The Corporation of the Town of Essex

Regular Council Meeting Minutes

This meeting was held electronically during a time of Declared Emergency pursuant to Town of Essex By-Law 1902

Monday, May 16, 2022 at 6:00 P.m. - 9:00 P.m.

www.youtube.com/EssexOntario

Present:

• Mayor Richard Meloche
• Deputy Mayor Steve Bjorkman
• Ward 1 Councillor Joe Garon
• Ward 1 Councillor Morley Bowman
• Ward 2 Councillor Kim Verbeek
• Ward 3 Councillor Chris Vander Doelen
• Ward 3 Councillor Jason Matyi
• Ward 4 Councillor Sherry Bondy

Also Present:

• Doug Sweet, Chief Administrative Officer
• Lori Chadwick, Director, Development Services
• Kevin Girard, Director, Infrastructure Services
• Robert Auger, Town Solicitor, Legal and Legislative Services/Clerk
• Shelley Brown, Deputy Clerk, Legal and Legislative Services
• Kate Giurissevich, Director, Corporate Services
• Jake Morassut, Director, Community Services
• Cynthia Cakebread, Manager, Recreation and Culture
• Brandi Sieben, Manager, Human Resources
• Breanna Roles, Acting Assistant Manager, Programs
• Sarah Newton, Assistant Manager, Aquatics
• Zak Kolasa, Deck Supervisor, Aquatics
• Lindsay Dean, Drainage Superintendent
• Rick Arnel, Fire Chief, Fire and Rescue Services

​Accessible formats or communication supports are available upon request. Please contact the Clerk’s Office at [email protected] or 519-776-7336 extension 1100 or 1101.

 

While Council held this meeting in person from the Town of Essex Municipal Building (33 Talbot Street South, Essex Ontario N8M 1A8) this meeting was only available electronically for delegations and by livestream for members of the public via YouTube at www.youtube.com/EssexOntario

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1.

Call to Order

Mayor Meloche called the meeting to order at 6:07 PM.

Mayor Meloche provided a statement on behalf of the Town of Essex regarding the events that transpired at the Optimist Club Essex youth dance that was held on Friday, May 13, 2022. He stated that this type of behaviour is unacceptable and is not only harmful and dangerous but places an unnecessary burden on the police force. He noted that the Town of Essex is working closely with the OPP and will provide full cooperation into this investigation.

2.

Land Acknowledgement

We acknowledge that this land is the traditional territory of the Three Fires Confederacy of First Nations (comprised of the Ojibway, the Odawa, and the Potawatomi Peoples), and of the Huron-Wendat Peoples. We value the significant historical and contemporary contributions of local and regional First Nations and all of the Original Peoples of Turtle Island who have been living and working on the land from time immemorial.

3.

National Anthem

4.

Closed Meeting Report

Robert Auger, Town Solicitor/Clerk, Legal and Legislative Services provided a verbal report on the Closed meeting held on May 16, 2022.

He reported that Council met in Closed session on May 16, 2022 at 4:45 PM as permitted to do so by Section 239 2 (a), (c), and (e) of the Municipal Act. At the Closed meeting Council discussed the security of the property of the municipality and potential litigation affecting the municipality and proposed dispositions of land by the municipality.

Council provided direction to Administration to declare in open session that the property known as 127 Nottingham as being surplus to the needs of the municipality with further direction to provide the requisite public notice and return to Council with a by-law authorizing the sale of the property by way of public tender in accordance with By-Law 855, being a by-law to establish policies and procedures for the sale and disposition of surplus land.

Council further provided direction to Administration to declare a portion of the property known as 0 Bell Avenue (approximately 200 feet by 25 feet located in the north west extent of that property) as being surplus to the needs of the municipality with further direction to provide the requisite public notice and bring back to Council an authorizing by-law for the sale of property by way of private sale in accordance with By-Law 855.

Finally, Mr. Auger reported out of closed session that Council was provided with a verbal update on two Town developments namely the Essex Town Centre development and Town's View development together with an update on a potential by-law enforcement matter.

• R22-05-219
  Moved By Councillor Vander Doelen
  Seconded By Councillor Verbeek

  That Council declare127 Nottingham as surplus; and further

  That Administration be directed to provide the requisite public notice and prepare an authorizing by-law to sell the property by way of public tender in accordance with By-Law 855.

