Blind River public meetings in 2021

Special Council Meeting

This is a special council meeting with a closed session to discuss litigation or potential litigation and a proposed or pending land acquisition or disposition. The only public action is a confirming by-law (21-78) to adopt the meeting's proceedings. No substantive public decisions are on the agenda.

• Closed session under litigation or potential litigation affecting the municipality
• Closed session on proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land
• Confirming By-law 21-78 for December 16, 2021

The council met in a special session and voted to enter a closed meeting to discuss a proposed or pending land acquisition or disposition and litigation or potential litigation. After resuming open session, the mayor reported on the closed discussions. The council then adopted the minutes of the meeting via by-law 21-78 and adjourned.

• Approved agenda and closed meeting agenda (21-418)
• Entered closed session to discuss land and litigation matters (21-419)
• Resumed open meeting at 4:56 p.m. (21-420)
• Authorized signing of by-law 21-78 to adopt meeting minutes (21-421)
• Adjourned meeting at 4:57 p.m. (21-422)

Protective Services Committee

The Blind River Protective Services Committee is meeting to review the November report from the Director of Protective Services, consider a fireworks by-law, and adopt minutes from the November 9, 2021 meeting. The agenda is largely routine, with no public presentations or addendum items listed.

• Review of November report from Director of Protective Services
• Discussion of Fireworks By-law
• Adoption of minutes from November 9, 2021 meeting

The Protective Services Committee approved its agenda and adopted the November 9, 2021 minutes. It reviewed the Director of Protective Services' November report, noting ongoing speeding issues on Causley corridor and Woodward Avenue. The committee passed a motion recommending that Council approve the Fireworks By-Law as presented. The meeting adjourned at 1:12 p.m.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Adopted minutes of November 9, 2021
• Recommended Fireworks By-Law to Council (carried)

Police Services Board

The Blind River Police Services Board is meeting to review routine administrative items, including adoption of previous minutes and several Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) reports covering July through October 2021. The agenda includes monthly police reports and Integrated Court Offence Network (ICON) reports, but no decisions on new policies or contracts are listed.

• Adoption of September 14, 2021 meeting minutes
• OPP police reports for August, September, and October 2021
• OPP Integrated Court Offence Network (ICON) reports for July, August, and September 2021

The Blind River Police Services Board met on December 14, 2021, and approved the agenda and the minutes from the September 14, 2021 meeting. The board accepted the monthly police reports for August, September, and October 2021, as presented. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting adjourned at 10:21 a.m.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Adopted minutes of September 14, 2021 meeting
• Accepted monthly police reports for August, September, and October 2021

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council's regular meeting includes a presentation by KPMG on a water and wastewater financial plan, a zoning amendment application for 238 Robb Road, and several by-laws for adoption. Council will also discuss ongoing projects, shared services, surplus lands, and the 2022 municipal election voting vendor selection. The agenda includes routine items like minutes adoption and correspondence, plus a closed session for personnel, legal, and land matters.

• KPMG water rate study presentation
• Zoning amendment application ZBL-2021-007 for 238 Robb Road
• By-law #21-67 Traffic By-Law
• By-law #21-74 Community Centre Drainage Project agreement
• 2022 Municipal Election alternative voting vendor selection

Council approved the use of internet/telephone voting for the 2022 municipal election and accepted a proposal from Scytl Canada Inc. for $12,537.35. They also declared the former Timber Village Museum property at 243A Causley Street as surplus, and approved a conditional zoning amendment for 238 Robb Road. Several by-laws were passed, including traffic, CEMC appointment, and agreements for renovations and drainage projects.

• Approved internet/telephone voting for 2022 election with Scytl Canada Inc. (6-1)
• Declared 243A Causley Street (former Timber Village Museum) as surplus lands
• Conditionally approved zoning amendment for 238 Robb Road (setback 300m)
• Adopted Water and Wastewater Financial Plan as presented by KPMG
• Authorized partnership with Blind River Minor Baseball for OTF grant application
• Extended Algoma Public Health vaccine clinic rental to June 30, 2022 ($1,800 from Safe Restart Fund)
• Passed By-law #21-67 (Traffic), #21-71 (CEMC), #21-72 (Product Care), #21-73 (Tourist Info Centre renovations), #21-74 (Community Centre drainage), #21-75 (Procedural), #21-76 (Nuisance)
• Appointed Adrienne Edwards and Eva Whitmore to Library Board

Public Meeting - Planning

This is a public meeting of Blind River Town Council to consider a zoning amendment application (ZBL 21-007) for 238 Robb Road. The agenda includes a technical report, public comments, and a response from Tulloch Engineering regarding opposition to the application. No decisions are listed; the meeting is for discussion and public input.

• Zoning amendment application ZBL 21-007 for 238 Robb Road
• Technical report on 238 Robb Road
• Public comments on the application
• Response from Tulloch Engineering regarding opposition

The meeting was a public hearing for a zoning amendment application (ZBL 21-007) at 238 Robb Road. No decision was made; council heard staff explanation and noted one written opposition. The application seeks to amend a setback requirement to allow a possible future severance.

• Approved meeting agenda (21-393)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:41 p.m. (21-394)

Infrastructure Services Committee

The Blind River Infrastructure Services Committee is meeting to review routine items and receive a presentation from Beamish Construction regarding Contract No. 21-1160 and liquidated damages related to the Woodward Avenue project. The committee will also consider the Public Services Report for November 4 to December 1, 2021, and adopt minutes from the previous meeting.

• Public presentation by Beamish Construction on Contract No. 21-1160, liquidated damages
• Public Services Report for November 4 to December 1, 2021
• Adoption of minutes from November 10, 2021 meeting

The Infrastructure Services Committee met and approved the agenda and previous minutes. A discussion on liquidated damages for the Woodward Ave. repaving project was deferred until the final invoice is received. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Adopted minutes of November 10, 2021
• Deferred liquidated damages decision for Woodward Ave. project until final invoice

Water and Wastewater Committee

The Blind River Water and Wastewater Committee is meeting to review its agenda, adopt previous minutes, and hear presentations from the PUC, Tulloch Engineering, and Algoma Public Health. The main business item is a report from the Treasurer regarding the Water Financial Plan. The meeting is scheduled for December 8, 2021, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. in Council Chambers.

• Treasurer report on Water Financial Plan
• PUC presentation
• Tulloch Engineering presentation
• Algoma Public Health presentation
• Adoption of September 8, 2021 minutes

The Blind River Water and Wastewater Committee met on December 8, 2021, and approved the agenda and adopted the minutes from September 8, 2021. Members received presentations from PUC Services and Tulloch Engineering on quarterly activities and key projects, and the Treasurer noted that a water financial plan prepared by KPMG would be presented to Council on December 13. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting adjourned at 10:20 a.m.

• Approved agenda as presented (carried)
• Adopted minutes of September 8, 2021 meeting (carried)

Budget Committee

The Blind River Budget Committee is meeting to review the 2022 draft capital and operating budgets, as presented by the Treasurer. The committee will also discuss an emergency back-up generator proposal from the Director of Protective Services and consider correspondence from the Huron Pines Budget Subcommittee and the Northern Ontario Resource Development Support Fund.

• 2022 Draft Capital Budget review
• 2022 Draft Operating Budget review
• Emergency Back-up Generator proposal
• Huron Pines Budget Subcommittee correspondence
• Northern Ontario Resource Development Support Fund correspondence

The committee reviewed the draft 2022 capital and operating budgets, noting that an additional $262,000 in savings is needed to keep the levy increase at 2.5%. It was also noted that the contribution to HNCEA is in its third and final year and should be included in the budget. The treasurer will work with the Library CEO to reduce the town's contribution for 2022. The committee approved the agenda and adopted the previous minutes, but took no other formal decisions.

• Approved the agenda as presented.
• Adopted the minutes of the October 26, 2021 meeting as presented.
• Adjourned the meeting at 5:04 p.m.

Special Council Meeting

This special council meeting includes a closed session for personnel and legal advice, followed by a report and consideration of by-laws. The main public item is By-Law #21-69, an agreement with AJ Bus Lines for Handi-Transit accessible transit service. A confirming by-law (21-70) is also on the agenda.

• By-Law #21-69: Agreement with AJ Bus Lines for Handi-Transit bus operator
• Closed session: personnel matters and legal advice
• By-Law #21-70: Confirming by-law for Nov 29'21

Council held a special meeting and went into closed session to discuss personnel and legal matters. After returning, they authorized the CAO to be paid 40 hours per week while serving as interim Director of Public Services, effective December 1, 2021. They also approved an agreement with A.J. Bus Lines Limited for Handi-Transit bus operation and adopted the meeting minutes.

• Approved agenda as presented (21-386)
• Entered closed session for personnel and legal advice (21-387)
• Resumed open meeting at 4:35 p.m. (21-388)
• Authorized CAO paid 40 hours/week as interim Director of Public Services, effective Dec 1, 2021 (21-389)
• Approved By-law #21-69 for Handi-Transit bus operator agreement with A.J. Bus Lines Limited (21-390)
• Approved By-law #21-70 to adopt the meeting minutes (21-391)
• Adjourned at 4:37 p.m. (21-392)

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The Blind River Corporate Services Committee is meeting to review routine items including previous minutes and correspondence. They will receive an administrative report on the Palace Theatre and discuss a request to honour longtime residents, referencing the Parks and Playgrounds Policy for memorial benches and trees.

• Administrative report: Palace Theatre update
• Correspondence from Jason Dunbar re: honouring longtime residents
• Reference to Parks and Playgrounds Policy - Memorial Bench Tree

The Corporate Services Committee approved the meeting agenda and adopted the minutes from October 25, 2021. No substantive decisions were made; the only business discussed was an update that Administration is preparing a new Request For Proposal for the Palace Theatre, which will be brought to the Committee for discussion once finalized. Correspondence regarding honouring longtime residents was noted, with no action taken.

• Approved the meeting agenda as presented.
• Adopted the minutes of October 25, 2021, as presented.
• Noted the CAO/Clerk's update that a new Request For Proposal for the Palace Theatre is being prepared and will be presented for discussion.
• Noted correspondence from Jason Dunbar regarding honouring longtime residents; no action taken.

Communications Committee

The Blind River Communications Committee is holding a routine meeting to review the agenda, adopt previous minutes, and discuss business arising. The committee will also enter a closed session to discuss previous minutes and personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees, specifically personnel. No other substantive items are listed.

• Adoption of post-meeting minutes from March 29, 2021
• Closed session to discuss previous minutes
• Closed session to discuss personal matters about an identifiable individual, including personnel

The Communications Committee approved the agenda and adopted the minutes from the March 29, 2021 meeting. The committee then entered a closed session to discuss personnel matters, as permitted by the Municipal Act, and later resumed the open meeting. The meeting adjourned shortly after.

• Approved the agenda as presented
• Adopted the minutes of the March 29, 2021 meeting
• Moved into closed session to discuss personnel matters
• Resumed open meeting after closed session
• Adjourned the meeting

Community Services Committee

The Blind River Community Services Committee is meeting to review administrative reports, including a November/year-end summary from the Director of Facilities & Community Services, a request from the Ontario Trillium Foundation Resilient Communities Fund regarding Blind River Minor Baseball, and a request from Algoma Public Health to continue the vaccine site. The agenda also includes routine items such as adoption of previous minutes and correspondence.

• November/Year-End Summary report from Director of Facilities & Community Services
• Ontario Trillium Foundation Resilient Communities Fund request for Blind River Minor Baseball Partnership
• Algoma Public Health request to continue vaccine clinics
• Adoption of October 27, 2021 meeting minutes

The committee recommended that Council approve an extension of Algoma Public Health's rental agreement at the Blind River Community Centre Hall through June 30, 2022, using $1,800 from the Safe Restart Fund for rental fees and requiring updated insurance. It also recommended partnering with Blind River Minor Baseball Association to apply to the Ontario Trillium Foundation's Resilient Communities Fund, and that municipal representation work with the Chamber of Commerce to host an information session on incorporation for user groups. The committee accepted the November/Year-End Summary report and adopted the previous minutes.

• Adopted the minutes of the October 27, 2021 meeting as presented.
• Accepted the Director of Facilities & Community Services' November/Year-End Summary report.
• Recommended to Council that the Town partner with Blind River Minor Baseball Association to submit to the Ontario Trillium Foundation's 2021 Resilient Communities Fund.
• Recommended that municipal representation liaise with the Chamber of Commerce to plan an information session on incorporation for user groups.
• Recommended to Council that Algoma Public Health's rental agreement at the Community Centre Hall be extended from December 31, 2021 to June 30, 2022, with $1,800 from the Safe Restart Fund for rental fees and updated insurance provided.
• Adjourned the meeting at 4:14 p.m.

Public Meeting - Planning

This is a public meeting of the Town Council to consider three planning applications: a rezoning and an official plan amendment for 243 Causley Street, and a minor variance for 36 Beech Drive. The council will hear staff reports and public input before deciding on these applications.

• ZBL 21-004: Rezoning application for 243 Causley Street
• OP 21-001: Official Plan Amendment for 243 Causley Street
• V 21-010: Minor variance application for 36 Beech Drive

The council held a public meeting to consider three planning applications: a rezoning and an official plan amendment for 243 Causley Street, and a minor variance for 36 Beech Drive. No comments of concern were received for any application. The meeting was procedural; no decisions were made on the applications.

