13 - November 22, 2016 County Council Agenda Package
ORDERS OF THE DAY
FOR TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2016 9:00 A.M.
ORDER
1st Meeting Called to Order
2nd Adoption of Minutes October 18, 2016
3rd Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof
4th Presenting Petitions, Presentations and Delegations
PRESENTATION:
9:00 a.m. Bruce Curtis, Director on OPPI Council with OPPI & Elgincentives Planning
Award Presentation
DELEGATION:
9:10 a.m. Stephen Molnar, Chair of SCOR EDC and Mayor of Tillsonburg with
update and request for partner support (attached)
9:30 a.m. Betsy McClure, Stewardship Program Supervisor, Kettle Creek
Conservation Authority with a PowerPoint Presentation onthe Elgin Clean
Water Program and request for 2017 funding consideration (attached)
9:40 a.m. Kevin Jackson, General Manager, Elgin Business Resource Centre with their
Satellite Offices Year End Report. (attached)
11:45 a.m. Graham Warwick, Vice Chair, Land Division Committee 2016 Land
Division Committee Report (attached)
5th MC
6th Reports of Council, Outside Boards and Staff
7th Council Correspondence
1) Items for Consideration
2) Items for Information (Consent Agenda)
8th OTHER BUSINESS
1) Statements/Inquiries by Members
2)Notice of Motion
3) Matters of Urgency
9th Closed Meeting Items
10th Recess
11th Motion to Rise and Report
12th Motion to Adopt Recommendations from the Committee Of The Whole
13th Consideration of By-Laws
14th ADJOURNMENT
LUNCH WILL BE PROVIDED
NOTICE: Deputy Warden for November Councillor McWilliam
Deputy Warden for December Councillor Marr
December 6, 2016 .M. (Official Attire)
RECEPTION TO FOLLOW
December 8, 2016 County Council Meeting (THURSDAY)
December 9, 2016 County of Elgin Christmas Party St. Thomas
Elgin Public Arts Centre 5:00 P.M.- 10:00 P.M.
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A PARTNERSHIP OF:
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ELGIN CLEAN WATER PROGRAM
Initiated in 2012 by the four Elgin Conservation Authorities
Provides the necessary technical expertise and financial incentives
Open to Farm and Non-farm Landowners in Elgin County
Goal is to improve water quality across Elgin County and restore wildlife habitat
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PROJECT CATEGORIES
Well Management
50% to max $500
Well upgrades and well decommissioning
Erosion Control Measures
Grassed waterways, catch basins, terraces and berms to reduce erosion.
Clean Water Diversion
Berms and eaves troughs to divert clean water from manure and exercise yards.
Wetland and Riparian Protection/Restoration
Retiring fragile land through enhancement or restoration of wetland or riparian
features to improve surface and groundwater quality.
50% to max $4,000
Livestock Management
Fences, crossings and watering devices to eliminate livestock access to watercourses.
Other Projects
Innovative projects that demonstrate improved water quality or overall watershed
health.
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PROGRESS TO DATE
From 2012-2015, 76 projects have been completed across the County
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PROJECT FUNDING 2012-2015
ECWP Grant
$236,625
Matching Landowner
Grants Contributions
$205,249 $474,482
Total
Project
Costs
$916,357
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2016 SUMMARY
26 projects approved to date in 2016
$348,323.96 in estimated total project costs
$80,129.48 in ECWP funds awarded to date
Funding provided by: Elgin County, Green Lane
Community Trust Fund and OMAFRA
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Before
5.5 ACRE TALLGRASS PRAIRIE PLANTING
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Before
1 ACRE WETLAND CREATION
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Before
3.5 KM OF WATERCOURSE/
VALLEYLAND FENCING
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Before
SNAKE HIBERNACULUM
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150 METRE EROSION CONTROL/
STREAMBANK RESTORATION
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LANDOWNER TESTIMONIALS
CA staff worked with us to design and implement the
complete, staff returned to monitor its success. We
funding and technical help and I definitely look forward to
reducing soil erosion and improving water quality, was the
primary impetus for us going ahead with this wetland
enhance our Best Management Practices. The water that
is filling these wetlands is being naturally filtered before it
enters our waterways. It has also been a joy for our family
to regularly walk back and see what wildlife is there. Our
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ALUS Elgin
Recent expansion to cover all of Elgin County
ALUS Elgin partners with each CA and other
organizations in the region to develop stewardship
projects
ECWP and other funders provide project start up costs
and ALUS provides annual payments per acre for
ecological goods and services
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Cover Crop Category
Development of a cover crop
category to provide an incentive
for farmers to try cover crops on
their fields
Cover crops are essential for soil
health and preventing soil
erosion
Important for reducing nutrient
loadings to Lake Erie
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EDUCATION AND OUTREACH
Farmer Ambassadors Local Events
Workshops/Tours Social Media
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LOOKING AHEAD to 2017
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QUESTIONS?
