Monday April 26th Regular town council meeting

And tonight’s meeting was…..well…..just like it’s supposed to be I think. It was pretty uneventful and not overly exciting nor was it dominated by pontification. Gives me hope for the future LOL! The meeting was all wrapped up at 7:29 PM!!! 

Council started their meetings at 4:00 with an in-camera meeting. 

SPECIAL IN-CAMERA COUNCIL MEETING

That Council move into an In-Camera Meeting of Council at 4:00 p.m. pursuant to Section 239 of the Municipal Act, 2001, as amended for the following reason: Item A – Section 239(2)(d) – Labour relations or employee negotiations; and, Section 239(2)(f) – Advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose. 

Then, they had a planning meeting at 5:00. 

And here’s the summary for the regular meeting held at 6:00. 

DELEGATIONS

Honouring the Accomplishments of Local Immigrants – Betty Federico, Frank Di Pasquale, and Mike Di Pietro

Mr DiPasquale was the first to address council. It was explained that Mr DiPietro was unable to attend tonight’s meeting. Mr DiPasquale said that he wanted to start by thanking the Mayor, council and administration for their hard work and perseverance leading us through the pandemic and for continuing to move Amherstburg forward. He felt that they should be thanked by all of the residents. 

Mr DiPasquale then spoke about the contribution of the Italian families to the Amherstburg community through the years. He explained about a book written by Mr Dinardo, titled Za Mari My Immigrant Mother. He felt that the book explained the story of the Italian immigrants to the area. He spoke of the resentment and the rejection that they felt after their immigration here to Canada. He explained that they had opportunities here to earn their way and that the Italian community is part of the cultural fabric. 

Mr DiPasquale then explained the history about Mr Orland DeLuca and his brother Mr Armand DeLuca and their contributions to Amherstburg. He expressed his hope that council would support the naming of a park as DeLuca Park. Mr DiPasquale also requested council’s support to have the help of Anne Rota with the planning of a monument in the Kings Navy Yard Park that would be privately funded. The statue would depict a father walking with a suitcase, while his child clings on his pants begging him to stay. The father will head to the new world to work until he has enough money to send for his family. And finally, the delegation will also ask council for Ann Rota’s help to organize an Italian Festival to honour their families for next year, depending on the pandemic. (This brings me back to my childhood days when I used to go to the Verdi Festival every summer with my parents…..) Mr DiPasquale said that the Italian community had had many successes and he was hopeful that council would consider their requests. 

Ms Federico spoke next. She also thanked the Mayor and council for listening to their requests. She spoke about her brothers and their many contributions to the area and how they helped many of the new Italian immigrants to the area. She spoke of her life on Texas Road and how humbled she was to be approached about this proposal. She was hopeful that the community would get behind their ideas and we would all find a way to make it a success. 

Mr DiPasquale felt that immigration is now a big part of Canadian history. He spoke of the mass immigration to Canada after World War II and how people arrived with nothing other than a suitcase with some clothing. He expressed that Mr DiNardo’s book had brought back many memories. He was hopeful that the Canadian Italian Festival would be a success and wanted everybody to attend. (I love patios and festivals…..I’ll be there! And I know that Amherstubrg loves patios and festivals too…..so I’ll see you all there! LOL)

Deputy Mayor Meloche spoke first. He thanked them and said he had already read part of the book and was really enjoying it. He felt that the Italian Community had put Amherstburg on the map. 

Councillor Prue then spoke. He also said he is enjoying the book and that he’s not quite finished it yet. He wanted to clarify that the delegation was asking for four things. The first was a park named DeLuca Park, the second was the statue, the third was the festival and the fourth was the museum. Councillor Prue felt that the park naming requests are vetted by the Historical Committee and documented, therefore he was hopeful that this request would be approved by the committee. However, he felt that since the statue that Mr DiPasquale described already existed in Italy that it would be better to depict a family reuniting at the train station. He felt that reunification should be the theme. He felt that the delegates would need to find an exact location, get permission to build, get proper insurance and get a permit with a timeline in place. He felt that this would be the responsibility of the Italian Community. Mr DiPasquale explained that they would fundraise privately and that they want to gift the statue to the town. Councillor Prue felt that the Italian Canadian Festival is a great idea and felt that administration will work with the community to help organize such a festival. Mr DiPasquale expressed that they need the help of Ms Rota since she has organized some wonderful festivals. He felt that she had been subject to unfounded criticism as well and that she does a great job. Then Councillor Prue felt that the idea of an Italian museum is a brilliant idea but that the group would have to find a place to house it. Councillor Prue felt that there were 5 heritage buildings on Boblo Island that had been saved and that maybe Mr Amicone would have a soft spot and allow the group to use one of those buildings. Councillor Prue felt that Canada is a very culturally diverse country but that these initiatives would have to be initiated by Mr DiPasquale and the Italian Community. 

Councillor Courtney spoke. He wondered about the cost of the book and wanted to pay for it. He was saddened that Mr DiPietro was not present since he wanted to take a screenshot of the meeting and then have it autographed by Mr DiPietro. Councillor Courtney also thanked the delegation. 

Councillor Simone spoke and shared her agreement. She hoped that a grassroots organization could be created to get these projects to fruition. 

Councillor McArthur also thanked the delegates. He felt they showed the strength of the Italian Community. He said that he spoke with Mayor DiCarlo who shared some stories of racism that he endured. He also spoke with Staff Sergeant DeLuca about his grandfather’s house on Texas Road where the immigrants would go to seek help to get settled. Councillor McArthur concurred that we have a very proud Italian history in Amherstburg. 

