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December 13 & 15, 2005 ORDERS OF THE DA Y FOR TUESDAY, DECEMBER 13TH, 2005 EVENING - 7:00 P.M. 1 st Call to Order - the Chief Administrative Officer shall preside (Procedural By-Law Section VIII) 2nd Election of Warden (1) Candidates for Warden to Stand (2) Prospective Candidates to Speak (in alphabetical order) (3) Proceed with Election (Ballot or Resolution) 3rd Signing of Declaration of Office and Administration of Oath 4th Gowning 5th Presentation - by Immediate Past Warden, James Mcintyre Chain of Office Lord Elgin Watch Gavel of Office 6th Warden's Address 7th Resolution to Destroy the Ballots (if needed) 8th Committee Appointments - recommendations from incoming Warden 9th Other Business 10th Recess WARDEN'S RECEPTION LOWER LEVEL - COUNTY ADMINISTRA TION BUILDING FOLLOWING ADJOURNMENT ORDERS OF THE DA Y FOR THURSDA v: DECEMBER 15. 2005 - 9:00 A.M. PAGE # ORDER 1 st Meeting Called to Order 2nd Adoption of Minutes - for the meeting of November 22, 2005 3rd Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof 4th Presenting Petitions, Presentations and Delegations DELEGATIONS: 2-4 9:00 a.m. Bob Habkirk & Dr. Tom Lacroix - MedQuest 2006, an initiative to expose local high school students to the world of medicine. (see attachment) 5-8 9:15 a.m. Sally Martyn, Chairman, Communities in Bloom and Brian Chatfield, Co-President, London Cycling Club - inclusion of Bicycle Lane during reconstruction of Highway #4. (see attachment) 9:30 a.m. Joanne Ferguson - regarding Council's Road Widening Policy (see attachment) 9:45 a.m. Jenny Phillips - 2005-2006 Accessibility Plan (see attachment) Motion to Move Into "Committee Of The Whole Council" Reports of Council, Outside Boards and Staff Council Correspondence - see attached 1) Items for Consideration 2) Items for Information (Consent Agenda) OTHER BUSINESS 1) Statementsllnquiries by Members 2) Notice of Motion 3) Matters of Urgency 9th In-Camera Items (see separate agenda) 10th Recess 11 th Motion to Rise and Report 12th Motion to Adopt Recommendations from the Committee Of The Whole 153-157 13th Consideration of By-Laws 14th ADJOURNMENT I LUNCH WILL BE PROVIDED 9 10-28 5th 29-108 6th 7th 109-129 130-152 8th Dates to Remember: January 13, 2006 Draft Budget mailed to Council January 24,2006 9:00 A.M. - County Council Meeting MedQUEST synopsis MedQUEST is a week-long summer camp designed to expose selected Grade 10-11 students from medically underserviced communities to health careers. There is evidence that kids from these communities apply to medical school less than their urban counterparts1. Other programs have shown that a week-long experience at this stage can increase these students' standardized scores on entrance examinations like the MCAT and successfully increase the likelihood of their participants getting into a health care career. However, it is important to temper this enthusiasm. Simply putting students in a volunteer position in a hospital may expose them to specialists rather than family physicians. Unless well designed, these pre-medical school experiences may have the unintentional effect of driving students away from a career in family medicine2. Why Are Long-term Solutions Required? Given the relative undersupply of family physicians graduating from Canadian programs, there is intense pressure on communities looking to recruit family physicians. These communities often look abroad to other provinces or foreign trained physicians. They may become involved in bidding wars in efforts to lure recruits to their community. Unfortunately, this does not serve the best interests of the communities who lose these individuals to headhunters. Some countries, like South Africa, have desperate needs for physicians at home and are trying to convince the Canadian Government to stop the mass exodus of their physicians. Those communities who do not have the ability to fundraise massive amounts are also placed at a disadvantage. Instead, attempting to rectify some of the causes of the maldistribution of physicians seems warranted. Increasing the number of local kids applying for and successfully matriculating into medical school will increase the chances that they will return home. Helping them return to their home communities to continue their training will prevent urbanization during their University life. Improving the prestige and rebalancing the remuneration of family physicians will also help attract physicians-in-training into these rewarding careers. Diagram 1, taken from Benjamin Chan's ICES Report on Supply and Utilization of GP and FP in Ontario (2005) shows the dismal state of affairs in Southwestern Ontario. Kent, Lambton, Essex, Elgin and Oxford are 5 of the 10 counties with the fewest number of family physicians, making it the shortest supplied area in the province. Kent County holds the dubious distinction of being the most underserviced county in Ontario. To successfully tackle this enormous problem, a combination of short, mid and longterm programs is required. 1 References available on request 2 Sottosanti M, Lacroix T. The role of pre-medical school clinical placements on career goals: Be careful what you ask for! AFMC-RCPSC-MCC-CFPC-CAME Medical Education Conference, 2005:Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, oral presentation Diagram 1: supply anll Utlllzatlon Of G&lIlIfSI Prs,:t1t100&f anll fallllly Pl1yslclan S&f\Ile&8 In Ontsrlo Flrnllr.g~E;(1IIb1'.s Exhibit 15. Number of full-time equivalent (FTE) GPIFPs per 10,000 population, by county, in Ontario, 2001i02 coot'd. ~1Hr61G'mf'r'& "",1"0l0_~. by~_y,nmlO! \Orrtoti"'n<:lI.7.0S.~_J <- xt~~ ......... - ............ ~3A).IIIII~~.M" 1.7)ti\)~A< __ t1!;ftl>~....-o '31 t~ l.n- $.$~ t>). f..)o ",~.ft Southern Ontario ~ MedQUEST Policies & Procedures Budget: Over the last 12 months, the MedQUEST organizing team has been involved in intense efforts to try and determine reasonable costs to run this type of program. Through the Saria pilot camp during July 2005, we tried out a variety of teaching aides and models to allow streamlining during the program rollout this year. Furthermore, we surveyed some of the other MedQUEST programs from across the continent to determine if any better models exist or if any lessons could be learned. There will be contributions from both the central camp administration as well as the communities at-large. Start-up Costs: $5150 Mannequins: Disaster kit: Promotional videos: Sports equipment: $3700 $1200 $100 (10 @ $10 ea.) $150 There are initial startup costs that may be incurred in acquiring the materials needed to run a camp like MedQUEST. During the pilot project, some of our startup costs may have been higher than would be expected in your first venture. We did try out several mannequins that may be unnecessary in future camps. Some promotional materials will be covered by the central administration of the program this year. Ongoing Costs: Central administration: Counsellor stipends: Director stipend: Website maintenance: $4000 (covered by the University) * $7800 (covered by the University) * $2400 (covered by the University) * in kind Food: Transportation: Scholarship program: Conference facilities: Stuffed animals: Misc. bandages, etc. $1000 (covered 2 days lunch x 40 students) Variable (pilot camp obtained at no cost through community) $900 $450 $25 $100 *registration/administration fees will be used to defray central costs and provide materials that will be common to all camps (ie: scrubs, lanyards, promotional materials, conference bags, etc.). SWOMEN registration/administration fee to campers is $100 per student. We will be able to support a significant amount of the administrative costs through a centralized application system. At this point, we have secured funding for a MedQUEST Coordinator working at a 0.6 FTE, from a central budget. Presentation to the County Council of Elgin, December 15, 2005 The Communities in Bloom committee of the Municipality of Central Elgin believe that incorporating bicycle paths along the major roadways in Central Elgin is an important recreational and environmental project. When we learned that Highway 4 from St. Thomas to Port Stanley would be undergoing reconstruction in 2006 and 2007, we approached the Central Elgin council at their October 11 th meeting and asked them for their support of incorporating a designated bicycle lane for this highway. At that meeting a motion was passed to asked the county to incorporate a designated bicycle lane on Highway 4 during its reconstruction. This was sent on to Mr. Clayton Watters. Un November 16th, Sally Martyn, co-chair of Communities in Bloom and Ron Richards, Recreation Co-ordinator for Central Elgin, met with Mr. Watters to discuss the plans and how our objective could be met. The following are the reasons we think setting out a designated bicycle lane at this time is important. 1. Safety: Highway 4 is a busy road and bicycles need space to travel safely on this road out of the main driving lanes. Sargent Brian Chatfield of the St. Thomas detachment of the OPP is the current co-chair of the London Cycle Club with his wife. He believes that the safest placement of a bicycle lane is directly beside the driving lane so that vehicular traffic has a clear view of the bicycle traffic. The engineer, Chris Lierman of Spriet and Associates that Mr. Watters consulted said that there would be 3 m of paved shoulder and that the bicycle lane would take 1.8 m ofthis area and simple painting of this lane would add no cost. This lane could still be used for emergency pull offs and bicycles would just have to go around them. 2. Timely and Cost Effective: As you are already reconstructing this road, it is the time to do it and as noted above it would cost no more than the signage needed according to Chris Lierman of Spriet and Associates. Weare not asking for a separated area for a bicycle lane which would add to the costs. 3. Recreation: Bicycle clubs and individuals already bike this road in large numbers and as fuel prices continue to climb, more and more people will be using bicycles. It is a great way to see the county side and get excellent exercise. Getting more exercise especially for young people is very important and needs encouragement. 4. Tourism: Port Stanley is a tourist destination and many come by bicycle including many American biking clubs. This bicycle lane would encourage even more to tour by bicycle. We would also work with the cities of St. Thomas and London to create a bicycle route from London to Port Stanley. 5. Environment: Bicycles are good for the environment. They don't pollute. 6. Public Support: We believe that there is much public support for bicycle lanes and that incorporating them into this reconstruction will bring excellent publicity for the County of Elgin. At the meeting with Mr. Watters, we agreed that the paving already being proposed would be quite adequate to meet our needs. We do not wish to have a separated bicycle lane for safety reasons. It was the form that the signage would take that we have not yet settled on. Following that meeting, I visited the OPP office on John Wise Line and spoke with a Sargent who directed me to Sargent Brian Chatfield who would be on duty the next day. On November 17th, I spoke with Sargent Chatfield and received his full support for the idea. He told me of several areas that have these lanes on highways very similar to Highway 4. I am enclosing a picture of a bicycle lane sent by Sargent Chatfield of a road similar to Highway 4. The picture is of a road and bicycle path at Colbome, near Trenton. He shared his knowledge and experience with me of different types of bicycle lanes and his support ofthe type we proposed as being the safest in his opinion. At a recent workshop in St. Thomas, Go For Green (a national non-profit organization that encourages outdoor physical activity that benefits both the individual and the environment) suggested that St. Thomas and Elgin County needed to work on walking and bicycling trails for healthier living. lory Parent, physical activity promoter for the Elgin-St.Thomas Health Unit agreed to work on a "culture of active transportation for all citizens and visitors" over the next few years. Our proposed bicycle path would help implement this plan. We will also work with London to plan a safe route for cyclists from London to Port Stanley. Mr. Ron Richards has checked with Cowan Insurance and found that signage is the most important aspect for safety especially at all intersections. At our presentation, we will bring two letters of support from the London Cycling Association and the Ontario Cycling Association as well as the Bike Master Plan for London. Thank you for giving Brian Chatfield and myself time to speak to you and hope we can convinced you to incorporate a designated bicycle lane into Highway 4. We will continue to work with Mr. Watters to get the correct signage needed for this endeavour. In the future we are also planning other bicycle paths in Central Elgin. Sally Martyn Co-chair of Communities in Bloom for Central Elgin 3 December 2005 Elgin County Council I was recently contacted by Sally Martyn, of Communities In Bloom - Central Elgin, she advised me that she was interested in seeing the reconstruction of Sunset Rd. (#4 Highway) from St. Thomas to Port Stanley include a marked bicycle lane. Her proposal was of great interest to me for two reasons. First: my wife Karen and I have recently been elected as the co-presidents ofthe London Cycling Club. The London Cycling Club is a bicycling touring club with a membership of 140 avid cyclists. The club cycles from April until the end of October, meeting at the Saturn Playground in London and riding routes with average distances of 60 to 120 kilometres. Our routes are pre-planned and take us out of city traffic to the rural routes surrounding the City of London. We frequently ride in Elgin County, enjoying the scenery and varied terrain. The objectives of the London Cycling Club as set out in our By-Laws are: 1) To conduct, encourage and promote safe cycling and to promote general interest in cycling. 2) To ascertain, defend and pursue the rights of cyclists. 3) To assist the community at large in the promotion, encouragement and understanding of all aspects of cycling and related activities. 4) To carry out its objectives in concert with other organizations of cyclists throughout the world. We are always pleased to hear of plans that look to improve the safety of cyclists and encourage cycling as a means to a healthier lifestyle and non-polluting means of transportation. On the 25th of April 2005, our past President Mr. Tom Jolliffe, sent a letter to Brian Turcotte the Senior Planner for The City of London. In his letter Mr. Jolliffe was offering his comments, as President of The London Cycling Club, on the City of London's proposed Bicycle Master Plan. Mr. Jolliffe stated: "While cycling contributes to a healthier lifestyle and positively promotes a sustained environment, I cannot over- emphasize the cyclist's desire to arrive alive."m____ ....._m_ ...__.m__mm_mm______ m____ In order to afford cyclists the safest cycling environment, my wife and I, on behalf of The London Cycling Club encourage the consideration of the establishment of, marked and delineated on-road bicycle lanes during any reconstruction of roadways within the Province. The second reason for my interest in Sally Martyn's proposal is because I live in St. Thomas and had the flames of my interest in cycling fanned while riding Sunset Road from St. Thomas to Port Stanley. I am employed in a high stress profession and nine years. ago I came to the realization that my sedentary life style and aging was causing deterioration in my level of fitness. I will never be a runner and shift work made attendance at gyms difficult. I wasn't a very experienced cyclist but I purchased a used mountain bike and looked for a safe route for a novice cyclist. The route I picked was Sunset Road from St. Thomas to Port Stanley. In the past nine years I have ridden thousands of kilometres and have found few roads that provide a novice cyclist with the safety, diversity and pleasurable riding experience of Sunset Road. The volume of cyclists travelling on Sunset Road is evidence that many residents of Elgin County are experiencing the pleasures of cycling this road. The inclusion of a marked and delineated lane during the re-construction of Sunset Road will clearly indicate your support of cycling in Elgin County and make one of Elgin County's most cycled roads safer and even more cyclist friendly. Brian Chatfield Co-President London Cycling Club Jeff, John, Colin, Joanne and Joyce Ferguson 43850 Ferguson Line St. ThOD1as~ Ontario N5P 3Tl Phone 631-3463 Fax 631-8843 ';'~..""...'I.. 'il'f' E"..i"lf :"l ..-,f .r.;,2~l.:? W 'f;:" DEe - 6 ZG35 December 6, 2005 t"'f.'t,l i\W~ t~$\lo:,./l'~;,.1;l\;i ~- Warden and Members of Elgin County Council In Care of Sandra RefIren, Deputy Clerk To Who It May Concern: We would like to meet with County Council i.n regards to the road wideni.ng policy on Highbury Avenue. In order to proceed with our severance applicatiollt we would like to meet with Elgin County Council as soon as possible. It has come to our attention recently. due to a severance application that the County has a policy to purchase 10 feet of land along Highbury in order to have the severance application go through. The property for the severance fronts on Truman Line (91.1 # 43862). and the property to the west of this on Truman r;,ine. We were not aware of this policy on Higbbury Avenue or the fact that the road was going to be widened in the near future. In discussing this issue with various people in the last week or so, it seems that Highbury will not be widened or changed for many years. Weare concerned with the facts that the road widening will not take place soon and that the value that the County is offering for the property is not near enough for today's market value. In conclusion we are not at all interested in selling this property (being 10 feet), until there is a definitive plan in place for Highbury to be widened to 4 lanes. We are asking County Council to review this policy. Best Regards, . fI19O/LNV-~~~ 4e Fergusoo Signing for Jeff. John, Colin and Joyce Ferguson "[:/[:'d "[:992.. ~~9 6"[:S:0l ~b88"[:~96"[:S 'SO~8 Nosn~~3~ :wo~~ 2S:"[:"[: S002-90-J30 JOINT ELGIN/CENTRAL ELGIN 2005-2006 ANNUAL MUNICIPAL ACCESSIBILITY PLAN November 16,2005 INDEX JOINT ELGIN/CENTRAL ELGIN MUNICIPAL ACCESSIBILITY PLAN (JAAC) SECTION PAGE NO. Objectives Municipal Highlights, Population and Organizational Structure County of Elgin Municipality of Central Elgin Establishment of Accessibility Working Group 1 1 2 2 Executive Summary Mission Statement Aim Co-Ordinators 2 2 3 3 3 Members ofJAAC County of Elgin/Municipality of Central Elgin Commitment to Accessibility Planning 4 Achievements from 2004-2005 4 Response to a Complaint - County of Elgin Telephone System 5 Barrier Identification Methodologies 5 Barriers Identified and Status of Elimination 6 Focus for 2006 13 Review and Monitoring Process 13 Communication of the Plan 13 Recommendations 13 Signature Page 14 Appendix "A" - County of Elgin 2005 Summary of Barriers Addressed 15 Appendix "B" - Municipality of Central Elgin 2005 Summary of Barriers Addressed 17 JOINT ELGIN/CENTRAL ELGIN ANNUAL MUNICIPAL ACCESSIBILITY PLAN 2005-2006 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The purpose of the Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2001 (ODA) is to improve opportunities for persons with disabilities and to provide for their involvement in the identification, removal and prevention of barriers to their full participation in the life. of the province. To this end, the ODA mandates that each municipality with a population over 10,000 forms a committee to identify accessibility barriers with membership composed of a majority of persons with disabilities and to prepare and publish accessibility plans annually. A new Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA) became effective June 13, 2005. In addition to requirements of the ODA, an Accessibility Standards Advisory Council will be struck to advise the Province on the process for the development of accessibility standards and the progress made by newly-formed Standards Development Committees in developing proposed accessibility standards. Groups of standards will be developed for completion within 1-5 year time frames. Legislation includes that Ontario is to be barrier-free within 20 years. Until standards are in place, the ODA remains in effect as well. This is the third annual plan (2005-2006) prepared by the Elgin/Central Elgin Joint Accessibility Advisory Committee (JAAC). The report describes: (1) the measures/achievements of the County of Elgin and the Municipality of Central Elgin (Elgin/Central Elgin) over the past year, and (2) the measures committed to be taken during the current year (2005-2006), to identify, remove and prevent barriers to persons with disabilities who use the facilities and services of Elgin/ Central Elgin, including employees, volunteers, visitors, and other members of the community. This year, Elgin/Central Elgin committed itself to the continual improvement of access to municipally-owned or leased premises, facilities and services for employees, volunteers, and visitors with disabilities; the participation of persons with disabilities in the development and review of its annual accessibility plan; and the provision of quality services to all members with disabilities within its jurisdictional community. The accessibility working group, in its first annual plan, identified 70 barriers to persons with disabilities. The most significant findings were that Elgin/Central Elgin facilities are not fully wheelchair/mobility/vision/hearing accessible. Over the next several years, budgets need to include funds to eliminate these barriers. For 2006, the JAAC recommends removing 8 barriers in Central Elgin and 16 barriers in the County of Elgin, or as legislated by Provincial standards. MISSION STATEMENT The JAAC adopted the following as its Mission Statement: liTo identify, remove and prevent barriers to persons with disabilities who use the facilities and services of the County of Elgin and the Municipality of Central Elgin, including employees, volunteers, visitors, and all members of our Community." 2 AIM This report describes: (1) the measures that Elgin/Central Elgin have taken in the past, and (2) the recommendations from the JAAC for measures to be undertaken by Elgin/Central Elgin during the year (2005-2006), to identify, remove and prevent barriers to persons with disabilities who use the facilities and services of Elgin/Central Elgin, including employees, volunteers, visitors, and other members of the community. OBJECTIVES This report: 1. Recommends the process by which Elgin/Central Elgin can identify, remove and prevent barriers to persons with disabilities. 2. Reviews earlier efforts to remove and prevent barriers to persons with disabilities. 3. Lists the facilities, policies, programs, practices, and services that JAAC recommends Elgin/Central Elgin to review in the coming year to identify barriers to persons with disabilities. 4. Describes the measures Elgin/Central Elgin should undertake in the coming year to identify, remove and prevent barriers to persons with disabilities. 5. Describes how Elgin/Central Elgin would make this accessibility plan available to the public. MUNICIPAL HIGHLIGHTS. POPULATION AND ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE COUNTY OF ELGIN The County of Elgin is situated along the north shore of Lake Erie and encompasses more than 187,966 Ha. with a population of 45,065 citizens (2003). The County is an "upper tier" municipality, which includes seven constituent "lower-tier" municipalities within the County structure, and one separated City. Each of these has their own separate system of governance. Corporate headquarters is located at the County Administration Building, 450 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas, partway between the City of St. Thomas and the Village of Port Stanley. Areas of jurisdiction under the County corporate structure include responsibility for: County Council directives, by-laws, policies and procedures; County Libraries (11 branches plus 1 main office); design and construction of the County Road System; emergency services (emergency response, policing for 6 municipalities, 9-1-1, land ambulance); protection of County assets and expenditures; operation of 3 Homes for Seniors; Human Resources services to over 300 employees; Ontario Court of JusticelTraffic Ticket Payment Centre; Ontario Works/Social Services (administered through the City of St. Thomas); protection of County forest cover; and severing of land. MUNICIPALITY OF CENTRAL ELGIN The Municipality of Central Elgin is a progressive, dynamic urban and rural municipality, located on the shores of Lake Erie in the heart of southwestern Ontario connected by 370 kms. of municipal roads. The Municipality of Central Elgin encompasses 325 square kms. in area and has a population of 12,360 citizens. 3 The Municipality of Central Elgin is a "lower tier" municipality with its own separate system of governance within the County of Elgin structure. The Administration Office for the Municipality of Central Elgin is located at 450 Sunset Drive, North Wing, S1. Thomas. Areas of jurisdiction under the Municipality of Central Elgin structure include: Council by-laws, policies and procedures; protection of Central Elgin assets and expenditures; Human Resources; Strategic Planning; Building Inspection; By-law Enforcement; Zoning/ Committee of Adjustment; Municipal Roads System; Sanitary Sewer; Storm Sewers and Municipal Drains; Potable Water; Parks and Recreation; and Solid Waste. THE ACCESSIBILITY WORKING GROUP Establishment of the Joint Accessibilitv Advisory Committee In accordance with the ODA legislation, the Councils for the County of Elgin and the Municipality of Central Elgin formed an optional joint accessibility advisory committee in 2002, known as the Elgin/Central Elgin Joint Accessibility Advisory Committee (JAAC). The Committee is comprised of five persons representing all geographic areas of the County of Elgin with the majority of membership being persons with disabilities. The responsibilities of the JAAC are as follows: . Identify barriers to persons with disabilities in all facilities, regulations, policies, programs, practices and services offered by Elgin/Central Elgin. . List facilities, regulations, policies, programs, practices and services that cause or may cause barriers to persons with disabilities. . Identify barriers that are to be removed or prevented in the coming year. . Describe and recommend how these barriers should be removed or prevented in the coming year. . Prepare an annual report on these activities, for approval by the Councils of the County of Elgin and the Municipality of Central Elgin, and make the plan available to the public. . Review building plans and make recommendations on accessibility issues Co-Ordinators The Deputy Clerk positions for the County of Elgin and for the Municipality of Central Elgin were appointed by the respective Councils as the Co-Ordinators of the JAAC to provide administrative support and assistance. Members of the JAAC Elgin/Central Elgin appointed the following members to the JAAC Working Group Municipality/Agency Department Telephone/E-Mail Member Ms. Jenny Phillips Chair JAAC 519 762-2862 tcrier((j)aolden. net Ms. Sylvia Hofhuis Vice-Chair JAAC 519782-3541 representing Elgin and shofhuis13@yahoo.ca Central EIQin Councils 4 Vacant Mem ber JAAC Ms. Becky Marks Member JAAC 519 886-6330 bmarkski n({j)hotm ail. com Ms. Donna Baldwin Member JAAC 519 866-3230 Ms. Dianne Wilson Municipality of Central Administration 519631-4860 Elain dwilson{Q)centralela in .ora Ms. Sandra Heffren County of Elgin Administrative 519631-1460 Services sheffren{Q)elain-cou ntv .on. ca ELGIN/CENTRAL ELGIN COMMITMENT TO ACCESSIBILITY PLANNING The Councils for the County of Elgin and the Municipality of Central Elgin adopted its first Accessibility Plan on September 23, 2003, and has adopted Annual Accessibility Plans each year thereafter, to identify and eliminate accessibility barriers to disabled persons. Elgin/Central Elgin is committed to: . The continual improvement of access to Elgin/Central Elgin premises, facilities, and services for employees, volunteers, visitors, and other members of the community with disabilities. . The participation of persons with disabilities in the development and review of its annual accessibility plans. . The provision of quality services to all employees, volunteers, visitors, and other members of the community. The Councils of Elgin/Central Elgin authorized the JAAC to prepare annual accessibility plans that will enable Elgin/Central Elgin to meet these commitments. ACHIEVEMENTS FROM 2004-2005 The JAAC prepared the second Annual Joint Elgin/Central Elgin Municipal Accessibility Plan, which was adopted by both Councils. Awareness and resolution of accessibility barriers has been promoted throughout the various departmental staff with the importance of addressing these barriers emphasized. Departments are budgeting towards elimination of barriers over the next several years. A survey was conducted, through the branch libraries, to gain public input into accessibility barriers located throughout the Elgin/Central Elgin area. The results are being discussed with the County's Director of Library Services. Signage for the main directory board in the County Administration building was investigated for purchase during 2005. All signage purchases were then delayed pending possible criteria recommendations from the newly formed Provincial Standards Development Committees. The JAAC reviewed site plans for Elgin/Central Elgin and made recommendations to improve accessibility to the new or renovated facilities. These recommendations were incorporated into plans for renovations to GT's Restaurant in Port Stanley, the Elgin County Museum on the Administration Building 4th floor, and the Terrace Lodge Secure Area Dining Room. 5 These recommendations included, but were not limited to: . front and rear entrances widened to 3 feet (.91 m) or greater . power assist doors at front and rear entrances or provision for power assist doors . rotational light to activate in conjunction with any fire alarm system required to be installed under applicable Codes . Braille or routed signage at a height of no more than 4 feet (1.22 m) . grab bars located in washrooms . wheelchair ramp to be a least 3 feet (.91 m) unobstructed width between railings with a 5 feet (1.52 m) turning radius on wheelchair ramp . provision of one disabled person parking space with appropriate signage which also notes amount of fine for a parking infraction ($300) . spacing of exhibits in the Elgin County Museum to have a 5 feet (1.52 m) clear turning radius . doors in the Elgin County Museum to remain open or power assist doors to be installed RESPONSE TO A COMPLAINT - COUNTY OF ELGIN TELEPHONE SYSTEM A complaint was received in 2004 regarding low volume/muffled voice on the automated answering for the County of Elgin telephone system. Investigation showed that the hard drive on the system is becoming fatigued and, due to the age of the technology, required upgrading or replacement. Elgin County Council included funds in its 2005 Capital Projects Budget for replacement of the telephone system. A Request for Proposals has been issued and a new telephone system will be installed by the end of 2006. BARRIER IDENTIFICATION METHODOLOGIES The Working Group used three barrier identification methodologies: Methodology Description Status The JAAC working group wrote a letter to Letters were sent to 8 agencies. One responded with various service agencies throughout the County describing the JAAC mandate, no concerns. No agencies Letter to accepted the offer to attend a service requesting input on accessibility barriers in meeting. Letters would again agencies Elgin/Central Elgin facilities and services and be sent with a response ideas to remove them. The agencies were deadline of November 15, also requested to attend a meeting to discuss 2004. No expressions of any concerns. interest were received. Brainstorming The Working Group used materials from the Exercises done at meetings on September 28th and November exercise Accessibility Directorate of Ontario. 