2006/03/23
Council Information
*for period ended March 23, 2006*
*Municipal*
1. Hospital Bed Closure Meeting
2. Gas Prices in Niagara Falls
3. Project SHARE Go-Kart Grand Prix, May 6th
4. Kalar Road Pump Station, Basement Flooding Abatement Public Info Centre,
March 30th
5. Passage of Zoning By-law, 5165 Palmer Avenue
6. OMB Decision - 7715 Rysdale Street
7. OMB Decision - 4544 Crysler Avenue
8. Recreation Committee Meeting Minutes
9. Arts & Culture Committee Minutes
10. Ontario Building Officials Conference, Oct. 1-4th, Niagara Falls
11. Women's Place Sponsorship for 25th Anniversary
*Provinciall A.M.O.*
1. Niagara Parks Commission Parks Update
2. Tim Hudak re; N. Falls Bridge Commission
3. Tim Hudak re: Homestead Act
*Regional*
1. Notification of Waste Audits in Niagara Falls
2. Council Highlights
3. Police Services Board Report
'-~-------IT' ~ ..p-
"
*Resolutions*
1. TVN Niagara
2. Wholesale Gas Sector
3. Watertight Report
4. Glass Return System
5. Fiscal Gap
*Miscellaneous*
1. Breaking the Barrier Awards, May 31st
2. Ont. Family Fishing Weekend
3. CUPE - Child Care Plan
4. Closure of Quebec Postal Plant
5. Nova House Capital Campaign
._~~--~~-~ -------.-
Page lofl
~
Cathy Crabbe - Hospital Bed Closures Meeting
From: Cathy Crabbe
To: Carolynn Joannoni; Joyce Morocco; Selina Volpatti; Victor Pietrangelo
Date: 3/15/2006 2:47 PM
Subject: Hospital Bed Closures Meeting
Dear Aldermen:
Attached is a copy of a letter directed to: Drs. Girard, Zimakas, Harpur, Offerski and Reddy as well as Debbie
Sevenpifer and Heather Cross inviting them to join you, the members of Council who have agreed to sit on a
committee regarding the GNGH hospital bed closures.
It is my understanding Council' had wished to meet sooner than this, however, the originally scheduled meeting
during the week of March 13 (March Break) conflicted with many of the proponent's vacation plans.
J hope this late Friday afternoon meeting on March 31 is accommodating to your schedules.
Please let me know if you are able to attend the meeting.
Regards,
Cathy Crabbe
file://C:\Documents%20and%20Settings\Administrator\Local%20Settings\ Temp\GW}OOO... 3/15/2006
--- -- --n--
city Hall
4310 Queen Street
P.O. Box 1023
,ayor Ted Salcl Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5
web site: www.niagarafalls.ca
(905) 356-7521 Ext. 4201
Fax: (905) 374-3557
tsalcl@nlagarafalls.ca
March 15,2006
Dr. D. M. Girard
303-6453 Morrison Street
Niagara Falls, ON L2E 7HI
Dear Dr. Girard:
At a recent council meeting for the City ofNiagra Falls a motion was passed to
form a conunittee of the Mayor and interested members of Council to meet with
local doctors and nurses to create a plan to put forward to the Ministry of Health
and our local M.P.P. to keep the beds slated for closure at the Greater Niagara
General Hospital open.
To that end, I invite you to join me and the other members of the committee,
Aldermen Carolynn Ioannoni, Alderman Joyce Morocco, Alderman Victor
Pietrangelo and Alderman Selina Volpatti on Friday, March 31 at 3:30 p.m., City
Hall, Committee Rooms 2A and 2B for a full discussion of the issue and to
determine this committee's plan for addressing this urgent matter affecting our
community.
Please contact my office at 905-356-7521 Ext. 4202 to confirm your attendance.
I look forward to seeing you on Friday, March 31.
Sincerely,
~J~
R. T. (Ted) Salci
Mayor
RTS:cec
c: Aldermen Ioannoni, Morocco, Pietrangelo, Volpatti
-.- - ._----~ _._"_._,._-_._--_._-_.~--- '.
1.1 Bureau de la concurrence Competition Bureau
Canada Canada
Place du Portage I Place du Portage I Telecopieur-Facsimile
50, rue Victoria 50 Victoria Street (819) 953-8546
Gatineau (Quebec) Gatineau. Quebec Telephone-Telephone
K1A OC9 K1A OC9 (819) 994-7703
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Mr. Dean Iorfida '"
City Clerk :?
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P.O. Box 1023 ~:
Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5
Dear Mr. Iorfida:
Re: Gasoline Prices in Niagara Falls
I am writing with regards to your letter to the Competition Bureau of 22 February
2005 concerning the City Council's motion that a complaint be filed with the Bureau
regarding high gasoline prices in Niagara Falls. I regret the delay in getting back to you
about this matter.
In your letter, you noted that based on anecdotal information as well as a gasoline
price tracking web site, gasoline prices in Niagara Falls appear to be higher then in the
surrounding area.
The Competition BUfeau is responsible for enforcing the Competition Act. The
purpose of the Act is to maintain and encourage competition in Canada in order to
promote economic efficiency in the Canadian economy and to provide consumers with
competitive prices and product choices. As a statute of general application, it does not
attempt to regulate individual transactions between buyefs and sellefs. Rather, the Act
seeks to develop and maintain the conditions necessary for a competitive marketplace by
defining a number of anti-competitive pfactices. Some of these practices, perceived to
be necessarily anti-competitive, are prohibited as criminal offences. Other practices,
perceived to be potentially but not necessarily anti-competitive, are subject to feview and
remedial action by the Competition Tribunal. The Act does not provide the Bureau with
any fegulatory authority to decide the law or to compel entities to adopt a pariicular
course of conduct in respect of their activities.
The conspiracy provision, section 45 of the Act, prohibits agreements among
competitors that unduly lessen competition, such as price fixing arrangements.
However, the existence of similar prices Of price increases in a market does not, by itself,
provide reason to believe that an offence has been committed. In fact the case law
...2
Canada
'I "
-2-
surrounding section 45 makes it clear that the practice of firms simply following their
competitors' initiatives does not constitute a conspiracy offence.
Gasoline prices can vary from place to place because of differences in operating
or transportation costs, taxes, and local supply and demand conditions, notably the
number, size, and type of retailers.
To better assess this complaint, the Bureau obtained data from a number of
retailers, both independents and integrated refiners, with outlets in Niagara Palls and the
surrounding area. The data covers 41 stations in 9 communities within 35 km of Niagara
Palls over a period of nearly a year and a half. During this time, some of the stations
were opened, re-branded, converted, or temporarily shut down.
We have found that prices in Niagara Palls were not consistently higher than in
the surrounding area. Most of the time, prices in Niagara Palls were little more than, the
same as, or even less than prices elsewhere. For the place with the greatest price
differential, the observed difference in prices exceeded the average only about a third of
the time. Exceptionally great differences on only a few relatively short occasions raised
the average well above the more common level.
Events in local markets appear to account for most ofthe occasional spikes in
price differentials. Entry or re-branding of stations may precipitate local price wars for a
time. On several occasions, differentials spiked for a number of weeks following the
opening of a new station or re-opening of a station that had shut down temporarily in
another community.
Businesses are generally free to set their own prices, at whatever levels the
market will bear. High prices are a concern when they are the result of anti-competitive
conduct subject to the Act. Based on the available information, there is no reason to
believe that retail gasoline prices in Niagara Falls are the result of anti-competitive
conduct.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Yours sincerely,
~~
Richard Robicheau
Competition Law Officer
Civil Matters Branch
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February 23, 2006
City of Niagara Falls
Eric DionM City Hall
LyleC.lklhn 4310 Queen Street
ErJNStD. Codza P.O. Box 1023
JoIutlUlber Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5
&IfWiNlerS.GosQ/
.kmu R. Slrfldl
Fnm>_ Dear Mayor Salci;
PeurM.Cal/tJhM Thank you for your correspondence of February 17, 2006.
Iln<<C_
Guy A. ..... Rest assured that should the proposal of IDS Delcor Inc. to bring Junior "A" Hockey to
ROMIdL~ St. Catharines not succeed, we will contact you immediately in order to facilitate a
Lonw D.l1flnky Q.C meeting to discuss bringing Junior "A" Hockey to Niagara Falls. Thank you for your
BoMit~ continued interest in our project.
CuoI E. Boi~
DmmM.lh1lMtt
JoupItw.ZiftnbG Yours very truly,
Makoltn P. MacPMnotr
F""'''''''''''
lWbmY.CAJWu.nQ.C.
ee
EDClmd
cc: Mr. Steve Ludzik
Ms. Denyse Morrisey, Director of Parks, Recreation & Culture
Mr. Serge Felicetti, Director of Business Development
RZCD LAW FIRM llP
77 Cio/ Centre Drive. Suite 700. Misslssauga. Ontario lSB I MS
Telephone 905-848-61 DO Facsimile 905-896-1111
Mississauga - Kingston - W hit by
2006 SHARE Grand Prix Upadte Page I of2
. Cathy Crabbe - 4th Annual 2006 SHARE Grand Prix - Niagara Go-Karts
From: "Jeff Guarasci" <development@projectshare.ca>
To: <erinh@niagara.com>, <dtorretto@beatties.com>, <ghunt@fallsviewcasinoresort.com>,
<ccrabbe@city.niagarafalls.on.ca>, <bnewton@niagara2lstgroup.com>,
<kopperman@niagara2lstgroup.com>, <mdoan@niagara2lstgroup.com>,
<rfoss@niagara2Istgroup.com>, <wanderson@mortgageshopper.ca>,
<cnagy@morganfuneral.com>, <jim.ferraro@olsen-sottile.com>,
<anne.angelone@regional.niagara.on.ca>, <pam.gilroy@regional.niagara.on.ca>,
<andrew.bowles@regional.niagara.on.ca>, <brian.thompson@rbc.com>,
<c. batts@vintageinns.com>, <cknaus@americananiagara.com>, <parker@ripleys.com>,
<c1illey@cairncroft.com>, <angela _ bachert@hilton.com>, <robsmail@bellnet.ca>,
<cheryldurney@fallsview.com>, <zappil@tdbank.ca>, <bryan.butcher@scotiabank.com>,
<tantonio@cscu.ca>, <margaret.pirosko@rbc.com>, <john.mcgilvray@meridiancu.ca>,
<maria.dipompeo@firstontariocu.com>, <michael.gruyich@cibc.ca>,
<patrickroberto@bmo.com>, <andrea.easterbrook@rbc.com>, <bevh@bevhodgson.com>,
<anthony .Ieo@investorsgroup.com>, <cajucomd@citifinancial.com>, <asap@niagara.com>,
<Ijansen@sri.ca>, <fallschev@gmcanada.com>, <tcaputo@performancemercedes.ca>,
<banderson@performancecars.ca>, <tammi_ barkman@lpsg.com>,
<dominion@sympatico.ca>, <pmajcher@niagaralivery.com>,
<borderpontiac@gmcanada.com>, <ken _ milo@we.cytec.com>, <roussy@vaxxine.com>,
<rayblais@autovalue.on.ca>, <troberts@ivanhoecambridge.com>,
<jelston@walkerind.com>, <jason@cellphone.ca>, <lauram@niagara2lstgroup.com>,
'''Futino, Pat'" <Pat.Futino@cnpower.com>, '''Home Depot Mamie'" <jprokator@cogeco.ca>,
'''Race Announcer Mel Thompson'" <melthom@caninet.com>, '''Parks Commission Sarah
Wood'" <swood@niagaraparks.com>, "'Tim Hortons Shelley Oldfield'"
<Oldfield _ Shelley@timhortons.com>, <jguarasci@cogeco.ca>
Date: 3/10/20062:48 PM
Subject: 4th Annual 2006 SHARE Grand Prix - Niagara Go-Karls
11ft SHARE. www.proJectshare.ca D
. ._Co J _.w,~_ / .NfAGARAGOKNm~Y06.Z006 ~
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J ff G . Monday March
e uarascl PH: 905.357.5121 FX: 905.357.0143 EM: deve/opment@projectshare.ca Introduct.
Project S.HA.R.E. 4129 Stanley Avenue, Unit 2 Niagara Falls, Ontario, L2E 7H3
It's that time of year again!
I would like to welcome back past participants and new entries in this year's
edition of the SHARE Grand Prix. This year's race will be held on Saturday,
May 6 with a rain date scheduled for the following Saturday if needed.
As most of you are aware, the event is a fun filled day of racing in support of
Project S.H.A.R.E.'s emergency programs. Altogether, the event has raised
over $50,000 since it's inception in 2002. This would not have been possible if
file:IIC:\Documents%20and%20Settings\AdministratorILocal%20Settingsl Temp\GW} 000... 3/1012006
2006 SHARE Grand Prix Upadte Page 20f2
. not for the participation of community minded groups and businesses.
Once again, we are counting on you to enter a team in the 2006 SHARE
Grand Prix. A maximum of 20 teams are able to enter in the event, so don't RESTAURANl
wait too long to register! 6~
As a reminder and for new team interest, each race team will consist of 4
drivers and 1 pit boss. Every driver is guaranteed one race with the top 3
teams from each heat (4 qualifying heats altogether) qualifying for the final
race. Each team is asked to acquire pledges within the community in order to
enter the event. Campaign t-shirts and a barbecue is provided for each SHARE GRAN
participant on race day. .=
You can visit www.projectshare.ca for a complete pit boss package that
outlines the event in more detail for your reference. A team entry deadline to
register is tentatively set for March 24th (depending on registration response).
So don't wait too long to enter! Uiii~w
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at your
11111111 'nil
earliest convenience. @ AlA
Yours truly.......Jeff Guarasci - Community Development
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. 2006 SHARE Grand Prix Upadte Page I of I
.
.
Hi Jeff:
I am sure the Council will want to enter a team again this year to defend their title. Could you please hold a
spot for them until it goes to Council for approval (most likely March 20, the next meeting).
Thanks,
Cathy
about:blank 3/10/2006
-----,._------_._-._._._.~---------
CH2M HILL Canada Limited
255 Consumers Road
. Toronto, Ontario M2J 5B6
CH2MHILL Tel 416.499.9000
... Fax 416.499.4687
March 9, 2006
MrDean Iorfida
City Clerk
City of Niagara Falls
4310 Queen Street, Box 1023
Niagara Falls, ON, L2E 6X5
Re: Schedule B Class Environmental Assessment
Kalar Road Pump Station Sanitary Service Area Basement Flooding Abatement
CH2M HILL Canada Limited has been retained to assist the City of Niagara and the Regional
Municipality of Niagara to complete a Schedule B Class Environmental Assessment for the Kalar
Road Pump Station Sanitary Service Area Basement Flooding Abatement Project. This study is being
conducted in accordance with the requirements for Schedule B projects as described in the Municipal
Engineers Association's Class Environmental Assessment document Oune 2000).
City of Niagara Falls residents living in the Kalar Rd. Pump Station Sanitary Service Area have
experienced approximately three severe basement flooding events over the past four years as a result
of locally heavy rainfall events. The City of Niagara Falls has identified the need to provide measures
to reduce and/ or eliminate the occurrence of basement flooding and other damage associated with
stormwater overflows in the drainage basin of the Kalar Road Pump Station.
You are invited to attend a Public Information Centre (PIC) to review the solutions being considered.
The meeting will take the form of an open house. The meeting will take place:
Date: March 30. 2006
Time: 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Location: Niagara Falls City Hall, Committee Room 1
We wish to confirm the nature and extent of your interest in this study, and whether you are
interested in reviewing information as it is made available, and/ or the Environmental Study Report,
which will be available at the completion of the study. If you wish to continue your participation in
this study, please contact the undersigned at the above address, by telephone at 416-499-0090, ext.
346, or via e-mail at Sabrina.Coletti@ch2m.com.
Sincerely,
CH2M HILL Canada Limited
;/~ W.
Sabrina Coletti, MCIP, RPP
Environmental Planner
cc Geoff Holman, City of Niagara Falls
W 11 SlW '30. $)lll3U 5111H '!llIH
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CH2M HILL Canada Limited
255 Consumers Road
. Toronto, Ontario M2J 586
CH2MHILL Tel 416.499.9000
.II Fax 416.499.4687
March 16, 2006
Mr. Dean Iorfida
City Clerk
City of Niagara Falls
4310 Queen Street, Box 1023
Niagara Falls, ON, L2E 6X5
Re: Class Environmental Assessment Master Plan
City of Niagara Falls Pollution Control Plan and CSO Abatement Study
CH2M HILL Canada Limited has been retained to assist the City of Niagara Falls to complete a Class
Environmental Assessment Master Plan for the City of Niagara Falls Pollution Control Plan and CSO
Abatement Study. This study is being conducted in accordance with the guidelines for Master Plan
projects as described in the Municipal Engineers Association's Class Environmental Assessment document
Oune 2000).
The sewage and stormwater infrastructure that serves the City of Niagara Falls has been under increasing
stress in recent years due to new development and a growing tourism industry. This stress has led to
overflow from combined sewer areas and basement flooding issues. The City of Niagara Falls has
identified the need to undertake a comprehensive City-wide plan to determine the level of sewage and
stormwater infrastructure required to service the City in the future.
You are invited to attend a Public Information Centre (PIC) to review the solutions being considered. The
meeting will take the form of an open house. The meeting will take place:
Date: March 30. 2006
Time: 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Location: Niagara Falls City Hall, Committee Room 1
Please note that this PIC is being held in combination with the Kalar Road Pumping Station Sanitary
Service Area (Kalar Road) PIC. The Kalar Road project is a Schedule B Class EA that is subject to the
Pollution Control Plan (PCP) and is being completed in tandem with the PCP due to an urgency
associated with severe basement flooding in the study area.
:%:
We wish to confirm the nature and extent of your interest in this study, and whether you are interested in -
~
reviewing information as it is made available, and/ or the Master Plan Report, which will be available at ~
the completion of the study. If you wish to continue your participation in this study, please contact the '"
undersigned at the above address, by telephone at 416-499-0090, exl. 346, or via e-mail at P
Sabrina. Coletti@ch2m.com. ~
'"
Sincerely, 1?,
CH2M HILL Canada Limited ~
W. .....
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Sabrina Coletti, MCIP, RPP
Environmental Planner
cc Geoff Holman. City of Niagara
,. II
~ PLANNING ACT
NOTICE AND EXPLANATORY NOTE OF THE PASSING OF
ZONING BY-LAW NO. 2006-51
CITY FILE: AM-36/2005
THE CORPORATION OF THE CITY OF NIAGARA FALLS
TAKE NOTICE that the Council of The Corporation of the City of Niagara Falls passed By-law No.
2006-51 on the 6th day of March, 2006, under Section 34 of The Planning Act.
The purpose of By-law No. 2006-51 is to add site specific provisions (742) to the Institutional (I)
zoning of the property known as 5165 Palmer Avenue. The by-law will permit a clinic "as a
permitted use on the property. Please see the map on the back ofthis notice to locate the subject
property.
By-law No. 2006-51 is in conformity with the City of Niagara Falls Official Plan and is not the subject
of an amendment to the Official Plan.
AND TAKE NOTICE that any person or agency may appeal to the Ontario Municipal Board in respect
of the by-law by filing with the Clerk of The Corporation of the City of Niagara Falls not later than
the 30th day of March, 2006, a Notice of Appeal setting out the objection to the by-law and the
reasons in support of the objection, together with the Ontario Municipal Board filing fee of$125.00
in the form of a certified cheque or money order, made payable to the Ontario Municipal Board.
The Planning Act provides that only individuals, corporations and public bodies may appeal a
Zoning By-law to the Ontario Municipal Board. A Notice of Appeal may not be filed by an
unincorporated association or group. However, a Notice of Appeal may be filed in the name of
the individual who is a member of the association or the group on their behalf.
Notice of Appeal, including the filing fee, must be submitted by the date set out above in order
to constitute a valid Appeal. Failure to submit a complete Notice of Appeal or the fee of$125.00
or both, on or before the date set out above will result in an incomplete Appeal application and
will not be processed further.
A copy ofthe by-law is available in Planning and Development, City Hall, between the hours of8:30
a.m. and 4:30 p.m., if you wish to review it.
Dated at the City of Niagara Falls this 10th day of March, 2006.
Mw I~'WL
Alex Herlovitch
Deputy Director of Planning & Development for the City of Niagara Falls
4310 Queen Street, P.O. Box 1023
Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5
S:\ZONING\AMS\2005\Am-36\BYLA WPAS.NOT_wpd
. -~-~-_.~---_.~ _._~,._. -. ._-. - ---------.--....--- ...-.--...--.'-.- -----~----_.__.._--_..._._..._.- - .-. .-n--....------.-.--
SCHEDULE 1 TO BY-LAW No. 2006-51
Subject Land ~
Amending Zoning By-law No. 79-200
Description: Lots 9,10,11,29,30 and 31
and the Lane between McGlashan Crescent
and Palmer Avenue and between Lots 11 and 12 and 28 and 29 Plan 747 N
in the former Town of Niagara Falls, ~
now known as Plan 285 in the City of Niagara Falls,
in the Regional Municipality of Niagara
s
Applicant: 2071507 Ontario Inc. I:NTS
Assessment #: 272502000306700 AM-36/2005
K:\GI5_Requesls\2005\5chedules\ZoningAM\AM- 36\mapping.map February 2006
NII1G. HilLS CLERKS '06 0317 13:43
Ontario Commission des
Municipal affaires municipales
Board de I'Ontario
655 Bay Sl Suite 1500 655 rue Bay Bureau 1500
Toronto, ON M5G 1E5 Toronto. ON M5G 1E5 ~
Tel (416) 326-6800 Tel (416) 326.6800
Toll Free: 1-866-887-8820 Sans Frais: 1-866-887-8820 Ontario
Fax (416) 326-5370 Telec (416) 326-5370
www.omb.aov.on.ca www.omb.oQv.on.ca
March 15, 2006
Via Mail
Lynda Hendry
7671 Rysdale Street
Niagara Falls ON L2H 1 E9
Dear Ms. Hendry:
Re: OMB Case No. PL050985
OMB File No. C050329
Submission No. B23/2005/NF
Appeal By Flory Massi
Municipal Address 7715 Rysdale Street
Municipality City of Niagara Falls
It has come to the Board's attention that DecisionlOrder 0431, issued on
February 9, 2006 was not received by all of the intended recipients.
As such, the Board has enclosed a copy of DecisionlOrder No. 0431 for your
records.
Sincerely,
~':)
Leesa Kwong ,
Planning Assistant
Enc!.
cc. Flory Massi
Rose Aurora
Susan Scerbo
AI Heywood
Pam Gilroy
Dan lorfida
Brian Sinclair
Ken Beaman
II -
"
ISSUE DATE: Nl~FIllSClERKS'06031? 13:43
Feb. 9, 2006
. DECISION/ORDER NO:
0431 PL050985
Flory Massi has appealed to the Ontario Municipal Board under subsection 53(19) of the
Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. P.13, as amended, from a decision of the Committee of
Adjustment, City of Niagara Falls which granted an application by Rose Aurora numbered
B23/2005/NF and B24/2005/NF for consent to convey part of the lands composed of 7715
Rysdale Street, in the city of Niagara Falls.
OMB File No. C050329
APPEARANCES:
Parties Counsel*/AQent
Rose Aurora B. Sinclair"
City of Niagara Falls K. Beaman"
Flory Massi L. Hendry
MEMORANDUM OF ORAL DECISION DELIVERED BY S. J. STEFANKO
ON JANUARY 24. 2006 AND ORDER OF THE BOARD
Rose Aurora is the owner of property at the corner of Rysdale Street and
Hodgson Avenue in the City of Niagara Falls. It is municipally known as 7715 Rysdale
Street, has a frontage along Rysdale of 216.25-feet and an irregular depth of 94.81-feet
on one side (along Hodgson) and a depth of 98.55-feet on the other side. Ms Aurora
wishes to divide her land into three parts which are more particularly outlined as Parts 1,
2, and 3 on Exhibit 8 to this proceeding. Part 2 ("Part 2") is at the corner of Rysdale and
Hodgson and has a frontage of 80-feet by a depth of 94.81-feet. Ms Aurora wishes to
convey this part. Part 1 is immediately beside Part 2 and it separates Part 2 and Part 3.
