The Corporation of the Municipality of

Chatham-Kent

Chatham-Kent Council – Electronic Meeting

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Council Chambers, Chatham-Kent Civic Centre
Present:
  • Mayor Canniff, 
  • Councillor Authier, 
  • Councillor Bondy, 
  • Councillor Ceccacci, 
  • Councillor Crew, 
  • Councillor Faas, 
  • Councillor Finn, 
  • Councillor Hall, 
  • Councillor Harrigan, 
  • Councillor Kirkwood-Whyte, 
  • Councillor Latimer, 
  • Councillor McGrail, 
  • Councillor B. McGregor, 
  • Councillor C. McGregor, 
  • Councillor Pinsonneault, 
  • Councillor Sulman, 
  • Councillor Thompson, 
  • and Councillor Wright

There was no supplementary agenda.

The General Manager of Community Human Services, introduced and welcomed Dr. Kangeswaren our new Medical of Officer of Health who joined the Municipality on August 29, 2022. Mayor Canniff welcomed Dr. Kangeswaren. 


Mayor Canniff recognized the members of the Chatham Golden Eagles, Under 15 Baseball Team who were the Eastern Canadian Champions for 2022 outlining their many accomplishments saying they made Chatham-Kent proud.

The following two deputations were received regarding items listed on the agenda and read by the Clerk’s Office.

  • Dan Van Moorsel, Chatham-Kent Home Builders Association - Item #17(b) Motion by Councillor Bondy re Reconsideration of Development Charges By-law
  • Eloise Williscroft, Erieau Community Association - Item #20(e) Motion by Councillor Ceccacci re Inclusion of Erieau Beach Playground Parking Lot Upgrade in 2023 Capital Budget

The Municipal Clerk explained that all administrative reports and notices of motion would be listed under the Consent Agenda. Council would have the opportunity to pull any items of the consent agenda and place them aside to be discussed or voted on separately.  All items not placed aside would be voted on in one motion.

The Municipal Clerk noted that the following items have been placed aside for discussion and voting:

  • Item 13(b) - Audit and Risk Committee Minutes
  • Item 14(a) - Tender Award: T22-184 Mariners Road Storm Sewer Improvement, Community of Erieau
  • Item 14(d) - Housing Focused Outreach Services
  • Item 15(a) - CK Child and Youth planning Network - Annual Report 2021
  • Item 15(b) - Chatham-Kent Public Library Annual Report 2021
  • Item 16(a) - 2021 Audited Financial Statements
  • Item 16(b) - BIA Audits
  • Item 16(d) - 2021 Final Operations Variance
  • Item 16(e) - Waste to Energy Project Update
  • Item 16(f) - High Speed Fibre Update
  • Item 17(a) - Community Support Agreement with Hydro One Networks Inc. on the Priority Transmission Projects in Southwestern Ontario
  • Item 17(b) - Motion by Councillor Bondy re Reconsideration of Development Charges By-law
  • Item 20(a) - Surveillance Cameras on Municipal Property
  • Item 20(b) - Use and Care By-law Amendment - Grass Cutting and Driveway
  • Item 20(d) - Transit Access Improvements for Rural Residents
  • Item 20(e) - Motion by Councillor Ceccacci re Inclusion of Erieau Beach Playground Parking Lot Upgrade in 2023 Capital Budget
  • Item 21(a) - Committees of Council Review - 2022
  • Item 21(c) - Short-Term Dwelling Rentals Survey
  • Item 21(d) - Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Justice Strategy Update #3
  • MovedCouncillor Crew
    SecondedCouncillor Pinsonneault

    “That the following items be approved:  13(a), 13(c), 14(b), 14(c), 15(c), 16(c), 18(a), 19(a), 20(c), 21(b), 21(e).”

