Monday January 29th Regular town council meeting

After tonight’s painful meeting, the agonizing budget meetings and some time contemplating,  I am seriously considering quitting blogging. Watching the disrespect shown by some members of council was disheartening to say the least. I could hear some heckling from the gallery too. And, when the delegations last for TWO HOURS before council finally gets down to business, with the, you know, 719 page agenda…. Well……seems like a real lack of control and efficiency to get things done and get the business of the town moving forward. Oh and one member of council seemed to spend a lot of time typing on their computer. Again. Old habits die hard I guess. It’s a shame really. The seven members of council should be 100% focused on whoever is speaking, whether it’s a delegate, a member of town staff or another member of council don’t you think? Perhaps the computer screen is more interesting?

And for those of you that got really excited reading the above, I changed my mind. Sorry to disappoint you. I’ll keep blogging and moving forward, perhaps in spite of what I saw last night. I’ve heard spite can be a good motivator? LOL

I watched the meeting from home and I’m sure glad I did. It sounded like people in the gallery had a hard time controlling themselves. More than once I heard call outs from the gallery and the Mayor had to use the gavel and call for order. (Kind of ironic for once….instead of passing it like a hot potato, using it for its actual purpose, calling for order….)

First, council met in-camera at 4:00 to discuss : 

SPECIAL IN-CAMERA MEETING 

That Council move into an In-Camera Meeting of Council pursuant to Section 239 of the Municipal Act, 2001, as amended for the following reasons: 

Item A – Information Regarding Undertaking by Agreement of Local Board 

Section 239(2)(i) – a trade secret or scientific, technical, commercial, financial or labour relations information, supplied in confidence to the municipality or local board, which, if disclosed, could reasonably be expected to prejudice significantly the competitive position or interfere significantly with the contractual or other negotiations of a person, group of persons, or organization; and, 

• Section 239(2)(j) – a trade secret or scientific, technical, commercial or financial information that belongs to the municipality or local board and has monetary value or potential monetary value. 

Item B – Striking Committee Information 

Section 239(2)(b) – personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees. 

Item C – Legal Advice regarding Development Agreements and Contractual Obligations Section 239(2)(f) – advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose. 

Then, they met at 5:00 for a planning meeting. 

The regular meeting started at 6:00. 

***Councillor Courtney was absent tonight*** The Mayor mentioned that Councillor Courtney would try to zoom into the meeting later, but he never did. 

Here is the link to the revised agenda, PDF format https://calendar.amherstburg.ca/council/Detail/2024-01-29-1800-Regular-Council-Meeting/9349abd7-5c4d-45bf-a753-b103010f5d32

And here is the link to the HTML format (and the video is already there for those of you that may want to watch the chaos, I mean the show….. https://pub-amherstburg.escribemeetings.com/Meeting.aspx?Id=df6b8eed-6be8-4bd3-8fb0-3fcc2a5e0d11&Agenda=Merged&lang=English

There were some items from the in-camera meeting that had report outs. 

This item was called forward : 

Amendments to Unanimous Shareholder Agreement – Essex Power, Joe Barile, Vice President of Regulatory and Corporate Affairs 

In the agenda, this was the recommendation: 

That: Direction BE PROVIDED to the Mayor to support the amendments to Essex Powers Unanimous Shareholders Agreement on behalf of the Corporation of the Town of Amherstburg, and, to vote, execute or take any required action in order to provide this endorsement. 

Mr Barile was present and made a short presentation to council. From what I could gather it seems that there was a memorandum to update the shareholders agreement. He spoke about various protection mechanisms that were in the agreement to protect the shareholders. (The Town of Amherstburg, as well as the Town of Tecumseh, LaSalle and Leamington.) 

Councillor Pouget mentioned that Mr Barile had answered her questions prior to the meeting. (So, if she can ask Mr Barile questions before the meeting, why can’t she ask town administration questions BEFORE the meetings? Just an observation….from someone who has been watching way too many council meetings for almost 10 years LOL) 

Anyway, finally the motion was made and it passed. 

Striking Committee Information 

This item also had a report out and there was a motion made to appoint Debra Rollier (Not sure if I got the name or the spelling right on that) to the Committee of Adjustment. The motion carried. 

Previous Minutes

One member of council complained about how the minutes were prepared from the budget session. Nobody else said anything so I guess the other members of council were okay with reading the minutes and understanding them. There was a mistake pointed out (publicly of course, because THAT couldn’t be addressed privately ahead of time, with the same respect that was shown to Mr Barile, and we wonder why there is staff dissatisfaction in the surveys?….)

The minutes were adopted with the corrections noted. 

DELEGATIONS 

Delegation – Item 11.1- Community and Senior Centre (179 Victoria Street) Update – Golden Age Club – Dorothy Thrasher 

Ms Thrasher delegated to council first. It was a very lengthy delegation and a motion was made to allow an extra five minutes. I will not summarize it all. Ms Thrasher offered a history of how the Golden Age Club came to be as well as how the building at 179 Victoria Street came to be built. She said that the Golden Age Club is a group of strictly volunteers. She spoke about how the group was moved to the arena and were often displaced from their activities. She felt that the seniors have been paying for years and thought that they are “entitled”. She was asking for the group to have use of the building and not have to pay any rent. 

Ms Thrasher referenced an AM800 news article about the building. She seemed to think that the Deputy Mayor had authored the article. Deputy Mayor Gibb explained that he was interviewed for the article, but that the reporter had gotten information from the agenda to be able to write their article. 

Councillor Crain noted that council had invested a lot of money into the building and that administration had recommended that they negotiate the terms of use, re-name the building and create some programming for the building. Ms Thrasher said that they wanted a say in the contract. 

Councillor Pouget mentioned adding another section to the proposed motion about getting a report that the Golden Age Club would not pay any rent for use of the building. 

Councillor McArthur noted that the previous council had voted to waive fees in the past and that he would vote to waive the fees in perpetuity since the club uses the building at off hours. Mayor Prue explained that the fees could only be waived for this term of council and not in perpetuity since each council can change things as they see fit. Ms Thrasher said that they need the building from 9 until 5. 

Deputy Mayor Gibb felt that the town should provide a place for our seniors and that council had done that with the repairs done to the building. He was hopeful that an agreement could be reached that would provide certainty for the hours of use. 

Councillor Pouget then made a motion for the recommendation : 

1. Council RECEIVE this report for information and; 

2. Council DIRECT Administration to negotiate the terms of use for the building located at 179 Victoria with the Fort Malden Golden Age Club, to be brought back to Council for approval of the user agreement subject to the current needs of the group and all applicable Town Policies; 

3. Council APPROVE the re-naming of the building located at 179 Victoria to be the H. Murray Smith Community & Seniors Centre; 

4. Council DIRECT Administration to create programming and opportunities for 179 Victoria to be rented for use as directed by Council in accordance with the most current User Fee By-Law and Schedule of Fees as approved by Council; and, 

5. Council DELEGATE the authority to the CAO to sign and execute any such agreements, contracts, purchase orders and or procurement contracts as may be required to fully execute and provide increased programming for Town Facilities including 179 Victoria, in accordance with the Town’s procurement policy, satisfactory in technical content to the Director of Parks Facilities and Recreation and in Financial content to the Town’s Chief Financial Office.

Councillor Pouget also made a motion to add item #6 that administration make an agreement to reflect a zero balance in the budget for use of the building for this term of council. 

Councillor McArthur felt that he was good with naming the building after H Murray Smith, however he noted that council had made a motion that if a new track is not built, then the building was supposed to be named after S. Ralph McCurdy, since his name is currently on the track. 

There was a lot of back and forth and eventually item #3 of the motion was changed to refer the names to the Heritage Committee for feedback. 

It finally went to a vote and it carried unanimously. It was 6:53 PM…..almost one hour into the meeting and council had only heard from ONE delegate and dealt with one item….

Councillor Allaire mentioned the Marsh Collection books when she spoke. I have a copy of those books at home, so I am going to offer to you, my readers, some facts from the book : Amherstburg 1796-1996 The New Town on the Garrison Grounds, Amherstburg Bicentennial Book Committee  It was published by the Marsh Collection in 1997

“Amherstburg Culture and Recreation Centre

After a ‘buy a brick’ campaign raised funds for the project, construction began on the AMHERSTBURG CULTURE and RECREATION CENTRE in October, 1977. Officially opened on June 4, 1978, the facility is used for exercise classes, weddings, showers, meetings, election polling stations and other activities. The Golden Age Club was the first principal tenant of the centre and continues to use it today.”  (page 275)

From these facts from the Marsh Collection Book, it appears that the building belongs to the Town of Amherstburg (i.e. all taxpayers) and not to any particular group. 

As well, I looked into the history of Centennial Park since there have been statements made that the land was donated. 

From the Marsh Collection book as noted above : 

“H. Murray Smith Centennial Park 

H. MURRAY SMITH CENTENNIAL PARK is Amherstburg’s largest recreational park, combining many facilities into one large complex. In 1933 the Town of Amherstburg acquired the former Bell farm, bordered by Simcoe, Victoria and Alma Streets and the Second Concession (now Fryer Street).” page 272 It goes on to explain how the land was developed. “In 1960 the Amherstburg Recreation Commission again recommended that the town set aside part of the farm for future development as a recreational facility. Five years passed and still no park developed. However, with Canada’s Centennial looming in the near future, the proposal to develop thirty acres of the Bell farm into a recreational park as a Centennial project in 1967 was tabled.” (page 272)

“In 1977 when Amherstburg mayor H. Murray Smith was chosen by the Amherstburg, Anderson & Malden Chamber of Commerce as “Citizen of the year”, town council honoured him by passing Bylaw No. 1460 which officially changed the name of Centennial Park to “H. MURRAY SMITH CENTENNIAL PARK”. (page 274) 

If any of my readers love history and facts, the book I referenced above is available at the Marsh Collection. It is very interesting and will give you the historical facts of Amherstburg. 

Delegation Item 10.2 – Greater Amherstburg Tennis League – Bill Seagris 

Mr Seagris addressed council next. He spoke about how at one time there were 12 tennis courts in Amherstburg and now they are down to two courts. He acknowledged that pickleball is a growing sport and that the tennis players need facilities as well. His delegation had to be extended past the 5 minute time limit. He asked council to reconsider their decision from two weeks ago about putting in two hard court surfaces for pickleball and go back to the original plan of one hard court surface for pickleball and the other hard court surface for tennis. 

Councillor Pouget spoke and spoke and spoke…..she asked one of the 4 members of council that voted for the two hard court surfaces to be all pickleball to reconsider their vote. 

Mayor Prue asked if any of the four members of council that vote for the all pickleball courts wanted to reopen the issue. And there was silence. 

Councillor McArthur spoke and began to explain that he felt that the town needs more hard surface courts. He noted that the town had just invested in resurfacing the courts in Anderdon and that two other tennis courts are available at Co-An Park. Mr Seagris seemed to interrupt and felt disappointed that pickleball players were only thinking of themselves. He continued at length about the lines on the courts and sharing the courts. Councillor McArthur eventually continued on that he had gone to bat the prior term for Mr Seagris and that it did not go well. He said that he voted in favour of all pickleball courts since they need 8 dedicated courts for tournaments and that brings sports tourism to Amherstburg. (One hard surface court holds 4 pickleball courts.) Councillor McArthur mentioned that the pickleball association has been fundraising. He also pointed out that he had added to the motion about the 8 pickleball courts for administration to report back about achieving economies of scale and putting in a third hard surface for tennis. 

Councillor Pouget asked the Mayor since he voted in favour of the 8 pickleball courts if he would make the motion to reconsider. He replied that he agreed with Councillor McArthur and did not wish to reconsider the decision. 

Deputy Mayor Gibb made a motion to receive the delegation. He noted that he voted in favour of the dedicated pickleball courts. He also said that if we had the money he would gladly put in more courts, ball diamonds, a pool etc etc. Deputy Mayor Gibb also noted that all of this lack of amenities did not go downhill in one term and would not be fixed in one term. He noted that finally, Amherstburg has a 5 year capital plan that has planned funding for fixing parks, roads, buildings and other town-owned amenities. He felt that it is not the will that is stopping council from putting in amenities, since if they could they would, they just simply don’t have the money. (This really struck since I knew there several delegates waiting to speak about lowering the tax increase…..we can’t lower taxes AND get new amenities….there are many that want amenities and there are some that want lower taxes….don’t tell me we can have both….because life doesn’t work that way….can’t lower your income AND buy shiny new things….nope….) 

Anyway, the delegation about tennis courts turned into a discussion about basketball, volleyball and Centennial Park. I stopped taking notes. The delegation was received at 7:20.

Delegation – Item 10.2 – Jon Parks 

Mr Parks delegated to council next. He was asking that council send the budget back to administration and get the increase down to the rate of inflation, around 3%.

Mayor Prue passed the gavel to point out that he does not have Strong Mayor powers and that he is one vote of seven. 

Councillor Pouget felt that the Mayor has power and the right to make recommendations. Mayor Prue said that he did make many recommendations. (Yes,ironically, Mayor Prue does speak a lot and does make recommendations often….even though, from my understanding, the chair of the meeting is supposed to remain neutral….?) 

Councillor Allaire felt that they were all hoping to get the budget lower and that she will try harder next year. 

The delegation was eventually received. 

Delegation – Item 10.2 – Donna Geoffrey Hibbert 

The Hibbert’s were the next to delegate to council. They expressed their displeasure about the tax increase. Ms Hibbert felt that the focus should be on what was taken away and replace it when we can afford it. Mr Hibbert felt that too many years have had increased taxes and increased spending and he felt that it wasn’t responsible spending. 

Ms Hibbert had quoted many numbers and Mayor Prue questioned her about it. He tried to explain how the percentages worked. The Treasurer intervened as well about the total percentage of the county, the town and the school board. The Mayor again said that they couldn’t be added together and explained the process. (I take my notes by hand and there was no way I could get this accurately – watch the video if you’re interested in the math involved.) 

There were a few comments by council and then the delegation was received. 

Delegation – Item 10.2 – Janette Ouellette 

Ms Ouellette addressed council next. She felt that a 6.44% increase was a lot to ask. She noted how the cost of living has increased and that people are having a hard time. She wondered if we really needed $500,000 for pickleball courts and could instead put it off for later. 

Councillor Crain spoke and wanted something on the record. He pointed out that the pickleball courts have no impact on this year’s tax levy. He pointed out that council was using the same amount from reserves as they did in 2023 to fund the capital projects. He made it clear that if council were to not proceed with pickleball courts , it would have no effect on the tax levy this year. (Thank you Councillor Crain for making that clear to all those in attendance and those of us watching!) 

Councillor Pouget then spoke and felt that paying for pickleball courts from reserves was a dangerous precedent. She felt that it was not good business practice. And pointed out that she had voted against this item. 

(I’m going to take a moment for a small tangent about two things…..first taking money from reserves during the budget deliberations is a planned expense and is done annually for various projects. It’s very different than when reserves are used on the fly during the year for pet projects or random ideas that suddenly get presented and council runs with it. Second, this constant pointing out about having voted against things, or having “lost” the vote, or being “outvoted” by the others….all that does is create yet more division and conflict. I think that the council code of conduct says that council is supposed to uphold council decisions once they’re made, not speak against them…..it’s an ugly thing this rhetoric and sadly, the Mayor let it happen all evening….and worse, I see members of council posting divisive and antagonist comments such as this on social media…..so much for working together. Sad.) 

The delegation was received. 

Delegation – Item 10.2 Sue & Rodger Hudson 

The next delegation was the Hudson’s. They presented a powerpoint presentation with some numbers that they had put together. They also had suggestions for changes to the budget process for next year. They needed an extension beyond the 5 minute limit for delegations. 

Councillor Allaire felt that their presentation was absolutely amazing. She wanted members of council to sit with administration regarding the budget and what people want. She loved their proposed solution to the budget process. Councillor Allaire felt that she loved their presentation and their “report”. 

