 By Staff
March 16th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
To protect the public and City staff and to help minimize the spread of COVID-19 virus, all City facilities including City Hall will be closed to public access effective Monday, March 16 to Sunday, April 5.
Essential services will continue to operate as usual to support our community. Cemetery services will be by appointment.
Service Burlington will continue to operate via phone 905-335-7600 and email city@burlington.ca
We encourage residents reach out if they have questions. Residents can also access services using the City of Burlington mobile app.
A drop box outside of City Hall is available to drop off documents.
Residents are encouraged to delay any non-essential business or to consider conducting business online or by phone, where possible.
Meetings with City staff where appropriate can be setup on a case by case basis and will require a health screening process in keeping with established public health guidelines.
While Mayor Meed Ward has not yet declared an official emergency on COVID-19,
Burlington’s Crisis Management Team (CMT) has now fully activated the City of Burlington Emergency Response Plan at a Level 2.
This decision made today by the CMT, in close consultation with the Mayor, enables a more rapid response to dedicating specific resources to prevention and containment of the virus.
City buildings closed to general public access effective March 16 include:
City Hall (phone/online/drop box still available)
Roads, Parks and Forestry
Burlington Transit – Transit Operations Centre
Animal Shelter
City offices in SIMs Square office building (390 Brant Street)
414 Locust Street offices
Burlington Fire Headquarters and all stations
Residents are encouraged to delay any non-essential business or to consider conducting business online or by phone, where possible. Meetings with City staff where appropriate can be setup on a case by case basis and will require a health screening process in keeping with established public health guidelines.
All Burlington Citizen Advisory Committee meetings have been cancelled until April 5, 2020.
The following meetings are cancelled:
March 18 – Agricultural and Rural Affairs Advisory Committee
March 18 – Sustainable Development Advisory Committee
March 23 – Seniors Advisory Committee
March 23 – Committee of Adjustment
March 23 – Integrated Transportation Advisory Committee
March 27 – Inclusivity Advisory Committee
March 31 – Council Workshop
March 31 – Cycling Advisory Committee
April 1 – Mayor’s Millennial Committee
April 1 – Mundialization Committee
City staff are reviewing options related to the upcoming March 30 Burlington City Council meeting, as there are time sensitive matters that may require Council resolution. The City of Burlington is looking into how the meeting may be conducted and will be provide an update closer to the meeting date.
For further information and updates, the City has launched the webpage burlington.ca/coronavirus
Mayor Marianne Meed Ward
“Our first priority is ensuring public health and safety, and the safety of our staff who engage with the public. We are looking at options to ensure residents can still be served without physical attendance at City Hall. As a result, we are expecting a higher than usual call volume and we are redeploying staff to assist, but we would ask for your patience and understanding in these times.
Our decisions are not taken lightly, as we realize the impact they have on our community, but they are done in an effort to do our part to ‘flatten the curve’ and slow down the spread of COVID-19.
Quick Facts
• Contact Halton Region Public Health by calling 311, 905-825-6000 or toll free at 1-866-442-5866 if you have a fever OR cough OR breathing difficulty AND any of the following:
o travelled outside of Canada in the 14 days before onset of illness; or
o close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19; or
o close contact with a person with acute respiratory illness who traveled to affected areas within 14 days prior to their illness onset.
By Pepper Parr
March 15th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
We had asked the Halton Regional Health office for some detail on just what happens when a person thinks they may have contracted the CORVID19 virus.
They were unable to get back to us before the close of business on Friday but someone over here is working on the weekend.
Our questions and the answers they provided are set out below:
Who decides if a resident should be tested for COVID-19?
• Coronavirus infections are diagnosed by a health care provider based on symptoms, clinical history and laboratory tests. Travel history is also important. There is a specific test for COVID-19 to confirm the infection if it is suspected.
• Testing is arranged by health care professionals, in collaboration with local public health.
2. What does testing involve?
• Testing involves a swab of the nose or throat (sometimes both) and is sent by health care professionals to the Public Health Ontario Laboratory in Toronto.
3. Where does the testing take place?
• Testing is being conducted at the Public Health Ontario Laboratory in Toronto, which is working collaboratively with the National Microbiology Laboratory in Winnipeg.
