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TOWNSHIP OF ESSA CONSENT AGENDA

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 19,2014

A -ITEMS RECEIVED AS INFORMATION

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Minutes of the Alliston and Area Physician Recruitment Committee meeting of November 21,2013.

Correspondence from the County of Simcoe: a) January 28, 2013 - Essa Resolution Regarding Recognition of the Nottawasaga

River as a Navigable Waterway b) January 28,2014 - County of Simcoe 10 Year Affordable Housing and

Homelessness Prevention Strategy Working Group c) February 5, 2014 - local Municipal Consideration of the Title of County Councillor on

Municipal Ballot

Email from211SimcoeCountydatedJanuary29.2014. re : Cultural Competency learning Symposium (CClS) - Save the Date.

Correspondence from the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority dated January 31 , 2014, re: NVCA 2014 Municipal levy.

Media Releases from the County of Simcoe: a) January 30, 2014 - County of Simcoe Ranked Seventh in Waste Diversion b) January 31,2014 - Georgian College Joins Efforts to Complete Simcoe County

Regional Food Distribution Hub Feasibility Study

Media Releases from the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority (NVCA): a) February 6, 2014 - Outdoor Fun for Kids of All Ages at the Tiffin Centre's Family

Day Event b) New Funding to Improve On-Farm Wetlands and Streams

Correspondence from Russ Powers, President of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO):

a) January 31 , 2014 - Email from AMO President re: AMO President's letter to OPP Policing Communities

b) February 7,2014 - OPP Policed Communities: Update 1

Email from the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) dated January 31,2014, re: AMO Report to Members - January Board Report 2014.

Correspondence from the Ministry of Consumer Services dated February 4, 2014, re: Feedback on Proposals - Regulation of Propane Transfer Facilities in Ontario.

p. 31 10. Correspondence from the Corporation of the United Townships of Head, Clara and Maria dated February 10, 2014, re: Resolution to Province - Opposition to Mandatory On-Site Septic System Inspections.

p. 35 11. Correspondence from the Township of Greater Madawaska dated February 7, 2014, re: OPP Proposed New Billing Model.

p. 37 12. Email from Rick Philbin, Superintendent, Commander, Municipal Policing Bureau, dated February 11, 2014, re: OPP Municipal Policing Update - OPP Internet Website (www.opp.ca).

Consent Agenda February 19, 2014

p. 38 13. Invitation from the County of Simcoe, re : Municipal Challenge - Warden 's Bonspiel in Support of the Georgian Village Fundraising Campaign.

p. 40 14. Correspondence from the City of Barrie, re: Notice of Final Approval- Official Plan Amendment No. 24.

p. 41 15. Invitation from Ontario Farmland Trust to attend 10th Annual Farmland Forum 2014 on March 7, 2014 (Guelph).

p. 43 16. Application submitted by Friends of the Utopia Mill to the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food for Funding Initiative under the Local Food Fund.

B - ITEMS RECEIVED AND REFERRED TO SERVICE AREA FOR ACTION

None to be presented.

C -ITEMS RECEIVED AND REFERRED TO SERVICE AREA FOR REVIEW AND REPORT TO COUNCIL

None to be presented.

2

Minutes Alliston & Area Physician Recruitment Committee Meeting

8:30 a.m. Thursday November 21,2013 Township of Adjala - Tosorontio Administration Centre

Attendance: Aileen Dresser (Chair), Dr. Nigel Gripper, Councillor Lynn Dollin, Ralph Braden, Rosalba Braden, Leo Losereit, Kathryn Mooij , Larry Keogh, Councillor Keith White, Bev Nix, Zanne Cantin, Pamela Belsham, David McLeish, Councillor 1. J. Paul Whiteside, Councillor Ron Henderson and Robin Brown (Minutes)

Regrets: Krista Morris-Tomini, Mayor Tom Walsh and Olga Les

Welcome

Aileen Dresser opened the meeting at 8:33 a.m. Congratulations were extended to Rosalba Braden. Rosalba received the Newcomer Award at the County of Simcoe's inaugural Newcomer Recognition Awards ceremony. The awards are held to recognize residents and organizations that are improving the lives of newcomers to the county.

1. Approval of Agenda: 2013-11-01 Moved by 1.1. Paul Whiteside

Seconded by Nigel Gripper Motion to approve the Agenda Carried

2. Declaration of Conflict ofInterest None declared

3. Minutes of the Meeting held August 15, 2013 2013-11-02 Moved by Zanne Cantin

Seconded by Ron Henderson Motion that the minutes be accepted Carried

Minutes of the Meeting held October 16, 2013 2013-11-03 Moved by Larry Keogh

Seconded by Rosalba Braden

4. Action Item Review:

Motion that the minutes be accepted with correction to the amount on Motion 2013-11-0 I. Carried

Meeting was held to outline the proposal to recruiter.

S. Correspondence: In: Sept. Request for Expression of Interest/Intent regarding a vacant building in Angus Out: Aug. Invitations to Mayors for Appreciation Event

\ Page 1 of3

In:

Sept. Request to Rural Ontario Medical Program for Rural Medical Week Expense reimbursement

Oct. Thank you to OMA, Essa Twp and Scotiabank re appreciation event Nov. Email from Krista: Regrets, No report from hospitality. The committee is still looking for a chair for the hospitality committee.

The committee welcomed Doctors Wong and Parmar who have recently joined our community. They are both from urban centres and love the small town feel and noted that they were made to feel welcome from the moment they arrived. They were both very appreciative of the AAPRC efforts. Both doctors will work in family medicine as well as hospitalists at SMH.

6. Physician Recruitment Coordinator Report:

7.

See attached report

HFO site has been updated and several expressions of interest have been received.

A discussion was held regarding the development charges act. Healthcare is not a part of this act and it was suggested that a meeting be held with key people in order to provide our concerns. Kate and Aileen agreed to attend a meeting with a coalition of the surrounding communities to discuss development charges. A request to the Province to consider changes to the act should be initiated as well.

2013-11-04 Moved by Leo Losereit Seconded by Keith White Motion that the information from the recruiters report of November 21 be reviewed by the Marketing Committee for consideration of release to the general public. Carried

It was suggested that the next time the Ministers gather that we submit a request for deputation to any minister

Sub- Committees: a) Financial: Zanne reviewed the financials. b) Hospitality:

nla c) Marketing / Communications:

nla

d) Strategic Planning: All members are asked to consider positions for the committee for 2014. Due to a potential conflict of interest the Chair may be resigning in June so a replacement will be required. Strategic planning will possibly meet on December 5, Dr. Gripper will advise.

8. New Business: Review discussion notes from October 16th and identify action items.

Page 2 of3

Chairs of committees please email your report one week prior to the meeting date for inclusion in theA' monthly package. This will save considerable time during the meeting.

Kathryn will be out of the office effective December 18. Ralph and Rosalba will assist while she is away.

9. Next Meeting Date: December 12, 2013

10. Adjournment: 2013-11-05

Action Items:

Moved by Pam Belsham Motion to adjourn at 10:18 a.m. Carried

1. Kathryn to provide a list of Doctors in the area and their locations.

2. Sub committee chairs to create budgets for 2014 send drafts to Larry and Zane

3. Ron to ask the Essa Township staff to arrange for deputation with the Minster of Health.

4. New ideas and pictures are always needed for FB. Please forward to Leo.

Page 3 of3

County of Simcoe County Clerk 's Department 1110 Highway 26, Midhurst, Ontario LOL l XO

Main Line (705) 726-9300 Toll Free 1-866-893-9300 Fax (705) 725-1285 simcoe.ca

TOWNSHIP OF ESSA

January 28, 2014

Ms. Bonnie Sander, Clerk Township of Essa 5786 County Road 21 Utopia, ON LOM no

Dear Ms. Sander:

FEB 0 5 2014

RECEIVED

Re: Resolution regarding Recognition of the Nottawasaga River as a Navigable Waterway

Please be advised that your correspondence dated December 12, 2013 was reviewed by Council Committee of the Whole at its meeting held January 14, 2014.

At its session on January 28, 2014, County Council received your letter for information.

Thank you for bringing this matter to Council 's attention.

Yours truly,

d~ Brenda Clark County Clerk

Icam

SlMcof~ 1

January 28, 2014

Mayors and Council of

County of Simcoe Office of the Warden 1110 Highway 26, Midhurst, Ontario LOL 1 XO

County of Simcoe Municipalities

Mayors and Council of the Cities of Barrie and Orillia

Dear Mayor and Council:

Main Line (705) 726 9300 Toll Free 1 8668939300 Fax (705) 725 1285 Web: simcoe.ca

RE: County of Simcoe 10 Year Affordable Housing and Homelessness Prevention Strategy Working Group

At the County Council session held January 28, 2014, Council approved a recommendation from the Committee of the Whole to adopt a 10 year affordable housing and homeless ness prevention strategy for the County of Simcoe.

At the same session, Council approved recommendations regarding the membership of a working group to be established to take the lead role in developing and overseeing an implementation plan for the consideration of Committee and Council that will achieve the objectives of the strategy and include detailed timelines.

The following are the recommendations related to the establishment of the 10 Year Affordable Housing and Homelessness Prevention Strategy Working Group:

and

"THAT municipal representatives to the working group be selected based on geographic areas of the County of Simcoe and six non-municipal members be selected based on expertise rather than geographic location."

"THAT the Mayors and Deputy Mayors of the geographic regions, including the Cities of Barrie and Orillia, identified within Item CCW 14-024 be requested to put forward the name of a representative, by February 28, 2014, to represent each of those regions on the Working Group."

The six geographic areas approved for the structure of the Working group, are North Simcoe, South Simcoe, East Simcoe, and West Simcoe, as well as the cities of Barrie and Orillia.

.. .12

OOW-003-COl

Mayors and Deputy Mayors Simcoe County Municipalities Mayors of Barrie and Orillia January 28, 2014 Page 2

The geographic regions are defined as follows: • North Simcoe municipal representative would represent the towns of Midland,

Penetanguishene and the townships of Tay and Tiny. • South Simcoe municipal representative would represent the towns of Bradford West

Gwillimbury, Innisfil and New Tecumseth and the townships of Essa and Adjala­Tosorontio.

• West Simcoe municipal representative would represent the towns of Collingwood and Wasaga Beach and the townships of Clearview and Springwater.

• East Simcoe municipal representative would represent the townships of Oro-Medonte, Ramara and Severn.

• City of Barrie municipal representative • City of Orillia municipal representative.

A copy of Item CCW 14-024, the document that includes the full 1 0 year Affordable Housing and Homelessness Prevention Strategy document, is enclosed for your reference.

