The URL can be used to link to this page

May 13, 2008 Agenda ORDERS OF THE DA Y FOR TUESDA Y. MA Y 13. 2008 - 9:00 A.M PAGE # ORDER 1st Meeting Called to Order 2nd Adoption of Minutes - for the meeting of April 22, 2008 3rd Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof 4th Presenting Petitions, Presentations and Delegations DELEGATIONS: (see attachments) 2-6 9:00 a.m. Sandra Datars Bere, Director of Ontario Works and Social Housing St. Thomas-Elgin Ontario Works, to present Child Care Special Report re Fee Subsidy Wait List, and Employment Innovations Fund 7-40 9:15 a.m. Brenda Lammens, Chair, Board of Directors, and Harold Schooley, Chair, Research Committee, Ontario Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association, to present an outline of the Association's initiative and request for financial support. 11 :50 a.m. Bryan Hall, General Manager, Kettle Creek Conservation Authority, to introduce David Pullen the new TreelWeed Inspector to Council 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 90-93 13th Consideration of By-Laws 14th ADJOURNMENT 41 5th 42-57 6th 7th 58-61 62-89 8th NOTICE: May 27,2008 June 10,2008 LUNCH WILL BE PROVIDED 9:00 A.M. - County Council Meeting 9:00 A.M. - County Council Meeting ST. THOIVrAS ST. THOMAS - ELGIN ONTARIO WORKS 423 Talbot Street St. Thomas, Ontario N5P leI TIm CORPOR.'\TIm.lOFTIIE CITY 0[' IReport No. OWEC05-0sl REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Sandra Datars Bere, Director of st. Thomas-Elgin Ontario Works & Social Housing MEETING DATE: May 13, 2008 SUBJECT: Child Care Special Report re Fee Subsidy Wait List Recommendation: THAT: Report OWEC05-08 is received as information. Backqround: Income testing processes were implemented in January 2007 as the mechanism to determine eligibility for child care fee subsidy. Prior to that, municipalities including st. Thomas-Elgin determined eligibility for fee subsidy through client /family needs testing. The needs testing process was based on a family's income and expenses. The new Income Testing process is based on income only and requires the use of the family's Federal Income Tax Notice of Assessment statement. The purpose for the change, made by the Provincial Government, was to allow greater numbers of families to qualify for fee subsidy assistance and to create a simpler application process for those requiring assistance. Report: Since the implementation of Income Testing, there has been a steady increase in the number of parents who qualify as well as a resulting increase in the amount of subsidy being allocated. st. Thomas-Elgin Ontario Works has monitored the increase in subsidy allocated over the last year and became aware of the need for a Wait List by the end of the third quarter of 2007. In February 2008, the department adopted the departmental Wait List Management Protocol that had been created in 2000/01, after the download of the Child Care Program from the province. st. Thomas-Elgin Ontario Works is one of a growing number of municipalities now required to activate their Wait List Management Protocol. Walt List Manaqement Protocol The Wait List Management Protocol implemented February 1,2008, is based on the five approved Service Priorities approved by the Council in office in 2001, written into the 2001 Child Care Plan and reconfirmed in the 2008-2009 Child Care Plan. The service priorities were established in order to manage budgets and fee subsidy wait lists. Page J of2 OWEC03-08 April 22, 2008 The Five Service Priorities 1. The children of parents who must participate 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 purse employment or education. 3. Sole support parent families employed full time or part time. 4. Children with diagnosed special needs. 5. Two parent families where both parents are employed full time [and qualify). Procedures Wait List Management Applicants on the Wait List are prioritized based on their eligibility, date of application and order of service priority. When fee subsidy spaces become available, eligible applicants are contacted according to the date they applied and their service priority order. Presently there are 21 children and 15 families on the Wait List and the number is expected to grow in 2008. Process The process is initiated by a phone call or inquiry from a parent or legal guardian requesting fee subsidy for child care. . The application package is sent out by mail or picked up at the office . The application is returned and received by Ontario Works Child Care Assessment staff and date stamped in the order it is received. . Child Care Assessment Workers review each application form for eligibility. . Applicants that qualify are placed on the Wait List and a letter is sent to the parent or legal guardian advising them of the process. . Applicants that do not qualify for fee subsidy receive a Letter of Ineligibility. . Once a fee subsidy opening is available, an appointment is made with the parent or guardian for a face-to-face interview to verify eligibility. Through careful budgeting and close program monitoring we have been able to ensure that funding is available to as many families as possible based on our allocation funding envelopes. We recognize that many families need assistance with child care fees in our growing community and we are committed to providing this service. Respectfully submitted, 2 nmCORFOR..\TIO:>l OFTI/R CITY 01' ST. THOMAS - ELGIN ONTARIO WORKS 423 Talbot Street st. Thomas, Ontario N5P 1Cl ST. THOMAS IReport No. OWEC06-0S! REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Sandra Datars Bere, Director of Sf. Thomas-Elgin Ontario Works & Social Housing MEETING DATE: May 13, 2008 SUBJECT: Employment Innovations Fund Recommendation: THAT: Report OWEC06-08 is received as information. Backaround: In 2006, Sf. Thomas-Elgin Ontario Works submitted a grant proposal to the Ministry of Community and Social Services (MCSS) for funding under the Employment Innovations Program. The criteria for funding under this grant program included the requirement to implement initiatives that demonstrated a clear focus on longer-term, sustainable employment opportunities for social assistance recipients. In addition eligible proposals needed to include employer sponsorship and involvement and demonstrate innovation in employment development approaches that built on the economic diversity of Ontario. Over several years, st. Thomas-Elgin OW Department had observed a lack of funded opportunities for social assistance recipients to access AZ Truck DriverTraining. A number of our participants were interested in this training but due to the substantial cost and lack of resources, they were unable to access it. Our proposal. initiated in partnership with Forest City Transportation and Ontario Truck Driving School, included training, licensing and employing 15 social assistance recipients in truck driving. The proposal involved participants being screened by OW and Forest City Transportation. It was intended that following intensive interviewing and the required medical, legal and licensing requirements, participants would proceed to the training component and eventually be placed in employment with the assistance of Forest City Transportation. After a review of our proposal by MCSS and extensive interviews with our staff and our employer partners, in early 2007 MCSS approved our proposal with a total allocation of $92,850. Our proposal was one of the 18 successful projects approved out of over 80 submitted from municipalities across Ontario. Report: In January 2007 Forest City Transportation and our office began the first of seven screening sessions to interview potential candidates. Candidates included Ontario Works participants as well as ODSP spouses participating in the Ontario Works Employment Program. During the course of this program, between January 2007 and February 2008 over 100 candidates were screened personally by OW and Forest City Transportation staff. It was clear from early in the screening process that there were many factors that disqualified participants from being successful candidates for this program. While our office was very aware of some of these factors, it was not aware to the extent that these issues would present themselves until intense interviewing and actual testing was completed. Factors included: a substantial number of criminal record checks were not successful a substantial number of drug tests were positive for substances; and a small number of driver's abstracts were not cleared Additionally, transportation became a large expense in this program. Funding for transportation (gas) to and from the Ontario Truck Driving School was considered in the proposal but it became evident that many participants did not have reliable transportation to attend training. In some cases, additional training time was necessary in order to achieve success in the final driving test. This resulted in additional costs. For some participants with criminal charges that were pardonable, our office facilitated the pardon process. These pardons will allow candidates to obtain FAST cards for driving in the USA as well as Canada. Despite challenges, the program has had a very successful outcome. In 2007, six drivers were successful in obtaining their AZ truck driver license and are now all working full time. Four out of the six have a full time job driving truck, one driving a delivery truck and one driving cab. In 2008, two drivers have been trained and are now working full time in the field. An additional four participants are currently in Ontario Truck Driving School, doing well and scheduled to graduate within the month. Conclusions: The Innovation Funding Project has been a valuable learning experience for St. Thomas-Elgin Ontario Works. It has provided the opportunity to partner with training institutions and a respected employer in the trucking industry. It was an excellent opportunity for social assistance recipients to be trained in a profession they might otherwise have no access to. Through the screening process, though a large number of participants were not eligible for the program, they acquired knowledge of the field of truck driving and identified the barriers that prevented them from continuing in the program. Because of this a number of referrals were made to community agencies including Pardons Canada, Ministry of Transportation and Thames Valley Addiction Services, all of which will aid participants in breaking down these barriers. The 12 successful candidates have and will have AZ Truck Driver Training from a reputable school and most will have gained experience in the field of truck driving. Most will be earning a minimum of $18.00 per hour, which will substantially increase their standard of living. Of the six candidates who are now working as truck drivers, 2 all have exited social assistance. We fully anticipate the remaining program candidates to be equally successful with the help of employment supports from this office and Forest City Transportation. fully submitted, ra a ars :!f tor, . Thomas Elgin Ontario Works & Social Housing 3 April 22, 2008 TO: Alan Smith Manager, Economic Development and Tourism County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 5V1 \ FROM: Brenda Lammens, Chair, The Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association (OFVGA) 519-875-4449 Home 519-983-6396 Cell RE: Agenda for Council Meeting The Erie-Agri Food Innovations Initiative Presentation With respect to the above named Project, I would request that the OFVGA be placed on the agenda of your next Council meeting so that we can outline our initiative and request for financial support of this project. The Deputy Minister, Dr. Bruce Archibald, has assigned a senior OMAFRA staff person to the SCOR area to begin the development of a Rural Economic Development Plan in conjunction with Agri-Food, Agri- Tourism and Energy. This project is the one of the first steps in the process and needs support of the SCOR area Councils, in concept and financially. Last week the Norfolk County Council voted to support this Initiative financially designating $20,000 per year for the next four years. I look forward to hearing from you as to the date, time, location and any specifics I should be aware of with respect to presenting to your council. Thank you and I look forward to working with you and moving our communities to the level they are worth of. Blessings Brenda Lammens "-Joice fol' j. '^C ~10 '\,v ~~. '$~ ~ .~ ~ 5 ~ April 22, 2008 Attn: Cephas Panschow, Town of Tillsonburg Mark Cassidy, Township of Norwich Alan Smith, County of Elgin Heather Adams, Town of Aylmer Stephen Evans, County of Middlesex Eric Rowen, Brant County Good Afternoon: Enclosed you \vill find a copy of the application for funding to the Agricultural Adaptation Council (AAC) regarding Erie Agri-Food Innovation Initiative. It is our hope that through this initiative we will be able to identify opportunities for the "SCaR" area and will be able to bring the proper people together to make these opportunities a realty for your municipality. Our information day held on April 8, 2008 at the research station in Norfolk was very successful. You will note that twenty of the growers present signed a letter of SUPPOlt for the project. It is our hope that you and your councilors will endorse this project and will be able to help fund it as well. It is my understanding that Harold Schooley and Brenda Lammens will be in touch with you shortly and will be making a presentation at your various council meetings. Thank you in advance for your attention to this impOltant matter. Sincerely, 4ru~;I( Alt Smith CEO TIJe OFFGA is dedicated to the advancement ajhor/iculture, lI'orking proactivel)' through effectil'c lobbying for the betterment afthe industry alld its producers as a whole through advocacy, research, edt/catioll, cOlJ/1Jl/micatioll, and marketing. The Association has a clear mandate to be the "roice" for its 7,500 Ontario horticultural producers at governmellfal affairs, natiollal and international bodies, and to seek resolution a/issues affecting its membership throughollt the year. 355 Elmira Road North, Unit 105 . Guelph, ON . N1K lS5 .Tel: (519) 763-6160 . F~DC (519) 763-6604 omm.ofvga.org I' , , i: \ I , 1 ! ! l.l I . , '-Joice fOr If, ;:yf(, . - 0" , 6 <'" .g ~ '1.'1 ~ i;) ~ Agricultural Adaptation Council Submitted April 15, 2008 Funded by: Canada I.. Agriculture and Agriculture et Agri-Food Canada Agroalimentaire Canada CanAdvance Application For The Erie Agri-Food Innovations Initiative led by the OFVGA Contents Part I Applicant Information 3 Part II Privacy and Confidentiality 5 Part III Project Summary 6 Part IV Project Oescrlption 7 Questions and Answers 12 Schedule A - Pillar 1 14 Appendix A - List of Regional Council Contacts 16 Appendix B - April B Information and Update Session Summary 17 Appendix C - Letters of Support 19 Part V Milestones Performance V Part VI Yearly Milestone Budget (4 Years Maximum) VI Part VII Budget By Category For All Years VII Before submitting the application, please check to ensure you have inCluded: o A signed confidentiality agreement (Part II of the application) o Milestone pertormance and budget (Part V, VI & VII in the Excel document) o An application submitted in an electronic version to info@adaDtcouncil.ora o A cheque for $100.00 payable to the Aaricultural Adaotation Council o A letter from your Chairperson (if applicable) o A copy of your most recent financial statementsl annual report o Letters of support o Letters confirming cash or in-kind from partnerslcontributors ~):::'{!;' C.:2:,,,i'ls.-: .:..lilfnr:' Agrl-Food Innovations Initiallve led by the OFVGA 2 Name of Applicant: Contact Name: Position: Address: City: Phone: Web Address: ~Agricultural Adaptation Council CanAdvance Program Application PMT I~APPI..ICANTI~F()RMAT!C:)N Ontario Fruit & Vegetable Growers' Association Art Smith For AAe Use Only Project Number: CEO Emall: artsmlth@ofvga.org Unit lOS, 355 Elmira Road North Guelph Postal Code: N1K 155 County: Wellington 519-763-6160 Fax: 519-763-6604 1. OMAFRA 2. University of Guelph 3. Ontario Flue-Cured Tobacco Growers' Marketing Board 4. Vineland Research & Innovation Centre Inc. 5. Alliance of Ontario Food Processors 6. Ontario Agri~Food Technologies www.ofve-a.ore: Dr. Bruce Archibald, Deputy Minister 1 Stone Road West, Guelph, ON, N1G 4Y2 Bruce.archlbald@)ontario.ca (416) 326-3101 Dr. Rene Van Acker, Chair, Department of Plant Agriculture, Crop .science Building, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2Wl Emall: vanacker{@uogueloh.ca Phone: (519) 824-4120 exl 53386 Chris Van Paassen, Director District 10 4 Elm Street, P.O. Box 70, Tlllsonburg, Ontario, N4G 4H4 PHONE: (519) 428.0448 $ 10,000 $500 $ 10,000 $ 20,000 $ 10,000 $ 200,000 Please complete below: (Please mark with an "X" ) Dr. Jim Brandle, CEO,lIm.brandle(a)vineland.ontarlo.ca Tel: (905) 562-0320 ext. 757 4890 Victoria Avenue North Uncoln, Ontario, Canada, lOR 2EO Jane Graham, Executive Director 519-767-5599 7660 Mill Road, Guelph Ontario N1H 611 (519) 767-5599 aillance(<jlaofp.ca Gord Surgeoner, President 1 Stone Road West, 1st Floor Guelph, Ontario N1G 4Y2 Phone: (519) 826-4195 Emall: info@oaft.org 7. SCOR Municipalities listed separately in Appendix A CanAdvance Application For The Erie Agrl-Food Innovations Initiative led by the OFVGA 3 Please Indicate your 0 Canadian for-profit 0 Government (0 provincial 0 municipal) organization's legal status IBl Canadian Not-for-profit 0 Individual 0 Agricultural Producer 0 Processor Please Indicate what best IBl Industry Association/Group 0 Distributor describes your organization's 0 Community Group 0 Retailer function 0 Cooperative 0 Service Provider 0 Educational Institution (Identify): 0 Food Service Provider ..... - . Please proviclea~rief profile clt your orgal1i;zation . . (l.e.\histl;l.iy;ljoar~li'r!eT~ershIP. 'WTberOf employee~. mand~te,~~~:) . , .. ...., .. . . Established 149 years ago . Not-for-profit, nationally recognized association . The "voice" of Ontario's fruit, vegetable, and greenhouse producers . Recognized by both the provincial and federal governments as acting for the horticultural Industry . Official representative for Ontario to national and International bodies . ...... ... The OFVGA Is dedicated to the advancement of horticulture, working proactively through effective lobbying for the betterment of the industry and Its producers as a whole through advocacy, research, education, communication, and marketing . Comprised of 27 member organizations representing more than 7,500 producers throughout the province Members of local branch associations, marketing boards, commissions, and affiliated organizations The OFVGA maintains a provincial focus and assists addressing national concerns Representation on boards, associations, and organizations lobbying and liaison with government officials Directing Its attention towards Issues as Indicated by Its board of directors Currently has a full-time staff of Sled by Art Smith (CEO) who reports to the board of directors . . . . . . CanAdvanee Application For The Erie Agrl-Food Innovations Initiative led by the OFVGA 4 1. Describe the project: Erie Agrl-Food Innovations Initiative is a broadly supported regionai effort to transform the future of agricuiture In the five county region of Ontario known as SCOR, South Central Ontario Region, and comprising the counties of Norfoik, Middlesex, Elgin, Oxford and Brant. A number of factors have given rise to the need for an intensive effort to find sustainable alternatives to crops traditionally grown in this region. To provide this focus, the project proposes to engage a full-time position, the Director of Innovation and Commercialization, to aggressively seek out opportunities for agriculture In this region and match them with growers' capacity and, where necessary, assist in attracting investment financing. 