  Carried
• R22-05-220
  Moved By Deputy Mayor Bjorkman
  Seconded By Councillor Garon

  That Council declare that portion of the property known as 0 Bell Avenue, being a 200 by 25 feet portion located in the northwest extent of the property as being surplus to the needs of the municipality; and further

  That Administration be directed to provide the requisite public notice and prepare an authorizing by-law for the sale of the subject property by way of private sale in accordance with By-Law 855.

  Carried

5.

Declarations of Conflict of Interest

Councillor Bondy declared a conflict of interest pertaining to Agenda Item 10.10 and stated that the reason for the conflict was due to a family member employed with Upper Canada Growers.

Deputy Mayor Bjorkman declared a conflict of interest pertaining to Agenda Item 19.1.2 due to the fact that he owns and operates a short-term rental.

6.

Adoption of Published Agenda

6.1

Regular Council Meeting Agenda for May 16, 2022

• R22-05-221
  Moved By Councillor Garon
  Seconded By Deputy Mayor Bjorkman

  That the published agenda for the May 16, 2022 Regular Council Meeting be adopted with the following amendments:

  1. That Agenda Item 17.2.3 be added to allow for the presentment of a Notice of Motion by Councillor Bondy.

  2. That Agenda Item 17.2.4 be added to allow for the presentment of a Notice of Motion by Councillor Verbeek.

  Carried

7.

Adoption of Minutes

7.1

Regular Council Meeting Minutes for May 2, 2022

• R22-05-222
  Moved By Councillor Vander Doelen
  Seconded By Councillor Bondy

  That the minutes of the Regular Council Meeting held May 2, 2022 be adopted as circulated.

  Carried

8.

Public Presentations

9.

Unfinished Business

10.

Reports from Administration

10.1

Community Service-2022-02

RE: Lifesaving Society Affiliate Recognition Awards 2021

Cynthia Cakebread, Manager, Recreation and Culture, stated that the Town of Essex won the Scarborough Cup for the largest lifesaving and leadership program in the community with a population between 10,000 to 50,000 as well as the R. Bredin Staples Cup for the largest leadership training program per capita. She further stated that the Town of Essex is in the top 15 largest program providers in the Province of Ontario out of 900 affiliates.

Ms. Cakebread also provided an update on the June recreation and parks month in Essex which provides benefits for physical, social and environmental health. She noted that the Town received a participACTION grant which allows the Town to offer a number of free programs. She explained that residents can take part in ParticipACTION by scanning the QR code and completing the form to confirm their activity for up to three activities per week to be entered into weekly draws to receive credits toward Town of Essex programs.

• R22-05-223
  Moved By Councillor Vander Doelen
  Seconded By Councillor Bowman

  That Recreation and Culture Report-2022-01 entitled Lifesaving Society Affiliate Recognition Awards 2021 prepared by Cynthia Cakebread, Manager, Recreation and Culture dated May 16, 2022 be received; and

  That the Lifesaving Society Annual Report Affiliate Recognition 2021 be received for Council and public information.

  Carried

10.2

Legal and Legislative Services-2022-19

RE: 2022 Municipal Election Procedures for Vote and Vote-Counting Equipment

• R22-05-224
  Moved By Councillor Bowman
  Seconded By Deputy Mayor Bjorkman

  That Legal and Legislative Services Report-2022-19 2022 Municipal Election Procedures for Voting and Vote-counting equipment be received for Council and public information.

  Carried

10.3

Legal and Legislative Services-2022-20

RE: Election Sign By-Law

Robert Auger, Town Solicitor/Clerk, Legal and Legislative Services explained that in July 2020 Council received a Legal and Legislative Services Report which comprised an overall review of all election policies and procedures from the 2018 election. He stated that one of the recommendations was for a creation of a stand-alone election sign by-law to provide more clarity for candidates during all elections and allow for that by-law to be updated/amended where and when needed without having to impact the larger more comprehensive general sign by-law (By-law 1350). He noted that this proposed by-law provides for more extensive definitions, details of the requirements around the use of those election signs, requirements or details concerning the timing, placement and location throughout the municipality and acts as a deterrence from placing the election signs in violation.

Mr. Auger stated that the by-law also provides for an Election sign permit process requiring candidates to submit an application along with a refundable deposit prior to erecting election signs. Deposits will be refunded in full provided that there are no violations to the Election Sign By-Law. Mr. Auger advised that violations to the Election Sign By-Law could further constitute an offence under the Provincial Offences Act including obtaining and placing signs without a permit.

Council proceeded to deliberate and have discussion on the proposed by-law.