We would appreciate it if you would collaborate with the municipalities within your geographic region noted above in order to put forward the name of a person who will represent your collective area on the working group. Your representative may be an elected official or a senior staff member.

We kindly ask that you give this matter your consideration and submit the name of a representative for your area to the County of Simcoe Clerk's Office by February 28, 2014.

Thank you for your participation in this in itiative.

Yours truly,

-6;#~ Cal Patterson Warden

C: Clerks of Simcoe County Municipalities T. Talon, General Manager of Social and Community Services C. Kytayko, Director of Social Housing

To:

Section:

Item Number:

Meeting Date:

Subject:

Recommendation:

COUNTY OF SIMCOE

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE

Human Services - Social Housing

CCW 14-024

January 14, 2014

County of Simcoe 10-Year Affordable Housing and Homelessness Prevention Strategy-Amended

THAT the revised document titled Our Community 10-Year Affordable Housing and Homelessness Strategy, attached as Schedule 3 to Item CCW 14-024, be approved;

AND THAT direction be provided to staff, with respect to the composition of the Working Group as detailed in Item CCW 14-024.

Executive Summary:

On June 25, 2013, Simcoe County Council approved in principle, Our Community 10-Year Affordable Housing and Homelessness Prevention Strategy. The strategy was then submitted to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing for review and comment.

On November 14, 2013, a special meeting of Council was held to evaluate the 10-Year Affordable Housing and Homelessness Strategy and make modifications as deemed appropriate by Council. As a result of that meeting, staff was directed to incorporate directions, priorities, actions and related matters as discussed by Council , into the draft 10-Year Affordable Housing and Homelessness Prevention Strategy for consideration and final approval by Council in January 2014.

Staff was also requested to prepare a report for Council in January 2014 outlining options for the composition of the working group.

Item CCW 14-024 details the changes made to the 10-Year Affordable Housing and Homelessness Prevention Strategy as a result of the November 14th meeting, and provides options for the Working Group as requested.

.,

A2J0January 14, 2014 Committee of the Whole CCW 14-024 Page 2

Background/Analysis/Options:

On June 25, 2013, Simcoe County Council approved in principle, Our Community 10-Year Affordable Housing and Homelessness Prevention Strategy. The Strategy was then submitted to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing for review and comment.

As per Item CCW-13-111 (November 2013), feedback on the Strategy was sought via a survey and five open houses and a summary of the comments received from all sources was summarized for consideration by Council at its special meeting on November 14, 2013.

The outcome of the day resulted in a reaffirmation of the moving forward model , and staff direction to make modifications to the Strategy as summarized in Schedule 1. In addition, it is the understanding of staff that the target identified in the Moving Forward model of 2,685 is to be reviewed in two years time.

All changes and additions to content within the Strategy were recorded, and may be reviewed in Schedule 2.

An updated version of Our Community 10-Year Affordable Housing and Home/essness Strategy is attached as Schedule 3.

In addition to modifying the Strategy as directed, staff was requested to outline options for the composition of the working group that will develop action plans to implement the Strategy.

It was the understanding of staff that the originally proposed Working Group composition , in which each lower-tier municipality and the cities of Barrie and Orillia would appoint an elected official or senior staff member to be responsible for liaising with the Working Group, would result in too large of a group. As a result, two alternative options are outlined below for consideration by Council.

Option 1: Centralized Working Group

One option for the configuration of the Working Group is a centralized structure, comprised of municipal partners (elected officials and senior staff), as well as community representatives from the public, private and non-profit sectors.

Ideally, this group would not exceed twelve members; this is the size of group proven most successful for effective decision-making as suggested by OrgCode Consulting Inc., at the November 14, 2013, special meeting of Council.

To ensure county-wide representation and better understanding of the diverse needs of communities across Simcoe County, municipal representation on the Working Group should be inclusive of urban and rural, as well as regional. For tailored solutions to local challenges, municipal representatives should liaise, where applicable, with local Housing Committees and the municipalities they represent.

Additionally, membership on a Centralized Working Group should include representatives from the public, private, and non-profit sectors; these representatives would ideally present from larger organizations working county-wide in scope, or sector associations operating county-wide, to ensure that input sought and information disseminated is done so county-wide.

~J=an~u~a~~~1~4~'22~01~4~ __________ ~C~0~m~m~it=te~e~0~f~th~e~~~0~le~C~C~VV~14~-~02~4~ ______________ ~p~a~g~e~3 __ ~-c

Municipal representatives could be selected in one of two ways: Council may wish to have nominations come forward for municipal representatives for municipalities in the North , South, East, and West, as well as the cities of Barrie and Orillia. Alternatively , Council could appoint members from County Council to participate on this Working Group. It is further recommended that a member of Council be elected or appointed to chair the Working Group.

Frequency of meetings: it is anticipated that initially monthly meetings would be required to ensure effective development of an implementation plan. County staff from Social and Community Services, as well as the Planning and Finance Departments would provide resources to support the Working Group; it is anticipated that the current staffing model is sufficient to support this working group model.

The size and demographics of a Centralized Working Group will allow it to effectively achieve quorum, engage in focused discussions, and reach consensus on action items in a timely manner. Additionally, a Centralized Working Group will be able to develop a unified approach; providing consistency and inclusivity for residents county-wide.

Although composition of a Centralized Working Group would include municipal representatives from each of the six areas identified above; who would be responsible for liaising with the municipalities they represent, as well as any housing committees in their area, it does not include direct representation from all sixteen member municipalities.

Option 2: Sub-Regional Committees under a Centralized Steering Committee

This approach would see the establishment of a number of sub-regional committees that would inform a Centralized Steering Committee. Ideally the membership for the sub-regional committees would consist of no more than twelve members, and would include elected officials and/or senior municipal staff, as well as representatives from the public, private, and non-profit sectors that can best represent their sub-region. It is recommended under this model that sub-regions be developed for North, South , East, and West Simcoe, as well as the cities of Barrie and Orillia.

North Simcoe: This sub-regional committee could consist of representatives from the towns of Midland and Penetanguishene, and the townships of Tay and Tiny.

West Simcoe: This sub-regional committee could consist of representatives from the towns of Collingwood and Wasaga Beach, and the townships of Clearview and Springwater.

East Simcoe: This sub-regional committee could consist of representatives from the townships of Oro-Medonte, Ramara and Severn.

South Simcoe: This sub-regional committee could consist of representatives from the towns of Bradford West-Gwillimbury, Innisfil, and New Tecumseth and the townships of Essa, Adjala­Tosorontio.

City of Barrie: This sub-regional committee could mirror the above composition, as appropriate for the City of Barrie. (Alternatively, the Town of Innisfil and/or Township of Essa could be included in this sub-regional committee) .

City of Orillia: This sub-regional committee could mirror the above composition, as appropriate for the City of Orillia. Alternatively, Orillia could be included in the East Simcoe sub-regional committee, which would result in only 5 sub-regional committees)

Rz,Qnuary 14, 2014 Committee of the Whole CCW 14-024 Page4

Under the sub-regional committee structure it is recommended that each municipality nominate an elected official or senior staff representative to sit on the appropriate sub-regional committee; and that each committee appoint one of its municipal representatives as chair; to also be a member of the Centralized Steering Committee.

Membership on the Centralized Steering Committee could include representatives from the public, private, and non-profit sectors; these representatives would ideally present from larger organizations working county-wide in scope, or sector associations operating county-wide, to ensure that input sought and information disseminated is done so county-wide. Ideally, this committee would exceed no more than 12 members. It is further recommended that a member of Council be elected or appointed to chair the Centralized Steering Committee.

Frequency of meetings: It is anticipated that initially monthly meetings would be required to ensure effective development of an implementation plan. County staff from Social and Community Services, as well as the Planning and Finance Departments would provide staff resources to support this model, however, with five or six sub-regional committees; in addition to the Centralized Steering Committee this could pose a challenge with respect to County staff resources.

The sub-regional model supports involvement from all municipal partners and would be well positioned to develop locally tailored implementation plans, however, some municipalities identified within this model may already have a housing committee of their own and may not be interested in restructuring their resources to fit this model.

Next Steps:

Staff are requesting that direction be provided with respect to the two options provided above. Additionally, should Option 2 be selected, staff are seeking direction as to whether five or six sub­regional groups should be supported, and whether the Town of InnisfillTownship of Essa should be included in the South Simcoe sub-regional committee, or included with the City of Barrie to form a Central sub-regional committee.

Financial and Resource Implications:

The Working Group will be responsible for identifying financial and resource implications related to the implementation of the Strategy which will be forwarded to County Council for consideration

Relationship to Corporate Strategies:

This Item is related to Council 's 2013 Strategic Direction:

Growth Related Service Delivery: Create and strengthen partnerships with key stakeholders to support communities through the delivery of sustainable services.

Specifically, the Social and Community Services strategiC initiative: • To develop a 10 year housing and homelessness plan .

\0

January 14, 2014 Committee of the Whole CCW 14-024 PageS R2b Reference Documents:

• Our Community 10-Year Affordable Housing and Homelessness Prevention Strategy • CCW 13-111

Attachments:

Schedule 1 -Summary of Amendments and Key Directions to the Affordable Housing and Homelessness Strategy -}-

Schedule l.pdf

Schedule 2 -Changes Applied to Our Community 10-Year Affordable Housing and Homelessness Prevention Strategy document.

EIII }..

Schedule 2,pdf

Schedule 3 -Our Community 10-Year Affordable Housing and Homelessness Prevention Strategy, December 2013 (amended) .

iEIII "L

Schedule 3,pdf

Prepared By: Brittany Doner, Project Consultant, Social and Community Services

Approvals: Cathy Kytayko, Director, Social Housing Terry Talon, General Manager, Social and Community Services Trevor Wilcox, General Manager, Corporate Performance Mark Aitken, Chief Administrative Officer

\\

Date December 18, 2013 December 20, 2013 January 1, 2014 January 1, 2014

February 5, 2014

County of Simcoe Office of the Warden 1110 Highway 26 Midhurst. Ontario LOL 1 XO

Mayor and Council Member Municipalities

Main Line (705) 726-9300 Toll Free 1 (866) 893-9300 Fax (705) 725-1285 simcoe.ca

RE: Local Municipal Consideration of the Title of County Councillor on Municipal Ballot

At its meeting held January 29, 2014, Simcoe County Council approved the following recommendation of the Governance Committee:

" ... THAT the following consent item, having been given due consideration by the Governance Committee, be received;

AND THAT the Warden be requested to w~lte to the Mayor and Council of each member municipality requesting that they give consideration to Including the title "County Councillor" next to the positions of Mayor and Deputy Mayor on the municipal ballot.

