Mayor's Report for August 1, 2023
July 4th
I presided over our Planning and Regular Council Meetings. One meeting in July and August is cancelled.
July 6th
I participated in a Personnel Committee meeting to discuss ongoing personnel issues.
July 7th
I was invited to attend the Elvis Tribute Show at the Marmora Legion. The event was very well attended. I was told that Elvis stopped at various locations in town and proceeded to entertain at different locations. Thanks to the Marmora Legion for organizing and hosting this event.
July 12th
I attended the office to sign cheques and documents.
July 14th
I was invited to attend the St. Mary's of Egypt Refuge in Queensborough. The Refuge is associated with St. John's Mission out of Toronto. The purpose of the refuge is to provide a place close to nature which allows people to recover from traumatic experiences and abusive situations in a spiritual and natural connection with nature and the environment. It is not affiliated with a specific religion. The location is on the Black River with a chapel, a gathering room, and a number of cabins. There is also a huge green house where they grow vegetables for their own consumption, as well as selling eggs, jams, vegetables, etc. at the local farmer's market. They have chickens and goats. We were invited to stay for dinner where the chef served a predominantly vegetarian meal and entertainment was provided by one of the visitors. It was a very inspiring experience. They have an activities and program director who organizes various daily activities including canoeing, painting, crafts, and much more. Some people stay for the entire summer and some just for a day. It was a truly inspiring experience and I can say that the owners/administrators and volunteers were so welcoming and kind, I can understand why this would be a healing atmosphere.
July 18th
I attended the office to sign cheques.
July 19th
I attended the office to collect certificates for future scheduled presentations.
July 20th
I attended the weekly Classic Cruisers Car Show which was held in memory of Ross Holland. Ross was one of the original organizers of the Classic Cruisers and his family were present to share memories with their many classic car friends. It was a great event. Thank you to Henry and his team for organizing this tribute to Ross and everyone who came out to Marmora with their classic cars and to Shirley and her family for the treats they were distributing.
I was interviewed by Sean Kelly on the Lorne Brooker Show. My message was primarily on how beautiful the Municipality of Marmora and Lake is and the main attractions such as our beautiful park, complements of the Lions Club, Crowe Lake, shopping opportunities, restaurants, etc.
July 22nd
Deputy Mayor Stevens and I unveiled a plaque at the Splash Pad, dedicating the Splash Pad to the memory of Nathan Runions. Nathan was a student of Sacred Heart of Jesus Elementary School and he passed away in his 16th year. Nathan had participated with a youth group in fund raising for the construction of the splash pad. Thank you to Nathan's family, friends and teachers for attending the dedication and sharing memories.
July 24th
Tonia Bennett, CAO, and I met with Connor Dorey, the new CAO for Hastings County, and a staff member to provide input to the County in the development of a County Strategic Plan. They are meeting with all 14 member municipalities to solicit advice and input that reflects our priorities and vision for the future of the County and how the County can serve the local level that permits the municipality to develop their businesses, improve efficiencies through accessing county services and support communities through tourism and marketing. There will be a draft produced and reviewed with all municipalities. I want to thank Connor for reaching out and personally visiting Marmora to familiarize himself with our staff and facilities.
In the afternoon, I had a telephone meeting with Dr. Payman regarding various issues with the doctor recruitment incentive plan and his interest in the Community, Safety and Wellbeing Plan.
July 25th
The Personnel Committee met to discuss various personnel issues in preparation for a report to Council.
July 26th
I attended the office regarding a planning application and to sign documents. I had conversation with stake holders regarding the food bank.
July 27th
I attended the Hastings Prince Edward Board of Health to discuss ongoing union negotiations and to sign cheques.
In the afternoon, I had the honour of presenting a new business certificate to Marmora Retreat. Brendan Riley, Chivaune and their three children were there to receive the certificate. Councillors Jane and Eric attended, County representatives, Don DeGenova, Andrew and Christine were present, and MP Shelby Kramp Neuman congratulated the family on their new business. Essentially, they are operating an AirBnB that can accommodate small events such as weddings, corporate meetings, or family gatherings. The property is beautiful and the accommodations are spacious and inviting. Welcome to our new business and we wish you success in your future endeavours.
July 31st
Tonia and I met with Mary Stuart, Family Health Team, and toured the Marmora Medical Centre. Dr. Sinton is moving into the apartment at the end of August. Together, we identified maintenance and repairs needed at the facility. We toured other facilities and recorded various issues to be addressed.