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March 10, 2009 Agenda
a2~Y °PFr~ ORDERS OF THE DAY `~' x FOR TUESDAY, MARCH 70, 2009 - 9:00 A.M Y~ jy °NTaR~~ PAGE # ~ ORDER 1st Meeting Called to Order 2nd Adoption of Minutes -February 17, 2009 3rd Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof 4th Presenting Petitions, Presentations and Delegations DELEGATION: 2 9:00 a.m. Allan Weatherall, Director of Development, St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital Foundation, and Paul Collins, President and CEO, St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital, to present an update on some recent major developments (see attachment) 9:30 a.m. Dave Anderson of AECOM to present Capital Needs Study (Study circulated separately -please bring your copy with you to the meeting) -see report on page 4 from the Director of Engineering Services 5th Motion to Move Into "Committee Of The Whole Council" 3-63 6th Reports of Council, Outside Boards and Staff 7th Council Correspondence -see attached 64-71 1) Items for Consideration 72-94 2) Items for Information (Consent Agenda) 8th OTHER BUSINESS 1) Statements/Inquiries by Members 2) Notice of Motion 3) Matters of Urgency 9th Closed Meeting Items 10th Recess 11th Motion to Rise and Report 12th Motion to Adopt Recommendations from the Committee Of The Whole 95-97 13th Consideration of By-Laws 14th ADJOURNMENT LUNCH WILL BE PROVIDED NOTICE: March 24, 2009 April 1, 2009 April 14, 2009 9:00 a.m. -County Council Meeting - 2009 Proposed Capital Budget Elgin-St. Thomas Municipal Association 19th Annual Meeting and Banquet Social Hour 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. Banquet 7:00 p.m. -Keystone Complex, Shedden 9:00 A.M. -County Council Meeting -Proposed Composite Budget for 2009 189 Elm Street, St. Thomas, Ontario, Canatla N5R 5C4 Tel 519 631-2020 Fax 519 631-1825 Elgin County Council County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, ON N5R 5V1 ~~I3 :' is 2009 ATTENTION MARK McDONALD Dear Mark The heartbeat of our community continues to be the hospital ... 24/7/365. ~" - ~ . . CGi6N i Y Qla ELGIN AD~~INISTRATIVE SERVICES As a follow-up to our January 2007 appearance before Council, we request an opportunity to provide an update on some recent major developments. We greatly appreciate the willingness of Council to have made afour-year commitment of $250,000 to create a $1 M redevelopment fund following our presentation two years ago. Recently, $900,000 was received from the Ministry of Health and Long-term Care for the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital (STEGH) to undertake a comprehensive analysis of the existing facility with a primary focus on the 1954 building. Now underway by Prism Partners Inc. from Toronto, the study will assess the current structure to determine the best space utilization. Among the areas that will require upgrades and wide-ranging funding support: Emergency Room -expansion and access improvement allowing for more effective patient response time and space for care -very busy area that accommodates many more than originally designed Mental Health -the Province will be expecting STEGH to implement a mental health program including 15 in-patient beds and out-patient programming -however, specific details are still required, including a firm time-frame and costing Surgical Suites -which includes the Operating Rooms and Day Surgery Unit (approximately 85% of all surgery is done on an outpatient basis now} -expansion and access improvement - they are located in the1954 section and require modernization to accommodate new modern equipment and allow best treatments These much-needed and much-anticipated physical changes will have a profound impact upon the Hospital's long-term viability and thus the delivery of quality care to subsequent generations. Thank you in advance for your willingness to hear about your Hospital's plans for redevelopment. We Zook forward to meeting with you on March 10, 2009. Sincerely, ®ur Core Values of Governors Compassion Respect Accountability Simplicity REPORTS OF COUNCIL AND STAFF MARCH 10, 2009 Staff Reports - (ATTACHED) 4 Director of Engineering Services -Capital Needs -For the County of Elgin Road Infrastructure (distributed separately) 7 Director of Community and Cultural Services -Permanent Closure of Vienna Library Branch 13 Director of Community and Cultural Services -Library "Leadership by Design" Study 27 Deputy Director of Community and Cultural Services -Economic Development and Tourism Work Plan 42 Director of Senior Services -Terrace Lodge -Ministry of Health & Long Term Care Annual Review 2009 43 Ambulance & Emergency Management Coordinator -Cool Aid Program -New Sponsors 45 Director of Financial Services - 2009 Requests for Grants and Loans 63 Chief Administrative Officer -Day Services LHIN Service Accountability Agreement Chief Administrative Officer -Restructuring of Former Deputy Clerk Position as a Cost Containment Measure (to be included on Friday Fax) 3 ElgCStrri~}, pmgr¢ssh56yNeNre REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Clayton D. Wafters, Director of Engineering Services DATE: January 29, 2009 SUBJECT: Capital Needs -for the County of Elgin Road Infrastructure The County of Elgin hired an engineering consulting firm in 2008 to prepare a road infrastructure needs study. The report was completed following approved methods, however, the visual inspection process used is limited and does not include all infrastructure needs and other Council priorities. DISCUSSION The County of Elgin retained the services of AECOM to review the County of Elgin road system and provide comments on the infrastructure, that study is called a `Needs Study'. The Needs Study summarizes the conditions of the road system (including bridges) through a series of visual reviews, those reviews were undertaken in 2008. The study provides a high level overview of the overall condition of the road system and identifies the condition of the infrastructure at that particular day based upon the parameters of the MTO Inventory Manual for Municipal Roads (1991) and the Municipal Bridge Appraisal Manual. From those findings a high level capital program and budget was prepared. The rationale for undertaking the review was initially to have a clear understanding of the road infrastructure and its condition. The inspection manuals and methods require a solid background in municipal engineering practices and many years of related experience to develop sound conclusions. The technical review is strictly visual and subjective evaluations are incorporated into an objective point rating system. In addition to the technical knowledge required for these inspection systems to work, there must be a practical component or a "working local knowledge" of the road system being inspected. The visual assessment of the road infrastructure alone could not possibly identify historical issues, known studies, planned development, sub-surface infrastructure conditions or other County priorities. AECOM did follow the Manuals' intent but that review does miss some important key components. Those missing factors are identit=led infrastructure needs for the County of Elgin and examples are: growth related needs, slope failures, road re-alignments, safety systems and drainage infrastructure. Identified growth related projects include: widening Wellington Road and Highbury Road to four lanes from the present two lanes; installing traffic signals on John Street at Beech Street and turning lanes at Highbury and Ferguson Line. The known slope failure projects are on Glen Erie Line, Dexter Line and Iona Road. The road re-alignments are on Ron McNeil Line at Putnam Road, Pioneer Line at the east side of West Lorne, Queens Line at Blacks Road to name a few. The County of Elgin has adopted the Roadside Safety Manual and those costs are not included in the computations. Also, most of the drainage infrastructure on the provincial highway transfers are now well beyond their useful and physical limitations and are in need of replacements. These additional projects are not identified using the criteria of the Inventory Manual for Municipal Roads, however, they are infrastructure investments that are necessary. The total value of these initiatives could exceed $40 million. In addition, staff wants to caution Council about the accuracy of the high-level project cost estimates. These are derived using general formulas and can be very different from project estimates completed once a project has been surveyed and engineered. For example, the County has recently completed a detailed cost estimate for the Rehabilitation of Calton Line totalling $5.7 million. This same project is identified in the needs study with an estimate of only $3.7 million. CONCLUSION AECOM has completed the County of Elgin Capital Needs Study as directed. Data collection, evaluation and estimating were done in accordance with the MTO Inventory Manual for Municipal Roads, the Municipal Bridge Appraisal Manual and followed the terms and conditions approved by the County. This study, while complete has a limited scope and does not include other identified infrastructure needs relating to growth, capacity and the condition of features not seen from a driving inspection. The missing needs'value could exceed $40 million. The needs study should be all encompassing so that it can serve as a complete capital plan for Council and staff, identifying all road infrastructure investment priorities. Therefore, staff suggests that a comprehensive needs study be developed to incorporate other identified infrastructure needs that are not contemplated under the methodology of the current report. RECOMMENDATION THAT AECOM revise the existing needs study to include other identified infrastructure needs as identified in this report to create a comprehensive capital needs plan; and, THAT engineering staff for the County of Elgin and AECOM develop a 10 year capital program for 2010 until 2020. Respectfully Submitted Clayton D. Wafters Director of Engineering Services Approve _bmission a Wald Chief Administrative Officer ElgmC.ount}r REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL PlOjla`SSl~f bf (FXuN FROM: Brian Masschaele Director of Community and Cultural Services DATE: February 10, 2009 SUBJECT: Permanent Closure of Vienna Library Branch INTRODUCTION: This report provides an overview of challenges at the Vienna branch of the Elgin County Library and ultimately recommends that the branch be closed permanently before the end of 2009. DISCUSSION: Staff have completed a comprehensive review of operations within the Elgin County Library and, after careful consideration, are recommending that the Vienna branch be closed permanently due to relatively low circulation and patron numbers, proximity to other branches, structural problems with the building and to reduce costs to the County and the Municipality of Bayham during challenging economic circumstances. The following are key factors leading to this decision: 1. Branch Performance Below is a basic profile of the Vienna branch at the end of 2008: Hours open per week: 7 Number of active cardholders: 111 Total annual circulation: 4246 To put these figures in context, the Elgin County Library receives an annual benchmark study from the Administrators of Rural-Urban Public Libraries of Ontario (ARUPLO), an organization which represents county library systems in the province. In the most important areas of this study, the Vienna branch is well below recommended benchmarks. To quote the study, "the minimum population required to support a rural branch library is 1,000 people located in the catchment area for the branch." Vienna serves a catchment area of only 840 of which 111 have an active card. It is the only branch in the system not to meet this minimum benchmark. The study also states that "each branch should generate a minimum of 8000 circulations per year." Vienna's annual circulation of 4246 in 2008 is also well below this standard and is the lowest in the system. 2. Proximity to Other Branches One could make the argument that if Vienna were open more hours, or if more resources were put into it, its performance would improve to meet the minimum benchmarks. However, it is important to note that this branch is uniquely positioned within close proximity to other branches in the system. Vienna is only 6.5 km's away from the Port Burwell branch and 8 km's away from the Bayham branch. Its catchment area is therefore not likely to grow beyond current levels for the foreseeable future, especially given that population growth in the village has been modest. It is the only branch located within 10 km's of another, let alone two. Staff are of the opinion that the residents of Bayham will still have a high level of access to library services through the two remaining branches in the municipality given their close proximity. The Bayham branch in Straffordville is open 28 hours per week and the Fred Bodsworth Public Library of Port Burwell is open 11 hours per week. These two libraries cater to the Municipality and County as a whole and would remain cultural hubs for the area, including the village of Vienna. 3. Building Condition The Municipality of Bayham has identified a number of upgrades that are required to bring the building, formerly used as the village town hall, up to an acceptable standard to continue the operation of the branch. This includes extensive improvements to the building's foundation which contains large structural cracks, new entrances with a ramp and a new bathroom to meet accessibility requirements, electrical upgrades, replacement of windows, and a new heating/ventilation/air conditioning system. Estimates received in 2007 indicate that the total scope of the work required is in the range of $140,000 to $190,000. Recent provincial regulations regarding customer service standards for disability access will only increase this cost. In both 2005 and 2007, the Municipality applied for a Trillium application to undertake the necessary renovations. The applications were ultimately turned down. Copies of these applications are available for inspection at Bayham's municipal office. The municipality has no current plans to undertake the necessary work unilaterally given the extensive costs and it has not been determined if they will consider making an application under upcoming federal/provincial infrastructure programs to complete the work. Simply put, the library cannot continue to operate in this building indefinitely without these renovations and the municipality likely cannot afford to undertake them. While the branch could conceivably be moved to another location, the other arguments in this report speak against this option even if an acceptable space were available elsewhere in the village. In any case, the municipality would still be obligated to complete necessary renovations to accommodate the library regardless of the location, leading to the same budgetary pressures. Council should be advised that if the decision is made to keep the branch open, the County will also be required to provide upgrades to existing facilities and equipment in the building to meet accessibility requirements. Staff have made significant progress in implementing such upgrades in other library branches and the work is on-going but Vienna has yet to be considered. For instance, a new circulation desk will be required to facilitate wheelchair access for staff and patrons and shelving modifications will also be required. While the majority of accessibility upgrades would be Bayham's responsibility, the County will also have to spend additional funds to meet these obligations, approximate estimates for which could be as much as $10,000. Allocation of these funds will only increase pressure on an existing or future County budget. Currently, Bayham spends approximately $5700 per year to operate the building for library purposes, thereby largely off-setting lease revenue received from the County. Closure will therefore have little impact on the municipality's operating budget. 4. Cost Savings The County's annual lease with the Municipality of Bayham is $6200. In addition; 8 staff hours per week would be eliminated, resulting in an approximate annual savings of $8300, making the total annual savings to the County $14,500. Staff are confident that these hours could be reduced equitably within the system and will not result in any formal layoffs. 5. Expired Lease The most recent lease agreement for the Vienna Library was established with the former Village of Vienna in 1987 and was renewed in 1994 for a five year term. The lease was not renewed in 1999 in light of the recommendation to close the branch. The County has not formally renewed the lease since that time but has instead operated the library under the terms of the expired lease. Given that a valid lease is no longer in place, there are no binding notice provisions that would prevent the branch from being closed as soon as feasible. Historical Context Council may be aware that this is not the first formal discussion pertaining to Vienna's closure. In 1999, the Council of the Municipality of Bayham, citing dwindling use, adopted a recommendation to close the branch which was then endorsed by County Council. However, in response to public feedback to this decision, Bayham Council subsequently rescinded the recommendation and County Council agreed to do the same. What has changed in 2009 is the advanced deterioration of the building putting its future in doubt and the difficult economic circumstances brought on by a deep global recession that both the Municipality of Bayham and the County of Elgin face. The challenge of low usage also remains from 1999 and the branch's performance can now be measured against guidelines and benchmarks that were not available in 1999. It should also be noted that the library's catalogue is now much more automated than it was in 1999 and more services are being provided on-line. Nevertheless, and as was the case in 1999, Council can be assured that there will be ample opportunity for the public to be heard on this issue. Staff recommend that notice be provided to the Municipality of Bayham and that authorization for closure effective July 1, 2009 take place through by-law at County Council's session on April 14, 2009. This will give the public approximately one month to provide Bayham and County Council with feedback. Dispersal of Assets The following is a basic inventory of assets currently at the Vienna Library: • Bookslmagazines/audio-visual materials: 6141 • 2 computers with printers • 1 Early Literacy Station • 1 photocopier • 1 router and modem • 1 circulation desk • Metal shelving Vienna's collection size is less than three percent of the Library's total collection of approximately 210,000 items and will be distributed throughout the system. Information Technology has confirmed that all computer equipment can also be used elsewhere in the County. The photocopier was deemed surplus from Elgin Manor and is approximately 20 years old. The circulation desk was also a surplus item. Potential Impact The library does receive some funding that is pro-rated on a per branch basis. For instance, the Ministry of Culture has provided $500 in 2007-2008 and 2008- 2009 for each branch to promote ServiceOntario. Such funds are program specific and are not permanent. In any case, the reduction of such funds for a particular branch will not have any impact on the library's overall operating budget. Staff recognize that a library is much more than a repository of books, it also serves as the cultural hub of a community so the decision to close a branch, especially in a rural community, must not be taken lightly. However, staff are of the opinion that in this particular case, the residents of Vienna will still have excellent library services and programming available within very close proximity and indeed closer than many other residents of the County. Automation and provision of services on-line is also making it easier to use the library's services from home making physical location of a branch less of an issue. Council is urged to look at this decision from the perspective that it will strengthen the library's ten other branches by allowing staff to distribute existing resources more equitably within them. Council can remain assured that the remaining ten branches will still provide the high level of service that County residents have come to expect and appreciate. Council can furthermore be assured that staff continually review the operations of each branch and will respond to population and demographic changes in the County accordingly now and into the future. The recommendation in this case is to close a branch based on current circumstances. However, this is not to say that new opportunities for the library will not arise in the future for Council's consideration. A good example is the recent announcement of Building Canada funding for a new community centre in Springfield, plans for which include a new and larger space for the library in partnership with the Township of Malahide. Staff will be bringing forward further information about this project for Council's consideration in the near future. The library's current structure therefore must not be viewed as static and staff can assure Council that the system will remain very strong and dynamic going into the future. Next Steps Should Council endorse the recommendation to close the branch, staff recommend that the following steps be taken: 1. A notice of closure be given to the Municipality of Bayham immediately. The Public Libraries Act does not obligate the County to receive Bayham Council's endorsement to close the branch given that it has always been part of the County system since its establishment in 1950 but such endorsement would certainly strengthen the resolve to proceed. 