2007/09/28 - ProvincialCouncil Information
*for period ended September 28, 2007*
*Provincial*
1. Provincial Election/ Candidate Questions
2. AMO Members Report
3. Social Housing
4. Drug Benefit
5. Accessibility
6. Poverty & Tax Burden
7. Public Health Grant
8. Energy
9. Communities in Bloom
10. Community Workplace Health & Safety Charter
11. Ontario Southwest Municipal Conference
12. Carolinian Canada Forum
~~
Niagara,Falls
September 18, 2007
{Candidate}
Campaign Headquarters
{Address}
Niagara Falls ON{Postal Code}
Dear {Candidate}
Re: Candidate Questionnaire
Niagara Falls City Council has a keen interest in the upcoming Provincial election. As a result,
the Council requested that a questionnaire be sent to all candidates regarding important issues,
especially those directly affecting municipalities.
Some of the questions have already appeared in various media sources (the Toronto .Star, for
example) and are standard on the campaign trail. Other questions have been devised as a result
of matters that have been raised at City Council.
City Council respectfully requests that you take some time to complete the questionnaire. Feel
free to e-mail your responses, if easier, to the undersigned.
Good luck on the campaign trail.
Sincerely,
~~~
Dean orfida
City Clerk
c. His Worship Mayor Ted Salci & Members of Niagara Falls City Council
Working Together to Serve Our Community
', Corporate Services Department
Clerks
Ext 4271 Fax 905-356-9083
diorfida@niagarafalls.ca
",'~
Questions for Candidates _ 2
1. Casino Niagara has operated under a number of short term leases between the property
owner and Ontario Lottery & Gaming (OLG). What is your position on two casinos in
Niagara Falls and what would you do to insure the continued viability of casinos in
Niagara Falls?
2. What would your party do to ease the financial burden on cities across the province?
3. What would your party do to protect manufacturing jobs and encourage development of
leading-edge industries?
4. Downtown revitalization has been on the agenda locally for the last couple of years.
What programs or tools would your government provide to assist municipal revitalization
efforts?
5. What would your party do to improve access to family doctors and key medical
procedures? And where do you stand on more private involvement in the public health
care system?
6. Niagara Falls City Council passed a resolution earlier in the year calling upon the
province to extend coverage of Visudyne treatment to those with minimally classic and
occult wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD). What would your party do to make
this coverage a reality?
7. What would your party do to improve air and water quality in the province?
8. Various neighbourhoods in the city have had difficulties with rodents and other vermin.
As a result, the Council petitioned the Province to provide more tools for municipalities
to deal with such problems. What would your party propose?
9. What would your party do to ensure our publicly funded schools can offer quality
education to all children in Ontario? Do you favour extending public funding to all faith-
based schools?
10. How would you balance the interests of your local constituents with the interests of the
party you serve? If those interests come into conflict, how will you reconcile them?
e
Association of Municipalities of Ontario
MEMBER C4MMUNICAT1t~N
200 University Ave, Suite 801
Toronto, ON M5H 3C6
Tel.: (416) 971-9856 ~ Fax: (416) 971-6191
E-mail: amo@amo.on.ca
ALERT N°: 07/050
7"o tBae atter~tiort of the Clerk ara~ Cot~rtc~/ FQR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
September 20`h, 2007 Laurel McCosham, Policy Advisor
(416) 971-9856 ext 315
Key Campaign Promises 2007
Issue:
AMO has prepared an overview of municipal issues contained in party platforms, which is now
available online.
Background:
AMO has launched a special elections section on its website, including an overview of official
party platforms as they relate to municipal government. Based on key interests and concerns of
the municipal sector, this synopsis will provide a breakdown of party commitments as they are
reflected in official campaign materials. Important links and speeches touching on municipal
issues will also be available.
AMO will continue to monitor the respective campaigns to identify any new or additional
information as campaigns continue to unfold. Members are encouraged to regularly revisit this
site to obtain up-to-date information on the election.
Action:
For your information.
This information is available in the Policy Issues section of the AMO website at www.amo.an.ca.
p Association of
1-1 Munici alitiesafOntaria
Message from the ROMA Board
~ ~ 4
I• .:. Ontario Election 2007
'~ Promoting a Rural Agenda
September 72, 2007: There are a great many challenges and opportunities that rural
municipalities have in common with other communities in Ontario. Like other municipal
governments in Ontario, rural municipalities are struggling under the unsustainable provincial-
municipal fiscal arrangements established by previous provincial governments, and the lack of
stable, predictable provincial funding for Ontario's deteriorating road and bridge infrastructure.
There are also challenges that are unique to rural communities or that impact rural communities
in a significant way. These include economic development challenges, agricultural regulation and
the download of the provincial Farm Tax Rebate program to rural municipalities in 1998.
The Board of Directors of ROMA has developed a set of questions for all candidates in the 2007
Provincial Election.
1. What will your party do to ensure that Ontario's municipal road and bridge system is safe and
sustainable and meets existing and growing needs of rural communities, industry and
agriculture?
2. How will your party, if elected, support economic development in Ontario's rural communities?
3. The previous government downloaded the former Farm Tax Rebate and the Managed Forest
Tax Incentive Program to municipal property tax payers. These downloaded provincial
programs cost rural municipalities more than $200 million a year. If elected, will your party
ensure that municipalities are fully compensated for the costs of these provincial programs?
4. Property tax payers in rural Ontario are required to subsidize provincial health and social
services programs downloaded by previous governments. Property tax payers in other parts
of rural Canada do not face the same disadvantage. If elected, what will your partly do to
reduce the Provincial Government's reliance on property taxes to fund program like welfare,
long-term care and public health?
The Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) is the rural arm of the Association of
Municipalities of Ontario (AMO). The association is an integral part of AMO and a number of its
Executive Members serve on the AMO Board of Directors.
Action: Municipal elected officials from Ontario's rural municipalities are encouraged to attend all
candidate meetings and to express the priorities of Ontario's rural communities.
For more information contact: Brian Rosborough, AMO Director of Policy, 416-971-9856, ext. 318,
e-mail: brosborough a~amo.on.ca
200 University Ave, Suite 801Toronto, ON M5H 3C6 Tel.: (416) 971-9856 ~ Fax: (416) 971-6191 ~ E-mail: amo@amo.on.ca
(9/18/2007) Dean lorfida - 070828a1t August Board Outcomes.pdf Page 1
® 200 University Ave, Suite 801
Toronto, ON tv15H 3C6
Tel.: (416) 971-9856 Fax: (416) 971-6191
AssociationofMunicipalitiesofOntario E-mail: amo@amo.on.ca
MEMBER CC~MMI![VICA1'ION ALERTN°:07/044
7o the attention of the Clerk and Council FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
August 28, 2007 Laurel tvlcCosham, AMO Policy Advisor
(416) 971-9856 ext 315
AMO Report to Members on August 2007 Board Meeting
To keep members informed, AMO continues to provide updates on important issues considered at
regular AMO Board of Directors' meetings. Highlights of the August 2007 Board meeting follow:
E AMO Proposed Changes to Waste Diversion Acf
The Board approved the AMO /AMRC Discussion Paper and its recommended changes to
the Waste Diversion Act. The paper follows the Five-Year Review of the Act. Jennifer
Jackson, Legal Counsel with the City of Otto wa and a member of the AMO Waste Task
Force outlined the paper's key recommendations which were subsequently approved by
the Board. The paper will now be transmitted to the Ministry of the Environment for
consideration.
