Close Votes and Progress

Posted on December 2, 2015 by Ross Sutherland

After a year of sometimes difficult debate we are close to a plan for development on Johnson Point and getting closer to a final Hartington subdivision agreement.

Johnson Point

The subdivision at Johnson Point came back to Council on December 1 with a recommendation that had been negotiated between lawyers.  The new proposal had modest gains for protection of the lake and the provincially significant wetland but increased the density of the development from 17 to 18 lots.  By a vote of 5-4 Council supported 17 lots in total on Johnson Point. Then, after a surprising set of votes, defeated a motion to go forward with comprehensive development conditions.  The old phrase, “close but still no cigar”, comes to mind.

Planning is a Community Process

As part of our strategic plan Council supported “responsible development.”  This may be a different approach then some are used to, but an approach that is well within accepted planning principles and more representative of the wishes of residents.

In my 35 years of community development involvement, I have seen two broad approaches to planning:

  • For some planning is a technical exercise between planners and developers, and
  • For others planning and development are a more open and democratic process driven by the community that involves technical considerations, provincial limits, developers and wishes of residents.

If properly embraced, the wide community engagement approach can produce better development for a healthy, livable and sustainable community.

Some lessons learned

I think that both the Hartington and Johnson Point discussions have provided some useful lessons.

  • An involved community, with time to consider a project, will raise concerns, that when dealt with create a better development. On Johnson Point we found out that the site is in a Candidate Area of Natural and Scientific Interest and home to at least two species at risk. The Ministry of Natural Resources has become involved, totally inappropriate waterfront lots have been identified and we have corrected water depth readings around the site.
  • The definition of waterfront in our zoning bylaw is probably inadequate. It basically makes everything with moisture waterfront.
  • There is value in Council having technical studies, like Environmental Impact Statements and hydrogeological studies, done independently of the developer. Council has now approved a plan to make this more likely in future development applications.
  • Our Official Plan needs to be improved. I raised some of these concerns in my September blog, https://rosssutherlandloughborough.net/2015/09/12/opportunities-missed-and-technical-difficulties/, and it now seems likely that our Official Plan permits industrial and commercial development virtually anywhere in a hamlet. Most residents would probably find this unacceptable.

More public notice

Council is considering a proposal that will require 6 weeks notice for public meetings on major developments.  A common complaint from lake associations and neighbours is that it is difficult on short notice to make arrangements to attend public meetings, especially if people are away from the Township in winter.  Second, these developments have many large and highly technical studies. Allowing only two weeks for the community to respond creates a significant barrier to meaningful community engagement.

Council is also looking at ways to bring the community into the process earlier so that the developer and planning staff can take residents’ concerns into account while the technical studies are being done.

These two issues have not yet been passed and it would be helpful if you could send along your comments, either for or against.

Buck Lake Philanthropy Award

Congratulations to the residents of Buck Lake who won a national philanthropy award for their efforts to raise money for the Easter Seals Camp Merrywood.

Perth Road Fire Hall

A conditional offer has been accepted on a new fire hall location in Perth Road Village. Keep your fingers crossed that the conditions can be met and we can build a new station next year.

2% budget passed

We have passed a 28 million dollar Township budget that represents a 2% tax increase.

Canoe Lake beach

The road widening and an agreement with the landowner on the high water mark will guarantee clear and continued public access to the beach on the west end of the causeway between Canoe and Eel Lakes.

It has been a full year for the new Council but I think some solid progress has been made that will improve the Township.  I appreciate all your input and welcome more on any of the issues raised here or anything else on your mind.

All the best of the season and I hope to see you over the holidays or in the New Year,

Ross.

 

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Water Everywhere, But Where to Swim?

Posted on November 5, 2015 by Ross Sutherland

Last month there were some interesting discussions on lake use.  One, a small local issue with larger community impacts, is about a little Canoe Lake beach.

Canoe Lake Public Access

At the west end of the James Wilson Road causeway that separates Canoe Lake from Ell Lake, is a small naturally sandy entrance to Canoe Lake.  For many years local community residents have used this access point to swim in the lake.  For much of that time the owner of the land next to the entrance (maybe the owner of the land, the boundaries are unclear) has complained about the area residents using this beach. There has also been an occasional issue of parking along James Wilson road both from use of the beach and from use of the boat launch also on the causeway.

