Simcoe County public meetings in 2021
80 substantive meetings from 2021, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
POSTPONED - Bursary Committee
This meeting was postponed. The Bursary Committee was scheduled to receive a status report on the County of Simcoe Bursary Program and provide direction on proposed eligibility and participation changes for 2022. Proposed changes include expanding eligibility to students at post-secondary institutions across Canada and allowing part-time students, as well as limiting awards to applicants from participating municipalities.
- Review of Bursary Program Terms of Reference
- Discussion of eligibility expansion to Canadian post-secondary institutions
- Discussion of eligibility for part-time students
- Proposal to award bursaries only to applicants from participating municipalities
- 2021 program: 262 applications, 167 eligible, 20 bursaries awarded
Special Council Meeting - Municipal Comprehensive Review (MCR)
This special council meeting is dedicated to the Municipal Comprehensive Review (MCR), with presentations from consultants on growth management, agricultural system mapping, natural heritage system mapping, and climate change strategy. Council will receive these presentations and then consider a confirmation by-law to ratify the meeting's proceedings. The agenda is largely procedural, with the substantive content being the consultant reports.
- Presentation on Growth Management by Stefan Krzeczunowicz from Hemson Consulting
- Presentation on Provincial Agricultural System Mapping by Nick McDonald (Meridian Planning) and Dave Hodgson (DBH Soils Services Inc.)
- Presentation on Provincial Natural Heritage System Mapping by Nick McDonald and Sal Spitale (North South Environmental)
- Presentation on Climate Change Strategy by Dr. Laura Taylor (Laura Taylor Designs)
- Bill No. 63 - By-law to Confirm Proceedings of the Council meeting
Regional Government Review - Service Delivery Task Force
The Regional Government Review Task Force will review the final Fire Services Review report by Pomax Consulting. Members will provide direction on ten specific recommendations regarding fire service models and efficiency.
- Review of Pomax Consulting Fire Services Review Final Report
- Discussion of recommendations #1 through #10 regarding fire service delivery
- Review of the Regional Government Review Service Delivery Gantt Chart
- Follow-up on Fire Services Review (RGR 2021-309)
Regional Government Review - Service Delivery Task Force
The Regional Government Review Service Delivery Task Force is meeting to receive a presentation on opportunities and options for land use planning service delivery, based on a final report by StrategyCorp. The task force will provide direction on land use planning. The agenda also includes an update on the overall service delivery review via a Gantt chart.
- Presentation on Land Use Planning Service Delivery Review by StrategyCorp's Aidan Grove-White
- Land Use Planning Services Review Final Report (September 2021) received for information
- Gantt chart showing status of service delivery reviews for fire, library, legal, transit, water/wastewater, and other services
- Recommendation to receive the opportunities and options presentation and provide direction on land use planning
Lake Simcoe Regional Airport Board
The Lake Simcoe Regional Airport Board is meeting to receive an update on airport activities, including progress toward Transport Canada certification, a plan of subdivision for airport lands, and completed infrastructure projects. The board will also discuss a confidential matter regarding a proposed land acquisition or disposition.
- Update on Transport Canada certification, noting LSRA is the only non-certified airport in the Southern Ontario Airport Network
- Plan of Subdivision to allow land leases over 21 years and direct property taxes to hangar owners
- Runway widening project completed at $6.1 million, under the $6.6 million budget, with a $1.5 million provincial grant
- Procurement of Snow Wolf SB-520 airfield snow blower for approximately $615,000
- Procurement of Aebi Schmidt MB runway sweeper attachment for $105,000
Joint Council and Committee of the Whole
Simcoe County Council is meeting to consider a wide range of items, including approving new development charges, transferring a road from Oro-Medonte, and adopting an emergency management plan. They will also vote on several by-laws, including one for digital signatures and one for a mutual assistance agreement with Muskoka. The agenda includes many routine reports and updates, but also several significant decisions.
- Bill No. 54: By-law to establish new Development Charges, repealing By-law No. 6555
- CCW 2021-371: Transfer of 7th Line Oro-Medonte (12.6 km) from Township to County
- CCW 2021-373: Approve $187,745 from contingency to supplement $2.175M ICIP funding for LTC home HVAC/roofing
- CCW 2021-369: Speed limit changes on County Roads 93, 21, 53, 46, and 6
- CCW 2021-378: Adopt new Paramedic Services response time performance targets
Affordable Housing Advisory Committee
The Affordable Housing Advisory Committee is meeting to receive two informational updates: one on the progress of the National Housing Council and Federal Housing Advocate, and another on enhanced capacity for homeless shelter services over the winter. No decisions or votes are scheduled; the agenda is largely procedural, with the main items being received as information.
- Update on National Housing Council and Federal Housing Advocate (AHA 2021-331)
- Memo on Homeless Shelter Services Update (CCW 2021-366) - winter capacity
- Review of Committee Terms of Reference
- Approval of agenda and disclosure of pecuniary interests
Committee of the Whole
Simcoe County's Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss and recommend items for County Council, including the 2022 draft budget, a new development charge by-law, and allocations from the Social and Community Investment Fund. The committee will also consider a mutual assistance agreement with the District of Muskoka and several planning and consent items.
- 2022 Draft County of Simcoe Budget (CCW 2021-346) recommended to Council for adoption on Nov 23, 2021
- County of Simcoe Development Charge By-law (CCW 2021-359) to establish development charges
- 2022 Social and Community Investment Fund allocations: 16 projects totaling $1,199,000
- Mutual Assistance Agreement between District of Muskoka and County of Simcoe (CCW 2021-368)
- Endorsement of amendments to South Georgian Bay Lake Simcoe Source Protection Plan (Oro-Medonte chapters)
Regional Government Review - Service Delivery Task Force
The Regional Government Review - Service Delivery Task Force is meeting to receive KPMG's final report on the Simcoe County Library System Service Delivery Review. The report analyzes the current library service model, which KPMG describes as high-cost compared to similar counties, and presents three options for future service delivery. The task force will provide direction on library services based on the report's findings.
- KPMG report: current library system costs $16.4 million annually, with $15.1 million from tax levy
- Three options presented: Modified Status Quo, Library Consolidation, Multiple Union Boards
- Current system has 108 board members, 144 staff, 124 volunteers across 28 branches
- Library services review is part of broader Regional Government Review with multiple service reviews ongoing
- Task force to provide direction on library services after receiving report
Council
Simcoe County Council is meeting to approve recommendations from several committee reports, including a waste management workshop that detailed the rollout of new curbside waste carts, and reports on performance management, human services, and corporate services. The council will also consider reports on development charges, regional government review, and a striking committee, and will enact a by-law to amend the consolidated traffic by-law.
- Approval of waste cart exchange plan, including expedited exchanges, additional staff, and contract amendments with Rehrig
- Approval of recommendations from the Public Meeting regarding Development Charges report
- Approval of recommendations from the Regional Government Review Taskforce report
- Approval of recommendations from the Striking Committee report
- Enactment of Bill No. 51 to amend Consolidated Traffic By-law No. 6609
Economic Development Sub-Committee
The Economic Development Sub-Committee will receive updates on workforce development, attraction, and retention initiatives, including the Work in Simcoe County job portal and a virtual job fair. It will also consider approving a 2021 Economic Development Funding Program application from the Township of Essa and receive a tourism business and stakeholder support update. The committee may authorize the Warden and County Clerk to execute a Rural Economic Development (RED) funding program contract for 2022-2023, pending OMAFRA confirmation.
- Workforce development, attraction and retention initiatives update (EDS 2021-352)
- Authorization to execute RED funding program contract for 2022-2023
- 2021 Economic Development Funding Program application from Township of Essa (EDS 2021-360)
- Tourism Simcoe County business and stakeholder support update (EDS 2021-356)
Special Budget Meeting - Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is receiving a presentation on the 2022 draft County of Simcoe budget. No decisions are expected at this meeting; the draft will be referred to the November 9, 2021 Committee of the Whole meeting for review and recommendations to the November 23, 2021 County Council meeting. The budget includes COVID-19 impacts, capital projects, and departmental summaries.