2nd, 2005. Staff inspected various premises and Staff reviewed identified accessibility barriers. A letter was Surveys posted in local accessibility forwarded to local libraries for posting on libraries were returned on barriers in all bulletin boards requesting the public to voice February 28, 2005 and will be facilities concerns about barriers in County and Central addressed shortly. Elgin facilities, services, and policies, and ways to remove them. 6 BARRIERS IDENTIFIED The JAAC identified 70 barriers in 2003. The Councils of Elgin and Central Elgin adopted the recommendations of the JAAC to begin eliminating these barriers. As well, when new or renewal Leases are discussed, (e.g. Libraries and vehicles) consideration would be given to eliminate accessibility barriers as previously identified. The Barriers were prioritized into categories as follows: #1 - High Importance - measures to be undertaken to address the barrier as soon as possible #2 - Medium Importance - measures to be undertaken to address the barrier within the next five years #3 - Low Importance - measures to be undertaken to address the barrier when renovations occur. ATTITUDINAL BARRIERS CATEGORY BARRIER AND RESOLUTION STATUS STATUS ELGIN COUNTY CENTRAL ELGIN 1 Attitudes towards persons with Training was Training was disabilities requires education and in conducted in May conducted in May service sessions to train employees and June 2005 and June 2005 how to recognize disabilities and appropriately deal with residents, co-workers and the public INFORMA TION/COMMUNICA TION BARRIERS CATEGORY BARRIER AND RESOLUTION STATUS STATUS ELGIN COUNTY CENTRAL ELGIN 1 Signage throughout all buildings to Planned but delayed Planned but be in Braille or raised letters no - all of Admin. Bldg., delayed - Belmont higher than 4 feet (1.22 m) from the Bobier Villa, County Arena new floor, and placed in standardized Garage, Libraries. addition. Other location Health Unit front areas/buildings - door, emergency delayed Note: Acquisition of signage was signage, and delayed pending possible criteria for washrooms. Other lettering etc. from the new Provincial areas/buildings - standards committees delaved 1 Elevator floor buttons and selection Temporary Braille Temporary Braille panel to include Braille and be signage installed in signage installed positioned no higher than 4 feet Admin. Bldg. in Port Stanley (1.22 m) from the floor. Emergency elevators; Health Arena. Other telephone to be positioned no higher Unit ground floor areas/buildings than 4 feet (1.22 m) from the floor. signage lowered. ongoing Planned 2006 - Terrace Lodge elevators and panels to be redesigned. Other areas/ buildinQs onaoina 7 1 Voice or chime enunciators for floor Planned 2010 - Ongoing positions to be installed in elevators Admin. Bldg. Other areas/buildings onQoinQ 1 Investigate acquiring TTY device at Cost is $400-$500 Cost is $400-$500 main reception front service counter 1 Create website version for persons Under discussion Under discussion with visual loss 1 Re-mark suitably sized disabled Health Unit installed Ongoing parking spaces and install signage redesigned ramp from parking lot - 2006 - signage to be installed, worded to include fine amount. Other areas/ buildinas onaoina 2 Fire pull station and extinguishers to Planned 2008 -Eng. Under discussion be lowered to no higher than 4 feet Serv., Main Library, (1.22 m) from floor IT. Other areas/ buildinQs onQoinQ 2 Investigate computers to 2006 - Libraries n/a communicate with persons with investigating. Other hearing/visual loss particularly at areas/buildings Libraries onQoinQ 2 PC's for public use to be compatible Investigation in 2006 Investigation in for Braille translation software. to determine 2006 to determine Purchase screen readers (e.g. Job services/equipment services/equipment Access With Screen Reading). available available Purchase Braille software and keyboard (e.g. Dragon Dictate) that a person uses to dictate information and it writes it down. Install Braille embosser that is used like a printer. Install soundtrack on narrative 2 Human Resources and Health & Ongoing - some Ongoing - is Safety reading material to be in available in large available in large multi-formats print font POLICIES AND PRACTICES BARRIERS CATEGORY BARRIER AND RESOLUTION STATUS STATUS ELGIN COUNTY CENTRAL ELGIN 1 Hiring policies to include text that Com plete Complete hiring is by equal opportunity based on non-discrimination of the Human RiQhts Code 1 Hiring and interviewing policies to Planned for 2006 Planned for 2006 include accommodation procedures for persons with disabilities 8 2 All policies, warnings, notices, and Policy Manual is Ongoing other reading material to be available in large available in multi-formats print. Other formats will be provided over the next few years PHYSICAL/ARCHITECTURAL BARRIERS CATEGORY BARRIER AND RESOLUTION STATUS STATUS ELGIN COUNTY CENTRAL ELGIN General 1 When new or renewal Leases are Ongoing Ongoing discussed, consideration to be given to barriers identified throughout Plan 1 All interior exit doors require panic Planned 2006 - Belmont Arena bars Health Unit. Other new addition areas/buildings complete. Other ongoing areas/buildings onaoina 1 Library book trucks (dollies) require Ongoing n/a wheels that soin freely 1 Investigate book drop off zones for Planned 2006 n/a libraries 1 Lower shelves in libraries or ask for Ongoing n/a staff assistance in interim 1 Portion of bars/rods in coat closets Planned 2006 - Belmont Arena and hooks in lockers to be lowered Admin. Bldg., new addition under County Garage. discussion. Other Other areas/ areas/buildings buildinas onaoina onaoina 1 Vertical difference in elevation not to Ongoing Ongoing exceed 12mm (sidewalks) 1 Require extenders on fans and mini Ongoing Ongoing blinds to allow for adjusting 1 Dining tables in Homes for Seniors Com plete n/a to be wheelchair/aeri-chair height 1 Chairs in Homes for Seniors require Complete n/a arms to assist Seniors in standing 1 Disabled parking space( s) to be Ongoing Ongoing identified, signed and promoted for buildinas, shoooina, beach areas 1 Provision of accessible viewing area n/a Viewing area is at Port Stanley Arena available. 2006- enquiry signage to be installed at entrance; a sign on viewing area glass to indicate special needs patrons have viewing priority to be investigated 9 2 Install power door operators on Planned 2008 - Exterior doors on exterior main entrance doors Bobier Villa smoke Belmont Arena room and server new addition room doors, Terrace complete. Lodge smoke room. Planned 2006 - 2010 - County Belmont Library. Garage. Other Other areas/ areas/buildings buildings ongoing ongoina 2 Power door operator control button Under discussion Under discussion to be located 3-4 feet (.91-1.22 m) from doorway to allow for openina 2 All access ramps and washrooms to Ongoing Belmont Arena have minimum turnaround radius of new addition 5 feet (1.52 m) complete. Other areas/buildings onaoina 2 All access ramps to be minimum Planned 2020 - Ongoing unobstructed width of 3 feet (.91 m) Admin. Bldg. Other inside railings areas/buildings onaoina 2 All door widths to be minimum of 3 Ambulance Belmont Arena feet (.91 m) buildings; Admin. new addition Bldg. computer lab complete. Other door com plete. areas/buildings Other areas/ ongoing buildinas onaoina 2 All turn-type knobs to be replaced Admin. Bldg. IT lab Belmont Arena with lever style door; 3 tenant areas new addition replaced; Bobier complete. Other Villa installed toggle areas/buildings switch on front lobby ongoing fireplace; Health Unit replaced several, more planned for 2006. Planned 2007 - Prosecutor Office. Other areas/ buildinas onaoina 2 Lower section of concession n/a Ongoing counters 2 Paths to be constructed to provide n/a Research in 2006 access to plavarounds/sports fields 2 Playground equipment to be barrier n/a Research in 2006 free or add on barrier free section 2 Medication/treatment carts require Keypad locks n/a keypad lock and be height complete. Unaware adjustable of height-adjustable carts 10 3 Mailroom in Administration Building Planned 2006 Ongoing to be rebuilt. Mailroom in Central Elgin to be redesiQned 3 Installation of non-glare/indirect Ongoing Ongoing lighting in offices and work stations 3 Workstations to be adjustable BeinQ tested BeinQ tested 3 Curb cuts and sidewalk ramps to be Concrete ram p to 85% of existing included in new construction and gazebo installed at curbs and others to be retrofitted Bobier Villa with sidewalk ramps accessible sidewalk. have been Other areas are retrofitted: Other done during new areas done during construction new construction 3 Water coolers to be barrier free Health Unit water Ongoing fountain replaced with water cooler. Other areas/ buildinQs onaoina 3 Lifts and/or elevators to other floors Ongoing Ongoing or basements to be installed if necessary 3 Provide accessible scooter/storage Ongoing Ongoing locations in Senior Homes and non- profit housing 3 All thresholds to be level with Planned 2007 - Ongoing flooring or entrances Eng. Serv.; Bobier Villa; 2010 - County Garage. Other areas/buildings onQoing 3 All light switches to be lowered to no Ongoing Belmont Arena higher than 4 feet (1.22 m) from the new addition has floor motion sensors. Other areas/ buildinas ongoing 3 Storage of parts and chem icals to Planned 2006/07 Ongoing be moved to an accessible area 3 Should an employee with physical Ongoing Ongoing limitations require the use of a leased vehicle to perform duties, an accessible vehicle will be leased 3 Hair salons in Homes for Seniors Wall-mounted hair n/a require adjustable sinks and dryers dryer with flexible arm installed at Elgin Manor. Other areas ongoina 3 Power control panels to be lowered Ongoing Ongoing (access to fuses/breakers) 11 Kitchens 2 Lower section of counter, provide Planned 2012 - Planned 2006 - accessible sink and cupboard area, Main Library. Other Belmont Arena and sufficient space for wheelchair areas/buildings new addition. access in kitchens available for ongoing Other areas/ public or emplovee use buildinqs ongoing 3 Microwaves to be at an accessible Main Library Planned 2006 - height and placement complete. Other Belmont Arena areas/buildings Other areas/ onqoinq buildinas onqoinq Office Ergonomics 1 Office furniture to be repositioned to Eng. Serv., IT area, Ongoing allow clear access Library Services' offices complete; 2010 - Archivist. Other areas/ buildinqs onqoinq 2 Equipment stands (fax, printers, Planned 2006 - Ongoing etc.) to be at accessible height or be Libraries. Other adjustable areas/buildings by 2012. 2 Reception desks to have lower Installed at Bayham, Complete section or be adjustable Belmont, Dutton/ Dunwich, Port Burwell, Port Stanley Libraries. Planned 2007 - Admin. Servo Other areas/buildings ongoing 2 Mailing machines to be at Complete for Admin. Ongoing accessible height or be adjustable Bldg. Other areas/ buildinqs onqoinq 3 Replacement desks to be adjustable Elgin Manor - desk Ongoing and with rounded corners in Residents' Council office installed to provide for various seating types - one set of office furniture planned for 2006. Other areas onqoinq 3 Computer workstations - desks and Completed at Ongoing chairs to be adjustable Belmont, Dutton/Dunwich, Port Burwell, Port Stanley Libraries. Other Libraries and buildinqs ongoina 12 3 Photocopiers to have controls at Upon new purchase Upon new accessible heiaht purchase 3 Filing cabinets to be no higher than Elgin Manor Ongoing 4 drawers or purchase revolving purchased one 3- side file cabinets drawer cabinet. Cabinets are 4- drawer or lower in all areas 3 Lower bookshelves and Com pleted at Port Ongoing inform ational. material Burwell Library. Planned 2006-2007 - Libraries, County Garage. Other areas/buildings onQoinQ 3 Grates in floor to be level with Ongoing Ongoing floorina material 3 Lower control buttons for garage Ongoing Ongoing doors and wash bay Washrooms 2 Provide barrier free washroom Planned 2007 - Belmont Arena facilities as per the Ontario Building Warden's Office. new addition Code Other buildings/ complete. Other areas ongoing buildings/areas onaoina 3 Showers require a bench, well- Ongoing Belmont Arena anchored grab bars, and handheld new addition, Port showerheads. All controls to be Stanley Beach within easy reach complete. Other areas/buildings onQoinQ TECHNOLOGICAL BARRIERS CATEGORY BARRIER AND RESOLUTION STATUS STATUS ELGIN COUNTY CENTRAL ELGIN 2 Purchase headsets for computer Planned 2006 - Ongoing access for persons with visual loss Libraries. Other areas/buildings onQoinQ 3 Outfit telephones with volume Upon new purchase Upon new control/rotational light and large purchase keypad 3 Install rotational lighting on fire Ongoing Ongoing alarm systems 3 Relocate or lower heat thermostats Ongoing Ongoing no higher than 4 feet (1.22 m) from the floor 13 FOCUS FOR 2006 By-Laws, Policies, Practices, Services to be Reviewed The JAAC will review various by-laws, policies, practices, and services in 2006 to determine their effect on persons with disabilities as follows: . Planning, building practices, subdivision policies, and development of a criteria list. . Disabled parking spaces in core business areas. . Review of input from public consultation (buildings; policies and services). . eNIS to be invited to a meeting to provide an overview of services/equipment available for persons with visual loss. . Promote public awareness. REVIEW AND MONITORING PROCESS The JAAC will meet monthly to review progress and staff would be reminded, through personal contacts or bye-mail, about their roles in implementing the Plan. The ChairNice-Chair will request to attend a meeting(s) with Senior Management Teams to review the progress of accessibility barrier elimination. COMMUNICATION OF THE PLAN Copies of this plan are to be available at the County of Elgin Administrative Services front counter, Municipality of Central Elgin front counter, County Libraries, local municipal offices, and on the County of Elgin and on the Municipality of Central Elgin websites. On request, the report can be made available on computer disk, or in large print. RECOMMENDATIONS THAT the Elgin/Central Elgin Joint Accessibility Advisory Committee recommends to the Council for the County of Elgin and to the Council for the Municipality of Central Elgin that the following barriers to persons with disabilities be addressed during 2006: 1. Designation of disabled parking spaces in core business areas to be investigated (as recommended in the 2004-2005 Annual Plan). 2. All items identified by departmental staff for barrier elimination in 2006, which are detailed on Pages 6-12, are to be scheduled for completion during 2006, within budgetary limitations, or as legislated by Provincial Standards. Res~:~'~'~!!7-..s. ted /' " // / (.....................-' J~mlY ( //? ( .&<-.....<'! A.~<--/ /-f/ C/L/l. t---1 Becky Marks,Zommittee Member d A~~'~~~ Donn'&-Ba dWln, Committee ember 14 15 APPENDIX "A" COUNTY OF ELGIN 2005 SUMMARY OF ACCESSIBILITY BARRIER ELIMINATION Department/Building Barrier Addressed Joint Elgin/Central Elgin 2 hands-on training workshops were held to provide ability awareness training to staff Human Resources - Policies Hiring policies, job postings and advertisements include "The County of Elgin is an equal opportunity Employer and carries out hiring based on non- discrimination of the Human Rights Code". Human Resources Policy Manual is available in large- print. Buildings Administration Building Braille/Routed directional signage was scheduled for 450 Sunset Drive 2005 but has been delayed pending possible criteria from the newly-formed provincial standards development committees Main computer lab door in IT has been widened and a lever-type opener installed Furniture and desks in IT have been removed/ repositioned to allow for clear access 2 tenant doorways have been widened and lever-type openers installed New tenant area has lever type handles on doorways. Section of reception desk is lower Shelving in Director of Library Services' Office has been lowered Lower vertical file cabinets have been purchased for Director of Library Services' Office Elevators have temporary Braille labelling affixed marking floor positions Health Unit Signage to be in Braille/Routed - Delayed to 2006 Elevator signs indicating ground floor have been lowered to no more than 48" from the floor Several door openers have been replaced with lever type handles 16 Health Unit (contd.) Water fountain replaced with water coolers July/05 Redesigned wheelchair ramp from parking lot to front door was completed Sept/05 Homes: Bobier Villa Concrete ramp to the gazebo has been installed and the sidewalk is wheelchair accessible Toggle-type on/off switch has been installed on the side of the fireplace in theJront lobby for wheelchair accessibility Elgin Manor Wall-mounted hair dryer with adjustable/flexible arm was installed to facilitate any type of seating/ adaptive equipment. Desk in the Residents' Council office was installed to provide clearance (height and width) for different styles of chairs/seating. One 3-d rawer file cabinet was purchased. Libraries: - Bayham Reception counter has been replaced with one that has a section lowered for accessibility. - Belmont Reception counter has been replaced with one that has a section lowered for accessibility. Public access computer desks have been replaced with adjustable workstations for accessibility. - Dutton/Dunwich Public access computer desks have been replaced with adjustable workstations for accessibility. - Port Burwell Reception counter has been replaced with one that has a section lowered for accessibility. Public access computer desks have been replaced with adjustable workstations for accessibility. Old shelving replaced with new narrower shelving, arranged to allow room for wheelchairs to manoeuvre. - Port Stanley Reception counter has been replaced with one that has a section lowered for accessibility. Public access computer desks have been replaced with adjustable workstations for accessibility. Curb Cuts and Sidewalks Avon Drive, Township of Malahide Curb cuts at intersections and sidewalks were constructed for accessibility Nav/OS 17 APPENDIX "B" MUNICIPALITY OF CENTRAL ELGIN 2005 SUMMARY OF ACCESSIBILITY BARRIER ELIMINATION Department/Building Barrier Addressed Joint Elgin/Central Elgin 2 hands-on training workshops were held to provide abilitv awareness trainina to staff Buildings: - Belmont Arena - new addition All door widths are a minimum of 36" Lever style handles are installed throughout Accessible washroom was built Fire pull stations are lower than 48" from floor Lighting is motion sensored Power assist door was installed at entrance 2 disabled parking spaces are marked in parking lot Entrance is flush with the parking lot Barrier-free access was ensured from new addition to older portion - Port Stanley Arena Elevators have temporary Braille labelling affixed marking floor positions Signage installed at entrance door to indicate "Persons reqUiring. assistance please enquire at the office" Curb Cuts and Sidewalks 85% of existing curbs and sidewalk ramps have been retrofitted Nov/05 REPORTS OF COUNCIL AND STAFF December 15. 2005 Staff Reports - (ATTACHED 30 Manager of Road Infrastructure - Request for Dedicated Bicycle Lane - Sunset Road 32 Director of Engineering Services - Land Purchase Practices for County Road Widening 34 Director of Engineering Services - King George IV Lift Bridge - Accounting and Explanation Of Costs 50 Director of Engineering Services - One-Foot Reserve - MacMillan 52 Director of Engineering Services - Ontario Clean Water Agency Operations Agreement for Elgin Manor Wastewater Treatment Plant 54 Director of Engineering Services - Elgin County Museum Construction Tender Recommendation 56 Director of Human Resources - Human Resources Policy Amendments 75 Payroll & Benefits Coordinator - Request for Proposal (RFP) - Benefit Consulting Review 77 Payroll & Benefits Coordinator - Excess Indemnity Renewal 2006, Occupational Accident Insurance 79 Payroll & Benefits Coordinator - 2006 OMERS Contribution Rates 80 Chief Administrative Officer - Corporate Goals 82 Manager of Administrative Services - Schedule of Council Meetings for 2006 84 Director of Financial Services - Budget Comparison - October 31,2005 88 Purchasing Co-Coordinator - Mat Rental Service Agreement for the Elgin County Homes 90 Director of Information Technology - County Phone System 94 Director of Senior Services - Elgin Manor - Influenza Vaccination Promotion in the Homes 96 Director of Senior Services - Terrace Lodge - Ministry of Health Annual Compliance Report- Follow-up Report 97 Director of Senior Services/Manager of Resident Care - Bobier Villa - Ministry of Health Annual Review 98 Director of Senior Services/Manager of Resident Care - Bobier Villa and Director of Senior Services - Elgin Manor - 2005 Vacation Carry Forward Requests 99 Director of Library Services - Reporting to the Public on Service Improvements and Barriers 105 Manager of Archives and Director of Library Services - Elgin County Museum By-Law 106 Manager of Library Services and Director of Library Services - Trillium Foundation and CAP Grants Received in 2005 108 Ambulance & Emergency Management Co-ordinator - Memo re: London Central Ambulance Communications Centre (CACC) Tour Director of Financial Services - Mileage Reimbursement - 2006 Chief Administrative Officer - Annual Staff Appreciation Gift REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Peter Dutchak, Manager of Road Infrastructure DATE: . November 16, 2005 SUBJECT: Request for a Dedicated Bicycle Lane - Sunset Road Introduction The County of Elgin has received the following request by resolution from the Municipality of Central Elgin: "THAT: The Council of the Municipality of Central Elgin request the County of Elgin to include a dedicated bicycle lane on Sunset Road during the road's reconstruction." Discussion As Council is aware, the reconstruction of Sunset Road from Glenwood Drive to Bridge Street is scheduled for 2006 and 2007. Part of this project will include paving the shoulders on this stretch of roadway. Paved shoulders have been included within the project for three (3) main reasons and they are as follows: 1. To eliminate edge of pavement "drop-offs" and reduce shoulder maintenance activities. 2. To allow for "sheet flow drainage" off the roadway and eliminate asphalt swales/gutters and chutes and to reduce erosion. 3. To create a safer environment for other users of Sunset Road (pedestrians and cyclists). The main purpose of road shoulders is to allow for vehicles to pull off the roadway and stop safely. Drivers do this regularly for a number of reasons including but not limited to vehicle problems, to allow emergency vehicles to pass or to answer mobile phones. The Highway Traffic Act defines bicycles as vehicles and they have the same privilege as licensed motorised vehicles to use. Sunset Road. Therefore, no special considerations must be made to allow bicycles to travel on the roadway or use the paved shoulders. If the paved shoulders were referred to as dedicated bicycle lanes, motorised vehicles would have to use these dedicated bicycle lanes when they are required to pull off the roadway. This would cause safety issues as well as expose the County to liability. For this reason, the paved shoulders cannot be formally referred to as dedicated bicycle lanes. Instead of a formal designation, signage will be placed on the roadway to inform motorists not to drive upon the paved shoulders and to warn them of the presence of bicycles that may be also using the roadway. Another option would be to construct a separate bicycle lane adjacent but offset from the roadway a safe distance. This option would require the road platform to be expanded at an estimated cost of approximately $1 Million dollars and therefore, this option is not considered. Conclusion A request has been received from the Municipality of Central Elgin, requesting that the County include a dedicated bicycle lane as part of the Sunset Road Reconstruction Project. The road shoulders will be paved, as part of this project however cannot be formally referred to as bicycle lanes because they serve other purposes as well. Signage will be placed on the roadway to prohibit motorists from driving upon the paved shoulders and warning them of the potential presence of cyclists. Recommendation THAT staff install signage on Sunset Road, once reconstructed, to prohibit motorists from driving upon the paved shoulders and to warn them of the potential presence of cyclists. RESPECTFULL Y SUBMITTED PIT~ -MANAGER OF ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE APPROVED FOR SUBMISSION (JOl}1~ CLAYTON WATTERS DIRECTOR OF ENG ING MARK CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Clayton Watters, Director, Engineering Services DATE: December 7, 2005 SUBJECT: L,.and Purchase Practices for County Road Widening Introduction: The County purchases land adjacent to County roads to obtain sufficient right of way widths to accommodate our transportation and infrastructure needs. When lands are severed adjacent to County roads, staff utilises the opportunity to request lands be purchased for road widening within the severance's conditions. The County has been acquiring land in this fashion for over 30 years. Staff has prepared this report in response to a letter received from a landowner and to inform Council of current practices regarding land purchase for road widening. Discussion I Conclusion: Historically, roads were established at 66 feet wide (or the historical surveying unit of one chain wide). A 66 foot wide right of way served its purpose 100 years ago, however, it is not sufficient for today's 2 lane County road dimensions, therefore, additional lands are purchased to create a 100 foot right of way (17 feet on either side). Most County Roads are 100 feet wide. If a roadway is identified as being required to be increased to 4 lanes, a 120 foot Right of Way is obtained when the County has an opportunity to do so through the severance process. At this time, 120 foot right of ways are being actively purchased on Wellington Road (County Road #25) and Highbury Avenue (County Road #30). These two roads are the County's busiest and will be the first County Roads to become 4 lane roadways in the future. Many of the transferred Provincial Highways have a 120 foot Right of Way. In order to remain fair and consistent when purchasing lands for road widening, the County uses appraisal values for different land types within each municipality. These rates are updated periodically to remain current. The County also assumes all legal and surveying costs, which are typically higher than the value of the land itself. The County does retain the right to simply acquire the lands required for road widening as part of the planning process at the developer's expense, however, that has not been our practice. In most cases, after road widening is purchased, these lands physically do not change in appearance for many years until they are required. In recent years road right of ways have become very valuable in providing corridors for utilities such as: natural gas, telecommunications, municipal services and hydro pole lines as our rural communities become developed. Recommendation: For Council's information. Respectfully Submitted (Jf}W~ Clayton Watters Director, Engineering Services :EJon Chief Administrative Officer REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Clayton Watters, Director Engineering Services DATE: November 1, 2005 SUBJECT: King George IV Lift Bridge - Accounting and Explanation of Costs INTRODUCTION The King George Lift Bridge in Port Stanley has recently received a major electrical upgrade with minor mechanical refurbishments. This project proactively addresses operational risks and safety concerns. A report was presented to the County Council on June 14, 2005 that outlined the project schedule and costs. Representatives from Byrne Engineering Incorporated (BEl) discussed the project and costs. BEl was directed to present a full accounting and explanation of costs for County Council's consideration. Included in this report is the executive summary from Byrne Engineering Incorporated that describes the rationale for the over expenditures. DISCUSSION: The County assumed ownership of the King George Lift Bridge in Port Stanley in May 2001 from the Municipality of Central Elgin. Since then the County of Elgin has replaced the sidewalk grating and recently completed a major overhaul of the electrical system and controls. In the fall of 2004 the project described above was estimated at $440,000 which included the construction and engineering. In March 2005, staff received an update that the original cost estimate should be increased by $50,000 to $490,000. This estimate included $25,000 for contingencies. At the June 14, 2005 County Council meeting staff estimated the project completion cost at almost $710,000. This cost includes construction, engineering and the goods and services taxes. As of October 31, 2005 the cost is $625,731 and BEl have estimated the total cost at $690,000 once the contractor holdback and contract administration costs are added. In 2006 staff is proposing to complete some additional minor repairs. These costs will be identified in the 2006 Capital Budget for Council's consideration. The executive summary outlines in greater detail the two main components that increased the costs to the King George IV lift Bridge contract. The first component that added a significant increase to the costs was the "programmable logic controller" and the manufacturer's software. This added $82,000 in engineering costs along with a corresponding increase in the contractor's costs. (Byrne has written the company that supplied the controller to seek compensation). The second component was the additional work items that were not included in the original contract. The contract included only $55,000 for contingencies, which has now increased to $100,000. The additional work items are: repairs to roadway lighting pole concrete bases, hatch replacement, upgrading navigational lighting fixtures, machinery brakes at both leaf drive systems, leaf lock nose repairs and sidewalk repairs. CONCLUSION: The King George Lift Bridge capital project has had an unexpected increase in costs and the completion date was extended due to unforeseen delays. A review by the consulting engineer has confirmed that the County of Elgin did receive value for the service provided. The expenditures in excess of the approved allocation would be funded from the Bridge Reserve. RECOMMENDATION: For County Council's information. Respectfully Submitted WNo- ~ ". n Clayton D. Watters Director of Engineering Services Mar cDonald Chief Administrative Officer REPORT TO COUNCIL COSTS AND DELAYS DURING ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL UPGRADES TO THE KING GEORGE LIFT BRIDGE, PORT STANLEY prepared for The Corporation of the County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive, 18t Floor St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 5V1 by ~ B%fne Engineering Ine. Structural. Mechanical. Electrkal 200- 3050 Harvester Road Burlington, Ontario L 7N 3J1 Byrne Ref. 204094 September 2005 TABLE OF CONTENTS Page EXECUTIVE SUMMARy................... .............................. ............................ ......... ...... ..... 1 OVERVIEW System Com pi exity ............ .............. ........ .......................................... .......... ........... 2 Control System Design ............... ... ....... ........................................... ....................... 3 Other Commissioning Problems ........................................................................... 5 Reliability......... ........... ................ ............................................................................ 6 COST ITEMS ..................... ............................................................................ ..................... 7 CO MPLE TI 0 N DELAYS .............. ....... ... ...................... ...... ...................... ............ ...........10 SUMMARY AND CON CL USI 0 NS .................................................................................11 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY During the winter period of 2004/2005 electrical controls and various mechanical components of the King George Bridge (KGB) were upgraded. The work was carried out by Comstock International based on designs prepared by Byrne Engineering Inc. In order to control all of the bridge's functions in accordance with operating commands from the bridge operator, a "programmable logic controller" (PLC) is used. The PLC requires custom programming to suit the details of the control system design. It is necessary that the programming was prepared at Byrne's offices, in isolation from the actual hardware that is intended to control the bridge, so that it will be teady when construction is completed. The final stage in the process of a controls upgrade, such as the one carried out at the KGB, is the commissioning of the custom designed PLC control software. Therefore, the first time that the PLC actually controls the bridge hardware is at end of the project, during the software commissioning period after all of the hardware installations are complete. As with all software, bugs are expected and inevitable. Their elimination is in fact, the focus of the software commissioning function. In order to effectively debug the programming, all other sources of problems, including wiring errors and incorrect installation must be eliminated as effectively as possible. Normally the PLC itself and the manufacturer's software used to carry out the custom programming are "tried-and-true" and are expected to be 100% correct and operational. In this project, this proved not to be the case, and in retrospect, many of the problems encountered during commissioning appear to have been a direct result of either a faulty PLC and/or the manufacturer's programming software. The commissioning effort was therefore greatly complicated. As a result of these problems and others discussed in the body of the report, the commissioning cost increased by approximately $80,000 for engineering, along with a corresponding increase in cost of approximately $50,000 for the contractor's personnel as they were a necessary part ofthe process of identifying and eliminating the problems one by one as they were encountered. This work resulted in an extraordinary completion delay of approximately two months. In addition to the unexpected costs associated with problems during commissioning, Byrne also carried out additional work as requested by Elgin. The additional work items were mainly as a result of concerns and desired improvements in items and systems not associated with the original scope of Byrne's work. These items added approximately $90,000 to the overall cost of the project for construction and associated engineering costs of approximately $20,000. This additional work was not associated- with commissioning problems but rather, addressed other concerns with the bridge. Since the contractor was on site and mobilized, it appeared to be an opportune time to have the work carried out. It is Byrne's opinion that, despite the additional costs and completion delays, The County of Elgin taxpayers have received value for money spent. However, the costs and difficulties to achieve the end result were significantly greater than Byrne could have anticipated in advance despite our past experience in carrying out similar projects. 1 OVERVIEW System Complexity Despite appearances, all movable bridges, especially one like the King George Bridge (KGB) in Port Stanley, are complex and sophisticated systems. Partly due to their size, the need for reliable operation and the necessity for safe operation, the control system of a bridge like KGB must be designed to take into account many different operating conditions and failure modes. In our experience, many movable bridge control system designs do not properly take into consideration failures and their consequences. These bridges may operate properly in the absence of failures but will fail to operate, or operate in an unsafe manner, when a failure occurs. The design of the KGB provided by Byrne is such that the control system equipment located on each side of the waterway operates as a stand-alone system, controlling all of the equipment on its side of the waterway. This equipment consists of traffic lighting, traffic gates, leaf nose locks, leaf service and motor brakes, the variable speed leaf motor drive, and all other associated monitoring and control equipment. An additional level of complexity arises from the fact that the independent control systems on the two sides of the waterway need to coordinate all of their actions for the overall bridge to operate effectively as a single system. All of the independent operational, monitoring and safety systems on the two sides need to be integrated into a single "bridge control system" to permit safe and simple operation of the overall bridge. Byrne maintained the original design philosophy permitting an operator to control the entire bridge from the west side, in addition to the normal control location on the east side. There is no question that the present system is far more reliable in this respect than the original design. This feature however, added significantly to the sophistication of the required controls. As a final addition to the complexity of the system, Byrne added the functionality to allow both sides to be operated completely independently of each other. It was felt that this would allow recovery from failures that would have prevented roadway or marine traffic in the old design under failure conditions. The new control system is designed to permit recovery from most foreseeable failure conditions. All of the above is in addition to Byrne's proprietary standard movable bridge design methodologies that, while increasing complexity of software controls and adding some additional monitoring hardware, significantly increases the overall reliability of bridge operation. Byrne's standard design features permit continued operation in conditions where, with more conventional designs, bridge operation would be prevented until repairs have been made. This methodology allows continued full and normal operation of the bridge after the occurrence of most sensing failures, allowing the failed item to be repaired before a second failure occurs. . 2 Control System Design Control and automation of a bridge is a task similar to building a prototype industrial machine. Generally the prototype machine built is an initial "best attempt" and is intended to be used for test & debugging purposes only. During testing, whenever unexpected issues arise in the prototype machine, the design of hardware and/or controlling software is modified to suit and testing continues until other "design bugs" arise. Eventually after most of the bugs are worked out, the design is finalized and other identical machines are built. Since all movable bridge designs are different, and there is generally only one of each, the above process cannot be followed with movable bridges. Much more care must be taken in the design to account for possible problem areas. This makes the design of movable bridge mechanical and electrical systems, particularly retrofits and upgrades, time intensive and expensive. Byrne has extensive experience in the design of movable bridges and is well aware of the problems associated with "one-off' designs. In most cases, this experience allows Byrne to anticipate and accommodate most potential problem areas in the design. However, in every bridge project, some situations arise that are unexpected and could not have been realistically anticipated. For the most part, these issues simply need to be resolved when they occur during commissioning. In general, a control system replacement design such as KGB, hardware issues can occur for various reasons. With an existing bridge, much of the installation remains from the original and/or previous modifications. This hardware will have undergone some deterioration since the installation. Despite the fact that the bridge may have been operating "correctly" prior to modifications, some pre-existing problems may be "masked" and become apparent only after the revisions. With the Port Stanley Bridge, there were significantly more issues during the commissioning phase than normal. In addition, the nature of some of the major problems was different than seen in the past. Some of these issues resulted in significant expenditures of time and effort to resolve. When an operating problem occurs during commissioning of a movable bridge, first the cause of the problem needs to be determined. Then a method of eliminating the problem needs to be found. Finally a change needs to be made, often involving both hardware and software modifications. The direct cause of a problem involving a combination of existing and new hardware, and control software, is seldom obvious. It could be a result of faulty programming logic (the most likely at the start of testing of software that is controlling the actual hardware for the first time). Otherwise, it could be caused by faulty existing hardware (the next most likely), incorrect installation of new hardware, a faulty design assumption regarding existing or new hardware, or, least likely, it may be caused by faulty new hardware. When problems were encountered in the commissioning of the Port Stanley Bridge, the most likely causes were considered first. In this project however, it was found that in many cases, the least likely cause was frequently the actual cause of the problems. As a result, troubleshooting took much longer than might be reasonably expected in many cases. In hindsight, it appears the PLC hardware and/or the manufacturer's programming software was the cause of many, seemingly unrelated, problems. In a significant number of cases, the problem ended up being attributed by us to malfunctioning PLC hardware and/or software only after all other 3 possible causes were systematically eliminated. The exact cause of some of the problems was never definitively determined despite approximately 10 hours spent on the telephone at site with the PLC manufacturer's "paid for" expert field problem solving tech support personnel in dealing with the various symptoms. These contacts with tech support occurred on a number of occasions for a number of apparently unrelated issues. After many attempts at solving the problems in various ways, we were eventually advised by the manufacturer's tech support personnel that the PLC hardware must be defective and should be replaced. This is apparently such a rare event that the PLC manufacturer, Rockwell, now denies that it is possible. However, since the time that both PLCs were removed for examination, then swapped between the east and west control systems, and finally replaced with new equipment, the majority of the problems previously encountered then disappeared. All software contains "bugs", particularly when it is first run. This is the case when PLC programming is first installed in a bridge control PLC and controls the actual bridge hardware for the first time. The process of software commissioning is a normal and necessary function aimed at discovering and correcting these bugs. The PLC programming prepared by Byrne was therefore originally suspected as the root cause of many of the problems encountered during commissioning but, in retrospect, the programming was proven to be largely correct. In addition, after very close examination by us, at the time that the problems occurred and afterwards, there is simply no other explanation for many of the problems, other than a combination of faulty hardware and/or faulty programming software (the manufacturer's software that was used by Byrne to prepare the actual PLC programming that controls bridge functions). In short, PLC problems accounted for a very significant portion of the lost time and effort in commissioning this bridge despite Byrne's best efforts, and preparation of correct and reliable PLC programming. 4 Other Commissioning Problems In addition to the PLC problems, a number of other problems occurred that had to be resolved 'one at a time' as they were encountered. At the start of an automation project and based on previous experience with other movable bridge control system refurbishment projects, Byrne always tries to understand the existing equipment and issues that may affect operation, generally with significant success. In this project however, bridge age and equipment condition was much more of a factor than expected. A number of unanticipated issues arose during commissioning. Several of these are summarized below. Both bridge leafs are supported on trunnion bearings located at the north and south sides of the leaf at both the east and west concrete abutments. These bearings allow rotation of the leaf at the support point to permit the leaf "nose" to be raised. When they are operating correctly, these bearings should allow little or no axial (side to side) motion of the leaf. Despite lack of obvious physical symptoms, the KGB trunnion bearings were found to allow significant axial motion of the leaf. The unexpected motion of the leaf support trunnion bearings made redesign and relocation of leaf position sensing switches necessary. This resulted in the loss of several days of commissioning time and resulted in additional cost for the necessary rework. The condition of the trunnion bearings that allows axial motion of the leaf is not of immediate concern with the revised design but will require ongoing monitoring, and will likely eventually require replacement of the bearings. This will be an expensive undertaking and should be budgeted for in advance of its requirement. Faulty limit switches in the traffic gates and an unusual design of gate actuating hardware caused a number of problems and necessitated the replacement of the switches and additional lost time. Due to the sluggish response of the gate arm position switches, the raised and lowered positions of the gates were frequently not detected reliably by the PLC. A contributing and confounding factor in this problem appears, in retrospect, to have been the aberrant operation of the PLC hardware and/or software. Given the problems with these switches, it is not clear how the gates could have operated reliably in previous years. This may however have been an ongoing problem when operation first started after the gates had sat inactive over the winter, and may have ceased being a problem after the switches had again "worked in" after a period of use. Leaf balance was also determined to be a contributing factor in some of the problems encountered. It was found that the east leaf is significantly tail heavy and the west leaf is significantly nose heavy. While bridge leafs normally require occasional rebalancing for optimal performance, we are advised that the KGB leafs have not been rebalanced in recent memory, In one case, after commissioning was felt to be partially complete, the east leaf imbalance caused it to continue to move with the motor turned off resulting in a situation where the controls delayed applying leaf brakes. This situation therefore allowed the leaf to drift by gravity to its fully open position where it came to a gentle stop against the physical stop provided for this purpose in the tail pit. 5 Since the brakes are designed primarily for the holding function, it is normal practice not to apply leaf brakes when the leaf is moving above a threshold speed. Due to the imbalance, the leaf continued to move above this speed and consequently the brakes did not automatically apply. In order to resolve the problem, we modified the controls to detect the situation where the leaf drive motor is no longer powering the drive, and in that case to apply the brakes regardless of leaf speed. The above related situations are only a sampling of the unexpected issues that needed to be overcome during the commissioning period. Reliability The KGB control system design provided by Byrne is extremely reliable when compared to other movable bridges throughout North America. A number of design features provided by Byrne allow bridge operation to continue despite the occurrence of certain common failures. The bridge therefore can continue to operate while repairs are underway. In addition tq these features built into the original design, software modifications and additions made while trying the get to the root cause of problems during commissioning have resulted in an even more sophisticated bridge control and monitoring system. Therefore, the final product is a system that will be more reliable than originally intended and easier to troubleshoot in the future. Among the programming additions made, monitoring and recording the average and maximum differences b~tween the leaf-position encoders during every lift will assist in resolving future leaf position encoder troubleshooting efforts. Recording the time differences of operation of paired switches monitoring leaf position will assist in their accurate positioning when their replacement becomes necessary. A more sophisticated system of "command handshaking" between the east and west leaf control systems will ensure that commands from the operator control panel(s) are reliably acted upon, both by the system on the side where the control panel is located, but also on the other side of the waterway. 6 COST ITEMS Engineering costs were increased by the significantly extended comrmsslOning time required, carrying out modifications to PLC programming and otherwise resolving problems encountered on site and the additional design and administration for the work added to Byrne's original scope. It is estimated that the engineering cost for commissioning time on site was approximately $68,000. This cost was as a result of the 20 days spent on site by Byrne's electrical project engineer and the engineer carrying out PLC programming modifications while attempting to resolve the many problems encountered. Please refer to the discussion above for details. In addition, PLC programming modifications carried out in Byrne's offices in preparation for commissioning site visits added approximately $14,000 to the cost of the work bringing the total to approximately $82,000. All of Byrne's time on site involved long working days and significant overtime hours. Despite the fact that all of the site time was necessary and unavoidable, Byrne, as a "goodwill gesture", adjusted the billing for commissioning work by eliminating charges for overtime engineering services in excess of 44 hours/week. This resulted in a reduction of $13,000 bringing the net cost of on-site and off-site commissioning engineering services to approximately $69,000. During the progress of this project, additional work over and above Byrne's original scope was carried out as requested. These items were generally new work that became apparent during the course of the project as other work was carried out in and around the bridge. These cost items are summarized below: . Repairs were carried out to roadway lighting pole concrete bases. These repairs were required by the undermined condition of the existing pole bases and the resulting safety hazard. This work cost approximately $15,000. . During the work, the roadway hatch providing access to west side drive equipment was noted to be abnormally raised above the roadway. Byrne was requested to have the cause determined and to take appropriate action, if required, once the cause was determined. When the existing (original) hatch was lifted, it disintegrated therefore requiring its replacement. A temporary hatch cover plate, at a cost of $5,200, was required to close the opening until a permanent fix could be arranged. A new hatch was subsequently designed and temporarily installed until the final surfacing material can be installed this fall. The cost of the new hatch is approximately $14,000. At the present time it has been determined that the supporting structure under the hatch is deficient and requires repairs to ensure its safety. The estimated cost of this repair is estimated to be approximately $35,000 to $45,000 including an allowance for engineering. . Miscellaneous minor electrical upgrades were requested for west operator's tower at a cost of $1,700 . Power for repair hand tools, and for decorative (Christmas and other) lighting at the bridge leaf tip was provided at a cost of $1,600. . Upgrades to navigation lighting fixtures were provided to allow standard signaling to marine traffic and for the provision of extremely long LED type lamps at a cost of $8,500. Long life lamps will reduce the hazard to operating personnel when re-Iamping these hard to access lighting fixtures. . At the request of operating staff, repairs were carried out to machinery brakes in both the east and west leaf drive systems. The cost of this work was approximately $10,000. 7 . Leaf nose lock repairs were carried out at a cost of approximately $6,000. . Sidewalk & miscellaneous concrete repairs were carried out due to the public hazard presented by their deteriorated condition. The cost of this repair was approximately $25,000. Further repairs will be required to other portions of the abutment concrete within the next several years. . During the work, it was noted that the west bridge leaf structure came into contact with the concrete abutment at its north side during each lift. The contractor was asked to grind concrete that was in contact at a cost of $2,000. This repair is temporary. A more permanent fix will be required within the next year or so. The total cost to have the contractor carry out the above additional work was approximately $85,000. Byrne's costs to initiate, design, monitor and approve the work carried out by the contractor are approximately $15,000 for a total cost of approximately $100,000. This cost does not include the cost of the future recommended repairs to the hatch support structure and additional concrete repairs to abutments. Additional work required during and after commissioning: o Updated software for programming DC motor drive $2,000 o Proximity switches $1,800 o Gate modifications $2,250 + replace limit switches o West leaf drive readjustments: The adjustments of the east drive prior to modifications masked an original design defect in the gearing. Adjustments carried out by Comstock to industry standards revealed this underlying problem and required a readjustment for proper operation of the west leaf. It appears that, with the current non-standard adjustment, the gearing will operate properly without major rework. The cost of the readjustment was approximately $8,250. o Comstock "as requested" work after commissioning: · Week ending May 14 $7,000 . Emergency stop circuit revisions . Lock position switches modifications . Leaf drive problems · Week ending May 21 $3,000 . Lock position switch repairs . Leaf position mounting changed due to trunnion bearing problems caused by wear · Week ending May 28 $3,000 . Emergency assistance due to leaf drive problems . Watchdog timer relays · Week ending June 04 $3,000 . Watchdog timer relays . Traffic gate limit switches replaced . Lock proximity switch replaced . Add control relays . Operator display memory card replaced . Rework encoders 8 . Week ending June 11 $5,500 . Emergency call due to leaf closing failure . Control relay additions . Install new west PLC and I/O card rack . Modify leaf brake controls . Modify manual control of traffic control lights . Ongoing commissioning · Total $21,500 9 COMPLETION DELAYS It was originally anticipated that after 3 to 5 days of commissioning of PLC programming, the bridge would be fully operational. The scheduled commissioning date of April 25th was expected to result in a complete and operational bridge by April 29th, well before the May 24th weekend. Even this date was delayed due to circumstances beyond Byrne's control. In order to reduce cost and increase reliability, Byrne contracted Rockwell, the manufacturer of the leaf motor drive equipment and the PLC, to carry out programming relating to the motor drive. Delays were experienced in scheduling the Rockwell person's availability along with conflicting work at the bridge including hatch replacement, brake and drive rework and miscellaneous other items. As outlined above, the commissioning took approximately 20 days on site and extended over a period of approximately 8 weeks resulting in a fully operational bridge by approximately July 13th. Minor problems have been handled as they occurred since that date. At the present time the bridge is reportedly operating reliably. A final concern is with the operation of the leaf motor drives. This equipment is manufactured by Allen BradleylRockwell, one of the major manufacturers of this type of equipment in North America. During latter stages of commissioning, these drives repeatedly presented operating problems. Due to the fact that we had the fmal installation and configuration reviewed by Rockwell during their setup of the equipment, they warrant correct operation as installed. At this time, the DC motor drive problems have not been resolved, partly due to the fact that they have not recurred recently. It is felt that the problems may have been caused by the high temperatures at the time and therefore are likely to reoccur. The Contractor is responsible for coordinating Rockwell's efforts to resolve this problem. Byrne will continue to track this work to ensure its completion. 10 SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS Due to our past experience, and knowing the complexity of the King George Bridge control system, Byrne allowed 3 to 5 days for commissioning of the bridge control software. This scheduled time was based on the assumption that existing and new equipment was installed and operating correctly. It was expected that the existing equipment remaining and not replaced, would be operating correctly as it had in previous seasons. In our past experience, the major cause of difficulties during software commissioning is incorrect equipment installation and wiring connections. Since PLC programming "bugs" are expected, and are the very reason for the software commissioning process, it is necessary to eliminate as many or all of the other sources of problems first. During software debugging, the first suspected cause of problems encountered is the software. Only when software is ruled out do other causes get considered. The contractor was therefore made responsible for confirming correct wiring and installation prior to software commissioning. While some instances of incorrect installation were uncovered, this proved not to be the major source of problems in this project. The main source of problems encountered appears, in retrospect, to have been PLC control hardware and/or the software provided by the PLC manufacturer. This situation is unusual and resulted in a very significant increase in the time and effort, and many delays during commissioning. Some problems during software debugging are the norm during commissioning. For this reason, the manufacturer provides field troubleshooting assistance as a pay for service that Byrne subscribes to. As an indication of the number and complexity of the problems, Byrne spent approximately 10 hours on line with the manufacturer's experts while attempting to resolve the problems on site. In the end, after many failed attempts to resolve a number of apparently unrelated problems, we were advised that the PLC was defective and should be replaced. This only happened after a great deal of time and expense had been incurred. During the entire commissioning period Byrne worked diligently and as efficiently as possible under the circumstances. All of Byrne's efforts were directed at providing a reliable and properly operating bridge for The County of Elgin. Because of attempts to isolate and solve problems, the control system now has features not normally incorporated by Byrne. These features are expected to be of benefit in future. We believe that the control system for the King George Bridge is very safe and reliable and is one of the best in North America from this perspective. While the PLC and the manufacturer's programming appear to have been the cause of most commissioning problems, they were not the only cause. Other problems such as excessively worn leaf support bearings, faulty gate arm position switches, an unusual gate arm actuating mechanism, the fact that the east and west leafs are both significantly out of balance, and a number of other unexpected factors also confounded efforts to debug PLC control programming. 