2. A by-law to close the branch be presented to County Council at the April 14th, 2009 session. This will give the public approximately one month from the passage of this report to make delegations to County Council and/or Bayham Council on the matter. The branch be closed to the public effective May 1St, 2009. Staff estimate that it will then take up to eight weeks to fully disperse the collection and assets in the building. 4. The building be formally vacated effective July 15~, 2009 at which time lease payments and staffing hours would cease. CONCLUSION: It should be stressed that this recommendation is in no way a reflection of the excellent services that staff and the Municipality of Bayham have provided the Vienna Library over the years or a reflection of the importance placed upon patrons who use that particular library. Rather, it reflects the reality of a number of contemporary and, in some cases, long-standing challenges facing the County at that particular location. These include low usage over an extended period, proximity to other locations, deterioration of the building and the need to achieve cost savings. RECOMMENDATION: THAT A By-law closing the Vienna branch of the Elgin County Library effective July 15~, 2009 be prepared for County Council's consideration on April 14~h, 2009; AND THAT notice of closure be provided to the Municipality of Bayham immediately; AND THAT the draft 2009 budget for the Elgin County Library be adjusted accordingly. All of which is Respec fuliy-Submitted i Brian Masschaele Director of Community and Cultural Services Approved for Sub Mar Chief Administrative Officer ElgmCount}' REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL PiotivssL: q (l,mru FROM: Brian Masschaele Director of Community and Cultural Services DATE: February 11, 2009 SUBJECT: Library "Leadership by Design" study INTRODUCTION: This report informs Council that the profile of the Elgin County Library conducted by the Ontario Library Boards Association (OLBA) under its "Leadership By Design" program has now been released. DISCUSSION: The OLBA with the support of the Ontario Trillium Foundation has now released its profile of the Elgin County Library under its "Leadership By Design" program. A copy of the final study is attached for Council's information. Council authorized participation in this study in July 2008 with then Councillor Warwick representing County Council. The final study was released at the 2009 conference of the Ontario Library Association in late January as part of sixteen such studies and is now posted on-line at the OLBA's website. The Library was chosen from amongst hundreds of library systems in the province for meeting the following criteria: Award Winning -The library won the Ministry of Culture's Angus Mowat Award of Excellence in 2005 for the "Open the Doors to Learning" project; Innovation -The library has demonstrated exemplary commitment as a leader in the cultural, economic, educational andlor social development of its community through specific service initiatives involving other community organizations. Of the sixteen libraries selected, six are located in Northern Ontario and ten in Southern Ontario. The report provides a highly informative overview of the library's structure, history and recent successes. In particular, it focuses on the motivating influences and leadership shown by Council and staff that led to the success of the "Open the Doors to Learning" project spearheaded by the Aylmer Library in partnership with Summers' Corners Public School in 2005. It uses this project, and the library's more recent successes, as an example of effective leadership that other public library boards can follow. OLBA is now in the process of integrating this study into a package that will be sent to all public libraries in Ontario under an initiative called "Learning From Our Peers". Members of Council can take great pride in the emphasis placed on Council's leadership as the operating board for the library. The study states; "Critical to the wellbeing of Elgin County Library is the support of Elgin County Council as its governing body." Council's unique role as the board of the library was furthermore recognized at the conference session as a model of efficiency, speaking furthermore to the strength of the County's current governing model. CONCLUSION: In submitting this report, it should be acknowledged that staff at the Aylmer Library and former Director Cathy Bishop played a key role in making this study possible. RECOMMENDATION: THAT the attached report "Library Leadership in Community Development" from the Ontario Library Boards Association be received and filed; AND THAT the Warden issue a letter of acknowledgement and appreciation to the President of the Ontario Library Boards Association." All of which is Respectfully Submitted Approved for Submission rian Masschaele G. McDonald Director of Community and Chief Administrative Officer Cultural Services Library Leadership in Community Development ELGIN COUNTY LIBRARY vvww.library.elgin-county.on.ca Category/Project Literacy!"Open the Doors to Learning" Population 49,241* re: populations for Tower tier municipalities (table on page 3) Municipality Type Rural and Small Community Land Area 1862 km2 Status Upper Tier Municipality * Statistics Canada 2006 PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS ~ Initiated in 2005 as a joint project between the local library and community school indirect response to a critical need to expose "at risk" students in Grades 4-8 to a culture of learning and literacy; ~ Involves outreach to students and their families with the enthusiastic participation of school administrators and teachers along with library administrators and branch staff; ~ Established as a blueprint for similar public librarylschool partnerships in other local communities; ~ Aligned with municipal priorities to address issues related to social, cultural, educational and economic development; ~ Endorsed and supported by regional board of education and municipal authorities -lower & upper tier; ~ Integral to an eleven-branch county library system -decentralized in its service delivery but centralized in expertise enabling the rationalization of human and technological resources for maximum effect. MUNICIPAL CONTEXT The County of Elgin is situated in the heart of southwestern Ontario along the north shore of Lake Erie. From its origin as the Talbot Settlement* in 1803, the County has had an interesting and colourful history largely based on the development of lumbering, agriculture and tourism. When incorporated as the County of Elgin in 1852, there were eight municipalities. While the boundaries of the County have remained unchanged to this day, there have been a number of changes to local governments over time, with the emergence of new towns and villages and the departure of others. The most significant change occurred in 1998 when the County restructured into seven local municipalities. Railways played an important role in the County's economic development because of its location halfway between Detroit on the west and Toronto and LIBRARY LEADERSHIP IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Elgin County Library Page 1 of 12 Buffalo to the east. Over the years, a substantial industrial base consisting of large manufacturing and service industries has grown up in Elgin County and the neighbouring City of St. Thomas. The County of Elgin offers a high quality of life, a strong sense of community, a temperate climate, numerous recreational opportunities and many economic advantages, making it an ideal location to live, work and prosper. *Talbot Settlement -When John Graves Simcce toured Upper Canada as its first Lieutenant- Governor, his young aide-de-camp, Lieutenant Thomas Talbot (Upper Canada), first met and fell in love with the Ontario vrilds. Subsequently, Talbot managed to secure a large tract of land in Southwestern Ontario for the purpose of establishing an agricultural community. Talbot was faced with the problem of settling immigrants in spite of the difficulty caused by large forests, which blocked communication and hindered travel. Scottish settlers came to the Talbot Settlement along with people who had settled originally in Nova Scotia. Elgin County was part of Middlesex County from 1837 to 1851. Prior to that, Elgin County was part of the London District. htto:/lwww.elginogs. caltalbotsettlement. htm As an upper tier municipality, Elgin County services include libraries, museums, archives and long-term care homes. In cooperation with the City of St. Thomas, the County provides social services through public health, ambulance and Ontario Works. The Information Technology (IT) Department supports its lower- tiermunicipalities in advancing web connections and Internet services for all residents. Very recently, Elgin County has been working with its lower-tier municipalities and St. Thomas on an economic development initiative that has resulted in a marketing strategy to foster a dynamic new future for businesses in the energy and environment, agribusiness, manufacturing, tourism, transportation and logistics sectors. County of Elgin Corporate Goals • To ensure fiscal responsibility and accountability • To promote cultural services • To nurture and support dignified long-term care • To be recognized as a desired employer • To promote Elgin as "The Place to Live" • To forge community partnerships • To provide innovative and collaborative quality service • To recognize and seize opportunities for improvement • To build and maintain an efficient, affordable, effective and safe transportation network that accommodates the diverse needs of our communities and is able to support economic development and sustainable growth www.elgin-county.ca Motto Progressive by Nature Economic Drivers • Manufacturing; Agriculture; Retail; Tourism www. oroa ressivebvn alu re.com LIBRARY LEADERSHIP IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Elgin County Library Page 2 of 12 Demographics for Elgin County's Seven Lower Tier Municipalities County of Elgin:; Lower Tier Municipalities Total'. ' Po ulatjon* % of Population aged 15 and over* Median S! A e* 1. Munici alit of Ba ham 6727 75.8 34.7 2. Munici alit of Central EI in 12723 82.4 42.5 3. Municipality of Dutton/Dunwich 3821 78.7 40.0 4. Munici alit of West EI in 5349 83.1 42.9 5. Town of A Imer 7069 79.6 38.2 6. Townshi of Malahide 8828 74.7 34.1 7. Township of Southwold 4724 80.5 39.9 * Sfatistics Canada 2006 LIBRARY CONTEXT Chronology* • Several Elgin County Library branches originated as Mechanics' Institutes - Aylmer (1874), Belmont (1887), Shedden (1890), Dutton (1892), Rodney (1893), Springfield (1897), Port Stanley [189-?]; • 1936 -The Elgin County Library Association, composed of existing libraries in five communities, was formed; Five more libraries joined the Association in subsequent years; • 1947 -The Association was re-organized under the Ontario Public Libraries Amendment Act as the Elgin County Library Co-operative; Under the terms of the enacting by-law, Elgin County Council appointed the Board of Directors composed of the Warden, three County Councillors and three other appointees, not necessarily Councillors; • 1960's -The Ontario Public Libraries Act was revised to allow the formation of tax-supported County Library systems in Ontario, but the benefits of public funding came with aprice -loss of fiscal and administrative independence. Moreover, the terms of the new Act required that at least 75% of the County's constituent municipalities formally request the establishment of a county public library system. Between 1960 and 1965 the staff and members of the Board of the Co-operative attended many meetings and spent hours LIBRARY LEADERSHIP IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Elgin County Library Page 3 of 12 convincing representatives of these libraries, their patrons, municipal officials, teachers and the general public of the benefits of a publicly funded County Library system. Finally, in 1965, with the unanimous consent of its constituent municipalities, Elgin County Council enacted a by-law to establish a County Library Service. Elgin County Library was the third county public library established in Ontario and the first with all constituent municipalities participating. Under the law, the newly formed County Library functioned as a separate corporation and not as a committee of Council. County Council was empowered to appoint all members of the Elgin County Library Board, including the Warden, ex officio, three members appointed to three-year terms, and three members appointed to one-year terms; 1974 -Anew 25,000 square-foot Elgin-St. Thomas Public Library building was erected in St. Thomas, with the County of Elgin and City of St. Thomas sharing the cost of construction. The new building housed the St. Thomas Public Library and Elgin County Library headquarters arranged through a lease agreement signed by their respective boards; 1986 - As a result of a private member's bill passed in the Ontario Legislative Assembly on December 6, 1985, the Elgin County Library Board was dissolved, its assets and liabilities vested in the County of Elgin, and governance of the Library's operations devolved to the newly-formed Library Committee of Elgin County Council. The Library's head office was relocated from the St. Thomas Public Library to the Elgin County Administration Building. The non-administrative staff of the Library was unionized. * A comprehensive history of the Elgin County Library can be found by searching ARCHEION, Ontario's Archival Information Network - htto://archeion-aao.fis.utoronto.ca/ 2007 Statistics • Library card holders -12,262 • Library visits -17,300 not including online users • Library budget - $2M Organization Library Board • Committee of the Whole, Elgin County Council (composed of 7 Mayors & Z Deputy Mayors of Lower Tier Municipalities) Library Administration • Brian Masschaele, Director of Community and Cultural Services, is responsible for the Elgin County Library, Archives, Museum and Tourism; Brian is a professional archivist. • Cathy Bishop retired from the position of Director of Community and Cultural Services in August 2008 when she was honoured for her `legacy of service'. She began her career at the Elgin County Library System as a clerk-typist in 1973. • Sandi Loponen, Library Coordinator, administers the library's patron and materials database and online catalogue; oversees acquisitions, LIBRARY LEADERSHIP IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Elgin Counly Library Page 4 of 12 processing and interlibrary loan functions; and provides support for public service functions at the library's branches. Sandi holds a Master of Library and Information Science degree and is currently pursing a certificate in Canadian Public Administration (Ryerson University); she is supported by 3 other full-time employees at County Library headquarters. Library Branch Staff & Volunteers • 25 FTE including 5 Branch Supervisors (3 Full-Time & 3Part-Time); "Friends of the Library" groups and numerous other community members are active volunteers in various capacities at all Elgin County Library Branches. The headquarters for the Elgin County Library continues to be located in the County Administration Building along with the county's archives and museum. There are eleven branches, situated throughout the county: 1. Aylmer 2. Straffordville (Bayham) 3. Belmont (Central Elgin) 4. Dutton (Dutton/DUnfield) 5. Port Burwell (Bayham) 6. Port Stanley (Central Elgin} 7. Rodney (West Elgin) 8. Shedden (Southwold) 9. Springfield (Malahide) 10. Vienna (Bayham) 11. West Lorne (West Elgin) Over many years, Elgin County Library has remained true to the strategic directions of County Council and integral to the social, cultural, educational and economic development of its `community of communities'. A visit to the individual websites of its eleven branches provides a glimpse at the system's substantial services and programs tailored to meet the needs of residents in each community. htlp~//www eloinconnects ca/portal/enW php~w=EloinCountvLibrarvBranches&e id=1235 Recent highlights include: • Completion of a $40,000 renovation project at the John Kenneth Galbraith Reference Library -Dutton Public Library in collaboration with the Municipality of Dutton/Dunwich. Upgrades include a new reference desk in amore prominent location adjacent to the circulation desk; wooden shelving with prominent display panels at the end of each range; relocation of public access computers and the addition of a new stand up reference computer; new furniture in the reading areas; improved signage throughout the branch. • National recognition for the Springfield Library as the first place winner in the inaugural Summer Reading Award Program, adjudicated by Library and Archives Canada and sponsored by TD Canada Trust. The library received this award for its 2007 "Lost Worlds" program, praised by the jury for its LIBRARY LEADERSHIP IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Elgin County Library Page 5 of 12 originality and the strong partnership developed with the Springfield Public School. "ONE Card Can Change Everything" campaign featuring "Larry the Library Card", a mascot who has come to be a popular attraction throughout the County. You can watch Larry and experience Elgin County Public Libraries in a video presentation on YouTube muo rrrnwJ voutune com/watch?v=zwLearcfvcnA>. In addition, the library has produced a glossy package of materials to complement Larry's presence and serve as a comprehensive Elgin County Library User Guide. The installation of The Early Literacy StationT"' (ELS) at each branch using special funds from the Ministry of Culture. Targeted for toddlers through second graders, the ELS is aself-contained computer system, which includes thirty-four educational software packages across seven curricular areas. The ELS is not just another computer with software. It is an imaginative system as children draw the cursor over icons to HEAR and SEE and get drawn into the adventure and start to explore with little or no adult intervention. http:!lwww. awe-net.coml Through a partnership with the Elgin St. Thomas Health Unit, Healthy at Heart Elgin and St. Thomas Public Library, all branches in the Elgin County Library System are equipped with pedometer kits for residents to borrow just Tike they do books. Kits include information about using the pedometer, tracking steps, setting goals, starting a walking club and using hiking trails in the area. The fact is that over 50% of Elgin County residents don't get enough physical exercise. Walking is one of the best exercises anyone can do to attain the recommended 30-60 minutes of moderate exercise every day. The John Kenneth Galbraith Literary Award was created to honour John Kenneth Galbraith, a Dunwich farm boy, who went onto become an internationally acclaimed economist, ambassador and author. Now in its 3`d year, the award program is spearheaded by the "Friends of Dutton/Dunwich" who also wanted to bring attention to their community while encouraging and rewarding one Canadian author each year. Along with many other community partners, the Elgin County Library through its John Kenneth Galbraith Reference Library (Dutton Branch) is a dedicated `grass roots' supporter of this prestigious award. http•(/www iohnkennethaalbraithliteraryaward.calindex.htm LIBRARY LEADERSHIP IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Elgin Counly Library Page 6 of 12 PROJECT PROFILE "Open the Doors to Learning" Rich in history, the Aylmer Old Town Hall Library & Opera House is a hub of activity in the centre of town. Newly restored and renovated, the first floor of this heritage structure (c. 1874) designated under the Ontario Heritage Act, was opened as the Aylmer Branch of the Elgin County Library in June 1982. Subsequently, the Opera House on the second floor was fully restored and opened in September 1988. Early in 2005, "Open the Doors to Learning" was initiated as a project between the Aylmer Old Town HaII Library (Elgin County Library) and the Summers' Corners Public School (Thames Valley District School Board) to address very critical learning and literacy needs of children and their families living in the immediate area. The eastern part of Elgin County, including Aylmer, is an economically challenged area. Levels of education and income fall below the provincial average. Fifty percent of the children in Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8, who attend Summers' Corners Public School (situated 5 km. east of downtown Aylmer in a rural area), come from local families that traditionally do not foster a culture of learning. Many are deemed to be students "at risk" as they deal with learning disabilities, English as a Second Language, poor attendance and disengagement with learning. A learning Opportunity Grant from Thames Valley's Student Pathways for Success provided the impetus for the project. This grant program assists principals and teachers in developing programs to meet the needs of students who may be at risk of not completing the requirements for the Ontario Secondary School Diploma. In her successful application for the grant, the School Principal, Roseanne Baird, secured funds to cover six bus trips for groups of students in Grades 4-8 to travel to and from the Aylmer Library. htto://www.tvdsb.on.ca/pathways/ As a first step in the planning process, the school principal and Chris Mayhew, Supervisor, Aylmer Old Town Hall Library, formulated the project's goals: • Support literacy in students • Enable students to become knowledgeable about the library, its layout, materials, resources, policies, and staff • Promote the library as a resource children can use competently and with confidence • Increase the number of students who are active users of their community library • Foster a comfort level in students and their families when using the library and speaking with librarians • Create a co-educational partnership between an elementary school and a public library • Facilitate further discussions about how to best address the needs of the students and their parents LIBRARY LEADERSHIP IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Elgin County Library Page 7 of 12 • Open the doors to learning for all students through library tours conducted by library staff Aylmer Library staff embraced these goals and proceeded to develop its own set of learning goals and tools to create a comprehensive blueprint for "Open the Doors to Learning", to be used by other Elgin County Libraries for developing similar partnerships with their community schools. Highlights of this blueprint include: 1. At the school level, meet with staff to establish the literacy needs of students and brainstorm ideas on how the public library may help to meet those needs. Share information with School Council and enlist their support. 