Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula Council Meeting Minutes June 10, 2024

457

Members Present: Mayor – Milt McIver, Deputy Mayor – Rod Anderson, Councillor – Todd Dowd, Councillor – Laurie (Smokey) Golden, Councillor – Aman Sohrab 

Staff Present: Chief Administrative Officer – Peggy Van Mierlo-West, Clerk – Cathy Addison, Committee/Licensing Coordinator – Lindsay Forbes, Public Works Manager – Troy Cameron, Chief Building Official – Wendy Elliott, Bylaw Enforcement Officer – Carol Hopkins, Parks and Facilities Manager – Mark Coleman

Others Present: Bruce County Planner – Jennifer Burnett, Nathan Monk, Haseeb Rana

Note: Members of Council and staff were present in the Municipal Office Council Chamber and the meeting was held via zoom, an electronic platform, for members of the public to view. 

Call to Order and Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof

Mayor McIver called the meeting to order at 1:00 p.m. and Council members were reminded to disclose any pecuniary interest and the general nature thereof that may arise during the meeting.

Approval of the Agenda

#17-01-2024

Moved by Councillor Laurie (Smokey) Golden, Seconded by Councillor Todd Dowd

That the content of the agenda be approved as presented.

Carried

Adoption of the Minutes

Re: Council Meeting No. 24-16,May 27, 2024

#17-02-2024

Moved by Deputy Mayor Rod Anderson, Seconded by Councillor Aman Sohrab

That the minutes of Council Meeting No. 24-16, May 27, 2024, be approved as printed and circulated.

Carried

Public Meeting

Re: Zoning By-law Amendment Z-2024-024 (2 Front Street)

Bruce County Planner, Jennifer Burnett, appeared in person at the June 10, 2024, Council Meeting. 

Mayor McIver welcomed Jennifer Burnett to the Council Meeting. 

Bruce County Planner, Jennifer Burnett, provided an overview of Zoning By-law Amendment Z-2024-024 (2 Front Street), the following was noted; 

· An application has been submitted to amend the Northern Bruce Peninsula Zoning By-law by changing the zoning of the subject lands from ‘C1-a-b-h’ to a ‘C1-special site-specific zone to permit a rental cottage and a private park that includes a walkway and sitting/observation area. The park is intended to be used for passive recreation by guests of the rental cottage and of the Blue Bay Motel at 32 Bay Street. The application also proposes to remove the “h” symbol which restricts the use of the property to residential and to remove the ‘b’ symbol which addresses yard setbacks for the C1 zone.

· The 2020 Provincial Policy Statement (PPS) issued under Section 3 of the Planning Act requires that land use planning decisions ‘be consistent with’ provincial policies. Decision makers are asked to be consistent with the policies of the PPS including: 1. Building Strong Communities; 2. Wise Use and Management of Resources; and 3. Protecting Public Health and Safety. The PPS is to be read in its entirety and the relevant policies are to be applied to each situation, therefore only excerpts from the PPS have been highlighted to demonstrate the proposal’s conformity with the Provincial Policy Statement.

· Schedule ‘A’ of the Bruce County Official Plan (BCOP) designates the subject property as ‘Secondary Urban Communities’ and supports Tobermory as a local service centre and tourism/recreation centre accommodating a limited range of residential, tourism, economic and social services. The BCOP permits the conversion of dwellings to commercial uses adjacent to general commercial uses provided that the use can be integrated with adjacent residential uses and adequate parking can be provided (5.2.3.6.b). The surrounding properties are within the same designation and consist primarily of single detached dwellings and commercial transportation properties. The proposed change can be considered to be consistent with the intent of the BCOP.

· The proposed development also falls within the ‘Downtown Commercial’ designation of the Northern Bruce Peninsula Official Plan (NBPOP) where, a wide variety of retail and service uses, serving year-round, seasonal and transient tourist populations are permitted, including accommodation. Section 3.2.3.1 identifies that a goal of the Plan is to develop a long-term improvement programme for the downtown / harbour areas within Tobermory and Lion’s Head, making these areas a pedestrian friendly tourism destination”. This goal is to be actioned by providing “opportunities through the Comprehensive Zoning By-law and other regulations for a mixture of commercial and residential uses in the downtown / harbour areas.” (NBPOP 3.2.3.2). The proposed commercial use would be consistent with the direction of the NBPOP.

