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From: AMO CommunicationsTo: [email protected]: AMO Breaking News - AMO Support for the Syrian Refugee Crisis - Call to ActionDate: September-09-15 11:09:54 AM
September 9, 2015
AMO Support for the Syrian Refugee Crisis – Call to Action
Dear Colleagues,
Like you, I have been deeply affected by the disturbing images and stark realities of the Syrian refugee crisis. It is a situation that cries out for compassion and action.
AMO is challenging all of its member municipalities to donate at least $100 to aid in the international effort to resettle the Syrian refugees in safe countries. We hope to raise at least $40,000. This goal will help save two families and if we raise a greater amount, we can help save more families.
Donations can be made by cheque payable to Association of Municipalities of Ontario, with "Syrian Refugee Crisis" in the description field, and forwarded by Friday, October 2.
AMO will donate all of the proceeds to Lifeline Syria. This organization is seeking to resettle and integrate 1,000 Syrian refugees in Ontario over the next two years, reuniting them with their families. Lifeline Syria is a community-based initiative that will do this by helping to recruit, train, and match private refugee sponsors in Ontario with Syrian refugees approved for resettlement by the federal government. Sponsors will include organizations, individuals, or groups of individuals such as faith-based groups. The Ontario government has provided seed funding to Lifeline Syria to support its work but it is reliant on public donations to fulfill its mandate. More information about the organization and the initiative is found on the Lifeline Syria website.
I know how municipal governments in Ontario rally to help one another and their neighbours. I implore you to accept this challenge and donate to this worthy cause. It is one small way we can help ease the suffering of others through our financial contributions.
Sincerely,
Gary McNamaraPresident, Association of Municipalities of Ontario
P.S. For other ways to help, see International Organizations Seeking to Assist Syrian
Refugees.
PLEASE NOTE: AMO Breaking News will be broadcast to the member municipality’s council, administrator, and clerk. Recipients of the AMO broadcasts are free to redistribute the AMO broadcasts to other municipal staff as required. We have decided to not add other staff to these broadcast lists in order to ensure accuracy and efficiency in the management of our various broadcast lists.
DISCLAIMER: Any documents attached are final versions. AMO assumes no responsibility for any discrepancies that may have been transmitted with this electronic version. The printed versions of the documents stand as the official record.
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From: AMO CommunicationsTo: [email protected]: AMO Policy Update - Health Funding Review Report and Funding Allocation AnnouncementDate: September-08-15 4:38:24 PM
September 8, 2015
Health Funding Review Report and Funding Allocation Announcement
The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care has undertaken a review of provincial funding to public health units in Ontario. Public health services are primarily cost shared as a 75% provincial and 25% municipal responsibility with some programs 100% provincially funded. The stated purpose of the review was to look at how provincial funding to public health programs and services could be made more equitable, transparent, and accountable. A Funding Review Working Group was struck in 2010 made up of representatives from the public health sector and included an AMO representative. The Working Group’s mandate was to: investigate the current status of public health funding; advise the Ministry on a future public health funding model; and, advise the Ministry on principles that could guide the implementation of a future funding model.
The Ministry has released the Final Report of the Funding Review Working Group. The Ministry has indicated that it has accepted the report and recommendations. As a next step, a new public health funding model for mandatory programs will be implemented. Mandatory programs include those required to meet the Ontario Public Health Standards such as food safety and infectious disease control.
Further, the Ministry announced new information on how they will allocate funds this year. $11 million (or 2%) of growth funding will be distributed proportionately to the public health units that have not reached their share based on the new model. The base funding of other public health units that are currently above their model-based share for mandatory programs will not be reduced. However, it is not yet clear what impacts this will bring to these health units whose funding is basically capped. Specific provincial funding approvals for 2015 will be announced shortly.
The Ministry announcement raises concerns about the timing of the implementation of a new model within the current fiscal year. AMO will be monitoring the situation. AMO will also continue to raise the need for more public health funding. This is needed to address annual inflationary pressures as well to meet the requirements of the Ontario Public Health Standards.
In related news, the Ministry has also announced that it will be undertaking a review of the Ontario Public Health Standards starting this year. AMO will engage the Ministry about this review.
AMO Contact: Michael Jacek, Senior Advisor, E-mail: [email protected], 416.971.9856 ext. 329.
PLEASE NOTE: AMO Breaking News will be broadcast to the member municipality’s council, administrator, and clerk. Recipients of the AMO broadcasts are free to redistribute the AMO broadcasts to other municipal staff as required. We have decided to not add other staff to these broadcast lists in order to ensure accuracy and efficiency in the management of our various broadcast lists.
DISCLAIMER: Any documents attached are final versions. AMO assumes no responsibility for any discrepancies that may have been transmitted with this electronic version. The printed versions of the documents stand as the official record.
OPT-OUT: If you wish to opt-out of these email communications from AMO please click here.
From: AMO CommunicationsTo: [email protected]: AMO Watch File - September 3, 2015Date: September-03-15 10:02:00 AM
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September 3, 2015
In This Issue- Conservation Authorities Act consultation underway.- Need practical solutions for municipal risk management?- Looking for a primer on municipal asset management? - Why do municipalities need to plan?- The LAS alternative to regulated electricity rates.- Careers with Cobourg, Tay Township and Waterloo Region.
Policy Matters Opportunities for municipalities to meet with MNRF staff to discuss amendments to the Conservation Authorities Act Review are underway. As well, feedback is being sought on Wetland Conservation. Comments due October 19th and 30th respectively. (EBR postings 12-4509 and 12-4464)
AMO/LAS EventsNeed practical solutions for municipal risk management? Then join us at the 3rd annual LAS/Frank Cowan Company Risk Management Symposium, Sept 30 and Oct 1 at Casino Rama, Orillia. Municipalities are targets of litigation because they are publicly perceived as “deep pocket” defendants with unlimited resources. To control claims you must manage your risks. Learn how – register today!
Cover Your Assets is your online primer on municipal asset management. This work-at-your-own-pace online course looks at defining asset management (AM), understanding the role of Council in AM, communicating with the public and more. Log-in to the AMO online portal today and find the fundamental information you need about asset management and how assets support municipal programs and services.
Why do municipalities need to plan? Why is land use planning important? What is zoning? AMO’s online self-directed course in land use planning provides the answers to these and many other questions that members of council should know. Log-in to the AMO online portal today and become familiarized with the basics of land use planning today!
LASAs a licensed electricity retailer in Ontario, LAS is able to remove municipal accounts from high-cost RPP and Time-of-Use rates in favour of a hedge or spot market billing. Learn the benefits of each approach, and all the many others the LAS Electricity Program has to offer.
Careers Director of Parks, Recreation, Tourism & Culture - Town of Cobourg. Please forward your resume, by 4:30 p.m., September 17, 2015 to Human Resources Dept., Corporation of the Town of Cobourg, 55 King St. W., Cobourg, ON K9A 2M2. Fax: 905.372.8819, Email: [email protected].
Director of Planning & Development - Township of Tay. Please submit a detailed resume in confidence by 4:00 p.m., Friday, September 18th to: Robert Lamb, C.A.O., The Township of Tay, 450 Park Street, P.O. Box 100, Victoria Harbour, Ontario L0K 2A0. Email: [email protected].
Manager, Office of Regional Economic Development - Region of Waterloo. Please visit www.regionofwaterloo.ca for a detailed position description, and to apply online by October 2, 2015. Applications should be addressed to the attention of Rob Horne, Commissioner, Planning, Development and Legislative Services.
About AMOAMO is a non-profit organization representing almost all of Ontario's 444 municipal governments. AMO supports strong and effective municipal government in Ontario and promotes the value of municipal government as a vital and essential component of Ontario's and Canada's political system. Follow @AMOPolicy on Twitter!
AMO ContactsAMO Watch File Team, Tel: 416.971.9856Conferences/EventsPolicy and Funding ProgramsLAS Local Authority ServicesMEPCO Municipal Employer Pension Centre of OntarioOMKN Ontario Municipal Knowledge NetworkMedia Inquiries, Tel: 416.729.5425Municipal Wire, Career/Employment and Council Resolution Distributions
*Disclaimer: The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) is unable to provide any warranty regarding the accuracy or completeness of third-party submissions. Distribution of these items does not imply an endorsement of the views, information or services mentioned.
Please consider the environment before printing this.
Association of Municipalities of Ontario200 University Ave. Suite 801,Toronto ON Canada M5H 3C6
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From: AMO CommunicationsTo: [email protected]: AMO Watch File - September 10, 2015Date: September-10-15 10:01:57 AM
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September 10, 2015
In This Issue- AMO raising funds for Syrian refugee crisis.- Need practical solutions for municipal risk management?- LAS Home & Auto Insurance Program drives savings.- 2014 Financial Information Returns now available on MIDAS.- Career opportunities with Simcoe County, Greater Sudbury and Brant County.
AMO MattersAMO is challenging all of its member municipalities to donate at least $100 to aid in the international effort to resettle the Syrian refugees in safe countries. AMO implores you to accept this challenge and donate to this worthy cause. It is one small way we can help ease the suffering of others.
AMO/LAS EventsNeed practical solutions for municipal risk management? Then join us at the 3rd annual LAS/Frank Cowan Company Risk Management Symposium, Sept 30 and Oct 1 at Casino Rama, Orillia. Municipalities are targets of litigation because they are publicly perceived as “deep pocket” defendants with unlimited resources. To control claims you must manage your risks. Learn how - register today!
LASJoin the thousands of municipal staff and elected officials benefiting for lower personal insurance costs available through the LAS Home & Auto Insurance Program. Save up to 25% off regular home and auto rates. Get your free quote today and find out how much you could save!
Municipal Wire*The 2014 Financial Information Returns are now available to Municipal Information & Data Analysis System (MIDAS) users. Access is free to all Ontario municipalities, creating opportunities to share information, compare data and implement best practices. To get access, email [email protected].
Careers Economic Development Officer (3 positions) - County of Simcoe. Two positions with a sector specialist focus and project management capabilities. One position to focus on business development or marketing efforts. Please apply online by September 28, 2015. For more information please visit the County's website.
Chief Administrative Officer - City of Greater Sudbury. Please submit your resume by 4:30 p.m., Wednesday, September 30, 2015 to: Human Resources and Organizational Development Dept., c/o City of Greater Sudbury, P.O. Box 5000, Station "A", 200 Brady St., Sudbury ON P3A 5P3. Fax: 705.673.3094; Email: [email protected].
General Manager of Corporate Services - County of Brant. Please visit careers.brant.ca to apply for this
job opportunity. The application deadline is 11:59 p.m. September 30, 2015.
About AMOAMO is a non-profit organization representing almost all of Ontario's 444 municipal governments. AMO supports strong and effective municipal government in Ontario and promotes the value of municipal government as a vital and essential component of Ontario's and Canada's political system. Follow @AMOPolicy on Twitter!
AMO ContactsAMO Watch File Team, Tel: 416.971.9856Conferences/EventsPolicy and Funding ProgramsLAS Local Authority ServicesMEPCO Municipal Employer Pension Centre of OntarioOMKN Ontario Municipal Knowledge NetworkMedia Inquiries, Tel: 416.729.5425Municipal Wire, Career/Employment and Council Resolution Distributions
*Disclaimer: The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) is unable to provide any warranty regarding the accuracy or completeness of third-party submissions. Distribution of these items does not imply an endorsement of the views, information or services mentioned.
Please consider the environment before printing this.