The owner recently applied to create three lots, through a process called consent, which, within certain restrictions, is allowed on the lake.  They will be large lots and there are no significant planning concerns about the creation of these lots. One stipulation in the consent process is that the land owner must deed to the Township five per cent of the land for park purposes or pay the Township cash in lieu of land.  Almost always in consent applications the Township takes the money.  Taking the actual land for public parks happens more often in larger subdivisions.

Some of the area residents made the case that this would be a good opportunity to use the parkland provisions to create a small parkette to improve access to the lake and provide safe parking.  It would also decrease conflict in the area because public access to the sandy beach would be clear.  The James Wilson Road is not a busy road, nor is use likely to increase dramatically, and while many local residents use the beach it is most often empty.

For me the issue is both how we provide good public access to our lakes and how we keep our lakes in good condition.  Our lakes are the whole community’s assets.  This is recognized in our Official Plan which states that one of our Township’s goals is to “to secure land located along shorelines for public uses.”  The Canoe Lake beach parkette (it is not big enough to qualify as a park) is one of those rare opportunities to gain access to one of our lakes on a naturally sandy shore.  It would benefit the entire community and increase safety along James Wilson Road. If we miss this opportunity we will not get it again.

The issue is coming up for deputations at the November 10 Committee of the Whole meeting.  If you have an opinion on whether the Township should take parkland or money in this consent application please pass it along to me or come to the meeting.  Deputations are welcome.

Public Boat Launches

A similar discussion took place in our budget deliberations.

The Public Works Department, in their 2016 budget submission, proposed repairing six public boat launches, including Knowlton and Buck Lake’s, at a cost of sixty thousand dollars. These two public boat launches in Loughborough District are in serious need of repair, to the point of being difficult to use.  Concerns have also being raised about the boat launch on the Desert Lake causeway, but that is more complicated due to ownership issues.

During the discussion at Committee of the Whole it was raised that many lake associations would not support the Township fixing the ramps because the lake residents wanted to decrease access to the lakes.  This has not been my experience.  First, many cottagers use the ramps to get their boats in and out of the lake.  Second, most cottagers and lake residents recognize that lakes are a common asset and what they are concerned about is protecting the quality of the lakes and preserving this asset.  Good, ecologically sensitive use of our lakes applies equality to cottagers, lake residents, the general public and developers. I believe this is also the goal of the current Council.

The discussion at the Committee of the Whole ended with general support for the inclusion of the boat launch repairs in the budget.  If you have any comments on this issue please pass them along.

Budget 2%

A final note, we are deep into the 2016 budget discussion and our goal is to keep the local tax increase to two percent.

I would like to know your opinion on any of the above issues as well as any other concerns you may have.  Please give me a call, 532-7846, or send me an email.

I put new snow tires on this week.  The cost was outrageous, but the snow will come and it still seems like a good idea. I look forward to seeing you around the township.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Opportunities Missed and Technical Difficulties

Posted on September 12, 2015 by Ross Sutherland

Official Plan: Missed Opportunities

The official plan review is wrapping up and we have missed an opportunity. We have spent our time responding to changes proposed by the province rather than seriously reviewing how we want to plan and develop our Township.

Our current official plan was passed in 2003 after the formation of the new South Frontenac Township.  It was developed through an extensive consultation process with residents and the four old townships.  In the last 12 years South Frontenac has become a more united Township. We face new development, environmental and social pressures, yet we did not engage the community in a systematic way. We did not ask the big questions.

Do we want development mostly in the hamlets, or in our rural areas?  We have more residents along roads with rural vistas so development on rural land next to their back yards is often a source of tension.

Do we think encouraging many new homes in our smaller hamlets, for instance, Hartington, Wilmer, and Spafford’s Corners is a good idea.  Should we instead focus our development on five or six larger hamlets which could be commercial hubs, recreation centers and promote viable small town living?  Are we content to be bedroom community for Kingston?

Do we need to expand our protection of lakes, waterways and wetlands? How do we ensure that the broader community has access to the lakes yet maintain their quality and the quality of lakeside living? What are the implications of replacing our old seasonal recreational communities with full-time resident populations? These are just a few of our pressing concerns.

While many aspects of development and planning are dictated by the Province, the municipality still has significant power.  To maximize our influence and adapt to changing conditions we need a more in-depth, engaged community discussion on the kind of development we want.  Please send along your thoughts on how this should happen.

Development Distress

Our failure to confront these broader planning issues can be seen in the conflicts on the proposed subdivisions in Hartington and on Johnson’s Point in Loughborough Lake.

Both of these developments are in areas less than ideal.  One is in the middle of an environmentally important area and the other in a farming rural community with significant water issues.