2. Set up a meeting between school and library representatives to discuss a proposal for a joint project. A school representative should outline literacy work currently underway at the school and a summary of the characteristics of the student population. Establish the needs of the students and jointly discuss how to best meet those needs to support the literacy of students. Examples: • To enable students to become knowledgeable about the library, its layout, materials, resources, policies, and staff -create centres for active, hands-on experiences led by library staff • To promote the library as a resource children can use competently and with confidence - open all computer stations for students to work through specific tasks; provide reference activities and scavenger hunts to know where and what to look for; review the Dewey Decimal system; and provide a virtual tour of the library • To increase the number of students who are active users of their community library - provide a cover letter and application form to be sent home with students prior to the library tour; library staff processes the applications; school staff distributes the new library cards • To foster a comfort level in students and their families when using the library and speaking with librarians -open the library In the evening to a family night for the school community to review the tour with parents and promote library programs and resources. 3. Formalize tour data: number of classes attending (e.g., grades 4 to 8 in year one, grade four and eight in following years to ensure new students receive necessary skills and grade eights review skills before entering high school); dates for tours; timing of tours. School representatives book buses and complete field trip forms. 4. At the school, photocopy the cover letter and application form for a library card for students going on the tour. Hold an assembly for classes going on the tour to review purpose of the trip, help students understand the importance of the skills being taught, and distribute library card application forms. Collect completed forms and pass on to the library. When library cards have been processed, library staff returns cards to the school for distribution. 5. Library staff meets to review toolkit* and revise as needed, depending on the goals and needs of the students. Provide school with worksheets that require photocopying and distribution to students the day of the trip. School representative may need to attend a library staff meeting to review any revisions, answer any questions, and help to solve any logistical questions that may arise in the planning. 6. Library Supervisor completes final preparation for tours, assigns staff members specific roles far the tours and co-ordinates the movement of students among the learning centres. 7. Carry out the tours and use the follow-up evaluations by students and staff to review for planning next year's tours. LIBRARY LEADERSHIP IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Elgin County Library Page 8 of 12 8. Meet to plan a follow up Open House at the library for parents and students. School staff and School Council advertise evening event, attend, and support. •Toolkit Contents: Application for a library card; Library resource sheet; On-line catalogue tipsheet (Gr. 4-5); On-line resources (Gr. 7-8); Teachers Guide to on-line catalogue; Library scavenger hunts (Gr. 4-6 & Gr. 7-8); Ready reference questions drawn from 5 reference tools (Gr. 7-8); Answers to ready reference questions; Student & teacher evaluation forms; Title page far student package; Map of library & Efgin County Library information package. Most Significant Outcomes "Open the Doors to Learning" exemplifies the link between libraries and literacy Without hesitation, Aylmer Library staff seized the opportunity to work in partnership with Summers' Corners Public School to establish acommunity- based literacy program in direct response to an urgent need. Children growing up in a family environment without an ideal of education and learning rely on outside influences to help overcome barriers to literacy and enable them to achieve in school. The goals for "Open the Doors to Learning" speak to the far-reaching intent of the partners in helping to break the cycle of poverty that poses an on-going challenge in Aylmer and surrounding rural area. Outreach to families that have not traditionally fostered a culture of learning demonstrates the library's desire to be inclusive. Enabling these families to experience the direct connection between the public library and their children's formal education stimulates a sense of ownership and understanding that it is a free service that belongs to them. Outcomes specific to the launch of "Open the Doors to Learning" in Spring 2005 include: Library staff conducted six 2-hour tours on three separate days for 300 Summers' Corners Public School students in Grades 4-8 & their teachers; Students on each tour were split into 3 learning groups that rotated every half hour through three library centres where they experienced: • Orientation to the history, layout and resources of the Aylmer OId Town HaII Public Library • Training on the use of the on-line catalogue and practical strategies for searching the Internet & other reference tools available at the library • Hands-on library experiences through scavenger hunts and reference activities. • Open House at Aylmer Old Town Hall Library attended by Summers' Corners parents, students, & teachers when students shared with their parents what they had learned on their tour and used their cards to borrow items that they found interesting. In turn, library staff took the opportunity to promote current library programs and gathered ideas for future programs 85% of the 300 junior and intermediate students at Summers' Corners with a library card as compared to 35% before the tours. LIBRARY LEADERSHIP IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Elgin County Library Page 9 of 12 • Student evaluations, both verbal and written, showed an overwhelming interest in the variety of things they experienced on their tour and clear insight into how they can use the resources found at their public library to help them with their learning at school. • Teacher evaluations extolled the success of the tours and the materials presented and noted that they felt that the program had significant importance both for their students' learning as well as their own personal and professional development. Teachers urged the continuation of the program in future years...specifically, for Grade 4 students to be introduced to the library and equipped with their own library card; also, for Grade 8 students to review their researching skills before moving on to high school, which is located within 2 blocks of the Aylmer library. • Parent evaluations indicated how impressed they were with the ease and comfort demonstrated by their children in accessing library resources. Overall, opening the doors of the library to a target group of children and their families through this project achieved: • Increased student and parent awareness of library resources and applications; • Increased library membership and circulation of materials; • Strengthened relationships between educators and librarians working `hand in hand' to help young students overcome barriers to literacy and advance their academic achievement; • Improvement of the library's awareness of its immediate community allowing for the review and expansion of current programs to address more effectively specific areas of need; • Commencement of a chain of stronger school/library partnerships that continue to emerge in communities throughout Elgin County; • Acknowledgement by Elgin County Council and Thames Valley District School Board of the positive impact of community schoolllibrary collaborations in promoting literacy and learning at an early age; • Provincial recognition for the Elgin County Library as a recipient of 2005 Angus MowatAward -Large Library Category (Ontario Ministry of Culture) Lessons Learned The Elgin County Library serves as a unique study in library leadership in Ontario by virtue of its history, governance and organizational structure. While its component branches are deeply rooted in individual communities throughout the County, they are strongly supported by the Library's central administration under the Community and Cultural Services Department, which LIBRARY LEADERSHIP IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Elgin County Library Page 10 of 12 links them directly to all other County services including the Elgin County Museum & Archives. As Brian Masschaele explains, "The system is decentralized in its service delivery but centralized in expertise enabling the rationalization of human and technological resources for maximum effect." The "Open the Doors to Learning" project is simply one example of Elgin County library's expansive service system involving countless community partners... "Growing with Books", a program to introduce the value of books and libraries to children aged 0-6 years and their families, has grown and flourished since it was launched in 2003 with the support of an Early Years Challenge Fund. Partners involved to this day include the Elgin St. Thomas Health Unit, Health Centres throughout the County, and the Mennonite Central Committee Resource Centre in Aylmer. A resource kit consisting of a sturdy canvas bag emblazoned with the "Growing with Books" logo, a board book, an Elgin County library card, parenting materials, etc., is delivered to every child born in Elgin County. Upon meeting Jean MacDougall at the Port Stanley Branch, it is evident that she, as a feisty octogenarian, is thrilled with the resources that she finds at her local library in her endeavour to document the history of the Port Stanley Stork Club, which opened in 1926 with its 13,000 square foot dance floor. In its heyday, swing dance enthusiasts and many famous big bands frequented this venue. Following a disastrous fire in 1979, the Stork Club closed. However, Jean and other community folks have rallied recently to establish the Stork Club Big Band Museum & Hall of Fame Board in their vision to build an entertainment complex, music and marine museums, and heritage education site on the watertront in Port Stanley. At the John Kenneth Galbraith Reference Library (Dutton Branch), Jenny Phillips, an artist, writer and community activist, is effusive in her praise of her local library as a place where she can come and get what she wants. Jenny's leadership with the John Kenneth Galbraith Literary Award exemplifies the `pride in community' that prevails at the grassroots throughout the County. In her close relationship with Mary Lou McMillan, Branch Supervisor, and other library staff, Jenny has a solid base of support for all that she continues to do in her mission to celebrate the legacy of John Kenneth Galbraith and his roots in Elgin County. Critical to the wellbeing of Elgin County Library is the support of Elgin County Council as its governing body. As a member of Council, Graham Warwick, Mayor of West Elgin, is a staunch library champion. He maintains that Council's direct relationship with the library makes for excellent communications. "If a library issue arises, Council can deal with it promptly." Councillor Warwick's absolute conviction for the public library came in his statement, "It is the one place in the community where all people can go to get smarter." LIBRARY LEADERSHIP IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Elgin County Library Page 11 of 12 STUDY TEAM -SITE VISIT (July 23, 2008) Margaret Andrewes -Consultant Lynn Humfress-Trute -President, Ontario Library Boards' Association KEY INFORMANTS -SITE VISIT (July 23, 2008) Elgin County Library Council Graham Warwick, Mayor, Municipality of West Elgin Elgin County Library Staff Cathy Bishop, Director of Community and Cultural Services Brian Masschaele, Manager of Cultural Services Emily Finch, Supervisor, Port Stanley & Shedden Branches Mary Lou McMillan, Supervisor, John Kenneth Galbraith Reference Library (Dutton Branch) Darlene VanZul, Reference Librarian, John Kenneth Galbraith Reference Library (Dutton Branch) Elgin County Library Volunteers/Partners Jean MacDougall, Port Stanley Branch Jenny Phillips, John Kenneth Galbraith Reference Library (Dutton Branch) LIBRARY LEADERSHIP IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Elgin County Library Page 12 of 12 ~lg"~~"~'~~~~~~ REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL .,:,.,,~.. ~.~ ~,il FROM: Alan Smith, Deputy Director of Community and Cultural Services DATE: February 17th, 2009 SUBJECT: Economic Development and Tourism: Work Plan INTRODUCTION: In 2007, the County of Elgin undertook the development of a comprehensive 5- year Economic Development Plan that articulated a direction and the manner in which the County together with its stakeholders would define economic development in the future. The Plan itself is underpinned by four (4) high level goals, intended to anchor and qualify all strategic initiatives or ensuing actions on the part of the County including the direction of the County of Elgin marketing strategy-which was developed in 2008. In 2009 the County continues to respond to the need to promote a regional approach to economic development and the opportunity this creates to more effectively position the County of Elgin in a broader provincial and global economy. This report highlights some of those initiatives that will be undertaken by the Community and Cultural Services, (Economic Development and Tourism Services) Department in 2009. DISCUSSION: To achieve the vision (see appendix one) set out in the County of Elgin Economic Development Plan 2007-2011, required the setting of key goals: • Investment Readiness • Pursue Partnerships and Outreach in the Community • Effective Marketing and Promotion of Elgin County • Growth of Key Industries The work that is planned for Economic Development and Tourism Services for 2009 supports those goals and the direction also set by the County of Elgin Marketing and Branding Strategy 2008-2011. As outlined in appendix two, the County will continue its approach to regional economic development and tourism through participation with specific organizations like SCOR and Ontario's South Coast, the undertaking of various marketing initiatives, and the development of local partnerships to facilitate and lead projects to meet the County's economic development vision. In 2008, Elgin along with the counties of Brant, Norfolk, Middlesex, and Oxford signed a Memorandum of Understanding to form SCOR. Last year this involvement had staff contributing considerable time to the formation of SCOR and assisting with the development of a Strategic Management Plan - to be completed by August 2009. Staff will continue this involvement participating in: the Administrative Resource Committee; the process for achieving a strategic management plan for the SCOR region; and Preston's Task Force (allocation of the $15 million community development fund). The Department will also continue to be involved with the Ontario South Coast initiative. This is a partnership comprising the counties of Elgin, Norfolk, and Haldimand which promotes regional tourism. This year Elgin has participated in the Toronto Motorcycle Show as part of a campaign to continue to attract motorcycle enthusiasts to the region. A number of other exciting advertising and promotional campaigns will be developed and implemented throughout the course of the year. Involvement with the South Coast initiative will continue to grow in importance as there seems to be a trend of funding opportunities for tourism being accessed only by regional organizations. Involvement with other regional organizations like the Southwestern Economic Assembly (SWEA) and the Southwestern Ontario Development Agency (SODA) will continue to be reviewed. The latter is a new 1 Billion dollar Federal initiative for economic development. Information on the structure of SODA has not yet been released. Although regional development is important to the diversification and enhancement of Elgin's economy, supporting local enterprise also plays a prominent role in the 2009 economic development and tourism program. An Ambassador Program, Corporate Calling Program, and a business survey (sector specific), will be developed. Enhancements to the business directory, and web page (business resource directory, virtual tradeshow), and completion of the BizPal initiative will also assist the County in the goal of becoming a one stop source for information for conducting business in Elgin County. A revamped Tourism website will be completed by the end of the year thus providing an enhanced product for local Tourism Services members. Support to the local agri-food sector will also continue this year. The Department will continue to support the Eat-Fresh Buy Local initiative. However, the Department is building upon the latter by leading the development of a CulinaryiTaste Trail. The information and data collected as a result of the Eat Fresh Buy focal campaign will be further utilized for the Taste Trail, and will benefit the continued development of working partnerships between Elgin Futures Development Corporation, the Elgin Federation of Agriculture, OMAFRA and the Elgin St. Thomas Health Unit with Elgin Tourism Services. A culinary trail offers an opportunity for an authentic cultural experience. Elgin's Taste Trail will go one step beyond others, in that it will have an interactive component which will bridge the gap between tourism and economic development of the agricultural sector. Essentially where "agri-tourism meets culinary experience". Participants on the Taste Trail will include restaurants, producers, markets, educational institutions and even retailers that qualify per criteria established for each category. The County will also continue to partner with the Elgin Federation of Agriculture to explore agri-business, food processing, and alternative crop opportunities thus benefiting local producers and businesses. Marketing is one of the key roles for Economic Development and Tourism Services. The Department continues to implement the strategies contained in the 2008-2011 Marketing Plan. This involves implementing specific marketing tactics for the target sectors of Agri-business, Manufacturing, Tourism, and Energy and Environment. On-line marketing, promotional campaigns, and tradeshow outreach are just some of the tactics to be utilized. Most of the advertising campaigns will be tourism related, for example: Lake Erie Living Spring Edition; Ontario Travel Discoveries; OTMPC; Toronto, Kitchener, Hamilton tourism ads; Ontario South Coast Summer Campaign; My Ontario Fall Campaign; Great Fall Drives; Visitor and Tour Guide; and many others. It is important to stress that in order to enhance the marketing of Elgin's tourism product and the development of that product, a Tourism Destination Development and Marketing Plan will be completed by the second quarter of this year. This is a key initiative for the Department that will guide tourism for the County and the City of St. Thomas over the next five years. As mentioned, Agri- business, and the Energy and Environment are also target sectors. Profiles of these sectors will be completed by the end of the 1St quarter which will provide a more in-depth analysis of potential marketing opportunities, projects, and trends within these economic sectors. The undertaking of events will also play a prominent role for the Department this year. The County will partner with the ECFDC to host "On a roll with Agriculture." Also, a partnership of the County of Elgin, Municipality of Central Elgin, and the Port Stanley BIA is currently in the early stages of planning a Jazz Festival. This year the County begins the preparation of the County Exhibit for the 2010 International Plowing Match (IPM). Staff will also promote the County of Elgin at the 2009 IPM. The Department continues to support the investment readiness of the County. Staff will approach private land owners to gauge their interest in marketing their employment lands for investment purposes. The "land and space" section of www.progressivebynature.com will also be enhanced. Furthermore, partnering with ECFDC, the St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation, the local training board, Fanshawe College, and other stakeholders, economic development staff is taking a prominent role in developing a workforce development strategy for Elgin County and the City of St. Thomas. The intent of this plan is to encourage the proper type of workforce development and growth in order to meet the economic development needs of the County and City. CONCLUSION: Although not an exhaustive list for 2009, the initiatives as described in appendix two support the goals and ultimately the vision for the County's economic development and tourism program. Some initiatives are regional in nature while others support the retention and expansion of local enterprise. There is a common theme throughout the work plan -partnerships. Working with the County's current stakeholders and forging new relationships is a key part to successfully achieving the County's economic development goals. Consequently, like the uncertainty of obtaining funding to implement some of the initiatives identified in this report, partnerships have a degree of instability which sometimes can lead to initiatives being revised. Therefore, there are some factors or variables at play which may result to changes in this work plan as the year progresses. RECOMMENDATION: That this report be received and filed for information. All of which is Re ectfully Submitted '~ , ~- Alan Srrftt ~i Deputy Director, Community and Cultural Services Brian Masschaele Director, Community and Cultural Services Appr v or-Sab ision Mark c Wald Chief Administrative Officer Appendix One Vision To support and foster an environment of prosperity and opportunity for the County of Elgin, its residents and businesses ~.. t 10 a Y L O N x C GJ Q 0 ~ ~ a G J U ~ C m Y C U 0 L 0 ~ o L a m ~ Y m O C ~ c i '~ N ~ 3 11.I C ~ ~ ~ ~ w fl. ~' ~ o Y ~ O c ~ ~ v U N ;~ ~ O L m L c ~ ~ Y ~ +-, C ~ m °o. N E C N ~ Q O ~, Y v > a o c o m ~ c ul O u ~ v ~ m ~ ~ C . V , Y u- m N _ ~ O o N `° a c° 9 3 0 L C O VI d N ~- O m N > > N N 3 ~ 0 'a'' ._ 0 0 i t ~ N O1 O C ~ a c m •~ m t +~ ~ m $ `~ aci v a i Q7 .0 L Y L UI Y L'~ (a m m ~ C U N ~ 7 t0 a~i u ~ U Y m o U N C N N "C ~ ~ a .