Tag Archives: Taxes

Council Agenda Preview – March 2, 2021

26 Friday Feb 2021

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There are a couple of items on the agenda that deserve more review and comment than I can do here:
9.1.1 – Budget Overview.
9.2.1 – Municipal Modernization Program – Intake 1 – Technology Review Final Report. Municipal Modernization Program – Intake 2 – Introduction.

I will see if I can get around to these two documents this weekend, which are in the council meeting agenda package and available at the Town’s website. If I do, I will prepare a separate post. Item 9.1.1 is the first look we are being given of the 2021 Town budget. I do like the idea that Capital and External expenses are being discussed separately from Operating and Community budget items. I imagine the meetings wil lbe broadcast live and then available for later review on the web.
No wait – the budget overview presentation is just a tease in terms of real numbers. But there is a schedule of meetings:
March 9, 2021 – Budget Review Meeting (Capital & External Levies) *Special Meeting
March 23, 2021 – Budget Review Meeting (Operating & Community Requests/Grants) *Special Meeting
April 6, 2021 (Council) – Budget Approval and By-law

Abridged Agenda

Correspondence
None

Deputations
5.1 – Anne Haines, Account Manager, Muskoka, Parry Sound, MPAC.
2020 Municipal Partnership Report.

5.2 – Christy Cafovski, Executive Director, Gail Burrows, President, Parry Sound Area Chamber of Commerce.
Chamber of Commerce Year in Review; New Strategic Plan.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – Budget Overview.
See attached Presentation.

9.2.1 – Municipal Modernization Program – Intake 1 – Technology Review Final Report.
Municipal Modernization Program – Intake 2 – Introduction.
Resolution
THAT Council receives the attached Report on Municipal Modernization Program – Intake 1 – Technology Review Final Report; and
THAT Council authorize staff to submit an Expression of Interest for a GIS Maturity Assessment under the Municipal Modernization Program – Intake 2.

9.2.2 Modernization Review – Allocation of Funding.
Resolution
Whereas the Town of Parry Sound received Municipal Modernization Funding from the Province of Ontario in 2019;
Whereas Council placed uncommitted Modernization Funding into a Modernization Reserve in March 2020;
Whereas the purpose of the Reserve is to fund projects that create efficiencies, lower and/or avoid future costs;
Whereas the effective use of technology represents a significant opportunity for creating efficiencies;
Whereas the Town initiated a Technology Review in 2020 under Intake 1, to identify opportunities for internal efficiencies using technology including infrastructure, business processes and systems;
Whereas the Review, completed under Intake 1 identified several important corporate projects;
Whereas the Town wishes to apply for Provincial funding under Intake 2;
Whereas one of the eligibility requirements for Intake 2 is that the municipality confirm that it has spent or allocated the Modernization Funding received in 2019;
Now Therefore be it Resolved That the uncommitted funds in the Modernization Reserve, $595,414.47 be allocated to initiatives identified in the Technology Review including a small contingency; and
Further That staff report back to Council for budget approvals should there be a need to reallocate funds as additional information becomes available, such as: changes in project scope; a need to change priorities; new priorities; etc.

9.3.1 – Regional Fire Training Centre in the Parry Sound Area.
Resolution
That the Council for the Town of Parry Sound support the submission of a formal request to the Office of the Fire Marshall to consider Parry Sound to be a Regional Training Centre.

9.3.2 – Respond to request to stop-up-and close a portion of Macklaim Drive and Dennis Drive by Macazer Holding Corp.
Resolution
That Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound deny the request from Macazer Holding Corporation to stop-up-and-close a portion of Macklaim Drive and Dennis Drive road allowance.

9.5.1 – Letter of Support for NNDSB Grant Application for Bike Purchases.
Resolution
THAT Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound approves submission of the letter attached as Schedule A to the Near North District School Board in support of its application to the Ontario Active School Travel Fund to purchase a fleet of bikes for the purpose of training students in Grades 7 and 8 on safe cycling.

By-laws
10.1.1 – Tax Policies – Capping and New to Class/New Construction.
By-Law 2021 – 7108
Being a bylaw to specify Tax Policies, including the claw back percentage, the capping threshold parameters, the minimum tax level for new-to-class / new construction and to exclude certain properties from the capping program for the year 2021.

10.1.2 – Tax Ratios for 2021.
By-Law 2021 – 7109
Being a by-law to set Tax Ratios for Municipal purposes for the year 2021.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – February 16, 2021

21 Sunday Feb 2021

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Thankfully the COVID-19 lockdown will be slowly lifted in Parry Sound on Monday. It would be nice if part of the lifting of the recreational restrictions included opening the tower on Tower Hill. It’s been a year folks! The Tower was a major resource for folks trying to get in a little bit of cardiovascular exercise. Do it right and you have the perfect H.I.I.T (High Intensity Interval Training) ‘machine’.

3.2.2 is not good news for the Town. There was a possibility that the Town would receive some level of reimbursement for the services consumed by the numerous public housing units in the Town of Parry Sound. But, it was shot down by the Board of DSSAB that includes municipal representatives, who understood reimbursing the Town of Parry Sound would mean their DSSAB payments would increase. I have a sense that the area municipalities are getting a little bit ‘nasty’ when it comes to taking on any additional expenses, or even paying for what they had previously committed themselves to. They are quite happy for the Town of Parry Sound taxpayers to carry most of the ‘overheard’ expenses for social services that are provided to their residents. It’s a great deal if you can get away with it. Note to our neighbours – chipping in a little more now is much cheaper than giving the Province a good reason to force amalgamation. I have estimated the property tax implications; it works for me.

Letters 4.7. & 4.8 seem to have triggered a bit of conscience on the part of Council who have included consideration of a $20,000 expense in the 2021 Budget for repair of the Sunset Trail section of the Rotary Algonquin Regiment Fitness Trail. There is of course no guarantee that the amount will be approved. I will remind folks that this has been a problem for more than five years, the same period in which the Town has spent almost $200,000 to repair boat launches primarily for the benefit of visitors.

Council Minutes (Abridged)

Closed Session
c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board, (Proposed property exchange);
d) labour relations or employee negotiations (Director level salaries). Carried

Presentations:
Prior to the Agenda, Mayor McGarvey addressed Council and the public with concerns about the recent decision by the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit to continue the COVID-19 lock-down designation and Stay at Home order. Mayor McGarvey expressed concerns over the lock-down designation of such a large area, and the lack of advance communication to local leadership to help prepare them for implementation. Mayor McGarvey concluded with notice that two resolutions have been drafted for consideration at this meeting: requesting the Health Unit provide more pro-active communication regarding announcements; and that statistics on confirmed cases be provided for the West Parry Sound Area, distinct from the east side of the District. Mayor McGarvey then introduced Jim Hanna, Public Relations and Communications Officer of the West Parry Sound Health Centre.
Mr. Hanna read from a statement issued today by the Health Centre which expressed support for the Ontario Hospital Association’s calls for “discipline and ruthlessness” in the shared fight against COVID-19 and asked that individuals continue to practice COVID-19 transmission prevention measures.
Mr. Hanna commented that Health Centre leadership was taken by surprise by the continued lock-down announcement; that the local Health District was the only one lumped into the grey lockdown category along with the GTA after all others were lifted from lockdown to some other less restrictive category. Mr. Hanna noted that a patchwork approach won’t benefit the province and that if people don’t understand the reason for a health zone being categorized as it is, they don’t buy into it.
Upon conclusion of Mr. Hanna’s comments, Mayor McGarvey introduced two resolutions under items 9.5.2 and 9.5.3 of the minutes. Upon carriage of those two resolutions, Clerk Rebecca Johnson read from a press release provided just prior to the meeting from the Parry Sound Rotary Club advising that Rotary Club is providing disposable masks free of charge to businesses that would like them.

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – Councillor Borneman inquired as to the impact on Town staffing, operations and recreation programs if the current COVID-19 lock-down order is extended or shifted to any other designation but “green”. Director of Public Works Mike Kearns responded that a red zone designation, which might be the next transition out of lock-down, affects programming, as the Ontario Minor Hockey Association will permit training practices limited to 10 people on-ice but does not permit play. Mr. Kearns noted that ice typically comes out the end of March, and that proposals to extend the season would also impact other issues as staff then transition to outdoor maintenance activities. Mr. Kearns listed area municipalities which either did not install ice this season or have now removed it. Mr. Kearns also noted that the building is energy intensive with energy costs based on peak 24-hour demand.

3.2.2 – Councillor Borneman reported on his understanding of the past process of tax billing and payment for non-profit housing units which have subsequently been declared tax exempt. Non-profit housing passed on the bills to District Social Services Administration Board which secured funding from senior levels to pay the Town. Since declaration of the tax-exempt status, and DSSAB’s defeat of a resolution requesting that they continue to pay the taxes, Councillor Borneman suggested there should be an accounting of the funding secured from senior levels of government and the following motion was made:
Direction/Resolution(?)
That the Town send a letter to Chair of DSSAB to ask for an accounting of funding sources through senior levels of government designated for non-profit housing taxes with a reply provided as soon as possible due to spring budget preparations.
Carried

3.2.3 – In response to Councillor Backman’s inquiry regarding plowed snow preventing access to Big Sound Marine, Mr. Kearns responded that this is normal practice, and that it may be helpful to prevent people from accessing the area which is not maintained in winter.

Correspondence
4.1 – Lynne Atkinson, Executive Director, West Parry Sound Health Centre Foundation.
Appreciation for $50,000 donation from BOHF Reserve Fund towards x-ray system.
Filed

4.2 – Lynne Atkinson, Executive Director, West Parry Sound Health Centre Foundation.
Appreciation for $50,000 donation from BOHF Reserve Fund towards renewing dining room area of Lakeland Long Term Care.
Filed
4.3 – Mackenzie Taylor, Deputy Clerk, Township of Carling.
Approval of Parry Sound’s request for removal from Planning Board contingent upon Carling receiving same approval.
Filed

4.4 – Nicole Dimond, Project Coordinator, Georgian Bay Forever.
Follow-up to questions asked following February 2, 2021 deputation to Council.
Filed
4.5 – Craig Jeffery, Clerk, Township of Seguin.
Notice of Public Meeting for proposed Zoning By-law Amendment to permit cannabis grow operations in industrial zones.
Filed

4.6 – Jane Wang, Communication Officer, Census Communications.
Promotion of May 2021 Census.
See item 9.5.1

4.7 – Jo Bossart.
Concerns with erosion on the Rotary & The Algonquin Regiment Fitness Trail.

