Blind River public meetings in 2022

Special Council Meeting

This is a special council meeting for Blind River, ON, but the agenda contains only procedural boilerplate and no listed agenda items, decisions, or discussions. The provided text is mostly system-generated interface labels and placeholders, with no actual business items to report.

Council met in a special session and held a closed meeting to discuss solicitor-client privileged legal advice. Following the closed session, Council authorized the CAO/Clerk to proceed with an amending loan agreement with NSPG.

• Authorized CAO/Clerk to proceed with amending loan agreement with NSPG (Carried)
• Approved agenda as presented (Carried)
• Entered closed session for solicitor-client privileged matters (Carried)
• Authorized Mayor and CAO/Clerk to sign By-law #22-68 to adopt minutes (Carried)

Special Council Meeting

The provided document contains only administrative metadata and software interface text. There are no specific council actions, proposals, or discussion topics listed in the record.

Council met for a special session and entered a closed meeting to address matters pertaining to education and training. No substantive public decisions were recorded.

• Approved the agenda (Carried)
• Entered closed session at 4:34 p.m. for education and training purposes (Carried)
• Resumed open meeting at 6:37 p.m. (Carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:37 p.m. (Carried)

Public Meeting - Planning

This is a public meeting where the Town Council will hear and likely decide on six planning applications. These include requests to sever land at 24 and 28 Hawkins Street, grant easements at 154 and 156 Woodward Avenue, and minor variances at several properties. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with no other business listed.

• Consent to sever at 24 and 28 Hawkins Street (C2022-003)
• Consent for easement at 154 and 156 Woodward Avenue (E2022-001, E2022-002)
• Minor variance at 154 Woodward Avenue (V2022-010)
• Minor variance at 156 Woodward Avenue (V2022-011)
• Minor variance at 14A Marine Drive (V2022-014) and 101 Country Road (V2022-015)

Council reviewed several planning applications, including requests for 24 and 28 Hawkins Street, 154 and 156 Woodward Avenue, 14A Marine Drive, and 101 Country Road. No formal decisions to approve or deny the applications were recorded in the minutes.

• Approved the meeting agenda (Resolution 22-351)
• Adjourned the meeting at 6:17 p.m. (Resolution 22-352)

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council's regular meeting on December 19, 2022, includes administrative reports on minor variance and consent applications for several properties, committee and board appointments, and a Woodward Avenue reconstruction update. Council will also consider by-laws for temporary borrowing, the 2023 interim tax levy, and an agreement with Leepfrog Telecom. The agenda includes correspondence opposing Bill 23 and a closed session for legal and personnel matters.

• By-Law #22-63: Interim Tax Levy 2023
• By-Law #22-62: Temporary Borrowing 2023
• By-Law #22-64: Temporary Borrowing for Woodward Ave Project
• By-Law #22-65: Agreement with Leepfrog Telecom Ltd for communications tower
• Minor variance applications: 14A Marine Drive, 101 Country Road, 154 & 156 Woodward Avenue, 24 & 28 Hawkins Street

Council granted multiple minor variances for properties on Marine Drive, Country Road, and Woodward Avenue. The board appointed members to various municipal committees and boards, and approved several temporary borrowing by-laws. Council also formally opposed Bill 23, the More Homes Built Faster Act, 2022.

• Approved minor variance for 14A Marine Drive to increase lot coverage to 3% and gross floor area to 1483 sq. ft.
• Approved minor variance for 101 Country Road to decrease interior side yard setback to 10 ft.
• Granted provisional consent for easements between 154 and 156 Woodward Avenue
• Approved reallocation of $143,000 from pre-engineering, pedestrian crossover, and seniors' centre budgets to the Woodward Ave project
• Passed By-law #22-65 to agree with Leepfrog Telecom Ltd for wireless broadband equipment
• Passed By-law #22-66 to appoint Cunningham Swan Carty Little & Bonham LLP as Integrity Commissioner
• Approved temporary borrowing by-laws #22-62 and #22-64 (Woodward Ave Project) and interim tax levy by-law #22-63
• Opposed Bill 23, More Homes Built Faster Act, 2022

Special Council Meeting

This is a special council meeting for Blind River, ON, but the agenda contains only procedural boilerplate and no specific items for decision or discussion.

Council met in a special session primarily to enter a closed meeting for education and training purposes. No substantive policy or financial decisions were recorded.

• Approved the agenda (Carried)
• Entered closed session for education and training purposes (Carried)
• Resumed open meeting at 9:03 p.m. (Carried)

Special Council Meeting

The Town Council is meeting to review public presentations regarding candidates for a council vacancy. The agenda includes applications from Dan Middaugh and Nathan Mutch.

• Public presentation of Council Vacancy Candidate Dan Middaugh
• Public presentation of Council Vacancy Candidate Nathan Mutch
• Closed session regarding personal matters about an identifiable individual

Council heard presentations from two candidates for a council vacancy. Following a closed session regarding personnel matters, Council voted to appoint Daniel Middaugh to serve the remainder of the 2022-2026 term.

• Appointed Daniel Middaugh to serve the remainder of the 2022-2026 term of Council (Carried)
• Approved the meeting agenda (Carried)
• Authorized the Mayor and CAO/Clerk to sign By-law #22-61 to adopt the meeting minutes (Carried)

Inaugural Council Meeting

This is the inaugural meeting of Blind River Town Council, where the newly elected mayor and council will be sworn in and the chain of office transferred. The council will also consider administrative reports on filling a vacant council seat, a lame duck spending report, a project list update, a Canada Community-Building Fund compliance audit, and mandatory landfill drainage improvements. Several by-laws are up for adoption, including signing authorities and purchasing. The meeting includes a closed session for legal and land matters.

• Swearing in of mayor-elect and council-elect, and chain of office transfer
• Report on vacant council seat and appointment procedure
• Delegation of authority during lame duck period spending report
• Canada Community-Building Fund compliance audit
• By-Law #22-58 (Signing Authorities) and By-Law #22-59 (Purchasing By-Law)

The inaugural council meeting focused on administrative setup, including the appointment of signing authorities and a new purchasing by-law. Council also approved funding and a change order for landfill drainage improvements and scheduled a meeting to hear applicants for a vacant council seat.

• Directed CAO/Clerk to advertise for a vacant council seat and set a hearing for December 5, 2022
• Approved transfer of $22,353.80 from Landfill Reserve to Municipal Landfill Drainage Improvements project
• Authorized CAO/Clerk to sign Change Order No. 1 for Landfill Surface Water Management
• Passed By-law #22-58 appointing signing authorities
• Passed By-law #22-59 adopting a procurement policy for goods and services
• Accepted CAO/Clerk report on Lame Duck period purchases
• Adopted minutes from October 24, November 7 (Public), and November 7 (Regular) meetings

Public Meeting - Planning

This is a public meeting of the Town Council to consider two planning applications on Woodward Avenue. The council will hear a consent application for 154 and 156 Woodward Avenue and a temporary use by-law application for 314 Woodward Avenue. No decisions are listed on the agenda; the meeting is for discussion and public input.

• Application for Consent C2022-002 for 154 and 156 Woodward Avenue
• Application for Temporary Use By-law ZBL2022-003 for 314 Woodward Avenue
• Technical reports attached for both applications

Council reviewed two planning applications regarding properties on Woodward Avenue. The minutes do not record any formal votes or decisions on the specific applications presented.

• Approved the meeting agenda (CARRIED)
• Adjourned the meeting at 6:22 p.m. (CARRIED)

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council's regular meeting includes administrative reports on ongoing projects, a consent application for 154 and 156 Woodward Avenue, and a temporary use by-law for 314 Woodward Avenue. Council will also hear a funding announcement from Ontario's Minister of Seniors and Accessibility, discuss the Santa Claus Parade and Trans Canada Trail funding, and receive updates on service delivery. The meeting includes a closed session for land acquisition or disposition matters.

• Consent application C2022-002 for 154 and 156 Woodward Avenue
• By-Law #22-56: Temporary Use By-law for 314 Woodward Ave (ZBL2022-003)
• Funding announcement by Minister Cho, Minister of Seniors and Accessibility
• Santa Claus Parade 2022 discussion
• Trans Canada Trail funding request

Council approved the creation of a new residential lot at 156 Woodward Avenue and authorized a temporary use by-law for a second dwelling at 314 Woodward Avenue. The board also approved road closures for the 2022 Santa Claus Parade.

• Granted provisional consent to create a new R1-Residential Single Detached lot at 156 Woodward Avenue (Carried)
• Approved road closures on Lakeside Avenue and Hanes Street for the Santa Claus Parade on November 12, 2022 (Carried)
• Authorized By-law #22-56 to permit a temporary second residential dwelling for one year at 314 Woodward Avenue (Carried)
• Adopted minutes from October 17, 2022 (Carried)
• Approved the meeting agenda and closed meeting agenda (Carried)

Special Council Meeting

This is a special council meeting with a closed session for solicitor-client privileged advice, followed by a report and a confirming by-law. No substantive public decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Closed session under solicitor-client privilege
• Confirming By-law 22-55

Council entered a closed session to receive advice subject to solicitor-client privilege. No substantive policy decisions or budget approvals were recorded in the open session.

• Approved the agenda (Carried)
• Entered closed session at 1:03 p.m. for solicitor-client privileged matters (Carried)
• Resumed open session at 2:20 p.m. (Carried)
• Authorized Mayor and CAO/Clerk to sign By-law #22-55 to adopt the meeting minutes (Carried)

Public Meeting - Planning

This is a public meeting of the Town Council to consider two applications for minor variances. The council will hear technical reports on both applications and may vote on them. No other business is listed.

• Minor variance application V2022-008 for 12 Victoria Avenue
• Minor variance application V2022-009 for 202 Youngfox Road
• Technical reports presented for both applications

The meeting was procedural only: council approved the agenda, heard presentations on two variance applications (202 Victoria Avenue and 202 Youngfox Road), and adjourned. No votes on the applications were taken; the meeting was solely a public hearing.

• Approved agenda as presented (carried)
• Heard presentation on V2022-008 12 Victoria Avenue (no decision)
• Heard presentation on V2022-009 202 Youngfox Road (no decision; Councillor Hagman declared conflict and left room)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:36 p.m. (carried)

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council is holding its regular meeting on October 17, 2022. The agenda includes public presentations, administrative reports on two minor variance applications, a by-law for a NOHFC contribution agreement for an ice resurfacer, and correspondence. Most items are routine procedural matters, with the minor variances and the funding agreement being the substantive items.