Betsy McClure
Program Coordinator, Elgin Clean Water Program
QUESTIONS?
519-631-
www.elgincleanwater.ca
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November15,2016
WardenWiehleandMembersofCountyCouncil
450SunsetDrive
St.Thomas,ON
N5R5V1
DearWardenWiehleandMembersofCountyCouncil:
ThankyouforprovidingfundingtotheElginCleanWaterProgramin2016.ThefundingfromElginCounty
wassuccessfullypooledwithotherfundingsourcessuchastheGreenLaneCommunityTrustFund,Ducks
Unlimited,andtheMinistryofAgriculture,FoodandRuralAffairstoassistlandownersinundertaking
worthwhileenvironmentalprojectsontheirproperties.Todatein2016,theElginCleanWaterProgram
hasfunded26projectstotalingover$80,000ingrantsandalmost$350,000intotalprojectcosts.
lyselffundedandreliantupongrantsanddonationstosustainthe
TheElginCleanWaterProgramisentire
program.TheElginCleanWaterProgramisrequestingthatElginCountycontinueitssupportin2017by
providing$40,000fortheimplementationofenvironmentalrestorationprojectsacrosstheCountyand
furtherthatacontributionof$40,000totheElginCleanWaterProgrambecomeapermanentlineitem
withinthe/ƚǒƓƷǤƭannualbudget.
TheElginCleanWaterProgramdirectlysupportsElginCountylandownersinimprovingwaterqualityand
wildlifehabitatconditionsontheirpropertiesΑbenefitingthelocalenvironment,helpingtoensurethereis
swimmable,drinkableandfishablewateracrosstheCountyandprovingthatElginCountyisinfact
ͻƦƩƚŭƩĻƭƭźǝĻbyƓğƷǒƩĻͼ͵
Thankyouforyourconsideration.IfyouhaveanyquestionsaboutthisrequestortheElginCleanWater
Program,pleasedonothesitatetocontactmeatbetsy@kettlecreekconservation.on.caor5196311270
x229.
Sincerely,
BetsyMcClure
ProgramCoordinator
Apartnershipof:
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c/oKettleCreekConservationAuthority44015FergusonLineSt.Thomas,ONN5P3T35196311270
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REPORTS OF COUNCIL AND STAFF
November 22, 2016
Staff Reports (ATTACHED)
Purchasing Coordinator General Insurance and Risk Management Services Program for
2017
Purchasing Coordinator Quarterly Information Report - Contract Awards July 1, 2016 to
September 30, 2016
Accessibility Coordinator Corporate Accessibility Policy Update HR Policy # 2.130
Accessibility Coordinator Accessibility Plan Annual Status Report
Accessibility Coordinator Accessibility Training Plan for 2017
Library Coordinator Elgin County Library 2016 Project Updates
Manager of Library Programming and Community Development Recent Programs,
Partnerships and Activities - May to October 2016
Director of Community and Cultural Services Museum Facility Funding Approval and
Authorization to Proceed
Director of Community and Cultural Services 2016-17 Ontario Libraries Capacity Fund
Grant
Director of Engineering Services Emergency Response Vehicle Replacement
Director of Engineering Services Wonderland Road Assumption
Deputy Director of Engineering Services School Zone Signage
Deputy Director of Engineering Services 911 Primary Public Safety Answering Position
(PPSAP) Contract Extension (2017-2019)
Director of Homes and Seniors Services Preventative Maintenance for Mobility Devices
Contract Award
Director of Homes and Seniors Services One-year Multi-Sector Accountability Agreement
(MSAA) Extension for Terrace Lodge and Bobier
Villa Adult Day Programs for 2014-2017
Tree Commissioner/ Weed Inspector Year End Report for 2016
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County of Elgin
Human Resources Policy Manual
Subject: County Accessibility Policy
Policy Number: Policy 2.130
Date Approved:
Date Last Revision: September 25, 2012
Code: A
Section: 2
______________________________________________________________________________
Policy Statement
The County of Elgin is committed to eliminating barriers and improving accessibility for people
with disabilities in a manner that respects dignity, independence, integration and equal
opportunity.
The County of Elgin recognizes the diverse needs of all our residents and customers and will
respond by striving to provide goods, services and facilities that are accessible to all.