+ ~ 7 ms m o a ~ ~" 7 w c m t' ~ Eo O ~- Uo O •N ~ Uac Oa~'i ' mvi ~- O N ~ ~ ~ +' pf i~ O. 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O ~ O ~ O d a>i~~W mp1O~~V"a" O F- CJ m ~ . ppoYC Vi=~~- m 3 O N J L N t+ L LL > ~ • L Y [0 U U Vl +~ O ~ V N C>~ O C ~ 0 0 E o N L O LL L f0 C ~ g V Ny V ? C= V O = ~~ C ._ N y C U O O i°~ .N wU~l-WpY mtnO i > w n H a+ C d 7 W t y ~ ~ T 10 Y ~ T o ~'' m 'vU m ++ ~ ~ ~ o o a L t ~ ~ , , ~ a m N o °.,~' ~ m ~ cn ~ 10 V !j ~ yN N N am O f L C '= O UI ~ M ~ y ., ~ L ~ [' 1- C V C '~'~ L '~' V' ' N t0 dJ v J _ ~ Ot ~ N j sr O O O T mw O.-a ~ ~ ~ y ~ ~ C ~ O w O W N > ~ L N~ ' °~ Y fO Y ai o ~ a c p , o m o,cn O~ ~ o c Q y L C C O " ~ N O =yo ~.o~ ~ O L p c> m vi >a G L [Y Ol ~O U U !!~ M C O V_ O m O a C ~ ~ Y ~ C p N ~ ~ ~ (n .. C O ~ ~ J~+ ,C ~ N 7 N (n 7 t' a+ U1 O I- O O F n- Of C 9 C y y ++ 7 O i y m 'C N > > m F Eltui ~,tinty Poe,.~~~.-b,nmuu REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Rhonda L. Roberts Director of Senior Services -Terrace Lodge DATE: February 23, 2009 SUBJECT: Ministry of Health & Long Term Care Annual Review 2009 INTRODUCTION: The Ministry of Health and Long Term Care conducts unannounced annual reviews for all long-term care homes. Terrace Lodge received an unannounced visit on January 20, 2009. DISCUSSION: There were no Unmet Standards found. The one Unmet Standard identified from the October 2008 annual review has been placed back in to compliance. CONCLUSION: The annual review for Terrace Lodge was very positive and identified no Unmet Standards, attributed to on-going staff efforts in providing high quality care and services to residents. RECOMMENDATION: THAT, this report be received and filed, and THAT, a congratulatory letter be sent from the Warden to Terrace Lodge Staff. Respectfully Submitted y Rhonda L. Roberts Director of Senior Services-TL Approve r~itJrrr{ 'on Mark G. McDonald Chief Administrative Officer E1guiCc~u,~ty REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL P{O~IV`SSLf4/lUUalf FROM: Larysa Andrusiak, Ambulance & Emergency Management Coordinator DATE: February 19, 2009 SUBJECT: Cool Aid Program -New Sponsors CORPORATE GOAL(S) REFERENCED: 1. To ensure fiscal responsibility and accountability 2. To forge community partnerships 3. To provide innovative and collaborative quality service 4. To recognize and seize opportunities for improvement INTRODUCTION: New sponsors have been found to fund another printing of the Cool Aid Program packages to ensure continued availablity of this program in Elgin County. DISCUSSION: A printing of 5000 Cool Aid Packages was sponsored by the Elgin Community Care Access Centre in 2005. At present, only several hundred packages remain for distribution and staff have worked to find new sponsors for the program. Staff is very pleased to inform Council that the independent pharmacies in Elgin County have joined together in sponsoring this most worthwhile program for the residents of Elgin County. In Aylmer, Hills Pharmacy started the funding ball rolling with a donation of $1500. Yurek Pharmacy Ltd. in St. Thomas followed with matching funding of $1500. Health Centre Pharmacy provided $1200 and West Elgin Pharmacy followed with $1000. As well, Highland Pharmacy pledged $1000 on behalf of the Port Stanley location and the Dutton location. This represents a total donation of $6200 from the independent pharmacies from across Elgin County in support of this most worthwhile program. The purpose behind the Cool Aid Program is to quickly provide vital medical and medication information to Paramedics and First Responders. With this information quickly at hand, everyone who works to save a life can work more efficiently with a greater probability of a successful outcome. The program uses a front door sticker alerting emergency workers of participation in the program and a pamphlet affixed to the refrigerator by magnet contains information regarding pre-existing medical conditions and medications being used. This ensures paramedics have the most complete information on a resident in distress. This is especially critical if the resident is unable to communicate the information effectively themselves. These packages are distributed by various means such as upon discharge from hospital, CCAC, Home Care, pharmacies, health unit, senior centres, EMS and Fire Services. CONCLUSION: The independent pharmacies of Elgin County through their financial support are sponsoring the printing of 4500 Cool Aid Program packages which enable Paramedics and First Reponders to quickly obtain vital medical information when responding to a call for help. Hills Pharmacy, Yurek Pharmacy, Health Centre Pharmacy, West Elgin Pharmacy and both Port Stanley and Dutton locations of Highland Parmacy together have contributed $6200 toward this worthwhile program. The County is very pleased that this group has joined together to the benefit of Elgin County residents. Correspondence indicating the County's appreciation of their support will be sent by staff. RECOMMENDATION: That the report titled "Cool Aid Program -New Sponsors" and dated February 19th, 2009 be received and filed as information. All of which is Respectfully Submitted Larys Andrusiak, Ambulance & Emergency Management Coordinator Approved f bmission Mark G. Chief Administrative Officer ~~ ~L(gia~'"d}""' REPORT TO COUNCIL rs.,,..~,° .w FROM: Jim Bundschuh -Director of Financial Services DATE: March 1, 2009 SUBJECT: 2009 Request for Grants and Loans INTRODUCTION: Attached is the 2009 Request for Grants and Loans requesting $362,800 in Grants, as well as $66,000 in additional Loans. DISCUSSION: The total amount requested for Grants for 2009 of $362,800 is an increase of $255,000 over last years approved amount, equating to further 1.2% levy increase over the preliminary 2009 Budget increase of 4.9%. The increase is predominately driven by a St. Thomas General Hospital Foundation request of $250,000. In comparison, only $25,000 was granted in 2008. There was an increase in the funding request for the St. Thomas -Elgin Art Centre from $20,000 to $30,000. Also, the final $10,000 payment to complete our $50,000 commitment made in 2004 to the upgrade of the YWCA's Women's Residence was not made in 2008, and the YWCA is requesting the County pay the remaining amount this year. Lastly, the Optimist Club of West Lorne is requesting the County consider a new grant to help their Club pay off the remaining $10,000 of debt on the West Lorne splash pad. The amount of requested additional loans of $63,000 would bring the total value of interest free loans granted by the County to $130,000. In March 2007, Council approved $100,000 loan to the Ontario Plowman's Association in support of the 2010 International Plowing Match & Rural Expo. The Plowman's Association is requesting our final instalment of $33,000 toward their $100,000 loan. The loan will be repaid after the completion of the International Plowing Match in 2010. In addition, the Photographic Society is requesting. $30,000 to enable them to publish Elgin's History Through a Photographer's Lens -Volume 2. The loan will be repaid out of the proceeds of sales of the book within a three year period. CONCLUSION: That the individual line items be considered for approval THAT the report titled 2009 Request for Grants and Loans be received and filed, and that Grants and Loans proceed as approved by Council. All of which is Respectfully Submitted ~_. 9 im Bundschuh Director of Financial Services Approved f baa+ssi Mark G. c onald Chief Administrative Officer COUNTY OF ELGIN GRANTS AND LOANS 2009 Budget Grants 1 Shedden Agricultural Society 2 Wallacetown Agricultural Society 3 Rodney-Aldborough Agricultural Society 4 Aylmer & East Elgin Agricultural Society 5 Elgin 4-H Association 6 Tillsonburg & District Multi-Service Centre 7 Quad County Support Services 8 Seniors Picnic 9 St. Thomas -Elgin Art Centre 10 Non-specific 11 Town Crier 12 Second Stage Housing 14 Elgin Community Nutrition Partnership 15 Elgin County Plowmen's Association 15 Med Quest Pilot Project 17 St. Thomas Elgin General Hosp. Foundation 18 St. Thomas Elgin General Hosp. Foundation 19 Dutton Medical Centre 20 Ontario 911 Advisory Board 21 East Ferris Flood Relief 22 YWCA 23 West Lorne Optimist Splash Pad Total 2009 (Higher)lLower 2008 Overage as a Percent of Levy Loans Ploughmen's Association Loan at 111/09 Added Loan for 2009 Total Plowmens Association Loan Photographic Society Loan at 1/1/09 Added Loan for 2009 Total Photographic Society Loan Total Loans at 1/1!09 Added Loans for 2009 2008 2009 4,500 4,500 4,500 4,500 4,500 4,500 7,500 7,500 2,000 2,000 4,500 4,500 2,000 2,000 2,500 2,500 20,000 30,000 5,000 4,000 2,000 2,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 200 200 3,500 3,500 25,000 25,000 each year 07 and OS 250,000 250,000/year 2009 - 2012 -deferred again 10,000 10,000 10,000 each year for three years 2008-2010 100 100 Council -September 11, 2007 1,000 Passed January 27, 2009 10,000 Paid in 2004-2007, missed final payment in 2008 10,000 107,800 362,800 (255,000) 1.2% 67,000 33,000 100,000 - Efgin's History Through a 30,000 Photographer's Lens -Vol 2 30,000 67,000 63,000 Total of All Loans 130,000 12/30/2008 15:05 5197649712 T~ V ~ / December 29. 200II DLAJ h1TLLER s ,4gucuturzae /'~acdet~y SIiEDDEN, Ontario NOL 2E0 County of Elgin Linda Veger, c*JA Director of pinancial Services 450 Sunset Drive ST. THOMAS, o,~t. N5R SV1 Dear Linda The Directoxe o£ the Shedden.~gricultuxal Society are requesting a grant of $4500 for the 2009 fair. This money swill go tocaaxde paying pxize money. tda appree3,ate the financial support the County of Elgin ha6 given to this fair. Yours truly ~~~ ~ ~ Shirley onghurs~ Secretary 1t~11 SOUTHWOLD NOL 2G0 PAGE 01 AYLMER & EAST ELGIN AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY THE AYLMER FAIR -IT'S ALL FOR YOU Secretary/Manger's Office Phone:519-773-3445 Fax: 519-773-3492 Website; www.avlmertair.c County of Elgin, 450 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas, ON, NSI25V1. Attention: Cotmty ofE[gin Council Dear Council: P.O, Box 192 Aylmer, ON N5H 2R9 ~~, 1;"~'-u is -:~ ~D ~~~'avrr~,~~cc~ Ml NI S ~ ,~ i 3 ~ (V~ ~ ~~ Y/ ~ ~ , ~ On behalf of dre Aylmer and East Elgin Agricultural Society, I would like to drank the County o£ Eight for their support of the Aylmer Fair over the years. In 2009 we are preparhtg for the 163"' Amoral Aylmer Fair - an i,rcredibiy long tradition of celebrating and promoting the history and heritage of agriculture ht this area. The Fair benefits the agriculhtral cotnmtmity by encouraging improvements in production and marketing, but it also benefits rho urban community by increasing their understanding of the importance of agriculture ht their lives. The Aylmer Fair also htcreases the tourism dollars being spent in our area. The members of the Aylmer and East Elgin Agricultural Society workvery hard to produce a successful Fair -ono which both educates and entertains - but we need your help. We would appreciate it if the Council would consider dte financial needs of the Aylmer Fair when yon are preparingyour budget. The Fair Board fund raises allyear round, and this year has initiated an effort to dramafically increase sponsorship ofthe Fair. Webelieve drat the Aylmer Fair is especially important to the County of Elgin, and that it brings significant tourism dollars into toxin. Your support will help to make the 163`d Aylmer Fair a terrific success. Thank you for your catsideraHon. See you at the Fair! Sincerely, Devern Chmamey SecrotarylManager. Encl: 2008 Financial Statements January S, 2009 County of Elgin, 4S0 Sunset Drive, St.Thomas, On. NSR SVl Attn: Linda Veger: Firstly, I wish to acknowledge and thank you for your recent donation of $2000.00 to our association. As well, I would like to request you consider us in your budget for the 2009 year. We offer a great program to the Elgin youth and feel we are furthering the education of these young people while having fun at so many fun events. Our annual award program shows great strides that the members have achieved each year and we wish to continue to be able to offer programs for them. We would appreciate any financial support you could give us as we work with the members in 2009. Thanks in advance for consideration. ~a. f ~~a..L•_~-~~a.af~_. Pat Palmer, Secretary 9712 John St., Shedden, On. NOL 2EO Tillsonburg & District IUlultioService Centre (iUISC) Phone: (699} 842-9000 The Livingston Centre Fax; (899} 842-4727 g6 Tillson Avenue, Tillsonburg, ON N4G 3A1 Email: msc~oci.net www.fhelivlnastoncentre.com December 15, 2008 Warden Sylvia Hofhuis & County Council, County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St Thomas ON N5R 5V1 Dear Warden, Council Members & County Staff: 0 ~~01 Thirty years have gone by so quickly! As we enter our 31st year of operations, the Multi-Service Centre (MSC} would like to, once again, update you on the positive impact the Adult Basic Literacy program is having in the lives of Elgin County residents. Thank you, as well, for the grant of $4,500.00 this year. Those dollars were earmarked for program delivery. The MSC Adult Basic Literacy program has been a part of the Multi-Service Centre since 1987, and has provided 113,657 hours of direct assistance to students overthose 21 years. One trend program personnel have witnessed over those years is the increasing importance of literacy skills linked to employability - especially noteworthy this year in light of local economic conditions. We are requesting your consideration in upcoming budget deliberations. The Ministry of Training, Colleges & Universities funds a portion of the required budget. However, MSC Adult Basic Literacy must raise additional funds every year in order to meet needs. We attempt to raise those additional dollars (this year $39,387.00) through municipal grants (from some of our surrounding municipalities), fundraisers (e.g., the Food & Farce held every February), draws, and our annual donor campaign. The bulk of the dollars we raise goes toward providing instruction to students, volunteer support (recruitment, training, orientation, ongoing supervision) and the purchase of materials (tutor references and student library resources). The MSC Adult Basic Literacy program has 2.39 full-time equivalent staff and, at present, 71 volunteer tutors. Mission A community organ/zatlon committed fo suppwting personallndependence through: + InnovatNa and responsive resources +Padnershtps and collaboration • Sldvtng for excellence Vlslon Embraclny Personal Independence + Celebrating a Caring Community The amount we need to fundraise to support AREA students, linked to the proportion of the students assisted so far from Elain in 2008(09, would amount to 5 514.00. Any suppore you could provide would be appreciated. Please see the attached statistics sheet. The base budget from the Ministry remains stable but has not increased for ten years -even though contact hours increased by 43% between fiscal year 2003!04 and 2004/05 and demand remains high. Our Municipal Grants Presentation Team would be happy to make a presentation to Elgin County Council -it's been awhile! Municipal dollars help us to diversify and leverage our funding base and we enjoy the opportunity to appear before Council, explain our needs, and answer any questions. In an era of shrinking/status quo base budgets, local support is truly valued. We have appreciated past support from the County of Elgin over the years and hope that you will continue to consider the MSC Adult Basic Literacy program in upcoming budget deliberations. We know these are difficult times! Marlene Pink Maureen Vandenberghe Executive Director Communications & Development Coordinator N1=GVt ('J~wa~snt~ ~ ~~~ "P" v ~~.4-~7 ~-t~G ~G2 u~ ~-e~ .