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January 10, 2006 Agenda ORDERS OF THE DAY TUESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2006 -10:00 A.M. 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. ADOPT MINUTES OF MEETING HELD ON DECEMBER 13TH AND 15TH, 2005 3. DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTEREST AND THE GENERAL NATURE THEREOF 4. PRESENTING PETITIONS, PRESENTATIONS AND DELEGATIONS 5. MOTION TO MOVE INTO "COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE COUNCIL" 6. REPORTS OF COUNCIL, OUTSIDE BOARDS AND STAFF 7. CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER - VISIONING SESSION 8. OTHER BUSINESS: 1) Statements/Inquiries by Members 2) Notice of Motion 3) Matters of Urgency 9. IN-CAMERA ITEMS 10. MOTION TO RISE AND REPORT 11. MOTION TO ADOPT RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE COUNCIL 12. BY-LAWS 13. ADJOURNMENT NOTE: LUNCH PROVIDED AT 11 :30 A.M. TOUR OF CENTRAL AMBULANCE COMMUNICATION CENTRE AT 1 :30 P.M. 1510 WOODCOCK STREET, SUITE 20, LONDON <f ' 1 - .::- ;:: .-: -:':. .....;: COUNTY COUNCIL Tuesday,December13,2005 The Elgin County Council met this day at the Administration Building, 450 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas at 7:00 P.M., as required by by-law. The Chief Administrative Officer called the meeting to order and welcomed all in attendance to the Annual Warden's Election. ELECTION OF WARDEN The Chief Administrative Officer asked members of Council wishing to run for the Office of Warden to please stand. Councillor Baldwin offered his candidacy for the position of Warden of Elgin County for the Year 2006. APPOINTMENT BY RESOLUTION The Chief Administrative Officer explained that since the position for Warden remains uncontested, the normal election procedures would be dispensed with as prescribed by by- law and that a resolution appointing Councillor Baldwin to the position of Warden would be in order. Moved by Councillor Mcintyre Seconded by Councillor Rock THAT Paul Baldwin be appointed as Warden for Elgin County Council for the Year 2006. - Carried Unanimously. Warden Baldwin took the Declaration of Office, administered by the Chief Administrative Officer. The Warden left the room, was gowned and re-entered the Council Chambers, where he was officially presented with the Chain of Office, the Lord Elgin Watch and the Gavel of Office, by Immediate Past Warden James Mcintyre. Warden Baldwin delivered his Inaugural Address to Council, thanked them for their support, and outlined the items of interest and importance for consideration in the Year 2006. COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS Warden Baldwin explained the rationale in striking a Rural Initiatives Committee. Moved by Councillor Wilson Seconded by Councillor Mcintyre THAT the following appointments to boards and committees for 2006 be confirmed: Rural Initiatives Committee Warden Baldwin Councillor Mcintyre Councillor Wilson Councillor Warwick Councillor Mcintyre Councillor Rock Councillor Vowel Councillor Mcintyre Councillor Warwick Councillor Wilson CouncillorAcre Councillor Faulds Councillor Rock Warden Baldwin Councillor Hofhuis Councillor Acre Committee of the Whole Council; and, Dispute Resolution Elgin County Museum Elgin-St. Thomas Health Unit Social/Entertainment St. Thomas-Elgin General Hospital St. Thomas-Elgin Tourist Association Tillsonburg District Memorial Hospital Waste Management/Liaison ~ County Council 2 December15,2005 THAT the following Mandate and Purpose of the Rural Initiatives Committee be approved: RURAL INITIATIVES COMMITTEE Mandate/Purpose: 1. To promote the viability of agricultural and rural affairs in the County and throughout the Province. 2. To examine issues such as, but not limited to: the challenges of the global economy on local agricultural practices; the viability of schools in rural communities; and, alternative sources of economic development in rural areas. 3. To develop goals and objectives to improve and promote rural life. 4. To advise County Council with recommendations/strategies on how best to achieve identified goals and objectives. 