11 The engineering costs that resulted from the above commissioning problems amounted to a total of approximately $68,000 for on site work and another $14,000 for off-site programming work. While Byrne feels that all of this additional time, including significant overtime hours and seven-day weeks during this period, was carried out as efficiently and diligently as possible; as a "goodwill gesture", Byrne provided a credit to Elgin of $13,000 representing the overtime hours spent. In addition to the costs associated with commissioning problems, additional engineering and construction costs were incurred for work that was added to Byrne's scope during the progress of the work. These extra items include ongoing work associated with a roadway machinery hatch in the west approach span, concrete repairs including roadway lighting bases, miscellaneous electrical upgrades not associated with bridge operation, various mechanical repairs and system adjustments, concrete repairs and several other items. The cost of the construction work for these items was approximately $85,000 along with a cost of approximately $15,000 for associated engineering work. A number of additional items and work carried out by the contractor as problems were encountered during commissioning added approximately another $21,500 in cost to the project. As stated previously, the commissioning of the King George Bridge was a very difficult project for Byrne. In retrospect, we believe that there is little that Byrne could have done in advance that would have had a significant impact in reducing the costs or delays experienced. These situations do occur from time to time and are for the most part unavoidable despite Byrne's best efforts to anticipate them. We feel that the end product is a well designed, safe and robust bridge control system, and that the taxpayers of Elgin will reap the long term benefits despite the short term financial pain. 12 REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Clayton Watters, Director of Engineering Services DATE: November 23, 2005 SUBJECT: One-Foot Reserve - MacMillan Introduction The County of Elgin has received a request to transfer a one-foot reserve in a portion of Lot 12, Concession 8 formerly the Municipality of South Dorchester, now known as the Township of Malahide. This one-foot reserve abuts Imperial Road, County Road 73. Discussion The County of Elgin has received a request to transfer a portion of the one-foot reserve, Lot 12, Concession 8 in the former Township of South Dorchester, now the Township of Malahide. This land abuts Imperial Road, County Road 73. The Province of Ontario requested this reserve due to a previous severance application. Staff for the County of Elgin have reviewed this request and conclude that is not required for our road system. In order to transfer this property the County must: declare the property surplus, complete an appraisal for the property and advertise in the local paper that the property is surplus. Conclusion Staff for the County of Elgin concludes that the one-foot reserve is not required for the road system. Therefore, a transfer to the abutting landowner is acceptable, but three issues need to be completed: declare surplus, complete appraisal and advertise in the local paper. All costs to be borne by the requesting landowner. Recommendation That the County of Elgin declare the one foot reserve in Lot 12, Concession 8, in the former Township of South Dorchester now known as the Township of Malahide as surplus: and also, . That the County of Elgin complete an appraisal on the property; and also, That the County of Elgin advertise in the local paper that the property is surplus; and also, And all costs to transfer this one-foot reserve are borne by the landowner. RESPECTFULL Y SUBMITTED APPROVED FOR SUBMISSION ~3- Mark MCDO~ ,--- Chief Administrative Officer cnw,,-w, Clayton D. Watters, Director of Engineering Services REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Clayton Watters, Director, Engineering Services DATE: October 22, 2005 SUBJECT: Ontario Clean Water Agency Operations Agreement for Elgin Manor Wastewater Treatment Plant INTRODUCTION The new wastewater treatment plant at Elgin Manor will be completed in early January 2006, which will be fully automated. We presently have an operating agreement with Ontario Clean Water Agency to provide: management, operation, administration and maintenance services. DISCUSSION: Ontario Clean Water Agency (OCWA) has provided a template contract for: management, operation, administration and maintenance services for the new wastewater treatment plant at Elgin Manor. The solicitor for the County of Elgin has provided comments to staff and they state that OCWA contract provides little flexibility in contract language to the County of Elgin. Council should be aware of the following information: . The term of the contract shall be from January 1 till December 31, 2006, . The yearly compensation for OCWA services is $39,538, . OCWA will provide certified operators and other trained staff as required by regulations, . The County of Elgin is responsible for arranging all aspects of sludge removal and disposal as required by all laws, the County will be also be responsible for all consumable products. A copy of the agreement is available for County Council to review. CONCLUSION: The County of Elgin is requiring a contract for: management, operation, administration and maintenance services for the new wastewater treatment plant at Elgin Manor from the Ontario Clean Water Agency by agreement for servicing the new plant. The agreement is for a one-year term at cost off $39,538. RECOMMENDATION: That the Warden and the Chief Administrative Officer be directed and authorized to sign an agreement with Ontario Clean Water Agency to provide management, operation, administration and maintenance services for the wastewater treatment plant at Elgin Manor at the price of $39,538; and also, That the term of the agreement is for the calendar year of 2006. Respectfully Submitted WAJ~-bh Approved for Submission :fiinald ~ Chief Administrative Officer Clayton Watters Director, Engineering Services REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Clayton Watters, Director, Engineering Services Brian Masschaele, Manager, Archives Sonia Beavers, Purchasing Co-Ordinator DATE: December 5, 2005 SUBJECT: Elgin County Museum Construction Tender Recommendation Introduction As part of the Capital Budget, Requests for Tenders were issued as per the County's Purchasing Policy and sealed bids were received until Thursday, November 17, 2005 for the renovations to the 4th floor at the County Administration Building. Discussion / Conclusion Formal Tenders were retained and bids were received as follows: Company Tender Bid (including taxes) 668950 Ontario Inc. o/a Mycon Construction $ 374,500.00 SDI Builders Limited $ 379,360.12 Allied Construction Corporation $ 406,493.00 Aveiro Constructors Limited $ 406,568.97 Verly Construction Group $ 410,222.01 Graceview Enterprises Inc. $ 412,485.00 Sierra Construction (Woodstock) Limited $ 422,115.00 Reid & DeLeye Contractors Limited $ 431,974.56 668950 Ontario Inc. o/a Mycon Construction submitted the lowest bid for the renovations to the 4th Floor at the County Administration Building at a total price of $ 374,500 (including taxes). The bid includes labour, material and equipment required to complete the project as specified in the tender document. The architect fees from Spriet Associates is $40,125 (taxes included). A total of $400,000 has been allocated for this project. The total construction cost, including engineering/design services, will be approximately $415,000 which includes a $15,000 contingency allowance. This cost does not include fixtures such as furniture and shelving which was part of the original estimate. The overall discrepancy can be attributed to inflationary increases from the original estimate which was provided in 2004, tender results which were higher than the original estimate and higher design fees. Staff are recommending that funds donated to the Elgin County Pioneer Museum, which currently stand at approximately $70,000, be used to cover additional costs associated with this project, including items such as furniture and fixtures. Recommendation THAT 668950 Ontario Inc. o/a Mycon Construction be selected for the renovations to the 4th Floor at the County Administration Building as the future home of the Elgin County Museum at the quoted price of $374,500 (including taxes) and; AND THAT funds donated to the Elgin County Pioneer Museum be used to cover additional costs associated with the project; THAT the Warden and Chief Administrative Officer be authorized to enter into an agreement for the renovations of the 4th floor at the County Administration Building. Respectfully Submitted, ~~ . n Masschaele Manager, Archives J~~ Sonia Beavers p;Jn:J;~-ordinator Clayton Watters Director, Engineering Services Approved By, Cd;tc&N?~ Cathy Bi . op Director, Library Services ~Don~ Chief Administrative Officer REPORT TO COUNCIL FROM: Harley Underhill, Director of Human Resources DATE: December 1, 2005 SUBJECT: Human Resources Policy Amendments INTRODUCTION The Human Resources Policy Manual amendments proposed are for housekeeping, clarification and accessibility barrier purposes. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: Attached are the following Human Resources policy amendment proposed: Policy 9.20 Policy 9.80 Policy 9.90 Policy 10.50 Hours of Work/Alternative Work Arrangement Hiring Policies Policy 3.10 has only been attached as all nine (9) Hiring Policies will reflect the same amendment. Acts of Nature Bereavement Leave Pregnancy/Parental Leave Mileage Policy 2.10 Section 3 RECOMMENDATION: THAT Management Team approves the amendments proposed for the policies noted above. Approved for Submission M1€I~ ~ Chief Administrative Officer J:\HR\Mgmt-Council Reports\2005 Reports\Reports to Council\Council Report - Policies (Dec 1.05).doc County of Elgin Section: 2 Human Resources Policy Manual Subject: Hours of Work/Alternative Work Arrangement Policy Number: 2.10 Code - NUlFT Date Approved: Feb. 13/01 Page 1 of 8 Date Last Revision: Feb 15/05 Purpose In recognition of the growing need of many employees to balance work, family and personal responsibilities, the County of Elgin endorses and supports the concept of alternative work arrangements (AWA's). These flexible work options offer a variation on the traditional five-day week of seven hours per day. AWA's are based on voluntary employee participation. The balance between employee needs and the needs of the organisation are often difficult. Maintaining service delivery standards and ensuring operational feasibility must always be considered and never compromised. Application This policy applies to all non-union employees for the County of Elgin. There are three plans outlined below, one for the Directors/CAD, one for the 2nd In-Commands, and one for the Regular Non-union group, which reflects the responsibility and expectatio~s for these positions. Benefits The proper use of flexible hours should result in mutual benefits to the County, employees and clients. Success of the arrangement will be measured by the extent to which it results in better service to clients/members of the public, and a healthier work climate. Managers and employees should take this goal into consideration before entering into an AWA agreement. County of Elgin Section: 2 Human Resources Policy Manual Subject: Hours of Work/Alternative Work Arrangement Policy Number: 2.10 Code - NU/FT Date Approved: Feb. 13/01 Page 2 of 8 Date Last Revision: Feb 15/05 The three plans are outlined below: 1. Directors/CAO: True Flex-time · Determine their start and finish times. · Additional time worked each day can be used to take one full day off per week, or part there of, as long as 70 hours are worked by the end of each pay-period. · This plan is based on the honour system and the discretion of the Director/CAD to ensure the needs of the corporation are met. · The Warden has the right to adjust the CAD's flex-time. · The CAD has the right to alter the Director's flex-time. · Electronic timesheets will be used & the Director of Human Resources or designate will have access to the same. Overtime: · Accumulated time off must be used in the current year that it was earned, with the exception of time earned in December, which can be utili sed in January of the following year. · Accumulated time off will not be paid out under any circumstances. 2. 2nd In-Commands and others as designated by the Director/CAO*: True Flex with Core Hours · Determine their start and finish times from the work schedule indicated in the policy. -. T-he-core hours-of9:-30--1-1~30-and-1 ;-30 --3,:30 must-be filled; · Additional time worked each day can be used to take one full day off per pay-period, in consultation with their Director/CAD, as long as 70 hours are worked by the end of each pay-period.' - · The Director/CAD has the right to change schedules, reduce the number of choices below, and reduce time-off to ensure the needs of the department and County are met. · Electronic timesheets will be used & the Director of Human Resources or designate will have access to the same. County of Elgin Section: 2 Human Resources Policy Manual Subject: Hours of Work/Alternative Work Arrangement Policy Number: 2.10 Code -NUlFT Date Approved: Feb. 13/01 Page 3 of 8 Date Last Revision: Feb 15/05 Overtime: . Accumulated time off must be used in the current year that it was earned, with the exception of time earned in December, which can be utili sed in January of the following year. . Accumulated time off will not be paid out under any circumstances. 8:30 am to 4:30 pm 7 9:00 am to 5:00 pm 7 *NOTE: At'the discretion of the department head, employees may be permitted to utilise true flex with core hours, depending upon the requirements of the department and the needs of the corporation. 3. Regular Non-Union Employees: Staggered Work Hours . Choose a work schedule from the list below. . Additional time worked each day is accumulated to allow one day off every other pay-period. This time must be taken within the current two pay-period cycle. . The Director/CAD has the right to change schedules, reduce the number of choices - - -beTow,--an-a- reauce- ume=off fo- ensuretne needs- of fhe -depanfife-rif ana -CCfunlY- are met. . Electronic timesheets will be used & the Director of Human Resources or designate will have access to the same. . Road employees will be exempt during the construction season, which will be clearly defined. Overtime: County of Elgin Section: 2 Human Resources Policy Manual Subject: Hours of Work/Alternative Work Arrangement Policy Number: 2.10 Code - NU/FT Date Approved: Feb. 13/01 Page 4 of 8 Date Last Revision: Feb 15/05 To qualify under this section, all overtime hours worked must be properly documented and authorized. Staff, other than those noted above, who normally work 35 hours per week will receive compensation for overtime hours worked as follows: Hours worked exceeding 35 hours per week, calculate at time for time 8:30 am to 4:30 pm 7 9:00 am to 5:00 pm 7 Note: Employees have the option to work an additional (1) one hour each day, to a maximum of 7 hours accumulated during two pay-periods, to be eligible for one day off with pay. Procedure 1. Application - Employees must complete an AWA Participation Agreement form, Schedule "A" (attached), including a proposed bi-weekly schedule. 2. Duration - All AWA agreements are for a defined period of time, subject to -- - -- - - _n - _0 _n -- -renewal--no-Iater-than-- Gecember-31-st-of- each- -year,- after-evaltlation---by-the- -- _0- -- ____m_ employee, Manager and Director/CAD. 3. Scheduling - To facilitate department scheduling and maintain full coverage, each employee's AWA schedule must be constant, including pre-determined scheduled days off. The size of the department, vacation time, and the employee's role within the department will be considered when creating the AWA schedule. County of Elgin Section: 2 Human Resources Policy Manual Subject: Hours of Work/Alternative Work Arrangement Policy Number: 2.10 Code - NU/FT Date Approved: Feb. 13/01 Page 5 of 8 Date Last Revision: Feb 15/05 4. Approval Process - Prior to approval, Managers must review proposals thoroughly, ensuring the efficiency of each work unit and considering operational and service requirements. Participation will be approved based on whether service requirements can be met, subject to modifications, where necessary. When a scheduling conflict occurs, each department will be responsible for developing a schedule that ensures fairness to all those participating and meets operational requirements. Each AWA agreement must be modified to reflect these changes prior to approval. Prior to implementation, the AWA Participation Agreement must be signed by the employee, Manager and Director/CAG and reviewed by Human Resources to ensure compliance with this policy. 5. Renewal of Existing AWA Agreements - All existing AWA agreements in each work unit will terminate on December 31st of each year and will be reviewed collectively prior to renewal to ensure fairness for all those participating and to maintain full service. Employees wishing to continue their existing AWA agreements on January 1st, must re-submit proposals no later than December 1 st of each year. 6. . AWA Changes - Employees have the opportunity to submit two schedules per year that would change the hours worked on the: 15t day of summer 15t day of winter 7. Agreement ,Changes - Employees reverting back to their regular schedule should give 60 days notice to their supervisor. County of Elgin Section: 2 Human Resources Policy Manual Subject: Hours of Work/Alternative Work Arrangement Policy Number: 2.10 Code - NUlFT Date Approved: Feb. 13/01 Page 6 of 8 Date Last Revision: Feb 15/05 8. Monitoring - Human Resources will be responsible for maintaining ongoing monitoring of the program, as well as providing general information and assistance to participating departments. 9. Failure to Comply - Failure to comply with specified conditions may result in suspension or discontinuance of the employee's AWA. 10. Suspension of AWA - Any and/or all AWA's may be discontinued, altered or temporarily suspended by management for the following reasons: a) operational/productivity/performance concerns b) vacation/statutory holiday periods c) staff training/conferences d) illnesses/bereavement leave or other absences e) emergency circumstances f) transfer/promotion to or from a new work unit/team AWA Regulations 1. Disclaimer - The AWA Plan is a privilege for all non-union employees subject to management's discretion for the staffing needs of their department. While every effort will be taken to accommodate the AWA Policy for employees, the needs of the corporation must be mpt 2. Attendance Records - Employees must complete the electronic timesheet daily, accurately and adhere to the established work schedule. The electronic timesheet should reflect actual hours worked and AWA time taken in accordance with the agreement. 3. Breaks and Lunch Periods - Breaks are a safety and service requirement. Participants shall not accumulate breaks towards hours worked. The lunch period shall not be reduced to less than thirty minutes. County of Elgin Section: 2 Human Resources Policy Manual Subject: Hours of Work/Alternative Work Arrangement Policy Number: 2.10 Code - NU/FT Date Approved: Feb. 13/01 Page 7 of 8 Date Last Revision: Feb 15/05 4. Personal Appointments -These appointments should be scheduled for the employee's regular time off. On occasions where this is not possible appointments requiring less than ~ day, time can be made up throughout that pay-period. Where more than ~ day is required, this time must be used as a vacation day or a LOA day. Time for personal appointments are subject to department head/designate approval. ... 5. Vacation - Vacation accrual for employees participating in staggered work hours will be calculated based on the "normal" hours of 7 per day and 35 per week, in accordance with the applicable vacation schedule. 6. Sick Leave - Sick leave accrual for employees participating in staggered work hours will be calculated based on the "normal" hours of 7 per day and 35 per week. 7. Statutory Holidays - As statutory holidays are a non-earned credit, statutory holidayswill be paid based on "normal" working hours of 7 per day. For statutory holidays which fall on work days when an employee is scheduled to work more than 7 hours, the employee may adjust the remaining hours in the week or use accumulated vacation, overtime or floating holiday hours to make up the difference, subject to supervisory approval. If this is not possible, the employee may revert to his/her "regular" schedule for that cycle. 8. Bereavement Leave - As bereavement leave is a non-earned credit, all full-time employees will be entitled to bereavement -leave provisions, as- per the applicable policy, based on "normal" working hours of 7 per day. When bereavement leave is taken on a work day for which an employee is scheduled to work more than 7 hours, the employee may adjust the remaining hours in the week or use accumulated vacation, overtime or floating holiday hours to make up the difference, subject to supervisory approval. - If this is not possible, the employee may revert to their "regular" schedule for that cycle. County of Elgin Section: 2 Human Resources Policy Manual Subject: Hours of Work/Alternative Work Arrangement Policy Number: 2.10 Code - NU/FT Date Approved: Feb. 13/01 Page 8 of 8 Date Last Revision: Feb 15/05 9. Jury Duty/Court Attendance - Days off for Jury Duty will be based on "normal" working hours of 7 per day. When Jury Duty/Court Attendance is taken on a work day for which an employee is scheduled to work more than 7 hours, the employee may adjust the remaining hours in the week or use accumulated vacation, overtime or floating holiday hours to make up the difference, subject to supervisory approval. If this is not possible, the employee may revert to thek "regular" schedule for that cycle. 10.0verlime - If an employee is required to work the AWA scheduled day off, due to unforeseen circumstances, additional time off will be credited to the next pay-period. 11. Training/Conferences - Employees attending outside training courses and conferences will be paid based on the "normal" work hours of 7 per day. For outside training/conferences, which fall on a workday for which an employee is scheduled to work more than 7 hours, the employee may adjust the remaining hours in the week or use accumulated vacation, overtime or floating holiday hours to make up the difference, subject to supervisory approval. If this is not possible, the employee may revert to their "regular" schedule for that cycle. If the outside training/conference falls on a scheduled day off, the employee may take another day off in lieu within the same pay period, which is mutually convenient to the employee and immediate supervisor. When travel time to and from training and conferences is outside the regular work day and the distance is greater tha~ fifty (50) kilometers a~ employee may accumulate one (1) hour for each one hundred (100) kilometers traveled in accordance with the convention mileage in Policy 10.60. Schedule "A" County of Elgin Hours of Work/Alternative Work Arrangement Participation Agreement Department: Manager Name: Employee: Employee Number: _ _ __ Position: Plan: 1. Directors'CAO 0 2. 2nd In-Command 0 3. Regular Employee 0 Submission date: _'_'_ ( DO MM VY) In accordance with the AWA Policy, I am submitting the following proposal for review and approval. The AWA arrangement will commence on _'_'_ and will continue until _'_'_' (DO MM YY) (DO MM VY) NOTE: All AWA Participation Agreements must terminate on or before December 31st of each year. Note: Each employee can only choose 1 plan, either PLAN A, B, or C. The following is my proposed plan: PLAN Start Finish Total Hours Day Day Worked 0 PLAN A 8:00 4:00 7.0 0 PLAN B 8:30 4:30 7.0 0 PLAN C 9:00 5:00 7.0 Day Off "Happy Friday" Plan: The table below is for employees in Plan 2 & 3 of the policy that want to work additional time on certain days to accumulate 7 hours in the pay period cycle indicated in their Plan. Please fill out .below-the days-you would like to.workadditional.time on aregularly.scheduled basis Actual Schedule: Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Total Hours Worked Per Week I total Week 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Y2 hour 1 hour Y2 hour 1 hour Y2 hour 1 hour Y2 hour 1 hour Y2 hour 1 hour Week 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Y2 hour 1 hour Y2 hour 1 hour Y2 hour 1 hour Y2 hour 1 hour Y2 hour 1 hour Week 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Y2 hour 1 hour Y2 hour 1 hour Y2 hour 1 hour Y2 hour 1 hour Y2 hour 1 hour Week 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Y2 hour 1 hour Y2 hour 1 hour Y2 hour 1 hour Y2 hour 1 hour Y2 hour 1 hour /140 NOTE: Employees in Plan 2 are only to complete Week 1 and 2 Employees in Plan 3 are to complete Week 1, 2, 3, & 4 APPROVAL PROCESS I fully understand and agree to the terms and conditions of this agreement, and understand that my Manager and/or Director/CAD has the authority to deny, modify, continue, discontinue or temporarily suspend this AWA Participation Agreement at any time. Employee's Signature: Date: / / (DD MM YY) MANAGER: Approved 0 Denied 0 Manager's Signature: Date: / / (DD MM VY) DIRECTOR/CAD: Approved 0 Denied o Director/CAD's Signature: Date: (DO / I MM VY) County of Elgin Section: 3 Human Resources Policy Manual Subject: Hiring Procedure Policy Number: 3.10 Code - A Date Approved: Oct. 1/87 Page 1 of 3 Date Last Revision: March 23/04 FULL TIME EMPLOYEES (a) Increases and decreases to the Full-time Complement Authorization for the creation of all new Full-time positions and/or the increase or decrease of the regular Full-time staff complements shall be completed as follows: i) The Department Head will prepare a report with recommendations to the Senior Management Team. ii) The Senior Management Team will review the request, accept and recommend it to County Council or deny and retum it to the Department Head. iii) County council will approve or deny the request. b) Replacing Full-time Positions Authorization to fill vacancies for existing regular Full-time positions, which will not increase the staff complement, or temporary positions which will not cause the department to go over . bupg~t, shall be completep a~ follows: . - -- - -- -- - . - - - - - i) As required the affected Department Head shall meet with the Chief Administrative Officer and Director of Human Resources to justify the need before recruitment begins. ii) In the event of a disagreement at (b )(i), the authorization will be referred to County Council for a decision before the vacancy may be filled. Hi) Once approved the Department Head or designate shall complete the appropriate forms and forward them to the Director of Human Resources and the CAG for signature and posting in accordance with policy 3.20. County of Elgin Section: 3 Human Resources Policy Manual Subject: Hiring Procedure Policy Number: 3.10 Date Approved: Oct. 1/87 Date Last Revision: March 23/04 Code - A Page 2 of 3 PART TIME EMPLOYEES (a) Increases to the Part-time Hours: i) The Department Head will prepare a report with recommendations to the Senior Management Team. ii) The Senior Management Team will review the request, accept and recommend it to County Councilor deny and return it to the Department Head. iii) County council will approve or deny the request. (b) Increases to the Part-time Compliment: Authorization for the creation of all new part-time positions and/or the increase or decrease of the regular part-time staff complements shall be completed as follows: i). The Department Head, Chief Administrative Officer and Director of Human Resources will review and approve all new part-time positions and/or the increase or decrease of the regular part-time staff compliments. It is the responsibility of the department head to ensure that the approved hours for part-time are not exceeded. c) The Director of Human Resources, Chief Administrative Officer and Council, shall advertise for, interview and select staff to fill the position of Department Head. (d) The Director of Human Resources, Chief Administrative Officer, Warden and/or designate and affected Department Head with Council approval shall advertise for, interview and select staff to fill the position of Deputy or Second in Command. County of Elgin Human Resources Policy Manual Section: 3 Subject: Hiring Procedure Policy Number: 3.10 Date Approved: Oct. 1/87 Date Last Revision: March 23/04 Code - A Page 3 of 3 (e) The Department Head in conjunction with the Director of Human Resources shall have the authority to hire all other staff with proper approval, and shall personally carry out necessary recruiting/selection procedures, unless delegated to an appropriate individual within the Department. The County of Elgin is an equal opportunity employer and carries out hiring based on non- discrimination of the Human Rights Code. County of Elgin Human Resources Policy Manual Section: 9 Subject: Acts of Nature Policy Number: 9.20 Date Approved: Oct. 1/87 Date Last Revision: Oct. 26/93 Code - [delete A] N/U Page 1 of 1 An employee shall not lose any regular wages if sent home, or if there is an agreement that it is impossible or unsafe to report for work as a result of a snow storm, ice storm, tornado, flood, or other unforeseen act of nature. The Director of Human Resources will decide on the appropriate action to take, with the approval of the Warden and/or the [delete Chairman of the Executive Committee] Chief Administrative Officer. An employee who is prevented from reporting to work as stated above shall notify the employer as soon as possible. Failing to report may result in the loss of wages for that time off. County of Elgin Section: 9 Human Resources Policy Manual Subject: Bereavement Leave Page 1 of 1 Policy Number: 9.80 Date Approved: Oct. 1/87 Date Last Revision: Jan. 20/04 Code - NUlPT/FTlCT (a) In the case of a death of an employee's immediate family, a leave of absence of up to three (3) consecutive calendar days will be granted and shall include the day of the funeral and/or memorial service. One (1) of said calendar days may be granted, as an exception, upon receipt of a written request delivered to the Department Head when the memorial service is scheduled at a later date. In all cases, the Human Resources Department shall be notified of the leave of absence. (b) Scheduled work days and hours, which fall within the period granted under (a), will be paid at the employee's regular rate. (c) "Immediate Family" is defined as: spouse, common-law spouse, child, common-law spouse's child, mother, step-mother, father, step-father, brother, sister, grandchild, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, mother-in-law, common-law