and Education: Sport Leadership Camp. By-law 2018 – 6879. Being a bylaw to authorize the execution of a Partnership Agreement between York Professional Care and Education and the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound under the Youth Sport Leadership Camp program.

10.3.3 – Deputy Mayor Appointments. By-law 2018 – 6880. Being a By-Law to appoint a Deputy Mayor for the Town of Parry Sound for the 2019-2022 term of Council and to repeal By-Law 2014-6481.

Council Agenda Preview – November 6, 2018

04 Sunday Nov 2018

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A light agenda with the proposed development on Louisa Street (10.2.2) probably the issue of most interest. Some quick comments:

4.3 – Intersection of Isabella & Gibson Streets. The suggestion is the installation of 4-way stop signs. My experience would support the suggestion. It can be tricky turning left from Gibson onto Isabella for the reasons noted in the letter.

10.2.2 – Rezoning Application – Z/18/04 – Louisa Street (Acorn Ridge). The council meeting package contains an extensive review of the proposal and the basis for Staff’s recommendation that the rezoning application be approved. Check out the meeting agenda package at the Town’s website for the full report and recommendation.

Correspondence

4.1 – Downtown Business Association. Resignation of Mike Puro from DBA Board.

4.3 – Dan Ball & Gord Knechtel. Intersection of Isabella & Gibson Streets.

Consent Agenda

8.1 – Fluoride in the Municipality’s Drinking Water System. Resolution. Whereas By-law 2016-6619, passed on March 15, 2016, removed fluoride from Parry Sound’s Drinking water until a question could be placed on the Ballot for the 2018 Municipal Election; and Whereas By-law 2018-6802, passed on February 20, 2018, placed the following question on the ballot: “Are you in favour of the fluoridation of the public water supply of municipality?; and Whereas the Municipal Election took place on October 22, 2018 with the following results in answer to the above question placed on the ballot:
Yes – 882
No – 1506
Now Therefore Be It resolved that Council direct the Clerk to notify the Ministry of the Environment Conservation and Parks, the Ministry of Health and the Municipality of McDougall that the majority of eligible electors who voted in the municipal election are not in favour of the fluoridation of the Town’s public water supply and that the Town of Parry Sound will not add fluoride to the Town’s drinking water; and Further that the Director of Public Works be directed to complete a Form 2 – Record of Minor Modifications or Replacements to the Drinking Water System and then a Director Notification Alterations to a Drinking Water System form both to be forwarded to the Ministry of Environment Conservation and Parks.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1. – Financial Variance Report for Q3 2018. Resolution. That Council hereby receives and accepts the variance report for Q3 2018 (September 30, 2018) in Schedule “A” as attached; and Further that Council hereby approves the expenses for Council members for the period from July 1, 2018 to September 30, 2018, as in Schedule “B” attached.

9.2.1 – Urban Tree Canopy and Native Vegetation Policy. Resolution. That in accordance with Section 270(1) of the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c. 25, that the Town of Parry Sound Tree Canopy and Natural Vegetation Policy, as per the attached Schedule A, be adopted.

9.4.1 – Alcohol & Drug Use Policy. Resolution. That Council hereby approves amendment to the Town employee Alcohol and Drug Use policy to prohibit the use of marijuana by employees on Town worksites and during working hours, per the policy attached as Schedule “A”.

By-laws

10.2.1 – Agreement of Purchase and Sale. By-law 2018 – 6873. Being a By-law to authorize the execution of an Agreement of Purchase and Sale between Nancy Anne Virtue and the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound.

10.2.2. – Rezoning Application – Z/18/04 – Louisa Street (Acorn Ridge). By-Law 2018-6874. Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for Louisa Street (Acorn Ridge Properties Inc.).
Resolution. That the increase in height of 1.6 feet as noted in the Notice of Complete Application and Public Meeting for Z/18/04 – Louisa Street compared to what was noted on the application does not require any additional circulation in accordance with Section 34(17) of the Planning Act.
Direction. That staff be directed to discuss and prepare a Pre-Development Agreement with the applicant for Council’s consideration. This agreement will determine the cost for road and sidewalks improvements and determine if and how a cost sharing can be arranged with the developer.