3. GOV 13-021 - County Councillor Designation on Municipal Ballots and County Information In Candidate'S package"

To assist your Council with this matter, the following provides some context as to why this request is before you for consideration.

In 2010, the County of Simcoe carried out a review of its governance structure, facilitated in part by The Berkeley Consulting Group. The report arising from that review, entitled The "Simcoe Governance Review Final Report" recommended, among other things, that the County Councillor designation be added to the municipal ballots as a mechanism to address in part comments of stakeholders regarding lack of knowledge and recognition of the County, particularly relating to representation on County Council. County Council wanted to ensure that the voting public, and frankly the candidates for these positions themselves, are aware of the County services which the Mayor and Deputy Mayor are responsible for the governance of when elected , as the scope and scale of these responsibilities is significant.

County Council recognizes that under the Municipal Elections Act, municipal clerks are granted broad authority to provide for those matters or procedures associated with municipal elections that are not otherwise provided for in an Act or regulation. As such, the intent of this resolution is not meant to interfere with those processes at all.

· . .12

\'l.

~c. Mayor and Council/Member Municipalities Page 2

The request before you is intended to bring to your attention the provisions contained within the Municipal Act, under Section 220, which authorizes a municipality to change the titles for its head of council and other members of Council. It is our understanding that in order for the title of "County Councillor" to appear next to the position of Mayor and Deputy Mayor on the municipal ballot, a change to the titles of such positions would be necessary and would allow the municipal Clerks the ability to do so unhindered, provided local Councils were favourable to this suggestion which is intended to better inform the voters and candidates of responsibilities.

In summary, the resolution (above) is requesting that your Council give consideration to changing the titles of the positions of Mayor and Deputy Mayor to include the additional title of "County Councillor", pursuant to the provisions of the Municipal Act, in order that the title of Council Councillor could therefore also appear on the municipal ballot (e.g. Mayor/County Councillor; Deputy Mayor/County Councillor) .

Thank you for your consideration of this matter.

Yours truly,

Cal Patterson Warden

Bonnie Sander

From:

Sent: Subject: Attachments:

211 Simcoe County <211SimcoeCounty@communityconnection.ca> January-29-14 4:35 PM Cultural Competency learning Symposium - learning Together, Growing Together CClS Save the Date.pdf

The Simcoe County Local Immigration Partnership Human Services Sub-Council will be hosting a

Cultural Competency Learning Symposium; Learning Together, Growing Together

Tuesday, March 18th, 2014

Holiday Inn Barrie, Hotel and Conference Centre

The Learning Symposium will highlight local lessons about diversity and inclusion to enhance service delivery and organizational approaches for immigrant clients in Simcoe County.

The Learning Symposium features Keynote Speakers, Workshops, a Newcomer Panel, Exhibits and a Luncheon. There is no Registration Fee - SPACE IS LIMITED; so when you receive your Registration Package, make sure to register and select the Workshops you would like to attend by the deadline.

Please refer to the attached flyer. If you have any questions or would like more information regarding the Cultural Competency Learning Symposium; Learning Together, Growing Together, please call us at (705) 722-3132 Extension 1421 .

Please do NOT reply to this e-mail, as the e-mail address is meantfor olltgoing only. /fYOIi no longer wish to receive these c-ma;1 announcementsJrom Community Connection Co/lingwoodp/ease do one ofthefoltowing:

1. E-mail back to in(o@communityconnecUon co wi/h your c-rnail address, and say yOu wish (0 be removedfrom receiving Community Broadcast Announcements

2. Phone (705) 444-0040 ext 226 wilh your c-rnail address, and say you wish to be removedfrom receiving Community Broadcast AnnOllncements 3. Fax (705) 445-1516 with your c-mai/ address, and say YO" wish 10 be removedfrom receiving Community Broadcast Announcements

Community Connection is a Registered Charity #//886 8/99 RROOOI. The charge required 10 send these bulletins via broadcastfax or e-mail helps to support/he cost of Ollr 21 J service -- afree, 2417 community helpline. Call (705) 444-0040 Ext. 238for any filrlher information on sending a broadcast

ij\

," • 4 oN'T"

~ ,,, I COMMUNITY PROFILE' " DIVERSIFYING EMPATHY •

~'SERVICE DELIVERY C ELEBRATE "II.. ., UNDERSTANDING DEMOGRlIPHICS ."

TRANSLATION/BESTPRACTICES , 'I NT E R P RETATI 0 N MULTI-CULTURAL PERSPECTIVES _ ~ G)..(JRGANIZATIONAL CHANGE

KNOWLEDGE INTEG RATE ACCEPT

SAVE THE DATE CULTURAL COMPETENCY LEARNING SYMPOSIUM

LEARNING TOGETHER, GROWING TOGETHER

Tuesday, March 18, 2014 Holiday Inn Barrie Hotel and Conference Centre

Barrie, Ontario

I~ Better Communities \.:~ THROUGH PARTNERSHIPS

FLmdedby: F~par:

•-*-. Otlzenship and Cltoyennele et ...,.. Immigration Canada Immigration Canada

-t;I

W~inq together

Simcoe M"slIDka Worldwce

Deniopment ~rd

COIJNTYOF ~

SIMCOE A, ~-=­w ... .,....G...I~ ....

~

M ember Municipalities

Adjala-Tosorontio

Amaranth

Barrie

The Blue Mountains

Bradford-West Gwillimbury

Clearview

Collingwood

Essa

Grey Highlands

Inn isfil

Melancthon

Mono

Mulm ur

New Tecumseth

Oro-Medonte

Shelburne

Springwater

Wasaga Beach

Watershed Counties

Dufferin

Grey

Simcoe

Member of

@£ ~ Conservation O NTARIO N~w,~ Ch''''pjOllI

January 31, 2014

Mayor Terry Dowdall & Council The Township of Essa 5786 County Rd. 21 Utopia, Ontario LOM 1T0

Dear Mayor Dowdall & Council:

Re: NVCA 2014 Municipal Levy

flY TOWNSHIP OF ESSA

FEB 03 2014

r1ECEIVED

On January 10, 2014 the NVCA Board of Directors representing the best conservation interests of the 18 watershed municipalities approved the circulated 2014 NVCA budget with a unanimous vote.

The NVCA Board and staff look forward to implementing the 2014 Conservation Authority programs supported by the approved budget including:

• Private land stewardship and reforestation • Conservation Authority land, education and recreation • Flood forecasting and warning. • Municipal source water protection • Natural Hazard prevention and Natural Heritage protection via Planning

and Regulations • Environmental monitoring and preparation of watershed report cards • Providing the 18 NVCA municipalities with Natural Hazard prevention

and Natural heritage protection/restoration technical advice. • Implementing the NVCA Strategic Plan.

The approved budget will enable the NVCA, in partnership with our local Municipalities, and residents to continue to protect and restore the environment, reduce and or prevent flood and erosion hazards to property and persons, and continue to support the health of the local residents and the health of our local economy.

Celebrating 50 Years in Conservation 1960-2010

NOTIAWASAGA VALLEY CONSERVATION AUTHORITY Cent re for Conservat ion

John Hix Conservation Administration Centre ' &.llffin Conservation Area 8 195 8th Line Utopia, On LOM no Telephone: 705.424.1479 Fax: 7os.tWi lS Web: www.nvca.on.ca Email: admin@nvca.on.ca

Attached please find your 2014 municipal levy invoice, representing your apportionment share of the total NVCA levy as per the Conservation Authorities Act. Please forward this invoice to your appropriate staff for payment. Should you have any questions regarding the approved NVCA budget or associated conservation programs please contact me directly.

Thank you again for your ongoing support of the NVCA. I would like to also thank the NVCA Board Members for their continued governance, ensuring that the watershed conservation needs are best served.

Sincerely;

Wayne R. Wilson, B.Sc., CAO/Secretary-Treasurer

Copy : NVCA Board Member, Keith White & Michael Smith Municipal Clerk

\1

Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority 8195 Concession 8, Utopia, ON LOM 1T0

TEL (705) 424-1479 FAX (705) 424-2115

Website:www.nvca.on.ca

Member of

Conservation ONTARIO

Nalur.>! C h ,,..,,p;on_,

ESS001 Invoice To: Essa Township D,t., Jan. 31, 2014

lovo;",9555-316-10 5786 County Road 21 Utopia, ON. LOM ITO

Attention: Bonnie Sander, Clerk

Vok., 705-424-9770 F." 705-424-2367

E-mail :

The 2014 Budget was approved at the Nottawasaga

R,r",",., 20 14 Municipal Levy Department:

Property Location

Co unty:

Municipality:

Lot:

Co ncession :

911 :

Roll :

Valley Conservation Authority Board of Directors Meeting January 10, 2014, Matching Levy, Resolution 17,

110 120 150 3 10 400 420 430 460 630 66 1

Non Matching Levy, Resolution 18, under Sections 26 and 27 of the Conservation Authorites Act R.S.O. 1990

Essa Township Apportionment Percentage

Reforestation Healthy Waters Conservation Lands Planning and Regulations Engineering & Technical Services Environmental Services Flood Forecast & Warning Source Water Protection Tiffin Education Tiftin Centre Operations and Maintenance

$128,95 1.84 $273,9 13 .50 $161,650.48 $4 19,853.8 1 $190,083.13 $309,367.85 $192,023 .84

$0.00 $63,613.66

$282,419.33

6.7815%

$8,744.87 18,575.44 10,962.33 28,472.39 12,890.49 20,979.78 13,022. 10

0.00 4,3 13.96

19,152.27

Total 2014 Levy: $2,021,877.44 Your Share: $137,113.62

H.S.T. # 107787780

Payment Due

15March2014 $ 15June2014 $

15 September 20 14 $ 15 November 20 14 $

34,278.40 34,278.40 34,278.40 34,278 .42

SIMCOE~~ .... -:·;..·iiii;-Forlhr GrmlrrGood ~ •

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release County of Simcoe, Office of the Warden and CAO

II 10 Highway 26, Midhul"St, Ontario LOL I XO simcoe.ca

County of Simcoe ranked seventh in waste diversion

MidhurstiJanuary 3D, 2014 - The County of Simcoe continues to be among the very best in the province when it comes to diverting waste from landfills .

Ranking in the top 10 out of 230 municipalities around the province for the fourth straight year, the County of Simcoe received seventh place in the annual Datacall (Ontario's standardized waste reporting and calculation process) with a 57.65 per cent diversion rate, up from 56.9 per cent in 2011.

