Chatham-Kent public meetings in 2022

Combined Council Meeting

Chatham-Kent Council meets to handle routine business, including tender awards, reports, and by-laws. Notable items include a motion to suspend the employee vaccination verification and testing policy, an update on the Wheatley gas emergency recovery, and several contract awards and purchases. The agenda also includes a closed session for legal and land matters.

• Motion by Councillor Jubenville to suspend employee vaccination verification and testing policy
• Wheatley Gas Emergency – Recovery Update with cost appendix
• Single-source award R22-117 for Chatham-Kent waste collection contract
• Purchase of three cargo vans (single source) and two electric ice resurfacers (cooperative)
• Offer to purchase part of property on Tecumseh St, Ridgetown

Council Meeting

Chatham-Kent Council is meeting to consider the 2023 interim tax levy and borrowing by-laws, receive a budget primer on inflation impacts, and award several contracts including transit shelter maintenance and janitorial services. The agenda also includes appointments to committees, road dedication by-laws, and multiple drainage by-laws. A closed session is scheduled to discuss negotiations for a Community Support Agreement related to a Battery Project and an audit contract.

• 2023 Interim Tax Levy, Due Dates, and Borrowing By-laws
• Tender Award T22-322, Transit Shelter Maintenance and Repairs
• Contract Award T22-127-F Concrete Curb, Sidewalk and Driveway Repairs
• T22-356 Janitorial Services, Housing Assets
• Sole source for Hexagon iCAD and radio equipment for Next Generation 9-1-1

Council voted to suspend the vaccination verification and testing policy for Council and committee members. The body also approved the 2023 interim tax levy, borrowing by-laws, and a sole-source contract for 9-1-1 backup site hardware.

• Suspended vaccination verification and testing policy for Council and committee members (9-7)
• Approved 2023 interim tax levy, due dates, and borrowing by-laws (13-0)
• Approved $142,570 sole-source contract to Hexagon Safety for Next Generation 9-1-1 backup site (16-0)
• Authorized request to MTO to include Chatham-Kent in the Golf Car pilot project (16-0)
• Amended Special Event Manual to increase site restoration time from 12 to 24 hours (16-0)
• Approved Councillor appointments to committees and local boards (16-0)
• Approved multiple road dedication by-laws for Yellow Bridge Crescent, Goodal Avenue, Seventh Line, Prosperity Way, and Main Line
• Approved various drainage work by-laws for multiple communities including Harwich, Tilbury, Howard, Orford, and Dover

Planning Meeting

Chatham-Kent Council's Planning meeting on November 28, 2022, will consider nine zoning by-law amendments and one official plan amendment, each with a public hearing. The agenda also includes a closed session to discuss litigation related to the Wheatley Explosion. The meeting is open to the public and livestreamed.

• Zoning amendment for Jack Boekhorst at 14368 & 14376 Selton Line, Orford
• Zoning amendment for Chrisie Louise Lawson at 30649 Zone Road 2, Zone
• Zoning amendment for 2514475 Ontario Inc. at 22694 Victoria Road, Howard
• Draft plan of subdivision and zoning amendment for 2873723 Ontario Inc. at 800 Elizabeth Street, Wallaceburg
• Official plan amendment (OPA 72) for Mohawk Farm Limited on Delaware Avenue, Chatham

Council Meeting

Chatham-Kent Council meets to decide on land purchases, tender awards, and policy items. The agenda includes closed-session items on land deals and legal advice, plus open-session decisions on housing, public art, and infrastructure contracts.

• Offer to Purchase for part of PIN 00683 0004, John St., Morpeth (closed session)
• Tender awards: Mount Creek Drain material supply, articulating bucket truck, courthouse roof replacement
• Affordable housing 17-unit build at 36 McGeorge St., Blenheim – architectural services
• Public Art Policy and Public Art Reserve presentation
• Agreements with Hydro One for Lakeshore Transmission project

Council adopted a new Public Art Policy and created a corresponding reserve. They also approved architectural services for a 17-unit affordable housing project in Blenheim and a five-year agreement with the Intercounty Baseball League.

• Approved Public Art Policy and created Public Art Reserve (18-0)
• Approved $235,921.40 for ROA Studios Inc. for affordable housing architectural services at 36 McGeorge St. Blenheim (18-0)
• Approved five-year Intercounty Baseball League team agreement and $195,500 in 2023 capital requirements (18-0)
• Awarded $627,581.70 tender to Westhoek Construction for 8 pickleball courts in Blenheim, Dresden, Tilbury and Wallaceburg (18-0)
• Approved $576,503.40 for replacement streetlight poles in downtown Wallaceburg and Thamesville (17-0)
• Denied request to waive notice requirement for a vaccination policy motion (7-11)
• Approved three separate land purchase offers in Blenheim, Dresden, and an unspecified location via consent agenda (18-0)
• Approved letters of support for Conservation Authority's viewpoint on Bill 23

Inaugural Meeting and Swearing In Ceremony

This is the ceremonial inaugural meeting of Chatham-Kent Council, featuring the swearing-in of Mayor Darrin Canniff and members of council, along with remarks from officials and an inaugural address. No policy decisions or business items are on the agenda; it is purely procedural and ceremonial.

• Swearing in of Darrin Canniff as Mayor
• Swearing in of Members of Council
• Inaugural Address by Mayor Canniff
• Statement of Election
• Remarks by His Worship Calvin Hurst

Council Orientation

This is a procedural agenda for a Council Orientation meeting. The only item is a motion to move into a closed session under Section 239 of the Municipal Act for the purpose of educating or training council members. No decisions or public business are scheduled.

• Closed session for member education/training under Section 239(3.1)(1) of the Municipal Act, 2001

Council Orientation

This is a Council Orientation meeting for the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, held on November 7, 2022. The only agenda item is a motion to move into a closed session under Section 239 of the Municipal Act, 2001, for the purpose of educating or training members. No other business is listed.

