Regular Council Meeting Wednesday April 3rd 2024
The Mayor, Deputy Mayor and three Councillors were in attendance at both meetings.
Open Deputations:
Dave Wulff addressed the new Municipal building project and Council’s total disregard for public involvement and concern about the debt resulting from the project.
Karen Zulynik addressed Council regarding the municipal building report that was issued with the agenda. She felt it was confusing and so large it was difficult to absorb in such a short time.
She also questioned Tatham Engineering getting a renewed contract when there was so many in non-compliance with the septic regulations. Also, why we are renting to Tatham when space is required for staff. Her comments were received with thanks.
Laury Drury addressed Council regarding the new administration centre building project, specific to the lack of public engagement, the lack of public awareness and the importance and historical value of the existing building to the community. Ms. Drury was thanked for her deputation.
Scheduled Deputations:
Paul Cowley- FoTTSA President encouraged Council to change its process for the development of a new administration building, noting concerns such as the notice period for the initial engagement sessions, the proposed site and selection process for the new building. Mr. Cowley was thanked for his deputation and advised that it would be discussed further at the April 24, 2024, Committee of the Whole Meeting.
Chris Figgures – Balm Beach Business Association addressed Council regarding a proposal for a non-permanent beach stage for use at the Busk ‘til Dusk summer events hosted at Balm Beach among other community event opportunities. Mr. Figgures was thanked for his deputation and advised that the matter would be discussed further at the April 24, 2024, Committee of the Whole Meeting.
Mayor’s Charity Golf Tournament Proceeds
Council approved the recommendation from the Mayor’s Charity Golf Tournament Committee regarding the charity selection for the 2024 golf tournament proceeds as follows:
• Angels with Backpacks $3,000.00
• BGC North Simcoe $2,500.00
• Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Simcoe $2,500.00
• CLH Foundation $3,500.00
• Compassion Place $2,500.00
• Friends of Awenda $2,000.00
• Gateway Centre for Learning $5,000.00
• Georgian Bay Cancer Support Centre $2,575.00
• Georgian Bay Food Network $7,000.00
• Georgian Shores Swinging Seniors $500.00
• Hospice Huronia $2,500.00
• Huronia Community Foundation $3,000.00
• Independent Living Services, Simcoe County $2,500.00
• Quest Art School + Gallery $3,000.00
• Scientists in School $4,900.00
• Sistema Huronia Music Academy $2,500.00
• We Are The Villagers $5,000.00
Funds are to be distributed to the supported applicant organizations on a prorated basis should there be a surplus or deficit from the fundraising goal.
Silver Birch Road Retaining Wall
Council approved the proposal from GMP Construction to repair the gabion wall for $442,481.72 + HST.
Committee of the Whole Meeting Wednesday April 3rd, 2024
Open Deputation:
Arlene Marchildon addressed the recent public dissatisfaction with Council’s governance and encouraged them to continue to foster open communication with the public.
2023 Year End Variance Report
The 2023-year end report was included in the agenda projecting an operating surplus of $473k and a capital surplus of $476k for a total estimated surplus of $949k.
Wyevale Park Ball Diamond Lighting
Pricing for replacing poles and lights was $253,000+HST and Council instructed staff to include in 2025 budget considerations.
Township of Tiny Administrative Centre Update
Council considered a staff report regarding an update on the new Administrative Centre. The purpose of the report was to present background, options, and financial summaries for Council to provide direction to the Committee and staff. It was noted that no final financing decisions were requested at this time. The update included the historical background, sustainable environmental objectives, work environment objectives and public environment objectives.
Council deliberated on debenture options, interest rates, public space options within the proposed design concept, and a public engagement session.
Upon discussion, Council approved the selection of design Concept Schematic A1 as selected by the TTAC and confirmed the sizing of the Public Space for the new Administrative Centre.
Council also supported and directed staff to proceed with Unity Design Studios, at an upper cost limit of $100,000 to write and submit Grant applications for the Green Municipal Fund and to complete the Planning Documentation package at an estimated upper limit cost of $12,000.