~~P.i~ltee~> ~ C: Wendy Woodhouse, Adult Basic Literacy Coordi ator (MSC) p Treasurer, County of Elgin ° Tillsonburg & District ~ 1~~~ Mufti-Service Centre Statistics: Elgin April -September 2008: Adult Basic Literac Comparison figures from fiscal year Apri12007 to March 2008 (total geoaranhtc area served): * Number of Students; 187 **. Hours of Service: 6,926 Comparison figures from fiscal year April 2008 to September 2008 (total eonranhic area servedl: * Number of Students: 150 ** Hours of Service: 3,913.25 Program and Outcomes information Adult Basic Literacy (MSC) Program Statistics and Facts: - Adult Basic Literacy (MSC) has been serving the community since .1987. - Woodstock service delivery began in the Autumri of 2000, with the support of the Ministry of Training, Colleges and. Universities, and as a result of the Oxford Literacy Community Planning process, which identified a need in the Woodstock area. - Student progress is measured using a system called Literacy Basic Skills. Literacy Basic Skill Levels (LBS) are standards developed by the Ministry of.Training, Colleges and Universities. There are five standards -roughly equivalent to grades 1 to 12. The MSC ABL program serves those clients that are primarily at levels 1 and 2. - The program originally started with one-to-one student/tutor matches. In addition to ..providing volunteer tutors to students, the program offers small classes, computer upgrading and on-line learning opportunities. - Every year the program must raise funds, independent of Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities funding, This is done through request for Municipal Grant support, fundraising events, ticket sales and donations. - 82% of students were assessed at a literacy lave( of comparable Grade 4 or less. - 69.3% of students enter the program with an employment goal related to literacy. - 50% of students were employed upon program registration. - 62.9% of students were employed or in further education/training/upgrading upon exit. - 7.41 % of students were employed and no longer receiving Employment Insurance or financial assistance from Ontario Works upon program exit. - 50.67 %of students are in the 25 to 44 age group. - 30% of students are in.the 45 to 64 age group. Quad County Support Services ( Malling Address: P. O. Box b5, Wardsvllle, Ontmlo, NOL 2N0 Telephone 5i9-693-4812 Poz 519-693-%055 December 12, 2008 ~~~ ©~C 19 200$ Warden Graham Warwick County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario N5RSV1 COUNTY OF IiLGIN ~UMINICTAATNE SERVIC~~ Deat Warden Warwick and Council Members: Please give consideration to Quad County Support Services' application requesting a grant in the amount of $2,000.00. Our Association began to offer services in 1963 to families residing in the western portion of Elgin County whose sorts or daughters were diagnosed with a developmental disability. Demand for services contitme to grow and with fixed costs rising at a very rapid rate our funding body the Ministry of Community and Social Services did provide a small increase this fiscal year but did not meet our bttdgetaty commitments. `Your support and approval of our request is vital in ensurhtg that we can deliver the needed supports to our consumers now and in the future. As in previous years we are requesting fnranclal assistance fiom the four counties we serve based on a prorated formula. Middlesex 2,500.00 Elgin 2,000.00 Municipality of Chatham-Kent 1,500.00 Lambton _ Dawn-Euphemia 330.00 -Brooke-Alvinston 330.00 Quad County Support Services operates the following programs located in Wardsville: the Community Employment Options, the Resource Centre and a Supported Employment Option for individuals working in local businesses throughout our catchment area. Our Residential Services operates a Supported Independent Living Program for those individuals who reside in Glencoe and West Lorne as well; we offer an activity drop in program for individuals 4vho reside in the Dutton area. The above programs provide services to a total of 70 individuals. The Association shares an office in West T,orne with a group of service providers under the umbrella of West Elgin Support Services. AD6!INISIRATION OFFICES 195 Rlellington SL 1'fordsville, Ontorio NOL 2N0 519 693-4812 519; 693-7055 (Fax) RESOURCE CENiFR 205 Talbot Streel IVardsville, Ontario NOL 2N0 (519) 693-4478 (519) 693-4478 (fox) ~ C06!61UNfIY E1dPL0Y6fENT OP-ONS ' 191 Queen Streel 1'lordsvd!e, Ontario NOL 2N0 {519) 693-4929 RESID6YTNl SERVICES 203 3Jain Street G!encos, Ontario NOL 1610 (519) 287-2306 (519) 287-5905 (iaz) page 2 QCSS Giaut application Our funding body the Ministry of Community and Social Services provides 100% funding for three of the programs we operate and 70% funding for the Community Employment Options. This program is required to generate the 30% shortfall tiuough their industrial contracts. As well, our Administration hudget has a 7% shortfall that the Ministry does not fund and our Association is providing the resources for this shortfall. To continue to maintain the present Ievel of service individuals receive our Association will require additional sources of funding. The grants we have been fortunate to receive in previous years have been extremely helpful in meeting our hudgetaty requirements. If you require any additional information, please feel free to contact ma at 693-4924 or 693-4812. Thank you for your time and consideration in this matter. Sincerely, ~~ i ~~~ Mrs. Lyn Moniz Corresponding Secretary Quad County Support Services Board of Directors dOSfIP;ISTRTTION OFFICES RESOURCE CENTER COld!dUt!(IY EI,1Pt0Y1dENT OPTIONS t95 Vlellinglon Sk. 205 T°I6ot Street 191 Oueen Slreel V'f°rdsville, Ontario R'°rdsville, Ontario 17ordsville, Ontario I;OL 2N0 NOL 2N0 NOL 2N0 (519) 693-4812 ((5S9jj 693-4978 (519) 693-4929 (519) 693-7055 (Fox) (St9) 693-4478 (toz) RESIOEt9tIAt SERVICES 203 t!oin Slreel Ofenaoe, Ontario NOL tE!0 519) 2B7-2306 519) 287-5905 (lox) St. Thomas-Elgir Pl1LI 301 Talbot Street,St,Thomas, ON N5P 165 519.631.4040 Fax 519.631.4057 December 14, 2008 Linda Veger Director of Financial Services County of Elgin Far: Warden Sylvia Hofhuis and Members of County Council C/O Elgin County Administrative Office 450 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas, Ontario. N5R 6V1 Re: St. Thomas -Elgin Public Rrt Centre Grant Request of 30 000.00 for 2009. Warden Sylvta Hofhuis and Members of County Council: On behalf of the Board of Directors and Staff of the St Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre, would like to thank you for the recognition and financial support you have invested in our organization over the years. Your yearly contributions enable us to plan for and deliver quality programs and exhibittons, exemplify our mutual commitment to the arts and education. The St. Thomas-Elgin Pub11c Art Centre has experienced another remarkable year, We have continued strengthening and developing partnerships with all arts and heritage organizations in Elgin County with valuable partnerships with the Elgin County Archive and the Elgin County Museum. We continue to meet with the cultural organizations quarterly to better promote each other. The necessity and the importance for greater cultural resources, communication and services in Elgin County should require little debate. The Importance of a culturally enhanced society is well researched and documented. It is the mission of the St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre to educate and promote the arts in St. Thomas and Elgin County. With our visitor numbers again reaching record amounts in 2008, It is evident that there need for arts and culture in our Community. I have included a summary of the extensive exhlbttion and event programming we offered in 2008. I have also enclosed a copy of the St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre's projected budget for 2009 to better inform you of the relevance of our increased request for the annual grant of $30,000.00. Thank you for you kind consideration of this request and t would welcome the opportunity to further discuss our proposal whit Council. Respectf Ily, ~~ ~ ~ L ra Woermke Executive Director St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre W WW,S$G'pi2C,CS COlllty CO~~~~~ 3 ~ come to December 15, 2008 Elgin County Council 450 Sunset Dnive St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 5V1 Dear Warden Warwick and County Councillors: r,%x-, - r ~~f, i <`r ~Ofli~ co~rorv ©r ~c~i~ aa~iNisr~Ariv~ s~~vi~~s I would like to take this opportunity to recognize your support of Student Nutrition Programs in our area. Thanks to your generous grant this year, the Elgin Community Nutrition Partnership will continue to ensure students attend school well-nourished and ready to learn. Your $5,000 grant will allow us to support 33 area schools offerhtg students a healthy breakfast or nutritious snack each morning. At this time, we are serving almost 7,000 students daily and given the economic downturn in Elgin and St. Thomas we expect this number to rise. Since all of our programs are universal, that is, any student who chooses to participate is always welcome, the opportunity to provide shrdents with the best start to their day has benefits both in and outside of the classroom. By combining healthy food with nutrition information The Elgin Community Nutrition Partnership helps students recognize the importance of developing lifelong healthy eating habits. It is our hope that you will continue to support our mission and consider a request of $5,000 from The Elgin Cormnurity Nutrition Partnership in your 2009 allocations. Should you need any additional information please feel free to contact me. Once again, tharic you for helping the students in Elgin County "eat right to be bright". Sincerely •~ Charlotte McDonald Program Coordinator 519-631-3159 ext. 277 cmcdonald@elginhealth.on.ca Mr. Allen Millman, Secretary-Treasurer Elgin County Plowmen's Association R, R. # 4 45399 Sparta line St. Thomas, Ontario N5P 3S8 December 29, 2008 County of Elgin Clerk-Treasurer 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, ON N5R 5V1 Dear Council Members: V L4 c~~~"s (}, G,~~ ct try_ JAI ° 2 2009 ~j~tr~r~a~~crai~ ~~~t~is~•~~riv~s~~vic~~ On behalf of the Elgin County Plowmen's Association I wish to thank you #or the grant of $200.00 which you have provided in previous years for our Plowing Match. We are requesting a grant of $200.00 from you to assist us to carry on with the 2009 County Plowing Match to be held on September 12, 2009 at a site yet to be determined. This Plowing Match is a county wide event which draws participants and spectators from not only Elgin, but from surrounding counties as well. Approximately 1000 people aifend our Match each year and we are noted for our unique mini tented city. We have appreciated your support in fhe past and trust that we can count on it again this year. Yours sincerely, Allen G. Millman E~~111~t~~:t1~~:~ January 29, 2009 Mayor William Vrebosch Township of East Ferris 390 Highway 94 CORBEIL, Ontario POH 1K0 Dear Mayor Vrebosch: The Council for the Corporation of the County of Elgin adopted the following resolution at its meeting held on January 27, 2009: "THAT the Corporation of the County of Elgin donate $1,000.00 to the Township of East Ferris (for the East FerrislBonfie(d Flood Relief Fund) towards the severe flood damage caused in the Townships by the rainstorms in August 2008. Carried. (signed) Warden Graham Warwick" The members of Elgin County Council wish you every success with your fundraising efforts and trusts fhat ifs contribution will be leveraged with provincial assistance to help in the recovery. Yours Mark G. McDonald, Chief Administrative Officer, attachment cc Mayor Narry McCarthy, Township of Bonfield Jim Bundschuh, Director of Financial Services AtlminlstratlvenSbrvices 450 Sunset Orh~a St. Thomas, On N5R 5V1 Phone: 6395311480 vnwuelgintountyan.q ,~_.- ~~ ~~ ~ ~ ~ ~ _ ~ ~ ~ S1'.~'NOt•9A5,Er.Gi~d r Providing leadership, advocacy, opportunities, and evoice --- ompouvering women fs~1iU/~ ~~~Qr~ EI,~tN A~IUE SEAVICEE December 18, 2008 Jim Bundschuh, Director of Financial Sezvices County ofEIgin 450 Sunset Dr. St. Thomas ON,NSRSVI Dear Mr. Bundschuh: On behalf of the YWCA of St. Thomas --Elgin, please accept this application for consideration of funding from the County of Elgin for the year 2009. As you may be aware, the County of Elgin has demonstrated support for the YWCA and its programs, particularly the Women's Residence, by providing funding to repair and upgrade our building at 16 Mazy St.. West in St, Thomas. Our anginal request was granted foz' 2004 and we were approved for $50,000 which was to be paid out in $10,000 increments. Our fizst $10,000 went to purchase and install an air conditioning unit for our Women's Residence which provides emergency, short tezm and long term housing to lord income vvomen. Over the next three years the allocation received was put aside toFVards the purchase of new windows, These dollars 4vere augmented with other grants and donations that we received and the promise of these funds from the County of Elgin allowed the YWCA to obtain othei funding to supportt our overall upgrades and repairs. In 2008 we were expecting our final installment of $10,000 towards the windows which would have allowed us to complete this project. Unfortunately we did not receive the fmaI installment. When checking into this with Ms.Veger she indicated that she had in ez7or, assumed that we were through with the project and were using the dollars for operations. When I clarified with her that this was not correct she advised me to submit this request for the final installment of this project for 2009. The cost of the windows we still need to replace come to approximately $45,000. This final installment of $10,000 from the County of Elgin will allow us to complete this project. The Y WCA St Thomas-Elgin has been supporting the needs of women and their families who are facing orisis in ozzr community for over 105 years. Today the women who ace coming to us have fewer resources and often gzeater needs. We are committed to finding ways to assist these women that need our sezvices. Last year at the YWCA Women's, we provided close to 500 nights of emergency housing to women and our average length of stay for transitional housing is on the rise. ~, A United Way Ardency 16 Mary Street W, St. -(-homas, Ontario, Canada N5P'LS3 (519} 631-3800 www:ywcastthomaselgin.org This support is making a tremendous difference to our programs and the windows in particular will assist us in lowering our utility bills and provide a much more comfortable environment for our residents, clients and staff. Other programs in our building include our Adult Education programs which provides services to "hard to serve" clients. These are individuals who have multiple barriers that they struggle with on a day to day basis. Many come from families where the cycle of poverty, mental health issues, low self esteem and poor life skills have been passed from oue generation to the other. This year we will be developing and implementing an Immigration Settlement Adaptation Program through our Language Instruction to Newcomer's Program. Drop-In Recreational programs for youth, child care and employment training programs are also offered at our facility and throughout the County. Over the years we have provided you with quotes from Talbotville Windows. We still plan on using them as our contractors. Their quotes have always been the lowest for the same product and service. I£you need another quote please let us know and we will be happy to get one to you. Again, we wish to thank you, and the Council for your ongoing support of maintaining and improving the effectiveness and efficiency of our building. If you have any questions at all, please do not hesitate to contact us. Sincerely, ~rx~Gr~i~vv Sandi Pyper Board President Welch Champion five Director Ce: Graham Warwick, Warden County of Elgin E7B---z4-es { TUE 9:29 WEST ELGIN MOTORS U~itl~'r.ist Club of ~Y'~st I,orrrtc~, Irrc~„ 4S~-~ ~1 Goui-~y of l;lgln ~hta vial Services 4,50 upset Ar. Sc'1 ~amtts, ON N$t2i5V1 I Attc~dan Mr.Jirn Bundschuh Febniary 23, 2009 Itt; il~ J i tn, 7"he )ptimist Club of West I,oate have installed a splash pad 1n West Lorne In 2008 At the e tst of $130,000. With the help of grants, private donatipns, fundraising by our club attd artous other methnds, we ]rave paid off all but $10,040. We have exhtlusted our area, of raising more titnds to pay off our debt and wero wondering If the Counly of F,Igii would considerhelptngus. Our ~xu•pose for installing this splash pad was fox West Lorne to have a water xcaated activity. Since we are a small village without a swimming pool, we thought this newest ~rit1~• activity would be just the answer. We were focusing On youth with specia- needs who~ould not access a regular swimming pool, for whatever reason. The splash pad 'ts whc`TRlchair apcessible and does not require a lifeguard, as there is no staudipg water. The nc4ire~st pad that dons not charge admission is St.Thomas or London, and that makes ii hnrditor people to access that does not have transportation. The Municipality of West Elgin has allowed us to put the splash pad In ]vli(ler park in Wes i.orne, and have been supportive throughout this project. Thsn}k you for your three and cgnsideration. I can be reached at t~•~li hitloiZ4:~s~7nG~ttlico;cg Xau s in Optimism, ~.~~ ~~. Kad~y Johnston, chairperson P.O, Box 61 West Lorne, ON NOl ?PO \'~~t A member of 5~~~."'~hr over thirty years P . 0 1 ~1~1111L1Il~:y P,o.,~,,;,:.e,~.<.,. REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Mark G. McDonald Chief Administrative Officer DATE: February 27, 2009 SUBJECT: Day Services LHIN Service Accountability Agreement INTRODUCTION: The LHIN has provided the Service Accountability Agreement for Day Services which sets out the terms and conditions for funding of the program. This report requests Council approval for the signing of this Agreement. DISCUSSION /CONCLUSION: The South West Local Health Integration Network (LHIN) has agreed to provide funding for the Adult Day Program. This program is coordinated through the City of St. Thomas with one site location in St. Thomas and two sites in Elgin County. The sites are Valleyview Home, Terrace Lodge and Bobier Villa. This program provides support and activities to residents of St. Thomas and Elgin County which are responsive to the unique physical, cognitive and social needs and values of participants and consist of the Alzheimer, Frail Elderly and Young Adult Programs. The Service Accountability Agreement for Day Services is a two-year Agreement for funding, expiring March 31, 2011. It has been reviewed by staff and it is recommended that Council grant approval for the Warden and Chief Administrative Officer to sign the Agreement for funding. RECOMMENDATION: THAT the Warden and Chief Administrative Officer be authorized to sign the Service Accountability Agreement for Day Services with the South West Local Health Integration Network effective April 1, 2009 and expiring March 31, 2011. ALL of which is respectfully submitted, Mark Chief Adm CORRESPONDENCE -March 10, 2009 Items for Consideration 1. Harry Pelissero, General Manager, Egg Farmers of Ontario, seeking the County's support for the Egg Farmers of Ontario's motion promoting the purchase of eggs produced in Ontario as a preferred local and sustainable procurement practice. (ATTACHED) 2. Martin de Rond, Director of Legislative & Information Services/Town Clerk, Town of Ajax, with a resolution which will provide all Provincial municipalities with the authority to prohibit Corporate and Trade Union Contributions to Municipal Election Campaigns. (ATTACHED) 3. Angie Hache, City Clerk, City of Greater Sudbury, with a resolution requesting the provincial government to take immediate action and pass legislation that will regulate and provide resources to monitor all retirement homes. (ATTACHED) EGG FARMERS sari 7195 Millcreek Drive, Mississauga, ON LSN 4HI rnone 90S-8S8-9790 rsx: 90S-SS8-1589 wee: www.getcracking.ca February 10, 2009 tai m~`srr~ ~~ ~ r..a.' To: Warden Sylvia Hofhuis and Members of Council Cc: Clerk of the County of Elgin FEB 1 ~ 2009 County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive CflI~NTY OF ELGIN St. Thomas, ON, N5R5V1 ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES Dear Warden Hofhuis and Members of Council: As consumers embrace the "100 Mile Diet" and seek ways of buying food that is produced close to home, Egg Farmers of Ontario is proud to say eggs purchased from Ontario grocery store shelves travel from farm to table in approximately 4 to 7 days. Last month, Egg Farmers of Ontario (EFO) provided rural municipalities, including those in the County of Elgin, with a motion that promotes the purchase of eggs as a preferred local and sustainable procurement. See motion enclosed. To date, two municipalities in the County of Elgin -the Town of Aylmer and the Township of Southwold -have passed our motion. We are pleased to report the above mentioned municipalities are two of 69 from across Ontario who have also supported the Egg Farmers of Ontario motion. Please see over the page for a complete list of council support. We respectfully request the County of Elgin join its local municipalities and the County of Hastings by supporting Egg Farmers of Ontario's motion. Although times and technology have changed, the level of care today's modern egg farmers give to their hens remains the same. Egg farmers across Ontario are proud of their contribution to the health and economy of local communities like the County of Elgin. If you have any questions about the attached motion or about egg farming in general we would welcome the opportunity to provide you with more information. Please feel free to contact me at 905-858-9790 for more information. We will be contacting your office in the coming weeks to request an opportunity to meet with you to discuss this in more detail. Sincerely, Harry Pelissero General Manager Egg Farmers of Ontario c MOTION WHEREAS the County of Elgin supports practices that contribute to the creation of a sustainable environment; AND WHEREAS Ontario egg farmers currently provide our community with fresh, locally produced Grade A eggs which travel from farm to table in 4 to 7 days; AND WHEREAS Ontario egg farmers take pride in caring for their hens while offering consumers a variety of egg choice; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the current procurement practice of eggs by the County of Elgin, produced by Ontario egg farmers, be identified as the preferred local sustainable procurement practice. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the purchase of all Ontario eggs contributes to the creation of a sustainable environment in which consumers and farmers benefit. Municipalities that have Passed the EFO Motion 1. Township of Stirling-Rawdon (Hastings) 2. Township of Tyendinaga (Hastings) 3. Township of Howick (Huron) 4. Township of Brooke-Alvinston (Lambton) 5. Township of Front of Yonge (Leeds and Grenville) 6. Township of Rideau Lakes (Leeds and Grenville) 7. Township of Addington Highlands (Lennox and Addington) 8. Township of McNab-Braeside (Renfrew) 9. Township of Wellesley (Waterloo) 10. Town of Petrolia (Lambton) 11. Municipality of Thames Centre (Middlesex) 12. Township of East Hawkesbury (Prescott Russell) 13. Township of Uxbridge (Durham) 14. Township of Central Frontenac (Frontenac) 15. Town of Aylmer (Elgin) 16. Town of Plympton-Wyoming (Lambton) 17. Municipality of Trent Hills (Northumberland) 18. Town of Hawkesbury (Prescott Russell) 19. Township of Hamliton (Northumberland) 20. Town of Amherstburg (Essex) 21. Township of Horton (Renfrew) 22. Town of Wasaga Beach (Simcoe) 23. Municipality of Arran-Elderslie (Bruce) 24. Township of Essa (Simcoe) 25. Town of East Gwillimbury (York) 26. Township of Drummond-North Elmsley (Lanark) 27. Town of Pelham (Niagara) 28. The Nation Municipality (Prescott and Russell) 29. Township of Russell (Prescott and Russell) 30. Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands (Leeds and Grenville) 31. Township of Lake of Bays (Muskoka) 32. Town of Ingersoll (Oxford) 33. Town of Hanover (Grey) 34. Municipality of St. Charles (Sudbury) 35. Township of Smith-Ennismore- Lakefield (Peterborough) 36. Municipality of Brighton (Northumberland) 37. Town of Goderich (Huron) 38. Township of Clearview (Simcoe) 39. Township of Huron-Kinloss (Bruce) 40. Township of South-West Oxford (Oxford) 41. Township of Alfred and Plantagenet (Prescott and Russell) 42. Township of Amaranth (DUfferin) 43. Township of Southwold (Elgin) 44. Township of Havelock-Belmont- Methuen (Peterborough) 45. Municipality of Morris-Turnberry (Huron) 46. Municipality of Tweed (Hastings) 47. Township of South Dundas (Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry) 48. Township of South Stormont (Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry) 49. Town of Perth (Lanark) 50. Municipality of Centre Hastings (Hastings) 51. Town of Caledon (Peel) 52. Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake (Niagara) 53. Township of North Stormont (Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry) 54. Township of Warwick (Lambton) 55. Township of Athens (Leeds and Grenville) 56. Town of South Bruce Peninsula (Bruce) 57. Municipality of Hastings Highlands (Hastings) 58. Municipality of West Grey (Grey) 59. Town of Bancroft (Hastings) 60. Township of Enniskillen (Lambton) 61. Township of Carlow/Mayo (Hastings) 62. Town of Greater Napanee (Lennox and Addington) 63. Municipality of Brockton (Bruce) 64. Township of Cramahe (Northumberland) 65. Town of Tecumseh (Essex) 66. Township of Wainfleet (Niagara) 67. Town of Midland (Simcoe) 68. Township of Galway-Cavendish- Harvey (Peterborough) 69. County of Hastings* ®Town of By the Lake Honourable Jim Watson Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing 77Z Bay Street, 17~' Floor Toronto, Ontario M5G 2E5 February 10, 2009 Dear Minister Watson TOWN OF AJAX 65 Harwood Avenue South Ajax ON L1S2H9 www.townofajax.com RE: AJAX COUNCIL RESOLUTION -AUTHORITY TO PROHIBIT CORPORATE AND TRADE UNION CONTRIBUTIONS TO MUNICIPAL ELECTION CAMPAIGNS At their meeting February 9, 2009, Ajax Town Council received a presentation from Professor Robert MacDermid, who provided an overview of tha research and conclusions outlined in his recent paper "Funding City Politics". Professor MacDermid commended Ajax Council for their leadership in municipal campaign finance reform and practices. Professor MacDermid's full report is available at www.votetoronto.ca. Upon considering this presentation, Council passed the following resolution: Moved by: Regionat Councillor Jordan Seconded by; Councillor Dies WHEREAS the Municipal Elections Act, 1996 enables individuals normally resident in Ontario, corporations that carry on business in Ontario and unions that haid bargaining rights for employees in Ontario to make contributions of up to $750 in total to any candidate for all municipal offices, with the exception of candidates for Mayor of Toronto who are permitted to accept maximum individual contributicns of $2,500; and, WHEREAS the Municipal Elections Act, 1996 [S. 70.1(1)] provides that the City of Toronto alone "may by by-law prohibit a corporation that carries orrbusiness in Ontario or a trade union that holds bargaining rights for employees in Ontario from making a contribution to or for any candidate for an office on city council."; and, W HEREAS a recent study by Prof. Robert MacDermid, titled "Funding City Politics", examined financial contributions to municipal election campaigns in the Greater Toronto Area and, in particular, raised issues with respect to the amount and potential influence of contributions from land and property development corporations; and, Ontnrio's Firs3 ISO 9001 Qunttty Communif~ WHEREAS no corporate or trade union contributions to municipal candidates and parties have been permitted in Quebec since 1984; both Quebec and Manitoba have banned corporate and union contributions to Prov(ncial candidates and parties; and all such contributions were prohibited from federal elecforai politics prior to the last Canadian election; BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Government of Ontario be requested to amend the Municipal Elecfions Acf, 9996 to provide all municipalities in the Province with the authority to pass a by-law that would prohibit a corporation chat carries on business in Ontario or a trade union that holds bargaining rights for employees in Ontario from making a contribution to or for any candidate for an office on the respective municipal council. Please review Professor MacDermid's report and enact legislation that will provide the requested authority to all municipalities in the Province. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. ~~f~ Martin de Rond, Director of Legislative & Information Services/Town Clerk cc. Joe Dickson, MPP Ali Ontario Municipalif(es Prof. Robert MacDermid AMO Council B. Skinner, CAO City ofGreater Sudbury Ville du Grand Sudbury Greater I Grand February 26, 2009 All Ontario Municipalities Re: Regulation and Provision of Resources to Monitor Retirement Homes PO BOX 500 STN A 200 BRAUY STRBBT The following resolution #2009-65 was passed by Council of the City of suDBUxYONPaASPS Greater Sudbury on February 11, 2009: CP500 SUCC A su~bs~roNr3ASra WHEREAS in 2001 the Mayor and Council's Roundtable on Seniors' Issues recognized the need to regulate rest and retirement homes; AND WHEREAS a working group of the Mayor and Council's 705-671-2489 Roundtable on Seniors' Issues was established in September 2001 www.greatersndbury.ca and since that time the working group has gathered information and w~vw.grandsudbnry.ca feedback from municipal officials and received input from privately owned retirement homes, advisory groups, residents and families; AND WHEREAS the 2006 Ontario budget stated "the Government will continue to improve efficiency and accountability by engaging in formal consultations in 2006/2007, through the Ontario's Seniors' Secretariat, with the goal of establishing a new regulatory framework- for strengthening standards of care in Ontario's retirement homes"; AND WHEREAS the Assistant Deputy Minister, Mr. Geoff Quirt, met with the Mayor and Council's Roundtable on Seniors' Issues in 2006; AND WHEREAS the findings of the consultation which were distributed in April 2007 recommended the need to regulate retirement homes; AND WHEREAS to date it appears that the Provincial Government has made no progress in implementing legislation to address this need; AND WHEREAS there have been recent incidents that have resulted in residents of retirement homes being placed in life threatening situations such as a recent fire in Orillia that resulted in the unfortunate death and hospitalization of many residents THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Council of the City of Greater Sudbury lobby all Ontario municipalities to have the Ontario provincial government take immediate action and pass the legislation that will regulate and provide resources to monitor all retirement homes and provide a safe home environment to those seniors who are most vulnerable; ...2 -2- AND THAT this resolution be forwarded to The Honourable Rick Bartolucci, M.P.P., Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services. Yours truly !-~Q Gam. /fb Angie Hache City Clerk cc: Councillor Ted Callaghan, Co-Chair, Mayor and Council's Advisory Panel on Seniors' Issues Anadel Hastie, Co-Chair, Mayor and Council's Advisory Panel on Seniors' Issues G. Forget-Rose, Community Development Co-ordinator DISCLAIMER This material is provided under contract as a paid service by the originating organization and does not necessarily reflect the view or positions of the Association of Municipalities of Ontado (AMO), its subsidiary companies, officers, directors or agents. CORRESPONDENCE -March 10, 2009 Items for Information (Consent Agenda) Anne Kenny & Sandra Datars Bere, 2008 Public Service Co-Chairs of the Elgin- St. Thomas United Way campaign, thanking the County for their generous support. (ATTACHED) 2. Dan Hefkey, Assistant Deputy Minister and Chief, Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services, congratulating the County on the completion of the mandatory emergency management activities. (ATTACHED) 3. Hon. Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Foreign Affairs, replying to Council's concern of the measures being taken to protect the integrity of Canada's freshwater resources. (ATTACHED) 4. Joe Preston, Member of Parliament, Elgin-Middlesex-London, with copy of correspondence from Minister of Finance acknowledging receipt of Council's views and recommendations in advance of Budget 2009. (ATTACHED) Hon. Steve Peters, M.P.P., Elgin-Middlesex-London, expressing disappointment in the CRTC's decision to not grant a local FM radio license that would have served the St. Thomas area. (ATTACHED) 6. Mayor Cliff Barwick, City of St. Thomas, acknowledging the County of Elgin as official winner of annual City-County United Way Challenge. (ATTACHED) 7. AMO Member Communication ALERT: 1) "AMO Report to Members on January 2009 Board Meeting"; and 2) "Minister Smitherman on Infrastructure and Green Energy Act". (ATTACHED) Ron Sapsford, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, outlining ministry expenditure restraints. (ATTACHED) Deborah Bissett and Dino Radocchia, Co-Chairs of the Building Canada Fund, announcing Government funding for Rehabilitation of Calton Line, Project #23064. (ATTACHED) 10 Therese Kwapis, Community Liaison Coordinator, Central Community Health Centre, with a Central Community Health Centre Press Release. (ATTACHED) 11. Randy Millard, C.A.O./Clerk, Township of Malahide, congratulating the County on their Economic Development Marketing Awards. (ATTACHED) 12. Premier Dalton McGuinty, Premier of Ontario, acknowledging Council's concerns regarding home care. 1-!WU G ~ Z~~J CU~13j i V C~ ELCI~! ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES 300 South Edgeware Rd., St. Thomas, ON NSP 4L1 Tel: 519-631-3171 Fax: 519b31-9253 www, sttho m a sun i to dway. ca office@stlhomasuni tedway.ca Registered Charity No. 11889 7107 R0001 I believe in my community. l b~lie~~ae that its ~ug~e~~a ~l~l?£°X4Y~~ S3#? the people muh~a ltv~. in lt. That everyone has something to contribute. That a~er`~at~~ ~les~r*tas repeat. That everyone's potential can be realized. Th>tst aversity €s ~€ltal, That every person has value. That e+rer~arae a€seds belle aa~al ~:~€eryxane ceat~ ~~~ar belle. That a safe, supportive community is everyone's responsibility. January 23, 2009 Warden Graham Warwick County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, ON N5R 5V1 Dear Warden Warwick, On behalf of the members of the Public Service Division of the Elgin-St. Thomas United Way Campaign Cabinet we would like to thank the County of Elgin for your most generous support. By now you are probably aware that'the 2008 Elgin St. Thomas United Way campaign exceeded its $800,000 goal by $44,792. Your organization's donations and payroll pledges significantly contributed to that achievement. i At a time when our area has lost thousands of manufacturing jobs, our public service workers dug a little deeper to help those agencies that provide so many services and that help all Elgin residents at some time or other. Please pass on our gratitude to all your employees. We're also pleased to tell you that your contributions put you in the Top Ten of the Public Service Division! Thank You! ~~ Anrie Kenny, 2008 Public Service Co-Chair ". I Sandra Datars Bere 2008 Public Service Co-Chair l Fseti~+~~: ia~ perss~ibllltta - .o f rC: f~3 i ~ 2U09 Ministry of Community Safety Ministi•re de la SBcuritS commmiautaire and Correctional Services et des Services correctionuels Emergency Management Ontario Gestion des situations d'urgence Ontario 77 Wellesley Street West 77, rue Wellesley Ouest Box 222 C.P. 222 Toronto ON M7A 1N3 Toronto ON M7A 1N3 Office of the ADM and Chief Telephone/T8lephone Facsimile/ T8lecopieur E-mail File ReferencelRdfBrence: January 29, 2009 Her Worship Sylvia County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive Bureau du sous-ministre adjoint et chef (416) 314-3723 (416)314-3758 Information.EMO@ontario. ca EM009-00005 Hofhuis, Warden I Y St. Thomas, ON N5R 5V1 Dear Warden Hofhuis: COUNTY ®~ FEB ~ 6 ZCC9 Municipality of Central Elgin PER: TIME: I am writing to congratulate your municipality for completing all of the mandatory emergency management activities required under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act for 2008. Experience has shown us that emergencies are on the rise in Ontario and across Canada. As you know, the maintenance of sound community emergency management programs helps to ensure that municipalities are prepared to respond to emergencies and protect their residents should the worst occur. Meeting Ontario's emergency management standards reflects a great deal of effort as well as the commitment of significant resources. Your Council and staff are to be congratulated on this accomplishment. Emergency Management Ontario looks forward to continuing to work in partnership with Ontario municipalities as we strive to realize our shared vision of disaster- resilient communities. EMO's Program Delivery Section under the leadership of Deputy Chief Joy McLeod are available to assist your municipality at all times. In closing, I extend my personal appreciation for your municipality's achievement. Sincerely, Dan Hefkey Assistant Deputy Minister and Chief c. CEMC Field Officer oL~~q cr~P~~o io:C~r9Y;~ti ~ Lw9QYS/fi~ - 9t9`s' 'f`;;i /y ~;s.:.l'CiIII:I e:l 4~L ,~ Minister ~ n Affairs ~~~ y of Forei Ministre des Affaires ~trangeres F' ' ~ ' ~ P '~ ~~ ~~ g , lj Yjp y Ottawa, Canada K1A OG2 ~~~ ~ ~ Z009 ~~UFi i Y ~~ ~L~IN ~Ov ~ ~ 200® ~®~~Pd~S~RATIV~SERVICE~ Mrs. Sandra J. Heffren Manager of Administrative Services County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario NSR 5 V 1 Dear Mrs. Heffren: The Office of the Right Honourable Stephen Harper, Prime Minister, has forwatded to my predecessor, the Honourable David L. Emerson, on October 1, 2008, a copy of your letter concerning measures to protect the integrity of Canada's freshwater resources. I regret the delay in replying to you. The Government of Canada is committed to ensuring the long-teem conservation, protection and security of Canada's supply of fresh water. The International Boundary Waters Treaty Act and its regulations prohibit bulk removals of water from Canadian boundary basins for any purpose, including export. A number of limited exceptions are provided, such as short-term, non-commercial removals for humanitarian purposes or firefighting. This safeguard is backed by serious penalties including fines, imprisonment or both. Canada's prohibition on bulk removals is an environmental measure of general application designed to protect water in its natural state. Water in its natural state is not subject to international trade challenge. In addition to this federal protection, the Government of Canada has worked cooperatively with provinces and territories to adopt measures that protect waters falling under their jurisdiction. In Budget 2007, the Canadian government allocated $93 million over two years toward a National Water Strategy. Through this investment, the Government of Canada is taking action to improve the water we drink, to clean polluted water, to help maintain water levels in the Great Lakes, to protect our ecosystems and to ensure the sustainability of our fish resources. The long-term plan for infrastructure funded from Budget 2006 and Budget 2007 will provide a total of $33 billion from 2007 to 2014 to support investments by provinces, territories and municipalities, some of which will be used for water and wastewater treatment projects. .../2 Canada -2- Canadian law prohibiting the bulk removal of water from Canadian boundary is the best means to safeguard Canada's water resources. Water is regulated and protected in its natural state, in the basin, and therefore is not subject to international trade challenges. Unless water has entered into commerce and become a good or product, it is not covered by the provisions of any international trade agreement. The Canadian prohibition on bulk removals of water fiom Canadian boundary basins is a comprehensive and environmentally sound approach of general application and is consistent with Canada's international trade obligations, including the North American Free Trade Agreement. In the United States, the Great Lakes Basin Water Resources Compact (the Compact) was signed into law on October 3, 2008. The Compact provides for orderly and integrated water use and conservation, and bans new or increased diversions from the U.S. side of the Great Lakes, allowing only limited and strictly regulated exceptions. It represents an important contribution to the sustainable management of the shared waters of the two countries. The signature of former U.S. President George W. Bush was the final step in a legislative process that began in December 2005 and involved ratification of the Compact by all eight U.S. Great Lakes States, the U.S. Senate and the U.S. Congress. For more information on the conservation, protection and security of Canada's fieshwater supply, I invite you to visit the websites ofCanada-United States Relations at www.can-am.gc.ca and of Environment Canada at www.ec.gc.ca/water•. Thank you for writing. Sincerely, y ~~ The Honourable Lawrence Cannon, P.C., M.P. c.c. cims oper~pco-bcn.gc.ca ~`~s ~ ~, „1, w~, , U ,tly .,° HOVSE OF COFIMONS CANADA House of Commons Raont 142, Cm federation I3tnlding O(tafea, ON KIA OA6 Tel: (613) 990-7769 Far: (613J 996-0194 Eur6ilr P~'e+'IC~Parlgmca Constituency 241st dve~ure, Uait2 St TGamas, ON NSR 4M5 Tel: (519) 637-1155 Far: (519) 637-3358 Toll-Free: /(866)404-0406 Enmi(: assist@joeprestmmlp.ca Friday, February 06, 2009 TO: The County of Elgin RE: Budset 2009 Recommendations doe Preston M.P. fo!•Elgin Middlesei~-London ~~a. I' ~B i 9 2009 ~OUNfiY ®F ELGIN STAATIVE SERUtCEg. Please find a copy a letter received by our office from The Minister of Finance, The Honorable Jim Flaherty. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at 519-637-2255. Sincerer, of Parliament 519 637 3358 Joe Pres[on M P 03:13:13 p.m. 02-11-2009 2 /3 CONFIRMATION Minister of Finance v Ministre des Finances ~3 _. JAN 2 3 2004 ortawa, Canada K1A OGS 2008PIN255313 Mr. Joe Preston, M.P. House of Commons Ottawa, ON lC1A OA6 Dear Mr. Preston: Thank you for your correspondence of September 4, 2048, written on behalf of the Council for the Corporation of the County of Elgin; in which you submit the Council's 'views and recommendations inadvance ofl3udget 2009, The Council's views, along with the views of all Canadians, are very much appreciated. Please excuse the delay in replying. In this time of.global economic instability, we can ba reassured that the hard work of millions of Canadians has laid a solid foundation for our country. We have paid down : debt and kept spending under control. Our banks are among the strongest and "' best-regulated in the world. Canadian households and businesses have been prudent and :avoided taking on the excessive debt witnessed elsewhere. Our Govemment has a clear approach to Canada's economic security. We will work with our partners to help address the current international crisis. We will maintain a prudent course for the country's finances, Our Government will take action to support the economy today while building a stronger economy for the future. We will play a lead role in the repair and strengthening ofthe international financial system. Canada's relative success in weathering the global economic turnnoil thus far can be attributed in no small measure to our country's sofid fiscal fiutdamentals, the best among all major.industrialized countries. Responsible budgets,.significant debt repayment, and declining corporate and personal income taxes have provided an important competitive advantage. Nonetheless, global turbulence is translating into real challenges for Canada. Our Govetxunent understands the pressures on ordinary hard-working Canadians and the businesses that provide them with jobs. To protect Canada's economy, cur Government will follow afive-pronged plan: • Reform global finance by woxking with our allies and trading partners to re-examine and renew the rules that underpin the globat financial system; Canada Received Time Feb, 11..2009 2:58PM No. 2476 519 637 3358 Joe Preston MP 03:13:43 p. nt. 02-11-2009 313; 2- • Ensure sound budgeting so that Canada does not return to ongoing, unsustainable structural deficits while putting all federal expendihues under the microscope of zesponsible spending; • Secure jobs for families and wmmunities by encouraging the skilled trades and apprenticeships, supporting workers fading transition, and providing further support to the automotive and aerospace industries; • Expand investment and trade by modernizing investment, competition and copyright laws and pursuing trade agreements in Europe, .Asia and the Americas; and • Make government more effective by reducing red tape, fixing procurement, improving program and service delivery, and improving the management of federal agencies, boards, commissions and Crown corporations, - Our aovemment is committed to Canada's continued success in this time of global economic instability. We will address the challenges Canadian families; businesses and workers face, both today and in the fixture. We will continue to establish effective policies That give a competitive advantage to this country. We will strengthen the institutions that keep Canadians safe, secure and prosperous. And we will work in ;: 'partnership -with our allies, with the provinces and territories, with industry and with the ' millions of Canadian families - to keep Canada the true North, strong and free. Thank you for communicating the suggestions of the Council for the Corporation of the. County of Elgin as we prepare the upcoming federal budget: Their participation in the pre-budget consultation process is important, and I can assure you that their thoughts will be considered as we move forward. I firmly believe that there is nothing Canadians cannot do if we put our minds and energy behind it. There is nothing Canadians cannot do when we mobilize and focus our creativity and talent. We have a brilliant future together! Thank you for writing and sharing the thoughts of the Council for the Corporation of the County of Elgin. Sincerely, James M. Flaherty Received Time Feb. 11. 