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June 24,2008 Agenda ORDERS OF THE DA Y FOR TUESDA Y. JUNE 24. 2008 - 9:00 A.M PAGE # ORDER 1st Meeting Called to Order 2nd Adoption of Minutes - for the meeting of June 10, 2008 3rd Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof 4th Presenting Petitions, Presentations and Delegations PRESENTATIONS: 9:00 a.m. Presentations to Brooymans Farms, Clovermead Bees & Honey and Weninger Farms Ltd., recipients of the Premier's Award for Agri-Food Innovation Excellence - Regional Award 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 Closed Meeting Items (see separate agenda) 10th Recess 11th Motion to Rise and Report 12th Motion to Adopt Recommendations from the Committee Of The Whole 13th Consideration of By-Laws 14th ADJOURNMENT 5th 2-17 6th 7th 18-22 23-25 8th NOTICE: July 8, 2008 July 22, 2008 LUNCH WILL NOT BE PROVIDED NO MEETING County Council Meeting Julv Outside Board Reportin~ Schedule: Councillor Marks - S1. Thomas-Elgin General Hospital Councillor Acre - Tillsonburg District Memorial Hospital REPORTS OF COUNCIL AND STAFF JUNE 24. 2008 Staff Reports - (ATTACHED) 3 Director of Engineering Services, Mill Creek Culvert - Sparta, Update 6 Manager of Cultural Services, Library Donation to "Helping Hands" 8 Manager of Cultural Services, Dutton Library Renovations 10 Director of Cultural Services, Leadership by Design Program 12 Director of Information Technology, County of Elgin Website Review 16 Director of Seniors Services - TL and EM, MOHL TC - Annual Accommodation Fee and Funding Envelope Announcement 2 REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Clayton Watters, Director of Engineering Services DATE: June 9, 2008 SUBJECT: Mill Creek Culvert - Sparta, Update CORPORATE GOALS: To build and maintain an efficient, affordable, effective and safe transportation network that accommodates the diverse needs of our communities and is able to support economic development and sustainable growth. To recognize and seize opportunities for improvement. INTRODUCTION: At the March 25, 2008 County Council meeting, Council approved the replacement of the Mill Creek Culvert and that it be included in the 2008 budget. Staff indicated that the replacement cost for the culvert was estimated at $300,000. This report will update Council on the geotechnical and civil engineering investigation since the March 25 meeting and construction methods proposed to replace the culvert. DISCUSSION: Since the March 25, 2008 County Council meeting a geotechnical characteristics assessment was undertaken on the Mill Creek culvert. The investigation was to verify the soils in the area of the replacement so that an evaluation of options could be assessed with information relevant with that specific area. After the geotechnical assessment was complete, geotechnical and structural engineers and the County engineer concluded that only two options required further information along with cost estimates, to verify the most cost effective and least risk solution for the culvert replacement. The first option is the normal or usual replacement method of a culvert, which includes as a minimum: excavation; culvert bed preparation; culvert installation; backfill and restoration of roadway and slopes. The second option is pipe jacking with a hand mining technique. This method requires pits for jacking and operations and a substantial jacking frame and pipe jacking at this location requires an increased control of the subsurface groundwater due to the groundwater table in relation to the pipe jacking. The estimated cost for the first option is $625/000 or the standard pipe replacement method and $650/000 for the second option or the pipe jacking method. Both estimates are significantly higher than the March 25 estimate due to the slope stability required/ improvements to the drainage system and existing soil conditions that have been discovered. Staff is recommending the second option/ pipe jacking/ because of the significant reduction in the associated risks. The open excavation method requires large/ 10 tonne/ compacting equipment to consolidate the replacement granular materials/ whereas with the pipe jacking method has a minimum amount of vibratory equipment. The pipe jacking method/ due to the close proximity of the old buildings in the area/ it is advisable the method with the least amount of ground energy transferring method be used. As an additional attribute/ Quaker Road will not be closed to traffic thereby preserving the local economy. Due to the pipe jacking method and the controlling of the subsurface groundwater/ a series of strategically located properly filtered/ educator well points that terminate at precise locations in the silty sand and or sandy silt are required. Otherwise/ the mining face could potentially become unstable and cause a health and safety issue for the workers/ and also the travelling public. Due to the consistency in the types of projects that the County completes/ having an open tendering process is considered acceptable. Due to the specific construction methods and specific contractor's staff are recommending for this project a direct negotiation with a pipe jacking contractor and a dewatering contractor should be considered. This is due in part because of the limited number quality contractors that complete this type or work. The dewatering and pipe jacking must be completed by specialist contractors employing qualified workman skilled in their trade. Purchasing services and materials by direct negotiations for Quaker Road culvert replacement would increase staffs comfort due to the human and property risks associated with working at this location. The County of Elgin purchasing policy states as follows/ Section 3.14 Direct Negotiation - Section 3.14.1 The required goods and services are to be supplied by a particular vendor or supplier having special knowledge/ skills/ expertise or experience. Staff will be making contact with two contractors that have the resources/ experiences and safety record that can undertake such a small project but with high risks. The complete scope of work in this project still requires a general contractor to complete some of the operations and co-ordinate the specialized activities. Staff will therefore prepare a contract tender package and advertise for a general contractor specifying the tunnelling and de-watering contractor to be used. The 2008 Capital Budget has allocated $300/000 towards the replacement of the Mill Creek Culvert. Now that a thorough investigation has been complete and a strategy selected, the revised estimate is now $650/000. The difference of $350/000 can be allocated from the Bridge Replacement Reserve, which has nearly $700/000 remaining. CONCLUSION: A stone and concrete culvert in Sparta needs to be replaced. Staff have completed an investigation of the site and have concluded and are recommending that due to the similar costs