Council directed Administration to amend Section 12.2 of the By-law regarding Removal of Election Signs in By-Law 2028 to read that the elections signs are to be removed within 5 days of the Election opposed to 3 days as proposed in the draft by-law.

• R22-05-225
  Moved By Councillor Verbeek
  Seconded By Deputy Mayor Bjorkman

  That Legal and Legislative Services Report-2022-20 Entitled Election Sign By-Law prepared by Robert Auger, Town Solicitor/Clerk be received, and

  That By-Law Number 2028 Being a By-law to regulate the use of election signs within the geographical boundaries of the Town of Essex and as amended in Section 12.2 (to read that the elections signs are to be removed within 5 days after the Election) receive a first, a second and a third reading and be finally passed this 16^th day of May 2022.

  Carried

10.4

Legal and Legislative Services-2022-21

RE: Restricted Acts (Lame Duck) Delegation of Authority Provisions

• R22-05-226
  Moved By Councillor Bondy
  Seconded By Councillor Matyi

  That Legal and Legislative Services-2022-21 entitled Restricted Acts (Lame Duck) Delegation of Authority Provisions prepared by Robert W Auger, Town Solicitor/Clerk dated May 16, 2022 be received; and

  That By-Law 2157 being a by-law to Temporarily delegate certain authorities during a “Lame Duck” Council Period be read a first and a second time and be provisionally adopted on May 16, 2022.

  Carried

10.5

Legal and Legislative Services-2022-22

RE: 2022 Municipal Election Accessibility Plan

• R22-05-227
  Moved By Councillor Bowman
  Seconded By Deputy Mayor Bjorkman

  That Legal and Legislative Services Report-2022-22 entitled 2022 Municipal Election Accessibility Plan prepared by Robert Auger, Town Solicitor/Clerk dated May 16, 2022 be received.

  Carried

10.6

Legal and Legislative Services-2022-23

RE: Court of Revision for Long Marsh Drain: Replacement and Future Bridge

• R22-05-228
  Moved By Councillor Bowman
  Seconded By Councillor Vander Doelen

  That the following three (3) members of the Drainage Board: Janice Dougherty, Percy Dufour and Felix Weigt-Bienzle be appointed to sit as members of the Court of Revision to be convened for the Long Marsh Drain: Replacement and Future Bridge, Geographic Township of Colchester South, Project REI2020D022 pursuant to the Report prepared by Gerard Rood, Professional Engineer, Rood Engineering Inc., and dated March 2, 2022 (hereinafter the “Report”), such Court of Revision to be scheduled for 5:00 pm on June 14, 2022 at the Essex Centre Sports Complex Shaheen Room; and

  That By-Law 2154 being a by-law to provide for the Long Marsh Drain: Replacement and Future Bridge, Geographic Township of Colchester South, Project REI2020D022, be read a first and a second time and be provisionally adopted on May 16, 2022.

  Carried

10.7

Legal and Legislative Services-2022-24

RE: Amendments to Procedural By-Law and Electronic Participation in Meetings

• Schedule A - Legal and Legislative Services Report-2022-16
• Schedule B - Redline Revisions of Proposed Changes for Council's Review
• Schedule C - By-Law 2159 Being a by-law to provide Rules and Procedure for the Conduct of Meetings of the Municipal Council and its Committees and Boards

Robert Auger, Town Solicitor/Clerk, Legal and Legislative Services provided a summary of the amendments in the proposed Procedural By-Law which were as follows:

1. Up to three (3) members of Council may participate in Regular and Special Meetings electronically when there is an extraordinary situation preventing that Council member from participating in person. The Mayor and CAO will have the authority to decide on a council members request to participate electronically in such meeting and that Council member participating electronically will  be considered present at meeting and entitled to vote at the meeting but they would not count toward quorum.
2. Any or all Council members would be able to participate electronically in any emergency Council meeting or Closed meeting of Council and such electronic participation would count toward determination of quorum.
3. Public delegations would have the option to attend any open meetings either electronically or in-person.
4. Where and when feasible all open meetings of Council will be live streamed.

Mr. Auger stated that in regards to Committees of Council Administration will be working on a  Report for later this year with recommendations on  relating to Committee structures and terms of reference for the next Term of Council (2022-2026) and this will include a feasibility review of other aspects including electronic participation by Committee members and livestreaming of Committee meetings

During discussion Council noted that under the terms of the current proposed new by-law if three Council members appeared electronically and one other Council member was absent then the Council meeting would be cancelled due to a lack of quorum. Council then discussed options relating to amending the proposed by-law such that  attendance in person could still be the preferred option but to also provide for the flexibility of having those members of Council appearing electronically to count as quorum.