Additional laboratory testing sites are also being set up across the province. For more information, please see this Province of Ontario news release.
We have since leaned through other sources that the COVID19 test is no small matter.
The people doing the testing are said to be at great personal risk. They have to wear protective suits that includes a mask and a plastic head piece. The room the testing is done in has to be scrubbed down. The testing takes time and eats into the hospital resources.
There is not enough in the way of capacity to do all the testing – and the data we have available suggests that the full measure of the wave of people infected has yet to reach us.
An interesting link to the rate at which the virus is spreading is HERE
The link to live data tells us that the number of people being infected is still climbing.
We are in a very necessary phase of the COVID19 battle. It will pass – when – that is what we don’t know. What we do know is that there are ways to slow down the spread of the virus. Wash out hands frequently and limit the people you meet with and keep some distance between people you do meet with.
I had dinner with a friend in the middle of the week and followed up that event with a note saying with should do this more often – he responded – “see you on the other side of COVID 19”.
Be sensible – be careful and remember we are all in this together.
By Staff
March 15th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Ron Danielsen President, Friends of Freeman Station announced yesterday that : “In order to help contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus, and as advised by Health Authorities, Freeman Station is closed until further notice.
“All bookings, meetings, and work at the station are cancelled.
‘We will evaluate the situation again on April 15th, and decide on further action at that time.”
 One of the most delightful destinations in the city. Freeman Station – it exists because citizens made it happen.
By Staff
March 15th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Aldershot resident Tom Muir found a web site that is a “goldmine” for the information junkies.
Click here for a link. Use the search box in the upper right hand corner to find Canadian data instantly.
Betting dollars to donuts that Ward 2 Councillor Lisa Kearns, a policy wonk of some renown will be mining this data collection.
 The information junkies will spend hours on this stuff
By Brian Dean
March 15th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
During this time of uncertainty, most agree that the local economy will be weighed down by the impact of COVID-19. The impacts on small businesses and independents can be particularly heavy as we practice social distancing.
 Dozens of little gems – worth popping into. Small businesses are by nature risk takers. They choose to invest in our community and our neighbourhoods with the hope that the community will give back to them with the same vigor. These are the entrepreneurs that hire our children, sponsor our sports teams and community groups – they are your neighbours.
Our local businesses in Burlington enrich our community daily and are the lifeblood of our sustainable local economy. In the case of our Downtown independent businesses, they are often the people you know by name. We celebrate when these local names succeed and regret when they are forced to close their doors.
 The Downtown needs feet on the streets – being outdoors is not a COVID19 issue. Shopping locally during this challenging time for Burlington business is more than a “good idea” it is a necessity to help keep these small businesses flourishing.
The largest collection of independent businesses in our City is Downtown; a dynamic collection of over 400 unique entrepreneurs. For many of these businesses their success relies on the personalized connections they have made with their patrons.
As our community makes a conscious effort to reduce close contact with others during this challenging time there is an instinct to find a “one-stop shopping” solution for our everyday needs. This tactic tends to overlook the incredible value that comes from patronizing your favourite, neighbourhood independent business.
 Overlooking the lake is one of the safest places you can be. Our small business community has proven to be a resilient and adaptable group that champions innovation. Now it is the Burlington public’s turn to create innovative ways to support them with many products & essentials available at our local merchants.
Here are ways to support small businesses:
Buy meals from local restaurants for delivery or takeout
Shop small businesses online
Use shipping, door-to-door and delivery services available
Purchase coffee grounds from your local coffee shop
Pick up bread or baked goods from your local bakery
Consider purchasing gift cards for future use – they’ll receive the revenue now while foot traffic is down and you’ll have something to look forward to!
Share, tweet, post about your favourite small business – let’s spread some positivity!
Purchase your personal items, shampoo, soaps, face wash, creams etc. from local businesses instead of busy box stores
Don’t cancel appointments, reschedule if possible
By Staff
March 14th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
In light of recent developments in the region with respect to COVID-19, the Halton Regional Police Service is revising their call taking procedures.
Effective immediately, if you are calling our Service through either the non-emergency number, or via 9-1-1, you will be asked a series of strategic screening questions so that we can better assess the risk of potential exposure to COVID-19.