Association of Municipalities of Ontario200 University Ave. Suite 801,Toronto ON Canada M5H 3C6
To unsubscribe, please click here
88RiversideDrive,KapuskasingONP5N1B3Tel:(705)337‐4454Fax:(705)337‐1741Email:[email protected]:www.fonom.org
Summer Newsletter 2015 2015 AMO Conference: During the AMO Conference in Niagara Falls last month, the FONOM Board met with members of Premier Wynne’s cabinet, including Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Ted McMeekin and Parliamentary Assistant, Lou Rinaldi; Minister of Northern Development and Mines, Michael Gravelle and Parliamentary Assistant, Joe Dickson; Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry, Bill Mauro; Minister of Economic Development, Employment and Infrastructure, Brad Duguid; Attorney General, Madeleine Meilleur; and Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Energy, Bob Delaney. FONOM addressed a variety of issues including the Protection of Public Participation Act and the need to amend the legislation to balance the public interest; the sustainability of industries operating in the North and the need for the Province to defend the standards by which they are guided by; the supply of physicians to the region, and the need to enhance programs in areas that face chronic shortages; input into the design of infrastructure programs within the Moving Ontario Forward – Outside the GTHA plan; and the design of the Ontario Energy Board’s new Electricity Support Program. Please see the meeting briefing note for more information. In addition to meeting with Provincial officials, the FONOM Board also met with President Dr. Michael Toth of the Ontario Medical Association (OMA) to discuss healthcare issues in the North. Northern Hospitality Suite: The Northern Hospitality Suite which was hosted by FONOM and the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association (NOMA) during the AMO Conference was attended by nearly 700 guests throughout the evening. We received endless positive feedback about the great “northern hospitality” that was had. Thank you to our members that stopped by to enjoy some delicious foods from across the North. We also extend a thank you to our partners who, without their generous support, the event would not have been possible! Next FONOM Board Meeting: The next meeting of the FONOM Board of Directors’ will take place in Little Current on September 17th.
AssociationofMunicipalitiesofOntarioAugust2015
PRESENTEDATTHE
ASSSOCIATIONOFMUNICIPALITIESOFONTARIO
August2015EmergingIssuesBill52,ProtectionofPublicParticipationAct..…………...………………………………..Page2ProtectingNorthernIndustries…...…….…………………………………………………………Page3Healthcare…………….…………….………………………………………………………………………Page5Infrastructure………………………………………………...…………………………………………..Page7Energy…………………...…………………………………………………………………………………..Page9
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Bill52,ProtectionofPublicParticipationActBill52,theProtectionofPublicParticipationAct,2014,alsoknownasanti‐SLAPP(strategiclawsuitagainstpublicparticipation)legislationwasintroducedinthehouseinDecember2014.ItisevidentthatthegovernmenthasheardtheconcernsofNorthernOntariansinregardstothisbillduringthepastseveralmonths;however,wedonotbelievethatourconcernshavebeenappropriatelyaddressed.FONOMcontinuestosupporttheintentofthelegislation;toprotectdiscussionsofpublicinterestimportanttoindividualsorsmallcommunitybasedorganizationswithlimitedresourcesthatareadvocatingagainstaprojectofeconomicvaluetoanotherstakeholder.However,weremainconcernedthatshouldthelegislationmoveforwardasitiscurrentlywritten,itwillgivegroupstheabilitytocontinuetotargetandthreatenindustriesthatourcommunitiesdependon.Wecontinuetoaskthatamendmentstothelegislationbeincludedtoaddressthevariedintereststhatcurrentlyexist.Itisimperativethatabalancedapproachtothepublic’sinterestbeimplementedtoprotectvictimsofunfairanduntrueattacksthatcauseeconomicharmandalsoensurethattherealintentofthelegislation–theprotectionofpublicparticipation–isaddressed.Thiscanbeaccomplishedbytakingawaytheabilityforsomeonetothreatenwithafrivolouslawsuittosilenceanopponent.FONOMrecommendsthattheprovincialgovernmentimplementthefollowingamendments:
Changingthelegislationsolegalactionresultingfrompublicparticipationwouldneedtobereviewedbyajudicialofficerorotherprovinciallyappointedexpert,priortobeingfiledtoensurethatnooneisforcedtodefendthemselvesagainstabaselesschargethatamountstoaSLAPPsuitinthefirstplace.
Ifthelegislationistocontinueascurrentlydesigned,FONOMsupportstargetingthebillspecificallytoapplytovolunteersandsmallcommunityorganizationswithannualbudgetsoflessthan$100,000.
FONOMrequeststhatBill52,ProtectionofPublicParticipationAct,2014beamendedtoincludetherecommendationstobalancethepublicinterest.
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ProtectingNorthernIndustry
ManycommunitieswithinNorthernOntario,dependonindustriessuchasforestryandminingtoprovideemployment.Althoughmanyarediversifyingtheireconomicbase,industrywillcontinuetobeadrivingforcebehindtheeconomyinNorthernOntarioformanyyearstocome.Theabundantlakes,rivers,andforestsarethefoundationsthatcontributetothesocialqualityoflifeformanyNorthernerswhichiswhyleaders,stakeholdersandresidentsareconcernedandfrustratedbytheenvironmentalgroupsthatsensationalizeimagesoftheenvironmentbeingdestroyed.Theydistributeandmarketimagesoflandscapesthathaveseeminglybecomedesolateandbaronasaresultofindustrialactivity.Notonlydotheyoftenneglecttodisclosethelocationthepicturewastakenfrombuttheyalsoneglecttosharethepicturesofreplantedandrejuvenatedlandscapes.Forexample,forestryoperationsinOntario,mustadheretosomeofthehigheststandardsintheworld,operatingunderstrictSustainableForestLicenses(SFLs).Responsibleforestrymanagementpracticesinvolvetheremovalofmaturetrees,replanting3treesforevery1treeremoved.ThemisconceptionthattheforestryindustryiswipingoutforestsintheregioncanbeeasilyrefutedbythefactthatforestryoperationsharvestlessthanhalfofapercentofforestsinOntarioeachyear.EnvironmentalorganizationssuchasGreenpeacecontinuetothreatenforestryoperationsinNorthernOntario.EventhoughtheyhadbeenfoundguiltybythecourtsforproducinggroundlessallegationsagainstResoluteForestProductsandforcedtoapologize,theycontinuetheirattacksandthreatenedtheircustomers.Whilewerecognizetheneedtomakeenvironmentallyconsciencedecisionsandcanappreciateenvironmentalgroupsthataregenuinelypassionateaboutpreservingtheenvironmentaroundus,wearebothtroubledandskepticalofthegroupsthattakedirectionfromoutsidethecountryanddonotunderstandlocalrealities.TheremustbeabalancethatrecognizesthatindustrialactivityneedstooccurnotonlytosustaincommunitiesinNorthernOntario,butthebroadersociety.Intheworldweliveintoday,societycouldnotfunctionifallindustrialactivityceased.Itemsthatweuseeverydaysuchaspapertowriteon,lumbertobuildwith,andtheutensilstoeatourfoodwithareallproducedasaresultofindustrialactivity.
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IndustriesinOntariooperateundersomeofthehighestandmostdevelopedstandardswithintheirrespectiveindustriesandarealsoguidedbyprovinciallegislationandregulations.Therefore,theProvincemustplayacriticalroleinprotectinganddefendingtheirownlegislationandregulationsthatindustriesmustoperatewithin.FONOMasksforyourcommitmenttoprotectanddefendindustriesthatoperateinandsustainNorthernOntario.
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HealthcareNorthernOntariofacesongoingchallengeswhenitcomestoprovidingqualityhealthcaretoitsresidents,particularlyinsmallandruralcommunities.Asidefromthedistancespatientsoftenhavetotraveltoobtaincriticalorspecialtycare,accesstoafamilyphysicianforbasichealthcareneedscanbelimited.Asyouareaware,ashortfallinphysiciansinacommunityleavesmanyresidentswithoutafamilydoctorandthereforedependentuponothermethodsofobtaininghealthcareservicessuchasutilizingemergencyroomsfornon‐emergencymatters.FONOMpreviouslyraisedtheissueoftheneedtoincreasethenumberofresidencypositionsfortheNorthernOntarioSchoolofMedicine(NOSM)totheprovincialaverageatminimum.Asyouareaware,theNorthernOntarioSchoolofMedicine(NOSM),whichwelcomeditsfirstMDstudentsin2005,hascontributedtonorthernOntario’squalityofhealthcaresignificantly.Theschoolhasdevelopedamadeinthenorthmodelofcommunity‐engagedmedicaleducationwhileaddressingcurrentandfuturehealthcareneedsforthenorth.Throughanecdotalandstatisticalevidence,itisapparentthatmanystudentsthatwereenrolledintheresidencyprogramwhohadgonetosmallercommunitiestoteachortotrainhadreturnedtheretopractice.Mostrecentdata,providedbyNOSM,demonstratesthat69percentofNOSMresidencygraduatesarepracticinginNorthernOntarioincluding22percentinremoteandruralcommunities.TheincreasedpercentagesofphysiciansremainingintheNorthispositiveandalthoughthereareanumberofresidencygraduatesthatarepracticinginremoteandruralcommunities,webelievethatnumbercouldbefurtherincreasedandwouldassistinaddressingthechronicshortageofphysicianswithinruralandremoteNorthernOntario.
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ToencouragemorephysicianstopracticeinruralandremoteNorthernOntario,webelieveincentiveprogramswouldbeasignificantbenefit.ThroughprovincialprogramsalreadyinplacesuchasHealthForceOntario’sNorthernandRuralRecruitmentandRetentionInitiative(NRRR)whichoffersfinancialincentivestoeacheligiblephysicianwhoestablishesafull‐timepracticeinaneligiblecommunityoftheprovinceoverafouryearperiod,webelievefurtherinvestmentwouldgeneratesubstantialreturns.Inaddition,manycommunitiesputforwardtheirownincentiveprogramstoencouragephysicians.Althoughhelpfulinattractingfuturephysicians,itisariskandfinancialburdentomunicipalities.FONOMbelievesthattheProvinceshouldenhancetheirprogramstoassistmunicipalitiesandeliminatesomeoftheburden.FONOMrequeststheProvincetodevelopaworkinggroupbetweentheMinistryofHealthandLong‐TermCare,NOSM,theFederationofNorthernOntarioMunicipalities(FONOM),andtheNorthwesternOntarioMunicipalAssociation(NOMA)toexamineprogramsthatwouldfacilitatetherecruitmentofphysicianstotheareaswheretheyaremostneeded.