Councillor Renaud also spoke and said that immigration has made our country what it is today. He hoped for success for the plans. 

Mayor DiCarlo thanked the delegates and offered his help. He also said he had read the whole book and that the book could really be about any immigrant family coming to Canada. 

The delegations were then received. 

2020 Budget PSAB Compliant (O.Reg 284/09)

This passed with no discussion. 

Court Security Prisoner Transportation Program – 2021 Funding Agreement 

This item also passed with no discussion. 

2021 Public Event Approvals

Just a little backstory here…. The old council had created a bylaw that council had to approve any public events. Previous to that, events were prepared and went through various approvals (by-law etc) through town administration. Then, the old council changed that to council approval being required. It was contentious at the time and ALL of the events would have to come and plead before council for approval. Eventually, they generally became rubber stamped anyway. 

Now, it seems that administration is asking council to delegate the authority back to administration in order to approve any events and road closures etc for the 2021 calendar year. Due to COVID there are ever-changing requirements and last minute changes at the provincial level. 

Deputy Mayor Meloche wondered how many events we may even see happening this year. (I know I am really looking forward to Open Air Weekends……hoping that they don’t get cancelled! I don’t even want to think about it!) Ms Rota said that at the moment there are only two requests and that there are usually 5 or 6 by now. Councillor Prue said that on page 83 of the report it showed 3 event applications. Ms Rota explained that one application had withdrawn. One of the current applications is from the University of Windsor for their convocation and that they had chosen the Kings Navy Yard Park. The other request is for a yoga session in the park on Sunday mornings. She said that they wanted to work with the organisations since the regulations often change in a day and that an entire team is involved in the process (such as fire, police, the bylaw department, the Clerk’s department etc.). 

Councillor Prue then made the motion since the powers would revert back to council at the end of 2021, where he felt it should be. However, he felt that the more that can be done on short notice to help Amherstburg, the better. Councillor Simone wondered if it would be possible for council to get an email or something in the agenda to let them know if any events are proceeding. They were assured they would get that. Then the motion carried. Administration will be able to approve events this year only due to the constant twists and turns of regulations and the pandemic. 

Suitability for Development on Private Septic System on one Severed Lot on Front Road N

This item was approved with no discussion. 

Zoning By-law Amendment for 1459 Front Road North

Ditto. Approved with no discussion. 

Zoning By-law Amendment for E/S Concession 7

And again. Approved with no discussion. I’m feeling kind of spoiled right now.

Inclusive Community Program (ICP) Initiative and Advisory Steering Committee 

This appears to be a new committee that will be formed. Here are the recommendations: 

It is recommended that:

 1. The Inclusive Community Program Advisory Steering Committee BE STRUCK to serve from April 26, 2021 to March 31, 2022 as outlined in the report of April 2, 2021 entitled, Inclusive Community Program (ICP) Advisory Steering Committee; 

2. The ICP Advisory Steering Committee Terms of Reference BE ADOPTED as presented;

3. Members BE APPOINTED to the ICP Advisory Steering Committee as per the Terms of Reference: a. William Whittall (current AAAC Chair); b. Kathy DiBartolomeo (current SAC Chair); c. Councillor Marc Renaud; d. Christine Easterbrook, (current Member of AAAC) e. Heather Vandenham, (current Member of the SAC) f. The Director, President or Vice President of the Amherstburg Freedom Museum; and, g. The Executive Director of the Essex County Nurse Practitioner Led Clinic; 

4. An over-expenditure in the CAO’s Office budget centre, professional fees expense account, not to exceed $60,000 including net HST BE APPROVED to be funded by the Inclusive Community Grant Program; and,

5. The CAO BE AUTHORIZED to execute the one-time agreement with the Province of Ontario – Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility in accordance with Section 6.2.18 of the Delegation of Powers and Duties Policy.

Deputy Mayor Meloche said he would support the item but wondered if there would be a financial impact in the future. Grant money is paying for this program for this year. 

The CAO said that the committee would be building a road map for an inclusive community or an “age friendly community”. They would look at the services that would be required. He explained that this is a one time expense covered by grant money but the plan would likely include recommendations that would have to be budgeted for. 

Councillor McArthur talked about the new committee would be able to create quality of life strategies. The CAO felt that once the program is complete, there would be pillars identified and solutions found. 

Finally, the motion carried. 

New Business

Deputy Mayor Meloche asked some questions about letters received in the McGregor area for downspout disconnection. 

Councillor Simone asked about a call received about residents on Pickering that had grass torn up for work to be done and it was not put back after the work was done. (Seems the area had work done in 2018 and there is a one year maintenance period…..so looks like they’ll be looking into that.)

Councillor Simone noticed some new headings in the agenda. The CAO explained that the titles of the departments were now in line with the Service Delivery Review. The responsibilities of the departments hadn’t changed but the name changes were updated. Councillor Simone mentioned that council had received the Service Delivery Review (SDR) and wondered if council needed to do anything else at this time. (I hope everybody remembers that important document that went hand in hand with our budget…..I know I provided the link several times….it’s a fascinating read with tons of information.) There was some back and forth if direction was needed from council to be able to implement the documentl. Deputy Mayor Meloche felt it was an important report and felt that Councillor Simone had made a good point. The CAO said his latest action based on the SDR was the grant application. Councillor Courtney felt that it was a robust report but that he did not agree with it and he had a lot of concerns about the document. He felt that it shouldn’t be treated as a guiding report. (How unfortunate……the report was chock full of data and analysis of our town…..his comments inspired me to go find the link for anybody who hasn’t read the SDR yet….if you’re interested in data, planning and facts, here is the link to the full report https://pub-amherstburg.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=1966  )

Councillor McArthur wondered about the funding request for the Big Creek Trail. The CAO said that it is in the 2021 work plan. 