2. List the project objectives - lnvestors: Sources of Capital ' , ,'-' . ~ ; Erie Agri- Food Innovations Director Licenses Markets The primary role of this project is to serve as the pivot In the centre to bring opportunities to growers and growers to opportunities. The opportunities will arise from sources such as research Institutions and commercial enterprises, especially those that are close to the consumer and at the market~end of the value chain. Because certain of these opportunities may be of a scale that requires Significant investment capital, the Director will also play an important role In attracting investment capital to worthy ventures. Quantified project outcomes will be established at the time that position is hired as part of the performance but Is expected to Include such measures as: (Suggested cumulative targets by the end of year 4 are indicated In parentheses and are subject to adjustment) . The value of new investment generated in the agrl-food sector In SCOR as a result of this initiative ($25 million) . The number of acres affected in terms of new crops, licensing agreements, new technologies, etc. (10,000 acres) . The number of participating farm enterprises (100) . The long-term farmgate value of new crops produced ($10 million) . The economic gains from increased processing of agrlcuitural crops In SCOR (i.e. Incremental value-added after the farmgate) ($10 million) . The Increased value of exports ($S million) . The number of leads for opportunities generated and investigated (25 leads per year, 10 serious Investigations per year) . The number of deals concluded (16) 3. Collaboration Is strongly encouraged. Will this position be shared between two or more iegal entities? If so, which entity will be the champion for the project? The champion for the project will be the Ontario Fruit & Vegetable Growers' Association and the growers it represents. As indicated on p. 3 and in the project budget, there are many partners contributing to this project. The project will have a Steering Committee, made up of representatives from the project partners, by which they will have input into the project and regular opportunities to receive updates from the individual who is hired for the position. in this way, they will have assurance of accountability for their Investment In the project. CanAdvance Application For The Erie Agri~Food Innovations Initiative led by the OFVGA 7 4. List the activities that will help achieve the project objectives The main budgetary item reiates to engaging a Director of Innovation and Commercialization, the project leader, under a four year contract to: 1. Seek out and follow-up incoming ieads for innovation In horticulture and prioritize leads, according to criteria such as the economic benefit and feasibility of implementation, with a view to attracting Investment and making good deals happen 2. Liaise with the downstream market, In processing and fresh food and In blo-economy applications for agriculture beyond food, to understand the market's needs, Identify opportunities for innovation, and make connections with growers 3. Find market opportunities for research and Innovation represented by discoveries made by scientists at the University of Guelph and other national and international research institutions such as Vineland Research & Innovation Centre Inc. and federal research sites 4. Understand grower needs and capacities and to contribute a culture in which growers are keen to embrace Innovation S. Oversee licensing agreements for new technology and be accountable for the commercialization success of the Intellectual property so licensed 6. Match sources of investment capital with Individual venture requirements In the first year of the Director's mandate, she/he wlli report to the CEO of the OFVGA and wlli be accountable to the Project Steering Committee. This key Individual will be required to develop a complete strategiC plan, In consultation with the Steering Committee and those stakeholders It represents, which Identifies: (a) the business model (function) and the ideal organizational structure to best deliver it (form)'; (b) tangible deliverables that can be expected In terms of commercialization success and time-frames; (c) scope of the work (I.e. how broadly defined wlli horticulture be, what crops wlli receive priority and why); (d) tactics for engaging growers to respond to and Invest In Innovative technologies Inciuding how to most effectively Inform growers, communicate opportunities and obtain commitments 5. Provide job description including: description of the role, Job status (FT, PT, contract), location (office, road, home office), salary range' (benefits, no benefits), qualifications, and candidates demonstrated skills and abilities. The pOSition will be offered as one year renewable contract for four years. legally, the position is expected to be an employee of the OFVGA as opposed to an independent contractor, as defined in Interpretation Bulletins of the Canada Revenue Agency. The distinction is Important because It imposes on the employer the responsibility to withhold deductions at source. The position is full- time and Is expected to be based In Simcoe at the Agricultural Research station there with frequent travel to Guelph. The salary range is expected to be in the $125,000 to $150,000 range, inciusive of benefits as negotiated with the successful candidate. The position wlli be filled by open competition. The job description, as developed for a potential job advertisement, follows: DIRECTOR OF INNOVATION AND COMMERCIALIZATION. The Ontario Fruit & Vegetable Growers' Association Is the iead project partner In a broad alliance of public and private sector organizations driving the Erie Agri.Food Innovations Initiative. This new initiative has a pivotal role to play In transforming the shape of agriculture In the five county area of Ontario consisting of Norfolk, Elgin, Brant, Oxford and Middlesex counties. The initiative is seeking a dynamic leader to direct a sustained effort to effect transformation In this rural region. The Director must be adept at working with diverse groups, Indudlng individual grower-entrepreneurs, food processors, firms engaged In the blo- economy, levels of government and grower organizations. Drawing on excellent communication and presentation skills, the Director will be responsible for building and connecting grower capacity for Innovation with opportunities for new crops and ways to add value to existing crops. Driven by the challenge of bringing new opportunity to agricultural producers and new Investment to the Region, the successful candidate will demonstrate the following competencies: .1 . a track record of performance demonstrating the ability to set and meet quantifiable goals . strategic acumen to assess 'the big picture' and determine priorities accordingly . market savvy In understanding trends and anticipating change before it happens . people skill/emotional intelligence in relating to the needs of grassroots producers and the organizations which represent them I This section has been deliberately worded to allow the possibility of entering into a relationship with PICO, the Okanagan Plant Improvement Company Ltd. as one possible option to be Investigated by the champion. CanAdvance Application For The Erie Agri-Food Innovations InlUat/ve led by the OFVGA 8 . the ability to work with and through others to achieve results . good business judgment in assessing risks, potential returns, and human capitai . integrity and transparency in maintaining accountability for results . excellent negotiating skllis In reaching and documenting agreement on win/win outcomes . ability to understand technical issues in order to ask 'the right questions' and liaise comfortably with experts In science, engineering and legal matters including Intellectual property Previous experience in the bio-economy and/or agricultural sector would be an asset. Candidates with experience In other economic sectors will also be considered. 6. BeneftUPublic Good: a) Describe the need to undertake the project and explain why It Is a priority for the sector. The need for the project is driven by the combination of factors cited in section (1) that has created an urgent requirement for growers in the target region to find alternative crops that have the prospect of sustainability weli into the future. There Is a danger that if growers believe that one single crop is the 'silver buliel' to solve their issues, and too many growers embrace that crop, the crop will be In surplus supply and depress prices for all growers. Therefore, there Is a very strong need to manage growth in alternatives responsibly, In line with market demand. To the extent that growers can contribute to market demand by their own initiative, the Director of Innovation and Commercialization will be expected to work with them on opening new markets and expanding access to existing markets. There is also a strong need to seek to add vaiue to commodities locally so that the maximum economic benefit Is obtained for this part of rural Ontario in terms of jobs retained and created. One of the benefits from adding value is to provide producers with an enhanced return. The project Is a high priority because of the depressed state of agriculture In parts of SCaR as a result of the reduction in tobacco production and intense global competition putting pressure on prices for many other commodities traditionally grown in SCaR. b) Does the project have potential benefits to other provinces or at a national level? If so, explain how the project wllllmpact beyond Ontario. While there are aspects of the model that will be implemented that could be transferable to other regions of Ontario and other provinces, there are a number of factors in SCaR, including the traditional importance of tobacco as a crop, that make the needs of this target region unique. The Great Sand Plain itself, a large fertile tract of land on the north shore of lake Erie, has excellent soil for many crops but requires irrigation in view of the drainage properties of sandy soil. The target region Is the dominant source of supply for all of Canada for certain crops: In this way, the project will have national benefits, by contributing to the continuance of this region as a key production sector for Canada and supporting maintaining a positive baiance of trade in these crop categories. c) Have you contacted other provincial/territorial sectoral groups? If so, please provide the contact name. CanAdvance Application For The Erie Agri-Food Innovations Initiative led by the OFVGA 9 No. 7. List the short-and long-term results (outcomes) expected from this project: d) Short-term results: The short term results are those expected during the term of the project. They Include: . A specific 'go to' address and responsive project leader to follow-up on leads and drive projects forward to the point of Implementation Sustained communication marketing the many benefits of SCaR as a primary agricultural region In order to attract external technology transfer and Investment and encourage entrepreneurial Initiative within SCaR Positive facts on the ground spawned as a result of this project that will contribute to transforming the agricultural future of SCaR, raising grower incomes and moraie and attracting young people to the sector . . e) Long-term results: The long term results are those that occur after the project funding ends or In parallel with it: . The transformation of SCaR as a key destination for Investment In agricultural enterprises at both the farmgate and post farmgate level of the value chain . The development of a bigger vision for agriculture In SCaR Including the revitalization of the research stations at Simcoe and Deihl as thriving centres for Innovation . This project Is viewed as the first building block In a larger vision In which the enthusiasm of the project leader and the success of the project is expected to be influential In contributing to the development of other sectors of the economy 8. How will this project/position be economically viable and self-sustaining after the funding period? . A key focus of the position is to Investigate and Implement licensing opportunities In which there Is revenue recapture that can be used to fund the position, at least In part The long term vision Is that the position will be self-funded by a modest share of the economic benefits and gains made - the project leader will need to determine the most effective ways of earning revenue from license agreements, investment commissions, etc. without compromising the neutrality and Integrity of the role As the SCaR Initiative gains momentum over the next four years, It Is highly probable that OMAFRA and/or other Ministries of the government of Ontario and the combined municipal governments may choose to share a larger stake in the position's costs, to the extent that It has not become self-funded, as a result of the Increased tax base they have gained through the initiatives of the project . . 9. Audience: Who and how many do you expect the project to reach? (quantify your response) In SCaR, recent statistics Indicate that there are 12,450 farm operators (average age = 53 years) and 8,347 farms. While not every single one of these farm operations will be dlrectiy impacted by this project, it Is the Intent of the project to reach at least 10% of them directly, through ongoing communication tools such as the Webslte to be created and e-bulletlns, farm visits and regional 'town hall' meetings that the project leader will organize as necessary. In addition to the farm community, the project will embrace all five municipal governments, both senior levels of government, and the downstream parts of the agricultural value chain including grocery retailers, food service distributors and blo-economy users. CanAdvance Application For The Ene Agrl-Food Innovations Initiative led by the OFVGA 10 3. Does the project complement the Agricultural Polley Framework (APF)? If so, please Indicate which category: o Food Safety and Food Quality Ii'! Science and Innovation o Environment Ii'! Renewal CanAdvance Application For The Erie Agrl.Food Innovations Initiative led by the OFVGA 15 APPENDIX A List of Municipal Council Contacts NORFOLK MIDDLESEX Clark Hoskin Manager, Tourism ft Economic Development Norfolk County 30 Peel Street Simcoe ON N3Y 1 R9 Email: c1ark.hoskin@norfolkcountv.ca Stephen Evans Director of Planning ft Economic Development County of Middlesex 399 Ridout St N London ON N6A 2P1 Email: sevans@countv.middlesex.on.ca OXFORD BRANT Cephas Panschow Development Commissioner Town of Tillsonburg 200 Broadway, 2nd Floor Tillsonburg ON N4G 5A? Email: coanschow@tillsonburg.ca Eric Rowen Manager, Economic Development ft Tourism Brant County 66 Grand River Street N. Paris ON N3L 2M2 Email: eric.rowen@brant.ca Mark Cassidy Economic Development Officer Township of Norwich 210 Main St E, P.O. Box 100 Otterville ON NOJ 1 RO Email: mcassidv@two.norwich.on.ca ELGIN Alan Smith Manager, Economic Development and Tourism County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas ON N5R 5V1 Email: asmith@elgin-countv.on.ca Heather Adams Administrator and EDO Town of Aylmer 46 Talbot Street West Aylmer ON N5H 1 J? Email: hadams@town.avlmer.on.ca Can.A..dvance Application For The Erie Agrl.Food Innovations Initiative led by the OFVGA 16 APPENDIX B Information and Update Session Erie Agri-Food Innovations Project On Tuesday, April 8, 2008, Deputy Minister Bruce Archibald joined over 6S invited guests who attended the information and update session regarding the progress to date with the development of the Erie Agri-Food Innovations Project for the South Central Ontario Region (SCOR). This event took place at the Simcoe Research Station and was hosted by the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers' Association. Key members of municipal and provincial governments, research institutions, and industry stakeholders participated at this session when information regarding how innovation and commercialization of horticulture opportunities in this region, and in other regions across Ontario, have been envisioned. The sign-In process documented that of the 6S pius In attendance 2S were Industry stakeholders (farmers) from the region. As a component of this presentation, those present were also requested to sign a generic letter of support for this project and this document inclusive of 20 signatures follows. CanAdvance Application For The Erie Agri.Food Innovations Initiative led by the OFVGA 17 Appendix B (Continued) Information and Update Session Erie Agrl-Food Innovations Project Above, Denton Hoffman addresses those in attendance at the information and update session of the Erie Agrl-Food Innovations Project. Brenda Lammens acted as the MC for this presentation and her opening remarks were followed by a welcome from Dennis Travale, Mayor of Norfolk County. Harold Schooley, Clark Hoskin, Dr. Frank Ingratta, James Farrar, and Art Smith also provided information through presentations during this session. Once the Deputy Minister addressed the group, Brenda extended an invitation for questions and answers. CanAdvance Application For The Erie Agrl~Food Innovations Initiative led by the OFVGA 18 APPENDIX C - Letters of Support letters of Support Erie Agrl-Food Innovations Project Ontario Asparagus Growers Marketing Board (April 8, 2008) from Denton Hoffman Ontario Ginseng Growers Association (April 8, 2008) from Denton Hoffman Norfolk Fruit Growers' Association (April 10, 2008) from Thomas M. O'Neill Ontario Apple Growers (April 11, 2008) from Kelly Oceran Norfolk Federation of Agriculture (April 11, 2008) from Sheila White Ontario Tender Fruit Producers' Marketing Board (April 14, 2008) from Len Troup Vlneland Research and Innovation Center (April 14, 2008) from William J. Ingratta CanAdvance Application For The Erie Agrl-Food Innovations Initiative led by the OFVGA 19 Agricultural +Adaptation Council C,, .' .... " '.. ,1I:'d'" · . \ T ;-.: ~!. ." ....;anll. 'VaRCe PROGRAM Program Milestone & Budget Forms 1 ) PART V - Milestone Performance 2) PART VI - Milestone Budget 3) PART VII- Budget by Category September. 2008 The awareness of the new position in the community Competent individual hired to undertake this important responsibnity; an announcement of the position being filled is made and the new Director begins actively networking with growers and other key stakeholders Recruit the Director of Innovation and Commercialization position One December. 