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April 14, 2009 Agendaa{2Y OPFtc ORDERS OF THE DAY FOR TUESDAY, APRIL 14. 2009 - 9;00 AM TARO PAGE# ORDER 2-4 5-8 9-32 33-37 38-52 53-59 NOTICE: 1st Meeting Called to Order 2nd Adoption of Minutes - March 24, 2009 3rd Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof 4th Presenting Petitions, Presentations and Delegations DELEGATION: 9:00 a.m. John Regan, General Manager, Anne Kenny, Economic Development Consultant, Elgin Community Futures Development Corporation, "Who Are We" an update and review of services (attachment) 9:15 a.m. Mary Taylor, Fran Southwick, Ruth Horton, Val Donnell re: Closure of Vienna Branch Library (attachment) 5th Motion to Move Into "Committee Of The Whole Council" 6th Reports of Council, Outside Boards and Staff 7th Council Correspondence - see attached 1) Items for Consideration 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 (see separate agenda) 10th Recess 11th Motion to Rise and Report 12th Motion to Adopt Recommendations from the Committee Of The Whole 13th Consideration of By-Laws 14th ADJOURNMENT LUNCH WILL BE PROVIDED April 28, 2009 9:00 A.M. - County Council Meeting May 12, 2009 9:00 A.M. - County Council Meeting Presentations to Councils 1. Who we are Our Mission is to provide human and financial resources to new and existing businesses in Elgin County and to act as a catalyst for community economic development in our community. Elgin Community Futures Development Corporation (ECFDC) is a community-based non-profit organization funded by Industry Canada / FedNor of the Federal Government. Known as Elgin LEAD since 1986;The corporation was federally incorporated as Elgin Community Futures Development Corporation in 1996; ECFDC had adopted a new public name -will now be known as the Elgin Business Resource Centre (EBRC), a Community Futures Development Corporation. The organization overseen by a Board of 12 Directors who ably represent the population of Elgin County. Membership in the Corporation: (from our by-laws) 17.1 Eligibility for Membership The following are eligible for membership in the Corporation: a) The Directors of the Corporation; b) the Mayor and Senior Administrator, or their designates, of the municipalities of: St. Thomas, Aylmer, Central Elgin, Bayham, Malahide, Southwold, Dutton- Dunwich and West Elgin; c) and any individual, corporation, partnership and other legal entity who is interested in furthering the objects of the Corporation and whose application for admission as a member has received the approval of the Board of Directors. 17.2 Each member shall promptly be informed by the Secretary of his admission as a member. Only those individuals, corporations or partnerships who have expressed an interest in membership 30 days or more prior to the Annual General Meeting are entitled to vote thereat. EBRC is staffed by 9 business professionals who encourage entrepreneurship and the pursuit of economic opportunities. 4 Business Counsellors 2 Community Economic Development Consultants 2 Admin staff 1 GM Location :300 South Edgeware Road, St. Thomas 2. What we do Business Services ^ Loans -for start up and expansion, - max $150,000 ^ Business Counselling -free to all ^ Self Employment Benefit Program -concept workshops, in depth business workshops, mentoring, financial support from EI - EBRC delivers on behalf of MTCU Note: Business is our Business - we are members of all 5 Chambers of Commerce throughout Elgin County - we are in the process of setting up satellite/itinerant services in the far ends of the County Community Economic Development ^ we function as catalysts in communities - we help make connections, find partners - provide seed money for projects - assist with finding funds, funding applications - promote business, cultural, agricultural, tourism entities Provide some recent examples. March 25, 2009 Ms. Mary Taylor 1 King Street Vienna ON NOJ 1Z0 Dear Ms. Taylor: I am in receipt of yow letter dated March 23, 2009 expressing your concerns regarding the pending closure of the Vienna branch of the Elgin County Library. I also thank you for your phone call of yesterday. As promised, I have included with this letter the full report that went to County Council which informed their decision and which hopefully addresses many of your questions and concerns. You will note that the report does speak to the ability for the public to make delegations to County Council on this matter and I encourage you take advantage of this opportunity so you can share your views directly. Should you wish to make such a delegation, please contact the County's Administrative Services Department at 519-631-1460 x 161. Regarding your request for information on the number of card holders per branch, you are quite correct that patrons possess a card that can be used at any branch of the Elgin County Library so Vienna patrons will not lose their borrowing privileges. However, patrons are assigned a "home" location and our staff have been briefed on the appropriate catchment area for each branch in assigning these locations. These figures are an important statistical tool to assess the relative performance of our branches. For your information, we currently have 266 registered patrons at Port Burwell, 783 registered patrons at Bayham and approximately 11,000 registered patrons for the County as a whole. I can assure you our staff are currently in the process of assessing operating hours at both our Port Burwell and Straffordville branches should the branch close. We are furthermore in the process of determining ways we can reach out to the community to better promote our services. County of EIgIn Community and Cultural Services 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, On N5R 5V1 Phone: 519-631-1460 www.elgincounty.on.ra -2- I hope this addresses your questions and concerns and I thank you for your support and advocacy of library services in the community. Sincerely, Brian Masschaele Director of Community & Cultural Services BM/cr Encl. Cc: Mark McDonald Municipality of Bayham OM :TAYIor FAX N0. :5198744585 Mar. 24 2009 11:48RM P1 J ~~4 23. March 2009 Faxed to 519-631-9209 Faxed to 519-$bb-5$84 Community and Cultural Services Director: Brian Masschaele ce Municipality of Bayhani Council Re: Vienna Library. closure Mary Taylor 1 I{ing St, Vienna rlor 120 Tel & F'ax:3t9-874-4585 bear Mr. Masschaele I am requesting that an extension be punted as per the date set for the closing of the Vienna Library. feel that the criteria used.for the decision to close this particular library should be revisited. 1. In th.e March 18, 2009 issue of the Aylmer Expross it was stated that there are 111 active card holders for the•Vienna library; Vienna he's a lame number of families of German decent. It is quite normal for these lovely families to be quite large. In most cases one member of the family Bold ilia card; and ul5wards of five children may be utilizing this library on that one bard. 2. This type of criteria should not have been in the equation to judge the use of any "one" Iibrary; I have active library cards with three. different libraries that I have accumulated over my life time; I now lino in Vienna and 1 visit that pleasant little Tom Ha111ibrary (Vienna) every chance I ~;et; I have no card for Vienna as my Aylmer card and St Thomas card allows me access to any Elgin County library; had I known that this typo of criteria would be used in determining the Fate of this library, I would have made sure I had a Vienna card and I am sure there are others who would have done the same; 3. The Vienna library'was granted eight hours of operation per week; the library is open on Monday's and Thursdays; the Monday hours are very good for the children as the hours are after school 4-8; but the Thursday hours from 12-3 are not very useful and should have been ehau5ed; Xou else must consider the fact that there era holiday weekends tendering Monday a day and this library was closed; I believe last year there was a total of seven closui library days for Vienna because Monday (long weekends) was a holiday; tills wb~itd d[stl niklre your calculation of "sung costs "for the Vaenna library incorrect; 4. Althou{;h I am uncertain about the hours alloted to Port Burwell and Straffordville, I do however know that they are open on Saturdays which of course would be an asset when , determining usage; 5. I have good information that the library in fort Burwell.is mainly used:as an Internet access; I aan not sayiii~ that one library should be Elosed aiici another left open. I am however, saying that the Vienna library had no other chance but 4o fail because Vienna was not given the same playing fiilld'ast rile atller libraixes: 6. 