SHELBURNE SUMMER PARADE IN JEOPARDY.
Shelburne Town Council’s first meeting of the new year held many controversial issues and high notes. Of great concern is the problematic possibility that Shelburne’s coveted and well loved summer parade held during what was once called Fiddle Fest, now referred to as Shelburne Heritage Music Festival, may NOT HAPPEN. This annual summer parade traditionally run by the Kinsmen, a charitable organization known for working hard behind the scenes of many events, is sadly lacking membership and without the support of local members, the work needed to provide the parade that is signature to Shelburne’s fabric of unique tradition and identity, just can’t be accomplished. For more information about the Kinsmen visit their website as they are actively seeking help from the public to keep the parade tradition alive.
Also covered in this meeting: Reports from Shelburne Town Planner, Steve, Sewer Issues Created Decades Ago Bringing By-Law And Possible New Law Issues To Light, Home Owners Complaint Regarding Neighbour’s On Deck Hot Tub Gazebo & Drainage Issues, Shelburne Police in Support Of Special Olympics & Polar Plunge Announced To Take Place During Shelburrr Fest. See exclusive video interview with Shelburne Mayor, Ken Bennington,
Meeting Held December 18 2017, last meeting of the year. As video is not allowed during Council meetings, audio recordings are featured below covering the following topics. This meeting lasted almost three hours! Click here for Audio.
Ontario Federation of Agriculture Share Concerns For Impact High Speed Rail May Have On Land
Representatives from OFA( Ontario Federation Of Agriculture, Wellington, Waterloo, and Dufferin) presented themselves to Shelburne Town Council asking Shelburne Town Council to consider their concerns when making decisions in the future regarding land use and sale for development. It’s worth a listen if you are a farmer, a person living in the area or in Dufferin County, and especially interesting when imagining the issue of farming and food supply can affect the general public greatly. ” We are the biggest stewards of the land and we leave it better than we found it. We’re a significant employer in the County. We have concerns over high speed rail that would greatly impact the land, ” commented OFA Member, Gord Grant.
LOCAL BUILDERS AND SEWER SET BACKS
Two local builders continued to express their concerns and frustrations in a second visit to Council over the sewer issues surrounding the semi detached they purchased on 121 Marion Street. The builders would like to re-build a structure on that property but are caught up in serious legislative issues that go as far back as the 1970’s when sewers and plumbing were subject to different laws and regulations than today’s builders face. In addition to that, their property’s sewer system seems to run under their neighbours property and there is some legal question as to who should pay to re-route the sewer line, (town or Builder or homeowner) , if the sewer line can be relocated, and the situation becomes even more complicated as it involves a a neighbour’s sewer line. Shelburne is not the only community faced with these legal problems that were unknowingly created in the passed and today’s Council is left with the burden of coming up with a legal and amicable solution that will set a precedence for future builders. More will be considered and discovered in January 2018 when local builders return to council looking for answers.
ARSENIC LEVEL STANDARDS IN SHELBURNE NOT CONCERNING
Shelburne Engineer, Steve Burnett explained to Council that the Local Health Unit has recently updated standards surrounding the level of naturally occurring arsenic levels that are acceptable in water. Burnett explained that Shelburne’s Well #3, one of the older wells looked at which provides only 25% of Shelburne’s water even on the hottest day of the year, will definitely meet updated standards and there is absolutely nothing for Shelburnites to worry about. Those with questions or concerns can contact their local Health Unit who are more than happy to explain the situation and will stress there is no health issue or warning to issue, Carol Sweeney, acting CAO was very clear on.
Other Highlights:
*Shelburne’s “Report Card” Not Very Good According to the Asset Management Plan. The information provided by the Asset Management Plan is according to Town Treasurer, Carey Holmes, is useful but sometimes based on outdated information. Designed to help council make decisions, the report card painted many areas of improvement and revealed Shelburne makes the grade on road repair for the most part. More information this can be found on the Town of Shelburne Website.
*Shelburne Councillors took the opportunity to sign up for established committees or resign their seat in 2018.
*Further consideration will be needed regarding new ATV By-Laws before they are able to become law. Many concerns have been brought fourth to Shelburne Police Services regarding the use of ATV’s on the streets of Shelburne while enroute to ATV paths. Concerns range from noise, inability to police effectively, and the use of children driving the ATV’s. Updates on the situation to come in the new year.
Meeting held December 4, 2017.
OPP Costing Discussion At Shelburne Town Council Meeting Held December 4, 2017. Note You may have to turn volume up on your device. Recording One begins with Nigel Bellchamber seated (L) and his account of the progress being made thus far in the search for a replacement CAO(Chief Administrative Officer) following the retirement of former CAO, John Telfer. Bellchamber reported there were over 30 candidates who applied for the CAO position, reviewed the process involved in filling the position and prepared Council for the possible dramatic pay increase of hiring a CAO with Telfer’s vast experience, qualifications and at a similar level in their career.