The County of Elgin is committed to being responsive to the needs of all its residents and
employees. In order to meet the needs of people with disabilities the County will:
Ensure policies address dignity, independence, integration and provide for equal
opportunity for people with disabilities.
Allow people with disabilities to use their own personal devices to obtain, use or benefit
from the services offered by the County.
Accommodate the accessibility needs of people with disabilities to ensure they can
obtain, use or benefit from the goods, services, programs and facilities.
Communicate with people with disabilities in a manner that takes into account the
disability.
The County will promote accessibility by ensuring that compliance is met for all regulations
made under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005, S.O. 2005, c. 11
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County of Elgin
Human Resources Policy Manual
Definitions
Disability: as defined by the Ontario Human Rights Code, R.S.O. 1990, c. H. 19
Service Animal: For the purposes of this policy, an animal is a service animal for a person with a
disability if:
1) the animal can be readily identified as one that is being used by the person for reasons
relating to the disability, as a result of visual indicators such as the vest or
harness worn by the animal; or
2)the person provides documentation from one of the following regulated health
professionals confirming that the person requires the animal for reasons relating to the
disability:
i.A member of the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of
Ontario.
ii.A member of the College of Chiropractors of Ontario.
iii.A member of the College of Nurses of Ontario.
iv.A member of the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario.
v.A member of the College of Optometrists of Ontario.
vi.A member of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario.
vii.A member of the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.
viii.A member of the College of Psychologists of Ontario.
ix.A member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists and Registered Mental
Health Therapists of Ontario
Guide Dog: a guide dog as defined in the ight Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. B.7
For all other definitions, refer to the Integrated Accessibility Standard Regulation (O. Reg
Accessibility Planning
The County will establish, implement, maintain and document a multi-year accessibility plan,
requirements under the Integrated Accessibility Standard Regulation (O. Reg 191/11)
The County will establish and implement a multi-year accessibility plan in consultation with
people with disabilities and the Accessibility Advisory Committee.
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County of Elgin
Human Resources Policy Manual
The plan will be posted on the County websites, and will be available in an accessible format
upon request. The plan will be updated at least once every five years.
An annual status report will be prepared outlining the progress taken to implement the strategy
of the plan. The status report will be posted on the County and lower tier websites.
Purchasing
The County will incorporate accessibility design, criteria and features when purchasing or
acquiring goods, services or facilities, except where it is not practicable to do so.
Should the County determine that it is not practicable to incorporate accessibility design,
criteria and features when purchasing or acquiring goods, services or facilities, it will provide an
explanation upon request.
Feedback
The County will accept feedback from members of the public relating to the provision of
accessible goods, services or facilities to people with disabilities. The County will ensure that
the feedback process is accessible to people with disabilities by providing, or arranging for the
provision of accessible formats and communication supports, upon request.
The County will develop procedures that specify the actions that will be taken if a complaint is
received about the manner in which it provides goods, services or facilities to people with
disabilities.
Information regarding the fee Individuals
can request this information by contacting the County.
In accordance with section 11 of the when seeking feedback from the public, the County
will provide accessible formats and/or communication supports to members of the public upon
request.
Emergency Procedures, Plans and Public Safety Information
The County will provide emergency procedures, plans and public safety information in an
accessible format or with appropriate communication supports, as soon as practicable, upon
request.
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County of Elgin
Human Resources Policy Manual
Libraries
The County will provide access to or arrange for the provision of access to accessible materials
where they exist. Information about accessible materials can be found on the Elgin County
Library website.
Design of Public Spaces
The County will comply with the requirements found in Part IV.1 of the where
applicable, in relation to public spaces.
Training
The County will provide training to:
All people who are an employee of, or a volunteer with the organization
All people who participate in developing the organizations policies; and
All other people who provide goods, services or facilities on behalf of the organization
The training will include:
An overview of the Ontario Human Rights Code
A review of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005
A review of the Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation (O. Reg 191/11)
Specific review of requirements, based on the duties associated with the
employee.
How to interact and communicate with people with various types of disabilities
How to interact with people with disabilities who use an assistive device or require the
assistance of a guide dog or other service animal or the assistance of a support person.
How to use equipment or devices available on the premises or otherwise
provided by the County that may help with the provision of goods, services or facilities
to a person with a disability.
What to do if a person with a disability is having difficulty accessing the goods,
services or facilities.
The training will be appropriate to the duties of the employees, volunteers and other people.