'I would appreciate it if you could provide the same statistics for Port Burwell and Straffordville . as you have for ~iennai 7, I honestly believe that If Vienna had been given the following, •the results would.ha"ue•l;"een different; FROM :TAYlor FAX N0. :5198744585 Mar. 24 2009 11:48AM P2 J ~ r•. . a) each person using the Vienna library advised to get a card for that library; b) ~Ilenna given fhe same opportude days to operate as the other two libraries; c) Vienna given the same dumber' of hours of operation per week; S. The amount of assistance this library makes to the type of the general population of'Vienna (Gennan decent adapting to Canadian) is something to be considered and should ba a large part ofyour decision; it is a definite asset to the school system and at a very low price; The atmosphere and familiarity of the Vienna. library offers inclusion into the community for newcomers. 9. It is true that Port Burwell and Straffordviile ]ibraries are less than lOkm from Vienna; it should also be considered that a) the port Burwell library is "extremely small" and groups of little people'that visit Vienna on Monday nights for "bingo", story time or video are sizable at times anti would mean that Straffordville (1 Okm) is the only option. The children doling these sessions may stay for one hour or more; these parents in Vienna, with other children to care for at home and chores to, leave their children at the Vienna library and walk back to collect them. 1EIow £ar, and how expensive is the trip to Straffordviile from Vienna when you have to drive fo drop them off and return again to pick them up. You also have not considered that transportation is not a given for a lot of people here. 10: Your decision is also being made without considering that this library could be incorporated into the Edison museum. 11. We have low income families in the south end ofthe Municipality and children with very little to do; a group of residents from Vienna actually did what I still consider annazing, they raised money, worked very hard getting f0nding and'~nanaged to place a skateboard park in the village l`oz the older children to have some~hitlg to da. Nary the coanty wlslles to claw the libtaiy which is greatly used by the younger children in Vienna. MARX TAYLOR - VIENNA RESIDENT' REPORTS OF COUNCIL AND STAFF APRIL 14. 2009 Staff Reports - (ATTACHED) 10 Court Services Supervisor - POA Streamlining Consultation Paper 12 Purchasing Coordinator- Semi-Annual Information Report- Contract Awards (July 1, 2008 to December 31, 2008) and Direct Negotiation Expenditures (Jan. -Dec. 2008) 21 Director of Community and Cultural Services -Appointment of Library Coordinator to OPLA Council 23 Director of Senior Services -Terrace Lodge -Adult Day Program Renovations 25 Director of Engineering Services -Land Purchase Policy -Revised Rates 28 Director of Financial Services - 2009 Proposed Operating Budget (Please bring your copy of budget (binder) to the meeting.) ~1~n~C'eta=i~zy REPORT TO COUNCIL FROM: Leesa Shanley Court Services Supervisor DATE: April 14, 2009 SUBJECT: POA Streamlining Consultation Paper INTRODUCTION: On January 29, 2009 the Ministry of the Attorney General released a Provincial Offences Act Streamlining Review Consultation Paper, outlining proposed amendments to the Provincial Offences Act. The Ministry has invited responses by April 17, 2009 from Municipalities that will be put into a final set of recommendations. DISCUSSION: In August of 2006 aProvincial-Municipal Working Group was created and is comprised of representatives of; The Municipal Court Managers' Association of Ontario, The Prosecutors' Association of Ontario, The Association of Municipalities of Ontario, The Ministry of Transportation, The Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, The Ministry of Small Business and Consumer Services and the Ministry of the Attorney General. The result of this Working Group is the Streamlining Review Paper. On February 27, 2009 the Municipal Court Managers Association (MCMA} met with the Ministry of the Attorney General (MAG). The MCMA is committed to ensuring that court managers and staff across Ontario municipalities lead the delivery of court administration service in a way that is responsive to the needs of individuals in contact with the Court. The MCMA has prepared an in depth response to the Streamlining Review Paper that addresses the nearly 40 proposed amendments to the Provincial Offences Act (POA) and has submitted this response to MAG. The Prosecutors' Association of Ontario and the Association of Municipalities of Ontario are each preparing their own response; as well various other committees will each prepare a response. For Council's information, a representative from the County of Elgin will sit on the MFOA working group to contribute to the financial recommendations as they relate to the potential to enhance the collections of the fines which will be brought forth by the MFOA. One area that has not been addressed relates to the fact that once again Courts are facing Court closures due to Justice of the Peace shortages. There have not been any Justices of the Peace appointed anywhere in the Province since the summer of 2007. Within the West Region alone, two Justices have passed away and at least one has retired with several more retirements being imminent in 2009 and 2010. In Elgin, one court session was cancelled in February and three more over July and August will be closed due to Justice of the Peace shortages. CONCLUSION: The streamlining process is a very important initiative and a great amount of work has been done by the working group, with still more work required prior to implementation of any of the recommendations. The streamlining process will require legislative reform and will take possibly years before implementation can occur. It is imperative that more Justice of the Peace be appointed to replace those that are retiring so that Municipalities can continue to run Courts efficiently and effectively. RECOMMENDATION: THAT the County respond to the Ministry of the Attorney General with an endorsement of the response submitted by the MCMA; and, THAT acknowledgement of the work done by the working group thus far be commended with confirmation that the County looks forward to contributing to the final set of recommendations when they are released; and THAT Council endorse the request for the appointment of more Justices of the Peace. All of which, is Respectfully Submitted Cee~s~a Shanley~ Court Services S Approved f ' sion Ma k~6:-McDona Chief Administrative Officer t~ im Bun schuh Director of Financial Services El~ui~~ouney P 0]itis i^ L/ N3W(~ REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Sonia Beavers Purchasing Coordinator DATE: March 23, 2009 SUBJECT: Semi-Annual Information Report -Contract Awards (July 1, 2008 to December 31, 2008) and Direct Negotiation Expenditures (Jan. -Dec. 2008) INTRODUCTION: As per the County of Elgin's Procurement Policy 10.1; " an information report containing the details relevant to the exercise of delegated authority for all contracts awarded that exceed $5,000 including amendments and renewals is to be prepared and reported to Council on a semi-annual basis". In addition, the County of Elgin's Procurement Policy 3.14 states; "Any expenditure exceeding $50,000 for a one time purchase or over an annual basis must be reported to Council". DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: The Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin delegated authority to the Directors to award contracts as follows; Value Report Status Greater than No report to Council required if within 10% of the $5,000 but less approved budget allocation than $50,000 Greater than No report to Council required if within approved budget $50,000 but less than $100,000 However, Council also approved that asemi-annual information report would be brought forward containing details of the award of contracts including amendments and renewals. The details of the award of contracts is attached as Appendix A. The Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin delegated authority to the Directors to purchase goods and services using the Direct Negotiation method. The Policy states as long as an attempt to purchase the required goods and services has been made in good faith, the goods or services can be purchased using the Direct Negotiation method. Purchases made using the Direct Negotiation method will be reported to Council on an annual basis. In addition, any expenditure exceeding $50,000 for aone-time purchase or over an annual basis must be reported to Council. The details of the Direct Negotiation, one time purchases and purchases exceeding $50,000 over an annual basis is detailed in Appendix B. RECOMMENDATION: THAT the Semi-Annual Information Report -Contract Awards, and Direct Negotiation Expenditures Report dated July 1, 2008 to December 31, 2008 be received and filed. All of which is Respectfully Submitted; Sonia Beavers Purchasing Coordinator im Bun schuh Director of Financial Services Approve ar-St~br~is ion by: Mark G. McDo Chief Administrative Officer APPENDIX A Purchases greater than $5,000 July 1, 2008 to December 31, 2008 Department Budget Project Award Bid Price Allocation (includes taxes) Engineering Capital Purchase of 18 Carrier Sales and $30,747.30 heat um s Service Engineering Capital Remove and R.A. Barnes $ 8,058.75 install four light Electrical pole bases and new li ht oles Engineering Operational Plumbing Services