2008 nitialleads are reviewed and action steps pianned and executed; initial Specific project in the first year is to communication materials are undertake an investigation of the released to generate additional leads feasibility of an IOF fine for freezing and build relationships with growers fruits and vegetables Build initial network of contacts and support Two March, 2009 Strategic plan approved by the Steering Committee of the project and the Board of the OFVGA This key individual will be required to develop a complete strategic plan, in consultation with the Steering Committee and those stakeholders it represents Develop a strategic plan with performance indicators for the project Three June,2009 Opportunities fitting criteria for moving forward are communicated to Success will be measured by the level stakeholders; arrangements for pilot of take-.up of sustainable opportunities scale activities are made where and the economic contribution which appropriate; and agre~":,en~ for they make to growers and the rural larger scale commerclallzatlon are communities in which they live put in place when circumstances are favourable Relentlessly search out opportunities Four End of each calendar quarter Success will be measured by the level of take-.up of sustainable opportunities and the economic contnbution which they make to growers and the rural communities in which they live Opportunities fitting criteria for moving forward are communicated to stakeholders; arrangements for pilot scale activities are made where appropriate; and agreements for larger scale commercialization are put in place when circumstances are favourable Relentlessly search out opportunities Five - Fifteen June. 2012 The Director of Innovation and The overall contribution to the Commercialization is recognized as economic well--being of growers in the 'go to' contact by many research SCOR made by this project and the institutions and d~wns~eam value ability for it to be sustained without chain partners while berng looked to further direct grant support by growers for sources of opportunity Assessment of the position's contribution Sixteen Schedule V, p. 2 Erie Agrl-Food Innovations Initiative GanAdvance Appncatlon 10,000 30,000 63,750 30,002- o 5,000 2.500 2- 3,125 o 10,000 3,125 3,710 1,855 44,978' 22.257 2,318 7,419 3.125 3,125 S,OOO 2,500 3.710 1,855 3,710 2,318 5,000 3,125 10-,90Q o 3,12S 58,750 30,002- o 5,000 2.500 7.500 3,125 20,002- o 3.125! 71,250 30.00Q o 5,000 2,500 7,500 3,125 20,OOQ o 3,710 1,855 5.564 2.318 346 ~ 2- 1,383 - - 8,386 - 4,150 - --'!. - 692 - 346 - ~ - 432 , 10,000 - - - - 6 12 10000 4.150 0 692 346 1,037 432 20,000 6,657 20,000 4,150 0 692 346 1,037 432 - 20,000 599 299 374 7,261 3,593 --2. 599 299 598 374 1.198 Two- 3,125 3,125 Secretarial roJects Promotion (webslte. etc.' Lega! & other professional fees for 33.850 22,257 35.7041 22.257 3,710 1,855 5,564 2,318 3.125 3...:125 5.463 3,593 o 599 299 899 374 5.7641 3,593 o 599 299 899 374 Secretarial' Sub~Total Resource Person' Recruiting Cost Travel & Communication Costs Promotion (webslte. etc.) Legal & other professional fees fOI Rent and facmtles Three- Contract rejects Resource Persol Recruiting Cost Travel & Communication Costs Promotion (webslte, etc.) rofessional fees fOI Four- 3.125! 35.704 71,250 i;lY:Ci}391'!iO';2'36 ~Filh1':"'S\':;;>?,265rd,(i'O' 3,125 _"'AW"!>""~I""\VI\'r132;5'20,~1 ,f'_",'illi,.,"<')('1",,_~,.; 0 Secretarial Schedulo VI p. 3 ErtoAgrl-Foodlnnovatlonslnltiatlvo ConAdl/anca Appllcatlon S,OOO 1,250 6.250 3,125 12,500 ---" ~ 64,375 3,710 927 4.637 2.318 692 173 865 432 599 150 748 374 Flve- 32,50Q o SchaduloVlp.4 S,OOO 1,250 6,250 3,125 12,500 ------0 3,750 64,375 32.500 ----0 5,000 1,250 6,250 3,125 12,50Q o 3,750 64.375 32,500 ------0 5,000 1,250 6,250 3,125 12,500 ------0 3,750 64,375 ",257,:500 35.704 24,112 3.710 927 4.637 2.318 ~ 3,750 12,500 SOO 12,500 6,658 4,496 692 173 86S 432 5,763 3,892 S99 150 748 374 Is n, Secretarla] Under Contract Is Six- 35,704 24,112 3,7S0 3,750 12,500 6.658 4,496 5,763 3,892 Secretarial 3,710 927 4,637 2.318 12,500 692 173 86S 432 S99 150 748 374 Under Contract ro/acts Is Sala' Promotion (webslte. etc. Legal & other professional Rent and fac11ltles Consulting Contracts For Specific Anal' Start.up Minor Ca ltal Administrative Support (Accountln~fP: Sub-Total I fees 101 Seven 3,750 3,750 Secretarlal 35,704 24,112 3,710 927 4,637 2,318 12,500 12,500 6.658 4,496 692 173 865 432 5,763 3.892 599 150 748 374 Resource Person's Salary Under Contract Recruiting Cost Travel & Communication Costs Promotion (webslte, etc.) ~al & other professional fees for projects Rent and facilities Consulting Contracts For SpecIflc Analysis Start-up Minor Capital Administrative Support (Accounting!Payrol1 Eight~ 35.704 \1421816 3.750 3.750 ,tS:~OO'1 12,500 50iOOO:1 6,658 :26;~2;1 ErIoAgr/.FoodtnnovatlonslnltiDtlve 5,763 23[~521 Secretarial 'Totali:For:,Y:ear.'21 Su!)"Total CanAdvanco Appllcalkm Schedule VI p. 5 35,000 o 6,250 1..250 6,250 3,750 12,500 o 4,375 69,375 35,000 o 6,250 1..250 6..250 3,750 12,500 o 4,3751 6U75! 35,0001 0, 6:2501 1250' 6:2501 """3.7501 12,500! 0' 4,375' 69,375 35,000 -----0 6,250 1,250 6,250 3,750 12,500 -01 4,3751 69.375 ';>i\277;j'500" 4.637 927 4,637 2,782 4,375 4,375 38,950 25,967 4,637 927 4,637 2,782 4,375 4,37S 38,950 25,967 4.637 927 4,637 2,782 4,375 4,375 38,950 25.9671 -d 4,637' 927 4.637 2,782 12.500 ~,841 0 - 865 173 _ 865 _ 519 12,500 1,263 12,500 4,841 865 173 865 519 12,500 7,263 12,500 4,841 865 173 865 519 12,500 7,263 12,SOO 4,841 865 173 86S 519 o 6,287 4,191 749 150 748 449 6,287 4,191 749 150 748 449 Secretarial Resource Person's Salary Under Recruitlng Cost Travel & CommunIcation Costs Promotion (webslte, etc.) Legal & other professional fees for projects Rent and faClTrtles ConsultlnQ Contracts For Specif1c Analysl~ start-up Minor Capital _ Administrative Support (Accountin! 11 rojects Contract Eleven, Ten- 6,287 4.191 749 150 748 449 Secretarial Under Contract rojects Sub-Total Twelve-. 38,950 J:^155~80D' ~,' 4,375 4,375 17;SOO Y~~;J)\~:' 12,500 ~~5D~000 7,263i '~0'~'29~0521.j(\~7'",''''''' ErloAgrl-<Foodlnnovollonslnltlative ;1<,:;"", 6,2871 ,\)~0~t'i025i148'1 Secretarial "'itrotal"'For";Ye'a'ti3 CanAdvtlncc AppllcoUon 37,SOO o 7,SOO 1,2S0 7,SOO 3,7S0 12,sool ~ S,OOO! 75,0001 37,SOO! 01 7,SOO: 1,250' 7,sool 3,7S0! 12.5001 ~ 5.000 75.000 37,SOO ---0 7,500' 1,250! 7,500 3,750 12,SOO' ---0 S,OOO 75,000 37,SOO ---0 7,500 1.250 7,500 3,750 12,500 5,oo~1 75,000' 300iOOOl 4,492. 5,187 898 1,037 5,564 150 173 927 899 1,037 S,564 449 519 2,782 - 12,500 - - 5,000 6,888 7,953 12,500 5,000 42.6591 4,492 5,187 - - 27,822 898 1,037 - - 150 173 - - 899 1.037 - - 449 519 - - 12,500 - - - - - 5,000 6,888 7.953 12,500 5,000 4.492 5,187 - - 898 1,037 - - 150 173 - - 899 1,037 - - 449 519 - - 12,500 - - - - - 5,000 - 6,888 7.9531 12,500 5,000 42]59 4,492 5,187! - - 27,822 1 898 1,037 - - 5,564 150 173 - - 927 899 1,037 - - S,564 449 519 - - 2,782 12,500 - - - - - S,OOO 6,888 "f.9S3 12,500 s:ooo 42,659 <27',552 -iF:/' 31"T8'1i '50000 ;) ',', ",2~':;;"i\1~ 4 8 12 $100-,_000 $115.500 $200-,_000 $65._000 $619,500 's Salary Under Contract :atlon Costs ,etc,) ;slonal fees for projects :s For Specific Analysis tal )Crt (AccountlnQIPayroll, Secretarial Salary Under Contract :atlon Costs ,etc.) ssional fees for projects :s For Specific Analysis tal )Ort (AccountlnglPayroll, Secretarial Salary Under Contract t1onCosts ~tc.) ,Ional fees for projects For Specific Analysis ,I ,11 (AccountlnQlPavroll, Secretarial aJary Under Contract Secretarial .\"".;:,.:TtSt8I.1For,:Year:;.t;' RoundlnQ adJustment rojects Is cIflcAnal' feesfo! Thirteen- - Fourteen- Sub-Total Fifteen. - ~ $1!100,900 SchoouloVlp.6 ErioAgr\-FoodlnnovatJonslnll1at1vo Total ProJect Costl "Nato: Appllconfs undisclosed OXPOn3OS will not bo reimbursed by Me Tho rounding adjustment arises becaU$o (II1OC1ltion3 wero made to tho neorest dollllt. CanAdvan.::o Application Cash Contributions In-Kind Contributions Expense Type Applicant Non-Municipal Municipal Applicant CanAdvance Totai Project Partner Costs - - - - 1. Resource Person's Salary Under Contract 62,275 71,928 385,796 520,000 ---~--_._.~_._-_..- ...---....-..-- .. _._-_._~ -'--~~---- ,-- --_.. .-.... ---'._- ----~~--- 2. Recruiting Cost 3,593 4,150 22.257 30,000 ----~._.- __ - - ______.w___..._ _.__._____ __n_n_'_____ w____.. _... .-------- ----_.._---~-- 3. Travel & Communication Costs 11,377 13,141 70.482 95,000 ..__...n._.u._._.._... _"_ -- ----------.. -'-- -,---- .--..- ..--... --'----- --, .--...--..-----..-- 4. Promotion (website, etc.) 2,994 3.458 18,548 25,000 _____n -- . 0_" ----..- -- ----- - --_._~..- . ________o.n_ .. _.. '.0' _.._____,__ 5. Legal & other professional fees for projects 11,976 13,832 74,192 100,000 .. ___n.__ __._0 6. Rent and facilities 6,587 7,608 40,805 55,000 ------.-...- __ n_.._n__._ _ __ _____.,_________. --.-...-.-"-...- -~--~-~_.~ --~._.~.- --~- -- ....m....m._ 7. Consulting Contracts For Specific Analysis 200,1 200,000 ~----'.__.- . -------~- .-.--.- ~ ~'--- 8, Start-up Minor Capital 1,198 1,383 7.419 10,000 -~----~-~----~~.- ~._.- .--. ----~ __~ _..__.... .n.....__ ...-..-... ~_...._. 9, Administrative Support (Accounting/Payroll, 65,000 65,000 - ~... _.~-- - -- ---_.~_... ....-..... ~_.----- ~ - --~ ~ - .. ...-.-- ---~.- -~'--~-"- ....- .._----~.- .-.-.. .--.- - ._--_..._.._._..__..~- --.--_.- ---- -... .....- --.-------.- 0 - - - Total Project Costl $100,000 $115,500 $200,000 $65,000 $619,5001 $1,100,000 CanAdvance Application Erie Agri~Food Innovations Initiative Schedule Vl1, p. 7 .... Glnsengontari~ OnUtrTO Ginseng Growettl Association 1263 Bh,lQllne Rd., Box 587 $Imcoe. ON N3Y 4N5 P: 619-42$.104S F: 519-<'2a-9087 April 8, 2008 Mr. Kim Tmnbull, Chair Agricultural Adaptation Council Ontario AgriCentre 100 Stone Road West, Suite 103 Guelph, ON, NIG SL3 Re: Growing Capacity Initiative Project Proposal entitled Erie Agri-Food Innovations Initiative Dear Mr. Turnbull. The Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers' Association (OFVOA) has communicated to us the vision and goals for the Erie Aari-Food Innovatinns Initiative. We are keen to see this Ini~tive aPproved for funding by the Agricultural Adaptation Council and implemented. We believe that it is well aligned with the published goals of the Growing Capacity Initiative Request for Proposals and stands to make II very significant contribution to the transformation of agriculture in Ontario. . The delt"berate, intensive focus thaI thisI:niti3tive proposes to 'bring on allraoting investment for ways to add value to crops that grow well on our rich Soils while matching growers' capacity for innovation with market opportunities is precisely what we need at this time. As a stakeholder that will be affected by the excellent work proposed for this Initiative, it has our full support and commitment. We look forward to coopemting in enabling positive development to. occur that will serve our growers and other stakeholders. We believe that this Initiative can lay a fO\mdation that will, e.ndure for the benefit~fthe coming genemtion and . will contribute to the retentlo, of our talepted youth in agri.fQQd and related enterp~. ~ :... ~ ~ 1; tI ;&Tt.!ll$'iEt-I';U Ontiuio Asparagus-Growers' Mart<Btlllg Board r=- _ ""'"-._. BoxS81.128l UlueUnC"Rd. Slm.... On my 4N5 P: ~19-426-7529 F;SI9426-'Xl87 dhoffinan@aspginseng.ca April 8, 2008 Mr. Kim TumbulI, Chair Agricultural Adaptation Council Ontario AgriCentre 100 Stone Road West, Suite 103 Guelph, ON, NlG 5L3 Ro: Growinl? Capacity Initiative Project Proposal entitled Erie Agri-Food Innovations Initiative Dear Mr. Turnbull, The Ontario Froit and Vegetable Growers' Association (OFVGA) has communicated to us the vision and goals for the Erie Agri-Food Innovations Initiative. We are keen to see this Initiative approved for funding by the Agricultural Adaptation Council and implemented. We believe that it is well aligned with the published goals of the Growing Capacity InitiaJive Request for Proposals and stands to make a very significant contribution to the transformation of agriculture in Ontario. The deliberate, intensive focus that this Initiative proposes to bring on attracting investment . for ways to add value to orops that grow weli on our rich soils while matching growers' capacity for innovation with market opportunities is precisely what we need at this time. As a stakeholder that will be affected by the excellent work proposed for this Initiative, it has our full support and commitment. We look forward to cooperating in enabling positive development to occur that will'lerve our growers and other stakeholders. We believe that . this Initiative can lay a foundation that will endure for the benefit of the corning genemtion and wi\I con~te to the tention of our talented youth in agri.food l\lld relatedenterpriscs. Yours s~ oP~, General ager I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I ONTARIO APPLE GROWERS P.O. Box 100. Vlneland Staflon. Ontarto LOR 2EO Emall: kclcetan@onapples;com Phone:905-688-0990Ext.241 Fax:.905-688-5915 www.onapples;com April 11, 2008 Mr. Kim Turnbull . Chair Agricultural Adaptation Council Ontario AgriCentre 100'Stone Road West, Suite 103 Guelph, ON N1G5l3 Re: Growing Gapacitylhltiatilie Proj~ctj:1r(jposaIentUred: "Erie Agrl.Pooq limoyatlons fnmatlve;" pe.ar'Mr. Turnbull, Tl1eOnfario. Fruitan~VEl~etable G:roWEln>' Assp~la.tJim (OFVGA5:bas communicated to 4~.:thevrslon anclgol'ilsfO,ttl,te Etie.Agti"F()q41(i.~ovati~lli.$.lnWa~g, theOritario Apple Gi'9W;ersare very suppq)1IY$.ofthe projecti~:n.~; fj'Qpe to se.e it ap!?rovedfor fundin9'by: the AgrtculturaLAdaptatiQl1 CounciI.,ancHmpfarnented. We I)'elteve.that it is: WeU'EjligQatlwlth thagoalsof'th'$ Gir;iwJng.(J'$.litfiillY liji.(i?tlve Request 'lotP+oposals,and$tand$Jo mak.e- aveiyslgrijf(\laht<<intrlbutii:mto;tb.~iransformati(m of <<gfictilture in OntarlQ. Tij~irttense focus tili;{tWj~ p,mjec,tQff$.:($; bY'iittf~Qtihg inV~$fmj:lntiQt'viU(leaddeQ p(Q:duPts and cropswhf(ematchinggroWen;f ~a,pa(ilWfotinnovat[()n'with market oPPOi1VJ:1ltie$ls \1~W/;tJ.\iph !jel;ltledil) ~9ricJ.lIWrEl'!fl.H!lf$. tin'i~, 'A~ (:!:'$ta~ehpll;lettbat;wint)e affi:lQtetl by::t~'i'! ~:g~JJ~ntWotk r:irQPQ!!~tH~rthi$ pr{jjePf,it haSouf fUlfs.tlppotL Welo.ok forward fOCl),Gpetatlrlgln E!nablingpositive deveiopment .tj:>';(jQc~rth$t w~J i;&N!;l~!.Irgr0Wei'$ ~nlt Qtfi~riMl\~t!'Y $tak~Mm~tl!; WElpi;!JjeVEj.tfia.tmi~ projectc;;l11 layafoundatlM thatwUl endQreJo.tll:lEl';b.enetlf oUlletCj;jnf!I111generafioD$ in ~M().odaljd,its rel~tell incl.uWies, YoursfrilJy.; ~~ ..,.~.<:>..~I........ . - . '. ~'. . .6_ . ~ . . ~ -',. ," ". ',' _ ,",' ..' -' .' '. c' .' _ . ".< .', ," '. : . K~lj ,ice~o f!11anagE;lr ,. N01Ul'Q:tK~I;lm~WJ.Q.N QFA~RI(';:{JLTU~ -...- -----~._.. l'J:).~Wt n~ Si1.iciJE; :Or'.'riiiuo. N3Y~K.s April 11 , 2008 Ms.xll1l1\JrnbuJJ, chair mmwl!\Jr;U A4aptatiorr~Pll!1@ }q(Ji~r9~~J\9~ We,st; Sui~HP" Guelpft,'ONMlGSL3. ~~M~.-'J!QtIll111Jl: ~lP!J'W!itm~fu sUJ1P>lrt:Qfth~q~rep~tQdeye19?~~.~@.~9.9!!$iJxili~.~\i.Qri;.r111li;ltiV.ilM~ fuJ1i~!]l19ff~~aIid!ql!ilnS~. ~\ttiJiW:~, p.t~1MlY~~~!Yi~~v~i.i~'ay!lill\J:;I~~~tiJ'Ii1Yt.iltlie fo'bl(ooi1{groWefilWli~ .ili'~fu;tlfe!t(ansltionai tifiase,:lllffito thoilit1Wltl~llmMiltetested Jn~lorin!l' llew14eM: '.. :ForSliIife:fanners,;'th~futute'.i1''liOtllloking.b1i1iht>.h.o~ver; tllls:@anopportl.llrll:yiO:eficolirnge. b:~m~o.ct:dlk C iU!1ty . . lot . .#.\tttQtlS'P ~~~Q., . We1lL'thtilir6rtoDetieratfM:\~f.illiure,,~@t'tliii~it\1~:c ""l..~~,:....t.~~.'. q.~~.~_.s.".calon.Q.'~...e. !>l!fI'i(@::'Q)Jt.<W:Uiti!nely'I1l;lllJ'!.&t't.Q,mm:~e.tl1.~I~~'.mr, "L <"<. ".'~""""'<!"'..Y <>- --------..f~t~'9~W:@:i!\t'iiliiy~.WmtM&;\W#!Wiitj~thegnS\ll~~~ .f Wf;Jh;.~kyQurQry.Qur'tlmlt,mtlliftweQllll~Qfilnyt.fu1!i!lf.~g,l\l!% pJ~ed.i),!l~tli~-to \fs.!i:; . .. - .. l:1lh@(~ , ~... .. "- -' . . - ,~~:;:-"- ~' .:\t~;:~lt~~~&(,( 5:i:<f14~8;;Q5-16 . sw :~W:'V;!Ifij/~v'~>>tl't1Hi,~ ~' .~'-*: ""1 ................................... :_":: . I I I I April 14, 2008 Mr. Kim Turnbull Chair Agricultural Adaptation Council Ontario AgrjC~ntre 100 Stone Road West, Suite 103 Guelph, ON Nl G SL3 Reo' CaJlAdvatJce Project Proposal entitled Erie Agri-Food Innovations Initiative Dear Mr. Turnbull, The Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers' Association (OFVGA) has communicated to us the vision and goals for the Erie Agri.Food Innovations Initiative. We are keen to see this Initiative approved for funding by the Agricultural Adaptation Council and implemented. We believe that it is well aligned with the published goals of the CanAdvance Request for Proposals as per Schedule A: Pillar 1 "[ndustTy Led Solution to Bmerglng Issues" and stands to make a very significant contribution to the transformation of llgticulture in Ontario. The deliberl!te, intensive focus that this Initiative proposes to bring on attracting Investment for ways to add value to crops that grow well on our rich soils while matching growers' capacity for innovation with market opportunities is precisely what we need at this time. As a stakeholder that wll1 be affected by the excellent work proposed for this Initiative, it has our full support and commitment. We look forward ("0 cooperating in enabling positive development to OCClIr that will serve our growers and other stakeholders. We believe that this Initiative can lay a foundation that :will endure for the benefit of the coming gener?tfon and will contribute to the retention of our talented youth in agrl.food and related enterprises. Yours sincerely, ~ -' ,,~ W.J.Ingtatta Director Planning and Business Development , Vineland R.esearch aod Innovation Ceoter. ~.. C>9 .., o '0 QQ.~~ ~.~ Ontario Tender Fruit Producers' Marketing Board P.O. Box 100 Vineland Station, Ontario LOR 2EO Phone: 905.{;8~990 Fax: 905-688-5915 Emall: adrlal.l@Ontartotenderfrult.com www.ontarlotenderfrult.ca April 14, 2008 Mr. Kim Tumbull, Chair Agricultural Adaptation Council Ontario AgriCentre 100 Stone Road West, Suite 103 Guelph, ON N1G 5L3 Re: Growing Capacity Initiative Project Proposal entitled Erie Agri-Food Innovations Initiative Dear Mr. Tumbull, The Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers' Association (OFVGA) has communicated to us the vision and goals for the Erie Agri-Food Innovations Initiative. We believe that this initiative has been given much though and deliberation and is what the producers feel they need to move forward in a competitive marketplace. We believe that it is well aligned with the published goals of the Growing Capacity Initiative Request for Proposals and stands to make a very significant contribution to the transformation of agriculture In Ontario. If successful, the project stands to deliver on the need to attract Investment for ways to add value to crops that grow well on our rich soils while matching growers' capacity for innovation with market opportunities Is precisely what we need at this time. As a ~stakeholder organization we look forward to providing benefits to our grower members. We believe that this Initiative can lay a foundation that will endure for the benefit of the coming generation and will contribute to the retention of our talented youth in agri-food and related enterprises. ~~ Len Troup Chair c.c. Brenda Lammens, Chair, OFVGA .. THE NORFOLK FRUIT GROWERS' ASSOCIATION 99 QUEENSWAY, EAST, P.O. BOX 279, SIMCOE, ONTARIO N3Y 411 TELEPHONE: (519) 426.0640 FAX: (519) 426-2012 E-MAil: appla@nfga.ca WEBSITE: www.norfolkfrullgrowers.com HACCP Certified . April 10, 2008 Mr. Kim Tumball Chair Agrlcuilural Adaptation Council Ontario AgriCenlre 100 stone Road West, Suite 103 Guelph, Ontario N1G 5L3 Re: Growlng Capacity InmaUve Project Proposal entnled Erie Agrl-Food Innovations Initiative Dear Mr. Tumball The Ontario Fruit and Vegetable GroweI$' Association (OF&VGA) has communicated to us the vision and goals for the Erie Agrl-Food Innovations Initiative. We are keen to see this Initiative approved for funding by the Agricultural Adaptation Council and be Implemented. We believe that iI is well aligned with the published goals of the Growing Capacity Initiative request for Proposals and stands to make a very slgnlficanl conlribuUon to the Iransfonnation of agriculture in Ontario. The deliberate, intensive focus thet this Inlliative proposes to bring on auracting Investment for ways to add value to crops that grow well on our rich soils white matching growers' capacity for innovation with marnet opportunmes is precisely what we need at this tlma. As stakaholders that will be affected by the excellent worn proposed for this Initiative, It has our full support and commitment. We look forward to cooperating In enabling posillve development to occur that will serve our growers and other stakeholders. We believe thai this Inmatlve can lay a foundation that will endure for the benefit of the coming generation and will contribute to the retention of our talented youth in agri-food and related enterprises. Yours truly ~;lu, c9~ Thomas M. O'Neill General Manager The Norfolk Fruit Growers' Association Growers and Packers of Ontario's Finest Apples, Shipped From The Town of Simcoe on Lake Erie! Since 1906. April 8, 2008 Mr. Kim Turnbull Chair AgriculturaI Adaptation Council Ontario AgriCentre 100 Stone Road West, Suite 103 Guelph, ON NlG SL3 Re: CanAdvance Project Proposal entitled Erie Agri-Food Innovations Initiative Dear Mr. Turnbull, The Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers' Association (OFVGA) has conununicated to us the vision and goals for the Erie Agri-Food Innovations Initiative. We are keen to see this Initiative approved for funding by the Agricultural Adaptation Council and implemented. We believe that it is well aligned with the published goals of the CanAdvance Request for Proposals as per Schedule A: Pillar I "Industry Led Solution to Emerging Issues" and stands to make a very sigoificant contribution to the transformation of agriculture in Ontario. The deliberate, intensive focus that this Initiative proposes to bring on attracting investment for ways to add value to crops that grow well on our rich soils while matching growers' capacity for innovation with market opportunities is precisely what we need at this time. I As a stakeholder that will be affected by the excellent work proposed for this Initiative, it has our full support and commitment. We look forward to cooperating in enabling positive development to occur that will serve our growers and other stakeholders. We believe that this Initiative can lay a foundation that will endure for the benefit of the coming generation and will contribute to the retention of our talented youth in agri-food and related enterprises. I Yours siocerely, Presented at Information Meeting Simcoe Research Station Blueline Road Simcoe, Ontario Signatures gathered at this meeting as attached: I I I I 'j , ' co 0 'I 0 C"l csJ ';~ 'C C. .. <( . '0 . OJ i~ C == ev ev E ev ~f .r:. - - I() Oz "0-:1' ~>- 0(") ";I ~ -z ::J , 0\) ~ Q ~ .g . ",~I- ~ P U g "''''' VI ~ ~~ ~ "01: . Iri"* ~ ~ ~ ~ C - 5 \fj .00 i = 41 . v> ~ ~ . :.