• Closed session for member education/training under Section 239(3.1)(1) of the Municipal Act, 2001

Planning Meeting

Chatham-Kent Council is holding an electronic planning meeting to consider seven applications for zoning by-law amendments and consents. The agenda includes public hearings and potential readings of by-laws for each application. No closed-session items are listed at the time of posting.

• PL202200159 – Doug Hotham, 29399 & 29425 Flat Rock Road, Camden (consent and zoning)
• PL202200176 – Gavril Bocsan, 136 Railroad Street, Thamesville (zoning, includes Phase I ESA)
• PL202200175 – Chris Quinton, 14509 Talbot Trail, Orford (consent and zoning)
• PL202200165 – 484852 Ontario Inc., 4519 Talbot Trail, Tilbury East (consent and zoning)
• PL202200170 – United Way of Chatham-Kent, 425 McNaughton Avenue West, Chatham (zoning)

Chatham-Kent Council approved four planning applications: a consent and zoning amendment for Doug Hotham on Flat Rock Road, a zoning amendment for Gavril Bocsan on Railroad Street, a consent and zoning amendment for Chris Quinton on Talbot Trail, and a consent and zoning amendment for 484852 Ontario Inc. on Talbot Trail. Two applications were postponed: the United Way of Chatham-Kent zoning amendment (to a future meeting) and the Chatham-Kent Recycling Inc. zoning amendment (to November 28, 2022). All votes were unanimous (18-0 or 17-0).

• Approved consent and zoning by-law amendment for Doug Hotham at 29399 & 29425 Flat Rock Road (18-0).
• Approved zoning by-law amendment for Gavril Bocsan at 136 Railroad Street, Thamesville (18-0).
• Approved consent and zoning by-law amendment for Chris Quinton at 14509 Talbot Trail (18-0).
• Approved consent and zoning by-law amendment for 484852 Ontario Inc. at 4519 Talbot Trail (18-0).
• Approved zoning by-law amendment for John & Joyce Weaver at 11652 Longwoods Road (18-0).
• Postponed United Way of Chatham-Kent zoning amendment (425 McNaughton Avenue West) to a future meeting (17-0).
• Postponed Chatham-Kent Recycling Inc. zoning amendment (6584 Middle Line) to November 28, 2022 (18-0).
• Council adjourned at 6:35 pm; next regular meeting set for November 21, 2022.

Combined Council Meeting

Chatham-Kent Council is meeting to vote on several planning applications, including zoning amendments and a draft plan of subdivision, as well as to award tenders and contracts. The agenda also includes updates on the Wheatley emergency costs, Erie Shore Drive, and a proposed fireworks by-law amendment for Diwali. Several items are for information or discussion only.

• Zoning by-law amendments for Jeffrey Jack (17655 Erieau Road) and Bleak House Inc. (495 King Street West)
• Draft plan of subdivision for 507822 Ontario Inc. (200 Queen Street North, Tilbury)
• Tender awards: culvert replacements (T22-299), pool liner replacement (Q22-308), and RFP for project management services (R22-302)
• Next Generation 9-1-1 additional budget request
• Fireworks by-law amendment to allow consumer fireworks for Diwali

Council approved a zoning by-law amendment for 495 King Street West, allowing a private club as a home occupation with up to five on-site employees and outdoor operation. The motion carried 16-1. Council also approved a consent and zoning amendment for a commercial lot at 17655 Erieau Road, a draft plan of subdivision for 12 industrial lots in Tilbury, and a $116,105.75 single-source purchase of ambulance power cots and lifts.

• Approved zoning by-law amendment for 495 King St W to allow a private club as a home occupation (16-1).
• Approved consent application B-105/22 and zoning amendment for a commercial lot at 17655 Erieau Road (16-0).
• Approved draft plan of subdivision for 12 industrial lots at 200 Queen St N, Tilbury (17-0).
• Approved single-source purchase of two Stryker Power Loads and two Power Cots for $116,105.75 (17-0).
• Awarded non-union job evaluation system review to KPMG for $145,000 (16-0).
• Approved $2.96 million for Next Generation 9-1-1 implementation, referred to 2023-2024 budgets (16-0).
• Approved removal of concrete blocks from Erie Shore Drive to re-establish two-way traffic, repealing By-law 48-2020 (15-1).
• Refused repeal of heritage designation for 9 Park Street (Gentry Manor), Chatham (15-1).

Council Meeting

Chatham-Kent Council meets electronically on September 26, 2022, starting with a closed session on a Development Charges By-law appeal, police services, and mutual respect complaints. In open session, Council will consider tender awards, financial statements, by-law amendments, and several information reports. Notable items include a motion to reconsider the Development Charges By-law, a community support agreement with Hydro One, and a purchase of land for a new pump station.

• Motion by Councillor Bondy re Reconsideration of Development Charges By-law
• Community Support Agreement with Hydro One Networks Inc. on Priority Transmission Projects
• Tender Award T22-184 Mariners Road Storm Sewer Improvements, Erieau
• Purchase of Land for New Pump Station PS14, Chatham
• Use and Care Bylaw Amendment – Grass Cutting and Driveway

Council awarded a $1,035,684.55 tender to Murray Mills Excavating & Trucking for Mariners Road storm sewer improvements in Erieau. A $200,000 housing outreach contract was awarded to ROCK Missions for 18 months. Council also approved a community support agreement with Hydro One Networks for priority transmission projects, including a $1M annual community benefit contribution.

