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April 22, 2008 Agenda ORDERS OF THE DA Y FOR TUESDA Y. APRIL 22. 2008 - " 9:30 A.M. " PAGE # ORDER 1st Meeting Called to Order 2nd Adoption of Minutes - for the meeting of April 8, 2008 3rd Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof 4th Presenting Petitions, Presentations and Delegations RECOGNITION: 9:30 A.M. Retirement Recognition for Rose Barratt - 23 years service at Elgin Manor DELEGATIONS: 2-17 9:35 a.m. Sandra Datars Bere, Director of Ontario Works and Social Housing St. Thomas-Elgin Ontario Works: 1st Quarter Report; Overview of Updated Ontario Works Program Brochure; and Restructuring to Support the Implementation of the Ontario Child Benefit (attachments) 18-24 10:00 a.m. Dr. Baker, Elgin St. Thomas Public Health, Municipal Planning (attachment) 10: 15 a.m. Marina Surette, Library Promotions Coordinator, demonstration re: Marketing Our Libraries Through "Facebook" - report paae 30; and, Elgin County Library 'Website Tour" 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 67 13th Consideration of By-Laws 14th ADJOURNMENT 5th 25-53 6th 7th 54-57 58-66 8th LUNCH WILL BE PROVIDED NOTICE: May 13, 2008 May 27, 2008 9:00 A.M. - County Council Meeting 9:00 A.M. - County Council Meeting ST. THOMAS ST. THOMAS - ELGIN ONTARIO WORKS 423 Talbot Street St. Thomas, Ontario N5P lei TIiliCORl'()R.-I.TlO);'OFTIJEClTY OF [Report No. OWEC04-0sl REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Sandra Datars Bere, Director of Ontario Works and Social Housing st. Thomas - Elgin Ontario Works MEETING DATE: April 22, 2008 SUBJECT: First Quarter Report for January, February and March 2008 Recommendation: THAT the Report OW08-08 of the Director of SI. Thomas-Elgin Ontario Works and Social Housing for the months of January, February & March 2008 be received and filed. Income Maintenance: The Income Maintenance division of Ontario Works continues to provide support to individuals and families of the City of SI. Thomas and Elgin County. The staff of the Income Maintenance Division of Ontario Works continues to provide positive role models to those in need and assist them in becoming self-sufficient members of our community. The Income Maintenance Division encompasses a number of different programs geared to assisting vulnerable members of our community. Financial support is provided to individuals and families through our Income Support program, our Special Programs provide for individuals in domiciliary hostels as well as administering funds for those in need of our Homelessness programs. The Family Support program assists recipients in obtaining funds available to them. The Eligibility review program and the Consolidated Verification Process Program provide accountability to our municipality. During this past quarter as well as the past year the case load of the Ontario Works department has increased significantly. Our community is currently experiencing lay offs and slow downs in our manufacturing sector and therefore we have more members of our community relying on the Ontario Works department for support. The Ontario Works department has started preparation this quarter for the upcoming changes to Social Assistance. This initiative spearheaded by the Ministry of Children and Youth Services in conjunction with the Ministry of Community and Social Services and the Ministry of Finance will see significant changes mid year to social assistance rates. The introduction of the Ontario Child Benefit will help many families in receipt of social assistance and the working poor. The entire Ontario Works staff have received phase one of the training for this change. A community partners presentation was held March 19th to inform the community at large. Page 1 af 4 QWEC03-08 April 22. 2008 The staff of the Income Maintenance division of Ontario Works strives to maintain a high service level to our community while concurrently managing higher caseloads. The stabilization of staffing leveis continues to be a concern as there has been significant staff turnover in the past year. The Service Delivery Model Technoiogy utilized by the Ontario Works department and most significantly by the Income Maintenance Division requires considerable training and has a long learning curve; this combined with the legislative knowledge component makes trained staff a valuable commodity. These challenges, as always, will be met with resolve and determination in the Income Maintenance Division as we provide quality service to our community of St. Thomas - Elgin. Emplovment: The Employment Team started 2008 running and has not stopped since. Due to the increase in intakes, the wait time to see an Employment Resource Worker is approximately 4-6 weeks. We will continue to attempt to decrease this waiting period however as intakes and caseloads continue to climb there does not appear to be much relief in sight. Employment Services Elgin did a staff presentation in early March reacquainting staff with the services their agency offers in the areas of career exploration, job development, job coaching and a variety of workshops. We continue to refer clients to this community partner for employment services to enable them to have access to the full spectrum of opportunities that are available. The Income Maintenance and Employment Programs Supervisors attended the Employment Ontario Stakeholder Information Session for the Western Region held in London in March. The presentation included an overview of the vision of a Transformed Employment Ontario and allowed them to learn about several key projects that have been identified as well as some details regarding the Labour Market Agreement signed in February 2008. The Innovations Funding Program is coming to an end and it appears we are going to either meet our target or be short one participant. As of this date, we have screened over 125 participants, interviewed 74 participants and trained 14 AZ truck drivers. Child Care: Since the implementation of the Income Testing process to determine Child Care fee subsidy we have seen an increase in the number of parents who qualify. Because of this, fee subsidy spending has increased in all funding enveiopes. In order to manage our funding allocation, we have started a wait list for fee subsidy and have implemented a Management Strategy Service Priorities which is based on the five approved priorities in the 2001 Child Care Plan. The approved service priorities are as follows: 1. Children who's parents have mandatory participation in the Learning, Earning and Parenting program (LEAP) 2. Ontario Works/Ontario Disability Support Program clients who are in need of child care in order to pursue employment or education 3. Sole support parent families employed part time or full time 4. Children with diagnosed special needs 5. Two parent families where both parents are employed full time 2 We are currently serving 83 more children than last year at this time. Presently, there are 16 children and 10 families on the wait list. This number is expected to grow unless we receive additional funding from the Ministry. Child Care Assessment Workers have received training on how to manage the fee subsidy wait list using our Ontario Child Care Management System (OCCMS) as well as manual tracking and recording processes. The Best Start committee now meets regularly as part of the Elgin Advisory Committee For Young Children. The committee is working on proposal criteria for requesting Best Start funds for minor projects. The Forest Ave Project is on schedule and their opening will be on May 26,2008. Forest Ave Child Care have officially announced a name for the new childcare centre located at Five Shaw Valley Drive, and the new name is, Milestones Children's Centre. We continue to work towards our goal to get all childcare centres on the Web Based Record of Attendance. Child Care and system support staff have received training on this process. Attendance tracking will change from a paper-based record to a computer based tracking, recording and billing system for fee subsidy. Social HousinQ: Canada-Ontario Affordable HousinQ ProQram update: 1. Rental & Supportive (capital) component: Tenants moved in on February 1,2008 to the new 12-unit Affordable Housing Project on Steele Street. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at the site on January 8 with federal, provincial, and municipal dignitaries attending. The 23-unit apartment building at Scott Street is expected to be completed by June 1, 2008. A grand opening ceremony is being planned. Representatives from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing toured the two St. Thomas sites, along with City staff, on January 22. In West Lome, construction on the 16-unit seniors' apartment building is well underway. Expected occupancy date is September 1, 2008. In Dutton, construction has started on the 30-unit seniors' complex. A February 1, 2009 move-in date is anticipated. 2. Homeownership component: To date, nine of 24 Homeownership loans have been approved. Seven of the approved loans were for home purchases in the City of St. Thomas, one was in Bayham, and one was in Southwold. Home purchase prices have ranged from $93,000 to $148,500 with an average purchase price of $123,600. Under this Program, down payment assistance of $7,875 is available toward the purchase of a home priced at less than $150,000 in St. Thomas or Elgin County. Purchasers must currently be renters in St. Thomas or Elgin County and must have household incomes of less than $55,900. Priority is given to first-time homebuyers, single parents, new immigrants, and recent graduates. Subsidized housinQ waitinQ list statistics Waiting list numbers are increasing, not unexpectedly given recent plant closing announcements and layoffs in the area. In the first quarter of 2008, the average number of households on the Central Wait List was 205, compared to an average of 171 during the same quarter last year. Applicants usually have to wait a year or more for i-bedroom units, two years or more for 2- bedroom units, and six months to one year for 3-bedroom and larger units. Most applicants (47%) are waiting for bachelor or i-bedroom units. About 36% of applicants are on the 2- bedroom waiting lists. Waiting lists for the larger units with 3 bedrooms or more have fluctuated from almost no applicants last summer to about 17% of all applicants currently. 3 eclfully submitted: ,o,of) 4 Corporation of City of St Thomas - Ontario Works Income Maintenance Caseioad Statistics Month Caseioad City County Annuai Caseioad Jan-05 878 639 239 Feb-05 903 649 254 Mar-05 905 657 248 895 Apr-05 883 652 231 May-05 837 629 208 Jun-05 823 638 185 872 Jul-05 810 637 173 Aug-05 816 626 190 Sep-05 805 618 187 851 Oct-05 800 598 202 Nov-05 814 591 223 Dec-05 853 571 282 844 Jan-06 885 611 274 Feb-06 881 606 275 Mar-06 893 617 276 886 Apr-06 857 583 274 May-06 841 572 269 Jun-06 800 536 264 860 Jul-06 788 533 255 Aug-06 788 533 255 Sep-06 787 537 250 836 Oct-06 749 514 235 Nov-06 759 523 236 Dec-06 795 552 243 819 Jan-07 829 583 246 Feb-07 863 599 264 Mar-07 892 623 269 861 Apr-07 870 608 262 May-07 874 605 269 Jun-07 848 590 258 863 Jul-07 841 577 264 Aug-07 868 591 277 Sep-07 882 610 272 863 Oct-07 882 610 272 Nov-07 925 644 281 Dec-07 939 655 284 876 Jan-08 1034 725 309 Feb-08 1089 772 317 Mar-08 1108 779 329 Apr-08 May-08 Jun-08 Jul-08 Aug-08 Sep-08 Oct-08 Nov-08 Dec-08 269 12 CY Avg # Months Current YTD QTR 876 819 844 872 930 1052 YTD Avg 2007 YTD Avg 2006 YTD A vg 2005 YTD A vg 2004 YTDA vg 2003 YTD A vg 2002 ~ c ~ ~ 0 0 0 "0 ~. C E! C- ~OO Iii 00 ~ 0 ~ ~OO '" Zo ~ '" 0 '" 000 0 00 0 '" (f) "'-00 C- 1];0 j't: 6>00 ~ ;(0 (!) '" 0 -'-00 0 ~o t:! ~ ~ 0 ~ COO ~o , 0 >'00 :110 (() aco 0 <(0 0 N 0 0 r-- rog5 0 '" 0 N "0 .<100 c ~O e C- o "tl COO " roo ,s 0 , c 0; 0 0 ~ Or- '" " ,30 () ~ "" ~r--- ~ 0 Zo :;: 0 , 'c or- .ll 00 c 0 "'-r- 1];0 , O>r- ;(0 -'-r- ~o , cr- ~o , ~t-- ",0 ~r- ~o ~t-- ",0 .<Ir- tfO "'r- roo , 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 ~ ;:: ;" '" 00 r- OO "' ... '" N peO]Sse:] ST. THOMAS ST. THOMAS - ELGIN ONTARIO WORKS 423 Talbot Street St. Thomas, Ontario N5P lei TIm CORPORADO::'{Ol'UJR CIlYOF IReport No. OWEC03-0sl REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Sandra Datars Bere, Director of Ontario Works and Social Housing SI. Thomas - Elgin Ontario Works MEETING DATE: April 22. 2008 SUBJECT: Overview of and Actions Related to Key Messaging from the Updated Ontario Works (OW) Program Brochure INTRODUCTION: This report provides an overview of an updated brochure on the Ontario Works (OW) program released recently by the Ministry of Community and Social Services. The report also provides a preliminary introduction to strategic planning activities implemented by St. Thomas-Elgin Ontario Works to adopt key messages regarding program and service delivery outlined in the brochure. DISCUSSION I REPORT: In March 2008, the Province of Ontario unveiled an updated brochure for the "Ontario Works" (OW) program. A copy is attached for Council's review and retention. This updated brochure, which is available in offices across the province including the st. Thomas-Elgin Ontario Works Department, provides program participants and community stakeholders with a succinct overview of the goal of the program and the supports and assistance available to individuals. As the brochure indicates, the "goal of Ontario Works is to help you get into the workforce and become financially independent". This goal confirms the transition of the OW program from one solely providing income supports to one that supports participants towards meaningful and long-term employment. In the process, OW participants will move towards employment options while concurrently benefiting from increased self-esteem, independence, self-reliance and community contribution. Page 1 of 2 OWEC03-08 April 22. 