10.4.1 – New Code of Conduct for Council, Boards and Committees. By-law 2018 – 6875. Being a bylaw to authorize the passage of a new Code of Conduct respecting the behaviour of Members of Council in the performance of their duties and responsibilities as elected community representatives and the behaviour of Local Board/Committee members and to repeal by-laws 2012-6138, 2014-6474 and 2016-6597.

Council Agenda Preview – October 16, 2018

14 Sunday Oct 2018

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There are a surprising number of items on this week’s agenda. None of them are controversial, although several are interesting.

9.3.1– the Request for Quote related to sand and salt provides some insight into how much salt and sand is put down on Parry Sound streets and sidewalks each year. The number is 300 tonnes. That translates to 300,000 kilos (660,000 pounds) or about 100 pounds for every Parry Sound resident. Well, that’s not doing the environment any favours.

9.3.3– Train Whistle Cessation is moving forward with the request to contract with a firm to conduct necessary studies.

9.5.1– Cannabis Legislation is just around the corner and it appears that the Town of Parry Sound is just starting to do the necessary study. I suspect that just as Parry Sound is home to the area beer and liquor stores that we will also be home to a cannabis dispensary. Hmmm, should the requirement that the 3 Bs (booze, banks and bars) be located in the downtown be amended to 3-B and C? Or, since the RBC is moving to the south end and not to the downtown perhaps we can take the banks out of the 3 Bs and simply rechristen the requirement as the BBC rule.

10.4.1– Appointment of Clayton Harris. Our new CAO will be starting this week. I wish him all the best. The Town is in good shape and he can hopefully take us to the next stage. Thanks to Rob Mens for his contributions to getting us to this stage.

Correspondence

4.1 – David Pearce, Supply Chain Officer, Stewardship Ontario. Industry funding for Municipal Blue Box Recycling for the second quarter of the 2018 Program Year – Parry Sound received

Deputations

5.1 – Amber Gordon, Director of Development, Georgian Bay Forever. Georgian Bay Forever’s Pilot Project: Divert and Capture: The fight to keep microplastics/fibres out of our waters.

5.2 – Parry Sound Seniors Club, Board members Allen Smith, Gurneth Hoddy, Olive Duggan and Hilda Floyd. Requesting an increase in their grant and having a street sign put up advising drivers that seniors will be crossing in this area.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.2.1 – Decommissioned Paramedic Response Unit (PRU). Resolution. That the Council of the Town of Parry Sound authorize the PRU being decommissioned in 2018 be donated to the Kearney Fire Department.

9.2.2 – Land Ambulance Contract. Resolution. That upon the recommendation of the EMS Advisory Committee the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound direct staff to enter into negotiations in January of 2019 with the West Parry Sound Health Centre (WPSHC) for a 4-year extension to the Land Ambulance contract, that will address the Value Added aspects of the service being leveraging of paramedics downtime, Community Paramedicine Initiatives and limiting Non Urgent Patient Transportation; and Further that staff report back to Council on the progress of negotiations by the beginning of February 2019 with a recommendation on proceeding with contracted services or preparing to take the Land Ambulance service in house for direct delivery.

9.2.3 – Consent Application. Resolution. That Consent Application No. B 31/2018 (PS) (Halvorson), be supported.

9.3.1 – RFQ – Gravel and Winter Sand. Resolution. That Council accepts the quotation from Fowler Construction to supply, deliver, blend, and stack approximately 300 tonnes of winter sand per delivery in the amount of $17.52 per tonne, for a total amount of $5,256.00, including tax, for the 2018-2019 year, this quotation being the only one received.

That Council accepts the quotation from Fowler Construction for approximately 60 tonnes of Granular A gravel per delivery in the amount of $15.26 per tonne, for a total amount of $915.60, including tax, for the 2018-2019 year, this quotation being the only one received.