4.8 – Larry Woolner, Vice President, Sail Parry Sound.
Current projects and funding request.

Items 4.7 and 4.8 were circulated to Council, and Directors of Public Works, and Finance for follow-up. Upon confirming no objection from Council, Mayor McGarvey directed that the $20,000 request in the Sail Parry Sound letter for Sunset Trail remediation be referred to Council’s 2021 budget considerations.

Deputations
5.1 – Christy Cafovski, Executive Director, Chamber of Commerce.
Chamber of Commerce Year in Review, new Strategic Plan.
Withdrawn

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.4.1 – Non-Union Compensation Grid.
Resolution
That Council authorize a pre-budget expenditure related to the procurement of professional services of a compensation consulting firm for non-union job evaluation.
Carried

9.4.2 – Update – Key Performance Objectives in Support of the Strategic Plan.
Resolution
That Council approve the progress report on the Town’s Key Performance Objectives (KPOs) as set out in Schedule A.
Carried
In response to a Councillor request, CAO Clayton Harris confirmed that they would publish the KPOs on the Town website.

9.5.1 – Promotion of May 2021 Census.
Resolution
Whereas accurate and complete census data support programs and services that benefit our community;
Now Therefore the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound supports the 2021 Census and encourages all residents to complete their census questionnaire online. Link
Carried

9.5.2 – Request that Health Unit be Proactive in Communication on COVID-19. Resolution
Whereas there is a willingness in the community to support directives from the Province and the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit; and
Whereas the North Bay Parry Sound Health District was a Green Zone prior to the Stay- at-Home Order; and
Whereas the more restrictive the directives, the greater the financial burden on businesses and individuals in the community; and
Whereas the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit has taken a more restrictive approach than many District Health Units in Ontario by extending the Stay-at-Home Order until at least February 22, 2021; and
Whereas the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit has also taken a very restrictive approach by ordering all public ice rinks, tobogganing hills, skating trails, and Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs’ (OFSC) trails and trails utilizing Crown Land in the health unit district to be closed; and
Whereas community understanding and support is critical to achieving the objective of the directives – slowing the spread of the virus; and
Whereas the conditions in the North Bay Parry Sound Health District do not appear to be dissimilar to the conditions in many other Ontario health districts; and
Whereas variants of the virus have been confirmed in other Ontario Health Districts and the Stay-at-Home Order has been lifted; and
Whereas a greater community awareness generates greater community support; and
Whereas the Parry Sound Town Council has no authority with respect to Provincial and Health Unit directives;
NOW THEREFORE the Council of the Town of Parry Sound requests that the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit take a more pro-active approach to community outreach and communication through a range of communication techniques; and
That increased communication include greater dialogue with municipal and healthcare leaders across the health district in advance of announcements; and
That this resolution be forwarded to the Mayors and healthcare leaders within the health district, Norm Miller, MPP for Parry Sound-Muskoka and the Honourable Victor Fedeli, MPP Nipissing.
Carried

9.5.3 – Request that Health Unit Publish COVID-19 Statistics for West Parry Sound.
Resolution
Whereas in order to fight the COVID-19 virus in a community it is important to understand the status of confirmed cases in that community; and
Whereas the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit represents a very large geographic area; and
Whereas the catchment area of West Parry Sound is only a portion of the area served by North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit; and
Whereas the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit publishes and provides opioid overdose statistics to the municipal level which demonstrates the Health Unit’s ability to provide health related information without breaking confidentiality issues; and
Whereas the flow of individuals and commerce tends to follow a north/south pattern, rather than an east/west pattern;
Now therefore the Council of the Town of Parry Sound requests 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 – Approval of Funding Agreement – Provincial Gas Tax for Public Transportation.
By-law 2021 – 7106
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

10.3.1 – Appoint Plans Examiner/Building Inspector.
By-law 2021 – 7105
Being a by-law to appoint Nicholas Deroy as a Plans Examiner/Building Inspector.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – February 2, 2021

05 Friday Feb 2021

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There were no surprises with respect to the decisions made by Council. It is always worth taking a quick look at the abridged minutes below in case something catches your attention.

Town of Parry Sound Council Meeting (Abridged)

Additions to Agenda/Notice of Motion
1.1.1 – Deputation: Michelle Ogilvie, Dogs ‘n Dos – re: Pet Grooming as an Essential Service

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – In response to Councillor McCann’s inquiry regarding water main repairs on Cedar Street, Director of Public Works Mike Kearns confirmed that specific work dealing with 1950s cast iron pipes is being addressed in problematic areas, in the context of attempts to deal more systematically and holistically with infrastructure work in Town.

3.2.2 – In response to Cllr. Keith’s request for an update on the Cascade St railing to be installed, noting that the bottom half of the sidewalk is quite treacherous, Mr. Kearns reported that the freeze-thaw cycles have made for icy conditions there. During recent extreme cold, salt applied there became ineffective and staff have returned to apply more material.

3.2.3 – In response to Cllr Borneman’s inquiry regarding concerns circulating in the community questioning the estimated operational costs of the proposed Recreational Centre, CAO Clayton Harris confirmed that the concerns have been provided to consulting architects CS&P who prepared the pro formas in conjunction with the YMCA. The closest facility that approximates the programming envisioned for the West Parry Sound Area Recreation Centre is Gravenhurst, and the YMCA as operators of that facility with access to information that others might not, are tasked with and are well underway in reviewing this issue with CS&P.

3.2.4 – In response to Councillor Backman’s request for an update on funding applied for through Transport Canada regarding rail safety, Mr. Kearns reported that he has not yet heard anything back and will follow-up, as there is a lot of traffic in the particular area on Isabella Street at the double tracks.

Correspondence
4.1 – Krista St. Amant, on behalf of community members.
Request that ice remain in BOCC to resume programs after lock-down.
Filed

4.2 – Parry Sound District Social Services Administration Board.
Response to Town’s request to pay property taxes on social housing.
Filed

4.3 – Chris McConnell, President OPSEU Local 317.
Call for lobby efforts to reject the plan to close the Ontario Fire College.
Dealt with under item 9.5.1

Deputations
5.1 – ED David Sweetnam, Nicole Dimond, Brooke Harrison, Georgian Bay Forever.
Divert & Capture Program Update; Introducing Diversion 2.0.
Nicole Dimond, Project Coordinator with the Diversion 2.0 Program addressed Council with Georgian Bay Forever’s mission, and introduced Brooke Harrison, Project Coordinator for Divert and Capture – the fight to keep microplastics out of our water. Ms. Harrison reported on preliminary findings of the project to divert synthetic textile microplastics/microfibres from entering the water system through the installation in 2019 of filters on 100 washing machines in Parry Sound. With approximately 1000 homes in Parry Sound, Ms. Dimond reported an expected decrease of microfibres by 10% which is exactly what preliminary findings show. Microfibres were reduced by 4.5 fibres per litre. With 3 million litres entering the Bay every day, a reduction of even 1 fibre per litre would represent a reduction of 3 million microfibres per day.
Ms. Dimond introduced the Diversion 2.0 program, noting that 10 million kg of plastic pollution enter the Great Lakes every year from washing machines, littering, open storm drains, blowing garbage and breakdown of in-water products such as dock foam. GBF tactics to divert this pollution include the use of in-water seabin devices, gutter bins (installed at drain openings), and trash traps (installed at storm water outlets). Seven seabins, eight gutter bins and three trash traps will be installed across Georgian Bay this year.
Ms. Dimond invited Parry Sound to partner with GBF by installing one seabin, and one to two trash traps through a $3,200 purchase investment of the seabin and commitment to routinely dump collected refuse from both/all receptacles as well as enter data on trash collected. Data collected helps further public education on mitigation efforts and supports policy change, such as MPP Norm Miller’s Private Member’s Bill 228 which seeks to ban the sale of dock foam; unencapsulated dock foam is the largest source of lake water pollution. In addition, Ms. Dimond requested a $5,000 investment in plastic litter mitigation to support continued public education, for a total request of $8,200.
Ms. Harrison and Ms. Dimond responded to Councillor inquiries with the following: – alternatives to dock foam include steel pipe and thick plastic tubes;
– analysis of the amount of glass in sea bins will help determine whether glass fragments found along shorelines are on-shore remnants or are washed up from the water;
– seabins ideally should be emptied daily; response on the lifespan of a seabin will be forwarded;
– because of the usually tiny size of the litter collected in each of the receptacles, and inability to efficiently separate it into recyclables, the refuse should be deposited as garbage in trash receptacles for proper disposal;
– seabins will collect COVID-19 pandemic PPE such as facemasks which are not recyclable; public education will continue to recommend disposal of these items in the trash.
The Mayor received no objection to his suggested direction, and it was therefore carried: That GBF’s financial request of $8,200 be referred to the 2021 budget for consideration.

5.1 – Michelle Ogilvie, Owner/Operator of Dogs ‘n Dos.
Request for support of pet groomers as an essential service during COVID-19 lockdown orders.
Ms. Ogilvie provided information to Council with respect to regular pet grooming, citing the potential health hazards to dogs if issues such as matted, long hair and long nails/claws are not attended to. Ms. Ogilvie also reported on the safety measures that she and other groomers have undertaken since the onset of COVID-19, making the transaction virtually contact-less, one appointment at a time, supported by thorough sanitization between appointments.
Ms. Ogilvie noted that some other regions are permitting pet groomers to stay open with curbside pick-up and drop-off and that by-law officers in those regions have been told that tickets will not be given to groomers until there is a clear answer given from the provincial government. Ms. Ogilvie asked if the Town could follow suit and allow pet groomers to open and continue to operate safely.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – COVID-19 Pandemic – Property Tax Support for Taxpayers.
Resolution
Whereas on January 12, 2021, the Province of Ontario once again issued a State of Emergency order; and
Whereas the Province has ordered non-essential businesses to close to the public during this time; and
Whereas fewer businesses were deemed non-essential under this newest order allowing more businesses to carry on their business and keep their employees working; and
Whereas there should be an incentive for property owners to continue to pay their property taxes and not encumber their property into the future; and
Whereas property taxes are the Town’s primary source of revenue and it is important to encourage payment to maintain sufficient municipal cashflows to fund operations and meet the Town’s payment obligations; and
Whereas the Province of Ontario currently makes small business support grants available to businesses and these programs include property taxation and energy rebates; and
Whereas not all taxpayers are unable to pay their property taxes;
Therefore, given the Provincial financial assistance program for small businesses, staff be directed to work with those taxpayers having difficulty paying their taxes, including developing payment plans as an alternative to an across-the-board waiving of penalty or interest on tax and water/sewer accounts in 2021.
Carried

