 By Staff
October 15th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
After some rather awkward discussion related to how the city engages with the public mention was made that there was going to be a virtual Town Hall meeting THIS EVENING
 Current ward boundaries Council Composition and Ward Boundary Review is currently at this stage
Community Engagement Session
Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024
7 to 8:30 p.m.
Virtual meeting via Zoom
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83690753520?pwd=hgWxu8bajhD4aGCun8xx1AXx82UP8Z.1(External link)
Passcode: YK1xnb
Come speak to staff about council composition. Input gathered from the community will be used to help create recommendations about council composition that will go to City Council for their consideration in December 2024.
 By Staff
October 15th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Insider Trading Data Filed Friday, October 11th to Monday, October 14th, 2024
The five stocks with the largest dollar value of insider acquisitions in the public market are:
|
| Quebec Innovative Materials Corp. (formerly Quebec Silica Resources Corp.) —–Buy Quantity: 805,000 Average cost: $0.36 Total: $288,240.00 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Inwentash, Sheldon |
3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-10-24 |
202,500 |
$0.38 |
$77,760.00 |
| ThreeD Capital Inc. |
3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-10-24 |
202,500 |
$0.38 |
$77,760.00 |
| Inwentash, Sheldon |
3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-09-24 |
200,000 |
$0.33 |
$66,360.00 |
| ThreeD Capital Inc. |
3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-09-24 |
200,000 |
$0.33 |
$66,360.00 |
|
| Andean Precious Metals Corp —–Buy Quantity: 168,800 Average cost: $1.51 Total: $254,719.20 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| 2176423 Ontario Ltd. |
3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-08-24 |
84,400 |
$1.51 |
$127,359.60 |
| Sprott, Eric |
3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-08-24 |
84,400 |
$1.51 |
$127,359.60 |
|
| Gold Reserve Ltd —–Buy Quantity: 67,049 Average cost: $3.45 Total: $231,579.80 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Camac Partners, LLC |
3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-14-24 |
119 |
$3.39 |
$402.84 |
| Camac Partners, LLC |
3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-11-24 |
66,930 |
$3.45 |
$231,176.96 |
|
| Greenridge Exploration Inc —–Buy Quantity: 150,000 Average cost: $0.80 Total: $119,700.00 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Starr, James Russell |
5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-11-24 |
150,000 |
$0.80 |
$119,700.00 |
|
| Sol Strategies Inc. (formerly, Cypherpunk Holdings Inc.) —–Buy Quantity: 301,000 Average cost: $0.33 Total: $97,845.00 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Guoga, Antanas (Tony) |
4 – Director of Issuer, 5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-11-24 |
301,000 |
$0.33 |
$97,845.00 |
The five stocks with the largest dollar value of insider dispositions in the public market are:
|
| Dollarama Inc —–Sell Quantity: -72,530 Average cost: $143.04 Total: -$10,374,868.70 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Di Pesa, Mark |
5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-11-24 |
-530 |
$143.47 |
-$76,039.10 |
| Robillard, Geoffrey Peter |
5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-11-24 |
-72,000 |
$143.04 |
-$10,298,829.60 |
|
| EQB Inc. (formerly Equitable Group Inc.) —–Sell Quantity: -8,000 Average cost: $105.05 Total: -$840,400.00 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Moor, Andrew |
5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-09-24 |
-8,000 |
$105.05 |
-$840,400.00 |
|
| Tucows Inc —–Sell Quantity: -6,000 Average cost: $26.30 Total: -$157,830.00 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Noss, Elliot Lawrence |
4 – Director of Issuer, 5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-09-24 |
-1,000 |
$26.52 |
-$26,520.00 |
| Noss, Elliot Lawrence |
4 – Director of Issuer, 5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-10-24 |
-2,100 |
$25.97 |
-$54,546.00 |
| Noss, Elliot Lawrence |
4 – Director of Issuer, 5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-11-24 |
-2,900 |
$26.47 |
-$76,764.00 |
|
| Pan American Silver Corp —–Sell Quantity: -4,342 Average cost: $31.09 Total: -$135,012.90 Options Issued: 4,342 Average cost: $17.53 Total: $76,115.26 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Emerson, Christopher |
5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
51 – Exercise of options |
10-10-24 |
2,342 |
$17.53 |
$41,055.26 |
| Emerson, Christopher |
5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-10-24 |
-2,342 |
$31.08 |
-$72,790.30 |
| Emerson, Christopher |
5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
51 – Exercise of options |
10-11-24 |
2,000 |
$17.53 |
$35,060.00 |
| Emerson, Christopher |
5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-11-24 |
-2,000 |
$31.11 |
-$62,222.60 |
|
| Equity Metals Corporation —–Sell Quantity: -300,000 Average cost: $0.22 Total: -$64,500.00 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Macdonald, Robert William John |
5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-10-24 |
-250,500 |
$0.22 |
-$53,857.50 |
| Macdonald, Robert William John |
5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-11-24 |
-49,500 |
$0.22 |
-$10,642.50 |
 By Pepper Parr
October 15th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
 Both Mayor Meed Ward and Ward 1 Councillor Kelvin Galbraith were absent this morning.
