Hearst public meetings in 2021
84 substantive meetings from 2021, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Special Meeting of Council
This is a special meeting of the Hearst Town Council, held on December 22, 2021. The agenda consists of routine procedural items and a single closed-session discussion on human resources. No public decisions or substantive agenda items are listed.
- Closed session on human resources
Special Meeting of Council
Hearst council is holding a special meeting to decide on two financial items: signing a FedNor contribution agreement for up to $140,325 to cover municipal airport operating costs, and approving an additional $34,246.50 (plus HST) for road repairs on Marchildon and Gaspésie roads. A closed session on human resources is also scheduled.
- FedNor contribution of $140,325 for René-Fontaine municipal airport operating costs (April 2020–March 2021)
- Additional budget allocation of $34,246.50 plus HST for Marchildon and Gaspésie road repairs, bringing total to $356,146.50 plus HST
- Existing contract with Villeneuve Construction Co. Ltd. for $321,900 plus HST (By-law 58-2021)
- Closed session on human resources
Regular Meeting of Council
At this regular meeting, Hearst Council will receive presentations on the Hearst Campus business plan from Collège Boréal and the proposed Industrial Community Improvement Plan, followed by a public meeting on the plan. Council will also adopt minutes from four recent meetings and receive reports from various committees and boards.
- Presentation of Hearst Campus business plan by Collège Boréal
- Presentation and public meeting on the Industrial Community Improvement Plan
- Adoption of minutes from special meetings on Nov 15, 17, 23 and regular meeting on Nov 16, 2021
- Correspondence includes NORDS Fund, teen driver safety, 911 call report, Hydro One pole replacement
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee is recommending two resolutions for council approval: a 36-month IT management services agreement with Rock Solid Computer Services, and a by-law to borrow up to $51,518 from Caisse Alliance to finance the owner's share of the West Street and Vanier, Frost, and Laurier Place local improvement project. The IT contract follows a call for tenders that scored Rock Solid highest at 100%, with a monthly cost of $2,975.44 (total $107,151.84). The loan is repayable over 10 years with annual principal payments of $5,151.80 from 2022 to 2031.
- Resolution to authorize IT management services agreement with Rock Solid Computer Services for 36 months at $2,975.44/month ($107,151.84 total)
- Call for tenders for IT services received 6 bids; Rock Solid scored 100%, followed by Unique Data Systems (84%), Hannatech (83%), Bercell (82%), Pathway (80%), Tecnor (64%)
- By-law to borrow up to $51,518 from Caisse Alliance for West Street and Vanier, Frost, and Laurier Place local improvement project
- Loan repayable in 10 annual installments of $5,151.80 from 2022 to 2031, with interest at Caisse's Minimum Lending Rate
- Property owners who did not pay upfront will have a fixed annual fee added to their property tax bills
Economic Development Committee
The Economic Development Committee is recommending a resolution to authorize production and installation of sponsor stickers for the Town of Hearst's 100th anniversary on municipal vehicle tailgates and projection of sponsors on the Giroux skating rink's central screen. The sponsorship plan raised $146,170 from 49 sponsors, and the committee is discussing a modification to display only certain sponsor categories on highway billboards.
- Resolution to authorize sponsor stickers on municipal vehicle tailgates
- Projection of sponsors on central screen of Giroux skating rink
- Sponsorship plan raised $146,170 from 49 sponsors
- Billboards on Highway 11 to show only Privileged and Platinum sponsor categories
- Sticker costs estimated at $185-$230 per truck; screen design about $190
Policy Committee
The Policy Committee is recommending that Council adopt a COVID-19 vaccination policy for municipal employees, volunteers, contractors, and elected officials, effective January 1, 2022. The policy requires proof of vaccination or weekly rapid testing for unvaccinated individuals, with costs covered by the employer. The committee is also recommending renewals of contracts for emergency phone answering and janitorial services, and several administrative items.
- By-law to adopt Town of Hearst Vaccination Policy, effective Jan 1, 2022
- By-law to renew emergency telephone answering services agreement with Christine Pominville (Communicaction)
- By-law to renew Town Hall janitorial services contract with Ana Pereira
- Resolution to support Mattice-Val Côté's request to reconsider postponed Ontario property assessments
- Resolution to authorize payment of Mayor Sigouin's travel expenses for Ontario Northland Test Train trip (Nov 22, 2021)
Planning Committee
The Hearst Planning Committee is meeting to discuss several planning items, including the draft Industrial Community Improvement Plan (CIP), an amendment to the Sale of Land By-law No. 73-07, a Site Plan Control Guide from the Ministry, and building permit activity reports. The committee will also receive information on these items and make recommendations to Council. The agenda includes a public meeting scheduled for December 7, 2021, to discuss the Industrial CIP.
- Draft Industrial Community Improvement Plan (CIP) with financial incentive programs for industrial development
- Amendment to Sale of Land By-law No. 73-07
- Site Plan Control Guide from Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
- Building permit activities comparison (October 2020 vs. October 2021, November 2020 vs. November 2021)
- Public meeting on December 7, 2021, for the Industrial CIP
Special Meeting of Council
This is a special meeting of Hearst Town Council to swear in new council members and discuss appointments to committees, advisory committees, local commissions, and regional boards. The appointment discussion will occur in a closed brainstorming session. The meeting will also adopt a confirmatory by-law.
- Swearing in of new council members
- Appointment of council members to committees and boards (closed session)
- Adoption of confirmatory by-law
Police Services Board
The Hearst Police Services Board is meeting to discuss ongoing projects including recruitment of bilingual officers, excessive speed in school zones, and a proposal for heavy vehicle parking during Highway 11 closures. The board will also hear the OPP detachment report and address new subjects such as nuisance bears and human trafficking concerns.
- Proposal for heavy truck parking on Villeneuve Construction land near Highway 11, with snow clearing cost of $5,900
- OPP recruitment event in Hearst on September 29 to identify Francophone candidates
- Speed complaints on Blais Road; patrols to be conducted
- Lifesaver Project referred to 2022 capital budget
- Discussion on human trafficking concerns at Constance Lake First Nation
Special Meeting of Council
This is a special meeting of the Hearst Town Council. The main item is the appointment of municipal councillors, followed by the adoption of a confirmatory by-law. The agenda is otherwise procedural.
- Appointment of municipal councillors
- Adoption of confirmatory by-law
Regular Meeting of Council
This is a regular meeting of Hearst Town Council. The agenda is largely procedural: adopting minutes, receiving correspondence, and adopting reports from the Operations, Parks and Recreation, Finance, and Policy committees. A notable item is the resignation of Councillor Morin, which will be considered.
- Correspondence from Ontario Energy Board re: natural gas rate modification request
- Correspondence from Miguel Dallaire re: vaccination policy
- Adoption of Operations Committee report (Nov 9, 2021)
- Adoption of Parks and Recreation Committee report (Nov 11, 2021)
- Resignation of Councillor Morin (letter dated Nov 10, 2021)
Special Meeting of Council
This is a special meeting of the Hearst Town Council. The main item is a closed-session meeting with the Hearst Non-Profit Housing Corporation, likely to discuss housing matters. The agenda includes only procedural items and this closed session, with no public decisions listed.
- Closed session with Hearst Non-Profit Housing Corporation
- Adoption of confirmatory by-law
Parks and Recreation Committee
The Parks and Recreation Committee is recommending that council rename La Limite Hall and officially name the downtown culture park "Parc des nations." It also recommends authorizing a $25,000 repair of the recreation centre's ice surface freezing system by CIMCO, funded from budget surpluses.