There will be more intense scrutiny of these and future developments.   Local residents with access to new technologies and skills are better able to organize and respond to the developers.  Also, Council has taken the correct position of encouraging more community involvement.  More involvement often means more heartfelt objection which legitimately has to be considered. Council then needs time to decide what concerns are reasonable and what is in the best long-term interests of the Township. Developers will need to adapt to the new level of accountability demanded: it has happened in most other communities and can happen here.

Technical Difficulties

In both the Hartington and Johnson’s Point proposals, technical studies, which had gone through our traditional peer review process, have been challenged by further technical studies: one commissioned by the Township and the other paid for by local residents.

Traditionally, for subdivisions we have considered what the Official Plan and Provincial Policy statements say, what the developer’s expert studies show, comments from residents at a public meeting, the developer’s responses to the community’s concerns, and then the development proceeds.  But it is clearly not that simple anymore.

Three types of an environmental assessments have been done on the Johnson Point development with differing results.  One recent study found that the Point is part of a candidate provincial Area of Natural and Scientific Interest, with at least one, or not two, identified species at risk.

Similarly, at least, three hydrogeological studies in the proposed Hartington subdivision have produced differing results. These results are also being weighed against the lived experience of many multi-generational families in the area.

As well as the technical studies, which contain inherent biases, there may be differing interests between land owners of the development site, developers, neighbours and the long-term health of South Frontenac. If nothing else there can be varying opinions on whether a subdivision is “compatible with adjacent areas”, an important criteria in the Office Plan.

A motion is currently being considered by Council on how to properly assess the developer’s expert studies so that the community’s interests are protected.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Defying the Doldrums of Summer

Posted on August 5, 2015 by Ross Sutherland

Defying the doldrums of summer the August Council meeting proved very effective at moving forward some important issues.

More Open Budget Process

For the first-time the Township’s budget process will include input from the public. At the September 8 meeting all residents are invited to tell the Council what they think should be in the 2016 budget. What should we be funding? What do we currently spend money on that we shouldn’t? Tell us your general comments on the Township’s finances, for example, the organization of reserves, taxes, and investments. To present your comments on the Township’s budget call the Township office, 613-376-3027 to make a deputation or submit your comments in writing to the Township office.

Public delegations on the budget will be heard September 8, at 7pm, in the Council chambers. All welcome.

Partially Maintained Roads

The August 4 meeting received a legal report on the Township’s obligations for road maintenance: it is a mixture of precedent, legal requirements, reasonableness, conscious decision making and the use of the road. We now have a list of 45 roads that the Township has a responsibility for but only partially maintains. More importantly, we have taken the first step in improving service by extending winter maintenance to 14 roads with permanent residents. More will happen gradually, over time, as finances allow.

A special thanks to the residents on Little Long Lake Road West and Norman Lane for moving this agenda forward, especially the Norman Lane residents who, unfortunately, will receive limited benefit from the approach taken by Council.

Solar Power

At the mid-summer council meeting the Township fully entered the age of renewable energy production giving our endorsement to two larger solar farms and 25 smaller FIT projects.

The Township will benefit from a significant increase in income directly to the Township and to local residents. These kinds of developments will decentralize the power grid making it more stable, and, with the falling costs of renewables, help keep us from investing in more, very expensive and environmentally damaging, nuclear power.

As importantly, moving to solar power will help address climate change. The big effects of climate change, droughts, increased disease burden, more severe weather events, rising sea levels, also manifest at the local level in threats to our lakes and natural environment. More invasive species, including ticks – west nile virus and zebra mussels -, algae blooms not directly related to phosphate levels and greater water level fluctuations leading to shoreline erosion, are some immediate local concerns influenced by climate change.

One misconception that circulated during the discussion about solar energy was that installing a solar facility changed the zoning of the land to industrial. The zoning does not change with the installation of solar panels: if it was residential it stays residential, if rural it stays rural.

While none of the projects is guaranteed funding the Township has made a step forward in combating climate change, protecting our future and joining in the transition to a low carbon energy economy.

Official Plan Public Meeting

The official Public Meeting to hear deputations on our Official Plan is Tuesday, August 11 at 7 pm in the council chambers. Come along and present your thoughts on what should be in South Frontenac’s Official Plan so that development works for the residents of South Frontenac.

Johnson Point

The independent peer review of the Environmental Impact Assessment of the Johnson Point development was presented to the August Council meeting. The peer review raised many concerns including a potential violation of the Endangered Species Act. Council has referred the road development on Johnson Point the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry for an investigation of a potential violation of the Endangered Species Act.