Councillor Bentivegna chaired the meeting.
There was a quorum – but just.
This situation is an example of why a seven-member Council is not really that viable.
By Pepper Parr
October 15th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
With all the provincial political parties tightening up – not certain that there will be a Spring provincial election but wanting to be ready if there is one – we are seeing possible candidates putting together teams to seek the nomination.
The current MPP for Burlington, Natalie Pierre would be expected to run for re-election.
 Oliver Parker – son of the city The Liberals were very quiet until Thursday of last week when Oliver Parker, currently a federal civil servant who works in the Department of Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) where he toils as a labour economist evaluating EI policy.
Parker’s parent moved to Burlington when he was very young. The family has been in Burlington for more than 20 years. He describes himself as a “son of the City. High school was at Notre Dame. When he graduated he went to Carleton University and completed a Bachelor of Arts degree and then to Germany to complete a Masters degree at the University of Bayreuth where he focused on the economic history of productivity and trade between the two world wars.
Parker is currently enrolled in a Doctorate program at Queen’s University, Belfast. His PhD program is part time at this point.
Parker is fluent in French and German.
There isn’t much of a profile for Parker in the city – for the most part, he was at university studying.
He was part of the Safe Street group that has delegated at city hall.
Parker said he keeps abreast of the major developments – he argues that the parking part of the 2030 Caroline development is excessive – the city already has a traffic problem. More parking in the downtown area means more cars on the streets.
 Well-educated Notre Dame HS graduate in the process of earning a Doctorate seeks the Burlington Liberal nomination. He has two immediate tasks – plans to knock on every door in the city seeking the nomination and focus on advocating for more affordable housing. He maintains the city is missing its affordable housing targets.
Appreciate that Oliver Parker is seeking the nomination – he has to be nominated first – then he becomes the candidate.
Then he has to win the riding and become an MPP where he will join the 9 Liberals – assuming they are all elected. – their leader Bonnie Crombie will also be seeking a seat in the Legislature.
Andrea Grebenc sought the nomination for the Burlington seat in the last election. She lost to Mariam Manaa who then lost the election to Natalie Pierre. Grebenc announced late Monday that she will seek the nomination.
 By Pepper Parr
October 15th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
I sent a note to Andrea Grebenc on Thanksgiving Day asking if she was in or out of the Provincial Liberal nomination race. Shortly before going to my evening bubble gum for the eyes routine (Netflix) there was a note from Grebenc: Hi Pepper, Yes, I’m in.
Here is her story:
 Andrea Grebenc: Serving as Chair of the HDSB during the pandemic. “As an experienced leader, dedicated community advocate, and lifelong resident of Burlington, I am thrilled to announce that I am seeking the Ontario Liberal Party nomination for the Burlington provincial riding. I invite you to join me in shaping a brighter future for this great city and Ontario.
“Burlington is more than just a place on the map—it’s where my father found refuge and where I grew up surrounded by the support and values that make this community truly unique. It’s where I’ve chosen to raise my family and invest in the future we all share. My commitment to serving Burlington has been unwavering, whether it’s through my role as a twice-elected School Board Trustee for the Halton District School Board, serving as Board Chair during the most challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, or stepping up to run for Halton Regional Chair in 2022, earning the trust and support of 20,000 voters.
“I believe in a Burlington where every resident has access to quality publicly-funded education, affordable housing, reliable publicly-funded healthcare, and efficient and effective transportation. I have been privileged to work alongside other community supporters on the City of Burlington’s Integrated Transportation Advisory Committee and as part of the Appleby Line Street Festival organizing committee. I feel honoured and humbled to have been recently recognized by Burlington’s SB Partners Chartered Accountants as a Burlington Community Champion. These experiences have only deepened my resolve to fight for policies that reflect the needs and aspirations of our community.
 Conferring with then HDSB Director of Education Stewart Miller “With experience in public speaking, debating, and media relations, and a track record of building strong relationships with local council members, provincial and federal politicians, and other community leaders, I am ready to be a strong voice for Burlington at Queen’s Park. My vision is grounded in practical solutions and guided by a passion for making a real difference in the lives of those around me.
“But I can’t do this alone. I need your support to secure the nomination and to build a campaign that truly represents the heart and spirit of Burlington. By joining the Ontario Liberal Party today at no cost and standing with me and trusting me with your vote at the soon-to-be-announced nomination meeting, you are choosing a candidate who understands the challenges we face and is committed to delivering results that matter.
“Together, let’s make Burlington an even better place to live, work, and raise our families. Let’s drive positive change, rooted in the values that have always made our community strong. Join me in this journey. Let’s build a future we can all be proud of.”
Oliver Parking announced his drive to seek the same nomination last Thursady.
A fair healthy nomination race is good for the democratic process and for the community at large.
For more information or to get involved in the Grebenc campaign:
Email: contact@andrea4burlington.ca
Phone: 905-510-4847
Website: https://Andrea4Burlington.ca
More on what Andrea Grebenc achieved when she was a school board trustee later.
