Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – November 5, 2019

11 Monday Nov 2019

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

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BOCC, By-Law, Council Minutes, Fire Department, Infrastructure, parry sound, Pool, Rezoning, safety, School, Town Council

Council approved a couple of items related to the Wellness/Pool complex that moves the process forward. Beyond that there was nothing discussed or agreed that caught my interest.

Closed Session

c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land for municipal or local board purpose, (property matter)
e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board (French Public School Board; Tax-Exempt properties);
f) the receiving of advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose (French Public School Board)

1.4 Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof1.4.1 – Councillor Horne declared Pecuniary Interest on item 10.2.1 regarding the Fire Dispatch Service Agreement with the West Parry Sound Health Centre (WPSHC) as his spouse is the Chief Operating Officer of the WPSHC. Councillor Horne left the room, did not participate in discussion nor vote on the item.

Questions of Staff

3.2.1 – In response to Councillor Borneman’s inquiry regarding the presence of lead in drinking water, Director of Public Works Peter Brown responded that Town of Parry Sound staff are mandated and do sampling for lead all through Parry Sound, and have received relief from doing a number of samples because all lead samples have come back extremely low. Mr. Brown noted that the majority of lead samples in municipalities that do exist, including within Parry Sound, are in people’s plumbing not in the municipal pipe system.

3.2.2 – In response to Councillor Borneman’s inquiry with respect to the projected completion date of the Waubeek Street project, Mr. Brown noted that the bad weather is having a negative impact, however the contractors are working hard to compete it and the watermain work at the top of Waubeek Street near the intersection with Belvedere should start on Thursday and Melvin Street should be done by tomorrow. Mr. Brown reported that he hopes that at least one lift of asphalt will be laid before winter.

3.2.3 – In response to Councillor McCann’s inquiry as to whether the watermain work at Belvedere might necessitate blocking off traffic for which notice should be given, Mr. Brown reported that he did not anticipate full closure of the street, and that vehicles would have access through at least one lane.

Correspondence
4.1 – Dan Madigan, Elizabeth Court. Request for “no parking anytime” signs related to cars parked on Elizabeth Court. Referred to By-law Enforcement Officer and Public Works Director with signs erected and by-law enforcement monitoring being carried out.

4.3 – Gurneth Hoddy, President Parry Sound Seniors Club 1269. Request for $5,000 funding for 2020. Circulated to Mayor & Council and to the Director of Finance for budget 2020 consideration with an acknowledgment letter sent.

4.4 – Don Cowan, William Street. Request for 4-way stop at James-William Street. Circulated to Mayor & Council and Director of Public Works. Based on a previous similar request, the Director of Public Works has included for consideration in the 2020 budget an amount for a complete engineering review of the intersection.

4.5 – Stephanie Allman, Enbridge Gas. Notice of Hearing for 2020 Rate increase application. Circulated to Mayor & Council and filed.

4.6 – Guy Bourgouin, MPP Mushkegowuk – James Bay. Requesting support for Bill 125 re: Making Northern Ontario Highways Safer Act. Circulated to Mayor & Council and filed.

4.7 – LCBO Convenience Outlets Program. Accepting proposals up to November 20th from retailers to be a LCBO Convenience location. Circulated to Mayor & Council and filed.

Deputations
5.1 – Joanna Han, Co-chair of the Parry Sound Drug Strategy and Community Health Promoter for the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit. Regarding Community Sharps Bins
Ms. Han addressed Council from a prepared power point presentation on the value of Community Sharps Bins to help keep communities safe. Ms. Han advocated a non- judgemental, non-coercive and client centred “harm reduction” philosophy to substance use, that on the basis of evidence, reduces the impact on individual user and society. Ms. Han said that a harm reduction approach does not encourage or increase substance use; harm reduction programs help reduce infectious diseases, overdoses and deaths, injection substance use in public places, number of used needles in public, sharing of needles and other substance use equipment, and crime; and that harm reduction programs help increase employment among people who use substances, outreach and education and referrals to programs and services.
Ms. Han cited needle exchange stats for Parry Sound branch of the Health Unit with 80,194 needles out, 61,283 needles returned, resulting in almost 19,000 missing, giving rise to a safety risk to people. The presence of an easily accessible 24/7 Community Sharps Bin where needles can be dropped off, improves community safety, protects children, reduces health care costs and reduces the stigma.
With respect to the location, feedback has been collected by people locally who use needles, with 3 top locations in town selected. The next step is to have a focus group composed of members with lived substance-use experience select the recommended location(s). With Town inspection and approval, the site is prepared and bin installed. Accompanying installation of the bin, will be a community sharps education and communication plan.
Ms. Han provided a summary of tasks and associated costs breakdown for the Health Unit/CMHA and Town partners, with ongoing maintenance costs from $0 to $2,500 annually; and sharps disposal costs of $1,500 to $7,700 annually dependent upon who takes responsibility.
The following motion was made:
That Town staff be directed to work together with the Health Unit to bring a Community Sharps Bin program forward to 2020 budget and establish guidelines. Carried
In response to Councillor inquiries, Ms. Han reported that the usual location for a Community Sharps Bin is in a discreet but central location. With respect to the number of needles that have been issued but not returned, Ms. Han responded that the Health Unit is not sure where they all are, and that one possibility is that some are being held and accumulated to be returned all at once.

5.2 – Daniel Collings. Regarding Second Harvest/Food Rescue
Daniel Collings addressed Council from a prepared power point presentation on Food Rescue, with more information on the program at http://www.foodrescue.ca. Mr. Collings provided some statistics on surplus food, noting that 35.5 million metric tonnes of food is wasted in Canada annually which costs $100 billion with respect to associated water, electricity, labour and transportation to deal with it. Food in landfill creates methane gas, a leading cause of climate change.
Mr. Collings reported that a study conducted by Secord Harvest and Value Chain Management International found that 58% of all food produced is lost or wasted and of that 32% could have been rescued to support communities across Canada. Put another way, Mr. Collings noted that the annual avoidable food loss is enough to feed every Canadian for 5 months.
With respect to food insecurity, Mr. Collings noted that 13% of Canadians; i.e. 4 million, with 1.15 being children have inadequate access to healthy, affordable food, with income as the cause of food insecurity.
Mr. Collings provided more detail on Second Harvest which operates the Food Rescue program, noting that it is Canada’s largest food rescue organization, in operation for over 30 years, and has developed FoodResue.ca as a solution to expand their model, using a website to directly connect food business to non-profit organizations, resulting in greater capacity for food rescue and distribution.
Mr. Collings provided information on registering on-line to donate or rescue food, and information on the tracking features of the program, including amount and value of food donated and rescued, and greenhouse gases averted. Mr. Collings provided an example of the on-line process from start to finish of registering to donate food, with specification provided on the category and care of the food, approximate weight, location of donor site, and preferred pick-up time, through to the information received by the potential food rescuer (eligibility criteria being any charity or not-for-profit organization) and commitment to pick-up, thereby taking it out of the marketplace.
Mr. Collings noted that the Food Rescue program is a partner of the Climate Protection Program of which the Town is a member, and that greenhouse gases reduced as a result of food averted from landfill could be used for the targets and strategies for reduction in 2020.
Mr. Collings noted that statistically, 1 in 8 families in Canada struggle to put food on the table, but that in Parry Sound-Nipissing, it is 1 in 7. Since the program was piloted in May of 2018, over 1000 food businesses and 850 social service agencies are using the program with over 600,000 pounds of food rescued with specific champions in Parry Sound including Harry’s No Frills, Trestle Brewing Company, Boston Pizza and on the agency side including the Salvation Army, Mary Street Centre, and Harvest Share.
In response to Councillor queries, Mr. Colling noted that perishable food donated which is 14 days before the best before date and shelf stable food which is 3 months prior to the best before date are eligible for tax receipts. With respect to liability, Mr. Collings noted that the Donation of Food Act, 1994 prevents a person donating food in good faith from being held liable for injuries as a result of the consumption of the food. In addition, the social services agencies receiving and distributing the food are vetted by Second Harvest to ensure they have safe food handling practices in place.

5.3 – Ted Knight, St. James United Church. Regarding Support for Consent Application B 25/2019 (PS) (St. James Centennial United Church) and request for relief from Cash-in-lieu of parkland dedication.
Mr. Knight addressed Council on behalf of St. James United Church/Mary Street Centre, requesting relief from the required payment in lieu of parkland dedication of one new lot. Mr. Knight noted that the Church wants to sever the property that includes a law office at 22 Miller Street, so that the Church can move forward with its programs to help the community. Mr. Knight said that St. James United Church is not a developer that builds houses or units, but rather is a developer of services required by so many in the community, and that by severing and selling the former manse at 22 Miller Street, the church can further respond to needs of the community through various outreach programs. In conclusion, Mr. Knight requested exemption from the cash-in-lieu of parkland requirement in the consent application.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.2.1 – Consent Application – B 25/2019 (PS) (St. James Centennial United Church) Spokesperson: Taylor Elgie, Manager of Building and Planning Services. Resolution.
That a decision on Consent Application No. B 25/2019 (PS) (St. James Centennial United Church) be approved subject to:
1. Payment for cash-in-lieu of parkland dedication for one new lot.
2. That the applicant be advised that each of the severed and retained lots require separate and individual water and sewer services, or, if necessary, an easement be conveyed for any services which traverse either the severed or retained lot in favour of the other lot.
3. That the severed lot ensure that parking requirements are satisfied (either by parking on-site, obtaining permission from the Town or including a right-of-way on the retained parcel).
The following amendment was made:
That the resolution be amended so that numbered clause 1 reads: “Payment of $1 for cash-in-lieu of parkland dedication for one new lot.” Amendment Carried. The amended resolution was voted on: Carried as amended.

9.2.2 – Ambulance In-Vehicle Computers. Resolution. That the Council for the Town of Parry Sound approve the budgeted purchase of ambulance in-vehicle computers in the amount of $87,550.00 plus HST from Interdev. Carried.

9.2.3 – Municipal Office and Firehall Custodial 2020 and 2021 John Este, Chief Building Official. Resolution. That Council elects to accept neither of the proposals received regarding the work of Schedule C in the RFP – Custodial 2020 and 2021. (Town Office sidewalk entrance maintenance – snow shovelling, sanding, etc.). Carried.

9.3.1 – Amendment to Wellness Centre & Pool Committee Terms of Reference. Resolution. Whereas it is desirable that clarity be provided in the Wellness Centre Pool Committee’s Terms of Reference regarding which municipal procedural by-law governs the Committee’s procedures; and
Whereas the Town of Parry Sound provides secretariat services and hosts the Wellness Centre Pool Committee meetings,
Now therefore the Council of the Town of Parry Sound hereby authorizes the following amendment to the Wellness Centre Pool Committee’s Terms of Reference as previously adopted by Resolution 2019 – 087:
That the sentence: “Roberts Rules shall apply to matters not covered by these Terms of Reference.”, be replaced with: “The Town of Parry Sound’s procedural by-law shall apply to matters not covered by these Terms of Reference, with Robert’s Rules of Order applying in any case where provision is not made by the Town of Parry Sound’s procedural by-law”; and
That the Wellness Centre Pool Committee’s Terms of Reference shall be so amended upon the unanimous consent of the respective participating Councils. Carried.

