Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – June 16, 2020

21 Sunday Jun 2020

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By-Law, Council Minutes, economic development, Infrastructure, parry sound, Planning, Rezoning, School, Taxes, Town Council

Here are no surprise decisions reported in the minutes of last week’s council meeting. A few notes on the minutes:

2.1 – Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment Z/20/03 – 9 Church Street.
This item received a little more attention than I thought it would. I expect that it will be approved.
7.2. – Minutes of Settlement – School Board.
This relates to the Town’s opposition of the French School’s temporary location at Canadore. I have no idea what was settled but the Town was arguably out of line in their opposition to the School’s original request. I think the Town should release the settlement agreement for public review. Town of Parry Sound Staff and Council work for us, they should not be permitted to ‘bury’ their mistakes. We all need to learn from them. There is no obvious issue of confidentiality for individuals. If Council screwed up and a settlement was required we need to know about it. Council, for all of the civility and openness they project have a habit of hiding things. There have been other settlements in the past that would reflect poorly on them. They need to ‘own’ their decisions, good and bad. That this is a pervasive issue is reflected in the Closed Meeting Report (9.1.1).
9.1.3 – Delegation to AMO.
This is strange. It seems that the Town wants to be removed from the area Planning Board (9.1.3 – by removing the Town of Parry Sound from the Parry Sound and Area Planning Board) for reasons that are not clarified in the agenda report or minutes of the meeting. This is another one of those ‘hide and seek’ approaches used by Staff and Council where the reports, if included, do not outline the reasoning and need for the recommended action.

Closed Session
b) personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees, (applications for Fence Viewers);
e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board, (Minutes of Settlement – Conseil scolaire public du Nord-Est de l’Ontario);
f) advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose, (Minutes of Settlement – Conseil scolaire public du Nord-Est de l’Ontario).

Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof
1.4.1 – Councillor Keith Declared Pecuniary Interest on item 9.1.3, as she is Chair of the Parry Sound Area Planning Board, receives remuneration, and is therefore not able to vote on a resolution which calls for delegating at the AMO Conference to remove Parry Sound from the Planning Board.
1.4.1 – Councillor Horne Declared Pecuniary Interest on item 9.1.3, as he is a member of the Planning Board, receives remuneration, and is therefore not able to vote on a resolution which calls for delegating at the AMO Conference to remove Parry Sound from the Planning Board.
Neither member participated in discussion nor voted on the matter.

Public Meeting
2.1 – Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment Z/20/03 – 9 Church Street ((Matt Ryan on behalf of Oleg Gromov) to amend C1 zone to permit a mixed use commercial and residential building.
Council held a public meeting to consider a proposed Zoning By-law amendment under Sections 34 of the Planning Act, as amended. After the Mayor adjourned the regular meeting and declared the public meeting open, the Clerk advised that notice had been given by prepaid first-class mail to the required prescribed agencies and property owners within 120 metres, posted on the property and placed on the Town’s website.

Manager of Planning & Building Services Taylor Elgie advised that the proposed Zoning By-Law amendment would amend the C1 zone to permit a mixed use commercial and residential building. Ten residential units are proposed above the main floor commercial space with the following specific exemptions included: increasing the maximum height from 10.5 metres to 18 metres; reducing the rear yard setback from 6 metres to 3 metres; providing an exemption to the cumulative residential floor area cap; requiring a minimum of ten underground parking spaces; and reducing the minimum parking space size from 3 metres by 6 metres to 2.79 metres by 6 metres.
Matt Ryan, on behalf of the owner and architect located in Italy, responded to the Mayor’s invitation to speak in favour of the proposed Zoning By-law amendment. Mr. Ryan noted that this innovative building will be built of cross laminated timber construction which is meant to be a showcase for Mr. Gromov ‘s manufacturing facility of cross laminated timber north of Parry Sound. Mr. Ryan said that he believed the development fits the Town’s Official Plan, as it focuses development within the central business district and strengthens the central business district as a prime location to live and work where services are readily available. Mr. Ryan noted that this is not new development on a green field site, but rather is re-development on a brown field site. Mr. Ryan expressed the opinion that there is a need to build higher density housing to help address effects of climate change and reduce dependence on the automobile. Projects like this are an important step in building and creating liveable, walkable communities.
Brenda Tabobondung responded to the Mayor’s invitation to speak in opposition to the proposed Zoning By-law amendment. Ms. Tabobondung said that the proposed multi- level structure will be out of character with the rest of the single-family residences in the neighbourhood. It will increase the need for parking; with more on street parking in summer and winter, it will be dangerous for sight lines if backing out of the driveway in addition to the problem of snow-banks. The size of the building will block light on the south side of her building. It will be a big building like the one on River Street, which looks out of place in relation to adjacent structures in the area.

Mr. Elgie advised that he had received the following three letters with regards to this matter.
From Al Downing, a letter of opposition citing that the proposed development would be almost doubling the height and rear yard set-backs, and he noted concerns with the location of commercial parking. Mr. Downing purchased 7 Church Street and made it into a parking lot to accommodate parking required for his apartment buildings. Mr. Downing reported that neither he nor his tenants wanted a 60′ high apartment building looking down into his apartments.
From Nikeeta Tabobondung, a letter of opposition and concerns
From Michael Reeves owner of 43 and 45 Seguin St, a letter of support

The Mayor advised that Council, at its discretion may approve the proposed Zoning By- law amendment and if so, must either circulate notice of passing of the by-law or give notice in the local press. Objections to the passing of the by-law will be received by the Clerk within 20 days from the date such notice is given, which objections will be forwarded to the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal. If an appeal is submitted and the appellant has not provided Council with an oral or written submission before the passing of the by-law, the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal may choose to dismiss the appeal.

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – In response to a question from Mayor McGarvey regarding the reporting of COVID-19 stats, Director of Development & Protective Services Dave Thompson reported that COVID-19 cases are reported within the District Health Unit of the patient’s permanent residence, therefore the number of reported cases in the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit may be lower than the actual number of cases that are currently being tended to in the area. This is standard across the province, and may be of concern, because it doesn’t give the public accurate information on what is going on in the area. If a case is in the area that is being reported through another health unit, that health unit does contact other health units to follow up with contact tracing as necessary.
Direction(?) – That staff be directed to draft for the Mayor’s signature a letter to the Premier and Deputy Premier, (who is also the Minister of Health) to express the Town’s concerns regarding the system of publishing statistics for communicable diseases including COVID-19 cases between District Health Units, and inquire as to what can be done to correct the situation.
Carried

3.2 – In response to Councillor Backman’s inquiry regarding potential grant application for Transport Canada’s Rail Safety Improvement Program for the Isabella Street crossing previously identified as unsafe in a delegation to Council, Director of Finance Stephanie Phillips noted that more research may be required as an initial look at the application criteria indicates that funding does not seem to deal with road conditions at the rail line.
Director of Public Works Mike Kearns responded with a commitment on behalf of himself and Ms. Phillips to take a closer look at the grant program to determine whether the rail crossing at Isabella Street could fit into the eligibility criteria.

3.3 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiry regarding pavement line painting, Mr. Kearns reported that Town staff looks after turn lanes, while the majority of pavement lines are completed by a third party contractor, and it is not unreasonable to expect that the job could be completed by the end of the month.

Correspondence
4.1 – Lori McDonald, Director of Corporate Services/Clerk, Town of Bracebridge. Resolution of support to lobby provincial government for financial assistance to support municipalities in offsetting the financial impact of the COVID-10 pandemic.
Resolution for consideration under item 9.5.1 on the agenda.