9.1.2 – 2021 Budgeting Schedule (Revised).
Resolution
That Council hereby approves the Revised 2021 Budgeting Schedule as set out in the attached Schedule “A”; and
That the Special Budget Meeting scheduled for February 9th, 2021 is hereby cancelled; and, That Resolution 2020-122 is hereby revoked.
Carried

9.2.1 – Pre-budget Council expenditure approval – Computer Hardware.
Resolution
That Council authorize a pre-budget expenditure related to the procurement of computer hardware equipment and devices.
Carried

9.2.2a – Pre-budget Council expenditure approval – Water/Wastewater capacity study.
Resolution
That Council authorize a pre-budget expenditure related to the procurement of professional services to assess water and wastewater servicing/capacity and develop computer models for these systems.
Carried

9.2.2b – Sole Source Award to Tatham Engineering for Water & Wastewater Servicing Capacity Studies.
Resolution
Whereas the Town is receiving a number of development inquiries and it is therefore important to undertake water and wastewater capacity studies as soon as possible;
Whereas the Town’s Procurement Policy provides for sole-sourcing;
Whereas Tatham Engineering is a well recognized engineering firm providing services in the municipal and private sectors;
Whereas Tatham Engineering has significant experience with municipal infrastructure projects and has gained knowledge and an understanding regarding the Town’s infrastructure through involvement in various projects over the years;
Whereas Tatham Engineering has proven capable of delivering quality services and products in a timely manner and has become familiar with the Town’s current circumstances related to both water and wastewater challenges;
Now therefore Council of the Town of Parry Sound hereby authorizes the sole source purchase of services from Tatham Engineering related to the development of Water and Wastewater servicing capacity studies in accordance with the Municipal Purchasing Policy.
Carried

9.3.1 – EMS Paramedic Response Unit Capital Purchase.
Resolution
That Council for the Town of Parry Sound authorize the purchase of two Ambulances from Crestline in the amount of $152,957 + HST, and
That Council approve the purchase of one Paramedic Response Unit from Rowland Emergency Vehicles in the amount of $71,219.00 + HST; and
That said units to be funded from the EMS Capital Reserve Fund.
Carried

9.4.1 – 2020 Economic Development Report, and;
Introduction of Regional Economic Development Officer James Cox.
Resolution
EDO Vlad Shehovtsov addressed Council from a prepared presentation, identifying 2020 economic development activity including COVID-19 and Local Business Support; Cruise Industry; Film Industry; Investment Attraction Projects, and Key Goals for 2021. The presentation is available as part of the Council agenda.
After concluding his presentation, Mr. Shehovtsov introduced James Cox, recently appointed Regional Economic Development Officer with the West Parry Sound Economic Development Collaborative (WPSEDC), a partnership of the seven area municipalities. Mr. Cox addressed Council with a brief update on the direction of the WPSEDC, with its specific mandate to build West Parry Sound as a region, complementing local work as identified by Mr. Shehovtsov in his presentation. Current focus of the WPSEDC is on business retention and expansion with outreach to area businesses to assist not only in recovery from the pandemic, but to understand specific challenges in doing business, and thereby seeking to take steps to remove those challenges and build a long term strategy for economic development. Mr. Cox reported that other work priorities include making the region development-ready and improving engagement between the WPSEDC and municipalities, and that he expected to report on a semi-regular basis to Council.
Resolution
That the 2020 Economic Development Report attached as Schedule A be received for information purposes.
Carried

9.5.1 – Support to Keep Ontario Fire College Open.
Resolution
WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College has been in existence since 1949; and
WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College is one of the primary sources of certified training for Ontario Firefighters; and
WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College has built a reputation of integrity, credibility, and reliability in providing some of the best training to our Fire Services within the Province of Ontario; and
WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College has been used to train and certify both Volunteer, Part-Time and Career firefighters throughout Ontario; and
WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College gives Ontario Firefighters another option other than Regional Training Centers to obtain National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) certifications; and
WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College is the most cost-effective method to certify Firefighters to NFPA Standards in Ontario; and
WHEREAS the Ontario Government enacted and revoked 0. Reg. 379/18: Firefighter Certification in 2018; and
WHEREAS when the Ontario Government revoked 0. Reg. 379/18: Firefighter Certification, it was made known by the Office of the Solicitor General that the act would be amended and brought back in the future;

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Town of Parry Sound requests that the Province of Ontario reverse their decision to close the Ontario Fire College as the OFC is one of the best and most cost-effective methods for municipalities to train their firefighters which assists us in protecting our residents; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT this Resolution is forwarded to the Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario; the Honourable Sylvia Jones, Ontario Solicitor General; Norm Miller, Member for Parry Sound Muskoka; the Ontario Fire Marshal, Jon Pegg; District of Parry Sound municipalities, ROMA, OSUM and AMO.
Carried

9.5.2 – Support for Pet Grooming to be Declared an Essential Service.
Resolution
That Whereas pet grooming is important to the health and welfare of these animals, and
Whereas pet grooming businesses have adapted best practices during the COVID pandemic, developing high standards of health and safety, and making their businesses contact-less;
Now Therefore the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound authorises the Mayor to send a letter to the Ontario Chief Medical Officer of Health, with a copy to the local North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit requesting that pet grooming be deemed an essential service, for purposes of enabling pet grooming businesses to stay open during the current Stay-At-Home Order.
Carried

By-laws
10.1.1 – Appointment of Deputy Treasurer.
By-Law: 2021 – 7101
Being a By-law to Appoint Suzanne Diller as Deputy-Treasurer for the Town of Parry Sound.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.3.1 – Amendment to the Fees & Service Charges By-law 2010-5408.
By-law 2021 – 7102
Being a By-law to amend the Fees & Service Charges By-law 2010-5408 to include an Appeal Fee, Property Standards and Clean Yards Administrative Fee, Planning Fee and Cost Recovery for Damage to Municipal Property by Motor Vehicle Accident Fee.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.4.1 – Lakeland Holdings Shareholders Agreement Amendments.
By-law 2021 – 7103
Being a by-law to authorize the execution of Lakeland Holding Ltd. Amended Shareholders’ Agreement, substantially in the form attached as Schedule A.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

 

Council Agenda Preview – February 2, 2021

30 Saturday Jan 2021

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Well, well some good news in this week’s Town of Parry Sound’s council agenda in terms of Item 4.2.

4.2 – Parry Sound District Social Services Administration Board. Response to Town’s request to pay property taxes on social housing.
It seems that the Parry Sound District Social Services Administration Board has approved the payment of an amount equivalent to the property taxes that would be owed on a number of properties supported by the Parry Sound District Social Services Administration Board. The amount to be paid appears to be significant but I will refrain from providing an amount. I am sure this will a major the subject of discussion Tuesday night. I offer my congratulations and thanks to Town Staff for pushing this issue.

9.1.2 – 2021 Budgeting Schedule (Revised).
A revised and delayed schedule has been proposed. It pushes final budget approval back to April. It is not clear from the information provided when the Public will be able to access the draft budget to permit some analysis and feedback.

9.2.2 – Pre-budget Council expenditure approval – Water/Wastewater capacity study.
This is interesting and acknowledges that the Town doesn’t have a handle on the future water and wastewater needs of the Town. Better late than never. There certainly will be much more demand than forecast in the recent Water Report. The needs could explode if Acorn Ridge were to be realized and the properties on Emily Street with fabulous views of the waterfront and the setting sun were to move forward. There is also the possibility of serious waterfront development. Put it all together and supply will exceed demand if it hasn’t already. Parry Sound is becoming a mid-market destination and not to be compared with Muskoka. It would be nice to have a handle on what that might mean for Town infrastructure demands.

9.4.1 – 2020 Economic Development Report
According to the recent Water Report future economic development in the Town will not increase water use. It was obvious that this estimate was wrong, but it will be nice to understand what Town Staff is thinking and planning in terms of economic development.
Note – there was no presentation attached with the minutes as noted in the agenda.

10.4.1 – Lakeland Holdings Shareholders Agreement Amendments.
I really don’t have much to offer from a contract perspective. What is interesting is the summary of ownership of Lakeland Holdings and the various generators and business sectors they are involved in. I have pasted two tables from the Agenda at the end if you are interested in this information.

Abridged Agenda

Correspondence
4.1 – Krista St. Amant, on behalf of community members.
Request that ice remain in BOCC to resume programs after lock-down.

4.2 – Parry Sound District Social Services Administration Board.
Response to Town’s request to pay property taxes on social housing.

Deputations
5.1 – ED David Sweetnam, Nicole Dimond, Brooke Harrison, Georgian Bay Forever.
Divert & Capture Program Update; Introducing Diversion 2.0.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – COVID-19 Pandemic – Property Tax Support for Taxpayers.
Resolution
Whereas on January 12, 2021, the Province of Ontario once again issued a State of Emergency order; and
Whereas the Province has ordered non-essential businesses to close to the public during this time; and
Whereas fewer businesses were deemed non-essential under this newest order allowing more businesses to carry on their business and keep their employees working; and
Whereas there should be an incentive for property owners to continue to pay their property taxes and not encumber their property into the future; and
Whereas property taxes are the Town’s primary source of revenue and it is important to encourage payment to maintain sufficient municipal cashflows to fund operations and meet the Town’s payment obligations; and
Whereas the Province of Ontario currently makes small business support grants available to businesses and these programs include property taxation and energy rebates; and
Whereas not all taxpayers are unable to pay their property taxes;
Therefore, given the Provincial financial assistance program for small businesses, staff be directed to work with those taxpayers having difficulty paying their taxes, including developing payment plans as an alternative to an across the board waiving of penalty or interest on tax and water/sewer accounts in 2021.

9.1.2 – 2021 Budgeting Schedule (Revised).
Resolution
That Council hereby approves the Revised 2021 Budgeting Schedule as set out in the attached Schedule “A”; and
That the Special Budget Meeting scheduled for February 9th, 2021 is hereby cancelled; and,
That Resolution 2020-122 is hereby revoked.

9.2.1 – Pre-budget Council expenditure approval – Computer Hardware.
Resolution
That Council authorize a pre-budget expenditure related to the procurement of computer hardware equipment and devices.

9.2.2 – Pre-budget Council expenditure approval – Water/Wastewater capacity study.
Resolution
That Council authorize a pre-budget expenditure related to the procurement of professional services to assess water and wastewater servicing/capacity and develop computer models for these systems.