9.3.2 – Integrity Commissioner Report – 2018. Resolution. Whereas Section 14 of the Council, Boards and Committees Code of Conduct By-law 2018-6875 requires that the Integrity Commissioner provide an annual report on previous year activities to Council;
Now Therefore Council accepts the Integrity Commissioner’s response through the Clerk, that no complaints were received, and no investigations conducted in 2018. Carried.

9.3.3 – Wellness Centre & Pool Complex – ICIP Grant Application. Resolution. THAT the Council for the Town of Parry Sound supports the Town of Parry Sound as the lead for submitting a joint application to the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP), Community, Culture and Recreation Funding Stream for a “West Parry Sound Area Recreation Complex” on behalf of the seven (7) West Parry Sound area Municipalities and the First Nations Communities of Wasauksing and Shawanaga; and
THAT the proposed commitment and share of the estimated capital and operating costs of the project for each Municipality and First Nation Community be determined upon the completion of the report by CS&P Architects, with input from the Citizens Advisory Committee and the development of a facility governance model by the CAO Steering Committee; and
THAT the Mayor & Clerk be authorized to sign the relevant documents related to the ICIP application and cost sharing agreement. Carried.

By-laws

10.2.1 – Fire Dispatch Contract. By-law 2019 – 6980. Being a By-law to authorize the execution of an agreement with the West Parry Sound Health Centre for the provision of Fire Dispatch services. Passed, Signed & Sealed.

10.2.2 – Rezoning Application – Z/19/15 – 32 Great North Road (Distler for Ambraska). By-Law 2019 – 6981. Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for 32 Great North Road (Distler for Ambraska). Passed, Signed & Sealed.

10.2.3 – Appointment and Agreement with Philip West for on-call after-hours Municipal Law Enforcement services. By-law 2019 – 6986. Being a By-law to authorize an agreement for municipal by-law enforcement on-call service and appoint Philip West as a Municipal By-law Enforcement Officer. Passed, Signed & Sealed.

10.3.1 – Olympia Ice Resurfacer Advertising: Canadian Tire Parry Sound. By-Law 2019-6979. That Council authorize the execution of an agreement with Canadian Tire Parry Sound, for advertising on the entire Olympia Ice Resurfacer Unit for a term of three (3) years. Passed, Signed & Sealed.

10.3.2 – CS&P Consulting Services Contract – Wellness Centre & Pool Complex. By-law 2019 – 6987. Being a By-law to authorize the execution of an agreement with CS&P Architects for Consulting Services for the Wellness Centre & Pool Complex. Passed, Signed & Sealed.

10.4.1 – POA Defaulted Fines Collection Fees. By-law 2019 – 6982. Being a bylaw to amend by-law 2010-5408 The Fees and Services Charges by-law to add a Schedule “I” named POA Service Fees. Passed, Signed & Sealed.

10.4.2 – 2019 Debenture. By-law 2019 – 6983. 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. Passed, Signed & Sealed.

Council Agenda Preview – November 9, 2019

01 Friday Nov 2019

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

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Agenda, BOCC, By-Law, Fire Department, Parking, parry sound, Rezoning, safety, Town Council

There is nothing particularly notable or controversial; just taking care of business. Certainly Enbridge Gas, Item 4.5, is taking care of business.

Closed Session

e) – litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board (French Public School Board; Tax-Exempt properties);

Correspondence

4.1 – Dan Madigan, Elizabeth Court. Cars parked on Elizabeth Court.

4.2 – Nathan Cato, Director, Government Affairs, Canadian Pacific. CP Holiday Train – November 29th, 2019.

4.3 – Gurneth Hoddy, President Parry Sound Seniors Club 1269. Request for $5,000 funding for 2020.

4.4 – Don Cowan, William Street. Request for 4-way stop at James-William Street.

4.5 – Stephanie Allman, Enbridge Gas. Notice of Hearing for 2020 Rate increase application.

4.6 – Guy Bourgouin, MPP Mushkegowuk – James Bay. Requesting support for Bill 125 re: Making Northern Ontario Highways Safer Act

Deputations

5.1 – Joanna Han, Co-chair of the Parry Sound Drug Strategy and Community Health, Promoter for the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit. Community Sharps Bins.

5.2 – Christine Bome, Daniel Collings. Second Harvest/Food Rescue.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.2.1 – Consent Application – B 25/2019 (PS) (St. James Centennial United Church). Resolution.That a decision on Consent Application No. B 25/2019 (PS) (St. James Centennial United Church) be approved subject to:
1. Payment for cash-in-lieu of parkland dedication for one new lot.
2. That the.applicant be advised that each of the severed and retained lots require separate and individual water and sewer services, or, if necessary, an easement be conveyed for any services which traverse either the severed or retained lot in favour of the other lot.
3. That the severed lot ensure that parking requirements are satisfied (either by parking on-site, obtaining permission from the Town or including a right-of-way on the retained parcel).

9.2.3 – Municipal Office and Firehall Custodial 2020 and 2021. Resolution. That Council elects to accept neither of the proposals received regarding the work of Schedule C in the RFP – Custodial 2020 and 2021.

By-laws

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – September 17, 2019

18 Wednesday Sep 2019

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

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By-Law, Council Minutes, DBA, Infrastructure, parry sound, Planning, Pool, Rezoning, safety, TOPS Financial Analysis, Town Council, Town Dock/Big Sound Marina, Water Management

There were no surprises at this past week’s meeting of Town of Parry Sound Council, so no comments on my part. The Special Meeting summary minutes can be found at the end of the meeting.

Closed Session

e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board, (property matter);
f) the receiving of advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose, (property matter);

Public Meeting

2.1 – Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/09 – 14-16 William Street (Henry). Subsequent to an explanation of how the public was notified of application Z/19/09 – 14-16 William Street (Henry), Manager of Building & Planning Services Taylor Elgie gave an explanation of the purpose of the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment (ZBA), being to amend the C1 zone to permit five residential units within the existing structure in addition to all the uses in the C1 zone. Currently the building has four residential units and a vacant commercial unit.
No one spoke in favour of, or in opposition to the proposed ZBA and Mr. Elgie reported that no letters have been received either in favour of, or in opposition to the proposed ZBA.

2.2 – Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/10 – 78 Great North Road (John Jackson Planner on Behalf of Parry Property Holdings Ltd). Subsequent to an explanation of how the public was notified of application Z/19/10 – 78 Great North Road (John Jackson Planner on Behalf of Parry Property Holdings Ltd), Manager of Building & Planning Services Taylor Elgie gave an explanation of the purpose of the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment (ZBA), being to amend the R2 zone to permit two additional dwelling units in an existing dwelling, and two additional units within an existing duplex, and a parking standard of one parking space per dwelling unit. Currently the total number of units is three, but the applicant ultimately requests seven units total between the two existing structures.
Mayor McGarvey invited those in favour of the proposed ZBA to address Council. John Jackson, agent for Brian Moore, spoke in support of the proposed ZBA, noting that the proposed conversion would create additional units falling into the definition of affordable housing, and that he therefore hoped the proposal would receive Council support.
Mayor McGarvey invited those in opposition to the proposed ZBA to address Council. Peter Agnello addressed Council with concerns regarding water and sewer lines attached to the property. Mr. Agnello said that the sewer lines from the upper house with 6-8 people, a lower house with 2 people and 2 other small houses come along his property and attach to the same 4″ sewer line that his property is attached to. Mr. Agnello reported that quite often he gets backups in his basement, and that he believes there are too many people on the sewer line. Mr. Agnello requested that before Council makes a decision on this, he would like them to see what can be done, as he believes there should be one lateral line for each building.
James Campbell of 76 Great North Road reported that he is not necessarily opposed to the zoning by-law amendment, but that he has a concern that if the sewer and water lines are changed as a result of this project, it may disturb sewer and water lines servicing his property that he put in many years ago. Mr. Campbell also expressed concern regarding the parking, noting that the proposal would increase the current number of parking spots from five to seven between the two houses, and that if the hedge that exists there now must be removed to accommodate the change, he wonders if snow storage will be a problem.
Mr. Elgie reported that no letters have been received either in favour of, or in opposition to the proposed ZBA.

2.3 – Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/11 – 80 Great North Road (John Jackson Planner on Behalf of Parry Property Holdings Ltd). Subsequent to an explanation of how the public was notified of application Z/19/11 – 80 Great North Road (John Jackson Planner on Behalf of Parry Property Holdings Ltd), Manager of Building & Planning Services Taylor Elgie gave an explanation of the purpose of the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment (ZBA), being to permit two additional dwelling units in an existing dwelling, and one additional unit within an existing dwelling, and to permit five parking spaces in the front yard where three spaces are currently permitted. Currently the total number of units is two, but the application ultimately requests five units total between the two existing structures.
Mayor McGarvey invited those in favour of the proposed ZBA to address Council. John Jackson addressed Council advocating for the ZBA for the same reasons as outlined for the previous application at 78 Great North Road. Mr. Jackson indicated that he was aware of Mr. Agnello’s and Mr. Campbell’s concern, that he agrees that the old 4″ line is undersized, and he will be working with Town staff to address this.
Mayor McGarvey invited those in opposition to the proposed ZBA to address Council. Mr. Agnello indicated that he had heard some of what Mr. Jackson just said and that as far as he was concerned if the line was increased, and he did not have any back-ups into his basement, he was in favour of the ZBA.
Mr. Campbell addressed Council, indicating that he has the same concern with this property as outlined with respect to the previous, and that as long as those concerns are addressed, he has no problem with the ZBA.
Mr. Elgie reported that no letters have been received either in favour of, or in opposition to the proposed ZBA.

Mayor McGarvey concluded the public meeting with notice that objections to the passing of the amendments will be received by the Clerk within 20 days from the date such notice is given, which objections will be forwarded to the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal. If an appeal is submitted and the appellant has not provided Council with an oral or written submission before the passing of the by-law, the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal may choose to dismiss the appeal.

Questions of Staff

3.2.1 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiry regarding a progress update on the Waubeek Street project, Director of Public Works Peter Brown reported that the contractor is working hard and that he is fairly confident that the first lift of asphalt will be laid before bad weather. Mr. Brown responded to Councillor Keith’s follow up question regarding seeing plows on trucks, indicating that mechanics and staff are working to get vehicles ready for snow weather.

3.2.3 – In response to Councillor Backman’s inquiry regarding OPP reports on speeding tickets, Director of Finance Stephanie Phillips noted that the Town does receive reports through Provincial Offences Act on how many tickets are issued in each municipality and that this information can be found as part of POA Agendas and minutes.

Correspondence

4.1 – Margaret Gain, Georgian Bay Ave. Request for pipe installed under sidewalk to drain storm water from properties. Referred to Director of Public Works, with an acknowledgement sent.

4.2 – Butch & Eileen Folland, Georgian Bay Ave. Request for pipe installed under sidewalk to drain storm water from properties. Referred to Director of Public Works, with an acknowledgement sent.

4.3 – Gary Black, Chair, Parry Sound Anglers & Hunters Inc. Request that Town staff refrain from mowing milkweed. Referred to Director of Public Works, and Manager of Parks & Recreation, with an acknowledgement sent.

Deputations

5.1 – Sebastian MacDonald. Request to change speed limit along Riverdale Road from 50 km/hr to 40 km/hr. 8-year old Sebastian MacDonald addressed Council with respect to a request to lower the speed limit from 50 to 40 kms/hour on Riverdale Street where he lives. Sebastian reported that according to the Triple A Foundation for Traffic Safety, the risk of severe injury goes up the faster a car is travelling. At just under 50 km/hour, the risk of severe injury is 75%, but that at just under 40 km/hour, it drops to 25%. Sebastian noted that a review of data on Riverdale Road from August 2-August 12th, indicates that the fastest recorded speed of the 933 cars during that period was 67 km/hour and the average was 52 km/hour. Sebastian noted that his family had collected a petition of nearly 30 signatures supporting the request to pass a by-law reducing the speed limit on Riverdale Road from 50 to 40 km/hour.