• Approved agenda (21-368) (carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:06 p.m. (21-369) (carried)

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council's regular meeting covers administrative reports, by-laws, and a closed session. Key items include a Tulloch Engineering project list, surplus courthouse furniture disposal, a minor variance application for 36 Beech Drive, the 2021-2022 Winter Operations Plan, pedestrian crossover completion, and a Blind River Dam capital update. Council will also consider by-laws for zoning and official plan amendments at 243 Causley Street, a firearms by-law, and a traffic by-law.

• By-Law #21-64: Zoning amendment for 243 Causley Street
• By-Law #21-65: Official Plan amendment for 243 Causley Street
• By-Law #21-66: Firearms by-law
• By-Law #21-67: Traffic by-law
• Minor variance application V21-010 for 36 Beech Drive

Council approved the 2022-2024 CUPE collective agreement for Local 2616, as recommended by the Negotiating Committee. They also approved several other items, including declaring courthouse furniture surplus, granting a minor variance at 36 Beech Drive, adopting the winter operations plan, and passing several by-laws. The traffic by-law was deferred.

• Approved 2022-2024 CUPE Collective Agreement for Local 2616 (carried)
• Declared courthouse furniture surplus and authorized one-time exception to disposal policy (carried)
• Granted minor variance at 36 Beech Drive for lot coverage, loft size, setbacks (carried)
• Adopted 2021-2022 Winter Operations Plan (carried)
• Approved $5,538 transfer from Future Project Reserve for pedestrian crossover (carried)
• Approved reallocation of remaining capital/operating budget for Blind River Dam (carried)
• Passed By-law #21-64 (zoning amendment) and #21-65 (official plan amendment) for 243 Causley Street (carried)
• Passed By-law #21-66 (firearms) and deferred By-law #21-67 (traffic) (carried/deferred)

Special Council Meeting

This is a special council meeting with a closed session to receive legal advice protected by solicitor-client privilege. The only public action is a confirming by-law (21-63) to adopt the proceedings. No substantive public decisions or discussions are on the agenda.

• Closed session for legal advice under solicitor-client privilege
• Confirming By-law 21-63 to approve meeting proceedings

The Blind River Town Council met in a special session on November 10, 2021, and immediately moved into a closed meeting to discuss solicitor-client privileged legal advice. The council resumed open session at 4:43 p.m., reported on the closed session, and then passed a by-law to adopt the minutes of the meeting. No substantive public decisions were made; the meeting was procedural only.

• Approved the agenda and closed meeting agenda (21-363)
• Moved into closed session for legal advice (21-364)
• Resumed open meeting at 4:43 p.m. (21-365)
• Authorized signing of By-law #21-63 to adopt the minutes (21-366)
• Adjourned the meeting at 4:44 p.m. (21-367)

Infrastructure Services Committee

The Blind River Infrastructure Services Committee is meeting to review its agenda, adopt previous minutes, and hear a report from the Director of Public Services covering October 5 to November 3, 2021. No specific decisions or proposals are listed beyond routine administrative items.

• Public Services Report Oct 5 to November 3 2021
• Adoption of previous minutes from Oct 13, 2021 meeting

The Infrastructure Services Committee meeting was largely procedural, approving the agenda and the minutes from October 13, 2021. No formal decisions were made; discussions included follow-ups on the parking lot at 12 Hudson, the courthouse demolition bid, and drainage concerns on Queen Street and Victoria Avenue. A full drainage report will be brought to Council.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Adopted minutes of October 13, 2021

Protective Services Committee

The Blind River Protective Services Committee is meeting to review administrative reports and consider two by-laws: a traffic by-law and a firearms by-law. The agenda is largely procedural, with no public presentations or addendum items listed.

• Review of September and October Protective Services Report
• Traffic By-Law No. 21-XX with schedules and set fines
• Firearms By-law 21-XX and new firearms by-law
• Adoption of minutes from September 14, 2021

The Protective Services Committee met and approved the agenda and previous minutes. It recommended that Council approve the Traffic By-Law and the Firearms By-Law as presented. The committee also discussed the Director of Protective Services' September and October report, with a plan to update the website portal for public feedback tracking.

• Approved meeting agenda as presented
• Adopted minutes of September 14, 2021 meeting
• Recommended Council approve Traffic By-Law as presented
• Recommended Council approve Firearms By-Law as presented

Council Meeting

Blind River Council's regular meeting includes administrative reports, committee recommendations, and several by-laws. Key items include accepting a tender for a new aerial fire truck, a proposed pay increase for volunteer firefighters, and a by-law to apply for a loan from the Ontario Infrastructure and Lands Corporation for the truck. The meeting also includes routine items like adopting previous minutes and a closed session for personnel and legal matters.

• By-Law #21-60: Application to Ontario Infrastructure and Lands Corporation for a loan to fund a Pierce Ascendant 107' Aerial fire truck
• Director of Protective Services report on Aerial Truck Tender Acceptance
• Deputy Clerk report on Digital Signature Software purchase
• Director of Protective Services report on Volunteer Firefighter Pay Increase
• By-Law #21-61: Authorization to enter into extension agreements under the Municipal Act, 2001

Council accepted a proposal from Commercial Emergency Equipment CO. for a 107' Pierce Ascending Aerial fire truck, paying upfront in full to receive a $23,500 discount, for a total of $1,255,990 + HST. Council also committed to applying a water levy to all properties with municipal water access, with options to be presented later. Several other administrative items were approved, including road closures for the Santa Claus Parade and a digital signature software subscription.

• Approved purchase of 107' Pierce Ascending Aerial fire truck for $1,255,990 + HST (carried)
• Committed to applying a water levy to properties with municipal water access (carried)
• Approved road closures for Santa Claus Parade on Nov 19, 2021 (carried)
• Authorized procurement of Notarius (ConsignO) digital signature software at $1,599 annually (carried)
• Adopted Volunteer Firefighter Pay Structure as presented (carried)
• Authorized road closures for 'Witches Walk' on Oct 15, 2022 (carried)
• Passed By-Law #21-60 for OLIC long-term financing application (carried)
• Passed By-Law #21-61 delegating authority for tax arrears extension agreements (carried)

Community Services Committee

The Blind River Community Services Committee is meeting to review and discuss the Director of Facilities & Community Services' October meeting report and the 2021 project guide. The agenda also includes adoption of previous minutes and standard procedural items. No specific decisions or proposals are detailed in the agenda text.

• Director of Facilities & Community Services October Meeting Report
• 2021 project guide (October meeting report attachment)

The committee met and handled routine procedural matters only. It adopted the agenda and the minutes from the September 16 and September 29, 2021 meetings. A report from the Director of Facilities & Community Services was reviewed and discussed, but no substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted the agenda as presented (carried)
• Adopted minutes of September 16 and September 29, 2021 meetings (carried)
• Adjourned at 4:01 p.m. (carried)

Budget Committee

The Blind River Budget Committee is meeting to discuss the 2022 budget, including a report from the Treasurer, other budget considerations such as the Mill Yard Project, and the Council Budget. The agenda includes attachments on the Town Hall Plan opinion letter and reserve continuity. This is a working session to review and discuss budget items, not a final decision-making meeting.

• 2022 Budget Discussion with Treasurer's report
• Blind River Town Hall Plan opinion letter dated Oct 5, 2021
• Reserve Continuity report
• Mill Yard Project consideration
• Council Budget review

The Blind River Budget Committee recommended that Council commit to applying a water levy to all properties with access to municipal water services. The motion was carried unanimously. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was otherwise procedural.

• Recommended water levy for all properties with municipal water access (carried unanimously)

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The Blind River Corporate Services Committee is meeting to review administrative reports and discuss several operational items. These include a proposed digital signature software purchase, a volunteer firefighter pay increase, a report on drones, and updates on taxes and water receivables. The meeting is primarily a discussion and decision-making session on these administrative matters.

• Digital Signature Software Purchase
• Volunteer Firefighter Pay Increase
• Drones report and safety guidelines
• Taxes Receivable September 2021
• Water Receivables September 2021

The Corporate Services Committee recommended Council authorize the procurement of Notarius (ConsignO) digital signature software at $1,599 annually, and adopt the Volunteer Firefighter Pay Structure with a comparable wage chart. Staff will research drone options for municipal enforcement. No final decisions were made; recommendations were forwarded to Council.

• Recommended Council authorize Notarius (ConsignO) digital signature software at $1,599 annually (carried)
• Recommended Council adopt Volunteer Firefighter Pay Structure with comparable wage chart (carried)
• Approved agenda as presented (carried)
• Adopted September 27, 2021 minutes as presented (carried)
• Adjourned at 10:55 a.m. (carried)

Special Council Meeting

This is a special council meeting that is largely procedural, with the main substantive item being a closed session to discuss personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees. The agenda also includes routine items such as approving the agenda, declarations of pecuniary interest, a report on the closed session, a confirming by-law (21-58), and adjournment.

• Closed session under Section 4.1: personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees
• Confirming By-law 21-58 dated October 20, 2021

Blind River Council held a special meeting on October 20, 2021, and approved the allocation of remaining Modernization Reserve funds for three projects: replacing the town's server, additional Maintenance Manager training/implementation, and purchasing Public Works cell phones. The meeting also included a closed session on personnel matters, and the minutes were adopted via By-law #21-59.

• Approved allocation of remaining Modernization Reserve funds for server replacement, Maintenance Manager training, and Public Works cell phones (carried)
• Approved agenda and closed meeting agenda (carried)
• Held closed session on personnel matters (carried)
• Resumed open meeting after closed session (carried)
• Adopted minutes via By-law #21-59 (carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 4:57 p.m. (carried)

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council is holding a regular meeting with several items for decision or discussion, including a water levy report, a presentation on land survey results, and multiple by-laws covering zoning amendments, a temporary use, an infrastructure funding agreement, and parking regulations. The agenda also includes routine items like minutes approval, committee reports, and a closed session for labour relations.

Council accepted Barne Building & Construction Inc.'s $340,497.82 proposal for Tourist Information Centre upgrades, funded by reserves and budget allocations. They also adopted the Land Report, initiated rezoning for 243A Causley Street, and passed several by-laws including zoning amendments and a temporary use permit. All decisions were carried unanimously or with recorded votes.

• Approved $340,497.82 Tourist Information Centre upgrade contract to Barne Building & Construction Inc. (carried)
• Adopted Tulloch Engineering Land Report and authorized rezoning process for 243A Causley Street (carried)
• Approved water levy calculation method including all buildable lots and rates for multi-residential, commercial, industrial (carried)
• Declared Courthouse parking lot surplus and authorized approach to ADSAB for purchase (carried)
• Adopted North Shore Community Safety and Well-being Plan with $1,000 budget for 2022 (carried)
• Passed By-law #21-53 amending zoning for 13 Victoria Avenue (carried)
• Passed By-law #21-54 temporary use for 1617 Highway 557 (carried, with conflicts declared)
• Passed By-law #21-55 for ICIP COVID-19 Resilience funding agreement (carried)

Public Meeting - Planning

This is a public meeting of Blind River Town Council to consider two planning applications: a zoning by-law amendment for 1617 Highway 557 and one for 13 Victoria Avenue. The agenda includes technical reports and correspondence from residents regarding the Victoria Avenue application. No decisions are listed; the meeting is for discussion and public input.

• ZBL 21-006: 1617 Highway 557
• ZBL 21-005: 13 Victoria Avenue
• Public comments from Michael French, Marie Kirchmeir, Wolf Kirchmeir, and Terry Spooner re: 13 Victoria Avenue

The Blind River Town Council held a public meeting to discuss two planning applications: a temporary zoning by-law amendment for 1617 Highway 557 to allow an RV on site during construction of a permanent dwelling, and a zoning by-law amendment for 13 Victoria Avenue to permit a secondary dwelling unit in a detached garage. No votes were taken; the meeting was for discussion only, and no decisions were made.

• No formal decisions made; meeting was for public input and discussion only

Infrastructure Services Committee

The Blind River Infrastructure Services Committee is meeting to discuss routine administrative items, including adoption of previous minutes and several staff reports. Key items include well rehabilitation reports for Wells No. 5 and No. 8, a proposed court house parking lot project, and an update on the Suncor remediation project. No public presentations or addendum items are listed.

• Well No. 5 and Well No. 8 reports from Lotowater
• Court House Parking Lot and Hudson Street Parking Lot reports
• Suncor Remediation Project update with Stantec email
• Public Services report for September 2 to October 4, 2021

Police Services Board

The Blind River Police Services Board is meeting to handle routine administrative business, including adopting previous minutes and receiving Ontario Provincial Police reports for July and August 2021. The agenda contains no major decisions or public hearings, only standard procedural items and informational reports.

• Adoption of September 14, 2021 meeting minutes
• OPP Integrated Court Offence Network report for July 2021
• OPP police report for August 2021

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council's regular meeting covers administrative reports, committee updates, and several by-laws. Council will consider a new nuisance by-law, an accessible trail project agreement with Mississauga First Nation, and a drone policy. The agenda also includes routine items like minutes adoption, correspondence, and a closed session for personnel and labour relations matters.

• By-Law #21-50: Nuisance By-Law
• By-Law #21-51: Accessible Trail Project Agreement with Mississauga First Nation and JI Enterprises
• Drone By-Law policy report from S. Hagman
• 2021 Project Tracking Capital and Operating report
• Huron Pines Golf Course Board request

Council approved a $71,198.79 + HST bid from JI Enterprises for the accessible trail loop expansion on the Youngfox/Eldorado Trail, in partnership with Mississauga First Nation, and authorized signing the related by-law. Council also approved pre-budget purchase of 12 golf carts for Huron Pines Golf Course, continued the Community Improvement Plan with $30,000 annually for five years, passed a nuisance by-law, and authorized a $215 donation to Nogdawindamin. All motions carried unanimously.