By Staff
October 15th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
City Hall at its best.
A public holiday, great weather – and Spencer Smith Park is packed.
No surprises there.
 The tall structure is the Discovery Centre, to the left is Spencers restaurant. At the lower level, where the pond is located, there is a small shop that sells hot dogs and ice cream and soft drinks. It was apparently closed. Who is going to take responsibility for that decision? The surprise was that the public washrooms were closed.
The building that houses the washrooms closed. A notice advised that due to the holiday the building was closed.
Anne Marsden wrote the Ward Councillor and the Mayor (no surprise there) saying “We understand the reason City Hall washrooms are closed when City Hall is closed but why close the building that houses the public washrooms that are the only ones that serve Spencer Smith visitors?”
The building that houses the washrooms was closed. A notice advised that due to the holiday, the building was closed.
Indeed – why were the public washrooms closed?
By Pepper Parr
October 14th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington Residents Action Group (BRAG) ran a very short survey soliciting views on the heat pump program the city is currently running.
 A large heat pump – they come in various sizes – depending on the size of the house you have. Homeowners can now apply for an interest-free loan of up to $10,000 for the purchase and installation of an air-source heat pump. Application is done through the City’s Better Homes Burlington Pilot program. Homes that are more energy efficient use less energy, save the homeowner money, and produce fewer greenhouse gases.
This was a pilot program in 2023; there is reason to believe that the program will be carried forward.
 Results of a BRAG survey on the city Better Homes Heat Pump program. The data shown was captured during the first 24 hours to survey was available. City staff were available to act as a support for homeowners to assist in finding rebates and grants from businesses and different levels of government for the purpose of improving home energy efficiencies.
The connection to city staff is: burlington.ca/betterhomes or email betterhomes@burlington.ca.
The “Better Homes Burlington” pilot program opened in September 2023 and provides interest-free loans up to $10,000.
The federal “Canada Greener Homes Loan” program started in January of 2024 and provides interest-free loans up to $40,000.
The Better Homes Burlington pilot program opened in September 2023, and accepted applications until January 2024. In March 2024, Council voted to extend the Better Homes Burlington pilot program for an additional application cycle. Applications will be accepted until the end of December 2024, or until the program is fully subscribed, whichever comes first.
We were very surprised to learn that a member of Council applied for and was apparently accepted for the program. Bad enough that this Councillor no longer lives in the ward he represents – but now appears to be able to dip into a program in which the number of loan possibilities is limited. Most people think Council members are more than adequately paid.
The Canada Greener Homes Loan program is administered through CMHC and provides interest-free loans of up to $40,000, repayable over 10 years, to Canadians for the same kinds of retrofits eligible under the Greener Homes Grant program. This low-cost financing option for home retrofits results in energy cost savings for Canadians that can then be used to help repay the loan over a 10-year time period. To qualify for the Greener Homes Loan program, a mandatory pre and post-retrofit evaluation by an energy auditor has been and will continue to be a requirement under the program.
What did residents think of the city program ? Not that much.
The survey was posted on a number of platforms.
Click HERE if you want to take the survey
 By James Daniels
October 14th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
What exactly do people spend so much time doing on their phones?
While this might include you, it’s easy to feel as though a lot of time is being spent on smartphones without a clear objective. To be sure that this isn’t a generalization, check through your phone settings the amount of time that you spend looking at your own phone. These breakdowns often come with information on where your time is spent, but that’s not something that can be applied to everyone.
Understanding the most popular uses for smartphones across the board can lead to possibly a better utilization of your own device.
Social Media
 People have almost lost the art of conversation – they spend free time on their cell phone. The most common answer that you’re going to get to this question is social media. People are scrolling through their feeds, messaging their friends or watching videos – all examples of content that is designed to keep people engaged, hence the amount of time spent looking at phones. This content is even embedded within itself – social media streams containing short-form video feeds that are designed to keep users as firmly within the loop as possible.
Much of the time, it’s these off-shoots of the social media platform itself that can keep people engaged. A news story might be shared that generates a lot of discussion. Not only do people follow this link to learn about the story, but then, they go back and read the comments to hear people’s thoughts and maybe even offer their own – it all feeds back in on itself.
Downloaded Games
 If a person has some free time to kill they will often take out their cell phone a play a game. A lot of the time, you might find that what people are doing on their phones is simply killing time. This might be done through scrolling, of course, but it might also be through something more targeted – more intentionally distracting. Games fit the bill, and mobile gaming is at a point where there’s a whole slew of games to choose from.
Browsing your app store can show you just how many different games are available for you to download, but that might not even give you the full picture. Online casinos don’t even need to be downloaded to be accessed, providing an even wider array.
Business and Investing
Of course, when there’s money to be made, people’s attention is going to be grabbed. As is the case on smartphones, with investment experts and apps available for anyone to access, it’s much easier than ever for people to get into it. This might even be related to the news stories that are shared throughout social media, where people are drawn into stories of how they can make money through their phones and then look into the relevant apps to find out how.