and a much greater reduction in risks that the County replace the Mill Creek culvert by pipe jacking method and that staff direct negotiations with two specialized contractors, pipe jacking and dewatering, and report to Council once the negotiations are complete. RECOMMENDATION: That the Chief Administrative Officer and the Director of Engineering Services be authorized and directed to negotiate with the contractors specializing in pipe jacking and well points; and also, That the funds for this project in excess of the Capital Budget allocation be allocated from the Bridge Reserve; and also, That staff report to County Council on the approved contractors and costs for the completion of the project. Respectfully Submitted Approved for Submission OovJdji " Clayton Watters Director, Engineering Services r (~V~r Mark G. McDonal . Chief Administrative Officer REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Brian Masschaele, Manager of Cultural Services DATE: June 3, 2008 SUBJECT: Library donation to "Helping Hands" CORPORATE GOAL(S) REFERENCED: To promote cultural services; To foster community partnerships. INTRODUCTION: The Elgin County Library recently donated discarded books to an organization called "Helping Hands of Antigua and Barbuda" for redistribution in the country. This report informs County Council about this donation. DISCUSSION: In 2007, staff at the Springfield branch of the Elgin County Library were approached by an organization called "Helping Hands of Antigua and Barbuda" about the possibility of donating discarded books to the country, a series of small islands located in the eastern Caribbean Sea. They expressed particular interest in encyclopaedias and juvenile books. The library regularly weeds and recycles such materials from the collection as new titles are added. Staff agreed to donate discarded books to the organization under the following conditions: . That there would be no costs to the County for shipping the items; . That there would be little or no impact on staff time to participate; . That they would be immediately stored in a non-County facility as items became available. Helping Hands was able to meet all of these conditions, partially supported by a $250 donation and in-kind support from the Canadian Auto Workers Local 1520 at Ford Talbotville. In total, approximately 2,500 books were donated to the organization. The books are now destined for a primary school and three public libraries on the island of Nevis located off the coast of S1. Kitts. The books were transferred to the organization in late May 2008. In making this arrangement, staff ensured that County policy was followed with regards to the disposal of surplus assets. The County's Purchasing Coordinator has determined that there is no re-sale value to discarded books which is why libraries across Ontario routinely send them for recycling. In this case, the library was able to find a better use for the materials at no cost to the County. Future donations to this and any other organization will be considered should the same conditions be satisfied. In bringing forward this report, staff would like to acknowledge the efforts of Collen Devos and Maria Smit of the Springfield Library for their volunteer efforts in facilitating this donation. CONCLUSION: This report informs County Council about the donation of discarded books to an organization called "Helping Hands of Antigua and Barbuda" for use in schools and libraries in the country. RECOMMENDATION: THAT this report be received and filed. Respectfully Submitted Approved for Submission S'" , ',' _.....~ c.....~~ (/",/1 -_.'yt," ""~,;~~:....,/ <:.::~.- ~... .......... Brian Masschaele Manager of Cultural Services r ,.d ) c)~LJ./~~,J Mark G. McDon ld Chief Administrative Officer ~ .~, \:.~/ ?~ ath~~~~ '. Director of Cultural Services REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: DATE: Brian Masschaele, Manager of Cultural Services June 3, 2008 SUBJECT: Dutton Library renovations CORPORATE GOAL/S) REFERENCED: To promote cultural services; To forge community partnerships; To recognize and seize opportunities for improvement; To provide innovative and collaborative quality service. INTRODUCTION: Staff are pleased to report that renovations to the John Kenneth Galbraith Reference Library - Dutton Public Library are now complete. This report gives Council an overview of the work completed. DISCUSSION: Council approved funds in the 2008 budget to complete further renovations to the John Kenneth Galbraith Reference Library - Dutton Public Library to compliment the installation of a new circulation desk in 2007. These further renovations are now complete and include the following features: . A new reference desk in a more prominent location adjacent to the circulation desk; . Wooden shelving with prominent display panels at the end of each; . Relocation of public access computers and a new stand up reference computer; . New furniture in reading areas; . Prominent lettering throughout the branch. Costs for these latest renovations came in slightly under the $40,000 approved for the project and were facilitated within a two week closure period for the branch in May 2008. Staff wish to acknowledge the contributions of the Municipality of Dutton/Dunwich to this project which include the following: . Interior painting using a new colour scheme; . New carpeting in high traffic areas; . Ceiling patch work; . Electrical upgrades; . Floor tiling adjacent to the circulation desk. The Municipality provided excellent and timely support to this project. Staff therefore recommend that a letter of appreciation be sent by the Warden to acknowledge this contribution. CONCLUSION: This report updates County Council on recent renovations to the John Kenneth Galbraith Reference Library - Dutton Public Library. RECOMMENDATION: THAT the Warden issue a letter of appreciation to the Municipality of Dutton/Dunwich for improvements to the John Kenneth Galbraith Reference Library - Dutton Public Library. Respectfully Submitted l:J~ ~ Q c19, _/ ... Brian Masschaele Manager of Cultural Services ~ ~--zs) ~d Cathy Bishop Director of Cultural Services Approved for Submission \.ft J c::'r~/.../~~ c41~ Mark G. McDo<<ald IF Chief Administrative Officer REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Cathy Bishop, Director of Cultural Services DATE: June 2,2008 SUBJECT: leadership by Design Program CORPORATE GOAL(S) REFERENCED: 1. To promote cultural services 2. To be recognized as a desired employer 3. To forge community partnerships 4. To provide innovative and collaborative quality service INTRODUCTION: Recently, the Ontario Library Association (OLA) received an Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) 'province wide' grant to undertake the research necessary to develop a minimum of 15 case studies to profile Ontario public libraries that are demonstrating excellence in leadership in community development. It