• Minor variance application V2022-008 for 12 Victoria Avenue
• Minor variance application V2022-009 for 202 Youngfox Road
• By-Law #22-53: NOHFC Contribution Agreement for ice resurfacer
• Public presentation by William Elliot on ELNOS BR+E
• Correspondence from Solicitor General re: Community Safety & Well-being Plan

Council granted relief from zoning by-law limits for two properties: a deck and garage at 12 Victoria Avenue and accessory decks at 202 Youngfox Road. Council also authorized signing a contribution agreement with NOHFC to purchase a new ice resurfacer. All motions were carried.

• Approved minor variance for 12 Victoria Avenue to allow 23% accessory structure lot coverage and 43% total lot coverage (carried)
• Approved minor variance for 202 Youngfox Road to allow 16% accessory structure lot coverage and 42% total lot coverage (carried)
• Authorized signing By-Law #22-53 for NOHFC contribution agreement to purchase a new ice resurfacer (carried)
• Adopted minutes of October 3 and October 11, 2022 meetings (carried)
• Supported ELNOS Business Retention + Expansion project by providing office space (carried)
• Approved the agenda as presented (carried)
• Authorized signing By-Law #22-54 to adopt the minutes of this meeting (carried)
• Adjourned at 7:34 p.m. (carried)

Infrastructure Services Committee

The Blind River Infrastructure Services Committee meets to review administrative reports, including a Tulloch Engineering project list, fleet management for an asphalt hot box recycler, the September 2022 public works report, and a SaniDump financial update to September 30, 2022. The agenda is routine with no public presentations or correspondence listed.

• Tulloch Engineering project summary (19-1131) dated September 13, 2022
• Fleet management report on asphalt hot box recycler with RAP brochure
• Public works report for September 2022
• SaniDump update to September 30, 2022 with revenue/expense details

The Blind River Infrastructure Services Committee met on October 12, 2022, but made no substantive decisions. The only action taken was adopting the minutes from the September 14, 2022 meeting. Other agenda items were discussed without recommendations due to the committee's lame-duck status.

• Adopted minutes of September 14, 2022 (carried)

Special Council Meeting

This is a special council meeting focused on administrative matters: approving the agenda, declarations of interest, training on the eSCRIBE Vote Manager system, and passing a confirming by-law (22-52) to ratify previous decisions. No substantive policy or public hearing items are listed.

• Training on eSCRIBE Vote Manager
• Confirming By-law 22-52

The special meeting was primarily a training session for Council and Administration to demonstrate the functionality of Vote Manager and Webcasting. No substantive decisions were made; the only actions were procedural approvals of the agenda and minutes, and adjournment.

• Approved agenda as presented (carried)
• Authorized Mayor and CAO/Clerk to sign By-law #21-52 adopting the meeting minutes (carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 4:56 p.m. (carried)

Protective Services Committee

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

• Adoption of September 13, 2022 meeting minutes
• Director of Protective Services September report

The committee approved the meeting agenda and adopted the minutes from September 13, 2022, with no substantive decisions made. The Director of Protective Services presented a September report for discussion only.

• Approved meeting agenda as presented (carried)
• Adopted minutes of September 13, 2022, as presented (carried)

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council is meeting to review administrative reports, including an ongoing projects update, and to consider several committee recommendations. Key items include a proposed policy on electronic monitoring of employees, a FedNor contribution agreement amendment for the Downtown Waterfront Enhancement project, and a road closure request. The agenda also includes routine items like adopting previous minutes and a confirming by-law.

• Electronic Monitoring of Employees at Work Policy
• FedNor Amendment to Contribution Agreement (Project 513861) for Downtown Waterfront Enhancement
• Road closure request from K. Mayer
• 2022 Santa Claus Parade planning
• Accessible beach mat proposal

Council adopted an Electronic Monitoring of Employees at Work Policy as amended, authorized a health care summary for rural Northern Ontario, created a reserve account for an accessible beach mat at Sellers Beach, and approved the 2022 Santa Claus Parade hosted by the Blind River Figure Skating Club on November 12. Council also supported Bill 5 (Stopping Harassment and Abuse by Local Leaders Act) and approved a road closure on Fullerton Street for a Fall Festival on October 15.

• Adopted Electronic Monitoring of Employees at Work Policy as amended (carried)
• Authorized administration to create a comprehensive health care summary for rural Northern Ontario (carried)
• Authorized creation of a dedicated reserve account for the Sellers Beach Mat Project (carried)
• Authorized Blind River Figure Skating Club to host 2022 Santa Claus Parade on November 12, with fire services participation and free barricades (carried)
• Authorized Mayor and CAO/Clerk to sign amended FedNor agreement for Downtown Waterfront Enhancement Project (carried)
• Supported Bill 5, Stopping Harassment and Abuse by Local Leaders Act, and forwarded resolution to MPPs and Premier (carried)
• Approved road closure on Fullerton Street to driveway of 18 Fullerton on October 15 for Fall Festival vendor overflow, with municipal barricades (carried)
• Authorized signing of By-law #22-51 to adopt the meeting minutes (carried)

Community Services Committee

The Blind River Community Services Committee is meeting to review administrative reports from the Director of Facilities & Community Services on topics including health care in Northern Ontario, a Beavers and Cadets event, an accessible beach mat, accessible seating, an ice resurfacer, a community services impact map, a September summary, and the 2022 Santa Claus Parade. The committee will also adopt previous minutes and handle routine procedural items. No decisions are listed on the agenda; items are for discussion or information.

• Report on Accessing Northern Ontario Health Care
• Report on Beavers and Cadets Partnership event
• Report on Accessible Beach Mat
• Report on Accessible Seating in Blind River
• Report on Ice Resurfacer

The committee voted to recommend that Council authorize a comprehensive summary on health care in Northern Ontario to address service gaps and support vulnerable populations. It also recommended creating a dedicated reserve account for a wheelchair-friendly beach mat at Sellers Beach. Additionally, the committee recommended that Council authorize the Blind River Figure Skating Club to host the 2022 Santa Claus Parade on November 12, with Fire Services participation and free barricades.

• Approved recommendation to Council for a health care summary addressing rural Northern Ontario gaps and emergency support for vulnerable populations
• Approved recommendation to Council to create a 'Sellers Beach Mat Project' reserve account for an accessible beach mat
• Approved recommendation to Council to authorize the Blind River Figure Skating Club to host the 2022 Santa Claus Parade on November 12
• Approved Fire Services participation in the parade and free barricades for the event
• Adopted the minutes of the June 29, 2022 meeting as presented
• Accepted the agenda as presented

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The Blind River Corporate Services Committee is meeting to discuss several administrative reports, including a proposed highway agreement with Mississauga First Nation, a new policy on electronic monitoring of employees, and updates on tax and water receivables for July and August 2022. The committee will also adopt minutes from the previous meeting and handle routine procedural items.

• Mississauga First Nation Highway Specific Agreement (with schedule3_lands_d3.pdf)
• Electronic Monitoring of Employees at Work Policy
• Taxes Receivable July 2022 report
• Taxes Receivable August 2022 report
• Water Receivables July and August 2022 reports

The Corporate Services Committee recommended that Council adopt an Electronic Monitoring of Employees at Work Policy. The committee also received updates on the Palace Theatre request for proposals, noting no formal proposals have been submitted yet. The meeting was brief, lasting only seven minutes, and included adoption of previous minutes and the agenda.

• Recommended Council adopt the Electronic Monitoring of Employees at Work Policy as presented.
• Adopted the agenda as presented.
• Adopted the minutes of the July 25, 2022 meeting as presented.
• Adjourned the meeting at 10:35 a.m.

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council's regular meeting includes administrative reports, a proposed noise bylaw amendment, a minor variance application for 1911 High Road, and updates on service delivery and public works. Council will also consider correspondence on federal electoral boundaries and the Strong Mayors Building Homes Act, and enter closed session for legal matters.

• By-Law #22-49: Amendment to Noise By-law #21-24
• V2022-007: Minor variance application for 1911 High Road
• CMHC loan balance and payment report for August 2022
• Service Delivery Review Update for September 2022
• Correspondence re: Federal Electoral Boundaries Commission and Strong Mayors Building Homes Act

Council approved a minor variance for 1911 High Road to allow a 324 sq. ft. addition to a non-conforming dwelling with a reduced setback from the high water mark. They also passed a resolution opposing federal electoral boundary changes that would reduce Northern Ontario's representation, and supported resolutions against Bill 3 (Strong Mayors, Building Homes Act). Additionally, they approved recommendations for the 2023 budget, including an apprentice/junior mechanic position and a reserve fund for an outdoor sand shed, and passed a by-law amending the noise by-law.

• Approved minor variance for 1911 High Road (carried)
• Approved resolution opposing federal electoral boundary changes (carried)
• Approved resolution supporting opposition to Bill 3 (carried)
• Approved recommendation for apprentice/junior mechanic position in 2023 budget (carried)
• Approved recommendation for outdoor sand shed reserve fund in 2023 budget (carried)
• Passed By-law #22-49 amending noise by-law (carried)
• Adopted minutes of September 6, 2022 meeting (carried)

Public Meeting - Planning

This is a public meeting of the Town Council to consider a minor variance application (V2022-007) for the property at 1911 High Road. The agenda includes a technical report and a letter of support. No other substantive items are listed.

• Minor variance application V2022-007 for 1911 High Road
• Technical report and letter of support attached

Council held a public meeting to consider a variance application for a property at 1911 High Road. The property is legally non-conforming, and the proposed addition would not encroach to the water's edge. No decision was made; the matter was only discussed.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:32 p.m. (unanimous)

Water and Wastewater Committee

The Blind River Water and Wastewater Committee is meeting on September 14, 2022, with a largely procedural agenda. The meeting includes adoption of previous minutes, presentations from the PUC, Tulloch Engineering, and Algoma Public Health, plus administrative reports and new business. No specific decisions or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda text.