Councillor Pouget made a motion for the presentation to go to the Audit and Finance Committee to see if they have any advice or recommendations for council. Councillor Allaire seconded it. 

(And once again…..what a slap in the face to our town staff…..we have how many CPA’s on staff and people with specific education and training for municipal budgets, yet some members of council feel that volunteer committees know it all and want their advice….and disregards staff advice and work….it must be absolutely disheartening for some members of our town administration to have to listen to all of this and to be treated this way by some on council….)

Mayor Prue spoke about how the amount of money being given to the town from senior levels of government has declined and declined enormously. The Mayor referred to an advertisement that ran in the River Town Times by our MPP, Anthony Leardi showing exactly how much the amount has declined the past two years. Mayor Prue noted that the funding from the provincial government was down about $450,000 just this year, which was just under 2% of the tax increase. The provincial government also mandated an asset management plan that the town must put in place and it is approximately 1.6% that has to be added before they even begin the budget. He also noted how the development fees have been cut. 

There was some back and forth between the Treasurer and Mr Hudson about development charges and how they work. The Mayor got involved too. 

Finally, a motion to receive was made….and to send the Hudson’s powerpoint presentation to the Audit and Finance Committee for their input. 

Delegation – Item 10.2 Lynn Sinasac 

Ms Sinasac then delegated to council. She asked council to reconsider the operating budget and pleaded for fiscal restraint. 

Councillor Pouget then spoke at length. She noted that she had voted against the budget. She listed off the many items that she had voted against in the budget, and the “necessities” that she had voted for. She spoke at length about voting against the fire hall and even made a comment about the “famous 4 against 3 vote”. She again reiterated that she felt that taking money from reserves was not good business practice. She said she would be voting against the budget and wanted a recorded vote at that time. 

(After listening to that….I don’t think that Mayor Prue will ever see consensus on this council….such divisive words…..) 

There was a motion to receive the delegation and it carried. 

2024 Operating and Capital Budgets

Now the budget that had been approved in principle at the last meeting (except by Councillor Pouget, in case you forgot) was before council. 

Councillor Allaire said that she still stood by what she had voted for and against during budget deliberations. She felt that she had tried hard. She said that she would vote in favour of the budget but gave kudos to Councillor Pouget. She felt that continuously spending from reserves was a push in the wrong direction. (I seem to recall at least one or two on the fly motions this year to take money from reserves by Councillor Allaire….the crossing guards comes to mind….again, this is budgeted money from reserves, very, very different that pulling from reserves unplanned and unbudgeted…..but I digress…)

Deputy Mayor Gibb then made the motion to approve the budget as per the recommendations. 

It is recommended that: 

1. The 2024 Operating Budget BE ADOPTED and the 2024 total own purposes tax levy of $31,305,898 including $29,883,462 general levy and $1,422,436 special capital levy, BE APPROVED; 

2. Council APPROVE the 2024 Capital Budget Projects totally $12,863,712, inclusive of the following previously approved capital projects; PLN-001-24 – $56,500; ENV-009-23 – $21,212 and PAR-002-23 – $3,060,000, and APPROVE IN PRINCIPLE the proposed capital projects for 2025 to 2028 totally $51,027,200; and, 

3. Administration REPORT BACK with a Final Levy By-law for adoption of the 2024 tax rates, based on the approved 2024 own purposes tax levy

Deputy Mayor Gibb then spoke to the motion. Right off the bat, he said that he would be saying things that would probably upset everybody in the room. He felt that the town is at a crossroads. He noted that Amherstburg does not have enough money in reserves, like other municipalities, because year after year council’s have not been doing what they needed to do, they’ve been doing what they wanted to do.  He also noted that last year, council approved the lowest increase in the county at 3% and that it was a mistake and that is why council and Amherstburg are paying for it now. Deputy Mayor Gibb felt that the Mayor was right about the province lowering the amount of funding that they provide municipalities and downloading more and more expenses. Deputy Mayor Gibb said that he was not there to do what was popular or what the crowd in the gallery wanted, but that he was there to do what is right for the next generation of Amherstburg residents. He mentioned how we have so many roads in bad shape, we’re not prepared for flooding, our buildings in disrepair…..because nobody stood up and paid the price to repair these things. At one point while Deputy Mayor Gibb was speaking, somebody called out something from the gallery and he said “I’m speaking”. (I find this so disrespectful when people in the gallery call out while a member of council is speaking….more on that later…)  He pointed out that council had spent money from reserves for the Golden Age Club to fix the building at 179 Victoria St, they spent money out of reserves for the Navy Yard Park and yes, they’re spending money out of reserves for pickleball. Deputy Mayor Gibb said that when he was knocking on doors during the election, the thing he heard most was that people wanted more amenities and they wanted more events and things to do. He felt that council has delivered on that. He felt that this is the budget that Amherstburg needs at this time. When he finished speaking, Mayor Prue had to pound the gavel and call for order….because the people in the gallery talking, yelling, heckling….not sure, I was at home, but I could hear background noise and voices….and if the Mayor had to pound the gavel and call for order, I have to guess that the behaviour in the gallery probably wasn’t very respectful. 

Councillor Crain spoke next. He said he was first elected in October 2022 and one month later the province made funding cuts to municipalities, which he felt was a portion of the reason why the town has to have a tax increase. He also noted that inflation is affecting the town’s budget and that Amherstburg has consistently had tax increases below the rate of inflation. Councillor Crain mentioned our high level of debt and low level of reserves and that we are now paying the price for that. He also noted that the budget is consistent with the recommendations in the town’s Asset Management Plan. He said that they had to make tough decisions but that it was important to leave the municipality for future generations. 

Councillor McArthur then spoke about how he did not campaign on lowering taxes at the expense of our future. He felt that cutting taxes, not keeping pace with inflation and not investing makes a whole community fall apart and that people will flee. He felt that people want to live here in Amherstburg because of everything that we have. He also noted that council will have to raise taxes next year and the year after if they want to invest in our community. He said he would be supporting the budget since it would see the fence torn down at Duffy’s, it would see a safe passageway in McGregor, it would allow for firefighters, police and snow plow operators to be paid. He also noted that our roads need improvements now. Councillor McArthur also expressed that he supported festivals and supported Cars Gone Crazy, River Lights, Open Air, the TRUE Festival and Truth & Reconciliation through budget approvals. He noted that the grant money that was given in the budget supports the pillars of our Strategic Plan as well as supporting the Park House Museum, the Food & Fellowship Mission and the Freedom Museum. He felt that Amherstburg is skyrocketing on an upward trajectory. (I sooo have to agree…..when I attend our many events, talking with people, they love living here and others love visiting here….some love visiting here so much that they decide to live here….)

Mayor Prue passed the gavel. He explained that he has been involved with sitting through budget deliberations for more than 30 years and that it’s important to reflect on what is happening at the time. He noted how the federal and provincial governments are running deficits but municipalities are not allowed to run deficits. Mayor Prue noted that the town has to give what residents need. He felt that people were not factoring in what the province has done and how the amounts received by the municipality have disastrously declined. He noted that in 2023, Amherstburg had the lowest tax increase of all 7 surrounding municipalities, at 3%. He noted that this year, Kingsville is facing a 8.1% increase, LaSalle a 6.5% increase and we are sitting at third place at 6.44%. He noted that Leaminginton would have been over a 10% increase but since they have over 100 Million in reserves they were able to take money out of reserves to lower the tax rate. Amherstburg doesn’t have that luxury. He felt that council had spent two long days debating the budget. They won some, they lost some but they did it right. He said he wasn’t happy but he wasn’t sad either, he felt proud of council’s work. The Mayor also noted that the County sent the budget back to get the rate down and money had to be taken from reserves to do so and get it to 4.95%. He said that we are a small town, with a limited budget and not enough in reserves. 

There was a bunch of back and forth about the cost of the fire hall between the Mayor, Councillor Pouget and the Treasurer. I was tired….I didn’t write it all down…watch the video if you’re interested. 

Anyway, finally the budget recommendations noted above went to a vote : 

Support : Councillor Allaire, Councillor Crain, Deputy Mayor Gibb, Councillor McArthur, and Mayor Prue. 

Absent : Councillor Courtney

Opposed : Councillor Pouget…I’m not sure if she has ever voted in favour of any budget. Pure political games….

Council took a 10 minute recess. That was good. My phone was exploding with people that were watching the meeting. I had a few minutes to answer….I find it very difficult to follow the meeting and text at the same time, I miss things when I do that.

After the recess, many items went through with little or no discussion. 

Adoption of Notice of Trespass Policy

It seems that the town does not have a formal policy regarding notice of trespass. 

From the background portion of the report : “The Corporation of the Town of Amherstburg possesses various properties utilized by the public and offers a diverse range of services accessible to the community. In its capacity as a property owner and service provider, the Town is dedicated to safeguarding the peaceful enjoyment and utilization of municipal property for all citizens, as well as upholding the freedom for individuals to engage in peaceful demonstrations and express dissenting views. Additionally, the Town has legal obligations to maintain the reasonable safety of property users and implement adequate measures to protect its employees in the workplace. 

While the majority of individuals using Town properties or services do so appropriately, there are instances where people engage in behaviours that disrupt Town business or activities, or pose threats to staff and other users of Town facilities. In response to these concerns, Administration is recommending the adoption of a Notice of Trespass policy designed to align with existing policies in municipalities of similar demographics, current best practices and legislative and regulatory requirements.”

Councillor Allaire asked if the policy would allow the town to provide more enforcement. The Clerk explained that the policy allowed council to put in some boundaries and gives guidance to administration with restraints for the policy. 

Mayor Prue passed the gavel. He felt a bit of apprehension about this and started talking about the lobbyist registry that was presented to the past council, the one that he did not support. He said that he was reluctant to tell people that they couldn’t come back but he was okay with having people leave if they were yelling. He noted that they have to protect staff. Then he kind of talked about how it was okay for people to yell…..it kind of went full circle. Odd. 

The Clerk pointed out that the policy is progressive and gradual and would not be for minor disruptions. He noted that it was in keeping with the harassment policy and that they have to protect staff. The policy would be part of the annual review policy. 

Deputy Mayor Gibb felt that council had to balance the right for people to express themselves but that they also need to protect staff and the public. He asked if a majority of council could overrule the CAO if the policy were to be used. 

The Clerk explained that if council gives direction, the CAO has to act. He also said amendments could be made to the policy. 

Councillor McArthur noted that the CAO is council’s only employee and it is her duty to protect the staff. He said that the CAO would be free to exercise her right to use the policy but that council should be advised in real time. 

Eventually, the motion was made and carried. The policy will be put in place. 

The meeting dragged on….this blog is dragging on….I’m having a hard time reliving the meeting and writing it all up….these past two meetings have been really painful….so in the interest of preserving what energy I have left, I’m ending it here. As always, if you want a first-hand viewing and ALL of the information, watch the video…..The meeting adjourned at 9:46 PM so you’ve got to have just over 3 and a half hours if you want to watch it all…

And with the new bylaw, the agenda for the next meeting will be out this Friday, in just a few days. So I’ll be back before I know it with a pre-meeting blog. 
Thanks for reading! I will keep powering through and blogging…just seems I have to dig a little deeper to get ‘er done lately. 🙂

Have a great week Amherstburg!

In preparation for Monday January 29th Regular town council meeting

I had barely finished writing the budget meeting blog (and only one of them because I needed help, such a huge task!) and it was already Friday January 19th which was 10 days before the next meeting scheduled for January 29th….and there, in my emails, was the agenda for another meeting. I didn’t rush to write the pre-meeting blog, because, well, I needed a breather after the budget debacle. So here is a preview of some of the items coming up on Monday January 29th…..

Here is the link to the full agenda in case you want to read it all. (I just give the highlights) https://pub-amherstburg.escribemeetings.com/Meeting.aspx?Id=df6b8eed-6be8-4bd3-8fb0-3fcc2a5e0d11&Agenda=Agenda&lang=English

And here is the PDF version of the agenda…..it’s 666 pages, not sure if you’re superstitious but…. https://calendar.amherstburg.ca/council/Detail/2024-01-29-1800-Regular-Council-Meeting/0a54c6d3-d795-46d2-808f-b0fc015ecedd

Here are the highlights coming up : 

DELEGATIONS 

Delegation – Item 11.1- Community and Senior Centre (179 Victoria Street) Update – Golden Age Club – Dorothy Thrasher

There is only a bit of information on Mrs Thrasher’s delegation form. It appears that she will be asking to have fees waived for the use of the town’s building at 179 Victoria Street. I will listen closely on Monday night to get more information. 

PRESENTATIONS

Water and Wastewater Rate Study Presentation – Nick Larson, P.Eng., Ontario Clean Water Agency (OCWA) 

It looks like the OCWA will be presenting to council regarding the water and wastewater rate study that was done. I’ve seen presentations made to council before about water and wastewater and they are often very dry. Pun intended. I found this part a little bit interesting, from the Discussion portion of the presentation : 

Discussion

 • Required annual rate increases of between 2% (high growth scenario) and 3.5% (low growth scenario) 

• 3% rate increase for 2024 appropriate since there was no increase to rates in 2023

• Real Growth impacts required rate increases & capital plan

• Continued monitoring of revenue, building permits and development applications will be used to adjust annual rate increases 

• More frequent updates to rate study is appropriate due to recent volatile inflation rates and growth pressures

Otherwise, I will listen closely….

2023 Water and Waste Water Rate Study

There is an administrative report linked to the above presentation. Here are the recommendations in the report : 

It is recommended that: 

1. The report from OWCA for the 2023 Amherstburg Water and Waste Water Rate Study BE RECEIVED for information. 

2. That Council ADOPT the Recommendation for future rate increases as proposed in the report; and 

3. Council DIRECT Administration to initiate a program to review Water and Wastewater rates every 3 years.

2024 Operating and Capital Budgets

Council spent over 11 (painful for the most part) hours deliberating the 2024 budget just last week. They went through it all, line by line, and approved the budget in principle, with amendments that they made while they deliberated. Some items were removed, changed, added etc. So now they need to give it all a final approval. The report outlines the changes that were made in both the operating and capital budgets. 

As far as the capital budget goes, council deferred a decision about putting a structure on Boblo to house the fire truck (with washrooms) and are awaiting a further report. (cost of $464,000) As well, the sidewalk on Pickering St will only be built once the LCBO in the Wal-Mart plaza is constructed. As well, the two hard court surfaces for the Libro centre will both be for pickleball now, as per council’s decision during budget deliberations. (Although there was a report and cost requested for a third multi-use court since it will be cheaper to add a third court while they’re building the other two…..but I’m not sure when that report will come before council.)  And finally, council also directed administration to find $500,000 for the 2025 budget for development of H. Murray Smith Centennial Park. 

Here is the report if you’d like to take a read about the importance of adopting the 2024 budget. https://pub-amherstburg.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=13662

And here are the recommendations : 

It is recommended that: 

1. The 2024 Operating Budget BE ADOPTED and the 2024 total own purposes tax levy of $31,305,898 including $29,883,462 general levy and $1,422,436 special capital levy, BE APPROVED; 

2. Council APPROVE the 2024 Capital Budget Projects totally $12,863,712, inclusive of the following previously approved capital projects; PLN-001-24 – $56,500; ENV-009-23 – $21,212 and PAR-002-23 – $3,060,000, and APPROVE IN PRINCIPLE the proposed capital projects for 2025 to 2028 totally $51,027,200; and, 

3. Administration REPORT BACK with a Final Levy By-law for adoption of the 2024 tax rates, based on the approved 2024 own purposes tax levy

Community and Senior Centre (179 Victoria Street) Update

If you recall, during budget deliberations, there was a grant request from the Golden Age Club for rental fees to be waived for them to use the building at 179 Victoria Street. It showed as $0 in the grant submission because, at the time, rental rates have yet to be determined. During budget deliberations, the following motion was made: 

That: 

1. Council TO DEFER the consideration of the Community Grant request in relation to Fort Malden Golden Age Services Community Grant request to the next Regular Council Meeting.