- 2022 draft budget with operating revenues of $520.1M and expenses of $505.9M
- COVID-19 impacts totaling over $7.4M
- Capital program includes three affordable housing developments in Orillia, Barrie, and Bradford West Gwillimbury
- Major road construction projects on CR4, CR21, CR22, and CR93
- Implementation of new automated waste collection system
Regional Government Review - Service Delivery Task Force
The Regional Government Review - Service Delivery Task Force is meeting to receive consultant reports and updates on several service delivery reviews, including library services, land use planning, fire services, and water and wastewater. The task force will hear presentations from KPMG, StrategyCorp, Pomax Consulting, and RV Anderson Associates, and will consider a recommendation to provide direction on fire services.
- Library Services Review: KPMG presents final report recommending Option 3 (county library system) as highest-ranked option
- Land Use Planning Services Review: StrategyCorp presents review findings
- Fire Services Review: Pomax Consulting presents report; task force to provide direction
- Water and Wastewater Review: RV Anderson presents interim findings
- Service Delivery Review Update (RGR 2021-358) received
Special Council - Waste Management Workshop
Simcoe County Council is holding a special workshop to decide on waste management policies, primarily whether to allow residents to exchange their curbside waste carts for different sizes. The agenda presents three options: expedited exchanges, waiting for more data, or no exchanges, with detailed rules on fees, cart sizes, and additional carts. Council will also consider a letter from Oro-Medonte regarding the automated cart collection system and other procedural items.
- Option A: Expedited cart exchanges starting mid-January 2022, with $50 fee after July 2022
- Option B: Wait for evidence-based decision, reaffirming existing direction
- Option C: No cart exchanges
- Proposed rules: no larger carts, 360 L recycling cart exchangeable for 240 L, no additional garbage carts, $50 per additional recycling/organic cart
- Bear-resistant carts to be obtained on a case-by-case basis
Public Meeting Regarding Development Charges
The County of Simcoe is conducting a statutory public meeting to discuss a proposed 2021 Development Charges Background Study and By-law. The meeting provides an opportunity for the public to review and comment on draft rates intended to fund capital projects related to growth.
- Proposed residential charge for singles/semis at $14,444 per unit
- Proposed residential charge for apartments at $7,745 per unit
- Proposed non-residential charge of $47.49 per square metre of GFA
- Draft residential charge increase of 45% compared to current rates
- Written submission from Building Industry and Land Development Association (BiLD)
Committee of the Whole
Simcoe County's Committee of the Whole is reviewing and approving routine operational reports, including the 2021 forecast, long-term care funding, and a transit petition referral. The agenda also includes appeals to the Ontario Land Tribunal and a request to approve a New Tecumseth Official Plan Amendment.
- Approve 2021 Forecast Report (CCW 2021-322)
- Allocate up to $71K from Homes Contingency Reserve for long-term care stabilization
- Refer Port McNicoll LINX bus stop petition to Transportation Master Plan working group
- Maintain 80 km/h speed limit on County Road 45 in Rathburn
- Approve Official Plan Amendment No. 1 to Town of New Tecumseth Official Plan
Council
This is a largely procedural meeting where Council will approve the agenda, consent agenda, minutes, and committee reports from October 12, 2021. It will also consider recommendations from the Performance Management, Human Services, and Corporate Services committees, as well as the Economic Development Sub-Committee. A confirmatory by-law (Bill No. 49) will be enacted to formalize the meeting's proceedings.
- Approval of Committee of the Whole reports (Performance Management, Human Services, Corporate Services) from Oct. 12
- Approval of Economic Development Sub-Committee report from Oct. 12
- Enactment of Bill No. 49, a by-law to confirm proceedings of the Oct. 26 Council meeting
- Receipt of Council Communications and Proclamations for Oct. 12-25, 2021
Accessibility Advisory Committee
The Joint Accessibility Advisory Committee is reviewing the 2022 work plan and meeting schedule. The committee is also considering allocating funds for a new accessible ramp and walkway at Sunset Manor.
- Approval of the 2022 Draft Work Plan and meeting dates
- Allocation of $25,000 from the 2021 Accessibility Improvements Budget for a Sunset Manor courtyard ramp
- Virtual facility review summary for Tay Township Public Library branches
- Virtual facility review for the Township of Adjala-Tosorontio office
- Virtual facility review for the Township of Oro-Medonte administration building
Simcoe County Housing Corporation Board
The Simcoe County Housing Corporation Board will receive the 2021 Second Quarter Report, which covers management and financial performance, pandemic-related activities, and capital projects. The report notes a forecasted operational deficit of $349,000, increased behavioural issues in some buildings, and ongoing capital project delays due to material and labour shortages.
- 2021 Second Quarter Report received
- Forecasted operational deficit of $349,000
- On-site security guards at Wasaga Beach and Collingwood family buildings
- Tenant arrears at 32.8% as of June 30, 2021
- Capital projects slightly behind schedule due to material and labour shortages
Economic Development Sub-Committee
The Economic Development Sub-Committee is receiving updates on agriculture and agri-food work plans, the COVID-19 recovery plan for economic development and tourism, and municipal accommodation tax. It will also consider funding program reports from Adjala-Tosorontio and other municipalities, including adjustments for unspent funds.
- Update on Regional and County Agriculture and Agri-Food Value Chain Work Plans 2020-2021
- Economic Development & Tourism COVID-19 Recovery Plan Progress Report - September 2021
- Adjala-Tosorontio's 2021 Economic Development Funding Program application
- 2019 Economic Development Funding Program report back, with adjustments for unspent allocations
- Tourism Simcoe County Municipal Accommodation Tax update and input on receiving promotions portion
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is considering several items, including three requests to exempt properties from the Forest Conservation By-law to allow woodland removal, an update on the Sustainable Operations Program, and a presentation on Georgian College's economic impact. The committee will also receive reports on child care worker appreciation, a bee mural project, and the 2022 meeting schedule. A closed session is scheduled for a confidential litigation update.
- Exemption to remove 11.0 hectares (27.3 acres) of woodlands at 8284 4th Line, Township of Essa
- Exemption to remove 1.8 hectares (4.4 acres) of woodlands at 1908 Concession Road 10, Township of Ramara
- Exemption to remove 3.5 hectares (8.7 acres) of woodlands at 15990 County Road 27 and 161 Concession 2 East, Township of Tiny
- Sustainable Operations Program Fall 2021 update, including submission of PCP Milestone 1 baseline inventory to FCM
- Georgian College economic impact presentation: $1.7 billion income added, 22,752 jobs supported
Council
Simcoe County Council is meeting to approve routine items, including reports from committees and a by-law for a bridge and interchange project at Highway 11 and County Road 93 in Crown Hill. The agenda is largely procedural, with most items being confirmations of previous decisions.
- By-law to authorize agreement with Ontario for expanded bridge and interchange improvements at Highway 11 and County Road 93, Crown Hill
- Approval of Committee of the Whole reports on Performance Management, Human Services, and Corporate Services
- Approval of Regional Government Review Service Delivery Task Force report
- Proclamation of October 21, 2021 as Child Care Worker and Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day
Bursary Committee
The committee will elect a Chair and Vice-Chair and review its Terms of Reference. Members will also enter a closed session to select recipients for the County of Simcoe Bursary Program.
- Election of Chair and Vice-Chair
- Review of Bursary Committee Terms of Reference
- Confidential selection of bursary recipients
Audit and Finance Committee
The Audit and Finance Committee is meeting to approve the 2021 audit engagement letter from Baker Tilly KDN LLP, the audit committee planning letter, the 2021 audit plan, and the draft 2022 work plan and meeting schedule. These are routine procedural items for the annual financial audit.
- Approve 2021 Audit Engagement Letter from Baker Tilly KDN LLP
- Receive 2021 Audit & Finance Committee Planning Letter
- Approve 2021 Audit Plan
- Approve draft 2022 Work Plan for Audit and Finance Committee
- Approve 2022 Meeting Schedule for Audit and Finance Committee
Regional Government Review - Service Delivery Task Force
The Regional Government Review – Service Delivery Task Force is meeting to receive consultant reports on Library Services (by KPMG) and Land Use Planning (by StrategyCorp Inc.), and to provide direction on both. The agenda also includes a status update on the overall service delivery review process, covering fire, water/wastewater, transit, and other services. Most items are for information or discussion, with no final decisions expected at this meeting.
