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Council Minutes (Abridged) – April 20, 2021

24 Saturday Apr 2021

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There were a large number of items brought before Council as letters, deputations, resolutions and by-laws. It’s worth scanning through the abridged minutes below to understand what was asked and what was decided. None of it was controversial in my opinion.

5.2 – David Sweetnam, Georgian Bay Forever; Rupert Kindersley, Georgian Bay Assn. Results of Water Levels Web Symposium, October, 2020.
The deputation summary is worth reviewing below if you want to get a better idea of where the experts think water levels are headed. Spoiler – it’s up, up and away.

Council Minutes (Abridged)

Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest
1.4.1 – Councillor Horne Declared Pecuniary Interest on item 9.5.1 being the resolution proclaiming May as Community Living Month in Parry Sound, as Community Living Parry Sound is his employer. Councillor Horne left the meeting for the duration of the item, did not participate in discussion, nor vote on the matter.

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiry regarding the potential for installation of a security camera at the skateboard park to deal with vandalism, Director of Public Works Mike Kearns reported that while there is currently no such plan for that location, he would investigate further on potential for installation of security cameras and/or lights as a means of addressing the problem.
Mayor McGarvey obtained Council’s approval to direct Mr. Kearns to get costing for this proposal.

3.2.2 – Mr. Kearns responded to Councillor Keith’s inquiry confirming that the Recreation Department puts together an annual maintenance plan and that with the early spring, they expect to be ahead of schedule. Mr. Kearns also noted that while the Champaign St and Waubuno Beach boat launches are open the Salt Dock ramp sustained damage and it will take longer to determine what work needs to be done and how to do it, as the damaged area is in the water.

3.2.3 – Mr. Kearns also responded to Councillor Keith that with respect to staffing, the vacancy in Public Works will be filled shortly, and summer student positions are still in the budget projections although given recent renewed COVID restrictions, hiring has not yet proceeded. CAO Clayton Harris added that summer student hiring at the Stockey Centre is reduced due to lockdown and reduced hours.

3.2.4 – In response to Councillor Borneman’s inquiry, Mayor McGarvey reported that more information is flowing from the Board of Health which he passes on to WPS Area heads of Council, and that there is good attendance at the bi-weekly municipal meetings. Unfortunately, the Board of Health has still declined to report statistics broken down between the east and west sides of the District.

3.2.5 – In response to Councillor Backman’s inquiry regarding assurance that any increases in infrastructure construction costs as a result of supply chain interruptions caused by COVID are reviewed by staff and included in the budget, CAO Clayton Harris reported that generally projects are tendered or go out through an RFP process to get the lowest responsible bid for a job. If the lowest qualified bidder is higher than the budget, staff can consider either scoping back on the work envisioned, or if not possible, come back to Council to request approval for additional funding.

Correspondence
4.1 – Resolutions of Support to prioritize Vaccine Allocation for areas in Phase I.
Lori West, Clerk/Planner, Municipality of McDougall Judith Meyntz, Deputy Clerk, Municipality of Whitestone Jenn Montreuil, Deputy City Clerk, City of North Bay Beth Morton, Clerk-Administrator, Township of Perry Mackenzie Taylor, Deputy Clerk, Township of Carling Andrea Spinney, Deputy Clerk, Township of Seguin Caitlin Haggart, Clerk-Administrator, Township of Strong
Filed

4.2 – Vic Fedeli, MPP.
Response to Vaccine Prioritization Request received from City of North Bay.
Filed

4.3 – Andrea Spinney, Deputy Clerk, Township of Seguin.
Support for appointment of Jamie McGarvey to the Board of Health.
Filed

4.4 – Joanne Demick, Executive Director, Community Living Parry Sound.
Request for Proclamation of May as Community Living Month .
Under flag policy, administrative approval given to the flag flying request; proclamation covered by item 9.5.1.

4.5 – Julie Chiaramonte, Kerri Mutrie, Patricia Hume, Andrea McIntyre, Pat Mastrocola, Barbara Morgan, George & Alice Reed, Susan Beal, Carol Rice, Michael Walton, Susan Ferguson, Gloria Koslowski, Steven Smith.
Individual letters of the same text supporting Council’s position to deny construction of a vehicle bridge over the Fitness Trail.
Filed

4.6 – Simon Fecteau, Director of Education, Conseil scolaire public du Nord-Est de l’Ontario.
Request for support letter for capital funding submission to Ministry of Education to acquire or build the French school Quatre-Vents.
Covered by item 9.5.2

Deputations
5.1 – Greg Mason, General Manager, Georgian Bay Biosphere.
Community Nominated Priority Places Project.
Greg Mason addressed Council from a prepared presentation, as circulated with the Agenda. Mr. Mason noted that the Community Nominated Priority Places Project is a program that has been running for two years and is set to run for another two, in cooperation with a number of municipalities and organizations along the Georgian Bay coast. The program is funded over 4 years through $2 million federally with matching $2 million raised through other organizations.
Mr. Mason noted the main goals of the program are: to accelerate knowledge generation and collective decision-making for Species at Risk; and to work together for priority ecosystems for biodiversity protection, habitat connectivity, and greater resilience.
Co-applicants in addition to GBB, are Magnetawan First Nation, Shawanaga First Nation and Georgian Bay Land Trust, with upwards of 30 additional partners to the project. The project is overseen by a Steering and Lands Committee composed of the co-applicants, and incorporates traditional ecological knowledge, and truth and reconciliation training. At a core the project seeks to provide adequate information on the locations where there is the greatest threat to species at risk, to prioritize resources to specific regions, as opposed to broad-brush support.
Mr. Mason gave an example of a road ecology project in 2020 whereby turtle nests were removed prior to road work, and the eggs incubated over the summer with about 1000 turtles later released. This was both a successful conservation effort, and cost effective for the municipality, as it did not have to put up permanent fencing estimated at $30,000 to $40,000.
Other means of gathering data to support effective decision making include the app that can be downloaded for people to submit their species observations; and the seven MOTUS Telemetry Arrays installed on the coast to monitor bird, bat and other avian species.
Mr. Mason concluded with notice of opportunities for municipal engagement including road management and ecology approaches; planning policy and process review; education outreach; and cultural and cross-government learning.

5.2 – David Sweetnam, Georgian Bay Forever; Rupert Kindersley, Georgian Bay Assn.
Results of Water Levels Web Symposium, October, 2020.
David Sweetnam and Rupert Kindersley, Executive Directors of Georgian Bay Forever and Georgian Bay Association respectively, addressed Council from a prepared presentation as circulated with the Agenda regarding results of Great Lakes Water Levels Web Symposium held in October 2020.
Key take-aways from the 2020 Symposium include the following:
1. Current management of the Great Lakes system is not deficient, including Plan 2012 which had seen Lake Superior as relatively higher than Lakes Michigan-Huron and had generally attempted to increase flows, though barely and with variability. Since April 2018 the balancing factor has been trying to decrease flows from Lake Superior to Lakes Michigan-Huron. The historic range of water level fluctuations on Lake Michigan- Huron (M-H) is so much higher than the range on Lake Superior (LS) since LS is 39.1% of the surface area of its watershed, whereas M-H is only 31.8% of the surface area of its watershed. M-H watershed is 197% the size of LS watershed. Additionally, M-H receives all upstream inputs from Lake Superior.
2. The solution to extreme water levels does not lie with improved management of the current system.
3. International Joint Commission has no power itself to implement any action.
4. Release of a key research study by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) which identifies that the components method and residuals method used to calculate net basin supply are not “in conflict” – they are measurements used for different purposes and are accurate given current tools available. The Large Lake Statistical Water Balance Model (LLSWBM) reconciles discrepancies between components and residuals methods.
5. Action on specific improvements to the quality and content of water levels data and modelling.
6. Revisit the formation of a Great Lakes Water Levels Advisory body.
With respect to what municipal governments should consider and do, Messrs. Sweetnam and Kindersley advised that:
– it is expected that extreme high water levels could be as much 3 feet higher than the last extreme high by the year 2100, gradually increasing over the next 80 years; and conversely extreme low water levels are only expected to be lower by around 4 inches.
– Wave action, run-up, pluvial and fluvial flooding must be considered.
– Therefore, given the uncertainty for planning purposes, consider raising the high-water mark accordingly to 178.4 meters (585 feet) above sea level, or plan to increase it in increments.
– When making investment decisions on docks, coastal roads/infrastructure, boat launches etc. plan for this expanded range of water levels.
– Primary issue will be ensuring environmental protection at residences – setbacks only effective if high water level is correct.
– The highest impact will be on: septic systems, docks, boat houses and low elevation shoreline structures.

