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June 10, 2003 Agenda ORDERS OF THE DA Y FOR TUESDA Y. JUNE 10. 2003 - 9:00 A.M. PAGE # ORDER 1st Meeting Called to Order 2nd Adoption of Minutes - meeting of May 27, 2003 3rd Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof 4th Presenting Petitions, Presentations and Delegations DELEGATION: 9:00 a.m. - Dave Phillips, Town Crier, to read greetings from Prime Minister Jean Chretien re: the Talbot Bicentennial Motion to Move Into "Committee Of The Whole Council" Reports of Council, Outside Boards and Staff Council Correspondence - see attached 1) Items for Consideration 2) Items for Information (Consent Agenda) OTHER BUSINESS 1) Statements/Inquiries by Members 2) Notice of Motion 3) Matters of Urgency 9th In-Camera Items (see separate agenda) 10th Recess 11th Motion to Rise and Report 12th Motion to Adopt Recommendations from the Committee Of The Whole 13th Consideration of By-Laws 14th ADJOURNMENT 5th 1 6th 7th 2-12 13-39 8th LUNCH WILL BE PROVIDED CA,'iAC)A ?R¡MS ;\-i¡NiS-r=:R: PRZM¡SR MiNìSTR2: It gives me great pleasure to extend my warmest greetings to everyone celebrating the bicentennial anniversary of the establishment of the Talbot Settlement. For two hundred years, the residents of this community have shared their hopes and dreams, building a better life for their children and their children's children. As you gather on this festive occasion, you will no doubt take the time to reflect upon the rich history of this settlement. I understand that -- to mark such an historic occasion -- you will be erecting a special monument in honour of a former resident, the noted international economist, author and diplomat, Mr. John Kenneth Galbraith. This is a tremendous honour and is testimony to the high esteem in which Mr. Galbraith is held by the community and, indeed, all Canadians. I am certain that this monument will inspire others and be a source of great pride for those living in the region. I know that the community of Talbot will continue to grow and flourish as part of our strong and vibrant nation. Please accept my best wishes for a most enjoyable and memorable event. ~~ - OTTAWA 2003 REPORTS OF COUNCIL AND STAFF June 10th, 2003 Staff Reports - (ATTACHED) Manager of Engineering Services -' Belmont Road Rehabilitation Tender Results (to be sent out on June 6th, 2003 Friday Fax) Director of Financial Services, Manager of Engineering Services and County Archivist - Pioneer Museum/Archives Feasibility Study & Museum Lease and Museum Lease Extension Manager of Engineering Services - Elgin Manor Sewage Treatment Plant (report walked into Council 06/10/03) "report deferred to In-Camera Agenda" / REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: CLAYTON WATTERS, MANAGER ENGINEERING SERVICES DEPARTMENT DATE: JUNE 6, 2003 SUBJECT: BELMONT ROAD REHABILITATION TENDER RESULTS Introduction As part of the approved 2003 Capital Budget and in conjunction with the Municipality of Central Elgin's waterline replacement project, Belmont Road (County Road #74) through the Village of Belmont is being rehabilitated. Council has retained the services of Dillon Consulting along with the Municipality of Central Elgin to design, inspect and administer this project. Tenders were advertised as per the County's purchasing policy and closed on June 5, 2003. Discussion The County of Elgin was uploaded this portion of County Road #74 in 2002 and requested by the Municipality of Central Elgin to rehabilitate the road in conjunction with their waterline replacement project in 2003. The roadway will be disrupted from the waterline installation and it was logical to rehabilitate the entire road surface at one time and under one contract. To avoid duplication and simplify administration, only one contract for the entire project (roadwork and waterline) will be executed by the County of Elgin. Following project completion, Central Elgin will be billed by the County for their portion of the project. Tenders were received until June 5th, 2003 and a were opened at the offices of Central Elgin with representatives from Dillon, The County of Elgin and The Municipality of Central Elgin present. A summary of the companies and their respective quotations (including taxes) are listed below. Contractor Price (Excluding Taxes) Elgin Construction $1,182,517.21 Birnam Excavating Ltd. $ 1,246,527.36 Terra Construction $ 1,298,000.00 United Contracting (London) $ 1,406,738.00 Ingerwood Construction Limited $ 1,455,268.09 Omega Contractors $ 1,483,573.62 Bre-Ex Limited $1,567,026.13 The lowest price received to complete the proposed work was submitted from Elgin Construction at a cost of $1,182,517.21 (including taxes). Dillon Consulting Limited has recommended that from Elgin Construction be awarded the contract. ~ ., G:\Council Reports\2003\Belmont Road Tender Results.doc Page 1 of2 REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: CLAYTON WATTERS, MANAGER ENGINEERING SERVICES DEPARTMENT DATE: JUNE 6,2003 SUBJECT: BELMONT ROAD REHABILITATION TENDER RESULTS Conclusion As part of the approved 2003 Capital Budget, Belmont Road through the Village of Belmont will be reconstructed in conjunction with the Municipality of Central Elgin's watermain replacement project. Dillon Consulting has designed, tendered and received prices to complete the project. The lowest price submitted was received from Elgin Construction and Dillon Consulting has recommended selecting this contractor to complete the work. The lowest tender received was in the total amount of $1,182,517.21 of which, $540,471.27 is the County of Elgin's share to complete the road and storm sewer work. This amount falls within estimated and budgeted figures. The County of Elgin will enter into the contract with the contractor to avoid duplication and reduce administration and invoice Central Elgin for their portion of the project once the project has been completed this year. Recommendation THAT Elgin Construction be awarded the project for the installation of a waterline and the reconstruction of Belmont Road for their submitted tender price of $1,182,517.21 (including taxes); and also, THAT the Warden and CAO be authorized and directed to sign the contract with Elgin Construction for this project; and also, RESPECT FULL Y SUBMITTED œvJ~. APPROVED FOR SUBMISSION U MARK LD CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER CLAYTON D. WATTERS, MANAGER ENGINEERING SERVICES G:\Council Reports\2003\BeImont Road Tender Results.doc Page 2 of2 REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Linda Veger, Director of Financial Services Clayton Watters, Manager of Engineering Services Brian Masschaele, Archivist DATE: 29 May 2003 SUBJECT: Pioneer Museum / Archives Feasibility Study & Museum Lease Extension INTRODUCTION County Council approved funds for an architectural firm to engage in a feasibility study and public consultation process for a future location for the Elgin County Pioneer Museum as well as an expansion to the Elgin County Archives and related uses. This report provides information on the process to date and recommends a firm to conduct this work. It also recommends a one-year extension to the Pioneer Museum's current lease to enable the process to unfold. DISCUSSION: Members of County Council approved funds from the Millrate Stabilization Reserve during the March 25th, 2003 meeting (approximately $20,000) to engage an architectural firm to develop a conceptual drawing for a future location for the Elgin County Pioneer Museum as well as a possible expansion for the Elgin County Archives and other related uses. The study is to include an extensive public consultation phase to enable Council to determine future priorities and gauge the public's interest in this project. Staff subsequently formed a taskforce comprised of the Director of Financial Services, Manager of Engineering Services, Corporate Facilities Officer, County Archivist, Museum Manager and a representative of the Museum Board to discuss next steps and terms of reference for an architectural study. The following terms of reference were developed and submitted to architectural firms for formal bids: · Preparation and evaluation of a questionnaire for potential stakeholders (with extensive input from County staff); · Facilitation of at least one public meeting; · Three presentations to County Council: first, to determine Council's vision before any plans are developed; second, following input from public consultations, visit Council with a preliminary report; and third, present a final report to Council complete with drawing and building estimates; · Preparation of schematic conceptual floor plan; · Written description of conceptual plan outlining the space provided for each component and the function of the space as it pertains to its uses; · Preparation of preliminary construction budget. 2 Four firms responded with a bid to lead this process. The following is a summary of the quotes received (inclusive of all expenses and taxes unless otherwise indicated): · The Ventin Group, Simcoe $11,772 + disbursements · Allan Avis Architect, Goderich $15,000 - 20,000 + G.S.T. + disbursements · Goldsmith, Borgal & Company, Toronto $23,900 · Black and Moffat Architects, Toronto $28,890 Staff feel that it is also imperative that the successful firm have a proven track record leading such a process given how critical this phase is to the success and feasibility of any subsequent building project. Further criteria were therefore established to assess bid quality in addition to price. These criteria included previous experience with similar projects, project team composition (such as time spent by architects versus technicians) and additional consultants to the project within the stated fee. Each of these criteria were assigned points based on the following system: Maximum Points · Fee · Previous Experience · Project Team Composition · Value Added Consultants 40 30 20 10 Total 100 Based on these total assessment criteria, staff are recommending that Goldsmith, Borgal & Company be selected to conduct this study based on their recent experience in developing similar centres within the County of Bruce and County of Huron (among others), reference checks with these municipalities and their extensive background in heritage planning. Their proposal includes the resources of a well respected allied consultant called Canadian Cultural Resource Consultants. Staff feel that it is imperative during this consultative phase to have the expertise of a firm that has been through this process before. Their proposal represents the best value and expertise to the County. It is expected that once a firm is selected, the consultation process will begin in early fall 2003 with a public meeting held by the end of 2003. Given that the outcome of this process may result in new accommodation for the Pioneer Museum, or will at least identify other options, staff recommend that the Museum's current lease at 449 Talbot Street be extended from August 315" 2003 for a period of one year to minimize disruption to the program until future options become clearer. 