- Receive KPMG Library Services Review presentation and provide direction
- Receive StrategyCorp Land Use Planning Services Review presentation and provide direction
- Update on Service Delivery Review processes (RGR 2021-330)
- Gantt chart shows fire and water/wastewater reviews pending preliminary reports in October 2021
- Approximately $600k remaining from provincial modernization funding for studies
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is reviewing routine operational reports and several consent items, including updates on paramedic services, archives, and library operations. Key decisions include approving an Official Plan Amendment for Clearview and authorizing a memorandum of understanding with the Ministry of Transportation for interchange improvements at Highway 11 and County Road 93. The committee will also consider a woodland removal exemption in Ramara and enter closed session for land and litigation matters.
- Approve Official Plan Amendment No. 22 to the Township of Clearview Official Plan
- Authorize MOU with MTO for expanded bridge interchange at Highway 11 and County Road 93 in Crown Hill
- Grant exemption to remove 3.6 hectares (8.9 acres) of woodlands at 2907 Line 5, Township of Ramara
- Receive paramedic services updates on 2021 Ministry of Health funding and cardiac arrest response strategy
- Receive letters from Township of Ramara on photo radar in school zones and waste collection carts
Council
Simcoe County Council is meeting to approve the agenda, adopt minutes, and consider reports from the Committee of the Whole. Key actions include enacting three by-laws: amending the consolidated traffic by-law, authorizing an agreement for the Canada-Ontario Community Housing Initiative, and authorizing agreements for Social Services Relief Phase 4 funds. The meeting also includes receiving communications and proclamations, including National Seniors Day.
- Bill No. 43: amend Consolidated Traffic By-law No. 6609
- Bill No. 44: authorize agreement for Canada-Ontario Community Housing Initiative (COCHI)
- Bill No. 45: authorize agreements for Social Services Relief Phase 4 Funds
- Proclamation of National Seniors Day on October 1, 2021
Affordable Housing Advisory Committee
The Affordable Housing Advisory Committee is reviewing updates on pre-approved building plans and affordable housing targets. The meeting also includes receiving correspondence regarding housing needs in South Simcoe and North Simcoe.
- Discussion of pre-approved building plans to reduce development costs
- Update on the Building Hope Project
- Update on Affordable Housing Targets
- Correspondence from SCATEH regarding the 10-Year Affordable Housing Plan in South Simcoe
- Correspondence from North Simcoe Victim Services regarding urgent housing needs
Council
This is a largely procedural meeting of Simcoe County Council. The main substantive item is a by-law to appoint staff of K9ine Security as Municipal Law Enforcement Officers. Council will also adopt minutes, receive communications, and approve a confirmatory by-law.
- Bill No. 40: By-law to appoint K9ine Security staff as Municipal Law Enforcement Officers
- Proclamation of September 30, 2021 as National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
- Adoption of minutes from August 10, 2021 Joint Council and Committee of the Whole
- Approval of Economic Development Sub-Committee report from August 10, 2021
- Bill No. 42: Confirmatory by-law for proceedings of this meeting
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is meeting to receive consent items and reports, including a 2021 homeless enumeration scheduled for November 17-23, 2021, and to provide direction on several engineering and solid waste matters. The agenda also includes closed-session items on litigation and confidential negotiations. Most items are routine approvals or updates, with no major policy decisions expected.
- 2021 Homeless Enumeration scheduled for November 17-23, 2021, with $20,000 from CHPI funding
- Speed limit on County Road 16 at Fesserton to remain at 80 km/h
- Endorsement of correspondence on MTO's Greater Golden Horseshoe Transportation Plan
- Direction on cart size exchanges for waste collection prior to user survey results
- Closed session for litigation and confidential negotiations
Accessibility Advisory Committee
The Joint Accessibility Advisory Committee is meeting to review accessibility at three Tay Township Public Library branches (Victoria Harbour, Port McNicoll, and Waubaushene) and proposed accessibility upgrades to three parks in Adjala-Tosorontio. They will also receive a proposal for a walking trail at the Anten Mills Community Centre in Springwater. The agenda includes routine items like approving the agenda and the 2021 workplan.
- Virtual facility reviews of Tay Township Public Library branches: Victoria Harbour, Port McNicoll, and Waubaushene
- Accessibility upgrades to 3 municipal parks in Adjala-Tosorontio: Wardens' Park, Lisle Memorial Park, and John O. Irwin Ball Park
- Springwater's Anten Mills Community Centre walking trail proposal
- Approval of the 2021 AAC workplan
Joint Council and Committee of the Whole
Simcoe County Council is meeting to consider a range of staff reports and recommendations, including the 2021 Long Term Financial Plan, a 2022 Development Charge Background Study, and several planning approvals. The agenda also includes consent items on human services, corporate services, and a closed session for land and labour matters.
- 2021 Long Term Financial Plan (CCW 2021-216) for approval
- 2022 Development Charge Background Study (CCW 2021-236) received
- Forest Conservation By-law 6894 exemption for 1.6 ha at 7712 County Road 56, Essa
- Approval of Official Plan amendments for Beeton, Tiny, and Wasaga Beach
- Consent for SMDHU line of credit up to $5,000,000 from TD Commercial Bank
Economic Development Sub-Committee
The Economic Development Sub-Committee is reviewing reports from municipalities on how they spent 2019 economic development funds, with some incomplete or unspent allocations potentially affecting 2021 funding. They are also considering 2021 funding applications and receiving updates on tourism initiatives, including an agritourism toolkit and the Cycle Simcoe program.
- 2019 funding report backs: some municipalities (e.g., Essa, Springwater) did not spend funds; adjustments to 2021 allocations proposed
- 2021 Economic Development Funding Program applications to be considered
- Tourism Simcoe County Agritourism Toolkit to be received
- Cycle Simcoe update presentation by Brendan Matheson
- News release on $2.8M provincial investment in Barrie-area businesses (Tempo Plastics, Matsu Manufacturing, Volatus Flight Systems)
Solid Waste Management - Information Workshop
County Council attended a virtual workshop to discuss the future of solid waste management. Presentations covered landfill capacity in Ontario, upcoming Blue Box legislative changes, and the long-term financial plan for waste services.
- Update on County material tonnages showing a 64% diversion rate in 2020
- Discussion of landfill closures scheduled for 2024 and 2029
- Blue Box transition impacts with a current target date of January 1, 2024
- Long-term financial plan including a projected $7M impact from Blue Box transition
- Update on automated cart collection and distribution scheduled for August 3 to October 23
Governance Committee
The Governance Committee will consider and likely approve the Terms of Reference for two committees: the Bursary Committee, which awards bursaries to local graduates, and the Forest Appeal Committee, which hears appeals related to tree harvesting permits. The committee will also receive correspondence with the provincial ministry about the head of council governance structure, and will hold a closed session for a confidential verbal update on personal matters.
- Approve Bursary Committee Terms of Reference (GOV 2021-175)
- Approve Forest Appeal Committee Terms of Reference (GOV 2021-245)
- Receive correspondence with Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing regarding head of council governance structure
- Closed session for confidential verbal update under Municipal Act Section 239(2)(b)
Joint Council and Committee of the Whole
Simcoe County Council is meeting to approve recommendations from Committee of the Whole reports, including converting a $2.7 million construction loan for the Building Hope Project into a long-term loan, approving 2022 high-level budget assumptions, and endorsing 2021 strategic initiatives. The agenda also includes several consent items, a closed session for land, labour, and litigation matters, and routine procedural items.