is our hope that Elgin County Council will be receptive to the Elgin County Library participating as a case study for this unique project. DISCUSSION: The purpose of these case studies will be to inform the ongoing development of the Ontario Library Boards' Association's (OlBA) Leadership by Design program. This is a six month project. In the initial stage, a shortlist of libraries from across Ontario has been invited to participate as subjects for the case studies. In adherence with OTF guidelines, subject libraries have been selected based on the following criteria: . Award winning (Angus Mowat Award of Excellence; Minister's Award for Innovation; Other) . Demonstrating exemplary commitment to the economic, educational, cultural and/or social wellbeing of their communities through specific library service initiatives involving other community organizations . Small (serving populations of 20,000 or less), rural and/or remote Elgin County Public Library is one of the libraries on the shortlist. The project timeframe is from May 2008 to October 2008. Expectations: For each case study, project consultants request the cooperation of the CEO and Board Chair to: . Secure the library board's permission to feature their library as a case study . Schedule ONE day (maximum) in July or August 2008 for ONE project consultant + at least ONE OlBA Council member to visit their community to gather information for the case study . Arrange for the CEO, Board Chair (or his/her designate) and at least two other community leaders to be key informants during the site visit; . Review their case study, as drafted by the project consultants following the site visit, to ensure accuracy; . Participate in follow-up initiatives at OlA Super Conference, other forums and/or events, as required CONCLUSION: The Elgin County Library has been chosen as one of the 15 libraries in Ontario who have demonstrated excellence in leadership in community development and have been asked to participate in a study for the ongoing development of the Ontario Library Boards' Association (OlBA) leadership by Design program. RECOMMENDATION: THAT the Elgin County Library be authorized to participate in the "leadership by Design" program developed by the Ontario Library Association and; THAT one member of Council and the Director of Cultural Services meet with the project consultant on Wednesday, July 23, 2008 to discuss the library operations and; THAT the Director of Cultural Services be authorized to contact two community partners to be key informants during library branch site visits. Respectfully Submitted ,~~ Director of Cultural Services Approved for Submission ( //. ) ~~Lv(>>J!~ ,j, ark G. McDon Id r Chief Administrative Officer REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: AI Reitsma Director of Information Technology DATE: June 24,2008 SUBJECT: County of Elgin Website Review CORPORATE GOAL(S) REFERENCED: 1. To ensure fiscal responsibility and accountability 2. To forge community partnerships 3. To provide innovative and collaborative quality service 4. To recognize and seize opportunities for improvement INTRODUCTION: In September of 2007 the County of Elgin assumed ownership and management of the Elgin-St. Thomas Connects Portal. The County of Elgin will be undertaking a total redesign and redevelopment of its website within the portal as a result of the branding project currently underway. Before the redesign of the website can take place, it is prudent to determine if the systems that are currently being used to maintain the County website are appropriate. The purpose of this report is to provide a review of the systems currently being used to maintain the County website content and to make recommendations for the appropriate tools to be used going forward and the future operation of the portal. DISCUSSION: The County of Elgin has been managing its website content using the Docket system for over seven months now and several key issues have arisen that must be addressed. These issues are: 1. The unreliabilitv of the vendor who supplies the portal content manaqement platform. The vendor committed to delivering much needed platform upgrades on February 29, 2008. The upgrades were not delivered until May 30, 2008, three months late. During those three month County staff had difficulty contacting the vendor. The upgrades have, as yet, not been implemented because the vendor has been unavailable to provide training for the new features. Support from the vendor has also been an issue for other portal stakeholders who were dealing directly with the vendor. The lack of support and inability to deliver upgrades has resulted in the West Elgin Community Health Centre leaving the portal. The vendor has also changed phone numbers without providing a new phone number to the stakeholders, including the County of Elgin. County staff has learned that the vendor has moved his business from London to Toronto in order to work with a large client. It appears that the vendors commitment to the County of Elgin has significantly diminished to the point that staying with this vendor poses a significant risk to the County and to the portal stakeholders. 2. Docket does not provide Wysiwyg (What YOU see is what yoU qet) editing. Because of this users have difficulty in developing web pages that match the desired design. In order to have web pages match design knowledge of HTML and XML is required. This knowledge is not commonly possessed by the users that the platform is intended for. This issue will become especially critical as the County completes its branding effort. One of the steps in completing the re-branding of the County is to redesign the County web site to incorporate the new branding. In order for County staff to maintain department web pages in the most efficient manner, a tool must be made available that will allow staff to develop web pages with minimal assistance from Information Technology staff. 