South Frontenac Museum

South Frontenac will be opening its own museum celebrating our rich heritage. The museum is located in Hartington at 5595 Road 38, the corner with Boyce Road and Holleford Road. The official opening ceremonies are at 11 am, August 15: everyone welcome.

I would like to know your opinion on any of the above issues as well as any other concerns you may have. Please give me a call, 613-532-7846, or send me an email.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Water, Sun and Construction – Summer Comes to South Frontenac

Posted on June 30, 2015 by Ross Sutherland

Council’s focus in June reflected our desire for summer to return (remember we hit 30 degrees in early May).

Sydenham Water

Besides some roads, the Sydenham water system may be the largest piece of infrastructure owned by the Township. While the objective is to make it pay for itself, if it fails, or drives businesses and people out of Sydenham, the liability falls back on the whole Township.  The system has been contentious from day one, now is the time to come together and make the system work for Sydenham.

In response to a recent staff report I moved that the contentious 25 dollar per month “penalty “fee paid by residents who have not hooked up be eliminated. This fee was on top of the full 706 dollars a year – over 900 next year -they, as all water users, pay.  Going forward, all residents who front on the waters lines will pay the same, similarly all businesses will pay the same business rate.

The next step is to come to an agreement on two questions: how much of the plant’s capacity is being used? and, now that we have provided safe drinking water to people’s property line, if they choose to drink their own well water, or bottled water, rather the Township’s water is there any further township liability?

Solar Developments

At the last Council meeting we supported 24 of 25 FIT solar projects (less than 5 acres and 500 Kilowatts).  Two of the three Sun Edison projects were withdrawn by the developer after a large public meeting in Harrowsmith.  One more, off of Battersea Road, has been proposed by Bonfield Construction.  The two large solar projects will be voted on no later than the August 4 Council meeting.

I have canvased many of the neighbours next to the Loughborough sites.  Most were generally supportive of solar energy and raised legitimate concerns about possible effects on property values, landscape views, wetlands and wildlife; and the use the herbicides and the loss of farmland.  Provincial regulations and commitments from developers seem to address most of these. Please contact me and I would be happy to talk in detail about any of them.

Some people have criticized the solar farms for paying the Township money.  Solar farms should increase the Township’s income.  This is same benefit we gain from subdivision developments. It seems likely that the proposed solar developments could pay an amount equivalent to the taxes from a 30-50 home, non-waterfront, subdivision.  The real question is how we control them to improve the Township.

Broader issues for me (and many in the community) were that, like Bruce nuclear, the gas pants and some water power, we were supporting more for-profit electricity generation.  Similarly, while the regulations and commitments may be good, without a strong public service to enforce them will we be struck with unsightly projects?

These are important questions and I would be happy to work with anyone to develop a better provincial energy policy. In the end these are not the issues South Frontenac Council will be voting on. Rather we must decide if, on balance, do these, as any development, benefit the Township, local residents and help reduce climate change.

Road Construction

The old joke that Canada has two seasons, winter and road construction, certainly applies to South Frontenac.   For a relatively large rural township we have a pretty good road system and the Public Works department is getting better at forecasting when road work will be done, consulting the affected community on big projects and making this information publicly available.  If you have any concerns about your Township roads please call me or the Public Works department.

Sydenham Football Field

Yes, it looks like the repair and upgrade of the field is acutely going to happen.  The contract has been let.  It came in at 196 thousand dollars more than budgeted. This cost will be shared with the School Board and will be spread over two years to minimize the impact on taxes.  This is money well spent to keep this a wonderful recreation space in Sydenham.

Updates and Upcoming meetings

The revised recommendations on partially maintained roads are scheduled to come to Council on August 4.

Recommendations on parking and a possible one way street in Sydenham will be presented to a public meeting on July 28.

An updated draft of the official plan to incorporate new provincial legislative policies and a number of Township-initiated changes will be presented to an Open House, Monday, July 13 at 7:00 pm, at the Municipal Council Chambers. I would encourage you to become familiar with the issues and make comments on any areas of concern in a letter or in person by August 11 when the formal public meeting will be held.

I would like to know your opinion on any of the above issues as well as any other concerns you may have.  Please give me a call, 613-532-7846, or send me an email.

I look forward to seeing you around the township.

