Council Meeting Reports August 2025
REGULAR MEETING of COUNCIL Wednesday August 6th, 2025
The Mayor, Deputy Mayor and councillors Brunelle, Walma and Helowka were in attendance. Mayor Evans in the chair.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
New Staff Announcement – Tina Arbuckle, Deputy Clerk
New Administration Centre Update Mr. Leitch, Director of Public Works advised that tenders have been awarded for site preparation. The Ad Hoc committee next meeting is August 18th. No issues were identified through the archaeological study. Test holes have been drilled to test water levels. Enbridge awarded a $10 K. cheque in recognition of Tiny moving towards a net zero building.
PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD (15-minute allotment)
By-law to accept Goessman Reservations
Andrew MacDonald noted that in 2002 council unanimously voted against assuming these reserves describing it as a potential nightmare better left with the MNR. He requested that the by-law not be approved at this time, noting concerns about financial implications, the need for further investigation and a collaborative approach to the issue. He questioned the rationale behind the initiative, the actual costs, and the benefits, suggesting it may create uncertainty and conflict between property owners and the public.
David Kohler expressed concern that the by-law would disrupt the harmonious beach use and create division within the community. He highlighted a lack of transparency in the process, ambiguity around surveying, and the repurposing of road allowances, urging Council to delay implementation until legal and financial implications are fully understood. Mr. Kohler also noted that abutting property owners did not receive formal notification, which has led to unnecessary legal consultation.
Marcia Woods expressed concern with the proposed by-law, noting the lack of analysis regarding the need for additional shoreline (beach) access. She questioned the rationale for proceeding with the initiative, which she believes contradicts the Township’s new dynamic beach policy and is not part of the strategic plan. Woods requested that Council pause the process and collect necessary data before moving forward.
Robert Smith raised concerns about limited public awareness, noting that while Council seemingly has been working on the matter for several years, residents have only recently been informed. Questions were posed regarding the accessibility of the Goessman Reserves, potential costs and liabilities to the Township, and the rationale for proceeding.
Mayor Evans advised that, in his opinion, the issue of the Goessman Reserves has been public information since 2023 and that due to the legal issues involved there is no opportunity for public input. He would not participate in a dialogue with Mr. Smith and Councillor Helowka threatened the gallery with removal if they did not maintain decorum.
Georgian Bay General Hospital Foundation – Power of Giving Event Robyn Kaczanowski and Sabrina Staunton addressed Council regarding the Georgian Bay General Hospital Foundation Power of Giving Event, scheduled for September 13, 2025, from 4:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., hosted at a private residence in Wyevale. Organizers anticipate raising approximately $320,000. A request was made for a noise by-law exemption for a live band and for approval to use golf carts to shuttle attendees from the parking lot through the soccer field to access the residence driveway. After discussion staff were directed to meet with the event organizers to determine shuttle requirements and approve the request based on insurance requirements being met.
DEPUTATIONS TO COUNCIL
Request for Crosswalk at Concession 5 and County Road 6 Ryan Meissner proposed improvements, including repainting the crosswalk, installing clearer signage, reducing the speed limit to 40 km/h, a four-way control intersection and a crossing guard.Staff advised that the County of Simcoe oversees the intersection and does not support further changes based on traffic studies, although some signage and speed limit adjustments have already been implemented. The matter was directed to staff for a report on further traffic calming measures.
MATTERS FOR CONSIDERATION
Bridge Rehabilitation and Potato Court Erosion Council directed staff to proceed with the repair of the Leblanc bridge on Concession 14 with Arnott Construction Limited at the tendered price of $87,595 + HST. and investigative work required to plan repairs of the erosion next to Potato Court near Concession 17 at an estimated cost of $60,000.
BY-LAWS
By-law 25-045 – to accept the dedication of the reservation contained in Crown Patents issued in 1823 to John Goessman, Deputy Surveyor, in certain Broken Township Lots lying along the shores of Georgian Bay
Councillor Walma noted the importance of identifying shared-use areas to secure public access. He clarified that there are currently eight identified reserves and emphasized that the by-law does not propose increased parking or development but rather affirms Township jurisdiction over lands dedicated in 1823. Mayor Evans reiterated that the by-law is focused on maintaining public access and preserving existing Township-dedicated lands. Councillor Brunelle recommended a three – week deferral to allow residents more time to understand the matter and requested a recorded vote. By-law 25-045 was approved. (4-1)
COMMITTEE of the WHOLE Wednesday August 6th, 2025
The Mayor, Deputy Mayor and councillors Brunelle, Walma and Helowka were in attendance. Councillor Walma in the chair.
MATTERS FOR CONSIDERATION
Mail Box Policy Council approved the new Mail Box Policy outlining mailbox style, placement and procedure should there be snow plow damage
Toanche Pavilion Tender Results and Next Steps: Council approved a proposal from Bertram Construction for a maximum $1,445,000 + HST to build a pre-engineered steel structure with refrigeration piping in the concrete slab. Upgrading the electrical feed and installation of a refrigerant plant would be included in future budget considerations. Bertram Construction will serve as construction manager at risk. In 2021 the Township had received a grant from the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program but did not proceed in part because of the pandemic. The grant may have to be returned.