- Building Hope Project mortgage: convert $2,700,000 interest-free construction loan to $2,714,980 long-term loan, extend maturity to Oct 31, 2021
- 2022 High Level Budget Assumptions to be incorporated into draft 2022 budget
- 2021 Strategic Initiatives approved for circulation
- Temporary closure of County Road 45 at Sucker Creek Culvert for 20 weeks in Ramara
- Rail Safety Improvement Program funding agreement with Transport Canada
Affordable Housing Advisory Committee
The Affordable Housing Advisory Committee is meeting to receive an update on local planning initiatives related to affordable housing, including presentations from the City of Barrie, Town of Innisfil, and County of Simcoe. The agenda includes discussion of Official Plan updates, third dwelling units, Community Improvement Plans, and Minister's Zoning Orders. The committee will also approve its agenda and terms of reference.
- Barrie's Community Improvement Plan awarded $1,777,780 in 2020 for affordable housing grants
- Innisfil passed zoning amendment allowing accessory third dwelling units on June 2, 2021
- Five local official plans updated and approved by County Council, pending appeals
- Minister's Zoning Orders issued for Innisfil, Oro-Medonte, Springwater, and New Tecumseth
- Committee to receive presentations from Barrie, Innisfil, and County staff
Council
Council will review recommendations from the Committee of the Whole regarding Performance Management, Human Services, and Corporate Services. The meeting also includes consideration of two land expropriation by-laws and a regional government review report.
- Expropriation of land at 9551 County Road 93, Town of Midland
- Expropriation of land at 3755 Yonge Street, Bradford
- Regional Government Review - Service Delivery Task Force Report
- Performance Management recommendations
- Human Services recommendations
Simcoe County Housing Corporation Board
The Simcoe County Housing Corporation Board will receive the 2020 Fourth Quarter Report, which summarizes the corporation's operations, finances, and capital projects during the pandemic. The report notes a $275,969 operational deficit and a $197,313 capital deficit, partly due to COVID-19 cleaning costs and an emergency repair. It also highlights increased tenant arrears and the sale of 13 scattered units in Barrie for about $5.8 million.
- 2020 Fourth Quarter Report received
- Operational deficit of $275,969 and capital deficit of $197,313
- Tenant arrears rose to 35.7% as of Dec 31, 2020, up from 22.3% in 2019
- 13 scattered units in Barrie sold for approximately $5.8 million
- 40 buildings received new roofing systems
Special Council Meeting (Public Meeting) - County of Simcoe Municipal Comprehensive Review (MCR)
Simcoe County Council is holding a special public meeting as part of its Municipal Comprehensive Review (MCR), which will update the county's official plan to conform with provincial growth targets. The meeting includes a presentation from consultants and numerous verbal and written submissions from the public, developers, and local groups. The county must plan for a population of 555,000 and 198,000 jobs by 2051, with a conformity deadline of July 1, 2022.
- Correspondence from Minister Steve Clark regarding changes to A Place to Grow: Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe
- Presentation by Hemson Consulting on the Municipal Comprehensive Review
- Verbal submissions from 12 speakers, including Rescue Lake Simcoe Coalition, Simcoe County Greenbelt Coalition, and developers on behalf of properties in Innisfil, Oro-Medonte, and Stayner
- 42 written submissions, including from developers on behalf of properties in Alliston, Bradford, Essa, and Innisfil, and from local groups like AWARE Simcoe and the Town of Wasaga Beach
- County must plan for 555,000 population and 198,000 jobs by 2051
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole will consider several staff recommendations, including increasing funding for secondary suites and rent subsidies, receiving a 10-year paramedic services review, and approving an official plan amendment for the Township of Severn. The agenda also includes routine consent items, correspondence, and a closed session for land and labour matters.
- Increase in-year funding by $150,000 for Secondary Suites Program and $200,000 for Municipal Rent Subsidy Program
- Approve 2021 211 Service Agreement with Community Connection for $37,500
- Receive Paramedic Services 10 Year Comprehensive Demand and Resourcing Review and update Strategic Facility Plan
- Approve Official Plan Amendment No. 10 to the Township of Severn Official Plan
- Fund $68k replacement of Hot Water System Equipment at Simcoe and Sunset Villages from Reserve Funds
Regional Government Review - Service Delivery Task Force
The Service Delivery Task Force is reviewing progress on various municipal service audits, including legal, fire, and library services. The meeting also addressed proposed changes to the Conservation Authorities Act and correspondence regarding the Ontario Fire College.
- Review of Service Delivery Task Force Gantt Chart progress
- Correspondence regarding proposed changes to the Conservation Authorities Act
- Correspondence regarding the closure of Ontario Fire College in Gravenhurst
- Update on RGR 2021-220 Service Delivery Review processes
Audit and Finance Committee
The Audit and Finance Committee is meeting to review and approve the County of Simcoe's 2020 draft audited financial statements, the 2020 investment report, and the audit committee reporting letter. They will also receive the statement of development charge reserve funds for fiscal year 2020, which is required to be submitted to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. The meeting includes a presentation by the external auditor, Baker Tilly KDN LLP.
- Approval of 2020 draft audited financial statements for the County of Simcoe
- Receipt of 2020 Investment Report showing $6.3M in investments with $731K income earned
- Statement of Development Charge Reserve Funds for fiscal year 2020, with closing balance of $2,386,062
- Audit Committee Reporting Letter from Baker Tilly KDN LLP
- 2021 Audit and Finance Committee workplan review
Council
The Council will review several committee reports regarding performance management, human services, and corporate services. Key legislative items include a transit procurement agreement with Metrolinx and development charge relief for a project in Midland.
- Bill No. 31: Governance Agreement with Metrolinx for Joint Transit Procurements
- Bill No. 32: Development Charges Relief for 860 Yonge Street, Midland
- Committee of the Whole Report: Performance Management recommendations
- Committee of the Whole Report: Human Services recommendations
- Committee of the Whole Report: Corporate Services recommendations
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is reviewing several performance reports and approving major infrastructure projects. Key decisions include moving forward with an affordable housing development in Bradford and the Simcoe Manor redevelopment.
- Approval of $28.4 million Bradford affordable housing development at 125 Simcoe Road
- Approval of Simcoe Manor and Village redevelopment project including 34 additional long-term care beds
- Approval of museum deaccession of Indigenous objects for transfer to other institutions
- Approval of $74,940 from the Planning and Economic Development Reserve for 2021 trails projects
- Implementation of Resuscitation Quality Assurance Program for Paramedic Services
Affordable Housing Advisory Committee
The Affordable Housing Advisory Committee is reviewing four items, including a proposal to increase Housing First allocations in Simcoe County Housing Corporation new builds from 5% to 10% of units, pending Council budget approval. They will also receive reports on short-term rentals' effects on affordable housing, the Housing Our Future 2020 Annual Report, and a By-Name List update. The annual report is recommended for approval and submission to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.
- Increase Housing First allocations in new builds from 5% to 10% of units, in principle and pending Council budget approval
- Receive report on effects of short-term rentals on affordable housing, including research and regulatory examples
- Approve and submit Housing Our Future: 2020 Annual Report to MMAH and disseminate to public
- Receive By-Name List Update 2021
Council
Simcoe County Council meets May 11, 2021 to approve its agenda, confirm minutes from April 27, receive communications, and consider committee reports on performance management, human services, and corporate services. Council will also hold the annual meeting of the shareholder of the Simcoe County Housing Corporation and consider Bill No. 29 on tax limitations for certain property classes. The agenda is largely procedural, with several items received or confirmed without detailed debate.
- Bill No. 29: bylaw to adopt municipal options under Part IX of the Municipal Act, 2001 on limitation on taxes for certain property classes
- Annual Meeting of the Shareholder of the Simcoe County Housing Corporation
- Committee of the Whole reports on Performance Management, Human Services, and Corporate Services dated April 27, 2021
- Council Communications and Petitions for April 27 to May 10, 2021 received
- Proclamation of Paramedic Services Week, May 23-29, 2021
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is meeting on May 11, 2021 to consider several items, including approving Official Plan Amendment No. 15 to the Township of Adjala-Tosorontio Official Plan, authorizing a governance agreement with Metrolinx for joint transit procurements, and funding emergency HVAC repairs at Georgian Village. The committee will also receive updates on the 2021 #ITSTARTS campaign, Paramedic Services Week, and a housing corporation award. A closed session will address a confidential negotiation matter under the Municipal Act.
