Hearst public meetings in 2022

Special Meeting of Council

The Town of Hearst is holding a special meeting to address the municipality's general liability insurance program contract. The discussion is based on a staff report from the Chief Administrative Officer dated December 22, 2022.

• Municipality General Liability Insurance Program Contract

Regular Meeting of Council

The Council met to finalize appointments for several local boards, including the Hearst Planning Board and the Hearst Police Services Board. The meeting also included the adoption of multiple committee reports and a notice of motion regarding single-use plastics.

• Appointment of Mayor Roger Sigouin, Daniel Lemaire, and Martin Lanoix to the Hearst Planning Board
• Appointment of Councillor Joël Lauzon to the Hearst Public Library Board
• Appointment of Mayor Roger Sigouin and Councillor Gaëtan Baillargeon to the Hearst Police Services Board
• Appointment of Councillors Josée Vachon and Nicolas Picard to the Hearst Connect Corporation board
• Notice of motion by Councillor Lauzon for a feasibility study to eliminate single-use plastic

Finance Committee

The committee is reviewing a request to increase CUPE and non-union employee salary adjustments from 1.75% to 3% effective January 2023. The agenda also includes information on the 2023 Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund and a proposal to create two new airport management positions.

• Proposed increase of CUPE salary adjustment from 1.75% to 3% effective January 1, 2023
• Proposal to increase mechanic's salary to $38 per hour
• Authorization of two flexible 'floaters' days per year for unionized employees
• Creation of Director of Airport Services and Airport Attendant positions
• Review of 2023 OMPF funding totaling $2,261,200

Planning Committee

The committee is reviewing a request to declare municipal land west of Halle Street as surplus. Members are also considering a zoning amendment for a garage at 64 Seventh Street and the assumption of an upgraded section of Collin Road.

• Declaration of municipal surplus land west of Halle Street
• Refusal of Roger Roussel's request to reduce the $24,083.05 sale price for land on Cessna Street
• Zoning amendment application for a garage at 64 Seventh Street to allow a height of 5.7 meters
• Resolution to assume and open the upgraded section of Collin Road south of Bosnick Road
• Information regarding Bill 23, the More Homes Built Faster Act, 2022

Police Services Board

The Board reviewed the June to September 2022 detachment report, noting a decrease in collisions and violent crimes. Discussions included proposals for emergency notifications to schools via CommunicAction and addressing heavy vehicle traffic on Rouse Street and Fontaine Drive.

• Proposal for OPP to use CommunicAction to notify schools during emergencies
• Implementation of targeted patrols and a speed sensor near École publique Passeport Jeunesse
• Report of 709 electronic tickets issued in 2022 compared to 952 in 2021
• Discussion regarding heavy vehicle traffic on Rouse Street caused by GPS routing
• Delegation request from Steve McInnis regarding police and media communications

Policy Committee

The committee is considering a by-law amendment to change how council members are appointed to the Hearst Power Sales and Services Company board. Other items include renewing integrity commissioner services and adopting new workplace policies regarding electronic monitoring and disconnecting from work.

• Amendment to Hearst Power Sales and Services Shareholder Declaration to decouple council seats from the electric distribution company
• Resolution to renew Integrity Commissioner services agreement with E4M
• Adoption of a Disconnecting from Work Policy by-law
• Adoption of an Electronic Monitoring of Employees Policy by-law
• Authorization for officials to attend 2023 Ontario Good Roads Association and Rural Ontario Municipal Association conferences

Parks and Recreation Committee

The Parks and Recreation Committee is reviewing a request to pay JL Richards & Associates Ltd. for additional consultation services. These costs stem from unexpected onsite conditions and revisions required for the Claude Larose Recreation Centre and Stéphane Lecours Swimming Pool rehabilitation project. The committee is also reviewing an ice surface allocation policy, which is currently a work in progress.

• Resolution to authorize $110,918.74 + HST to JL Richards & Associates Ltd. for additional services
• Claude Larose Recreation Centre and Stéphane Lecours Swimming Pool rehabilitation project
• Discussion of ice surface allocation policy (work in progress)
• Use of $358,740.00 contingency fund to cover project overages

Economic Development Committee

The committee is reviewing reports on the Anti-Indigenous Racism Symposium and the potential implications of joining the Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities. Members will also receive information regarding several upcoming local events.

• Report on the Anti-Indigenous Racism Symposium
• Study of implications regarding joining the Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities
• 2022 Destination Hearst event report
• Northern Corridor Chamber of Commerce Find Rudolph Campaign report
• Light Up Hearst event report

Regular Meeting of Council

The Hearst Council met to approve several community initiatives and administrative updates. Key decisions included providing in-kind support to the Hearst Golf Club and formalizing a $100,000 loan to the Hearst Power Sales and Services Company.

• In-kind contribution of Public Works equipment and staff to the Hearst Golf Club for tree transplantation
• Adoption of the 2022 Hearst Drinking Water System inspection report
• Authorization for the Knights of Columbus to install a Christmas tree in Nations' Park
• Approval of a billboard for the Knights of Columbus at the Gilles Gagnon Welcome Centre
• Adoption of a promissory note for a $100,000 loan to the Hearst Power Sales and Services Company

Assermentation des élus-es / Swearing-in of Elected Officials

The meeting agenda is limited to the swearing-in ceremony for elected officials. No other business or legislative items are listed in the provided text.

Special Meeting of Council

The Council is reviewing an agreement for Agence Familigarde to join the Canada-Wide Early Learning Child Care Program. Other items include a loan application for the Foyer des pionniers and discussions regarding municipal vehicle purchases and water plant repairs.

• Agreement for Agence Familigarde to participate in the Canada-Wide Early Learning Child Care Program
• Loan application to Infrastructure Ontario for a twelve bed addition at Foyer des pionniers
• Purchase of municipal vehicles deferred to the 2023 budget
• Hiring a firm for professional services for the Hearst water treatment plant reservoirs rehabilitation project
• Potential litigation (closed meeting)

Regular Meeting of Council

The Town of Hearst Council met to conduct various municipal business, including personnel appointments and committee reports. Key actions included appointing Jean-Michel Chabot as Fire Chief and authorizing an agreement for the Bouts de chou Day Care Centre.

• Appointment of Jean-Michel Chabot as Fire Chief
• Agreement for Bouts de chou Day Care Centre to join the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care System
• Consent for a residential lot addition at 53 Fifth Street
• Establishment of a Joint Election Compliance Audit Committee
• Addition of a seat to the Long-Term Care Committee for the Nord-Aski Family Health Team

Finance Committee

The committee is reviewing financial resolutions for the Hearst Power Sales and Services Company and a priority capital budget item for an ice resurfacer. Other items include funding for fiber optic internet at municipal buildings and reports on OPP cost recovery and community contributions.

• Promissory note of $100,000 for Hearst Power Sales and Services Company
• Variable line of credit up to $200,000 for Hearst Power Sales and Services Company
• Priority 2023 capital budget commitment for a Zamboni Model 552 ice resurfacer
• $130,000 sponsorship agreement with Pepco for the ice resurfacer
• $6,200 budget allocation for fiber optic internet at four municipal sites

Operations Committee

The committee is reviewing the René Fontaine Municipal Airport activity report and the 2022 annual drinking water system inspection. They are also considering a request for Public Works to assist the Hearst Golf Club with tree transplantation.

