Feature Article - March 29, 2007

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Feature Article - March 29, 2007

Rural Routes receives county funding, but future is still uncertainby Jeff Green

Frontenac County council spent more time discussing a $46,500 expenditure directed towards the Rural Routes transportation program – an expenditure that represents fractions of a percentage point of the more than $14 million county budget - than they did on any other item during this year’s budget process.

The issue was so divisive, with councillors split evenly on north-south lines, that the issue was put aside until the meeting following the passage of the budget itself.

The issue seemed simple enough at the start.

Rural Routes is a transportation program that was set up over the past couple of years to consolidate transportation services offered by various agencies serving North and Central Frontenac and parts of South Frontenac. It was a response to a needs study that was initiated by Northern Frontenac Community Services, which serves that particular region. Rural Routes’ main objective is to provide rides to medical and social services. The rides are funded by the social agencies, or by the riders themselves.

It received a series of start up grants from the Trillium Foundation, the Ontario Ministry of Health, and the Frontenac Community Futures Development Corporation, but as those grants ran out, Rural Routes followed the lead of other similar programs in rural Eastern Ontario by seeking funding at the municipal level. The County of Lanark and the County of Hastings both fund rural transportation services that operate on a similar model, so Rural Routes approached Frontenac County, seeking $46,500 in 2007, and as well hopefully making themselves eligible for provincial gas tax funding totalling up to $35,000, which requires that they be considered a municipal service.

The complication for Frontenac County councillors lies in the fact that Rural Routes does not serve most of South Frontenac Township and is unheard of in the Frontenac Islands.

When the budget was being discussed, Mayor Gary Davison of South Frontenac and Mayor Jim Vanden-Hoek of the Frontenac Islands made it clear they would only consider approving the $46,500 allocation if it were explicitly called a one-time grant to help the project get off the ground. They wanted to close the door on any possibility that Rural Routes would be back knocking at the county’s door in 2008.

Mayors Janet Gutowski from Central Frontenac and Ron Maguire from North Frontenac both resisted this pressure from their counterparts from the south, saying that the money should be given on a pilot basis, with the possibility of future funding as the program perhaps expands to include more of South Frontenac.

To bridge this impasse, the matter was deferred. County staff prepared a report, which was presented to County Council last week, on March 21st.

The report, prepared by Deputy County Clerk Susan Beckel, outlined three options. The first would see the county take Rural Routes on as a county program, and allocate the $46,500. This option was never even discussed at last week’s council meeting.

The second option, which was initially favoured by Mayor’s Davison and Vanden-Hoek, would see a “one-time grant of $46,500 with no further county involvement.”

The third option, which was recommended by staff and was well received by the northern mayors, would see an allocation of $36,500, “reserving $10,000 for the county to undertake the development of a business plan” for the service.

This plan, County CAO explained, would look at the viability of the service, taking the transportation needs of the county as a whole into account.

Although the staff recommendation included the statement that this funding would carry no commitment on county’s part beyond 2007 unless council makes that decision, Mayor Vanden-Hoek sought further assurances.

First, he said that if indeed transportation was the number one issue for North and Central Frontenac they should consider looking into their own budgets in the future. He then added a proviso that county staff be given the task of seeking outside funding for the service, and he insisted on an amendment, which stated that any future county funding for Rural Routes be raised only from those regions that make use of the service.

At this point, everyone was happy. Rural Routes receives $36,500, subject to certain conditions, the northern mayors don’t have to worry about it when they work on their own 2007 budgets, county staff have a business plan to prepare, and the southern mayors have the assurance that their own taxpayers will not be on the hook for the service in future years.

As to what will happen to Rural Routes in 2008, the phrase “yet to be determined” springs to mind.

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Feature Article - March 15, 2007

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Feature Article - March 15, 2007

CentralFrontenac Council, March 12, 2007byJeffGreen

Glen Fox threatens – “Fix it or I’ll be back”Glen Fox appeared before a meeting of Central Frontenac Council to talk about a problem at the front of the Oddfellows’ Hall in Parham. When Road 38 was rebuilt last year, it affected the buildings in Parham that border the road. In most cases, the contractors repaired any damages that had been caused, “but in our case, they only made it worse,” Fox told council.

“The township uses the hall when it needs it, as you know,” Fox added, “and the township did donate $200 in 1892 towards building the hall, so I think you want to get them to fix what they’ve done. Water is building up, and there is ice and many seniors are finding it hard to get into the building.”

Councilor Bob Harvey said, “The contractor is coming back in the spring.”

Deputy Mayor Bill Snyder said, “ I agree with Mr. Fox. They should have fixed the problem. I think it’s very unfair.”

“I know we have a number of small projects on Road 38 for them to finish, and we’ll make sure this is on the list,” said Mayor Janet Gutowski.