"The continued support and participation of our residents is key to maintaining the County's high level of diversion success," said County Warden Cal Patterson. "Our congratulations to other top-ranking waste diverters, including the City of Guelph, with the top diversion rate of 67.72 per cent."

Rob McCullough, Director of Solid Waste Management, says the results speak for themselves, but insists there is room for improvement. According to 2012 audit data, almost half of curbside garbage in the County of Simcoe comprises materials that could be diverted through existing programs. Data also shows that only 44 per cent of available curbside organics are being captured.

"From a larger blue box to successful mattress and asphalt shingle recycling programs, the County has provided the tools. Our residents have responded positively, resulting in increases to the amount of waste we divert," said McCullough. "There is a great opportunity for the County to build off our successes and improve participation in existing programs-most notably, green bin organics."

The County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia. Visit our website at simcoe. ca.

Allan Greenwood Director, Corporate Communications 705-726-9300 ext. 1230 Allan.GreenwQod@simcoe.ca

·30 -

Joe Mercer Communications Co-ordinator

705-726-9300 exl1035 Joe.Mercer@simcoe.ca

A'9rJ

SlMCOE~" GEORGIA N Joint Release

--~" •.• ;-for Iht Grwltr Good _ •

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

COllEGE County of Simcoe, Office of the Warden and CAO I 110 H ighway 26, Midhul"'St, Ontario lOL I XO

simcoe.ca

Georgian College joins efforts to complete Simcoe County Regional Food Distribution Hub Feasibility Study

MidhurstiJanuary 31,2014 - The County of Simcoe and regional stakeholder groups in the agriculture and economic development sectors have announced that Georgian College, known fa" leadership in applied research, will help lead the next phase of the Simcoe County Regional Food Dstribution Hub Feasibility Study.

The team of experts from Georgian College will conduct extensive research to understand the supply and demand response to the proposed Regional Food Distribution Hub. This information will then be reviewed to determine what model , if any, is appropriate for the County of Simcoe. Findings from phase two are expected to be available in Spring2014.

"Food and agriculture play an important role in our economy," said Warden Cal Patterson. "We look forward to continuing to work with industry stakeholders to find a long-term option to enhance local food distribution opportun~ies, grow Simcoe County's economy and support our food and agriculture sectors."

Georgian College President and CEO MaryLynn West-Moynes said Georgian is proud to playa role in this strategic initiative because of the importance of agriculture and agrHood production across Central Ontario.

"Georgian is working closely with the County of Simcoe on this Food Distribution Hub project for two reasons," said West-Moynes. "First, we believe that food and farming are strong contributors to the economic development of Simcoe County. Second, Georgian is in the process of developing a cluster of agriculture and agri-food programs to be delivered in Central OntariO, and we view this sector as a significant growth area for both Georgian and Simcoe County. This is an excellent fit."

Phase one of the study was led by the Simcoe County Federation of Agriculture and provided initial insight into potential opportunities in food distribution activities in the region .

The County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in add~ion to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia . Visit our webstte at simcoe. ca.

Georgian College fosters a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation, preparng students to become not only job seekers, but also job creators. Working together with industry and communtty partners, Georgian offers relevant, cutting-edge curriculum, quality work placements and co-op experiences. With more than 120 career-focused programs across seven locations in Central Ontario (Barrie, Midland, Muskoka, Orangeville, Orillia , Owen Sound and South Georgian Bay), Georgian serves 11,000 full-time students and 28,000 Cortinuing Education registrants annually.

Allan Greenwood Director, Corporate Communications 705-726-9300 ext. 1230 Allan.Greenwood@simcoe.ca

- 30 -

Collin Matanowitsch Communications Co-ordinator

705-726-9300 ext. 1430 Collin.Matanowitsch@simcoe.ca

Member Municipalities

Adja!a-To:,orontlo

Amaranth

Th!! BIlle MounlJins

8radfOtd-W(~t GwilJirniJury

Clearvi(;\v

Collingwood

Essa

lnnisfil

Mel.lnrthon

Mono

Nuw Th:wnscth

Oro·Mcdonte

Gr~y Highlands

Shelbume

SpringWJter

W.lsaga Beach

Watershed Counties

Slmco(~

Dufferi"

Crey

Member of

Conservation ONTARIO l'iu~'lII~

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OUTDOOR FUN FOR KIDS OF ALL AGES AT THE TIFFIN CENTRE'S FAMILY DAY EVENT

Feb. 6, 2014, Utopia, Ontario - Come enjoy a day of outdoor activities at the Tiffin Centre for Conservation's Family Day Fun event on Monday, February 17, 2014. This family-friendly event runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The all-inclusive admission is only $5 per person, with children 5 and younger free.

Now in its sixth year, Family Day at the Tiffin Centre promises lots to do for kids of all ages. Bring your skates and helmet and take a spin on the pond. Explore 17 kilometres of looped trails on your cross-country skiS, or tryout other traditional winter activities like snowshoeing and kick-sledding. Adopt a maple syrup bucket and learn more about the Tiffin Centre's eco-friendly maple syrup operation. New this year, you can visit with re-enactors at an historiC War of 1812 winter camp or take in a demonstration by Grace, a Harris's Hawk.

If you get chilly, you can warm up with at the bonfire or enjoy a hotdog and hot chocolate available from local Scouts for $2.

The Tiffin Centre is located at 8195 Eighth Line (Essa), just west of Barrie. It is a four-season recreation destination with more than 300 acres of forest, meadow and wetlands. The Tiffin Centre is home to the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority's administrative centre, outdoor education program and Camp Tiffin summer day camp.

The Tiffin Centre is also the site of the annual Spring Tonic Maple Syrup Festival hosted by the Rotary Club of the Barrie and the NVCA. This year, Spring Tonic will be held April 5 and 6.

For more information about Family Day or any programs at the Tiffin Centre, contact the NVCA at 705-424-1479 or www.nvca.on.ca.

###

Media contact: Heather Kepran, Communications & PR Coordinator 705-424-1479 ext. 254 or hkepran@nvca .on.ca

Photo and caption (full-sized jpg file attached to this email): Skating on Papa Bear Pond is just one of the activities to try this Family Day at the Tiffin Centre.

About the NVCA: The Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority is a public agency dedicated to innovative watershed management that supports a healthy environment, communities and lifestyles. Through its programs, the NVCA protects, enhances and restores waterways, wetlands, forests and lands. www.nvca.on.ca

Conserving our Healthy Waters

NOTTAWASAGA VALLEY CONSERVATION AUTHORITY • Centre for Conserv,'ion John Hix ConservationAdmini~tr;'llion Centre . Tiff1n ConservalionArea • 8195 8th tine " Utopia, On LOM n()

Telephone: 705.424.1479 • Fax: :2115 • Web: 'NWw,nVCJ.on,C'l 1& Ernai l; ildrnin@nvca.on.c.J

Member Municipalities

Adjala-Tosorontjo

Amaranth

lhe Slut? Mount.lIns

Brddford·Weit Gwillimbury

(leflr'\ilt'w

Collingwood

Essa

Inn ism

Mcl .. ncthon

Mono

Mulmur

New Tccurmcth

Oro·Mt'donte

Grey Highlands

Shelburne

Springwtlu ....

W~s«ga BCilCh

Watershed Counties

SimcO('

Durferin

c,rl'Y

Member of

Conservation ONTARIO N<II"'.'~

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NEW FUNDING TO IMPROVE ON-FARM WETLANDS AND STREAMS

Feb. 10, 2014, Utopia, Ontario - Local farmers looking to improve streams and wetlands on their property are encouraged to apply for grants under the new Water's Edge Transformation (WET) Program. The Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority (NVCA) and the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association (OSCIA) are teaming up to deliver the program to benefit farmers in the Nottawasaga Valley watershed.

"We've seen through programs like the Environmental Farm Plan that farmers in our watershed are committed to environmental stewardship," said Shannon Stephens of the NVCA. "These additional funds will help farmers continue to put stewardship projects into practices that improve our sensitive streams and wetlands. "

Grants are available for a wide range of streamside projects, including fencing livestock from streams and wetlands, tree planting, installing eavestroughs on barns to divert water from livestock yards, and stream rehabilitation to reduce erosion.

"The WET Program offers more than just funding for environmental projects," said Stephens. "Farmers get free, one-on-one advice from a local watershed specialist, ensuring their projects will use the best management practices currently available."

Farmers applying for WET Program funding may combine multiple projects into one application. Applications for WET Program funding are being accepted until March 31, with projects to be completed by December 15, 2014.

The WET Program is one of several that offer grants to farmers looking to improve streams, wetlands or ponds on their property. The NVCA continues to welcome grant applications from famers and horse-owners with property in the Innisfil subwatershed, including land along the Beeton and Innisfil creeks. Grants under the Innisfil Creek Phosphorus Runoff Reduction Program may cover up to 90% of project costs, up to a maximum of $70,000 per project. Eligible projects include manure storage and collection systems, fencing livestock from streams, and other projects that help reduce phosphorus runoff to creeks.

Similarly, the Healthy Waters Grant Incentive Program provides landowners and community groups with funding and technical assistance for many types of environmental projects.

For more information on the WET Program contact Brad Carberry at OS CIA at 226-979-2465 or look under the program section of the OSCIA website, www .ontariosoilcrop.orq. For details on any of NVCA's landowner grants, including the WET Program, contact Shannon Stephens at 705-424-1479 ext. 239 or visit www.nvca.on.ca.

Conserving our Healthy Waters

NOTTAWASAGA VALLEY CONSERVATION AUTHORITY • Cenlre for Conserv.,ion John Hi. ConS(,rvalion Administration co, .aimn Conservalion Area 0 8195 Bth line • Ulopia, On LOM lTll

Telephone: 705.424.1479 • Fa)(.; . 115 . Web: .... ww.nvca.on.cn • Email: ildmin@nvt Ol.on .ca

# # #

Media contact: Heather Kepran, Communications & PR Coordinator 705-424-1479 ext. 254 or hkeoran@nvca.on.ca

About the NVCA: The Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority is a public agency dedicated to innovative watershed management that supports a healthy environment, communities and lifestyles. Through its programs, the NVCA protects, enhances and restores waterways, wetlands, forests and lands. www.nvca.on.ca

2 of 2

Bonnie Sander

From: Sent: To: Subject:

Follow Up Flag: Flag Status:

January 31, 2014

Dear Colleagues:

Greg Murphy February-04-14 4:02 PM Bonnie Sander FW: AMO President's Letter to OPP Policing Municipalities

Follow up Flagged

Hundreds of Ontario municipalities are concerned, and frustrated, with efforts to improve the fairness and transparency of the OPP's billing model. AMO's Board of Directors recognizes that OPP costs, and the rising cost of policing in general, are concerns for all municipalities. AMO believes that we all need to pull together and work together to approach this challenge from the strongest possible position.