• René Fontaine Municipal Airport activity report including new aircraft de-icing and fuel distribution projects
• Resolution for Public Works to provide two days of non-priority labor for golf course tree transplantation
• Adoption of the 2022 Hearst Drinking Water System annual inspection report
• August 2022 water and wastewater systems operations report
• $10,000 annual budget addition for airport brush clearing

Regular Meeting of Council

The Hearst Council met to adopt committee reports and approve several local projects. Key decisions included funding for airport infrastructure and changes to municipal service delivery.

• Approved $295,275 funding agreement for René Fontaine Municipal Airport fuel system replacement
• Allocated $30,000 for gutter installation at Claude Larose Recreation Centre
• Approved $7,389.33 in total municipal and school tax rebates
• Discontinued lawn mowing services for local organizations by parks and recreation staff
• Appointed Martin Brunet as By-law Enforcement Officer

Police Services Board

The Board reviewed police reports and discussed several community safety topics. Key discussions included emergency communication for schools, heavy vehicle traffic on Rouse Street, and bear safety procedures.

• Proposal for OPP to contact CommunicAction to notify schools during emergencies
• Discussion of heavy vehicle traffic complaints on Rouse Street
• Request for a crosswalk at École publique Passeport Jeunesse
• Review of bear safety procedures and emergency contact numbers
• Report of increased break and enter property crimes

Economic Development Committee

The committee is reviewing several items related to the Town of Hearst's centennial celebrations and community programming. Discussions include hiring an intern, hosting local events, and honoring volunteers and Indigenous history.

• Proposed hiring of an intern using $34,999 in NOHFC funds and $11,500 from the municipal budget
• Resolution to waive the $750 Community Pavilion fee for the Lumberjacks season launch on September 16
• Forestry Week guided tours scheduled for September 24 at the Heritage Sawmill Marketplace
• National Day for Truth and Reconciliation event on September 30 featuring a $600 speaker fee
• Volunteer appreciation dinner at Le Companion with an estimated cost of $3,500

Policy Committee

The committee is reviewing an agreement to enroll Bouts de Chou Day Care Centre in the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care System. This program aims to reduce childcare fees for children under six. The committee will also review annual reports from the Ontario Ombudsman and the Town Integrity Commissioner.

• Agreement with CDSSAB for Bouts de Chou Day Care Centre participation in childcare program
• Ontario Ombudsman's 2021-2022 Annual Report
• Town of Hearst Integrity Commissioner Annual Report
• By-law to establish the 2022 Municipal Elections Joint Compliance Audit Committee
• By-law to add a Nord-Aski Family Health Team representative to the Long-Term Care Committee

Planning Committee

The committee will consider an application from Denis Pépin to add approximately 4,450 m2 to his property at 53 Fifth Street. The meeting will also include an examination of the possibility of selling municipal land west of Halle Street in a closed session.

• Consent application for lot addition at 53 Fifth Street (File C05-22)
• Examination of potential sale of municipal land west of Halle Street
• Review of building permit activities for June, July, and August (2021 vs 2022)

Regular Meeting of Council

The Town of Hearst Council met to approve several infrastructure agreements and appointments. Key decisions included funding for a waste disposal site environmental assessment and a water plant reservoir rehabilitation project.

• Approved $89,565 agreement with Pinchin Ltd. for waste disposal site environmental assessment terms of reference
• Approved $139,486 budget commitment for water treatment plant disinfection reservoirs rehabilitation
• Approved $108,550 contract with Villeneuve Construction Co. Ltd. for granular material on McNee Street and Cloutier Road South
• Appointed Myriam Bastarache as Property Standards Officer
• Denied École publique Passeport Jeunesse's request for a pedestrian crossing

Parks and Recreation Committee

The Parks and Recreation Committee is reviewing several infrastructure projects and service adjustments. Key items include a $30,000 gutter installation at the Claude-Larose Recreation Centre and a proposal to stop municipal employees from mowing non-municipal lawns.

• $30,000 allocation for gutter installation at Claude-Larose Recreation Centre west entrance
• Resolution to refuse Chantal Parent's request for a rent reduction at the recreation centre snack bar
• Resolution to discontinue lawn mowing for most non-municipal properties
• Authorization for free use of community pavilion and spin bikes for Rotary Club Spin-A-Thon on October 1st
• Authorization for a mural project under the 9th Street Bridge by Martine Laberge

Finance Committee

The committee is reviewing semi-annual revenue and expense reports for the capital and operational funds. Members are also discussing tax rebates, provincial offence board financial statements, and funding requests for airport and long-term care projects.

• Resolution for a $295,275 NOHFC funding agreement for the René Fontaine Municipal Airport fuel system
• Loan application to Infrastructure Ontario for a 12-bed addition at Foyer des pionniers
• Authorization of tax rebates including $10,608.01 in vacancy rebates
• Review of the June 30, 2022, Capital Fund budget variance report
• Review of the 2021 financial statements for the North Cochrane Provincial Offences Act Management Board

Operations Committee

The committee is reviewing updates on the reconstruction of St-Laurent Street, Pearson Drive, and Flood Place. Members will also discuss water and wastewater operations reports for May through July 2022 and consider appointing Martin Brunet as a By-law Enforcement Officer.

• Appointment of Martin Brunet as By-law Enforcement Officer
• Reconstruction update for St-Laurent Street, Pearson Drive, and Flood Place
• Water and wastewater systems operations reports (May, June, and July 2022)
• Removal of 'Drinking Water Treatment Strategy' from Work in Progress
• Report on heavy rain causing overflows at the Main Station and 5th Street Station

Special Meeting of Council

Council is considering a resolution to authorize an agreement with PSD Citywide Inc. to prepare Stage 1 of the Town of Hearst's Municipal Asset Management Plan, required by Ontario Regulation 588/17. The plan must be updated every five years; the last one was adopted in 2017. The contract cost is $37,400 plus HST, funded from the 2022 capital budget. A funding application to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities was submitted in May 2021, which could reduce the municipal share to about $8,000.

• Contract with PSD Citywide Inc. for $37,400 plus HST to prepare Stage 1 asset management plan
• Update required by Ontario Regulation 588/17; deadline for Stage 1 was July 1, 2022
• Plan covers roads, bridges, water, wastewater, and stormwater assets
• Funding application to Federation of Canadian Municipalities may reduce municipal cost to about $8,000
• Adoption of confirmatory by-law

Regular Meeting of Council

At this regular meeting, Hearst Council will receive presentations on the Town's 2021 consolidated financial statements, the terms of reference for an environmental assessment of the municipal waste disposal site's capacity, and the Claybelt Agriculture Project. Council will also consider reports from its operations, policy, and economic development committees, including completion of the St-Laurent Street, Flood Place, and Pearson Drive local improvement project, and a donation request from the Hearst H.O.G. Chapter.

