Integrity commissioner named
Council reviewed the two tenders received for its integrity commissioner: Weaver Simmons and Elston Watt.
Weaver Simmons’ proposal came with an hourly rate of $190-$400/hr plus a $7,500 training session for council while Elston Watt’s proposal came in at $250/hr plus a $750 training session.
CAO Dave Williamson said that while both firms were very reputable, staff was recommending that council choose Elston Watt, noting that the money saved on training alone could cover a few calls to the firm.
“Would there be any reason at all to consider Weaver Simmons?” asked Councillor Jim Ferguson.
Mr. Williamson said that the municipality has done a lot of work with Weaver Simmons and noted their reputation. “If I had any reason to justify them, I would. They’re just more expensive.”
Both Elston Watt and Weaver Simmons law firms have offices in Sudbury.
Council chose Elston Watt as its integrity commissioner, which specializes in municipal law.
Cheque registry
Council approved the following accounts for payment from December 31, 2018 through January 2019: expenses, $350,329.86; and payroll, $95,292.34.
Water/sewer rates
At the end of January, the Northeast Town has received $72,634.50 in payments from water/sewer billing. As of February 23, 19 accounts were over $400, one of which has been disconnected, 13 were overdue after the recent billing and five had made arrangements to begin to pay.
Taxes
As of January 31, the municipality had received $228,136.45 in tax payments. As of February 21, 20 properties are ready for tax registration.
Mr. Williamson commended staff for what he called the lowest number of tax arrears the municipality has had since his time there. “It’s a testament to the fact that Sheryl (Wilkin, treasurer) and her team are doing a great job of getting people in to pay their taxes.”
Fire chief’s report
Council reviewed the fire chief’s report. The chief, Duane Deschamps, was not present at the February 21 meeting.
The fire department responded to nine calls for service from January 25 to February 14: a carbon monoxide call at 119 Trotter’s Sideroad, three carbon monoxide calls to the Manitoulin Hotel, a carbon monoxide call at 31 Meredith Street West, a flooded basement at 7 Vankoughnet Street, an assist to police call at the fatal fire on the Green Bush Road, a transformer fire in Sheguiandah on Highway 6 and the report of a burning smell at a 7 Campbell Street West residence.
Community services
Community services manager Reid Taylor explained that he is currently working on more analysis for the splash pad while putting together a business case.
Mr. Williamson explained to council that there is some delay with the splash pad as it has been determined that operating costs could be as high as $28,000 a season. A second design option, to recycle water, would mean an additional initial expense of $60,000.
He noted that council has suggested alternate options to Low Island, such as downtown. While Low Island is still a preference because of the washroom facilities, Mr. Williamson said that downtown could also be an option.
“We’re right now concerned about the viability,” the CAO added.
“Do we have to go ahead with this or can we give the money back?” asked Councillor Cook. Mr. Williamson responded that the money can be sent back.
Councillor Erskine asked if there was an option to use lake water over treated water. Mr. Williamson said there was, but with a permit from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry.
Councillor Orr asked if staff had spoken with Gore Bay municipal staff about its splash pad. Mr. Williamson explained that they have been and will continue to.
Councillor Ferguson asked where the splash pad water is to be discharged. Mr. Williamson explained that, in the case of treated water, the discharge would go to a storm sewer. Otherwise, he’s unsure.
Councillor Boyd suggested having hours of operation, with Mr. Williamson in agreement.
“Is the water activated when you want it rather than running all the time?” Councillor Barb Baker asked. Mr. Williamson said yes, that was the plan.
Mr. Reid spoke of the many events happening, and coming up, at the rec centre.
Councillor Bill Koehler commended Mr. Taylor and events co-ordinator Lisa Hallaert for a successful snowmobile course that attracted 29 people.
Public works
Lead hand Wayne Williamson noted how public works crews have been busy with the amount of winter weather the Island has received in recent weeks. He also explained to council that to help public works keep on top of snow removal, Mike Varey and Sons Trucking and Randy Noble Trucking have been hired to assist the town’s crews.
Councillor Ferguson said he realized that crews had been busy, but noticed the narrowing of roads in Sheguiandah. Mr. Williamson said crews are working hard to push snow back throughout the municipality, but that it takes time.
No snow clearing for docks
Council received a letter from a Little Current visitor requesting that the municipality begin to clear snow from the docks to allow for a year-round walking trail.
Staff advised council that it was not a good idea, and council agreed.
Building controls report
As of February 14, six building permits have been issued in the Northeast Town so far. Total construction value to date is $11,130,000 with a total building permit revenue of $155,490. This, Mr. Williamson explained, is due to the new OPP detachment on Boozeneck Road and Hayward Street.
All meetings now council meetings
Council made a change to its procedural bylaw and now its committee meetings, held the first and third Thursday evening of every month, will become full meetings of council, thus allowing council to deal with planning authority items.
Councillor Bill Koehler said he would like to see the two Thursday evening meetings combined into one per month in the interest of saving money for the municipality. He received no support for this from his fellow councillors.
Animal control tender
Council received one response from its animal control tender, from Rainbow District Animal Services for $19,740 yearly for four years.
Council accepted the tender and renewed the contract.
