MUNICIPALITY OF ARRAN-ELDERSLIE
MINUTES MONDAY JULY 9, 2007 AT 9:00 AM COUNCIL CHAMBERS
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PRESENT: Mayor Ron Oswald, Deputy Mayor Mary Cumming
Councillors Rob Bonderud, Mark Davis, Paul Eagleson, Ross Herron
REGRETS: Councillor Stacy Charlton (vacation)
PRESS: Mary Golem, Sun Times
Channel 6 News attended just before noon
PUBLIC: Dave Weatherall, Men's Recreation Hockey League
STAFF: CHIEF BUILDING OFFICIAL, Craig Johnston
WORKS MANAGER, Vernon Weppler
TREASURER, Joanne Marklevitz
Clerk/CAO, Joan Albright
DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTEREST & THE GENERAL NATURE THEREOF: none with the agenda; when Oswald brought up the Middleton Subdivision in Tara, Davis declared a pecuniary interest.
MINUTES:
Moved by: M. Davis Seconded by: M. Cumming
that the minutes of June 25, 2007 be adopted as circulated.
Carried
BUSINESS ARISING OUT OF THE MINUTES: Oswald questioned the quote of Cumming re “bombarding” Bruce Power for a donation to the Paisley Medical Clinic, minutes changed to “petition”.
DELEGATIONS:
Dave Weatherall attended to inquire if Council is going to consider his alternative scheduling of the men’s recreational hockey league. Cumming responded that when the Recreation Director is here it will be discussed. There is to be a meeting with the league later this week.
Staff reports: copies of written reports to all
9:00 AM CHIEF BUILDING OFFICIAL, Craig Johnston
Reviewed his report with Council. Oswald would like the lot and concession numbers added to locations.
$2 million permit to be issued for factory lot fourplexes this week
Johnston circulated a memo from “Peak” in Councillor’s mail boxes, has assumed the abandoned Paisley Heights subdivision, buildings secured, working on servicing. Noted Sun Times letter to the editor by Jack Riley accusing the CBO of issuing a stop work order which halted the subdivision—no such work order was issued and Bonderud and Cumming said they were not contacted for information prior to the letter being written. Bonderud added that the experts in Paisley don’t need to ask.
Property Standards: he and Cheryl Roberts have had about 80 derelict cars removed, lawns cut, among other types of cleanup
Will have medical clinic final drawings ready for Council’s final approval before tendering; contrary to public reports the site is not a swamp, the drainage ditch will be relocated; Cumming added that some people think there is swamp there.
Re Sun Times calls: received 27+ calls in three days—Council considered that harassment. Discussed the Paisley Hotel’s new engineer’s report which corroborates earlier engineering reports that confirm the structure is compromised; noted the mortar failure is more extensive than a recent building demolished in Toronto; the report recommends rehabilitation as soon as possible; the Municipality has given the Hotel the opportunity to repair the building or demolish it. Council agreed that while any building is ‘saveable’ the extent of the damage is such that, as the Hotel’s engineer has just said, it would be cheaper to demolish and rebuild. McLean does not have a court date in spite of the Sun Times reporting one on July 12th.
Cumming is very disappointed in certain residents in Paisley who could be helping rather than tearing Paisley apart, there are better ways to publicize the community. Johnston has no intention of reversing his position to avoid someone being injured.
Bonderud confirmed this latest engineering report is the same as the rest, he and Cumming do not understand why the owner thinks it is different.
Bonderud also mentioned the complaints about health inspections of restaurants—when you hear the other side it is very different. Oswald asked Johnston what the process is? Back Eddy’s has never had an inspection, he did not apply for a building permit, the Health Unit and the CBO work together routinely; has had a half a dozen calls on the other restaurant about cleanliness and the Health Unit did require changes to be made. The two Paisley restaurants are not the only ones which have had complaints that were forwarded to the Health Unit, there have been others in Chesley and Allenford. Eagleson added that the Health Unit always struggle to get to all the restaurants, needs helpful information, Back Eddie’s and the Chicpea have had all kinds of free publicity that their facilities are now clean. Johnston appreciates the support he has received from Council and Staff during the campaign to discredit him; Davis added that there is a campaign to discredit Johnston and told him to stay calm and hang in there.