• Adoption of June 8, 2022 meeting minutes
• PUC presentation
• Tulloch Engineering presentation
• Algoma Public Health presentation

The Blind River Water and Wastewater Committee held a routine meeting on September 14, 2022, adopting the agenda and the minutes from the June 8, 2022 meeting. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting consisted of updates from PUC, Tulloch Engineering, and Algoma Public Health, and the next meeting was scheduled for December 14, 2022.

• Approved agenda as presented (carried)
• Adopted minutes of June 8, 2022 meeting (carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:21 a.m. (carried)

Infrastructure Services Committee

The Blind River Infrastructure Services Committee is meeting to review administrative reports, including a Tulloch Engineering project list, a Suncor remedial excavation at 3 Percell Street, and the August 2022 Public Works report. They will also acknowledge a stormwater management system application letter and adopt previous minutes. The agenda is largely routine administrative business.

• Tulloch Engineering project list (Aug 16, 2022)
• Suncor remedial excavation at 3 Percell Street (Stantec report)
• Public Works Report August 2022
• Stormwater Management System CLI application acknowledgment (Ref. 2859-CH7JN5)
• Adoption of Aug 10, 2022 minutes

The Infrastructure Services Committee recommended that Council budget for an apprentice mechanic position and reserve funds for an outdoor sand shed. The committee also received updates on a railroad project starting October 3, 2022, and a $24,000 quote for a fuel pump card lock system. No substantive decisions were made beyond these recommendations.

• Recommended Council budget for apprentice mechanic position (carried)
• Recommended Council budget reserve funds for outdoor sand shed construction (carried)
• Accepted agenda as presented (carried)
• Adopted minutes of August 10, 2022 (carried)

Protective Services Committee

The Blind River Protective Services Committee is meeting to review the Director's summer 2022 report, discuss mandatory firefighter certification, and consider an amendment to the noise by-law. The agenda also includes routine items like adopting previous minutes and declarations of conflict of interest.

• Review of Protective Services report for Summer 2022
• Discussion of Mandatory Firefighter Certification
• Amendment to Noise By-law (22-XX Noise Amendment)
• Adoption of June 14, 2022 minutes

The Protective Services Committee approved the agenda and previous minutes, discussed the Director's summer report and mandatory firefighter certification, and recommended that Council adopt a bylaw amendment to the Noise By-law.

• Approved meeting agenda as presented (carried)
• Adopted minutes of June 14, 2022 (carried)
• Recommended Council sign By-law #22-XX to amend Noise By-law 21-24 (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) monthly reports (April through July 2022) with ICON data. They will also receive a bi-annual update on provincial offenses courts for Espanola, Elliot Lake, and Blind River. No major decisions or public hearings are listed.

• Adoption of June 7, 2022 meeting minutes
• OPP April 2022 ICON report
• OPP monthly reports for May, June, and July 2022
• Bi-annual update for Espanola, Elliot Lake, and Blind River Provincial Offenses Courts

The Blind River Police Services Board approved the agenda and adopted the June 7, 2022 minutes. It accepted the Ontario Provincial Police monthly reports for May, June, and July 2022 as presented. Chair K. Kennedy noted concern about a recent rise in gun crime, which R. Walsh attributed to drug trade migration from urban centres. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved agenda as presented (carried)
• Adopted June 7, 2022 minutes as presented (carried)
• Accepted OPP monthly reports for May, June, July 2022 as presented (carried)

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council is holding its regular meeting on September 6, 2022. The agenda includes a stakeholder update from North Shore Power Group, an update on ongoing capital and operating projects, a proposal to return to in-person council meetings with eSCRIBE training, and a report on the WSIB Health and Safety Excellence Program. Council will also consider a property transfer for a drainage easement at 55 Woodward Ave and correspondence about the exterior condition of the post office.

• North Shore Power Group stakeholder update
• Ongoing projects update (capital and operating tracking)
• Return to in-person council meetings with eSCRIBE training
• WSIB Health and Safety Excellence Program report
• Transfer of property at 55 Woodward Ave for drainage easement

Council voted to postpone resuming in-person council and committee meetings until after November 15, 2022, when the new council takes office, due to scheduling conflicts for eSCRIBE training. They also authorized the CAO/Clerk to transfer town-owned property in exchange for a drainage easement, and to send a letter to Canada Post about concerns with the local post office. All motions were carried unanimously.

• Approved agenda as presented (carried)
• Adopted minutes of Aug. 8 and Aug. 24 meetings (carried)
• Postponed in-person council meetings until after Nov. 15, 2022 (carried)
• Authorized property transfer for drainage easement (carried)
• Authorized letter to Canada Post re: post office conditions (carried)
• Passed by-law #22-48 to adopt meeting minutes (carried)

Special Council Meeting

This is a special council meeting agenda for Blind River, ON, but the provided text contains only boilerplate interface labels and no actual agenda items, decisions, or discussion topics. The meeting appears to be procedural only, with no concrete business listed.

The special meeting was largely procedural, with council approving the agenda, entering closed session to discuss a proposed or pending land acquisition, and then resuming open session. No substantive decisions were made in open session; the only action was adoption of the meeting minutes by by-law.

• Approved agenda and closed meeting agenda (22-264, carried)
• Entered closed session to discuss land acquisition (22-265, carried)
• Resumed open meeting (22-266, carried)
• Authorized signing of by-law to adopt meeting minutes (22-267, carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 4:15 p.m. (22-268, carried)

Infrastructure Services Committee

The Blind River Infrastructure Services Committee is meeting to review administrative reports, including a project list from Tulloch Engineering and a proposed property transfer to obtain a drainage easement at 55 Woodward Ave. The agenda also includes routine items like adopting previous minutes and declarations of conflict of interest.

• Review of Tulloch Engineering project list (report 19-1131)
• Transfer of property to obtain a drainage easement
• Property at 55 Woodward Ave
• Adoption of July 13, 2022 minutes

The Infrastructure Services Committee recommended that council authorize the CAO to transfer town-owned property (rear of PLAN 180 LOT 37 to LOT 39) to the adjacent property owner in exchange for a drainage easement. The motion was carried. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting also included routine agenda adoption, minutes approval, and updates on projects and the Hanes/Hawkins tender (no bids received).

• Recommended property transfer to owner for drainage easement (carried)
• Adopted agenda as presented (carried)
• Adopted July 13, 2022 minutes (carried)

Budget Committee

The Blind River Budget Committee is meeting to review a budget presentation, the June 30, 2022 year-to-date financial update, a proposal for ClearRisk risk and claims software, and a CMHC balloon payment. These are administrative reports for discussion; no decisions are listed on the agenda.

• June 30, 2022 YTD financial update and budget variance
• ClearRisk risk and claims software proposal
• CMHC balloon payment discussion
• Adoption of January 20, 2022 minutes

The Blind River Budget Committee met on August 10, 2022, and made several recommendations to Council regarding budget adjustments. They recommended deferring the Control Building Roof replacement and reallocating funds to the WTP Steps project, with remaining funds going to the Water Reserve. They also recommended transferring funds from the Roads Reserve for the 2022 Surface Treatment program and offsetting Community Days costs from the Special Events Reserve. The committee also discussed the ClearRisk software and CMHC balloon payment, and entered closed session for labour relations.

• Recommended deferring Control Building Roof replacement and reallocating funds to WTP Steps project (carried)
• Recommended transferring remaining funds to Water Reserve (carried)
• Recommended transferring additional funds from Roads Reserve for 2022 Surface Treatment program (carried)
• Recommended offsetting Community Days costs from Special Events Reserve (carried)
• Adopted minutes of January 20, 2022 meeting (carried)
• Entered closed session for labour relations at 3:12 p.m. (carried)
• Resumed open session at 3:49 p.m. (carried)
• Adjourned at 3:49 p.m. (carried)

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council is meeting to review administrative reports, consider awarding a courthouse demolition tender, and vote on a zoning amendment for 238 Robb Road. Council will also discuss a CMHC loan pre-payment, ongoing project updates, and correspondence items. Several items are for discussion or decision, including by-laws for a new lake intake water source and the zoning amendment.

• Tender award recommendation for courthouse demolition from Tulloch Engineering
• Zoning amendment application ZBL-2021-007 for 238 Robb Road
• By-Law #22-44: Investing in Canada Agreement for New Lake Intake Water Source
• CMHC loan pre-payment for August 2022
• Woodward Avenue reconstruction site meeting update

Council awarded the demolition contract for the former courthouse at 15 Hudson Street to Beamish Construction for $397,900 plus HST, funded from the Facilities Reserve. They also approved a zoning amendment for 238 Robb Road, a $1.2M CMHC loan pre-payment, and several other administrative items.

• Awarded courthouse demolition tender to Beamish Construction ($397,900 + HST) (carried)
• Approved $1,200,000 CMHC loan pre-payment (carried)
• Approved zoning amendment at 238 Robb Road requiring 300m side yard setback (carried)
• Adopted Driver's Abstract Policy (carried)
• Approved joint Compliance Audit Committee with Elliot Lake, North Shore, Spanish (carried)
• Approved Woodward Avenue reconstruction, reducing from 4 to 2 lanes (carried)
• Authorized beaver trapping contract with Robin Horwath at no cost (carried)
• Approved $500 sponsorship for Cameco Charity Golf Tournament (carried)

Special Infrastructure Services Meeting

The Infrastructure Services Committee is holding a special meeting to discuss the Woodward Avenue reconstruction project, based on a report from Tulloch Engineering. The meeting includes a site visit and consideration of an administrative report with attached sketches. No decisions are listed on the agenda beyond approving the agenda and adjourning.

• Tulloch Engineering report on Woodward Avenue Reconstruction
• Site meeting scheduled as part of the agenda
• Council sketch 22-0816-SK1 attached

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The Blind River Corporate Services Committee is meeting to review administrative reports, including a proposed Compliance Audit Committee for 2022-2026, a new Driver's Abstract Policy, a wellness policy mid-year usage report, and June 2022 tax and water receivables. The agenda is largely procedural, with no public presentations or correspondence listed.

• Compliance Audit Committee 2022-2026 terms of reference
• Driver's Abstract Policy with Highway Traffic Act demerit point schedule
• Wellness Policy mid-year usage report
• Taxes receivable report for June 2022
• Water receivables report for June 2022

The Corporate Services Committee approved a recommendation to Council to form a Joint Municipal Election Compliance Audit Committee with Elliot Lake, North Shore, and Spanish, appointing their clerks as members and Blind River's clerk as secretary. It also recommended Council adopt a Driver's Abstract Policy. The committee discussed a wellness policy review and received reports on taxes and water receivables, but took no other substantive decisions.