5. To demonstrate County Council's commitment to delivering services to rural communities by recommending a budget to Council that will accomplish the identified goals. ' - Carried Unanimously. OTHER BUSINESS Warden Baldwin invited all those in attendance to the Warden's Reception, following recess, to be held in the County Administration Building lower level. Moved by Councillor Hofhuis Seconded by Councillor Vowel THAT we do now recess (7:25 P.M.) to meet again on December 15,2005 at 9:00AM. - Carried. COUNTY COUNCIL Thursday, December 15, 2005 The Elgin County Council met this day at the Administration Building, at 9:0 AM. in accordance with adjournment, with all members present except for Councillors Mcintyre (arrived 11 :22 AM.) and Vowel (illness). Warden Baldwin in the Chair. Moved by Councillor Acre Seconded by Councillor Hofhuis THAT the minutes of the meeting held on November 22, 2005 be adopted. - Carried. DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTEREST AND THE GENERAL NATURE THEREOF- None. DELEGATION Mr. Bob Habkirk and Dr. Tom Lacroix, MedQuest 2006, attended at 9:00 AM. to present an initiative, which would expose local high school students to the world of medicine and to spur interest in health care careers. The project involves a weeklong summer camp at which Grades 10 and 11 students, from medically under-serviced communities, would be invited. The delegation was requesting a donation of $7,500 towards their efforts and funding would be matched two to one by other sources. Dr. Lacroix noted the endeavour could be partnered with a municipal Emergency Response Exercise. 3 County Council 3 December 15, 2005 Moved by Councillor Wilson Seconded by Councillor Faulds THAT the County of Elgin agree to participate in the MedQuest Pilot Project and commit $7,500 towards the costs of the week-long summer camp, providing the City of St. Thomas agrees to fund an equal share; and, THAT these funds be allocated from the 2006 grant line. - Carried. Warden Baldwin thanked the delegation for their presentation and the gentlemen left at 9:30 A.M. Mrs. Sally Martyn, Co-Chair Communities In Bloom, Central Elgin, and Mr. Brian Chatfield, Co-President, London Cycling Club, attended at 9:30 A.M. to speak to inclusion of a bicycle lane during reconstruction of Highway #4. The report entitled "Request for a Dedicated Bicycle Lane on Sunset Road" dated November 16, 2005 from the Manager of Road Infrastructure was considered. Staff were directed to consult with the delegation to determine areas of mutual interest and concern. Moved by Councillor Warwick Seconded by Councillor Acre THAT signage be installed on Sunset Road, once reconstructed, to prohibit motorists from driving upon the paved shoulders and to warn them of the potential presence of cyclists; and, THAT the report entitled "Request for a Dedicated Bicycle Lane on Sunset Road" dated November 16, 2005 from the Manager of Road Infrastructure, be approved. - Carried. Warden Baldwin thanked the delegation for their presentation and the participants left at 9:50 A.M. Mrs. Joanne Ferguson and Mr. John Ferguson attended at 10:05 A.M. to request a change in the County's Road Widening Policy as it applies to severance applications. The Ferguson's feel road widening requirements on this property is premature and requested the condition be withdrawn. The report entitled "Land Purchase Practices for County Road Widening" dated December 7,2005 from the Director of Engineering Services, was considered. The Director of Engineering Services explained the rationale for road widening requirements and that it has been County practice for over three decades. He further noted this type of acquisition is authorized through the Planning Act. Much discussion took place regarding the pros and cons of the previously established road widening policy. Moved by Councillor Rock Seconded by Councillor Hofhuis THAT the condition of the 10 foot requirement for road widening purposes imposed by the Engineering Services Department on a recent Application for Consent from Ferguson Farms be withdrawn as a Condition of the severance, in this instance only. - Motion Defeated. Moved by Councillor Acre Seconded by Councillor Faulds THAT the report entitled "Land Purchase Practices for County Road Widening" dated December 7,2005 from the Director of Engineering Services be received and filed. - Carried. 4 County Council 4 December 15. 2005 Warden Baldwin thanked the delegation for their presentation and the participants left at 10:35 A.M. Joint Elain/Central Elain 2005-2006 Annual Municipal Accessibilitv Plan Vice-Chair Hofhuis presented the Accessibility Plan in absence of Chair Jenny Phillips. Moved by Councillor Hofhuis Seconded by Councillor Faulds THAT the attached Joint Elgin/Central Elgin 2005-2006 Annual Municipal Accessibility Plan be adopted and the following barriers to persons with disabilities be addressed during 2006: 1. Designation of disabled parking spaces in core business areas to be investigated (as recommended in the 2004-2005 Annual Plan). 