Contact: Milena Avramovic,Senior PolicyAdvisor,email: milena@amo.on.ca; ext: 342
~ WDO Committee Appointments
The Board approved two new appointments to the WDO Public Affairs Committee (PAC)
and the WDO Generally Acceptable Principles Committee (GAP). Kim Kitagawa from
Waterloo Region will sitas an AMO member on PAC while Brad Whitelaw from Niagara
Region will sit on GAP.
Contact: Milena Avramovic,Senior Policy Advisor,email: milena@amo.on.ca; ext: 342
E AMO Response to the Proposed Transportation Standard
The Board considered AMO's response to the proposed Transportation Standard under the
Accessibility of Ontarians with Disability Act (AODA), 2005. Accessibility standards include
both sector-specific standards as well as common standards which will apply to all sectors
of the economy. A key concern that was highlighted was the need for greater
harmonization between each standard as well as among the different sectors as well as the
lack of committed, sustainable funding from the province. It is anticipated that some smaller
jurisdictions may be forced to suspend transit operations. It was noted that a number of
Standards are yet to be developed and it is expected that the municipal fiscal impact of
implementing the AODA will be prohibitive. Staff emphasized the importance of individual
municipalities also responding to the proposed Transportation Standard emphasizing the
anticipated impact of the proposed Standard. The Board approved the AMO response and
directed staff to communicate the recommendati ons and key considerations to the Ministry.
Contact: Petra Wolfbeiss, Senior PolicyAdvisor, email: pwolfbeiss@amo.on.ca; ext: 329
Association of ~~
1-2 Municipalities of Ontario „
(9/18/2007) Dean lorfida - 070828a1t August Board Outcomes.pdf Page 2
Member Communication
E Proposed Terms of Reference: AMO Social Policy Task Force
The Board approved the amalgamation ofAMO's Community & Social Services Task Force
and AMO's Housing and Homelessness Task Force into the AMO Social Policy Task
Force. It was agreed that a single, integrated unit would facilitate a more comprehensive
understanding of Provincial program and policy decisions. The Board received the Terms of
Reference for the new Task Force and directed staff to assemble membership.
Contact: Petra Wolfbeiss, Senior PolicyAdvisor, email: pwolfbeiss@amo.on.ca; ext: 329
E Presumptive Legislation for Volunteer Firefighter Cancer Claims
The Board considered AMO's response to the Ministry of Labour's request for input
regarding the application of presumptive legislation to volunteer and part-time firefighters
and fire investigators who contract certain cancers or suffer cardiac injury. The Ministry will
shortly be making regulations extending this legislation to these fire service employees.
AMO was asked to comment on the circumstances, conditions and restrictions that should
determine its application.
It was broadly recognized that the contribution of volunteer and part-time firefighters could
not be regarded differently than that of full-time fire service employees. AMO's Fire
Services Task Force also recommended a definition of`fire investigator' be articulated in
the regulation. The Task Force also underlined issues surrounding years of service in
different capacities and recommended that the Province mandate baseline health checks
and disclosure of outside activities for all fire service employees.
The Board approved the recommendations made by AMO's Fire Services Task Force and
directed staff to transmit the AMO response to MOL.
Contact: Laurel McCosham, PolicyAdvisor, email:lmccosham@amo.on.ca; ext: 315
E Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Legislation
The Board endorsed in principle a resolution from the City of Ottawa asking the Province to
adopt Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods legislation. Designed to combat entrenched
drug and prostitution activities through the use of civil remedies, the legislation is designed
to support local public safety. Staff was directed to communicate with the Premier and the
Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services about the possible creation of
such legislation in Ontario.
Contact: Laurel McCosham, PolicyAdvisor, email:lmccosham@amo.on.ca; ext: 315
E Criminal Code Provisions for Graffiti-Related Offences
The Board expressed support for a resoluti on from the City of Windsor requesting Criminal
Code provisions for graffiti-related vandalism. The resolution points to the need for more
explicit fines and punishments forthis offence under Canada's Criminal Code .Staff was
directed to transmit the resolution and AMO's expression of support to the Minister of
Justice and the Attorney General of Canada.
Contact: Laurel McCosham, PolicyAdvisor, email:lmccosham@amo.on.ca; ext: 315
This information is available in the Policy Issues section of the AMO website at www,amo.on.ca.
p Association of ~~,/~
2-2 iNunici alRies of Ontario `"'j
This facsimile is provided by CNW Group. To unsubscribe, please call 416-863-2101 or
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Please Deliver To / SVP REMETTRE A Clerk ~ •k~ •~' ~•.- •=
~,
Ministry of Municipal Affairs Ministers des Affalres munit;ipales
and Hou$itlg et du Logement
Office Of tf18 deputy MInI~tQr eureau du $ous-minls[re
1 i`T" Flggr 176 stage
777 Bay'Street 777, rue f38y
Toronto ON M5G 285 taranta ON M5G 2E9
Tel: (416) 595-7100 t~l~ (41 B) 585.7100
Fax: (418) 5&5.7211 t~l6capieur: (416) 586-7211
September 5, 2007
Ta all Clerks and +GAUs:
RE: IVCunicioal Councillor's Guide
QQ Ontario.
07-2824
'T`ide Ontario government's vision far buildiz>g stronger catrununities includes pravidii~g local
governments with the tools and the decisionytnalcing powers they need to make choices and take
actions in the best interests of Cheir cornrnunities. ~ '
7'he Municipal Statute Law ~mendtn~nt Act, 2006 significantly amended the ~Itinioi,pal Act, 2001 ,
to provide many new tools and additional decision-making powers to municipal io'iu'icils. The -
changes are far reaching and the Ivliztistry of Municipal Affairs and Housing has produced a - , ~ ,
Municipal Councillor's Cxuide to assist municipal elected officials izx familiarizing themseXves
witk~ the new tools at their disposal . , ~. .
The Cruide is available oaa tkte ministry's website, in HTML or PD)» format, under `Resources for '
Municipalities" on the ministry home page at vvww.mah.gov.on.ca. ~ ,
I ask you #a alert the members of your council to the availability of this guide and to encourage ~ ',
them; to make use of this informative product. ~ ~: ' ,
I wish you well in your activities and l am confident your ;municipality v~rill continue to ~build,on ~ ' - ;
its many successes as we continue to support strong and prosperous communities ix>:`a'strong ~ .
Ontario. .
Yours trtaly,
e
Deputy Minister ~ , ' -
(9/18/2007) Dean lorfida - 070828fyi AMO Bricks and Mortar Housing Paper.pdf Page 1
~®~ 200 University Ave, Suite 801
Toronto, ON MSH 3C6
Tel.: (416) 971-9856 i Fax: (416) 971-6191
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INIE~YI~GR ~,+®~INIUIV'ti//-11 ~®~ FYI N°: 07/017
Ta the attention of the Clerk and Council FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
August 28, 2007 Petra Wdfbeiss , AMO Senior Pdicy Advisor
(416) 971-9656 ext 329
AMO Releases Beyond Bricks and Mortar: Important
Considerations in the Future of Social Housing in Ontario
Issue:
At the 108th Annual Conference in Ottawa, AMO continued to advocate for a housing system
that works for all through the release of Beyond Bricks and Mortar: Important Considerations
in the Future of Social Housing in Ontario .
