The Archipelago public meetings in 2023

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment is reviewing two applications for relief from the Comprehensive Zoning By-law. One application concerns a garage expansion at 180 South Shore Road, while another involves a main dwelling ground floor area reduction at 311 Healey Lake Road.

• Teskey (180 South Shore Road): Permission to increase lot coverage by 55 m² for an attached garage and maintain a 4.0 m side yard encroachment
• Spehr (311 Healey Lake Road): Minor variance to reduce the minimum required ground floor area of a dwelling by 28.2 m²
• Election of Committee Chair and Acting Chair for 2024

Council Meeting

The Council will hold a public meeting regarding Zoning By-law Amendment Z04-23 for Island B494. The agenda also includes deputations from local organizations and the authorization of a municipal office closure for the Christmas holidays.

• Zoning By-law Amendment Z04-23 for 2540659 Ontario Limited (Island B494)
• Municipal office closure from December 25, 2023, to January 1, 2024
• PaBplex Community Initiative request for a staff liaison
• Parry Sound Library 2023 Annual Report and 2024 Budget deputation
• Parry Sound Area Chamber of Commerce deputation

Committee of the Whole

The Committee is reviewing several municipal items including a preliminary 2024 budget presentation and an organizational review. Discussions also cover local development initiatives in Pointe au Baril and various departmental updates.

• 2024 Preliminary Budget Presentation
• Pointe au Baril Housing Initiative: Phase 1 Discussion Paper
• Pointe au Baril Community Core Development Plan
• Bayfield Hwy 529A Plowing Agreement
• Organizational Review by Linton Consulting Services Inc.

Council Meeting

Council will consider a zoning by-law amendment for Aloka Investments Inc. at Island 1 A106. The meeting includes updates on West Parry Sound Emergency Medical Services and the West Parry Sound Recreation & Cultural Centre.

• Zoning By-law Amendment Z03-23 for Aloka Investments Inc. (Island 1 A106)
• West Parry Sound Emergency Medical Service (EMS) Advisory Committee update
• West Parry Sound Recreation & Cultural Centre project update
• Boyne River Group indemnification agreement by-law
• By-law A2108-23 regarding Island 106A zoning amendment

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment is reviewing a minor variance application regarding an accessory structure. The applicant seeks to allow a second storey and increase the maximum height by 1.9 m for a detached garage. The committee will also review minutes from the October 13, 2023 meeting.

• Variance for a two-storey detached garage (6.9 m height) under Application No. A13-23
• Approval of October 13, 2023, meeting minutes

Committee of the Whole

The Committee will review several municipal updates including financial reports and planning progress. Discussions include a brand strategy project estimate and a proposal regarding pumped storage facility regulations.

• Communications & Brand Strategy Priority Project Estimate from Dan Banko, Banko Creative Studio
• Proposal to amend Ontario Regulation 53/05 regarding pumped storage facilities
• Q3 2023 Quarterly Financial Update
• ROMA Conference delegation requests deadline of November 20, 2023
• October 2023 Building Permit Summary

Planning Board

The Planning Board is meeting to approve the October 12, 2023, minutes and authorize a transfer payment agreement. This agreement with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing is required to receive allocated funds for planning services.

• Authorization of Ontario Transfer Payment Agreement for $17,355 in funding
• Approval of October 12, 2023, meeting minutes

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment is reviewing an application to exceed maximum lot coverage limits. The request involves constructing a detached garage on a 0.45 ha property.

• Williams (Application No. A10-23): Variance for 12.5 m² over the maximum allowable lot coverage to permit a 46.8 m² detached garage

Council Meeting

Council will consider a resolution requesting that Ontario proceed with MPAC property assessments. The agenda also includes by-laws for East Crane Lake Road Association indemnification and a shore road allowance in Cowper Bay. A deputation regarding Isabella Island is also scheduled.

• Resolution requesting Ontario update MPAC property assessments
• East Crane Lake Road Association indemnification by-law
• Shore road allowance closure and sale in Cowper Bay
• Deputation on Isabella Island environmental guardianship and safety
• Authorization for Reeve to attend Great Lakes/St. Lawrence events

Planning Board

The Archipelago Area Planning Board is reviewing two consent applications. One application proposes creating a new residential lot at 200 Old Still River Road, while another involves a validation of title for 425 Highway 529.

• Consent Application B08-22: creation of one new 2.1 ha residential lot and one retained 1.8 ha residential lot at 200 Old Still River Road
• Validation of Title Application B04-23: property located at 425 Highway 529

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is reviewing several local reports and administrative updates. This includes a request for a no-wake zone in Pointe au Baril and a report on a recent railroad fire incident. The committee will also consider amendments to the 2024 council meeting schedule.

• Request for an official No Wake zone in Pointe au Baril
• Report on the Pointe au Baril Railroad Fire Incident and railway tie disposal
• Recommendation report regarding commercial waste
• Recommendation report regarding road speed data
• Shore Road Allowance recommendation reports for Hurley, Vanderberg, and Munro properties

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment is considering an application to allow a detached garage on a 0.45 ha property. The request includes relief from maximum lot coverage and minimum side yard setback requirements.

• Williams Application No. A10-23: variance for 19.1 m² over maximum lot coverage
• Williams Application No. A10-23: relief of 4.5 m from the minimum side yard setback
• Construction of a 53.5 m² detached garage

Council Meeting

The Council will hold a public meeting to consider Zoning By-law Amendment Application Z02-23 regarding Island B369. The agenda also includes a closed session regarding a proposed land acquisition or disposition and an update from the Georgian Cliffs Memorial Park Cemetery Advisory Committee.

