South Frontenac Council – July 9

Wilma Kenny | Jul 10, 2014

Financial Audit Report

Howard Allan, a Chartered Accountant from Perth, reviewed his company’s audit of South Frontenac’s 2013 finances. Mr Allan made it clear that his approach was broader than merely reviewing the financial statements; it included a thorough review of governance policies and administrative and decision-making processes relating to “The orderly and efficient conduct of the Township’s business.”

Although he made a few minor recommendations, Allan’s overall report was very positive. He complimented staff on their cooperation, high level of professionalism and well-maintained records. “The Township’s financial position is strong.”

Development Charges Update

South Frontenac is the only Township in the County that presently levies development charges. A development charge is a fee that may be added to residential building permits, to help offset the increased costs of providing services to the new residents. Although the highest percentage of the charge goes to public works (roads, bridges, equipment), money is also apportioned to fire protection, police services, general government, recreation and libraries. A public meeting to review the Ainsley Group’s background study and recommendations on the Township’s charges drew no comments from the floor. An updated fee schedule will be incorporated into a by-law this fall.

Proposed Signage By-law

Public Works Manager Mark Segsworth brought a draft by-law intended to address the proliferation of signs within some of the Township’s road allowances. He said that the question of commercial signage (which includes the blue ‘government-looking’ tourism signs) will need further discussion: should the Township rent road allowance space, or restrict commercial signs to a specific distance from the road?

Long Swamp Bridge to Remain Closed for Now

The roads department has just received a draft version of the Long Swamp bridge assessment, and has not had time to thoroughly review it. The options listed are: 1) do nothing/confirm load posting, 2) remove bridge and close road, 3) strengthen existing bridge, and 4) replace with new structure. Projected costs of these options run from $5,000 to $200,000.

Council accepted Segsworth’s recommendation that the Long Swamp Road remain temporarily closed until this issue has been resolved.