 911 operator at information console These screening questions, informed and guided by Public Health, will ensure that our officers are donning the appropriate personal protective equipment (incl. gloves and masks). This is for the protection of our frontline officers, as well as the protection of those we serve.
We urge members of our community to continue to use our non-emergency line and 9-1-1 line appropriately. Additionally, we wish to remind residents that for general information regarding programs and services offered by the Region of Halton, they may call 3-1-1.
By Staff
March 13th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
After first deciding to keep the doors open the Burlington Performing Arts Centre will be following the guidelines recommended by our provincial, municipal, and cultural partners to suspend all Main Theatre events and regular box office hours of operation until Monday, April 6th.
 Main Theater closed – Community Theater will be open. Ontario’s chief medical officer of health is recommending the immediate suspension of all large events and public gatherings of over 250 people due to COVID-19. The Canadian Arts Presenting Association (CAPACOA) is encouraging venues to temporarily suspend ‘final ticket sale’ policies and asking patrons who may be feeling ill to stay home. Our partners at the City of Burlington have elected to close facilities and cancel services for a 3-week period.
In an effort to contain the spread of the virus, BPAC will be suspending all events in the Main Theatre for the remainder of our 19/20 Presents season, and all rental events in the Main Theatre, as well as regular box office operations, until Monday, April 6th. The box office will continue to operate through phone and email communication.
The following upcoming events have been cancelled:
• Bay City Rollers – TUE MAR 17
• May The Force Be With You – THU APR 2
• The Dreamboats – FRI APR 3
• Burlington Teen Tour Band – SUN APR 5
• Cirque Eloize: Hotel – FRI APR 10 & SAT APR 11
Tickets purchased online for these events will receive automatic refunds online. Tickets purchased by visiting the BPAC Box Office in person or over the phone will be refunded by Box Office staff.
Performances in our 160-seat Community Studio Theatre will go ahead as scheduled as we continue to assess the situation on a daily basis. The Box Office and Lobby will be open 1-hour prior to the following events:
• Old Man Flanagan’s Ghost – TUE MAR 17, 7:30pm
• Kevin Fox: Songs for Cello & Voice – SAT MAR 21, 7:30pm
• Elise LeGrow – SUN MAR 22, 7pm
If you have recently traveled or if you feel any symptoms of a cold or flu, we ask that you do not attend. Please stay at home and contact the Box Office for a full refund.
The safety and comfort of our patrons, volunteers, artists, and staff are of utmost importance. We are making sure that our staff and volunteers are well aware of hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette, we are installing hand sanitizing stations at our entrances, and focusing on keeping our venue clean and sanitary. Even so, we assure all patrons that nobody will be expected to attend these events if you are not comfortable to do so, and a full refund will be issued to you.
Box Office Information
Phone: 905.681.6000
The Burlington Performing Arts Centre
440 Locust Street,
Burlington, ON, L7S 1T7
By Staff
March 13th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Conservation Halton has made the difficult but necessary decision to close a number of their park operations.
Conservation Halton Administration’s Office will be closed to the public but will continue to operate through phone and email communications. We will also continue to receive deliveries and accept well water samples.
Mountsberg will be closed and Maple Town, as a result, will also be closed for the remainder of the season.
 The walkway will be closed at Crawford lake. Crawford Lake will be open, with trail access, but the Longhouse Village will be closed for the immediate future and Sweet Water Season will be closed for the remainder of the season.
 You will be able to walk the trail Rattlesnake Point, Hilton Falls, Mount Nemo and Robert Edmondson will remain open, with trail access, but facilities, such as visitor centres, indoor washrooms, gift shops and food services, will be closed for the immediate future, so visitors are encouraged to plan ahead.
Glen Eden will be closed for the remainder of the season.
“We understand the importance of access to nature for community health and wellness, so we have worked to keep as many of the trails as possible open for public access,” said Hassaan Basit, Chief Administrative Officer. “With so many of our industry partners closing to reduce the spread of COVID-19, we feel it is our responsibility to support these efforts.”
“Conservation Halton will look to reassess park operations on April 6.”
