Well Monday night’s meeting was packed with inconsistencies, some may even say hypocrisy. The meeting lasted just over three hours…..Councillor Courtney spends hours at every budget session talking about “wants” and “needs” yet he put forth a motion for a boat ramp at Ranta Park. Is that a “want” or a “need”? Councillor Pouget voted to waive over $4,800 for fees at the Libro and then an hour later made a motion to cut the Libro Centre budget because it “loses” money every year. Somebody please help me make sense of that? I wonder how much money the new boat launch that Councillor Pouget voted for will lose every year? Councillor Allaire had declared a conflict for the events section of the meeting, yet spoke to another councilor during the meeting across the room about the motion on the floor. Councillor Courtney complained about members of council speaking to the media. What did he do after the meeting was over? He spoke to the media. Councillors Allaire, Pouget and Courtney consistently vote against Open Air. Yet two of them voted to close an extra street and a parking lot for Rib Fest! LOL What the what? I think the only person that remained true to themselves and their fiduciary responsibility was Councillor Crain. He stood alone against the others during the boat ramp vote. The amount of “chit chat” between a few members of council during the meeting was quite unprofessional and some seem to think it’s a social hour instead of a council meeting. The behavior was mind boggling. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Let’s dig down a little bit deeper…..
There was a revised agenda for the addition of two delegates.
Here is the link to the PDF version https://calendar.amherstburg.ca/council/Detail/2024-04-22-1800-Regular-Council-Meeting/b5df0ae0-8111-4a48-9edf-b15700ee399c
And the HTML version (it’s easier to find individual reports with this link and it includes the video now too ) https://pub-amherstburg.escribemeetings.com/Meeting.aspx?Id=128884cf-2d66-4ad7-b91f-eb4bd677a060&Agenda=Merged&lang=English
I decided to attend Monday night’s meeting in person. And so did Councillor Courtney! LOL The rest of council were present in person, as usual. The gallery was packed with firefighters and what appeared to be members of the AMA Sportsmen’s Club.
DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTEREST AND GENERAL NATURE THEREOF
Councillor Allaire declared a conflict of interest for all of the events listed and mentioned that she was on a board for one of them. Councillor Crain declared a conflict on item 20.1.8 since he mentioned that the broker he works for is directly affected by that drain.
RECOGNITIONS
Award Presentation: District Chief Jason Durocher – Professional Qualification of Fire Officer IV
Fire Chief Montone spoke. He explained the significant recognition that would be bestowed on District Chief Durocher. The Fire Chief felt that the achievements were significant not only for the individual but also for Amherstburg’s fire service. He noted that District Chief Durocher had recently completed 30 years of service with AFD. He gave a history of his career and his recent accomplishments and the many abilities that District Chief Durocher had shown during his career. The Fire Chief asked that the Mayor and the CAO come forward so that he could present him his certification. There was lots of applause and some photos were taken. Congratulations!!!
DELEGATIONS
Delegation Item #16.1 K. Walter Ranta Park Proposed Boat Ramp – Rodney Ferriss (Supplementary agenda)
Mr Ferris addressed council about the proposed boat ramp. He noted that he had read the report and addressed the two options. He felt that council should proceed but that there needs to be more parking available for the trailers. He spoke about the need to build a breakwall and that the town should contact Walter Aggregate to see if they would donate boulders for this portion. He also noted that the town will need various approvals such as ERCA and other government approvals. Mr Ferris also noted that it made sense for administration to recommend not moving forward with the boat ramp due to the expense. He then referred to the Strategic Plan that talked about providing access to the water. Mr Ferris suggested that council reconsider looking forward to see how a ramp could be made doable. He felt that with this in the works for two years was not enough time for all of the information and to set up the finances for the project. He asked that council take the time they need to think more and look at different ways that a boat launch could be achievable. He appreciated the work that had been done thus far but asked that council not say “no” outright at the moment. He felt it was too soon to give up now.
Councillor Allaire asked, out of curiosity, if the boat ramp were to be approved, if it would go to public consultation. She asked Mr Ferris which was his preferred boat launch, since there are several in Essex County. Mr Ferris said he had been a resident of Amherstburg for 28 years and used Ranta Marina in the past. He said he now lives west of Amherstburg and uses the Colchester boat launch now.
Councillor Courtney asked if there were any other stakeholder groups that would have an interest in a boat launch, other than the AMA Sportsmen’s Club. Mr Ferris mentioned the former Ranta Marina Boaters Association. He asked that council start small and build on the project over 5, 6 or 7 years.
Councillor McArthur thanked Mr Ferris for the way he was approaching the issue. He noted that the numbers don’t lie and that it would be an expensive project. He asked Mr Ferris if he felt that this location would be a good location for a boat launch. Mr Ferris felt that it was an awesome location with fishing nearby and easy access to Crystal Bay. Councillor McArthur noted that it is a large area and that the park is under-utilised. He wondered if the boat launch would add to the location and the possibility of a picnic area etc. Mr Ferris felt that lots could be done and that Amherstburg needs a hall and that a hall could be built for weddings.
Councillor Pouget asked about the possibility of organizing fishing tournaments since it was mentioned. It had been mentioned that 600 people could sign up for a tournament and she asked if that meant that 600 people would use the ramp. Mr Ferris mentioned that there had been discussion about river only tournaments and that the LaSalle boat launch does not have enough parking. He also mentioned that people are buying boats, even in this economy. Councillor Pouget talked about paddle boats being launched there and wondered if it would be beneficial for parking.