- Approval of Official Plan Amendment No. 15 to the Township of Adjala-Tosorontio Official Plan, as adopted by By-law 13-24 and modified by Schedule 1 to Item CCW-2021-145
- Authorization for the Warden and County Clerk to re-enter the 2019-24 Metrolinx TPI Governance Agreement for joint transit procurements
- Emergency HVAC repairs at Georgian Village to be funded from the Georgian Village Life Lease Suites Operating/Capital Reserve and the Homes Contingency Reserve
- Receipt of the 2021 #ITSTARTS campaign outcomes from the Simcoe County Local Immigration Partnership
- Closed session regarding Confidential Item CCW 2021-158 under Municipal Act Section 239 (2)(k) for negotiation instructions
Economic Development Sub-Committee
The Economic Development Sub-Committee received updates on three initiatives: a manufacturing innovation pilot, workforce attraction efforts, and tourism activities. The manufacturing pilot received $47,250 in provincial funding to help local businesses adopt Industry 4.0 technologies. The committee also reviewed data on the 'Work in Simcoe County' job portal and marketing campaigns aimed at attracting workers to the region.
- EDS 2021-163: Update on Automation Accelerator pilot funded by $47,250 from OMAFRA
- EDS 2021-170: Update on 'Work in Simcoe County' job portal with 10,494 jobs posted in Q1
- EDS 2021-177: Update on Tourism Simcoe County activities
- Partnerships with Georgian College, Lakehead University, and local municipalities for manufacturing training
Shareholder of the Simcoe County Housing Corporation
The Shareholder of the Simcoe County Housing Corporation meets May 11, 2021 to hold its annual general meeting. It is set to appoint directors named in Schedule 1, reappoint Baker Tilly KDN LLP as auditors, approve the 2021 budget already passed by County Council on November 24, 2020, and ratify the board's 2020 actions. The agenda also adopts minutes from the June 9, 2020 meeting.
- Appointment of directors of the Simcoe County Housing Corporation (SCHC) named in Schedule 1
- Baker Tilly KDN LLP proposed as auditors of SCHC
- 2021 SCHC budget, approved by County Council on November 24, 2020, up for shareholder approval (Schedule 2)
- Ratification of actions taken in 2020 by the SCHC Board of Directors
- Adoption of minutes from the June 9, 2020 shareholder meeting
Grant Program Task Force
The Grant Program Task Force is reviewing staff recommendations to award $486,396.93 to 91 applicants from the 2021 Tourism, Culture and Sport Grant, which has a $600,000 envelope. Staff also recommend temporarily suspending the matching-funds requirement for 2022 and renaming the program the Tourism, Culture and Sport Enhancement Fund effective 2023. The task force is being asked to provide input and direction on the disbursement; no final decision is recorded in the agenda.
- Staff recommend funding 91 of 104 applications for $486,396.93, leaving about $118,603 to carry over to 2022
- 13 applications requesting $84,460.00 are not recommended for funding
- Proposal to suspend the applicant matching-funds requirement for the 2022 grant
- Proposal to rename the program the Tourism, Culture and Sport Enhancement Fund effective 2023
- Banting Legacy Foundation recommended for $19,500 for the 100th anniversary of the discovery of insulin, with matching funds and maximum ask waived
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole meets April 27, 2021 to receive reports and decide on several funding items. Key decisions include approving up to $400,000 for non-profit housing providers' COVID-19 expenses and up to $240,000 for the Barrie East Paramedic Post. The committee will also hear a Lakehead University presentation and consider a by-law eliminating business tax capping for the commercial class.
- Funding of up to $400,000 for Non-Profit Housing Providers' COVID-19 Expenses (Item CCW 2021-009)
- Maximum $240,000 in projected increased cost for the Barrie East Post (Item CCW 2021-173)
- By-law to eliminate business tax capping for the commercial class as of 2021 (Item CCW 2021-155)
- 2020 surplus to be allocated to the General Contingency Reserve (Item CCW 2021-160)
- Lakehead University presentation on business, progress, and future plans
Council
Simcoe County Council meets April 27, 2021 to confirm committee reports and minutes from April 13, and to consider a notice of motion from Councillor Brian Saunderson on transparency and public trust. The motion responds to the Collingwood Judicial Inquiry report by Associate Chief Justice Frank Marrocco, released November 2, 2020, which contained 306 recommendations, some asking the Province of Ontario to change municipal legislation. The agenda is largely procedural; the underlying committee reports and the full motion text are referenced but not detailed in the agenda itself.
- Notice of motion by Councillor Brian Saunderson on Transparency and the Public Trust - Collingwood Judicial Inquiry, referencing 306 recommendations and April 13 staff report CCW 2021-137
- Consideration of Committee of the Whole reports on Performance Management, Human Services, and Corporate Services dated April 13, 2021
- Economic Development Sub-Committee report dated April 13, 2021 for approval
- Confirmation of County Council minutes and Committee of the Whole reports (including a confidential report) from April 13, 2021
- Council Communications and Petitions for April 13-26, 2021 to be received
Simcoe County Housing Corporation Board
The Simcoe County Housing Corporation Board is meeting to approve its agenda and confirm minutes from its November 24, 2020 meeting. The main item, HCB 2021-130, proposes holding the corporation's Annual General Meeting of the Shareholder on May 11, 2021, during County Council, where directors would be appointed, Baker Tilly KDN LLP named auditor, the 2021 budget approved, and 2020 board actions ratified. The agenda also lists confidential matters and adjournment; no dollar figures for the budget are stated in the agenda text itself.
- Item HCB 2021-130 proposes the SCHC Annual General Meeting of the Shareholder be held Tuesday, May 11, 2021
- Proposed appointment of officials named in Schedule 1 as SCHC Directors
- Proposed appointment of Baker Tilly KDN LLP as auditors of SCHC
- Proposed approval of the 2021 SCHC budget (attached as Schedule 2; no dollar amount stated in the agenda text)
- Proposed ratification of actions undertaken in 2020 by the SCHC Board of Directors
Accessibility Advisory Committee
The Joint Accessibility Advisory Committee meets April 15, 2021 to receive a presentation on the County of Simcoe's social and community services and housing development in Orillia, a proposed 130-unit mixed affordable housing and community hub at 250 West Street North. The committee will also receive a legislative update on the AODA Employment Standard and a 2020 accessibility plan status report from the Township of Springwater. Most agenda items are receive-for-information, with no decisions on funding or approvals scheduled.
- Presentation on 250 West St. N. Orillia project: approximately 250,000 sq ft with 60,000 sq ft commercial space and 130 mixed affordable rental units
- Unit mix: 29 studio, 55 one-bedroom, 29 two-bedroom, 17 three-bedroom; rents set at 80% of Average Market Rent
- Construction proposed to begin June/July 2021 pending planning approvals, with occupancy targeted Q4 2023 to Q1 2024
- Item AAC 2021-143: legislative update on the AODA Employment Standard, with eight final recommendations from the Employment Standards Development Committee
- Township of Springwater 2020 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan Status Report received for information
Council
Simcoe County Council meets April 13, 2021 to consider several by-laws, including setting 2021 county rates and tax ratios, a by-law regulating tree harvesting in woodlands, and a transfer payment agreement for Municipal Safe Restart Agreement public transit funding. Council will also receive committee reports on performance management, human services, and corporate services, and consider a motion on transparency related to the Collingwood Judicial Inquiry. Most agenda items are procedural approvals of prior minutes and committee recommendations.
- Bill No. 20 to establish County Rates and Tax Ratios for 2021
- Bill No. 18 to regulate tree harvesting in woodlands and repeal By-law No. 5635
- Bill No. 21 authorizing a Transfer Payment Agreement for Municipal Safe Restart Agreement public transit funding
- Bill No. 19 authorizing agreements related to Reaching Home
- Motion on Transparency and the Public Trust - Collingwood Judicial Inquiry (staff report CCW 2021-137)
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole meets April 13, 2021 to work through a long agenda covering long-term care, social housing, homelessness funding, planning appeals, and waste management. Most items are consent reports received without debate, but several carry recommendations for approval, including a $348,000 capital purchase and 5.7 full-time-equivalent staff for expanded bulky waste collection and cart maintenance. Council will also consider a $19,500 sponsorship for the Sir Frederick Banting Legacy Foundation and responses to planning appeals involving the Township of Tiny and Township of Clearview.
