 By Pepper Parr
February 22nd, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
The decision to turn what has been a location where buses came in, picked up passengers and moved on serving as a transfer station turned into a mobility hub has confused many, particularly in the downtown core.
Most people see the small terminal on John Street as not much more than a bus station.
 At one point the city considered closing the terminal – now it is going to be upgraded to a Anchor level mobility hub. Turns out that there has been a lot of thinking taking place that since well before 2014 when the Provincial Policy Statement was revised.
 Lisa Kierns – part of the ECoB team Paul Brophy, Gary Scobie, Brian Jones, Elaine O’Brien, Brian Aasgaard, Lisa Kearns, Michael Hriblijan, My Dang, Deby Morrison and Nancy Cunningham delegated on the issue at recent city hall meetings
 Gary Scobie The issue for the delegations was that the bus terminal on John Street does not make the Downtown a Mobility Hub and that the Downtown area isn’t a Mobility Hub. The delegations wanted to know how the downtown got designated as an Urban Growth Centre?
The planning department provided the following response. It is included in the background papers that will be put before city council on February 27th.
 The current Urban Growth Centre boundary – a quick look at the map suggests the gerrymandering has been done. Does the public really understand the impact of this boundary? “ The identification of the Downtown as a Mobility Hub originated in the 2006 Places to Grow document, which identified Downtown Burlington as an Urban Growth Centre (UGC). At the time the Growth Plan was being developed, the Downtown had been the subject of on- going strategic public investments and revitalization efforts by the City, such as Momentum 88 and Superbuild (2001) funding.
“The identification of Downtown Burlington as an Urban Growth Centre as part of the Places to Grow document further supported and built upon these efforts by establishing Downtown as an area for growth and investment that would support the Downtown’s long-term success.
 The GO train system was going to move people efficiently with 15 minute service and be electrified to help out with climate change. “In 2006, Metrolinx and the Province introduced a Regional Transportation Plan called “The Big Move” for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, which contained action items to develop and implement a multi-modal transportation plan. As part of this, a connected system of mobility hubs throughout the GTHA was envisioned to serve as places where connectivity between different modes of transportation including walking, biking and transit would come together seamlessly and where there is an intensive concentration of living, employment, shopping and/ or recreation.
“In addition to serving as transit hubs, these areas have the potential to become vibrant places of activity and destinations in and of themselves. Mobility Hubs are intended to become locations for major destinations such as office buildings, hospitals, education facilities and government services. Two types of mobility hubs were identified and defined within the Big Move: Anchor Hubs and Gateway Hubs.
“Anchor hubs are defined as those areas that have strategic importance due to their relationship with provincially identified Urban Growth Centres, as set out by the Places to Grow Plan. Downtown Burlington is identified as an Anchor Mobility Hub due to its relationship with the City’s Urban Growth Centre; its potential to attract and accommodate new growth and development; the convergence of multiple local transit routes through the Downtown Bus Terminal; the linkages to GO Transit, the other Mobility Hubs and surrounding municipalities; and its ability to achieve densities that would be supportive of a multi-modal transportation plan.
“At the January 23, 2018 Planning and Development Committee meeting a motion directing staff to work with the province to remove the mobility hub classification for the downtown, and shifting the UGC from downtown to the Burlington GO station failed.”
 Mayor Rick Goldring explaining Intensification – the public was told then that the changes were not going to change the Burlington “we all lived in”. The 23 storey condo city council approved and the 26 storey condo the OMB said could be built xx that belief. During the lead up to the serious work being done on what started out as a re-write of the Official Plan the Mayor gave several presentations on intensification. His objective at the time was to assure people that the growth that was going to take place would not change the character of the city.
The public was still concerned then – and they are very concerned now.
What has been come increasingly clear is that it is provincial directions – Place to Grow – the Big Move – the Public Policy Statement that was issued in 2014 and revised in 2017 aren’t fully understood or appreciated by the vast majority of the public.
 A Provincial Policy Statement is issued under section 3 of the Planning Act. The 2014 Statement became effective April 30, 2014 and applies to planning decisions made on or after that date. It replace the Provincial Policy Statement, 2005.
That 2014 Statement got replaced in 2017.
Much of this happened while the Planning department underwent significant leadership and staff changes.
The public is struggling on several levels: to get their council to be more transparent and to listen to what the public has to say.
The public has yet to hear a believable explanation on why the draft Official Plan adoption cannot be deferred until after the October municipal direction. The argument that it has to be approved now because if it is deferred it might mean that any new Councillors would need six months to gain an understanding of what these complex plans are all about.
The fact is that any plan that gets approved in the near future sits on a shelf until the sometime in 2019 when it gets reviewed by the Regional Planning & Public Works Committee.
The provincial government explains on its web site that “the long-term prosperity and social well-being of Ontario depends upon planning for strong, sustainable and resilient communities for people of all ages, a clean and healthy environment, and a strong and competitive economy.
 The Escarpment defines the city of Burlington. No development except for within the three settlement areas and even there development is very limited. “Ontario is a vast province with diverse urban, rural and northern communities which may face different challenges related to diversity in population, economic activity, pace of growth and physical and natural conditions. Some areas face challenges related to maintaining population and diversifying their economy, while other areas face challenges related to accommodating and managing the development and population growth which is occurring, while protecting important resources and the quality of the natural environment.