• R22-05-229
  Moved By Councillor Bowman
  Seconded By Councillor Vander Doelen

  That Legal and Legislative Services-2022-24 entitled Amendments to Procedural By-Law and Electronic Participation in Meetings be received;

  That By-Law 2159 Being a by-law to provide Rules of Procedure for the Conduct of Meetings of the Municipal Council and its Committees and Boards be read a first and a second time and provisionally adopted on May 16, 2022; and

  That Council direct administration to further amend and return the By-law for third reading such that Council will have the ability by resolution or otherwise pursuant to the Procedural by-law to grant those Council Members who participate electronically as counting towards the determination of quorum.

  Carried
• R22-05-230
  Moved By Councillor Bondy
  Seconded By Councillor Vander Doelen

  That, where feasible, Special Meetings of Council be livestreamed for the remainder of this term of Council.

   

  Carried

10.8

Planning-2022-04

RE: Extension of Draft Plan Approval for Phase 3 of the Woodview Estates Residential Subdivision (Ward 1)

• R22-05-231
  Moved By Councillor Bowman
  Seconded By Deputy Mayor Bjorkman

  That Planning Report-2022-04 entitled Extension of Draft Plan Approval for Phase 3 of the Woodview Estates Residential Subdivision (Ward 1) prepared by Rita Jabbour, RPP, Manager, Planning Services dated May 16, 2022 be received;

  That Council approve a three (3) year extension of the draft plan of subdivision for the undeveloped portion of the Woodview Estates Subdivision, legally described as Part of LT 281, Concession South of Talbot Road (Colchester North) (File No: 37-T-12003) until July 24, 2025; and

  That Administration be directed to notify the Manager of Planning Services, County of Essex, of the Town’s support for the extension of draft plan approval.

  Carried

10.9

Planning-2022-13

RE: Redline Revisions for Phase 3 of the Woodview Estates Residential Subdivision (Ward 1) (File No. 37-T-12003)

• R22-05-232
  Moved By Councillor Vander Doelen
  Seconded By Deputy Mayor Bjorkman

  That Planning Report-2022-13 entitled Redline Revisions for Phase 3 of the Woodview Estates Residential Subdivision (Ward 1) (File No. 37-T-12003) prepared by Rita Jabbour, RPP, Manager, Planning Services dated May 16, 2022 be received;

  That Council approve the requested redline revisions to the draft plan of subdivision for Phase 3 of the Woodview Estates Residential Subdivision subject to the following conditions of draft plan approval:

  • That an easement be registered over Block 74 (the temporary stormwater management facility) in favour of the Town of Essex for the purposes of maintenance and operation of the temporary SWMF, and,
  • That the Owner acknowledges that the temporary Stormwater Management Facility ("SWMF") may be considered permanent if the pond becomes a habitat for wildlife or if for any reason, the expansion of the Woodview SWMF as per the Town of Essex “Improvements to Essex Ward 1 Southwest Storm Sewer System –Phases 1 & 2 Class Environmental Assessment ("EA") Report (Stantec, 2021)” is not feasible or permitted by regulatory agencies/stakeholders; and

  That the Manager of Planning Services for the County of Essex be advised accordingly of Council’s resolution.

  Carried

10.10

Planning-2022-14

RE: Site Plan Control Amendment for 1110 Ridge Road (File No. SPC-02-22)

Lori Chadwick, Director, Infrastructure Services, provided an overview of the site plan control process which includes the location of entrances/exits and number of parking spaces. She explained that the recommendations in the noise study are apart of the site plan control agreement which includes type of building materials as well as other mitigation materials in order to support the reduction and setback between the dwellings and wind turbine.

Council discussed the location of the bunkhouses from the wind turbine and mitigation measures.

Councillor Bondy had declared a conflict of interest and did not vote or participate in the discussion regarding Planning Report-2022-14.

• R22-05-233
  Moved By Councillor Bowman
  Seconded By Councillor Vander Doelen

  That Planning Report-2022-14 entitled Site Plan Control Amendment for 1110 Ridge Road (File No. SPC-02-22) prepared by Rita Jabbour, RPP, Manager, Planning Services dated May 16, 2022 be received; and

  That By-Law 2147, Being a By-law to Amend the Site Plan Control Agreement between the Corporation of the Town of Essex and Upper Canada Growers Land INC be read a first, a second and a third time and finally passed on May 16, 2022.