Councillor Dave Brunelle motioned that Council direct the TTAC to pause future actions until a full public engagement session occurs and upon the completion of the asset management plan. Defeated 4-1
It was then motioned by Councillor Dave Brunelle that Council direct staff to schedule a Special Meeting of Council for a strategic plan review. This motion carried 4-1.
Deputy Mayor Sean Miskimins then motioned that Council direct staff to plan a full public engagement session related to the development of the Township of Tiny Administrative Centre and that a hybrid meeting structure be investigated in a neighbouring municipality that has the physical and broadband capacity to do so. Staff are to report back at the April 24, 2024, Committee of the Whole Meeting as to possible venues and dates.
Artificial Ice
Council supported the Parks and Recreation Advisory resolution dated March 12, 2024, regarding artificial ice and directed staff to research the feasibility of artificial ice, as well as to consider the implications of altering/reaffirming the size of the current Toanche Pavilion Project.
Dog Park
Council supported Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee resolution dated March 12, 2024, regarding a proposed dog park at Toanche Park to be included in the 2025 capital budget.
Mini Master Plan Resolution
Council supported Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee resolution dated March 12, 2024, regarding the selected Township parks for the mini master plans as approved in the 2024 Budget. The master plan for Perkinsfield Park is to be completed first with the mini master plans for Wyebridge Park and Lafontaine Park being considered in the 2025 and 2026 budget planning, respectively.
Ontario Land Tribunal Decision – OLT-22-004716
Mayor Evans advised that the OLT dismissed the appeal to the township’s Zoning By-law related to boathouses.
Special Meeting of Council – April 8, 2024 (regarding the Interim Control By-Law)
The Mayor, Deputy Mayor and three Councillors were in attendance.
Open Deputations:
Larry Hutzul addressed Council regarding a particular property that continues to implement shoreline alterations including a retaining wall, outdoor shower, boathouse stairs, patio furniture, and outdoor lighting among other structures and requested that staff investigate enforcing the by-laws regulating these matters. Mr. Hutzul was thanked for his deputation.
Cody Morden addressed Council as a local contractor for shoreline development and employer of Tiny residents. Mr. Morden requested involvement in the development of the shoreline alteration by-law and further that the extension of the interim control by-law be deferred until further consultation with contractors and stakeholders has occurred. It was also requested that the study conducted by Aqua Solutions 5 Inc. be peer reviewed. Mr. Morden was thanked for his deputation.
Sandra Walti addressed Council regarding the Interim Control By-law and requested that shoreline alteration works conducted by property owners and contractors beyond the scope of the permit issued be held accountable to the by-law. Ms. Walti was thanked for her deputation.
Michelle Dada MNT Consulting, addressed Council regarding the proposed extension of the Interim Control By-law and requested that at a minimum, an amendment to exempt areas of shoreline determined to be non-dynamic, or can be reasonably demonstrated to be non-dynamic through a site-specific study, be considered. It was further requested that the Interim Control By-law be allowed to expire and that consideration be given to a more appropriate solution to allow reasonable shoreline alteration work to proceed. Ms. Dada was thanked for her deputation.
Reports of Consultants or Third Parties:
Judy Sullivan, Aqua Solutions 5 Inc. – Dynamic Beach Management Update
Ms. Sullivan, Aqua Solutions 5 Inc., provided an update on the dynamic beach study including the project team overview, project background, Phase 1 key results, strategic objectives for the by-law on shoreline alterations, considerations for the by-law, provincial considerations, a summary of the W.F. Baird study conducted in 2005, and next steps for the development of the shoreline structure by-law. Upon discussion, the report was received as information.
Proposed Extension to the Interim Control By-law 23-044
Staff advised that in accordance with the provisions of the Planning Act, a municipality may extend an interim control by-law for a period of one year, for a total of a two-year maximum term from the date of passing of the interim control by-law. The study is being led by Aqua Solutions 5 Inc. (AQS5) to investigate the dynamic beach hazards associated with Georgian Bay. Their work is continuing. Given the study has not yet been completed and the necessary implementation tools have not been prepared, it is recommended that Council amend the Shoreline ICBL to extend the by-law for a further one-year period.