2008 Impact for St. Thomas-Elain Ontario Works: Over the past several months, the st. Thomas-Elgin Ontario Works Department has worked to embody this goal in services provided. This need to strengthen our program focus to one that specifically supports employment options and outcomes for participants has resulted in a thorough review of our participant service path and the activities that we develop and implement to assist participants. As part of a strategic planning and review process implemented recently, the Department continues to review the service and supports offered in order to ensure a greater focus on employment and employment related outcomes. We have also been working with community partners, funding ministries and other key stakeholders to support this transition for a collaborative approach to services for participants. The OW Department will be moving forward over the next several months to implement activities and services that support this transitioned vision. Staff will provide additional information over the next period of time. Staff is available to provide any clarity on this report as required. Respectfully submitted: Director, st. Thomas Elgin Ontario Works 2 For more information, contact your local Ontario Works office. You'll find the addresses and phone numbers on our website at www.mcss.goY.on.ca. provides the help you need @ Queen's Printer for Ontario, 2008 ISBN 978-1-4249-5112-3 xxM/xxJ08 Ce document est egalement disponible en frant;ais Alternate formats available upon request How Ontario Works can help you get back on your feet Sometimes people experience hard times and need help getting back on their feet and back into work. Finding a job is not always easy, especially if you've been out of the workforce for a while. If you are a resident of Ontario in immediate financial need, you may be eligible for help from Ontario Works. Ontario Works provides two kinds of help: financial assistance, and employment assistance to people who are in temporary financial need. The amount of money you receive depends on: your housing costs the size of your family and how old they are. It's important to know that if you receive help from Ontario Works, you have to take part in opportunities that will help you find a job. Ontario Works has many ways to help you prepare for, find and keep a job, such as: workshops on looking for work, resume writing and preparing for an interview referrals to basic education, literacy training, job-specific skills training and supports to self-employment access to telephones, computers, fax machines, job banks and information on who is hiring in your community community placements to help you build skills and get on-the-job experience employment placement services to connect you directly with employers participation expenses to help you cover work costs such as childcare, transportation, grooming, work-related clothing, and tools and equipment. The goal of Ontario Works is to help you get into the workforce and become financially independent. ST. THOMAS ST. THOMAS - ELGIN ONTARIO WORKS 423 Talbot Street St. Thomas, Ontario N5P leI TIillCORI'ORAll0:X OFTIlSCl1Y Of IReport No. QWEC02-0sl REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Sandra Datars Bere, Director of Ontario Works and Social Housing st. Thomas - Elgin Ontario Works MEETING DATE: April 22, 2008 SUBJECT: Social Assistance Restructuring to Support the Implementation of the Ontario Child Benefit (OCB) INTRODUCTION: This report provides an overview of upcoming changes to Social Assistance to support the implementation of the Ontario Child Benefit (OCB). DISCUSSION / REPORT: In the 2007 provincial Budget, the government announced new investments aimed at Ontario's families, children and individuals in need including a new provincially funded, non-taxable Ontario Child Benefit (OCB). The OCB provides an income-tested financial benefit to low-income families with children under age 18, regardless of their income source. OCB Eliaibilitv: To be eligible for the OCB, an individual must be the primary caregiver for one or more children under age 18 and meet all of the following requirements: . The applicant and spouse (if applicable) must have filed an income tax return for the previous taxation year: . His or her children must be registered for the Canada Child Tax Benefit (CCTB); and . He or she must be a resident of Ontario. People without dependent children are not eligible to receive the OCB. In order to be assessed for the OCB, applicants MUST: . file their tax return every year, and . make sure their children are registered for the CCTB. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will automatically review their eligibility for the benefit once the income tax return is assessed. If eligible, the CRA will send their OCB payments every month on behalf of the province of Ontario. The OCB will be included in the same cheque/direct deposit that recipients receive for the CCTB, which includes the National Child Benefit Supplement (NCBS). OCB Proqram Implementation: The OCB is being phased-in over five years and began with a special one-time down payment of up to $250 per child in July 2007. The first full year of monthly OCB payments will start in July 2008 with payments of up to $600 per child under age 18 annually ($50/month). Over time, the amount of the benefit will grow to a maximum of: . $805 per child annually as of July 2009 ($67.08/month); . $900 per child annually as of July 201 0 ($75/month); and . $1,100 per child annually as of July 2011 ($91.67 /month). If a family's family net income, based on the previous tax year, is $20,000 or less, they will receive the maximum. The payment will be reduced by 8 cents for every dollar above $20,000. At maturity, the OCB will provide an additional $765 million annually in support for nearly 1.3 million children in more than 600,000 families. The province has indicated that the benefit will help many more families with children than those currently receiving Ontario Works, ODSP and the Ontario Child Care Supplement for Working Families (OCCS). Impact on Social Assistance: There will be the following changes, when monthly OCB payments begin in July 2008: . The NCBS will no longer be deducted from social assistance . The Basic Needs amount for children, the Back-to-School and Winter Clothing Allowances will be removed from social assistance. The OCB funding is intended to provide assistance for these items. . The Ontario Child Care Supplement (OCCS) will be restructured. Families whose OCCS monthly entitlement exceeds their monthly Ontario Child Benefit payment will continue to receive a supplementary OCCS payment. . Families on social assistance will continue to receive other supports for their children (such as shelter allowances and health benefits). They can also continue claiming some of their child care costs if they are working. . Effective August 1 for Ontario Works recipients, the NCBS will become fully exempt as income in calculating subsidy assistance. The OCB one-time down payment and the monthly OCB payments are also exempt as income. . Families may also be eligible to receive a new provincially funded Transition Child Benefit (TCB). TCB is being introduced for eligible families on social assistance with children who do not receive or are receiving less than the maximum amount of the OCB for any of their children. The TCB will only be provided for dependent children as defined in the Ontario Works and ODSP regulations. 2 Despite the number of changes, no family will be adversely affected by these changes. [t is expected, based on information presented to date, that families will actually receive s[ightly more monthly than before. [t is noted that persons on social assistance without children under 18 will not be affected by any of these changes. Information Sharlna reaardina New Proaram Information: To date, the st. Thomas-Elgin Ontario Works Department has implemented and/or planned a number of information sharing activities relating to the new OCB funding and Social Assistance Restructuring as fo[lows: . Information was included in Social Assistance cheques for March 2008. Two additional notices will be placed in cheques before August 2008. . Staff have received information and wi[1 be trained by August 2008. . A community partners information session hosted jointly with staff from the [ocal Ontario Disability Support Program Office was be held on Wednesday March 19,2008 at the St. Thomas Public Library. . The province has also implemented a significant communication strategy which has begun and will be on-going until full implementation has been achieved. The office wil[ participate in this strategy as we[1. A copy of the most recent communication fact sheets are attached. Additiona[ reports will be forthcoming as implementation draws closer. Staff is available to answer any questions or provide additional information as requested. Respectfully submitted: &d;C ~ Bere Director, St. Thomas Elgin Ontario Works 3 These changes mean: You will receive less on your social assistance payment But You will keep all of your monthly Ontario Child Benefit and full NCBS payments - they will not be deducted from your social assistance payments. Starting in July 2008, if you are eligible, the Canada Revenue Agency will include your Ontario Child Benefit with your Canada Child Tax Benefit (which includes NCBS) cheque/direct deposit. You will continue receiving your social assistance payment separately by cheque/direct deposit as you normally do. Please Note The Ontario Child Benefit is a financial support for low-income families that you could continue to receive when you leave social assistance. Preparing for the changes... 1. It is very important that you and your spouse file your income tax returns every year, and register your children for the Canada Child Tax Benefit, or you will not be eligible for the Ontario Child Benefit. You are required to pursue the Ontario Child Benefit as a financial resource. Your local office staff may ask you to show what you are doing to obtain this benefit. 2. If you have children under age 18, but are not receiving the Ontario Child Benefit, or are receiving less than the maximum amount of the Ontario Child Benefit, there is other help available to you. Talk to your local office for more information. For more information If you have questions about the changes to social assistance, please contact your local office. For information about the Ontario Child Benefit, including information about registering for the Canada Child Tax Benefit, maximum amounts of the Ontario Child Benefit and the Ontario Child Benefit on-line calculator, please call 416-325-5666 (T aronto) or toll- free 1-866-821-7770 (TTY toll-free: 1-800-387-5559), or visit on-line at www.ontariochildbenefit.ca. Ministry of Community and Social Services * Ontario Child Care Supplement for Working Families 2008 Transition Child Benefit Fact Sheet In 2007, the Ontario government introduced a new Ontario Child Benefit to help low- income families provide for their children. Starting in July 2008, monthly Ontario Child Benefit payments of up to $50/month per child ($600/year) will begin. When these payments begin, social assistance (Ontario Works and the Ontario Disability Support Program) will change for families who have children under age 18. A new Transition Child Benefit is being introduced for eligible families with children under age 18 on social assistance who do not receive or are receiving less than the maximum amount of the Ontario Child Benefit for any of their children. The amount of a family's Transition Child Benefit depends on the amount they receive for the Ontario Child Benefit and the National Child Benefit Supplement (NCBS). For information about the Ontario Child Benefit, including the Ontario Child Benefit maximum amounts and the Ontario Child Benefit on-line calculator, please call 416- 325-5666 (Toronto) or toll-free 1-866-821-7770 (TTY toll-free: 1-800-387-5559), or visit on-line at www.ontariochildbenefit.ca. How do I get the Transition Child Benefit? You do not need to apply for the Transition Child Benefit. Your eligibility will be determined by your local office based on the information you provide to calculate your social assistance amount. If you are eligible, the Transition Child Benefit will be added to your monthly social assistance payment. You must continue to report any changes to your family situation that may affect your eligibility or the amount you receive for the Ontario Child Benefit to your local office (such as, addition of a newborn or a child leaves your care). Also, to receive the Transition Child Benefit you must be trying, or have tried, to get the Ontario Child Benefit first. Your local office staff may ask you to show what you are doing to obtain this benefit. If you are waiting for your monthly Ontario Child Benefit payments to start... You will receive the Transition Child Benefit from social assistance while you wait. When your monthly Ontario Child Benefit payments start, you will receive a lump-sum Ontario Child Benefit/NCBS payment that covers the months you waited. Since you already received the Transition Child Benefit for the same period, your next social assistance payment will be reduced to avoid a duplication of benefits. This is to treat all families on social assistance fairly. Your local office staff can explain how this may affect you. Ministry of Community and Social Services 2008 Ontario Child Benefit and Changes to Social Assistance Fact Sheet In 2007, the Ontario government introduced a new non-taxable Ontario Child Benefit to help low-income families provide for their children. Starting in July 2008, monthly Ontario Child Benefit payments of up to $50/month per child ($600/year) will begin. When these payments begin, social assistance (Ontario Works and the Ontario Disability Support Program) will change for families who have children under age 18. If you do not have children under age 18, your social assistance will not be affected. These are the changes you can expect to see: . The National Child Benefit Supplement (NCBS) will no longer be deducted from your social assistance. . The portion of "Basic Needs" for your child will be removed from social assistance. . The Back-to-School Allowance and the Winter Clothing Allowance will be removed from social assistance. You will continue to receive other help for your children through social assistance (such as shelter allowances and health benefits). You can also continue to claim some of your child care costs if you are working. The monthly amounts for Temporary Care Assistance and Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities will not change. Before the Changes Child Benefits . Canada Child Tax Benefit o NCBS After the Changes Child Benefits . Canada Child Tax Benefit o NCBS .- .