  Carried

10.11

Fire and Rescue Services-2022-06

RE: Result of Request for Tender – Supply and Delivery of New Single Axle Rear Mount Aerial Platform

• R22-05-234
  Moved By Councillor Verbeek
  Seconded By Councillor Garon

  That Fire and Rescue Services Report-2022-06 entitled Result of Request for Tender – Supply and Delivery of New Single or Tandem Axle Rear Mount Aerial Platform prepared by Richard Arnel dated May 16, 2022, be received;

  That Council award the Request for Tender – Supply and Delivery of a New Tandem Axle Rear Mount Aerial Platform in the total amount of $1,552,847,42 including non-refundable Harmonized Sales Tax to City View Specialty Vehicles; and

  That Council approves the additional funding of $52,847.42 including non-refundable Harmonized Sales Tax above the approved 2022 Capital Budget of $1,500,000.00 for the Supply and Delivery of one New Tandem Axle Rear Mount Aerial Platform (project FD-22-0003) to be funded from the Town’s Asset Management Reserve.

  Carried

10.12

Capital Works and Asset Management-2022-02

RE: Essex Streetscape Update and Schedule

Kevin Girard, Director, Infrastructure Services, provided an update to Council regarding the Essex Centre Streetscape and noted that due to the COVID-19 pandemic the Canadian construction industry has experienced significant delays with supply chains for essential materials such as watermains, sewers, streetlights, and electrical material. He explained that the Essex Centre Streetscape is a 7-month project and without construction delays would leave the project unfinished during the winter of 2022 and could pose issues with safety and accessibility. He stated that Administration is recommending that aspects of the Essex Centre Streetscape be delayed until 2023 which will likely make bidding more competitive and reduce the construction impact to local businesses and residents. Mr. Girard stated that Administration is recommending that all construction materials be ordered in 2022, that the underground infrastructure be completed, that Victoria Avenue Road works and the multi-use trail be completed, and if possible, the proposed work from the north end of Talbot (Maidstone Ave to Medora Ave) and at the south end (Brien Ave to Gosfield Townline) be completed with the exception of the new streetlighting and some minor restoration. 

• R22-05-235
  Moved By Councillor Garon
  Seconded By Deputy Mayor Bjorkman

  That Capital Works and Asset Management Report-2022-02 entitled, Essex Streetscape Update and Schedule prepared by Kevin Girard, Director, Infrastructure Services dated May 16, 2022 be received.

  Carried

10.13

Capital Works and Asset Management-2022-04

RE: County Road 20 Connecting Link Rehabilitation

• R22-05-236
  Moved By Councillor Bondy
  Seconded By Councillor Verbeek

  That Capital Works and Asset Management Report-2022-04 entitled, County Road 20 Connecting Link Rehabilitation prepared by Kevin Girard, Director, Infrastructure Services dated May 16, 2022 be received;

  That Council approve the expenditure of $100,000 for the Town of Essex share of the rehabilitation of County Road 20 from Walnut Street South to eastern limit of the County Road 20 connecting link from unspent OCIF (Ontario Community Infrastructure Funds).

  Councillor Bondy requested a recorded vote.

  Voters	Support	Opposed	Conflict En
  Mayor Meloche	X
  Councillor Bondy	X
  Deputy Mayor Bjorkman	X
  Councillor Bowman	X
  Councillor Garon	X
  Councillor Verbeek	X
  Councillor Vander Doelen		X
  Councillor Matyi	X
  Results	7	1	0

  Carried (7 to 1)

10.14

Drainage-2022-05

RE: 9th Concession Drain Report Reconsideration

• R22-05-237
  Moved By Deputy Mayor Bjorkman
  Seconded By Councillor Matyi

  That Drainage-2022-05 entitled 9^th Concession Drain Report Consideration prepared by Lindsay Dean, Drainage Superintendent dated May 16, 2022 be received;

  That pursuant to Section 57 of the Drainage Act the report for the 9^th Concession Drain dated March 24, 2022 be referred back to Rood Engineering Inc. for reconsideration; and

  That the Drainage Board meeting minutes dated April 21, 2022 for the Consideration of Report: 9th Concession Drain, be received.

  Carried

10.15

Economic Development-2022-08

RE: Building Report and Development Overview April 2022

• R22-05-238
  Moved By Councillor Garon
  Seconded By Councillor Bowman

  That Economic Development -2022-08 entitled Building Report and Development Overview April 2022 prepared by Nelson Silveira, Economic Development Officer dated May 16, 2022 be received for information.