9.3.1 – EMS Paramedic Response Unit Capital Purchase.
Resolution
That Council for the Town of Parry Sound authorize the purchase of two Ambulances from Crestline in the amount of $152,957 + HST, and
That Council approve the purchase of one Paramedic Response Unit from Rowland Emergency Vehicles in the amount of $71,219.00 +HST; and
That said units to be funded from the EMS Capital Reserve Fund.

9.4.1 – 2020 Economic Development Report, and;
Introduction of Regional Economic Development Officer James Cox.
Resolution
That the 2020 Economic Development Report attached as Schedule A be received for information purposes.

9.5.1 – Support to Keep Ontario Fire College Open.
Resolution
WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College has been in existence since 1949; and
WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College is one of the primary sources of certified training for Ontario Firefighters; and
WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College has built a reputation of integrity, credibility, and reliability in providing some of the best training to our Fire Services within the Province of Ontario; and
WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College has been used to train and certify both Volunteer, Part-Time and Career firefighters throughout Ontario; and
WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College gives Ontario Firefighters another option other than Regional Training Centers to obtain National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) certifications; and
WHEREAS the Ontario Fire College is the most cost-effective method to certify Firefighters to NFPA Standards in Ontario; and
WHEREAS the Ontario Government enacted and revoked 0. Reg. 379/18: Firefighter Certification in 2018; and
WHEREAS when the Ontario Government revoked 0. Reg. 379/18: Firefighter Certification, it was made known by the Office of the Solicitor General that the act would be amended and brought back in the future;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Town of Parry Sound requests that the Province of Ontario reverse their decision to close the Ontario Fire College as the OFC is one of the best and most cost-effective methods for municipalities to train their firefighters which assists us in protecting our residents; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT this Resolution is forwarded to the Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario; the Honourable Sylvia Jones, Ontario Solicitor General; Norm Miller, Member for Parry Sound Muskoka; the Ontario Fire Marshal, Jon Pegg; District of Parry Sound municipalities, ROMA, OSUM and AMO.

9.5.2 Support for Pet Grooming to be Declared an Essential Service.
Resolution
That Whereas pet grooming is important to the health and welfare of these animals, and
Whereas pet grooming businesses have adapted best practices during the COVID pandemic, developing high standards of health and safety, and making their businesses contact-less;
Now Therefore the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound authorises the Mayor to send a letter to the Ontario Chief Medical Officer of Health requesting that pet grooming be deemed an essential service, for purposes of enabling pet grooming businesses to stay open during the current Stay-At-Home Order.

By-laws
10.1.1 – Appointment of Deputy Treasurer.
By-Law: 2021 – 7101
Being a By-law to Appoint Suzanne Diller as Deputy-Treasurer for the Town of Parry Sound.

10.3.1 – Amendment to the Fees & Service Charges By-law 2010-5408.
By-law 2021 – 7102
Being a By-law to amend the Fees & Service Charges By-law 2010-5408 to include an Appeal Fee, Property Standards and Clean Yards Administrative Fee, Planning Fee and Cost Recovery for Damage to Municipal Property by Motor Vehicle Accident Fee.

10.4.1 – Lakeland Holdings Shareholders Agreement Amendments.
By-law 2021 – 7103
Being a by-law to authorize the execution of Lakeland Holding Ltd. Amended Shareholders’ Agreement, substantially in the form attached as Schedule A.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – January 19, 2021

22 Friday Jan 2021

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There are no real surprises in the minutes of the January 19, 2021 meeting of the Town of Parry Sound Council.

9.2.1 – Provincial State of Emergency – Bobby Orr Community Centre Ice Out.
The ice will be removed from the Bobby Orr Community Centre with the possibility that it will be reinstalled if/when provincial restrictions are lifted and there is committed use of the ice.

10.1.2 – Water and Wastewater Rates.
There was discussion and a very slight rework of projected water use and how it impacted rates. It was felt that any increase would only negligibly impact rates. I continue to believe that there is sandbagging going on but agree there is little reason to alter the proposed rate structure. I will be following water consumption over the next few years to see how close it comes to the consultant’s report forecast. I won’t be surprised if there is a larger than forecast deviation from the report’s consumption assumptions.

A final question – when will we see the 2021 draft budget? I hope that it will not be rammed through to approval without community review and input. I am finding that transparency in the operation of the Town and Council is being reduced.

Abridged Council Minutes

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:
d) labour relations or employee negotiations; (Collective Agreement Union Negotiations; and Employee impacts resulting from Provincial Declared Emergency Lock-Down);
k) a position, plan, procedure, criteria or instruction to be applied to any negotiations carried on or to be carried on by or on behalf of the municipality or local board, (Collective Agreement Union Negotiations).

Presentations:
1. 2020 Order of Parry Sound
Mayor McGarvey presented the 2020 Order of Parry Sound to Linda West, recognizing her leadership role in establishing a COVID Response Committee within the Rotary Club of Parry Sound of which she is currently President.
Under this Committee, Ms. West organized a shopping and curbside pick-up/delivery service supported by Rotarians, Sobeys and many volunteers to ensure a safe, continued supply of groceries to area residents.
Ms. West recognized a need to supplement the Breakfast Club Program which has offered nutritious food items to all students attending physical school facilities. Students in need, learning at home on-line, were provided with grocery cards to be able to get those nutritious items previously provided at the school. High School students also struggling with on-line learning benefitted from a tutoring program set up through grants applied for by Ms. West.
Other projects initiated and/or coordinated by Ms. West included the organization of Christmas hampers, distribution of residential patio planters complete with soil and starter veggies, and bus delivery of grocery orders for a local First Nations community under temporary COVID lock-down.

Ms. West accepted the award, expressing appreciation in turn, saying: “I will cherish it for ever; nevertheless, it has been earned by a team who made great decisions, took action together, attracted support and delivered the services our community needed during this challenging year.”

2. 2020 Year in Review
Mayor McGarvey reviewed development in the Town over the last year, with accompanying photos illustrating building development and economic stimulus initiatives such as buy local campaigns.

3. Coping with COVID
Mayor McGarvey concluded his presentation with appreciation for the work of medical staff, front-line workers and volunteers during this COVID pandemic, as well as reminding the public on means of obtaining latest information with regards to the pandemic.

Additions to Agenda/Notice of Motion
1.1.1 Councillor Backman reported that she would like an opportunity to describe a Youth Founders entrepreneurial initiative. This was added as item 10.5.1 to the agenda.

Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof
1.4.1 Councillor Horne declared pecuniary interest on item 10.4.1 regarding donations to the West Parry Sound Health Centre Foundation and Lakeland Long Term Care from the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame Reserve Fund as these two organizations are governed and operated by the West Parry Sound Health Centre (WPSHC) and his spouse is the Chief Operating Officer for the WPSHC. Councillor Horne left the meeting for the item, did not participate in discussion, nor vote on the issue.

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – In response to Councillor McCann’s inquiry expressing concerns regarding low lighting at the Pine Drive and Bowes Street intersection, Director of Public Works Mike Kearns reported that he would review the lighting and cautioned that there might be restrictions in terms of light standards because of the congestion of transformers and wire-sets and set back requirements and clearances at that location.

3.2.2. – In response to Councillor Backman’s inquiry regarding the deterioration of boat houses near the Sailing School, Director of Development and Protective Services Dave Thompson reported that staff has been attempting since last summer to address this situation with property owner MNR and presumed property lessees who own the boat houses, however to date have not been able move the issue forward, as MNR has not provided requested paperwork confirming the lease arrangements.

3.2.3 – In response to Councillor Borneman’s inquiry as to what tourism marketing activity Explorers’ Edge has or is undertaking throughout the COVID pandemic, CAO Clayton Harris reported that he would contact both the Town’s Economic Development Officer Vladimir Shehovtsov and the new Regional Economic Development Officer James Cox to follow-up with Explorers’ Edge and report back to Council.

Correspondence
4.1 – Wayne Major
Concern regarding wait time & crowding at Town boat launches.

4.2 – Susan Heder
Appreciation for Rugged Trail.
Filed

4.3 – Lynne Atkinson
Request for Proclamation of Feb 6, 2021 as International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation.
See item 9.5.1 on Agenda

4.4 – Layla MacCallum
Request that ice stay in at BOCC, citing benefits of healthy activity for youth in particular.

4.5 – Dan Hildebrand, President, Parry Sound Hockey Club
Request that ice stay in at BOCC, until lock down has ended, i.e. Feb. 11 with commitment to use existing ice time to end of season, including extending use beyond March should the option be available.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.2.1 – Provincial State of Emergency – Bobby Orr Community Centre Ice Out.
Resolution
That Council approve the closure of the ice surface at the Bobby Orr Community Centre in response to the Provincial Emergency Order/Closure of non-essential services.
Defeated

Resolution
That Council direct staff to proceed with the removal of ice at the BOCC; and
Further that staff be directed that should the state of emergency issued by the Province of Ontario be lifted before Feb 20th and, the demand for ice time rental is at or exceeds the current level that the ice be re-installed promptly so long as no other directives from either the province or the Health Unit prohibiting the use of the facility are issued in the interim.
Carried

9.2.2 Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program – Covid Stream – Local Government.
Resolution
That Council receive the report Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program – COVID Stream – Local Government for information purposes.
Carried

9.3.1 Declaration of Second Provincial Emergency.
Resolution
That Council receive the report Declaration of Second Provincial Emergency for information purposes.
Carried

9.4.1 Rural Economic Development Grant.
Resolution
Be it resolved that the Town of Parry Sound supports the DBA’s request to submit a grant application under the Rural Economic Development (RED) program; and
That the Town of Parry Sound provide 50% match funding up to $25,450.
Carried

9.5.1 – Proclamation of Zero Tolerance for FGM.
Resolution
Whereas International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is observed around the world and provides an opportunity to honor those women, girls, boys and men who are actively and courageously working towards an end to this harmful practice.
Whereas this day invites us to reflect on the fact that 4.1 million girls are still at risk of mutilation each year, including girls in Canada.
Whereas on this day, we acknowledge that female genital mutilation is an issue in more than 90 countries and on every continent except Antarctica, and that there are at least 200 million FGM survivors in the world, including more than 100,000 in Canada.
Whereas we acknowledge that FGM has no basis in any religious text and is recognized by the United Nations and other world bodies as child abuse and an abuse of a girl’s fundamental human rights.
Whereas we acknowledge that FGM has no benefits and causes only harm, including death, difficulties with urination, menstruation, sexual intimacy, post-traumatic stress disorder and increased maternal and child mortality.
Whereas on this International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, we acknowledge and celebrate all national and international efforts being made, especially at the grass roots level, to achieve United Nations Sustainable Millennium Development Goal #5, which calls for the elimination of FGM and other harmful traditional practices by 2030.
Whereas on this Day of Zero Tolerance, we call for increased, concerted global and Canadian action to end female genital mutilation, and ask all governments-international, national, and local- to fully uphold the human rights of women and girls so they can live a life free from the violence that is female genital mutilation.
NOW THEREFORE, Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound does hereby proclaim February 6, 2021, as International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation in the Town of Parry Sound.
Carried