2. All items identified by departmental staff for barrier elimination in 2006, which are detailed on Pages 6-12 of the Plan, are to be scheduled for completion during 2006, within budgetary limitations, or as legislated by Provincial Standards. - Carried. Moved by Councillor Wilson Seconded by Councillor Rock THAT we do now move into Committee Of The Whole Council. - Carried. Council took a break at 10:40 A.M. and reconvened at 10:50 A.M. Kina Georae Lift Bridae Accountina and Explanation of Costs - Director of Enaineerina Services Mr. Wayne McCracken and Mr. Andre Martineau from Byrne Engineering Inc., attended at 10:51 A.M. to speak to the cost overruns with the lift bridge repairs carried out this past year. Hardware and software failures occurred and attempts to get an explanation or restitution from the manufacturer have failed. Concern was expressed that the equipment problem was not pinpointed and whether future difficulties might occur. Byrne Engineering emphasized the firm feels confident that the backup for the system will perform properly. Moved by Councillor Faulds Seconded by Councillor Hofhuis THAT the report "King George Lift Bridge Accounting and Explanation of Costs" dated November 1,2005, from the Director of Engineering Services be received and filed. - Carried. The Warden thanked the delegation for their presentation and the two gentlemen left at 11 :25 A.M. Councillor Mcintyre arrived at 11 :25 A.M. Elain County Museum Construction Tender - Director of Enaineerina Services. Manaaer of Archives and Purchasina Co-Ordinator Moved by Councillor Warwick Seconded by Councillor Acre THAT 668950 Ontario Inc. o/a Mycon Construction be selected for the renovations to the fourth floor at the County Administration Building as the future home of the Elgin County Museum at the quoted price of $374,500 (including taxes); and, 5 County Council 5 December.15,2005 THAT the funds received from the proceeds of the One Wellington Street bequest be used to cover the costs in excess of those projected; and, THAT the Warden and Chief Administrative Officer be authorized to enter into an agreement for the renovations of the fourth floor at the County Administration Building. - Carried. Elqin County Museum By-Law - Director of Librarv Services Moved by Councillor Mcintyre Seconded by Councillor Wilson THAT the by-law entitled "A By-Law to Provide for the Operation of the Elgin County Museum" be adopted; and, THAT Council advertise for nominations to the Elgin County Museum Advisory Committee for the at-large member and the member on behalf of the Museum community with a deadline of February 1, 2006. - Carried. One-Foot Reserve. MacMillan - Director of Enqineerinq Services Moved by Councillor Faulds Seconded by Councillor Rock THAT the County of Elgin declare the one-foot reserve in Lot 12, Concession 8, in the former Township of South Dorchester, now known as the Township of Malahide, as surplus; and, THAT the County of Elgin complete an appraisal on the property; and, THAT the County of Elgin advertise in the local paper that the property is surplus; and further, THAT all costs to transfer this one-foot reserve are borne by the landowner. - Carried. Ontario Clean Water Aqency Operations Aqreement for Elqin Manor Wastewater Treatment Plant - Director of Enqineerinq Services Moved by Councillor Warwick Seconded by Councillor Mcintyre THAT the Warden and the Chief Administrative Officer be directed and authorized to sign an agreement with the Ontario Clean Water Agency to provide management, operation, administration and maintenance services for the wastewater treatment plant at Elgin Manor at the price of $39,538; and further, THAT the term of the agreement is for the calendar year of 2006. - Carried. Human Resources Policy Amendments - Director of Human Resources Moved by Councillor Hofhuis Seconded by Councillor Faulds THAT the amendments to Human Resources Policies 2.10 Hours ofWorklAlternative Work Arrangement; Section 3 Hiring Policies; 9.20 Acts of Nature; 9.80 Bereavement Leave; 9.90 Pregnancy/Parental Leave; and 10.50 Mileage be approved. - Carried. 6 County Council 6 December 15, 2005 Request for Proposal Benefit Consultant Review - Director of Human Resources Moved by Councillor Hofhuis Seconded by Councillor Rock THAT the firm of Mosey and Mosey Insurance Agency Ltd. be selected as the agent of record for the County of Elgin, effective as soon as possible. - Carried. Excess Indemnitv Renewal 2006. Occupational Accident Insurance - Director of Human Resources Moved by Councillor Acre Seconded Councillor Wilson THAT the Excess Indemnity Coverage and Occupational Accident Coverage for 2006 in the amount of approximately $64,300 be approved; and, THAT the premium be funded from the WSIB Reserve Account. - Carried. 