spouse's mother, father-in-law, common-law spouse's father, grandparent, spouses grandparents, aunt, uncle, spouses aunt, spouse's uncle. (d) An employee will be granted up to one (1) day bereavement leave with pay for the purpose of attending the funeral/or memorial service of great grandparents, great grandparents-in-Iaw, niece or nephew. County of Elgin Section: 9 Human Resources Policy Manual Subject: delete [Maternity] Pregnancy/Parental Leave Policy Number: 9.90 Code - NU Date Approved: Oct. 1/87 Page 1 of2 Date Last Revision: Jan. 20/04 delete [Maternity, Parental, and Adoption] Pregnancy/Parental leave will be granted in accordance with the provisions of the Employment Standards Act, except where amended in this provision. Employees should notify their immediate supervisor at least two (2) weeks before they intend to begin their leave. delete rMaternitvl Preanancv Leave An employee qualifying for pregnancy leave under Human Resources Development Canada shall be paid a maximum of eighty percent (80%) top up of the normal weekly earnings from all sources. Such payment shall commence following the completion of the Employment Insurance waiting period and receipt by the Employer of the employee's Employment Insurance cheque stub and shall continue the payment bi-weekly for delete [the period ~tatcd for pregnancy leave in the Employment In~urancc Act] fifteen (15) weeks. Parental Leave An employee qualifying for parental leave under Human Resources Canada shall be paid a maximum of eighty percent (80%) top up of the normal weekly earnings from all sources. Such payment shall commence following the completion of the Employment Insurance waiting period and receipt by the Employer of the employee's Employment Insurance cheque stub and shall continue the payment - - - - - -hi~weekl~dor fifteen (15)"weeks - -- - -- -- - - - - - - - - - -. . - - - - -- - - - - --- - - - - - The employee's regular weekly earnings shall be determined by multiplying the regular hourly rate on the last day worked, prior to the commencement of the leave, based on the employee's normal weekly hours. The normal weekly hours for a part-time employee shall be calculated by using the same time period used for calculation of the Employment insurance benefit (currently 26 weeks). The employee does not have any vested right except to receive payments for the covered unemployment period. The plan provides that payments in respect of guaranteed annual remuneration or in respect of deferred remuneration or severance pay benefits are not reduced or increased by payments received under the plan. County of Elgin Section: 9 Human Resources Policy Manual Subject: delete [Maternity] Pregnancy/Parental Leave Policy Number: 9.90 Code - NU Date Approved: Oct. 1/87 Page 2 of2 Date Last Revision: Jan. 20/04 delete rParental Leave An employee '"ho ha:J taken a pregnancy leave under /\rticle 11.05 i:J eligible to be granted a parental leave, in accordance with the Employment Standard:J Act. In ca:Jes of adoption, the employee :Jhall advise tho County as far in advance as pO:J:Jible 'vVith respect to a prospective adoption and shall request the loave of absence, in writing, upon receipt of confirmation of the pending adoption. If, becau:Je of late receipt of confirmation of the pending adoption, the employee find::; it impossible to request the leave of ab::;enee in 'Nriting, the reque:Jt may be made verbally and subsequently verified in 'Nriting. An employee qualifying for parental leave under Human Resources Canada ahall be paid a maximum of eighty percent (80%) top up of the normal weekly earnings from all source::;. Such payment ahall . commence following the completion of the Employment Insurance 'Naiting period and receipt by the Employer of the employee's Employment Insurance cheque ntub and shall continue the payment bi weekly for the period :Jtated for parental leave in the Employment In:Jurance Act. The employee'::; regular V'/eekly earnings shall be determined by multiplying the regular hourly rate on the last day worked, prior to the commencement of the leave, based on the employee'c normal weekly hours. The normal weekly hour:J for a part time employee shall be calculated by using the same time period u:Jed for calculation of the Employment Innurance benefit (currently 26 weeks). The employee doe:J not have any vested right except to receivo payment:J for the . covered u-ncmpio-ymcnt - period. - . Tho -- plan - provHes - that - payments - fn- rc6p6d - of guaranteed annual remuneration or in respect of deferred remuneration or :Jeverance pay benefits arc not reduced or increased by payments received under the plan.] County of Elgin Section: 10 Human Resources Policy Manual Subject: Mileage Policy Number: 10.50 Code - A Date Approved: Oct. 1/87 Page 1 of 1 Date Last Revision: Oct. 25/05 Employees who do not have a County-supplied vehicle will be paid a mileage rate for use of their own vehicle on County business. delete [thi3 rate will be reviev.'ed annually by Council.] Effective January 1, 2006, the kilometric rate will be established by the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat and adjusted each December for implementation each January thereafter. REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Dorothy Schaap, Payroll & Benefits Coordinator DATE: November 28, 2005 SUBJECT: Request for Proposal (RFP) - Benefit Consultant Review INTRODUCTION The review of the County's benefit consultant was brought to council in May of this year as this process had not been formally reviewed since 1997. The review is based mostly on service provided to our umbrella plan and additional services that are available from the firm with particular emphasis on cost and keeping us informed of the changing trends in the industry. DISCUSSION: Seven companies were invited to submit proposals, six of which responded. Upon review of the proposals and following the county purchasing policy, three were selected for interviews. All three presentations were outstanding making the decision a difficult one. We focused on service, client base, and experience with umbrella plans, how innovative they were, and then a review of the fee structure, paid to the agent of record from the various benefit carriers. On the surface there was a difference in the quoted fees of approximately $3,700.00 from the lowest to the highest. We then asked what was included in the fees and the two firms that quoted the lowest fees had additional charges for services offered. Mosey and Mosey, who had the highest fee quoted, in fact were offering an all inclusive fee for all services which in turn would be the most cost effective option. This would avoid us having to budget for direct benefit consulting dollars at the County level. Upon a closer review of Mosey and Mosey's experience with umbrella plans and how innovative they are, a clear leader came to the surface. Mosey and Mosey have confirmed a rate guarantee of three years. Based upon our 1.5 million-dollar block of business, they would receive approximately $22,500 per year. CONCLUSION: After careful consideration and discussion it was clear that Mosey and Mosey in particular stood out among the rest. Mosey and Mosey Insurance Agency Ltd. currently represent over 200 public sector groups in Ontario of which 11 are Counties. As leading employee benefit specialists, they have the experience, resources and innovative ideas to provide the highest calibre consulting advice to the County of Elgin and all lower tier member municipalities who participate under the umbrella plan. It is also to be noted that with such a large block of public sector business, they have a solid relationship with the various carriers, who in turn can pass on preferred rates. As the County of Elgin had a past relationship with Mosey and Mosey, prior to 1997, they are familiar with our plans and the level of service expected. RECOMMENDATION: THAT the firm of Mosey and Mosey Insurance Agency Ltd. be selected as the agent of record for the County of Elgin, effective as soon as possible. Respectfully Submitted ~b~ Chief Administrative Officer ~~4. #{1 orothy Schaap . Payroll & Benefits Coordinator REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Dorothy Schaap, Payroll & Benefits Coordinator DATE: November 28, 2005 SUBJECT: Excess Indemnity Renewal 2006, Occupational Accident Insurance INTRODUCTION: The County's Excess Indemnity and Occupational Accident Insurance is due for renewal at 12:01 a.m. on January 1, 2006. DISCUSSION: The Excess Indemnity Policy assists with liability for claims in excess of $350,000 and to date we have forwarded three claims that have a potential to reach this amount. The Occupational Accident Policy covers for partial or permanent disability on the job and to date we have forwarded five claims for adjudication. The renewal premium rates for 2006 for both Excess Indemnity and Occupational Accident Insurance will not be increased. The approximate premium for the Excess Indemnity for 2005 is $56,000 including taxes and $8,300 including taxes for the Occupational Accident Insurance premium. CONCLUSION: Excess Indemnity coverage as well as Occupational Accident coverage for the County for 2006 must be secured. It is imperative that we have no lapse in coverage, which would open us up to liability. That the renewal rates for 2006 be approved. RECOMMENDATION: THAT County Council approves the Excess Indemnity coverage and Occupational Accident coverage for 2006 in the amount of approximately $64,300. That the premium be funded from the WSIB Reserve Account. Respectfully Submitted ~SUbmiS Mark lu Chief Administrative Officer {,u~ Dorothy Schaap Payroll & Benefits Coordinator r il uman Resources ,-~ .. . , . . REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Dorothy Schaap, Payroll & Benefits Coordinator DATE: November 28, 2005 SUBJECT: 2006 OMERS Contribution Rates INTRODUCTION: November 28, 2005, OMERS confirmed that the contributions rates proposed in July of 2005 had received government approval. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: The Provincial Government recently approved the following rates for the first full pay period in January 2006,6.5% on earnings up to $42,100 and 9.6% on earnings over $42,100. The approximate increase to the County of Elgin budget for 2006 will be $71,000. RECOMMENDATION: THAT the report on 2006 OMERS contribution rates be received and filed. Respectfully Submitted Mark Chief Administrative Officer i~ Dorothy Schaap Payroll & Benefits Coordinator REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Mark G. McDonald, Chief Administrative Officer. DATE: November 29th, 2005 SUBJECT: CORPORATE GOALS Introduction: As part of the annual budget process, departments review their goals and objectives for the coming year. Inevitably this leads to a discussion of key county-wide or corporate goals and the values associated with those objectives. These goals, while understood, have not been formally documented. The Management Team held a special meeting to determine the main goals of the County and this report reflects the outcome of that meeting. With Council's blessing, staff intend to use these goals as a reference document to guide the County through current and future initiatives. Discussion: The Management Team, having considered a number of possibilities, recommends the following eight corporate goals (they are listed randomly as they are all important): 1) To ensure fiscal responsibility and accountability - the County's shareholders (taxpayers) must have confidence that their tax dollar is spent wisely and that it is transparent. 2) To promote cultural services - Elgin County has always been a supporter of Libraries, the Museum and now Archives. There is a proud tradition of cultural services. 3) To nurture and support dignified long-term care - Elgin County is known for its care of residents in its three Homes. The development of the Bobier Villa and the redevelopment of Elgin Manor are shining examples of Council's will to provide dignified care. 4) To be recognized as a desired employer - policies to attract and retain employees have been adopted, such as the Alternate Work Arrangement (AWA), and civil respectful workplace initiatives. 5) To promote Elgin as "The Place to Live" - the County is proud of its rich agricultural heritage, its rural/urban mix and its pace of life. 6) To forae community partnerships - the agreement with the Kettle Creek Conservation Authority for tree by-law and weed inspection services and the Tourist Association for marketing Elgin are two examples of community partnerships. The more partnerships that can be developed the greater the opportunity to prosper. 7) To provide innovative and collaborative qualitv service - the County should encourage "out of the box" thinking, new ways of doing business and collaboration. A customer service focus should be enshrined in all that we do as a corporation. 8) To recoanize and seize opportunities for improvement - staff and Council should be encouraged to be vigilant in the pursuit of opportunities for improvement. It is a "mind set", a mentality that promotes new ideas and is action oriented. Conclusion: A review of the County's main values, goals and objectives has been undertaken. Eight key goals have been identified for Council's consideration. Once adopted, staff recommend that a communication strategy be implemented and that these corporate goals be referenced often as a platform for all operations. Recommendation: THAT County Council adopt, as a matter of policy, eight corporate goals and objectives as identified in the report dated November 29th, 2005; and, THAT staff be directed to develop a communication plan to publicize the goals and to implement them at every opportunity. ALL of which is respectfully submitted, 1!!i; )---- Mark G. McDonald, Chief Administrative Officer on behalf of the Management Team. REPORT TO MANAGEMENT TEAM FROM: Sandra Heffren, Deputy Clerk DATE: 02 December 2005 SUBJECT: SCHEDULE OF COUNCIL MEETINGS FOR 2006 Attached for your consideration are suggested meeting dates for County Council for 2006. Council can change meeting dates at any time with advanced notice. RECOMMENDATION: THAT the attached schedule of meeting dates for County Council be approved. Respectfully Submitted Approved for Submission '*/ S.J effre Deputy Clerk. Mark G. , Chief Administrative Officer. DRAFT - SCHEDULE OF COUNTY COUNCIL MEETINGS FOR 2006 DATE OF MEETING TIME January 13 - Draft Budget mailed to Council January 24 9:00 a.m. - 4th Tuesday - one meeting due to Christmas shutdown - Capital budget discussion February 14 9:00 a.m. - Operational budget discussion - ROMAlOGRA Conference Feb 20-23 March 14 9:00 a.m. March 28 9:00 a.m. April 11 9:00 a.m. -Good Friday 14th/Easter Monday 1 yth April 25 9:00 a.m May 16 9:00 a.m. - 3rd Tuesday - due to Statutory Holiday on 22nd June 13 9:00 a.m. June 27 9:00 a.m. July 11 9:00 a.m. -Canada Day July 3rd July 25 9:00 a.m. August 8 9:00 a.m. - meetings are not normally held in August August 22 9:00 a.m. - Civic Holiday yth / 2006 AMO Annual Conf. 13th _16th September 12 9:00 a.m. - Labour Day 4th September 26 9:00 a.m. October 24 9:00 a.m. - one meeting in October due to AMO Counties Regions Conference 1 st_4th / Thanksgiving 9th November 14 9:00 a.m. - Remembrance Day 13th November 28 9:00 a.m. December 12 7:00 p.m. - Warden's Election December 14 9:00 a.m. - Regular Council Meeting Council Meetings are normallv held every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month and are subject to change. REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Linda B. Veger, Director of Financial Services DATE: November 28, 2005 SUBJECT: Budget Comparison - October 31, 2005 Introduction: Attached is the budget comparison to October 31, 2005 for the County operating departments. Discussion: Warden and Council - positive variance - 33,044 - timing of payrolls. Convention expenditures are under budget as well as the warden's recognition budget line Administration Building - positive variance - 39,296 - purchased services, repairs and maintenance, and utilities under budget. Human Resources - positive variance - 34,289 - staffing changes. Corporate Expenditures - positive variance - 40,959 - insurance and audit under budget. Audit expenditures occur later in the year. Also, more recoveries than budgeted. Overall the three Homes are in a positive position. Revenues are coming in line with the increases as reported to Council earlier. As discussed with Council when the 2005 budget was presented, all departments estimated minimum increases in the benefits line. Some departments within the Homes and within other departments may have negative variances at year end for benefit accounts. Museum - positive variance 28,728 - wages are over budget by 8,529. A report was presented and approved by Council that some of the wage line in Archives would be utilized by the Museum. Overall, this does not affect the bottom line. Archives currently has a positive variance in wages of 11,952. Library - positive variance - 59,173 - the total provincial grant for 2005 has been received in July-116,739. Information Technologies - positive variance - 53,550 - licenses that were budgeted were not required in 2005. Also, purchased services will see some additional expenditures prior to year end. Ambulance Services - positive variance 154,332 - Elgin County received a grant in the amount of 41,822 to upgrade and enhance medical diagnostic and treatment equipment. This shows in the budget comparison as a positive variance in the Province of Ontario line and a negative variance in the operations line. The WSIB reserve has been reviewed and should have a small positive variance at year end. All other departments are reasonable. Recommendation: THAT the report titled Budget Comparison - October 31,2005 and dated November 28,2005 be received and filed. Respectfully Submitted ~~~ Director of Financial Services Approved for Submission ~~ Mark G. McDonald Chief Administrative Officer ---- COUNTY OF ELGIN Departmental Budget Comparisons For The 10 Periods Ending October 31, 2005 Total YTD YTD Variance %OF Budget Budget Actual () Budget Warden & Council Wages 168,274 140,228 126,201 14,028 Benefits 7,573 6,311 5,408 903 Operations 70,175 59,921 41,808 18,113 Total 246,022 206,460 173,416 33,044 70.49% Administrative Services Wages 249,750 208,125 201,502 6,623 Benefits 52,448 43,707 43,133 574 Operations 14,700 12,250 11,675 575 Total 316,898 264,082 256,310 7,772 80.88% Financial Services Wages 281,000 234,167 228,518 5,649 Benefits 67,440 56,200 54,891 1,309 Operations 17,151 14,293 10,160 4,132 Total 365,591 304,659 293,569 11,090 80.30% Human Resources Wages 322,279 268,566 243,664 24,902 Benefits 68,000 56,667 55,002 1,665 Operations 19,550 16,292 8,569 7,722 Total 409,829 341 ,524 307,235 34,289 74.97% Administration Building Wages 116,600 97,167 94,489 2,678 Benefits 30,300 25,250 22,819 2,431 Operations 74,300 61,917 27,730 34,186 Total 221,200 184,334 145,038 39,296 65.57% Corporate Expenditures Insurance 206,500 204,669 196,502 8,167 Telephone 33,000 27,500 19,552 7,948 Legal & Professional 87,000 72,500 75,094 {2,594 } Retiree Benefits 41,000 34,167 32,055 2,112 Other Expenditures 76,515 63,762 38,436 25,326 Total 444,015 402,598 361,639 40,959 81.45% Engineering Wages 245,000 204,167 201,772 2,394 Benefits 53,000 44,167 44,937 {770} Operations 82,000 68,334 48,201 20,132 Maintenance 2,276,259 1,715,945 1,710,695 5,250 Total 2,656,259 2,032,612 2,005,606 27,006 75.50% Agriculture Operations 31,876 26,563 16,482 10,081 Total 31,876 26,563 16,482 10,081 51.71% Elgin Manor Revenues {4, 169,961} {3,474,968} {3,549,358} 74,391 Wages 3,823,594 3,186,328 3,081,580 104,748 Benefits 1,005,216 837,680 816,444 21,236 Operations 911,144 759,287 615,134 144,153 Total 1,569,993 1,308,328 963,800 344,528 61.39% Terrace Lodge Revenues {4,627,251 } {3,856,043} {3,930,356} 74,314 Wages 3,928,883 3,274,069 3,234,775 39,295 Benefits 993,613 828,011 855,170 {27,159} Operations 917,741 764,785 637,802 126,983 Total 1,212,986 1,010,822 797,390 213,432 65.74% Bobier Villa Revenues (2,650,555) (2,208,796) (2,251,111 ) 42,315 Wages 2,611,848 2,176,540 2,200,890 (24,350) Benefits 608,993 507,494 516,228 (8,734) Operations 653,058 544,215 441,045 103,170 Total 1,223,344 1,019,453 907,052 112,401 74.15% Pioneer Museum Wages 56,553 47,128 55,656 (8,529) Benefits 11,672 9,727 11 ,500 (1,773) Operations 57,249 47,708 8,678 39,030 Total 125,474 104,562 75,834 28,728 60.44% Library Wages 1,028,272 856,893 832,771 24,122 Benefits 227,986 189,988 198,567 (8,579) Collections 227,500 189,583 195,696 (6,113) Operations 106,856 89,047 39,304 49,742 Total 1,590,614 1,325,512 1,266,339 59,173 79.61% Archives Wages 135,568 112,973 101,022 11,952 Benefits 27,606 23,005 20,086 2,919 Operations 45,900 38,250 37,699 551 Total 209,074 174,228 158,806 15,423 75.96% land Division Wages 54,345 45,288 43,012 2,275 Benefits 10,925 9,104 7,734 1,370 Operations (65,27OJ (54,3926 ~66,820~ 12,428 Total 16,074 16,074 0.00% Emergency Measures Wages 5,000 4,167 4,167 0 Benefits 1,300 1,083 1,083 0 Operations 11,800 9,833 3,419 6,415 Total 18,100 15,083 8,669 6,415 47.89% Information Technologies Wages 184,622 153,852 149,338 4,514 Benefits 48,002 40,002 33,695 6,307 Operations 318,862 265,718 222,989 42,729 Total 551 ,486 459,572 406,022 53,550 73.62% Provincial Offences Grant (75,900) (63,250) (41,303) (21,947) Fines Revenues (650,000) (541,667) (626,750) 85,084 Shared Revenues - Municipal 323,355 161,677 127,093 34,584 Wages 159,000 132,500 119,938 12,562 Benefits 33,500 27,917 27,998 (81 ) Operations 180,350 150,292 89,151 61,141 Total (29,695) (132,531) (303,874) 171,343 1023.32% Ambulance Services Province of Ontario (1,658,846) (1,382,372) (1,448,039) 65,667 City of St. Thomas (1,752,254) (1,460,212) (1,382,159) (78,053) Contractor Payments 5,828,740 4,857,283 4,659,979 197,304 Wages 63,650 53,042 52,074 968 Benefits 16,549 13,791 11,591 2,199 Operations 32,500 27,084 60,838 (33, 75~ Total 2,530,339 2,108,616 1,954,284 154,33 77.23% Collections Revenue (380,000) (316,667) (306,007) (10,659) Shared Revenues - Municipal 214,069 178,391 126,844 51,547 Wages 42,259 35,216 34,179 1,037 Benefits 10,565 8,804 9,086 (282) Operations 7,600 6,333 30,621 (24,288) Total (105,507) (87,923) (105,277) 17,355 99.78% REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Sonia Beavers, Purchasing Co-Ordinator DATE: December 5, 2005 SUBJECT: Mat Rental Service Agreement for the Elgin County Homes Introduction: The County of Elgin currently has a mat rental service agreement with Cintas. A 36 month agreement was signed in February 2002. There is a clause in the agreement that permitted the contractor to renew the agreement following the initial term and that the service would be automatically renewed for the same period of time. Discussion: Cintas was contacted to request current agreements, itemizing the current pricing for Terrace Lodge, Bobier Villa and Elgin Manor. As well, the request included a termination of service for all the agencies to conclude in 2010 at which time the service may be tendered. The current confirmed annual rates from Cintas for mat rental is as follows: Annual Rate GST included $ 1 063.40 1 026.74 $ 1 293.24 $ 3,383.38 In addition, there may be an annual escalating increase based on the Canadian Consumer Price Index. The customer has the right to reject any price increases and/or can terminate the agreement with a 90 day written notice. Conclusion: Cintas has been providing mat service rental to the Elgin County Homes since 2002 and past performance has been favourable. Regular mat exchange and maintenance is a component of risk management that minimizes the potential for injury. Mat service in the Homes is a risk management tool that addresses both risk of staff incidents/accidents(staff attempting to clean/move heavy mats), as well as the residents, visitors and staff due to 1 slip hazards of wet mats. The Administration Building has a custodial contractor that is responsible for mat cleaning. Recommendation: THAT, the Warden and CAO be authorized and directed to sign the agreement for mat rental service with Cintas for the County of Elgin Homes until November 30, 2010. Respectfully Submitted k (L &Cc<.....t {<')- Sonia Beavers Purchasing Co-Ordinator Approved for Submission *~ Director, Financ' 'ces Mark. aid Chief Administrative Officer 2 REPORT TO COUNCIL FROM: Allan Reitsma Director of Information Technologies DATE: December 1 , 2005 SUBJECT: County Phone System INTRODUCTION: The 2005 capital budget included $16,000 for replacement of the Administration Building telephone system. The current system is failing and the decision was made to replace the system. DISCUSSION: The current phone and voice mail system is no longer manufactured and new or refurbished replacement parts mayor may not be available. How long replacement parts could be found for the current phone system is unknown. In late 2004 the decision was made to replace the existing system with a new digital phone switch for an estimated cost of $16,000. The estimated replacement cost assumed that existing desktop phone sets would not be replaced and that a digital system would be used. Considering the fact that the current system has functioned for about 12 years before starting to fail it is safe to assume that a replacement system may last for that period of time as well. With this in mind staff conducted research to determine current telephony trends to ensure that the County was investing in technology that would meet the needs of the County for a minimum of the next 12 years. An excerpt from the November/December 2005 of the Government Purchasing Guide stated: "Over half of all private branch exchange (PBX) lines currently shipping are VolP [Voice over Internet Protocol] lines. By 2006, among new installations, VolP lines are projected to exceed the number of traditional telephone lines for both business and residential use. And by 2007, industry analyst firm Gartner expects 97 per cent of new phone systems installed in North America will be VolP or hybrid lines." (Voice over Internet Protocol: The technology used to transmit voice conversations over a data network using the Internet Protocol. Such data network may be the Internet or a corporate Intranet.) Further research and consultation with vendors support this trend. With this in mind vendors were asked to submit a proposal that would support both digital and VolP phone sets. As well, the Request for Proposal (RFP) asked respondents to consider a phone system that would incorporate the three Long Term Care (LTC) homes into the new phone system in the future. Although Elgin Manor has a fairly new telephone system, the systems at Bobier Villa and Terrace Lodge will reach their expected life span in five to sever years. Six vendors responded to the RFP: RMB Communications, Amtelecom, Delphi Solutions, Smiston Communications, J & D Communications and Branttel Networks. Each of the RFPs were evaluated on the following criteria: · Reusability of current equipment · Functionality (the replacement system must have as much if not more than the existing system) · Service & Support . Price Reusabilitv of Current Equipment All six vendors recommended a solution that included VoIP. The Nortel Business Communication Manager (BCM) solution, proposed by RMB, Delphi, Smiston and J & D and the Avaya solutions proposed by Branttel are capable of supporting both digital and VolP phones. The Asterisk solution proposed by Amtelecom supports only VolP phones and would require all desk sets to be replaced. Functionality All proposed solutions satisfied or exceeded the functional requirements set out in the RFP. Service & Support RMB Communications and Amtelecom are local, well-known vendors who have provided reliable Service to the County in the past. The selection committee felt that it was important to have a local provider that could provide a quick response for this critical service. Price The cost of a combined VolP and digital solution for the County administration offices is approximately $31,000 for a BCM solution. However, if and when it comes time to replace the systems at the LTC homes the cost could be as high as $195,000 for the BCM solution. The Asterisk solution proposed by Amtelecom will cost $34,0778 (includes taxes) to implement at the County administration building. However when and if the need comes to replace the LTC homes system the total cost is approximately $65,000. This makes the Amtelecom solution the system with the lower total cost. Amtelecom is providing a trade-in allowance of $1,300 for our current phone switch and desk sets. This will offset the cost of extending the phone cabling from the current location in the basement to the computer room on the second floor. The cost for this work is $1,027. Therefore the net cost for the phone system is $33,805. In addition to this capital investment there is an annual $1,400 licensing and maintenance fee. A leasing option was provided by Amtelecom as follows: 1 3 5 12 x $2,932.41 36 x $1,060.85 60 x $689.40 $35,188.92 $38,190.60 $41,364.00 The Amtelecom solution best meets all of the selection criteria. The Asterisk phone system proposed by Amtelecom is widely in use throughout the world and is the phone system being implemented at Amtelecom's headquarters. Amtelecom, as well as several other vendors, recommended the replacement of the network switch. The network switch is the device that routes network traffic between network devices (Le. computers, printer and in the future phones). The current HP 4801g1 network switch could support the VolP phones but does not have many of the features recommended to properly support combined data and voice networks. Some of the features include: . High-speed back-plane (provides faster through-put) . Layer 3 network routing capable of prioritizing network traffic . Virus detection · Power over Ethernet (PoE), this feature allows low voltage to be sent over a pair of strands in the network cable to power IP phones. Without PoE a power adapter would need to be purchased for each phone. · Many additional security features Three quotes were received for the HP 5308xl switch as follows: $19,434.92 $20,144.16 $21,633.48 A survey of eBay shows that the current switch could be sold on eBay from $2,400 to $4,000. CONCLUSION: Amtelecom is proposing a complete VolP solution and although the Amtelecom solution represents a higher initial investment the long term cost of the system is far less than the BCM solution proposed by other vendors. The Amtelecom solution fits current telephony trends and provides a cost effective option for replacing phone systems at the LTC homes in the future. As well, Amtelecom's past service performance to the County has been very satisfactory. The approved 2005 capital budget for the phone system is $16,000.00. The 2005 IT Special Projects are now completed and has approximately $60,000 remaining which will more than adequately cover any shortfall. RECOMMENDATION: THAT Amtelecom be awarded the contract to replace the telephone system at the County Administration Building at the bid price of $33,805. inclusive of taxes, and THAT the HP 4108g1 network switch be replaced with an HP 5308 xl network switch to be purchased from Protek Systems at the quoted price of $19,434.92. THAT the $16,000 for the new phone system be used from the phone system capital budget and the $37,239.92 variance paid for from the IT Special Projects capital budget. Respectfully Submitted :~n::i) ~ Chief Administrative Officer A E-.7L-- Allan Reitsma Director of Information Technologies REPORT TO COUNCIL FROM: Melissa Lewis, Elgin Manor Director of Senior Services DATE: December 6, 2005 SUBJECT: Influenza Vaccination Promotion in the Homes INTRODUCTION: The Elgin County Homes work in close co-operation with the Elgin-St. Thomas Health Unit in preparation for the influenza season and vaccination promotion. Each year, on- site inservices, promotion and influenza vaccination is provided within the Homes. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: Long-term care facilities in Ontario are required to keep on record proof of influenza vaccination for residents and staff. Elgin County Homes have collected and submitted to public health our initial influenza vaccination data for residents and staff for 2005/06. In order to show organizational support and provide an incentive for staff to receive their annual flu vaccine, we are asking Council consider for the 2005/06 year to provide a day away with pay for one staff member at each of the Homes. This would equate to a total of three days of paid time. In order for a staff member to be deemed eligible for the draw, the influenza vaccination must have been received and proof of vaccination submitted to the Home by January 1, 2006. RECOMMENDATION: THAT a draw be held at each of the County homes to select a total of three (3) staff members, who has provided proof of influenza vaccination by January 1, 2006 for the 2005/06 influenza season, to receive a day away from the workplace with pay. Respectfully Submitted Approved for Submission e~~~ Pat Vandevenne, Bobier Villa Director of Senior Services/ Manager of Resident Care ~J Chief Administrative Officer ~AlkIJ~r~ Rhonda L. Roberts, Terrace Lodge Director of Senior Services ~-;, ~~e issa Lewis, ~n M;n~~ Director of Senior Services REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL From: Rhonda L. Roberts-Director of Senior Services - TL Date: November 29,2005 Subject: Ministry of Health Annual Compliance Report-Follow-up Report INTRODUCTION: In April of 2005, the Ministry of Health Compliance Advisor identified unmet standards related to the pharmacy. Contract renewal for Pharmacy services have remained pending the acceptable correction of these unmet standards. DISCUSSION: Hills Pharmacy has been working diligently to ensure that the unmet standards were corrected, the last area being corrected effective November 1, 2005. On November 23, 2005, a follow-up review of these previously issued unmet standards was conducted. The Ministry has indicated in writing that all standards and criteria are now in compliance. During the Compliance Advisor's visit, two unmet standards, related to nursing documentation were issued. A Corrective Plan of Action has been forwarded to the Ministry. CONCLUSION: Terrace Lodge and the home's physicians continue to have a very positive relationship with Hills Pharmacy. As a result of the Ministry's follow-up visit, staff would like to contract with Hills Pharmacy to ensure ongoing provision of pharmacy service for Terrace Lodge residents. RECOMMENDATION: THAT the County of Elgin contract with Hills Pharmacy to provide pharmacy services to Terrace Lodge. THAT this report be accepted and filed. Respectfully Submitted tJlMiJ~ Rhonda L. Roberts Director of Senior Services, TL Approved for Mark Mc Chief Administrative Officer REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Pat Vandevenne Director of Senior Services/Manager of Resident Care DATE: December 6, 2005 SUBJECT: Ministry of Health Annual Review INTRODUCTION: Each year all Long-Term Care Homes throughout the province participate in an annual review process. DISCUSSION: During the week of October 24-28, Mrs. Lorell Jones, Compliance Advisor-South West Region, reviewed the Bobier Villa as related to the Ministry of Health Standards. CONCLUSION: The exit interview with Mrs. Jones revealed no unmet standards or discussion/observations. All staff of Bobier Villa were informed of this positive report. RECOMMENDATION: That the Warden write a Letter of Congratulations to the Bobier Home Staff. That this report be received and filed. Respectfully Submitted -RrL1--..rl.O J.{'l.A( - Pat Vandevenne . Director of Senior Services/ Manager of Resident Care Chief Administrative Officer REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Pat Vandevenne, Bobier Villa Director of Senior Services/Manager of Resident Care Melissa Lewis, Elgin Manor Director of Senior Services DATE: December 6, ~005 SUBJECT: 2005 Vacation Carry Forward Requests INTRODUCTION: Article 13.06 of the DNA Collective Agreement provides for registered nurses to request up to two (2) weeks of vacation to be carried forward into the first six (6) months of the following year. This request is subject to Employer approval, which will not be unreasonably denied. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: Council Policy states that at least once annually, an information report shall be presented to Council indicating the number of vacation carry-over requests submitted and granted by the Management Team. As per the current Collective Agreement with the Ontario Nurses' Association, three full-time DNA members, from Elgin Manor and Bobier Villa, have submitted a written request to carry forward a portion of their 2005 vacation entitlement into 2006, to be scheduled at a mutually agreeable time during the first six months of the 2006 calendar year. These were the only vacation carry-over requests received by all County departments and granted by the Management Team for 2005. RECOMMENDATION: THAT the report entitled "DNA 2005 Vacation Carry Forward" dated December 6, 2005 from the Director of Senior Services, Elgin Manor, and the Director of Senior Services/Manager of Resident Care, Bobier Villa, be received and filed. Respectfully Submitted APprove~~ /~ ...//~,. .. ----- Melissa LewIs, Elgin Manor Director of Senior Services Ma . McDonald / Chief Adrr)1nistFati.v.e"Offu;e~ /]~ L}::> ~ (,11-0-( -. h i Pat Vandevenne, Bobier Villa Director of Senior Services/ Manager of Resident Care REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Cathy Bishop, Director of Library Services DATE: November 28, 2005 SUBJECT: Reporting to the Public on Service Improvements and Barriers INTRODUCTION: Section 300 of the Municipal Act requires that municipalities provide notice to the public, at least once a year, on improvements in the efficiency and effectiveness of their service delivery. DISCUSSION: The report for 2005 to the Municipality Performance and Accountability Branch will be provided by Library Services and Archives through Financial Services. The Service Delivery reports are attached for Council's information. CONCLUSION: Section 300 of the Municipal Act requires that municipalities provide notice to the public, at least once a year, on improvements in the efficiency and effectiveness of their service delivery. RECOMMENDATION: For Council's Information. Respectfully Submitted ~~~ -- Cathy Bi op ~ Director of Library Services Mark . Chief Administrative Officer County of Elgin Service Improvements The County of Elgin continues to improve services for its residents. This report details how we have improved services in the area of Archives. What we have done differently: In November 2002, the County of Elgin established the Elgin County Archives to acquire, preserve and make publicly accessible records of the County, local municipalities and numerous private organizations, businesses and individuals. The Archives' plays a central role in promoting openness and accountability on behalf of the County government. In 2005, the County placed a strong emphasis on increasing public and staff accessibility to the Archives' collections through measures such as convenient reference room hours, an expanded Internet presence and electronic document management. Improvement in efficiency: Public usage of the Archives has increased each year since the Archives' establishment. In 2003, approximately 240 patrons visited the reference room for on-site research. In 2004, this number increased to 390 and in 2005 increased again to 425. The number of telephone and electronic mail inquiries have also shown similar increases, now ranging well over 2000 per year. Staff are also becoming more efficient in the acquisition of municipal records through records scheduling arid transfer agreements. In 2004, the records of one former municipality were transferred to the Archives with work begun on three others; in 2005 the records of three former municipalities were transferred with work begun on two others. Improvement in effectiveness: The Archives has been instrumental in the development of an electronic document management system for the County. In 2005, the first full year of the project, over 20,000 documents comprising nearly 120,000 pages were scanned, indexed and is to be made available to staff and the public through a searchable interface later in 2006. This will reduce the amount of staff time spent retrieving documents and will be an important tool in promoting public access to records such as Council minutes and by-laws. The Archives' website at www.eIQin.ca has also been an important tool in promoting public access to archival collections. Asearchable catalogue was launched late in 2004 with substantial content added in 2005. Visitor sessions (Le. sessions in which the user engaged a link) increased 142 per cent from 2004 to 2005, with total sessions now totaling over 46,000 per year. What barriers are there to further improvements? · Additional storage space will be required to accommodate future acquisitions. · Lack of resources to promote on-site and virtual access to archival collections to the disabled, particularly individuals who are visually impaired. · Resources to link archival collections with similar heritage collections held by the Elgin County Library and Elgin County Museum. County of Elgin Service Improvements (Physical Appearance) The County of Elgin continues to improve services for its residents. This report details how we've improved services in the area of Library Services. What we have done differently: The Elgin County Library undertook in 2005 to improve the interior physical appearance of the Port Stanley branch. The 3-fold purpose of the project was to make the library setting a very warm and welcoming place for the large number of retirees who dwell in the community; create a more open concept space to make it easier for staff to observe activities throughout the library; develop a more prominent space for the public access computers. · Public access computers moved to alcove across from circulation desk. New adjustable desks and chairs purchased. · Walls painted; new carpet laid · Comfortable seating area with electric fireplace created for reading. · New reception desk with one lowered section installed. Improvement in efficiency: Staff monitoring of the public access computers can be more easily achieved because of the new location. The furnishings were arranged with a more open concept look which creates more efficiency for staff as they can more readily get from one area to another. Staff have a better view of a larger area of the library and therefore do not have as great a need to leave the reception desk to supervise the library . Improvement in effectiveness: The new reading area has received rave reviews from people who have used it. The location of the computers has made it much easier to monitor computer activity. What barriers are there to further improvements? The space for the Library branch is rented and therefore further improvements are limited. County of Elgin Service Improvements (On-Line Services) The County of Elgin continues to improve services for its residents. This report details how we've improved services in the area of Library Services. What we have done differently: The goal of the Elgin County Library is to keep the library as an active and current institution to serve the 21st century. In order to serve a society that now shops, banks and communicates on-line, the Elgin County Library made a decision to gradually allow library users to do more activities remotely. This has been accomplished by migrating to library circulation software, which has an internet interface, which allows users to do the following activities remotely: . Check their account . Renew materials . Place materials on hold; check their place in the holds queue . Request items for inter-library loan . Request reference help for a certain topic . Suggest that a certain item be ordered Library users can access a collection of electronic books through a link on the library's website. The Library website at www.librarv.eIQin-countV.on.ca has also been an important tool in promoting public access to our collections. The library has also acquired the remote access feature for several of its on-line reference resources such as: World Book, Ebscohost, Novelist, and Search Portfolio. Improvement in efficiency: At this point there has not been any noticeable savings in staff time because extra time has been needed to prepare information pamphlets and provide instruction on the new features. Many library users however have commented on how great the new services are since they free up time that users previously would have spent in coming to the library building. Improvement in effectiveness: There has been a steady increase in the number of users that have accessed the on-line services. Comments from the public have been very positive. What barriers are there to further improvements? Providing these services on-line requires an annual outlay for software maintenance or renewal of subscriptions. Without decreasing the budget in some area, it is difficult to keep adding to the resources which are presently in place. County of Elgin Services Improvements (Accessibility) The County of Elgin continues to improve services for its residents. This report details how we've improved services in the area of Library Services. What we have done differently: The Library Services Department of the County of Elgin has improved accessibility in several areas in many of their branch libraries with the intention to extend the project to encompass all the branches. The goal is to provide barrier- free access to those with physical disabilities and make the library a more welcoming place for them. The following areas have been addressed: · Reception desks replaced with ones with lower end. · Adjustable computer desks for public access workstations. · Narrower shelving plus total rearrangement of shelving to allow for wheelchairs to turn. Improvement in efficiency: The old reception desks have been or will be replaced with ones that have the one end lowered to enable those in wheelchairs to place their materials directly on the circulation desk. This enables the librarians to provide service to those in wheelchairs at a level that is more user friendly for them. Providing service this way is also more efficient for the librarians as they no longer have to move from behind the reception desk to serve patrons in wheelchairs. Adjustable computer desks have been purchased for the public access workstations. This frees up staff time as the users are now able to use the computers without requiring help from the staff. Improvement in effectiveness: Library users who have need for specialized furnishings have commented that they appreciate the improvements. More than any tangible benefit, they appear to appreciate the attitude of caring which has been shown by the implementation of these changes. What barriers are there to further improvements? Because some of our branches are small, in order to accommodate the usually bulkier furnishings, some shelving units and hence books and other library materials must be sacrificed to make room. REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Brian Masschaele, Manager of Archives Cathy Bishop, Director of Library Services DATE: 28 November 2005 SUBJECT: Elgin County Museum By-law INTRODUCTION Staff convened a successful information session for County museums on November 9th, 2005. This report recommends that a draft by-law to govern the future operations of the Elgin County Museum now be formally adopted. A nomination procedure for the new Advisory Committee is also proposed. DISCUSSION: Approximately 20 delegates attended an information session to discuss the draft governing by-law and facility plans for the Elgin County Museum. These documents were initially presented to County Council on September 27th, 2005. The following museums were represented at this meeting: . Edison Museum of Vienna . Port Burwell Marine Museum . Aylmer & District Museum . The Dairy & Heritage Museum, Malahide . The Elgin County Railway Museum . Forge and Anvil Museum, Sparta . Backus-Page House, Tyrconnell . The Rodney Jail Delegates expressed strong support for the County's future plans for the museum. As a result, no further amendments to the draft by-law are required and staff now recommend that it be formally adopted. Upon the adoption of the by-law, Council will need to establish a procedure for nominations to the new Advisory Committee. Staff recommend that those organizations with standing representation on the committee forward their nominations in writing by February 1st, 2005. Staff furthermore recommend that Council publicly advertise for the at-large member and the member on behalf of the museum community with the same deadline. Staff will then review all nominations and bring forward a list of candidates for Council's approval. It is hoped that the Advisory Committee can be formed by March 2006, well in advance of the Museum's grand opening. CONCLUSION: Staff recommend that the Elgin County Ml,.!~~um's new governing by-law be formally adopted and th~t staff begin the process of recruiting members for the new Advisory Committee. RECOMMENDATION: THAT the by-law entitled "A By-law to provide for the operation of the Elgin County Museum" be formally adopted; AND THAT Council advertise for nominations to the Elgin County Museum Advisory Committee for the at-large member and the member on behalf of the museum community with a deadline of February 1S\ 2006. Respectfully Submitted G~ '&~-4 Cathy Bis ~:my:s Bnan Masschaele Manager of Archives . sion Ma Chief Administrative Officer /o~- - A REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Dianne Palmer, Manager of Library Services Cathy Bishop, Director of Library Services DATE: November 28, 2005 SUBJECT: Trillium Foundation and CAP grants received in 2005 INTRODUCTION The Elgin County Library has applied for and received grant money from both the Trillium Foundation Organization and Industry Canada's Community Access Program during 2005. DISCUSSION Staff decided to take advantage of the fact that the Trillium Foundation was now permitting libraries to apply for grant funding. Applications were submitted for the following branches: Belmont and Springfield: Automatic door openers. Dutton: Furnishings and fixtures for the children's area. Shedden: Listening centre and items to enhance the children's programming. In November, staff were pleased to hear that the library had received the following amounts in funding from the Trillium Foundation: Belmont: $4,100 Springfield: $2,400. Shedden: $1,700. Dutton: $4,700. For several years now the Library has applied for and received funding from Industry Canada for sustaining the computer equipment at the CAP sites and for hiring youth workers to train and assist the public in using the internet and software programs at our CAP sites. For the 2005-2006 term, staff received notification that we had been approved for $26,600 in sustainability funding to purchase computer equipment and supplies to maintain the CAP workstations in the branches. The Library also received $29,370 in funding from Industry Canada to hire 7 youth workers for a period of 420 hours each. 2 CONCLUSION The Letter of Agreement with the Trillium Foundation has been signed by the Warden for the four projects. Once the funding is received, staff will proceed with the enjoyable task of spending the money as outlined in the agreement. The Community Access Program Sustainability Agreement has been signed and returned. Planned purchasing of the computer equipment will take place in conjunction with the IT Director. Seven youth workers have already been hired through the CAP Youth Employment grant and are busy training the public in computer skills. RECOMMENDATION Ma 0 Chief Administrative Officer ~~ Cathy Bis p Director of Library Services MEMORANDUM DATE: December 1, 2005 TO: COUNTY COUNCIL AND SENIOR MANAGEMENT TEAM FROM: L. ANDRUSIAK, AMBULANCE & EMERGENCY MGT. COORDINATOR SUBJECT: London Central Ambulance Communications Centre (CACC) Tour At the November 22, 2005 Council Meeting, Council requested a tour of the London CACC. The date of January 10, 2006 was provided to staff for this tour. This Memo is to inform County Council and the Senior Management Team that a tour has been organized. The particulars are below: WHAT: Tour of London Central Ambulance Communications Centre (CACC) WHEN: Tuesday, January 10, 2006 TIME: 1 :30 p.m. WHERE: 1510 Woodcock St., Suite 20, London (519-661-1780) Directions: CACC is located near the intersection of Hyde Park and Fanshawe in London. Driving North on Hyde Park, (before reaching Fanshawe) Turn left onto Seagull (which is across from the Wal-Mart entrance) Turn left onto Blue Heron, Turn right onto Woodcock and go to the second driveway on your left for parking REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Linda B. Veger, Director of Financial Services DATE: December 13, 2005 SUBJECT: Mileage Reimbursement - 2006 INTRODUCTION/DISCUSSION: A change to Human Resources Policy 10.50 - Mileage is included in this Council Agenda. If approved, the policy recommends that the annual kilometric rate will be the same as that established each year by the Treasury Board of Canada. The rate will remain constant for the entire 2006 year and will be adjusted each December thereafter for the following year. The new rate established by the Treasury Board effective December 5, 2005 is $.47/kilometre. RECOMMENDATION: THAT the report titled Mileage Reimbursement - 2006 and dated December 13, 2005 be received and filed. Respectfully Submitted ~(~ Linda B. Veger Director of Financial Services REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL From: Mark G. McDonald, Chief Administrative Officer. Date: December 12, 2005 Subject: Annual Staff Appreciation Gift INTRODUCTION: The Management Team has discussed various ways of recognizing employees and their value to the Corporation with a tangible keepsake. Traditionally, most corporations adopt the practice of providing employees with an annual appreciation gift at the Holiday Season. This is an excellent means of acknowledging staff for their efforts and positive contributions throughout the year. DISCUSSION: The Management staff has researched several companies who produce employee appreciation gifts. A teamwork theme pocket calendar, with the County of Elgin logo, can be purchased at a cost of $2.59 each, exclusive of tax. The employees of the County of Elgin would very much appreciate this form of acknowledgement, especially coming from the Warden and Council. A personalized thank you would send a positive message of appreciation from you for their on-going efforts and dedication. CONCLUSION/RECOMMENDA TION: THAT, Council directs staff to purchase an annual appreciation gift for County employees and said gifts be allocated from the Corporate Recognition Account. ALL of which is respectfully submitted, Mark G. Mc , Chief Administrative Officer on behalf of the Management Team. CORRESPONDENCE - DECEMBER 15. 2005 Items for Consideration 1. G. Sosnoski, General Manager of Corporate Services and City Clerk, City of Kitchener, with a resolution asking that the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing commission an objective review of the results of amalgamations in Ontario relative to the principle of affordability, accountability and political accessibility. (ATTACHED) 2. Mayor George J. MacDonald, Town of Midland, with a. resolution requesting the. Province end its downloading of provincial programs and begin the uploading of provincial program costs back to the province. (ATTACHED) 3. Denise Labelle-Gelinas, City Clerk, City of Cornwall, with a resolution requesting discussions with AMO and the Province on appropriate statutory amendments to direct arbitrations that would take into account ability to pay and local economic conditions in decisions pertaining to labour relations. (ATTACHED) 4. Paul Sutherland, Consultant, on behalf of the Ontario dairy, egg and poultry farmers "FarmGate5", with an information pamphlet and resolution requesting support for the preservation of supply management for Canada's dairy, poultry and egg farmers; processors; and consumers. (ATTACHED) 5. Karen Landry, Clerk Town of Halton Hills, with a resolution requesting support for the Office of the Ombudsman of Ontario's investigation into the fairness and transparency of the valuation of properties by the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation. (ATTACHED) 6. Township of South Algonquin, with a resolution requesting an extension to the 2005 moratorium on assessment increases to be extended throughout the 2006 taxation year, in order to allow for the investigation to be completed by the Ontario Ombudsman into the Current Value Assessment system and the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (ATTACHED) 7. AMO Member Communication "ALERT", re: "Bill 123 - The Transparency in Public Matters Act Recommended for Third Reading". (ATTACHED) ) Corporate Services Departtnent I<:itchener City Hall, 2nd Floor 200 I<:ing Street West, P.O. Box 1118 I<:itchener, ON N2G 4G7 Phone: 519.741.2286 Fax: 519.741.2705 derks@city.kitchener.on.ca K November 10, 2005 To All Municipalities in Ontario: This is to advise that Kitchener City Council, at its regular meeting held on November 7, 2005, passed the following resolution: "That the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, on behalf of Ontario municipalities, commission an objective review of the results of amalgamations in Ontario relative to the principles of affordability, accountability and political accessibility with a view to determining the financial, service and other benefits and / or drawbacks of amalgamations; and, That the review include the impact, as outlined above, on services such as transit and garbage collection which were merged or uploaded to the Regional Municipality of Waterloo by the area Municipalities; and, That it is intended the above review would address practical as well as theoretical issues and with an emphasis on the perception and experience of the broader public as opposed to only elected officials and administrators; and further, That this resolution be circulated to the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) and all municipalities in Ontario requesting their support." Yours truly, G. Sosnoski General Manager of Corporate Services & City Clerk c: Association of Municipalities of Ontario . . (f)ffi.c.e uf th,e ~a:llnr 'mnfun uf ~ii:rIa:n.a NoveJ;llber 17, 2005 The Hon. D. McGuinty Premier of Ontario Room 381, Legislative Building Toronto, ON M7 A lA4 Dear Premier McGuinty: Re: The Provincial Municipal Fiscal Gap It is high time that the Province make gbOd on its promise of a better working relationship with the municipalities. . .' . , Ontario Municipalities are left in the unenviable position of having the highest property taxes in' the Comitry. . The reason for this cari directly be attributed to the downloading of what should remain in the Provincial mandate, namely health and social service programs. As well, the downloading of thousands ' of kilometers of previously Provincial'highways has not helped; The imposition of court security costs has not helped. For many m!lnicipalities, the conditional program of COMRIF has not helped with its inconsistency of "eligibility" requirements. For many municjpalities, the incredibly inequitable application of OMPF has not helped. For many municipalities, the lack of funding support for policing has not helped noting again, an inconsistency of application. The plethora of increasing regulations and Provincially ordered reporting requirements in almost all spheres of services has not helped as it leads to mote significant costs in meeting those' regulations and requirements. Many charges and resulting fines by the Ministry of the Environment on municipalities striving hard to meet the new regulatory regime have not helped. When it comes to "partnerships" and an improved Municipal-Provincial relationship, the MOE appears only as an enforcement agency with municipalities as their "whipping posts" in the quest for safe drinking water. We do applaud, finally, the provision of gas tax revenues although there are strings attached and we cannot lower our tax rate using this revenue. Municipalities need a "new deal" from the Province and the "uploading" of services in the health and social service fields would be a good start. To this end we have enclosed Council's resolution being distributed to all municipalities for support. It certainly reflects the position of AMO who have repeatedly expressed concern over the Provincial~Municipal fiscal gap. We look forward to your response and one that, hopefully, leads to closing that gap. Yours truly, THE CORPORATlO?JWN OF MIDLAND /~~/ 7?/.' ~p . George J. MacDonald Mayor c.c. Ontario Municipalities Association of Mun icipal ities of nnPl~iP.ominio.n Avenue ~1lItlri~ Ontano L4R 1 R2 Mr. G. Dunlop, MPP, Simcoe Nrmre:526-4275 Fax:526-9971 mayor@town.midland.on.ca www.town.midland.on.ca The Corporation of the Town of Midland Resolution No. 2005~242 October 24. 2005 Moved by.. ................................................... S_by..~~~ THAT the Province of Ontario be requested to end its continued downloading of provincial programs and use of inunicipal property tax dollars for the subsidization of provincial health and social services programs; and THAT the Provincial Government work with the Association of Municipalities of Ontario to develop a plan to begin the uploading of provincial program costs back to where they belong, And further, that a copy of )his resolution be forwarded to AMO, all Ontario Municipalities and local M.P.P.s for support. For: ................ Against: ............... ~ ... ................. ................. .................. Carried ................ .........;;;;;00 ................ ............................................. OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK Bureau de la Secretaire Municipale .... Corn\IVall Ontario . Canada www.city.comwall.on.ca P.O. Box / C.P. 877 360 rue Pitt Street Cornwall, Ontario K6H 5T9 Phone (613) 932-6252 Fax (613) 932-8145 Denise Labelle-Gelinas City Clerk / Secretaire municipale (613) 930-2787, ext.2537 E-Mail dqelinas@citv.comwall.on.ca Manon Poirier Acting Deputy Clerk / Secreta ire municipale adjointe par interim Administrative Assistant / Assistante administrative (613) 930-2787 ext 2316 E-Mail mpoirier@citv.comwall.on.ca November 22,2005 Dear Sirs: To all municipalities ; '. . .. ,". . The Council of The Co... rpora.....tio. n9f the City of CQmW.8.. II, at its regular meeting o.f Monday, November 14,2005, endorsed the enclpsed Resolution.... ..... . . ....." ,", . .... We believe that past and current Interest Arbitration awards imposing new and additional costs, such as retention pay for police, will cause undui3.finanCial hardship tosmaller municipalities. "-', " . ..... . We invite you to joil) us in.. petitioning the Province. of Ontario to make appropriate statutory amendments to more specifjeallydirect interest arbitrators to takeint08ccount the ability to pay and the local economic conditions in its decisions pertaining to labourrelations. Thank you for your attention. Respectfully, THE CORPORATION OF THE CITY OF CORNWALL ~'7f~~ DENISE LABELLE-GELINAS, C.M.O. CITY CLERK DLG/mp Enclosure Growth ~ Prosperity ~ Quality of Life .. Progres ~ Prosperite ~ Qualite de vie RESOLUTION The Council of the Corporation of the City of Cornwall Resolution number: Date: Moved by Councillor: Seconded by Councillor: NB-1 November 14, 2005 Naresh Bhargava Glen Grant Interest Arbitration WHEREAS past and current Interest Arbitration awards imposing new and additional costs, such as retention pay for police, will cause undue financial hardship to smaller municipalities; and NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT AMO initiate discussions with the Province of Ontario to make appropriate statutory amendments to more specifically direct interest arbitrators to take into account ability to pay and local economic conditions in their decisions pertaining to labour relations; and NOW THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT this motion be forwarded to all municipalities of Ontario seeking their support and our local MPP, Mr. Jim Brownell, to the Attorney General, the Minister of Labour; and furthermore, that all municipalities be requested to demonstrate their support by sending similar resolutions to the Attorney General and Minister of Labour, with a copy returned to the City, urging that they review this matter. I, Denise Labelle-Gelinas, City Clerk of The Corporation of the City of Cornwall, do hereby certify that the above is a true copy of Resolution Number NB-1 enacted by Council on the 14th day of November, 2005. Eggs ( "'~.i\ ~ Chicken Farmers of Ontario BY FAX November 18,2005 James Mcintyre Warden County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 5V1 Fax: 519-633-7661 Dear Warden Mcintyre, Please find enclosed a resolution supported by the dairy, egg and poultry farmers of Ontario. We would appreciate your Council adopting this resolution at the next council meeting and forwarding the adopted resolution to The Honourable Andy Mitchell, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food; The Honourable Jim Peterson, Minister of International Trade and Prime Minister Paul Martin in advance of the Sixth WTO Ministerial Conference to be held in Hong Kong, China, 13 - 18 December 2005. Municipalities across Ontario are adopting this resolution in an effort to ensure that Canada's supply-managed system for Ontario dairy, poultry and egg farms is preserved at WTO. Supply management, a uniquely Canadian success story, avoids the 'boom and bust' cycles that often wreak havoc in other agriculture sectors by ensuring a steady supply of product to the consumer at affordable prices. It is vital that Ontario's dairy, egg and poultry industries be preserved in order to ensure that Ontarians continue to have stable access to high-quality and nutritious food. Sincerely, ~b Paul Sutherland Consultant Encl. Resolution to stand up for Ontario's dairy, poultry and egg farmers by supporting the preservation of supply management "WHEREAS Ontario dairy, poultry and egg farmers are part of a supply- managed system that matches production to Canadian demand; and WHEREAS supply management is a 'uniquely Canadian success story' with a solid 40-year track record of providing high-quality and nutritious food for Canadians; and, WHEREAS the dairy, poultry and egg industries are a major economic asset to Ontario generating $2.6 billion in farm cash receipts; sustaining more than $14 billion in economic activity with over 70,000 Ontario jobs depending on supply management; and WHEREAS Canada's food supply and Canada's farms may be at risk of being traded away during the World Trade Organization's Doha Round of negotiations continuing with the Sixth WTO Ministerial Conference to be held in Hong Kong, China, 13-18 December 2005; and WHEREAS dairy, poultry and egg farmers and Federal and Provincial governments have worked together to create a stable and equitable economic environment that benefits every link in the food chain including consumers and farmers; and WHEREAS Canada's economic fabric, both rural AND urban, would unravel without supply management; and NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the city (region, county, town) of (Municipality) supports the preservation of supply management for Canada's dairy, poultry and egg farmers; processors; consumers and other Canadians who depend on a vibrant farm economy; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT this resolution be forwarded to The Honourable Andy Mitchell, The Honourable Jim Peterson and Prime Minister Paul Martin requesting that they preserve supply management at the WTO trade table; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT this resolution be forwarded to the Association of Municipalities of Ontario and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities to request that they similarly voice their support for supply management by forwarding a resolution to The Honourable Andy Mitchell, The Honourable Jim Peterson and Prime Minister Paul Martin requesting that they preserve supply management at the WTO trade table." Dec-02-2005 04:38pm From- T-762 P.001/010 F-7l2 ~ FarmGate5 . From our home to yours. ~~. ~ Clllrkt:n 1~l(fJl{;f.;ol()lllarl" ~ . ON"rAJIIO TU_KIlY o;Q;-~ ~. BY FAX December 2, 2005 Warden James Mcintyre and Members of Council County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St Thomas (Ontario) N5R 5V1 Fax: 519-633-766"' Dear Warden James McIntyre and Members of Council, Re: r'~solution for the preservation of Ontario's dairy, egg & poultry farmers' supply management marketing system Further to the lettE~r sent to you by Paul Sutherland, acting on behalf of Ontario dairy, egg and poultry farmers also known as FarmGate5, dated November 18, 2005, and the accompanying resolution that we've requested your council to adopt, I am enclosing two brochures - FarmGate5 "From our home to yours" and "The BI:Jttom Line What's at Stake?" for your information. In order to facilitate your decision-making, the brochures will provide you with additional background information regarding the supply management marketing system that will be on the negotiating table at the WTO conference in Hong Kong, China, referenced in the above-mentioned letter. The outcome of these negotiations will not only directly impact the livelihood of Ontario farmers, but every link in the food chain including processors and Consumers. For forty years, our uniquely Canadian farm marketing system has been providing a reliable supply of the highest quality and safest food for all Canadians. For your ease of reference, I am also re-attaching the resolution we would like your council to endorse_ Should you have allY questions please feel free to contact Paul Sutherland at (416) 413-4730. I would appreciate it if you could forward any notice of deCision respecting the resolution to the attention of Mr. Sutherland at: FarmGate 5 cIa 160 Bloor Street East, Suite 700 Toronto (Ontario) M4W 3P7 Thank you once again for your assistance. Sincerely, '~JI~ Carolynne Griffith FarmGate5 Spokesperson cc Paul Sutherlancl Mary Di Mambn:> - assistant Ene!. · 160 Bloor Street East, Suite 700 . Toronto (Ontario) M4W 3P7 . Dec-02-2005 04:39pm ~ .- ca "Ci U) ("0. "0 tn ,- CD ta'i: "'1i) C ::I 0"0 CD C ~.~ rn,~ != a:, 0 ,Q" >''1:1 ..cl C 3:11 (IS ~ CP tn E >. lU ~= ~ "'rg- ~~~ _ cr;;J. - O'J rJ) :::I s::; I.., 0._ 0 Q,-g od I:\'l rJ) CP .! ~--g "'. ~ .- .- ... lIJ ca"l:"a -gO:::l rJ) 3: tn "0 CP 0 'i: 3:! s:: B>.c s::e~ o Q.,:: From- UQj' ~ (lit ~ ~, ~ (tl; ~ ~Ii~ E:~ .~ L. C u:<<J1 ~ ,d::; ~i~ ,~~~ _1. >. '.' It: ca u_. tJ. o.s:::.... r .t!J;-"_'rJ:IC ~......c ..c; 4l"lbi:2O,l:'!!!'{'fJ~(I) C) ..c:':r::' (D"O I- 0.-:....;:1 Cl .~ -.. 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Let's take a look at some typical menu items: iIIt iml2~t~!~~ December 2,2005 Municipalities of Ontario Dear Council: Please be advised that Council for the Town of Halton Hills at its meeting of Monday, November 28, 2005 adopted the following: WHEREAS on October 17, 2005 the Ombudsman for Ontario announced an investigation into whether the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) valuing of properties is fair and transparent; AND WHEREAS on October 18, 2005 the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation stated it is willing to work with the Ombudsman for Ontario to identify and deal with any issues or concerns regarding the assessment process; AND WHEREAS the Council for the Town of Halton Hills is on record as having concerns regarding the accuracy, fairness, and transparency of the assessment process; AND WHEREAS the Council for the Town of Halton Hills has received numerous comments, complaints and concerns from residents including many seniors on fixed incomes, within the municipality regarding the fairness of the assessment of their properties and their ability to pay their property taxes due to dramatic increases in the assessed values of their properties; AND WHEREAS Halton Hills is recognized as a very diverse community of urban, Industrial, rural residential (including hamlets ), agriculture. These same residents may face restrictive measures such as Niagara Escarpment, three Conservation Agency Guidelines and the new Green Belt policy; AND WHEREAS the Council for the Town of Halton Hills and Regional Municipality of Halton are on record as being willing to be part of a pilot project to test other models / sources for the delivery of property assessment services; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE COUNCIL FOR THE TOWN OF HALTON HILLS fully supports the efforts of the Ombudsman of Ontario in the review of the fairness and transparency of the property assessment system as administered by the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation; AND FURTHER THAT the Town forward a letter to the Office of the Ombudsman of Ontario indicating its support for the investigation into the fairness and transparency of the valuation of properties by the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation; AND FURTHER THAT a copy of this resolution be forwarded to all other municipalities in the Province of Ontario asking that they also indicate their support for the investigation into the fairness and transparency of the valuation of properties by the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation; AND FURTHER THAT a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Premier of Ontario, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, local Members of the Provincial Parliament (MPP), the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC), and the Association of the Municipalities of Ontario (AMO). The Town of Halton Hills respectfully requests support for this resoluti~n from all Ontario municipalities. Karen Landry, Clerk Town of Halton Hills 1 Halton Hills Drive Halton Hills, ON L 7G 5G2 Phone: 905-873-2601 x2331 Fax: 905-873-1431 Email: leesae@haltonhills.ca Township of South Algonquin P.O. Box 240 MADA WASKA, Ontario KOJ 2CO Telephone #1-613-637-2650 Fax #1-613-637-5368 Dated: November 3. 2005 Resolution No. 05-318 Moved by: Councillor G. Belisle Seconded by: Councillor P. Bresnahan WHEREAS municipalities in Ontario are strapped with a Current Value Assessment (CV A) system that has created outrageous spikes in asse"ssment, some over 100% and these unprecedented hikes in assessment will translate into corresponding increases in taxes for the portion of assessment that is in excess of the average increase in any given municipality. WHEREAS municipalities are at a loss to adequately analyze the full impact of the new property assessments by only receiving the new Assessment Roll in mid-December while the majority of the 2006 assessments are in the hands of ratepayers by mid-October. WHEREAS the criterion of realty sales for establishing new assessments each year is very volatile; very frivolous; very unfair and very unpredictable and there is no correlation between the severe tax increases generated by many of these assessments and the provision of municipal services which remain virtually unchanged from year to year. WHEREAS the Provincial Government froze the 2004 Assessment Roll for the 2005 taxation year in response to cries of outrage stemming from a flawed Current Value Assessment system, yet the proposed Assessment Roll for the 2006 taxation year will create even more hardship than that generated at the time of the freeze. WHEREAS Ontario's municipalities deserve immediate, as well as long term relief from a "broken" assessment system that is failing all areas of this province. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Provincial Ombudsman Andre Marin, who has launched a full investigation into the Current Value Assessment system and the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation, be urged to recommend to Premier Dalton McGuinty an immediate short term solution whereby the 2005 moratorium on assessment increases would be extended through the 2006 taxation year. This "freeze" would also allow more time for MP AC to replace their 30-year old computer system for a new Integrated Property System that is scheduled for implementation before the end of 2006. BE IT ALSO RESOLVED that both Ombudsman Andre Marin and Premier Dalton McGuinty recognize that the Provincial Government should undertake a systemic review of CV A during the 2006 moratorium period in order to develop and implement a more equitable; a more stable, and a more transparent assessment system. BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that all 445 municipalities as well as A.M.O. and R.O.M.A. receive this resolution and be requested to endorse it as soon as possible and forward a copy of their endorsement to Ombudsman Andre Marin (Fax: 1-866-863-2560) and Premier Dalton McGuinty (Fax: 416-325-3745)." Carried by: Mavor J. Etmanski T ownshipofSouthAlgonquin@bancom.net Member Communication L.'\. .- " .........1 ~, Association of , / Municip~lities ,.. '^.../ of Ontano rt 393 University Avenue, Suite 1701 Toronto, ON M5G 1E6 Tel: (416) 971-9856 . fax: (416) 971-6191 email: amo@amo.on.ca To the immediate attention of the Clerk and Council December 7,2005 - Alert 05/090 Bill 123 - The Transparency in Public Matters Act Recommended for Third Reading Issue: Private Member's Bill 123 has been recommended for Third Reading without the amendments requested by AMO and other municipal representatives. AMO Position: AMO supports the principles of open, transparent and accountable municipal governments, but does not support this Bill. The content of this legislation counters AMO's work under the Municipal Act review and its work to establish a mature provincial/municipal relationship. AMO believes that these important matters should be discussed in the context of the current Municipal Act review and considered by the Legislature when it debates a new Municipal Act. To consider these matters outside of this process cannot be supported. AMO sought to have municipal organizations exempted from this legislation if it proceeds. Immediate Action - How You Can Be Involved: It is important for the municipal sector to be heard on this issue. AMO recommends that municipalities contact their local MPP requesting that they not support this legislation when it comes to a vote. As a Private Member's bill, the vote is usually a free vote where the political parties are not whipped. Challenges with Bill 123: If Bill 123 is passed in its current form and does not exempt municipalities, it will result in conflicts with the Municipal Act. The following are a few examples of duplication and overlap that will challenge implementation and create confusion for administration, councils and the public, as they need to deal with two pieces of legislation if this Private Member's bill is passed: · Definitions of meetings in Bill 123 differ from that of the Municipal Act · Notice provisions in Bill 123 are much more prescriptive than what is being advocated for the Municipal Act. AMO and others have sought more flexibility for municipalities to determine when and how they give notice to best meet the needs of their residents. This could have resource implications for municipalities. · Bill 123 places additional restrictions on holding closed meetings. In the Municipal Act review, AMO and others are looking for greater flexibility to hold strategic planning, briefing sessions, professional development, outside "meeting" definition. · Bill 123 and the Municipal Act differ on the aspect of minute taking. Under the Municipal Act, the requirement for minute taking only requires recording decisions, resolutions and proceedings of council. Bill 123 would require the recording of all comments made in council - this would have resource implications for municipalities. This information is available in the Policy Issues section ofthe AMO website at www.amo.on.ca For more information, contact 416-971-9856: Sherri Hanley, Senior Policy Advisor, extension 315 CORRESPONDENCE - DECEMBER 15, 2005 Items for Information (Consent Aaenda) 1. J.E. Okrucky, Manager, Operations London/Sarnia District, Union Gas, with information regarding natural gas prices and steps being taken to educate consumers on how to protect themselves from higher energy prices. (ATTACHED) 2. Federation of Canadian Municipalities, Members' Advisory, "Impact of an Early Election on Federal Transfers for Municipalities. (ATTACHED) 3. Hon. John Gerretsen, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, acknowledging Council's resolution concerning Private Members Bill 123 the Transparency in Public Matters Act. 4. Hon. Mike Colle, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, announcing the Canada- Ontario Immigration Agreement to provide programs to meet the needs of immigrants in regions across the province. (ATTACHED) 5. AMO Member Communication ALERT: 1) "Ontario Association of Non-Profit Homes and Services for Seniors Calls on Government to Fulfill Election Promise"; 2) "Government Introduces Source Protection Bill". (ATTACHED) AMO Member Communication "FOR YOUR INFORMATION": 1) Environment Canada Accepting Applications for Funding Under the Invasive Alien Species Program. (ATTACHED) 6. Correspondence supporting County Council's resolution of non support for Bill 206 "An Act to Revise the Ontario Municipal Retirement System Act": (ATTACHED) 1) Dianne Wilson, Deputy Clerk, Municipality of Central Elgin 2) R. Millard, C.A.O./Clerk, Township of Malahide 3) Phyllis Ketchabaw, Clerk, Town of Aylmer 4) Tena Michiels, Deputy Clerk, Township of Southwold 7. Hon. John Gerretsen, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, acknowledging County Council's correspondence concerning Bill 206, An Act to Revise the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System Act. (ATTACHED) 8. Donald Leitch, Chief Administrative Officer, Municipality of Central Elgin, with copy of correspondence to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing regarding the restructuring proposal involving the Municipality of Central Elgin, City of St. Thomas, and County of Elgin. (ATTACHED) 9. Chuck Raven, Partner, Raven & Shaw, advising that the firm has been engaged by the County of Elgin to audit the financial statements for the year ending December 31,2005 and that auditing standards (GAAS) have been met. (ATTACHED) 10. Michael S. Raymond, Warden, County of Essex and Chair, Western Wardens' Caucus, thanking Warden Mcintyre for his support and service to the WOWC for 2005. U1longas A Duke Energy Company November 15, 2005 Mr. Mark McDonald County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive, St.. Thomas, Ontario N5R 5V1 Dear Mr~IJUl~" _ \j & O! ?nns NU:.s \IJ"'" I would like to provide you with inforrnation regarding naturai gas prices and the steps Union Gas has been taking to encourage customers to insulate themselves from rising energy prices. As you are no doubt aware, natural gas prices have increased this fall and are expected to remain relatively high throughout this winter heating season. This is largely a result of the significant supply disruptions caused by the combined forces of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita that recently hit the U.S. Gulf Coast (which is a significant source of North American natural gas supply). Based upon the market place prices we could see a price increase for the typical residential customer of about $25 per month on an annualized basis. As a regulated utility, Union Gas does not profit from the sale of natural gas - the price we pay is the price our consumers pay. Yet, we know that higher natural gas prices are of concern to our customers and so we are engaged in educating our customers on steps they can take to help insulate themselves from rising energy prices. With winter's chill on the horizon, Union Gas has been emphasizing to its customers the value of energy efficiency in lowering their gas bills, through an enhanced communication effort on our webslte, in customer newsletters, through the media, at energy conservation clinics and energy forums, and by working with large retailers to share energy conservation tips with the public. In addition, we have distributed approximately 30,000 Energy Savings Kits free of cost to our customers. These kits contain our Wise Energy Guide (also available on our website), low-flow faucet aerators, and insulating pipe wrap. We are emphasizing that small steps like turning down the thermostat, installing low-flow shower heads and sealing up cracks and air leaks will reduce consumption and help consumers to manage their gas bill (please find attached a tip sheet with more information or visit our website at www.unionqas.com for more energy saving ideas). .../2 P.O. Box 5353 Station A, 109 Commissioners Rd. W., London, ON, N6A 4Pl www.uniongas.com Union Gas Limited Lnlongas A Duke Energy Company Finally, we have been promoting our Equal Billing Program to our customers, as a helpful tool to manage energy costs by spreading the higher winter costs over the year. Even with these efforts we know that a small proportion of our customers may at any time experience challenges in paying their monthly gas bills. In keeping with our longstanding policy, we remain fully committed to working with any customer who might be having a difficult time making a particular bill payment. Finally I wish to emphasize that despite the higher price environment for natural gas this winter heating season, natural gas remains a customer's best energy choice as space and water heating with natural gas today is still significantly less than using electricity or fuel oil. And, it is a safe, reliable and clean source of energy. Should you or your staff have any questions, or require any further information on this or any other energy issue, please do not hesitate to contact me. I can be reached at 519-667-4184 or through email atjokrucky@uniongas.com. Sincerely ~ruCkY Manager, Operations London/Sarnia District Attachments P.O. Box 5353 Station A, 109 Commissioners Rd. W., London, ON, N6A 4Pl www.uniongas.com Union Gas Limited Union Gas - Energy Saving Tips · Everyone should have an energy reduction plan. Start by using the Union Gas Wise Energy Guide, available at www.uniongas.com · Turn down the thermostat! Turning it down a few degrees while you are out at work and while sleeping can save over $100 a year! Install a programmable thermostat and pre-program your home's temperature. · Reduce air leaks by applying weather stripping and caulking to all your doors and windows, and add foam gaskets to all electrical outlets. · Wash your clothes in cold water. · Insulate your hot water heater and hot water pipes with foam insulation and foam wrap. · Install a low-flow faucet aerators in your shower and on your taps. They save water and the energy required to heat it. · Install a high-efficiency natural gas furnace and enjoy thousands of dollars in energy savings over the life of the furnace. · Change the air filter on the furnace everyone to two months. A dirty air filter reduces the airflow into your furnace forcing it to work harder. · Let the sun shine in! Open window coverings and let the sun in during the day to help heat your home, then close the blinds and drapes at night to help keep the heat in. · Close doors and vents to unused rooms. Ensure that furniture and draperies are not obstructing air flow from heating vents. · And finally, if you are cold, use a sweater or a blanket Important Energy Efficiency Information What you can do to insulate ~~YQ,u,rseJf,Jrom,-rjsi.l1g^... . energy prices EnerTip 1 (in II .erie. of 6) Did you know? By .etting your thermostat at 18" C for 16 hours (while at work and while sleeping), you'll save abollt$10C n year. It'aeasy. InstaiLa programmable thermostat and pre-program your home's temperature. Now, that's something worth doing! Union Gas customers who purchase any programmable lhennostat before December 15, 2005 are eligible for a $15 credit on their gas bill. Visit uniongas.com for details. Winter's chllJ is on the horizon. And, today is the time to put your home on an energy reduction plan. Now. that's something worth doing! The best way to insulate yourself from higher energy prices i. to use le.s energy. Union Gas encourages everyone to have an energy reduction plan. The Union Gos Wise F.nergy Guide is a great place to start. The free 40-page guide, available at uniongas.com, provides solutions to improve a home's energy efficiency and save money. Simple step. have a big payback. Install a programmable thennastat, choose a low-flow showerhead and reduce air leakage. These steps alone can reduce your energy bllJ by more than $175 annually. IS E o By installing a high.efficiency natural gas furnace and a variable- speed blower motor, you can enjoy thousands of dollars in energy savings over the life of the furnace. Insulate yourself from higher January and February energy bills by taking advantage ofthe Union Gas Equal Billing Plan. You pay a lower equalized amount spread over the course of a year. To learn more and sign up for the Equal Billing Plan, visit unionga..com Using energy more efficiently is the best way to insulate yourself from rising energy prices. Selecting the right fuel is also key. Natural gas remains your best energy "hoke. At today's rates, space heating and water heating with nalural gas I:osts aboul 40.50 per I:ent less than using eleclricity or fuel oil. ~ ! ~ ~ o Lnlongas J . " ~ ~ ~ ! f j I f ~ ~ The Right Energy Choice" ^ Duke Energy Company Helpful information at uniongas.com Fax Server 11/17/2005 3:24 PAGE 001/001 Fax Server FCM Federation of Canadian Municipalities November 17, 2005 Please Distribute to All Members of Council MEMBERS' ADVISORY IMPACT OF AN EARLY ELECTION ON FEDERAL TRANSFERS FOR MUNICIPALITIES The uncertainty created by a possible early federal election is causing headaches for budget planners in municipalities across the country. At issue is the status of a two- year, $800 million transit fund, as well as the transfer of the first installment of gas tax money to municipalities in those jurisdictions where agreements have been signed. The answer to questions regarding transit funds seems to be clearer today following an all-party agreement yesterday to adopt Bill C-66 quickly, before a non-confidence vote (expected before the end of the month) triggers an early election. FCM had urged action to ensure passage before an election. The Bill, designed to flow the transit funds immediately, was introduced last month as part of the Government's response to rising fuel prices. The original $800 million program itself was introduced thanks to a Budget agreement last spring between Prime Minister Martin and NDP leader Jack Layton. The agreement also provided an additional $1.6 billion for affordable housing. Once Bill C-66 is adopted (this is expected to happen next week), there will remain no federal legislative hurdles. Treasury Board is expected to approve quickly the program parameters, and then contribution agreements with each jurisdiction will have to be negotiated. Although these negotiations may take some time, the funding itself is assured. FCM staff is currently seeking answers to the second set of questions, namely the status of the gas tax transfer. Based on information we have been able to gather so far, it would appear that gas tax payments will not be jeopardized by an early election call. We will post an updated set of New Deal FAQ's on the FCM website within the next few days. We encourage members to log on to www.fcm.ca/enqlish/ndeal/faqs.htmlfor regular updates. For more information, please contact Michael Buda (613) 241-5221 ext. 271 Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing 777 Bay Street, 1?'h Floor Toronto ON M5G 2E5 Tel. (416) 585-7000 Fax (416) 585-6470 www.mah.Qov.on.ca Ministre des Affaires municipales et du Logement ~ .