Background:
In March 2007, the AMO Board ofDirectors advocated for a new framework for housing
policy and program development in Ontario with the release of AMO's Princip/es and
Strategic Considerations for Social Housing in Ontario which emphasized the need for
commitment from all orders of Government to develop a system that supports locally driven
solutions and a fiscal and regulatory framework that allows municipalities to act innovatively
in responding to local issues.
Beyond Bricks and Mortar builds on the previous paper and emphasizes the importance of
intergovernmenta I and stakeholder cooperat ion and the need for sustained funding in
resolving Ontario's social housing crisis. This paper studies the steps that need to be taken in
order to create asocial housing system that works for all Ontarians. Policy directions and
outcomes of national, state, and local government s in six jurisdictions were reviewed. By
learning from the international experience, Ontario can determine whether the successful
social housing policies implemented elsewh ere might also succeed in Ontario.
AMO's motivation in advocating for a sustai noble social housing system is simple; this
important community service is under stress and facing significant challenges that must be
addressed. Beyond Bricks and Mortar raises important consideratio ns including whether it is
more important to become better managers of social housing, or whether it is essential to
give municipalities the tools to better develop and manage community renewal, poverty
reduction and economic progress.
This information is available in the Policy Issues section of the AMO website at www.amo.on.ca.
p Association of
1.1 Munici alines of Ontario
(9/18/2007) Dean lorfida - 070829a1t Drug benefit and ODSP.pdf Page 1
200 University Ave, Suite 801
~ ~ Toronto, ON M5H 3C6
Tel.: (416) 971-9856 ~ Fax: (416) 971-6191
A~sAsoclatppio~~naf Mun(cipalitie~s+o/f•O~ntario ~~++. ~° E-mail: amo@amo.on.ca
1YIEtY1~ER C~MIYI~IV~1r~ I ~®~ At<ERTN°: 07/045
To the attention of the Clerk and Council FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
AUgUSt 29, 2007 Brian Rosborough, AMO Director of Policy
(416) 971-9856 ext 318
Province Amends Regulations to Implement $935 million
Ontario Drug Benefit and ODSP Upload
Issue: Amendments have been made to regulations under the Ontario Works Actand
Ontario Disability Support Program (OD SP) Act to implement the upload ofOntario
Drug Benefit costs associated with both programs effective January 1, 2008, and the
phased implementation of the upload ofODSP administration and benefits by 2011.
Background:
The planned upload of$935 million in Ontario Drug Benefit and OD SP costs announced by the
Premier at the 2007 AMO Conference is now law. The amendments to regulations for the
Ontario Works Act and the OD SPActare linked to this Alert.
According to the regulations:
• municipalities will no longer be required to cost share Drug Benefits for people on social
assistance (Ontario Works and OD SP) effective January 1, 2008;
• municipalities will no longer be required to cost share (currently 50%) the cost of
administering the provincially delivered ODSP program effective January 1, 2009;
• municipal cost sharing for ODSP benefits (financial assistance) will be reduced from 20% to
10% effective January 1,2010; and
• Municipal cost sharing forODSP benefits will be eliminated entirely on January 1,2011.
AMO considers this announcement and the amendments to regulations to be important
milestones in the ongoing Provincial-Municipal Fiscal and Service Delivery Review. The
Review is to result in a consensus-based report on further adjustments to the fiscal framework
in February 2008. The report will include recommendations related to funding and service
delivery, including the Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund (OMPF), as part of an overall
provincial-municipal fiscal framework.
In the meantime, the Province has signalled that OMPF funding will not be reduced in 2008. In
his address to AMO conference delegates, Municipal Affairs and Housing Minister John
Gerretsen said that OMPF funding levels for 2008 would not be reduced as a result of the
uploading ofODB costs.
This information is available in the Policy Issues section of the AMO website at www.amo.on.ca.
p Association of ~~
1-1 Munici alines of Ontario
(9/18/2007) Dean lorfida - 070829a1t-2 disabilities act.pdf Page 1
® ~ _ 200 University Ave, Suite 801
Toronto, ON M5H 3C6
Tel.: (416) 971-9856 I Fax: (416) 971-6191
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To fhe affentlan of the CJerk and Cottncit FpR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
August 29, 2007 Petra Wdfbeiss, AMO Senior PdicyAdvisor
(416) 971-9856 ext 329
Call for Membership on Resource Teams
to Support Development of Standards
under the Accessibilityfor Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005
Issue: AMO is seeking volunteers interested in participating in the standard development process under
the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA). Resource teams are being
assembled to assist AMO representatives on the Built Environment, Employment and Information
and Communication Standard Development Committees.
Background: The AODA requires the establishment of two streams of standards; common and sector
specific that will apply to the private and public sector across the province in an effort to address and
remove barriers for people with disabilities. Five broad categories for standard development have been
identified: customer service, built environment, employment, information and communications and
transportation. To date, one standard, customer service, has been developed and passed into regulation
while the transportation standard is currently under public review.
Volunteers with knowledge and experience in municipal issues related to the built environment,
information and communications and employment are being sought to provide support to members
participating on the committees. Members will work wfth AMO standard development committee
participants to examine proposed components of standards as they are being developed with
consideration given to municipal fiscal capacity in achieving the principles and objectives of the AODA and
the goals of proposed standards.
The role of the resource teams will include a holistic examination of all standards as related to
harmonization and interdependency of standards across existing legislated requirements and standards.
Some considerations will include; definitions of standards, consideration of Ontario best practices in
relation to proposed standards, compliance dates, terms of terminology, definitions and presentation for all
standards balanced against the need to consider the cumulative financial impact and the municipal
capacity to implement all standards across the AODA.
While AMO continues to support the principles of the AODA and remains committed to helping build a fully
accessible Ontario, we are concerned that the current standard development process will in fact result in
local service reductions, fiscal restraints and ultimately impede achieving the principles and goals of the
AODA.
We are hopeful that a coordinated municipal approach as supported by resource teams, will help to
mitigate the impacts of unintended perverse outcomes of this important piece of legislation that to date
remains without committed, sustained provincial funding.
Action: Please contact Petra Wolfbeiss, Senior Policy Advisor, AMO at 416.971.9856 ext. 329 or
at pwolfbeissCa2amo.on.ca by September 14, 2007.
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200 University Ave, Suite 801
Toronto, ON M5H 3C6
Tel.: (416) 971-9856 ~ Fax: (416) 971-6191
E-mail: amo@amo.on.ca
ALERT ~°: 07/049
To the attention f~f the Clerk and CoaencfB FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
September 12, 2007 Laurel McCosham - AMO Policy Advisor
(416) 971-9856 ext 315
AMO Releases Advocacy Paper,
"Poverty and the Property Tax Burden in Ontario"
Issue:
At the 108t" Annual Conference in Ottawa, AMO continued to advocate for a more
sustainable fiscal arrangement with the release of its advocacy paper, entitled "Poverty and
the Property Tax Burden in Ontario."