• Presentation of Town of Hearst 2021 consolidated financial statements by Baker Tilly HKC
• Terms of Reference for environmental assessment of waste disposal site capacity (Pinchin Ltd)
• Presentation of Claybelt Agriculture Project by Commerce Management Group
• Completion of St-Laurent Street, Flood Place and Pearson Drive Local Improvement Project in 2022
• Request for donation from the Hearst H.O.G. Chapter

Special Meeting of Council

Council is holding a special meeting to decide on a contract for the Claude Larose Recreation Centre and Stéphane Lecours Swimming Pool upgrades. Staff recommend approving the full project with cost-cutting measures, financed from reserve funds with a repayment plan. The meeting also includes adoption of a confirmatory by-law.

• Contract with Quinan Construction Limited for recreation centre and pool upgrades, total cost $6,675,412 after cost savings
• Cost savings of $583,588 proposed by Quinan Construction
• Four options for project scope, ranging from full scope without savings to reduced scope without storage add-on
• Financing from reserve funds with proposed annual repayment of $300,000 over 15 years
• Replacement of electric water heaters with gas-fired units at additional cost of $13,950

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee is recommending that Council approve a $3,125 budgetary allocation to sponsor the Médias de l'épinette noire's 2022 Community Pride campaign, conditional on the participation of five main partners and on online sales being exclusive to businesses established in Hearst's commercial sectors. The committee is also receiving, for information only, an addition to the 2022 centennial activities program: the Constance Lake First Nations annual pow-wow, to be held at the Claude-Larose recreational centre.

• Proposed $3,125 allocation to Médias de l'épinette noire's 2022 Community Pride campaign
• Condition: online sales exclusive to businesses in Hearst's commercial sectors
• Campaign activities planned August–December 2022, including vox-pop, radio interviews, and an online sales boutique
• Addition of Constance Lake First Nations pow-wow to 2022 centennial program (information only)
• Pow-wow to be held at Centre récréatif Claude-Larose (Patinoire Claude Giroux and La Limite)

Policy Committee

The Policy Committee is recommending that Council adopt a by-law delegating certain powers to the Chief Administrative Officer during the 2022 lame-duck period (Aug 19–Nov 15), when Council's powers are restricted by the Municipal Act. The committee also recommends appointing three new directors to the Centre-ville Hearst Downtown board. A report from Centre Éducatôt Hub is provided for information.

• By-law to delegate to CAO powers to appoint/hire/fire officers/employees, dispose of property over $50,000, and incur expenses/debt over $50,000 during lame-duck period
• Resolution to appoint Fanny Lachance, Guillaume Rheault, and Lina Caron to Centre-ville Hearst Downtown board
• Centre Éducatôt Hub report: daycare occupancy rates, staffing, summer program, COVID plan, licensing (2 non-conformities at Garderie Bouts de chou)
• ON YVA centre: summer activities, recruitment, virtual program, participation numbers

Special Meeting of Council

Council is deciding whether to authorize a contract with Quinan Construction Limited for the full rehabilitation of the Claude Larose Recreation Centre and Stéphane Lecours Swimming Pool, with proposed cost-cutting measures reducing the total construction cost to $6,675,412. The project would be financed from municipal reserve funds with a 15-year repayment plan. Council will also consider a report from the Parks and Recreation Committee and a $14,800 roof repair for the recreation centre main entrance.

• Contract with Quinan Construction for recreation centre and pool upgrades, total construction cost $6,675,412 (down from $7,259,000)
• Financing from reserve funds with estimated annual repayment of $300,000 over 15 years
• Cost savings of $583,588 proposed by Quinan Construction, including replacement of electric water heaters with gas units
• Additional budget allocation of $14,800 for flat roof repair at Claude Larose Recreation Centre main entrance by Designed Roofing Inc.
• Adoption of Parks and Recreation Committee report dated July 7, 2022

Operations Committee

The Operations Committee is recommending that Council approve several by-laws, including a contract with Pinchin Ltd. to prepare Terms of Reference for an environmental assessment of the municipal waste disposal site, which is over its approved capacity. The committee also recommends appointing a Property Standards Officer, signing a funding agreement for drinking water reservoir rehabilitation, and awarding a road granular material contract.

• Contract with Pinchin Ltd. for Terms of Reference for waste disposal site environmental assessment, estimated at $73,825 plus other costs
• Appointment of Myriam Bastarache as Property Standards Officer
• Funding agreement with Ministry of Infrastructure for rehabilitation of Hearst Drinking Water Plant Disinfection Reservoirs under ICIP Green Infrastructure stream
• Contract with Villeneuve Construction Co. Ltd. for granular material application on McNee Road and Cloutier Road South at $108,550
• Resolution to refuse pedestrian crosswalk request on 9th Street near École Passeport Jeunesse and Université de Hearst

Parks and Recreation Committee

The Parks and Recreation Committee is recommending Council authorize a contract with Quinan Construction Limited for the full rehabilitation of the Claude Larose Recreation Centre and Stéphane Lecours Swimming Pool, including proposed cost-cutting measures and replacement of gas water heaters. The project would be financed from municipal reserve funds with a 15-year repayment plan. The recommendation follows a staff report outlining four options with varying scope and cost, with the recommended option totaling $6,675,412 in construction costs.

• Contract with Quinan Construction Limited for Claude Larose Recreation Centre and Stéphane Lecours Swimming Pool rehabilitation, total construction cost $6,675,412 (down from $7,259,000)
• Proposed cost savings of $583,588, including deletion of duct cleaning, engineered shop drawings, and changes to piping, chlorinator, tile, and grout
• Replacement of 3 electric water heaters with gas-fired units at additional cost of $13,950
• Financing from reserve funds with estimated annual repayment of $300,000 over 15 years
• Project includes $3,449,800 in ICIP revenues and $1,254,800 municipal contribution per By-law No. 43-22

Regular Meeting of Council

Hearst Council is holding its regular meeting to hear the Fire Department's 2022 annual report, adopt committee reports, and discuss the Claude Larose Recreation Centre and Stéphane Lecours Swimming Pool upgrades project. The agenda also includes routine items like adopting minutes and correspondence, plus a closed-session appointment to the Hearst Connect Corporation board.

• Fire Prevention Officer presents Fire Department 2022 annual report
• Claude Larose Recreation Centre and Stéphane Lecours Swimming Pool upgrades project discussed
• Adoption of Operations, Parks and Recreation, and Finance Committee reports
• Appointment of director to Hearst Connect Corporation board (closed session)
• Correspondence on Keira's Law and retention of professional engineers

Police Services Board

The Hearst Police Services Board is meeting to discuss ongoing projects and new subjects, including excessive speed in school zones, police presence in schools, and communication in emergency situations. The agenda also includes a presentation on a pedestrian crossing request for École publique Passeport Jeunesse and heavy traffic on Rouse Street. The board will review the Hearst OPP Detachment report from March to June 2022 and consider correspondence regarding the reappointment of Robert Cadotte.

• Discussion on excessive speed in school zones and municipal roads, including placement of speed sensors
• Presentation on pedestrian crossing request for École publique Passeport Jeunesse
• Heavy traffic on Rouse Street
• Communication in emergency situations
• Correspondence: Solicitor General re: reappointment of Robert Cadotte to the Hearst Police Services Board

Operations Committee

The Operations Committee will table recommendations at a public council meeting, including appointing Robin Beauchamp as a volunteer firefighter. Members will also receive information updates on a mobile live fire training unit, maintenance of Alary, Després, Lafond and Rosevear roads, the St-Laurent Street reconstruction project, and April water/wastewater operations.