• Zoning By-law Amendment Application Z02-23 (MacDonald)
• Committee of Adjustment application review
• Closed meeting regarding proposed land acquisition or disposition
• September 2023 CAO Report on Council Directions
• Georgian Cliffs Memorial Park Cemetery Advisory Committee update

Water Access Task Force

The Water Access Task Force will review minutes from the August 17, 2023 meeting. The committee is scheduled to enter a closed session regarding proposed or pending land acquisitions or dispositions.

• Approval of August 17, 2023, meeting minutes
• Closed meeting regarding land acquisition or disposition
• Discussion of land acquisitions

Committee of the Whole

The committee will review several departmental updates including finance, clerk, and corporate services. Discussion items include a brand audit presentation, a request for support from the West Parry Sound Health Centre, and a funding request for the Maple Syrup Festival.

• Brand Discovery and Audit Presentation by Dan Banko
• Request for $1000.00 for Parry Sound District Maple Syrup Festival
• Pointe au Baril Lands Housing Initiative status update
• Council Recommendation Report for a Roll Off Truck purchase
• Building Permit Summary for August 2023

Georgian Cliffs Cemetery Advisory Committee

The Georgian Cliffs Memorial Park Cemetery Advisory Committee will review updates on municipal flag and proclamation policies. The meeting also includes a discussion regarding the purchase of cemetery lands and Remembrance Day applications.

• Update on the purchase of the cemetery lands
• Remembrance Day 2023 Applications
• Municipal Flag Policy update
• Proclamation Policy update

Council Meeting

The Township of The Archipelago Council will review a contract extension for solid waste and recycling haulage with Adams Bros. Construction Ltd. The agenda also includes a zoning amendment for Rock Pine Resort Cottages Ltd. and a presentation from the Muskoka Watershed Council.

• Contract extension for solid waste and recycling haulage with Adams Bros. Construction Ltd.
• By-law to close and sell part of a shore road allowance in Cowper (Cox)
• Zoning amendment to remove the 'H' symbol for Rock Pine Resort Cottages Ltd. in Harrison
• Presentation by the Muskoka Watershed Council
• Committee of Adjustment meeting regarding one application

Council approved a Corporate Climate Action Plan targeting a 30% GHG emissions reduction by 2030. The board also passed a resolution requesting the Province of Ontario establish a regulatory framework for digital rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO.

• Adopted Corporate Climate Action Plan (Carried)
• Supported Town of Fort Erie's resolution for provincial regulation of Airbnb and VRBO (Carried)
• Approved Noise Control By-law exemption for 5 Tamarack Drive on August 19, 2023 (Carried)
• Accepted 2022 Consolidated Financial Statements prepared by KPMG LLP (Carried)
• Passed By-law 2023-33 to extend solid waste and recycling haulage contract with Adams Bros. Construction Ltd. (Carried)
• Passed By-law 2023-34 to close and sell part of shore road allowance (COX) (Carried)
• Passed By-law A2106-23 to remove Holding 'H' Symbol for Rock Pine Resort Cottages Ltd. (Carried)
• Recognized the passing of employee Kevin Campbell (Carried)

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment is considering an application to increase the floor area of a new sleeping cabin. The applicant seeks relief from zoning bylaws to allow a total floor area of 74 square metres at 48 Blackstone Lake Water.

• Minor variance for Crigger (Application No. A01-20) to increase sleeping cabin floor area by 34 square metres

The Committee of Adjustment denied a request to exceed the maximum floor area for a sleeping cabin. The applicant sought to build a 74 square metre cabin, which exceeds the zoning limit of 40 square metres.

• Minor Variance Application No. A01-20 for a 74 square metre sleeping cabin denied

Committee of the Whole

The Committee will consider a zoning amendment to remove a hold for Rock Pine Resort Cottages Ltd. Members will also discuss a resolution requesting provincial regulation for platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. The agenda includes updates on the corporate climate action plan and waste haulage.

• Zoning By-law Amendment to remove hold (Z01-23) for Rock Pine Resort Cottages Ltd.
• Resolution regarding provincial regulation for digital platforms such as Airbnb and VRBO
• Review of 2023 Second Quarter Financial Report
• Discussion on the Corporate Climate Action Plan
• Recommendation report on solid waste and recycling haulage

The Committee reviewed the 2022 consolidated financial statements and a second-quarter financial report. Staff were directed to bring forward resolutions regarding the audit and a request for a provincial regulatory framework for digital platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. The Committee also discussed potential new site alteration and tree preservation by-laws.

• Directed staff to bring forward a resolution for the 2022 audit to the August Council Meeting
• Directed staff to bring forward a resolution supporting the Town of Erie's request for a provincial Airbnb/VRBO regulatory framework to the August Council Meeting
• Directed staff to compile a report on problematic areas of draft Site Alteration and Tree Preservation By-laws after member review
• Directed staff to bring forward a By-law for solid waste and recycling haulage following an agreement with Adam Bros. Construction Ltd.
• Agreed to discuss a provincial study on asset management and governance once Terms of Reference are shared
• Requested staff to inquire with the Province about rebates for residents in 'out of scope' connectivity areas

Water Access Task Force

The Water Access Task Force will meet to approve previous minutes and discuss land acquisitions. The task force is scheduled to enter a closed meeting to deal with proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land.