You can find more information and updates on park closures at conservationhalton.ca
 By Staff
March 13th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Earlier today, the City of Burlington activated its Crisis Management Team (CMT) to coordinate City efforts to protect public and staff from the spread of COVID-19, while maintaining essential City services to the community.
To aid efforts in reducing the spread of the COVID-19 virus in the community, the City of Burlington has made the decision to close all City recreation facilities for a minimum of three weeks, as of this evening.
With the recreation facility closures, the following services will be suspended: March Break programming, arenas, pools and community centres, including the Seniors Centre.
All City organized large public meetings and gatherings are also cancelled, with the exception of Committee and Council meetings at City Hall.
The CMT will be reviewing internal City meeting guidelines and issuing an update on Monday, March 16. City Hall will remain open for business with enhanced health and safety protocols for staff.
 Mayor Marianne Meed Ward Mayor Marianne Meed Ward said: “In light of the current situation with COVID-19 and the rapidly changing updates from healthcare professionals and our partners across all levels of government, I certainly understand and share the concerns of residents related to attending programs and events at City facilities.
“We are evaluating things daily — and sometimes multiple times during the day — and will always put residents’ health and safety first. The decision to close City recreation facilities for next three weeks and cancel programs including March Break, does not come lightly, but in meeting with our Crisis Management Team, we feel it is a necessary one. Please continue to look after your health, follow the advice of healthcare professionals and support one another. Let’s always be our best through these trying times.”
 Tim Commisso, City Manager Tim Commisso, City Manager added: “At the City of Burlington, we understand the decision to close recreational facilities will have a significant impact on individuals, families and communities.
“We are also very aware that this needs to be done as a precaution to help keep people in Burlington stay safe and aid in containing the spread of COVID-19. We continue to work closely with Halton Region Public Health and make our decisions based on the latest scientific evidence on COVID-19. We thank our residents for their understanding as we continue to address this challenge together. We will continue to share City updates daily with the public.”
By Pepper Parr
March 13th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
BREAKING NEWS: At noon: 20 more cases confirmed in Ontario, taking the provincial total to 79.
The Pandemic, something we have not seen in more than 100 years, is upon us.
The biggest tool we have going for us is our own individual behavior.
 Individual protective measures are the strongest tool we have at this point. Take care of yourself. Our different levels of government have the job of keeping us informed.
This is a manageable situation. Letting any sense of panic prevail is the worst thing we can do. There is plenty of toilet paper inventory.
Watch for and pay attention to the latest health, safety, and cleanliness protocols to protect yourself.
The evidence seems to suggest that the more vulnerable are at the highest risk. Older people with existing health problems are going to need extra help. Determine who those people are in your life and make time for them.
At this point our biggest problem for many households is what they are going to do with the kids with schools closed for the next three weeks.
And at the same time – taking care of yourselves.
Limit the time you spend with large groups. Ontario’s chief medical officer Dr. David Williams says to “avoid all non-essential travel outside of Canada” and the “immediate suspension” of all gatherings over 250 people because of the risks of coronavirus.
Wash your hands – often!
- Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.
- Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. …
- Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. …
- Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
By Staff
March 13th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
When the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 (the novel coronavirus) a pandemic there were different reactions from different sectors of society.
The city of Burlington said their Emergency Management Team was meeting to outline plans and that there was a Rapid Response Team in place.
Gowlings WLD, a national law firm with an office in Hamilton put out a message for their clients. It is a model of what can and should be done. It is clear that Gowlings has been preparing for a situation like this.
Peter Lukasiewicz, Chief Executive Officer at Gowlings explains the approach the law firm has taken.
 From numerous public health measures to ongoing market turmoil, it’s no secret that the virus continues to take a major toll on populations and businesses around the world — and our clients in Canada and around the world.
Given these circumstances, I wanted to take this opportunity to tell you that Gowling WLG has been preparing for this unfolding situation since it first began to develop and we are positioned to assist you with the many unforeseen challenges you may face as a result of it.
How we have been preparing our firm
Gowling WLG has a robust continuity strategy in place designed to mitigate potential interruptions to our business — even during the most challenging of times. As circumstances change, we continue to adapt our plans and protocols to address the safety of our people, our clients, and others with whom we work.
All of our offices across Canada and around the world are open. We will apprise you of any changes to the delivery of our services — at the moment, there are none.