And then…..the meeting was wrapping…..and it adjourned at 7:29PM!!! I felt like I won the lottery!! And here I am typing up my blog summary on the very night of the actual meeting!!! Just like the good old days!!! LOL! Could this happen again in two weeks??? Do I dare to dream? 

See you in two weeks Amherstburg! Stay safe! Just think we’ll be two weeks closer to the lock down being over? Maybe? 

In preparation for Monday April 26th Regular Town council meeting

This week’s meetings start at 4:00…..first, there is an in-camera meeting scheduled at 4PM. Then the planning meeting is at 5PM. And of course, the regular meeting at 6PM. The agenda for the regular meeting is a light 256 pages, with really no heavy interest items that I could see. So, if a couple of members of council can avoid pontificating Monday night, this should realistically wrap up by 7PM……That’s a pretty big if, so I’m not going to hold my breath….. 

The in-camera meeting discussion at 4:00 will be about the following two items:

SPECIAL IN-CAMERA COUNCIL MEETING

That Council move into an In-Camera Meeting of Council at 4:00 p.m. pursuant to Section 239 of the Municipal Act, 2001, as amended for the following reason: Item A – Section 239(2)(d) – Labour relations or employee negotiations; and, Section 239(2)(f) – Advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose. 

DELEGATIONS

Honouring the Accomplishments of Local Immigrants – Betty Federico, Frank Di Pasquale, and Mike Di Pietro

This delegation will be talking about the contribution of the Italian families to the Amherstburg community through the years. In the delegation form they explain about Mr DiNardo’s book, titled Za Mari My Immigrant Mother.  The delegate lists the many contributions of Italian Immigrants to our community and explains a brief history of their challenges. 

The delegation will be requesting that a park be named DeLuca Park to honour the DeLuca families and their many contributions. As well, they are asking for council’s permission to erect a statue in the Kings Navy Yard Park that would be funded privately. The statue would depict a father walking with a suitcase, while his child clings on his pants begging him to stay. The father will head to the new world to work until he has enough money to send for his family. And finally, the delegation will also ask council for Ann Rota’s help to organize an Italian Festival to honour their families. (This brings me back to my childhood days when I used to go to the Verdi Festival every summer with my parents…..)

2020 Budget PSAB Compliant (O.Reg 284/09)

This item seems to be about the budget process and compliance with provincial regulations. It’s kind of a dull read (sorry to any accountants or numbers enthusiasts out there! LOL) 

This is from the background portion of the report : 

“Ontario municipalities are required to present the annual financial statements on the basis compliant with Public Sector Accounting Board (PSAB) principles for full accrual accounting, including disclosure of a PSAB compliant budget. This report outlines conversion of the Town’s cash based budget, used to derive the municipal tax levy, to a PSAB compliant budget for disclosure in the financial statements. The municipality is not required to include the following in its annual cash based budget:  

• amortization of capital assets,
• post-employment benefits and 
• solid waste landfill closure and post-closure costs.

Section 2(1) O. Reg.284/09 states that the municipality shall prepare and adopt a report about the excluded expenses before adopting a budget for the year. 

Each year Council considers a budget that has been prepared on a cash basis including the amount required to purchase or construct capital assets and to make annual payments on long term debt. The O. Reg.284/09 requires that a reconciliation be done between the cash based budget and the PSAB compliant budget disclosed in the municipal financial statements.”

If you found that interesting, I suggest you go take a read. The report is only 5 pages long so that’s not too bad if this type of thing is of interest to you. 

Court Security Prisoner Transportation Program – 2021 Funding Agreement 

It seems that the current agreement for the Court Security and Prisoner Transportation Program expired on December 31, 2020. It looks like in March, the town was notified that the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services will be continuing the program and providing funding. 

It seems that in the past the agreement was between the Ministry and the Police Services Board. However, that changed in 2019 and now the agreement is to be between the Ministry and the municipality. Therefore, this will need council approval to continue. 

Final Tax Rate By-Law 2021-010

This is another one for the accountants LOL! As you know council debates the budget line by line and tries to come to a tax increase rate that they feel is acceptable. The budget is a complex document that I will not try to summarize in a few sentences. Ultimately, there are many factors that influence the final rate of the increase. This is from the Financial Matters of the report and I feel will be the part that most people will be interested to read….

FINANCIAL MATTERS: 

“On a home with an assessment of $250,000, the municipal portion of taxes including capital reserve and capital replacement levies for 2021 will be $2,512 compared to $2,454 in 2020, which represents a total municipal portion tax increase of $58 or a 2.36% increase from the prior year. 

The actual 2021 tax rates outlined above do not affect the levy approved at the time of 2021 Budget adoption. The levy is the amount of money required to fund the Town’s 2021 operating and capital demands in the approved budget, which will be collected through taxation.”

2021 Public Event Approvals

This report I did find to be interesting. The old council created a bylaw that council had to approve any public events. Previous to that, events were prepared and went through various approvals (by-law etc) through town administration. Then, the old council changed that to council approval being required. It was contentious at the time and ALL of the events would have to come and plead before council for approval. Eventually, they generally became rubber stamped anyway. 

Now, it seems that administration is asking council to delegate the authority to administration in order to approve any events and road closures etc for the 2021 calendar year. Due to COVID there are ever-changing requirements and last minute changes at the provincial level. For those who are interested, here’s the report : 

https://pub-amherstburg.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=2946

Suitability for Development on Private Septic System on one Severed Lot on Front Road N

This item is recommended to be approved. 