• Resolution to appoint Robin Beauchamp as volunteer firefighter
• Hearst Fire Department to host Mobile Live Fire Training Unit June 29–July 5, 2022
• Response to residents' letter on Alary, Després, Lafond and Rosevear road maintenance
• Update on St-Laurent Street, Pearson Drive and Flood Place reconstruction project
• Water and wastewater systems operations report for April 2022

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is reviewing the Town of Hearst's non-consolidated 2021 financial statements, the Porcupine Health Unit's 2021 statements, and recommending ratification of the Hearst Connect Corporation 2022 budget. It also proposes tax rebate by-laws for two community clubs, renewal of an airport emergency building lease, and several small donations and appointments. The agenda is largely routine financial and administrative items, with no major policy decisions.

• Ratification of Hearst Connect Corporation 2022 budget
• Tax rebate by-laws for Club Action and Hearst Community Curling Club
• Renewal of emergency control building lease at René Fontaine Municipal Airport for 5 years
• Additional $1,000 donation to Hearst Ecomuseum for 2022
• Donation of $150 in promotional materials to summer basketball initiative

Parks and Recreation Committee

The Parks and Recreation Committee will consider several recommendations, including a $499,000 contract with CIMCO for refrigeration upgrades at the Claude Larose Recreation Centre, a five-year snack bar lease with Chantale Parent, and an increase in ice rental rates. The committee will also discuss a church's lawn mowing request, summer activities, camps, a new sports organization, and Johnson's Lake season.

• Contract with CIMCO for $499,000 plus HST for ice surface refrigeration system upgrades at Claude Larose Recreation Centre
• Five-year snack bar lease at Claude Larose Recreation Centre with Chantale Parent at $1,300/month
• By-law to increase ice rental rates and create a new 'tournament rate' for 2022-2023 season
• Resolution to refuse St. Paul/St. Matthew's Church request for municipal lawn mowing at minister's residence
• Information items: summer sports activities, 2022 summer camps, new HASTO organization, Johnson's Lake season

Regular Meeting of Council

Council will hold its regular meeting on June 7, 2022, to adopt minutes from three prior meetings, receive correspondence on provincial housing legislation and the Ontario Land Tribunal, and consider reports from the Operations, Planning, Policy, and Finance committees. The Finance Committee report includes a sponsorship request for the Chamber of Commerce golf tournament. No delegations, public hearings, or closed session are scheduled.

• Sponsorship request for Chamber of Commerce Business Drive golf tournament
• Adoption of Operations Committee report dated June 2, 2022
• Adoption of Planning Committee report dated May 31, 2022
• Adoption of Policy Committee report dated June 1, 2022
• Correspondence re: Bill 109 (More Homes for Everyone Act), Ontario Land Tribunal dissolution request, and emergency exercise exemption

Operations Committee

The Operations Committee is recommending that Council approve an additional $12,900 budget allocation to buy two municipal vehicles (a 2022 Chevrolet Silverado and a 2022 Maverick), increase the deposit fee for recyclable materials from Mattice-Val Côté to $350/tonne, and assist Notre-Dame Hospital by reducing waste disposal tipping fees by up to 50% once its expansion project is complete. Councillor Vachon declared a pecuniary interest in the hospital item and left the room. The agenda also lists two long-standing work-in-progress items (drinking water treatment strategy and septic dump station for RVs).

• Additional $12,900 budget allocation for two municipal vehicles (Silverado at $49,900, Maverick at $33,000)
• Increase deposit fee for recyclable materials from Mattice-Val Côté to $350/tonne
• Proposal to reduce Notre-Dame Hospital tipping fees by up to 50% after expansion project
• Hospital tipping fees estimated at $40,000–$50,000; potential revenue loss ~$50,000
• Work in progress: drinking water treatment strategy (since Oct 2014) and RV septic dump station (since Jan 2019)

Policy Committee

The Policy Committee is recommending three items for Council: appointing Annie Lemieux as Deputy Clerk with a salary increase of about $2,170/year, supporting Mayor Roger Sigouin's nomination to the AMO Board of Directors, and supporting the Township of Tarbutt's resolution urging the province to speed up approval of new medical residency positions at NOSM University for fall 2022. These are recommendations to be tabled at a public Council meeting.

• Appointment of Annie Lemieux as Deputy Clerk (by-law, salary increase ~$2,170/year)
• Support for Mayor Sigouin's AMO Board nomination (Northern Caucus, Northeast region)
• Support for Tarbutt Resolution No. 2022-64 on healthcare professional shortage
• Repeal of By-laws 4-16 and 2-22 as part of deputy clerk appointment

Planning Committee

The Planning Committee will consider a recommendation to authorize the sale of a surplus laneway portion (Part 29 on Plan 6R7128) abutting 60 Labelle Street to Johanne Rancourt for $1,282.59 plus HST. The committee will also receive information on a proposed agriculture land use amendment for Hearst and Kapuskasing and a summary of building permit activities. The meeting is tabled for presentation at a public meeting of the Municipal Council.

• Sale of surplus laneway Part 29 on Plan 6R7128 to Johanne Rancourt for $1,282.59 + HST
• Proposed agriculture land use amendment for Hearst and Kapuskasing (information only)
• Building permit activities comparison: April 2021 vs. April 2022 and May 2021 vs. May 2022
• By-law No. 73-07 (Sale of Land By-law) and By-law No. 60-98 (laneway stop up/close and sale) referenced
• Staff report from Director of Planning/Chief Building Official dated May 24, 2022

Special Meeting of Council

Council is holding a public meeting to hear comments on a proposed zoning amendment for Lots 2, 3, 4, and 5 on Plan 6M487 (part of Veilleux Subdivision). The amendment would change the zoning from R2 to RM1 to permit construction of four multi-residential buildings, each with four dwelling units, and would allow front-yard parking, a reduced rear yard setback, and a full-lot driveway width. Council will also consider adopting the Planning Committee's report and a confirmatory by-law.

• Public meeting on proposed zoning amendment for Lots 2, 3, 4, 5 on Plan 6M487 to permit multi-residential buildings
• Proposed zoning change from R2 (Second Density Residential) to RM1 (Multi-Residential)
• Requested variances: rear yard setback reduced from 7.5m to 4.7m, driveway width to full lot width, parking in front yard
• Additional budget allocation of $15,900 for Emergency Control Building foundation at René Fontaine Municipal Airport
• Proposed agreement with Daniel Fortin Construction for foundation system at cost of $79,500 + HST

Planning Committee

The Planning Committee is recommending a zoning amendment to allow multi-residential buildings on Lots 2, 3, 4, and 5 of Plan 6M487 (Veilleux Subdivision), with a public meeting set for May 24. It also recommends approving a $15,900 budget increase and a $79,500 contract for the airport emergency building foundation. The agenda includes two main items, both with staff recommendations.