2. Council TO DIRECT Administration to prepare a report regarding the Fort Malden Golden Age Seniors to reflect a net zero balance in budget. 

So, the above motion has come to fruition already. There is a report in Monday night’s agenda regarding the building. 

There has been extensive work done to refurbish the building. Over $90,000 has been spent so far. It looks like administration is seeking council direction for the town to enter into an agreement with the Fort Malden Golden Age Club to use the space, which ultimately council would approve. It seems that all other user groups that use town-owned facilities have agreements in place yet the Golden Age Club does not at the moment. Here are the recommendations from the report : 

It is recommended that: 

1. Council RECEIVE this report for information and; 

2. Council DIRECT Administration to negotiate the terms of use for the building located at 179 Victoria with the Fort Malden Golden Age Club, to be brought back to Council for approval of the user agreement subject to the current needs of the group and all applicable Town Policies; 

3. Council APPROVE the re-naming of the building located at 179 Victoria to be the H. Murray Smith Community & Seniors Centre; 

4. Council DIRECT Administration to create programming and opportunities for 179 Victoria to be rented for use as directed by Council in accordance with the most current User Fee By-Law and Schedule of Fees as approved by Council; and, 

5. Council DELEGATE the authority to the CAO to sign and execute any such agreements, contracts, purchase orders and or procurement contracts as may be required to fully execute and provide increased programming for Town Facilities including 179 Victoria, in accordance with the Town’s procurement policy, satisfactory in technical content to the Director of Parks Facilities and Recreation and in Financial content to the Town’s Chief Financial Office.

Here’s the link to the report if this interests you. https://pub-amherstburg.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=13668

Canard Estates Subdivision Phase 2 – Acceptance of Infrastructure — and Start of Maintenance

This looks to be fairly standard items in order to allow for phase 2 of the Canard Estates Subdivision in the McGregor area to proceed. Here are the recommendations : 

It is recommended that: 

1. The recommendations of the consulting engineer, RC Spencer regarding the placement of underground infrastructure, curbs, and base asphalt onto maintenance within Canard Estates Subdivision Phase 2 BE ACCEPTED; and, 

2. The underground infrastructure, curbs, and base asphalt within Canard Estates Subdivision Phase 2 BE PLACED on a 1-year maintenance period, commencing January 29, 2024. 

2nd Concession Rd North Road Reconstruction – County Road 10 to 278 South Riverview – Tender Results

The request for tender for the Second Concession Rd North reconstruction went out in December. Well, the results are in so the road will finally get some work done! 

From the Risks Analysis section of the report : “The 2 nd Concession Rd 2 North is considered in the ‘NOW’ category in the 2021 Roads Needs Study and was the highest ranked rural road in the study other than the 8th Concession North which has had construction delayed pending the conclusion of the McGregor Lagoons / Howard Industrial Servicing EA. If not rehabilitated, the road will continue to deteriorate. Not awarding this tender would delay the replacement and improvements to the road condition and could expose the Town to increased cost with respect to inflation and further maintenance on the road.”

Here are the recommendations : 

It is recommended that: 

1. Council APPROVE for immediate use $3,926,975 in funding for the 2 nd Concession Rd North Road Reconstruction with $125,000 to be funded from Lifecycle Reserve, $2,113,005 to be funded by OCIF Grant, $1,673,970 to be funded by reserve – General and $15,000 to be funded by CCBF – Gas Tax; 

2. Council AUTHORIZE the Chief Administrative Officer and Clerk to execute an agreement with Pier Con Enterprises Inc., for services outlined in the tender documents in the amount of $3,686,657.20 plus HST, subject to approval of content by the Director of Infrastructure Services and to financial content by the Director of Corporate Services/Chief Financial Officer; and, 

3. Council AUTHORIZE the Chief Administrative Officer, or designate, to amend the agreement with Piera Con Enterprises Inc. if required to expand the scope of the work plan, provided such additional services remain within the total project funding of $4,038,005 inclusive of HST and subject to approval of content by the Director of Infrastructure Services and to financial content by the Director of Corporate Services/Chief Financial Officer.

From Vision to Results – 2023 Municipal Accomplishments

It looks like the CAO has prepared a document with many of council’s accomplishments from 2023, work that’s been done, direction that was given etc etc. Frankly, this document makes council look really, really good. The irony that this beautiful document that helps council look good was prepared by the administrative staff….the same administrative staff that some members of council disregard, their advice and their qualifications in order to give more credence to volunteer committees was not lost on me. 

It’s basically like a year in review type of thing. Pretty interesting stuff. 

Here is the preamble at the beginning of the document, just for context : “This document reflects the plans approved by Council in the 2023 budget. The approved budgeted projects shaped the vision for this past year’s work, and through the determined efforts of staff, we transitioned this vision to results. Listed throughout this document are many of the accomplishments achieved, and it is important to note that although it highlights many projects, it is not inclusive of all work completed.”

Anyway, take a look through it. Here it is https://pub-amherstburg.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=13659

Adoption of Notice of Trespass Policy

It seems that the town does not have a formal policy regarding notice of trespass. 

From the background portion of the report : “The Corporation of the Town of Amherstburg possesses various properties utilized by the public and offers a diverse range of services accessible to the community. In its capacity as a property owner and service provider, the Town is dedicated to safeguarding the peaceful enjoyment and utilization of municipal property for all citizens, as well as upholding the freedom for individuals to engage in peaceful demonstrations and express dissenting views. Additionally, the Town has legal obligations to maintain the reasonable safety of property users and implement adequate measures to protect its employees in the workplace. 

While the majority of individuals using Town properties or services do so appropriately, there are instances where people engage in behaviours that disrupt Town business or activities, or pose threats to staff and other users of Town facilities. In response to these concerns, Administration is recommending the adoption of a Notice of Trespass policy designed to align with existing policies in municipalities of similar demographics, current best practices and legislative and regulatory requirements.”

I seem to recall a few years back that a resident was issued a trespass notice in Amherstburg.

For those that are interested in reading the full report, here is the link : https://pub-amherstburg.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=13656

Proactive Risk Management and Accessible Sidewalk Repairs

I was really happy to see this report! I have several family members that have mobility issues and we have found the sidewalks downtown, with the random trees growing right out of the middle of them, quite problematic. Not only is there a tree to get around right smack in the middle of the sidewalk, the tree roots cause the bricks to heave and become uneven. 

It appears that administration is proposing the removal of the trees and their stumps and then lift the brick sidewalks and reset them in order to have a smooth and even surface. It seems that planters with flowering plants will be installed on the Richmond Street corridor, in the same general area, but placed in a way to not obstruct the flow of traffic. The planters would only be installed in areas that have enough space to allow for them and the flow of pedestrian traffic. 

I have a really great memory (some say it’s a curse) but I do recall perhaps 15 years ago or so, administration of the day had proposed removing the trees downtown but there were some residents that protested to “Save the trees” and they prevailed. The trees are still there and continue to cause endless accessibility problems. 

I anticipate a lengthy discussion about this Monday night. Anything that involves trees usually turns into a big ordeal. Mix in accessibility and I have to guess some members of council will have a book’s worth of “questions”…..of course they could ask them ahead of time….but, well…..that would be efficient and we can’t have a discussion that is efficient and productive, can we? Maybe? We shall see I guess. 

Here are the recommendations from the report : 

It is recommended that: 

1. Administration BE DIRECTED to prepare a tender for works associated with the sidewalk repairs in the downtown core as noted in the report of January 29, 2024 with a budget not to exceed $31,000 (excluding HST); 

2. Administration BE DIRECTED to consult with its advisory committees on the proposed works in the following manner: 

a. Heritage Committee – Regarding Historic Interlocking Brick Sidewalks 

b. Environmental Advisory Committee – Regarding Carolingian Species 

c. Accessibility Advisory Committee – Regarding Barrier Free Routes of Travel 

d. Economic Development Advisory Committee – Regarding Streetscape Beautification 

3. A transfer not to exceed $31,000 (excluding HST) from the AODA Compliance Reserve Fund BE AUTHORIZED to perform works associated with the noted sidewalk repairs within the downtown core.

Here is the link to the full report : https://pub-amherstburg.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=13636

Information Reports, Consent Correspondence, Other Minutes, Unfinished Business, ….etc etc etc 

There are 2 information reports, one consent correspondence, 5 correspondence items, 4 consent other minutes, one other minutes, unfinished business……so quite a lot of items…..and then….

New Business

It will be interesting to see if any councillors ask for reports about items, or if it will just be random little questions about random odd items…..who knows? One thing for sure, new business is always the wild card. 

I’ll see you guys sometime next week when I write up the post-meeting summary. Writing up the summary for the Monday night budget meeting took its toll! Fingers crossed for a healthy, respectful and efficient meeting Monday night! 

Budget meeting #2 Tuesday January 16th 2024

A huge thank you to guest blogger, Lori Wightman, that watched and summarized the Tuesday budget meeting. This was a huge task and is very appreciated! The rest of this blog is written by guest blogger, Lori Wightman.

Tuesday Budget Day

Councillor Courtney via Zoom

Operating Budget

They started the meeting at the Facilities portion of the budget

All the Facilities Department line items had council agreeing with staff recommendations with no discussions. 

Mayor passed the gavel to ask a question. It was just a question for clarification, I don’t think he needs to do that. As a matter of fact, two line items down he asked the same kind of clarifying question and didn’t pass the gavel for that one. 

Pass the Gavel score – 1

Parks Budget

PAR-001 Commemorative Bench Tree Program – Councillor Allaire how many people use the commemoration program (8 last year) and were there any complaints about how it had to be renewed every 10 years (none to date).

Mayor passed the gavel to ask a question – the benches are expensive, in Rome last year the mayor saw plastic benches that are virtually indestructible and made of plastic waste – can we use that? For ease of maintenance, parts replacement etc the town tries to stay within 3 select types. Sometimes plastic benches have issues as well. Council agrees with staff recommendation, this item had no budget impact.

Pass the gavel score – 2

PAR-002 Contracted service for accessible porta potties in various parks, staff recommendation is no.  Councillor Allaire spoke of how she likes this idea and that people want parks and rec items. She felt the town needs to step up to meet AODA guidelines so accessible ones. “It sucks for all the moms who don’t have boys that can’t pee on trees, to be honest. That’s just me being completely blunt”

 I found this to be a bit of a crude comment and unnecessary. The point could have been made much more professionally. 

Mayor stepped in to clarify Councillor Allaire’s motion to approve this expenditure. 

Councillor Crain asked if there was a funding source identified (comes from the base budget)

Here’s where the talking began – our council seems to feel that everyone should have a chance to talk, often saying the same things over and over. There is really no need to reiterate the entire thoughts and comments of the motioner when agreeing with the motion. And in addition, the debate should not go round and round the table multiple times. That’s not how Robert’s Rules of Order works. 

Anyway, the motion carried and there will porta potties – Accessible ones!

A bunch of other Parks things were passed, agreeing with staff recommendations with no discussions – Co-An park, uniforms, health and safety equipment, naturalized areas, 

Recreation Budget

REC-001 Wage increase for fitness instructor, staff recommend yes, passed no discussion

REC-002 Recreation Coordinator – 1 year contract, staff recommends yes

Councillor Allaire asked if this comes from reserves (yes, tax stabilisation fund) Why one year? (to do the research, collect info from user groups to see what programs are wanted and needed. and to co-ordinate and offer those programs. There is more space available for programming in the Libro) 

Councillor Pouget can’t support it because there is no proof it would benefit the town of Amherstburg and that it would be done midday when people are working.

How could it not? Its programming for residents – children, adults, seniors. It’s a position that will research what is wanted/needed from the people who want and need it. Don’t we hear often of there’s nothing for seniors, there’s nothing for kids. This is a step in getting those things people have been asking for. I imagine that part of the research would be to discover WHEN programs would be most beneficial. 

Councillor Courtney didn’t see the merit here yet. “We haven’t even identified what new programs we can create”. He felt we should look at the organisational charts from other municipalities. 

That is exactly what this position is for – to co-ordinate and research what new programs we can create. Sigh. And this is the first time today that comparing us to other municipalities was brought up in that we SHOULD compare. Keep that in mind. 

Let’s Compare Score – 1

Administrations spoke of how programming is growing and is often sold out. We are having problems when we attain grants. We then have difficulty fulfilling the grant projects because of staff deficiencies. They are asking for one person but that one person will be doing two jobs. 

Councillor Courtney asked questions about who does the programs now (students – which is sometimes a challenge with their school schedule) He then reiterated that we haven’t decided what our programming should be yet so it will be a no from him.

Deputy Mayor Gibb said people are always asking for more programming at the Libro and it’s becoming less just an arena and more a recreation complex.

Councillor McArthur – it’s a pilot project, one time cost. It will have a profound impact and will align us with other municipalities.

Councillor Crain felt this would put us inline with other municipalities. The instructors handle the day to day and this coordinator would oversee and develop programming.

Let’s Compare Score – 3

Councillor Allaire – looking online, there are 19 programs currently running with 16 instructors. Santa Breakfast was full, two seatings. Other municipalities are impressed with all we are doing. 

Councillor Courtney – “looks like it’s gonna go through and again, I respect democracy” Then he said something about he didn’t want to educate you guys and talked about there being two things, a fiduciary responsibility – then he talked about how we don’t have justification for this position. And secondly, he pointed out that the CAO said we shouldn’t really be comparing to other communities when Mr. Purdie spoke but yet here we are using organisational charts. Then he reiterated all the points he had already made in his earlier comments.

We Shouldn’t Compare Score – 1

Councillor Pouget asked for a recorded vote

The Mayor said he hadn’t spoken yet so he passed the gavel and talked about it being a difficult one for him. He had difficulty supporting the executive assistant position but he did. This has grown leaps and bounds in the five years he’s been on council. (I’m not sure what he’s talking about here – the Libro centre or the executive assistant position?) He said he wouldn’t support it. 

Pass the Gavel Score 3

Councillor Pouget was concerned that we are told that our reserves are at risk but that we are taking from reserves. Why? The treasurer stated that while it’s not always a good idea to fund from reserves this position has merit.

Yes to the co-ordinator position – Crain, Allaire, Gibb, McArthur

No to the co-ordinator position – Pouget, Courtney, Prue

Motion carried

REC-003 Clothing, staff recommends no, council agrees, no discussion

Tourism Budget

TOU-001 Overtime in tourism, staff recommends no, council agrees, no discussion

TOU-002 Contracted services set up, take down of River LIghts, staff recommends no, council agreed, no discussion.  But then Councillor Courtney did have something to say – the mayor did not see him raise his hand over Zoom. The mayor offered to go back but Councillor Courtney said no, it’s okay but then talked about who took things down currently. (combination of contracted services and staff from tourism and parks.) He wondered why we aren’t using our townspeople as volunteers. 

TOU-003 Community Events

Councillor McArthur mentioned his band plays in the park, it’s not a conflict but he wants it known that in the future band proceeds will go to charity or they will not play. 

Councillor Allaire asked about the Santa Parade, did it cost us $3000 this year. (Yes, it did) She asked how many attended (approximately 10,000) Councillor Allaire says River LIghts is better than Bright Lights in Windsor. Have we asked for sponsors from new businesses or older businesses to re-sponsor their displays. (Admin is looking for a larger sponsorship program). Councillor Allaire is concerned that we should stop expanding since it is costing us more and more in set up and storage costs. “Our town is beautiful as it is” and “We can’t keep getting bigger and better every year” She asked if we get grant money to offset. Admin showed that $119,000 was new investments – this was only made possible by grants.$178,000 base budget to run all our events. – Canada day, Uncommon, NIght Markets, River LIghts etc etc. and the hope is that some of the new things will help to fill in the New Navy Yard expansion. 

