Monday April 25th Regular Town Council Meeting

Well, tonight’s meeting lasted about two and a half hours. While it was a jam packed agenda, it was not as exciting as I had hoped. The gallery was full for the first 45 minutes but this was mainly due to the fact that people came out to support the special events looking for council’s blessing. While I was happy to not be sitting there among only 2 or 3 others I do feel sorry for these volunteers who have to worry about getting permission for their events, seems to me we should be encouraging them not making it harder. I am only going to offer commentary on certain agenda items based on how much debate the item received. Many items passed through with no discussion.

Somehow or other, Councillor Lavigne left partway through the meeting and I didn’t even notice (shame on me!). I looked up from my note-writing and lo and behold, he was gone. I missed him later in the meeting because we sure could have used him to reign things in, but, alas, it was not to be.

Council was still in-camera discussing items ITEM A – Grievance Resolution  and ITEM B – Hobbs Litigation Update when I arrived. This finished up around 5:50.

Regular session started up shortly after 6:00.

Address to Council – Tracey Ramsey, MP for Essex

Shortly before the meeting began, Ms Ramsey was talking to a couple of people that I know and she mentioned she would keep it short and sweet as she had read my blog. She asked who the blogger was, so I gave her a wave. She said she reads my blog!!! (Yay me! So exciting! Our MP reads my thoughts and opinions!)

So, obviously, I have to give a big shout out to Tracey Ramsey for her succinct and precise presentation to council. 🙂 Ms Ramsey said her office is up and running in Essex next door to Taras Natyshak’s office. She is following up on the Boblo Dock issue with the department of fisheries and oceans. As well, there are some funds for summer jobs heading our way. She also mentioned a new disability tax credit that is available. Ms. Ramsey will also be providing monthly reports to council on what she’s doing.

Anyway, all in all, two thumbs up to Ms. Tracey Ramsey MP.

2016 Special Events Approval

The only event that generated significant discussion was the Ride for Dad scheduled for May 29, 2016. It seems that the Legion wants to alter their liquor license for that one day in order to be able to open the bar at 10AM to accommodate this event. Normal opening time is 11AM. The debate went back and forth and back and forth again. Councillor Pouget had questions about liability and insurance and why in the past this was recommended and this year it’s not. Back and forth, forth and back went. Finally, Councillor Lavigne spoke up (it’s about time and hey! I missed you later!) he didn’t want to debate the semantics of people breaking the law with drinking and driving and that he supports this initiative. Councillor Meloche agreed. It goes to a vote and it carries. Bar opens at 10AM that day! (It’s 12:00 somewhere, right?)

DELEGATIONS 11.1 Current Provincial Marine Partnership with the Town for the KNYP Brick Fund – Jennie Lajoie, Provincial Marine

This one got a little complicated. It seems the the personalized bricks in the Navy Yard Park started as a fundraising initiative 15 years ago. Some of the bricks have been damaged through the years and require repair. There was a lot of discussion about there being money in place for this but that going forward we need a plan. Finally, Councillor Fryer requests a full report with various options and he’d like it for the next meeting if possible. The CAO says he’s not sure if it’s possible to have that ready for the next meeting but that it will be in the near future. In the end, the motion passes and a report will be forthcoming sometime.

Community Policing Partnerships (CPP) Program & Safer Communities – 1,000 Officers Partnership (1,000 Officers) Program

OK, this blew my mind. The town receives 3 grants totalling $95,000 towards the policing service. This got debated for quite some time…..(what? Take the money and run, people!) Finally, after some questions, explanations and debate, they accepted the money.

Update on the Deloitte Report

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You would assume this would be all about yay Mr CAO and town staff for working hard and getting the recommendations done. But one should never assume in Amherstburg!! This became about the 5 policies that need to be reviewed and updated. Guess when they’re going to be reviewed? Monday May 2nd. Guess when Monday May 2nd is. Ya, that’s right, next Monday! Just when I was getting used to bi-weekly meetings, we are all back at it next week. Will keep you posted. My dreams are shattered.

Meloche Road Rehabilitation Engineering – RFP Results

Another somewhat lengthy debate. The quality of the asphalt on Meloche Rd (between Alma St and Simcoe St) was up for debate. Some don’t want it fixed, some do and some want to wait for the geo-technical report. This debate got lengthy (and boring – did I ever mention some of our councillors think they’re engineers?) but at the end of the day the motion carried and we will wait for the geo-technical report about what is underneath the surface of the asphalt.