• Approval of July 21, 2023, meeting minutes
• Discussion of land acquisitions in a closed meeting

The Water Access Task Force approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from July 21, 2023. The group entered a closed meeting to discuss land acquisitions before adjourning.

• Approved August 17, 2023 agenda (Carried)
• Approved July 21, 2023 meeting minutes (Carried)
• Moved into closed meeting at 3:16 p.m. to discuss land acquisitions (Carried)
• Moved out of closed meeting at 4:03 p.m. (Carried)

Planning Board

The Planning Board is considering a consent application from Aloka Investments Inc. to create one new residential water access lot. This request is a resubmission of an application originally approved in 2021 that subsequently lapsed. The proposal involves dividing the land into a 1.3 hectare lot and a retained 4.28 hectare lot.

• Consent Application B03-23: Creation of one new residential water access lot on Island 106A (Parcel 7600 PSNS)

Special Meeting of Council

The Council will hold a closed meeting to discuss litigation or potential litigation. This includes an Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) appeal for 133 Rattlebear Dr.

• OLT Appeal - 133 Rattlebear Dr (Wolff)-OLT-23-000400

Council Meeting

Council approved the expansion of the Site 9 Landfill and supported an application for a community FM radio station. Several shore road allowance closures were approved, and the township committed to purchasing 100 additional FoodCycler units for residents.

• Approved expansion of Site 9 Landfill for up to 40,000m3 with $35,000 pre-approved for 2024
• Supported Parry Sound Community Radio Association's CRTC application
• Approved purchase and distribution of 100 FoodCycler units (50 Maestro, 50 FC-30)
• Approved $1,000 to $2,000 in-kind support for Seniors Active Living Centre Program
• Adopted amended Public Art Policy
• Approved shore road allowance closures for Norma Walker, Jacqueline Ferkul, and Keri & Troy Michaud
• Approved $1,200 application fee refund for Dougal MacDonald (Z02-23)
• Declared August 5, 2023 Healey Lake Regatta a Municipally Significant Event

Water Access Task Force

The task force approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from June 15, 2023. The group entered a closed session to discuss the proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land. No other substantive decisions were recorded in the open session.

• Approved July 21, 2023 agenda
• Approved June 15, 2023 meeting minutes
• Moved into closed meeting at 1:53 p.m. to discuss land acquisitions
• Moved out of closed meeting at 3:03 p.m.

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment is considering an application to allow a sleeping cabin and deck to be built closer to the front lot line than currently permitted. The proposal includes a 18.82 m² structure with a covered deck at 1 B685 Island.

• Application A08-23: Variance for a sleeping cabin and deck setback at 1 B685 Island
• Appointment of Cale Henderson as Secretary-Treasurer

The Committee of Adjustment denied an application for a zoning variance to build a sleeping cabin with a reduced front yard setback. The committee also appointed a Secretary-Treasurer.

• Denied Application No. A08-23 for a sleeping cabin variance at 1 B685 Island
• Appointed Cale Henderson as Secretary-Treasurer of the Committee of Adjustment

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review several municipal reports including a landfill expansion project and a public art policy. Discussions also include shore road allowance recommendations and a zoning by-law amendment for Island B369.

• Site 9 Landfill Expansion Project
• Otter Energy Project Pivot – Municipal Office Solar
• NOHFC Grant PAB CC Meeting Room
• Shore Road Allowance Recommendation: Ferkul (SR04-23)
• Zoning By-law Amendment Z02-23 (Dougal MacDonald)

The Committee of the Whole reviewed several public works and administrative updates, directing staff to bring resolutions for landfill expansion, FoodCycler purchases, and a public art policy to the July Council meeting. They also agreed to support a funding application for a Senior Active Living Centre. A proposal for solar panels at the Municipal Office was deferred to August.

• Agreed to purchase 100 additional FoodCycler units (resolution to July Council)
• Directed staff to bring a by-law for $48,645 NOHFC grant for Pointe au Baril Community Centre (July Council)
• Deferred Municipal Office solar panel installation decision to August
• Directed staff to bring a resolution for the proposed Public Art Policy to July Council
• Directed staff to bring a resolution to expand Site 9 Landfill up to 40,000m3 (July Council)
• Directed staff to report on waste disposal fee options for residential dwellings on commercial properties
• Directed staff to bring a resolution supporting West Parry Sound District CSS funding request (July Council)
• Directed staff to bring a resolution for Shore Road Allowance SR04-23 to July Council

Planning Board

The Planning Board is considering an amendment to change a phased residential condominium to a standard condominium in the Township of Conger. The meeting also includes the approval of the 2023 budget and the appointment of a Secretary-Treasurer.

• Amendment of Condominium Application No. SB01-16 (N D McLennan / Crane Lake Condominium) from Phased to Standard
• Extension of draft approval conditions for SB01-16 to December 7, 2024
• Approval of the 2023 Budget
• Appointment of Cale Henderson as Secretary-Treasurer

Council Meeting

The Council will review various items including a presentation from the District Social Services Administrative Board. The agenda includes several community grant authorizations and property tax credit adjustments for landfill/transfer station properties.