Background:
"Poverty and the Property Tax Burden in Ontario" is a strategic advocacy paper that draws
linkages between high property taxes and poverty. Approved by AMO's Board of Directors
in June 2007, the paper was formally released at the AMO Annual Conference and is now
available online.
The paper presents poverty from a municipal perspective. It argues that people living in
poverty are impacted both directly by high property taxes as well as indirectly through
reductions in municipal "quality of life" services. Given funding obligations for provincial
health and social services, municipalities have not had adequate resources to deliver
important local services, many of which help reduce barriers and foster socio-economic
participation. The problem is often compounded because municipalities may have no other
choice than to increase property taxes to meet increasing expenditure requirements. For
many local residents, these taxes represent a huge financial burden that perpetuates the
cycle of poverty.
AMO has long argued that municipalities should not have to fund provincial health and
social services on the property tax base. This paper represents an extension of this
argument by illustrating some of the human consequences of an unsustainable provincial-
municipal fiscal arrangement. Pointing out that property tax does not provide sufficient
revenue to support provincial health and social services, the paper contends that structural
change is needed to carve out a more workable arrangement.
This information is available in the Policy Issues section of the AMO website at www.amo.on.ca.
p Association of
1-1 Munici alities of Ontario
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Association of Municipalities of Ontario
i>rI~I'rI~~R CVINIIrI~~~CA~'~,!
To the attenfiian of the Clerk and Council
August 31, 2007
200 University Ave, Suite 801
Toronto, ON M5H 3C6
Tel.: (416) 971-9856 ~ Fax: (416) 971-6191
E-mail: amo@amo.on.ca
Fl'~ Pd®: 07/018
FOR MgRE INFgRMAT1gN CgNTACT:
Petra Wolfbeiss , AMO Senior Policy Advisor
(416) 971-9856 ext 329
Public Health Grant Allocations and
Long Term Care Staffing & Care Standards Review Announced
Issue:
The Ministry of Health and Long Term Care will be providing fora 5% funding growth for
mandatory public health programs.
The Ministry is also undertaking a public consultation on staffing and care standards in Long
Term Care facilities to inform regulation development.
Background:
Public Health Funding: The Ministry of Health and Long Term Care will be limiting public
health funding grant allocations to 5% growth on 2006 allocation for mandatory public health
programs. Other public health programs such as infectious disease control and childhood
vaccines remain fully funded by the province.
The Government has moved towards the committed 75% - 25% provincial-municipal cost
sharing of public health bringing the total provincial spending to approximately $416 million
annually. Despite this important shift, many health units require annual funding increases that
well exceed the 5% funding cap.
Long-Term Care: Former Saint Elizabeth Health Care President and CEO, Shirlee Sharkey
has been named by the Ministry to conduct a review of long term care staffing and care
standards. The Long Term Care Homes Act, 2007, received Royal Assent in June 2007.
AMO had expressed concern with the potential of increased administrative and staffing
requirements under the new legislation without increased funding. We are hopeful that the
consultation with key stakeholders will provide a reasonable and appropriate regulatory
approach that is supported by provincial funding.
Action: AMO will continue to monitor developments in both programs. Both Public Health
and Municipal Homes for the Aged are part of the Provincial Municipal Fiscal and Service
Delivery Review currently underway.
This information is available in the Policy Issues section of the AMO website at www.amo.on.ca.
p Association of ~~
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MEIVIBEF~ CQIVI1~IIl1NICATI~N
200 University Ave, Suite 801
Toronto, ON M5H 3C6
Tel.: (416) 971-9856 ~ Fax: (416) 971-6191
E-mail: amo@amo.on.ca
FYI N°: 07/019
To the a##en#ion of the Clerk and Council FOR MARE iNFORt~ArioN coNTACT:
September 25, 2007 Scott Vokey, LAS Energy Services
Coordinator, (416) 971-9856 ext 357
Municipal Energy Services Information Request
Issue:
AMO subsidiary, Local Authority Services, has authorized Power Application Group
Incorporated to contact member municipalities to obtain data necessary to produce a report
that summarizes the sector's load profile and conservation potential. This report forms part of
the efforts the AMO and the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) are taking to
help municipalities transition from paying the Regulated Price Plan (RPP) to the hourly
electricity price this spring.
Background:
Local Authority Services recently created an Energy Services Division to help develop a suite
of energy conservation programs for member municipalities and to also advocate for
provincial programs that benefit the municipal sector.
The IESO is anot-for-profit entity established by the government of Ontario to manage the
province's power system and wholesale electricity market. As part of its Customer Education
program, the IESO is working with municipalities to help them to manage their bottom line by
providing information about how Ontario's electricity market works, tips on how to save
money on electricity bills and resources to help make the most of energy investments.
LAS's Energy Services Division is working with the IESO to generate a complete picture of
the municipal sector's current energy consumption and energy conservation potential in order
to accomplish both goals. Power Application Group has been retained by the IESO to collect
the data and undertake the analysis necessary to produce the Taking the Next Steps report
because of their extensive expertise in the energy management field as well as their
experience with the college sector.
LAS is very pleased to work with the IESO on this study as well as a number of other
initiatives to help promote awareness of the upcoming end of the RPP and to drive energy
conservation in the municipal sector.
Assooiation of ~~~
1.2 Municipalities of Ontario
A definition of the current state of energy consumption will establish the municipal
sector's segment size in terms of megawatts consumed, number of accounts,
meters by type, and other data necessary to complete a full load profile. This load
profile will act as a base case or benchmark foundation to map out further details
for the electricity marketplace. Amore complete overview of the municipal sector's
conservation potential will help AMO/LAS develop programs in partnership with
provincial and federal agencies for the benefit of all parties involved.
Staff from Power Application Group will also be interviewing municipal staff at the upcoming
Energy Management Workshops. These two new Energy workshops, presented in six
different locations in Fall 2007-Winter 2008, are geared to provide municipal staff and elected
officials with a foundation for municipal energy management. This will include resources and
successful case studies, to help your municipality create and implement successful energy
projects and strategies.
Click on the following links to learn more about these workshops:
Workshop #1 -Energy 101: Opportunities & Insights
http://www.amo.on.ca/AM/Template.cfm?Section=AboutUs&TEMPLATE=/CM/ContentDispla
y,cfm&CONTENTID=148692
Workshop #2 -Municipal Energy Management: How to Make it Work for You
http://www.amo.on.ca/AM/Template.cfm?Section=AboutUs~TEMPLATE=/CM/ContentDispla
y.cfm&CONTENTID=148693
Action:
AMO/LAS requests that municipalities contacted by Power Application Group please provide
them with the information necessary to help complete the Taking the Next Steps report.
Association of .~~
2-2 Municipalities of Ontario
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2007/08 AMO/LAS Municipal Energy Management Workshops
AMO/LAS presents two new Energy
workshops for 2007 and Early 2008 eared
to municipal staff and elected officials.
These workshops recognize the reality that
municipalities are all at different stages
of development with regard to energy
management. Each full-day workshop will
provide a foundation for muncipal energy
management including resources and successful
case studies, to help your municipality create
and implement successful energy projects and
strategies.
Attendees will leave these workshops with
the ability to employ appropriate approaches
to meet energy objectives and to develop
successful strategies and projects related to
energy savings. As a part of their registration,
participants will receive a detailed workshop
package and a reference CD with loads
of information about best practices, new
technologies, funding programs... and much
more.