Deputations
None

Ratification of Matters from Closed Agenda
7.1. – Appointment of Fence Viewers.
Resolution 2020 – 059
That the following be appointed as Fence Viewers to the end of Council’s term November 30, 2022: staff members Taylor Elgie, Allison Kreuger, Forrest Pengra; and members of the public Wyatt Gray, Ray Hachigian and Lee-Ann Turner.
Carried

7.2. – Minutes of Settlement – School Board.
By-law 2020 -7051
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of Minutes of Settlement with Natalie Davis, Denis Labelle et Conseil scolaire public du nord-est de l’Ontario regarding the École élémentaire publique de Parry Sound.
Passed, Signed & Sealed.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – Closed Meeting Investigation Report 8.
That Council receives the Closed Meeting Investigation Report attached as Schedule A.
Carried

9.1.2 – Appointment of Mayor & Council Member as Shareholder Representatives to Lakeland Shareholders.
Resolution 2020 – 061
That pursuant to Section 3.7 of the Lakeland Shareholders Agreement, Council of the Town of Parry Sound appoints Mayor Jamie McGarvey, and as alternate, Councillor _____________________________ as Shareholder Representative for purposes of providing any consent or approval required by the Lakeland Shareholders Agreement or by the Business Corporations Act, for the term of Council ending November 30, 2022, or until such time as new members are appointed.
The following amendment was proposed.
That Councillor Borneman be appointed as the alternate Shareholder Representative in Mayor McGarvey’s absence.
Amendment Carried
Carried as amended

9.1.3 – Delegation to AMO.
Resolution 2020 – 062
That Council endorse the list of delegation topics at the AMO 2020 Virtual Conference per the attached report.
Carried

9.1.4 – Employee Food Drive.
Resolution 2020 – 063
That Council receive the report on the Employee Food Drive for information purposes.
Carried

9.2.1 – 2019 Annual Investment Report.
Resolution 2020 – 064
That Council accepts the 2019 Annual Investment Report attached as Schedule A, in accordance with Town’s Investment Policy.
Carried

9.2.2 – Municipal Modernization Program Project Deliverable Extension.
Resolution 2020 – 065
WHEREAS COVID-19 and Provincial Emergency Orders have impacted resources, the supply of services, and the ordinary course of businesses in general
NOW THEREFORE IT BE RESOLVED THAT the Council of The Town of Parry Sound hereby requests the Ministry of Municipal Affairs & Housing to extend the deadline for the Third-Party Reviewers Report under the Municipal Modernization Program to March 31st, 2021;
THAT Council requests that the other corresponding reporting deadlines for the Interim Progress Report and the Draft of the Independent Third-Party Reviewer’s Report also be extended, and
THAT Council authorize the CAO to retain the appropriate consulting services to expedite the process and report to Council at a future date for ratification.
The following amendment was proposed:
That the words “that the publishing of the final report be on the town’s website, and…” be inserted as new paragraph 4.
Amendment carried
The amended resolution was voted on:
Carried as amended

9.3.1 RFQ – Sewer Flushing and Cleaning.
Resolution 2020 – 066
That Council accept the quotation from Municipal Sewer Services Inc. in the amount of $30,962.00, HST included, for sewer flushing and cleaning of approximately 7,700 metres of sanitary sewer and camera inspection and georeferencing of approximately 5,800 metres of sanitary sewer, this quotation being the lowest of three (3) quotations received.
Carried

9.4.1 – Temporary Patio Permissions for Restaurants During COVID-19.
Resolution 2020 – 067
Whereas in response to COVID-19, the Province of Ontario had limited the food and drink industry;
Whereas on June 8, 2020 the Province has reduced these restrictions and is permitting new patios or temporary additions to patios to provide more opportunities to local businesses while protecting health and safety, subject to municipal requirements; and
Whereas the Council for the Town of Parry Sound recognizes the need to support local businesses while protecting human health and safety during COVID-19.
Now Therefore be it Resolved that the Council for the Town of Parry Sound supports the Province’s goal of temporarily permitting new and larger patios to assist local restaurants and other licensed establishments until January 1, 2021; and further
That provided any new or expanded patio is on the Licensee’s property, the Town’s Zoning By-law and Site Plan Agreements will not apply to the temporary patio; and further
That any fees be waived for Sidewalk Patio Program until January 1, 2021.
Carried
The following direction was proposed
Direction for staff follow-up.
That staff be directed to explore with other stakeholders including the DBA, on how the Town can support the sidewalk patio program potentially through programs such as the façade program.
Carried

9.5.1 Establish Municipal Financial Assistance Program per FMC Recommendations.
Resolution 2020 – 068
WHEREAS the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) issued a report titled “Protecting Vital Municipal Services” on April 23, 2020 which included recommendations to the federal government to provide financial assistance for municipalities across the country;
AND WHEREAS the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) recognizes that a collaborative federal-provincial effort is required to provide much needed financial assistance to municipalities and their May 14, 2020 letter (attached) to the Prime Minister and the Premier urges Canada and Ontario to extend their successful collaboration through financial support for municipalities;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Town of Parry Sound joins the Town of Bracebridge in supporting the FCM recommendation and requests that both the Federal and Provincial Governments establish a municipal financial assistance program to offset the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic;
AND FURTHER THAT the Town of Parry Sound supports the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) in lobbying the Provincial Government for financial assistance to support Municipalities in offsetting the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic;
AND FURTHER THAT this resolution be forwarded to the Honorable Steve Clark, Minister, Municipal Affairs and Housing, local Member of Parliament (MP) and local Member of the Ontario Legislature (MPP), FCM, AMO and its member municipalities, and municipalities in the Districts of Parry Sound and Muskoka.
Carried

By-laws
10.2.1 – Claw Back Percentages for 2020 Property Taxes.
By-Law 2020 – 7049
Being a By-law to Specify the “Claw-back Percentages” in Respect of Properties in the Commercial Class for 2020 Taxation Year.
Passed, Signed & Sealed.

Council Agenda Preview – 2020-06-16

14 Sunday Jun 2020

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

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Agenda, By-Law, Committees, Opinion, parry sound, PS Power, Rezoning, School, Taxes

Once again a light agenda. The Closed Session does make note of the French School e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board, (Minutes of Settlement – Conseil scolaire public du Nord-Est de l’Ontario). Perhaps there was some sort of settlement (or not). In any event the School will be opening at some point in a dedicated section of the mall based on Council’s approval of the School’s rezoning request.

Item 9.1.1 – Closed Meeting Investigation Report is worth noting. Apparently, there was a complaint filed about the Town’s Closed Session procedure for appointments to Boards & Committees. The complaint suggested that this was an item which should be discussed in Open Session. (My sense is that while there is an issue of confidentiality there is also an issue of transparency. Without an explanation of the Town’s deliberation process individuals are not able to properly understand what requirements are preferred and how they might better present their qualifications. A case could be made that the current process favours ‘insiders’ who might have ‘connections’ or non-public insights. I suggest the Town hold a workshop for all potential candidates for any committee so they might better understand the requirements and expectations of the ‘secret session’ selection committee.) FYI – I did not file the complaint. I would not consider sitting on any committee appointed by Council based on how they treated a former head of the Downtown Business Association. Rock the boat and you don’t just get tossed off, you get keel hauled. Here is a section of the report that indicates the Town is not prepared to revise its procedures. Staff likes it the way it is now. The full report is in the agenda package.

