May 11, 1999 Agenda
ORDERS OF THE DA Y
FOR TUESDAY. MAY 11TH. 1999 AT 9:00 A.M.
1999
27th,
Minutes meeting held on Apri
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest
Nature Thereof
Ms. Cynthia Nurse, Economic Development and Catherine Upfold,
HRDC, to update Council on Economic Development programs.
and the General
Presenting Petitions, Presentations and Delegations
9:00 A.M.
MORNING SESSION
1 st Meeting Called to Order
2nd
3rd
4th
Adoption of
- Mr. Michael Power, President of the Association of Municipalities of
Ontario, will share with Council A.M.O.'s program and planning.
9:15 A.M.
Co-Ordinator, to
Ms. Paula Neice, Trans Canada Trail Regional
inform Council about the Trans Canada Trail.
9:45 A.M,
Whole Counci
"Committee Of The
Motion to Move Into
Reports of Counci
Staff
5th
6th
and Staff
Reports of
1-26
see attached
Correspondence
Items for Consideration
Items for Information (Consent
Counci
i)
ii)
7th
27-30
31-43
Agenda)
OTHER BUSINESS
1) Statements/Inquiries by Members
2) Notice of Motion
3) Matters of Urgency
In-Camera Items
8th
Motion to Rise and Report
to Adopt
the Committee Of The Whole
Recommendations from
Consideration of By-Laws
ADJOURNMENT
Motion
9th
10th
11th
12th
13th
44
LUNCH WILL BE PROVIDED
Economic Development Project Proposal
County Of Elgin
May 11, 1999
In spring of 1999 a facilitated community strategic planning process in the Western
Municipalities of Elgin has established desired growth within the communities. Although the
focus groups were individualized they findings were very similar in all communities:
· better coordinating of marketing initiatives for summer tourism within the area
· developing area information and have distribution points for such information
Information racks which area businesses and community agencies
further market vacant lands within Commercial and Industrial established areas
for small manufacturing starts or warehousing
coordinator for activities through the area one person contact hired within the area
proposal writer for grants available at provincial and federal level
·
·
·
As you can see some of these goals once established have been acted upon internally as
municipal councilor were involved in the process.
is the reason why I am in fÌ'ont of County Council, each
businesses within the county of Elgin would benefit fÌ'om the following
The following goals however
municipality and small
professionals:
·
proposal writer seeking grants for initiatives throughout the county
personnel to market and develop Commercial and Industrial areas
liaison for intergovernmental affairs
·
·
Both provincial and federal governments are working towards Rural Economic Development and
community building initiatives. Recently the County of Middlesex with funding assistance fÌ'om
Human Resources Development Canada has embarked into a term project for Economic
Development and hope to achieve the following goals
· maintain and expand current employment opportunities
· coordinate tourism efforts throughout the county
· develop an annual historic, industrial, tourism event
· create a sustainable and transportable promotional display for trade shows
The steering community of the project I'm working on are seeking the next steps to complete the
their communities goals by of course seeking funding through various government departments.
They realized that perhaps the municipalities within Elgin could perhaps benefit fÌ'om the
personnel this project would require and the County level was the natural place to serve all your
communities.
So your worships the timing for this project is perfect and with your approval County Council
authorize the Administrator and the Warden to seek the feasibility of a partnership with the
County of Elgin and Human Resources Development Canada for the benefit of all your
communities.
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
Association of
Municipalities
of Ontario
to
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1999
19
March
1999
~:~~!!}}F,f:Lft!î\J
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MAR :<;t!¡
Warden Rien VanBrenk
County of Elgin
450 Sunset Drive
St. Thomas ON N5R 5V1
Warden VanBrenk:
As President of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario I said I would attempt to meet as
many municipal leaders as possible in their communities to share with you what AMO has
been doing and what we are planning
Dear
municipal issues remain at
to ensure that
With a Provincial election on the horizon we need
the forefront of the political agenda in Ontario
If it is convenient I would like you and your council for a meeting either on
Tuesday, April 13th or Tuesday, pril 27t' 1999 in St. Thomas to discuss these issues with
you This could be in a formal CoùnCIl setting or in an informal discussion setting
to
807 -854-1100
Geraldton at
in
Please ask your staff to contact my secretary, Karen
confirm with details or suggest an alternative date.
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Sincerely,
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Michael Power
President
Toronto, ON M5G 1 E6
. email: amo@amo.municom.com
393 University Ave., Suite 1701
(416) 971-9856 . fax: (416) 971-6191
I
te
REPORTS OF COUNCIL AND STAFF
1999
11TH
MAY
C. Watters, Manáger of Engineering Services - Municipality of DuttonlDunwich
Requests the Temporary Closure of County Road #8 (Currie Road) in the Village of
Dutton (ATTACHED)
1
C. Watters, Manager of Engineering Services - Intersection Control Beacons at
County Roads #19 and #45 (Plank Road and Calton Line) (ATTACHED)
2.
Road Allowance
Closure of
C. Watters, Manager of Engineering Services -
(ATTACHED)
3
Purchase of a New Surveying Total
Engineering Services
C. Watters, Manager of
Station (ATTACHED)
4
(ATTACHED)
Fax Machine Usage Policy
Manager of Library Services
C. Bishop
5.
(ATTACHED)
Pooling of Group Insurance With
Usage POliCY
Scanner
H. Underhill, Director of Human Resources
Other Municipalities (ATTACHED)
C. Bishop, Manager of Library Services
6
7
1999
Renewa
Elgin County Benefit
H. Underhill, Director of Human Resources
(ATTACHED)
8.
H. Underhill, Director of Human Resources - Acquisition Of A New Human
Resource Information System (ATTACHED)
9.
(ATTACHED)
Special Circumstances Fund
-~¡1
,
, .
(Y2K)
Director of Financial Services - Year 2000 Budget
M. McDonald, Chief Administrative Officer -
(ATTACHED)
L. Veger,
10.
11
REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL
FROM: CLAYTON WATrERS, MANAGER
ENGINEERING SERVICES
1999
SUBJECT: MUNICIPALITY OF DUTTONI DUNWICH REQUESTS THE TEMPORARY
CLOSURE OF COUNTY ROAD #8 (CURRIE ROAD) IN THE VILLAGE OF
DUTTON
19
DATE: APRIL
the
the temporary closure of Currie Road in
Dunwich requests
Introduction
The Municipality of Duttonl
Village of Dutton
Discussion/ Conclusion
The Municipality of Dutton/ Dunwich requests that Currie Road be closed from 5:00 p.m.,
Friday, July 9, 1999 to 5:00 p.m. to Saturday, July 10, 1999 for the purposes of the Downh
Derby.
The County of Elgin has. a policy on temporary road closures which requires the municipality to
· Provide general liability insurance of $5,000,000.00 and the County of Elgin be named as
additional insured.
That the municipâlity be responsible for
safe detour.
The municipa
and equipment to maintain a
the road closure
labour
the County harmless during
materials
al
·
to hold
lityagrees
·
Recommendation
That a by-law be passed to temporarily close Currie Road (County Road #8) from Mary Street
to Shackleton Street in the geographical location of the Village of Dutton in the Municipality of
Dutton/ Dunwich. The road clos.ure shall be from 5:00 p.m., Friday, July 9,1999 to 5:00 p.m.,
Saturday, July 10, 1999 for the purposes of the Downhill Derby. Provided that the above
requirements are met to the satisfaction of the Manager of Engineering Services
R SUBMISSION
RESPEPTFULL Y SUBMITTED
CDvJ~
MARK MCDONALD
CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER
2
,
~"
CLAYTON D. WATrERS, MANAGER
ENGINEERING SERVICES
REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL
FROM: CLAYTON WATTERS, MANAGER
ENGINEERING SERVICES
1999
INTERSECTION CONTROL BEACONS AT COUNTY ROADS #19 AND #45
(PLANK ROAD AND CALTON LINE)
12
Apri
SUBJECT:
DATE
Introduction
The Engineering Services Department received a Petition from the Municipality of Bayham
dated March 8, 1999 with approximately 300 signatures requesting the installation of a
Red/Amber overhead flashing beacon at the intersection of County Road #19 and #45.
Discussion/ Conclusion
at the above stated intersection are as follows:
County Road #19 (Plank Road) is a through road with an AA.D.T. of 3100. It has a posted
speed limit of 80km/h but a more realistic design or "85th percentile" speed of 90-1 OOkm/h (the
speed at which traffic tends to travel). Visibility is good and intersection warning signs are
present.
Existing conditions present
County Road #45 (Calton Line) is an arterial road with a stop condition at Plank Road and an
AAD.T. of 1500 at this location. Existing signage and warning devices include a 4' Stop sign
a 4' Stop Ahead sign and "Rumble Strips". Visibility is good.
An accident summary based on OPP reported accidents from 1992 concluded the following:
Twelve (12) accidents occurred in the past seven (7) years causing twenty three (23) injuries
and no fatalities. No accidents were caused by vehicles failing to stop, rather vehicles tended
to stop at the stop sign and proceed into traffic. Seventy five percent (75%) of the accidents
were either eastbound/northbound or westbound/southbound occurrences. This would most
likely indicate that the skew of the intersection contributed to these accidents since these
collisions occurred at the acute angle of the intersection
Flashing
states the following about
(M.U.T.C.D.)
The Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices
Beacons:
of2
1
"Intersection control beacons are intended for use at intersections where traffic or physical
conditions do not warrant full traffic control signals but where high accident rates indicate a
special hazard."
page
3
page 2 of 2
REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL
FROM: CLAYTON WATTERS, MANAGER
ENGINEERING SERVICES
1999
INTERSECTION CONTROL BEACONS AT COUNTY ROADS #19 AND #45
(PLANK ROAD AND CALTON LINE)
12
Apri
SUBJECT:
DATE
the
"The following warrants are general and should be used with considerable discretion, since
over-use of this device has led to its disregard by the motorist."
"A flashing beacon may be used: ... when an average of three accidents a year for at least three
years of a type directly attributable to poor observance of the STOP sign have occurred in
rural areas where two major high speed roads intersect."
The M.U.T.C.D. suggests a flashing beacon is not warranted at this location because the
reported accidents that have occurred at this intersection were not caused by "poor observance
of the STOP sign".
The following actions may be taken to reduce the potential
County Roads #19 and #45:
a) existing Intersection Warning signs on #19 be replaced with larger,
and "hidden" tabs,
that a speed zone be established on #19 reducing
that an Intersection Control Beacon be installed.
accidents at the Intersection of
for
high-intensity signs
or,
to 60km/h
it from 80km/h
b)
c)
In 1998 Council decided to install this type of Intersection Control Beacon at the intersection of
County Roads #45 and #36 in the Municipality of Central Elgin. This intersection had very
similar accident statistics to the one at #45 and #19 with the addition of fatalities. Currently
there are no fewer than four (4) of these beacons at County intersections and without a
comprehensive investigation it can be assumed there are a more intersections within the
County similar to these therefore warranting the same attention. These flashing beacons cost
approximately $5,000.00 to install and require on-going maintenance and hydro costs.