Minor Amendment to Draft Plan of Condominium Approval and Development Agreement – 238 Dalhousie, Echo Riverside Condominiums

There were some amendments to be made to the Echo Condominium building. Councillor Pouget had many questions about the amendments as she did not feel they were minor in nature. The planning department stood firm that all the changes were aesthetic, therefore minor in nature. Councillor Pouget even went so far as to question if anything flammable could be stored in the storage units. The Fire Chief said he had no concerns at all, that all units have sprinklers and flammable fluids have to be stored on the first floor. Councillor Fryer joined the discussion to concur with Councillor Pouget that he did not feel the changes were minor. (Seems they are not only engineers but architects also!!) Again, planning explained that a roof railing and reduction in bay windows etc. was not changing the foot print of the structure and that they are façade changes. Back and forth, back and forth it went. Questions, answers, more questions, more answers. Finally, Councillor Fryer requested a recorded vote (see? it was contentious).

Motion to approve minor amendments to Echo Riverside Condominiums:

In favour: Councillor Courtney, Deputy Mayor DiPasquale, Councillor Meloche, Mayor DiCarlo

Opposed : Councillors Fryer and Pouget

(Councillor Lavigne had left by this time.)

Terms of Reference – Joint Police Advisory Committee & OPP Update

Seems they need 2 councillors to sit on this committee. Three people nominated themselves (ya, I’m serious). Councillor Fryer, Councillor Meloche and Deputy Mayor DiPasquale nominated themselves. Councillor Pouget then nominated Councillor Lavigne. (He was not present but it was confirmed that he was okay with this ahead of time.) This is where it got weird……Councillor Pouget made the motion to put Councillors Lavigne and Fryer on this committee. When it went to a vote, Councillors Courtney, Fryer and Pouget voted for it. Councillor Meloche and Dep Mayor DiPasquale were opposed. The Mayor did not vote, I’m not sure why. So, it was not a wash (3-3 tie) and it won 3-2.

Unfinished business

This is when council can bring up things for discussion that haven’t already been resolved. First thing up, Councillor Pouget asked about a fire truck that was involved in an accident and was seen on a hoist in a repair shop. She wondered about the cost, the status of the truck, if we’re still leasing a replacement truck from Windsor and if there was a police report. The Fire Chief said it’s still being repaired and should be ready in about a month. He said the cost of the repairs are covered by insurance, except the $5000 deductible. The Police Chief said something about the charges being withdrawn by the Crown. (against the driver I’m assuming?) The CAO said we’re only paying $75 per day to rent a fire truck from the City of Windsor and that is a good value. The Mayor seemed to agree and mentioned he may want to rent a fire truck for his own amusement since the price is so reasonable. (Easy Mr. Mayor, you just had a motorcycle accident 6 months ago….Don’t need you driving around town in your own personal fire truck… lol) It’s all good though, his sidekick, the CAO dissuaded him from this idea.

Next order of unfinished business, Councillor Pouget wanted to know what the town’s involvement is with the WE Harvest Fest coming up in September. The CAO explained that this is not a town event and it is being held on Federal property (Fort Malden). Councillor Pouget wanted to know if any tax money including work of town employees is being used towards this event. She was concerned about liability and the pending court case against the Wine Fest. She said that council hasn’t endorsed any employees to work on this.

At this point, Mayor DiCarlo declares a conflict of interest and hands over the chair of the meeting to Deputy Mayor DiPasquale. Mayor DiCarlo serves as the chair of the WE Harvest Fest Committee, but not as mayor, as simply Mr. Aldo DiCarlo. He left the room and Deputy Mayor DiPasquale  took over. There was more back and forth. Much more back and forth. The CAO again explained this is not a town event and that Anne Rota and Jennifer Ibrahim (tourism department) work with many events. He said he’s not preparing a report for council since the town is not participating in the event. It seems because the event is occurring on Federal Property, it is exempt from council approval. Councillor Meloche spoke up saying that we need to embrace events and that they generate a positive impact for our town (just like Communities in Bloom Councillor Pouget, wonder how much we spend on that project???  But maybe that’s a blog for another day 😉  )

As for my councillor of the week, this week I am awarding it to Tracey Ramsey MP! The fact that she came to address council really shows her engagement and commitment to her constituents. I’m not sure if an MP or MPP has ever come before council before to give a report of any type and I have to say I was impressed. I also liked that she kept it short, sweet and to the point. I liked that a lot. 🙂

 

In preparation for Monday April 25th Regular Town Council Meeting

Well, it’s been two weeks already and time for another council meeting. I have to admit I’m enjoying the return to bi-weekly meetings. I’m almost starting to feel spoiled. I hope council is enjoying the breather too.