Employees will be trained as soon as practicable. Training will be provided to the
aforementioned individuals with respect to any policy changes on an ongoing basis. Training
logs will be kept in accordance with the
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County of Elgin
Human Resources Policy Manual
Accessible Formats and Communication Supports/Format of Documents
The County will provide alternate formats of information and communications that are
produced by, or in direct control of the County. This does not apply to information that the
County does not control directly or indirectly through a contractual relationship.
This will be done upon request, in a timely manner and at a cost that is no more than the cost
charged for the original format.
When it is not practicable to provide an alternate format, the County will provide an
explanation and a summary of the document in an accessible format.
The County will provide communication supports to members of the public upon request.
If the County is unable to obtain the requested communication support, the County will consult
with the individual to determine an appropriate alternative method of communication.
The County will consult with the individual making the request to determine the suitability of an
accessible format or communication support.
Assistive Devices
The County will allow people with disabilities to use their own personal assistive devices to
obtain goods, services or facilities offered by the County.
If a person with a disability is unable to access a good, service or facility through the use of their
own personal assistive device, the County will consult with the individual to determine an
alternate means.
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County of Elgin
Human Resources Policy Manual
Service Animals
The County will ensure that an individual accompanied by a service animal is permitted to enter
the premises with the animal and to keep the animal with the individual, unless the animal is
otherwise excluded by law from the premises.
If a service animal is excluded by law from the premises, the County will ensure that other
measures are available to ensure a person with a disability is able to obtain, use or benefit from
The individual with the service animal is responsible for the care and control of their service
animal at all times, while on County premises.
Support Person
The County will allow people with disabilities to be accompanied by a support person in all
County-owned and operated public facilities. The County reserves the right to request a person
with a disability to be accompanied by a support person when on the premises, but only if, after
consulting with the person with a disability and considers the available evidence, the County
determines that:
A support person is necessary to protect the health or safety of the person with a
disability or the health or safety or others on the premises; and
There is no other reasonable way to protect the health or safety of the person with a
disability and the health or safety of others on the premises.
Admission fees will be waived for support persons who accompany a person with a disability.
Temporary Service Disruptions
If a temporary service disruption is planned the County will give notice of the disruption.
Notice of the disruption will include: the reason for the disruption, its anticipated duration and
a description of alternative facilities or services, if any that are available.
Procedures for specific service disruptions will be developed, and a copy of the procedures will
be available to individuals upon request.
Notice will be given by posting the information in a conspicuous place as well as by posting the
information on the County or Library website.
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County of Elgin
Human Resources Policy Manual
Website and Web Content
are
created in a manner keeping with the expectations of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines
2.0 (WCAG). The County is currently creating websites and web content in accordance with
WCAG 2.0, level A and will ensure that websites and web content are created in accordance
with level AA by January 1, 2021. If an individual is having difficulty accessing any County owned
or operated website, or content found on said websites, they can contact the County.
Web Content
Accessible web content is being produced in the following ways:
In-house: Staff receive training that ensures PDF documents are created in accordance with
WCAG 2.0.
Purchased Documents or Videos: The Department purchasing a document or video that will be
te shall ensure that the document or video is created in a
manner that ensures compliance with WCAG 2.0.
Third-Party Documents: The County will put forward efforts to ensure that documents provided
to the County on behalf of a third party, that will be po
direct control of the County through a contractual relationship, will be remediated in
accordance with WCAG 2.0, unless it is not practicable to do so.
In the event that it is not practicable to remediate a third party document, for which the County
is not in direct control through a contractual relationship, a member of the public may contact
the County to arrange for the information to be provided in an accessible format, upon request.
The County will consult with the requesting individual to determine suitability of format.
Legislative Authority
Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005, S.O. 2005, c. 11
Integrated Accessibility Standard Regulation (O. Reg 191/11)
Ontario Human Rights Code, R.S.O. 1990, c. H. 19
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Annual Accessibility Status
Report
A SUMMARY OF ELGIN CHMENTS TOWARDS INCLUSION IN 2015-2016
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Objectives and Purpose
This is the Annual Accessibility Report Status update. In 2013, Elgin County
released our first Multi-Year Accessibility Plan, in accordance with the Accessibility for
Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation
(Ontario Regulation 191/11). The plan outlined our strategy to prevent and remove barriers to
accessibility, which included how we will meet phased-in requirements under the AODA.
In 2015, the County released its second Multi-Year Accessibility Plan, which will take the
This Status Report includes the accessibility initiatives that were completed in 2015 and 2016 to
implement the strategy outlined in our Multi-Year Accessibility Plan.
accessibility implementation and to prevent and remove barriers and meet requirements under
the AODA.