HAPPY CANADA DAY,

Ross.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Plans, Power and Potholes

Posted on May 28, 2015 by Ross Sutherland

 Strategic Plan

I was skeptical of the process, but South Frontenac has a new strategic plan and I think it will be good for South Frontenac.  The new strategic plan adds weight to four forward-looking concerns:

  • More resident engagement in council decisions: both information out to residents and greater opportunities for residents to be involved in the discussion;
  • Greater protection lakes and wetlands;
  • A recognition of climate change and a commitment to support more energy conservation and renewable energy;
  • The strengthening the hamlets.

These new initiatives build on our commitment to a fiscally responsible township that delivers good services. While the strategic plan is not binding, it gives staff and Councillors issues to address when they are developing policy.

Solar Power

On top of the two large solar farms, each near or over 100 acres, in the last month we have had applications for 14 FIT projects: projects that typically occupy between 5 and 7 acres and produce under 500 kilowatts of power.

These projects are scattered around the township.  I took the opportunity to visits many residents in Loughborough who live beside the proposed projects.  Their main concerns were: the view, they did not want to look at even a small field of solar panels; pesticide use in controlling weeds; and, some specific concerns about harm to roads and lanes.  I have raised these concerns with the developers.  I have also proposed that we have a processing fee of 300 dollars for each project due to the staff time necessary to review the developments and bring motions to Council.  Council has chosen, correctly in my mind, to review each project individually, rather than approve, in advance, all small solar developments.

As much as I support the transition to renewable energy, solar developments, as all developments, should be subject to community scrutiny and expected to reasonably accommodate community concerns.

The real problem we are facing is that a lot happening very quickly. Some guidance to local municipalities on what provincial regulations will require of small solar developments, how they will be enforced, what would be reasonable fees to change solar developers, and what would be reasonable financial agreements, or at least factors to consider, when negotiating long-term agreements with the large solar farms, would have made our job easier.

A provincially coordinated approach would also keep municipalities from competing against each other, reduce uncertainly for developers, and limit the strain on local staff resources when many of the issues are predictable and province wide. Small municipalities are also at a disadvantage when negotiating with the well-financed large corporations that are privileged in the process.

Waste Diversion

The Public Works manager has reported back that a reasonable guess at our local waste diversion rate is about 24%.  This rate would be close to the provincial average, but it is worth noting that Ontario has the third worst recycling average in Canada.  PEI, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick are all over 35%.  Kingston diverts 56% of its garbage.

Council is concerned about these low numbers.  I have proposed a subcommittee of Councillors and residents to work with the Public Works Department to develop a plan to increase the amount of waste diverted from the dumps.  No action has yet been taken.

Sydenham Parking and Water    

Over the next few months Sydenham will be receiving lots of attention. Staff will be bringing forward recommendations on Sydenham’s water system and, at the last Committee of the Whole, a proposal for parking restrictions and enforcement in the hamlet was presented.  A public meeting on parking will be held over the summer.

Cycle Fest – June 7, 10-3, at Loughborough Public School

This free event, open to all member of the community, will celebrate cycling in South Frontenac.  It is designed for young cyclists who can participate in the cycling skills course and for more seasoned road trippers.  Everyone can enjoy the free BBQ after a morning of good cycling.

Road Repair and Speed Limits 

The Public Works Department has produced a five-year plan for road repairs and a proposal for speed reductions on 20 roads.  Call me to see if your road is affected or go to the May 26 Committee of the Whole Agenda on the Townships website: https://southfrontenac.civicweb.net/Documents/DocumentList.aspx?ID=14654

I would like to know your opinion on any of the above issues as well as any other concerns you may have.  Please give me a call, 613-532-7846, or send me an email.

I look forward to seeing you around the township.

Ross.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Sun, Sand and Cycling

Posted on April 30, 2015 by Ross Sutherland

Spring has sprung on South Frontenac Council with sun, sand and cycling high on the agenda.

Sun: South Frontenac a Solar Energy Powerhouse?

In the last month three proposals for large solar energy projects have been presented to Council.  Sun Edison, a large American multi-national power company, is the potential developer of the two most serious proposals: one located on Florida Road (15 MGW), and the other Alton and Highway 38 (31 MGW).  .  Council has asked for community consultation beyond the minimum required, expanded setbacks from the wetland on Wilton Creek, and a beneficial monetary agreement.  There will be public meetings on both projects within the next month or so.  If you are interested or have concerns please come out or give me a call.

The province’s new renewable energy program prioritizes larger projects awarded on a competitive biding basis.  Most of the site plan conditions are provincially mandated but the Township’s power comes from the fact that bids with higher points for community consolation, a resolution of support from the Township Council and a financial agreement with the Township, are more likely to win and be paid more.  Ontario Sustainability Services estimates that a developer of a 20 Megawatt project could earn an extra 20 million dollars in revenue over 20 years if they maximize their community points.