- Waste management: approve $348,000 in capital equipment and 5.7 FTE staff for expanded bulky collection and cart maintenance (Option B); bulky collection postponed to 2022
- Medical curbside waste exemption program amended to 25 free garbage tags annually starting November 1, 2021
- Sir Frederick Banting Legacy Foundation sponsorship of $19,500 for youth-onset diabetes awareness and insulin discovery centennial, funded through Tourism, Culture and Sport Grant
- Planning appeals to LPAT regarding Township of Tiny Official Plan and Township of Clearview Consent 20-B12 (8847 County Road 91)
- 2022 tipping fees: minimum $10.00 per load to remain at County Waste Management Facilities
Economic Development Sub-Committee
Simcoe County's Economic Development Sub-Committee is reviewing a Digital Main Street and Beyond program update that recommends $20,000 to extend digital support for small businesses to June 2021 and to make home-based businesses eligible. It is also being asked to choose among three funding options for the Lake Simcoe Regional Airport Aerospace Development Fund, a three-year program Council approved at $100,000 per year. A tourism item on South Georgian Bay recovery participation is for information only.
- Digital Main Street and Beyond: staff recommend $20,000 to extend the program to June 15, 2021, split between two Small Business Enterprise Centres
- Program eligibility would expand to include registered operating home-based businesses
- Program has served 339 businesses since May 2020, with Midland (60), Innisfil (59) and Collingwood (56) highest
- LSRA Aerospace Development Fund: committee asked to pick Option 1, 2 or 3 for the $100,000-per-year fund approved March 9, 2021
- A $100,000 grant to the Volatus Aerospace Centre of Excellence was previously approved, tied to a reported $1.42 million investment and 17-20 jobs
Lake Simcoe Regional Airport Board
The Lake Simcoe Regional Airport Board meets March 29, 2021 to receive a report on Volatus Aerospace Corp. locating drone assembly and R&D operations in an existing hangar. The report describes a $1.42 million retrofit of a 32,000 square-foot hangar, an anticipated 17-20 new jobs, and a new LSRA Aerospace Development Fund of up to $100,000 per year. Several other items (de-ice truck, snow removal equipment, restaurant services, runway widening, drone regulations) are listed only as verbal staff updates with no detail in the agenda. The board will also approve the agenda and the January 28, 2021 minutes.
- LSRA 2021-127: Volatus Aerospace Corp. investment opportunity — drone assembly/integration and R&D in a leased hangar, with a stated $1.42 million retrofit of a 32,000 sq-ft hangar and 17-20 anticipated jobs
- LSRA Aerospace Development Fund (Schedule 1): up to $100,000 per year for 2021-2023, grants up to 20% of eligible project costs
- Verbal staff updates listed with no detail: de-ice truck, new snow removal equipment, restaurant services, Phase 2 runway widening project, drone regulations
- Adoption of January 28, 2021 meeting minutes
- Approval of the March 29, 2021 agenda
Council
Simcoe County Council meets March 23, 2021, to consider a transfer payment agreement for the Community Paramedicine Long-Term Care program and to confirm committee reports from March 9. Council will also vote on a traffic by-law amendment and a motion requesting the Province freeze public-sector union salary raises. Most agenda items are procedural approvals of prior committee recommendations.
- Community Paramedicine Long-Term Care (CPLTC) transfer payment agreement with the Province, authorizing the Warden and Clerk to sign
- Bill No. 15 to amend Traffic By-law No. 6609
- Motion by Councillor Floyd Pinto requesting the Province freeze salary raises for all public-sector unionized employees
- Committee of the Whole reports from March 9 on Performance Management, Human Services, and Corporate Services
- Governance Committee report from March 2 and Economic Development Sub-Committee report from March 9
Committee of the Whole
Simcoe County's Committee of the Whole meets March 23, 2021 to receive reports and decide several items. Key decisions include approving Reaching Home Year 3 homelessness funding allocations, adopting an updated Forest Conservation By-law, and setting 2021 property tax ratios and rates. The committee will also consider transit funding, waste facility hours, and two official plan amendments, then move into closed session on litigation.
- Reaching Home Year 3 (2021-2022) homelessness funding allocations to be approved, with a by-law authorizing related agreements
- Updated Forest Conservation By-law to be adopted, repealing By-law 5635
- 2021 tax ratios and rates: proposal to eliminate Commercial and Industrial vacant & excess discounts
- Solid Waste: spring 2021 compost and brush chip programs postponed; expanded site hours from May 3, 2021 with 3.1 FTE temporary staff at estimated $200,000
- Official Plan Amendment No. 61 (Springwater) and No. 56 (New Tecumseth) recommended for approval
Affordable Housing Advisory Committee
The Affordable Housing Advisory Committee meets electronically on March 19, 2021, to receive three information items: a 2020 update on progress toward the county's 10-year affordable housing target, an update on the Regionalized Housing First Program, and updates on the Municipal Liaison Group and affordable housing virtual forums. A presentation is also scheduled on the county's social services and housing development project at 250 West St. N. in Orillia. All items are listed as 'received' rather than decisions, and the agenda includes no bylaws, contracts, or public hearings.
- Presentation on the 250 West St. N. Orillia development: about 250,000 sq ft with 130 mixed affordable units, construction targeted to begin June/July 2021 pending planning approvals, occupancy Q4 2023–Q1 2024
- AHA 2021-071: 491 new affordable units created in 2020, bringing the total to 2,364 — 88% of the 2,685-unit 10-year target as of Dec 31, 2020
- Secondary suite discount rate changed to 75% (counting 25% of unfunded secondary suites), as approved by County Council under Recommendation AHA-17-20
- AHA 2021-078: update on the Regionalized Housing First Program, including rent subsidies of up to $600 per month for up to three years paid directly to landlords
- AHA 2021-090: update on the Municipal Liaison Group and affordable housing virtual forums
Economic Development Sub-Committee
The Economic Development Sub-Committee is reviewing 7 applications to the 2021 In-Market Support Special Project Fund, which requested a total of $213,440 against a $100,000 pool. Staff recommend funding five projects at reduced amounts and rejecting two. The committee is also receiving a Tourism Simcoe County 2020 progress report and 2021 work plan, plus a winter campaign update.
- In-Market Support Special Project Fund: 7 applications sought $213,440; staff recommend $100,000 total
- Recommended $35,000 for Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury's Bradford Catalyst Centre (requested $50,000)
- Recommended $33,000 for South Georgian Bay Small Business Enterprise Centre accelerator in Collingwood (requested $50,200)
- Recommended $12,000 full funding for Henry Bernick Entrepreneurship Centre Food Venture Program
- Recommended $0 for Clear Crossing Academy and The Sandbox Centre Mentor HER program
Council
Simcoe County Council meets March 9, 2021 to consider several by-laws, including borrowing $43,596,500 for a roads and bridge project, and two expropriations of land in Innisfil and Bradford West Gwillimbury. Council will also vote on approving a Lake Simcoe Regional Airport Aerospace Development Fund and a related grant application, and receive committee reports. A notice of motion from Councillor Floyd Pinto asks the Province to freeze public-sector union salary raises.
- Bill No. 10: borrowing $43,596,500 via amortizing debentures for a roads and bridge project
- Bill No. 11: expropriation of land in the Town of Innisfil
- Bill No. 12: expropriation of land in the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury
- CO 2021-112 and CO 2021-111: Lake Simcoe Regional Airport Aerospace Development Fund and grant application
- Notice of motion by Councillor Floyd Pinto requesting a provincial freeze on public-sector union salary raises
Committee of the Whole
Simcoe County's Committee of the Whole meets March 9, 2021 to receive updates and approve recommendations on social services, long-term care, waste collection, and road matters. Key decisions include approving 2021 child care service agreements and funding allocations, and extending the Integrity Commissioner agreement with Principles Integrity to March 31, 2023. The committee will also receive an update on Ontario Works employment services and consider a speed limit request on County Road 91, then move into closed session on labour relations and social housing matters.