Councillor Pouget said she was approached by “a number of volunteers” and they said there was nothing wrong with the other tree (River Lights display) and that they would have actually strung lights on it themselves for free. Instead we have a 30 foot tree that we can’t store anyplace and now we want somewhere to store them for $40,000.

Admin responded that the community had asked that the tree be repaired but it had come to end of life so it wasn’t going to be viable regardless if someone strung extra lights on it – it’s core base had come to end of life.

Here’s where there is a discrepancy. The budget papers talk about how quite a few volunteers have retired/moved on and that there were only 2 remaining volunteers to help with River Lights set up and those two will be retiring in the near future. But Councillor Pouget says she heard from “a number of volunteers”. Two IS a number, I guess. 

Deputy Mayor stated he would support because our community is going to see tremendous growth in the next 5-10 years and these community events are the things that help give us that small town, family feel. It makes us special. Investors who are rebuilding our downtown – the reason that justifies their investment is these kinds of events, our investment in the town. 

Councillor Courtney then said he hasn’t seen any significant grant money come in. And that what we do get added to our assets and that we have the most assets in all the municipalities.

Let’s Compare Score 4

He stated that the NIght market has become a town thing. It hasn’t, it’s done with sponsorship. Admin then stated that $111,000 came in through grants. 

Councillor Courtney then talked about how the Deputy Mayor referenced investors with “I’ve glad they got your ear, Deputy Mayor”  

I’m glad too. It shows the Deputy Mayor is making connections, listening to investors and working on our Economic development. 

Councillor Courtney then referenced what the Deputy Mayor said about empty storefronts being filled by saying he (Councillor Courtney) had “NEVER seen empty storefronts in our town EVER” 

Just a few of the vacant buildings I’ve noted empty in the last 5 years.

Tim Hortons

Elio Del Col gallery (which currently sits empty)

Insurance company and the storefront next door on Richmond. One of which has just recently begun being renovated or something.

The commercial places in the Queen Charlotte have only been filled in the last few of years. 

The new plaza off of Fryer St. 

The storefronts on Richmond across from the Garage Gym have all been empty periodically over the last 5 years with one currently vacant

The building on the corners of Ramsay and Murray (just recently been renovated)

A couple of empty storefronts in the Walmart plaza that have now been filled.

A couple of storefronts in the plaza where Canadian Tire is

The plaza/building across from Canadian Tire – currently sits empty

Councillor Crain pointed out that 9 events at $80,000 total is less than $10,000 per event. He said it’s draining every year to try and cut. Tourism is a huge economic driver. 

Councillor McArthur pointed out that our events align with our Strategic Plan. 

Mayor passed the gavel to ask a question about leftover funds from last year. Admin said that the $30,000 one time cost there to allow them to see if they can get ahead of spending.

Pass the Gavel score – 4

The mayor said everything downtown is wonderful but if we were to amend the budget from reserve to $20,000 would there be difficulty for admin to come back and ask for more if they need it. The mayor then suggested that council make that amendment to $50,000 and $20,000. He suggested that someone make that motion. The Mayor nudged Councillor Allaire to adjust the motion. She said she wasn’t making a motion, she wanted to speak on it. She said that it was an economic driver etc but that we could reduce it and get rid of an event to save costs. That we have been doing fantastic but maybe we can cut. 

Mayor asked if she was making a motion. She said no, there was already a motion on the floor. The mayor said she could make an amendment. She said no. 

It was a weird exchange. The Mayor seemed to be prodding Councillor Allaire to do something. She stated she wanted to remove the $50,000 but she didn’t want to make a motion to do so. 

Councillor McArthur made an amendment that left the $50,000 in the base budget and reduced the one time amount to $20,000

The argument raged on and on as it does every year as tourism and every event fights for its life in this town.

Councillor McArthur had made a good point that he’s a tourist in his own town – enjoying our town. With money being tight for some and inflation going crazy, that’s a benefit to be able to enjoy things in your own town, the feel of a vacation without the cost. 

Councillor Allaire asked for a recorded vote to amend the original motion – keep $50,000 in base budget and reduce the one time cost to $20,000

Yes to amending the motion – Crain, Gibb, McArthur, Prue

No to amending the motion – Allaire, Courtney, Pouget

Carried, the original motion was changed. The Mayor again prodded Councillor Allaire that if she wanted something else she’d have to make a motion…now remember she said she wanted to remove the $50,000 instead. But she said no, she just wanted a recorded vote on this one too. 

Not sure why…the vote is going to be the same. 

Vote stopped after Councillor Allaire because neither Councillor Courtney or Councillor Pouget understood what the vote was for. They thought the previous vote addressed that.

Yes to motion of $50,000 to base and $20,000 for one time – Crain, Gibb, McArthur, Prue

No to motion of $50,000 to base budget and $20,000 for one time – Allaire, Courtney, Pouget

Councillor Courtney said he was having problems hearing some councillors through Zoom. And he thought it was important that he be able to hear. 

I agree, it is important to be able to hear the goings on at council. It seems to me, from watching council meetings, that Councillor Courtney is more often than not on Zoom instead of in chambers. This is worrisome if he also thinks it’s important that he hears everything. I understand that we have a bylaw that allows for Zoom attendance but I think it should be the exception instead of the rule. Just my opinion.

TOU 004 Special Events Co-ordinator, staff recommended yes

There was a lot of discussion on this with admin explaining that this item would be zero cost. It would be part of the student worker complement with just a slightly higher wage due to a little more responsibility. Councillor Allaire wanted to know if this will lead to an increase in the future. Admin said they couldn’t predict the future but that it shouldn’t. Again, not surprisingly, this devolved a bit into an Open Air debate despite that this position was not new and that it would be for all events NOT just Open Air. Admin stated that this position would not JUST work Open Air and would alleviate potential burnout from tourism staff. 

At this point, Councillor Courtney got very echo-y and it was hard to hear him. 

The Special Events Co-ordinator was carried – unanimously. And then the rest of the tourism budget carried as well – Training/Conferences and Uniforms

At this point they recessed for a lifestyle break and presumably to figure out the problem with Councillor Courtney’s audio. 

Building Department Budget

BUI 001 Decrease in revenue, staff recommends yes.

Mayor passed the gavel to ask a question – he asked if building was down that much to make this revenue decrease ($123,100) Admin responded that a number of big builds that we were expecting didn’t happen – the long term care home. They are recommending the reduction out of an abundance of caution. 

Council approved.

Pass the Gavel score – 5

The rest of Building budget passes with no discussion. Contracted services/office supplies, and Training/Professional Development, 

Planning Budget

PLA 001 Presubmission Application fee, $4207 staff recommend yes, council agrees, no discussion

PLA 002 Legal Fees- 3rd party appeals $200,000, staff recommends yes, Staff actually reduced this amount to $100,000 The mayor asked if this was still too high (but didn’t pass the gavel, hmm) Admin explained that we are already scheduled for two Ontario Land Tribunal cases…each of which may cost $15,000 – $20,000 plus all the legal support done in advance. Administration said that they could take this money from reserves and the mayor seemed to jump on that telling the council if they wanted they could do that and reduce the tax burden. 

Councillor Allaire motioned to take $50,000 from reserves and leave $50,000 from taxation, Councillor Pouget seconded.

So, earlier council spoke of reserves “at risk” but then they are considering taking from reserves to contribute to legal fees. It makes no sense.

Councillor Crain asked what that would leave our reserves at, which seemed a good question to ask prior to taking from those reserves. Councillor McArthur asked if we recoup those fees if we “win” at OLT, Admin said only if it’s deemed a frivolous appeal and that benchmark is very high. The mayor then passed the gavel to say he would be supporting this motion. Councillor Pouget said she felt uncomfortable taking money from reserves as they are told repeatedly that it’s not good practice so she would have to vote against. 

Pass the Gavel score – 6

Councillor Pouget asked for a recorded vote 

Approve taking $50,000 from reserves – Allaire, Courtney, Crain, Gibb, McArthur, Prue

 Against taking $50,000 from reserves – Pouget

The rest of the planning budget passes with no discussion – Planning Study Reserve, PLanning Overtime, and  Legal Fees 

Economic Development Budget

EDV 001 EV Charging Stations, $7136 Staff recommends yes, the amount on this was changed to $5300 council agrees, no discussion

Drain Budget

All passes with no discussion.

Public Works Budget

EPW 001 Development Engineering Coordinator, $3750, staff recommends yes. Council agrees, no discussion.

EPW 002 Bridge and Culvert Inspection Report $25,000 staff recommends yes, council agrees, no discussion

EPW 003 Transit Gas Tax Revenue, $195,000, staff recommends, council agrees, Councillor Crain asked how long we’d be getting this tax revenue, Admin says they don’t foresee it ending any time soon. Councillor McArthur pointed out that ridership was up by quite a bit, almost doubled. Deputy Mayor Gibb had an anecdote from a tool and die company owner who he asked if he had ever considered opening up a shop in Amherstburg and the gentleman said no, because there is no bus service and 20-25% of his staff rely on bus service. Council agrees

Councillor Pouget asked a question about the numbers and was citing page numbers – I wasn’t sure what she was referring to but admin explained the math of how the revenue from transit ridership and gas tax minus the expense gives the amount that Councillor Pouget was referring to. Councillor Allaire asked why $300,000 when the actuals were $138,000. Admin stated the first year was not a full year. 

EPW 004 Transit Service $300,000, staff recommends yes, council agrees, no discussion although the previous discussion definitely involved this item

EPW 005 Personnel – 2nd mechanic. $61,800, staff recommends yes

Councillor Courtney asked if we have mechanics compared to other municipalities, Then there was a long discussion of why we would need an in house mechanic, the ask has been around a few years and it is because the cost to send things out to 3rd party is high and a second mechanic would drastically reduce our cost in both time, materials and labour. Then we went around the table again and again with everyone stating and restating the same points. Councillor Courtney thought we could maybe get an apprentice – an idea he got from a local business owner – but admin pointed out that apprentices take time from the main mechanic, defeating the purpose. Mayor passed the gavel. He spoke about a letter he got from a local business that said this would affect their business badly. The mayor wanted to know from admin if this letter was self serving or if it had merit. Admin said they hadn’t seen this letter. 

Let’s Compare Score 4

Pass the Gavel score – 7

Recorded vote asked for by Councillor Pouget

Yes to a second mechanic – Allaire, Crain, Gibb, McArthur, Prue 

No to a second mechanic Courtney, Pouget

Sigh, This position added would save the town money, period. The fact that a business in town would be affected, while sad, should not be a deciding factor. We have a number of dealerships, mechanics, and garages in town. Unless the town spreads their automotive work evenly to each and every business in town, this argument that one business in town would be affected if we opted to save taxpayer money is ridiculous. Especially since there are councillors who have been vocal about other businesses paying their own way for events and such.

EPW 006 Tree Maintenance/Trimming $15,000 staff recommends yes

Councillor Pouget says she hasn’t seen anything on how much we are going to spend on planting trees. Admin says this item just addresses an increase in the budget and that the tree planting budget doesn’t change, it is at $50,000. The money from trees that weren’t planted last year will be brought forward to this year. Council agrees.

EPW 007 Traffic Signal Maintenance $15,000 staff recommends yes, council agrees, 

Council McArthur asked about the crosswalk at the old high school, are we leaving it there, moving it? Admin says we could take it down or shut it down. It would likely be more costly to move it. Councillor Pouget asked if it would be better to wait and see what is going into the new highschool. Councillor Pouget asked about the timing of crossing lights, she receives many complaints. She asked if this is a county issue or is it ours. The streetlights are the town’s issue. Councillor Courtney asked why we’ve always maintained these lights, why do we need more money? Admin said costs are going up (shocking! Who knew?) and that we will be doing inspections. This is a contracted service, we do not have in-house people to do this. The mayor passed the gavel to say he gets emails asking if the town has ever considered traffic cameras since we are maintaining the lights anyway. Admin says years ago this was looked into and it was costly and the council of the day decided not to move forward. 

Council agrees to line item

Pass the Gavel score – 8

EPW 008 Storm and Sewer drains $35,000 staff recommends yes, council agrees Councillor Pouget asked about catch basins, 

EPW 009 Road Maintenance Gravel $25,000 staff recommends yes, council agrees. Councillor Pouget regarding ACS building on Victoria, will they fill the potholes with gravel? Admin believes  the lot was graded but no additional gravel was added because it would make the grade worse. It needs to be dug out and drainage needs to be added. A report will be forthcoming. 

Water Budget

WAT 001 Backflow Prevention $11,400 staff recommends yes, council agrees

WAT 002 Water Treatment PLant Maintenance $50,000 staff recommends yes, council agrees

Mayor passed the gavel to ask why a 50% increase in one year. Admin says that line item is regularly overspent so it’s an ask to move the budget up to what we’ve been spending. 

Pass the Gavel score – 10

WWT 001 Inflow and Infiltration -$160,000 staff recommends yes, council agrees., no discussion

WWT 002 Landfill tipping fees $40,000 staff recommends yes, council agrees, no discussion

WWT 003 Big Creek Sewage PLant Maintenance $7500 staff recommends yes, council agrees, no discussion

And that wraps up the Operational Budget with the tax rate at 6.44%

Pass the Gavel Score – 10

Let’s Compare Score – 4

We Shouldn’t Compare Score – 1

They took a break and came back for a couple more Operational Budget issues 

CAO Budget

Councillor Allaire asked about Professional fees is $40,000 for actuals but that we are dropping the base budget to $20,000. Admin said Job Evaluations were done so that money was done in 2022 and the money is a carry over and it won’t be needed next year. 

 The Mayor said he had a question about the police budget but then Councillor Pouget spoke about a letter from a resident that wasn’t allowed to have it on correspondence but he did send it to all of council. She seemed to be reading his letter in which he spoke about  a 13.5% increase in the CAO office budget for 3 members of the team that seems out of the ordinary. He wanted to know if the Audit and Finance Committee reviewed the working documents in this department. There seems to be a trend of over stating the base budget by approximately 10%, this could be a savings of $40,000+ and not impact services. Councillor Pouget then asked admin “Could you please comment on that?’ CAO Critchley said she did not know what base Mr. Hudson was starting from or where Mr. Hudson was counting from. If he was counting before the new council there were changes made to non-union salaries, another salary member was moved into the CAO umbrella – those could be reasons but it’s hard to comment when she doesn’t know where his figures were taken from. 

Aside – here’s the problem  with this. A resident, who is well within his rights to form an opinion and voice his opinion, writes a letter to council, that seems to insinuate that administration is not being fiscally responsible. Then a council member reads this letter, seemingly verbatim, in budget deliberations. Now the admin points out that the letter writer, and by extension the councillor, didn’t have a full view of the issue they were speaking on. Had the councillor asked a few questions prior to this meeting she would have learned that there was a shifting in department members and that there was a salary change and she could have conveyed that to the resident so that EVERYONE was working on the same page instead of administration feeling a little accused (my opinion, I know I would feel a little put out if I were them) and a resident feeling like something sketchy was going on. Council should act as a conduit between themselves, administration and residents to help clarify issues not just to champion a resident’s position. 

Mayor stated that the police budget came in pretty high –  Admin explained that Amherstburg picks up the increases to the Windsor budget, Amherstburg will pay for added services, costs of legislation changes. Admin has questions about these legislational costs and will be meeting with the Chief. We can, contractually, try to negotiate these things. 

Councillor Courtney said we should be asking about numbers of officers that are on duty – perhaps in camera. How many officers did we have previously and how many do we have now? Admin didn’t have the info in front of them but that it might be better to discuss in camera. 

Councillor Pouget has a conflict on this issue 

No other issues on CAO’s budget

Corporate Services Budget

No questions from council

Fire services Budget

Councillor Pouget asked about a building on Boblo for a fire truck that will come up in the Capital Budget.