( ~ ' ::J 0 ~~.l'I) ~~ ~ 'lj.Du Q..:it ~ ... ~~ ~\ J)clE ~ '( 'lJ- -1 ~ ~ ... ' \'<\ t ~ ::>>- j!!t-V) .i!E-g 'Ii\j~ , 1 ~. \9\1)~ J ::.-~ 0- . :~~~ ~~~ le~q, c~o ~~ mOlt: .vO "r i \\' ~I\j~ r~ -"'!"- .... '" "0 CII . -0", ,<".j \~ ')-.~ >-ev.E 't..ff" J ~ ~.. ~ ~ E::j ~ ~ ..:r >-ev ' 4t<: lID ... "0 · ~ It.\~ - Q ~ !~~ e1 ~ \'., \'f) . "01 ~ o ' . ~~ k~ ~~~ ~ '~ ~~ ....... .~~ ~~ \i}~~G~~ ~ ev == CII' .!!:S ev- .s::. D -" ~ 0- , _ CII t.s::. ~~ 0 \1 c. ~ c. )(. ~ ~ ::J · ~ i '" , J. >- ..~ ~ E ~~~ t ~ D) i':)Ql c . t '\.) ~ . ~Q ~ ~ "'-. E . \.I.. ~ \I - 0 ..) 4 ~ U ,... 'U '. E .\.ju \.\.} D ~ - ~ I I I I I I ) I I I I I I I I I I I co o o C'l ~ :c a. <( '0 Ol C ~ QJ E QJ ,c - - It) Oz 'O'lt QJ>- -('I) .2z :;) , ~.Q 0- .. o 0 '01; Co ,0 . ):=QJ Q :;) 0 li.co .0 E E QJ.:iii ... , J!E'O (:I S2 !1l ioOi: Ui.....4t >- -g .!: EIIlli III :) >-QJ- llCli;rl:I 'O~ oiN 1IJ.... ':S:: QJ ~:fE QJc :S 0'0 li t,c o a. a. :;) III >- E Ol C iE E E o o E o , ~ 1 ~ 1 1 ~ J \ ~ t.. '" ~ t .3 \) ll), . ~~ .~ :J y. ~ -;: ~ ~. ~ . ~~ i ~ <J ~~ '!~ ~i~~6~~.d~S ~ IJ ~~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ l\:' 0 l'.( v 'is ).' "~ q~. ~i'~ ijS~ :.~ cl ~1.. ~ ~ ~. J- · e . '> \ ~ ~ ~ ~:t.'O: ':t-~~~~ : b- ~ Vl ~. ~ ~ ~ t ~ Q ,~. ~ ~ ~ ~ ...s C:( (\' %' _ ~ ~ "'i. ~ " \J ~ . . "'> .,~ . \G .~ ~ J ~ <)( ? !l(' ~ ~ '); ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~ ~<) ~ ~ ~ va ~ . ~ ~ ~ '1 l~ o ~{3 " ~ ~~i '. A Ai - ~ "3 ~ "- ~ , .- r. co o o <'l ai 'C Co <( '0 Ol c li CII E CII .c .- -~ Oz -o"Cl' -a~ -z ::>> u 0 .!::: .C U 0 -0- c c: , 0 0 ~ - ' ..Q'5C11 CII..QO ..QE~ CII ::>> .... ...t-~ ::>> E ' _ '0 0-0 c: looo: 0 mOa::: ~.... ~-gj E=li >-CII:l 1IlCl-a85 -o~ 0<"1 lii'" 1111 - - j!'O - :2 ~j! o Co Co ::>> .., >- E. Ol c !E 'E E o u E o ~ K ~ ~ ~ ~~ l\; ~ I N ~ ~ '2 ~. t ~ ~ . ~ CiJ. . t ~ ~ ;J'"::> ~ t ~ r ~ C\\.. ~ N \"'\ ~ '- .\i~ ~ x':i\ rIl ~ ~~ 1.0 ~ ~ ~ ~ I~ ~~ 0 [; S 'lP --' ~~ . /2 . ~-~ i1io ~~J .0~~ t~ y ~ ~f It From information supplied by the clients, this document was compiled by James Farrar, President & Managing Partner JAYEFF PARTNERS Division of Fitting Group Inc. 6 - 76 Main Street West Grimsby Place Grimsby, ON L3M 1R6 Telephone: (905) 945-6791 Fax: (905) 945-5767 Email: james@jayeffpartners.ca Mailing Address: P. O. Box 175 Grimsby, ON L3M 4G3 o @ c o (i)_ ~ I- <>> [!ItJ c o u .~ <>> <>> I- U Cd) t J @ 44015 Ferguson Line Sf. Thomas, ON N5P 3T3 Tel: 519-631-1270 Fax: 519-631-5026 ~'lclllbcr Municipalities: Central Elgin Cit}, of Lon dOll City of St. Tholllas i\'liddlescx Centle Thames Centre l\.talahide Township Southwold Township '\h.'llllJ<:-fOf ~ ~ ......, Conservation ONTARIO ....-,~-;""(~'~r.::-" April 15, 2008 Memo to: KCCA Board Members and Staff Council of the County of Elgin From: Bryan D. Hall, KCCA General Manager I Secretary Treasurer Subject: Appointment to KCCA Staff - David S. Pullen Forest and Soils Conservation Supervisor I am pleased to announce that David Pullen has accepted KCCA's Offer of Employment to assume the permanent staff position of Forest and Soils Conservation Supervisor. The responsibilities of this position include: acting on behalf of the County of Elgin as Tree Commissioner and Weed Inspector; organizing the planting of 100,000 tree seedlings each year under the KCCA's tree planting program; and providing advice to rural landowners on soil conservation, woodlot management, reforestation, and weed management. David has earned a Bachelor of Science, Crop Science Major, from the University of Guelph. His career history also includes: . Founder and Executive Director of the McCully Centre for Rural Learning; . Managing Partner at McCully's Hill Farm, including production and sales of vegetable and specialty crops; . Instructor on Crop Pest Management at Centralia College; . Tree Commissioner and Weed Inspector with the County of Perth; and . Agronomy and Sales with Pickseed Canada. Combined with an active past with reforestation of marginal lands on his farm, David will bring a host of talents to the work of Kettle Creek Conservation Authority and the County of Elgin. David currently resides near St. Mary's, with his spouse and two daughters. David will formally begin work on Wednesday, April 23, 2008. Please join me in welcoming David as the newest member of the KCCA staff teaml REPORTS OF COUNCIL AND STAFF MAY 13. 2008 Staff Reports - (ATTACHED) 43 Director of Financial Services - West Nile Virus Budget - 2008 44 Ambulance & Emergency Management Coordinator - Ambulance Performance Update 49 Ambulance & Emergency Management Coordinator - Request for County Flag for EMS and County Promotional Items 51 Ambulance & Emergency Management Coordinator - Agreement with Town of Aylmer for Services to Terrace Lodge Ambulance 53 Manager of Economic Development and Tourism Services - Community Investment Support Program 55 Manager of Road Infrastructure, Purchasing Co-Ordinator - Tender Awards 42 REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Linda B. Veger, Director of Financial Services DATE: April 25, 2008 SUBJECT: West Nile Virus Budget - 2008 CORPORATE GOAL(S) REFERENCED: To ensure fiscal responsibility and accountability. INTRODUCTION/DISCUSSION: Elgin St. Thomas Public Health has advised the County of the amount of funds required for the West Nile virus activities for 2008 - $9,681.85. An amount was not included in the 2008 budget to cover this cost. Staff recommend that the funds be taken from the Mill Rate Stabilization Reserve. CONCLUSION: The funds required to cover the West Nile virus activities were not included in the 2008 budget. Staff recommend that the funds be drawn from the Mill Rate Stabilization Reserve. RECOMMENDATION: THAT the $9,681.85 required for the 2008 West Nile virus activities be drawn from the Mill Rate Stabilization Reserve. Respectfully Submitted /') ~'~J~ f~ Linda B. Veger ':! Director of Financial Services Approved for Submission ~lMdidiJJJU;# j~Mark G. McDonald U Chief Administrative Officer REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Larysa Andrusiak, Ambulance & Emergency Management Coordinator DATE: April 14, 2008 SUBJECT: Ambulance Performance Update CORPORATE GOAL(S) REFERENCED: To ensure fiscal responsibility and accountability To provide innovative and collaborative quality service To recognize and seize opportunities for improvement INTRODUCTION: This report is a summary and update of Elgin-St. Thomas EMS and the contracted provider, Thames EMS's, status re Ministry of Health Certification, Bi- annual Performance Review and last Quarterly Report for the period October 1 to December 31,2007. DISCUSSION: In October of 2007, the County received notice from the Ministry of Health, Emergency Health Services Branch, Investigation, Certification and Regulatory Compliance Group that Elgin-St. Thomas Emergency Medical Service met the Certification criteria and all legislated requirements and was issued a renewal Certificate to operate an ambulance service valid until September 24,2010. This meets the requirements set out by the County for the Ambulance Service Operator in the County of Elgin Land Ambulance Service Contract. The bi-annual Operator's Performance Review took place January 3, 2008 in accordance with the Land Ambulance Service Contract. The criteria of this review include evaluating: Shift Coverage, Reaction Times, Paramedic Staff Recruitment & Training, Labour/Management Environment, Continuous Quality Improvement! Quality Assurance, Records & Reports, Ambulance Stations, Readiness of Personnel, Vehicles and Equipment, Security & Continuity of Service, Interaction with Client and Stakeholders, and Value Added. The Performance Review evaluation indicated that the Operator performed in a superior manner during the review period of July 1,2007 to December 31,2007. Some current highlights include - Thames EMS is currently in negotiations with the CAW, as the Paramedic Collective Agreement expired as of March 31, 2008. Defibrillator 12-Lead Training has been completed by all Paramedic staff allowing Elgin-St. Thomas EMS to offer an improved quality of cardiac related care. Elgin-St. Thomas EMS was the first to initiate an "emergency button" testing agreement with London CACC formalizing the process of Quarterly testing of this safety feature in all ambulances for staff safety. This testing was formally initiated early in 2008. On March 27, 2008, the Quarterly Report for the time period October 1, 2007 to December 31, 2007 was provided to County staff and reviewed with Thames EMS. It is noteworthy that with the amended contractual requirement to decrease chute time (time from crew being paged to vehicle enroute to call) for Code 3 and 4 calls from 2 minutes to 1.5 minutes (as per Se~tember 12, 2007 Council Approval), compliance has remained in the 90 h percentile, ranging from 92.7% to 97% for city and county stations. A significant increase in response times for Code 4 calls in both city and county stations was noted for the month of December (11 minutes to 13 minutes for the city; 13 minutes to 16 minutes for county stations). It is thought that weather played a factor in this increase. Despite the response time increase noted in December, the 4th quarter overall response times showed improvement over the previous quarter. As well, a comparison over the past four years indicates continued improvement in response times for Code 4 calls. The Executive Summary of the Quarterly Report is attached for Council's information. CONCLUSION: Thames EMS and Elgin-St. Thomas EMS have met Certification requirements of the Ministry of Health, Emergency Health Services Branch valid until 2010. The bi-annual Performance Review of Thames EMS has resulted in an assessment of superior performance for the period of July 1, 2007 to December 31, 2007 in all assessed criteria. The Quarterly Review for the period October 1, 2007 to December 31, 2007 was reviewed with Thames EMS General Manager and indicates a continuing trend of response time improvements and some general management issues, but no significant concerns identified in operations. RECOMMENDATION: That the report entitled "Ambulance Performance Update" dated April 14, 2008 be received and filed. Respectfully Submitted Approved for Submission H0&(I~~ ark G. McDonal Chief Administrative Officer ~~C- a)1clu<xX~ Larysa ndruslak, Ambulance & Emergency Mgt. Coordinator EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .. Code 4 compliance levels for the St. Thomas stations remained consistent with the previous quarter, repOliing a low of93.3% and a high of97.0%. Code 1&2 calls although not compliant remained in the 80% plus. 4 County stations reported excellent compliance figures for chute times during the quarter with one exception on Code 1&2 calls in October, Code 4 compliance ranged from 92.7% to 95.7% .. Response times for Code 4 calls by the St. Thomas stations remained consistent for the first two months of the quarter but there was a dramatic increase of nearly two minutes (11 minutes to 13 minutes) for the 90th.percentile in December. Weather could have played a factor. ,;j. Consistent with the St. Thomas stations, the 90th.percentile response to Code 4 calls showed improvement in the first two months with a severe increase in December (13 minutes to 16 minutes). ... Despite the increase in response time for the month of December the overall performance for the quarter by station showed improvement over the previous quarter. Edward station had a 90th, percentile in the 10 minute range followed by Rodney at 12 minutes, Dutton at 14 minutes and Aylmer at 16 minutes. ,:J. The overall Code 4 response performance for the fourth qualier was an improvement over the previous quarter despite the anomaly in December. As well, the comparison ofthe past four years consistently shows a gradual improvement in Code 4 response. 4 There are no significant concems to report for the TI- T7 performance either by station or shift over the repOliing period, The numbers fluctuate marginally. ,:J. One lost time claim for one day was repOlied to the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board during the fourth quarter in addition to five minor injuries requiring no lost time. "" During the fourth quatier, Elgin-St. Thomas paramedics paliicipated in a total of 98.5 hours of public relations events including the Pinafore Park Fantasy of Lights Display, assisting with Fanshawe College paramedic exams and Remembrance Day Celebration in Dutton, .. There were a total of tlu'ee vehicular accidents repOlied for the fomih qualier with the most extensive repair being approximately $1,515.00. "" A total of six letters/cards of thanks/appreciation were received during the reporting period and two notes of appreciation were found in the St. Thomas Times Journal. ,:J. During the reporting period Elgin-St. Thomas received two service complaints which were investigated. A brief summary is as follows: -Sept. 7 received a verbal complaint followed by written complaint Ji'om Dorchester Fire regarding unprofessional conduct displayed by a paramedic at an MVC. Our investigation revealed that the paramedic had been rather flippant in her response to a fireman's request to move the '. ambulance. The matter was brought to the attention of the paramedic involved and a reprimand was issued. No further action was taken. -On October 9 received a verbal complaint regarding a five hour delay in transporting a patient. The call was reviewed by dispatch and properly coded as a Code I and subsequently was defened until an appropriate vehicle could be sent. This information was conveyed to the complainant to her satisfaction and no further action was taken. "*' Dming the fourth quarter, 115 patient questionnaires were sent out and a total of 43 were returned (37.4%) of which 3 were incomplete. The results of the questionnaires are as follows: Question Score 5 4 3 2 1 0 Total 1. 36 5 1 0 0 1 43 2. 38 2 0 0 0 3 43 3. 31 5 0 0 0 7 43 4. 38 1 1 0 0 3 43 5. 33 6 1 0 0 3 43 6. 34 6 0 0 0 3 43 7. 36 2 0 0 0 5 43 8. 35 3 1 0 0 4 43 9. 34 5 1 0 0 3 43 All comments were complimentary and a few examples are as follows: "I appreciate all the care 1 received." "Everyone was professional and caring." "Thank God they are there for me." "I had never needed ambulance service before but 1 can tell you right now - it was perfect. They knew what to do and did it." "Both times 1 have had to use your services 1 have found all phases of operation excellent." .... Two paramedics received two days training on Critical Incident Stress Management provided by the Middlesex/London Health Unit. One Duty Manager attended a one day conference hosted London Health Sciences Centre on Pediatric and Neonate Transportation. Thilteen staff attended the Death Notification Training Seminar hosted by MADD Canada and Victim Services Elgin and two Duty Managers attended the two day conference held by MOHLTC/EHS Branch on Investigations. Finally, seven staff including a Station Manager attended an in-service training day with the West Elgin Fire Department. REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Larysa Andrusiak, Ambulance & Emergency Management Coordinator DATE: April 15, 2008 SUBJECT: Request for County Flag for EMS and County Promotional Item CORPORATE GOAL(Sl REFERENCED: To forge community partnerships. To promote Elgin as "The Place to Live". To recognize and seize opportunities for improvement. To provide innovative and collaborative quality service. INTRODUCTION: This report is a request to Council to provide the Elgin County Flag to the Association of Municipal Emergency Medical Services of Ontario (AMEMSO) for flying at its annual Gala Awards Banquet honouring exemplary EMS service in Ontario's communities. This report is also requesting Elgin County promotional items such as pens, pins and combination of golf shirt and golf balls for the AMEMSO Annual Conference being jointly hosted by Elgin and Middlesex Counties, September 23 - 26, 2008. DISCUSSION: AMEMSO is the provincial organization of municipal EMS leadership. This year Elgin, together with Middlesex County are jointly hosting the annual AMEMSO Conference, in con~unction with the annual Base Hospital Conference in London, September 23 - 26 h. The Gala Awards Banquet is a formal event with Exemplary Service Medals presented by Major General Richard Rohmer. Municipal flags are flown on stage during this event. It is requested that Elgin County Council approve providing AMEMSO with the Elgin County Flag to be used for the purpose outlined above and annually at its conference during the Gala Awards Banquet. Elgin County promotional items are also requested. It is suggested that Elgin County pens be distributed to AMEMSO Charity Golf Tournament registrants and County pins distributed to those registering for the Conference. It is anticipated that approximately 100 pens and 250 pins would be required for this. A County golf shirt and golf balls are proposed to be packaged for the charity silent auction. Staff has also notified the Economic Development and