• Approved $71,198.79 + HST bid from JI Enterprises for accessible trail expansion (carried)
• Authorized signing By-law #21-51 for trail construction agreement (carried)
• Approved pre-budget purchase of 12 golf carts for Huron Pines Golf Course (carried)
• Continued Community Improvement Plan with $30,000 annually for 5 years (carried)
• Passed By-law #21-50 to regulate public nuisances (carried)
• Authorized $215 donation to Nogdawindamin event (carried)
• Directed CAO to develop grant submission policy (carried)
• Authorized investigation of drone policies (carried)

Special Council Meeting

This special council meeting is focused on two administrative reports regarding COVID-19 vaccine policies. Council will consider a staff vaccine policy and a facility vaccine procedure, including proof-of-vaccination screening for arenas. The meeting is scheduled for 30 minutes and includes only these items plus standard procedural motions.

• Staff Vaccine Policy - COVID 19
• Facility Vaccine Procedure - COVID 19
• Proof of Vaccination (arenas) - Screeners Info
• Facility Screener - job ad

Council adopted a Staff Vaccine Policy for COVID-19 and authorized a Facility Vaccine Procedure, including creating two temporary screener positions and allowing paid security if needed, funded by COVID Recovery funds. All votes were unanimous.

• Adopted Staff Vaccine Policy - COVID 19 (unanimous)
• Authorized creation of two Screener temporary positions for facility vaccine checks (unanimous)
• Authorized CAO to secure paid security for facilities if needed (unanimous)
• Approved use of COVID Recovery funds for screener positions (unanimous)

Community Services Committee

The Blind River Community Services Committee is meeting to review its agenda, adopt previous minutes, and discuss business arising. The main item is an administrative report from the Director of Facilities & Community Services, including a September update, a 2021 project guide, and a Jays Care Foundation final report. No public presentations or correspondence are listed, and the meeting is largely procedural.

• September Community Services Update report
• 2021 project guide SEPTEMBER MEETING REPORT
• Jays Care Foundation final reporting

The Blind River Community Services Committee met on September 29, 2021, and handled only procedural matters. It adopted the meeting agenda and the minutes from the June 30, 2021 meeting. A report from the Director of Facilities & Community Services was reviewed and discussed, but no formal decisions were made. The meeting adjourned at 4:29 p.m.

• Adopted the meeting agenda as presented (carried)
• Adopted the minutes of the June 30, 2021 meeting as presented (carried)

Budget Committee

The Blind River Budget Committee directed the Treasurer to prepare a report on a potential Water and Sewer Levy for 2022. It also recommended Council accept Option A for the Community Improvement Plan, earmarking $30,000 annually for five years through 2027. The meeting was procedural with no other substantive decisions.

• Directed Treasurer to prepare report on potential Water and Sewer Levy for 2022 (carried)
• Recommended Council accept Option A for Community Improvement Plan, $30,000/year for 5 years to 2027 (carried)

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The Blind River Corporate Services Committee approved the agenda and previous minutes, and received reports on taxes and water receivables. The only substantive decision was a motion requesting the CAO/Clerk to investigate municipal policies or by-laws on drone use and report back with recommendations. The meeting was brief and largely procedural.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Adopted minutes of August 30, 2021
• Requested CAO/Clerk to investigate drone policies and report back

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council is meeting to review a KPMG user fee review, consider a Voterview agreement with Datafix, and discuss joining the Canoe Procurement Group. The council will also receive updates on service delivery and correspondence from the province and local agencies. A closed session is scheduled for personnel, land, and labour matters.

• KPMG User Fee Review presentation and final report
• Voterview Agreement with Datafix
• Canoe Procurement Group membership
• 2022-23 Connecting Links Program correspondence
• Closed session on personnel, land, and labour relations

Council authorized the CAO/Clerk to apply for a grant to repair the Indiana Tennis Courts ($350,000), relocate the Basketball Court and Birch Street Baseball field to Birch Street ($200,000), for a total project ask of $580,000. Existing 2021 capital funds, contingency, and insurance monies will cover the municipal share, requiring $0 additional taxpayer funding. The motion carried with one abstention (S. Wells).

• Approved agenda and addendum (carried)
• Adopted minutes of September 7, 2021 meeting (carried)
• Authorized CAO/Clerk to enter VoterView agreement with DataFix for 2022 election, using $7,500 from Election Reserve (carried)
• Authorized Fire Chief to prepare ladder truck tender through LAS/Canoe program (carried)
• Supported Tay Valley Township's request for additional lottery licensing for small organizations (carried)
• Approved $580,000 grant application for tennis courts, basketball court, and baseball field relocation (carried, 5 yea, 1 abstention)
• Authorized NOHFC internship application for Community Event Planner/Partner Liaison (carried)
• Adopted confirming by-law #21-49 (carried)

Community Services Committee

The Community Services Committee recommended that Council authorize the CAO/Clerk to apply for a grant totaling $580,000 to repair the Indiana Tennis Courts, relocate the Basketball Court to Birch Street, and incorporate the Birch Street Baseball field, with no additional taxpayer funding required. The committee also supported grant submissions linked to key planning documents and directed the CAO to develop a grant policy.

• Recommended $350,000 for Indiana Tennis Courts repair and $200,000 for relocating basketball and baseball fields to Birch Street, total $580,000 (carried)
• Supported grant applications linked to Tulloch Facility Report, Strategic Plan, Council Vision, or Annual Approved Budget (carried)
• Directed CAO to develop a grant submission policy and update guiding documents (carried)

Protective Services Committee

The Blind River Protective Services Committee is meeting to review the Director of Protective Services' July and August report, discuss a nuisance by-law, and consider correspondence from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing and 2021 EMCPA exercise requirements. The agenda also includes routine items like adopting previous minutes and declarations of conflict of interest.

• Review of Director of Protective Services July & August report
• Discussion of Nuisance By-Law
• Correspondence from Deputy Minister Kate Manson-Smith (Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing)
• 2021 EMCPA Exercise and Training Requirements memo
• Adoption of minutes from June 8, 2021

The Protective Services Committee reviewed reports and correspondence, and recommended that the Nuisance By-law be sent to Council for consideration. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural.

• Recommended Nuisance By-law be sent to Council
• Accepted agenda as presented
• Accepted minutes of June 8, 2021 meeting

Police Services Board

The Blind River Police Services Board is meeting to review monthly Ontario Provincial Police reports for May, June, and July 2021, along with speed sign data from the Director of Protective Services. The board will also consider correspondence, including a letter from the City of Elliot Lake about police board composition for the East Algoma OPP and a financial report on detachment revenue.

• OPP monthly reports for May, June, and July 2021
• Speed sign data report from Director of Protective Services
• Correspondence from City of Elliot Lake re: police board composition for East Algoma OPP
• OPP MPB Financial Services Unit report on April–June 2021 detachment revenue

The Blind River Police Services Board approved the agenda, adopted the June 8, 2021 minutes, and accepted the Ontario Provincial Police monthly reports for May, June, and July 2021 as presented. The board also noted that speed limit signs have been posted in Birchwood Circle and discussed correspondence regarding police board composition for the East Algoma OPP. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved agenda as presented (carried)
• Adopted minutes of June 8, 2021 meeting (carried)
• Accepted OPP monthly reports for May, June, July 2021 (carried)

Water and Wastewater Committee

The Blind River Water & Wastewater Committee is meeting to review its agenda, adopt previous minutes, and handle routine administrative items. The main substantive items are presentations from the PUC, Tulloch Engineering, and Algoma Public Health, though no specific decisions or details are listed in the agenda.

• PUC presentation
• Tulloch Engineering presentation
• Algoma Public Health presentation
• Adoption of previous minutes
• Business arising from the minutes

The Blind River Water and Wastewater Committee met on September 8, 2021, and approved the agenda and previous minutes. They received reports from PUC Services, Tulloch Engineering, and Algoma Public Health. Tulloch noted that CIMA is conducting an intake source assessment and facility review, and that an application is being prepared for funding for a new intake source. The tender for the Water Tower Assessment is expected to be released soon. No formal decisions were made beyond routine approvals.

• Approved agenda as presented (carried)
• Adopted minutes of June 9, 2021, meeting as presented (carried)

Infrastructure Services Committee

The Infrastructure Services Committee approved the agenda and the minutes from June 9, 2021. No formal decisions were made; members reviewed reports on public services and the SaniDump, and received updates on landfill activities, the Town Hall water supply switch, and the Senior's Centre roof.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Adopted minutes of June 9, 2021

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council is meeting to consider administrative reports, including ICIP Green Funding, group benefits renewal, tennis courts, playground equipment, a minor variance, and a Handi-Transit RFP award. They will also review policies, reserve transfers, and by-laws, including an agreement for Woodward Avenue improvements and a traffic by-law amendment. The agenda includes several public presentations and a closed session for personnel and land matters.

• ICIP Green Funding report
• Group Health Benefits Renewal 2021-2022
• Indiana Tennis Courts and Trillium Grant Partnership
• Shirvon Playground equipment removal and greenspace creation
• By-Law #21-45: Woodward Avenue Improvements agreement

Blind River Council approved several key items, including renewing group benefits with Equitable Life, awarding a Handi-Transit contract to A.J. Bus Lines, and directing staff to create policies requiring double vaccination for municipal employees and visitors to municipal facilities. They also approved a $215,000 budget for a communications tower in 2022, and created a full-time Tourism Ambassador and Economic Development Assistant position. A request to fund repairs to the Indiana Tennis Courts was deferred.

• Approved Group Benefits renewal with Equitable Life at 3.32% increase (carried)
• Deferred Indiana Tennis Courts repair application ($580,000 ask)
• Approved $55,000 for Shirvon Park remediation in 2022 budget (recorded vote, carried)
• Granted minor variance at 1894 Highway 557 (carried)
• Awarded Handi-Transit contract to A.J. Bus Lines ($10,750.80) (carried)
• Directed creation of policy to prohibit unvaccinated individuals from municipal facilities (carried)
• Directed creation of policy mandating double vaccination for municipal employees (carried)
• Approved $215,000 for 200' communications tower in 2022 budget (carried)

Public Meeting - Planning

This is a public meeting of the Town Council, held to consider a planning application (V21-009) for 1894 Highway 557. The agenda includes only this one planning item, along with standard procedural items like approval of the agenda and declarations of interest. No other business is listed.

• Planning application V21-009 for 1894 Highway 557

The Blind River Town Council held a special public meeting on September 7, 2021, to consider planning application V21-009 for 1894 Highway 557. No comments were received on the application, and the meeting was adjourned without any substantive decisions or votes on the application.

• Approved the agenda as presented (carried)
• Adjourned the public meeting at 6:35 p.m. (carried)

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The Corporate Services Committee made several recommendations to Council, including adopting policies on civic recognition of deceased council members and employees, a customer service policy, and the Accessibility Plan 2021-2026. It also recommended funding a pedestrian crossover with $15,000 from reserves, amending the Reserve and Reserve Fund Policy with specific fund allocations, transferring funds for the Dawsey Culvert pre-engineering and future projects, and allocating $1,200 for vaccine clinic hall rental. The committee also recommended recognizing September 30, 2021 as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

• Recommended Council adopt the Civic Recognition on the Death of Council Member - Current or Former Policy.
• Recommended Council adopt the Death of a Current or Retired Employee Policy, as amended.
• Recommended Council approve $15,000 transfer from Future Projects Reserve for a pedestrian crossover with light bars and sound PXO system.
• Recommended Council accept the Blind River Accessibility Plan 2021-2026.
• Recommended Council adopt the Blind River Customer Service Policy.
• Recommended Council accept amended Schedule 'A' to the Reserve and Reserve Fund Policy, with specific fund allocations for Marine Park, Parks & Rec, and Special Events.
• Recommended Council transfer funds from Bridge Reserve for Dawsey Culvert pre-engineering, and $10,000 for Arena Doors and $20,000 for Palace Theatre Sound System to Future Projects Reserve.
• Recommended Council allocate $1,200 for vaccine clinic hall rental and snow removal from COVID-19 Safe Restart fund, and continue vaccine services at Community Centre until Dec 31, 2021.

Special Council Meeting

Council authorized an additional $144,197.56 from Federal Gas Tax funding to complete the Woodward Avenue Sidewalk Project, which came in over budget. The motion was carried. The meeting also approved the agenda and adopted the minutes via by-law.

• Approved additional $144,197.56 for Woodward Ave sidewalks from Federal Gas Tax (carried)
• Approved agenda as presented (carried)
• Authorized signing of by-law to adopt minutes (carried)

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council's regular meeting covers administrative reports, correspondence, and by-laws. Key items include a public presentation on Shirvon Playground, a Handi Transit services report, a Community Improvement Plan update, and three by-laws: deeming 238 Woodward Avenue, a landfill drainage agreement, and a well rehabilitation contract. Council will also consider fire truck replacement options and several correspondence items from other municipalities.

• Public presentation by Ben Wiesner re: Shirvon Playground
• Report on Blind River Handi Transit Services with ridership data
• By-Law #21-40: Deeming By-Law for 238 Woodward Avenue
• By-Law #21-41: Landfill Surface Water Management Drainage Improvements Agreement
• By-Law #21-42: Well Rehabilitation 2021 Agreement with Lotowater Technical Services

Council gave pre-budget approval for 2022 to tender/purchase an aerial/ladder fire truck, using $400,000 from the NWMO Community Well-Being Reserve and debenturing the balance over 10 years. Council also directed the CAO to negotiate the transition of handi-transit bus services with the North Shore Health Network. A motion to support raising Ontario's minimum driving age from 16 to 18 was defeated.