Zoning By-law Amendment for 1459 Front Road North

This item has to do with the item above. 

Zoning By-law Amendment for E/S Concession 7

This appears to be another private property that is being severed. 

Inclusive Community Program (ICP) Initiative and Advisory Steering Committee 

This appears to be a new committee that will be formed. Here are the recommendations: 

It is recommended that:

 1. The Inclusive Community Program Advisory Steering Committee BE STRUCK to serve from April 26, 2021 to March 31, 2022 as outlined in the report of April 2, 2021 entitled, Inclusive Community Program (ICP) Advisory Steering Committee; 

2. The ICP Advisory Steering Committee Terms of Reference BE ADOPTED as presented;

3. Members BE APPOINTED to the ICP Advisory Steering Committee as per the Terms of Reference: a. William Whittall (current AAAC Chair); b. Kathy DiBartolomeo (current SAC Chair); c. Councillor Marc Renaud; d. Christine Easterbrook, (current Member of AAAC) e. Heather Vandenham, (current Member of the SAC) f. The Director, President or Vice President of the Amherstburg Freedom Museum; and, g. The Executive Director of the Essex County Nurse Practitioner Led Clinic; 

4. An over-expenditure in the CAO’s Office budget centre, professional fees expense account, not to exceed $60,000 including net HST BE APPROVED to be funded by the Inclusive Community Grant Program; and,

5. The CAO BE AUTHORIZED to execute the one-time agreement with the Province of Ontario – Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility in accordance with Section 6.2.18 of the Delegation of Powers and Duties Policy.

This appears to be very good news. Amherstburg received the funding to create this new committee. From the report : “The funding guidelines indicate that priority has been given to projects that target small urban/rural communities; and/or support diverse populations of older adults or persons with disabilities (including but not limited to, indigenous, immigrant, Francophone, racialized, and 2SLGBTQI+ populations); and/or respond to the emerging needs of older adults, including those with disabilities, in a changing environment resulting from the global COVID-19 pandemic.”

INFORMATION REPORTS

Cheque Listing for the Month of March 2021

I went through the cheque listing for March 2021 but nothing jumped out at me. 

CONSENT CORRESPONDENCE

There’s a fairly long list of consent correspondence for council to receive again this week. 

And that’s about it folks. As you can see, nothing earth shattering on there for Monday night……will council be productive and efficient Monday night? Better yet, can council be productive and efficient Monday night? We shall see……If they are, I’ll be back Monday night with the summary! And if they aren’t, well Tuesday or Wednesday it is then folks! See you then! 

Monday April 12th Regular Town council meeting

Well tonight’s meeting lasted about two hours and twenty minutes…..I’m going to be frank….it was not very exciting or interesting lol. There were a few things I found interesting but nothing major. I’ll try to summarize this one as briefly as possible. If you’re feeling like watching paint dry, then tune in to the video. It’s usually posted the very next day. 

The meeting began with something new. 

Land Acknowledgement

Mayor DiCarlo explained that this is the first time that the land acknowledgement would be part of a meeting but said that it would be part of all meetings going forward. He read the following statement that I found in the agenda.

“We will begin by acknowledging that the land on which we gather is the traditional territory of the Three Fires Confederacy of First Nations (comprising the Ojibway, the Odawa, and the Potawatomie Peoples), and of the Huron-Wendat and Wyandot Peoples. We recognize the land as an expression of gratitude to those whose traditional territory we reside on, and a way of honouring the Indigenous people who have been living and thriving on the land since time immemorial. We value the significant historical and contemporary contributions of local and regional First Nations and all of the Original Peoples of Turtle Island.”

Minutes of previous meeting

Councillor Prue felt that something in the minutes was not accurate but he wanted to deal with it in-camera later in the evening. So the minutes were not adopted at that point of the meeting. 

PRESENTATIONS

Imagine & Believe in Amherstburg Survey – Linden Crain and Jen Desjardins-Grondin, Amherstburg Community Foundation (ACF) 

Ms Desjardins-Grondin spoke first to present the results of a survey that was done by the Amherstburg Community Foundation. She explained their mission, vision and values as well as the various donations they have made to local organizations. She also explained the thought leader series where various experts and leaders were brought to Amherstburg to speak about different ideas, visions, possibilities and aspirations. 

Mr Crain explained that the ACF was able to garner 243 responses from residents and visitors. There were eight key topic areas, including recreation, history, youth, seniors, active living as well as a few others that I didn’t catch. (I take my notes by hand….I do my best but can only write so fast LOL.) Mr Crain also presented the key findings of what people enjoy most about Amherstburg. They were listed as the riverfront, great people, history and small businesses. 

Mr Crain presented some of the many ideas that the respondents proposed, such as improvements for water access, entertainment, bus tours, walking tours, composting programs, electronics pick up, a multicultural festival, affordable housing, after school programs, a YMCA, bike lanes, a pool, volleyball and basketball courts etc. There were a lot of great ideas that were shared. I couldn’t catch them all.  

Deputy Mayor Meloche thanked the ACF for the presentation and for the data that they were able to provide. He went through the comments that were shared with council and noted that 72 comments were regarding litter, garbage and composting. He thanked them for the data and felt that it gave council some ideas to focus on. 

Councillor McArthur also thanked the ACF for the presentation. He was happy to see that some of the highlights and ideas mentioned are items that were addressed and included in the 2021 budget, such as a dog park, outdoor entertainment, water access for a kayak launch etc. He also felt that there was a lot of good information in the presentation. 

Mayor DiCarlo thanked the ACF for their work and for their investments in Amherstburg. 