While I am happy to see expanded solar coming to South Frontenac if the province favoured projects run by local organizations and residents more of the benefits would go to area residents.

Sand: “The Point Park” Renovation

A lively public meeting was held in Sydenham on changes to The Point Park.  The message heard loud and clear was that having sand close by the water is desired.  As the consultant pointed out sand beaches on points are not usually natural and ours is not.  The beach only has sand because loads of sand are dumped yearly into the lake.   Also, the Conservation Authority has said enough is enough: come up with a plan that stabilizes the shoreline. By the end of the meeting a general compromise was emerging that the in-water beach would be smooth pea gravel and close by, but separated from the water by a barrier, would be an upland sand beach where kids can play.  This had support at the Committee of the Whole and will be coming forward to Council.

On a related note, there is still no formal agreement on the repair of the football field.  A letter from The Mayor to the Chair of the School Board prompted a response that an agreement is being drafted and the School Board is moving forward with plans for a tender to fix the field.  The main concern is that construction start in time, by mid-July, so that only one season of sports activities is missed.

Cycling – June 7 Cycle Fest

South Frontenac Rides is now a formal committee of Council. On June 7, from 10-3, at the Loughborough School SF Rides is planning the first annual “Tour de South Frontenac Cycle Fest”: a family friendly festival of cycling events including a bike rodeo, cycle routes and a free BBQ, parking lot.  Bring you kids, family and friends and enjoy a day of community cycling.  Over the next year you can also help develop a complete system of cycle routes around the Township and suggest changes to Council to make cycling safer and more accessible.

Upcoming

Sydenham Water

A consolidation of the bylaws on the Sydenham water plant will be coming to Council in the next couple of months. This will present an opportunity to revisit the rate structure. Any comments you have on the way forward are very much appreciated.

Waste Diversion / Recycling Rate – 14%?

The annual consultant’s report on our dumps said that the volume of material being recycled is declining and our recycling diversion rate is between 4% and 14%.  This figure was disputed by the public works manager who will be bringing a report back on our waste diversion efforts.  Even at twice the rate reported (28% diversion) the figure is unacceptably low.  The current projected life span of the dumps is: Loughborough 9 years; Portland 29 years; Bradshaw 12 years; Green Bay 21 years and Salem 11 years.

The Official Plan

A schedule for public comment on changes to the Township’s Official Plan will be coming soon.  Please send me any changes you think are needed. While arcane, the Official Plan is a crucial document shaping how our Township will look in the future.

I welcome your opinion on any of the above issues as well as any other concerns you may have.  Please give me a call, 613-532-7846, or send me an email.

I look forward to seeing you around the township.

Ross.

p.s. You have received this email it is because we have discussed Township issues. If you do not wish to receive more emails please send me a note and I will take you off the list. I plan to send about one report a month. Also, if you know of someone who might like to receive this information please pass along their names.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Johnson Point , Solar Farms and Roads

Posted on March 26, 2015 by Ross Sutherland

The most contested issue this month has been the proposed for Johnson Point development on the East Basin of Loughborough Lake.

A growing number of residents have been expressing concerns about the number of lots; increased boat traffic on Long Bay, a provincially significant wetland; increased road traffic on North Shore Road; and, the sense of putting any development on that Point.

Most councillors still feel there are questions that need to be answered before a decision can be made.  I presented a motion with 10 concerns I felt had not been adequately addressed and Councillor Roberts presented a motion calling for another Environmental Impact Assessment.

Rather than try and work with community the developer responded by referring the development to the Ontario Municipal Board – essentially “thumbing his nose” at local concerns.

An underlying reason why Council and the community are struggling with this lake development is that most of the good development sites on lakes are gone and we are left considering developments on significant wetlands on increasingly crowded lakes – not ideal sites.

When we look back on planning decisions 50 years ago, rows of cottages with marginal sewage systems on the lake’s edge, we can see the long term results of planning errors – hind sight is perfect, but we would hope that our ability to foresee would also be increasing.  The official plan calls for limited full time residential development on lakes.   The east basin already has over 300 lots and 55% of these are full time residents.  There are legitimate reasons to be concerned about this development.

Also, Lakes are common property of all residents in South Frontenac.  Maintaining reasonable levels of development keeps lake available for everyone to use with limited conflict between lake front owners and other township residents.

