Mayor's Report for September 20, 2022
September 6th
I presided over the regular Planning Meeting and Council Meeting. There were 9 Rezoning applications on the Planning Agenda. Planning applications have increased significantly .
At the regular meeting of Council, on behalf of Council, Councillor Donaldson and I presented certificates Fire Chief, Tony Brownson and our Fire Department, Dylan Adams, Roads Manager and roads work crew, and OPP officers Bernier, Kirkwood, Arney, and Preston. OPP officers commended our staff for their cooperation and cited them as being the best work crew during the response to the tornadoes.
As well, a certificate was presented to Abigail Cassidy for her heroic actions to save a boat operator at- Booster Park.
A certificate was presented to Bill Rogers on the occasion of his retirement.
Again, on behalf of myself and Council, thank you to our staff, to Abigail for her heroic efforts and congratulations to Bill on his retirement and thank you all for your service to the municipality.
September 7th
I chaired the regular meeting of the Hastings Prince Edward Board of Health. Staff made presentations on tick infestation, the statistics and programs regarding sexually transmitted diseases, and 2023 budget impacts due to inflation.
September 13th
I presented four certificates to new businesses. Marmora Vape, Uniquely Yours, Country ComputerZ and Surprisingly Simple Seniors Help. Welcome to Marmora and Lake and thank you for bringing your business to our municipality.
A joint meeting was organized for local businesses by Shari Pearce, the Chamber of Commerce and Tammy May, Economic Development Coordinator. Attendees from Marmora, Madoc and Tweed were present. There was a door prize and refreshments. Thank you to Shari and Tammy. It is an opportunity to network, share business cards and meet other business owners/operators.
September 15th
I chaired the Board meeting of the Crowe Valley Conservation Authority. There was a public hearing and a regular meeting. The number of applications has increased significantly and staff are doing their best to process applications as quickly as possible.
September 16th
I met with Rick Bresee, MPP. We discussed support for the Pumped Storage Project, changes to the Conservation Act and the change of ministry they report to. Funding for Conservation Authorities has been dramatically reduced over the years. I requested his support to ensure Marmora and Lake receives recognition and that he supports our grant applications submitted to the Province. He assured me that we have a direct line to his office and his support.
September 17th
I attended a gathering and I want to share comments from the residents. They expressed their gratitude and thank you to our works crews for the cleanup efforts after the tornadoes. They also stated that they are satisfied with the roads and contracted services.
They stated that when they need services from the office staff they are treated with courtesy and expressed their appreciation.
September 18th
I attended the pancake breakfast put on by the Curling Club. It was delicious and all proceeds were donated to the Terry Fox Run. Thank you to the Curling Club.
I announced the official opening of the Terry Fox Run. In spite of the poor weather, there were a number of people participating in the event.
September 20th
Hastings County CAO provided a report and update on the Eastern Ontario Regional Network Project to improve broadband services across Eastern Ontario and particularly Hastings County.
During COVID it was apparent that broadband services were deficient and failed to meet the increased need for access to reliable internet and cell services.
Currently, under contract with Rogers, the project includes 265 new towers and upgrades to 300 existing towers. This is a $300 million dollar project funded through Rogers private investment, the Federal and Provincial Governments and Hastings County. Hastings' County's investment is $506,000.
To date: 20 towers have been uplifted, 33 new towers constructed across the County.
At the last Council meeting we considered the regulations set out to meet these objectives within our municipality. At that time, staff were directed to produce a report on our application process. Today, Jim Pine, CAO, encouraged any municipality to reach out to him if there were challenges or concerns on the process.
The objective is to complete the project by 2025 event. Thanks to Ernie Hamilton and his family, the Lions Club for the barbeque, the entertainers, the organizers and everyone who participated. I understand that about $4500 was raised and donated.
September 19th
I attended the funeral celebration for Queen Elizabeth II, put on by the Marmora Legion Branch 237. A wreath was laid at the cenotaph. Thank you to the Legion members for organizing the parade and for the lunch, parks and recreation staff for the playing of the anthem, and for everyone who attended.
September 20th
I attended the Hastings County Finance, Property and Personnel Meeting
I would like to ask that we have a moment of silence in remembrance of the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Thank you