3 2 CONCLUSION: County Council approved funds for an architectural firm to engage in a feasibility study and public consultation process for a future location for the Elgin County Pioneer Museum and an expansion for the Elgin County Archives as well as related uses. Staff subsequently established terms of reference for this study and invited proposals from architectural firms. Four proposals were received. Staff are recommending that the firm of Goldsmith, Borgal & Company of Toronto be contracted for this study according to the terms of reference contained in this report. Staff furthermore recommend that the Elgin County Pioneer Museum's current lease be extended for a minimum of one year to allow the process to unfold and to minimize further disruptions to their operations. RECOMMENDATION: THAT the firm Goldsmith, Borgal & Company of Toronto be awarded the contract to engage in a feasibility study, public consultation process and conceptual drawing for a future location for the Elgin County Pioneer Museum and an expansion for the Elgin County Archives as well as related uses based on the terms of reference contained in this report; THAT funds be allocated from the Millrate Stabilization Reserve as approved by County Council on March 25th, 2003 (approximately $20,000 plus applicable taxes and disbursements); AND THAT the current lease of the Elgin County Pioneer Museum at 449 Talbot Street be extended for a period of one year from August 31st, 2003 to August 31st, 2004. Z~Ub~:d Linda Veger #J Dire(jJ;J; t¡;cial Services Clayton Watters Manager of Engineering Services ~~ Brian Masschaele Archivist 4 3 CORRESPONDENCE - June 10. 2003 Items for Consideration 1. Jon Skafel, President, Alzheimer Society Elgin-St. Thomas, with a request for the County to renew its membership for 2003. (ATTACHED) 2. Councillor Elisabeth Arnold, Co-Chair, NHPOT, Federation of Canadian Municipalities, requesting funding for the work being done by the FCM National Housing Policy Options Team for affordable housing. (ATTACHED) 3. Earl D. Moore, Secretary, The Elgin Military Museum, requesting a meeting with County Council concerning the operations at the Elgin County Pioneer Museum. (ATTACHED) 4. Bonnie Kotnik, Director, Dr. Kiran Rabheru, Physician Leader, Geriatric Psychiatry Program and Sandy Whittall, Vice President, Mental Health Programs, St. Joseph's Health Care London, advising of the consolidation of the Geriatric Psychiatry Program to the London site. (ATTACHED) 5. Denis Kelly, Regional Clerk, York Region, with a resolution urging the Federal and Provincial Governments to give tax exempt status to employer-provided transit benefits. (ATTACHED) 6. Wendell Graves, Town of Aylmer, with a report regarding a strategic look at the Aylmer Library. 7. Laura Moy, AMCT, Clerk, Town of Tecumseh, with a resolution requesting an extension of the completion date for the adoption by municipalities of an emergency management program and by-law to December 31, 2004. 8. Municipality of Central Elgin, with a resolution concerning federal and provincial elections being called when a municipal election is scheduled to be held. 9. Grace Hoshal, Assistant Secretary, Terrace Lodge Auxiliary, with a letter concerning the possible closure of the Terrace Lodge swimming pool. 10. Sharon Vokes, County Clerk, County of Grey, with a resolution concerning the negative impact on livestock industry by Mad Cow disease and need for government action. 11. Municipal Finance Officers' Association of Ontario, MFOA Bulletin, with Background Information - Municipal Referendum Requirement for Property Tax Rate Increases Proposed by PC Party of Ontario. ~ Alzheimer ELGIN ST. THOMAS. May 21, 2003 1MÄY, 23 2QQ3 ~- c~ County of Elgin 450 Sunset Dr St. Thomas ON N5R 5Vl ---, Dear County of Elgin, I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank you for your membership to the Alzheimer Society ofElgin-St. Thomas over the past year at the President's level. Our Society has experienced many success stories over the past year, all resulting from the efforts of many dedicated volunteers, staff members and donors like you. In January of 7002, our Society's Board of Directors undertook a strategic planning process, outlining a 1- year plan, incorporating eight main goals with related objectives. I would like to highlight a few of our accomplishments as a result of this process: ./ OUr Society's mission statement was reviewed and revised to reflect the true nature of our role within Elgin County; ./ a common understanding of the importance of our Society's commitment to research was solidified; ./ our Society's role with respect to advocacy was clearly identified; ./ a communication committee was formed and an overall communication strategy was initiated for our Society to reach all of our stakeholders that will further the objectives of our strategic plan and mission statement; ./ the Society's human resources were reviewed to ensure that the Chapter has adequate paid and volunteer resources to carryout our current programs and services, ensuring the provisions are in place to attract and retain competent, qualified personnel. In addition, our Society's work environment was reviewed to ensure a safe workplace with all required legislation in place; ./ new community relationships and partnerships were developed to further the awareness and education of Alzheimer Disease in our communities; ./ the Society has embarked on an exciting and innovative support and education plan called "Connection to Care", expanding our programs and services to reach a larger population of people living with varying effects of dementia in Elgin County. 450 Sunset Dr., Suite #229, St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 5V1 Bus. (519) 633-4396 +1-888-565-1111 + Fax. (519) 633-7028 email: remember@execulink.com + Web Site: www.execulink.com/-remember Charitable Registration No. 13498 3956 RR0001 Please see over 3 Our Board has provided outstanding leadership over the past year, ensuring the accomplishment of the goals and objectives set out in our I-year strategic plan. To continue this momentum, in March 2003, the Society as a whole has embarked upon a process to develop a 3-year strategic plan. This plan will encompass all aspects of our Society's programs, services and operations, ensuring our goals remain true to our Society's mission and vision. As President ofthe AJzheimer Society of Elgin S1. Thomas, I would like to invite you to join us in our exciting new ventures by renewing your membership with our Society for another year. Please find enclosed a membership renewal card that can be mailed or dropped off at our office. I also encourage you to attend our upcoming annual general meeting to exercise your voting privilege as a member of our Society and enjoy the evening's festivities with other fellow members, volunteers, caregivers and staff. Sincerely, ~~ Jon Skafel, President 4 2003 Membership Renewal Card Alzheimer Elgin - St. Thomas Yes, I would like to renew my membership to the Alzheimer Society . . of Elgin - St. Thomas - and help you improve your programs and services offered to Elgin County; " 450 Sunset Dr., Suite #229, St. Thomas, ON N5R 5V1. (519) 63:>-4396 (888)-565111 Charitable Registration NO. 13498 3956 RR001 Enclosed is my membership donation to the Alzheimer $ociety of Elgin-:- St. Thomas; D $50 - President's member 0 $20 -General member, Aduit 0 $15 -General member, Senior I prefer to give by: OCheque OVISA 0 MasterCard D Mrs. o Mr. o Miss .0 MS. Card#. Please print your:name and address in the space provided below. Expiry Date Phone ( Name: Address: City: Postal Code: Card Hoider Signature .....----:----... :/-'---....;::: ·qa.ll!asa.l .I0J ji!u!punJ pUI! Âal!;¡OApR 'UO!~l!m.loJU! 'SSaUa.II!Al.1! 'J.Ioddns 'uo¡Jl!anpa ji!U!p!AO.Id Aq S!q~ aAa!qal! aM. ·S.IaA!ji!;l.Il!a .Ipq~ pUI! sl!¡Juamap pa~l!p.I pUI! aSl!as!u .IampqZ(v q~!AI. suos.Iad JO aJ!I JO <4!1l!nb aq~ saz¡mHdo sl!moqJ. '~S-)I!ji!I::i[ JO <4apos .IaIÍI¡aqZ(v aqJ. :IU;}W;}¡RI-S UO!SSH\1 S'ltV\lOH.L ·.LS-NI913 ¡(¡d!JOSJaW!alfZIV~ 5 Alzheimer ELGIN ST. THOMAS The Alzheimer Society Board of Directors invites you to attend OUf... ANNuAL GENERAL MEETING & VOLUNTEER CELEBRATION Monday, June 23, 2003 7pm-9pm Knights of Columbus 265 Wellington St., S1. Thomas Fifty years ago in February 1952, Jeff Timmermans and Toni Vanderhyden 'immigrated to Canada from Hollånd. . They were married two years later ånd had great expectations of what life wonld be like in this county.