• Approved recommendation for Joint Municipal Election Compliance Audit Committee (carried)
• Approved recommendation to adopt Driver's Abstract Policy (carried)
• Adopted minutes of June 27 meeting as amended (carried)
• Accepted agenda as presented (carried)

Infrastructure Services Committee

The Blind River Infrastructure Services Committee is meeting to review administrative reports, including a project summary from Tulloch Engineering and a report from the Treasurer on the SaniDump facility. The agenda also includes routine items such as adopting previous minutes and declarations of conflict of interest. No public presentations or correspondence are listed.

• Tulloch Engineering project summary dated June 7, 2022
• Treasurer's SaniDump report with updates to June 30, 2022
• Adoption of minutes from June 8, 2022 meeting

The Infrastructure Services Committee approved the agenda and the minutes of the June 8, 2022 meeting. It noted that the Courthouse Demolition Tender site meeting occurred last week, with another scheduled this week, and the tender closing will be extended by 1.5 weeks, with project commencement expected in August. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved agenda as presented (carried)
• Adopted minutes of June 8, 2022 (carried)
• Noted Courthouse Demolition Tender site meeting held; another scheduled this week
• Noted tender closing extended by 1.5 weeks; project commencement expected in August

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council's regular meeting includes a presentation from KPMG on the draft 2021 financial statements, a report on backhoe tender results, and final 2021 reserve transfers. Council will also consider a by-law for a NOHFC agreement for an inclusive outdoor play project, and discuss updates on ongoing projects and service delivery. Several items, including personnel and land matters, are scheduled for closed session.

• KPMG presentation on 2021 draft financial statements
• Backhoe tender results report
• Final 2021 reserve transfers
• By-Law #22-42: NOHFC agreement for Inclusive Outdoor Play
• ClearRisk risk and claims software consideration

Blind River Council approved the purchase of a John Deere backhoe for $152,437 including HST, funded from the Equipment Reserve, with a 2023 budget transfer to replenish the reserve. Council also accepted the 2021 financial statements, updated municipal user fees to include a 90-minute wedding fee of $35+HST at Sellers Beach and The Marine Park, and authorized a by-law for a NOHFC agreement to upgrade six outdoor recreation parks. Additionally, Council nominated Councillor B.A. Dunbar to the ELNOS board and authorized advertising for a full-time Arena/Marina Labourer.

• Approved purchase of John Deere backhoe for $152,437 including HST (carried)
• Accepted 2021 Financial Statements as presented by KPMG (carried)
• Approved transfers to reserve as presented (carried)
• Authorized ClearRisk Risk and Claims System forwarded to Budget Committee (carried)
• Updated Municipal User Fees to include 90-minute, $35+HST wedding fee at Sellers Beach and The Marine Park (carried)
• Nominated Councillor B.A. Dunbar as ELNOS board representative for 2022-2023 (carried)
• Authorized By-Law #22-42 for NOHFC agreement to purchase play equipment and upgrade six outdoor recreation parks (carried)
• Authorized advertising for full-time Arena/Marina Labourer in Parks and Recreation (carried)

Community Services Committee

The Community Services Committee recommended that Council update By-Law #22-14 to add a 90-minute, $35+HST wedding fee at Sellers Beach and The Marine Park. The committee also received updates on marina, museum, and waterfront projects, and suspended its July meeting to allow staff to focus on ongoing work.

• Recommended adding $35+HST wedding fee at Sellers Beach and The Marine Park (carried)
• Adopted minutes of May 25, 2022 meeting (carried)
• Accepted agenda as presented (carried)
• Suspended July 2022 committee meeting

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The Blind River Corporate Services Committee is meeting to review administrative reports on building permit activity, the Palace Theatre, a proposed risk and claims software purchase, and May 2022 tax and water receivables. The agenda also includes routine items like adopting previous minutes and declarations of conflict of interest. No decisions are listed; items are presented for discussion.

• Building permit activity report for May 2022
• Palace Theatre update
• ClearRisk risk and claims software proposal
• Taxes receivable report for May 2022
• Water receivables report for May 2022

The Corporate Services Committee met and made one substantive recommendation: to forward the ClearRisk risk and claims software to the Budget Committee for 2023 budget deliberations. The committee also referred the Palace Theatre item to Council for discussion, noting no proposals had been received. All other agenda items were procedural, including adopting the previous minutes and accepting the agenda.

• Recommended ClearRisk software to Budget Committee for 2023 budget (carried)
• Referred Palace Theatre item to Council for discussion
• Adopted minutes of May 30, 2022 meeting (carried)
• Accepted agenda as presented (carried)

Public Meeting - Planning

The Town Council is holding a public meeting to consider two planning applications: a minor variance for 2126 Highway 557 and a zoning by-law amendment for 84 Indiana Avenue (Talbot's Park). The agenda includes reports and letters of opposition for the rezoning. No decisions are listed; the meeting is for discussion and public input.

• Minor variance application V2022-006 for 2126 Highway 557
• Zoning amendment application ZBL2022-002 for 84 Indiana Avenue (Talbot's Park)
• Five letters of opposition filed against the Talbot's Park rezoning

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council's regular meeting includes presentations on the asset management plan, a community initiative, and a water distribution system assessment. Council will also consider administrative reports on road closures, a minor variance, and a zoning by-law amendment, plus several by-laws including a deeming by-law and a NOHFC agreement.

• Presentation: PSD Citywide on Asset Management Plan
• Presentation: Tulloch Engineering on Blind River Water Distribution System Assessment
• Report: Road closures for July 9, 2022
• Minor variance application V2022-006 for 2126 Highway 557
• Zoning by-law amendment ZBL22-002 for 84 Indiana Avenue

Council approved a zoning change for 84 Indiana Avenue from Open Space to Residential Multiple, allowing for residential development. They also accepted the Asset Management Plan, approved road closures for a July 9 parade, and granted a minor variance at 2126 Highway 557. Several by-laws were passed, including one delegating site plan approval authority to the CAO/Clerk.

• Approved rezoning at 84 Indiana Ave from OS to RM (recorded vote, carried)
• Accepted Asset Management Plan as presented by PSD Citywide
• Approved road closures for July 9 parade and downtown pedestrian area
• Granted minor variance at 2126 Highway 557 for accessory building size
• Approved temporary noise permit for July 17 at 150 Rocky Road
• Recommended yield sign at Dawsy St/Hamilton Ave intersection
• Passed By-Law #22-38 deeming plan of subdivision at 20/22 Lake Drive
• Passed By-Law #22-40 delegating site plan control approval to CAO/Clerk

Protective Services Committee

The Blind River Protective Services Committee is meeting to review administrative reports and discuss several public safety items, including a temporary noise permit application, a proposed yield sign at Dawsy St. and Hamilton Ave., and speed sign installations. The agenda is largely routine, with no major decisions listed beyond these items.

• Application for Temporary Noise Permit under Noise By-Law 21-24
• Yield sign at Dawsy St. / Hamilton Ave. intersection
• Speed sign installation (with photos and Trudel reference)
• Director of Protective Services May report

The Protective Services Committee reviewed the Director's May report and discussed a speed sign installation report. It voted to recommend that Council approve a temporary noise permit for July 17, 2022 at 150 Rocky Road, and install a yield sign at Dawsy St./Hamilton Ave. No final decisions were made; all items are recommendations to Council.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Adopted minutes of May 10, 2022
• Recommended Council approve temporary noise permit for July 17, 2022 at 150 Rocky Road (carried)
• Recommended Council install yield sign on eastbound Dawsy St. at Hamilton Ave. (carried)

BRDC

The Blind River Development Corporation Board approved its 2022 budget as presented. The board also authorized Chair J. Posteraro to sign agreement 7510023 with the Town of Blind River and the Northern Ontario Heritage Foundation Corporation for the 'TIC 243 Causley Street' project. Additionally, the board requested municipal staff investigate implementing a Municipal Accommodation Tax.

• Approved 2022 BRDC budget (carried)
• Authorized Chair J. Posteraro to sign NOHFC agreement 7510023 for TIC 243 Causley Street (carried)
• Requested municipal staff investigate Municipal Accommodation Tax implementation (carried)

Infrastructure Services Committee

The Blind River Infrastructure Services Committee is meeting to review routine administrative reports, including the CAO/Clerk's April 2022 report, Public Works monthly updates for May 2022, infrastructure complaints for April, gravel pit operations, a Tulloch Engineering project list update, and a SaniDump update. The committee will also consider correspondence from Kresin Engineering regarding landfill surface water management. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Public Works monthly report for May 2022 with variance report and building demolition updates
• Infrastructure Services e11 submissions (complaints) for April 2022
• Gravel pit operations report
• Project list update from Tulloch Engineering (draft summary dated 05.10.2022)
• Correspondence from Kresin Engineering on landfill surface water management (May 2022)

The Infrastructure Services Committee accepted the May 2022 Public Works Monthly Report and agreed to consider a hot box and recycler for pothole patching during 2023 budget deliberations. The committee also adopted the April 13, 2022 minutes and approved the agenda. No other substantive decisions were made; most items were informational updates.

• Approved agenda as presented (carried)
• Adopted minutes of April 13, 2022 (carried)
• Accepted May 2022 Public Works Monthly Report (carried)
• Deferred hot box and recycler request to 2023 budget deliberations (carried)

Water and Wastewater Committee

The Blind River Water and Wastewater Committee is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda is largely procedural, covering call to order, review of the agenda, conflict of interest declarations, adoption of previous minutes, and business arising. Scheduled items include presentations from the PUC, Tulloch Engineering, and Algoma Public Health, but no specific decisions or dollar amounts are listed.

• Adoption of March 9, 2022 meeting minutes
• PUC presentation
• Tulloch Engineering presentation
• Algoma Public Health presentation

The Blind River Water and Wastewater Committee held a routine meeting on June 8, 2022, with no substantive decisions made. The committee approved the agenda and adopted the minutes from the March 9, 2022 meeting. Presentations were given by PUC Services and Tulloch Engineering, but no motions for action were passed.