· The property falls within the Special Policy Area No. 4 where residential uses are permitted without the need for a primary commercial use on existing lots of record outside of the downtown core areas (NBP OP section 3.2.3.6). This policy recognized the existing dwellings while underscoring the intent of the NBPOP to align the area with commercial uses. The proposed conversion of the lot to commercial accommodation is consistent with the policies of the NBPOP. The property is also within the Municipality’s Community Improvement Area.

· The site contains a detached dwelling and is privately serviced with a well and septic system. As no additional development is being proposed, the existing grading and drainage does not need to be evaluated as part of this application. No comments have been received indicating existing drainage problems. Should development occur in the future, a grading and drainage plan can be requested by the municipality as part of the permit process.

· Section 2.1 of the PPS 2020 directs that Natural features and areas shall be protected for the long term. The Planning Justification Report submitted by the applicant indicates that landscaping of the lot is complete and a replanting plan associated with the landscape work is being completed. An Environmental Impact Study would serve no useful purpose at this time as no development or further site alteration is proposed.

· Section 3.0 of the PPS 2020, Protecting Public Health and Safety, directs that development shall be directed away from areas of natural or human-made hazards. Section 6.12 of the Zoning By-law identifies that the property contains an Environmental Hazard Area (EH) zone related to the areas of the property located below the high water mark elevation of 177.6 m G.S.C. This is the area of the lot that abuts the water. The EH zone permits parks and the launching, docking and housing of boats. Comments received from area residents indicated that as the property is in close proximity to the Chi Cheemaun Ferry, that boating activity may be restricted and is generally not a recommended activity.

· Comments received from Saugeen Ojibway Nation (SON) request that a holding provision be applied to the lands to be removed after the completion of an archaeology assessment to the satisfaction of SON. A holding provision can be added to the site-specific amending bylaw. The application is consistent with Section 1.2 of the PPS.

· Section 4.6.3.4 of the Bruce County Official Plan defers to the Ministry of Transportation for approval of development within the MTO permit control areas. Comments have not been submitted by the Ministry of Transportation; therefore, it cannot be determined that the proposal is consistent with Section 1.6.8.3 of the PPS 2020 and Section 4.6.3.4 of the Bruce County Official Plan. Municipal staff have requested a Traffic/Pedestrian Brief.

· Concerns were raised with the park use include garbage, washroom facilities and parking. The provision of garbage and washroom facilities can be addressed through a site plan agreement. Parking is addressed in the following section of this report.

· County staff attended the site on May 23, 2024 and note that the sitting area adjacent to the water and the pathway are not wheelchair accessible. It is recommended that the owner confirm that the park is compliant with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA), given that it is part of a commercial business and not a private residence.

· There is sufficient area on the lot to accommodate off-street parking for 4 cars.

· Section 6.22.1 of the Zoning By-law prescribes a 1 m (3ft) wide planting area where a commercial zone abuts a residential zone. Alternately, a continuous board fence with a height of 6 ft would also provide that screen between the uses.

· Permitted under Section 41 of the Planning Act, a site plan agreement can be used to address municipal and agency requirements that occur prior to and during the operation of the business. The amending zoning by-law can identify the property as a site plan control area. Planning staff recommend that the site plan agreement:

1. Include a provision requiring the developer to install of a continuous vegetative buffer or a continuous board fence, of 1.83 m (6ft) in height, at the property line of 4 Front Street, Tobermory. The buffer shall consist of a sufficient number of trees to effectively create a screen, at a minimum height of 1 m when planted and a minimum height of 3 m at maturity. The trees shall be planted in accordance with recommended spacing requirements for the tree type.

2. Contain a provision regulating the hours of operation of the private park.

3. Contain a provision regulating garbage containers and washroom facilities at the private park.

4. Contain a provision requiring the posting of signs noting hazards associated with swimming and prohibiting the launching of watercraft at the private park.

5. Be registered on title to the lands.

Bruce County Planner, Jennifer Burnett read segments of comments received by residents and the Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula surrounding Zoning By-law Amendment Z-2024-024 (2 Front Street). Concerns were noted surrounding safety, garbage, traffic, washrooms, water access, parking, and proposed commercial utilization of the property.