    Yes (18)Mayor Canniff, Councillor Authier, Councillor Bondy, Councillor Ceccacci, Councillor Crew, Councillor Faas, Councillor Finn, Councillor Hall, Councillor Harrigan, Councillor Kirkwood-Whyte, Councillor Latimer, Councillor McGrail, Councillor B. McGregor, Councillor C. McGregor, Councillor Pinsonneault, Councillor Sulman, Councillor Thompson, and Councillor Wright
    Motion Carried (18 to 0)

These minutes were approved as part of the Consent Agenda.

Councillor Sulman noted that he wanted to bring attention to a motion in the Audit and Risk Committee meeting minutes held on September 19th, 2022 which was related to serious allegations of fraud.

 “That the Audit & Risk Committee received information from administration and external auditors in closed session concerning allegations of fraud at the Police Service raised by a local citizen.  Upon hearing a summary of the allegations, and information pertaining to those allegations, the Committee is satisfied that there were no cases of fraud identified.  The Committee finds that final decisions about employment contracts and vehicle use are properly a decision of the Police Board and that some aspects of personnel matters are confidential.  The Committee directs Administration to bring forward a report to Council with background information about oversight of Local Boards under the Municipal Act, 2001, and any recommendations regarding application of policies, and any recommended changes to policies or processes.” 

  • MovedCouncillor Sulman
    SecondedCouncillor Kirkwood-Whyte

    “That the minutes be received for information.”

    Motion Carried

Councillor Thompson asked administration if Mariners Road will be re-paved after the work is completed.

The Manager of Engineering and Transportation stated that the bulk of the project will be completed within the gravel shoulders of the road, however, 11 road crossings will be completed to interconnect the two systems and those will be patched with asphalt and properly restored.  The remainder of the road was not included as part of this contract, however, a multi resurfacing list was provided in February and Mariners Road between Nichols Avenue and Robert Road is scheduled to be resurfaced in 2024/2025 subject to funding and Council approval at that time. 

  • MovedCouncillor Thompson
    SecondedCouncillor Latimer

    It is recommended that:

    1. The tender in the amount of $1,035,684.55, including HST for the Mariners Road Storm Sewer Improvements, Community of Erieau be awarded to Murray Mills Excavating & Trucking (Sarnia) Ltd.

       

    2. The Mayor and Clerk be authorized to sign the necessary agreement.
    Yes (18)Mayor Canniff, Councillor Authier, Councillor Bondy, Councillor Ceccacci, Councillor Crew, Councillor Faas, Councillor Finn, Councillor Hall, Councillor Harrigan, Councillor Kirkwood-Whyte, Councillor Latimer, Councillor McGrail, Councillor B. McGregor, Councillor C. McGregor, Councillor Pinsonneault, Councillor Sulman, Councillor Thompson, and Councillor Wright
    Motion Carried (18 to 0)

Councillor Kirkwood-Whyte commented on how pleased she is with the non-profit organizations who came together to address some of the most important needs of those that are most vulnerable in our community.

Councillor Latimer asked administration what the $200,000.00 will be spent on and how the money will be distributed to ROCK Mission over the next 18 months.  The Director of Employment and Social Services explained that the funding is primarily for staffing of outreach services.

Councillor Latimer asked if data can be collected from various organizations to show how this program impacts community safety. The Director of Employment and Social Services noted that looking at police data may be considered as part of the Community Safety and Well Being Plan. She further noted that they have recently pulled together an internal committee with Police, Fire, Parks and Rec, Public Works, Public Health and Building Development Services and are looking at a more formalized look at encampments. 

  • MovedCouncillor Kirkwood-Whyte
    SecondedCouncillor Latimer

    "That

    1. The service contract for Housing Focused outreach services be awarded to ROCK Missions for a period of 18 months, not to exceed $200,000.
    2. The General Manager, Community Human Services and Director, Employment and Social Services be authorized to sign the necessary agreements.
    Yes (18)Mayor Canniff, Councillor Authier, Councillor Bondy, Councillor Ceccacci, Councillor Crew, Councillor Faas, Councillor Finn, Councillor Hall, Councillor Harrigan, Councillor Kirkwood-Whyte, Councillor Latimer, Councillor McGrail, Councillor B. McGregor, Councillor C. McGregor, Councillor Pinsonneault, Councillor Sulman, Councillor Thompson, and Councillor Wright
    Motion Carried (18 to 0)

The Director of the Child Care and Early Years made a presentation to Council explaining that the Child Youth Planning Network is built of community leaders who are active in managing and delivering services that support children, youth and families. Their purpose is to champion out-comes for children, youth and families in Chatham-Kent through collaborative community leadership.