• Approved agenda as presented (carried)
• Adopted minutes of March 9, 2022 meeting (carried)

Police Services Board

The Blind River Police Services Board is meeting to review routine administrative reports, including monthly OPP activity reports (ICON reports for February and March 2022, and monthly reports for March and April 2022), as well as May 2022 speed sign data. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• OPP Monthly ICON Report - February 2022
• OPP Monthly Report - March 2022
• OPP Monthly ICON Report - March 2022
• OPP Monthly Report - April 2022
• May 2022 Speed Sign Data

The Blind River Police Services Board met on June 7, 2022, and approved the agenda and the minutes from the March 22, 2022 meeting. The board accepted the monthly OPP reports for March and April 2022 as presented. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included routine updates and discussion of a community postcard initiative.

• Approved agenda as presented (carried)
• Adopted minutes of March 22, 2022 meeting (carried)
• Accepted Monthly Police Reports for March and April 2022 (carried)

Public Meeting - Planning

The Town Council is holding a public meeting to consider two planning applications for minor variances, one at 275 Eldorado Road and one at 1787 High Road. The agenda includes technical reports for each application. No decisions are listed on the agenda; the meeting is for discussion and public input.

• Minor variance application V2022-004 for 275 Eldorado Road
• Minor variance application V2022-005 for 1787 High Road
• Technical reports attached for both applications

The council held a public meeting to consider two planning applications but took no formal decisions. The first application (V2022-004) seeks to create storage for new golf carts at 275 Eldorado Road, and the second (V2022-005) proposes replacing an existing deck at 1787 High Road with a larger, screened-in version. No concerns were received for either application, and the meeting adjourned without a vote on the applications.

• Agenda approved (22-196)
• Meeting adjourned at 6:05 p.m. (22-197)

Council Meeting

The Council will review several administrative reports, including project tracking and service delivery updates. Discussion items include minor variance applications for Eldorado Road and High Road, as well as a presentation on wastewater treatment needs.

• Waste Water Treatment Plant Needs Assessment presentation by Tulloch Engineering
• Minor Variance application for 275 Eldorado Road
• Minor Variance application for 1787 High Road
• Town Park Stage area report
• By-Law #22-36 regarding 38, 40 and 42 Togo Street

Council accepted the tender from Beamish Construction for the Waterfront Shoreline Stabilization Project at $418,650 plus HST. They also approved two minor variances, a delegation of authority policy, cyber insurance, and several other resolutions. A resolution urging provincial action on Northern Ontario health care was carried.

• Approved $418,650 shoreline stabilization tender (carried)
• Granted minor variance at 275 Eldorado Road for 10 sea containers (carried)
• Approved minor variance at 1787 High Road for 345 sq ft addition (carried)
• Approved Delegation of Authority Policy (carried)
• Accepted $10,270 cyber insurance quote from CFC Underwriting (carried)
• Directed NSPG to move $930,281.90 to Balloon Payment account (carried)
• Authorized $250 donation to Mississauga First Nation Pow Wow (carried)
• Approved By-law #22-36 for property consolidation at 38-42 Togo Street (carried)

Communications Committee

This is a routine procedural meeting of the Blind River Communications Committee. The agenda covers call to order, agenda review, conflict declarations, adoption of previous minutes, business arising, a closed session for personnel matters, and adjournment. No substantive decisions or discussions are listed on the open agenda.

• Adoption of Nov 29, 2021 meeting minutes
• Closed session for personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees
• Closed session item on personnel

The Communications Committee approved its agenda and the minutes from the November 29, 2021 meeting, then moved into closed session to discuss personnel matters under the Municipal Act. No substantive decisions were made in open session.

• Approved agenda and closed meeting agenda as presented
• Adopted minutes of November 29, 2021 meeting
• Moved into closed session for personnel matters
• Adjourned at 12:01 p.m.

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The Blind River Corporate Services Committee is meeting to review administrative reports, including a draft Delegation of Authority policy, an April 2022 budget update, a cyber insurance renewal quote, and updates on taxes and water receivables. The agenda is routine, with no public presentations or correspondence listed.

• Draft Delegation of Authority policy for CAO/Clerk
• April 2022 budget update with variance report
• Cyber renewal quote for 2022-2023
• Taxes receivable report for April 2022
• Water receivables report for April 2022

The Corporate Services Committee recommended that Council approve the Delegation of Authority Policy as presented. It also recommended accepting a cyber insurance quote from CFC Underwriting for $10,270 plus taxes. No submissions had been received for the Palace Theatre RFP as of the meeting date.

• Recommended Council approve Delegation of Authority Policy (carried)
• Recommended Council accept CFC Underwriting cyber insurance quote of $10,270 plus taxes (carried)
• Adopted minutes of April 25, 2022 meeting (carried)
• Accepted agenda as presented (carried)

Community Services Committee

The Blind River Community Services Committee is meeting to review administrative reports and correspondence. Items include pronoun education, a community services update, ports of entry, promoting Blind River, and the town park stage area. The committee will also consider correspondence about the HNCEA Fishing Derby.

• Report on Pronoun Education
• May 2022 Community Services Update Guide
• Report on Ports of Entry
• 2022 Promotion plan for Blind River
• Town Park Stage Area report

The Blind River Community Services Committee recommended to Council that efficiencies within project 9000-6090 be reallocated to 9000-6231 to proceed with demolition of the derelict stage at Town Park. The committee also adopted the April 27, 2022 minutes and discussed vandalism in town parks, with staff open to suggestions. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Recommended reallocating project 9000-6090 efficiencies to 9000-6231 for Town Park stage demolition (carried)
• Adopted April 27, 2022 meeting minutes (carried)
• Accepted agenda as presented (carried)

Police Services Board

The Blind River Police Services Board is meeting to review routine administrative items, including the adoption of previous minutes and monthly Ontario Provincial Police reports for February and March 2022. The agenda contains no major decisions or public presentations, only standard procedural matters and report reviews.

• Adoption of March 22, 2022 meeting minutes
• OPP Monthly ICON Report for February 2022
• OPP Monthly Report for March 2022

Public Meeting - Planning

Town council holds a public meeting to consider three planning applications: two minor variance requests (74B Rocky Road and 2279B-6 Granary Lake Road) and one zoning amendment (44 Michigan Avenue). The agenda includes technical reports for each application, plus a letter of opposition and a parking document for the Michigan Avenue item. No decisions are listed on the agenda; the meeting is for discussion and public input.

• Minor variance application V2022-002 at 74B Rocky Road
• Minor variance application V2022-003 at 2279B-6 Granary Lake Road
• Zoning amendment ZBL2022-001 at 44 Michigan Avenue
• Letter of opposition from Bobyk regarding 44 Michigan Avenue
• Parking document attached to 44 Michigan Avenue application

The council held a public meeting to consider three planning applications: two variances (V2022-002 at 74B Rocky Road and V2022-003 at 2279B-6 Granary Lake Road) and a zoning amendment (ZBL2022-001 at 44 Michigan Avenue). No comments were received for the variances, and one concern about parking for the zoning amendment was satisfied. No decisions were made; the meeting was procedural only.

• Approved agenda as presented (22-174)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:05 p.m. (22-175)

Council Meeting

The Blind River Town Council is holding its regular meeting on May 16, 2022, with a full agenda of decisions and discussions. Council will hear public presentations on gravel mining in Ontario and LGBTQ+ Pride Month, consider minor variance applications for properties on Rocky Road and Granary Lake Road, and review an investment update. Several by-laws are up for consideration, including the 2022 tax rates, a golf course loan renewal, and a zoning amendment for 44 Michigan Avenue. The agenda also includes correspondence on Russian sanctions, downtown merchant recovery, and a demolition derby request.

• Public presentation by Rhonda Kirby on gravel mining in Ontario and a proposed municipal moratorium
• Minor variance applications: V2022-002 (74B Rocky Road) and V2022-003 (2279B-6 Granary Lake Road)
• By-Law #22-32: Tax Rates 2022
• By-Law #22-33: Golf Course Loan Renewal 2022
• By-Law #22-34: Zoning By-Law Amendment for 44 Michigan Avenue

Council approved the 2022 tax rates by-law, renewed the golf course loan, and passed a zoning amendment. It also adopted a resolution denouncing Russia's invasion of Ukraine and supporting federal sanctions, including a ban on purchasing Russian goods. Several minor variances and community event supports were approved.

• Approved 2022 tax rates by-law #22-32
• Renewed golf course expansion loan at 3.96% for 12 months
• Approved zoning amendment at 44 Michigan Avenue
• Denounced Russia's invasion of Ukraine and supported sanctions
• Granted minor variance at 74B Rocky Road for dwelling addition
• Granted minor variance at 2279B-6 Granary Lake Road for dwelling addition
• Authorized road closures for downtown merchant events on July 30, Aug 27, Sep 24
• Approved $1,500 donation for downtown promotion billboards

Protective Services Committee

The Blind River Protective Services Committee is meeting to review the Director of Protective Services' April report and discuss the Demo Derby. The agenda includes standard items like adopting previous minutes and declarations of conflict of interest, with no other substantive items listed.

• Review of Director of Protective Services April report
• Discussion of Demo Derby
• Adoption of April 12, 2022 minutes

The committee approved the agenda and adopted the April 12, 2022 minutes. Members reviewed the Director of Protective Services' April report. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting adjourned at 1:13 p.m.

• Approved agenda as presented (carried)
• Adopted April 12, 2022 minutes (carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 1:13 p.m. (carried)

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council is meeting to consider several administrative reports, including a proposed 203-foot telecommunication tower installation, library window replacement, borrowing status, and insurance renewal for 2022-2023. The council will also review ongoing projects, a social media policy draft, and correspondence on topics like mask mandates and homelessness. The agenda includes a closed session for land acquisition/disposition and personnel matters.

• Installation of 203-foot telecommunication tower
• Library window replacement (quotes and board resolution attached)
• Insurance renewal 2022-2023
• Borrowing status and cost to maintain paving
• 2021 COVID-funding allocations and year-end reserve transfers

Council approved several major items, including a new 203-foot telecommunications tower, a library window replacement project funded by reserves and tax levy, and a $260,643 insurance renewal. They also approved a consent application for land at 880/940 Poleline Road, adopted a social media policy, and deferred a $10,000 funding request from Maplegate House for Women to 2023 budget deliberations. A motion to mandate masks at council meetings was withdrawn, but meetings will continue via Zoom.