A precedent has been set with the installation of an Intersection Control Beacon at the
intersection of #45 and #36 and therefore all similar intersections should be treated equally
(Plank
Recommendation
That an Intersection Control Beacon be installed at the intersection of County Road #19
Road) and County Road #45 (Calton Line) in the Municipality of Bayham
SUBMISSION
MAR ALD
CHŒFADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER
, «
RESP C:¡ Y SUBMITTED
CLAYTON D. WATTERS, MANAGER
ENGINEERING SERVICES
REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL
FROM: CLAYTON WATTERS, MANAGER
ENGINEERING SERVICES
DATE: APRIL 19,1999
SUBJECT: CLOSURE OF ROAD ALLOWANCE
Introduction
The Municipality of West Elgin proposes to close a portion of the road allowance between
Concession 7 and 8.
Discussion/ Conclusion
The Municipality of West Elgin proposes to close the original road allowance between
Concession 7 and 8 being opposite Lot D, Concession 8 and Lot 1, Concession 8 in the
Municipality of West Elgin in the geographic Township of Aldborough. Specifically Parts #2 and
#5 on Reference Plan #11 R-6738. The area is located at County Road #104 (McMillan Line)
and Black's Road. The County has no concerns with the proposed road closure.
Recommendation
That the Municipality of West Elgin be informed that the County of Elgin has no concerns with
the proposed road closure of Parts #2 and #5 on Reference Plan #11 R-6738.
APPROVED FOR SUBMISSION
Oi ~£QALD -
-
CLAYTON D. WATTERS, MANAGER
ENGINEERING SERViCES CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER
5
REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL
FROM: CLAYTON WATTERS, MANAGER
ENGINEERING SERVICES
1999
SUBJECT: PURCHASE OF A NEW SURVEYING TOTAL STATION
APRIL 21
DATE
Introduction
The Engineering Services Department's Total Station has stopped working and requires over
$2,000.00 worth of repairs. It is not Y2K compliant or compatible with new engineering survey
and design software. It was purchased in 1991 and has served our department well in
completing the survey and design of many major projects including the reconstruction of County
Roads #8, #6, #24, #21, #28, #56, #35 and many other smaller construction projects. It has
also been valuable in monitoring the lake bank erosion close to County Roads #24 and #42.
Discussion/ Conclusion
Unlike in 1991 when the County purchased our Leica TC1600 Total Station there are now many
different manufacturers with dozens of models of instruments ranging in price from a basic 7
second unit worth $7,000.00 to a fully robotic one second unit worth close to $50,000.00. Our
department assessed our requirements and gathered information on a few total stations that
would fulfill those needs. We then proceeded to have two of the manufacturers (Nikon and
Leica) perform demonstrations of their respective products in our office.
The first unit shown to us was a Nikon DTM310. Nikon is relatively new to this industry but
provides very competitive pricing. This unit would satisfy the basic needs of the Engineering
Services Department. The quoted price of this unit is $8,160.00 plus taxes
The second unit demonstrated to us was the Leica TCR305. Leica has been in the optics and
surveying industry for over 100 years and their "Swiss-made" instruments are renowned for their
quality. This was the main reason for choosing our Leica Total Station in 1991 which served us
for over 8 years without any problems. The TCR305 had many features the Nikon did not and
was therefore priced accordingly at $14,195.00 less a $2,000.00 trade-in allowance for our unit
for a total of $12,195.00. No other manufacturer would give us a trade-in value for our Total
Station in non-working order.
of2
1
page
6
page 2 of 2
FROM: CLAYTON WATTERS, MANAGER
ENGINEERING SERVICES
1999
SUBJECT: PURCHASE OF A NEW SURVEYING TOTAL STATION
APRIL 21
DATE
The main technical difference between the Leica TCR305 and the Nikon DTM310 is that the
Leica unit has a reflectorless EDM. Simply stated this means that for short distances there is
no need for a prism reflector or person holding a prism. This option is only available on Leica
units in this price category and could prove to be a valuable tool for increasing speed, efficiency
and safety. For example with the reflectorless EDM one person alone could take a few
measurements to the centerline of a busy roadway without the need for closing a lane of traffic
or risk having the "Rod-Man" go out into traffic. Measurements to locations not accessible to a
person holding a prism pole such as the underside of bridges could also be obtained. Other
options such as a laser plum and endless drive screws make this Leica unit more efficient over
the Nikon.
In 1991 the County purchased our Leica TC1600 for approximately $25,000.00 and to replace it
today with a comparable unit would cost about the same. The Leica TCR305 is not as accurate
as the TC1600 but much more advanced technologically. After evaluating our needs we have
determined the Leica TCR305 would adequately serve our needs.
In conclusion our department is satisfied that the additional cost of the Leica unit is justified by
its superior quality, efficiency and technical options. This unit will have a life expectancy of 10
years that can be translated into an annual expenditure of approximately $1,200.00. This
amount is justifiable if the Engineering Services Department surveys only one project a year.
Recommendation
That the Engineering Services Department be authorized to purchase a Leica TCR305 Total
Station at the quoted price of $12,195.00 plus taxes including the trade in of our existing unit
and that these monies be taken from the Roads Reserve Account.
R SUBMISSION
MÆ NALD
CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER
7
RE~~i;¡t Y SUBMITTED
CLAYTON D. WATTERS, MANAGER
ENGINEERING SERVICES
REPORT TO ELGIN COUNTY COUNCIL
Cathy Bishop, Manager of Library Services
FROM:
1999
Fax Machine Usage Policy
27,
April
DATE:
SUBJECT:
Introduction
The fax machines located in branches of the Elgin County Library are available for the
public to use. The Library recognizes that through providing this service it can meet the
needs of those who need to fax information when local businesses or Municipalities are
closed as most libraries are open evening hours.
Discussion:
The price which branches charge for transmitting a fax are similar to those oflocal
business establishments so that the Library cannot be construed as competing with local
business.
The Canadian Copyright Act and CANCOPY restrictions apply to the faxing of printed
materials.
go into County Revenue.
Charges for faxing wil
Recommendation:
That the attached policy entitled "Elgin County Fax Machine Usage Policy" be approved.
21
Cathy B
Manager of Library Services
Respectfully submitted:
onald
Chief Administrative Officer
Approved for submission:
8
CB/cr
ELGIN COUNTY LIBRARY FAX MACHINE USAGE POLICY
The fax machines located in branches of the Elgin County Library are available for the
public to use. The Library recognizes that through providing this service it can meet
the needs of those who need to fax information when local businesses or
municipalities are closed as most libraries are open evening hours. The price which
branches charge for transmitting a fax are similar to those of local business
establishments so that the Library cannot be construed as competing with local
business
sending a fax:
Charges for
50
50
$1
$
Sendina:
Local call, one page
Each additional page
$2.50
$1.00
Long distance, one page
Each additional page:
00
$1
Receivina:
page:
Per
to the faxing of printed
restrictions apply
and CANCOPY
Act
Restrictions
The Canadian Copyright
materials
s prohibited
iterature
hate
pornographic, or
The faxing of obscene
1999
May 11
Passed by Elgin County Counci
"D~
ELGIN COUNTY FAX MACHINE USAGE POLICY
The fax machines located in branches of the Elgin County Library are available for the
public to use. The Library recognizes that through providing this service it can meet
the needs of those who need to fax information when local businesses or
municipalities are closed as most libraries are open evening hours. The price which
branches charge for transmitting a fax are similar to those of local business
establishments so that the Library cannot be construed as competing with loca
business.
Charges for sending a fax:
Sendin",:
50
50
$1
$
Local call, one page
Each additional page
$2.50
$1.00
Long distance, one page:
Each additional page:
00
$1
Receivinq:
Per page:
the faxing of printed
to
restrictions apply
and CAN COPY
Act
Restrictions
The Canadian Copyright
materials
iterature IS prohibited
9
hate
The faxing of obscene, pornographic, or
Prices for Faxin
Local Businesses
A vlmer:
4 businesses offer fax services.
Rates are very similar at all Aylmer locations.
Prices at 3 Dlaces:
Sending:
First page: $2.00
Additional page: $1.00
Receiving, each page: $1.00
4th Dlace listed a price to send a fax locally:
Per page: $1.00
Port Stanlev:
Send in!!::
Local:
First page: $1.50
Additional page: $1.00
Lon!!: Distance (Ont,)
First page: $2.50
Additional page: $1.50
Outside Ontario:
First page: $4.50
Additional page: $2.50
Others:
Bavham Municipal office and stores in Shedden and Fin!!:al:
Per page: $1.00
Dutton: Store which did faxing and scanning has gone out of business.
Scannin!!:
Any scanning prices quoted were quite high: i.e.$5.00. However, the scanning done at the library
will be used mainly by library users doing research for reports, school assignments, etc. and not
for commercial purposes as would many items scanned by a business.
10
J
1
St. Thomas:
Van Pelt's:
Sendinl!:
Local Call, per page: $ .50
Long Distance, per page: $1.00
Receivinl!:
Per page: $1.00
REPORT TO ELGIN COUNTY COUNCIL
Cathy Bishop, Manager of Library Services
FROM:
1999
Scanner Usage Policy
27,
April
DATE:
SUBJECT:
Introduction:
Scanners located in branches of the Elgin County Library have been placed there
for the public to use. The Library is addressing a need which has been expressed by the
community to provide an access point for the public to scan print material, pictures, etc.
into computer generated reports or documents.
Discussion
Transmission of pictures, graphs, etc. rrom print resources in the Library can be e-mailed
directly to a home or school computer or downloaded to a floppy disk, enabling students
to include these items in their school reports.
go into County Revenue.
Charges for scanning will
Recommendation
That the attached policy entitled "Elgin County Library Scanner Usage Policy" be
approved.
","
Cathy Bi: op
Manager of Library Services
Respectfully submitted
Mark McDonald
Chief Administrative Officer
Approved for submission
12
CB/cr
ELGIN COUNTY LIBRARY SCANNER USAGE POLICY
Scanners located in branches of the Elgin County Library have been placed there for
the public to use. The Library is addressing a need which has been expressed by the
community to provide an access point for the public to scan print material, pictures,
etc. into computer generated reports or documents.