Ambrose $ 7,792.88 at Terrace Lode Plumbin Engineering Capital Supply and install DPA Contracting $45,016.49 concrete walkways at Terrace Lod e Engineering Capital Supply and Install Bernardo $ 7,339.50 wall protection at Flooring EI in Manor Engineering Capital Architect Services Paul Loreto $19,544.52 Handicap Ramp Renovations, isr floor washrooms Engineering Capital Install new J-AAR $11,865.00 waterline and roadway to sewage lant Engineering Capital Human Resources Bernardo $ 6,751.50 Carpet Re lacement Engineering Capital Supply and install G&S $ 6,742.05 kitchen cabinetry Woodworking in Activation at Terrace Lodge Engineering Capital Boulevard Island 180 Design $ 6,750.98 cut down at Center Highbury and Ron McNeil Line APPENDIX A Purchases greater than $5,000 July 1, 2008 to December 31, 2008 Department Budget Project Award Bid Price Allocation (includes taxes) Engineering Capital Planning Service Kirkness $ 7,088.92 for County Roads Consulting Inc. Plan and Policies Engineering Capital Window Phillips Dry $ 5,559.00 Coverings for Goods Human Resources Engineering Capital Replace Flooring Flooring Canada $11,643.47 at Bobier Villa Engineering Capital Repair damages Facca $ 7,983.98 to New Sarum Brid e Engineering Capital Erosion repair Birnam $ 5,710.45 work on Sunset Drive Engineering Capital Granular A Municipality of $ 6,367.12 Dutton/Dunwich En ineerin Ca ital Card Access FOB RMB $10,657.71 En ineerin Ca ital Si na a McBain Si na e $ 8,208.66 Engineering Operational Maps Pathfinder Maps $ 7,019.84 Engineering Operational Posts for South Stewart's $ 8,596.94 Park Cemeta Masona Engineering Capital Wall Tile for Elgin Bernardo Group $ 8,610.00 Manor Limited Engineering Capital Shoreline Shoreplan $ 5,806.08 Protection Dexter Line Engineering Operational Flags -New Logo Simpson $ 6,724.63 S ecialities En ineerin 0 erational Asbestos Removal G.T. Gardiner 7 854.00 Engineering Capital Carpet Bernardo $ 5,247.90 Replacement Adm. Buildin Engineering Capital Supply and install Climate Control $40,845.00 2 boilers at Terrace Lodge APPENDIX A Purchases greaterthan $5,000 July 1, 2008 to December 31, 2008 Department Budget Project Award Bid Price Allocation (includes taxes) Engineering Capital New roof at Flynn Canada $ 6,822.90 Bobier Villa Financial Capital Purchase of three Ricoh $27,822.49 Services Co iers Financial Automation Annual Software OLC Ontario $ 7,017.15 Services I.T. Fee OLC with Lansca es Financial Operational 3 year term Protek $10,675.65 Services I.T. Su ort Renewal Financial Operational Consulting Fee Protek $11,300.00 Services I.T. Renewal Financial Operational Wireless Access Protek $20,681.58 Services I.T. Point Financial Operational Server CDW $10,501.44 Services I.T. Financial Operational Laserfiche Protek $ 7,232.00 Services I.T. Su ort Terrace Lodge Capital Light bulbs and Westburne $ 7,431.59 fixtures Electric Terrace Lodge MOHLTC High Therapeutic KCI $ 6,000.00 Intensi Needs Mattress Administration Millrate Reserve Elgin County Road Tottem, Sims, $ 8,331.79 Services Needs Stud Hubicki Administration Millrate Reserve Elgin County Road Tottem, Sims, $ 8,157.40 Services Needs Stud Hubicki Administration Millrate Reserve Elgin County Road Tottem, Sims, $ 9,302.11 Services Needs Stud Hubicki Community and Operational Construct and Woodworking $ 5,719.48 Cultural Services Install Window Sculptor (museum) cabinets and two exhibitions Community and Capital Tradeshow Booth Yfactor $ 9,724.00 Cultural Services and Panels (Economic Development) APPENDIX A Purchases greaterthan $5,000 ]ul~l, 2008 to December 31, 2008 Department Budget Project Award Bid Price Allocation (includes taxes) Community and Capital Tradeshow Booth Yfactor $10,395.00 Cultural Services and Panels (Economic Develo ment Community and Capital Community and Yfactor $38,600.00 Cultural Services Municipal Profiles, (Economic Presentation Develo ment Folders Community and Capital EDCO 2009 Yfactor $11,235.00 Cultural Services Directory Ad (Economic Develo ment Community and Capital Promotional Items Yfactor $19,392.34 Cultural Services (Economic Development) Community and Capital Procurement and Yfactor $ 5,591.25 Cultural Services Design (Economic Management Develo ment Community and Capital Presentation Yfactor $90,410.00 Cultural Services Folders and (Economic printing Develo ment Community and Capital Business Yfactor $ 6,950.00 Cultural Services Attraction (Economic Package Develo ment Community and Capital Economic Yfactor $42,000.00 Cultural Services Development (Economic Website Develo ment Community and Capital Professional Fees Millier, Dickinson, $39,375.00 Cultural Services for Completion of Blais (Economic Marketing and Develo ment Brandin Strate APPENDIX A Purchases greater than $5,000 July 8, 2007 to December 31, 2008 Department Budget Project Award Bid Price Allocation (includes taxes) Community and Capital Elgin County Yfactor $16,350.00 Cultural Services Website (Economic Develo ment Community and Operational Professional Fees Millier, Dickinson, $26,250.00 Cultural Services Sector Profile and Blais Agri Business Sector Community and Operational Professional Fees Millier, Dickinson, $42,000.00 Cultural Services and expenses Blais Tourism Development Strategy and Marketin Plan APPENDIX B Direct Negotiation, one time purchases and purchases exceeding $50,000 over an annual basis. July 1, 2008 to December 31, 2008 Department Budget Purchase Award Bid Price Allocation (includes taxes) Homes Operational Raw Food Sysco $ 619 822 Homes Operational Nursing Supplies Various Suppliers $ 111,353 of Complete Purchasin Homes Operational Incontinent SCA and Med Pro $ 93,200 Products Direct All Departments Operational Office Products Lyreco and Van $ 54,759 for 2008 Pelts All Buildings Operational Lawn Westelaken $ 59,153 Maintenance for Yardworks, Dave 2008 Chesterfield, Jims Lawn Care Engineering Capital Consulting Fees Spriet Assoc. $305,500 Services Engineering Capital Consulting Fees SPH Engineering $ 55,237 Services Engineering Capital Consulting Fees Golder $131,007 Services Associates Community and Operational Books Brodart $120 511 Cultural Services All Buildin s Ca ital Paintin Klassen $ 78,578 All Buildings Operational HVAC Hitchman $ 81,277 Preventative Chalmers Maintenance APPENDIX B Direct Negotiation, one time purchases and purchases exceeding $50,000 over an annual basis. July 1, 2008 to December 31, 2008 Department Budget Purchase Award Bid Price Allocation (includes taxes Administration Operational Cleaning Contract J&A Cleaning $ 75,637 Buildin All Departments Operational Legal Services Hennessey, $154,642 Gibson and Ho an Community and Operational Books Library Bound $130,303 Cultural Services All Buildings Operational Plumbing Service Ambrose $ 56,787 Plumbin All Departments Operational Phone/Cable AMTelecom $673,306 Service Homes Operational Maintenance and Arjo $ 64,237 Purchase of e ui ment All De artments 0 erational Heat Pum s Climate Control 117,990 Homes 0 erational Milk Natrel $ 64,062 All De artments 0 erational Heatin Comsatec $192,600 Homes and Adm Operational Soap and Johnson Diversey $ 63,692 Buildin Chemicals All Buildin s 0 erational Electrical R.A.Barnes $ 64 123 All Departments Operational and Copiers and Ricoh $ 66,892 Ca ital Maintenance En ineerin Ca ital Consultin SPH En ineerin $ 55 238 Homes 0 erational Trans ortation Vo a eur $ 57,270 F1m„("c REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Brian Masschaele Director of Community and Cultural Services DATE: March 25, 2009 SUBJECT: Appointment of Library Coordinator to OPLA Council The Ontario Public Library Association (OPLA) Council currently has a vacancy for the position of Southwest Regional Councillor. Staff wish to nominate Ms. Sandi Loponen, Library Coordinator, to this position. DISCUSSION: The OPLA Council has requested a nominee from the Elgin County Library to serve the organization as Southwest Regional Councillor. Staff wish to submit the name of Sandi Loponen, Library Coordinator, to the position for an initial one- yearterm with possible renewal for three-year terms thereafter. The council pays all travel and meal costs associated with the four to six one-day meetings per year held in Toronto. The library's contribution would therefore be strictly in-kind through staff time. Staff fully support the request as such representation is a further sign of the good-standing that the Elgin County Library has achieved in the province and will be of great benefit in terms of shaping future library policy, programs and services. Staff are confident that this appointment can be balanced within the current duties of the coordinator's position but its impact will be assessed after the initial one-year term. The position does not have formal executive authority given that the OPLA is a division of the Ontario Library Association which appoints a separate Board of Directors. This recommendation is nevertheless made with the understanding that the Library Coordinator will maintain the best interests of the Elgin County Library and/or the County of Elgin as matters arise. CONCLUSION: The OPLA has represented the interests