Rlease notee both worlshops will be offered
corlsccutivc~l~J l~cat lleitller worltshop is a
pre-rec~c.zisitc: for the c>tllcr, ~~~ ellcol:~ragcs
participants to attend both as they wi~II cover
cliffererlt tol:~ics. IILT~ I-iL.T; :~~ D SAt%E take
bath workshol}s an<:I save ~; ~0 before taxes.
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Workshop # 1:
F'nergy 101; ~ppc~rta~nities ~ ~xisights
Explores the who, what, when, and explains
why Energy Management is important for
municipalities. Participants explore numerous
opportunities for municipalities to save energy,
time, human and financial resources. Topics to be
discussed include:
• Energy Management Overview
• Working in the existing Organizational
Culture
• Community Energy Plans
• Government & Utility Incentives
• Energy Profiles & Audits
Workshop #2:
Mr~nicipal Extergy Management:
o~~~ to Male it ~rork. fi4)r ~'c~u
Going beyond `Energy 101' -this workshop
shows how to build the best business case for
energy projects, learn about practical energy
projects and much more. Discussion topics
include:
• Municipal Success Stories
• How to Benchmark
• Retrofits & Upgrades
• Eliminating Costly Energy Waste
• Supply Options
• Capital Competition
• How to Maximize Incentives
For more information on workshop content
visit the `Events' section of
www.amo.on.ca
or contact Scott Vokey
(416 971-9856 ext. 357
svokey@amo.on.ca
Presented in conjunction with
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Po4ver to Ontario. CJn I~ernar€d.
„~„ ~ ~laturak ~te~aurces
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2007/08 AM®It_AS Energy Management Warkshaps Registratian Farm
Workshop sessions are from 8:30 am to 4 pm with registration at 8:00 am
Please type or print clearly. Use one form per registrant. Payment MUST accompany registration.
First Name Last Name
Title Municipality
Address
City Province Postal Code
Phone Fax E-mail
Location Workshop 1 Workshop 2 Attend Both Workshops
Burlington,
Hilton Garden Inn ^ Oct 22 ^ Oct 23 ^ Oct 22 & 23
Kingston, ^ Nov 15 ^ Nov 16 ^ Nov 15 & 16
Confederation Place
Thunder Bay, ^ Dec 3 ^ Dec 4 ^ Dec 3 & 4
Valhalla Inn
London,
Four Points Sheraton
^ Jan 15
^ Jan 16
^ Jan 15 & 16
North Bay,
Clarion Resort, Pinewood Park ^ Jan 22 ^ Jan 23 ^ Jan 22 & 23
Barrie, ^ Feb 18 ^ Feb 19 ^ Feb 18 & 19
Holiday Inn
Attend one workshop $275 + 6% GST ($291.50)
A#tend both w®rksh®ps! Bundle and save $50.00 before taxes
$500 + 6% GST ($530.00)
PAYMENT
Registration forms CANNOT be processed unless accompanied by proper payment.
Fax completed registration forms to (416) 971-9732
^ Cheque payable to: ^ Mastercard ^ Visa
Association of Municipalities of Ontario Card #
200 Universit
Avenue
Suite 801
y
,
Toronto, ON., M5H 3C6 Name on Card
Expiry Date
Signature
Refund Policy:
Cancellations must be made in writing and received by AM014 days prior to the the date of the selected seminar.
An administration fee of $ 50.00 + 6%GST ($53.00) will apply.
For registration inquiries please contact Anita Surujdeo at asurujdeo@amo.on.ca or (416) 971-9856 ext. 344
NEWS RELEASE
For immediate release to your local media.
September 16, 2007
25 Ontario communities honoured at
2007 Communities in Bloom -Ontario
Awards Conference
Representatives of communities across Ontario were present in Woodstock on September 14th, 2007 to
celebrate their achievements at the 14th annual Communities in Bloom -Ontario Awards & Symposium.
Each received a certificate and, where applicable, a Trillium Bloom Rating of Excellence and Special
Mention of the community's remarkable attributes or projects.
Nine communities were presented with Ontario Special Criteria Awards in:
Tidiness • Environmental Awareness • Community Involvement
Natural & Cultural Heritage Conservation • Tree/Urban Forest Management
Landscaped Areas • Floral Displays • Turf &Groundcover • Most Improved
Communities in Bloom -Ontario, the Ontario Edition of the National Canadian Organization, is anon-profit
Canadian organization committed to fostering civic pride, environmental responsibility and beautification
through community participation and the challenge of friendly competition. The program strives to improve
the tidiness, appearance and visual appeal of Canada's neighbourhoods, parks, open spaces and streets
through the imaginative use of flowers, plants and trees. A focus on environmental awareness and
preservation of heritage and culture is also an integral part of its success resulting in an improved quality of
life. www.cihontario.ca
For more information, please contact:
Ms. Lee Rozon -Executive Director, Communities in Bloom -Ontario
Toll Free: 1-877-640-4005 or Email: info(a~cibontario.ca
Ontario Criteria Awards
CRITERIA A WARD
Tidiness
Environmental Awareness
Community Involvement
Natural & Cultural Heritage
Conservation
Tree/Urban Forest Management
Landscaped Areas
Floral Displays
Turf &Groundcover
SPONSOR
Trystan Site Furnishings
Horizon Utilities
Composting Council of Canada
Ontario Small Urban Municipalities
International Society of Arboriculture -
Ontario Chapter
Niagara Parks School of Horticulture
Alumni
Fernlea Flowers
All Treat Farms
RECIPIENT
Municipality of Southwest Middlesex
City of Pickering
Town of St. Marys
Township of Strathroy-Caradoc
Town of Carleton Place
City of Sarnia
City of Dryden
Township of Scugog
Most Improved Landscape Ontario Municipality of Red Lake
OVER
COMMUNITIES IN BLOOM -ONTARIO
2007 "Trillium Bloom" Ratings for Provincial Edition
Population Community
Category
1,001 - 5,000 Town of Marathon
Township of North Glengarry
Municipality of Red Lake
Village of Sundridge/Township of Strong
5,001 - 10,000 Town of Carleton Place
City of Dryden
Township Of Leeds & The Thousand Islands
Town of St. Marys
Municipality of Southwest Middlesex
10,001 - 20,000 Township of Strathroy-Caradoc
20,001 - 50,000 Town of Essex
Township of Scugog
50,001 - 100,000 City of Pickering
City of Sarnia
Bloom Rating
4 Blooms
Non-competitive
4 Blooms
4 Blooms
4 Blooms
5 Blooms
3 Blooms
4 Blooms
5 Blooms
5 Blooms
4 Blooms
5 Blooms
5 Blooms
5 Blooms
Scoring; 64% - 72.9% 3 Blooms; 73% to 81.9% - 4 Blooms; 82% or more 5 Blooms
Program Longstanding Provincial & National Participants
Community Showcase Ward of Wingham
Community Showcase Municipality of Thames Centre
Program
Community Corner
Community Corner
Community Corner
Community Corner
Community Corner
Community Corner
Community Corner
Community Corner
Community Corner
Community Corner
Community Corner
Community Corner
Participating Community/Group Project
First Unitarian Congregation of
Ottawa
Town of Bradford West
Gwillimbury
Town of Lincoln
Lynedoch Community Group
City of Hamilton
City of Hamilton
Township of Strathroy-Caradoc
Town of Wawa
Town of Wawa
Town of Wawa
City of Kingston
Town of Wasaga Beach
Meditation Garden
The Bradford West Gwillimbury
Queen Street Rose Garden
Lincoln Clean-up Day
A Host of Golden Daffodils
Annual Chrysanthemum Show
Tropical Greenhouse
Muncey Road School
The Garbologists
Wawa Goose Monument
Mr. Valley Park Trail
Garden of Joy & Gazebo
Interpretive Goose Garden
Hon. Steven W. Mahoney v.c.