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InfrastructureTheProvincehasbegunconsultationeffortstoseekfeedbackfromstakeholders,includingcommunities,businessesandresidentsoninfrastructureneedsandprioritiesoutsideoftheGreaterTorontoandHamiltonArea(GTHA).InputprovidedbywrittensubmissionsandroundtableconsultationmeetingsinvariouscommunitieswillbeusedbytheProvincetodesignnewinfrastructureprogramstoallocatetheremaining$11.5billionofthe$15billioncommittedtooutsidetheGTHAintheMovingOntarioForwardfund.TheportionalreadydisbursedhasbeenallocatedtotheOntarioCommunityInfrastructureFund(OCIF),transportationinfrastructurefortheRingofFire,ConnectingLinkprogram,naturalgaslineexpansionsandhighwayimprovements.FONOMhasconsistentlyadvocatedtheneedforinvestmentsintotransportationandcriticalinfrastructure.WeapplaudtheProvinceforseparatingtheinfrastructureneedswithintheGTHAfromoutsidetheregion.Asyouareaware,theneedsinNorthernOntarioinparticular,oftenvaryfromotherregionsintheProvince.InpastconsultationsinvolvinginfrastructureprogramssuchasthepreviouslytitledSmall,RuralandNorthernMunicipalInfrastructureFund,nowtheOntarioCommunityInfrastructureFund(OCIF),FONOMadvocatedforpredictableandstablefundingtoassistmunicipalitiesapplyfuturefundingtobudgetsandplanforlong‐terminfrastructureprojects.Duringthisprocess,FONOMalsoadvocatedforastructured,formula‐basedapproachratherthananapplication‐basedapproachasitwouldalignwithourrecommendationforpredictableandstablefunding.Whilewedobelievethatmunicipalitieswouldbenefitfromasetamountintheformofapercapitaallocation,wealsorecognizethatsmallermunicipalitieswillhaveinfrastructureprojectsthatcannotbeaddressedbasedonthisformula.Mostofourmembershipconsistsofmunicipalitieswithapopulationunder5,000andthusasmallnumberofstafftoundertakethesubmissionofapplications.Theapplicationprocessrequiresmunicipalitiestospendfinitefinancialresourcesandmunicipalstafftimeonapplicationsthatmayormaynotbeapproved.Thereshouldbenoadditionalapplicationsrequiredfrommunicipalitiesinordertoreceivefunding.Therefore,wewouldrecommendexpandingcurrentprogramsthatarealreadybenefitingmunicipalities.
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SignificantinvestmentsintoinfrastructureacrosstheProvinceisvitaltomovingforward.ItisevidenttheProvincerecognizestheneedforboththeinvestmentintocriticalinfrastructureaswellasthedevelopmentofaprogramthatwilladdressinfrastructureneedsoverthelong‐term.
FONOMrecommendsthattheProvinceexpandexistingprogramstobenefitcommunitiesthroughfundingallocatedintheMovingOntarioForward–OutsidetheGTHA.
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Energy
TheenergysectorinNortheasternOntario,asintherestoftheprovince,iscomposedofanumberofinterests,projectsandneedsthatvaryacrossregionsandindividualcommunities.EnsuringthattheenergysectorinOntario,andmorespecifically,NorthernOntario,isbothsustainableandaffordablecontinuestobeamajorfocusforourorganization.OntarioElectricitySupportProgramDuringaregularmeetingoftheFONOMBoardofDirectors’heldonJuly16,2015,theBoardreceivedapresentationfromtheOntarioEnergyBoard(OEB)inregardstothenewOntarioElectricitySupportProgram(OESP)whichwillbeimplementedforJanuary1,2016.TheOESPisanongoing,on‐billrateassistanceprogramforlow‐incomeelectricitycustomersandwillbefundedthroughaprovincialcharge.TheBoardraisedconcernswithboththedesignoftheprogramandtheimpactsthatitwillhave.Intermsofthedesignandadministrationoftheprogram,eligibleparticipantswouldbeabletoapplyeitheronlineorthroughsocialagenciessuchastheUnitedWayandtheSalvationArmyassuggestedbytheOEB.However,therearealimitednumberofthesesocialagenciesinNorthernOntarioandtheyarelocatedintheurbancentres.Thiswouldleaveruralareaswithonlytheonlineapplicationandnowalk‐inoption.TheBoardfeltthattheOEBshouldincludeDistrictSocialServicesAdministrationBoards(DSSABs)andtheGreaterSudburyConsolidatedMunicipalServiceManager(CMSM)forNorthernOntario,astheyhavethestructuresinplacetoworkcloselywiththosewhowouldbeeligibletoparticipateintheprogram.ThesecondconcernwastheimpacttheprogramwouldhaveontheNorthernOntarioeconomy.Sincethefundingfortheprogramisbasedonconsumptionfromindustrial,commercialandresidentialusers,therewasworrythatNorthernerswouldbepayingadisproportionateshare.Particularlywithintheforestryandminingsector,whichareheavilyenergydependentanditcouldoffsetthebenefitsreceivedfromtheNorthernIndustrialElectricityRate(NIER)program.FONOMasksthattheMinistrydirecttheOEBtohalttheimplementationofanynewprogramuntiltheconcernsraisedcanbeaddressedappropriately.
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ElectricityRatesHighelectricityratesdiminishtheabilityforindustriesacrosstheprovincetocompete,butparticularlyinNorthernOntariowheretherearealreadystructuralchallengestocompeteeffectively.Asmentioned,resourceindustriessuchasforestryandminingareheavilydependentuponelectricitytooperate.ResearchhasshownthatelectricityratesinOntarioareamongthehighestofallprovincesinCanada.Northernmunicipalitiesandbusinessescannotaffordanyfurtherincreasesinelectricitycosts.Anyfurtherincreaseswouldresultinathreatenedeconomyandpotentiallossofbusinessactivityandinvestments.Inanefforttoaddresshighelectricityrates,FONOMasksthattheProvincereversetheirdecisiontosellaportionofHydroOnebecausetheprivatization,partialorwhole,wouldleadtohigherratesandlesscontroloverenergysector.EnergyEastProjectFONOMmaintainsitssupportforTransCanada’sEnergyEastprojectbasedontheconditionthatthehighestsafetyandenvironmentalstandardsaremet.FONOMhopesthattheMinisterofEnergywillprovideasupportiverecommendationtothePremierastransportingoilacrosstheprovincebypipelineisthesafestmethod.In2013,TransCanadaannouncedtheEnergyEastpipelineprojectwhichwouldseea4,600kmpipelinetransportapproximatelyonemillionbarrelsofoilperdayfromAlbertaandSaskatchewantotheEastcoastofCanada.ManyofthoseinoppositionofEnergyEastbelievetheprojectwillencouragethedevelopmentoftheoilsands.However,preventingthisprojectfromcomingtofruitionwillnotstopthedevelopmentoftheoilsandsandpeoplewillcontinuetodependonoilintheireverydaylives.Oilwillcontinuetobeextractedbutwillbetransportedbyeithertruckorrail.Currently,morethan200,000barrelsofoilaretransportedbyrailacrossCanadaeachday.ManyofthesetrainsaretravellingthroughtheheartofcommunitiesacrossNorthernOntarioandwithrecentderailmentsinNorthernOntario,theconcernhasonlygrown.
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Duringthe2014AnnualGeneralMeetingofFONOM,themembership,whichconsistsof110municipalitiesacrosstheNortheast,passedaresolutionofsupportoftheEnergyEastproject.FONOMrequeststheMinisterofEnergytosupportTransCanadaPipelinesEnergyEastprojectinitsrecommendationtothePremier.EnergySectorCoordinationFONOMisincreasinglyconcernedaboutthelackofcoordinationbetweentheMinistryofEnergyandtheIndependentElectricitySystemOperator(IESO)whichisnegativelyaffectingenergyoperationsinNorthernOntario.DuringtheclosureofCochranePower,whichisacogenerationplantthatusesbiomass,thecommunicationdisconnectbetweentwomajorenergystakeholdersintheProvincewasevident.TheMinistryofEnergy’sinactiononensuringthatanewcontractwiththeIESOwasdevelopedwasduetotheeffortsto“keepelectricitycostsaslowaspossible.”Yet,asCochranePowerremainsclosed,weareadvisedthatabiomass‐fueledgeneratorisbeingproposedtoproduceelectricityintheCityofHamiltonwiththeuseofsawdustsuppliedbylumbermillsinNorthernOntario.Minister,canyouprovideclarityastowhygenerationplantsinNorthernOntarioareclosing,yetnewonesareopeninginSouthernOntario?Further,othercogenerationplantsinNorthernOntarioareincreasinglyconcernedthattheywillhavetohaltoperationsaswell,leavingworkerswithoutajobandsupplierswithoutacustomer,puttingfurtherjobsatrisk.TheBeckerCogenerationPlantinHornepayneisfacingoperationalchallengesasaresultofcontractualimpedimentsthatlimittheperformanceoftheplant.Theplantwasoriginallydesignedtohaveacapacityof18.75megawatts(MW)whichwasreviewedandapprovedbytheformerOntarioPowerAuthority(OPA)andHydroOne.However,oncetheplantwasintotheconstructionphase,itwasrealizedbyHydroOnethatthetransmissionlinescouldonlyaccommodate10MWofgeneration.Itisimportanttonotethatsmallscalebiomassfueledgenerationplantswillnotbeefficientduetothehighcapitalcosts.Therefore,unlesseffortsareundertakentobetteraligntheoutputoftheplanttothatofitsoriginalintent,itwilllikelyresultinclosureaswell.Minister,weaskthateffortsbeundertakentoimprovethecoordinationandcommunicationamongprovincialenergystakeholders.
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2015AMOConference
AMOCONFERENCEMulti‐MinisterMeeting–August18,2015
ProvincialRepresentation:MinisterofNorthernDevelopmentandMines,Hon.MichaelGravelleParliamentaryAssistanttotheMinisterofNorthernDevelopmentandMines,JoeDicksonMinisterofMunicipalAffairsandHousing,Hon.TedMcMeekinParliamentaryAssistanttotheMinisterofMunicipalAffairsandHousing,LouRinaldiMinisterofNaturalResourcesandForestry,Hon.BillMauroMinisterofEconomicDevelopment,EmploymentandInfrastructure,Hon.BradDuguidAttorneyGeneral,Hon.MadeleineMeilleurParliamentaryAssistanttotheMinisterofEnergy,BobDelaney
Bill52,ProtectionofPublicParticipationActFONOM’sposition:Amendthelegislationtoincludethefollowing:
Changingthelegislationsolegalactionresultingfrompublicparticipationwouldneedtobereviewedbyajudicialofficerorotherprovinciallyappointedexpert,priortobeingfiledtoensurethatnooneisforcedtodefendthemselvesagainstabaselesschargethatamountstoaSLAPPsuitinthefirstplace.
Ifthelegislationistocontinueascurrentlydesigned,FONOMsupportstargetingthebillspecificallytoapplytovolunteersandsmallcommunityorganizationswithannualbudgetsoflessthan$100,000.
Province’sresponse:Tothefirstrecommendation,theAttorneyGeneralhighlightedthatthelegislationincludesaprovisiontoseeifthereismeritbeforegoingthroughtheprocessandthatthereisatimeframeof60days.
Tothesecondrecommendation,theAttorneyGeneralraisedconcernsofrequiringthatannualbudgetsmustbelessthan$100,000aslegalfeescanrisequickly.
TheMinistercommittedtocontinuingtoworkwithFONOMtoaddressoutstandingconcerns.
ProtectingNorthernIndustriesFONOM’sposition:IndustriesinOntariooperateundersomeofthehighestandmostdevelopedstandardswithintheirrespectiveindustriesandarealsoguidedbyprovinciallegislationandregulations.Therefore,theProvincemustplayacriticalroleinprotectinganddefendingtheirownlegislationandregulationsthatindustriesmustoperatewithin.Province’sresponse:TheProvincestatedtheircommitmenttodefendingindustriesandtheiroperationsandhighlightedacoupleexamplesofwheretheywereabletodemonstratethis.TheMinistryofNaturalResourcesandForestrywillcontinuetoworkwithstakeholdersonthisissue.