> Illes III' Ie.ill În Snppili' of AUimimHr AWiII'eIlCSS Jeff'sjourn~ytook him frOnìPortRenfrew, British Columbia to Cape Spears, Newfomidlarrd; covering 8,286 kilometers. This incredible jònrney is known as Miles for Memories. "This experience has changed my life ... it has been an incredible journey!" ...In the summer of 2002, seventy- four year- old Jeff Timmermans cycled across Canada to raise funds and awareness to fight the devastation of Alzheimer Disease. Jeffknows first hand about this disease, as he is the primary caregiver for his wife Toni. , ..:.Jeffl1nimeffilans Please join our Society On June 23 as Jeff takes us "along for the ride". Jeffwill visually recount his journey across Canada and inspire us as caregivers sharing his persoual expeHences of how Alzheimer Disease has affected his life. ¿¡: ~ ¿¡: :3 CD en -+- o """"'I :3 CD :3 o """"'I CD en . ("') ~ ANNuAL GENERAL MEETING & VOLUNTEER CELEBRATION ~onday,June23,2003 Knights of Columbus, 265 Wellington Street, St. Thomas 7pm~9pm 7:00 pm AnnualGeneralMeeting 7;30 pm Milesfor Memories with Jeff Timmermans 8:30 pm Refreshments and Fellowship Please RSVP by Monday, June 16, 2003 633-4396 or 1-888-565-1111 6> Federation of Canadian Municipalities ~ Fédération canadienne des municipalités May 22, 2003 Please distribute to all members of Council FCM National Housina Policv Oøtions Team It has been a great year for the FCM National Housing Policy Options Team. We continued to expand our membership, including many mid-sized to smaller municipalities as well as the big cities and regions. With your expertise and assistance we have caused the federal government to continue to engage in the critical issues of homelessness and the need for affordable housing. The recent federal budget continued the Supporting Communities Partnership Initiative, so critical in the fight against homelessness, for another three years at $135 million per year; an additional $320 million over the next five years for affordable housing; and an extension of the Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program for three years at $128 million per year. That's another $1.1 billion dollars into housing and homelessness. With homelessness and affordable housing funds announced previously in the past three years, this brings our total, not even counting reduced GST on affordable housing or provincial/territorial contributions, to just over $2.5 billion. Not a bad return on our investment. However, there remains much to be done to turn those budget announcements into actual affordable units across the country. FCM, through the NHPOT, needs to work with all stakeholders to overcome barriers to implementation of the federal housing program. We will also work toward implementation of the balance of our policy options, including means to ensure that the private sector re-enters the market, in partnership with all orders of government, for a long-term solution to the current crisis. We ask your support in the form of a 1.5-cent per capita contribution, or any other amount your council would support. Participation entitles the donor to a position on the National Housing POlicy Options Team (NHPOT) Steering Committee. Please call John Surrett, at FCM, (613) 241-5221 (244), (iburrett~fcm.ca), who will be pleased to answer any questions you may have. Yours truly, ~iLÁYi1~ Councillor Elisabeth Amold Co-Chair, NHPOT 7 Federation ofç.n"d¡~n Municipalities FEDERATION OF CANADIAN MUNICIPALITIES 24 Clarence Street, Ottawa, Ontario, K1 N 5P3 SPECIAL CONTRIBUTION FORM For funding of the work of the FCM National Housing Policy Options Team until April 2004. The City/Region of contributes: $0.015 per capita other amount $ $ or to the FCM National Housing Policy Options Team for use in the period of April, 2003 to April, 2004. Please make your cheque payable to: The Federation of Canadian Municipalities Please write "For NHPOT, FCM Account # 303-1-4001" on the front of your cheque and attached to a copy of this form. Send to FCM, Attention: John Burrett, Economic and Social Policy Reference Date: Total Paid: Balance: 8 ":.:';:<;.;j:;' ~:\L;iT.J ."._b" , w ..'r)tJ c.ÞV{þ- ~~"( e VS\r;, PATRON: THE EARL OF ELGIN AND KINCARDINE TELEPHONE. MAY 28 21J{~ THE ELGIN MILITARY MUSEUl'v1;î¡~¡STF!P:ni, 30 Talbot Street, St. Thomas, Ontario NSP I A3 The Warden and Council, Corporation of the County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 5V1 May 27,2003 Your Worship and Members of Council; RE: Operations at the Elgin County Pioneer Museum For over a year now, the General Committee of The Elgin Military Museum has been frustrated in attempts to have input into the problems surrounding the Elgin County Pioneer Museum, its Board, and, it appears, County Council. We believe that we have a legitimate interest in what happens to your Museum as we physically share the same complex. Our efforts to communicate have resulted in what amounts to an insulting failure to share knowledge and ideas, or even to talk about the problems. We believe there are answers to the problem that would halt the apparent waste of County money and would provide a viable Pioneer Museum without the large amount of money now being expended for no appreciable benefit It is our belief that, in the long run our proposal could give significant savings. The Executive Committee of the Elgin County Pioneer Museum has indicated to us that they see no further need to discuss issues, hence our approach to you. Therefore, I have been instructed by our General Committee to make one more attempt. The Management Committee of the Elgin Military Museum is asking County Council to meet with us immediately either at the earliest County Council meeting or, if you would prefer, at a special meeting of Council, again, at the earliest possible time. We would request your urgent action on this matter. Yours truly, t:)ßJ,(þ-r-c Earl'D, Moore, Secretary 9 Regional Mental Health Care London (ÇJ Iv~ prr . , ts'Jº~£:I!i,~~d Geriatric Psychiatry Program ~ P.O. Box 5532, 5tation B (J 850 Highbury Avenue North Lond,on, ON N6A 4H1 (519) 455-5110, extension 47374 (519) 455-7151 Fax May 12, 2003 Ms. Pat Vandevenne, Director of Nursing Elgin Manor R.R.#l St. Thomas, ON N5P 3S5 Dear Ms. Vandevenne: On behalf of St. Joseph's Health Care London, we would like to take this opportunity to explain a change to the Geriatric Psychiatry Program at Regional Mental Health Care St. Thomas, which we believe will have a positive effect on the service we are able to provide to our clients. As you are aware, the Geriatric Psychiatry Program currently operates on two sites--one at Regional Menta] Health Care St. Thomas and the other at Regional Mental Health Care London. In order for us to provide the best possible care for our clients/patii:mts, we will be consolidating the program onto one site. In July, we will be Jilovin!L all of our 47 beds to London with no reduction in service provision. This move will provide our clients/patients with improved access to specialized geriatric services including the day treatment program as well as facility improvements such as some semi-private and private rooms. We are currently in the planning stages for these exciting changes. All members of our Geriatric psychiatry team are participating in the process as to the future program configuration and resulting staffmg requirements. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call Bonnie Kotnik or Dr. Kiran Rabheru (co-undersigned) at the number below their names. 2SCerelY\h, '. . . f\~t o e Kotriik, Director Geriatric Psychiatry Program 455-5110, ext. 47034 ~ Dr. Kiran Rabheru, Sandy Whittall, Physician Leader Vice President Geriatric Psychiatry Program Mental Health Programs 455-5110, ext. 47374 10 In ,the spirit of community, in thepursui~.ofheatth .." _.. .,,_,__:-:;~;; .~;.-.~_.pwn&d,,~d ~p~rate_d_b~ StJoseph's Health Care Society. Affillated_..mII the Un~rstly o~ w~m On~riO~.~ _ . __ ;-..' -";~.' ,'-'-(->SH!5~;'.':~-~:"·3;:-.<~-'·;·- \. .¡.''''':... - --""', - ',' ·"_':.~1:":'" 1,'- ~ _~:;-'-:'::'í::<:'_~~~~''''::''''-:._;- - Office of the Regional Clerk Corporate and Legal Services Department May 30, 2003 Mr. Mark McDonald Chief Executive Officer County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 5Vl JUN 3 2003 Dear Mr. McDonald: Re: Tax Exempt Transit Benefits The Regional Municipality of York supports the need for an amendment to Federal income tax legislation regarding employer-provided transit benefits. The proposed legislative change would mean that employer-purchased or supported transit benefits would cease to be treated as a taxable benefit for employees. It would also allow the employers to claim all or part of the cost of purchasing transit fare media for employees as a business expense. To this end, the Council of the Regional Municipality of York, at its meeting held on Thursday, May 22, 2003, passed the attached resolution urging the Federal and Provincial Governments to give tax exempt status to employer-provided transit benefits. We hereby request your Council's support and endorsement of the proposed legislative change. Sincerely, r4 Denis Kelly Regional Clerk Elma Stevenson/mg Attachment Copy to: Commissioner of Transportation and Works General Manager, York Region Transit Manager, Service Planning, York Region Transit 1 1 The Regional Municipality ofYark, 17250 Yonge Street} Newmarket} Ontario L3Y 621 Tel: 905-895-1231, 1-877-G04-YORK, Fax: 905-895-3031 Internet: www.region.yark.on.ca The following resolution was passed, as amended, by the Council of The Regional Municipality of York at its meeting on May 22,2003. Resolution of The Regional Municipality ofY ork Moved by Regional Councillor Diane Humeniuk Seconded by Regional Councillor David Barrow Whereas support for public transit encourages a shift rrom private automobile use resulting in an increase in transit market share thereby creating a more balanced transportation system consistent with and in support of Transportation Demand Management initiatives and Ontario's Smart Growth strategy; Whereas traffic congestion contributes to increased economic costs as a result of delays to businesses and commuters; Whereas traffic congestion leads to increased costs for road construction and maintenance and increased costs due tò traffic accidents; Whereas the increased use of public transit will decrease greenhouse gas emissions and ground level pollution which is responsible for an estimated 1,800 premature deaths annually in the GT A alone; Whereas a shift rrom private vehicle use to public transit will assist the Government of Canada to meet its obligations under the Kyoto Protocol; The Region ofY ork urges both the Federal and Provincial Governments to give tax-exempt status to employer-provided transit benefits; and This resolution be circulated to all Ontario Municipalities having a population of 50,000 or more; all municipalities in the Greater Toronto Area; area Members of Parliament and Members of Provincial Parliament; the Association of Municipalities of Ontario; the Federation of Canadian Municipalities; the Urban Development Institute; the Canadian Urban Transit Association; area Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade; and the Ontario and Canadian Chambers of Commerce for their support and endorsement. 1 2 CORRESPONDENCE - June 10. 2003 Items for Information - (Consent Aaenda) 1. Steve Peters, M.P.P., Elgin-Middlesex-London, supporting Council's resolutions: 1) Honourable Elizabeth Witmer, Minister of Education, re: the "School To Work Transition Program" within the Thames Valley District School Board; 2) Honourable Janet Ecker, Minister of Finance, re: review of the property taxation capping program. 