of the Elgin County Library well and staff are pleased to have the opportunity to contribute to its affairs through this appointment. RECOMMENDATION: THAT the Library Coordinator be authorized to serve as Southwest Regional Councillor on the Ontario Public Library Association Council for an initial one- year term beginning in June 2009 with possible renewal for additional three-year terms upon the approval of the Director of Community and Cultural Services. ian Masschaele Mark G. onald Director of Community and Chief Administra ive Officer Cultural Services );l~lll~ F>Lt 37th' P,o:~~,r-b,,,:<v« REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Rhonda Roberts Director of Senior Services -Terrace Lodge DATE: April 6, 2009 SUBJECT: Adult Day Program Renovations INTRODUCTION: In April 2008, the Adult Day Program (ADP) began receiving additional funding through the Aging at Home strategy which resulted in a surplus for the 2008/2009 budget year. This surplus will be utilised to fund renovations to the drop in centre at Terrace Lodge in order to provide adequate space for ADP. DISCUSSION: In 2008/2009 the ADP expanded as a result of the Aging at Home strategy, providing programming four days per week and two evenings. The ADP utilises a small room in the lower lever of Terrace Lodge adjacent to the drop in centre. The drop in centre is used only periodically for meetings and the occasional special event therefore is underutilised 80% of the time. The ADP has identified surplus funds for 2008/2009 which will be used to renovate the drop in centre. These are Ministry of Health funds and there is no cost to the County of Elgin for these renovations. Renovations include; addition of a wall, with double doors, to enclose the room, installation of a doorway to gain direct access to the tub/washroom used specifically for ADP purposes and painting. Additionally, the office area, currently utilised by VON, will be used as an ADP Respite beginning 200912010. Enclosing the drop in centre provides access to this office area which improves accessibility and security when respite use occurs. Discussions have occurred with VON concerning this potential move and a new location for their office within Terrace Lodge has been identified. The ADP respite, which functions independently from the current respites in the long term care home, can potentially be operational five nights per week and provide caregiver relief. CONCLUSION: The Adult Day Program, through surplus funds, has the ability to fund renovations to the current drop in centre at Terrace Lodge. There will be no cost to the County of Elgin for the planned renovations. These renovations will enhance the existing space and provide on-going opportunities for ADP growth through increased access and utilisation. RECOMMENDATION: THAT, Council support the renovations to the drop in centre for the Adult Day Program, and THAT, the report titled, "Adult Day Program Renovations", be received and filed. Respectfully Submitted ~~~~~~ ~' Rhonda Roberts Director of Senior Services Appr ored"~Subm ss'on Mark G. Chief Administrative Officer ~ Elgint'c~~ ~~1i }r °`°~'°~~'"°'Y""°`° REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Clayton Watters, Director of Engineering Services DATE: April 1, 2009 SUBJECT: Land Purchase Policy -Revised Rates INTRODUCTION: The County of Elgin completed a review of acquisition rates for land purchase in 2006. To remain current with .land prices paid for road widening purposes, an updated report determining current vacant land values in Elgin County has been completed by a certified appraiser. DISCUSSION: Moir Luft Real Estate Appraisal Services Limited, has provided current information on market values for vacant land in Elgin County. The sales in the report were analyzed on "sold" prices per unit of comparison. The sold prices were then used to calculate the mean (is the average of all the sales in the group), median (is situated in the middle of the group) and mode (is the range that holds the most number of sales). All the present categories are divided into three areas: West Elgin !Dutton/Dunwich; Southwold /Central Elgin and Malahide / Bayham. The land categories are: vacant agricultural land, vacant residential lots (small and large lots) and commercial /industrial lots. For vacant agricultural land prices staff is proposing that all agricultural land be classified as workable land. This is due to the fact that most agricultural land is or was workable and consolidating all agricultural land together would make the identification simple. The vacant lot categories are divided into two groups: small lots (0.004 Ha to 0.405 Ha) and large lots (over 0.405 Ha). It was felt that the cut off point be 0.405 Ha (1 Acre) due to rural land sizes being 0.405 Ha. These lands can accommodate services such as wells and septic systems. Smaller lots sizes (0.004 Ha to 0.405 Ha) are predominately in developed areas which usually have municipal services, with corresponding higher land values. The categories listed are divided into median, mean and mode. Staff is proposing that the mode be utilized due to the larger amount of information and the quality of statistical information that it produces. Staff is also recommending the highest price on the mode (range that holds the most number of sales) so that these rates could be used for several years. In order that the land purchase prices remain current and to ensure fair market prices are maintained, staff will obtain the services of a certified land appraiser to complete a review every four years. A report will be presented to County Council with adjusted appraised values every 4 years. CONCLUSION: Staff has retained the services of a certified appraiser to update the 2006 appraisal land prices and recommends new 2009 rates. In order for the land purchase prices to remain current, staff is recommending that the land purchase rates be updated as identified by the report and be reviewed by a certified land appraiser at least once every four years. RECOMMENDATION: THAT a certified land appraiser complete a comprehensive review at least once every four years and staff report to Council on those findings, and; THAT the County of Elgin purchase property, for road widening at the 2009 rates described below: Land Category: Agricultural Rates: $ per Ha Municipality 2007 Rates 2009 Rates West EI in and Dutton/Dunwich $8,600 $9,900 Southwold and Central Elgin $7,400 $7,400 Malahide and Ba ham $12,400 $9,450 Land Category: Vacant Residential Lots (0.004 to 0.405 Ha) Rates: $ per square meter Munici alit 2007 Rates 2009 Rates West Elgin and Dutton/Dunwich $9.00 $19.00 Southwold and Central Elgin $36.00 $24.50 Malahide and Bayham $20.50 $21.50 Land Category: Vacant Residential Lots (0.406 Ha and greater) Rates: $ per square meter Municipality 2007 Rates 2009 Rates West Elgin and Dutton/Dunwich $2.50 $6.00 Southwold and Central Elgin $7.50 $24.50 Malahide and Bayham $2.00 $7.00 Land Category: Industrial and Commercial Sites Rates: $ per square meter Municipalit 2007 Rates 2009 Rates All B A raisal B A raisal Respectfully Submitted UVIVV~ rW`~". Clayton Wafters Director, Engineering Services Approved r~atsrrrtssi Mark Chief Administrative Officer r,rn,~c~F, REPORT TO COUNCIL FROM: Jim Bundschuh -Director of Financial Services DATE: April 14th, 2009 SUBJECT: 2009 Proposed Operating Budget INTRODUCTION: The 2009 proposed budget is presented to Council with an overall levy increase of 4.9% predominately explained by increased Social Assistance Costs (4.7% impact on Levy) in support of the many workers negatively affected by this economic down turn. This increase will equate to a negligible 0.12% property tax rate increase. Despite the fact that operating budgets in all departments are experiencing inflationary pressure, as well as service level increases, the departments have more than offset these cost increases with efficiency improvements netting a 1% reduction or 0.7% on the Levy. These efficiencies includes the savings of reducing Director level positions from nine to seven, elimination of the Manager of Administrative Services position, eliminating the Manager of Library Services position, downsizing Human Resources by half a position, and elimination of the Ambulance and Emergency Management Coordinator position. The work performed by these eliminated positions was absorbed by the remaining staff. Some of these savings were used to fund an incremental 44 hours a week of ambulance coverage in St. Thomas. Additionally, work continues in the Economic Development Department, combined with the creation of a Planning Department, to ensure that Elgin County emerges from this economic down turn stronger than ever. DISCUSSION: Highlights of the budget are as follows: Line 1 -Taxes (excluding Levy): No net change from 2008. Greenlane assessment adds approximately $160,000 in additional Payment-In-Lieu revenue offset by increased potential Write-Off related to same property. Line 2 -Interest Income: Interest rates are expected to remain at historical lows throughout the year resulting in reduced return on investments precipitating a $100,000 reduction in income. Lines 3&8 -Social Services Costs net of OMPF funding: Up $1.0 million as a result of the economic downturn's impact. The City has not finalized their budget as yet. The numbers provided are an estimate only. Line 9 -Transfer to Reserves/Capital: Up $96,526 or 1.4% well below the target increase of 5% to keep pace with construction inflation. 