~ Ontario 777, rue Bay, 17"etage Toronto ON M5G 2E5 Tel. (416) 585-7000 Telec (416) 585-6470 www.mah.Qov.on.ca 05-21783 November 8, 2005 NOV'7 Mrs. Sandra J. Heffren Deputy Clerk County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas ON N5R 5Vl Dear Mrs. Heffren: Thank you for your letter of October 26, 2005 advising me of council's views about Private Member's Bi11123, the Transparency in Public Matters Act, 2005, introduced by Ms. Caroline Di Cocco, MPP for Sarnia-Lambton. I appreciate receiving council's comments and suggestions. I support the principle of accountable decision-making through openness and transparency in council meetings, and I will continue to monitor this matter. Again, thank you for sharing council's views and concerns with me. The Honourable Steve Peters, MPP, Elgin-Middlesex-London Ms. Caroline Di Cocco, MPP, Sarnia-Lambton 1322(06/95) In Case of Transmission Difficulties, please Call 416-863-2101 or 1-866-309-3811 please Deliver To: Chief Administrative Officer County of Elgin Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration Ministere des Affaires civiques et de l'lmmigration ~ ~~ Ontario Minister 6th Floor 400 University Avenue Toronto ON M7A 2R9 Ministre 6e etage 400, avenue University Toronto ON M7 A 2R9 Tel.: (416) 325-6200 Fax: (416) 325-6195 Tel.: (416) 325-6200 Telec.: (416) 325-6195 Monday, November 21,2005 Dear Friend: This is a proud day for Ontario, our government and the thousands of newcomers who make Ontario their home each year. I am pleased to inform you that Canada's Citizenship and Immigration Minister Joe Volpe and I have signed the first-ever Canada-Ontario Immigration Agreement. This agreement will quadruple federal funding for settlement and language training for Ontario's newcomers. I am confident this increase in federal funding will go a long way in helping immigrants get off to the best possible start in Ontario. I'd like to thank Premier McGuinty. It was his hard work and effort that got us here today. As a government, we are committed to ensuring Ontario's newcomers have every opportunity to succeed. This increase in federal funding from about $800 per immigrant to $3,400 per immigrant will make a big difference in the lives of our newcomers. This represents a total of $920 million in new federal funding over the next five years. The Canada-Ontario Immigration Agreement is the first to involve municipalities in planning immigration. For the first time, all three levels of government will work together to make sure programs are in place to meet the needs of immigrants in regions across the province. The agreement provides $2 million annually to involve municipalities in Ontario's first-ever immigration website. This website will serve as a gateway for newcomers and potential newcomers by giving them up-to-date information about Ontario communities, skills accreditation, schools and other services. Ontario is competing with the rest of the world for the skills and talents of immigrants. We can leverage our diversity into investment and jobs, but only if we continue to attract the best and the brightest from around the world, and provide them with the opportunity to contribute socially and economically to Ontario. The Canada-Ontario Immigration Agreement will provide our newcomers with the federal funding and services they need to successfully start their new lives in Ontario. I have attached a news release and backgrounder that provides further details. Don't hesitate to use this information as you share this good news. Sincerely, ~~ Mike Colle Ontario Minister of Citizenship and Immigration Attachments 1+1 Citizenship and Immigration Canada Citoyennete et Immigration Canada &JOntario PRESS RELEASE CANADA AND ONTARIO SIGN HISTORIC IMMIGRATION AGREEMENT Toronto, N.ovember 21,2005 - The Honourable Joe Volpe, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, and the Honourable Mike Colle, Ontario Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, today signed the Canada-Ontario Immigration Agreement. Under the terms of the agreement, the Government of Canada will invest an additional $920 million over the next five years in Ontario. This is the first comprehensive immigration agreement between Ontario and Canada, and it is intended to help more newcomers reach their full potential in Ontario by increasing the funding for services to help them settle, integrate and access language training. By formalizing how the two levels of government will work together in the area of immigration, the agreement signals a shared desire to optimize the economic benefits of immigration and ensure that immigration policies and programs respond to Ontario's social, economic development and labour market priorities. "This is a significant milestone, laying a foundation for the governments of Canada and Ontario to work together in collaboration with municipalities and official language minority communities to improve the social and economic integration of immigrants in the province," said Minister Volpe. "This is truly a landmark agreement for our province and a history-making investment in the successful integration of the 125,000 new immigrants Ontario welcomes each year," added Minister Colle. Ontario welcomes more than half of all new immigrants coming to Canada every year. Increased settlement funding for immigrants in Ontario will help Ontario's newcomers successfully start their new life here. Visit the Citizenship and Immigration Canada Web site: www.cic.gc.ca Visit the Ontario Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration Web site: www.citizenship.gov.on.ca - 30- For more infonnation: Government of Canada Stephen Heckbert Director of Communications Office of the Minister Citizenship and Immigration Canada (613) 954-1064 Greg Scott Media Relations Communications Branch Citizenship and Immigration Canada (613) 941-7028 Government of Ontario Danna 0 'Brien Minister's Office Ontario Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration (416) 325-3460 Mary Dowding-Pare Communications Branch Ontario Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration (416) 314-7230 BACKGROUNDER HIGHLIGHTS OF CANADA-ONTARIO IMMIGRATION AGREEMENT On November 21, 2005, the governments of Ontario and Canada signed the first Canada-Ontario Immigration Agreement. Through the agreement, the federal government will provide $920 million in new immigration funding over five years to help newcomers successfully integrate more quickly into Ontario communities and achieve their full potential. The agreement outlines how the governments of Canada and Ontario will work together to expand language training and settlement programs. Settlement Services Under the agreement, the existing federal (Immigrant Settlement and Adaptation Program) and provincial (Newcomer Settlement Program) settlement services will be better coordinated. The goal is to expand the range of services for newcomers. A joint strategy will be established so that organizations providing settlement services can help newcomers more easily locate and access community services such as orientation, information, referrals, assessment and job search assistance. Language Training Language is an important factor for the successful integration of newcomers. The federal and provincial governments will work together to expand language training. For the first time, English as a second language classes will include occupation-specific language training, helping immigrants reach the level required to work in their fields or to enrol in post-secondary education. Partnership with Municipalities The Canada-Ontario Immigration Agreement is the first agreement to involve municipalities in planning and discussions on immigration. For the first time all three levels of government will work together to make sure programs are in place to meet the needs of immigrants in regions and municipalities across Ontario. Almost 30 percent of Canada's immigrants settle in the city of Toronto. This agreement recognizes the unique challenge this creates for Toronto. The agreement establishes a mechanism within nine months for all three levels of government to discuss immigration and settlement to meet their respective objectives. . . . Provincial Nominee Program and Temporary Foreign Workers Over the next twelve months, Ontario will develop a pilot Provincial Nominee Program. As well, during this time, Canada and Ontario will develop the terms of a Temporary Foreign Worker agreement. These programs will give Ontario the opportunity to identify newcomers who will help meet its economic priorities and labour market objectives. A number of provinces already have provincial nominee programs in place. Immigration Portal The Ontario government will launch the first Ontario Web site to provide potential newcomers with timely information on Ontario's communities, labour markets, skills accreditation and other important information to successfully start their new life in Ontario. It will help newcomers access the information they need from all levels of government to settle, upgrade their language skills and get a job. Beginning with approximately 300 links, the site will expand over the next two years to include more information and features and become a virtual one-stop gateway for newcomers to Ontario. The Web site will complement and link with the Government of Canada's Going to Canada portal. Newcomer Statistics Ontario welcomes more than half the newcomers to Canada and has the most diverse population in the world. According to the Statistics Canada 2001 census, 27 percent of Ontario residents and 42 percent of residents in the Greater Toronto Area are foreign-born. Statistics Canada also reports that immigration is expected to account for all the net labour force growth in the province within the next decade. Member Communication C1;J.. . .r.. ..... Association of !~~'. · .. '. Municipalities t" " :, ,: !t'lJ", of Ontario rt 393 University Avenue, Suite 1701 Toronto. ON M5G 1E6 Tel: (416) 971-9856. fax: (416) 971-6191 email: amo@amo.on.ca To the immediate attention of the Clerk and Council November 22, 2005 - Alert 05/085 Ontario Association of Non-Profit Homes and Services for Seniors Calls on Government to Fulfill Election Promise . .. Issue: At a news conference today, representatives from the Ontario Association of Non-Profit Homes and Services for Seniors (OANHSS), the Ontario Association of Residents' Council (OARC), the Ontario Society of Senior Citizens' Organizations (OSSCO) and the United Senior Citizens of Ontario Inc. (USCOI) outlined spending for nursing home care by the provincial government to date demonstrating that the Provincial Government has not fulfilled its' commitment to invest in better nursing home care. Background: During the 2003 Ontario election campaign, the Government promised to increase care funding for residents of long term care homes by $6,000 per resident per year. The promise represented a $450 million annual increase to base operating funding, or an increase of $16.44 per resident, per day. Although the Government has announced spending increases totaling $455 million ($191 million in 2004/05 and $264 million in 2005/06), the majority of the funding, $311 million, has gone to systems improvements with only $144 million committed to base operating budgets. This means that the care funding for nursing home residents has only increased by approximately $2,000 per resident per year. Donna Rubin, Executive Director of OANHSS, acknowledged that while systems improvements are necessary, our most frails citizens who reside in nursing homes are still not receiving the level of care they require. Ms. Rubin and the other representatives called on the Government to increase base operating funding by $306 million annually (or $4,084 per resident per year) to eliminate the service gaps in long term care in Ontario. In 2004, Monique Smith, the Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Health and Long Term Care released "Commitment to Care: A Plan for Long- Term Care in Ontario" which clearly outlined and recommended the need for increased and equitable funding as well as service improvements in long term care homes in Ontario. In May 2005, the AMO Long Term Care Working Group met with Monique Smith and encouraged the Government to address the mounting funding shortfalls facing municipalities in the provision of long term care by meeting its pledge to increase funding by $6,000 per resident per year. For additional information visit the OAHNSS website. Action: AMO continues to advocate that the Province address the funding shortfall and the subsequent additional downloading costs to municipalities by meeting its campaign commitment of increased, appropriate funding in long term care. This information is available in the Policy Issues section ofthe AMO website at www.amo.on.ca For more information, contact: Petra Wolfbeiss, AMO Senior Policy Advisor, at 416-971-9856 extension 329 ~ell'lE)el0 ~01l'lll'llbJmieation L" ~"" ,r, Association of \\ i C".'<' . \ ' Municip':!lities mm\lttl'm,/ of Ontano Alert 393 University Avenue, Suite 1701 Toronto, ON M5G 1E6 Tel: (416) 971-9856' fax: (416) 971-6191 email: amo@amo.on.ca To the immediate attention of the Clerk and Council December 5, 2005 - Alert 05/088 Government Introduces Source Protection Bill . Issue: The Province today tabled a proposed Clean Water Act to protect drinking water resources at the source. Background: According to the Government's news release the proposed legislation would establish Ontario as a leader in the delivery of safe drinking water by: · Requiring municipalities and conservation authorities to map the sources of municipal drinking water supply, and especially the vulnerable areas that need protection, to prevent the supply from being depleted or contaminated. · Directing local communities to monitor any activity that could potentially threaten water quality or quantity and take action to reduce or remove that threat. · Empowering local authorities to take preventative measures before a threat to water can cause harm. While AMO has been consulted on a variety of matters related to the government's source water protection plans, it has not yet had an opportunity to review the draft legislation. The proposed legislative framework is complicated and will require careful analysis and consideration over the coming months. The Ontario Government had committed to implementing all the recommendations of the O'Connor Report, including the 22 recommendations relevant to source water protection. The Government established an Advisory Committee in November of 2002 to develop a provincial framework to guide the development, implementation and maintenance of source water protection plans. The Committee submitted its report to the Minister in April 2003 with 55 recommendations. AMO commented on this report in June of 2003. Subsequently, the Ministry of the Environment also established the Implementation and Technical Committees in 2004. The Implementation Committee provided advice on the tools and approaches that will be needed to implement watershed-based source protection planning including how it will be financed. The Committee reported back with 133 recommendations. AMO responded to the recommendations in February 2005. Next Steps: AMO will undertake an analysis of the proposed legislation to share with members and will prepare a detailed response to the Bill. It is anticipated that there will be an opportunity for committee hearings in early 2006. For more information, contact: Milena Avramovic, AMO Senior Policy Advisor, at 416-971-9856 extension 342 For Your nformation Association of Municipalities of Ontario 393 University Avenue, Suite 1701 Toronto, ON M5G 1E6 Tel: (416) 971-9856' fax: (416) 971-6191 email: amo@amo.on.ca To the attention of the Clerk and Council. For Immediate Attention December 2, 2005 - FYI 05/031 Environment Canada Accepting Applications for Funding under the Invasive Alien Species Program Issue: Environment Canada is accepting applications for funding under the Invasive Alien Species Partnership Program (IASPP) until December 16, 2005. Background: Invasive Alien Species (IAS) are defined as species of plants, animals and micro-organisms introduced outside their natural past or present distribution. Alien species become invasive when they establish and spread in the new environment, and threaten the native species, the environment, the economy, or some aspect of society. Alien species can be introduced from other countries or continents, or even from another ecosystem within Canada. Examples of invaders include purple loosestrife, which is choking Canadian wetlands; and the zebra mussel, which has eliminated native species and clogged water lines and fouled engines in Ontario. Invasive alien species threaten Canada's environment, economy and society, including human health. They are the second greatest threat to Canada's biodiversity - second only to habitat loss. They threaten the sustainability of our natural resources and the quality of life of Canadians. Public awareness of this alien invasion is growing, with the media driving such files as West Nile Virus, chronic wasting disease, emerald ash borer and ballast water management. Environment Canada has assumed a national co-ordinating role on the issue of invasive alien species. As such, the IASPP will engage Canadians in actions to prevent, detect, and manage IAS to minimize their risk to the environment, economy, and society. Focus: The first round of funding will target education and outreach programs that are expected to be completed before March 31,2006. Up to $50 000 per year will be available to individual projects. Action: Interested municipalities are directed to download the backgrounder and application form via the Environment Canada - Canadian Biodiversity Information Network website. This information is available in the Policy Issues section of the AMO website at www.amo.on.ca For more information, contact: The IASPP Coordinator at 819-953-4387 or IASPP-PPEEE@ec.gc.ca rrhe Corporation of the Municipality of Centra{ ~fgin 450 Sunset Drive, 1 st Floor, St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 5V1 Ph.519-631-4860 Fax 519-631-4036 November 15th, 2005 Tonia Grannum, Clerk Room 1405, Whitney Block, Queen's Park Toronto, ON M7A 1A2 Dear Ms. Grannum: Re: Bill 206 Please be advised that Council discussed correspondence with respect to the above noted matter at their meeting dated Monday, November 14th, 2005 and the following resolution was passed: WHEREAS the provincial Standing Committee on General Government is currently debating Bill 206, An Act to revise the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System Act; and WHEREAS the OMERS pension fund is currently equal to approximately 8% of Ontario's annual GDP; and WHEREAS the OMERS pension fund serves approximately 900 employers and 355,000 diverse employee groups including: current and former employees of municipal governments; school boards; libraries; police and fire departments; children's aid societies; and electricity distribution companies; and WHEREAS Ontario's municipalities and their employees depend on the prudent management of . the $36 Billion plan and to ensure that employees and employers are paying for benefits they can afford; and WHEREAS OMERS employer and employee members are facing an increase in OMERS contributions in 2006, approximately 9% as a result of a significant deficit in the OMERS fund; and WHEREAS the Bill includes significant, potentially costly and unnecessary changes to the governance structure of OMERS including a Sponsors Corporation structured to be governed by arbitration; and . WHEREAS the Bill would permit the creation of expensive supplementary plans to provide optional enhanced benefits that will impose new collective bargaining obligations on municipalities, the operating costs of which cannot yet be fully assessed; and WHEREAS the Province has a responsibility to study the potential impact of the changes it is proposing and to share the results with employers and employee groups; and WHEREAS AMO and others have urged the government to consider the potential implications of Bill 206 and to ensure the proposed policy changes protect the interests of employers, employees and taxpayers; and WHEREAS the Government is moving in haste will a Bill, which in its current form raisers significant technical, public policy and economic issues; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT The Municipality of Central Elgin does not support Bill 206, and requests that the Government of Ontario reconsider the advisability of proceeding with Bill 206 in its current form; and AND FURTHER IT BE RESOLVED THAT the Honourable Steve Peters, M.P.P., the Honourable John Gerretsen, Minister of Municipal Affairs & Housing, the Honourable Dalton McGuinty, Premier of Ontario, and the Association of Municipalities of Ontario be advised that this Council does not support proposed changes to the OMERS pension fund contained in Bill 206. CARRIED. If you have any questions or concerns respecting this information, please do not hesitate to contact me at the municipal office. Yours truly, ~y~ Dianne Wilson Deputy Clerk c.c. The Honourable Dalton McGuinty, Premier of Ontario The Honourable John Gerretsen, Minister of Municipal Affairs & Housing The Honourable Steve Peters, M.P.P, Association of Municipalities of Ontario -~~V/t~~~,~rl~~f;rl~~;f\Ilq'[Ity~~;~OI;JFlty\qf'RIgitl] Township of MALAHIDE 1,2005 87 John Street South, Aylmer, Ontario N5H 2C3 Telephone: (519) 773-5344 Fax: (519) 773-5334 Email: malahide@township.malahide.on.ca www.township.malahide.on.ca The Honourable Steve Peters, MPP Elgin-Middlesex - London, 542 Talbot Street, St. Thomas, Ontario. N5P 1C4 ND\ 2 2, c3fiS Dear Minister: RE: OMERS - Bill 206. Malahide Township Council met on November 17,2005, and passed the following Resolution: THAT the Township of Malahide strongly objects to Bill 206 "An Act to Revise the Ontario Municipal Retirement System Act"; and THAT a meeting with Mr. Steve Peters, MPP be scheduled as soon as possible to present the concerns of the County of Elgin and municipalities of Elgin County with the legislation; and THAT Elgin County seek standing at the hearings on Bill 206 to formally express it's objection to the Bill; and, THAT copies of this resolution be sent to Steve Peters, MPP, Hon. John Gerretsen, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing and the Association of Municipalities of Ontario. ] We look forward to hearing from you with respect to the above. Yours very truly, TOWNSHIP OF MALAHIDE fl~ R. MILLARD, C.A.O./CLERK Copy - Hon. John Gerretson, MMA&H. Association of Municipalities of Ontario. H:\diana's files\Randy 2005\peters - omers nov I8.doc RANDALL R. MILLARD C.A.O./Clerk Emnil: clerk@township.mnlnhide.on.cn SUSAN E. WILSON Treasurer Emnil: trensurer@township.mnlnhide.on.ca Dec, 1.2005 11:08AM TOWN OF AYLMER No,8597 p. 1/4 TOWN OF AYLMER 46 Talbot St~eet, West, Aylmer, Ontario NSH 1J7 Office: (519) 773-3164 Fax: (519) 765-1446 Adminstration: M. Heather Adams - Administrator · Phyllis Ketchabaw - Clerk December 1, 2005. Honourable John Gerretsen, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Honourable Steven Peters, MPP Elg in-Middlesex-London SUBEJCT: BILL 206. OMERS Act Dear Minister: Please be advised of the following resolution passed by Aylmer Town Council on Monday evening, November 28th, 2005: "Th at Aylmer Town Council endorse the resolution of the County of Elgin regarding their opposition to Bill 206, an Act to Revise the Ontario Municipal Retirement System Act and supports their actions as outlined in their Resolution dated November 8, 2005, and that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing; AMO; MPP Steven Peters; and the County of Elgin." Please give serious consideration to the County's direction in this regard. A copy of the pertinent correspondence from the County is attached for easy reference. Yours truly, .itJJ.Ji 51f-"'-~ Cle~ Phyllis Ketchabaw c.c. AMO Council of the County of Elgin TOWNSHIP OF SOUTHWOLD 35663 Fingal Line Fingal, ON NOL 1 KO Phone: (519) 769-2010 Fax: (519) 769-2837 Email: tmichiels@twp.southwold.on.ca November 29, 2005 DELIVERED BY MAIL DEe - 2 200S The Honourable Steve Peters, M.P.P. Elgin-Middlesex-London 542 Talbot Street St. Thomas, ON N5P 1 C4 Re: Resolution for Support Bill 206, Revision to the Ontario Municipal Retirement Act Please be advised that Council at its regular meeting on November 28, 2005 passed the following resolution: "THAT Township of Southwold Council strongly object to Bill 206 "An Act to Revise the Ontario Municipal Retirement System Act; AND THAT a copy of this resolution be forwarded to M.P.P. Steve Peters. " Carried If you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me. jurs very truly, 4' ~~CMh Tena Michiels Deputy Clerk Cc: County of Elgin Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Ministre des Affaires municipales et du Logement fM .~ Ontario 777 Bay Street, 1?'h Floor Toronto ON M5G 2E5 Tel. (416) 585-7000 Fax (416) 585-6470 www.mah.Qov.on.ca 777, rue Bay, 17eetage Toronto ON M5G 2E5 Tel. (416) 585-7000 Telec (416) 585-6470 www.mah.Qov.on.ca 3, 0 05-22232 November 22, 2005 Mrs. Sandra J. Heffren Manager of Administrative Services County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas ON N5R 5V1 Dear Mrs. Heffren: Thank you for your recent correspondence and for sharing your views on Bill 206, An Act to revise the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System Act. Weare taking into consideration all comments received while work on Bill 206 continues. As you may know, Bill 206 has been referred to the Standing Committee on General Government on November 14,16,21 and 23, to further discuss the Bill. For further information on these proceedings you may visit the web site of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario at http://www.ont1a.on.ca/committees/general~overnment.htm The government hopes to hear from all stakeholders and to have an opportunity for broad discussion of this important matter. We welcome any suggestions for amendments to Bill 206. I look forward to receiving further recommendations or comments on this important matter. 1322(06/95) .' The Corporation of the Municipaat!f of Centra[ T-fgin 450 Sunset Drive, 1st Floor, St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 5V1 Ph.519-631-4860 Fax 519-631-4036 NOV 3 0 2005 VIA COURIER November 25, 2005 Jill Bellchamber-Glazier Municipal Advisor Ministry of Municipal Affairs & Housing Municipal Services Office - Southwestern 659 Exeter Road, 2nd Floor London, Ontario N6E 1L3 Dear Ms Eellchamber-Glazier: Re:. Proposed Restructuring Proposal I am pleased to submit for the approval of the Minister, the required reports on the restructuring proposal involving the Municipality of Central Elgin, the City of St. Thomas and the County of Elgin. . Enclosed with this letter, please find two copies of each of the following documents: · Clerk's Statutory Declaration, Municipality of Central Elgin; · Clerk's Statutory Declaration, City of St. Thomas; · Clerk's Statutory Declaration, County of Elgin; · Certified True Copy of the By-law in Support of the Proposal, Municipality of Central Elgin; · Certified True Copy of the By-law in Support of the Proposal, City of St. Thomas; · Certified True Copy of the By-law in Support of the Proposal, County of Elgin (one copy only); and · Minutes of the Joint Public Meeting held on November 17, 2005. If the Ministry has any questions or requires any additional documentation, kindly advise. ..../2 ,',. , 2 C: Wendell Graves, City Clerk, City of St. Thomas Mark G. McDonald, Chief Administrative Officer, County of Elgin RAVEN&SHAWLLP Chartered Accountants 204-460 Wellington Street St. Thomas, ON N5R 6H9 Telephone: (519) 631-8250 Telephone: (519) 637-3500 Facsimile: (519)631-8919 December 1, 2005 Warden James McIntyre and Members of Council County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 3Vl Attention: Mr. Mark McDonald Chief Administrative Officer Dear Warden McIntyre and Members of Council: We have been engaged to audit the financial statements of the County of Elgin for the year ending December 31,2005. Canadian generally accepted auditing standards (GAAS) require that we communicate at least annually with you regarding all relationships between the County and ourselves that, in our professional judgment, may reasonably be thought to bear on our independence. In determining which relationships to report, the standards require us to consider relevant rules and related interpretations prescribed by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Ontario and applicable legislation, covering such matter as: · Holding a financial interest, either directly or indirectly, in a client; · Holding a position, either directly or indirectly, that gives the right or responsibility to exert significant influence over the financial or accounting policies of a client; · Personal or business relationships of immediate family, close relatives, partners or retired partners, either directly or indirectly, with a client; · Economic dependence on a client; and · Provision of services in addition to the audit engagement. We are not aware of any relationships between the County of Elgin and ourselves that, in our professional judgment, may reasonably be thought to bear on our independence for the year ended December 31,2005. Canadian generally accepted standards now require that we confirm our independence to management or persons having oversight responsibility for the financial reporting process. However, since the Rules of Professional Conduct of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Ontario deal with the concept of independence in terms of objectivity, our confirmation is to be made in that context. Accordingly, we hereby confirm that we are objective with respect to the County within the meaning of the Rules of Professional Conduct of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Ontario as of December 1, 2005. This report is intended solely for the use of Members of Council, management and other within the County and should not be used for any other purposes. Don Lemon from our office or I look forward to discussing with you the matters addressed in this letter at your convenience. Yours truly, ~ Chuck Raven, Partner Raven & Shaw Corporation of the County of Essex tVfIUx3 0/ tke ~unlJf if/WJIden '~\ , ~~!j lli1 'l~' November 28,2005 DEe - 1 2005 Warden James McIntyre County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 5Vl Dear Warden McIntyre: As your term as Warden draws to completion, I would like to extend congratulations and thanks to you for the service you have provided to the Western Ontario Wardens' Caucus during 2005. It has been a pleasure working with you as a member of the Caucus. I believe that 2005 has been a watershed year for WOWC. Momentum began with our visioning session in February and followed throughout the year. You are to be congratulated for shaping the direction ofWOWC and the raising the profile of issues of importance faced by communities in Southwestern Ontario with both AMO and the government. Going forward, I foresee WOWC building upon the energy generated in 2005, as we continue to advocate on behalf of our constituent municipalities. I would also like to thank you for your support throughout the year, by allowing me the privilege of serving as WOWC Chair and by championing positions advocated by WOWC. By virtue of a strong collective voice, WOWC has evolved into a significant force in Ontario municipal affairs. I trust that, together, we will continue to work diligently to have our voices heard. Best wishes for a joyous holiday season. Warmest regards, Michael S. Raymond Warden, County of Essex and Chair, Western Ontario Wardens' Caucus 360 Fairview Avenue West, Essex, Ontario N8M 1Y6 - 776-6441 FAX # (519) 776-4455