Closed Meeting Investigator Nigel Bellchamber released his report to the Clerk on June 2, 2020, and concluded “that the matter subject to this complaint deliberated at the closed session of Town Council on December 18, 2018 fell within the authority of the Municipal Act as one which could be considered in closed session and was appropriately conducted as such.
Mr. Bellchamber indicated that it has been his consistent advice over many years that it could be to the advantage of Council and open local government if candidates were publicly solicited, applications disclosed, and appointments made all in open session of Council. He offered that same advice to the Town of Parry Sound for consideration of future appointments.
It is not however the recommendation of staff to change the process at this time. Candidate submissions often include significant personal information as defined by the Ontario Information and Privacy Commissioner (e.g. work history and education) which is expected to be kept confidential. We might consider the application to sit on a board or committee more akin to a person applying for a job; discussions and decisions of which are kept confidential through the process until final selection is made. It is worth noting that the Investigator does acknowledge the two different approaches by municipalities of putting the material in open or closed meeting as both valid. A search of other Investigator Reports on the same topic consistently finds no fault with a municipality in going into closed meeting to discuss appointments to boards and committees under the reason “personal information about an identifiable individual”.”

2.1 – Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment Z/20/03 – 9 Church Street. There is no summary in the agenda package regarding this meeting beyond the title. Here is what I have found about the meeting from the Town’s website.
The applicant has requested to amend the C1 zone to permit a mixed use commercial and residential building. Ten residential units are proposed above the main floor commercial space. Specific exemptions include:
Increasing the maximum height from 10.5 metres to 18 metres;
Reducing the rear yard setback from 6 metres to 3 metres;
Provide an exemption to the cumulative residential floor area cap;
A minimum requirement of ten underground parking; and
Reduce the minimum parking space size from 3 metres by 6 metres to 2.79 metres by 6 metres.
The property’s address is 9 Church Street and is described as Lot 5 on the east side of Church Street, Plan 2. Please see the complete notice attached for additional information including a location map and appeal rights.

Public Meeting
2.1 – Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment Z/20/03 – 9 Church Street.

Correspondence
4.1 – Lori McDonald, Director of Corporate Services/Clerk, Town of Bracebridge. Resolution of support to lobby provincial government for financial assistance to support municipalities in offsetting the financial impact of the COVID-10 pandemic.

Deputations
None

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – Closed Meeting Investigation Report.
Resolution
That Council receives the Closed Meeting Investigation Report attached as Schedule A.

9.1.2 – Appointment of Mayor & Council Member as Shareholder Representatives to Lakeland Shareholders.
Resolution
That pursuant to Section 3.7 of the Lakeland Shareholders Agreement, Council of the Town of Parry Sound appoints Mayor Jamie McGarvey, and as alternate, Councillor _____________________________ as Shareholder Representative for purposes of providing any consent or approval required by the Lakeland Shareholders Agreement or by the Business Corporations Act, for the term of Council ending November 30, 2022, or until such time as new members are appointed.

9.1.3 – Delegation to AMO.
Resolution
That Council endorse the list of delegation topics at the AMO 2020 Virtual Conference per the attached report.

9.1.4 – Employee Food Drive.
Resolution
That Council receive the report on the Employee Food Drive for information purposes.

9.2.1 – 2019 Annual Investment Report.
Resolution
That Council accepts the 2019 Annual Investment Report attached as Schedule A, in accordance with Town’s Investment Policy.

9.2.2 – Municipal Modernization Program Project Deliverable Extension.
Resolution
WHEREAS COVID-19 and Provincial Emergency Orders have impacted resources, the supply of services, and the ordinary course of businesses in general NOW THEREFORE IT BE RESOLVED THAT the Council of The Town of Parry Sound hereby requests the Ministry of Municipal Affairs & Housing to extend the deadline for the Third-Party Reviewers Report under the Municipal Modernization Program to March 31st, 2021;
THAT Council requests that the other corresponding reporting deadlines for the Interim Progress Report and the Draft of the Independent Third-Party Reviewer’s Report also be extended, and
THAT Council authorize the CAO to retain the appropriate consulting services to expedite the process and report to Council at a future date for ratification.

9.3.1 – RFQ – Sewer Flushing and Cleaning.
Resolution
That Council accept the quotation from Municipal Sewer Services Inc. in the amount of $30,962.00, HST included, for sewer flushing and cleaning of approximately 7,700 metres of sanitary sewer and camera inspection and georeferencing of approximately 5,800 metres of sanitary sewer, this quotation being the lowest of three (3) quotations received.

9.4.1 – Temporary Patio Permissions for Restaurants During COVID-19.
Resolution
Whereas in response to COVID-19, the Province of Ontario had limited the food and drink industry;
Whereas on June 8, 2020 the Province has reduced these restrictions and is permitting new patios or temporary additions to patios to provide more opportunities to local businesses while protecting health and safety, subject to municipal requirements; and
Whereas the Council for the Town of Parry Sound recognizes the need to support local businesses while protecting human health and safety during COVID-19.
Now Therefore be it Resolved that the Council for the Town of Parry Sound supports the Province’s goal of temporarily permitting new and larger patios to assist local restaurants and other licensed establishments until January 1, 2021; and further
that provided any new or expanded patio is on the Licensee’s property, the Town’s Zoning By-law and Site Plan Agreements will not apply to the temporary patio; and further
That any fees be waived for Sidewalk Patio Program until January 1, 2021.

9.5.1 – Establish Municipal Financial Assistance Program per FMC Recommendations.

By-laws
10.2.1 – Claw Back Percentages for 2020 Property Taxes.
By-Law 2020 – 7049
Being a By-law to Specify the “Claw-back Percentages” in Respect of Properties in the Commercial Class for 2020 Taxation Year.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – June 2, 2020

05 Friday Jun 2020

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

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By-Law, Council Minutes, Fire Department, Parks, parry sound, Planning, PS Power, safety, Taxes, Town Council

I have no comments to offer in terms of the items discussed and the decisions taken. I was happy to see that the beaches will be opened this week, albeit unsupervised (3.2.4).

Closed Session
b) personal matter about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees; (annual performance review of Director of Finance; 6-month probationary review of Director of Public Works)
e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board, (Contractor work on Town property);
f) advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose, (Contractor work on Town property).

Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof
1.4.1 Councillor Backman declared pecuniary interest on item 9.1.1, as she receives remuneration from FONOM. Councillor Backman did not participate in discussion, nor vote on the item.

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – In response to Councillor McCann’s inquiry regarding the Firefighters’ training as instrumental in saving the Beatty building over the weekend, Fire Chief Dave Thompson reported that the Volunteer Firefighters have been working hard recently on training to fight fires in larger and more complex structures. In the past few weeks, the Firefighters responded to three fires in Parry Sound and one in McDougall which is a high number of call outs. With the COVID-19 pandemic, a lot of the practice has been on-line, which the Firefighters have embraced. With respect to the fire on Sunday morning, Chief Thompson reported on the Firefighters excellent work, noting that the fire posed risk, the firefight was very technical, and the firefighters were able to execute and stay safe, supported by McDougall Firefighters, as well as the OPP who evacuated the area, Public Works staff to manage detours, and Waterworks staff who ensured there was sufficient water available.

3.2.2 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiries, Director of Public Works Kearns reported that today staff finished work on the Salt Dock boat launch, installing a ramp and anchor system which will be used going forward with a new dock. In addition. Mr. Kearns reported that Public Works is working at re-integrating Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) into the waste management services starting June 10 and working stage by stage for full integration of all waste management services.