• Community grant of $9,981.52 for Sans Souci and Copperhead Association
• Community grant of $242.82 for Skerryvore Ratepayers Association
• Community grant of $1,601.08 for Healey Lake Property Owners Association & Healey Lake Tennis Club
• Community grant of $33,452.30 for The Ojibway Club
• Tax credit adjustments of $1,140.40 (North) and $1,119.86 (South) for landfill/transfer station properties

Council authorized several community grants and approved the first phase of the Pointe au Baril Housing Initiative. The board also adopted a new municipal flag policy and approved a lease agreement for the Pointe au Baril Lighthouse. A request for a $2,625 refund regarding zoning amendments was defeated.

• Approved $49,808 plus HST for Phase 1 of Pointe au Baril Housing Initiative (Carried)
• Authorized community grants: The Ojibway Club ($33,452.30), Sans Souci and Copperhead Association ($9,981.52), and Healey Lake Property Owners Association & Tennis Club ($1,601.08) (Carried)
• Authorized community grant for Skerryvore Ratepayers Association ($242.82) (Carried)
• Adopted Municipal Flag Policy and approved ~$8,000 for a new flagpole at Pointe au Baril Community Centre (Carried)
• Denied $2,625 refund for Official Plan Amendment No. 68 and Zoning By-law Amendment No. Z02-20 (Defeated)
• Passed By-law 2023-24 for the Pointe au Baril Lighthouse Lease Agreement (Carried)
• Approved tax credit adjustments for landfill/transfer station properties: Total North $1,140.40 and Total South $1,119.86 (Carried)
• Deferred shore/concession road allowance application SR03-22-Norma Walker for one month

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee approved three applications for variances regarding building setbacks and height. One application for a sleeping cabin and deck was deferred due to a notice error. All approved works require building permits within two years.

• Approved Application No. A09-23 (Pomeroy) for a sleeping cabin side yard setback of 1.8m (Carried)
• Deferred Application No. A08-23 (Rees/Parker) due to Notice of Hearing error
• Approved Application No. A07-23 (Taylor) for a main dwelling height of 6.9m (Carried)
• Approved Application No. A03-23 (Smith) for a deck front yard setback of 2.44m (Carried)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss and decide on several administrative and planning items, including community grants, a voter list management services agreement renewal, a municipal flag policy, and an update on a housing initiative for Pointe au Baril. The meeting also includes a closed session for confidential financial and negotiation matters.

• 2023 Community Grants (Councillor Barton declared a conflict)
• Renewal of Voter List Management Services Agreement (DataFix)
• Pointe au Baril (PAB) Lands Housing Initiative update
• Official Plan Amendment No. 68 and Zoning By-law Amendment No. Z02-22 (GATES) refund request
• Pointe Au Baril Lighthouse DFO Lease agreement

The Committee of the Whole reviewed several administrative and planning items, directing staff to bring formal resolutions for community grants, a voter list agreement, and a flag policy to the June Council meeting. The committee also discussed a housing initiative for Pointe au Baril and a lighthouse lease agreement. No final votes on these items were taken during this session.

• Directed staff to bring four separate community grant resolutions to the June Council Meeting
• Directed staff to bring a by-law for Voter List Management Services (DataFix) to the June Council Meeting
• Directed staff to bring a resolution for the revised Municipal Flag Policy to the June Council Meeting
• Directed staff to bring a resolution approving the Pointe au Baril Housing Initiative project proposal to the June Council Meeting
• Directed staff to bring a resolution regarding the Pointe au Baril Lighthouse lease agreement to the June Council Meeting
• Directed staff to engage Banko Creative Studios for a press release regarding the GLSLCI AGM
• Directed staff to research thermal waste oxidation technology for waste management
• Approved motion to enter a closed meeting at 1:39 p.m. and exit at 2:44 p.m.

Water Access Task Force

The Water Access Task Force is meeting to approve its agenda and prior minutes, then will move into a closed session to discuss a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality. No other substantive public business is listed on the agenda.

• Approval of April 20, 2023 meeting minutes
• Closed meeting under Municipal Act Section 239(2) for land acquisition or disposition
• Item 6.2: Acquisition of Lands (closed session)

The Water Access Task Force approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from April 20, 2023. The group entered a closed meeting to discuss the proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land. No other substantive decisions were recorded in the open session.

• Approved June 15, 2023 agenda
• Approved April 20, 2023 meeting minutes
• Moved into closed meeting at 2:57 p.m. to discuss land acquisition or disposition
• Moved out of closed meeting at 3:42 p.m.

Special Meeting of Council

The Council will hold a special meeting on June 14, 2023. The agenda includes a closed meeting for the purpose of council education and training.

• Council Education and Training Session

Council convened for a special meeting and moved into a closed session from 1:02 p.m. to 3:40 p.m. for the purpose of educating and training members. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved the June 14, 2023 Special Meeting agenda
• Moved into closed meeting for member education and training (Carried)
• Moved out of closed meeting at 3:40 p.m. (Carried)

Council Meeting

The Township of the Archipelago Council is meeting to approve minutes, receive reports, and consider several by-laws, including the sale of a shore road allowance on Healey Lake. Council will also hear deputations from the Festival of the Sound and the Ojibway Club, and hold a closed meeting.