“The Provincial Policy Statement focuses growth and development within urban and rural settlement areas while supporting the viability of rural areas. It recognizes that the wise management of land use change may involve directing, promoting or sustaining development. Land use must be carefully managed to accommodate appropriate development to meet the full range of current and future needs, while achieving efficient development patterns and avoiding significant or sensitive resources and areas which may pose a risk to public health and safety.
 This 26 storey application will be on the south side of the Brant – James intersection.  This approved development will be on the south side of the Brant James intersection. “Efficient development patterns optimize the use of land, resources and public investment in infrastructure and public service facilities. These land use patterns promote a mix of housing, including affordable housing, employment, recreation, parks and open spaces, and transportation choices that increase the use of active transportation and transit before other modes of travel.”
Dense stuff, complex stuff that the public is expected to understand while they decide which program they want to register their children in at Parks and Recreation or figure out how to get the permit they need for changes they want to make to their property.
There has to be a better way to comply with the changes the province has mandated.
 February 22, 2018
By Pat Shields
BURLINGTON, ON
The road to the playoffs for the Burlington Cougars got a little bumpy on February 17th when they lost to the Mississauga Chargers. The Cougars were then 5 points behind the 8th place Orangeville Flyers for the final playoff spot with just four games left on the schedule.
It was a tough start for the Cougars who were playing at the Appleby Ice Centre, with the Chargers’ Matthew Brassard finding the back of the net to open the scoring at the 4:10 mark of the first period. Burlington would knot it up before the end of the frame though, with Mitchell Morrison scoring his 14th goal of the season.
Mississauga came out firing in the second period, out shooting the Cougars 13-7 thanks in part to some powerplay opportunities. The Chargers would take the lead at the midway point of the frame as Brandon Yeamans scored his 12th goal of the season.
 The Cougars played hard – handily out shooting the Chargers by a 19-8 margin The Cougars battled valiantly in the third period, handily outshooting the Chargers by a 19-8 margin and coming close to tying the game. The tying goal turned out to be elusive though, with Burlington failing to find the equalizer and all but shutting the book on their playoff hopes.
Cougars goaltender Justin Richer turned in another impressive performance in the loss, stopping 33 of 35 shots.
The hope for the team to keep its playoff chances alive when the St. Michaels Buzzers come to town for a Family Day matchup.
It didn’t got well enough. Despite a physical effort in Monday’s Family Day game, the Burlington Cougars came up short against the St. Michael’s Buzzers by a score of 3-0 and were eliminated from playoff contention in the process.
Burlington set the tone early playing a physical brand of hockey in the first period, but fell behind in the latter stages of the frame. Buzzers captain Cameron Searles broke the scoreless tie with his 16th goal of the season to give St. Michael’s the lead heading to the first intermission.
 The Cougars were on the wrong side of a number of power plays, the undisciplined play didn’t help The teams traded chances in the second period and while the Cougars found themselves on the wrong side of a number of power plays, were unscathed by their undisciplined play as the score remained 1-0 for the Buzzers heading to the third period.
With their season on the line the Cougars came out flat in the final frame, surrendering an insurance marker just 8 seconds in, this time with Buzzers Jonah Alexander finding the back of the net.
Burlington would continue its penalty trouble throughout the period, unable to establish much offensive momentum. Alexander would then ice the game with an empty netter with less than two minutes to play.
The Cougars now have just two games remaining in the 2017-18 season.
 By Kelly Drennan
February 22, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
Kelly Drennan is a graphic designer and emerging visual artist, who has curatorial and sales experience in commercial galleries. She received a BA (Hons) in Studio Art from the University of Toronto Scarborough and a Diploma in Graphic Design from George Brown College. She is a past member of the James North Art Collective, and has exhibited her work in and around Hamilton and Toronto. Kelly is a board member at Hamilton Artists Inc., and manages www.earlscourtart.com. She works and resides in Hamilton, Ontario.
There is something very James Dean about the work of Julio Ferrer that is on exhibit at the Art Gallery of Burlington.
The exhibit features portraits of all 23 Canadian Prime Ministers
 Hamilton artist Julio Ferrer Ferrer’s best known work features iconic figures with political narratives in a pop art style. The artist typically outlines his images in black ink and fills in the rest with high-octane colour. His work is graphic, with a comic book/street art edge.
Both a painter and printmaker, Ferrer is so skilled and paints in such a way that it is sometimes difficult to tell which is a painting is and which is the print.
Recently, Ferrer added some much needed colour to Canadian politics. In honour of Canada 150, he was commissioned to paint portraits of Canada’s 23 Prime Ministers… and paint them he did. They are energized and juicy. It can be noted that this is probably the first time Justin Trudeau will have flaming red hair, and Stephen Harper a magenta suit. Titled “Prime Time”, the paintings are currently on display at the AGB.
Born in Cienfuegos, Cuba, Ferrer graduated from the National School of Visual Arts (Havana) and The International People’s College (Denmark). His work has been exhibited Internationally and he has won numerous awards. Ferrer lives in Hamilton, Ontario with his wife and son.
Ferrer said his earliest memories “are from when I was 6 years old. I used to fill notebooks with drawings and was eager to finish one to start another.
“The world around me. The everyday news. The politics. The music; they all inspire my work.”