Part 1 has frontage of 70.25-feet along Rysdale and a depth of 94.81-feet. This Part 1
is to be retained by Ms Aurora. Part 3 is immediately beside Part 1 and is also to be
conveyed. It has frontage along Rysdale of 66-feet and irregular depth of 94.81-feet on
one side and 98.55-feet on the other. The Committee of Adjustment granted Ms Aurora
consent to convey Part 2 and Part 3. Flory Massi has appealed the Committee's
decision but only in respect to Part 2.
- II i!
.
-2- PL050985
On behalf of Ms Aurora, Mr. Wilson, a planner with the City of Niagara Falls and
Mr. Hynde, a planner with the firm of Hynde, Paul Associates Incorporated gave expert
land use planning evidence. Their evidence was uncontradicted since Ms Hendry,
acting on behalf of Ms Massi, did not call any expert witnesses to testify in support of
the appeal.
Each of Mr. Wilson and Mr. Hynde touched upon the relevant provisions of the
Provincial Policy Statement, the Regional Niagara Policy Plan, the City of Niagara Falls
Official Plan and Zoning By-law 79-200. Mr. Hynde also testified as to the application of
s.51 (24) of the Planning Act to the proposed severance.
In reaching its decision in this matter, this panel finds the following evidence to
be salient and persuasive:
a) Part 2 meets all relevant performance standards set out in By-law 79-200;
b) Services to Part 2 are not an issue and the roadways in the area can
easily accommodate the proposal;
c) Exhibit 7 in this proceeding reflects numerous severances in the area
which have previously been approved;
d) The proposal meets the provisions of the City of Niagara Falls Official Plan
as well as the requirements of the Region and the provisions of the
Provincial Policy Statement;
e) During the course of this hearing, Ms Aurora indicated that she was
prepared to accede to the concerns of the area residents in relation to the
exterior side yard set back of any home to be built on Part 2.
This panel finds that the proposed severance respects the character of the
neighbourhood, is a sensitive infill development, represents sound land use planning
and complies with the provisions of s.51 (24) of the Planning Act.
Based on the foregoing, the appeal is dismissed and provisional consent for
partial discharge and conveyance purposes is granted conditional upon the following:
II -,
,
- 3 - PL050985
1. The frontage of Part 2 along Rysdale Street shall be enlarged to 81.5-feet
and correspondingly, the frontage of Part 1 on Exhibit 8 along Rysdale
shall be reduced to 69.75-feet;
2. Dedication to the City of Niagara Falls ("City") of a daylighting triangle
(free and clear of any mortgages, liens or other encumbrances) with 4.5-
metre (14.76-foot) legs at the Rysdale StreeUHodgson Avenue
intersection on Part 2;
3. Payment to the City of $300.00 for the future planting of two boulevard
trees;
4. Payment to the City for cash in lieu of parkland dedication of 5% of the
appraised value of Part 2;
5. Rose Aurora submit a solicitor's legal undertaking agreeing to register the
deed and consent form using Statement 101 under the Planning Act in the
E-Registration system and provide a copy of these documents to the City
immediately after registration;
6. Submit to the Secretary Treasurer of the Committee of Adjustment a
paper copy of the electronic registration deed for conveyance of the
subject parcel together with a copy of the deposited reference plan, for
use in the issuance of the Certificate of Consent;
7. Submit to the Secretary Treasurer of the Committee of Adjustment the
final certification fee payable to the Treasurer, City of Niagara Falls and;
8. All of the foregoing conditions to be fulfilled by January 23,2007.
In addition, based on the agreement reached between Ms Aurora and the area
residents, the minimum exterior side yard for any home built on Part 2 shall be 6-
metres.
II il ~_._._"._-
,
- 4 - PL050985
The Board so Orders.
"S. J. Stefanko"
S. J. STEFANKO
MEMBER
I. ----
ISSUE DATE:
. Mar. 08, 2006
DECISION/ORDER NO: IfIG. FRlLS CLERKS '06 0310 15:1& PL050826
0722
Ontario
Ontario Municipal Board
Commission des affaires municipales de l'Ontario
Margaret Meagher has appealed to the Ontario Municipal Board under subsection 45(12) of the
Planning Act, R.s.a. 1990, c. P.13, as amended, from a decision of the Committee of
Adjustment of the City of Niagara Falls which dismissed an application numbered A28/2005 for
variance from the provisions of By-Law 79-200, as amended, respecting 4544 Crysler Avenue
a.M.B. File No. V050383
APPEARANCES:
Parties Counsel*/Aaent
Margaret Meagher G. Cirillo
City of Niagara Falls K. Beaman*
DECISION DELIVERED BY M.A.F. STOCKTON
This is an appeal by Margaret Meagher from a decision of the Committee of
Adjustment for the City of Niagara Falls, which denied an application for variance from
the provisions of By-law 79-200, as amended, with respect to lands at 4544 Crysler
Avenue.
The Applicant wishes to obtain a variance to permit the reconstruction of a
garage to the rear of the residence on her property. The existing garage had fallen into
disrepair, and the Applicant commenced construction of a new garage on the existing
concrete pad, without a building permit. The old garage was 20 ft. x 20 ft., and was
constructed on the northerly and easterly property lines. Although the Applicant
proposed to increase the size of the new garage to 24 ft. x 26 ft., she intended to move
it in a southwesterly direction, so that a two-foot setback would be created on the
northerly and easterly property lines where one did not exist previously. The increase in
length would fall entirely behind her own residence.
The Applicant's property falls within the Central Business Zone in accordance
with Zoning By-law No. 79-200. This zone prohibits the construction of a detached
garage. However, the existing detached garage pre-dated the zoning by-law, and was
..
- 2- PL050826
therefore a legal non-conforming use. The Official Plan for the City of Niagara Falls
permits the extension or enlargement of a legal non-conforming use where certain tests
are met. Because the Applicant was attempting to "enlarge" the use, a variance was
required to authorize the construction already substantially completed.
The Applicant appeared before the Committee of Adjustment on June 28, 2005.
A sketch filed at that time supported the proposed enlargement, and set out the
dimensions referred to above. Based on this sketch, and upon reviewing the Official
Plan, the City's planning department was of the opinion that the proposal could be
supported. The hearing was deferred until July 19, 2005, and at that time, the
application was refused. The Applicant has now appealed that refusal to the Board.
At the hearing, Nancy Morningstar, a neighbour whose residence is sited to the
rear of the Applicant's property stated her objection on the basis that the sketch was
inaccurate. It is her contention that the new garage, rather than providing a two-foot
setback by being moved further to the south, was in fact located further to the north.
Mrs. Morninstar's property may be described as a "flag" lot, with the effect that her
residence is partly located behind the Meagher garage. Any relocation of the garage
toward the north has the effect of reducing her view of the street. Conversely, a
relocation towards the south, as suggested by the sketch, would improve her view of the
street. Mrs. Morningstar provided to the Board a series of photographs to demonstrate
her point.
A professional planner from the City's planning department gave his
uncontradicted opinion that if the new garage was sited in accordance with the sketch,
then it remained the City's view that the proposal was in accordance with the Official
Plan, and the Planning Act, and could be supported. If, on the other hand, the new
garage was sited more to the north, as Mrs. Morningstar asserted, the tests in the
Official Plan were not met, and the application should be denied.
In the Board's view, the photographs are not conclusive of the matter one way or
another. The only way to satisfy this issue is by way of a proper survey, since the
garage has been substantially completed. Rather than dismiss the application out-of-
hand, the Board is prepared to defer its decision to provide an opportunity for the
Applicant to provide such a survey.
.
- 3 - PL050826
Therefore, the Applicant is to provide to the City planning department a survey,
prepared by a qualified Ontario Land Surveyor, showing that the garage is located
substantially in accordance with the sketch provide to the City's planning department on
the May 18, 2005. The Applicant must then provide to the Board, within 90 days of the
date of this decision, a letter from the City stating that the City is satisfied that the
survey shows that the garage is located substantially in accordance with that sketch. If
that letter is so provided Board will authorize the variance and issue an order
accordingly. If such a letter is not provided within the said 90-day period, the application
will be denied and an order dismissing the appeal will issue without further notice.
"M.A.F. Stockton"
M.A.F. STOCKTON
MEMBER
RECREATION COMMITTEE
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2006
AT 7:00 P.M.
MACBAIN COMMUNITY BOARD ROOM
MINUTES OF MEETING
Present: Don Jackson, Chair, Paisley Janvary-Pool, Pat Mascarin, Glen Mercer, Rich Merlino,
Mick Wolfe, Paul Campi gotto, Alderman Jim Diodati, Joe Talarico, Dolores
Shwedyk (Secretary)
Rel!rets: Enzo Della Marca, Rob DeGiuli, Denyse Morrissey
Absent: Mike Verma, Reg Jones
1. Adootion of Minutes
Recreation Committee Meeting of January 10, 2006
IT WAS MOVED BY Glen Mercer, seconded by Rich Merlino, thatthe minutes ofthe meeting
of January 10, 2006, be approved as written.
Motion Carried
Alderman Jim Diodati advised that he would be e-mailing his notes on the Civic Pride Award to
Dolores Shwedyk.
2. Business Arisine from the Minutes of Januarv 10. 2006
Don Jackson advised that he received a card from Adele Kon thanking everyone for the beautiful gift
she received from the Recreation Committee on her retirement.
a) Update on Arena Fundraising Campaign for Additional Seating
Mick Wolfe updated the Recreation Committee on the progress of the Fundraising Campaign
Committee. He passed around a donor package which was put together by Parks, Recreation &
Culture, Community Development Coordinator, Rob McDonald which included information on the
campaign goals, site of the twin pad, donorrecognition levels, Twin Pad Arena Quarterly Newsletter.
Mick commented that there was great feedback and enthusiasm from the public when he attended
the Council meeting of January 23, 2006.
%
A discussion took place regarding the need for more than 200 I seats. It was noted that this ~
Committee agreed that the 2001 seats approved by City Council was inadequate to meet the City's ."
~
needs and in their opinion, a new complex should minimally contain the same number of seats that '"
are currently available in Niagara Falls Memorial Arena. A number ofthe members also commented ~
that they had received numerous complaints about the reduced level of seating in the new facility. '"
.
It was also noted that Staff will be preparing a report to Council on March 20, 2006, with the total ~
amount raised during this campaign. 00
"'-'
,...,.
(.Jl
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-2-
b) Strategic Direction ofthe Recreation Committee - Application for Activity Subsidy Fund For
Physically, Mentally, or Socially Challenged Individuals.
Suggestions were made to revise the above policy and remove the words, "Arts & Culture
Committee" from the entire application and policy because the Arts & Culture Committee do not
contribute to the fundraising of the monies that make up this fund.
IT WAS MOVED BY Paisley Janvary Pool, seconded by Pat Mascarin that the Activity
Subsidy Fund For Physically, Mentally, or Socially Challenged Individuals be amended by
removing any reference to the "Arts & Culture Committee" and submitting the Application
and Policy to City Council for its approval.
Motion Carried
3. Communications
a) Memo from Adele Kon regarding Arena Complex Development Steering Committee
b) 2006 Schedule of Meetings
IT WAS MOVED BY Paul Campigotto, seconded by Glen Mercer, that the above
communications be received and filed for information.
Motion Carried
4. "Action ReQuired" Items
a) City of Nial!ara Falls Recreation Committee Grant Application - Leadership Traininl!
i) Niagara Falls Red Raiders - National Coaching - Coaching Clinics, at Niagara
College on October 22, 23, 2005 and Stamford Collegiate on February 12, 2006. All
applicants are requesting funding.
. Joel Semour . Rick Rampado . John Morse
ii) Niagara Falls Boys Soccer Club - National Coaching - Coaching Clinics, at St.
Catharines Concord Club on February 5, 2006, February 19, 2006 and Brock
University on February 26, 2006.
All applicants are requesting funding.
. Tom Visca . Enzo Della Marca . Carlo Felicetti . Arni Lundale . Ron Smith
iii) Niagara Falls Girls Soccer Club - National Coaching - Coaching Clinics, at St.
Catharines Concord Club on February 5, and 192006.
All applicants are requesting funding.
. Bob Berlingeri . Darren Schmidt
-3-
IT WAS MOVED BY Paisley Janvary-Pool, seconded by Rich Merlino that the above
applicants be approved $45.00 each, subject to receiving an official receipt.
Motion Carried
b) City of Niagara Falls Provincial, International Competition
Grant ADDlication
i) Ontario Youth Dart Provincial Championships - Canadian Corp #104 Youth Dart
League. This event is to take place on March 10, 11, 12,2006 in St. Catharines,
Ontario. The Canadian Corp Youth Dart League is requesting financial
assistance.
IT WAS MOVED BY Paul Campigotto, seconded by Paisley Janvary-Pool that the above
applicants be awarded $399.00 to cover expenses ofregistration, subject to receiving receipts.
Motion Carried
5. Unfinished Business
a) Parks, Recreation, Arts & Culture Strategic Plan Update
Don Jackson advised that the next meeting with the Consultants will be on Wednesday, February
22, 2006, at I :00 p.m.
6. New Business
Glen Mercer distributed a one-page petition regarding Adult Skating in Chippawa Arena. He
questioned the procedure on how to get Adult Skating reinstated at the Chippawa Arena. After a
brief discussion, it was determined that Kevin Carr should be contacted, as he schedules the ice and
would be able to advise of the proper procedure.
7. Next Committee Meetinl,!
Tuesday, March 14,2006
MacBain Community Centre Board Room
8. Adjournment
IT WAS MOVED BY Glen Mercer, seconded by Joe Talarico that the meeting be adjourned
at 8:30 p.m.
Motion Carried
S:\Recreation Committee\Minutes\2006\February 21, 2006.'Npd
---~--~-~------"r-- --..
"ao" ~
Niagara Fal~ ARTS & CULTURE COMMITTEE
Canada ~
~ THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2006
~
7:00 P.M.
MacBAIN COMMUNITY BOARD ROOM
(7150 Montrose Road)
MINUTES
Present: Karen Akalu (Chair), Winston Heron, Philomena McCracken, George Vallo, Barbara
Buetter, John Harkness, Brian Smylski, Cynthia Roberts (Staff)
Ree:rets: Rick Rose, Mark Matthews, Alderman Wayne Campbell, Colleen McLaughlin, Dolores
Shwedyk (Secretary)
Assoc. Members: Erika Beattie, Carol Cowlishaw
Guests: Daniel Swift, Heather Kiemele
Deputation
Erika Beattie and Daniel Swift, Music Director, presented an interesting and informative dialogue on
the history and present day happenings of the Niagara Symphony. The Symphony is approaching its
60th anniversary. Their unique partnership with Brock University not only provides them with a home
but also provides many opportunities to work with the various departments in music, art and movement
education. Although housed at Brock U., the Symphony is considered a "Regional music resource
centre" with 52 professional musicians on their roster.
Daniel and Erika were thanked for their informative narrative, at which time Daniel and Erika left the
meeting.
\. Adoption of Minutes
. Minutes of January 26, 2006
IT WAS MOVED BY George Vallo, seconded by Philomena McCracken, that the minutes ofthe ~
meeting of January 26, 2006, be approved as amended.
Motion Carried .....
~
2. Business Arising i
~
0
3. Communications w
.....
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,.....
(J1
. 2006 Committee Contact List (deferred to next meeeting) .&
,.....
. Young Heritage Leaders Program Application - deadline March 10, 2006
. Stainless Steel Sculpture Donation Offer from Rod Dowling (verbal)
. Mayor's Youth Advisory Committee Film Festival April 27, 2006
----_._-_..~~-_._~ -...-.
-2-
. Mayor's Youth Advisory Committee Art Show - Sat., Sun., March 4, sm, 2006
. News Release - Premier's Award for Excellence in the Arts
. CAO Newsflash - Community Arts Matters
. Lundy's Lane Historical Society Meeting Dates
. Niagara Falls Museums - Time Travellers March Break Camp
IT WAS MOVED BY Winston Heron, seconded by George Vallo, that the above
communications be received and filed.
Motion Carried
4. Sub-Committee Reports
a) Planning Committee
Report dated February 2, 2006
IT WAS MOVED BY John Harkness, seconded by George Vallo, that the above Report be
received and filed.
Motion Carried
b) Program & Public Relations
No Report
Erika Beattie returned to the Meeting at this time.
c) Awards
Verbal Report by Philomena
. Wall of Fame
A lengthy discussion ensued regarding the draft Policy. Cynthia stated that the Policy
contradicts the Marketing Proposal (approved at the January meeting) as well as the ongoing
nominations from the Awards Committee. The issues are:
- deadline for nominations is July 31". (not on a month by month basis)
- the final nominees will be presented at the A&CC September meeting. (not on a monthly basis)
- no publicity as to the proposed nominees or voting at any time (not promoted on the Virtual Wall or
regular news releases)
- no current members of the A&CC can be installed on the Wall (Rick Rose has been removed as a
nominee at this time)
- Awards committee is disqualified from submitting nominees (the committee is currently submitting
one nominee per month)
Cynthia stated that the draft Policy is an excellent start and together, with the Procedures
document, the final drafts will provide a comprehensive "how to" work plan for the Wall. It is
important to take the time to do things right rather than proceed in two very different directions at the
same time.
The time-line suggests that the Committee could approve the final drafts of the Policy and
Procedures by the April meeting and present the Wall of Fame initiative to Council at that time. The
presentation could be the kick off for the marketing campaign to begin. This would include newspaper
coverage and Virtual Wall promotion. Until the actual Induction Ceremony, the web page could
promote /advertise the objectives of the Wall and include a nomination form for downloading.
-3-
It was agreed at this time that the Awards Committee would continue to compile nominations,
as far as doing the homework on the various people, but not to submit monthly nominations until
the Policy and Procedures is completed.
Action: * Cynthia will discuss a possible alternative Marketing Plan with Mark that would reflect the
new direction the Policy is taking the Wall.
* all members are to read the draft Policy and return comments to Brian by Monday, Feb. 21h
IT WAS MOVED BY Barb Buetter, seconded by John Harkness, that the Awards verbal report
be accepted.
Motion Carried
d) Finance
Action: The Finance Committee (3 Sub-committee Chairs) will meet to prepare a 2006 Budget, based
on $10,600 allotment. Cynthia will provide assistance in drawing up the final document.
e) Ad Hoc - CD Committee
No Report
f) Strategic Plan Update
Barb Buetter advised that the draft Community Consultation and Needs Assessment Reports were
reviewed by the Steering Committee. These documents will be made public at a future date. A Service
Deliveries Principles Workshop will take place in early April.
g) Regional Arts, Culture & Heritage Ad Hoc Committee Update
Karen advised that Regional Staffhave been hired to assist with the Cultural Mapping project. The
Bi-centennial Event is taking shape with Sue Forcier from the Niagara Falls PRe office who is on this
committee.
5. New Business
Brian Smylski volunteered to provide a deputation on the Niagara Falls Art Gallery at the March
meeting.
6. Information Sharing
7. Adjournment
IT WAS MOVED BY Barbara Buetter, seconded by George Vallo thatthe meeting be adjourned
and that the next meeting be held on March 23, 2006.
Motion Carried
S:\Arts & Culture Committee\Minutes\2006\February 23, 2006.wpd
--.-
Sica. ONTARIO BUILDING OFFICIALS ASSOCIATION
~fO bono "for the
March 8, 2006
Mayor, Ted Salci & Council
RE: Ontario Building Officials Association Conference "50th Anniversary"
Niagara Falls, ON, October 1- 4, 2006.
Your Worship and Members of Council:
The Ontario Building Officials Association (OBOA) represents over 2000 members in Ontario
and shares a unique relationship with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs & Housing (MMAH) by
providing education and training opportunities for the entire building industry. In addition the
OBOA has been accredited as an educational institute since 1994.
The OBOA has developed and currently maintains a certification program for its members.
Certified Building Code Official (CBCO) is a benchmark used throughout Ontario by many
municipalities to reflect education and experience necessary to perform as a Building Official.
Your Worship, you are invited to attend this year's OBOA Annual Meeting & Training Sessions
being held in Niagara Falls, Ontario, October 1 - 4,2006 and to participate as a co-moderator
during one or more of the 25 technical sessions being presented at the AMTS. This approach
was used very successfully in North Bay at the Association's "49th" Conference in 2005 and the
interaction between building officials and municipal politicians was very wannly received. We
recognize 2006 is a municipal election year and may influence your schedule availability.
Attached please find a copy of the OBOA's OBOA Journal # 69.
In addition your attendance would also include an invitation for yourself and a companion to the
President's Dinner on Wednesday October 4,2005 at which time your participation would be
acknowledged.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
/;~ ,
.T. (Terry) Hewitson, CBCO REct;v~;y~
President
cc. John Castrilli MAR 2 f 2006
Chief Building Official
IAYOR'S OFfiCE
6770 Davand Drive, Unit 46, Mlsslssauga, Ontario L5T 2G3 . Tel (905) 564-0364 . Fax (905) 564-0427 . www.oboa.on.ca
~-~-----_. -~..._.------_._--
/
February 2006 W9Mpt.~~
.w, 011 soUIlI NIAGARA INC.
City of Niagara Falls ~lj)l/dUmd-
Mayor Ted Salci
4310 Queen St Box 1023
Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5
Dear Mayor Salci and Councillors,
25th Anniversaru
Event Committee Women's Place of South Niagara Inc. has provided safe shelter and
Mary Turner, crisis intervention services to abused women and children for 25 years
at our Weiland Shelter. We plan to celebrate this achievement
Honorary Chair Friday, June 3()th, 2006 at Club Richelieu. We truly appreciate your
Canadian Tire
Financial Servlces continued support of our shelters and hope you will consider
supporting our Anniversary celebration. This special event will honour
Bob Muir past and present members of our Women's Place family while raising
Tom Snodgrass the needed funds to maintain our services.
Cathie Green In 1980, a feasibility study was conducted to identify the need for a
Diane Marcoux transition house in Weiland. It was apparent that a shelter was indeed
JoAnne Krick warranted for the Weiland area. On June 8, 1981 the shelter officially
Tamara Coleman- opened with 10 beds and one crisis line. An ad was placed in the
Lawrie newspaper and within one week the shelter was fuil. Today, the
Tammy Falovo shelter is fulU
Lori Conte Women's Place continues to provide vital services to families escaping
Charlene Pasquini violence across South Niagara, including Weiland, Port Colbome,
Margaret Kleinsmith Wainfleet, Dunnvil1e, Smithvil1e, Pelham areas, Niagara Falls, Fort Erie
Marg Gelka and Ridgeway. Our Weiland shelter has provided safety, counselling
and intervention services to more than 5,000 women and children
Kim Giammarco since 1981.
Dorothy Smith
Bev Tetampel I hope you will consider one or more of the opportunities that we have
Mike Seguin provided to celebrate our past 25 years of service to our community.
Nann Lecompte Please review the attached sponsorship form.
Yvon Labonte Thank you in advance for your time and consideration. Should you
have any questions please do not hesitate to contact the Development
Mission Office at 905 353 0361.
Statement
Women's Place of Sincerely,
South Niagara Inc.
strives to empower .~-....""'-..
abused women . I
and their children j \
by providing safe Ruthann Brown
shelter and .:.Cf -
intervention Executive Director
sernces. Women's Place of South Niagara Inc. W.r' ~~ '2 L\lIl6
')R'S OfF .,.
-----_._-~~ --
SPONSORSHIP LEVELs WqMJEN'S
~ PLACE
Q PLATINUM SPONSOR $5000.& OI!~INC.