2008 Operating Surplus of $905,830 used to keep increase down while also reserving $166,667 for the St. Thomas-Elgin Hospital Foundation and adding $450,000 to the Mill Rate Stabilization Reserve in preparation for the potential reduction of the provincially funded OMPF grant and expected increased Social Services costs in 2010. Line18 -Homes: Reduced budget as a result of increased provincial revenue due to an increased Case Mix Index resulting from continued diligent documentation combined with efficiencies resulting in a total improvement of $547,833. Line 24 -Ambulance: An increase of $178,528 reflecting a wage settlement of 2.5% and an increased level of service for St. Thomas impacting 2009 by $135,000. The hours for the third ambulance in St. Thomas were increased from 8 hours 5 days a week to 12 hours 7 days a week in the second half of 2008. Since implementation standby calls have been reduced by 66.4%. These increases were partially offset by the elimination of the Ambulance and Emergency Management Coordinator position. Line 25 -Economic Development, Tourism and Planning: An increase of $221,284 to continue the work planned within the Economic Development Department to attract new investment to the County. This includes the first phase of implementation of the department's comprehensive marketing strategy as approved by Council in 2008 as well as the first full year of the County's operation of tourism services. Additionally, a Planning Department is being established to ensure that when the economy begins its recovery, Elgin County will be prepared to take advantage of an economic rebound. This budget assumes a $69,850 contribution toward Tourism. The levy increase is proposed at $1,065,586 or 4.9% over 2008. Total weighted assessment has increased 4.9% over 2008 with residential properties equity increasing 5.25% from 2008. The levy increase equates to a 0.12% increase to the residential tax rate versus a 5.71% increase in 2008. The Municipal Treasurers are in agreement that the tax ratios and capping parameters remain consistent with 2008 in order to avoid transferring tax burden to the residential properties. As an example, a residential property experiencing an average assessment increase of 5.25% with an assessed 2008 value of $200,000 would see an increase in County taxes as follows: $190,000 X 2008 tax rate of 0.583075% $ 1,108 `$200,000 X 2009 estimated tax rate of 0.583937% 1,168 Increase in County taxes $ 60 per year or $ 5 per month CONCLUSION: The attached budget reflects an unprecedented level of efficiencies made throughout the departments to enable the levy increase to be kept to a reasonable level while supporting delivery of social programs to the vulnerable, and ensuring that the County is prepared to take advantage of the economic growth potential that will occur when the global economy comes out of recession. RECOMMENDATION: THAT the report titled 2009 Proposed Operating Budget be received and filed; and THAT the 2009 Proposed Operating Budget in Attachment I be approved; and THAT the 2009 Tax Rates and Ratios in Attachment II be approved; and THAT the 2009 Reserves and Capital Budget dated March 11, 2009 be approved; and THAT the 2009 Request for Grants and Loans dated March 1, 2009 be approved; and THAT the necessary by-law be prepared. Respectfully Submitted 6f^- Jim Bundschuh Director of Financial Services Appro u i n Mark G. c ona Chief Administrative Officer F Z W 2 Q Q ~"' W Z m J ~ W W ~ ~ oa ?a O V N W rn Z ro Q r o x U U N 0 W ~° O M 0] Q ~ U ° x o .D U `_ ~ ~ m UI °~ a ~ m O C 00 U U ~ ~ ~ 0 O o O to o F U W Z O CO 0 ~ a 0 U O ~ a O 07 N Z O W U a W l6 O C W F p ~ 0 W U '~ N Z a` W M O O W (j cov~ Z 6] r N M V l O C O I~ M 0 O 0 0 0 0° o~o°a° o 0 10 N O N O V ~ OON 0,~,~ O (V O IO O f t (j 0 W O O N N OO V M ~ V d' ~ ~ ~fi 7 dv erN- I~~~MN° ~ ~ N 0~ C O ~ M ~ ~ 'V' .d. 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Q >>K~O ~Wx_ ~ I-~W ~ WO ~ ~ m i- Oh-WOF OcAO> ZO(nxf w QQ w'f~JWK F"Z~Q W OQUW J ~ ~ t-QxF- ~w~~U QU~.zw a r w~~z~ OWCnx~ gZUgw m a °ZZaZ aZww~ ~>~~z ° a w O r~ M~ t 0 O I~ 0 0 0 0 r N M 7 I n 1 O c- r r r r r r N N N N N N N e a N O r 0 n N N W 0 0 n N n ao ~ J N N 2 O N M Q1 0 O N M 0 r h m M r N ¢o?~oOZOxm~a'O~~ O o ~¢wx¢Uwx~~?aUQw F- F- a a °o N a 0 0 O 0 0 a d m 9 a' m 0 LL C GI E t v Q Z (7 w LL O Z 7 O U m 0 g m U W J O W x U Y L O O O O O O O O O O O O m N O O O O O O O O O O O O ornornMCOi.M(000MM C ~ N ~ ~ ~ M m r <t ~ W N r .n- U aNi ~ M y o W o o° o° a° o° o° o 0 00 0° o° o p~F ~~~~~~~~r.N-cN-~ ~~ 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 t U o ~ ~ M M o o NNo Nnl ~ W ~ ~O O O ~ m ~ ~ ~ O yy n M W EN i ~O MOrtnO W M V a0h~ ~ N x W (00 N(00 ~f1 I~COTT ~ MN O<D NOO (00(O Q O r O O O r O r r O O O f' ~ \ \° \ \° \° \° \ \ \ \ \ \ 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 W °' ti° ~m~ ° ~ m ~I - r rno m c ~v o G~ O r N m M 7 M N M r~ W~ M r M h In N M 1~ O N ~ O O ~ O O V' ~ I~ (O V V ~ M N m c0 N W c0 O c0 r r O r 0 0 0 r O r r 0 0 0 F ~ ~ O N d N J .-~ G 41 N Z ~ "' O p N 'j ~ w U W ~ a N oa F o ~ z d E ~ ~ N a x 'a O ~ .~ , ~ z a Z w p o W pg ZUU ~ aS pW F,p Ua m rn ~ ~ z~ Q a Z~ ~ cn E Q - U Q ~ ~ U Za0>UUKK W m n g Q F- F- ~ OW O ~ Q~~U ~~pUU O ~ m ~ W Z~Z~KKK??w c ~i o a Q ~ J ~ ~ ~ > > ~ ~ W ~ Z +~ ~ t a p p a ~~LL°O LL~ gg ~ fl..-- x ZZ a a io CORRESPONDENCE -April 14. 2009 Items for Consideration Dennis Travale, Chair, South Central Ontario Region (SCOR) clarifying provisions of the MOU regarding quorum and voting. (ATTACHED) A ~flt ~~ ~` Y~ 3 ~ i r E_~ P=~;r; ~ ~~~ coos March 24, 2009 ~t~ty~~ ~~ es~ ~i~h~ ADMINISTRATIVE S~RVIGES Mr. Mark G. McDonald Chief Administrative Officer County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas ON NSR SV 1 Dear Mr. McDonald: 12E: SCOR MOU Thank you very much for your letter dated March 2, 2009. You had requested clarification of the provisions of the MOU regarding quorum and voting. As you have noted, the MOU currently provides for the following: Decision making will be by consensus. Where, in the opinion of the Chair, a consensus cannot be reached, there will be a vote. Each County shall have one (1) vote. (MOU section 3.1.3) A quorum shall be six (6) members. (MOU section 3.2) At the time that the MOU was drafted, the requirement for the attendance of at least 6 members of the Executive Committee (the same is true of the Administrative Committee) was chosen to ensure that no meeting, discussion or decision could happen without representation from at least 3 of the 5 County partners being present. Since each Committee is made up of a total of 10 members, the attendance of at least 6 members also ensures that a majority of the members are present to conduct business. The conduct of business for the two Committees is to be done by consensus. Again, this method was chosen in order to ensure that the perspective of all members would be taken into account and that the organization would make decisions that were supportable by all of its members. In the instance where a consensus cannot be reached, and an official vote is taken, each County partner gets one vote and using municipal rules, a majority of voting members present carry the vote. So if a115 members vote, 3 is a majority. A majority for the purposes of official voting is distinctively different than a quorum for the purposes of being able to convene a meeting. This is traditionally how consensus decision making works. Mr. M. McDonald Page 2 March 24, 2009 How each County determines who votes is entirely up to that County but it is expected that both members will fully participate in all aspects of the Committee's work. Typically in our Committee work we have only been voting to adopt minutes and approve expenditures and, to date, there have been no issues so divisive that we have had to turn to an official vote. In the unfortunate case where that happens, it is expected that the representatives from each County will indicate who is exercising the voting right in that instance. I hope that this has clarified the operation of the current MOU. If you have any questions or require any further information, please contact me. Sincerely, ~~~i ~~~~ De T ale, Chair South Central Ontario Region (SCOR) DT:HA:mr cc: SCOR Executive Committee SCOR Administrative Committee SCOR -MAILING ADDRESS 200 Broadway, 2"d Floor, Tillsonburg, Ontario N4G 5A7 Canada Telephone: (519) 842-6428, Ext. 3250 /Fax: (519) 842-9431 Web: www.scorreaion.com IEmail: scorCaZscorregion.com March 2, 2009 Mr. Dennis Travale, Chair South Central Ontario Region (SCOR) c/o County of Norfolk Main Admin. Building 50 Colborne Street S. SIMCOE, Ontario N3Y 4N5 Dear Mr. Travale: Subject: Clarification of Definition of Quorum As you are aware, the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the