3.2.3 – In response to Councillor Backman’s inquiry regarding provision of waste receptacles in park areas, Mr. Kearns reported that similar to the phased-in staging of full services at the Waste Transfer Station, services at parks are being phased in, with general maintenance such as grass cutting and clean-up done first. Without the same complement of students this year, staff are looking at how to achieve a similar level of service to that usually provided.

3.2.4 In response to Councillor Borneman’s inquiry, Mr. Kearns reported that beaches are anticipated to re-open this week, in an unsupervised capacity and with appropriate signage in place.

3.2.5 – In response to Councillor McCann’s inquiry, Mr. Kearns confirmed that electronic waste is not hazardous waste and can deposited at the Waste Transfer Station’s electronic recycling section.

Correspondence
4.1. Lee-Ann Turner. Request to raise the Pride flag during Pride month of June.
Resolution prepared under Other Business for Council’s consideration.

Consent Agenda
8.1 – Support for Mayor McGarvey to sit as Past President on AMO Board of Directors.
Resolution 2020 – 051
WHEREAS the immediate past president of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) is an ex officio member on the AMO Board of Directors and AMO Executive for its next term; and
WHEREAS Mayor Jamie McGarvey is the President of AMO for the current 2018-2020 term,
Now Therefore be it resolved that Council for the Town of Parry Sound endorses and supports Mayor Jamie McGarvey’s position as Past President on the AMO Board and Executive for the 2020-2022 term.
Carried

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – COVID-19 Post-Pandemic input for growth and prosperity.
In declaring pecuniary interest, Councillor Backman did not participate in discussion nor vote on this item.
Resolution 2020 – 052
That on behalf of the Council of the Town of Parry Sound, Mayor McGarvey includes the four issues identified in this report in a letter to the President of FONOM for presentation to Minister Greg Rickford’s Advisory Council to assist with their mandate of “getting businesses up and running and people back to work after the COVID-19 pandemic is over”.
Carried

9.2.1 – Ontario Regulation 284/09 – Excluded Expenses from the 2020 Budget.
Resolution 2020 – 053
That Council hereby adopts the compliance report for expenses excluded from the 2020 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

9.2.2 – Asset Management Plan Progress and Municipal Asset Management Plan Grant Application.
Resolution 2020 – 054
Be it resolved that Council accepts the Asset Management Plan update in accordance with the Town’s Strategic Asset Management Policy and O. Reg. 588/17: Asset Management Planning for Municipal Infrastructure under the Infrastructure for Jobs and Prosperity Act, 2015; and
Be it resolved that Council directs staff to begin with the condition assessment protocols with Public Sector Digest at a cost of $16,000 (plus HST) in an effort to expedite the advancement of the asset management plan update to strive for completion by July 1st, 2021; and
Be it resolved that Council directs staff to apply for a grant from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Municipal Asset Management Program for Asset Management Program Development in Parry Sound; and
Be it therefore resolved that the Town of Parry Sound commits to conducting the following activities in its proposed project submitted to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Municipal Asset Management Program to advance our asset management program:
Risk and Lifecycle Framework Development Levels of Service Framework Development Asset Management Training; and
Be it further resolved that the Town of Parry Sound commits an additional $29,800.00 (plus HST) from its budget toward the costs of this initiative.
Carried

9.3.1 – Blue Box Transition Process
Resolution 2020 – 055
WHEREAS reducing the waste we generate and reincorporating valuable resources from our waste stream into new goods can reduce Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) significantly; and
WHEREAS the transition to full producer responsibility for packaging, paper and paper products is critical to reducing waste, improving recycling and driving better economic and environmental processes and outcomes; and
WHEREAS the move to a circular economy is a global movement, and that the transition of Blue Box programs to Full Producer Responsibility would help to expedite this process; and
WHEREAS the Town of Parry Sound is supportive of a timely, seamless and successful transition of BlueBox programs to full financial and operational responsibility by producers of packaging, paper and paper products;
AND WHEREAS the Association of Municipalities of Ontario has requested municipal governments with Blue Box programs provide an indication of the best date to transition our Blue Box program to full producer responsibility.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED AS FOLLOWS:
1. That The Town of Parry Sound confirms its wish to transition its Blue Box program to full producer responsibility effective January 2023.
2. That this decision is based on the following rationale:
a) The current waste collection contract, which includes the collection and processing of blue box material expires December 31, 2020 and has been subject to an annual renewal.
b) The Town of Parry Sound is not currently in a position to execute a long term agreement for Blue Box services in the face of this transition; and
3. That this resolution be forwarded to the Association of Municipalities of Ontario and the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks.
Carried

9.5.1 – Support for Mayor McGarvey’s nomination to a seat on OSUM Board of Directors.
Resolution 2020 – 056
That Council for the Town of Parry Sound endorses and supports Mayor Jamie McGarvey’s nomination submission to a seat on the Ontario Small Urban Municipalities (OSUM) Board of Directors for the 2020-2022 term.
Carried

9.6.1 – Request to fly Pride flag for month of June, 2020.
Resolution 2020 – 057
That Council for the Town of Parry Sound approves the flying of the PRIDE flag on the Town Hall municipal flag pole for the month of June, 2020.
Carried

By-laws
10.2.1 – Striking tax rates for fiscal year 2020.
By-law 2020 – 7044
Being a bylaw to Strike the Tax Rates for Municipal Purposes for the Year 2020
Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.2.2 – Business Improvement Area (BIA) Levy By-law – Downtown Business Area.
By-law 2020 – 7045
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 2020.
Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.3.1 – Solar Field Former Landfill – Memorandum of Understanding – 2020.
By-law 2020 – 7047
Being a by-law to authorize the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding with Bracebridge Generation and Lakeland Holdings Ltd. for the construction of a solar field to offset electrical usage of the Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.4.1 – Deeming By-law – Wehling – 70 Great North Road.
By-law 2020 – 7046
Being a By-law to Deem Certain Lots in the Town of Parry Sound not to be Part of a Registered Plan of Subdivision (Wehling – 70 Great North Road).
Passed, Signed and Sealed.

Council Agenda Preview – June 2, 2020

31 Sunday May 2020

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

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Agenda, budget, By-Law, Infrastructure, parry sound, PS Power, Rezoning, Taxes, Town Council

There is nothing in the agenda deserving particular comment or analysis. I am a little confused by 9.3.1 Blue Box Transition Process, and don’t understand the eventual outcome that is expected. The solar development at the former landfill site is moving forward – 10.3.1 – Solar Field Former Landfill – Memorandum of Understanding – 2020. There is no listed correspondence or deputations.

Closed Session
That pursuant to Section 239(2) of the Municipal Act, R.S.O. 2001, Chapter 25, as amended, the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound move to a meeting closed to the public in order to address matters pertaining to:
b) personal matter about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees; (annual performance review of Director of Finance; 6-month probationary review of Director of Public Works)
e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board, (Contractor work on Town property);
f) advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose, (Contractor work on Town property).