By-laws
10.1.1 – Temporary Borrowing Authorization.
By-law 2021 – 7096
Being a by-law to authorize temporary borrowing to meet the current expenditures of the Town of Parry Sound until taxes are collected and other revenues are received.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.1.2 – Water and Wastewater Rates.
Director of Finance Stephanie Phillips introduced Watson & Associates managing partner Andrew Grunda who provided an explanation of underlying assumptions made within the November 9, 2020 Water & Wastewater Rate Study, in response to some comments received from the public. Mr. Grunda noted that a review of the number of water connections made since 2010 at roughly 7 per year, combined with a review of the number of developments approved by Council, registered and building permit-ready helped to determine a projected number of 3 connections over the coming 10 years, which supports the recommended rates. At the request of Town staff in response to public comments concerned that the assumed projected development was too low, Mr. Grunda undertook a sensitivity analysis assuming an increase to 20 annual connections. This resulted in a projected annual reduction of only $3.00 to $4.00 per year for the average residential customer and therefore Mr. Grunda expressed confidence in the report’s recommended rates.
CAO Clayton Harris confirmed in response to Council discussion that staff could provide annual or more frequent reports on the number of connections and consumption as a means of keeping abreast of whether the report projections are on target or not and whether any rate adjustments should be made as a result of discrepancy between the projection and actuals.
By-law 2021 – 7097
Being a By-law to establish water and wastewater rates in the Town of Parry Sound, starting with the consumption month of March 2021.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

Resolution 2021- 007
That the Town of Parry Sound’s Ontario Regulation 453/07 Water Financial Plan prepared by Watson & Associates Economists Ltd. dated January 15, 2021 be approved; and
That notice of availability of the Financial Plan be advertised; and
That the Financial Plan dated January 15, 2021 be submitted to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. (O.Reg. 453/07, section 3 (1) 6); and further
That the resolution of Council approving the Financial Plan be submitted to the MECP, satisfying the requirements under the Safe Drinking Water Act. (S.D.W.A. section 32 (5) 2.ii.)
Carried

10.3.1 – Agreements for the use of public property for Georgian Bay Airways/Tailwinds.
By-law 2021 – 7098
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of agreements with Georgian Bay Airways for the lease of a water lot; and maintenance of a Town parking lot.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.4.1 – Donations to the West Parry Sound Health Centre Foundation and Lakeland Long Term Care from the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame Reserve Fund.
By-law 2021 – 7099
Being a By-law to Authorize Donations from the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame Reserve Fund, transfer the balance, and close the Fund.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.5.1 – Youth Founders Entrepreneurship.
Councillor Backman reported on and requested that a program entitled Youth Founders Entrepreneurship, aimed at working with youth aged 14 to 24 to help overcome barriers to finding meaningful work, be considered by the Founders Circle, of which the Town is a contributor. CAO Clayton Harris confirmed that in the first year of the Founders Circle some monies were set aside for consideration of high school student entrepreneurship, and that he would bring forward this issue for the Founders Circle to consider as well.

Council Agenda Preview – January 19, 2021

17 Sunday Jan 2021

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There are a couple of surprises in this week’s council meeting agenda. And of course, the water rate proposal ignores comments from members of the public because that would create too much extra work.

9.2.1 – Provincial State of Emergency – Bobby Orr Community Centre Ice Out.
Town Staff is suggesting that the ice surface be removed from the Bobby Orr Community Centre as a cost saving measure with the current restrictions prohibiting public use and the concern that the restrictions will continue through end of the usual season. The rink costs $3,250 per week in energy costs. This does not include staffing expenses, maintenance of the building, and capital costs. Some Staff might then be deployed to other Town activities.

10.1.2 – Water and Wastewater Rates.
I have already shared my comments in an earlier post. I will note that Mr. George Ashford provided a well-reasoned letter to the Town in response to the proposal. I know that he ran for Council at the last election and was not elected. I think he deserves your vote if he chooses to run again at the next election. He made the effort and took the time to comment. There is at least one not so pretty face on Council who seems to be asleep and perhaps should be given every second Tuesday evening off to catch a few winks.

10.4.1 – Donations to the West Parry Sound Health Centre Foundation and Lakeland Long Term Care from the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame Reserve Fund.
This concerns a $100,000 donation to these two facilities from a reserve fund that was formed in 2007. I think this is a very generous donation that was requested by Mr. Orr. As I wrote in an earlier post, I do not think that his earlier support for the current Republican administration should be held against him anymore than one’s religion or ethnicity should be held against them for the actions of some extremists.

Spelling Lesson:
The device that measures your water and electrical consumption is a meter, not a metre. A metre is a unit of measurement, which the Yankees spell meter.

Closed Session
d) labour relations or employee negotiations; (Collective Agreement Union Negotiations; and Employee impacts resulting from Provincial Declared Emergency Lock-Down);
k) a position, plan, procedure, criteria or instruction to be applied to any negotiations carried on or to be carried on by or on behalf of the municipality or local board, (Collective Agreement Union Negotiations).

 Presentations
1. 2020 Order of Parry Sound
2. 2020 Year in Review
3. Coping with COVID

Correspondence
4.1 – Wayne Major
Concern regarding wait time & crowding at Town boat launches.

4.2 – Susan Heder
Appreciation for Rugged Trail.

4.3 – Lynne Atkinson
Request for Proclamation of Feb 6, 2020 as International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.2.1 – Provincial State of Emergency – Bobby Orr Community Centre Ice Out.
Resolution
That Council approve the closure of the ice surface at the Bobby Orr Community Centre in response to the Provincial Emergency Order/Closure of non-essential services.

9.2.2 – Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program – Covid Stream – Local Government.
Resolution
That Council receive the report Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program – COVID Stream – Local Government for information purposes.

9.3.1 – Declaration of Second Provincial Emergency.
Resolution
That Council receive the report Declaration of Second Provincial Emergency for information purposes.

9.4.1 – Rural Economic Development Grant.
Resolution
Be it resolved that the Town of Parry Sound supports the DBA’s request to submit a grant application under the Rural Economic Development (RED) program; and
That the Town of Parry Sound provide 50% match funding up to $25,450.

9.5.1 Proclamation of Zero Tolerance for FGM.
Resolution
Whereas International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is observed around the world and provides an opportunity to honor those women, girls, boys and men who are actively and courageously working towards an end to this harmful practice.
Whereas this day invites us to reflect on the fact that 4.1 million girls are still at risk of mutilation each year, including girls in Canada.
Whereas on this day, we acknowledge that female genital mutilation is an issue in more than 90 countries and on every continent except Antarctica, and that there are at least 200 million FGM survivors in the world, including more than 100,000 in Canada.
Whereas we acknowledge that FGM has no basis in any religious text and is recognized by the United Nations and other world bodies as child abuse and an abuse of a girl’s fundamental human rights.
Whereas we acknowledge that FGM has no benefits and causes only harm, including death, difficulties with urination, menstruation, sexual intimacy, post-traumatic stress disorder and increased maternal and child mortality.
Whereas on this International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, we acknowledge and celebrate all national and international efforts being made, especially at the grass roots level, to achieve United Nations Sustainable Millennium Development Goal #5, which calls for the elimination of FGM and other harmful traditional practices by 2030.
Whereas on this Day of Zero Tolerance, we call for increased, concerted global and Canadian action to end female genital mutilation, and ask all governments-international, national, and local- to fully uphold the human rights of women and girls so they can live a life free from the violence that is female genital mutilation.
NOW THEREFORE, Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound does hereby proclaim February 6, 2021, as International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation in the Town of Parry Sound.

By-laws
10.1.1 – Temporary Borrowing Authorization.
By-law 2021 – 7096
Being a by-law to authorize temporary borrowing to meet the current expenditures of the Town of Parry Sound until taxes are collected and other revenues are received.

10.1.2 – Water and Wastewater Rates.
By-law 2021 – 7097
Being a By-law to establish water and wastewater rates in the Town of Parry Sound, starting with the consumption month of March 2021.
Resolution
That the Town of Parry Sound’s Ontario Regulation 453/07 Water Financial Plan prepared by Watson & Associates Economists Ltd. dated January 15, 2021 be approved; and
That notice of availability of the Financial Plan be advertised; and
That the Financial Plan dated January 15, 2021 be submitted to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. (O.Reg. 453/07, section 3 (1) 6); and further
That the resolution of Council approving the Financial Plan be submitted to the MECP, satisfying the requirements under the Safe Drinking Water Act. (S.D.W.A. section 32 (5) 2.ii.).

10.3.1 – Agreements for the use of public property for Georgian Bay Airways/Tailwinds.
By-law 2021 – 7098
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of agreements with Georgian Bay Airways for the lease of a water lot; and maintenance of a Town parking lot.

10.4.1 – Donations to the West Parry Sound Health Centre Foundation and Lakeland Long Term Care from the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame Reserve Fund.
By-law 2021 – 7099
Being a By-law to Authorize Donations from the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame Reserve Fund, transfer the balance, and close the Fund.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – December 15, 2020

23 Wednesday Dec 2020

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There are no surprises but there are issues you need to understand and possibly follow up on:
9.4.1 – Water & Wastewater Rate Study
9.5.1 – West Parry Sound Recreation & Culture Centre

Abridged Minutes

Closed Session
(c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board (developer request to purchase land from the Town; MTO offer to sell land to the Town);
e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board, (claim against Town funds);
k) a position, plan, procedure, criteria or instruction to be applied to any negotiations carried on or to be carried on by or on behalf of the municipality or local board, (claim against Town funds);

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiry regarding a maintenance hole on Joseph St and the status of railing installation on Cascade St., Director of Public Works Mike Kearns responded that if temperatures moderate, a better patch work can be done for the rest of winter around the Joseph St. maintenance hole. With respect to the railing on Cascade Street, Mr. Kearns reported that although the railing was part of the contract installation, there was a decision made at some point not to re-install. Currently he is attempting to ensure design that will not impede snow removal and still allow for a 1.5 meter regulation width sidewalk.