South Central Ontario Region (SCOR) was designed to "establish the framework for collaboration between parties". That MOU appears to hold a contradiction in terms of the number of voting members and the definition of quorum. Each participating municipality has two elected appointees but only one vote. The ten member Executive Committee, in essence, has five voting members. Quorum then must be three members not six as defined in section 3.2 of the MOU, as only voting members have status. When agreement on matters is uncontested and decisions are being made on a. consensus basis, the definition of quorum maybe somewhat moot. However, one of the primary responsibilities of the Executive Committee is to approve expenditures and there may be occasions in the future where consensus is difficult to achieve, especially when projects are being reviewed and approved for funding. For example, it is possible that a duly constituted meeting is convened and less than six elected officials attend (however three voting members are present). Will the meeting be cancelled due to lack of a quorum? Strictly speaking, under this scenario, a quorum of voting members is present and the meeting is legitimate. .../2 County of Elgin Atlminlstratlve Services 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, On N5R 5V1 Phone: 519-631-1460 www.elgln-cou nTy.on.q Pvogressive by Nature i Mr. Dennis Travale, Chair South Central Ontario Region (SCOR) -2- March 2, 2009 Another possible outcome involves a situation where the two elected members may actually disagree on the disposition of a vote on a project. Which member is then given the right to vote? In Elgin, one elected official was granted primary voting privileges and the other was given alternate voting rights (in the absence of the primary voter). While rare, it is conceivable that the two elected members could cancel the other's vote. In that case, is quorum six members or three? Is the vote by consensus or by actual vote count recognizing only one vote per municipality? Again, it is recognized that these situations may be occasional, however, the intent of the MOU is to develop a framework for collaboration. Let's ensure that document is unambiguous, given the likelihood that $15 million of projects is being adjudicated by the Executive Committee. The simple answer is to define quorum as three whole members, thereby eliminating any possibility of confusion, especially when important economic development projects are being considered across the five geographical areas. Elgin County Council respectfully requests that the Executive Committee review this matter with a view to clarifying the definition of quorum in the MOU. We look forward to your response. Yours Chief Administrative Officer. CORRESPONDENCE -April 14, 2009 Items for Information (Consent Agenda) Hon. Kathleen Wynne, Minister of Education, acknowledging Council's concerns regarding community uses of vacant schools. (ATTACHED) 2. Randy Millard, CAO/Clerk, Malahide Township, with resolution of support for the County's March 2, 2009 correspondence to the Minister of Community and Social Services concerning the cost of training to implement the new AODA standards. 3. Hon. Madeleine Meilleur, Minister, Ministry of Community and Social Services, acknowledging Council's concerns regarding the implementation cost of the new AODA requirements. (ATTACHED) 4. Luiza Moczarski, Public Relations Supervisor, Kettle Creek Conservation Authority, with copy of their 2008 Annual General Report and 2008 Watershed Report Card. (AVAILABLE FOR VIEWING IN ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES) 5. Mary Olde, Director of Administration, The Elgin Military Museum, with thank you for donation to the Museum Memorial Fund in Charles Phillips name. (ATTACHED) 6. Richard Stephenson, Chair, Assessment Review Board, outlining changes to the appeals process commencing in 2009. (ATTACHED) 7. Lyle McLean, Chair, Board of Governors, St. Thomas-Elgin General Hospital, with Summary of STEGH Community Business Leaders Reception held January 27, 2009. (ATTACHED) 8. Jean Chaput, for Bonfield-East Ferris Disaster Relief Committee, with thank you for Donation to East Ferris/Bonfield Flood Relief effort. (ATTACHED) 9. Volunteer Application for International Plowing Match Elgin-St. Thomas 2010. (ATTACHED) 10. Premier Dalton McGuinty, Premier of Ontario, acknowledging Council's concerns regarding legislation to regulate retirement homes. 11. Donna Ethier, CAO/Clerk, Township of Southwold; acknowledging Council's concerns regarding Health and Safety legislation issues. Ministry of Education Minister Mowat Block Queen's Park Toronto ON M7A 1 L2 Telephone (416) 325-2600 Facsimile (416) 325-2608 MinistPre de ('Education Ministre Edifice Mowat Queen's Park Toronto ON M7A 1L2 Telephone (416) 325-2600 Telecopieur (416) 325-2608 ~~ Ontario ~: r ~,. ~ Fcn'~ March 19, 2009 Mr. Graham Warwick Warden County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas ON NSR SV 1 Dear Mr. Warwick, ANMINIS~~~,i IVe S~I~VICF1 Former warden Sylvia Hofhuis wrote to me about a council resolution requesting a change to the funding formula to recognize community uses of vacant schools or vacant space in schools. Thank you for the opportunity to respond. My colleague Steve Peters, MPP for Elgin-Middlesex-London, also forwarded the correspondence to my attention. I applaud the establishment of partnerships between school boards and municipalities concerning the community use of schools; this type of cooperation keeps communities vital and alive. The Pupil.4ccommod'ation Review Guideline released in October 2006 provides an evaluation framework wherein it is expected that school boards will work with their communities to explore the best options to provide students with sustainable good places to leatn. The framework includes a review of the value of a school to the students, the community, the board, and the local economy. As you may know, a Declining Enrolment Working Group was established in May 2008 to provide recommendations on strategies to continue improving student achievement while addressing the impacts of declining enrolment. As part of its mandate, the working group was asked to consider the possibilities of cooperative approaches, specifically the sharing of school facilities with community entities to improve programming or reduce operating costs for school boards with surplus capacity. I am hopeful that advice from the working group report will help us continue to work with boards and assist them in making the transition to reduced enrolment. .../2 -2- I appreciate the comments and concerns of Elgin County about the use of schools in the community. The ministry will take these comments into consideration in its continuous review of education funding policy. Sincerely, ~~~~~~ "' Kathleen Wynne Minister of Education c: The Honourable Steve Peters MPP, Elgin-Middlesex-London 87 John Sfreef Soufh, Aylmeq Ontario N5H 2C3 Telephone: 519-773-5344 Fax: 519-773-5334 www.township, malahide.on.ca theT®WNSH ~ pof A proud tradition, a brightfuture. March 23, 2009. Honourable Madeleine Meilleur, Minister of Community and Social Services, 80 Grosvenor Street, Hepburn Block, 6th Floor, Toronto, Ontario. M7A lE9 Dear Minister: ' ~~_~~. ,, ti~Af; 2 ~ 2009 COUid~"V' OF ELGIN ao~INISrAA~IVE s~r~vlc~~ RE: Cost and Implementation Schedule of New AODA Standards. Malahide Township Council passed the following Resolution on March 19, 2009: THAT the letter from Elgin County dated March 2, 2009, concerning the cost and implementation Schedule of the New DADA Standards be supported. We enclose a copy of the County of Elgin's letter for your convenience. Yours very truly, TOWNSHIP OF MALAHIDE R MILLAR, CAO/CLERK Copy - County of Elgin V - MPP Steve Peters. H:\diana's filesuZandy 2009\Elgin County -DADA Standards mar 23.doc RANDALL R. MILLARD ~ SUSAN E. WILSON C.A.O./Clerk Treasurer trea surerQtownshi p. mala h ide. on.ca Ministry of Community Minist~re des Services and Social Services sociaux et communautalres Ministers Office Bureau de la ministre Hepburn Block Edifice Hepburn ~~ Ontario Queen's Park Queen's Park Toronto ON M7A 1E9 Toronto (Ontario) M7A tE9 Tel.: (416) 325-5225 TAI.: 416 325-5225 Fax: (416) 325-3347 T81~c.: 416 325-3347 r~~a e _ ts~aa- MAR 2 5 2009 Af'(~ 0 1 lgQ9 NIr. Mark McDonald CQ~~YY ®F C~~~ Chief Administrative Officer A~M~N~STRATiVE 5~~y~~~ County of Elgin Administrative Services 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario NSR SVl Dear Mr. McDonald: Thank you for your letter regarding the Accessible Information and Communications Standard under the Accessibility fw• Ontar'ians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA). To give businesses and organizations time to implement the requirements of the AODA, previous standards have included a staggered timetable for complying. The Customer Service Standard, for example, states that public sector organizations must comply by January 1, 2010 and all other businesses and organizations are required to comply by January 1, 2012. In future, final accessibility