Report on Council: April 9th and 30th, 2018

Posted on April 30, 2018 by Webmaster

REPORT ON COUNCIL
April 9 and 30, 2018:
Committee of the Whole Meetings: April 9, 2018: 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. and April 30, 2018: 9:00 a.m. – 3:34 p.m.
Regular Meetings of Council: April 9, 2018: 3:30 p.m. – 3:43 p.m.; and April 30, 2018: 6:13 p.m. – 6:25 p.m.
Mayor George Cornell, Deputy Mayor Steffen Walma and Councillors Cindy Hastings, Richard Hinton and Gibb Wishart present for the Committee of the Whole and Regular Meeting on April 9 and, with the exception of the Mayor on April 30. Councillor Hinton arrived an hour late for Committee of the Whole on April 9.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Jackson Park Public Boat Launch Closure (staff is working on various options)

May 26, 2018, 8:30 a.m. – Recreation Master Plan Open House, Tiny Township Community Centre, Meeting Room

May 26, 2018, 10 a.m. – 12 noon – Town Hall Meeting, Tiny Township Community Centre

June 2, 2018 – National Health and Fitness Day, Bernie Le Clair and Perkinsfield Parks

June 19 & 21, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Senior Symposium, Tiny Township Community Centre

July 13, 2018 – Mayor’s Charity Golf Tournament and Dinner, Brooklea Golf & Country Club

July 21, 2018, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Community BBQ, Perkinsfield Park

August 12, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. – Balm Beach Family Fun Day

REPORT REGARDING DRAFT 2 OF THE OFFICIAL PLAN UPDATE:
Jamie Robinson OF MHBC Planning provided an overview of the main themes of the many comments received from organizations and members of the public at the open houses in Vaughan and Tiny Township. These concerned Natural Heritage and Agricultural mapping, protection of the dune system in Bluewater Beach Park, expanded Greenlands mapping, protection of French’s Hill and associated ground water, strengthening Mineral Aggregate Policies, Second Units in the Shoreline designation, septage spreading, and lack of Seniors’ Housing policies. See the article on page 5 of the spring/summer Tiny Cottager for detail on these matters.

Council directed staff and MHBC to produce Draft 3 of the Update in accordance with the recommendations in its Report and release it to the public. The statutory Public Meeting is to be scheduled as soon as possible.

BALM BEACH FAMILY FUN DAY ON AUGUST 12:
Thanks to the hard work of the Balm Beach Community Association, the Business Association of Balm Beach, Balm Beach residents, and Township staff, plans are well advanced for a Balm Beach Family Fun Day on August 12th from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is to include vendors, displays and exhibits, entertainment, activities for all ages, refreshments, and a silent auction. Council has agreed to provide “in kind” support valued at $3,808 and financial support of $4,200. Monies from sponsorships and the silent auction are to be used to help fund children’s recreational equipment at Balm Beach; vendor fees are to support Busk Till Dusk, and recreational equipment. Balm Beach Road is to be closed from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. between the stores and the beach area.

 

BOATING RESTRICTION:

In March, Transport Canada sent a letter reminding the Township of the general 10 km/h speed restriction within 30 m of shore for all power-driven vessels, and of the special 10 km/h restriction extending 300 m from the western shore of Tiny from Concession 1 to Concession 16.

 

  1. 12 XPLORNET COMMUNICATIONS TOWER:

As Xplornet had followed the township’s protocol regarding notice and public meetings regarding such towers, Council decided to supply the necessary letter of concurrence for the communications tower that is to be erected at Sandy Bay Road and Concession Road 19 West.

JACKSON PARK BOAT RAMP:
After considering a report from Tim Leitch regarding the boat ramp, Council agreed to dredge and remove material from the ramp; the necessary funds (roughly $26,000) are to be drawn from Operating Reserves.

LAFONTAINE BEACH PARK MASTER PLAN:
The tender has been awarded for the pavilion in Lafontaine Beach Park. The goal is to have it installed prior to the July 1st long weekend.

POLICE SERVICES BOARD:
This three-member Board replaces the Community Policing Committee. On it, Councillor Hinton represents Council, Kevin Leonard the community, and Barry Godding the Province.

According to the Township’s press release, it shall:

  • “participate in the selection of the detachment commander;
  • generally determine the objectives and priorities for police services after consultation with the detachment commander;
  • establish, after consultation with the detachment commander, any local policies with respect to police services;
  • monitor the performance of the detachment commander;
  • receive regular reports from the detachment commander.”

On April 17 when the Board met for the first time, Richard Hinton was elected chair, and on April 30 Council agreed to the Board’s recommendation that it be expanded by including another member of Council and a second provincial appointee. The Board meets next in July and then in October.

WILF RULAND’S REVIEW OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PERMIT TO TAKE WATER FOR AGGREGATE WASHING AND HIS REPORT ON HYDROGEOLOGICAL IMPACTS CAUSED BY AGGREGATE WASHING:
Both were deemed good background information with regard to a complex topic. Shawn Persaud said he would provide both to R.J. Burnside & Associates.

 

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Report on Council: March 12th & 26th, 2018

Posted on March 26, 2018 by Webmaster

REPORT ON COUNCIL
MARCH 12 and 26, 2018:|
Committee of the Whole Meetings: March 12, 2018: 9:01 a.m. – 3:34 p.m. and March 26, 2018: 9:00 a.m. – 4:03 p.m.
Regular Meetings of Council: March 12, 2018: 4:30 p.m. – 4:37 p.m.; and March 26, 2018: 6:00 p.m. – 6:15 p.m.
Mayor George Cornell, Deputy Mayor Steffen Walma and Councillors Richard Hinton and Gibb Wishart present for CoW and Regular Meeting on March 12 and 26. Councillor Cindy Hastings absent March 12, but present March 26.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