South Frontenac is currently experiencing significant development pressure with at least 7 possible new subdivisions.  Most of these are not on lakes and involve a significantly higher number of moderately priced lots than the 14 very expensive lots on Johnson Point that pose a threat to a valuable community resource.  I fully support Councils decision to take some more time to fully examine all the impacts of the Johnson Point development.

Solar Farms Coming To South Frontenac?

Council has had two deputations from large energy firms to development solar farms in South Frontenac. The most advanced is from Sun Edison to develop a 100 acer, 15 megawatt, solar farm just south of Harrowsmith.  The company seems open to adequate community consultation and a community compensation agreement.  Council indicated initial support for these developments.

Partially Maintained Roads and Maintenance Schedules

The pre-amalgamation townships left us with a hodgepodge of roads with all sorts of informal maintenance regimes.  My favourite is the five roads where we provide winter plowing but no summer maintenance, I am still are not quite sure how that works. The public works department has undertaken an important initiative to identify all the Township roads, what services we have traditionally supplied, and what are the township’s responsibilities. We cannot know how to improve service and meet our legal obligations if we do not know what is out there.

This will be a multi-year process.  My objectives in the near-term are to keep the level of service we have been providing, involve residents in identifying their priorities for improvement, move as quickly as possible to winter maintenance on all Township roads that have full time residents, and work out a fair and gradual plan to improve underserviced township roads without unduly increasing costs.

Sydenham Point Park and the Football Field

This will be a big year for improving recreation facilities in Sydenham.  The Point Park shoreline will be stabilized.  A public meeting to hear resident’s comments on the project will be held within the next month, watch for the exact date.  The Township and the School Board are close to an agreement to repair the football field which will close the field for a year starting this summer.

South Frontenac Rides

I have presented a motion to council to make South Frontenac Rides an official committee of Council.  The next meeting of the group is Monday, March 30, 7pm in the Council chambers, everyone is welcome.  The South Frontenac Bike festival will be on June 7.

I would like to know your opinion on any of the above issues as well as any other concerns you may have.  Please give me a call, 613-532-7846, or send me an email.

I look forward to seeing you around the township.

Ross.

 

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Budgets and Biking

Posted on March 2, 2015 by Ross Sutherland

February was a good month for winter activities in South Frontenac.  While the pike were less than cooperative the ice fishers were abundant. Snow conditions were perfect for skiing and snowmobiling.  A group of residents organized the first annual Perth Road Winter Olympics – a wonderful afternoon of snowshoeing, fat biking, snow ball fights and biathlon competitions. And there was excellent chili.

The Budget

Your council has also been active. We approved a 28 million dollar budget for 2015-16. This was the first municipal budget for half the Councillors and it went relatively smoothly. Most expenses seem to be grounded in a reasonable long term plan. Two exceptions were the Perth Road Fire hall expense and the hog weed control plans.

Money was approved for a new Perth Road Fire Hall, South Frontenac’s first fire hall built as a fire hall. The problem is that there is no overall plan for what fire services South Frontenac is likely to need in fourty years and how the new Perth Road Station fits into those plans.  After some discussions we agreed to have a conceptual long term plan for fire services before we finalize the halls design and identify the property – there are many advantages to keeping it Perth Road village. The goal is to have the shovel in the ground this year.

The better part of $50,000 is tagged for expanded road side mowing and herbicide spraying to control Giant Hog Weed (Cow Parsnip).  Rather than just responding reflexively to an emerging problem, I will be bringing forward a motion to develop a long term plan to most effectively use Township resources to protect people and the environment.

Other budget items include:

  • $10,000 for small grants to community groups. I tried to increase the amount available  to $30,000 but most Councillors felt there was not enough interest in the program to justify more money.  I would encourage everyone involved with the community to check out the program (http://www.southfrontenac.net/en/town-hall/Community-Project-Grant.asp) and apply if you have a project that could benefit from Township funding.
  • I have also made a proposal to increase community input into next year’s budget through a public meeting before it’s approved.
  • Funds were allocated to replace the Otter Lake culvert on Salmon Lake road, micro-surface parts of Perth Road to reduce skidding, and finish the retaining walls at the corner of Stage Coach and Rutledge roads.
  • There is enough money in the budget if that Council decides, after public consultation,  to snow plow the partially maintained Township roads then it can start next winter
  • We also added $40,000 dollars to the grant program to improve private roads for emergency access

South Frontenac Rides

Eighteen hardy folks braved a cold February night to start the South Frontenac Rides program, an initiative dedicated to improving and promoting bicycling in South Frontenac.  The group is planning a bike festival in June to highlight  biking in our community. The next meeting is March 9, 7 pm in the Township Council Chambers. It is open to everyone.