This week’s agenda is a whopping 395 pages! Plus, a 10 page supplementary agenda! Will I read every single word? Heck, no. Will I skim it and read anything that pops out as interesting? Heck, ya! So, here we go! Monday night looks like it will be a busy night.

OK, I just typed all of that above and the agenda still has not loaded onto my computer. Either, my computer is brutally slow and in need of repair, the agenda is crazy long or I have a mysterious hacker watching what I download. (Sorry, couldn’t resist.) For those of you who are quick and wonder how I knew the agenda was 395 pages before it loaded onto my computer…….I will leave you to speculate on my psychic abilities. (Really, I could tell you the truth, but it’s boring.)

It appears council is going in-camera first (at 5PM) before the regular session begins. They will be discussing :

ITEM A – Grievance Resolution – Section 239(2)(d) – Labour relations or employee negotiations….(Hmmmmm?)

ITEM B – Hobbs Litigation Update – Section 239(2)(e) – Litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board; and, Section 239(2)(f) – Advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose.

As for Item A, I have no idea but am very interested! As for Item B, this reminds me that I forgot to mention in my last blog that none of our councillors declared a conflict of interest prior to the in-camera meeting to discuss the Hobbs litigation update. Hmmmmmm…….At least 2 councillors are reputed to have a close, personal friendship with Mr. Hobbs. Should they be included in discussions subject to “solicitor-client privilege”? Looks like they’ll be discussing this same issue again this week.

The public portion of the meeting consists of many agenda items. I will try to touch on the most interesting (in my OPINION), ones.

Address to Council – Tracey Ramsey, MP for Essex

I did not see anything in the agenda explaining anything about this…..will pay attention and see what happens. If she is addressing council, I hope she knows we like it clear, succinct and to the point here.

DELEGATIONS 11.1 Current Provincial Marine Partnership with the Town for the KNYP Brick Fund – Jennie Lajoie, Provincial Marine

I am interested to hear this delegation about the bricks in the Navy Yard Park. There’s not a lot of information on the agenda about this, but it appears it has to do with funding. Will listen, learn and “report”. lol

Designated Accessible Parking Space Enforcement – Proposed Annual Initiative – Amherstburg Accessibility Advisory Committee

It appears that administration and the Accessibility Advisory Committee are looking at developing a new program to educate people about the lawful way to use the Designated Accessible parking spaces around town. It seems there has been “abuse” and misuse of these spaces on a fairly regular basis. I would think this new initiative should pass through quite quickly and easily, but we will see.

Community Policing Partnerships (CPP) Program & Safer Communities – 1,000 Officers Partnership (1,000 Officers) Program

Looks like this is some type of grant being given towards a police officer’s salary. It appears the town of A’burg has been part of this program since the beginning. Again, I would think this is a “no-brainer” and should pass.

Final Tax Levy By-Law 2016-30

When the budget was completed, not all figures were available. Well, they are now and it looks like the variance report is in and we have collected (or will be collecting) an extra $143,585.00 in taxes than what was planned! (Sweet!) Administration is recommending that the additional funds be transferred to the tax stabilization reserve so that council can manage future unbudgeted expenditures. Again, this looks like it should be easy-peasy too.

Arrears Extension Agreement for Tax Roll No. 3729 130 000 10600

Interesting. I learned something new here to. It appears that if you’re in arrears on your tax payments, council has to approve the repayment terms each year. It looks like, in general, this is preferable to a “tax sale”.

2015 Yearend Capital Report

Um…..ok…..this is page after page of numbers for the accountants. (Boring. No offence to accountants.)