9:45 AM WORKS MANAGER, Vernon Weppler
Reviewed his report with Council: Davis remarked on the close quotes received for signs and culverts—motion passed; Tara Rotary Park—no luck with water service bore due to the rock, are looking at hanging it on the bridge or laying it across the river on the unused road allowance; Herron suggested it would be preferable to hang it on the bridge as it would be easier to access spring and fall; single surface treatment is done, the double surface and the asphalt will be done this week; sidewalks on Maria St are done, hot mix this week; Brook St. job is going well, there are a lot of telephone lines and a gas line which was damaged; waiting for culvert ordered to finish our part of the McClure Bridge.
Oswald asked about replacement of equipment, what is really necessary, could organize a visit to a used equipment yard, Eagleson looked in the Elderslie shop and noted the 1.5 year-old New Holland looks more like 10 years old.
Oswald asked if the current landfill will last another three years, yes, according to the last report, Weppler said we are in the process of activating the Arran site, Cumming passed along a compliment for road repairs in the subdivision, Cumming asked for a culvert/entrance at the site for the medical clinic so when fill is available it can be dumped, Weppler asked to have a contractor take out the topsoil and trees first; discussed a handicapped sidewalk approach in Paisley Market Square—Weppler said its already there.
Cumming said they are moving the fundraising toll road location further south, Oswald recommended it be well manned, it could be very successful, they will also be contacting the OPP, will have flashing signs, contacting the radio stations, using reflective clothing.
10:15 AM TREASURER, Joanne Marklevitz
Reviewed the accounts: Weppler consulted on McClure Bridge share of County engineering, Paisley entrance flower bed structure, dust control invoices, screening topsoil billed to cemeteries this year—rotate around departments.
General ledger report: everything to date is within budget
Circulated a summary revenue/expense report of the Chesley Doctor Appreciation Night – profit of $2,013 will be held in reserves for expansion of the Chesley clinic
ACCOUNTS – were reviewed with Staff prior to passage
CORRESPONDENCE – copies to all unless otherwise noted
1 REQUIRING ACTION
1.1 United Counties of Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry - requesting support of its June 18, 2007 resolution requesting the Province of Ontario to separate the Farmland and Managed Forest component from the Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund and to establish a separate and distinct Provincial funding program with 100% reimbursement to municipalities of their annual lost property tax revenue on farmland and managed forest properties
Herron thought Council should support this, we have a lot of farmland, it was a better system when farmers paid 100% and received 75% of their farm taxes back from the Province—now we are paying for our own farm tax rebate system.
1.2 Municipality of Huron East - requesting support of its June 5, 2007 resolution expressing its frustration with the Ministry of the Environment timelines and delays in obtaining Ministry approvals to carry out amendments to Certificates of and Permits to Take Water.
1.3 Arran-Tara Agricultural Society – requesting Wednesday September 12, 2007 to be declared a half-holiday in Tara
Herron noted this has been done for years so the Arran-Tara Elementary School can be closed so the kids can be in the parade and remain at the fair.
Confirmed a float would be put in the parade. Davis said Howard Tedford would like the Municipality to enter a BBQ team in their contest, will get four Councillors or Staff, Davis will arrange.
2 INFORMATION ONLY
2.1 Paul Holmes, Detachment Commander
a) 2006 performance measures
b) notice of new Staff Sergeant position
Motion to reduce OPP level of policing: Davis noted that without the lower cost in 2006 we would have had a 20% tax increase; Eagleson supports the motion, we will return to 2005 level of costs as a new detachment is being built in Caledonia, the addition of a Staff Sergeant position will increase our costs as well; Oswald agreed with reviewing the level of policing, is not in favour of starting our own force, this Municipality has no more problems than other places; Davis said we need a level we can afford; Bonderud agreed we have to voice our opinion, last year’s level provided adequate coverage, the increase may be due to union demands.
2.2 Grey Sauble Conservation Authority – thank you excerpted from its 50th anniversary program
It was the first Herron had seen our flag, Staff had sent our logo and they printed it, he will look into how it was done.