It was noted that notices surrounding Zoning By-law Amendment Z-2024-024 (2 Front Street), were distributed to all properties within 120 metres of the subject lands and all applicable agencies. 

Bruce County Planner, Jennifer Burnett stated that correspondence from the Ministry of Transportation was received after the report deadline stating that comments are forthcoming. They further inquired if site plan approval is required. 

Correspondence received after the planning report was submitted from Brian Gage was presented to Council by Ms. Burnett. 

It was noted that the report for Zoning By-law Amendment Z-2024-024 (2 Front Street) will be brought back to Council following the submission of comments by the Ministry of transportation. 

Mayor McIver thanked Bruce County Planner, Jenn Burnett, for her presentation.

Mayor McIver opened the meeting to questions from Council at this time.

Deputy Mayor, Rod Anderson, inquired surrounding the requirement for an Archeological Assessment at the dwelling.

Jennifer Burnett noted that the requirement for the Archeological Assessment is solely a holding provision for the property, as no site alteration or development is occurring at this time.

Councillor Golden noted that it is difficult to distinguish property lines for properties with water frontage. She further noted that the anticipated confusion surrounding property boundaries associated with the private park will significantly impact the neighbors. 

Mayor McIver opened the meeting to questions from the public at this time. 

Debbie Golden-Thornton appeared in person at the Council Meeting. 

Debbie Golden Thornton inquired regarding the ability for the property owner to sell passes to the proposed park, as provisions of the Zoning By-law cannot control who the owner permits to utilize the proposed park. 

Debbie Golden Thornton noted that Section 2.1 of the PPS 2020 states that natural areas and features should be protected for the long term. She further noted that landscaping work was completed at the site prior to the submission the application for Zoning By-law Amendment Z-2024-024 (2 Front Street). An Environmental Impact Study would therefore not be effective.

Debbie Golden Thornton inquired surrounding the ability of the property owner to ensure compliance surrounding provisions of installing a screen, either a 3ft wide planting area or a continuous board fence with a height of 6 ft, as a pathway has been built on the property line.

Debbie Golden-Thornton inquired regarding enforcement of the conditions within the Site Plan Control Agreement for Zoning By-law Amendment Z-2024-024 (2 Front Street), if the application is approved.

Bruce County Planner, Jennifer Burnett noted that removing the “b” provision on the zoning would ensure that future development would have to comply with greater setback and lot coverage provisions, which would result in the 0.9 metre front yard setback being moved back to a 7.5 metre setback. Jennifer Burnett further noted that the zone provisions speak to buildings and structures regarding setbacks, not pathways.

Rowan Herman appeared in person at the Council Meeting. 

Rowan Herman noted that she purchased the property adjacent to 2 Front Street in August 2023. She further stated that landscapers arrived at 2 Front Street in September 2023. 

Rowan Herman provided an overview of the organizations she contacted regarding the landscaping occurring at 2 Front Street, including Parks Canada and the Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula. 

Rowan Herman inquired surrounding land use provisions on properties of differing zones owned by the same party.

Rowan Herman commented surrounding the operation of an unlicensed Short-term Accommodation at the property.

Bruce County Planner, Jennifer Burnett noted that land use provisions are specific to the individual property and do not transfer to other properties, even if the property owner retains additional properties. 

Rowan Herman noted concerns associated with the proposed implementation of a “Tourist Home” and park on 2 Front Street, including concerns surrounding safety, privacy, ecology, accessibility, and sanitation. 

Doug Pokupec appeared in person at the Council Meeting. 

Doug Pokupec provided an overview of the provisions associated with the C1-abh Zoning currently retained by the dwelling. He further provided an overview on the Zoning provisions associated with the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment in relation to the creation of a “Tourist Home” and Park at the noted property. 

Doug Pokupec inquired surrounding the validity of the survey and property markers associated with the property. Doug Pokupec further inquired surrounding the determination of the high water mark.

Doug Pokupec commented surrounding the requirements for a “Tourist Home”, including the required number of bedrooms to obtain the classification. 

Bruce County Planner, Jennifer Burnett, commented on the Zoning By-law as it pertains to existing lots of record and provisions surrounding frontage and lot size.

Owen Sound Transportation Company (OSTC) representative, Kerry Adams, appeared in person at the Council Meeting. 