Councillor Crain asked if the Mr Ferris’ Association would be comfortable with the $20 launching fee. Mr Ferris felt that was the going rate and that if boaters could afford gas for their boats that they could afford $20 to launch their boats. Councillor Crain noted that if the town were to build a boat launch, the cost to launch a boat would be similar to other boat launches.
Mr Ferris said that he was there to get the town a public boat launch and that he understood why questions were being asked. He was asking the town to secure a future. He felt that the marina could be sold and condos could be built. He felt that the ramp was not about cost but about the future of the town to secure public access to the water.
The delegation was received.
Then, somebody standing near the door said that he wanted to speak. Mayor Prue explained the procedural bylaw to the person, that he would have had to sign up in advance to speak, as did Mr Ferris. The person mentioned not having a computer (since they won’t be reading this blog I guess, anybody can go in person to town hall, or make a phone call and they will provide you the paperwork to delegate, just putting that out there. It’s quite accessible to delegate to council if procedures are followed.) Well, all of a sudden, Councillor Pouget raised her hand to waive the rules of order…..Councillor Allaire seconded it. (Speaking of pillars in the Strategic Plan…..I believe staff / council relations are part of that and there was something in there about counting how many times the rules of order are waived…..???) Deputy Mayor Gibb spoke that processes must be followed. There are delegates that apply, follow the process and are allowed to speak. He felt that waiving the rules of order is unfair to the people that follow proper procedure (like Mr Ferris) and that it is especially unfair to the people at home watching, since they can not just raise their hand to speak on the spur of the moment, since they are not physically at town hall, for whatever reason.
Councillor Pouget then argued that the “procurement bylaw”, I believe she actually meant the procedural bylaw, but whatever….had been changed to a unanimous vote to waive the rules of order. She felt that it was her right to make the motion to waive the rules of order.
Mayor Prue pointed out that it was also the Deputy Mayor’s right to say no.
Councillor Pouget asked for a recorded vote. (LOL!!!) There was a back and forth between Councillor Pouget and the Mayor…..Mayor Prue said that it was not a substantive motion and that unanimous consent is required and they already knew that the Deputy Mayor did not agree to waive the rules of order. Councillor Pouget argued some more and the Mayor said it was not a substantive motion and that he would not allow a recorded vote. He asked the Deputy Mayor to confirm his “no” vote and he did.
(Small tangent time from me…..the agenda comes out 10 days in advance, which allows ample time for people to register to delegate to council…..Mr Ferris had just spoken very well on behalf of the AMA Sportsmen’s Club and had followed proper procedure, kudos to him! In the past, when motions were made to waive the rules of order, all order went out the window! It created chaos and extremely long meetings, since things were being repeated over and over and over again which created extremely inefficient meetings……Why bother even having a procedural bylaw if members of council are going to be quick to waive it? Why not just make it a big free for all every two weeks, with no procedures, no rules, just a big gong show? If people want to delegate, it’s an easy process and the process should be followed in my opinion. It’s almost like some members of council want the long drawn-out unproductive meetings……)
Information Report for K. Walter Ranta Park Proposed Boat Ramp
Since the delegation had been about this item, it was pulled forward on the agenda. In the report, there are two options and two prices. The recommendation is simply to receive the report.
Here’s a link to the report for those who are interested (it provides the history of the property as well.) https://pub-amherstburg.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=14850
There are two options included in the report. Option #1 – Boat Ramp at the far West End of the Park along the River . The costs are outlined in the report and the final price tag is $1.6 Million.
Option #2 – Boat Ramp Located Closer to Road using the Existing Canal. Again, the costs are broken down in the report but this option totals $5.6 Million.
Councillor McArthur spoke first. He thanked staff for the well-written report and noted that the costs were sobering. He felt that the report showed the project is feasible (although costly) and that is how politics come into play. He noted that the report had not included overriding costs and felt that the project would likely be in the $2.5 Million range. He wondered if the launch could also accommodate kayaks and paddle boards. Ms Baillargeon, Director of Parks and Facilities felt that any craft could be launched but that perhaps those may be in a separate area of the park. Councillor McArthur felt that the parking would be inadequate and wondered if more spots could be created and if that could affect trees. Ms Baillargeon said that there are trees in the way but that the soil conditions are all fill. She mentioned that the old shoreline is where the parking lot sits now. The area is a former swamp area and has a lot of topsoil. There would be a need for stone, since the soil is like toothpaste and that access for fire trucks would be necessary, since boat fires can happen. She also noted that there is no servicing there at all at the moment, no hydro etc.
Councillor Courtney spoke about public access to the water being a pillar in the Strategic Plan. He asked if there were any other viable areas in Amherstburg for a boat launch. Ms Baillargeon felt that there were a lot of ways to provide access to the water, with fishing piers etc but that area would be the only feasible area for a boat launch. She again mentioned the high cost to put one in and that council would have to decide which projects to put on hold should they want to put in a boat launch. (Interesting….since council ultimately voted for the boat launch, which projects will have to be put on hold to fund the boat launch? Centennial Park? Another park? The transient marina at Duffy’s? The fire hall? Roads? Bridges? Exactly which projects will council put on hold in order to fund this boat ramp????)