3. Docket does not provide the access control required to properly manage access to content. Experience with Docket has demonstrated that the security model implemented within the system does not meet the access and security requirements of the County. Because of the risks and issues identified above the County cannot continue to use Docket to develop professional looking and appealing content for its web pages. Staff has reviewed several other content management tools including: . Microsoft SharePoint and . Yfactor Acclaim . Adobe Dreamweaver and Contribute Analysis completed to date would indicate that the Adobe solution best meets the needs of users, addresses IT requirements and provides the lowest cost option. Staff is continuing to work with Yfactor, the firm that will be designing and developing the County's economic development web pages, to ensure that the Adobe product will meet the needs for that project. There will be an impact to the stakeholders of the portal. The County of Elgin will continue to support the Docket platform until the end of 2009 to allow the remaining stakeholders to migrate their content to another content management platform. The County of Elgin will not be continuing it's maintenance contract for Docket and as such will no longer be receiving support and updates for the product after 2008. The County of Elgin remains committed to the Elgin-St. Thomas Connects portal. It is important to understand what makes the portal a portal. The following is a list of functions that are important to a portal: . The ease of navigation from one member site to another . A common look and feel . A search function limited to sites within the portal . A community calendar . A business directory County staff feels that these functions can be maintained even though stakeholders may be using different content management platforms. For example, Google Search will be used to create a portal wide search engine and Google Calendar will be used to create a community calendar. These two products are either free or represent a very low cost when compared to the Docket counterparts. CONCLUSION: With the upcoming requirements to develop a County of Elgin economic development web page and branding, the County web pages will need to be redeveloped. A review of the current platform used to maintain content was performed and it has been determined that Docket is not the proper platform with which to develop web content. Staff is recommending that "Adobe Dreamweaver and Contribute" be used to develop any new web pages and that the County will continue to operate the Docket platform until the end of 2009 in order to allow stakeholders to migrate their content off of Docket. RECOMMENDATION: THAT the County of Elgin discontinue using Docket for web site content management and THAT the County of Elgin continue operating the Elgin-Sl. Thomas Connects Portal; and further THAT the County of Elgin continue supporting the Docket platform until the end of 2009. Respectfully Submitted ~' ~ .- ~7~'--' AI<2ma Director, Information Technology Approved for Submission v::J J_~ C1~~ ~ ,}lffi/ Mark G. McDonal !r - Chief Administrative Officer REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL From: Rhonda L. Roberts - Director of Senior Services-TL Pat Vandevenne - Director of Senior Services-BV Date: June 17, 2008 Subject: MOHL TC - Annual Accommodation Fee and Funding Envelope Announcement CORPORATE GOAL(S) REFERENCED: 1. To ensure fiscal responsibility and accountability INTRODUCTION: The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHL TC) has announced the 2008/2009 Accommodation Fee and Funding Envelope increase effective July 1, 2008. DISCUSSION: The MOHL TC has announced an annual increase for resident fees of all long term care homes. In addition, funding increase to the Accommodation and Raw Food envelopes were announced, all of which is effective July 1, 2008. The increase to the Accommodation fees represents additional revenues for each home are as follows: Bobier Villa $11,746.56 Elgin Manor $18,547.20 Terrace Lodge $20,608.00 Total Revenues $50,901.76 2 Funding increases to the Raw Food ($.15) and Accommodation ($.80) envelopes for each home are as follows: Raw Food Programs Bobier Villa $3,121 $16,644 Elgin Manor $4,928 $26,280 Terrace Lodge $5,475 $29,200 Totals $13,524 $72,124 CONCLUSION: The MOHL TC has provided an increase in annual revenues from resident fees and to the Raw Food and Accommodation envelopes. The estimated total increase for the County of Elgin Homes effective July 1, 2008 is $136,549.76. RECOMMENDATION: THAT the report titled; MOHL TC - Annual Accommodation Fee and Funding Envelope Announcement be received and filed. Respectfully Submitted Approved for Submission ~jU\~ Rhonda L. Roberts Director of Senior Services - TL /) J i..// (7)C-v-dw--6a;rA.../ jp.; Mark McDonald '0 Chief Administrative Officer f2- Lt/?'"lrl U ~~ Pat Vandevenne Director of Seniors Services, Bobier Villa CORRESPONDENCE - June 24. 2008 Items for Consideration 1. Lorna Buob, Clerk-Treasurer, Township of O'Connor, with a resolution requesting that the Federal Government commit to meeting the demands for the Canada Summer Jobs Program by guaranteeing a set number of positions and increase the funding accordingly. (ATTACHED) 2. Susan Greatrix, City Clerk, City of Waterloo, with a resolution calling upon the Provincial government to clarify and confirm that the 2008 Municipal Road and Bridge Infrastructure Investment is in fact a one-time infusion of funds and if this is the case that the government provide long term and sustainable infrastructure funding to municipalities. (ATTACHED) 3. Julie C. Oram, Director of Corporate Services/City Clerk, City of Belleville, with a resolution petitioning the Ontario Government to provide municipalities with additional powers to raise revenues to finance upgrades to municipal infrastructure, such as those provided to the City of Toronto, and including the opportunity to levy carbon taxes with such funds to be devoted to environmental projects. (ATTACHED) TOWNSHIP OF O'CONNOR R. R. #1 KAKABEKA FALLS, ONTARIO POT 1WO JUNE 9, 2008 NO.~ Moved by Lee Ann Nyqard Seconded by J. Vezina WHEREAS the Government of Ontario has increased the minimum wage three years in a row and will continue to increase this wage in the next two years; AND WHEREAS the Federal Government has reduced the number of summer job positions being subsidized through Canada Summer Jobs program due to the increase in minimum wage; AND WHEREAS small municipalities, small business and not for profit organizations are encouraged to provide valuable work and learning experiences for summer students in their communities; AND WHEREAS these same organizations continue to struggle with rising operating costs and without this funding are unable to offer youth in the community these positions; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Township of O'Connor requests that the Federal Government commit to meeting the demands for the Canada Summer Jobs Program by guaranteeing a set number of positions and increase the funding accordingly; AND FURTHER THAT this resolution be forwarded to the Rt. Hon Steven Harper, Prime Minister of Canada, Hon. Jim Flaherty, Minister of Finance, Service Canada, Ken Boshcoff, M.P. Thunder Bay - Atikokan, Joe Commuzzi, M.P. Thunder Bay - Superior North, A.M.O., and distributed through AMO to all municipalities in the Province of Ontario for consideration and support. Ron Nelson MAYOR [!] CARRIED o DEFEATED Lorna Buob Clerk-Treasurer Township of O'Connor Telephone: (807) 475-4761 Facsimile: (807) 473-0891 Email: twpoconn@tbaytel.net THE CITY OF I~" -=1 Waferloo RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CORPORATION OF THE CITY OF WATERLOO May 12, 2008 RE: 2008 Municipal Road and BridCle Infrastructure Investment WHEREAS the City of Waterloo is one of the Ontario municipalities who have been