Tourism Manager of this upcoming conference, to keep in mind as an opportunity to promote Elgin County. CONCLUSION: Approximately 250 people from municipalities throughout Ontario are expected to register for the upcoming AMEMSO Conference and upwards of 400 people attend the Gala Awards banquet. As co-host municipality of this Conference, this presents an opportunity to promote and showcase Elgin County. It is requested that the Elgin County flag be flown to represent the County at this and future AMEMSO Gala Awards Banquets. It is also requested that County promotional items such as pens and pins be donated and provided to registrants of the Conference and golf shirt and golf balls as a charity auction item. RECOMMENDATION: That Council approve providing the Association of Municipal Emergency Medical Services of Ontario (AMEMSO) with the County of Elgin flag to be flown at each annual AMEMSO Conference Gala Awards Banquet, and That Council further approve the one-time donation of Elgin County Pins and Pens for distribution to the 2008 AMEMSO Conference registrants and Golf Shirt and Golf Balls as a charity auction item for the promotion of Elgin County. Respectfully Submitted Approved for Submission JU~lV!iu;! Au Mark G. McDonald U -Chief Administrative Officer u\~c- (b~'a-lu Larys AndrUSiak, Ambulance & Emergency Mgt. Coordinator REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Larysa Andrusiak, Ambulance & Emergency Management Coordinator DATE: April 23, 2008 SUBJECT: Agreement with Town of Aylmer for Services to Terrace Lodge Ambulance Base CORPORATE GOAL/S) REFERENCED: To forge community partnerships To ensure fiscal responsibility and accountability INTRODUCTION: This report is requesting County Council's direction for County staff to proceed to negotiate an Agreement with Town of Aylmer staff for connection to the Town's Sanitary and Storm Sewer System for the new Terrace Lodge Ambulance Base and associated compensation. DISCUSSION I CONCLUSION: The Ambulance Base Building Committee was informed at its April 22, 2008 meeting, that an Agreement was required between the County and Town of Aylmer for connection to the Town's Sanitary and Storm Sewer System for the new Terrace Lodge Ambulance Base. Town of Aylmer Council passed a Resolution at its April 21, 2008 Council meeting supporting the County's request to connect to the Town's services for the new Terrace Lodge Ambulance Base and instructing its staff to negotiate and agreement to be brought back for Town Council approval. The Ambulance Base Building Committee is requesting similar direction for County staff to negotiate such an Agreement with Town of Aylmer staff to be brought back for County Council's approval. For Council's information a similar agreement was entered into in 1977 for Terrace Lodge. The Agreement included a capital cost in the amount of $19,500 plus interest payable in yearly instalments of $1000 and a Water Rate of forty cents ($0.40) per one thousand imperial gallons of water for five years, to be amended after that time period. RECOMMENDATION: That County Council direct County staff to negotiate an Agreement with the Town of Aylmer for connection to the Town's services for the new Terrace Lodge Ambulance Base and that the Agreement be brought back for Council's approval. Respectfully Submitted Approved for Submission d(A'f~ Q,,'1CGu-0lJu Larysa Andrusiak, Ambulance & Emergency Mgt. Coordinator ark G. Mc onald Chief Administrative Officer REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Alan Smith, Manager, Economic Development and Tourism Services DATE: April 29thth, 2008 SUBJECT: Community Investment Support Program CORPORATE GOAL(S) REFERENCED: To promote Elgin as "The Place to Live" To provide innovative and collaborative quality service To forge community partnerships. To recognize and seize opportunities for improvement INTRODUCTION: The County of Elgin Economic Development Plan 2007-2011 contains four goals. One of which is the "".Effective Marketing and Promotion of Elgin County..." The primary objective of this goal is to ensure that the County is effectively promoting the assets, talents, and opportunities of Elgin County and enhancing the profile of the County to a targeted audience of visitor and business interests. In order to assist the Economic Development and Tourism Services department in meeting this goal, a Community Profile and an Agri-business Sector Profile will be completed this year. Total cost of these initiatives is estimated at $43,000.00 and is part of the approved 2008 Economic Development and Tourism Services budget. The County has received notification that the Community Investment Support Program (CISP) will be providing $21,500 to assist with the cost of these marketing initiatives as a result of an application made to this Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada program in January 2008. DISCUSSION: The Community Investment Support Program (CISP) is a program developed to stimulate regional foreign direct investment (FDI) partnership and the private sector. Its objective is to enhance the capability and effectiveness of Canadian communities to attract, retain and expand foreign direct investment. CISP is a cost-shared program, which supports up to 50% of eligible costs for projects that are part of a comprehensive business plan. The program supports activities ranging from improving the "investment readiness" of communities through to larger projects designed to attract, retain and expand foreign direct investment. A provincial adjudication committee organized by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada evaluates all applications. In January 2008, the Manager of Economic Development and Tourism Services applied to CISP to access financial support for some of the marketing initiatives that will be undertaken this year. Namely, a Community Profile and an Agri- business Sector Profile. The latter will contain essential data to promote the County (including each of the lower tiered municipalities/townships): economic statistics, quality of life indicators, business information, utility costs, tax rates, and other information that is required to attract business and individuals to Elgin County. The former initiative will assist in the County's efforts to attract investment to the agri-business sector. The County has received notification that the Adjudication Committee for CISP has approved up to 50% or $21 ,500 of the total costs of the above mentioned marketing initiatives. A by-law has been drafted and the contract signed which takes effect on April 30, 2008. CONCLUSION: The Economic Development and Tourism Services department has received $21,500 from CISP to assist with the development of a Community Profile and an Agri-business Sector Profile. Completing these marketing initiatives will increase the County's ability to provide the necessary information to prospective businesses and individuals considering locating to the County of Elgin. As identified in the County of Elgin Economic Development Plan 2007-2011, marketing and promotion of Elgin County is a key role of the Economic Development and Tourism Services department. Having a strategic document acknowledging this role has made it possible for the County to access programs like the one through Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada - CISP. RECOMMENDATION: That the April 29th, 2008, report entitled "Community Investment Support Program" be received and filed for information purposes. ReSpeCtf~II:A SUbmitjed I 1z:- . I 6 ,,--~-' / .,;:::::2/"- I -- . , / -"/~ ~~- Alan Smith /" Manager of Economic Development and Tourism Services Approved for Submission ~~~ . (J Chief Administrative Officer REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Peter Dutchak, Manager, Road Infrastructure Sonia Beavers, Purchasing Co-Ordinator DATE: May 13, 2008 SUBJECT: Tender Awards Introduction: As part of the approved 2008 Capital Budget, tenders were advertised as per the County's Purchasing Policy and were received until Wednesday, April 30, 2008 for; a) Hot Mix Asphalt Resurfacing, b) Polymer Modified Slurry Seal Type 2, MicroSurfacing Type 3 and FiberMAT Type B and c) Supply and Installation of Guide Rail. Discussion I Conclusion: Hot Mix Asphalt Resurfacing Three companies submitted bids for the Hot Mix Asphalt Resurfacing Tender as follows: COMPANY Walmsle Bros. Ltd Lafar e Pavin and Construction Ltd TCG As halt & Construction TENDER BID inclusive of taxes $ 1 932 512.40 2 032 392.81 2 221 201.50 Walmsley Bros. Ltd. submitted the lowest bid for the Hot Mix Asphalt Resurfacing Tender at a total price of $ 1,932,512.40 (inclusive of taxes) to complete work on a number of County Roads included in the approved 2008 Capital Budget. Four separate capital projects are wholly or partially represented within this tender and collectively their capital budget allocations total is $ 2,425,000 therefore, the lowest submitted bid is within budget estimates. Staff is anticipating approXimately $300,000 in asphalt cement price adjustments that will be added to the cost of these projects and have therefore budgeted accordingly. Polymer Modified Slurrv Seal Type 2. MicroSurfacing Type 3 and FiberMAT Type B Two companies submitted bids for the Slurry Seal, MicroSurfacing and FiberMAT Tender as follows: COMPANY Duncor Enter rises Inc. MSO Construction Ltd. TENDER BID inclusive of Taxes 397 898.55 425 680.50 Duncor Enterprises Inc. submitted the lowest bid for the Slurry Seal, MicroSurfacing and FiberMAT Tender at a total price of $ 397,898.55 (inclusive of taxes) to complete work on a number of County Roads included in the approved 2008 Capital Budget. Three separate capital projects are wholly or partially represented within this tender. In order to remain with the estimated budget allocations, an item to provide line painting will be removed from the tender and staff has made arrangements with the Township of Southwold to provide this service at a reduced cost as compared to the tender price. Supply and Installation of Guide Rail Two companies submitted bids for the Supply and Installation of one Guide Rail as follows: COMPANY Ro al Fence Limited Peninsula Construction Inc. BID inclusive of taxes 42 105.00 52 832.43 Royal Fence Limited submitted the lowest bid for the Supply and Installation of a Guide Rail at a total price of $ 42,105.00 (inclusive of taxes). The capital budget allocation total is $50,000, therefore, the lowest submitted bid is within budget estimates. Recommendation: THAT, Walmsley Bros. Ltd. be selected to provide Hot Mix Asphalt Resurfacing, Contract No. 6220-08 at their submitted price of $ 1,932,512.40 inclusive of all taxes; and THAT, Duncor Enterprises Inc. be selected for the application of Polymer Modified Slurry Seal Type 2, MicroSurfacing Type 3 and FiberMAT Type B, Contract No. 6250-08 at their submitted price of $ 355,937.40 inclusive of all taxes, exclusive of supply and installation of pavement markings and that the Municipality of Southwold will supply and install the pavement markings as identified in the Tender; and, THAT, Royal Fence Limited be selected for the Supply and Installation of a Guide Rail on County Road 18, Contract No. 6330-08-01 at their submitted price of $ 42,105.00 inclusive of all taxes; and also, THAT, the Warden and Chief Administrative Officer be authorized to enter into an agreement with Walmsley Bros. Ltd. for Hot Mix Asphalt Resurfacing, Contract No. 6220-08, and Duncor Enterprises Inc. for Polymer Modified Slurry Seal Type 2, Micro Surfacing Type 3 and FiberMAT Type B, Contract No. 6250-08. Pe er Dutchak Manager, Road Infrastructure Clayton Watters Director, Engineering Services ~~l " "IJ""'<.' 'rf'i'-' Sonia Beavers Purchasing Co-Ordinator c&drPJi?M {Is ~ ') Mark G. McDonald U ~ Chief Administrative Officer CORRESPONDENCE - Mav 13.2008 Items for Consideration 1. Donna A. Rubin, Chief Executive Officer, Ontario Association of Non-Profit Homes and Services for Seniors (OANHSS), requesting that the OHA provide the OANHSS with the same one-time funding commitment for RN bonuses that applied to the Ontario Nurses' Association. (ATTACHED) 2. Leslie Drynan, Clerk, Tay Valley Township, with a resolution requesting that the province make infrastructure funding available to all municipalities based upon the formulae similar to those developed for the Move Ontario and Municipal Roads and Bridges Fund. (ATTACHED) 3. Carolyn Downs, City Clerk, City of Kingston, with a resolution requesting the Province of Ontario give approval for the Zenn car and other electric automobiles to be used on Ontario roads and that every province and territory in Canada be requested to give approval for the Zenn car and other electric automobiles to be sold and used across Canada. (ATTACHED) ~OANHSS ~.J ONTARIO ASSOCIATION OF NON-PROFIT HOMES AND SERVICES FOR SENIORS ~ 7050 WESTON ROAD. SUITE 700, WOODBRIDGE, ONTARIO L4l8G7 . TELEPHONE: (905) 851.8821 . FAX: (905) 851-0744 March 28, 2008 Hon. George Smitherman Minister of Health and Long-Term Care 80 Grosvenor Street 10th Floor, Hepburn Block Toronto, Ontario M7 A 2C4 Dear Minister Smitherman: The Collective Agreement that was recently negotiated between the Ontario Nurses' Association and the OHA provides for a bonus of up to $3,250 per nurse, in addition to wage increases and improved benefits. OANHSS acknowledges the commitment of your Ministry to provide one-time funding to hospitals to support the cost of these bonus payments. The negotiation of ONA collective agreements in the not-for-profit long term care sector generally follows the completion of negotiations between ONA and the OHA, with the hospital central agreement used as the template for negotiations. Parity with hospitals is usually maintained. It is, therefore, inevitable that the requirement for bonus payments will migrate to renewed collective agreements in the not-for-profit long term care sector. We respectfully request that you extend your one-time funding commitment of RN bonuses to the long term care sector. Your commitment would ensure that the sector is able to compete with hospitals in recruiting and retaining registered nurses. It would also support long term care as a positive alternative career choice for nurses. Sincerely, Donna A. Rubin Chief Executive Officer Leaders Responding to Seniors' Needs 00 Tay Valley Township ..... - - April 14, 2008 Municipalities of Ontario Dear Counclls; Tay Valley Township Resolution Re: Provincial Funding - Evaluation & Approval Process Please be advised that the Council of Tay Valley Township passed the following resolution at their Regular Meeting held on April 8th, 2008; WHEREAS It is vel}' encouraging for munidpalities to see that the federal and prav/ndal governments have, for several years now, finally given formal recognition, through their various short and long-term budget announcements, that they have certaIn responsibilities to help fund new and replacement munfdpa/ infrastructure; AND WHEREAS the funding contributions from the senior levels of government result In, among other things, cleaner air and water, safer roads and bridges, etc.; AND WHEREAS the funding has resulted from programs such as the Canada-Ontario Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund, Rural Infrastructure Investment Initiative, Municipal Infrastructure Investment Initiative, Move-Ontario and the Municipal Roads and Bridges Fund; AND WHEREAS the stated objectives of the various programs such as "... to ensure that Ontarians in small urban and rural communities enjoy a quality of life that is second to none ...'; "m support economic development, prosperity and quality of life in small and rural municipalities'; "... to direct new Infrastructure funding to support the construction or renewal of municipally owned infrastructure assets" are admirable and vet}' desirable; AND WHEREAS, with the exception of the Move Ontario and the MunIcipal Roads and Bridges Funds, detailed, costly, onerous and in some cases, vel}' complicated appllcatJons had to be submitted to try and access funds from the various programs; AND WHEREAS those applications were submitted as a municipalitVs highest priority; AND WHEREAS those municipal priorities were then subjected to the province's own set of criteria which have been proven to be, less than transparent; AND WHEREAS a perception has evolved that the selection process is politically driven rather than being based on an open and accountable analysis of project eligibility and community needs; AND WHEREAS the senior levels of government now recognize that ALL municipalities are in urgent need of new and replacement infrastructure and that municipalities have very limited resources from which to fund these many and varied projects; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the province make Infrastructure funding available to ALL municipalities based upon formulae similar to those developed for the Move Ontario and the Municipal Roads and Bridges Fund so that municipal politicians and staff do not have to waste valuable time, effort and money in app!ying for the various programs' funds that would enable the construction of necessat}' projects; AND FURTHEMORE THAT a copy of thIs motion be sent to the PremIer of Ontario, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, the Leader of the Official Opposition of Ontario, the Leader of the New Democratic Party of Ontario, Randy Hi/fier MPP, all municipalities in Lanark County, and to the Association of Municipalities of Ontario for circulation to all municipalities in the Province of Ontario for support. The resolution Is being circulated to all municipalities in the Province of Ontario for support. Your serious consideration of this important issue would be very much appreciated. Sincerely 1 Le:ila ~nliWl Leslie Drynan Clerk Tay VaHey Township 217 Harper Road, R.R. # 4, Perth, Ontario K7H 3C6 \WAv.tayvaUeytwp.ca Phone: {613}267.5353 or1.800-810-0161 Fax: (613)-264--8516 Ema!l: Idrynan@tayval1eyt\vp.ca OF City of Kingston ? 16 Ontario Street Kingston, Ontario Canada K7L 2Z3 APR 2 5 2008 AUN~iNmTH{rnVk~ ::lgHV~CtS WWVI, cityofkingston ,ca wllere history and innovation /llrivB 2008-04-02 TO: Honourable Peter Milliken, MP, Honourable John Gerretsen, MPP, Prime Minister of Canada, Federal Ministers of Environment and Transportation, Premiers of all Provinces and TelTitories, FCM, AMO and all municipalities with a populatiou over 50,000 . RE: ZENN AUTOMOBILES ON ONTARIO ROADS I would confirm that Kingston City Council at its regular meeting held on April I, 2008, approved the following Motion (2): (2) Moved by Deputy Mayor Matheson Seconded by Councillor Garrison WHEREAS cars are one of the largest contributors to Greenhouse Gases; and, WHEREAS the Federal Government has finally given their approval for the sale of the Canadian-made Zenn (Zero Emissions No Noise) Automobiles; and, WHEREAS provincial approval is still needed to allow both the use and sale of Zenn Automobiles and olher electric automobiles on Ontario roads; and, WHEREAS Mopeds and other forms of low speed vehicles are already currently allowed on Ontario roads; and, WHEREAS Canada, and every province and municipality within our federation, must do our part to reduce our Greenhouse Gas emissions, and strive to not just meet but exceed the Kyoto Protocol targets; THEREFORE BE IT RESOL VED THAT Kingston City Councit request that the Province of Ontario give approval for the Zenn car and other electric automobiles to be used on Ontario roads; - and lurther - THA T every province and territory in Canada be requested to give approval for the Zenn car and other electric automobiles to be sold and used across Canada as soon as possible; - and further - THA T a copy of this resolution be sent for consideration and endorsement to Peter Milliken, MP, John Gerretsen, MPP, the Prime Minister of Canada, the federal ministers responsible for the Environment and Transportation, the Premiers of all provinces and territories, the Ministers responsible for Transportation and the Environment of each province and territory, all municipalities on our regular circulation list, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) and the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), CARRIED AS AMENDED Yours tmly, t;;;;,~~~/G~~,,-~ Carolyn Downs City Clerk Iki FileNo. Clerk's Department Corporate Services Phone: (613) 546-4291 exl. 1247 Fax: (613) 546-5232 cdowns@cityofkingston,ca CORRESPONDENCE - Mav 13. 