2006 OMERS Contribution Rates - Director of Human Resources Councillor Mcintyre noted a presentation was made to M.P.P. Steve Peters regarding Council opposition to OMERS devolution. Moved by Councillor Faulds Seconded by Councillor Rock THAT the report "2006 OMERS Contribution Rates" dated November 26,2005, from the Director of Human Resources, be received and filed. - Carried. Corporate Goals - Chief Administrative Officer Councillors noted that road infrastructure should be included in this report and Warden Baldwin indicated these goals could form a platform for a visioning exercise. Moved by Councillor Wilson Seconded by Councillor Rock THAT County Council adopt, as a matter of policy, eight corporate goals and objeCtives as identified in the report dated November 29th, 2005; and, THAT staff be directed to add an additional corporate goal regarding the pursuit of a quality road infrastructure; and further, THAT staff be directed to develop a communication plan to publicize the goals and to implement them at every opportunity. - Carried Unanimously. Schedule of Council Meetinas for 2006 - ManaQer of Administrative Services Warden Baldwin requested that Council add the date of January 10, 2006 to the schedule for a special Council Meeting at 10:00 A.M. to discuss a visioning exercise. Moved by Councillor Rock Seconded by Councillor Acre THAT the report "Schedule of Council Meetings for 2006" dated December 2,2005 from the Manager of Administrative Services, as amended, be adopted. - Carried. 7 County Council 7 December 15, 2005 Budaet Comparison to October 31. 2005 - Director of Financial Services Moved by Councillor Faulds Seconded by Councillor Mcintyre THAT the report "Budget Comparison to October 31,2005" dated November 28,2005, from the Director of Financial Services, be received and filed. - Carried. Mat Rental Service Aareement for Elain County Homes - Director of Financial Services Moved by Councillor Hofhuis Seconded by Councillor Acre THAT the Warden and the Chief Administrative Officer be authorized and directed to sign the agreement for mat rental service with Cintas for the County of Elgin Homes for the term ending November 30,2010. - Carried. County Phone System - Director of Information Technoloaies Moved by Councillor Rock Seconded by Councillor Faulds THAT Amtelecom be awarded the contract to replace the telephone system at the County Administration Building at the bid price of $33,805 inclusive of taxes; and, THAT the HP 4108g1 network switch be replaced with an HP 5308 xl network switch to be purchased from Protek Systems at the quoted price of $19,434.92; and, THAT the $16,000 for the new phone system be acquired from the Phone System Capital Budget and the $37,239.92 variance funded from the IT Special Projects Capital Budget. - Carried. Influenza Vaccination Promotion in Homes - Director of Senior Services. Elqin Manor Moved by Councillor Wilson Seconded by Councillor Mcintyre THAT a draw be held at each of the County Homes to select a total of three (3) staff members, who has provided proof of influenza vaccination by January 1, 2006 for the 2005/06 influenza season, to receive a day away from the workplace with pay. - Carried. Ministry of Health Annual Compliance Report Follow-Up Report - Director of Senior Services. Terrace Lodqe Council suggested soliciting sponsorship for items at the Homes from pharmacy services. Staff will research this possibility for the next contract term. Moved by Councillor Faulds Seconded by Councillor Acre THAT the County of Elgin contract with Hills Pharmacy to provide pharmacy services to Terrace Lodge; and, THAT this report be accepted and filed. - Carried. 8 County Council 8 December.15,2005 Ministrv of Health Annual Review - Director of Senior Services/Manaaer of Resident Care. Bobier Villa Moved by Councillor Mcintyre Seconded by Councillor Wilson THAT the Warden write a letter of congratulations to the Bobier Home Staff; and, THAT the report "Ministry of Health Annual Review" dated December 6, 2005, presented by the Director of Senior Services/Manager of Resident Care, Bobier Villa, be received and filed. - Carried. 2005 Vacation Carry Forward Requests - Director of Senior Services/Manaqer of Resident Care. Bobier Villa Moved by Councillor Rock Seconded by Councillor Faulds THAT the report entitled "2005 Vacation Carry Forward Requests" dated December 6, 2005, from the Director of Senior Services/Manager of Resident Care, Bobier Villa, be received and filed. - Carried. Reportinq to the Public on Service Improvements and Barriers - Director of Librarv Services Moved by Councillor Hofhuis Seconded by Councillor Rock THAT the report entitled "Reporting to the Public on Service Improvements and Barriers" dated November 28, 2005, from the Director of Library Services, be accepted as written and provided to the public for