2009 2:58PM No. 2476 Steve Peters, 1VLP.P. ®~ 1 Elgin -Middlesex -London omano February 6, 2009 Mc Robert Morin, Secretary General Canadian Radio-Televisimr and Telecommunications Commission Ottawa, Ontario KlA ON2 Re: Broadcasting Decision CRTC 2009 - 39 Dear Mr. Morin: u €'EN 9 ~ 2009 ~ONsJ~Y OF ELFIN INI~TN~71VE ~EAVICE3~ Please find the enclosed letter from Mr. Bob Hammersley, President and CEO of the St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce. I believe Mr. Hammersley's letter quite eloquently expresses the disappointment and deep concerns of local stakeholders iu the matter of the CRTC's recent decision to not grant an FM radio license that would have served the St. Thomas area by My Broadcasting Corporation. I share much of Mr. Hammerley's disappointment and concern and I have chosen to let his letter and his radio- trainedvoice take the lead in this matter. The thrust of my concerns rest within what I will term `local content' and the peop]e who My Broadcasting Corporation had hoped to serve. Upon reading the decision, it appears that the greater City of St. Thomas area is not considered a market of its own by the CRTC and that a separate urban centre of upwards of 40,000 citizens has been simply "lumped" into the much larger City of London regional market. And it also appears that the numerous letters of support My Broadcasting Corporation solicited for its application, mine included, made no difference in your agency's decision. As you likely are aware, the City of St. Thomas is the only municipality with more than a population of 20,000 people not to have a radio station in the entire Province of Ontario. The radio station as proposed by My Broadcasting Corporation would have served not only the City of St. Thomas, but all of Elgin County. This radio station would have given St. Thomas and Elgin County a unique voice, one that is not currently served by radio stations based in London. This is not to say that London radio stations do not serve St. Thomas and Elgin County. But as the much larger urban centre, Lmrdon always dominates the news, sports, entertainment and other broadcasts that current stations provide. The St. Thomas and Elgin County listeners deserve to have a radio station they can call their own, a service they have gone without since the departure of a station to London a decade ago. It is my hope that through the genuine concern and warranted outrage expressed by local stakeholders that you will either reconsider this decision or at the very least examine the existing criteria for granting applications to ensure that worthy areas like St. Thomas and Elgin County not be overlooked by your agency in the future. Sincerely, Steve Peters, M.P.P. Elgin-Midd lesex-London Cc: Mc Bob Hammersley, President & CEO, St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce Mr. Andrew Dickson, Vice-President, myFM Radio Group Mc Joe Preston, M.P. Elgin-Middlesex-London Mayor Cliff Barwick, City of St. Thomas Warden Graham Warwick, County ofElgiu 542 Talbot Street, St Thomas, ON N5P 1C4 T - (619) 631-0666 Toll free - 1-800-265-7638 P - (519) 631-9478 T'r1' - (519) 631-9904 E - spetere.mpp.co~GberaLola.org ~rmnr~stevepeters.com ~~~.~I ST. TH®MAS & DISTF~ICT CHAMBER oFCOIRCE February 3, 2009 Secretary-General Robert A. Morin, CRTC, Ottawa, ON K1A ON2 RE: Broadcasting Decision CRTC 2009 - 39 1~ n. r ~ / f ``-.'/J ~ ~ ~.+~'' l/ ~- ~~~ ®~ 20~~ VIA FAX: 819-994-0! ~~~~~~R~~'~~~ ~19~<~~jv Dear Mr. Morin, Chairman von Finckenstein & Members of the Commission: I am deeply disappointed to learn of the Commission's decision to ignore the City of St. Thomas and the immediately adjacent communities in the decision released yesterday. Let me preface my remarks by explaining that my level of interest and awareness in this circumstance may be above average. Eighteen years of my career has been spent in radio in on-air, sales and management positions and I have over 20 years' experience in community service & association management. While I, and many others across this community, have no issue with the new radio licenses being issued for London I must express, in the strongest possible terms, how detrimental the Commission's denial of the My Broadcasting Corporation (MyFM) application for a station to serve St. Thomas is. The fact the MyFM application was for a separate frequency, arid not competitive to the London applicants, leads me to conclude the Commission has not only let our community down but has quite likely harmed it. The public's best interests have been ignored. Reading, and re-reading the on-line information posted by the Commission leaves me with many questions and no answers. May I have some? Why must the City of St. Thomas, the 25th largest City in Ontario, remain the only community with a population of more than 20,000 people not to have its own radio station? Why does the Commission's release make reference to CFHK FM St. Thomas (Decision Point 4) when the owners moved it to London several years ago? We DO NOT have a radio station here. Page 1 of 3 555 Talbot Street, Call 519-631-1981 Fax: 519-631-0466 St. Thomas, ON N5P 1C5 E-mail: mail@stthomaschamber.on.ca. INCORPORATED AS SL THOMAS BOARD OF TRADE IN 1869 MEMBER OF THE CANADIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBER OF THE ONTARIO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Why did the Commission not give any reasons for ignoring the fact that MyFM demonstrated exceptional community interest, and evidence of it, and that their application received no objections? Beyond denial of the MyFM application there is no commentary explaining the decision. What was wrong with MyFM's proposal? Why does the Commission appear to "lump" St. Thomas with London? It's true that we are part of a common statistical unit, London CMA, but from a community viewpoint St. Thomas is a separate community and tragically underserved in terms of news, local information and media. St. Thomas represents about 12% of the London CMA population but I would strongly argue that not one of the existing London radio stations places anywhere near 12% of their capacity for collecting and distributing local information in this community nor do we see anything significant in terms of support, sponsorships and activities to develop and support Canadian/local talent. A sad reality for this community is that we have been hit by job losses in the current economic downturn. This fact may also cause existing London stations to argue they have paid attention and reported news of our fate. The net result is captured in an email from a senior local hospital executive this morning when he commented to me "Now we need to get the CRTC to tell the London radio stations that St. Thomas is here all the time, not just during plant closure announcements." During the pre-hearing period I found it exceptional and delightful that the MyFM personnel dedicated significant time and resources to hosting community information events, attending and participating in community functions and generally making a solid effort to know this community. None of the other applicants did. Point 19 of the Decision speaks to a need for diversity of news voices. Diversity? Voice? How about just letting us have one? And how about one that pledges more than just what the "big' media offers in doom and gloom news? I have spent considerable time learning how MyFM successfully operates in Strathroy, Ontario -their closest station to St. Thomas. Their ability to serve that community with local content and information, not to mention community involvement, is superb. St. Thomas enjoys nothing of the sort, yet we could have if the MyFM application was supported. Page 2 of 3 CRTC Decision 2009-39 is a slap in St. Thomas' municipal face and detrimental to neighbouring communities including Port Stanley, Central Elgin and Southwold. We want and need our own radio station. As an entity dedicated to serving the Canadian public you have failed us with this decision and damaged our community. Please take whatever immediate action is necessary to reconsider and award MyfM a license to serve St. Thomas and our neighbouring communities. nmersley President & CEO cc: Hon. lames Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Hon. Steve Peters, M.P.P., toe Preston, M.P., ~~den Graham Warwick & Elgin County Council, Mayor Cliff Barwick & St. Thomas City Council, Mayor Sylvia Hofuis and Central Elgin Council, Mayor James McIntyre and Southwold Council, St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation St. Thomas Downtown Development Board Page 3 of 3 ~~ ~ '~'~7Ft F OFFICE OF THE MAYOR ~ ~ ;. ST. THOMAS CORN fV ®~ ELGfN A®MINISTRAiIV~ S~RVtCES 545 Talbot Street • P.O. Box 520 City Hall • St. Thomas, Ontario NSP 3V7 Tel: (519) 631-1680 or Fax: (519) 633-9019 February iz, zoo9 Warden Graham Warwick County of Elgin 45o Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 5V1 Dear Warden Warwick, Re: zoo8 Elgin St. Thomas United Way Campaign Thanks to the efforts of many organizations and individuals, the zoo8 Elgin St. Thomas United Way Campaign exceeded their goal of $800,000. In a time when our community is challenged by concerning economic conditions, continued support for United Way is very much needed and appreciated. 1 am pleased to advise you that the City of St. Thomas surpassed its goal, raising $t3,t35•oo, which represents a 30% increase over our zoo? total. 1 understand that the County of Elgin was equally successful, raising $i3, 683.00. In this regard, I must congratulate you, your council, your staff and all of those involved in making a very successful campaign. I would like to acknowledge the County of Elgin as the official winner of the annual City-County United Way Challenge. We clearly have reason to be extremely proud of our collective efforts, on behalf of all those in our community who are in need. I would like to congratulate everyone for a job well done and trust we will have the chance to engage in this most friendly and worthwhile competition next year. With kindest regards, ~1/~R Cliff Barwick, Mayor The Corporation of the City of St. Thomas c.c.: Mark McDonald, CAO, County of Elgin Sandra Datars Bere, Director Ontario Works, City of St. Thomas i _... 1~ __- __ Assvdalivn of Municipalities of Ontariv MEMBER COMMUNICATION ALERT N°: 091010 To the attention of the Clerk and Council FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Februa 11 2009 AMO Policy Team rY r (416) 971-9856 AMO Report to Members on January 2009 Board Meeting To keep members informed, AMO continues to provide updates on important issues considered at regular AMO Board of Directors' meetings. Highlights of the January 2009 Board meeting follow: • Blue Box Plan Review w Q The Board received information on the Waste Diversion Act Review and the Blue Box Program Plan Review. The Board gave direction that all submissions are to be in keeping to the previously approved AMO positions in respect to both of these matters. Contact: Milena Avramovic, Senior Policy Advisor, email: milena@amo.on.ca; ext. 342 • AMO/OMSSA Poverty Paper The Board received: Government Makes a Difference: Working Together Towards Poverty Reduction, co-written by AMO and the Ontario Municipal Social Service Association. The paper discusses important considerations in poverty reductions strategies. These include recommendations on developing local poverty reduction strategies; the importance of addressing provincial policies and programs that operate at cross purposes of one another; and the need for reliable, sustained funding of programs and initiatives. Contact: Petra Wolfbeiss, Senior Policy Advisor, email: pwolfbeiss@amo.on.ca; ext.329 • AODA: Information and Communication Standards The Board approved AMO's response to the proposed Information and Communications standard under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. AMO's key concerns focus on the scope of the standards, the resulting high costs of compliance and the timing, particularly given the economic climate. AMO remains deeply concerned that the standards are not affordable and would have a significant impact on property taxes and the competitiveness of business in our communities. However, AMO is confident that the shared commitment and objectives of creating barrier free communities can be achieved in a fiscally responsible manner. Contact: Petra Wolfbeiss, Senior Policy Advisor, email: pwolfbeiss@amo.on.ca; ext.329 200 University Ave, Suite 801 Toronto, ON M5H 3C6 Tel.: (416) 971-9856 ~ Fax: (416) 971-6191 E-mail: amo@amo.on.ra Association of ,~® 1.2 Municipalities of Ontario • Energy Issues Update The Board received information on possible changes to the legislative and regulatory environment governing energy conservation, generation and planning. AMO will continue to guide the development of this legislation to ensure new opportunities are created for municipalities and their local distribution companies while enhancing existing conservation and energy management practices. - - Contact: Scott Vokey, Energy Services Coordinator, email: svokey@amo.on.ca; ext.357 • Cap and Trade of Greenhouse Gases Credits The Board received information on the Government of Ontario's membership in the Western Climate Initiative including its commitment to implement a Cap and Trade system. The Ministry of Environment has issued a discussion paper on how its proposed cap and trade system for Ontario may work. Under the scheme, there is potential for emitters to purchase credits from projects that offset carbon, including non-regulated sectors. Contact: Craig Reid, Senior Policy Advisor, email: creid@amo.on.ca; ext. 334. Federal Budget Briefing The Board received information regarding the municipal impacts of the Federal Budget released January 27. AMO welcomed the substantial increase in infrastructure funding throughout Ontario and looks forward to sitting down with its federal and provincial partners to ensure that investments are received quickly. AMO is awaiting further details and will pass information to its membership as it becomes available. Contact: Matthew Wilson, Senior Policy Advisor, email: mwilson@amo.on.ca; ext. 323. This information is available in the Policy Issues section of the AMO website at www.amo.on.ca. Association of ®~ 2_2 Municipalities of Ontario 200 University Ave, Suite 801 Toronto, ON M5H 3C6 • Tel.: (416) 971-9856 ~ Fax: (416) 971-6191 Assodali°n °f M°n~Ipililics of vnWri° ~°+ E-mail: amo@amo.on.ca MEMBER COMMUN~CAT~®~ ALERT N°: 09/014 To the attention of the Clerk and Council FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: FebrUa 26 2008 Scott Vokey, AMO/ LAS Energy Services ry ~ Coordinator, (416) 971-9856 ext 357 Minister Smitherman on Infrastructure and Green Energy Act The Minister updated delegates to the OGRA/ROMA Annual Conference on Wednesday and we wanted to ensure that all municipalities not in attendance were informed. On Infrastructure investment, he indicated: • The Government of Ontario is prepared to match all Federal Infrastructure Funds that were in the recent federal budget. This is good news for Ontario's municipalities. • That the recent announcements of funding for 289 projects under the Communities Component of the Build Canada Framework were genuinely shovel ready projects, with almost half of the projects related to water and waste water. • While there is no date yet for a second intake under the Communities Component, eligible municipalities (under 100,000 population) should "have pens and paper ready" • For those relatively small scale water systems with a very limited rate base to finance them, the Ministry will develop policy to address water system investment and taxes. On Green Energy Act, he indicated: Bill 150 has two main thrusts: making it easier to bring renewable energy projects to life and creating a culture of conservation so that people can go about their daily lives using less energy. The Government of Ontario states it has developed the Green Energy Act to create jobs, fight climate change, and secure Ontario's place as the continent's leading green economy. It amends 21 pieces of other legislation. • On the generation side, the Bill enables municipalities and local distribution companies (LDCs) to become more active in energy generation for projects under 10 megawatts (MW)-without creating a separate subsidiary and establishes a more aggressive tariff system for renewable energy fed into the grid. Association of ®~® 1.2 Municipalities of Ontario The Bill will put planning approvals with the province. The Minister recognized that some municipalities do not feel equipped to deal with renewable energy sources, whether biomass, biogas, wind or solar and that others are having a challenge sorting through health and safety information to develop standards. He also recognized that some municipalities will not want to see the province take on this function but with an emerging patchwork of planning standards, "the province has decided to assert its interests and is prepared to deal with the outcomes." In light - - - - ofthe government's stated intention with the Bill, AMO advises that municipalities may want to consider the need to progress the development of standards or planning applications related to renewable energy sources. On the conservation side, among other matters the Bill enables local distribution companies (LDCs) to become more active in energy conservation, planning, and storage and will see energy efficiency enhancements to the Building Code and it will require all public agencies, including municipalities to prepare energy conservation plans. As Ontario municipalities are the fourth largest consumer of energy, this is an opportunity for municipal governments to show strong leadership through action and many municipalities have been undertaking energy audits. This proposed Act will fundamentally transform the legislative and regulatory environment governing energy conservation, generation, and planning in Ontario. There are numerous benefits to municipalities as potential generators of electricity either on their own or through their local distribution companies from the proposed improved grid connections and higher feed-in tariffs (prices paid for electricity). As sole shareholders of most LDCs in Ontario, many municipalities will directly benefit from improvements to rate of return, ability to generate power, and enhanced business opportunities from LDC operated energy generation. The Bill's implementation will be through a number of regulations, and AMO will have the opportunity to provide the government with advice on them as they are being developed and will do a more detailed analysis of the Bill in order to make a submission to Standing Committee once the Bill is referred. Amore detailed synopsis of Bill 150 is linked to this Alert and can be found at: http:/lwww.amo.on.ca/AM/Template.cfm?Section=Home&TEMPLATE=ICM/ContentDisplay cfm&CONTENTID =153159 This information is available in the Policy Issues section of the AMO website at www.amo.on.ca. Association of lid y_2 Municipalities of Ontario r~ Ministry of Health Ministers de la Sante and Long-Term Care et Soins de longue dune / ,r- O nta r i o Ofrce of the Deputy Minister Bureau du sous-ministre ~/ Hepburn Block, 10'" Floor Edifice Hepburn, 10• stage 80 Grosvenor Street 80, rue Grosvenor Toronto ON M7A 1R3 Toronto ON M7A 1R3 Tei.: 416 327-4300 Tel.: 416 327-4300 '~, ' Fax: 416 326-1570 Teleo. ; 416 326-1570 - HLTC2965IT-2009-114 ~~~ - ~ 2009 FEB 1,. 2 2009 C®t~fj! s' Q~ ~L~I,~! ADNiI~IS?