2.3 Association of Municipalities of Ontario
a) federal gas tax implementation update
2.4 Ontario Municipal Water Association – measures to reduce lead in drinking water, proposal to amend the Drinking Water Systems Regulation
2.5 Organizing Committee for the Doctor’s Appreciation Banquet – profit of $2,056 realized
3 EVENTS
3.1 Centre for Applied Renewable Energy – managing energy use seminar
3.2 Fair Funding for Small Communities of Ontario – July 23rd meeting in South Bruce
Herron will attend with the Treasurer.
REPORTS OF MEMBERS – copies of any written reports to all
HERRON
Was on vacation, had a good trip.
Grey Sauble in process of selecting a Chair for the source water protection committee
BONDERUD
Bulk of time in the last two weeks has been spent on the Paisley Hotel and the Sun Times coverage, people do not have all of the facts. While some complained about separate document pages on the website, it must be accessible for those on dial-up, removed the Sun Times articles, does believe the Sun Times was harassing the CBO, it is unfortunate people have been told that the Paisley Inn is to be demolished when only the back portion is.
Was approached about the farmer’s market at the north end of Paisley, looking for another location, does not think we should let them use municipal land for free when other businesses must pay taxes. Cumming agreed with Bonderud, it would also increase our liability.
Spoke with Emilien Hachey about all the concerns in his letter from the last meeting, hopefully people would go to the Ward Councillor before going to the papers.
Impact Advisory: will be off Council before the next meeting, alternate should attend or appoint another member.
$80,000 raised so far for the Paisley Medical Clinic, Cumming will report further, it is a positive thing that will draw people to Paisley. Cumming added that we have been given an opportunity to participate with the Family Health Team which we may not get again, very important that we take this opportunity. Bonderud added that while health care should be a Provincial responsibility, if we do not do it ourselves we will not have it. Cumming noted the importance of Nurse Practitioners, have more time to discuss health concerns with patients.
EAGLESON
Attended the meeting with Chris LaForest and the Clerk to address our differences, do have a plan to complete our zoning consolidation.
Airport meets this week.
BASWRA seems to be running well
Agrees with Weppler’s report re Brook St, have progressed well for a four-day week last week, should monitor to assess if we should be doing this type of project ourselves in future, gas break was unfortunate, hopes they move along further this week. Suggested sending a letter to Union Gas complimenting them on their emergency response to the gas line break and how efficiently and quickly the affected households were notified.
Would like to get the Rotary Park water sorted by next spring if not this year.
Oswald asked Eagleson if he had any suggestions on starting the Middleton subdivision (when he heard the question, Davis declared a financial interest)—agrees it needs to be kick-started, could look a various options, does not know of anyone with an interest in starting, perhaps the Municipality should get involved.
Report from last meeting re Brook St: the meeting with the Planner and the owner did happen but did not include Eagleson as the owner thought the meeting wouldn’t get too far without official plan and zone changes, it was a positive meeting, the owner was happy with the Planner, will try to provide locations for water services.
DAVIS
Wind towers, was at Primrose showing houses, had an opportunity to look at them closely, thinks we should tour some active sites, get information from the local residents where they are, their locations are close enough to the road that they could fall across roads.
Inquiry about weekly yard sales, do not pay taxes, confirmed we do not regulate them.
CUMMING
Is very grateful for the support from this table for the Medical Clinic. One individual was telling people to give to the hotel instead of the medical clinic.
Is happy something is progressing with Mac Homes subdivision.
Mock disaster planned at Saugeen Airport.
Had an email re Mayor Bagnato saying not to cut the cheque, waiting on response from South Bruce.
Has spent a lot of time in the last week and a half on minor hockey scheduling, has received a suggested schedule change, she is having a Recreation Committee meeting this week with those affected, has been reminded about where the funds came from to construct these arenas. Would like to see as many Councillors as possible at the meeting. Will be contacting people to attend the meeting. Wants this problem solved. Davis suggested having a Triple A representative at the meeting as well.
Medical Clinic fundraising committee is going ahead with the fundraising road toll in August for the clinic.