• Approved $1,035,684.55 tender for Mariners Road storm sewer improvements (18-0)
• Awarded $200,000 housing outreach services contract to ROCK Missions for 18 months (18-0)
• Approved community support agreement with Hydro One Networks for $1M annual benefit (18-0)
• Approved 2021 audited financial statements (18-0)
• Approved video surveillance policy for municipal property (15-1)
• Approved use and care bylaw amendment on grass cutting and driveways (15-1)
• Approved merging Chatham-Kent Museum and Ridge House Museum advisory committees (14-3)
• Approved $160,079 operating deficit funded by Winter Control Reserve (18-0)

Cancelled Meeting

This meeting agenda is only a cancellation notice. The Planning Meeting scheduled for September 19, 2022, was cancelled out of respect for Queen Elizabeth II's passing and funeral service. It has been rescheduled for Monday, October 17, 2022. No other business is listed.

• Planning Meeting cancelled due to Queen Elizabeth II passing and funeral
• Meeting rescheduled to Monday, October 17, 2022

Council Meeting

Chatham-Kent Council is meeting to award several tenders for infrastructure projects, including guiderail replacements, a culvert replacement, bridge rehabilitation, pavement markings, and sewer flushing. They will also consider offers to purchase municipal land in Blenheim, a preliminary assessing by-law for a waterline project in Shrewsbury, and various by-laws for drainage work and road dedications. The agenda includes a closed session for land transactions and other confidential matters.

• Tender awards for Contract T22-284 (guiderail replacements), T22-238 (Charing Cross Road culvert), T22-286 (Murray Street Bridge rehabilitation), Q22-296 (pavement markings), and R22-291 (sewer flushing and CCTV)
• Offers to purchase parts of properties on Prince St. and New Scotland Line in Blenheim
• Preliminary assessing by-law for Wellington Street Waterline Project in Shrewsbury
• By-laws for drainage work on 13 drains and abandonment of Delaghe and McKnight Drains
• Road dedication by-laws for Beechwood Line, Erie Street South, Harwich Road, Junction Avenue, Rose Beach Line, and Wallace Street

Council voted to reconsider and amend the Talbot Trail Environmental Assessment, splitting it into two parts and approving a $34,465 contract amendment for engineering services. The motion passed 16-1 after a prior 12-5 vote to reconsider the July 11, 2022 decision. Council also approved a $25,000 strategic planning session with StrategyCorp Inc. and directed staff to report on Ride CK transit deficiencies.

• Approved contract amendment #2 for $34,465 for Talbot Trail EA engineering services (16-1)
• Reconsidered July 11, 2022 Talbot Trail EA decision (12-5)
• Approved $25,000 strategic planning session with StrategyCorp Inc. (17-0)
• Directed staff to report on Ride CK urban transit reliability and accessibility (17-0)
• Approved consent agenda including multiple tender awards and reports (16-0)
• Referred fireworks bylaw amendment for Diwali exemption to administration (14-1)
• Supported two resolutions from City of Kingston on landlord-tenant info and sexual assault centres (carried)
• Directed staff to engage public on federal electoral boundary changes (16-0)

Combined Council Meeting

Chatham-Kent Council is meeting to decide on a new municipal development charges by-law, six zoning by-law amendments, and several other items including tenders, licensing, and tax policies. The agenda also includes a closed session for land sale and contract negotiations, and a deputation from the ScottishBorderers Foundation.

• New development charges by-law and background study
• Six zoning by-law amendments for properties in Harwich, Dover, Chatham, Raleigh, and Wheatley
• Tender awards for equipment purchases including graders, loaders, and pickup trucks
• Bridge rehabilitation contract T22-193 for Kimball Road Bridge over Otter Creek
• Consolidated business licensing by-law review

Council approved a $100,000 funding request from the Scottish Borderers Foundation for the Essex & Kent Scottish Fundraising Campaign, to be paid over four years from Strategic Reserves. Council also approved several planning applications, including consents and zoning by-law amendments for residential and agricultural properties. A statutory public meeting for a recycling facility application was deferred for further engagement. The Imagine Chatham-Kent project was designated a priority with up to $2 million approved for due diligence.

• Approved $100,000 for Essex & Kent Scottish campaign over 4 years from Strategic Reserves (13-5)
• Approved Imagine Chatham-Kent as priority project with up to $2M due diligence funding (15-2)
• Approved 2022 Development Charges Background Study and by-law (15-2)
• Approved consent and zoning for Robert Porter, Adelaide Street (17-1)
• Approved consent and zoning for Eugene & Joanne Charron, 5825 Rivard Line (18-0)
• Approved consent and zoning for Jacob Mackellar Farms, 10893 Union Line (18-0)
• Approved zoning for Van Mar Farms, Bloomfield Road (18-0)
• Deferred Chatham-Kent Recycling Inc. public meeting for more engagement (17-0)

Council Meeting

Chatham-Kent Council is meeting electronically on July 25, 2022, to consider several items postponed from the July 11 meeting. Key items include a by-law to authorize an agreement for municipal capital facilities and a tax exemption for a temporary emergency shelter at 185/215 Murray Street, Chatham, to address homelessness. Council will also discuss leases for agricultural tractors and airport hangars, procedural by-law amendments, a COVID-19 vaccination policy update, a woodlot preservation framework, a tourism bike rental pilot, and a building permit fee reduction motion for Meals on Wheels. The meeting includes a closed session for solicitor-client privileged matters related to the Downtown Chatham Centre and the Wheatley Explosion.

• By-law to authorize agreement for municipal capital facilities and tax exemption for temporary emergency shelter at 185/215 Murray Street, Chatham
• Lease of agricultural tractors
• Chatham-Kent Municipal Airport hangar leases
• Procedural by-law amendments – 2022
• COVID-19 vaccination policy for Council and Committee members – update

Council approved two airport hangar lease agreements, repealed and replaced the procedure by-law, and referred the COVID-19 vaccination policy update back to administration for more modeling information. Several other motions were carried, including pausing the Natural Heritage Committee and approving an e-bike rental pilot project.