How we are helping clients
 In response to the outbreak of COVID-19, our firm has assembled a global taskforce to help clients navigate the many legal and business obstacles that have occurred as a result of the virus. With a view to further assisting our clients, we have also launched an online COVID-19 resource centre comprising timely thought leadership relevant to a range of sectors, as well as a list of key contacts ready to assist you. We will continue to update this page on a regular basis.
As we all continue to monitor the impact and progress of the pandemic, know that our thoughts are with everyone whose lives and businesses have been affected to date.
 By Staff
March 13th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The Aeris Körper Contemporary Dance company is looking for four choreographers to participate in their spring edition of ‘PROSPECTS: an evening of dance and discussion.
 The theme for the night is Social Justice with dance and movement performers focusing on equality, privilege, society and human rights.
Applications are being accepted for two works from Burlington-based artists and an additional two from artists outside of the city. Artists of colour, those living with disabilities, new Canadians, and new generation artists 18 to 30 years of age are encouraged to apply.
As a works-in-progress platform, ‘PROSPECTIVES’ provides artists, with a variety of performance experience, an opportunity to refine their 15-minute productions and receive post-performance input from the audience.
Performances can be inside or outside with artists being encouraged to create unique seating arrangements for audience members.
Applications due by April 9, 2020 will be judged by a jury composed of choreographers who previously performed at ‘PROSPECTS’ events. Applicants requiring help completing their submissions can contact Mikaela Demers at producer@aeriskorper.com or 647-876-7159.
 Successful choreographers will present their pieces the evening of Saturday June 20, 2020 at The Burlington Student Theatre and receive an honorarium.
Aeris Kőrper, a contemporary-based dance company, produces live performances, hosts community platforms, and leads accessible movement workshops in Burlington, Hamilton, and across the Greater Toronto Area.
By Staff
March 12th, 2029
BURLINGTON, ON
With the COVID-19 situation, the City of Burlington will be offering full refunds for Recreation facilities and program registrations (including March Break programs) without any administration charge.
 Some planned events might be cancelled. For facility rentals: organizations and residents with upcoming rentals may cancel or rebook at a future date (pending availability) with no penalty. Please contact rentals@burlington.ca.
For registrations, including March Break programs: to withdraw from an upcoming course without penalty, or to withdraw from a course in progress to receive a prorated refund, please email liveandplay@burlington.ca or visit us during customer service hours.
If you have more questions about cancellations, please reach us at rentals@burlington.ca or liveandplay@burlington.ca or 905-335-7738.
By Staff
March 12th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The Minister of Education has issued a Ministerial Order to close all publicly funded schools in Ontario for two weeks following March break, in response to the emergence in Ontario of COVID-19.
This order was approved by the Lieutenant Governor in Council.
This means that Ontario schools have been ordered to remain closed from March 14 through to April 5, 2020.
 Classroom to remain empty for two weeks after Spring Break The Cineplex movie theatre chain and the Burlington Performing Arts Centre have said they will continue to operate.
The National Hockey League has shut down for the balance of the season.
There are mixed message here which is the last thing we need.
 By Pepper Parr
March 12th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
They were minutes away from breaking for lunch when City Manager Tim Commisso asked if he could say a few words on the COVID19 situation.
Rory Nisan, who was chairing the Standing Committee on Corporate Services, Strategy, Risk and Accountability was about to ask if that could be covered after lunch when Commisso began to explain that the city was going to be communicating daily on what the issues were and what the city was doing about COVID 19 – a second case had been announced earlier.
 City manager Tim Commisso He pointed out that the Region was the health authority but that the city had to think about such things as operations, keeping places clean and policy issues.
Treasurer Joan Ford explained that she was creating cost centres to keep track of spending while Commisso talked about business continuity and the level of services the city was going to be able to deliver.
There was a concern over what could happen on the revenue side if Parks and Recreation had to refund fees that have been paid. Commisso wanted to ensure that no one got hit with any out of pocket expense.
Commisso also wanted to know what the public felt they needed to know.
His office is thinking through the delineation of essential services and determining what events the city departments have planned and if they should take place.
The province may well decide, he said, to limit how and where people meet and the municipal sector would have to enforce the provincial decisions.