Officially welcomed Bonderud as the Paisley Fire Chief, does not like to lose him from Council but is looking forward to better relations with the Fire Department.
OSWALD
a) The Mason's do not wish to purchase the former Chesley Library—what would Council like to do with it? (disposal of property should be discussed in closed session)
b) Bruce County OP 5 yr review
c) Invitation from Chesley Legion to attend its Zone C-4 convention
Read his list of meetings and events since the last meeting.
Asked Cumming to attend County Council at the July 26th session as he will be on vacation.
Also congratulated Bonderud on his appointment as Paisley Fire Chief, thanked him for his work on Council and knows he will do a good job.
REPORTS OF MUNICIPAL OFFICERS – copies of written reports to all
1 Henderson, Paddon & Associates Ltd. – report of the Paisley Heights Subdivision work to date
2 Municipal Solicitor – report of sale to Turner complete
3 Brockton Mayor, Charlie Bagnato – called to confirm 10% participation with physician recruitment, does not want cheque cut until South Bruce has confirmed its level of participation
MOTIONS
Moved by: R. Herron Seconded by: R. Bonderud
that we accept the following Works Department quotes:
1. Signs: Mechanical Adv $3,299.73 incl tax
2. McClure Bridge culvert $7,314.07 incl tax
3. Weed spray: Sprucedale $ 7.49 /litre + tax Carried
Moved by: R. Herron Seconded by: R. Bonderud
that accounts payable voucher #13-07 in the amount of $448,727.84 be paid.
Carried
Moved by: R. Herron Seconded by: M. Davis
that we support the United Counties of Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry June 18, 2007 resolution requesting the Province of Ontario to separate the Farmland and Managed Forest component from the Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund and to establish a separate and distinct Provincial funding program with 100% reimbursement to municipalities of their annual lost property tax revenue on farmland and managed forest properties.
Carried
Moved by: R. Bonderud Seconded by: M. Davis
that we support the Municipality of Huron East's June 5, 2007 resolution expressing its frustration with the Ministry of the Environment timelines and delays in obtaining Ministry approvals to carry out amendments to Certificates of and Permits to Take Water. Carried
Moved by: R. Herron Seconded by: P. Eagleson
that, at the request of the Arran-Tara Agricultural Society, we declare Wednesday September 12, 2007 to be a half-holiday in Tara. Carried
Moved by: R. Herron Seconded by: M. Davis
whereas the Municipality is policed by the Ontario Provincial Police under Section 5.1(1) of the Police Services Act,;
and whereas the Municipality is annually billed a proportionate share of the OPP's costs in accordance with O.Reg.420/97;
and whereas based on previous years, the estimated OPP costs for 2006 were $891,768;
and whereas the actual costs for 2006 OPP policing were $656,308;
and whereas the reduction from the 2006 estimate to the actual 2006 costs was due to the redeployment of police officers to the Caledonia Native Standoff site;
and whereas the 26.4% reduction in police services was not evident locally nor did the Municipality receive any complaints about a lack of policing;
now therefore, the Council of the Municipality of Arran-Elderslie asks the Honourable Monte Kwinter, Minister of Community Safety & Correctional Services, to review and reconsider the level of policing provided to the Municipality to a more appropriate level for this area so we may justify our costs to our ratepayers.
Carried
Moved by: R. Bonderud Seconded by: R. Herron
that we approve payment of Mac Homes remaining account with Henderson, Paddon & Associates Ltd. in the amount of $5,647.01 for the Paisley Heights Subdivision;
and that this cost shall be added to the respective property taxes.
Carried
Moved by: R. Herron Seconded by: P. Eagleson
that a by-law to impose rates in respect of money borrowed under the Tile Drainage Act be read a first and second time. Carried
Moved by: R. Herron Seconded by: P. Eagleson
that the by-law to impose rates in respect of money borrowed under the Tile Drainage Act be read a third time, finally passed and numbered 23 - 07. Carried
Moved by: R. Bonderud Seconded by: M. Davis
that we do now adjourn to the call of the Mayor. Carried
Adjourned at 2:30 pm
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MAYOR CLERK