Compliance Reporting
Elgin County filed its third Accessibility Compliance Report in 2015 with the Accessibility
Directorate of Ontario under the Ministry of Economic Development Trade and Employment
Services.
of commitment is
publicly available on the County website.
The County of Elgin is committed to eliminating barriers and improving accessibility for
people with disabilities in a manner that respects dignity, independence, integration and
equal opportunity.
The County of Elgin recognizes the diverse needs of all our residents and customers and
will respond by striving to provide goods, services and facilities that are accessible to all.
The County of Elgin is committed to being responsive to the needs of all its residents
and employees. In order to meet the needs of people with disabilities the County will:
Ensure policies address dignity, independence, integration and provide for equal
opportunity for people with disabilities.
Allow people with disabilities to use their own personal devices to obtain, use or
benefit from the services offered by the County.
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Accommodate the accessibility needs of people with disabilities to ensure they
can obtain, use or ben
facilities.
Communicate with people with disabilities in a manner that takes into account
The County will promote accessibility by ensuring that compliance is met for all regulations
made under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005. Timelines for compliance
vary. In order to ensure that timelines are met, the County will establish, implement and
maintain a multi-year accessibility plan. The plan will outl
and remove barriers to people with disabilities.
Continuous Achievements in Accessibility
The County focuses on removing barriers which may exist in our buildings and
facilities, while ensuring that new buildings, leases, and renovations do not
create any new barriers.
Elgin County adopted an Accessibility Policy which outlines what the County will
do to comply with the Regulations and what our customer and employees can
expect.
Elgin County/Central Elgin Joint Accessibility Advisory Committee continues to
meet and review accessibility initiatives.
The County continues to comply with the requirements of the Customer Service
Standards including continuing to train staff, volunteers and third parties who
interact on behalf of the County on an ongoing basis.
The Joint Accessibility Advisory Committee is consulted on matters of
accessibility for municipal site plans and legislated areas under the AODA.
All library branches continue to provide accessible materials and communication
supports upon request. In addition the library has several accessible materials
and resources available including but not limited to: large print books, audio
books, CELA Library loan access , electronic materials with zoom features, hand-
held magnifiers as well as ZoomText with large print keyboards in every library
branch.
Notifying the public of accommodations for applicants with disabilities in its
recruitment process.
Continue to review customer feedback and take appropriate action.
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Highlights of 2015 and 2016
Training for all staff on the Integrated Accessibility Standard and updated
Corporate Accessibility Policy (2014)
o Ongoing training for new staff
Training for all staff on the Ontario Human Rights Code as it pertains to people
with disabilities (2014)
o Ongoing training for new staff
On-going training for staff on the Customer Service Standard
County strives to meet ongoing compliance with the Customer Service Standard
Developed training manual for volunteers
On-going training for staff on creating accessible documents
Accessibility Coordinator continues to work with local municipalities to ensure
compliance with all regulations
Updated Performance Appraisal policy to include statement around
accommodation plans (March 2015)
Updated Joint Accessibility Advisory Committee Terms of Reference in
accordance with updated legislation and repeal of Ontarians with Disabilities Act,
2001
Update Corporate Accessibility Policy (November 2016)
Launched online accessibility training modules to maximize efficiency
Created training plan to align with training requirements under the Integrated
Accessibility Standards Regulation
Secure funding under the Enabling Accessibility Fund in order to purchase hand-
held magnifiers for the Library branches.
Accessibility Coordinator assists local municipalities with facility audits
Submit compliance report to Accessibility Directorate of Ontario in 2015
o Participate in File Review with the Accessibility Directorate of Ontario in
2016
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Availability of the Plan and Status Report
The Multi-Year Accessibility Plan and Annual Accessibility Status Reports can be accessed
thhttp://www.elgincounty.ca/main-menu/county-
council/accessibility
Contact Information
For more information contact
Phone 519-631-1460 ext. 167
Fax 519-633-7785
Email jcowan@elgin.ca
Mail Accessibility Coordinator
County of Elgin, Human Resources Dept.
450 Sunset Drive,
St. Thomas, ON N5R 5X7
Accessible formats and communication supports available upon request.
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Accessibility Training Plan for Employees (2017)
Purpose: to outline the required accessibility training for new and existing employees.
Existing Managers, Supervisors or staff with direct reports are required to complete training
modules 1-4, where appropriate. Note: not all Managers, Supervisors or staff with direct
reports are required to complete all four modules. See attachment for specifications.
New employees who are Managers, Supervisors or staff with direct reports will be required to
complete the training modules 1-4, where appropriate when they are hired.