3.2.2 – In response to Councillor Burden’s concerns on behalf of the Downtown Business Association (DBA) regarding garbage on James Street between Seguin and Mary, and their request for garbage containers mid-block, Mr. Kearns reported that the MOU between Town and DBA identifies that garbage receptacles are removed during winter conditions and a few remain. One of the challenges in wintertime is to place receptacles where they won’t impede snow removal.

2.3 – Councillor Backman commented that she would like the existing garbage receptacles in the downtownarea replaced by bins supporting recycling. In addition, Councillor Backman requested an update on the CIINO initiative to which CAO Clayton Harris responded per the following: The Regional Economic Development Collaborative is composed of all seven West Parry Sound area municipalities; the new EDO James Cox started December 7th with an office located in the Township of The Archipelago building; Chair Michelle Hendry and Mr. Harris met with him yesterday, and will set a meeting with Mr. Cox and the Town’s EDO Vlad Shehovtsov for Thursday.

3.2.4 – In response to Councillor Borneman’s inquiry as to potential for a rink at Kinsmen Park this winter, Mr. Kearns reported that the Health Unit has released guidelines on operating outdoor rinks, and that pending appropriate weather conditions, plans are in place to make an outdoor rink at Kinsmen Park.

3.2.5 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiry regarding winter solstice, Mr. Kearns reported that to his knowledge no celebratory plans were in place to recognize winter solstice this year.

Correspondence
4.1 – Rick Kerr
Request for amendment to Cemetery Regulations – for Council’s consideration.

4.2 – Ann MacDiarmid, Mayor, Seguin Township
Withdrawal from Boundary Adjustment Discussions.
Filed

4.3 – Aleesha Clark, Committee Chair, Absolutely Georgian Bay
Introduction of Absolutely Georgian Bay Tourism Cooperative Inc.
Filed

Deputations
5.1 – Tom Parks, OHE Consultants.
Request for exemption from Noise Regulations for Jail Demolition.
Mr. Park gave an explanation of the reason for the requested exemption from the noise regulations by-law and acknowledged that the Ontario Regulations 131/20 which prohibit municipalities from regulating construction noise between 6 AM and 10 PM may mean that his request is not necessary as contractors will be able to work from 6 AM to 9 AM prior to court, from 6 PM to 10 PM after court and on weekends and statutory holidays. In addition, Mr. Park responded to inquiries about how the work will be undertaken, including filling with uncompressible fill; and lighting during nighttime operations.

9.1.1 – Winter Control Level of Service Policy.
Resolution
That Council endorse and adopt the attached Winter Control Level of Service Policy for roads and sidewalks.
Carried

9.2.1 – Extension of Temporary Patio Permissions for Restaurants During COVID-19.
Resolution
Whereas on June 8, 2020 the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) permitted new patios or temporary additions to patios to provide more opportunities to local businesses while protecting health and safety, subject to municipal requirements, and provided an extension to these timelines on December 9, 2021; and
Whereas the Council for the Town of Parry Sound passed Resolution 2020-067 to permit temporary restaurant and bar patios and opted not to enforce the Zoning By-law or Site Plan Agreements as it related to parking infractions as a result of these patios until January 1, 2021; and
Whereas Covid-19 will be an issue affecting restaurants for the foreseeable future and the Town wishes to extend the timelines of this Resolution to be in tandem with the AGCO’s extension.
Now Therefore be it Resolved that the Council for the Town of Parry Sound supports an extension until January 1, 2022 to the terms noted in Resolution 2020-067.
Carried

9.2.2 – Consent Application B/45A&B/2020 – Macazer Holding.
Resolution
That Council of the Town of Parry Sound hereby supports Parry Sound Area Planning Board Application Number B45A&B/2020 – Macazer Holding.
Carried

9.3.1 – The 2019-2020 Annual Report.
Resolution
That Council receive the 2019-2020 Annual Report as attached, and direct staff to make copies of it available to the public and circulated to MP Scott Aitchison, MPP Norm Miller, the Downtown Business Association, the Chamber of Commerce and other agencies and organizations as appropriate.
Carried

9.4.1 – Water & Wastewater Rate Study
Sean-Michael Stephen of Watson & Associates Economists addressed Council from a prepared presentation regarding a proposed ten-year sewer and water rate structure to address Council’s previous direction to move to a structure that includes a base charge and consumptive rate that is uniform across all customers. The proposed recommendation includes a differentiated rate based on meter size with no distinction between residential and non-residential customers, and consumptive component based on actual usage for metered customer with no minimum consumption charge. Built into the rate structure are increased annual charges for operating expenditures plus inflation estimated at 2% per year, and capital related expenditure based on the capital funding plan.
Resolution
WHEREAS Council approved a change from the current water and wastewater rate structure to a rate structure with a monthly fixed charge, based on meter size, and a consumptive rate (per gallon/per cubic metre) that is uniform for all customers; and
WHEREAS pricing structure changes were deferred to investigate additional options;
NOW THEREFORE Council hereby approves the posting of the Town of Parry Sound Water and Wastewater Rate Study for public circulation and comment; and
THAT the Water Financial Plan be prepared in the format required under O.Reg. 453/07 and submitted to the Province to maintain the Town’s Municipal Drinking Water Licence; and further
THAT the recommended rates be brought forward for consideration.
Carried

Other Business
9.5.1 – West Parry Sound Recreation & Culture Centre.
Spokesperson: Donald Sanderson, Chair, Wellness Centre & Pool Committee
Wellness Centre & Pool Committee Chair Donald Sanderson introduced himself and consultants present, and then proceeded to give a presentation from a series of slides on the proposed West Parry Sound Area Recreation Centre.
In addition, questions posed were responded to by Mr. Sanderson or other members of the team per the following:
– it is unknown whether funding is jeopardized if a municipality pulls out; the project and funding formula would need to be reworked for approval by remaining municipalities.
– although the objective of the proposal was to develop program for the facility using 5 acres, there is an additional 10 acres available as well as 9 acres owned by the Town abutting the property that could be used for additional programming.
– Soil samples have been taken in the parking lot and play field area, and on the existing developed area, and all is buildable.
– the building can be re-oriented or expanding upon once an architect has been selected to proceed with finalizing siting and design.
– The Municipal Joint Service Agreement requires 100% agreement of members to release a municipality from the Agreement, with the rationale that any municipality on its own deciding to undertake a recreation project of this magnitude would be committed for decades.
– 2% of annual operating budget is put into a reserve fund to address future capital expenditures – an industry standard.
– Terms of Reference for the Joint Municipal Service Board are essentially contained within the Agreement – a broad constitutional document to set up the Board.
– with respect to the receipt by other municipalities of the presentation, the Townships of McDougall and The Archipelago have both passed resolutions endorsing the recommendations; the Municipality of Whitestone received the presentation and will decide at a future meeting, which was their planned approach to the issue.
– the operating agent will be determined by the Joint Municipal Service Board; the hope is that an arrangement can be made with the YMCA.
– The YMCA owns the land and is agreeable to leasing it for a nominal amount per year for 100 years. If as a condition of funding the land must be owned by the grant recipient, the YMCA is agreeable to sell the land for a nominal amount.
– consider changing the word “burden” to something more positive in the Joint Municipal Service Board Agreement vis a bis “municipalities shall share the burden of the annual contribution.”
Mayor McGarvey thanked Chair Sanderson and other presenters.
Resolution 2020 – 147
Be it Resolved that subject to all area municipalities agreeing to participate as outlined in the attached report presented by the Wellness Centre & Pool Committee at the December 15, 2020 Meeting of Council, and subject to ICIP funding approval, The Council for the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound approves the following recommendations:
1. That the YMCA property, as recommended by CS&P Architects be approved as the site;
2. That CS&P Architects Option A be approved for the purposes of designing and constructing the facility;
3. That the cost sharing formula be approved for the allocation of operating and capital costs;
4. That a Joint Municipal Service Board be used by the municipalities, for the purpose of acting as an agent on behalf of the Municipalities, in the constructing, maintaining, fundraising and operating of the West Parry Sound Area Recreation and Culture Centre; 5. That the Joint Municipal Service Board Agreement be approved, and the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute the agreement, substantially in the form attached;
6. That pending approval of the ICIP grant application the Steering Committee be directed to take the necessary steps to create the Joint Municipal Service Board;
7. That the Steering Committee be directed to enter into negotiations with the YMCA for the purposes of operating the facility; and
8. That the Steering Committee be directed to enter into negotiations with the YMCA to secure the approved site.
7-yes; 0-no – Carried Unanimously

9.5.2 – Request for Exemption from Noise Regulations By-law.
Resolution
Whereas Council has received a request per attached Schedule A for exemption from the Noise Regulations By-law 2009-5301; and
Whereas no concerns have been raised by Town staff with respect to the request for exemption, and
Whereas Ontario Regulation 131/20 filed April 7, 2020 and in effect for 18 months from date of filing, denies a municipality the power to prohibit and regulate noise with respect to construction activity in a municipality between the hours of 6 AM and 10 PM
Now Therefore the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound does hereby grant the applicant all requested exemptions from the Noise Regulations By-law 2009- 5301 per application attached as Schedule A.
Carried

By-laws
10.1.1 – Curbside Collection Contract Extension.
By-law 2020 – 7094
Being a bylaw to authorize the extension of an agreement with Waste Connections of Canada Inc. for curbside waste and recycling collection for two years, ending December 31, 2022.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.4.1 – 2021 Interim Tax Levy.
By-law 2020 – 7093
Being a By-Law to provide for an interim tax levy, for the payment of taxes, and for penalty and interest at 1 1/4 percent per month for the 2021 taxation year.
Passed, Signed & Sealed
Direction Approved for Staff Follow-up
That staff be directed to report back on the implications of waiving the 1-1/4% penalty under various options, i.e. over different number of months, etc.
Carried for staff follow-up.