2. Honourable Chris Stockwell, Minister of the Environment, concerning Council's support of the resolution by Haldimand County regarding nutrient management relating to the treatment of septic sewage. (ATTACHED) 3. Thank you card from: Corrie Shivak; Steve Bailey, Family and Children's Services; Carrie Shea, Elgin County 4H; Ron Langley, St. Thomas Gun Club. (ATTACHED) 4. Ontario News Release Communique, "Eves Government to Provide Affordable High- Speed Internet to Elgin County". (ATTACHED) 5. Tim Burns, Director, Long-Term Care Facilities, Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, advising of the annual adjustment to the accommodation rates at the Homes. (ATTACHED) 6. Marcel Re9helini, Director, Regulatory Affairs, Union Gas, with a copy of the application filed with the Ontario Energy Board for orders approving or fixing just and reasonable rates and other charges for the sale, distribution, transmission and storage of gas as of January 1,2004 and January 1,2005. (copy of Notice available for viewing in Administration Services) 7. Honourable Carl DeFaria, Minister of Citizenship, with information and nomination forms for the 2003 Senior Achievement Awards Program. (ATTACHED) 8. Honourable Norman Sterling, Attorney General, Minister Responsible for Native Affairs, regarding the distribution of racetrack slot revenues earned by host municipalities and surrounding municipalities. (ATTACHED) 9. Ken Boshcoff, President, Association of Municipalities of Ontario, with copy of correspondence to the Honourable Norm Sterling, Attorney General and Minister Responsible for Native Affairs, regarding the promised consultation on the streamlining of the Provincial Offences Act. (ATTACHED) 10. Honourable Elizabeth Witmer, Deputy Premier, Minister of Education, concerning Council's recommendation regarding the closure of rural schools. (ATTACHED) 11. David J. Johnson, Chair, Sports Alliance of Ontario, inviting municipalities to bid on holding one of the multi-sports competition Ontario Games. (additional information re: Ontario Games Bid Guidelines available in Administrative Services) 12. Scott Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer and Kathy Zammit, Chief Returning Office, Association of Municipalities of Ontario, with information and nomination forms for the 2003-2004 AMO Board of Directors. (ATTACHED) 13. AMO Annual Conference - August 17_29th, 2003 Accommodation Information and Registration Form for the Conference. 14. AMO Member Communication ALERT - "AMO Will Not Help Write Tax Referendum Legislation"; and AMO Member Communication FOR YOUR INFORMATION - "Ontario Centre for Municipal Best Practices Releases Its First Annual Report. 15. Ross Snetsinger, Chair, Rail Ways to the Future Committee, with copy of correspondence to Honourable Frank Klees, Minister of Transportation regarding CASO. Room 331 Main Legislative Building Queen's Park Toronto, Ontario M7A 1A4 ~ Ontario Constituency Office: 542 Talbot Street 51. Thomas, Ontario N5P 1C4 Tel: (416) 325"7250 Fax: (416) 325-7262 Email: steve_peters-mpp @ontla.ola.org STEVE PETERS, M.P;P. EI.GIN - MIDDLESEX - t.C>NDON Tel: (519) 631-0666 Fax: (519) 631-9478 Toll Free: 1'800-265-7638 Email: steve _peters-mpp-co @ontla.ola.org MAY 21 2003 May 14, 2003 Honourable Elizabeth Witmer Minister of Education 22nd Floor, Mowat Block 900 Bay Street Toronto, ON M7A IL2 Dear Minister: Please fmd enclosed resolutions fÌ'om the Town of Aylmer and the County of Elgin that support and encourage the 'School To Work Transition Program' within the Thames Valley District School Board. Minister, the School To Work Transition Program is a worthy recipient óf grant funds. As you are probably aware, the program is designed to help students acquire the skills necessary to be a contributing member of the workforce after graduating high school. These students may not have the option to attend a post-secondary education institution and this program prepares them to enter the workforce directly. Minister, I would appreciate the continuation of funding towards the School To Work Transition Program by your ministry. I would also appreciate your reviewing the resolutions, responding to the Town of Aylmer and the County of Elgin and forwarding copies of your letters to my office. Thank you in advance for your time and consideration. S~~ Steve Peters, M.P.P. Elgin-Middlesex-London Cc: Mr. Scott Howard, Co-operative Education Head, Parkside Collegiate Institute Ms. Joyce Bennett, Chairperson, Thames Valley District School Board Town of Aylmer County of Elgin Mr. Gerard Kennedy, Ontario Liberal Education Critic Room 331 Main Legislative Building Queen's Park Toronto, Ontario M7A 1M ~ Ontario Constituency Office: 542 Taiba! Street St. Thomas, Ontario N5P 1 C4 Tel:{519) 631-0666 Fax: (519) 631-9478 Toll Free: 1-800-265-7638 E:rn¡¡il: 9teve _peters-mpp-co @ontla.ola.org Tel: (416)325172[;0 Fax: (416)'325-7262 Email: steve__þet~rs-rnþþ @ontla.bla.()rg , STEVE PETERS, M.P.P. ELGIN - MIDDLESEX - LONDON M..4Y 22 2!JD3 May 12, 2003 Honourable Janet Ecker Minister of Finance 7'h Floor, Frost Building South TQueen's Park Crescent Toronto, ON M7A 1Y7 Dear Minister: Please find enclosed resolutions from the County of Elgin and the City ofS1. Thomas that support a City of Woodstock resolution calling on your government to immediately review your property taxation capping program with the aim to eliminate the program completely. I would appreciate your ministry looking into this issue, responding to the County of Elgin and the City of S1. Thomas and forwarding copies of your letters to my office. Thank you in advance for your time and consideration. Sincerely, ~~ Steve Peters, M.P.P. E1gin- Middlesex-London Cc: County of Elgin, 450 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas, Ontario, N5R 5V1 CityofSt. Thomas, P.O. Box 520, City Hall, St. Thomas, Ontario, N5P 3V7 Ministry of.the Envirónment Ministère de l'E,nvironnemeflt BurEi"au dirministre œJ -"- ...."... OntariO c . Office ofth'e Minister 135 51. Cia:;' Ave. West 12th Floor Toronto ON M4V ,1 P5 Tel (416) 314-6790 Fax (416) 314-6748 135,:·_BvenÜe. StClairouest . 12' étage Toronto ON M4V 1P5 Tél (416) 314-6790 Téléc (416) 314-6748 FileNµmber 81958 f~.AY 21 2003 Mrs. Sandra J. Hefften DePlltyClerk County ofElgin 450SlffisetDrive , St. Thomas ON N5R 5V1 ¡ t.!AY 26 :2¡¡Í13 Dear Mrs.' Heffren: Thank you foryour letter of April 23, ,2003 in support ofaresolutiolÍ by I-Ialdimand County about nutrient management policy relating to the treatment of septic sewage (o!, . septage). ," . ' , , , , ' (:l}ITeIltMinistryof the Environment (MOE) pQ1icy initiaJives rdating tq septage fall under the Stage 2 nutrient management regulatory initiative. To 1}ddiess groundwatercontammation and nutrientmanagemel1t issues, OUr government pass,edt, he ,Nutrie,nt Ma, n,age, men,t Act, 2002. ,Th, "is, I, e,gislatio,n is a' k, e,y <;omp, oneut of Ol1tario'sclean water strategy as. it, will lead to stronger standards for all nutrient materials that are. land-applied to fann ·tields. ' ' We ,are currently in stage 2 of developing. regulations uIlder the Act. ,Thedraft Stage 2 regulatioIls, contain enhanced standards for the laIldappljfatiqIl of all nutrients, including manure and municipal biQsolids. Detailed infonnanonon the Act and draftregulati0l1 can þe fOund onthe Ministry of Agriculture al1d Food web site at www.gov.on.calOMAFRA , , As part ofits \york on the Stàge2 regulatoryjlÍitiative; the MOEþreparedaPr?po$ed $tr:,qt,egy. fl. O. r th, e Five, -, Yo, ear" Ph, a', seD, utofthe La"n.. d. A, P, 'Pl.,I,·c,a,tionD,if Ui,',l'ltreated SeP.,t,age. .,.,This strategywas.postedontheE~1Vironmental Registryon December 2, 20Q2 for jiM-day. ' public cOmment period. The proposed strategy incl, ude, s: . - . - . ... .. . An iìnm,' ,edi,ate ban on, th, elån, d apP,I,ic,ation of portable, t,o, iletwa" s1e; A five-year phase outofthe issuing ofCertiticates of Approval fot larid application sites for untreated septage; aIld . 1 ~ ...2 $ Q76,G(03IQ1) 100% Racyc!ecfChlorine Free. Made in canada Mrs. Sandra Hefften Page 2. . A requirement that municipalities prepare a Municipal Septage Strategy detailing the amount of septage generated within their jurisdiction and how it will be managed. Staff at the MOE are currently reviewing the comments received on the proposed strategy, and will take them into consideration when developing draft regulations. A draft regulation under the Environmental Protection Act, to implement the first part of the strategy - a ban on the land application of untreated portable toilet waste, effective July 31,2003 - was posted on the Environmental Registry on April 25, 2003, for a 30-day public-comment period. Once drafted, regulations to implement the other elements of the strategy will also be posted on the Environmental Registry for further public comment. I am aware that the proposed strategy would have an impact on some municipalities. It proposes that municipalities ensure that all untreated septage generated within their area is managed. It would not require that municipalities treat septage at their Sewage Treatment Plants. Municipalities would be encouraged to work together, and with the private sector, to detennine the most appropriate method of treating septage in their reglOn. Of course, the Government of Ontario is committed to working with all stakeholders to identify the implications of the proposed strategy and to identify ways to miiliniiie the ¢òsts of compliance. MOE staff are currently consulting with a variety of stakeholders, including municipalities (through the Association of Municipalities of Ontario), septage haulers and companies interested in septage treatment, to identify low-cost methods of treating septage and to detennine the best approach for implementing the phase out of the land application of septage. Thank you, again, for bringing your support for this resolution to my attention. Yours sincerely, Chris Stockwell Minister of the Environment c: Mr. Steve Peters, MPP Elgin-Middlesex-London 15 MAY SO 2003 ST. THOMAS GUN CLUB ING;""'''''''''''''''Ec· ¡",J_/i';;->';-';;-~:Ò :¡;;"1]0-;; i ::/ t: ST.THOMAS, GUN CLUB rille. P.O. BOX 22061 RF'.O. ElMWOOO ST.THOMAS. ONT, NSR6A1 Nay 26, 2003 Ns. Linda Veger Director of Financial Services County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive ST. THONAS, ontario N5R 5Vl \ Dear Linda On behalf of the st. thomas Gun Club and our President Pam Numa, I would like to thank the County of Elgin for their generous grant of $5000 which will be a big help in hosting the Canadian Trap Shooting Championships to be held at our club this June. This is a prestigious shoot and our Club will do it's best to ensure a favourable impression of Elgin/St. Thomas will be felt by all who participate. Again, our sincerest thanks for your support ~f this shoot. Yours truly I~~/~ Ron Langley 7 Secretary The St. Thomas Gun Club 19 MaY.30. 