The meeting then picks up with a discussion concerning the Motion brought fourth by Councillor Wade Mills during the last Council held on November 27, 2017 meeting suggesting Council must absolutely know all the facts surrounding OPP Costing, a serious matter that has been avoided by Council in the past. While many Councillors expressed complete satisfaction with Shelburne Police Services and will push for a continued service in the Town Of Shelburne, Councillors would rather have absolute confidence in their decision making ability and can now claim, having moved the motion on OPP Costing, that they will be provided with all the numbers and that translates to a possible savings for Shelburnites in the future when compared with the costing of other possible avenues such as renovating Shelburne Town Hall where Police Services are located at present, or perhaps the purchasing of a new building entirely or even looking at Fire And Police sharing a facility. Other avenues presented to Council were very expensive options in the 5 million dollar range, relevant to the task at hand, but still a concern for Councillors with constituents in mind.
Click here for video of Mayor Bennington providing an overview of OPP Costing Discussion.
IN OTHER HIGHLIGHTS: Patti Geberdt Hossie, Project Manager, Deputy Registrar, for the Town Of Shelburne, was presented with a wonderful award by Shelburne Mayor Ken Bennington, acknowledging her 15 years of dedicated service to the Town Of Shelburne.
Former Treasurer and Acting CAO Carol Sweeney was also presented with a very special award by Mayor Ken Bennington, acknowledging 25 years of dedicated service to the Town Of Shelburne. For more information, visit The Town Of Shelburne Website.
Get The Inside Scoop On Shelburne Town Council Meeting Held November 27, 2017. Highlights over the 2nd Draft of 2018 Budget, see the budget presentation, (coming soon) and both, Town Councillor Wade Mills and Mayor Bennington in exclusive video interviews. Get ready for the Town of Shelburne Town Council meeting to be held December 4, 2017 where more progress will be made towards Police Costing, the controversial issue which weighs costs of Shelburne having a town Police Service, the cost of renovating Town Hall to accommodate Police Services over the cost of OPP and their ability to service Shelburne. Click images below for video interviews.
Get the inside scoop from Shelburne Mayor Ken Bennington in this exclusive video interview and get highlights on issues covered during the Shelburne Town Council Meeting, Monday, November 13, 2017.
Get a sample of the first draft of the proposed budget. If you want to know more, attend the meeting held on Monday, November 20, 2017 at 5 p.m. in Council Chambers and find out more about how budget decisions are made before the final budget presentation to the public on November 27th at 7p.m. held in Grace Tipling Hall.
Maureen Froese, Contract Development Engineer provided Council with overview regarding design criteria exemptions for Hyland Village.
Town Council Meeting Overview & exclusive video interview with Shelburne Mayor Ken Bennington.
TOP STORY
A water Main Break couldn’t have come at a worse time as Shelburne is undergoing repairs and Maintenance to its water tower. The break, in front of Shelburne Town Hall occurred overnight on October 30th due to failing pipe integrity which can be an infrastructure repair caused by age. Town Of Shelburne repair crews worked tirelessly through the night to ensure water service renewed by the very next day. Click here or on image for Youtube video interview.
Shelburne Mayor, Ken Bennington, in answer to The Shelburne Freelancer during question period provided a response to the question of Shelburnites practicing businesses without a licence or permit, perhaps unaware they are not following business bylaws and regulations. In light of recent Feral Cat Rescues’ ordeal and eventual closure due to running a business in a residential neighbourhood not allocated for business purposes, Bennington, responded,” We are not engaging in a witch hunt mentality. We will pursue investigations about unlawful business practices based on a complaint issued. People need to know they should have a business licence, a business permit and must be located in a business designated area.”
Surprising to some home businesses is the idea that having a permit and a licence from a previous town or location, might not be legal once the business is relocated to Shelburne and it’s recommended that home based businesses stop in to Shelburn Town Hall to check to see if their business is complying with licences, permits and bylaws for the Town of Shelburne. ” We in Shelburne encourage entrepreneurial spirit, ” commented Bennington.
Newest Council member, Steven Anderson’s proposed initiative for an annual Achievement Awards for Newcomer’s at Elementary Schools was unanimously approved by Council. The award to be named for passed Town Councillor Tom Egan still has a few particular details to work out and Council will update at that time.