2016 Year End (Draft) Actuals Compared to Budget

This report is a little clearer only because it has a short resume in the report. Otherwise, it is pages and pages of accounting documents…..but looks like overall we will have a surplus of $473,000.00 this year. Kudos to council! Kudos to town administration! Kudos to the Mayor! Hooray everyone! Looks like we came in under budget overall, even though there were some hefty variances. Council expenses were down $43,000 compared to what was budgeted. It seems partly because of less per-diems’ paid out for day time meetings (yay!!!), but also very little was spent on training and conferences for our councillors (boo!). Many departments showed a favourable variance for a wide variety of reasons. However, the fire department (I’m sure this will be no surprise), was over budget by $350,000 plus another $80,000 for equipment needs. So, if my math is correct, the fire department was $430,000 over budget. Holy cow Bat Man! The fact that we managed to have a surplus overall after such a budget overage in one department must be a real phenomenon. Looks like administration wants to use some of the surplus towards a Roads Needs Study.

Update on the Deloitte Report

Well readers, I don’t think I can say this any better than it shows up in the report on the Deloitte Report (yes, a report on a report, funny)…

“Administration has now completed and implemented solutions for all 41 of the 41 recommendations contained in the Deloitte report, as per the attached Appendix “A”. This work has been completed well in advance of the 24 month timeline established by the Deloitte report. Restoring confidence in the Town’s ability to manage its finances and operations is paramount and will be a positive step forward in improving relations between the Town and its residents and will also position the Town positively for future investment opportunities.”

Not much more to say, all 41 recommendations done and ahead of schedule. Great job!!

Accounts Payable

The bills are in and it’s time to pay up. I couldn’t help but notice a few cheques are being written to various organizations in regards to Canada Day. I have to assume that its Canada Day 2015 for services rendered as I can’t see that we would pay in advance for this year. That being said, um, we are a lot closer to Canada Day 2016 than we are to 2015…..doesn’t it seem a bit late to be paying people for services rendered 10 months ago? Maybe not, maybe it’s just me…..who knows? We also paid out just over $4,000 to the integrity commissioner. Another interesting tidbit. And drum roll please…….we paid out a big fat zero in legal fees! (Unless I missed them, then oops, sorry, don’t sue me. Lol) Yay! That’s some good news!

Windsor River Cruises Agreement

Looks like, if approved, we will have a cruise ship (a small one people, no Royal Carribean mega-ship) stopping in Amherstburg twice this summer. I can only see the positives of this initiative and would guess (and hope) that this will pass through easily.

Meloche Road Rehabilitation Engineering – RFP Results

The prices are in…..will the road get fixed? Which bid will council choose? We’ll see Monday night…..

2016 Culvert Rehabilitation Program – Tender Results

More prices are in…..just reading it and I’m yawning. Don’t foresee this part being a highlight Monday night, but who knows? Anything is possible.

Minor Amendment to Site Plan Elevations at 140 Simcoe Street, Suds R Us

I think the title says it all here.

Minor Amendment to Draft Plan of Condominium Approval and Development Agreement – 238 Dalhousie, Echo Riverside Condominiums

Again, refer to the title.

2016 Special Events Approval

• Amherstburg Minor Baseball Opening Day Parade – May 7, 2016
• Amherstburg Minor Hockey Parade-May 7, 2016
• Ride for Dad – May 29, 2016
• Amherstburg’s Gone Car Crazy – July 24, 2016
• Amherstburg Rotary Ribfest – July 8, 9 and 10, 2016
• River Lights Heritage Holiday Hop – November 18, 2016
• River Lights Ignite the Night – November 19, 2016
• River Lights Holiday House Tours – December 3 and 4, 2016

I truly did not realize how many events we had in our beautiful town. I knew we had a lot of events, but since this current council mandated and forced them all to come before council each year, I have a real sense of how many great things happen in our town. Not only great things, but even greater people who devote countless hours to make them happen! Tonight, there are 8 more events seeking approval. Through the last few months, I think I’ve seen at least 12 to 15 events approved. Some were approved with no debate, a little debate or extensive debate. Will wait and see if these are debated or rubber-stamped through like most of the others.

2016 Spay and Neuter Voucher Program

This is a new program for Amherstburg. It appears that 100 vouchers will be distributed (with varied, but strict criteria) to have cats spayed or neutered. I think we can all see the value of this program and the obvious consequences of not having such a program.

INFORMATION REPORTS

RECOMMENDATION That the information reports BE RECEIVED:

1. a) Employee Benefits Brokerage
2. b) February 2016 Reserve Fund and Restricted Cash Update
3. c) 50 Million Trees Program
4. d) Municipal Grass Cutting – In House vs. Contracted Services
5. e) Asphalt Repairs Safety Concerns
6. f) Heavy Vehicles on Alma Street and Howard Avenue
7. g) Update on Streetlight at Willow Beach Road and Concession 3 South

Looks like we’ll get a few updates on some smaller, on-going issues. Let’s see what happens with these.