- Resolution to change the name of La Limite Hall
- Resolution to officially name the culture park on former Queen's Hotel land "Parc des nations"
- Resolution to authorize CIMCO to repair the recreation centre's ice freezing system at a cost of $25,000 plus taxes
- Repair addresses a saltwater leak under the Claude-Giroux rink, with leak rate up to 20 gallons per day
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee is recommending council adopt a by-law to update the town's salary administration program, which has not been revised since 1991, with an estimated cost of $437,000 if implemented in one year. The committee also recommends approving a five-year banking services contract with Caisse Alliance, a $127,020 contribution to address physician shortages, and several write-offs. Other items include information on OPP cost recovery, the Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund, and a new interest charge on overdue accounts.
- Adopt By-law 7-21 to amend salary scale, effective Jan 1, 2022, cost $437,000 (one-year) or ~$190,000/year (three-year)
- Approve 5-year banking services agreement with Caisse Alliance
- Place $127,020 in 2022 budget for 50% of locum doctors clinic operating costs
- Cancel $2,328 in unpaid out-of-province parking tickets
- Cancel $4,981.07 in 2021 property taxes for Custom Sawmill
Policy Committee
The Policy Committee is reviewing a delegation on the childcare space shortage, a proposed Covid-19 vaccination policy, a councillor appointment, and a CUPE request for an OMERS investment review. The agenda also lists ongoing reviews of business licensing by-laws and travel expense policy. Items are recommendations to be tabled at a public council meeting.
- Delegation on childcare space shortage, including letters from parents and Foyer des Pionniers employees
- Resolution to adopt a municipal by-law for a Covid-19 vaccination policy
- Resolution to appoint a municipal councillor (closed meeting)
- Resolution to support CUPE's request for independent third-party review of OMERS investment performance
- Ongoing review of business licensing by-laws (Oct 2015) and travel expense policy (June 2020)
Operations Committee
The Operations Committee will consider a by-law establishing fire response fees and an agency agreement with Fire Marque Inc. to recover costs from insurers for fire calls. It will also review proposed changes to the Lifeline program, renew an emergency radio broadcasting agreement, and decide on a $657,400 Connecting Links funding application. Two work-in-progress items (drinking water treatment strategy, septic dumping station) are listed without new action.
- By-law to establish fire response fees based on MTO rates, per-firefighter rates, and other costs
- Agency agreement with Fire Marque Inc. (30% commission) for insurance cost recovery
- Funding application for $657,400 under Connecting Links Program, with $65,700 municipal share
- Request to MTO to change passing lines to double solid lines on Highway 11 West between railroad crossing and Cloutier Road
- Renewal of agreement with les Médias de l'épinette noire for emergency radio broadcasting
Special Meeting of Council
This is a special meeting of the Hearst Town Council. The only substantive item is a closed-session meeting with the Hearst Non-Profit Housing Corporation. No decisions or public discussions are listed on the agenda.
- Closed session with Hearst Non-Profit Housing Corporation
Regular Meeting of Council
This is the agenda for the Town of Hearst's regular Council meeting on October 26, 2021. Council will consider reports from the Operations and Planning Committees, including the appointment of volunteer firefighters and the purchase and installation of a generator at the Public Works garage. The agenda also includes routine items such as adopting minutes, receiving correspondence, and a closed session for potential litigation.
- Appointment of volunteer firefighters (report from Fire Chief dated Oct 20, 2021)
- Purchase and installation of generator at Public Works garage (report from Director of Public Works dated Oct 20, 2021)
- Adoption of Planning Committee report dated Oct 21, 2021
- Adoption of Policy Committee report dated Oct 20, 2021
- Closed meeting for potential litigation affecting the municipality
Planning Committee
The Planning Committee is recommending that Council pass resolutions stating no objection to four consent applications before the Hearst Planning Board. These include two lot additions on Johnson's Lake Road, and a lot reinstatement and a lot addition on Highway 583 North. The committee will also receive information on building permit activities.
- Lot addition of ~35 acres to 29 Johnson's Lake Road (Kenny Morin and Lisa Collin)
- Lot addition of ~22 acres to 25 Johnson's Lake Road (Dale Goodfellow)
- Reinstate parcel at 200 Highway 583 North to conveyable status (Patrice Lacroix)
- Lot addition to property at 200 Highway 583 North (Patrice Lacroix)
- Building permit activities summary, September 2020 vs. September 2021
Policy Committee
The Policy Committee is reviewing several items for recommendation to Council, including a possible employee vaccination policy, a face-covering policy amendment, and procedures to fill a vacant council seat. They will also consider adopting a community safety plan, a funding agreement for First Nations evacuees, and a $20,000 land purchase near the airport. The committee made no formal recommendations on the vaccination and face-covering items, opting instead for a round-table discussion at the October 26th Council meeting.
- Discussion of a municipal employee COVID-19 vaccination policy, with no recommendation; round-table at Oct 26 Council meeting
- Discussion on amending the face-covering policy within Council's compound; no recommendation; round-table at Oct 26 Council meeting
- Resolution to declare Councillor Ringuette's seat vacant following his resignation effective Oct 15, 2021; discussion on how to fill the seat
- By-law to adopt the Hearst and Mattice-Val Côté Community Safety and Well-Being Plan
- By-law to authorize purchase of land north of the airport landing strips for $20,000
Regular Meeting of Council
This is a regular meeting of the Hearst Town Council. The agenda includes adopting minutes from previous meetings, receiving correspondence from various organizations, and reviewing reports from several committees and boards. The council will also consider appointments to the Hearst Public Library Board and discuss human resources in a closed session.
- Adoption of minutes from September 14 and September 21, 2021 meetings
- Correspondence from Ministry of Transportation re: 2022-23 Connecting Links Program
- Reports from Police Services Board, Porcupine Health Unit, Long-term Care Committee, and others
- Appointment of director to Hearst Public Library Board
- Closed meeting for human resources discussion
Parks and Recreation Committee
The Parks and Recreation Committee will consider a recommendation to deny a request from the Fonds des enseignants, enseignantes et collègues retraité-e-s de Hearst to install a water station at Lecours Park. The committee will also receive information on ice surface schedules for the 2021-2022 season. The meeting is tabled for a public meeting of the Municipal Council.
- Recommendation to deny water station installation at Lecours Park due to lack of water service, high costs, and maintenance concerns
- Request from Fonds des enseignants, enseignantes et collègues retraité-e-s de Hearst to install a water station at Lecours Park
- Ice surfaces master schedules for 2021-2022 season presented for information
- Schedules include rinks at Rumun Ndur and Claude Giroux arenas
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee is recommending council authorize four capital projects using residual 2021 capital funds: a $50,000 acoustic study for the community pavilion, a $20,000 Lifesaver project, a $6,000 speed sensor, and a $23,000 additional cost for a generator at the Public Works garage. The committee will also consider amending the Town's Investment Policy, a $150 sponsorship for Théâtre Mauve Sapin, and note $2,165,480.10 in payments issued from the general account between August 5 and September 24, 2021.