CAO Critchley spoke about the Strategic Plan and that Pillar 2 was not just about a boat launch. She mentioned to delve down to page 22 and explained it to Councillor Courtney. So, I, myself delved down to page 22 of the Strategic Plan and this is what I found :
■ GOAL #4 Create public access to the water and waterfront
⬤ INITIATIVES
1. Complete the extension of the Kings Navy Yard Park onto the former Duffy’s property
2. Identify and develop plans for access to water through town owned land
3. Investigate the feasibility of a boat launch at Ranta Park
⬤ MEASURES
0 No. of public access points to the water
0 No. of meters of new or refurbished public waterfront
Councillor Allaire asked, out of curiosity, whether council chose option 1 or option 2 for the boat launch if there would first be public consultation.
Ms Baillargeon said that yes, there would be a lot of steps to the process, including public consultation and Ministry approvals etc.
Mayor Prue passed the gavel. He felt that he was sensing the mood to proceed with the boat launch but move forward with it at a later date. He mentioned that it is a 2 Million dollar PLUS project and that council could either debenture it (borrow the funds), raise taxes 8% just to pay for the boat launch, or raise taxes 4% this year and 4% next year to pay for the boat launch or to just say no. He asked administration, if council were to proceed, what would they recommend.
Ms Osborne, Deputy CAO, said that the whole process would take a couple of years and mentioned funding for 2027. She also mentioned that council had a 5 year capital plan in place at the moment and they would have to return to council to see which projects council would want to push out further into the future in order to move forward with the boat launch. ( So again, council, which projects will have to be put on hold to fund the boat launch? Centennial Park? Another park? The transient marina at Duffy’s? The fire hall? Roads? Bridges? Exactly which projects will council put on hold in order to fund this boat ramp????
Things got interesting here…..suddenly the Mayor asked if the AMA Sportsman’s Club could do some fundraising. Councillor Courtney wondered if there was grant money available, there is not at the moment. Councillor Courtney wondered why two more years of planning would be necessary. Ms Baillargeon explained that a fish study would have to be done, sensitive habitats are in the area and that various Ministry approvals would be necessary. Ms Baillargeon also spoke about how it took 5 years to get the Duffy’s project moving since appropriate approvals are required and take time. She mentioned that with the boat launch sooner could be possible but the tendering process itself takes about 2 years.
Councillor Allaire asked about the capital projects for this year. Ms Osborne said that if council wants to push out or change capital projects to instead do the boat launch that would be up to them. She mentioned a June report was coming about capital projects. (Which park will council decide to push down the road in order to fund a boat ramp? I can hardly wait….)
Councillor Courtney then made a motion to support option #1 (the 1.6 Million plus option) and that staff continue with public consultation, look for funding opportunities and conduct further studies. He felt that the boat launch was a “no brainer” and that it’s vital since nobody knows what Amherstburg Yacht Club may do in the future. He felt that we don’t need to build the TajMahal but that residents can at least see a future for this boat launch. (I always love the look for funding opportunities….i.e. Grants….town administration is always looking for grant money….and often we get some….but ultimately, who is going to fund the boat ramp? The taxpayers will…..all of us….Mayor Prue was right, either taxes will need to go way up to fund this OR council will have to set aside another project in order to fund this…..which project will get set aside Councillor Courtney? Centennial Park? The Skate Park? Another park? Ball diamonds? Tennis courts? Basketball courts? Because if we’re going to pull money to fund a boat ramp, that falls within parks budget…..would council pull funding for roads to do a boat ramp? I hope not!)
Councillor Pouget expressed her support and wanted an amendment about public consultation to happen as soon as possible. Mayor Prue noted for her that public consultation was already included in the motion.
Councillor McArthur spoke at length about his support for the project. He talked about the strategic plan but also noted the project is expensive and that council will have to budget for this. He suggested possibly putting $500,000 into a reserve each year and not use reserves to whittle down the tax rate. He mentioned how there is no money set aside at the moment for a boat launch. He also mentioned that council would have to save the money and/or put it on people’s tax bills. He felt that putting a ramp at Ranta Park would be best for Amherstburg in the long term. He felt that the $1.6 Million estimate was low, seeing that there are issues with the soil but that it was the best option. He talked about the long term future and the importance of a public boat launch. He felt that we needed one but noted that it would be expensive.
Councillor Crain spoke and said that with the motion as presented he could not support it. He felt that the cost to build a boat launch was just too high and he could not justify that the town would be competing with a business right next door. He felt that it was a lot of money to spend ($2.5 Million) to save $5 each time a boat is launched. He said that he was all for access to the water and had supported the motion to investigate the feasibility of a boat launch (which is what got us to this point). He felt that there could be access for fishing, kayaks and canoes. Councillor Crain noted that Amherstburg has the lowest amount of reserves in the municipality and among the highest in debt per capita. He also mentioned that council had invested $3 Million in the Duffy’s property and that they weren’t finished with that project yet. (And I wanted to stand up and clap. That, right there, is taking one’s fiduciary responsibility seriously. He hit it spot on. Low reserves, high debt, a HUGE infrastructure deficit, but let’s take on more infrastructure with no way or plan to pay for it? Some serious food for thought here folks…..)
Councillor Allaire said that she ran her campaign on saving green space and that she would support this project. She was hopeful that public consultations would begin right away.