Council authorized the Mayor and Clerk to execute a one-year extension to Interim Control By-law 23-044, as amended by By-law 23-048, for the purpose of allowing for the continuation of the study being undertaken to review options for the regulation of retaining walls and structures in proximity to the 178-metre contour elevation of the Georgian Bay shoreline and the preparation of the necessary by-law or by-law amendments and other implementation tools to provide the Township with the means of controlling the alteration of the shoreline and erection of retaining walls and other structures. Staff were directed to give notice of the extension of the Interim Control By-law and to consult with local contractor stakeholders to inform the preparation of the necessary by-law or by-law amendments and other implementation tools to provide the Township with the means of controlling the alteration of the shoreline and erection of retaining walls and other structures effective April 8th 2024.
Regular Council Meeting Wednesday April 24th,2024
The Mayor, Deputy Mayor and three Councillors were in attendance at both meetings.
Open Deputations:
Drew Ironstone is a Tiny resident and was Director of Facility Management for the County of Simcoe for 24 years prior to his retirement. He outlined his experience with projects such as those proposed for the new administrative building and the perils involved with cost increases. He outlined many of the issues that could increase both capital and operating expenses in the long term. And the impacts on taxpayers in the future. He urged Council to pause the project and listen to the will of the citizens.
Janice Murton a resident and business owner/operator in Tiny Township raised her concern with the failure of Council to acknowledge the need of residents to have input into the proposed administration building.
Ms. Murton itemized the many deputations requesting more public engagement especially at a time more convenient for seasonal residents, the lack of transparency in the process, the many signatures on a petition, the large crowds a two public protests, the large infrastructure deficit, the lack of resident representation on the committee.
David Wulff also provided a detailed deputation focusing on other issues impacting costs for residents. Septic management, fuel costs, lawsuits that will emerge re STR’s and shoreline regulations and rising insurance costs to name a few. He feels that the threat of amalgamation will have a major impact on residents. Tiny is not a rich community with average income is $51,000 per year. The current infrastructure deficit is around $72 or $73 million although the numbers have yet to be verified by the Asset Management Plan due to be completed and submitted to the Province by July. He requested that given the current uncertainty of overall deficits that the current municipal building process be paused.
Pam Fulford outlined her concerns with the toxic atmosphere being generated by the current administration centre which she feels is sorrily needed. She also suggested Tiny Bonds be issued to offset the tax burden.
Councillor Brunelle asked what she considered the reason for resident anger to which she replied that it was due to the increased costs of living.
Paul Bell noted that the new administrative building project is in contravention of the Endangered Species Act and recommended that the current facility be expanded to avoid this and the excessive costs associated with a new build.
Amanda Greenfield spoke to the proposed TC Energy project being proposed for Meaford and the negative environmental impact this will have.
Erik Schomann raised his concern with the real threat of amalgamation. He requested a more democratic, conciliatory approach to ensure the protests do not accelerate to Provincial levels.
Scheduled Deputations:
Karen Zulynik expanded on the values and benefits of the Township adopting a hybrid work policy that would significantly reduce the floorspace required for the administrative centre. She was advised that this would be further discussed at the May 15 CoW meeting.
Bob Baranski, Save Georgian Bay Association and Rupert Kindersley, Georgian Bay Association – TC Energy Proposal for Pumped Storage Energy Plant The SGB association was formed to protect the bay from the proposed TC Energy Pumped Storage Plant. Mr. Baranski expressed opposition to the project due to the irreparable harm to the Niagara Escarpment and risks to the ecosystem and waters of Georgian Bay.
New Administrative Centre
The Public Works Report PWR-013-24 on the new Administrative Centre was pulled for discussion.
Councillor Walma asked the Director of Finance how many taxable properties are in Tiny. She stated that there are 12,097 taxable residences and the average cost per household on an assessed value of $350,000 would be $6.39 per month. This is based on a 30 year debenture at 4.71% using funding through Infrastructure Ontario.
He requested a recorded vote take place on the recommendations approved by the Committee of the Whole dated April 3rd, 2024.