Policy Amendment – Procurement Policy

It looks like a small amendment is being requested to the procurement policy as it relates to landowners getting necessary services. The recommendation is to add the following clause : “24.3.2.1 h) Where the landowner will be assessed 100% of all costs for works under the Drainage Act and the landowner wishes to choose a contractor from the prequalified list of contractors, or another contractor deemed qualified by the Town, who comply with section 23 of this policy.” 

There was a lot of back and forth about this…..but ultimately the recommendation passed, so I’m going to save myself some key strokes here…..why bother typing it all up when ultimately the recommendation was passed? LOL Moving on. 

2021 Road Repairs Program – Award of Tender

The road repairs program went out for tender and the results are in. There was no discussion and the recommendation was passed. 

It is recommended that:

1. The 2021 Road Repairs Program Tender BE AWARDED to Avanti Paving Inc. in an amount of $136,000 plus applicable taxes; and,

2. The Mayor and Clerk BE AUTHORIZED to execute an agreement with Avanti Paving Inc. for the completion of the 2021 Road Repairs Program.

2021 Road Maintenance (Tar and Chip) Program – Award of Tender

Well, it looks like the request for tenders was issued for the road maintenance, tar and chip program by the town. And it seems that only one company submitted a proposal…..so not a big choice to be made here I guess LOL. There was one very quick question and then council passed the recommendation.

It is recommended that: 

1. An over-expenditure not to exceed $10,000 for the 2021 Road Maintenance (Tar and Chip) Program capital project, to be funded from current taxation, BE APPROVED; 

2. The 2021 Road Maintenance (Tar and Chip) Program Tender BE AWARDED to Shepley Road Maintenance Limited in an amount of $206,210 plus applicable taxes; and,

3. The Mayor and Clerk BE AUTHORIZED to execute an agreement with Shepley Road Maintenance Limited for completion of the 2021 Tar and Chip Program.

Grader and Equipment – Award of Tender

Once again, another request for tender went out for the purchase of a motor grader and some equipment. It seems this machine is used for maintenance and upkeep of gravel roads. I’m not much of an equipment person……and it seems the trend right now is all the prices are coming in higher than anticipated…..

Councillor Prue had a question about the type of equipment chosen. There was some back and forth about the cost of the machine and which reserve funds were being used, but ultimately, the recommendation was passed. 

It is recommended that:

1. An over-expenditure for purchase of a gravel compaction unit not to exceed $12,700 BE APPROVED for a total cost not to exceed $37,613 including net HST and that the over-expenditure BE FUNDED from taxation, with any surplus/deficit resulting from taxation funded operations to be addressed through recommendations in the year end (Q4) variance report;

2. The Motor Grader and Equipment Tender BE AWARDED to Brandt Tractor Limited in an amount of $456,654 plus applicable taxes; and, 

3. The Mayor and Clerk BE AUTHORIZED to execute an agreement with Brandt Tractor Limited for the purchase of a 2021 Motor Grader and Equipment.

Ouellette Drain West Improvements – Tender Results

And another tender coming in over budget……from the report :

“It should also be noted that due to Tribunal appeals beyond the control of the Municipality, the final passing of the By-law and subsequent tendering of this project was delayed by over a year. Pandemic related challenges pushed the Tribunal hearing from its original scheduled date in early May of 2020 to the end of November 2020. In consideration that the engineering report and estimate were completed in June of 2019, there was no way of forecasting the impacts that the pandemic would have on construction costs or the timing of any appeals hearings. Had there been no Tribunal appeals, tendering would have occurred in early 2020 and prior to the onset of these COVID-19 pandemic related cost increases.”

Councillor Courtney felt that we pay engineers to budget for projects and the costs are now skyrocketing. He wondered if there was a way for the engineers to safeguard against increased costs or to use some type of template for the budget. Mr McVitty from administration explained that this is very difficult at the moment. It seems the project was in place for June 2019 but was supposed to go to the Tribunal in May 2020. That was then delayed to November 2020 due to the pandemic. He said that there were a lot of delays and the prices increased and that with the ongoing pandemic there are supply issues which are affecting costs. He said that they would be discussing this challenge. 

All this to say that council passed the recommendation. What else could they do? Other than complaining about it, I guess. 

It is recommended that:

1. An over-expenditure not to exceed $81,756 BE APPROVED for the Repair and Improvement to the Ouellette Drain West project, for a total cost not to exceed $325,756 including net HST to be funded by recoveries from benefitting property owners;

2. The Town’s estimate of the over-expenditure not to exceed $13,529 including net HST be funded from current taxation BE APPROVED, with any surplus/deficit resulting from taxation funded operations to be addressed through recommendations in the year end (Q4) variance report;

3. The Ouellette Drain West Tender BE AWARDED to Nevan Construction Inc. for an amount not to exceed $245,200 plus H.S.T.; and, 

4. The Mayor and Clerk BE AUTHORIZED to execute an agreement with Nevan Construction Inc. for completion of the Ouellette Drain West improvements. 

Development Agreement, Suitability for Development of Five Proposed Lots on Private Septic Systems and Removal of Holding Zone on N/S County Road 20 

It appears that approval for 5 lots was given by the Committee of Adjustment with conditions. It seems that the property owner has met the requirements and is requesting removal of the Holding Zone so that development can proceed. 

This carried with no discussion. 