Transmission of pictures, graphs, etc. from print resources in the Library can be e-
mailed directly to a home or school computer or downloaded to a floppy disk, enabling
students to include these items in their school reports.
e for scannin
Char'
$1,00
Per page
iterature is prohibited
Restrictions
The scanning of obscene, pornographic. or hate
1999
May 11
Passed by Elgin County Counci
VutIt
ELGIN COUNTY LIBRARY SCANNER USAGE POLICY
Scanners located in branches of the Elgin County Library have been placed there for
the public to use. The Library is addressing a need which has been expressed by the
community to provide an access point for the public to scan print material, pictures
etc. into computer generated reports or documents.
Transmission of pictures, graphs, etc. from print resources in the Library can be e-
mailed directly to a home or school computer or downloaded to a floppy disk, enabling
students to include these items in their school reports.
e for scannin
Char,
$1,00
Per page:
literature IS prohibited
13
Restrictions:
The scanning of obscene, pornographic, or hate
REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL
Louise M. Eastbury,
April 15, 1999
POOLING OF GROUP INSURANCE WITH OTHER MUNICIPALITIES
Supervisor
Payroll/Benefits
FROM:
DATE:
SUBJECT:
INTRODUCTIONIBACKGROUND
Group insurance premiums, especially health and dental, have escalated dramatically over the
5 years. On average, we have experienced iucreases in excess of 10%. A sub-committee of the
Golden Triangle Human Resources Association was formed in May of 1998 to review the concept of
volume purchasing arrangements to combat the escalating cost of group insurance. The basic
objective of volume purchasiug is to:
last
the volume purchasing power of the
~ Obtain
combined group
~ Reduce retention expenses by streamlining the administration and eliminating the need to
the most competitive costs for benefits through
but would not
underwrite each group separately
Provide access to underwriting arrangements that are financially advantageous,
otherwise be available to the municipalities individually
~ Achieve more liberal contractual provisions that would be available on a single-employer basis
~
Volume purchasing will not affect the unique benefit coverage of each municipality; each will be
able to retain its current level of benefits, In addition, each municipality's rates will still be based
on its own experience so that the poor experience rating of one municipality will not adversely
affect the others,
DISCUSSION
The advantages of consolidation will vary for each municipality. Although larger municipalities
may already realize some ofthe advantages of a consolidated program due to their size, it is
anticipated that there will still be some positive results such as further reduced cost through volume
discounts, Contractual provisions might include a flexible benefit program or a spending account
arrangement for a group of insured persons, Streamlined administration should occur under a
volume purchasing arrangement with one renewal date and one underwriting agreement. Best
practices will be investigated when implementing new procedures for day-to-day administration of
the plan,
offset the onetime
The group is confident that there are sustainable savings and such savings will
cost of the feasibility study.
CONCLUSION
As a result of escalating costs, the municipalities outlined in Appendix A wish to investigate the
possibility of a pooling arrangement for their respective group insurance benefits; specifically
extended health, dental, long term disability, life insurance and accidental death and
dismemberment coverage.
If
2
Louise M. Eastbury,
April 15, 1999
POOLING OF GROUP INSURANCE WITH OTHER MUNICIPALITIES
In order to assess the financial opportnnities of a consolidated program, a pilot stndy is reqnired to
determine the feasibility of pooled gronp insnrance. A call for proposal would be issued to retain
the services of a benefits consultant. This consultant would examine details of current benefits
levels, contractual agreements and underwriting arrangements for each municipality and provide
the group with an analysis of its findings. It is anticipated that this process would take four to six
months to complete,
Supervisor
Payroll1Benefits
FROM:
DATE:
SUBJECT:
would also examine the current rating structure and a detailed history of the claims
The Benefits Consultant will investigate the most cost-effective
The consultant
experience under each benefit.
method of managing the financial risk of group insurance,
It is estimated that the feasibility study will cost approximately $50,000, Payment will be
apportioned to each municipality based on the number of lives insured for life insurance. The
results will be presented to each council upon completion of the analysis. See Appendix A for
potential group participants.
RECOMMENDATION
THAT the County of Elgin participate in a feasibility study to investigate a group insurance
pooling arrangement with other area municipalities. The cost of the study will be shared
proportionately, based on the number oflives insured. The estimated cost for the County of
Elgin is $1,135.00, to be taken out of reserves,
Chief Administrative Officer
15
#48
5, 1999~ fepafl
Prepared LME - Apri
APPENDIX A
Assuming approval from all municipalities, professional fees will be shared as follows
MUNICIPALITY NUMBER OF LIVES % OF EST. COST
City of Cambridge 575 8.36
County of Elgin 156 2.27
City of Guelph 952 13.84
City of Kitchener 1381 20.08
Township of North Dumfries 18 0.26
City of SI. Thomas 273 3.97
City of Stratford 240 3.49
City of Waterloo 703 10.22
Region of Waterloo 2131 30.99
Township of Wellesley 15 0.22
County of Wellington 215 3.13
Township of Wilmot 33 0.48
City of Woodstock 147 2.14
Township of Woolwich 38 0.55
TOTAL 6877 100.00
16
REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL
M. Eastbury, Human Resources Department
29,1999
County Benefit Renewal
Louise
April
Elgin
FROM:
DATE:
SUBJECT:
1999
INTRODUCTIONIBACKGROUND
On April 20, 1999, representatives of Buffett Taylor & Associates Ltd., Benefits
Consultants, attended our offices and presented the results of their negotiations with our
benefits carriers for our yearly renewal.
limited
DISCUSSION
Buffett Taylor are pleased to report that as a result of their negotiations they have
the increases as follows:
No change to current rates
No change to current rates
No change to current rates
Increase based on Fee Guide
Extended Health Care
Semi-Private
Travel
Dental
LIBERTY HEALTH
change only
Life and Long Term Disability - the rates achieved through
last year's marketing were guaranteed until July 1. 1999.
The same rates are being held to the end of 1999.
MANULIFE
Dental rates
CONCLUSION
Our benefit rates are remaining the same other than the Dental premiums.
will be increasing approximately 3.2% as a result ofthe Fee Guide.
Taylor & Associates Ltd.. be adopted
RECOMMENDATIONS
That the premium rates as presented by Buffett
effective April 1. 1999.
Supervisor
Mark G. McDonald, Chief Administrative Officer
17
1999-rcport #49
29Apr
prepared LME
No change to current Health I Hospital rates.
No change to current Health I Hospital rates.
Proposed
Rate Premium % Change
$20.64 $41.28 8.18%
$44.70 $715.20 8.15%
$27.04 $243.36 8.16%
$58.43 $2,979.93 8.14%
$23.19 $115.95 7.11%
$50.23 $1,858.51 7.10%
$23.18 $0.00 7.12%
$50.21 $401.68 7.10%
$26.84 $53.68 8.14%
$58.38 $233.52 8.15%
$24.86 $24.86 8.13%
$53.80 $376.60 8.14%
$27.07 $0.00 8.15%
$58.54 $585.40 8.15%
$7,629.97 7.82%
18
Benefit
Health I Hospital
Travel
Lives
Dental
1551 2 S
16 F
5541 9 S
51 F
5541A 5 S
37 F
55418 0 S
8 F
5541C 2 S
4 F
55410 1 S
7 F
7052 0 S
10 F
Total Dental
ill!.A
1-551 R Current minus 1 year
5541 R Current
5541A - Current minus 2 years
5541 B R Current minus 2 years
5541C w Current
5541 D - Current minus 1 year
REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL
Information System
Louise Eastbury an,
April 29, 1999
Acquisition of A New Human Resource
d Jody Merritt
From:
Date:
Re
INTRODUCTIONIBACKGROUND
The County Human Resources Department has long recognized the need to reduce manual work and data
duplication and to provide immediate delivery of accurate human resources information for vital and
responsive decision-making. As early as 1994, this department began investigation into HRIS' designed to
automate, integrate and streamline such critical areas as
and our payroll
HR-driven payroll which will
provider Ceridian
attendance administration; accurate budget forecasting
unlimited historical work histories of all employee changes
salary administration; benefits administration
job evaluation; training/competency/skill/education inventories by job and employee
labour relations administration; health and safety
recruitment and applicant tracking
interface with our time and attendance system Kronos
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
generate detailed and customized reports on demand
maintain full security of data
easy to learn and easy to use, adaptable and flexible
provide expert technical customer support and training
furnish latest program enhancements
in addition
·
·
·
·
·
DISCUSSION
To realize the above standards and objectives, the Human Resources department, collectively, reviewed the
following three systems and has included for clearer illustration purposes a cost analysis of each system;
advantages/disadvantages of each and public sector user comments.
ComDanv
Software
Best Software, Ltd,
AbraHR
Did not respond with additional documentation after initial scheduled demonstration with our department.
·
HRTech Human Resources Technologies Inc.
Not the recommended system at this time in the County's opinion due to costs exceeding present budget
constrants, negative user comments and the incompatability with the existing payroll system.
19
SuperHR
·
of Final Costs
AbraHR DID NOT RESPOND ---
SuperHR APPROXIMATE COST - Well over 35,000.00
Info:HR TOTAL COST 25,000.00
Summa
Strategies
Advantae:es
(a) fully integrated, total Human Resources system with ongoing enhancements based on
user and legislative requirements
(b) InfoHR is fully year 2000 compliant, simple to install and compatible with existing
County of Elgin networks and operating system.
(c) comes with core modules in the areas of:
- department/job/position definition with position control
- time and attendance administration (i.e. projects manually performed to calculate
averages for sick times will be streamlined with this module)
- benefits adjustments; elaims management
- salary history administration; seniority tracking; pay equity
- job data tracking; staff record keeping
- performance review; skills inventory
- termination tracking; health and safety
(d) the system comes with additional features included in the cost indicated below:
HR Systems
InfoHR
a report writer; user defined security
export/import to payroll software, spreadsheet and wordprocessing programs
the cost of this system is well aligned with the approved County Human Resources budget
the system is an excellent management (i.e. labour relations issues such as grievances,
arbitrations, etc.)
positive public sector references and recol11l11endations to buy this program
(e)
(f)
Disadvantae:es
annual support fee for services during the support period of:
- unlimited, toll free support line; fax/modem cOl11l11unications support
- enhancement releases
cost of approximately $1,000 to upgrade Human Resources computers to handle
increased data rrequency
(g)
(a)
(b)
DISCUSSION
Clear, logical and timely information is critical and must be managed and administered with precision, care
and accuracy and the purchase of a properly engineered Human Resource Information System will enable the
Human Resources Department to generate and maintain such information and become more responsive to
service existing departmental needs. Also, through this significant purchase, the department will be in a
position to serve other municipal needs, such as the Health Unit should they require assistance with their
informational requirements in the future.