Parks, Recreation and Culture

Councillor Allaire asked about Malden Community Centre budget number, she asked what building do we have there. There is a washroom and small storage building. She asked about revenue from the Hanging Basket program. Admin said the revenue was a donation from the Horticultural Society but Councillor Allaire said it’s $11,000. Admin thought maybe it had been coded incorrectly.

Development Services

Councillor Allaire had questions about Professional fees, but the base budget seems not inline with actual spending. Because we had newer people, we had extra amounts for professional fees. Councillor Pouget had a question from the public, she proceeded to read from something, her own notes or the actual question from the public, with specific numbers and percentages. Admin thinks that they are referring to the Deputy CAO’s salary and the position of economic development. The Deputy CAO’s salary is allocated to a number of departments – Building, Planning and Economic Development.

Again, this seems to be a misunderstanding of the inner workings of our municipality’s finances. Asking questions is good, assuming answers without full understanding is not so good. 

Engineering and Infrastructure services

No questions. 

NOW, the Operational Budget is done.

Motion to accept the Operations Budget as amended 

Councillor Pouget then asked about a certain page and associated issue papers that were not there and that she had a few things on page 84 that council hadn’t dealt with. The mayor stated that council did deal with them over the last two days. Councillor Pouget said she needs clarification of things that council had already approved.

Councillor Courtney asked if they were adopting the budget in principle 

Motion was changed to Motion to accept the Operations Budget as amended 

Councillor Pouget asked for tax rate in principle 

It is at 6.44%

Motion carried. 

NOW, for reals, the Operational Budget is done….in principle.

Capital Budget

Councillor Courtney declared a conflict for the environmental ENV 004-23 Lakewood Drive Pumping Station

Corporate Services Department – no questions or concerns

Then, Councillor Pouget brought up an item for the 2025 budget

Planning 

Development Charges Study – already been approved by council

Howard Industrial Park Study no questions or comments

Fire Department

Fir 001-24 Building for fire truck on Boblo $464,000

This was interesting. After all the talk a month or so ago about how important it was that the town step in regarding ferry issues  – for the safety and security of Boblo residents – those same councillors seemed to think having a building to house a firetruck on the island was unimportant and should be put off. 

Councillor Pouget thought the developer was responsible for storage. The developer built a temporary structure. Councillor Pouget went to look at it and it looks like it was “put together with bandaid and bubblegum”. She feels the developer made a deal with Amherstburg to house this – what changed? The Fire Chief responded that the developer has no obligation to provide any form of accommodation to our vehicle. It was a corporate citizenship offer in 2018 that we could locate the vehicle in the dancehall. The dancehall became unsuitable for that. The developer continued to offer a goodwill offer to create some protection for the vehicle. It is not really suitable.  

Councillor Courtney spoke of his grave concerns about not being able to get equipment and people over, that we don’t have a properly operating ferry service. He said something about it being a “false falsity” whatever that means. 

There was then a motion to remove this item from the budget entirely. 

It seems that the money for this building is from development charges and can only be used for a building or radio equipment so it can’t just be moved to another part of the budget. The developer has also agreed to supply land for the building. The current storage is not good as it is unheated and allows rodents access to the vehicle which leads to decay of the asset. Also it needs to be under control of the municipality and not someone else. 

There were questions about access and response times, the fire chief said that there are contingency plans for if the ferry is down. He said that even on the mainland there would be times when no volunteers could respond. He said that when this particular truck came to its  end of life, there was another that could be transferred over. 

It really seems as if some councillors really believe that, or worse, want to hear that, our Fire Department is not prepared.

The Mayor passed the gavel to say that if we push this build to the future then the costs could increase. This was one time that the passing of the gavel might have made sense as the mayor was actually arguing a point in the debate. 

Pass the Gavel score – 10

Anyway, there was a motion to remove this item from the 2024 Budget. And then a lot of talking and talking and talking. I think someone asked for a recorded vote. 

Yes to strike item from Budget – Allaire, Courtney, Pouget

No to strike item from Budget – Crain, Gibb, McArthur, Prue

It took Mayor Prue took a full 30 seconds  to vote and when he did vote to oppose striking the item , I heard a “Wow” from someone. I don’t know which councillor it was but that was unprofessional.

Councillor Crain made a motion to support the Fire Building budget item.

A few minutes of discussion and then Councillor McArthur made a motion to defer in the middle of the Fire Chief answering the Deputy Mayor’s question about what the Chief would prefer. A motion to defer until the Chief can make a report. The Chief said he gave two reports to council since 2017. He said it’s not HIS idea, it was part of the long term plan.

The mayor then said a motion to table is probably better than a motion to defer. So the issue is tabled until the Fire Chief can supply reports.

Then there was some confusion as to what was tabled and it carried unanimously. 

Infrastructure Services

Councillor Pouget asked about the installation of sidewalks on Pickering. She stated the work on the LCBO has stopped so should we still be putting that money aside.The  developer had said they would fund sidewalks but it is not an obligation and they have not responded so this is in the budget so that we can install the sidewalks. Councillor Allaire asked if the sidewalk was necessary for accessibility or is it just something nice? Admin said the Accessibility Committee recommended the sidewalks. 

Councillor McArthur asked to further Councillor Pouget’s question on whether the LCBO is still going to happen. Admin said there has been no reasoning to think it isn’t. 

Motion to endorse funding for sidewalk on the condition that LCBO proceeds

Council agrees.

Councillor Pouget regarding Mill and Pave programs at $900,000, is that including North Side Rd between 5th and 6th. Admin said that section is gravel so there are no plans to change that. Mill and Pave is for asphalt roads. Alma is on the docket.

Councillor Pouget re: Rural roads Rehabilitation which roads is that. 

Admin replied engineering for 5th Concession N.

Councillor Allaire was confused about what was approved and what wasn’t. She seemed to be talking about things from 2023. She then asked about sidewalks and which were completed (or will be completed?) It was confusing. She also wanted to know why the 8th concession was pushed back. Admin said the McGregor lagoon is affecting growth as is the Howard Industrial so updating the 8th now then updating the lagoon and industrial area would involve wrecking the newly repaired 8th. If that makes sense. 

I had to miss a small chunk of the meeting but came back just as they were saying they were going to go back and officially approve everything up until now including the one amendment. Council agreed and they moved on to the Environment Department. 

Environment Budget

Councillor Pouget asked about the water metre exchange program, were we at one point taking over the billing for water? Admin said there was a report and was not accepted by council. Mayor asked for a motion to accept the Environment Budget, Then Councillor Courtney said he had something to say, the mayor had not seen him. Councillor Courtney started by apologising that he was attending by Zoom. He asked about the $150,000 for McGregor lagoon and the gravel and boat ramp for in-water maintenance. Admin explained it was a grass area that the boats were put in and they were going to change the entry point. 

Now the motion to approve passed 

Fleet Budget

2 items passed without discussion

Parks Facilities Recreation and Culture

Hands went up all over. 

Councillor Allaire asked about the parking lot replacement for town hall and thought this was “silly” to fix when they might not be staying there since the building is not accessible. Admin said there are issues with the lot and no decision has been made by council about a new town hall. Even if a decision were made tomorrow by council, it could be a year or two before town hall leaves that building. Admin also explained that it’s a liability issue that could cost us more in the long run.

Councillor Pouget asked about Emergency services backup generators – where will that be located. Admin said Town hall, Thomas road and the Libro

Councillor Crain asked about Libro hill grooming – long discussion about sledding and if we need another hill and whether kids would follow rules. 

Oddly, Councillor Allaire who is always about the parks didn’t think a second sledding idea was a good idea because we would be doing trails in other parks and could make it a toboggan hill. And she was referring to Jack Purdie. Which is right across from her house and for which she had claimed a conflict. 

Motion by Councillor Allaire to remove the hill grooming for sledding at the Libro

Seconded by Councillor Pouget

Lots of discussion including speaking about rumours from years ago, fencing being added, concerns about lawsuits, money saving etc. etc. 

And again, we talked in circles with everyone talking again and again saying the same things over and over. I was getting tired and frustrated listening.

Someone asked for a recorded vote

Support the motion to strike the toboggan hill – Allaire, Pouget

Oppose the motion to strike the toboggan hill – Courtney, Crain, Gibb, McArthur, Prue

Motion failed

The mayor asked if anyone had any more questions, no one did so Councillor Crain made a motion to accept the Parks and Rec budget papers, But then Councillor Allaire had more questions about Fire Station 3 HVAC replacement, she thought it was Fire Station 2 not 3. Admin said it’s just a placeholder but they are waiting for tendering on the new Fire Station. 

And a question about roofing replacement. To be honest, I zoned out so I’m not sure what was discussed here. – something about bathrooms and insulation. I dunno.

Then Councillor Pouget asked about the Hub and the part that was to be demolished…why would we repair a roof. Admin said that money is set aside for future years and the rest of the building roof needs repair. 

She asked about the Library. She said she received complaints about the Library, the window sills caving in. Admin said this year they are working on the Gordon House and hoping that that architect could take a look at the library.

Councillor Crain to approve issue papers

Thank you Councillor Crain!!

That brought us to the last hour of the meeting and it was crazy. 

The Parks budget brought out the best and worst of people. Here are the highlights…or lowlights depending on how you feel. 

Councillor Pouget said “we haven’t really cut much from the budget, we still really have a way to go” and she wanted to put off the Parks Master Plan update. 

Then the tennis/pickleball debacle began….

These plans would be put in behind the building and it will be revisited when the master plan is updated.

Councillor Allaire thinks this is a “conscientious” issue. She thought this would get us 2 courts. Admin said council asked for 2 courts and when the tender goes out we will try for 3 courts. To be complete

Pass the Gavel – 11

Mayor said there were a number of people at the budget meeting the night before who were looking for a stand alone pickleball court but that admin is talking about a multi-use court. He thought that council had come to the conclusion that tennis courts at Centennial with pickleball at the Libro

Admin said that 4 pickleball courts can fit in one tennis court and council can decide to do multi courts or dedicated courts. 

Councillor Allaire -” I do appreciate the pickleballers coming forward and making their voices heard”. But I feel like we can’t really make a decision today until we know how many courts we can have. 

Councillor Courtney – regarding the Amherstburg Pickleball Association “I love their passion but I’m starting to hate it” and then he spoke about the noise of pickleball. He said you could get 8 pickleball courts in 2 tennis courts. (You do need 8 courts to have a pickleball tournament)

The problem I see with that is that if you have a multi surface only then if 4 people are playing tennis you could conceivably have 32 pickleball people having to wait. 

Then he spoke about redirecting money from the pumptrack to tennis courts at H. Murray Smith. 

Lots of discussion about who should get what and what is fair and whether taking a pump track from kids to get tennis courts for others. The importance of pickleballers being able to host tournaments that bring people to town. 

Councillor McArthur made a motion to dedicate those two hard courts at Libro to Pickleball and ask that another multiuse (tennis and basketball) be put next to them.

Councillor Allaire –

“we’re feeding that squeaky wheel that gets the oil” 

“If we designate these for pickleball courts and you guys think that we have money for new tennis courts that are just going to miraculously appear in Centennial park in a year, I think you guys are pretty foolish”

“This is very unfair to all the other sports out there”

Councillor Pouget –

“I think this is very unfair”

Both Councillor Allaire and Councillor Pouget likened the pickleball vs. other sports issue to having two children who want two different things. Weird analogy

DM Gibb said what cinched it for him was that the pickleballers NEED a minimum of 8 courts to have a tournament. You can’t make everyone happy.

Councillor Crain said that we’re not saying no to other courts. And we are behind other municipalities in pickleball. 

Let’s Compare Score – 4

Councillor Allaire – we are Amherstburg, we are not every other municipality, we should compare. Then she asked for a recorded vote

We Shouldn’t Compare Score – 2

 The Mayor said he hadn’t spoken yet and then he passed the gavel and said that he doesn’t disagree with the pickleballers but what he disagrees with is pitting them against each other. 

Pass the Gavel – 12

Mayor Prue:  “Look at centennial park, that’s where the tennis courts are going. Centennial Park – nothing this year, nothing next year, nothing in 2026, nothing in 2027 and a quarter of a million dollars in 2028. That is the real shame.”

“For the life of me I don’t understand the foot dragging on Centennial Park”

I do, Mr. Mayor, there was a motion by Councillor Courtney to allow fundraising for a track giving 18 months to do it. When that time limit popped up the time limit was extended another 12 – 18 months. I don’t believe any money has been raised as of  yet.

Mayor Prue: “My number one is to have a swimming pool, just so you know. Still I think that trumps them all.”

Councillor Courtney spoke about how we expedited the skate park and about how he wanted to compromise. And that there is zero on the horizon for others.

Could that be because this council and the one before brought back low tax increases every single year?

Councillor Courtney: “A couple of councillors can’t even say the words H. Murray Smith park, it’s kind of shame really”

 I have no idea what he means by this. The park is regularly referred to by both names. 

Motion to dedicate two hard surface courts to pickleball and admin be directed to bring costs for a hard surface court next to it for basketball or tennis. 

Recorded vote

Support – Crain, Gibb, McArthur, Prue

Opposed – Allaire, Courtney, Pouget

Deputy Mayor Gibb stated that he was in support of starting a plan on Centennial park but that he thought we were waiting on the track fundraising of $1 million. No funds have been brought in for this track. The fundraising end date is the end of this year. 

Councillor Pouget: 

“We all know that Centennial Park is just a disgrace. It’s an absolute disgrace. As Councillor Courtney said some people on this council can’t even say the words H. Murray Smith Centennial Park.”

“…why do we say we’re gonna wait on this, we’re gonna wait on that but we’re gonna give whatever we want to pickleball. I’m just sick of it and I’m ashamed to say I’m part of this council.”

Mayor Prue” Councillor Pouget I think that should be retracted, you cannot. By saying you’re ashamed of the council it means you’re ashamed of the council members and you’re not supposed to disparage any member of council”

Councillor Pouget said something that I couldn’t catch and the mayor replied “I’m not sure that that was appropriate”

It wasn’t appropriate, nor was it professional. But the mayor just let it go and didn’t insist on a retraction or apology. Very weak leadership in my opinion

The Deputy Mayor invited any member of council to make a motion to put something out there for Centennial park right now. 

Councillor Courtney spoke about how the whole west side of the park can be developed and put a motion forward that the money earmarked for the pumptrack $500,000 be reallocated to hard surface courts – tennis and basketball. And that he’d love to go back and vote on pickleball. This would be for the 2025 budget. 

There was a lot of talk about what council should be looking at over the next couple years. 

Councillor McArthur said he would not support it because it’s purely cosmetic, political and meaningless. We’re not actually dedicating any money

Councillor Courtney interrupted that he took offence to that comment. The mayor asked what was offensive to him – That Councillor McArthur used the words cosmetic, political and meaningless in regards to Courtney’s motion. 

Then Councillor Courtney started berating Councillor McArthur for supporting Pickleball at prior meetings and the mayor had to ask to please speak through him. It was chaotic. 

Councillor McArthur: “Do I support tennis courts, yes. But do I want to take away from the kids to do it? No.”

Councillor Pouget

“Let’s be perfectly honest here, the reason that the pickleball people were pushed up was by a show of hands. Oh, you’re not on the agenda but you want to speak… by a show of hands who wants pickleball….to hell with all the others”

It was very dramatic and very inappropriate language. Anyway, I’m tired of it all. This council is impossible because some members make everything personal. 

The mayor passed the gavel again

Pass the Gavel – 13

He spoke about how Councillor Courtney’s motion is just to indicate to admin that Centennial is a priority. 

Not really sir, the motion is to take the pump track money and use it for tennis courts. 

A whole bunch of talking and talking and the mayor asked if Councillor Courtney would take out the part of taking the money from the pump track. He said he would do that to allow staff to find the money. 

Motion to allocate $500,000 in the 2025 budget for hard surface courts (something like that at least)

 It was carried unanimously

Motion to approve Parks capital budget, council approved

Next item was River Lights program, council approved – Councillor Pouget did not raise her hand. 