information as prescribed in the Municipal Act. - Carried. Trillium Foundation and CAP Grants Received in 2006 - Director of Librarv Services Moved by Councillor Faulds Seconded by Councillor Acre THAT the report ''Trillium Foundation and CAP Grants Received in 2006" dated November 28, 2005, from the Director of Library Services, be received and filed. - Carried. Memorandum: London Central Ambulance Communications Centre Tour- Ambulance and Emerqencv Manaaement Coordinator Moved by Councillor Rock Seconded by Councillor Hofhuis THAT the memorandum "London Central Ambulance Communications Centre Tour" dated December 1, 2005, from the Ambulance and Emergency Management Coordinator be received and filed. - Carried. 2006 Mileaqe Reimbursement - Director of Financial Services Moved by Councillor Faulds Seconded by Councillor Mcintyre THAT the report entitled "2006 Mileage Reimbursement" dated December 13,2005, from the Director of Financial Services, be received and filed. - Carried. 9 County Council 9 December 15,2005 Annual Staff Appreciation Gift - Chief Administrative Officer Moved by Councillor Faulds Seconded by Councillor Warwick THAT Council directs staff to purchase an annual appreciation gift for County employees and said gifts be allocated from the Corporate Recognition Account. - Carried. Council recessed at 12:09 P.M. and reconvened at 1 :03 P.M. Correspondence for Consideration: 1. G. Sosnoski, General Manager of Corporate Services and Clerk, City of Kitchener, with a resolution asking that the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing commission an objective review of the results of amalgamations in Ontario relative to the principle of affordability, accountability and political accessibility. 2. Mayor George J. MacDonald, Town of Midland, with a resolution requesting the Province end its downloading of provincial programs and begin the uploading of provincial program costs back to the province. 3. Denise Labelle-Gelinas, City Clerk, City of Cornwall, with a resolution requesting discussions with AMO and the Province on appropriate statutory amendments to direct arbitrations that would take into account ability to pay and local economic conditions in decisions pertaining to labour relations. 4. Paul Sutherland, Consultant, on behalf of the Ontario dairy, egg and poultry farmers "FarmGate5", with an information pamphlet and resolution requesting support for the preservation of supply management for Canada's dairy, poultry and egg farmers; processors; and consumers. 5. Karen Landry, Clerk Town of Halton Hills, with a resolution requesting support for the Office of the Ombudsman of Ontario's investigation into the fairness and transparency of the valuation of properties by the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation. 6. Township of South Algonquin, with a resolution requesting an extension to the 2005 moratorium on assessment increases to be extended throughout the 2006 taxation year, in order to allow the investigation to be completed by the Ontario Ombudsman into the Current Value Assessment system and the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation. 7. AMO Member Communication "ALERT" re: "Bill 123 - The Transparency in public Matters Act Recommended for Third Reading". The following recommendation was adopted respecting Correspondence Item #1 : Moved by Councillor Hofhuis Seconded by Councillor Warwick THAT Correspondence Item #1 be received and filed. - Carried. The following recommendation was adopted respecting Correspondence Item #2: Moved by Councillor Acre Seconded by Councillor Rock THAT the Corporation of the County of Elgin supports the resolution of the Town of Midland requesting the Province to end its downloading of provincial programs and begin the uploading of provincial program costs back to the province. - Carried. 1 0 County Council 10 December 15,2005 The following recommendation was adopted respecting Correspondence Item #3: Moved by Councillor Warwick Seconded by Councillor McIntyre THAT the Corporation of the County of Elgin supports the resolution of the City of Cornwall requesting discussions with AMO and the Province on appropriate statutory amendments to direct arbitrations that would take into account ability to pay and local economic conditions in decisions pertaining to labour relations. - Carried. The following recommendation was adopted respecting Correspondence Item #4: Moved by Councillor Warwick Seconded by Councillor Wilson THAT the Corporation of the County of Elgin supports the resolution concerning the Ontario dairy, egg and poultry farmers "FarmGate5" for the preservation of supply management for Canada's dairy, poultry and egg farmers; processors; and