  • April 13, 2018 – Draft 2 Official Plan Comment Deadline
  • April 18, 2018, 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. – Election Candidate Information Session, North Simcoe Sports and Recreation Centre, Midland
  • April 22 to 28 – Earth Week Calendar of Events
  • April 25, 2018, 6:30-8:30 p.m. – Recreation Master Plan Open House, Council Chambers, Tiny Township
  • May 1, 2018 to July 27, 2018 – Nomination Period for 2018 Municipal Election
  • May 26, 2018, 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. – Recreation Master Plan Open House, Tiny Township Community Centre, Meeting Room
  • May 26, 2018, 10 a.m. to noon – Town Hall Meeting, Tiny Township Community Centre
  • Jackson Park Public Boat Launch Closure (Public Works is looking for solutions)
  • July 13, 2018 – Mayor’s Charity Golf Tournament, Brooklea Golf and Country Club

SEWAGE SYSTEM (SEPTIC) RE-INSPECTION PROGRAM:

Of the 1236 re-inspections completed in 2017, 268 deficiencies were found, and there may be more when the outstanding tank inspections are submitted (35 revealed deficiencies, so far). Much the most numerous deficiency was root intrusions into the leaching bed (142), followed by parking or driving on the septic tank or leaching bed (26), eaves troughs or sump pumps draining onto the tank or bed (16), outdoor sink or shower with a drain discharging onto the ground (15), outhouses in disrepair (13), information needed about the sewage system (12), and some 44 lots with lower numbers of deficiencies. The report included 18 illuminating photographs of deficiencies.

GRANTS TO COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS:

Groups that received special events funding and/or in-kind support for 2018 are Festival du Loup, Special Olympics, Terry Fox Fun, and several Tiny Lions Club Events. Financial funding of these activities amounts to $2,155, while in kind support is valued at $15, 618.

CONCESSION ROAD 9 CROSSWALK:

Council, once again, decided to have the old crosswalk markings removed and to leave the signs already installed for “pedestrian safety and vehicular awareness.” This decision is to be reviewed with the Carusoe Bay Association.

2017 PUBLIC BEACH WATER MONITORING:

In 2017, the Health Unit monitored five beaches in Tiny: Woodland, Trew Avenue, Jackson Park, Balm, and Lafontaine Park. Beginning in 2018, it will monitor only the five major beach parks: Woodland, Bluewater, Jackson, Balm, and Lafontaine. The Health Unit has revised the standard at which it advises that a beach be posted, raising it from a geometric mean of 100 E. coli or more per 100 mL for five samples to a geometric mean of 200 E. coli or more. This brings it into line with Health Canada’s standard.

LE VILLAGEOIS:

Council sought legal advice about Le Villageois’ failure to pay its taxes and its request that development fees not be imposed on a proposed expansion. Then, all five members of Council decided that this group should not be forgiven tax arrears and development fees when everyone else in the Township accepts those responsibilities or suffers the consequences.

GEORGIAN BAY GREAT LAKES FOUNDATION:

Mary Muter (long-time activist regarding regulation of water levels in the middle Great Lakes) and Paul Cowley (President, FoTTSA) asked for long term funding for expenses related to

  1. Baird Report II (which projects lake levels to 2050)
  2. Mapping ephemeral wetland habitat
  3. Stream water quality monitoring
  4. Lobbying to stop Asian Carp getting farther into the Great Lakes.

Council decided to supply $10,000 funding for 2017. The GBGLF will have to ask the next Council for future funding.

ADDITION TO MUNICIPAL HERITAGE REGISTER:

650 Concession Road 17 West (two-storey log house, built 1870)

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Report on Council: February 12 and March 1, 2018

Posted on March 1, 2018 by Webmaster

REPORT ON COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 12 AND MARCH 1, 2018:
Committee of the Whole Meetings: February 12, 2018: 9:00 a.m. – 2:16 p.m. and March 1, 2018: 9:00 a.m. – 12:13 p.m.
Regular Meetings of Council: February 12, 2018: 3:16 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.; and March 1, 2018: 6:00 p.m. – 6:40 p.m.
Deputy Mayor Steffen Walma and Councillors Cindy Hastings and Gibb Wishart present for both meetings on February 12 and March 1, 2019. Mayor George Cornell absent for both meetings on February 12, 2018, but present for both meetings on March 1, 2018. Councillor Hinton arrived at 9:34 a.m. on March 1 and did not attend the Regular Meeting.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

  • March 22, 2018, 6-7 p.m. – Recreation Master Plan Open House, SpringHill Suites Marriot, 612 Applewood Crescent, Vaughan (Conference Room)
  • March 22, 2018, 7-8:30 p.m. – Official Plan Open House, SpringHill Suites Marriot, 612 Applewood Crescent, Vaughan (Conference Room)
  • March 23, 2018, 5-6:30 p.m. – Official Plan Open House, Council Chambers, Tiny Township
  • April 18, 2018, 6:30-8:30 p.m. – Election Candidate Information Session, North Simcoe Sports and Recreation Centre, Midland
  • April 22-28, 2018 – Earth Week Calendar of Events
  • April 25, 2018, 6:30-8:30 p.m. – Recreation Master Plan Open House, Council Chambers, Tiny Township
  • May 1, 2018 to July 27, 2018 – Nomination Period for 2018 Municipal Election

STAFF:

On March 1, 2018, Council appointed Ray Millar to serve as the Township’s Director of Emergency Services/Fire Chief, as of March 12, 2018.

XPLORNET COMMUNICATIONS TOWER:

If all approvals are granted this proposed tower would be located at 4145 Crossland Road to make broadband available for a stretch of the shore.

APPLICATION OF CRH CANADA GROUP (CRH) FOR A RENEWAL OF ITS PERMIT TO TAKE WATER IN THE TEEDON PIT, 90 DARBY ROAD, CONCESSION 1:

CRH (which owns Dufferin Aggregates) has asked for a ten-year extension of its permit to take water from the well and wash pond in the Teedon Pit for use in aggregate washing. R.J. Burnside and Associates provided comments in 2016 that are applicable to this current application, recommending that “the current condition of nearby domestic wells should be established” and that monitoring at the Teedon Pit “should be expanded to include a staff gauge in the wash pond, a nested well with screens completed at a variety of depths (to monitor change in gradients during use of the wash pond), along with a number of wells completed in the aquifer(s) that are used by domestic wells in the area.”