~.................................. -. . . . . . . :,..... . . . . . . . . . . . Basic Needs for children : +. ~ .................................... . Social Assistance . Back-to-School & Winter Clothing Allowances Ontario Child Benefit . OCCS' Social Assistance . Basic Needs for adults . Shelter Allowance . Benefits .- - - - - - - - - - - - - -I . No NCBS deduction 1 1_____________..1 . Basic Needs for adults . Shelter Allowance . Benefits I.~cc~ :'c~~~~\d;€a5-~tii?,j~:1 >1 +1;;-';~ Ministry of Community and Social Services . Ontario Child Care Supplement for Working Families 2008 "i~W E.lCUiSt.l'>IOIM$ PU8lKHEAllH Municipal Planning Goal: A mutually beneficial partnership working towards increasing the quality of life for residents and therefore improving the health of our community. ~ . 4. ~ . . . . ~.". ~ ~ "''',,;; ""'''" '" , "'"' " ,>=:.u_ " '" "',,"',.,- Why? II's Our Mandate. ~ . . " ~&~o 1 Why? It's One of the Municipal Mandates under the Planning Act. "The council of a municipality shall have regard to the proteclion of public health and safety in carrying out their responsibilities under IIle Planning Act" ~ ~ ~ '" .._"",IT"' ~ Why? It's One of the Municipalities "Official Plan" Priorities. " To ensure the health, safety, welfare, convenience and well being of the exisling and future residents of the Municipality" '" ;;, " " "";;;"" s ~~ , , " "/" "8;; ,," ,," .~~~%; Why? Public Health Mattersl , , ~: >'U""'_ " 2 Why? We All Benefit from a Healthy Society! ~"" 0 ~" '~ ' , , _ " " "'<i'",u""""" ~ ",~"""" Why? . Preventing Illness, Disease and Injury is cost effective! ~'" - _"2>> /0 d"~~"" " ;; -" ;;?!" p - "1 ;; " 7", ;:"' ~~ "' '" "''' '0 " ;; "!!{zMI!f#1f, Why? Being Proactive Reduces Liability! " " ;'<,,\!R:~ ~ ~ " ~0 3 Types of Partnerships and Assistance: . Policy Development . Bylaw Development . Research . Resources . Needs Assessment . Letters of Support ~, " :, :,./"7<.2: ~" ~::" " '" """"''''''''- " "!.",,,,,,,,,,,,, Seek public health input on draft policies before implementation, for example: . Municipal Alcohol Policies . Shade at Pools/Beaches . Accessibility to Public Washrooms . Extreme Temperature Response Seek public health input on bylaw petitions, for example: . Transportation issues . School safety and closure issues . Recreational costs and access ~" "" / x ~ ~ " -.:"..",. " 4 Request information on health implications of current topics as they arise, for example: . Fluoridation of Municipal Water 'AirQuality . Lead in Water . Environmental Health Hazards """S: '~"' ,,~'" ?:. '" \~~ Request resources to educate your residents, for example: . Brochures . Posters . Media Releases and Ads ~ Ask for assistance with data and reviews of draft plans, for example: . Population Data . Health Status Data . Recreational Plans .~ .[,~ ~Ti " ,,' , " U~ljS!l(i/ : ;; ~: " ~ ."W<~,_" I 5 Request a letter of support, for example: . Extension of Municipal Water Lines . Need for more Long Term Care beds and better access to existing ones . Funding for New or Upgraded Arena/Park Land . School closures << ~ mY x ~~~ Who are you going to call? Elgin SL Thomas Public Health -" 3' "f:t{PC & " ~,,"''': ,,~~~% );~)\tX~;i} ; x ~ ~ ~-; "' ;: 0 <<"" _!'!';""~-~:>>''''"' o -- Who are You Going to Call? Laura McLachlin, Director Health Protection Department Elgin SL Thomas Public Health 519-631-3159 ext 223 Imclachll n@elglnhealth,on,ca "~iI}\tA.} , s ~ ' " " v"~~~ 1! 6 Who are you going to call? Carolyn Kuntz, Director Health Promotion Department Elgin 51. Thomas Public Health 519-631-3159 ext 229 cku ntz@elginhealth.on.ca it "' N N ~:': ~ ~"","'" ~ N~l~~='''-''1 \"~W ~ fiG'''' ST. TtlO"'-"-" Pl1llLlCliUl.T.C 7 REPORTS OF COUNCIL AND STAFF APRIL 22. 2008 Councillor ReDorts - (ATTACHED) 26 Rural Initiatives Committee - Reinstating "Education Day" at Elgin County Council Staff ReDorts - (ATTACHED) 28 Director of Cultural Services - West Lorne Library Fire Insurance Claim 30 Manager of Cultural Services, Director of Cultural Services - Marketing Our Libraries Through "Facebook" 34 Director of Engineering Services - Ontario Government 2008 Budget - Funding for County Infrastructure 38 Director of Engineering Services - Dexter Line Environmental Assessment - Phase 2 Update 41 Director of Engineering Services - Tenth Anniversary Garden Request - Administration Building 43 Director of Financial Services - Grant Request 46 Director of Senior Services - T/L and BN - MOHL TC - Annual Funding Announcement 48 Chief Administrative Officer - Reallocation of Medquest Grant for 2008 52 Chief Administrative Officer - Health Recruitment Agreement Finalized 53 Chief Administrative Officer - Dexter Line Working Group 25 REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Jim Mcintyre, Chair Rural Initiatives Committee DATE: April 13, 2008 SUBJECT: Reinstating "Education Day" at Elgin County Council CORPORATE GOAL(S) REFERENCED: . To promote Elgin as "The Place to Live" . To be recognized as a desired employer INTRODUCTION: Prior to amalgamation in 1998, Elgin County Council held an "Education Day" whereby members of Council were permitted to bring along a student to observe the Council proceedings. Each student was seated directly behind the Council members. This was a voluntary effort and participation was at the discretion of the Warden and Council. DISCUSSION: Those students who participated in the past have continue to remark about the benefits of attending, as their involvement formed a lasting memory. In addition, the Education Day exposes students to local government and the County, both worthwhile endeavours. It is suggested that this program be reinstated in 2008, and that senior management be permitted the same opportunity to bring along a student of their choice. It is further suggested that this practice be held on the first Council meeting in November each year and that the student observer be enrolled at the high school level. CONCLUSION: Elgin County's "Education Day" provides an opportunity for students to learn about government and administration, by directly observing a Council Meeting. RECOMMENDATION: THAT Elgin County Council re-establish "Education Day" to be held once a year at the first Council Meeting in the month of November. Respectfully Submitted Approved for Submission ~ /lL-" Mcintyre, Chair ural Initiatives Committee Mark G. El Chief Administrative Officer REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Cathy Bishop Director of Cultural Services DATE: April 7, 2008 SUBJECT: West Lorne Library Fire Insurance Claim CORPORATE GOAL(S) REFERENCED: 1) To ensure fiscal responsibility and accountability 2) To provide innovative and collaborative quality service 3) To recognize and seize opportunities for improvement INTRODUCTION: As Council is aware, the West Lorne Library was destroyed by fire on Wednesday, February 8, 2006. Since this time staff has been working with SCM Adjusters Canada Ltd. and Frank Cowan Insurance on a settlement claim. This report outlines the dollars received for the fire claim and the expenditures for the new library. DISCUSSION: The West Lorne Library re-opened its doors to the public on August 13, 2007. The library space before the fire was 1,251 square feet and the new rebuilt library is 1,793 square feet as approved by Council. Staff has received $366,699.30 from the fire claim and has spent $133,528.59 for furniture, equipment, shelving, books, and any necessary upgrades. Staff was able to spend fewer dollars than received from the insurance claim for the following reasons: . The amount of shelving that was purchased was considerably less than what was originally in the West Lorne Library before the fire. This is due to thi;l new accessibility standards for shelving. Shelving that was taken out qf the West Lorne library before the fire was 84 inches in height. The m~jority of the replacement shelving is 66 inches in height. This also equ~tes to less materials needed to be replenished. . A portion of the books that were replaced came from surplus inventory at the main office. All purchases for the new West Lorne Library are complete. This leaves a positive balance of $233,170.80. Staff is suggesting that the remaining dollars from the West Lorne Library fire insurance claim be declared as capital surplus. CONCLUSION: This report informs County Council as to the status of the West Lorne Library fire insurance claim with Cowan Insurance. RECOMMENDATION: THAT the surplus funds in the amount of $233,170.80 from the West Lorne Fire insurance claim be declared surplus capital funds. Respectfully Submitted ~SUbm;'=s Mark G. 8eAaI~ Chief Administrative Officer ----... /)~ (a..- . Cathy Bis p Director of Cultural Services REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Cathy Bishop, Director of Cultural Services Marina Surette, Library Promotions Coordinator DATE: April 8, 2008 SUBJECT: Marketing our Libraries through "Facebook" CORPORATE GOAL(S) REFERENCED: To promote cultural services. To provide innovative and collaborative quality service. INTRODUCTION: With over 67 million active users, Facebook, a popular social-networking site, is the 5th most-trafficked website in the world, and the 2nd most-trafficked social media site in the world. There are more than 65 million page views per month. Canada is the 3rd largest user with more the 7 million active users. Currently there are over 180,000 users in the London area alone. Libraries have recently begun to self-market through social media sites, and in particular, Facebook. A "Facebook Page" is a specific type of profile geared towards marketing businessllibrary services to the online community, easily connecting with patrons. Facebook Pages enable communication through "friend networks" or "fans". Whether it is playing a track, watching a video, writing on "the Wall", writing a review, or attending an event, a fan's interaction with a Page can generate News Feed stories to their friends. Since users can immediately click through to that Page and interact with it, engaging Pages will benefit from a virtuous cycle of user attention. Staff will be providing a demonstration for Council. DISCUSSION: Elgin County Libraries would like to create an "Eigin County Library Page" on Facebook to complement the website in marketing library services. Many library patrons are already subscribers, and a Page will enable the library to attract current and new users through social interaction with them. Essentially, the library will be going where the users are, instead of waiting for users to come to the library. Users will be engaged through: . Posting photos and stories of branch activities; . Posting an RSS feed (I.e., automatic updates that go directly to a user) from our website; . Hosting informal book discussions, and other types of collaborative discussions; . Inviting users to library events, and tracking registrants through an RSVP feature; . Access to "Books iRead', or "Bookshare Books", applications that let users share a 'virtual' bookshelf of titles they are currently reading, those they want to read, or those they have read in the past. Users can rate titles, give reviews, and comment on other users' reviews; . Access to" Librarian", a virtual library service that provides links to books, scholarly sources, and reference resources which the community can add or vote on. Those who access the application can access an "Ask a Librarian" service, an "Instant Messaging" tool that allows immediate and real-time access to library services. . Access to "World Cat", an OCLC library application that allows a user to search world libraries. The Facebook Page would have an administrator from the Library who would monitor the commentary and discussion on the site at least once daily to ensure that no inappropriate dialogue is taking place. The administrator would also update the site at least once per week. "Fans" cannot upload personal photos or videos; this can only be done by the library administrator. Discussion on the "Discussion Forum" and "Wall" will be monitored, edited or removed at the discretion of the administrator. Usage and impact will be assessed with the free reporting tools provided by Facebook. Who is Using Facebook? Area libraries are using Facebook Pages and have found success in reaching out to their users. Whitby Public Library, for example has 105 "fans" that are interactive and busy on their site. On average, the public libraries listed have 43 "fans", and all report that these numbers are growing daily. Their administrators monitor the site closely based on "acceptable use" policies that already exist. The County of Elgin already has such a policy in place. The following is a sampling of libraries that currently use the site: . Whitby Public Library . Oakville Public Library . Grand Valley Public Library . Thunder Bay Public Library . London Public Library . North Bay Public Library . Stratford Public Library . Windsor Public Library . Sarnia Public Library . Kitchener Public Library . Waterloo Public Library . Toronto Public Library . Ottawa Public Library . Kingston Frontenac Public Library To date, none of these libraries report unacceptable use of their Facebook pages. Other institutions/entities that are using Facebook include: . Thames Valley District Schools (Lome Ave. School in London; Saunders Secondary School in London has created a "study group" on Facebook) . Conservative Party of Canada . Liberal Party of Canada . St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre . Middlesex County Emergency Services . Service Ontario . Various Canadian universities, such as University of Western Ontario, University of Alberta, Brock University, University of Waterloo, University of Toronto, University of Guelph . Stratford Shakespeare Festival CONCLUSION: Advantages Disadvantages . Proactive marketing . Monitoring of content has to be . Low-risk marketing done daily, staff time is being . Low-cost (read: FREE) used (though time is minimal) marketing . Some Facebook applications . Easy to update and monitor, enable "preventative" very user-friendly program monitoring, while other . Supplement to our web applications only enable presence while interacting with removing of content after it has our library users and potential been posted users . Enables interaction among branches, as well as the library world at large (we can see what other libraries are doing/saying) . Allows for the exploration of new library technologies and applications Facebook is a popular and ever-growing