5.2 – Brenda Ryan, Chair, Beautification Committee; Susan Hrycyna, DBA. Downtown Blade Signs Brenda Ryan addressed Council with respect to the first recommendation of the Downtown Beautification Plan, regarding signage. Ms. Ryan used a series of slide photos to illustrate the current state of Parry Sound downtown signage, and examples from other communities using blade signs of varied designs but meeting a minimum cohesive standard as inspiration for recommended signage improvement in the downtown.
Ms. Ryan reported that the DBA goal is to have the large metal signs that project over the sidewalk and clutter sightlines removed by March 31, 2020, and that $20,000 is set aside from the Downtown revitalization grant to replace them with blade signs. Ms. Ryan indicated that all who currently own large metal signs are willing to have them replaced.
Ms. Ryan indicated that in support of the move to blade signage, the DBA is advocating for changes to the Sign By-law only allowing awnings and these smaller blade signs, and that any exemption requests be reviewed by the DBA before coming to Council.
Ms. Ryan further reported that the DBA also advocates that the quality of sidewalk signs and standard of care be included in the by-law.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 – Official Plan Amendment No. 3 and Rezoning Application Z/19/06 – Smith Crescent (YMCA/Wickman). Resolution 2019 – 097. That a decision on Official Plan Amendment No. 3 and Rezoning Application Z/19/06 -Smith Crescent (YMCA/Wickman) be deferred until an environmental impact study has been submitted to the satisfaction of the Town. Carried

9.1.2 – Direction – Signs for Out of Town Events. Direction Approved. That as follow up to the Direction given at the August 13, 2018 Council Meeting no changes be made to the Sign By-law. Carried

9.2.1 – Wellness Centre and Pool Due Diligence. Resolution 2019 – 098. That Council, contingent upon the Archipelago participating in the due diligence phase, accept the bid from CS&P Architects to undertake the due diligence work related to the Wellness Centre and Pool project in the amount of $127,100, excluding HST. Carried

9.3.1 – 2018 Audited Financial Statements. Eric Cavanagh. Auditors’ Report. On behalf of BDO, Mr. Cavanagh gave an overview of the Auditor’s Report for the year ending 2018, from the letter attached to the agenda. Resolution 2019 – 099. That Council for the Town of Parry Sound does hereby approve the Draft Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2018 in Schedule “A” as attached. Carried

9.3.2 – Insurance Joint and Several Liability Provincial Consultation. Direction for Staff Follow-up. That Council directs staff to provide comments to the provincial consultation process regarding joint and several liability based on the feedback of BFL and annual insurance premium costs. Carried

9.3.3 – Reserve and Reserve Fund Annual Report; 2018 Surplus allocation. Resolution 2019 – 100. That Council receives the 2018 Reserve and Reserve Fund Annual Report, attached as Schedule A, in compliance with the Town’s Reserve and Reserve Fund Policy; and further, That Council hereby approves the allocation of the surplus in Schedule B. Carried

9.4.1 – Joseph Street Forcemain Replacement. Resolution 2019 – 101. That upon the recommendation of Triton Engineering Services Limited, Council accept the quotation from Weeks Construction Inc. for the forcemain replacement on Joseph Street, in the amount of $158,859.49 excluding HST, this quotation being the lowest of three quotations received; and That funds in the amount of $75,000 allocated for 10006 (Ditch Witch Vacuum Trailer) in 2019 budget be reallocated to this project; and That the remaining amount be taken from Wastewater Reserves. Carried

9.4.2 – Retaining Wall Replacement at Bay Street and James Street. Resolution 2019 – 102. That upon the recommendation of Triton Engineering Services Limited, Council accept the quotation from Weeks Construction Inc. for the retaining wall replacement at Bay Street and James Street, in the amount of $95,584.00 excluding HST, this quotation being the lowest of three quotations received. Carried

By-laws

10.1.1 Big Sound Marina Agreement One Year Extension with Massasauga Management Co. By-law 2019-6954. Being a bylaw to amend By-law No: 2014-6428, the agreement with Massasauga Management Co. Inc. for operation of Big Sound Marina and the Town Dock, and supersede amending By-law No: 2017-6704 and By-law No. 2018-6858. Passed, Signed and Sealed

Special Meeting of Council

9.2.1 – 2019-2022 Strategic Plan. CAO Clayton Harris gave an overview of the Preliminary Draft Strategic Plan for 2019-2022 from a prepared power point presentation, posted on the Town’s website. Council provided general comments, including support for public consultation and facilitated focus groups, resulting in the following direction approved: Direction for Staff Follow-up. That the draft 2019-2022 Strategic Plan, incorporating management’s recommendations and considering Council’s commentary be brought forward to an evening and daytime public consultation session to be scheduled in October 2019; and further
That focus sessions be set up with various community groups, private sector, community partners, and youth engagement; and further, That a website survey be established; and That staff establish a meeting schedule. Carried

Trains, Trestles and Cold Reality – A Trilogy of Sorts

18 Thursday Jul 2019

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

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Not quite a Gord Lightfoot trilogy of course.

A couple of things popped up in the last few days that stimulated this post.

Trestles

Yesterday evening was quiet around my house, certainly in the backyard. The heat and humidity lifted and there was blessed silence. Why the silence? It appears that a truck ran into the trestle on William Street possibly causing damage and necessitating a stop of operations on the CN Line that runs behind our house.

Why did the truck hit the trestle? It clearly was an issue of human error. Was it avoidable? In my opinion quite possibly. A couple of years ago I was sitting at an open house in the Town of Parry Sound town hall and had a discussion with a couple of members of Council and Staff about the William Street trestle. I told them that I had gone out with a tape measure and measured the height of the trestle and the height of the frames that sit about 5 metres in front of the trestle on both sides. The yellow and black striped frames were at least a foot taller than the trestle. That might allow a ‘rookie’ truck operator who was unsure of the height of their vehicle to assume that if they were able to get under the frame that they would fit under the trestle. The driver would not only be wrong I suggested; they might even be deceived by these frames.

During the discussion at town hall I suggested the town suspend a swinging bar or chains at the same height as the trestle or even a little lower. My thinking was that a driver who approached the trestle and heard/felt the top of the vehicle strike something would hit the brakes and either stop before hitting the trestle or at least hit it with much less force.

My idea was not original. I have been to enough parking garages to have seen the signs that tell me the maximum height inside but also have some sort of structure at the entrance that prevents vehicles from entering that exceed the lowest height in the parking garage. The folks that run these garages don’t want to be pulling cars that are stuck on the third floor.

The Councillor thought that this was a good idea. The Staff member disagreed. He suggested that there might be a Town liability if a vehicle was damaged by this hanging bar or chains. Would there be a liability if they hit the current structure? How much damage might be caused by hanging chains? Jeez – “You can’t tell a Heinz pickle nothing”. I will note that this individual was also against crossing arms at the Cascade Street crossing when the Railway Safety Committee I participated on made the suggestion. He said people would just go around them. Thank goodness Council did not agree. One life lost is too many.

We all make errors of inattention, young, old and especially impaired. I think it behooves us as a community to help people make the right decisions when we know there is a serious risk involved.

Lac Megantic

You have forgotten about it haven’t you? Well the New York Times published an article a couple of days ago about the accident and what has followed in the years since. It’s worth reading and understanding the risks we all face. What would happen if a larger truck were to barrel under the William Street trestle while one of the ‘oilers’ was running across?

Here is a link to the article at the New York Times. If you can’t access it at their site, I have posted a copy here. (Note: PDF reader required.) I have a subscription to the Times and feel this article needs to be shared. A New York Times online subscription can be had for $4 CDN per month; cheaper than the North Star.

Train Noise

In an earlier post I had expressed my position that chasing the railways about the non-airhorn noises was a fool’s errand. I’ll expand on this. The engines do not squeal, they make lots of noise related to the propulsion system, but that’s it. They pass quickly. In contrast it is the rail cars that squeal. Not all of them, perhaps one in ten. You can hear the squealers coming down the track. So, it’s not a consistent noise like airhorns. Figuring out which rail cars are squealing would be a challenge. No company wants the bother and expense of fixing all of them for a non-safety issue.

The real reason this is not an issue that can be easily addressed is because – the railways don’t own the railcars in most cases. The railways transport the railcars, but they don’t own them. They may own some of the container carriers, but they rarely own the oil and chemical cars, or the potash cars, or the grain cars. These railcars are probably not even owned by the companies whose goods are being transported but rather by leasing companies. No business except a financial services company wants to have that much capital invested in rolling or flying stock.

I hope Council will get Staff to do the bare minimum work necessary to convince themselves that attacking the squeal of the railcars is a waste of time and energy. You will end up chasing a dozen or more companies. Time is better spent on things under their control, like preventing crashes into the trestle on William Street, or stopping airhorns in Parry Sound.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – June 18, 2019

22 Saturday Jun 2019

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

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By-Law, Council Minutes, Fire Department, Infrastructure, parry sound, safety, Town Council, train

Well I guess it would have taken a little courage on the part of Council to have decided to move forward with Item 9.2.1 – Train Whistle Cessation within Parry Sound. It was so much easier to simply decide that whistle (air horn) cessation would create a safety issue and be too expensive.

At our home we are not particularly impacted by the air horns. But there are some folks who are literally blasted by it. With the decision to run trains in only one direction on each line some people are getting blasted twice as much as they were ten years ago. To the best of my knowledge only one of the Councillors lives anywhere close to where they might be subject to the impact of the air horns. The rest live far enough the way that it doesn’t directly impact their lives unless a resident complains. And most of senior staff, who make the recommendations, don’t even live in Parry Sound.

Somehow the Town can find almost a million dollars to buy property on Oastler Park drive for purposes that still haven’t been shared with taxpayers, and a couple hundred thousand to upgrade Big Sound Marina for the benefit of visitors, and $1.2 million on the Stockey Centre so that the facility can lose more than a quarter million dollars a year while mostly servicing tourists, yet air horn cessation is too big a cost. The Town knows how to debenture. This is an investment for the present and the future.

The issue of safety is being used as cover for a lack of courage. Who is at risk if the recommended changes were to be made? It would be people trespassing. So, we protect the people who ignore the law and punish others with the air horns. I sat on a Town rail safety committee about 5 years ago that made a number of recommendations on how to improve rail safety. It was received by Council and ignored except for the very obvious recommendation to install gates at all town rail crossings. That too was met with skepticism by some members of staff. Don’t tell me we really care about rail safety, it’s all about CYA.

The suggestion to do a study about the squealing of the trains is misdirection and a waste of money. The noise pollution caused by the wheels squealing is as bad as the air horns. The railways know how to fix the problem, but they don’t because it is an expense and their only responsibility is to literally keep the trains on the tracks and return an ever-larger profit to shareholders. Employees can die through safety and equipment failures, and whole towns can be destroyed, but there are never any real consequences or changes in railway operating practices. Blame the victims and worry about the next quarter’s financials. You can go online and find lots of information on wheel squeal abatement. The reason I call the Council suggested initiative bogus is that while you can spend more money, do the study, and come up with a recommendation, the railways will just ignore it. And they will probably charge you to even read the recommendation that they will dismiss. Let’s remember the few occasions the Town has asked the railways for even minor concessions, sometimes for just a day, and were flatly rejected. They don’t even reliably address rail stoppages on crossings. A solution to wheel noise is not within the control of the Town. Air horns are in our control. Council has decided to punt. That’s not a strategy for winning.