  Carried

10.16

Economic Development-2022-09

RE: Essex Tourism Events Fund Application - Q2 2022

• R22-05-239
  Moved By Deputy Mayor Bjorkman
  Seconded By Councillor Matyi

  That Economic Development-2022-09 entitled Essex Tourism Events Fund Application – Q2 2022 prepared by Nelson Silveira, Economic Development Officer dated May 16, 2022, be received; and

  That Council approve the distribution of $1,000.00 of funding to Heritage Colchester from the Essex Tourism Events Fund.

  Carried

10.17

Development Services-2022-07

RE: Contract Building Inspector

• R22-05-240
  Moved By Councillor Vander Doelen
  Seconded By Councillor Verbeek

  That Development Services Report-2022-07 entitled Contract Building Inspector prepared by Lori Chadwick, Director, Development Services dated May 16, 2022 be received;

  That Council approve an as-needed Contract Building Inspector from May 16, 2002 through to December 31, 2022; and

  That By-Law 2151, being a by-law to appoint Dan Boudreau as a Building Inspector for the Town of Essex, be read a first, a second and a third time and finally passed on May 16, 2022.

  Carried

11.

Reports from Youth Members

12.

County Council Update

12.1

Essex County Council Regular Meeting Minutes - April 20, 2022

• R22-05-241
  Moved By Deputy Mayor Bjorkman
  Seconded By Councillor Bowman

  That the minutes of the Regular County Council Meeting held April 20, 2022 be received.

  Carried

13.

Correspondence

13.1

Correspondence to be received

• R22-05-242
  Moved By Councillor Garon
  Seconded By Councillor Bowman

  That all of the correspondence listed in Agenda Item 13.1 be received and, where indicated, to further share such information with the community using suitable methods of communication.

  Carried

13.1.1

Town of Arnprior

RE: Support for Humanitarian Efforts in Ukraine

13.1.2

Corporation of the Township of Cramahe

RE: Bill 109: More Homes for Everyone Act

13.1.3

The Corporation of Mississippi Mills

RE: Ontario Must Build it Right the First Time

13.1.4

Office of the Solicitor General

RE: Windsor-Essex Regional Community Safety and Well-Being Plan 2022-2026

13.1.5

Tay Valley Township

RE: Draft Regulations regarding Firefighter Certification

13.1.6

City of Thorold

RE: Russian Sanctions

13.2

Correspondence to be considered for receipt and support

13.2.1

Essex Municipal Heritage Committee

RE: Resignation of Tony Paniccia from the Essex Municipal Heritage Committee

• R22-05-243
  Moved By Deputy Mayor Bjorkman
  Seconded By Councillor Garon

  That a letter be sent to Tony Paniccia thanking him for his time spent on the Essex Municipal Heritage Committee.

  Carried

13.2.2

Bruce Sovran, 1175 County Road 23

RE: Request for temporary relief from the Town's Animal Care and Control By-Law 1606, Section 3.04 Number of Dogs to permit 5 dogs 

• R22-05-244
  Moved By Councillor Vander Doelen
  Seconded By Councillor Matyi

  That correspondence from Bruce Sovran requesting exemption from Section 3.04 of By-Law 1606 being the Town of Essex Animal Care and Control By-Law to permit 5 dogs at 1175 County Road 23 until such time that 2 of the dogs are deceased be received and supported.

  Carried

13.2.3

Town of Essex Accessibility Advisory Committee

RE: National AccessAbility Week - May 27 - June 4, 2022

• R22-05-245
  Moved By Councillor Bondy
  Seconded By Deputy Mayor Bjorkman

  That the correspondence by the Town of Essex Accessibility Advisory Committee's, Vice Chair Lisa Wallace, asking Council to consider proclaiming National AccessAbililty Week in the Town of Essex, be received and supported; and
  That Council proclaims the week of May 27- June 4, 2022 as National AccessAbility Week in the Town of Essex by adopting the following resolution:
  Whereas, National AccessAbility Week (NAAW) takes place every year starting on the last Sunday in May. It is a time when
  accessibility and inclusion is promoted across communities and workplaces and a time to celebrate the contributions of Canadians with disabilities. It is also an opportunity to recognize the efforts of Canadians who are actively removing barriers and ensuring persons with disabilities have an equal chance to participate in all aspects of Canadian society;
  And Whereas, the increased social and economic inclusion of persons with disabilities has positive economic and social benefits, for persons with disabilities, for business, the economy, and society in general;
  And Whereas, when persons with disabilities can access meaningful employment, resources and services, Canada's economy grows. Businesses have the chance to welcome more customers, service satisfaction improves and workplaces reflect Canada's diversity;
  And Whereas, by bringing Canadians together to recognize the valuable contributions of persons with disabilities, we are strengthening the collaborative effort needed to create a country that is fully accessible and inclusive;
  Therefore, I Mayor Richard Meloche, do hereby designate the week of May 27 to June 4, 2022 as National AccessAbililty Week (NAAW) in the Town of Essex.