Councillor Pouget spoke in support. She mentioned how Councillor McArthur mentioned that council would have to raise taxes but that she had a motion for new business that would help reduce taxes. (Don’t get your hopes up folks. I did. I regret that. The motion was a dud. More on that later.) Councillor Pouget then addressed Councillor Crain, that he had mentioned that the town shouldn’t compete with others yet she felt that the “we” do that all the time with Open Air, that the downtown businesses compete with others. (Sigh……someone help me out here….what is the correlation between a public boat ramp being built a few meters away from a private one and businesses doing business during Open Air? There is no logic to be found here. Second…..why do certain members of council address Councillor Crain directly – regularly – and he NEVER gets a chance to reply? Later in the meeting, the Mayor afforded this right to Councillor Pouget when another member of council addressed her directly, yet it seems that Councillor Crain is never afforded the same rights. It almost, almost, seems like certain members of council are targeting him in their comments. It’s getting out of hand and gross.)
Deputy Mayor Gibb spoke next. He said that the cost of the project had floored him. He felt that something Mr Ferris had said had really hit him. He had said that it had only been two years and that it was too soon to give up. He felt that staff was right and that they gave fearless honesty by recommending not to proceed because of the high expense. Deputy Mayor Gibb felt that nothing good happens overnight, it takes time and that the boat launch might not even happen during this term of council. He felt that council shouldn’t give up yet, that they had just started the journey but he also noted that the $1.6 Million price is probably low and that the end price would likely be at least $2.5 Million plus. He mentioned reading old Amherstburg Echo’s and how people were against the construction of the Kings Navy Yard Park but that it is now a jewel of our community. He hoped that everybody could be patient and that he would support the motion.
Mayor Prue spoke and said that he always felt that dreams should be nurtured. He felt that this was about more than dollars and cents. He said that he would support option #1 but that he expected the AMA Sportsman’s Club to beat the bushes, find donations and fundraise as well. He felt that they have to get the cost down since it will likely be a $2.5 Million project. He felt that the $139,000 in the Ranta Park reserve should be used toward the studies. He felt that it was a difficult debate and an enormous amount of money. He felt that this is a long term goal and what Amherstburg needs as a river town. He said he would support the motion as amended.
Councillor Courtney was allowed to speak again. He mentioned Councillor Crain was exercising his fiduciary responsibility. (Councillor Crain was not offered to address this direct comment.) Councillor Courtney felt that it would be a team effort for the boat launch and that it will be a while. He also spoke about the dredging nightmare and the costs of that.
It went to a recorded vote : (I take my notes by hand, here’s what I caught) a motion to support option #1 (the 1.6 Million plus option) and that staff continue with public consultation, look for funding studies and conduct further studies.
Support : Councillor Allaire, Councillor Courtney, Deputy Mayor Gibb, Councillor McArthur, Councillor Pouget and Mayor Prue
Opposed : Councillor Crain
There were many people leaving the gallery and it was noisy. There was a request for a brief recess to allow the gallery to clear out.
It was now 7:25.
Delegation Item #15.1 – Amherstburg Mind Body and Soul Event – Linda DiPasquale
Ms DiPasquale addressed council next. Before she began, she noted that due to the lengthy wait, she had lost some of her members of support for her delegation. She introduced two other individuals and said that another had had to leave. (They were there representing various user groups)
Here is the link to her powerpoint presentation (this will help me save some keystrokes) https://pub-amherstburg.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=14861
She explained that she was not the originator of the idea for this event. It was an event to foster health and well-being, with elements about nutrition, mental wellness, a healthy lifestyle, being active etc. She noted that they were not-for-profit groups organizing the event and that the proceeds would be donated to the Miracle League. Ms DiPasquale also explained the benefits to the community for the event. She noted the various rental fees that would have to be paid and they totaled $4,885.82 with tax included. She felt that they would have to charge a high price of admission to people to cover those fees and then would have less to donate at the end. She asked council to waive the fees for the event.
Councillor Crain spoke first. He felt that this was a great event and that he didn’t have a problem waiving the user fees for the groups. He felt that most of the groups are paying weekly fees anyway to use the Libro and that this event would be bringing people to Amherstburg and to the Libro.
Councillor Pouget noted that they were all not for profit organizations and that all proceeds would go to the Miracle League. She also said she would support waiving the fees.
CAO Critchley felt that it was a great initiative but that there are a number of groups that pay the user fees and they are not for profit. She felt it might be prudent for council to request a report about all not for profit user groups and the fees that they pay in order for council to see the lost revenue that would happen by waiving fees.
Ms DiPasquale said she could appreciate this could set a precedent. She felt that this is the inaugural year for the event and that it could be a deterrent. She felt that they would be able to pay the fees next year. They were hopeful that this was a one time request and that they were expecting the event to grow and then they could pay the user fees next year.
Councillor McArthur noted that in the recommendation, it was already recommended to waive the fees. Ms Baillargeon said that a full report could be provided about the various user groups.
Councillor Courtney felt that the event was a great idea but that he wanted to wait for a report before deciding to waive the fees. Mayor Prue asked when a report could be ready. Ms Baillargeon said it could be ready in May but not for the next meeting.
Ms DiPasquale said that the organizers would do everything possible to make this event possible with or without the waiver of the fees.
Mayor Prue noted that the event would likely be approved that night at the meeting but that the only thing that may not be was the fee waiver and that would come back on May 27th.