• Zoning amendment from R2 to RM1 for Lots 2, 3, 4, 5 on Plan 6M487 to permit 4 multi-residential buildings (each with 4 units)
• Variances requested: rear yard setback reduced from 7.5m to 4.7m, driveway width to full lot width, parking moved to front yard
• Public meeting scheduled for May 24, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers, Hearst Town Hall
• Additional budget allocation of $15,900 for Emergency Control Building foundation at René Fontaine Municipal Airport, funded from 2022 Transitional Mitigation Payment
• Contract with Daniel Fortin Construction for foundation system at $79,500 + HST

Regular Meeting of Council

Hearst Council's regular meeting will hear a delegation from École publique Passeport Jeunesse requesting municipal support for a pedestrian crossing in front of the school. Council will also consider appointing a student by-law enforcement officer and adopt reports from the Operations, Parks and Recreation, and Finance committees. The agenda includes routine items like adopting minutes and correspondence, plus a closed session on human resources and potential land sales.

• Delegation from École publique Passeport Jeunesse requesting a pedestrian crossing in front of the school
• Appointment of a student By-law Enforcement Officer
• Adoption of Operations Committee report dated May 10, 2022
• Adoption of Parks and Recreation Committee report dated May 12, 2022
• Adoption of Finance Committee report dated May 11, 2022

Special Meeting of Council

This is a special meeting of the Hearst Town Council. The main item is a presentation from the Cochrane District Social Services Administration Board about potential funding opportunities for developing a multi-residential seniors housing project. No decisions are scheduled; the council is receiving information.

• Presentation on funding for a multi-residential seniors housing project
• Cochrane District Social Services Administration Board presentation

Parks and Recreation Committee

The Parks and Recreation Committee is recommending that council adopt a by-law to sign a funding agreement with the Ministry of Infrastructure for the rehabilitation of the Claude-Larose Recreation Centre and Stéphane-Lecours Municipal Swimming Pool. The committee will also discuss launching a second tender for the renovation work after the first received no bids, renewing a lease with Serco for drive test services, free summer tennis court access, hiring an aquatic services assistant director, and updates on Nations Park.

• Funding agreement for Claude-Larose Recreation Centre and Stéphane-Lecours pool rehab: provincial $1,568,003.18, federal $1,881,792, municipal $1,254,684.82, total $4,704,480
• Second request for tenders for recreation centre and pool renovations after first tender closed May 3 with no bids; ice-freezing system work to be awarded to Cimco
• Lease renewal with Serco for drive test services at Double Rink Tournament Hall, 14 months from June 15, 2022 to August 15, 2023, rent $130/day (up from $125)
• Free access to tennis courts during summer, supported by $500 donation from Hearst Electrical Distribution Corporation
• Hiring of Alexa McGregor as Aquatic Services Assistant Director, starting May 9

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is recommending council adopt the 2022 Business Improvement Area levy of $33,275, revised 2022 tax rates, and a $3.50 community bus user fee increase. It will also receive information on the Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund allocation and a new optional small business property subclass. The meeting is a working session; recommendations will be tabled at a public council meeting.

• Adopt by-law for 2022 BIA levy totaling $33,275, with per-property charges listed in Schedule A
• Adopt revised 2022 tax rates, including residential at 0.01817952 and commercial occupied at 0.01999747
• Increase community bus user fee to $3.50 and waive eligibility criteria temporarily
• Approve $48,224 additional 2022 operating budget for salary adjustments, recovered from 2023 salary budget
• Receive 2022 OCIF allocation of $613,379 for road and water projects

Operations Committee

The Hearst Operations Committee is meeting to discuss and recommend on several public works items, including a request for access to a property at 821 George Street from the municipal parking lot, a patio rental agreement at Hearst Theatre, and updates on the Pitch-In campaign and property standards violations. The committee will also consider resolutions on the airport committee dissolution and adoption of annual sewage lagoon reports. Most items are for information or recommendation to Council.

• Resolution to grant access to 821 George St from municipal parking lot, conditional on owner paying costs
• Resolution to authorize rental of parking space for portable patio at 816 George St (Hearst Theatre)
• Pitch-In Campaign 2022 runs May 16–June 17, with Treasure Hunt Week and Amnesty Week
• Update on property standards notices: 21+ owners cited in 2020–2021
• Resolution to dissolve Airport Development Committee

Regular Meeting of Council

This is a regular meeting of Hearst Town Council. The agenda is largely procedural, including adoption of minutes, correspondence, and committee reports. The main substantive items are an update on 2022 spring evacuations and adoption of reports from the Planning, Policy, and Economic Development committees. A closed session is scheduled for human resources matters.

• Update on 2022 spring evacuations
• Adoption of Planning Committee report dated April 19, 2022
• Adoption of Policy Committee report dated April 20, 2022
• Adoption of Economic Development Committee report dated April 21, 2022
• Closed meeting on human resources

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee is receiving information reports on four items: the reprogrammed 2022 centennial celebrations, the Aventure Nord marketing project, a regional agricultural project, and health professional recruitment efforts. All items are for information only, with no decisions recommended at this meeting.

• Centennial 2022 programming with a $141,000 budget
• Aventure Nord Phase III marketing project, $64,500 budget, 25% community-funded
• Regional agricultural project with $319,812.50 federal-provincial funding
• Health professional recruitment and retention update

Special Meeting of Council

This is a special meeting of Hearst Town Council with a single substantive item: discussion of the "co-gen" (cogeneration) project at the Claude Larose Recreation Centre, to be held in closed session. The rest of the agenda is procedural, covering opening, adoption of the order of business, and pecuniary interests. No decisions are listed on the public agenda.

• Discussion of cogen project at Claude Larose Recreation Centre (closed session)

Policy Committee

The Hearst Policy Committee is recommending council approve a 5-year janitorial contract with Melissa's Janitorial Services for the Gilles Gagnon Welcome Centre and Inovo Centre, renew the 2022 Workplace Health and Safety Policy, and allow free use of the community pavilion for the Jeux des aîné(e)s 50+ in May and June 2022. The janitorial contract follows the current cleaner's resignation and a single bid received.

• Janitorial contract: $16,529/year plus HST, 5 years (June 1, 2022 – June 1, 2027), with CPI-based inflation adjustments capped at 2.5% annually
• Contract awarded to Melissa's Janitorial Services after only one bid; cost is $1,033/year more than current contract
• Renewal of Town of Hearst Workplace Health and Safety Policy for 2022
• Free use of community pavilion for Jeux des aîné(e)s 50+ on May 17, 18, and June 1, 2022
• Agenda includes a work-in-progress item: review of municipal by-laws on business licences (dated Oct 6, 2015)

Planning Committee

The Planning Committee is reviewing a consent application from Nicolas and Mariane Picard to add approximately 557 square meters to the property at 32 Quirion Street. The committee will also discuss, in closed session, the potential sale of municipal land west of Halle Street and a proposal for lots for a seniors' multi-residential housing project. Building permit activity for March 2021 vs. March 2022 will be presented for information.

• Consent application C03-22 for lot addition at 32 Quirion Street, adding ~557 m² to the property
• Closed meeting: examination of selling municipal land west of Halle Street
• Closed meeting: proposal of lots for multi-residential seniors housing project
• Building permit activities report: March 2021 vs. March 2022

Police Services Board

The Hearst Police Services Board is meeting to discuss current projects and new subjects, including the recruitment of bilingual police personnel, the Lifesaver project, excessive speed in school zones, and the parking of heavy vehicles during road closures. New topics include homelessness, a lack of benches between the bridge east of town and the Inovo Centre, and bullying in school yards. The board will also receive reports from the Hearst OPP Detachment for 2021 and January to March 2022.