standards, such as the Information and Communications Standard, may also feature staggered compliance dates. Additionally, in order to mitigate the financial impacts of making accessibility improvements, the AODA allows for the integration of accessibility improvements into regular business and fiscal planning over time. The act does not contain provisions for funding accessibility initiatives, but rather, allows individual organizations the flexibility to plan for and implement changes within their planning cycles. The government is committed to an approach that supports organizations to ensure their success in meeting the requirements of the standards. That is why my ministry is developing numerous resources and has partnered with various organizations to assist them in achieving this goal. Once again, thank you for writing and for your interest in accessibility for all Ontarians. Sincerely, ~/I ~~i`Z/~C,~it~ Madeleine Meilleur Minister ~~~ MAR ~ S 2009 44015 Ferguson Line St. Thomas, ON NSP 3T3 Tel: 519-631-1270 Fax: 519-631-5026 Member Municipalities: Central Elgin City of London City of St. Thomas Middlesex Centre Thames Centre Malahide Township Southwold Township Membero! ~~ Consecration ONTARIO ss ~u~P~o~:, March 24, 2009 To: Conservation Authorities of Ontario Conservation Ontario Fanshawe College Central Elgin City of London City of St. Thomas Local Libraries Middlesex Centre Ministry of Natural Resources, Aylmer Orrtario Legislative Library Thames Cenh~e Township of Malahide Township of Southwold University ofWestern Ontario Watershed MP's and MPP's COUNTY ®R ELGIN ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES I am pleased to provide you with a copy of the 2008 Annual General Report for Kettle Creek Conservation Authority. The 2008 report describes how, through environmental education, stewardship initiatives, environmental planning and conservation areas improvements, KCCA is ensuring that the watershed community is able to realize and appreciate the beauty and value of their local natural environment. Please also find enclosed Kettle Creek Source Protection Authority's Annual Report for 2008 and the 2008 Watershed Report Card for Kettle Creek Conservation Authority. Should you have any questions or comments, or would like additional copies please do not hesitate to contact oru• office at (519) 631-1270. Sincerely, (__f ~ ~---._. Luiza Moczarski Public Relations Supenvisor PATROA!• THE SARI. OF F.LG1N AND KINCARllINH TELEPHONE (S I9) 6}3-7641 THE ELGllif MILITARY MUSEUM 30 "Talbot Strcet, SL Thomas, Ontario NSP IA3 March 26, 2009 Af'F; 0 1 2009 County of Elgin Council & Staff, 450 Sunset Drive, St.Thomas, Ontario N5R 5V1 Dear Sir or Madam: COUNTY OF CLOIN A®MINISTRATIU~ ~E~~VIC~~ On behalf of the Members and Executive Committee of the Elgin Military Museum, I would like to thank you for your generous donation of Seventy Five dollars to our Museum Memorial Fund. The Museum is grateful for your decision to honour the memory of Charles Phillips in this way. Because of generous donations like yourselves Charlie's name will be added to our Memorial Plaque in the foyer of the museum. As the Museum moves into the 21St Century following our path of "preserving the past ... for the future", it is comforting to have the support of generous benefactors such as yourself. With our recent expansion into the former Elgin County Pioneer Museum, your support is needed and appreciated more than ever before and the confidence your support gives provides the drive to continually improve our operation. Please find enclosed your Official Receipt for Income Tax Purposes, No. 7116, in the amount of Seventy Five dollars. Again, please accept our sincere thanks for your generosity. Yours truly, '/j' .; ~~~ • Mary ~ de Director of Administration Assessment Review Board 655Bay Street 15th Floor Toronto ON M5G 1E5 Telephone: (416) 314-6900 Toll Free: 1-800-263-3237 Fax: (416) 314-3717 Toll Free Fax: 1.877-849-2066 Web Site: vww.arb.gov.on.ca ~a ; a, ~F i~' ~`; ~' Commission de revision r ~.,:n ~ a ~h s ~ ~~ G~x~ de I'Svaluation fonci~re 655 rue Bay `" I~p~Z ~ ~ ZoQ9 15 Btage Toronto ON M5G tE5 aa t~ rr~~ a' ' T~I~phone: (416) 314-6900 CQesIU` I ~ v~ ~LGI~ ~ ~ERVIC~S 8 3 3 T~IBcopaeu r: ~t4/MINI~TR~TIV~ (4 6) 314 371 Sans Frais: 1-877-849-2066 Site Web: www.arb.gov.on.ca DATE: March 27, 2009 Ortterio TO: ARB Vice Chairs and Members ARB Stakeholders -MPAC, Municipalities, Counsel of the Assessment Bar, Property Tax Representatives FROM: Richard F. Stephenson, Chair ' RE: Appeals Streaming Strategy-2009 and Beyond I am writing to provide you with the Board's direction with respect to the expeditious resolutioh of its caseload for 2009 and beyond. With the new four-year reassessment cycle, commencing in 2009, there are significant changes to the appeals process. Residential property appeals require mandatory filing of Requests for Reconsideration (RfR) with the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) and/or Program Administrators for Farm, Managed Forest and Conservation Land properties by March 31. For other property types, the deadline to appeal to the ARB is March 31, unless an RfR is filed. If an RfR is filed, the deadline to appeal to the Assessment Review Board (ARB) is 90 days from the date of MPAC's decision. For third party appeals, where the appellant is not the property owner, the deadline to file with the ARB is March 31. The Board continues to case manage its current caseload of approximately 66,000 pre-2009 complaints. Over 70% of the caseload is non-residential matters in pre-hearings. With the revisions to the ARB's Rules of Practice and Procedure, effective April 1, 2009, the following guiding principles will be considered for the streaming of the new caseload. All appeals where a RfR decision has been issued will be scheduled into the Direct Hearing stream, regardless of value. Properties with values in excess of $8M will be streamed into the Case Managed stream in the following municipalities: Cities of Toronto, Ottawa, and cities within York, Peel, Halton and Durham regions. For all other municipalities, properties valued in excess of $4M will be streamed into the Case Managed stream. All properties below the noted thresholds will be streamed into the Direct Hearing stream. /J i i ...12 7~~~3i~6/ Assessment Revlew Board Appeals Streaming Strategy-2009 and Beyond -2- The. Board will schedule appeals for the 2009 taxation year where there are no outstanding appeals from the previous years: The Board will not schedule 2009 appeals with previous year's appeals outstanding for the same roll number. The Board will provide 45 to 60 days notice of hearing events, but not less than 14 days without consent. Hearings on 2009 matters will begin in the summer of 2009. Panies will not normally be consulted on dates, but the Board on matters in the Case Managed stream will endeavour to contack parties to coordinate the commencement of scheduling. Parties may write td the Board and request to transfer streams for any property. Such requests must outline the basis for the request, and must be copied to all other parties. Please refer to the Board's Rules in this regard. Where practical, the Board will schedule appeals filed by representatives into the same hearing event. Thank you for your continued cooperation. ~~~ Richard F. Stephenson Chair Attachment: Practice Direction #1-2009 Transition to the Rules effective April 1, 2009 PRACTICE DIRECTION #1 - 2009 TRANSITION TO THE RULES (Effective April 1, 2009) The Board's Rules of Practice and Procedure have been substantially revised, effective April 1, 2009. All appeals for the 2009 and subsequent years will be scheduled into the Direct Hearing Stream or the Gase Managed Stream in accordance with the Board's Streaming Strategy - 2009 and Beyond. In the case of pre-2009 appeals where there have been a number of pre- hearings, the Board will consider whether such appeals under the new thresholds should be scheduled for hearings in the Direct Hearing Stream. Parties and their representatives in such appeals should be prepared to inform the Board at their next pre-hearing whether they are ready to proceed to a hearing and their suggested dates for such hearing. If the parties are not ready for a hearing to be scheduled, the parties will be required to explain to the Board the reason and to indicate when they will be ready to proceed. If parties believe that such appeals should remain in the Case Managed Stream, they should provide reasons to the Board for its consideration. In appeals where Central Issues have been identified, the parties are directed to submit a-case management plan to the Board prior to the next scheduled hearing event. 