• Approved installation of 203-foot telecommunications tower at water tower site (carried)
• Approved library window replacement using $10,500 tax levy, $7,000 Facilities Reserve, $5,000 Library Reserve (carried)
• Accepted insurance proposal from Brokerlink/Intact for $260,643 plus taxes (carried)
• Approved consent application for 880/940 Poleline Road with conditions (carried)
• Adopted Social Media Policy (carried)
• Authorized rezoning process for Talbot's Park (carried)
• Deferred Maplegate House $10,000 annual bed funding to 2023 budget (carried)
• Approved sale of Forget-Me-Not Raffle tickets for Alzheimer Society (carried)

Special Council Meeting

This is a special council meeting that is largely procedural. The agenda includes a closed session for personal matters about identifiable individuals and proprietary intellectual property, followed by a report on the closed session and a confirming by-law (22-31). No substantive public decisions or discussions are listed.

• Closed session for personal matters about identifiable individuals, including municipal or local board employees
• Closed session items on proprietary intellectual property
• Confirming By-law 22-31

The special meeting was called to order and the agenda approved. Council then moved into closed session to discuss personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees, and resumed the open meeting before adjourning. No substantive decisions were made in open session.

• Approved agenda as presented (22-147)
• Moved into closed session for personal matters (22-148)
• Resumed open meeting (22-149)
• Adjourned meeting (22-150)

Community Services Committee

The Blind River Community Services Committee is meeting to review administrative reports on community services projects, including the April Community Services Guide, parks and recreation updates, and tourism-related summits. The agenda is largely informational, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• April Community Services Guide and 2022 Comm Services Project Book
• Share the Roads Summit 2022
• Ontario By Bike 2022 Summit
• Sound System Community Centre
• River Park Ball Diamond (Woodward Avenue)

The Community Services Committee approved the agenda and previous minutes, and accepted the Director's April report. It also recommended that Council authorize the CAO/Clerk to accept Cameco's project list for Cameco Cares Day on May 26, 2022, and make the Community Centre available for employee breaks. Other reports were reviewed and discussed without formal decisions.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Adopted minutes of February 23, 2022 meeting
• Accepted Director of Facilities & Community Services April report
• Recommended Council authorize CAO/Clerk to accept Cameco Cares Day project list
• Recommended Community Centre be made available for Cameco employees on May 26, 2022

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The Blind River Corporate Services Committee is meeting to discuss administrative reports including a draft Social Media Policy, an update on the Theatre RFP, progress on the municipal lands inventory, year-to-date building statistics, and several 2021 financial items from the Treasurer (preliminary results, COVID-funding allocations, required interest allocations, and proposed year-end reserve transfers). No decisions are listed on the agenda; items are for discussion and review.

• Draft Social Media Policy for review
• Theatre RFP update
• Municipal Lands Inventory progress report
• 2021 Preliminary Results and monthly report summary
• 2021 COVID-Funding Allocations and proposed year-end reserve transfers

The Corporate Services Committee made several recommendations to Council, including adopting a Social Media Policy, authorizing rezoning of Talbot's Park, transferring COVID-related funds, and allocating interest to reserve funds. The Theatre RFP received no proposals and was extended.

• Recommended Council adopt Social Media Policy (carried)
• Recommended Council authorize rezoning of Talbot's Park (Lot 87-90 Plan 180, Cobden) (carried)
• Recommended Council transfer $13,822.57 from Safe Restart Reserve for COVID expenses (carried)
• Recommended Council allocate interest to reserves: OCIF $3,493.88, CCBF $2,435.51, Provincial Gas Tax $395.15 (carried)
• Recommended Council approve preliminary 2021 year-end reserve transfers (carried)
• Noted Theatre RFP extended due to no proposals

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council's regular meeting covers administrative reports, correspondence, by-laws, and a closed session. Key items include a tender review for Boardwalk and Marina Upgrades Phase II, a notice of motion on a mandatory mask mandate, and a Trillium grant agreement by-law. The agenda also includes routine items like minutes adoption and a proclamation for Community Living Algoma.

• Tender review for Boardwalk and Marina Upgrades Phase II (Tulloch Engineering)
• Notice of motion by Councillor J Dunbar re: mandatory mask mandate
• By-Law #22-29: Trillium Grant Agreement (Resilient Communities Fund)
• Treasurer report on Library Window Replacement with quote
• Treasurer report on 2021 Council Remuneration

Protective Services Committee

The Blind River Protective Services Committee is meeting to review the Director's March 2022 report and consider equipment purchases (circular saw, grinding, power tools). The agenda is largely routine, with no public presentations, by-laws, or addendum items listed.

• Director of Protective Services March 2022 report
• Circular saw purchase
• Grinding equipment purchase
• Power tools purchase
• Adoption of March 8, 2022 minutes

The committee approved the agenda and adopted the March 8, 2022 minutes. Members reviewed the Director of Protective Services' March report. No substantive decisions were made beyond routine approvals.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Adopted March 8, 2022 minutes as presented
• Reviewed Director of Protective Services March report

Council Meeting

The Blind River Town Council is meeting to consider administrative reports, including a lot addition at 880 and 940G Poleline Road, a town hall generator purchase, library window replacement, and municipal modernization funding. They will also review policies on disconnecting from work, customer service, and election use of corporate resources, plus an addendum to the 2022 user fee by-law. The agenda includes a closed session for personnel matters.

• Lot addition application C2022-001 for 880 Poleline Rd and 940G Poleline Rd
• Town Hall generator purchase discussed via email chain
• Library window replacement with quote and board resolution
• Addendum to 2022 Municipal User Fee By-Law
• Amendment to Building By-Law 16-40 due to COVID-19 supply issues

Public Meeting - Planning

This is a public meeting of the Town Council to consider a planning application for consent (C2022-001) involving lot additions at 880 Poleline Road and 940G Poleline Road. The agenda includes a technical report, a map, and multiple letters of opposition from residents. No decision is indicated on the agenda; it is a public hearing to discuss the application.

• Application C2022-001 for consent at 880 Poleline Road and 940G Poleline Road
• Technical report on 940G and 880 Poleline Road
• Letters of opposition from multiple residents (e.g., Dickinson, Marchbanks, Mailloux, Toth)
• Map of the subject properties
• Public meeting scheduled 6:30-7:00 PM in Council Chambers

Council held a public meeting to hear a planning application (C2022-001) for 880 and 940G Poleline Road. No comments were received from public agencies, and opponents and the applicant addressed Council. The meeting adjourned without any decision; the application remains under consideration.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Adjourned meeting at 6:58 p.m.

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The Blind River Corporate Services Committee is meeting to review several administrative reports, including new policies on disconnecting from work and customer service, a policy on using corporate resources for elections, an amendment to the building by-law due to COVID-19 supply issues, and an addendum to the 2022 municipal user fee by-law. The committee will also adopt previous minutes and address any business arising from them.

• Review of Disconnecting from Work Policy
• Review of Customer Service Policy
• Policy on Use of Corporate Resources for Elections 2022
• Amendment to Building By-Law 16-40 due to COVID-19 supply issues
• Addendum to 2022 Municipal User Fee By-Law

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 monthly reports covering October 2021 through February 2022. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Adoption of Dec 14, 2021 meeting minutes
• OPP ICON Report for October 2021
• OPP monthly reports for November 2021, December 2021, January 2022, and February 2022

The Blind River Police Services Board met on March 22, 2022, and approved the agenda, adopted the December 14, 2021 minutes, and accepted the OPP monthly reports for October 2021 through February 2022. No substantive decisions were made beyond these routine approvals. The board noted that the structure of new police boards is in progress, with the City of Elliot Lake leading the project, and scheduled the next meeting for May 17, 2022.

• Approved agenda as presented (carried)
• Adopted minutes of December 14, 2021 meeting (carried)
• Accepted OPP monthly reports for Oct 2021, Nov 2021, Dec 2021, Jan 2022, Feb 2022 (carried)
• Adjourned at 10:36 a.m. (carried)

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council is holding its regular meeting on March 21, 2022. The agenda includes a request to increase taxi fares, a new open air burning by-law, a deeming by-law for properties on Bayridge Avenue, and several correspondence items. Council will also enter closed session to discuss personnel, land acquisition/disposition, and legal matters.

• Request for increase to taxi fares (Protective Services, March 8, 2022)
• By-Law #22-24: Open Air Burning By-Law
• By-Law #22-25: Deeming By-Law for 18 and 20 Bayridge Avenue
• Correspondence: Support for Ukraine, housing affordability task force, infrastructure funding
• Closed session: personnel, land offers, legal advice

Council declared the Senior Centre at 17 Michigan surplus and authorized the CAO/Clerk to list it for sale, with proceeds to be reserved for a new municipal facility. They also approved a taxi fare increase effective June 1, 2022, and authorized pre-budget approval to purchase a backhoe. Several resolutions of support were passed, including for the Thessalon Coastal Trail and for greater Canadian support for Ukraine.

• Declared Senior Centre at 17 Michigan surplus and authorized listing for sale (carried)
• Approved taxi fare increase effective June 1, 2022 (carried)
• Authorized pre-budget purchase of a backhoe to replace 2005 model (carried)
• Approved $10,000 re-allocation for Community Centre Kitchen upgrades (carried)
• Passed Open Air Burning By-law #22-24 (carried)
• Passed Deeming By-law #22-25 for Bayridge Avenue (carried)
• Approved $500 donation to Sault Ste. Marie & Algoma District Crime Stoppers (carried)
• Supported Thessalon Coastal Trail initiative (carried)

Infrastructure Services Committee

The Blind River Infrastructure Services Committee is meeting to discuss administrative reports on fleet management and an infrastructure failure. The agenda includes routine items like adopting previous minutes and declarations of conflict of interest, but the main business is these two reports.

• Report on Fleet Management with attached Fleet Plan
• Report on Infrastructure Failure

The Infrastructure Services Committee recommended that Council grant pre-budget approval to purchase a backhoe to replace the 2005 model, with the CAO authorized to tender and buy it, funded by savings from the Equipment Reserve. The committee also discussed an urgent infrastructure failure on Woodward requiring remediation this year, though not budgeted, and noted a special Council meeting will be scheduled to address Public Works staffing shortages.

