September 15, 2020: Mayor's Report

I would like to mention that we are back to regularly scheduled meetings of Planning at 4:00 and Council at 6:30 p.m. We will continue to meet virtually until we are confident that we can hold meetings in person and adhere to the distancing requirements and protocol associated with COVID. Please refer to the Marmora and Lake website for accurate schedules.

September 2nd

I attended the first in-person meeting at the Board of Health. Dr. Cataray, temporary Medical Officer of Health gave a complete review of the COVID-19 history and the general planning for the next wave should it happen and it is expected to happen, maybe simultaneous with the flu season. The numbers continue to rise and it is possible that Premier Ford may impose lockdown.

The Board of Health is continuing to provide its mandated services such as water sample testing, immunization services, food inspections, etc.

School startup seems to be the primary focus for all levels of government, boards of education, school bus companies, bus drivers, teachers, parents and the public in general. The Board is working closely with the Board of Education to provide the safest school learning environment for both students and teachers. This is uncharted territory and very stressful for all concerned. I wish the students and teachers good luck in the next school year and please stay well.

September 3rd

I had a telephone meeting with Tim Pidduck regarding the concerned citizen’s group and proposed measures to protect and restrict the unauthorized use of Callahan Rapids.

September 8th

I attended the closed meeting of Council.

September 9th

I participated in the Emergency Control Group Meeting. Nothing much has changed from the last meeting except for the arena being prepared for use by the various groups and a change in library hours.

September 11th I met with Tonia, CAO about various agenda items.

I met with Tammy May, the Economic Development Coordinator to discuss various business and community issues. Tammy is meeting with individual business owners and operators in the Municipality. A meeting of the Economic Development Committee is scheduled for the end of the month.

September 14th

I met with Tonia, CAO, and Jenn, Deputy Clerk to discuss and clarify various items on the Strategic Plan which is in today’s agenda. This report is vital to the decision making of the Council based on goals and objectives as outlined in the report and implementation of the decisions by staff. The report will be reviewed on an annual basis and updated as required.

September 15th

I participated in the Hastings County Planning and Development Committee Meeting. Under the Land Division portion of the Agenda, the Keeler land division application was discussed. The Official Plan amendments being proposed include rural land severances, permitted secondary dwelling options, short term rental by-law development which will require amendments to the Official Plan. The Hastings County Planning Department is prepared to provide assistance to municipalities to develop their individual by-laws.

As a reminder – recent increases in the numbers of COVID are deemed to be the result of COVID FATIGUE. Irresponsible gatherings and resistance to wearing a mask particularly in the under 40 age group. It is imperative and our individual personal responsibility to adhere to limiting gatherings and wearing a mask when social distancing is difficult or in public spaces especially inside now that the weather will cause us to move indoors. Please be vigilant and follow the COVID protocol to keep our community safe.