Council Agenda Preview – December 15, 2020

12 Saturday Dec 2020

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It’s a packed agenda in terms of content. The agenda with attachments is 58 MB to download if you are interested in any of the particular items and the supporting documentation.
Well, there has been a cessation of boundary discussions between the Town of Parry Sound and Sequin Township at the direction of the Seguin Council (4.2). That still leaves Israel-Palestine, China-India, India-Pakistan, Turkey-Syria, and many other border disputes/discussions unresolved.
Winter Control Level of Service Policy (9.1.1) has been provided. This policy summarizes the priorities of the various roads in Town with respect to snow management. It’s a little bit misleading in that a Class 6 street might well be cleared before a Class 3 road (the lower the class the higher the priority – get it). It all depends on the equipment required. The higher class, lower priority, streets are often short cul de sacs that require a relatively small truck and blade and are quickly cleared while the lower class streets, think Bowes Street, require the largest machines and multiple passes.
The The 2019-2020 Annual Report (9.3.1) is out and probably will soon be found in your mailbox. Download the full agenda for an early read. Lots of images and self-congratulatory text. (Note to the report designer – the images are unattractively over saturated. Less is More.)
The Water & Wastewater Rate Study (4.1.1) has been issued in draft form for public review and comment. It looks like you have some more holiday reading.
The West Parry Sound Recreation & Culture Centre (9.5.1) is on the agenda with a request for approval to enter into further negotiations. This approval has the condition that no agreement is finalized before certain conditions are met. These conditions seem to include the agreement of the other area municipalities and upper tier government funding approval.

Those are my key takeaways from the agenda. I wish everyone a safe holiday season and may you be on Santa’s nice list for a COVID-19 vaccination. (With the exception of medical and related personnel I suspect we are lower on the list, which is actually a good thing for a number of reasons.)

Closed Session
c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board (developer request to purchase land from the Town; MTO offer to sell land to the Town)
e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board, (claim against Town funds)
k) a position, plan, procedure, criteria or instruction to be applied to any negotiations carried on or to be carried on by or on behalf of the municipality or local board, (claim against Town funds)

Correspondence
4.1 – Rick Kerr.
Request for amendment to Cemetery Regulations.

4.2 – Ann MacDiarmid, Mayor, Seguin Township.
Withdrawal from Boundary Adjustment Discussions.

4.3 – Aleesha Clark, Committee Chair, Absolutely Georgian Bay.
Introduction of Absolutely Georgian Bay Tourism Cooperative Inc.

Deputations
5.1 – Tom Parks, OHE Consultants.
Request for exemption from Noise Regulations for Jail Demolition [For Council’s determination by resolution].

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – Winter Control Level of Service Policy.
Resolution
That Council endorse and adopt the attached Winter Control Level of Service Policy for roads and sidewalks.

9.2.1 – Extension of Temporary Patio Permissions for Restaurants During COVID-19.
Resolution
Whereas on June 8, 2020 the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) permitted new patios or temporary additions to patios to provide more opportunities to local businesses while protecting health and safety, subject to municipal requirements, and provided an extension to these timelines on December 9, 2021; and
Whereas the Council for the Town of Parry Sound passed Resolution 2020-067 to permit temporary restaurant and bar patios and opted not to enforce the Zoning By-law or Site Plan Agreements as it related to parking infractions as a result of these patios until January 1, 2021; and
Whereas Covid-19 will be an issue affecting restaurants for the foreseeable future and the Town wishes to extend the timelines of this Resolution to be in tandem with the AGCO’s extension.
Now Therefore be it Resolved that the Council for the Town of Parry Sound supports an extension until January 1, 2022 to the terms noted in Resolution 2020-067.

9.2.2 – Consent Application B/45A&B/2020 – Macazer Holding.
Resolution
That Council of the Town of Parry Sound hereby supports Parry Sound Area Planning Board Application Number B45A&B/2020 – Macazer Holding.

9.3.1 – The 2019-2020 Annual Report.
Resolution
That Council receive the 2019-2020 Annual Report as attached, and direct staff to make copies of it available to the public and circulated to MP Scott Aitchison, MPP Norm Miller, the Downtown Business Association, the Chamber of Commerce and other agencies and organizations as appropriate.

9.4.1 – Water & Wastewater Rate Study.
Resolution
WHEREAS Council approved a change from the current water and wastewater rate structure to a rate structure with a monthly fixed charge, based on meter size, and a consumptive rate (per gallon/per cubic metre) that is uniform for all customers; and
WHEREAS pricing structure changes were deferred to investigate additional options;
NOW THEREFORE Council hereby approves the posting of the Town of Parry Sound Water and Wastewater Rate Study for public circulation and comment; and
THAT the Water Financial Plan be prepared in the format required under O.Reg. 453/07 and submitted to the Province to maintain the Town’s Municipal Drinking Water Licence; and further
THAT the recommended rates be brought forward for consideration.

9.5.1 – West Parry Sound Recreation & Culture Centre.
Resolution
Be it Resolved that subject to all area municipalities agreeing to participate as outlined in the attached report presented by the Wellness Centre & Pool Committee at the December 15, 2020 Meeting of Council, and subject to ICIP funding approval, The Council for the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound approves the following recommendations:
1. That the YMCA property, as recommended by CS&P Architects be approved as the site;
2. That CS&P Architects Option A be approved for the purposes of designing and constructing the facility;
3. That the cost sharing formula be approved for the allocation of operating and capital costs;
4. That a Joint Municipal Service Board be used by the municipalities, for the purpose of acting as an agent on behalf of the Municipalities, in the constructing, maintaining, fundraising and operating of the West Parry Sound Area Recreation and Culture Centre;
5. That the Joint Municipal Service Board Agreement be approved, and the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute the agreement, substantially in the form attached;
6. That pending approval of the ICIP grant application the Steering Committee be directed to take the necessary steps to create the Joint Municipal Service Board;
7. That the Steering Committee be directed to enter into negotiations with the YMCA for the purposes of operating the facility; and
8. That the Steering Committee be directed to enter into negotiations with the YMCA to secure the approved site.

By-laws
10.1.1 – Curbside Collection Contract Extension.
By-law 2020 – 7094
Being a bylaw to authorize the extension of an agreement with Waste Connections of Canada Inc. for curbside waste and recycling collection for two years, ending December 31, 2022.

10.4.1 – 2021 Interim Tax Levy.
By-law 2020 – 7093
Being a By-Law to provide for an interim tax levy, for the payment of taxes, and for penalty and interest at 1 1/4 percent per month for the 2021 taxation year.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – November 17, 2020

25 Wednesday Nov 2020

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Once again there are no real surprises with the exception perhaps of 7.1.1 which came out of the Closed Session (brief discussion follows). Those of you interested in the activity and plans for the Town of Parry Sound Downtown Business Association will appreciate the summary of their deputation, 5.1.

7.1.1 – Town Position on Parry Sound Public Library Building Ownership.
This is interesting because it suggests the Library Board had requested the Town to take over ownership and responsibility for the Library building. This is very understandable. There are a number of publicly funded services in Town that are only sufficiently resourced to support basic operational functions, not the care and maintenance of the associated building.
We have been reminded of the costs involved with the Town’s decision to spend more than $1 million on each of the Stockey Centre, the Bobby Orr Community Centre, and Big Sound Marina for only necessary infrastructure upgrades and repairs. This is in addition to about $400,000 annually in direct support for each of the Stockey Centre and Bobby Orr Community Centre to cover their losses on operations. In total this adds up to more than a million dollars annually to support these operations without the cost of facility maintenance and upgrades. And now the Town wants to build a new recreation facility, Da Pool, which will most likely add a half million dollars annually in additional operational expenses. And there will be carried expenses related to the construction.
This reminds me of a deadbeat father who supports his current family, is planning for his next family, and tells his ex and her children to support themselves.
Dear Town Leaders – You created it, you support it.

Closed Session
b) personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees, (staff member performance review).
c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land for municipal or local board purposes, (request for Town to take ownership of a property).
e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board, (claim against Town funds).
n) educating or training council members and no member discusses or otherwise deals with any matter in a way that materially advances the business or decision-making of Council, (Site Locations for Parry Sound Area Recreation Centre)

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiry regarding the storm this past Sunday, Director of Public Works Mike Kearns reported that there were some issues due to downed trees and power outages, and Lakeland Power changed a pole at the north end of Town due to damage; however given the nature of the strong storm surge, damage was relatively minimal.

3.2.2 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiry regarding the status of the installation of the railing on Cascade St. hill east of the tracks, Mr. Kearns reported that this work should be completed soon.

3.2.3 In response to Councillor Borneman’s inquiry on an update on the usage, revenues and costs associated with the reopening of the Bobby Orr Community Centre and the Stockey Centre, Director of Finance Stephanie Phillips said that a report would be forthcoming to the next Council Meeting and that the finances are on track with projections. CAO Clayton Harris also reported that the Senior Leadership Team will be meeting tomorrow to discuss how to respond if the province does issue further lock- down directives.

Correspondence
4.1 – Mackenzie Taylor, Deputy Clerk, Township of Carling.
Carling Township opposition to EMS Surplus Levy

4.2 – Mackenzie Taylor, Deputy Clerk, Township of Carling.
Future Special Meeting to be held to hear recommendations from Wellness Centre & Pool Committee after the grant has been determined.

4.3 – Rita Orr, CEO, Parry Sound Public Library.
Budget request of $211,150.00 for 2021.

4.4 – Parry Sound Affordable Housing Development Corporation.
Copy of letter to Parry Sound District Social Services Administration Board requesting that it continue to pay property taxes for the Housing Dev. Corporation’s properties if MPAC grants a tax exemption; and e-mail to the Town regarding current and proposed initiatives related to a seniors housing complex and purchase of a local motel to provide housing.

(Note – no indication was offered as to the action taken with respect to these Correspondence items.)