Terms of Reference – Joint Police Advisory Committee & OPP Update

This was added as a supplementary item to Monday’s agenda. Looks like they need 2 members of council to serve on this committee.

 

Overall, this is one jam-packed agenda. Will I be able to stay awake through all of this? Can I, once again, count on Councillor Lavigne to keep his colleagues on-point and focused on the task at hand? If not, I can easily see how such a packed agenda could easily derail into a long, very long, very, very long meeting. Maybe Councillor Fryer and I will have another “moment” of agreement? Who will win councillor of the week? What will my criteria be? I’ve already decided on one thing…..if anybody mentions the thickness of asphalt, they’re out of the running for my award this week. Anybody who can keep this show on the road and get ‘er done, is heading to councillor of the week status.

 

Monday April 11th 2016 Regular Town Council Meeting

Well, ladies and gentlemen, I’m going to go out of order on my blog tonight because well, something too important happened tonight. Maybe “too important” is the wrong term, how about down right shocking?

During a short 5 minute break in the middle of the meeting, I was approached by Councillor Pouget. She feels I have written defamatory things about her in this blog. She made reference to Amherstburg Election Project Page on Facebook as well as my blog. I told her I would gladly review if there was something specifically defamatory about her and edit. Apparently, she doesn’t like that I point out my feelings that she asks endless amounts of questions. She said she has that right to ask all the questions she wishes. I agree, she does. I also have the right to my opinion. She said that I don’t “report” the fact that she also makes motions. Apparently she thinks I’m a reporter. HELLO! I’m a blogger who is stating my thoughts and opinions, I’m no reporter.

Is this surprising to you? Are you shocked she would be so concerned with my (insert sarcastic tone) “reporting”. Well hold on to your hats Amherstburg!!!  She told me she’s spoken with 3 lawyers in the past 2 weeks about what I’ve written and she doesn’t want to bring it to a that level, but…….. But?…..But what? Was this supposed to be some type of veiled threat? I don’t know. I told her that she is a public politician and I am entitled to my opinion about public political meetings just like anybody else. Basically, I think I was being given a “polite” message to shut up and be quiet or else…..Really? Really???

What a sad, new low for Amherstburg politics. Just when we thought it couldn’t get any worse than Councillor Fryer threatening a lawsuit against a citizen and then, I believe, asking for reimbursement with public funds for the lawsuit fees, whammo-bammo we dive down even further. What makes me laugh is that Councillor Pouget has an illustrious history of speaking her mind and butting heads with people she disagrees with; past Councillor Hamilton, Mayor Hurst, Fire Chief Sinasac, past CAO Mike Phipps just to name a few. For her to make an awkward attempt to silence me with, what I feel, is a thinly veiled threat is quite disappointing.

I have received much positive feedback about my blog and my Facebook comments from not only friends and family, but complete strangers. My blog is intended to be light, funny, entertaining, and above all MY OPINION. I would suggest if you don’t find it to be any of these 4 things, then stop reading now because your town councillors had a week off and they sure made up for it this week.

Public service announcement over. On to the meeting.

Overall, it was a pretty exciting meeting. The gavel got pounded (a few times!) and there were 2 recorded votes.

Minutes of previous meetings:

• Special In-Camera Council Meeting – October 26, 2015 (as amended)
• 2. Regular Council Meeting Minutes – March 21, 2016
• 3. Special Council Meeting Minutes – March 29, 2016

Like last time, Councillor Fryer declared pecuniary interest for the in-camera minutes from October 26, 2015. So, the minutes were amended from a 6 month old meeting. (weird) The motion passed to accept the minutes for all three meetings. At the risk of being sued (LOL) I think there is something fishy going on with that October 26 meeting and when I figure it out I’ll be the first to “report” on it. (wink-wink)

Review of Amherstburg Fire Protection Services and Emergency Management – Nelly Green & Les Brinkworth, Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management