Councillor Crain noted another event was happening at the Libro for Halloween and wondered if they were also asking for their fees to be exempt. Mr Tetler, Manager of Licensing, said that that particular event (the Halloween one) was not asking for their fees to be waived. Councillor Crain asked when event organizers normally pay their fees. Mr Tetler said that payments are required at the time of the event.
There was a motion made to receive the delegation. It carried.
2024 Special Events Approval-Part 3
Councillor McArthur made the motion as written below, including the waiver of the fees (part 4b for this event). Councillor Pouget seconded it.
1. The following events BE APPROVED:
- Amherstburg Ribfest 2024 – June 13th – Jun 16th , 2024
- Mind, Body and Soul – July 20th , 2024
- Art Crawl 2024 – July 20th – 21st , 2024
- Amherstburg’s Gone Car Crazy – July 28th, 2024
- Canada Day – July 1st , 2024
- Shop Local Halloween Market – October 26th , 2024
- Ribs & Ragtime – June 8th, 2024
- Bob Meloche Fishing Derby – June 16th , 2024
2. An exemption from table number 3-1(2) of Noise By-law #2001- 43 with respect to the operation of any electronic device or group of connected electronic devices incorporating one or more loudspeakers to allow for music BE GRANTED for the following events:
- Ribs & Ragtime – June 8th , 2024
- Canada Day – July 1st , 2024
- Amherstburg’s Gone Car Crazy – July 28th , 2024
- Art Crawl 2024 – July 20th & July 21st , 2024
- Mind, Body and Soul – July 20th, 2024
- Amherstburg Ribfest 2024 – June 13th – June 16th, 2024
3. The following events BE EXEMPT and PERMITTED for road closures to begin prior to 5pm:
- Amherstburg’s Gone Car Crazy – July 28th, 2024
- Ribs & Ragtime – June 8th, 2024
- Amherstburg Ribfest – June 13th – June 16th, 2024
- Canada Day – July 1st, 2024
4. The fee waiver requests BE APPROVED as follows:
- Amherstburg Ribfest – June 13th – June 16th, 2024 (Road Closure Fee $250)
- Mind, Body and Soul – July 20th, 2024 (Libro Rental Fee ($4,885.82)
5. The Public Events Committee BE DIRECTED to confirm that the requirements identified by the Committee are met prior to the event.
Councillor Courtney said that he could not support the motion since it was precedent setting to waive the fees. He noted that the organizers would be using the entire Libro facility.
There was then a motion to divide the motion. So, in essence, council would vote once for everything except 4B and then vote again about 4B, the waiver of the fees.
The motion to divide the above motion carried 3-2 (Councillor Allaire had declared a conflict on the events section).
Then, the Mayor asked if there would be any discussion on anything in the motion, except for 4B. There was not, the motion was made and it carried. Everything except 4B carried……
Wait for it folks……either some members of council did not fully read all of the information about the events or they didn’t understand the maps and reports…. because wait for it…………The Rib Fest will be held downtown on Ramsey Street from June 13th to June 16th…..which means that Ramsey Street AND the public parking lot at the corner of Richmond Street and Ramsey Street will be closed for four whole days!!!! So two of the three members of council that are always going on and on and on and on about “closed streets” for Open Air, just approved to close even more streets and a parking lot for an extra day!!!!!!!! No questions, no comments, nada. Not a peep. Personally, I thought it was quite ironic and a little bit funny! Tell me you’re not reading the reports without telling me you’re not reading the reports. 😉 Or perhaps, the outrage by these three councillors about “closed streets” is disingenuous or perhaps fake, since they just voted to close yet another street AND a parking lot!!! Councillors Allaire, Courtney and Pouget consistently vote against Open Air. Yet neither Councillor Courtney nor Councillor Pouget said one single word about another street being closed to accommodate the event! Odd. As for me, I can’t wait! This is going to be a great event! For my fellow Open Air lovers, it will be even bigger and better for the weekend of June 13th to 16th! Ramsey Street from Murray St to Richmond St will be closed as well to allow for the ribbers to set up. I’m sure I’ll see you all there having a great time! 😀
Now it was time to vote just on item 4B which was to waive the fees of $4,885.82 at the Libro Centre for the Mind, Body and Soul event.
Councillor McArthur felt this was not precedent setting. He felt that they wanted to take all of the money that they will make and donate it to the Miracle League. He felt that that money would do a lot of good and as Councillor Crain had pointed out, the user groups pay fees to use the facility on a regular basis.
Councillor Pouget said that she agreed with what Councillor McArthur said. She felt that the report was clear to waive the fees and that she shouldn’t vote against it. (I always find it ironic when it’s pointed out that one report was clear about what to do about something but other reports are ignored or disregarded. Like the report about the boat launch that basically said we can’t afford it was disregarded 5 minutes ago LOL, even though it too was clear, Councillor Pouget chose to vote in opposition to the recommendation…hmmmm…..) Councillor Pouget felt that it was a one time request for the group and they were prepared to pay the fees next year.
Councillor Crain noted that as an event host, before he was elected to council, for the 100-year anniversary of Amherst High School, the fees were waived. He did note that he does need clarity about waiving fees but that he would support it. He felt that at times things were wishy washy about which fees were waived.
Deputy Mayor Gibb felt that it was a valuable project and said he wished he could waive the fees. He felt that council needed a report about such waivers since council already donates and gives grants to local not for profit groups. He felt they shouldn’t be waiving some fees and not others. He said that he may be able to waive fees, but would need a report first, otherwise it would just become another donation.