To achieve this, AMO's Board met today and approved the creation of a new OPP Billing Steering Committee. This committee will represent the diversity of all OPP communities, and it will guide efforts to achieve a billing model that municipalities can live with.

The discussion among AMO's Board members captured some of the principles that can guide the AMO Steering Committee's work: • The government's and the OPP's approach is dividing municipalities. We must stand together. • A broad range of communities, including very small communities, must be represented on the Steering Committee. • Municipalities have tried to approach the problem in a way that works for the Ontario government and the OPP; it's time to demand greater appreciation from the government of municipal needs. • The OPP has tried to simplify a complex problem; municipalities need a comprehensive and transparent solution. • Some municipalities pay as little as $9 per household, while others pay more than $1 ,000 which is not seen as fair. • Residents in unorganized townships should be paying their fair share. • The model should mitigate cost increases for municipalities that face high tax increases. • The capacity of property taxpayers to adjust to sudden changes is limited.

AMO is also concerned that discussions about the billing model are shielding the Ontario Government and the OPP from the root issue, which is unchecked growth in policing costs. In addition to addressing how OPP costs are allocated, Ontario must address the need for greater efficiency, more cost effective approaches to policing whether own force or OPP, and changes to interest arbitration. All communities must have access to affordable and effective policing, now and in the future.

The AMO Steering Committee will be dedicated to on-going communications with the communities who purchase OPP services. Watch for updates.

Yours sincerely,

Russ Powers, AMO President on behalf of the AMO ~ of Directors

A .... ~of Municipalities Ontario Office of the President February 7,2014

opp Policed Communities: UPDATE 1

A week ago, AMO's Board of Directors directed the establishment of an OPP Billing Steering Committee. Its purpose is to look at the proposed OPP billing model, including objectives and outcomes that could be acceptable to the different interests of the municipal sector. It will also look at elements of the underlying matters that contribute to high policing costs and how these too might be improved. It will be up to the provincial government to accept or reject those recommendations.

In response to the communique sent last Friday about the Steering Committee's formation, AMO received many expressions of interest to volunteer for this Committee. The volume of volunteers who put their names forward displayed an overwhelming breadth and depth of concern for this issue. We are grateful and express appreciation to all who recently stepped forward. In addition, the Board wanted to invite a representative from the three sub-municipal groups (Mayors' Coalition, OPP Discussion Group and the Under 5,000 Group).

The Board directed that representatives come from all corners of the province with careful consideration to the diversity of interest, circumstance, region, knowledge and experience of each individual. All municipalities should be able to see themselves represented in the women and men who will be participating in these critical discussions.

Based on the Board's direction, the President has confirmed the following elected officials as members of the AMO OPP Billing Steering Committee:

Politis, Peter Vrebosch, Bill TBC McNamara, Gary White, Chris Canfield, Dave Spacek, AI Ron Nelson Barfoot, Alan Conn, David Marr, David Mertens, Peter Reid, Barb Reycraft, Doug Thompson, Linda

200 University Ave. Suite 801 Toronto. ON, M5H 3C6

Mayor Mayor TBC Mayor Warden Mayor Mayor Mayor Mayor Mayor Warden Mayor Reeve Mayor Mayor

www.amo.on.ca amo@amo.on.ca

Cochrane (Chair, Mayors' Coalition) East Ferris (Chair Under 5,000 Group) TBC (OPP Discussion Group) Tecumseh (Future of Policing AdviSOry Committee) County of Wellington Kenora Kapuskasing (FONOM) O'Connor Township Georgian Bluffs Seguin Township Elgin County Prince Edward County Minden Hills Southwest Middlesex Port Hope

Tet 416.971.9856 "lAD fax 416.971.6191

Toll Free in Ontario 877.426.6527

2

The first meeting of the Committee has been set for February 14, 2014 at AMO offices in Toronto. At the first meeting, the Committee will establish its work plan, how it will operate, what it will do and how it will communicate more broadly. Last week's communique to you generated some municipal feedback and ideas. We want to provide all municipalities the opportunity to submit ideas, including those they offered during the OPP's fall consultation or subsequent ideas. We have set up oppbillingsc@amo.on.ca as a dedicated e-mail for this Steering Committee.

The Board wishes the Steering Committee to move expeditiously on these matters and I hope that the Committee will be in a position to present public recommendations by end of March/early April. You should expect the next communique shortly after the Steering Committee's initial meeting.

Yours truly,

R.F. (Russ) Powers President

Bonnie Sander

From: Sent: To: Subject:

Greg Murphy February-04-14 4:03 PM Bonnie Sander FW: AMO Report to Members - January Board Report 2014

TO THE IMMEDIATE ATTENTION OF THE CLERK AND COUNCIL

January 31 , 2014

AMO Report to Members Highlights of the January 2014 Board Meeting

To keep members informed, AMO provides updates on important issues considered at regular AMO Board of Directors' meetings. Highlights of the January 2014 Board meeting include:

OPP Policing

The AMO Board of Directors established an OPP Billing Steering Committee. Its work will be focused on OPP billing and the common theme of unsustainable policing costs which unites all municipalities. The diversity of all OPP communities will be represented on the committee. It will guide municipal advocacy to provincial decisions on OPP billing. A separate e-mail from the AMO President on behalf of the Board will be sent to all municipalities which pay for the services of the OPP on this matter.

Contact: Matthew Wilson, Senior Advisor, email: mwilson@amo.on.ca. Ext. 323.

AMO Communications Plan

The Board considered AMO's 2014 Communications Plan. Highlights include: • A more prominent role for Board members, who serve as AMO's ears to municipal concerns and as key communicators; • A greater emphasis for faster and consistent communication across Ontario; and • Dedicated communications plans of designated priorities.

Contact: Brian Lambie, Principal, Redbrick Communications, e-mail: lambie@redbrick.ca

Ice Storm Impact Relief

While the existing provincial (Ontario Disaster Relief Assistance Program - ODRAP) and federal (Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements - DF AA) programs have proved indispensable, there are program gaps which hinder municipalities from recuperating costs related to response and recovery. The AMO Board has called for revised programs from the provincial and federal ministers responsible.

Members can bolster this ask by corresponding with the responsible Ministers: • The Honourable Linda Jeffrey, Ontario's Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing; and • The Honourable Steven Blaney, Federal Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness. In reviewing emergency preparedness plans, members may want to consider specifically what might not fall within the ODRAP or DF AA programs and provide these examples.

~ontact: Cathie Brown, Senior Advisor, email: cathiebrown@amo.on.ca. Ext. 342.

Blue Box Update

AMO and the City of Toronto are now jointly in arbitration with Stewardship Ontario on the Blue Box funding quantum for 2012 Blue Box operations to be paid out in 2014. The actual arbitration process starts in April and we are currently in preparation mode. The AMO Board was also advised that the Honourable Jim Bradley, Minister of the Environment, has convened a municipal-producer table to find common ground on Bill 91 , the Waste Reduction Act. Key AMO executive and board members involved in the waste diversion file are the municipal representatives. Further information on both of these items will be provided to members as it becomes available.

Contact: Monika Turner, Director of Policy, email: mturner@amo.on.ca. Ext. 318.

AMO's Support for FCM's "Fixing Canada's Housing Crunch" Campaign

The Board formally supported the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) "Fixing Canada's Housing Crunch" campaign. The aim is to urge the federal government to provide leadership on housing and to work with provinces and municipalities to develop a long-term, coordinated plan for housing.

Supporting the FCM national housing campaign signals to both the federal and provincial governments the importance placed by AMO and Ontario 's municipalities on finding solutions to Canada's and Ontario 's housing affordability issues. AMO' s President will write to both federal and provincial ministers indicating support for the campaign in the lead-up to the federal and provincial budgets. Visit the FCM website for more information about the "Fixing Canada's Housing Crunch" campaign. For information on how your municipality can adopt a resolution of support, visit the AMO website.

Contact: Michael Jacek, Senior Advisor, email: mjacek@amo.on.ca. Ext. 329.

LAS Update

2013 was a good year for the One Investment Program, with three-year annualized returns for the bond portfolio at 2.29%, universe corporate bond portfolio 3.49%, and equity portfolio 9.37%.

On March 26, 2014, LAS will hold an Asset Management Symposium that will provide guidance in developing Asset Management Plans (AMPs) and also help demonstrate how AMPs form the backbone of Council's long­term strategic decisions. New changes to the Gas Tax Fund (GTF) Agreement will make it easier for municipalities who have GTF monies that will not be spent immediately, to invest them for up to five years in the One Investment Program.

Contact: Nancy Plurnridge, President, email: nplurnridge@amo.on.ca. Ext. 324, or Jason Hagan, Program Manager, email: jhagan@amo.on.ca. Ext. 320.

2014 AMO Urban Symposium

AMO presents the 2014 AMO Urban Symposium "Connected Community" April 3 & 4, 2014 at the Waterloo Inn. Now in its seventh year of programming, this year's 1.5 day event will covers topics such as youth development, high-rise waste management, transit, child care, urban food and more.

Visit the AMO website www.amo.on.ca for complete details on the Urban Symposiwn and register today.

Ministry of Consumer Services

Public Safety Branch

Policy and Consumer Protection Services Division

777 Bay Street, 5th Floor Toronto ON M7A 2J3

Tel: (416) 326-8877

February 4, 2014

Dear Stakeholder:

Minlstere des Services aux consommateurs

Direction de la securite du public

Division des politiques et des services de protection du consommateur

777, rue Bay, 5e etage Toronto (Ontario) M7A 2J3

Tel: (416) 326-8877

('~ f :> vF Ontario

I am writing to advise you that the Ministry of Consumer Services, in cooperation with the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA), has developed proposals to refine the regulation of propane transfer facilities in Ontario. The proposals are posted on the Regulatory Registry for public consultation. You can review the proposals at: http://www.ontariocanada.com/registrv/view.do?posting Id= 15162&lang uage=en

The ministry welcomes your feedback on the proposals and ask that comments be provided by March 21,2014. The ministry will review all comments received during the consultation period prior to preparing regulatory amendments for government consideration.

The four proposals were developed with the input of a round table made up of representatives of the propane industry, fire services, and consumers. The proposals are designed to enhance safety and minimize burden on business. They are:

• Moving from annual inspections to risk-based inspections; • Setting minimum insurance requirements as a condition of licensing; • Aligning the decision making authority for Risk and Safety Management Plan

guidelines; and, • Simplifying the record of training requirement.