HealthcareFONOM’sposition:FONOMrequestedtheProvincetodevelopaworkinggroupbetweentheMinistryofHealthandLong‐TermCare,NOSM,theFederationofNorthernOntarioMunicipalities(FONOM),andtheNorthwesternOntarioMunicipalAssociation(NOMA)toexamineprogramsthatwouldfacilitatetherecruitmentofphysicianstotheareaswheretheyaremostneeded.Province’sresponse:OthermembersofCabinetlistenedtoourconcerns.Unfortunately,theMinisterofHealthandLong‐TermCarewasunabletoattendsoFONOMwillfollowupdirectlywiththeMinister.
InfrastructureFONOM’sposition:FONOMrecommendsthattheProvinceexpandexistingprogramstobenefitcommunitiesthroughfundingallocatedintheMovingOntarioForward–OutsidetheGTHA.Itisimportanttocontinuewithprogramsthataremeetingtheneedsofmunicipalitiesandasnottoimposeadministrativeburdensthroughnewapplicationprocesses.Province’sresponse:DiscussedtheOntarioCommunityInfrastructurePlanandthatitwillbemovingtowardsa100percentformulabasedallocationascriticalinfrastructureprojectsarebeingaddressed.Alsohighlightedthatconsultationsaretakingplacetoobtainfeedbackonprogramstodistributetheremaining$11.5billionofthe$15billionMovingOntarioForward–OutsidetheGTHAfund.
EnergyOntarioElectricitySupportProgram(administeredbytheOntarioEnergyBoard)FONOM’sposition:FONOMraisedconcernswithboththedesignoftheprogramandtheimpactsthatitwillhaveonNortherners.Thedesignoftheprogramdoesn’ttakeintoconsiderationthatmostareasofNorthernOntariodonothaveaccesstosocialagenciessuchastheUnitedWayandtheSalvationArmytofacilitateprogramintakeforthosethatchoosenottoutilizetheonlineoption.FONOMrecommendedthattheOEBshouldincludeDistrictSocialServicesAdministrationBoards(DSSABs).Additionally,FONOMraisedconcernswiththepotentialimpacttheprogramwouldhaveontheNorthernOntarioeconomy.Sincethefundingfortheprogramisbasedonenergyconsumptionfromindustrial,commercialandresidentialusers,therewasworrythatNorthernerswouldbeaddingtotheiralreadyhighenergycosts.Particularlywithintheforestryandminingsector,whichareheavilyenergydependent,itcouldoffsetthebenefitsreceivedfromtheNorthernIndustrialElectricityRate(NIER)program.AstheprogramisplannedtobeimplementedforJanuary1,2016,FONOMasksthattheMinistrydirecttheOEBtohaltimplementationuntiltheconcernsraisedcanbeaddressedappropriately.
Province’sresponse:HighlightedthattheOEBwasdirectedbytheMinistryofEnergytocreateaprogramthatwouldhelptoprovideelectricitybillreliefforlow‐incomefamilies.Dialoguewithstakeholderswillbecontinuedtofinetunetheprogramandwillensuretoaddressadverseimpactsthattheprogrammayunintentionallycreate.ElectricityRates/HydroOneFONOM’sposition:OntariohasamongstthehighestelectricitycostsofalltheprovincesinCanada.Northernmunicipalitiesandbusinessescannotaffordanyfurtherincreasestotheiralreadyhighelectricitycosts.FONOMrequestedthattheProvincereversetheirdecisiontosellaportionofHydroOnebecausetheprivatization,partialorwhole,wouldleadtohigherratesandlesscontroloverenergysector.Province’sresponse:ElectricityrateshavefallenasaresultoftheProvinceandindustryinvestmentsandefforts.TheProvincecontinuestostandbytheirpositiontosellaportionofHydroOneasitisbelievedthatitwillcreateamoreefficientsystemandarguedthatitwillnotresultinincreasedpricesorlesscontrol.ParliamentaryAssistant,BobDelaneyhighlightedanumberofcontrolsinplacesuchasnosingleshareholderorgroupofshareholderswouldbepermittedtoownmorethan10percent.EnergyEastProjectFONOM’sposition:FONOMmaintainsitssupportforTransCanada’sEnergyEastprojectbasedontheconditionthatthehighestsafetyandenvironmentalstandardsaremet.FONOMrequeststhattheMinisterofEnergyprovideasupportiverecommendationoftheprojecttothePremierastransportingoilacrosstheprovincebypipelineisthesafestmethod.Province’sresponse:TheProvincerecognizedtheconcernsraisedthattransportingbyrailandtruckposesrisksandwillactasanIntervenorintheNationalEnergyBoardhearingstoensurethatthebestinterestofOntariansisheard.
88RiversideDrive,Kapuskasing,ONP5N1B3Tel:(705)337‐4454Fax:(705)337‐1741Email:[email protected]:www.fonom.org
Forimmediaterelease:
ResidencyPositionsIncreaseinNorthernOntarioSeptember 15, 2015 – Kapuskasing, ON ‐ The Federation of Northern OntarioMunicipalities (FONOM) is pleased that the Ministry of Health and Long‐Term Care(MOHLTC)hasconfirmedanincreaseoffiveofresidencypositionsinNorthernOntariofor2016.TheNorthernOntarioSchoolofMedicine(NOSM)hasbeeninstrumentalinaddressingthecontinuedchallengesofprovidingqualityhealthcareintheregionbydevelopingamadeintheNorthmodelofcommunity‐engagedmedicaleducation.“ResearchhasshownthatstudentswhostudyandtrainatNOSMarestayingintheNorthtopractice,”saysMayorAlanSpacekofKapuskasingandPresidentofFONOM.“TheimpactthatNOSMhashadonNorthernOntariowithinthelasttenyearsistrulysignificant,”continuedSpacek.FONOMhadpreviouslyadvocatedforan increasetothenumberofresidencypositionsatNOSMtoensurethattheregioncontinuestobesuppliedwithphysicians.Havinganadequatenumberofresidencypositionshasbeenproventohelptrainandrecruitfuturehealthcareprovidersintheregion.“WeappreciatethattheprovinceiscommittedtoincreasingthenumberofpositionsintheNorth,” said Spacek. “Creating opportunities for graduates in the region is an importantaspectofincreasingaccesstoprimaryhealthcareforNortherners.”“FiveadditionalresidencyspotsintheNorthernOntarioSchoolofMedicinewillmakeabigdifference in improving access to care in Northern Ontario. It also demonstrates ourcommitmenttohelpregionswithahighneedfordoctorsandmakeevidence‐baseddecisionsinhealthcareplanning,”statedDr.EricHoskins,MinisterofHealthandLong‐TermCare.FONOM will continue to work with NOSM to meet the needs of our underservicedcommunitiesinNorthernOntario.
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ForMoreInformation:MayorAlanSpacekPresidentofFONOM7053350001
H.O.M.E Network
Homelessness Objectives Maximizing Efforts
You are invited to join our H.O.M.E Network Meeting
Review of Terms of Reference
Review Long Term Affordable Housing Strategy
Update Report
Review annual 10 year Housing and Homelessness
Plan report
Update: Investments In Affordable Housing
Where: Parry Sound District Social Services Administration Board: 1 Beechwood Drive, Parry Sound
Killbear Board Room
When: Wednesday, October 14
10:00am-12:00pm
R.S.V.P: [email protected] or (705) 746-7777 ext. 286
No later than Friday, October 09, 2015
EDC Minutes July 2, 2015 Corrected
Present; Henry Beier, Greg Godbeer, Mackenzie Taylor, Dave Downing, Debbie McMurray, Mike Kekkonen, Wave Weir, John Cole
Absent; Peter Brewster
1. Minutes of June 2, 2015 to be corrected and re submit for approval 2. Water Access Points be added to the agenda 3. No declarations of pecuniary conflict. 4. Visitors; Bonnie Beier, Debbie Zulak, Peter Hopkins, Phil Boyd 5. Correspondence, Condolences and words of praise for past member Doug Webber, a card was
circulated. 6. Reports
Ombudsman- nothing received Council resolution 15-249- Welcome Henry Beier Market- discussed a communication gap around advertising, Mackenzie gave Jane’s report. Market going well. The rec committee fishing day was a success. Grounds have been dealt with. Market manager report to be forwarded to EDC. Pioneer School- D. Downing discussed possible new cooking course “Let’s Cook the Liquor Store Book” Smart-expect announcement tomorrow re; funding and formation of by laws 150 Report- Mike discussed program, goal is to host a public forum to present and gather ideas.
7. Unfinished Business Active Living Fair and Trade show- planning meeting July 9th, 6pm. All welcome 8-80 Considerations- walkabout recommended 18 benches throughout the township, report to be circulated. MLCA Poll- Discussed possibilities and format with Phil Boyd. Minerva Park- Gord and John have been researching the files. Gord presented report. Strategic Plan- John presented the past PowerPoint report and templates for each of the suggested projects. Asked for everyone to add input to templates filling in areas that may have been missed that need to be included. By August 1. Meeting @ Council- a date was set for Thursday October 8 at 6;30 pm in the chamber. Notice to be sent out to all committees when they meet again in the fall and to council and for staff.
8. New Business Councils one year action plan has been circulated Water Access points- 10 people given the bill that 40 people are to share. Enquiry to be made of clerks office. Gord Zulak presented the need to be clear when one is representing oneself to make sure letters state that you are “speaking on your own behalf”.
9. Motion and Notice of Motion
15-1; Moved by DebbieMcMurray, Seconded by Gord Zulak to authorize Makenzie Taylor to obtain a radio advertising package up to $800 for the market. Passed. 15-2; Moved by Henry Beier Seconded by Greg Godbeer to authorize Mackenzie Taylor to spend up to $700 promoting and meeting the costs of the Active Living and Trade Fair. Passed. 15-3; moved by Debbie McMurray, Seconded by Greg Godbeer that meeting adjourn at 8;37pm. Passed.
10. Next Meeting Thursday August 6, 2015
11. Adjournment 8:37 pm
Letter to McKellar Council
Re: Sept 3rd EDC Motion 15-7 Clarification of EDC actions and vision.
Sept. 16, 2015
The Economic Development Committee has been directed by council;
1. To advise Council on matters, issues and policies pertaining to tourism and economic development in the Township of McKellar in order to sustain and enhance the Township’s economic base.
2. To actively promote and develop alliances and partnerships between individuals, businesses, organizations and government to advance the Township’s Economic Development Strategic Plan.
3. To develop and implement programs and projects in the Township of McKellar in order to sustain and enhance the Townships economic base.
DEFINITION:
EDC has adopted the definition of Economic Development as promoting the standard of living and economic health of our community. This includes the development of human capital, critical infrastructure, regional competitiveness, environmental sustainability, social inclusion, health, safety and literacy.
Over the past few years the EDC has endeavoured to do as mandated by council, jumping off from the consultant’s report previously commissioned by council, Malone Given Parsons 2004, and studying what other communities have found successful.
The resulting ideas were formatted into a CONCEPT PAPER and in time unanimously voted on to present to council. Upon receiving it, Council put it on the website for the public to consider and respond.
After further public consultation and the resulting rewrites, the concept paper evolved into the foundation for a long term strategic plan. In keeping with McKellar’s Official Plan this addresses the objective of encouraging the expansion of commercial enterprises in the Municipality and encouraging and supporting new development, particularly commercial development.
The EDC conducted the first detailed demographic study of McKellar Township for the years 2013 and 2014. Ongoing programing was the McKellar Farm Producers’ Market, the Pioneer College, the annual Active Living Fair and printing of the McKellar Business and Community directory 2013/14 and 2015/16.