Consent Agenda
WHEREAS the immediate past president of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) is an ex officio member on the AMO Board of Directors and AMO Executive for its next term; and
WHEREAS Mayor Jamie McGarvey is the President of AMO for the current 2018-2020 term,
Now Therefore be it resolved that Council for the Town of Parry Sound endorses and supports Mayor Jamie McGarvey’s position as Past President on the AMO Board and Executive for the 2020-2022 term.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – COVID-19 Post-Pandemic input for growth and prosperity.
Resolution
That on behalf of the Council of the Town of Parry Sound, Mayor McGarvey includes the four issues identified in this report in a letter to the President of FONOM for presentation to Minister Greg Rickford’s Advisory Council to assist with their mandate of “getting businesses up and running and people back to work after the COVID-19 pandemic is over”.

9.2.1 – Ontario Regulation 284/09 – Excluded Expenses from the 2020 Budget.
Resolution 2020
That Council hereby adopts the compliance report for expenses excluded from the 2020 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

9.2.2 – Asset Management Plan Progress and Municipal Asset Management Plan Grant Application.
Resolution
Be it resolved that Council accepts the Asset Management Plan update in accordance with the Town’s Strategic Asset Management Policy and O. Reg. 588/17: Asset Management Planning for Municipal Infrastructure under the Infrastructure for Jobs and Prosperity Act, 2015; and
Be it resolved that Council directs staff to begin with the condition assessment protocols with Public Sector Digest at a cost of $16,000 (plus HST) in an effort to expedite the advancement of the asset management plan update to strive for completion by July 1st, 2021; and
Be it resolved that Council directs staff to apply for a grant from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Municipal Asset Management Program for Asset Management Program Development in Parry Sound; and
Be it therefore resolved that the Town of Parry Sound commits to conducting the following activities in its proposed project submitted to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Municipal Asset Management Program to advance our asset management program:
Risk and Lifecycle Framework Development Levels of Service Framework Development Asset Management Training; and
Be it further resolved that the Town of Parry Sound commits an additional $29,800.00 (plus HST) from its budget toward the costs of this initiative.

9.3.1 Blue Box Transition Process.
Resolution
WHEREAS reducing the waste we generate and reincorporating valuable resources from our waste stream into new goods can reduce Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) significantly; and
WHEREAS the transition to full producer responsibility for packaging, paper and paper products is critical to reducing waste, improving recycling and driving better economic and environmental processes and outcomes; and
WHEREAS the move to a circular economy is a global movement, and that the transition of Blue Box programs to Full Producer Responsibility would help to expedite this process; and
WHEREAS the Town of Parry Sound is supportive of a timely, seamless and successful transition of BlueBox programs to full financial and operational responsibility by producers of packaging, paper and paper products;
AND WHEREAS the Association of Municipalities of Ontario has requested municipal governments with Blue Box programs provide an indication of the best date to transition our Blue Box program to full producer responsibility.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED AS FOLLOWS:
1. That The Town of Parry Sound confirms its wish to transition its Blue Box program to full producer responsibility effective January 2023.
2. That this decision is based on the following rationale:
a) The current waste collection contract, which includes the collection and processing of blue box material expires December 31, 2020 and has been subject to an annual renewal.
b) The Town of Parry Sound is not currently in a position to execute a long term agreement for Blue Box services in the face of this transition; and
3. That this resolution be forwarded to the Association of Municipalities of Ontario and the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks.

9.5.1 – Support for Mayor McGarvey’s nomination to a seat on OSUM Board of Directors.
Resolution
That Council for the Town of Parry Sound endorses and supports Mayor Jamie McGarvey’s nomination submission to a seat on the Ontario Small Urban Municipalities (OSUM) Board of Directors for the 2020-2022 term.

By-laws
10.2.1 – Striking tax rates for fiscal year 2020.
By-law 2020 – 7044
Being a bylaw to Strike the Tax Rates for Municipal Purposes for the Year 2020.

10.4.1 – Deeming By-law – Wehling – 70 Great North Road.
By-law 2020 – 7046
Being a By-law to Deem Certain Lots in the Town of Parry Sound not to be Part of a Registered Plan of Subdivision (Wehling – 70 Great North Road)

Council Agenda Preview – May 19, 2020

15 Friday May 2020

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

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Agenda, BOCC, budget, By-Law, economic development, parry sound, Planning, Pool, Taxes, TOPS Financial Analysis, Tower Hill, Town Council

This week sees good news and not so good news. On the positive side the gardens, parks and boat launches are proposed for reopening. On the not so good side it seems that the Festival of the Sound will not be having a summer season in Parry Sound with the continued closure of the Stockey Centre and Bobby Orr Community Centre until at least September. (9.1.1, 9.1.2, 9.3.1) I don’t see any mention of Big Sound Marina, explicitly or implicitly.

There are a couple of economic impact and recovery plans that are to be reviewed (9.2.1, 9.4.1).

10.4.1 – Subdivision Amending Agreement – W.E.H. Developments Limited. This concerns extending certain deadlines for three years with respect to the development of the Thunder Creek development.

Closed Session
(c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board, (request for rights-of-way over municipal property & potential property sale);
(d) labour relations or employee negotiations, (CUPE labour relations during COVID)

Correspondence
4.1 – Brian Beal, Director of Education, Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Bd. Access to OPEN Guest Hot Spot network at school parking lots.

4.2 – Craig Jeffery, Clerk, Seguin Township. Resolution 2020-124 requesting publication of Parry Sound District specific stats on COVID-19.

4.3 – Tammy Wylie, Clerk, McKellar Township. Resolution 20-130 requesting publication of Parry Sound District specific stats on COVID-19.
Resolution 20-125 recommending postponement of public meetings to allow time to consider affordability regarding the WPS Wellness & Aquatic Centre.

4.4 – Maryann Weaver, Clerk, Township of the Archipelago. Resolution 20-049 requesting publication of Parry Sound District specific stats on COVID-19.
Resolution 20-050 re: provincial funding of NBPSDHU.

4.5 – Judith Meyntz, Deputy Clerk, Municipality of Whitestone. Resolution 2020-106 requesting publication of Parry Sound District specific stats on COVID-19.
Resolution 2020-107 re: provincial funding of NBPSDHU

4.6 – Mackenzie Taylor, Deputy Clerk, Township of Carling. Resolution 2020-046 requesting publication of Parry Sound District specific stats on COVID-19.

4.7 – Ernie Hardeman, Minister of Agriculture, Food & Rural Affairs. Amendment to Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act to permit use of allotment and community gardens under certain conditions.

4.8 – Marianne King-Wilson. Request to keep chimney at 88 Church Street (former St. Joseph’s Hospital) intact as chimney swifts bird habitat.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – Municipal Boat Launches and Community Gardens.
Resolution.
That Council of the Corporation Town of Parry Sound ratifies the administrative actions taken to permit the use of community gardens and the reopening of the Town’s boat launches.

9.1.2 – Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts & Bobby Orr Hall of Fame reopening plan.
Resolution.
WHEREAS the Province of Ontario declared an emergency that applies to the whole Province of Ontario pursuant to section 7.0.1 of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (the Act);
AND WHEREAS the Province has issued various Orders under the Act (by Regulation) imposing measures to slow the spread of an infectious disease (COVID-19);
AND WHEREAS the above-mentioned measures include regulations restricting the gatherings of persons, imposing “social or physical distance measures”, affecting the closures of places of businesses, etc.;
AND WHEREAS Council has determined that it is in the interest of public health and safety (the “public interest”) to control and restrict access to places and/or buildings that accommodate large gatherings of persons;
Now therefore Be It Resolved:
That it is in the public interest that the Charles W. Stockey Centre Performance Hall remain closed to rentals until and including September 7, 2020.