Yes, it’s hard to be courageous. But that’s what defines the character of an individual, a company, a team, a council and even a town.

The members of Council are tasked with making tough decisions, not deflecting them.

The video of the Council discussion is available at this URL (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cTu1fXRAPPo). The discussion starts at 1:06:55.

A few comments on the discussion:

They are air horns. That’s not what “some people call them”. Here is the Wikipedia link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Train_horn
Sound changes reported as decibels are not measured in percentages. The decibel scale is logarithmic. If an air horn is required to be 100 dB and the actual is 110 dB the power ratio difference is not 10% greater, it’s 900% greater, and the amplitude ratio is 300% greater. According to psychoacoustics 10 dB is sensed as twice the volume. A 10 dB reduction then would be half the perceived volume. How you present data in unfamiliar units can have a major impact on how it is understood and processed. Does it help you if I tell you the temperature in degrees Kelvin? Can you make a decision on how to dress if I told you tomorrow it will be about 298 degrees Kelvin? Sounds hot doesn’t it?
A simple question. If safety is an issue why don’t trains blast their air horns every quarter mile or so even when they aren’t in the presence of a crossing? I would be interested in knowing how many of the fatalities in Ontario occurred in areas where there has never been an obligation to use an air horn, for example between rail crossings in rural areas. People don’t just trespass in towns and cities.

Enough on that. For now, at least.

No, wait. Why bother with this? If it’s been this way for almost 100 years, why make changes? The future of the Town depends on these incremental improvements to compete and prosper. What kind of development are we seeing close to tracks and crossings? What kind of development are we seeing distant from the train? Are investors going to look at rehabilitating the downtown with the train noises and increasingly common air horns? Is that why the south end is so attractive?

Woof!

Presentations:

Mayor McGarvey presented Fire Chief Dave Thompson with the Governor General’s Fire Services Exemplary Services Medal, in recognition of 20 years of service to public safety in Canada.

Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof

1.4.1 – Councillor Backman declared pecuniary interest on item 9.3.1 as she received remuneration from a vendor. Councillor Backman left the room, did not participate in discussion, nor vote on the matter.

Questions of Staff

3.2.1 – In response to Councillor Backman’s request for an update on the Strategic Plan, CAO Clayton Harris reported that currently, staff down to the Manager level are looking at the previously adopted strategic plan to build buy-in support and identify changes thought necessary from a staff perspective.
That a special meeting of Council be scheduled in September to review the Strategic Plan and that a public meeting be scheduled thereafter. Carried

3.2.2 – In response to Councillor Borneman’s inquiry regarding the former St. Joseph’s Hospital building condition, Director of Development and Protective Services noted the owner has responded to an order to install fencing, but that an order requiring an engineering report on the stability of the building is still outstanding.

3.2.3 – In response to Councillor Borneman’s inquiry as to whether there was a traffic control plan for Isabella at William Street subsequent to completion of construction projects there, Director of Public Works Peter Brown reported that there is no set traffic control design for that location with options under consideration including a lit crossing, road painting and/or a 3-way stop.
That the Director of Public Works be directed to bring a report and recommendation to the next Council meeting on recommended options for traffic control at the Isabella/William Street intersection. Carried

3.2.4 – In response to Mayor McGarvey’s inquiry as to the status of the 4-way stop on reported that the 4-way stop is awaiting for school to finish, and that with significant planned advance warning, the hope is to have the lines painted in early July, followed by implementation of the 4-way stop. Mr. Brown also reported that line painting throughout the Town would commence when it stops raining and the ambient temperature is sufficiently high for a sustained period.

3.2.5 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiry regarding crossing safety from Avenue Road left onto Waubeek Street, Mr. Brown reported that he expected the planned realignment as part of the road reconstruction would make it safer. He also reported that slowing down is essential and that additional line painting and new 3-dimensional type crosswalks could be considered as long as compliant with transportation regulations.

3.2.6 – In response to Councillor McCann’s inquiry regarding the potential for installing a crosswalk on Waubeek at the trestle, Mr. Brown reported that there may be a problem with sightlines, however he would look into the matter and report back to Council.

Correspondence

4.1 – Jim & Marian Ferris, 143a William Street. Location suggestions for Georgian Nordic Ski and Canoe Club structures and programming currently operating at William Street Park. Item referred to the Manager of Parks & Recreation who has responded to Mr. & Mrs. Ferris, with a copy to Mayor & Council.

Deputations

5.1 – Ian Fleming, President; Dan DiNicolo, Member, Festival of the Sound Board. Festival of the Sound’s Upcoming 40th Anniversary Season. Dan DiNicolo presented Council with the core goals of Festival of the Sound (FoTS), highlights of the past forty years, new and special events this year, and an overview of the economic impact of the FoTS. In conclusion Mr. DiNicolo invited members of Council and the public to “Come to the Party”, this being the 40th anniversary of the Festival of the Sound.

5.2 – Russell Becker, Community Relations Director, The Gardens. The Gardens – Expansion. Russell Becker addressed Council with appreciation for the Town’s original acceptance of the proposal submitted on behalf of The Gardens for a retirement home in Parry Sound. Mr. Becker noted that 70 suites were created, and that their success has prompted expansion by another 37 suites, including one-bedroom, one-bedroom with balcony, and two-bedroom at 1,000 square foot options ready for occupancy on July 1st. Mr. Becker reported that an information session on the expansion would be held on-site on Monday June 24th at 6:30 P.M. and that an open house would be held August 4th, time to be determined.

Consent Agenda

8.1 – Resolution 2019 – 066. Be it resolved that the Town of Parry Sound supports the national recognition of Indigenous Peoples Day, by declaring June 21st as Indigenous Peoples Day in the Town of Parry Sound. Carried

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 – 2018 Annual Investment Report. Resolution. That Council accepts the 2018 Annual Investment Report in accordance with the Town’s Investment Policy. Carried

9.2.1 – Train Whistle Cessation within Parry Sound. Direction (For Direct Staff Follow-up). That Council direct staff to not proceed any further with train whistle cessation in Parry Sound due to the risks to public safety and potential Town liability, as well as overburdening costs of implementing train whistle cessation. Carried
The following additional direction for Direct Staff Follow-up was proposed: That Staff be directed to continue its efforts to have the railway take steps needed to minimize screeching of rails, which is a longer, more piercing noise than the train whistles; and That budget monies be included in 2020 to undertake professional noise studies in order to support the advocacy of minimizing screeching of rails. Carried

9.2.2 – Tender – Equipment – 4-wheel drive articulating loader. Resolution. That Council accept the tender from Toromont Cat for a 2019 CAT 918M loader in the amount of $171,195.00, including taxes, delivery, and the trade-in of a 2009 CASE 521 E, this tender being the lowest of four received; and That Council also accept the tender from Toromont Cat for a weigh scale attachment in the amount of $11,650.30, including taxes and delivery; and That additional funds required to purchase said equipment be taken from the Public Works culvert replacement capital project. Carried

9.3.1 – Pick-up truck Replacement (Fire Department). Resolution. That Council for the Town of Parry Sound award the tender for a 2019 New Model 4X4 1/2 ton Pick up Crew Cab Short Box for the Fire Department to Williamson Chrysler/UBIC Vehicle Solutions Inc. in the amount of $45,263.28 including HST; And further that the offering of $12,600 for the purchase of the replaced 2007 GMC by Gore Bay Gordon Barry Island Fire Department be accepted. Carried

9.4.1 – WPS Geography Network wins MISA Award. Presentation of award-winning West Parry Sound Geography Network web-based GIS application /portal. Direction. That the report and presentation be received for information purposes. Carried

9.4.2 – Join the FCM – ICLEI (Local Governments for Sustainability) Partners for Climate Protection Program. Resolution. That Council hereby adopts the resolution attached as Schedule A, being a resolution prepared by FCM–ICLEI (Local Governments for Sustainability) Partners for Climate Protection Program to:
endorse the Government of Canada’s commitment to the Paris Agreement to limit global temperature increase to below two degrees Celsius and to pursue efforts to limit the global temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius; and commit to reviewing the guidelines on PCP member benefits and responsibilities and then communicate to FCM its participation in the PCP program and its commitment to achieving the milestones set out in the PCP five-milestone framework; and further That Council hereby appoints Forrest Pengra to oversee implementation of the PCP milestones and be the point of contact for the PCP within the municipality. Carried

By-laws

10.1.1 – By-law to specify claw back percentages for 2019 property taxes. By-law 2019 – 6934. Being a By-law to Specify the “Claw-back Percentages” in Respect of Properties in theCommercial Class for 2019 Taxation Year. Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.1.2 – Strategic Asset Management Policy and regulatory changes. By-law 2019 – 6935. Being a By-law to approve the Strategic Asset Management Policy for the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound. Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.2.1 – StreetScan Agreement for Road Assessment Service. By-law 2019 – 6936. Being a by-law to execute an agreement with StreetScan Canada ULC for a Road Assessment Service. Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.3.1 – Building Permit By-law amendment to include Alternative Solution proposals and fees. By-law 2019 – 6937. Being a By-law to amend the Building Permit By-law to establish a process for evaluation of Alternative Solution proposals; and amend the Fees By-law to set fees. Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.4.1 – MOU – YMCA Simcoe/Muskoka for drop-in recreational programs. By-law 2019 – 6938. Being a bylaw to authorize the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding with Simcoe/Muskoka YMCA for delivery of drop-in recreation programming at the YMCA of Parry Sound. Passed, Signed and Sealed.

The Mayor announced a 5-minute recess and adjourned to a closed meeting at 9 PM in order to attend to unfinished items from the Closed Agenda. Upon the conclusion of dealing with matters in Closed Meeting, Mayor McGarvey reconvened in Open Meeting at 9:30 P.M.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – May 21, 2019

31 Friday May 2019

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

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budget, By-Law, Council Minutes, DBA, Fire Department, Infrastructure, parry sound, Planning, PS Power, Rezoning, safety, Taxes, Town Council

There is not much to comment on with respect to the last council meeting. The highlights and decisions are noted below.