• Shore Road Allowance Purchase Mediation Meeting (SR03-22, Norma Walker)
• By-law to close and sell shore road allowance on Healey Lake (Lamothe/Owen)
• By-law to authorize indemnification agreement with William and Jane Ross (Bump Rock Road Association)
• By-law to appoint Theresa Tambasco as By-law Enforcement Officer
• Deputations: Festival of the Sound update and Ojibway Club grant application

Council adopted the Township's 2022-2026 Strategic Plan and approved a $10,000 sponsorship for the 2023 State of the Bay Conference. The board also passed several resolutions regarding provincial planning policies and floating home standards. A shore road allowance purchase request was deferred for one month.

• Adopted Township of The Archipelago Strategic Plan 2022-2026 (Carried)
• Approved $10,000 sponsorship for 2023 State of the Bay Conference (Carried)
• Approved By-law 2023-18 to close and sell shore road allowance to Lamothe/Owen (Carried)
• Approved By-law 2023-19 for Indemnification Agreement with William and Jane Ross (Carried)
• Approved support for Parry Sound Family Health Team's EOI application (Carried)
• Directed staff to submit comments to ERO opposing specific rural and settlement policies in Provincial Planning Statement 2023 and Bill 97 (Carried)
• Supported resolution requesting Transport Canada apply Victoria Harbour standards to floating homes in Ontario (Carried)
• Deferred shore road allowance purchase mediation (SR03-22) for one month

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment approved two applications for residential variances on Mayne Island and in the Township of Cowper. Both approvals require building permits to be secured within two years.

• Approved Application A05-23 for Thomglen 3 Ltd. to relocate and reconstruct a non-complying dwelling to 53.5 m² (Carried)
• Approved Application A06-23 for Susan Matthew to construct a 17.84 m² sleeping cabin and deck with a 4.5 m front yard setback (Carried)
• Approved May 26, 2023 agenda (Carried)
• Approved April 21, 2023 minutes as amended (Carried)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee agreed to move the 2023 Deerhorn Conference to avoid a conflict with National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Members also directed staff to bring several resolutions and by-laws to the May Council Meeting regarding floating accommodations, indemnification agreements, and the Code of Conduct.

• Rescheduled 2023 Deerhorn Conference to October 21, 2023
• Directed staff to bring a resolution supporting Georgian Bay Township's floating accommodations resolution to May Council Meeting
• Directed staff to bring an indemnification agreement by-law for Bump Rock Road Association to May Council Meeting
• Directed staff to submit comments to the Province regarding Provincial Planning Statement 2023 and Bill 97
• Directed staff to bring a resolution for the GLSLCI Annual General Meeting to May Council Meeting
• Directed staff to submit an AMO delegation meeting request prior to June 9, 2023
• Directed staff to bring a by-law to adopt the revised Code of Conduct to the May Meeting
• Agreed that Township facilities can be used for Ward Councillors' one-on-one meetings with associations

Georgian Cliffs Cemetery Advisory Committee

The Georgian Cliffs Memorial Park Cemetery Advisory Committee is meeting to review several administrative and operational items. The agenda includes discussions on land acquisition and maintenance updates.

• Purchase of Cemetery Lands
• Spring Maintenance Update
• Marilyn Capreol's March 30, 2022 Deputation Request
• Township of The Archipelago Flag Policy

The committee reviewed the application process to purchase the Georgian Cliffs Memorial Park Cemetery property from the MNRF. Members directed staff to organize a site visit with Marilyn Capreol regarding a request for indigenous funeral tradition space. The committee also discussed spring maintenance and the Township's proposed Flag Policy.

• Approved April 26, 2023 Agenda
• Approved September 13, 2023 meeting minutes
• Agreed to staff meeting with MNRF regarding cemetery land purchase application
• Directed staff to arrange July site visit with Marilyn Capreol regarding indigenous funeral traditions space

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment is meeting to review two requests for zoning variances. These applications seek relief from height and floor area restrictions for a sleeping cabin and a main dwelling.

• Application A14-22 (Tosswill): Request for a sleeping cabin with 56.9 square metres of floor area and 5.62 metres height at Concession 4, Part Lot 34.
• Application A04-23 (Wolff): Request for a main dwelling with a height of 7.5 metres at Concession 9, Part Lot 36.

The Committee of Adjustment approved a variance for a sleeping cabin's floor area and height. A request for a height variance for a main dwelling was denied.

• Approved Application No. A14-22 (Tosswill) for a sleeping cabin variance of 16.9 square metres in floor area and 0.62 metres in height (Carried)
• Denied Application No. A04-23 (Wolff) for a 1.5 metre height variance for a main dwelling (Defeated)

Council Meeting

The Township of the Archipelago Council is meeting to address the eradication of invasive Phragmites grass and discuss a draft strategic plan. The body is also considering a zoning by-law amendment and receiving reports from the CAO and the West Parry Sound District Museum Board.

• Resolution to implement best management practices for invasive Phragmites and join the Ontario Phragmites Working Group
• Zoning By-law Amendment A2105-23 for Island No. 231A (Parcel 17246 PSNS)
• Approval for Bert Liverance to attend Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Days on the Hill in Ottawa, May 1-2, 2023
• Discussion of the Revised Township of The Archipelago Strategic Plan 2022-2026 (Draft)
• Committee of Adjustment meeting at 1:00 p.m. to consider two applications

Council approved a comprehensive plan to implement best management practices for invasive Phragmites and requested provincial mapping and treatment of highways. The meeting also approved a shore road allowance closure and authorized the Reeve to attend an event in Ottawa.