• Approved lease agreement with 2391571 Ontario Inc. for former Municipal and Enbridge Hangars (15-3)
• Approved hangar lease and construction agreement with Greenhill Produce (Thamesville) Ltd. (17-0)
• Repealed Procedure By-law 109-2018 and 113-2020, passed revised Procedure By-law (18-0)
• Directed staff to report on hybrid council meeting procedures and proxy vote system (18-0)
• Referred COVID-19 Vaccination Policy update back to administration for more modeling info (10-7)
• Paused Natural Heritage Committee of the Whole for remainder of Council term (15-2)
• Approved e-bike rental pilot project with Demon Electric/RYDE, up to $45,000 (15-1)
• Exempted St. Andrew's Residence Meals on Wheels from full building permit fee, pay $90 instead of $8,154.25 (15-1)

Combined Council Meeting

Chatham-Kent Council is holding a combined meeting with a closed session for personnel matters, followed by an open session. Key items include public hearings and decisions on five zoning by-law amendments and an official plan amendment, a presentation on the 2022 Development Charges Background Study, and a by-law to authorize a municipal capital facility agreement for an emergency shelter at 185/215 Murray Street, Chatham. The agenda also includes several tender awards, infrastructure reports, and a service review of customer service.

• Zoning amendments for properties on Chatham Street North (Blenheim), 255 Park Street (Dresden), 29892 Oakdale Road (Camden), 445 Indian Creek Road West (Chatham), and 11887 New Scotland Line (Howard)
• 2022 Development Charges Background Study presentation by Watson & Associates
• By-law to authorize agreement for emergency shelter municipal capital facility at 185/215 Murray Street, Chatham
• Tender awards including T22-197 Sport Field Lighting Upgrade at Rotary Park, Chatham, and R22-256 Engineering Services for Dufferin Avenue Rehabilitation, Wallaceburg
• Service Review – Customer Service presentation with no deputations allowed

Council approved the construction of ten new pickleball courts in Blenheim, Chatham, Dresden, Tilbury, and Wallaceburg (14-3). Council also approved a $1M naming rights sponsorship with TekSavvy for the Third and Fifth Street Bridges (14-2), and endorsed a customer service review directing administration to develop digital service delivery plans and potential Service Centre divestments. Several items were postponed to the July 25, 2022 meeting, including the agricultural tractor lease and airport hangar leases.

• Approved 10 new pickleball courts in 5 communities (14-3)
• Approved TekSavvy bridge naming rights, $100K/year for 10 years (14-2)
• Endorsed customer service digital delivery plan (12-5)
• Endorsed Service Centre divestment plan (10-7)
• Approved $516,385 Rotary Park lighting upgrade to Clarke-Haasen Electric (17-0)
• Approved $598,561 Cemetery Road improvements to Clarke Construction (16-1)
• Approved Talbot Trail EA recommendations for 30-day review (17-0)
• Approved 5 zoning by-law amendments (all 16-0 or 17-0)

Council Meeting

Council approved the 2022 Core Infrastructure Asset Management Plan and a 1.5% tax equivalent for lifecycle infrastructure funding, both referred to the 2023 budget. The Service Review – Customer Service item was postponed to July 11, 2022, after 106 deputations were received. Council also approved a $169,411.86 contract for 14 EV charging stations, authorized negotiations for an Intercounty Baseball League team, and renamed Uncle Tom's Road to Freedom Road.

• Approved 2022 Core Infrastructure Asset Management Plan (18-0)
• Approved 1.5% tax equivalent for lifecycle infrastructure funding, referred to 2023 budget (13-5)
• Approved 6% construction inflation increase on lifecycle infrastructure funding (10-8)
• Approved $169,411.86 contract to ChargerCrew Canada Inc. for 14 EV charging stations (16-0)
• Authorized negotiation of multi-year agreement with Intercounty Baseball League team at Fergie Jenkins Field (14-3)
• Renamed Uncle Tom's Road to Freedom Road effective July 25, 2022 (11-7)
• Approved Together CK Core Grant Program funding of $322,022 for 19 applications (18-0)
• Postponed Service Review – Customer Service to July 11, 2022 meeting (15-1)

Combined Council Meeting

Council approved the appointment of Michael Duben as Chief Administrative Officer effective September 8, 2022, and extended Interim CAO Tony Haddad's term until September 7, 2022. Council also approved public consultation and up to $50,000 in due diligence for the Imagine Chatham-Kent proposal to redevelop the Downtown Chatham Centre site. Six planning applications were approved, including zoning amendments and consents for various properties.

• Approved Michael Duben as CAO effective Sept 8, 2022 (17-1)
• Extended Interim CAO Tony Haddad's appointment to Sept 7, 2022 (17-1)
• Approved public consultation and $50,000 due diligence for Downtown Chatham Centre redevelopment (18-0)
• Approved zoning amendment for cannabis facility at 10078 Longwoods Rd (17-0)
• Approved consents and zoning amendment for Goethyn property at 12608 Evergreen Line (16-0)
• Approved consent and zoning for Weber property at 21064 Erie St S (16-0)
• Approved zoning amendment for Dawson property at 127 & 129 Sheldon Ave (16-0)
• Approved consent and zoning for Nixon/Ferren property at 12539 Clark St (16-0)

Council Meeting

Chatham-Kent Council is meeting to decide on several items including a closed-session land sale, tax relief for the Wheatley evacuation zone, and alternative property tax payment methods. They will also receive reports on housing and homelessness, climate change priorities, and a heritage designation repeal. The meeting includes multiple by-law readings for drainage work and other administrative matters.

• Closed session: proposed land sale at St. George St., Blenheim
• Wheatley long-term evacuation zone tax grant by-law
• Alternative property tax payment methods by-law
• Purchase of Lifepak 15 paramedic monitor/defibrillators (single source)
• Repeal of heritage designation by-law 203-2011 for 7823 Bay Line, Dover

Council approved a tax credit program for properties in the Wheatley long-term evacuation zone, waiving interest and penalties for 60 days after evacuation orders are lifted. Council also directed staff to prepare a report on integrating operations of three local museums (Buxton, Black Mecca, and Wallaceburg & District) under municipal departments, with 2022 funding maintained at 2021 levels from the Strategic Reserve. A request to repeal the heritage designation for 7823 Bay Line in Dover was refused. All other consent agenda items were approved as a block.