If you have any questions about the proposals or would like to meet with ministry staff to discuss them, please contact Mohamed Awad, Senior Policy Advisor, Ministry of Consumer Services, at (416) 326-8879 or by email atpropanepolicy@ontario.ca.

Thank you for your interest and feedback.

Sincerely,

Nicole Stewart Director, Public Safety Branch

c John Marshall, Director, Fuels Safety Program, TSSA

THE CORPORATION OF THE UNITED TOWNSHIPS OF

HEAD, CLARA & MARIA 15 Township Hall Road

STONECLIFFE, ONTARIO KOJ 2KO

Phone: (613) 586-2526 I Fax: (613) 586-2596 I E-mail: twpshcm@xplomet.com

Monday, February-l0-14

The Honourable Kathleen Wynne, Premier Legislative Building Queen's Park Toronto ON M7A lAl

Dear Premier Wynne

At the regular meeting held on Friday, October 25,2013, the Council of the United Townships of Head, Clara & Maria discussed and passed a resolution lobbying the provincial government to stop the roll out of mandatory on-site septic system inspections. Further Council requests that mandatory inspections only be required in known vulnerable areas adjacent to source water protection areas.

Council requests that the province sincerely consider the costs associated with such a program and ensure that any new regulations build in a funding mechanism as municipalities and property owners cannot continue to rely on the already strapped property tax base for additional provincially legislated programs and inspections.

Sincerely and on behalf of CounCil,

Melinda Reith Municipal Clerk

Enclosures: copy of resolution

cc: Hon. Linda Jeffrey, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Mr. John Yakabuski, MPP Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke Jim Hutton, CAO, County of Renfrew AMO - Association of Municipalities of Ontario County Municipalities for support

AIO}~j ~,.;;;.,~l THE CORPORATION OF THE UNITED TOWNSHIPS OF HEAD, CLARA & MARIA

Resolution No.:25/1 0/13/004

Moved by: _~;:m'4<~~1::::~_:Seconded by: _CJJJo.(.:..."',L-"-""'·lLt:=>'--__ _

WHEREAS the provincial government regularly make sweeping regulations and policies without giving appropriate consideration to specific locations or the effects on smaller municipalities and the rights of individuals:

AND WHEREAS government regulations now control and limit many property owner rights and privileges restricting more and more as time goes on;

AND WHEREAS the Council of the United Townships of Head, Clara & Maria does recognize that legislation is required to protect the environment from some who may not maintain their properties appropriately;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT this Council does hereby lobby the provincial government to stop the process of mandatory on-site septic system inspections and to continue to only require them in known vulnerable areas adjacent to source water areas;

AND FURTHER THAT should regular and routine inspections become mandatory across the province that the province builds into any regulation the corresponding funding to compensate property owners and the small muniCipalities who cannot continue to rely on the property tax base to meet the constant downloading of responsibility without equivalent funding;

AND FUR1TE THAT this resolution be circulated for supp~

Carried Defeated Reeve ~

Infonnation Regarding On-Site Sewage Systems Maintenance Inspections Page 1 of 3 AIO

[;>Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing

ABOUT I NEWSROOM I JOB OPPORTUNITIES I CONTACT US

You are here> Home> Your Mlnjstry > Ontario Building Code> Hot Topics> Information Regarding On-Site Sewage Systems Maintenance Inspections

Information Regarding On-Site Sewage Systems Maintenance Inspections

On-Site Sewage Systems Maintenance Inspections Implementation Materials

The Building Code (Ontario Regulation 350/06) was recently amended by Ontario Regulation 315/10 to establish and govern mandatory on-site sewage system maintenance inspection programs to be administered in certain areas by principal authorities, i.e., municipalities, health units and/or conservation authorities. The amendments also govern discretionary on-site sewage system maintenance inspection programs established by principal authorities.

These amendments help protect Ontario's drinking water and the natural environment, and support the implementation of the Clean Water Act, 2006 and the Lake Simcoe Protection Plan. The "in-force" date for many of these programs is January 1, 2011. The balance of the regulation, concern ing certain areas around the Lake Simcoe shoreline and watershed, comes into effect January 1, 2016.

To support implementation of these regulations, the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing has released inspection certificate forms for mandatory and discretionary inspection programs. These forms are to be issued by principal authorities and then completed and returned by third -party inspectors of on-site sewage systems. Principal authorities have the authority to deCide whether to accept third-party inspection certificates.

The ministry has also released an Order to Comply form to be used in the case that an on-site sewage system is found to be in violation of the Building Code. This form is similar to other Prescribed Orders and Orders to Comply already mandated for use by principal authorities and registered code agencies.

These forms are available on the Ministry website under Publications.

To assist principal authorities with implementation of the regulations, information regarding on-site sewage system maintenance inspections has been prepared for explanatory purposes. Th is document, developed jOintly with the Ministry of the Environment, describes a progressive audit approach to maintenance inspections for on-site sewage systems. Under this approach, initial inspections are designed to be non-intrusive tests and will generally avoid significant disturbance to the system and to the surrounding soil area. Where concerns are identified, further investigation may follow. This document has been prepared for explanatory purposes only and does not form part of the regulation.

This document is now availab le on the Ministry website under Publications.

Maps illustrating select areas in which maintenance inspection programs will not be required within five years of January 1, 2011 have been prepared. To view maps, see Lake Simcoe shoreline maps.

hnp://www.mah.gov.on.ca/Page9236.aspx l S/l 0/2013

A\t> Information Regarding On-Site Sewage Systems Maintenance Inspections Page 2 of3

Mandatory On-site Sewage System Maintenance Inspection Programs

Ontario Regulation 315/10 requires principal authorities to administer mandatory on-site sewage maintenance inspection programs within their areas of jurisdiction. The regulation defines the geographic areas where inspections of on-site sewage systems will be required and the timeframes within which inspections must be carried out. Inspections of on-site sewage systems will be required in the following areas:

• In areas located within 100 metres of the Lake Simcoe shoreline and within 100 metres of other lakes or ponds and permanent rivers or streams In the Lake Simcoe watershed. Maps illustrating certain mandatory areas for maintenance inspections along the Lake Simcoe shoreline are available.

• The mandatory Inspection program would also be required in parts of "vulnerable areas" located in source protection areas identified through the source protection planning process under the Clean Water Act, 2006. The "vulnerable areas" are in the process of being determined by local source protection committees and will be identified in Assessment Reports. These reports are to be approved by the Director of Source Protection Programs Branch of the Ministry of the Environment. The last Assessment Reports are due in December 2010, and anticipated to be approved in 2011. Inspections would be required in areas where on-site sewage systems subject to the BCA have been identified as a significant drinking water threat. For more information please refer to Drinking Water Source Protection page.

Inspections of on-site sewage systems must be carried out within the following timeframes :

• Inspections of on-site sewage systems located within 100 meters of certain portions of the Lake Simcoe shoreline would be required within five years of January 1, 2011 and every five years thereafter.

• Inspections of on-site sewage systems located within 100 metres of the balance of the Lake Simcoe shoreline and 100 metres of other lakes or ponds and permanent rivers or streams in the Lake Simcoe watershed, would be required within five years of January 1, 2016 and every five years thereafter.

• Inspections of on-site sewage systems located in "vulnerable areas" would be required within five years of January 1, 2011. Where the applicable assessment report or source protection plan is approved under the Clean Water Act after January 1, 2011, inspections would be required within five years of the report or plan's approval, and every five years thereafter.

Discretionary On-Site Sewage System Maintenance Inspection Programs

The regulation also governs discretionary on-site sewage maintenance inspection programs established by principal authorities. The regulation provides that these programs shall apply to all on­site sewage systems in the area affected by the program, and that an inspector shall inspect all sewage systems affected by the program.

Related Links • Certificate - Mandatory Sewage System Maintenance and Discretionary Inspection Program • Form - Order to Comply • Lake Simcoe shoreline maps • Information Regarding On-Site Sewage System Maintenance Inspections

hltp://www.mah.gov.on.ca/Page9236.aspx 15/ 10/2013

A THE TOWNSHIP OF

<£::S - GREATER MADAWASKA

February 7, 2014

Honourable Kathleen Wynne Legislative Building Queen's Park Toronto ON M7A 1A1

Re: opp proposed new billing model

Dear Premier:

Please be advised that at the regular Council meeting on January 29, 2014, the Township of Greater Madawaska passed the following resolution:

Resolution No. 022-14

Moved by Councillor Kierczak, seconded by Councillor Lehnhardt

WHEREAS the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) proposed new billing model for charging municipalities for policing services, starting in 2015;

AND WHEREAS the current billing model is a deployment model, in which cost recovery is based on percentage of detachment workload, actual detachment staffing levels, wages and benefits, and a cost recovery component for other expenditures, a model that has been in place for over 15 yea rs;

AND WHEREAS, the new methodology would charge each municipality a flat $260.00/household fee for the base costs related to providing police services, plus a variable charge for each call for service in that municipality. The rationale for this is that there is a base fixed cost for providing police services that must be borne by all participating municipalities, regardless of the number of calls for service that the OPP responds to in each municipality. The OPP have advised that 73% of their costs are fixed (i.e. base costs) and 27% are variable; AND WHEREAS, the actual specifics of the cost for the calls for service have not been released or calculated, the OPP has estimated that the average cost per household in Ontario for policing services, including both the base cost and the calls for service, would be approximately $369;

AND WHEREAS, this model would see the OPP costs for the Municipality of Township of Greater Madawaska increase from $312,094 in 2013 to $911,430, an increase of $599,336 or 192%;

.. ./2

1'.0 Box 180. 19 I'amell Street Cabbogie. ON KOJ 1 [-10 Phone: 6l3-752-2222 Fax: 613-752-26 17 ~ree: '1 -800-3-1-7-722-1- W\\'\\/ .greatcrmacLw.;aska.com

~,\ - 2 -

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council support the Township of Sequin resolution and agree this model is fundamentally flawed, unfair and inequitable;

AND FURTHERMORE, the Province of Ontario and Premier Wynne abolish the proposed new OPP Billing model in favour of a model that is equitable to all small, rural municipalities;

AND THAT FURTHERMORE this resolution be forwarded to the Hon. Kathleen Wynne, Premier of Ontario; the Hon. Madeleine Meilleur, Minister of Community Safety & Correctional Services; the Hon. John Gerretsen, Attorney General of Ontario; Bonnie Lysyk, Auditor General of Ontario; the Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM); the Association of Municipalities of Ontario; and all rural Ontario municipalities with a permanent population of 10,000 or less.