5.3 – Lee-Ann Turner
Request for Town’s Permanent Endorsement to fly Pride Flag annually.
Lee-Ann Turner thanked Council for its approval to fly the Pride Flag for the month of June last year and requested that this year and every year thereafter Parry Sound purchase and fly the Pride during the month of June without requirement for an annual request.
Ms. Turner gave a brief outline of the Pride movement, noted that federally, provincially, and in many municipalities in Ontario, June is dedicated to Pride month as a matter of corporate cultural policy. Ms. Turner suggested that Parry Sound’s commitment to annually flying the flag would send a positive message about the community and so concluded with the request that Town Council commit to June every year as Pride month, purchase the Pride flag and fly it during that month.
Mayor McGarvey obtained Council agreement to have something brought to the next Council meeting to address this.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – 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

9.1.2 – Sail Parry Sound Funding Request for the Rotary Sunset Trail.
Resolution
WHEREAS the Town has received a request from Sail Parry Sound for $20,000 for the remediation of the erosion on the Rotary Sunset Trail;
WHEREAS the Rotary Sunset Trail is on the lands leased from the Town by Sail Parry Sound;
WHEREAS the Town of Parry Sound leases the property to Sail Parry Sound for a nominal amount and Sail Parry Sound does not pay property taxes on the leased land;
WHEREAS the lease agreement states that Sail Parry Sound is responsible for the maintenance and repairs of the property;
WHEREAS there is a concern that a reconstruction of the trail, rather than remediation is required, involving proper engineering design and construction to complete a safe and lasting trail at a cost greater than the $20,000 estimate provided;
WHEREAS the scope of work has not been clearly defined;
Whereas it is unclear if there are other funding partners, such as Sail Parry Sound, the Rotary Club, etc.; and
WHEREAS the Town has an interest in supporting some reconstruction of the trail, subject to a detailed proposal being provided.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Council requests that Sail Parry Sound submit a proposal setting out the work to be done, identify funding from all sources and indicate their intention at the end of the current lease; and further
THAT Council approves the reallocation of up to $20,000 of unassigned funds from the Federal Gas Tax Reserve Fund to the Rotary Sunset Trail rehabilitation; and further
THAT the actual amount of funds to be committed to the project will be subject to the receipt of the above information to the satisfaction of Council.
Carried

9.1.3 – Additional funding for external resources to support and move the recreation and culture centre project forward.
Resolution

Whereas the Optimist Club donated $40,000 to the Town of Parry Sound in 1994 for use towards a recreation centre;
Whereas the Town is the lead applicant in a joint ICIP application on behalf of 7 municipalities and 2 First Nation communities for a recreation and culture centre;

Whereas the timing to address questions/concerns raised during the process and to confirm the support of all partners is critical;
Whereas there is a need to engage external resources in the process;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Council authorizes staff to utilize the funds donated by the Optimist Club for the purposes of retaining external resources in support of the recreation and culture project.
Carried
CAO Clayton Harris confirmed in response to an inquiry that the current Optimist Club Executive can be contacted to advise them that the money from the 1994 donation is being allocated and spent for its intended purpose.

9.2.1 – 2020 Financial Year End Audit Planning Report.
BDO Engagement Partner and Michelle Yin addressed Council from a prepared presentation that was circulated with the Council agenda. Ms. Bodkin provided an executive summary identifying issues of
materiality (i.e., based on revenues of $690,000 for the year ended December 31, 2020);
timeline (most work to be done in May 2021 with a report back to Council);
fees ($31,500);
and audit risks in the areas of management override of controls,
revenue recognition (i.e., fraud risk),
purchases cut-off (i.e. items after year end and assurance that payables are accrued),
contaminated sites,
and contributed infrastructure assets.
Ms. Bodkin asked if Council was aware of any fraud or had concerns they wanted brought up to the auditor. If any, Ms. Bodkin said that information might change the audit approach, i.e., extra testing in that area. No member of Council brought forward any concern.
Resolution
That Council receive the Auditor’s 2020 Financial Year End Audit Planning Report as presented by Giselle Bodkin, BDO Engagement Partner.
Carried

9.3.1 – 2020 Annual Report – Closure Monitoring Program MacFarlane St. Landfill Site.
Resolution
That Council receive the 2020 Annual Report – Closure Monitoring Program MacFarlane St. Landfill Site for information purposes.
Carried

9.4.1 – Consent Application – B12/2021 (TPS) (Halvorson)
Resolution
That Consent Application No. B12/2021 (TPS) (Halvorson), be supported.
Carried

9.4.2 – Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/20/02 – Oastler Park Dive (John Jackson Planner Inc. on Behalf of Waltmar Inc.).
Resolution
That a decision on Z/20/02 – Oastler Park Dive (John Jackson Planner Inc. on Behalf of Waltmar Inc.) be deferred as it is premature.
Carried

9.5.1 – Declaration of May, 2021 as Community Living Month in Parry Sound.
Resolution
WHEREAS Community Living Parry Sound has worked to bring people and their communities together for over 58 years; and
WHEREAS Community Living Parry Sound supports people as they develop their capacity to live, learn, work and participate in all aspects of living in the community; and
WHEREAS Community Living Parry Sound helps the community develop its capacity to welcome and support people who have not always had the same opportunities as the rest of us, to participate in their community in meaningful, productive ways; and
WHEREAS the Council of the Town of Parry Sound wishes to urge its citizens to celebrate the inclusion in our community of people who have a developmental disability.
NOW, Therefore Be It Resolved that Mayor and Council declare the month of May Community Living Month in the Town of Parry Sound.
Carried

9.5.2 – Letter of Support for Conseil scolaire public du Nord-Est de l’Ontario.
Resolution
THAT Council authorizes the Mayor to sign a letter of support for the Conseil scolaire public du Nord-Est de l’Ontario with respect to its capital funding submission to the Ministry of Education to acquire or build a school for Quatre-Vents in Parry Sound.
Carried
CAO Clayton Harris confirmed in response to Councillor Backman’s inquiry, that the School Board rep could be invited to address Council in a meeting to provide an update on the High School reconstruction status.

By-laws
10.1.1 – Lease Agreement with The Festival of the Sound for use of the Stockey Centre.
By-law 2021 – 7122
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of a five-year renewal agreement with the Festival of the Sound for lease of the Charles W. Stockey Centre.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.2.1 – 2021 Budget.
By-law 2021 – 7119
Being a By-law to Adopt the Operating and Capital Budget Estimated for the Year 2021.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.4.1 – License of Occupation Parry Sound Cruise Line.
By-law 2021 – 7120
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of a License of Occupation with Parry Sound Cruise Line for the use of the dock at LT 6-21 PL 154; PARRY SOUND.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.4.2 – Chantler Barging Lease.
By-law 2021 – 7121
Being a By-law to authorize the execution a Lease with Chantler Barging Ltd for the use of the property identified as Lot 2 Plan 155 being Part on Plan 42R9587, Lot 3 Plan 166, Lot 4 Plan 166 all in the Town of Parry Sound.
Passed, Signed & Sealed

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.

The Town of Parry Sound Water Report – WTF?

29 Tuesday Dec 2020

Posted by in Parry Sound, Reflections

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I opened the Town’s recently issued water report prepared by Watson & Associates Economists Ltd. to review it and take notes. It all started reasonably and then I hit page 2.1. (The report can be downloaded from the Town’s website through this link.) That’s where the WTF reaction arose.

The report states that there are currently 2,346 customers for water and 2,273 for wastewater services. Okay, that seems reasonable, the consultants have the Town’s account numbers. The report goes on to assume there will be a total of 30 new customers (three new accounts per year) for water and wastewater services over the period 2020 to 2030. I take this to mean from the beginning of 2020 to the end of 2029, a ten-year period. This is an increase of 1.3% over ten years. Water consumption is expected to increase by 0.7%.

How do you assume only 30 total new water customers when house conversions to multiple units are ongoing, the Lighthouse development will be coming on line, as will Thunder Creek? These two developments will create dozens of new accounts. There is also the Acorn Ridge development on Louisa Street with potentially hundreds of new accounts that is on the back burner for now but is more than likely to arrive in the next decade given the demand for housing in the Town and the willingness of people to pay whatever it costs to get out of the Big Smoke and retain the luxury of high speed internet without worrying about wells and septic systems.

What about the new Recreation Centre? Will they be filling the pool with water pumped directly out of the Big Sound?

The report states that it is presenting a ‘conservative’ forecast. There is ‘conservative’ and there is ‘sandbagging’. Town staff are pretty experienced at sandbagging. I see it regularly in the annual budgets and largely ignore it as it is not too egregious and there is no ulterior motive. If you put a budget item in at a higher cost than you actually expect to pay you are a hero for the savings. At the same time these ‘extra’ funds are now available to pay for other items that Council was not willing to consider because of the expense, or the savings can cover other items where there was an error made by underestimating a cost. Sandbagging is not hard to identify if you know what you are looking for.

It seems that in the case of the Water Report the sandbagging is being done to rationalize higher water rates. The largest part of water and wastewater costs are not related to the cost of purifying and pumping water or processing wastewater before discharge, it is related to the cost of building and maintaining the supporting infrastructure. This includes things like upgrading and servicing pumping stations, replacing pipe, and installing new pipe. With no growth in customers and water use there is no need for additional water related infrastructure; you take a maintain and upgrade only when necessary approach.

I have put off reading the cost and revenue estimates provided in the report pending an answer from the Town about the growth rate presented in the report. Once I have an explanation, I will take another look at the report and provide you with an overview of the report, the conclusions, and the implications. That won’t be until the ‘holiday week’ is over and Staff is available.

Do we need an economic development officer to get a total of 1% growth over ten years? Do we need a fulltime Chief Building Officer if there is no significant construction expected? What about a Planner?

Come on folks, was Staff unable to identify the discrepancy or did they actually request it? The Town would have seen and commented on the report before it was issued. Consultants know what they are doing. Forecasting a smaller than realistic growth in water accounts has the net effect of raising the rates the Town charges each of us for water and wastewater. It’s only a few percent points difference but it is meaningful. Screwing around with your assumptions to get the number you want is deceitful and ruins your credibility. Keep your assumptions realistic and be direct with the cost that will be required. Don’t sandbag it. Or if you do want to really lowball the numbers then state that in the assumptions. Don’t call it ‘conservative’.

Oh, in case you were wondering, WTF means What the Forecast.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – December 1, 2020

05 Saturday Dec 2020

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There are a large number of items contained in this week’s Town of Parry Sound council meeting minutes. None are a surprise. It’s worth taking a quick scan of the items to keep yourself up-to-date and avoid any future surprises. I try and limit my comments to the agenda preview except where a new item of interest is introduced. Once Council makes a decision, Resolution or By-law, it will be a challenge to get it amended or reversed. That’s why attention should be paid to the agenda, rather than the minutes. It’s much easier to head off bad ideas than correct them later.

Abridged Minutes

Closed Meeting
i) a trade secret or scientific, technical, commercial, financial or labour relations information, supplied in confidence to the municipality or local board, which, if disclosed, could reasonably be expected to prejudice significantly the competitive position or interfere significantly with the contractual or other negotiations of a person, group of persons, or organization, (EMS Human Resources issue)
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, (EMS Contract)

Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof
1.4.1 – Cllr. Horne declared Pecuniary Interest on item 9.2.2 – 2021 Land Ambulance Budget as his spouse who is CFO of the West Parry Sound Health Centre is directly involved in the 2021 Land Ambulance 2021 Budget process. During the item, Councillor Horne left the room, did not participate in discussion nor vote on the resolution.