2008 Items for Information (Consent Aaendal 1. A. Opalick, Executive Correspondence Officer, Office of the Prime Minister, acknowledging Council's support of Durham Region's resolution asking the Federal Government to revamp the criteria for Employment Insurance benefits and the resolutions from the City of Owen Sound, the City of Waterloo and the Municipality of North Grenville regarding funding of municipal infrastructure programs. 2. Federation of Canadian Municipalities, Members' Advisory, "Largest-Ever Survey on Municipal Issues shows Canadians want Federal Support for Cities and Communities". (ATTACHED) 3. Craig Carson, Senior Policy Advisor, Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages, acknowledging Council's support of the City of Waterloo's resolution for federal funding to establish new regional CBC radio stations. (ATTACHED) 4. Premier Dalton McGuinty with correspondence: 1) acknowledging Council's resolution regarding COMRIF funding; 2) thanking Council for their recognition of the Provinces commitment to municipal infrastructure (ATTACHED); 3) acknowledging Council's support of the City of Ottawa's resolution requesting the provincial government pay a proportionate share of MPAC's costs related to education property taxes. 6. Association of Municipalities of Ontario, Member Communication ALERT, "AMO Report to Members on March 2008 Board Meeting". (ATTACHED) 6. Steve Peters, M.P.P., Elgin-Middlesex-London, with information concerning the Municipal Eco Challenge Fund (MECF) for projects that conserve energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. (ATTACHED) 7. R. Millard, C.A.O.lClerk, Township of Malahide, endorsing the County's resolution respecting the announcement of investment in municipal infrastructure by the Provincial Government. 8. Randy Reid, Deputy Chief, Program Support, Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services, advising the application for federal funding in fiscal year 2008/09 under the Joint Emergency Preparedness Program (JEPP) has been approved for the telecommunications project ON-41-032. (ATTACHED) 9. Marg Emery, Tourism Coordinator and Alan Smith, Manager, Economic Development and Tourism Services, with a copy of the Executive Summary of the Premier Ranked Tourist Destination Framework Project. (ATTACHED) 2 10. Dr. Sharon Baker, Acting Medical Officer of Health, Elgin St. Thomas Public Health, with copy of correspondence to Steve Peters, M.P.P., concerning prolonged wait times for admission to long-term care facilities and the need for funding to ensure accessibility to these facilities. (ATTACHED) 11. Earth Tech Canada Inc., advising that the City of St. Thomas has initiated a Class Environmental Assessment (Class EA) study for the upgrade and expansion of the City of St. Thomas Water Pollution Control Plant. (ATTACHED) 12. Bruce McCuaig, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Transportation, concerning the verdict and recommendations made by the jury into the death of Michael Hipson and the Ministry's response to the recommendations. (ATTACHED) Office of the Prime Minister Cabinet du Premier ministre ~~~<< JJ~ f~: _ff;:~~ fl It}~{ ~:' r~~ ~ }::I ~_,..... ',' ," """,. ,1 t.1 1. ,.~. "__./" ',' . .. .~ ." ,~~ ...,,,,,.v Ottawa, Canada K1A OA2 APR 1 5 2008 April 9, 2008 COUNTY OF tiCrN ADMiN1HTf?f.\ riVE Sf~f1VICE?S Mrs, Sandra J, Heffi-en Manager of Administrative Services County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 5Vl Dear Mrs, Heffren: On behalf of the Right Honourable Stephen Harper, I would like to acknowledge receipt of your correspondence of January 23, with which you enclosed resolutions passed by the Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin regarding the funding of municipal infrastructure programs and the Employment Insurance program. Thank you for providing the Prime Minister with a copy of this material. You may be assured that the views expressed in the resolutions have been carefully reviewed. Yours sincerely, a4~ A. Opalick Executive Correspondence Officer Canada ~ "M a'3."'."" FCM 4/16/2008 6:04:56 PM PAGE 001/001 Fax Server Ft'iI..entiM nf Cundfu~MuuK:ip,;Jhie!; PMerWon Cl!lJdienn~ lJe!< In\fl\ieip.uiufa April 16, 2008 Please Distribute to All Members of Council MEMBERS' ADVISORY LARGEST-EVER SURVEY ON MUNICIPAL ISSUES SHOWS CANADIANS WANT FEDERAL SUPPORT FOR CITIES AND COMMUNITIES FCM President Gord Steeves yesterday released the largest-ever survey of Canadians' attitudes on municipal issues at a news conference In Ottawa. The survey of 2,000 people, conducted for FCM by the public opinion firm The Strategic Counsel between Jan. 30 and Feb. 14, 2008, shows Canadians believe municipal governments do not have the resources they need to meet the challenges facing them, and they want the federal government to playa major role in fixing the problem. The poll found that Canadians believe their municipal governments are under funded In relation to the services they provide to their communities. However, they do not see raising property taxes or reducing municipal services as ways to fix the problem. Most believe provincial and federal governments should provide the additional funds. As the president told reporters, "This poll leaves no room for doubt about Canadians' views on the Importance of their cllies and communities and the need for federal government support for the places they call home. Now It's time for the federal government to act on Canadians' priorities." The poll shows Canadians overwhelmingly want the federal government to provide greater financial support to municipal governments. More than 90 per cent say the federal government should help municipal governments deal with Infrastructure Issues, a view shared across the country, including in Quebec and Alberta. They are so concerned about municipal under funding that they would have preferred the federal government kept the GST at six per cent and used the funds to help municipalities. A strong majority (67 per cent) want to see the federal surplus used for spending on areas requiring additional funding. Finally, the poll shows that, of all the Issues currently facing Canadians, only health care Is more important than helping cities and communities with their infrastructure. This priority was rated well ahead of other Important issues, including post-secondary education, fighting smog and climate change, helping Industry be more competitive, assisting aboriginal people, and improving border and public security. FCM will continue working with the Government of Canada and with all parties in the House of Commons to find solutions to the local Issues identified in the poll as top priorities for Canadians. These solutions include legislating the permanent transfer of the federal gas tax; obtaining long-term funding commitments for transit, policing and housing; and moving toward a more robust revenue-sharing agreement to correct the municipal fiscal Imbalance that underlies the municipal Infrastructure deficil. The survey is on FCM's webslte at www.fcm.ca/english/documents/april152008.pdf. Received Time Apr.16. 2008 6:05PM No. 0137 Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages Cabinet de la ministre du Patrimoine canadien, de la Condition feminine et des Langues officielles Ottawa, Canada KIA OM5 Mrs. SJ. Heffi'en Manager of Administrative Services County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 5V1 APR 1 4 2008 ;~t<~ 'l).-P:h. fr~ re~: t~~, II g:.: W"\ :;'~ ~C:~\-c1 U.:~;1li tJ !\:,"'" ~jdl AP\{ ~ 7 2008 Dear Mrs. Heffren: I am replying to your correspondence of February 12, 200S, addressed to the Honourable Josee Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages, supporting the resolution of the City of Waterloo regarding the request of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) for federal funding to establish new regional CBC radio stations. Ms. Verner appreciates your advising her of the support of the County of Elgin for the resolution ofthe City of Waterloo on this matter. The House of Commons Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage conducted a full investigation of the role of the national public broadcaster, including consultations with the public. The Committee heard from a number of witnesses on the issue of local and regional services during its investigation. The Committee has now completed its review and on February 2S, 200S, released its report entitled "CBC/Radio-Canada: Defining Distinctiveness in the Changing Media Landscape." For your reference, the full text ofthe report is available on the Parliamentary Web site at http//cmte.parl.gc.calContent/HOC/committee/392/chpc/ reports/rp3297009/392 _ CHPC _ Rpt06 ]DF/392 _ CHPC _ Rpt06-e.pdf. The Standing Committee's report has been tabled in Parliament, and the Government will provide its response by the end of June 200S. The work of the Standing Committee, as well as a CBC proposal to increase its local radio programming, inform the Goverhment's ongoing policy deliberations to ensure that broadcasting policy is responsive to and reflective of the changing nature of the broadcasting system. I trust that this information is useful. Please accept my best wishes. Yours sincerely, Craig Carson Senior Policy Advisor C d.+. ana a The Premier of Ontario Le Premier ministre de l'Ontario Edifice de ['Assemblee legislative Queen's Park Toronto (Ontario) M7A 1A1 Uij 'IIlmar Ontario Legislative Building Queen's Park Toronto, Ontario M7A1A1 K't~ ~?""'~' April 9, 2008 APR 1 4 2008 Mrs. Sandra J. Heffren Manager of Administrative Services County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 5Vl OF' ELGiN ADM1N1~JrHAnVK: SEHV!Cf::,S Dear Mrs. Heffren: Thank you for your letter providing me with a copy of council's resolution regarding COMRIF funding. I appreciate your keeping me informed of council's activities. As this issue falls under the jurisdiction of the Honourable Leona Dombrowsky, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, I have sent her a copy of council's resolution. I trust that the minister will also take council's views into consideration. Thank you again for the information. Yours truly, ~ Dalton McGuinty Premier c: The Honourable Leona Dombrowsky @ The Premier of Ontario Le Premier ministre de l'Ontario t~~ ~~ Legislative Building Queen's Park Toronto, Ontario M7A 1A1 Edifice de l'Assemblf38 legislative Queen's Park Toronto (Ontario) M7A1A1 Ontario April 29, 2008 tF;ii:~::u~~~ h?f{}, \\ il !!-,,(t:'~ MAY ", t 2008 Ms. Sylvia Hofhuis Warden 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 5Vl j\Df~-HNiSHU\lIV,;~ S;";HVlCgG Dear Ms. Hofhuis: Thank you for your letter of April 9, informing me of council's resolution regarding municipal infrastructure. I appreciate council's kind words of recognition. As I am certain my colleague the Honourable David Caplan, Minister of Public Infrastructure Renewal, would also appreciate reading your correspondence, I have forwarded a copy to him for his information. Thank you again for writing. Please accept my best wishes. Yours truly, ~ Dalton McGuinty Premier c: The Honourable David Caplan @ The Premier of Ontario Le Premier ministre de l'Ontario Ediflce de l'Assemblee legislative Queen's Park Toronto (Ontario) M7A 1A1 ltj "I(.IlI!!ilI" Ontario Legislative Building Queen's Park Toronto, Ontario M7A 1A1 April 30, 2008 ;.; H ;J\ 0 $""'"';\ 11"'''1., Ii 'i~ I_~ f.":'.)1.iJ *' ::j '.J !h~r,' t~,4" t4A Y -. 5 200B c..... ,'::~,J)~N ., d'i.'I't"(; '~'~i;-h<"'--i' '.\' .~~ ,....-...~1 ~ ''<C'. .-Q Mr. Mark G. McDonald Chief Administrative Officer 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 5Vl Dear Mr. McDonald: Thank you for your letter expressing council's support for the City of Ottawa's resolution requesting that the provincial government pay a proportionate share of the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation's costs related to education property taxes. I appreciate your keeping me informed of council's activities. As this issue falls under the jurisdiction of the Minister of Finance, the Honourable Dwight Duncan, I have passed on a copy of your correspondence to him for his information. I trust that the minister will also take council's views into consideration. Thank you again for the information. Please accept my best wishes. Yours truly, 0It.., Dalton McGuinty Premier c: The Honourable Dwight Duncan @ 200 University Ave, Sune 801 Toronto, ON M5H 3C8 TeL: (416) 971-98581 Fax: (416) 971-6191 E-mail: amo@amo.on.ca ~ MEMBER COMMUNICATION ALERT NO: 08/021 W --J To the attention of the Clerk and Council April 16, 2008 FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Laurel McCosham, AMO Policy Advisor (416) 971-9856 ext 315 AMO Report to Members on March 2008 Board Meeting To keep members Informed, AMO continues to provide updates on Important Issues considered at regular AMO Board of Directors' meetings. Highlights of the March 2008 Board meeting follow: . AMO Response to Proposed Changes to the Ontario Building Code The Board approved AMO's response to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH) regarding MMAH's proposed changes to the Ontario Building Code (OBC). According to this proposal, the OBC would be amended to mandate fire sprinklers In new multi-unit residential buildings as well as to Introduce requirements for septic system Inspections In 'prescribed areas' under Clean Water Act Source Protection Plans. AMO's response highlighted Impacts on public health, municipal finances and capacity that may result from these changes. Staff was directed to transmit the response to MMAH. A copy of the report Is linked here. Contact: Craig Reid, Senior Polley Advisor, email: creld@amo.on.ca; ex!: 334 and Laurel McCosham, Polley Advisor, emall: Imccosham@amo.on.ca; ex!: 315 . Proposed AMO Economic Development Task Force The Board approved Terms of Reference for the creation of an AMO Economic Development Task Force. Charged with a mandate to foster Increased capacity and collaboration among municipalities, stakeholders and other orders of government, the Task Force will work to articulate a shared vision of local economic development for Ontario. While membership will primarily draw upon municipal expertise, there will also be representation invited from the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade (MEDT) and Industry Canada's regional office. . Contact: Laurel McCosham, Polley Advisor, emall: Imccosham@amo.on.ca; ex!: 315 1-1 Association of A.t1ie Municipalities of Ontario ' The Board received an update regarding the dispersal of COMRIF and Building Canada (BCF) Infrastructure funding. The Board approved an AMO resolution calling on the federal and provincial governments to conclude negotiations and flow funding in a timely manner. The resolution has been forwarded to the relevant federal and provincial Ministers. J- . Federal and Provincial Infrastructure Funding Contact: Craig Reid, Senior Policy Advisor, email: creld@amo.on.ca; ext: 334 W -I . Provincial Budget The Board received a report on the 2008 Provincial Budget which was recently unveiled. The Budget featured a new $1 billion infrastructure investment package for municipalities, including $400 million for municipal roads and bridges, $497 million for public transit In the GTA and $100 million in funding for repairs to 4,000 social housing units. This package is in addition to the recently proposed Investing In Ontario Act, which allocates a portion of any 2007-08 budget surplus to investments in municipal Infrastructure. Should the surplus be in excess of $800 million for 2007-08, the first $600 million will go toward provincial debt repayment while the remainder will be allocated to municipal infrastructure on a per capita basis. Contact: Matthew Wilson, Senior Policy Advisor, emall: mwllson@amo.on.ca; ext: 323 . Waste Electronics and Electrical Equipment Plan The Board received an update on the progress of the Waste Electronics and Electrical Equipment (WEEE) Plan. The Plan was recently approved with revisions by Waste Diversion Ontario. Reflecting the contribution of AMO WOO members, the WOO agreed that municipalities be compensated should they collect all designated material. The amount of compensation will be determined by municipalities and stewards during the first year of implementation. Contact: Milena Avramovlc, Senior Polley Advisor, emall: milena@amo.on.ca; ext: 342 This Information is available In the Polley Issues section of the AMO website at www.amo.on.C8. 2-2 Association of ~hie Municipalities of Ontario ' ~ Ontario Steve Peters, M.P.P. Elgin - Middlesex - London April 11, 2008 r.~ k"''' (""'. 't, ".-.i"'" II ~ h' "-"" ~"'., l-'< b~"", .r'-Ci->1;:!t1Ft-'I!fu.,;,'1I:'J 1>. tl. '<-..~ i '!~ ~ f,'>' '-' .._,..;a ",dY i{,~" U '.' "'S,:";''::''~ Warden Sylvia Hofhuis County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, ON N5R 5V1 APR ~ 7 2008 Dear Warden Hofhuis: ;";0: ;!''';'f\j {'!f' F} {\I'\~ .C-1c, 1...-1 ~ 1 -. ,j, ."L~.~ J. I.~\- t\'~J;~}I~'rj~:\'rJ\if~ t~eR\J!f'l:':D V:,;-\\'i,i;i.l d~ i I ~ In "}[.,f. II LA..~ 1 would like to take this opportunity to inform your municipality of an important new funding oppoliunity - one that I hope you will be able to take advantage of over the next two years (to March 31, 2010). The Municipal Eco Challenge Fund (MECF) is a $20-million program dedicated to helping you with infrastructure costs for projects that conserve energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. A first call for applications was issued yesterday - with a deadline of May 23, 2008. You can apply for grants to cover up to 25 per cent of retrofit costs, up to a maximum of $100,000 per municipality over the life of the program. (A copy of the news release is enclosed. ) Ontario is also working in patinership with the Association of Municipalities and the Canada Green Building Council to help your staff access energy efficiency tools and training. The MECF is an important pati of the provincial government's commitment to suppOliing you in your effOlis to renew infrastlUcture, and programs like these can help you free up funding for other purposes. Again, I encourage you to take part. Guidelines and application forms are posted on the Ministry of Energy website at www.energy.gov.on.ca. IfI can assist in any way, please don't hesitate to contact my office by telephone at (519) 631-0666 or bye-mail at speters.mpp.co@liberal.o1a.org. Sincerely, ~ Steve Peters, M.P.P. Elgin-Middlesex -London 542 Talbot Street, St, Thomas, ON N5P lot T - (519) 631~0666 Toll free - 1-800-265-7638 F - (519) 631-9478 TTY ~ (519) 631-9904 E - spctcrs.