 Cells phone are part of an office set up: land line, fax and a cell phone plus a laptop. Alternatively, it might be that whatever they do for work is accessed through their phone – be it work emails, intranet apps, or their own business platforms that they need to repeatedly pay attention to. While running your own business can lead to a freeing schedule, it can also mean that it’s difficult to ever leave behind.
By Pepper Parr
October 14th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
 Why is this house the center of an expensive legal battle between the owner and the City?
The demolition-renovation is said to have been issued by the City.
The matter went to the Committee of Adjustment where it was on the agenda and then removed from the agenda.
Settlement offers were on the table and then off the table.
Legal fees in the hundreds of thousands are reported to have been paid.
This is a messy one.
 By Staff
October 13th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Welcome to our first Burlington Residents’ Action Group (BRAG) newsletter!
 We at BRAG are grateful for everyone who has visited our website, signed up for our newsletter, passed the link to friends, donated, or provided us with feedback. We also appreciate those residents who have offered to help us with research and share valuable knowledge on particular topics of interest, as well as those who have written articles for our website.
Launching the group has involved a lot of work, and we are learning as we go, what works, what doesn’t, and where we can improve. Please continue to provide your feedback in the Contact section of the www.goBRAG.ca website. We want to represent the views of the community, even if those views don’t align with our own!
Our biggest project, right now, is the 2025 budget, as this is time-sensitive and happening now. BRAG had representatives at all of the mayor’s recent pre-budget meetings. We were disappointed by the low turnout at the meetings, as well as the sense we got that they weren’t really about engagement but rather “selling the narrative”. That fact, combined with the fact that the mayor has not released a draft version of the budget, might explain the low turnout, as people often don’t want to show up if they feel their input isn’t being heard. Our budget committee is preparing to review the detailed budget as soon as the city makes it available. Thank you to those residents who are helping with this.
We compared the quite different budget processes in Oakville and Burlington – spoiler alert: we prefer Oakville’s process! Click here to read the full article.
 Development is also a major concern for residents. We are watching the 2030 Caroline development with interest. The proposed 27-storey tower north of the Berkeley is receiving significant opposition from residents. Joan Little, of the Hamilton Spectator, reminds us of just how far back, at least to 2010, this whole saga goes in her recent article. Click here to read more.
Speaking of development, BRAG’s Stephen White wrote about the city’s “lovely dashboard to monitor the construction of housing units” and the committee to oversee it. Stephen notes “the housing problem in this community is seriously awry, and the problem has nothing to do with addition or counting.” Click here to read the full article.
 There’s plenty more on our website, we hope you visit often and comment on the articles.
Upcoming topics will include the city’s study on revising ward boundaries and adding additional council members. We’ll also look at how strong mayor powers are relevant to this issue. Once we see a budget there will be articles and surveys to help understand what services are important to residents.
Speaking of surveys, please take a moment to answer our first BRAG survey: Click here to fill out the survey, it will take a minute or two.
Thank you for reading our first newsletter. Please share this with your Burlington friends and family.
Wishing you all a healthy and happy Thanksgiving!
BRAG is the only city wide operational community group – they need all the support you can give them.
 By Staff
October 14th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Don’t miss the October 19th Take Action Day.
Join BurlingtonGreen and our event partners at the Burlington Centre (mall) on Saturday, October 19th from 10 am to 4 pm for this FREE event featuring a variety of opportunities to take ACTION for the environment.
By Staff
October 12th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
This from a federal government department.
 Exciting news: Tuesday is the day Canada Carbon rebate goes out, and this is one of the largest ever!
While the “carbon tax” gets a lot of negative attention, the rebate is good news for everyone.
For an Ontario family of 4 the estimated quarterly payment is estimated at $280.00
The total payment (4 quarterly payments) from April 2024 to January 2025 is estimated at $1120.00
But that’s not all:
-
The government is doubling the top-up for rural residents from 10% to 20%.
-
This is the first time, Canadians living outside major cities are getting double the rural supplement: – not only did we double the Rural Top-Up, but we are double-doubling the Rural Top-Up cheques to cover April and July payments.
The new Canada Carbon Rebate for Small Businesses has been announced and will deliver over $2.5 billion to about 600,000 Canadian businesses before the end of this year (December 16th if registered for direct deposit and December 31st if receiving payment by cheque).
In Ontario, $509.3 million are going to be returned to small and medium sized businesses for 2023-2024
It is $146.00 per employee for the Canada Carbon Rebate for small businesses
And finally, all major financial institutions will now start to clearly identify quarterly direct deposits of carbon tax rebate as the “Canada Carbon Rebate”.
The Government is taking real action to both fight climate change and put more money back in the pockets of middle-class Canadians.
Pierre Poilievre likes to talk and repeat “Axe the tax”, but he will never talk about the rebates, which keep getting bigger and bigger.
Ontarians need to know more about this.
By Pepper Parr
October 12th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Jack Ammendolia, Managing Partner with Watson and Associates did his presentation and said I “want to provide a little bit of context and education to Council today. Throughout this review, we’re trying to answer some key questions, both through the consultant team, for council and for the public. Ultimately, we’re trying to answer a very big question:
“How does the existing electoral arrangement in Burlington serve both Council and the public?