Council directed staff to submit Burnside’s comments to the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change. Given the community’s interest, Dufferin Aggregates has extended the comment period regarding the Permit for 60 days beyond the original deadline of February 22, 2018.

GREENBELT EXPANSION:

Township Planning Staff attended the open house on expansion of the Greenbelt on January 31, 2018. They discussed the expansion plan with Provincial staff. Reporting to Council, Shawn Persaud (Planning) emphasized that the Greenbelt Plan prohibits significant urban development in a township like Tiny (but Tiny is not going to be assigned much urban development). Moreover, the Greenbelt Plan does not permit settlement area expansion into the Greenbelt (again, not a problem for Tiny). A key difference between municipalities within the Growth Plan but outside the Greenbelt (like Tiny) is that they are able to establish policies that may be more restrictive on mineral aggregate extraction than the Growth Plan’s policies, provided they remain consistent with the Provincial Policy Statement

POLICE SERVICES BOARD:

This three-member Board, which begins to meet in April, replaces the Policing Committee. Councillor Hinton has been appointed Council’s representative, Kevin Leonard the community representative, and the Province has yet to appoint its member to the Board. The Board’s rules and procedures are based on those of the Police Services Board of Penetanguishene. There is to be an informative press release in due course.

PARKING STRATEGY INITIATIVES:

The twenty or so streets covered by the parking program that attracted the most parking tickets in 2017 are to have improved signage. Most clarify existing parking regulations: in two instances the No Parking area is being extended to improve road safety. Seven signs are to be installed on existing posts (presumably because signs had been stolen); 42 others require posts and signs. The streets with the greatest number of parking tickets, are Nicole Blvd (43), Trew Avenue (31), Jackson Park (29), and Pennorth Drive (75). Apparently, many people bought a parking ticket from a machine on Trew Avenue then drove to Nicole Blvd to park, so some of the new signs will make it clear just where a paid parking ticket can be used. New signs are to be installed before the end of May.

DUFFERIN AGGREGATE HOURS OF OPERATION:

Between July and October 2017, concerns were raised about noise and hours of operation at the Dufferin Aggregate – Teedon Pit, 40 Darby Road, Concession 1, Tiny Township. Staff sought a legal opinion on the matter and investigated the hours of operation of surrounding pits. As a result, the hours of operation were moved from a 6 a.m. to a 7 a.m. start time as of January 5, 2018.

WYEVALE:

Soccer fields washroom building: Grant money ($53,405 plus GST) will cover much of the cost of the washroom building. Fundraising by the Wyevale Park Master Plan Implementation Committee is to cover the balance.

9-hole disc/frisbee golf course: Michael Lewis, a teacher at the Wyevale Central Public School applied for and got an experiential learning grant of $4360 to install a course directly outside the school. Students are to be involved in the planning, installation, mentoring of younger students, advertising the course. Council supported this project in principle pending review by staff and the Park’s Master Plan Implementation Committee.

WATER DEPARTMENT 2017 QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM REVIEW:

This presented information about infractions and connected matters about the township’s 16 water systems. It was reassuring to hear that at no point were there risks to customers and that all of the township’s water systems are operated in accordance with the Safe Drinking Water Act. With regard to the nitrate problem in the Lafontaine System, Keith Sherman of SSEA has been working with local farmers and will be making a presentation to Council at its next meeting.

In 2018, an upgrade to the SCADA system that monitors each pump house will lighten the water department’s work load by making it unnecessary for daily visits to pump houses to view statistics. Instead the statistics will be automatically forwarded to a central location.

MUNICIPAL HERITAGE REGISTER:

Two properties have been added to the Register:

  • S. #15 Campbell Schoolhouse (built 1924) at 100 Concession 3 East
  • Log House (built 1910) at 110 Concession 17 West
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Report on Council: December 2017 & January 2018

Posted on January 29, 2018 by Webmaster

REPORT ON COUNCIL

DECEMBER 18, 2017 AND JANUARY 8 and 29, 2018:

Committee of the Whole Meetings: January 8, 2018: 9:00 a.m. – 3:20 p.m. and January 29, 2018: 9:00 a.m. – 5:43 p.m.
Regular Meetings of Council: December 18, 2017: 9:00 a.m. – 10:58 a.m.; and January 29, 2018: 6:33 p.m. – 7:15 p.m.
Mayor George Cornell, Deputy Mayor Steffen Walma and Councillors Cindy Hastings, Richard Hinton and Gibb Wishart all present December 18, 2017, and January 8 and 29, 2018. Councillor Hinton arrived at 9:20 a.m. and Councillor Hastings left at 11:33 a.m. on January 8, 2018.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

  • January 5, 2018 – The Township purchased the beachfront portion of the Surf Restaurant property for $550,000
  • February 22, 2018, 7:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. – North Simcoe Community Futures Development Corporation Breakfast Meeting re Bill 148, Brooklea Golf and Country Club
  • February 22, 2018, 2:30 – 4:30 p.m. – A Conversation on Climate Change, Midland Cultural Centre, hosted by Sustainable Severn Sound
  • March 22, 2018, 6-7 p.m. – Recreation Master Plan Open House, SpringHill Suites Marriot, 612 Applewood Crescent, Vaughan (Conference Room)
  • March 22, 2018, 7-8:30 p.m. – Official Plan Open House, SpringHill Suites Marriot, 612 Applewood Crescent, Vaughan (Conference Room)
  • March 23, 2018, 5-6:30 p.m. – Official Plan Open House, Council Chambers, Tiny Township
  • May 1, 2018 to July 27, 2018 – Nomination Period for 2018 Municipal Election

STAFF:

Tony Mintoff, Fire Chief, retired on January 31, 2018

TEEDON PIT COMMUNITY LIAISON COMMITTEE:

Council recommended that Councillor Hinton be appointed to that Committee.

Note that R.J. Burnside & Associates is scheduled to make a report at the Committee of the Whole Meeting on February 12 regarding the application for a Renewal of the Permit to Take Water for the washing of gravel in the Teedon Pit.