ALL employees will receive training on the updated legislation and policies. This is required by
the Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation. It is anticipated that this will be facilitated
through the online training system, for tracking purposes and will likely take 5-10 minutes.
Training for Existing Employees:
1.Accessible Employment (Existing - Managers, Supervisors, Staff with direct reports)
a.Accessible Recruitment how to recruit with inclusivity; how to write inclusive
job descriptions; inclusive recruitment questions; what does accommodation
mean for the recruitment process
b.Supporting staff with disabilities how to support staff members who have a
disability; respecting personal information of staff members who disclose a
disability;
Approximately 20-30 minutes
2.Accessible Procurement (Existing - Purchasing, Senior Management, Managers) how
to incorporate accessibility into purchases
Approximately 10-15 minutes
3.Design of Public Spaces (Existing - Engineering and Planning)
a.General Design of Public Spaces overview
Approximately 10-15 minutes
4.Assistive Technology Training (Existing Library Branch)
a.Review of how to use assistive technology offered at the branches (ZoomText)
Approximately 20-30 minutes (TBD)
November 1, 2016
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Training for New Employees:
5. (ALL New Employees ONLY)
a.Ontario Human Rights Code how OHRC relates to people with disabilities and
the AODA; Duty to accommodate;
b.General Information/Communication overview of the Information and
Communication Standards; how to meet the needs of customers with different
communication disabilities
c.General Employment overview of the employment standard
d.General Accessible Customer Service overview of Customer Service Standard;
serving customers with different disabilities; what to do if someone has difficulty
accessing services
6.Accessible Customer Service (ALL New Employees ONLY)
a.Service Animals service animals are welcome; how to ask for confirmation that
the animal is a allowed; how to handle conflicts
b.Support Persons what is a support person; role of the support person; tips on
customer service
c.Service Disruptions what is a service disruption; how to report; what tools are
available
d.Assistive devices/technology understand how different technologies assist
people with disabilities; understand how different devices assist people with
disabilities
7.Accessible Information and Communications (ALL New Non-Union and Managers ONLY)
a.Introduction to Info/Comm understand what kind of information and
accessible
b.Guide to Alternate Formats and Communication Supports what are alternate
formats; what are communication supports; how to access/create alternate
formats and communication supports
8.Accessible Electronic Communications (Most NEW Admin staff who prepare reports for
Council)
a.Creating Accessible Word, Excel and PowerPoint Documents
November 1, 2016
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REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL
FROM: Peter Dutchak,Deputy Director of Engineering Services
DATE: November 4, 2016
SUBJECT: School Zone Signage
INTRODUCTION:
th
At the October 18, 2016 meeting of County Council a report was presented in
response to a letter from the Port Stanley Community Policing Committee requesting
additional safety signage for the Port Stanley Public School on Carlow Road.
The following resolution was passed:
THAT staff be directed to prepare a report for Councils consideration on the costs for
establishing community safety zones; and,
That the OPP be requested to increase traffic enforcement on Carlow Road near Port
Stanley Public School immediately; and,
THAT each municipality be requested to provide feedback on the need and desire for
Community Safety Zones at schools in their communities; and,
THAT
Committee and
Director of Engineering Services, dated September 28, 2016, be received and filed.
This report provides options for school zone signing in order to create a consistent
signing scheme for all schools along county roads.
DISCUSSION:
There are 12 schools known to staff that are adjacent to Elgin County roads. Each one
of these school zones has consistent signage.Specifically, each school has florescent
yellow School Area signs and the road is posted at a maximum 50km/h speed limit.
In addition, 4 schools are also Community Safety Zones - Dutton/Dunwich Public
School, Springfield Public School, McGregor Public School in Aylmer and New Sarum
Public School.These areas are currently signed as 50km/h with Community Safety
Zone designations.
Currently, no additional road signage is automatically warranted in any school zone
adjacent to an Elgin County road, however, options for additional signage and/or
lowered posted speed limits are available to County Council.
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Community Safety Zones
Community Safety Zones are identified by signage and a by-law to inform drivers that
they are entering a zone that the community has designated as an area where driver
vigilance is paramount. Fines under the Highway Traffic Act may be doubled within
these zones.
Ideally, there should be documented evidence that public safety is of special concern in
. Police enforcement is integral to
modify driving behaviours
dismissed by the driver if the road itself and its adjacent land use do not communicate
to the driver that this section of roadway is obviously different.