• Approved stopping up, closure and conveyance of shore road allowance at 44 North Fork Road
• Approved implementation of Phragmites best management practices and joining the Ontario Phragmites Working Group
• Requested Ontario Ministry of Transportation to map and treat invasive Phragmites annually on all highways
• Approved Bert Liverance to attend Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Day on the Hill in Ottawa (May 1-2, 2023)
• Approved April 21, 2023 Revised Council Agenda
• Approved March 10, 2023 Regular Meeting minutes
• Approved March 9, 2023 Committee of the Whole minutes
• Received April 2023 CAO Report on Council Directions

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss the 2023 draft budget and several new administrative policies. The meeting includes updates on technology connectivity and public works tenders.

• 2023 Draft Budget
• Draft Municipal Flag Policy and Draft Code of Conduct for Council and Local Boards
• Shore Road Allowance Recommendation Report for 44 North Fork Rd (Van Wees)
• Micro-sealing Skerryvore Tender
• Letter of support for Parry Sound Public Library NOHFC Grant

The Committee of the Whole reviewed several draft policies and reports, directing staff to bring formal resolutions for the Skerryvore road project, library support, and the 2023 observances calendar to the April Council Meeting. The Committee also provided direction on the 2023 Deerhorn event attendance and requested a broadband void map. No final votes on expenditures or policy adoptions were recorded during this session.

• Directed staff to bring Skerryvore Community Road Micro-surfacing contract ($487,882.00 plus HST) to April Council Meeting
• Directed staff to bring resolution for Parry Sound Public Library NOHFC grant support to April Council Meeting
• Directed staff to bring resolution for 2023 Observances Recognition Calendar to April Council Meeting
• Directed staff to bring resolution for Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative topics to April Council Meeting
• Directed staff to bring Shore Road Allowance Recommendation Report (Van Wees) to April Council Meeting
• Directed staff to create a map identifying broadband voids within the Township
• Directed staff to invite specific cottage associations, First Nations, and environmental groups to the 2023 Deerhorn event
• Deferred Municipal Flag Policy to the May Council Meeting

Water Access Task Force

The Water Access Task Force met to approve previous minutes and conduct a closed session. The closed portion of the meeting focused on the proposed or pending acquisition of land by the municipality or local board.

• Approval of February 16, 2023 meeting minutes
• Closed session regarding acquisition of lands

The Task Force approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from February 16, 2023. Members entered a closed meeting to discuss the proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land. No other substantive decisions were recorded in the open session.

• Approved April 20, 2023 agenda (Carried)
• Approved February 16, 2023 meeting minutes (Carried)
• Moved into closed meeting at 3:40 p.m. to discuss land acquisition/disposition (Carried)
• Moved out of closed meeting at 4:12 p.m. (Carried)

Planning Board

The Archipelago Area Planning Board is meeting to consider two consent applications (B01-23 and B02-23) that would legalize an existing driveway right-of-way between properties at 49 and 53 Fox Back Road in the Geographic Township of Conger. The board will also discuss a required resolution regarding Special Case Funding from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing and receive an information item from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry. No other applications or business are on the agenda.

• Consent Application B01-23 (Docrat-Bamford/Bamford) to legalize right-of-way over 49 Fox Back Road in favour of 53 Fox Back Road
• Consent Application B02-23 (Jerry, Michael and Terri) to legalize right-of-way over 53 Fox Back Road in favour of 49 Fox Back Road
• Additional resolution required from the Board regarding Special Case Funding (Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing)
• 2023-2024 Annual Work Schedule for French-Severn Forest (Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry) for information

Special Meeting of Council

This is a special meeting of Council with a largely procedural agenda. The only substantive item is a closed meeting for a council education and training session under the Municipal Act. All other agenda items are listed as placeholders with no details provided.

• Closed meeting for council education and training under Section 239(3.1) of the Municipal Act, 2001
• Approval of the meeting agenda
• Confirming by-law to confirm proceedings of the meeting

Council convened for a special meeting primarily to conduct a closed session for member education and training. No substantive policy decisions or legislative changes were recorded in the open session.

• Approved the April 19, 2023 Special Meeting Agenda
• Moved into a closed meeting at 1:02 p.m. for member education and training
• Moved out of the closed meeting at 4:55 p.m.
• Passed By-law 2023-13 to confirm the proceedings of the meeting

Council Meeting

The Township of the Archipelago Council meets to approve minutes and receive reports on invasive phragmites and water levels. A public meeting is scheduled to consider Zoning By-law Amendment No. Z02-22 for 2540659 Ontario Limited on Island B494 (The Pines Island). Council will also vote on a by-law to renew the two-year contract with the Parry Sound Public Library Board.

• Public meeting to consider Zoning By-law Amendment No. Z02-22 for 2540659 Ontario Limited (Island B494, The Pines Island)
• Public meeting to consider Draft Zoning By-law Amendment No. A2105-23 and an Environmental Impact Study
• By-law to authorize a two-year contract renewal with the Parry Sound Public Library Board ending December 31, 2024
• Deputation from Georgian Bay Forever regarding the 2022 status of invasive phragmites stands
• Deputation from Georgian Bay Association and Georgian Bay Forever regarding water levels and an ECCC report

Council awarded a structural upgrade project for the Blackstone Lake Road Bridge and approved four separate road allowance closures and conveyances. The body also adopted a new Proclamation Policy and renewed a two-year contract with the Parry Sound Public Library.