The philosophy behind the Pioneer College was always intended to benefit all involved, the students, the teacher and the community. Some classes carried other classes, but the Pioneer College Program always came out in the black, and has created multiple opportunities for financial gain in the area’s entrepreneurs. That with the Farm Market and the show cased businesses at the Active Living Fair, several local entrepreneurs have benefited, expanded their businesses and are now benefiting others by using their services.
The new council began operations in December 2014 and the EDC did a Power Point presentation in February highlighting the details of a then incomplete, but thoroughly flushed out 32 page report. The intent was to present to the new council, and enter into a discussion that would provide approval in principle for the ongoing development of the strategic plan. This is a very comprehensive project involving demographic and financial forecasts for 10 to 20 years, and needed to be considered with care.
Enclosed is a copy of that working draft from which the Power Point was taken. It elaborates on the philosophies which led to the ideas presented. The members of the EDC believed that for McKellar to stand strong there must be basic long term planning to maintain the viability of economic growth and therefore the economic independence of this township. “A community that must meet its basic needs elsewhere is not in control of its own destiny…” For various reasons businesses evolve, move, fail and start up. Without a plan in place to support the development of new businesses, eventually we will find ourselves below the critical mass required to maintain a financially healthy community.
It was felt that the time for a serious dialogue was at hand before the next steps considering financing and feasibility could be considered.
As clearly seen at the Sept. 8, 2015 council meeting all is not well and there are frustrations for all concerned.
With council moving to appoint two of their spouses to the EDC, the climate at EDC meetings has changed dramatically. Instead of working with the EDC to complete the next required steps, the two new committee members have stricken documents, firmly stated their opposition to many of the proposed projects, as well as questioned the skills, ability, and intentions of all other appointed members of the committee. With council appointing two new members with clearly opposing views to the actions of the EDC, it lead me to think that therefore council itself is in opposition to the actions of EDC, but have chosen not to come to the table to voice their concerns openly.
It is my opinion that true economic development, as stated in the current terms of reference, cannot be achieved without a commitment to make such a plan. As I do not feel that the EDC has support from the majority of council to go in this direction, I put the motion forward to suspend our meetings until we receive a clear mandate from council as to how they want us to continue. As we are already adhering to the mandate given, I felt that council either must make it clear that they in fact support that mandate, or present us with another that lays out the parameters of what they actually want an EDC to do.
I think perhaps a lack of understanding of economic development and the process to get there may be at the root of all of this turmoil. At the past council meeting it was stated that council has put on new roofs, built the rink, and renovated the township offices…. all without the input of the EDC, therefore implying that there is no need for an EDC. That is an example of the lack of understanding of basic economic development. All of these stated projects are critical to the functioning of the township, but that is the maintaining and development of infrastructure. What economic development is, relates to the betterment of the area to encourage and support private entrepreneurs. It is the creation of an environment for investment.
Investment in a community comes in many forms. We first think of financial investment where someone provides funding, but there is the investment that a local resident makes when developing a small business, there is the investment that a volunteer makes when offering their time, there is the investment that a visitor makes pausing long enough to experience a community, it is the investment all community members make in creating a home here….it goes on.
The environment for investment comes with the creation of a community gathering area, a place that is used and shared. An overall plan builds on the creation of opportunity for economic growth. We can make lists until the cows come home, but if we do not tie them together by supporting and creating the environment that enables community individuals the opportunity to be financially viable in their own community, they will be nothing more than wish lists for more stuff.
Yours Truly
John S. Wilding Cole
Chair EDC
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Working DRAFT MCKELLARS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STATEGIC PLAN PROPOSAL 2015
Table of Contents
1. DEFINITIONS and TERMS of REFERENCE
2. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
3. BACKGROUND
4. CONSIDERATIONS OF THE NEW LONG TERM ED PLAN
5. WHAT IS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
6. VISION
7. KEY OBJECTIVES
8. A SUMMARY OF SWOT ANALYSES (Strengths, Weakness’, Opportunities, Threats).
9. KEY PROJECTS IN THE NEW STRATEGIC PLAN; “DESTINATION MCKELLAR: What are
the key developments/projects of the Strategic Plan?
a) Minerva Park
b) Trails
c) Facades
d) Historic Sites
e) Creating new commercial space and development.
f) Committees of Council
g) Area Projects
10. FINANCIAL OBJECTIVES AND CONSIDERATIONS
11. DEMOGRAPH STUDY 10yr PROJECTION
12. FINANCIAL PLAN
13. TIME LINE
14. APPENDIX, REPORTS AND MEETINGS WITH CITIZENS, COMMUNITY GROUPS,
PUBLIC MEETING, EXPERTS AND STAFF AND THE REVISED ED CONCEPTUAL
PAPER.
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1. DEFINITIONS and TERMS of REFERENCE
EDC; The Economic Development Committee of the Township of McKellar made up
of volunteers from residents of the township and council representatives. The
committee advises Council on matters, issues and policies pertaining to tourism and
economic development in order to sustain and enhance the Township’s economic
base. It promotes and develops alliances and partnerships between individuals,
businesses, organizations and government to advance the Township’s Economic
Development Strategic Plan and it develops and implements programs and projects in
the Township in order to sustain and enhance the Township’s economic base.1
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT; The EDC is using the definition of Economic
Development to be “sustained concerted actions that promote the standard of living
and economic health in McKellar Township, the quantitative and qualitative changes in
the economy. Such actions involve multiple areas including development of human
capital, critical infrastructure, regional competitiveness, environmental sustainability,
social inclusion, health, safety, literacy and other initiatives.” Wikipedia
As laid out in both the Township of McKellar’s Guiding Principles and Township of
McKellar 2012-2014 Proposed Initiatives, the EDC seeks to “encourage a diversified
economy that includes agriculture, tourism, construction and home based businesses
and provides opportunities for new ventures.”
1 Terms of Reference for Economic Development Committee.
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2. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The EDC has requested and received input from various individuals2 and groups of
stakeholders in our community. To date, the EDC has hosted public meetings with
farmers3, tourist operators4, businesses5, volunteer associations6, open public meeting
August 28th 2013 and staff. The EDC has revised the original draft of this paper to
reflect the findings reflected in these informal sessions.
3. BACKGROUND
The Municipality, founded in 1873, is made up of three communities: McKellar,
Broadbent and Hurdville. It is a safe, rural, year-round or seasonal paradise with over
fifteen lakes and a population that reaches over four thousand when including seasonal
residents.
McKellar has a storied historical and cultural legacy, as well as lasting natural
beauty. The Township of McKellar is dominated by Lake Manitouwabing and this very
presence speaks to both the natural beauty and unique historical legacy. The lake in its
modern form is a product of flooding incurred by those first settlers to the area who
established themselves through logging and farming. This connection with a settler
past is but one aspect of the McKellar identity.
Looking to the location of McKellar, there is strength in the situation of the
community with Highway 124 serving as a major artery through the community linking
two major traffic corridors from the south (highways 11 and 400). This puts McKellar
within reasonable time travel from the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and most of
Southern Ontario.7 This proximity to the GTA contributes to the success of area tourism
businesses as well as encouraging seasonal residents to purchase properties in the
area.
2 Letters from individuals and the Manitouwabing Lake Association. 3 EDC Meeting of February 6, 2013. 4 EDC Meeting of March 6, 2013. 5 EDC Meeting of May 1, 2013. 6 EDC Meeting of April 2, 2013.
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The web of roads that lead outward from those that circle Lake Manitouwabing
provide multiple routes of access to our community. The continued servicing of these
roads is imperative in McKellar continuing to be a place both accessible and enjoyable.
This community draws vendors in to take part in the McKellar Market and the
patrons who wish to support this venture. The McKellar Pioneer College continues to
provide courses and education, which include heritage and natural themes, reinforcing
the McKellar identity in the process. The Evelyn Watkins Moore Heritage Room serves
as both a showroom of heritage artifacts and an archive of these historically significant
objects. In a community with such continuous ties to its past, the long history and
continued success of the annual McKellar Agricultural Fair is of major importance to the
identity of the community. The Recreation Committee’s organized sports programs
have met with great success and continue to give community members valuable
experiences for negligible cost. The building of the Balsam Trail is but another asset to
the community and will play an increasingly important role in a society that is being
called upon to be more health conscious and ecologically aware. A debt free
community, we boast excellent community facilities, a championship golf course, boat
ramps, beaches, miles of groomed snow mobile trails, post office, walking trails, parks,
residential camps and a variety of accommodation, service and tourism
businesses……….
The hamlets of Broadbent and Hurdville have active community programs inviting
citizens to participate in year round activities from card playing and community dinners
to ball tournaments and winter carnivals.
The Township of McKellar has a core group of businesses that provide goods and
service to McKellar and the surrounding area. The township directory gives ample
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evidence of the many businesses based here. These businesses include small farms,
basic services, contractors, light manufacturers, professional services, cottage
industries, tourism operators and recreational services. Yet, there are gaps in the
services provided. Variety in entertainment, shopping, cuisine, groceries and leisure is
an area that could be cultivated for both visitors and residents, adding opportunities for
added services and local employment.
7 240 km (approximately 2 hours, 15 minutes).
4. CONSIDERATIONS OF THE NEW LONG TERM ED PLAN:
The following was considered in the development of a long term economic
development plan:
I. The 2004 ED Strategic Plan- Parsons- reviewed the consultant`s report on which we
can build a new long term economic development plan that will meet the current needs,
restore the past amenities and create new opportunities
II. Current Council Vision and Directions 2012-2014- `Respect the Past, Embrace the
Future
III. Current ED directions`: 2012-2014: develop a new long term strategic economic
development plan
IV. The new Official Plan-to be approved in 2014-5: section 5.0-that will guide our land use
in the future
V. Area projects from REDAC- Have looked at area projects; Smart Community,
Marketing, Biking, Food Network, that will have an impact on McKellar
VI. Government reports: To ensure that the plan includes aspects of Asset Management
Plan, Energy Audit, Infrastructure projects, and compliance with the Accessibility Act
requirements by 2025
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VII. Completed a SWOT analysis of the Township- strengths, weaknesses, opportunities
and threats
VIII. Ongoing investigation of all Grant and Financial possibilities and budgetary impacts
IX. Municipal Planning and Financial Tools for Economic Development paper- MMAH
X. McKellar’s 150th Anniversary 2023-a target and timeline to celebrate a new Strategic
plan
XI. Land base data for future development: -have met with staff, MPAC and the Planner
and analysed McKellar properties to determine the capacity of the lakes and the
possibility for planned growth and land development over time and determined that
there is room to grow in a gradual and sustainable way. This would be implemented
over time, and as funding becomes available.
XII. Have spent two years discussing The Conceptual Paper with interested groups,
businesses , community organizations, staff, farmers, tourism operators, lake
association, two camps, The Ridge and the public at large through e- mails and a
public meeting, from which many positive comments were incorporated in the revised
version.
XIII. Provincial workshop Ontario by Bike
XIV. International conference- 8-80 Communities, planning for safety and mobile
accessibility for all members of the community from 8-80 years old.
XV. Provincial Workshop on Developing A Food Charter
5. WHAT IS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Economic Development is about retention and growth of the community. It is about
people. It is about job opportunities. It is about improving a municipality’s financial
base. It is about building a positive sense of community and quality of life. It is about
utilizing the strengths of the community for improvement. It is about improving services
and it is about becoming a destination attracting people to the community. It is about
working together to embrace the future.
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MMAH: “Municipal Planning and Financial Tools for Economic Development quotes;”
• “The purpose of local economic development is to build up the economic capacity of a
local area to improve its economic future and the quality of life for all. It is the process
by which the public, businesses and non-governmental sector partners work together
collectively to create better conditions for economic growth and employment
generation”.