COMMITTEES
Verbal Update/ Huronia Airport Commission Mayor Evans advised that the position for the Township of Tiny representative on the Huronia Airport Commission has been advertised due to a recent vacancy.
Heritage Advisory Committee Resolution – Municipal Heritage Registry Review Project After an extensive review and in light of legislative changes, 16 properties were identified as meeting the criteria for designation under the Ontario Heritage Act; Council directed staff to report back regarding next steps.
Senior Advisory Committee Resolution – Ducks in a RowProgramCouncil endorsed the Ducks in a Row program (enabling seniors to access pertinent information as they face the challenges of aging) and directed that all expenses be funded through the 2025 Operating Budget of theSenior Advisory Committee.
LINX Transit: The lack of fixed-route transit access creates mobility challenges for residents, particularly seniors, youth, and low-income individuals, thereby limiting equitable access to essential services, employment, education, and recreational opportunities. The Community Reach Transportation Program currently provides valuable door to door service for vulnerable residents in Tiny Township, including seniors and individuals with disabilities, but is limited in scope, capacity, and availability for the broader population and daily commuter needs. Council approved the formal request that the County of Simcoe conduct a review of LINX Route 1 with the goal of incorporating new stops in Wyevale and Perkinsfield.
COMMUNICATION
Paul Rosenberg – Petition regarding Boating Safety in Ossassane Bay/Wymbolwood Beach Tim Leitch, Director of Public Works, advised that boating safety communications regularly highlight the 300-metre shoreline speed limit. He noted that Transport Canada must approve buoy placements. Cost estimates received in 2019 for the initial installation of markers were approximately $80,000, with ongoing annual maintenance costs around $40,000.
Danuta Robaszewski – Request for Reduced Annual Fee for STR Licence Renewals in Good Standing Council discussed a reduced annual fee for STR licence renewals in good standing. CAO Lamb confirmed the fee is reviewed annually, and any revisions to the by-law should wait until appeals are finalized.
Simcoe Meditation Centre – Request for Proclamation and Flag Raising Council approved that September 21 be proclaimed as World Peace Day / International Day of Peace in the Township of Tiny and that staff make the necessary arrangements for a proclamation and flag raising ceremony.
SPECIAL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING
Wednesday, August 13, 2025
Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Councillors Brunelle and Helowka in attendance. Councillor Walma attended virtually from 3:27 p.m.
Corporate Services Report CS-FIN-010-25 – Long-Term Capital Forecast Council and staff reviewed the 20-year capital forecast as a strategic planning tool. The session focused on using asset management data to guide long-term infrastructure investment, and identifying funding strategies, including tax implications and reserve planning. Council directed staff to prioritize the capital projects in anticipation of the 2026 budget deliberations, including risks associated with project deferrals. Next steps include incorporating feedback into the draft budget for formal review in December.
PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD
Capital Projects/Asset Management Program Drew Ironstone noted the underestimation of asset lifespans and cost projections affecting the overall capital budget. The municipality is facing a projected significant funding shortfall, and incremental tax increases of 2% annually will not be sufficient to close the gap. To address this, it was suggested that either substantial tax increases will be required, or services and programs will need to be reduced or delivered more efficiently. Council was urged to take proactive steps to stabilize the municipality’s financial position and ensure long-term sustainability.
Municipal Partnerships for Shared Services/Facilities Paul Bell encouraged staff and Council to approach neighbouring municipalities to determine opportunities for shared services and/or facilities such as arenas, and capital projects such as the new administration centre to help address the funding gap.
Administration Building Loan Interest and Procurements Karen Zulynik addressed the members of Council regarding the administration centre loan interest expenses, and specifically inquired as to how these costs would be allocated in the 2026 budget. Staff and Council were encouraged to evaluate budgets, estimates and procurement results to determine if costs are reflective of market value.
REGULAR MEETING OF COUNCIL Wednesday August 27th, 2025
Deputy Mayor Miskimins and councillors Brunelle, Walma and Helowka were in attendance. Deputy Mayor Miskimins in the chair. The mayor had an out of country meeting to attend.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
New Administration Centre Update Tim Leitch, Director of Public Works commented that they are finishing up archaeological reports. Site prep work ready to go. Continuing design on interior HVAC, electrical etc.
AMO Conference Deputy Mayor Miskimins advised that four representatives attended in Ottawa last week and delegated for $25 K. from government to help SSEA deal with inland lake water quality.
MATTERS FOR CONSIDERATION
Balm Beach Culvert Replacements The 2025 budget includes three cross culvert replacements in the Balm Beach area, partially due to the culverts nearing the end of their estimated lifespans and partially to allow them to convey higher water volumes. This will reduce the frequency of the streams overtopping the roads during storm events. Council approved moving forward with award of the contract to Forty-Five Scapes Inc. in the amount of $1,688,737.58 +HST.