- Acoustic study of community pavilion: $50,000
- Lifesaver project (dementia locator devices): $20,000
- Speed sensor (2nd): $6,000
- Generator at Public Works garage: $23,000 additional (total $83,000)
- Sponsorship to Théâtre Mauve Sapin: $150
Operations Committee
The Operations Committee is recommending that Council adopt a new by-law prohibiting snow deposit on sidewalks, roadways, ditches, and corner lots that obstruct visibility, with set fines of $90 for infractions. The committee also recommends proceeding with the reconstruction of St-Laurent, Pearson, and Flood Place, choosing between a standard replacement ($1.488M) or an urban standard project with sidewalks ($2.638M). Additionally, it recommends renewing a 5-year snow clearing agreement with Les Entreprises Forma-Jeunes Inc. and approving the annual drinking water system inspection report.
- New snow deposit by-law with $90 fines for depositing snow on roadway allowance, vacant land, adjacent to sidewalks, or causing visibility obstruction
- Reconstruction of St-Laurent, Pearson, and Flood Place: option 1 standard replacement at $1,488,000; option 2 urban standards with sidewalks at $2,638,000
- Renewal of snow clearing agreement with Les Entreprises Forma-Jeunes Inc. for 5 years, annual cost increasing from $10,364.54 to $10,623.65
- Approval of 2021 inspection report for Hearst Drinking Water System
- Water and wastewater systems operations report for July and August 2021
Special Meeting of Council
This is a special meeting of the Hearst Town Council. The main item is a closed-session meeting with the Hearst Non-Profit Housing Corporation, followed by adoption of a confirmatory by-law. No other substantive business is listed.
- Closed-session meeting with Hearst Non-Profit Housing Corporation
- Adoption of confirmatory by-law
Police Services Board
The Hearst Police Services Board is meeting to review ongoing projects and receive the detachment commander's report. Items include recruitment of bilingual officers, parking for heavy vehicles during road closures, speed enforcement in school zones, and police presence in schools. The board will also discuss the proposed amalgamation of police services boards in the James Bay region.
- Recruitment of bilingual personnel and assessment of police human resources needs from Cochrane to Greenstone
- Parking of heavy vehicles during road closures, including potential agreement with a property owner on Hwy 11
- Excessive speed in school zones and on municipal roads; speed radar installed on Tremblay Street, proposed for Johnson's Lake Road
- Lifesaver Project to be budgeted for next year, seeking cooperation from other municipalities
- Proposed amalgamation of Police Services Boards in James Bay region, potentially adding a member from Mattice
Regular Meeting of Council
This regular meeting of Hearst Town Council includes decisions on road repair contracts, a 20-year natural gas franchise agreement with Enbridge Gas, and amendments to parks and recreation fees. Council will also consider reports from committees and correspondence, including flag donations for the town's centennial. The agenda is largely procedural, with several routine approvals and adoptions of minutes and reports.
- Approval of $321,900 contract with Villeneuve Construction for Gaspésie and Marchildon road repairs
- Third reading of By-law 37-2021 for 20-year Enbridge Gas franchise agreement
- Renewal of Imperial Oil licence agreement for land at 616 Front Street for five years
- By-law 60-2021 amending parks and recreation rates, including new fees for open skating, pool lane rentals, and unpaid bills
- Free use of Hearst Place Pavilion for OPP recruiting event and francophone immigration support barbecue
Policy Committee
The Policy Committee is recommending that Council adopt by-laws authorizing two funding agreements with the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC): one for the Aventure Nord tourism marketing program and one for consulting costs related to the Industrial Community Improvement Plan. The committee also recommends salary adjustments and fringe benefit changes for non-union employees for 2021-2025, the creation of a Human Resources and Health & Safety Manager position, and the appointment of a director to the Foyer Hearst-Mattice board (to be discussed in closed session).
- Funding agreement with NOHFC for Aventure Nord tourism marketing program (project #8210337, max $48,375, 75% of eligible costs)
- Funding agreement with NOHFC for Industrial Community Improvement Plan consulting costs
- By-law to amend salary administration and fringe benefits for non-union employees, fiscal years 2021-2025
- By-law to amend By-law No. 28-91 to add a Human Resources and Health & Safety Manager position
- Appointment of a director to the Board of Foyer Hearst-Mattice Soins de santé (closed session)
Planning Committee
The Planning Committee is recommending that Council refuse a zoning amendment application from Nor Building Enterprises to permit outdoor storage on its Gaspésie Road property, after finding the use violates the zoning by-law. The committee also reviewed building permit activity summaries for July and August 2021 compared to the same months in 2020.
- Zoning amendment application denied for outdoor storage on Parcels 818CC, 12280CC, 12281CC, 12282CC, 12283CC, 12284CC, Gaspésie Road
- Application fee paid: $750
- Building permit activity: 111 permits issued year-to-date August 2021, total construction value $17,376,401
- Building permit activity: 82 permits issued year-to-date July 2021, total construction value $8,182,660
Special Meeting of Council
The Town of Hearst is holding a special council meeting to consider a by-law authorizing the renewal of its collective agreement with the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 1536 for the period January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2025. The discussion will occur in a closed meeting, followed by a vote on the by-law in open session.
- By-law 64-2021 to authorize renewal of collective agreement with CUPE Local 1536
- Agreement period: January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2025
- Mayor and Clerk authorized to sign and execute the agreement
- Closed meeting to discuss the CUPE agreement
Regular Meeting of Council
This is a regular meeting of Hearst Town Council. The agenda includes consideration of tax rebate requests, adoption of reports from the Operations, Parks and Recreation, and Finance committees, and appointment of directors to the Hearst Development Corporation. No public hearings or delegations are scheduled.
- Requests for tax rebates under the Municipal Act
- Adoption of Operations Committee report dated August 17, 2021
- Adoption of Parks and Recreation Committee report dated August 19, 2021
- Adoption of Finance Committee report dated August 18, 2021
- Appointment of directors on the Hearst Development Corporation
Parks and Recreation Committee
The Parks and Recreation Committee is recommending council renew a five-year licence with Imperial Oil to keep 616 Front Street as a green space, revise recreation user fees, and approve a $20,000 allocation to repair sprinklers at the Claude Larose Recreation Centre. It also recommends free community pavilion use for an OPP recruitment event and a francophone immigration group, and refusing a request to name exercise structures at Lecours Park 'Place NÈVAU'.
- Renew Imperial Oil licence for 616 Front Street green space for 5 years, no fee
- Revise parks and recreation user fees
- Free pavilion use for OPP recruitment event (late Sept 2021)
- Free pavilion use for Réseau du soutien à l'immigration francophone barbecue (Aug 14, 2021)
- $20,000 allocation for sprinkler repairs at Claude Larose Recreation Centre
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee is recommending that council approve a funding agreement with Ontario's Ministry of Infrastructure for a $100,000 project to build a receiving bay at the Foyer des Pionniers nursing home, funded by federal and provincial contributions. The committee will also review a semi-annual budget variance report, discuss tax rebates ahead of a public meeting, and consider several sponsorship and incentive requests.
- Funding agreement with Ministry of Infrastructure for $100,000 receiving bay at Foyer des Pionniers (federal $80,000, provincial $20,000)
- Semi-annual review of revenues and expenses (budget variance reports for operational and capital funds)
- Resolution to authorize tax rebates, with public meeting set for August 24, 2021 at 6:30 pm
- $250 sponsorship request from Conseil des Arts de Hearst for 2021-22 programming
- Payments from general account totaling $2,087,844.95 between June 10 and August 4, 2021
Operations Committee
The Operations Committee is recommending that Council adopt a by-law to authorize a $321,900 contract with Villeneuve Construction for asphalt patching on Gaspésie and Marchildon roads, including culvert replacements. The committee will also receive information reports on the drinking water quality management standard inspection and water/wastewater operations for May and June 2021. A resolution will be presented to adopt in third reading a by-law renewing the franchise agreement with Enbridge Gas Inc. for natural gas distribution in Hearst.
