September 1, 2020: Mayor's Report
WELCOME everyone to our regular meeting of Council of September 1, 2020, being live-streamed through Facebook.
A reminder to members of Council to move and second motions, please state your name. When I call for a vote on motions, rather than ask “all in favour” I will ask if anyone is opposed.
August 5th
I participated in the Emergency Control Group Meeting. We are still in a state of emergency and we will continue to meet bi-weekly until the province changes their state of emergency.
We did receive a one-time payment of $165,000 and $17,000 for transit for COVID related expenses. There will be a report to Council explaining the permitted uses and reporting requirements.
We had planned to have in-person Council Meetings starting today but upon consideration for the safety of the public and staff, it was determined that we will continue with virtual meetings.
August 7th
I attended a meeting at the Crowe Valley Conservation Authority with the Chair Redden and Tim Pidduck regarding the unauthorized use at Callaghan’s Rapids and other recreation areas in the Crowe Watershed. Some locations have been closed due to inadequate infrastructure and unmanageable public use.
August 11th
I participated in a telephone conference call with Warden Phillips and Jim Pine to deal with various issues but in particular the overcrowding of public parks and the impact of COVID driving tourists to recreational areas.
August 12th
I attended the Personnel Committee Meeting.
August 12th
I attended a meeting with Crowe Valley staff and concerned residents regarding the unauthorized use and abuse of the Callahan Rapids conservation area.
August 14th
I participated in a Round Table Zoom conference hosted by MP Derek Sloan to deal with the issues of Cannabis. There are a number of major problems dealing with permitted grow operations: i) there are permits issued for medicinal purposes; ii) for personal use; iii) for large scale retail, etc.
The current legislation is very inadequate and enforcement almost impossible. The Counties of Lennox and Addington and Hastings Prince Edward have written letters to various ministries encouraging them to change legislation so municipalities can ensure that growth operations and locations are in compliance with zoning by-laws, develop by-laws to regulate the growth and uses and enforce by-laws with substantial fines for violations.
August 15th to August 19th
I participated in the AMO Conference which was held by virtual meetings and programs.
AMO held its AGM virtually and elected the Board of Directors through a voting process online. There were three “bull pit” sessions where registrants could submit questions to the ministers. There were training and information sessions.
August 20th
I participated in a Hastings Prince Edward County Board of Health 2nd Wave Planning meeting with Dr. Cataray, Board members and staff.
I know this is not what everyone wants to hear but the medical experts have stated that the pandemic is not expected to be over soon. It may be for two years. A second wave of COVID is expected this fall. The Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Cataray emphasized the need to be vigilant and diligent. They are planning for the worst and hoping for the best.
August 20th
I participated in the Emergency Control Group Meeting.
August 25th
I attended the Hastings County Planning and Development Meeting. Some business affecting Marmora and Lake are as follows:
There is a letter in the Agenda regarding Cannabis grow ops.
A copy of the LPAT decision on the properties at 26 and 29 Forsyth Street between Lori Tannahill and the Municipality of Marmora and Lake was included and the appeal was dismissed. A report was submitted in our previous Council Agenda.
August 25th
I attended the Hastings County Finance Property and Personnel Committee Meeting.
The position of Deputy Warden was approved to be elected by County Council in January.
Provincial Court will open in September.
August 27th
I attended a closed meeting and a regular meeting of Hastings County Council.
Hastings County offices will open in September by appointment. There will be a strict screening protocol when entering the building. It is expected that the next County Council meeting will be held in person.
There are a few items I would like to bring to everyone’s attention.
Please dispose of personal protective equipment appropriately.
The medical officers of health and boards of health are observing what they refer to as COVID FATIGUE. Infectious disease experts fully expect a second wave of COVID and are preparing to respond. With the September long weekend approaching, I want to remind you that it is not appropriate to have large gatherings. It is further recommended that you be diligent with hand washing, wearing a mask especially legislated confined areas and practice self-distancing. Please be vigilant. The further concern is with school starting.
This has been a particularly difficult year for academic facilities, teachers, parents and students. The next year has the potential to be even more difficult. The Province, school boards, teachers, staff and parents are struggling to ensure the safety of students and staff while providing a curriculum and a healthy learning environment. On behalf of myself and Council, thank you for your efforts and good luck in the next year. The present generation are the next leaders. It will be a challenge but I’m sure if everyone works together, there will be a positive outcome.
Finally, Curtis Trimble, Manager of Parks and Recreation officially retired yesterday after 20 years of service to the Municipality of Marmora and Lake. Under normal circumstances, we could have had Curtis here and made a presentation on behalf of Council, staff and the community. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Curtis for his contribution to the municipality and to congratulate him and wish him all the best in his retirement.
Thank you.