This was the Ontario Fire Marshall’s (OFM) report about the town of Amherstburg Fire Department. Basically, the OFM presented their findings and the next steps to help improve the operations of the fire department. They evaluated three main areas, public education, fire safety standards and enforcement as well as emergency response. The OFM thanked administration for their time and help etc. Councillor Fryer asked if they spoke to front line fire fighters and they replied yes. Councillor Meloche asked a few questions about finding balance and the time line required for the recommendations. Councillor Courtney questioned the wording in the recommendations, “council should”, “council shall”, and how this impacts council. (I wonder if she reads my blog, I mentioned this observation yesterday LOL.) Councillor Pouget thanked the OFM for their presentation. She began to ask a question and started to talk about the 2 terminated fire fighters. The Mayor pounded the gavel and told Councillor Pouget that this report is from the OFM and has nothing to do with the 2 individuals. Councillor Pouget again questioned how the report addressed their concerns and again, the Mayor pounded the gavel. (He actually looked like he was ready to jump out of his chair, but that’s just my opinion, don’t sue me.) Councillor Pouget then said she had a list of 30 questions and a motion prepared. (my opinion: 30 questions??!! really??!! this meeting may never end) The Mayor reminded Councillor Pouget to stay focused on the report and to continue. She then asked a question about the Health and Safety Committee and the Chief said they meet monthly. (There were several more questions from various councillors, I won’t go into them all, or I’ll be here all night. ) The OFM said they have studied and reported on various communities, some bigger, some smaller, some the same as Amherstburg and there are often 20-35 recommendations, so therefore our 27 recommendations were nothing out of the ordinary. There was a motion to receive the report and it passed.

Still on the OFM report , Councillor Pouget presented a motion requesting a full report from the OFM, regarding who is responsible for the violations, the time frame to impose the recommendations and the anticipated cost. (I wrote this by hand, if there is a mistake, I apologize and politely request that you don’t call your lawyer.)

(And then, it happened……I still have trouble believing it…Councillor Fryer made a statement that I agreed with……it really was an anything is possible kind of night.) Councillor Fryer said he didn’t want to lay blame and look back, we could go back 3 or 4 chiefs and it really doesn’t matter, that things are always on the negative, there are still open wounds in the fire department and that we need to move forward with the report now and the recommendations. (My heart melted, my eyes fluttered, should Councillor Lavigne be worried I may fall for another? Stay tuned.) Councillor  Courtney asked if the “blame part” could be removed from the motion. Councillor Pouget agreed as did Councillor Lavigne who had seconded the motion. So, the motion was amended to take out the part about who was responsible for the violations and it passed unanimously in a recorded vote. (See? Maybe we can all just get along)  (Side note, the chief and deputy chief mentioned needing “resources” many times, I think they’re referring to cold, hard cash, should be interesting….stay tuned.)

There was a short 5 minute recess. (Note to self, never leave council chambers alone again. But I had to pee!)

DELEGATIONS 6.1 Waiving of Farmers Market Vendor Fees – Steeve Bouchard

Mr. Bouchard was asking to have the fees waived for the farmer’s market. It seems the majority of markets in Ontario don’t pay fees. Also seems we have a new by-law that was putting fees up to around $3600, but administration was recommending a reduction to $625. After a short debate, the fees were waived completely for the farmer’s market.

Living History Weekend- Jennie Lajoie

Ms. Lajoie made a short presentation to invite council to the Provincial Marine’s Living History weekend on April 23 & 24, 2016 from 10AM – 4PM. She said something about firing the canon at noon. Cool. (I was somewhat distracted during this part of the meeting. I was seething that I was being threatened to shut up, very nicely I might add.) 

Sunday Market Wellness Stroll – New Proposed 2016 Event

The report was in with more information for the proposed Sunday Market Wellness Stroll. The Chamber of Commerce (in their “take over the world” plot), was asking to use the King’s Navy Yard Park one Sunday per month for passive activity like yoga and meditation in the morning, followed by vendors in the clock and fountain area entrance. Councillor Courtney said she felt that council should encourage people willing to organize and bring people to town and to be positive. She did question what would happen if there were a lot of rain the day before, if the event would be cancelled, so as not to damage the grass. Councillor Pouget expressed her opposition to this initiative, citing the former town fathers and their vision for a passive park. A lengthy back and forth began. The CAO explained that having staff to ensure town property and functions were compliant and could provide oversight to events. Councillor Pouget was adamant that the park must be passive and she would not support the event. Councillor Fryer agreed. (Then, the moment came again……my heart skipped a beat…..Councillor Lavigne jumped in.) Councillor Lavigne talked about how so many parks worldwide have yoga in the park and have passive activities to generate a sense of community in their parks. He said he doesn’t have a problem trying it out and waiving the by-law. He wished the organizers luck and said he hopes it goes well. (my knight in shining armour was back with logic and common sense, I like that. So sorry Councillor Fryer we had a moment but it’s gone) The organizers explained that it’s yoga or activities on the grass, as simple as playing Frisbee on the grass, feet on the grass, no tent holes and they certainly don’t intend to cause any damage to the grass or other. Finally, it goes to a recorded vote:

