Julie Druker | Jul 16, 2015


Septic Re-inspection

Although no hard numbers have been determined as yet regarding the potential cost to homeowners resulting from the soon to be finalized septic re-inspection program, Chief Building Official Jeremy Neven stressed the fact that if a system fails it will definitely have to be replaced.

Neven made the statement when pressed by Councilor Brent Cameron, who reiterated his long time concern about affordability issues for low-income residents whose systems fail.

“I just want to make sure that when you are recommending that staff include associated costs in the committee’s report, that staff will also be looking into possible funding options that might be made available to help those who can't afford to replace their systems,” said Cameron

Neven recommended that township staff prepare a draft licensing by-law for septic pumpers and haulers with associated schedules, along with a draft of a proposed reporting format.

A communication plan to inform the public and receive their input on the proposed program is also recommended. Council also instructed the septic re-inspection committee to investigate all associated costs and implementation requirements before bringing the plan back to council.

Bud Clayton dedication

Mayor Frances Smith made council and guests aware of an upcoming special events day hosted by the Township of North Frontenac, which will take place on August 22 at the Clar-Mill Hall in Plevna. The event will include a memorial dedication to former North Frontenac mayor and county warden, Bud Clayton, who passed away last year.

New building inspector in CF

Council passed a motion appointing Scott Richardson as a township building inspector. Richardson will be undertaking the role in an “as needed basis” as defined under the agreement between North and Central Frontenac's Shared Building Services Department. Under that same agreement, Jeremy Neven has been appointed chief building official for both townships.

New load restrictions on the Oclean Lane bridge

In the wake of Raymo Road bridge collapse, council passed a motion limiting the maximum load on a little used bridge near Tichborne. The maximum load has been limited to 5 tonnes per axle with a maximum of three axles.

New Stop Signs

Council supported a request by Public Works Coordinator Kyle Labbett to install a three-way stop sign at the intersection of Anderson Road North and Old Anderson Road in Crow Lake. A second stop sign was approved and will be installed at the exit of the Recreation Park in Arden where that road exits at Queen and Bridge streets.

Full time position approved for public works staff

Council passed a motion recommended by Kyle Labbett to change one public works staff's position from a part-time contract position to a full-time one. Labbett said that the increase would enable staff to “maintain their expected level of service” and would “allow for continuous and ongoing maintenance in specific areas while also balancing out the work force at the township’s two garages.” 

Procurement Policy tabled

Councilor Victor Heese raised concerns about approving council’s new procurement policy as prepared by treasurer J. Michael McGovern. Heese cited his reasoning as “not because I am opposed to the by-law, but rather, that it needs some clarification.”

Because council currently has no CAO, Heese sees a need to have the wording made more precise so there is no confusion. Council tabled the by-law, giving staff more time to fine tune it.

Construction numbers up

In his report to council, CBO Jeremy Neven said this year is looking very good, with June's construction value numbers sitting at a robust $1,235,300, the best June in three years. Neven said that the numbers could continue to rise. The number of permits issued in June was 17, which matches last year’s total. So far this year, permits for eight new residential units have been taken out.

Upcoming Hazardous Waste Day - Saturday, July 18

Staff and members of council will be running a free household hazardous waste day at the intersection of Road 38 and Highway 7 on Saturday, July 18 from 9a.m. – 2p.m. Residents are encouraged to drop off all of their hazardous waste so that it can be safely disposed of.

Delegations

Anne Marie Young, Manager of Sustainability at the County of Frontenac, outlined for council the county's 150th celebrations that will be taking place at Harrowsmith's Centennial Park on the weekend of August 28, 29 and 30. Organizers have been planning the event for the last four years and events will include a plowing match, parades, live music, historical displays, numerous food and craft vendors, a costume ball, various fun activities for children of all ages, magic shows, a full midway with Ferris wheel and carousel and more.

A-60 person re-enactment crew will be firing off cannons and re-enacting a number of historic battle scenes over the three-day weekend event. Organizers are encouraging visitors to bring along family and friends for what will be one very special summer weekend to remember.

Arden delegations

Arden residents took advantage of council meeting at their hall and three delegations were made by local residents. They included a presentation by Wanda Harrison, chair of the District 1 Recreation Committee, who outlined the programs they offer and their hopes for the future.

A second presentation was made by Peggy Breihaupt, who spoke on behalf of the Arden Seniors Happy Gang about their programming, and a final presentation was made by Terry Kennedy of the Friends of Arden group, who spoke of the group’s history and their many accomplishments since they formed.

Following the delegations, council and attendees were treated to a delicious dinner courtesy of the Friends of Arden and the Arden volunteer firefighters.

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