“Twenty-five years ago, I’d have made sure that they finished before I let them leave in the first place,” Glen Fox added. “Well, I hope to hear from you. If I don’t, I’ll be back.”

Blue Heron Ridge redux – Mike Wise from the Blue Heron Ridge Road Association made another presentation to council. Wise has appeared before council on two previous occasions over the past year, presenting information in support of the township providing grants to help with the maintenance of so-called un-assumed township roads.

As Mike Wise pointed out, “un-assumed roads are owned by the township and are part of the township’s roads network. The township has jurisdiction over them. The public has the same right of access as they do on other township roads. The only difference is that un-assumed roads are being maintained by the owners of the adjoining properties and assumed roads are being maintained with public funds. We believe this to be unfair.”

The road association is asking that the township provide a grant to them to cover a part of the road maintenance. In the case of Blue Heron Ridge, they are asking for $4,350, according to a formula they have worked out for how all un-assumed roads would be supported if council decides to take this on.

Mike Wise then pointed out that the 62 property owners on Blue Heron Ridge constitute 2.1% of the property tax paid in the township, and $4,350 would be about 0.03% of the amount of money the township spends each year.

“When that road was developed,” Deputy Mayor Bill Snyder asked Mike Wise, “did you not have an agreement with Kennebec [the township at the time] that you would take care of the road?”

“People knew the roads were un-assumed when they purchased their properties, but things have changed, and expectations have changed as well,” Wise replied.

“Have you done research into the number and length of un-assumed roads in the township?” asked Mayor Gutowski.

“We tried, but there is no concrete database of un-assumed roads. That needs to be developed,” Mike Wise answered.

Council received the documentation provided by the Blue Heron Ridge Road Association for information purposes.

Bridge tender awarded – A tender in the amount of $88,835.20 from All Service for superstructure repairs to the Cranberry Lake Road Bridge was approved. The bid was the lowest of 10 received by the township for the project. The next lowest bid was $99,958 from AMCO construction.

When the project was originally tendered in the fall, the lowest of two competing bids was $132,000, which was over the amount budgeted for the project.

“By tendering in the early winter, when the companies haven’t been booked yet for the year, we have had many more bidders and better prices,” said acting CAO John DuChene.

“I don’t see enough information here to feel comfortable accepting this bid,” said Councilor Gary Smith. “How do we know that All Services can do the job for that price?”

“We are relying on our consultants, McCormick Rankin. They have reviewed the bids,” answered John Duchene.

The tender was awarded to All Service in a unanimous vote.

Roads primer and ’07 project list – The township’s information technologist Chris Matheson presented a detailed document outlining the terminology used in road maintenance and upgrading discussions. Each councilor received a copy of the 100-page document, which has been developed over the past month by Matheson and other members of township staff, and is intended to give council a grounding on the different categories of road; the need for a solid base before roads are considered for paving, traffic counts; and the GRIPPS program, whereby the state of repair of roads is ranked on a scale of 0-100.

Each year the roads budget is the largest single element in the township’s overall budget, and Mayor Gutowski thanked Matheson for bringing this information forward before council begins considering the 2007 budget next week.

Attached to Chris Matheson’s background report was a road improvement project report from interim clerk Duchene.

It included a list of projects being recommended by staff. The list includes: $70,940 to complete a rehabilitation program on the Arden Rd.; $30,000 to complete construction on Road 509; and two projects on Eagle Lake Road, one at the railroad crossing and one near the boat launch, at a total cost of $78,300. Work is also proposed at five trouble spots on the Shibley Road ($67,300), 6 spots on the Elm Tree Road ($46,400), 4 spots on the Tryon Road ($39,000), 3 places on the McLean Road ($28,100), 2 places on the Fall River Road ($24,700), 2 on the Zealand Road ($17,000), 1 on White Lake Road #10,900, and 1 on the Oak Flats Road ($9,700).

The total cost of all these projects will be $422,340 if approved.

In addition to these staff recommendations, this year the district councillors were asked to consult with each other and propose some projects from their own districts. In some cases these projects are the same as the ones the staff is recommending, but in some they are different.

The councilor projects for Kennebec District are: the Kirk and Elm Tree roads (vertical alignment), and the completion of Arden Road. In Olden, the projects are the Frontenac, Tryon, and McLean roads. In Oso, the proposed projects are: Shibley, Wagner, and Zealand roads. Finally, in Hinchinbrooke, they are the Mary Moore and Wilkinson roads, Oak Flats Road (Struthers to Davy) and Eagle Lake Road.