Motion to approve Capital budget in principle, council agreed with Councillor Pouget opposed. 

And that’s it, the budget was done and it was painful. 

I’m not going to proofread this and I know, if you’re still with me, you saw the deterioration of my blogging. In my opinion, this council is often very dysfunctional and chaotic. 

Budget meeting #1 Monday January 15th 2024

Budget deliberations began at 5:00 on Monday January 15th at a special meeting and continued on into Tuesday. I decided to watch the meeting from home on Monday night….for several reasons….I saw on the revised agenda that there were several delegations, which can sometimes make it hard to find a seat…..I take notes during the meeting in order to be able to blog about it later and well, I have to have a seat in the gallery to be able to hear properly. Also, I find it easier during budget deliberations to have a copy of the budget on my computer screen to be able to follow along since members of council will often refer to page numbers and it can be difficult to see where they’re at in person. 

Monday night’s meeting was a rough ride. The gavel bounced around like a ping pong ball. There were recorded votes and disagreements. Often, not very respectful disagreements, sadly. There were several recorded votes and many 4-3 votes. Our divided council was exposed over and over again. The “consensus” dream was not to be. Not even a little bit.  

Here are the links to the revised and full agendas : 

https://pub-amherstburg.escribemeetings.com/Meeting.aspx?Id=0c7164ab-df40-4265-ab3c-9dedb58f8742&Agenda=Merged&lang=English  (The recording is also included here, so I encourage you to go back and watch live to see the fiasco….)

If you prefer the PDF format, here it is : 

https://calendar.amherstburg.ca/council/Detail/2024-01-15-1700-Special-Council-Meeting/dc666149-22a4-4f4e-a039-b0f5015a710e

****Councillor Courtney attended the meeting via Zoom. He appeared to be at home.***

The meeting was called to order promptly at 5:00. 

DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTEREST & GENERAL NATURE THEREOF

Councillor Allaire declared a conflict of interest in case anything came up about Jack Purdy park since she lives close to that park. Councillor McArthur declared a conflict of interest regarding the Legion request for $55,000. He said he had consulted with the Integrity Commissioner since he is a member of the Legion and the Integrity Commissioner agreed that he had a conflict and could have an appearance of bias. Councillor Courtney said he had not consulted the Integrity Commissioner but that he is also a member of the Legion so he would declare a conflict as well. Councillor Pouget said she would have a conflict about the police budget. And Mayor Prue said that he is also a member of the Legion and usually doesn’t have a conflict since it is approving parades and such but that since they are requesting $55,000 he would also declare a conflict. 

PRESENTATIONS

Budget Presentation – Valerie Critchley, CAO

CAO Critchley addressed council first. She spoke of the economic pressures that the town has faced in recent years. She noted that there has been a cumulative effect to those economic pressures due to the fact that since 2018 the annual tax rate increase has been below the rate of inflation (except for 2020) and that has created a shortfall. She explained the processes taken by administration to create the budget. It seems that the process starts in June or July with comparisons and analysis of all of the departments. She felt that it is like operating 15 to 20 separate businesses that all fall under the umbrella of the municipality. CAO Critchley explained that hiring a second mechanic, for example, would save money on outsourcing and achieve efficiencies. She also noted that there are contractual obligations that must be respected, such as collective agreements. 

The initial budget that was presented had proposed a 7.13% increase, however, CAO Critchley said that with some changes that were made the rate was now 6.95%. She gave the breakdown of various amounts that were contractual obligations, mandated amounts, debt amounts and reserve amounts. 

Mayor Prue passed the gavel. (And right off the bat….let the game of hot potato begin….I did not count how many times the gavel was passed and I know that I am not the only one that finds it confusing and distracting, but I think it has just become a bad habit now…..but I digress….we were not off to a good start already LOL). Mayor Prue noted that the tax increase was related to provincial legislation and the provincial government. He noted that the municipality is legislated to put money into the Asset Management Plan. He also noted that the provincial government reduced the town’s collection of development charges. As well, the province reduced OCIF (Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund) by $320,000 this year. He noted that almost 4% of the tax increase was due to the provincial government cuts and legislation. Mayor Prue felt that this budget was a difficult one since there was so much expense but not as much revenue. He noted that other municipalities were seeing increases anywhere from 4% to 8% and that the tax increase in the GTA was hovering around 14%. 

Interestingly CAO Critchley’s report which was recommended for receipt was never received. (Probably because of the distraction of where is the gavel?, so who knows what’s going on….) So immediately after the Mayor took the gavel back, the meeting just jumped to the next presentation. 

Audit and Finance Advisory Committee – Presentation by John Purdie

Mr Purdie gave a brief presentation on behalf of the Audit and Finance Committee. He explained the Audit and Finance Advisory Committee had met to discuss and analyze the budget. He noted some time constraints. He explained that the Committee reviewed the issues papers and the recommendations. He felt that the Committee endorsed the Cybersecurity consultation and even mentioned that council should explore investing more than 1.6% into the Asset Management Plan. 

Councillor Pouget spoke about how much she depends on the Audit and Finance Committee and their analysis of the budget. She felt concerned that they had one meeting of just over two hours and felt that was unfair. She then made a motion to move up Mr Purdie’s personal delegation, which was also on the revised agenda, so that he could present his personal delegation next. 

Councillor Allaire asked how long the committee had met in the past. Mr Purdie explained that there are generally 3 or 4 meetings to look at the budget and to compare it with other municipalities. He said that in the past the presentation was more than 4 powerpoint slides. Councillor Courtney asked if Mr Purdie felt more time was needed to go in depth into the budget. Mr Purdie felt that the presentation did not provide their expertise and that the presentation was more in depth in the past. CAO Crithley then spoke. She noted that she has been working in municipalities for 21 years and that a budget has never been drafted based on other municipalities’ budgets since there are far too many variables. She mentioned that administration looks at best practices, professional associations and benchmarks. CAO Critchley also noted that the longer a municipality waits to pass a budget that it can be detrimental to tendering projects and pricing. 

Deputy Mayor Gibb said that he had been at the Audit and Finance Advisory Committee meeting since he is a member of that committee. He felt that there had been plenty of time for the committee to analyze the budget and that the budget had been out for two weeks prior to their meeting. At that point, the meeting cut out…..I tried to get back on line and couldn’t. I texted a few friends that were watching online and they had the same problem. I was able to reconnect to the meeting a few minutes later and Councillor Pouget was speaking at that point. 

Delegation – John Purdie – Budget

Mr Purdie then presented his personal delegation to council. He spoke of some of the obstacles regarding the process. He felt that the town should go back and delay the budget process. He felt that there were risk factors with underfunded capital projects. He felt that the biggest impact was a lack of time to analyze the budget. He felt that the committee had not discussed the proposed tax increase and were restricted just to discussing the issue papers. 

Councillor Courtney said he was confused. He felt that Mr Purdie’s delegation was all related to the Audit and Finance Advisory Committee meeting. He asked if the things he spoke of were motions or discussions. Mr Purdie said that they were part of the discussion. Councillor Courtney wondered why the discussions were not included in the formal presentation from the committee. The Clerk explained that when a presentation is made, it is on behalf of the committee and is about the will of the majority of the committee, not individuals thoughts. Councillor Courtney was still confused. Councillor Allaire wondered if this was what was done in the past. The Clerk explained that presentations are true in every setting and based only on motions that are the will of the body. CAO Critchley even explained that council minutes are not verbatim minutes, they are just the motions that are moved, not the discussion. (Can you imagine writing up all of the discussion done during the meetings? Oh wait…..I know somebody that does that…..most of the discussion and it takes hours and hours and creates pages and pages…..who would want to do something like that? hmmmm…. LOL! )

There was some debate about how the presentation was to be made. Councillor Crain read the motion that had been made. He also said something that I put a big star next to…There is no correlation of discussion to consensus….So that would mean that while things are discussed during a meeting, it doesn’t mean that that was the consensus of the committee, i.e. a motion that carries. 

The debate raged on about what the committee should or should not do, what they did or did not do. Deputy Mayor Gibb noted that the committee was originally created in 2016 but that our town was in a very different financial position at that time. He felt that the town has turned a corner now and that perhaps the committee has not evolved with the municipality. Deputy Mayor Gibb felt that things have been corrected and that the town should be looking forward not backward. He felt that the tax rate should not be up to the committee since the seven members of council were elected to do that, to analyze the budget and decide on direction. He felt that council needs to reflect on their objectives and that we are not the same municipality that we were in 2016 when the committee was initially formed. (And for the record, this same committee was disbanded not long after it was created and then reinstated with the 2018 term of council….I remember both of those fiascos….)

Councillor Pouget then profusely thanked Mr Purdie. She felt that only two people on the committee had knowledge and experience since the rest were new. She spoke of the committee requesting more meetings but she felt administration was saying no to that. She mentioned that she had a motion. (I always find it interesting how volunteer committees are thanked and glorified but staff recommendations are set aside and viewed as “wrong”….it’s weird…) 

The Clerk explained that in the information report, they were concerned with the timing of the meetings that were specified in the motion. The committee was asking for quarterly meetings. The Clerk said that administration was not suggesting less meetings, that at least 4 meetings per year is a good practice but that the timing needed to be flexible and less rigid. 

Then things got very hectic and council ran deep down the rabbit hole. Councillor Pouget made a motion to direct administration to provide the two presentations (Audit and Finance Committee’s and Mr Purdie’s) at the next meeting in order to enhance their terms of reference for the 2025 budget. Councillor Allaire seconded it. 

Councillor McArthur questioned the intent of the motion. He didn’t seem to feel it was necessary to see the presentations all over again. Councillor Crain said that he would not support the motion. He felt that it was important not to go backward. He noted that there was no consensus on the committee to review the terms of reference. Councillor Allaire said she would support it. She felt that council could have given “personal” direction to the committee. 

Councillor Courtney felt that there was a lot of controversy about this committee. (Don’t forget folks that it was disbanded at one time by the 2014-2018 term of council. And it was disbanded by a council vote, not the former CAO…..) Councillor Courtney spoke at great length and it went in several different directions, but generally, he seemed to feel that the committee was extremely important. He noted that nobody on council is a CPA but two committee members are. (He failed to note that there are CPA’s on town staff, but the town staff generally matter less than volunteer committees for some members of council…..or so it seems anyway….) 

Deputy Mayor Gibb felt that the committee should be looking at year end financials going forward. He felt that we are always looking back and he did not see any value to rehashing the 2024 budget. 

Councillor McArthur spoke and then things got heated. He felt that council had already seen the presentation and suggested an amendment to the motion to change the process for the 2025 budget but that seeing the presentations again wasn’t necessary. Councillor Pouget didn’t seem to like the amendment and asked for a recorded vote. 

Mayor Prue noted that the previous term he had been the chair of the Audit and Finance Committee and felt that it was a valuable committee. He noted the motion on the floor and did agree that he didn’t see the rationale for seeing the presentations a second time. He felt perhaps new terms of reference may help. 

Councillor Pouget called the vote. But Mayor Prue allowed Councillor Courtney to speak. (again – this happened a lot all night long…..members of council spoke multiple times on the same item….I think the rules of order are that each member is to only speak once….probably explains why Amherstburg’s meetings are quite long and generally inefficient??) Anyway, Councillor Courtney felt that he was okay with the amendment to just changing the terms of reference without seeing both presentations again. He wondered if Councillor Pouget would modify the motion, as had been suggested by Councillor McArthur. 

Councillor Crain called a point of order and noted that a vote had been requested. So it went to a vote….to have the two presentations presented again at another meeting and change the terms of reference of the Audit and Finance Committee….

Support : Councillors Pouget and Allaire

Opposed : everybody else

So the motion failed. 

Mayor Prue asked if there was another motion. 

Deputy Mayor Gibb made a motion just to receive the two presentations, and move on. 

Councillor Pouget complained that she had made her motion in good faith and that council needed to deal with Mr Purdie’s recommendations. Her motion was to approve all of his recommendations. Mayor Prue noted that there was a motion on the floor. Councillor Pouget said that if the presentations were just received that another motion could note be made. Councillor Allaire started to speak of being in favour of receipt and Councillor Pouget started saying something about if you vote that way…..almost like she was trying to tell Councillor Allaire how to vote???? (the microphones caught it so if you want to rewatch the video, it was pretty interesting….) Deputy Mayor Gibb seemed frustrated and pointed out that council had a gigantic agenda in front of them, with people waiting to delegate and that he just wanted to get this portion of the meeting done. He said that the Committee can be discussed at another time. It went to a recorded vote to just receive the two presentations : 

Opposed : Councillor Pouget

In favour : Everybody else. 

And just when I thought it was over and we were finally moving on…..No, we were not. Councillor Pouget called a point of privilege. She told Mayor Prue that she thought he was wrong and that council didn’t understand her motion. Mayor Prue told her to state her challenge as per the rules of order and that she would have to challenge the chair. 

Councillor Pouget felt that she had said she would change her motion if it were defeated but that the Mayor took the Deputy Mayor’s motion before hers. 

Mayor Prue said that it was difficult to sit in the Mayor’s chair. He noted that members of council were prepared to support her motion if she would have amended it but she wouldn’t and it failed. He noted that the Deputy Mayor’s motion used the word “just” and that Councillor Pouget’s motion can be made at another meeting under new business. 

He then put it to a vote if council would sustain the chair in his decision. They voted. The chair was sustained with the only member of council voting not to sustain the chair. Guess who? 

But, it STILL wasn’t over…..Councillor Pouget said that she had given a copy of her motion to the Mayor prior to the meeting and that he had said he would support it. Mayor Prue said that there was debate, he listened, changes were suggested, Councillor Pouget wouldn’t make the changes and that he had a duty to find consensus. (This whole “consensus” thing….it’s more than just a dream, it’s a unicorn now. But I digress….)

At the rate this meeting was going, I was starting to think the budget wouldn’t be finalized until April. 

Delegation by Linda DiPasquale on behalf of Amherstburg Pickleball Association (APA) 

Ms DiPasquale delegated next to council on behalf of the Amherstburg Pickleball Association (APA). She began by explaining that their organization has a full board of directors and has already organized multiple fundraisers. She noted that pickleball is a healthy activity that also involves the youth. She felt that pickleball brings people together, creating a social environment and interactions. Ms DiPasquale mentioned that the APA has secured sponsorships and has already raised over $15,000. She noted that as part of their request for pickleball courts, they were also willing to support them financially. She explained that they need courts with proper lines in order to attract players and have tournaments. She said that Amherstburg is one of the few communities that does not have pickleball courts. She hoped that council would see the benefits of having 8 full pickleball courts at the Libro. (Side note, the plan currently was for one multi-use pad and a second pad with 4 pickleball courts.). When Ms DiPasquale finished presenting, I could hear the applause even though I was watching from home. 

There was a motion to receive the delegation and that carried. There was more cheering and clapping from the gallery. Councillor Pouget asked a question. She wanted to confirm that council had received the delegation but had not approved any money for pickleball courts. The Mayor confirmed that was the case. (That struck me odd….I heard the motion to receive at home…..)

Delegation – Frank Cerasa – Budget

Mr Cerasa delegated to council next and asked them not to raise taxes. He felt that the spending can not surpass the revenues and that council must manage the money responsibly. He felt that we need a balanced budget and that using other municipalities for comparables was not good. He mentioned that everyone on council had campaigned on not raising taxes. He addressed the mayor specifically about that. 

Mayor Prue said that Amherstburg had the lowest tax increase last year. Councillor McArthur said that he did not campaign on not raising taxes. He felt that would be reckless to say such a thing. Councillor Courtney also said that he did not say that while campaigning and felt he was doing his due diligence. Councillor Courtney noted that OCIF funding had dried up and development fees were gone. He felt that we have to eat that loss of funding, as well as fund our water treatment plant. Mr Cerasa started speaking at the same time as Councillor Courtney and Mayor Prue had to intervene. There was a motion to receive the delegation and it carried. 