9.1.3 – West Parry Sound Economic Development Collaborative (CIINO Funding Program)
Resolution
That on behalf of the Council of the Town of Parry Sound, the Mayor submit a letter of support of the West Parry Sound Economic Development Collaborative for the purpose of the FedNor Community Investment Initiative of Northern Ontario (CIINO) funding application.

9.2.1 – COVID-19 Financial Report.

9.3.1 – Parks & Recreation Facilities, Program & Events: Looking Forward.
Resolution.
That Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound align opening dates of parks, events, programs and recreation facilities based on provincial orders and established guidelines and available resources such as Personal Protective Equipment; and
That in the public interest, the Bobby Orr Community Centre not be available to rent for concerts and performances until and including September 7, 2020.

9.4.1 – Parry Sound COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan.
Resolution.
That the Parry Sound COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan attached as Schedule A be approved as presented.

By-laws
10.4.1 – Subdivision Amending Agreement – W.E.H. Developments Limited.
By-Law 2020 – 7042.
Being a By-law to authorize a Subdivision Amending Agreement with W.E.H. Developments Limited.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – March 17, 2020

10 Friday Apr 2020

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Airport, By-Law, Parking, PS Power, Rezoning, Smoking, Stockey Centre, Taxes, Town Council, Water Management

Oops – I just found this post in my drafts – I guess I prepared it and forgot to push send.

Move along, there is little to read here. Things unfolded as expected with no significant implications.

Closed Session
c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land for municipal or local board purposes; (potential acquisition of property for municipal purposes)

e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board (potential claims regarding issues on private property);

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – In response to a question from Councillor McCann regarding what steps the public should take when trees blow down in storms, Chief Dave Thompson stated that with regards to incidents affecting the municipality or public safety, residents are encouraged to call 911. This gets the Fire Dept out to the site to secure it and get in the proper resources to remedy the situation which may be for example the Town’s Public Works, or the electrical utility Lakeland.

3.2.2. – In response to Councillors Horne and Keith’s inquiries regarding the potential for offering a grace period or waiving of penalty for late payment of taxes and water and sewer bills by taxpayers and residents having difficulty paying these bills as a result of economic hardship from the COVID-19 shut-down, Director of Finance Stephanie Phillips and CAO Clayton Harris responded that this issue is under consideration and would come back to Council for a decision.

Correspondence
4.1 – Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs & Housing.
Provincial Policy Statement, 2020.
Action – Circulated to Mayor & Council and filed.

4.2 – Kami Johnson, Administrator, Belvedere Heights.
2020 levy.
Action – Circulated to Mayor & Council, and Director of Finance for follow-up.

4.3 – Frank Fernandez, Stop the Great Lakes Nuclear Dump.
OPG’s plan to build a nuclear waste repository in Kincardine abandoned.
Action – Circulated to Mayor & Council and filed.

4.4.a – North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit.
Health Unit Preparing for COVID-19.
Action – Filed.

4.4b – Ministry of Health.
Province Implementing Enhanced Measures to Protect Ontarians from COVID-19.
Action – Filed.

4.5 – Chris Litschko, Chief Executive Officer, Lakeland Holding Ltd.
Request for letter of support for CRTC application for rural area high speed internet.
Action – Circulated to Mayor & Council with supporting resolution prepared for consideration.

Deputations
5.1 – Leslie Mapstone – withdrawn.
Film Festival June 4-6, 2020.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – 2019 Statement of Remuneration Paid to Council and Appointed Board Members.
Resolution. That the 2019 Statement of Remuneration Paid to Council and Appointed Board Members, attached as Schedule “A”, be accepted.
Carried.

9.2.1 – 2019 Water System Summary Report.
Resolution 2020. Whereas the Town of Parry Sound owns and operates the Parry Sound Drinking Water System (M.O.E. Designation Number 2200000585) which has been categorized as a “Large Residential” Drinking Water System, and
Whereas Ontario Regulation 170-03 (as amended) under the Safe Drinking Water Act requires, according to “Schedule 22 Summary Reports for Municipalities” that all large Municipal Residential Drinking water systems have a report prepared no later than March 31st of each year addressing the items detailed in the Regulation and is given to the members of Council in the case of a drinking water system owned by a municipality;
Therefore, be it resolved that Council of the Town of Parry Sound hereby acknowledges receipt of the report titled: “Town of Parry Sound Tony Agnello Water Treatment Plant, Large Municipal Residential Drinking Water System Summary Report 2019”, as prepared by Kyle Hall, Manager of Water Systems.
Carried

9.3.1 – Consent Application – B/03/2020 (PS) – Kondwani Corporation.
Resolution. That a decision on Consent Application No. B/03/2020 (PS) (Kondwani Corporation / 58 Emily Street) be supported, subject to conditions of consent that require:
The payment of cash-in-lieu of parkland;
The retained lands be rezoned to recognize the lands do not have frontage and access onto a year-round maintained road, and also that a holding symbol be applied which requires the submission of Record of Site Condition and the evaluation of the landfill site prior to any sensitive use; and
The submission of an environmental impact study supporting the proposed consent application.
Carried

9.4.1 – Canada Arts Presentation Fund (CAPF) Grant Application 2021-2024.
Resolution. THAT Council authorizes that application be made to the Canada Arts Presentation Fund (CAPF) for the 2021-2024 Stockey Centre programming season; and
THAT the CAO, Clayton Harris be authorized to execute the application and other relevant documents.
Carried

9.4.2 – Grant Funding Opportunity Parry Sound Area Municipal Airport.
Resolution. WHEREAS on the 21st day of August, 2000 The Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound and The Corporation of the Township of Seguin entered into an Agreement for the operation, control and management of the Parry Sound Area Municipal Airport;
AND WHEREAS The Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound and The Corporation of the Township of Seguin hold title to the Airport lands;
AND WHEREAS the Parry Sound Area Municipal Airport Commission has prepared applications to FedNor and the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) for funding for a Runway and Airside Business Development Project;
AND WHEREAS the Town of Parry Sound and the Township of Seguin as contributing funding partners to the Parry Sound Area Municipal Airport, in the event there are cost overruns for this project, the Town of Parry Sound (20%) and the Township of Seguin (80%) are obligated to provide financial assistance to the Parry Sound Area Municipal Airport Commission as required;
THEFEFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, as owners of the Parry Sound Area Municipal Airport lands, the Council of The Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound does hereby support the applications for funding from FedNor and the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) for capital improvements at the Airport (Runway and Airside Business Development Project);
AND THAT the Township of Seguin will provide cash flow assistance to the Parry Sound Area Municipal Airport Commission as required for the municipal portion, in the form of a long-term repayable loan of a maximum of 2.5 million, with specific terms of repayment to be determined at a later date;
AND THAT Council approves the Township of Seguin to act as the lead Applicant for the above referenced Project;
AND THAT the Township of Seguin, as lead applicant will establish appropriate measures, project oversight, including status updates to minimize the risk of cost overruns.
Carried

9.5.1 – Lakeland Holding Ltd.
Resolution. Whereas Parry Sound is a significant community in its location on the shores of Georgian Bay running up the Highway 400 North corridor; and
Whereas there are many looking to relocate their permanent and/or seasonal residence and business to this area; and
Whereas providing a quality internet service product to the more underserviced areas of Parry Sound District will make this area that much more attractive to businesses and potential residents alike;
Now Therefore the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound hereby supports the application by Lakeland Networks to the CRTC Rural Broadband funding initiative to bring quality, cost-effective high-speed internet to our Town and surrounding areas.
Carried