- 2021 Child Care Service and EarlyON Agreement and Funding Allocations (CCW 2021-038) — approval of program strategies and 2021 service provider funding allocations, with 50/50 provincial/municipal administrative cost sharing
- Integrity Commissioner agreement with Principles Integrity extended to March 31, 2023 (CCW 2021-070)
- Emergency upgrade of door security hardware at Georgian, Simcoe, Sunset and Trillium Manors approved (CCW 2021-099)
- Speed limit on County Road 91 from 400 metres east of Browns Boulevard to the Duntroon 50 km/h zone to be maintained at 80 km/h (CCW 2021-064)
- Closed session on labour relations (CCW 2021-072) and social housing (CCW 2021-082, CCW 2021-083) under Municipal Act Section 239
Governance Committee
The Governance Committee is discussing whether to change County Council's structure and composition, with options ranging from the current 32 councillors to 16, and whether the Warden should be directly elected full-time. Any change would require a special council meeting, public meetings, and "triple majority" approval from all 16 lower-tier municipalities before the 2022 term. Staff warn a decision after May 2, 2021 could jeopardize implementation; a legal opinion says the County cannot appoint a non-elected person as head of council under the Municipal Act.
- Report GOV 2021-067 presents options: 16 or 32 councillors, with a directly elected full-time Warden or an appointed part-time Warden
- Current structure is 32 councillors (status quo) with an appointed Warden; council ratified reporting of 16/32 +1 options on Oct 27, 2020 (Resolution 2020-367)
- Any change triggers "triple majority" approval from all 16 lower-tier municipalities plus County Council, notice, and at least one public meeting
- Schedule 1 legal opinion (John Mascarin, Aird & Berlis, Feb 19, 2021) concludes the Municipal Act does not permit appointing a non-elected head of council
- Staff cite average total per diem of $8,537.40 per County Council/CCW meeting; 123 elected officials serve 245,476 residents (excluding Orillia and Barrie)
Regional Government Review - Service Delivery Task Force
The Regional Government Review Service Delivery Task Force meets to receive updates on several service delivery reviews, including legal services, storm water management, and overall review process progress. The legal services review found that consolidating legal services at the County level is not preferred due to conflict-of-interest concerns, and instead proposes issuing an RFEI/RFP for local law firms to serve groups of municipalities. The task force will also receive an update on storm water management and consider correspondence from the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks regarding Conservation Authorities Act changes.
- Legal services review (RGR 2021-079) recommends distributing survey results to member municipalities and exploring an RFEI/RFP for local law firms to provide legal services by geography
- Storm water management update (RGR 2021-087) seeks direction on what, if anything, the County should do to assist
- Service Delivery Task Force review process updates (RGR 2021-089) on various reviews including transit, water/wastewater, fire, library, land use planning, and conservation authorities
- Correspondence from Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks on Conservation Authorities Act proclamation, including 70% elected official membership requirement and April 3, 2021 deadline for member agreements
- Gantt chart shows most RFP and research tasks complete, but engagement and implementation tasks pending across all service reviews
Planning Advisory Committee
The Planning Advisory Committee meets to receive a presentation from the Rescue Lake Simcoe Coalition on the 10-year review of the Lake Simcoe Protection Plan, and to receive an update on the County's Municipal Comprehensive Review project. The committee is not deciding on the Lake Simcoe recommendations at this meeting; the delegation item is a presentation and the Municipal Comprehensive Review item is for receipt only.
- Rescue Lake Simcoe Coalition delegation on the Lake Simcoe Protection Plan 10-year review, with recommendations on phosphorus reduction, natural heritage protection, and climate adaptation
- Item PAC 2021-076: update on the County of Simcoe Municipal Comprehensive Review project, for receipt
- Coalition recommends reaching a phosphorus reduction target of 44 tonnes per year, down from a 10-year average near 90 tonnes per year
- Coalition seeks $30 million for land acquisition or conservation easements by land trusts
- Coalition calls for stopping Minister's Zoning Orders in the Lake Simcoe watershed
Economic Development Sub-Committee
The Economic Development Sub-Committee is meeting to decide whether to implement the County of Simcoe's Economic Development Strategy 2021-2025 and an Economic Development and Tourism COVID-19 Recovery Plan. It will also receive updates on the 2021 Economic Development Funding Program, workforce attraction, manufacturing innovation, the 2021 work plan and 2020 progress report, a New Tecumseth revised proposal, and Tourism Simcoe County's 2020 progress report and 2021 work plan. The meeting begins with the election of a Chair and Vice-Chair, as the Chair position is vacant.
- Election of Chair and Vice-Chair (Chair position vacant)
- EDS 2021-029: Economic Development Strategy 2021-2025, with a recommendation to implement it and report yearly on performance measures
- EDS 2021-030: Economic Development and Tourism COVID-19 Recovery Plan, with a recommendation to approve immediate implementation and report at mid-year and year-end
- EDS 2021-052: 2021 Economic Development Work Plan and 2020 Progress Report, with a recommendation to approve the proposed 2021 work plan
- EDS 2021-059: 2019 Economic Development Funding Program – New Tecumseth Revised Proposal
Joint Council and Committee of the Whole
Simcoe County Council and Committee of the Whole meet February 9, 2021 to confirm committee reports, consider a motion supporting Collingwood's push for provincial municipal-law changes after the Collingwood Judicial Inquiry, and decide several planning and waste items. Council will also vote on by-laws covering reserve accounts, Official Plan amendments on waste and age-friendly policies, and a new fees and charges by-law. Several land acquisition matters will be discussed in closed session.
- Motion CO 2021-063 by Councillor Brian Saunderson asks the County to support Collingwood's call for provincial review of the Municipal Act and Municipal Conflict of Interest Act, following the 306 recommendations in the Collingwood Judicial Inquiry report released November 2, 2020
- Planning decision on Town of Innisfil Official Plan Amendment No. 3 (Pratt Lands / IMDL Lands), adopted by Innisfil By-law 107-20
- Curbside waste flat-fee update (CCW 2021-065) with a presentation by MTE, asking Council to either maintain the status quo or develop a per-serviced-unit flat waste fee covering blue box, organics and garbage
- By-laws to be enacted: Bill No. 4 (Tourism Simcoe Reserve Account, repealing By-law 4556), Bill No. 5 (Lake Simcoe Regional Airport Reserve Account), Bill No. 6 (Waste Management Official Plan Amendment 5), Bill No. 7 (Age-Friendly Official Plan Amendment 6), and Bill No. 8 (fees and charges, repealing By-law 6837)
- Closed session under Municipal Act s.239(2)(c) on three confidential items (CCW 2021-050, 051, 056) concerning proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land
Lake Simcoe Regional Airport Board
The Lake Simcoe Regional Airport Board meets to receive two reports: an update on the runway project (widening from 100 ft to 150 ft, with a future extension to 7,000 ft) and the airport's 2020 annual update covering COVID-19 impacts. The runway report recommends Option 2, a single concrete box culvert estimated at $1.5 million to cross Shelswell Creek, over Option 1's two culverts at $5–6 million. Property purchases for the crossing would be budgeted in 2022. The board will also receive OCWA correspondence on COVID-19 and approve prior minutes.
- Runway widening from 100 ft to 150 ft, funded partly by a $1.5 million SWODF grant; completion expected late spring 2021
- Two culvert options to cross Shelswell Creek for a future 7,000 ft runway: Option 1 at $5–6 million, Option 2 at $1.5 million; staff pursuing Option 2
- Land purchases planned for 2022: about 17 acres on the Sixth Line and one acre on the Fifth Line
- Airport saw ~35% reduction in aircraft movements in 2020 due to COVID-19; revenues expected only negligibly lower than 2019
- OCWA correspondence on COVID-19 client communication received as consent agenda item
Council
Simcoe County Council meets January 26, 2021 to consider a staff report on curbside waste transfer, including a $5,520,000 capital budget for a facility at the Oro Waste Management Facility and three new staff positions. Council will also vote on a by-law authorizing borrowing of up to $159,067,000 and confirm committee reports from January 12. Most agenda items are procedural approvals and confirmations.