• Approved Wheatley evacuation zone tax credit by-law and Section 357 application (17-0)
• Approved motion to study integration of Buxton, Black Mecca, and Wallaceburg museums (18-0)
• Refused repeal of heritage designation by-law 203-2011 for 7823 Bay Line, Dover (18-0)
• Approved consent agenda items 13(a), 14(a), 15(a), 16(a-c), 17(a-b), 18(a-b), 19(c) (18-0)
• Approved climate change action plan priorities with reaffirmed commitment (17-0)
• Received closed session report (17-0)

Council Meeting

Chatham-Kent Council is meeting electronically to consider a consent agenda that includes several tender awards for infrastructure projects, including road reconstruction, sewer separation, and sidewalk repairs. Council will also discuss reports on the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care program, a community market housing and rent-to-own feasibility study, and a transition to an extended producer responsibility model for recycling. Several motions from councillors are on the agenda, including one on rural transit access and another on municipal grass cutting.

• Tender award: Lorne Avenue Reconstruction, Wallaceburg (T22-204)
• Tender award: Gladstone Avenue and Dovercourt Street Sewer Separation, Chatham (T22-163)
• Tender award: 2022 Sidewalk Replacement and Concrete Repair Program (T22-107)
• Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) report
• Motion re: improve access to transit for rural Chatham-Kent residents

Council approved a three-year $1/year pilot lease of the Ridgetown Scout Hut to the Kiwanis Club, with administration to report on feasibility first. It also directed a single division to manage all municipal grass cutting and a 5-year tender for 2023-2028. Several tenders and reports were approved via consent agenda, and an e-bike rental pilot discussion was authorized.

• Approved Ridgetown Scout Hut pilot lease to Kiwanis Club at $1/year for 3 years, with feasibility report required (16-0)
• Approved motion to centralize municipal grass cutting and develop 5-year tender for 2023-2028 (14-0, 2 conflicts)
• Approved consent agenda including multiple tender awards (16-0)
• Authorized Tourism Development Coordinator to discuss e-bike rental pilot with Demon Electric/RYDE and report by July 11, 2022 (16-0)
• Approved motion to request meetings with provincial ministries on Blenheim Business Park endangered species issue (16-0)
• Defeated motion to refer Ridgetown Scout Hut pilot back to administration (7-9)
• Received closed session report (13-0)
• Approved May 30, 2022 Council Information Package

Combined Council Meeting

Chatham-Kent Council approved six zoning by-law amendments, including a mixed-use development in Tilbury and a row house project in Chatham, and awarded the 2022 municipal grass cutting contracts totaling over $765,000. All votes were unanimous among present members, with some councillors declaring conflicts of interest on specific items.

• Approved consent application B-31/22 for Vantel Construction Inc. to sever a surplus dwelling at 11030 Burk Line (14-0)
• Approved zoning amendment for Corridor Air Ltd. at 9 Victoria Avenue, Chatham to permit a duplex (14-0)
• Approved zoning amendment for First Family Homes Inc. on Lanz Boulevard, Blenheim for medium density residential (14-0)
• Approved zoning amendment for Gary and Debra Balloch at 6482 Base Line, Dover to permit a kennel (14-0)
• Approved zoning amendment for 2457478 Ontario Inc. at 81 Queen Street North, Tilbury for mixed-use development (14-0)
• Approved OPA 71 and zoning amendment for Sankofa Capital Corp. at 868-866 Park Avenue West, Chatham (12-0, 1 conflict)
• Approved 2022 Municipal Grass Cutting Contract T22-100 with multiple tenderers totaling $765,018.30 (13-0, 1 conflict)
• Approved Drainage Board recommendations and Hot-Mix Asphalt Resurfacing Program as part of consent agenda (14-0)

Council Meeting

Chatham-Kent Council is meeting electronically to vote on the 2022 tax rates, extend an interim control by-law on large-scale greenhouses, and purchase land for the Keil Drive South Extension. The agenda also includes several by-laws, a tender award, and various reports and motions. The meeting is largely procedural, with no closed-session items listed.

• 2022 tax rates and Business Improvement Area (BIA) rates by-laws
• One-year extension of Interim Control By-law 77-2021 on large-scale greenhouses near urban areas
• Purchase of lands for Keil Drive South Extension, Chatham
• Tender award T22-112 for maintenance of traffic control signals
• Offer to purchase property PIN 00637 0035 at Beech St E and Walnut St E, Bothwell

Council approved increasing the Chatham-Kent Children's Treatment Centre grant from $1.5M to $3.1M, with the additional $1.6M from the Strategic Reserve, and authorized a $1M construction loan at 2.5% interest over 15 years, subject to conditions. Council also approved a consent agenda covering numerous administrative items, and passed several by-laws including tax rates and an interim control by-law extension for greenhouses. A motion to support refugees was carried, and a motion on trail naturalization was referred for a staff report.

• Increased Children's Treatment Centre grant to $3.1M, adding $1.6M from Strategic Reserve (17-0)
• Authorized $1M construction loan to Children's Treatment Centre at 2.5% over 15 years (17-0)
• Approved consent agenda items 12(a), 12(b), 13(a), 14(b), 14(c), 14(e), 14(f), 14(h), 15(c), 15(d), 16(a), 16(b), 17(a), 18(b), 18(c), 19(a), 19(b) (16-1)
• Approved kayak kiosk agreement with Wallaceburg BIA at Civic Square Park (17-0)
• Directed staff to report on trail naturalization and regreening program (17-0)
• Approved motion to write to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada supporting refugees (16-0)
• Approved by-laws including 2022 tax rates, BIA rates, and greenhouse interim control by-law extension
• Withdrew motion re 2022 Farm Tax Ratios

Combined Council Meeting

Council approved an Official Plan Amendment (OPA 69) to re-designate lands in Blenheim for high-density residential development, and approved several zoning by-law amendments, including for a contractor's yard in Chatham and a minor variance in Dresden. A motion to increase the Farm Class Tax Transition Ratio from 22% to 23% was defeated in a tie vote (8-8). Council also sent letters of support for Enbridge Gas projects and referred a motion to establish a Rural Economic Advisory Committee back to administration for a report.