2
20
RECOMMENDATION
THAT the County purchase the InfoHR Human Resources Information System from HR Systems Strategies,
Inc., based on the positive reference and user comments from other public sector employers; the company's
extensive presence and expertise in the municipal sector; excellent customer service and follow-up and
because the system's cost is in line with the current automation budget.
Director of Human Resources
3
Mark McDonald
Chief Administrative Officer
21
REPORT TO COUNCIL
Director of Financial Services
Linda B. Veger,
FROM
1999
May 3
DATE
Year 2000 Budget (Y2K)
SUBJECT
ntroduction
The Y2K Committee has determined that the following upgrades to our
automation system are required in order to be Y2K compliant. Systems outside
of automation are currently being reviewed and a budget will be presented once
the replacement items have been determined.
Replacements
193.00
$8
Groupwise 5.5 (50 users)
2,500.00
Groupwise Server
16.029.00
Office '97
Fred Rouse, is
taxes
Mr.
piUS
A discussion and recommendation from our consultant,
attached for your information.
$26.722.00
Tota
Recommendation
THAT, in order to move towards Y2K compliancy, staff be directed to purchase
Groupwise 5.5, a server, and Office '97 at the lowest quoted price; and
of these
the cost
THAT the Mill Rate Stabilization Reserve be charged with
purchases
Approved for submission
, nald
Chief Administrative Officer
22
Respectfully submitted
~~&Ä
Linda B. Veger -
Director of Financial Services
05/03/1999
y2kbudge
System
Emai
n Coun
E
,
Background
For the last 4 years, the County Administration and Homes staff have used Microsoft Mail as
their Local Area Network email package. This email package has become obsolete and is not
being tested by Microsoft for Y2K compliance. This software has limited functionality allowing
users to only send LAN email. All email messages are stored on the user's local drive. This
causes problems when local drives are replaced due to repairs or upgrades as the user loses
their past em ail messages that have been saved. Because of these and Y2K issues with other
types of older email software, which have been tested, it is prudent for the County to replace
this software at this time.
For the past 2 years, the County has had Internet email.using software such as Netscape,
Outlook, Eudora and Pegasus. This software also has the same limitation as saving the user's
messages on a local hard drive. Each software package has it's own idiosyncrasies and is
more difficult for the IT staff to support.
RECOMMENDA TlON
A GroupWare product such as GroupWise is a wise investment for the County. GroupWare is
much more than just email.itis document management, document collaboration, scheduling of
resources such as meeting rooms, overheads etc., access from anywhere in the world where
there is a connection to the I nternet, and so on
BENEFITS OF GROUPWISE
Access all communications through the Universal Mailbox
Provide e-mail
Supports industry standard Entrust and PGP (Pretty Good Privacy) Internet security features
Provide document access, conversation, integration and security features
Enhance business collaboration over the Internet
Provide an interactive calendar for scheduling
Provide rules-based message management
Provide proxy access to the Universal Mailbox
Coordinate people and resources through group scheduling
Set and prioritize assignments with the task management feature
Initiate and manage collaboration processes with GroupWise WorkFlow
Save and circulate business contact information in vCard format
Create and maintain personal address books
Provide folder sharing and conversation threading
Access you Universal Mailbox with a Web browser
Protect the integrity of you system with password encryption
Enhance access to information in GroupWise documents with full-text indexing
End user support on the Internet
Lowest Total Cost of Ownership than leading competitors such as Exchange or
23
Notes
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
OFFICE 97 UPGRADE
BACKGROUND
The County is currently using Microsoft Office 4.2 standard and 4.3 professional as it's office
suite. This software is listed by Microsoft as non compliant for Y2K. Although most of the Y2K
issues are minor in nature, this software is becoming obsolete and needs to be upgraded. The
largest problem the County has with this older software is that we are often sent files in newer
formats and opening these documents takes either add-on software in the case of Word
documents or they cannot be opened at all, such as PowerPoint, Excel or Access.
RECOMMENDA T/ON
The County should upgrade to Office 97. Although there is a new version of Microsoft Office on
the market (Office 2000), it is still in it's infancy and there are numerous bugs in the software
which will take a year or two to work out.
24
BENEFITS
· Ability to easily collaborate with other Office 97 users
· No additional training required for staff
· Y2K compliant
· Better and dynamic spell check and grammer check
· Integration with HTML file formats
·
REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL
Mark G. McDonald,
Chief Administrative Officer
FROM:
1999
SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES FUND
May 4,
DA TE:
SUBJECT:
Introduction:
The County has received the attached letter and a cheque in the amount of $615,000.00
from the Chairman of the Management Board of Cabinet, the Honourable Chris Hodgson.
The Management Team has discussed possible uses for these funds, keeping in mind
that the Provincial Government expects these funds will be used for "the immediate
benefit of the taxpayer".
Discussion:
The following options are worthy of consideration and all or some combination of these
suggestions may be implemented to offset present and future costs. The options are in no
particular order of precedence
capital works on County roads
servicing the new Elgin Manor
reducing the carrying costs of funding the Elgin Manor rebuild
paying down the Heath Unit purchase thereby reducing interest payments
reserving the entire amount until after the Provincial election and then determining,
based on the next government's agenda, how to expend these funds
*
*
*
*
*
Other suggestions may
I
Conclusion:
These are some of the more obvious options available to Counci
be forthcoming from Members of Council.
Recommendation:
Council's Information
received and filed for
That this report be
ALL of which is respectfully sub~itted
25
Mark G. McDonald,
Chief Administrative Officer.
West
99WellesleySlreet
Room 5630
Toronto, Oil/ariD
M7A1W3
Circumstances Fund
Special
X99-1000
Log No
Tf;~~r-~¡::r;'~;:::;,':~t~,~,,":~,~:::;:;::--"ì
\'~;j(j~'
1999
April 20,
AP:[f 2'¡'
OOij1f!Y'i' III j£UYì~\
e,&g~~ß
Head of Counci
The County of Elgin
450 Sunset Dr.
St. ON N5R 5VI
Thomas,
-,
Dear Head of Counci
As Minister Eves indicated in his letter to you on March 23, 1999, the government has committed to one additional
year of Special Circumstances Funding. I am pleased to ¡nfonn you that The County of Elgin will be receiving
$615,000.00 from the 1999 Special Circumstances Fund (SCF).
To ensure that municipalitles can access these funds with minimal red tape, and to address the concerns relayed to me
by AMO, FONOM and NOMA, municipal councils will not have go through an application process.
may have been additional costs faced by
to meet new responsibilities.
Last year, we committed resources to the SCF with the knowledge that there
some municipalities as they managed the transition of realigning local services
The province is extending the SCF unconditionally, m recognition of the fact the transition has yet to be completed in
a number of areas. Municipalities have been good partners through this process to reduce costs without raisìng
property taxes, and to respond to their concerns, we have extended the SCF for this year only.
With the considerable support the province is accordmg to municipalities with SCF, the Municipal Restructuring Fund
and other funding sources, we are confident you will be able to continue improving local service delivery without
increasing property taxes.
immediate benefit of the
the
be used for
funds will
that these
By notifying you of your allocation now, we expect
taxpayer.
I anticipate that you will receive your funding cheque shortly. If you have any questions about the Special
Circumstances Fund, please call the Corporate Policy Secretariat in the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
at (416) 327-0620.
~
Sincerely,
d
It)
Hon. Chns Hodgson
Chair of Management Board of Cabinet and
Minister of Northern Development and Mines
® Ontario
1999
COUNCIL CORRESPONDENCE - MA Y 11TH.
Items for Consideration
Cora Hallsworth, Waste Reduction Week Co-Ordinator, Recycling Counci
of Ontario, announcing that November 1-7 is Waste Reduction Week
"Make Your R2K Resolution: Step Lightly Into 2000". (ATTACHED)
1
Mayor Hugh O'Reilly, Resort Municipality of Whistler, requesting the
support of the County of Elgin for a journey across Canada by John Ryan to
raise $5 Million for spinal cord regeneration research. (ATTACHED)
2.
rural
Township of Morris, with a resolution concerning
".,
j.., .
Nancy Michie, Clerk-Treasurer,
water quality programs.
3.
Apri
Mayor Van Brenk
The County ofElgln
,450 Sunset Dr. '
St. Thomas, ONN5R SV1
.i~
999
1
6;
'j
APR E,
Van Brenk,
Mayor
Dear
s
Re: Confirmi!tioh of The County of Elgin's Participi!tionin Wi!steReduction Week 199
On behalf of the Recycling Counç:iI of Ontario (RCO), I am pleased to announcethat this
year'sWaste Reduction Week (WRW) will be held November 1"- 7th. This year's theme
"Make Your R2KResolution:StepLightly into 2000":
Asithasforthe past 1S yèars, WRW'ssuccess In 1999 dependspn the participation and
support of municipalities, schools and businesses throug,hout Ontario.
Recycling
Council of
Ontario
489 College. Str~et
Suite ,504
Torontö, Ontario
M.6G IA5
Tel: (416) 960-1025
Fax: (416) 960-8053
Eri1ai¡, rco@web,net
Web site:
http://www.web.netlrco
WRW'99.by:
Week in The County of
The CountyofElgih's formal participation In
Officially dedaring November'1" to 7th Waste RedLiçtion
Elgin, and by forwårding me a copy of this declaration
am writing to,request
1
$2000.
Appointing ,a The County of ElginWRW Cò-ordinator tòact as a liaison withRCO
and havethemfill out theenclösed Community Event Registration Form
Supporting WRW '99 withafinånçial cOntribution of$500
2
3
An ovelView of the WRW '99tnitiativès for Which RCO will beproviçJing support is
enclosed for your information. Working together, YOur Coordinator and twill ensure that
resourCes are provided to your communitý efficiently and that RCO receives feedbåck
regarding any specialconcerns¡ interests or circumsíantes in your municipality.
WRW '99.
,to ensure a highly successful
(J2Sext. 11 ,or by ernail a,
look forward to working withThe CountyofElgin
Please contact me witnany questions at (416) 960-1
tora@rco.on.ca.
Sincerely,
@jJ
weekCo-ordinatör
Cora Hallsworth
Waste Reduction
End.
11'lp~r ç,m!alns ¡om!,' p{"t'con"umcr; olm-ddn],
recyd~d nh",< (n<~ d,i"r;nc IMachc'< ),
Papurdon"WdtóaCO¡'yIlliHA''',d,,!c""
',1
28
Re,duce
Reuse
Recycle
!)þ~
.....-_-~- ,
<"', ,'{t, .,'"' ,.~ rïijt'rJŒfID
""1'- '''';;0 \
1&, ". ~,It.:: ;;¡,. ,n
~ !» ~'" ~ , ~
I ,'.,;¡,
.~
1999
Ctì:~mY flf afJJ\I
~U~~'3 iWK~~
APR¡¿.J
6,1999
Warden Clutterb,
County of Elgin
450 Sunset Driv"
St. Thomas, ON N5R 5VI
ack
Apri
a journey
is embarking on
Whistler residents who
cord regeneration research.