approved to receive funds in the amount of $1,308,003 from the Ministry of Transportation towards municipal road and bridge capital infrastructure renewal needs; WHEREAS towns and cities are where the people of Canada work and live and their long term sustain ability is at risk without an adequate infrastructure; AND WHEREAS provincial and national eccnomic prosperity is inextricably linked to the well being and prosperity of towns and cities; AND WHEREAS public ownership of infrastructure has shifted over the past 50 years away from the federal and provincial governments to become an increasing responsibility for municipal governments such as the City of Waterloo; AND WHEREAS the City of Waterloo requires revenues that grow with the eccnomy in order to contribute to the sustainability of its infrastructure; AND WHEREAS the Council of the City of Waterloo has introduced a number of initiatives such as ten-year capital planning, ccntinuous improvement, public private partnerships and a proposed capital investment ccntribution as the City's efforts to address the infrastructure deficit; AND WHEREAS the City of Waterloo has determined that its municipal infrastructure deficit is approximately $160 million over the next ten years; AND WHEREAS the City of Waterloo's infrastructure deficit would require a one time municipal tax increase of 40% to be fully funded; AND WHEREAS property taxes, for the most part, is a very regressive tax not based on economic growth, income or ability to pay; AND WHEREAS there is just a single taxpayer paying taxes to the different levels of government; AND WHEREAS, on average, municipalities collect eight cents of every dollar of total government collected taxes for the services they provide; AND WHEREAS there are federal and provincial surpluses projected over the next number of years; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT: 1) the Council of The Corporation of the City of Waterloo calls upon the Provincial government to clarify and confirm that the 2008 Municipal Road and Bridge Infrastructure Investment is in fact a one time infusion of funds versus an annual contribution and that if this is the case, that the Provincial government provide long term and sustainable infrastructure funding to assist the City of Waterloo and all upper, lower, and single tier municipalities in addressing their infrastructure roles and responsibilities; 2) copies of this resolution be forwarded to the Prime Minister of Canada, the Premier of Ontario, Federal and Provincial Ministers of Finance, Provincial Minister of Public Infrastructure Renewal, Federal Minister of Transportation, all Members of Parliament, all Members of Provincial Parliament, the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) and the Big Cities Mayors' Caucus of FCM; 3) all municipalities be enccuraged to pass motions supporting this resolution and forward to their relevant federal and provincial representatives." For further information, please contact Susan Greatrix, City Clerk The Corporation of the City of Waterloo 100 Regina Street South, Waterloo, ON N2J 4A8 Telephone: 519-747-8705 Fax: 519-747-8510 E-mail: soreatrix@citv.waterloo.on.ca CORPORATE SERVICES DEPARTMENT TELEPHONE 613-968.6481 FAX 613.967.3206 QCitp (If fJitUtbiUt 169 FRONT STREET BELLEVILLE, ONTARIO K8N 2Y8 May 8, 2008 Lilian Cheung Administrative Assistant via e-mail:.Icheung@amo.on.ca Dear Ms. Cheung: RE: Municipal Resolution - "Carbon Taxes" Motions Belleville Citv Council Meeting, Aoril14, 2008 This is to advise you that at the Council Meeting of April 14, 2008, the following resolution was approved. . REC. No. 290/08 WHEREAS it is becoming increasingly difficult for municipalities in Ontario to rely solely on increases to property taxes and user rates as the primary sources of financing needed for upgrades to municipal infrastructure; ANO WHEREAS the Ontario Government has provided the City of Toronto with opportunities to raise revenues through various means not available to other municipalities in the Province of Ontario; ANO WHEREAS there is growing support for the concept of "carbon taxes" as means to address global environmental issues; ANO WHEREAS municipalities should be empowered to raise funds to. finance needed upgrades to municipal infrastructure in ways other than just property taxes and user rates; ..12 AMO - Resolution Belleville Council Meeting April 14, 2008 Page 2 NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Belleville hereby petition the Ontario Government to provide municipalities with additional powers to raise revenues needed to finance upgrades to municipal infrastructure, such as. those provided to the City of Toronto and including the opportunity to levy carbon taxes with such funds to be devoted to environmental projects; AND FURTHER, that this resolution be forwarded to the Premier of Ontario, the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, and be circulated to all municipalities in Ontario. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Yours truly, _~ JC.AMCT Director of Corporate Services/City Clerk JCOlnh , DISCLAIMER This materia! is provided under contract as a paid service by the originating organization and does not necessarily reUectthe view or positions olthe Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMOl, Its subsidiary companies, officers, directors or agents. CORRESPONDENCE - June 24. 2008 Items for Information (Consent Agenda) 1. Premier Dalton McGuinty, acknowledging Council's support of the City of Kingston's resolution concerning the Zenn car and other electric automobiles for use on Ontario roads. 2. Jodi Woodrich, Administrative Assistant, City of Sl. Thomas, supporting Council's resolution concerning long-term care access and funding. (ATTACHED) 3. M. Bourque, Executive Correspondence Officer, Office of the Prime Minister, acknowledging Council's position regarding municipal infrastructure funding. 