- Contract award: $321,900 to Villeneuve Construction for asphalt patching on Gaspésie and Marchildon roads, including culvert replacements on Gaspésie and Jolin roads
- By-law to renew franchise agreement with Enbridge Gas Inc. for natural gas distribution, transmission, and storage in Hearst (By-law No. 37-2021)
- Inspection report of Drinking Water Quality Management Standard: SAI Global audit found no deficiencies, recommending continued certification
- Water and wastewater systems operations report for May and June 2021
- Work in progress: drinking water treatment strategy (since Oct 2014) and septic dumping station for recreational vehicles (since Jan 2019)
Regular Meeting of Council
Council will hold a public meeting on a zoning amendment for an animal shelter on Parcel 6182CC, but the applicant cancelled the application on July 16, 2021. Council will also consider a grant application for a fuel dispensing system at René Fontaine Municipal Airport and adopt reports from the Planning, Policy, and Economic Development Committees. Correspondence includes requests on opioid crisis, cannabis licensing, and building material costs.
- Zoning amendment application from Claude Lepage for animal shelter on Parcel 6182CC (Parts 1 & 2, Plan CR 256) - cancelled July 16, 2021
- Grant application for fuel dispensing system at René Fontaine Municipal Airport
- Adoption of Planning Committee report (July 13, 2021)
- Adoption of Policy Committee report (July 14, 2021)
- Adoption of Economic Development Committee report (July 15, 2021)
Economic Development Committee
The Economic Development Committee is recommending council authorize a letter of agreement for the Town of Hearst's centennial book project, 'Cent regards sur 100 ans d'histoire: Hearst 1922-2022,' between the town, the Hearst Ecomuseum, and the Centre d'archives de la Grande Zone argileuse. The committee is also receiving information on marketing materials for the 100th anniversary, including street plaques and billboards. The agenda includes two items, one requiring a resolution and one for information only.
- Resolution to adopt by-law authorizing signature of letter of agreement for centennial book project 'Cent regards sur 100 ans d'histoire: Hearst 1922-2022'
- Town of Hearst to raise $25,000 for book publication, with total project budget of $50,000 in revenue and $55,000 in anticipated expenses
- 10 street plaques at $60 each ($600 total) and 2 billboards at $1,750 each ($13,500 total) for centennial marketing
- Book project involves partnership between Town of Hearst, Hearst Ecomuseum, and Centre d'archives de la Grande Zone argileuse
Policy Committee
The Policy Committee is recommending that the Town of Hearst adopt a resolution supporting federal Bill C-288, which would amend the Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act to exclude publicly funded postsecondary institutions from creditor protection. The committee will also consider adopting an updated municipal accessibility policy and receive annual reports from the Ontario Ombudsman and the Integrity Commissioner. A delegation from CUPE presented on the impact of Laurentian University's restructuring on northern municipalities.
- Resolution to support Bill C-288 amending the CCAA to exclude postsecondary institutions from creditor protection
- Adoption of by-law for the Town of Hearst's Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Policy
- Presentation of 2019 and 2020 accessibility status reports
- Ontario Ombudsman's annual report 2020-2021 (information)
- 2020 annual report of the Integrity Commissioner for the Town of Hearst (information)
Planning Committee
The Hearst Planning Committee is reviewing a zoning amendment application from Claude Lepage to allow an animal shelter on Parcel 6182CC (Parts 1 & 2 of Plan CR 256), currently zoned Rural Residential. The committee will also consider a consent application for a lot addition at 18 Chalykoff Street and a request from Xplornet Communications Inc. to lease land at J.D. Levesque Park. Recommendations include holding a public meeting on the zoning amendment and denying the Xplornet lease request.
- Zoning amendment application to permit animal shelter on Parcel 6182CC, Plan CR 256 (Rural Residential zone)
- Public meeting scheduled for July 20, 2021 to hear comments on proposed animal shelter zoning change
- Consent application C03-21 for lot addition of ~770 m² to 18 Chalykoff Street
- Resolution to deny Xplornet Communications Inc. request to install equipment on J.D. Levesque Park grounds
- Building permit activity summary comparing June 2020 vs. June 2021 and May 2020 vs. May 2021
Special Meeting of Council
Hearst Town Council is holding a special meeting to adopt reports from the Operations and Parks and Recreation committees and to approve a funding agreement with the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs under the Rural Economic Development Program. The meeting includes a closed session on the employee benefits plan and a recommendation to hire J.L. Richards & Associates Ltd. for architectural and engineering services for renovations at the Claude-Larose Recreation Centre and Stéphane-Lecours Swimming Pool over the next three years.
- Contract with J.L. Richards & Associates Ltd. for architectural and engineering services, estimated between $331,000 and $383,000, for renovations at Claude-Larose Recreation Centre and Stéphane-Lecours Swimming Pool
- Funding agreement with the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs under the Rural Economic Development Program
- Agreement with Porcupine Health Unit for use of Claude-Larose Recreation Centre for COVID-19 vaccination clinics, with hourly rates from $39.01 to $78.02
- Renewal of privileges agreement with Hearst Lumberjacks Junior A hockey team for two years
- Amendment to By-law No. 39-18 to replace ice rental rates for individual training and spot rental with an online rental rate for individuals
Operations Committee
The Operations Committee is discussing extending water and sewer services under Highway 11 to serve Villeneuve Construction's new cement plant. The committee's recommendation is to discuss this item in closed session. Other ongoing work includes a drinking water treatment strategy and a septic dumping station for recreational vehicles.
- Extension of water and sewer services under Highway 11 for Villeneuve Construction's new cement plant
- Closed session recommendation for the water/sewer extension item
- Drinking water treatment strategy (work in progress since Oct. 2014)
- Septic dumping station for recreational vehicles (work in progress since Jan. 2019)
Parks and Recreation Committee
The Parks and Recreation Committee is recommending council approve a by-law to hire J.L. Richards & Associates Ltd. for architectural and engineering services for renovations at the Claude-Larose Recreation Centre and Stéphane-Lecours Swimming Pool over the next three years. The committee will also discuss personnel restructuring in closed session, a COVID-19 vaccination clinic agreement with the Porcupine Health Unit, ice rental rate changes, and renewal of the Hearst Lumberjacks privileges agreement.
- Hiring J.L. Richards & Associates Ltd. for architectural/engineering services at Claude-Larose Recreation Centre and Stéphane-Lecours Swimming Pool, costing $331,000-$383,000
- Agreement with Porcupine Health Unit for COVID-19 vaccination clinics at Claude-Larose Recreation Centre (1008 Edward Street), with hourly cleaning rates from $39.01 to $78.02
- Amendment to By-law No. 39-18 to replace individual training and spot ice rental rates with an online individual rental rate
- Renewal of privileges agreement with Hearst Lumberjacks Junior A hockey team for 2 years
- Closed session on personnel restructuring of the Parks and Recreation Department
Regular Meeting of Council
This is a regular meeting of Hearst Town Council. The main item is a presentation of the Town of Hearst's 2020 financial statements by Baker Tilly HKC. Council will also adopt minutes from the May 26 meeting and reports from the Operations and Finance Committees, and review correspondence on various topics.