Clutterback:
I am writing to you with a request for your support for one of our
across Canada in an attempt to raise $5 Million for spinal
Warden
Dear
lose his spirit. Despite
John considers
but he did not
in his real estate career.
A few years ago John Ryan lost the use of his legs through a tragic car accident
being disabled John returned to work and continued being a top producer
himself to be a lucky man in life and woald like to give something back.
Following considerable training and preparation John plans to hand cycle across Canada, starting ITom St. John's,
Newfoundland, on May I, 1999 and returning to Whistler mid September.
that a cure for spinal cord injuries is a matter of when not !I and
support. It is very possible that a Canadian research team could be
in Canada,
John believes, as do the top researchers
that the determining factor is a matter of financial
the one that breaks the barrier.
am asking for your help and that of your support and media I PR personnel in reaching your constituents to support
this very worthy cause. On the following page I have outlined some ways that, by supporting this tour, it would be a
Irwin! win!" situation for all involved.
This tour is quite an undertaking but John has a strong belief in himself and his ability to succeed, as do all of us who
know him, and I would like to see everything come together to make the tour a success.
I realize how many requests you receive annuallyfrolU many equally good cáuses. I hope that you will come to tbe
conclusion that John Ryan's Regeneration Tour can benefit all of us across Canada and assist us with your support.
ITee at
Please let us know if you will help. You may call Ann Yauniskis at the Regeneration Tour Headquarters, tol
1-800-570-3222 or myself at the Municipal Hall. Yoa may also wish to visit the tour web site at:
www.RegenerationTour.org.
much appreciated.
Your attention to this reqaest is
Regards,
4'dL
Best
Hugh O'Reilly
Mayor
29
4325 BLACKCOMB WAY, WHISTLER, B.C. VON 184
TELEPHONE (604) 932-5535 VANCOUVER DIRECT 688-6018
ENGINEERING I PARKS (604) 932-6734 FINANCE (604) 932-6217 PUBLIC WORKS YARD (604) 932-7124
ADMINISTRATION I CLERKS (604) 932-6636 BUILDING (604) 932-5560
MEADOW PARK SPORTS CENTRE (604) 932-3660
FAX: PLANNING
JOHN RYAN
regenera titan
TOUR
WAYS TO SUPPORT JOHN RYAN'S REGENERATION TOUR
The following ideas would greatly benefit the tour as well as provide photo &
media opportunities
Meet and greet John and road crew as they enter municipality
Mayor rides spare "hand cycle" a short way through town along side John
Encourage council members to meet and ride with tour
Participate in public presentations to John and the Regeneration Tour
Encourage citizens to greet the tour and ride their bikes through town with
the tour
Help arrange media coverage on local radio and television and in
newspapers
Organize RCMP and / or Firemen to escort tour through town
Communicate with local real estate boards and offices who are
participating in the Real Estate Program for the Regeneration Tour*
Contact local service clubs to help hand out brochures and collect
donations on route
Encourage organizations to allocate a percentage of funds raised from
current fund raising events to the tour
Include tour in planned public events and activities that coincide with tour
schedule
Encourage public support and fund raising activities
Challenge another town/city to a friendly competition for most participation
Provide photos, articles, etc. to the tour headquarters so that we may
promote your municipality on the tour web site
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
10
12.
13.
14.
6
9
11
7
8
Real Estate boards and offices across Canada are participating in a national support campaign.
,,;Í>J,¡.
)1 .~
..~,¡$
,.,L,
Tour Headquarters: #209 - 4368 Main St, Whistler, Britisb Columbia, Canada VON 1 B4
Tel: 604-905-6911 Fax: 604-905-6922 Donations: 1-800-570-3222
E-Mail: ann@ReaenerationTour,or< www.RegenerationTour,org
30
Page 882
CLERK-Elgin Co
1 519 633 7661
ASSOCIATION OF?->
EST;
85/88/99 23:B6:15
01
P
CORPORATION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF MORRIS
91
69716
41
NO,
FAX
AMO
05:20 PM
MAY-07-99 FR
(Mrs.) Nancy Michie. A.M.C.T.
Clerk-Treasurer
R.H. 4. BRUSSELS. ONTARIO
NOG 1HO
FAX: (519) 887-6424
April 13,1999
867·6137
(519)
TEL:
the Provinee of Ontario
Program to provide Financial Assistance for
"Rural Water Quality Improvement"
To: All Rural Municipalities within
Subject
Please be advised that at its meeting held on April 6,1999, the Morris Township
Council approved the fan owing resolution and hereby solicit the support of all rural
Municip<llities in the )'rovince of Ontario.
Edna McLenan
IlIe Province of Ontario in conjunction with the Conservation AUlhority
lad Î.Il plaoe a "Curb Program" to improve water quality;
Seconded by
Movcd by Keith Johnston
"Whereas
previously
farmers to improve
financially aided many
Aud Whereas the "Curb Program"
Wfiler quality in the rural areM;
And Whercas the "Curb Program" provided awareness of methods to improve
Farming practices, which aided to improve thc Water Qualiry in Rural Areas;
And Whereas with the Farming Practices intensifying, protection of the
Waler quality is a valuable resource'
resident in Ontario,
beneñt every
impro~ed water qualilY wi
Fllture:
And Whercas
Now and in the
And Whereus Ihe Township of MOrTis Council would like to see a program
Jmplamented for" Rural Water Quality rmprovement";
Now therefore be II resolved Ihat thc Township of MOrTis peritions ~\e Provincial
Government to implement a "Rural Water Quality Improvement" program;
And that this resolution be forwarded to the Premier Michael Harris and the
Minister of Agricullure, Food and Rural Affairs and the Association of Municipalitiès
of Ontario:
rora1 u'\unicipa1ities,
And further that this resolution be circulated ro the local MPP and al
in Ontario urging the endorsemcnt and support this resolution."
Carried.
On behalf of the Morris Township Council your fhvourable consideraticn ofthe above
menlioned resolulion would be greatly appreciated.
Shollld you havc any q\lcSlions concerning thls resolution, please contact Ihe Morris Township
Munidpal0ffice ·519-887-6137.
;jours truly,
", "
.,~......."." ~.
NancyM1chie ~.
ThiJi material is provided under contract 8.S a paid service by the originating organization, and does not
necessarily reflect the views or positions of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), its
subsidiary conlpanies. officers,_ direetors or agents.
1999
COUNCIL CORRESPONDENCE - MA Y 11TH
enda
'Consent A
Items for Information
The Honourable Janet Ecker, Minister of Community and Social Services
congratulating the City of St. Thomas on being designated as the Ontario
Works delivery agent. (ATTACHED)
1
The Honourable Isabel Bassett, Minister of Citizenship, Culture and
Recreation, regarding $1 Million new funding to support Internet
connectivity for public libraries. (ATTACHED)
2
Susan E. Dunn, Board Secretary, Environmental Assessment Board
regarding rescheduling of the preliminary hearing of a Provisional
Certificate of Approval for Waste Disposal. (ATTACHED)
3.
The Honourable AI Leach, Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
regarding extended deadline for Local Services Realignment (LSR)
program costs. (ATTACHED)
4.
Harold B. Rudy, Manager, Program Division, with a summary from the
Focus Group on Nutrient Management Planning workshops. (ATTACHED)
5.
Anthony Zwig, President, Horizon Legacy, outlining their services as a
consultant for health care facilities and finance and construction
management. (ATTACHED)
6.
Anniversary
Donna Rupert, President, Elgin Historical Society, regarding the "Talbot
Dinner" to be held on Friday, May 21, 1999.
7.
regarding an Interim Management
Henry Valks, Park Superintendent, Ontario Parks
Statement for Port Bruce Provincial Park.
8
9. AMO Member Communication ALERT, re: "OMERS Surplus Plan Announcement-
Contribution Holiday Extended" and "1999 Ontario Budget".
The Honourable Ernie Eves, Minister of Finance, concerning the 1999 Local Services
Realignment (LSR) with respect to the sharing of residential education tax room
3J
10.
<0,",::'
C~sS
IM~I~
~QJ11 ~ ~
.,...,.
Ontario
CITY OF ST. THOMAS
IoJŒ®Œ~WŒ~
lJ1J APR 12 1999 I.~
MAYOR
.--...----.."-.....--'-"'!!.
r I~"
I cnfJ,~rrì' {vf ÐJìJ£l
L-Aj,MI~'¥f~ ~'1?rW~~1?
: . ¡ . "·,¡1.,,:'~Ifi,
15
APR
Mlnlstère des
Services SOCi8UX
et communautaires
Bureau du Ministre
Édiflee Hepburn
Queen's Park
Torento ON M7 A 1 E9
(416) 325·5225
,
,
Ministry of
Community and
Socl.1 Service.
Office of the Minister
Hepburn Block
Queen's Park
Toronto ON M7 A 1 E9
(416) 325·5225
April 1, 1999
Mayor Stephen Peters
City of St. Thomas
P. O. Box 520
Thomas. ON N5P 3V7
Mayor Peters,
I wish to congratulate you and your colleagues on being designated as the Ontario Works
delivery agent for the City of St. Thomas. Your success in developing a plan to create a
consolidated system for delivering Ontario Works, child care and co-ordinating the cost-
sharing arrangements for social housing, is highly commendable Thank you for your energy
and perseverance in accomplishing this historic achievement
Dear
Together we are reducing the number of service delivery managers for Ontario Works from
196 to 47. The rewards of consolidation of municipal service management will be a more
efficient and cost-effective system of social and community health services, higher quality
services and easier access for clients. Taxpayers will benefit from the elimination of waste and
manner for the delivery of these services. In the end, we will
duplication by having a s
all benefit from this endeavour.
ingle
I recognize the considerable time and effort that you have devoted to the successful completion
of this phase of consolidation. Together we will continue to improve the management and
delivery of social services for the benefit of clients and taxpayers
Sincerely
Janet Ecker
Minister
32
~
~
Ontario
Ministère des Affaires civiques,
de la Culture et des Loisirs
Ministre
Ministry of Citizenship,
CultUre and Recreation
Minister
69 étage
77 rue Bloor ouest
Toronto ON M7 A 2R9
Tél. : (416) 325-6200
Té/éc. : (416) 325·6195
6th Floor
77 Bloor Street West
Toronto ON M7A 2R9
Tel.: (416) 325-6200
Fax: (416) 325-6195
t-,r-::¡n:lrfr
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. ! ¡; ~ J 1
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APR 13 1~~~ ,J!