social networking site that allows libraries to have a dynamic presence while connecting with everyday users. An Elgin County Library Page will have value to patrons and potentially draw more users to the library. It is a way to be more directly "in touch" with users and market in a proactive manner. RECOMMENDATION: THAT staff be authorized to create a Facebook page for the Elgin County Library in order to market programs and services under the condition that the site is monitored on a daily basis for appropriate content in accordance with the County's "Acceptable Use Policy for Computer Equipment, Software, Internet Access and Internet E-mail". Respectfully Submitted Approved f bmissi /) (~~L12 Cathy Bish p Director of Cultural Services ')1AJi;{A/M Cu ~-ttv Marina Surette6 Library Promotions Coordinator Mark G. Mc ooJ Chief Administrative Officer REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Clayton Watters[ Director of Engineering Services DATE: March 31[2008 SUBJECT: Ontario Government 2008 Budget - Funding for County Infrastructure CORPORATE GOALS To build and maintain an efficient[ affordable[ effective and safe transportation network that accommodates the diverse needs of our communities and is able to support economic development and sustainable growth. INTRODUCTION In the 2008 Provincial Budget $400 million was allocated to Ontario[s municipalities[ outside of Toronto. The County of Elgin received more than $3 million from the budget[ which must be used for municipal roads and bridges capital investments. DISCUSSION The County of Elgin has more than $230 million dollars of capital projects that need to be undertaken on County of Elgin infrastructure. The Province of Ontario has realized the infrastructure needs of municipalities and has allocated a portion of the 2008 Budget for that purpose. There are several requests from the Province that must be complied with in order to receive the money. The requests are: a minimum description of the eligible expenditures; a final report on how those funds were spent and a by-law from the County of Elgin stating several key issues that will be completed. Those key components are: that the monies will be spent on roads and bridges; a final summary report detailing expenditures[ use of provincial funding and outcomes achieved; any funds not used for that purpose will be refunded to the Province. The County of Elgin[s number one priority for road infrastructure is Talbot Line. Talbot Line: is a arterial road; 51 kilometers in length; an emergency detour route; crosses three of our western municipalities and is a important economic link. The County started this project in 2006 by starting the engineering in Dutton / Dunwich. The last phase[ asphalt rehabilitation[ of the project will be completed in Southwold in 2010. The present planning schedule cannot be accelerated due to the past project schedule. The cost for the Talbot Line project is estimated at $16,000,000 and will be funded from three sources: Province of Ontario; Move Ontario programme 2008 Ontario Budget programme $2,053,333 $3,097,386 Government of Canada; Gas tax programme (2005 till 2010) $3,925,136 County of Elgin; General capital program $6,924,145. Therefore, the Ontario Government will be contributing 32%, the Federal Government will be contributing 25% and the County of Elgin will be contributing the remaining portion or 43% of the $16,000,000 project. CONCLUSION The Province of Ontario has provided $3,097,386 to the County of Elgin for road and bridge capital investment needs. The largest project and number one priority for engineering services is the Talbot Line rehabilitation project. This project will take more than 5 years to complete, consume more than $16 million dollars and affect three municipalities in the western portion of our County. This project is our most important road project and completing it with assistance from the Federal and Provincial governments the County can proceed with other projects sooner. The Province of Ontario has requested an authorizing by-law from the County of Elgin dated before April 30, 2008 stating: that monies will be allocated for roads and bridges capital projects; a final summary report itemizing outcomes and expenditures and that any funds not allocated for the project will be returned to the Ontario government. RECOMMENDATION That the $3/097/386 received form the Ontario Government be allocated to the Talbot Line Rehabilitation project; and also, That the necessary by-law be prepared. Respectfully Submitted Approved for Submission 'fiij=+ Mark G. Mc~ Chief Administrative Officer a1WrWw Clayton D. Watters Director of Engineering Services a3/28/2aa8 15:45 519-631-9478 SIl:.Vl:. t-'l:.llli~ WI"' I"AbI:. l:ltJ/l:lM Steve Peters M.P.P. Elgln~Middle$ex~London ~ PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release Marcll'8, 2008 Fixing roads and bridges In Elgin-Middlesex-London Infrastructure funding alms to strengthen the OntarIo eoonomy ST, THOMAS - The Ontario govemment will Invest $7,956,464 for repairs to roads and brIdges In Elgin-Middlesex-London, MPP Steve petars confirmed today. The funding will assist the ontario eoonomy move forward by Improving the Infrastructure families and bUSInesses depend on. The 2008 Ontario budget will attempt to grow a stronger economy through a five-poInt plan that Includes: . Infrestructure Improvements In every munlolpallty In Onterlo, creating 10,000 Jobs during construcUon: . A new, long.term skills training program for up to 20,000 OntarIo workers; . Lower oasis for businesses, by eliminating the cepltattax for manufacturers: . . Partnerships wlfh forward-looking busInesses to create Jobs, through our Next Generallon of Jobs r:undj . Support for research and development, to turn home-grown Ideas Into Ontario Jobs. "I am pleased to confirm thIs funding," Peters seld. 'The provIncIal governmant Ie working to fix roads that oonnect our communities bacausa femllles and goods nead to get to where they're goIng quIckly and efflolenUy," LOCAL FUNDING BREAKDOWN . County of Elgin, $3,097,386 . Town of Aylmer, $106,358 . MunIcipality of Bayham, $626.740 .. MunIcipality of Oentral ElgIn, $619.686 . MunlclpaUly of Dutton.DunwlCh, $481,597 . TownshIp of Malshlde. $958,539 . Township of Southwold, $564,447 . Munlolpallty OrWellt ElgIn, $423,652 . Municipality of Thames Centre, $694,098 . Clly of St. Thomas, $598,084 QUICK FACTS . The almost $6 millIon allotment Is Elgln-Mlddlssex-london's shere of $400 millIon the Ontario government Is ImmedIately Investing In roads end brIdges In munlolpalltlell outside Toronto, based on lhelr shara of Ontario's road network In relation to population. /2... OonsmuenCll office: 542 Talbot Street StThomas, Ontario HOP 104 Tol: (519) 631-0666 Fall: (519) 631.9418 ~DJail: spoters.mnn.co@lIberaJ.ola.oru Received Time Mar. 28. 2008 2:35PM No. 0344 REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Clayton Watters, Director of Engineering Services DATE: Aprii 8, 2008 SUBJECT: Dexter Line Environmental Assessment - Phase 2 Update CORPORATE GOALS To buiid and maintain an efficient, affordable, effective and safe transportation network that accommodates the diverse needs of our communities and is able to support economic development and sustainable growth. INTRODUCTION The Lake Erie shoreline west of Port Bruce continues to erode and is advancing towards Dexter Line. The top of the eroding bank is as close as 45 meters to the edge of the roadway in one location. As Councii has seen the erosion along Lakeshore Line in the Municipality of Bayham, starting the process to relocate the road takes considerable time, requires extensive technical studies and involves the residents and all stakeholders in that area. Therefore, staff has started the process known as a Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA) to find an acceptable solution for Dexter Line along the north shore of Lake Erie. Phase 1 has been completed and staff are recommending that the County of Elgin proceed with Phase II of the Environmental Assessment process. DISCUSSION Phase I of the Class Environmental Assessment process of the Dexter Line is now complete. The following items have been undertaken during Phase 1: . Research - review avaiiable reports and project information . Preliminary Site Review - road, shoreline area and potential alternate routes . Agency Consultation - informal meeting with key regulatory agencies (MNR, CA, DFO) . Public Consultation - public meeting held on Wednesday, March 19, 2008-04-08 Pubiic submissions stemming from the meeting have been accepted until March 28, 2008 and a detaiied report is being prepared. To date, 24 submissions have been received, including a petition with 191 signatures supporting full shore protection. The following list of project alternatives were provided at the public meeting for preliminary discussion: 1A- Relocate County Road 24 and construct one shoreline Groyne* for road protection 18- Relocate County Road 24 and construct a breakwall for road protection 2- Retain existing County Road 24 alignment and construct full shore protection 3- Relocate County Road 24 to an existing municipal road (potential roads include Martyn Line, Jamestown Line, Rush Creek Line) 4- Close County Road 24 west of Port Bruce to County Road 36 5- Do nothing Project costs associated with various options, road relocation alignments and a complete assessment of alternatives have not yet been completed. A second public meeting is scheduled for the fall of 2008 as part of Phase 2 of the EA process to identify a preferred alternative, outline project costs and provide a comparison of alternatives. Phase 2 In addition to the normal Class EA planning process, the following items will be completed: . Review of shoreline protection/road relocation projects in other Great Lake areas (US / Ontario) to determine workable approaches that could be utilized for this project . Evaluate alternative methods (with technical review as required) for shoreline protection . Assess potential impacts of road closure on Port Bruce (traffic, emergency access, economic, etc.) . Determine potential funding opportunities/approaches for shoreline protection and road relocation. The scope of work will include input from various professionals to complete specialized studies and include: coastal engineering, environmental impacts, geotechnical, transportation and social impact reports. The 2008 Capital Budget includes $50,000 for the work proposed in 2008. Staff recommends extending the services of our existing consultant to continue being the project manager for the remainder of the project, and this practice adheres to the County's purchasing policy. *Groyne - a straight, pier like structure perpendicular to the shoreline. Groynes work by blocking (part of) the littoral drift, whereby they trap/maintain sand on their upstream side and limit shoreline erosion in their immediate area. CONCLUSION The Elgin County Road 24 (Dexter Line) Relocation Project is similar to the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment that was completed on Lakeshore Line, in the Municipality of Bayham for the County of Elgin. The added complication to this project is the requirement to complete the Federal Environmental Assessment. Potential solutions include work within the Lake Erie shoreline which involves the jurisdiction of the Federal Government. These two assessments while similar must be completed concurrently in order that time is not wasted completing the Ontario Municipal Class EA and then proceeding with the Canadian EA. Phase 1 of the EA process is now complete and the Phase 2 process will evaluate alternative options, determine project costs and select a preferred solution. The Capital Budget has allocated $50,000 towards these activities during 2008. Staff recommends extending the services of the County's consultant, Spriet Associates as the project manager for the remainder of this EA. Although the County of Elgin is the proponent of this EA process, there are many other stakeholders being directly affected by encroaching lakeshore erosion (i.e. primary waterline, utilities and landowners). The County of Elgin is simply one of these stakeholders with an interest to protect our roadway property and has no explicit obligation to protect the shoreline. RECOMMENDATION That this report be received and filed. Respectfully Submitted {f(}tJ tA&~~ Clayton D. Watters Director of Engineering Services Approved mission Mark . Chief Administrative Officer REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Clayton Watters, Director of Engineering Services DATE: April 10, 2008 SUBJECT: Tenth Anniversary Garden Request -Administration Building CORPORATE GOALS To forge community partnerships. INTRODUCTION: The County of Elgin has received a request from the Municipality of Central Elgin to install a "Tenth Anniversary Garden" on the grounds of the County Administration Building. DISCUSSION I CONCLUSION: The County has received a request from Central Elgin to install a garden at the County Administration Building (letter attached). The garden is requested to be installed at the north east quadrant of the property, consist of three, six foot diameter interlocking circles and serve to recognise the three former communities that now comprise Central Elgin. The cost of the garden and its future maintenance will be borne by Central Elgin. The County will require a plan for approval and retains the discretion to remove the proposed garden should its maintenance be neglected in the future. Staff considers this as a special request from a municipal partner that would otherwise not be entertained by the County as the building landlord. RECOMMENDATION: That the request to establish a "Tenth Anniversary Garden" at the County Administration Building from the Municipality of Central Elgin be granted, upon the County's approval of the landscape plan. Respectfully Submitted 0fM~~ Clayton Watters Director, Engineering Services Mark McDonal Chief Administrative 0 Icer Communities in Bloom Municipality of Central Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario April 8,2008 Mr. Clayton Watters County Engineer County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario Dear Mr. Watters; The Municipality of Central Elgin would like to erect a tenth anniversalY garden in front ofthe Municipal Offices. The garden would be directly