The city has yet to create a point that people can email or call to voice their concerns.
Commisso will be working full out to cobble together the teams of people he is going to need to see us through this situation.
There are two committees in place. The Emergency Management Committee and a Rapid Response committee that has been meeting.
City manager suddenly has a major public concern issue on his hands – seeing the city through the COVID9 situation. There are a lot of decisions that are going to have to be made on the spot and Commisso wanted the public to know that his office is gong to be open, transparent and communicating every day with the public.
Councillor Nisan noted that they will be meeting at the Region on the 25th and as a Council.
Councillor Kearns jumped in and said waiting that long was not good enough: “We need to be on top of this daily and ensuring that the city manager has the support he needs.
The risk for Halton at this point is low – but there is a risk and failing to identify that risk and deal with it before it gets out of hand is not an option.
By Pepper Parr
March 12th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The oncologist, who works at the Juravinski Cancer Centre in Hamilton and lives in Burlington, was tested as having COVID19 virus symptoms and is at home self-isolating for a period of 14 days.
Her spouse, who is a surgeon at St. Joseph’s Healthcare, also treated an unknown number of patients at the Charlton Avenue hospital before he too went into self-isolation at their Burlington home Tuesday night.
The Gazette has a question: Do the parents have children and have those children been sent to school?
 Dr Hamidah Meghani, Halton Region Medical Officer of Heath. Burlington finally got to hear from Dr. Hamidah Meghani, the Halton Medical Officer of Health (MoH) who said “Our case was not symptomatic on her flight, on her journey home, so we should not be worried about that situation,” said Meghani. “At this time the risk is associated with symptoms.”
 Dr. Barry Lumb at a media event. Hamilton Health Sciences physician-in-chief Dr. Barry Lumb said the oncologist “did not have respiratory symptoms” such as coughing, sneezing or fever.”
Dr. Meghani said she had “some mild respiratory symptoms.”
Which was it?
The news conference was cut off after less than 30 minutes and it wasn’t until the city held a second media availability in Hamilton at 3 p.m. that reporters were able to have all of their questions heard.
This is not the time to fumble the flow of information to the public.
Related news stories:
MoH was MIA
First COVID19 case in Halton
By Staff
March 11th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The language is a little stilted but the collection of Wheras statements tell the story.
The standing Committee was recommending that the motion be sent to Council and once approved sent along to the provincial government.
Approve the following resolution and direct the Mayor to send the Motion and a letter to the ministers and premier:
WHEREAS the City of Burlington is a member of Conservation Halton (CH)and is represented on their Board of Directors;
WHEREAS the municipally appointed board of directors determines the policies, priorities and budget of the CAs;
WHEREAS the City of Burlington has been well-served by Conservation Halton;
WHEREAS the CAs are watershed-based organizations providing programs and services that contribute to a safer, sustainable environment and address climate change
WHEREAS the CAs have flood management programs employing a watershed-based approach that monitors stream flow, water levels and climatic conditions, forecasts flooding, issues flood warnings, regulates development activities in natural hazards, educates the public about flooding, operates flood management infrastructure, protects natural cover and manages storm water to help reduce the impacts of flooding;
WHEREAS the CAs are partners with municipalities in developing the science and policy to manage drinking water source protection;
WHEREAS the CAs own, manage and operate a valuable network of conservation areas that provide access to green space and family-friendly education and recreation activities for our growing communities that inform the public about a wide array of topics including watershed management, wildlife, and Canadian culture and heritage, contributes to the local economy, provides jobs for youth and promotes health and wellness for our residents and provides outdoor experiential education to local school children and encourages communities to embrace and value our natural and scenic assets;
WHEREAS the CAs undertake reforestation and landscape restoration and aid landowners in making changes on their properties in support of naturalization or water quality protection within the watershed;
WHEREAS the CAs provide the Region with technical expertise in support of its planning and infrastructure delivery, education and health programs;
WHEREAS flowing accounts for the largest portion of disaster recovery costs in Canada;
WHEREAS CA s are important partners in on-the-ground and cost-effective initiatives to address climate change;
WHEREAS work by CH on updating floodplain mapping will be beneficial for community development and land use planning, flood forecasting and warnings, and emergency planning and responses;