Kerry Adams noted the appropriate department at OSTC did not receive the notice of Public Meeting surrounding Zoning By-law Amendment Z-2024-024 (2 Front Street) until Thursday, June 6, 2024.

Kerry Adams noted that the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment Z-2024-024 (2 Front Street) is not compatible with the operation of the OSTC. 

Kerry Adams noted concerns with the proposed implementation of a park at 2 Front Street pertaining to the anticipated utilization of washroom facilities at the Chi-Cheemaun Ferry Terminal, parking, and safety issues surrounding the close proximity of the property to the daily operations of the Chi Cheemaun Ferry. 

Kerry Adams noted that the Chi Cheemaun Ferry currently experiences 2-3 near misses a day surrounding recreational water activities in close proximity to the Ferry. 

Kerry Adams further stated that the OSTC is opposed to the proposed implementation of a park at the noted property.

Bruce County Planner, Jennifer Burnett, requested the submission of formal written comments to the Bruce County Planning and Development from the Owen Sound Transportation Company. 

Councillor Golden commented surrounding the OSTC’s approach to addressing traffic and parking concerns around the Chi Cheemaun Ferry Terminal. 

Kerry Adams noted that the OSTC no longer has the side lane blocked for bigger trucks.

Barbara Zych appeared in person at the Council Meeting. 

Barbara Zych commented surrounding the proximity of the proposed park to the Chi Cheemaun water intake system, the number of people anticipated to utilize the park, and portable washrooms.

Planning Advisor, Michael Schnare, appeared in person at the Council Meeting. 

Michael Schnare provided a brief overview of Zoning By-law Amendment Z-2024-024 (2 Front Street).

Michael Schnare requested that Council defer a decision surrounding Zoning By-law Amendment Z-2024-024 (2 Front Street) until such time that the comments from the MTO are received, the required traffic assessment is obtained, and an amendment is performed on the planning report. 

Michael Schnare requested that Council reconsider Steve Levack’s previous request to be grandfathered into the Short-term Accommodation Licensing Program until such time that the proposed rezoning is approved and implemented. 

Michael Schnare commented surrounding the proposed private park. The following was noted;

· The property owner wishes to limit park actively to patrons of the Blue Bay Motel.

· The property owner has no intentions to sell day passes to the park.

· The intent of the application is to permit a passive park, not a private park.

· The inclusion of water activities, such as kayaking and paddleboarding, can be removed from the application due to the above noted safety concerns. 

· The creation of a Site Plan Control Agreement can address the above noted concerns surrounding property boundaries.

· The property owner will comply with requirements regarding the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. 

· Patrons of the Blue Bay Motel should not be parking at the site due to the close proximity to the Blue Bay Motel. However, an Accessible Parking Space may be required at the site. 

· The completion of a Pedestrian Traffic Assessment will address concerns regarding pedestrian traffic walking to the property. 

Michael Schnare noted that Mr. Levack has agreed to work with municipal staff and retain a traffic consultant to perform the requested traffic assessment. 

Michael Schnare commented surrounding the proposed “Rental Cottage”. The following was noted; 

· A previous rezoning at 104 Bay Street South in Tobermory occurred to permit such use. 

· The property owner intends to implement a “Tourist Home” at the property as opposed to a “Rental Cottage”.

· The existing dwelling at 2 Front Street contains 3 bedrooms and an additional room which can be utilized as a bedroom to facilitate the 4 bedroom requirement for a “Tourist Home”.

Steve Levack appeared in person at the Council Meeting. 

Steve Levack provided an overview surrounding the purchase of the property with the intent to expand the offerings of the Blue Bay Motel. 

Steve Levack noted that upon the purchase of the property, it was stated that it was suitable for commercial use with a grandfathered residential use. 

Steve Levack noted that Landscaping projects began in 2023 by Hutton Shores Landscaping and that a professional survey was completed when property boundaries were initially questioned. He further noted that all setbacks were followed and that two sets of stakes are present to define the boundary and the required setbacks surrounding a vegetation screen or fence. 

Steve Levack noted that he intends to permit hotels guests to enjoy the property, not general members of the public through day passes. He further noted that a passive parkette is permitted within the zoning provisions.

Planning Advisor, Michael Schnare, commented surrounding the ability to amend the application to retain the b provision. 

Doug Pokupec inquired surrounding the legitimacy of the survey bars. He further inquired surrounding the definition of a park.