..~
Full page ad in the event program
6 tickets to the event
Display space at the event
Recognition on promotional material
Opportunity to appear in media with Women's Place of South Niagara Inc.
Listed as sponsor on agency web site and in agency newsletter
Ql, 1,,[ ') ~~, } :\ ;{ A
'h page ad in the event program
4 tickets to the event
Display space at the event
Recognition on promotional material
Listed as sponsor on agency website and in agency newsletter
Q SILVER SPONSOR $1000.&
Yo page ad in the event program
2 tickets to the event
Recognition on promotional material
Listed as sponsor on agency website and in agency newsletter
Q BRONZE SPONSOR $500.&
Card size ad in the event program
Recognition on promotional material
Listed as sponsor on agency website and in agency newsletter
o Friend ... $500
Listed in the event program
Display promotional material at the event
Q I wish to purchase tickets for the event!!!
Tickets X $25 ~ $
Company Name to be displayed for Sponsorship:
Contact Name and Title:
Mailing Address for Tickets:
Phone: Fax: Email:
o VISA o MASTERCARD o Cheque to Women's Place of South Niagara Inc.
:ARD #: EXP: Signature:
~~
I.
~Nia~ THE NIAGARA PARKS COMMISSION
Par ....
An ~"q<A'lh<:o(;<)';<:mmcnlOr
O"l~rito .inn.> INfG
Parks Department Update Spring 2006
We need your help.... Parks Act and Section 38 of the Public
PARK WA TCH PROGRAM INITIA TED Transportation and Highway Improvement Act.
We hope you enjoy every minute you spend in the Under this legislation, permits are required from
many parks, gardens, trails, golf and other
facilities of Niagara Parks and we want to keep it Niagara Parks for such things as access (e.g. for
that way. Unfortunately. from time to time, mother a new home), placing, erecting or aiteration of
nature wreaks havoc or vandals abuse our efforts. buiidings, signs, fences, plantings. shorewells, and
To help us protect the parks and make your time docks or for sale of merchandise (e.g. fruit) or for
spent here safe and positive, please report things use of lands for up to 400 metres within NPC
you see that are amiss, so that we can make lands. Additional permits may also be required
corrections and improvements. from other agencies such as Niagara Peninsula
Conservation Authority or area municipalities.
For emergencies, you can reach Niagara Parks For permits or further clarification on the need for
Police at 905-356-1338. For less urgent matters,
call us at 905-356-2241 ext. 234 or email to one, please contact the Parks' Planning,
n pinfo@.niaqaraparks.com Properties and Environment Division at 905-356-
2241 x260.
Check Out Nature's Bounty Niagara: North America's Daffodil Capital
To find out what's happening within Niagara Parks
with regard to nature, conservation, and Niagara is the daffodil capital of North America
environmental projects, etc., check out our nature and the daffodil is the city flower of Niagara Falls,
website, that was accomplished thanks to the "
support from the Botanical Gardens Conservation
International. www.niaqaraparksnature.com
Special Project with Brock University
By now the Niagara Parks' mandate to "preserve
and enhance the natural beauty of the Falls and
Niagara River corridor for the enjoyment of
visitors, whiie maintaining financial self-sufficiency"
has a familiar ring locally. As part of this ongoing
responsibility, new strategies are being developed.
One such effort is underway with support from the
Great Lakes Sustainabilty Fund and the Habitat
Stewardship Program. Professor John Middleton
and several of his colleagues with Brock
University's DepartmentofTourism & Environment Canada. Niagara Parks has, since 1916, planted
are reviewing Niagara Parks' policies and plans for millions of daffodils along the extent ofthe Niagara
riparian (shoreline) land management and River. Watch for many more daffodils in spring
recreational impact on species at risk habitats 2006 that were planted last fall along the Parkway.
such as Niagara Glen. From this, strategies will be
developed to better protect environmentally Memorial Grove
sensitive areas of the parks and mitigate potential
recreational impacts. A new nature area was established May 6, 2005
Permits for What and Why? by planting native trees and shrubs celebrating
Arbour Day and the positive contribution of young
Niagara Parks is guardian for the Province of people in Fort Erie. This was a true community
effort involving the participation of:
Ontario of the lands along the entire Niagara . Benner Funeral Services
River. The river bed is under the jurisdiction of a . Fort Erie Chamber of Commerce
Licence of Occupation in the name of the . Fort Erie Secondary School
Commission. Niagara River Parkway is a . Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority
"Controlled Access Highway" under the Niagara . Niagara Regional Police
- ,. .-....."..
Page 2 Parks Department Update Spring 2006
. Town of Fort Erie appliances, park benches, picnic tables and
. The Niagara Parks Commission furniture. If you witness such activity, please
help by reporting it. If you have yard waste (e.g.
Late last fall Niagara Parks Horticulture staff grass clippings, brush) please dispose of it
added a split rail fence in a heritage style that properly through the Region of Niagara's Waste
matches the fencing at Chippawa Battlefield. and Recycling Service.
Memorial Grove was a site of interesting activity
during the War of 1812 and lies adjacent to Old A Botanical and Tropical Paradise Awaits
Fort Erie at the source of the Niagara River. Youl
Riverview or River Views? The Niagara
You might think this is an article promoting one of Parks
our newest dining venues at Niagara Parks, Botanical
RivelView Market Eatery, or maybe an editorial Gardens and
column for folks expressing their views. While School of
Riverview Is a great spot for casual dining and we Horticulture
are interested in the views of folks who live along is a family of
the parkway, this instead is about the ongoing students.
efforts to maintain views of th e river in an staff and
environmentally responsible manner. How do we alumni
go about this? Simply put, first priority for views whose
are pre-existing scenic overlooks, parkettes and passion for
other areas where folks congregate. A the art, science and mystery of horticulture is
compatible, but different priority, is to remove evident in superior education, research,
invasive exotic species that threaten the health of leadership and stewardship of their gift to the
local ecosystems, replacing them with native world - the Botanical Gardens.
species while at the same time being mindful of
the riparian (shoreline) buffer zone and erosion Since its inception in 1 936, horticultural
concerns. It is a delicate balancing act. In 2005 excellence has been the mandate of the School
we concentrated on the area south of Niagara of Horticulture. The three year Ornamental
Falls and anticipate continuing this work where Horticulture program offers a unique alternative
feasible. to post secondary education. It is a blend of
academic studies and practical training at
Additionally, in 2006, we will continue efforts along Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens.... a one-of-a-
the Queen Victoria Park moraine and will begin kind horticultural educational opportunity. For
efforts north of the falls. It needs to be understood more details about the school program visit:
that such work is undertaken in compliance with www.schoolofhorticulture.com
Commission policies and within budgetary
constraints as weather permits. We welcome you to visit our gardens, that are
created and maintained by a team of
West Nile Virus (WNV) Action Plan instructor/curators, School of Horticulture
students and seasonal gardeners. Each year,
Niagara Parks implemented its West Nile Virus new seasonal displays compliment existing
Action Plan in 2005 which was developed in collections and gardens. Due to our botanical
cooperation with the Regional Niagara Public garden status, most if not all, of our plant
Health Department and local municipalities. The material is labelled - to educate our students and
plan consisted of several activities including: visitors.
inventory and routine monitoring of potential
mosquito breeding sites, site assessment and The gardens are a perfect resource for you to
mitigation, a catch basin treatment program, and learn more about horticulture and discover many
assisting the Region in the delivery of its WNV new ideas that can be incorporated into your
awareness and education program. The own garden.
Commission will continue to work with the Region
and local municipalities to determine what steps This will be especially true at the
need to be taken in 2006 respecting WNV. Niagara Flower and Garden Show
No More Dump/ng Here taking place June 9,10,112006.
Thanks for your help. Over the last year with
your assistance we were able to reduce illegal For more information
dumping in our Parks of yard waste and brush www.niaQaraflowerandQardenshow.com
thrown over the riverbank, old tires, batteries,
~--"._._--~'-_._-~'.--._~~-"--,.y---
Page 3 Parks Department Update Spring 2006
In addition, thanks to the support of the Chrysanthemum Show and Bush
Botanical Gardens Conservation International, November. Cascade, Exhibition
Great Lakes Sustainability Fund, and Habitat Chrysanthemums.
Stewardship Program, it is now possible to Christmas Show
access our plant collection records by visiting December. Poinsettias, Cyclamen, Azaleas,
the Royal Botanical Gardens of Edinburgh Christmas Cactus.
Scotland's multi-site at
h ttp :llrb Q-web2. rbQ e. 0 rQ. u klfo rm slm u Itis ite2. htm I HERITAGE HAPPENINGS
The Butterfly Conservatory is a perfect escape McFarland House is iocated 2 km south of
from the cold in winter and is a place to bring Niagara-on-the-Lake on the north Parkway. Here
your family and friends anytime of the year! you can experience a taste of 1840's style and
Enjoy over 2,000 free flying butterflies in a pace. Explore the period dooryard garden.
tropicai setting where you will be thrilled to find Sample fresh home baking or relax and sip a
over 40-60 different species. See glass of Niagara wine at the McFarland Tea
www.niaqaraparks.com for more information and Garden. Mackenzie Printery & Newspaper
the hours of operation. Museum and Laura Secord Homestead are
Greenhouse - 60'h Anniversary located just two blocks from each other in
Queenston Village. In the restored home of rebel
New name, New exhibits publisher William Lyon Mackenzie, you. can
Our staff at The Niagara NIAGARA PARKS explore 500 years of printing technology, amid the
authentic ambiance of a period print shop. Laura
Parks Commission --- Secord was recently named one ofthe 50 greatest
greenhouses and exhibition Canadians. Visit her homestead and find out why!
conservatory extend a warm
welcome to all guests in ..111
2006. Our Victorian Old Fort Erie, iocated 1 km south of the Peace
conservatories presently Bridge, will be open daily from Victoria Day
feature an exquisite flower _II~J weekend until Thanksgiving weekend, Here you
show which is one of eight can step back into a time of red coats, black
seasonal plant exhibitions FLORAL powder and gray stone walls. Discover the sites,
that are carefully grown and sounds and smells of a War of 1812 garrison in
professionally displayed for action at this National Historic Site.
your free enjoyment. The SHOWHOUSE
Niagara Parks Floral Upcoming Events:
Showhouse is known world
wide for high quality exhibition displays in addition The Fenian Raid, 1866:
to a large tropical plant collection featuring Saturday June 3 and Sunday June 4
orchids, cacti and tropical birds. Each year over This year marks the 140'h Anniversary of the
160.000 plants are grown at our production largest Fenian Raid into Canada. At 1 :00 p.m. on
greenhouses that are used in themed seasonal both days there will be recreated batties. Battles,
bedding dispiays throughout the Niagara Parks. camps and displays are free to the public. For
more information call (905) 871-0540 or VISit
Spring Show Primula, Calceolaria, www.niaoaraoarks.com
Mid January to Easter.
Cyclamen, Cineraria, Schizanthus, Forced bulbs Tea & Literature at McFarland House:
and shrubs. June 12, July 17, August 14, 2:30 p.m. .
Easter Display . . Three insightful Monday discussions by literary
Easter Weekend, lasting 2-3 weeks. Easter lilies, scholar Yvonne McMorrough, accompanied by our
forced Spring bulbs, Schizanthus. delightful Afternoon Tea, will be presented at the
Hydrangea Show McFarland Tea Garden. Contact us at (905) 468-
May. Hydrangeas, Delphiniums, Foxgloves 3322 for program details.
Regal Geranium Show . , "Simcoe Days" at Mackenzie Printery &
June. Regal Geraniums, FuchSia, Caladiums.
Summer Show Newspaper Museum:
July to Mid September. Geraniums, Coleus, Mixed Saturday, August 5 to Monday August 7 .
Annuals. The Civic Holiday is known as Simcoe Day In
Reiger Begonia Show some parts of Ontario. Stop by the Mackenzie
Mid September, October. Begonias, Coleus. Printery on "Simcoe Day" and learn how the
nation's oldest printing press helped John Graves
-'.'--~'. --"--rw-- --_..-
Page 4 Parks Department Update Spring 2006
Simcoe shape the province of Upper Canada. For this beautiful home and tryout the baking from
more information call (905) 262-5676. the on-site bake shop.
The Siege of Fort Erie, 1814: For more information check out our 'Heritage Trail'
Saturday, August 12 & Sunday, August 13 on NPC's website at www.niaQaraparks.com
" Witness the battles Planning, Properties and Environment
of 1814 which The Niagara Parks Commission (NPC) is a self-
turned Old Fort Erie funded agency of the provincial government,
into Canada's established in 1885, and is responsible for the
bloodiest battlefield. maintenance of over 1,720 ha (4,250 acres) of
On-going events parkiand and roadways stretching 56 kilometres
throughout the along the Niagara River from Lake Erie to Lake
weekend a t Ontario. Our mandate is to preserve and enhance
Canada's largest the natural beauty of the Falls and the Niagara
1812 re-enactment. River corridor for the enjoyment of our visitors
Special lantern while maintaining financial self-sufficiency.
tours will be Maintenance
available after the of our parks,
Saturday evening battle. For tickets and roads and
information call (905) 871-0540. structures is
accomplished
The French and Indian War, 1764: without tax
Saturday, September 2 & Sunday, September 3 dollars either
As Ontario's oldest British fort, Old Fort Erie Every dollar you ~pend with us help5 federally,
participated in the closing chapters of the Seven preserve the nature and heritage oflhe Falls and provincially,
Years War. Pontiac, Roger's Rangers, Redcoats the Niagara River Parkway. Niagara Parks hA.~ regionally or
and French Marines all pay a visit to the Old Fort. operated without tax dollars since 1885. municipally.
Battles and camps free to the public. For more
information call (905) 871-0540.
The Celtic Festival: Saturday, September 9th
Old Fort Erie comes to life with the pipes, dancing Environmental Mission Statement
and heavy games. Established in July of 2000, with guidance from
the Ministry of the Environment, Niagara Parks'
Doors Open Niagara . Laura Secord Environmental Mission Statement sets out our
Homestead and Mackenzie Printery & commitment to the environment through
Newspaper Museum: stewardship and leadership. The Commission's
Saturday, October 14 and Sunday. October 15 goal is to improve environmental quality and
The Laura Secord Homestead will participate in sustainable development throughout the park
this much anticipated Bi-National Niagara's Doors system for the benefit of our visitors, empioyees,
Open weekend. Be a tourist in your own back and the public.
yard and discover the wealth of architecture and
wonderful stories that Niagara has to offer. For
more information call (905) 262-4851 or visit This newsletter is made pOSSible by the
www.doorsooenniaoara.com support of the Great Lakes Sustain ability Fund
and provided to update you on projects and
All Hallow's Eve at Old Fort Erie: plans for the Commission's Parks Department.
October 20 & 21 and October 27 & 28 Each Should you have any questions or comments,
Evening at 8:00 p.m. please don't hesitate to contact us.
Venture out to Old Fort Erie to experience the
traditions ofHallowe'en, brought to life through the (905) 356-2241 ext. 234
Ghosts of the Old Fort. This event sells out npinfo(\ilniaQaraparks.com ~ .
quickly! Reservations are required. For information For information about NPC Nla~
call (905) 871-0540. dates, hours and Par
upcoming events, please .+.
A McFarland Christmas: December 7 to 11 see www.niaQaraparks.com An agcnry oftlw G(l\'cmml-'11111f
The Garden Club of Niagara transforms Oulado ,in(,i~ 1885
McFarland House for the holiday season. Enjoy
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Queen's Pork Office: March 3, 2005
Room 347
legislative Bldg. COpy
Queen's Park Hon. HaMnderTakhar
Toronto, Ontario
M7A tA8 Minister of Transportation
Tel. (416)325.8454 77 Wellesley St W,
Fa, (416) 325.0998 3rd Floor, Ferguson Block
Toronto ON M7A 1Z8
Beomsville Action Centre:
Beomsville Town Centre - Open Letter -
(Commisso's Plaza)
4961 King Street East
UnitMl Dear Minister Takhar:
Beomsville, Onlorio
lOR 180
Tel. (905) 563.t755 As you may recall, March 23, 2006 marks the one-year anniversary of your
Toll fce" 1.800.665.3697 rather bizarre decision to name four Ministry of Transportation bureaucrats
Fa, (905)563,1317
from Toronto as the local Niagara representatives on the Niagara Falls Bridge
fort Erie Action Centre: Commission. As these terms come to an end, I renew my call for full local
County Fair Mall representation on the Commission.
200 Garrison Rd.
Unil21 Niagara residents hope that you have used the pasl year to reflect on your
Fort Erie, Ontario
l2A 556 poor judgment in breaking the 70-year tradition of naming active local
Tel. (90S) 994.1.T1M (846) community members to the Niagara Falls Bridge Commission.
Fa, (905) 994.1140
Dunnville Action Centre: All in all, Minister, the one-year anniversary is nothing to celebrate, Let's
231 Chestnut 51. review some facts.
DunnviUe, Ontario
NIA 2H2 In the April 27, 2005 edition of the Niagara Falls Review, Niagara Falls MPP
Tel, (905) 774-2533 Kim Craitor gave his support to your decision because he claimed that each
new Commissioner had been given a special assignment including studying
E-mail' homeland security, engineering and design, and the Commission's finances.
limhudak@niagoro.net
Website: If in fact Mr. Craitor was correct, I suggest that the one-year anniversary would
www.timhudakmpp.com be an ideal time to refease these long awaited studies.
Minister, you will also remember July 13, 2005. That was the day the Niagara
Falls Review revealed that the MTO civil servants appointed to undertake the
"thorough review" were not given any written directions or terms of reference
whatsoever.
, ../2
*
.---.--.-..--..-.----- .-
, - 2 -
Obviously scrambling to deal with the latest embarrassing turn, your Communications
Assistant told the Review that the commissioners were given directions verbally, not in
writing. Perhaps you should have been more careful and taken the time to give some
written directions, as an entire year has passed with no sign of active involvement of the
Toronto based Commissioners in lhe local community. There is no sign that a
"thorough review" has begun, let alone ready for public release.
Minister, I have tremendous respect for the work that Mr. McCuaig, Ms. Boeckner, Mr.
Smith and Mr. Hanmer do in their capacity as MTO civil servants working in Toronto.
However, I disagree with your judgement in appointing them instead of local leaders to
the Bridge Commission and your strange story telling to justify it.
The one-year anniversary is an ideal time for you to make amends for your poor
judgement. I strongly recommend you immediately engage local organizations like the
Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake Councils, the local Chambers of Commerce,
tourism groups and other interested parties to find real community-based leaders as
new Commissioners,
In closing, happy anniversary and please accept my best wishes.
Sincerely,
c:J
#"c-/>jjl''''' /,,,.-"', .'
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Tim Hudak, MPP
Erie-Lincoln
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1'11"'\ :J 82006
".iWOR'S OF,
FICE
MPP - Erie-Lincoln 6'
Queen's Pork Office: March 6, 2006
Room 347
legislati.. Bldg.
Queen's Park Niagara Falls City Council
Toronto, Ontario
M7A lAB P.O. Box 1023, 4310 Queen 8t.
Tel. (416) 325.8454 Niagara Falls ON L2E 6X5
Fa, (416) 325.0998
Dear Mayor Salci and Niagara Falls Council:
Beamsville Action Centre:
Beamsville Town Centre In the past few months, Ontario home owners have received a notice from the
(Commisso's Plaza)
4961 King Street East Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC). This notice has included
UnifMl
Beamsville, Onfario an up-to-date property assessment with significant increases in local values. In
lOR IBO your capacity as municipal representatives, you have been contacted by many
Tel. (905) 563.1755 home owners expressing their concern over skyrocketing assessments. I
Toll f""" 1.800.665.3697 believe that the calls, letters and emails about MPAC assessments over the
Fa, (90S) 563.1317
past few months likely exceed those of my previous nine years as MPP
Fort Erie Action Centre: combined.
County Fair Moll
200 Garrison Rd. I took the advice of taxpayers and municipal leaders to forge a reasonable and
Unit 21
Fort Erie, Ontario sensible solution to address skyrocketing property assessments. On March 1,
12A 556 2006, I introduced a Private Member's Bill, The Homestead Act. 2006, which
Tel. (905) 994.I.TIM 18461 will provide real protection for home owners from unaffordable assessment
Fa, (905) 994.1140 increases.
Dunnville Action Centre: I ask for your support for the Bill and seek your advice to improve it where
231 Che~nut St.
Dunnville, Ontario needed. Note that the legislation does not impair Council's ability to
NIA 2H2 determine tax rates. The Homestead Act, however, does seek to reinforce the
Tel. (905) 774-2533 Canadian value of home ownership by addressing rapidly increasing and
variable assessments.
E-mail:
fimhudak@niagaro.net If passed the Bill will:
Website:
www.timhudakmpp.com
. Cap increases in residential property assessments at five per cent per year, as
long as home ownership is maintained
. Allow homeowners to make up to $25,000 per year in home improvements
without triggering an assessment increase; and
. Provide a property tax break for seniors and the disabled by ensuring that
the first $10,000 of their home's value would not be taxed
.../2
*
'----~.-_rr_ Ii - .u.
- 2 -
In the late 1990s, Current Value Assessment (CVA) was brought forward in Ontario to
bring fairness to taxpayers. It addressed a long broken system that had Toronto
assessments based on 1940 land values, cities like Markham and Whitby in the 1970s
and Niagara in the 1990s. We were in a bizarre assessment world where people in
mansions had lower assessments than young families in modest homes.
But here we are almost ten years later in an environment that is quite different.
Rapidly increasing residential values were not the norm in 1997. In fact, only a few
years earlier we experienced declining property values in Ontario.
Today, a red hot housing market in many parts of the Province, land use restrictions
such as the McGuinty Government's Greenbelt and other causes mean that home
owners, such as those in Niagara Falls, are experiencing significant assessment
spikes. That is why Current Value Assessment could be improved by bringing in caps
on assessment increases.
Enclosed is a copy of The Homestead Act. 2006 for your review. I welcome Council's
feedback and any input on how to improve the Bill.
In closing, please accept my best wishes.
Sincerely,
Tim Hudak, MPP
Erie-Lincoln
-~-_.._~ " -.--.
./ ~@w~ ~@~@@)~@ :u:Iimdak
MPP Erie-Lincoln
Finance Critic
For Immediate Release
March 1st, 2006
HOMESTEAD ACT TO PROVIDE REAL TAXPAYER PROTECTION
MPP Hudak Introduces Legislation that would cap Residential Properly
Assessment Increases at 5 per cent per year
QUEEN'S PARK- Erie-Lincoln MPP Tim Hudak introduced his Private Member's
Bill, the Homestead Act, 2006, today to bring real protection to Ontario
homeowners facing rapidly increasing property assessments. The Homestead
Act, if passed, will cap residential property assessment increases at five percent
per year as long as home ownership is maintained. It will also support
homeowners who make improvements to their homes and provide a property tax
reduction for seniors and the disabled.
"Working families, seniors and young people are facing higher taxes, higher
home heating costs, increased user fees and escalating energy costs in Dalton
McGuinty's Ontario," said Hudak. "Rapidly increasing property assessments and
resultant property tax increases are simply unaffordable to the beleaguered
Ontario taxpayer."
Property assessments have skyrocketed in recent years, particularly in the recent
2006 assessment notices. The average assessed home in Ontario leapt from
$179,151 in the 2003 taxation year to $232,883 in the 2006 taxation year. This
past year, the average provincial assessment increase in the Residential Tax
Class was 14.35 per cent, with many municipalities reporting increases of 15-35
per cent. Individual homeowners have been shocked to receive assessment
increases of over 100 per cent.
"Homeowners need a much more predictable and transparent assessment
system. Seniors are increasingly challenged by the growth in their tax bill. Sadly,
many are being forced to sell the homes they built and maintained for decades."
said Hudak. "The Homestead Act will support the Canadian value of home
ownership."