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – In response to Mayor McGarvey’s inquiry regarding the Christmas and Toy Food Drive, Fire Chief Dave Thompson reported that the Fire Department’s food drive usually conducted door to door, will instead this year be done by soliciting donations at numerous locations in Town this Saturday. The EMS Toy Drive is also being modified this year; donors are encouraged to send cheques to the EMS Base at 99 Bowes Street, or submit e-transfer to e-mail address psemstoydrive@gmail.com
Financial donations are spent locally to purchase toys.

3.2.2 – In response to Councillor McCann’s inquiry regarding a ratepayer’s concern about a notice received regarding parking on the lawn, Mr. Thompson reported that one of the major complaints the By-law Enforcement Department receives deals with clean yards, particularly front yards, and vehicle parking thereon. The zoning by-law governs parking including that of licensed and unlicensed vehicles, recreational vehicles, etc. The By-law Enforcement Department’s approach is to contact people who are mis- parking to educate them on options and opportunities to come into compliance with the By-law. The By-law Enforcement Department enforces both the Property Standards and Clean Yards By-laws as set by Council from both a pro-active and reactive approach. Council can change the by-laws to address different issues if it wishes.

3.2.3 – In response to Councillor Backman’s inquiry on whether there has been an increase in parking violations on properties as a result of the zoning by-law amendment recently passed permitting additional units, Mr. Thompson reported that they have not seen a direct relationship. Generally parking issues are related to funny shaped lots, small driveways, small side yards, etc.

3.2.4 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiry regarding the response to snowfall today and the seasonal lights up on Town property, Director of Public Works Mike Kearns confirmed that plowing operations went well in today’s first major snow fall and that it was indeed Town staff who put up lights on the evergreen trees at the Town office and at Market Square Park.

Correspondence
4.1 – Nick Ryeland, Park to Park Trail.
2020 Funding Request
Referred to Director of Financial Services

4.2 – Beth Morton, Clerk-Administrator, Township of Perry.
Opposition to Closure of Drive Test Centre in Sundridge.
Filed

4.3 – Minister Cho, Ministry of Seniors & Accessibility.
Response to request for extension of Website compliance deadline.
Filed

4.4 – Hanif Datoo.
Request for winter maintenance Geewadin Road extension.
Referred to Director of Public Works for research and response

4.5 – Parry Sound Affordable Housing Development Corporation.
Support request for PSAHDC’s outreach to increase affordable housing.
Referred to item 9.3.1

Deputations
5.1 – David Bywater, Benjamin John, Georgian Bay Biosphere.
ICECAP (Integrated Community Energy and Climate Action Plans) Progress Report.
From a prepared power point presentation, Mr. Bywater and Mr. John addressed Council with respect to progress that the ICECAP Regional partnership made in 2020 and plans for 2021, noting the following:
– The partnership is a regional approach with identified current members, potential members and community partners.
– Of the five milestones identified by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) Partners for Climate Protection program, the first milestone to establish a baseline greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions inventory and forecast has been completed for both the community and municipal operations.
– highlights of 2020 included launching the “carbon calculator”, conducting webinars, studies, writing articles, and within the community assessment – including recreational vehicle emissions – the first communities in Canada to be including this category which is getting attention from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) and federal partners.
– Corporate (i.e. the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound) baseline GHG emissions data was collected for transportation, buildings, streetlights, solid waste and water & wastewater with three major areas of GHG emissions being buildings, fleet, and water/wastewater infrastructure.
– combined numbers produced a baseline at year 2016 upon which to compare in future; if operations continue “business as usual”, the GHG emissions are anticipated to rise 12% by 2030; financial costs associated can also be expected to rise.
– the next milestone in the ICECAP program includes setting a target reduction rate.
– although a more complex task, similar data analysis was done for the broader community which shows community transportation produces the most GHG emissions, specifically from vehicles on the road, followed by commercial, institutional and residential sectors with values typical of an urban-rural community like Parry Sound.
– Combined numbers for the community also produced a baseline at year 2016, with a business as usual forecast of 11.8% increase in year 2030.
– The proposed 2021 workplan includes three program areas: ICECAP Regional Activities; Milestones 2 & 3 of the Municipalities Partners for Climate Protection Program; and First Nations Climate Action. Milestones 2 and 3 represent a significant body of work in setting corporate and community reduction targets and establishing a climate change action plan.
– In order to undertake the 2021 workplan, $14,500 is requested per municipal member which for Parry Sound represents 13.5% of the 2021 budget, with other funding coming from other ICECAP members, Georgian Bay Biosphere and other funding sources.

5.2 – Nadine Hammond, Curator/Manager, Rob Wood, Board Chair Museum on Tower Hill.
2021 Funding Request and 2020 Annual Report .
Ms. Hammond addressed Council with respect to a review of last year’s operations, including the following:
– March sprinkler system froze and burst causing water damage in the hallway; the company who repaired it also donated materials and services to repair exterior siding, seal off the attic from rodents and replace insulation.
– COVID altered how the public was able to access the museum spaces which reduced revenues from admissions and gift shop sales.
– Over 15 groups to date have experienced a new exhibit – the Adam Brown adventure, sponsored by Team Marshall and Georgian Bay Software – which has received positive feedback.
– Genealogy group continues to meet monthly.
– “Giving Tuesday” today raised $6,000 well in excess of the $1,000 goal with Sobey’s matching donations up to $500.00.
– Next year plans including fixing ageing building, opening new train exhibit, Trappers Cabin, launching a docent program to provide tours of the exhibition and launching new digital content.
Mr. Wood addressed Council commending Ms. Hammond’s work, committing the Board to supporting her work in 2021, and inviting members of Council to experience the Adam Brown Adventure at the Museum.
In response to Council questions about the financial state of the Museum, Ms. Hammond reported that the museum was not able in 2020 to generate the funds it normally does, because of COVID restrictions; museums are typically underfunded federally and provincially; available funding is often specific to programming and the challenge the Museum is facing is to fund basic building maintenance shortfall.
Mayor McGarvey noted that the Museum’s funding request would be part of the Town’s budget process.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – Waste Diversion and Transition Legislation Comments.
Resolution
That Council receive the Report attached as Schedule A regarding waste diversion and transition legislation and direct staff to provide comments consistent with the Report, on the proposed legislation as listed in the Environmental Registry as – ERO number 019- 2579 prior to the December 3, 2020 deadline.
Carried

9.2.1 – Building Permit Software.
Resolution
That Council accepts the proposal from Evolta Software Inc. for e-permitting (building permit) software (“Cloudpermit”) and authorizes staff to enter into an e-permit Service Agreement with Evolta Software Inc.
Carried

9.2.2 – 2021 Land Ambulance Budget.
Resolution
That upon the recommendation of the EMS Advisory Committee the 2021 Land Ambulance Operating Budget be approved with a 4.85% levy increase over the 2020 approved budget in a total amount of $9,986,873; and
That a Land Ambulance Capital Budget be approved in the amount of $460,000 to be funded from the EMS Capital Reserve Fund.
Carried

9.2.3 – Sign Variance – 1 Pine Drive – 2020.
Resolution
That Council authorizes and directs the Chief Building Official to issue a permit for 4 signs on the site of 1 Pine Drive pursuant to the variances and permissions attached as Schedule A.
Carried

9.3.1 – Support for Parry Sound Affordable Housing Development Corporation.
Resolution.
Whereas the Parry Sound Affordable Housing Development Corporation has submitted a letter and would appreciate support from the Town of Parry Sound in their efforts to increase the number of affordable housing units serving West Parry Sound; and
Whereas there is an ongoing demand for affordable housing units in Parry Sound and the surrounding area; and
Whereas the Parry Sound Affordable Housing Development Corporation works in partnership with many organizations to increase the number of affordable housing units to serve Parry Sound, and
Whereas the Parry Sound Affordable Housing Development Corporation commits that neither it nor its successor organization(s) will seek an exemption from property taxes under the Assessment Act,
Now Therefore the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound does hereby support the Parry Sound Affordable Housing Development Corporation’s efforts in search of opportunities to increase the number of affordable housing units to serve Parry Sound.
Carried

9.3.2 – Xplornet’s proposal to the Province under the Improving Connectivity for Ontario (ICON) program.
Resolution
Whereas Xplornet has requested support from the Town of Parry Sound for their submission to the Province under the Improving Connectivity for Ontario (ICON) program, and
Whereas the past months have demonstrated the importance of connectivity, especially for the more rural areas of Ontario, and
Whereas the post-pandemic recovery offers the opportunity to provide the necessary tools for rural Ontario’s success in the digital economy, including education through virtual learning, eHealth, economic development and by supporting residents working from home, and
Whereas Xplornet’s project will build 2,650 km of new fibre across the province, providing direct fibre connections in the rural areas of Parry Sound, including the connection of 1 new macro tower site and 1 new wireless microsite to fibre in Town,
Now Therefore the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound does hereby support Xplornet’s proposal to the Province under the Improving Connectivity for Ontario (ICON) program.
Carried

9.4.1 – Financial Variance Report for Third Quarter of 2020.
Resolution
That Council hereby receives and accepts the variance report for the Third Quarter of 2020 (September 30, 2020); and
That Council hereby approves the expenses for Council members for the period from January 1, 2020 to September 30, 2020.
Carried

9.4.2 – RFP – General Insurance and Risk Management Services.
Resolution
That Council accept and award the proposal for the Corporation’s general insurance and risk management services to BFL Canada, including Wharfingers/Terminal Operators insurance, at the premium cost of $451,169 plus sales tax for the one-year period ending December 15, 2021; and
That staff be authorized to negotiate and award other coverages up to a value of $16,295 plus sales tax.
Carried

By-laws
10.1.1 – Community Sharps Bin – Agreement North Bay-Parry Sound District Health Unit.
By-law 2020 – 7090
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of an agreement with the North Bay-Parry Sound District Health Unit for a Community Sharps Bin Program.
Passed, Signed and Sealed

10.2.1 – Appoint a Chief Building Official and Amend other building official appointments.
By-law 2020 – 7085
Being a By-law to Appoint Mark Vandermeer as Chief Building Official and amend or revoke other related Building Official Appointment By-laws.
Passed, Signed and Sealed
Mayor McGarvey remarked upon just deputized John Este’s coming retirement and welcomed Mark Vandermeer to the role of CBO and employment with the Town.