Delegation – Jon Parks – Budget

This delegation was on the revised agenda but did not happen. I don’t know why. 

Delegation – Lee Seguin – Budget

This delegation did not happen either. 

Delegation – Tim McAllister – Budget

Mr McAllister delegated to council on behalf of the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission. He explained that the Mission was 100% volunteers and that they believe in people helping people. They served over 17,000 meals last year, as well as giving away food baskets and helping with baby food and clothing. He noted that they are planning fundraisers. He said that on behalf of the board, he would appreciate any help that can be given to the Mission. (The Mission had submitted a grant request, which would be debated later in the meeting.) The delegation was received. 

Changes to 2024 Calendar of Council Meetings

Council had recently adopted the schedule for their 2024 meetings. There is a new calendar being proposed with a few small changes for the 2025 budget deliberation dates as well as a change for one meeting in January since it appears that several members of council will be attending the ROMA conference. 

The motion was made and it carried. The calendar was amended. 

Web Accessibility Compliance and Web Design Refresh

The town is currently working on making their websites accessible to ensure compliance with legislation. Here is the recommendation from administration : 

It is recommended that: 

1. As the Accessible Website Provider for the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), the services of GHD Digital BE RETAINED to migrate the Town’s web content from the iCreate platform to the GovStack platform and perform a website redesign and refresh not to exceed $70,000, excluding HST; 

2. A transfer from the AODA Compliance Reserve Fund not to exceed $70,000 (excluding HST) BE AUTHORIZED; and, 

3. The CAO and Clerk BE AUTHORIZED to sign and execute an agreement with GHD Digital for a website migration, redesign and refresh in accordance with the report of January 15, 2024. 

Councillor McArthur asked a question and then the motion was made and it carried. 

Proposed 2024 Operating Budget

Now it was time for the nitty gritty, the real show that we had all been waiting for. I should have noted what time it was by the time we got this portion, but I’m guessing it was likely around 7:00…..Two hours had been spent on the Audit and Finance Committee fiasco and the delegations…..so I hunkered down with a copy of the budget in front of me. 

If you didn’t see it, here it is https://pub-amherstburg.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=13549

The Treasurer spoke and explained a few items that had been tweaked that had adjusted the budget and brought the proposed rate from 7.13% down to 6.95%. There was a motion made to accept the three changes that were made and it carried. 

Mayor Prue proposed to start the budget deliberations with the issue papers and then go back to the budget line items once the issue papers were debated. 

Just to explain a bit….the issue papers consisted of things that had been requested by each department with an explanation and a breakdown of costs (increase or decrease). From there, the senior management team analyzed the requests and either recommended that they be accepted or denied. So even items that were “no’s” had an issue paper and council would have to approve (or not) the item that was a “no”. I hope that makes sense. I believe there were over 80 issue papers and council would not finish them before 10PM and would go on to continue debating them on Tuesday. 

I won’t go through each issue paper. I’ll just try to summarize the ones that had some, or a lot of debate. 

Issue paper CLK-001 Engagement of Traffic Engineer for Crossing Guard Study

Councillor Allaire asked if the study could be done in May or early June, during better weather. The Clerk said that the consultant would certainly take that into consideration. Councillor Allaire hoped to get the report back before September. The Clerk spoke of timelines for the RFP. The Mayor passed the gavel and asked if the $15,000 was being taken from reserves rather than the general taxation. The Treasurer explained that generally anything that was a one time expense is paid from reserves. Senior Management had recommended to approve this issue paper. And council did approve it. 

Issue paper HR-001 Staff Request

This was a request for a permanent part-time position in the HR department. In the issue paper there was an explanation from 2016 to now about how the position had been filled with a temporary contract etc etc, kind of patchwork for almost eight years. The Treasurer told council that there had recently been a temporary person in place but it was just not enough. To help defray the cost, some money was being moved from a student position. Deputy Mayor Gibb felt that after reading through the request that it was time to invest in staff and human resources. He also noted that last year there had been a similar request. Deputy Mayor Gibb felt that it was more expensive to lose people and their institutional knowledge than to fund a permanent position. 

Councillor Courtney announced that he was opposed to this. (Most of his statements the rest of the evening would start the same way….) He felt that a student position was a no brainer, as had been done in 2021. He didn’t like to be locked into the expenses of the pension impact and benefit impacts. He felt that once the position is on the organizational chart, it never goes away. (I couldn’t help but be somewhat appalled at this moment….Councillor Courtney enjoys a permanent position that has benefits and a pension, yet seems to begrudge these positions within the Town of Amherstburg? Just keep on hiring students or contracts so that the town doesn’t have to pay for pension and benefits? Seems a bit hypocritical for someone with the comfort of a permanent job that pays pension and benefits to begrudge others being afforded the same opportunity?) 

Councillor Allaire wondered if the position weren’t approved by council if there would still be a student position. CAO Critchley explained that they have temporary funding for a student but that the HR department needs someone that comes in and knows the job since they don’t have the time to train a student. 

Councillor Crain referred to this portion of the issue paper : “Human Resource best practices with respect to adequate staffing delineate that the average employee to HR professional staff ratio is 2.57 per every 100 employees taking into account all sized organizations from small to large. For 2023, the HR staffing if reflective of the average would have been 2.46 FTE to support all Human Resource and Health and Safety functions and services which is not inclusive of the ongoing support activities provided to volunteer fire and Council which would increase this number to 3.18 FTE. The need for additional, confirmed, permanent staffing can not be understated for its critical connection to the Town’s success.”  He said that he could see the value of the position. 

Councillor Pouget asked if the position were turned down if a student could be hired. The CAO said that the preference was to have knowledgeable staff and not a student. Councillor Pouget then stated that she was opposed and that she concurred with Councillor Courtney. (Councillor Pouget would also start most of her statements all evening about her opposition to pretty much everything….)

Councillor McArthur spoke. He noted that he had seconded the motion and supported the recommendation. He felt that administration had made their case about precarious work and that permanent staffing is needed. He spoke about losing institutional knowledge that is lost when staff leave and that it was time to invest in staff to boost employee engagement. 

It went to a vote (it wasn’t recorded but I watched)…..it passed 4-2….in favour Councillors Allaire, Crain, McArthur and Deputy Mayor Gibb. Opposed : Councillors Courtney and Pouget. So the motion carried. 

There were many issue papers that carried with no debate. Many of them were “no’s” from the Senior Management Team and some were “yes’s”. 

Council took a 10 minute break at 7:31. 

Issue Paper IT – 002 IT – Full Time Staff Position – IT Security & Systems Administrator

The Senior Management Team had put a “maybe” for this position. So it wasn’t a “yes” or a “no”…..so council really had to think this one though…..It seems that the SMT had said yes to a $75,000 one time request to hire a firm to analyze our IT systems, rather than hire a full time person right away. CAO Critchley felt that it would be better to have a full review of the IT systems, that that would be a better approach to pay some consultant fees and then build a case from there if a new full time position would be required. 

Councillor Crain wondered if it were feasible for current IT staff to assess the systems. Ms Osborne, the Deputy CAO, said that cyber security is very specialized. She felt it would be better to hire an outside firm to assess any gaps. Councillor Crain asked if the $75,000 for the outside firm analysis would be coming from reserves and it was confirmed that yes it was. 

Councillor Courtney then moved the recommendation to have an analysis done and to  provide the necessary budget for the acquisition, implementation, and maintenance of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) software. He noted that cyber attacks are real but that he had never pictured a “full time guy” sitting looking at our computers…..

There was some more back and forth. Deputy Mayor Gibb felt that anybody in the room would realize how dangerous cyber attacks are and that we need to protect residents’ private information. 

Finally, the motion carried. 

Issue Paper NON-003 Grants to Organizations

Every year, local charities can request some grant money from the town for their organization. There is $43,300 allotted in the base budget for these grants. The requests far exceeded that amount. Just a point to remember, this grant money is our tax money that council grants to organizations each year. 

There was a motion to separate the Legion’s request since 3 members of council were in conflict. So that would be discussed separately later. 

Here is the chart with the requests : 

Organization	2023 Request	2024 Request
Amherstburg Community Services (ACS)	$15,000	$15,000
Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission	$20,000	$20,000
Amherstburg Freedom Museum	$8,500	$8,500
Amherstburg Historic Sites Association	$15,000	$15,000
Christ Church Anglican	$750	$750
Fort Malden Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion – Branch 157	N/A	$55,000
Fort Malden Golden Age Centre	$0*	$0*
MADD Canada	N/A	$3,000
Victorian Order of Nurses (VON) – Ontario Student Nutrition Program (OSNP)	N/A	$12,000
Affordable Housing Grant (Contractual)	$8,453	$8,453

And here is the explanation about the $0 rental for the Fort Malden Golden Age Centre, from the report : “* This request asks for the waiver of associated capital surcharges for the use of town facilities. This is not a $0 request and should not be considered as such, as every rental which does not contribute back to the expected revenue generated contributes to associated deficits in those areas and should be appropriately budgeted and planned for. The total impact has not been calculated but for 2023 represented $3.45/hr for all such hours used. While no charge has yet been established for use of 179 Victoria Street, when previously operated, prior to its long term tenant, a capital surcharge did exist for the space and one is expected to be requested when this facility opens to the public officially. As Municipalities are required to budget to fund their operations, due consideration should be given to identifying an amount of lost revenue and budget to fund for this loss.”

Councillor Crain asked which affordable housing facility received the $8,453 grant. The Clerk said that it was 182 Pickering and that it was a 20 year commitment. 

Councillor Crain inquired about the Golden Age Club requesting $0 rent. He wondered if any other groups in Amherstburg were also not subject to pay user fees. Administration said that no, no other groups receive free rent.  Councillor Crain asked if the town had provided the renovations to the building at no cost to them. Ms Baillargeon, Director of Parks and Recreation, said that the town moved them into the building at no cost to them. Councillor Pouget felt that providing free space was something council had done every year since the Golden Age Club had raised money for drapes and other things. She felt that it was basically a wash. 

Councillor Allaire asked about the costs to renovate the building. Ms Baillargeon said that about $93,000 had been spent on renovations and other costs but a full report was coming forward. Councillor Allaire asked what fees they were asking to be waived. It seems that they are asking for rent/user fees to be waived. Ms Baillargeon said that the seniors occupy the Libro during the day at a cost of about $34,000 per year (lost revenue). Councillor Courtney felt that 179 Victoria Street would eventually generate funds. He then asked which facility was Amherstburg Historical Sites requesting $15,000. The Clerk said that it was the Park House Museum. 

Councillor Crain asked if the fees were waived for the Golden Age Club at the Libro Centre. Ms Baillargeon said that we do not collect fees from them. Councillor Crain asked if the Golden Age Club was looking to occupy the whole building. Ms Baillargeon said that we are currently renovating the other half and that a report was coming to council about it. 

Deputy Mayor Gibb said that he was going to push a little harder. He asked if administration had an estimate or round number for rental fees for the Golden Age Club. Ms Baillargeon said that she had the hours and would work on a number. 

There was some discussion about the MADD Canada request for grant money and the VON’s as well. There was also discussion about some one time funding that was given last year by council for certain organizations. 

Mayor Prue noticed that the requests are getting very large and that they have always centered on local agencies. He believed that we are the only municipality in Essex that gives grants and cautioned council to be careful. (Don’t forget folks….these grants are our tax money….) 

Ms Baillargeon came back with the approximate rental fees for the Golden Age Club that was being requested. It seems they use the facility daily from 12-4, or about 23 hours per week. If the rental price were to be $50.91 per hour for the Golden Age Club, that would be about $1170 per week, or about $60,800 per year. CAO Critchley noted that the Club uses it during the day time hours and that it would be unlikely to be rented all the time. 

So first, council discussed the Amherstburg Community Service ask of $15,000. 

Deputy Mayor Gibb said that he had put a lot of thought into the grant requests but wanted to hear other councillors’ thoughts. He wanted to sprinkle the amount around between several charities. He noted that only $34,947 was available to give and that he was not willing to exceed that number unless it came from the general tax levy and not reserves. He noted that while they are all fantastic charities and do great work, these donations are made on behalf of the taxpayers. He said he would consider increasing the amount of grant money if necessary from the general levy, if it were the will of council, but not from reserve money. 

Councillor Pouget felt okay with the $15,000 grant to ACS since they do so much for the community. 

Councillor Allaire mentioned she had wanted to minimize the amount to ACS in order to sprinkle the money around more and that she would listen. 

Councillor Crain said that he agreed with the Deputy Mayor and that each charity provides value. He asked if administration had the 2022 requests. The Clerk said that last year, ACS had requested $8,000. 

Councillor Courtney agreed with the idea of sprinkling the money around and wondered who was most likely to use the money. He agreed with the Deputy Mayor that council should retract a bit of money. 

Deputy Mayor Gibb offered up a motion to divide up the $34,957. 

His motion included $750 to Christ Church and then $8500 to each ACS, the Mission, the Freedom Museum and the Historic Sites. 

Councillor Pouget said that the reason she had wanted $15,000 for ACS was because their request for services had increased dramatically. 

Councillor Allaire agreed with the Deputy Mayor and wanted to spread the love, as in spread the money around. 

The motion failed…..I didn’t catch the vote….and frankly, I’m not going back in the video to check who voted how LOL This is one of the toughest blogs I’ve written in a long time and sitting here reliving that 5 hour chaotic meeting from Monday night is taking its toll! LOL 

Councillor Crain then made a motion to give $8500 to ACS. Councillor McArthur felt that it was tough to stick to the limit of $43,500 and felt that $8500 was too low for ACS and the Mission. 

Councillor Courtney talked about increasing the grant amount to $50,000 since $8500 was not enough for ACS in his opinion. 

Deputy Mayor Gibb said that if council wanted to increase the base budget, he could be talked into it but would not support the money coming from reserves. Mayor Prue suggested increasing the grants to $60,000 which would be 1/10 of the mill rate. 

Councillor Allaire made a motion to increase the grants to $50,000. The list of grants was put up on the screen. Administration did some quick math and noted that if they gave each of the 5 their requests, it came to just under $60,000. (Don’t forget the contractual obligation for the affordable housing grant on Pickering St.) 

Deputy Mayor Gibb reminded council that they need to think about next year and how the amounts requested keep going up and up. He noted that last year was supposed to be a one time increase for certain organizations but here they were looking at the same amount a year later. 

Councillor Allaire then made a motion to increase the base budget to $60,000 which would include the $8,453 grant for the affordable housing grant that was a contractual agreement. Councillor McArthur seconded it. 

Councillor Crain asked what the tax increase to the levy would be by adding this extra money into the budget. 

The Treasurer said it brought the rate up by 0.05% so the current rate would now be 7% for a tax increase if this passed. 

Councillor Courtney agreed with the Deputy Mayor and felt that more and more requests and for higher amounts will continue to come. He then expressed that he felt that museums aren’t “needs”, that they’re “jewelry”……

Deputy Mayor Gibb reminded council that the grant request from ACS was not for food but rather for maintenance on their vehicles. (Luckily somebody read through all the issue papers and the budget I guess….) Deputy Mayor Gibb then noted that the town’s mission statement that they just approved from their strategic plan is “Preserving our past, forging our future”. He said that he would not support giving nothing to the museums. He also seemed to feel strongly that next year when $60,000 isn’t enough that council will have to remember that it is based on a decision made today. 

The motion to increase the grant funding to $60,000 passed unanimously. Now it was time to divvy it all up…..and oh boy…..it got hard to follow and the discussion went in circles…..hang tight…

Councillor Allaire made a motion to give $15,000 to ACS. Councillor Pouget asked if she hadn’t just made that motion….and she had LOL Anyway, it carried unanimously. $15,000 grant to ACS. 

Then a motion was made to give $20,000 to the Mission. And it carried as well. That left $16,547 or so due to the contractual obligation for affordable housing grants. 