consumers. - Carried Unanimously. The following recommendation was adopted respecting Correspondence Item #5: Moved by Councillor Rock Seconded by Councillor Hofhuis THAT the Corporation of the County of Elgin supports the resolution from the Town of Halton Hills requesting support for the Office of the Ombudsman of Ontario's investigation into the fairness and transparency of the valuation of properties by the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation. - Carried. The following recommendation was adopted respecting Correspondence Item #6: Moved by Councillor Warwick Seconded by Councillor Hofhuis THAT Correspondence Item #6 be received and filed. - Carried. The following recommendation was adopted respecting Correspondence Item #7: Moved by Councillor Acre Seconded by Councillor Rock THAT the Corporation of the County of Elgin supports AMO's position of non-support for the Private Member's Bill 123 "The Transparency in Public Matters Act"; and, THAT Mr. Steve Peters, M.P.P., Elgin-Middlesex-London, be informed of the County of Elgin's position on this matter. - Carried. Items for Information (Consent A~enda): 1. J.E. Okrucky, Manager, Operations London/Sarnia District, Union Gas, with information regarding natural gas prices and steps taken to educate consumers on how to protect themselves from higher energy prices. 'I County Council 11 December 15, 2005 2. Federation of Canadian Municipalities, Members' Advisory, "Impact of an Early Election on Federal Transfers for Municipalities". 3. Hon. John Gerretsen, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, acknowledging Council's resolution concerning Private Members Bill 123 the Transparency in Public Matters Act. 4. Hon. Mike Colle, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, announcing the Canada- Ontario Immigration Agreement to provide programs to meet the needs of immigrants in regions across the province. 5. AMO Member Communication ALERT: 1) "Ontario Association of Non-Profit Homes and Services for Seniors Calls on Government to Fulfill Election Promise"; 2) "Government Introduces Source Protection Bill". AMO Member Communication "FOR YOUR INFORMATION" Environment Canada Accepting Applications for Funding Under the Invasive Alien Species Program. 6. Correspondence supporting County Council's resolution of non-support for BIll 206 "An Act to Revise the Ontario Municipal Retirement System Act": 1) Dianne Wilson, Deputy Clerk, Municipality of Central Elgin 2) R. Millard, CAO./Clerk, Township of Malahide 3) Phyllis Ketchabaw, Clerk, Town of Aylmer 4) Tena Michiels, Deputy Clerk, Township of Southwold. 7. Hon. John Gerretsen, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, acknowledging County Council's correspondence concerning Bill 206, An Act to Revise the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System Act. 8. Donald Leitch, Chief Administrative Officer, Municipality of Central Elgin, with' copy of correspondence to Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing regarding the restructuring proposal involving Municipality of Central Elgin, City of St. Thomas, and County of Elgin. 9. Chuck Raven, Partner, Raven & Shaw, advising that the firm has been engaged by the County of Elgin to audit the financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2005 and that auditing standards (GAAS) have been met. 10. Michael S. Raymond, Warden, County of Essex and Chair, Western Wardens' Caucus, thanking Warden Mcintyre for his support and service to the WOWC for 2005. Moved by Councillor Faulds Seconded by Councillor Warwick THAT Correspondence Items #1-10 be received and filed. - Carried. OTHER BUSINESS Statements/Inquiries by Members The Director of Engineering Services noted a public meeting would be held today from 3:00-5:00 P.M. and from 7:00-9:30 P.M. at the County Administration Building concerning Highway #4 restructuring. Councillor Mcintyre advised that a public meeting would be held at the Dutton/Dunwich Municipal Building this evening concerning the Emerald Ash Borer. Warden Baldwin thanked staff and Council for their support and teamwork during the past year, wished everyone a Merry Christmas and extended a token of appreciation. Notice of Motion - None. Matters of Urqency - None. 1 2 County Council 12 December 15, 2005 Moved by Councillor Hofhuis Seconded by Councillor Rock THAT we do now proceed In-Camera to discuss property matters. - Carried. Moved by Councillor Mcintyre Seconded by Councillor Acre THAT we do now rise and report. - Carried. Moved by Councillor Faulds Seconded by Councillor Mcintyre THAT the Warden and the Chief Administrative Officer be authorized and directed to sign a Lease Agreement with the Victorian