4. Hon. John Gerretsen, Minister of the Environment, acknowledging Council's support of the City of Kingston's resolution with regard to allowing Zero Emissions No Noise (Zenn) vehicles on Ontario roads. (ATTACHED) The Premier of Ontario Le Premier ministre de l'Ontario Edifice de ['Assemblee h3gisrative Queen's Park Toronto (Ontario) M7A1A1 ~ 'IIlm::m.y Ontario Legislative Building Queen's Park Toronto, Ontario M7A1A1 June 2, 2008 RECEIVED JUN - 4 2008 Mrs. Sandra J. Heffren Manager of Administrative Services County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 5Vl {"'~l j' p'V N; ~, rlH (.",\.,. ..;j~ ( . \-~J~ ~'h.,,1 r'i A;:Hi'!ffiISTRA1IV~ SERVICES Dear Mrs. Heffren: Thank you for your letter of May 13, informing me of council's decision to support the resolution of the City of Kingston. I appreciate your keeping me apprised of council's position. I note that you have also sent a copy of your correspondence to the Honourable Jim Bradley, Minister of Transportation. As this issue falls under his responsibility, I trust that the minister will also take council's views into consideration. Thank you again for the information. I welcome council's input on this or any other issue of provincial concern. Yours truly, ~ Dalton McGuinty Premier c: The Honourable Jim Bradley @ Richard J. Beachey Deputy City Clerk THE CORPORATION OflTImCIlYOF Office of the Clerk P.O.Box 520, City Hall st. Thomas, ON N5P 3V7 Telephone: 519- 631-1680 X 4125 Fax: (519) 633-9019 Wendell Graves City Clerk ST. THOMAS June 5th, 2008 RECEIVED Sylvia Hofhuis, Warden 405 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, ON N5R 5VI JUN - 9 2008 COUNTY OF ~L(;IN ADrllINISm~ TIVE SeRVICES Re: Long Term Care Access and Funding - County of Elgin - Resolution Dear Ms. Hofhuis: Please be advised that the Council of the Corporation of the City of St. Thomas passed the following resolution at the June 2, 2008 Council meeting: "THAT: Council support the County of Elgin's resolution regarding long term care access and funding." Should you require further information please contact April Gazda, Clerk's Depmiment at 519-631-1680 extension 4121. Sincerely, ~.(,llbcc~ ~;-~oodriCh Administrative Assistant ccl Honourable Steve Peters, MPP Elgin-Middlesex-London Elgin St. Thomas Public Health Office of the Prime Minister Cabinet du Premier ministre Ottawa, Canada KiA OA2 R. ~':;~. r,,:enlEP ~,<~ t~\~ ~ fj .~ ..~_~~;j May 21, 2008 JUN - 2 2008 ('/'IIIAIT'i Ill: I;: "1'1 "''''Vi,) , < ui ,..l:\,:t l~ ADhllNISTBATiVE SeHVICES 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 regarding municipal infrastructure funding. Please be assured that the views expressed in the resolution have been carefully noted, I have taken the liberty of forwarding a copy of your letter to the Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, for his information and consideration. Thank you for writing to the Prime Minister. Yours sincerely, /1L,~~. M. Bourque Executive Correspondence Officer Canada Office of the Minister Bureau du ministre JUN 11 2008 C'OUr,i'r'1 1'1<: ~l G'IN l'll!}<.;t ,,,, .' "i!1' ""." ^~R\)'1',r:<l. AOM1N\:;'.i)~~tV~t;\: l'ig..r,~ N] """",\.....f""'" Ontario Ministry of the Environment Ministere de l'Envlronnement -""",,,, fP< '< 1>. !i E~ il"'1t o 0"J.l[-' th.-;t~ ".)! ,41l!.} t a,E..u"1d~Jffstil \-1 - .~~ ' 13551. Ciair Ave. West 12th Fioor Toronto ON M4V 1 P5 Tel (411'1) 314-6790 Fax (416) 314-6748 135, avenue St. Clair ouest 12e etage Toronto ON M4V lP5 Tei (416) 314-6790 Telec (416) 314-6748 ENV 1283MC-2008-1990 June 3, 2008 Mrs. Sandra Hefft'en Manager of Administrative Services . County of Elgin 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas ON N5R 5Vl Dear Mrs. Heffren: Thank you for your letter of May 13,2008 enclosing a recommendation by the Council of the County of Elgin in support of the City of Kingston's resolution with regard to allowing the Zero Emissions No Noise (Zenn) vehicle onto Ontario roads. , As Minister of the Environment, I cet1ainly appreciate your suppot1 for reducing vehicle emissions. I am always supportive of technology that has environmental benefits and I assure you that our government is excited about the possibility of using low-speed cars with low emissions and ,a smaller environmental footprint. At this time, it is the Ministry of Transp011ation (MTO) which is taking the lead on this issue, and I was pleased to note that you copied the Honourable Jim Bradley, Minister of Transportation, on your letter. I trust Minister Bradley will take the County's comments into consideration. Thank you, again, for bringing your comments to my attention. The Right Honourable Stephen Harper, Prime Minister The Honourable Jim Bradley; Minister of Transpo11ation The Honourable John Baird, Minister, Environment Canada The Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transp011, Infrastructure and Communities Canada ' * 0761G(03f01j 100% Recycled Chlorine Free. Made In Canada CLOSED MEETING AGENDA JUNE 24. 2008 Staff Reports: (No Attachments) 1) Chief Administrative Officer, PowerPoint Presentation - Section 240.2 (b) Personal matters about an identifiable individual - "Succession Planning Part II" 2) Chief Administrative Officer, Section 240.2 (b) personal matters about an identifiable individual - Lease Administrative Services Department Administration BUilding 450 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas, Ontario, N5R 5V1 Phone: (519) 631-1460 Ext. 156 Fax: (519) 633-7661 County of Elgin www.elgin-county.on.ca Fax Fax: Phone: Re: Warden Hofhuis and Councillors Acre, Habkirk, Marks, Mennill, Warwick, Call Group #3 From: Mark G. McDonald mmcdonald@elgin-county.on.ca June 20, 2008 19 including cover sheet To: Additional Items for Council Agenda of June 24, 2008 Date: Pages: cc: Comments: Staff Reports: (attached) 1) Purchasing Coordinator- Multifunction Copiers Correspondence for Information: (attached) 1) AMO Conference August 24-27,2008, Ottawa Congress Centre and Westin Ottawa Hotel- 2008 "Program at a Glance" 2) St. Thomas Infrastructure Master Plans Notice of Study Commencement and Public Information Centre 3) Norma Schnekenburger, Chair, West Elgin Citizens' Group for Rural Education, thanking Council for its support and concern for rural community schools Confidential Reports of Staff: 1) Director of Human Resources - 240.2 (b) personal matters about an identifiable individual - Benefits 2) Chief Administrative Officer - 240.2 (b) personal matters about an identifiable individual- Lease - 99 Edward Street Confidential Reports of Staff: 1) Director of Human Resources - 240.2 (b) personal matters about an identifiable individual- Personnel Matter - Bobier Villa (verbal) REMINDER: Please remember to bring your Councillor Workload Survey for March, April and May to hand in. Thank you THE INFORMATION IN THIS FACSIMILE IS FOR THE NAMED RECIPIENT ONLY. IT MAY CONTAIN INFORMATION THAT IS PRIVILEGED, CONFIDENTIAL AND EXEMPT FROM DISCLOSURE UNDER APPLICABLE LAW. IF THE READER OF THIS MESSAGE IS NOT THE INTENDED RECIPIENT, OR RESPONSIBLE FOR DELIVERING THE MESSAGE TO THE INTENDED RECIPIENT, ANY DISSEMINATION, DISTRIBUTION OR COPYING OF THIS COMMUNICATION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. IF YOU HAVE RECEIVED THIS COMMUNICATION IN ERROR, OR THERE ARE PROBLEMS IN TRANSMISSION, PLEASE NOTIFY US BY TELEPHONE. REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL FROM: Sonia Beavers, Purchasing Co-Ordinator DATE: June 18, 2008 SUBJECT: Multifunction Copiers Coroorate Goals Referenced: To ensure fiscal responsibility and accountability. To provide innovative and collaborative quality service. To recognize and seize opportunities for improvement. Introduction: Starting in 2003 funds were allocated to replace the County's aging photocopiers. Quotes for the replacement copiers were obtained as per the procurement policy. The multifunction copiers that have been purchased are the same model, have the same features