10.2.2 – EMS Lease of a portion of the Humphrey Fire Hall.
By-law 2020 – 7086
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of an agreement with the Township of Seguin for the lease of a portion of the Humphrey Fire Hall for an EMS Base.
Passed, Signed and Sealed

10.2.3 – Big Sound Marina Breakwater and Dock C contract execution.
By-law 2020 – 7087
Being a bylaw to authorize the execution of a contract with Kropf Industrial Inc for the replacement of the Breakwater and Dock C at the Big Sound Marina.
Passed, Signed and Sealed

10.3.1 – Return of Financial Donation to Phil Morse for Outdoor Rink Project.
By-law 2020 – 7091
Being a By-law to Authorize the Return of a Donation to Phil Morse.
Passed, Signed and Sealed

10.4.1 – Commencement of Fees and Charges for Servicing Dennis & Macklaim Drive.
By-law 2020 – 7088
Being a By-law to impose fees/charges for the recovery of the cost of capital works within portions of Plan M405 (Servicing Dennis and Macklaim Drive).
Passed, Signed and Sealed

10.4.2 – Intermunicipal tax roll agreements with Whitestone, Magnetawan, Strong, and Armour.
By-Law 2020 – 7089
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of four intermunicipal tax roll agreements with: the Corporation of the Municipality of Whitestone; the Corporation of the Township of Magnetawan; the Corporation of the Township of Strong; and the Municipal Corporation of the Township of Armour, for the purposes of adding POA defaulted fines to the tax roll.
Passed, Signed and Sealed

Council Agenda Preview – December 1, 2020

28 Saturday Nov 2020

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There are lots of interesting items on the agenda in terms of topic and the supporting information. Here are a few points that folks might want to follow up on.

4.5 & 9.3.1 – Support for Parry Sound Affordable Housing Development Corporation.
After a series of interactions it seems the Affordable Housing Corporation (PSAHC) has finally accepted the reality that the Town will not support more affordable housing if PSAHC insists on seeking exemptions from property taxation. PSAHC has stated that it, and any successor organizations, will not seek exemptions. It’s worth noting that their taxation rates are still lower than for residential properties.

9.2.2 – 2021 Land Ambulance Budget.
Our neighbouring municipalities will be squawking about the almost 5% increase in EMS costs. Because the expense is based in part on an assessment basis it is one of their highest expenses and one they can’t ‘finesse’.

9.3.2 – Xplornet’s proposal to the Province under the Improving Connectivity for Ontario (ICON) program.
It seems that after being ignored by internet providers we will now have two groups, Xplornet and the Smart Community Network Hub (Vianet), providing additional infrastructure. Does this mean competition or cooperation? This will primarily benefit of our neighbours as the Town already has good, if not exceptional, internet connectivity. (How about fibre on Redwood Drive???)

9.4.1 – Financial Variance Report for Third Quarter of 2020.
There is lots of juicy financial information in this report for those of you who like to understand what things in the Town cost to operate.

9.4.2 – RFP – General Insurance and Risk Management Services.
Insurance costs are going up 30%. This was previously suggested by our current provider. Any ideas on why prices are up this much? COVID-19 doesn’t seem a reasonable culprit.

10.2.1 – Appoint a Chief Building Official and Amend other building official appointments.
John Este is stepping down as CBO. He is pretty much the last of a management team that did a great job for the Town. I wish him the best. He served the Town as a true professional without any ‘attitude’.

Abridged Agenda

Closed Session
i) a trade secret or scientific, technical, commercial, financial or labour relations information, supplied in confidence to the municipality or local board, which, if disclosed, could reasonably be expected to prejudice significantly the competitive position or interfere significantly with the contractual or other negotiations of a person, group of persons, or organization, (EMS Human Resources issue)
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, (EMS Contract)

Correspondence
4.1 – Nick Ryeland, Park to Park Trail
2020 Funding Request.

4.2 – Beth Morton, Clerk-Administrator, Township of Perry
Opposition to Closure of Drive Test Centre in Sundridge.

4.3 – Minister Cho, Ministry of Seniors & Accessibility
Response to request for extension of Website compliance deadline.

4.4 – Hanif Datoo
Request for winter maintenance Geewadin Road extension.

4.5 – Parry Sound Affordable Housing Development Corporation
Support request for PSAHDC’s outreach to increase affordable housing.

Deputations
5.1 – Becky Pollock, Benjamin John, Georgian Bay Biosphere
ICECAP (Integrated Community Energy and Climate Action Plans) Progress Report.

5.2 – Nadine Hammond, Curator/Manager, Museum on Tower Hill
2021 Funding Request and 2020 Annual Report

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – Waste Diversion and Transition Legislation Comments
Resolution
That Council receive the Report attached as Schedule A and direct staff to provide comments consistent with the Report, on the proposed legislation as listed in the Environmental Registry as – ERO number 019-2579 prior to the December 3, 2020 deadline.

9.2.1 – Building Permit Software
Resolution
That Council accepts the proposal from Evolta Software Inc. for e-permitting (building permit) software (“Cloudpermit”) and authorizes staff to enter into an e-permit Service Agreement with Evolta Software Inc.

9.2.2 – 2021 Land Ambulance Budget
Resolution
That upon the recommendation of the EMS Advisory Committee the 2021 Land Ambulance Operating Budget be approved with a 4.85% levy increase over the 2020 approved budget in a total amount of $9,986,873; and
That a Land Ambulance Capital Budget be approved in the amount of $460,000 to be funded from the EMS Capital Reserve Fund.

9.2.3 – Sign Variance – 1 Pine Drive
Resolution
That Council authorizes and directs the Chief Building Official to issue a permit for 4 signs on the site of 1 Pine Drive pursuant to the variances and permissions attached as Schedule A.

9.3.1 – Support for Parry Sound Affordable Housing Development Corporation
Resolution
Whereas the Parry Sound Affordable Housing Development Corporation has submitted a letter and would appreciate support from the Town of Parry Sound in their efforts to increase the number of affordable housing units serving West Parry Sound;
Whereas there is an ongoing demand for affordable housing units in Parry Sound and the surrounding area; and
Whereas the Parry Sound Affordable Housing Development Corporation works in partnership with many organizations to increase the number of affordable housing units to serve Parry Sound, and
Whereas the Parry Sound Affordable Housing Development Corporation commits that neither it nor its successor organization(s) will seek an exemption from property taxes under the Assessment Act,
Now Therefore the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound does hereby support the Parry Sound Affordable Housing Development Corporation’s efforts in search of opportunities to increase the number of affordable housing units to serve Parry Sound.

9.3.2 – Xplornet’s proposal to the Province under the Improving Connectivity for Ontario (ICON) program
Resolution
Whereas Xplornet has requested support from the Town of Parry Sound for their submission to the Province under the Improving Connectivity for Ontario (ICON) program, and
Whereas the past months have demonstrated the importance of connectivity, especially for the more rural areas of Ontario, and
Whereas the post-pandemic recovery offers the opportunity to provide the necessary tools for rural Ontario’s success in the digital economy, including education through virtual learning, eHealth, economic development and by supporting residents working from home, and
Whereas Xplornet’s project will build 2,650 km of new fibre across the province, providing direct fibre connections in the rural areas of Parry Sound, including the connection of 1 new macro tower site and 1 new wireless microsite to fibre in Town,
Now Therefore the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound does hereby support Xplornet’s proposal to the Province under the Improving Connectivity for Ontario (ICON) program.

9.4.1 – Financial Variance Report for Third Quarter of 2020
Resolution
That Council hereby receives and accepts the variance report for the Third Quarter of 2020 (September 30, 2020); and
That Council hereby approves the expenses for Council members for the period from January 1, 2020 to September 30, 2020.

9.4.2 – RFP – General Insurance and Risk Management Services
Resolution
That Council accept and award the proposal for the Corporation’s general insurance and risk management services to BFL Canada, including Wharfingers/Terminal Operators insurance, at the premium cost of $451,169 plus sales tax for the one-year period ending December 15, 2021; and
That staff be authorized to negotiate and award other coverages up to a value of $15,000.

By-laws
10.1.1 – Community Sharps Bin – Agreement North Bay-Parry Sound District Health Unit
By-law 2020 – 7090
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of an agreement with the North Bay-Parry Sound District Health Unit for a Community Sharps Bin Program.

10.2.1 – Appoint a Chief Building Official and Amend other building official appointments
By-law 2020 – 7085
Being a By-law to Appoint Mark Vandermeer as Chief Building Official and amend or revoke other related Building Official Appointment By-laws.

10.2.2 – EMS Lease of a portion of the Humphrey Fire Hall
By-law 2020 – 7086
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of an agreement with the Township of Seguin for the lease of a portion of the Humphrey Fire Hall for an EMS Base.

10.2.3 – Big Sound Marina Breakwater and Dock C contract execution
By-law 2020 – 7087
Being a bylaw to authorize the execution of a contract with Kropf Industrial Inc for the replacement of the Breakwater and Dock C at the Big Sound Marina.

10.3.1 – Return of Financial Donation to Phil Morse for Outdoor Rink Project
By-law 2020 – 7091
Being a By-law to Authorize the Return of a Donation to Phil Morse.