Hunt Club Creek Subdivision – Extension of Draft Plan Approval

From the background section of the report : 

“The purpose of this report is to provide Council with information on the applicant’s request for a three (3) year extension to the Draft Plan of Subdivision Approval (see attached Extension Request letter dated January 8, 2021) which is set to lapse on June 2, 2021. The Draft Plan Approval was granted by the County to permit a development consisting of 592 lots for single detached dwellings and 104 lots for 208 semi-detached dwellings located south of Lowes Sideroad and east of Front Road South. The subject lands are legally described as Part of Lots 6 and 7, Concession 1 and Part of Lot 20, Concession 2 (Malden). Council has previously supported a three year extension of the Draft Plan Approval for Hunt Club Creek Subdivision in 2018, 2015 and 2012. The appropriate zoning has been approved by Council at the time of draft plan approval in 2009.”

Councillor Prue expressed that he was going to vote for this item but felt that at a certain point that council wasn’t doing a service to the residents to keep extending the dates. There was a lot of back and forth and even a story about when he was Mayor in East York…..Councillor Prue made an amendment to the motion that if the developer should seek any future extensions that they would provide a rationale to council about the request.…..The CAO felt that council had provided a motion back in August 2020 and that all 5 parties signed the agreement regarding this development. He noted that the market is demanding single family homes at the moment and that developers realized that Amherstburg has the capacity for growth. He gave kudos to council for that agreement and felt that this is likely the last extension. 

Ultimately the motion passed and the extension was granted. 

Suitability for Development on Private Septic System on one Severed Lot on Front Road N 

It looks like a property owner is looking for approval to have a septic system on a piece of property that they severed. It seems they will need council approval for this in order to be able to build on the land. 

Councillor Prue made a motion to defer this item to the next meeting when council would see the final plan for the property. There was a bit of discussion, but ultimately council voted to defer the item until the next meeting or the one after that. 

Fire Safety Grant – Letter of Intent and Fire Safety Grant Transfer Payment Agreement

It appears that in early March the provincial government announced a one time grant to municipal fire services to help with the challenges of training and virtual inspections due to the pandemic. It seems that the ability to train fire service members, with new restrictions in place has been difficult and not all training priorities have been met this past year. 

It seems that the town is getting $10,000 of grant money, however, the budgeted amount will not cover all the necessary training. So, it seems that the theme of the evening is that another item is also going to be over budget, although only by $970….

The Fire Chief explained that this was a windfall of money that allowed the department to offset the training program. There was quite a bit of discussion about the way the document read about an “over expenditure”. The CAO explained that anytime unforeseen grant money is received in a year, it will be deemed an over expenditure since it wasn’t in the budget. He explained that this is not a negative thing but a positive thing. So, the recommendation passed.

It is recommended that:

1. That an over-expenditure not to exceed $10,970 in the Fire budget centre, training and professional development expense BE APPROVED to be funded by $10,000 from the Fire Safety Grant Funding and $970 from taxation; and, 

2. By-law 2021-029 being a by-law authorizing the execution of the Agreement between the Town of Amherstburg and Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Ontario as represented by the Office of the Fire Marshall be taken as having been read three times, and finally passed and the Mayor and Clerk BE AUTHORIZED to sign same. 

Consent Correspondence

There was a very long list of consent correspondence for council to receive. They decided to send letters of support regarding a couple of the items. 

New Business

There were several items brought up Monday night under new business. 

Skate Park

Councillor McArthur noted that the skate park in Tecumseh had reopened with restrictions due to COVID. He said he had been getting calls about when the skate park would reopen in Amherstburg and wondered if there were a timeline. 

CAO Miceli explained that with public consultation, the recommendation had been the Libro Centre, however with the current vaccination clinic there, it would not be a good location at the moment. He mentioned that with the possibilities for Centennial Park and Jack Purdy Park for the highest and best uses of those two parks, he expected it could be possible to put the skate park in one of those two parks. He explained that the renderings for both parks would likely be ready at the end of the month and would be going to public consultation for feedback. He said that the town has the funding for the skate park to relocate it but would need direction from council of where it could go. 

Councillor McArthur mentioned that The Fort Fun Centre was closing due to COVID and with that closure would be the loss of beach volleyball courts. He felt that those should somehow be replaced by the town. 

The CAO said that once the new Director begins their job that the beach volleyball courts could be added to their plate as part of the Parks Master Plan as well as the Libro Master Plan that council still has not yet endorsed. 

Mass Vaccination Clinic

Councillor Simone offered praise for the mass vaccination clinic. She said she had received a lot of feedback that people are very happy and appreciative of how efficient and well run the mass vaccination site has been. (Just an aside…..but maybe council should take some lessons from this……efficient……hmmmm……efficient meetings…..just a thought…..) Fire Chief Montone said that the town has had to overcome some significant challenges during the pandemic and commended the leadership of our CAO, John Miceli, for leading town administration through the pandemic. He said that often staff have been trying to pivot daily and often on a weekly basis with many challenges and changes. He explained that the Clinic would be operating at 5 days per week hopefully next week since we are scheduled to get more supply of the vaccine. He is hopeful that eventually the clinic could run 7 days per week for 12 hours per day. He thanked council, the CAO and Rick Daly, the site manager. 

Public Consultation re: Parks

Councillor Courtney inquired with how public consultation would proceed regarding the possibilities for Centennial Park and Jack Purdy Park. He felt concerned with how the residents would see the options and give feedback. He wondered if the meetings would be held over Zoom and acknowledged that for the next 28 days, options are very limited (due to the stay at home order). 

The CAO said that the Clerk would bring a report forward. He felt that likely, the options would be posted for the people’s consideration. He felt that it was likely that feedback would be provided via Zoom meetings as well as the online platform Talk the Burg. He said that everything possible would be done to get input. He felt after that, it would be up to council to decide or to defer. He acknowledged that COVID isn’t going away and that various means would have to be used for public consultation. He did acknowledge that council had committed to have the skate park installed for this spring. He mentioned that it would be up to council to decide what to do and to consider the costs of setting it up at a temporary location and then later move it to its permanent home. 