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Feature Article - March 15, 2007

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Feature Article - March 15, 2007

North Frontenac CouncilbyJeffGreen

OMPAH HELIPAD AGREEMENT – Deputy Mayor Jim Beam was scheduled to bring a draft agreement forward, but he reported that he will be meeting this weekend, accompanied by Councilor Lonnie Watkins, with Mr. Thibault, who owns the land due south of the helipad location. They will be discussing what tree clearing will need to be done, and what kind of agreement is needed. Beam said he should have a draft agreement ready for the council meeting on March 22nd in Snow Road.

PINE LAKE on the agenda, sort of – Mayor Maguire confirmed that a proposed meeting with federal, provincial and municipal officials, and the Ardoch Algonquin First Nation (AAFNA) to discuss the Pine Lake construction project would not take place. The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR), representing Ontario, declined the invitation, as did AAFNA, and there has been no response from the federal government.

Maguire also said that he has received further indications that the environmental assessment for the project, which AAFNA is financing and arranging, is acceptable to the MNR. The MNR is considering issuing a land use permit, a permit that AAFNA is not seeking, nor will it accept.

“Nonetheless, if the MNR presents them with a land use permit, that would be progress,” Maguire said.

Councillor Cole had attempted to introduce an editorial from the National Post for council’s consideration, but this was not acceptable to the Mayor.

Referring to what he called a “gag order”, Cole said that there was one point from the editorial, which concerned the situation in Caledonia, which he wanted to bring up.

“They mention that the federal and provincial governments and the aboriginals are negotiating, but they don’t mention the municipality. It’s the same at Pine Lake; North Frontenac should not be involved in this. It’s not our problem,” Wayne Cole said.

“If AAFNA does build, the staff must fulfill their responsibilities” Maguire responded.

“I agree with you, but only after a land use permit is issued. Until then we should stay out of it,” Cole replied.

Council took no action on the matter.

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Feature Article - March 15, 2007

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Feature Article - March 15, 2007

Break, enter and theft unit credited with lowering incidents in South Frontenacby Jeff Green

In presenting a Policing for Results community survey and the 2007 business plan for the Frontenac Detachment to South Frontenac Council, Staff Sgt. Glenn Fowler brought news of the success the detachment has had in recent years in the number one commitment made under their plan: reducing the incidence of break and enters in the township.

“The incidence of break and enter committed in South Frontenac has declined in recent years,” Fowler said.

There were 134 break-ins in 2002, 183 in 2003, 136 in 2004, 83 in 2005, and 50 in 2006. “We have a dedicated B and E unit that aggressively pursues suspects and makes arrests as quickly as possible. This means that one or two thefts take place by a group that begins engaging in this activity, instead of 15 or 20,” Fowler told council.

There are five other commitments in the detachment’s business plan. The second is to take action against drinking and driving or operating snowmobiles, ATVs or boats. Impaired driving charges have remained relatively constant in the township over the past five years. The third commitment is to enhance safe travel on Hwys. 15 and 401 through patrolling. The fourth is to portray a positive image to the public and the fifth is to enforce rules against speeding and aggressive driving on major roads in the township, such as Road 38, Battersea Road, and Perth Road. The sixth commitment is to advise victims of crime of the outcome of police investigation within 30 days of the crime taking place.

Sergeant Fowler said that the detachment tweaks its business plan each year, but most of the commitments are ongoing. Council seemed to like what Sgt. Fowler had to tell them, commending the Frontenac Detachment for their continuing efforts.

Water treatment plant report – Engineers from Utililties Kingston presented their first annual report on the quality of water being pumped out of the Sydenham Water treatment plant. While there have been so-called “background” issues related to the plant getting up and running, the report concluded that “water of good quality which is safe to drink was produced by the treatment plant during this reporting period.”

Spurned Dog Lake cottage owner to go to OMB – Ruth Dubin, who owns a small 558 sq. ft. cottage that has no plumbing or septic system and is about 25 feet from the high water mark on Dog Lake, has made a second application for approval to build a 350 sq. ft. extension to the rear of her cottage. Her plan is to put in a septic system, an indoor bathroom and a kitchen as part of the renovation.

A report by township planner Lindsay Mills recommended rejecting the application, on the grounds that the township’s Official Plan stipulates that new construction be located at least 30 metres (98.4 ft.) from the high water mark of township lakes.

While buildings that were already in place when the Official Plan was brought into force five years ago are exempted from this provision, additions or new construction must conform. Mills said that in this case the property owner has another alternative:, to build an entirely new cottage on a six-foot ridge at the back of her property.

Dubin’s representative Ray Essiambre told council that building on the ridge would produce a structure visible from across the lake, which the Official Plan does not favour, and said that she has no intention of tearing down her existing dwelling, which in spite of some problems is still in good repair.