Councillor Dave Brunelle motioned that Council direct the TTAC to pause future actions until a full public engagement session occurs and upon the completion of the asset management plan. This was defeated 4-1.
Upon discussion, Council approved the selection of design Concept Schematic A1 as selected by the TTAC. Also, Council confirmed the sizing of the Public Space for the new Administrative Centre.
Council also supported and directed staff to proceed with Unity Design Studios, at an upper cost limit of $100,000 to write and submit Grant applications for the Green Municipal Fund and to complete the Planning Documentation package at an estimated upper limit cost of $12,000.
Council voted 4-1 in favour of all recommendations. Councillor Brunelle opposed.
Appointment of Deputy Treasurer
Councillor formally approved the bylaw to appoint Ashley Brodeur as Deputy Treasurer for the Township of Tiny effective June 1, 2024.
Committee of the Whole Meeting Wednesday April 24th, 2024
Township of Tiny Community Risk Assessment Report
Grace McDonough, the Loomex Group, presented its report outlining treatment plans for identified public safety risks. Full report in the April 24 agenda.
County of Simcoe Update
Municipal Insurance Pool
The County of Simcoe, member municipalities and the City of Orillia participated in an insurance pooling feasibility study to assess the feasibility of establishing an insurance pool solution.
In February 2024, Axxima presented the feasibility study results to the participating CAOs and Treasurers. The study showed a positive financial outcome for Simcoe County, all member municipalities and the City of Orillia with a total projected savings of approximately $2.6M to $3.7M during the set-up phase and $4.1 to $5.2M at maturity. Given the positive outcome of the feasibility study all participants agreed to take the next step which is to develop a detailed implementation plan. The study results will be used to help determine the organizational structure, administration, program costs and claims handling functions.
This will take approximately 6-8 months to complete with the assistance of Axxima and the continued involvement of participant member’s CAOs, Treasurers and staff. The Implementation Plan is estimated to cost up to $200,000. Staff are requesting Council approval and financial support to create an Insurance Pool Implementation Plan. Once completed, staff will return with the proposed Implementation Plan, which if endorsed, will then be presented to each potential participant with a request for commitment.
STR Update
To date 182 licences have been received for processing with 150 approved and with 118 available.
Discussion: FoTTSA Deputation
Councillor Brunelle commented on the April 3rd presentation and supported many of the recommendations. He also indicated his hope that the questions raised were answered. No other comments were forthcoming, and it was moved that the deputation be received as information.
Discussion: Balm Beach Business Association Deputation
The proposal for a non-permanent beach stage for use at the Busk ‘til Dusk summer events hosted at Balm Beach was reviewed. It was recommended that the item be discussed during the 2025 budget deliberations.
Public Engagement Session – Township of Tiny Administrative Centre
Council directed staff at the April 3rd Committee of the Whole to arrange a location and date for a public meeting. Tim Leitch, Director of Public Works gave a verbal update on the proposed process indicating that finding a venue was becoming an issue but they hope to have a date and location prior to the end of May.
Request for Delegated Authority to Staff for Commenting on Environmental Registry of Ontario Postings
Council approved the staff recommendation. The Province uses the Environmental Registry of Ontario (ERO) to post proposals and solicit comments on changes to provincial policies, legislation and regulations. Proposed changes to provincial Acts such as the Planning Act, Development Charges Act, Municipal Act, among others, are posted on the ERO. The Province is then meant to consider the feedback received, make any necessary changes to the proposals based on the feedback, and then enact the proposal through the appropriate policy document, Act or regulation. The Provincial ERO posting commenting periods are short and often 30 days or less. This does not leave much time for Staff to review, understand implications and distill the proposals into Township-specific responses. The timelines also often do not align with Council meetings to receive direction prior to the closing of the commenting period. Staff recommend that Council authorize Staff to provide comments, where required, for the current and future ERO postings without first receiving direction from Council when and if commenting periods/deadlines do not align with Council meetings. Staff would continue to seek direction from Council on proposed ERO comments for any posting timelines that permitted this.