The Chief Librarian presented their 2021 Annual Report outlining the library’s activities around budget, usage and partnerships.

The information report was received as part of the Consent Agenda.

The Director of Financial Services provided a brief overview of the financial statements including debt, reserves, accrual vs cash accounting and financial position. 

  • MovedCouncillor Sulman
    SecondedCouncillor B. McGregor

    "That

    1. The audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2021 be approved.
    Yes (18)Mayor Canniff, Councillor Authier, Councillor Bondy, Councillor Ceccacci, Councillor Crew, Councillor Faas, Councillor Finn, Councillor Hall, Councillor Harrigan, Councillor Kirkwood-Whyte, Councillor Latimer, Councillor McGrail, Councillor B. McGregor, Councillor C. McGregor, Councillor Pinsonneault, Councillor Sulman, Councillor Thompson, and Councillor Wright
    Motion Carried (18 to 0)

The Director of Financial Services explained that the BIA Chairs were contacted and are, for the most part, supportive of hiring their own auditor for financial reporting.  

Council requested that recommendation 1 be voted on separately.

  • MovedCouncillor Sulman
    SecondedCouncillor B. McGregor

    "That

    1. BIA audits not be included in the Municipal RFP for external audit services and that BIA’s be directed to engage their own auditor for financial reporting periods of December 31, 2021 and beyond.
    Yes (14)Mayor Canniff, Councillor Authier, Councillor Ceccacci, Councillor Crew, Councillor Faas, Councillor Hall, Councillor Harrigan, Councillor Kirkwood-Whyte, Councillor Latimer, Councillor McGrail, Councillor B. McGregor, Councillor C. McGregor, Councillor Sulman, and Councillor Thompson
    No (4)Councillor Bondy, Councillor Finn, Councillor Pinsonneault, and Councillor Wright
    Motion Carried (14 to 4)
  • MovedCouncillor Sulman
    SecondedCouncillor B. McGregor

    2.    BIA’s include in their annual budget a provision for bookkeeping and audit services as required.


    3.    Administration consult with the BIA’s to determine reasonable deadlines to submit outstanding audited financial statements.”

    Yes (18)Mayor Canniff, Councillor Authier, Councillor Bondy, Councillor Ceccacci, Councillor Crew, Councillor Faas, Councillor Finn, Councillor Hall, Councillor Harrigan, Councillor Kirkwood-Whyte, Councillor Latimer, Councillor McGrail, Councillor B. McGregor, Councillor C. McGregor, Councillor Pinsonneault, Councillor Sulman, Councillor Thompson, and Councillor Wright
    Motion Carried (18 to 0)

The report was approved as part of the Consent Agenda.

  • MovedCouncillor Latimer
    SecondedCouncillor B. McGregor

    "That

    1. The final 2021 operating deficit of $160,079 be funded by the Winter Control Reserve.
    Yes (18)Mayor Canniff, Councillor Authier, Councillor Bondy, Councillor Ceccacci, Councillor Crew, Councillor Faas, Councillor Finn, Councillor Hall, Councillor Harrigan, Councillor Kirkwood-Whyte, Councillor Latimer, Councillor McGrail, Councillor B. McGregor, Councillor C. McGregor, Councillor Pinsonneault, Councillor Sulman, Councillor Thompson, and Councillor Wright
    Motion Carried (18 to 0)

In response to a question by Councillor Latimer, the Chief Financial Officer explained that residential organic waste will be processed as well, in the long term.

The report was received for information.