~~~ zIV~ S~RVjD~D MEMORANDUM TO: Chairs of Transfer Payment Agencies FROM: Ron Sapsford Deputy Minister Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care RE: EXPENDITURE RESTRAINTS On December 2, 2008, the Ontario government announced measures to constrain spending on public salaries and to freeze the current size of the Ontario Public Service (OPS). The announcement was built upon expenditure restraint measures that were identified in the Fall Economic Statement and implemented across the OPS. As part of this exercise, ministries were asked to consider how to reduce their expenditures and to track and report on the measures taken to achieve this objective. Ministries have been asked to manage their costs, and the cost to the taxpayers of Ontario, in the following ways: • Using non-print forms of advertising, including job advertising; • Delaying the implementation of any office relocations/expansions where possible; • Freezing the purchase/lease of new vehicles; • Postponing or cancelling IT projects or limit the scope and number of IT projects, depending on contractual obligations; • Reducing the use of print, photocopying and fax services; and 1615-02 (O6/10) ]536-0659 Containing travel costs by using another form of communication such as teleconferencing or video conferencing, or combining/scheduling face-to-face meetings to maximize efficiency. In addition to these actions, the government is encouraging its partners in the Broader Public Service (BPS) to limit pay increases of employees earning more than $150,000 to 1.5 per cent. As a recipient of public funds, your organization has an obligation to ensure that these funds provide value for money and are spent prudently, in a manner that is consistent with the program mandate and funding agreement with the province. Given this obligation, and mindful of the legislative and contractual framework within which your organization operates, I would ask that you please ensure that your organization has the appropriate controls in place to govern the expenditure of public funds in a manner that is consistent with the new fiscal environment in which we find ourselves. The government and its transfer payment partners must be mindful of the current fiscal environment as they carefully monitor the expenditure of public funds and assess our needs on an ongoing basis. Your leadership is essential to assist the province in demonstrating a prudent and balanced approach in the management of public funds. ~.5~~~~ Ron Sapsford c: Chief Executive Officers/Senior Administrators of Transfer Payment Agencies 74-0]5 2/76/2009 15:07 FAX 416 654 6654 Canada BCF•CC Joint Secretariat 1 Stone Road West, 4NW Guelph ON N104Y2 February 13, 2009 Mr. Mark McDonald CAO County of Elgin (519)633-7661 INDUSTRY CANADA Website: vnxv.bdontario.Ga Email: bcfcc(dJontario.ca Telephone: 1 666 396-7627 Farsimlle: 519 828-0336 Re: Rehabilitation of Calton Line, Project #: 23084 Dear Mr. McDonald: We are pleased to confirm that based on your application submitted under Intake One of the Building Canada Fund -Communities Component (BCF-GC), the governments of Canada and Ontario will each invest up to $1,896,857 toward the eligible costs of the project described above. Over the coming weeks, staff from the BCF- CC Joint Secretariat will develop a Contribution Agreement with you to provide an implementation framework, contracting details, environmental assessment requirements, as well as outline communications opportunities for your funded project. For more details, please contact the BCF-CC Joint Secretariat at 1-888-306-7827 or BCF.CC@ontario.ca, or visit www.bcfontario.ca. ~~'Ontario Secretariat coniolnt du FCC-VC 1, chemin Stone Ouest, 4N.-O. Guelph ON N10 4Y2 Le 13 fevrier 2009 f~oo1/ooz Site Web; w~vw.fecontarlo,ca Courrlal: bcl.ce(~ontarlo.ra Telephone: 1866 393.7827 TAlecopieur: 519 6264336 objet :Remise en tstat du chemin de canton Calton. Projet # 23064 Monsieur McDonald, Nous sommes heureux de confirmer que votre demande~presentee dons le cadre du premier appel de demander du Volet Collectivites du Fonds Chantiers Canada (FCC-VC) recevra respectivement des gouvernements du Canada et de ('Ontario une somme pouvant atteindre 1 896 957 $ applicable aux coots admissibles du projet mentionne ci-haut. Au tours des sema(nes suivantes, le personnel du Secretariat conjoint du FCC-VC preparers une entente de contribution, en collaboration avec vous, afin de fournir un cadre de mice en oeuvre, de preciser les details contractuels et les exigences en maticre devaluation environnementale ainsi que d'exposer les grander lignes des possibilites de communications portant sur votre projet. Pour de plus amples details, veulllez communiquer avec le Secretariat conjoint du FCC-VCF au 1-866-306-7827 ou BCF.CCt~ontario.ca. Vous pouvez egalement visiter le site Web www.vccontario.ca. Building Canada Fund - Gommunities Component Fonds Chantiers Canada - Volet Collectivjtes Received Time Feb. 16. 2009 3:01PM No. 2505 02/16/2009 15:07 FAX 416 654 6654 INDUSTRY CANADA ~ 002/002 -2- We look forward to working w(th you as you Nous nous r€jouissons de travailler aveo vous implement this project. a la mise en oeuvre de ce projet, Sincerely, Nous vous prions d'accepter ('expression de nos sentiments distingues, ~~.~,~- Deborah Bissett Federal Co-Chair / Copresidente f8d~rale Joint Secretariat / Secretariat conjoint Dino Radocchia Provincial Co-Chair / Copresident provincial Joint Secretariat /.Secre3tariat conjoint Building Canada Fund -Communities Component Fonds Chantiers Canada - Volet Collectivites Receiaed Time Feb, 16. 2004 3;01PM No. 2505 __._.. From: Kwapis, Therese [mailto:TKwapis@fanshawec.ca] Sent: Thu 2/19/2009 3:25 PM Subject: Central Community Health Centre Press Release Central Community Health Centre (CCHC) is MOVING ON On January 14, 2009, the South West Local Health Integration Network (SWLHIN) accepted the Central Community Health Centre's final community engagement report allowing the Board of Directors to embark on their next phase of developing and opening a Community Health Centre in Central Elgin. Central Elgin includes the municipality of Central Efgin, Southwold and the City of St. Thomas. Board of Directors: Candace Parrack, Karen McCaw, Cathy Grondin, Shelley McCorkell, Marla Champion, Cynthia St.lohn and Sandra Datars Bere are currently working to hire a Project Director and Real Estate Agent to house and develop programs and services for residents living within the identified catchment area, who are not registered with a primary healthcare practitioner, who experience mental health and/or addition issues, individuals and families living in poverty as well as youth, including at-risk youth. The Board of Directors wish to extend our sincere gratitude to all those in our community who participated in the Community Engagement, either by completing on-line questionnaires, participating in one on one interviews, attending the two community forums, completing key representative interviews, joining focus groups and partnership consultations and completing service provider surveys. The main priority of the Central Community Health Centre In the first year of operation will be the delivery of primary healthcare services to the identified population. The Central Community Health Centre is committed to offering a place where people can get easy access to a wide range of cllent- centred services and programs, care that is customized to both client and community needs and programs that address the root cause of illness and injury. With an estimated salaried staff of nineteen (19) including physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, health promoter, management and administrative the Board of Directors is hoping to have the Centre open and operational on or before the end of 2009. Our vision is working with our community in the pursuit of good health and wellness for everyone and our mission is delivering accessible, collaborative, comprehensive primary health care programs to our community. 87 John Street Soufh, Aylmer, Ontario N5H 2C3 Telephone: 519-773-5344 Fax: 519-773-5334 www.township.malah ide.on.ca the' S A of A proud tradition, a bright future. -~s ~,~ Kea ~ 4 <~' 4z4 j{aa -,t u~ February 20, 2009 County of Elgin, 450 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas, Ontario NSR SVl Attention: Mark McDonald. Dear Sir: ~~P3 ~ ~ 2009 ®UN~'Y OF ELGPIU A~J~~INI~TRA~IV~ S~RVI~~~ RE: Economic Development Marketing Awards. Malahide Township Council were very pleased to hear of the County of Elgin's accomplislunents in winning the two investment attraction marketing awards. These are two very impressive awards to win. Congratulations on a job very well done. You should all be very proud of what you accomplished and we appreciate your efforts. Yours very truly, TOWNSHIP OF MALAHIDE ~6L'Z`'~-''~ R. MILLARD, C.A.O./CLERK \~nalahidets.local\usersfilesS\diana\diana's fites\Randy 2009\connty -award congrats feb 20.doc RANDALL R. MILLARD SUSAN E. WILSON C.A.O./Clerk Treasurer treasurer@ tow n s h i p, m a l a h i d e. o n. ca The Premier of Ontario Legislative Building Queen's Park Toronto, Ontario M7A 1A1 February 25, 2009 Le Premier ministee de ('Ontario Edifice de I'Assemblee legislative Queen's Park Toronto (Ontario) M7A 1A1 ~~ 1 ~- Ontario t ~ a ~ ~i >> "`, Es ~ 2009 ~~ CC6iiu i-'~ Q~ I~LGIN AgMINISTRATIVE SERVICES Mr. Mark G. McDonald Chief Administrative Officer County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 5Vl Dear Mr. McDonald: Thank you for your letter of February 18 providing me with a copy of council's resolution regarding home care. I appreciate your keeping me informed of council's activities. I note that you have sent a copy of council's resolution to my colleague the Honourable David Caplan, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care. I trust that the minister will also take council's views into consideration. Thank you again for the information. Yours truly, r Dalton McGuinty Premier c: The Honourable David Caplan fax cover DATE: 06/03/2009 Send to: Warden Warwick and Elgin County Councillors Attention: Office Location: Fax Number: Call Group #'s From: Mark G. McDonald, Chief Administrative Officer mmcdonald@elgin-county. on. ca Office Location: Administrative Services Phone Number: Ext. 161 Number of Pages, Including Cover: ~ ^ URGENT ^ REPLYASAP ^ PLEASE COMMENT ^ PLEASE REVIEW ^ FOR YOUR INFORMATION COMMENTS: Additional Items for Council Agenda of March 10, 2009 Reports of Staff: (attached) Chief Administrative Officer- Administrative Services Coordinator Correspondence -Items for Information (Consent Agenda): (attached) Laura Woermke, Executive Director/Curator, St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre, thanking County Council for the financial support received from the County. Thank you card from Sandra Heffren. Hon. Dwight Duncan, Minister of Finance, acknowledging Council's concerns regarding the Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund. THE INFORMATION IN THIS FACSIMILE IS FOR THE NAMED RECIPIENT ONLY. IT MAY CONTAIN INFORMATION THAT IS PRIVILEGED, CONFIDENTIAL AND EXEMPT FROM DISCLOSURE UNDER APPLICABLE LAW. IF THE READER OF TFBS MESSAGE IS NOT THE INTENDED RECIPIENT, OR RESPONSIBLE FOR DELIVERING THE MESSAGE TO THE INTENDED RECIPIENT, ANY DISSEMINATION, DISTRIBUTION OR COPYING OF THIS COMMUNICATION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. IF YOU HAVE RECEIVED THIS CO,YIMUN[CATION IN ERROR, OR THERE ARE ANY PROBLEMS 1N TRANSMISSION, PLEASE NOTIFY US BY TELEPHONE County Of Elgln 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 5V1 Canada Phone: 519-631-1460 Fax; 519-633-7661 wvnv.elgi nco unty.on.ca ,,-~~- E1~mCount}' REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL PM1$fSSUC b/IUtr~N FROM: Mark G. McDonald Chief Administrative Officer DATE: March 5, 2009 SUBJECT: Administrative Services Coordinator INTRODUCTION: The former Manager of Administrative Services/Deputy Clerk retired on January 31St 2009. In an effort to contain costs, Council directed that the position not be filled for two months (saving approximately $10,000) and providing an opportunity to assess the departmental needs during this absence. This report recommends restructuring the position by altering the responsibilities, thereby offering even further savings. DISCUSSION: The newly proposed position entitled "Administrative Services Coordinator" (job description attached) would carry many of the responsibilities of the former position but would not be responsible for any statutory obligations associated with the former Deputy Clerk position. This would result in a four-step reduction from a Level 10 position to a Level 6 position, resulting in an annual savings of approximately $20,000.00, including salary and benefits. Council should be advised that those duties previously assigned to the Deputy Clerk, especially the statutory ones, will be re-assigned to the Chief Administrative Officer (approving by-laws/administering the corporate seaUcorporate correspondence/corporate record keeping/freedom of information requests/ministerial liaison etc). In order to accomplish this restructuring, two other changes are required. It is recommended that the Director of Financial Services be appointed as Deputy Clerk and that the Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk be appointed as Deputy Treasurer. Neither of these appointments will affect the salaries of the incumbents, as the positions would be utilized only in the absence of one of the employees for short periods of time (vacation, sickness etc). Without these appointments, the Corporation could be left without the appropriate statutory officials to carryon business. CONCLUSION: The vacancy left by the retirement of the former Manager of Administrative Services/Deputy Clerk has provided an opportunity to assess the needs of the Administrative Services Department and Council's Secretariat. By assigning additional statutory duties to the Director of Finance and the Chief Administrative Officer, a new model is being recommended to save costs and still meet the obligations of the Corporation. -2- RECOMMENDATION: THAT the newly revised position known as Administrative Services Coordinator be approved and the Human Resources Department be directed to commence the recruitment process as soon as possible; and, THAT Mr. Jim Bundschuh be appointed as Deputy Clerk (in addition to his present position) and Mr. Mark G. McDonald, be appointed as Deputy Treasurer (in addition to his present position); and, THAT the necessary by-law be prepared. Title: 'Administrative Services -Coordinator ar"~~jOpEt~ Status: 'Full-time ' ~~`~ x Department: 'Administrative Services ~'o„,qR.a' Reports Ta Chief Administrative Officer SUMMARY OF POSITION: Provides secretarial and administrative services to the CAO,' Warden and County Council. Responsible. for the regular maintenance and operational activities related to .the County's records management program and related Graining of staff. Administration of.the Municipal Freedom of information and Protection of Privacy Act. Coordinate and supervise the daily operations of the Administrative Services department. WORK PERFORMED: '' 1. Manage all aspects of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. 2. Coordinate, maintain and provide staff training for the County's Records Management Program. 3. Assist with the recruitment and hiring of Administrative Services staff and conducts .performance evaluations of Administrative Services taff. ' 4. Assist in the preparation of and ongoing monitoring of the Council, departmental and service Board's budgets. 5. Record and prepare meeting minutes for Council, Management Team and other boards as required. 6. Establish and maintain accurate files and records of Councilminutes reports, by-laws, etc. 7. Research by-laws for. presentation and adoption by County Council, 8. Create correspondence for the Administrative Services department, County Council and Warden. 9. Create and track "reminder list" of action items from Council meetings to ensure .council's directions have been'carried out. 10. Provide office administrative support, .including the researching of 'data, for the CAO, Warden and County Council 11. Approve and code accounts payable invoices for. Council, Warden and departmental expenditures ' 12. Provide clerical backup as required for Administrative Assistants. 13. Coordinate'Council related functions including the Warden's banquet and election reception. 14. Coordinate and supervise the daily operations of the Administrative Services department. 15. Assist the C.A.O. as requested. 16. Other duties as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS: 1. Post-secondary education related to office administration/political sciences/public administration. 2. Office administration experience in a municipal environment considered an asset. 3. Working knowledge of MFIPPA and of Records Management. 4. Proficiency,n computer use and MS Office applications. 5. Excellent organizational and communication (oral and written) skills. 6. Strong customer service and interpersonal skills. 7. AMCTO designation is considered an asset. Prepared By: Date: Effective Date: Approved By: Date: JD Code: 'AS-002 Em to er Si nature: Date: St. Thomas-Elgin U LI 301 Talbot Street, St.Thomas, ON N5P 165 519.631.4040 Fax 519.631.4057 FEQ ~ ~ 2009 County of Elgin Administrative Building Attention: Sandy Heffren 450 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas, Ontario. N5R 5V1 CGUN`i''~ C1F ELGIN ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES February 18, 2009. Dear Sandy Heffren, On behalf of the Board of Directors and Staff of the St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre, I would like to thank you for the recognition and financial support you have invested in our organization over the years. Your yearly contributions enable us to plan for and deliver quality programs and exhibitions, exemplify our mutual commitment to the arts and education. Please find enclosed information to be included in council packages at your convenience. Sincerely] Laura Woermke Executive Director /Curator St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre t~,eva~~~,~~~~~:{n~r~~.~.~ come to i„ 3 V, /f „ ,~/ ¢LLW 6jj•U env ~i12..~r~.o~, ~~J ~ ,.~[.c~-di ~~KY~ rearnv~~, ~:~ hinking of your kindness and sending many thanks. ~~ l~~iLisi./ ~~« ~~a~~ J ~~ Ontario Ministry of Finance Mlniat~re du Finances Office of the Minister Bureau du mfnistre I~AR IJ 6 2a~9 Mr. Mark McDonald mmcdonald @ elgin-county.on.ca Dear Mr. McDonald: 7" Floor, Frost Building South 7 Queen's Park Crescent Toronto ON M7A 1Y7 Telephone: 416 325-0400 Facsimile: 416 325.0374 7e 5tage, Edifice Frost sud 7, Queen's Park Crescent Toronto ON M7A tY7 Telephone : 416 325-0400 Telecopieur : 416 325-0374 Thank you for your correspondence forwarded by my colleague, Steve Peters, MPP, regarding the Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund (OMPF). I regret that I am not able to meet with you at this time. However, I will address your concerns in this letter. As you know, the province, along with the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) and the City of Toronto, released the consensus Report of the Provincial- Municipal Fiscal and Service Delivery Review (the review) on October 31, 2008. The review describes a new approach to the funding and delivery of services in Ontario, and is a significant landmark in the provincial-municipal partnership. It is also important to recognize that the report contains a 10-year plan for phasing in this new provincial- municipal financial structure. Municipal representatives identified the upload of the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) and Ontario Drug Benefits (ODB) as their top priority. As part of the review, we already uploaded the municipal share of ODB in 2008, and will begin uploading the ODSP in 2009. Starting in 2010, we will upload Ontario Works benefits costs from municipalities, and starting in 2012, we will also upload court security costs up to a maximum of $125 million a year. Once fully implemented, these uploads will result in a net annual benefit to municipalities of more than $1.5 billion compared to 2007. The Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund (OMPF) was also included in the review. In the report, our partners agreed to the key principle that the OMPF should remain responsive to changes in municipal circumstances, such as the upload of ODB, and ODSP and Ontario Works benefits. Therefore, consistent with the normal operation of the OMPF, the 2009 social programs grants have been adjusted to reflect the reduction in municipal costs resulting from the full upload of ODB and ODSP administration. Future OMPF allocations will also be adjusted as the remaining social programs uploads are phased in. .../cont'd -2- On November 14, 2008, the ministers of Finance and Municipal Affairs and Housing announced a Combined Benefit Stable Funding Guarantee (CBSFG) for 2009. The CBSFG ensures that a municipality's combined benefit of its 2009 OMPF plus the reduced costs from ODB and ODSP administration uploads, will be at least equal to its announced March 2007 OMPF. Without this additional support, some municipalities would normally see a reduction in their OMPF allocations because of the phase-out of the one-time and transitional funding they have received in past years under the OMPF. The special one-time assistance for 2009, to deliver on the CBSFG, will allow those municipalities sufficient time to begin planning for their 2010 budget cycle with information on actual OMPF entitlements. In 2009, the Ministry of Finance will also work with AMO and the City of Toronto to review OMPF mitigation in advance of the release of 2010 allocations. Please be assured that the Ministry of Finance remains committed to working with all of its municipal partners in order to ensure quality throughout the municipal funding system. Thank you again for writing. Sincerely, -`1'_-- Dwight Duncan Minister c: Steve Peters, MPP, Elgin-Middlesex-London