.~ ,
. .... -- --
Among others, the three primary benefits on the Homestead Act, 2006 include:
. A cap on residential property assessment increases for tax purposes at
five percent per year as long as home ownership is maintained
. The ability for Ontario homeowners to make up to $25,000 in home
repairs, alterations, improvements or additions without facing an increase in their
property assessment
. Seniors and the disabled would not pay property taxes on the first $10,000
of assessed value for their principal residence.
"Seniors are very worried that they will be unable to stay in their homes because
of the unrealistic property assessments," said Judy Cutler, Director of
Government and Media Relations with the Canadian Association of Retired
Persons (CARP). "The Homestead Act will do much to allow seniors to stay in
place, as so many of them choose to do."
The Homestead Act would cover all residential property including cottages. It
would also allow the 5 per cent cap to remain in place if the owner were to
transfer ownership to a child or spouse. Finally, the Bill would require MPAC
(Municipal Property Assessment Corporation) to maintain a record of the current
assessed value of the land and provide a copy to landowners within 24 hours,
free of charge.
The system of province-wide Current Value Assessment (CVA) was designed to
bring fairness to Ontario taxpayers. In the current environment of rapidly
increasing residential assessments, proper protections for horneowners are
warranted.
Ontario Ombudsman Andre Marin is currently reviewing MPAC as a result of the
tremendous public outcry on the issue. To date, the Office of the Ombudsman
has received over 3500 complaints from residents across Ontario. Ombudsman
Marin's report will focus on the alleged lack of transparency in the property
assessment system and the integrity and efficiency of the decision-making
process. The report is expected in March, 2006.
Similar legislation to cap increases in residential property assessments exists in
Nova Scotia, Arizona, California, Florida, Michigan, Minnesota, Maryland, New
Mexico, Oregon and Texas.
-30-
Further information:
Tim Hudak
(416) 325-8454
II .---
IE5~(r;Ik~IT@ IDlIID cill ~ IT :u:llaak
MPP Erie-Lincoln
Finance Critic
For Immediate Release
March 1st, 2006
THE HOMESTEAD ACT, 2006
There is growing and widespread concern with Ontario's property assessment
system. Apprehension is mounting as a result of the large assessment
increases many Ontario homeowners received on their recent assessment
notices. These rapidly rising property assessments are putting significant
pressure on working families, seniors and the disabled who are already coping
with increases in taxes, home heating costs, user fees and hydroelectricity in
Dalton McGuinty's Ontario. In fact, in the last two assessments the average
residential property assessment in Ontario has risen approximately 30 per cent;
with some individual homes reporting increases in the triple digits.
Seniors and retirees on fixed incomes are particularly concerned about
maintaining ownership of their homes given rapidly increasing assessments
and resultant tax increases. Taxpayers justifiably point out that they are being
taxed on the unrealized capital gains of their homes.
MPP Hudak's proposed Bill would ensure a more predictable and transparent
property assessment systern. If passed in the Legislature, the Homestead Act
would provide real protection for working families, seniors and the disabled
coping with rapidly increasing assessments.
If passed. the Homestead Act. 2006 will:
. Cap increases on residential property assessments for tax purposes at
five percent per year. The annual five percent cap would be maintained
as long as the owner of the home remains the same. Once a home is
sold, the assessment for tax purposes would revert to full current value
assessment.
. Allow transfer of ownership within a family. If the residence were
transferred to a spouse or child of the owner, the cap protection would
remain in place.
. Create an incentive for home improvements. Currently homeowners are
concerned that repairs and improvements to their homes will result in
higher assessments and property taxes. Under the Homestead Act,
Ontario homeowners could make up to $25,000 in home repairs,
alterations, improvements or additions without causing an increase in
assessment. This protection would also act as a deductible for
improvements greater than $25,000.
I.
. Create a property tax reduction for seniors and the disabled. Under the
Homestead Act, seniors and the disabled would not pay property taxes on
the first $10,000 of their principal residence.
. Require MPAC to maintain a record of the current assessed value of the
land and provide a copy to landowners within 24 hours, free of charge
This legislation would cover all residential property, including cottages or second
homes.
What is MPAC?
Each year, the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) prepares an
assessment roll for every Ontario municipality. The Property Assessment
Division of the Ministry of Finance conducted the first assessment update of all
Ontario properties in 1997. This resulted in new assessed values for all
properties, based on a common valuation date of June 30, 1996. For the 2004
and 2005 taxation years, assessments have been updated to a June 30, 2003
valuation date. For the 2006 taxation year, assessments are based on a January
1, 2005 valuation date. In the future, assessments are to be updated annually
based on a January 1 valuation date of the year before the taxation year.
Where is MPAC Failin~?
Since its inception MPAC assessments have risen but have accelerated in the
two most recent assessments. Though the 2005 province wide average was
14.35 per cent, residents of numerous Ontario municipalities cite average
increases from 15-35 per cent. Property assessments have skyrocketed in
recent years, particularly in the recent assessment notices. The average
assessed home in Ontario leapt from $179,151 in the 2003 taxation year to
$232,883 in the 2006 taxation year. In addition, many homeowners claim to
have received assessments (1) with incorrect information about their
properties; and (2) that do not reflect the fair market value of their home
comparative to other properties in the community.
This is problematic because the ambiguity and volatility of the system offers
limited transparency or predictability for homeowners and promises to burden
many with an unaffordable property tax increases.
In today's environment of rapidly increasing assessment values, the time has
come to look at protections such as caps. A capping mechanisrn will ensure that
Ontario homeowners are protected from dramatic and volatile increases. Such
an example is already present in the Nova Scotia Legislature which recently
passed legislation in May of 2004 bringing a CAP Program into effect for the
2005 valuation. The cap is set by the Nova Scotia government at 10 per cent in
2005 and 10 per cent in 2006. Similar legislation to cap increases in residential
property assessments exists in Arizona, California, Florida, Michigan, Minnesota,
Maryland, New Mexico, Oregon and Texas.
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Further information:
Tim Hudak
(416) 325-8454
---.---"- .....-
SUPPORTIVE QUOTES
,/ Tasha Kheiriddin, Ontario Director of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, remarked,
"The CTF welcomes all efforts to reform the current property tax system, which
increases taxes unpredictably, with no relationship to services received. A capping
mechanism is an important part of ensuring fairness and stability for property
taxpayers."
,/ Bob Topp, Executive Director ofWRAFT commented, "In recent years we have
watched waterfront properties all across the province pick up an ever increasing
share of the property tax load. Assessment increases of 40 to 50% have become
the norm, causing massive and unpredictable tax increases for our
constituents. It is essential that these assessment increases be capped to bring
some degree of rationality to the property tax system. We feel the capping
proposal put forward by Mr. Hudak goes a long way towards achieving this
objective. It is also in the best interests of all residential property owners as it
reduces the volatility inherent in the present system."
,/ Gerry Brissenden, President of the Canadian Snowbird Association said, "I
applaud Mr. Tim Hudak on behalf of the members of the Canadian Snowbird
Association I thank him for his initiative in this matter. Seniors who are on fixed
incomes cannot keep paying the tax increases. 1 am pleased to see Mr. Hudak is
speaking up on behalf of seniors."
QUOTES IN THE MEDIA
./ Ottawa Mayor Bob Chiarelli wrote to Dalton McGuinty describing the assessment
process as "a mess".
,/ Ombudsman Andre Marin stated "Ihe public outcry on this issue is palpable. There are
profound concerns expressed concerning MPAC's operations which has caused me to
invoke the mandate of the office."
,/ Peterborough Councillor Terry Guiel commented on MPAC in the Peterborough
Examiner:
It's an unfair system that is supposed to increase revenue for municipalities that are
struggling to cope with the cost of the provincial downloading of services, Guiel said.
"They're using this as a dirty tool in the hands of the municipalities to fill the voids that
they're lacking to fill," he said.
,/ Les Morris, Lake Kasshabog Residents Association executive liaison:
"You are in the middle of a very serious tax revolt," Morris said "The burden of taxation
has shifted dramatically to lakefront property owners.
"We are not rich," he said. "A large percentage of cottage owners are retired, like
myself."
----,- I.
,( Councillor Eric Batten, Douro-Dummer Township:
"Somehow we've got to get it to Queen's Park and get it frozen and come up with a
different system," he said.
"Everyone believes that it's not equitable," he said. "Everyone believes that it's
not stable because of the ups and downs in the market."
,( "The system couldn't be worse," says Paul Hazel, co-founder of the newly named
Canadian National Taxpayers Coalition (formerly CAFTA, Canadian Advocales
For Tax Awareness).
,( Hamilton Councillor Art Samson is "mystified" and "perplexed" at how Hamilton
property values are assessed for municipal taxes.
,( Hamilton Councillor Bill Kelly feels trying to fight those values before the
Assessment Review Board is "daunting" and "not unlike the Inquisition."
,( Hamilton Councillor Tom Jackson says some residents are "shell-shocked" by
the increases in value set by the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation
(MPAC).
,( "The system is broken and needs to be fixed before taxpayers are hit with
another round of assessment increases," says Canadian Taxpayers Federation's
Tasha Kheiriddin.
,( Windsor lawyer James Branoff: In theory, if MPAC has enough sale prices to
work with, it should be able to get assessments right, Branoff said. However, if
sales are minimal -- which was the case on Boblo -- it's tough for MPAC's
computer program to determine assessments, he said.
,( JR. Piirainen in an Opinion Column in The Observer (Sarnia) wrote, "Mr. Bradley
does not appear to understand the relationship between MPAC, the flawed
legislation, and the need for residential property assessrnent tax caps. These
measures have been adopted in other jurisdictions and should be adopted in
Ontario. If Mr. Bradley had done his homework, he would understand that the
problem is much more complicated than simply referring it to the Ombudsman."
,( Gary Atkins, a WRAFT director and Indian Point cottage owner for 40 years:
Atkins said he welcomed the Ontario ombudsman's plan to examine MPAC's way
of doing things, results of which are due in four months. But he added it's time to
get rid of the figures this year altogether.
"The report's not going to tell (Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty) something he
doesn't already know," he said. "Taxation shouldn't discriminate against any
class of people. It's just such a random, indiscriminate process, and it calls in
question MPAC's whole process."
..
He said assessments are a subjective judgment call. "It's still too full of errors
and unexplained values. . . There are too many non-scientific elements in the
assessment process."
..
Ii
2ND SESSION. 38TH LEGISLATURE, ONTARIO 2' SESSION, 38' LEGISLATURE. ONTARIO
55 ELIZABETH II, 2006 55 ELIZABETH II, 2006
Bill 75 Projet de loi 75
An Act to amend Loi modifiant la
the Assessment Act Loi sur l'evaluation fonciere
with respect to homesteads a l'egard des patrimoines familiaux
Mr. Hudak M. Hudak
Private Member's Bill Projet de loi de depute
1st Reading March 1, 2006 Ire lecture 1 er mars 2006
2nd Reading Ze lecture
lrd Reading 3e lecture
Royal Assent Sanction royale
Printed by the Legislative Assembly Imprime par I' Assemblee legislative
of Ontario de l'Ontario
(1) ~
,.
EXPLANATORY NOTE NOTE EXPLICA TrVE
The Bill amends the Assessment Act with respect to assessments Le projet de loi modifie la Loi sur ['evaluation fonciere en ce
for a taxation year after 2006. qui a trait aux evaluations effectuees pour toute annee d'impo-
sition posterieure a 2006.
The Bill provides that the first $25,000 in repairs, alterations, Le projet de loi prevail que les premiers 25 000 S qui sont affec-
improvements or additions that an owner of residential land has les a des reparations, a des modifications, a des ameliorations ou
made will not be considered to increase the current value of the a des ajouts que Ie proprietaire d'un bien-fonds residentiel a
land for assessment purposes if the municipality in which the faits ne doivent pas servir a augmenter la valeur actuelle du
land is located or the Assessment Review Board does not disal- bien-fonds aux fins d'evaluation si la municipalite au est situe Ie
low, in the assessment roll, the value of the work done. bien-fonds au la Commission de revision de l'evaluation fon-
ciere ne rejette pas, sur Ie role d'evaluation, 1a valeur des tra-
vaux effectues.
The Bill also imposes a cap of 5 per cent on the increase that Le projet de loi impose egalement un plafond de 5 pour cent en
can occur in the assessment of residential land if the owner of ce qui a trait a l'augmentation de I'evaluation d'un bien-fonds
the land is the same as the owner of the land in the immediately residentiel qui peut etre imposee si le proprietaire du bien-fonds
preceding taxation year or is a child or spouse ofthat owner. est Ie meme qu'au COUTS de l'annee d'imposition precedente ou
qu'il est l'enfant au le conjoint de ce proprietaire.
The assessment of a principal residence is reduced by an amount L'evaluation d'une residence principale est reduite d'au plus
up to $10,000 for the number of months of a taxation year dur- 10 000 S compte tenu du nombre de mois au cours d'une annee
ing which the owner is at least 65 years of age or is disabled. d'imposition pendant lesquels Ie proprietaire a au mains 65 aos
au est handicape.
The Municipal Property Assessment Corporation is required to La Societe d'evaluation fonciere des municipalites est tenue de
maintain a record of the assessment of land based on its current tenir un registre de I'evaluation qui est effectuee des biens-fonds
value and to provide a copy of the record to land owners within Ii leur valeur actuelle et d'en fournir gratuitement une copie a
24 hours at no charge upon request. leurs proprietaires dans les 24 heures si ceux-ci lui en font la
demande.
n__ I.
Bill 75 2006 Projet de loi 75 2006
An Act to amend Loi modifiant la
the Assessment Act Loi sur I'evaluation fonciere
with respect to homesteads a I'egard des patrimoines famHiaux
Note: This Act amends the Assessment Act. For the legis- Remarque : La presente loi modi fie la Loi sur /'eva-
lative history of the Act, see Public Statutes - Detailed /uation fonciere, dont l'historique legislatif figure a
Legislative Historv on www.e.Laws.l2ov.on.ca. I'Historiaue le12islatif detai1l6 des leis d'interet Dublie
dans '.vww.lois.en-ligne.gouv.on.ca,
Her Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Sa Majeste, sur l'avis et avec Ie consentement de
Legislative Assembly of the Province of Ontario, enacts I' Assemblee legislative de la province de l'Ontario,
as follows: edicte:
1. (1) Subsection 19.1 (1) of the Assessment Act is 1. (1) Le paragraphe 19.1 (1) de la La/ sur
amended by striking out .'subsections (2) and (3)" and l'evaluation fonciere est modifie par substitution de
substituting "subsections (2) to (6) and section 19.1.1". <<des paragraphes (2) a (6) et de Particle 19.1.h> a <<des
paragraphes (2) et (3)>>.
(2) Section 19.1 of the Act is amended by adding the (2) L'article 19.1 de la Loi est rnodifie par adjonc-
following subsections: tion des paragraphes suivants :
Repairs Reparations
(4) Ifan owner of land in the residential property class (4) Si Ie proprietaire d'un bien-fonds appartenant a la
has repairs, alterations, improvements or additions made categorie de biens residentiels fait faire des reparations,
to the land during the 12 months immediately preceding des modifications, des ameliorations au des ajouts au
the valuation day for a taxation year after 2006 as deter- bien-fonds au cours des 12 mois precedant Ie jour de
mined under subsection 19.2 (1) and if there is an in- I'evaluation determine aux termes du paragraphe 19.2 (1)
crease in the current value of the land attributable to the pour une arrnee d'imposition posterieure it 2006 et que les
repairs, alterations, improvements or additions, the as- travaux en question entrainent une augmentation de la
sessment of the land for the taxation year shall be based valeur actuelle du bien-fonds, celui-ci est evalue a sa va-
on the current value of the land less the amount set out in leur actuelle pour I'annce d'imposition, deduction [aite du
subsection (6) if the owner submits receipts for the re- montant vise au paragraphe (6) si Ie proprietaire, dans les
pairs, alterations, improvements or additions to the clerk 180 jours qui suivent Ie jour de I'evaluation, presente des
of the municipality in which the land is located within recepisses pour les travaux effectues au secretaire de la
J 80 days after the valuation day. municipalit6 au est situe Ie bien-fonds.
Disallowance of claims Rejet des reclamations
(5) The municipality mentioned in subsection (4) may, (5) La municipalite visee au paragraphe (4) peut, sur le
in the assessment roll returned to the clerk under section role d'6valuation depose aupres du secretaire aux termes
36, disallow, in whole or in part, a receipt submitted un- de !'artieie 36, rejeter tout ou partie d'un recepisse qui lui
der that subsection, est presente aux termes de ce paragraphe.
Reduction in current value Reduction de la valeur actuelle
(6) The amount for the purpose of subsection (4) is the (6) Le montant prevu pour I'application du paragraphe
lesser of, (4) est le moins cleve de ce qui suit:
(a) $25,000; and a) 25 000 $;
(b) the value of the repairs, alterations, improvements b) la valeur des travaux effectues, deduction faite :
or additions less,
(i) the amount that the municipality disallows (i) so it de la somme que la municipalite rejelte
under subsection (5), if the assessment is not en vertu du paragraphe (5), s'il n'est pas
appealed to the Assessment Review Board, or interjete appel de l'evaluation devant la Com-
mission de revision de l' evaluation fonciere,
---------_.._-_.._---~ -
2 HOMESTEAD ACT, 2006
(ii) the amount that the Assessment Review (ii) so it de la somme que rejette la Commission
Board disallows in the assessment roll that the de revision de I' evaluation fonciere sur Ie role
registrar of the Board certifies under subsec- d'evaluation que Ie registrateur de la Com.
tion 36 (4), if the assessment is appealed to mission certifie aux termes du paragraphe 36
the Board, (4), s'il est interjete appel de I'evaluation de-
vant celle-ci.
2. The Act is amended by adding tbe following see- 2. La Loi est modifiee par adjonction de I'article
tion: suivant :
Residential property assessment Evalua.tion des biens residentiels
19.1.1 (I) In subsection (2), 19.1.1 (I) Les definitions qui suivent s'appliquent au
paragraphe (2).
"child" and "spouse" each have the same meaning as in ((conjoint>> et ((enfant>) S'entendent au sens du paragraphe
subsection I (I) of the Family Law Act; ("conjoint", 1 (I) de la Loi sur Ie droit de la famil/e. (<<child>>,
"enfant") <{spouse)>)
"valuation day" means the day as of which land is valued ((jour de l'evaluatioO)> Jour auquelle bien-fond est evalue
for a taxation year as determined under section 19.2. pour une annee d'imposition, lequel est determine aux
("jour de I'evaluation") termes de I'article 19.2. (<<valuation day>>)
Maximum taxable assessed value Valeur imposable maxima Ie
(2) For a taxation year after 2006, subject to this sec- (2) Pour toute annee d'imposition posterieure a 2006,
tion, if the owner of land in the residential property class et SOllS reserve du present article, si la personne qui est
on the valuation day for the taxation year is the same as proprietaire d'un bien-fonds appartenant a la categorie
the owner of the land on the valuation day for the imme- des biens residentiels Ie jour de I'evaluation pour l'annee
diately preceding taxation year or is a child or spouse of d'imposition est la meme que celie qui en etait proprie-
that owner, the land shall not be assessed at more than an taire ce meme jour pour I'annee d'imposition precedente
amount that is 5 per cent greater than the assessment of au qu'elle est l'enfant au Ie conjoint de ce proprietaire,
the land for the immediately preceding taxation year. I'evaluation du bien-fonds ne doit pas etre superieure de
plus de 5 pour cent a celie efTectuee pour I'annee
d'imposition precedente.
Reductions fo.- seniors and disabled pe.-sons Reductions accordees aux pe.-sonnes igees et aux personnes
handicapees
(3) After appiying subsection (2), whether or not that (3) Apres I'application du paragraphe (2), que celui-ci
subsection results in a decrease in the assessment of land entraine ou non une diminution de I'evaluation du bien-
for a taxation year after 2006, if the land is the principal fonds pour toute annee d'imposition posterieure a 2006, si
residence of the owner as defined in subsection 8 (1) of Ie bien-fonds est la residence principale du proprietaire au
the Income Tax Act, the assessment shall be reduced by sens du paragraphe 8 (1) de la Loi de I'impot sur Ie reve-
an amount equal to the lesser of, nu, I'evaluation est reduite d'un montant egal au mains
eleve des elements suivants :
(a) the assessment; and a) I'evaluation;
(b) $10,000 times one-twelfth of the number of b) Ie produit de 10 000 $ et de un douzieme du nom-
months, or part of a month, in the taxation year in bre de ruois, au partie de mois, dans l'annee d'im-
which the owner of the land is at least 65 years of position pendant laquelle Ie proprietaire du bien-
age or is disabled. fonds a au mains 65 ans OU est handicape.
3. Section 36 of the Act is amended by adding the 3. L'article 36 de la Loi est modifie par adjonction
following subsection: du paragraphe suivant :
Record of current value assessment Registre d'evaluation a la valeur actuelle
(3.1) The assessment corporation shall maintain a rec- (3.1) La societe d'evaluation fonciere tient un registre
ord of the assessment of all parcels of land if the assess- de I'evaluation qui est effectuee de toutes les parcelles de
ment is based on the current value of the parcel and shall bien-fonds, si celle-ci est effectuee a la valeur actuelle des
provide a copy of the record with respect to a parcel of parcelles concernees, et eIle en fa urn it gratuitement une
land to the owner of the parcel within 24 hours at no copie a leurs proprietaires dans les 24 heures si ceux.cj
charge upon request. lui en font la demande.
LOl DE 2006 SUR LE PATRlMOINE FAMILIAL 3
Commencement Entree en vigueur
4. This Act comes into force on the day it receives 4. La presente loi entre en vigueur Ie jour ou elle
Roy.1 Assent. rei;oit la sanction royale.
Short title Titre abrege
5. The short title of this Act is the Homestead Act, 5. Le titre .brege de I. presente loi est Loi de 2006
2006. sur Ie palrimoine familial.
-----~-
Niagara.1I Region ~
;:::;
f.
-n
MEMORANDUM ~
'"
DATE: March 8, 2006 \
.
~
TO: Mayor Ted Salci and Members of Council S
Regional Councillor Anne Angelone '0
Regional Councillor George Bailey ~
Regional Councillor William Smeaton ~
FROM: Brad Whitelaw, Program Manager
Waste Management Services Division
SUBJECT: Notification of Waste Audits in City of Niagara Falls
Stewardship Ontario, in partnership with Niagara Region's Waste Management Services
Division, will be conducting a comprehensive waste audit study in various Ontario
municipalities. In Niagara Region, these audits will involve collecting waste, recyclables and
organics from 20 designated households located in St. Catharines, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Thorold,
Niagara Falls and Welland, for a total of 100 households.
Each waste audit will be conducted over a two (2) week period, with a total four (4) seasonal
audits being completed. In the City of Niagara Falls, these audits will be conducted in the
following residential areas, on the dates noted:
~ Lincoln Road @McKinley Road - March 13 & 20, July 3 & 10, October 2 &9, 2006 and
January 8 & 15,2007
~ Crowland Avenue @ Lincoln Road - March 13 & 20, July 3 & 10, October 2 & 9, 2006
and January 8 & 15, 2007
~ Briarwood Avenue @ York Drive- March 14 & 21, July 4 & II, October3 & 10,2006 and
January 9 & 16,2007
~ Preakness @ Montrose Road - March 15 & 22, July 5 & 12, October 4 & 11, 2006 and
January 10 & 17,2007.
The materials collected will be sorted, weighed and studied to determine various waste diversion
trends, and then properly disposed of. Niagara Region has previously conducted waste audits in
other areas of Niagara in 1996, 2000, 2004 and 2005.
An information letter has been prepared by the Region for those residents involved in the waste
audits (see attached). Jacques Whitford, the consultant conducting the waste audits on behalf of
Stewardship Ontario, will provide a copy of this letter to those residents requesting further
information.