  Carried

13.2.4

E.L.K. Energy Inc.

RE: Progress Update on Action Plan (2021-2022)

Councillor Bondy requested that a letter be sent to E.L.K. Energy Inc. requesting a detailed response regarding updates in the community.

Councillor Vander Doelen confirmed with Mayor Meloche that E.L.K. Energy is a governance board and stated that he would like it noted that E.L.K. Board has no power over individual transmissions or poles.

• R22-05-246
  Moved By Councillor Bondy
  Seconded By Councillor Verbeek

  That the Town of Essex Council instruct Administration to send a letter to E.L.K. Energy Inc. requesting an update on the Town of Essex action plan similar to the action plan report dated May 4, 2022 that the Town of Kingsville received.

  Councillor Bondy requested a recorded vote.

  Voters	Support	Opposed	Conflict En
  Mayor Meloche	X
  Councillor Bondy	X
  Deputy Mayor Bjorkman	X
  Councillor Bowman		X
  Councillor Garon	X
  Councillor Verbeek	X
  Councillor Vander Doelen	X
  Councillor Matyi	X
  Results	7	1	0

  Carried (7 to 1)

14.

Committee Meeting Minutes

• R22-05-247
  Moved By Councillor Bondy
  Seconded By Councillor Garon

  That the Committee Meeting minutes listed in Agenda Item 14, together with any recommendations to Council noted therein, be received, approved and adopted as circulated.

  Carried

14.1

Essex Accessibility Committee - March 9, 2022

14.2

Essex Police Service Board - April 7, 2022

14.3

Co-An Park Committee - April 13, 2022

14.4

Drainage Board - April 14, 2022

RE: Long Marsh Drain and South Townline Drain

14.5

Essex Fun Fest - April 21, 2022

14.6

Personnel Committee - April 27, 2022

• R22-05-248
  Moved By Councillor Bowman
  Seconded By Deputy Mayor Bjorkman

  That the Personnel Committee recommend to Council the adoption of the Disconnecting from Work Policy as presented in HR Report 2022-09 by resolution at this Council meeting.

  Carried

15.

Financial

15.1

2023 Budget Initiation Memo

Kate Giurissevich, Director, Financial Services, provided Council with a walkthrough of the new changes that are being implemented in the 2023 budget including a budget reset. She explained that budget reset is an in-depth approach to the budget process. She stated that in June through the month of August the Town will be launching a public consultation campaign to receive input regarding the 2023 budget.

 

• R22-05-249
  Moved By Councillor Bowman
  Seconded By Councillor Matyi

  That the 2023 Budget Initiation Memo be received for information.

  Carried

16.

New Business

16.1

Councillor Bondy

RE: Councillor Bondy's Notice of Motion as listed as Item 17.2.1 on the published Agenda

Jake Morassut, Director, Community Services, stated that this project is not in the 2022 budget or the Parks and Recreation Master Plan and Administration does not recommend moving the basketball nets. He confirmed that there are a couple basketball nets at the Water Department which were removed from the Colchester Park. He stated that they are cut down to six feet post and would need extensions on them to meet the 10 feet requirement for basketball nets. He further stated that the Town would need utility locates which were submitted last week however locates typically take 2 to 3 months to receive.

Doug Sweet, Chief Administration Officer, stated that if Council supports this in principle this will provide Administration direction to move forward with utility locates and budgeting options. He further stated that Administration will return to Council with an update at the Regular Council Meeting on June 6, 2022.

• R22-05-250
  Moved By Deputy Mayor Bjorkman
  Seconded By Councillor Matyi

  That Agenda Item 17.2.1 be moved up to new business.

  Carried
• R22-05-251
  Moved By Councillor Bondy
  Seconded By Deputy Mayor Bjorkman

  That Council approve in principle the installation of one of the basketball nets from behind the Water Department located in Harrow be installed on the cement pad at the Harrow High School subject to the completion of utility locates and the review of budget options.