• Discussion on renting the Jolin lot from Villeneuve Construction for heavy truck parking during road closures, with an estimated $10,000 cost for staffing and snow removal
• Recruitment of bilingual police personnel, with three applications received from a September 2021 recruiting event
• Lifesaver project adopted in budget, with equipment to be ordered and a new employee to promote it
• Second speed display received to address excessive speed in school zones and municipal roads
• New subjects: homelessness, lack of benches between the bridge east of town and Inovo Centre, and bullying in school yards

Regular Meeting of Council

This is a regular meeting of Hearst Town Council. The main item is a presentation by Collège Boréal of its business plan for the Hearst Campus. Council will also adopt minutes from previous meetings, receive correspondence from various ministries and organizations, and consider reports from several committees, including operations, parks and recreation, and finance. A closed session is scheduled for a human resources report from the Chief Administrative Officer.

• Presentation of the Hearst Campus business plan by Collège Boréal (Daniel Giroux, Brian Vaillancourt, Michelle Lebel)
• Adoption of minutes from regular meeting March 15, 2022 and special meetings March 22 and 24, 2022
• Correspondence includes: Minister of Canadian Heritage re: suspending activity with Russian/Belarusian state organizations; Ministry of Transportation re: Safe Restart Agreement Funding; Ministry of Energy re: IESO; Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing re: Community Housing; Ministry of Solicitor General re: Emergency Management compliance; Ontario's Newsroom re: economic development, forest biomass action plan, agriculture/forestry/recreation; NOMA re: Conservation Agreement Proposal; letter to Hon. Greg Rickford re: Forest Access Roads Funding; Town of Mono re: Support to Ukraine; Town of Fort Erie re: Climate Change Action; CN re: donation for displaced Ukrainians; Université de Hearst re: graduate diploma in psychotherapy; NOSM re: expansion; CommunicAction re: 911 calls report for February 2022
• Reports from committees: Public Library Board (Feb 16), District of Cochrane Social Services Administration Board (Feb 17), Hearst Mobilization Committee (Feb 23), Town of Hearst Centennial Committee (Mar 21)
• Closed meeting: Report on human resources from the Chief Administrative Officer

Parks and Recreation Committee

The Parks and Recreation Committee is meeting to consider a recommendation to refuse the Knuckle Puck hockey tournament's request for a 25% rebate on ice rental rates, which would amount to $1,409 including HST. The committee will also receive information on the recreation centre's end-of-season schedule and a design brief for the recreation centre and swimming pool renovations.

• Resolution to refuse Knuckle Puck tournament ice rental rebate request (25% rebate worth $1,409 including HST)
• Knuckle Puck tournament scheduled April 23-24 at Claude-Larose Recreation Centre with 34 teams
• End of season ice schedule: University of Hearst rental April 1, figure skating show April 22, Knuckle Puck tournament April 23-24, two-ice tournament April 29-May 1, Cirque Benjamin May 4, Lumberjacks playoffs April 7-May 11
• J.L. Richards design brief (100% complete) for Claude Larose Recreation Centre and Stephane Lecours Swimming Pool upgrades
• Proposed temporary reduced ice rate for Hearst centennial events (minimum 40 hours over 4 days) discussed

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is recommending adoption of the Town of Hearst and Public Library 2022 operating and capital budgets, a 2% tax rate increase, and 2022 tax ratios. It also recommends ratifying the Hearst Power Distribution Company 2022 budget, authorizing a gas tax funding agreement, approving a $250 arts sponsorship, granting free use of the Heritage Sawmill for a theater residency, appointing Mireille Lemieux as Treasurer, and approving a list of payments totaling $4,857,083.18.

• 2022 operating budget: $14,128,100 (up 3.27% from 2021)
• 2022 capital budget: $8,662,900 (up 137.24% from 2021)
• 2022 tax rates: 2% increase
• Payments approved: $4,857,083.18 (Nov 5, 2021 – Mar 28, 2022)
• $250 sponsorship to Conseil des Arts de Hearst

Operations Committee

The Operations Committee will consider several items, including a resolution supporting NOMA and AMO requests for extended firefighter certification timelines and financial support for volunteer fire services, and a by-law authorizing a service contract with Christine Pominville for Lifeline services in Kapuskasing. It will also discuss parking revenue, GreenFirst effluent, a prefabricated house delivery exception on Collin Road, Blue Box program transition, and a request for proposals for an RV septic dumping station.

• Resolution to support NOMA/AMO letters requesting extended firefighter certification timelines and financial support for small rural volunteer fire departments
• By-law to authorize a service contract with Christine Pominville for Lifeline services in the Kapuskasing area
• Resolution to allow prefabricated house delivery on Collin Road during half-load period via Gaspésie, Bégin, and Bosnick roads, conditional on applicant paying for any road damage
• Resolution to publish a request for proposals for construction and operation of an RV septic dumping station within town limits, with option for municipal financial incentive
• Information reports on parking meter and ticket revenue, GreenFirst dry kiln effluent, Blue Box program transition, and water/wastewater operations for Jan-Feb 2022

Special Meeting of Council

At this special meeting, Hearst Town Council is reviewing the draft 2022 capital budget, which totals about $9.7 million in proposed projects. The budget covers major items like road rehabilitation, water and sewer upgrades, and recreation facility improvements. Council will discuss and potentially adjust these spending plans before final approval.

• Road work: $1.58M for St-Laurent, Mongeon, Pearson, Flood roads including storm sewer, sanitary sewer, and watermain
• Front Street Rehabilitation: $657,400
• Swimming pool ventilation system: $2,584,200
• Arena ice making system: $459,100
• Growth CIP for housing & labour attraction: $75,000

Special Meeting of Council

Council is meeting to give third and final reading to By-law 09-2022, which authorizes a local improvement project on St-Laurent Street, Pearson Drive, and Flood Place, and to approve a contract with Villeneuve Construction Co. Ltd. for the reconstruction works. The project includes storm sewer installation, concrete curbs and gutters, and paving, with costs shared between the town and property owners. A closed session on human resources is also scheduled.

• Third reading of By-law 09-2022 for local improvement on St-Laurent Street, Pearson Drive, Flood Place
• Contract award to Villeneuve Construction Co. Ltd. for reconstruction works, total $2,243,648 plus HST
• Property owners' share of project costs: $392,239.07; town share: $1,796,509
• 16 petitions received against project, not enough to stop it
• Closed session on human resources

Regular Meeting of Council

The Hearst Town Council is holding a regular meeting on March 15, 2022, to consider two proposed zoning amendments: one to allow a cabinet shop at 50 Eighth Street and another to permit the enlargement of the Claude Larose Recreation Centre. The agenda also includes routine items such as adopting minutes from previous meetings, receiving correspondence, and reports from committees. No delegations or public hearings are scheduled beyond the zoning notices.

• Proposed temporary zoning amendment for a cabinet shop at 50 Eighth Street
• Proposed zoning amendment for the enlargement of the Claude Larose Recreation Centre
• Approval of the 2021 Hearst Drinking Water System Annual Compliance and Summary Report
• Appointment of volunteer firefighters
• Adoption of reports from Planning and Policy Committees

Policy Committee

The Policy Committee is recommending several by-laws for Council approval, including appointing Janine Lecours as Chief Administrative Officer and Éric Picard as Deputy CAO for a three-month transition period, adopting a new Travel Expenses Policy, renewing Jason Levesque as director of Hearst Connect Corporation, and authorizing French language use and optical scan vote tabulators for the 2022 municipal elections. The committee also received an information report from the Centre Éducatôt Hub on daycare operations and is removing a work-in-progress item.