March 8, 2006
Page 2
Should you have any questions related to this waste audit study, please contact me at 905-685-
4225 ext. 3316.
c. Peter Partington ~ Regional Chair, Niagara Region
Mike Trojan ~ Chief Administrative Officer, Niagara Region
Ian Neville ~ Commissioner of Public Works, Niagara Region
Barry Friesen - Director, Waste Management Services Division
Silvio Mucciarelli - Associate Director, Waste Disposal Operations
Drew Berketo - Manager, Waste Policy and Planning
Catherine Habermebl- Manager, Waste Collection and Diversion Operations
John MacDonald - Chief Administrative Officer, City of Niagara Falls
Ed Dujlovic - Director of Municipal Works, City of Niagara Falls
John Dixie - Technical Services, Stewardship Ontario
Jim McKay - Project Manager, Jacques-Whitford Ltd.
Lance Parcher - Modem Corporations
Att.
L:\E.07 Planning\2006 Waste Audit Program\Councillor Letters\Niagara Falls Councillor Letter re 2006 Waste Audits.doc
Niagara.1I Region PUBLIC WORKS
WASTE MANAGEMENT SERVICES
2201 51. David's Road, P.O. Box 1042,
Thorold ON L2V 417
Tel: 905-685-1571 Toll-free: 1-800-263-7215
Fax: 905-687-8056
www,regional.niagara.on.ca
March 8, 2006
Dear Resident:
Waste Composition Study
E.09.00 88 060
Stewardship Ontario, in partnership with Niagara Region's Waste Management Services
Division, will be conducting a comprehensive waste composition study of various households
located in St. Catharines, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Thorold, Niagara Falls and Weiland. These
studies are being conducted by Stewardship Ontario in order to identify the quantities and
characteristics of the organics, recyclables and garbage that are collected at the curb each week.
Stewardship Ontario has contracted Jacques-Whitford Ltd. to conduct the studies in your
neighbourhood. All waste, recycling and organic materials will be collected on your regularly-
scheduled collection day and transferred to a sorting facility for characterization by material type
(i.e. paper, plastic, glass, organics, etc.) and weight. This study will be conducted over a two-
week period during the weeks of March 13 & 20, July 3 & 10, October 2 & 9, 2006 and January
8 & 15,2007.
The contents of all materials collected will be kept strictly confidential and at no time will
be identified according to address.
Residents of your area, including yourself, were not notified prior to the commencement of this
waste composition study. This anonymity is necessary, as any prior knowledge of the ongoing
study could potentially alter the composition of waste streams being studied. Your Regional and
Municipal Councillors have been made aware of this study.
Your continued participation in this waste composition study, will assist in evaluating the
ongoing waste reduction efforts as we strive to reach a 65% waste diversion goal. However,
should you wish to withdraw from the study, you may do so at any time.
Questions and/or concerns regarding this study may be directed to the undersigned at (905) 685-
4225 ext. 3316.
Sincerely,
/!J~~ ~
Brad Whitelaw, BA, CIM, CPM, P.Mgr.
Program Manager, Waste Policy and Planning
T '\F 07 Pl:mninrP00i'\ W~"t~ rnmpmitinn Pmgr~m\T ~tt~r to rp',,-irlp.nt<: rln~
Building Community. Building Lives.
---~~--_.-
~~;~.IJ~J:,J.'..'..;.~j:a.iJ~l.~
From the March 2, 2006 Meeting of Regional Council
Volume 14, Issue 3
2006 Current Budget - Approved! Official Release of the Regional
Regional Council approved the 2006 Niagara Bicycling Map - 2nd Edition
budget, which will result in a Regional Councillor Leavens, Chair of the
tax increase of 3.1 % over 2005. The Regional Niagara Bicycling Committee
total 2006 budget represents an announced the release of the second
increase of 4.7%, which was offset by edition of the award winning Bicycling
assessment growth of 1.6%. The 2006 Map for the Niagara Region. The
budget ensures that services to the Regional Niagara Bicycling Map was
public are maintained, and in some first produced in 2003, and was an
cases enhanced, while keeping tax instant hit amongst its users. The map
increases as low as possible. won national recognition for its
T ax Fairness cartography, and was featured in the
media. The new full colour fold-out
map benefits cyclists of all skill and
Regional Council received a age levels; contains new information
presentation on the topic of tax on major multi-use trail systems in
fairness for common services from Niagara such as the nation-wide
Councillors Austin Kirkby and Jim Trans-Canada Trail system; the
Collard, Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. province-wide Waterfront Trail system
Councillor Collard advised Regional and the Regional Greater Niagara
Council that we need to lobby the Circle Route. The map is about
province to allow for options in the bringing people to experience the rural
manner Niagara Region collects and beauty and attractions throughout
pays for common services rendered, Niagara, including the Niagara
and make Queen's Park listen. Escarpment, Conservation Areas,
Niagara Region as a whole is invited to Short Hills, beaches, wineries, villages,
join Niagara-on-the-Lake in having the scenic waterways, golf course, etc.
Provincial Legislature give Niagara The map is available for a small $2
Region a choice. voluntary donation to help ensure that
Regional Council was asked to help in this product is not a burden on the
fighting for provincial changes that taxpayer and to help finance its contin-
would allow Niagara Region to ued production.
apportion the cost for Regional
services across the municipalities in a Project Niagara - A Premier Inter-
more equitable manner.
Regional and local Councillors should national Music Festival
be lobbying their MPPs in attempt to Regional Council received a
make them understand the challenges presentation on Project Niagara - A
Niagara Region faces with the Premier International Music Festival,
downloading of services without
For further Information contact the passing on the costs to the taxpayer.
Regional Clerk's office at p\7:Sl60€O 90. S)IlI313 Sllt1.:l'~IN
(905) 685-1571 or 1-800-263-7215
www.regional.niagara.on.ca
which is in its initial phase. Ms. Cullen and Mr. Industries Niagara proposal to redevelop the
Linton, consultants for the project are in former 'Stokes Seeds' building. This project is
Niagara to establish contacts, inform, solicit a mixed-use complex including community
feedback and input and discuss partnership facilities and housing in the City of St.
opportunities. Catharines, Queenston Neighbourhood
Regional Council was provided with some Community, a Reclaiming Ground exercise, a
background on how the project was initialized partnership between the City and the Niagara
and how Niagara was chosen as the proposed Region.
logical location for such a venue. The vision of Fined Time
the project was for a classical music festival
that does not merely replicate an existing Regional Council received a report respecting
festival and provides for opportunities to create
a summer music festival of the 21st century, a "Fined Time": a Diversion Program for Students
who have Contravened the Tobacco Control
destination cultural attraction. Act. The program is intended for students with
Regional Council was apprised of the benefits
of such a venue in Niagara to the Toronto no previous history of tobacco offences and
under special circumstances a student with a
Symphony/National Arts Council of Ontario; the previous conviction may be permitted to
Niagara Region; the Province of Ontario and
Canada. The process the study will follow will participate, with subsequent charges resulting
begin with articulation and testing of the in charges.
concept, which will result in the estimates for Child Poverty in Niagara
key parameters; demonstrate the on-going
viability, sustainability of the concept in the Regional Council was advised of an article that
Niagara Region; validate the anticipated appeared in the March 1, 2006 issue of the
benefits and outline the next steps (phase 2). Toronto Star entitled "Poverty hits one in six
Phase 2 will involve detailed implementation kids in Ontario". The article notes that the
planning; acquire funding commitments and federal government had promised in 1989 to
political support; more detailed planning and eliminate child poverty by 2000, however, the
analysis and require intensive local child poverty rate in Ontario reached 16.1 per
involvement. The expecting timing of the cent in 2003, compared with 11.6 per cent in
project will facilitate a Phase 2 report being 1989. The article also states that "Good quality
completed during the first quarter of 2007. child care is one essential pathway out of
B ringing a Community-Based Leadership poverty" .
Regional Council directed staff to prepare a
report on child poverty in Niagara with a review
Program to Niagara of the study that was released on March 1,
Regional Chair Partington advised Regional
Council that Mr. Trojan and a number of senior 2006 on Child Poverty.
community leaders have been exploring the Congratulations to the Winners of the
idea of bringing a community-based leadership Mayor's Cup Hockey Tournament
program to Niagara. Community programs Councillor Bodner congratulated Niagara
exist in many parts of Canada and the United Region, Dunnville, Grimsby and Fort Erie the
States; they exist to ensure system-thinking winners of the Mayor's Cup Hocke~
leaders who have vision, energy and skills to Tournament that was held as part of the 7
facilitate growth of individuals and community. Annual Sports Fest.
Smarter Niagara Incentive Commitment - Congratulations!
Regional Council extended their
Supported I congratulations to Mr. Kalvin Reid, who has
Regional Council supported the Smarter been promoted to the Editorial Department at
Niagara Incentive Commitment for Goodwill the St. Catharines Standard.
BOARD REPORT
REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF NIAGARA POLICE SERVICES BOARD
. 'Crime Stoppers' Breakfast - On February 2200, Board Chair
Contents of thIs report relate to the activities Member Mal Woodhouse attended a 'Crime Stoppers'
of the Niagara Police Services Board as an
outcome of the public meeting held February Breakfast hosted by \Re N~PS. The event Larry A. Iggulden, C.A.
23, 2006. This information IS made available commemorated the 30 anniversary of the
to members of the police service and organization's 1st case solved in Albuquerque, New
mterested members of the public Mexico in 1976.
Board Vice-Chair
Public Hearing - On May 7111, the Police Services Board
will be holding a public meeting for discussions Doug Martin
regarding proposed changes to the Adult Entertainment
Licencing By-law. The meeting will begin at 9:30 a.m.
at Regional Council Chambers. Board Members
REPORTS FROM THE CHIEF OF POLICE
Chief Wendy Southall reported on the following topics: Vance Badawey
Bob Bentley
Homicide Statistics - For the period of January 151 William Smeaton
through to February 20th, 2006 there have been two Larry Tufford
PRESENTATIONS homicides in Niagara, statistically equaling those of Malcolm Woodhouse
The Board was formally introduced to the four 2005.
newly promoted NRPS Inspectors, those being: +++
Scott Kenney, Joe Matthews, Geoff Skaftfeld and Homicide Update - On January 30th, a 33-yearMold
Brent Symonds. Niagara Falls resident was arrested and charged with 2~
degree murder in relation to the death of Cassey
Chief Southall and senior executive staff recently Cichocki. Ms. Cichocki's body was discovered on Board Staff
conducted a promotional process to appoint four January 24th in,the area of Whirlpool Road and Church's
new inspectors to the Niagara Regional Police Lane in the City of Niagara Falls. A post-mortem exam Deb Morton
Service. Interviews were held with 11 staff concluded her death as being the result of physical Executive Director
sergeants and resulted in the four above-noted trauma to her body.
officers being chosen to fill the positions. Sandi Taylor
Homicide Update - On February 6th, 21-yearMold Toyan Executive Assistant
Invitations to attend the Board meeting were Adrian Johnson, was arrested at a Brampton residence
extended to each of the successful candidates for and charged with 1st degree murder for the December
formal introductions to Board members and for 24th, 2005 death of 29Myear-old Shelston Antonio Dawn Moses
public recognition. Deputies Beaulieu and Moody Broome occurring in the -City of St. Catharines. The Board Clerk
provided brief histories that touched on the policing NRPS is not seeking any additional persons in relation to
backgrounds of the four individuals and highlighted this homicide. + + +
the impressive credentials that qualified them to
proceed to the next level of their careers at the NRPS Investigative Team - On January 26111, the NRPS For further
rank _ of Inspector. The Chief also took the announced the formation of a twelve-officer investigative information contact.
opportunity to extend appreciation to the families team implemented to investigate the death of Cassey .
of Inspector Kenny, Inspector Matthews, Inspector Cichocki as well as reviewing the homicides of four other . ...
Skaftfeld and Inspector Symonds for their support. women. Acting Staff Sergeant Cliff Sexton, currently . ReglOna~ Mumc//J.al1fy of
Additional gratitude was extended to the assigned to NRPS Major Crime Unit, has been assigned Niagara Police ~lVlces Board
Inspector's wives and each were presented with a to lead the team. !
bouquet of flowers. 68 Churc freef
Marijuana Grow Ops, Robberies & Traffic Fatalities St. Catharin Ontario
It was a proud moment for all _ involved as it is (Statistics up to February 2rJ1', 2006) L2R 6
without a doubt evident that the future of this h;
organization will be in good hands with such an Grow Ops: An estimated street value of $2,416,000 B . (905) .5-0321
excellent team of leaders waiting in the wings. has been seized. . This brings the total F us; (905) 11i8-0036
number of operational take downs to ax. ,:::;.
REPORTS FROM THE CHAIR 8 with a total of 15 arrests being made. 0'\
Chair Larry Iggulden reported on the following Email: nrpboa.8JYnrps.com
topics: Robberies: A total of 26 robberies were reported. Of .........
, those reported, 2 arrests have been Web~:
Niagara Ambulance Communications Centre made, 7 cases have been solved and www.n~om
On February alll, the Niagara Ambulance 19 investigations are still ongoing. ;rj
Communications Centre heid its offiGial opening E''''OT C:'Ti'"'OOf) S~1I313S1ltlJ
ceremony In the Foster Wheeler bUilding, NlagaraM Traffic .:1' ~ c.. ~c.. :n. I -
on~the-Lake.- -Chajr Iggulden attended on behalf of Fatalities: A total of 3 fatalities have resulted from
the Police Services Board. traffic related incidents.
-- ,.
MINISTRY OF COMMUNITY SAFETY AND CORRECTIONAL The Board and the Service recognize and weicome the Province's
SERVICES commitment to assist Ontario's policing organizations by providing
The Board received a letter from the Honourable Monte Kwinter, additional resources to enhance the safety of Ontario's citizens and
Minister, Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services, its visitors. Therefore, upon obtaining the required signatures, the
addressing concerns as they relate to Niagara's property taxes and Board authorized the forwarding of all required documentation to the
salary increases of officers employed by the Niagara Regional Police Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services.
Service.
FBI NATIONAL ACADEMY ASSOCIATES
On December 7, 2005 a letter was presented at Regional Council's The Board received a letter of appreciation from Donald Campbell,
Corporate and Financial Services Committee (CFSC). Contents of Sponsorship Committee Chair, acknowledging the Board's recent
the letter, authored by Minister Kwinter, referenced the fact that the $1,000 bronze sponsorship contribution to the FBI National Academy
"Government of Ontario does not set municipal budgets or control Associates Conference (FBINAA) being held in July 2006. The law
police salariesft and expressed the Minister's concerns towards high enforcement symposium will provide comprehensive training to
taxation and increased property assessments in Niagara as well as attendees from around the world. It is being hosted by the New York
the high cost of salaries for policing. and Eastern Canada Chapter of the FBINAA in Toronto.
In response to the correspondence presented at the meeting, BUSINESS PLANNING PROCESS
Councillor Martin, CFSC Chair and Vice-Chair to the Police Services The Board received Service report 51/2006 providing notification that
Board, addressed the Minister's concerns noting that while the in compliance with the Adequacy Standards Regulation (AI-DOt The
Region's Corporate and Financial Services Committee and the Framework for Business Planning), the business planning process
Police Services Board recognize this as being technically correct, it for 2007-2009 will need to commence to ensure its completion by
is strongly felt -that. the settlements reached between the year end.
Management Board Secretariat and the Ontario Provincial Police
Association have a ripple effect across Ontario's municipal police In order to begin the developmental phase and provide strategic
services ultimately having a direct impact on policing costs in direction of the Plan's implementation, a steering committee along
Niagara and throughout the province. It was expressed that with a working committee needs to be formed. Committee members
settlements, which result in higher wages being awarded to will be required to host internal and external forums for membership
neighbouring policing services arid additional policing organizations, and community input during the upcoming months. External forums
set standards and place pressure on other municipal police boards. will consist of representation from school boards and schools,
Mayors, community policing committees, public organizations,
On February 3, 2006 the Board received further correspondence businesses and members of the general public. Participation from
from the Minister recognizing that police budgets across the province members of both committees is encouraged, as it will provide
are on the rise and that the Ministry acknowledges the increasing opportunity to address issues and concerns specifically relating to
concerns being placed on municipalities and their respective police the operations of the NRPS from several different perspectives. In
boards. It was noted that the Ontario Association of Police Services addition, over the next six months an environmental scan will be
Board has recommended that local boards join forces in establishing conducted.
a centralized approach to bargaining to avoid chain-reaction, double-
digit contract increases as one board follows another in their Upon discussion, the Board referred the report to its Business Plan
negotiations settlements. Also noted was the fact that the 'Police Committee for consideration towards the Plan's developmental
Services Act' outlines the contract negotiations process stating that phase. The Business Plan committee is comprised of Chair 199ulden,
boards and associations negotiate within limits set by their respective Vice-Chair Martin, Members Badawey, Smeaton, Tufford and
municipalities and that formal mediation and arbitration may be appointed Service members.
applied for should the negotiating parties reach an impasse.
NIAGARA PARKS POLICE
SAFER COMMUNITIES - 1,000 OFFICERS PARTNERSHIP The Board received Service report 53/2006 providing the 2005
PROGRAM Annual Report for the Niagara Parks Police Service (NPP).
The Board received a letter from Noreen Alleyne, Assistant Deputy Submission of a NPP annual business plan forms. part of an
Minister, Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services, .agreement between the Police Services Board and the Niagara
providing the Contractual Agreement relative to the Safer Parks Police, which was entered into on March 31,2004.
Communities - 1,000 Officers Partnership Program and requesting
its execution, by Regional Chair Partington and Police Board Chair Chief of the Niagara Parks Police, Tim Berndt, reported that a
199ulden, for submission of all required documentation to the Ministry number of significant achievements were 'identified in their first
for completion of the allocation process. annual report for 2004 and that the accomplishments identified in its
contents provided the foundation for the Service's continuance to
The Agreement confirms the approval of 30 officers to the Niagara strive for operational and financial efficiencies throughout 2005. He
Regional Police Service and the Ministry's commitment to a cost further stated that with .a long and 'proud tradition. of policing in
sharing of approximately 50% up to a cap of $35,000.00 per officer Niagara, the Niagara Parks Police are committed to continuing to
per annum. As requested in the Service's initial application, twenty provide and uphold the highest quality of policing as they pursue
officers have been allocated to community policing duties and the policing excellence while protecting the persons and property for all
additional ten have been assigned to provide support in the Service's Niagara Parks Commission interests and the millions of visitors that
targeted areas. Officer allocation and hire time lines are as follow: frequent Ontario's Niagara Parks.
Category Total Hires Between HIres from W' I' f' . 00 C' d
Allocation October 23, 03 April 1, 06 & Ith a long 1st 0 ~chlevements dUring 2 5, hlef Bern t
& March 31 06 October 07 acknowledged that theIr many successes could not have been
Community Policing 20 15 ' 5 ' accomplished without the combined cooperation and dedication of
TARGETED AREAS the Service's members and the ongoing support of the Commission's
Youth Crime 1 0 1 Senior Management Team. Together, the organization looks forward
Guns and Gangs 3 0 3 to meeting the challenges that will be faced throughout 2006.
Organized Crime 2 0 2
Dangef?us Offenders 1 1 0 R.I.D.E GRANT PROGRAM
DomestIc Violence 1 0 1 Th B d . d S' rt 26/2006 'd. b . f
Child Protection 2 0 2 e oar receIve ervlce repo proV! 109 a fie year-
(Internet Luring/Pornography) end overview of action taken as a result of R.I.D.E. initiatives
TOTAL 30 16 14 performed throughout the funding period for 2005-2006.
Volume 5, Issue 2 February 2006
Page #2
It was reported that officers were deployed to RI.D,E. duties on 20 2, The establishment of a Police Services Board (PSB)
separate occasions. These 20 initiatives resulted in 5,410 vehicles contingency Reserve;
being stopped. That led to 328 roadside breath analysis tests being
administered and of those, 38 arrests were made for drinking and 3. The transfer of the net expenditure savings of $62,601
driving related offences and an ,additional 86 people losing their from the Police Services Board cost centre to the Police
driver's licences for a 12-hour suspension period. R.I.D.E. spot Services Board Contingency Reserve;
checks performed over the past fiscal year saw an approximate 50%
or higher increase in most of the- reported areas when compared to And further, budget allocations totaling $1.124 million for one-time
the 2004 statistics. expenditures as follows:
In addition to the above R.I.D.E. report, the Board also received 4. $750,000 for the Special Investigations Task Force;
Service report 25/2006 providing the 2006/2007 R.I.D.E. grant
application for the fiscal year of April 2006 through to February 2007, 5. $100,000 for Business Plan support and Ontario Editorial
which included a request to authorize the submission of the Board;
application to the Provincial Program's Administration. Each year,
police boards are required to renew their application and last year's 6. $60,000 for Court Services relocation;
funding request resulted in the Service receiving $20,737.67 from the
Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services. The 7. $13,872 for video cameras;
Ministry has a Funding Selection Criteria that reviews the size of the
applying police service, the population it serves, previous use of 8. $100,000 for furniture at 110 James Street;
grant monies, and the Service's commitment to the program's
objectives. According to the funding grid and the number of 9. ,$100,000 for proactive recruiting initiatives;
applicants, the NRPS is qualified to receive up to $30,000.00 being
allocated for this year's program funding. And further, an additional transfer to Reserve Funds as follows:
Upon consideration of both items, the Board authorized its Chair to 10. A transfer to the Police Contingency Reserve for the
execute the required documentation and their forwarding to the remaining net expenditure savings of approximately
respective recipients as required. $1,323,511.
POLICE USER FEES & CHARGES Upon consideration of the requests, the Board approved the above
The Board received Service report 55/2006 requesting approval to noted financial transactions pending Regional Council approval.
include an updated list of user fees and charges for the NRPS in a
consolidated fees and charges by-law for all Regional Departments, PURCHASING
Boards and Agencies. Submission of the fee schedules will form part Net CvcloDS - The Board received Service report 39/2006
of the 2006 Regional Municipality of Niagara's Current Budget. requesting approval of Awards of Quotation to Net Cyclops Inc. (NCI)
in order to continue software refresh and maintenance of the
The Board approved the submission of the fee schedule to the Service's network and security infrastructure for the period of
Regional Clerk's office as received. It is anticipated that the Service March 1, 2006 to February 28, 2007. The report's recommendations
will present the Board with the results of a costing model analysis in request approval of the two quotes noted below:
conjunction with its 2007 current budget process for Board
consideration' of fee adjustments should Service staff deem fee 1. Quote 012249 in the amount of $62,025.79, which covers
changes necessary. a one-year maintenance period for Norte! hardware and
software upgrades to applicable devices as released and
REGIONAL NIAGARA BUDGET REVIEW COMMITTEE required and;
The Board received a letter from Pam Gilroy, Regional Clerk,
Regional Municipality of Niagara, providing Staff Directions 2. Quote 012250 in the amount of $6,952.00, which covers
requested by members of the Region's Budget Review Committee at the maintenance of existing hardware and software for the
its January 19, 2006 meeting. Firewall and associated devices.
Niagara Regional Police staff was requested to provide Council Upon consideration of the request, the Board approved the quotes of
members with dollar figures related to the extra expenditures Net Cyclops Inc. in the total amount of $68, 977.79 plus applicable
required to fund each of the four challenges identified in the Services taxes.