  Carried

16.2

Councillor Verbeek

• R22-05-252
  Moved By Councillor Bondy
  Seconded By Councillor Verbeek

  That Agenda Item 17.2.4 be moved up to New Business

  Carried
• R22-05-253
  Moved By Councillor Verbeek
  Seconded By Councillor Bowman

  That Council send a letter to the school boards requesting the OPP to be invited and allowed to start running the Values Influence Peers Program (VIP) in our grade schools and this letter be circulated to all the municipalities in Essex County.

  Carried

17.

Notices of Motion

17.1

The following Notice of Motion was presented at the May 2, 2022 Regular Council Meeting and is being brought forward this evening for Council's consideration:

17.1.1

Councillor Bondy

• R22-05-254
  Moved By Councillor Bondy
  Seconded By Deputy Mayor Bjorkman

  That Council use either grant money or funds from the Council Contingency Capital Project to construct/install an accessible bathroom at the Kinsmen field house in Ward 1.

  Councillor Bondy requested a recorded vote.

  Voters	Support	Opposed	Conflict En
  Mayor Meloche	X
  Councillor Bondy	X
  Deputy Mayor Bjorkman	X
  Councillor Bowman	X
  Councillor Garon	X
  Councillor Verbeek	X
  Councillor Vander Doelen	X
  Councillor Matyi	X
  Results	8	0	0

  Carried (8 to 0)

17.1.2

Councillor Bondy

That Council direct administration to install a "No Dumping" sign on Dunn Road between 560 Dunn Road and 650 Dunn Road on the East side by the field culvert due to years and years of repeat dumping at this location.

By way of friendly amendment the stated motion was amended as follows:

• R22-05-255
  Moved By Councillor Bondy
  Seconded By Councillor Matyi

  That Council direct Administration to conduct a social media campaign regarding "No Dumping." 

  Carried

17.1.3

Councillor Bondy

• R22-05-256
  Moved By Councillor Bondy
  Seconded By Councillor Verbeek

  That Essex Council ask County Council to review its policies regarding the appointment of the Essex Windsor Solid Waste Authority Board and include one Representative from the Town of Essex to sit on the board due to the Town of Essex being the host municipality.

  Carried

17.2

The following Notice of Motion is being presented this evening and will be brought forward for Council's consideration at the June 6, 2022 Regular Council Meeting:

17.2.1

Councillor Garon

That Council direct Administration to look into a means of better protecting our public parks and Town owned properties from graffiti and other vandalism through design strategies that minimize opportunity.

17.2.2

Councillor Bondy

That Council direct Administration to amend the parking by-law to ensure the OPP can enforce the parking regulations.

18.

Reports and Announcements from Council Members

Councillor Bowman congratulated the Lakeshore Canadians for winning the Provincial Championship

Mayor Meloche noted that the McGregor Music Festival is taking place on June 12, 2022 in McGregor at Co-An Park and proceeds from the event will be donated to the Regional Windsor-Essex Cancer Society.

19.

By-Laws

19.1

By-Laws that require a third and final reading

19.1.1

By-Law 2152

Being a by-law to confirm the proceedings of the May 2, 2022, Regular Meeting of Council of The Corporation of the Town of Essex

• R22-05-257
  Moved By Councillor Vander Doelen
  Seconded By Councillor Bowman

  That By-Law 2152 being a by-law to confirm the proceedings of the May 2, 2022, Regular Meeting of Council of The Corporation of the Town of Essex be read a third time and finally passed May 16, 2022

  Carried

19.1.2

By-Law 2025

Being a by-law to licence and regulate Short Term Rental Units in the Town of Essex

• R22-05-258
  Moved By Councillor Vander Doelen
  Seconded By Councillor Matyi

  That By-Law 2025 being a by-law to licence and regulate Short Term Rental Units in the Town of Essex be read a third time and finally passed on May 16, 2022.

  Carried

19.2

By-Laws that require a first, second, third and final reading

19.3

By-Laws that require a first and second reading

19.3.1

By-Law 2158

Being a by-law to confirm the proceedings of the May 16, 2022, Regular Meeting of Council of the Corporation of the Town of Essex

• R22-05-259
  Moved By Councillor Garon
  Seconded By Councillor Matyi

  That By-Law 2158 being a by-law to confirm the proceedings of the May 16, 2022, Regular Meeting of Council of The Corporation of the Town of Essex be read a first and a second time and provisionally adopted May 16, 2022.

  Carried

20.

Adjournment

• R22-05-260
  Moved By Councillor Garon
  Seconded By Deputy Mayor Bjorkman

  That the meeting be adjourned at 9:20 PM.

  Carried