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UL__
1999
Ms Cathy Bishop
Chief Executive Officer
Elgin County Library
450 Sunset Dr
St. ThoDJas, ()ntario
N5R 5Vl
April 6,
Dear Ms Bishop:
I am pleased to take this opportunity to provide you with good news about govermnent support
for public library services in Ontario.
First, I want to announce an exciting new initiative for libraries that underlines this govermnent's
pledge to public library service in an electronic age. Beginning in 1999/00, the. govermnent will
be providing an additional $1 million in new funding to support Internet connectivity for public
libraries. This new ongoing support recognizes the important role libraries play in providing
Ontarians with access to the wealth of information available through the Internet. Further details
of how the new funding will be administered will be available in the spring.
I also want to give you early information on the rest of the funding for the public libraries sector
in 1999/00. Total support to the sector will be $29,813,100, which represents a 2.75 per cent
increase in funding over the last fiscal year. The funding includes:
$1,000,000
Internet Connectivity Funding for Public Libraries
$18,590,100
$950,800
Operating Grants for Public Libraries
Operating Grants and Developmental Support for First Nations
Libraries
./2
$9,272,200
Other Support
(funding for Ontario Library Service agencies,
Toronto Reference Library, Ontario Library Association,
Library Strategic Development Fund, and Pay Equity)
3.3
,
2
The government is also continuing with its commitment to protect pay equity funding. The pay
equity program will be maintained at the $500 million annuallevel and a $150 million one-time
payment is being made available to cover retroactive proxy pay equity adjustments. The
government is absorbing the cost of proxy pay equity for fiscal year 1998/99. This is the highest
level of support for pay equity ever provided by an Ontario government.
The government is deferring to 1999/00 the redistribution of funds from organizations using the
job-to-job/proportional value pay equity method to proxy pay equity agencies. At that time, the
government will redistribute available pay equity funds in a fair and equitable manner to achieve
a balance between employees' rights to pay equity and the ability of taxpayers to pay for it. In
recognition that pay equity is part of the cost of doing business, from 1999/00 onwards, pay
equity funding will be flowed with your operating funding.
sent to you in March.
I would like to take this opportunity to express once again my appreciation for, the important
contribution that the public libraries sector makes to the lives of all Ontarians. The dedicated
work of library staff, trustees and the Ontario Library Service is vital to ensuring Ontarians have
access to the information they require to thrive in this digital age.
Your pay equity funding for 1998/99 was
Sincerely,
v,~
34
Isabel Bassett
Minister
Commission des évaluations environnementales
Commission d'appel de 'environnement
Environmental Assessment Board
Environmental Appeal Board
C\', ft;
E4 \ ~
, t>
Tól.: (416) 314-4600 \
Tólóc.: (4161314-4506 '
www.ert.gov.on.ca \ " ""'''1 !Yf. H } I
. "'1<11' "-'
lI·it..'", r."·;/'\)!:
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Ontario
C.P.2382
2300, rue Yonge
Bureau 1201
Toronto ON M4P
P.O.80x2382
23OOYonge St
Sune 1201
Toronto ON M4P 1E4
,C;:!.;9
APR 2, 1
Tel: (416) 314-4600
Fax: (416) 314-4506
www.ert.gov.on.ca
NOTICE OF ADJOURNMENT AND RESCHEDULING OF HEARING
In the matter of sections 137, 140 and 144 of the Environmental Protection Act, as
amended, and
In the matter of an appeal by Green Lane Landfill, A Division of St. Thomas
Sanitary Collection Service Limited dated February 16, 1999 for a hearing
before the Environmental Appeal Board with respect to the terms and conditions
of a Provisional Certificate of Approval for a Waste Disposal Site located at Parts
of Lot 21,22 and 23, Concession III, Township of South wold, County of Elgin,
Ontario.
Upon the Order of the Board dated April 16, 1999, the preliminary hearing in this matter
scheduled to be held on May 6, 1999 at 9:30 a.m. has been adjourned to Monday, May 10, 1999
at 10:00 a.m. to be held in the Council Chambers, Corporation of the County of Elgin,
450 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas, Ontario. The main hearing in this matter scheduled to be held on
June 2, 1999 at 9:30 a.m. has been adjourned to Wednesday, Jnne 9, 1999 at 10:00 a.m. to be
held in the Council Chambers, Corporation of the County of Elgin, 450 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas,
Ontario and will continue, ifnecessary, on June 10 and 11, 1999.
TAKE NOTICE that the rescheduled dates for this hearing are peremptory to all parties. If you
do not attend at this hearing and identity yourself to the Board, the Environmental Appeal Board
may proceed in your absence and you may not be entitled to any further notice of these
proceedings.
DATED at TORONTO, this 16th day of April, 1999.
3fi
98-118
FILE:
416-863-2101
lti
-=>I;....F""
Ontario
Please Call
Elgin
Warden
In Case of Transmission Difficulties
The County of
Rein VanBrenk
Ministère des
Affaires munlclpale.
et du Logeman!
Bureau du minlstre
]77 I\J. Bay
Toronto ON M5G 2E5
Tél (416) 585-7000
Please Deliver To
Office of !he Mlnls!er
777 Bay S!reeI
Toronto ON M5G 2E5
Tel (416) 585-7000
1999
Ministry of
Municipal Affairs
and Housing
April 29,
Dear Head of Council:
On March 23, the Honourable Ernie Eves, Minister of Finance, wrote to you to advise of
the government's decision to cost share 50 per cent of the approved municipal costs of
public health and land ambulance services, effective January 1, 1999
Since then, several municipalities have indicated the need for more time to incorporate
reduced Local Services Realignment (LSR) program costs, particularly reduced land
ambulance and public health costs as a result of the new cost-sharing arrangements, and
any recently allocated Special Circumstances Funding into their budgetary calculations
For municipalities that may need more time to incorporate this information into their
1999 decision making, the government has decided to extend the deadline for passing
upper-tier rating by-laws until June 30, 1999. A regulation will be filed shortly to give
effect to this change.
The government trusts that this addition a] time may be helpful for some municipalities to
pass the significant savings from reduced LSR program costs on to their taxpayers.
36
Sincerely,
:$
MAY
.. ,"3
._~ø:~
~~~
ON
I
T
I
Co A L
RONMENTAL
I
ENV
FARM
o
I
ONTAR
1999
27,
April
(519) 826-4214
1-800-265-9751
Ontario Soil and Crop
Improvement Association
1
Stone Rd. W.
ONNIG4Y2
FAX: 826-4224
EcMail: hrudy@ontariosoilcrop.org
Guelph,
Rene VanBrink
Administrative Building
450 Sunset Drive
St. Thomas, Ontario
N5P 3V7
Dear Rene
On behalf of the Ontario Farm Environmental Coalition, thank you for participating in the Focus Groups
on Nutrient Management Planning. Your time and effort in participating is very much appreciated.
Please find enclosed, a summary of the comments from these workshops.
These workshops were designed to provide information to the Ontario Farm Environmental Coalition.
They did not establish consensus. The findings of these workshops, along with further research will be
the basis for the Ontario Farm Environmental Coalition to consider ways for improving the Nutrient
Management Planning Strategy.
me.
If you have any questions or if! can be offurther assistance to you, please do not hesitate to contact
Thanks again for your participation.
Sincerely,
Harold B. Rudy
Manager, Program Division
/mbf
(\\NTlJRVI\MFRIINCÐDOCUM~NTS\MERG~1.E1\FOCUS3.TY.DOC)
37
encl
Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario (519) 837*1620
Ontario Farm Animal Council (905) 821-3880
.
.
the Environment) (519) 837-1326
Ontario Federation of Agriculture (416) 485*3333
&
AGCare (Agricultural Groups Conœ1'ucd About Resources
ONTARIO SOIL AND CROP IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION
1 Stone Road West, Guelph, Ontario N1G 4Y2
1999
(519) 826-4214
1-800-265-9751
FAX: 826-4224
E-Mail: OSCIA@ontariosoilcrop.org
1
April
Focus Group Participants
OSCIA NMP Study Team
MEMORANDUM TO
FROM:
Comments from the focus group sessions regarding
NMP and Societal Assurance in Ontario
SUBJECT:
Ontario nutrient
Objective of the Meetings:
Investigate options for enhancing
Management Strategy
To examine possible ways by which society could be assured of the integrity ofNMP
To determine how reasonable or unreasonable these methods were for the farming community
the
implementation of
the development and
Midhurst
Approximately 250 local producers, municipal planning staff, municipal politicians,
OMAFRA staff, stakeholders
Stratford, Petrolia,
Brighton, Woodstock, Clinton, Fergus,
Kemptville,
Attendance:
Locations
Questions addressed:
The following were discussed during the focus group sessions:
What do you think should be included in the development of a Nutrient Management Plan?
What do you feel are reasonable recommendations to consider in the handling of complaints to
provide a comfortable level of societal assurance?
What do you feel are reasonable recommendations to consider in the implementation of the
nutrient management plan (NMP) to provide a comfortable level of societal assurance?
What do you feel are reasonable recommendations to consider in the enforcement of the nutrient
management plan (NMP) / (consequences) to provide a comfortable level of societal assurance?
I.
2.
3
4.
./2
38
-2-
Summary of responses:
NMP Development - Most participants felt that a NMP should be developed on a voluntary basis.
Opinions varied as to who should complete a plan - some felt that all farmers should be included, while
others preferred that NMP development should be triggered by a change in operation or a threshold
number - for example, as a building permit requirement, number of animal units, animal units per acre
of land - or used for livestock or larger farms only. At all locations, concerns were voiced that ALL
properties receiving nutrients (including non-farm, rural lands such as golf courses and parks) should
be included in NMP development. Most participants favoured a "phasing in" of NMPs. Several
approaches to 'phasing-in' were suggested: ego from livestock operations to cash crop to all properties;
from large operations to smaller to all, etc. Farmers preferred to develop their own plans, possibly with
assistance in the form ofNMP education/workshops and/or certification courses as opposed to hiring
a private consultant to complete a plan. Peer or 3rd party (OMAFRA) review ofNMPs was advocated.
Other comments were made as to what percentage of the land should be owned (as opposed to rented)
by the farmer, and that "development agreements" between the farmer and local agencies could be used
when making NMPs. Regarding the 'land ownership' issue - some farmers were opposed to the idea that
a substantial amount of the land to be used for manure application should be owned. They felt that this
discriminated against operators with lower cash flows (eg. those just starting up a farming operation)
and might encourage farmers to spread more manure on less land, rather than attempting to use a more
balanced, scientific 'manure per land base' approach.