• Approved pre-budget 2022 fire truck purchase, $400K from NWMO reserve, balance debentured (carried)
• Directed CAO to negotiate handi-transit bus service transition with North Shore Health Network (carried)
• Approved Muskoka Chair Policy as amended (carried)
• Directed staff report on Shirvon playground costs before 2022 budget (carried, 6-0)
• Defeated motion to support raising minimum driving age to 18 (defeated)
• Supported banning unencapsulated polystyrene foam (carried)
• Supported Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action implementation (carried)
• Authorized $200 donation to Water First NGO (carried)

Special Council Meeting

This is a special council meeting of the Town of Blind River, held July 27, 2021, from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. The agenda is almost entirely procedural: call to order, approval of the agenda, declarations of interest, and a closed session for solicitor-client privileged advice regarding an agreement. No public decisions or substantive items are listed; the only actionable item is the closed session, followed by a report and adjournment.

• Closed session for advice subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose, regarding an Agreement

The special meeting was largely procedural: council approved the agenda, entered a closed session for solicitor-client privileged advice regarding a proposed agreement, and resumed open session with no substantive public decisions. The only action taken in open session was adopting the meeting minutes via By-law #21-39 and adjourning.

• Approved agenda as presented (carried)
• Entered closed session for solicitor-client privileged advice on a proposed agreement (carried)
• Resumed open meeting at 4:45 p.m. (carried)
• Authorized signing of By-law #21-39 to adopt the meeting minutes (carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 4:46 p.m. (carried)

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The Corporate Services Committee recommended that Council approve the Muskoka Chair Policy as amended and give pre-budget approval for 2022 to tender/purchase an aerial/ladder fire truck, using $400,000 from the NWMO Community Well-Being Reserve and debenturing the balance over 10 years. The committee also reviewed reports on Town Hall reopening and property sales but took no formal action on those items.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Adopted minutes of June 28, 2021 meeting
• Recommended Council approve Muskoka Chair Policy as amended
• Recommended pre-budget approval for 2022 to tender/purchase aerial/ladder truck, with $400,000 from NWMO Community Well-Being Reserve and balance debentured over 10 years

Infrastructure Services Committee

The Blind River Infrastructure Services Committee is meeting to review routine administrative reports, including a public works activity report and an update on the SaniDump facility. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Public Works Activity Report June 4 - July 6 2021
• SaniDump Update to June 30 2021
• SaniDump Status June 30 2021
• Adoption of previous minutes (June 9, 2021)

The Infrastructure Services Committee approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the June 9, 2021 meeting. They reviewed and discussed the Public Services Report for June 4 to July 6, 2021, and the Treasurer's Sani-Dump update to June 30, 2021. Councillor Roy raised a concern about grass cutting debris on roads, which the Director of Public Services agreed to address with the Director of Facilities and Community Services. The meeting adjourned at 9:37 a.m.

• Approved the agenda as presented.
• Accepted the minutes of the June 9, 2021 meeting as presented.
• Reviewed and discussed the Public Services Report for June 4 to July 6, 2021.
• Reviewed and discussed the Treasurer's Sani-Dump update to June 30, 2021.
• Agreed to bring the grass cutting issue to the Director of Facilities and Community Services.

BRDC

The Blind River Development Corporation is meeting to review its 2020 audited financial statements, an application regarding 243 Causley Street, and updates on grant-funded recreation and tourism projects. The board will also adopt minutes from its June 8, 2021 meeting. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda itself.

• 2020 audited financial statements
• 243 Causley Street application
• Recreation and tourism projects grant updates
• Adoption of June 8, 2021 minutes

The Blind River Development Corporation approved a submission to the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation for upgrades to the Tourist Information Centre at 243 Causley Street, including a $75,000 cash contribution and absorbing any cost overruns. The board also supported a joint application with Mississauga First Nation for a Downtown River Enhancement project. The 2020 audited financial statements were accepted, and the June 8, 2021 minutes were approved.

• Approved the minutes of the June 8, 2021 meeting.
• Accepted the 2020 audited financial statements.
• Approved Project 7510023 submission to NOHFC for Tourist Information Centre upgrades, with a $75,000 cash contribution and cost overrun absorption.
• Supported an application to NOHFC for the Downtown River Enhancement project in collaboration with Mississauga First Nation.

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council is holding its regular meeting on July 12, 2021. The agenda includes a public presentation on a petition regarding playground equipment removal at Pronto West Subdivision, a zoning by-law amendment for 32 Michigan Avenue, and several administrative reports on ongoing projects, grants, and service delivery. Council will also consider policies on key holders, Muskoka chairs, and traditional territory acknowledgement, plus a tender report for the Kresin Landfill.

• Public presentation: Petition to not designate Shirvon (Pronto West Subdivision) playground as green space
• By-Law #21-37: Zoning amendment for 32 Michigan Avenue
• Kresin Landfill Tender Report
• Update on Ladder 7 (fire equipment)
• Key Holder Policy, Muskoka Chair Policy, Traditional Territory Acknowledgement Policy

Council approved the purchase of a MaxiMetal PIC Pumper Truck for $405,000, funded from reserves with repayment over 10 years at 0% interest, and accepted a $149,058.30 tender for landfill drainage improvements. The Muskoka Chair Policy was deferred, while the Key Holder and Traditional Territory Acknowledgement policies were adopted. A motion to reconsider the Shirvon playground decommission was introduced, and a zoning amendment at 32 Michigan Avenue was passed.

• Approved $149,058.30 tender for Kresin Landfill drainage improvements (carried)
• Authorized purchase of MaxiMetal PIC Pumper Truck for $405,000 (carried)
• Requested Corporate Services review of $800,000 pre-budget for pumper truck replacement (carried)
• Authorized $250,000/year fire truck reserve allocation starting 2023 (carried)
• Adopted Key Holder Policy (carried)
• Deferred Muskoka Chair Policy
• Adopted Traditional Territory Acknowledgement Policy (carried)
• Passed By-law #21-37 zoning amendment at 32 Michigan Avenue (carried)

Public Meeting - Planning

The Town Council is holding a public meeting to consider a zoning bylaw amendment (ZBL 21-003) for the property at 32 Michigan Avenue. The agenda includes only this planning application, along with standard procedural items. No other business is listed.

• Zoning bylaw amendment ZBL 21-003 for 32 Michigan Avenue

Community Services Committee

The Blind River Community Services Committee is meeting to review routine administrative items, including adoption of previous minutes and a report from the Director of Facilities & Community Services on June 2021 updates. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Adoption of May 26, 2021 meeting minutes
• Director of Facilities & Community Services report on June 2021 updates
• 2021 project guide June summary

The meeting was largely procedural. The committee accepted the agenda, adopted the minutes from the May 26, 2021 meeting, and reviewed the Director of Facilities & Community Services' June 2021 updates. No substantive decisions were made beyond routine approvals.

• Accepted the agenda as presented (carried)
• Adopted the minutes of the May 26, 2021 meeting (carried)
• Adjourned at 4:38 p.m. (carried)

Budget Committee

The Blind River Budget Committee is meeting to review financial results for May 2021, project tracking, and reserve continuity, as well as reports on municipal landfill drainage improvements and fire truck replacement. The agenda includes standard procedural items and administrative reports; no decisions are listed, only discussion items.

• Financial results for May 31, 2021
• 2021 project tracking update
• 2021 reserve continuity report
• Municipal landfill drainage improvements
• Fire truck replacement and Ladder 7 update

The Budget Committee recommended that Council authorize the purchase of a MaxiMetal PIC Pumper Truck for $405,000, funded by the Capital Fire Truck Reserve and Future Projects Reserve, with repayment over 10 years at 0% interest. It also recommended pre-budget approval for 2022 to replace the 19-year-old pumper truck for $800,000, to be tendered this year, and a $250,000 annual allocation to the fire truck reserve starting in 2023. Additionally, the committee recommended accepting a $149,058.30 tender from Algoma Bio-Septic Technologies for landfill drainage improvements, funded from the Landfill Expansion Reserve. All recommendations were carried.

• Recommended purchase of MaxiMetal PIC Pumper Truck for $405,000 (carried)
• Recommended pre-budget approval for 2022 replacement of 19-year-old pumper truck for $800,000 (carried)
• Recommended $250,000 annual allocation to fire truck reserve starting 2023 (carried)
• Recommended accepting Algoma Bio-Septic Technologies tender for landfill drainage improvements at $149,058.30 (carried)

Community Improvement Plan Committee

The Blind River Community Improvement Plan Committee is meeting to review administrative reports on CIP promotion, 2020-2021 reporting, investment impact, and program progress. The agenda includes adoption of previous minutes and standard procedural items. No public presentations or correspondence are listed.

• Review of CIP promotion news article
• Report on sites that used CIP in 2020-2021
• CIP investment impact article from Sudbury Star
• 2020-2021 CIP progress update and summary

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The Corporate Services Committee will review several administrative reports. These include updates on property sales and the building department for May 2021.

• Key Holder Policy report
• Muskoka Chair Policy report
• Traditional Territory Acknowledgement Policy report
• Creating Accessible Documents report
• Property Sales Update

The Corporate Services Committee reviewed administrative reports and recommended that Council adopt three new policies: Key Holder, Muskoka Chair, and Traditional Territory Acknowledgement. Reports on accessible documents, property sales, and the Building Department were discussed but no decisions were made on them. The meeting was procedural and adjourned at 10:54 a.m.

• Recommended Council adopt Key Holder Policy (carried)
• Recommended Council approve Muskoka Chair Policy (carried)
• Recommended Council adopt Traditional Territory Acknowledgement Policy (carried)

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council is meeting to consider the 2021 tax rate by-law, review proposals from CIMA for the water treatment plant, and hear the 2020 financial statement presentation from KPMG. Council will also discuss results of a council restructuring survey and a Canada Day swag request. The agenda includes several routine items such as minutes adoption and correspondence.

• By-Law #21-34 setting 2021 tax rates
• CIMA proposals for water treatment plant facility review and intake location feasibility
• KPMG presentation on 2020 draft financial statements for the town, development corp, and library board
• Council restructuring survey results
• Canada Day swag request

Council authorized the CAO to sign agreements with CIMA for a water treatment plant review ($25,244 + HST) and a location feasibility study ($36,209 + HST), funded from the Water Reserve. Council also accepted the 2020 financial statements, approved the 2021 tax rate by-law, and accepted a $128,000 tender for Sellers Beach upgrades. Council voted to keep its current seven-member structure.

• Approved CIMA water plant review and feasibility study totaling $61,453 + HST from Water Reserve (carried)
• Accepted 2020 financial statements as presented by KPMG (carried)
• Voted to keep seven-member council (carried)
• Authorized one-time donation of Canada Day items to North Shore EarlyON (carried)
• Passed By-law #21-34 setting 2021 tax rates (carried)
• Accepted Beamish Construction tender for Sellers Beach upgrades at $128,000 (carried)
• Passed By-law #21-35 authorizing agreement with Beamish Construction (carried)
• Held closed session on litigation and legal advice; no decisions reported

Infrastructure Services Committee

The Blind River Infrastructure Services Committee is meeting to review administrative reports, including a SaniDump update to May 31, 2021, and a public works activity report covering May 6 to June 3, 2021. The agenda also includes routine items like adoption of previous minutes and declarations of conflict of interest. No decisions are listed; items are for discussion and information.

• SaniDump update to May 31, 2021
• Public Works Activity Report May 6 - June 3, 2021
• Causley Street Bridge 2021 warranty repair work status
• Woodward Ave pavement condition assessment memo

The Infrastructure Services Committee met and approved the agenda and the minutes from the May 12, 2021 meeting. No substantive decisions were made; discussions covered tree removal at Hillside Cemetery, a work permit application for the Boom Camp boat launch, and updates on SaniDump and public services. The meeting adjourned after 23 minutes.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Accepted minutes of May 12, 2021 meeting

Water and Wastewater Committee

The Blind River Water & Wastewater Committee is holding its regular meeting on June 9, 2021. The agenda includes standard procedural items such as call to order, review of agenda, declarations of conflict, adoption of previous minutes, and business arising. Scheduled presentations include the PUC, Tulloch Engineering, and Algoma Public Health, but no specific details or reports are listed in the agenda text.

• Adoption of March 10, 2021 meeting minutes
• PUC presentation
• Tulloch Engineering presentation
• Algoma Public Health presentation

The committee approved the meeting agenda and adopted the March 10, 2021 minutes. It heard reports from PUC Services, Tulloch Engineering, and Algoma Public Health, including plans to reinstall solar panels on the Water Treatment Plant roof and upcoming tenders for well rehabilitation and water tower assessment. No substantive decisions were made beyond routine approvals.

• Approved the meeting agenda as presented.
• Adopted the minutes of the March 10, 2021 meeting as presented.
• Adjourned the meeting at 10:37 a.m.

Police Services Board

The Blind River Police Services Board is meeting to review routine administrative items, including adoption of previous minutes and OPP monthly reports for March and April 2021. The board will also discuss correspondence from the OPP regarding the 2022 municipal policing billing statement property count. No major decisions or public hearings are listed on this agenda.