“Right now, there’s a principle in the City of Burlington, that all local councillors are also regional councillors. Is that a principle council and public wants to maintain, or is that something that we want to see a change?
 The growth of the city and the size of City Council at different times. “Fast forward 2021 population of about 187,000 still the same number of wards as 2005: that’s the question that we’re trying to answer: does that still make sense?
We have looked at some significant changes in terms of future growth, and again, we’re trying to understand, does this still make sense?
 “There is a big public component to this” said Ammendolia. “There’s a research component, there are experiences that the consultant team has had from work done in other places. There are things that we hear from Council and staff. We now want to hear from the public.
 “There’s also a big online engagement component.
“Informational videos, things like discussion papers that are split into small chunks, so that if you don’t want to know everything about Ward boundaries, but only maybe Council size, or maybe only the guiding principles, you can go and find that information. There are quizzes, there are surveys. So we’re really trying to make sure that the engagement that we’re doing is accessible in different mediums, accessible to different people across the city, accessible to different age groups across the city.”
Public engagement didn’t get off to a very strong start. A meeting was scheduled for the evening of the presentation to Council. Someone doesn’t know very much about how the people of Burlington responds to meeting opportunities.
Three people attended the first meeting.
Ammendolia, added: “Some of the particulars with regard to some of our preliminary observations on the City of Burlington, but maybe a little bit of high level context to how we do these engage or how we do these Council composition and Ward boundary reviews.
 Wards five and six need a revision – the question is to what? Keep in mind this data uses the current population size. Huge changes are going to take place in ward 5 – assuming the developments in the pipeline are ever built.  Jack Ammendolia, Managing Partner Watson and Associates “The legislation is vague. There’s not a lot in the municipal act that directs the council how to do award boundary review or when to do a board boundary review. It’s pretty vague. Really.
“What the municipal Act says is that councils have to be a minimum size of five. One of those five has to be the mayor elected at large, and then outside of that, council has a lot of purview and what they want their council to look like.
“You can go as big as you want, within reason; we know what happened in Toronto when they went big. The provincial government stepped in and reduced it.
“There is nothing in the legislation. There are no criteria. There are no guidelines that say, if you have a population of x, this is how big your council should be.
“It can be by wards like Burlington is or it could be at large. It could be a combination of at large and at wards. Again, it’s really to the purview of Council, what you want that to look like.
“An important component here is size and composition of Council. That is not something that’s appealable. So whatever Council, again, outside of the government stepping in, the decision Council makes is not appealable.
“When you get into actually deciding if you have a ward system and what those wards look like, then that is something that is appealable to the Ontario Land Tribunal; that’s an important distinction between the other components of what we’re looking at.
“The wards are appealable really quickly.
“A couple of last points on the municipal Act. Something that is consistent for every municipality in Ontario is when you have the day the election, that date has been set and set for all municipalities the term of office. Every Council has a maximum term of office, and that’s the same again across Ontario. Who is eligible to run is the same across Ontario, and how your city and your clerks count the ballots, that’s the same across Ontario.
“The next election is October 26, 2026: any decision that Council makes with regard to composition, size or award boundaries, has to be made before December, 31 2025 – it has to be made before the end of the year.
“We try to get these things done before June to allow any room for appeal.
“Representation by population; wards should have an equal number of residents, Councillors should have an equal number of constituents in their ward.
“The other big one is respecting communities of interest. So not only is it a population exercise or a technical exercise, but we want to ensure that communities of interest that wards have connected communities like minded interests within that ward.
“The other one is we want to make sure that the ward boundaries are coherent. So as much as we can use natural features, large arterial arterial roads, man made features, rail lines, those types of things that helps with recognition, recognition of the word.
“The population according to the 2021 census, about 187,000 seen about 6% population growth over that last decade.
 “If we look at the two maps shown below, anywhere that you see green, those wards have a greater population than 35,000, the yellow is less than 27 and a half 1000. The bluish colors between 27 and 30 so you can see that already, depending on geography, really, on what side of the city you’re at, you have some wards are much greater in population, some less.
“And we’ll look at this in more detail in a second. The map on the right just shows the growth that’s occurred over the last 10 years as well. What we really don’t want to see is wards that are already overpopulation and continuing to grow, like Ward six on the map.
“It highlights some of those points I just made the legend at the bottom. Anywhere you see a green you’re within 5% of the ideal population of a ward. So that’s your population divided by six. Anywhere you see that pink color, you’re within the acceptable 15% range, knowing that we it’s very tough to get perfect parity while balancing the other principles, and anywhere you see the dark red that is outside of that population range, so you have three wards that are currently outside that acceptable 15% population range.
“To us, that’s an issue that we have to try to rectify through this review, we go to the last, or next couple of slides.
“The other big component of this that I mentioned is composition, and looking at the size of Council. Right now you have six councilors acting as both local councilors as well as regional councilors.