Everything Ferrer starts in the search for an idea. “Once that idea reveals, I make a doodle to remember it and after a few days if I still consider it is a good idea, I do my sketch and I transfer to canvas. My technique is quite slow. In order to get the flatness of the colours I do several layers of each colour until I think is flat enough. Red takes up to 10 layers. The work with the lines is very precise. The larger the painting the more difficult the lines are but that challenge is what I enjoy the most.”
When painting he uses acrylics and oils; when print making Serigraphy and Monotypes are the mediums.
Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol, and Hokusai have been the prime influences.
 Sir John A. MacDonald – the first of the 23 Prime Ministers this country has had. Ferrer believes the role of an artist is to criticize the bad things that happen in society. Always being smart in the way you project your thoughts and find original ways to reach the people and make them think about any issue that you intend to talk about.
 Seven of the 23 Prime Minister: How many can you name? Much of Ferrer’s work has been described as tongue in cheek. He responds to that with: “I like the viewer to enjoy not only the quality of my technique but to smile and even laugh with my ideas and to make them think. I find that through humour you can get a unique connection with the viewer. First comes the laugh, then the deep thought.”
 By Staff
February 21st, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
 Burlington MP Karina Gould – baby due early in March Burlington’s Member of Parliament and federal Cabinet Minister Karina Gould stood in for the Minister of Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour Patti Hadju yesterday and announced the Canada Learning Bond program that funnels funds into Registered Education Savings Plans (RESP)
The total amount the Government deposits can be up to $2,000. Applying for and receiving the Canada Learning Bond will not affect any other benefits that an eligible child receives.
Through the Canada Learning Bond, the Government will add money to the RESP for an eligible child every year, even if you do not add any money.
An RESP is an education savings account set up with a financial institution like a bank or a credit union, or group plan dealer. The money in the RESP will grow tax free until it can be used for expenses related to their studies in:
 Apprenticeship programs
Colleges
Trade schools; or
Universities
The announcement was made at The Centre for Skills Development and Training.
 By Staff
February 21st, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
There are three things that are distinctly Canadian – hockey, curling and Maple Syrup.
The maple sap is about to flow and Mountsberg and Crawford Lake Conservation Areas are gearing up for the start of the maple harvest. One of the great traditions of springtime in our area is maple syrup season and each year we welcome thousands of visitors to Mountsberg’s Maple Town and Crawford Lake’s Sweet Water Season.
 The sap comes out one drop at a time – and only if the temperature is just right. Starting this Saturday, February 24 until April 2 (open on weekends, March Break and holidays) Mountsberg Conservation Area welcomes visitors to the working sugar bush at Maple Town and Crawford Lake
Conservation Area presents Sweet Water Season, a celebration of the Indigenous origins of maple sugaring.
Regular park admission fees apply for Maple Town and Sweet Water Season, Halton Parks members only need to show their membership for admission. Best of all, you can visit two parks for the price of one, as admission to one park may be used at any other Conservation Halton park (except Glen Eden) when visiting the same day.
 The sap is distilled from sweet water into a nice thick sweet and sticky treat. Canada produces approximately 80 per cent of the world’s pure maple syrup. Canada’s maple syrup producing regions are located in the provinces of Quebec (primary producer), Ontario, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia. There are more than 10,800 maple syrup farms in Canada with more than 40,000,000 trees, according to the Government of Canada.
Maple Town
The sugar bush at Mountsberg’s Maple Town has been producing maple magic for more than 150 years and educating the public for over 30 years.
The park will tap about 400 trees this spring and the watery sap will be magically transformed into sweet maple syrup in the Sugar Shanty. How will it be served? Over hot pancakes in the Pancake House, of course! Maple candy tasting, guided wagon rides and tours of the sugar bush with Conservation Halton’s knowledgable staff round out the Maple Town experience.
 Served on corn bread – it is close to a delicacy. Sweet Water Season
The skill of maple sugar making was first learned from First Nations people who have been enjoying the tasty treat for generations. A trip to Crawford Lake will help you step back in time to learn how maple sugar may have been made in an Iroquoian Village over 600 years ago. Sweet Water demonstrations occur at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. and conclude with a tasty morsel of cornbread soaked in maple syrup. Don’t know what type of syrup you enjoy most? Syrup is similar to wine with many distinct flavours! Treat yourself to syrup sampling flights at noon and 2 p.m. Maple taffy on snow will also be available from 11a.m. until 4 p.m. (weekends and March Break) – a truly Canadian delight.
Want to kick your maple experience up a notch? Join us for one of these special events!
• Sugarmaker’s Breakfast: Have you ever wanted to tap a tree and learn how to make syrup at home? Come to the Sugarmaker’s Breakfast at Mountsberg with sittings at 8 or 9 a.m. on February 24 and 25 (pre-registration required).
• A Taste of Maple: Meet Chef Johl Whiteduck Ringuette in the Deer Clan Longhouse and learn about the Indigenous heritage of maple and Indigenous cuisine in the GTA! Chef Johl will be providing tasty samples from his team at NishDish Marketeria. Join us for A Taste of Maple, Sunday, March 18 from 1 to 2 p.m. for $25 (pre-registration required).
 By Staff
February 21, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
Records were broken yesterday – 15 degrees had the creeks swollen with Spring run-off and the ice on the streets all but gone.
The Lake had all kinds of cold energy stored in the water that contrasted with the seasonally warm air that resulted in mist rising off the lake.
Picture of the day.
 View of the Skyway bridge from outside the Discovery Centre. Entrance to Hamilton harbour completely shrouded in mist.