Councillor Courtney asked if administration could look at a temporary but low cost option to set up the skate park somewhere this spring. The CAO said that the Libro possibility would not work this year due to the Mass Vaccination Clinic. He felt that the parking lot of Jack Purdy park could be a temporary solution to at least give the kids access to the skate park this year. Councillor Courtney mentioned again, trying to find a low expense option. 

A few other items

Councillor Courtney asked if it would be possible during Open Air to set up a few rogue picnic tables in the Kings Navy Yard Park for places to sit and eat. 

Councillor McArthur said he definitely wanted a temporary spot found for the skate park to open this spring. 

Councillor Prue talked about the speeding on Meloche Road. 

Councillor Prue talked about the parking on Boblo Island…..that cars are being left for days and days without being moved but there is no bylaw about this issue. 

Councillor Renaud discussed the Fox brothers named on the Cenotaph. Fox Road was renamed to the Third Concession. It seems that the person in administration that has been working on this item was not in attendance at Monday’s meeting but that likely, the name would be re-added to the road naming policy. 

Announcement

CAO Miceli said that they had finished the recruitment program for two positions that were available at town hall. 

Ms Heidi Baillargon (not sure if I got the last name right…..sorry if I didn’t) will be joining the town in the role of Director of Community and Protective Services. 

As well, Ms Nicole Rubli will be our new Director of Planning and Development Services. 

Congratulations to the successful candidates! 

And at 8:20 PM council went in-camera to discuss :

SPECIAL IN-CAMERA COUNCIL MEETING

That Council move into an In-Camera Meeting of Council directly following Regular session pursuant to Section 239 of the Municipal Act, 2001, as amended for the following reason: Item A – Section 239(2)(c) – A proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board.

And believe it or not, I finished this blog on Monday night!!!!! Yay for me! I’m going to reread it tomorrow though because well, it’s late and I’m sure there are many typos to fix…..so by the time you’re reading this it will be Tuesday. 🙂  Have a great week Amherstburg. Stay safe! I’ll see you in two weeks…..and we’ll STILL be in lock down……

In preparation for Monday April 12th Regular town council meeting

Well Monday night’s meeting is only 325 pages and there doesn’t seem to be anything on there that could be contentious, so there is hope that the meeting could wrap up in a reasonable amount of time…..there’s hope…..but we will see.

Here are the highlights as I see ‘em:

PRESENTATIONS

Imagine & Believe in Amherstburg Survey – Linden Crain and Jen Desjardins-Grondin, Amherstburg Community Foundation (ACF) 

It appears that Mr Crain and Ms Desjardins-Grondin will be presenting the results of a survey done by the Amherstburg Community Foundation. The ACF has been giving grant money to various charitable organizations in Amherstburg for the past two years. This year, they will once again be receiving grant applications from interested parties. It seems that the ACF created the survey to better understand the needs and desires of those living in or visiting the Amherstburg community. Here are some of the questions that were asked : What do you enjoy most about the Town of Amherstburg?  How satisfied are you with the Town’s recreational spaces? How can these spaces be improved? Are we amplifying the rich history of Amherstburg enough? Do you believe the citizens of Amherstburg are doing their part to protect the environment? Does Amherstburg do enough to create a diverse and inclusive community? There were also questions about what could be done to improve these areas. As well, there were questions about services offered to the vulnerable, the seniors as well as for our youth. I’m looking forward to hearing this presentation Monday night. 

Policy Amendment – Procurement Policy

It looks like a small amendment is being requested to the procurement policy as it relates to landowners getting necessary services. The recommendation is to add the following clause : “24.3.2.1 h) Where the landowner will be assessed 100% of all costs for works under the Drainage Act and the landowner wishes to choose a contractor from the prequalified list of contractors, or another contractor deemed qualified by the Town, who comply with section 23 of this policy.” 

2021 Road Repairs Program – Award of Tender

The road repairs program went out for tender and the results are in. Here’s the recommendation :

It is recommended that:

1. The 2021 Road Repairs Program Tender BE AWARDED to Avanti Paving Inc. in an amount of $136,000 plus applicable taxes; and,

2. The Mayor and Clerk BE AUTHORIZED to execute an agreement with Avanti Paving Inc. for the completion of the 2021 Road Repairs Program.

2021 Road Maintenance (Tar and Chip) Program – Award of Tender

Well, it looks like the request for tenders was issued for the road maintenance, tar and chip program by the town. And it seems that only one company submitted a proposal…..so not a big choice to be made here I guess LOL. Here’s the recommendation:

It is recommended that: 

1. An over-expenditure not to exceed $10,000 for the 2021 Road Maintenance (Tar and Chip) Program capital project, to be funded from current taxation, BE APPROVED; 

2. The 2021 Road Maintenance (Tar and Chip) Program Tender BE AWARDED to Shepley Road Maintenance Limited in an amount of $206,210 plus applicable taxes; and,

3. The Mayor and Clerk BE AUTHORIZED to execute an agreement with Shepley Road Maintenance Limited for completion of the 2021 Tar and Chip Program.

Grader and Equipment – Award of Tender

Once again, another request for tender went out for the purchase of a motor grader and some equipment. It seems this machine is used for maintenance and upkeep of gravel roads. I’m not much of an equipment person……so here’s the recommendation (seems the trend right now is all the prices are coming in higher than anticipated…..)