WHEREAS the role of CAs in reviewing community development is essential for creating sustainable communities and protecting our natural resources;
WHEREAS the Municipality has service agreements with each CA for planning and other services;
WHEREAS the CA must be able to charge fees, and derive revenue from its facilities, programs and services as appropriate to reduce the burden to the tax levy;
AND WHEREAS the Ontario provincial government has cut 50%fromtheir $7.4 million Natural Hazards Transfer Payment Grant (Section 39) to Ontario conservation authorities that supports flood and erosion control infrastructure, flood forecasting and warning, watershed planning projects and technical studies, and the new act has the effect of downloading additional responsibilities to the CAs to be paid for by municipalities;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Burlington request that the Provincial Government restore or improve their funding of Conservation Authorities to provide a more stable funding base that would prevent further downloading of costs to municipalities and allow maintenance of hazard programs;
THAT Conservation Authorities must continue to oversee flood control and review developmental impacts that may impact flood plains and natural heritage sites;
THAT educational and recreational programming must continue to be implemented by Conservation Authorities as they provide public awareness, employment and tourism;
THAT the Provincial Government ensure that the programs and services of the CAs maintain their watershed focus and allow for the flexibility of including programs and services important to local circumstances;
THAT the Province include experts from Conservation Authorities, staff of the Ministries of Natural Resources and Forestry, Environment Conservation and Parks as well as Municipal Affairs and Housing and municipalities when developing the draft regulations;
THAT the Province not dictate the form, content or duration of the MOUs or agreements, allowing for municipalities to support non-mandatory programs in a manner that suits local circumstances;
AND FURTHER THAT this resolution be forwarded to the Premier, the Minister of Environment, Conservation and Parks, the Minister of Natural Resources, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, all local MPs and MPPs, leaders of the opposition parties, all local Conservation Authorities, the Association of Municipalities of Ontario and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, Halton Region, the towns of Oakville, Halton Hills and Milton to seek their support and be made publicly available.
That is one of the levels governments use to talk to each other.
 Pepper Parr
March 11th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Conservation Authority is much more than the group that operates the ski lifts at Mt Kelso, and maintains the trail up to Mt Nemo or runs the historically significant Crawford Lake setting – not to mention the excellent Iroquoian settlements in the Region.
 Restoration is a large part of the Conservation Authority mandate. They monitor the state of the watershed and now have a complex set of devices that measure the water levels and flow rates across the northern part of Burlington as well as numerous other locations in Halton.
The Conservation Authority is a critical part of watching over the environment which is a significantly different business than it was five years ago.
We now experience radical climate changes and someone has to be on the front line ensuring that we become aware of the problems and have warning systems in place.
The Conservation Authority as we know it is under threat due to changes that are being proposed by the provincial government.
A survey is being done – final date to have your say is March 13th.
CLICK HERE to get to the survey.
It’s your community – have your say.
By Pepper Parr
March 11th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The citizens of the city got an opportunity to have their say on how Climate Change was going to be managed. More than seventeen delegated at city hall earlier this week.
We are looking at a 30 year challenge during which everyone is going to have to change the way they do some things.
 52,000 homes will need to be retrofitted in the next ten years; 100% of new vehicles purchase in ten years to be electric; 50% of all vehicles to be electric. Is this actually possible? The City Action Plan has seven sections – with three getting the immediate focus.
 The red bars are the immediate thrust. The seven are:
1.Low Carbon New Buildings
2.Deep Energy Retrofit Program (existing buildings)
3.Renewable Energy Co-operative
4.Integrated Mobility Initiatives
5.Electric Mobility & equipment
6.Waste Reduction
7.Industry
The very lengthy report in which the challenge and the plan was set has the feel of something written by lawyers with numerous provisos.
This analysis has been undertaken to identify a low carbon energy pathway for the community of Burlington.
Reasonable skill, care and diligence have been exercised to assess the information acquired during the preparation of this analysis, but no guarantees or warranties are made regarding the accuracy or completeness of this information. This document, the information it contains, the information and basis on which it relies, and factors associated with implementation of the pathway are subject to changes that are beyond the control of the authors.