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org "",'w,ste"epeters.com 1'):-" t -:> vF Ontario NEWS Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing GREENING COMMUNITIES ACROSS ONTARIO McGuinty Government Encourages Municipal Retrofits NEWS Ap[fao~2b08 Ontario is helping municipalities "green" their building stock, through a grant program designed to cut both energy costs and environmental impacts. Starting today, municipalities can apply for a grant to cover up to 25 per cent of retrofit costs, up to a maximum of $100,000. The application deadline is May 23,2008. The majority, $14 million, of Ontario's $20 million Municipal Eco Challenge Fund (MECF) is targeting energy efficiency opportunities in those municipal buildings. The fund's remaining $6 million is providing municipalities with training, tools and technical support, in collaboration with the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) and the Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC). The grant program was announced by Premier Dalton McGuinty as part of the Ontario's Go Green action plan on Climate Change, and in conjunction with a $200 million Infrastructure Ontario / OSIFA loan program for municipal projects that reduce GHG emissions. QUOTES . "We are building great partnerships with municipalities, including green partnerships, and that is key to the outcomes we want to achieve, and of great benefit to all Ontarians, "said Jim Watson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. . "Through these "Go Green" municipal programs we can help municipalities reduce energy costs and create greener communities for Ontario residents," said Gerry Phillips, Minister of Energy. . QUICK FACTS -7 The Province of Ontario has committed to GHG emission reduction targets of 6 per cent below 1990 levels by 2014,15 per cent below 1990 levels by 2020 and 80 per cent below 1990 levels by 2050. -7 Ontario's municipalities spend nearly a billion dollars a year on energy costs alone. -7 At over 6.6 billion kilowatt-hours a year, municipalities consume more electricity than any industrial sector outside Pulp and Paper. That's also more than the consumption of the cities of Hamilton and Ottawa combined. -7 Municipal electricity consumption also causes at least 1.5 million tonnes (1.5 billion kilograms) of carbon dioxide emissions a year in their own operations, with municipal buildings accounting for as much as 80 per cent of those emissions. LEARN MORE Review the Guidelines and Application form required to apply for Municipal Eco Challenge funding on the Ministry of Energy's website (www.energy.gov.on.ca). Learn more about Ontario's Go Green climate change plan (www.gogreenontario.ca) and what Ontarians can do (www.gogreenontario.cafyou.php) to make a difference. Review other municipal support program in the 2008 Provincial Budget http://ontariobudget.ca/english/). Read about the government's plan for pUblic infrastructure (http:f fwww.pir.gov.on.cafenglishfinfrastructurefindex.html) . Shanna Brisebois, Minister's Office, 416-585-7131 M of Energy Contact, Office Name, 416-555-1234 ontario.cafmah-news Disponible en franr;ais 87 John Street South, Aylmer, Ontorio N5H 2C3 Telephone: 519-773-5344 Fox: 519-773-5334 www.township.malahide.on.ca theTOWNSH I Poj ALARID. A proud tradition, a bright future. April 21, 2008 -'E.-,"~>l!i""'iti\"iJ_on" 1t~,-:_- '!\ _ -~!:q ,i~;~: .Si.J<:".. ~--''i:'i!it'W~t;~ .;,.'!J ~-SM)t<~~ County of Elgin, 450 Sunset Drive, St. lLhornas, ()ntario N5R 5Vl APR 2 3 ZOOS COUNTY 01' k1lGIN AflWlilSTM TlV~ $f!HVICIUl Attention: Mark McDonald Dear Sir: RE: Infrastructure Grant Resolution. Malahide lLownship Council passed the following Resolution on April 17, 2008: THAT Malahide Township Council endorses the Resolution ofthe County of Elgin passed on April 8, 2008, with respect to the McGuinty Government announced investment in municipal infrastructure. Yours very truly, lL()WNSHlP ()F MALAHIDE 4~ R. MILLARD, C.A.().ICLERK Copy - Hon. Steve Peters, MPP Hon. Dalton McGuinty H:\diana's files\Randy 2008\County ofElgill ~ infrastructure grant res apr i8.dace RANDALL R. MILLARD C.A.O'/Clerk SUSAN E. WILSON Treasurer treasurer@township.malahide.on.co Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services Emergency Management Ontario 77 Wellesley Street West Box 222 Toronto ON M7A IN3 Telephone/Telephone: (416) 314-3723 Facsimile/ Telecopieur: (416) 314-3758 E-mail: Infonnation.EMO@ontario.ca File Reference/Reference: JEPP 2008-2009 Ministere de la Secnrite communautaire et des Services correctionnels Gestion des situations d'urgence Ontario 77, rue Wellesley Ouest C.P. 222 Toronto ON M7A IN3 April 22, 2008 Larysa Andrusiak 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, N5R 5V1 Dear Larysa: Congratulations! Emergency Management Ontario (EMO) is pleased to advise you that your application for federal funding in fiscal year 2008/2009 under the Joint Emergency Preparedness Program (JEPP) has been approved for the following project: Proiect Number: ON-41-032 Proiect Description: Telecommunications Approved Federal Share: $4,729.75 Before beginning your project, please review the 2008/09 Guidelines for Project Applications and Funding, by logging onto the website at www.ontario.ca/jepp. This document includes conditions of approval, details about eligible costs, documentation of expenditures, and other requirements. I would also request that by April 30, 2008 you advise EMO in writing that you have secured funds in your budget and your intention to continue with this project. As you know, EMO is administering the JEPP program on behalf of the federal government. Due to the excessive funds left unused every year and the long list of projects waiting for funding, there is now a requirement to submit a mandatory report on the status of your project(s) to EMO by September 30, 2008. If the report is not received by that date, EMO may retract the funding and reallocate the funds to projects on the wait list. .../2 -2- Your project must be completed in accordance with your project application and the approved fundina items listed on line (in some cases the funding items may have changes or deleted since the original application). A request for modifications to your project can be made at any stage during the project year. A formal written request to EMO is required to make any modifications to an approved application. Before making any purchases, you must receive official notification from EMO advising that the modifications have been approved. These changes may impact the federal funding share. Once a claim is submitted it is assessed against the most up-to-date approved project data. You are reminded that your project must be completed during the current fiscal year. When your project is finished, please complete the JEPP claim form along with your receipts and proof of payment, and forward it to EMO for reimbursement of the federal share of your project. The target date for submission of the final claim is March 31, 2009. Questions and inquiries about the completion of your project and about the completion of your claim may be directed as follows: Kay Agelakos Emergency Management Funding Coordinator Joint Emergency Preparedness Program Emergency Management Ontario 77 Wellesley Street West Box 222 Toronto, ON M7A 1 N3 Telephone: (416) 314 - 8620 Facsimile: (416) 314 - 2846 Email: Kay.Agelakos@Ontario.ca Congratulations again on the approval of your JEPP project. Sincerely, Randy Reid Deputy Chief Program Support ALAN SMITH, Incredlfj{e :::::~X~~~~ Dre+; ~~(i:':; ~ \\ f,E~~ll~2 Tourism Coordinator, ext. 137M"-.~ ~;l t~\,,-(;' !!.~:;, ~i \ l /{If S APR 2 9 County of Elgin Economic Development and Tourism Services 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 5V1 Telephone - 519-631-1460 Fax: 519-631-4549 www.elgintourist.com Dear Tourism Partner, (\('i,tii\.;"j".i {V: 1.:,1,1,'",1,11]\2 1.-i(',.,,"'.1- ",:. .... , Re: Premier Ranked Tou{il~~'f>!Mm~~\t~~ 'Jraf~'~ork Proiect April, 2008 You will recall that over a year ago the St. Thomas - Elgin Tourist Association along with the Norfolk and Haldimand Counties pminered together to undertake the Premier Ranked Tourist Destination Framework Project. Through this project we set out to enable us to know our development, infrastructure, training and investment needs, while defining our strengths, product clusters and identifying our major trip motivators and markets, We now have an inventory of tourism assets, a common understanding of our tourism demand generators, are able to begin the foundation for a new marketing initiative, and determine a strategic direction to improve products and services, As the final phase of this project, Tourism Services is now addressing the recommendations and setting priorities for implementation, We are writing to provide you with a copy of the Executive Summary of the final report, We felt it would be better to provide a copy of the document to all our stakeholders rather than have a meeting which some of you may not be able to attend and would therefore not receive the document. As a County depaliment, Economic Development and Tourism Services, we have already begun to implement some of the recommendations, The department has budgeted for a Destination Development Strategy and Marketing Master Plan for tourism to be undertaken in 2008 and we plan to introduce an annual visitor survey to track visitor experiences over the summer as well. Further to this we are exploring a number of options to collaborate with the counties of Norfolk and Haldimand to promote common elements such as agritourism and the Lake Erie shoreline, Funds have been budgeted and you will see our first collaborative in the fall which will add to our Great Fall Drives partnership already in place, Just as a reminder that although the Tourist Association has transitioned to the County of Elgin offices, Tourism Services still represents the County of Elgin and the City of St. Thomas in a partnership of shared services and as such we still represent the whole of Incredible Elgin, Please do not hesitate to contact Alan Smith, Manager, Economic Development and Tourism Services or myself should you have comments or questions, We look forward to your input as together we promote "Incredible Elgin ", Ontario's South Coast. Sincerely, ~~ourism Coordinator Economic Development and Tourism Services A~' TOURISM SERVICES County of Elgin & City ofSt. Thomas Incred16(e ELGIN St. 71l.omas ~ ~ PREMIER RANKED TOURIST DESTINATION FRAMEWORK PROJECT SUMMARY REPORT December 2007 The St. Thomas-Elgin Tourist Association acknowledges and thanks the many tourism business operators and industry colleagues who contributed to the success of the ELGIN's Premier Ranked Tourist Destination Framework. The St. Thomas - Elgin Tourist Association represents the County of Elgin and the City of St. Thomas along with the lower tier municipalities. When reference is made to ELGIN it includes all partners in the County and all municipalities within the boundaries. Note: Effective January 1, 2008, the St. Thomas - Elgin Tourist Association transitloned into the County of Eigin Economic Development and Tourism Services department while still representing both the County of Elgin and the City of St. Thomas. INTRODUCTION The Premier Ranked Tourist Destination program was an initiative developed by the Ontario Ministry of Tourism under its Ontario Tourism Strategy in 2004. The goal of the PRTDF program is to help destinations across Ontario identify areas for development related to tourism, assess their competitive tourism advantage and ultimately improve to become a destination of choice. To assist municipalities with assessing and developing their tourism product, the Ministry of Tourism established a tool called the Premier Ranked Tourist Destinations Framework. This framework assists jurisdictions in assessing their tourist assets, attractions and amenities and allows them to identify opportunities in tourism development. The Ministry of Tourism provides financial assistance to regions that successfully apply to undertake the PRTDF process. The ELGIN PRTDF project is an initiative introduced by Norfolk County and facilitated by the St. Thomas-Elgin Tourist Association (STETA), the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Employment Ontario, and tourism industry stakeholders. The funding for the project came from Employment Ontario, the Government of Canada, and the Ontario Ministry of Tourism. -1- THE PROCESS The Premier Ranked Tourist Destination Framework (PRTDF) process has revealed both opportunities and gaps in the tourism offering. The process offers many tangible tactics that can improve the status of the destination when implemented. It supports the premise that ELGIN has the opportunity to develop as a viable destination. There is a willingness among tourism stakeholders to take steps to improve both collectively and individually. The process measured the destination's Product, Performance and Futurity dimensions. Product: A Tourist Destination provides a high quality tourist experience or "product", enabled through the destination's offerings of Distinctive Core Attractions, Quality and Critical Mass, Satisfaction and Value, Accessibility and an Accommodations Base. The process determined that affirmation can almost be made and supported for ELGIN in this category, when some key efforts or investments are made. Performance: The quality of the tourist experience and the destination's success in providing it ("performance") is validated by Visitation, Occupancy and Yield, and Critical Acclaim. The process determined that ELGIN could not receive an affirmation for the Performance dimension. Futurity: The ability for a destination to thrive from tourism into the future is sustained by Destination Marketing, Product Renewal, and Managing within Carrying Capacities. The process determined that ELGIN could not receive an affirmation for the Futurity dimension. OUR STRENGTHS ELGIN has a number of tourism assets on which to build and enhance its performance in the tourism marketplace. These assets include: . Emerging tourism product with significant potential . Proximity to 9 million people within 3 hours . Lake Erie shore and all it has to offer . Charming towns, historical landmarks . 51. Thomas downtown revitalization and the CASa site . The Railway Capital of Canada designation and supporting attractions FINDINGS. PRODUCT DISTINCTIVE CORE and SUPPORTING ATTRACTORS: Core attractors must meet at least two of the following criteria: (1) They must attract a significant number of visitors annually; (2) They must have a physical or historical link to the destination; and (3) They must be a destination landmark. - 2- Based on an analysis of ELGIN's tourism industry, the core atlractors are: Core Attractors are: . Water Based Activities . Railway Heritage . Small TownNillage Experience . Outdoor Recreation Supporting Attractor is: . Heritage Sites, Historical Landmarks These atlractors emerged as core and supporting due to the following: . The number of visits they generate to ELGIN . A consensus of industry stakeholders who were asked to validate ELGIN's demand generators . An evaluation of the number of tourism opportunities that these attractors provide in the region ELGIN's distinctive core and supporting attractors are part of a regional complex linked to the physical and historical setting of the area. The physical linkages in ELGIN are best connected to the core attractors due to its position on Lake Erie's North Shore. ELGIN is bordered on the south by 120 kilometres of shoreline. The historical linkages are best connected to the core attractors as follows: . Railway Heritage - currently there are five groups which undertake the promotion of railway heritage, . Sparta - Home of the Quaker Settlement . Talbot Trail- area settied by Colonel Thomas Talbot, founder of Elgin . Eight museums in the area address local history - Backus Page House, Aylmer Museum, Elgin County Museum, Edison Museum, Port Burwell Marine Museum and Lighthouse, Rodney Jail, Elgin Military Museum, Elgin County Railway Museum. The destination stands out from its competition on some fronts. ELGIN offers some distinct characteristics because the unique offerings which include: . Waterfront and beach stretching from one end of ELGIN to the other (120 km) . Three wineries . Unique railway heritage sites ELGIN's products and experiences have both "mass" and "niche" appeal and provide visitors a wide variety of things to see and do. The region offers a range of experiences but few sustain interest for more than 24 hours, however, clusters of products do have potential to sustain interest beyond 24 hours. The number of same day visits (467,539) was significantly higher than overnight visits (171,410) in 2004; most experiences are consumed over 3-5 hours. -3- ELGIN's core attractors attract limited visitation on a year round basis. Those that have year round appeal are limited to shopping, sports tournaments, and heritage and culture experiences. In terms of dining options, ELGIN does offer a selection of dining experiences; few have accredited chefs and/or wine lists with 25+ labels and there are 7 dining establishments with name recognition beyond the local region. In terms of retail shopping experiences, ELGIN has a variety of high-end to bargain retailers. Some are independently owned, offer a unique selection of merchandise and have name recognition beyond the local region. The destination may be friendly and hospitable and provide good service and deliver value for money, this cannot be validated as guest experiences are not tracked a county- wide basis. Through industry consultations we learned that ELGIN businesses appear to be providing acceptable and consistent levels of service and offering value for money. ELGIN is located directly off of Highway 401, offering easy access. Modes of travel to reach the destination are limited to personal vehicle other than scheduled bus service to St. Thomas. The destination is accessible by cruise ships and has dOCking facilities adequate to accommodate this mode of travel. ELGIN offers over 100 slips for transient boaters located at various marinas along the Lake Erie shoreline. ELGIN offers visitor's accommodation options with a total of 317 roofed guest rooms at a variety of price points, however most are not within close proximity (walking distance) of core attractors. The region has 1,557 campsites/RV sites. FINDINGS - PERFROMANCE (All data listed is from the 2004 CTS/lTS Survey, prepared by Statistics Canada and Includes numbers for the Elgin County) . In 2004 ELGIN attracted a total of 638,949 guests, 171,410 staying overnight. Of the 171,410 overnight visitors, 91,691 (53%) were on pleasure trips, 62,656 (37%) were traveling to visit friends and relatives, 3,043 (2%) were on a business trip and 14,020 (8%) were traveling for other reasons. In 2004 same day travel to Elgin represented 73% and overnight visits accounted for 27% of the trips. Average expenditure for guests on day trips was $21.41 compared to $62.56 for Ontario. Average Spending per person per night was $38.49 compared to $84.45 for Ontario. ELGIN's commercial accommodation occupancy, average daily rate and revenue per available room are not measured as in other destinations. It is safe to say that based on feedback from accommodators through the PRTDF survey ELGIN's occupancy is well below the provincial average of 65%. Quarterly distribution of total visitation is distributed as follows: -4- The destination has a few experiences that have been ranked as "Number 1, "Best in Class" or "top tier." St. Thomas's railway heritage could be classified as best in class due the distinction as Canada's Railway Capital. FINDINGS. FUTURITY While there may be market demand