During what can only be described as a heated and passionate exchange, a local builder attempted to explain why and how suddenly 19 apartments could be available at his project when only 18 were initially presented to Shelburne Town Planner, Steve Wever. Having been with Shelburne for ten years, Wever stands by his assessment of the situation and was backed by Council who did not approve a parking spot for a 19th apartment at the 159 Main Street W. location. Although Wever acknowledges the project has benefited Shelburne in keeping with the Town of Shelburne’s plan for growth, the matter is simply logistical. Once a builder presents a plan, permits are applied for, and granted based on the plans, changed require new permits, new considerations for electrical planning, water, sewer, parking, etc. The process is quite engaging and on occasion, a builder may find himself in the position of altering plans which should be brought fourth to Council immediately and Council has the ability to accept of deny any changes based on Wever’s assessment. Upon discovery of a 19th apartment, it was realized that the space had been finished in the same way as the previously finished apartments. The builder, Paulo Pambianchi stated that he is fine to leave the finished space a a storage space instead of outfitting it as a perfect single dwelling, which is exactly what council agreed he should do. Council and Mayor Bennington expressed their frustration and disappointment with Builders in the past attempting to take advantage of the Town of Shelburne. (Lto Right) Paulo Pambianchi sits beside Shelburne Town Planner, Stever Wever as the two set fourth both accounts of the situation to Shelburne Councillors. Watch Bennington’s comments on exclusive video interview.
The Town Of Shelburne also is very proud of the Home Town Hero Banners and encouraged Shelburnites to walk Main Street and see the wide array of our very own Veteran Home Town Heroes.
Town Planner Steve Wever presented his report of the request made by residents locate at 310 Main St. requesting the removal of an on street parking spot in front of their home as they plan to run a Chiropractic business from their home and will require front street access to clients. The request was carried due to the compliance with bylaws and the home is located in an area zoned for business. The residents will be required to pay $2,500 to the Town in lieu of the Town’s lack of one parking spot and will at their own expense be required to pay for all work done to remove the spot in addition to using Town of Shelburne workers to complete their project.
Town Council Meeting Overview October 16, 2017
Top Story
Shelburne Welcomes It’s Newest Town Councillor, Steven Anderson in an official Swearing In Ceremony taking place Monday, October 16, 2017 at Shelburne Town Town Hall before the Town Council met. Anderson brings with him a vast expertise, experience, and knowledge that Shelburnites will greatly benefit from, combined with a positive outlook and keen interest in Shelburne’s integrity, future, and sustainability. While pledging the oath surrounded by family and friends, Anderson was welcomed by all present Town Staff, Councillors, Mayor Bennington, Deputy Mayor Geoff Dunlop, and Town Clerk, Jennifer Willoughby.
Click image for video coverage of Official Swearing In Ceremony & Exclusive Video interview.
In Other News: Shelburne Faces Steep Costs Following A Decision To Remove Shelburne Water Treatment Sludge In a Clean Up That Hasn’t Been Done Since The 80’s!
During the summer of 2017, Shelburnites were met with an awful and unbarable stench which was permeating from the Shelburne Water Treatment Plant. The problem arose as sludge that has been accumulating since the 80’s finally could be ignored no longer. An expensive problem, Council has decided to go ahead with the process even though the process was revealed to be almost five times more expensive that the original quote. ” I don’t want another summer to pass like this one did!” commented Mayor Bennington receiving assurances from Town Engineer, Steven Burnett and Scott Craggs of Ontario Clean Water Agency (O.C.W.A)
Craggs assures Council that fall is the best time of year to get the issue started as the ponds are accessible and not full of water at present. Both Burnett and Craggs also assured Council that Shelburne’s water plant is working at top standards. Once the process of removing sludge begins, and it’s a smelly business, the process could last four weeks. Cooler temperatures in the fall are likely best to be proceeding with the process and should add to lessen the discomfort to Shelburnites. More importantly, as Mayor Ken Bennington pointed out, this issue will not need to be dealt with again until the very far away future. Councillor Wade Mills asked about the Town of Shelburne having to incur the cost all in one shot and if there was a way to somehow budget, but there just wasn’t a feasible alternative.
(Above: LtoR)Town Engineer, Steven Burnett and Scott Craggs of Ontario Clean Water Agency (O.C.W.A)
Shelburne’s Historical Society representatives (Lto R) Sharron Peet and Laurita Townsend, received the green light from Council to begin naming Shelburne’s lane ways and placing Street lane way posts indicating the names. This will greatly add to the charm of Shelburne as William Jelly Lane way was the first to receive it’s sign post and is located joining First ST. and Main Street meeting at the historical William Jelly House.
Shelburne’s Water Tower Undergoes Repairs!
http://www.townofshelburne.on.ca/…/water-tower-facility-rep…
Photo generously provided by Town Of Shelburne.
Overview & Highlights Of Shelburne Town council Meeting September 25, 2017.