Closed Meeting

e) Litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board. (Claim Against the Municipality Regarding 2018 Election; Town property matter)

f) the receiving of advice that is subject to solicitor-Client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose. (Claim Against the Municipality Regarding 2018 Election; Town property matter)

Public Meeting

2.1 – Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/05 – W.E.H. Development Phase 2 (W.E.H. Developments Limited). Subsequent to an explanation of how the public was notified of Z/19/05 – W.E.H. Development Phase 2 (W.E.H. Developments Limited), Taylor Elgie, Manager of Building & Planning Services gave an explanation of the purpose of the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment, reporting that the applicant has requested to amend the R2, R2 (h), S.P. 26.49 (h) & S.P. 26.50 (h) zones to:
1. Permit single detached dwellings, semi-detached dwellings, and triplex dwellings (in the form of rowhouses);
2. Reduce the minimum lot frontage for single detached from 15 metres to 12 metres, reduce the minimum lot frontage for semi-detached from 10 metres to 7 metres per unit, and reduce the minimum lot frontage of a three-unit row house to 5.8 metres per unit;
3. Reduce the minimum lot area for a semi-detached dwelling from 300 square metres to 240 square metres per unit, and reduce the minimum lot area for a three-unit row dwelling to 190 square metres per unit;
4.Reduce the minimum interior side yard to 1.3 metres for semi-detached units and end units of three-unit row house units (interior units will be 0 metres);
5.Increase the lot coverage for semi-detached dwellings and three-unit row house units from 30% to 40% (including accessory buildings); and
6.Rezone the rear portions of the lots abutting the ravine/railway to an Open Space buffer zone.
The property is vacant and at the end of Winnifred Avenue, described Lots 21-49 and Blocks 51-54 of 42M648,
No member of the public responded to the Mayor’s invitation to speak in favour of the proposed zoning by-law amendment.
Al Kinnear of 16 Avery Court responded to the Mayor’s invitation to speak in opposition of the proposed zoning by-law amendment. Mr. Kinnear said that he thought the area would be pretty crowded, especially with 3 row houses, reducing the frontage to 5.8 meters, (only about 16-18′ wide per unit), with parking in front of these units. Mr. Kinnear proposed that the frontage should be 7 meters per unit. Mr. Kinnear also suggested that the frontage should be 14 meters for the single detached and 9 meters for the semi detached. Otherwise Mr. Kinnear reported that he has no qualms about the development; Mr. Hall has shown him the plans and he gives him credit for developing the property.
Mr. Elgie reported that two letters have been received as a result of the zoning by-law amendment notice. One letter is in opposition, alleging that the frontage will not permit enough snow storage. The second letter from CN rail submitted general comments which will be discussed in greater detail in the upcoming report.
Mayor McGarvey concluded the public meeting with notice that public should contact staff or check the Town’s website to see when this amendment will come back for a decision. Council, at its discretion, may approve the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment. If so, it must either circulate notice of passing of the by-law or give notice in the local press. Objections to the passing of the by-law will be received by the Clerk within 20 days from the date such notice is given, which objections will be forwarded to the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal. If an appeal is submitted and the appellant has not provided Council with an oral or written submission before the passing of the by-law, the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal may choose to dismiss the appeal.

Questions of Staff

3.2.1 – In response to Councillor McCann’s inquiry as to how the recent EMS Fundraiser went, Director of Emergency & Protective Services Dave Thompson reported that the fundraiser, with drive thru tolls set up in various area locations over the past weekend went well, with the goal to raise money for public access to and training on the use of defibrillators. Mr. Thompson extended thanks to those volunteers who participated in the fundraiser and those who donated.

3.2.2 – In response to Councillor Borneman’s inquiry of CAO Clayton Harris regarding the implications of the recent announcement from the province on budget cuts, Mr. Harris reported that there is a direct impact of 166,000 to the Town, shared with other municipalities with respect to cuts to Land Ambulance. As the Town’s budget was already set when the provincial announcement was made, Mr. Harris reported that staff is looking at what adjustments need to be made. In addition, Mr. Harris reported that earlier in the year, the provincial grant to the Town of $668,000 was announced, with the accompanying suggestion that municipalities look at modernization, technological advances and collaborate with neighbours to make local government more efficient. In response, Mr. Harris reported that the Town is looking at all its technology projects scheduled for 2019 and beyond with an aim to prioritize them for the biggest financial benefit, with a report scheduled to come back to Council on how to achieve savings. Mr. Harris noted that the indirect implications of the provincial announcement on service delivery such as consolidating health delivery into 10 regional health units likely has greater impact. When this happens, not only the Town, but the community will experience this.
Mr. Harris noted two things in response to these provincial announcements and implications, i.e. that it is fortunate that our Mayor is the President of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), with the opportunity for consultation between AMO and the province before certain initiatives are undertaken; and that staff are encouraged to get involved in their respective professional associations to bring forward issues to the province; e.g. the Manager of Taxation is involved in the Ontario Municipal Tax and Revenue Association, which may be consulted on property tax assessment.

3.2.3 – In response to Councillor Borneman’s follow-up inquiry as to what position AMO has taken on the provincial announcements, Mayor McGarvey reported that AMO has been reaching out to the government on numerous occasions, is at Queen’s Park every day and has responded to provincial consultations, such as a new housing plan. The Mayor noted that unfortunately with issues such as land ambulance and public health, the province did not consult, and it is difficult to make suggestions to an initial provincial announcement only that a general review is being undertaken. Mayor McGarvey noted that municipalities are receiving funding at 2017 levels, and it is unknown from recent announcements if municipalities are additionally responsible for First Nations and Unorganized Townships’ costs which have previously been funded by the province.
In response to Mayor McGarvey’s suggestion that the Town might advocate a message to the provincial government that it needs to consult with municipalities, the following motion for direction was made:
THAT a resolution be prepared for the next Council meeting which advocates for meaningful consultation by the province with municipalities on issues which impact municipalities.Carried

Correspondence

4.1 – Tom & Lianne Piddington. Concerns with water pooling on private properties from a plugged culvert ostensibly the Town’s culvert. The concerns documented in this correspondence have previously been forwarded to the Director of Public Works. Any further action is at the direction of Council.
Moved – That the Piddington letter be referred to staff for a report to Council at the June 18th, 2019 meeting. Carried

4.2 – Kyle Boyko on behalf of Inspire Tech Canada Corp. Request for Financial Support to host Future Technology Expos in Parry Sound Referred to the Finance Department to include with other requests to be brought forward at the end of the year, for the 2020 budget process.

4.3 – Township of Essa. Request to support circulation of Essa Public Library’s petition requesting reinstatement of funding to the Ontario Library Service (North and South) agencies to a minimum of 2017-18 funding levels. A resolution related to this issue is on the agenda – item 9.5.1

Deputations

5.1 – Shawna Woods. Concerns with planned removal of anchor from Georgian Bay. Shawna Woods addressed Council with concerns over the planned removal of the anchor belonging to the Atlantic from its Georgian Bay resting place, as reported in the May 8th North Star. Ms. Woods noted that there are already 10 anchors located on grounds in Parry Sound, some without any history chronicling them, and none under proper conservation. As an avid scuba diver and manager of the local dive club, Ms. Woods advocated that the anchor be left where it is in Georgian Bay, and protected as an official dive site, to be a linking dive to the wreck itself. Ms. Woods noted that a dive site like this is a draw for other visiting divers, increasing tourism revenue. Ms. Woods noted that upon naming her objections to the person who located the anchor three years ago, he has reported that if the Town of Parry Sound agrees to leave the anchor alone, he has no objections, and will provide her with the coordinates so it can be registered as a protected historical dive site. Ms. Woods concluded her deputation requesting that the Town leave the Atlantic anchor where it lies and permit it being protected as an official dive site.

5.2 – Renata Purcell, Debra Jones. Strings Across the Sky. Renata Purcell introduced the program Strings Across the Sky, developed initially for Indigenous youth, empowering them to be self confident, proud and instilling a love of music. Ms. Purcell noted that Strings Across the Sky runs a music camp in the summer in Parry Sound, this year starting on July 22nd, and is requesting $2,000 to keep this camp running. Executive and Artistic Director Debra Jones provided further background on the program, noting that it is a registered charity, founded in 1989 by her aunt Andrea Hansen, who had become aware through a tour of the far north, of a 400-year old fiddling heritage there, and was impassioned to rekindle this tradition. Ms. Jones said that more importantly, the program targets at-risk indigenous youth and with its inclusion of non-indigenous youth, builds cross-cultural bridges, empathy and compassion. Ms. Jones described the unique and effective teaching method which has received numerous awards, as well as the social, mental and intellectual benefits of music making. Ms. Jones noted that the one-week summer program came to Parry Sound in 2004 in partnership with the Festival of the Sound and the Parry Sound Friendship Centre, and that as of last year, a weekly program has been developed, located at the HUB. Ms. Jones concluded her deputation with the financial support request, following which 2 members of the program – Eli Martens and Zaria Purcell performed a fiddle and guitar piece.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 – Approve Signing Authority. Resolution. Whereas the Council for the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound approved Resolutions 2014-030 and 2014-228 approving signing authority and credit card authority to Members of Council and certain members of staff; and Whereas there are no changes to the position or authority levels at this time; and Whereas there has been a change in the Director of Finance position; Now therefore be it resolved that Resolution 2018-026 be amended to formally remove Kim Chen, Director of Finance/Treasurer as a signing authority; and Further that Stephanie Phillips, Director of Finance/Treasurer be added as a signing authority. Carried

9.2.1 – Cemetery By-law Price List. Direction. That staff be directed to increase the price of Interment Rights only on the Cemetery Price List by 10%. Carried

9.2.2 – Cemetery Truck (08-090) Replacement. Direction. That Council approve staff to single source a new model vehicle for the replacement of the current cemetery vehicle (08-090) after no bids were received through the tender process.
Moved that the direction be postponed until dealers in Town can respond to the question as to why they did not bid. Direction to postpone defeated. The original direction was voted on: Carried

9.3.1 – Fire Department Health and Safety Policies. Resolution. That the Council for the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound approves the Fire Department Health and Safety Policies attached as Schedule A, And further, that upon the agreement of the Parry Sound Fire Department Joint Health and Safety Committee, the CAO and Fire Chief are authorized to make changes to the policies attached as Schedule A to ensure that they remain current and in compliance with Occupational Health and Safety standards. Carried

9.4.1 – Appointment of a Designate for the Lakeland Power Shareholder Meeting. Resolution. That Councillor Borneman be appointed as the Mayor’s designate for the purposes of Lakeland Power shareholder meetings. Carried

9.4.2 – Negotiating Team – Seguin-Town Boundary Adjustment. Resolution. That Council appoint the Mayor, Councillor Horne, Councillor McCann and the CAO, Mr. Clayton Harris to the Town’s Negotiating Team regarding Seguin Township-Town of Parry Sound boundary adjustment. Carried

9.5.1 – Township of Essa Petition re: Provincial funding to Libraries. Resolution. WHEREAS the Ontario Library Service North and Southern Ontario Library Service provide the support for interlibrary loans, staff and board training, bulk purchasing, collaborative programming, technological supports, shared electronic book collections and shared catalogue databases; and WHEREAS the Town of Parry Sound supports the Essa Public Library Board in their initiative to circulate a petition seeking support for the Ontario Public Library Board in The Corporation of The Town of Parry Sound Council Meeting Minutes May 21, 2019 their request for the reinstatement of funding to the Ontario Library Service (North and South) agencies to, at a minimum, 2017-18 funding levels, in order for these agencies to continue their day-to-day support of Ontario Public Library Services, and to continue to maintain base funding for Ontario Public Libraries; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT this resolution be forwarded to the office of MPP Simcoe-Grey Jim Wilson, MPP Parry Sound-Muskoka Norm Miller, AMO, and the initiating municipality – Township of Essa and to Minister of Tourism (friendly amendment). Carried

By-laws

10.1.1 – Business Improvement Area (BIA) Levy By-law – Downtown Business Area. By-law 2019 – 6924. 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 2019. Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.1.2 – Striking tax rates for fiscal year 2019. By-Law 2019 – 6926. Being a bylaw to Strike the Tax Rates for Municipal Purposes for the Year 2019. Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.3.1 – Rezoning Application – Z/19/3 – 32 Riverdale Road (Laforme/Hubert). By-law 2019 – 6925. Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for 32 Riverdale Road (Laforme/Hubert). Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.3.2 – Housekeeping – Deem Planning Applications Complete. By-Law 2019 – 6927. Being a By-law to amend By-law 2007-5089 to Delegate Certain Powers and Duties of Council Under the Planning Act (Deem Complete). Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.3.3 – Deeming By-law – W.E.H Phase 2 – Lots 46 – 49. By-law 2019 – 6928. Being a By-law to deem certain lots in the Town of Parry Sound not to be part of a registered Plan of Subdivision (W.E.H. – Lots 46 – 49, Winnifred Avenue). Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.3.4 – Appointment Bylaw – Ulysses Gibson – Municipal Law Enforcement Officer. By-law 2019 – 6929. Being a bylaw to appoint Ulysses Gibson as a Municipal Law Enforcement Officer. Passed, Signed & Sealed

Council Agenda Preview – May 7, 2019

05 Sunday May 2019

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

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Agenda, Archipelago, By-Law, Fire Department, Growth, parry sound, Planning, Rezoning, safety, Town Council

This is a rather remarkable Town of Parry Sound council meeting with only a single resolution on the agenda.