which are scan, fax, copy and print. Discussion I Conclusion: In 2008 the County of Elgin will be purchasing three new multifunction copiers that must have the functionality to integrate with the software that was purchased for the other County owned copiers. Staff are seeking Council's approval to single source this purchase. The Procurement Policy states; 3.12 (1) Single Sourcing, "In circumstances where there may be more than one source of supply in the open market, but only one of these is recommended for consideration on the grounds that it is more cost effective or beneficial to the County and where the expenditure will exceed $25,000 approval must be obtained from the Senior Management Team and County Council prior to negotiations with the single source." Some of the reasons why staff is suggesting a single source purchase is; a) standardization of product equals consistency for end users, b) Product and vendor performance, c) the product interfaces with the current software used for scanning and storing documents on the network, d) the setup and operation of the devices is complicated. Staff are familiar with the systems currently in place; adding another manufacturers model into the mix would require hours of training. Although there are other vendors that do offer the same software the copier model will vary. Bringing in a third party vendor could nullify existing warranties and may infringe on 1 proprietary rights for the software that require the use of a specific supplier. The vendor that supplied the seven last purchases has provided reasonable pricing, excellent customer service and technical support. The vendor is accredited by The Better Business Bureau which lists zero complaints from owners. For these reasons staff is asking Council's approval to single source the purchase of three multifunction copiers. Recommendation: THAT, the Single Source purchase of three multifunction copiers be approved. Respectfully Submitted Approved for Submission 6~~v~ r. . .. , " Purchasing Co-Ordinator c>(~~~ Linda Veger {/ Direc . \ Mark . C onald, Chief Administrative Icer 2 Page 1 of2 Ij'}Attachments can contain viruses that may harm your computer. Attachments may not display correctly. Donna Butcher From: To: Cc: Subject: FW: AMO Conference Program at a Glance Attachments: Cl orooramataalance final.Ddf(25SKS1 Mark McDonald Donna Sutcher Sent: Wed lS(06(200S 9:45 AM add to Friday fax as Fyi From: communicate@amo.on.ca [mailto:communicate@amo.on.ca] Sent: Tue 6/17/2008 9:48 AM To: Mark McDonald Subject: AMO Conference Program at a Glance TO THE IMMEDIATE ATTENTION OF ALL ELECTED OFFICIALS Leading Beyond Tomorrow AMO Annual Conference 2008 August 24 - 27, 2008 Westin Hotel and Ottawa Congress Centre, Ottawa The 2008 AMO Annual Conference asks delegates if they are "Leading Beyond Tomorrow"? With a program line-up that Includes: * Monday Keynote Speaker: Robert Harris. President of Robert Harris Resources Inc Building constructive relationships is a key success factor in any organization. It is also a measure of a strong community. Find out how your municipality can benefit from an innovative approach to managing relationships. * Tuesday Morning Keynote Speaker: Allan Gregg. Known to many as the host of "In Conversation With Allan Gregg..." on 1VO, Allan is a recognized and respected senior research professional and social commentator. Hear his thoughts on a variety of issues that affect municipalities today. * Premier Dalton McGuinty is confirmed to address the AMO delegates on Monday morning For a complete program at a glance (draft) please see the attached PDF or visit the AMO website at www.amo.on.ca If you have problems opening the attachment(s) please call AMO at (416) 971-9856. PLEASE NOTE AMO communications will be broadcast to the municipality's administrator and clerk. Recipients of the AMO https:/ Imail.elgin-county .on.calexchange/dbutcher/Inbox/FW:%20AMO%20Conference... 18/06/2008 Page 2 of2 broadcasts are free to redistribute the AMO broadcasts to other municipal staff and elected officials as required. We have decided to not add other staff to these broadcast lists in order to ensure accuracy and efficiency In the management of our various broadcast lists. DISCLAIMER These are final versions of AMO documents. AMO assumes no responsibility for any discrepancies that may have been transmitted with the electronic version. The printed versions of the documents stand as the official record. This message has been verified by LastSpam (httQJLwww.lastsoam.com) eMail security service, provided by Protek Systems www.proteksystems.com This email may contain confidential information. If you are not one of the intended recipients, if you receive this email or if it is forwarded to you without the express authorization of The County of Eigin, please destroy this email and contact us immediately. ~ Please consider the environment before printing this e.mail https://mail.elgin-county .on.ca/exchange/dbutcher/lnboxIFW :%20AMO%20Conference... 18/06/2008 , i /'-;', / , / Hapeyou registered for the conference yet? IltiQs~1iC\Wi ~':"...'<" ~t: ~ ~J;M~~;; A\lgust 24 to 27, 2008 Ottawa Congress Centre and \X{estin Ottawa Hotel Note: the program identified herein is subject to change, A full program with all details of the conference program, along with other information will be part of each delegates' registration kit 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. . Registration 7:45 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. . Exhibit Hall Open 2:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. . Elections S~~24 1:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. . Registration Open (Colonel By Room, Ottawa Congress Centre) 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. . Exhibit Hall Open (Ottawa Congress Centre) 8:00 p.m. -10:00 p.m. . Welcome Reception ~~2S 8:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. . Conference Opens - AMO Annual General Meeting and President's Address 9:00 a.m. - 9:45 a.m. . Keynote Speaker: Robert Harris, {(Why Can't We Just Get Alongr 9:45 a.m. -10:15 a.m. . The Honourable Dalton McGuinty, Premier of Ontario 10:15 a.m. -10:45 a.m. . Coffee Break 10:45 a.m. -11:30 a.m. . Keynote Speaker: Michelle Dagnlno, "leadership, Generational Diveristy & Connecting with Youth" 11:30 a.m. -11:45 a.m. . AMO President Candidates Speeches 12:00 (Noon) -1:15 p.m. . learning Lunches and Meet the Caucus Candidates 1:15 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. . Coffee and Dessert in the Exhibit Hall 2:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. . Howard Hampton, leader of the New Democratic Party (invited) 2:30 p.m. - 2:45 p.m. . Plenary Programming (TBC) 3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Concurrent Sessions . Welcoming Communities . Sustainable Building Practices . Provincial Municipal Fiscal and Service Delivery Review Technical Briefing . Pesticides Legislation . Restructuring in the Energy Sector . Trade Agreements 4:45 p.m. - 5:15 p.m. . John Tory, leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario (invited) Time TBC . Evening Reception 7:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. . Registration 8:30 a.m. - Noon . Elections 7:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. . Exhibit Hall Open Program at a Glance brought to you by: Association of Municipalities of Ontario 200 University Avenue, Suite 801 Toronto, ON, MSH 3C6 P: 416-971-9856 F:416-971-6191 E: amo@amo.on.ca ..hi. Al~l,dJtll)rt of ""unldp,\litiM oJ Onl,lnq ~~26 8:30 a.m. - 8:45 a.m. . AMO Federal Gas Tax Awards 8:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. . FCM President, Jean Perrault (invited) 9:00 a.m. -10:00 a.m. . Keynote Speaker: Allan Gregg 10:00 a.m. -10:45 a.m. . Coffee Break and Exhibit Hall Wrap-Up 10:45 a.m. -12:15 p.m. Concurrent Sessions . MPAC and Assessment: What's New? . Waste Management Part 1 . Energy Management Saves Money and Reduces GHG Emissions . Water Resources . Provincial Municipai Fiscal and Service Delivery Review Technical Briefing (repeat session) . AMO Federal Gas Tax Awards Showcase . Recreation and Your Community 12:15 p.m. -1:30 p.m. . Lunch Break 1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Concurrent Sessions . Waste Management Part 2 . Distributed Energy Projects Showcase . Integrated Human Services . Integrated Community Sustainability Planning . Alternative Financing and Procurement . labour Relations 3:10 p.m. - 3:15 p.m. . Election Results 3:15 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. . Honourable Jim Watson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing 3:45 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. . Ministers' Forum 5:00 p.m.- 6:00 p.m. . Province of Ontario Reception 6:30 p.m.- 7:30 p.m. . Pre-Banquet Reception 7:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. . AMO Banquet: Featuring Entertainment by Wayne Rostad W~~'J3 8:15 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. . Early Morning Sessions: Breakfast for the Mind 9:15 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. . Peter 1. Marshall Awards 9:30 a.m. - 9:50 a.m. . Honourabie Sandra PupateJlo, Minister of Economic Development and Trade (invited) 9:50 a.m. -11:00 a.m. . Economic Development Showcase and Round Table Discussion 11:00 a.m. . Introduction of new AMO President and Board, Conference Wrap-Up St. Thomas Infrastructure Master Plans Notice of Study Commencement and Public Information Centre RECEIVED The Study In 2006, the City of St. Thomas initiated a process to review and update the St. Thomas Official Plan. The assessment of the City's future land needs to meet demands for growth is a fundamental component of the Official Plan Review Process. Based on the most current growth projections, there will be a need to designate additional lands outside the City's current urban growth boundary for residential use to accommodate the forecasted housing demand. An initial study progran). looking at potential areas for growth was presented to the Public and other interested parties at a Public Information Centre on October 24th, 2007. On January 14,2008, the City of St. Thomas proceeded with the next phase of this work, which focuses on three potential Urban Expansion Areas as shown on the key plan as Areas 3, 4 and 6. JUN 1 8 2008 COUNTY O~ ELGIN ADM1NISTRAYIV~ SEBVlCtS Key Plan Ron McNeil line Ron McNeU line ~~ y..\9'(1.~t3'-I " . o "' l 2 ~ . ., " '" ~ D .c '" South Edgeware Road r " ~ "' ~ o . (.) "' ~ o E ro >- N t AREA 4 . " AREA 3 Detailed investigation is now underway to determine infrastructure requirements to service the potential Urban Expansion Areas, including water, wastewater, stormwater, transportation and transit. This work will identifY the infrastructure services needed in each area (e.g. roads, sewers, etc.) and the preferred way to provide the needed infrastructure. This work is being carried out to fulfill the requirements of Phases I and 2 Of th~ Municipal Class Environmental Assessment which is an approved process under the Environmental Assessment Act. The master plan results will be documented in a Water Distribution Report, a Functional Sewage Servicing Plan Report, an Addendum to the Mill Creek Subwatershed Study, an update to the Transportation Master Plan, and an update to the Transit Master Plan. This work will be incorporated into the planning work and approvals under the Planning Act required for the expansion areas. Obtaining Your Input We invite you to attend a Public Information Centre (PIC) to review and provide input on this project. At the PIC information will be available on the need for infrastructure improvements related to the expansion areas, the alternatives available to meet the infrastructure needs and the preliminary recommendations of the consultant team. Weare looking for your input on the information presented. Public Information Centre Date: June 23"\ 2008 Time: 5 :00 - 7 :30 P.M. Location: Douglas Tarry Room, St. Thomas Timken Community Centre, 2 Third Ave, St. Thomas If you are unable to attend the Public Information Centre, please contact us for the information that will be presented and to provide your comments. Final reports on the infrastructure improvements for the expansion areas will be available for your review in the Fall of2008. A Public Information Centre will also be held in the Fall of 2008 to present the proposed amendments to the Official Plan for the expansion areas. Study Contacts If you have any questions or wish to be added to the study mailing list, please contact: John Dewancker, P .Eng. Director, Environmental Services & City Engineer City of St. Thomas 545 Talbot Street, St. Thomas, Ontario N5P 3V7 519-631-1680, ext. 4165 jdewanker@city.st-thomas.on.ca Patrick Keenan Director of Planning City of St. Thomas 9 Mondamin Street St. Thomas, Ontario N5P 2T9 519-631-1680, ext. 4211 pkeenan@city.st-thomas.on.ca Ron Shishido, Project Manager Dillon Consulting, 235 Yorkland Blvd., Toronto, ON M2J 4Y8 416-2294646, ext. 2301 rshishido@dillon.ca West Elgin Citizens' Group for Rural Education RECEIVED County of Elgin Office ofthe Warden 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, ON N5R 5Vl JUN 1 7 2008 COUNTY OF ELGIN ADMINISH1J\.TIVE SEIWICES 12 June, 2008 Dear Sylvia, The Citizens' Group for Rural Education is committed to the value of education at small, community-based schools. They are an essential part of the process of maintaining vibrant, strong !Ural communities. We are heartened by the Council's support of our vision. We appreciated the Council's recommendation adopted on May 27,2008, and the invitation to attend the Council meeting on June 10. Please extend our thanks to the Council for their support and concern. Sincerely, r~ Norma Schnekenburger Chair Sustllining Communities through Conllllllni(r-bllserl, RUI'III Schools