• Appoint Janine Lecours CAO and Éric Picard Deputy CAO effective March 21, 2022, for 3 months
• Adopt new Travel Expenses Policy for municipal officers
• Renew Jason Levesque as director of Hearst Connect Corporation until March 31, 2025
• Authorize French language use and optical scan vote tabulators for 2022 municipal elections
• Centre Éducatôt Hub report: daycare at reduced capacity, staffing shortages, proposed Hi MAMA software at $26.67/month per room

Planning Committee

The Hearst Planning Committee is reviewing several zoning and land-use items, including a temporary zoning amendment for a cabinet shop at 50 Eighth Street, a zoning amendment for additions to the Claude Larose Recreation Centre, renewal of an easement with La Maison Verte, and consent applications for rural lot severances. The committee will make recommendations to Council, with public meetings scheduled for March 15, 2022. Councillor Lanoix declared a pecuniary interest in the cabinet shop item and left the room.

• Temporary zoning amendment for cabinet shop at 50 Eighth Street, max 3 years, application fee $750
• Zoning amendment for additions at Claude Larose Recreation Centre
• Renewal of 20-year easement with La Maison Verte for access on municipal land
• Consent applications for rural lot severances from Lot 10, Concession 11, Way Township (McNee Street)
• Building permit activities summary for February 2021 vs. February 2022

Special Meeting of Council

At this special meeting, the Hearst Town Council will discuss and potentially vote on repealing its COVID-19 vaccination policy for employees, volunteers, and contractors, following the province's lifting of vaccine proof requirements. The council will also hold a closed session on human resources and consider hiring a new Chief Administrative Officer, with a resolution expected after the closed session.

• Resolution to repeal the COVID-19 vaccination policy (By-law 94-21)
• Closed session on human resources
• Resolution to hire a Chief Administrative Officer
• Adoption of confirmatory by-law

Special Meeting of Council

This is a special meeting of the Hearst Town Council. The only substantive item is a closed-session discussion about hiring a Chief Administrative Officer. The rest of the agenda is procedural.

• Closed session on hiring a Chief Administrative Officer

Regular Meeting of Council

At this regular meeting, Hearst Council will receive a 60% design brief presentation for the recreation centre and swimming pool renovation, and consider a budget allocation for a co-gen feasibility study at the Claude Larose Recreation Centre. The agenda also includes adoption of committee reports and routine correspondence. No public hearings are scheduled.

• Presentation of 60% design brief for recreation centre and swimming pool renovation
• Budget allocation for co-gen feasibility study at Claude Larose Recreation Centre
• Adoption of Operations Committee report (Feb 15, 2022)
• Adoption of Parks and Recreation Committee report (Feb 17, 2022)
• Correspondence from Brantford and Halton Hills on justice and Ontario Land Tribunal

Finance Committee

The Hearst Finance Committee is reviewing the 2022 draft operating budget at this meeting. The item is for information only, with no recommendation for action. The draft budget is appended to the March 30, 2022 Finance Committee documents.

• Review of 2022 draft operating budget

Parks and Recreation Committee

The Parks and Recreation Committee is reviewing plans to reopen the Stéphane-Lecours municipal pool in September 2022, including posting a job for an Aquatic Services Assistant Director, and to cancel the 2022 Volunteer Recognition Event. They will also receive a 60% design brief from JL Richards for renovations to the Claude-Larose recreation centre and pool, to be presented to Council on February 23, 2022. The committee is gathering input for Council decisions on summer programs, lifeguard services at Johnson's Lake, and other recreation matters.

• Job posting for Aquatic Services Assistant Director to prepare for pool reopening in September 2022
• Resolution to cancel the 2022 Volunteer Recognition Event
• 60% design brief for recreation centre and pool renovations by JL Richards, to be presented to Council Feb 23
• Summer camps for children ages 4-12 (7 weeks, including 4 swimming weeks)
• Lifeguard services at Johnson's Lake and potential reopening of La Limite youth program

Operations Committee

The Operations Committee is recommending council adopt several by-laws, including appointing an alternate emergency management coordinator, appointing two by-law enforcement officers, and renewing the Fire Chief's service contract for nine months. The committee will also receive updates on the landfill site capacity, a funding agreement for the Gaspésie Road rehabilitation, and the 10-year public works plan.

• Renew Fire Chief Jean-Marc St-Amour's contract for 9 months at $2,113.28/month plus allowances
• Appoint Derek Giguère and Myriam Bastarache as By-law Enforcement Officers
• Appoint Director of Planning/Chief Building Official as alternate Community Emergency Management Coordinator
• Authorize funding agreement with Ministry of Northern Development for Gaspésie Road rehabilitation
• Update on municipal landfill capacity and discussions with Ministry of Environment

Regular Meeting of Council

The Hearst Town Council is holding its regular meeting to adopt the 2022 interim tax levy, approve committee reports, and handle routine correspondence and minutes. The agenda includes decisions on parking enforcement, a seniors housing project, and COVID-19-related rent relief for the recreation centre snack bar.

• Adoption of By-law 06-2022 establishing the 2022 interim property tax levy
• Authorization of a Letter of Intent with CGV Developments Inc. for a multi-residential seniors housing project
• Amendment to Traffic By-law 17-81 to allow parking enforcement on Canadian Tire Gas Bar property
• Reduction and cancellation of snack bar rent at the recreation centre due to COVID-19 restrictions
• Approval for Hearst Lumberjacks to use recreation centre during COVID-19 shutdown if league obtains elite athlete status

Operations Committee

The Operations Committee is recommending that council designate the St-Laurent Street, Pearson Drive and Flood Place local improvement project as a priority commitment of the 2022 capital budget and adopt a by-law in first and second reading to authorize the work. The project includes water and sewer repairs, concrete curbs, sidewalks, asphalt, and storm sewers. The only bid received was from Villeneuve Construction for $2,243,648 plus HST, with the town's share estimated at $1,795,858 and property owners' share at $392,890. The committee is also reviewing updates on the drinking water treatment strategy, septic dumping station for RVs, and proposed changes to the Lifeline program.

• Resolution to designate St-Laurent Street, Pearson Drive and Flood Place local improvement as 2022 capital budget priority
• By-law in first and second reading to authorize the local improvement project
• Sole bid from Villeneuve Construction: $2,243,648 plus HST
• Town share of project: $1,795,858; property owner share: $392,890
• Discussion items: drinking water treatment strategy, RV septic dumping station, Lifeline program changes

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is recommending a 3% increase to the 2022 water rate and no change to the sewage charge percentage, along with adoption of the 2022 water and sewer budgets. It will also review the MPAC cost estimate, approve the 2021 council remuneration report, receive the 2021 tax collection report, authorize a child care funding agreement with CDSSAB, and consider a $5,000 contribution to the Kapuskasing & District Chamber of Commerce.