Feral Cat Rescue Will Meet Cease And Desist Order Deadline of October 10, 2017.
This Feral Cat Rescue service provided by Sharon Morden, widely valued by cat lover’s was also greatly appreciated by those who did not want stray cats around. A situation arose once a neighbour complained of odour and brought the complaint to Council who were obligated by law to act. Upon investigation, it was discovered the business had been basically and unknowingly, operating for years illegally and a Cease & Desist Order was set in place as protocol demands. The outcome of any business operating in a non- business designated area would have been met with the same fate, in fact other businesses have been forced to relocate for that reason in the past. Originally, Morden herself has been on record explaining how her volunteering with feral cat rescuing, while owning a Cake Baking company, simply snowballed due to ever growing demand into providing a safe haven for rescues, to becoming Feral Cat Rescue. Morden is a well loved and widely respected fixture and staple in the community and is the happy recipient of much well deserved and earned community support.
As a result, tensions among Shelburnites ran high in Council Chambers in support of The Feral Cat Rescue, and an overwhelmed Morden became flooded with attempts to save cats, trying to find a new location and while all of Council did not want to see the operation close, bound by bylaws and orders they could only hope Morden would be able to find a relocation solution in time. Morden has secured a portable that has the possibility of being placed on a property in Melancthon. Although a promising solution, not a guarantee.
Recently Darren White, Mayor of Melancthon provided this comment explaining the complicated process, “The next steps are that the landowner must apply for a rezoning on her property to allow the FCR to set up. This process will involve receiving a complete application, public notice, a public meeting and then a decision by council. Following that, there is an appeal period during which anyone can appeal the decision to the OMB. Council will adjudicate the application fairly and based on its merits.”
While valiant, Morden faced an impossible time crunch when considering the proposed property must undergo the By-law amendment process of becoming rezoned for the Feral Cat Business, and although Morden had raised funds through a GOFundMe Campaign, along with completing a business plan to best of her ability, her exhausting attempts fell short. On a motion raised by Councillor Dan Sample where it was suggested the Cease and Desist Order could be extended until Morden gets word from Melancthon regarding the amended bylaw for rezoning, Councillors Randy Chambers, Deputy Mayor Geoff Dunlop, Mayor Ken Bennington, and Councillor Wade Mills voted against Councillor’s Dan Sample and Councillor Walter Benotto. The motion was denied. In actual fact, it’s unclear if Council has the legal authority to alter a Cease and Desist Order once it’s been released becoming a By-law Officer and legal situation, which was also a consideration as Shelburne Town Councillors absolutely must uphold laws and bylaws in place.
At this point Town Council will now be looking for Cat Control Services, local rescues will have no where to go in Shelburne, and a local woman, Sharon Morden, must yet again scramble to save the lives of those felines she cares for, finding homes, temporary homes, shelters. The situation is not what anyone wanted, including Councillors and an emotionally charged situation that may yet see an amicable end result in time. If you can help Feral Cat Rescue contact Sharon Morden today at 519- 278- 0707. Click image below for exclusive video interviews of Councillor Dan Sample, Councillor Wade Mills and Mayor Ken Bennington.
Overview Of Shelburne Town Council Meeting Held September 11, 2017
It was all hands on deck this Council meeting. Covering a variety of issues, Council first heard report from Shelburne Non-Profit Housing Board(Fiddleville). A copy of the agenda and minutes are available at The Town Of Shelburne’s website. Shelburne Town Planner, Steve Wever was kept very busy reporting on his assessment of yet more properties applying to sever their land for sale. The most recent request of 330 Main St. East, involves Consent Application for Minor Variance A17/04.
A worrying trend that upset local residents so much, they wrote a letter to Council acknowledging their disapproval. RobertA. Osborne, Fern Oborne, Don Hosken, Vivian Hosken, Jim Cheyne, Randy Chayne, Bruce Galbraith, Lois Galbraith, Bob Giles, Donna Giles, Ronna Hasken, and Jean Cheyne. Raising concerns over snow removal and placement, wanting to maintain Shelburne’s attractiveness to buyers for their sizable back yards, and the wish for Shelburne to remain largely single dwelling family homes. Their concern that a home the size of a “postage stamp” is not necessary citing there is a lot size for a reason. Below, as part of Wever’s presentation, he provided images of previously and similar severed lots, the proposal for consent, the building envelope, and the similar applications which had met concerns and standards. Having met the requirements based on Wever’s information, Council carried the motion.