2006 budget presentation along with an oveNiew of how population
growth and tourism growth has had an impact on police spending. Vehicle ReDlacement - The Board considered Service report
The Service was also requested to provide options to Council for 24/2006 requesting approval for the initiation of the 2006 vehicle
ways to fund the sick leave liability and how this will be dealt with in replacements. The replacement schedule identified a need to begin
the long-term ~trategy for Police Services. replacing 29 Service vehicles through the tenders of the Police-
Co-operative Purchasing Group (PCPG),
The Board rec;:eived the item for information and referred Council's
requests to the Chief of Police, for a further report to the Police In order to enable staff to deploy vehicles in accordance with the
Services Board. replacement schedule, the Board approved the initiation of Capital
Project ZP00602, Vehicles,in an amount up to $1 million, plus
NRPS CURRENT BUDGET applicable taxes as follows'
The Board received Service report 54/2006 requesting that, subject
to approval of Regional Council, the Board authorize the following + The purchase of eight Ford Crown Victoria Police Cruisers
transactions as they relate to the 2005 year-end financial operating at a total cost of $219,200 plus applicable taxes;
results for the Service: + The purchase of nine Chevrolet Impalas (uniform and CIB
car replacements) at a total cost of $197,064 plus
1. A transfer to the Accumulated Sick Leave Reserve Fund in applicable taxes;
the ,amount. of $438,964, representing the budgeted + The purchase of six Chevrolet Imp<;llas (Senior Officer
amount not expended in 2005 for retirement sick leave vehicle replacements) at a totalccist of $129,276 plus
payouts; applicable taxes;
Volume 5, Issue 2 February 2006
Page #3
,.
. The purchase of two Chevrolet Malibus (Court Services NRPS Male Chorus - The Board received Service report 52/2006
car replacements) at a total cost of $38,320 plus requesting consideration towards its annual funding donation to the
applicable taxes; Niagara Regional Police Male Chorus.
. The purchase of four Chevrolet Express Cargo vans at a
total cost of $97,840 plus applicable taxes, Upon consideration of the funding request, the Board approved its
annual donation in the amount of $3,500 to be used to fund the
Delivery time frames for both GM and Ford Motor Company is operation of the chorus throughout the year.
expected to be 10-12 weeks, longer delivery periods can be
expected for purchases made after the first quarter of the 2006 NRPS AWARDS DAY CEREMONY
calendar year. Based on the NRPS's fleet management software In 1971, the Board and the Service began what is now traditionally
forecast, all of the fore mentioned vehicles will be scheduled for referred to as the Niagara Regional Polices SeNiee's Annual Awards
replacement by mid year. Should any further purchases be required Day Ceremony. The event honours and recognizes citizens who
throughout 2006, requests will be forwarded to the Board for formal have exemplified actions that go beyond their civic duties and
approval. officers who have performed beyond their calls of duty. Also
recognized are members who have provided 20, 30, and 40 years of
FUNDING REQUESTS service to the Niagara Regional Police as each are presented with a
International Police Hockev Tournament - The Board received medal or service bar which is issued by the Governor General of
Service report 31/2006 requesting a donation of $1,000 from the Canada.
Special Fund to be shared equally between the NRPS Women's and
Men's hockey teams while participating in the 2006 International In 1998, the Niagara Region Police Association joined the Board and
Police Hockey Tournament in Brampton on March 1s1 and 2nd, 2006. the Service as its newest co-host to the ceremonial event, in
particular to recognize members who have retired within the past
Upon consideration of the funding request, the Board approved a year and to present those individuafs with commemorative watches.
donation of $500 to each team to help offset the team's combined This year's event will take place on May 24, 2006 at Club Italia in
out-of-pocket expenses. Niagara Falls. The evening is a truly prideful event, for recipients
and presenters alike, as it is an occasion that brings about
Recognition is given to the following members who comprise the recognition to those who have contributed valuably to this
team rosters: community.
NRPS WOMEN'S TEAM ROSTER ANNUAL REPORTS
Carol Hanna The Adequacy Standards Regulation requires that police services
Sandy Stanlforth boards and police services meet minimum standards for what are
Deanna Evans adequate and effective police services. This provision is a mandated
Valerie Hall responsibility of police services boards which includes the
Samantha Belanskl developing and adopting of approximately 80 performance
Becky Hyatt standards, a vigorous training program, and an ongoing skills
Melissa Grivich development plan.
Klrsti Haaka
Barb LaMlere As a minimum, these policies require compliance with both the
Sherri Masterson regulation and guidelines and in addition, provide the Board with
Lindsay Barton reports in order to continually assess compliance. The reporting
requirements also assist in future budget processes, business plans,
NRPS MEN'S TEAM ROSTER and in assessing the needs of the police service on an ongoing
basis.
Frank Grivlch
Michael Rees Annual report(s) received this month relate to the following subject
George Arseneau matter and were prepared by the noted Service member(s):
George Savage
Shane Secord . NRPS Comprehensive Employee Wellness Program
Craig Labaune (Service report 48/2006)
Michael Baxter Marie Alexander, Manager, Human Resources
Tom Neilson . 2005 'Fail to Stop' Statistics (Service report 29/2006)
Bill Gurney Constable Scott Elliott, Training Unit
Erin Madill . 2005 fUse of Force' Statistics (Service report 30/2006)
Jim McCaffery Acting Sergeant Ernie Pineman, Training Unit
Volume 5, Issue 2 . February 2006
Page #4
CITY OF ST. CATHARINES CORPORATE SUPPORT
SERVICES DEPARTMENT
CITY HALL
50 CHURCH STREET
P.O. BOX 3012 TEL (905) 688-8601
51. CATHARINES, ONTARIO L2R 7C2 FAX (905) 682-3631
z
March 9,2006 ~
."
iI2
!;;
Mr. Dean Iorfida, Clerk ~
en
City of Niagara Falls ~
Box 1023, 4310 Queen Street 0
w
Niagara Falls, Ontario ....
U1
L2E 6X5 ....
....
S'\
Re: CRTC Decision to
Deny Regional TV System
File: 16,6,100
Please be advised that the Council of the Corporation ofthe City of St, Catharines at its regular
meeting held on March 6, 2006, enacted the following resolution:
Whereas Canada's Broadcast Act (1991) states that the programming provided by the Canadian
broadcasting system should be drawn from local, regional sources, and should serve to safeguard,
enrich and strengthen the cultural, political, social and economic fabric of Canada; and
Whereas the Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission Policy 1999-97
states that audiences have a strong desire for better reflection of Canada's regions as a whole,
rather than domination from Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver; and
Whereas CRTC Chair Charles Dalfen has stated that the Commission has always seen local
reflection, and a reflection of Canada's diversity, as key aspects of TV broadcasting; and
Whereas on November 18, 2005, the CRTC denied the application ofTVN Niagara Inc. for a
broadcasting license to provide programming reflecting Niagara; and
Whereas TVN is challenging the CRTC decision as a miscarriage of process that abuses the rights
of 420,000 Canadians;
Now Therefore Be It Resolved that the Council ofthe City of St. Catharines recognizes Niagara
as a region of Canada distinct from Toronto, representing a population of 420,000 persons;
and that in the 500 channel television universe, Canada's 12lh largest market must be afforded its
rights and equal opportunity to have its voices heard;
MUNICIPALITY OF CHATHAM,KENT
315 KINe STREET WEST. P.O, Box 640 . CHATHAM, ONTARIO. N7M 5K8
--
CORPORATE SERVICES
MUNICIPAL GOVERNANCE SERVICES
TELEPHONE: (519) 360-1998 FAX: (519) 436-3237
March 15, 2006
Dean lorfida, City Clerk
City of Niagara Falls
Clerk's Division
4310 Queen SI.
P,O. Box 1023
Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5
RE: Wholesale Gas Sector
Thank you for your letter regarding the above noted resolution,
The Resolution was forwarded to the Councillors' Information Package on November 21, 2005
for consideration, Council received the resolution but took no action at this time.
Please be advised that according to the Municipality of Chatham-Kent Procedure By-Law
6.3(a), "Requests from persons, organizations, associations and other municipal governments
to endorse resolutions affecting Provincial legislation shall be referred to the Association of
Municipalities of Ontario for review and consideration. Requests for resolutions concerning
Federal legislation shall be referred to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities for review and
consideration."
:z:
Sincerely, ~
~~ hi~ "
112
l;;
~
Elinor Mifflin, AMCT
Municipal Clerk/Freedom of Information Coordinator i?
Co
~
.....
G,.:l
C Association of Municipalities of Ontario ~
Co
393 University Ave., Suite 1701
Toronto, ON M5G 1 E6
www.city.chathrtm~ ken Lon .ca Ci lATHAM-KENT CALL CENTRE, (519) 360-1998
'I I!
lI>ot~.r'IiDn nr CITY OF WELLAND
i~! Office of the City Clerk
60 East Main Street
Weiland, ON L3B 3X4
~ Phone: 905-735-1700 Fax: 905-732-1919
1tl.'llat\~ E-mail: craig.stirtzinger@welland.ca
06-47 March 6, 2006
The Honourable David Caplan
Minister of Public Infrastructure Renewal
Mowat Block, 6th Floor
900 Bay Street
Toronto, ON M7A 1C2
Ms. Pam Gilroy, Regional Clerk
Regional Municipality of Niagara
P. O. Box 1042, 2201 St. David's Road
Thorold, ON L2V 4T7
Area Municipalities, Municipal Clerks
Dear Sir/Madam:
At its meeting of February 21,2006 Weiland City Council passed the following
resolution:
1. "THAT City of Weiland petition the Minister of Public
Infrastructure Renewal the Honourable David Caplan
requesting that Recommendation 4.9 of the Watertight
Report not be included in the consideration for the 'White
Paper" to be issued by the Province on the
implementation of the Sustainable Water and Sewage
Systems Act (SWSSA) and its regulations; if.
2. THAT Council support Staff in its initiative to work with i:l
other area municipalities in efforts to meet with Ministry of [;;
Public Infrastructure staff on the merits of continued p
delivery of water and wastewater services through the Sl
operations of local area municipalities pursuing best ::;,
practice procedures, and exclusion of Watertight Cl',
Recommendation 4.9 from the 'White Paper" on SWSSA; g:
3. THAT Council is in support of the revised direction of the 0
proposed Regional Water & Wastewater Services 9
Organizational Sustain ability Review study so that existing ~
delivery of water and wastewater services through the local
area municipalities would be the only focus of the review;
4. THAT Council support efforts to persuade Regional
Council to advise the Minister of Public Infrastructure and
Renewal that it is not in favour of Recommendation 4.9 of
the Watertight Report.
... Cont'd
.. .-..---.
March 6, 2006
06-47...Cont'd Page 2
5. THAT Region of Niagara be advised that the City of
Weiland does not support the limited make up of the
proposed Steering Committee for the Water and
Wastewater Services Organizational Sustainability Review
study;
6. THAT there should be better representation from the Area
Municipalities on the Steering Committee, so that there
could be an opportunity for a representative of every Area
Municipality to be included; and
7. THAT there should be a Technical Panel of Area Municipal
Staff and Regional Staff representatives to review the
findings and have input in the direction to any Consultant
reporting to the Steering Committee."
Enclosed for your information is a copy of Report ENG-2006-03.
Yours very truly,
..t " " I
fCRA
City
CAS:tc
C.c. - Mr. D, Shantz, Gen. Mgr., Engineering, Public Works and Transportation SelVices/City Engineer
I.
.
.
It'fll'f.lhlllllf 06-47
AGENDA PAGE ~ at
NUMBER REF. NO.
.
_dIB\\b
MOTION
MOVED BY:
SECONDED BY:
1. That City of Weiland petition the Minister of Public
Infrastructure Renewal the Honourable David Caplan
requesting that Recommendation 4.9 of the Watertight
Report not be included in the consideration for the
"White Paper" to be issued by the Province on the
implementation of the Sustainable Water and Sewage
Systems Act (SWSSA) and its regulations; ....--""""'''''.-,
r'PJ(F:-S:EN~~~~}? Irt) d
2. That Council support Staff in its initiative to work I '''[)NC'' \
. ~~;u -] ...d
with other area municipalities in efforts to meet with
Ministry of Public Infrastructure staff on the merits 6 FEB 1 , ,OOS
of continued delivery of water and wastewater services . c ~ "l'IR!7ING"R Cdv Clcrk \
through the operations of local area municipalities . ...:' \, '_'-....., .....; '- .,~ r"'
en ,.{ uF \.Nt:LLA,'L}
pursuing best practice procedures, and exclusion of --="--"""..,"';-",-~
Watertight Recommendation 4.9 from the "White Paper"
on SWSSA;
3. That Council is in support of the revised direction of
the proposed Regional Water & Wastewater Services
Organizational Sustainability Review study so that
existing delivery of water and wastewater services
through the local area municipalities would be the
only focus of the review;
4. That Council support efforts to persuade Regional Council
to advise the Minister of Public Infrastructure and Renewal
that it is not in favour of Recommendation 4.9 of the
Watertight Report. "
5. That Region of Niagara be advised that the City of Weiland
does not support the limited make up of the proposed Steering
Committee for the Water and Wastewater Services Organizational
Sustainability Review study;
...continued...
~-.r-
lton,"(llhrllll( 06-47
AGENDA PACiE a
NUMBER REF. NO.
_tHa\\b
COUNCILLORS YEAS NAYS .
MOTION
O'DELL
GRIMALDI
- Page 2 -
DZUGAN
FORTIER
SHARPE
BEAUDOIN
6. That there should be better representation from the Area ALEXANDER
Municipalities on the Steering Committee, so that there GRENIER
could be an opportunity for a representative of every Area CHIOCCHIO
Municipality to be included; and LAROUCHE
7. That there should be a Technical Panel of Area Municipal BELCASTRO
Staff and Regional Staff representatives to review the SPADAFORA
findings and have input in the direction to any Consultant MAYOR GOULBOURNE
reporting to the Steering Committee.
CARRIED ef
LOST 0
NOT PUT 0
, . -
,
COUNCIL ~
PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION SERVICES
PUBLIC WORKS DIVISION
REPORT ENG-2006-03
C.A STiRTZlNGEP" City Clerk February 21, 2006
CITY OF WEU~ANO
""...................,0;_
SUBJECT: REGION WATERlWASTEWATER SUSTAINABILlTY REVIEW
D. Shantz, P.Eng.
GENERAL MANAGER
ENGINEERING, PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION:
1. "That City of Weiland petition the Minister of Public Infrastructure Renewal the
Honourable David Caplan requesting that Recommendation 4.9 of the Watertight Report
not be included in the consideration for the "White Paper" to be issued by the Province
on the implementation of the Sustainable Water and Sewage Systems Act (SWSSA)
and its regulations;
2. That Council support Staff in its initiative to work with other area municipalities in efforts
to meet with Ministry of Public Infrastructure staff on the merits of continued delivery of
water and wastewater services through the operations of local area municipalities
pursuing best practice procedures, and exclusion of Watertight Recommendation 4.9
from the "White Paper" on SWSSA;
3. That Council is in support of the revised direction of the proposed Regional Water &
Wastewater Services Organizational Sustainability Review study so that existing delivery
of water and wastewater services through the local area municipalities would be the only
focus of the review;
4. That Council support efforts to persuade Regional Council to advise the Minister of
Public Infrastructure and Renewal that it is not in favour of Recommendation 4.9 of the
Watertight Report. "
5. That Region of Niagara be advised that the City of Weiland does not support the limited
make up of the proposed Steering Committee for the Water and Wastewater Services
Organizational Sustainability Review study;
6. That there should be better representation from the Area Municipalities on the Steering
Committee, so that there could be an opportunity for a representative of every Area
Municipality to be included; and
7. That there should be a Technical Panel of Area Municipal Staff and Regional Staff
representatives to review the findings and have input in the direction to any Consultant
reporting to the Steering Committee.
()lr'-l~
,.
"
.
Report on Region Water/Wastewater System REPORT ENG-2006-03
Sustainability Review February 21, 2006
Page 2
ORIGIN AND BACKGROUND:
Regional Niagara has requested comment on Report, "PWA 218-2005 Water & Wastewater
Services Organization Sustainability Review", which is a response to the Watertight Report.
Both the proposed Regional report and the Watertight Report require careful consideration and
comment from the City of Weiland.
In May 2005, the Provincial Government's Water Strategy Expert Panel released its report,
"Watertight: The case for change in Ontario's Water and Wastewater Sector". The panel was
originally convened as a further development resulting from the recommendations from the
Inquiry led by Judge Dennis O'Connor into the 2000 Walkerton water system tragedy.
The Watertight Report is to be followed by the development of a "White Paper" to develop the
form and rationale for new regulations to implement the Sustainable Water and Sewage
Systems Act 2002.
The expert panel's prime focus has been to make recommendations on how best to
economically deliver the high quality standards recommended by Justice O'Connor for water
systems, and ex1end that review to wastewater systems as well. The panel's report makes
recommendations over a wide range of topics affecting the provision of water and wastewater
services, but primarily focuses on the necessity for sustainability of the funding to provide those
services, and suggests consolidation of small systems to improve this.
However, the panel further ex1ends its suggestions for consolidation with Recommendation 4.9
which states "The Municipal Act should be amended to give all Regional Municipalities
exclusive jurisdiction over all elements of the water and wastewater sector". The panel's
recommendation on this matter appears to be developed from the discussions and
presentations made to the group, and were not necessarily related to any documented
experience about lack of sustainability in Area municipalities of Regions.
Regional staff has provided the Regional Public Works Committee with a review of the
Watertight report. The review also suggested that a Regional Council Business Planning
workshop addressing organizational sustainability supported the initiation of a joint study to be
done on the current assets and services of the Region and Area municipalities to "ultimately
allow the Region to speak with "One Voice", directed by a Joint Steering Committee.
Previous to the 6 December, 2005 Report, Regional staff also presented Report PWP 62-2005
entitled Report of the Provincial Water Strategy Expert Panel to the Regional Public Works
Committee on 23 August, 2005.
To direct the joint study, Regional staff originally proposed that the primary focus of the
Committee would be to consider alternative service delivery models, and provided a table of
choices to be considered. These include a variety of single entity organizations. However,
none of the choices include the current form of operation distributed between the Region and
the Area municipalities. This suggested that Regional staff assumed that the consolidation of all
water and wastewater systems as a single body would occur, and that this study would simply
to determine how it would be done.
To this end, City of Weiland Staff and other Area Municipal representatives have met as a group
to discuss the Regional Report proposal for the Water/Sewer Services Organizational
Sustainability Review. The group has also had a meeting with representatives of the Area
Municipalities of Waterloo Region to discuss their actions on this matter. Subsequent to these
, .
.
Report on Region Water/Wastewater System REPORT ENG-2006-03
. Sustainability Review February 21, 2006
Page 3
meetings, the terms of reference for the Regional Sustainability Review were changed by
Regional Council to focus on the existing model of shared operations between the Region and
the Area Municipalities.
The Regional report for the Review also makes reference to the formation of a Steering
Committee to direct the study. The report proposes very limited input from Area Municipalities,
but would include representatives of at least 5 outside agencies and community interests.
City of Weiland Council has communicated its support for the existing method of service in its
resolution to the Region on January 17, 2006, with its request for extension for comments on
the Regional Organization Sustainability report calling for a review of the Water and Wastewater
systems. This report is intended to follow up on Council's direction on this matter and seek
endorsement for both the Mayor and City staff to proceed with actions at Regional Council and
with other Area Municipalities to address the response to the Watertight Report and the
proposed Regional Water & Wastewater Services Organizational Sustainability Review.
ANALYSIS:
The Watertight report in general is a good discussion about the need for adequate provisions to
ensure that municipal water and wastewater systems are adequately funded to provide the safe
operation recommended by the report of the O'Connor Inquiry. There are legitimate concerns
that municipal agencies need to provide adequate funding for the proper operation and
maintenance of water and wastewater systems to ensure their sustainability. To this end, the
Watertight Expert Panel makes 51 recommendations, many of which can be supported.
In the Watertight report, it was recognized that some smaller communities will have difficulties
and have not been making the improvements needed to provide water and wastewater services
to meet the new standards of operation and maintenance. Provisions will have to be developed
to handle this.
However, many municipalities have already taken on the burden of making substantial upgrades
to their systems already, and there is considerable concern that they will also be required to
share the additional burden of municipalities with uneconomical operations who have not kept
up with their obligations. From this finding, conclusions appear to have been drawn, resulting in
a number of recommendations suggesting that a "big" operation is inherently better and more
sustainable than a "small" operation.
The report recommends the consolidation of operating authorities so that the high costs of some
small uneconomical systems can be carried by the subsidization from larger, more economic
agencies. As an extension to this consolidation theme, the Watertight report goes on to suggest
in Recommendation 4.9 that 2nd Tier Area Municipalities shall hand over the operation and
ownership of their water and wastewater systems to their Regional Municipality. The economic
rationale for this recommendation has not been validated, and no supporting research provided.
Consolidation of water and wastewater services in a two Tier Region to a single central
operating entity, such as a Regional authority, is not necessarily more cost-effective than when
provided by local Area municipal providers. Some Regions do presently operate this way, but
better economics of scale have not been proven.
Many smaller municipalities operate water and wastewater utilities which are economically
sustainable, and support the necessary investment in maintenance and infrastructure renewal.
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Report on Region Water/Wastewater System REPORT ENG-2006-03
Sustainability Review February 21, 2006
Page 4
This is certainly the case for the Area Municipalities of Niagara. In addition, it is the local
municipality, who is closest to their customers, who can continue to provide a service
responsive to the needs of those customers and to the development of the community.
Furthermore, removal of the local area municipalities from participating in this role will seriously
jeopardize the sustainability of the operation of Area Municipalities if its operation is only
mandated to continue with the few ongoing responsibilities of roads, parks, planning and civic
duties, supported by property taxes alone.
The outcome of the meetings with Public Works Officials from other Area Municipalities was to
agree on a preferred response to both the Watertight Report and the Regional report on the
Sustainability Review. The consensus with Regional Waterloo lower tier municipalities was that
each municipality should individually appeal to the Minister of Public Infrastructure and Renewal
to exclude the Watertight Recommendation 4.9 from being included in the "White Paper" for the
development of regulations for the Sustain ability of Water and Wastewater Systems Act 2002
(SWWSA).
Furthermore, it was agreed that it would be useful to try and get a meeting of Area Municipality
staff with Ministry of Public Infrastructure and Renewal Staff. This meeting would be to present
the operational side of the benefits of continuing water and sewer operations through the Area
Municipalities, and not consolidating those services within a single entity, the Region, as
proposed in the Watertight Report.
With respect to the Regional position and report, it was suggested in the group that the Area
Municipalities should move to modify the Regional position with respect to both the Watertight
Recommendation 4.9 and the Sustainability Review. Through the ongoing development and
implementation of Best Practices, the present 2 Tier Model of operation works efficiently, where
the Regional municipality provides the water supply, wastewater treatment, and
watermain/sewer trunk/storage/pumping facilities to serve one or more communities. The Area
Municipalities provide the local water distribution, wastewater collection, system planning, and
billing, and this works well in Niagara, and in the Regions of Waterloo and York.
Given these successful cases of proper operation and the apparent lack of studies to the
contrary, Recommendation 4.9 appears to be without basis in fact, and should not be supported
by either the Area Municipalities or the Region. Again, this comment should be communicated
to the Minister and staff of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure and Renewal as part of the
Regional position. Following the recent Regional Council changes in the direction of the Review
Study, the sustainability of the continued delivery of Water and Wastewater services through the
local Area Municipalities will be documented and reviewed for improvement opportunities.
With respect to the make-up of the proposed Steering Committee for the Review Study, the
Region currently suggests only 2 or more political representatives of the Region and similarly for
Area Municipalities, joined by 5 representatives of relatively unrelated agencies and community
sectors. Presumably this group would be led or supported by Regional staff that would set the
agenda and direct the Consultant. Such a group represents very limited Area Municipality input
and is unlikely to be able to fully understand the pro's, cons, and applicability of the findings of
the Consultant. Therefore, the proposed Steering Committee would be very dependant on the
position of Regional staff and agencies directly supported by the Region with funding collected
from Area Municipalities. (NPCA & Niagara Economic Development Corp.)