- Presentation of 2020 financial statements by Martine Lemaire-Mignault, Baker Tilly HKC
- Adoption of Operations Committee report dated June 8, 2021
- Adoption of Finance Committee report dated June 9, 2021
- Correspondence includes request to cancel Canada Day and various resolutions from other municipalities
- Reports from Non-Profit Housing Corporation, Porcupine Health Unit, and Centennial Committee
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee is meeting to review and recommend adoption of the Town of Hearst's audited 2020 financial statements, along with several other financial items including a property tax billing agreement, tax rebates, and ratification of the Hearst Connect Corporation budget. The committee will also receive information on the Porcupine Health Unit and North Cochrane POA Board financial statements, a new doctor referral program, and a list of payments. Recommendations will be tabled at the June 15 Council meeting.
- Adopt 2020 audited financial statements and appoint Baker Tilly HKC as auditor for 2021
- Agreement with Hearst Trailer Park Ltd for property tax billing and collection
- Tax rebates to Club Action and Hearst Community Curling Club
- Ratify Hearst Connect Corporation 2021 budget
- Payments issued April 30 to June 8, 2021 totaling $1,077,588.12
Operations Committee
The Operations Committee is meeting to discuss results of calls for proposals for two projects: a sanitary dumping station for recreational vehicles and replacement of the fuel dispensing system at the René-Fontaine Municipal Airport. They will consider authorizing staff to negotiate with the new owners of Cécile Camp Ground for the RV dump station, and adopting a by-law to sign a $393,654.51 contract with Northwest Petroleum Equipment Ltd. for the airport fuel system. The committee will also receive the April 2021 water and wastewater operations report.
- Resolution to authorize talks with Cécile Camp Ground owners for RV sanitary dumping station, with municipal incentive up to $35,000
- By-law to approve $393,654.51 contract with Northwest Petroleum Equipment Ltd. for airport fuel dispensing system replacement
- April 2021 water and wastewater operations report, including low lift pump failure, pH adjustment chemical change, and phosphorus objective exceedance
- No proposals received for RV dump station after April 22 tender closing; only three property owners requested forms
Regular Meeting of Council
At this regular meeting, Hearst Council will hear a delegation from CUPE about the impact of Laurentian University cuts on northern municipalities, and will consider adopting reports from several committees including Operations, Planning, Policy, and Economic Development. The agenda is largely procedural, with no public hearings, notices of motion, or closed session items listed.
- Delegation from CUPE on Laurentian University cuts' impact on northern municipalities
- Adoption of Operations Committee report (May 20, 2021)
- Adoption of Planning Committee report (May 18, 2021)
- Adoption of Policy Committee report (May 19, 2021)
- Adoption of Economic Development Committee report (May 20, 2021)
Economic Development Committee
The Economic Development Committee is meeting to recommend ratification of the official centennial logo for the Town of Hearst's 2022 celebrations, as selected by the Centennial Committee. The committee will also receive information on the results of requests for quotations for promotional and marketing services for the centenary.
- Ratification of centennial logo selected by Town of Hearst Centennial Committee
- Logo contest results: 13 submissions, judged by local artists Mariéve Sigouin, Wayne Neegan, and Angéle Guindon-Brunet
- RFQ results for marketing products and promotional items for centenary
Operations Committee
The Operations Committee is recommending council approve replacing the municipal water tower fall arrest system at a cost of $17,625 plus taxes. To fund this safety priority, a planned $15,000 backwash pump VFD automation project would be deferred to 2022. The recommendation follows an RFP in which Misco scored highest at 98 points with the lowest bid.
- Replacement of water tower fall arrest system for $17,625 plus taxes
- Deferral of backwash pump VFD automation project (est. $15,000) to 2022
- RFP 21-05 results: Misco (98 pts, $17,625), Landmark (77.7, $25,850), BGL (72.8, $28,841), Nsafe (62.9, $35,324.18), Safeguard (37.0, $35,260)
Policy Committee
The Policy Committee is recommending that Council adopt a resolution objecting to the privatization of the Hearst Employment Centre and requesting the province maintain services and staff. The committee also recommends renewing a one-year lease with Serco for the DriveTest service, increasing administrative fees, and supporting Cochrane's request to reopen Greenwater Provincial Park.
- Resolution to object to privatization of Hearst Employment Centre services
- Renewal of one-year lease with Serco for Two Ice Tournament Hall for DriveTest service
- By-law to increase fees: marriage licences to $125, tax certificates to $50, civil marriages to $300
- Resolution to support Town of Cochrane's request to reopen Greenwater Provincial Park
Planning Committee
The Planning Committee is reviewing a zoning amendment to allow an animal shelter on a rural residential parcel, and a by-law to sell surplus road allowance land to Hearst Esso for $4,170. The committee will also receive an update on building permit activity.
- Zoning amendment for animal shelter on Parcel 6182CC, Parts 1 & 2 of Plan CR 256
- Sale of Part 1 on Plan 6R-9252 to Hearst Esso for $4,170
- By-law to stop up and close part of 12th Street road allowance
- Building permit comparison: April 2020 vs April 2021
Regular Meeting of Council
The Town of Hearst Council is holding its regular meeting on May 4, 2021, with a routine agenda including adoption of minutes, correspondence, and committee reports. The most consequential item is a proposal to extend financial incentives to surgeons establishing a practice in the community, offering a $35,000 grant and a $25,000 interest-free loan. Other items include adopting committee reports and a closed session for solicitor-client privileged advice.
- Proposed extension of financial incentives to surgeons: $35,000 grant and $25,000 interest-free loan
- Adoption of reports from Operations, Parks and Recreation, and Finance Committees
- Correspondence from CN regarding proposed combination with Kansas City Southern and right-of-way vegetation control
- Closed meeting for advice subject to solicitor-client privilege
Parks and Recreation Committee
The Parks and Recreation Committee is meeting to consider several recommendations, including authorizing $122,604 for landscaping option 3 of the community pavilion, allowing the Canadian Red Cross free use of the pavilion for bimonthly food distribution, and approving temporary storage of Ecomuseum artifacts. The committee will also receive information on rental software options and the closure of the Stéphane-Lecours pool.
- Resolution to authorize $122,604 for landscaping option 3 of the community pavilion
- Resolution to authorize free use of community pavilion by Canadian Red Cross for bimonthly food distribution
- Resolution to authorize temporary storage of Ecomuseum artifacts at recreation centre and public works garage
- Information on software for rental of ice surfaces and municipal halls (SmartRec, recdesk, BookKing)
- Information on closure of Stéphane-Lecours swimming pool
Finance Committee
The Hearst Finance Committee is meeting to discuss and recommend action on several financial items, including the vacancy rebate program for commercial and industrial properties, a funding application to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities for an asset management project, and ratification of the 2021 budget for the Hearst Power Distribution Company. The committee will also receive a report on municipal contributions to community organizations and note a list of payments totaling $5,194,235.95.
- Vacancy rebate program: 30% municipal tax reduction for vacant commercial properties, 35% for industrial
- Funding application to FCM for asset management project: total cost $40,600, with FCM contributing $32,480 and municipality $8,120
- Resolution to ratify 2021 budget of Hearst Power Distribution Company
- List of payments from general account between March 15 and April 29, 2021 totaling $5,194,235.95
- 2020 report of municipal contributions to community organizations
Operations Committee
The Operations Committee is recommending several by-law changes, including reducing the speed limit on part of Highway 583 South from 80 km/h to 50 km/h for safety near a curve and school bus stop. It also recommends adding no-parking zones on Fontaine Drive and Front Street, appointing a student by-law officer, adding an agricultural farm category to the solid waste policy, and approving a franchise agreement with Enbridge Gas Inc. The committee will also receive information reports on awards and water/wastewater operations.