• Approved OPA 69 for high-density residential in Blenheim (16-0)
• Approved zoning amendment for contractor's yard at 295 Given Road (16-0)
• Approved consent and zoning amendment at 387 Bayview Avenue, Erieau (16-0)
• Approved zoning amendment for public storage at 671 Grand Avenue West (16-0)
• Approved zoning amendment for contractor's yard at 24720 Winter Line Road (17-0)
• Approved minor variance for lot coverage in Dresden (17-0)
• Defeated motion to increase Farm Class Tax Transition Ratio to 23% (8-8)
• Referred Rural Economic Advisory Committee motion to administration (14-3)

Combined Council Meeting

Council approved four consent and zoning by-law amendment applications, each with conditions, for properties in Chatham-Kent. The council also approved a $643,197 funding increase for the Fleet Garage, a 3.4% inflationary increase for the garbage and recycling contract, and multiple lifecycle projects for arenas and trails. All decisions were carried with votes ranging from 17-1 to 18-0.

• Approved consent and zoning amendment for surplus dwelling at 24511 Prince Albert Road (18-0)
• Approved consent and zoning amendment for lot additions at 19434 & 19560 Erieau Road (17-1)
• Approved consent and zoning amendment for new residential lot at 8652 Talbot Trail (18-0)
• Approved consent and zoning amendment for vacant industrial lot at 23189 Walker Road (18-0)
• Approved $643,197 additional funding for Fleet Garage construction (17-1)
• Approved 3.4% inflationary increase for garbage and recycling contract (18-0)
• Approved $1,218,220 for 2022 Arena Capital Asset Lifecycle projects (18-0)
• Approved $1,574,600 for trails, active transportation, and CASO Trail projects (18-0)

Natural Heritage Committee of the Whole

The committee approved a motion directing administration to bring a recommendation to Council to retain a facilitator to assist with woodlot preservation, including gathering further information, stakeholder engagement, and preparing a preservation framework by July 11, 2022. A previous motion to specifically retain Brian Boyle & Associates was defeated in an 8-8 tie. The committee also referred a report back to the March 28 Council meeting to explore the feasibility of an in-person public meeting.

• Approved motion to refer woodlot report to March 28 Council for in-person meeting feasibility (15-1)
• Defeated motion to retain Brian Boyle & Associates for woodlot preservation work (8-8)
• Approved motion to direct administration to recommend a facilitator for woodlot preservation (10-6)
• Approved minutes from February 14, 2022 meeting
• Adjourned to April 11, 2022 meeting

Combined Council Meeting

Chatham-Kent Council is meeting to consider several planning applications, including consents and zoning by-law amendments, and to discuss the Chatham Emergency Shelter location. The agenda also includes a closed session for training, legal advice, and personnel matters. Most items are routine procedural matters, with the shelter location being the most significant public item.

• Application for Consent PL202200035 by 1815513 Ontario Inc. at 277 William Street South & 40 Beatty Street, Chatham
• Consent and Zoning By-law Amendment PL202200022 by J & M DeCock Family Farms Ltd. at 21654 Howard Road, Howard
• Consent and Zoning By-law Amendment PL202200017 by Sandra Carther at 30627 Jane Road, Zone
• Zoning By-law Amendment PL202200029 by James Oldershaw at 5 Gregory Drive East, Chatham
• Zoning By-law Amendment PL202100319 by Thames Sales Yard Ltd. at 13236 Evergreen Line, Camden

Council authorized the Director of Employment and Social Services to lease 185 Murray St. for emergency shelter services, with rent of $1 plus costs, through May 31, 2025, and approved up to $100,000 from economic downturn reserves for renovations. A motion to refer the shelter report back until public consultation was defeated (5-11). Council also approved several planning applications, including consents and zoning by-law amendments.

• Approved emergency shelter lease at 185 Murray St. with $1 rent and up to $100,000 for renovations (11-5)
• Defeated motion to refer shelter report back until public consultation completed (5-11)
• Approved consent application B-18/22 for severance at 277 William St S & 40 Beatty St (16-0)
• Approved consents B-09/22 and B-10/22 and zoning amendment for J & M DeCock Family Farms (16-0)
• Approved consent B-06/22 and zoning amendment for Sandra Carther at 30627 Jane Rd (15-0)
• Approved zoning amendment for James Oldershaw at 5 Gregory Dr E (16-0)
• Approved zoning amendment for Thames Sales Yard at 13236 Evergreen Line (15-0)
• Gave third and final reading to five by-laws, including zoning amendments and confirmation by-law

Special Closed Session Council Meeting

This is a special closed session council meeting. Council will move into closed session to discuss personal matters about identifiable individuals and advice subject to solicitor-client privilege, related to a Ministry of Labour Order. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with no public decisions or discussions.

• Closed session under Section 239(2)(b) and (f) of the Municipal Act, 2001
• Discussion of a Ministry of Labour Order
• Adjournment to next meeting on Monday, March 21, 2021 (as stated)

Combined Council Meeting

Chatham-Kent Council is meeting electronically to consider several planning applications, a land purchase offer, and by-laws including zoning amendments and user fees. The agenda includes a closed session for confidential matters such as land acquisition and negotiations. Most items are proposals for decision at this meeting.