It is recommended that the Committee should instead include more Regional and Area
Municipal representatives to better represent the varied concerns of Area Municipalities. The
,
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Report on Region Water/Wastewater System REPORT ENG-2006-03
. Sustainability Review February 21, 2006
Page 5
value of inclusion of the 5 unrelated agency representatives is doubtful, and they are likely to
dilute the input from the Area Municipalities.
Furthermore, the findings of the study should first be considered by a Technical Panel of a staff
member from every Area Municipality interested in participating and Regional staff, co-chaired
by a representative of both the Region and the Area Municipalities. This Technical Panel could
then report to and recommend action to a Steering Committee that has political representatives
from every Area Municipality. Such a structure has been used on other Regional programs to
assist with ensuring that the necessary features known better by the technical operating staff
are included in the study and its direction.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS:
The provision of water and wastewater services by the Area Municipality supports
approximately 25% of the administrative costs of the City of Weiland. Loss of these operations
will not only result in a loss in numbers of the staff directly involved, but will remove financial
support for a portion of Engineering Management, Human Resources, Planning Services,
Development Services, Financial Services, as well as the office of the Mayor and the City
Manager. A case could even be made to increase the proportion that the water/sewer service
rates carry of these aspects of the municipal operation to help control the size of the municipal
tax burden.
Loss of water/sewer services will result in an increased loading to the municipal tax burden, and
could further threaten the sustainability of all of the Area Municipalities of Niagara.
SUMMARY:
Recommendation 4.9 of the Watertight Report by the provincial Water Strategy Expert Panel
recommends that Regional Municipalities should be given exclusive jurisdiction over all
elements of water and wastewater operations.
The City of Weiland and the Region of Niagara should indicate their respective opposition to this
recommendation, and make a request to the Minister of Public Infrastructure and Renewal that
this Recommendation not be included in the "White Paper" for the implementation of the
Sustainable Water and Sewage Systems Act (SWSSA).
Furthermore, the proposed Water and Wastewater Services Organizational Sustainability
Review should focus on the existing model of shared operation between the Region and the
local Area Municipalities. The proposed make-up of the Steering Committee should be revised
to incorporate greater input from the Area Municipalities and technical expertise from Regional
and Area Municipal staff.
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III ,-
ANN EX F. Summary of recommendations
)
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~ Recommendation4.1 ~ Recommendation 4.4
The Province should require, under sections 3, The business plan should be approved by county
-_1. 9..10 and,.if necessaty;_l1.DL5-WSSA.____...... or regional municipal council and by the council
the creation of business plans for submission to of any included separated city and submitted to
the Ontario Water Board. These plans should the Ontario Water Board by June 30, 2007.
be produced by single-tier municipalities not ~ Recommendation 4.5
located within the boundaries of a county; by
regional municipalities; and by counties, working The Water Board may require deficiencies in
in cooperation with the lower-tier municipalities a business plan or group of business plans to be
and separated single-tier municipalities within made good, without relaxing the time line,
their boundaries. before it accepts the business plan(s) and begins
detailed analysis.
.. Recommendation 4.2
The geographical basis of a business plan may, ~ Recommendation 4.6
if agreed with the relevant jurisdiction(s), The Water Board should no later than June 30,
extend beyond the boundaries of the county, 2008 render a decision on the business plan.
single-tier municipality or regional municipality; Where, despite requests for the repair of deli-
and should contain wherever possible a minimum ciencies, an adequate plan has not been submitted,
of 10,000 customers. or the Board does not approve the plan that was
submitted, the Board may exercise the powers
... Recommendation4.3 under section 12 of SWSSA. )
The business plan should be consistent with all
.. Recommendation4.7 ..
requirements of SWSSA and SDWA, with provin-
cial growth management policy, and with municipal Section 54 of the OWRA should be repealed. (
official plans; should include a governance, finan- .. Recommendation 4.8
cial and accountability model and a proposed rate The principal municipality in each cluster in the
structure; and should take into account: North should take the lead in developing the
- efficiencies available through technological business plan, following the prOcess and time
choice and innovation as well as economies of frame set out in Recommendations 4.1 through
scale and scope; 4.6 and involving municipalities and local services
boards, and First Nations communities in the
- efficient provision of service, including existing cluster as appropriate.
or revised contracting possibilities; .. Recommendation4.9
- natural economic communities, such as The Munic9'>alActshould be amended to give all
centres which draw commuters from the Regional Municipalities exclusive jurisdiction over
surrounding area; all elements of the water and wastewater sector.
- management of septage on a county or multi- ... Recommendation4.10
county basis; and The provincial government should provide one-
- the governance principles in Recommendations time financial assistance consisting of a uniform
per-customer grant for the total customer base
5.1 through 5.5. covered by each business plan, to be paid when
the Water Board accepts the plan. )
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: WATERTIGHT: The cue for Change In Ontario's wllter and wastewllter sector
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j ~ ... RecommendationS.1 .. Recommendation S.S
The Province should amend O. Reg. 168/03, All financial flows between water services
under the Municipal Act, to allow municipalities and municipalities should be reported publicly.
to form corporations to deliver water and waste- ... RecommendationS.6
water services and to own or lease the relevant The Province should commission and publish
assets, or to deliver a range of municipal services
including water and wastewater, and to make it basic-contract templates for water and waste-
possible for more than one municipality to share water operations ranging from short-term.
in the ownership of such corporations. operating contracts to long-term lease and
concession arrangements.
... RecommendationS.2 ... Recommendation6.1
At least two-thirds of the directors of the board
of a water service should be drawn from private The Province should create a new regulatory
}ife, with any remainder consisting of appoint- body called the Ontario Water Board, reporting
ments from municipal council. to the Legislature through the. Minister of the
Environment, and grant the powers of the l\i(inister
.. Recommendation S.3 under SWSSA to the. Board. The Board should.
A shareholder's declaration between the municipal anal~ and rule on water service business plans
owner and a corporation delivering water services and compliance with quality management certifi-
should set out, at a minimum: cation, and may hold hearings, recei-ve submissions
- The powers, selection, and terms of and make decisions regarding, among other
things, business plans, issues of se~ce quality,
board members; abuse of dominant position, and franchise areas.
) - Reporting and accountability requirements; ... Recommendation 6.2
- Standard of care and diligence (and indemnifi- ,The Ontario Water Board should require water
) cation when acting in good faith); services to provide information annually about
- The requirement for an annual business plan, their compliance with its regulatory regime and
annual and quarterly public reporting, and their financial and service performance, and
a public annual general meeting; should ensure that this information is made
available to the public in a way that allows mean-
- Actions requiring shareholder ratification, ingful comparisons with the goals set by each
such as the annual business plan, rates, water service and the performance of a peer group.
ora dividend policy;
- The shareholder's residual power of ... Recommendation6.3
The Water Board should normally require an
direction; and . update of business plans only every fi-ve years,
- Any other basic matters of operations and on a staggered basis; any proposed material
policy in which the shareholder is concerned. change to the plan before the end of the five-
... Recommendation 5.4 year period should be submitted to the Board
Water services should have responsibility for for approval.
metering, billing and collecting arrangements, ... Recommendation 6.4
and should maintain separate accounts from The Province should amend the Saft Drinlr.ing
those of their municipality; water provided to Water Act to include a certification and
the municipality should be priced at the same licensing procedure for wastewater operations
rate that other customers pay; and all other on the model of the Drinking Water Qyality
transactions between the parties, such as Management Standard.
) o-verhead, should be priced at market value.
) ,
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~ Recommendation 6.5 ... Recommendation 7.4 'I
Qnce R' wat~r or wastewater system operator is The Ontario Water Board should provide
licensed under SDWA, and operating under guidance to the water sector to ensure consistent
a business plan approved by the Water Board, application of full-cost recovery regulations and
it should no longer be required to obtain a appropriate accounting standards.
. - -----€-ertificate-of-Approval-for-any systennl'dd;~uu __.... ..___.~, _n.._ _
or change approved by a professional engineer. ... Recommendation 7.5
Section 43 of SDWA and other references to COMRIF and any future grant programs for
a certificate of compliance for municipal water water or wastewater projects in a sustainable
and wastewater systems should be repealed. system should be phased out by the start of the
.... Recommendation 6.6 2012 municipal fiscal year. In the meantime,
grants should be conditional on the project being
The Ministry of the Environment should, in compliance with all relevant legislation and
in consultation with. municipalities and water the recommendations of this report, including
. services, create a registry of all non-municipal the recommendations on business planning.
systems serving between six and 100 users;
should identify those that pose the most urgent .. Recommendation 7.6
risks to public health and, working with muni- The focus of any water component of provincial
cipalities and water services, act as quickly as and federal infrastructure programs should be
possible to mitigate those risks in the most unsustainable systems only; funds should not
cost-effective way possible; and' should develop be limited to capital purposes, and should be
a long-term plan to minimize the risks and routinely available once eligibility criteria are met.
costs associated with the remaining systems. ... Recommendation 7.7
.... Recommendation 7.1 OSIFA should focus its efforts on )
In addition to ordinary commercial borrowing, infrastructure needs other than water and
corporatired water services should have the wastewater infrastructure. i
power to issue revenue bonds. ... Recommendation 7.8
... Recommendation 7.2 Where average.water and wastewater unit costs
Mter exhausting all other normal means of in a water service will be more than 2.5 times the
collection, water services should be able to transfer provincial average unit cost of production under
arrears to the municipality, which would then full-cost recovery, after all possible cost savings,
place the arrears on the property tax roll as a lien cross-subsidizations and consolidations have
on the associated real property that is collectible been considered, and on the petition of the water
as taxes. The amount of the lien should include service owner, the Water Board should have the
all outstanding bills, accrued interest, and related power to declare the water service unsustainable
legal and collection costs. and place the relevant assets and liabilities under
... Recommendation 7.3 provincial trusteeship.
Water service business plans should be based on ... Recommendation 7.9
",u-a-transirioo.-t-e-fulI-oest reo0v~ry-ef-B<>t-moFe" .----- ._Th.e_P~ovinceshould operate and maintain, under
than five years from initial submission of the contract, unsustainable water services, absorbing all
business case to the Water Board. costs above the 2.5 times average threshold, until
it has found a way of reducing costs below that
threshold; whereupon it may petition the Ontario
Water Board for an unwinding of the trusteeship.
)
'I WATERTIGHT: The cue for change In Ontario', water and wastewater sector -
.
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-". ... Recommendation 8.S
)1 ... Recommendation 8.1
Metering should be mandatory in all sustainable Wastewater facilities should be able to charge for
water. systems. septage handling and treatment, with charges set
.. Recommendation 8.2 . out in the rate structure developed through the
The water rate may include a constant portion, business planning process.
reptesenting the fixed costs of providing the .. Recommendation 9.1
service, and mus~ include a non-de,creasing MOE should devote additional resources on a
volumetric charge: continuing basis to assisting in.the timelyadap-
.. Recommendation8.3 tation of innovative technologies and techniques
..--- ',---. - - ---VOlumetriC water rates showa- not Oiscnrriinate--' _~e in Ontario's water ann wg~tf>:~te.LsettQi:'.. .---..,-
among industrial, commercial, institutional, .. Recommendation 9.2
.residential, recreational or municipal classes of The Ministry of the Environment should ensure
customer ,of a water system. that training is more readily available in remote
.. Recommendation 8.4 locations, through distance learning, "circuit
rider" trainers,' accreditation of more qualified
Water service business plans should include an institutions or organizations, and recognition of
assessment of the costs and benefits of using accreditation from other provinces having certifi-
seasonally varying prices to flatten demand. cation standards similar to those of Ontario.
.. Recommendation 8.5 .. Recommendation 9.3
A development charge should be used to pay MOE should work with the Ontario Municipal
for any increase in .capacity that benefits a Water Association (OMWA) and the Ontario
. spe~c consumer or new group of consumerSj
j Water Works Association (OWWA) to assess
where development charges are not available the need to increase the number of people avail-
) to the water service, business plans must show able to undertake professional and directorial
how expansion .wiIl be paid for without burdening roles in the Ontario water industry, and to offer
existing customers. training and skills upgrading as necessary.
.. Recommendation 8.6 .. Recommendation 10.1
In the case of a major industrial development The Province should amend the Capital
with benefits to the provincial economy as a whole, Investment Plan Act to delete reference to
the Province may elect to pay some or all of the OCWA; OCWA should be incorporated under
incremental water and wastewater capital costs. the OntaTi~ Business C~rp~;-ati~ns Act and have
.. Recommendation 8.7 all the ordinary powers, responsibilities and
Where the cost of a subsidy from the general liabilities of a normal OBCA corporation,
customer base to an existing group of residential with the Province as its sole shareholder; OCWA
consumers would be less than the social costs should cease to be an agent of Ontario, and its
of not providing the subsidy, and as long as the employees should cease to be members of the
subsidy will not make rates unaffordable to Ontario Public Service.
general CUStomers, the general customer base
may be used to subsidize service to that group.
)
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~ Recommendation 10.2 .. Recommendation 10.8 i
The Province should draft a new Shareholder If the Province assumes the pipeline and its debt,
Declaration setting out the activities, goals and it should then arrange fot OCWA or another
governance of the corporation, which should certified operator to operate the pipeline under a
include the freedom to enter into joint ventures long-term lease or concession arrangement, with
and other arrangements with other sector partici- the contractor having the power to maximize
, 'piints~-whetherin' the public or private sector. the'revenues of the pipeline so long as the effect
.. Recommendation 10.3 is not to increase the price of water to Bonda ..
beyond what it would otherwise have been, nor
The Province should name aboard composed to make water rates for other custom~s unac-
of experienced and competent people from the ceptably high, in the view of the Water Board.
private sector who have full authority to appoint
the chief executive and senioroflicers ofOCWA. .. Recommendation 10.9
.. Recommendation 10.4 ' Emergency plans required under SDWA should
include arrangements with nearby water services
The new ,board should draw up a strategic plan for mutual assistance in emergencies.
aimed at achieving OCWXs full potential in
its revitalized form in the context of Ontario's
reformed water sector and, if it wishes, in other
markets as well.
.. Recommendation 10.5
On the basis ofits acceptance of the strategic
plan, the Provineeshould ensure that OCWXs
capital structure is appropriate to the activities '. )
it will carry out. 1
.. Recommendation 10.6
The Province should no longer guarantee the
obligations of OCWA nor indemnifY its actions;
OCWA should pay all normal taxes and be able
to make independent banking arrangements.
.. Recommendation 10.7
Before May 2006, unless a suitable new reventie
source for the pipeline appears, the Province
should arrange for the wind-up of the New
Tecumseth Improvement Society and provincial
assumption of its assets and such of its debt as'
cannot be serviced from reasonable user charges.
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-'WATERTIGHT' Th. cu. f., ch.n,. In Onto".', wot., .nO wutewot., nct.. j
-
, ,
fJY1 @jlceo/tk~~~~ Thorold
~
~ ~ ..;
Where Ships Climb The Mountain.., "
March 9, 2006
The Honourable Laurel C. Broten,
Minister of the Environment
12'h Floor, 135 St. Clair Avenue West
Toronto, Ontario
M4V 1P5
Dear Minister Broten:
Re: Resolution Respecting Glass Return System
Please be advised that Thorold City Council at its meeting of March 7, 2006 adopted the following
resolution:
WHEREAS since glass holds a significant share of the total beverage and food
market, recovering glass for true "bottle-to-bottle" recycling is good for Ontario's
environment and economy;
AND WHEREAS there are lost environmental opportunities to reduce energy use
and emissions in the current approach to the recovery of glass in Ontario;
AND WHEREAS the Province of Ontario has an opportunity through the beverage
industry, including the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO), to introduce a
deposit-return system utilizing the environment fee that is already imposed on the
sale of each container,
%
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NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE CORPORATION OF THE CITY F
OF THOROLD HEREBY ENACTS AS FOLLOWS: '"
<'>
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1. THAT the City of Thorold request the Province of Ontario to introduce a ~
deposit-return system to the beverage industry, including the Liquor Control 00
w
Board of Ontario, utilizing the environment fee that is already imposed on p
w
the sale of each container. p
':::>
Cl1
u..:,
2. AND FURTHER THAT a copy of this resolution be forwarded to Laurel
Broten, Minister of the Environment, John Gerretsen, Minister of Municipal
City 01 Thorold
p.o. Box 1044, B Carleton Street South, Thorold, ontario 12V 4A7
www.lhoPoId.com
Tel: 905-227-8813
I.
Page 2,
Letter re: Glass Return System
Affairs and Housing, Roger Anderson, President, AMO, Kim Craitor, M.P.P., Niagara Falls Riding,
Peter Kormos, M.P.P" Niagara Centre Riding, Regional Municipality of Niagara and area
municipalities.
Yours truly,
~
' .1.,;. ()( .
Susan M. Daniels, AMCT
Deputy City Clerk
SMD:hhm
cc: The Honourable John Gerretsen, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing
Roger Anderson, President, Association of Municipalities of Ontario
Kim Craitor, M,P.P" Niagara Falls, Riding
Peter Kormos, M.P.P" Niagara Centre Riding
Regional Municipality of Niagara
Area Municipalities
em: M, Weir, Chief Administrative Officer
J.K. Sice, City Clerk
M. Mauro, Director of Finance
ov.TIOJ\I O.t- CORPORATION OF THE COUNTY OF GREY
~ OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK/DIRECTOR OF COUNCIL SERVICES
Sharon Vokes, County Clerk/Director of Council Services (519) 376-2205
595 9th Avenue East 1-800-567-GREY
Owen Sound, Ontario Fax: (519) 376-8998
"0 #'" N4K 3E3 svokes@9reyoounty,on,ca
~o,Ci
March 8, 2006.
To all Municipalities in Ontario:
Ladies and Gentlem en:
At the March 7, 2006 session of Grey County Council, the following resolution was adopted:
WHEREAS the Association of Municipalities of Ontario has recognized that a $3 billion
Provincial/Municipal fiscal gap currently exists, in terms of a shortfall, for municipalities;
AND WHEREAS one-third of municipal spending goes to Provincial health and social services
programs;
AND WHEREAS Ontario is the only Province in Canada where municipal property taxes are used to
subsidize Provincial health and social services program s;
AND WHEREAS municipalities continue to place increased financial pressure on the property
taxpayers to meet these financial demands;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Corporation of the County of Grey urges the
Association of Municipalities of Ontario and the Provincial Government to develop a plan to begin to
address this municipal financial crisis, by contributing to municipalities, beginning in 2006, a
Provincial commitment to Ontario's municipalities, of $600 million per year for the next five years,
this commitment will begin to address the serious financial crisis facing municipalities in Ontario;
AND FURTHER THAT the County of Grey urges the Government of Ontario to come to the
Association of Municipalities of Ontario Conference with an announcement confirming this
commitment and a process to unroll this funding to municipalities;
AND FURTHER THAT this resolution be forwarded to all municipalities in Ontario and the
Association of Municipalities of Ontario for their support;
AND FURTHER THAT this resolution be sent to the Premier of Ontario, the Ministers of Finance and
Municipal Affairs and Housing and all of Cabinet.
Your Council's support of this resolution is respectfully requested.
Yours very truly,
THE COUNTY OF GREY
i tliJ
Mrs. Sharon Vokes, C,M,O" D,P.A.,
County Clerk/Director of Council Services
*je
_._--"------- I.
City of Owen Sound
808 2nd Avenue East
Owen Sound ON N4K 2H4
Phone: 519-376-1440/Fax: 519-371-0511
E-Mail: ghenry@e-owensound.com
March 23, 2006
Premier Dalton McGuinty
Room 281, Main Legislative Building
Queen's Park
TORONTO ON M7AIA4
Dear Premier McGuinty:
Re: MUNICIPAL FINANCIAL CRISIS
City Council, at its meeting held on March 2, 2006 considered the above noted
matter and the following resolution was adopted:
"WHEREAS the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) has
recognized that a $3 billion Provincial/Municipal fiscal gap currently exists, in
terms of a shortfall, for municipalities; and
WHEREAS one-third of municipal spending goes to Provincial health and
social services programs; and
WHEREAS Ontario is the only Province in Canada where municipal
property taxes are used to subsidize Provincial health and social service
programs; and
WHEREAS municipalities continue to place increased financial pressure
on the property taxpayers to meet these financial demands;
NOW THEREFORE The Corporation of the City of Owen Sound urges the
Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) and the Provincial Government
to develop a plan to begin to address this municipal financial crisis, by
contributing to municipalities, beginning in 2006, a Provincial commitment to
Ontario's municipalities, of $600 million per year for the next five years, this
commitment will begin to address the serious financial CrISIS facing
municipalities in Ontario, and further
THAT we urge the Government of Ontario to come to the AMO
Conference with an announcement confirming this commitment and a process
to unroll this funding to municipalities, and further
THAT this resolution be forwarded to all municipalities in Ontario and
the Association of Municipalities for their support, and further
THAT this resolution be sent to the Premier of Ontario, the Ministers of
Finance and Municipal Affairs and Housing and all of Cabinet."
We look forward to hearing from you respecting the above.
Yours truly,
Marion 1. Koepke, C.M.O., Deputy City Clerk
I. --.--".-
~~ ONTARIO LA MARCHE
MARCH DES DIX SOUS
lIIll: :llIIIIl OF DIMES DE L'ONTARIO
March 2, 2006
HONORARY PATRON /
PATRON HONORAIRE
The Honourable Il'honorable
James K. Bartleman
Lieutenant Governor of Ontario
Lieutenant-gouverneur de l'Ontario
PATRONS / PATRONS Dear Friend:
The Honourable IL"honorable
Lincoln M. Alexander This year, National Access Awareness Week is from May 28 - June 3, 2006,
p.c, c.e., O.Ont., Q.C./ C.P. c.c.. a.Ont.. c.R. National Access Awareness Week's mission statement is to challenge all
June Callwood
C.c.,Q.Ont../c.c.,o.ont. Canadians to affect changes through community partnerships that result in
The Honourable lL'honol"abte equal access and full participation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of
Henry N.R.Jackman Canadian life.
D.C.. a.Ont., I a.c., O.Ont.
Veronica Tennant The Ontario March of Dimes - Niagara is continuing to highlight this important
a.c/o.c. designation by hosting a "Breaking the Barrier" Awards Ceremony to pay tribute to
The Honourable lL'honorable
Hilary M. Weston local businesses, organizations, and individuals for their contributions that result in
O.Ont./O.Ont. the integration of persons with disabilities in our community.
HONORARY CHAIR / Past recipients of the "Breaking the Barrier" Awards have been people who have
PRESIDENT HONORAIRE made their business barrier-free, employers who have hired persons with disabilities,
The Honourable lL'honorable and volunteers who have devoted their lives to helping persons with disabilities
David Peterson
P.c..Q.c./C.P.,C.R. become independent. If you know an individual, organization, or business in
your community that is deserving of such an award, please complete the
HONORARYCAMPAIGNCHAlRI enclosed nomination form and return it to my attention by Friday, April 21,
PRESIDENT HONORAlRE DE 2006.
LA CAMPAGNE
Leslie Nielsen
O.c./O.c. In addition, we cordially invite you to celebrate National Access Awareness Week
by attending our "Breaking the Barrier" Awards Ceremony and BBQ on
CHAIR / PRESIDENT DU CONSEIL Wednesday, May 31, 2006, at 11 a.m. at Lakeside Park in St. Catharines. Details
D'ADMINISTRATION of this event are outlined in the enclosed flyer. Please feel free to post and circulate
David A. Boyle this invitational flyer to other friends and colleagues who may wish to join in the
CMClCMC
celebration.
PRESIDENT & CEO /
DlRECTRICE GENERALE et PDG We look forward to receiving your nomination and/or seeing you at the ceremony.
Andria Spindel
Sincerely, ~
SO~GION I - Vl ~
i\......tiVI.. c..c ~ . ""-. ~
3300 Me,\!~:"Highway ""'
~
3300, rout~,t:teMerrittville
Thorold,~ 4Y6 Lorraine Nadeau, Chairperson ""'
Tel.JTOIep. (905) 687.8484 National Access Awareness Week Committee ~
1.800.263-4742 <:>
FaxlT61k (905) 685.6651 Ene, ~
TTY: (905) 687.9522 I~
W
W:WW.dimes.on.ca ,.::;.