The second area of concern involving Shelburne Town Planner Steve Wever came as a re-zoning request for 440 Main St. West. This would involve an amendment to bylaw #38-2207. The request submitted by Sherri Scarlett is requesting the re-zoning to legalize a non-conforming Home Occupation as a Personal Services (Hair Salon) within the attached garage of the existing single detached dwelling. Scarlett, a non-resident to Shelburne, owns the home and wishes to work from the dwelling she rents. Concerned resident, approached Council with regards to water safety as the dwelling utilizing a spetic system may interfere with quality of those on well water in near proximity. After considering the situation, Council carried the motion that more information was required before going ahead with the request citing, septic, Ministry of Transportation, and business parking availability concerns. Below is the Property in Question, and a list of Criteria for home Occupation to be still considered.
In an unprecedented move, Mayor Ken Bennington brought his grave concern over Council decisions and the need to follow procedure when considering last minute agenda items being brought forth. Bennington reminded Council there is a need to follow procedures allowing the full voice of council to participate. His request did not fall on deaf ears as Council members unanimously agreed. Moving forward, all will be considered in decision making and when members are absent, Council will agree to wait until members are present or have had the chance to weigh in.
Mayor Bennington also approached Council on behalf of the Jr. Schooners Pee Wee Softball Team suggesting they should receive the Community Excellence Award boasting that the team have come a long way, many grown men could hit a ball served up the team’s pitcher and they deserve the support from their community having earned it.
Council also received a letter from Sylvia Jones dated August 10, 2017 regarding improved conditions for vehicular traffic at the intersection of Highway 89 and 124 that Mayor Bennington felt strongly about and Council agreed to help the letter get attention by reaching out to all of Dufferin County.
Recently, Alex Sher of The Shelburne Freelancer reached out to the Ministry of Transportation regarding what seemed to be hand sitting on the decision to install an advanced green light at the Highway 10-89 and 189 intersection. After contacting the Mininster of Transportation’s office, Communications Co ordinator for the Ministry of Transportation, West Region, provided the following response. “The ministry is aware of the Shelburne community’s concern with the intersection of Highway 10/89 and Dufferin Road 124. Minister Del Duca met with a delegation from Shelburne at the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) conference in Ottawa in August. There, the Shelburne delegation raised their request for a Highway 10/89 bypass of the community, as well as for an advance green phase at the Highway 10/89 and Dufferin Road 124 intersection. Ministry staff have reviewed this intersection several times, most recently in January 2017, to determine whether safety or operational improvements, including advanced left turn phasing, are required. Our assessment took traffic volumes, roadway geometry, collision history, and overall traffic operations into consideration. The results did not indicate the need for improvements at that time. However, following discussion with the Shelburne delegation at the AMO conference, the ministry agreed to conduct another assessment of the intersection in warmer months when traffic volumes may be higher. This assessment will take place in summer 2018. Regarding a bypass, in 2008 the ministry and Shelburne partnered to complete a traffic operations study for Highways 10 and 89. The findings indicated that future traffic volumes will exceed the capacity of the east-west portion of Highway 10/89. At the AMO conference, the ministry let the Shelburne delegation know that we are working on a long-term, comprehensive and multi-modal transportation plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe area, which includes Dufferin County and Highway 10/89. This study, expected to be done by early 2019, will help us determine future planning priorities ” Liane Fisher Bloxam, Communications Coordinator, Ministry of Transportation – West Region. For more information call, 519-873-4186 or email your concerns to liane.fisher@ontario.ca
Meeting of August 28, 2017
In attendance, Acting CAO, Carol Sweeney, Treasurer, Carey Holmes, Town Clerk Jennifer Willoughby, Deputy Mayor Geoff Dunlop, Councillors Randy Chambers, Walter Benotto, Wade Mills. Absent, Councillor Dan Sample and Mayor Ken Bennington.
The highlights:
The property owners of 138 Wellington Street have been given the go ahead from Council to use their accessory dwelling as a rental property. Over the years, a garage had turned into a living space and with repeated change of ownership in the past, the Town acted, providing a violation of bylaws regarding converting garage’s into rental living spaces. Steve Wever, Town Planner brought the case forward to Council following the current owner’s application to use this space as a rental property and the Town agreed to pass it based on the planner’s explanation this is an individual case where by outdated bylaws are catching up with such requests form home owners and while each case will be looked at separately by the Town, others should not hope to use this particular case as a precedent necessarily. This particular location, complete with separate water, hydro, sewer, managed to fall into a unique category where it will undoubtedly comply with future bylaws once they become current.
During Question Period: The inability to pass traffic trying to turn left at Owen Sound Street infuriating drivers. A Seemingly Simple Situation Gets Complicated.