Councillor C. McGregor requested that when available, a map displaying where Xplornet will be expanding the high speed fibre-optic internet infrastructure be shared as well as the type of service that will be included. The Chief Financial Officer explained that the Municipality is doing everything possible to meet the December 21, 2025 deadline, to have everyone in Chatham-Kent connected. 

The General Manager of Community Development explained that a report will come back to Council in the future with recommendations as to how the dollars could be spent.

  • MovedCouncillor Latimer
    SecondedCouncillor Harrigan

    "That

    1. The Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute a Community Support Agreement with Hydro One Networks Inc., on the terms outlined in the agreement and subject to the approval of the final terms by the General Manager, Community Development and Director, Legal Services.
    2. A specific reserve account be created for the annual $1,000,000 Community Benefit Contribution and that any unspent funds be transferred to the reserve at year end.
    3. A specific reserve account be created for the annual $30,000 Donation and that any unspent funds be transferred to the reserve at year end.
    4. The General Manager, Infrastructure & Engineering Services and Chief Administrative Officer be authorized to execute a Road Use Agreement with Hydro One Networks Inc., subject to the approval of the final terms by the Director, Engineering and Transportation Services and Director, Legal Services."
    Yes (18)Mayor Canniff, Councillor Authier, Councillor Bondy, Councillor Ceccacci, Councillor Crew, Councillor Faas, Councillor Finn, Councillor Hall, Councillor Harrigan, Councillor Kirkwood-Whyte, Councillor Latimer, Councillor McGrail, Councillor B. McGregor, Councillor C. McGregor, Councillor Pinsonneault, Councillor Sulman, Councillor Thompson, and Councillor Wright
    Motion Carried (18 to 0)
  • MovedCouncillor Bondy
    SecondedCouncillor Pinsonneault

    “That administration be directed to engage the stakeholders that have appealed the Development Charges By-law and return to Council for any recommendations on future changes to the by-law within 90 days.”

    Yes (18)Mayor Canniff, Councillor Authier, Councillor Bondy, Councillor Ceccacci, Councillor Crew, Councillor Faas, Councillor Finn, Councillor Hall, Councillor Harrigan, Councillor Kirkwood-Whyte, Councillor Latimer, Councillor McGrail, Councillor B. McGregor, Councillor C. McGregor, Councillor Pinsonneault, Councillor Sulman, Councillor Thompson, and Councillor Wright
    Motion Carried (18 to 0)

In response to a question by Councillor Finn, the Director of Legal Services explained that if a surveillance system is installed, there will be signage put up to notify individuals that their information is being collected, however, in order to justify putting a camera up, we must go through a process of considering other methods first before surveillance systems are put in.

  • MovedCouncillor Authier
    SecondedCouncillor Thompson

    "That

    1. The Video Surveillance Policy attached as Appendix “A” be approved.
    2. The Municipal Clerk and CAO be authorized to approve minor amendments to the attached Video Surveillance Policy from time to time as required."
    Yes (15)Mayor Canniff, Councillor Authier, Councillor Bondy, Councillor Crew, Councillor Faas, Councillor Finn, Councillor Hall, Councillor Harrigan, Councillor Kirkwood-Whyte, Councillor Latimer, Councillor B. McGregor, Councillor C. McGregor, Councillor Pinsonneault, Councillor Thompson, and Councillor Wright
    No (1)Councillor Sulman
    Absent (2)Councillor Ceccacci, and Councillor McGrail
    Motion Carried (15 to 1)
  • Councillor Thompson declared a conflict on this item. (He is employed by a grass cutting contractor.)

Councillor Thompson declared a conflict of interest and did not vote on this report.

  • MovedCouncillor Crew
    SecondedCouncillor Harrigan

    "That

    1. A by-law to amend By-law 145-2020 Regulate Use and Care of Municipal Highways be approved.
    Yes (15)Mayor Canniff, Councillor Authier, Councillor Bondy, Councillor Ceccacci, Councillor Crew, Councillor Faas, Councillor Hall, Councillor Harrigan, Councillor Kirkwood-Whyte, Councillor Latimer, Councillor B. McGregor, Councillor C. McGregor, Councillor Pinsonneault, Councillor Sulman, and Councillor Wright
    No (1)Councillor Finn
    Conflict En (1)Councillor Thompson
    Absent (1)Councillor McGrail
    Motion Carried (15 to 1)

This report was approved as part of the Consent Agenda.