 By Staff
February 20th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
Close the doors – they are coming in the windows.
According to Ward 2 Councillor Marianne Meed Ward, there are six new development applications in Ward 2 alone.
She has scheduled public meetings for several and expects to hold public meetings for all of them. Outlined below with dates of public meetings, where scheduled, and details about the proposals.
1.
1335-1355 Plains Rd East
 The applications propose the redevelopment of the site into nine standard townhouse units along the northern half of the site, 17 back-to-back townhouse units on the southern half of the property and 12 back-to-back townhouse units on the eastern side of the property for a total of 38 units.
 The Neighbourhood Meeting is scheduled for March 7, 2018; 7 p.m., The Salvation Army, 2090 Prospect St
Burlington, ON
The planner on the file is: Lola Emberson at: lola.emberson@burlington.ca – 905-335-7600, ext. 7427
2.
2082, 2086 and 2090 James St
 The redevelopment proposes an 18 storey condominium apartment building consisting of 153 residential units. The 18th floor will consist of the mechanical units and two penthouse suites. The site is approximately 0.23 hectares in size with frontage on James Street and Martha Street
 Neighbourhood Meeting is scheduled for March 27, 2018; 7 p.m. – Art Gallery Burlington
The planner on the file is: Lola Emberson at – lola.emberson@burlington.ca – 905-335-7600, ext. 7427
3.
409 Brant St.; 444,448 and 450 John St; 2002 and 2012 James St
The purpose of the application is to amend the Official Plan and Zoning Bylaw to permit a 24 storey building, including 23 stories of residential and a one storey roof top amenity area.
 The proposed 24 storey application for south side Brant & James would include:
597 square metres of ground floor commercial and 227 residential units
five (5) levels of underground parking
car access from John Street
commercial units with front windows facing onto Brant Street, James Street and John Street.
Neighbourhood Meeting has yet to be schedules
The planner on the file is: Suzanne McInnes at suzanne.mcinnes@burlington.ca – 905-335-7600, ext. 7555
4.
Site Address: 2087-2103 Prospect Street
 Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law Amendment to allow for the construction of two blocks of stacked townhouses, each containing 25 rental housing units (50 housing units). The 2 existing fourplex buildings (8 housing units) will be demolished.
The 8 storey apartment building will remain.
Neighbourhood Meeting has yet to be scheduled.
The planner on the file is: Suzanne McInnes at – suzanne.mcinnes@burlington.ca – 905-335-7600, ext. 7555
5.
2130 and 2136 New Street
 Zoning By-law amendment applications to permit six single detached dwellings fronting onto a private condominium road.
Neighbourhood Meeting yet to be scheduled.
The planner on the file is: Melissa Morgan at Melissa.Morgan@burlington.ca – Phone: 905-335-7600, ext. 7788
6.
2421 & 2431 New Street
 Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments to allow two, joined 11 storey residential buildings. Building One (west side of property) is proposed to be a 223 unit retirement residence.
 Building Two (east side of property) is proposed to be a 139 unit residential condominium.
Neighbourhood Meeting has yet to be scheduled.
The planner on the file is: Suzanne McInnes at suzanne.mcinnes@burlington.ca – 905-335-7600, ext. 7555
 By Pepper Parr
February 20, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
The Brand – and the marketing of a politician.
My experience with Marianne Meed Ward goes back to the time in 2010 when she was running for the ward 2 council seat.
It was clear to all those at the two campaign meetings I attended that Meed Ward had her eye on the Chain of Office the Mayor wears.
The 2010 election was the occasion for then Mayor Cam Jackson to lose his seat – he served just the one term after leaving provincial politics.
 The community association Meed Ward rode to a city council seat was Save our Waterfront. The 2018 to 2022 will be save the downtown core. At the meetings I attended SOW, Saving our Waterfront, was the citizens group that Meed Ward rode to city council.
I don’t recall A Better Burlington ever being mentioned, and I am a stickler for details.
Today – Meed Ward is moving away from her Ward 2 Newsletter as the vehicle that will get her that Chain of Office in October.
While she hasn’t declared Marianne will not be ruining for her council seat again.
Today Meed Ward says A Better Burlington began in 2006 after her neighbours said they felt left out of city decisions, learning about them only after they’d been made.
 Meed Ward at her 2014 nomination meeting where she said to those gathered that she did not want just their vote – she wanted their trust. Meed Ward defines herself as a journalist for 22 years, who came to the conclusion that “I can do something about that” and a website and newsletter were born. “They’ve taken various forms and names over the years, but the intent remains: To let you know what’s happening at City Hall before decisions are made, so you can influence outcomes for A Better Burlington.”
There is a point during an election campaign where sitting members cannot use the facilities and services they can normally use on a daily basis.
Meed Ward is clearly setting up a new brand so that when she is an announced candidate she has the machinery to communicate with anyone and everyone in the city.
 Her message is pretty clear – is it going to be heard city wide? Meed Ward believes that “The best decisions are made when elected representatives tap the wisdom of our community members, and welcome many different perspectives.”
Her new site will allows residents to comment and debate with each other; the Commenting Guidelines established in 2016 aim to keep debate respectful.
By Pepper Parr
February 20, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
Where is ECoB and their plans to appeal the decision to approve that 23 storey at the north east corner of Brant and James opposite city hall? The on across the street from city hall.
The question being asked is: Can council overturn the 5-2 vote on the 23 storey building at 421 Brant, to stop the project?