A gentleman very passionate about the traffic blockage entering Shelburne from the West end onto Shelburne’s Main Street, found at the lights when turning left own Owen Sound Street resulting in drivers attempting to drive through Shelburne cannot carry on forward due to the Handicapped parking spot at the intersection,not allowing drivers to pass those waiting to turn left brought the matter to Council’s attention. The Gentleman was dumbfounded by Council’s response as to why this problem addressed in the spring has not been resolved. The Town’s plan to move the parking spot back a spot allowing drivers the ability to pass cars waiting to turn left onto Owen Sound are in the works as a Bylaw amendment has already been sent to the courts. Even once returned from the courts, there are more considerations as the province has been creating a new template for handicapped parking symbol and until it is provided to the Town of Shelburne, enabling the parking stamp to be painted on the new handicapped parking spot, the Town is legally not allowed to move the spot. It’s not a matter of using the old stamp in the new spot as that action would be seen as non-compliant. Another example of Provincial Government holding up progress. Meanwhile, drivers who are unaware of the Handicapped Parking spot are actually driving on it and passed drivers who are waiting turn left onto Owen sound. The problem then becomes heightened by Transports waiting to turn left onto Owen Sound occupying the length of two parking spots. More Updates On The Situation Will Follow!
The Shelburne Freelancer addressed Council on the Feral Cat Rescue ongoing situation after being approached by the public asking , “Just what has Council done for Sharon Morden of Feral Rescue?” Understanding that it is not Council’s Duty to take a business by the hand and walk it through options, on many occasions Council and the Mayor have stated they were helping yet the public has yet to “see” the help in a tangible manner of speaking. With the help of Shelburne Town Council’s recommendation, Morden was able to access the Orangeville & Area Small Business Enterprise Centre where Morden says she received information on how to complete her business plan. Unable to actually make business plans for people, the Orangeville & Area Small Business Enterprise Centre are a valuable resource for small businesses to tap into. Morden is scheduled to appear before council in September where Council stated they will further comment at that time with regards to tangible physical commitments they are willing to or not able to make. Meanwhile Morden’s unstoppable spirit has pushed forward with a GofundMe site to help build resources in the hopes of purchasing a portable to be set on land within close proximity to Shelburne. The Shelburne Freelancer did ask, ” What would happen in the case of Morden taking down her sign and simply becoming a the proud owner of many cats? There are no bylaws at present regarding the number of cats a person can have in her house, correct.She could stay where she is and not have to relocate?” Deputy Mayor Dunlop conceded that is correct however Councillor Benotta added that while that might be case, the original complaint was smell of the yard and there may be bylaw that covers that issue. Alex Sher, The Shelburne Freelancer added, ” But that’s a pretty weak concern. What if my neighbour started a lilac garden and I was deathly allergic?” Agreeably a difficult legal legal argument and not the end of the complicated situation. There will be more updates to follow.
Delegations: Gord Gallaugher of Community Foundation For Dufferin County presented his hopeful request for funds and moral support during his start up of the Charity organization designed to make donations a simple easy and effective way to support a community. One example of the service provided expressed the idea of a person who wanted to make a donation with the provisional understanding that a certain sum be donated to a charity over the course of a ten year period, The Community Foundation for Dufferin County might be the way to go. Council decided to provide moral support and tabled the financial support aspect to be re-examined following the 2018 Budget. Find out more: https://mono.civicweb.net/document/38024
Mr. Costello of Fiddle Heads Pub approached Council requesting the extended use of his Patio until the end of October, 2017 as the passed summer’s rainy season didn’t allow for very much use of the patio. Costello was granted the request with the understanding on a moment’s notice, would remove the structure upon the request of the Town should there be even the slightest dusting of snow that would impede the Town’s ability to prepare the sidewalk in winter conditions. For those concerned about Fiddle Heads Pub being sold, “We’re not selling. We’re very happy here. Don’t worry, Fiddle Heads is here to stay, “commented Costello.
Regular Agenda: Carol Maitland of Shelburne’s Economic Development Center And Marketing Coordinator presented to Council a request to file two grant applications, A Community Improvement Program (CIP) and Rural Economic Development (RED). Following an interesting and engaging presentation by Maitland revealing how great an updated Town Of Shelburne Website would be and listing a slew of absolute pluses, Council passed Maitland’s request to apply for the grants. With Maitland’s suggestions all communities in Shelburne can become more interactive with the Town via website improvements, and becoming more engaged with Town of Shelburne’s activity. Also more updates will follow should the applications be accepted.
Regarding Fire Board Member Replacement Of Recently Passed, Dearly Missed, Town Councillor,Tom Egan to be filled by Town Councillor, Walter Benotto.