• Recommended pre-budget approval for backhoe purchase (carried)
• Authorized CAO to tender and purchase backhoe (carried)
• Approved using Equipment Reserve savings from sweeper purchase to offset backhoe expense (carried)
• Adopted February 9, 2022 minutes as amended (carried)
• Approved agenda as presented (carried)

Water and Wastewater Committee

This is a routine procedural meeting of the Blind River Water and Wastewater Committee. The agenda includes adoption of previous minutes, business arising, and scheduled presentations from the PUC, Tulloch Engineering, and Algoma Public Health, but no specific items for decision are listed.

• Adoption of Dec 8, 2021 meeting minutes
• PUC presentation scheduled
• Tulloch Engineering presentation scheduled
• Algoma Public Health presentation scheduled

The Blind River Water and Wastewater Committee met on March 9, 2022, and approved the agenda and adopted the minutes from the December 8, 2021 meeting. The committee received updates from PUC Services on residential sampling requirements and from Tulloch Engineering on current projects. No substantive decisions were made beyond routine approvals.

• Approved agenda as presented (carried)
• Adopted minutes of December 8, 2021 meeting (carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:21 a.m. (carried)

Council Meeting

Council approved the installation of a generator at Town Hall for $291,000 plus HST, funded from the Facilities Reserve. They also approved backup generators for two wastewater pump stations, totaling $271,800 plus HST, funded from the OCIF Reserve. Several policies and event authorizations were adopted, and a working group was formed to address Lake Matinenda cottager concerns.

• Approved Town Hall generator installation, $291,000 + HST, funded from Facilities Reserve
• Approved backup generators for Nadon Pump Station ($137,550 + HST) and Dawsey Pump Station ($134,250 + HST), funded from OCIF Reserve
• Authorized month-long environmental focus in April for Earth Day 2022
• Authorized Blind River Figure Skating Club to host parade on July 9, 2022, with staff barricade support and fire department as lead
• Adopted Moonlighting Policy
• Adopted Charitable Donations Policy and directed staff to create programming
• Authorized signing of By-law #22-22 for 4s Health and Safety Contract
• Appointed members to Lake Matinenda Landing Working Group

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The Blind River Corporate Services Committee is meeting to review administrative reports, including a draft RFP for a Palace Theatre operator, a proposed moonlighting policy, charitable donations, and January 2022 tax and water receivables. The agenda is largely routine, with no public presentations or correspondence listed.

• Draft RFP for Palace Theatre operator (2022)
• Moonlighting policy review
• Charitable donations for local initiatives
• Tax receivables report for January 2022
• Water receivables report for January 2022

The Corporate Services Committee recommended that Council adopt the Moonlighting Policy and the Charitable Donations Policy, with staff directed to create programming for donations. The committee also adopted the agenda and previous minutes, and adjourned. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Recommended Council adopt the Moonlighting Policy (carried)
• Recommended Council adopt the Charitable Donations Policy and directed staff to create programming (carried)
• Adopted the agenda as presented (carried)
• Adopted the minutes of January 31, 2022 meeting (carried)

Community Services Committee

The Blind River Community Services Committee is meeting to discuss several community events and initiatives, including ideas for Earth Day 2022, the 2022 Summer Parade, the Huron Bass Tour 2022 fishing derby, and a presentation on social media use. The agenda also includes routine items such as adoption of previous minutes and declarations of conflict of interest.

• 2022 Earth Day ideas report
• 2022 Summer Parade report
• Huron Bass Tour 2022 and summer fishing derby reports
• Social media presentation
• Adoption of January 26, 2022 minutes

The Blind River Community Services Committee recommended to Council a month-long environmental focus in April for Earth Day 2022, and authorized the Blind River Figure Skating Club to organize a parade on July 9, 2022, with municipal staff support and fire department lead. Both motions were carried. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Recommended month-long environmental focus in April for Earth Day 2022 (carried)
• Recommended authorizing Blind River Figure Skating Club to host parade on July 9, 2022 (carried)
• Recommended municipal staff place and remove road barricades for parade (carried)
• Recommended Blind River Fire Department member act as parade lead (carried)

BRDC

The Blind River Development Corporation is meeting to review staff reports on 2022 goals and staff direction, strategic plan and economic development strategy updates, and the Community Activator Program Year II. The agenda also includes adoption of previous minutes and a closed session for land acquisition/disposition and personal matters.

• Review of BRDC 2022 Goals and staff direction (two parts)
• 2022 Budget-BRDC.pdf attached
• 2022 Strategic Plan and Economic Development Strategy updates
• Community Activator Program Year II (My Main Street Submission)
• Closed session: land acquisition/disposition and personal matters

The Blind River Development Corporation board approved its agenda and previous minutes, then authorized staff to pursue grants aligned with board goals and to begin projects in priority areas including housing, water/wastewater, infrastructure, tourism, and a new town hall. The board also directed administration to continue focusing on Council Vision Boards. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included a closed session for land and personnel matters.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Adopted minutes of February 10, 2022, as amended
• Authorized submission of grants that achieve vision board goals
• Requested staff commence projects in priority areas (e.g., housing, water/wastewater, tourism)
• Directed administration to continue focusing on Council Vision Boards
• Moved into closed session for land and personnel matters
• Resumed open session
• Adjourned at 5:04 p.m.

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council's regular meeting on February 22, 2022, includes a presentation from Habitat for Humanity, a report on 2022 budgeted transfers to reserve, and consideration of six by-laws covering a NOHFC agreement, fireworks regulation, repeal of a public auctions by-law, a Northern Ontario Resource Development Support Fund agreement, delegation of authority for the 2022 election, and a FedNor agreement for Marine Park. The meeting also includes a closed session for personnel, land, and other matters.

• By-Law #22-11: NOHFC Agreement
• By-Law #22-04: Fireworks By-Law
• By-Law #22-17: Repeal By-law 619 (Public Auctions)
• By-Law #22-18: Northern Ontario Resource Development Support Fund Agreement
• By-Law #22-20: FedNor Funding Agreement for Marine Park

Council approved the agenda, previous minutes, and budgeted transfers to reserves. Six by-laws were passed, covering a NOHFC agreement for Marine Park upgrades, a fireworks by-law, repealing a public auctions by-law, a Northern Ontario Resource Development Support Fund agreement, election delegation of authority, and a FedNor agreement for accessible Marine Park upgrades. A motion to authorize research on parking meter replacements was defeated. Council also approved a shared by-law enforcement MOU with Huron Shores and made committee appointments.

• Approved the agenda and Closed Meeting agenda as presented.
• Adopted the minutes of the Regular and Public Council Meetings of February 7, 2022.
• Approved the 2022 budgeted transfers to reserves.
• Defeated a motion to authorize research on parking meter replacements and consider two Tango metering units in the 2023 budget.
• Adopted the Blind River Health and Safety Program 2022.
• Authorized signing By-law #22-11 for a NOHFC agreement for Marine Park upgrades.
• Authorized signing By-law #22-04 to prohibit and regulate fireworks and pyrotechnic special effects.
• Authorized signing By-law #22-17 to repeal By-law 619 prohibiting private or public auctions.

Public Information Session

This is a public information session, not a decision-making meeting. Council will hear presentations from Community Services, Algoma Public Health, North Shore Power Group, Protective Services, and a Municipal Budget Update. No votes or formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Municipal Budget Presentation with 2022 budget update
• Algoma Public Health presentation on COVID-19 and the opioid crisis
• North Shore Power Group CEO and Chairman stakeholder reports
• Protective Services presentation titled '72 Hours'
• Community Services presentations (listed twice)

BRDC

The Blind River Development Corporation is meeting to review its 2022 goals, budget, and strategic plan, and to discuss staff direction. The agenda also includes a closed session regarding a potential land acquisition or disposition. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Review of BRDC 2022 Goals and staff direction
• 2022 Budget-BRDC review
• Blind River Strategic Plan and Economic Development Strategy 2018 review
• Closed session on proposed or pending land acquisition or disposition

Infrastructure Services Committee

The Blind River Infrastructure Services Committee is meeting to review the January 2022 Public Services Report and to discuss correspondence from the Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry about proposed regulatory changes for reusing excess soil at pits and quarries. The agenda also includes routine items such as adopting previous minutes and declarations of conflict of interest.

• Review of Public Services Report January 2022
• Correspondence from Ministry on proposed excess soil reuse regulatory changes
• Adoption of January 12, 2022 meeting minutes

Protective Services Committee

The Blind River Protective Services Committee is meeting to discuss several administrative reports, including the 2021 year in review, parking meter upgrades, the 2022 health and safety program, and firefighter certification. The committee will also consider a new fireworks by-law (By-Law #22-04) and a by-law to repeal By-law 619 regarding public auctions. Correspondence about fireworks from Kate Mitchell is also on the agenda.

• By-Law #22-04: Fireworks By-Law
• Repeal By-law 619 (Public Auctions)
• Parking meter upgrades (MacKay TANGO Pay and Display)
• 2021 Protective Services year in review
• Firefighter certification consultation

The Protective Services Committee reviewed reports and made recommendations to Council, including replacing downtown parking meters with Tango units in the 2023 budget, approving a new Fireworks By-Law, and repealing By-law 619 on public auctions. All motions were carried unanimously.

• Recommended Council authorize CAO/Clerk to look into replacing downtown parking meters (carried)
• Recommended two Tango metering units be considered in 2023 budget (carried)
• Recommended Council approve Fireworks By-Law #22-04 (carried)
• Recommended Council authorize Mayor and CAO/Clerk to sign by-law repealing By-law 619 on public auctions (carried)

Public Meeting - Planning

This is a public meeting of Town Council to consider three planning applications: one minor variance and two consents. The council will hear staff technical reports and any public input before deciding on the applications.

• Minor variance application V2022-001 for 9 Hamill's Point Road
• Consent application C2021-006 for 295 and 307 Woodward Ave
• Consent application C2021-005 for 238 Robb Road, with supporting letter from Eric and documentation from McLean

The Blind River Town Council held a public meeting to consider three planning applications: V2022-001 (9 Hamill's Point Road), C2021-006 (295 and 307 Woodward Ave), and C2021-005 (238 Robb Road). No public comments were received for any application. The meeting was procedural, with no decisions made; applications were only discussed.

• Approved agenda (22-029) (carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:22 p.m. (22-030) (carried)

Council Meeting

The Council is reviewing several administrative reports, including the final 2022 operating and capital budgets. Discussion items include various land applications, municipal policy updates, and new by-laws regarding gas tax agreements and user fees.

• By-Law #22-13: Gas Tax Agreement for public transportation
• By-Law #22-14: 2022 Municipal User Fees
• Severance Application: 238 Robb Road lot creation
• Lot Addition: 295 and 307 Woodward Avenue
• Minor Variance: 9 Hamill's Point Road

Council approved the 2022 capital and operating budgets, adopted multiple policies (cemetery vehicle access, iPad use, vacation election-year exemption, health spending account, accounts receivable, water/sewer billing, memorial bench), and authorized participation in the 2022 Amalgamated Tender. A motion to fund $60,000 in road improvements to Boom Camp Road was defeated, and a motion to request the province dissolve the Ontario Land Tribunal was also defeated. Several consent applications and a minor variance were approved.

• Approved 2022 Capital and Operating Budgets (carried)
• Defeated motion to allocate $60,000 for Boom Camp Road improvements (defeated)
• Defeated motion to request dissolution of Ontario Land Tribunal (defeated)
• Granted provisional consent for lot creation at 238 Robb Road (carried)
• Granted provisional consent for lot addition at 295 Woodward Ave (carried)
• Granted minor variance at 9 Hamill's Point Road (carried)
• Authorized participation in 2022 Amalgamated Tender (carried)
• Authorized single-sourcing webpage upgrade to eSolutions Group (carried)

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The Blind River Corporate Services Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially adopt several administrative policies, including cemetery seasonal vehicle access, iPad use, vacation carryover in election years, health spending accounts, accounts receivable billing and collection, water and sewer billing revisions, and a 2022 memorial bench policy. No public presentations or correspondence items are listed.

• Cemetery seasonal vehicle access policy
• iPad use policy
• Vacation carryover exemption in election year
• Health spending account policy
• Accounts receivable billing and collection policy

The Corporate Services Committee reviewed and recommended that Council adopt seven policies, including a Cemetery Seasonal Vehicle Access Policy, iPad Use Policy, Vacation Policy exemption for election years, Health Spending Account Policy, Accounts Receivable Billing/Collection Policy, a revised Water and Sewer Billing/Collection Policy, and a Memorial Bench Policy. All recommendations were carried unanimously. The committee also adopted the previous meeting's minutes and the agenda.

• Recommended Cemetery Seasonal Vehicle Access Policy to Council (carried)
• Recommended iPad Use Policy to Council (carried)
• Recommended Vacation Policy - Exemption in an Election Year to Council (carried)
• Recommended Health Spending Account Policy to Council (carried)
• Recommended Accounts Receivable Billing/Collection Policy to Council (carried)
• Recommended revised Water and Sewer Billing/Collection Policy to Council (carried)
• Recommended Memorial Bench Policy to Council (carried)
• Adopted minutes of November 29, 2021 meeting (carried)

Special Council Meeting

This is a special council meeting focused on the draft 2022 municipal user fees and the draft 2022 capital and operating budgets. The treasurer will present these items, followed by a question-and-answer period limited to budget and user fee topics. No decisions are listed on the agenda; it is a public input session.

• Draft 2022 Municipal User Fees presentation
• Draft 2022 Capital and Operating Budgets presentation
• Public Q&A on budget and user fees only

The special council meeting was procedural, with no substantive decisions made. Council approved the agenda and adjourned. The treasurer presented drafts of the 2022 municipal user fees and capital/operating budgets, but no action was taken on them.

• Approved agenda as presented (22-027)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:27 p.m. (22-028)

Community Services Committee

The Blind River Community Services Committee is meeting to discuss routine administrative items, including adopting previous minutes and receiving reports from the Director of Facilities & Community Services. Key topics include a proposed memorial bench policy, charitable donations, the 2022 Year of the Garden proclamation, and the 2022 Ontario Ice Fishing Derby. No decisions are noted in the agenda; items are listed for discussion.

• Review of draft Memorial Seating Policy and commemorative bench brochure/application
• Report on charitable donations for local initiatives
• Discussion of 2022 Year of the Garden proclamation
• Correspondence regarding Mobilize for Earth Day 2022
• Addendum on 2022 Ontario Ice Fishing Derby

The Blind River Community Services Committee accepted a report on charitable donations and directed administration to begin drafting a policy and procedure. It also recommended that Council share a 2022 Year of the Garden proclamation and allow the Horticultural Society to plant in designated areas after capital projects. Staff were asked to bring a list of Earth Day activities to the next meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Accepted agenda as presented
• Adopted minutes of November 24, 2021 meeting
• Directed administration to draft a donation policy and procedure
• Recommended Council share 2022 Year of the Garden proclamation
• Directed staff to bring Earth Day activity list to next meeting

Special Council Meeting

This is a special council meeting with a short agenda. Council will receive an administrative report on the Marine Park 2022 project, then enter closed session to discuss personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees. After closed session, council will report on it and consider a confirming by-law.

• Administrative report on Marine Park 2022 project
• Closed session on personnel matters
• Report on closed session including letter about MILP loan repayment (CMHC 20119590)
• Confirming by-law 22-10

Council approved $230,000 in funding for the 2022 Marine Park Updates project, drawing $175,000 from Facilities Reserves and $55,000 from Future Projects Reserves, and authorized administration to begin the project. Council also authorized the CAO/Clerk to wire $4 million received from NSPG to CMHC and to transfer future NSPG funds as received. The meeting included a closed session for personal matters about an identifiable individual, with no decisions reported from that session.

• Approved $230,000 for 2022 Marine Park Updates project ($175,000 from Facilities Reserves, $55,000 from Future Projects Reserves)
• Authorized administration to commence the 2022 Marine Park Updates project
• Authorized CAO/Clerk to wire $4 million from NSPG to CMHC and request confirmation of receipt
• Authorized CAO/Clerk to transfer future NSPG funds to CMHC as received
• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved minutes via By-law #22-10

Budget Committee

The Blind River Budget Committee is meeting to review the 2022 draft municipal user fees and revisions to the 2022 draft operating and capital budgets. They will also hear about a denied Ontario Trillium Foundation grant application. The meeting includes standard procedural items like adopting previous minutes.

• Review of 2022 Draft Municipal User Fees, including water, community services, protective services, administration, and public services fees
• Revisions to 2022 Draft Operating and Capital Budgets, including quotes for Seniors Centre roof and Library windows
• Ontario Trillium Foundation Community Building Fund Capital Stream application (ID CC117276) funding decision - grant denial

The Budget Committee voted to recommend that Council approve the 2022 Municipal User Fees and the 2022 Capital and Operating Budgets. It also recommended reallocating $6,982 from the 2020 APH refund to offset the 2022 increase. All motions were carried unanimously.

• Recommended 2022 Municipal User Fees to Council (carried)
• Recommended reallocating $6,982 from 2020 APH refund to offset 2022 increase (carried)
• Recommended 2022 Capital and Operating Budgets to Council (carried)

Infrastructure Services Committee

The Blind River Infrastructure Services Committee is meeting to review the agenda, adopt previous minutes, and discuss one administrative report on Woodward Ave paving costs. No decisions are listed on the agenda; the meeting is primarily procedural with a single substantive item for discussion.

• Administrative report: Director of Public Services on Woodward Ave Paving
• Adoption of previous minutes from Dec 08, 2021 meeting

The Infrastructure Services Committee approved reducing liquidated damages owed by Beamish Construction to the Town of Blind River from $27,000 to $25,106.60 for the Woodward Avenue Paving and Sidewalk Replacement project. The reduction was granted due to weather delays and staffing shortages, with the amount covering additional inspection costs incurred by Tulloch Engineering. The motion was carried.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Adopted minutes of December 8, 2021
• Approved reduction of liquidated damages from $27,000 to $25,106.60 for Beamish Construction (carried)

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council is holding its regular meeting on January 10, 2022, with a full agenda of administrative reports, correspondence, and by-laws. Key items include adopting several by-laws related to temporary borrowing, interim tax rates, fireworks, an orthophotography project, marina upgrades, FedNor funding, and a deeming by-law for properties on Hudson Street. The meeting also includes a closed session for items such as land acquisition/disposition, labour relations, and delegations.

• By-Law #22-02: Temporary Borrowing 2022
• By-Law #22-03: Interim Tax Rates 2022
• By-Law #22-04: Fireworks By-Law
• By-Law #22-06: Blind River Marina Upgrades (Beamish Construction)
• By-Law #22-08: Deeming By-law for 78 and 80 Hudson Street

Council approved several by-laws including temporary borrowing, interim tax rates, a marina upgrades agreement with Beamish Construction, a FedNor funding agreement, and a deeming by-law for 78 and 80 Hudson Street. The fireworks by-law was deferred. Council also directed the CAO to prepare a report on opening Boom Camp Road to winter traffic.

• Approved By-law #22-02 for temporary borrowing (carried)
• Approved By-law #22-03 for interim tax rates 2022 (carried)
• Deferred By-law #22-04 fireworks by-law
• Approved By-law #22-05 for orthophotography agreement (carried)
• Approved By-law #22-06 for marina upgrades with Beamish Construction (carried)
• Approved By-law #22-07 for FedNor funding agreement (carried)
• Approved By-law #22-08 deeming by-law for 78 and 80 Hudson Street (carried)
• Directed CAO to prepare report on Boom Camp Road winter access (carried)

Special Council Meeting

This is a special council meeting with a brief agenda. Council will receive an administrative report on COVID-19 updates and operational impacts from provincial orders, then move into a closed session for a personnel matter. The meeting also includes routine items: approving the agenda, a confirming by-law, and adjournment.

• Administrative report: CAO on COVID-19 updates and operations due to provincial orders
• Closed session item: personnel
• Confirming by-law 22-01

The council met virtually and received an update on COVID-19 impacts, noting the arena will be closed until January 26, 2022, pending provincial orders. Council then entered closed session to discuss personnel matters, and after resuming, adopted the meeting minutes. No substantive decisions were made beyond procedural approvals.

• Approved agenda as presented (22-001)
• Moved into closed session for personnel matters (22-002)
• Resumed open meeting (22-003)
• Authorized signing of by-law to adopt meeting minutes (22-004)
• Adjourned meeting (22-005)