In response to a question by Councillor Latimer, the Engineering Technologist noted that the purpose of the report was to provide council with options on how to reduce barriers impacting rural residents with their transit services and noted that the next report coming before Council, will help to address some deficiencies within our urban system to mitigate deficiencies for urban transit users.

  • MovedCouncillor Ceccacci
    SecondedCouncillor Thompson

    “That administration include, as part of the 2023 Municipal Capital Budget Plan, the upgrading of the Erieau Beach Playground Parking Lot at the end of Nichols Ave. and that administration investigate funding opportunities including but not limited to Capital and Lifecycle funds to improve this parking lot in 2023 as budget permits.”

    Yes (13)Mayor Canniff, Councillor Authier, Councillor Bondy, Councillor Ceccacci, Councillor Crew, Councillor Faas, Councillor Finn, Councillor Harrigan, Councillor Kirkwood-Whyte, Councillor Latimer, Councillor B. McGregor, Councillor Thompson, and Councillor Wright
    No (3)Councillor Hall, Councillor C. McGregor, and Councillor Pinsonneault
    Absent (2)Councillor McGrail, and Councillor Sulman
    Motion Carried (13 to 3)

Councillor Wright sought clarification on the merging of Chatham-Kent Museum Advisory Committee and the Ridge House Museum Advisory Committee. The General Manager of Community Human Services explained that the committee members over the course of several years have been populated by the same community reps so they felt that a better job could be done by combining the two committees and addressing history and museums and the culture.

Councillor Pinsonneault expressed concern that there will not be equal representation for the Ridge House Museum on this new committee.

  • MovedCouncillor C. McGregor
    SecondedCouncillor Hall

    "That

    1. By-law to merge the Chatham-Kent Museum Advisory Committee and Ridge House Museum Advisory Committee (Appendix D) be approved.
    Yes (14)Mayor Canniff, Councillor Authier, Councillor Ceccacci, Councillor Crew, Councillor Faas, Councillor Hall, Councillor Harrigan, Councillor Kirkwood-Whyte, Councillor Latimer, Councillor B. McGregor, Councillor C. McGregor, Councillor Sulman, Councillor Thompson, and Councillor Wright
    No (3)Councillor Bondy, Councillor Finn, and Councillor Pinsonneault
    Absent (1)Councillor McGrail
    Motion Carried (14 to 3)
  • MovedCouncillor C. McGregor
    SecondedCouncillor Hall

    "That

    2.  Chatham-Kent Drainage Board Terms of Reference (Appendix E) be approved.

    3.  Election Compliance Audit Committee Terms of Reference (Appendix F) be approved."

    Yes (17)Mayor Canniff, Councillor Authier, Councillor Bondy, Councillor Ceccacci, Councillor Crew, Councillor Faas, Councillor Finn, Councillor Hall, Councillor Harrigan, Councillor Kirkwood-Whyte, Councillor Latimer, Councillor B. McGregor, Councillor C. McGregor, Councillor Pinsonneault, Councillor Sulman, Councillor Thompson, and Councillor Wright
    Absent (1)Councillor McGrail
    Motion Carried (17 to 0)
  • MovedCouncillor Ceccacci
    SecondedCouncillor Finn

    “That the report be referred to administration for a report back on costs, staffing requirements and any other recommendations.”