10.4.1 – Commencement of Fees and Charges for Servicing Dennis & Macklaim Drive
By-law 2020 – 7088
Being a By-law to impose fees/charges for the recovery of the cost of capital works within portions of Plan M405 (Servicing Dennis and Macklaim Drive).

10.4.2 – Intermunicipal tax roll agreements with Whitestone, Magnetawan, Strong, and Armour
By-Law 2020 – 7089
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of four intermunicipal tax roll agreements with: the Corporation of the Municipality of Whitestone; the Corporation of the Township of Magnetawan; the Corporation of the Township of Strong; and the Municipal Corporation of the Township of Armour, for the purposes of adding POA defaulted fines to the tax roll.

 

 

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – September 1, 2020

04 Friday Sep 2020

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Nothing to see here. That is, there are no surprises.

Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof
1.4.1 – Councillor Horne declared pecuniary interest on EMS items 9.1.1, 9.1.2, and 9.1.3. referring respectively to the EMS budget deficit repayment to the West Parry Sound Health Centre, the 2020 EMS supplementary levy to area municipalities, and the appointment of a member to the EMS Advisory Committee, as his spouse is Chief Operating Officer of the West Parry Sound Health Centre and has direct involvement with the EMS Committee. Councillor Horne did not participate in discussion, nor vote on the items.

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiry as to the public’s response to local regulations enacted to deal with COVID-19, Director of Development & Protective Services Dave Thompson reported that people are responding by general adherence to mask regulations; there are some struggles with social distancing and larger groups as people want to get back to normal life; however generally there has been an overall positive response.

Correspondence
4.1 – Seguin Township
Support for request that province fund the West Parry Sound Health Centre based on real residential population of West Parry Sound, its tax base and the large catchment area.
Filed

4.2 – Municipality of Magnetawan
Resolution 2020-210 supporting the Town of Parry Sound’s Resolution 2020-068 regarding Municipal Financial Assistance Program.
Filed

4.3 – Municipality of Whitestone
Resolution 2020-250 supporting in principle the Muskoka-Parry Sound Riding Cooperative Broadband initiative.
Filed

4.4 – CUPE Ontario
20th Annual Child Care Worker and Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day, October 22, 2020.
See item 9.5.1 on the Agenda.

4.5 – Judy Kovacs
Request to install railing on Cascade St hill between CN crossing and William St.
Copied to Director of Public Works.

Deputations
None

Mayor & Councillors’ Reports
Deputy Mayor McCann and Councillors reported on meetings attended and matters arising. In Deputy Mayor McCann’s report, he noted that Belvedere Heights Board participating municipalities declined to approve of a resolution to request the province to increase funding to Long-Term Care facilities particularly for funding full-time workers. Such a resolution was on the July 7th, 2020 Council agenda and was postponed for input from Belvedere Heights Board. Deputy Mayor McCann therefore reported that as initiator of this resolution, he would not be bringing it back for Council consideration.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – 2019 Land Ambulance Expenditure Reconciliation.
Resolution
That upon the recommendation of the EMS Advisory Committee, Town of Parry Sound Council authorize the payment of $384,657 to the West Parry Sound Health Centre for the budget deficit occurring in the 2019 year, funded from the EMS Surplus Reserve.
Carried

9.1.2 – 2020 EMS Budget Deficit.
a) Direction
That the Director of Protective and Development Services prepare the 2021 Land Ambulance Budget recognizing that recent trends in funding challenges will necessitate significant levy increases.
Carried
b) Resolution
Recognizing that municipalities can utilize COVID-19 related funding from the Province at their discretion,
Now therefore upon the recommendation of the EMS Advisory Committee, a supplementary levy of $450,000.00 be applied in 2020 to municipalities in the Parry Sound District using the traditional funding formula; and further that the summer upstaff shift operate until October 13th, 2020.
Carried

9.1.3 – EMS Committee Member Appointment.
Resolution
That Town of Parry Sound Council accepts the resignation of Kim Dixon and appoints McDougall Councillor Lewis Malott to the Town of Parry Sound EMS Advisory Committee for the remainder of the term of Council.
Carried

9.1.4 – Application for Consent – 41, 43 & 45 Winnifred Ave.
Resolution
That B/31/20 (PS) – (L.U. Maughan on behalf of W.E.H. Developments Limited) – Lots 46-49 of M648 be supported, subject to the following conditions of consent:
1. That the applicant be advised that separate water/sewer services are to be provided to each of the proposed lots; and
2. That the applicant ensures legal access to the secondary units of the proposed lots. A physical and legal, without trespassing, exit serving the secondary units and compliant with the Ontario Building Code shall be provided.
Carried

9.2.1 – COVID-19 Emergency Support Fund for Specialized Equipment – Canada Cultural Spaces Fund.
Resolution
THAT Council authorizes that application be made to the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund, Specialized Equipment program; and,
THAT Clayton Harris be confirmed as the person with signing authority.
Carried

9.3.1 – Financial Variance Report for Mid-Year 2020.
Resolution
That Council hereby receives and accepts the variance report for Mid-Year 2020 (June 30, 2020); and
That Council hereby approves the expenses for Council members for the period from January 1, 2020 to June 30, 2020; and
That Council approves the transfer of the Federal contribution received related to the Town’s acquisition of Big Sound Marina in the amount of $1,293,240 to a Reserve for the purpose of capital expenditures at Big Sound Marina; and
Further That the Big Sound Marina Floating Breakwater in the 2020 budget be funded from this newly established Big Sound Marina Capital Reserve.
Carried

9.4.1 – Single Source – Municipal Vehicle (Sidewalk Maintenance/Plow).
Resolution
That Council accept the quote tender from Cubex Ltd for a used 2018 MacLean articulating Municipal Vehicle (Sidewalk Maintenance/Plow) in the amount of $152,021.16 including taxes and delivery.
Carried

9.4.2 – Parry Sound Drive Culvert Replacement.
Resolution
That Council accept the quote from Fowler Construction in the amount of $178,917.42 excluding HST, for culvert replacement on Parry Sound Drive; and
That the Mayor & Clerk be authorized to sign required agreements necessary to undertake the work.
Carried

9.4.3 – Bobby Orr Community Centre Re-opening.
Resolution
That the report regarding the September 2020 re-opening plans of the Bobby Orr Community Centre be received for information purposes for the benefit of Council and the Community.

9.5.1 – Rail Safety Week.
Resolution
Whereas Rail Safety Week is to be held across Canada from September 21 to 27, 2020;
Whereas it is in the public’s interest to raise citizens’ awareness of the dangers of ignoring safety warnings at level crossings and trespassing on rail property to reduce avoidable deaths, injuries and damage caused by incidents involving trains and citizens;
Whereas Operation Lifesaver is a public/private partnership whose aim is to work with the public, rail industry, governments, police services, media and others to raise rail safety awareness;
Whereas CN has requested Town Council adopt this resolution in support of its ongoing efforts to raise awareness, save lives and prevent injuries in communities, including our municipality;
Now Therefore be it Resolved That: the Council of the Town of Parry Sound supports national Rail Safety Week to be held from September 21 to 27, 2020.
Carried

9.5.2 – 20th Annual Child Care Worker & Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day.
Resolution
Whereas years of research confirms the benefits of high-quality child-care for young children’s intellectual, emotional, social and physical development and later life outcomes; and
Whereas child-care promotes the well-being of children and responds to the needs of parents and the broader community by supporting quality of life so that citizens can fully participate in and contribute to the economic and social life of their community; and
Whereas trained and knowledgeable Early Childhood Educators and child-care staff are the key to quality in early learning and child-care programs and champions for children;
Therefore Be It Resolved that October 22, 2020 be designated the 20th annual “Child Care Worker & Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day” in recognition of the education, dedication and commitment of child care workers to children, their families and quality of life of the community.
Carried

By-laws
10.4.1 – Cemetery By-law Amendment; addition of columbarium at Sylvan Acres.
a) Direction
That staff be directed to forward By-law 2000-7066, being the Cemetery Regulations By-law to the Bereavement Authority of Ontario for approval.
Carried
b) By-law 2020 – 7066
Being a By-law to establish the maintenance, management, regulation and control of the Hillcrest Cemetery and Sylvan Acres Cemetery and to repeal By-law 2019-6952.
Passed, Signed & Sealed.

10.4.2 – Equipment contracts for the SPEEDIER microgrid project with Lakeland Holding.
By-law 2020 – 7067
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of Agreements with Bracebridge Generation Ltd. as part of the SPEEDIER project, to install hot water tank controllers at the Operations Building and Wastewater Treatment Plant; and to install a Tesla Powerwall at the Operations Building.
Passed, Signed & Sealed.

Council Agenda Preview – September 1, 2020

29 Saturday Aug 2020

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There are a few interesting items of the agenda, although not controversial in my opinion.

9.1.2 – 2020 EMS Budget Deficit.
There will be an additional tax levy for 2021 related to added EMS demands related to COVID-19 impacting all West Parry Sound municipalities.

9.1.4 – Application for Consent – 41, 43 & 45 Winnifred Ave.
This item offers a peek at the developers planning, or lack thereof, with this new development.

9.3.1 – Financial Variance Report for Mid-Year 2020.
With all of the additional expenses and lost revenues related to COVID-19 it seems the Town is on track with a 2020 budget that was prepared without any sense of the pandemic and its impact.

Correspondence
4.1 – Seguin Township.
Support for request that province fund the West Parry Sound Health Centre based on real residential population of West Parry Sound, its tax base and the large catchment area.

4.2 – Municipality of Magnetawan.
Resolution 2020-210 supporting the Town of Parry Sound’s Resolution 2020-068 regarding Municipal Financial Assistance Program.

4.3 – Municipality of Whitestone.
Resolution 2020-250 supporting in principle the Muskoka-Parry Sound Riding Cooperative Broadband initiative.

4.4 – CUPE Ontario.
20th Annual Child Care Worker and Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day, October 22, 2020

4.5 – Judy Kovacs.
Request to install railing on Cascade St hill between CN crossing and William St.