in front of Mr. Leitch's office and would consist of three 6 foot diameter interlocking circles to represent the three former municipalities that were amalgamated in 1998 to form Central Elgin. The gardens will be designed and planted by vohmteer gardeners lium the various horticultural societies in the three areas to represent theil' areas, Volunteers will be maintaining the garden. We are sccking YOUI' pelmission to establish this garden. If possible we would like permission by April301h as tbat is the next meeting of Communities in Bloom. Sincerely, Sally Martyn REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Linda B. Veger, Director of Financial Services DATE: April 14, 2008 SUBJECT: Grant Request CORPORATE GOAL(S) REFERENCED: To ensure fiscal responsibility and accountability. INTRODUCTION: In November a grant request was received from a local organization and was subsequently included in the proposed budget (see attached flyer). Upon review, Council determined not to provide assistance to this project. DISCUSSION: In March, a letter was received from the above organization requesting an explanation for the non-support and erroneously stating that the Director of Financial Services had not provided an explanation. The letter was shared with the Warden and staff was instructed to respond in writing restating the reasons for non-support. Due to timing of the response and Council mail-out, neither letter was included in Council correspondence. In April another letter was received challenging the course of action chosen by the Warden and senior staff. Questions were raised regarding the inclusion or exclusion of correspondence from the agenda. These letters raise an issue for discussion: . For budget purposes, does Council support the current practice of presenting a list of organizations supported in the previous year along with the current grant request correspondence? CONCLUSION: Each year Council reviews the budget being mindful of the impact that every item can have on taxpayers. One of those budget items is the grant line. Council uses its best efforts to determine who to support and many times supports certain organizations from year to year. Questions were raised when a grant request was denied. Council may want a change in the method used by staff to present grant requests. RECOMMENDATION: To be determined by Council. Respectfully Submitted ~~m~~_ Mark G. Mc id Chief Administrative Officer (~~~~~ Linda B. Veger If Director of Financial Services o t~~ro\ ~Q f(.~? y.. ~~S~~~~~9\\\' ~'O\~ ~ ~f(.~ . c~ " ~~ ~flI................................~....... ~ ~\\)U~\!'!~ 1 Don't miss this Week Long \)U\\O Educational Festival _> For Young and Old ~TURDAY, APRIL 19th SILENT AUCTION & COMEDY NIGHT Dutton-Dunwich Community Centre. View Auction items 5 p.m. . Cocktail Hour 5:30 p.m. . Dinner 6:30 p.m. . Show 8:30 p.m. For tickets 519-762-2737 Sponsored by Wallacetown Agricultural Society SUNDAY, APRIL 20th SUNRISE SERVICE 7:30 a.m. Meet at Pearce Park at sunrise. EARTH WEEK EXPO SUNDAY, APRIL 20th 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. - Dutton-Dunwich Community Centre Opening Ceremonies at 10 a.m., includes Aboriginal drums . Face Painting . Displays . Eat at the Lions Den . Drop off Old Computers, Batteries & Printer Cartridges . Trees for Sale MQNDAY, APRIL 21st, EARTH WEEK NATURE WALK Meet qt Buttermilk Bog, Currie Rd., Dutton, 9:30 a.m. REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL From: Rhonda L. Roberts - Director of Senior Services - T/L Pat Vandevenne - Director of Senior Services - BN Date: April 8, 2008 Subject: MOHL TC - Annual Funding Announcement GOALS: . To Ensure Fiscal Responsibility and Accountability INTRODUCTION: The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHL TC) has confirmed the 2008/2009 Long Term Care acuity increase as 1.87%. DISCUSSION: The MOHL TC had announced an annual funding increase, for all long term care homes, as a result of the acuity increase of care. The increase is unpredictable each year as the announcement is generally received in April. Staff do not make anticipate an increase and instead use any funds received to offset unexpected expenditures throughout the year, i.e., outbreak. The increase to the Nursing and Personal Care (NPC) envelope is $1.38 per resident per day. In addition, the Program and Support Services has also increased by $.13 per resident per day. The NPC envelop funding is based upon the case mix index (CMI) for each home. The estimated increase in funding in the NPC envelop for the County Homes is approximately $118,000 annually. The estimated increase in the Program and Support Services is 11,700 annually. CONCLUSION: The MOHL TC has provided an increase in annual funding to the Nursing and Personal Care and Program and Support Services envelopes. The estimated total increase for the County of Elgin Homes effective April 1 ,2008 is $129,700. 2 RECOMMENDATION: THAT the report titled" MOHL TC - Annual Funding Announcement" dated April 8, 2008 be received and filed. Respectfully Submitted Approved for Submission l!!~/illJi Director of Senior Services - T/L -e ( ) ~ rI I -! AI.. A-'"\Jh...A. . Pat Vandevenne Director of Senior Services - BN Acting Director of Senior Services - ElM REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Mark G. McDonald, Chief Administrative Officer. DATE: April 14, 2008 SUBJECT: Reallocation of Medquest Grant for 2008 CORPORATE GOAL/5) REFERENCED: . To ensure fiscal responsibility and accountability . To forge community partnerships . To provide innovative and collaborative quality service . To recognize and seize opportunities for improvement INTRODUCTION: Attached for Council's consideration is a letter from the County of Oxford and correspondence from Councillor Habkirk concerning the 2008 Medquest Camp. It is noted in the letters that the 2008 proposed Camp will not take place this year. This report recommends that the funds previously approved for this event be reallocated. DISCUSSION: Since the County of Elgin and City of St. Thomas have already raised the required funds through their respective budgets ($3500 each) and the funds are for medical needs, the Health Recruitment Partnership respectfully requests that these funds be reallocated to the Partnership for 2008. One of the programs under active consideration by the Partnership is participating in "Discovery Week", which involves rural medical students enrolled in medicine at the University of Western Ontario. Each participating student "job shadows" a local physician" and establishes a network with the medical community. It should be understood that these funds may be used for another purpose by the Partnership, in keeping with its mandate. CONCLUSION: Funds originally intended for the Medquest Program are now available for 2008. The Health Recruitment Partnership respectfully requests that said funds be reallocated to the Partnership for its use. RECOMMENDATION: That the approved grant of $3500 originally intended for the 2008 Medquest Program be reallocated to the Health Recruitment Partnership for its use. Respectfully Submitted fficer. ~ A~ Proud Heritage. Bright Future. The Corporation of the Town of Aylmer 46 Talbot Street, West, Aylmer; Ontario N5H IJ7 Office: 519-773-3164 Fax: 519-765-1446 wwvv.aylmer.ca April 9, 2008 ,. f;)t r= i'" IF~ ~\/I K=: ~\~ ~ \.! &-~...: ~i.t" L~ '''J-_:;i '\;1 !;4C~";'~ fi:f.'rJ County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 5V1 APR 'j (J 2008 f\ ,<') \ h~,~'f"';i.V~ ~'~i nlI:\ \J.,,-\.:~d~):: ,-,,1 ","-,,".,H.l- ,\ IV '1"11.\:1(~'t'),\ 'tilil' ">:'I~\jlC~S K~'~ n"",-n1.(fHd~\;i""" .:>l~~ Attention: Mr. Mark McDonald, CAD. Re: 2008 Medquest Camp On behalf of the Medquest Program this correspondence is being sent to you informing both funding Municipalities that the 2008 Medquest Camp which we have recently learned will not be a reality this year, please see attached. Would you kindly reallocate your budgeted amount to other medical program such as Discovery Week which will not be held unless funding is made available. Thank you for your continued support to Elgin St. Thomas medical needs and initiative. Sincerely ;5~ Bob Habkirk, Mayor Town of Aylmer cc. W. Graves attached ISllxf!?rdCounty ~\ growing stronger... together Office of the CA.O./Clerk p.o. Box 397, 415 Hunter Street, Woodstock, Ontario N4S lY3 Phone: 519+539-9800' Fax:519-537-3024 Website: wWVl.counry.oxford.on.ca APR 0 9 200B April 4, 2008 Mr, Bob Habkirk, Medquest Liaison - Elgin, Oxford, Sl. Thomas, 46 Talbot Street, West, Aylmer, Ontario. N5H 1 J7 Dear Mr, Habkirk: Re: Medquest 2008 - Request for Grant - Oxford County This letter is in response to your letter of October 26, 2007, requesting the County of Oxford Council's consideration of a grant of $3,500.00 towards the 2008 Medquest Camp. At the March 26, 2008 session of Oxford County Council, the County's budget for 2008 was finalized, Unfortunately, Council has chosen not to make a grant towards Medquest in 2008 due to an increase in the number of grant submissions and the limited funds available to respond to these requests. Oxford County Council looks forward the continued success of the Medquest program as carried out by the County of Elgin and the City of Sl. Thomas. Yours very truly, J/ ~~O^ =Y'><.::vv (..A/' ~ Ken Whiteford, CAO./Clerk. cc: P. Holbrough, Warden, County of Oxford Kathy VanDinter, Project Coordinator, Medquest KW/bk REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Mark G. McDonald, Chief Administrative Officer. DATE: April 14, 2008 SUBJECT: Health Recruitment Agreement Finalized CORPORATE GOAL(S) REFERENCED: . To be recognized as a desired employer . To forge community partnerships . To provide innovative and collaborative quality service INTRODUCTION: As Council is aware, the Health Recruitment Partnership has entered into an agreement with a local physician to help attract family physicians to the area. The agreement has now been finalized and will be signed by the City of St. Thomas on behalf of the Partnership. DISCUSSION: Local family physician, Doctor Kellie Scott, has agreed to facilitate the recruitment of three family physicians who are new to Elgin County, under specified terms and conditions. Said covenants are contained in a formal agreement that has been executed by the parties. As part of the agreement, Dr. Scott will provide periodic reports summarizing the amounts of the loan that have been expended, as well as the progress of the recruitment project. CONCLUSION: The Partnership Agreement with a local family physician, for the recruitment of three family doctors, has been finalized through a formal written document. A copy of the agreement is available at St. Thomas City Hall. RECOMMENDATION: THAT this report be received for information. All of which is respectfully submitted, 1fl )---~ Mark G. McDon d, ------- Chief Administrative Officer. REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Mark G. McDonald, Chief Administrative Officer. DATE: April 15, 2008 SUBJECT: Dexter Line Working Group CORPORATE GOAL(Sl REFERENCED: . To ensure fiscal responsibility and accountability . To forge community partnerships . To recognize and seize opportunities for improvement INTRODUCTION: As council is aware from a previous report, the Dexter Line project is now moving to Phase II of an environmental assessment process. While a preferred option is not yet known, it is likely that any long-term solution will encompass both federal and provincial involvement. In order to facilitate discussions with other levels of government, the County should be poised to meet with senior officials on fairly short notice. To that end, this report recommends the establishment of a small working group to coordinate discussions. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: The Dexter Line endeavour will undoubtedly involve discussions with senior levels of government due to lakeshore erosion issues and navigable waterway interests. A small working group representing the County should be established to help facilitate discussions with elected counter parts. Since Dexter Line is located in the Township of Malahide and the Municipality of Central Elgin, it is logical that County representatives be chosen from these locations. RECOMMENDATION: THAT Elgin County Council appoint two elected representatives to the Dexter Line Working Group to help coordinate discussions with other elected officials on this matter. ~)":;~d Mark G. aid Chief Administrative Officer. CORRESPONDENCE - April 22. 2008 Items for Consideration 1. Dianne Wilson, Deputy Clerk, Municipality of Central Elgin, seeking support from Council for their request to the Director of Education - TVDSB, to establish an Accommodation Review Committee (ARC) to complete a study of the Westminster Central School and South Dorchester Public School. (ATTACHED) The Corporation of the Municipality of Central Elgin 450 Sunset Drive, 1st Floor,St. Thomas, Ontario NSR 5Vl P:519.631.4860 F:519.631.4036 April 10th, 2008 Sylvia Hofhuis Warden County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, ON N5R 5Vl ,Iu.1j~ f fi 2808 Dear Warden Hofhuis: Re: Establishment of an Accommodation Review Committee Westminster Central School and South Dorchester Public School I am writing at the request of the Council of the Corporation of the Municipality of Central Elgin to seek support from the Council of the County of Elgin for the creation of an accommodation review committee (ARC) to study the above referenced schools. For your information, I have enclosed correspondence from Central Elgin which was previously sent to Bill Tucker, Director of Education, Thames Valley District School Board, in February on this topic. If you have questions or comments respecting this matter, please do not hesitate to contact me at the municipal office. Yours truly, . ~~ Dianne Wilson Deputy Clerk Encl. >0'-'. The Corporation of the Municipality of Central Elgin 450 Sunset Drive, 1st F1oor,St.Thomas,Ontario N5R5Vl P:519.631.4860 F:519.631.4036 February 12, 2008 Bill lucker Director of Education Thames Valley District School Board P.O. Box 5888 London, Ontario N6A 5L 1 Dear Mr. Tucker: Re: Establishment of an Accommodation Review Committee Westminster Central School and South Dorchester Public School I am writing at the request of the Council of the Municipality of Central Elgin to express Council's support for the creation of an accommodation review committee (ARC) as soon as possible to study the above referenced schools. Councii believes that there is a need to move forward with previous recommendations,such as those in the CN. Watson Long Term Accommodation Study, to establish a new school in the Belmont area to replace the existing Westrninister Central and South Dorchester Public schools. It is understood that Westminister . Central is experiencing declining enrollment while South Dorchester has septic system problems and is over capacity. Council is aiso aware of the growth potential of the community of Belmont. With the upgrading of sewage and water treatment facilities in this community, Council believes that Belmont is on the verge of a new period of growth. Currently, the Municipality has applications for plans of subdivision, at various stages of approval, that would result In the creation of over 170 lots with additional lands designated for future residential development. Council understands that the Board's Capital Planning Advisory Committee - Elgin, at its January 23, 2008 meeting, passed a motion "that consideration be given to the Belmont area for the next round of ARC discussions." Council strongly supports the creation of an ARC for Westminister Central and South Dorchester public schoois at the earliest possible opportunity. onald N. Leitch, Chief Administrative Officer. .../2 2 C: Mayor and Council Frank Exley, Trustee Tracy Grant, Trustee CORRESPONDENCE - APRIL 22. 