Story sparks lengthy debate at NF Council

Craig Bakay | Jul 26, 2017

Arguably the biggest block of North Frontenac Council’s debate time at last Friday’s regular meeting in Ompah centred on the Frontenac News story two weeks ago in which Mayor Ron Higgins discussed his thoughts and plans for community development.

The Mayor laid out a futuristic vision that he’s been working on involving aquaculture, hydroponics and electricity generation that certainly would be unique in rural Ontario municipalities if nothing else.
But, as sometimes happens, it would appear his Council isn’t entirely on-board with the concept as of yet.
“The mayor can do independent research but this was not approved by Council,” said Coun. John Inglis, starting things off.
“I’m going through research to see if it is feasible,” Higgins said.
“I find that arrogant and disrespectful of everyone on this Council,” said Coun, Vernon Hermer. “You sanctioned me for discussing (Council business) with one resident.
“Here you are presenting inaccurate information with the world.”
“We told you very carefully we did not approve,” said Coun. Denis Bedard. “I’ve had callers ask me if we’re remaking The Nutty Professor or if we’re on drugs.”
“When I see a picture of the Mayor with the chain of office (on a story) it makes it look like we endorse it,” said Coun. Gerry Martin.
After some more back and forth discussion, Higgins offered to write a letter to the editor of the paper clarifying his, and Council’s, position.
“I will clarify that this was my initiative, not Council’s,” he said.

Fire Rosters
In a report to Council, Fire Chief Eric Korhonen acknowledged that there are some concerns with the current roster of firefighters in terms of training and attendance but said “the fire roster continues to remain stable” and he has plans to address any deficiencies.
“I appreciate the roster has been deficient for five years,” he said. “I have been chief for a year and a half.
“We are attempting to make training and recruitment priorities but I’m not going to go all heavy handed on volunteers.
“I hope to have it all addressed by Dec. 31, 2017.”
He said they should be reviewing the makeup of the department.
“Currently, medical response is not a problem and that makes up about 85 per cent of our calls,” he said. “Some members don’t want to carry hose and they’re content to be first responders at accidents and that’s much of our business.”
“The Chief and the Personnel & Audit Committee are dealing with it and I’m happy to shut up about it,” said Coun. John Inglis.
“If you want to support the fire department then get on board and don’t go on a witch hunt,” said Dep. Mayor Fred Perry.

Bylaws
Council passed bylaws restricting the use of flying lanterns and changing fees and charges and changes to its municipal waste and recyclables bylaw.