“I think it is narrow minded of council to say the existing situation is legal, when there is only a privy, and no water system at all, at the same time rejecting a proposal which would see an approved septic system put into place,” Essiambre said. “We will go to the OMB [Ontario Municipal Board], which will cost the township and ourselves a lot of money, if council rejects this.”

Ruth Dubin addressed council briefly, saying that the proposal that she build in the ridge would have more environmental impacts than renovating her existing cottage, because of the impacts on turtle nesting grounds and black rat snake nesting grounds.

Councilor David Hahn said he found the case made by Mr. Essiambre convincing, and the case made by township planner Lindsay Mills convincing as well. “Every similar case that has come to the committee of adjustment over the past five years has been rejected, so I think we need to reject this one as well.”

A bylaw which would have approved the zoning amendment that Ruth Dubin was seeking was defeated when it came before council later in the meeting.

Fire budget up $30,000 – Fire Chief Rick Cheseborough brought the 2007 fire budget to council for approval. Of the $30,000 increase in the budget, which equals 2.73%, $15,000 comes from an increase to the vehicle replacement budget that was approved by the previous council. Another $3,000 comes from an increase in capital requirements, and the rest comes from increased gas, diesel, safety equipment and equipment maintenance costs.

The 2006 operating budget generated a sizeable surplus, but Cheseborough recommended putting $91,000 into a reserve fund as a hedge against a busy fire year causing the wage budget to be inadequate.

“It’s good to have a wage reserve,” said Councilor Ron Vandewal, “and if we start seeing that reserve growing to $180,000 or something, we can make changes to the budget next year.” Council gave approval in principle to the fire budget.

Salt containment study – A salt containment study has been granted to Jewel and Associates. The study will look at the five salt containment sites in the township, find any deficiencies, and recommend remediation. It will be funded through the Federal Gas tax rebate.

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Feature Article - March 15, 2007

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Bill MacDonald to seek provincial Liberal nominationby Jeff Green

Former Central Frontenac Mayor Bill MacDonald is attempting a political comeback four months after being defeated in a municipal election. MacDonald served 18 years on municipal council, the last nine as mayor, and has served as Warden of Frontenac County on two occasions, the most recent being 2005.

Throughout his municipal career, Bill MacDonald avoided any over-affiliation with provincial or federal political parties. “As a municipal politician, I had to deal with whichever party was in power, so I stayed away from party politics, but I have always been a Liberal supporter,” he said in an interview earlier this week.

“I have met people from throughout the riding over the years, and I feel I have an understanding of the issues that matter to people in the rural areas. I’d like to bring that perspective to Toronto.”

MacDonald also said that Central Frontenac has done well under the provincial Liberals.

Bill MacDonald owns his own logging and educational sales businesses.

Ian Wilson, of Amherstview, who announced his intention to seek the party nomination in February, has also served on municipal council, in Ernestown. A career educator at St. Lawrence College, where he rose to the position of Dean of the School of Business, Wilson has been active in various Kingston-based volunteer bodies over the years, including the Chamber of Commerce, Kingston Area Recycles (KARC), and others. Most recently, he has served as the inaugural chair of the Southeast Ontario Local Health Integration Network.

A date has not yet been set for a nomination meeting, although one is expected by mid-May

The date of the next provincial election is known, however. In a break with tradition, the election date has been set in advance. It will be held on October 10th.

The date of the next federal election, on the other hand is extremely uncertain.

In order to be prepared, the federal Liberals will be naming their candidate this Saturday at the Piccadilly Hall. With the nomination deadline approaching, only one candidate has come forward so far, former parliamentary assistant and one-time Mayor of Napanee, Dave Remington.

The Conservative and Green Parties have already named their federal candidates for Lanark Frontenac Lennox and Addington. They are three-time incumbent MP Scott Reid, and newcomer Chris Walker, respectively.

A date for a federal NDP candidate selection meeting is expected shortly.

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Feature Article - March 8, 2007

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Feature Article - March 8, 2007

Addington Highlands CouncilbyJeffGreen

During his report to council at this past Monday’s Addington Highlands Council meeting, Roads Superintendent Royce Rosenblath told council that the supplier of sand and gravel that serves the north end of the township does not intend to seek a license to continue operating his pit when regulations come into force on July 1st.

“This puts the township in a position of having to lease the pit from him or buy it outright if we want to keep sourcing material locally,” Rosenblath told council.

The Aggregate Resources Act has been in place throughout southern Ontario for a dozen years, but several rural townships were exempted when the act was originally proclaimed. Legislation will come into place on July 1st bringing the act into force in Addington Highlands , as well as Central and North Frontenac.

At a meeting for pit owners that was held in Sharbot Lake, Ministry of Natural Resources officials explained that small operators who wish to comply with the act can do so by purchasing a “B” license at a cost of $200, and submit a sketch of their operation, but they must do so before June, after which time the price will go up.