2003 1 :56PM Nd666¡ PI/I ~.' "t· ~ News Release Cømmuniqu.é _ (~) Ontario Ministry of EntarprlSla, Opportunity MÎnistêre de ·EntroprlSê. des Débouohés alld Innovation et de I'lnnov~(Qn For immediate release May 22, 2003 EVES GOVERNMENT TO PROVIDE AFFORDABLE IDGH-8PEED INTERNET TO ELGIN COUNTY ST_ THOMAS - The Ernie Eves government invested $900,000 to develop.a comprehensive telecommunícation ín:frastructure to support Elgin County's web portal and provide broadband access for the townships, libraries, school and colleges, business and economic groups, with St. Thomas-based Elginconnects.ca, Enterprise, Opportunity and Innovation MinÎster Jim Flaherty announced today. The funding is part of Conn'X't Ontano: Broadband Regional Access (COBRA), a $55 million program that brings affordable, high-speed telecommunications to northern and rural comm1.IDÌties by providing t.he necessary broadband ín:frastructure "Our goal is to ensure that all communities across Ontario can easily access affordable high-speed Internet services," said Flaherty. "This investment in $1. T'JJ.omas' Eli..ucoJJJJ.ects_ca is an important step in accomplishing that vision. COBRA will help foster innovation through pub he-private partnerships, which will te:;ult in new local economic opportunities for Elgin County and the , surrounding region." Lead by the Elgin Comm1.IDÌty Future Development Corporation, Elginconnects.ca' s partners include the City of SI. Thomas, County of Elgin, Industry Canada, Hurt1.an Resources Development Canada, Kettle Creek Conservation Aut.hority, Economic Development Corporation, Fanshawe College, Employment Service Elgin and Catfish Creek Conservation Authority. The total investment with partner funding is expected to reach $1.8 million. "The Province of Ontario's COBRA program will allow Elgin County to provide unifonn and ubiquitous access to broadband service in Elgin," said Donna Lunn, Commtmity Development Officer of Elgin Community Futures Development Corporation. "The provision of high speed service to public and private busin"sses, m1.IDÌGÌpal governments and residents will allow Elgin to participate in the knowledge-based economy. Through the coordination and partnerships fostered by this initiative, Elgin will be enabled to creat" the opportunity for tremendous economic development in both the local and global economies." COBRA supports t.he Ontario Government's Smart Growth agenda by promoting vibrant communities and stimulating local economies. 20 05/30/2003 11:06 1-519-631-2307 ELGIN MANOR PAGE 05 Mln!1tIy of H..JIII Sid LOn¡-Tel'll1 Care IIIlnlsüre dela Santi II! des Scinø d.longuedur.. ® Ontario Commu'*Y Hultll DivisIon DiVision de... san1é """\')Un.ula~. I.ong-Tenn Care I'.eciSties e,.aneh Oi~R :SnttaÞltssemcnts da ocln..s. de loI1;u:. ClLl". 80 Gr..,..nor SInIe! eo, rUB Grosvenor ~1h Floor, Hepbum Block èlifice HBpbum, S& é!a~ QIeeJ\'s P8If< Queen's Part Toronto ON MfA IR) Toronl,o ON M7A 1~ Tcfephone: (416) 327-7386 T6Iép¡.on.: (418) 3~7-T.!8!J FQmUe: (418) 3æ-1218 TéIØoopieur: (416) 328-1218 May 29, 2003 Dear Resident: I am writing to advise you of the annual adjustment to the accommodation rates at your long-term care facility. ~Ye Julv 1. 2003, the resident co-payment rates wìll be Increased by $1.16 per day for basic, semi-private and private accommodation. Thla year's adjustment is based On the annual increase that seniors receive to the Old Age Security, Guaranteed Income Supplement and Guaranteèd Annuallnoome SUpport. This adjustment reflects a decrease from the amount that was CommuniCðted In last year's notlce_ long.term care facilities are required to provide at least 30 days written notice of a proposed increase in accommodation rates and the amount of the proposed Increase. This letter serves as your notification of the new rates effective July 1, 2003. Howe~ the ~usted rat:s :~ ~nlY be ~jed to YOU once the 30 ~YS wri n notl Dartod h s e ì ad. The revised maximum rates effective July 1, 2003 are as follows: ¡YDe of Acçommodatlon Long-5tay: ~ .M.2.IWJ!r Ba&.ic $48.69 $1.480.99 $56.69 $1.724.32 $66.69 $2,028.49 $31.67 NlA Sami.Prlvate (basic rate of $48.69 plus $8.00) Private (basIc rate of $48.69 plus $18.00) Short-Stay Note: Th..-e is no preferred accommodation surcharge for shortwStay residents. 11N-DS(CIW»· '8(1._, 2 J 05/30/2003 11:06 1-519-631-2307 ELGIN MANOR PAGE 06 -2- If you are a long-stay resident In basic accommodation, you may be eligible for a rate reduction. The Administrator of your facility will provide a rate reduction application form to you to complete. If you are currently paying a reduced rate for basic accommodation, you must complete a new application to maintain your status after June 30, 2003. In order to maintain your rate reduction when the new fees take effect July 1, 2003, a rate reduction application must be completed and submitted to the Administrator of Your facility not later than July 31, 2003. Facility staffwlll be pleased to assist you in this process. Pe88$ note that the reduced rate application must indude a copy of your 2002 Notice of Assessment from Revenue Canada. You must submit a 2002 Income Tax Return to Revenue Canada in order to obtaIn a 2002 Notice of Assessment. You may åpply for a rate reduction any time during the year by submitting an application together with a 2002 Notice of Assessment. The rate . reduction would take effect on the first day of the month in which your application was submrtted. Once your applIcation is assessed, you will be notified of your eligibility for B roduced basic accommodation rate. The minimum monthJy rate is 5963.16 ($31.67 daily), even if the reduced rate calculation on the applicatIon results in a lower amount. If you have any questions about the new rates or how to apply for a rate reduction, please discuss them with the Administrator of your facility, or call your local Ministry regional office. Y oure sincerely. Tim Burns Director (A), Long-Term Care Facilíties ?2 o u1Iongas A Duke Energy Company July 9, 2002 VIA COURIER TO: ALL Clerks of Municipalities Union Gas has filed an application with the Ontario Energy Board for an order or orders approving or fixing just and reasonable rates and other charges for the sale, distribution, transmission and storage of gas as of January 1,2004 and January 1,2005. Enclosed is a copy of the application, as well as a copy of the Notice of Application issued by the Ontario Energy Board on May 22, 2003 under Docket No. RP-2003-0063. Yours truly, "~~L Marcel Reghelini Director, Regulatory Affairs Ene!. 23 P.O. Box 2001, 50 Keil Drive North, Chatham, ON N7M 5Ml tel. 519 352 3100 Union Gas Limited OntMO Energy Boa-d Conm ission de l'Ênergle de l'Ontario 1IÆ "'1-" Ontario RP-2003-0063 EB-2003-0087 EB-2003-0097 EB-2003-0098 UNION GAS LIMITED 3 RATES FOR 2004 NOTICE OF APPLICATION Union Gas Limited ("Union") has filed an application dated May 2, 2003, (the "Application') with the Ontario Energy Board (the "Board") under section 36 of the Ontario Energy Board ACE, 5.0. 1998, c. I 5, Schedule B. The Board has assigned file number RP-2003-0063 to the Application. All customers of Union will be affected by the Board's decision regarding the Application. , Particulars of the Application 5 Union has applied for an order or orders approving or fixing just and reasonable rates and other charges for the sale, distribution, transmission, and storage of gas effective January 1,2004. Phase I of the Application will address the details ofUnion's revenue deficiency, including details of rate base, revenue. cost of service, cost of capital and rate ofretum on common equity. Evidence in support of Phase I of the Application will be filed on or before May 23, 2003. The Board has assigned RP-2003-0063/EB-2003-0087 to this portion of the proceeding. 6 Phase II of the Application will address the details of cost allocation. rate design and specific proposals for 2004 rates for each of Union's rates classes. Union will file evidence in support of Phase II on or before June 20, 2003. The Board has assigned RP-2003-0063/EB-2003-0097 to this portion of the proceeding. Union is also requesting an order or orders providing for regular adjustments to the 2004 distribution rates established as a result of this Application, in accordance with a performance-based rate setting mechanism ("PBR"), and for any other necessary approvals to implement such a mechanism. The PBR mechanism and resulting rates and other charges would be effective January I, 2005 for a term of five years. Evidence related to Phase III or the PBR plan will be filed in August. The Board has assigned RP-2003-0063/EB-2003-0098 to this portion of the proceeding. 8 Under current rates, Union projects a revenue deficiency for its delivery-related services of approximately $98 million in 2004. This deficiency reflects a proposed return on common equity of 11.625% which is consistent with Union's proposal in the RP-2002-0158/EB-2002-0484 proceeding (an application to review the Board's guidelines for setting ROE) which is currently before the Board. The gas cost sufficiency includes both commodity and transportation impacts. The forecast commodity cost of gas may change during the course of the hearing of this Application. 9 10 The level and pattern of consumption of each customer will detennine the change in an individual customer's bill if the proposed new rates are approved. For example, typical residential consumers in Northern and Eastern Ontario consuming 2,900 cubic metres of gas per year, would see an annualized estimated increase in their delivery-related charges of$34.86 or 3.39%. Typical residents in Southern Ontario consuming 2,900 cubic metres of gas per year would see an estimated increase in their delivery-related charges of $23.08 or 2.21 %. These estimates are for delivery- related services only; the utility may also propose adjustments to its gas commodity costs approximately every three months. Gas cost deferral account balances are usually reviewed every three months, while non-gas cost deferral account balances would be dealt with as part of this Application. 