AND BE IT RUTHER RESOLVED THAT the Province of Ontario and Premier Wynne cannot allow this type of unfair treatment towards rural Ontario, and this funding model be scrapped immediately.

Trusting you will give this serious consideration.

Sincerely,

~~)t~ Allison HOltzhau~r J CAO Clerk-Treasurer

"Carried"

cc Honourable Madeleine Meilleur, Minister of Community Safety & Correctional Services Honourable John Gerretsen, Attorney General of Ontario Bonnie Lysyk, Auditor General of Ontario Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM) Association of Municipalities of Ontario All Rural Ontario Municipalities with a permanent population of 10,000 or less

Bonnie Sander

From: Sent: To:

Lisa Lehr February-11-14 11:07 AM Bonnie Sander

Subject: FW: opp Municipal Policing Update

From: OPP GHQ Municipal Policing Bureau (JUS) [mailto:opp.municipalpolicing@ontario.ca] Sent: Tuesday, February 11, 2014 10:11 AM To: OPP GHQ Municipal Policing Bureau (JUS); reception@newtecumseth.ca; Ikeenan@townshipadjtos.on.ca; Lisa Lehr; Subject: OPP Municipal Policing Update

Dear Municipal Stakeholders:

I am pleased to announce the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) internet site has been updated to include valuable information about OPP Municipal Policing. The following information can be found at www.opp.ca:

• Frequently Asked Questions about OPP Municipal Policing

• Video message on the latest updates on Municipal Policing

• OPP Municipal Policing Review Engagement Session Presentation October/November, 2013

• Frequently Asked Questions about Billing Review and Municipal Engagement

• Municipal Engagement Sessions: Executive Summary and Questions & Responses

• Municipal Consultations: Spring & Summer 2013 Focus Groups and Online Survey

• Summary of Online Survey Responses: December 1- 13, 2013

I have also written an editorial, "Five Things You Should Know About OPP M unicipal Policing", that will be distributed to the media in the near future.

I can assure you the OPP and the Ministry will continue to work diligently with municipal stakeholders to ensure effective, efficient and sustainable police service delivery in Ontario. We will also work towards the recovery of policing costs in a way that is fair and consistent for all who use OPP services.

Yours truly,

R.A. (Rick) Philbin Superintendent Commander, Municipal Policing Bureau

Georgian Village ~ taka LV ~4V1#A£dj

£11/dc1 LV q;~[;

* * * *

*

ItT.RDIN'S IIlINSPIEL

*

* * *

The County of Simcoe is issuing a challenge to our local municipalities:

Collect pledges in support of the Georgian Village Fundraising Campaign. The municipality that raises the most money

by March 14, 2014 will be crowned the winner. *Participation in the Bonspiel is not required.

For more information on this challenge, contact Margaret Thibide1if5-726-9300 ext. 1257

A\~ WARDEN'S BONSPIEL IN SUPPORT OF THE GEORGIAN VILLAGE FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN MARCH 19, 2014 PENETANGUISHENE CURLING CLUB

MUNICIPAL CHALLENGE

WARDEN'S BONSPIEL IN SUPPORT OF THE 6EORGIAN VILLAGE

R1NDRAISltlG CAMPAIGN

MUNICIPAL CHALLENGE PLEDGE FORM

Event name:

Contact name:

The event runs from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on March 19, 2014

---------------------

---------------------Work phone: _______ Home phone: ________ _

Mailing address: ---------------------City: Province: Postal Code:

Email:

Full Name

----- ------ ------

---------------------

Street Address Postal Pledges & City Code

Collected Please specify cash, cheque, Visa or

MC

Georgian Village cflt- t;,b, '" (!J.,,.,,.a.7

tD ",ttI,,- '1lflk1c

The City of CITY HALL

70 COLLIER STREET TEL. (705) 739-4208 FAX (705·739·4270

BARRIE PO Btbx.,4Pll ~;~;SHIP OF ESSA BARRIE, 0NT.t>:I\IO '

L4M \4T5

THE CORPORATION OF THE CITY OF BARRIE Planning Services Department

"Committed to Service Excellence"

FEB 03 2014

.' ,:.~ c: 'I\/ED \....-.f' . •

NOTICE OF FINAL APPROVAL - OFFICIAL PLAN AMENDMENT NO. 24

Subdivision File #: Rezoning File #: Official Plan File #: Applicant: Location:

nla nla 009-24 City of Barrie City of Barrie

I, Dawn A. McAlpine, of the City of Barrie, in the County of Simcoe, City Clerk for the City of Barrie, hereby certify that the Notice of Decision for Official Plan Amendment No. 24 as adopted by By-law Number 2013-185 on the 16'h day of December, 2013 was given in the manner and form and to the persons prescribed pursuant to Section 17 the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chap. P.13 and O. Reg.198/196 and O. Reg. 525/97 on the 19'h day of December, 2013.

I also certify that the appeal period expired on the 9'h day of January, 2014 and to this date no notice of appeal or request for a change in the provisions of the amendment has been filed by any person in the Office of the Clerk.

The purpose of this amendment is to update mapping related to source water protection and align the related policies with up to date information stemming from work mandated under the Clean Water Act 2006 (CWA).

Essentially the amendment replaces Schedule G - Wells and Wellhead Protection Areas with a New Schedule G titled Drinking Water System Vulnerable Areas, and updates some of the related policies with the objective of long term protection of drinking water sources.

The Amendment applies to vulnerable areas affecting municipal drinking water supplies within the entire City of Barrie as shown on Schedule "G".

Policy changes apply to Section 2.0 Community Context, Section 3 General Policies, including Section 3.5 Natural Heritage, Natural Hazards and Resources, Section 5 Servicing and Transportation Policies including Water and Wastewater, and Stormwater Management and Section 6 Implementation.

DATED at the City of Barrie this 30'h day of January, 2014.

Dawn A. McAlpine , City Clerk Box 400, 70 Collier Street Barrie, Ontario L4M 4T5

"THE PEOPLE ARE THE CITY"

---'

Farmland Forum 2014

ONTARIO FARMlAND mUST

TOWARD , Permanent Land Protectton

in an eoo.lo.ing POLICY ENVIRONMENT

Join us at our 10th annual Forum, as we explore the challenges of urban growth management and the protection of agriculture in Ontario's near-urban farming communities, by asking:

• How permanent is farmland protection policy in Ontario? • Are current pol icies effectively curbing sprawl and protecting agriculture? • Can policy makers & community stakeholders work more collaboratively to improve

farmland protection?

learn from the experts, and share your concerns and recommendations to help inform the policy debate in advance of the 2015/16 Greenbelt & Greater Golden Horseshoe Growth Plan reviews.

REGISTER NOW ONLINE www.OntarioFarmlandTrust.ca

OR CALL US TO LEARN MORE 519.824.4120 Ext: 52654

REGISTRATION ENOS FEBRUARY 28, 2014 FRIDAY, MARCH 7,2014 Early-Bird* : $751 Regular: $851 Student: $35 8:30AM - 4:00PM • Early·Bird rate ends Feb. 11, l o t ., ARBORETUM CENTRE, UNIVERSITY OF GUELPH

ONTARIO FARMLAND TRUST

2014 Farmland Forum

Farmland Forever: Toward Permanent Land Protection in an Evolving Policy Environment

Friday, March 7, 2014 - Arboretum Centre, University of Guelph

Forum DescriJ;)tion

Join us in Guelph for the 10th annual Farmland Forum, where we will explore the ongoing challenges of

urban growth management and the protection of agriculture in Ontario's near-urban fringe communities. This event creates a public forum for constructive dialogue to address the following questions:

• How permanent is farmland protection policy in Ontario? • Are current land use policies effectively curbing urban sprawl and protecting Ontario agriculture? • Can municipalities, the province, the farm community and other community stakeholders work

together more collaboratively to improve farmland protection?

A big focus of this year's forum wi ll be (entral Ontario, where t he Greenbelt Plan and the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe have created a framework for coordinating land use planning across the region in an attempt to rein in urban expansion; focus infrastructure investment; and preserve important agricultural and natural resources.

Now, approaching t he 10-year review of these policies, the forum w ill offer engaging panel debates about challenges and successes related to the implementat.ion of these policies, and what can be learned and applied in other parts of the province. This will feature voices of provincial policy makers, municipal leaders, independent researchers, representatives from the building industry, and farmers.

In addition, learn about leadership and innovation happening alongside planning policy development at the community level that is creating new, local measures of farm land loss and options for more permanent land protection.

There will also be opportunity at the forum to share your observations, concerns and recommendations to help inform the policy debate in advance of t he 2015/16 Greenbelt & Growth Plan reviews.

Who should attend? • Municipal Councillors • Land Use Planners • Community Development Professionals • Farmers & Agriculture Industry Professionals • Land Conservation Advocates • Provincial Ministry Staff

To view the forum program and register, visit: www.ontariofarmlandtrust.ca/get-involved/events

Application Form

f];>OntariO

A'''' Describe your organization (brief history, activities, project management experience and particularly with similar projects, role with current project, collaborators, and contributions to the project, etc.):

The Friends of the Utopia Mill & Park ("Friends") were incorporated in 2006 as a non-profit organization with a mandate to protect and promote the natural and agricultural heritage, with the centrepiece being the restoration of Bell's Gristmill contained in the 50-acre Utopia Conservation Area. Friends hold the lease to the Utopia Conservation Area, provided in trust by the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Area. The parkland is maintained through volunteers, supported through annual fund raising efforts to cover insurance and upkeep costs.

Friends utilize the nearby Utopia Hall as the hub for community gatherings and fund raising for the Gristmill Restoration Fund as well as retention of the Utopia Conservation Area as a public naturalized parkland. Built by the community in 1956, the Utopia Hall was sold by Essa Township in 2006 to a local resident, Susan Antler, whose objective was to retain it as a hub for the use of the Friends and other community groups who needed a place to gather. The Utopia Hall has been extensively renovated in 2007 - 2010 through the involvement of community craftsmen, many who gave generously of their time and talents, believing in the vision of the hall's retention in the community as a public space.

Friends' community work is extensive and year-round, building on the agricultural heritage of the area and promoting local involvement across many interests. Included among the many activities in the "annual event calendar" are:

- weekly Saturday morning gathering where the community is invited for free "toast & coffee", featuring Utopia Hall-baked bread, local eggs (poached) and Hall-made preserves. Fresh baked goods and preserves as well as donations from local artisans and book-lovers are available for sale, with all the proceeds going to the Utopia Gristmill Restoration Fund.

- the first Saturday of every month features a bigger breakfast fare, featuring local ingredients wherever possible. Again all the proceeds (suggested donation of $5 for the breakfast) are directed to the Utopia Gristmill Restoration Fund.