Deputations
None

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – 2019 Land Ambulance Expenditure Reconciliation.
Resolution
That upon the recommendation of the EMS Advisory Committee, Town of Parry Sound Council authorize the payment of $384,657 to the West Parry Sound Health Centre for the budget deficit occurring in the 2019 year, funded from the EMS Surplus Reserve.

9.1.2 – 2020 EMS Budget Deficit.
Direction
That the Director of Protective and Development Services prepare the 2021 Land Ambulance Budget recognizing that recent trends in funding challenges will necessitate significant levy increases.
Resolution 2020
Recognizing that municipalities can utilize COVID-19 related funding from the Province at their discretion,
Now therefore upon the recommendation of the EMS Advisory Committee, a supplementary levy of $450,000.00 be applied in 2020 to municipalities in the Parry Sound District using the traditional funding formula; and further that the summer upstaff shift operate until October 13th, 2020.

9.1.3 – EMS Committee Member Appointment.
Resolution
That Town of Parry Sound Council accepts the resignation of Kim Dixon and appoints McDougall Councillor Lewis Malott to the Town of Parry Sound EMS Advisory Committee for the remainder of the term of Council.

9.1.4 – Application for Consent – 41, 43 & 45 Winnifred Ave.
Resolution
That B/31/20 (PS) – (L.U. Maughan on behalf of W.E.H. Developments Limited) – Lots 46-49 of M648 be supported, subject to the following conditions of consent:
1. That the applicant be advised that separate water/sewer services are to be provided to each of the proposed lots; and
2. That the applicant ensures legal access to the secondary units of the proposed lots. A physical and legal, without trespassing, exit serving the secondary units and compliant with the Ontario Building Code shall be provided.

9.2.1 – COVID-19 Emergency Support Fund for Specialized Equipment – Canada Cultural Spaces Fund.
Resolution
THAT Council authorizes that application be made to the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund, Specialized Equipment program; and,
THAT Clayton Harris be confirmed as the person with signing authority.

9.3.1 – Financial Variance Report for Mid-Year 2020.
Resolution
That Council hereby receives and accepts the variance report for Mid-Year 2020 (June 30, 2020); and
That Council hereby approves the expenses for Council members for the period from January 1, 2020 to June 30, 2020; and
That Council approves the transfer of the Federal contribution received related to the Town’s acquisition of Big Sound Marina in the amount of $1,293,240 to a Reserve for the purpose of capital expenditures at Big Sound Marina; and
Further That the Big Sound Marina Floating Breakwater in the 2020 budget be funded from this newly established Big Sound Marina Capital Reserve.

9.4.1 – Single Source – Municipal Vehicle (Sidewalk Maintenance/Plow).
Resolution
That Council accept the quote tender from Cubex Ltd for a used 2018 MacLean articulating Municipal Vehicle (Sidewalk Maintenance/Plow) in the amount of $152,021.16 including taxes and delivery.

9.4.2 – Parry Sound Drive Culvert Replacement.
Resolution
That Council accept the quote from Fowler Construction in the amount of $178,917.42 excluding HST, for culvert replacement on Parry Sound Drive; and
That the Mayor & Clerk be authorized to sign required agreements necessary to undertake the work.

9.4.3 – Bobby Orr Community Centre Re-opening.
Resolution
That the report regarding the September 2020 re-opening plans of the Bobby Orr Community Centre be received for information purposes for the benefit of Council and the Community.

9.5.1 – Rail Safety Week.
Resolution
Whereas Rail Safety Week is to be held across Canada from September 21 to 27, 2020;
Whereas it is in the public’s interest to raise citizens’ awareness of the dangers of ignoring safety warnings at level crossings and trespassing on rail property to reduce avoidable deaths, injuries and damage caused by incidents involving trains and citizens;
Whereas Operation Lifesaver is a public/private partnership whose aim is to work with the public, rail industry, governments, police services, media and others to raise rail safety awareness;
Whereas CN has requested Town Council adopt this resolution in support of its ongoing efforts to raise awareness, save lives and prevent injuries in communities, including our municipality;
Now Therefore be it Resolved That: the Council of the Town of Parry Sound supports national Rail Safety Week to be held from September 21 to 27, 2020.

9.5.2 – 20th Annual Child Care Worker & Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day.
Resolution
Whereas years of research confirms the benefits of high quality child-care for young children’s intellectual, emotional, social and physical development and later life outcomes; and
Whereas child-care promotes the well-being of children and responds to the needs of parents and the broader community by supporting quality of life so that citizens can fully participate in and contribute to the economic and social life of their community; and
Whereas trained and knowledgeable Early Childhood Educators and child-care staff are the key to quality in early learning and child-care programs and champions for children;
Therefore Be It Resolved that October 22, 2020 be designated the 20th annual “Child Care Worker & Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day” in recognition of the education, dedication and commitment of child care workers to children, their families and quality of life of the community.

By-laws
10.4.1 – Cemetery By-law Amendment; addition of columbarium at Sylvan Acres.
Direction
That staff be directed to forward this by-law to the Bereavement Authority of Ontario for approval.
By-law 2020 – 7066
Being a By-law to establish the maintenance, management, regulation and control of the Hillcrest Cemetery and Sylvan Acres Cemetery and to repeal By-law 2019-6952.

10.4.2 – Equipment contracts for the SPEEDIER microgrid project with Lakeland Holding.
By-law 2020 – 7067
Being a By-law to authorize the execution of Agreements with Bracebridge Generation Ltd. as part of the SPEEDIER project, to install hot water tank controllers at the Operations Building and Wastewater Treatment Plant; and to install a Tesla Powerwall at the Operations Building.

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – July 21, 2020

26 Sunday Jul 2020

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There are no surprises in the minutes of the July 21st meeting of the Town of Parry Sound Council. See the related Agenda Preview post for details and my comments on the various items.

Presentations
None

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – In response to Councillor McCann’s inquiry regarding construction at the corner of Seguin, Bowes and Great North Roads, Director of Public Works Mike Kearns reported that Lakeland Power is in the process of running infrastructure underground using directional boring.

3.2.2 – In response to Councillor Borneman’s inquiry as to what is happening to the provincial government building on Bay Street with the new OPP station moving quickly to completion, CAO Clayton Harris reported that the Town has received no update and no timeline from the Ministry of Natural Resources & Forestry to determine where they would like to relocate. Mr. Harris also noted that facility analysis is or has been done with other locations, raising concern about the possibility of MNRF moving out of the area. The Town has a delegation request at the AMO virtual conference with one of the items being a reminder to the Minister that the Town is interested in the property and would like to see jobs retained in community.

3.2.3 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiry regarding pavement cuts at Waubuno Road near Waubeek and Waubeek Street near Church, Mr. Kearns reported that these cuts are in anticipation of re-paving which should have been completed by end of workday today.

3.2.4 – In response to Councillor McCann’s inquiry regarding the timeline for completion of removal of demolition rubble from the former St. Joseph’s Hospital, Mr. Harris said that he would ask the Chief Building Official what the demolition plan was submitted by the contractor and report back to Council. Mayor McGarvey reported that the contractor seems to be separating material into different piles for reclamation. With respect to the chimney, Manager of Building and Planning Services Taylor Elgie reported that the plan does not include demolition of the chimney which is a habitat for the endangered chimney swift. Mr. Harris reported that the contractor indicated he convinced the owner to save the chimney as it was unnecessary to demolish it, it was in stable condition, at the edge of the property and may be an interesting feature in a new development.

Correspondence
Note: Only an action for item 4.8 was noted for the various correspondence items. Refer to the Agenda Preview for details on the various items.

4.1 – Jenn Montreuil, Deputy City Clerk, City of North Bay. Copy of letter to the Prime Minister re: support for FCM’s request of the Federal Government to support communities with a minimum $10 billion funding for emergency operational support.

4.2 – Township of The Archipelago. Request for increased provincial funding for the West Parry Sound Health Centre that takes into account seasonal residency.

4.3 – Township of The Archipelago. Copy of letter written to the President and CEO of LCBO regarding concerns with the potential closure of LCBO convenience outlets at Woods Bay and San Souci.

4.4 – Township of The Archipelago. Resolution expressing hope that the COVID-19 pandemic can be controlled to the point where international borders can be safely re-opened such that international and American property owners can access their properties.

4.5 – Township of The Archipelago. Support for the Town of Parry Sound and the Health Unit’s initiatives mandating face coverings.
4.6 – Andrea McIntyre. Concerns with the mandating of face coverings.

4.7 – Municipality of Whitestone. Copy of request to provincial government to financially support rural broadband internet.

4.8 – Gail McEwen, Almonte Street. Concern over a property matter between neighbours which has been referred to the Director of Public Works and the By-law Enforcement Officer.

4.9 – Jeremy McDonald, A-Staff Sergeant, Detachment Commander, WPS OPP. OPP 2020 Quarter 2 Report.