“This table shows the different populations different geographic areas, but it shows you the total number of councilors in each of those places. And if you look at Burlington, you have about 27,000 people per councilor right now, or per Ward population. That compares to the average of the four municipalities around 15,000 so much higher. Milton and Oakville are right around the same, at about a little over 14,000 Halton Hills, quite a bit lower, at just under 5000 so again, we have to ask that question, does that number still make sense for Burlington today, considering your population and community change?
“Is Burlington’s Council unique? It’s not unique in the sense that it’s the only one, but it’s unique that there aren’t a lot of examples like this, where you have six councilors plus the mayor that are one governing body for the city. You have six councilors plus the mayor that are the entire governing body. The mayor has also assigned responsibilities to all the councilors through a deputy mayor portfolio and councilor members also serve on many local and regional agencies, committees and boards.
“That’s a summary of where we’re at in terms of a quick look. We spent the summer and early fall researching, starting to talk to staff and some council members as well. We will embark on the first round of public engagement over the fall of 2024 – that’s really our focus; listening, gathering feedback, and then coming up with alternatives.
 “We’ll come back to council late winter of 2024 before the end of the year, with some perspectives and recommendations on composition. Our recommendations , along with the feedback that we receive is what we will use as we embark on the last phase of the study in the in the New Year.
“I’ll stop there and see if there are any questions.”
That is when things got interesting. Tomorrow we will report on the to and fro members of Council went through – some of the statements were mind-boggling.
Next public meetings:
Tuesday, Oct. 15 – 7 to 8:30 p.m., virtual public meeting
Wednesday, Oct. 23 – 7 to 8:30 p.m., Haber Community Centre, 3040 Tim Dobbie Dr.
By Pepper Parr
October 10th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
There is not much more than confusion and a constant state of bickering between the political parties in Ottawa. The Conservatives desperately want an election – tomorrow if they could have their way. To pull the plug now would result in an election weeks before Christmas – which no one wants.
The Liberals seem to have taken the position to just wait it out and be ready to campaign in June of 2025.
 Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre The hope is that Pierre Poilievre will continue to blow his brains out and that the economy will turn taking some of the pressure off the Liberals.
Good luck to all of them.
Locally – it’s a tense game.
There are three potential candidates for the Conservative nomination.
 Emily Brown who has every right to expect to be given the nod from Burlington PC members. She has earned it but she is sweating this one
Newcomer Connor Fraser is out doing everything he can to get in front of people.
 Shaheryar Mian Shaheryar Mian tells people he is out knocking on doors – we’ve yet to hear of anyone who has seen him as their doorstep.
The Gazette is trying to interview – so far – no response. Not a good sign.
The rules of the game for the local Conservative Association is that anyone seeking the nomination can sign up new members – there are qualifications. Must live in the constituency.
 Connor Fraser campaigning during Appleby Line Festival The federal Conservative Association will at some point advise each constituency that they have 48 hours after which they must close off the accepting of new members to the local association.
At that point those seeking the nomination will have to register the people that have recruited as new members.
The fear is that Shaheryar Mian will dump hundreds of new members and be in a position to win the nomination when it comes to a vote.
Things are a little tense with local Conservatives.
By Staff
October 10th, 2024
BURLINGTON,ON
 Oliver Parker Oliver PaArker announced Thursday, October 10th in Downtown Burlington, alongside friends, family, neighbors, and supporters that he was going to seek the Liberal nomination for the Burlington seat at Queen’s Park.
“Burlington should be a city within reach. A place where you can build a life and put down lasting roots. A community where affordable housing is a reality, schools are safe and nurturing for your children, and opportunities allow you to earn a living that lets you get ahead” said Oliver Parker
- Oliver Parker is the first candidate to publicly enter this nomination.
- Oliver and his family have lived in Burlington for over 20 years
- Oliver holds a Masters in Economics and is currently completing a PhD at Queen’s University Belfast, United Kingdom.
- A civil servant with the federal government, Oliver is a labour economist, with experience across several private and public organizations, including S&P Ratings and the Government.
- Oliver speaks three languages, English, French and
About the Nomination Contest:
- Only Ontario Liberal Party members registered before the nomination cut-off date, which is to be determined, will be eligible to vote in the nomination.
 Andrea Grebenc, former chair of the school board might yet decide to seek the Liberal nomination. Many thought that Andrea Grenbenc would seek the nomination. There is no word at this point on what her plans are.
Natalie Pierre, the current MPP has not made much of an impression on the voters. She was very big on photo-ops.
The Progressive Conservatives will put up quite a fight to keep the seat.
By Staff
October 10th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
From the Washington Post.
It’s our planet – are we paying attention?
Scientists have long hoped that if temperatures go above global targets, the planet could cool back down. New research suggests this could be more dangerous than originally thought. (JSC/NASA/NASA)
For years, scientists and world leaders have pinned their hopes for the future on a hazy promise — that, even if temperatures soar far above global targets, the planet can eventually be cooled back down.
This phenomenon, known as a temperature “overshoot,” has been baked into most climate models and plans for the future. In theory, even if global warming reaches the dreaded 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) above preindustrial temperatures, it could be brought back down by pulling carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere.