9.5.2 – COVID-19 Ratification of Administrative Actions and Authority Delegation.
Resolution. Whereas the World Health Organization has declared the Coronavirus (COVID-19) as a pandemic; and
Whereas the Province of Ontario has declared a state of emergency today amid the COVID-19 pandemic; and
Whereas federal, provincial and municipal responses to best practice advice on limiting gatherings and social contact, has been to limit access, including close programs, facilities, and offices; and
Whereas the situation is very dynamic and evolving quickly, often requiring immediate action;
Now Therefore, Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound ratifies the administrative actions taken to close municipal facilities and programs effective March 16th, 2020 until further notice including the Bobby Orr Community Centre, the Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts, the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame, the Parry Sound Public Library and further;
That the Chief Administrative Officer in consultation with the Mayor and the Community Emergency Management Coordinator (CEMC), is delegated decision-making authority to close municipal facilities, adjust service levels, cancel programs and/or Council meetings; and/or re-instate as the situation evolves; and That the Chief Administrative Officer inform Council at the earliest opportunity.
Carried

By-laws
10.1.1 – MPAC Lease Agreement – Extension.
By-law 2020 – 7022. Being a By-Law to authorize extension of lease agreement with the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) for office space from November 1, 2020 to October 31, 2025.
Passed, Signed and Sealed

10.3.1 – Amendment to Parking and Traffic Control By-law 2019-6912 for the Town of Parry Sound.
By-law 2020 – 7023
Being a By-law to amend the Parking and Traffic Control By-law 2019-6912.
Passed, Signed and Sealed

10.3.2 – Updated agreements with Chris Everitt, Earl Smallwood and Gary Kloetstra for on call after hours Municipal Law Enforcement services.
By-law: 2020 – 7024
Being a by-law to enter into an agreement with Chris Everitt, Earl Smallwood and Gary Kloetstra for the provision of on call after hours Municipal Law Enforcement services.
Passed, Signed and Sealed

10.3.3 – New Smoking By-law for the Town of Parry Sound.
By-law 2020 – 7025
Being a By-law to Prohibit Smoking on Town of Parry Sound Property.
Passed, Signed and Sealed
Direction for staff follow-up
That staff investigate and report back to Council on what is possible to control smoking on sidewalks in the downtown area.
Carried

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – 2020-04-07

10 Friday Apr 2020

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

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By-Law, Council Minutes, COVID-19, Parks, parry sound, Rezoning, safety, Taxes, Town Council, Water Management

There are a couple of things worth noting in the minutes.

9.4.1 – Municipal Boat Launches.
The boat launches are closed for the foreseeable future in response to COVID-19. I’m not really sure I understand the logic for it. There may be a couple of reasons:
– the authorities genuinely feel that people will congregate at boat launches and that may be a disease vector. That of course could be handled as simply as enforcing some sort of spacing of launches and retrievals.
– more reasonably, and not probably expressed directly, is the desire to keep people from the more populated areas which have a higher incidence of COVID-19 from infecting relatively isolated populations with limited cases and fewer medical resources (that’s us).
I wonder if the OPP will be patrolling the waters. I don’t believe that you are restricted from boating, you just can’t use public launches. Marinas are also restricted on the use of their facilities for boat launching. If you have waterfront property, you may be in luck. I know that permanent residents who require water access are exempted from this (you need to get home). I don’t really know what the status is for seasonal residents. I suspect they are out of luck. The fines are big enough that no marina wants to get caught supporting non permitted boating activities. In of itself boating isn’t really a major contributor to the spread of COVID-19, it’s the movement of people north that is doubtless the concern.

10.4.1 – Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/20/01 – Additional Unit Amendment (Town of Parry Sound).
This By-law was subject to a request for a recorded vote and was passed 6 to 1.

One thought I have about all of this is that the significant costs being incurred at the senior government level probably means that any dreams of a municipal recreation centre or additional internet access funding for neighbouring municipalities is probably pushed back a couple of years. I hope I’m wrong but COVID-19 will seriously damage the finances of both the private and public sectors for years to come.

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – In response to Councillor McCann’s inquiry regarding the legality of use of marinas and boat launches during the declared state of emergency due to the COVID- 19 pandemic, Chief Dave Thompson reported that the overriding legislation is the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act under which a number of Orders have been issued; e.g. not congregating in groups of more than 5 people; only essential services being open. Chief Thompson noted that enforcement of orders is the responsibility of the OPP and has also been delegated to Municipal By-law Enforcement Officers with the latter using short form wording fines to issue fines, ranging from $750 to $1000. More serious fines, such as businesses staying open in contravention of the Orders can run up to $100,000. Chief Thompson suggested that it was his understanding the OPP’s enforcement would focus on educating the public to limit the number of people to 5.

3.2.2 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiry, Director of Public Works Mike Kearns reported that the gravel and sand gathered by the street sweeper is transported to the transfer station facility and used for on-site uses related to the transfer station and landfill site. With respect to the snow plows, they are kept staged, ready for service in event the winter season is extended.

3.2.3 – In response to Councillor Burden’s inquiry regarding the proliferation of dead or dying red pines at Tower Hill and the potential for a forest fire there, Director of Public Works Mike Kearns reported that after viewing the area, he agrees with that assessment. Mr. Kearns reported that he has identified the property owner where the majority of dead and dying trees are located and will approach that property owner to come up with a plan.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.4.1 – Municipal Boat Launches.
Resolution.
That Council support the recommendation of staff to limit non-essential boat travel during the COVID-19 pandemic, and advises the public that effective immediately, the Salt Dock, Waubuno Beach, Champaign St and Mill Lake boat launches will be closed until further notice.
Carried

9.5.1 – Request for COVID-19 Confirmed Cases Statistics in West Parry Sound.
Resolution.
Whereas in order to fight the COVID-19 virus in your community it is important to understand the status of confirmed cases in that community; and
Whereas the catchment area for the West Parry Sound Health Centre is only a portion of the area served by North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit;
Now therefore be it resolved that the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit publish statistics that provide the number of confirmed cases and other appropriate information for West Parry Sound and
Further That this resolution be sent to: municipalities in the West Parry Sound Area; the West Parry Sound Health Centre; the Honourable Minister Christine Elliott, Minister of Health; and MPP Norm Miller.
Carried

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

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

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

10.2.3 – Approval of Funding Agreement – Provincial Gas Tax.
By-law 2020 – 7033
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of a Letter of Agreement with the Ontario Minister of Transportation regarding funding under the Dedicated Gas Tax Funds for Public Transportation Program.
PASSED, SIGNED & SEALED

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

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

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

Council Agenda Preview – April 7, 2020

03 Friday Apr 2020

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

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Agenda, By-Law, parry sound, Planning, Rezoning, Taxes, Town Council, Water Management

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

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

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

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

Correspondence
None

Deputations
None

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.5.1 – Request for COVID-19 Confirmed Cases Statistics in West Parry Sound.
Resolution
Whereas in order to fight the COVID-19 virus in your community it is important to understand the status of confirmed cases in that community; and
Whereas the catchment area for the West Parry Sound Health Centre is only a portion of the area served by North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit;
Now therefore be it resolved that the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit publish statistics that provide the number of confirmed cases and other appropriate information for West Parry Sound and
Further That this resolution be sent to: municipalities in the West Parry Sound Area; the West Parry Sound Health Centre; the Honourable Minister Christine Elliott, Minister of Health; and MPP Norm Miller.