2008 Items for Information (Consent Aaendal 1. Cynthia St. John, Chief Administrative Officer, Elgin-St. Thomas Health Unit, with an update on the West Nile virus Budget and a breakdown of the County of Elgin share of the virus activities 2008 funding. (ATTACHED) 2. AMO Member Communication ALERT, "Municipal Infrastructure Funding - Building Canada Fund". (ATTACHED) 3. Mayor James McIntyre, Township of Southwold: 1) with a letter thanking Mark McDonald for his participation in the interview process for the CAO. position at Southwold and use of County facilities for the interviews; 2) thanking Peter Dutchak for his assistance with the grant application submitted to Infrastructure Ontario for the Hunter Hill Road and Culvert project. (ATTACHED) 4. Premier Dalton McGuinty, acknowledging Council's support for the Regional Municipality of Niagara's resolution calling on the Federal Government to amend Bill C-22 to provide Ontarians with their fair share of seats in the House of Commons. 5. M. Bredeson, Executive Correspondence Officer, Office of the Prime Minister, acknowledging Council's support for the Regional Municipality of Niagara's resolution calling on the Federal Government to amend Bill C-22 to provide Ontarians with their fair share of seats in the House of Commons. 6. Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Health and the Minister for the Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario, acknowledging Council's support of the City of Waterloo's resolution concerning safety and efficacy of all chemical pesticides that have been approved by the federal government. (ATTACHED) ELGIN ST. THOMAS PUBLIC HEALTH "1,""",;rfr~' Fl;;'~ :tt;~!f'ft\_. - _~_ ,'tJ ~ rt-.tJ r! ~ 11:-"'-+'1 fJ '11 "' ~ ti; ";"'~,'l \;,~!? ly~J P "It !Yt,li_'=:}'1 !;" ,~,' S;"r-j'~' Jf kv/'"t;.;'o;-' ~,.~ ,r. ~;.> "L~l i-s La/tt;:;" APR - 'l 200 "fl" FJ ~. ',-. ~k,JJiVli tij~ t-;-:~,,_. .Jl_l\1I'''"".'~ "".Ur!,! "4t~'jJ.W~7pli;~h, '1>_:;.:_ f!.V' ""~;~:r!;I'1;~~'f,'( . -~i'~t~ April 3, 2008 Mr. Mark McDonald Chief Administrative Officer County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, ON N5R 5V1 Dear Mark: RE: West Nile Virus Budget - 2008 I am writing to advise you that the 2008 West Nile virus budget has recently been approved by the Board of Health. This budget was not included in the mandatory program budget for the 2008 year that was previously sent to you as the timing and funding is different than the mandatory budget. As with last year, Elgin St. Thomas Public Health will be engaged in West Nile virus activities that will include public education, surveillance, and other preparatory work. The total cost of this work is $73,263.00. At the April 2008 Board of Health meeting, the Board directed Public Health staff to implement the approved 2008 activity plan. The breakdown of funding including the City of St. Thomas' portion is noted below: Cost Shared West Nile virus Activities Ministry of Health and Long Term Care (75%) City of Sl. Thomas (41 % of 25%) County of Elgin (59% of 25%) $54,947.25 $7,509.46 $10,806.29 The 2007 audited financial statements for Public Health have recently been approved. The 2006 surplus owing is $1,124.44 and therefore the amount owed by the County of Elgin is $9,681.85. Elgin SI. Thomas Public Health 99 Edward Street, SI. Thomas, ON N5P 1Y8 Phone: 519-631-9900 Toll Free: 1-800-922-0096 Fax: 519-633-0468 Voicemail: 519-631-3159 www.elginhealth.on.ca L ,,,' A. ,/ Cofll;)) /'0 /"'.1./,., V, o 'florlof ./J, Mr. Mark McDonald April 3, 2008 Page 2 If you have any questions regarding the above information, please contact me at 519-631-3159 ext. 202. Kind regards, 1 ~.' Cynthia t. John Executive Director CSJ:vom c. Laura McLachlin, Director, Health Protection Department Mary Ens, Supervisor, Accounting 200 University Ave, Suite 801 Toronto, ON M5H 3C6 Tel.: (416) 971-98561 Fax: (416) 971-6191 E-mail: amo@amo.on.ca I- MEMBER COMMUNICATION ALERT NO: 08/018 W -J <( To the attention of the Clerk and Council April 2, 2008 FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Craig Reid, AMO Policy Advisor (416) 971-9856 ext334 Municipal Infrastructure Funding - Building Canada Fund Issue: At its March 28, 2008 Board Meeting, the AMO Board of Directors passed a resolution calling on the federal and provincial governments to work together to make funding under the Building Canada Fund (BCF) available to Ontario municipalities as soon as possible. Background: The Building Canada Fund (BCF) is a seven-year $8.8B national fund for infrastructure announced in the 2007 federal budget. The BCF is allocated to provinces and territories on a per capita basis, and includes a Major Infrastructure Component and a Communities Component. Ontario's share of the BCF is estimated at approximately $3.1 B. Matching criteria for both the Major Infrastructure and the Communities Component is anticipated to be on a 1/3 federal, 1/3 provincial, 1/3 municipal basis. The Major Infrastructure Component of the BCF will be applied mostly to infrastructure of national significance, and is anticipated to be approximately $2.8B in Ontario. Priorities for this fund are for "nationally significant" infrastructure, including water and wastewater, public transit, core national highways and green energy. Projects will be selected on a merit basis through a federal-provincial negotiation process. This component is for large scale or major projects. What constitutes a major project will be determined through federal-provincial negotiations. The Communities Component is anticipated to be at least $298M in Ontario. Federal terms and conditions require that this fund be dedicated to communities with populations of 100,000 residents or under. The Communities Component is the successor program to COMRIF. The Communities Component would potentially fund such projects as local roads and bridges, water and wastewater, and solid waste management. Subject to federal-provincial negotiations, it could potentially include additional project categories such as shortline rail and shipping, municipal airports and connectivity among others. Federal conditions require that this funding be application based. To flow this funding in Ontario, the provincial and federal governments must negotiate and sign the Building Canada Framework Agreement which sets out obligations and responsibilities of both governments. To date, the federal government has signed six agreements with the provinces and territories: . British Columbia . Nova Scotia . New Brunswick . Newfoundland and Labrador . Nunavut . Northwest Territories 1-2 Association of Attie Municipalities of Ontario t The Ontario and federal governments have been negotiating the agreement since last autumn and discussions were disrupted by the Ontario general election. It is understood that negotiations are still underway, but Ontario municipalities are in need of the funding for important local infrastructure works. To urge the provincial and federal governments to work together to quickly conclude the agreement and flow funds to Ontario municipalities, the AMO Board of Directors passed the following resolution on March 28, 2008: Whereas the Federal Government announced its intention to negotiate the Building Canada Framework Agreement with the Government of Ontario; and Whereas the Building Canada Framework Agreement has funding components for municipalities of all sizes with $3.1 billion earmarked for Ontario's municipal government; and Whereas the federal government has signed six (6) of 13 framework agreements with Canada's other provincial and territorial governments; and Whereas Canada and Ontario have been holding discussions on the Building Canada Framework Agreement since late last year; Therefore be it resolved that the Governments of Canada and Ontario make a commitment to renewed, dedicated negotiations that will see a Building Canada Framework Agreement signed expeditiously so that Ontario's municipal governments can benefit from additional investment opportunities that a collaborative Canada-Ontario contribution agreement can bring to their significant infrastructure needs. I- a: ..J Action: AMO has forwarded the resolution to the Canada and Ontario Ministers responsibie for Infrastructure for their consideration. Ontario municipalities are encouraged to endorse the resolution and forward it to their local Members of Parliament and Provincial Parliament as well as the Ministers of Infrastructure. This information is available in the Policy Issues section of the AMO website at www.amo.on.ca. 2-2 Association of .hie Municipalities of Ontario TOWNSHIP OF SOUTHWOLD 35663 Fingal Line Fingal, ON NOL 1 KO Phone: (519) 769-2010 Fax: (519) 769-2837 Erna/I: drncleod@twp.southwold.on.ca March 31,2008 Mark McDonald Chief Administrative Officer County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, ON N5R 5V1 ~ Dear M4J0ald: / f:,PR <> 3 2008 , ';,',c'I-"I\;lfl~~n r 'Jh.. d'.}b.i\:I Re: Township of Southwold - Use of County Facilities On behalf of Council I would like to take this opportunity to express sincere thanks and appreciation to you for your participation in the interviewing process for the C.A.O position. I would also like to acknowledge our thanks for allowing the use of the facilities at the County Building to conduct the interviews, including the use of the phone to allow Councillor Cron to participate through a conference call. Please advise of any charges the Township may have incurred with the use of the phone. Your assistance on behalf of the County confirms a cooperative and very positive working relationship between our offices. Thank you again for your assistance in this matter. Yo::' 1uJ1 ~es Mcintyre Mayor *~~- / .,--.-- ~' /~ --~'-- \ (-' -:J . >~I ci~- '1850 AtII. .jyl ~'ZS0_- xJ" "!:!II? of SO">' . =-~~~- TOWNSHIP OF SOUTHWOLD 35663 Fingal Line Fingal, ON NOL 1 KO Phone: (519) 769-2010 Fax: (519) 769-2837 Email: dmcleod@twp.southwold.on.ca April 1, 2008 // / Peter Dutchak, yET Manager of ~68d Infrastructure County cPBgin 450 $tInset Drive 7Thomas, ON N5R 5V1 Dear Mr. Dutchak: tlPR <> 3 200B ('i<HP}~\J {\:;; r:l ni1\,1 ,J " ',' I ." ',. ~ .,,1., ~." \.':~~'q\JI('~a~ '~l,.,l,\',\/t".V Re: Municipal Infrastructure Investment Initiative (Mill) Township of Southwold - Hunter Hill Project As you are aware, the Township of Southwold will receive a one-time grant in the amount of $200,000.00 to be used for the Hunter Hill Road and Culvert. We would like to express our sincere thanks for your assistance with regard to the grant application submitted to Infrastructure Ontario. Your review and input ensured that the Township submitted a complete and detailed application, and in turn we were successful in receiving the funds for our project Once again and on behalf of Council thank you for your assistance in this matter, it was very much appreciated. Yours very truly, ~4' ..---:-: <~ - Scott Woolley Public Works Superintendent ~Mark McDonald, CAO - County of Elgin The Premier of Ontario Le Premier ministre de l'Ontario Edifice de ['Assemblee h3gisJative Queen's Park Toronto (Ontario) M7A 1A1 ~ 1I{1ZlZ:II" Ontario Legislative Building Queen's Park Toronto, Ontario M7A 1A1 April 9, 2008 ~,1:-t. ''''''ii>#'f,<:o ['/,,,:, {,;- p'M'_'H "<;' H i':" !A..~ R'" ~I fJlli';; ~ ~ ~""~ ....-..7 '~"rf'~ \f \'<40 !k:P APR 'I 1 2006 Mrs. Sandra J. Heffren Manager of Administrative Services County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 5V1 t~,.t~!:"LGfl! "("':,,;\-.,.., i-\t)hh~i~!ii.i t~~:;nV~Gk:B Dear Mrs. Heffren: Thank you for your letter of March 26, informing me of council's decision to support the resolution of the Regional Municipality of Niagara. I appreciate your keeping me apprised of council's position. I note that you have also written to the Right Honourable Stephen Harper, Prime Minister of Canada, regarding Bill C-22, An Act to Amend the Constitution Act, 1867, a bill which falls under federal jurisdiction. On December 10, 2007, our government passed a resolution calling on the federal government to amend Bill C-22, the legislation that threatens to weaken democratic representation for Canadians living in Ontario. Thank you again for the information. I welcome council's input on this or any other issue of provincial concern. Yours truly, (Jtt.., Dalton McGuinty Premier @ Office of the Prime Minister Cabinet du Premier ministre Ottawa, Canada KiA OA2 April 4, 2008 Mrs. Sandra J. Heffren Manager of Administrative Services County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. llhomas, Ontario N5R 5VI , ,"" A"'~ ""'" ., '" "!:!""" ["') t~ ~.., ~ \''' !' ',p, ."" !, ' ;\!t'-l <<;;:'t ~~\,(.i J~; ~J \j Lt~":-l - APR 1 1 zooa (~\t:N J'{ o~ f-LG~t:~ 7\1)*~M:$~*_~~~~:2 Dear Mrs. Heffren: On behalf of the Right Honourable Stephen Harper, I would like to acknowledge receipt of your correspondence of March 26, with which you enclosed a resolution of the Regional Municipality of Niagara, as endorsed by the County of Elgin, regarding Bill C-22, An Act to amend the Constitution Act, 1867 (Democratic representation). You may be assured that the views expressed in the resolution have been carefully reviewed. I have taken the liberty of fOlwarding a copy of your correspondence to the Honourable Peter Van Loan, Leader of the Government in the House of Commons and Minister for Democratic Reform. I am certain that the Minister will also appreciate receiving this information. llhank you for writing to the Prime Minister. Yours sincerely, 1f1v[. ~c:Ct1/U0 M. Bredeson Executive Correspondence Officer Canada Minister of Health and the Minister for the Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario Ministre de ia Santeet Ministre de l'lnitiative fMerale du developpement economique dans Ie Nord de I'Ontario ~~~ 0 3 200B Ottawa, Canada K1AOK9 Mrs. Sandra J. Heffren Manager of Administrative Services County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 5Vl .