2018 PARKING PROGRAM:

On January 8 and 29, after considering a report about the 2017 Parking Strategy by Steve Harvey (By-law), Council decided that the 2017 boundaries, Permit Parking Hours (8 a.m. to 10 p.m.) and dates (May 15 to September 15), cost of resident parking permits and number per household remain the same for 2018, as would the fee structure for Non-Resident Parking Permits and the process for dealing with attendees of garage sales and auctions. An additional accessible parking spot is to be installed at Trew Avenue as is signage indicating that tennis court parking in the Bluewater Beach Park area is for tennis court users only. Paid and permit parking is to remain at Bluewater Beach Park. Moreover, no general changes are to be made to the Parking Program.

Staff is to report back on a number of matters.

APPOINTMENTS:

Once again, Council appointed Councillor Hasting as its representative on the Committee of Adjustment. It appointed Gail Nowak as the Township Representative on the Midland Public Library Board and Andrew Chomentowski, Marilyn Hughes, Liesje Lancia and Dick Wesselo as members of the Mayor’s Charity Golf Tournament Working Committee, with Councillor Hinton as Chair.

CLIMATE CHANGE:

After hearing a report from Sustainable Severn Sound, Council decided that Tiny Township should join the Federation of Canadian Municipalities Partners for Climate Protection Program and carry out its “five-milestone framework” within 10 years of joining the program and to report on progress at least once every two years. This involves endorsing the Government of Canada’s commitment to the Paris Agreement to limit global temperature increase to below two degrees Celsius and to pursue efforts to limit the global temperature increase to 1.4 degrees Celsius.

Details appear in the Report from the Committee of the Whole Meeting for January 29, 2018, item H) in the Complete Regular Agenda, February 12, 2018.

WYMBOLWOOD BEACH PHRAGMITES CONTROL RESEARCH SUPPORTED:

After hearing a presentation from Lynn Short about the impact her spading technique had on Phragmites in the period from 2016 to August 2017, Council agreed to supply in kind support for 2018. This includes:

  • Continued use of tools….
  • Assistance in locating volunteers.
  • New updated sign to inform the public of the research….
  • 100 paper bags to contain cut plant debris.
  • Collection of bagged stalks and thatch….
  • 2 parking passes for use at the research site….

GREENBELT EXPANSION INTO SIMCOE COUNTY:

Deputy Mayor Walma reported that the County has requested an extension of the comment period in order to schedule another planning session regarding greenbelt location in the County.

BUILDING ACTIVITY:

Building activity in Tiny continued to be vigorous in 2017. In 2016 the total construction value was $46,940,000. In 2017 the total rose to $52,799,000.

STREETLIGHT POLICY:

Council decided to accept Manager of Public Work, Tim Leitch’s recommendation, in his Report on Streetlight Policy, that Dark-Sky Initiatives be incorporated with existing practices & standards and guidelines when reviewing requests from the public for street lights.

TELECOMMUNICATION TOWERS:

Xplornet proposes to erect two towers, one at Concession Road 3 West and Crosslands Road, the other at Concession Road 19 West and Sandy Bay Road. The proposal is currently in process.

 

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Township seeks applications for board/committee positions

Posted on November 30, 2017 by Webmaster

The Township of Tiny is seeking applications for vacancies on the Police Services Board, Midland Public Library Board and Mayor’s Charity Golf Tournament Working Committee

Police Services Board:
The Township of Tiny has recently signed a Section 10 Police Services Act Contract with the Province of Ontario, and as such, the existing Community Policing Committee will be replaced by a Police Services Board with legislated responsibilities. The Township’s three-member Police Services Board will be comprised of a Member of Council, a community representative as appointed by Township Council, and a provincially appointed representative. To apply as a community or provincial representative, please follow the link below for vacancy postings and applications.
Application Deadline: December 15, 2017

Midland Public Library Board:
The Township of Tiny is currently seeking applications for a vacancy as the Township’s representative on the Midland Public Library Board. Applicants are encouraged to have an interest in the library and possess a familiarity with financial management and fundraising. Please follow the link below for the vacancy posting and application form.
Application Deadline: December 15, 2017

Mayor’s Charity Golf Tournament Working Committee:
The Township of Tiny is currently seeking applications for four vacancies in the newly appointed Mayor’s Charity Golf Tournament Working Committee, including Charities’ Liaison & On-Course Games, Recording Secretary & Community Promotions, Silent Auction Procurement, and Sponsorship & Fundraising. The Tournament benefits a number of local charities as determined by Council each year. In 2017, the Tournament raised $60,000 for 10 local charity recipients! Please follow the link below for the vacancies posting, position descriptions, and application form.
Application Deadline: December 11, 2017. 

Applications and more information about these positions can be found on the Township’s website here.

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Report on Council: November 15th and 27th, 2017

Posted on November 27, 2017 by Webmaster

REPORT ON COUNCIL

November 15 and 27, 2017
Committee of the Whole Meetings: November 15, 2017: 9:00 a.m. – 12:47 p.m.; and November 27, 2017: 9:00 a.m. – 3:47 p.m.
Regular Meetings of Council: Nov 15, 2017: 2:00 p.m. – 2:19 p.m.; and November 27, 2017: 6:08 p.m. – 6:18 p.m.
Mayor George Cornell, Deputy Mayor Steffen Walma and Councillors Cindy Hastings and Gibb Wishart present both days. Richard Hinton absent from noon on on the 15th and all day on the 27th.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Ridgeline hills located on Concession 8 West, Concession 15 West, and Concession 17 West will be closed throughout the winter
December 18, Regular Meeting of Council at 9 a.m. followed by Budget meeting (not the 11th as previously announced)
February 5, 2018, 9 a.m., 2018 Budget meeting, Council Chambers (replacing the previously announced January 22, 2018 meeting)

COUNTY BUDGET INCREASE:
Mayor Cornell noted that the 2018 County budget tax increase is recommended to be 1.04%.