 Scientists have long hoped that if temperatures go above global targets, the planet could cool back down. New research suggests this could be more dangerous than originally thought. (JSC/NASA/NASA) For example, for every 10 years Earth’s temperature remains 1.5 degrees C above preindustrial levels, the researchers calculated, sea level will rise by about 4 centimeters, or 1.6 inches. Even a small increase in sea-level rise can lead to more dangerous flooding when hurricanes and heavy rains strike. (In Florida, which is currently facing the danger of Hurricane Milton, sea levels are already 8 inches higher than they were in 1950.)
And as the planet teeters closer to that temperature limit, overshoot is looking more and more likely.
“A 1-in-10 chance of an existential threat is not small,” Joeri Rogelj, a professor of climate science at Imperial College London and one of the authors of the new paper, said on a phone call with reporters on Tuesday.
Since the Paris agreement, world leaders have promised to attempt to hold the global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees C. That target has stayed in place, even as countries have failed to limit fossil fuel burning: Carbon dioxide concentrations in the atmosphere are rising at a record pace, according to observations in March at Hawaii’s Mauna Loa Observatory.
But in a special United Nations report in 2018, scientists and climate modelers popularized a controversial idea: that nations could “overshoot” the target temporarily, and then bring temperatures back down in the future.
By using techniques like direct air capture or other forms of sucking carbon out of the atmosphere, scientists said, countries could cool the Earth back down even if the planet has already reached 1.6 C or 1.7 C above preindustrial levels.
In recent years, as emissions have continued to climb, the idea of “overshooting” climate targets hasn’t just become popular — it’s now essential to reach the world’s most famous climate goal.
“Emissions reductions haven’t happened as planned,” said Glen Peters, a senior researcher at the Center for International Climate Research in Norway who was not involved in the new study. “So if you still want to get to 1.5 degrees, you need overshoot.”
Last year, The Washington Post analyzed 1,200 pathways to 1.5 degrees C, and found that there were no pathways with “reasonable” assumptions about technological development that didn’t include some kind of overshoot.
But scientists have begun to warn that flying past our climate goals and then returning to them isn’t the same as meeting them in the first place.
In the new study, the authors warn that sea-level rise and melting permafrost may be irreversible for hundreds, if not thousands of years, even if temperatures later come back down. The extinction of species that could result from these massive planetary shifts, they added, are also not reversible.
“Excess deaths are not reversible,” said Rogelj. “If you have a couple of decades in which large proportions of vulnerable people are exposed to extreme heat in a society that is not adapted to this — that’s not reversible.”
Other recent papers have shown that catastrophic tipping points are more likely for each increment above 1.5 degrees C. In a study released in Nature Communications in August, researchers found that every tenth of a degree above that threshold increased the likelihood of triggering tipping points — like the Amazon rainforest transforming into a dry savanna or the collapse of the Atlantic Ocean circulation system — by 1 to 1.5 percent.
At the same time, scientists warn that cooling the planet might not even be technically feasible. The tools to pull carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere and reverse warming have not been deployed at a large scale. At the moment, companies pull about 2 million tons of CO2 out of the air every year — but that number would need to be increased by a factor of 1,000 in just the next few decades.
And future generations may not even be motivated to do so. Oliver Geden, a senior fellow at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs, says that once the world warms more than 1.5 degrees C, countries may not want to spend the money and energy to bring temperatures back down. “We’re in a world that does not even manage to bring emissions down now,” he said.
One thing, scientists say, is clear: Humanity is headed for a world with more than 1.5 degrees C of warming. The planet has already experienced a 12-month period during which temperatures exceeded that limit, and by the early 2030s, it will be above that mark for multiple years at a time — which is what matters under the text of the Paris agreement.
Overshoot is a way of softening that blow, of making it seem like the world’s climate target is still within reach. But sooner or later, world leaders will have to wrestle with the fact that the most famous climate goal is impossible to meet.
Geden says that many scientists accept that the world will go beyond 1.5 degrees C. “But,” he added, “nobody can decide what the next target will be.”
 By Staff
October 10, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Hard to imagine what it would be like to go Trick or Treating through the two levels of Mapleview Shopping Centre but the folks over there want you to at least drop by on Wednesday, October 30, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
 Guests are invited to don their spooky, silly and most magical costumes for a trick-or-treat adventure throughout the centre at participating retailers.
Mapleview’s Halloween event will also feature new immersive AI photo booths featuring spooky backdrops to capture bewitching snapshots. The photo booths will open at 5 p.m. and can be found on the Upper Level near the food court, as well as in the North Wing near Sporting Life. Participating guests will receive one complimentary 4×6 photo printout to take home, or a digital copy sent via email or text.
“We’re delighted to host families and the community for a special spook-tacular Halloween at Mapleview Centre!” said Rita Donnelly, General Manager, Mapleview. “This annual event provides an indoor setting where guests can enjoy trick-or-treating and capture memorable moments with friends and family ahead of Halloween.”