• Approved $174,251.03 contract to McPherson-Andrews Contracting Ltd. for Blackstone Lake Road Bridge upgrades
• Approved closure and conveyance of shore and concession road allowances for 71 Healey Lake Road (Wurm)
• Approved closure and conveyance of concession road allowance for Allen
• Approved closure and conveyance of shore road allowance for Huntress
• Adopted the Proclamation Policy
• Approved two-year contract renewal with Parry Sound Public Library Board (By-law 2023-10)
• Repealed By-law 2016-24 regarding tax arrears proceedings costs (By-law 2023-11)
• Authorized Reeve Liverance and Councillor Sheard to attend GLSLCI meeting in Chicago

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment is considering an application for relief from the Township’s Comprehensive Zoning By-law. The proposal involves reconstructing a near-shore docking structure on Island 324A with changes to its total area and location.

• Application A01-23: Reconstruction of a near-shore dock at Island 324A (Bijou Island)

The Committee of Adjustment approved a variance for Application No. A01-23 regarding the reconstruction and reconfiguration of near-shore docking structures. The approval is contingent on securing building permits within two years and adhering to submitted plans.

• Approved Application No. A01-23 for dock reconstruction and relocation (Carried)
• Approved March 10, 2023 agenda (Carried)
• Approved November 18, 2022 minutes (Carried)

Planning Board

The Archipelago Area Planning Board is meeting on March 9, 2023, with a largely procedural agenda: approving the agenda and prior minutes, and moving into closed session for litigation matters. The only substantive item listed is a letter from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing regarding Secured Business Case Funding, which is noted under correspondence. No applications, rezonings, or decisions are listed on the public agenda.

• Approval of agenda and February 16, 2023 minutes
• Closed session for litigation or potential litigation under Municipal Act Section 239(2)e
• Correspondence: Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing letter on Secured Business Case Funding

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is reviewing the 2023 preliminary capital budget and structural upgrades for the Blackstone Lake Road Bridge. The meeting also includes discussions on municipal policies and several road allowance applications.

• 2023 Preliminary Capital Budget
• Blackstone Lake Road Bridge structural upgrades
• By-law to repeal By-law 2016-24 regarding tax arrears cost scales
• Road allowance applications for Debbie Wurm, Hayden Allen, and William Huntress
• Draft Municipal Flag and Proclamation policies

The Committee reviewed several administrative reports and directed staff to bring multiple resolutions to the March Council Meeting. Key recommendations included proceeding with a bridge structural upgrade and conducting a by-law analysis in the Skerryvore neighbourhood. The Committee also agreed that the Reeve should accept a regional lead role for the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative.

• Recommended Blackstone Lake Road Bridge structural upgrade via McPherson-Andrews Construction for $174,251.03 + HST
• Recommended by-law analysis of Skerryvore neighbourhood due to high complaint volume
• Recommended by-law presentation at Skerryvore Ratepayers Association's AGM this summer
• Agreed Reeve should accept Regional Lead role for GLSLCI Simcoe-Grey-Georgian Bay Region Working Group
• Directed staff to provide a Foodcycler unit to the Shawanaga Healing Centre
• Requested Municipal Flag Policy be shared with Pointe au Baril community for feedback
• Directed staff to bring resolutions for Council Remuneration, By-law 2016-24 repeal, and Proclamation Policy to March meeting
• Directed staff to bring resolutions for road allowance applications (Wurm, Allen, Huntress) to March meeting

Council Meeting

The Township of The Archipelago Council will meet to discuss municipal funding requests and road allowances. The body is also seeking to appoint a representative to the West Parry Sound Economic Development Collaborative Stakeholder Board.

• Appointment of Reeve Liverance to the West Parry Sound Economic Development Collaborative Board of Stakeholder Municipalities
• Deputation from Chris McDonald regarding Archipelago Municipal Funding Request
• Deputation from John Jackson regarding Huntress Shore Road Allowance
• Connectivity Committee update
• Deputation from Linda West and Phil Black of the Rotary Club of Parry Sound

Council approved the purchase of 100 FoodCycler units and added $70,000 to the 2023 budget for organic waste diversion. The board also approved several shore road allowance closures and a $2,500 conference sponsorship. Additionally, the Internet Connectivity & Infrastructure 'Ad Hoc' Technical Committee was disbanded.

• Approved purchase of 100 FoodCycler units for $35,000 + HST and added $70,000 to 2023 budget
• Approved $2,500 Bronze Sponsorship for 2023 FONOM Northeastern Municipal Conference
• Approved shore road allowance closure and conveyance for 45 Georgian Bay Water
• Approved shore road allowance closure and conveyance for 106 Healey Lake Water
• Passed By-law 2023-08 to close and sell shore road allowance for Monger and Soriano
• Passed By-law 2023-07 for Enabling Accessibility Fund grant agreement
• Disbanded Internet Connectivity & Infrastructure 'Ad Hoc' Technical Committee
• Appointed Reeve Liverance to the Board of Stakeholder Municipalities (2022-2026)

Planning Board

The agenda consists primarily of procedural boilerplate. The board will consider the approval of minutes from December 15, 2022, and enter a closed meeting to discuss litigation matters.

• Approval of December 15, 2022 meeting minutes
• Closed meeting regarding litigation or potential litigation

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is reviewing the Township of The Archipelago Strategic Plan and various department updates. The body is also considering recommendation reports for shore road allowances and accessibility grants.