SHARE THE ROAD SIGNAGE APPROVED FOR CHAMPLAIN ROAD:
This entails the installation of 15 signs between the Penetanguishene town line and Kettles Beach as a pilot project to gauge the effectiveness of this approach prior to expanding the program to all identified routes. The anticipated cost is $1,500.00. The signage is to depict a car, bike and pedestrian indicating the shared road status.

SSEA’S TREE SEEDLING DISTRIBUTION PROJECT:
On November 15, Council approved Tiny’s participation in SSEAs 2018 Tree Seedling Distribution Project. The deadline for orders is January 19. The species available (all native) are White and Red Pine, White Spruce, White Cedar, Balsam Fir, Silver Maple, White Birch and Nannyberry (a shrub). Contact Michelle Hudolin at 705-527-5166 ext. 202 to be added to then email distribution list and for information. There is information on SSEA’s website – severnsound.ca

OFFICIAL PLAN DRAFT 1 SUMMARY AND NEXT STEPS:
Jamie Robinson of MHBC Planning provided Council with a table detailing comments received in writing and orally up to November 15 regarding Draft 1 of the OP. Four main themes were —

  • Lack of Building Control Policies
  • Changing the “Environment First” objective to “Environment Focused”’
  • Secondary Suites in the Shoreline designation
  • Population Growth and Allocation/Settlement Area Boundaries

Of the first theme, Robinson observed that the OP is not used to establish “Building Control” as there are other mechanisms available to the Township for that purpose. MHBC recommended no changes.

Regarding “Environment Focused”, MHBC again recommended no changes to the next draft, arguing that provincial and county initiatives already provide significant environmental protection.

On the other hand, MHBC agreed that secondary suites, which are meant to provide affordable housing, would probably be used for short term rentals in the shoreline area. Secondary suites will be removed for the Shoreline in the next draft, while still being permitted in rural and settlement areas.

Allocation of population growth to settlement areas (a provincial requirement) has to be delayed until the County of Simcoe completes a study of population allocation several years hence (also a provincial requirement). (Tiny is unlikely to be allocated any settlement growth or boundary expansion.) In the meantime, MHBC recommends that the County’s greenland expansion in Tiny’s shoreline area not be implemented to allow for population growth in the shoreline. Robinson speculated that greenland expansion might be exchanged for settlement growth.

MHBC anticipates having the next draft ready by the end of January and a second Open House at the end of February or in March. (Open Houses are to be held both in Tiny and, to accommodate seasonal residents, in the GTA.)  The official Public Meeting will occur two months later.

2017 PARKING PROGRAM:
A report submitted by Steven Harvey, Tiny’s Chief Municipal Law Enforcement Officer, noted that a number of minor adjustments to the previous year’s Pilot Parking Program were effective. Improved signage, for example, resulted in many fewer parking infractions. The 150 permits available to residents of neighbouring municipalities were sold out by June 21, but only a modest number of requests (15 or so) were made after that date.

Trew Avenue and the Bluewater Dunes subdivision were interrelated trouble spots that spurred much feedback and comment. Special Occasion Parking and parking for clubs that have regularly scheduled meetings also require adjustments.

Council decided to devote the morning of January 8 to issues connected with the parking Program.

 

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Report on Council: October 11th and 30th, 2017

Posted on October 30, 2017 by Webmaster

REPORT ON COUNCIL

October 11 and 30, 2017
Committee of the Whole Meetings: October 11, 2017: 9:00 a.m. – 6:12 p.m.; and October 30, 2017: 9:00 a.m. – 1:55 p.m.
Regular Meetings of Council: October 11, 2017: 7:00 p.m. – 7:24 p.m.; and October 30, 2017: 6:08 p.m. – 6:52 p.m.
Mayor George Cornell, Deputy Mayor Steffen Walma and Councillors Cindy Hastings, Richard Hinton and Gibb Wishart all present on October 11. Mayor Cornell absent on October 30.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

  • Fish and Bird Die Offs on the Shore: If on public property, contact Public Works for disposal; if on private property, contact the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, or double bag using rubber gloves and leave the bag in front of your house and have the Township pick it up or if on weekend, contact Township for pick up on Monday.
  • Senior Speaker Series – see below.
  • November 14, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., Recreation Master Plan Open House, Council Chambers. (For information about the Recreation Master Plan see www.tiny.ca.)
  • November 20, 9 a.m., 2018 Budget meeting, Council Chambers
  • November 25, 6-7 p.m., Tree Lighting Celebration, Municipal Office
  • December 2, 6-9 p.m., Wyevale Santa Claus Parade & Party, Wyevale United Church
  • December 11, 9 a.m., 2018 Budget meeting, Council Chambers
  • February 5, 2018, 9 a.m., 2018 Budget meeting, Council Chambers (This replaces the previously announced January 22, 2018 Budget meeting.)

EMERGENCY ACCESS TO PRIVATE ROADS:
Residents on private roads would do well to read Jim McIntosh’s report regarding Private and Unassumed Roads, OBCA [Ontario Building Code Act] and OFC [Ontario Fire Code] Compliance Requirements/Emergency Services Access (See Committee of the Whole, October 11, section F) as background for Council’s discussion of the matter at a future Committee of the Whole Meeting. Note that the legal advice Council has been given is that the OBCA is applicable to new construction only, that the township is not required to provide service on substandard roads though it would be prudent if it were gradually to augment its supply of special equipment to navigate substandard roads in critical areas.

REGULATION OF SHORT-TERM RENTAL PROPERTIES: In 2015, after considering Planning & Development Report PD-064-15 and Clerk’s Report CR-034-15, Council directed staff to operate a zero-tolerance mandate related to short-term rental properties. This empowered By-law to issue a warning to renters upon receiving and verifying a noise complaint. Subsequent noise violations by the same renter then triggered an escalating fine structure, or, if a different renter, resulted in the owner receiving a written notice of the likelihood of being charged for permitting noise. On October 11, Council recommended that staff continue to operate a zero-tolerance mandate.

FINANCIAL SUPPORT REQUESTED FOR CULTUREL MIDLAND:
When this request was discussed on October 30, Council decided neither to supply financial support nor to be represented on the North Simcoe Culture Advisory Committee. (We note that, as in the past, this request came after key decisions had been made.)