County Council established the following warrant criteria to establish a Community
Safety Zone:
THAT all future requests for Community Safety Zones use the following policy to
determine if the zone is warranted:
In order for the establishment of a Community Safety Zone the area must comply
with 3 out of 4 of the following criteria:
Minimum traffic volume of 2,500 vehicles per day
High truck traffic (>5%)
High volume of children/seniors crossing the road or walking on the
shoulder of the road where sidewalks are not present (school or seniors
home near or within area)
Poor sight distance for the posted speed limit.
THAT regardless of this policy, Council may elect to grant requests received by
local municipal councils at any time so long as all costs are borne by the
requesting municipality.
Although all school zone areas do not automatically warrant the establishment of
Community Safety Zones, Council may choose to implement them if requested by local
municipal councils and at their cost.
The cost to implement Community Safety Zones at the remaining 8 schools adjacent to
Elgin County roads is estimated at $10,000.Community Safety Zone area by-laws may
specify hours, days and months of the year when the by-law is in effect.
Reduced Speed Zones 40km/h
As noted above, every school zone along a County road is posted at 50km/h. Some
communities have established 40km/h reduced speed zones in every school zone.
Other jurisdictions have only reduced speed at schools within built-up communities, and
not in rural school areas where students are predominantly bussed.
Jurisdictions that have implemented 40km/h school zones cite theclear link between
slower speeds and fewer crashes and injuriesto pedestrians.
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Drivers will always tend to drive at a speed that feels safe and comfortable travelling
based upon the road conditions and roadside environment. Establishing a 40km/h
reduced speed along some locations may not automatically be adhered to by drivers,
therefore, police enforcement will play a key role in the successful implementation and
ongoing effectiveness of lowered speed zones in school areas.
The cost to implement a 40km/h reduced speed zone policy across the 12 schools on
county roads would be approximately $15,000.
Reduced Speed Zones 40km
An option exists to install a reduced speed zone system with flashing beacons during
times of the day when students arrive and depart the school. The advantage of this
system is that traffic moves past the school at normal speeds most of the time. At
critical times when students are arriving and departing the school, flashing beacons
to motorists.
The main disadvantage of this type of system is cost and maintenance. Staff obtained a
quote to install a solar powered system with cellular communication to program the
timer and calendar to correspond with school timing for a price of $40,000 per school
zone and therefore this option is not recommended due to a nearly $500,000 initial cost
to implement at all schools adjacent to county roads.
In addition, one study concluded that the increased effectiveness of a flashing beacon
system as compared to a continuous 40km/h zone (sign only) is not necessarily greater.
In contrast, the placement of signs without the flashing lights results in the 40 km/h
speed limit being in effect at all times. Schoolplaygrounds attract community activity
during non-school times, therefore, maintaining a lower speed limit atall times may be
beneficial.
School Zones adjacent to County Roads Signing Policy - Summary of Options
Current Practice
All school zones adjacent to a county road are posted at 50km/h and have high intensity
reflectivity florescent yellow School Area signs (blue signs are standard).
Option #1 Add Community Safety Zone signage
All school zones adjacent to a county road are posted at 50km/h, have oversized (80cm
x 80cm) florescent yellow School Area signs and are signed as Community Safety
Zones. This would require 8 additional school zones to be established as community
safety zones along with preparing corresponding by-laws. Staff recommends that the
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Community Safety Zone be in effect from September 1 to June 30 annually.Existing
School Area signs would be replaced with larger ones.The cost to implement this
option is estimated at $12,500.
Option #2 Reduce Speed to 40km/h and add Community Safety Zone signage
All school zones adjacent to a county road are posted at 40km/h, have oversized (80cm
x 80cm) florescent yellow School Area signs and are signed as Community Safety
Zones. This would require 8 additional school zones to be established as Community
Safety Zones along with preparing corresponding by-laws. It is recommended that the
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Community Safety Zone be in effect from September 1 to June 30 annually. This
would also establish 12 new 40km/h reduced speed zones. Staff recommends the
40km/h zones extend 150m beyond the school property limits.Existing School Area
signs would be replaced with larger ones.The cost to implement this option is
estimated at $27,500.
Of these two options, staff recommends Option #1 at an estimated cost of $12,500
funded from the anticipated capital surplus in the Intersection Signs Replacement
project (#62601601). As stated above, this option would consistently sign all county
road school areas with larger florescent yellow School Area Signs and designate all
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school zones as Community Safety Zones from September 1 to June 30 annually.
Once this signing scheme is implemented its effectiveness can be monitored. The
opportunity to additionally implement 40km/h reduced speeds zones across all schools
will always be available to Council at any future time.
CONCLUSION:
At present, every school adjacent to an Elgin county road has florescent yellow School
Area Signs and is posted at 50km/h. Four schools are also signed as Community
Safety Zones. No additional signage is automatically warranted in school zones.