<:>
Charitable Registration No. creating a society inclusive of people with physical disabilities
No enreg. oeuvre de bienf. creer une societe englobant les personnes ayant un handicap physique
(BN) 10788 3928 RROOO I
I. rT
NATIONAL ACCESS AWARENESS WEEK ~~ONTARIO LA MARCHE
MAY 28 - JUNE 3, 2006 MARCH DES DIX saJS
~ .... OF DIMES DE l'ONTARIO
"BREAKING THE BARRIER" AWARDS
National Access Awareness Week's mission statement is to challenge all Canadians to affect changes
through community partnerships that result in equal access and full participation of persons with
disabilities in all aspects of Canadian life.
Ontario March of Dimes - South Region continues to highlight this important designation by hosting a
"Breaking the Barrier" Awards Ceremony to pay tribute to local businesses, organizations and individuals for
their contributions resulting in the integration of persons with disabilities in our community. A selection
committee will choose up to 10 "Breaking the Barrier" award recipients from all nominations received.
Past recipients of the "Breaking the Barrier" Awards have been people who have made their business barrier-
free, employers who have hired persons with disabilities, or volunteers who have devoted their lives to help
persons with disabilities become independent.
Additionally, the selection committee will award one recipient for each of the following from all nominations
received:
I. "The Joe Dineley Commemorative Award", sponsored by Lewis and Krall Home Health Care,
awarded for exceptional leadership and commitment to furthering the integration and accessibility of persons
with disabilities in the Niagara Community.
2."Accessible Niagara Award", an original watercolour, created and sponsored by Linda Crabtree,
awarded for the exceptional provision of accessible tourism in the Niagara Community.
3. " The Volunteer Excellence Award", a handcrafted mantel clock, created and sponsored by Willy
McLeod, awarded to an exceptional volunteer who facilitates the integration or accessibility of persons with
disabilities.
The award nominees should meet the following criteria:
IF Promote the integration and/or independence of persons with disabilities in all aspects of community life
through physical accessibility and/or social acceptance
IF Not to be given to those whose paid employment role, or educational requirement is to promote the
integration of persons with disabilities in the community.
1& Community-based - reflecting the Niagara Region
If you know an individual, organization or business in your community that is deserving of such an
award, please complete the attached nomination form and return it to Ontario March of Dimes - South
Regional Office by April 21 nd, 2006.
(Over)
-2-
NOMINATION FORM
Name of Nominee:
(individual/business/organization)
Contact Person: (for business/organization)
Mailing Address:
Postal Code:
Telephone Number - Home: Work:
Please indicate the category where the nominee furthered the integration and/or independence of persons with
disabilities:
- Communication - Education
_ Employment _ Transportation
- Recreation _ Housing
- Tourism Volunteer work
-
- Commerce
_ Other (Please identify):
Please describe in detail the nature of the nominee's contribution towards integration and/or independence of
persons with disabilities (e.g. role nominee has played in improving access or integration for persons with
disabilities). Please attach your description on a separate page and include any supporting
documentation to assist in determining your nominee's eligibility for an award.
Name of person submitting the nomination:
Address:
Postal Code:
Telephone Number: Home: Work:
Signature Date
PLEASE SEND NOMINATION FORM AND SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS BY APRIL 21"d. 2006 TO:
The "Breaking the Barrier" Awards Nomination Committee
Ontario March of Dimes - South
3300 Merrittville Highway
Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6
Attention: Lorraine Nadeau
Or Fax: (905) 685-6651
National Access Awareness Week
May 28 - June 3, 2006
"Bringing Canadians together to ensure the full participation of people
with disabilities in community life."
"BREAKING THE BARRIER" AWARDS
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
A wards Ceremony begins at 11 a.m.
Lakeside Park, St. Catharines
.. Recognize contributions made by local citizens and businesses to integrate
persons with disabilities in our community
.. B.B.Q. -12 Noon (minimal cost)
.. Raffle - rt Prize - $200 cash, 2nd Prize - Lewis & Krall Home Health Care- Gift
Basket, 3rd Prize - Shoppers Home Health Care -Gift Basket, 4th Prize - Silver Cross
-Gift Cert. - Tickets $1 ea. /3 for $2
.. Information displays about accessible transportation, recreation programs
and services for persons with disabilities.
For nomination forms and event information, please contact:
905-687-8484 or 1-800-263-4742
T . T. Y.: 905-687-9522 Fax: 905-685- 6651
d' *
www. illleS.on.ca
(*go to Regional Offices, South Region, Events Calendar)
Nomination deadline April 21, 2006
IILewis ~J.ONTARIO lA MARCHE
Meridian~ MARCH DES DIX SOUS
~I~-~~A~! ... .. OF DIMES DE L'ONTARIO
. HomeHealth(:are 'C:/ .
~e.baOO ,~
+ ~!~~~~'LS~,2;~.~oot..,."
._- ----..--- -------- -~--
The Steering Committee
Ontario Family Fishing Weekend
March 13,2006
#"'TIOlV 0+ TO: All Ontario Municipalities
If
': ~"~ SUBJECT: 2006 Ontario Family Fishing Weekend
,\', !
?c, ~
oeOFOVl'.\l. As you know, the Province of Ontario, in partnership with,many nongovernment
organizations like the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, declares one
summer weekend (Friday, July 7 through Sunday, July 9, 2006) a licence-free
fishing weekend.
., CNSF This special weekend, now run in conjunction with National Fishing Week,
C_IIoI.......S_'.......F_ includes fish festivals, clinics, or conservation and educational activities that may
be held in your area.
Would you please help us publicize the 2006 Ontario Family Fishing Weekend in
\.QT1} any calendar of summer events you may participate in or publish. In addition,
please consider "declaring" this date as Ontario Family Fishing Weekend,
For further information, please contact the following during business hours:
Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (705)-748-6324
Conservation Ontario (905)-895-0716
Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (705)-755-1902
Resorts Ontario (705)-325-9115
Thank you for your assistance.
Yours in Conservation, ~
~:~ai:d
on
F'
,....
<1"
~
Ontario Family Fishing Weekend Steering Committee
'"
~ Ontario c/o Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters ~
P.O. Box 2800 ~
Peterborough, Ontario
.....
K9J 8L5 w
~
Fax: (705)-748-6324 0
I:!l /rb
~--;;;.,-
RESORTS
ONTARIO
Ontario Division Canadian Union of Public Employees
305 Milner Ave, Suite 801, Scarborough, ON M1 B 3V4
Tel: 416 299 9739 . Fax: 416 299 3480 . E-mail~c>! eont@web.net
/ .Y<'c;'~i~t!
March 1, 2006 ;;..;.'/ . ~We.O
R. T. (Ted) Salci ."1> ~~~!. \l96
City of Niagara Falls 14t\\ 0 ~ ~ t:
City Hall O?:,Ofi\C~
4310 Queen St., P.O. Box 1023 l~'i .
Niagara Falls, ON . ,'~
L2E 6X5 'a \ /
Dear Mayor:
I am writing on behalf of 150,000 CUPE Ontario members living and working in communities
across the province, to urge you to join other municipalities in pressuring federal and provincial
governments to preserve the national child care program and our federal provincial child care
agreement on Early Learning and Care - Best Start Plan.
The federal-provincial bi-Iateral early learning and care agreement, laid the foundation for
Ontario's Best Start Plan and CMSM/DSSAB Best Start Transitional/Infrastructure Plans which
will create the following:
. 25,000 regulated child care spaces;
· increased services for children with special needs; and
. improved quality standards and increased compensation for those working in the field.
Municipal governments in Ontario have a direct and vested interest for ensuring their Best Start
Transitional Plans and Best Start Infrastructure Plans receive the funding they need to come to
fruition,
The City of Toronto recently passed a Motion that commits to work with families, child care
programs and advocates in that city to ensure the federal government fulfils its five-year funding
commitment to build a national early learning and care program in Ontario and across Canada.
We are writing to encourage your Council to take similar action and to join with community
partners in sending a clear message to the federal government that Ontario residents expect
them to honour these agreements.
Cancellation of the federal/provincial Early Learning and Child Care program by the new
Conservative government puts all our municipal child care plans in jeopardy. We urge you to act
now to protect these plans and the interests of children and families in your municipality,
Sincerely,
~%~
Patrick (Sid) Ryan
President
cope343 S/SidleVBeststartplantemp
Patrick (Sid) Ryan "ONE STRONG VOICE" Brian O'Keefe
President ~H * Secretary- Treasurer
RECEIVED'
March 8, 2006 MAR 1 3 2006
To the Mayor and Council OFFICE OF
THE ADMINISTRATOR
I am writing, on behalf of the 54,000 members of the Canadian Union of Postal Workers
(CUPW), to update you on our campaign to stop plant and post office closures and thank you for
your interest in the future of public postal service.
Municipalities in all parts of the country have discussed and debated the subject of public postal
service in council, written to us for further information and contacted members of Parliament.
Over 800 municipalities have also passed resolutions calling on the minister responsible for
Canada Post and the federal government to instruct Canada Post Corporation:
I. to stop the closure of the mail sorting plant in Quebec City and proposed closures
elsewhere
2. to maintain, expand and improve our public postal network
3. to consult with the public, postal unions and other major stakeholders to develop a
uniform and democratic process for making changes to Canada Post's network.
I am pleased to tell you that Arbitrator Guy Dulude recently rendered a landmark decision in
which he ruled that Canada Post must notify the union "as far as possible in advance" of
technological changes such as closures. Unfortunately, this only applies to post offices and
plants where CUPW members work. In such cases, the union undertakes to notify the elected
officials of the area, including municipal councils, that Canada Post is seeking a closure.
The Canadian Union of Postal Workers regards this as a victory and we would like everyone to
know that their joint and singular efforts are helping build the momentum we need to stop
closures. In addition to the resolutions passed, over 130,000 signatures on petitions were
presented in the House of Commons to maintain the Quebec City sorting plant. Thousands of
additional signatures on petitions will soon be presented in the House asking the government to
maintain, expand and improve its network of public post offices. But we still have a lot of work
to do to secure the future of post offices and the plant in Quebec City.
An important step in this work is to let the new government know what the post office means to
your community, the businesses that operate there and the people who live there.
We therefore encourage you to write to the new minister responsible, Lawrence Cannon, stating
your support for public post offices and your opposition to closures. You might wish to remind
the minister that his colleague, JoseeVemer, member of Parliament for Louis-St-Laurent, took a
strong stand against the Quebec City plant closure before and during the election, promising to
review the decision if her party assumed power. Her promise was backed in the House of
Commons by then Conservative postal critic, Brian Pallister. Mr. Pallister went so far as to say
that the Conservative Party "opposes the decision."
,. --.-.-.
We believe major decisions like the Quebec City plant closure and other changes to parts of the
public postal network need to be transparent and democratic. That is why we must continue our
efforts to obtain from the Government of Canada and Canada Post their plans for our public post
office. That is why we must continue to press for a decision-making process that is open,
accountable and inclusive of communities, their elected representatives and postal workers.
Simply put, we all have a right to know what is being proposed and a right to be part of a fair,
consultative process.
We therefore request that your municipality once again make its voice heard on this important
subject. Enclosed please find a sample letter to Lawrence Cannon, Minister Responsible for
Transport, Infrastructure and Communities (place de Ville, Tower C, 29th Floor, 330 Sparks,
Ottawa, Ontario, KIA ON5) calling for a stop to plans to close postal facilities and outlining the
necessity of transparent and democratic procedures, including the release of all strategic planning
documents relating to the corporation's national network review and its overall plans for Canada
Post. We would ask that you copy this letter to Moya Greene, President of Canada Post (Canada
Post Corporation, 2701 Riverside Drive, Ottawa, Ontario KIA OBI) and the office of the
Canadian Union of Postal Workers (377 Bank Street, Ottawa, Ontario, K.2P I Y3).
Please contact bkIassen@cupw-sttp.org if you would like an electronic version of the letter to
Minister Cannon.
CUPW will do its part to ensure that we get the information we need to defend public postal
service before it is too late. If our requests for information and input from Canada Post go
unanswered, we will be taking additional measures to protect the integrity of our public postal
system.
Please contact our national office for any further information you require.
Yours truly,
W~ 6A.U5J~
Deborah Bourque
National President
Canadian Union of Postal Workers
Enc!.
c.c.: National Executive Board
Regional Executive Committees
National Union Representatives
Regional Union Representatives
Specialists
DBlbk cope 22S
~
Lawrence Cannon
Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities
Place de ViJle, Tower C, 29th Floor
330 Sparks
Ottawa, Ontario
KIA ON5
Dear Mr. Cannon:
The municipal council of writes to express concern
at the lack of clarity surrounding the future of our public postal service.
As a Crown corporation, Canada Post is owned and operated for the benefit of the public,
providing an equitable service, regardless of where people live. lbis municipality is
aware of the vital role played by our public postal service in the economic and social
well-being of communities, large and small.
We therefore believe that businesses, individuals and municipalities have a right to know
what plans Canada Post has for its national network. We also think that a full and
inclusive consultation process should occur before plans are finalized or any restructuring
changes made.
We note that Canada Post did not apply such an approach to the decision to close the
Quebec City sorting plant. Over 800 municipalities have passed resolutions calling for a
stop to this closure and others. We wish to remind you that the Conservative Party
promised in the autumn of 2005 to review the Quebec City plant decision if it formed the
next government. We trust this promise will be kept.
.../2
.~ --..
- 2-
In order to avoid further situations such as has occurred at the Quebec City plant and to
open up the process in a democratic way, we request that, as the Minister responsible for
Canada Post, you instruct Canada Post President Moya Greene to make public:
. all strategic planning documents relating to the corporation's long tenn vision and
plans for our public post office;
. all documents relating to the review of the national postal network (as announced
by Canada Post on July 14,2005);
. any other strategic planning documents that consider changes to our public postal
service, including post offices, posta! facilities and jobs.
We further request that, as Minister responsible for Canada Post, you instruct the Crown
corporation to continue the moratorium on rural post office closures (approximately 50
post offices have been closed since 200 I), and extend this moratorium to urban post
offices and plants.
We would also like you to put an immediate halt to plans to close the plant in Quebec
City. As well, we would like the corporation to consult with elected officials, including
municipalities, the public, posta! unions and other major stakeholders to develop a
unifonn and democratic process for making changes to our public postal network.
We look forward to receiving infonnation on Canada Post's plans and participating in a
consultative process. This kind of information and input is vital if our public postal
service is to meet the needs of communities in the twenty-first century.
Yours truly,
c.c. Moya Greene, President, Canada Post Corporation
Deborah Bourque, National President, Canadian Union of Postal Workers
Ibk cope 225
.. .-
&~ NOVA HOUSE
NOVA '!3f HOUSE CAPITAL CAMPAIGN
CAMPAIGN
FEBRUARY 2006 CAMPAIGN NEWSLETTER
MESSAGE FROM THE NOVA HOUSE CAPITAL CAMPAIGN CHAIR
I am extremely pleased to see the construction under- I would be happy to meet -
way at our new Nova House site. Our dream of anew, with you to discuss your
safe shelter for women and children in Niagn faDs is opportunity to help furnish
quickly becoming a reality. When I was approached in Nova House. Any donation
2003 to lead the Capital Campaign towards its goal of big or small will be used to
1.2 million, I never imagined that the process would make Nova HotIse a safe .
be so rewarding. The entire Capital Campaign Team place where hundreds of
should be proud of their accomplishments; however, women an,d children will seek refuge from their abu-
none of these accomplishments would have been sive partners. I have traveled to many places around
possible without the generosity of each and every the W9rld and can speak first hand on how fortunate
donor.To all ofyou,THANKYOU! the wolhen and children are in Niagara to have a safe
place ~theycan get counselling and advocacy.
As the building phase continues, we are now visualiz-
ing the furniture and decorating aspect. To those who I will ke.yOu informed on the status ofthe project
have not given to this worthy project, and to those and I hope you will cOntact me or the Development
who can do more, please consider making monetary Office to learn morelbout how you can help.
gifts to help us furnish this safe haven. From beds,
linens, tables, and chairs-- we will need it all. Remem- Dr. June Mergl, Nova House Capital Campaign Chair
ber, this shelter will not only provide safety to women JMergl@aol.com
and children, but will provide the basic necessities:
security, food, shelter, clothes, books and toys.
@ ~4if' .
{J WOMEN'SP~O~~~~ ~~~
" TO EMPOWER ABUSED WOMEN & THEIR'"
~, ' BY PROVIDING SAFE SHELTER & INTERVENilotf~"
".
.. II
Executive Director's Report Shelter Construction Signals
The long held dream of a new shelter is becoming a Hope for Victims of Violence
reality!
As many of you will recall,ApriI21,2005 marked the
successful wrap up of our 1.2 million dollar capital
campaign with a victory celebration being hosted ~y the
Niagara Parks Commission at Edgewater's overlooking NIAGARA FALLS, AUGUST 17, 2005 - Women and their
Niagara Falls. children who are fleeing family violence will soon have a
These dollars coupled with a 2.2 million dollar commit- brand new shelter to seek safety and assistance. The
foundation was poured this week marking the start of
ment from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation's construction of Nova House.
Shelter Enhancement Program allowed us to break
ground. The construction of o~r .new ~ova Hous~ . Operating under the umbrella of the Women's Place of
shelter is underway and we anticipate Its completion In South Niagara Inc., the shelter will offer 20 emergency
September 2006. beds for women and their children. The facility was
The new shelter will enable us to double our capacity made possible with funding of 2.2 million from Canada
Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)'s Shelter
and provide appropriate service delivery space and Enhancement Program (SEP).
amenities. In turn we believe that we will be able to
improve the quality of the programs and services we "The start of construction on this new shelter to create
provide, as well as the quality of work-life for our staff. Nova House is so vitally important to ensuring women
In this day and age, Information Technology plays such a and their children have access to safe housing and the
support they need to help them succeed: said Walt
large part in our society's day-to-day communications. Lastewka, Member of Parliament for St. Catha rines, on
With this in mind, we are pleased to announce that we behalf of the Honourable Joe Fontana, Minister of Labour
received approval for $50,000 from the Ontario Trillium and Housing. "This project is a visible sign of the Govern-
Foundation. These monies will permit us to purchase ment of Canada's ongoing commitment to supporting
computer hardware and software for the new shelt~r. those who are most in need in Niagara Falls and the
Technology will enable us to improve our communlca- surrounding area."
tions internally as well as externally with our community
partners, strategic alliances, donors, volunteers and more CMHC's Shelter Enhancement Program offers financial
importantly with those we provide services and assistance for the repair, rehabilitation and improvement
supports too. of existing shelters for women and their children, youth
We anticipate the months ahead will encompass a "bee and men who are victims of family violence. Funding is
also available for the acquisition or construction of new
hive of activity" as we begin to plan and take care of all shelters and second stage housing.
the details that will accompany our move, settling in and
grand opening of our new shelter. CMHC is Canada's national housing agency with a man-
Thank you for sharing your love and kindness through date to help Canadians gain access to safe, quality and
affordable housing. CMHC supports the Canadian hous-
your financial support. Please accept my heartfelt thanks ing industry and improves the living conditions of Cana-
and appreciation for being a part of making the dream dians through its activities in mortgage loan insurance
of a new shelter come to fruition. Together we are and securitization, assisted housing, research and infor-
making a difference! mation transfer and the promotion of Canadian housing
exports.
Ruthann Brown,
Executive Director, Women's Place of South Niagara Inc.
TH" ONTARIO *' LA FONDATION
TRILLIUM - TRILLIUM
FOUNDATION \ D. L'ONTARIO
Construction Project Update
The shelter construction is underway. -
'. ..
The foundation was finished in the
early part of September. Since then all
. . .
the city services have been installed . .
l16li6' '.
(sewer, gas, water, and hydro). The ..
..........
plumbing has been installed under .1IIlI'--...... .:_.','
the floor and the basement floor and
part of the main concrete floor has been poured.
Structural steel has been erected, block walls have
been put up in the basement, the elevator shaft has
been built and the basement stairs have been put in.
Due to Engineering details and design on the steel
joists and stud walls there were some minor delays,
however they have now been worked out and the first
floor metal joists and metal deck were installed before
Christmas. With the nice weather we have had in
January, the second floor steel joists, metal deck and
main walls are going up quite rapidly.
The roof trusses and roofing will begin in March and
Nova House Campaign the construction will proceed from there. I look
forward to seeing the finished product!
Cabinet & Volunteers Bill Muir,
Campaign Chair Volunteer Project Manager at New Nova House Site
Dr. June Mergl Cabinet
George Bailey
Campaign Honorary Chairs Margaret Kleinsmith
Dr. Robin Williams Joe Mergl
Donna Moody, NRP Franca Moss
Bob Muir
Campaign Advisor BJ Romans
Ann-Louise Branscombe Tom Snodgrass
Volunteers Jim Diodati
Alf Rampado Martha Cruikshank
Andrea MacDonald Ferguson MaryTibollo
Bill Muir Maxine Gaylor
Bill Smeaton MayorTed Saki
Brian Pellow Nancy McDonald
Bunny Bremner Norma Khouri
Colleen Hardie Paul Fell
David Thorpe Paul Jones
Dawn Breault Richard Gark
Dawn LaPlante Robin Tallon
Dino Fazio Sandy McDermott
Doug Fowler Sylvia Roach CHAPMAN III
Dr. Glyn Thomas Tanya Hvilivitzky MURRAY
Gary Niven Tina Mangiacasale ASSOCIATES
Jennifer Pearson Tom Kays
,. il
NOVA HOUSE HAD TO REDIREcr 84 WOMEN &. CHILDREN IN
2004/2005 DUETOll-IE CON11NUED LACK OF SPACE AT NOVA
HOUSE. WITH YOUR HELPll-IE NEW SHELTER WILL BE ABLE TO
DOUBLEll-IE CAPACITY AND SERVICES PROVIDED TO ll-IE
MANY ABUSED WOMEN &. CHILDREN ll-IAT SEEK SAFE REFUGE
AT NOVA HOUSE IN NIAGARA FALLS. WE ALL CAN HELPI
,r.,. . ~ Nova House Contact Infonnation
&~f www...o.,_~-....gfncMt~
Nova House, Niagara Falls
CRISIS LINE: (90S) 3S6-S800
Nova House Capital Campaign
Fundraising Department
PO Box 22025
Niagara Falls, ON L2J 2K8
Phone: (905) 353-0361
Fax: (905) 353-9647
womensplace@bellnet.ca
Please return to:
P.O. BOX 22025,
Niagara Falls, ON L2J 2K8
0$2000 0 $1000 0 $750 0 $500 0 $200
o Other
Payment method (check one):
o Cheque/Money Order Boald of DlrecIDrS 2005/2006
o Pre-Authorized Payment Plan is available
through automatic withdrawal. Please contact Bob Muir, President
the development office for more information. Judith Knight, Vice-President
o VISA o MASTERCARD Lori Taylor, Director
Card No. Expiry Dam Cathie Green, Treasurer
Debbie Beaulieu, Director
Slg....... Traci Bussi, Director
Kindly mail my tax receipt to: Paul Jones, Director
.."'" Diane Marcoux, Secretary
Nancy McDonald, Director
AdcInI!!;5 Fred Nettle, Director
Diane Sanderson, Director
Registered Charity No. 131135717RROOOl Nancy Shea-Nicol, Director
NOVA "HOUSE C9J Tom Snodgrass, Director
Aggie Tarnoy, Director
A WOMEN'S PlACE Of SOUTH NIAGARA IN(. ~~~~~!~~.~!~~
CAMPAICN SHELTER FOR ABUSED WOMEN AND otI.DAEN
THA~K YOU fOR lOUR G-\fROSIT\