• Township of The Archipelago Strategic Plan presentation by Karen Jones Consulting
• Shore Road Allowance Recommendation Report for Cox (45 Georgian Bay Water)
• Shore Road Allowance Recommendation Report for Matthews (106 Healey Lake Water)
• Discussion on updating the Planning Fee By-law
• Recommendation reports for Enabling Accessibility Fund grants and a FoodCycler proposal

The Committee of the Whole discussed several administrative and infrastructure updates, directing staff to bring multiple resolutions to the February Council Meeting. Key actions included planning for a strategic session and proposing a resolution opposing Bill 23.

• Directed staff to add $70,000 to 2023 budget for second phase of FoodCycler program
• Agreed to disband Internet Connectivity & Infrastructure Ad Hoc Technical Committee in favor of a Technology section
• Nominated Councillor Sheard as Chair and Reeve Liverance as Vice-Chair of the new Technology section
• Selected Reeve Liverance as main representative and Councillor Ashley as alternative for West Parry Sound Economic Development Collaborative Stakeholder Board
• Agreed to submit a resolution opposing Bill 23 to the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative
• Directed staff to bring a silver tier sponsorship resolution for the 2023 FONOM conference to February Council
• Directed staff to bring a by-law for $81,321 in Enabling Accessibility Fund grants to February Council
• Directed staff to bring shore road allowance resolutions for Cox and Matthews to February Council

Water Access Task Force

The Water Access Task Force is meeting to approve previous minutes and conduct a closed session. The closed portion of the meeting is designated to discuss the proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land.

• Approval of December 15, 2022 meeting minutes
• Closed meeting regarding acquisition of lands

The task force approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from December 15, 2022. Members entered a closed meeting to discuss the proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land. No substantive decisions were recorded in the open session.

• Approved February 16, 2023 agenda (Carried)
• Approved December 15, 2022 meeting minutes (Carried)
• Moved into closed meeting at 4:33 p.m. to discuss land acquisition/disposition (Carried)
• Moved out of closed meeting at 5:11 p.m. (Carried)

Council Meeting

The Archipelago Council will meet to discuss municipal partnerships and local service costs. The session includes deputations from the public library and district museum, as well as a closed session for council training.

• Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for Shared Personnel between The Archipelago and Town of Parry Sound
• By-law for Cost of Fire Protection Services in the Blackstone Lake Area
• Deputation from Selena Martens, CEO of Parry Sound Public Library, regarding the 2023 budget
• Deputation from Nadine Hammond, Manager/Curator of West Parry Sound District Museum, regarding the 2023 Municipal Ask
• Connectivity Committee Update

Council approved a $22,000 contract for a communications audit and passed by-laws regarding emergency services, user fees, and personnel sharing. The board also authorized a payment for sculpture certification and directed staff to investigate emergency response options for the North Archipelago.

• Awarded Communications Audit and Strategy Plan to Banko Creative Studios for $22,000 plus HST
• Approved $9,322.50 for Kelly Juhasz Fine Art Consulting for Pointe Au Baril sculpture certification
• Passed By-law 2023-01 to share GIS Technician Personnel with Town of Parry Sound
• Passed By-law 2023-02 to impose fire protection fees in Blackstone Lake Area
• Passed By-law 2023-03 for emergency response agreement with Township of Seguin
• Passed By-law 2023-04 for Next Generation (NG 9-1-1) services with Bell Canada
• Passed By-law 2023-05 to establish user fees when Site 9 Weigh Scale is non-operational
• Authorized Reeve Liverance to attend Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Summit on Fresh Water

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will consider several finance and administration items, including a Next Generation 9-1-1 Authority Service Agreement with Bell Canada and an Emergency Response Service Agreement with the Township of Seguin. They will also review a proposed Communications Audit and Strategy Plan RFP award, 2023 meeting dates, and a request to recognize January as Crime Stoppers Month. Under planning and building, the committee will discuss a road acquisition at 168 South Shore Road and a draft letter regarding floating cottages.

• Next Generation (NG) 9-1-1 Authority Service Agreement 2023-01 with Bell Canada
• Emergency Response Service Agreement with the Township of Seguin 2023-02
• Award Request for Proposal (RFP) - Communications Audit and Strategy Plan 2023-03
• South Shore Road Acquisition at 168 South Shore Road (Marsh, Rowan)
• Georgian Bay Association Floating Cottage Committee – Draft Letter to Minister Graydon Smith

The Committee reviewed several administrative and operational items, directing staff to bring resolutions and by-laws for 9-1-1 services, emergency response, and a communications audit to the January Council meeting. Staff were also instructed to investigate emergency response options for the north and alternative venues for the 2023 Deerhorn conference.

• Directed staff to bring a resolution to reschedule May Council meetings to May 25th and 26th
• Directed staff to bring a by-law for Next Generation 9-1-1 Authority Service Agreement to January Council
• Directed staff to bring a by-law for the Township of Seguin emergency response agreement to January Council
• Directed staff to investigate emergency response options for the northern portion of the Township
• Directed staff to bring a resolution to award Communications Audit and Strategy Plan to Banko Creative Services for $22,000 plus HST
• Directed staff to review and provide recommendations for modifying the Traditional Land Acknowledgement Statement
• Directed staff to finalize and send a letter regarding floating accommodations to Minister Graydon Smith
• Approved a $25.00 increase to the employee Work Boot Allowance program