9.3.2 – Tender – Snow Removal. Resolution. That Council accept the tender from Adams Brothers for snow removal on town streets during the 2018 fall & winter season and 2019 winter & spring season, including traffic control and labour costs to clear around infrastructure including tree pits and hydrants, as follows:
Tandem dump truck: $95.99 per hour
Wheeled loader: $111.81 per hour
Blower and control unit: $111.81 per hour

9.3.3 – Train Whistle Cessation RFP. Direction. (For Direct Staff Follow-up). That Council direct staff to secure the services of CIMA+ engineering to assess five level train crossings in Parry Sound for the purpose of train whistle cessation as required by Transport Canada, the Railway Safety Act, Grade Crossings Regulations and Grade Crossing Standards; and That staff bring a report back to Council with the results/findings from the engineering assessments and recommendations.

9.5.1 – Cannabis Legislation. Direction (For Direct Staff Follow-up). That the Manager of Building and Planning Services be directed to prepare a report advising on potential Zoning By-Law impacts regarding cannabis.

9.5.2 – Extension of Parking Limits for the Parry Sound Seniors at 80 James Street. Direction (For Direct Staff Follow-up)

By-laws

10.1.1 – 2018 Debenture. By-law 2018 – 6869. Being a by-law to authorize certain new capital works of The Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound (the “Municipality”); to authorize the submission of an application to Ontario Infrastructure and Lands Corporation (“OILC”) for financing such capital works; to authorize temporary borrowing from OILC to meet expenditures in connection with such works; and to authorize long term borrowing for such works through the issue of debentures to OILC.

10.4.1 – Appointment of Clayton Harris. By-law 2018 – 6870. Being a By-law to appoint Clayton Harris as the Chief Administrative Officer/Deputy Clerk and the Alternate Head under the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act for the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound and to amend By-law 2013-6244 and 2015-6568 and to repeal by-law 1998-4000.

Council Agenda Preview – August 16, 2018

11 Saturday Aug 2018

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

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

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

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

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

Closed Session

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

Correspondence

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

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

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

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

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

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

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

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

By-laws

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

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

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

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

 

 

(Updated) Council Agenda Preview – July 17, 2018

12 Thursday Jul 2018

Posted by in Parry Sound, Town Council

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UPDATE – the agenda for the 2018-07-17 meeting has been updated. The only changes as I can determine are in the Closed Meeting agenda. The additions are noted in bold font.

A light agenda for next week’s meeting week that’s out a day early. Three short comments:

Closed Session d)– the local rumour is that Clayton Harris will be named the new Chief Administration Officer (CAO).

9.1.1– relates to utility services for the redeveloped Georgian Bay Airways facility.

4.1 – no, it’s not that Stephen Covey.

Closed Session

a) the security of property of the municipality or local board. (National Broadcast Event)
c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land for municipal or local board purposes. (Waterfront Property)
d) labour relations or employee negotiations. (Contract for CAO Employment Position), (Union Negotiations)

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 property is 24 Albert Street, known as Part of Lot 3 on the East Side of Albert Street on Plan 104/105 or more particularly described as Part 5 of 42R9595, in the Town of Parry Sound. The purpose of the proposed Zoning By-law amendment is to provide relief from the Residential Second Density Zone. The effect of the proposed Zoning By-law amendment will be to permit the construction of two new residential units (for a total of four) and permit five parking spaces in the front yard (only three are permitted).

Correspondence

4.1 – Stephen Covey, Chief of Police and Chief Security Officer – CN Rail. Request of a resolution to declare September 23-29, 2018 Rail Safety Week

4.2 – Chris Pettinger, Co-founder, Trestle Brewing Company. Request for wayfinding signs for the Brewery within the Town of Parry Sound. Response from Staff included.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 – Consent Application – B 18/2018 (PS) (Solitude Investments Inc.). Resolution. That Consent Application No. B 18/2018 (PS) (Solitude Investments Inc.), be supported.