• Adoption of April 13, 2021 meeting minutes
• OPP monthly report for March 2021
• OPP monthly report for April 2021
• Correspondence from OPP re: 2022 municipal policing billing statement property count

The Blind River Police Services Board approved the agenda and adopted the April 13, 2021 minutes. It accepted the Ontario Provincial Police monthly reports for March and April 2021 as presented. The board also heard updates on a speed by-law for Birchwood Circle and the CSWB Plan, and discussed OPP resources under the Mental Health Act. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved the agenda as presented (carried)
• Adopted the minutes of the April 13, 2021 meeting (carried)
• Accepted the OPP monthly reports for March and April 2021 (carried)
• Adjourned at 10:27 a.m. (carried)

Protective Services Committee

The Blind River Protective Services Committee is holding a routine meeting. The agenda includes adopting the minutes from May 11, 2021, and receiving the Director of Protective Services' report for May. No other substantive items are listed.

• Adoption of minutes from May 11, 2021
• Director of Protective Services May report

The Blind River Protective Services Committee met on June 8, 2021, and handled only procedural matters. Members accepted the agenda and the minutes of the May 11, 2021 meeting, and reviewed the Director of Protective Services' May report. No substantive decisions were made, and the meeting adjourned at 1:09 p.m.

• Accepted the agenda as presented
• Accepted the minutes of the May 11, 2021 meeting
• Reviewed the May report of the Director of Protective Services

BRDC

The Blind River Development Corporation is meeting to review staff reports on NSPG solar lighting and NOHFC (Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation) updates, including a Travel Centre application and Welcome Centre upgrades. The agenda also includes adoption of previous minutes and standard procedural items.

• Staff report on NSPG solar lighting with outgoing letter and trail lighting correspondence
• NOHFC update with Travel Centre Application Update and Welcome Centre Upgrades documents
• Adoption of May 11, 2021 post-meeting minutes

The Blind River Development Corporation board met on June 8, 2021, and approved the agenda and the minutes from the May 11, 2021 meeting. Staff provided updates on a $200,000 solar lighting quote for the multi-use trail, a NOHFC grant application, and a new lease with NSPG. No substantive decisions were made beyond routine approvals.

• Approved agenda as presented (carried)
• Adopted minutes of May 11, 2021 meeting (carried)
• Adjourned at 4:15 p.m. (carried)

Public Meeting - Planning

The Town Council is holding a public meeting to consider five planning applications: one consent application for lot creation at 233 Causley Street and four minor variance/permission applications at 35 Carla's Lane, 2046 Highway 557, 164 Rocky Road, and 55 Oak Road. The meeting includes agenda approval, declarations of interest, and adjournment.

• Consent Application C2021/003 – Lot creation, 233 Causley Street
• Minor Variance/Permission V2021/008 – 35 Carla's Lane
• Minor Variance/Permission V2021/007 – 2046 Highway 557
• Minor Variance/Permission V2021/006 – 164 Rocky Road
• Minor Variance/Permission V2021/005 – 55 Oak Road

The meeting was procedural only: council approved the agenda and adjourned without making any decisions on the five planning applications listed. No votes were taken on the applications themselves.

• Approved meeting agenda (21-180)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:03 p.m. (21-181)

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council is meeting to review administrative reports, consider several by-laws, and discuss property matters. Key items include a proposed vacant buildings bylaw, a speed limit bylaw, and multiple applications for minor variances and a severance. The council will also enter closed session to discuss land acquisition, disposition, and personnel matters.

• By-Law #21-30: Vacant Buildings
• By-Law #21-31: Rate of Speed (Leisure Bay, Bass Lake, Carla's Lane)
• Severance application C2021-003 at 233 Causley Street
• Minor variance applications at 164 Rocky Road, 2046 Highway 557, 35 Carla's Lane, 55 Oak Road
• Closed session: land acquisition/disposition and personnel

Council accepted KPMG's proposal for the Water Financial Plan and allocated $21,535 from the Water Reserve. It also approved funding for Sellers Beach Accessibility, granted several minor variances and a severance, and passed multiple by-laws including vacant buildings and speed restrictions.

• Approved KPMG Water Financial Plan proposal, $21,535 from Water Reserve (carried)
• Approved $28,000 from Future Projects Reserves for Sellers Beach Accessibility (carried)
• Granted provisional consent for severance at 233 Causley Street (carried)
• Granted minor variance at 164 Rocky Road for 384 sq. ft. addition (carried)
• Granted minor variance at 2046 Highway 557 for 51.1 sq. m addition (carried)
• Granted minor variance at 35 Carla's Lane for reduced side yard setback (carried)
• Granted minor variance at 55 Oak Road for increased lot coverage (carried)
• Passed By-law #21-30 (Vacant Buildings) and By-law #21-31 (Rate of Speed) (carried)

Special Council Meeting

This special council meeting is dedicated to two administrative reports from the Treasurer: one on the 2021-2022 insurance renewal and another on 2021-2022 cyber risk insurance. Council will consider these items for approval. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with no other substantive items listed.

• 2021-2022 Insurance Renewal report
• 2021-2022 Cyber Risk Insurance report and quote (Cyber 20210601 QUOTE 2217678)

Council accepted the 2021-2022 insurance renewal quote from Brokerlink for $273,316.28, directed staff to issue an RFP for general insurance and risk management services for the 2022-2023 period, and approved covering the shortfall from the Insurance Reserve. Council also accepted a cyber risk insurance quote from CFC Underwriting for $7,180 plus PST. Both motions were carried.

• Approved Brokerlink insurance renewal quote of $273,316.28 (carried)
• Directed staff to issue RFP for General Insurance and Risk Management Services for 2022-2023 (carried)
• Approved offsetting insurance shortfall from Insurance Reserve (carried)
• Approved Cyber Risk Insurance quote from CFC Underwriting for $7,180 plus PST (carried)

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The Blind River Corporate Services Committee is meeting to review administrative reports and policies. Items include an update on vacant lot sales, the April 2021 building department report, a procedural by-law amendment for electronic meeting participation, a newsletter policy review, a high water consumption credit policy, and a proposed new multi-residential tax class. The meeting also includes a closed session for labour relations or employee negotiations.

• Vacant Lot Sales Update
• Building Department Report – April 2021
• Procedural By-Law Amendment for Electronic Participation in Meetings
• High Water Consumption Credit Policy
• Tax Ratio – New Multi-Residential Tax Class

The Corporate Services Committee approved several recommendations for Council, including amending the Procedural By-Law to allow electronic participation in meetings, amending the Newsletter Policy to highlight business retention initiatives, adopting a High Water Consumption Credit Policy, and setting the tax ratio for a new multi-residential tax class at 1.1000. The committee also went into closed session to discuss labour relations. No final decisions were made, as all items are recommendations to Council.

• Recommended Council adopt amendment to By-Law #19-24 for electronic participation in meetings (carried)
• Recommended Council amend Newsletter Policy to highlight business retention initiatives (carried)
• Recommended Council adopt High Water Consumption Credit Policy (carried)
• Recommended Council set tax ratio for new multi-residential tax class at 1.1000 (carried)
• Approved agenda as presented (carried)
• Approved minutes of April 26, 2021 (carried)
• Went into closed session for labour relations discussion (carried)

Community Services Committee

The Blind River Community Services Committee is meeting to discuss routine administrative reports, including May updates from the Director of Facilities & Community Services, proposed cemetery improvements, and correspondence regarding By-Law #15-65 concerning ATV and UTV trail usage. The agenda also includes standard items like adoption of previous minutes and declarations of conflict of interest.

• Discussion of By-Law #15-65 regarding ATV and UTV use, with attached trail usage report
• Cemetery improvements report from Director of Facilities & Community Services
• May 2021 update report on community services
• Adoption of minutes from April 28, 2021 meeting

The Community Services Committee reviewed reports and correspondence, and made one substantive recommendation: to accept Option D for cemetery improvements and allocate $31,109 plus HST from the Cemetery Reserve Fund (or Future Projects if needed) to begin work at Hillside Cemetery in 2021. The motion was carried. Other items were procedural or informational, including a discussion on ATV/UTV signage and website updates.

• Recommended Option D for cemetery improvements, allocating $31,109 plus HST from Cemetery Reserve Fund (carried)

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council is meeting to consider several administrative reports and by-laws, including an agreement with the Jays Care Foundation for a field project at Town Park and amendments to the 2021 municipal user fees. The council will also review minutes, correspondence, and reports on items like the Bea Jensen Memorial Gazebo and a proposed 988 crisis hotline.

• By-Law #21-27: Agreement with Jays Care Foundation for Town Park field project
• By-Law #21-28: Amendment to By-Law 20-49 for 2021 Municipal User Fees, including signage permit fees
• Report on Final 2020 Reserve Transfers
• Correspondence re: Support for 988 crisis and suicide prevention hotline
• Report on Bea Jensen Memorial Gazebo

Council accepted the Jays Care Foundation Field of Dreams report and authorized signing By-Law 21-27 for an agreement to update Town Park's Ball Diamond. They also approved volunteers to build the Bea Jensen Memorial Gazebo at Sellers Beach, with the town as project manager. Final 2020 reserve transfers, including to the Library, were approved. Council supported the 988 crisis hotline initiative and proclaimed National Public Works Week.

• Approved agenda as presented (carried)
• Adopted minutes of May 3, 2021 meetings (carried)
• Accepted Jays Care Foundation Field of Dreams report (carried)
• Approved final 2020 reserve transfers including Library reserve fund (carried)
• Approved volunteers to build Bea Jensen Memorial Gazebo at Sellers Beach (carried)
• Supported 988 crisis and suicide prevention hotline initiative (carried)
• Proclaimed May 16-22, 2021 as National Public Works Week (carried)
• Authorized signing By-Law 21-27 for Jays Care Foundation agreement (carried)

Special Council Meeting

This is a procedural special council meeting. The only substantive item is a closed session under solicitor-client privilege, with a brief training item listed under public comments. No decisions or discussions are detailed in the open agenda.

• Closed session for advice subject to solicitor-client privilege
• Training item listed under public comments

The special council meeting on May 13, 2021, was largely procedural. Council approved the agenda, entered a closed session to discuss training matters, and later resumed open session to adjourn. No substantive decisions were made in open session.

• Approved agenda and closed meeting agenda (21-162, carried)
• Moved into closed session for training matters (21-163, carried)
• Resumed open meeting at 5:55 p.m. (21-164, carried)
• Adjourned special meeting at 5:55 p.m. (carried)

Infrastructure Services Committee

The Blind River Infrastructure Services Committee is meeting to review administrative reports, including an update on the Tulloch Engineering project summary list and the Director of Public Services' report covering April 8 to May 5, 2021. The agenda also includes adoption of previous minutes and routine procedural items. No public presentations or correspondence are listed.

• Review of Tulloch Engineering Project Summary List Update (report 19-1131, dated 04.15.2021)
• Public Services report for April 8 – May 5, 2021
• Stage 1 warranty review and maintenance guarantee sum holdback release (2018-01, dated October 26, 2020)
• Adoption of April 14, 2021 committee minutes

The Infrastructure Services Committee approved the agenda and previous minutes, and discussed reports from the CAO/Clerk and Director of Public Services. No formal decisions were made; the main discussion concerned two tenders (Marina Upgrades and Sellers Beach Washroom upgrades) that each received only one bid and exceeded budget, with the town exploring cost breakdowns or splitting the projects. Tree removal at Hillside Cemetery was noted as pending quotes.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Accepted minutes of April 14, 2021 meeting

BRDC

The Blind River Development Corporation is meeting to review staff reports, including a response from Algoma District Social Services on a housing request, an update on a grant submission related to TIC, and a community engagement opportunity. The agenda also includes routine items like adoption of previous minutes and correspondence.

• Response from Algoma District Social Services on Housing Request
• Grant Submission Update RE: TIC
• Community Engagement Opportunity
• Adoption of previous minutes (April 20, 2021)

The Blind River Development Corporation Board approved a special edition sponsorship initiative for seating, priced at $175 per unit, to promote community engagement during the pandemic. The board also approved the agenda and previous minutes, and discussed housing advocacy and a grant submission update.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved minutes of previous meeting as presented
• Approved special edition sponsorship initiative for seating at $175 per unit

Protective Services Committee

The Blind River Protective Services Committee is meeting to review administrative reports and consider several by-laws, including those on vacant buildings, speed limits, and clean yards. The committee will also discuss a security video surveillance policy and a firefighter recruitment package. The agenda includes routine items like adopting previous minutes and declarations of conflict of interest.

• Vacant Buildings Bylaw
• Rate of Speed By-law (maps for Leisure Bay, Bass Lake, Carlas Lane)
• Clean Yards By-law
• Security Video Surveillance Policy
• Firefighter Recruitment Package

The Protective Services Committee reviewed reports and recommended that Council approve the Security Video Surveillance Policy, the By-law to Regulate Vacant Buildings, and the Rate of Speed By-law. The Clean Yards By-law was discussed but no action was taken. The meeting was procedural with no final decisions, as all items are recommendations to Council.

• Recommended Council approve Security Video Surveillance Policy (carried)
• Recommended Council approve By-law to Regulate Vacant Buildings (carried)
• Recommended Council approve Rate of Speed By-law (carried)
• Adopted minutes of April 13, 2021 meeting (carried)

Public Meeting - Planning

This is a public meeting of the Town Council to consider a planning application for properties at 34 and 36 Huron Avenue. The agenda includes only procedural items and this single planning application, with no details provided in the agenda text.

• Planning application for 34 Huron Avenue and 36 Huron Avenue

The Blind River Town Council held a special public meeting on May 3, 2021, to consider a planning application for 34 and 36 Huron Avenue. No public comments were received during the consultation circulation. The meeting was procedural, with no substantive decisions made; it adjourned after the application was noted.