• Offer to purchase from Mannat Gears and Differentials Inc.
• Minor variance application for 510 Wallace Street, Wallaceburg
• Zoning by-law amendments for 174 Erie Street North, Wheatley and Yellow Bridge Crescent, Wheatley
• Official Plan Amendments OPA 66 and OPA 68 for properties in South Kent and Wallaceburg/North Kent
• By-law to establish certain user fees

Natural Heritage Committee of the Whole

The Natural Heritage Committee of the Whole is meeting to receive information reports on a draft forest cover change map viewer and existing woodlot incentive programs, and to deliberate on privately owned woodlots. The meeting also includes routine approvals of minutes and agenda, and a land acknowledgement.

• Draft Forest Cover Change Map Viewer (Information Report)
• Existing Woodlot Incentive Programs (Information Report)
• Deliberations on Privately Owned Woodlots (presentation)

The Natural Heritage Committee of the Whole voted to depart from the status quo on privately-owned woodlots and to continue developing a more defined approach, including considering 'Step 2' of staff's decision tree and ongoing community consultation. It also directed staff to investigate 'Education, Incentive and Regulation' tools for woodlot preservation and report back with options. The committee received information reports on a forest cover map viewer and existing woodlot incentive programs, and adopted future meeting dates for March, April, and May 2022.

• Approved minutes from December 13, 2021 meeting (carried)
• Adopted 2022 meeting dates: March 21, April 11, May 16 (9-5)
• Departed from status quo on privately-owned woodlots; will consider Step 2 and continue consultation (10-4)
• Directed staff to investigate Education, Incentive and Regulation tools for woodlot preservation (12-3)
• Received information report on Draft Forest Cover Change Map Viewer
• Received information report on Existing Woodlot Incentive Programs

Council Meeting

Chatham-Kent Council is meeting electronically to consider several land disposition offers, approve local improvement by-laws for sidewalks and curbs, and receive reports on the Integrity Commissioner, a diversity strategy, and a working remotely policy. The agenda also includes closed-session items for proposed land sales and various routine appointments and road dedications.

• Closed session: proposed land sales at Blenheim Industrial Business Park, 45 Lorne Ave Chatham, and Beech St E/Walnut St E Bothwell
• By-laws for sidewalk and curb/gutter construction on Snow Ave Blenheim and Dovercourt St Chatham
• Offer to purchase for property on Store St, Chatham
• 2021 Integrity Commissioner Report and Municipal Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Strategy presentation
• Dedicated Gas Tax Funds for Public Transportation 2021-2022

Council approved several items, including increased remuneration for the 2022-2026 term, a sidewalk construction by-law for Snow Avenue in Blenheim, and a motion to transfer the remaining Wheatley Pool Reserve funds to the Wheatley Recreation Committee. A motion to explore a temporary outdoor skating area was also carried. One notice of motion on a compressed work week was deferred to the next meeting.

• Approved Mayor's training budget increase to $5,000 annually (13-5)
• Approved Councillor honorarium increase to $36,900 (10-8)
• Approved $1,200 annual Health Care Spending Account for Councillors (12-6)
• Approved Snow Avenue sidewalk construction funded from strategic reserve (14-3)
• Approved motion to develop report on temporary outdoor skating area (15-1)
• Approved transfer of $24,542.54 Wheatley Pool Reserve to Wheatley Recreation Committee (16-1)
• Approved DEI strategy support and promotion of council candidacy (16-0)
• Approved consent agenda items including committee reports and by-laws (18-0)

Budget Committee Meeting

This is a procedural meeting of the Chatham-Kent Budget Committee, held electronically, with no substantive agenda items listed beyond standard administrative matters. The committee is continuing its budget deliberation process and may meet again on February 3, 2022, if required. Public deputations are only accepted via electronic submission in advance.

• No specific budget items, dollar amounts, or decisions are listed on this agenda
• Public deputations must be submitted electronically to the Municipal Clerk's office by 3:00 p.m. the day of the meeting
• Notice given of intention to hold public meetings and adopt the 2022 Budget following committee recommendation
• Committee may meet in Closed Session during budget deliberations as permitted by the Municipal Act, 2001

The Budget Committee adopted the 2022 budget as amended, with a tax impact of 2.79%, and adjourned budget deliberations. The committee also approved a $95,657 reduction in lifecycle inflation base funding and a $130,000 increase in one-time interest revenue for 2022. Councillor Harrigan declared a conflict on the Residential Withdrawal Management Program item due to her employment with the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance.

• Adopted 2022 budget with 2.79% tax impact (10-8)
• Reduced lifecycle inflation base funding by $95,657 (11-7)
• Increased one-time interest revenue by $130,000 for 2022 (17-1)

Council Meeting

This is a brief electronic Council meeting with only three agenda items: call to order, disclosures of pecuniary interest, and the 2022 Budget. The budget is the sole substantive item for discussion or decision. The meeting then moves to a closed session and adjournment.

• 2022 Budget consideration
• Disclosures of pecuniary interest
• Resolution to move into closed session

Council approved the 2022 Municipal Budget as recommended by the Budget Committee, resulting in a 2.79% tax increase. The motion carried 11-7. Council also adjourned to its next meeting on February 7, 2022, and authorized a closed session for that day.

• Approved 2022 Municipal Budget with 2.79% tax increase (11-7)
• Adjourned to February 7, 2022 meeting and authorized closed session

Budget Committee Meeting

This is a procedural meeting of the Chatham-Kent Budget Committee. The agenda includes call to order, disclosures of interest, follow-up from previous meetings, deputations (by electronic submission only), general motions, and adjournment. No specific budget items or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda.