9.2.1 – BOHF Reserve Fund Signing Authorities. Resolution. That Nicole Mullen, Stockey Centre Programming & Events Manager and Caitlin Dyer, Bobby Orr Hall of Fame Curator be designated signing authorities for the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame Reserve Fund.

9.4.1 – 2018 Suez Ultrafiltration Users’ Group Conference. Resolution. That Council authorizes the Manager of Water Systems to attend the 2018 Suez Ultrafiltration Users’ Group Conference to be held in Knoxville, Tennessee, September 16 – 18, 2018 further to By-law 2002-4549, which requires prior Council approval for attendance at seminars, conferences and conventions outside the Province of Ontario.

9.4.2 – Tender – Fleet. Resolution. That Council accept the tender from Georgian Chevrolet Buick GMC for a 2019 GMC 2500HD in the amount of $57,912.50, including taxes, delivery, and the trade-in of a 2012 F250, this tender being the only one received.

By-laws

10.1.1 – Encroachment Agreement – St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church (58 Seguin Street). By-law 2018 – 6848. Being a by-law to execute an encroachment agreement between St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church and the Town of Parry Sound.

10.3.1 – Employee Training & Development Policy. By-law 2018 – 6849. Being a by-law to adopt the Employee Training & Development Policy and to repeal Bylaw 90-3443.

Council Agenda Preview – June 19, 2018

17 Sunday Jun 2018

Posted by in Parry Sound, Town Council

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There are a few items on this week’s agenda that caught my attention, and at least one of them had me shaking my head. A bit of commentary precedes the key agenda items.

Closed Session c) – a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land for municipal or local board purposes. (Two potential Property Purchases) The Town is looking at acquiring more land. I wonder what’s up. Is it related to a pool complex, the Parry sound Road extension? Let me know if you have some inkling as to where the Town is planning on spending money.

4.2– Seeking payment for damage done when a tree on town property fell on her home. My response is wow. Sometimes is easier to just accept responsibility and move on – but that might create precedent, so deny responsibility. The big organizations can do this because they have the resources to wait out the ‘little people’, (aka the taxpayer). This has to do with a tree branch that fell off a Town tree and pulled down a power line leading to a home. The homeowner is asking the Town to reimburse them for the $900 cost to have the power standard repaired. I am familiar with the situation as it took place in the home across the street from us. After more than 33 pieces of correspondence, and 3 months the claim was denied based on the contention that the tree was healthy and the branch falling down was an act of God. The Town of course proceeded to take the tree down at a cost of about $3,000 by my estimate. There was evidence that the tree was diseased but no one is willing to accept responsibility or declare the tree diseased and a Town responsibility, especially the Town’s insurer. I have attached the full correspondence thread from the agenda package through this link (40 pages). It’s a not very artful example of ‘passing the buck’. The buck it seems stops with the taxpayer.

9.1.1 – Façade Improvement Program Recommendations.There is quite a bit being invested by the Town in improving business signage.

Closed Session

  1. a) the security of property of the municipality or local board. (Boundary Matter)
    b) personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees. (Internal Staff Issue)
    c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land for municipal or local board purposes. (Two potential Property Purchases)

Correspondence

4.1 – Richard and Marilyn Mooder. 16 Rosetta Street. Concerns regarding the flushing of wastewater pipes on Rosetta in 2017 as part of the annual maintenance and how it effected their house.

4.2 – Elaine Pelleboer, 7 Redwood Drive. Seeking payment for damage done when a tree on town property fell on her home. Response from Staff provided.

Deputations

5.1 – John Meyer and Teryl Faulkner, Parry Sound Area Active Transportation. Presentation of a proposed Bicycle Route on Bowes Street

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

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 – Façade Improvement Program Recommendations. Resolution. That upon the recommendation of the 2018 Façade Improvement Review Committee, Council approves:
a) 93 James Street (No Ordinary Days) in the amount of $18,606.61;
b) 15 James Street (Bearly Used Books) in the amount of $6,100.00;
c) 10 Bowes Street (Sound Ideas Audiology) in the amount of $2,875.00; and
d) 25 Mary Street (Parry Sound Bikes) in the amount of $12,418.39.
And further that Agreement Letters be drafted and executed by the successful applicants.