Regarding the content of a NMP, most agreed that the plan should include annual records to show due
diligence on the part of the farmer, and that these plans could be updated every 3 to 5 years or when a
change in the operation occurs. Education, through publications and workshops similar to the pesticide
courses, were favoured to disseminate NMP information. A sliding scale of complexity, depending on
the operation, was suggested. There should be acceptable provincial standards on which to base NMP
decisions - many advocated basing NMPs on soil tests. All nutrients (not just manure) should be
accounted for in a comprehensive plan. Land which receives nutrients could be documented, and NMPs
filed with the local municipality.
Society should support the costs associated with NMP development, including the dollars required for
aåequatetestirtg ofsoil/manurê. Financialsúpport could extend to areas of research which could directly
benefit farmers and their NMPs - for example, applied research on stabilizing manure (odours), N
application and testing, on-farm tests and demonstrations.
Some farmers indicated that financial contributions were necessary to demonstrate society's
commitment to sustainable farming, environmental quality and the NMP process. Others felt that the
average producer does not want NMPs to be imposed, and that this was adding too much bureaucracy.
Implementation of a NMP Most participants agreed that communication with the neighbours and
notification before manure-spreading operations (within reason) were good common-sense approaches
to proactively dealing with potential nuisance complaints. The practice of 'good neighbour 'policies
was discussed at all meetings, with some variance on agreement as to just how far a farmer should be
expected to go in terms of communication and consensus, without unduly compromising his/her
operation. Some farmers voiced the concerns that, in some cases, non-farm rural residents were not fully
~~
misunderstanding could lead to
-3-
aware of what constituted 'normal' farming practices and this
unnecessary by-laws and restrictions placed on the farmer.
Maintaining good nutrient application records was another generally agreed-upon method of providing
assurance and proving due diligence. Education and/or certification of applicators was seen as
reasonable. There was general consensus that custom applicators should be certified, but a greater range
of opinion as to whether this should extend to farmers. Concerns were expressed that NMP
implementation should not be confined to farmers, and that golf courses and other non-farm rural
properties should be included. Restrictions also should apply to urban sewage treatment lagoons.
Education of NMP benefits should be conveyed to the general public, through displays and
demonstration sites. One recommendation was to more effectively use a combined Environmental Farm
PlanINMP format as an educational as well as planning tool.
Suggestions were made to combine the Environmental Farm Plans,
as part of a more comprehensive approach.
and Pesticide certification
NMPs
Monitoring ofNMPs was preferably done by the farmer, by peer groups and/or by local government.
Others commented that self-monitoring alone was not acceptable to society. Record keeping was an
important/essential component. Routine monitoring of ALL farms' NMPs by was seen to be
unreasonable and unfeasible. There was some discrepancy as to whether audits ofNNlPs should be done
on a random basis or on the basis of complaints. Some felt that notice should be given prior to records
being viewed.
with 3-year
Other comments included:
The calibration of application equipment is a necessity.
Monitoring/policing agencies require adequate funding.
Courses/certification training should be financially supported by society. Land agreements
renewals should be registered.
All rural land owners should participate in NMPs.
Standards/laws should be reasonable and enforceable.
Handling of Complaints - Local advisory committees should be established to handle complaints and
advise the municipal, provincial and federal governments. There should be financial support for these
committees, perhaps in the form of per diem payments. Concerns were voiced as to the liability of the
local advisory group, and comments were made as to whether or not locai committees should be
provided with some form of insurance against litigation. Some participants said that existing structures
should be used to handle complaints, and that additional levels of bureaucracy should not be created.
Regarding the complaints: most areas agreed that these should be written and signed, and submission
fees could potentially be charged.
As for protocol in dealing with complaints: some participants felt that local peer committees should be
the first group to deal with complaints - other groups commented that complaints could first be
collected/screened through the municipal government, then sent out to the most appropriate
committee/government body (eg. peer review committee, OMAFRA, MOE, Normal Farm Practices
Review Board, etc.), depending on the nature and severity of complaint.
A range of opinions were expressed as to who should deal with complaints. Options included local
committees, local/provincial governments, farm review boards, Conservation Authorities and impartial
groups from outside of the local community.
40
-4-
Enforcement for NMPs - Most participants indicated that the current legislation needs to be enforced,
or enjorced,rr¡ore efficiently. Some suggested that MOE was not able to provide enforcement due to
recent cutbacks and budgetary constraints, and should be given more funds/resources to enforce existing
legislation. There was some concern that province-wide regulations and controls were needed to provide
consistency, and that the legislative authority needed to be improved to deliver this legislation. Clear
guidelines are required from the province in order that counties and municipalities can address NMP-
related enforcement. The Planning Act could be modified through legislation to deal more effectively
with NMP issues, and provisions in the Municipal Act should allow local governments to administer
NMP-related regulations. Local governments should be given the appropriate legislative authority fòr
NMPs. It was suggested that for local municipalities might need additional training/education to deal
specifically with NMP issues.
Repeat offenders should be fined, and made to 'clean up' there operations. Most participants felt that
it was a relatively few operations that were causing most of the problems regarding nutrient
management. Some suggested a possible threat of 'loss of certification'or enforced 'shut down' as
added incentive to comply with environmental standards. In addition, ALL nutrient polluters should be
considered, not just farmers.
NMPs should NOT be registered to the title of the land.
Other comments included thefollowing;
No more legislation was needed.
NMPs should fall under the 'right to farm' act
Warning should be given prior to fines being levied.
The province should provide funding support for the monitoring ofNMPs and/or provincial inspectors
to enforce NMP compliance through fines.
41
1999
5
April
Elgin Manor
R.R. #1, 39232 Fingal Line
St. Thomas, Ontario
N5P 3S5
Ms. Marilyn Fleck, Acting Director
Attention
CONSULTING FOR
I
MANAGEMENT
Fleck:
FINANCING AND CONSTRUCTION
HEALTH CARE FACILITIES
Dear Ms
RE:
Further to our discussion recently, I am enclosing information on our company and an outline
of how we can be of service to you
Background
For over forty years, we have built and financed many of Toronto's major landmarks for our
own account. This means, we have built and financed major buildings for ourselves as the long
term owner wherein we have then had to live with the operational ramifications of design,
construction, financial decisions made at the development stage for the over 20 years life of a
building. This is a perspective very distinct from that of the traditional contractor or lender.
As you can appreciate, both the present and long term implications of construction design
decisions are very important. Projects we have completed and owned include the Y onge Eglinton
Centre, Atrium on Bay, National Trust and One Financial Place.
This is a very different understanding than that of a traditional builder or architect and is one
reason we always have our own team on a project, even when we use an outside contractor. We
have found it imperative to monitor every project closely from the design stage onward, to
protect ourselves from the contractors and architects missing things of importance from our
viewpoint as owner.
long term owner.
The discussion regarding the unique help we can bring to construction, also applies to the
financing. Finance negotiation is a sophisticated endeavour. We have many years of experience
in negotiating many loan sizes, again for our own account where we have had to live with the
long term effect of our negotiations. We would represent you using our borrower experience
which is distinct from that of any lender. For example, we have negotiated financings from $1
million to over $220 million
we have built over 7 million feet of space as
To recap
HORIZON LEGACY GROUP
Real Estate Development & Management
210
18 King Street East, Suite
Toronto, Ontario M5C 1 C4
Phone: (416) 864-9977
Fox: (416) 864-9568
42
The contractor (like the banker or architect) is creating transactions he does everyday and is more
familiar with, than most traditional customers. We" even" the playing field with our experience
working for you
In conelusion, we are very interested in working with you on your planned expansions or
renovations and know we can help you more securely reach your construction and financing
objectives. This can extend to creating and executing plans for creating positive cash flows
through leasing space to third parties or clinics. This concept provides the benefit of creating
cashflow without any capital outlay by you
this further with you shortly
I look forward to discussing
Yours truly
HORIZON LEGACY GROUP
¿;~/
Anthony Zwig
President
13
AZ/mp
Horizon Brochure
enel
TZ:em-mf
To:
The Elgin Historical Society is pleased to announce that it
will be hosting a "TALBOT ANNIVERSARY DINNER" at 6 p.m. on Friday
May 21, 1999 at the st. Thomas Seniors Complex, Chestnut Street st.
Thomas.
The Talbot Anniversary Dinner is a tradition that dates back
to the early days of the Talbot Settlement. The Dinner celebrates
the arrival of Colonel Thomas Talbot at Port Talbot in 1803, and
the legacy that his Talbot Settlement has given to the history of
Southwestern Ontario. The first Talbot Anniversary Dinner was held
in his honour, in St. Thomas in 1817.
special Guest Speaker for the evening will be one "William
Lyon MacKenzie" portrayed by Mr. David Morris of Newmarket.
Mr. Morris has portrayed several other historical persons
including Tecumseh and Sir John A. McDonald.
Tickets for the evening are $25.00 per person and are
available from Elgin Historical Society Members or by calling 519-
0?/3øðtþ Social hour begins at 6 p.m. Dinner will be served at 7
p.m. with the speaker to follow.
We invite you to attend this "historic event
Yours Sincerely,
f1:;~V)~ 120 ---
Donna Rupert,
President Elgin Historical Society
Park
Fax 874 4104
Provincia!
Port Burwel
P.O. Box 9
Port Burwell Ontano
NO! !TO
Phone 519 874 4601
ONTARIO
PARKS
rÜ"\;:·7:~:~::'-'.----7""-"
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OO¡¡¡iUV I}f ElfìlN
::H~:;,j''ti ,f!'Ir8.ð;/;f~,!;
",'iL"':(l: " ,vu,<~t.
3
MAY
1999
Elgin County Administrative Office
450 Sunset Dr.
St. Thomas, Ontario
N5R 5V1
29,
April
May Concern:
Ontario Parks will be undertaking an Interim Management Statement for Port Bruce Provincial. If
you require additional information or have any concerns please contact us. The enclosed highlights
will give you information on the process.