11 Union is also requesting approval under Section 2.0 of the Undertakings to continue to provide Union's Agency Billing and Collection service to retail energy marketers and to continue the sale of gas molecules to consumers. 12 In order to expedite the proceeding, the Board may deal with some of these issues separately as different phases of a proceeding. 13 How to See the Applicant's Prefiled Evidence " Copies of the Application and supporting written evidence (once filed) will be available for public inspection at the Board's offices, and at Union's head office at the addresses indìcated below. 15 How to Participate 16 If you wish to participate in any or all portions of this proceeding you must make a written submission to the Board Secretary within 14 calendar days of the service or publication of this Notice. setting out your interest and how you plan to participate. Information on how to participate may be obtained by calling the Board's Customer Service Centre toll-free 1-877-632-2727, or by email atBoardsec(a!oeb.gov.on.ca. 17 IMPORTANT IF YOU DO NOT INDICATE TO THE BOARD SECRETARY THAT YOU WISH TO PARTICIPATE IN ANY OF THE ABOVE NOTED PROCESSES, THE BOARD MAY PROCEED IN YOUR ABSENCE AND YOU WILL NOT BE ENTITLED TO ANY FURTHER NOTICE OF THE PROCEEDING. 18 19 Ce document est disponib1e en francais. ADDRESSES All documents related to these matters should be directed to the following addresses: 21 Ontario Energy Board P.O. Box2319 2300 Y onge Street Toronto, Ontario M4P 1E4 Attn:PauIB.Pudge Board Secretary Tei: 1-888-632-6273 (Toll free) Fax: 416-440-7656 22 Union Gas Limited 23 50 Keil Drive North Chatham, Ontario N7M 5M I Attn: Marcel Reghelini Director, Regulatory Affairs Tel: 519-436-4515 Fax: 519-436-4641 Emai!: mreghelini@uniongas.com 2< Counsel for Union 25 T orys LLP Suite 3000, Maritime Life Tower Toronto-Dominion Centre Toronto, Ontario M5K IN2 Attn:Michael A. Penny Tel: 416-865-7526 Fax: 416-865-7380 Emiil: mpenny@torys.com 26 DATED at Toronto, May 22, 2003. ONTARIO ENERGY BOARD 2i æ¿~r Paul B. Pudge Board Secretary RP-2003-0063 EB-2003-0087 ONTARIO ENERGY BOARD IN THE MATTER OF the Ontario Energy Board Act, 1998, S.O. 1998, c.1S (Schedule. B); AND IN THE MATTER OF an Application by Union Gas Limited for an order or orders approving or fixing just and reasonable rates and other charges for the sale, distribution and transmission and storage of gas as of January 1,2004 and January 1, 2005; APPLICATION 1. Union Gas Limited ("Union") is a regulated public utility incorporated under the laws of the province of Ontario, with its head office in the Municipality of Chatham-Kent. 2. Union conducts an integrated natural gas utility business that combines the operations of selling, distributing, transmitting and storing of gas within the meaning of the Ontario Energy Board Act, 1998 (the "Act"). 3. Union hereby applies to the Ontario Energy Board ("OEB"), pursuant to section 36 of the Act for an order or orders approving or fixing just and reasonable rates and other charges for the sale, distribution, storage and transmission of gas by the corporation effective January 1, 2004. The rates and other charges sought (the "Cost Of Service Rates") will - Page2 - be based on projected results for a test year commencing January 1 and ending December 31,2004 (the "2004 fiscal year"). 4. Union is also requesting an order or orders, pursuant to section 36 of the Act, providing for adjustments to the Cost Of Service Rates established as a result of this application, in accordance with a perfonnance-based rate ("PBR") setting mechanism, and for any other necessary approvals to implement such a mechanism. The PBR mechanism would be effective January 1,2005 and thereafter. 5. Union also applies for an order fixing reference prices in determining amounts to be recorded in gas cost deferral accounts, for an order necessary to reflect such new reference prices in Union's rates and other charges, and for an order providing for the disposition of balances recorded in these variation accounts, and certain other deferral accounts authorized by the OEB. 6. Union also applies for approval under Section 2.0 of certain Undertakings given by Union to the Lieutenant Governor in Council of Ontario, to continue to provide Union's Agency Billing and Collection service to retail energy marketers and to continue to sell gas to consumers. 7. Union requests that the OEB issue an Order to enable the Cost Of Service Rates sought to become effective January 1,2004, notwithstanding that the OEB's Decision With Reasons authorizing Cost Of Service Rates may not be delivered until after that date. - Page 3 - Union also requests that the OEB issue an Order to enable the PBR rates sought to become effective January 1,2005, notwithstanding that the OEB's Decision With Reasons authorizing PBR rates may not be delivered until after that date. 8. Union also applies to the OEB for such interim order or orders approving interim rates or other charges and accounting orders as may from time to time appear appropriate or necessary . 9. Union further applies to the OEB for all necessary orders and directions to provide for pre-hearing and hearing procedures and conferences, including notices of application and technical and other conferences. roo This application will be supported by written and oral evidence. The written evidence will be pre-filed and will be amended from time to time as required by the OEB, or as circumstances may require. II. The persons affected by this application are the customers resident or located in the municipalities, police villages and Indian reserves served by Union, together with those to whom Union sells gas, or on whose behalf Union transmits or stores gas. It is impractical to set out in this application the names and addresses of such persons because they are too numerous. - Page4 - 12. The address of service for Union is: Union Gas Limited P.O. Box 2001 50 Keil Drive North Chatham, Ontario N7M 5Ml Attention: Telephone: Fax: E-Mail: - and - Marcel Reghelini Director, Regulatory Affairs (519) 436-4515 (519) 436-4641 mreghelini@uniongas.com T orys Suite 3000, Maritime Life Tower P.O. Box 270 Toronto-Dominion Centre Toronto, Ontario M5K lN2 Attention: Telephone: Fax: E-Mail: DATED: May 2, 2003. Michael A. Penny (416) 865-7526 (416) 865-7380 mpenny@torys.com UNION GAS LIMITED By its Solicitors Torys Suite 3000, Maritime Life Tower P.O. Box 270 Toronto-Dominion Centre Toronto, Ontario M5K lN2 Attention: Telephone: Fax: Michael A. Penny (416) 865-7526 (416) 865-7380 JµJ~ Ministry of Citizenship Minister g'bfloor 400 \jnivl3rsity Avenue Toronto ON M7 A 2R9 Tel.: (416) 325-6200 Fax: (416) 325-6195 Mlnlstere des Affalres clviques Ministre 6& étage 400, avenue University Toronto ON M7 A 2R9 Tél.: (416) 325-6200 Téléc. : (416) 325-6195 liÆ ~ ,.Ontario_. May 2003 ¡MAV, :tJ32003 Dear Friends: Each year, the GovernmeJÍt of Ontario is proud to celebrate the accomplishm.ents and contributions seniors make to Ontario's way of life. This year, the Senior Achievement Awards wìll once again: highlight the significant vol1.ì11tary or professional achievements made by individUals after they have reached the age of 65. The province wìll recognize 20 individUals at a ceremony to be held this fall. Past recipients include: Clifford Chatterton, natiòrial spokesperson fòr the War Amps, who is largely responsible for the growth of the Key Tag Service launched in 1946 to provide employment for war amputees; Reg Paterson, coach òf a teamofblind curlers that reached the Ontario Blind Curling Association Championship in 2001; and Minnie Pennell, a womaÌ1 whò spearheaded the transfol1Ilåtiori of a five-acre piece of waste land into a beautiful arboretum. I encourage you to participate in the 2003 Senior Achievement Award Program by nominating a deserving senior. As Minister of Citizenship and Minister Responsible for Seniors, it will be wìth great pride that I join the Honourable James Bartleman, Lieutenant Governor, in officially recognizing the award recipients at a special ceremony at Queen's Park. The deadline for receiving the enclosed nominátion form is July 4, 2003. If you requìre further infòrinatÎon, please contact the Ontario Honours and Awards office of the Ministry of Citizenship at (416) 314-7526. Thank you for taking the time to nominate a deserving senior in your community for a Senior Achievement Award. Sincerely, ~t;II:" - '- Carl DeFaria Minister 24 ~.. ~~...._:....... "- :..:..:......~~1.~_--......,.......;....J..::;_,.....:..':'O>..;.."......._...". _ _~ ..k~........:.,..:.·~;~...;...:_~~;;...i~ .~¡ 0.t.,:·-; .' - .. -~<~ Attorney General Minister Responsible for Native Affairs The Hon. Norman W. Sterling 'uy 0'·'~",,, _!t,!,>,:_, .¡;;, zJiJ.J iJU ~qp~ Ontario Procureur général ministre délégue aux Affaires autochtones L'hon. Norman W. Sterling ,_c;",_".-;. ~-- ,_.' - .- Ministry of the Attorney Genera! 11th Floor 720 Bay Street Toronto ON M5G 2K 1 Telephone: (416) 326-4000 Facsimile: (416) 326-4016 Ministére du Procureur general 11petage 720. rue Bay Toronto ON M5G 2K1 Telephone: (416) 326-4000 Télécopieur: (416) 326-4016 ,.....,~ ~ ~';;'. ': M ¡;;;g _ .. ;;.- ""'.' ...-~. \1 u.;,.. .:\I'R 1 0 2003 --------------- ,.¿. APR 0 , 2003 Our Reference #: M02-08562 ':~- ~, . .-"'''=': . ~J~ Mr. Steve Peters, MPP Elgin-Middlesex - London 542 Talbot Street St. Thomas, ON N5P 1C4 :..~?~~~_: ;C1;~~~~r ~~::-~t:~~~c. ;:~~.~. '--. :~o~_~·~~~.~. ,-' -'~"".r .':". '.'". ·;~~_l~:~;.. Dear Mr. Peters: ~_.;,~:,;:- .'-·.n,... .,~ .~-~' .' -.......-..:~,. Thank you for your letter, which was forwarded to the former Attorney General of Ontario, the _~ ~_:~?:: Honourable David Young by the Honourable Tim Hudak, Minister of Consumer and Business Services, c~,: regarding the city of London's distribution of its share of slot revenue earned :fÏ'om Western Fair Racetrack Slots. As you know, municipalities wrnch host racetrack slot facilities receive 5 per cent of the gross revenue the first 450 slot machines and 2 per cent on any additional machines above that number. This arrangement helps ensure that host municipalities earn the revenue necessary to offset the cost and improved in:fÏ'astructure expenditures as well as on-going municipal costs, such as emergency services, e.g_ fire and ambulance, etc. required as a result of the new racetrack and slot facilities. . ~<~ . ~.