Mayor’s Charity Golf Tournament Working Committee Resolution re Charity Funding Disbursement The net revenue of $38,407.82 was less than in past years and was distributed as follows:
- Angels with Backpacks $3,487.25
- BGC North Simcoe $4,184.68
- Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Simcoe $2,092.35
- CLH Foundation $2,441 .07
- Friends of Awenda Park $1,394.90
- Gateway Centre for Learning $3,487.25
- Georgian Bay Food Network $3,487.45
- Scientists in Schools $3,417.50
- Sistema Huronia Music Academy $1,743.62
- We Are The Villagers $3,487.25
- Askennonia Seniors Centre $3,487.25
- Midland Small Set Co-operative Nursery School $697.25
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE Wednesday August 27th, 2025
Deputy Mayor Miskimins and councillors Brunelle, Walma and Helowka were in attendance. Deputy Mayor Miskimins in the chair. The mayor had an out of country meeting to attend.
REPORTS OF CONSULTANTS OR THIRD PARTIES
North Simcoe Community Futures Development Corporation – 2025 Update Kevin Culhane, General Manager presented a brief update on the NSCFDC which provides:
– Free Business Coaching:working to prepare business plans leading to success.
– Community Economic Development:working to create and deliver the programs and services needed by entrepreneurs in North Simcoe.
– Applying for Loans: providing customized financing for business projects in the start-up, maintenance or expansion stage.
STAFF REPORTS
Update on County Council Composition and Full-time Appointed Warden County Council reviewed the results of the triple majority process regarding County By-law 7119-25, which proposed changing the current structure of County Council from 32 representatives (including the Warden) to 16 representatives plus a full-time, appointed Warden.
The vote at the lower-tier level resulted in a tie. While the full triple majority requirement under the Municipal Act was not achieved, two of the three conditions were met. As a result, County Council passed a resolution requesting the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing to validate the By-law despite not meeting all triple majority requirements.
Farm Crawl Event Restructure and Implementation of the Taste of Tiny, Farm to Table Event The Township’s Farm Crawl has been an annual Fall Agri-tourism event designed to connect residents and visitors with the community’s agricultural sector through a guided, multi-stop, farm tour. The event has promoted awareness of Tiny’s agricultural heritage, supported farm businesses through direct sales, and encouraged “buy local” practices. While the event has successfully engaged the community, financial results over the past several years show a consistent net cost to the Township, with declining revenues and rising operational costs. Council voted against holding an event this year due to a tight time frame and relatively high ticket cost. The Recreation Department plans to submit a plan for a two-day event in 2026, which would qualify for a $3,000 county tourism grant.
Proposed New Format – The Taste of Tiny: Farm to Table + Farm Connections: After consulting about 55 local farmers, staff developed a new format for the event. Proposed timing of this event will be moved to August to accommodate Tiny’s summer residents and as/per the farmers request this is more conducive to optimal harvest time and product availability. The new format includes chef prepared farm-to-table dinner at a local farm, expanded programming with on-site farmer connections, enhanced equipment and infrastructure, and marketing to increase attendance and vendor engagement.Projected Net Result: break-even $0
Public Works Report 022-25 – Farlain Lake Water Levels: the lake is a kettle lake, has no surface discharge outlet and residents attribute a significant rise in water levels to the paving of the road which runs along the north side of the lake. A staff report recommends a public meeting for concerned citizens with the Township’s drainage superintendent to inform them of their rights and options for controlling lake levels under the Drainage Act.
Mayor’s Ad Hoc Task Force on Community Wellness – Deputy CAO Leblond advised that Kim Tran has resigned from this committee but has since started work with the Township as the new Tax Clerk.
Mayor’s Charity Golf Tournament Working Committee Establishment of Pickleball TournamentDirector Pallas advised that the committee was unanimous in wanting to organize a Charity Pickleball Tournament in 2026. Council was supportive of the proposal and looks forward to more details on costs and format.
PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD
Farlain Lake Mr. Conroy, a resident of Farlain Lake, voiced his concerned with the increased water levels. It was noted that SSEA is looking into the matter.
Farlain Lake Resident Alan Lunds raised concerns about the water levels and the possibility that Council will expect residents to pay for any or all remedial works.
Farlain Lake Rosemary Allan advised that back-lot owners are having serious problems with their sump pumps and believes that Township should be dealing with the issue.
Axler Property Karen Zulynik voiced concerns about 1) $29,000 in interest for three months on the bank loan taken out to purchase this property 2) about the process in which the Axler property was purchased for $ 4.5 Million and 3) the future use of the property given there is over 1700 ft. of Township shoreline in this area that has not been developed as beachfront. She was advised that multiple appraisals were done by a licenced appraiser and that a report on future use was forthcoming by consultants.