North Frontenac Township councillor Fred Perry was in the gallery at Monday’s Addington Highlands meetings. He offered that he had attended a 15-minute meeting between David Ramsay, the Minister of Natural Resources, and the mayors of Central and North Frontenac, which was held during last week’s Good Roads conference in Toronto.

“The mayors were asking that the legislation not be proclaimed, but Ramsay said it was too late. He did say the regulations could be loosened somewhat, but the Aggregate Resources Act is coming,” Fred Perry told Addington Highlands Council.

The Ministry of Natural Resources has been trying to contact pit owners to let them know what they need to do to comply, but since the pits are currently unregulated in these townships, they often don’t know who to contact.

“There are only 3 pits in Addington Highlands that were contacted by the MNR,” said Deputy Reeve Helen Yanch.

Mileage for committee members Township Clerk Jack Pauhl brought forward amendments to the township’s procedural bylaw in order to comply with Bill 130, the new Municipal Act in Ontario . Among the items to be clarified was the matter of mileage payments for members of township committees.

The practice has been that members of the public who sit on committees who submit requests have been receiving forty cents a kilometre to offset their costs to attend meetings, but not all members of committees have submitted requests.

“If people are willing to volunteer for township committees, I suppose we should cover their mileage,” said Reeve Henry Hogg.

Deputy Reeve Helen Yanch said she didn’t agree, but the amendment to the procedural bylaw was approved.

Quinte Conservation budget increase Addington Highlands will pay $12,469 to Quinte Conservation in 2007, a 3% increase. The township was also levied $230 to cover capital costs for a dam rehabilitation project near Madoc.

“Why do we have to pay for something that far from here?” asked Deputy Reeve Yanch.

“They are also doing a $75,000 project at Deer Rock Lake ,” said Councillor Eythel Grant.

“I guess, like my Hydro bill,” Yanch replied, “I have to pay it even if I don’t like it.”

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Feature Article - March 8, 2007

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SouthFrontenac CouncilbyWilma Kenny

Canadian National Championship Powerboat Races at Sydenham Lake ?

Doug Overbury of the Canadian Boating Federation attended a February meeting of the Loughborough District Parks and Recreation Committee with his association’s proposal to resume their use of Sydenham Lake for national powerboat races this summer. He said they would run their races between 10 and 4 on two days, and requested the use of areas around the boat ramp for camping and parking.

The recreation Committee felt it would be necessary to have a public meeting to gauge community support. No date has been set yet, but late April has been suggested.

Sydenham Water Works By-law

South Frontenac Council passed a lengthy by-law to formalize the policies they have developed in relation to the Sydenham water system. CAO Burns observed that this by-law would not pose any additional burden on staff or the properties in the Hamlet of Sydenham.

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Feature Article - March 1, 2007

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Feature Article - March 1, 2007

Central Frontenac Township seeks help

by Jeff Green

The unprecedented absence of two senior staff members has led Central Frontenac to seek help in the form of a consultant as the construction season looms.

John Duchene is midway through a four month contract as temporary Chief Administrative Officer, replacing Heather Fox, who is on leave.

With Public Works Manager Bill Nicol also on an indefinite leave, Duchene has approached council to allow him to “seek assistance in the way of project management”.

Duchene told the News that there are “several projects that are either underway or pending, which will require someone with the right background to oversee them. The list includes the medical centre expansion, a $1.5 million project, the Cranberry Lake bridge, a salt dome at the Olden Garage, improvements to township gravel pits under the aggregate resources act, waste site remediation, a fire hall in Mountain Grove, and road construction.

“Steve Reynolds, who was hired last year as our road patroller, has stepped forward to help, but I felt we needed to get some support in place with all that we are planning to do this year,” Duchene said.

At a special council meeting held on February 23, council gave John Duchene the authority to search out some temporary project advisory services.

Central Frontenac is also preparing to begin budget deliberations. Special budget meetings are tentatively scheduled for 5:00 pm on consecutive Mondays, March 19 and 26 (location to be announced).

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Feature Article - March 1, 2007

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Letters to the Editor

Signs of the Times

To be fair, this rant might have waited until spring, but circumstance has brought the matter to a head, and it’s a situation that’s been bothering me for a long, long time.

It’s about those signs with the moveable letters. You know the ones their rows of blocky black capitals with backwards N’s and S’s line our highways and loom over our shops and schools. Graceless and unsightly though they are, I watch for them every day because at least they are informative. And there’s the rub.

First of all, some information is more permanent than others, and for that information we should be making permanent signs. BINGO EVERY FRIDAY could be posted in a clever design with attractive font that actually serves to enhance the look of the town. So could DAILY LUNCH SPECIAL $4.99 or WE SELL SHOES. Imagine how much more interesting our villages would be if signs like these were creatively designed and hung. Think of the view!