 Sometime in the year 2020 people will be looking out from those balconies and the Brant Street we know today will be a thing of the past. The tomato processing plant that used to be where the Waterfront hotel is today is also a thing of the past as is the Riviera Motel. The world does move on. Answer: Technically, the final decision on 421 Brant has not been made; that won’t happen until the amending bylaws come forward for a council vote.
Usually, the bylaws are presented at the same time as the vote on the application, except when community benefits are negotiated. Those are negotiated after council votes on an application, and the benefits come back for final vote alongside the amending bylaw.
Community benefits are being negotiated for this development, because of the increased height/density, the bylaws and community benefits will come back at a future date (likely in the spring) for council vote. That vote will be the final decision on the matter.
When that final vote is taken ECoB then has something they can appeal.
Council could choose at that time NOT to approve the amending bylaws, which would stop the project. That is unlikely but technically possible.
The fact that the final decision on this matter hasn’t yet been made is why in December the Engaged Citizens of Burlington could not file an Ontario Municipal Board appeal of the council “decision” on 421 Brant; a decision hasn’t been made until there is a vote on the bylaws, which hasn’t happened yet. The bylaw vote triggers the appeal period to file an appeal with the OMB (or the new Land Planning Appeals Tribunal).
Reconsideration Motions:
In general terms, council can choose at any time to “reconsider” a vote – (but that doesn’t apply in this case because the final vote hasn’t yet occurred).
A motion to reconsider an item requires a 5-2 vote to get the motion to the floor; and if that passes, a simple 4-3 majority is all that is needed to make a new decision on the item.
Only someone who voted in the affirmative on the original motion can present a motion to reconsider the decision.
 Taylor said he voted for the 23 storeys but was going to ensure that buildings on Lakeshore and Brant didn’t go higher than 17 storeys. The the OMB gives a developer four blocks to the west approval to put up 26 storeys. would that cause Taylor to have another change of heart?
 Councillor Blair Lancaster might get soft and decide that 23 storeys is too much. Unlikely though. That means one of Councillors Taylor, Craven, Sharman or Lancaster would have to move a motion to reconsider and then five of the seven members would have to vote for that motion.
Looks pretty slim doesn’t it?
And the OMB decision that gave the ADI Development Group the right to put up a 26 story tower just blocks away kind of makes the idea of an appeal questionable.
The matter keeping the development away from city council is determining just what the community benefit are going to be.
Many people wonder just what does a developer have to give the city in the way of community benefits. How is that benefit calculated?
In the planning world the benefit is called an “uplift”
A calculation is done on the increased value of land as a result of a rezoning, the idea being that land zoned at 8 storeys will be worth more than land zoned at 4 storeys.
The land in question is 421, 425, 427, 429, and 431 Brant St. and 2007 to 2015 on James St. Whatever they were worth with a four storey zoning is the base value – what would the properties be worth if zoning were increased to 23 storeys. One of the properties was already zoned at 12 storeys.
 How much are these properties worth with their current zoning and how much would they be worth with the zoning that is being applied for? 50% of the increased value of the land will get paid to the city for community benefits. Once that increase in value is calculated (called “value uplift), typically the city takes 50% of that, in cash or other benefits, or a combination of the two.
The value that is determined is not related to the number of additional units a developer will be able to create and sell – It is not related to the market value of the additional units that could be built as a result of a rezoning to increase height or density.
It is related to what the increased value of the land becomes – a fine distinction.
That equation will surprise a lot of citizens.
Some of the content in this article was copied from the A Better Burlington website.
 By Staff
February 19th, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
Update on that confrontation with Regional police that had a male barricade himself in a residence on Colonsay Drive.
What started out as a domestic situation where a male threatened a female in the Town of Milton on February 2018 ended at 5:00 am this morning when the police took the male into custody.
The female was uninjured in the incident that began in Milton where the male left the area in an erratic manner narrowly missing several pedestrians, prior to police attending. The male was located, alone, at his residence in the City of Burlington.
When officers approached the male in his driveway, the male threatened the officer and retreated into his home. No other persons were in the home at the time. Tactical Officers were deployed to the area and remained there with negotiators from 10pm yesterday until 5am this morning.
Police are still investigating the scene but the male has been arrested and will attend bail court on the 20th day of February 2018.
Accused: David LANE 52 years of age of the City of Burlington
Alleged Offences: Two counts of utter threats, one count of Dangerous Driving, one count of weapons dangerous and one count of weapons: possession contrary to prohibited order.
Original news story:
By Staff
February 19th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
On the world of the scam artists this is a pretty dismal effort at identity theft.
Get used to this stuff; there are enough suckers out there to let their greed and gullibility get the best of them.
You don’t need to be one of them.
 Once the Identity thieves have some basic information they can pick through what they have and build a profile that will eventually get them to sensitive financial data. The sender wasn’t the TD Canada Trust. It came from somewhere within Brazil; that is what the .br tells you..
TD Canada Trust clodoaldodfs@daebauru.sp.gov.br
 The face you think you see – the email address you think you see – may not be coming from the people you think it is coming from. Watch carefully every time. The rest of it is all crap – EXCEPT for that – Click Here to Resolve. That is a rabbit hole you do not want to go down.
You Have an Important notice from New TD Online banking.
Click Here to Resolve
This e-mail is an automated message, we can’t reply to any e-mails sent by return.