Notable Items:

4.4 & Closed Session (c) – There seems to be activity afoot to sell the CP Station to the Festival of the Sound. It will be interesting to see what terms are agreed. For everything that the Festival provides for the Town it is interesting to see how much they are still dependent on the Town for direct and indirect support. It’s like having a 40-year child coming back for handouts.

10.3.3 – It looks as though we will have a Best Western in town. It will add another hundred or so beds. How many more beds have been created in town with the general acceptance of Airbnb? I hope the private individuals who are playing the Airbnb game have their fire detectors up to date. Is this something the Fire Department monitors? Do we have a safety issue hiding in plain sight?

Closed Session
(c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board; (CP Station)

Public Meeting
2.1 – Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/03 – 32 Riverdale Road. (Laforme/Hubert).
2.2 – Proposed fee for the consideration of Alternative Solutions as defined by the Ontario Building Code.

Correspondence
4.1 – Ontario BIA Association. Notice of Award at the 2019 OBIAA Conference to the Parry Sound DBA in the Special Events + Promotions – Small category judged on five BIA pillars: Innovation, Replication, Representation, Outcome, and Accessibility.
4.2 – Township of Seguin. Re: Official Plan Amendment No. 9 Recreational Water Quality Model Update.
4.4 – Scott Scarrow, Board member, Granite Harbour. Granite Harbour waste collection concerns.

Deputations
5.1 – Ian Fleming, Alison Scarrow, Dan DiNicolo, Donald Sanderson, John Sallinen, Festival of the Sound Board. Future of the CP Station/Festival Office.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.4.1 – Appointment as a WPS SMART Member. Resolution. That Clayton Harris, the Town’s Chief Administrative Officer be appointed as a member of WPS SMART to represent the Town, replacing the former representative, Rob Mens, the former CAO.

By-laws
10.1.1 – Financial Assistance to Elderly Persons Centres. Direction. To process the grant payment to Parry Sound Seniors Club in the amount of $5,000, as approved through the 2019 Budget Process, being 100% of the budget for Seniors Assistance; and Provide correspondence to the Parry Sound Seniors Club indicating the October 31 deadline for their annual grant requests; and encourage the Club review their membership’s place of residence and request financial support from those area communities as well.
By-law 2019 – 6917. Being a By-law to revoke By-law 2001-4399 regarding an out-dated funding provision for an Elderly Persons Centre.
10.1.2 – Appointment of Treasurer. By-law 2019 – 6921. Being a By-law to appoint Stephanie Phillips as Treasurer of the Town of Parry Sound.
10.3.1 – Pointe au Baril EMS Base. By-law 2019 – 6918. Being a By-law to authorize the execution of an agreement with the Township of The Archipelago for the use and occupation of the EMS Base located at 70 South Shore Rd., Pointe au Baril.
10.3.2 – Primary Public Safety Answering Point. By-law 2019 – 6920. Being a By-law to authorize the execution of an agreement with the OPP for the provision of 9-1-1 Primary PSAP Services.
10.3.3 – Rezoning Application – Z/19/02 – Pine Drive (John Jackson Planner Inc. on Behalf of V.G. Cox Limited). By-law 2019-6922. Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for Pine Drive (John Jackson Planner Inc. on Behalf of V.G. Cox Limited)
Direction for Staff Follow-up: That staff be directed to bring forward pole sign renewal until January 31, 2045 for Oastler Park Shopping Plaza Limited.
10.4.1 – Georgian Nordic Paddling MOU RE: William Street Park for Paddling Training Centre. By-law 2019 – 6919. Being a by-law to approve the memorandum of understanding with Georgian Nordic Paddling for use of William Street Park as a paddling training centre.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – April 16, 2019

19 Friday Apr 2019

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

≈ 1 Comment

Tags

budget, By-Law, Council Minutes, Growth, parry sound, Planning, Rezoning, safety, School, Taxes, Town Council

You are busy people, so I focus on what I consider to be the key issues. The highlights of the meeting along with my comments are at the beginning followed by a more comprehensive summary. Refer to the full agenda and minutes at the Town’s website as well as the online recording (YouTube) for additional information and details.

2.1 – Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/02 – Pine Drive. It looks as though there will be a 75 to 100 unit Best Western hotel going up across from The Source on Pine Drive. There are some complaints from the Big Box stores about blocking views and creating additional traffic, but these are unlikely to gain traction. I expect that some of the smaller hotels in Town will either need to upgrade their services or think about a conversion to apartments. There is only so much of a need for hotel rooms outside of the summer season.

7.1 – Settlement for an Appeal for Acorn Ridge. It also seems that the Acorn Ridge development on Louisa Street will be going forward. A settlement of some sort was reached with the folks on Louisa Street opposing the development. That’s good news for the Town in terms of additional tax revenue. It also means that Louisa Street will be upgraded from the mess it currently is.

9.3.1 – Sidewalk Patios in the Downtown. It will be possible for folks to have a sandwich on James Street this summer. I’m not sure about a beer or a cigarette, or heaven forbid a toke. It seems that the use of these patios will be restricted to customers. No brown bagging it folks. The after-hour folks should be able to have a beer and a toke if no one is watching too closely. Actually they will be able have a toke, but not a beer if I understand current provincial regulations.

9.4.1 – Canadore College Rental of Space for Non-College Uses. The Town put its foot down and said no. Seems reasonable to me. I understand how Canadore would like the guaranteed revenue, but you shouldn’t ask the kids to share a single bedroom so that you can take on boarders unless it’s make or break situation.

9.4.2 – 2019 Municipal Assistance Program Allocation. A copy of Schedule A was not included with the minutes so you may need to ask the Town if you are interested. It’s not much money.

Closed Session

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

Public Meeting

2.1 – Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/02 – Pine Drive (John Jackson on behalf of V G Cox Limited). Clerk Rebecca Johnson reported that notice was given by prepaid first-class mail to the required prescribed agencies and property owners within 120 metres, posted in the newspaper, posted on the property, and was placed on the Town’s website. Manager of Building & Planning Services Taylor Elgie reported that the applicant has requested relief from the C3 zone for a hotel with a maximum height of 15.1 metres when currently only 10.5 metres is permitted and reduce sparking space sizes to 2.75 x 5.75 metres from the current requirement of 3 x 6 metres. The property is a vacant, cleared lot on Pine Drive, described as Part Lot 26 Concession 1, more particularly described as Parts 1 & 2 on 42R18868, in the Town of Parry Sound.

2.1.1 – Representing the proponents, John Jackson provided an update, noting that the property originally owned by Parry Sound Fuels has been transferred to the developers. Mr. Jackson reported that the developers are proposing to build a hotel of 75-100 units – the numbers dependent upon final architectural drawings with Best Western. The unconfirmed roof design may require a height of 15.1 metres, greater than 10.5 metres, which is the Town’s cap and will consist of 3 or 4 stories, like the Parry Sound Microtel. Location proposed is behind the car wash. In response to expressed concerns made by nearby big box businesses, Mr. Jackson said that the single storey in the sight lines of the big box stores will not block the view of them and that individual parking space sizes have been reduced to enable lots of parking without constraints. Mr. Jackson noted that the application is coming forward now, without certainty on roof height, because the proponents wish to move on the project so that it can be closed in by fall.

2.1.2 – No one spoke in opposition to the proposed zoning by-law amendment. Mr. Elgie reported that one letter, from Gerald Asa, had been received in opposition to the proposed zoning by-law amendment, citing the following concerns:
1) increase in height as it impacts negatively on the visibility of our buildings.
2) servicing works which may impact traffic flow along Pine Drive as the shopping centre is extremely busy in the summer time and requires all lanes be open and freely passable.
3) parking requirements.
4) sight lines for the access point to ensure that any vehicles exiting the hotel lands onto Pine Drive can be clearly visible to drivers leaving the shopping center.
5) exiting the hotel lot and ensuring a stop sign is a requirement.
6) storm water flows and ensuring none is directed onto our property.
Mayor McGarvey gave the following explanation on next steps: The public should contact staff or check the Town’s website to see when this amendment will come back for a decision. Council, at its discretion, may approve the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment. If so, it must either circulate notice of passing of the by-law or give notice in the local press. Objections to the passing of the by-law will be received by the Clerk within 20 days from the date such notice is given, which objections will be forwarded to the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal. If an appeal is submitted and the appellant has not provided Council with an oral or written submission before the passing of the by-law, the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal may choose to dismiss the appeal.

Questions of Staff

3.2.1 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiry regarding how to improve the pedestrian crossing situation at Waubeek Street/Avenue Road/Belvedere Avenue, Director of Public Works, Peter Brown proposed that crossing be improved by better signage in the area, and more definitive lines on the road. Mr. Brown suggested that this be included as part of the Wabueek Street reconstruction plans.

Correspondence

4.2 – Federal Minister of Infrastructure & Communities. Notice of the 2019 special 2.2 billion additional gas tax fund top-up to municipalities. This letter has been referred to all members of Council, the CAO and Directors.