Deputations
None

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – Consent Application B/16/20(PS) – PS Mall Inc. – 70 Joseph Street.
Resolution
That Consent Application No. B16/2020(TPS) – Parry Sound Mall Inc. (70 Joseph Street), be supported, subject to the following conditions:
1. any necessary amendment/variance to the Zoning By-law be completed to ensure that resultant lots would meet the requirements of the zoning by-law, which includes setbacks and compliance with Section 4.9 (e) of By-law 2004-4653;
the payment of cash in lieu of parkland dedication fees for the newly created lot;
any easements be deeded between the retained and severed lots for access to utilities and vehicular traffic – a blanket easement may be required for reciprocal parking rights.
4. that the applicant obtain compliance with the Ontario Building Code as it relates to the lot line dividing the structure (ex – construct a firewall); and
5. that separate water/sewer services be provided to each of the retained and severed lands.
Carried

9.1.2 – Consent Application B/17/20(TPS) – Gomez – 10 Edward Street.
Resolution
That Consent Application No. B/17/2020(TPS) – Gomez – 10 Edward Street, be supported, subject to the following conditions:
the payment of cash in lieu of parkland dedication fees for the newly created lot; and
that the applicant be advised that separate water/sewer services are to be provided to each of the retained and severed lands.
Carried

9.2.1 – Flag Policy.
Resolution
That the Flag Policy attached as Schedule A be hereby approved, effective immediately.
Carried

9.2.2 – Donation to the Heath Centre in Recognition of the face masks they provided to the Town.
Resolution
Whereas many of the West Parry Sound Health Centre’s (Health Centre) fund raising efforts have been cancelled or postponed due to Covid-19;
Whereas the need for fund raising continues;
Whereas the Health Centre, with the assistance of the hospital auxiliary volunteers began making and distributing masks throughout the community;
Whereas the Health Centre has provided over 150 masks to the Town.
NOWTHEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Town of Parry Sound thanks the Health Centre for this initiative in support of the community;
AND THAT the Town donate $500.00 to the West Parry Sound Health Centre Foundation under the mask program.
The following amendment was proposed:
That the donation be increased to $1,000.
Amendment Carried
The amended resolution was voted on
Carried as amended

9.2.3 – COVID-19 Emergency Support Fund for Heritage Organizations – Museums Assistance Program.
Resolution
THAT Council authorizes that application be made to the COVID-19 Emergency Support Fund for Heritage Organizations – Museums Assistance Program for the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame and THAT Clayton Harris be confirmed as the person with signing authority.
Carried

9.3.1 – 2019 Audited Financial Statements
Resolution
That Council for the Town of Parry Sound does hereby approve the Draft Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2019 in Schedule “A” as attached; and
That the 2019 Draft Financial Statements for the Provincial Offences Act in Schedule “B” be approved as attached; and
That the 2019 Draft Financial Statements for Administration of Land Ambulance Services in Schedule “C” be approved as attached.
Carried

9.3.2 – Development Charge Background Study for the Town of Parry Sound.
Resolution
That Council approves undertaking a Development Charge Background Study using Watson & Associates Economists Ltd. (Watson) at the estimated cost of $39,570, excluding HST.
Carried

9.4.1 – Transport Canada Rail Safety Improvement Program.
Resolution.
That Council direct staff to complete an online application form for the Transport Canada Rail Safety Improvement Program (RSIP) to explore funding opportunities related to the double rail crossing at Isabella St.
Carried

By-laws
10.1.1 – Subdivision Amending Agreement – W.E.H. Developments Limited.
By-Law 2020 – 7059
Being a By-law to authorize a Subdivision Amending Agreement regarding phasing with W.E.H. Developments Limited (Hall/Thunder Creek).
Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.1.2 – Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/20/03 – 9 Church Street (Matt Ryan for Oleg Gromov).
By-Law 2020 – 7060
Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for 9 Church Street (Matt Ryan for Oleg Gromov)
Passed, Signed & Sealed 10.2 CAO’s Office/Administration

10.2.1 – Council Procedure By-law Amendment to permit expanded Electronic Participation at Meetings.
By-law 2020 – 7061
Being a By-law to govern and regulate the proceedings of Council of The Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound, and its Boards and Committees where applicable.
Passed, Signed & Sealed
Resolution
Whereas the Province of Ontario’s Declared State of Emergency is scheduled to end on July 22nd, 2020; and
Whereas COVID-19 continues to exist as a declared world-wide pandemic; and
Whereas Bill 197, the COVID-19 Economic Recovery Act, 2020 which if passed into law, will expand the opportunity for municipal Councils, Local Boards and their Committees to meet electronically; and
Whereas in anticipation of Bill 197 passing, Council has passed By-law 2020 – 7061, permitting by means of a resolution, certain expanded terms of electronic participation at meetings of Council, Local Boards and its Committees;
Now Therefore Be It Resolved that Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound extends until October 31st, 2020 the terms of electronic participation at meetings of Council, Local Boards or Committees of either them per the following:
a) electronic participation counts towards quorum;
b) electronic participants are permitted to vote; and
c) electronic participation is permitted in a meeting closed to the public.
Carried

10.4.1 – Recycling of Consumer-Type Batteries Agreement.
By-law 2020 – 7062
Being a By-law to authorise the execution of an agreement with Call2Recycle for the management of used Consumer-Type Portable Battery Recycling
Passed, Signed & Sealed

 

Council Agenda Preview – July 21, 2020

19 Sunday Jul 2020

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Sometimes it’s hard to understand the content of a letter, resolution or by-law on the basis of the short ‘title’ in the formal agenda. To try and help folks understand what an item concerns I will provide a sort summary (in italics) with what I believe is the actual issue. I will continue to offer my thoughts on selected agenda items at the beginning of these Town of Parry Sound council meeting agenda previews. As always, refer to the full agenda package available at the Town’s website for details and supporting documentation.

4.3 – Township of The Archipelago. Concerns with pending closure of LCBO convenience outlets within the Archipelago.
It seems that what locals, and in particular seasonal residents, want is easy access to cheap fast internet and booze.

4.6 – Andrea McIntyre. Concerns with the mandating of face coverings.
I will note that this is the same individual who was a major force behind the removal of fluoride from the Town’s water supply. Her argument is that face coverings will not protect you from contracting COVID-19. What is missing are the established findings that while face covering may or not protect you from COVID-19 they do protect others if you have the virus and are asymptomatic. The net/net is face covering helps reduce virus transmission. Eating healthy and exercising may not prevent all disease but they improve your overall health and reduce the incidence and severity of lifestyle related diseases, and possibly COVID-19. Cover up or stay home. We all have choices.

4.9 – Jeremy McDonald, A-Staff Sergeant, Detachment Commander, WPS OPP. OPP 2020 Quarter 2 Report.
This is notable because the OPP are using Palantir Gotham data. This is a service of Palantir Technologies, founded by Peter Thiel. (Big Brother?) There are some interesting maps showing where they have conducted R.I.D.E. programs.

9.2.2 – Donation to the Heath Centre in Recognition of the face masks they provided to the Town.
After all of the preamble and the rationalization for making a donation the Town gives the Health Centre $500? Come on, it probably costs more than $500 for Staff to write it up and Council to consider it. We can afford to loosen the wallet a little bit more. It either is or isn’t a worthwhile cause.

9.4.1 – Transport Canada Rail Safety Improvement Program.
I’ll have a little more to say about rail safety in a post in the not too distant future.

10.1.1 – Subdivision Amending Agreement – W.E.H. Developments Limited.
May your life be interesting, I guess. This concerns the Thunder Creek development on Winnifred Avenue behind the high school and relates to numerous changes requested by the developer in response to the reality of the project, presumably construction and financing related. If you are interested check out the full agenda which has the staff recommendation and discussion.

10.1.2 – Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/20/03 – 9 Church Street (Matt Ryan for Oleg Gromov).
This concerns the empty lot on Church Street beside the optometrist/credit union building. After a bit of back and forth and some concessions on the part of the developer the Town will probably
approved the development.

Correspondence

4.1 – Jenn Montreuil, Deputy City Clerk, City of North Bay. Copy of letter to the Prime Minister re: support for FCM’s request of the Federal Government to support communities with a minimum $10 billion funding for emergency operational support.

4.2 – Township of The Archipelago. Request for increased provincial funding for the West Parry Sound Health Centre based on seasonal residency.

4.3 – Township of The Archipelago. Concerns with pending closure of LCBO convenience outlets within the Archipelago.

4.4 – Township of The Archipelago. Support for International and American ratepayers of The Archipelago.

4.5 – Township of The Archipelago. Support for the Town of Parry Sound and the Health Unit’s initiatives mandating face coverings.

4.6 – Andrea McIntyre. Concerns with the mandating of face coverings.

4.7 – Municipality of Whitestone. Copy of request to government to financially support rural broadband internet.

4.8 – Gail McEwen, Almonte Street. Concern over a property matter.

4.9 – Jeremy McDonald, A-Staff Sergeant, Detachment Commander, WPS OPP. OPP 2020 Quarter 2 Report.

Deputations
None

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – Consent Application B/16/20(PS) – PS Mall Inc. – 70 Joseph Street.
Resolution.
That Consent Application No. B16/2020(TPS) – Parry Sound Mall Inc. (70 Joseph Street), be supported, subject to the following conditions:
1. any necessary amendment/variance to the Zoning By-law be completed to ensure that resultant lots would meet the requirements of the zoning by-law, which includes setbacks and compliance with Section 4.9 (e) of By-law 2004-4653; the payment of cash in lieu of parkland dedication fees for the newly created lot; any easements be deeded between the retained and severed lots for access to utilities and vehicular traffic – a blanket easement may be required for reciprocal parking rights.
4. that the applicant obtain compliance with the Ontario Building Code as it relates to the lot line dividing the structure (ex – construct a firewall); and
5. that separate water/sewer services be provided to each of the retained and severed lands.
Oh boy, this is confusing. The net/net as I understand it is that the current owners want to sever the current mall structure, the building, for the purpose of financing. If approved, the mall building will be on two separate ‘lots’.

9.1.2 – Consent Application B/17/20(TPS) – Gomez – 10 Edward Street.
Resolution.
That Consent Application No. B/17/2020(TPS) – Gomez – 10 Edward Street, be supported, subject to the following conditions:
the payment of cash in lieu of parkland dedication fees for the newly created lot;
and that the applicant be advised that separate water/sewer services are to be provided to each of the retained and severed lands.

9.2.1 – Flag Policy
Resolution.
That the Flag Policy attached as Schedule A be hereby approved, effective immediately.

9.2.2 – Donation to the Heath Centre in Recognition of the face masks they provided to the Town.
Resolution.
Whereas many of the West Parry Sound Health Centre’s (Health Centre) fund raising efforts have been cancelled or postponed due to Covid-19;
Whereas the need for fund raising continues;
Whereas the Health Centre, with the assistance of the hospital auxiliary volunteers began making and distributing masks throughout the community;
Whereas the Health Centre has provided over 150 masks to the Town.
NOWTHEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Town of Parry Sound thanks the Health Centre for this initiative in support of the community;
AND THAT the Town donate $500.00 to the West Parry Sound Health Centre Foundation under the mask program.