Councillor Courtney felt that perhaps an upset limit could be set. He felt that it was a big ask since the group was using the entire Libro Centre. At this point, Councillor Allaire started addressing Councillor Courtney from across the room about requesting a report…..then she must’ve remembered that she had declared a conflict on this item and she stopped talking……There was then some talk of deferral until a report came but ultimately it went to a vote to waive the fees. It carried 3-2. In favour were Councillors McArthur, Crain and Pouget. Opposed were Deputy Mayor Gibb and Councillor Courtney.
Councillor McArthur and Councillor Pouget must’ve been feeling very generous Monday night. They both voted to proceed with a boat ramp with a price tag well into the millions AND then to waive almost $5,000 in user fees at the Libro Centre. I wonder if they’ll add me to their Christmas lists?
Internet Purchase Exchange Location
This is a pretty forward-thinking and innovative idea. People often buy things from others on internet marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace or Kijiji. Usually people need to meet to complete the transaction to pay for their purchase and claim their item. As seen in the news, it can be risky meeting with strangers for these types of situations so people often seek a public place to meet. It seems that some of our neighbouring municipalities have set up an “Internet Purchase Exchange Location” in a visible and public place. It appears that administration is recommending that Amherstburg follow suit by installing a camera in the municipal parking lot south of the Police Detachment. There would be two spots designated for the individuals to make the exchange. The camera and the proximity to the Police Detachment would provide more safety. The police would have direct access to the video recordings should there be any complaints and can be called to attend if there’s an emergency.
Here is the recommendation :
It is recommended that:
1. The Chief Administrative Officer, or designate, BE AUTHORIZED to purchase and install equipment and signage in the parking lot adjacent to 532 Sandwich St. South to facilitate and authorize the creation of an Internet Purchase Exchange Location as noted in the report of April 22, 2024;
2. A transfer from the Tax Stabilization Reserve Fund not to exceed $4,500 (plus HST) BE AUTHORIZED.
Councillor Crain felt that this was a good idea and he had no objections to putting this in place for Amherstburg residents. Councillor Pouget also expressed her support. The motion was made and it carried.
2024 Amendments to Traffic By-Law 2011-69
Back in 2011, council approved a Traffic By-Law. The bylaw needs to be reviewed periodically and there are some updates included in the report. Here’s the recommendation :
It is recommended that: 1. By-law 2024-023 being a By-law to Amend By-law 2011-69 be taken as having been read three times and finally passed and the Mayor and Clerk BE AUTHORIZED to sign same.
Deputy Mayor Gibb asked if, for the next bylaw to be amended if staff could red-line the document, in order for council to see what language was being changed. He felt that would be simpler and easier. The Clerk agreed that could be put in place.
Councillor Allaire had a question regarding a section of the bylaw. She noted that in part of it, it said that skateboards did not have access to the roadways but that people using in-line skates do. Mr Chaimberlain said that that portion had always been in the bylaw. Ms Giofu, Director of engineering, spoke about multi-use of roadways and that she would look into it.
Councillor Courtney agreed that he liked the idea of the red-line to see the changes and mentioned that he’d rather defer this to another meeting.
Councillor Allaire noted that she had read through every line and if it were just the red changes, she would have just focused on the red. She said that she “won’t let another bylaw fool me”. (I had to chuckle a bit. Again. I’m guessing she was referring to the procedural bylaw that council passed unanimously in August. I’m not really sure how a bylaw can fool anybody. They’re written in black and white. You either read or you don’t. You either understand it or you don’t. It’s not some type of magic trick that should be fooling anybody. How does a document written in black and white fool somebody?)
Anyway, a motion was made to defer this item and it carried. Deferred.
Removal of Part Lot Control- Boblo South End
I think we all know by now that anything to do with Boblo on the agenda causes (unnecessary) drama.
The motion was made and seconded :
It is recommended that:
1. The application for Removal of Part Lot Control for Part of Bois Blanc Island, being Lot 139, Lot 141, Lot 155, Lot 156, Lot 160 and Lot 172 on Plan 12M-700, known locally as Boblo South End Subdivision, BE APPROVED; and,
2. By-law 2024-031 being a by-law to remove certain lands from Part Lot Control be taken as having been read three times and finally passed and the Mayor and Clerk BE AUTHORIZED to sign same.
Councillor Pouget said that she could not approve this item since she felt it went against their strategic plan. (Ironically, waiving the rules of order as she had motioned to do earlier in the meeting also goes against the strategic Plan LOL Goal #1 page 17 for those that want to check it out https://acrobat.adobe.com/link/review?uri=urn%3Aaaid%3Ascds%3AUS%3Aa3cfdf7c-c0cd-30eb-82fb-70a2592fa745 ) She felt that she had not received any assurances about if the barges go down how the town would deliver services. She also started talking about the land for the garage for the fire truck hadn’t been cleared yet. Therefore she would not approve this item.
Councillor Courtney asked if council could not not approve this item. Ms Osborne, Deputy CAO, said that this item was part lot control and had already been approved. She said that if council were to deny it now that they would need a defense for the Ontario Land Tribunal. She noted that Councillor Pouget’s concerns were not a planning reason to deny this item. Councillor Pouget went on about how very concerning it was about the barges and that she doesn’t know of any other way to get information. Ms Osborne pointed out that the developer was just redrawing some lines differently but there were no new lots. Mayor Prue passed the gavel to say that this is just a planning rationale to redraw some lines. The motion was made and it carried. It was odd that it was even discussed, but I digress. I think Councillor Pouget voted against it anyway.