• Approved the agenda as presented (carried)
• Adjourned the public meeting at 6:31 p.m. (carried)

Council Meeting

The Blind River Town Council is meeting to consider administrative reports, including a severance application for 34 & 36 Huron Avenue, an update on the landfill expansion, and a proposed noise by-law. Council will also discuss correspondence on the Cameco refinery licence renewal and Laurentian University closure impacts, and hold a closed session for land acquisition or disposition matters.

• Severance application C2021-002 for 34 & 36 Huron Avenue
• Landfill expansion update with hydrogeological assessments
• By-Law #21-24 Noise By-Law
• 2020 year-end reserve transfers and Safe Restart funding allocation
• Closed session: offers to purchase land

Council granted provisional consent for a residential severance at 34 Huron Avenue, approved a $1,000 one-time water bill credit, and adopted several policies and funding allocations. They also authorized support for Cameco's licence renewal and urged reconsideration of Laurentian University program cuts.

• Granted provisional consent for severance at 34 Huron Avenue (carried)
• Approved $1,000 one-time high water consumption credit (carried)
• Adopted Mortuary Policy as amended (carried)
• Adopted iPad User Agreement as amended (carried)
• Approved 2020 year-end reserve transfers (carried)
• Approved 2020 Safe Restart Funding allocation and reserve creation (carried)
• Authorized Mayor to send intervention letter supporting Cameco licence renewal (carried)
• Passed Noise By-law #21-24 (carried)

Community Services Committee

The Blind River Community Services Committee is meeting to review administrative reports, including an April update package from the Director of Facilities and Community Services and a community beautification proposal from the CAO/Clerk. The agenda also includes routine items like adopting previous minutes and correspondence. No public presentations or specific decisions are listed.

• April Update Package from Director of Facilities and Community Services
• 2021 project guide for April meeting updates
• Community Beautification report from CAO/Clerk
• Adoption of March 31, 2021 minutes

The Blind River Community Services Committee adopted the March 31, 2021 minutes and reviewed the Director's April update. The committee directed staff to create a policy for additional maintenance requests, follow the Corporate Strategic Plan and Economic Development Strategy, surplus flower planters at Town Hall, arena, and TIC at $50 each, and investigate watering system costs for the 2022 budget. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted minutes of March 31, 2021 meeting (carried)
• Directed staff to create a policy for additional maintenance on strained areas (carried)
• Directed that planning follow Corporate Strategic Plan and Economic Development Strategy, with attention to Service Delivery Review recommendation (carried)
• Directed that additional flower planters at Town Hall, arena, and TIC be surplused by Recreation and Parks Committee at $50/container (carried)
• Directed Director of Facilities and Community Services to investigate costs for a proper watering system for 2022 budget (carried)

Special Council Meeting

This is a special council meeting with a largely procedural agenda. The main substantive item is a closed session to discuss personal matters about identifiable individuals, including municipal or local board employees, with two personnel items listed. The meeting also includes routine items to approve the agenda, declare conflicts of interest, report on the closed session, and adjourn.

• Closed session under personal matters about identifiable individuals, including municipal or local board employees
• Two personnel items discussed in closed session
• Report on closed session to follow
• Resolution to approve agenda
• Declarations of pecuniary interest

The special council meeting was called to order and the agenda approved. Council then moved into a closed session to discuss personal matters about an identifiable individual, specifically personnel, and resumed open meeting afterward. No substantive decisions were made in open session; the only actions were procedural approvals and adjournment.

• Approved agenda and closed meeting agenda (21-137)
• Moved into closed session for personnel matter (21-138)
• Resumed open meeting (21-139)
• Adjourned special meeting (21-140)

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The Blind River Corporate Services Committee is meeting to discuss administrative reports including the March 2021 building report, proposed mortuary and iPad policies, and several financial items such as 2020 year-end reserve transfers, Safe Restart funding allocation, and receivables reports for water and taxes. The agenda is largely routine administrative business with no major decisions listed.

• Building Department Report for March 2021
• Proposed Mortuary Policy
• Proposed iPad Policy
• 2020 Proposed Year End Reserve Transfers
• 2020 Safe Restart Funding Allocation

The Corporate Services Committee met and made several recommendations to Council, including adopting the amended Mortuary Policy and Company iPad User Agreement, approving the preliminary 2020 year-end reserve transfers, and allocating 2020 Safe Restart Funding with creation of a reserve. No decisions were finalized; all items are recommendations for Council approval.

• Recommended Council adopt Mortuary Policy as amended (carried)
• Recommended Council adopt Company iPad User Agreement as amended (carried)
• Recommended Council approve preliminary 2020 year-end transfers to reserve (carried)
• Recommended Council approve 2020 Safe Restart Funding allocation and creation of reserve (carried)

BRDC

The Blind River Development Corporation is meeting to review its 2021 budget, discuss grant opportunities, and consider potential litigation in closed session. The agenda includes routine items like adopting previous minutes and staff reports.

• Review of 2021 Budget BRDC
• Discussion of grant opportunities
• Closed session on potential litigation

The Blind River Development Corporation board approved the 2021 budget as presented, which included cancelling the existing phone line at the Tourist Information Centre. The board also approved staff applications for capital project funding, prioritizing water and sewer, roads, facilities, and community services. The meeting included a closed session to discuss potential litigation.

• Approved 2021 budget as presented (carried)
• Approved staff applications for capital project funding with priorities: water/sewer, roads, facilities, community services (carried)
• Went into closed session to discuss litigation or potential litigation (carried)
• Resumed open meeting after closed session (carried)

Public Meeting - Planning

The Town Council is holding a public meeting to consider two planning applications: V21-003 for 26129 Highway 17 West and V21-004 for 103 Robb Road. The agenda includes a technical report for the Robb Road application. No decisions are listed; the meeting is for discussion and public input.

• Planning application V21-003 for 26129 Highway 17 West
• Planning application V21-004 for 103 Robb Road
• Technical report attached for 103 Robb Road application

The council held a public meeting to consider two planning applications: V21-003 for 26129 Highway 17 West and V21-004 for 103 Robb Road. No written comments were received, and one resident called about the proposed garage height for the first application. The public has two more weeks to comment on both applications. No decisions were made at this meeting.

• Approved the agenda as presented (carried)
• Adjourned the public meeting at 6:38 p.m. (carried)

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council is holding its regular meeting on April 19, 2021, to consider several administrative reports, including severance applications for 48 River Drive and 26129 Hwy. 17, a variance for 103 Robb Road, and a site plan agreement for 451G Leisure Bay Road. The council will also receive updates on alternative voting methods, a cemetery niche expansion, and a proposal from the Ontario Provincial Police regarding new detachment boards. The meeting includes a closed session for personnel, land disposition, and legal advice.

• Severance application C21-001 for 48 River Drive
• Variance application V21-003 for 26129 Hwy. 17
• Variance application V21-004 for 103 Robb Road
• By-Law #21-22: Site Plan Agreement for 451G Leisure Bay Road (Christilaw)
• Update on alternative voting methods and OPP detachment board proposal

Council approved a provisional consent for a lot severance at 48 River Drive, creating a new 6.25-acre lot. It also granted zoning relief for properties at 26129 Hwy. 17 and 103 Robb Road, and adopted a five-year niche expansion at Hillside Cemetery. The Police Services Board recommended creating three separate OPP detachment boards for the region. Council also authorized staff to explore shared Chief Building Official services with Elliot Lake and to retain legal services from Aird Berlis on an as-needed basis.

• Granted provisional consent for lot severance at 48 River Drive (carried)
• Granted zoning relief to increase lot coverage to 5% at 26129 Hwy. 17 (carried)
• Granted zoning relief to reduce minimum gross floor area to 84 sq m at 103 Robb Road (carried)
• Adopted five-year niche expansion at Hillside Cemetery (carried)
• Recommended three separate OPP detachment boards for the region (carried)
• Authorized signing of Site Plan Agreement for 451G Leisure Bay Road (carried)
• Authorized staff to investigate shared Chief Building Official services with Elliot Lake (carried)
• Authorized CAO to obtain legal services from Aird Berlis on as-needed basis (carried)

Infrastructure Services Committee

The Infrastructure Services Committee is meeting to review administrative reports on water and sewer development capacity, cemetery tree removal and niche expansion, a proposed culvert installation policy, and a routine public services report. The agenda is largely administrative, with no public hearings or major contracts listed.

• Water mapping for new development, including a water and sewer rates study (RFP-2021-001)
• Cemetery tree removal proposal
• Draft driveway culvert policy, referencing Bylaw 1234-1979
• Hillside Cemetery niche expansion multi-year proposal
• Public Services report for March 4 – April 3, 2021

The Infrastructure Services Committee approved the agenda and previous minutes, then reviewed several administrative reports. The only formal decision was a recommendation to Council to adopt a five-year niche expansion at Hillside Cemetery, which was carried. Other items, including water mapping, tree removal, and a culvert policy, were discussed but not voted on.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Accepted minutes of March 10, 2021 meeting
• Recommended Council adopt five-year niche expansion at Hillside Cemetery (carried)

Protective Services Committee

The Blind River Protective Services Committee is meeting to review administrative reports, discuss a noise by-law, and consider recommending adoption of a Vacant Houses By-law. The agenda also includes correspondence about Ontario Fire College training and the Northshore Forest annual work schedule.

• Review of Noise By-Law and its application form
• Recommendation to Council to adopt the Vacant Houses By-law
• Director of Protective Services March report and tracking sheet
• Correspondence on Ontario Fire College Training Modernization
• Annual Work Schedule for Northshore Forest

The Protective Services Committee reviewed and discussed the Noise By-Law and recommended amendments to definitions and times before presenting it to Council for approval. The Vacant Houses By-Law was also discussed, with the committee recommending changes and requesting a revised version before it goes to Council. No final decisions were made; both items are recommendations for Council.

• Recommended amended Noise By-Law to Council
• Recommended changes to Vacant Houses By-Law, pending revised version

Police Services Board

The Blind River Police Services Board is meeting to review routine administrative items, including adoption of previous minutes and OPP monthly reports for January and February 2021. The board will also discuss correspondence from the Ontario Solicitor General regarding new OPP detachment boards, which may affect future governance. No decisions are listed on the agenda; items are for discussion or information.

• Adoption of minutes from February 9, 2021 meeting
• OPP monthly report for January 2021
• OPP monthly report for February 2021
• Correspondence from Office of the Solicitor General re: new OPP detachment boards (March 17, 2021)

The Blind River Police Services Board approved the agenda, adopted the February 9, 2021 minutes, and accepted the OPP monthly reports for January and February 2021. The board also passed a motion recommending the creation of three separate OPP detachment boards for the region, with specific groupings and Elliot Lake leading the proposal process. No other substantive decisions were made; new business included a discussion about moving speed signs and COVID enforcement.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Adopted minutes of February 9, 2021 meeting
• Accepted OPP monthly reports for January and February 2021
• Recommended three separate OPP detachment boards: Tarbutt to Thessalon, Huron Shores to Spanish, and City of Elliot Lake
• Recommended Elliot Lake lead the proposal process for East Algoma Detachment catchment area

Special Council Meeting

This is a special council meeting with a single substantive item: an administrative report from Tulloch Engineering presenting building condition assessments for 20 town-owned buildings. Council will receive the reports and may discuss the findings, but no decisions or votes on repairs or funding are listed on the agenda. The rest of the agenda is procedural (call to order, agenda approval, declarations of interest, adjournment).

• Building condition reports for 20 facilities, including Arena, Fire Hall, Town Hall, Library, Marina, and Water Treatment Plant
• Reports prepared by Tulloch Engineering (project 19-1771)
• No dollar amounts or repair recommendations listed in agenda text

Council received the Building Condition Assessment reports from Tulloch Engineering and prioritized five facilities for attention. It authorized engaging a consultant for options on a new or renovated Town Hall, approved demolition of the Courthouse and Old Public Works Building with funds from the Facilities Reserve, and authorized a $250,000 transfer for Tourist Information Centre upgrades. All motions were carried.

• Received Building Condition Assessment reports and prioritized Town Hall, Public Works, Arena, Marina, Tourist Information Centre (carried)
• Authorized consultant engagement for new or renovated Town Hall options (carried)
• Approved demolition of Courthouse and Old Public Works Building, funded from Facilities Reserve (carried)
• Authorized $250,000 transfer from Facilities Reserve for Tourist Information Centre upgrades (carried)

Council Meeting

The Blind River Town Council is holding its regular meeting on April 6, 2021, with a full agenda of administrative reports, by-laws, and policy updates. Key items include a delegation request for a new water source, two variance applications, a Lake Matinenda campground agreement, and several policy amendments. The council will also consider a by-law for the RIDE program and a confirming by-law.

• New Water Source Delegation Request
• V21-001 26 Longview Ave variance
• V21-002 451G Leisure Bay Road variance
• By-Law #21-20 Lake Matinenda Campground Agreement
• By-Law #21-19 Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere (RIDE) Allocation 2020/2022

Blind River Council approved several items including zoning relief for two properties, a $15,797.40 software purchase, and the return of baseball and a men's league under COVID-19 protocols. They also authorized a survey on reducing council size, adopted multiple policies, and passed by-laws for R.I.D.E. funding and a campground agreement. A motion to switch to unilingual property tax bills for eBilling was defeated.

• Approved agenda and closed meeting agenda (carried)
• Adopted minutes of March 15, 2021 meeting (carried)
• Delayed new water source delegation pending further investigation (carried)
• Granted zoning relief at 26 Longview Ave for reduced setbacks (carried)
• Granted zoning relief at 451G Leisure Bay Road for expanded dwelling (carried)
• Authorized purchase of AbleDocs software for $15,797.40 (carried)
• Approved return of baseball and men's league with COVID-19 measures (carried)
• Authorized survey on reducing council size for 2022 election (carried)

Community Services Committee

The Community Services Committee is meeting to receive administrative reports from the Director of Facilities & Community Services. Discussions include March 2021 updates and a report on bee-friendly opportunities for 2021.