Order of Nurses for 200 square feet of office space at Terrace Lodge for a one-year term, from December 1, 2005 to November 30, 2006, at the rate of $1.00 per year; and, THAT the Lease Agreement include a renewal for an additional one-year term, December 1, 2006 to November 30, 2007, upon the approval of both parties. - Carried. Moved by Councillor Acre Seconded by Councillor Mcintyre THAT the Warden and the Chief Administrative Officer be authorized and directed to sign a Lease Agreement with Graham Scott Enns; and, THAT staff be directed to refurbish space for Graham Scott Enns on the third floor at the County of Elgin Administration Building, at an estimated price of $40,000 and the County of Elgin split the office refurbishments at the rate of 50/50; and, THAT, as a matter of policy, the County agree to co-share capital costs not more than once every ten years with the tenant, subject to negotiation on cost maximum; and, THAT the lease start on January 1, 2006, for a five-year term at a lease payment of: $13.25 for year one; $13.50 for year two; $13.75 for year three; $14.00 for year four; and $14.25 for year five, per square foot per year; and further, THAT the lease be subject to a renewal of a further five years, subject to negotiated rates. - Carried. Moved by Councillor Hofhuis Seconded by Councillor Warwick THAT Elgin County Council approve the request from Hennessey Gibson Hogan to extend the closing date for the development of the former Elgin Manor building and property to February 28, 2006 or sooner with mutual agreement of the parties. . - Carried. Moved by Councillor Wilson Seconded by Councillor Rock THAT the County Solicitor be instructed to seek restitution for the faulty PLC provided by Rockwell International during the commissioning of the King George Lift Bridge; and, 13 County Council 13 December 15, 2005 THAT said unit be tested by a qualified consultant in a "real life" practical situation before it is accepted. - Carried. Moved by Councillor Faulds Seconded by Councillor Mcintyre THAT we do now adopt the recommendations of the Committee Of The Whole Council. - Carried. BY. LAWS Moved by Councillor Acre Seconded by Councillor Warwick THAT By-Law No. 05-43 "Being a By-Law to Authorize the Warden and the Treasurer to Borrow Up to the Sum of Fifteen Million Dollars" be read a first and second time. - Carried. Moved by Councillor Faulds Seconded by Councillor Mcintyre THAT By-Law No. 05-43 be read a third time and finally passed. - Carried. Moved by Councillor Warwick Seconded by Councillor Faulds THAT By-Law No. 05-44 "Being a By-Law to Provide for the Operation of the Elgin County Museum" be read a first and second time. - Carried. Moved by Councillor Hofhuis Seconded by Councillor Rock THAT By-Law No. 05-44 be read a third time and finally passed. - Carried. Moved by Councillor Acre Seconded by Councillor Hofhuis THAT By-Law No. 05-45 "Being a By-Law to Establish a Rate to be Paid for Personal Vehicles Used for County Business and to Repeal By-Law No. 04-04" be read a first and second time. - Carried. Moved by Councillor Wilson Seconded by Councillor Mcintyre THAT By-Law No. 05-45 be read a third time and finally passed. - Carried. Moved by Councillor Faulds Seconded by Councillor Warwick THAT By-Law No. 05-46 "A By-Law to Confirm Proceedings of the Municipal Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin at the December 13th and 15th, 2005 Meeting" be read a first and second time. - Carried. 1 4 County Council 14 December 15, 2005 Moved by Councillor Acre Seconded by Councillor Mcintyre THAT By-Law No. 05-46 be read a third time and finally passed. - Carried. Moved by Councillor Warwick Seconded by Councillor Hofhuis THAT we do now adjourn at 1:42 P.M. to meet again on January 10,2005 at 10:00 A.M. - Carried. Mark G. McDonald, Chief Administrative Officer. Paul Baldwin, Warden. 1 5 REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Mark G. McDonald, Chief Administrative Officer DATE: December 22, 2005 January 10, 2006 SUBJECT: Visioning Session Introduction: During Warden Baldwin's Inaugural Address to Council the concept of holding a "Visioning Session" was introduced. The idea is to prepare strategically (in advance) for changing economic, social and demographic trends. The gathering would also be used to enhance communication amongst municipal officials. It is hoped that, by the end of the exercise, key objectives could be identified that would benefit the geographical County including the City of St. Thomas. Discussion: Looking into the future and planning ahead are important to the success of any organization. To meet the challenges that lie ahead, it is imperative that we understand what Elgin