Bruce County Planner, Jenn Burnett noted that the definition of a park is included within the Zoning By-law.

It was noted that the proposed changes surrounding the application for Zoning By-law Amendment Z-2024-024 (2 Front Street) will be presented to Council in a subsequent report.

Mayor McIver closed the public meeting at this time. 

#17-03-2024

Moved by Deputy Mayor Rod Anderson, Seconded by Councillor Aman Sohrab

Comments have not been received from the Ministry of Transportation, therefore, it cannot be determined that Zoning By-law Amendment Application Z-2024-024 by Steve Levack, is consistent with the Provincial Policy Statement 2020, the County of Bruce Official Plan and the Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula Official Plan. It is recommended that the Planning Report dated June 10, 2024, for lands described as TOWN PLOT BURY EBR PT LOTS;45 TO 47 NS FRONT RP3R 292; PARTS 2,3 & 6 & RP 3R474; PART 3 (Tobermory) and addressed as 2 Front Street, be received for information. 

Carried

Delegation

Nathan Monk and Haseeb Rana (Zoom)

Re: Short-term Accommodation at 109 Spry Shore Road

Nathan Monk appeared in person at the June 10, 2024, Council Meeting. 

Mayor McIver welcomed Nathan Monk to the Council Meeting. 

It was noted that Nathan Monk was presenting on behalf of Grey Bruce Cottages, the team managing the Short-term Accommodation at 109 Spry Shore Road. 

Nathan Monk provided an overview of the services and mitigation measures offered by Grey Bruce Cottages surrounding compliance with the Short-term Accommodation Licensing Program. It was further noted that feedback and concerns surrounding properties under their management are taken very seriously. 

The representatives for 109 Spry Shore Road refuted claims made against the property made during the delegation by Loretta Plomley and Ian Kelland at the May 27, 2024, Council Meeting.

Nathan Monk stated that the property owner has installed cameras, noise monitoring system, and acquired a dumpster to address the complaints regarding the property.

Clerk, Cathy Addison, left the meeting at 2:33 p.m. 

Nathan Monk provided an overview of the property management company, Grey Bruce Cottages Inc. He further noted that Grey Bruce Cottages was not notified surrounding the noise complaint on May 10, 2024. 

Clerk, Cathy Addison, returned to the meeting at 2:35 p.m.

Nathan Monk provided an overview of the process utilized by Grey Bruce Cottages when a complaint is reported regarding one of the properties they manage. 

Nathan Monk noted that all neighboring properties have been advised to contact Grey Bruce Cottages surrounding complaints for 109 Spry Shore Road.

Nathan Monk informed members of Council that guests are required to sign off on a guidebook, which outlines the Renter Code of Conduct and information surrounding the property and neighborhood prior to receiving check-in information. He further noted that 109 Spry Shore Road rents to an average of 9 people per rental, as opposed to the 12 individuals the property is permitted to address noise complaints received surrounding the dwelling.

In response to the complaints surrounding garbage associated with the rental, it was noted that a bear bin, bolted to the ground, and a Miller Waste Dumpster are present at the property. 

The following was noted surrounding Grey Bruce Cottages’ mitigation plan surrounding complaints;

· Enforcement provisions surrounding the inability of guests to have parties at the rental

· Ensuring compliance with noise regulations within the Municipal Noise By-law

· Clear communication strategy with neighbors surrounding the submission of complaints to Grey Bruce Cottages

Nathan Monk noted that the complaints regarding the property, stated at the May 27, 2024, Council meeting do not reflect the reality of the operation. 

It was noted that Grey Bruce Cottages and the property owner want to continue to offer a high standard of property management for 109 Spry Shore Road.

Mayor McIver thanked Nathan Monk for his delegation. 

Property Owner, Haseeb Rana, appeared via Zoom at the Council Meeting. 

Mr. Rana commented on the May 10, 2024, noise complaint which was received by the OPP for 109 Spry Shore Road. He further stated that apologies have been sent to neighboring properties, and that noise monitoring systems have been installed at the property.

Mr. Rana stated that it is not his intention to disrupt the lives of his neighbors and that he is cautious about the rentals booked for the property.

Mayor McIver thanked Haseeb Rana for his delegation. 