Ratification of Matters from Closed Agenda

7.1 – Settlement for an Appeal for Acorn Ridge – Z/18/04. Whereas the Council for the Town of Parry Sound approved Zoning By-law Amendment Application Z18-04 – Acorn Ridge by By-law 2018-6871 on November 6, 2018; and Whereas this By-law applied to the lands described as Part of Lot 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 on the west side of Louisa Street on Plan 21, or more particularity described as Part 3 42R9332, Part 2 of 42R9754, and Parts 2 and 8 of 42R10238 (“the Subject Lands”); and Whereas this By-law was then appealed by Louis and Elise Rensonnet (the “Appellants”) to the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal and assigned case number PL180936 (the “Appeal”); and Whereas the Town of Parry Sound (the “Town”), the Appellants and Acorn Ridge Properties Inc. (the “Applicant”) have engaged in settlement talks to reach a compromise; and Whereas Minutes of Settlement have been negotiated which reach a settlement on the Appeal.
Now therefore be it resolved that the Mayor and Clerk are authorized to execute the Minutes of Settlement, attached as Schedule “A” to this resolution, And Further that Council directs staff to inform the signatories of the Minutes of Settlement when a site plan agreement is achieved, provide 30 days notice to the Appellants prior to the lifting of a holding provision on the subject lands, and that the site plan agreement be registered on title of the Subject Lands.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1– Ontario Regulation 284/09 – Excluded Expenses from the 2019 Budget. Resolution. That Council hereby adopts the compliance report for expenses excluded from the 2019 budget outlined in the staff Report and Recommendation “Ontario Regulation 284/09”, attached as Schedule “A”, as a requirement of Ontario Regulation 284/09 passed under the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c.25. Carried

9.2.1 – Water Inflow & Infiltration Study. Direction. That Council direct staff to continue working on the program of storm water separation from the sanitary sewer system, with the goal of removing all storm water inflow and infiltration from the sanitary sewer system. Carried

9.3.1 – Sidewalk Patios in the Downtown. Resolution. That the Council of the Town of Parry Sound adopt the Guiding Principles for Sidewalk Patios and endorse a one-year pilot project for a maximum of 4 Sidewalk Patios; and further That fees as required in the Guiding Principles be waived for the one-year pilot project only. Carried

9.3.2 – EMS Base in Seguin. Direction. That upon the recommendation of the EMS Advisory Committee, Town of Parry Sound Council direct staff to pursue in a cooperative fashion with Seguin Township, an agreement that will change the location of the EMS base from the Foley Fire Hall #2 to the Humphrey Fire Hall. Carried

9.3.3 – Greystone Development. Resolution.
1. That Council authorizes Joshua Morgan Planning & Development Inc. and Greystone Project Management Inc. to apply for applications under the Planning Act for Town owned lands described as Parts 1 and 2 of 42R21034; and furthermore, all costs related to these applications, including but not limited to the preparation of studies, infrastructure upgrades and defending an appeal, shall not be the responsibility of the Town of Parry Sound; and
2. That despite paragraph 1. of this Resolution, the Town’s fees in the amount of $3,335 for rezoning and official plan amendment applications shall be waived for Greystone Project Management Inc.; and
3. That the Clerk and Mayor are authorized to execute an amendment to the Agreement of Purchase and Sale as per the attached Schedule “A” to this Resolution.Carried

9.4.1 – Canadore College Rental of Space for Non-College Uses. Resolution. Whereas the Town of Parry Sound has long recognized the demand for skilled trades and the need for a post secondary educational institution to serve the Parry Sound area; Whereas in 2010 the Town of Parry Sound provided Canadore College with land to construct a post secondary college in Parry Sound; Whereas the Canadore College West Parry Sound Campus was established to deliver programs in the trades, adult and post secondary education serving the West Parry Sound area; Whereas the Town of Parry Sound provided Canadore College with an interest free forgivable mortgage, with Restrictive Covenants to ensure that the college remains a post secondary educational and training facility; Whereas it has been brought to the Town’s attention that the College is considering leasing a significant portion of the campus’s classroom space for use as an elementary school offering French language education up to Grade 8; Whereas concerns have been raised by the community with respect to undermining the quality of post secondary programming and the appropriateness of elementary age school children in an adult college environment; Whereas the Town of Parry Sound and the area municipalities are actively pursuing economic development opportunities and a post secondary college is integral to achieving the area’s economic development objectives; Whereas the Province has continued to voice significant concerns regarding the shortage of skilled workers in Ontario; Whereas Canadore College has not finalized the lease arrangement for the French elementary school. Now therefore be it resolved that Canadore College be advised of the Restrictive Covenants which are part of the Purchase and Sale Agreement and mortgage and they do not permit leasing space to an elementary school; And further that the importance of a post secondary college to the Parry Sound area economic development strategy be conveyed to Canadore College; And further that this Resolution be forwarded to the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities, the Canadore College Board of Governors, the President of Canadore College, the West Parry Sound Canadore College Campus Administrator, M.P.P. Norm Miller and the West Parry Sound area municipalities.
The following Motion to Postpone was made: That the resolution be postponed to the next Council meeting for the collection of further information from Canadore College on the intention to rent space for non-College use. Defeated
The original motion was voted on and Carried

9.4.2 – 2019 Municipal Assistance Program Allocation. That Council approve the 2019 Municipal Assistance Program allocations per Schedule A attached. Carried

9.4.3 – Investing in Canada Infrastructure Project. Resolution. That the Town of Parry Sound supports a joint project with the Township of Seguin for the realignment and lengthening of the runway at the Parry Sound Area Municipal Airport; and That the Town of Parry Sound will submit an application in the amount of $4.996 million for this joint project to the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP), for a total project cost of $9.996 million; and That the Town of Parry Sound supports the Township of Seguin as the lead applicant for the joint project, understanding that Seguin will cashflow the project, including the recipient’s total share of $1.167 million; and That the Parry Sound Area Municipal Airport Commission is responsible for all cost overruns and ineligible expenses of the joint project, should the provincial and federal funding for the joint project be approved. Carried

By-laws

10.1.1 – 2019 Budget. By-law 2019 – 6910. Being a By-law to Adopt the Operating and Capital Budget Estimates for the Year 2019 Read a First, Second & Third time, Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.1.2 – Temporary Borrowing Authorization. By-law 2019 – 6911. Being a by-law to authorize temporary borrowing to meet the current expenditures of the Town of Parry Sound until taxes are collected and other revenues are received. Read a First, Second & Third time, Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.3.1 – Parking & Traffic Control By-law for the Town of Parry Sound. By-law 2019 – 6912. Being a By-law to Regulate and Control Parking & Traffic in the Town of Parry Sound. Read a First, Second & Third time, Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.3.2 – Burks Falls EMS Base lease. By-law 2019 – 6913. Being a By-law to authorize the execution of an agreement with the Village of Burks Falls for the use and occupation of 150 Huston Street, known as the Ambulance Garage on the Almaguin Highlands Health Centre Site, for a five (5) year term. Read a First, Second & Third time, Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.3.3 – Zoning By-law Amendment – Barker, 21 Miller Street. By-law 2019 – 6914. Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for 21 Miller Street (Barker). Read a First, Second & Third time, Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.4.1 – Horticultural Society MOU for Town flower beds. By-law 2019 – 6915. Being a by-law to authorize execution of a memorandum of understanding with the Parry Sound District Horticultural Society for Town flower beds. Read a First, Second & Third time, Passed, Signed and Sealed.

Council Agenda Abridged Minutes – March 5, 2019

10 Sunday Mar 2019

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

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By-Law, Council Minutes, Environment, parry sound, safety, School, Taxes, Water Management

Here is an abridged version of the March 5^thminutes of the Town of Parry Sound council meeting. I’ve highlighted the more important items in my opinion. Refer to the full minutes that are available at the town’s website for additional information – http://www.parrysound.ca.

The only interesting item from my perspective is Item 9.3.1. I am not surprised by the decision of Council to top themselves up with the change in deductibility of expenses. I am also not surprised that Councillors Borneman and Keith voted against the top up. They have a sense of duty, but the top up is appropriate in my opinion. The two new councillors and the mayor voted in favour of a report on providing health/dental benefits. It perhaps represents the different personal situations of council members. Some may have these benefits as part of their current or past employment. I think that council should be compensated for the considerable work they do, but it shouldn’t become a job.

I am not providing timing links to the available video of meeting as there really wasn’t anything of note beyond what was included in the minutes.

Questions of Staff

3.2.1 – In response to Councillor McCann’s inquiry about how frequently the fibre bins get emptied as they were full when he was at the Transfer Station recently, Director of Public Works Peter Brown indicated that typically they get removed before they reach or exceed capacity, and that a compactor is being purchased which should help to increase capacity in the future.
3.2.2 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiry as to whether there is a plan for snow clearance around various fire hydrants, including having nearby residents participate in clearing them, Director of Public Works Peter Brown indicated that water treatment plant staff typically do the snow clearing, they have been out a couple of times already this year but typically don’t start the snow clearing until it stops snowing. A piece of equipment has been purchased which aids in more efficient clearing around the hydrants. Mr. Brown noted additionally, that “we’re experiencing residents who bury the hydrants” through snow-blowing and asked that residents cooperate by not doing this.
3.2.3 – In response to Councillor Borneman’s inquiry as to the status of the fog testing report as a result of work done last autumn to determine whether and/or where storm water is entering the sanitary system, Mr. Brown noted that the report is on his desk and he hopes to bring it to Council next month, after he has further opportunity to review it.

Correspondence

4.1 – Ed Horba, Project Manager, Transportation, GHD. Noise By-law exemption request for Highway 400 work at Parry Sound. Referred to By-law Enforcement Officer for follow-up.
4.3 – Marsha Rivers, CEO, Belvedere Heights. 2019 Municipal Levy for Belvedere Heights. Referred to Manager of Accounting.
4.4 – Rebecca Pollock, Chair, Parry Sound Active Transportation. Request to allocate in the 2019 budget, monies to determine the feasibility of applying the road diet concept to Parry Sound’s arterial roads, including any necessary engineering and planning reviews. Referred to Director of Public Works and copied to Manager of Accounting.
4.5 – Leah Harris, Town resident. Request that after-hours water service bills to shut off water be removed from their account. Referred to Manager of Accounting

Deputations

5.1 – John Cochrane, Near North District School Board Trustee Zone 4. Update on new Parry Sound High School. John Cochrane Vice Chair of Near North District School Board, accompanied by Jay Aspin, Chair NNDSB; and Craig Myles, Superintendent of Education, addressed Council with respect to Parry Sound High School, noting that the current school is 68 years old and in need of replacing. Mr. Cochrane recommended that Council pass a resolution urging the Education Ministry to quickly approve the plan, get shovels in the ground this spring, with copies to Premier Ford, Minister Lisa Thompson, Vic Fedeli and local MPP Norm Miller.
5.2 – Becky Pollock, Executive Director, Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve. Proposed “Community Energy Plan” for the biosphere region. Becky Pollock, accompanied by David Bywater, Environmental Scientist with GBBR, addressed Council with a presentation entitled Towards a Regional Energy Plan & Community Climate Action. Ms. Pollock reported on climate change indicators on Georgian Bay over the last 50 to 100 years, resulting in more frequent and severe weather events such as floods, droughts, storms and forest fires causing damage to infrastructure, a psychological toll, and increased insurance rates. Ms. Pollock advocated working together to create corporate and community wide energy plans with the Town, Townships and First Nations throughout the area to combat this and referred to the Partners for Climate Protection (PCP) program, developed by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), as an appropriate standardized framework to use. Ms. Pollock described the steps of using the PCP framework and requested that Council consider the following:
1. appoint a representative to the regional effort;
2. sign on to the PCP resolution;
3. provide seed funding of up to $5,000.
Ms. Pollock concluded noting that these requests were provided in a letter to Council, as follow-up to the deputation.