The Strategic Plan

In your interim tax bill you will get receive a notice asking for input into the Township’s Strategic Plan for the next four years.  I would encourage you to send in your comments or come to one of the public meeting to make your views known. Loughborough’s meeting is Thursday, March 26 at 7:00 pm in the Council Chambers, 4432 George St, Sydenham. The Strategic Plan will identify the Township’s priorities for the next four years.

Johnson Point Development

The public meeting on the Johnson Point condominium development on Loughborough Lake will be in the Council Chambers starting at 6 pm on March 3. This will be the last chance for public input before Council considers the development. I continue to have concerns about the impact of the development on the adjacent provincially significant wetland and the overall health of Loughborough Lake.

The extra time taken to consider the Johnson Point Project has identified some interesting questions that were missed in earlier reports.  If nothing else, this process has shown the benefits of extending public notice for these complex developments to achieve the best development possible.

The Official Plan

Central to what municipal governments do, is the arcane, but crucial process of planning.  We are re-entering the debate with the province on our new official plan.  Now is the time for your comments on building setbacks from water bodies, density of housing, infilling hamlets, alternative potable water sources, condominiumizing of private roads, and many other issues central to the Township.

As always, I look forward to your comments on these and other important issues.

Yours sincerely,

Ross

 

 

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Plans, Budgets and Community Initiatives

Posted on February 2, 2015 by Ross Sutherland

South Frontenac Township Council is just starting two process that will help shape the Township for the next few years.

The Strategic Plan

Council has agreed to develop a strategic plan for the next four years.  The plan, while not binding, has more than moral significance. Staff will be expected in consider the plan’s priorities when making proposals to Council and when implementing Council decisions.

I would strongly encourage you to tell Council your main priorities for the Township.  Lake health; decreasing inequality; better services for seniors and adults with disadvantages; controlled development; conservation, renewables and climate change; increased recreational activities; and, upgrading lanes and partially maintained Township roads are a few of the ideas that could be included. I am sure there are many more you can identify.

To make your priorities known to Council: 1) attend the Loughborough open house on March 26, and/or 2) write a short (or long) note to the Township on the priorities for the next four years.  I would appreciate it if you would send me a copy of your comments so I am aware of the specific concerns of Loughborough residents.

The Budget

Ove the next month we will be finalizing next year’s budget.  Our all-day budget meeting is February 7.  We have seen a draft capital budget which includes 2.2 million dollars to replace the Perth Fire Hall. There is also talk of increasing the grants available to improve private lanes, increasing the grants for community improvement and increasing service on partially maintained township roads.

Recreation Facilities

The draft budget also contains proposals for new playground equipment at the Wilmer Road Park ($40,000 dollars), shoreline repairs to the Sydenham Point Park ($100,000) and repairs to the Sydenham football field playing surface ($50,000).  The Shoreline repair would build rock retaining walls for the non-beach areas and replace the sand beaches that are currently being washed away with pea gravel. My proposal that there be sand play areas close to the beaches had been supported by the Recreation Committee and was positively received by Council.  The football field redo is contingent upon the School Board matching the funds.

Updates:

Congratulations to John Sherbino on being elected Loughborough’s citizen appointee to the Committee of Adjustment.  Mikes Howes will continue to chair the Loughborough Recreation Committee.  The residents who volunteer many hours on these committees deserve our collective thanks.

Monday, February 16 at 7pm the first meeting of the Bicycle Routes Working Group will be held in the Sydenham Township Hall.  The group is a committee of residents who would like to identify and promote a series of bicycle routes in the area.  It is open to anyone who would like to attend. Please contact me for more information.

Saturday, February 21, from noon till 4pm, at Perth Road School, a group of Residents is holding the first ever Perth Road Winter Olympics.  It is described as an annual community building event to promote physical activity during a more challenging time of the year.  Among other events there is a winter costume competition, a biathlon with various non-lethal weapons, like potato guns, and boot hockey. It is meant for all ages, open to everyone and promises to be a lot of fun.  Check out the event’s Facebook page and come along.

The Johnson Point open house and public delegations to Council is on March 3.  A decision on this development will be made shortly after that meeting.

I would like to know your opinion on any of the above issues as well as any other concerns you may have.  Please give me a call, 613-532-7846, or send me an email.

I look forward to seeing you around the township.

Ross.

 

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment