Blind River public meetings in 2024

BRDC

The Blind River Development Corporation is meeting to adopt previous minutes, hear a staff report on 2024 project achievements, and consider nominees for the EDCO 2025 organization. The agenda also includes correspondence and new business items.

• Adoption of November 21, 2024 meeting minutes
• Staff report: BRDC Project Achievements 2024
• Staff report: EDCO 2025 nominees

The Blind River Development Corporation approved up to $6,000 in the 2025 budget for Director K. Bittner and CAO K. Scott to attend the 2025 EDCO Training Conference and Awards Gala in Toronto. The board also adopted the minutes of the November 21, 2024 meeting as amended. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and adjourned at 4:15 p.m.

• Approved up to $6,000 for EDCO conference attendance (carried)
• Adopted November 21, 2024 minutes as amended (carried)

Budget Committee

The Blind River Budget Committee is meeting on December 16, 2024. The agenda document contains no specific items, proposals, or decisions. No contracts, rezoning, or ordinance items are detailed. The meeting appears to be procedural only.

Special Council Meeting - Finance

The Town Council will meet for a special session regarding finance. The Treasurer is scheduled to present the Town of Blind River Asset Management Plan 2024, which includes various departmental strategies.

• Presentation of the Enterprise Asset Management Plan 2024
• Transportation Asset Management Plan
• Drinking Water System Asset Management Plan
• Waste Water System Asset Management Plan
• Stormwater, Fleet, Building, Fire, and Parks and Recreation Asset Management Plans

At a special finance meeting on December 16, 2024, Blind River council adopted the 2024 Asset Management Plan, granted pre-budget approval for 12 golf carts for Huron Pines Golf & Country Club at a total cost of $105,540, and approved emergency replacement of both wastewater treatment plant blowers with costs not to exceed $200,000, funded from the Wastewater Reserve if an FCM grant is not secured. Council also entered closed session to discuss litigation, then authorized signing of by-law 24-80 to adopt the December 9, 2024 minutes.

• Adopted Town of Blind River Asset Management Plan 2024 (carried)
• Approved pre-budget purchase of 12 golf carts for Huron Pines Golf & Country Club at $105,540 (carried)
• Approved replacement of both WWTP blowers, cost not to exceed $200,000, funded from Wastewater Reserve if FCM grant fails (carried)
• Entered closed session at 6:22 p.m. for litigation matters (carried)
• Resumed open meeting at 6:49 p.m. (carried)
• Authorized Mayor and CAO/Clerk to sign By-law 24-80 adopting December 9, 2024 minutes (carried)

Community Services Committee

The Community Services Committee is meeting to review reports from the Director of Facilities and Community Services. The discussion focuses on the 'December in Blind River' initiative and a 2024 wrap-up guide.

• Report on 'December in Blind River'
• December 2024 Wrap Up Guide
• 2024 Community Services Monthly Report

Infrastructure Services Committee

The Infrastructure Services Committee is meeting to review the 2024-2025 Winter Maintenance Plan and a public services report. The body will also receive status updates on the new water intake and Huron Street reconstruction.

• Winter Maintenance Plan for the 2024-2025 Season
• New Water Intake and Huron Street Reconstruction weekly status reports from Tulloch Engineering
• Public Services Report dated December 11, 2024

The Infrastructure Services Committee adopted the minutes from November 13, 2024, and recommended that Council adopt the 2024/25 Winter Maintenance Plan as presented. The committee also reviewed the Public Services Report and the New Water Intake & Huron Street Reconstruction status report. Discussions were held on a possible pilot for rural garbage collection and a regular maintenance schedule for Boom Camp Road, but no decisions were made on these items.

• Adopted minutes of November 13, 2024 (moved by S. Hagman)
• Recommended Council adopt 2024/25 Winter Maintenance Plan (carried)

Water and Wastewater Committee

The committee will meet to review previous minutes and receive public presentations. Scheduled presenters include PUC, Tulloch Engineering, and Algoma Public Health.

• PUC Presentation
• Tulloch Engineering presentation
• Algoma Public Health presentation
• Adoption of September 11, 2024 meeting minutes

The Blind River Water and Wastewater Committee met on December 11, 2024, and adopted the minutes from the September 11, 2024 meeting. The meeting included presentations from PUC Services, Tulloch Engineering, and Algoma Public Health, but no substantive decisions were made beyond the minutes adoption and adjournment.

• Adopted September 11, 2024 meeting minutes (carried)
• Adjourned at 10:20 a.m. (carried)

Protective Services Committee

The Blind River Protective Services Committee is scheduled to meet on December 10, 2024. The agenda package is available for viewing.

• Meeting scheduled for Dec 10, 2024
• Agenda package available for viewing

Public Meeting - Planning

Town Council is holding a public meeting to discuss three planning applications. The body will review requests for title validation and a minor variance for specific properties.

• Application for Validation of Title for 48 Hamilton Avenue (VT2024-001)
• Application for Validation of Title for 48 Hamilton Avenue (VT2024-002)
• Application for Minor Variance for 84 Indiana Avenue (V2024-008)

Council held a public meeting to address three planning applications, all of which were supported by the planner and raised no public concerns. Two applications (VT2024-001 and VT2024-002) for 48 Hamilton Avenue sought to correct title errors from past transfers. The third (V2024-008) for 84 Indiana Avenue was a variance request for a property divested to ADSAB, found compliant with the Planning Act and zoning. No formal votes were recorded; the meeting adjourned at 5:34 p.m.

• Validated title correction for 48 Hamilton Avenue (VT2024-001)
• Validated title correction for 48 Hamilton Avenue (VT2024-002)
• Approved variance for 84 Indiana Avenue (V2024-008)

Council Meeting

This regular meeting includes consideration of a by-law to reduce council size from seven to five members, adoption of 2025 user fees, a waste management contract bid, and several planning applications. The council will also discuss the More Homes Built Faster Act, photo radar enforcement, and closed session items regarding labour relations and litigation.

• By-Law #24-78: Council composition reduction from 7 to 5 members
• By-Law #24-76: 2025 User Fees
• Minor variance application for 84 Indiana Avenue
• Validation of title application for 48 Hamilton Avenue
• Waste management contract bid acceptance

Blind River Council approved a $2,400,433.01 five-year waste collection and disposal contract with GFL Environmental Inc., granted a minor variance for a townhouse development at 84 Indiana Avenue, and approved a validation of title for 48 Hamilton Avenue. Council also approved the 2025 user fees, a mutual aid agreement with Cameco Corporation, and several other administrative items. A by-law to reduce the number of council members for the 2026 election was defeated.

• Approved $2,400,433.01 waste collection contract with GFL Environmental Inc. (carried)
• Granted minor variance for two five-unit townhouses at 84 Indiana Avenue (carried)
• Granted provisional consent for Certificate of Validation at 48 Hamilton Avenue (carried)
• Approved 2025 user fees additions (carried)
• Authorized CAO/Clerk to sign Cameco Corporation MOU for emergency response (carried)
• Restricted access to shared waste bins at five disposal sites (carried)
• Rescinded Mutual Aid By-Law 15-73 with Township of North Shore (carried)
• Defeated By-Law 24-78 to reduce council composition for 2026 election (defeated)

Special Council Meeting

The Blind River Town Council will consider confirming By-Law 24-75. No other substantive items are listed. The meeting includes standard procedural items such as declarations of interest and a closed session.

• Confirm By-Law 24-75 (attachment: 24-75 Confirming By-Law December 3'24.pdf)

The special meeting was largely procedural: Council entered closed session to discuss labour relations or employee negotiations, then resumed open session and passed a confirming by-law (24-75) to formalize the meeting's actions. No substantive decisions were made in open session.

• Entered closed session for labour relations/employee negotiations (carried)
• Resumed open session at 4:58 p.m. (carried)
• Authorized signing of By-law #24-75 (carried)
• Adjourned at 5:58 p.m. (carried)

Special Council Meeting

This special meeting consists primarily of a closed session for labour relations or employee negotiations. The only public business is the adoption of Confirming By-law 24-74. No other substantive decisions or discussions are scheduled.

• Closed session under Section 3.1 for labour relations/employee negotiations
• Confirming By-law 24-74 (December 2, 2024)

The special meeting was largely procedural: council entered closed session to discuss labour relations or employee negotiations, then returned to open session and adopted the minutes of the meeting. No substantive decisions were made in open session.

• Entered closed session for labour relations discussion (carried)
• Resumed open session at 5:30 p.m. (carried)
• Adopted By-law #24-74 to confirm the minutes of the special meeting (carried)
• Adjourned at 5:31 p.m. (carried)

Public Information Session

The Town Council is holding a public meeting to receive a presentation from the Treasurer on proposed 2025 municipal user fees. Attachments include draft fee schedules, an updated landfill expansion cost estimate, and a water distribution system expansion concept cost estimate. No decisions are scheduled; the session is for information and public input.

• Presentation on 2025 Municipal User Fees including draft schedules
• Updated Landfill Expansion Cost Estimate
• Draft Blind River water distribution system expansion concept cost estimate
• Proposed 2025 Municipal User Fees document for public review

The meeting was a public information session where the treasurer presented the proposed User Fees for 2025. No decisions were made; the council adjourned without voting on the proposal.

• Adjourned public meeting at 6:27 p.m. (moved by J. Dunbar, seconded by P. Summers)

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The Blind River Corporate Services Committee will discuss pre-zoning municipally owned lands, governance restructuring, and the voting method for the 2026 municipal and school board election. Financial reports on taxes and water receivables as of September 2024 will be reviewed. New reserves for the Town Hall and the Public Works salt/sand storage facility are proposed, along with an asset management update.

• Pre-zoning of municipally owned lands
• Governance restructuring opportunity
• 2026 municipal and school board election voting method
• Taxes receivable as of September 30, 2024
• New reserves for Town Hall and PW salt/sand storage facility

The Corporate Services Committee made several recommendations to Council, including authorizing administration to implement the 2021 Tulloch Engineering Pre-Zoning report with fees added to lot sale prices, reducing the number of Council members for the 2026 election, approving internet voting for the 2026 municipal and school board election, and creating new reserves for Town Hall and PW Storage Facility with transfers from the Facilities Reserve. All motions were carried unanimously.

• Recommended pre-zoning of municipally owned lands per 2021 Tulloch report (carried)
• Recommended reducing Council members for 2026 election (carried)
• Approved internet voting for 2026 election (carried)
• Recommended creating Town Hall Reserve with $388,000 transfer (carried)
• Recommended creating PW Storage Facility Reserve with $300,000 transfer (carried)
• Adopted minutes of September 24, 2024 (carried)

BRDC

The Blind River Development Corporation will meet to review and potentially approve the 2023 audited financial statements presented by the treasurer. Other agenda items include adoption of previous meeting minutes and correspondence for action and information. The meeting is largely procedural.

• Review of 2023 audited financial statements by the treasurer

The Blind River Development Corporation Board accepted the 2023 Audited Financial Statements as presented. Treasurer S. Dent reported a total of $32,342 in Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) revenue to date. Councillor B.A. Dunbar requested a draft 2025 budget and a Year-to-Date Variance report for the next meeting.

• Adopted September 19, 2024 minutes (Carried)
• Accepted 2023 Audited Financial Statements (Carried)
• Reported MAT revenue to date as $32,342
• Requested draft 2025 budget and YTD Variance report for December meeting

Budget Committee

The Blind River Budget Committee will review proposed 2025 municipal user fees and fee schedules, consider a recreation fee comparison study, and receive an updated cost estimate for the landfill expansion project. A resolution to adopt the 2025 proposed user fees is also on the agenda.

• Proposed 2025 Municipal User Fees (Treasurer report)
• Draft Schedules 2025 Municipal User Fees
• Recreation Fee Comparisons report
• Updated Landfill Expansion Cost Estimate including draft concept cost estimate
• 2025 Proposed Municipal User Fees Resolution

The Blind River Budget Committee approved the October 7, 2024 minutes, accepted the Recreation Fees Report, and recommended adopting Module 2 season fees for leagues in 2025. The committee also recommended Option 3 for funding the landfill expansion with a completion target of 2027, and recommended accepting the proposed 2025 Municipal User Fees while scheduling a public meeting for December 2.

• Adopted October 7, 2024 minutes (CARRIED)
• Accepted Recreation Fees Report and recommended Module 2 one-time season fees (Youth $150/season, Adult $250/season) for 2025 (CARRIED)
• Recommended Option 3 for funding the Blind River Landfill expansion with completion scheduled for 2027 (CARRIED)
• Recommended accepting proposed 2025 Municipal User Fees and scheduled a public meeting for December 2 at 6:00 pm (CARRIED)
• Adjourned the meeting at 5:40 p.m. (CARRIED)

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council will consider adopting by-laws regarding a 9-1-1 answering point agreement and a deeming by-law for Nadon Avenue. The meeting also includes updates on administrative projects, the Santa Claus Parade, and funding for Handi Transit and the Mobile Crisis Response Team.

• By-Law #24-70: Agreement for OPP Primary Public Safety Answering Point (9-1-1)
• By-Law #24-71: Deeming By-law for 29 and 27 Nadon Avenue
• By-Law #24-72: Memorandum of Understanding with Blind River Sno Riders
• Handi Transit Bus Purchase and Victim Support Grant funding
• Mobile Crisis Response Team Enhancement Grant

Council authorized a feasibility study for green burials at Hillside Cemetery, directing the CAO/Clerk to allocate resources and bring the matter to the budget committee for up to $50,000. They also directed the budget committee to review a Tulloch Engineering quote ($8,000-$10,000) for tiny homes rezoning, and approved the purchase of a Handi-Transit bus for the 2025 capital list. Several by-laws were passed, including for 9-1-1 PSAP services, land consolidation at Nadon Avenue, and a Memorandum of Understanding with the Blind River Sno Riders. The meeting included a closed session for personnel and legal matters, and Council accepted the resignation of K. Bittner from the North Channel Marine Tourism Council.

• Approved green burial feasibility study, up to $50,000 (carried)
• Directed budget committee to review Tulloch Engineering quote for tiny homes rezoning (carried)
• Authorized Handi-Transit bus purchase, added to 2025 capital list (carried)
• Passed By-law #24-70 for 9-1-1 PSAP services with OPP (carried)
• Passed By-law #24-71 for land consolidation at 29 & 27 Nadon Avenue (carried)
• Passed By-law #24-72 for MOU with Blind River Sno Riders (carried)
• Approved Santa Claus Parade road closures and $250 payment (carried)
• Accepted resignation of K. Bittner from North Channel Marine Tourism Council (carried)

Community Services Committee

The Community Services Committee of Blind River, Ontario, is meeting on November 14, 2024. The provided agenda contains only procedural boilerplate and embedded content with no detailed items such as rezonings, contracts, or ordinances. No decisions or discussions are identifiable from the agenda text.

Infrastructure Services Committee

The Blind River Infrastructure Services Committee will discuss a proposed bylaw to enhance diversion of recyclable materials, proposed changes to excess soil regulation, and updates on waste disposal issues in shared collection areas. The committee will also receive project updates from Tulloch Engineering on the New Water Intake and Huron Street Reconstruction.

• Proposed bylaw supporting enhanced diversion of recyclable materials
• Proposed changes to excess soil regulation
• Update on waste disposal issues with shared collection areas
• Project update on New Water Intake and Huron Street Reconstruction

The committee recommended restricting access to shared waste bins at five disposal sites to residents only, with removal if non-compliance persists. It also approved developing a by-law to enhance recyclable material diversion. Other reports were reviewed without formal decisions.

• Recommended restricting shared bin access at Granary Lake Road, High Road, Eastman Subdivision, Bear Head Lake Road, and Matinenda Landing (carried)
• Approved committing Public Services resources to develop a by-law for enhanced recyclable diversion (carried)
• Adopted minutes of October 9, 2024 (carried)

Protective Services Committee

The Protective Services Committee is meeting to discuss administrative reports from September and October 2024. The body will also consider requests to rescind and amend specific mutual aid by-laws.

• Request to rescind By-Law 15-73 Mutual Aid - Twp of North Shore
• Request to review and amend By-Law 1897-2003 Mutual Aid Agreement - Fire Protection Schedule A
• Director of Protective Services report for September 2024
• Director of Protective Services report for October 2024

The Protective Services Committee recommended Council rescind By-Law 15-73 (mutual aid with Township of North Shore) and approve amendments to By-Law 1897-2003 (mutual aid fire protection Schedule A). The committee also accepted the Director's reports for September and October 2024. All motions carried unanimously.

• Adopted minutes of September 10, 2024 (carried)
• Accepted Director's report for September 2024 (carried)
• Accepted Director's report for October 2024 (carried)
• Recommended Council rescind By-Law 15-73 mutual aid with Township of North Shore (carried)
• Recommended Council approve amendments to By-Law 1897-2003 Schedule A (carried)

Special Council Meeting - Finance

This special meeting focuses on financial matters. Council will hear a presentation from KPMG regarding the 2023 audited financial statements and consider the treasurer's report on final 2023 reserve transfers.

• Public presentation by KPMG on 2023 audited financial statements
• Administrative report from treasurer on 2023 final reserve transfers
• Consideration of reserve transfer policy (Operating Surplus Deficit Policy)

Blind River council accepted the 2023 audited financial statements as presented by KPMG. Council also approved final 2023 reserve transfers, with $1,225,138.66 transferred into reserves and $682,347.74 transferred out. The meeting was procedural, with no other substantive decisions.

• Accepted 2023 audited financial statements (carried)
• Approved final 2023 reserve transfers: $1,225,138.66 in, $682,347.74 out (carried)
• Authorized signing of By-Law #24-69 to adopt the meeting minutes (carried)

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The Blind River Corporate Services Committee will review pre-zoning of municipally owned lands and financial reports on taxes and water receivables for September 2024. The meeting will also address a request from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing for the 2023 Financial Information Return.

• Pre-zoning of municipally owned lands
• Taxes receivable report for September 2024
• Water receivables report for September 2024
• Financial Information Return request from Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
• Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund FIR deadline extension from Ministry of Finance

Public Meeting - Planning

The Town Council will meet on Monday, October 21, 2024. The agenda includes a planning application V2024-007 for a minor variance at 333 Leisure Bay Road. Council will review the attached technical report for the application. The meeting will end with a resolution to adjourn.

• Minor variance application V2024-007 for 333 Leisure Bay Road (technical report attached)

The meeting was a public planning session to consider application V2024-007 for 333 Leisure Bay Road. No comments were received, and no decision was made; the meeting adjourned without further action.

• Adjourned public meeting at 5:39 p.m. (carried)

Council Meeting

The Town Council will discuss several new by-laws, including a new Entrance By-Law and a final reading of the Enbridge Gas Inc. franchise agreement. The meeting also includes a minor variance application for 333 Leisure Bay Road and a request to waive the November 15 paving prohibition.

• By-Law #24-67: New Entrance By-Law and Driveway Culvert Policy
• By-Law #24-11: Final reading of Enbridge Gas Inc. Franchise Agreement
• Minor Variance application V2024-007 for 333 Leisure Bay Road
• Request to waive policy prohibiting paving after November 15
• Deeming applications for 39 and 37 West Street, 8 Percell, 64 and 62 Youngfox, and 7 and 5 Mountain Glen

Blind River Town Council voted 5-1 to defeat a resolution supporting the Municipality of Wawa's call for MPP Michael Mantha to resign from his Algoma-Manitoulin seat. Council approved several other items, including a minor variance at 333 Leisure Bay Road, a group health benefits renewal at $22,680.49 monthly, $11,450 from the Facilities Reserve for Community Centre guard rails, and multiple by-laws. Council also entered closed session at 7:17 p.m. and resumed at 8:01 p.m., then appointed Julie Strom to the Property Standards Committee.

• Defeated resolution supporting Wawa's call for MPP Michael Mantha to resign (1 yea, 5 nay)
• Approved minor variance at 333 Leisure Bay Road for a 768 sq. ft. home addition
• Authorized CAO/Clerk to override Policy 4.1 for paving past November 15 on the Huron Hill Project
• Approved group health benefits renewal with Equitable Health Connector at $22,680.49 monthly
• Approved $11,450 from Facilities Reserve for Community Centre guard rail replacement
• Approved road closures for the 2025 Witches Dance on October 4, 2025
• Approved agreement with Service Line Warranties of Canada for water and sewer warranty program
• Appointed Julie Strom to the Property Standards Committee

BRDC

The provided agenda contains only procedural software placeholders and boilerplate text. There are no specific decisions, proposals, or discussion items listed.

Community Services Committee

The Blind River Community Services Committee will consider several updates, including the Vyrn Peterson Pavilion, the Sidock Gazebo project, the Healthy Aging Fair, and the Blind River Pickleball Club's 2025 plans. A key item is the submission of a grant application for the Community Centre Rejuvenation project slated for 2025. The meeting also includes routine reports and public presentations.

• Vyrn Peterson Pavilion update
• Sidock Gazebo project update
• Healthy Aging Fair summary
• Blind River Pickleball Club 2025 planning
• Community Centre Rejuvenation 2025 grant submission

The Blind River Community Services Committee accepted the Healthy Aging Fair report and recommended Council create a dedicated account line in the 2025 Operating Budget. The committee also deferred the Blind River Pickleball Club 2025 planning topic to the Budget Committee. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural.

• Adopted minutes of September 12, 2024 meeting (carried)
• Accepted Healthy Aging Fair Blind River report (carried)
• Recommended Council create 'Healthy Aging Fair' account line in 2025 Operating Budget (carried)
• Deferred Blind River Pickleball Club 2025 planning to Budget Committee (carried)

Infrastructure Services Committee

The Blind River Infrastructure Services Committee will meet on October 9, 2024 to hear public presentations and review several administrative reports. The agenda includes a review of the revised Driveway Culvert Policy 4.2 and the introduction of Entrance By‑Law 24‑XXXX. The committee will also receive weekly status reports on Huron Avenue from Tulloch Engineering and a landfill operations briefing from Kresin Engineering. No decisions are recorded in the agenda.

• Review of Driveway Culvert Policy 4.2 revision (draft attached)
• Introduction of Entrance By‑Law 24‑XXXX (draft attached)
• Tulloch Engineering weekly status reports for Huron Avenue (reports dated 20240908, 20240923, 20240927)
• Kresin Engineering landfill operations meeting agenda (dated 04 Oct 2024)
• Public Services Report – October 9, 2024 (attached)

The Infrastructure Services Committee recommended that council adopt the Entrance By-law 24-XXX and revise the Driveway Culvert Policy 4.2. The committee also reviewed reports on public services, the Huron Avenue project, landfill operations, and a project update list. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Recommended adoption of Entrance By-law 24-XXX and revision of Driveway Culvert Policy 4.2 (carried)
• Adopted minutes of September 11, 2024 (carried)

Protective Services Committee

The Protective Services Committee agenda for October 8, 2024 contains no listed items. It appears to consist only of procedural placeholders and no decisions, proposals, or discussions are detailed.

Budget Committee

The Blind River Budget Committee will review the 2025 Operating Budget and proposed municipal user fees. The meeting includes updates on budget variances, software upgrades, and various administrative reports.

• Review of 2025 Operating Budget and proposed user fees
• Budget increase for Cloudpermit E-Permitting system
• Budget increase for Cemetery Software
• Report on Photo Radar Speed Enforcement
• Discussion on Landfill Waste Diversion through wood shredding

The Budget Committee approved several 2025 budget increases, including funding for e-permitting software, FOI software, and a landfill wood-shredding program. Several other items, including proposed municipal user fees and compensation reviews, were deferred for further consideration. The committee also updated the council conference budget and approved funding for a Handi-bus service.

• Approved 2025 council conference budget adjustments
• Approved $5,500 increase for protective services 4S software
• Approved $17,800 for Cloudpermit e-permitting implementation
• Approved $6,105 for FOI Assist software
• Approved $25,000 annual budget for landfill wood-shredding program
• Approved $10,000 for Shirvon Park environmental study (6-0)
• Deferred 2025 municipal user fees to November 4 public meeting
• Deferred compensation and pay equity review

BRDC

The Blind River Development Corporation will meet to discuss a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land. This item is scheduled for a closed session.

• Closed session regarding an offer to purchase land

The Blind River Development Corporation board met on October 2, 2024, and went into closed session to discuss a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land. No substantive decisions were made in open session; the meeting was procedural, covering only the closed session, new business, and adjournment.

• Moved into closed session to discuss land acquisition/disposition (carried)
• Resumed open meeting at 4:46 p.m. (carried)
• Adjourned at 4:46 p.m. (carried)

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The Blind River Corporate Services Committee will discuss several administrative items, including a procedural by‑law amendment, an amendment to the Signing Authorities by‑law, and the AMO‑LAS Water & Sewer Warranty Program. The meeting will also cover updates on taxes receivable for August 2024, water receivables for August 2024, and a grant application update.

• Procedural By‑law Amendment
• Signing Authorities By‑law Amendment
• AMO‑LAS Water & Sewer Warranty Program
• Taxes Receivable – August 2024
• Water Receivables – August 2024

The Corporate Services Committee recommended Council adopt a procedural by-law amendment (Policy 1.2.16) outlining how correspondence from municipalities and boards is reported to members, and recommended amending By-Law 22-58 on signing authorities to cover absences of both Mayor and Deputy Mayor. The committee also recommended the Town enter an agreement with Service Line Warranties of Canada, Inc. to offer a water and sewer warranty program to residents. All three recommendations were carried unanimously.

• Recommended procedural by-law amendment (Policy 1.2.16) for correspondence handling (carried)
• Recommended signing authorities by-law amendment (By-Law 22-58) (carried)
• Recommended agreement with Service Line Warranties of Canada, Inc. for water/sewer warranty program (carried)

BRDC

The Blind River Development Corporation is meeting to review corporation updates and the September 2024 budget. The body will also discuss a property listing on Causley Street and a land purchase offer in a closed session.

• Causley Street Listing
• BRDC Budget Update September 2024
• Resignation and election of directors
• Closed session regarding an offer to purchase land

The Blind River Development Corporation board met on September 19, 2024, and adopted the minutes from its March 21, 2024 meeting. The board also held a closed session to discuss a proposed or pending land acquisition or disposition, then resumed open meeting. No other substantive decisions were made; the October 17 meeting was cancelled due to a scheduling conflict.

• Adopted minutes of March 21, 2024 meeting (carried)
• Entered closed session at 4:10 p.m. to discuss land acquisition/disposition (carried)
• Resumed open meeting at 4:20 p.m. (carried)
• Adjourned at 4:30 p.m. (carried)

Council Meeting

The Blind River Town Council is meeting to discuss administrative reports, public presentations, and several proposed by-laws. Key items include the regulation of short-term rentals and updates to municipal user fees.

• By-Law #24-60 to license, regulate, and govern short-term rentals
• By-Law #24-57 to establish municipal user fees for 2024
• By-Law #24-58 and #24-59 to amend Fire Department and Firearms by-laws
• Proposed budget increase for aggregate crushing operations
• Discussion on photo radar speed enforcement and lithium-ion battery regulations

Blind River Council passed four by-laws, including a new short-term rental licensing and regulation by-law, and approved renaming the outdoor rink to 'The Bud MacIver Outdoor Rink'. Council also approved a $23,149.80 transfer for gravel crushing, supported photo radar for Causley Street in the 2025 budget, and hired seven volunteer firefighters.

• Approved By-law #24-60 to license, regulate and govern short-term rentals (carried)
• Approved renaming the Blind River Outdoor Rink to 'The Bud MacIver Outdoor Rink' (carried)
• Approved transfer of $23,149.80 from reserve to the 2024 Gravel Crushing Project (carried)
• Recommended Budget Committee consider photo radar for Causley Street in 2025 budget (carried)
• Supported resolution calling for regulations on non-OEM/ULC certified lithium-ion batteries (carried)
• Supported Stirling-Rawdon's request to amend Public Sector Salary Disclosure Act for inflation (carried)
• Supported Russell Township's request to update Municipal Elections Act (carried)
• Authorized hiring of seven volunteer firefighters (carried)

Community Services Committee

The Community Services Committee will review several administrative reports from the Director of Facilities and Community Services. Discussions include updates on the Visitor's Centre, Lake Matinenda Landing, and MTO sessions for seniors.

• Industry feature for Visitor's Centre
• Lake Matinenda Landing Report
• Seniors MTO Sessions in Blind River
• Rural 2 Rural report
• 2024 upcoming projects overview

The Blind River Community Services Committee met on September 12, 2024, and adopted the minutes from the June 13, 2024 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was procedural, with administrative reports and correspondence listed but not detailed in the minutes.

• Adopted June 13, 2024 meeting minutes (carried)

Water and Wastewater Committee

The Blind River Water and Wastewater Committee will convene a procedural meeting on September 11, 2024, at Council Chambers from 10:00 to 11:00 AM. The agenda contains only routine items such as calling the meeting to order, conflict declarations, and adoption of previous minutes, with no decisions or discussions on substantive matters.

The Blind River Water and Wastewater Committee met on September 11, 2024, and adopted the minutes from the June 12, 2024 meeting. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting consisted of presentations from PUC Services and Tulloch Engineering, including a planned public information session for the new water source in mid-October.

• Adopted minutes of June 12, 2024 meeting (carried)

Infrastructure Services Committee

The Infrastructure Services Committee is reviewing several administrative reports regarding municipal services. Discussions include waste management planning, battery collection registration, and updates on engineering projects.

• New Water Intake & Huron Street Reconstruction weekly status reports
• Boulevard Beautification By-law
• Blind River Municipal Waste Management Plan EA Report
• Battery Collection Site Registration
• SaniDump Update Report to August 31, 2024

The Infrastructure Services Committee met on September 11, 2024, and adopted the minutes from July 10, 2024. The only substantive decision was to defeat a motion to dedicate resources for developing a Boulevard Beautification By-Law. All other items were informational reports and discussions, with no further decisions made.

• Adopted minutes of July 10, 2024 (carried)
• Defeated motion to approve resources for Boulevard Beautification By-Law development
• Adjourned at 9:40 a.m. (carried)

Protective Services Committee

The Blind River Protective Services Committee will review administrative reports for June‑August 2024, including lithium‑ion battery safety and photo‑radar speed enforcement. It will discuss three by‑law amendments: establishing a fire department (By‑Law 23‑16), updating the firearms by‑law (By‑Law 21‑66), and licensing short‑term rentals (By‑Law 24‑XX). Public presentations will also be heard before the meeting is adjourned.

• Amend By‑Law 23‑16 to establish a fire department
• Amend Firearms By‑Law 21‑66
• Regulate short‑term rentals via By‑Law 24‑XX
• Consider photo radar speed enforcement program
• Review Administrative Monetary Penalties (AMPS)

The Protective Services Committee approved several recommendations, including supporting a call for federal/provincial regulations on lithium-ion batteries, recommending photo radar for the 2025 budget, and recommending adoption of a short-term rental licensing by-law. All motions were carried unanimously.

• Adopted minutes of June 11, 2024 (carried)
• Accepted Director of Protective Services report for June-August 2024 (carried)
• Accepted Administrative Monetary Penalties report (carried)
• Supported letter to enact regulations on non-OEM/ULC lithium-ion batteries, to be sent to MP Anthony Rota and all Ontario municipalities (carried)
• Recommended Budget Committee consider photo radar implementation in 2025 budget (carried)
• Recommended Council adopt by-law amendment to by-law 23-16 (Fire Department) (carried)
• Recommended Council adopt by-law amendment to by-law 21-66 (Firearms) to include bear bangers (carried)
• Recommended Council adopt by-law 24-XX to license and regulate short-term rentals (carried)

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The Corporate Services Committee agenda for August 27, 2024 contains no listed items. It appears to be a procedural placeholder without specific decisions or discussions. No rezoning, contracts, ordinances, or fee changes are detailed.

Infrastructure Services Committee

The agenda for the Blind River Infrastructure Services Committee meeting on 2024-08-14 contains no listed items. It appears to be a procedural placeholder without specific decisions, contracts, or discussions recorded. No concrete agenda items are provided in the document.

Public Meeting - Planning

Town Council will hold a public meeting to discuss a planning application. The session focuses on a request for a minor variance regarding a specific property.

• Minor Variance application V2024-006 for 927 Cataract River Road

The meeting was a public planning session where the CAO/Clerk presented application V2024-006 for 927 Cataract River Road, noting it meets water's edge setback requirements. No formal decision was made; the meeting adjourned after discussion.

• Adjourned public meeting at 5:32 p.m. (carried)

Council Meeting

Blind River Town Council will meet on August 12, 2024, to consider several administrative reports and by-laws. Key items include updates on ongoing projects, a surplus lot for commercial use, accessibility audits for Handi Transit, and a grant for the Trans Canada Trail. The council will also vote on three by-laws, including one for a new water source intake and Huron Street reconstruction.

• By-Law #24-55: New Water Source Intake Phase 1 & Huron Street Reconstruction Agreement with JI Enterprises
• By-Law #24-53: Circular Materials Depot Operations Agreement
• By-Law #24-54: DriveTest Continuation 2030 lease extension with Espanola TP
• CAO/Clerk to discuss Surplus Lot for Commercial Use
• Director of Facilities & Community Services to present on Trans Canada Trail Grant

Council approved transferring all revenues and expenses of the Blind River Dam to North Shore Power Group, rescinding a 2010 agreement if NSPG secures a power contract, and referring a wastewater rate increase to the Budget Committee. Council also declared a surplus lot at 247 Causley Street for sale, approved several contracts and by-laws, and made a $200 donation to a golf classic.

• Transferred Blind River Dam revenues and expenses to North Shore Power Group (7-0)
• Declared surplus lot at 247 Causley Street for sale with business proposal conditions
• Approved $200 donation for Mississauga First Nation Golf Classic hole sponsorship
• Authorized Trans Canada Trail Project Contract 197202 for tree planting
• Approved reallocation of By-law Truck savings to Town Hall WiFi and SCBA Fill Station
• Authorized beaver trapping contract with Robin Horwath at no cost to Town
• Approved By-law #24-53 for Circular Materials Depot Agreement
• Approved By-law #24-55 for New Water Intake Phase 1 & Huron Street Reconstruction

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The agenda for the Blind River Corporate Services Committee on July 30, 2024 contains no listed items. It appears to consist only of procedural placeholders without substantive proposals or decisions.

Special Council Meeting

This special meeting is scheduled for the purpose of educating or training council members. The session is designated as a closed session.

• Closed session for member training

Council entered a closed session to address matters pertaining to educating or training members. No other substantive decisions were recorded during the meeting.

• Entered closed session for member training (Carried)
• Resumed open meeting at 5:50 p.m. (Carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:50 p.m. (Carried)

Council Meeting

The Blind River Town Council is meeting to discuss various administrative reports, budget modifications for sidewalks and street scanning, and several new by-laws. The session includes reviews of municipal policies and infrastructure project updates.

• Huron Street Reconstruction and New Intake Phase 1 Tender Award
• By-Law #24-49: Temporary Borrowing for Sewage Treatment Plant Upgrades
• By-Law #24-50: FedNor Funding Agreement for Water Study
• Amendments to 2024 Municipal User Fees
• By-Law #24-48: Deeming application for 37 & 39 West Street

Council approved a $4,496,814.75 bid from JI Enterprises for the New Water Intake Phase 1 and Huron Street Reconstruction Project. Other key actions included establishing new municipal user fees and amending the council meeting schedule to once per month starting August 31, 2024.

• Approved $4,496,814.75 contract to JI Enterprises for water intake and Huron Street project
• Authorized new municipal user fees for pickleball, cemetery interment, and road permits
• Amended Procedural By-law to hold Regular Meetings once a month on the third Monday
• Approved $3,982.99 for a new Parks mower using By-law truck savings
• Authorized reallocation of up to $35,000 for various water and pump repairs
• Approved consolidation of land parcels at 37 and 39 West Street
• Authorized temporary borrowing for Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrades
• Approved closure of Park Street on September 26, 2024, for an All Schools Powwow

Infrastructure Services Committee

The committee will review several administrative reports regarding public services. Discussions include a water and sewer warranty program, a scrap purchase agreement with AIM Recycling, and landfill diversion through wood shredding.

• AMO-LAS Water & Sewer Warranty Program discussion
• AIM Recycling Agreement and Scrap Purchase Agreement
• Landfill waste diversion via construction wood shredding
• Waste disposal issues with shared collection areas
• SaniDump update to June 30, 2024

The Infrastructure Services Committee adopted its June 12 minutes and passed four recommendations to Council. It recommended a water and sewer line warranty program with Service Line Warranties of Canada, a scrap metal sale agreement with Aim Recycling Hamilton, a $50,000 bi-annual wood waste shredding program, and restricted access to shared waste bins at Granary Lake Road and High Road. All items carried; the committee also reviewed the Public Services Report and SaniDump update without decisions.

• Adopted June 12 minutes as presented (carried)
• Recommended water and sewer warranty program with Service Line Warranties of Canada to Corporate Services (carried)
• Recommended scrap metal sale agreement with Aim Recycling Hamilton for landfill scrap (carried)
• Recommended $50,000 bi-annual wood waste shredding program with two-year trial (carried)
• Recommended restricting shared bins at Granary Lake Road and High Road to serviced residents, with removal if non-compliant (carried)
• Reviewed Public Services Report and SaniDump update to June 30, 2024 (no decision)
• Adjourned at 9:44 a.m. (carried)

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The Corporate Services Committee will review administrative reports and draft municipal policies that govern council meetings, key access, public donations, and animal control. These items establish rules for municipal operations and public fund management. The agenda is primarily procedural and contains no public hearings or capital project approvals.

• Draft Key Holder Policy
• Council Donation Policy and draft donation schedules
• Procedural by-law amendment for the council meeting schedule
• Draft Memorandum of Understanding for animal control
• Follow-up report on 2023 tax sale properties

Blind River's Corporate Services Committee met June 25, 2024 and passed several recommendations for Council to consider. The committee recommended amending the Procedural By-law so Regular Council meetings are held on the third Monday of each month at 6:00 p.m., effective August 31, 2024, with an evaluation report due in March 2025. It also recommended Council authorize a By-Law Enforcement Memorandum of Understanding with the Municipality of Huron Shores, adopt the Key Holder Policy, adopt the amended 1.1.8 Attend Municipal Event Policy and 1.1.16 Council Donation Policy, and re-advertise the three unsold properties from the October 2023 Tax Sale. All motions carried; the committee's recommendations still require Council approval.

• Recommended Council amend By-law #19-24 so Regular Meetings are the third Monday monthly at 6:00 p.m., effective August 31, 2024 (carried)
• Recommended Council authorize CAO/Clerk to sign By-Law Enforcement MOU with Municipality of Huron Shores (carried)
• Recommended Council adopt the Key Holder Policy as presented (carried)
• Recommended Council adopt the amended 1.1.8 Attend Municipal Event Policy (carried)
• Recommended Council adopt the amended 1.1.16 Council Donation Policy (carried)
• Recommended Council re-advertise the three unsold properties from the October 2023 Tax Sale (carried)
• Adopted minutes of the March 26, 2024 meeting as presented (carried)
• Meeting adjourned at 10:57 a.m. (carried)

Special Council Meeting

The Blind River Town Council is holding a special meeting on June 24, 2024, to hear a delegation from the Mississauga First Nation regarding Truth and Reconciliation. The agenda consists primarily of standard procedural boilerplate and a resolution to adjourn, with no substantive policy decisions, contracts, or rezonings scheduled.

• Delegation by Mississauga First Nation on Truth and Reconciliation
• Presentation attachment: Golfingcommittee_presentation_20240619.pdf
• Standard procedural items (call to order, declarations of pecuniary interest)
• Resolution to adjourn

The Blind River Town Council received a presentation from Mississauga First Nation Chief Brent Niganobe regarding Truth and Reconciliation. Council formally resolved to accept the presentation and continue working collaboratively with the First Nation on this initiative.

• Accepted Truth and Reconciliation presentation (Approved)
• Committed to ongoing collaboration with Mississauga First Nation (Approved)
• Adjourned special meeting at 6:25 p.m. (Resolution 24-206)

BRDC

The Blind River Development Corporation will meet to review staff reports and previous minutes. The agenda includes a mid-year project summary update from the Director of Facilities & Community Services.

• Mid-Year Project Summary Update from the Director of Facilities & Community Services
• Adoption of the March 21, 2024 minutes

Budget Committee

The Blind River Budget Committee will review a mid-year budget update that includes variance reports and receivables data for taxes and water. Members will discuss proposed amendments to the 2024 Municipal User Fees By-law and draft schedules for 2025 fees. The meeting also covers administrative updates on vacant home tax policy, vacant lot utility rates, capital sidewalks, street scanning budget modifications, and pre-engineering work for the Dawsey culvert. A closed session will address land acquisition and labour relations.

• Mid-year budget update with variance reports and receivables data
• Proposed amendments to the 2024 Municipal User Fees By-law
• Draft schedules for proposed 2025 municipal user fees
• Updates on vacant home tax policy and vacant lot water/sewer rates
• Capital project reviews including sidewalk construction, street scanning budget modifications, and Dawsey culvert pre-engineering

The Budget Committee recommended to Council that the 2024 Sidewalk project engineering be completed this year, with leftover funds reserved for the 2025 sidewalk allocation. It also recommended moving up to $7,500 from the Public Works Roof capital budget to the 2024 StreetScan budget, and funding Dawsey Culvert pre-engineering from the Bridge Reserve while directing the 2024 pre-engineering budget to a New Water Source. A set of new 2024 municipal user fees was approved by a 6-1 vote, and an Infrastructure Renewal Fee for unconnected lots fronting municipal water and wastewater services was endorsed 4-3 for inclusion in the 2025 budgets. All items are recommendations to Council, not final Council decisions.

• Recommended 2024 Sidewalk project engineering be completed in 2024; remaining funds to reserve for 2025 sidewalk allocation (carried)
• Recommended up to $7,500 transferred from Public Works Roof capital budget to 2024 StreetScan budget; unspent roof funds to sand/salt storage reserve (carried)
• Recommended Dawsey Culvert 2024 pre-engineering costs be paid from Bridge Reserve; 2024 pre-engineering budget allocated to New Water Source (carried)
• Approved adding new 2024 municipal user fees, including indoor pickleball $49.76 plus HST per player and cemetery interment charges (6-1)
• Recommended an Infrastructure Renewal Fee for unconnected lots fronting municipal water and wastewater services be included in 2025 budgets (4-3)
• Adopted minutes of the February 26, 2024 meeting as presented (carried)
• Went into closed session at 5:15 p.m. to discuss land acquisition/disposition and labour relations; resumed open session at 5:48 p.m.
• Adjourned at 5:48 p.m. (carried)

Council Meeting

The Town Council is reviewing several proposed by-laws regarding signage, vacant buildings, taxi exemptions, and burning. The agenda also includes a rezoning and official plan amendment for 247 Causley Street.

• Rezoning and Official Plan Amendment: 247 Causley Street
• By-Law #24-38: Deeming application for 123 Robb Rd. & 125 Robb Rd.
• By-Law #24-41: Sign By-Law Amendment
• By-Law #24-42: Vacant Buildings By-Law
• By-Law #24-43: Taxi By-Law Exemption

Council approved several new and amended by-laws covering vacant buildings, taxi services, and road work. They also granted a minor variance for a dwelling at Lake Matinenda and approved a rezoning and Official Plan amendment for 247 Causley Street.

• Approved rezoning of 247 Causley Street to 'Highway Commercial' (7-0)
• Approved Official Plan amendment for 247 Causley Street to 'Employment Area'
• Approved minor variance for 512 sq. ft. addition at S-1528, Lake Matinenda (7-0)
• Approved By-law #24-42 to regulate vacant buildings
• Approved By-law #24-43 to adjust taxi service vehicle age limits
• Approved By-law #24-45 to regulate road cuts and road occupation permits
• Halted playground equipment removal at Shirvon Park for 2025 budget review (7-0)
• Authorized $250 donation to Mississauga First Nation 43rd Annual Traditional Pow Wow

Public Meeting - Planning

The Town Council is reviewing several planning applications. These include a minor variance request for Lake Matinenda and two separate requests regarding 247 Causley Street.

• Minor Variance application: V2024-005 Lake Matinenda - S-1528
• Official Plan Amendment application: OP2024-001 247 Causley Street
• Zoning Amendment application: ZBL2024-001 247 Causley Street

The Blind River Town Council held a public meeting to review three planning applications. The Clerk provided explanations for applications regarding Lake Matinenda and 247 Causley Street. No decisions were made on the applications during this meeting; the session ended with a resolution to adjourn.

• Reviewed planning application V2024-005 (Lake Matinenda - S-1528)
• Reviewed planning application OP2024-001 (247 Causley Street)
• Reviewed planning application ZBL2024-001 (247 Causley Street)
• Resolution 24-184 to adjourn meeting carried

Community Services Committee

The Community Services Committee will review administrative reports regarding community awards and local club updates. The agenda includes the adoption of previous minutes and a call for declarations of conflict of interest.

• Senior of the Year Award report
• Rotary Club of Blind River update

The Community Services Committee recommended that Council implement a local Senior of the Year program in 2025. The committee also adopted the minutes from the April 11, 2024 meeting.

• Recommended Council approve a 'Senior of the Year' program for 2025 (Carried)
• Adopted April 11, 2024 meeting minutes (Carried)

Infrastructure Services Committee

The Infrastructure Services Committee is reviewing several administrative reports regarding public services, road resurfacing, and new permit implementations. The committee will also receive updates on engineering projects and watermain path locations from Tulloch Engineering.

• 2024 Road Resurfacing Update
• New Regulations Related to Locate Requests effective May 1, 2024
• Implementation of Road Cut and Road Occupation Permits
• Tulloch Engineering Project Update List
• Georadar watermain path location at 3 sites

The Blind River Infrastructure Services Committee adopted its April 10, 2024 minutes and reviewed several administrative reports, including the Public Service Update, the 2024 Good Roads Conference Recap, the 2024 Road Resurfacing Update, new locate request regulations, and reports from Tulloch Engineering and the Director of Finance. The only substantive resolution recommends that Council approve a Road Cut/Occupation permit system for private road work and create a public awareness campaign about the new requirements. The meeting adjourned at 9:21 a.m.

• Adopted April 10, 2024 minutes as presented (carried)
• Recommended Council approve a Road Cut/Occupation permit system for private road work (carried)
• Recommended a public awareness campaign on the new permit requirements (carried)
• Adjourned the meeting at 9:21 a.m. (carried)

Water and Wastewater Committee

The committee will meet to review previous minutes and hear public presentations. Scheduled presenters include the PUC, Tulloch Engineering, and Algoma Public Health.

• PUC Presentation
• Tulloch Engineering presentation
• Algoma Public Health presentation

The committee met to review operational reports from PUC Services and Tulloch Engineering. Members also noted that Blind River's water was voted best tasting at the 2024 Northeastern Ontario Water Works Conference. No other substantive policy decisions were made during the meeting.

• Adopted March 13, 2024 meeting minutes (Carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:20 a.m. (Carried)

Protective Services Committee

The Protective Services Committee is reviewing several proposed changes to local by-laws. The meeting includes discussions on amendments regarding burning and signs, as well as a new item concerning vacant buildings.

• Burning By-Law Amendment
• Sign By-Law Amendment
• Vacant Buildings By-Law

The Protective Services Committee recommended that Council adopt amendments to the Burning and Sign by-laws, as well as a new Vacant Buildings by-law. The committee also recommended amending the taxi vehicle age limit in By-Law 2249 to help restore taxi services to the town.

• Adopted May 14, 2024 minutes (Carried)
• Accepted May 2024 report (Carried)
• Recommended Council adopt Burning By-Law Amendment (Carried)
• Recommended Council adopt Sign By-law Amendment (Carried)
• Recommended Council adopt Vacant Buildings By-law (Carried)
• Recommended Council amend By-Law 2249 to adjust taxi vehicle age limits (Carried)
• Recommended Council adopt Community Risk Assessment (Carried)

Public Meeting - Planning

The Town Council is reviewing several planning applications. These include two applications for consent on Hamilton Avenue and four applications for minor variances at various residential addresses.

• Application for Consent: 48 Hamilton Avenue and 50 Hamilton Avenue
• Application for Consent: 48 Hamilton Avenue and 36 Hamilton Avenue
• Application for Minor Variance: 300 Leacock Street
• Application for Minor Variance: 65 Woodward Avenue
• Application for Minor Variance: 69 and 307 Woodward Avenue

Blind River Town Council held a special public planning meeting on June 3, 2024, and reviewed six planning applications: two at Hamilton Avenue (C2024-002 for 48 and 50 Hamilton Avenue, C2024-003 for 48 and 36 Hamilton Avenue) and four on Woodward Avenue and Leacock Street (V2024-001 at 300 Leacock Street, V2024-002 at 65 Woodward Avenue, V2024-003 at 69 Woodward Avenue, V2024-004 at 307 Woodward Avenue). The CAO/Clerk explained each application to Council, and the minutes note that no comments were received on any of them. The minutes record no approval, denial, or other decision on the applications themselves; the only resolution was to adjourn the meeting at 5:13 p.m. (24-168, carried).

• Adjourned the public meeting at 5:13 p.m. (Resolution 24-168, carried)
• No decision recorded on C2024-002 (48 and 50 Hamilton Avenue)
• No decision recorded on C2024-003 (48 and 36 Hamilton Avenue)
• No decision recorded on V2024-001 (300 Leacock Street)
• No decision recorded on V2024-002 (65 Woodward Avenue)
• No decision recorded on V2024-003 (69 Woodward Avenue)
• No decision recorded on V2024-004 (307 Woodward Avenue)

Council Meeting

The Town Council is reviewing several property applications including lot additions and minor variances. The meeting also includes discussions on website software, well rehabilitation, and new service agreements.

• Lot addition application for 48 & 50 Hamilton Ave
• Lot addition application for 48 & 36 Hamilton Avenue
• Minor variance applications for 300 Leacock Street, 65 Woodward Avenue, 69 Woodward Avenue, and 307 Woodward Ave
• 2024 Well Rehabilitation project
• By-Law #24-35: Product Care Association of Canada lighting services agreement

Council approved multiple minor variances for storage containers and residential setbacks, along with lot additions on Hamilton Avenue. Funding was authorized for well rehabilitation and a website platform transition. Two service agreements were signed via new by-laws.

• Approved lot additions for 48 & 50 Hamilton Ave and 48 & 36 Hamilton Ave
• Granted variance for 13 sea storage containers at 300 Leacock Street
• Granted residential setback variances for 65 and 69 Woodward Avenue
• Granted variance for 2 storage containers at 307 Woodward Avenue
• Authorized $19,296.00 for GovStack website transition to be paid in 2025
• Allocated $26,966.40 for well rehabilitation for the Water Treatment Plant
• Halted removal of playground equipment at Shirvon Park for 2025 budget review
• Approved agreements with Product Care Association of Canada and Holly Transportation Services Inc.

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The provided document contains only procedural software information and does not list any specific business items for the Corporate Services Committee meeting.

Council Meeting

The council will review administrative reports regarding tiny homes, brownfield incentives, and insurance renewals. Agenda items include temporary borrowing for Huron Street reconstruction and the consideration of by-laws for dock reconstruction and community centre rentals. The meeting also includes a public presentation concerning Shirvon Park.

• Temporary borrowing for Huron Street reconstruction (lake intake and STP upgrades)
• By-Law #24-32: Matinenda Dock Headwall Reconstruction Agreement
• By-Law #24-33: DanceWorks Community Centre Rental Agreement
• Review of Live Streaming of Council & Committee Meetings Policy
• Public presentation regarding Shirvon Park turtle information

Council approved several operational contracts, including general and cyber insurance and a reconstruction agreement for Matinenda Dock. The board authorized funding and event permits for Community Days and the Demolition Derby. Several provincial policy resolutions were supported, while requests regarding basic income and natural gas were defeated.

• Approved $324,299 for General Insurance and $10,530 for Cyber Risk insurance
• Authorized $20,000 donation to the Blind River Community Days Committee 2024
• Approved Matinenda Dock Headwall Reconstruction Agreement with JI Enterprises
• Authorized staff to develop a process for allowing Tiny Homes
• Approved 'Movie in the Park' (July 11) and fireworks (July 14) for Community Days
• Authorized support for the Municipality of Wawa's objection to Hwy 400/69 rerouting
• Approved support for the City of Stratford regarding operational budget funding
• Defeated support for basic income guarantee and natural gas policy resolutions

BRDC

The provided document contains only software interface elements and metadata fields. No specific business, proposals, or decisions are listed for the Blind River, Ontario meeting.

Protective Services Committee

The Protective Services Committee will review the April 2024 Director of Protective Services report. The CAO/Clerk will also present information regarding Property Standards Hearing Committee appointments and a vacant building report.

• Property Standards Hearing Committee appointments and hearing process
• Vacant Building Report
• Director of Protective Services April 2024 report

The Protective Services Committee adopted the previous meeting's minutes. It recommended that Council amend By-law #18-34 to include a hearing committee procedure. The committee also directed staff to amend the Vacant Building By-Law to include a registry with an administrative fee and to report on a Vacant Building Tax to the Budget Committee in June.

• Adopted minutes of April 9, 2024 meeting (Carried)
• Recommended Council amend By-law #18-34 to include Schedule A hearing procedure (Carried)
• Directed staff to amend Vacant Building By-Law to include registry with administrative fee (Carried)
• Directed staff to bring Vacant Building Tax report to Budget Committee in June (Carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 4:09 p.m. (Carried)

Community Services Committee

The provided document contains only software interface elements and metadata fields from an electronic agenda system. No specific topics, decisions, or discussions are recorded in this text.

Infrastructure Services Committee

This document for the Blind River Infrastructure Services Committee meeting on May 8, 2024, consists entirely of empty template fields with no listed business. No proposals, votes, or public hearings are recorded in this text. Because the provided record is incomplete, no specific decisions or resident impacts can be detailed from it.

• No substantive agenda items are listed in the provided document.

Council Meeting

The provided document contains only software interface elements and empty headers. No specific topics, motions, or decisions are recorded in the text.

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

This meeting consists primarily of procedural matters, including the adoption of previous minutes. The committee will also review an administrative report regarding a Live Streaming Policy for Council and Committee meetings.

• Live Streaming Policy - April 2024
• Adoption of March 26, 2024, meeting minutes

BRDC

The provided document contains only procedural boilerplate and software interface elements. No specific agenda items, proposals, or decisions are recorded in this text.

Council Meeting

The council will review proposed 2024 tax rates and various agreements, including street scanning services and sidewalk improvements. Discussions are also scheduled regarding pickleball fees and beer gardens for Community Days. A public presentation about Shirvon Playground is on the agenda.

• By-Law #24-25: 2024 Tax Rates
• Agreement with CityLogix Inc. for StreetScan Service
• Agreement for Visitor Centre Sidewalk Improvements by JI Enterprises
• Amendment to Traffic By-Law 21-67 regarding Hanes Ave parking
• Review of pickleball area fees

Council passed By-law #24-25 to establish 2024 tax ratios and rates. Several agreements were approved, including sidewalk improvements at the Visitor Centre and a contract with CityLogix for StreetScan services. Council also set indoor pickleball fees and declared May 14 as Litter Cleanup Day.

• Approved 2024 tax ratios and rates (By-law #24-25)
• Approved $49.76 plus HST per player fee for indoor pickleball
• Approved Visitor Centre Sidewalk Improvement project with 823292 Ontario Ltd o/a JI Enterprises
• Approved agreement with CityLogix for StreetScan Service
• Approved agreement for Dedicated Gas Tax Funds for Public Transportation
• Authorized Beer Garden for Community Days on July 13, 2024
• Declared May 14, 2024 as Litter Cleanup Day
• Denied donation to Algoma District School Board GRAD Survival Day 2024

Community Services Committee

The Community Services Committee will review administrative reports regarding pickleball area fees following council direction. This includes a comparison of fee structures from Elliot Lake, Thessalon, Sudbury, Sault Ste Marie, and Espanola.

• Review of Pickleball Area Fees
• Comparison of regional recreation fees

The Community Services Committee adopted the minutes of its March 14 meeting and recommended that Council accept a fee of $49.76 plus HST per player for the 2024 season for indoor pickleball courts at The Blind River Community Centre. The fee covers Monday, Wednesday, and Friday use between 8:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., excluding holidays. Both items carried; the meeting adjourned at 4:32 p.m. The pickleball fee is a recommendation to Council, not a final Council decision.

• Adopted March 14 meeting minutes as presented (carried)
• Recommended Council accept $49.76 plus HST per player for 2024 indoor pickleball season (carried)
• Adjourned at 4:32 p.m. (carried)

Infrastructure Services Committee

The Infrastructure Services Committee meeting consists primarily of procedural items and administrative reports. The committee will review the April 2024 monthly report from the Director of Public Services.

• Director of Public Services Monthly Report

The committee adopted the minutes from the March 13, 2024, meeting. Members reviewed the Public Services Monthly Report and discussed drainage effects related to new school construction.

• Adopted March 13, 2024 minutes (Carried)

Protective Services Committee

The Protective Services Committee will review requests to amend Traffic By-Law 21-67 and approve Fortification By-Law 24-XX. The meeting also includes administrative reports for February and March 2024.

• Amendments to Traffic By-Law 21-67, including a no parking request for Hanes Ave
• Review and approval of Fortification By-Law 24-XX
• Administrative reports for February and March 2024

The Blind River Protective Services Committee adopted its January 9, 2024 minutes and reviewed the February and March 2024 administrative reports. It recommended that Council adopt an amendment to Traffic By-Law 21-67 for Hanes and Causley Streets, and recommended that Council adopt the Fortification By-Law 24-XX, both as presented. The committee also discussed a safe crossing at the top of Woodward and Robb Road, with the Director of Protective Services to provide a report. The meeting adjourned at 4:26 p.m.

• Adopted January 9, 2024 minutes as presented (carried)
• Recommended Council adopt amendment to Traffic By-Law 21-67, Hanes and Causley Streets, as presented (carried)
• Recommended Council adopt Fortification By-Law 24-XX as presented (carried)
• Reviewed February and March 2024 administrative reports (no decision recorded)
• Discussed safe crossing at Woodward and Robb Road; Director of Protective Services to provide a report (no decision recorded)

Council Meeting

The Blind River Town Council will review several proposed by-laws, including agreements for arena roof repairs and the Trans Canada Trail. The meeting also includes updates on water and sewer rates for vacant lots and committee reports regarding municipal policies.

• Agreement for arena roof repairs with Mike Moore Construction
• Trans Canada Trail Boom Camp Trail agreement
• Proposed water and sewer rates for vacant lots
• Appointment of a Municipal Weed Inspector
• Review of Anti-Racism and Conflict of Interest policies

Council approved a contract for partial arena roof replacement and adopted new policies regarding conflict of interest, anti-racism, and dress code. Other actions included proclaiming May as Community Living Awareness Month and authorizing road closures for the July 13 parade.

• Approved $494,336 contract to Mike Moore Construction Ltd for arena roof replacement
• Adopted Conflict Interest, Anti Racism, and amended Dress Code policies
• Approved road closures for Community Days Parade on July 13, 2024
• Rescinded Health & Safety Awards Policy
• Approved $250 donation to Blind River Trappers Council
• Approved $50 donation to Ecole secondaire catholique Jeunesse-Nord
• Denied donation to Blind River Pickleball Club for tournament rental fees
• Referred vacant lot water and sewer rates to Budget Committee for 2025

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The committee will review administrative reports regarding the Anti-Racism and Dress Code policies. It will also receive updates on tax and water receivables and discuss 2024 water and sewer rates for vacant lots.

• 2024 Water and Sewer Rates for Vacant Lots
• Delegation of Authority By-Law review
• Conflict of Interest Policy update
• Anti-Racism Policy report
• Tax and water receivables reports

The Corporate Services Committee recommended that Council adopt policies regarding conflict of interest, anti-racism, dress code, and a delegation of authority by-law. The committee also recommended referring vacant lot water and sewer rates to the Budget Committee for 2025 discussions.

• Adopted January 30, 2024 meeting minutes (Carried)
• Recommended Council adopt Conflict Interest Policy (Carried)
• Recommended Council adopt Delegation of Authority By-Law (Carried)
• Recommended Council adopt Anti Racism Policy (Carried)
• Recommended Council adopt amended Dress Code Policy (Carried)
• Recommended referring 2024 Water and Sewer Rates for Vacant Lots to Budget Committee for 2025 (Carried)
• Recommended rescinding Health & Safety Awards Policy and moving funds to Wellness Fund or other H&S initiatives (Carried)

BRDC

The Blind River Development Corporation is reviewing a request for fountain repairs. The Treasurer will present documentation including an estimate from Fountain Place Co. Ltd.

• Fountain Repair Request with an estimate from FOUNTAIN_PLACE_CO._LTD

The Blind River Development Corporation adopted the minutes of its February 15, 2024 meeting and approved paying for repairs to the fountain, as presented in staff reports. No dollar amount or repair details were recorded in the minutes. The meeting adjourned at 4:03 p.m., with the next meeting set for April 18, 2024.

• Adopted February 15, 2024 meeting minutes as presented (carried)
• Approved and paid for fountain repairs as presented (carried)
• Adjourned at 4:03 p.m. (carried)

Council Meeting

The Blind River Town Council will review several administrative reports, including a severance application for 34 and 36 Huron Avenue. The agenda also includes discussions on police services board appointments and a petition regarding lab closures in Sault Ste. Marie. Additionally, the council will consider a by-law for borrowing funds to support major infrastructure projects.

• Severance application for 34 and 36 Huron Avenue
• By-Law #24-18 regarding borrowing for Huron Street Lake Intake and STP Upgrades
• Appointment to the Blind River Detachment Police Services Board
• Road closure request for Blind River Community Days 2024
• Review of 2023 Council Remuneration

Blind River Town Council held a regular meeting on March 18, 2024, and approved a series of resolutions. Council authorized temporary borrowing for the Huron Street, Lake Intake for New Water Source, and Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrades projects, approved a severance at 34 and 36 Huron Avenue, appointed members to the Police Services Board, and supported a petition opposing a lab closure in Sault Ste. Marie. Council also authorized a seasonal closure of Huron Beach Road from December 1 to April 1, cancelled the May 6, 2024 meeting due to lack of quorum, and approved several community requests and donations.

• Approved temporary borrowing by-law #24-18 for Huron Street, Lake Intake for New Water Source, and Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrades projects (carried)
• Approved consent application for severance at 34 Huron Avenue and 36 Huron Avenue (carried)
• Appointed Councillor P. Summers and K. Kennedy to the Blind River Detachment Police Services Board 2 (carried)
• Authorized a letter supporting a petition opposing the closure of the lab in Sault Ste. Marie (carried, recorded vote: 6 yea, 0 nay)
• Approved budgeted transfers to reserves (carried)
• Rescinded Resolution 23-264 and approved the Emergency Management Committee report, appointing members and declaring the CAO as Chair (carried)
• Authorized seasonal closure of Huron Beach Road from December 1 to April 1 and rescinded Resolution 2013-546 (carried)
• Approved Public Works Policy 4.16 Huron Beach Road Seasonal Closure (carried)

Public Meeting - Planning

The Town Council is reviewing a planning application for consent regarding 34 Huron Avenue and 36 Huron Avenue. The meeting includes a technical report and conditions for consent related to this request.

• Application for Consent: 34 Huron Avenue and 36 Huron Avenue (C2024-001)

Community Services Committee

The Community Services Committee will review administrative reports regarding Shirvon Park, including an engineering letter and a turtle report. The committee will also consider the adoption of minutes from the January 11, 2024, meeting.

• Shirvon Park Engineering Letter
• Shirvon Park Turtle Report
• 240674 Shivron Park Reclamation - 2024
• Adoption of January 11, 2024, minutes

The Community Services Committee adopted the minutes from the previous meeting. The committee recommended that Council accept Tulloch’s professional opinion on Shirvon Park reclamation. They also directed staff to create a grassy trail to protect turtle nesting areas and to explore grant funding for interpretive panels.

• Adopted January 11, 2024 minutes
• Recommended Council accept Tulloch’s Shirvon Park reclamation report
• Directed staff to establish grassy trail for turtle nest protection
• Permitted staff to explore grants for interpretive panels
• Adjourned meeting at 4:06 p.m.

Infrastructure Services Committee

The committee will review several administrative reports, including the February Public Service Report and monthly PUC action items. The agenda also includes a presentation on sidewalk scans and an engineering project update list.

• Sidewalk Scans and Sidewalk Condition Index Review
• Tulloch Engineering Project Update List
• February Public Service Report
• Monthly TWNBR/PUC meeting action items

Water and Wastewater Committee

The committee will meet to review previous minutes and host several public presentations. Scheduled presenters include the PUC, Tulloch Engineering, and Algoma Public Health.

• PUC Presentation
• Tulloch Engineering presentation
• Algoma Public Health presentation

Protective Services Committee

The provided agenda text consists only of procedural software interface elements and boilerplate. No specific meeting topics, motions, or decisions are present in the document.

Police Services Board

The board will review Ontario Provincial Police monthly reports for November 2023, December 2023, and January 2024. The meeting also includes reviewing correspondence regarding the Community Safety and Policing Act effective April 1, 2024.

• OPP Monthly Reports (Nov 2023 - Jan 2024)
• Community Safety and Policing Act implementation update
• Court Security and Prisoner Transportation Grant Update
• Ministry of Transportation license plate renewal correspondence

Council Meeting

The Town Council is reviewing the 2024 capital and operating budgets. The agenda includes discussions on police service board changes, a working committee with Mississauga First Nation, and a fire dispatch agreement.

• 2024 Capital and Operating Budgets
• By-Law #24-16: Fire Dispatch and Communications Agreement
• Police Service Board composition changes effective April 1, 2024
• Creation of a working committee with Mississauga First Nation
• East Algoma Road Supervisors Association – Amalgamated Tender for 2024

Council approved the 2024 Capital and Operating Budgets along with budgets for the Public Library Board and Huron Pines Golf Course. The council also established a joint working committee with Mississauga First Nation to index culturally significant spaces.

• Approved 2024 Capital and Operating Budgets
• Approved 2024 budgets for Blind River Public Library Board and Huron Pines Golf Course
• Allocated up to $20,000 from Special Events Reserve for Community Days 2024
• Appointed staff to a Joint Working Committee with Mississauga First Nation for identifying historical lands
• Authorized up to $2.4M from various reserves for the Huron Street project if required
• Approved participation in the East Algoma Road Superintendents Association 2024 amalgamated tender
• Authorized By-Law #24-16 for fire dispatch services via Sault Ste. Marie Central Ambulance Communications Centre
• Passed resolution calling on the Provincial Government to increase Ontario Works and ODSP rates

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The Corporate Services Committee will review administrative reports regarding tax and water receivables. The meeting also includes discussions on conflict of interest and safety award policies, as well as correspondence from the OPP.

• Conflict of Interest Policy for Council Members
• Annual Safety Award Policy update
• Report on Tax Receivables at January 2024
• Report on Water Receivables at December 31, 2023
• OPP 2024 Court Security and Prisoner Transportation Grant Update

Budget Committee

The Budget Committee will review reports from the Treasurer regarding the 2024 Capital and Operating Budgets. The meeting includes presentations on the revised library budget and the LOEG budget.

• Review of 2024 proposed operating and capital budgets
• Presentation of 2024 revised library budget
• Review of LOEG 2024 budget

Public Meeting - Planning

The Town Council is reviewing a planning application for consent to sever property located at 1 Royer Road. The meeting includes a technical report and proposed conditions for the consent.

• Application for Consent (C2023-003) at 1 Royer Road

Council Meeting

The Council will review several administrative reports including a new water source evaluation and the Blue Box program transition. Discussion includes various by-law considerations regarding Enbridge, traffic on Woodward Avenue, and court services.

• Consent to sever application for 1 Royer Road
• By-Law #24-11: Enbridge Franchise Agreement Renewal
• By-Law #24-12: MNRF Intellectual Property Copyright License Agreement
• By-Law #24-13: Amendment to Traffic By-Law regarding parking on Woodward Avenue
• By-Law #24-14: Court Services Agreement 2023-2028

Council decided to decline a transition agreement for blue box services and will stop providing those services to ineligible sources by January 1, 2025. Other actions included approving a consent application for 1 Royer Road and renewing a franchise agreement with Enbridge. Council also authorized a new court services agreement with the Province of Ontario.

• Approved consent application for 1 Royer Road
• Declined agreement with Circular Materials for blue box services during transition
• Authorized discontinuation of blue box services for ineligible sources as of Jan 1, 2025
• Approved unilingual property tax bills and restart of eBilling project
• Approved use of Town Park and resources for 14th Annual Easter Egg Hunt on March 30, 2024
• Approved Enbridge franchise agreement renewal for submission to Ontario Energy Board
• Authorized MNRF copyright license for Wildland Fire Fighter Training
• Approved By-law #24-13 to amend parking on Woodward Avenue

BRDC

The Blind River Development Corporation is reviewing the proposed 2024 budget. The meeting also includes a staff report regarding short term rentals.

• Review of 2024 Proposed BRDC Budget
• Report on Short Term Rentals
• Adoption of November 16, 2023 minutes

The Blind River Development Corporation Board adopted its November 16, 2023 minutes and approved the 2024 Budget as amended. The Board also directed Administration to gather information on best practices for regulating short-term rentals, citing concerns about housing shortages, brick-and-mortar businesses, and local infrastructure. All motions carried; the meeting adjourned at 4:16 p.m. No dollar figures or vote tallies were recorded in the minutes.

• Adopted November 16, 2023 minutes as presented (carried)
• Approved 2024 Budget, as amended (carried)
• Directed Administration to gather short-term rental best practices for the Board (carried)
• Adjourned at 4:16 p.m. (carried)

Infrastructure Services Committee

The committee will review reports regarding public services and asset management consultant work provided by PSD Citywide. Additionally, Tulloch Engineering will provide an update on the general engineering services project list.

• Review of Asset Management Consultant Work by PSD Citywide
• Tulloch Engineering Project List Update

The Infrastructure Services Committee adopted its January 10, 2024 minutes as presented and adjourned at 9:20 a.m. The committee reviewed and discussed three items: the Public Services Report, a Review of Asset Management Consultant Work, and a Project List Update from Tulloch Engineering. No decisions, motions, or votes were recorded on those reports, and no public presentations, correspondence, addendum, or new business items appear in the minutes.

• Adopted January 10, 2024 Infrastructure Services Committee minutes as presented (CARRIED)
• Reviewed and discussed Public Services Report (no decision recorded)
• Reviewed and discussed Review of Asset Management Consultant Work (no decision recorded)
• Reviewed and discussed Tulloch Engineering Project List Update (no decision recorded)
• Adjourned at 9:20 a.m. (CARRIED)

Protective Services Committee

The Protective Services Committee is reviewing a report from the Director of Protective Services for January 2024. The committee will also consider an amendment to the Traffic By-Law regarding parking on Woodward Avenue and an MNRF Intellectual Property Copyright License Agreement.

• Amendment to By-Law #21-67 Traffic By-Law regarding parking on Woodward Avenue
• MNRF Intellectual Property Copyright License Agreement
• Director of Protective Services January 2024 report

The Protective Services Committee recommended that Council approve a copyright license agreement with the MNRF for wildland fire fighter training. The committee also recommended that Council authorize an amendment to the Woodward Avenue parking by-law.

• Adopted January 9, 2024 minutes (Carried)
• Accepted January 2024 Director of Protective Services report (Carried)
• Recommended Council agree to MNRF Intellectual Property Copyright License Agreement for SP103 Wildland Fire Fighter Training (Carried)
• Recommended Council authorize amendment to By-Law #21-67 regarding parking on Woodward Avenue (Carried)

Special Council Meeting - Finance

The provided document contains only procedural software information and does not list any specific business or financial topics. There are no descriptions of what this body is deciding or discussing.

Council approved pre-budget purchases for the Huron Pines Golf Course and Country Club Board. The authorization covers the purchase of golf carts and a mower.

• Authorized purchase of 12 golf carts for $108,000 plus HST (Carried)
• Authorized purchase of a mower for $70,000 plus HST (Carried)

Public Information Session

The Town Council is holding a public information session regarding the 2024 budget. The Treasurer will present summaries for the operating and capital budgets, as well as a revised library budget.

• 2024 Operating Budget Summary presentation
• 2024 Capital Budget Summary presentation
• Revised 2024 Library Budget presentation

Council conducted a public information session featuring a budget presentation by the Treasurer. No substantive policy decisions or funding approvals were recorded in the minutes.

• Approved the public meeting agenda
• Adjourned the meeting at 6:28 p.m.

Council Meeting

The meeting includes the introduction and consideration of several land use applications for properties on Granary Lake Road. Council will also review various municipal by-laws and consider an amendment to regulate the Fire Department. A public presentation regarding a Municipal Accommodation Tax is also scheduled.

• Zoning amendment and variance applications for 893 and 2277B Granary Lake Road
• Amendment to regulate the Fire Department (By-Law #24-08)
• Review of by-laws for business licensing, auctions, and user fees
• Presentation regarding Municipal Accommodation Tax
• Notice of motion regarding 'Tiny Homes'

Council awarded a contract for the Visitor Centre Project and approved several zoning variances and amendments for properties on Granary Lake Road. The board also authorized an investigation into permitting 'Tiny Homes' and rescinded several outdated by-laws regarding auctions and licensing fees.

• Approved $72,924 (+ HST) bid from JI Enterprises Inc. for Visitor Centre Project
• Approved Consent application for 893 Granary Lake Road
• Granted minor variance for front yard setbacks at 2277B Granary Lake Road
• Approved zoning amendment for 300m setback at 893 Granary Lake Road
• Rescinded By-Law #619 (Prohibit Private or Public Auctions) and By-Law #998 (Transient Traders License Fee)
• Authorized CAO/Clerk to investigate requirements for 'Tiny Home' development
• Approved $500 donation to Crime Stoppers
• Deferred 2024 Huron Pines Golf Course & Country Club Budget

Budget Committee

The Budget Committee is meeting to review the 2024 budget presentation. The Treasurer will present draft versions of both the Capital Budget and the Operating Budget.

• Draft 2024 Capital Budget presentation
• Draft 2024 Operating Budget presentation

The Budget Committee recommended moving funds from several reserves to cover the 2024 contribution for the Huron Street Construction Project. The committee also adopted the minutes from the January 18, 2024, meeting.

• Recommended using fire truck, tax stabilization, water, and wastewater reserves for Huron Street Construction Project (Phase 1 of new water source) (Carried)
• Adopted January 18, 2024, meeting minutes (Carried)

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE

The Corporate Services Committee is reviewing administrative reports presented by the CAO/Clerk. These include updates to the Delegation of Authority By-Law, an amendment to the Attendance Management Program, and a land evaluation report.

• Delegation of Authority By-Law (By-Law 23-xx)
• Attendance Management Program Amendment 2024
• Land Evaluation - Deeming report

Budget Committee

The committee will review the 2024 draft capital and operating budgets, including tax increase details. The agenda also includes a presentation on the 2024 Library budget proposal and a report regarding waste water inlet pump replacement.

• 2024 Draft Capital Budget review
• 2024 Draft Operating Budget review
• Library 2024 Budget Proposal presentation
• Waste Water Treatment Plant Inlet Pump Replacement report
• Huron Pines 2024 Proposed Budget correspondence

The Blind River Budget Committee recommended to Council that the Woodward Ave. loan with RBC remain open as a Construction Loan until final holdbacks are released. The committee also recommended rescinding resolution 23-172 regarding funding for the Boom Camp Boat Launch and applying for a Trillium Grant for the Rap on North Tennis Slope project. A closed session was held to discuss personnel matters and potential land acquisitions, though specific details were not disclosed in the public minutes.

• Adopted November 27, 2023 minutes (Carried)
• Recommended keeping Woodward Ave. RBC loan open as Construction Loan (Carried)
• Recommended rescinding resolution 23-172 for Boom Camp Boat Launch funding (Carried)
• Recommended applying for Trillium Grant for Rap on North Tennis Slope project (Carried)
• Entered closed session for personnel and land matters (Carried)
• Resumed open session (Carried)
• Adjourned meeting (Carried)

Public Meeting - Planning

The Town Council is reviewing several planning applications related to properties on Granary Lake Road. These include a minor variance, a site-specific zoning amendment, and an application for consent.

• Minor Variance application: 2277B Granary Lake Road
• Zoning Amendment application: 893 Granary Lake Road
• Consent application: 893 Granary Lake Road

Blind River Town Council held a special public planning meeting on January 18, 2024, to hear three applications: V2023-010 at 2277B Granary Lake Road, and ZBL2023-005 and C2023-002 at 893 Granary Lake Road. The CAO/Clerk explained each application and noted that no concerns were received. P. Summers declared a conflict of interest on V2023-010 (part of a procurement process involving D. & B Masonry) and departed during that item. The minutes record no decisions on the applications; council adjourned the public meeting at 4:03 p.m.

• No decisions recorded on V2023-010 (2277B Granary Lake Road); application explained, no concerns received
• No decisions recorded on ZBL2023-005 (893 Granary Lake Road); application explained, no concerns received
• No decisions recorded on C2023-002 (893 Granary Lake Road); application explained, no concerns received
• P. Summers declared a conflict of interest on V2023-010 and departed during that item
• Adjourned the public meeting at 4:03 p.m. (moved by B. Dunbar, seconded by J. Posteraro; carried)

Police Services Board

The Blind River Police Services Board will review Ontario Provincial Police monthly reports for September, October, and November 2023. The agenda also includes reviewing correspondence regarding emergency towing services.

• OPP Monthly Reports (September, October, and November 2023)
• Correspondence from TransCan Service Ctr. Ltd. regarding emergency towing services
• Adoption of November 14, 2023, meeting minutes

The Police Services Board adopted the minutes from the November 14, 2023 meeting. The Board also accepted monthly police reports for September, October, and November 2023.

• Adopted November 14, 2023 meeting minutes (Carried)
• Accepted September, October, and November 2023 Monthly Police Reports (Carried)

Council Meeting

The council will review administrative reports regarding ongoing projects, CMHC loan payments, and forest fire management agreements. The agenda also includes consideration of several by-laws related to taxation, transit fees, and a railway sign agreement. Additionally, a notice of motion concerning tiny homes will be presented.

• By-Law #24-04: Interim Tax Levy
• By-Law #24-02: Master Sign Agreement with Canadian Pacific Railway Company
• By-Law #24-03: Handi Transit Bus Amendment, 2024 fees
• Review of Municipal Forest Fire Management Agreement 2024
• Notice of Motion regarding Tiny Homes

Council passed several by-laws including the 2024 interim tax levy and a temporary borrowing authorization. The board also approved a 3.6% increase to the Municipal Forest Fire Management Agreement charge and deferred several vision board projects to 2025.

• Approved 2024 Interim Tax Levy (By-Law #24-04)
• Approved Temporary Borrowing By-law for 2024 (By-Law #24-01)
• Approved 3.6% CPI increase to Comprehensive Protection Charge rate ($818.55 invoice to Crown)
• Removed YMCA, Four Sands Beach, Splash Pad, and other courts from 2024 active Vision Board list
• Denied request for payment deferral and interest relief
• Approved $225 donation to W.C. Eaket Secondary School for volleyball championship
• Authorized investigation into permitting 'Tiny Home' development
• Approved Master Sign Agreement with Canadian Pacific Kansas City (By-Law #24-02)

Community Services Committee

The committee will review the January meeting report from the Director of Facilities and Community Services. The agenda also includes the adoption of previous minutes and potential correspondence.

• Director of Facilities and Community Services January Meeting Report

The Community Services Committee adopted the minutes of its September 14, 2023 meeting as presented, and accepted the Director of Facilities and Community Services' January Meeting Report. Both resolutions carried. The minutes record no other substantive decisions; the meeting adjourned at 4:06 p.m. and the next meeting is set for March 14, 2024.

• Adopted September 14, 2023 meeting minutes as presented (carried)
• Accepted the Director of Facilities and Community Services January Meeting Report (carried)
• Adjourned the meeting at 4:06 p.m. (carried)

Infrastructure Services Committee

The committee will review the Public Services Report and a project list update from Tulloch Engineering. The agenda also includes the adoption of previous minutes.

• Public Services Report - January 10, 2024
• Tulloch Engineering Project List Update

The committee adopted the minutes from the December 10, 2023 meeting. Members reviewed reports from the Director of Public Services and Tulloch Engineering, but no further decisions were recorded.

• Adopted December 10, 2023 minutes (Carried)

Protective Services Committee

The committee will consider a request to review and rescind several by-laws related to business licensing, auctions, transient traders, and user fees. The meeting also includes administrative reports from the Director of Protective Services for October, November, and December 2023.

• Review of Business Licensing By-Law 17-42
• Review of By-Law 619-1957 (Private or Public Auctions)
• Review of By-Law 998-1968 (Transient Traders)
• Review of 2024 User Fees

Blind River's Protective Services Committee adopted its October 10, 2023 minutes and reviewed the Director of Protective Services' monthly reports for October, November and December 2023. The committee recommended that Council rescind By-Law #619 (Prohibit Private or Public Auctions) and By-Law #998 (Transient Traders License Fee), and amend By-Law #18-12 (Business Licensing) to remove fees now set in By-Law #23-68, User Fees, 2024. Members also discussed photo radar for speed signs to gauge interest in bringing the suggestion to staff and Council, but made no decision on it. The meeting adjourned at 4:18 p.m.

• Adopted minutes of October 10, 2023 as presented (carried)
• Recommended Council rescind By-Law #619, Prohibit Private or Public Auctions (carried)
• Recommended Council rescind By-Law #998, Transient Traders License Fee (carried)
• Recommended Council amend By-Law #18-12, Business Licensing, to remove fees set in By-Law #23-68 (carried)
• Reviewed October, November and December 2023 Protective Services reports (no decision recorded)
• Discussed photo radar for speed signs; no decision recorded
• Adjourned at 4:18 p.m. (carried)