Ratification of Matters from Closed Agenda

7.1. – EMS Advisory Committee appointments. Resolution 2019 – 016. That the Council of the Town of Parry Sound approve the nomination to the EMS Advisory Committee of; Mayor Jamie McGarvey, Scott Sheard, Rod Osborne, Kim Dixon, Maurice Turgeon, Lyle Hall and Cathy Still for the current term of Council. Carried

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 – 2018 Water System Summary Report. Carried

9.1.2 – RFP – Biosolids Haulage & Beneficial Re-use/Disposal. Carried

9.1.3 – 2019 Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiatives Annual Conference. Carried

9.2.1 – Revision to 2018 Land Ambulance Budget. Carried

9.3.1 – Council Members 1/3 Tax Exemption. That staff be directed to implement remuneration increases of elected officials retroactive to January 1, 2019, as recommended in this report and consistent with Council direction as set-out in By-law 2015 – 6554.
Recorded vote requested by Councillor Keith
Councillor V. Backman Yes
Councillor P. Borneman No
Councillor R. Burden Yes
Councillor B. Horne Yes
Councillor B. Keith No
Councillor D. McCann Yes
Mayor J. McGarvey Yes
Direction Carried 5 – 2
Direction for Staff Follow-up: That staff bring Council group benefits options (health/dental) for consideration to a future Council meeting.
Recorded vote requested by Councillor Keith
Councillor V. Backman Yes
Councillor P. Borneman No
Councillor R. Burden Yes
Councillor B. Horne No
Councillor B. Keith No
Councillor D. McCann No
Mayor J. McGarvey Yes
Direction Defeated 3 – 4
Direction for Staff Follow-up:
That upon approval of Council direction regarding remuneration increases retroactive to January 1, 2019, staff present a comprehensive compensation by-law for Council members to the next Council meeting. Carried

9.3.2 – Request for Faster Response time from Provincial & Federal Grant Funding Authorities. Carried

9.3.3 – Director of Finance Recruitment – Sub-Committee of Council Appointments. That pursuant to the Town hiring policy, the Sub-Committee for the hiring of the Director of Finance position be composed of the following Members of Council:
Councillor Borneman
Councillor Horne
Councillor Keith
Carried

9.4.1 – Motorized Mobile Ice Cream Truck. Carried

9.5.1 – “Right to Approve” Landfill Developments. Carried

By-laws

10.2.1 – Appointment of Will Williamson as a Building Inspector. Passed, Signed and Sealed this 5th day of March, 2019.

10.2.2 – Site Plan Development Agreement with Infrastructure Ontario (OPP Station – 1 North Road). Passed, Signed and Sealed this 5th day of March, 2019.

Council Agenda Preview – March 5, 2019

02 Saturday Mar 2019

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

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Agenda, By-Law, economic development, Environment, Land Ambulance, parry sound, Planning, safety, Social Services, TOPS Staff, Town Council

This coming week sees a rather full meeting agenda for Town of Parry Sound Council. The notable items are briefly commented upon below. The agenda itself follows.

Closed Session b) – proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board: (property appraisal). I wonder if this has anything to do with the property the Town purchased from the Province on Oastler Park Drive across from the Canadian Tire building.
Closed Session c) – labour relations or employee negotiations: (CAO employment agreement workplan).Hmmm!

9.3.1– Council Members 1/3 Tax Exemption. Councillor and Mayor remuneration is proposed to increase along with their benefits. The annual cost to the Town is about $35,000.

10.2.2- Site Plan Development Agreement with Infrastructure Ontario (OPP Station – 1 North Road). It looks as though the OPP facility move is ‘moving’ forward. That should mean a little less traffic in Town and ultimately the availability of prime waterfront real estate for development. A map showing the location of the new facility is included at the end of this post.

As always, refer to the full Council Agenda Package at the Town’s website for all included materials. The full package this week is 94 pages.

Heads Up – I have crunched the numbers on what amalgamation would likely mean for individual municipality tax rates. I’ll roll out the analysis in series of posts starting early this coming week.

Closed Session

b) personal matter about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees: (EMS Advisory Committee Appointments);

c) proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board: (property appraisal);

d) labour relations or employee negotiations: (CAO employment agreement workplan);

e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board: (assessment appeal); (property matter);

Correspondence

4.1– Ed Horba, Project Manager, Transportation, GHD. Noise By-law exemption request for Highway 400 work at Parry Sound

4.2– Stephannie MacDonald, Town resident. Appreciation for Operations staff’s work fixing watermain break on February 24th on Riverdale Road

4.3– Marsha Rivers, CEO, Belvedere Heights. 2019 Municipal Levy for Belvedere Heights.

4.4– Rebecca Pollock, Chair, Parry Sound Active Transportation. Request to allocate in the 2019 budget, monies to determine the feasibility of applying the road diet concept to Parry Sound’s arterial roads, including any necessary engineering and planning reviews.

4.5– Leah Harris, Town resident. Request that after-hours water service bills to shut off water be removed from their account.

4.6– Municipality of Neebing. Request for resolution of support to appeal to both AMO and ROMA to split Zone 9 into 2 geographical districts; and to ROMA, to limit the vote to one per municipality at its annual general meeting election for zone representation.

Deputations

5.1– John Cochrane, Near North District School Board Trustee Zone 4. Update on new Parry Sound High School

5.2– Becky Pollock, Executive Director, Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve. Proposed “Community Energy Plan” for the biosphere region

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1– 2018 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 S.O. 2002, C. 32 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 that the report is given to 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 Plant, Large Municipal Residential Drinking Water System Summary Report 2018”, as prepared by Kyle Hall, Manager of Water Systems.

9.1.2– RFP – Biosolids Haulage & Beneficial Re-use/Disposal. Resolution. That Council accepts the proposal from WESSUC Inc. for biosolids haulage and beneficial re-use/disposal in the all-inclusive amount of $20.33/ mÑfor a three-year term,to:
1. Locate, licence, certify or re-certify field(s) as or when required for the purpose of biosolids application and beneficial re-use, including soil testing and pH adjustment as required;
2. Provide the Town, the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks and farmers with all required documentation;
3. Haul and apply biosolids on licenced disposal sites.
This proposal being the lowest of two proposals received.

9.1.3– 2019 Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiatives Annual Conference. Resolution. That pursuant to By-law 2002-4549 which requires prior Council approval for attendance at seminars, conferences and conventions outside the Province of Ontario; Council authorizes the Director of Public Works to attend the 2019 Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiatives Annual Conference to be held in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, June 5 – 7, 2019.

9.2.1– Revision to 2018 Land Ambulance Budget. Resolution. That the Council of the Town of Parry Sound approve the revised 2018 Land Ambulance Budget that includes an additional $309,357 incurred for higher than normal sick time occurring in the 2018 fiscal year.

9.3.1– Council Members 1/3 Tax Exemption. Direction. That staff be directed to implement remuneration increases of elected officials retroactive to January 1, 2019, as recommended in this report and consistent with Council direction as set-out in By-law 2015 – 6554.
Direction for Staff Follow-up: That staff bring Council group benefits options (health/dental) for consideration to a future Council meeting.
Direction for Staff Follow-up: That upon approval of Council direction regarding: remuneration increases retroactive to January 1, 2019; and consideration of Council group benefits (health, dental); staff present a comprehensive compensation by-law for Council members to a future Council meeting.

9.3.2– Request for Faster Response time from Provincial & Federal Grant Funding Authorities. Resolution. Whereas the Town of Parry Sound supports Bill 47, Making Ontario Open for Business Act, 2018; and
Whereas the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) promotes and stimulates economic development initiatives in Northern Ontario by providing financial assistance to projects that foster the economic growth and diversification of the region; and
Whereas the NOHFC Northern Business Opportunity Program provides funding which is of special interest to small and medium-sized advanced manufacturing businesses from outside of Northern Ontario; and Whereas such businesses wish to establish their operations in Northern Ontario with support of the NOHFC funding; and
Whereas processing of NOHFC Business Expansion and New Investment Projects applications currently takes more than 8 months;
Whereas lengthy processing times are a challenge in Northern Ontario where construction seasons are shorter due to the climate and various environmental restrictions at certain times of the year; and Whereas, in some cases, lengthy approvals result in losing out on investment opportunities and applicants abandoning their applications and their plans to locate in Northern Ontario; and Whereas these delays adversely affect the objectives of the Program.
Now therefore be it resolved that the Town of Parry Sound supports the Provincial Government’s focus on how to cut government red tape, improve government programs and services; and That NOHFC Business Expansion and New Investment funding application procedures and processing times should be reviewed with the objective of reducing approval timelines to 6 months or less. That NOHFC expedite the application process by retaining more than one audit firm to undertake the auditing of the applications. That a copy of this resolution be forwarded to: the Honourable Vic Fedeli, MPP, Minister of Finance; the Honourable Greg Rickford, MPP, Minister of Energy, Northern Development and Mines/Minister of Indigenous Affairs; Mr. Norman Miller, MPP, Parry Sound – Muskoka.

9.3.3– Director of Finance Recruitment – Sub-Committee of Council Appointments. Direction. That pursuant to the Town hiring policy, the Sub-Committee for the hiring of the Director of Finance position be composed of the following Members of Council:
_________________________________________

9.4.1– Motorized Mobile Ice Cream Truck. Resolution. That Council for the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound hereby grants permission for Mr. J. Athanasiou to operate one motorized mobile ice cream truck for the time period of May 10th, 2018 to September 30, 2018 on municipally owned roads and lands of the Town of Parry Sound subject to the following conditions:
Note: see full agenda for details. (Not included in this Council Agenda Preview)

9.5.1– “Right to Approve” Landfill Developments. Resolution.
WHEREAS municipal governments in Ontario do not have the right to approve landfill projects in their communities, but have authority for making decisions on all other types of development;
AND WHEREAS this out-dated policy allows private landfill operators to consult with local residents and municipal Councils, but essentially ignore them;
AND WHEREAS Ontario’s proposed “Made-in-Ontario Environment Plan” states that the province will grant municipalities a “greater say in siting of landfills”;
AND WHEREAS municipalities already have exclusive rights for approving casinos and nuclear waste facilities within their communities, whether to host cannabis retail in their communities, AND FURTHER that the province has recognized the value of municipal approval for the siting of power generation facilities;
AND WHEREAS the recent report from Ontario’s Environmental Commissioner has found that Ontario has a garbage problem, particularly from Industrial, Commercial and Institutional (ICI) waste generated within the City of Toronto, where diversion rates are as low as 15%;
AND UNLESS significant efforts are made to increase recycling and diversion rates, a new home for this Toronto garbage will need to be found, as landfill space is filling up quickly;
AND WHEREAS municipalities across Ontario are quietly being identified and targeted as potential landfill sites for future Toronto garbage by private landfill operators;
AND WHEREAS other communities should not be forced to take Toronto waste, as landfills can contaminate local watersheds, air quality, dramatically increase heavy truck traffic on community roads, and reduce the quality of life for local residents;
AND WHEREAS municipalities should be considered experts in waste management, as they are responsible for this within their own communities, and often have decades’ worth of in-house expertise in managing waste, recycling, and diversion programs;
AND WHEREAS municipalities should have the exclusive right to approve or reject these projects, and assess whether the potential economic benefits are of sufficient value to offset any negative impacts and environmental concerns;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Town of Parry Sound calls upon the Government of Ontario, as part of its “Made-in-Ontario Environment Plan” to formally entrench the right of municipalities to approve or reject landfill projects in or adjacent to their communities;
AND THAT in the case of a two-tier municipality, the approval be required at both the upper-tier and affected lower-tier municipalities;
AND FURTHER THAT the Town of Parry Sound encourage all other municipalities in Ontario to consider this motion calling for immediate provincial action;
AND THAT the MOTION adopted by Council be forwarded to the DEMAND THE RIGHT COALITION OF ONTARIO MUNICIPALITIES.

By-laws

10.2.1– Appointment of Will Williamson as a Building Inspector. By-law 2019-6898. Being a By-law to appoint Will Williamson as a Building Inspector for the Town of Parry Sound.

10.2.2– Site Plan Development Agreement with Infrastructure Ontario (OPP Station – 1 North Road). By-law 2019-6899. Being a By-law to authorize a Site Plan / Development Agreement with Infrastructure Ontario (OPP Station – 1 North Road).

Parry Sounds

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Tag Archives: safety

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Council Agenda Abridged Minutes – March 5, 2019