Of course, some information is so changeable that an ugly box sign is really the only good option. So, fine, I can live with that - until the information is no longer useful. Lent is days away, so why am I still driving past signs that read HAPPY NEW YEAR and SALE ENDS DEC 24? This is one step beyond ugly. It screams that the sign owners couldn’t really care less about what information they feed us. Frankly, I’m not very interested in entering a place whose sign is weeks or months out of date.

I know, I know. It’s cold out there. And as someone who has had the unenviable job of rearranging those ugly block letters, I can sympathize with the frostbitten fingers and scraped knuckles. Still, if changing the letters causes too much hardship, just leave the sign blank. Better yet, don’t have the sign at all. Which brings me to why I am forced to write this screed in the coldest part of winter. A couple of days ago I passed Verona RONA Hardware one of our village’s most reliable sign changers, even though its signs are hung high above the store. Posted on the north sign was this message: MY BOSS TOLD ME TO CHANGE THE SIGN. SO I DID.

Inie Platenius

To Central Frontenac Council: I wish to draw to YOUR attention Hydro One's intentions for their high voltage power line. Unless we stop them they will be spraying herbicide SOON. People that suppose this is harmless have yet to examine the 50 + year NON-Growth where the line crosses my property. Nor have they listened to Dr. Cathy Vikil ("Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment") explain linkage from 2, 4-D to leukemia and lymphona cancer. If Council cares about the health of those persons (like me) living on the Wheeler - Depot Lakes- Napanee River watershed, this is the time for you to act. Let's get with it! Call Wayne Preston, Area Forestry Technician 1-877-236-4111 X1. NOTE : South Frontenac acted last October to stop them spraying along roadways. They have a committee examining herbicide use near lakefronts. Jerry Ackerman

Kwey Kwey Neighbours, On February 26, at the regular monthly meeting of the traditional Family Heads Council of the Ardoch Algonquin First Nation I was asked to write this letter concerning recent articles in the Frontenac News. This letter represents the views expressed by consensus of our Council. First of all we want to say how much we respect Ron Maguire for his honesty in the face of ridiculous criticism and his unselfish attempts to steer the Township of North Frontenac toward a responsible position regarding the Algonquin Cultural Centre development at Pine Lake . Mr. Green's article in the February 15, 2007 issue of the News really shocked members of AAFNA Council. Our Council was surprised to see that Mr. Wayne Cole, a North Frontenac councilor, was so ready for "confrontation" over an issue that Mayor Maguire has already made substantial efforts at resolving. We don't understand how Mr. Cole would undermine what Mayor Maguire had worked so hard to achieve over the last year. Mr. Cole is wrong in saying that Algonquins are "squatters".The Ottawa Valley is the homeland of the Algonquin people and has been since time immemorial.Algonquins have historically been military allies of the Crown and had a higher level of enlistment than any other group of people in the last two world wars.Algonquins have suffered the destruction of their environment and way of life as early loggers and miners pillaged the Ottawa Valley for its resources. If Mr. Cole was inclined to educate himself with real historical records he would discover that Algonquins petitioned the Crown for the protection of their homelands for over 150 years and were met only with apathy by government officials.In the face of racism, discrimination, and harassment, Algonquin people have survived.They have maintained the dream of using the land in a respectful way and in sharing the land and the prosperity it offers with those who have come here in the recent past.Mr. Cole's comment, as reported in your newspaper, is derogatory because it is founded in base ignorance. Ignorance of history is one thing; ignorance of the law is another.Mayor Maguire knows the law and is willing to respect it whether it serves his own interests or not.This is what is meant by "respecting the rule of law".Mayor Maguire is a courageous man and deserves our respect.In the Algonquin homeland the rule of law has been ignored for a very long time by both Ontario and Canada because these governments have profited by the exploitation of the Algonquin homeland.If Mr. Cole will read the Royal Proclamation of 1763, the Constitution Act of 1982, sections 25 and 35, and then ask whether Canada has acquired a legal transfer of Algonquin land to the Crown he will find that he is wrong. He talks, as quoted in your newspaper article, of being willing to lead his mob into a "confrontation", but he is misleading them by refusing to respect or even acknowledge the rule of law. Ontario and Canada have all but washed their hands of our development at Pine Lake because they know that they do not have a legal disagreement with Algonquins taking possession of their own lands.Over the past 25 years the courts of Canada have struck down the old racist policies that undermined Aboriginal peoples' rights and land tenure. What has been lacking are politicians who will express leadership in explaining this to their constituents.Lack of political leadership perpetuates ignorance and is what leads to confrontation. The Algonquin Heritage Centre will be built at Pine Lake and people will come from far and near to enjoy what it will offer.Neither Canada nor Ontario can stop it from being built because they do not have legal title to the land.This does not mean that the Ardoch Algonquin First Nation will not respect the legitimate and constructive concerns of neighbours. We have listened to our neighbours.AAFNA has hired a Biologist to conduct a thorough Environmental Assessment which will include community input.We have retained an Architect and Engineer to design the Heritage Centre so that it will be safe and accommodate environmental concerns.It has been Mayor Maguire's honest recognition of Algonquin rights that has helped move this process along in a good way.Mr. Cole has had really nothing to offer toward a positive resolution. There are those who say that the Ardoch Algonquin First Nation should be taking part in the Algonquins of Golden Lake Land Surrender if we want our rights recognised. AAFNA has rejected the present "Land Claim" as just another effort to steal land and pay off those who would sell their birthright.AAFNA has determined that there is no future in selling the land or compromising what people have suffered so long to preserve. Ignorant politicians have been bashing Algonquins for a long time claiming that it is unfair for Aboriginal people to have rights beyond those of ordinary Canadians.We have studied this issue for a long time and arrived at the conclusion that ordinary Canadians really don't have many rights.Just stop paying taxes and see if you really own your century farm or your cottage. Try to protect your land from a multi-national company that is staking your property for uranium mining.Try to protect clean water, fish or plant species. Try to protect local game from sport hunters. Ask local politicians where Ontario spends the royalties acquired from local resource extraction.In the future, Algonquin rights will be what protect our environment and everyone's interests as well as keeping revenues obtained from resource development local.The emphasis should not be on limiting Algonquin rights but in extending the rights of Canadians to insure that they can live as human beings.We would suggest that if Mr. Cole truly wants to be a "leader of the people", that he share in the courage that Mayor Maguire exhibits in facing the future instead of playing on the old fears of some folks. Written by Robert Lovelace on behalf of and approved by the Ardoch Algonquin First Nation, traditional Heads of Family Council.