Support: Councillor Courtney, Deputy Mayor DiPasquale, Councillor Lavigne, Councillor Meloche, Mayor DiCarlo.

Oppose: Councillor Fryer and Councillor Pouget.

The rest of the meeting passed through without event and all in all, the meeting lasted about 2 hours.

As for Councillor of the Week this week, I just can’t decide. There were quite a few who impressed me with logic and well reasoned questions and comments. I know who’s not getting my vote this week…LOL. Remember folks, I’m not a reporter, just a blogger calling it as she sees it.

In preparation for Monday April 11th Regular Town Council Meeting

I’m baaaaaaaaaaaaack!!!!! Just have to say it was fantastic having a week off from town politics. Dare I hope that council will stick to meeting every two weeks? Anyway, read through the 282 page agenda and here’s my preview for tomorrow night’s meeting:

Of special note….there is an in-camera meeting (again???!!!) scheduled after the regular meeting tomorrow night. They will be discussing:

ITEM A – Hobbs Litigation – Section 239(2)(e) – Litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board.

ITEM B – Toppi Litigation Update – Section 239(2)(e) – Litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board; and, Section 239(2)(f) – Advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose.

Well, well, well…..here we go! As for Item A, everybody knows Mr Hobbs was banned from town property for one year. He and his lawyer had spoken to the media shortly after this happened and had said there would be a meeting with the CAO and that the ban should be removed. It seems that it was not, considering there is now litigation about it. At least two of our councillors are close, personal friends with Mr. Hobbs. Will they recuse themselves and declare a conflict about discussing this? If Mr Hobbs is suing the town, how much is this going to cost the taxpayers? Really?

As for the Toppi Litigation…..I had no idea what that one’s about. So, a quick Google search indicates this has something to do with a 9 Million dollar lawsuit against the town regarding the flooding that happened a few years ago.

Minutes of previous meetings:

Here it is again! The minutes from the in-camera meeting dating back to October 2015 is up for amendment??!! This is the meeting where Councillor Fryer was seeking reimbursement for his legal fees from threatening a frivolous lawsuit against a resident because Councillor Fryer didn’t like the resident’s comment on Facebook. This was also the meeting where members of the public and the media were kicked outside to wait for the report-out after the meeting…….hmmmmm……

• 1. Special In-Camera Council Meeting – October 26, 2015 (as amended)
• 2. Regular Council Meeting Minutes – March 21, 2016
• 3. Special Council Meeting Minutes – March 29, 2016

So to keep everyone up to speed…At the last meeting, council had agreed to have an in-camera meeting (again) after the regular session to listen back on the audio tape of the prior in-camera meeting to decide on the amendment on the minutes of the in-camera meeting. (Are you starting to think something stinks?…ya, me too.) Again, why are in-camera minutes being amended six months after the meeting took place? How does this fit in with the promises of transparency and accountability?  Unfortunately, we may never know because it was all handled in-camera in a secret meetings, closed to the public. The meeting is being investigated by the Ombudsman however, so maybe the residents will find out the truth eventually.

Delegations: 

Living History Weekend

April 23 & 24, 2016 – Jennie Lajoie. This was added as a supplementary item, will wait and see what is being presented.