- CO 2021-017: $5,520,000 capital budget for a temporary curbside waste transfer facility at Oro Waste Management Facility, funded from Waste Management Contingency Reserve
- CO 2021-017: Addition of two Full Time Equipment Operators and one Site Attendant
- Bill No. 2: By-law to authorize borrowing of up to $159,067,000 and repeal By-law No. 6834
- Committee of the Whole reports for Performance Management, Human Services, and Corporate Services to be approved (Corporate Services excluding Delegated Authority item)
- Bill No. 3: Confirmatory by-law for the January 26, 2021 meeting
Committee of the Whole
Simcoe County's Committee of the Whole is reviewing several planning and human services items, including three one-time provincial funding agreements totaling $456,008 for Community Paramedicine COVID-19 response, and two requests to adopt amendments to the County Official Plan covering waste management and age-friendly policies. The committee will also consider approving Township of Tay and Township of Ramara official plan amendments, a new Consolidated Fees and Charges By-law, and temporary communications and marketing staffing. Most items are recommendations to be forwarded to County Council.
- Accept $456,008 in one-time Community Paramedicine funding from the NSM and Central LHINs for COVID-19 wellness clinics, swabbing, vaccine support and program expansion, to be spent by March 31, 2021
- Adopt Official Plan Amendment No. 5 for Waste Management Policies and Schedules and forward it to the Province for approval
- Adopt Official Plan Amendment No. 6 for Age-Friendly Policies and forward it to the Province for approval
- Approve Township of Tay Official Plan Amendment No. 42 and Township of Ramara Official Plan Amendment No. 19 (gun clubs and/or firearm shooting ranges)
- Amend the Consolidated Fees and Charges By-law, repealing and replacing By-law No. 6837
Regional Government Review - Service Delivery Task Force
The Regional Government Review Service Delivery Task Force meets to receive updates on multiple service delivery reviews, including conservation authorities, fire services, library services, land use planning, storm water management, legal services, transit, and water/wastewater. The task force will receive a report (RGR 2021-053) on the review process updates and correspondence from the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks about a new conservation authorities working group. Most review tasks are still in progress or pending, with transit review expected to be completed by spring 2022 as part of the Transportation Master Plan.
- Receiving RGR 2021-053 update on service delivery review processes
- Correspondence from Minister Yurek on new Conservation Authorities Working Group with 10 members
- Environmental Registry bulletin on updating the Conservation Authorities Act (ERO 019-2646)
- Gantt chart shows reviews of fire, library, planning, storm water, legal, transit, water/wastewater services
- Transit review to be completed by Spring 2022 as part of Transportation Master Plan
Audit and Finance Committee
The Audit and Finance Committee meets to receive several reports, including compliance and external audit results, financial policies, the County's insurance program, and a 2022 budget document format proposal. It will also consider establishing new reserves for Tourism Simcoe County and the Lake Simcoe Regional Airport, and preparing a debenture with Infrastructure Ontario to finance municipal roads infrastructure.
- AUC 2021-031: By-law to establish a Tourism Simcoe County Reserve and repeal By-law No. 4556
- AUC 2021-036: By-law to establish a Lake Simcoe Regional Airport Reserve
- AUC 2021-041: Prepare documents for a debenture with Infrastructure Ontario to finance Municipal Roads Infrastructure
- AUC 2021-037: Approval of Lake Simcoe Regional Airport Tangible Capital Asset Policy update
- AUC 2021-040: Proposed 2022 Budget document to follow 2021 format with minor amendments
Affordable Housing Advisory Committee
The Affordable Housing Advisory Committee meets electronically on January 15, 2021, with a vacant chair to be filled by an election of chair and vice-chair. The committee will consider three items: a report on affordable housing advocacy and how Ontario service managers apply 'housing as a right', a 21 Suites Campaign for 2021, and Phase 3 of the County's 10-year affordable housing and homelessness prevention strategy. Most items are for approval or receipt, and no dollar figures are stated in the agenda.
- Election of chair and vice-chair; chair position is vacant
- AHA 2021-004: advocacy options with SCATEH and a review of how 47 Ontario service managers apply 'housing as a right' (for receipt)
- AHA 2021-008: 21 Suites Campaign: 21 in 2021 (recommendations for approval)
- AHA 2021-012: Phase 3 implementation plan of the 10-year affordable housing and homelessness prevention strategy (for approval)
- Next meeting scheduled for Friday, March 19, 2021
Accessibility Advisory Committee
The Joint Accessibility Advisory Committee meets January 14, 2021 to elect a chair and vice-chair (the chair position is vacant), approve its agenda, and receive its 2021 workplan. The committee will also receive a legislative update on Ontario's Information and Communications Standard, covering 32 recommendations on accessible websites, documents, and emergency information. Most items are for information or receipt rather than decisions.
- Election of Chair and Vice-Chair; the Chair position is listed as vacant
- 2021 workplan includes facility reviews of the Adjala-Tosorontio Administration Centre (July 15) and Oro-Medonte Administration Centre (August 19)
- Legislative update AAC 2021-013 on the Information and Communications Standard, with 32 recommendations including updating WCAG 2.0 to 2.1 and removing live captioning exemptions by January 1, 2022
- Memorandum on Ontario's International Day of Persons with Disabilities statement; Warden George Cornell proclaimed December 3, 2020
- Next meeting scheduled for Thursday, April 15, 2021
Council
Simcoe County Council is holding its regular January 12, 2021 electronic meeting. The published agenda is largely procedural: it covers approval of the agenda, receipt of council communications and petitions from Nov. 24, 2020 to Jan. 11, 2021, adoption of four sets of minutes from November and December 2020 meetings, and enactment of the confirmatory by-law (Bill No. 1). No substantive decisions, contracts, or public hearings appear as separate items on this agenda.
- Adoption of Joint Council and Committee of the Whole minutes from Nov. 24, 2020
- Adoption of Council Public Meeting minutes on Official Plan Amendments SC-OPA-1901 and SC-OPA-1902 (Nov. 24, 2020)
- Adoption of Mid-Term Inaugural Council minutes from Dec. 8, 2020
- Receipt of Council Communications and Petitions covering Nov. 24, 2020 to Jan. 11, 2021
- Enactment of Bill No. 1, the confirmatory by-law for the Jan. 12, 2021 meeting
Procurement Information Workshop
County Council attended a virtual information workshop on the County of Simcoe's procurement by-law and processes. The presentation covered how public procurement works, procurement oversight and policy, the difference between Requests for Tender and Requests for Proposal, dispute resolution, and the Bellamy Report best practices. No decisions or votes were on the agenda; this was an information session only.
- Workshop states the County spends over $200 million annually on goods, services, construction and leased space, with 200+ RFx processes issued each year
- Presentation notes no formal litigation against the County since the revised Procurement Policy was approved by Council in 2002
- Covers RFT (lowest price award) versus RFP (highest score award) processes
- Describes a stepped Alternate Dispute Resolution process ending in mediation or arbitration
- Reviews the Bellamy Report's 241 recommendations adopted as best practices, and MFIPPA/trade-agreement limits on information disclosure
Committee of the Whole
Simcoe County's Committee of the Whole meets on January 12, 2021 to decide on several planning and policy items, including approval of the Township of Tiny's new Official Plan and a proposed Medical Assistance in Dying policy for county long-term care homes. The committee will also receive updates on COVID-19 in long-term care, a borrowing by-law, and a forestry assessment. Several items are routine consent agenda approvals and correspondence.
- Approval of Township of Tiny Official Plan (adopted by By-law 2018-098), with non-decision placed on lands near Perkinsfield, Wyevale, Lafontaine, Wyebridge, Toanche and 2 Darby Road due to outstanding LPAT appeals
- Proposed Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) policy for County Long-Term Care and Seniors Services to be endorsed
- Borrowing by-law authorizing the County to borrow temporarily on its line of credit for 2021 payment obligations
- Simcoe County Forest Canada Target 1 Assessment — staff to report specific forest properties to the Canadian Protected and Conserved Areas Database
- Endorsement of Clearview resolution on Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act 'Time for Change'