Chair
President du Conseil
Mayor Ted Salci and Members of Council
The City of Niagara Falls
Box 1023, 4310 Queen St.,
Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5
Friday, September 14, 2007
Workplace Safetv 8:
~e Insurance Board
- ONTARIO
Commission de la securite
professionnelle et de 1'assurance
® contre les accidents du travail
200 Front Street West 200, rue Front Ouest
Toronto, Ontario Toronto (Ontario)
Canada M5V 3J1 Canada M5V 3J1
416-344-4451 416-344-4451
1-800-387-0750 1-800-387-0750
Fax:416-344-4969 Telecopieur:416-344-4969
TTY:1-800-387-0050 -'ATSs:'iB00-387-0050
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Re: Workplace Safety and Insurance Board ~'~ ~l ~:~~ .=
Community Workplace Health & Safety Charter
Dear Mayor Salci and Members of Council,
In Ontario, two people die from preventable work-related incidents each week -another
1,8001ose time from work due to on-the job injuries. The direct and indirect cost to the
Ontario economy amounts to a staggering $15 billion annually. Ontario municipalities
paid more than $100 million in WSIB costs last year. More importantly, the social and
emotional costs of a devastating workplace incident on the families, friends and
neighbours in our communities are incalculable.
I know you will agree these numbers are unacceptable and, I can assure you the incidents
these statistics represent are preventable!
At the Annual AMO Conference in August of this year, I had the pleasure of addressing
the Members of the Board of Directors and introducing them to the Workplace Safety and
Insurance Board's Community Workplace Health and Safety Charter. The WSIB is
launching this initiative to give local councils an opportunity to make a meaningful
public commitment to improved workplace safety in all sectors of their community.
Based on simple and effective principles, this Charter affirms a municipality's
commitment to building safer workplaces for their employees and providing leadership
for the employers and families in their communities. Safe workplaces mean healthy
businesses and healthy businesses mean successful communities.
The WSIB recognizes that municipal corporations do rank workplace health and safety as
one of their top priorities. I know Mayor Salci; your Council believes the City of Niagara
Falls's employees are among your community's most valuable assets.
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Because of this commitment and as community leaders, you have an opportunity to act as
a model employer, strengthening the awareness of superior health and safety practices
throughout your municipality. As health and safety leaders in the City of Niagara Falls,
you are in the unique position to demonstrate to employers in your community that an
investment in workplace health and safety prevention reaps bottom-line benefits.
By supporting the Community Workplace Health and Safety Charter, your Council
will visibly demonstrate its commitment to the welfare of the employers, employees and
the families who live and work in the City of Niagara Falls.
Over the next year, I will be visiting municipal councils throughout Ontario to show them
the value of becoming a supporter of the Community Workplace Health and Safety
Charter initiative. And, you have my personal commitment I and staff at the WSIB will
work along side you to help employers of the City of Niagara Falls understand the
importance of workplace health and safety.
I know, Mayor Salci, that your Council understands we must take action to end the
terrible carnage we're seeing in Ontario's workplaces. I'm asking you to continue to lead
your municipal employees, your local employers, and every man, woman, and child in
the City of Niagara Falls in building healthier, safer workplaces and a more prosperous
Ontario.
You can set the tone. You can make a difference. You can lead the way to zero.
And, you can save lives.
Sincerely,
~~
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Hon. Steven W. Mahoney P.C.
Chair
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As a municipality and an employer, you already understand your responsibility
to provide a safe and healthy workplace for your staff. Your municipal employees
are among your community's most valuable assets, delivering the services and
programs your residents demand.
And successful municipalities understand that adopting acommunity-wide - ~ '
culture of health and safety for all of their local workplaces is an essential part of
maintaining a competitive local economy.
Workplace injuries and illnesses have a devastating financial impact on your
community.
Each year, the WSIB pays out almost $3 billion in compensation for workplace ^~- - -
injuries, illnesses and fatalities. When you add the indirect costs to that amount, ''
I a:=
health and safety failures cost the Ontario economy almost $15 billion per year.
This is a staggering amount; nearly $1,200 for every man, woman and child in -
the province. ___
The reality is, every one of these workplace incidents is preventable. The impact
of these costs to your community's businesses is tangible. The lost financial
opportunity these incidents represent to your community's local economy is
substantial.
We all know that a safe community is a flourishing community, and while issues _ ~~.
. ,`_s ~
of policing, fire and traffic safety are top of mind for many community leaders, `~-._
the social and economic costs of workplace health and safety are too often ~ `'7
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overlooked. Together, we need to build a culture of workplace health and safety
in every Ontario municipality where the only acceptable number of workplace ~ ,
injuries and illnesses is zero.
By becoming leaders in workplace health and safety, you can serve as models
for all employers in your community and demonstrate how an investment in _
prevention reaps bottom-line benefits... for business and for your citizens. ,,
°:°
What does it mean for your community's businesses?
Lower costs. A workplace injury means an increase in benefit costs. And the
longer that worker stays off work, the more it will cost. Your businesses will pay
the lowest amount possible by aggressively pursuing improvements in prevention
and return to work.
Successful businesses mean your community grows and thrives. With fewer
interruptions in production and services, a safe workplace runs efficiently, has a
reputation for reliable products and services and has opportunities for growth.
Better quality products and services. Factors that contribute to improved
quality -such as training, employee involvement, and a system for ensuring that
standards are met -are also the foundation of a safe and healthy workplace.
More motivated workers. Simply put, employees appreciate a workplace in which
they are appreciated.
Workplace injuries and illnesses can be devastating to
your municipality's economy. Consider the costs to your
local businesses:
®Training costs of replacement help or new hires
®Damage to property, equipment or product
~ Downtime for other workers
e Time to complete paperwork
~ Increase in your WSIB administration rate and benefits paid
e Impact on employee morale and productivity
^ Disruption in product or service schedules
^ Impact on reputation
^ Prosecutions and fines
^ Impact on the worker's life and the lives of their family and friends who live
in your community
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LIFEGUARD
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In 2006, there were 331 work-related deaths in Ontario. To simply call them
casualties of the workplace is not adequately honouring their memories. They
were skilled tradespeople and young workers. They were hockey coaches and
hospital volunteers. They were mothers, fathers, daughters, and sons. Each one of
them was an individual with family and friends and ties to their community. Each
one of them is missed. Each one of those deaths could have been prevented
Work-related injuries, illnesses and fatalities create human pain and hardship that
extends beyond the workplace. The impact on families, friends and neighbours
in our communities is incalculable. It's time to stop trying to "reduce" workplace
injuries and channel our energy and resources toward eliminating them.