It is recommended that:

1. An over-expenditure for purchase of a gravel compaction unit not to exceed $12,700 BE APPROVED for a total cost not to exceed $37,613 including net HST and that the over-expenditure BE FUNDED from taxation, with any surplus/deficit resulting from taxation funded operations to be addressed through recommendations in the year end (Q4) variance report;

2. The Motor Grader and Equipment Tender BE AWARDED to Brandt Tractor Limited in an amount of $456,654 plus applicable taxes; and, 

3. The Mayor and Clerk BE AUTHORIZED to execute an agreement with Brandt Tractor Limited for the purchase of a 2021 Motor Grader and Equipment.

Ouellette Drain West Improvements – Tender Results

And another tender coming in over budget……from the report :

“It should also be noted that due to Tribunal appeals beyond the control of the Municipality, the final passing of the By-law and subsequent tendering of this project was delayed by over a year. Pandemic related challenges pushed the Tribunal hearing from its original scheduled date in early May of 2020 to the end of November 2020. In consideration that the engineering report and estimate were completed in June of 2019, there was no way of forecasting the impacts that the pandemic would have on construction costs or the timing of any appeals hearings. Had there been no Tribunal appeals, tendering would have occurred in early 2020 and prior to the onset of these COVID-19 pandemic related cost increases.”

I wonder if council ever regrets their tiny, slim tax increases? It seems that everything is just costing more and more……yet they try to strip the budget down…..and for what? These projects still need to happen and there’s nothing anybody can do about the prices……but I digress. Here’s the recommendation :

It is recommended that:

1. An over-expenditure not to exceed $81,756 BE APPROVED for the Repair and Improvement to the Ouellette Drain West project, for a total cost not to exceed $325,756 including net HST to be funded by recoveries from benefitting property owners;

2. The Town’s estimate of the over-expenditure not to exceed $13,529 including net HST be funded from current taxation BE APPROVED, with any surplus/deficit resulting from taxation funded operations to be addressed through recommendations in the year end (Q4) variance report;

3. The Ouellette Drain West Tender BE AWARDED to Nevan Construction Inc. for an amount not to exceed $245,200 plus H.S.T.; and, 

4. The Mayor and Clerk BE AUTHORIZED to execute an agreement with Nevan Construction Inc. for completion of the Ouellette Drain West improvements. 

Development Agreement, Suitability for Development of Five Proposed Lots on Private Septic Systems and Removal of Holding Zone on N/S County Road 20 

It appears that approval for 5 lots was given by the Committee of Adjustment with conditions. It seems that the property owner has met the requirements and is requesting removal of the Holding Zone so that development can proceed. 

Hunt Club Creek Subdivision – Extension of Draft Plan Approval

From the background section of the report : 

“The purpose of this report is to provide Council with information on the applicant’s request for a three (3) year extension to the Draft Plan of Subdivision Approval (see attached Extension Request letter dated January 8, 2021) which is set to lapse on June 2, 2021. The Draft Plan Approval was granted by the County to permit a development consisting of 592 lots for single detached dwellings and 104 lots for 208 semi-detached dwellings located south of Lowes Sideroad and east of Front Road South. The subject lands are legally described as Part of Lots 6 and 7, Concession 1 and Part of Lot 20, Concession 2 (Malden). Council has previously supported a three year extension of the Draft Plan Approval for Hunt Club Creek Subdivision in 2018, 2015 and 2012. The appropriate zoning has been approved by Council at the time of draft plan approval in 2009.”

I would guess that this will get approved? 

Suitability for Development on Private Septic System on one Severed Lot on Front Road N 

It looks like a property owner is looking for approval to have a septic system on a piece of property that they severed. It seems they will need council approval for this in order to be able to build on the land. 

Fire Safety Grant – Letter of Intent and Fire Safety Grant Transfer Payment Agreement

It appears that in early March the provincial government announced a one time grant to municipal fire services to help with the challenges of training and virtual inspections due to the pandemic. It seems that the ability to train fire service members, with new restrictions in place has been difficult and not all training priorities have been met this past year. 

It seems that the town is getting $10,000 of grant money, however, the budgeted amount will not cover all the necessary training. So, it seems that the theme of the evening is that another item is also going to be over budget….

It is recommended that:

1. That an over-expenditure not to exceed $10,970 in the Fire budget centre, training and professional development expense BE APPROVED to be funded by $10,000 from the Fire Safety Grant Funding and $970 from taxation; and, 

2. By-law 2021-029 being a by-law authorizing the execution of the Agreement between the Town of Amherstburg and Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Ontario as represented by the Office of the Fire Marshall be taken as having been read three times, and finally passed and the Mayor and Clerk BE AUTHORIZED to sign same. 

INFORMATION REPORTS

There are a couple of information reports for council to receive. I didn’t read them. This agenda is like watching paint dry LOL

CONSENT CORRESPONDENCE

There is a very lengthy list of consent correspondence for council too. I didn’t read those either. LOL ! Nothing jumped out at me, so I’m finishing this up and have other things to do. LOL (Laundry is calling my name right now…..and even that is more exciting than this agenda at the moment….. 🙂   

And finally, council will meet in-camera at the end of the meeting. 

SPECIAL IN-CAMERA COUNCIL MEETING

That Council move into an In-Camera Meeting of Council directly following Regular session pursuant to Section 239 of the Municipal Act, 2001, as amended for the following reason: Item A – Section 239(2)(c) – A proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board.

And that’s it, that’s all folks! Not much of particular excitement on Monday night’s agenda. If this meeting lasts past 7:30, then Houston, we’ve got a problem……See you next week! Hopefully, Monday night! If not, Tuesday then…..either way, see you next week! Enjoy this beautiful weather Amherstburg!