9.2.3 – COVID-19 Emergency Support Fund for Heritage Organizations – Museums Assistance Program.
Resolution.
THAT Council authorizes that application be made to the COVID-19 Emergency Support Fund for Heritage Organizations – Museums Assistance Program for the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame and THAT Clayton Harris be confirmed as the person with signing authority.

9.3.1 – 2019 Audited Financial Statements.
Resolution.
That Council for the Town of Parry Sound does hereby approve the Draft Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2019 in Schedule “A” as attached; and
That the 2019 Draft Financial Statements for the Provincial Offences Act in Schedule “B” be approved as attached; and
That the 2019 Draft Financial Statements for Administration of Land Ambulance Services in Schedule “C” be approved as attached.

9.3.2 – Development Charge Background Study for the Town of Parry Sound.
Resolution.
That Council approves undertaking a Development Charge Background Study using Watson & Associates Economists Ltd. (Watson) at the estimated cost of $39,570, excluding HST.

9.4.1 – Transport Canada Rail Safety Improvement Program.
Resolution.
That Council direct staff to complete an online application form for the Transport Canada Rail Safety Improvement Program (RSIP) to explore funding opportunities related to the double rail crossing at Isabella St.

By-laws
10.1.1 – Subdivision Amending Agreement – W.E.H. Developments Limited.
By-Law 2020 – 7059.
Being a By-law to authorize a Subdivision Amending Agreement regarding phasing with W.E.H. Developments Limited (Hall/Thunder Creek).

10.1.2 – Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/20/03 – 9 Church Street (Matt Ryan for Oleg Gromov).
By-Law 2020 – 7060.
Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for 9 Church Street (Matt Ryan for Oleg Gromov).

10.2.1 – Council Procedure By-law Amendment to permit expanded Electronic Participation at Meetings.
By-law 2020 – 7061.
Being a By-law to govern and regulate the proceedings of Council of The Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound, and its Boards and Committees where applicable.
Resolution.
Whereas the Province of Ontario’s Declared State of Emergency is scheduled to end on July 22nd, 2020; and
Whereas COVID-19 continues to exist as a declared world-wide pandemic; and
Whereas Bill 197, the COVID-19 Economic Recovery Act, 2020 which if passed into law, will expand the opportunity for municipal Councils, Local Boards and their Committees to meet electronically; and
Whereas in anticipation of Bill 197 passing, Council has passed By-law 2020 – XXXX, permitting by means of a resolution, certain expanded terms of electronic participation at meetings of Council, Local Boards and its Committees;
Now Therefore Be It Resolved that Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound extends until October 31st, 2020 the terms of electronic participation at meetings of Council, Local Boards or Committees of either them per the following:
a) electronic participation counts towards quorum;
b) electronic participants are permitted to vote; and
c) electronic participation is permitted in a meeting closed to the public.

10.4.1 – Recycling of Consumer-Type Batteries Agreement.
By-law 2020 – 7062.
Being a By-law to authorise the execution of an agreement with Call2Recycle for the management of used Consumer-Type Portable Battery Recycling.

Council Agenda Preview – July 7, 2020

04 Saturday Jul 2020

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After a bit of a lull it seems that things are starting to heat up again. Understanding the more important issues requires reviewing the agenda package and the attachments. These are the items that I will be looking at a little bit closer:

9.2.3 – West Parry Sound Area Recreation and Culture Centre Update (formerly Wellness Centre & Pool). The pool project seems to be active and dependent on the support of the Province. The total project is budgeted at about $32 million.
9.3.1 – Reserve and Reserve Fund Annual Report; 2019 Surplus allocation.
Resolution. I am having some trouble understanding the net/net of the report and will contact Town Staff for help.
10.1.2 – Development Charges Deferral Agreement – Maruti Parry Sound lnc. The Town seems to be willing to take on infrastructure costs to support the development of the proposed Best Western hotel on Pine Drive across from the Pet Smart and The Source. Some of you may remember the way that the Town was ‘surprised’ by the infrastructure costs they assumed with the original Walmart development on Pine Drive.

NOTABLE AGENDA ITEMS
As always review the issued agenda hosted at the Town’s website for the full agenda and the associated documentation.

Closed Session
No agenda items listed.

Correspondence
4.1 – Diane Gould-Brown, City Clerk, City of Sarnia. Resolution of recommended improvements to Long Term Care Homes

4.2 – Maryann Weaver, Clerk, Township of the Archipelago. Resolution of recommended actions to improve rural internet connectivity

4.3 – Lori West, Municipality of McDougall. DSSABs not the best solution for oversight of Northern OPP Detachments

4.4. – Maryann Weaver, Clerk, Township of the Archipelago. DSSABs not the best solution for oversight of Northern OPP Detachments

Deputations
None

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.2.1 – Request NBPSDHU Issue Recommendation vis-à-vis Wearing Masks.
Resolution
WHEREAS COVID-19 and the risk of spreading the virus is still present in our community;
WHEREAS we rely on public health professionals for recommendations on ways to prevent the spread of the virus;
WHEREAS Public Health Units have the authority to impose restrictions;
WHEREAS some Public Health Units in Ontario such as Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph have issued an Order requiring individuals entering commercial establishments and public spaces, noting appropriate exceptions, to wear a mask or face covering.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the North Bay/Parry Sound District Health Unit be requested to provide their recommendation with respect to issuing an Order to require individuals entering commercial establishments to wear a mask or face covering, noting appropriate exceptions within the area served by the Health Unit;
AND THAT this Resolution be forwarded to all municipalities in West Parry Sound and MPP Norm Miller.

9.2.2 – 2019 Integrity Commissioner Report.
Resolution
That Council receive the 2019 Integrity Commissioner Report as attached.

9.2.3 – West Parry Sound Area Recreation and Culture Centre Update (formerly Wellness Centre & Pool).
Resolution
That the report Attached as Schedule A and confidential attachment regarding an update on the West Parry Sound Area Recreation and Culture Centre and the ICIP grant application be received for information purposes.

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

9.5.1 – OPP Detachment Boards.
Resolution
WHEREAS Council for the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound received resolutions from the Municipality of McDougall and the Township of the Archipelago regarding oversight boards for OPP Detachments, and
WHEREAS correspondence dated May 14, 2020 from The Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM) regarding issues discussed at their May 13th, 2020 virtual meeting brought attention to the Association of Municipalities of Ontario’s (AMO’s) Discussion Paper “New Ontario Provincial Police Detachment Boards: Building a Framework for Better Policing Governance”;
AND WHEREAS AMO’s discussion paper proposes that Northern Ontario District Social Services Administration Boards (DSSAB) replace the current OPP Detachment Boards;
AND WHEREAS the FONOM Board has identified several issues with DSSAB Boards replacing the current Detachment Boards, and recognizes that Community Policing is distinctive to each Municipality;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Council for the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound is in agreement with the opinion of FONOM, and supports the resolutions of the Municipality of McDougall and the Township of the Archipelago, that the current DSSABs would not be the best solution for overseeing the Northern OPP Detachments;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT a copy of this resolution be sent to FONOM and its member municipalities, AMO, the Honourable Sylvia Jones, Solicitor General, and Norm Miller, MPP for Parry Sound-Muskoka.

9.5.2 – Increased Funding Request to support more Full-time Staff for Long Term Care.
Resolution 2020
WHEREAS the Corporation of the City of Sarnia has requested support from all Ontario municipalities for a resolution adopted by its Council on June 22, 2020 that urges Premier Ford to increase hours for all part-time and casual labour in Long-Term Care facilities and to increase inspections of private Long-Term Care facilities in order to end the neglect and unacceptable conditions being experienced in Long-Term Care facilities by vulnerable seniors;
AND Whereas the Town of Parry Sound Council deems it appropriate to support the spirit of the resolution while redirecting the motion due to the following issues:
– the precarious employment often experienced by part-time and casual workers resulting in diminished availability of such workers when better employment opportunities open up, in turn resulting in diminished continuity of care to individual residents;
– neglect and unacceptable conditions in Long-Term Care facilities are deemed to be the result of lack of labour;
– the existing strong regulations in Long-Term Care service should be sufficient for proper enforcement of the Long-Term Care Act;
Now Therefore be it resolved that the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound Council requests that the Province increase funding to Long-Term Care facilities specifically to hire sufficient full-time, skilled labour to meet and exceed the provincial standards of care, as dictated by the Ministry of Long Term Care;
AND FURTHER that this resolution be sent to the Honourable Merrilee Fullerton, Minister of Long-Term Care, The Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario, Mr. Norm Miller, MPP, Parry Sound – Muskoka, the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) and the City of Sarnia City Clerk’s Office.

By-laws
10.1.1 – Fleck Street Service Manager Housing Facility Agreement – Amendment.
By-law 2020 – 7052
Being a By-law to Amend a Service Manager Housing Facility Agreement with the District of Parry Sound Social Services Administration Board, and Karasmanis (2757896 Ontario Ltd.).

10.1.2 – Development Charges Deferral Agreement – Maruti Parry Sound lnc.
By-Law 2020 – 7055
Being a By-law to authorize a Development Charges Deferral Agreement with Maruti Parry Sound lnc. (Best Western).

10.1.3 – Site Plan Application S19/08 – Pine Drive (Maruti Parry Sound lnc.).
By-Law 2020 – 7053
Being a By-law to authorize a Site Plan Agreement S19/08 with Maruti Parry Sound lnc./Best Western (Pine Drive).

10.1.4 – Rezoning Application – Z/20/03 – Best Western Plus (Pine Drive) – Lifting of “h” symbol.
By-Law 2020 – 7054
Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law) as amended to remove a holding provision (Maruti Parry Sound Inc./Best Western Plus, Pine Drive).