Re: Pine Lake

In recent articles regarding the ongoing controversy surrounding AAFNA’s planned development at Pine Lake , it has been stated that the Pine Lake residents’ association is opposed to the development. As this situation continues to escalate, needlessly and inappropriately I might add, it is important to reiterate that all the residents of Pine Lake have ever asked for, and continue to seek, are assurances that the development will be governed by the same health and safety regulations to which we are all subject. The residents of Pine Lake have done their best to clearly articulate our concerns and engage all interested parties in meaningful dialogue.Our continued efforts in this regard have been met with silence from the mayor and a vicious letter alleging racial hatred from AAFNA. This, after we were assured AAFNA “wanted to be good neighbours” (Residents’ Association Meeting, August 2006). This is not about Native rights.To turn this, which is a community discussion, into such would be a very misleading and mendacious step. Our argument is now, and has always been, about unregulated, unsafe development in our township. Lisa Goos, Pine Lake

Dear Editor,

I amsaddened by what I saw and heardfrom the North Frontenac Council at its meeting last Thursday in regard to the Pine Lake situation.At various pointsand fromvariousseats at the table,I saw examples of ill will, ignorance, insensitivity and cowardice - all in petty doses, but all adding fuel to an already smouldering fire.

Probably the worstpart was the mayor's unnecessaryreference toan apparent complaint to police.Whoever instigated that foolishness,and whoever gives it legitimacy by repeating it, should be ashamed of themselves.

None of this isa matter of criminality. It is a matter of a failure - so far - bya lot of people with different histories and concerns tolistento each other, communicate respectfully, and problem-solve together.

I think there are alsopeopleinvolved who aretrying to resolve things in a caring way, andthey deserve recognition and support. But Iam very disappointed in council and inwhoever else is contributing to making this situation evenmore tangled and painful.

There's no question of giving up. I urge everyone involved to try again, and possiblymembers of ourcouncil could try offering humane and sensible leadership this time.

Helen Forsey

Pine Meadow undertaking enhancement projects

About 5 years ago, Pine Meadow Nursing Home in Northbrook embarked on a plan of expansion. The home is now nearly 14 years old. In the original plans, facilities like a chapel and increased storage and administrative spaces had been cut out, because of financial constraints. The Administration and Management Committee felt that the time had come to address these shortages, as well as to add a very modest number of beds to prepare for the rapidly Increasing elderly population,

Although the first 5 years of the nursing home had been very difficult financially, because of a

large mortgage burden, a $1.6 million grant in 1998 from the Ontario government eased the situation and allowed an era of financial stability to begin. By this time as well, the home had begun to bloom into an exemplary faculty, unrivalled by any In Eastern Ontario.