LAFONTAINE CAMP/TRAILER PARK EXPANSION:
The Lafontaine recreational park at 240 Rue Lafontaine Road East that has been in existence since 1984 had a site plan that permitted 150 camp/trailer sites, a comfort station, an office/residence for the park manager, a swimming pool, and a ski chalet. In 2010, the township received an application to amend the site plan to allow 296 camp/trailer sites (almost double the original number), a comfort station, an office residence for the park manager, swimming pool, a ski chalet, a creation centre/comfort station/office/store, an arcade/equipment/storage building, and three permanent rental cabins. Since 2010, changes have been requested by the township and implemented: the three permanent rental cabins and one street have been removed; the number of sites for seasonal recreational vehicles, has been reduced to 279; setbacks from the provincially significant wetland at the north of the property have been instituted; township standards have been imposed on internal roads; Lafontaine Road has been widened; accessibility upgrades have been added.

SSEA REPORT RE TOWNSHIP DRINKING WATER STATUS AND RISK MANAGEMENT:
Keith Sherman of SSEA brought Council up to date on the work being done to bring township well head protection areas up to provincial standards. The work is on track to be completed by the 2020 deadline. It did not look at the impact of aggregate extraction areas (gravel pits) on private wells. A special study due to be submitted to Council soon has examined the nitrate problem in the Georgian Sands/Lafontaine area.

CROSSWALK AT CONCESSION ROAD 9 AND TINY BEACHES ROAD SOUTH: After a wide-ranging discussion, Council recommended that the painted lines of the crosswalk be removed and the signage left in place. Staff is to report on alternative safety measures and the future use of crosswalks incorporating a public engagement strategy.

SENIOR SPEAKER SERIES PRESENTATION:
After staff successfully applied for a $10,000 grant for the development of a Senior Speakers Series, the municipality hired Laura Condren as Project Coordinator to set up seven free workshops. Six of the seven are still to take place –

  • Healthy Lifestyles – Wholesome Eating & Active Living, November 15
  • Healthy Lifestyles – Self-care and Healthy Minds on November 28
  • Senior Safety and Self-Defense, January 2018 – TBD
  • Budgeting, Banking and Estate Planning – January 15, 2018
  • In-home Services – Opening Doors and Minds – February 4, 2018

–   Seniors Living in Tiny – Launch of Senior Directory, March 2, 2018

Information about place and time is available on www.tiny.ca.

INVENTORY TO BE DONE AS BASIS FOR A LOCAL CLIMATE CHANGE ACTION PLAN:
Council agreed to Sustainable Severn Sound’s request for support for the completion of a Community-Wide Greenhouse Gas Inventory.

BICYCLE/WALKING LANES:
According to Tim Leitch, Director of Public Works, the Township’s general practice is to consider the appropriateness of bike lanes when roads are reconstructed. If the municipality is granted funding to reconstruct Champlain Road to Kettle’s Beach, the project will include bike lanes. Peggy Breckenridge, who asked in a letter that a bicycle/walking lane be installed on Champlain Road, is to be informed of this initiative.

PROPOSED JOINT SPECIAL CLOSED SESSION MEETING OF THE NORTH SIMCOE COUNCILS REGARDING 2017 PROVINCIAL GROWTH PLAN DISCUSSED:
Council decided to request that the joint session be held in open session and that staff provide a public update on the matter at a future Committee of the Whole Meeting. The joint meeting is to take place on November 23 at 7 p.m. at the Midland Public Library, 320 King Street, Midland.

 

 

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Report on Council: September 11th and 25th, 2017

Posted on September 25, 2017 by Webmaster

REPORT ON COUNCIL
September 11 and 25, 2017
Committee of the Whole Meetings: September 11, 2017: 9:00 a.m. – 2:06 p.m.; and September 25, 2017: 9:02 a.m. – 2:40 p.m.
Regular Meetings of Council: September 11, 2017: 2:25 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.; and September 25, 2017: 6:08 p.m. – 7:18 p.m.
Mayor George Cornell and Councillors Cindy Hastings, Richard Hinton and Gibb Wishart all present on September 11 and 25. Deputy Mayor Steffen Walma absent September 11, present September 25.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

November 14, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., Recreation Master Plan Open House, Council Chambers

November 20, 9 a.m., 2018 Budget meeting, Council Chambers

November 25, 6-7 p.m., Tree Lighting Celebration, Municipal Office

December 11, 9 a.m., 2018 Budget meeting, Council Chambers

February 5, 2018, 9 a.m., 2018 Budget meeting, Council Chambers (This replaces the previously announced January 22, 2018 Budget meeting)

STAFF: Laura Russell, Sr. Administrative Coordinator and Sue Walton, Director of Legislative Services/Clerk both completed the Diploma in Municipal Administration. Deputy Mayor Walma completed the Masters Certificate in Municipal Leadership.

KITCHING LANE:
In response to a series of deputations regarding Kitching Lane, Council decided not to provide a garbage can there; they learned that the words “private property” had been added to the township-owned delineation signs at three other access points along the shore. Their discussion about the private property stickers at Kitching lane was thorough and thoughtful. In the end, Mayor Cornell and Councillors Hinton and Wishart felt that Public Works had the authority to emphasize the limits of township ownership by means of private property stickers, that the stickers should remain and that people who disputed private property rights should make their case in court, or check the facts at the Registry Office in Barrie, or seek legal advice. Councillor Hastings was in favour of removing the stickers on the ground that Council is responsible only for township property. Deputy Mayor Walma was absent.

STRATEGIC PLAN SCORECARD ACCEPTED:
Though somewhat inflated by repetition, the Scorecard gives a good sense of the range of projects that Council and staff have undertaken since 2015. Of particular note is the grant money that staff has managed to attract and the major planning studies undertaken. The entire “Scorecard” is available in the Agenda for the Committee of the Whole, September 11, under Staff Reports / Administration and Finance.