will look like ten years from now. A focused gathering of community leaders tasked with the responsibility of identifying issues and opportunities, supplemented by professional assistance (a demographer and a facilitator), would enable the group to capitalize on these trends. A draft agenda is included in this report for your consideration. Location: The new East Elgin Community Complex would be an appropriate venue for the exercise. Timin~: Friday,ApriI28~,2006 Bud~et: An upset limit of $15,000 should be sufficient. Funding assistance for the session will be pursued to help defray some of the costs. It is suggested that should a local organization come forward with financial assistance that they be given an opportunity to participate in the program. In addition, if the City of St. Thomas is included, the costs could be apportioned based on the traditional 60/40 split, less any grants received. -2- Facilitator, includes advanced preparations and final report = $10,000 Demographer(s)/motivational speaker = $ 3,000 Hall rental, meals, printing etc = $ 2.000 $15.000 Composition: County Council should decide on the composition of the gathering. A similar exercise was held in 1994 and included St. Thomas City Council and senior staff, all of County Council and senior staff, the local M.P. and M.P.P. and Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing staff as observers. In speaking with one well-respected facilitator, gatherings over the size of fifty participants tend to become "more of a lecture than a workshop". With that advice in mind, involving all lower-tier elected officials and their senior staff may prove difficult, although accommodations could be made. Conclusion: There are many benefits associated with the development of a vlslomng session. Communications are enhanced, important trends are identified, and strategic plans are developed through such means. Recommendation: THAT a visioning exercise be held to help identify emerging trends, issues and opportunities, and such endeavour include the City of St. Thomas, on a cost shared basis, the local M.P., M.P.P., lower-tier Deputy Mayors and C.A.O.'s, and consideration be given to include any other local organization willing to help fund and participate in the exercise. ALL of which is respectfully submitted, ~d')- Chief Administrative Officer. -3- DRAFT AGENDA 2006 VISIONING SESSION FRIDAY, APRIL 28TH, 2006 EAST ELGIN COMMUNITY COMPLEX 8:30 a.m. Registration 9:00 a.m. Welcome - Warden and Mayor 9:10 a.m. Introduction of Guest Speaker(s) TBA 9:30 a.m. Workshop Objectives - Facilitator 10:00 a.m. Break 10: 15 a.m. Small Group Discussions on Issues and Opportunities 11 :30 a.m. Presentations and General Discussions 12:15 noon Lunch and Keynote Address - Guest Speaker 1 :15 p.m. Framework for Developing Future Priorities - Facilitator 1 :30 p.m. Small Group Discussions on Future Priorities 2:30 p.m. Break 2:45 p.m. Presentations and General Discussions 3:30 p.m. Conclusions and Next Steps (Press invited to attend this portion) 4:00 p.m. Closing Remarks - Warden and Mayor President: Donna Lunn lunnfarms{(Uamtelecom.net 450 Sunset Drive, Suite 228, S1. Thomas, ON N5R 5Vl Tel: 519-633-0114 Fax: 519-633-6082 Secretary-Administrator Roberta Gillard robertaaillard@roaers.com December 20, 2005 E 1'\ rI~""'" ~ .. "~if' ~~~:;; 1~'1'il~ V ~~ Elgin County Council 450 Sunset Drive S1. Thomas, On N5R 5VI DEe 2 2 2005 R'j~ q r:!~~ ~"i:} lL~\<,;'l.V""'):;'~ ':' iii, '-t!'I' ':?:f,[(,"ri\.'t\n'W\i':~; " ~ d,~ ~t?., ~'" r',..>t,. It ~> -,,' t"".L,~4'o;";!;jt:l:' ~ 'trl; (j .. ~ .. " ~ " ~~ Re: Elgin Federation of Agriculture Annual Banquet & Dance & Hall of Fame Presentations Elgin Federation ofAgriculture?:$ annual Banquet & Dance;will be held Saturday evening February' 4,2006 at S1:. Anne's Centre; St. Thomas. Social hour begins at 6:30 pJl1. with dinner served at 7:00 p.m:s, There will be a Guest Speaker, and Hall of Fame presentations with a dance to follow. In previous years we have encouraged businesses to be a "GoldTable Sponsor? at our banquet and we are asking if you would consider participating this year. Sponsorship of a gold table is$I20'payable to the Elgin Federation of Agriculture which inc1udesfourtickets' for you plus specially recognized seating at a "Gold Table" and advertising our sponsors the night of the banquet. Please RSVP by January 12, 200$ by phone, fax or email. We thank you for your interest in the Elgin Federation of Agriculture and the agricultural community of Eglin County which it serves. It is these sponsorships which help to make the evemng a success. Sincerely, ~~ Roberta Gillard See-Administrator Elgin Federation of Agriculture :rag Farmers Workingfor Fa.rmers