The time was thus opportune. The Ministry of Health had acknowledged that Eastern Ontario

needed more Long Term Care (LTC) beds, and our MPP was a cabinet minister. Plans were drawn up which would have included a physiotherapy department, a kidney dialysis unit and transitional accommodation for elderly residents who could no longer live In their own homes but did not need the full care of the nursing home. These were all Initiatives which would have greatly benefited the local population. The projected cost was estimated at $2.5 million.

While these plans had very positive verbal responses from various governmental people, including ministers, and other health and social service agencies, the end result has been disappointing. In two rounds of bed-allotments from the Ministry of Health in 2006, Pine Meadow was not granted any LTC beds, nor any financial assistance for capital Improvements.

After much discussion, the Management Committee and the Board of Land o' Lakes Community Services, which holds the license for Pine Meadow, have opted to go to Plan B. This will entail building a chapel for the spiritual needs of residents and their families and increasing the storage space for products and necessary equipment. It is estimated that the cost of such developments will be approximately $500,000, to be financed through savings, re-mortgaging, and a local fund raising drive.

As we continue to plan, we will keep the community Informed through our local media.

Ernest Lapchinski

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Feature Article - March 1, 2007

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Feature Article - March 1, 2007

NFCouncil distances itself from one of its own

by Jeff Green

North Frontenac Council did some internal soul-searching over developments at Pine Lake at their meeting in Snow Road last Thursday, February 22.

At council’s previous meeting, on February 8th, Councillor Wayne Cole had proposed that the township seek a meeting with federal and provincial officials “to resolve this challenge”.

The “challenge” referred to in Cole’s motion is the construction project being undertaken on Crown Land at the Pine Lake boat launch by the Ardoch Algonquin First Nation (AAFNA), a non-status Algonquin band.

Two things happened at the February 22nd meeting. First, township staff sought council’s support to expand the meeting with government officials to include AAFNA, township officials, the Ontario Provincial Police, and the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. Council supported this.

However, a date for the meeting has not been set, and two major players have already indicated they are not going to attend.

The township’s Chief Administrative Officer Cheryl Robson informed council that she had received an email message from Robert Walroth of the Bancroft Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) office “respectfully declining” the invitation. Walroth also wrote that AAFNA has hired a consultant to do an environmental assessment for the project. The consultant is working co-operatively with the MNR, and the process could be leading the MNR to issue a land use permit to AAFNA.

At first, AAFNA had indicated they would be willing to attend such a meeting under certain conditions, a position that was communicated to the township in a message from AAFNA on February 16th. But, in a further communication dated February 18th, AAFNA stated they would not be attending any further meetings with the township or the MNR.

Later in the February 22nd council meeting, Mayor Maguire provided some clues as to what has led AAFNA to their current stance.

He informed council that as the result of statements made by Councillor Cole that were reported in the Frontenac News on February 15, (“Rift develops over NF council’s role at Pine Lake”, Vol. 7, issue 6) AAFNA will not meet with the township or the MNR until an apology for Councillor Cole’s comments is printed in the paper.

When asked what comments he was referring to, Maguire said “I won’t repeat them.”

In the article in question, Councillor Cole was quoted as saying “These people are squatters. They are breaking the law.”

After a little more discussion, Mayor Maguire said to Councillor Cole, “You know what’s happened.”

Wayne Cole said he did not, and then Mayor Maguire said to council, “the OPP is investigating Councillor Cole’s comments as reported in the paper as a possible breach of hate crimes legislation. Council has been painted with the same brush” Mayor Maguire added, and then he asked Councillor Cole to apologise for his statements.

Councillor Cole declined to do so.

Mayor Maguire asked if anyone on council would make a motion to the effect that Councillor Cole’s comments do not reflect the position of council.

Councillor Fred Perry made the following motion: “That the comments and remarks made by Councillor Cole at the February 8th council meeting do not reflect the position of council; and that council invite all parties back to the table to resolve the challenge.”

In speaking to the motion, Wayne Cole would only say, “No comment, this is under the guidance of my lawyers now.”

The motion passed, with Councillors Lonnie Watkins and Wayne Cole entering the only dissenting votes.

OTHER NOTES FROM COUNCIL: Challenge received Central Frontenac Township Administration has put a team together for the “Relay for Life”, a cancer fundraising event that is taking place in Parham on June 1st. They have issued a challenge to the North Frontenac Township Administration to put a team together a well.

Advisory Committee rep found After a long search Debbie Kiss has come forward to represent North Frontenac to the Frontenac County Accessibility Advisory Committee.

2007 off to fast start Permits for 4 new residences and 1 commercial operation were purchased in January, for a construction value of $674,895, a fast start for the year. In January 2006, the total value was $154,160.

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