Annual Treasurer’s Report – 2023 Council and Appointee Statement on Remuneration and Expenses
If you recall, this report was on the agenda for the last meeting. It consists of the breakdown of what each member of council was paid and/or reimbursed. Also, committee members’ stipends were listed. At the last meeting, the Treasurer was absent and a few members of council had questions.
Councillor Pouget asked the Treasurer to explain why her T4 had a difference of $200 compared to the report. There was back and forth about this…..frankly it was a big time waster….the Treasurer explained it, more than once, to Councillor Pouget. One member of council was far more concerned with their computer screen and keyboard the whole time. And finally the motion was made to receive the report and it carried.
NEW BUSINESS
This section of new business was in a league all its own. It was almost like it had been rehearsed in advance. I saw nods given across the table, signals made, almost as if some members of council knew what was coming and were prepared with seconds or “questions” or “comments”. Maybe some members of council think this is a soap opera “As Amherstburg Turns” and decided to script everything out ahead of time?
County Road 20
Councillor Pouget made a motion regarding County Road 20. She wanted the Mayor and Deputy Mayor to request that the County include Amherstburg in the traffic study that is being done in LaSalle. Councillor Allaire seconded it. Councillor Pouget felt that there was excessive speed. Mayor Prue said that the Mayor of LaSalle had already raised the concern at County Council since the extra traffic is coming from Amherstburg. The motion was made and it carried.
Recycling
Then, Councillor Allaire spoke of the lack of recycling at town hall and the Libro Centre. She wanted recycle containers available to the public. Ms Baillargeon said it could be looked into and she could report back about costs.
Boblo dock
Councillor Allaire asked if there had been an update about the Boblo dock removal. CAO Critchley said that she had reached out to her contact at the DFO but had not heard back yet. She said she would follow up again.
LED Sign
Councillor Courtney asked if user fees for the LED sign at the Gateway of town could be made available to the businesses. Ms Osborne said that the town is looking at ways to encourage revenue.
Social media and the press
This part of the meeting was really something. Councillor Courtney said that he does not participate on social media but that he watches it. Councillor Courtney felt concerns with members of council’s involvement with the media and social media. He felt that in the past council had been told to stand down and allow the Mayor to speak. He noted that the Deputy Mayor filled in while the Mayor was on vacation overseas. He noticed a comment under a post about Valente purchasing the former General Amherst High School that said “where is our mayor?” He said he noticed a lot of talk about the sale of the High school on social media and in the press. He felt that the mayor should be dealing with the media and he asked if council can speak to the media about issues. (It seemed to me that Councillor Courtney might be envious or perhaps a little jealous of certain members of council and their social media presence? Or media presence in general? I guess the other option, rather than just “watch”, would be to become involved and contribute? Just a thought….)
The Clerk pointed out that the code of conduct had been amended. He noted that members of council are free to express their opinions as long as they keep an accurate view of a council decision and defend the position of council as a whole. He said he could send the amended code of conduct to council.
Councillor Courtney felt that “hot ticket items” should be coming from the Mayor. Councillor McArthur spoke about how the Mayor is the official spokesperson. He also noted that members of council have an obligation, even if they disagree, to accurately describe the decisions of council. He felt that how the code of conduct was written before might muzzle members of council. But now, they are free to speak their conscience. He also noted that the issues Councillor Courtney had raised, such as the old high school is not a council issue. He felt that if the media calls, they’re each free to speak to them.
Councillor Courtney felt that the sale of the former General Amherst was a big “to do” and that any announcement should have been from the Mayor. (Um, does he realize that the town did not own the high school? Why would the Mayor announce the sale of a building that the town did not own? Kind of nonsensical…..)
Councillor McArthur noted that the sale of the high school was not a town decision nor an administrative decision. He felt that it was a sizable real estate deal and that should empower councillors to speak to the media.
Deputy Mayor Gibb agreed. He felt that the sale of the former General Amherst had nothing to do with council. He noted that Valente put a sign up on the building. He also said that if a reporter calls him, he answers the call since he was elected to represent the people of Amherstburg.
Councillor Pouget said she had received many calls about the Anchor District. She had been asked if council had approved it. She felt that we have to respect the Mayor and that there was confusion with the public.
Councillor McArthur said that this was a great opportunity to clear the air. He noted that the Anchor District has nothing to do with council. He also spoke about how on the Transportation Master Plan, there were 3 options presented for Murray street and the public were asked for their feedback about it. The options included closing that one block for a pedestrian friendly area OR removing the parking to allow for expanded sidewalks and traffic only OR leave it as is. He noted that everyone saw these options in the Transportation Master Plan. Councillor McArthur also pointed out that businesses are free to put things on social media and that they put a concept out and can do so.
(And after the meeting, what did Councillor Courtney do? Spoke with two reporters….LOL)
The Libro Centre
Remember the big cost-saving motion that would be so beneficial to taxpayers that was mentioned earlier in the meeting? Well here it was….prepare to be disappointed.
Councillor Pouget made a motion to direct administration to prepare a complete report to decrease the budget at the Libro Centre and then to send it to the Audit and Finance Committee for their review.