~t~;:~~l~:~": ~~':,X~ APR - 3 lOGO Dear Mrs. Heffren: The office of the Prime Minister has forwarded to me a copy of your correspondence of November 27, 2007, with which you enclosed a copy of a City of Waterloo resolution concerning the safety and efficacy of pesticides. Health Canada's Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) has a mandate to prevent unacceptable risks to people and the environment from the use of pest control products. Because there can be risks associated with their use, pesticides are among the most rigorously tested and regulated substances in the world. Under the Pest Control Products Act, if the Minister considers that the health and environmental risks and the value of a pest control product are acceptable based on a rigorous scientific evaluation, the Minister shall confirm the registration. In other words, if a pesticide meets the criteria of "acceptable risk" and value, regardless of whether it is for agricultural or lawn care use, registration must be granted. A pest control product's label is the final outcome of the detailed scientific assessment, communicating essential information for the safe use of the product, including hazard identification and mitigation measures as part of the registration process. In May 2006, the PMRA published the Formulants Policy and Implementation Guidance Document. This policy will ensure that formulants contained in pesticide products meet current standards, and that manufacturers label their products to disclose the presence of allergens and preservatives, helping to minimize the risks associated with pest control products. The PMRA, in cooperation with provincial regulators, works to develop sustainable pest management practices. In the area of urban pesticide use, the Healthy Lawns Strategy was developed to encourage healthy lawn practices that help to avoid the need for pesticides. When pesticides are necessary, we encourage careful use of lower- risk products. In doing so, pest control benefits are maximized, while health and environmental risks are minimized. More information is available online at http://www.healthylawns.ca. .../2 Canada - 2 - The sale, impOliation and advertisement of consumer chemical products are subject to the Consumer Chemicals and Containers Regulations, 2001 issued under the authority of the Hazardous Products Act (HP A). The purpose of the HP A and its associated regulations is to protect the health and safety of Canadians by prohibiting or regulating the sale, advertisement and importation of products that are, or are likely to be, hazardous. A project to review and modernize the HP A is currently underway that will improve protection of children and adults from environmental pollutants. The Government of Canada recognizes that children are especially vulnerable to environmental risks. We are working with provincial and territorial partners to develop a national strategy to address environmental risks to children's health in Canada. The Government is also working with non-governmental partners such as the Canadian Partnership on Child Health and Environment (CPCHE), a coalition of environmental, health and child care organizations. With this government's support, the CPCHE will soon conclude a cross-Canada consultation process on children's environmental health issues. Thank you for writing. Yours sincerely, c.c. Office of the Prime Minister CLOSED MEETING AGENDA APRIL 22. 2008 PRESENTATION: 1. Manager of Economic Development and Tourism Services - Section 240.2 (b) personal matters about identifiable individuals - Verbal presentation on possible new venture product. 2. Chief Administrative Officer - Section 240.2 (e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board - Statement of Claim Regarding Legal Matter (ATTACHED) Administrative Services Department Administration Building 450 Sunset Drive, SI. Thomas, Ontano, N5R 5V1 Phone: (519) 631-1460 Ex!. 156 Fax: (519) 633-7661 County of Elgin www.elgin-county.on.ca Fax Fax: Phone: Re: Warden Hofhuis and County Councillors Call Group #3 From: Mark G. McDonald mmcdonald@elgin-county.on.ca April 18, 2008 13 including cover sheet To: Additional Items for Council Agenda of April 22, 2008 Date: Pages: cc: Comments: Correspondence: Items for Consideration - attached 1) South Central Ontario Region (SCOR) - Memorandum of Understanding Rural Initiative Minutes: - attached 1) February 1, 2008 2) February 12, 2008 BY-LAW: -attached By-Law No. 08-11 "Being a By-Law to Authorize the Execution of a Memorandum of Understanding Between the Corporation of the County of Elgin and the Corporation of the County of Brant; The Corporation of the County of Middlesex; The Corporation of the County of Oxford; and the Corporation of Norfolk County for the South Central Ontario Region (SCOR) Initiative", THE INFORMATION IN THIS FACSIMILE IS FOR THE NAMED RECIPIENT ONLY. IT MAY CONTAIN INFORMATION THAT IS PRNILEGED, CONFIDENTIAL AND EXEMPT FROM DISCLOSURE UNDER APPLICABLE LAW. IF THE READER OF THIS MESSAGE IS NOT THE INTENDED RECIPIENT, OR RESPONSIBLE FOR DELIVERING THE MESSAGE TO THE INTENDED RECIPIENT, ANY DISSEMINATION, DISTRIBUTION OR COPYING OF THIS COMMUNICATION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. IF YOU HAVE RECEIVED THIS COMMUNICATION IN ERROR, OR THERE ARE PROBLEMS IN TRANSMISSION, PLEASE NOTIFY US BY TELEPHONE. (!j REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Mark G. McDonald, Chief Administrative Officer. DATE: April 17, 2008 SUBJECT: South Central Ontario Region (SCOR) Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) CORPORATE GOAL'S) REFERENCED: . To ensure fiscal responsibility and accountability . To promote Elgin as "The Place to Live" . To forge community partnerships . To recognize and seize opportunities for improvement INTRODUCTION: Attached for Council's consideration is a draft Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the South Central Ontario Region (SCOR) initiative. Council is being asked to approve the document and to appoint two political representatives to the Executive Committee and two staff representatives to the Administrative Standing Committee. DISCUSSION: The Memorandum of Understanding is designed to set out the parameters of the SCOR initiative and to define how the various parties will interact. It is noted that this is a shared project with administrative support being rotated amongst the participants. In terms of appointments, Council is being asked to approve two elected representatives and two staff members to participate on the Executive and Administrative Committees respectively. Council should note that although two representatives are to be appointed, only one vote is permitted by each County. Therefore, County Council should assign which member receives the voting privilege at both the staff and administrative level, it being understood that when the voting member is absent the alternate member is assigned the voting privilege. CONCLUSION: The Memorandum of Understanding for the SCOR program is presented for adoption. Council should appoint two elected representatives to serve on the Executive Committee and assign a vote to one of those members with the understanding that the second member may vote when the primary member is absent. In addition, two staff @ representatives should be appointed as well, along with an order of voting preference, since staff may be required to vote at the Standing Committee level. RECOMMENDATION: THAT the Memorandum of Understanding dated April 16th, 2008 regarding the South Central Ontario Region (SCaR) initiative be approved; and, THAT be appointed (with primary voting privileges) and be appointed (with alternate voting privileges) as the County of Elgin's elected representatives on SCaR's Executive Committee; and further, THAT be appointed (with primary voting privileges) and be appointed (with alternate voting privileges) as the County of Elgin's non-elected members of SCaR's Administrative Standing Committee. ALL of which is respectfully submitted, Mark G. n Chief Administrative Officer. (j) April 16, 2008 Corporation of the County of Elgin Corporation of the County of J'vliddlesex Corporation of the County of Oxford Corporation of the County of Brant Corporation of Norfolk County The attached Memorandum of Understanding (MOD) is provided for your review on behalf of the Mayors and the staff of the five Counties who have been involved in launching the SCaR initiative. Endorsement of this MOD by resolution of County Council is requested. Sincerely, Heather Adams Chair of the SCaR Working Group South Central Ontario Region (SCaR) @ Memorandum of Understanding between The Corporation of the County of Elgin and the Corporation of the County of Middlesex and the Corporation of the County of Oxford and the Corporation of the County of Brant and the Corporation of Norfolk County The Corporation of the County of Elgin, the Corporation of the County of Middlesex, the Corporation of the County of Oxford, the Corporation of the County of Brant, and the Corporation of NOlfolk County - (the Parties) - affirm the recognition that a regional approach to economic development is important to improving the vitality and sustainability of our communities and further that by working together we can harness the region's potential and become a rural economic powerhouse for the Province of Ontario and Canada. To realize this vision will require leadership and purposeful actions that acknowledge the unique opportunities and challenges of the region. The proposed identity for the five County region is the "South Central Ontario Region" (SCaR). The goals and objectives of this initiative are outlined in the South Central Ontario Region (SCaR) Action Plan, which has been endorsed by the Parties and attached as Schedule A. 1. Purpose The pmpose of this Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is to establish a working anangement between the Patties to create a new economic region. 1.1 This MOD affirms that the Parties agree on the importance of developing a sustainable approach to economic development, infrastructure, local capacity building, employment opportunities and skills development. 1.2 The main objective of this MOD is to establish the Patties as a strategic, integrated and globally competitive economic region. 1.3 This MOD establishes the framework for collaboration between the Parties. 2. Background Early in 2007. municipal leaders from the five Counties prepared a plan to encourage investment and SUPPOlt from Senior Government. A discussion paper, entitled Proposals for Government Investment: Addressing Economic Decline in Tobacco Growing Counties of Southwestern Ontario, was prepared and sent to Ministers and others. The municipal leaders also scheduled appointments with Ministers at conferences through the summer, and discussed the proposals with them. As a result, Ministry Staff were assigned by the provincial and federal governments. Late in 2007, a working group of economic development staff from the five Counties met with Provincial Ministry staff to explore aspects of the offer of assistance from the province. Provincial Ministry staff indicated they had been authorized to work on a regional economic development strategy with municipalities. Senior Staff from the five Counties met with Provincial MinistlY staff to discuss and plan next steps. Page I of 4 @ Memorandum of Understanding between The Corporation of the County of Elgin and the Corporation of the County of Middlesex and the Corporation of the County of Oxford and the Corporation of the County of Brant and the Corporation of Norfolk County This MOD is the result of those discussions over the past sixteen months and represents the vision and leadership of all of the Parties. 3. Governance 3.1 Organizational Structure 3.1.1 Executive Committee An Executive Committee composed of ten (10) members (elected officials); two appointed by each County Council will govem affairs on behalf of the organization. A Chair, Vice Chair and Treasurer shall be elected at the first meeting and serve a term of one (1) year. Subsequent two (2) one-year terms are petmitted. The Executive Committee will provide direction and oversight. It will approve all expenditures and public messaging. It will commission other ad hoc committees as required. The Chair or designate will be the sole media spokesperson. 3.1.2 Administrative Standing Committee An Administrative Standing Committee of ten (10) members (non-elected), consisting of two staff provided by each County as an in-kind contribution to the initiative will administer activities on behalf of the Executive Committee. Economic Development staff are likely candidates for this role. A Chair and Vice Chair shall be elected at the first meeting and serve a term of one (1) year. The Chair of the Administrative Standing Committee shall be from a different County than the Chair of the Executive Committee. 3.1.3 Decision making will be by consensus. Where in the opinion of the Chair a consensus cannot be reached there will be a vote. Each County shall have one (1) vote. 3.2 Quorum A quolUm shall be six (6) members. 3.3 Ad Hoc Committees Other Ad Hoc Committees commissioned by the Executive Committee will report through the Administrative Standing Committee to the Executive Committee. 