• March 2021 Community Services updates
• 2021 project guide
• Bee-Friendly Opportunities 2021 report

The Community Services Committee met on March 31, 2021, and adopted the minutes from the February 24, 2021 meeting. The committee accepted the Bee-Friendly Opportunities 2021 report as its 2021 project list. The meeting adjourned at 4:21 p.m.

• Adopted the minutes of the February 24, 2021 meeting as presented.
• Accepted the Bee-Friendly Opportunities 2021 report as the committee's 2021 project list.
• Adjourned the meeting at 4:21 p.m.

Communications Committee

The Communications Committee will meet to review the agenda and adopt previous minutes. The meeting includes a closed session regarding personal matters about an identifiable individual.

• Adoption of February 22, 2021, meeting minutes
• Closed session regarding personal matters of an identifiable individual

The committee adopted the minutes from its February 22, 2021 meeting and held a brief closed session to discuss personal matters about an identifiable individual, as permitted under the Municipal Act. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted February 22, 2021 meeting minutes (carried)
• Entered closed session at 11:53 a.m. to discuss personal matters about an identifiable individual (carried)
• Returned to open session at 11:58 a.m. (carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 11:58 a.m. (carried)

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The Corporate Services Committee is meeting to review and potentially adopt several administrative policies, including a weekly newsletter policy, surplus equipment disposal amendment, cell phone policy amendment, and a draft capital project management policy. They will also receive updates on vacant lot sales, electronic funds transfer payments, iCity online services, property tax eBilling, long-term debt, and a proposed agreement regarding Lake Matinenda.

• Vacant Lot Sales Update and list of municipal properties sold in March 2021
• Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) payments policy draft
• iCity Online Update with Paymentus pricing proposal and master services agreement
• Property Tax eBilling Update with sample tax bills
• Lake Matinenda Agreement (Draft Spratt Agreement) with Schedule A

The Blind River Corporate Services Committee recommended Council adopt several policies, including a weekly newsletter policy, surplus equipment and cell phone policy amendments, an out-of-office notification policy, and an electronic funds transfer policy. It also recommended entering an agreement with Paymentus for online property tax and utility payments, switching to unilingual property tax bills to enable eBilling, and authorizing the Mayor and CAO/Clerk to sign the Lake Matinenda Campground Agreement. A report on vacant lot sales and a capital project management policy draft were deferred.

• Recommended Council adopt Blind River Weekly Newsletter Policy (carried)
• Recommended Council adopt Surplus Equipment Policy amendment (carried)
• Recommended Council adopt Out of Office Notification Policy (carried)
• Recommended Council adopt Corporate Cell Phone Policy amendment (carried)
• Recommended Council adopt Electronic Funds Transfer Policy (carried)
• Recommended Council enter agreement with Paymentus for online payment platform (carried)
• Recommended Council switch to unilingual property tax bills for eBilling (carried)
• Recommended Council authorize signing Lake Matinenda Campground Agreement (carried)

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council is holding its regular meeting on March 15, 2021. The agenda includes administrative reports on a community needs study for municipal lands, a modernization funding application, building condition assessments for multiple town facilities, and a proposed amendment to the 2021 municipal user fees by-law. Council will also consider a zoning by-law amendment for 14 Duborne Drive and several other items, including correspondence and a closed session for personnel and land matters.

• Community Needs Study and Highest and Best Use of Municipal Lands Study
• Building Condition Assessment reports for 20+ town buildings
• Amend By-Law 20-49 2021 Municipal User Fees (includes Huron Pines 2021 Rate Schedule)
• By-Law #21-16: Zoning amendment to reduce rear yard setback and increase max lot coverage at 14 Duborne Drive
• By-Law #21-17: 2021 User Fee By-Law Amendment

Council approved the construction of the Bea Jensen Memorial Gazebo at Sellers Beach, as fundraised by the Blind River Rotary Club, and authorized the submission of qualified contractors as volunteers for the project. Council also approved the 2021 user fees for Huron Pines Golf and Country Club, authorized a $14,568 transfer from the Taxation Stabilization Reserve to cover the ADSAB levy increase, and supported several external resolutions including paid sick leave and municipal insurance reform.

• Approved the agenda and closed meeting agenda as presented.
• Adopted the minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of March 1, 2021.
• Approved the 2021 Huron Pines Golf and Country Club fees and amended By-law 20-49 accordingly.
• Authorized transfer of $14,568.00 from the Taxation Stabilization Reserve to cover the 2021 ADSAB levy increase.
• Approved construction of the Bea Jensen Memorial Gazebo at Sellers Beach and authorized volunteer contractors.
• Authorized staff to apply for grants following a standard intake flow, leveraging existing budget dollars.
• Authorized a detailed report on court services and lobbying the Ministry of the Attorney General to continue satellite court services in Blind River.
• Approved a letter of support for the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail cycling project and declared the Marine Park tower surplus.

Infrastructure Services Committee

The Blind River Infrastructure Services Committee is meeting to review routine administrative items, including adoption of previous minutes and two staff reports. The main substantive items are the Director of Public Services' monthly report and a 2020 biennial bridge inspection report from Tulloch Engineering. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Public Services Report covering February 4 – March 3, 2021
• 2020 Biennial Bridge Inspections by Tulloch Engineering (OSIM report dated Dec 18, 2020)
• Adoption of minutes from February 10, 2021 meeting

The Infrastructure Services Committee meeting was largely procedural, with no substantive decisions made. The committee approved the agenda and the minutes from the February 10, 2021 meeting, and reviewed two administrative reports on public services and bridge inspections.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Accepted minutes of February 10, 2021 meeting

Water and Wastewater Committee

The Blind River Water and Wastewater Committee is meeting to review its agenda, adopt previous minutes, and hear presentations from the PUC, Tulloch Engineering, and Algoma Public Health. The main administrative item is a Five Year Water Management Plan prepared by Shelby Environmental. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Five Year Water Management Plan - Shelby Environmental
• PUC Presentation
• Tulloch Engineering presentation
• Algoma Public Health presentation
• Adoption of Dec 09 2020 minutes

The Blind River Water and Wastewater Committee met on March 10, 2021, and approved the agenda and the minutes from the December 9, 2020 meeting. Presentations were given by PUC Services, Tulloch Engineering, and Algoma Public Health. The CAO noted that the Town must renew its Five Year Water Management Plan, as required for its water-taking permit, and that the previous plan had not been followed. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved the agenda as presented.
• Adopted the minutes of the December 9, 2020 meeting as presented.
• Heard a presentation from PUC Services on last quarter's activities.
• Heard a presentation from Tulloch Engineering on current projects.
• Heard a presentation from Algoma Public Health.
• Noted the requirement to renew the Five Year Water Management Plan.

Protective Services Committee

The Blind River Protective Services Committee is meeting to review routine administrative reports, including the Director's February report and the building report. They will also discuss the potential installation of cameras on school buses, based on attached guidelines. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Discussion of cameras on school buses, with attached guidelines for school bus stop arm camera programs
• Director of Protective Services February report and tracking sheet
• Building report for February 2021
• Correspondence on standby generator and solar panel ownership
• Adoption of minutes from February 9, 2021 meeting

The Blind River Protective Services Committee met and approved the agenda and previous minutes. They reviewed the Director of Protective Services' February report, the February building report, and a report on school bus cameras, deciding to revisit the camera issue in September. They also discussed correspondence on standby generators and solar panels, requesting public education and investigating signage for first responder hazards.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Accepted minutes of February 9, 2021 as presented
• Reviewed February report of Director of Protective Services
• Reviewed February building report
• Deferred school bus camera decision to September for comparative data
• Requested fire department public education on generator/solar panel hazards
• Investigated signage for first responder hazards

Community Improvement Plan Committee

The Blind River Community Improvement Plan Committee is meeting to review the 2021 CIP kickoff materials and the 2020-2021 CIP budget. They will also adopt the minutes from the January 14, 2021 meeting and handle routine procedural items.

• Review of 2021 CIP kickoff meeting materials
• Review of 2020-2021 CIP budget and tracking form
• Adoption of January 14, 2021 meeting minutes

The Community Improvement Plan Committee met and approved the minutes from January 14, 2021, as presented. The committee reviewed two administrative reports from the Director of Facilities and Community Services regarding the 2021 CIP kickoff and the 2020-2021 budget for the Community Improvement Plan, but took no formal action on them. The meeting adjourned at 9:28 a.m.

• Approved the minutes of January 14, 2021, as presented.
• Reviewed the report on the 2021 CIP kickoff (no action taken).
• Reviewed the report on the 2020-2021 budget for the Community Improvement Plan (no action taken).

BRDC

The Blind River Development Corporation is meeting to discuss the requirement for an Economic Development Officer and review the 2020-2021 TRACTION program. The agenda includes routine items like appointing a chair, adopting previous minutes, and receiving staff reports.

• Discussion on the requirement for an Economic Development Officer
• Review of 2020-2021 TRACTION program and related newsletters
• Tourism Ambassador job description attached
• Appointment of Chair and Vice Chair
• Adoption of previous minutes from November 9, 2020

The Blind River Development Corporation board appointed J. Posteraro as Chair and P. Summers as Vice Chair, and adopted the previous minutes. It passed a resolution requesting the Algoma District Services Administration Board to collaborate on creating affordable housing on under-utilized properties in Blind River and to provide its housing strategy. The board also approved adding a sub-lease permission clause to the GreenTech Building lease with NSPG, subject to board approval.

• Appointed J. Posteraro as Chair and P. Summers as Vice Chair (carried)
• Adopted minutes of November 9, 2020 (carried)
• Approved resolution to liaise with Algoma District Services Administration Board on affordable housing and youth support services (carried)
• Approved sub-lease permission clause in GreenTech Building lease with NSPG, subject to BRDC board approval (carried)

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council's regular meeting covers administrative reports on the Community Safety & Well-Being Plan, 2021 project status, and Tulloch Engineering updates. Council will consider two by-laws: #21-13 (Integrity Commissioner Agreement) and #21-14 (Operation, Maintenance and Management of Water Treatment and Wastewater Treatment Agreement). The agenda also includes a service delivery review update, committee reports, and a closed session for legal advice.

• By-Law #21-14: water and wastewater treatment operation, maintenance and management agreement
• By-Law #21-13: Integrity Commissioner Agreement
• Community Safety & Well-Being Plan working group update
• 2021 project status update from management and Tulloch Engineering
• Service Delivery Review status update with action tracking sheets

Council approved the use of internet or on-demand ballot as the alternative voting method for the 2022 municipal election, with a by-law to be brought forward. Several policies were adopted, including an Anti-Spam Communications Policy and a Creating Accessible Documents Policy. Council also authorized agreements for Integrity Commissioner services and water/wastewater operations, and supported a request to amend the Municipal Elections Act.

• Approved internet/on-demand ballot for 2022 municipal election (carried)
• Adopted Anti-Spam Communications Policy (carried)
• Adopted Creating Accessible Documents Policy (carried)
• Adopted amended Communications Committee Terms of Reference (carried)
• Supported Township of The Archipelago request to amend Municipal Elections Act (carried)
• Authorized signing of By-law #21-13 for Integrity Commissioner services (carried)
• Authorized signing of By-law #21-14 for water/wastewater operations agreement with PUC Services Inc. (carried)
• Adopted minutes of February 16 meeting (carried)

Community Services Committee

The Blind River Community Services Committee is meeting to review administrative reports on 2021 community services projects, trail enhancements for cycling, a decommissioned tower at Marine Park, and a community quilt initiative. They will also consider correspondence from the Horticultural Society and adopt previous minutes. No votes are listed; items are for discussion and review.

• 2021 Community Services projects and project guide
• Trail enhancements including Great Lakes Waterfront Trail and cycling trail improvements
• Marine Park decommissioned tower
• Community Quilt Initiative
• Horticultural Society request

The Community Services Committee recommended that Council support a regional cycling project by accepting and signing a support letter for the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail. It also recommended declaring a tower at the Marine Park as surplus for sale, and proceeding with a grant application to replace downtown boardwalks, leveraging $19,231.12 in existing budget funds. A request from the Horticultural Society to support a tree-planting grant was defeated.

• Recommended Council accept and sign the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail support letter for a regional cycling project (carried).
• Recommended Council approve one tower at Blind River Marine Park as surplus, with no electrical components, sold as-is, and posted per surplus policy (carried).
• Recommended Council support in principle the Horticultural Society's tree-planting grant application (defeated).
• Recommended Council proceed with an application to Canada's Healthy Communities Initiative grant to replace downtown boardwalks, leveraging $19,231.12 (carried).

Communications Committee

The Blind River Communications Committee is meeting to handle routine organizational business: appointing a chair and co-chair, reviewing the agenda, adopting previous minutes, and discussing business arising from them. The main substantive items are reviews of the committee's Terms of Reference and the Expected Conduct Policy. The meeting also includes a closed session for personal matters about identifiable individuals, including municipal or local board employees and personnel.

• Appoint Chair and Co-chair
• Review 21-10 Communications Committee Terms of Reference - Schedule A
• Review 21-09 Expected Conduct Policy - Schedule A
• Closed session on personal matters about identifiable individuals, including municipal or local board employees; personnel

The Communications Committee requested amendments to its Terms of Reference to replace 'correspondence' with 'communications' and add a definition of communication. The amended terms will be presented to Council for adoption. The committee also held a closed session to discuss personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees.