Editorial: Ministry of Transportation’s Hand Sitting Could Cost Lives In Dangerous Intersection In Shelburne, ON
In other Highlights, Councillor Walter Benotto and Deputy Mayor Geoff Dunlop provided information regarding their Ministry of Transportation( MTO) delegation at the Association of Municipalities of Ontario Conference. Benotto and Dunlop’s requests for a an advanced green light system to be set in place at the intersection of Highway 10-89 and Highway 124( Tim Hortons and John’s No Frills) fell on deaf ears as the MTO stated they must do their own assessment and have their own warrants of the traffic situation in Shelburne. This comes on the heels of Shelburne Representatives, Dunlop and Benotto stated Shelburne is so desperate for safety, they offered the Town of Shelburne would foot the entire bill and still nothing could dis-way MTO from stating first, they would do their own driving tests, but when will it happen? Pointing out that Primrose has an advanced green light system in place and that traffic carries on to Shelburne coupled with the fact that Shelburne’s Town Engineer, Stephen Burnett’s numbers, reveal Shelburne has more than reached the numbers set by MTO standards that would easily qualify Shelburne for an advanced green lighting system, did’t spark a response. Unrelenting, the MTO is completely prepared to put safety on the back burner to suit their own incomprehensible reasons for denial. Also discussed was the very important request for a bypass and for similar reasons, Dunlop and Benotto were met with the same frustrating and lackadaisical response, in this reporter’s opinion, as they are prepared to wait until 2019 providing MTO with time to lump Shelburne into a study involving Greater Area Toronto. Why is that? Perhaps a staff member Googled Shelburne and it came up Shelburne, Toronto, Ontario! In the event the MTO has other plans for that intersection in the future, and they are waiting for studies to be returned, lives at stake now are LIVES AT STAKE NOW!
This reporter happily issues a challenge to MTO regarding their driving test. Don’t just drive straight through Shelburne or simply take a left from Highway 10-89 to Highway 124 coming in from Orangeville. For argument sake, get out of your car, bring a child with you for a bike ride and attempt crossing the road in any direction on a Friday from 2:30 -4 pm. Then just to make things exciting, try leaving, taking a left from from Highway 10-89 onto 124! Please drive a regular vehicle. Better yet, I can lend you my Elantra, nothing fancy, but typical height.
And Lastly, Shame on MTO for having the power to help alleviate Shelburne’s safety concerns and choosing to allow our community to continue to tempt fate with our lives and the safety of our community at our frightening intersection and frightening by your infliction by your inaction! Just for your information, when a person is lying dead at that intersection, it won’t matter whether they are Conservative or Liberal, they won’t be voting in their future! Put politics aside and DO YOUR JOBS! IT’S THE RIGHT THING TO DO!”, Alex Sher, The Shelburne Freelancer. MORE TO FOLLOW.
If you would like to ask MPP Steven DelDuca, Minister of Transportation Questions, email, minister.mto@ontario.ca
Click link below for Nomination Application:
http://www.townofshelburne.on.ca/uploads/pdfs/nomination-form-599dcc3c7d743.pdf
Click link below for Declaration of Qualifications:
http://www.townofshelburne.on.ca/uploads/pdfs/declaration-599dcc5549123.pdf
Town of Shelburne Contract Development Engineer Jack Tupling Retires!
Town Of Shelburne Contract Development Engineer, Jack Tupling retires. Coming out of retirement just a few years ago, Jack Tupling took on the contract job at the Town Of Shelburne as Contract Development Engineer. Tupling has enjoyed his work but is more than ready to retire. “After I retired the first time, I was thinking about perhaps looking into contract work and this opportunity came up and I’ve had the pleasure of working with a great bunch of people. It’s really been an excellent experience, alot of fun and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it but now I am ready to retire, ” commented Tupling.
Shelburne Town Council To Fill Seat Left By Recently Passed Highly Respected Long Time Town Councillor, Tom Egan. Big Shoes To Fill For The Likely Candidate.
An empty seat in Shelburne’s Council Chambers leaves very big shoes to fill for the candidate who will sit where beloved Town Councillor, Tom Egan once sat. Council has decided to fill the seat by appointment through a ‘Call for Nominees.’
As 2018 is an election year the position will run until the end the term which is November 30, 2018.
Qualifications for the position are clearly stated in the Municipal Elections Act of 1996.
Nominees must be 18 years of age or older, a Canadian Citizen, a resident of the Town Of Shelburne, or an owner or tenant of land in the Town or the spouse of such an owner or tenant and must not be prohibited from voting, under any other Act or disqualified from holding municipal office. Nominees must complete a Council Vacancy Application Form and a Declaration of Qualification through the Clerk’s Office. Nominations will be accepted by Clerks Office during regular business hours until Thursday, September 14, 2017 at 2 p.m.
Candidates may also submit to the Clerk, a personal statement of qualification for consideration of Council. Personal statements must be typewritten in a 12-point font on letter size paper (81/2 X11), shall not exceed two (2) pages in length and will include the Candidate’s name and address. Statements that do not meet these requirements shall not be included in any Council meeting agenda, or provided to Council by Clerk.
Certified registered Candidates will be afforded the opportunity to address Council for a period of not more than ten (10) minutes and will be asked questions by Council in an open Public Meeting to be held Monday, October 2, 2017 at 7p.m. inn Council Chambers at Town Hall. For further information or to complete a Council Vacancy Application Form and a Declaration of Qualification, please contact:
Jennifer Willoughby, Clerk
203 Main St. East, Shelburne, Ontario.
(519) 925-2600 Ext. 223
GOOD THINGS HAPPEN SHARING SHELBURNE WITH THE WORLD!
Shelburne’s Chief Administrative Officer, John Telfer leaves behind big shoes to fill following his retirement after 14 years of long trusted and dedicated service to the Town Of Shelburne. In addition to Telfer’s professionalism, respect, wisdom and decorum, his staff and Council express a sincere sense of loss for his upcoming absence and wish him the very best his retirement future will undoubtedly offer. Click image below for heartwarming video.
Staff At The Town Of Shelburne Take On New Roles! Congratulations!
Former Town Of Shelburne Treasurer, Carol Sweeney will step into the interim position of Chief Administrative Office as former CAO, John Telfer retires August 2017. Former Deputy Treasurer, Carey Holmes will enjoy her new role as Treasurer and Former Deputy Clerk, Jennifer Willoughby is now Shelburne’s Clerk. Congratulations to all in their new positions serving the Town Of Shelburne! (LtoR) Town of Shelburne Treasurer, Carey Holmes, Shelburne’s soon to be officially retired, Chief Administrative Officer, John Telfer, Interim CAO, Carol Sweeney, and Shelburne’s New Town Clerk, Jennifer Willoughby.
Shelburne Chief Administrative Officer Retires After 14 Years of Dedicated Service To The Town Of Shelburne.
IN CONVERSATION with Shelburne CAO, John Telfer, Retiring after 14 years of dedicated service to the Town of Shelburne. Get to know the man, the public servant, and find out what he really thinks about the people he works with. Click on the image above for exclusive video interview.
Feral Cat Rescue To Return To Council In September 2017
Originally functioning as a home based business, Shelburne Feral Cat Rescue, was discovered to be running what can only be classified as a business in a residential area. The discovery came on the heels of a neighbour’s complaint of odour and since that time, Shelburne Town Council and Sharon Moden, owner and operator, have been working together to try and solve the complicated issue of how to keep Feral Cat Rescue in business. At Council meeting, upon request of Council, Morden presented facts and a business plan to the tune of $60,000 a year in suggested business operation running costs, which provided Council with an idea of how much Morden has sacrificed in free services along with the many volunteers who support her. Several ideas to generate income floated on the floor such as Cat Licences, Return Fees, (cost involved with picking reclaiming lost cats) and the possibility of looking into outside companies who may want to bid on the animal rescue situation Shelburne faces, possibly joining forces with Morden to include felines. Morden has been requested to return to Council in September when members will have had additional time to look at various types of funding, and sustainable business strategies to both keep Morden in business and deal with Shelburne’s feral Cat situation. It would appear that the animal control situation had come to a head in Shelburne and any way the situation gets sliced, the Town has resolved it must come up with a solution, and that solution will likely cost money.
Should ATV’rs Be Allowed To Drive On Shelburne Streets To Trails? See what Shelburne Mayor Has To Say In The Exclusive Video Interview. Click image.
With a highly congested traffic situation in the Town of Shelburne, would an amended Bylaw in favour of ATV enthusiasts using the streets of Shelburne to allow access to and from trails cause more problems for Shelburne Police Services and the residents of Shelburne? In addition to basic fundamentalists not wanting the nature of Shelburne’s quiet town becoming riddled with the noise of ATV’s on Shelburne streets, Town Council will have weigh safety concerns very seriously when considering the number of those interested in using the trails and their ages. Some drivers of ATV’s can be as young as ten years old as witnessed by this reporter, legal or not, it happens, and with the amended bylaw will drivers have to contend with the under aged drivers on the streets? Although Shelburne Mayor reported having noted a keen interest for ATV enthusiasts urging the amendment to go forward, also noting Councillor Dan Sample who is in favour of the idea reported during the Council meeting that other communities have moved forward with such changes and are doing fine, difficult decision in distance travelled on streets to and from trails will have to be considered and will be near impossible to enforce. When compared other communities, Shelburne has always been a unique demographic and with any change there is no guarantee of success. This issue is just in the early stages of consideration and if you would like to weigh in, write a letter or attend council. Visit The Town Of Shelburne Website for more information http://www.townofshelburne.on.ca/
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