9.1.2 – Consent Application – B 14/2018 (PS) (Downing) – 8 Edward Street. Resolution. That Consent Application No. B14/2018 (PS) (Downing) – 8 Edward Street, be supported subject to a condition which requires an easement over the drainage course in favour of the Town; and That the owner of 8 Edward Street be advised that it is their responsibility to restore the drainage course to its original abilities to dispose of stormwater should any drainage issues result from their recent alterations.
Resolution.
That the Mayor and Clerk are authorized to execute the easement documentation. That all legal costs to register the easement be paid for by the Town.

9.1.3 – 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 summers of 2019 and 2020 upon payment of a fee of $50 per season, and
e) All other regulations in the sign by-law continue to apply except for those revised by this resolution.

9.2.1 – 2018 International Sports Heritage Association Conference, San Francisco, California. Resolution. That Council authorizes Caitlin Dyer to attend the 2018 International Sports Heritage Association Conference in San Francisco, California September 26th – 28th, 2018, further to By-law No:2008-5173 which requires prior Council approval for attendance at seminars, conferences and conventions outside of the Province of Ontario.

9.2.2 – Council Member Pregnancy, Birth and/or Adoption of Child Leave Policy. Resolution. Whereas the Ontario government passed legislation under Bill 68, Modernizing Ontario’s Municipal Legislation Act; and Whereas the Bill received Royal Assent on May 30, 2017 and is now in effect; and Whereas a number of Ontario Regulations were provided with the Bill; one of which was the policy development of a Pregnancy/Parental Leave policy by all Ontario municipalities;
Now, therefore be it resolved that Council for the Town of Parry Sound approve the Council Member Pregnancy, Birth and/or Adoption of Child Leave Policy attached as Schedule “A”.

9.2.3 – Second Quarter Goal Plans Update. Resolution. That Council approves the June, 2018 Second Quarter Goal Plan update, attached as Schedule “A”.

9.3.1 – 2017 Annual Investment Report. Resolution. That Council accepts the 2017 Annual Investment Report and the attached Schedule “A” in accordance with Town’s Investment Policy.

By-laws

10.2.1 – Amendments to the Election Sign By-law. By-law 2018 – 6838. Being a by-law to regulate Election Signs in the Town of Parry Sound in federal, provincial and municipal elections and to repeal By-law 2018-6831.

10.3.1 – DBA Lease Agreement Renewal. By-law 2018 – 6839. Being a by-law to authorize the execution of an agreement between the Parry Sound Downtown Board of Management and the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound for a lease renewal for use of a specified portion of the Municipal Office.

10.3.2 – By-law to specify claw back percentages for 2018 property taxes. By-law 2018 – 6840. Being a By-law to Specify the “Claw-back Percentages” in Respect of Properties in the Commercial Class for 2018 Taxation Year.

10.4.1 – Union Gas Franchise Agreement. By-law 2018 – 6841. Being a by-law to execute the Union Gas Franchise Agreement and repeal by-law 98-4008.
Resolution. That Council hereby resolve that:
1. This Council approves the form of draft by-law and franchise agreement attached as Schedule “A” and authorizes the submission thereof to the Ontario Energy Board for approval pursuant to the provisions of Section 9 of The Municipal Franchises Act; and
2. This Council requests that the Ontario Energy Board make an Order declaring and directing that the assent of the municipal electors to the attached draft by-law and franchise agreement, attached as Schedule “A”, pertaining to the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound is not necessary pursuant to the provisions of Section 9(4) of the Municipal Franchises Act; and
3. That the Clerk be directed to provide Union Gas with four certified true copies of this resolution and attachment per their request.

 

Council Agenda Preview – June 5, 2018

04 Monday Jun 2018

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Closed Meeting Agenda Items

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

Deputations

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

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

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

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9.5.1– Fitness Trail Maintenance. Discussion.

By-laws

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

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

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

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.