• Amended Terms of Reference to use 'communications' instead of 'correspondence' and add a definition (to be presented to Council)
• Held closed session under Section 239 of the Municipal Act for personal matters about an identifiable individual (carried)
• Resumed open meeting after closed session (carried)
• Adjourned at 12:00 p.m. (carried)

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The Blind River Corporate Services Committee is meeting to discuss administrative reports on water user fees, vacant lot sales, anti-spam and accessible documents policies, alternate voting methods for the 2022 municipal election, and electronic funds transfer payments. The agenda is largely routine administrative business, with no public presentations or correspondence listed.

• Water User Fees By-Law review
• Vacant Lot Sales Update with sold properties list
• Anti-Spam Policy adoption
• Alternate Voting Methods for 2022 Municipal Election
• Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) Payments policy

The Corporate Services Committee recommended Council adopt internet or on-demand ballot voting for the 2022 municipal election, and recommended adoption of anti-spam and accessible documents policies. It also directed staff to evaluate remaining vacant lot sales and bring recommendations to the March meeting. The EFT payments policy was deferred to March, and a report on court services was recommended to Council.

• Recommended Council adopt internet/on-demand ballot voting for 2022 election (carried)
• Recommended Council adopt Anti-Spam Communications Policy (carried)
• Recommended Council adopt Creating Accessible Documents Policy (carried)
• Directed staff to evaluate remaining vacant lot sales and report back in March (carried)
• Recommended Council lobby for continued satellite court services in Blind River (carried)
• Deferred EFT payments policy to March meeting
• Requested draft policy for weekly newsletter, including name change, for March meeting

Council Meeting

The Blind River Town Council is holding its regular meeting on February 16, 2021. The agenda includes a public presentation from Cameco Corporation on its annual update, administrative reports on accessibility webpage requirements, investments, cemetery signage timeline, and arena reopening after lockdown. Council will also consider appointing a Chief Building Official and other correspondence and by-laws.

• Cameco Corporation annual update to the Town of Blind River
• Report on accessibility webpage requirements
• Treasurer's report on investments
• Arena reopening post-lockdown report
• By-Law #21-11 to appoint a Chief Building Official

Council authorized the Blind River Community Centre to remain open until March 31, 2021, subject to COVID-19 health unit status, and accepted an offer to purchase 161 Youngfox at full asking price with a 5-year extension for home completion. Several administrative items were approved, including interest transfers to reserve funds, committee appointments, and a by-law appointing a Chief Building Official.

• Approved agenda and closed meeting agenda (carried)
• Adopted minutes of Feb 1 and Feb 9, 2021 meetings (carried)
• Approved interest transfers to reserve funds totaling $30,629.18 (carried)
• Authorized Community Centre to remain open until March 31, 2021, with closure if Red/Grey status (carried)
• Accepted resignation of Councillor B. Dunbar from multiple committees (carried)
• Appointed Councillors to fill committee vacancies (carried)
• Approved sending letter on infrastructure funding to provincial and federal officials (carried)
• Approved By-law #21-11 appointing a Chief Building Official (carried)

Infrastructure Services Committee

The Blind River Infrastructure Services Committee is meeting to review the agenda, adopt previous minutes, and discuss administrative reports. Key items include a report on low water pressure at Mary Place and a general update from the Director of Public Services covering January 7 to February 3, 2021. No decisions are listed; the meeting is for discussion and review.

• Mary Place Low Water Pressure Reports
• Public Services Report Jan 7 2021 - Feb 3 2021
• Adoption of Jan 13, 2021 minutes
• Declaration of conflict of interest
• Public presentations

The Infrastructure Services Committee approved the agenda and previous minutes, and reviewed reports on Mary Place low water pressure and public services. No final decisions were made; the committee requested additional information on the water pressure issue before taking it to Council.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Accepted minutes of January 13, 2021 meeting
• Requested additional information on Mary Place low water pressure before Council consideration

Special Council Meeting

This special council meeting is considering two by-laws: one to adopt an Expected Conduct Policy and another to establish a Communications Committee with terms of reference. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with no other substantive items listed.

• By-Law #21-09 to adopt an Expected Conduct Policy
• By-Law #21-10 to establish a Communications Committee
• Communications Committee Terms of Reference

Council passed By-law #21-09 adopting an Expected Conduct Policy and By-law #21-10 establishing a Communications Committee. It also appointed Councillors Summers and Wells and Mayor Hagman to the committee, with CAO/Clerk support. All motions carried unanimously.

• Adopted By-law #21-09 Expected Conduct Policy (carried)
• Established By-law #21-10 Communications Committee (carried)
• Appointed Councillors Summers, Wells, and Mayor Hagman to Communications Committee (carried)

Police Services Board

This agenda for the Blind River Police Services Board meeting on February 9, 2021, contains only procedural boilerplate and no substantive items. The document lists no decisions, discussions, or specific agenda topics.

Protective Services Committee

The Blind River Protective Services Committee is meeting to handle routine procedural items including adopting the previous meeting's minutes and reviewing the Director of Protective Services' January report and the January building report. No major decisions or public hearings are listed on the agenda.

• Adoption of minutes from January 12, 2021 meeting
• Director of Protective Services January report
• Building report for January 2021

The Protective Services Committee approved the agenda and accepted the minutes from the January 12, 2021 meeting. They reviewed the Director of Protective Services' January report and the January building report. No formal decisions were made; the only new business was a discussion about potential school bus cameras, with staff preparing a report for Council.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Accepted minutes of January 12, 2021 meeting

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council is meeting to review administrative reports, consider three by-laws (including zoning amendments and a gas tax agreement), and discuss correspondence on topics like broadband funding and a code of conduct complaint. The agenda also includes routine items like minutes adoption and a closed session for personnel matters.

• By-Law #21-05: Temporary use by-law for storage containers at 15 Lachore St (JRs Pizza)
• By-Law #21-06: Zoning amendment to reduce front/rear yard setbacks at 34 Labbe St (RJ's Auto)
• By-Law #21-07: Gas Tax Agreement for public transportation funding
• Report on 2021 engineering projects (Tulloch Eng project summary)
• Curling Club request for charitable tax rebate

Council denied the Blind River Curling Club's request to change the charitable rebate rate, keeping it at 50% per town policy. They also approved several administrative items, including reserve transfers, an ice allocation policy, and a reserve policy amendment. Council supported a resolution for municipal infrastructure funding and provided a letter of support for Leepfrog Technologies' broadband funding application. Three zoning by-law amendments were authorized, including one for a 3,040 square foot addition at 34 Labbe Street.

• Denied Blind River Curling Club request, kept charitable rebate at 50% (carried)
• Approved 2021 budgeted transfers to reserves (carried)
• Adopted Ice Allocation Policy (carried)
• Amended Reserve Policy to transfer unspent prior year funds to Future Projects Reserve (carried)
• Supported Town of Bracebridge resolution for infrastructure funding (carried)
• Provided updated letter of support to Leepfrog Technologies for broadband funding (carried)
• Authorized By-Law #21-05 for temporary storage containers in CH zone (carried)
• Authorized By-Law #21-06 for reduced setbacks at 34 Labbe Street (carried)

Special Council Meeting

This special council meeting focuses on the 2021 revised draft budget, including expense exclusions and library board budget resolutions. Council will also consider a by-law for a FedNor contribution agreement related to the Marine Park Development Project, and receive a budget committee recommendation.

• 2021 Revised Draft Budget with department-by-department summaries
• Budget Expense Exclusions report from Treasurer
• Blind River Library Board 2021 budget resolutions and 2020 transfer of funds
• By-Law #21-04: FedNor Contribution Agreement for Marine Park Waterfront Development
• Budget Committee Recommendation presentation

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The Blind River Corporate Services Committee is meeting to review administrative reports on municipal land sales, an ice allocation policy, preliminary 2020 revenue and expense figures, a reserve policy, and a weekly newsletter assignment. The agenda is largely routine, with no public presentations or correspondence listed.

• Municipal land sales report
• Ice allocation policy review
• Preliminary Dec 31 2020 revenue and expense summary
• Reserve policy with Schedule A
• Weekly newsletter assignment for Jan 2021

Special Council Meeting

This is a special council meeting with a closed session covering three items: a proposed land acquisition or disposition, personal matters about an identifiable individual, and litigation or potential litigation. The council will also approve the agenda, receive a report on the closed session, and adjourn. No public decisions are listed on the open agenda.

• Closed session item 4.1: proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land (Offer to Purchase)
• Closed session item 4.2: personal matters about an identifiable individual (personnel)
• Closed session item 4.3: litigation or potential litigation, including administrative tribunals (legal advice)

The council met in a special session and unanimously approved the agenda. It then moved into a closed session to discuss a proposed land acquisition or disposition, personnel matters, and potential litigation, with Councillor Posteraro declaring a conflict of interest on the land item. After resuming open session, the mayor reported on the closed discussions, and the meeting adjourned. No substantive decisions were made in open session.

• Approved agenda as presented (carried)
• Moved into closed session for land, personnel, and legal matters (carried)
• Resumed open session at 5:08 p.m. (carried)
• Adjourned at 5:08 p.m. (carried)

Community Improvement Plan Committee

The Blind River Community Improvement Plan Committee is meeting to handle routine procedural items, including adopting previous minutes and reviewing the agenda. The main substantive item is a Community Improvement Plan application for 18 Woodward Avenue, which the committee will consider. No other business or public presentations are listed on the agenda.

• Review of Community Improvement Plan application for 18 Woodward Avenue
• Adoption of previous minutes from October 22, 2020 meeting
• Declaration of conflict of interest
• Public presentations (none listed)
• Addendum and adjournment

Infrastructure Services Committee

The Blind River Infrastructure Services Committee is meeting to review administrative reports from the Director of Public Services covering recent activity, including snow plowing and vehicle inspection safe work procedures. The agenda is largely routine, with no public presentations or major decisions listed.

• Public Services Report Nov 18 – Dec 4 2020
• Public Services Activity Report Dec 2020 – Jan 6 2021
• JSA-04-001 Snow Plowing safe work procedure
• EQP-004 Vehicle Inspections Safe Work Procedures
• Adoption of previous minutes from Nov 18 2020 meeting

The Infrastructure Services Committee meeting was largely procedural. It approved the agenda and the minutes from the November 18, 2020 meeting. Two public services reports were reviewed and discussed, but no formal decisions were made. A discussion on plowing Boom Camp Road was closed because an existing resolution prohibits plowing.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Accepted minutes of November 18, 2020 meeting
• Reviewed Public Services Report Nov 18-Dec 4 2020 (no action)
• Reviewed Public Services Activity Report Dec 2020-Jan 6 2021 (no action)
• Confirmed no plowing of Boom Camp Road due to existing resolution

Budget Committee

The Blind River Budget Committee is meeting to review the 2021 revised draft budget, including sewer and water system maintenance costs. The agenda also includes correspondence from HNCEA regarding H&M COFI and a ROCK Networks broadband proposal. No decisions are listed; the meeting is for discussion and review.

• 2021 Revised Draft Budget review
• Sewer System Maintenance (account 4100)
• STP (account 4101)
• Water Supply Admin (5020), Power Pump (5021), Trans Distrib (5022)
• HNCEA correspondence on H&M COFI and ROCK Networks broadband proposal

The Blind River Budget Committee recommended that Council adopt the 2021 Capital and Operating Budgets as presented. It also recommended reallocating $15,000 from the Fuel Cardlock system in the 2020 Budget to the Administrative User Fee Study in 2021. The meeting was procedural, with no other substantive decisions.

• Recommended adoption of 2021 Capital and Operating Budgets (carried)
• Recommended reallocating $15,000 from Fuel Cardlock to Administrative User Fee Study (carried)

Protective Services Committee

The Blind River Protective Services Committee is meeting to review the December reports from the Director of Protective Services and the Chief Building Official, and to consider correspondence from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing about enforcement of orders under the Reopening Ontario Act, 2020. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific decisions or dollar amounts listed.

• December report from Director of Protective Services
• Chief Building Official report for December
• Correspondence from Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (Dec 24, 2020) re: enforcement under Reopening Ontario Act, 2020

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council's regular meeting includes routine procedural items (call to order, minutes, reports) and correspondence from provincial and federal bodies. The main business is introducing By-Law #21-01 for temporary borrowing in 2021 and By-Law #21-02 setting interim tax rates for 2021. The meeting also includes a closed session for personnel and legal advice matters.

• By-Law #21-01: Temporary Borrowing 2021
• By-Law #21-02: Interim Tax Rates 2021
• Correspondence: Municipal Asset Management Program grant approval (FCM)
• Correspondence: 2021 COVID-related operating pressures funding (MMAH)
• Closed session: personnel and legal advice items

Council approved the agenda, previous minutes, and several routine items. It authorized temporary borrowing for 2021 and set interim tax rates for the year. Council also supported a $600 sponsorship for the North Shore Cruisers charity lottery. The meeting included a closed session for personnel and legal matters, with no other substantive decisions.

• Approved agenda and addendum (carried)
• Adopted minutes of Dec 14, 2020 meeting (carried)
• Approved $600 sponsorship for North Shore Cruisers Catch the Ace Lottery (carried)
• Authorized signing of By-law #21-01 for temporary borrowing 2021 (carried)
• Authorized signing of By-law #21-02 for interim tax rates 2021 (carried)
• Moved into closed session for personnel and legal advice (carried)
• Resumed open session and adopted confirming by-law #21-03 (carried)