The information provided by others is believed to be accurate, but has not been verified.
The population and employment projections that inform the analysis are based on information from the June 26, 2015 Region Official Plan Consolidation to 2031 at the time the document was published, and further projections from 2031 to 2050 are an estimate for the purpose of the Burlington Climate Action Plan, and were developed by the authors of this report for this exercise, and do not constitute projections for the purposes of land use planning.
This analysis includes high level estimates of costs and revenues that should not be relied upon for design or other purposes without verification.
 BAU is Business as Usual; LC is low carbon, The challenge is in the graph. Of the seven parts to the Plan, three are the focus at this point in time
1.Low Carbon NewBuildings
2.Deep Energy RetrofitProgram (existingbuildings)
3.Renewable Energy Co-operative
The bigger picture will be supported by a lot of community engagement. The work that has to be done cannot be done by staff at city hall alone.
This is an all hands on deck exercise
While it is a world-wide problem it comes down to what each household does. The role of the city of Burlington is to be the Organizer –capacity builder, Collaborator, Community engagement –education & awareness champion, Leading by example, processing permits & approvals, advocacy –senior levels of government, programs, incentives, regulator & funder
How this will all come together:
City Staff will lead; there will be a Stakeholder Advisory Committee, three Task Teams: Energy Retrofits; Renewable Energy and Electric Mobility & Equipment.
Partnerships will include Bay Area Climate Change Office/Council–Halton Climate Collective–Clean Air Partnership & Council–QUEST–The Atmospheric Fund Implementation Structure
 Lynn Robichaud The objective is to make Burlington a carbon neutral community
Lynn Robichaud, serves as the Senior Sustainability Coordinator
By Pepper Parr
March 11th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
We knew it was going to happen – the when was the question.
When was today when the first case of COVID-19 was confirmed in Halton region
 Dr. Hamidah Meghani, Medical Officer of Health for Halton Region Dr. David Williams, Ontario Chief Medical Officer of Health and Dr. Hamidah Meghani, Medical Officer of Health for Halton Region confirmed the first case of COVID-19 in Halton region. This is the 37th case confirmed in Ontario.
This virus is manageable providing you pay attention and monitor your health. When in doubt – don’t delay – get to the medical authorities.
The virus can be held at bay and not spread – if those who even think they might be infected turn to the professionals who can do what has to be done.
A 32 year old female returned from Hawaii on Saturday, became symptomatic on Monday and was tested at Hamilton Health Sciences’ (HHS) Juravinski Hospital on Monday, March 9. She is a frontline healthcare worker at HHS and resides in Burlington.
The hospital took all necessary precautions and followed standard operating procedures, including testing and assessment. The patient is currently at home where she remains in self-isolation. Halton Region Public Health, Hamilton Public Health and Hamilton Health Sciences are working closely and actively engaged in contact tracing and case management.
“Halton Region Public Health is continuing to work with provincial and local health counterparts and with the resident to identify all known contacts who may have been potentially exposed to the virus to assess if there is a potential health risk,” said Dr. Hamidah Meghani, Medical Officer of Health. “The risk to Halton residents remains low.”
What the dood Dr. doesn’t add is that it is real.
“This incidence was detected very quickly and all proper processes were followed,” says Dr. Wes Stephen, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Hamilton Health Sciences. “When she began to show symptoms, infection control protocol was swiftly initiated and she was tested in a safe environment.
Out of an abundance of caution, last week, Hamilton Health Sciences expanded its criteria for testing beyond the standard case definition to include any travel outside Canada. As a result, this case was identified as quickly as possible. She is now in self-isolation protocol.”
Contact Halton Region Public Health by calling 311, 905-825-6000 or toll free at 1-866-442-5866 if you have a fever OR cough OR breathing difficulty AND any of the following:
• travelled outside of Canada in the 14 days before onset of illness; or
• close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19; or
• close contact with a person with acute respiratory illness who travelled to affected areas within 14 days prior to their illness onset.
The best way to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including COVID-19 is to:
• stay home when ill;
• cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or sleeve;
• wash hands with soap and water or with alcohol-based hand rub;
• clean and disinfect objects and surfaces.
For more information on COVID-19, please visit halton.ca/coronavirus.
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By Staff