189 Elm Street, St. Thomas, Ontario, Canatla N5R 5C4 Tel 519 631-2020 Fax 519 631-1825 March 31, 2009 ~tPf? D 1 2009 Mr. Mark McDonald County of Elgin 450 Sunset Dr. St. Thomas, ON N5R 5V1 `~~~~ COUNTY OF ELGIN ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICE Thank you for attending our Community Business Leaders Reception on January 27, 2009. It proved to be a positive and informative session regarding the role of the hospital as it relates to our business community. As discussed, we have summarized the key points from the evening as well as suggested potential actions (attached). One of the most crucial aspects agreed upon is that we continue to find ways to collaborate to make the greatest impact for our community. We plan to develop a "focus group" for discussion and planning input, and would like to know of your possible participation in such a group. For example, this group may be part of our capital redevelopment planning process and could be directly involved in the presentation of plans to MPP Steve Peters, prior to submission to the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care. We also understand the need for developing greater communication with our business partners. In addition to our website (www.stegh.on.ca), monthly newsletters and inserts in local newspapers, we plan to keep you informed through email. Should you wish to be added to our database, please forward your contact information to Cathy Fox, Communications/Public Relations Specialist at cfox@stegh.on.ca Despite the economic downturn, we remain optimistic about the future of our community. Together, we can create strategic plans for positive redevelopment of our city and county, giving our citizens every opportunity for success. Thank you for your commitment to this effort. Sincerely, ~~J Lyle McLean Chair, Board of Governors Our Core Values Compassion Respect Aaountabiliry Simplicity STEGH Community Business Leaders Reception Summary of Meeting January 27, 2009 Below is a summary of the key themes regarding the economic role of the hospital in the community. • Health and Safety Issues -there needs to be ongoing dialogue between businesses and the health unit to advance a safe and healthy work environment. • Communication with the Community -need to promote the hospital and its services to business • Clarity of Role and Mission -the partners responsible for Long Term Care, Alternate Level of Care (ALC) and senior's residential care need clarity of role and mission when looking at the utilization of space available at the hospital. • Emergency Department -services provided by the emergency department is an important issue. Wait times and triage process are not clear to all. • Availability of New Doctors -there is concern about the availability of new Doctors and how information is provided to the public on is accepting patients. • Jobs In the Community _The hospital employs more than 700 people resulting in at least 3 to 4 spin off jobs in the community. A high percentage of these employees work and live in St. Thomas and Elgin County. The hospital may be the most viable business in town • Infrastructure Money From Government - A renovation or rebuild of the hospital may fuel growth and employment in St. Thomas. The hospital has received funding for a detailed study of the physical plant needs and needs to move forward with the plan to support mental health beds at STEGH. What do we need to do? • Continue to Develop Communication -keep businesses and population informed • Knowledge-based Workforce -need to embrace aknowledge-based workforce and re-focus on other industries, high tech business and knowledge-based investment. A successful hospital can drive these challenges and will have a positive effect on drawing business, residents and retirees to the community. • Green Technology -consider the impact of green technology and "green collar" work. A partnership with energy generation at the hospital is a viable option. • Communicate the Positive -communicate that industries are hiring and large building permits are being let. Turn the "bad news" into an advantage when trying to generate support for the community. • Empty Space at STEGH -Zook at space opportunity to reduce the pressure of ALC occupancies, as well as to generate income for the hospital as a landlord. Page 1 Possible Suggested Actions _ There is a need for not just the hospital but the entire community, county and city to work together. • A public industrial/economic strategy for the city. • Consider business as a partner with the hospital in developing future plans. • Coordinate with business employers to review their hospital experience, including providing speakers from the hospital to inform and educate companies, employees and community groups. • Hospital to consider broader use of communication technology. Page 2 F 'R ~~ ~4 Ste"" ~~' '`~ S ~:` 3 J S 1{i V'J r~t~~ ~ ~ zoos c®ur~,~ ~ ®~ ~L~rN ARMINI~1'RATIVE SE~VIC~~ °Small ' ,Bi HeatP CANTON - BONFIELD -TOWNSHIP CANTON -EAST FERRIS -TOWNSHIP P.O. BOX 85 365 Highway 531 390 Highway 94 Bonfield, ON. POH lE0 Corbeil, ON. POH 1K0 Dear Mayor and Council Thank you for your generous support of the East Ferris \ Bonfield Flood Relief effort. Your heartfelt investment in our community is helping many area families recover from the disaster. Your generosity helped the East Ferris \ Bonfield Flood Relief Committee raise approximately $26,000 and for every dollar raised the Province will contribute up to $2.00. It is very comforting to know that in times of trouble there are generous Communities which can be counted onto help in times of trouble. Through your generosity, we will be able to help families receive assistance for those basic recovery needs not covered by insurance or other agencies. Once again thank you for supporting the spirit of our community. r Jean Chaput For Bonfield-East Ferris Disaster Relief Committee SEPTEMBER 21 to 25, 2010 www.ipm2010.com VOLUNTEER APPLICATION (Please print) PERSONAL INFORMATION NAME: _ ADDRESS: _ CITY: POSTAL CODE: HOME PHONE: ( ) WORK PHONE: ( ) EMAIL: AGE: (circle) Under 16 16-19 20-29 30-49 50-64 65+ SEX (circle) M F AVAILABILITY Events Prior to IPM _ Yes No During IPM _ I am available anytime during t he IPM Tuesday, September 21, 2010 Morning _ Afternoon _ Evening Wednesday, September 22, 20 10 Morning _ Afternoon _ Evening Thursday, September 23, 2010 _ Morning _ Afternoon _ Evening Friday, September 24, 2010 Morning _ Afternoon _ Evening Saturday, September 25, 2010 Morning _ Afternoon _ Evening AREAS OFINTEREST 1) Circle your areas of interest: special events, opening/closing ceremonies, security, information booth, lounge, souvenirs, admissions/gates, parking, wagon tours No preference......anywhere needed. 2) Do you have any special skills and/or experience in the areas of interest you have indicated? If so, please list your relevant skills and/or experience. Skills and/or Experience: SERVICE CLUB AFFILIATION 1) Are you volunteering with a Service Club? _ Yes _No 2) If yes, which Service Club? Have you been directly contacted to volunteer by any committee members? If so, W110 haS COntacted y0U? (Please print name) SIGNATURE OF VOLUNTEER: DATE: Please forward your completed volunteer application to: Elgin - St. Thomas 2010 International Plowing Match 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, ON N5R 5V1 Fax: (519) 631-6573 Thanks for your interest in volunteering at the Elgin - St. Thomas 20101nternationa/ Plowing Match! Office Use -Date Received: The Premier Le Premier ministre '~ of Ontario de 1'Ontario Legislative Building Edifice de I'Assemblee legislative Queen's Park Queen's Park ®~® Toronto, Ontario Toronto (Ontario) Ontario M7A tAt M7A tA1 April 1, 2009 ~ .~_„< AF'R ®6 2009 CGUN`I'Y G~ ~LG{N ADMINISTRATiV~ SSRVICES Mr. Mark G. McDonald Chief Administrative Officer County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 5V1 Dear Mr. McDonald: Thank you for your letter of March 26 providing me with a copy of council's resolution regarding legislation to regulate retirement homes. I appreciate your keeping me informed of council's activities. As this issue would also interest the Honourable Aileen Carroll, Minister Responsible for Seniors, I have sent her a copy of council's resolution. I trust that the minister will also take council's views into consideration. Thank you again for the information. Yours truly, Dalton McGuinty Premier c: The Honourable Aileen Carroll TOWNSHIP OF SOUTHWOLD 35663 Fingal Line Fingal, ON NOL 1 KO OFFICE OF THE CLERK April 2, 2009 County of Elgin Administrative Services 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, ON N5R 5V1 Re: Health and Safety Standards Dear Warden Warwick: Phone: (519) 769-2010 Fax: (519) 769-2837 Email: cao@twp.southwo/d.on.ca A~'R C E ~CD9 e~u~~v ~~ I~~~ ADi~INiS~~ATIVE SE~iVICE~ Thank you for your letter dated March 30, 2009 and attached report regarding Health and Safety Standards. The Township of Southwold will respond in writing within 21 days, to received recommendations regarding Health and Safety issues as per the legislation. Yours truly, %l/f' Donna Ethier CAO/Clerk cc. H&S Committee Staff ~, ~f~ . CLOSED MEETING AGENDA April 14, 2009 Correspondence: 1) Elgin St. Thomas Public Health -Lease re: Municipal Act, Section 240.2 (a) the securify of the property of the municipality or local board (ATTACHED) 2) Staff Direction Regarding aCost-Sharing Arrangement for Tourism Services re: Municipal Act, Section 240.2 (b) personal matters about an identifiable individual (VERBAL)