By making workplace safety a priority for everyone, we're doing more than
protecting workers: We're building the foundation for a healthy and prosperous
community.
What can you do?
We know successful workplace safety "begins at the top." You are able to serve as
models of excellent health and safety in your community. Committed community
leadership is a vitally important factor in good health and safety performance.
Remember, you may be saving a life at the same time.
To demonstrate your leaderships
^ Sign the Community Workplace Health and Safety Charter to make your
commitment visible, and share your experiences with other communities. The
charter will demonstrate your meaningful commitment to the employees and
the families who live, work, and play in your community.
^ Commit to exemplary health and safety standards in all municipal workplaces
and in municipally contracted services.
^ Promote health and safety through municipal events and local communication
channels.
^ Help communicate that "there really are no accidents" and promote
www.prevent-it.ca.
^ Promote... Participate... Partner
What can the WSIB do to help yo~l?
^ No-Fault Insurance
The WSIB generally does not consider who is at fault when determining
benefits.
^ Protection From Lawsuits
Because they can get WSIB benefits, workers cannot sue employers for
similar benefits.
^ Disability Management Support
The WSIB Service Delivery Team helps workers get effective health care and
get back to work as soon as it is safe.
^ Access to Health and Safety Partners
14 health and safety associations (for example, the Municipal Health and
Safety Association) provide access to training programs, products and
services.
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^ Health and Safety Awareness and Information
~, The WSIB's social marketing campaigns and the information available through
our staff and on our websites provide a wealth of information about health
is
'~ and safety, compensation, and disability prevention.
~~ ^ Specialized Experts
We have dedicated teams of Account Managers, Adjudicators and Nurse Case
Managers who provide specialized help with workplace insurance, health and
safety and disability prevention.
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Communication • Connection • Collaboration
Friday November 9, 2007 • Best Western Lamplighter Inn • London, ON
Online registration is available at www.amo.on.ca
Please type or print clearly. Use one form per registrant. Payment MUST accompany registration.
First name Last name
Title Munici alit /Or anization
Address
Cit Prov. Postal Code
Phone Fax Email
REGISTRATION FEE -INCLUDES LUNCH - $175.00 ($165.09 + $g.g1 GST)
GST Registration # 8106732944
November 9t" Sessions
Please check off your morning and afternoon session preferences -see attached for details.
Morning Session -Choose One
^ Communicating with First Nations -The
Municipal Role
^ Environmental Issues -Why Municipal Councils
Should Care
^ Federal-Provincial Updates on Housing
^ Municipal Communication -Internal and
External
^ Financially Sustainable Water and Wastewater
Systems
Afternoon Session -Choose One
^ Communicating Your Financial Picture -The
PSAB Perspective
^ Collaborating for Stronger Communities
^ Meeting Investigators: Your decision for January
1, 2008
^ Alternative and Renewable Energy Sources
^ Land Use Planning Reform (Bill 51)
PAYMENT
Registration forms CANNOT be processed unless accompanied by proper payment.
ONLY PAYMENT BY CREDIT CARD MAY BE FAXED TO 416-971-9372
^ Cheque Payable to: ^ VISA ^ MasterCard
Card #
A
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200 University Ave., Suite 801,
Toronto, ON M5H 3C6 Expiry Date
Signature
REFUND POLICY
Cancellations must be requested in writing and received by AMO on or before October 24, 2007
An administration fee of $26.50 ($25 +GST) will apply.
REGISTRATION INQUIRIES-contact Nav Dhaliwal at 1-877-426-6527 Ext. 330 Email ndhaliwal@amo.on.ca
Ontario Southwest Municipal Conference
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing Association of Municipalities of Ontario
Breakout Sessions -Conference 2007
SESSION TITLE SUMMARY
MORNING
Communicating with First First Nations issues have been the subject of much attention in recent times.
Nations -The Municipal First Nations communities in southern Ontario have a history in the region
Role dating back 11,000 years. Learn more about the "duty to consult" with First
Nations communities in southern Ontario and what it means for local
overnments of all t es and sizes in the re ion.
Environmental Issues - Why should municipal councils be concerned with environmental issues such
Why Municipal Councils as climate change, and the impacts that their decisions can have on the
Should Care environment? There are a number of environmental issues that municipal
councils have dealt with successfully, and this session will explore some
exam les.
Federal-Provincial This session will bring the latest updates on housing from the provincial and
Updates on Housing federal governments. This is an excellent opportunity for municipal delegates
to learn more about what progress is being made across the country, get the
latest news in Ontario, and how this applies to the work municipalities in south-
western Ontario are doin on housin .
Municipal Communication How effective is your communication plan? This session will provide you with
- Internal and External advice on how to improve information sharing, both internally and externally by
sim li in our messa in .
Financially Sustainable Financial plans are a key step in the long-term financial sustainability for
Water and Wastewater municipal residential drinking water and wastewater systems. Good financial
Systems planning can help municipalities ensure that adequate finances are available to
cover both day-to-day operational costs as well as the costs of maintaining and
upgrading municipal water and wastewater systems. Ministry of Environment
speakers will introduce and discuss regulations and guidelines for the
re aration of financial tans under the Safe Drinkin Water Act.
AFTERNOON
Communicating Your This session will provide both staff and council with an understanding of PSAB
Financial Picture -The 3150, its impact on the presentation of financial information, the municipal
PSAB Perspective budget process and the ability to effectively communicate these changes to the
ublic.
Collaborating for Stronger Profiling community development and community economic development
Communities successes. Come and hear from your peers across the southwest as they
share creative and exciting initiatives they are undertaking in efforts to build
stron er communities.
Meeting Investigators: With the proclamation deadline looming -have you considered your decision
Your decision for January to appoint a meeting investigator? An overview of the meeting investigator
1, 2008 position as well as other integrity officers will be provided. The overview will be
followed by the introduction of some `food-for-thought' topics regarding
meetin investi ators b a munici al solicitor.
Alternative and Renewable Promoting alternative and renewable energy sources help fight climate change
Energy Sources and reduce our reliance on conventional energy sources. This session will
discuss what these new types of energy sources are (solar, landfill gas, energy
from waste, etc.) and the issues around planning and zoning for the alternative
and renewable energy infrastructure. The session will also explore the
incentives for residential scale alternative systems under the province's energy
rebate ro ram.
Land Use Planning Reform Ontario's land use planning system has recently undergone a series of
(Bill 51) legislative reforms. The most recent reform (Bill 51) involved changes to the
Planning Act. This session will address the following: What are the changes?
What do the changes mean? How do the changes impact land use planning
decisions and what are the implications for the Ontario Municipal Board?