Deputations
5.1 – April Denman, Executive Director, Downtown Business Association; Amy Black, Chair Events Committee; Seanan Megyesi, Chair Marketing Committee; and Brenda Ryan, Chair Beautification Committee.
2020 Year in Review
DBA Executive Director April Denman addressed Council noting that this year is the 50th anniversary of Business Improvement Areas (BIAs) – a made in Ontario innovation, with 500 across Canada now, including 300 in Ontario. Ms. Denman expressed appreciation for the working relationship with the Town’s Public Works Director, Parks & Recreation Manager and their teams. The fundraising meter campaign raised $256.78 for each of RISE, The Salvation Army, Hope Pregnancy Centre, and the Mary St. Centre; and the recipients of the next parking meter fundraising campaign will be the Guides, Georgian Jumpers, Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, and Whispering River Orchestra. Ms. Denman introduced Committee Chairs and each spoke in turn.
Events Committee Chair and co-owner of Pardon My Garden Amy Black reported on two events held this year – Hallowe’en in the Downtown partnering with Parry Sound Public Library; and the Parry Sound Girlfriends weekend extended this year to a week- long event to accommodate spacing out of store visits, with 188 registrants so far, good feedback and a good base from which to build on again for next year.
Marketing Committee Chair and owner of Boston Pizza Seanan Meygesi reported that in light of the COVID pandemic, marketing was adjusted from a focus on events to highlighting local businesses, introducing the hashtag #localfirst and sharing members’ posts to expand local reach. Along with launch of a new website, the DBA created an instagram account making it easier to share news with 480 followers, and restructured twitter. “New Feature Fridays” are running on facebook telling background stories on new business owners and sharing members’ posts, with an increase of 25-30 followers a month since March. Going forward the DBA will work alongside the Events Committee to develop safe social distancing events that will continue to focus on shopping locally.
Chair of the Beautification Committee and owner of FAD Brenda Ryan reported that the Beautification Committee has almost completed its plan, implemented to meet the goal of creating an atmosphere that attracts more people to explore the downtown core. The following points were made by Ms. Ryan:
– The installation of 10 in-ground gardens – the biggest project is now complete. Logging 250 hours this year, 4 volunteers working Saturdays starting at 7 AM clean up the gardens, weed and dead-head. With the garden expansion program that also includes 2 “living room gardens” in the parking lot, the DBA is looking at having a more structured volunteer program assigning volunteers to certain gardens
– Continued with seasonal installation of the black planters in front of businesses.
– Removal of many of the overhanging metal signs, replaced by more quaint wooden carved blade signs projecting from businesses, making a more visually attractive and pedestrian-friendly feel. Businesses that didn’t get them this year are asking for them. 3- 4 signs are still to be installed at the Beatty building once their renovations have been completed.
– Trillium banners added to the collection, with the hope that banners will be installed all the way down Bay Street.
– Sidewalk cafes became more of a reality this year, with hopes that Council will support extending the patio season.
– Installed cigarette butt receptacles with good feedback received on these. – Plan to work over next years with building owners to improve facades.
– When veterans banners come down, Christmas decorations will go up, and a multi- year plan being developed for those.
– Lights installed in Jukes Lane.
– Appreciation extended to Town staff for helping, in particular April McNamara and Mike Kearns, as well as Mayor & Council for their support in transforming the downtown.

Ratification of Matters from Closed Agenda
7.1.1 – Town Position on Parry Sound Public Library Building Ownership.
Resolution
Be it resolved that Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound does hereby advise the Parry Sound Public Library Board, that the Town does not wish to own the Library Board’s building on Mary Street.
Carried

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – Letter of support to Ministry of Energy regarding net-metering.
Resolution
That as measure of the Town’s commitment to energy management, grid resilience and moving toward being a net-zero community, Council hereby authorizes the Mayor to sign the attached letter of support to the Ministry of Energy regarding net-metering in the Town of Parry Sound.
Carried

9.2.1 – Respond to Council Direction Regarding Payment of Cash-in-Lieu of Parking
Resolution
That, as a result of staff’s review as documented in the attached report, no changes will be made to the cash-in-lieu of parking policy/By-law.
Carried

By-laws
10.1.1 – Funding Agreement for Installation of Access Controls (Fobbing).
By-law 2020 – 7082
Being a by-law to authorize ratification of the execution of an agreement with PMCN for a Business Technology Improvement Grant for access controls (fobbing).
Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.4.1 – 2020 Debenture Capital Works – Waubeek & Isabella Streets.
By-law 2020 – 7083
Being a By-law to approve the submission of an application to Ontario Infrastructure and Lands Corporation (“OILC”) for the long-term financing of certain capital works (Isabella and Waubeek Streets) of The Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound (The “Municipality”); and to authorize the entering into of a rate offer letter agreement pursuant to which the municipality will issue debentures to OILC.

Council Agenda Preview – November 3, 2020

30 Friday Oct 2020

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It is a very light agenda this week. I hope that it is because Staff is focused on the 2021 budget. There is one interesting item on the agenda, a Letter, that I offer some thoughts on.

4.7 – Lawrence & Sandra Mulligan. Concerns regarding assessment, property taxes and trespassing on property.
This concerns a property that most folks would think is in McDougall but actually has a Town of Parry Sound municipal address, and carries town tax rates. It is the new building that is reached by following Oakridge Road South onto a gravel road that was built by the Mulligans. The property carries an assessment of $1.6 million and an annual tax bill of $25,000 despite having no town services. I think that MPAC has screwed up on the assessment and unless the Town decides to push MPAC to correct the issue the owners will be out of pocket for more than $100,000 before the next reassessment window opens.
I was involved in a similar situation a few years ago when another property owner received a smaller but similarly shocking assessment and tax bill. The Town was not too quick to act until an embarrassing mistake on their part related to the property came to light. With the threat of public disclosure of the mistake the Town and MPAC worked ‘very quickly’ to revise the assessment and tax bill to an appropriate amount. The Town initially tried to pin the mistake on others but I suspect they realized that public disclosure would be sufficiently embarrassing to obscure any value in finger pointing.
The problem here is not the value of the home, or even the amount of land involved. It is a landlocked property that is crossed by the Voldemort Trail (more on this later). It enjoys a beautiful Georgian Bay overlook, but it does not own the waterfront. The waterfront is owned by the Town of Parry Sound and is part of the North Shore Rugged Trail. If you have walked along the North Shore Rugged Trail you will recognize this stretch as where the quarry used to be. I suspect that MPAC assigned the value of the waterfront access to it. An undeveloped property right beside it with twice the area, 84 acres versus 35 acres, and a similar Georgian Bay overlook, carries an assessed value of $600,000. It also has lakefront access, albeit Strain Lake. In theory then the Mulligan property should have a value half of that, let’s say $300,000. Add in a nice cottage/house that is valued at $500,000 for the building, and you have a total assessed value of $800,000 or so, half of the current assessment. That still means a $12,000 annual tax bill that has no services (garbage, roads, hydrants, …), but it is much more reasonable.
About the Voldemort Trail, the trail that shall not be mentioned. It is not part of the Town’s trail system and runs through private property behind the Smelter Wharf, including the Mulligan property. The Town seems to believe that they have no responsibility for people’s use of the trail, and it ‘shall not be mentioned’. My questions were largely ignored three years ago when I asked why this trail, which is a very popular with people walking their dogs, wasn’t part of the official Trails Master Plan. Don’t Ask – Don’t Tell seems to have been the attitude.
The Voldemort Trail is a problem for the Town because of its popularity and high use. I suspect that the Town would like to provide formal access to it because of its popularity but it would need to buy land and then assume liability for claims arising from its use. I also suspect the people who own the land would like to swap trail land for certain Georgian Bay waterfront rights that are currently part of the North Shore Rugged Trail. A general agreement was reached a few years ago between the landowners and the Town to start discussions on how to develop this private property. Land with waterfront is much more valuable to both the landowners (selling price) and the Town (higher assessed values for waterfront properties).
Let’s see what develops. Without a push the Town will sit on its thumb. All they need to do is wander down to the MPAC office in the town’s building and suggest the assessment be revisited.
(This is why it’s worth reading each and every council meeting agenda. There is stuff mentioned that only becomes relevant months or years later.)

Closed Session
c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board, (developer interest in municipal property purchase)

Correspondence
4.1 – Brenda Paul, Clerk, Township of Machar.
Concerns regarding permanent closure of Drive Test Centre in Sundridge.

4.2 – Don McArthur, Clerk, South River.
Concerns regarding permanent closure of Drive Test Centre in Sundridge.

4.3 – William Patterson, Director, Near North Crime Stoppers.
Request to proclaim January, 2021 as Crime Stoppers Month.

4.4 – Canadian Centre for Women s Empowerment.
Request to proclaim November 26, 2020 as Day of Recognition for Survivors of Financial Abuse and Economic Injustice

4.5 – Jason Predie, Parry Sound EMS.
Request for monetary donation towards 2020 Toy/Food Drive.

4.6 – Chris Pettinger, Co-Founder Trestle Brewing Company Limited.
Request for Town support permitting patio extensions beyond January 1, 2021.

4.7 – Lawrence & Sandra Mulligan.
Concerns regarding assessment, property taxes and trespassing on property.

Deputations
5.1 – Nick Ryeland, Peter Searle, Executive Director, Park to Park Trail Association.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways.
Resolution
That Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound receive the attached report on Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways for information purposes.

9.2.1 – Consent Application B/37/20 (PS) – (Kingshott/Crookshank-Hurd).
Resolution
That B37/2020 (88 and 94 Louisa Street) – Kingshott/Crookshank-Hurd, be supported subject to:
1. The payment of cash-in-lieu of parkland for the two newly created lots;
2. That the severance lot lines be reconfigured to ensure that the entirety of the ROW is on the Retained parcels;
3. That the existing 51(26) agreement apply to the newly severed lots as well as the retained lots;
4. That the lands be rezoned to ensure compliance with  theZoning By-law; and
5. That a scoped report be required to ensure the proposal complies with Section 4.5 of the Town’s Official Plan.

9.5.1 – Canadian Centre For Women’s Empowerment request for proclamation.
Resolution
Whereas economic abuse is a deliberate pattern of control in which individuals interfere with their partner’s ability to acquire, use, and maintain economic resources; and
Whereas a lack of access to economic resources undermines a woman’s independence and agency, such as limiting her access to social support services, undermining mental well-being and exacerbating other risk factors contributing to poverty and other forms of marginalization affecting women; and
Whereas each day in Canada, approximately 51% of women staying in shelters for women and children report experiencing financial abuse, economic abuse is a seldom- talked about yet prevalent issue faced by survivors of domestic violence in Canada; and
Whereas economic abuse has happened to many generations of Canadian women and continues to happen regardless of socio-economic status, race, age or other identity factors; and
Whereas it is of utmost importance that government, at all levels, take action to protect victims and support survivors of economic abuse;
Now Therefore Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound does hereby authorize the Mayor to proclaim November 26, 2020 as “The Day of Recognition for Survivors of Financial Abuse and Economic Injustice” in the Town of Parry Sound.

9.5.2 – Proclamation of January, 2021 as Crime Stoppers Month.
Resolution
Whereas Crime Stoppers, an internationally recognized program, is a partnership of the public, the police and the media providing citizens with a proactive program to anonymously assist our police partners in the solving of crime, contributing to an improved quality of life in our communities and
Whereas since inception, anonymous calls to Near North CRIME STOPPERS have assisted the Police and other investigative agencies in making 1,715 arrests, recovering stolen property valued at over $4 million and seizing almost $52 million in illegal drugs;
Now Therefore Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound hereby authorizes the Mayor to declare January 2021 as Crime Stoppers Month in the Town of Parry Sound.

By-laws
None