~ I recognize that some surrounding towns and municipalities might offer a supporting case for receiving a' -~;'~: portion of the slot revenue even though they do not have their own slot-racetrack facility. For this :.: :{t;:,,;~_ feason, any upper tier or surrounding municipa!ity wrnch feels !t .sho~ld also receive a portion of the ·'~l*. revenue, may make mdlvldual arrangements wIth the host mUnIcIpalIty. :Ù,h. -~:_-~.t;£' -~-~<~ ;~~t;.~: the province has committed $100 million annually :fÏ'om gaming revenues to charities across Ontario. through the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). In fact, in fiscal 2001-2002, the OTF distributed more than $4.7 million dollars to charities in the Thames Valley catchment area alone, of which Elgin County and St. Thomas are a part. ~:''''.. ,.".'-9<". :;".- -~t;i~;- ~ ~:t ~1~~ ...2/ 29 r~~~:':'o.uu'~~'~~~1',>s:..~w..~'Ç~m~ü'..I'lt.w.~~~.~"ò,M~~~~}~~~~~0!t~';~'~~y'~~(~\~;t;~'?0'_ -;:'~\K-0'·'r'T.'·~-:=.;,~~:·~~:;-;~-·-;,~;;:_:,:,:,:,o~:;r~:.,~:~3;0·~~~·~\.;~~- . . W ~,""''&.-V...,. :fj>~..< . 7" ,"':'"''-Õ'~''' ':fr'_',/~,'\'O' -~-;'-'- c~·",- j::: --,,;.:-~ -,-.::- ->-'., C··"'-.:-_·~" . '/:.,':, -,', --- .. .'.. -2- .' .....,,~ -A"','-<- ... Thank you again for your letter. If you require further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me. I look forward to assisting you in your capacity as MPP for Elgin-Middlesex-London with your Ministry of the Attorney General inquiries. :,;;-:.: .SWœrelY, ß . No~]mg 'i Attorney General Minister Responsible for Native Affairs "'é:-:."~ - c: The Honourable Tim Hudak, Minister of Consumer and Business Services - _~~~l·ic " . ...,..-.....'- _........'- -~ j;:~~. "'-~ . . .c....":.. ~-: ~;:, ~..._.. ..i! :.,:,,:,'- ;_....:-": -."~..- 30 ~;,;~,,'::..;··:····;_·c}.··. .. :!o-~~(:~~~~r...~ëS'~{~Y(~~N:t~~~"f~N;..~~~~'~~~,F2;'::7~f;:::'"-~;,..?~~_':c-;"':·:.~~-=:· --,', ~"', ~~..:l7""""~::;~ç!:-::::S;¡::;~1-?'Ç~-:::7{·~.;j.-~~ MAY-27-03 rUE 03:32 PM 260 FAX NO, 416 871 6181 p, 02/03 "'\ ~"~;... ," ;"/ ",,-:1;1 .¿;~t", ,'i, 'N.i",.,,;"'f ,: \ ~;' 't. ¡: :~. ,-.~y~~, ~ . .:. ,,;'''', I, .,.,'i 1-¡:,j" /.'~"'!.\~' '~ æ.;l~ ~ . ';':' .: ,',i,,~ ~. ':¡ \~ l ~'~\~ ~' . ~7~1 \~ ,: .~~~,:,.,.'..;~,(,;" Wj4 '....,{ Iii2J .J:4., A')so(L~¡¡f)H nr MfiHidp.idm~s of Onf.nr'IJ OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT May 26, 20Q3 The I-!onour;:¡ble Nonn Sterling AlIorrtfJY Gener<~1 & Minister Responsible for Native Affairs 11 th Floor, no Bay Street Toronto, ON M5G 183 DOM Minister: Re: POA Streamlining Phase On June 28, 2002 your prcdocessor, the Hon. David Young, wrote our Association about the pendinn promised consultation on the streamlining of tho Provincial Offences Act (POA). Ministm Young noted in the letter "the POA Project is currently in the transition phase, which will be complete in August. The streamlining phase will then follow." Minister It h;~s now been almost a year since the letter, and our members are still awaiting the strÐamlinin¡¡ consull'alion. Municipalities hava managed POA court services for several years now, and have many innovative suggestions regarding how the Act and the process can be improvod. Our members would like the opportunity to present them. Th,:ro arc sevaral key mailers, which municipalities feel should be reviewed and discussed durinfJ tho stroÐmlining phase, including: ~ Administrotive Moneta.ry Penalties; " The colleclion of unpaid fines (including those from non-Ontario resident drivers), which is in the order of hundreds of millions of dollars; " The designation of municipal law enforcement officers and other key municipal staff as POA officers for the purpose of key pieces of Provincial legislation; " The ineflicient practice of utilizing Justices of the Peace for non-discretionary issues such as the handling of Fail to Respond dockets; " Foes charged to municipalities with regard to accessing Ministry of Transportation records and for filing/enforcement fees to Small Claims and Superior Courts of Justice; " The collection of dedicated fines (i.e., fines and related revenue required by law to be wf\1itted to the :>rovincC!); ~ The appointment of ,Justices of tho Peace; and " C()rnputer/technology issues. 3 1 - .-.--- .__......J~. 393 Univnrsily Ave., Suite 1701 Toronto, ON M5G 1 f6 b;¡ (410) 971·9356 . toll freo: 1-877·426-6527 . f,lX: (416) 971·6191 . email: amo@amo.municom.com MAY-27-03 rUE 03:33 PM 260 FAX N~ 416 971 6191 p, 03/03 Th/) H0t10Ul'<"lþi) Norn\ Sterling A('rn"y Gom,rDJI :1nd Mini:\ti)( nc::.ponsibl!! for Natìvð Affairs May 26, 2003 Page 2 .... .~ ,~"'~- ~-...~,...------.- '---'- Our members would like an update on the status of the PDA streamlining phase as soon as pos$ib/è, in addition, we request that the above concerns, and other issues that municipalities idenl.ify Ihrou¡¡hout the process be addressed during the consultation. I look 10lW81d to your reply. YOllrG ~incE)f()ly, ~~\-4f 'Ken Boshcoff Prc-,i(/ont Cc: Pmll Dray, Prosecutors' Association of Ontario Drç¡d COHtl$, Municipal Court Managers' Association [3mry Randell, Director, Court Services, City ofToronto Jolm Boch-I-Iansen, Executive Director, MFDA Andy I{ooprnans, Executìve Director, AMCTD ,Joo Pavelka, CAD, Municipality of Chatham· Kent Jmnos D. Kutschke, Treasurer, County of Renfrew Mar!( McDonald, CAO, County of Elgin Miko Gslloway, Councillor, City of Kitchener Bill Smith, Municipal L¡)w Enforcement Officers Association ShDyno Tumor, Director of By-law Enforcement, City of Kitchener Loonard Crenm0r, Ont:trio Association of Property Standards Officers 32 MAY-27-03 rUE 03:32 PM 260 FAX NO. 416 971 6191 p, 01/03 To: PII"ÁIse see distr'ibution list below ÂN. FACSIMILE Fr'om: Ken Boshcoff President, AMO May 2'7, 2003 3 including this cover sheet. Date: Pages: Paul Dray, Prosecutors' Associ.:¡tion of Ontario Brad Cout~s, Municipal Court Managers' Association Bcwry Randell, Director, COlu;t Services, City of Toronto John Bech-Hansel'l, Executive Director, MFOA Andy Koopmans, Executive Director, AMCTO Jo~ PavlZlka, CAO, Municipality of Chatham-Kent James D. KlItschfœ, Tt'easurer, County of Renfrew Marl< McDonQld, CAO, County of Elgin Mike Galloway, C(lUncillor, City of Kitchener Bill Smith, Municipal Law Enforce.ment Officers Association 5hQYM Turner, Di..edor of By-law Enforcement, City of Kitchener Leol'1al"d CreOITlEW, Ontario Association of Property Standards Officers If you do not receive the correct number of pages, please call Brenda J-kwvf.:Y at 416 971-9856 . Office of_t~E! Dépüty Pr~rriiet ~rid:Minist~r of Education Mowat Blocl<; 2206 Floor 9_00~':lY Street __ Toronto ON MIA lL2 Telepboné: 416 ~25-2600 Facsimile:' 416 325~2608 Bureau dèlªy:ice~premiere ministre ef ministrè- de l'Édûcation - Édif,ice Mowat, ~2e _étagê 9QO, rué- Bay TorontoON M7A1,12 Télépbone _416325-2600 T éléCòþieur : 416 325-2608 ~ii - O'ntario May 28, 2003 JUN 2 2003 Mrs. SandraJ. Heffrell Deputy Clerk County of J:¡lgin 450 Sunset Diive . St. Thomas ON N5R 5Vl Dear Mrs. Heffren, _ -_ r Thank you f()r yourcoirespohdence: advìsing of the recommendation and resolutions adopteq by the Council of the Corporation of the CoùntyofElgin a!:mut the closure of rural sch90Is.. Mr. Steve peters, MPP for Elgin-Middlesex~London has also fOrwarded to me à copy of your letters. I am pleased to respond. . Under the Etlur¡atiof/Act, de.cisions regarding pupil accommodation are the responsibility of the school board, including the consolidation ofschooltacilitiesin theruralandurba,n areas Of their jurisdiction. This was trµe. underpreviolls g()vernmellts, prior to school board amalgamation, and remains uncllanged today. ' Kindly nöteìhatthe Ministtyof Educa.tion does IlOt pIa)' â role in thisprocess;however,it requires every school board . that is considering dosing a school to consult with concerned cOnnnunity members. The Mínistry alsp requires boards foprepare and make public a report that outlines t~e effects of school closure on community activities of a social, educational,culturaI, or recreational nature that take place on the schpol premises. Further,boanls are required to cleárlyoutline this process in an established school closure policy that is çonveyed to stalœholders, The closure policy must be in place when schools are being considered for dosure. Our government recently annonnced a fund9f $50 million for the deyelopmentof a Rural Education Strategy, so that schools in sparsely populated cpmmUllÌties can remain open arid viable. This strategy will look at how we can improve funding so that we can provide a.ppropriate support for small ¡;chools; It will also look at innovative wa)'s, such as effective use of the Internet, which other jurisdictions haveu¡;ed to give s):udents acéess to a high-quality educatipn. -. .- .../2 33 -2- I have appointed DUames Dpwney, fOrmer Presidefitofthe UnivêrsityofWaterloo, as Advisorforthe Rural Education Strategy. Given his background as a.n educator and . advocate f6rexçellence in education, I am confident thatDr; D()wney will provide out g()yerIlmentwithadvice on how lIest to support small schools in rural and remote communities. Thankyouagain for writing: Sincerely, c: Mr; Stéve Peters MPP, EIgili-J\1iddlesex"LoUdon 34 (' Sport Alliance of Ontario Thursday, May 29, 2003 John R. Wilson Warden The County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, ON N5R 5V1 JUN 2 2003 Dear Warden Wilson, I would like to extend an invitation to your Municipality to bid on one of Ontario's Games: the 2006 Ontario Winter Games for Youth, the 2006 Summer Games for Youth, the 2006 Ontario Senior Games- Actifest (Summer), the 2007 Ontario Senior Games- Winteriest, or the 2004 Ontario Games for the Physically Disabled (Summer). These five unique muiti-sport competitions showcase Ontario's athletes and your community, offering participants, volunteers and spectators the chance to experience the challenge and excitement of Games, and leaving behind an important legacy of community pride and personal development. Please find enclosed the Bid Guidelines for the Ontario Games Programs. There will be a bidders' meeting Wednesday, June 18 from 7:00 to 9:00 pm at the sportalliance offices, in room 1A. This meeting will provide your representatives with the opportunity to meet our staff, and, of course, you are invited to contact us any time to obtain more information. If you are planning to send a representative(s) to the meeting, piease contact Liz Maola at (416) 426-7233 by Thursday, June 12, 2003. Municipalities interested in taking part in this bid process are requested to submit a Letter of Intent by Friday, June 27, 2003 in order to allow sportalliance staff to make contact and provide whatever assistance is required. The deadline for submitting completed bid proposals is Wednesday, September 17, 2003 at 4:00 p.m. After thorough review and recommendations by the sportalliance, an announcement of the successful hosts will be made in December, 2003. Please forward Letters of Intent to: Liz Maola, Games Programs Coordinator Sport Alliance of Ontario Suite 201- 1185 Eglinton Avenue East, Toronto, Ontario M3C 3C6 Any questions regarding the bid process should be forwarded to Liz Maoia, or Jim Murray, Games Programs Leader, sportalliance at (416) 426-7021 . Thank you for your consideration of this exciting opportunity. I look forward to your participation. Sincerely, Jl David J. Johnson, Chair 35 1185 Eglinton Avenue East ;t; North York, Ontario, Canada ;t; M3C 3C6 Tel: (416) 426.7000 ;t; Fax: (416) 426-7381 .