 

BALM BEACH PARK TO EXPAND:
On the 11th, Council revealed that it had decided to purchase the Surf Restaurant in Balm Beach for $1,050,000 with the intention of severing the beach from the building and adding it to the township park. Council is exploring options for the restaurant building. Expanding the heavily used park was a major factor in this move: acquisition of property for township shore parks is an objective in Council’s Strategic Plan. “Council was also concerned that the property might fall into the wrong hands.” The deal closes on December 6.

CONCESSION 9 WEST AND TINY BEACHES ROAD CROSSWALK:
After hearing a deputation during Committee of the Whole on September 25 from Chris Tulley (president of the Carusoe Bay Association), which questioned the need for a crosswalk at this location, Council recommended that the recently installed crosswalk be removed. During the Regular Meeting that evening, Council decided not to remove the crosswalk and to discuss the matter further at the Committee of the Whole Meeting on October 11 and in the interim to have appropriate signs installed.

SUPPORT REQUESTED FOR RESEARCH INTO GREAT LAKES WATER LEVELS:
Mary Muter and Paul Cowley of the Georgian Bay Great Lakes Foundation asked Council to support Great Lakes water levels research. The research in question is called Baird Report II and was done by W.F. Baird and Association, an internationally respected coastal consulting engineering firm. The Baird Report II looks at levels for Lakes Michigan-Huron and Erie up to 2050, and argues that the probability of low water is 85% and of high water is only 5%. This request is to be discussed during the Committee of the Whole on October 11.

ADDITION TO MUNICIPAL HERITAGE REGISTER:
On September 25, Council recommended that 400 Marshall Road be added to the Municipal Heritage Register. Four more properties are under consideration by the Heritage Advisory Committee.

 

 

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Report on Council: August 14th and 28th, 2017

Posted on August 28, 2017 by Webmaster

REPORT ON COUNCIL

August 10 and 28, 2017
Committee of the Whole Meetings: August 28, 2017: 9:00 a.m. – 3:02 p.m.
Regular Meeting of Council: August 10, 2017: 9:00 a.m. – 11:22 a.m.
Mayor George Cornell, Deputy Mayor Steffen Walma and Councillors Cindy Hastings, Richard Hinton and Gibb Wishart all present.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

  • September 14, 7-9 p.m., Town Hall Meeting, Tiny Township Community Centre
  • September 17, 9 a.m., Terry Fox Run, Perkinsfield Park
  • September 19, 6:30 p.m., Dufferin Aggregates Meeting, Wyebridge Community Centre
  • September 29, 2 p.m., CBO Park Arboretum Grand Opening
  • September 30, Official Plan Evaluation Deadline
  • September 30, Parking Program Evaluation Deadline

GREAT LAKES & ST. LAWRENCE CITIES INITIATIVE ANNUAL MEETING & CONFERENCE REPORT:
Cayley, of the Severn Sound Environmental Association, reported on the meeting of the coalition of 130 Canadian and American cities that work together to protect, restore and sustain the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River. Five municipalities represent the Severn Sound area, the Townships of Tiny and Tay as active members, the Towns of Penetanguishene and Midland and the Township of Georgian Bay as lapsed members that may be updating their membership. The Mayor of Tay, Scott Warnock, was elected to the GLSLCities Board of Directors.

The wide-ranging discussion included the need for flood plain/prone mapping, identification of areas at risk, climate change, partnerships with indigenous peoples, governmental cooperation, and formation of a local gathering of Great Lakes mayors.

Resolutions concerned coal tar sealants, aging oil pipelines and Line 5, federal restoration funding, maritime industry, a marine sanctuary in Lake Michigan, pharmaceutical and personal care product pollution, public management of water services, designation of the lakes and river as a UNESCO biosphere reserve.

 

OFFICIAL PLAN OPEN HOUSE:
At the August 25 Open House on the Township’s Official Plan Update, Kris Menzies, MHBC Planning, spoke to some 35-40 Township residents about the Update, explaining that it brings the Township’s OP into line with the County of Simcoe’s Official Plan and with the Province’s policy statements and legislation. (The draft Update is available on the township’s website at http://www.tiny.ca/Pages/Official-Plan-Review–Update.aspx.)

After Menzies’ presentation, residents were invited to make comments and ask questions. Several people zeroed in on the expanded scope for secondary residences/garden flats in the shoreline area. In allowing them, the Province thought it was finding a way to create more affordable housing, but the worry along the shore is that such secondary structures might instead become income generating accommodation aided by Airbnb and the like. Concerns were also raised about the grading and filling of lots to raise them above the 178m line.

Comments may be submitted until September 30. (FoTTSA’s assessment of the Update will appear in the fall issue of The Tiny Cottager.) The Update will then be revised to reflect residents’ comments “where necessary and appropriate”, in preparation for a Public Meeting, probably early in 2018, during and after which residents will have a second chance to comment and ask for changes.

KITCHING LANE:
On August 28, there were a number of deputations regarding the 10’ wide Kitching Lane path to the shore south of Balm Beach and the addition of private property stickers to the signage delineating the extent of township-owned property there. Members of a recently formed back lot association, the Balm Beach Community Association (representing 50 properties), raised points that had already be made in a letter to Tim Leitch, the Director of Public Works, asking when the stickers were added, why they were added, and who authorized them. The Association also asked for all relevant justifying documentation.

Leitch said that the stickers were added on July 26th, that they were installed as a result of a series of Public Works reports, and that the decision to affix them was taken by Public Works.

In some deputations, discussion wandered to garbage cans and questions about other places where township signage delineates private property. A waterfront owner spoke in support of private property delineation by the township. Following its usual policy, Council said it would make decisions about matters raised in the deputations during a subsequent meeting.

PROTECTING OUR POLLINATORS:
After applying for an Ontario 150 Partnership Program Grant, the township was awarded $147,000. With the money, Laura Baldwick was hired to be the Coordinator of a Protecting Our Pollinators Program working with four students, Nicole Scott, Zachary Maurice, Alex Vergados, and Andrew Hall. On August 28, all five spoke about the summer’s activities — field trips to gain better understanding of pollinators, outreach to the general public at all major township events, purchase of wildflower seeds, and the creation of educational displays, a biweekly newsletter, interpretive signage, wildflower gardens in township settlement areas and wildflower meadows.