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

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

10.2.3 – Approval of Funding Agreement – Provincial Gas Tax.
By-law 2020 – 7033.
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of a Letter of Agreement with the Ontario Minister of Transportation regarding funding under the Dedicated Gas Tax Funds for Public Transportation Program.

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

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

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

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – 2020-03-18

21 Saturday Mar 2020

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

≈ Comments Off on Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – 2020-03-18

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budget, By-Law, Council Minutes, parry sound, Taxes, Town Council, Water Management

It seems that the 2020 Town of Parry Sound budget was approved last Wednesday night with the addition of a few more items. I’m not sure how this impacts the overall tax rates as some of the added expenses don’t seem trivial although some are covered under Water and Wastewater expenses that are budgeted separately.

I’m a bit confused by these minutes and I’m not sure it’s worth investing any time investigating any further.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – 2020 Operating and Capital Budget
Staff Recommendation for Council’s Approval
That the amount of $60,000 in the 2020 budget to facilitate the work necessary to improve drainage and properly assess the condition of the culverts under Parry Sound Drive in the vicinity of Smith Crescent be approved and funding for the culvert lining project at $150,000 be approved so the project can proceed if conditions allow for completion of the works.
Carried

Staff Recommendation for Council’s Approval
That Council approve paving the operations yard, including the road section through to the transfer station in the 2020 budget for $130,000.
Carried

Staff Recommendation for Council’s Approval
That the budget of $40,000 towards SPS#5 be revised to $20,000 funded from the Wastewater Stabilization Reserve.
Carried

Staff Recommendation for Council’s Approval
Staff recommend $1.25 million in the capital budget allocation for 2020 to begin the process of completing the necessary upgrades to SPS#6.
Carried

Staff Recommendation for Council’s Approval
Continue with the equipment replacement of these mowers as planned in the Town’s 20-year equipment replacement forecast. The mowers are funded from the equipment replacement reserve. The Town currently contributes $165,594 yearly to this reserve to fund the replacement of equipment that is currently operational.
Future replacement of equipment at Hillcrest will be referred to as replacement of the “Cemetery” equipment to remove the connotation that it to be used solely at that location.
Carried

Staff Recommendation for Council’s Approval
That Council replace the aged furnace(s) at the CP Station on Avenue Road with one energy efficient model at a cost not to exceed $27,500. The furnace replacement will be tendered to get the best pricing.
Carried

Staff Recommendation for Council’s Approval
The recommended salt dock boat dock replacement includes a commercial dock designed not to protrude past the main dock. Three-ton anchors will secure the dock similar to the installation at the Champagne Street docks.
The future dock replacement plan includes a similar dock replacement at the Waubuno Beach location followed by the Shoppers dock at the Town Dock.
Carried

Staff Recommendation for Council’s Approval
That the entire garbage can replacement be funded by transferring the amount needed from the tax rate stabilization reserve.
Carried

Staff Recommendation for Council’s Approval
Staff recommend approving the project with funding for the additional $25,500 expenditure for a solar powered crosswalk at the intersection of Waubeek St./Belvedere Ave./Avenue Rd. to be included in the larger project debenture.
Carried

Resolution 2020 – 028
WHEREAS aging storm water infrastructure combined with increasing extreme weather events has increased the need for storm water capital replacement and maintenance,
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Council approve the creation of a Storm Water Management Reserve in the amount of $100,000 to be transferred from the Winter Control Reserve for the purpose of storm water capital replacement and maintenance requirements.
Carried

Resolution 2020 – 029
WHEREAS the Town has submitted an Expression of Interest for additional third-party review funding,
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the unspent municipal modernization funding received in 2019 be transferred to a newly established Modernization Reserve for the purpose of funding projects that create efficiencies that lower and/or avoid future costs.
Carried

Resolution
That Council receives the storm drainage information on Georgian Bay Avenue provided by Director of Public Works Mike Kearns.
Carried

Resolution 2020 – 030
That the 2020 Operating and Capital Budget as amended, be approved; and
That the Budget By-law be brought forward for ratification following adoption of this resolution.
Carried

By-laws
10.1.1 – 2020 Budget.
By-law 2020 – 7028
Being a By-law to adopt the Operating and Capital budget estimates for the year 2020.
Passed, Signed and Sealed.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – February 4, 2020

10 Monday Feb 2020

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

≈ 2 Comments

Tags

BOCC, budget, By-Law, Council Minutes, DBA, Museum, parry sound, Planning, Rezoning, School, Strategic Plan, Taxes, Town Council

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

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

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

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

Mr. Simon Fecteau, Director of Education for the Conseil scolaire public du Nord-Est de l’Ontario responded to the Mayor’s invitation to speak in favour of the proposed Zoning By-law amendment. Mr. Fecteau noted that the request for a French Public School came through two years ago from parents in the Parry Sound community. Currently there are about 40 registered students from J-K to Grade 7, and 8 full-time staff members at the temporary accommodations located at Canadore College. Mr. Fecteau noted that the number of students is anticipated to grow in the coming years and that until a permanent solution is provided by the Ministry of Education, the Board is looking at other temporary accommodations. Mr. Fecteau reported that the Board believes the southwest section of Parry Sound Mall where Harvest Church has been located is suitable, with separate girls’ and boys’ washrooms, and at 9,000 square feet has sufficient space to support 5 classrooms, a small gym, and office and administrative space. The school will have its own separate entrance at the back with a fenced-in play area outside also at the back.
Mr. Fecteau noted that the Board has submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Education for funds to build a more permanent location in the future, and that they are looking at the Mall option for 2-3 years, signing a 3-year lease with the possibility of shortening it. Mr. Fecteau said that the Board has heard that some members of the community may be concerned with students at the mall, but he reiterated that there the school section has a separate entrance door; there is a locked door that exits into the mall used for emergency evacuation only.
No one spoke in opposition to the proposed Zoning By-law amendment. Mr. Elgie advised that he had received no correspondence with regards to this matter.

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiry regarding snow clearing, Public Works Director Mike Kearns reported that as he has just started in his new position, he expects that the snow removal is status quo; he has made general inquiries as to how things are prioritized and the process used regarding snow removal and he’ll be looking at what works best.
3.2.2 – In response to Councillor McCann’s inquiry regarding what one does to get additional street lighting in an area such as Queen Street where when one of the street- lights burns out, it is quite dark, Mr. Kearns reported that he would start by looking at what is available, and whether there are alternative ways to illuminate the area. Depending upon what in-ground infrastructure is available and whether there are agreements with utility owners to use the poles, Mr. Kearns noted that a single streetlight can result in a lot of work and expense.
3.2.3 – In response to Councillor Backman’s inquiry regarding an upcoming Film Festival at the Stockey Centre, Marketing Coordinator Kelsey Norris reported that Stockey Centre staff is working with Leslie Mapstone of Mapstone Media to put together a 3-day Film Festival, seeking submissions throughout Canada and internationally. While the process is in early development, the Stockey Centre has put out information to “save the date” and will follow-up with more information as it becomes available.
3.2.4 – In response to Councillor Backman’s inquiry as to whether the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame (BOHF) Gift Shop renovation has had an impact on sales, BOHF Curator Caitlin Dyer reported that as the renovation was done in 2019, it is difficult to determine the impact without a full year cycle to compare to. Ms. Dyer suggested that a review done after the completion of 2020 sales would provide a better measure of comparison of one full year after the renovation. Ms. Dyer did note that there have been many positive comments from the community and returning patrons on how much more inviting the space is.

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

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

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

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

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