Councillor Allaire suggested giving the Freedom museum $7898.50 and then it became a motion. 

Mayor Prue felt that that wasn’t fair since that museum is popular and successful. He felt that they get a lot of tourist money and hold many successful fundraisers. He felt that they could take a hit better than the Park House museum. He felt that the Park House museum is a brilliant museum that runs on a shoestring budget. He felt that reducing their request would close the museum. 

Councillor Crain felt that it was unfair to shuffle money on the fly. He felt that council lowering their grant by $7000 and being told that they would close was unfair. He felt that council was already going above and beyond. 

The CAO then offered a solution…..$750 to the Anglican Church, and then $5687 to the Freedom Museum and $10,110 to the Park House Historic Site and that way they would each get 64% of what they had asked for. 

Councillor Pouget said she would make that motion, but there was already one on the floor…..so the Deputy Mayor withdrew his motion, the new one was made and it carried. 

The grant funding was increased overall and then council divided it up as fairly as they felt they could. Just remember everybody, that grant money is our tax money…..I know there are some that don’t feel that our tax money should be used as grants at all…..

Then the discussion turned to the Golden Age Club…..the amount requested showed $0 since an hourly rate for rent for 179 Victoria Street building had still not been established. 

Mayor Prue felt that the Golden Age Club shouldn’t be left showing $0. 

Ms Baillargeon, Director of Parks and Rec, had figured out some numbers but that was based off of rates at the Libro, where the group currently uses space. It worked out to a cost of $60,880 per year with an hourly non-prime rate of $50.91. 

Deputy Mayor Gibb hoped for a discussion about this item. He said that he could not support a community group getting free rent. He noted that every other community group pays something for rent….the House pays rent, the Boxing Club pays rent, the Soccer Club pays rent etc etc. He said that he was open to options but that a net zero rental rate was unfair to all of the other community groups. 

CAO Crithcley felt that council could wait for a full report with exact dollar amounts and more information. She suggested that council defer that decision for now and make one down the road when all of the information would be available. 

A motion was made to defer the decision about the Golden Age Club rent until the next regular meeting on January 29th when a full report would be available. 

Motions were made to give nothing to MADD Canada and the VON and they both carried. 

Then it was time to discuss the Legion’s request for $55,000 for repairs to their building. 

Mayor Prue, Councillor McArthur and Councillor Courtney all had conflicts on this item so Deputy Mayor Gibb chaired this portion of the meeting. 

Councillor Allaire made a motion to not fund the grant request for the Legion. Councillor Crain seconded it. 

Councillor Pouget felt that we needed to support them since she felt that they could be on the verge of closing. She felt it would be a real slap in the face for council to say no.  

Councillor Allaire felt that grants should be supporting the community. She felt that if they were starting a program it would be different but that the funds were for their building. 

Deputy Mayor Gibb noted that the Legion has not paid property tax for 25 years and asked if any other groups were exempt from paying property tax. The Treasurer said that affordable housing can be and that all Legions are exempt from paying property tax as per provincial legislation. 

It went to a vote and carried 3-1. Councillor Pouget voted in opposition. 

(Just a personal side note…..since the municipality already helps the Legion financially by not collecting property taxes, I wonder if the Legion can appeal to Veterans Affairs for help with their building costs? Just a thought on my part.) 

Many of the issue papers that followed went through with no discussion or some discussion. Since this blog is getting to be reaalllly long, much like the meeting, I’m going to skip over some items. Again, if you want to see it all, watch the video…..between Monday night and all day Tuesday, the video lasts more than 11 hours of budget deliberations…..so kudos to you (seriously) if you can manage to watch it all!!! 

Issue Paper LIB-001 PFRC Executive Assistant

This position was approved by council last year as a contract position and council had directed administration to bring it back to the 2024 budget for deliberations. So here it was, back for deliberations…..this is an executive assistant position for the Director of Parks, Facilities, Recreation and Culture. 

Councillor Courtney asked why this item has a bigger budget impact. CAO Critchley said that last year council had funded it from reserves as it was a one year contract position. Councillor Courtney wondered if the town should have comparisons with other municipalities regarding this position. 

CAO Critchley explained that these positions were recommended by Strategy Corp (during the Service Delivery Review) in 2021 which was before her time with Amherstburg. The Service Delivery Review identified gaps and ways to fill those gaps over a period of years. She said that she hasn’t gone through every organizational chart for other municipalities and is not sure of the job descriptions either for the positions. She noted that generally, Amherstburg is low-end to mid-range when it comes to looking at FTEs. 

Councillor Courtney then went off that the Strategy Corporation study was never adopted, that it was just information and hoped it wasn’t being used as a guiding document. (Oh I remember that fiasco……it’s difficult for some on council when studies are done and the results provided aren’t what they had wanted or hoped for…..kind of like the Open Air Survey results LOL!) 

Ms Baillargeon noted that the person currently in this position had written applications for 3 grants and had sizable grant money come into the municipality. 

Councillor Allaire noted that she was against supporting the position last year but now that she has seen the grant money that has come in for recreational programming due to this position, she made the motion to make it a permanent position. Councillor McArthur seconded it. 

Deputy Mayor Gibb was in agreement. He felt that the Director of Parks, Facilities, Recreation and Culture is one of the most overworked Directors, that she often has to stop everything to answer emails and it hurts productivity. He noted that the grant money alone that has come in due to this position is great. 

Councillor Pouget announced that she would be voting against the motion. (Anybody else see a theme here?)

Councillor Crain asked if each Director had an executive assistant. CAO Critchley said that not each one does, that many are shared and she explained each one. 

It went to a recorded vote to hire a permanent executive assistant in the Parks Department….

In Favour : Councillor Allaire, Deputy Mayor Gibb, Councillor Crain, Councillor McArthur and Mayor Prue

Opposed : Councillor Courtney and Councillor Pouget. 

At 9:59 PM there was a motion to recess that meeting until 9AM Tuesday and it carried. 

After a 5 hour meeting about the budget and endless merry-go-round discussion, the tax rate had actually gone up! That was a real curveball that I was not expecting! LOL (Don’t worry though, the meeting continued on Tuesday and the rate went from 7% to 6.44%) 

Writing up the blog for the 5 hour Monday night meeting was a long and fairly painful task LOL. I did go back and watch portions of the video of Tuesday’s meeting just out of sheer curiosity and I am very fortunate to have a guest blogger that is working on a blog about Tuesday’s meeting. I will post that blog separately once it is ready. 

If you managed to make it to the end of this blog…..you are a warrior. Kudos to you! I barely made it to the end of this one…..

In preparation for Monday January 15th Special town council meetings (budget and beyond)

A special meeting is scheduled to begin on Monday January 15th. There are a few items on the agenda, but the main item is the budget. The meeting is scheduled to start on Monday January 15th at 5PM and last until 10PM. Then, it will  continue at 9AM on Tuesday January 16th until 4PM. And possibly, if needed, the meeting will continue on Wednesday January 17th at 9AM. Only in Amherstburg, do we historically have days and days worth of budget deliberations but I digress. One could say that council is being so responsible, going through the budget line by line and “analyzing” every dime….one could also say that it is very inefficient use of time and resources and that it’s just a big show to make it seem that council is actually doing something….Either way, I’m sure we’re in a looooong drawn out show. 

It’s doubtful that I will be able to blog about two or three days of meetings….I may have to try to convince somebody to be a guest blogger, the pay and the glory should be enticing? LOL Or maybe I’ll just focus in on fewer items….we shall see how I feel next week! 

Anyway, here are the links to the agenda : 

https://pub-amherstburg.escribemeetings.com/Meeting.aspx?Id=0c7164ab-df40-4265-ab3c-9dedb58f8742&Agenda=Agenda&lang=English

If you prefer the PDF, it’s 418 pages https://calendar.amherstburg.ca/council/Detail/2024-01-15-1700-Special-Council-Meeting/bec6636e-e1e3-44e6-82f8-b0ee0144f554

PRESENTATIONS

Budget Presentation – Valerie Critchley, CAO

This is the first item on the agenda but there is no report attached. I’ll take a listen and see what CAO Critchley has to say. 

DELEGATIONS

As of the writing of this blog, there are no delegations listed. However, since the agenda came out last week (10 days in advance), there is still time for people to submit to delegate. I am anticipating that there will be a supplementary agenda posted this weekend with some delegations. In the past, generally any organizations that were seeking grant funding from the town, would delegate to plead their case. The town gives out around $34,000 annually in the budget to local organizations / charities. 

Changes to 2024 Calendar of Council Meetings

Council had recently adopted the schedule for their 2024 meetings. There is a new calendar being proposed with a few small changes for the 2025 budget deliberation dates as well as a change for one meeting in January since it appears that several members of council will be attending the ROMA conference. 

Web Accessibility Compliance and Web Design Refresh

The town is currently working on making their websites accessible to ensure compliance with legislation. Here is the recommendation from administration : 

It is recommended that: 

1. As the Accessible Website Provider for the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), the services of GHD Digital BE RETAINED to migrate the Town’s web content from the iCreate platform to the GovStack platform and perform a website redesign and refresh not to exceed $70,000, excluding HST; 

2. A transfer from the AODA Compliance Reserve Fund not to exceed $70,000 (excluding HST) BE AUTHORIZED; and, 

3. The CAO and Clerk BE AUTHORIZED to sign and execute an agreement with GHD Digital for a website migration, redesign and refresh in accordance with the report of January 15, 2024. 

Proposed 2024 Operating Budget

Then, council will debate the 2024 operating budget. Here is the link to the complete budget document https://pub-amherstburg.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=13467

The current proposed tax increase sits at 7.13%. 

How council will decide to go about debating the budget remains to be seen….sometimes it’s done by department, sometimes it’s done by issue paper….either way, I’m sure it will be confusing for everyone, including council LOL ! I will likely watch from home, it’s easier to have a copy of the budget on the screen in front of me, since often page numbers are referred to and it can be difficult to follow along, for everyone…..It’s going to take some serious attention and diligence to chair the debate and even more for those of us that try to follow along….

Proposed 2024 Capital Budget

And here is the link for the capital budget https://pub-amherstburg.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=13468

Generally, the capital budget is not debated and picked apart line by line, dollar by dollar, like the operating budget. But who knows? Maybe this year will be different….

Amherstburg Accessibility Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of December 7, 2023

If you recall, council wanted the Accessibility Advisory Committee to discuss Open Air and any possible accessibility issues. Well, the meeting happened in December and there are two recommendations before council : 

• It is recommended that:
  1. The Amherstburg Accessibility Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of December 7, 2023 BE RECEIVED;
  2. Council DIRECT Administration to advertise accessible parking locations for Open Air Events on multiple occasions through social media, print and the Town website; and,
  3. Council DIRECT Administration to increase enforcement of accessible parking use during Open Air  Events.

As someone that attends Open Air very regularly, these are two very good recommendations. There is a lot of accessible parking available during Open Air (more than on a regular day!) and many people seem to be unaware that it exists. So I hope that it will be heavily advertised. And, well, enforcement is very important too…..nobody should be parking in accessible parking spots if they don’t have a permit! 

Audit and Finance Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of December 18, 2023 

It looks like the Audit and Finance Committee met in December and wants to meet more frequently. Here is their request : 

That the Audit and Finance Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of December 18, 2023 BE RECEIVED for information.

The Audit and Finance Advisory Committee recommends that:
1. Council CONSIDER amending the Audit and Finance Advisory Terms of Reference to change the meeting frequency to quarterly at a minimum.

Community Grants Submissions for 2024 Budget

Every year, various community groups request grant money from the town. This year there are a few returning applicants as well as some new applicants. As it stands, the amounts being requested exceed the amount that is available for grants. The amount allocated in the budget for grant donations is $43,400 yet the requests supercede $100,000.

From the report : “The total budget allocated for Community Grants in the 2024 budget is $43,400. The total amount of requests received are $129,250. From the budgeted amount ($43,400) there is a contractual agreement requiring an annual contribution for a twenty year period of $8,453 that is allocated prior to consideration of Community Grants are calculated. This means $34,947 remains to address the $129,250 requested.”

Here is a list of the request, with comparison from what was requested the year before (from the report provided to council.) 

Organization	2023 Request	2024 Request
Amherstburg Community Services (ACS)	$15,000	$15,000
Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission	$20,000	$20,000
Amherstburg Freedom Museum	$8,500	$8,500
Amherstburg Historic Sites Association	$15,000	$15,000
Christ Church Anglican	$750	$750
Fort Malden Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion – Branch 157	N/A	$55,000
Fort Malden Golden Age Centre	$0*	$0*
MADD Canada	N/A	$3,000
Victorian Order of Nurses (VON) – Ontario Student Nutrition Program (OSNP)	N/A	$12,000
Affordable Housing Grant (Contractual)	$8,453	$8,453

And from the report, here are some explanations about some of the grant funding. 

“* This request asks for the waiver of associated capital surcharges for the use of town facilities. This is not a $0 request and should not be considered as such, as every rental which does not contribute back to the expected revenue generated contributes to associated deficits in those areas and should be appropriately budgeted and planned for. The total impact has not been calculated but for 2023 represented $3.45/hr for all such hours used. While no charge has yet been established for use of 179 Victoria Street, when previously operated, prior to its long term tenant, a capital surcharge did exist for the space and one is expected to be requested when this facility opens to the public officially. As Municipalities are required to budget to fund their operations, due consideration should be given to identifying an amount of lost revenue and budget to fund for this loss. 

Should grant requests from the Fort Malden Golden Age Centre be received in future years, Council could identify or request the group to identify what level of funding support is being requested, as the financial impact is not $0. 

The Community Grants budget line traditionally receives more funding requests than funds available to support all such requests. This year is no different with total requests exceeding $129,250, significantly outpacing the funds set aside for this. Additionally, Council has entered into a commitment to provide $8,453 annually over 20 years towards an Affordable Housing project in the Town of Amherstburg, which further drains available funds in any given year. When initially identified no funding source was chosen, and so when the budget was prepared in its first year, the funding was found within the Community Grants budget line. 

This represents a decrease in the available Community Grants by $8,453 annually, and due consideration to increasing the base budget to account for this known cost should be considered should Council wish to preserve funds available for Community Grants.

In 2023 Council adopted revisions to the Community Grants policy to take effect in future years which include contemplations about such things as alignment with the adopted strategic priorities of Council. This could serve as a guide for Council in how they deliberate on such requests. Additionally, Council should consider whether the request is in relation to funding a specific program or initiative, as traditionally funding is not provided to support the operations of the group or for capital works, building expansion, replacement or renovation, with the notable exception of heritage buildings. All grant application requests have been provided to Council for their deliberations. 

While the issuance of Community Grants are perhaps the most visible form of support provided by Council to groups and organizations in the Community, there are a number of ways that Council does actively support community organizations outside of the direct contributions herein sought. For example, the creation of the 320 Richmond Community Hub was envisioned to provide a most cost effective rental arrangement for Community organizations and groups. Additionally, Town Council has also contemplated larger changes in the past which have had significant impacts, for example, in relieving municipal property tax to the Legion with By-law 1998-73, which has provided support in the relief of associated payments for the last 25 years.”

Looks like council is going to have to make some tough decisions for grant funding. 

Audit and Finance Advisory Committee Schedule

This report is in reference to the above request by the Audit and Finance Advisory Committee that they meet, at minimum, quarterly. Here is the recommendation : 

It is recommended that: 

1. The Audit and Finance Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of December 18, 2023 BE RECEIVED for information in accordance with the report of January 15, 2024; and 

2. The Audit and Finance Advisory Committee recommendation to amend the Terms of Reference BE RECEIVED and no action taken.

So that’s about it folks….some big documents to read through if you’re interested….and a few looong meetings ahead for next week! Not sure when I’ll be back with the post-meeting blog(s), but I’ll be back for sure! Have a great week Amherstburg! Are you going to watch the budget deliberations?