October 20: Mayor's Report

October 6th

I participated in the Emergency Control Group Meeting, Planning & Development Committee, Committee of Adjustment and our regularly scheduled Council Meeting.

October 7th

I attended the Board of Health Meeting.

As previously reported, the Board of Health is predicting increased COVID numbers through the fall and winter months and they are ramping up their resources in hospitals to be prepared to respond to the combined flu and COVID infestations. They are concerned that with the cooler weather, people will congregate indoors and gatherings indoors create a greater risk for spreading the virus. Please be diligent. Refrain from indoor gatherings and adhere to the COVID protocol.

October 14th

I had a telephone conference with the President and CEO of Campbellford Memorial Hospital. They are looking for support from surrounding communities to initiate a grant application with the province for funding to “redevelop” the hospital to meet future needs. He will be providing me with some specific information which I will bring to the Economic Development Committee Meeting next week.

October 14th

I met with the municipal treasurer regarding 2021 budget priorities. All members of Council are encouraged to meet individually with Jocelyn to provide staff with input, establish the basis for the development of the budget and identify key priorities. The budget schedule is on the website. A reminder to our residents, there is a budget survey on the website and I encourage you to complete the survey.

October 15th

I met with the CAO regarding a severance application and agenda items.

During the week, I had numerous discussions with the Callaghan’s Rapids community representative and the CVCA. It appears that EOTA, the CVCA and some other community partners are working together to put up barriers to restrict access with motorized vehicles to the sensitive ecology of the area. Thank you to the EOTA, CVCA and the volunteers who have contributed to the protection of this unique and special scientifically designated area.

October 20th

I attended the Hastings County Planning and Development Committee Meeting and Finance Property and Personnel Committee Meeting.

The Province has not restricted Halloween Trick or Treating but advises to be cautious and follow COVID protocol. They have however advised against party gatherings indoors. In previous years, the municipal staff have collected candy and treats donated by the community and hosted a Halloween party for trick or treaters at the Community Centre. It was determined that it was not safe to do this in accordance with restricted gatherings.