~-=~ _ _
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~fti>>l'r lc -..C; ~ ~ '~'c ~-~~. >;I"s l~c'1~, i ~3 ;~ `~tt~ti i~O~i. ~ ~~r "i\ '
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Greening the Future }€ ~ _ ~ - ,
~ ' ~ t ~ f~ ~ f~§l. i ! i3 ~i-~~)~ ~ f(fP~~ €21C~i1a,(c~f"1 r{1 1~.:,_~~t'~ifl3i3#l.~)'^,
in Southwestern ,
Ontario
September 14, 2007
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Mayor Ted Salci
Dr. Gordon Nelson City of Niagara Falls
UniversityofWaterloo 4310 Queen Street, P.O. 1023
.IamesD°ncan Niagara Falls, Ontario L2E 6X5
Nature Conservancy of
Canada Dear Mayor Ted Salci and Councilors,
Peter Banks Re: Invitation to Carolinian Canada Forum, Friday, October 26, 2007
Jim Oliver On behalf of the Carolinian Canada Coalition Board of Directors
I extend an
c~iffEvanirski
Conservation Ontario ,
invitation to you to attend our forum on "Exploring the Nature of Climate
Change: Implications fo
th
AliceCasse/man r
e Unique Nature of Southwestern Ontario" on
Friday, October 26, 2007, at the Stoneridge Inn & Conference Centre
Association for Canadian ,
London, Ontario. A draft program agenda and registration form are attached.
Education Resources
The Coalition connects a wide range of stakeholders who work together for
Ron Wu-Winter
Ontario Forestry the conservation of the Carolinian Life Zone. The Zone is Canada's
southernmost ecoregion stret
hi
f
`~°`iari°n c
ng
rom Toronto to Windsor and contains the
highest levels
f
Tara Tcfiir o
natural biodiversity in the country with many global)
significant species and ecosystems. Over 40% of Ontario's Species at Risk
Upper Thames River are found here.
Conservation Authority
Scott Peck The nature of climate change brings complex conservation challenges to this
Ontario Professional threatened landscape. At the forum, we will explore the impacts of climate
P/a„ners~srrute change on Carolinian Canada's unique natural features, how we can manage
them, the benefits of green space to communities in an uncertain future and
MarkErnery
Ontario Stewardship more. Topics will cover natural areas research, stewardshi
p, planning
policy
Nancy Walther ,
and education and community awareness. Discussion sessions will identify
key issues in developing a climate
h
c
ange strategy for Southwestern Ontario
Ontario Federation of .
Agriculture It is critical that we work together to prevent landscape degradation. We
look forward to your participation on F
id
Peter Carson
Ontario Nature r
ay, October 26, 2007. If I can be of
further assistance please call, email or visit our website noted above.
KerryWi/cox Sincerely,
Bird Studies Canada
Chip Bird
Parks Canada
~/~
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Michelle Kanter
Executive Director
CCC FORUM 2007 REGISTRATION
EXPLORING THE NATURE OF CLIMATE CHANGE
Best Western Stoneridge Inn 8~ Conference Centre, London
October 26, 2007
** PLEASE PRINT ** Submit one form per separate mailing address
Name (s)
Group
^ Include Group name in mailing address
Mailing Address
With Postal Code
Phone
E-mail
Carolinian Canada Coalition 2007- 08 Membership
^ $10 Student ^ $20 Individual /Family ^ $50 Organization $
O New Member ^ Renewal
Double your Membership 8~ show that Conservation Matters to You!
Make a Charitable Donation to match your membership fee, strengthen the voice of $
conservation and help nurture sustainable programs in Carolinian Canada.
CCC Forum 2007 8~ AGM 9 am - 4 pm
Includes lunch # x
^ $50 Carolinian Canada Coalition Member ^ $60 Non-member $
^$40 Subsidized rate for non-profit Volunteer or Student ^ Invited Speaker
^ $70 After October 1
Conservation Awards Reception 4 - 5:30 pm # No fee
Displays 8~ Posters 9 am - 5:30 pm
. Included in
O Table display ^ Floor display ^ Poster (please submit description)
forum fee
Topic:
__
Please Indicate ^ Vegetarian ^ Special dietary requirements:
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Fax:519-229-8091 E-mail: conference@carolinian.org Te1:519-433-7077
Reserve your place early. Register on-line at www.carolinian.org ~ J
Exploring the Nature of Climate Change: Implications for the Unique Nature of Southwestern Ontario
Carolinian Canada Coalition Forum 2007 -October 26, 2007, Stoneridge Inn, London ON
Confirmed Speakers -More to Come
9:00 Welcome
9:10 PLENARY: Anticipated Directions of Climatic Change in the Carolinian Canada Ecoregion
Speaker Topic
Ellen Schwartzel, Senior Manager, Policy Analysis What's Cooking?
Environment Commissioner of Ontario's Office The ECO's Perspective on Climate Change in Ontario
Gordon McKean, Director Policy Studies, Institute for A changing climate:
Catastrophic Loss Reduction; University of Western Ontario Implications for the Carolinian Canada Ecoregion
Michelle Kanter, Executive Director, CCC Climate Change and the Big Picture
10:30 Break
11:00 # 1-RESEARCH PANEL: Climate Change Effects in Carolinian Canada
Moderator. Dr. Gordon Nelson CCC Board Chair & Professor Emeritus, Facul of Environmental Studies, U, of Waterloo
~ Linda Mortsch, Senior Researcher Current Understandings of Climate Change
0 Adaptation and Impacts Research Division, Environment Canada in the Lands and Waters of Carolinian Canada
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Chris Lemieux, PhD candidate, Geography The Policy, Planning & Management Implications of Climate Change for
u Faculty of Environmental Studies, University of Waterloo Biodiversity Conservation in the Carolinian Canada Life Zone
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E W Don Maclver, Director Climate Change in Carolinian Canada and
N 0 Adaptation and Impacts Research Division, Environment Canada Its Implications for Rural Residents
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K # 2 -STEWARDSHIP PANEL: Best Practices for an Uncertain Future
5 Moderators: Ron Wu-Winter, Ontario Fores Association & Jo-Anne Rzadki, Conservation Ontario
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0 Dawn R. Bazely, Director, Institute for Research and Innovation Border crossings -How Can Stewardship Programmes in Carolinian Canada
P in Sustainability, York University Respond to Invasions from the South?
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Barb Boysen, Coordinator Reforestation Challenges
Forest Gene Conservation Association -Helping the seed fall farther from the tree?
To be confirmed Stewardship Case Study
12:30 Lunch
1:30 # 3 -PLANNING & POLICY PANEL: Adaptations & Benefits of Green Infrastructure
Moderator: Cliff Evanitski, Conservation Ontario
Paul Gray, Senior Program Adviser Provincial Policy & Planning Issues
Planning & Research Section, Ministry of Natural Resources
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T. Scott Peck, Planner Municipal Tools Available to Deal with Climate Change
N Norfolk County -A Reality Check
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Dena Lewis, Manager, Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecology Terresfial Natural Heritage System Strategy
R Ecology Division, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority
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N 0 To be confirmed Federal Policy Issues - Biodiversity & Climate Change
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# 4 -COMMUNITY ACTION PANEL: Innovative Local Leaders Facing Global Issues
S Moderator. Alice Casselman, Association of Canadian Educational Resources
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0 Patricia Rhoads, Essex Landowner Perspectives from Essex: Rural Communities taking a Lead
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Ron Casier, St. Joseph Catholic High School, St. Thomas Perspectives from Elgin: Youth engaging their Communities
To be confim~ed Perspectives from First Nations: Stewarding a Legacy for the Future
3:00 Break
3:30 Forum Wrap-up: Session Impressions 8 Implications for the Big Picture
4:00 Carolinian Canada Coalition Annual General Meeting
Natural Treasures Book Launch 8 Carolinian Canada Conservation Awards
Rece lion