It
Whom
To
Sincerely,
/þ,"1 j~
® Ontario
Henry Valks
Park Superintendent
Natural Resources
Ministry of
Ontario Parks to consult with the public on an Interim Management Statement for Port Bruce Provincial
Park Ontario Parks, Ministry of Natural Resources, invites the public to participate in a process to develop
an Interim Management Statement for Port Bruce Provincial Park. The public consultation process is
slaled 10 occur over the spring and sununer of 1999, coinciding with the seasonal return of both property
owners and park users. The Interim Management Statement will govern all activities occurring within the
park and will focus on custodial management requITed to protect park values and ensure public health and
safety. The planning process will consider various proposals generated both from within the conununity
and by Ontario Parks. Proposals for landscaping projects, beach sand stabilization, a sport/play court,
reconfigured parking, and new washrooms are the primary issues to be addressed through public
consultation. A Port Bruce Provincial Park Preliminary Interim Management Statement and an associated
questionnaire will be released to the public during May. An informal open house has been scheduled on
the 24th dav of Mav. 1999 of the Victoria Dav weekend, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., at the Port Bruce
Sunday School Hall located on Imperial Road in the conunutrity of Port Bruce. Copies of the preliminary
document and associated background material will be available for the public to review and discuss with
Ontario Parks' staff. Public participation is encouraged. Conunents received before June 30, 1999 will be
fully considered in the preparation of a final Interim Management Statement. For further information
please contact: Henry Valks, Park Superintendent Port Burwell and Port Bruce Provincial Parks Telephone:
(519) 874-46910r Brian Huis, Parks Planning Specialist Southwestern Zone, Ontario Parks Telephone:
(519) 873-4617
Page BB2
CLERK-Elgin Co
519 &33 7&&1
1
ASSOCIATion OF?->
EST
B5/B4/99 22:32:45
/03
Association of
Municipalities
of Ontario
o
P
.UoJ .....,..81'S1t)' Avenue, Suite 1701
Toronto, ON MSG 1 E6
"Ie) 9714856 '10': (416) 97101;191
em~H; GmD@nmo.munlcom.com
ó5i:!.!f9fc4fl/ ~if('
[Etopy To
, It\ l Dl1rn.¡tITDS' .-. "-'
COp"! TOÚ){,01(!¡~ Tol,"
1Y\ A-l l! -f1'\.. M~"'-1\.~ .
Members of C
416971619
FAX NO,
AMO
MAY-04-99 TUE 07:32 PM
art
AI
Please ensure that copies of this are distributed to all
991011
OMERS Surplus Plan Announced - Contribution Holiday Extended
Alert
May 4,1999
mmediate Action
For
Issue: The Government has approved changes to the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System
(OMERS) to deal with the plan surplus that will benefit both municipaiities and municipal emploYI~es.
Facts
As required by legislation, the Government of Ontario approved the measures proposed by the OMERS Board
to deal with a large estimated surplus in the pension plan.
AMO BOard of Directors had approved the OMERS recommendations for the plan surplus last year. ' In a
December 1998 letter to the Minister, AMO President Michael Power stated that any surplus benefit was the
result of prudent investment policy rather than Government policy, and that since the employer and employee
share equally in contributions, that they should share equally in any benefits arising from the surplus. It
appears that the Government listened to this advice and used our words in its recent announcement to
approve the surplus plan.
While the Government's announcement acknowledges that the OMERS fund represents municipal dollars,
AMO has long felt that decisions concerning this fund are most appropriately made by municipalities and
municipal employees, as contributors, in conjunction with the OMERS Board of Directors. AMO is hopeful
that the future governance of the fund will not be reliant on Government approvals and regulations and AMO
continues to encourage the Province to end its oversight role. The amount of the surplus is in itself evidence
that OMERS is a well-managed pension plan.
The OMERS surplus management plan wi
extend the current contribution holiday for both municipal employers' and employees' contributions, from
August 1, 1999 to December 31,2001. Contributions will resume January 1,2002 and will gradually rise
to normal levels by 2005. This move will result in savings of about $1 billion to municipalities over this five-
year period;
the ability to offer enhanced early retirement packages until December 31, 2001, providing an 80-factor
for employees whose normal retirement age is 65, and a 75-factor for employees whose normal retirement
age is 60 (police and firefighters);
indexing OMERS pensions to 100 percent of the Consumer Price index (currently 70 percent)
increasing survivor benefits from 75 to 100 percent for pensioners with dependents;
changes to the Canada Pension Plan offset nmits.
,....
....
,.,.
....
....
Status: The Govemment has advised that changes to the OMERS plan can largely be achieved through
regulDtions, which are inlended to be filed shortly. AMO will be monitoring these regulations as they are
issued to ensure that the intent of Friday's announcement is met. A media release on the OMERS changes
is available from the Ministry's website at: http://www.mab.Qov..on.ca
Relations al416 971-9856
Casey Brendon, Policy Advisor, Policy and Government
ext. 341 or email: cbrendon@amo.municom.com
more Information contact:
For
Page 883
CLERK-Elgin CD
1 519 £.33 7£.£.1
ASSOCIATIon OF?-)
EST
85/84/99 22:33:35
02/03
Association of
Municipalities
of OntariD
P
416971619
[¥(;:
/
FAX NO,
AMO
MAY-04-99 TUE 07:33 PM
S9S Unlvo..1ty Avonuo, Sullo '1701
Toronto, ON M5G 1E6
Tol: (416) 971-9856, fax: (416) 971-<1191
emllll; amD@lI.mo,munlcom.com
ert
AI
Members of Council
May 4, 1999
Alert - 99/012
to all
Please ensure that copies of this are distributed
mmediate Action
For
1999 Ontario Budget
tax cuts, health care, education and infrastructure
The Ontario Budget focuses on
among other matters,
Issue
the following highlights as it related to
some of the features included in the
Facts
AMO attended today's budget lock-up and provides
municipal governments. The 1999 Budget contains
Progressive Conservative's Blueprint election platform
Highlights
1999, a further 5 percent reduction In personal income tax.
Beginning July 1
·
taxes
A Business Tax Review Panel is to examine current Ontario personal, corporate and property
tax systems for impacts on business and job creation
residential education
1999, a further 10 percent reduction In
1
Retroactive to January
·
·
Business property taxes (the 10-5-5 of Bill 79) will continue with a further phase-in of 5 per<:ent
a year until "fairness is fully achieved," and will see "a level playing field for newly-constructed
commercial and industrial properties." There are additional tax cuts to support business
·
to 4
reduced
equipment is
· The Gross Receipts Tax rate for 1999 on telephone and other
percent from 5 percent.
The SuperBuild Growth Fund, designed to inject $20 billion into infrastructure is being
established with a $2.9 billion provincial investment. Much of this money is a consolidation of
existing infrastructure funds and an accelerated spending offuture years' program dollars, For
example, included is an acceleration of $200 million for water and sewer works - funds that
were previously announced. The Fund will include an investment of $17 million in
EJnvironmental capital projects to improve public safety and protection ofthe environment, such
as parks, dams, fish hatcheries, northern fire management and rehabilitation of abandoned
mine sites. The fund is intended to leverage municipal and private sector financing for priority
projects in the areas of universities, colleges, health care, roads, bridges, the environment, etc.
/2
·
Page 884
CLERH-Elgin Co
1 519 f,33 7f,f,1
ASSOCIATION OF?-)
EST
85/84/99 22:34:28
03/03
P
416971619
FAX NO.
AMO
MAY-04-99 TUE 07:33 PM
2/2
999 Ontario Budget
Alert:
Communication
Member
retention of physicians in rural and northern Ontario
rural and agricultural crime prevention units
ncreased supportforthe recruitment and
on for specialized
$5mi
.
.
Action
AMO has received clarification that the 20 percent residential education tax reduction (10 percent
this year) will not affect the Local Services Realignment (LSR) funding formula and the Community
Reinvestment Fund (CRF). Program design information for the SuperBuild Fund is not available,
as well as information on many of the other Budget announcements.
Reacting to the Budget, President Michael Power said that he was "pleased to see a strong
economic forecast. Otherwise, municipal exposure to those social programs we cost-share WC)uld
be vulnerable." The President has indicated his expectation that AMO would be invited to
participate on the Business Tax Review Panel as municipal governments are likewise intereE;ted
in the benefits of economic growth and job creation for their communities.
Should the election call come this week, as is highly speculated, the House and its pending
business, including the Budget, will prorogue. AMO will keep its members informed of matters
related to the anticipated election
through AMO's MUNICOM notwork at www.municom.com.
Pat Vanini, Director of Policy and Government Relations at (416) 971-9856 ext. 316 or
email: pvanini@amo.municom.com
416-971-9856 ex!. 300
contact:
This information is available
Transmission problems:
more information
For
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DELIVER TO:
The County of Elgin
Rein VanBrenk, Warden
PLEASE
Mlnistere des Financl!$
Bureau du ministre
Édi(¡ce Frost sud
7 Queen's Park Cres
Toronto ON M7A 1Y7
Tél (416) 325-0400
Tèlèc (416) 325-0374
Ministry of Finance
Office of the Minister
!'rost Building South
7 Queen's Park Cres
Toronto ON M7A 1Y7
Tel (416) 325-0400
!'ax (416) 325-0374
999
28
April
Dear Head of Council
In response to municipal inquiries regarding the 1999 Local Services Realignment (LSR), I am
writing to provide clarification with respect to the sharing of residential education tax room.
As I indicated in my March 23 999 letter, the province agreed to municipal requests to reduce
the costs of LSR programs to municipalities, thus reducing both your costs and financial risk.
In sharing 50 per cent of land ambulance and public health costs, the province reduced LSR
COSlS to municipalities by $290 million, a net savings of $150 million after adjusting CRF
payments to reflect lower program costs. As a result, all municipalities and taxpayers benefit
from lower land ambulance and public health costs
As I also indicated at the annual meeting of the Association of Municipalities of Omario on
August 26, 1998, the formula for calculating 1999 CRF payments will remain the same as in
1998. As you know, the province provided municipalities wirh $2.5 billion of residential
education tax room in order for municipalities to meet their new responsibilities under the
realignment of local services. The province expects municipalities to share residential education
tax room and trusts that municipalities will pass on the savings from significantly reduced LSR
program costs to their taxpayers. For some upper tier municipalities, this will require them to
pass the bencfits to their taxpayers by lowering their upper tier levy and freeing up residentiaJ
education tax room for lower tier municipalities.
Our preference is to provide municipalities with flexibility to develop a 10caJ approach to sharing
tax foom. In those circumstances where a local solution has not been reached, the province is
prepared to take appropriate action to ensure that the benefits of the new cost-sharing
arrangements are passed on to taxpayers.
...2
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To assist during this transition period and to pemit municipalities greater flexibility in working
with their lower tier municipalities to share residential tax room and pass lower LSR costs to
taxpayers, the province has provided municipalities with Special Circumstances Funding (SCF)
My colleague, the Honourable Chris Hodgson, Chair of Management Board and Minister of
Northern Development and Mines, has recently notified municipalities of their 1999 SCF
allocation.
For those municipalities which may require additional time to reach a local solution to sharing
tax room, as well as additional time to incorporate the new SCF funding into their budgetary
calculations, the province has decided to extend the deadline for municipalities to pass their
rating by-Jaws up to June 30, 1999. The Honourable Al Leach, Minister of Municipal Affairs
and Housing, will be filing a regulation shortly to give effect to this change.
Yours sincerely,
Ernie Eves, QC
Minister of Finance