Mayor Prue asked if Councillor Pouget could specify an amount or a percentage, since the way the motion was written, it could be one dollar. Councillor Pouget felt that the Libro had a 2 Million dollar budget and she did not know how to reduce it so she wanted administration and the Audit and Finance Committee to find ways.
Councillor Allaire seconded the motion…..
(I was sitting there in disbelief……Councillor Pouget voted in favour of proceeding with a boat launch that will cost us well in excess of 2 Million dollars and was now looking to shave a couple of bucks off the Libro budget. Ya, that’s helpful…..sorry for the sarcasm, but geez….Oh, and she also just voted to waive almost $5,000 in fees for use of the Libro Centre……so waiving fees, now cut their budget? Makes no sense to me…..)
Councillor Courtney said that he would support the motion to find efficiencies but then pointed out that Councillor Pouget had just voted tonight to waive $4,800 in fees that would be income for the Libro Centre. (LOL!!!!! Zinger! How’s that for inconsistent? LOL I’ll vote to waive almost $5,000 in fees, but now find efficiencies in your budget…..awesome…..)
Councillor Pouget was then allowed to defend herself since she was mentioned directly. (Funny how Councillor Crain never seems to be afforded the same right….) Councillor Pouget said that she voted to waive the fees based on the report recommending it. She felt that the event would bring tourists to the Libro. (Again, this was getting rich…..Councillor Pouget was suddenly gung-ho for tourism? Was I in an alternate universe?) Councillor Pouget also felt that the amount was insignificant in the grand scheme. (Again, what was going on? A $200 difference on her T4 generated 5 minutes of discussion, but $4,800 was insignificant?)
Deputy Mayor Gibb said that he couldn’t support this motion since the time to look at the Libro budget is at budget time not halfway through the year.
Councillor Crain felt that this motion seemed more like a notice of motion. He spoke about the procedural bylaw on page four stating that substantial matters should be notices of motion. The Clerk explained that action items are generally for notice of motion. He read from the procedural bylaw.
Councillor Allaire said that she would support the report to find efficiencies.
Councillor McArthur said that he would oppose the motion since he felt it was nebulous. (Just in case you don’t know what nebulous means, it means hazy, vague, indistinct or confused.) Councillor McArthur said that a Director could say, turn off the lights, turn off the air conditioning, stop the programs, fire the people and that would save money. He felt that the motion went against the spirit of building programming at the Libro. He felt that if there were a specific area, then it could be looked at at budget time. He noted that the arena loses money every year and that council knows that. He also noted that council just directed administration to proceed with a boat launch (and yes, a boat launch will lose money every year, just like the arena does.)
CAO Critchley said that when administration prepares the budget they are always looking for efficiencies. The true losses and the true costs are shown. She also noted that this year some of the fees at the Libro were not increased since people didn’t want to pay them and council kept the fees down. She noted that the Libro is a public service and a public entity.
Mayor Prue felt that this was very difficult since Councillor Pouget had not asked for a specific percentage or dollar amount to be saved. He wondered if she were looking for $100,000 or $2 Million? He also pointed out that there is no public institution in Canada that is set up for recreational services that makes any money. They provide services and will never turn a profit. Mayor Prue also noted that it is the same with the Senior’s Centre, now that it’s been turned over to the seniors, there is not a chance in hell that it will make money. (This whole thing was turning around fast on Councillor Pouget…..it’s hard when all of your previous decisions come back to haunt you LOL! Council waived all of the senior’s fees for the old ACS building, tonight waived $4,800 in fees for the Libro, voted to spend MILLIONS for a boat launch, but hey, let’s look to find money in the Libro budget. It was nonsensical….)
Councillor Courtney then spoke and said he had been swayed and would not support the motion. He felt that council could look at last year’s template and this was “getting off track”. (Was it ever on the track? I really don’t know….)
The motion went to a vote and was defeated 4-2. (In favour were the mover and seconder, Councillors Pouget and Allaire. The rest were opposed.)
I started packing up my things thinking the show was over.
BY-LAWS 24.1 Final Tax Rating By-Law 2024-028
But, the show was not over. Usually bylaws fly through and next thing you know the meeting is being adjourned. Not tonight though.
Councillor Pouget said that she had voted against the budget and would vote against the bylaw. The Treasurer said that now that all of the assessments are in, the final rate is 6.22%.
Councillor Pouget said that it should be made clear to the constituents that our tax increase was over 7%.
Mayor Prue seemed somewhat provoked. He said that was not the case at all. When the three rates are melded together, so the town’s 6.22%, the school board’s 0% and the County’s 4%, all melded together the total would be 3.82% is what the constituents will see. Mayor Prue pointed out to Councillor Pouget that Council had voted for this.
My head was spinning.
The meeting adjourned at 9:03 PM.
I don’t even know how to wrap this all up…..just re-reading the blog to proofread for typos made my head spin all over again. So I guess I’ll just leave at this. Monday night’s meeting was brought to you by the letter I for Inconsistency.
It looks like the next meeting isn’t until May 13th so that will use all a little break I guess. And it will give some members of council a little extra time to find odd and random items to bring up for New Business for the next episode of As Amherstburg Turns…..and maybe some extra rehearsal time too?
See you in a while Amherstburg with the next pre-meeting blog! Enjoy the beautiful spring weather!
amherstburg2 