Ð E-mail: info@sao.on.ca ;t; www.sportalliance.com ~ ., ., .. ., þ Þ t ~ t ~ presented. . ~... .b.Y ..gÐ (~ sP£'~~~Jj!ay n~e SPORT'" In partnership with ® Ontario ~,JfI;'IIJ! ONTAIlJQ - --"."'",,--,,-~.,-- 66/63/63 22:18:67 EST; ASSOCIATION OF?-> JUN-03-03 rUE 05:02 PM 260 1 519 633 7661 CLERH-Elgin Co Page 662 FAX NO. 416 971 6191 p, 01 I Cf: 0 Association of . \ \ -"1 ~', Muricip~lities " ., _. t' '" '_ of Ontario -:ÄI-e rt -. 393 Universily Avoo'¡c, SUits 1701 Tcronto, ON M5G 1 E6 Td: (416) 971-9856' fux: (416)971.(3191 amall: ¿mo@:1mo.rnunir.om.com ~~1'1P1"'~ .. June 3, 2003 Alert 03/032 1'0 tft~ immediate attention of the Clerk and Council AMO wm Not Help Write Tax Referendum Legislation Issue: AMO has refused to provide assistance to the PC Party in drafting proposed property tax referendum legislation. Bankground: As communicated to AMO members in Alerts 03/029 (May 21), 03/030(May 23), and 03/031 (May 30), AMO has called for the withdrawal of the PC party platform proposal to introduce legislation that would require municipalities to hold a referendum if proposing a property tax increase. . SpokøÐpeoplø for the PC Party have indicated that they are willing to consult AMO when drafting the tax referendum legislation to ensure that it meets rnunicip1l1 needs. AMO has responded clearly and unequivocally that it is not willing to be part of any consultation on such legislation. prøsidont of AMO, Mayor Ken Boshcoff, has written Premier Eves, stating that AMO rejects the policy proposal and calling for it to be withdrawn. AMO awaits a response from tho Premier, In response to ils Alert (03/031, May 30), encouraging members to pass resolutions and contact MPPs regarding their opposition to the property tax refürendum proposal, AMO has received resolutions from over fifty municipalities, and ü)(pects to receive many more as councils meet to discuss the issue this weøk. SamplH resolutions have been posted on the AMO websìte, (www.,rjìlmlçQ.l1î.cQ.!!l). To date, two Conservative MPPs, Bill Murdoch representing Gr~~y-BrtJce-Owen Sound, and AI McDonald representing Nipissing, twve publicly voiced their opposition to their Party's tax referendum proposal. Ar;l:Îcm: AMO will continue to provide members with updates on efforts to have tho proposal withdrawn from the PC party platform. T/!Í5 informDtlon 1$ DVûííable through /IMO's subscription based MUNICOM network at roy,.w.ml)nicom.cgm. FM more Inforrn;¡t.iol1, please contact: Pat VaninJ, Executive Director, AMO at 416-971-9856 ex!. 316. 1 7 'P"VllTf 1__- 86/85/83 22:89:25 EST: ASSOCIATION OF?-) 1 519 633 1661 CLERH-Elgin Co Page 882 JUN-05-03 THU 05:02 PM 260 FAX NO, 416 971 6191 p, 01 For Your 6nforrrlation ¿It:tctt· AS$OcÎ3tion of Municipalities it of Ontario " ,,~". '-" , , .l\tJe,-ib~$.r, 9pmm U,n!çatiQn, 393 Univot'ïily AVenuB, Suit;;) 1701 Toronto, ON M5G tEG Tel: (1'15)!l71·~ð$6· fax: (~1GJ ~71-G191 em <:¡il. \J"Io@:JrnC,:l,rI'!r,¡nJe:om,co,\'\ T () the aticntJon of tile Clerk and Council. For Immediate Attention June 5, 2003 - FYI 03/011 ,/ Ontario Centre for Municipal Best Practices Releases Its First Annual Report f ,( \/ BAC¡·ŒROUND: The Ontario Centre for Municipal Best Practices was formed in 2002 as a partnorship Uf)tween the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) and the Province of Ontario. Its mandate is to continue the evolution of performance measuremcnt by identifying best practices and to prepare reports offering guidance and advice to local government service providers interested in learning about alternaUvo approaches to delivering service, The Ontario Centre for Municipal Best Practices has released its first annual report. the OGMBP 2002 Annual Report. Highlights include the approach to identifying best practices, information on the Steering Committee and working groups, data sources and nlGthodoloÐY, funding and reporting. The OCMBP Steering Committee has authorizod the pubfication of the following best practices: Roads, Winter Control and Solid W.m.1to Diversion. To obtain tl10 OCMBP 2002 Annual Report, and for more information on the Ontario Centro for Municipal Best Practices, go to the website at: www.ocmbp.ca. This infof/l1i'Jtion is available tlJfough AMO's public websi16 www.lJmo.on.GIJ and its subSGliption based MUN/COM (JI;;lwork 01 vMw.muniGom.com. 1 8 06/03/2003 14:27 Ministry of Transportation Office of the Minister Ferguson BlOCk. 3rd _Floor 77 Wellesley St. Wesl Toronto Ontario M7A IZ8 41S 327-9200 www.mto.gQv.on.ca MA~ 1 3 l003 Mrs. Sandra J. Heffren Deputy Clerk County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario NSR 5V1 Dear Mrs. Heffren: 4166981905 RAIL WAYS TO FUTURE; PAGE 03 Minislère des Tranaports Bureau du minis«ra ÉdifíCê Ferguson. Y élsge 77, rue Wellesloy Ouesl Toronlo (Ontario) M7A 1ZB 416327-9200 www.mto.ga.....on.ca ~ ~ Ontarío Mr. Steve Peters, MPP, Elgin-Middlesex-London, forwarded your letter to Mr. Snetsinger, regarding the Canada Southern Railway (CASO) segments between St. Thomas and Attercliffe, to me for response. I welcome the opportunity to respond. Please note that the CASO line was divested by the Canadian National Railway (CN) and has not carried any railway traffic since 1995. Although CN started to remove the infrastructure in September 2002, the company has indicated a willingness to negotiate the sale of the corridor. While there may not be a business case for continuing rail operations, the province is willing to consider proposals for partnerìng with private or public interests for preserving the corridor. Thank you for bringing your concerns to my attention. Yours sincerely. -? ".,......'/ ~;¿_. A'!:/ % " / ~ Klees ¡" Minister c. Steve Peters, MPP, Elgin-Middlesex- London Mr. Ross Snetsinger, Chairperson, Rail Ways to the Future FK:vc 21 WHEREAS the Progressive Conservative campaign document, "The Road Ahead", has been released and contains the proposal to extend the "Taxpayer Protection Act" to municipal property taxes; and, WHEREAS the proposal requires a referendum to be held in order to garner elector support for property tax increases; and, WHEREAS the downloading of services by the Provincial Government since 1998 has virtually guaranteed the need for greater property taxes to support former Provincial services such as housing, ambulance, and family benefits; and, WHEREAS any deterioration of economic conditions in Ontario will require property tax increases to support income re-distribution programmes funded by the property tax base including Ontario Works, Ontario Disability Support Programme, and Social Housing; and, WHEREAS municipal government is already the most accountable and accessible level of government, facing the electorate on a scheduled three year basis unlike either the Federal or Provincial levels; and, WHEREAS ''The Road Ahead" does not quantify or even estimate the costs of annual referenda in the 447 municipalities of Ontario; I NOW THEREFORE the Council of the County of Elgin respectfully requests that the Ontario Progressive Conservative Party withdraw from its recently announced campaign platform the initiative which would legislate a referendum should a municipality wish to increase property tax rates. Lu~f'rcÇ thc2. tDS+ ð* hol~'l1s Î~re~V7f /J-Z k lo~~ò -f-ezj57Y( eS+\fM~itz{ cct - fer 'j.eâí ß ~róh,Gt-hv.¿ ~ /n~J?+L-[é'~ ~~( (ús.y-- o-f- iJ¡~ r0lfÚ/)¿ &,vy ~%(JA1) - La íO:M1-- C ¡J 7/1/>'?D . L' 1''''1/ ~+?» , 05/03/2003 14:27 4155981905 RAIL WAYS TO FUTURE; PAGE 04 .Àt:t_ Association of Municipalities of Ontario OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT May 12,2003 Sent via fax The Honourable David Collenette Minister of Transport Canada Place de Ville Tower C, 29th Floor 330 Sparks Street Ottawa, ON K1A ON5 The Honourable Frank Klees Minister of Transportation 77 Wellesley Street West 3rt! Floor, Ferguson Block Toronto, ON M7A 128 Dear Ministers; As you may be aware, CN Rail has sold and is currently dismantling the Canada Southern Railway. AMO's members again have. concerns about the incremental disappearance of this essential transportation mode from Ontario's communities. This is also a serious threat to many northern and remote communities. CN's decision does not recognize the importance of railways in moving goods across Ontario and to U.S. markets. Railways are a part of Canada's strategy to reduce air pollution and traffic congestion seen on roads and highways. ' Minister, we urgè you to delay the demolition of the Canada Southern Railway until alternative arrangements can be made to integrate this important piece of infrastructure in an integrated transportation strategy. Let us take this opportunity to preserve Ontario's railway heritage and make use of our existing serviceable transportation infrastructure. Thank you for your attention to this important issue. I look forward to your reply. ~ SirrrelY, ~ Öos~~JJß Ken Boshcoff -r¡ President cc: Carolyn J. Ket!, Clerk, Town of Fort Erie Ross Snetsinger, Chair, Rail Ways to the Future Committee 22 393 University Ave., Suite 1701 Toronto, ON M5G 1E6 tel: (416) 971-9856 . toll free 1-877-426-6527 . fax: (416) 971-6191 . email; amo@amo.municom.com