• “The long term intent is to add value to the community - socially, culturally,
environmentally and economically - resulting in greater community distinctiveness and
identity. This allows communities to become destinations.”
• “Strong, prosperous local communities will be built by smart forward thinking councils
that have the courage to look at big issues and sometimes look at them in different
ways”
• “The way municipalities make their first impression, the way people and organizations
connect to one another and the way our choices are increasing on how and where we
live, work, shop, study and invest.”
• “Community improvement plans include means by which municipalities can provide
financial incentives. In order to achieve planning objectives that are for the broader
public good...municipalities can plan for community improvement…through
development, redevelopment, maintenance and rehabilitation. This includes the ability
to acquire, hold, clear, lease and sell land in designated areas as well as to direct and
stimulate development though grant and/ or loan programs that supports a
municipality’s community building goals”
• ‘What they have in common is a desire to meet current challenges by maximizing land,
building, infrastructure and service assets as a means of attracting and retaining
people and business.’
• ‘From a land use perspective….this allows communities to become `destinations` for
people to regroup and rethink their response to the marketplace.’
• ‘To remain competitive, sectors are continually improving performance, products,
service delivery, customer satisfaction and their bottom lines.’
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• ‘By involving different sectors, jurisdictions and levels of government, municipalities are
demonstrating that they can achieve economies of scale, can access larger pools of
capital, can gather higher level of technical expertise and can share resources,
experience, knowledge and responsibilities.’
6. VISION
The Strategic Plan will present various ways for McKellar Township to grow and
become a `DESTINATION’ while maintaining the overall vision of `Respecting the Past;
Embracing the Future’.
The plan will encourage visitors to stop and shop in McKellar. It will encourage
tourists to utilize its many amenities. It will attempt to attract new owners and new
builders to McKellar. The Plan will attempt to stimulate the on-going growth and
marketing of McKellar`s cottage industries. It will present the means to create a `HUB`
of activities to stimulate active and healthy lifestyles through trails for hiking, biking,
snowmobiling, canoeing and kayaking and ATV`s. The plan encourages people to
retire in McKellar and get involved in community life and all it has to offer. It will
encourage improvement of the environment and the lifestyles of our residents by
protecting the quality of our lakes, through a wide range of active programs and
encouraging healthy eating and food. The plan will encourage and promote local
businesses and job creation, within McKellar. As no business can flourish without a
sustaining source of customers, increased traffic in the Township will bolster existing
businesses and amenities and meet the future needs of the community. It shows a
means to improve commercial development and diversify the financial base in
McKellar.
In short, the Strategic Plan will present positive steps which will encourage people
to visit, work, play, retire, learn and stay in McKellar.
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In a few short years McKellar will celebrate its 150th anniversary. It is a huge
milestone, and presents an excellent opportunity to take stock: to look back and
celebrate, but more importantly to look forward and honour the Township slogan,
Respect the Past, Embrace the Future.
Early McKellar was a vibrant waypoint on the Great North Road, a bustling, colourful
community of stores, hotels, taverns and stabling for horses, all built to service the twin
economic booms of logging and settlement.
The white pine industry has long gone; the ‘settlers’ of the last four or five decades
have been cottagers drawn by the lure of water, woods and fresh air; plus people
choosing to make this area their permanent home.
Through it all runs the thread of long-time residents whose family names have
graced the township in that century and a half.
Residents and cottagers of today would recognize the village of the 1870s and
1880s. The geography is unchanged – McKellar remains the strategic centre of a chain
of classic Canadian Shield lakes. What is now Minerva Park has long been the pivotal
site of the village of McKellar.
One major difference today would be the shortage of the services and amenities
that made McKellar of the 1880s such a vital centre.
Stabling and hay may not be necessary any more, but fuel and a restaurant, for
residents, cottagers and travellers alike, are sorely needed.
On the principle ’If we build it, they will come’, improvements would enhance daily
life; encourage visitors to linger and newcomers to build homes or open businesses,
growing the tax base and township revenues.
Far from simply tearing up the streets and changing the fabric of our community, the
EDC feels it is imperative to move slowly, maintaining the image of the small rural
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towns that are called to mind when thinking of McKellar. It is imperative that change
is not made just for change sake, but to increase local job and business
opportunities, without destroying the beauty and the atmosphere which makes
McKellar Township what it is.
Any development must be long considered and sustainable. Sustainable
being defined as; development that enables a community to support itself and
development that provides opportunities for youth to stay and current business
to flourish. Sustainable development enhances what we have, does not
diminish it financially, socially, aesthetically, or environmentally, and respects
the individuals that must live with it.
7. KEY OBJECTIVES
To work and collaborate with council, various community members, staff, area
partners and government agencies to achieve the following objectives:
• Environment: To protect the quality of our lakes and the beauty of our environment.
: To be a corporate example of environmentally responsible practices.
• Financial: To improve and diversify the economic base for future development
• Employment: To stimulate employment opportunities for our residents, especially our
youth
• Sense of Community: To build on our strengths to improve our positive, welcoming
sense of community
• Services and Amenities: To restore lost services and amenities, improve our current
ones and create the opportunities for new ones to develop
• Active and Healthy Lifestyle: To create a community that supports a positive lifestyle
through active living, healthy eating, and by providing a safe community environment
embracing the 8-80 mandate
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• Aesthetics: To find ways to enhance the beauty and attractiveness of the Township
grounds, facilities and business facades, in order to attract, retain and promote
McKellar as a destination
• Marketing: To develop a `McKellar Brand, improve signage, enhance the website and
other means to support the destination concept
• Processes: To review and revise municipal processes ( By Laws, Building Codes) that
will enhance future development
• Recognition: To develop a positive image of McKellar as a welcoming, supportive, safe,
forward thinking, fiscally responsible, attractive, healthy, active and collaborative
community
• Agriculture: to support existing farm enterprise and provide services that encourages
expansion or new farming initiatives.
8. A SUMMARY OF SWOT ANALYSES (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats)
A. STRENGTHS: Assets of McKellar to build on
We have a fiscally sound and safe community. A natural paradise of over 15 lakes,
excellent facilities, programs, special events and community groups, excellent golf
course and camps, hiking trail and miles of snowmobile trails, Farmers’ market and
Pioneer college, experienced staff, close proximity to major highways and within 2
hours of major urban centres and within 20 minutes to Parry Sound and their
amenities-hospital, banks, OPP, restaurants, stores and schools, historic past and
heritage room, many cottage artists and artisan industries, proximity to Biosphere
reserve, Georgian bay and provincial parks, no chemical industry or toxic industrial
farming, grocery and liquor store and excellent volunteer fire department and improving
road infrastructure, a strong sense of being a rural community and respect for the
past.……………..
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B. WEAKNESSSES: Issues, concerns that detract new economic development
No year around family restaurant, gas station, unattractive entrances and downtown
area, lack of a long term plan and jobs, aging population, lack of commercial space for
private development, reliance on seasonal economy, no natural gas for heating, lake
development capacity, fear of change, deterioration of Firehall#1, inaccessibility of
public works facilities, reduction in government grants, no connectivity to three villages,
some concern between seasonal and permanent residents, aging staff and a lack of a
succession plan, lack of a long term financial plan, loss of MCA, The Inn at Manitou,
limited number of places to stay, loss of historic buildings and barns……..
C. OPPORTUNITIES: New possibilities that would attract people and future development
• Development of a long term plan to coincide with our 150 Anniversary in 2023,to
create a zone for development of private commercial space, i.e. a restaurant, gas
station, artisan shops and other amenities.
• To protect the quality of lakes and beauty of our surroundings for eco- tourism,
biking, canoeing, hiking, snowmobiling
Work with other area municipalities to bring fibre for high speed technology and
marketing for McKellar
• Develop a showcase for cottage industries, create a McKellar Brand.
• Redevelopment of a new, accessible, energy efficient, more cost effective and
modernized combined Fire Hall #1 and Public Works facility.
• Development of an active, lifestyle and healthy food and eating community.
• Continue to improve all roads as an economic multiplier.
• To maintain and restore historic buildings that have not been lost.
• To connect three existing hamlets with trails.
D. THREATS: Things that could undermine a future Strategic Plan
• New OPP costs, tightening of the economy, reduction of government grants, cost of
projects versus return on investment, lack of support or understanding of change,
fear, environmental brown fields, lack of land for development….
Comment [P1]:
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9. KEY PROJECTS IN THE NEW STRATEGIC PLAN; “DESTINATION MCKELLAR”
a) IMPROVEMENTS TO MINERVA PARK.
Minerva Park, as well as the scenic entrance to the village of McKellar,
provides a beautiful park setting for picnics and rest stops. It houses the
McKellar Farm Producers’ Market, the Remembrance Day ceremonies around
the permanent epitaph, as well as private gatherings and functions. It is the
launch site for ice fishers and snowmobilers, as well as a docking place for
cottagers doing business in the village. It is a popular picnic site and provides a
playground for children. Beyond it, can be seen the quaint and picturesque
houses of the village.
An historic site, which was home to the village sawmill, this area lends itself
to being a year round stopping place and focal point to gather information about
the township. All considerations for Minerva Park need to consider the
aesthetics of an historic theme, building on and recalling the vibrant buildings
and businesses of McKellar’s past.
As one of the more doable starting points in the full Strategic Plan, begining
here with less costly projects, will still make a high impact on the village
entrance and kick start the longer term projects.
Several things can make the site a higher functioning site for permanent and
seasonal residents as well as visitors.
The services in Minerva Park can be enhanced to create a hub for many
activities. When keeping in mind the concept of community development around
the 8-80 concept, where community centers are designed for safety and
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mobility of those eight and eighty years old, we have a prime central location
that lends itself to a higher functioning village core.
1. A year round toilet facility. Built with an historic looking façade to
commemorate the park’s significant past, this would serve the needs of
picnickers, the Farmers Market, special events, and winter ice fishers and
snowmobilers. The in-town businesses are constantly directing people to this
site for the washrooms. A permanent structure would be infinitely more
aesthetically pleasing than the present temporary port-a-potties. Signage in
the village should be installed directing people to the public washrooms of the
village.
2. An information kiosk is needed, presenting information on businesses,
services, and events in the township and area. Fitted with maps of our trails;
walking, historic, canoeing, biking, ATV, and snowmobiling, this would
become a jumping off point for many excursions. The park will become a
comprehensive “go to” spot for all passersby, which will be a benefit all area
businesses. The longer an individual stays in one spot, the more services
they will use. A beautiful picnic site, with facilities, and a short stroll to the
down town, with information to keep people abreast of what we have to offer,
is certainly a draw.
3. A permanent picnic pavilion. The structure will be simple, picturesque, in
keeping with our historic theme for the park, and can be utilized by
picnickers, year round, for protection from the sun, wind, rain, and snow.
Properly designed, it could easily be used for outdoor weddings, music
festivals, fishing derbies, etc. It would offer rain protection to vendors on
market days. Positioned in such a way, this structure would not infringe on
the park use itself or any views of the water for residents across the highway.
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4. A period band shell on the point, amongst the trees, with a lovely arch and
garden. This would make the site suitable for outdoor weddings, photo
opportunities, reunions, outdoor concerts, etc., as well as music and the
present ongoing events.
5. The completion of the walking bridge from the park to the village. This joins
the village into a loop walking trail. It provides a connection to the park for the
village residents that had historically been in place. It also provides a safe
route for the boaters that dock in the park to walk to the stores, chip wagon,
etc., rather than walking along the highway. Families using the beach would
also have easy access to the washrooms and a safe picnic and play area
away from the road.