• 3% water rate increase for 2022; no increase to sewage charge percentage
• 2022 water budget totals $1,205,800 in expenditures; sanitary sewer budget $659,000
• $5,000 contribution to Kapuskasing & District Chamber of Commerce for Northeastern Corridor Business Guide
• Renewal of 2022 child care funding agreement with Cochrane District Social Services Administration Board
• Approval of 2021 Council members remuneration report

Policy Committee

The Policy Committee is recommending that Council approve a three-year janitorial contract with Mélissa Chabot (Melissa's Janitorial Services) for the Public Works garage at 416 George Street, at an annual cost of $11,593.23. The committee will also discuss filling two vacant seats on the Hearst Non-Profit Housing Corporation board, and consider resolutions supporting the national child care program and expansion of the Northern Ontario School of Medicine. A $1,100 budget allocation for a billboard sponsorship under the 'It Takes a Forest' campaign is also on the agenda.

• Janitorial contract with Mélissa Chabot (Melissa's Janitorial Services) for Public Works garage, $11,593.23/year, Feb 8 2022 to Feb 8 2025
• Vacant seats on Hearst Non-Profit Housing Corporation board; closed session discussion and appointment resolution
• Resolution supporting City of St. Catharines' call for Ontario to join national child care program
• Resolution supporting NOMA's request to expand Northern Ontario School of Medicine (NOSM)
• Budget allocation of $1,100 for 'It Takes a Forest' billboard sponsorship

Special Meeting of Council

This is a special meeting of Hearst Town Council. The only substantive item is a proposal from Hearst Power Company for a microgrid project, which will be discussed in a closed session. The rest of the agenda is procedural.

• Microgrid project proposal from Hearst Power Company (closed session)

Planning Committee

The Planning Committee is recommending that Council adopt an Industrial Community Improvement Plan (I-CIP) for three districts (Airport, Highway 11/Marchildon Road, and Gaspésie Road) to stimulate industrial investment. The committee also recommends authorizing public notices for two temporary zoning amendments: one for a cabinet shop at 50 Eighth Street and one for additions at the Claude Larose Recreation Centre. Councillor Lanoix declared a pecuniary interest in the cabinet shop item and left the room. The agenda also includes informational items on changes to the Planning Act and building permit activity.

• Adoption of Industrial Community Improvement Plan (I-CIP) for Airport, Highway 11/Marchildon Road, and Gaspésie Road districts
• Temporary zoning amendment for cabinet shop at 50 Eighth Street
• Zoning amendment for additions at Claude Larose Recreation Centre
• Information on Bill 13 and Bill 276 changes to the Planning Act
• Building permit activity comparison (December 2020 vs. 2021, January 2021 vs. 2022)

Special Meeting of Council

This is a special meeting of the Hearst Town Council. The only substantive item is a closed-session discussion about replacing the Chief Administrative Officer. No decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Closed session on human resources: replacement of Chief Administrative Officer

Special Meeting of Council

Council will consider a staff recommendation to ask the province for permission to reallocate ICIP grant funds for the Claude-Larose Recreation Centre and Stéphane-Lecours Swimming Pool renovation, after cost estimates rose nearly $1 million above budget. They will also decide whether to postpone the town's centennial celebrations to 2023 due to COVID-19 uncertainty.

• Reallocation request for $4,704,480 ICIP-funded renovation project (federal $1,881,792, provincial $1,568,003, municipal $1,274,685)
• Proposed postponement of centennial celebrations to August 3, 2022 opening, with events continuing into 2023
• Centennial budget: $150,000 in sponsorships, $95,000 federal HERITAGE FUND grant, $250,000 provincial funding request pending
• Pool and ice surfaces currently non-functional due to outdated equipment
• Postponed projects include arena seats, wheelchair ramp, and elevator shaft upgrade

Regular Meeting of Council

This is the agenda for the Town of Hearst's regular Council meeting on January 18, 2022. Council will consider adopting reports from its operations, planning, parks and recreation, finance, and economic development committees, including a 2022 interim tax levy and centennial celebration plans. The agenda is largely procedural, with no public hearings or delegations scheduled.

• 2022 interim tax levy (report from interim treasurer, draft by-law)
• Town of Hearst centennial celebrations (economic development report)
• Adoption of Operations Committee report (Jan 11, 2022)
• Adoption of Planning Committee report (Jan 13, 2022)
• Adoption of Parks and Recreation Committee report (Jan 13, 2022)

Parks and Recreation Committee

The Parks and Recreation Committee is recommending that council approve a rent reduction for the recreation centre's snack bar operator, Suzanne Alary, covering periods of inactivity due to COVID-19 restrictions and the summer months of May to August 2022, totaling $6,191. The committee also recommends allowing the Hearst Lumberjacks junior hockey team to use the recreation centre during the closure if they obtain elite amateur athlete status. Other agenda items are informational updates on the Claude Larose Recreation Centre and Stéphane Lecours Swimming Pool renovation, revised reopening guidelines, and a ten-year capital plan.

• Rent reduction for snack bar: $6,191 total (Dec. $476, Jan. $1,135, May–Aug. $1,145 each)
• Authorize Hearst Lumberjacks to use recreation centre during COVID closure if elite amateur status granted
• Update on Claude Larose Recreation Centre and Stéphane Lecours Swimming Pool renovation
• Revised reopening guidelines for ice surfaces (masking, vaccine passport checks)
• Ten-year capital plan (2022–2032) with projects like pedestrian bridge ($1,000,000) and pool air quality system ($726,000)

Planning Committee

The Hearst Planning Committee is recommending that Council authorize the Mayor and Clerk to sign a Letter of Intent with CGV Developments Inc. for a multi-residential seniors housing project in Hearst. The project would be funded primarily by CMHC and owned by the town or its non-profit housing corporation. The committee is also recommending sole-source procurement, citing a lack of local turnkey developers and labour shortages.

• Letter of Intent with CGV Developments Inc. for a 25-40 unit seniors housing project
• Sole-source procurement recommendation under the town's Procurement Policy
• CGV to cover pre-construction costs, including needs assessment and CMHC funding application
• CMHC financing terms: interest rate no greater than 3%, amortization no less than 40 years
• Exclusivity clause: Hearst cannot contract with other developers for similar CMHC-funded senior housing for up to 36 months

Operations Committee

The Operations Committee will consider a staff recommendation to maintain paid parking and enforcement despite COVID-19, despite a proposal for free downtown parking. It will also discuss amending a traffic by-law to restrict parking at 1404 Front Street, and receive information on the St-Laurent Street reconstruction project, new consolidated infrastructure permissions, and water/wastewater reports.

• Recommendation to maintain status quo on parking enforcement, rejecting free parking proposal
• Proposed by-law amendment to add 1404 Front Street (Canadian Tire Gas Bar) to Schedule 'P' for restricted parking
• St-Laurent Street, Pearson Drive, and Flood Place reconstruction project update
• New approach for consolidated linear infrastructure permissions for sewage and stormwater
• 2020-2021 Chief Drinking Water Inspector annual report and water/wastewater operations reports

Special Meeting of Council

This is a special meeting of the Hearst Town Council. The agenda consists of routine procedural items, with the main substantive item being a closed-session discussion of human resources. No decisions or specific actions are listed on the public agenda.

• Closed session on human resources
• Adoption of confirmatory by-law