Participating retailers will display Trick-or-Treat posters in their store windows, and will hand out candy until supplies last. Guests are asked to visit and collect candy from a participating retailer once, and bring their own Halloween buckets or bags.
 Loads of parking.
 By Staff
October 10th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
It might be a little early – we haven’t experienced Halloween yet but the idea is a good one.
The Burlington Downtown Business Association (BDBA) is inviting children ages 12 and under, from all across Burlington, to creatively show us what the holidays mean to them. In support of the Burlington Downtown Gift Card program, we are proudly launching for the second year:
What it Means: The Children’s Holiday Art Contest!
 They are asking young and talented community to draw what the holidays mean to them and what makes it oh-so-special. Gathering with friends and family, helping to prepare a traditional holiday meal, skating & hot chocolate, the first snowfall of the year or the annual family car ride to look at the twinkling lights…..whatever makes their little hearts soar, we want to see it!
The winning design will be featured as part of the gift card holiday packaging for the Burlington Downtown Gift Card Program starting November 20th through December 31st.
The winning family will receive a $250.00 Burlington Downtown Gift Card and have the opportunity to be featured in our supporting marketing material.
This is YOUR chance to preserve those special holiday moments as seen through a child’s eyes. Indulge the magic of the season while supporting your local downtown business community, what could be merrier?
Ready to get creative? Click here to download the art template. The deadline for submission is November 5th, 2024.
*conditions apply, see blog for full contest rules and regulations.
Ready to get creative? Click here to download the art template. The deadline for submission is November 5th, 2024.
By Julieta Belen Correa
October 10th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
In the heart of Burlington, casinos are undergoing a transformation with exciting new thematic concepts. These changes are set to attract a diverse crowd, enhancing the gaming experience for locals and visitors alike. As these establishments develop, they aim to offer more than just traditional gambling entertainment.
Exploring the innovations in Burlington’s casinos
 Rendering of a thematic theme When you step into Burlington’s casinos today, you’re greeted by a realm of innovation and creativity. Thematic designs have breathed new life into these establishments, offering an immersive experience that captivates the senses. With each casino embracing unique themes, from the opulence of ancient civilizations to futuristic fantasies, there’s something for everyone. Online platforms such as Tooniebet Casino stand as a prime example of this trend, showcasing how thoughtful design can transform an online gaming platform into a space worth visiting. The emphasis on themes on platforms and in games such as the ones available on Tooniebet not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also creates a more engaging atmosphere for patrons.
The impact of thematic designs on local entertainment
As thematic designs become integral to online casinos such as Tooniebet, you might wonder about their broader impact on local entertainment. By incorporating diverse themes, these venues are redefining what it means to enjoy a night out. While traditional games remain a staple, the added layer of themed environments encourages exploration and repeat visits. This development is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating memorable experiences that resonate with the community and visitors alike.
 A Canadian coin – known as a Twoonie to everyone Moreover, themed designs can lead to collaborations with local artists and performers, further enriching Burlington’s cultural landscape.
Why thematic casinos matter to you
For those interested in the local economy, the shift to themed casinos is particularly noteworthy. As these establishments innovate, they attract tourists and gaming enthusiasts from outside the area. This influx can boost local businesses and create job opportunities within Burlington. Additionally, themed casinos often host special events and promotions aligned with their distinctive settings, providing more reasons for you to visit. This transformation also signals an increase in competition among casinos, both online ones such as Tooniebet, and physical local venues, pushing each venue to offer superior experiences and services.
The future of gaming in Burlington
Looking ahead, the prospects for gaming in Burlington appear promising with these innovative changes. Casinos adopting thematic designs are setting new standards for entertainment in the city. By continuously updating their themes and offerings, they keep the experience fresh and exciting for regulars and newcomers alike. As technology advances, you can expect even more immersive experiences incorporating virtual reality or interactive elements. Ultimately, these developments ensure that Burlington remains a vibrant hub for entertainment, drawing visitors who seek both excitement and novelty.
By Pepper Parr
October 9th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
November the 5th is going to be a busy day for those who have concerns about the developments taking place in their community.
 Eight towers in a single development that will be constructed in phases The Oval Court development has scheduled a Statutory meeting for 9:30 on the 5th and there is a Statutory meeting for the 2030 Caroline development scheduled for the same day.
 The 2030 Caroline development is the last of three parts. The building on the north end was to be a six to eight story tower that is now a 28 story tower. Ward 4 Councillor Lisa Kearns is pushing to have the 2030 Caroline meeting held in the evening – nothing final on that push
The Oval Court development is huge – eight towers to be developed in seven phases – it will become a construction site for as much as a decade.
The third Statutory meeting on November 5th is related to the Stonehedge development in ward 5.
Statutory Public Meeting and Recommendation Report
November 5, 2024; 9:30a.m.
Virtual Meeting held in hybrid model
Application for Draft Plan of Subdivision to create 12 lots/blocks, 10 lots to accommodate single detached dwellings, a block to accommodate 8 street townhomes and a block to create a private ownership roadway.
 The Branthaven Oval Court development
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By Staff