The five members of Council thanked them. They had become fans of the project after seeing the group’s regular strategy meetings and activities around the township and hearing many compliments about their work. The group will be making recommendations and submitting a formal report this fall. There was talk about the possibility of continuing the work in future summers and of taking on other environmental tasks.

CONCESSION 9 CROSSWALK:
At the end of August, in response to a deputation by the Carusoe Bay Association, speed limits were lowered in the vicinity of Tiny Beaches Road South and Concession Road 9 West and crosswalk lines and signs were installed from the north side of the Concession across TBRS to the township beach access point. This is a pilot project and one that may become a model for crosswalks to other township-owned beach areas.

ADDITIONAL OFFICE PORTABLE TO BE LEASED:
Council decided to accept the recommendation of Public Works Director, Tim Leitch, to lease an office portable for five years to house his department. The move would free up a trailer for use by the Recreation Department, and that in turn would open some much-needed space in the Township Offices. No decision has yet been taken about whether to build a new Town Hall or to renovate and expand the current building.

FUNDING APPROVED FOR LAFONTAINE BEACH EQUIPMENT:
Council approved $55,080 for new accessible playground equipment and for two Bocce Ball courts at Lafontaine Beach Park. Both were recommended by the LAMP (Lafontaine Master Plan) Committee, and are to be installed this fall.

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Report on Council: July 10 and 31, 2017

Posted on July 31, 2017 by Webmaster

REPORT ON COUNCIL

July 10 and 31, 2017
Committee of the Whole Meetings: July 10, 2017: 9:00 a.m. – 5:27 p.m. p.m.; July 31, 2017: 9 a.m. – 5:21 p.m.
Regular Meetings of Council: July 10: 6:17 – 6:33; July 31, 2017: 6:00 p.m. – 6:17 p.m.
Mayor George Cornell, Deputy Mayor Steffen Walma and Councillors Cindy Hastings, Richard Hinton and Gibb Wishart all present, though Deputy Mayor Walma absented himself for several hours midday on the 31st.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

  • August 18 to 20, Farm Fresh Food Fest
  • August 25, 4:30 – 7 p.m., Official Plan Open House, Municipal Office
  • August 26, 11 a.m. -2 p.m., Fire Department Family Fun Day, Wyevale Fire Hall
  • August 26, 8-10 pm, Canada 150 Star Trail Walk, Tiny Trail
  • September 14, 7-9 p.m., Town Hall Meeting, Tiny Township Community Centre

TINY’S OFFICIAL PLAN UPDATE:
On July 10, Kris Menzies, MHBC Planning, spoke to Council about the nature of the current Township of Tiny Official Plan update. It brings the Township’s OP into line with the County of Simcoe’s Official Plan and with the Province’s policy statements and legislation but is not a thorough-going re-conceiving of the OP. Some reorganization was done. The draft Update is now available on the township’s website. See http://www.tiny.ca/Pages/Official-Plan-Review–Update.aspx.

At the Official Plan Open House in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Offices, 130 Balm Beach Road West, on August 25, 4:30 to 7 pm, Kris Menzies will make a presentation at 5 p.m. about the Update. The point of the Open House is to provide an opportunity for public comment about the Update. The Update will then be made to reflect those comments “where necessary and appropriate,” in preparation for a Public Meeting, during and after which the public has a second chance to comment and ask for changes.

PUBLIC WORKS ORGANIZATIONAL REVIEW:
On July 10, Tim Leitch, P. Eng., Director of Public Works presented an update of the Organizational Review originally presented on May 11. The goal of the exercise was “to improve efficiency while maintaining responsible cost control.” Particular Objectives were:

  • Improve morale and work satisfaction
  • Reduce reliance on outside engineering
  • Maximize resource and asset utilization
  • Improve Operational and Capital cost accuracy
  • Develop clear lines of responsibility and accountability
  • Provide superior resident service.

The review analyzed various aspects of public works – engineering, administration, parks, roads, water – looking at particular positions, responsibilities, and so on.

We note that contract employees who have worked for one or more years for the township are to be converted to fulltime employees (subject to reviews of performance) and immediately to be given the full Township compensation package. We note too that the Review anticipates the addition of a new Engineering Supervisor/Manager, an Engineer in Training, a Public Works Superintendent, and a Lead Hand – Winter. We are very interested in seeing just how cost effective the new structure will be.

MAJOR PARKS:
A definition of “Project Best” (Beach Enjoyment Strategy for Tiny), which is part of the Township’s Strategic Plan, is to be posted on the Township’s website. It relates to the management of the Township’s five major beach parks so as to facilitate public beach enjoyment while respecting neighbouring properties. It presently includes “improving beach access, dealing with public beach encroachments, the Township’s parking strategy, wayfinding, delineation of public beaches and consideration of a no smoking policy for all public beaches/parks.”

ARBORETUM:
Approximately 100 trees have been planted to date. An additional 50 trees of two species have been ordered and will be planted on the east border of CBO Park. A formal arboretum plan is to be considered during the 2018 Budget deliberations.

POLICE SERVICES BOARD:
On July 10 Council passed a by-law establishing a Police Services Board for the Township. The Board is to consist of three members. Council appointed Councillor Hinton to be its representative on the Board for the balance of the 2014-2018 term of Council.

BROADBAND GAP ANALYSIS:
On July 10 Council authorized the Township of Tiny’s participation in the Broadband Gap Analysis Study Agreement with McPhee and Associates, the North Simcoe Community Futures Development Corporation, the Town of Midland, the Town of Penetanguishene, the Township of Tay, and the Beausoleil First Nation.

DEPUTATIONS REGARDING WORDING IN STRATEGIC PLAN:
At the Committee of the Whole meeting on July 31, Nick Leblovic presented a petition and, along with seven others, requested that the wording “while respecting privately owned shoreline properties” be reinstated in the Strategic Plan. Council decided not to do so.

BUDGET MEETING DATES:
These are scheduled for November 20, 2017, December 11, 2017, and January 22, 2018.

 

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