for the products and experiences available in the destination, namely touring small towns and villages, heritage experiences, enjoying an active waterfront and beaches for example little evidence is available to support the notion that ELGIN has been able to connect market demand with visitation. Many other Ontario destinations offer similar product and have more notoriety for offering these types of trips. Since 2001 total trips to the destination have declined. The St. Thomas - Elgin Tourist Association is the recognized Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) for the area. Marketing represents 70% of STETA's $90,000, 2006 operating budget. STETA does have marketing projects which covers the past and future marketing plans; while very basic it provides stakeholders with the key strategies the DMO will employ within a given year. It also identifies the budget for the activities. The County of Elgin Economic Development and Tourism Services Department plans to develop a better plan with the PRTDF project completed, using information collected. In the past five years $11,220,100 million (reported) has been invested in facility renewal and I or expansion and development with an emphasis on products that are directly or indirectly associated with tourism. Spending by all visitors generated $15,218,000 in direct, indirect and induced contributions. In ELGIN this generated $7,336,000 of labour income and salaries and 273 part-time, full-time and seasonal jobs. Source: CTS/lTS Statistics 2004 RECOMMENDATIONS & ACTIONS Based on the findings and noted observations the following recommendations have been deveioped for the consideration of the Economic Development and Tourism Service Department: )> Implement a process for the creation of a ELGIN Strategic and Marketing Master Plan for Tourism o This plan incorporates the recommendations identified in the PRTDF report, this becomes the benchmark framework for destination development within ELGIN )> Grow tourism development and marketing budgets by exploring the possibility of introducing a volunteer destination development I marketing fee, this needs to be researched and discussed with intentions to implement in 2009 should agreement on this action be reached . )> Support the recommendations made by the St. Thomas Innovations Team pertaining to downtown St. Thomas revitalization and the CASO project, this represents a significant opportunity for ELGIN )> Introduce an annual visitor survey to track visitor experiences, initiate in 2008 - 5- ~ Understand current travel motivations / behavlours of visitors as identified in the 2006 Travel Activities and Motivation Study and match these motivators with the products featured in ELGIN ~ Increase awareness of the importance of tourism among the tourism industry, business leaders, influencers, residents and elected government officials ~ Identify tactics to extend length of stay - facilitate industry partnership through workshops that encourage the packaging of tourism experiences among industry operators ~ Improve accessibility and way finding within the destination through Increased signage on major tourist transportation routes to downtowns ~ Encourage long term improvements to ELGIN's accommodation base including development of new properties and upgrades to existing properties ~ ELGIN currently has a tourism brand "Incredible Elgin, Ontario's South Coast". In-light of the work that will be initiated in 2008 to develop an all encompassinq brand for ELGIN, the process must ensure such a brand exercise incorporates and reflects ELGIN's tourism proposition and attributes NEXT STEPS The Premier Ranked Tourist Destination project has provided a clear appraisal of ELGIN's position in the tourism marketplace and a benchmark to measure future performance. A critical finding in other Ontario jurisdictions that have implemented the recommendations arising from their PRTDF projects is having tourism industry "buy-in" and more importantly, proactive industry involvement in future strategic planning. The destination is encouraged to communicate the findings and recommendations to all involved in the tourism industry. This Project was facilitated in partnership with Employment Ontario and funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Ontario Ministry of Tourism. ST. THOMAS - ELGIN TOURIST ASSOCIATION ( County of Elgin & CityofSt. Thomas 'I 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario, N5R 6V1 519- 631-1460 ext. 137 Prepared by I BRAIN Im!m MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS -6- / ELGIN ST. THOMAS PUBLIC HEALTH April 24, 2008 Honourable Steve Peters 542 Talbot St St. Thomas ON N5P 1 C4 tP>~ ~~ /~'t?.. tr':"'J !j n It 1"";"';1. WI" tJ~1i tt~':1 f:~;,;..~; }i~~~l h 't{/ ~:: N~,~u A po c, ", ~008 H 1\ t.. 0 t. Dear Mr. Peters: '~"?)rIJ,""f'tf('~"~' f" np' "~;\' vr~ ~ .3t', ~:U,1!r>l f, h""'W', i'" >il'i",' \""1'11111'-1'" iH);::j";:1'L';; t -nn ~. ';J t', ,)~(" v~;~:~ Prolonged wait times for admission to long term care facilities is posing a serious risk for the health and safety of the citizens of Elgin County. As the Acting Medical Officer of Health for this county, I believe this is a serious public health issue. I urge you to improve long term care access and funding to ensure that vulnerable residents of this county can receive the services they require and deserve. People waiting in their home for admission to long term care facilities are in a potentially dangerous situation. They may not be receiving care such as nursing care, medical care, wound care, physiotherapy, nutrition or stimulation that is necessary to maintain or improve their health status. This makes them more likely to suffer an illness or injury that requires admission to an acute care facility such as the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital. The family members and loved ones caring for a person waiting for a long term care placement are also at risk. The work involved in providing care can be both physically demanding and emotionally draining. In addition, caregivers often are unable to take the time to go to their physicians to get their own health needs met. For these reasons it is not unusual to find that it is the caregiver that is admitted to the hospital with a stroke, heart attack or other potentially preventable illness or injury. When the caregiver of a person waiting at home for placement becomes ill, it often results in both people needing hospital care. Utilizing acute care beds for the care of persons best managed by other services has created a problem at St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital that is nothing short of a crisis. This past season the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital has seen a record number of such patients. Currently there are over 60 patients admitted to this hospital who are waiting for a long term care placement. Elgin SL Thomas Public Health 99 Edward Street, SL 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 Hon. Steve Peters April 24, 2008 Page 2 An acute care hospital is not the appropriate place for such patients. They cannot receive the stimulation and socialization they require for good mental and physical health. While the Complex Continuing Care Centre area of the hospital is a better alternative, there are not nearly enough beds in that unit to meet the staggering needs. The situation was made more complicated when London Health Science Centre (LHSC) was given 1A designation by the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care. This means that the patients in LHSC that are awaiting placement in a long term care facility have priority for beds located within a radius that includes Elgin County. Therefore, the patients at LHSC have priority over Elgin County residents for placement in long term care beds in S1. Thomas and Elgin County. This is not based on the need of the patients requiring a long term care bed or the length of time they have been waiting in hospital. This puts Elgin County residents and S1. Thomas Elgin General Hospital patients at risk. Further, a number of the long term facilities in S1. Thomas and Elgin County, including Valleyview, Elgin Manor, Bobier Villa and Terrace Lodge are publicly funded and paid for by S1. Thomas and Elgin County tax payers. Our citizens do not even have priority to access the long term care facilities that they have helped pay for. The in-hospital wait for long term care beds at S1. Thomas Elgin General Hospital puts the health of all the citizens of Elgin County at risk. The increased time that patients in the Emergency Department spend waiting for a bed in the hospital increases the time other Emergency Department patients wait for service. There is also great pressure to discharge people from hospital very quickly due to the bed shortage. Today, in fact, important surgeries have had to be delayed or cancelled due to the shortage of beds. Thus, wait times for admission to long term care is posing a serious risk for the health and safety of all residents of Elgin County. This crisis needs to be addressed promptly. We need more long term care beds and improved access to the ones we currently have. While enhancing in-home services is important, it will not replace the need for 24 hour care that is provided at long term care facilities. .~.. "'" -~ ~ 1l'ic~d?~__~~~ ~._=",. ~... ~~~C&. _ '= _ .""' im lWZ. - ~~ ~m"~ """"'~c:"~~~--"'...c-;:,"'-"'"'"-~~::..___ __-~ ""0"4""%W,,,P" . - ~- ~ - Hon. Steve Peters April 24, 2008 Page 3 Long term care facilities are an important component of health. They need the attention and funding to ensure that they are accessible and can provide the quality of care that our citizens need and deserve. Thank you for your attention. I look forward to your response. Sincerely, .~~-1-~ "&L-/4~~ Dr. Sharon Baker Acting Medical Officer of Health cc. Minister George Smitherman Board of Health Elgin Sl. Thomas Public Health County Council . City Council Sl. Thomas Elgin General Hospital Board of Directors LHIN 2 SB:vom ~~~...:.'<'f)>"'~~:,.'=_ -- 1",~j~- .~~~ - '-W~,i2':_:::W-M'&;~~~_~,,-._~_-_ Fll~E f:~gE~ ~ '~vl [~~ ij::~ @ EarthTech MAY - 2 2008 285 King Street, Suite 300 London, Ontario N6B 3M6 Canada p 519.673.0510 F 519.673.5975 www.earthtech.com A 1:LJCa International Ltd. Company ~1'" '" Fe''''! Co',''''' l:"~ i\ln, <. .{ \~ 1:::: ~ \, .' 1~" i~" \ "J t" \lJ::..,.,'d' !, ',,~j ""Q>;.-' It i\DMiN\~,Tf1ATIV~ :;,EHV1Cf,S City of Sl. Thomas Water Pollution Control Plant Wa!>tewater Management Master Plan (2008) Class Environmental Assessment (Schedule C) Notice of Project Initiation Notice of Project Commencement The Study The City of Sl. Thomas, through its consultants Hydromantis Inc. and Earth Tech Canada Inc., has initiated a Class Environmental Assessment (Class EA) study for the Upgrade and Expansion of the City of Sl. Thomas Water Pollution Control Plant (WPCP). Background The Sl. Thomas WPCP (see attached Figure) provides domestic and industrial treatment for 36,000 residents within the City of Sl. Thomas as well as provides treatment for a population of approximately 950 people from the surrounding suburban area, the Municipality of Central Elgin and the Township Southwold. The 2003 Master Plan Update Growth Needs Report (Hydromantis) recommended an expansion to the WPCP treatment capacity to satisfy the City's future growth and associated sewage flow, the timing of which would be dependant on actual growth. New development has occurred at a rapid pace since 2003 and is expected to continue in the foreseeable future. Currently, the plant is operating well within the approved rated capacity. Based on recent population projections, the WPCP may reach capacity sooner than originally anticipated. These factors, combined with the need to serve committed and planned growth, has led the City to initiate this Class EA Study that will address long term wastewater treatment requirements. The Process The study is being conducted in accordance with the requirements for Schedule "C" projects as described in the Municipal Engineers Association's "Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA)" document (October 2000 as amended in 2007). The Class EA process includes public and review agency consultation, an evaluation of alternatives and design concepts, an assessment of the impacts of the proposed improvements, and identification of measures to mitigate any adverse impacts. Upon completion of the study, an Environmental Study Report documenting the planning process followed will be submitted to the MOE and will be available for public review for a period of 30 calendar days. The public will be notified of the date, time and location of the filing of the Screening Report at the appropriate time through newspaper notices and letters mailed to those in the project's contact database. City of St. Thomas Water Pollution Control Plant Wastewater Management Master Plan (2008) Class Environmental Assessment (Schedule C) Notice of Project Initiation Public Information Centres Over the course of the study, two (2) Public Information Centres are planned. The first Public Information Centre is tentatively planned for early summer 2008 to present the project for review and comment. This Public Information Centre will provide background information on the study and present the various alternatives considered, including a comparative analysis of those alternatives. The second Public Information Centre is tentatively planned for early fall 2008. Representatives from the City of St. Thomas and Earth Tech Canada Inc. will be present at the Public Information Centres to answer questions and discuss the next steps in the study. Notification of the Public Information Centres will be provided at the appropriate time by means of similar advertisements in the local newspaper with notification to those included on the project mailing list. Comments Comments and information regarding this project are being collected to assist the project team in meeting the requirements of the Environmental Assessment Act. With the exception of personal information, all comments received will become part of the public record. Please contact either one of the following project team members if you would like to be included on the mailing list or have any questions or wish to obtain more information on the project no later than May 12, 2008: Mr. Mike Newbigging, M.Eng., P.Eng. Project Manager and President Hydromanits Inc. John Dewancker, P.Eng. Director, Environmental Services City of St. Thomas 210 Sheldon Dr Cambridge, ON NH 1A8 Canada PO Box 520 545 Talbot Street, City Hall Annex St. Thomas, ON N5P 3V7 Canada Phone: (519) 624-7223 Fax: (519) 624-7224 Email: newbigging@hydromantis.com Phone: (519) 631-1680 Fax: (519) 631-2130 Email:jdewancker@city.st-thomas.on.ca Mr. John Armistead, P.Eng. Senior Project Engineer Earth Tech Canada Inc. 300-285 King Street London, ON N6B 3M6 Tel: 519-963-5860 Fax: 519-673-5975 Email: john.armistead@earthtech.ca This notice issued on April 29, 2008. J::: ~ c U '" = E ~ 0 u -ci ::; J::: ro c .pi :8 '" :l- E (tl $ .= I.JJ Cl @ g. .... "" - s::: (I) E tn tn 1:(1) ca tn _tn 0..<( tn-- caOca E...- _ s:::. os::: (1)0 J: 0 E. 1-0s:::~ . s::: 0 ::::J - ... .... U) 00-'" ....;;>(1) 0::::Js:::J: ~=W 0 _ 0 1ft U) .- a.. w O...~ So ~ca C- o- o o- s::: ::::J :E ~ r./') r<r: ,:....- !c~ ~ ,-., ~~ Ministry of Transportation Office of the Deputy Minister Ferguson Block, 3rd Floor 77 Wellesley St. West T oronta, Ontario M7A lZ8 Tel: (416) 327-9162 Fax (416)327-9185 vNiw.mto.gov.on.ca Mlnlstere des Transports Bureau du sous-ministre Edifice Ferguson, 3 e etage 77, rue Wellesley ouest . Toronto (Ofltario) M7A lZ8 Tele: (416) 327-9162 Telecopleur (416) 327-9185 I/Nrw.mto.gov.on.ca Cop') 1U : 'ilTEUb 6-,hS(};<1~& . ~r0~ 14I1aW!!reJ:s/ot; tfd\ rlQurj;: l-':f~+-,-Mqj ~ Unlano ;ny&. April 11, 2008 Dr. Bonita Porter Chief Coroner for Ontario Office of the Chief Coroner 26 Grenville Street . Toronto, Ontario M7A 2G9 Dear Dr. Porter: RE: Inquest into the Death of Michael Hipson Deceased January 23, 2006, File #Q2007-52 Thank you for your letter of January 17, 2008, enclosing the verdict and recommendations made by the jury at the inquest into the death of Michael Hipson. . In all, three recommendations were directed to the Ministry of Transportation. Ofthese, the ministry will respond to one recommendation but believes the remaining recommendations are best answered by the municipality where this incident OCCUlTed. Over the coming months, ministry staffwill give careful consideration to recommendation #4, that the ministry consider amending S. 110 of the Highway Traffic Act (HTA) to require all municipalities to make over-dimensional vehicle permits mandatory, and that the ministry educate and provide assistance to municipalities on this issue. With regard to recommendation #6, Regulation 239 of the Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways of the Municipal Act speaks to the municipality's road inspection obligations. The regulation describes the patrolling frequency for each of the five highway classes. These inspections provide a visual assessment of the structUral integrity of the road which may trigger a more comprehensive assessment. Maintenance and inspection records are considered to be part of the patrolling operations. As well, municipalities are required to retain all documents based on Sections 254 and 255 of the Municipal Act 2001, c.25 as amended. Municipalities are required to establish retention schedules for inspection records, construction drawings and recoi:ds, based on the advice of their auditors. .../2 RECEIVED APR 1 82008 B. Poter -2- April 11, 2008 We believe that these standards are appropriate and adequately address the above issues of structural integrity and record-keeping. These standards were arrived at through extensive discussions with municipalities of all sizes and capabilities. However, the municipalities are not bound by Regulation 239. A municipality may choose to opt out of the minimum standard by preparing a plan that describes the municipality's alternatives and how it will adhere to that plan. This approach ensures that municipalities tailor their administration to the level of activity in their jurisdiction and to their fiscal capabilities. Since this event occurred in Elgin County, it would be reasonable that the county be asked by your office to review their road inspection processes and identify areas of improvement. With regard to recommendation #7, given this incident occurred in Elgin County, the municipality should address the issue of permits obtained during the course of a project. I respectfully suggest that you forward recommendations #6 and #7 to Elgin County as that municipality would be in the best position to address these recommendations at the local level. Below is the county contact and mailing address: Mr. Clayton Watters Director of Engineering Services Elgin County 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 5VI Both recommendations #6 and #7 should be coded as ''Not applicable to agency assigned". We will provide you with a response to recommendation #4 in advance of November 2008. On behalf ofthe Ministry of Transportation, I wish to express my condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Hipson, the victim of this tragic incident. Sincerely, ~-' Bruce~ Deputy Minister cc: Mr. Clayton Watters, Director of Engineering Services (Elgin County) CLOSED MEETING AGENDA MAY 13, 2008 Staff Reports: (attached) 1) Director of Engineering Services - Section 240.2 (b) personal matters about an identifiable individual-Tenant Lease