- "Seedy Saturday", held for the first time in Simcoe County by Friends at the Utopia Hall, involving local and nearby groups from such organizations as the Master Gardeners of Ontario, Communities in Bloom, Plant a Row. Grow a Row as well as nearby retail gardening experts.

- st. Patrick's Day dinner & concert as well as Pie Sales (Valentine's Day and Canada Day) to help raise funds for the Utopia Gristmill Restoration Fund

- Compost Sale - the major annual fundraiser for the park's maintenance and insurance needs (over $3000 is raised annually through this sale) .. Friends are the beneficiaries of support from The Compost Council of Canada who, through their members, donate compost for fund raising and the parkland's & community garden's needs.

- Annual Canada Day celebration featuring local and national musical talents and a fundraising

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bar-b-q

- Musical events at the Utopia Hall throughout the year, featuring lunch or dinner followed by a concert

- Ongoing canning & preserving sessions at the Utopia Hall - with how-to lessons being also provided

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- Sunflower Harvest Festival and Soupalicious Utopia, held in the Fall to celebrate the local harvest and culinary talents of the area. 2013 was the third year of this celebration, involving nearly 15 local food creation & sharing organizations.

In 2013, over 100 community events were held at the Utopia Hall, sponsored by Friends. The Utopia Hall was provided at no cost for all these events.

In addition to these events, Friends helped the Utopia Hall set up a community garden and were the recipients of one of the 2012 national Edible Trees grants awarded by Tree Canada. The grant was directed to the planting of a 34-tree orchard (apples, pears, plums and cherries) in the Utopia Conservation Area . Volunteers from across Essa Township - many being entire families - came out to help dig the holes, prepare the soil and plant the trees for the orchard . A number of community members devoted hours throughout the summer to care for the trees' watering and area maintenance. The long-term vision of the orchard is for the harvested fruit to be shared equally amongst the local food bank, orchard volunteers and used in the preparation of foods-for-sale for ongoing fund raising purposes.

The ongoing work of Friends is done by volunteers. Friends have been the proud recipient of grants enabling local youth to be full-time employed during the summer. Friends has also benefited from the cadet volunteers of nearby Canadian Forces Base Borden. Grants have been received to support the publication of an information brochure about our organization as well as to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee and Canada Day. The Utopia Hall has always been provided to Friends at no charge.

Friends' community network is extensive, enabling us to reach out for volunteers and partnerships to propel our programs forward. Organizations Included in our work-with and ongoing partnerships are Essa Township, Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority, CFB Base Borden, Healthy Community Committee of Essa Township, Essa Historical Society, AWARE Essa, Angus & Area Chamber of Commerce, The Angus Food Bank, Happy Hens of Utopia, The Compost Council of Canada and Plant a Row. Grow a Row. We have an ongoing column in our local paper, The Herald, as well as are supported by the nearby radio and television stations when requested. In addition to our website: www.utopia.on.ca. we have a presence on Facebook & Twitter as well as an ever-growing direct­email list used for updates and appeals (see attachments for an array of the flyers created to communicate some of our recent events).

(For photos, incorporation documents and sample event flyers, please refer to Appendices I, VI, VII)

·Project Information

Project Title: ENHANCED COMMUNITY KITCHEN

Select project category and type(s) from the list below. If your project covers more than one project category identify ONLY ONE primary category here. In your project description you can indicate secondary and tertiary project categories, types or linkages.

?

? Enhanced Technologies, Capacity or Minor Capital Project Category

• Supporting micro-processing and community kitchens.

Description of Project: (Please include the following as applicable: purpose and link to local foods; how the project wi ll be carried out; innovative aspects; collaborations/alliances; long term sustainability plans; economic development impact; plans for sharing your project results and linkages with provincial priori ties. Outcomes for the project are required in the "Project Outcomes" section.)

The current activities at the Utopia Hall have already established itself as a local hub, celebrating the agriculturally-based community and , in many ways, defending its' continued presence through the very mindful efforts to restore the nearby gristmill - an important cornerstone of local agricultural in the history of both this community as well as the Province of Ontario. The many, many fund raisers for the efforts of the Friends of the Utopia Mill and Park always feature a food component, with many of the supplies being sourced from local farms and larger-scale gardens - from the weekly community breakfasts on Saturday, the mammoth pie-baking events, ongoing bread-baking and preserve/relish­makings, evening dinners tied in with concerts and hosting of local & nearby community organizations and family events.

And thanks to the support of many, many volunteers and the donation of the building's ongoing use to the Friends, every dollar that has been raised (over and above any costs of supplies) has been added to the "pot" for the restoration of Utopia's Bell's Gristmill. In 2014, it will be the 150th

anniversary of the gristmill being in the community of Utopia. It is hoped that the building's restoration will be completed in time for the 2014 International Plowing Match and Rural Expo, to be held in Essa Township from September 16 - 20.

Our request to The Local Food Fund is to upgrade our hall's current kitchen to commercial-grade quality, recognized by local and provincial authorities as an important venue for food preparation. With this upgrade, the Utopia Hall would be available for community groups and local entrepreneurs who need a commercial kitchen to prepare food wares for sale to the public. The current farm-based surroundings would become even more visible in importance through the ever-greater sourcing of locally-made ingredients and the promotion of this feature in the products created in the kitchen of the Utopia Hall.

Without support from The Local Food Fund, the kitchen at the Utopia Hall must continue as is; using equipment that functions very well in any home setting: a stove, refrigerato r, microwave, residential blenderslchoppers and mixers with the dishes being washed and dried by hand. Financing upgrades to the kitchen from the current efforts of Friends as well as the ongoing support provided by the hail'S

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owner would severely detract from the overarching goal of financing the restoration of the Utopia Gristmill.

The funding request to The Local Food Fund is to purchase and install commercial grade kitchen equipment including:

- undercounter dishwasher

- sink with right & left drain board & pre-rinse function and stainless steel counter & rack

- convection oven

- restaurant electric range

- reach-in refrigerator

- planetary mixer

- stainless steel work table and over shelf

- range hood.

With this support, everything else is in place to not only continue to sustain our vision but, as well, exponentially propel forward our efforts to profile, nurture and promote the talents and resources of our rural-based, agricultural community.

The Utopia Hall is already well-known in the community, having been built by the community in 1956 and restored by many of the original builders and ensuing generations in 2007 -2010. The current event calendar forms an extensive array of happenings that appeal to both the local and nearby communities. The attraction of an upgraded kitchen facility for event developers and supporters will only make these events of stronger appeal. And while the current ownership of the hall is privately­held, the commitment of the owner remains to ensure that the Utopia Hall is available and freely accessible to both the Friends and every community group who has need of the venue to support their efforts. In December 2013, Utopia Hall successfully received a permanent liquor license, allowing for increased promotion of locally-made beverages and food connections

The partnership with Essa Township, the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit and the Healthy Community Committee of Essa is already in place with the activities of the Friends and Utopia Hall being meaningful components of local food education and promotion. The networks that are available through this committed partnership along with those from existing supports such as the Angus and Area Chamber of Commerce, The Compost Council of Canada, Plant a Row. Grow a Row, Communities in Bloom, Master Gardeners of Ontario , our local farm community and our supportive media partners will become even "louder" and more vibrant to promote local food entrepreneurs and their efforts with the continued and ever greater use of our website: www.utopia .on.ca and social media networks.

To sustain the kitchen use, local food entrepreneurs will be given access in creative financial ways. Volunteer hours and other contributions with Friends can be traded for kitchen use time to help nurture start-ups, eventually leading to a nominal per-hour kitchen usage charge. Additional food­related celebrations will be added to the event calendar in addition to even-more "how to grow - how to cook" education and edutainment sessions, created to appeal to every age group. The locally well­known baking prowess of the area will be featured even more prominently, celebrating the heritage of the community and, through "how to" events, passing this knowledge on to current and future generations.

Importantly, with the restoration of the gristmill , the importance of local agriculture will become even more prominent in our community. The gristmill, the only historically-designated building in Essa Township, was of fundamental importance to the agricultural roots of our community. Its restoration as a living, working museum will become a focal point for further community involvement, crossing

~1

P\~enerations. Together with the Utopia Hall, the gristmill opens up opportunities to recount history and provide real-life examples of the importance of local food infrastructure (farmland, gristmill, community hall) as advocates for "minimum food miles".

With the gristmill being destined as a tourism attraction, the many local food linkages will also be prominently featured in the "Utopia story", serving as primetime examples of how a rural , agriculturally-based community with limited means can function when many linkages are tied together and local talents & resources are put to the best public good.

Events featuring our many community societies - historical, agriculture, youth- as well as seniors­oriented to name a few - will be able to create additional events that meet their direct interests as well as open up others as additional connections unfold. In addition to the education and community networking, an active mill supported by a nearby hall and food facilities will offer opportunities for local jobs that will enable peoples of all ages to stay near home for employment. This will help set a tone for development in the area, enhancing the support for local food production thereby protecting nearby family farms by making farming more profitable and selling farmland for development less attractive.

Why this project is needed? (Provide complete or appropriate sections of research, studies, reports, and planning exercises, etc. if applicable to support the need for the project.)

The current activities and momentum already established by Friends to support and preserve the

agricultural elements of our community resonates extremely loudly within Essa Township and Simcoe County, involving participation from both the residents of the hamlet of Utopia as well as the broader area.

There is no commercial kitchen available in the Township of Essa for the ongoing use by community organizations and local food entrepreneurs. Upgrading the existing kitchen of the Utopia Hall , a current community hub, will provide a local, easily accessible commercial kitchen to support the

advancement and sustainability of local food production, food networks, entrepreneurs and community.

This funding request will support the vision of Simcoe County's Food & Agriculture Charter (Appendix IV) that rests on protecting and enhancing our local food system enabling the fulfilment of the

charter's principles that "all people of Simcoe County should have opportunities to celebrate food and culture"; "enhancing opportunities for local food and agriculture-related businesses or producers to produce, store, package, promote, sell and deliver their products locally and elsewhere ... for a

sustainable food system and long-term economic growth"; and "The people of Simcoe County desire a community built around food and agriculture that supports the sharing of knowledge and skills".

As well, our funding request helps advance the vision of Essa Township and its' Healthy Communities Committee (Appendix V) where 'Town and Country live and grow together in health, prosperity and peace built upon its natural, agricultural and historic heritage" along with the committee's stated goals of "Strengthen the local food system", "Celebrate history", "Strengthen the local economy" and "Protect, Preserve & Enhance Nature, Air, Water & Soil".