• Public deputations must be submitted electronically to the Municipal Clerk's office by 3:00 p.m. the day of the meeting
• Notice of intention to hold public meetings and adopt the 2022 Budget after receiving a recommended budget from the Budget Committee
• Notice that the Committee may meet in Closed Session during budget deliberations

The Chatham-Kent Budget Committee approved several amendments to the 2022 budget, including adding EMS service enhancements ($126,141 from reserves, $452,177 to tax base) and committing $200,000 to a tennis dome project. It also reduced Mayor and Council honorarium increases, delayed EMS enhancements to July 2022, and funded $43,153 from the Fuel Fluctuation reserve. Motions to adopt the budget with tax impacts of 3.14% and 2.93% were both defeated on 9-9 votes, so budget deliberations will continue.

• Added EMS service enhancements to 2022 budget (12-6)
• Committed $200,000 to tennis dome from Strategic Development Reserve (17-1)
• Reduced Mayor and Council honorarium increase to $4,807 (10-8)
• Delayed EMS service enhancement to July 2022 (14-4)
• Removed remaining $4,807 honorarium (14-4)
• Funded $43,153 from Fuel Fluctuation reserve (13-5)
• Defeated $10,000 Greenwood Cemetery grant (3-14)
• Defeated motion to adopt 2022 budget with 3.14% tax impact (9-9)

Budget Committee Meeting

The Budget Committee is meeting electronically to continue its 2022 budget deliberations. The agenda includes follow-up from previous meetings, deputations, previously approved items, recommended and not recommended items, police services, and general motions. The meeting is part of the public process leading to adoption of the 2022 budget.

• Police Services budget review
• Items recommended through other funding
• Items not recommended
• Public deputations by electronic submission
• General motions from the floor

The Budget Committee approved the 2022 Police Services Budget at $33,765,526, which is $250,000 less than the Police Services Board's proposal, and also adopted the police budget requests with a net decrease of $222,500. The committee directed administration to include specific labour-related provisions in the 2022 budget, including settled contracts ($1,148,261) and unsettled contracts ($2,236,997). It also approved reducing assessment growth funding to the reserve to $126,141, saving $650,000. The next budget meeting is scheduled for February 1, 2022.

• Approved Police Services Budget at $33,765,526 (10-8)
• Adopted 2022 Police Budget requests with net decrease of $222,500 (13-5)
• Directed administration to include settled labour contracts $1,148,261 (17-1)
• Directed administration to include unsettled labour contracts $2,236,997 (12-2, 4 abstentions)
• Reduced assessment growth reserve funding to $126,141, saving $650,000 (10-8)

Budget Committee Meeting

The Budget Committee is meeting to review new staffing requests and the Infrastructure Lifecycle Strategy. The committee will also move into a closed session to discuss personal matters, labor relations, and solicitor-client privilege.

• Overview of New Staffing Requests
• Infrastructure Lifecycle Strategy

The Budget Committee approved four motions that reduced or reallocated funding in the 2022 budget, primarily affecting infrastructure lifecycle items. These included removing $550,000 for underground infrastructure lifecycle, removing $676,000 for asset management plan lifecycle, reducing shoreline capital reserve base funding by $650,000, and lowering lifecycle inflation to 3.3% for savings of about $441,760. The committee also heard public deputations and received new information on staffing and infrastructure funding.

• Removed $550,000 for underground infrastructure lifecycle (18-0)
• Removed $676,000 for asset management plan lifecycle (15-3)
• Reduced shoreline capital reserve base funding by $650,000 to $1,250,000 (10-8)
• Changed lifecycle inflation to 3.3%, saving $438,935 (10-8)
• Changed area-rated lifecycle inflation to 3.3%, saving $2,825 (10-8)

Combined Council Meeting

Chatham-Kent Council is meeting electronically to consider a range of items, including seven zoning by-law amendments, several tender awards, and the 2022 capital budget. The agenda also includes reports on Next Generation 9-1-1 implementation, the 2021 BMA Municipal Study, and road ratings software. A closed session is scheduled to discuss a land purchase offer on New Scotland Line in Blenheim.

• Zoning by-law amendments for properties on Grand Avenue West, Park Avenue West, Grand Avenue East, Richmond Street, George Street, Richard Street South, and Elm Street West
• Tender award for Heron Line Bridge rehabilitation over Rivard Drain (Contract T21-316)
• RFP award for Thames River Slope Stabilization consulting services at 14239 Longwood Road
• Single source purchase of one aerial fire truck
• 2022 Capital Budget and 2021 One-Time Canada Community Building Fund allocation

Chatham-Kent Council approved the 2022 Capital Budget, allocating $1.9M from the Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund and deferring some projects to 2023 or later. Council also approved several zoning by-law amendments, including residential and commercial rezonings in Chatham, Blenheim, Ridgetown, and Bothwell, and a temporary outdoor patio by-law. A motion to waive notice for an immediate vote on COVID adaptive business practices was defeated.

• Approved 2022 Capital Budget with $1.9M OCIF allocation (16-2)
• Approved zoning amendment for Maple City Homes, 1001 Park Ave W (18-0)
• Approved zoning amendment for John Gregory, 360 & 364 Grand Ave E (17-1)
• Approved zoning amendment for Tatro Properties, 750 Richmond St (18-0)
• Approved zoning amendment for 2391571 Ontario Inc., 49 George St, Blenheim (18-0)
• Approved consents and zoning for 1936028 Ontario Inc., 23 Richard St S, Ridgetown (18-0)
• Approved temporary outdoor patio by-law until Jan 1, 2023 (16-2)
• Defeated motion to waive notice for immediate vote on COVID business practices (10-7)

Budget Committee Meeting

The Chatham-Kent Budget Committee is meeting electronically to review the Municipality's 2022 Draft Budget presentation. The agenda includes the budget presentation, potential written deputations submitted in advance, and departmental presentations. No decisions are listed on the agenda; the meeting appears focused on discussion and review.

• 2022 Draft Budget Presentation
• Electronic meeting with livestream on YourTV CK
• Deputations accepted by electronic submission before 3:00 p.m. meeting day