3.4 Banker NOlfolk County will provide interim banking services. Cheques shall be deposited in trust to the South Central Ontario Region (SCOR). Page 2 of 4 @ Memorandum of Understanding between The Corporation of the County of Elgin and the Corporation of the County of Middlesex and the Corporation of the County of Oxford and the Corporation of the County of Brant and the Corporation of Norfolk County 3.5 Administrative SUppOlt All Patties will shat'e in hosting meetings, provide administrative support for messaging, distributing Agendas, publishing Minutes and will provide other in kind contributions. 4. General 4.1 This MOD is not legally enforceable or binding and shall not be construed to create any legal obligation on the part of any of the member Counties. 4.2 This MOD will be in effect for a period of two years from the signing date and will be reviewed prior to the end of the two year period. 4.3 This MOD in no way restricts any Party or municipality from patticipating independently in any economic development activity or from working with other public or ptivate agencies, organizations or individuals. 4.4 This MOD is neither a fiscal nor a funding obligation document. Nothing in this MOD authorizes or is intended to obligate the member Counties to expend, exchange or reimburse funds, services or supplies, or transfer or receive anything of value. 4.5 All agreements herein are subject to, and will be catTied out in compliance with, all applicable laws, regulations and other legal requirements. 4.6 The actions contemplated in this MOD will begin upon signing. Page 3 of 4 @ Memorandum of Understanding between The Corporation of the County of Elgin and the Corporation of the County of Middlesex aud the Corporation of the County of Oxford and the Corporation of the County of Brant and the Corporation of Norfolk County Signed this day of in the year 2008 in the Province of Ontario, Corporation of the County of Elgin Corporation of the County of Elgin By Name: Sylvia Hoflmis Title: Warden By Name: Mark McDonald Title: Chief Administrative Officer Corporation of the County of Middlesex Corporation of the County of Middlesex By Name: Albert Bannister Title: Warden By Name: Kathy Bunting Title: Clerk Corporation of the County of Oxford Corporation of the County of Oxford By Name: Paul Holbrough Title: Warden By Name: Ken Whiteford Title: Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk Corporation of the County of Brant Corporation of the County of Brant By Name: Ron Eddy Title: Mayor By Name: Jayne Cmman Title: Clerk Corporation of Norfolk County Corporation of Norfolk County By Name: Dennis Travele Title: Mayor By Name: BevWood Title: Clerk / Manager of Council Services Attachment: South Central Ontario Region (SCOR) Action Plan @ Page 4 of 4 Minutes of the RURAL INITIATIVES COMMITTEE Friday, February 1, 2008 - 3:30 P.M. 3rd Floor Board Room - County Administration Building Present: Warden Hofhuis and Councillors Mcintyre, Warwick and Wilson Also Present: Mark G. McDonald, Chief Administrative Officer, County of Elgin 2007 Chairman John R. Wilson called the meeting to order and turned the meeting over to the Chief Administrative Officer who then asked for nominations for Chair of the Rural Initiatives Committee for 2008. Moved by Councillor Wilson Seconded by Councillor Warwick That Councillor Jim Mcintyre be appointed as Chair of the Rural Initiatives Committee for 2008. - Carried Unanimously. Councillor Mcintyre assumed the Chair. In reference to the role of the Rural Initiatives Committee, Councillor Wilson emphasized the need to act consistently and from a co-ordinated stance. It is imperative that issues be addressed and spearheaded by the Committee and that others wait for direction before proceeding. Moved by Councillor Warwick Seconded by Councillor Wilson That the minutes of the meeting held on October 30th, 2007 be approved. - Carried. Correspondence Item #1 re: Moya Greene, President and C.E.O., Canada Post. The following recommendation was advanced: Moved by Councillor Wilson Seconded by Councillor Warwick That the Chair be authorized and directed to write a follow-up letter to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities requesting a response to the Committee's earlier resolution on Canada Post's community mailbox program. - Carried. @ -2- Correspondence item #2 re: Various letters regarding the tardy and cumbersome process for drainage maintenance evoked the following recommendation. Moved by Warden Hofhuis Seconded by Councillor Warwick That Mr. Tom Hoggarth, Southern Ontario A1District Manager, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, be invited to attend a Rural Initiatives Committee to discuss the various matters affecting draining maintenance approvals; and, That the correspondence be received and filed. - Carried. Correspondence item #3 re: Delegation deadline for 2008 ROMAlOGRA Conference. Moved by Councillor Wilson Seconded by Warden Hofhuis That the delegation request information for the 2008 OGRAlROMA Conference be received and filed. - Carried. Other Business: 1) The role and purpose of local Conservation Authorities was discussed at length, particularly the propensity to deny requests instead of approving them. This in turn led to a discussion of the proposed levy increase and funding to the tree planting program. Chair's Direction: 1) The Chair was directed to invite Mr. Mark Emery to attend a Rural Initiatives Committee to discuss the "Trees Ontario" program as well as the Elgin Land Stewardship Council. 2) Councillor Wilson provided an update on a recent meeting he attended regarding the Thames Valley District School Board's Capital Planning Committee. The Rural Initiatives Committee also discussed the recent information on the Port Stanley Public School and Southwold Public School connection. The CAO. noted that he has been invited to meet with the Director of Education next week and will be providing the County's perspective. 3) County Planning was discussed as a result of an earlier meeting held with M.P.P. Steve Peters. @ -3- Moved by Councillor Wilson Seconded by Councillor Warwick That the Rural Initiatives Committee recommend to County Council that staff be directed to investigate the feasibility of establishing a County Land Use Planning function and report back to Council at the first opportunity. - Carried Unanimously. Date of Next Meetina At the Call of the Chair. Adiournment Moved by Councillor Wilson Seconded by Councillor Warwick That we now adjourn at 5:07 p.m. to meet again at the Call of the Chair. -Carried @ Minutes of the RURAL INITIATIVES COMMITTEE Tuesday, February 12, 2008 - 2:00 P.M. 3rd Floor Board Room - County Administration Building Present: Councillors Mcintyre, Warwick, Wilson and Habkirk Also Present: Mark G. McDonald, Chief Administrative Officer, County of Elgin 1) Chairman Mcintyre called the meeting to order. 2) Integrated Grain Producers Co-operative (IGPC)'s natural resources gas issue was discussed. A meeting with the appropriate Ministers (Phillips and Dombrowski) would be in order, to help expedite the construction of the ethanol plant in Aylmer. 3) The Committee then contacted Craig Bradford at Steve Peter's office for an update on the project and to request a meeting with the Ministers responsible. Moved by Councillor Wilson Seconded by Councillor Warwick THAT the following plan of action be undertaken: 1) Set up meetings with Ministers Philips and Dombrowski at Good Roads 2) Alternatively visit directly with the Minister(s) on another date at their convenience 3) A letter from the Rural Initiatives Committee to the lower-tier municipalities requesting support, as well as, Middlesex, Oxford, Brant and Norfolk. Note: send draft to George Alkalay of IGPC for his comments 4) Mark to prepare a Ministerial Brief for circulation to all municipal stakeholders and the provincial government. - Carried. The meeting adjourned at 3:42 p.m. NOTE: Warden Hofhuis attended following adjournment and was apprised of the action plan. {j Administrative Services Department Administration Building 450 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas, Ontario, N5R 5V1 Phone: 519-631-1460 Ext 156 Fax: 519-633-7661 County of Elgin www.elgin-county.on.ca Fax 0: Warden Hofhuis and Elgin County Councillors From: Administrative Services Department Fax: Call Group #'s Date: April 21, 2008 Phone: Pages: 4 includina cover sheet Re: Matter of Urgency cc: Comments: Report: 1) Manager of Road Infrastructure - Richmond Outlet Drain THE INFORMATiON IN THIS FACSIMILE IS FOR THE NAMED RECIPIENT ONL Y_ IT MAY CONTAIN INFORMATION THAT IS PRMLEGED, CONFIDENTIAL AND EXEMPT FROM DISCLOSURE UNDER APPLICABLE LAW IF THE READER OF THIS MESSAGE IS NOT THE INTENDED RECIPIENT, OR RESPONSIBLE FOR DELIVERING THE MESSAGE TO THE INTENDED RECIPIENT, ANY DISSEMINATION, DISTRIBUTION OR COPYING OF THIS COMMUNICATION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. IF YOU HAVE RECEIVED THIS COMMUNICATION IN ERROR, OR THERE ARE ANY PROBLEMS IN TRANSMISSION, PLEASE NOTIFY US BY TELEPHONE. REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Peter Dutchak, Manager of Road Infrastructure DATE: April 21, 2008 SUBJECT: Richmond Outlet Drain CORPORATE GOALS: To build and maintain an efficient, affordable, effective and safe transportation network that accommodates the diverse needs of our communities and is able to support economic development and sustainable growth. INTRODUCTION: In 2005, a new municipal drain was constructed in the Hamlet of Richmond in the Municipality of Bayham to service 5 newly created residential lots. This drain relies upon an existing County road drain for its outlet. The County of Elgin has petitioned to incorporate its road drain into a Municipal Drain to formalize its status and to recognize that the hamlet of Richmond relies upon this drain outlet. The assessment has been appealed by a landowner and the Court of Revision ruled in his favour and assessed additional costs towards the County. DISCUSSION: The County of Elgin has petitioned for an existing road drain to be incorporated into a Municipal Drain now that another Municipal Drain relies upon it for its outlet. The County originally constructed the drainage works during the Heritage Line road construction in 1979. Under a formal agreement, the drain outlet was extended onto private property into the natural gully to protect the gully head from further erosion and fill a section of gully for the landowner's benefit at the entire cost of the County. Fifty-five (55) properties as well as four (4) municipal roads and two (2) County roads are within the Richmond Outlet Drain watershed area and contribute to this outlet. The proposed works incorporate existing County road drain infrastructure and extend the drain a further 50m on private property and fill the ravine (to reciaim lost land) as requested by the landowner (appellant). There is no physical work on County property. The total cost of the works is estimated at $52,325 of which $36,250 (or 70%) is assessed towards the County of Elgin, although only 7% of the total watershed area is owned by the County and no physical works are proposed on County property. Although the County's contribution in the engineer's report appeared high, the County trusted the judgement of the engineer and was satisfied with its assessment. The landowner where the drain outlets has appealed his $2,000 "Benefit" assessment to the Court of Revision. The appellant stated that he should not be responsible for any "Benefit" assessment and believes that the work completed by the County in 1979 should have extended the drain and filled the entire ravine on his property at no cost to him then or in the future. The drainage engineer assessed the appellant's property a total of $3,919.00 for "Benefit" and "Special Benefit" namely because most of the work resides on this property and was specifically inciuded at the request of the appellant during the site meeting. The definition of a "Benefit" assessment under the Drainage Act means the advantages to any lands as will result in a higher market value, or improved appearance, or better control of surface water, or any other advantage relating to the betterment. It is the County's opinion that the drainage engineer was correct in assessing a "Benefit" assessment to the appellant. The Court of Revision held at the Municipality of Bayham on April 17th, 2008 heard evidence from the engineer, County and appellant and decided in the appellant's favour to remove the appellant's benefit assessment and place it upon the County. Staff believes the Court of Revision's decision was inaccurate and an injustice was done to the County. Staff also believes that its case would be successful at an appeal to the Drainage Tribunal. However, the cost of an appeal to the Drainage Tribunal would exceed the value of the assessment, therefore, staff does not recommend proceeding with an appeal. CONCLUSION: The Court of Revision for the Richmond Outlet Drain heard an appeal from the landowner where the drain outlets and who has requested additional work be completed. Although most of the Hamlet of Richmond relies upon this drain outlet, the County has been assessed 70% of the drain's cost and no work is being completed on County property . The Court of Revision decided in the appellant's favour and an additional $2/000 was placed upon the County's assessment. Now, $52/325.00 worth of drainage work is being completed, mostly on the appellant's property, some of which was requested by the appellant, and his total assessment is $1/919.00. The County is contributing $38,250.00 towards this work. Staff believes the Court's decision is unfair and the County would be successful at the Drainage Tribunal. However, the business case does not support appealing the decision and the cost to appeal may exceed the value of the appeal. A decision to appeal to the Drainage Tribunal must be made within 21 days of the Court of Revision and this opportunity will be lost after May 8/ 2008/ therefore this report is presented as a "Matter of Urgency". RECOMMENDATION: THAT the decision of the Court of Revision for the Richmond Outlet Drain in the Municipality of Bayham not be appealed, and; THAT the Court of Revision for the Richmond Outlet Drain in the Municipality of Bayham be forwarded a letter citing the County's displeasure with their decision. Approved for Submission Q/)JJ /.i8A6. Pet r Dutchak Manager, Road Infrastructure Clayton Watters Director, En . Mark G. nald Chief Administrative Icer