Review of Amherstburg Fire Protection Services and Emergency Management – Nelly Green & Les Brinkworth, Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management

This is a very lengthy report about health and safety infractions against the Fire Department. I didn’t read it all word for word as I am pretty sure Councillor Pouget will question it line by line tomorrow night and will probably try to  blame everything on her favourite scapegoat, the past fire chief. As for me, I glanced through and all I could think was how could certain councillors not support hiring a dedicated Health and Safety Officer. When the budget was presented, the CAO had budgeted for a dedicated Health and Safety Officer. Councillors Courtney, Fryer, Lavigne and Pouget did not support this! At the time, the entire town knew there had been health and safety issues, in particular with the fire department, yet they did not support hiring a dedicated Health and Safety Officer!?! Then, low and behold, more health and safety issues cropped up at the Libro Centre. Once again, the CAO requested hiring a Health and Safety Officer. This happened at the Febuary 22nd meeting. At this time, the issue was reconsidered and Councillor Lavigne voted in favour to hire a health and safety officer, along with Mayor DiCarlo, Deputy Mayor DiPasquale and Councillor Meloche, all of whom had supported this from the beginning. Councillor Courtney was absent from that meeting. However, Councillors Fryer and Pouget voted, yet again, against hiring a Health and Safety officer!!!!! I wonder who will ask the most questions about this health and safety report?

I can’t help but notice that almost every recommendation in this report begins with : “The Municipal Council of Amherstburg shall ensure” or “The Municipal Council of Amherstburg should ensure”, so does this mean Council wasn’t doing their due diligence in regards to Health and Safety in the Fire department? Also, if anyone is quick to blame previous councils, it’s important to note Councillor Pouget and Deputy Mayor DiPasquale were members of previous council (Councillor Pouget has served for a few terms too) and Councillor Fryer served on the previous term. Hmmm….can’t wait to see how this plays out tomorrow night. How will council have time to watch over the fire department when they’re spending time counting pennies over the cost of paper clips?

DELEGATIONS 6.1 Waiving of Farmers Market Vendor Fees – Steeve Bouchard

There’s not much info there, but it looks like Mr. Bouchard is looking to have fees waived for the Farmers market vendors. Ironically, some fees are waived quickly and easily for certain people or organizations, others are waived only after at-length discussion and others aren’t waived at all. Will have to wait and see where this one falls.

Accounts Payable

Accounts payable is reviewed and approved every two weeks by council. Not much of interest here, except we paid out another $22 000.00 or so in legal fees.

Amherstburg Farmers Market Request for Reduction in User Fee

Here’s the report in relation to Mr. Bouchard’s delegation. Will listen and see what happens.

Decision of Drainage Tribunal for the Ouellette Drain East

Wow. There’s a bunch of appeals about the Ouellette Drain. Appears that the Committee that council appointed to make the decisions regarding drains for them, made some decisions and now they’re getting appealed. How will council handle this? Super lengthy report…..

Sunday Market Wellness Stroll – New Proposed 2016 Event

Two weeks ago, this event was presented to council. The Chamber of Commerce is proposing to have yoga or meditation in the Kings Navy Yard Park during four Sundays (one each in June, July, August and September), to be followed by vendors and shopping in the down town area (fruit, flowers, vegetables and frequenting local stores etc.). The decision about this was deferred last time, since council felt they needed more information. Well, the report is in, more information is in…..will council waive the fees for this event?  Some fees are waived quickly and easily for certain people or organizations, others are waived only after at-length discussion and others aren’t waived at all…..

Overall, it looks like a pretty full agenda. Again, I’m putting some faith in Councillor Lavigne to keep his colleagues on track and focused. Here’s to hoping council can get through the agenda in a timely manner!

 

 

No meeting Monday April 4th

Well, well, well…..there’s no meeting tomorrow night! When I checked the calendar, it appears that council is going back to a meeting every two weeks schedule. Next meeting is scheduled Monday April 11th. Many people ask me or comment that they can’t believe I sit through these weekly meetings and wonder how I do it. The only answer I have is that it’s just pure determination.

So, this return to bi-weekly meeting could mean any one or more of the following:

• Policies are reviewed, updated and done
• Council is ready to go back to bi-weekly meetings, which was the norm for many years
• they just wanted a night off
• late Christmas present
• someone knew I needed a week off now and again

Regardless the reason, I find this hopeful. I think it shows things are looking up and we can get to business every two weeks. On the other hand, I also hope that with bi-weekly meetings that the amount of time required for each meeting will not increase. I don’t think a bi-weekly schedule should mean that meetings can last a ridiculous amount of time. In my opinion, much more than two hours starts to be problematic.

Anyway, looks like you’ll only be hearing from me every two weeks now, unless something changes. Didn’t want anyone to worry about me. I’ve not been kidnapped and locked in a basement, I’ve not disappeared and I’ve certainly not given up. I wonder what I will do tomorrow night? I’m sure I’ll think of something.