A new method of securing the bridge to the embankments with metal augers
has been suggested which may prove to be much less costly and less
invasive than traditional concrete pylons and foundations.
Community funds have been collected over the years and land expropriated.
Some permits to complete the work have been extended to 2015. This
project needs completion.
6. A boat launch. Presently the village boat launch into Lake Manitouwabing
causes bottle necks and traffic hold-ups on the roadway, and unsightly and
unsafe parking in front of private village residences. We have received users’
comments that it is need of some improvements as well. Consideration to
move the boat launch into Minerva Park has many advantages. It is safer, as
it does not block the roadway to other traffic and emergency vehicles, and
keeps pedestrians off the roadways.
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There is an environmentally protected zone at the west end of the park which
needs consideration in positioning the launch. Apparently, initial
investigations as to the appropriateness of this site for a boat launch have
been conducted. Current possibilities would have to be explored.
7. Public beach moved into the park. This keeps the children away from the
road, provides picnic sites and safe parking for caregivers and puts the
beach together with the playground and washroom facilities. With the walking
bridge in place, there is safe and easy access from the village. Divers have
investigated the site for a beach as well as the boat launch. Apparently such
a change may be possible. Confirmations and further investigation are
needed.
8. Extra parking in the stretch of “no man’s land” along the highway. Currently
this area is not used for picnickers or special events. It could serve as extra
parking for the boat launch, overflow parking for the town and special events,
as well as providing safe winter parking for a snowmobile staging area and
ice fishers.
9. Bike Friendly Zone. According to the Ontario by Bike network, biking is
bringing millions of dollars to Ontario communities. Bikers, while easy on the
environment, spend more time in an area and use more services. Providing
for visible safe bike racks in the park, as well as in our other centers,
washroom facilities and drinking water encourages this traffic to stop. We are
already on the local Active Transportation Map with several bike loops going
through McKellar. With a place to park, lock a bike and get refreshment, this
would encourage McKellar to be a starting community. Continuous lobbying
and support for the efforts to ensure wide shoulders on the highway between
McKellar and Parry Sound would be a big help, and making wide shoulders
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on all of our roads a priority, needs to be emphasized. As well as bikes, this
enables safe walking and hiking for all area residents, eight to eighty.
10. Park Benches: encourage people to sit and spend time, as well as
indicating welcome and a respect for individual traffic. As well as in Minerva
Park overlooking the lake, there should be permanent benches at all public
beaches, boat launches, community commons, and points of interest. Park
benches should also be put under the eaves at the community center. Often
residents are perched on the concrete ledge waiting for a meeting or event.
11. Plantings around the parking lot, shorelines, and boat launch, as possible,
need to be considered. Using local shrubs, bushes and trees to provide
shade and soil stability. Leave at least a 10’ margin along all shorelines, in
the entire township wherever possible. (The market vendors have noted less
problem with goose droppings since the park has not been cut to the water’s
edge). Between the proposed parking area and the road could be a juniper
barrier. The deer do not eat it; it provides cover for birds and a barrier to keep
children safe in the park. It does not grow high enough to block the view or
threaten the lines. Historically many large Black Willow trees sheltered the
shorelines in McKellar. This is a large, fast growing shade tree that provides
aesthetics, sun protection, wind breaks, and shade over the water enhancing
fish shelter zones. Trees always draw people as well as birds, insects and
small animals.
See Appendix A for renderings
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b) TRAILS, DEVELOPMENT OF A HUB OF CONNECTING VILLAGES VIA TRAILS,
ROADWAYS AND WATERWAYS:
Communities around the world are creating economic independence by
developing trails, or their services to various trails. McKellar already has an
advantage in that we are on the Snow mobile trails, we are on the Active
Transportation Bike tour map, we are on navigable waters, we have beaches
and picnic areas and we have developed our first loop walking trail.
With a staging area for snowmobilers, and support services like toilets, gas,
and food, the area would draw year round users which are definitely needed in
our seasonal based community.
Our Balsam trail needs to be complete with the issue of the MTO closing one
entrance needing prompt resolution.
Multi use trails linking each village need to be developed. There are existing
road beds and historical road allowances that can be utilized. These trails would
promote transient traffic to the township where visitors could park in any village,
do a circle walk, bike, ATV, snowshoe, or cross country tour, return for lunch
and head home. Eventually a small Inn connected to the trails, as well as the
existing summer campgrounds and resorts, would provide the opportunity for
stays to be extended for a few days or an overnight.
Multi use trails also give year round residents a means to move from village
to village without using the roads.
Creating links with the other municipalities, organizations, tourism
associations and local business such as the national Rails to Trails network,
provides opportunities for the world to come through in a very gentle and non-
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threatening way. More and more people are visiting the World Wide Biosphere
Reserve and our topography and geography provides an added adventure for
ECO Tourism.
Partnering with others such as Whitesquall for canoe route information as
well as the organizations overseeing ATVs, snowmobiles, bikes, and hikers, we
could produce an active ECO Tourism guide of our area. Where to park, what
services are available, contact info. for conditions, etc. A few basic tenting
locations could be designated on the hiking, canoeing and biking trails.
See Bike Friendly Zone Section 9, Paragraph 9
To develop a plan to create multi use trails to each village, complete the Balsam
Trail, work with area municipalities to link up bicycle paths and safe roadways between
PS and McKellar, to develop nature trails on crown land, to plan numerous canoe, and
kayak routes with proper signage, portages to Parry Sound and to northern lakes and
rivers.; connecting links to area trails like Park to Park trail
Needs to be supported by amenities of proper signage, restaurants, gas station,
grocery and liquor store parking and other amenities
c) FAÇADE DEVELOPMENT AND IMPROVEMENT, Beautification and
attractiveness projects
It is not a new concept that a municipality adopts a theme to promote and
enhance the physical image of their town or district. A beautified district draws
users to the area therefore benefiting all area businesses. In beautifying a town
center, the increased traffic simply increases business, which in turn increases
traffic, which increases business…….
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Most municipalities adopt a program, similar to Parry Sound, where a
business can apply for matched funding, up to a fixed amount, to improve the
façade of their storefront. A total annual amount for the entire program is also
fixed so that it is a first come first serve application for qualified applicants.
In the case of McKellar it is recommended that applicants can apply for
matched funding up to $2,500 for paint and exterior improvements which will
give their business a more historic presentation. A maximum of four businesses
could receive funding in a year, needing a total annual budget of $10,000. A
Façade Committee of Council should be in place to develop the application,
oversee the requests and then present eligible applications to council for
consideration.
The benefits to the Township, aside from the obvious one of promoting
overall increased financial success in the area, would be increased commercial
taxes as the value of properties rise and business is encouraged to develop. All
new building developments would be encouraged to adopt the heritage theme
before building, and existing businesses to recreate that atmosphere as is
possible.
The Façade Improvement Program would work closely with the overall 8-80
development, placing of park benches, bike racks, etc.
A downtown gathering place that supports leisure and promotes the lingering
of people in town needs to be developed. McKellar is restricted by the road
allowances required by the Dept. of Highways. At present time the grassed area
at the center of town cannot be developed because of this. Putting
cobblestones, some park benches, perhaps an historic flower arbor and some
plantings, will give the area a “Village Square” feel and function, creating an
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outdoor Bistro atmosphere where people meet, eat their ice cream or chips, rest
while biking through, etc. This effectively slows down the perceived speed of the
village creating a welcoming streetscape for all residents and passersby. This
would immediately put a more “historic” look to the town, and can be used to
showcase the fact that we have a museum. Perhaps some of the larger outdoor
pieces of farm equipment or roads equipment that is being offered to the
museum could be used in the display.
A wooden structure supporting climbing roses or vines, with an historic flower
bed, and park benches shaded underneath, or a flat topped stone wall around
the outside of the arbor to sit on could be considered. The positioning of all
such structures is important. They must be attractive and welcoming and have
an historic feel. They must not infringe on the space or positive attributes of the
park or village. The point is to enhance what we have to encourage pedestrian
use, creating spaces where people want to linger. All such ideas need to be
presented to the Dept. of Highways for approval.
Extension of Tree planting program needs to be considered, wherever
possible, throughout the township.
New signage for the entrances to McKellar – Welcome to the Township of McKellar,
Vision: Respecting the Past, Embracing the Future, Logo, Total Population- 4000. One
at Boundary Road, one at V junction McDougall Road, One on Broadbent Rd near
Forbes Rd , On Blackwater Road, in McKellar, end of Balsam Road. New signs for the
three villages: McKellar, Broadbent and Hurdville- Welcome to the Village of--------------
a proud member of the Township of McKellar . Signage for township services and
facilities, i.e. the library, post office, museum…
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d) HISTORIC SITES
Each village has at least one historic site that needs to be maintained or
enhanced in order not to lose it.
McKellar;
As well as many houses and buildings which are included in the historic
walking tour program and Christmas Kitchen Tour, Minerva Park needs to be
capitalized on as the site of the historic sawmill. Artifacts, story boards, and
building design can reflect this. Refer to pavilion plans Appendix A. The
sawblade buried in the mud beneath the water could become part of the historic
decorations. The Historic Committee could be given a free hand in using the
pavilion and park for their outdoor displays. As when driving through Massey
Ontario we watch for the unique and identifying metal horse sculptures, the
entire McKellar Township can become the site for the museum. While walking
the trails, or sitting at the beach or visiting the fair… the public could be exposed
to heritage displays. These displays would call to attention our agricultural
history and our current traditional Fall Fair.
Hurdville;
The Hurdville Hall originally served as the school for both townships,
McKellar and McDougal. Due to the efforts of a small dedicated group, the
character of this site has been maintained, and with little effort can be enhanced
as the historic building that it is. With a proper well and toilet facilities this hall
can continue to function as the community center that it is. Capitalizing on the
historic significance and structure that is here, the building lends itself to “old
Time Events”. Strawberry socials, old time church picnics, kite festivals,
Valentines box dinners, family dances ……. With an all-purpose trail linking
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Hurdville to the rest of the township, walkers could have lunch in Hurdville, visit
the school, watch the dam and return to their parked cars by the end of the day.
Summer students could have the school open for walkers and bikers on the
weekends having water and old fashioned treats and local crafts available for
sale.
Broadbent;
The Church and the falls are picturesque and an historically significant
reason to walk the trails or bike to Broadbent. The church needs to be
maintained, and although no longer consecrated in the Anglican diocese, it can
still be used as a place for contemplation and community activity. An historic
interpretation center can be set up marking the community involvement in the
building, furnishing and maintaining of this church. As in churches worldwide,
people could be welcome to sit and meditate, having a drop box to collect
money for postcards, candles, etc.
Center Road/ Hurdville Road Schoolhouse;
At a crossroads, in a very visible and easily accessible location, this could
become the permanent residence of the museum. It is central in the township
which would be a benefit to all communities. It has room to expand and to use
the yard for large outdoor displays. Put on to the walking trails, it is already on
the bike trails, and a wonderful stopping place for refreshment and interest, this
would become another destination for a day loop trail in the township, and a
good place for a summer bistro business.
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e) CREATING NEW COMMERCIAL SPACE AND DEVOPMENT
The McKellar Township Roads Yard
When considering “best use “, of the roads yard facility, several things need to be
considered. First and foremost, both the roads facility and the village fire hall have
been slated to be upgraded and renovated. Council has been putting funds aside for
this eventuality for some time. As well as becoming outdated, and outgrown, the added
required government regulations for accessibility and efficiency of all public buildings
by 2025 are making the restructuring a necessity.