- Speed limit reduction on Hwy 583 S from 80 to 50 km/h near Cemetery Lane (approx. $200 for signs)
- No parking signs on Fontaine Drive (from Marchildon Rd to 94 Fontaine Dr) and Front Street (from 3rd St to train tracks) ($2,367)
- Appointment of Nicholas Brunet as student by-law officer until August 27, 2021
- Add 'Agricultural Farm' category to Solid Waste Management Policy (max 3 waste + 3 recycling containers, bi-weekly pickup)
- Franchise agreement with Enbridge Gas Inc. submitted to Ontario Energy Board for approval
Regular Meeting of Council
This is a regular meeting of Hearst Town Council. The agenda is largely procedural: adopting minutes, filing correspondence, and receiving committee reports. The main substantive items are the adoption of reports from the Planning, Policy, and Economic Development committees, plus a closed session on human resources.
- Adoption of Planning Committee report dated April 6, 2021
- Adoption of Policy Committee report dated April 7, 2021
- Adoption of Economic Development Committee report dated April 8, 2021
- Closed meeting for human resources matters
- Correspondence includes Ontario Cannabis Legalization Implementation Fund, MPAC assessment update postponement, and handgun by-law opposition
Economic Development Committee
The Economic Development Committee is meeting to review the 2020 Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) budget, which shows a surplus of $81,597.12, and to approve a sponsorship plan for the Town of Hearst's 100th anniversary celebrations. The committee will also consider appointing Stéphane Lapointe as alternate representative on the Northeast Community Network Board of Directors. The agenda includes a resolution to approve the sponsorship plan and a recommendation to appoint Lapointe.
- 2020 Municipal Accommodation Tax budget review with surplus of $81,597.12
- Resolution to approve sponsorship plan for Hearst's 100th anniversary (Resolution No. 25-2021)
- Sponsorship tiers range from Bronze (under $499) to Privileged (over $10,000)
- Appointment of Stéphane Lapointe to Northeast Community Network Board
- MAT budget includes $89,000 revenue and expenses for tourism activities
Police Services Board
The Hearst Police Services Board is meeting to discuss ongoing projects and review the detachment commander's report. The agenda includes updates on bilingual officer recruitment, school zone speeding, and police presence in schools. The board will also review crime statistics showing a rise in drug-related offenses.
- Discussion of excessive speed in school zones and on municipal roads, including a complaint about children crossing Hwy 583 South
- Update on Lifesaver and Finding Your Way projects, with Cst. J. Vienneau taking over
- Review of 2020 crime data showing drug crimes increasing year over year
- Discussion of social gatherings during the pandemic, with suggestion to issue fines for first offenses
- Parking spaces during road closures: awaiting response from Ryam Lumber about using their land
Policy Committee
The Policy Committee is recommending that Council amend By-law No. 62-18 to allow electronic participation in all advisory committee meetings during a declared pandemic, except for closed sessions. The committee also recommends approving a $6,100 budget for partitions in Council Chambers and the Inovo Centre, extending financial incentives to surgeons, and several appointments and funding agreements.
- Amend By-law 62-18 to allow electronic participation in advisory committee meetings during a pandemic
- Approve $6,100 budget allocation for partitions in Council Chambers and Inovo Centre
- Extend financial incentives (including $35,000 grant and $25,000 interest-free loan) to surgeons establishing practice in Hearst
- Appoint Idrissa Doumbo as volunteer firefighter and Gilles Boucher as director of Hearst Power Sales and Services Company
- Authorize $20,000 contribution to outdoor exercise park and $26,569 budget allocation for Parc des cultures
Planning Committee
The Hearst Planning Committee is reviewing a consent application to sever a 150-acre property at 1 Bosnick Road into two 75-acre rural lots. The committee will also receive an update on building permit activity comparing 2020 and 2021. The agenda includes a recommendation that Council not object to the severance, subject to conditions.
- Consent application C01-21 to create a new rural lot from property at 1 Bosnick Road (Lot 18, Concession 8, Kendall Township)
- Proposed severance would create two 75-acre lots; new lot would front Collin Road, not built to municipal standards
- Recommendation: Council no objection, subject to road upgrade agreement and Porcupine Health Unit approval
- Building permit activity summary: February and March 2020 vs 2021
- Public meeting scheduled for April 14, 2021 at 5:30 PM, Hearst Town Hall
Regular Meeting of Council
This is a regular meeting of Hearst Town Council. Council will hear a presentation from the Partners for Employment Centre, receive correspondence from provincial ministries and other municipalities, and adopt reports from the Operations, Parks and Recreation, and Finance committees. The agenda is largely routine, with no public hearings, notices of motion, or deferred business.
- Presentation by Partners for Employment Centre on its services
- Correspondence re: 12 new long-term care beds development project in Hearst
- Correspondence re: 2021 Transitional Mitigation Payment Allocation from Ministry of Finance
- Correspondence re: Exolink Corridor du Nord Broadband Project from MPP Guy Bourgouin
- Adoption of reports from Operations, Parks and Recreation, and Finance committees
Special Meeting of Council
This is a special meeting of the Hearst Town Council. The only substantive item is a closed-session presentation from Robichaud Insurance. No decisions or public discussions are listed on the agenda.
- Closed-session presentation from Robichaud Insurance
Parks and Recreation Committee
The Parks and Recreation Committee is meeting to discuss and recommend actions on several items, including the closure of the Claude-Giroux ice surface, a proposed change to the location of an outdoor exercise park, a date change for the 2022 Commemoration Day, and a financial contribution request from the Hearst Rotary Club. The committee will make recommendations to the Municipal Council.
- Closure of the Claude-Giroux ice surface to accommodate COVID-19 vaccination clinics
- Resolution to repeal Resolution No. 157-20 and change the outdoor exercise park location to Lecours Park
- Resolution to change the 2022 Commemoration Day date to July 3rd
- Resolution to accept a $3,500 contribution to the Hearst Rotary Club for repairs to the clock at Selin Park
- Information on rentals and lessons at the Stéphane-Lecours Swimming Pool
Finance Committee
The Hearst Finance Committee will consider four items: a motion to freeze council wages at 2020 levels until November 2022, a new promissory note from Hearst Power Distribution for $800,000 at 3.21% interest, renewal of a child care funding agreement with CDSSAB, and a list of payments totaling $1,371,014.19. Recommendations will be presented to the Municipal Council for deliberation and vote.
- Motion to freeze council wages at 2020 rate until November 2022, saving an estimated $6,030 over 2 years
- New promissory note from Hearst Power Distribution to Town of Hearst for $800,000 at 3.21% interest
- Renewal of agreement with CDSSAB for child care and early years services funding for 2021, totaling $657,747.10
- List of payments from general account between February 2 and March 14, 2021, totaling $1,371,014.19
Operations Committee
The Operations Committee is meeting to discuss and recommend several items for Council approval, including appointing a volunteer firefighter, renewing the workplace health and safety policy, amending a traffic by-law to remove one parking space on 9th Street, and authorizing a seasonal patio agreement with 2-4-1 Bar & Grill. The committee will also receive information reports on the landfill speed limit signs, the 2020 drinking water compliance report, the renewal of the drinking water permit, and the January 2021 water and wastewater operations report.