Fraud Prevention Unit
Legal Advisor
New 2018 TD Canada Trust, All Rights Reserved.
They want you to go to that Click here line.
 By Pepper Parr
February 19th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
The public got a first look at the four people who want to lead a provincial Progressive Conservative government.
 Christine Elliott Christine Elliot a former member of the Legislature who lost her run for the leadership twice.
 Doug Ford Doug Ford who wants to do for the province what his brother did for the city of Toronto.
Caroline Mulroney who started out running for a seat in the York constituency, where she was acclaimed as the candidate. The Gazette has always believed that Caroline Mulroney was setting herself up to replace Patrick Brown as the leader of the party.
 Caroline Mulroney Little did she know that Patrick would self-destruct in the way he did which gave Mulroney the opening she thought she would have to wait for.
And little did she know that Brown would have his Lazarus moment and rise from the politically dead to have a seat at the debate table.
 Tanya Granic Allen Then there was Tanya , a gutsy young lady who proved to be the brightest voice during the TVO debate. She kept being identified as a single issue candidate: she wants changes made in the provincial sex education curriculum, – but she had just as much to say about the rot in the PC party.
Of the four Granic Allen is the one that would give Premier Wynne a run for her money.
 Patrick Brown resigning as Leader of the Opposition. He has since filed nomination papers as a candidate for the leadership of the Progressive Conservative party. It is confusing. The day after these four debated on TVO, Patrick Brown filed his nomination papers and is waiting for the Progressive Conservative party to sign off on his nomination. How they do that after booting Brown from the PC caucus is something they will have to figure out.
The Progressive Conservatives are looking for a leader and trying to find a vision, a direction they can sell to the public.
Everyone is assuming that the Liberals have all these things – and indeed they do have a formidable leader with a very clear message. They also have terrible polling results but the Liberals are tight and they have solid campaign depth.
However, should the Liberals win the provincial election in June – just how long do you expect Kathleen Wynne to remain as leader?
 Kathleen Wynne: Will she stay on the stage if she wins the provincial election in June? She has fought the good fight and she has weathered some storms – will she want to serve another four year term as leader of the Liberal party?
And how many of the younger members of her Cabinet are going to want to continue to wait for their chance to grab that brass ring?
There are at least four that will want to jump in.
Ontario is not looking at just a new Progressive Conservative leader – it is looking at a sea change in the demographic that is going to lead the province.
Interesting and confusing times ahead.
Salt with Pepper reflects the views, observations and opinions of the Gazette Publisher.
By Staff
February 19th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
At 12:16 am Halton Regional Police were dealing with a barricaded subject in Burlington.
The incident started as a domestic situation at a Milton restaurant. The subject left the restaurant and was seen driving away. His vehicle was located shortly thereafter at his residence on Colonsay Drive in Burlington.
Officers from Burlington who responded to the residence were threatened by the subject with a firearm. He then retreated back into his home.
The male was observed with one weapon as he threatened officers and he is believed to have several more inside the house.
Officers have sealed off the home and are maintaining a perimeter. The Tactical Rescue Unit, K9 and a negotiator have been dispatched to the scene and are currently making attempts to have the subject, who is alone in the home, surrender.
As a precaution, Halton Police are asking residents on Colonsay Drive, St. Frances Drive, Peart Court and Augustine Drive to remain inside and lock their doors.
Updates will be issued as developments occur.
 By Staff
February 19th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
 The snowfall was heavy the past three weeks – the sudden rise in temperatures means that snow is going to melt faster than normal and fill the 13 creeks that run through the city from the Escarpment to the lake.
Conservation Halton advises that Environment Canada is forecasting steady periods of rainfall for Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday associated with a Low Pressure system. Numerical weather models are currently indicating that our jurisdiction could see upwards of 30 to 40mm of precipitation over that time period. In addition to the precipitation, models are predicting double digit temperatures Monday overnight into Tuesday morning without a return to below freezing temperatures until Thursday.
 Children can be near water as long as there are parents very close by. Based on the forecast of mild temperatures and rainfall, combined with the anticipated melt of our existing snowpack, we may experience an increase in flows and water levels in our creeks throughout Halton. In addition, the snowpack melt may contribute to blockages at bridges and culverts and produce localized flooding concerns in low lying areas. Areas of historic ice jam impacts including Lowville and Lower Grindstone Creek should be particularly aware during this event.
Widespread flooding is not currently anticipated. Our reservoirs are currently at winter holding levels which allows for larger storage capacity for circumstances of this nature.
 Heavy snow in the past three weeks. Conservation Halton is asking all residents and children to keep a safe distance from all watercourses and structures such as bridges, culverts and dams. Elevated water levels, fast flowing water, and slippery conditions along stream banks continue to make these locations extremely dangerous. Please alert children in your care of these imminent dangers.
Conservation Halton will continue to monitor stream and weather conditions and will issue an update to this Watershed Condition Statement –Water Safety message as conditions warrant.
This Watershed Condition Statement will be in effect through Wednesday February 21st, 2018.
 By Pepper Parr
February 18th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
There was provision in the construction budget for a harsh winter. And we have had several harsh days and a lot more snow than many wanted.
But the weather does not appear to have slowed down the construction that will expand the Joseph Brant Museum from its current 50000 square feet to 17,000 sq. ft.
 Brant Museum with holes cut out in the foundation ready for the steel beams that will move the house a short distance. The Joseph Brant house is a replica of the house Mohawk native Joseph Brant, Thayendanegea, built on a 1798 Crown land grant.