When this eventuality realizes itself that would be the time to consider the options of
combining the village fire hall and roads yard onto one site. This would cut down
building costs for each facility, improve efficiency and reduce long term maintenance
costs by supporting one infrastructure, and free up much needed retail space, valuable
land, and opportunities for small local entrepreneurs. With a strong independent
business community, all businesses in the area benefit as well as the local work force.
The roads yard in the village of McKellar is prime real estate overlooking, not on,
Lake Manitouwabing. The current yards building can be renovated into a family
restaurant with a patio overlooking the water and the town. It has been demonstrated
that as well as serving local citizens, summer people and their guests, if the quality is
there, people will travel to it. In our area we see people come far to eat at The Ridge,
The Swiss House, and Tanners. All are seemingly out of the way locations that are
able to maintain themselves.
A few small shops overlooking the road and the lake can provide homes for several
new opportunities; a bakery, an antique shop, a year round local crafts outlet, a fast
food outlet, a barber/hairdresser, perhaps even a day spa…… The possibilities are
limited only by the imagination. The shops, lined up with a board walk and green space
in front of them, built with an historic façade, would present a beautiful entrance to the
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village as well as expanding business opportunities and increasing the commercial tax
base in the township.
Possibilities exist for the dome itself. Removing the roof and replacing it with glass
turns it into a bright protected greenhouse and nursery.
The garage bays could hold the summer market and provide for the opportunity to
extend the season.
The entire facility could become an extended market square for people to wander,
shop, meet, tarry………
Winter parking for snowmobile staging could be right on the trail, not needing to
come through the village.
At the present time Brownfield funding is being offered by the government in order to
remove such areas from within the borders of municipalities and away from bodies of
water.
It is important that the facilities remain close to the village to maintain current levels
of protection and maintain efficiency of operations with proximity to the Township
Offices.
- Purchase new land along #124, in close proximity to current Fire hall #1 for future
development of a new combined Public Works and Fire Hall
Appendix B for rendering
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The village fire hall
As we have seen that it is slated for renewal, and if we adopt the above suggestion
to combine the two costly infrastructures, we must consider the site of the current
village fire hall. The location is in a quiet residential area, yet on a major artery. It has
grounds to provide ample parking and grounds for secure flower gardens and lawns. It
lends itself to be turned into a few small seniors’ apartments. The property could be
appropriately zoned and sold to a developer who would put in a few accessible
apartments. With the façade program in place, all new commercial development would
be built with the historic theme and neighbourhood aesthetics in mind.
The cost would be carried by private enterprise, and the township would receive
income from the sale of the site as well as the increase in commercial taxes. The
community benefits by keeping more of its elders at home, and the elders certainly
benefit. The job force benefits by supplying trades persons, grounds keepers,
housekeepers, care givers, etc. The private entrepreneur benefits by the rent received
for the unit, and any future sale. With proper zoning in place, this may have to remain a
multi-unit dwelling so that it cannot revert to a single family unit and the town loose the
only seniors’ apartment facility that it has. So, with some research and creative
thinking, the town’s small needs can be met without someone losing out or having to
pay a tax increase.
-develop an RFP for private development of the commercial space to include
identifiable commercial entities like a service station, year around family restaurant, a
bakery, an area for McKellar artisans and other needed commercial outlets.
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f) Committees of Council
Although not directly considered as committees for economic development,
all committees in the township create a quality of life that enhances all plans for
economic independence in our municipality. If people are happy, if they feel that
they live in a beautiful environment, if their needs can be met locally, if there are
opportunities to create and develop independent businesses, if everyone gets to
know their neighbor, if children have opportunities to play, learn, work and
socialize…….where there is laughter and shared ideas, there you will find the
seeds of economic development.
Historic Committee
The Historic Committee has already created a jewel that draws visitors and
residents alike, in the museum at the McKellar Community Center. It is of high
quality and tells the story of our local history. Providing continued support to this
committee is critical. Providing for the means to display large outdoor
equipment throughout the township would be beneficial. Treating all township
property as an extension of the museum supports the overall historic theme to
the township and creates a draw and identity to the area.
Proper permanent signage for the museum is critical.
Supporting historic programing such as the Christmas Kitchen Tour and
Christmas Pageant, the walking tours, perhaps historic garden tours, Historic
Cemetery Tours, an Old Time Games Day for students, etc. benefit all by
enhancing the richness in the quality of life here in McKellar Township.
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Recreational Committee
Again, this is a committee that builds on the quality of life in the area. People
who play together can then work together. The community center was built by
and for the community. It should be overflowing at all times. The present policy
of charging user fees must be considered. If the Recreation Committee is given
freedom to work within a mandate to have the community center 100%
occupied, then the events themselves will support the center, freeing funds from
council for other priorities. For example, providing the stage and storage space
for a theater group, income can come from the plays performed. Providing
musicians with a venue to perform, income will come from the audience at the
concert or dance. In letting creative people in to use the facility and organize
events, then as well as the Centre really becoming the center of the community,
it will support itself and not be a drain on tax dollars. Partnering with community
groups should be explored; perhaps a seniors’ group or the Church Women, as
examples, providing the fundraising food for a music event, etc. The work is
shared as well as the revenue. The community center should be benefiting all
interested community user groups not stretching their financial capacity to use
it. A simple concept happy people create a strong and vibrant community.
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EDC Committee
1. Ongoing research and development of the long term strategic development plan.
2. Oversee proper signage in the township. 3. Washrooms 4. Trails 5. Information kiosk 6. Welcome to the township 7. Township directory and scenic tour brochures 8. Ongoing, market and pioneer school
DEVELOPING AREA PROJECTS TO ENHANCE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
• Support REDAC’s Smart Community for high speed fibre- Smart Co
• Support REDAC’s area Marketing Plan – “Destination……..
• Support the connecting of McKellar to area trails, waterways and safe roads- The
Hub concept
Other: Roads and Services, and an Economic /Special Events staff position
9. FINANCIAL OBJECTIVES AND CONSIDERATIONS ;
• Establish clear long term financial plan and sources of funding to be phased in over time
• Need to establish the cost to implement each ED project and the overall total cost
• Itemize list of all possible income sources to explore for funding projects
• Consider selling of public land to develop commercial space
• Investigate all government grants for each project
• Locate future commercial investors for a restaurant, gas station
• Plan to build up capital reserves over time, presently just over 1 million in cash and
equivalents
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• Consider the purchase of new land for future development of a combined facility
• Budget each year for implementation of the Strategic plan – 1% of the budget
• Sale of default properties
• Investigate borrowing and investing in the future at a low interest rate over time
• New lot development – 5-10 lots per year
-see Malone pp 3-25
10. DEMOGRAPHIC STUDY 10yr PROJECTION
To be able to develop, maintain and adjust a Long Term Strategic Plan, a full understanding of
area demographics is imperative. All township programs, business opportunities, services,
planning, staffing requirements, etc. require knowledge of the past, present and future
projections of demographic trends and projected needs.
11. FINANCIAL PLAN -to be developed with approval in principle for projects.
As the basic Strategic Plan is accepted in principal, then a detailed financial plan needs to be
formed immediately. The “how’s” and “when’s” of all area projects need to be filled in. For
example; Just saying that we want the walking bridge restored, collecting public donations, yet
not making a plan to how that can happen, lets things ride until money is wasted, lost, and a
costly reapplication process needs to be made. A long term planning budget is required to
ensure the efficiency and realization of long term plans.
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12. THE TIME LINE
• Immediate: 1 year
o Minerva Park- walking bridge, pavilion
o Committees of Council
o Parking, snow mobile staging
o Park benches and bike racks
o Plantings
o Façade program
• Short Term: 2-5 years
o Trails, historic buildings
o Minerva Park- year round washroom, kiosk, band shell, boat launch, beach, parking
o Bike friendly community
o 8-80 considerations
o Park benches and bike racks
o Plantings
o Façade program
• Long Term: 6-10 years
o Roads Yard, Fire hall, parking
o Plantings
o façade program
o Trails
13. APPENDIX, REPORTS, MEETINGS WITH CITIZENS, COMMUNITY GROUPS, PUBLIC
MEETING, EXPERTS AND STAFF AND THE REVISED ED CONCEPTUAL PAPER.
I. 2004 Economic Development report by Parsons and Malone
II. The draft Official Plan of the Township of McKellar – 2014-2015
III. Inventory of McKellar Property and Considerations re Long Term Conceptual Paper –
John Cole, May 2014
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IV. McKellar Economic Development Conceptual Paper- revised Summer of 2013
V. Municipal Planning and Financial Tools for Economic Development; MMAH 2011
VI. Economic Development Strategy: McDougall, Parry Sound and Sequin, 2006
VII. Municipal Bonusing: What’s permitted and What’s Not- Steven O’Melia – Miller
Thompson – 2006
VIII. Summary Reports from meetings conducted with staff, MPAC, volunteer community
groups, farmers, tourism operators, business owners, The Ridge, Camp Manitou and
Camp Kodiak, Public meeting and various citizen e mails and correspondence
IX. Community 8-80 report
X. Ontario by Bike report
XI. Renderings of Minerva Park
XII. Rendering of roads yard
XIII. Site map of Minerva Park
XIV. Trail maps
CORPORATION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF MCKELLAR
BY-LAW NO. 2015-35
Being a By-law to Confirm the Proceeding of Council of theTownship of McKellar
WHEREAS Section 5 of the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c.25 as amended, provides that thepowers of a municipality shall be exercised by its Council; and
WHEREAS, Section 9 of the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c.25 as amended, provides that amunicipality has the capacity, rights, powers and privileges of a natural person for the purposes ofexercising its authority under the Municipal Act or any other Act; and
WHEREAS Section 5(3) of the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c.25 as amended, provides that amunicipal power, including a municipality’s capacity rights, powers and privileges under Section 9of the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c 25 as amended, shall be exercised by by-law unless themunicipality is specifically authorized to do otherwise; and
WHEREAS it is deemed expedient that the proceedings of the Council of the Corporation of theTownship of McKellar at this Session be confirmed and adopted by By-law.
NOW THEREFORE the Council of the Corporation of the Township of McKellar hereby enacts asfollows:
1. THAT the actions of the Council of the Corporation of the Township of McKellar at itsmeeting held on September 21, 2015 in respect to each resolution and each action passed andtaken by Council at the meeting, is, except where the prior approval of the Ontario MunicipalBoard is required, hereby adopted, ratified and confirmed as if the same were expresslyembodied in this By-law.
2. THAT the Reeve, or in his/her absence the Acting Reeve, and the proper officials of theCorporation of the Township of McKellar are hereby authorized and directed to do all thingsnecessary to give effect to the said action of the Council of the Corporation of the Townshipof McKellar during the said meeting referred to in Section 1 of this By-law.
3. THAT the Reeve, or in his/her absence the Acting Reeve, and the proper officials of theCorporation of the Township of McKellar are hereby authorized and directed to execute alldocuments necessary to the action taken by this Council as described in Section 1 of this By-law and to affix the Corporate Seal of the Corporation of the Township of McKellar to alldocuments referred to in said Section 1.
READ a FIRST and SECOND time this 21st day of September, 2015.
_________________________________ __________________________________Reeve Clerk
READ a THIRD time and PASSED in OPEN COUNCIL this 21st day of September, 2015.
_________________________________Reeve
_________________________________Clerk