Consideration of Agenda Items

1. Chief Building Official Report No. BD 24-15

Re: No Demand for Services Site Plan Control Agreement

Owners: Mr. Robert Sclisizzi & Mr. Brian Sclisizzi

Island 73, 162 Greenough Harbour Lane

Assessment Roll No. 4109-660-001-35400-0000

Property Identifier Number (PIN): 33344-0079 (LT)

#17-04-2024

Moved by Councillor Aman Sohrab, Seconded by Councillor Laurie (Smokey) Golden

That, the negotiation, and registration of a No Demand for Services Site Plan Control Agreement requested by Mr. Robert Sclisizzi & Mr. Brian Sclisizzi, owners of the property legally described as Island 73 and located at 162 Greenough Harbour Lane, Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula be approved.

Carried

2. Chief Building Official Report No. BD 24-16

Re: Trailer Agreement 

Applicant/Owner (s): Mr. Brian Blaney & Ms. Barbara Blaney

Plan 569 Lot 29, 22 Ronald Street, Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula, County of Bruce

Assessment Roll No. 41 09 620 001 10705 0000

#17-05-2024

Moved by Councillor Todd Dowd, Seconded by Deputy Mayor Rod Anderson

That the Trailer Agreement requested by Mr. Brian Blaney & Ms. Barbara Blaney for the property legally described as Plan 569 Lot 29 (41 09 620 001 10705 0000) Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula be approved, and;

That the owner acknowledges that the building being constructed will be substantially completed and ready for occupancy within one (1) year from date of signing of the Trailer Agreement.

Carried

3. Parks and Facilities Manager Report PF No. 24-08

Re: Quotation for a Electric UTV Side X Side

Discussion ensued surrounding the information contained within Parks and Facilities Manager Report No. PF 24-08. 

Discussion ensued surrounding the selection of the quotation from Huron Tractor-Chatsworth. 

Discussion ensued surrounding the status of the Parks and Facilities Truck in Tobermory which is utilized by Harbour Staff. It was noted that the noted truck died on the weekend.

Parks and Facilities Manager, Mark Coleman, noted that the vehicle is currently being assessed by a mechanic.

#17-06-2024

Moved by Deputy Mayor Rod Anderson, Seconded by Councillor Aman Sohrab

That Council receives Parks and Facilities Report PF 24-08 regarding Quotations for Electric UTV Side x Side as information; and

That Council accepts the quotation from Huron Tractor-Chatsworth for the purchase and supply of one new 2024 John Deer Gator TE in the amount $20,000.00 + HST.

Carried

4. Accounts Payable Voucher 

Re: May 2024

Councillor Golden inquired surrounding the $40,000.00 for Drone Training on the May 2024 Accounts Payable Voucher.

CAO, Peggy Van Mierlo-West noted that a grant was received to cover the associated cost of training.

#17-07-2024

Moved by Councillor Todd Dowd, Seconded by Councillor Aman Sohrab

That Council receives approved Accounts Payable Voucher for May 2024, in the amount of $2,201,991.02.

Carried

5. Museum Committee 

Re: May 7, 2024, Meeting Minutes

#17-08-2024

Moved by Councillor Laurie (Smokey) Golden, Seconded by Councillor Aman Sohrab

That the minutes of Museum Committee Meeting No. 24-04, May 7, 2024, and all actions contained therein be approved as printed and circulated.

Carried

Other Business

Councillor Sohrab inquired surrounding the status of Cabot Head Road.

· CAO, Peggy Van Mierlo-West noted that the Municipality have met with the Friends of Cabot Head and received an update from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) surrounding an ongoing Species at Risk Assessment.

· She further noted that the road is closed, and trespassing is not permitted. Additionally, DFO was notified surrounding a broken window at the lighthouse.

Councillor Golden inquired surrounding an update on the Electric Vehicle Chargers at the Tobermory Community Centre.

· CAO, Peggy Van Mierlo-West stated that ChargeQuest would be contacted for recommendations on how to proceed with the parking spaces.

Correspondence

1. Bruce Trail Conservancy (Information)

Re: May 27, 2024 Council Agenda Item 5.1, “Closing a portion of Crane Lake Road”

2. Multi Municipal Energy Working Group (Information)

Re: March 14, 2024, Meeting Minutes

3. Source Protection Authority (Information)

Re: Source Protection Plan Pre-Consultation, Section 34 Plan Amendments

4. Shelly Wright (Information)

Re: Telecommunications towers

5. Physicians for a Smoke-Free Ontario (Information)

Re: Municipal Bylaws to support the Smoke Free Ontario Act and Protect Communities from Hookah Lounges

6. Walker Industries (Information)

Re: Thank you letter – Response to Accident at the corner of Lindsay Rd 5 and Highway 6

7. Western Ontario Wardens Caucus (Information)

Re: Media Release

8. Resolution – The Town of Plympton-Wyoming (Information)

Re: ERO Postings 019-8369, 019-8462, and 0-19-8371

#17-09-2024

Moved by Councillor Todd Dowd, Seconded by Councillor Laurie (Smokey) Golden

That the correspondence items #1-8 be received as information as printed and circulated.

Carried

9. Resolution – Municipality of Callander (Information)

Re: Urging the Government to Promptly Resume Assessment Cycle

#17-10-2024

Moved by Councillor Laurie (Smokey) Golden, Seconded by Councillor Aman Sohrab

That Council supports the following Resolution from the Municipality of Callander.

WHEREAS the assessment cycle is an essential process for maintaining the fairness and predictability of property taxes in our province; 

AND WHEREAS the pause in the reassessment cycle has created uncertainty and instability in property taxation, impacting both residential and commercial property owners; 

AND WHEREAS the government has delayed an assessment update again in 2024, resulting in Ontario’s municipalities continuing to calculate property taxes using 2016 property values; 

AND WHEREAS both current and outdated assessments are inaccurate, increase volatility, and are not transparent; 

AND WHEREAS frequent and accurate reassessments are necessary to stabilize property taxes and provide predictability for property owners, residents, and businesses alike; 

AND WHEREAS the staff at the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation would benefit from further skills enhancement and training in assessments, recognizing the importance of ensuring accurate evaluations for 100% of our municipality; 

AND WHEREAS the Government has announced a review of the property assessment and taxation system with a focus on fairness, equity, and economic competitiveness, and therefore further deferring new property assessment; 

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Council of the Municipality of Callander hereby calls upon the Premier to promptly resume the assessment cycle to ensure the stability and predictability of property taxes while the Government conducts its review of the property assessment and taxation system, or respond with an alternative method for every municipality in Ontario to achieve fair taxation; 

AND THAT all Municipalities in Ontario and their constituents are encouraged to apply pressure to the Premier, daily, weekly, and monthly, to resolve the situation before it causes undo stress to everyone in the Municipality; 

AND THAT a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Premier, the relevant provincial authorities, the Association of Municipality in Ontario, the Rural Ontario Municipalities Association, the Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities, the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation, and all municipalities in Ontario for their consideration, to make proper changes as quickly and efficiently as possible. 

Carried

10. Warren Stewart (Direction)

Re: Request to waive interest and penalties associated with the Pettigrew Municipal Drain Invoice (CON 1 WBR Lot 18 and CON1 WBR Lot 19)

#17-11-2024

Moved by Deputy Mayor Rod Anderson, Seconded by Councillor Todd Dowd

That Council do not support waiving the waiving the interest of $551.70 for Warren Stewart for penalties associated with the Pettigrew Municipal Drain Invoice.

Carried

Reading of By-laws

By-law 2024-47

Being a By-law to Amend By-law No. 2021-84 A By-Law to Establish a By-law to Manage Short Term Accommodations for the Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula

By-law 2024-50

Being A By-Law to Confirm the Proceedings of the Council Meeting of The Corporation of The Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula Held Monday, June 10, 2024

#17-12-2024

Moved by Councillor Todd Dowd

Seconded by Deputy Mayor Rod Anderson

That the listed by-laws be given 1st, 2nd, and 3rd reading, and enacted.

Carried

Closed Session – Nil.

Reconvene from Closed Session to Resume Council Meeting – Nil.

Adjournment

We are attempting to make every document accessible but there may still be difficulty in recognizing all the information. Please contact the Accessibility Coordinator if you require assistance and we will make every attempt to provide this information in an alternate format.

#17-13-2024

Moved by Councillor Aman Sohrab, Seconded by Councillor Laurie (Smokey) Golden

That the meeting adjourns at 3:20 p.m.

Carried