- Appointment of Babacar Fall as volunteer firefighter
- Renewal of the Workplace Health and Safety Policy for 2021
- By-law to prohibit parking on the west side of 9th Street, eliminating one space north of Alexandra Street
- Agreement with 2-4-1 Bar & Grill for a portable patio on two metered parking spaces on George Street, June 15 to August 15, 2021, at $105.74 per space per month
- Adoption of the 2020 Annual Compliance and Summary Report for the Hearst Drinking Water System
Special Meeting of Council
At this special meeting, Hearst Town Council will consider adopting the 2021 operating and capital budgets for the town and public library, along with the 2021 tax rates, tax ratios, and the Business Improvement Area (BIA) levy. Council will also review a report from the Finance Committee and consider accepting funding from the Ministry of Transportation under the Safe Restart Agreement. The agenda includes several draft by-laws for these adoptions.
- Adoption of 2021 operating and capital budgets for Town of Hearst and Public Library
- Adoption of 2021 tax rates and tax ratios
- Adoption of 2021 Business Improvement Area (BIA) levy for Centre-ville Hearst Downtown
- Funding from Ministry of Transportation under Safe Restart Agreement
- Adoption of Finance Committee and Operations Committee reports
Operations Committee
The Operations Committee is recommending that Council authorize staff to launch a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the construction and operation of a recreational vehicle (RV) dumping station on private commercial property along Highway 11, within the Community Improvement Plan area. The municipality would provide a grant of up to $35,000 (50% of construction costs) to the successful proponent, who would be responsible for all other costs and operations. The recommendation will be tabled at a public Council meeting.
- RFP for construction and operation of RV dumping station (Contract No. 21-02)
- Municipal grant up to $35,000 (50% of construction costs) per Community Improvement Plan model
- Proposals evaluated on hours of operation (20%), site suitability (20%), and cost to municipality (60%)
- Agreement term: 10 years (draft agreement suggests 20 years, surviving sale of business)
- Council retains control over user fees to prevent monopolistic pricing
Special Meeting of Council
Council is meeting to review and potentially revise the draft 2021 capital budget, which totals about $4.39 million in proposed projects. The budget covers items like road work, water and sewer upgrades, recreation facility improvements, and economic development initiatives. Funding sources include municipal taxation, water/sewer rates, federal gas tax, OCIF, and other grants. The agenda is primarily a discussion and decision point on this budget.
- Road work: Gaspésie Rd (200m) and Marchildon Rd (200m) at $150,000 each; Fontaine Drive intersection widening at Hwy 11 at $230,000
- Swimming pool upgrades: $1.73M including air quality, heat recovery, and filtration systems
- Water projects: $116,000 for treatment equipment; sewer projects: $146,500 for lagoon cleaning and pump repairs
- Airport: $300,000 above-ground fuel dispensing system and $25,000 hangar reroof
- Economic development: $410,000 for Vision Hearst consultant (not in draft) and $114,300 for downtown revitalization
Regular Meeting of Council
This is the agenda for the Town of Hearst's regular council meeting on March 2, 2021. Council will hear a presentation from the fire chief on the Hearst Fire Department's 2020 activity report, consider a notice of motion filed by Councillor Lauzon to freeze council members' remuneration, and adopt reports from the Planning and Policy committees. The agenda also includes routine items such as adoption of minutes, correspondence, and a confirmatory by-law.
- Presentation: Hearst Fire Department 2020 Activity Report by Fire Chief Jean-Marc St-Amour
- Notice of Motion by Councillor Lauzon: Remuneration Freeze for Council members
- Adoption of Planning Committee report dated February 23, 2021
- Adoption of Policy Committee report dated February 24, 2021
- Closed meeting to discuss human resources (Section 239 2) d) of the Municipal Act)
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee is reviewing the draft 2021 operating and capital budgets, along with the Public Library budget. The committee recommends holding special council meetings on March 3 to make cuts to the capital budget and on March 11 to adopt the 2021 budgets. The agenda also includes a report on interest rates for the municipal electricity distribution corporation's debt owed to the town.
- Draft 2021 operating and capital budgets
- Special council meeting March 3 to cut capital budget
- Special council meeting March 11 to adopt 2021 budgets
- Public Library 2021 Budget
- Interest rate on debt of Corporation de distribution électrique owed to Ville de Hearst
Policy Committee
The Hearst Policy Committee is meeting to recommend several resolutions to the Municipal Council, including adopting a new workplace harassment and discrimination policy, amending the shareholder declaration for Hearst Power Sales and Services Company to change its board composition and management, and supporting other municipalities' requests to the province for small business reopening and a rent freeze exemption. The committee will also remove an item from its work-in-progress list. The agenda includes a full draft of the harassment policy for review.
- Resolution to adopt a by-law adopting the new workplace harassment and discrimination policy
- Resolution to amend By-law No. 56-00 (Shareholder Declaration) for Hearst Power Sales and Services Company to modify board composition and management
- Resolution to support Kapuskasing, Kingsville, Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry, and South Stormont in requesting the province to allow small businesses to reopen
- Resolution to support CDSSAB's request to exclude CDSSABs from the 2021 rent freeze in Bill 204
- Resolution to remove item 2 (youth engagement with council) from Work in Progress
Planning Committee
The Hearst Planning Committee is meeting to discuss a request to purchase municipal land, which will be considered in closed session, and to review building permit activity comparing January 2020 and January 2021. The agenda is largely procedural, with one item for information and one for closed session.
- Request for purchase of municipal land (closed session)
- Building permit activities summary: January 2020 vs January 2021
Special Meeting of Council
Council will consider adopting the Parks and Recreation Committee's report, which recommends reopening the Claude Larose Recreation Centre and Stéphane-Lecours pool with strict COVID-19 protocols, including mandatory masks and capacity limits. The report also recommends cancelling the 2021 Volunteer Awards Night and holding a larger event in 2022. The meeting is otherwise procedural, with adoption of the agenda and a confirmatory by-law.
- Reopening of recreation centre and pool with mask mandate and capacity limits
- Cancellation of 2021 Volunteer Awards Night; mega event planned for 2022
- Ice rental revenues Oct–Dec 2020: $68,081.88
- Arena expenses Oct 2020–Jan 2021: $254,848.37
- Pool reservations required via 705-372-2805
Parks and Recreation Committee
The Parks and Recreation Committee is discussing the reopening of the Claude Larose Recreation Centre and Stéphane-Lecours Swimming Pool under COVID-19 guidelines, including mandatory masks and capacity limits. It also recommends cancelling the 2021 Volunteer Awards Night and holding a larger event in 2022. The agenda includes detailed operational directives for ice surfaces and pool users.
- Reopening of recreation centre and pool with mask mandate, no exceptions
- Cancellation of 2021 Volunteer Awards Night; mega event planned for 2022 with 'Covid Exceptional Volunteer' category
- Ice rental revenues Oct-Dec 2020: $68,081.88 total
- Arena expenses Oct 2020-Jan 2021: $254,848.37 total
- Pool reservations required via 705-372-2805; limited capacity
Special Meeting of Council
Council is holding a special meeting to consider three items: approving a revised salary administration program for non-union employees, authorizing a funding agreement with the Ministry of Transportation for COVID-19 transit cleaning costs, and setting a deadline for property owners to choose a payment option for a local improvement project. The salary program would update job classifications and pay bands, with a financial impact of about $221,414 in 2021 compared to 2020 salaries.