    Yes (16)Mayor Canniff, Councillor Authier, Councillor Bondy, Councillor Ceccacci, Councillor Crew, Councillor Faas, Councillor Finn, Councillor Hall, Councillor Harrigan, Councillor Kirkwood-Whyte, Councillor Latimer, Councillor B. McGregor, Councillor C. McGregor, Councillor Sulman, Councillor Thompson, and Councillor Wright
    No (1)Councillor Pinsonneault
    Absent (1)Councillor McGrail
    Motion Carried (16 to 1)

Councillor B. McGregor recognized the ongoing work moving forward and thought it is important for the community to understand the different check points and what is being done.  He said it is great to see the engagement of community stakeholders, formalizing these working relationships, which are positive steps forward.  He also highlighted the involvement of the municipality at municipal events such as the Pride Parade as well as the National Indigenous Peoples Day event, moving forward.

This report was approved as part of the Consent Agenda.

Councillor Ceccacci presented a notice of motion regarding Talbot Trail Park. This motion will be added to the October 3, 2022 Council agenda for discussion and voting.

Councillor Ceccacci presented a notice of motion regarding a Traffic Study of Talbot Street and McGeorge Streets, Blenheim. This motion will be added to the October 3, 2022 Council agenda for discussion and voting.

  • MovedCouncillor Kirkwood-Whyte
    SecondedCouncillor Authier

    “That the September 26, 2022 Closed Session Report be received.”

    Yes (17)Mayor Canniff, Councillor Authier, Councillor Bondy, Councillor Ceccacci, Councillor Crew, Councillor Faas, Councillor Finn, Councillor Hall, Councillor Harrigan, Councillor Kirkwood-Whyte, Councillor Latimer, Councillor B. McGregor, Councillor C. McGregor, Councillor Pinsonneault, Councillor Sulman, Councillor Thompson, and Councillor Wright
    Absent (1)Councillor McGrail
    Motion Carried (17 to 0)

Councillor Kirkwood-Whyte congratulated the Chatham-Kent Fire and Rescue Services for receiving accreditation for our tanker shuttle operations, explaining that teams in the rural areas have proved that they can move water to maintain firefighting operations with tankers so effectively, that they can match the water supply urban areas receive from fire hydrants.

Councillor C. McGregor suggested that recognition be scheduled for those Councillors who will not be returning as Council representatives in the next term.

Councillor Latimer reminded Council and residents to participate in community events being held in honour of National Truth and Reconciliation Week. 

Councillor Faas congratulated the Dresden Terry Fox Committee for raising over $51,000 and for their many outstanding contributions over the years.

Councillor Pinsonneault congratulated all those involved with Highgate Agricultural Society on their 168th Fair. He also mentioned a benefit fundraiser that was held for Ethan Hunter in Ridgetown and wanted to congratulate all those who participated and he wished Ethan all the best.

Councillor Authier thanked all those individuals in Chatham-Kent who volunteered/donated and participated in the Terry Fox Run.  The events were very successful across Ontario.

Councillor Finn thanked everyone in Chatham-Kent who bought a “Smile Cookie” stating the proceeds went to the Children’s Treatment Centre.

The Municipal Clerk noted that voter cards have been mailed out and reminded residents of the following important dates:

  • Internet Voting – October 3rd at 10:00 am to Sunday, October 16th at 10:00 pm
  • Advance Polls – Thursday, October 13 from 1:00 pm until 7:00 pm, October 14 from 9:00 am until 4:00 pm and October 15 from 9:00 am until 4:00 pm
  • Election Day – Monday, October 24, 2022
  • MovedCouncillor Pinsonneault
    SecondedCouncillor C. McGregor

    “That the By-laws be taken as read for the first time.”

    Motion Carried
  • MovedCouncillor Pinsonneault
    SecondedCouncillor C. McGregor

    “That the By-laws be taken as read for the second time.”

    Motion Carried
  • MovedCouncillor Faas
    SecondedCouncillor Sulman

    “That the By-laws be taken as read for a third time and finally passed.”

    Motion Carried

The meeting adjourned at 8:55 pm

  • MovedCouncillor Kirkwood-Whyte
    SecondedCouncillor Faas

    “That Chatham-Kent Council adjourn to its next Meeting to be held on Monday, October 3, 2022 and that Chatham-Kent Council authorize itself to meet in closed session on that day to discuss any matters permitted by The Municipal Act.”

    Motion Carried
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