Council has the option to provide additional signage on roadways in school zones and
this report has provided some information on these options. Staff has recommended
that Option #1 be implemented across all schools adjacent to county roads at this time.
Council has also directed staff to request municipalities to provide feedback on the need
and desire for Community Safety Zones at schools along County roads in their
communities.This will be done once County Council approves what type of signage
scheme should exist.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
THAT a consistent roadway signing policy be implemented at each school zone along
an Elgin County road as follows:
All school zones adjacent to a county road are posted at 50km/h, have oversized
(80cm x 80cm) florescent yellow School Area signs and are signed as
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Community Safety Zones from September 1 to June 30 annually; and,
THAT each municipality be requested to provide a list of schools along County roads in
their communities; and,
THAT each municipality indicate the need and desire to have a Community Safety Zone
established at schools in their communities adjacent to County roads.
All of which is Respectfully Submitted Approved for Submission
Peter Dutchak Mark G. McDonald
Deputy Director of Engineering Services Chief Administrative Officer
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REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL
FROM: Jeff Lawrence, Tree Commissioner/Weed Inspector
DATE: November 3, 2016
SUBJECT: Tree Commissioner/Weed Inspector Year End Report for 2016
INTRODUCTION:
The following is a summary of activity related to the Elgin Woodlands Conservation By-
Law for the period of November 1, 2015 to October 31, 2016 and weed inspection activity
for the 2016 season.
DISCUSSION:
Logging Activity/Applications to Harvest:
A total of 195 applications to harvest were submitted from November 1, 2015 to October
31, 2016. This number is up from 187 in 2015. Applications were filed by municipality as
follows: West Elgin 26 (25), Dutton/Dunwich 28 (45), Southwold 19 (23), Central Elgin 27
(16), Malahide 35 (29), and Bayham 60 (49). The total volume harvested was up as well
from three and three quarter million board feet to over four and a half million board feet.
The total forested area involved in these harvests was approximately 5900 acres.(2015
totals are in brackets).
Applications for Woodland Clearings:
There were six applications received to clear portions of woodlands within the county in
2016, for a total area to be cleared of 3.46 hectares (~8.55 acres). These applications
were approved conditional upon conformity with Elgi
Violations:
There were a number of circumstances where trees were cleared by landowners without
first receiving the required permit or authorization.Most of these situations were
considered minor and were resolved.
Weed Complaints and Orders:
A total of 12 weed related complaints were received over the summer of 2016. This
number is down from 19 in 2015.
Giant Hogweed continues to be a concern to residents of Elgin County. One new site
along the banks of Kettle Creek was identified in 2016.The landowner has taken efforts
to eliminate the plant at this location and will continue to monitor the site.
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Meetings and Workshops:
The Tree By-law Enforcement Officers annual workshop was hosted by the Town of
Whitby this year. The workshop provided opportunity for By-law enforcement officers to
discuss common issues, as well as updates on tree harvest and management topics,
including the Ontario Tree Marking Course.
The Woodlands Conservation By-law was promoted at the Western Fair Farm Show in
March and at the Elgin-Middlesex Woodlot Owners Association annual meeting in April.
The presentation was given at the Carolinian Forest Festival.
Two public information sessions were hosted in June in Belmont and Port Stanley to
obtain feedback from the public regarding a proposed amendment to Elgin County
Woodlands Conservation By-law 05-03 to include additional regulation of tree removal on
identified slopes within the Municipality of Central Elgin.
Promotional Campaign:
Efforts undertaken over the past few years to improve public awareness of Elgin County
Woodlands Conservation By-law 05-03, including the distribution of mini-posters and the
tri-fold brochure at various locations though out the county, will continue in 2017.
CONCLUSION/RECOMMENDATION:
THAT the report titled Tree Commissioner/Weed Inspector Year End Report for 2016
from the Tree Commissioner/Weed Inspector, dated November 1, 2016 be received and
filed.
All of which is Respectfully Submitted Approved for Submission
Jeff Lawrence Mark G. McDonald
Tree Commissioner/Weed Inspector Chief Administrative Officer
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CLOSED MEETING AGENDA
November 22, 2016
Staff Reports:
1) Director of Human Resources Municipal Act Section 239.2 (b) personal
matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board
employees and 239.2 (d) labour relations or employee negotiations 2016
Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Negotiations Mandate
2) Director of Human Resources Municipal Act Section 239.2 (b) personal
matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board
employees and 239.2 (d) labour relations or employee negotiations
Succession Planning 2016 (circulated under separate cover)