- Proposed salary grid for non-union employees, effective January 1, 2021, with a 3-year transition
- Funding agreement with Ministry of Transportation: maximum $2,369 for COVID-19 transit cleaning
- Deadline for property owners to choose payment option for local improvement project
- Draft by-law to revise By-law No. 28-91 (Salary Administration Program)
- Financial impact table shows 2021 proposed salaries of $4,589,156 vs. $4,367,743 in 2020
Police Services Board
The Hearst Police Services Board is meeting to discuss ongoing projects including bilingual recruitment, excessive speed in school zones, parking during road closures, and police presence in schools. They will also review the detachment commander's report and correspondence. The agenda includes standard procedural items like adopting minutes and declaring pecuniary interests.
- Discussion on recruitment of bilingual personnel and police human resources needs from Cochrane to Greenstone
- Update on speed sensors and proposed installation on Fontaine Drive
- Parking plan during road closures, including potential use of private land along Hwy 11
- Report on police staffing: 11 officers on road, soon to be 12
- Youth in community: discussion on support services and potential dedicated space
Regular Meeting of Council
This is the agenda for the February 9, 2021 regular meeting of Hearst Town Council. Council will hear a delegation on a cultural crossroads project, hold a public meeting on proposed building permit fee changes, and consider reports from several committees, including the appointment of a by-law enforcement officer. The agenda also includes routine items like adopting minutes and correspondence.
- Public meeting on proposed changes to building permit fees (By-law No. 65-2020)
- Delegation from Nicole Guertin and Jeannik Collin on the 101 Experiences: Cultural Crossroads Project
- Appointment of a By-law Enforcement Officer
- Adoption of reports from Operations, Parks and Recreation, and Finance committees
- Correspondence on provincial issues including highway projects and infrastructure funding
Parks and Recreation Committee
The Parks and Recreation Committee is reviewing updates on the Parc des cultures project, including design refinements and funding options, and discussing a request from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry to host a provincial hockey tournament in 2023. The committee also plans to discuss human resources matters in a closed meeting.
- Parc des cultures design: turtle shape, concrete shell, paving stone, cedar hedge, and signage discussed
- Funding: grant application to Arbres Canada up to $10,000; potential grants from Société de gestion du fond du patrimoine and Patrimoine Ontario
- Request to reserve arena ice for MNRF provincial hockey tournament March 23-25, 2023
- Human resources at Parks and Recreation Department to be discussed in closed meeting
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee will consider a by-law to update the job classification and salary grid for non-union employees, with a three-year transition to bring salaries to the median of comparable municipalities. It will also decide on a $23,300 budget allocation for computer replacement, renew the inter-corporate services agreement with Hearst Power Distribution Company, and approve tax rebates for charitable organizations. Several items are for information only, including the 2021 summer student hiring plan and the 2020 tax collection report.
- By-law to amend Salary Administration Program (By-law 28-91) for non-union employees, with transition to median salaries by 2023
- Budget allocation of $23,300 for computer replacement in 2021
- Renewal of inter-corporate services agreement with Hearst Power Distribution Company
- By-law authorizing tax rebates for qualifying charitable organizations for 2021
- Renewal of $6,000 annual contribution to Hearst Ecomuseum
Operations Committee
The Operations Committee will consider a 5-year contract with Trans Canada Safety for annual servicing of the Fire Department's breathing apparatus and air compressor, and will vote on supporting a resolution to reverse the Ontario Fire College closure. It will also review the Public Works Department's 2021-2030 Ten-Year Plan, a local improvement project on West Street and Vanier, Laurier, and Frost Places, and receive reports on drinking water and water/wastewater operations.
- 5-year Trans Canada Safety contract for fire equipment servicing, total $18,973.64 (not including tax)
- Resolution to support Township of Augusta's request to reverse Ontario Fire College closure
- Local improvement project on West Street and Vanier, Laurier, and Frost Places
- Adoption of Public Works 2021-2030 Ten-Year Plan
- Minister's 2020 annual report on drinking water
Special Meeting of Council
This is a special meeting of Hearst Town Council. The only substantive item is an in-camera presentation on a salary administration program prepared by the firm Equity & More, held under the Municipal Act's closed-meeting rules. No decisions are listed on the agenda.
- In-camera presentation of salary administration program by Equity & More
- Closed session under Sections 239(2)(b) and (d) of the Municipal Act
Regular Meeting of Council
This is a regular meeting of Hearst Town Council. The agenda includes adopting reports from the Planning, Finance, Policy, and Economic Development committees, as well as a report on a Road Traffic Controller position. There are no delegations, public hearings, or notices of motion. The meeting will also include a closed session for solicitor-client privileged advice.
- Adoption of Planning Committee report dated January 12, 2021
- Adoption of Finance Committee report dated January 13, 2021
- Adoption of Policy Committee report dated January 13, 2021
- Road Traffic Controller position - administrative report from CAO dated January 13, 2021
- Adoption of Economic Development Committee report dated January 14, 2021
Economic Development Committee
The Economic Development Committee is recommending that the Town of Hearst adopt a mission, vision, and slogan for its centenary in 2022, as proposed by the organizing committee. The recommendation will be tabled at a public meeting of the Municipal Council. The agenda contains only this single substantive item.
- Resolution to adopt proposed mission, vision, and slogan for the Town of Hearst's centenary
- Mission: Celebrate the Town of Hearst's heritage and growth in all its diversity to mark the last hundred years
- Vision: Include the past to imagine the future
- Slogan: From everywhere, together!
- Administrative report dated December 10, 2020
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee is recommending council adopt a by-law setting 2021 water and sewer rates, including a 7% increase to the water rate and no change to the sewer rate. It also recommends adopting the 2021 interim tax levy (50% of prior year taxes, payable in two installments) and authorizing payment of a $9,926.95 invoice to Hearst Power Distribution for pedestrian light installation. The agenda includes detailed 2021 water and sewer capital project budgets.
- 7% water rate increase for 2021; sewer rate unchanged
- 2021 interim tax levy set at 50% of previous year's taxes, due March 1 and May 3
- Payment of $9,926.95 plus tax to Hearst Power Distribution for pedestrian light installation (invoice #3393)
- 2021 water capital projects budget totals $116,000
- 2021 sanitary sewer capital projects budget totals $146,500
Policy Committee
The Hearst Policy Committee is meeting to discuss and recommend items for the municipal council, including authorizing attendance at four virtual 2021 conferences, amending a by-law to change a council member's committee appointment, and allowing the Hearst Karate Club free use of the Heritage Sawmill. The committee will also review ongoing work on business licensing by-laws and youth engagement with council.
- Resolution to authorize mayor, CAO, and staff to attend ROMA, OGRA, OFIA, and PDAC virtual conferences; budgeted at $17,500 for 2021
- By-law amendment to appoint Councillor Vachon to the Economic Development Advisory Committee, replacing Councillor Lemaire
- Request from Hearst Karate Club for free use of Heritage Sawmill for winter 2021 classes, offering 50% of registration fees (est. $312.50) to the town
- Review of municipal by-laws on business licenses (work in progress since Oct 2015)
- Youth engagement with municipal council (work in progress since Oct 2016)
Planning Committee
The Hearst Planning Committee is meeting to discuss information items, including a staff report on new provincial rules for community benefits charges and parkland dedication, and a summary of building permit activity comparing 2019 and 2020. The committee will also hold a closed meeting to consider a request from Corporation Résidence Taïga for a donation of municipal land.
- Community Benefits Charges and Parkland: information item with staff report and provincial letter
- Request for donation of municipal land from Corporation Résidence Taïga (closed meeting)
- Building permit activity: November and December 2019 vs 2020 comparisons
- Total building permit value for 2020: $17,376,401 (year-end)
- Total permit fees for 2020: $47,453.45