The expansion by contractor Aquicon Construction, on behalf of the City of Burlington, will add more than 12,000 square feet to its current size that will the Museum to become a cultural destination and a place to host national exhibitions and the collection of artifacts. Or so we are told.
 Brant Museum as it is expected to look like when construction is completed in 2019. The current 5,000-square-foot museum will be expanded to provide barrier-free space for gallery displays, interactive programming, the storage of collections and community outreach.
Construction will take 18 months, depending on weather
The total project amount is approved at about $11 million, which includes a contingency fund and allows for cost increases due to a winter construction period. Funding includes:
$2.9 million from the City of Burlington
$4.5 million from the Government of Canada
$1.5 million from the Province of Ontario
$2.5 million from the Joseph Brant Museum Foundation
 Retaining wall on the west side of the Brant Museum site is being put in place. The museum has 25,000 artifacts and receives about 18,000 visitors a year. The new space will meet all the display and security criteria to attract national travelling exhibits. Put quotation marks around that “about 18,000 visitors a year and then add a question mark.
 Sturdy sell beams that will be slid under the Brant House and then moved by heavy duty equipment to the resting spot while construction of the 12,000 addition is completed. The current museum will be moved in the weeks ahead to a spot adjacent to the construction so that the creation of the great hall that will be underground can be built.
Then the house will get moved back to where it will remain for some time to come.
This house has been moved a number of times – the title to the land was a bit of a land registry challenge; it was in the hands of the hospital in trust and is now believed to be back in the hands of either the city or the Museum Foundation.
 Joseph Brant – Mohawk warrior, Captain in the British army – Thayendanegea to his people. Joseph Brant, Thayendanegea, lived from 1742 to 1807 but never lived in the house that is being moved around. In 1798, the Mohawk warrior and British captain was granted 3,450 acres at the head-of-the-lake (Burlington Bay) by King George the third.
The site is now a muddy construction site that will see the house get a number of bright blue steel beams slid underneath the foundation so it can be lifted and moved. These are always delicate procedures.
The plan is to have the site completed sometime in 2019.
No word yet on what the public can expect in the way of program for the expanded museum which is a little odd – the kind of exhibits that move from location to location are usually scheduled years in advance. The museum does not appear to have any plans to do any original programing.
This project is a good example of collaboration between the city, the federal and provincial governments and the Burlington Museums Foundation. There were a lot of bumps along the way.
 On site almost daily during the second construction of the Pier was the late Gordie Tapp checking on the progress. Here he talks with Pier Project Manager Craig Stevens. Craig Stevens is the city lead on the project; he is the city hall staffer who took over the construction of the second attempt to get The Pier built. He also brought in the Performing Arts Centre – on time and on budget.
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By Staff
February 16th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
 The Halton Regional Police Service is currently investigating a familial related stabbing incident on Bunkerhill Place in Burlington.
One victim has been transported to hospital with serious injuries and one person is in police custody. There are no outstanding suspects or concerns for the community.
No further information available at this time.
 By Ray Rivers
February 16th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
It is easy to see why a jury of his peers might sympathize with Gerald Stanley. The cattle farmer near Biggar Saskatchewan had shot and killed a young man who had driven onto his land uninvited. Imagine if four strangers suddenly roared up to your farm house in a ratty old SUV, went poking around into your garage and fired up a piece of your equipment as if it was their own. They were trespassing, apparently argumentative and clearly disrespectful.
It is not clear what the youths had in mind when they drove up to the Stanley farm house. Nor is it clear that they hadn’t just wanted Stanley, who operated a small auto repair shop, to fix their flat tire. There is evidence they had been drinking and that they had earlier tried to break into a neighbour’s vehicle. So they may well have been up to no-good.
 Colten Boushie But none of that excuses the killing of young Colten Boushie, who lived on a Cree reserve about an hour’s drive away. Stanley had several weapons in his possession, including the hand gun which killed Boushie, so he clearly understood something about guns. He claims the weapon fired accidentally, an action which couldn’t be replicated in tests by a crime lab. Handguns are restricted weapons requiring registration and have strict storage requirements, but Stanley was also careless about how he stored his guns.
Stanley had used the handgun over the years, he said, to scare wildlife off his farm. Clearly the noise from a starter pistol would have been just as effective, unless he had intended to also kill the wildlife. And it sadly begs the question of whether he regarded these indigenous youth as just more wildlife, which he had hoped to scare off when he fired bullets into the air.
 Gerald Stanley – acquitted. Gerald Stanley was acquitted of responsibility for that killing, something which has outraged the aboriginal community, civil rights lawyers and the federal government. Mr. Trudeau and his justice minister have promised to make changes to our legal prosecution system and/or jury selection process as a result of the trial. But that won’t bring back Mr. Boushie, nor prevent this kind of incident from happening again. Nor will it heal the wounds for Boushie’s family and his fellow band members, nor indeed for the Stanley family who have not escaped this sad event without some kind of trauma.
Improving the fairness of our judicial system is always a good idea. But if that involves mandatory inclusion of indigenous jurors in these kinds of trials, that may precipitate an explosion of demand for culturally populated juries from now on. Muslims for example, may demand representation on a jury when one of their own is accused or victimized. Will that lead to a quota system as the basis for jury selection? And will multiculturalism then take precedence over the blind execution of justice?
Wouldn’t it be better for the Trudeau government to take action to reduce the chances of this kind of incident repeating itself, rather than shifting the discussion to how the courts process the consequences? The government could focus on what killed Mr. Boushie – the gun. The only purpose of a handgun is to kill people. Why not ban all handguns in this country, except those used by law enforcement officers.
Boushie apparently also had a firearm, a 22 calibre rifle in poor condition but still loaded with bullets in the chamber. It was not a part of the actual conflict but it is also telling about the gun culture spreading in this country from the contagion south of the border. One wonders how this incident might have evolved had Boushie had a chance to discharge that weapon in self-defence.
 The sign makes the statement. There is much less regulation and consideration over Canada’s firearms now that the nation’s long gun registry has been destroyed. It’s elimination was a political action to satisfy western gun owners, presumably like Stanley, despite appeals to the contrary by virtually all law enforcement agencies and most of Canada’s provinces. We register our cars and dogs but not our long guns.
Stanley’s ‘scare wildlife’ comment is telling, since it highlights the extent of racism that still exists concerning Canada’s aboriginals, particularly in the western provinces. He may not consider himself a racist but the question remains whether he would have pursued the same aggressive tactics were the invaders non-aboriginals.
The jury declined to pronounce Stanley guilty of even manslaughter, let alone the greater charge of second degree murder which the prosecution had been calling for. Stanley had every right to suspect the trespassers on his property were up to no good and may have felt threatened by their presence. And he had every right to evict them, which it appears he had done as they were in the process of leaving when the incident culminated in Boushie’s death.
 The trigger on this pistol had to be pulled for the gun to fire. The evidence that Stanley’s gun accidentally went off as he claimed was clearly rebutted during the trial, but even if it hadn’t been, the gun that killed Boushie was in his hand the whole time.
The jury may have been motivated to find for the defendant because of the colour of his skin, or not. And they clearly believed Stanley had been in the right, that he had done no wrong. Yet it is hard to understand how any reasonable person would not have called this manslaughter. That is what happened after all – a slaughter of that young man.
 Ray Rivers writes weekly on both federal and provincial politics, applying his more than 25 years as a federal bureaucrat to his thinking. Rivers was once a candidate for provincial office in Burlington. He was the founder of the Burlington citizen committee on sustainability at a time when climate warming was a hotly debated subject. Tweet @rayzrivers
Background links:
What happened – Trial – Response to Verdict –
More response to Verdict – Historic Perspective – Weapon Malfunction –
Background – Even More Verdict – Trudeau Response –
Firearms Charges – Jury Selection –
 By Pepper Parr
February 16th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
Was it fake news?
Was it legitimate comment?
Or was it a mischievous cat that had eaten too much catnip and is now out of control?
We published a piece on just how the city found itself before the Ontario Municipal Board on the original ADI Development Group application to put up a high rise tower on the corner of Martha and Lakeshore road in 2015.
That article included a link to a story that had Ward 2 Councillor Marianne Meed Ward exchanging views with Tom Muir who had challenged the explanation Meed Ward had given as to why the city missed the 180 timeline for processing development applications.
 Pat Westbury, a Gazette reader took that link and posted it on the ECoB web site. Nothing wrong with that.
But then we got a note via Facebook from the reader who identified himseslf/herself as Pat Westbury who at 11:04am on Friday sent us the following:
Interesting, this same 2015 article from the Gazette was posted on the ECOB Facebook page. They marked it as spam and despite being informed it wasn’t, they deleted the article. Very telling actions from a group that aspires to represent residents. Just another special interest group ?
Was EcoB deleting material we had published from their web site? We sent them a note asking what the message meant? Any truth to this we asked?
Our EcoB contact got back to us and said:
I am the only one with access to the Facebook page and have no idea what you are talking about. Give me a call if you want, maybe it was a visitor post and that person took it down?
A few minutes later the ECoB contact added:
So I just looked it up and the comment was posted 2 hours ago by a person under the name of Pat Westbury. It looks like Pat has made the comment only visible to her/him and me (ECoB Facebook admin). I haven’t been on Facebook all day so it was most definitely “Pat” who hid the comment unless someone else can mark it as spam but it certainly wasn’t me and there is no notification of someone else marking it as spam. I think I would be notified if someone else marked a comment on my page as spam.
This Pat Westbury has been a mystery to us….no friends on Facebook, opened account in November I believe and has over the top privacy settings.
An hour after the initial link was posted (not sure when it was made private) someone using the name John Was posted the link again. Very smelly indeed.
The Gazette has had dealings with Mr. Was in the past. We had to ask that he no longer comment on the Gazette web site.
At 10:20 pm on Friday we heard from Pat again:
This is visible only to me and ECOB. “Your comment was marked as spam. Show comment” When I click on “Show comment” it tells me comment deleted. Shenanigans, or just censoring comments? Either way not very credible.
Pat wasn’t giving up.
We now knew who was behind the shenanigans
It was an attempt at fake news – is it a sign on how the municipal election is going to be played out.
Civil civic comments only please. Let’s always hold each other accountable.
 By Pepper Parr
February 16th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
Thinking of running for council? City Hall has some advice
The municipal election on October 22 brings great opportunities for residents to connect with local government by voting or running for City Council, which is the ultimate civic engagement.
 City has created a smart looking logo for the 2018 municipal election. If you are a potential candidate, here are some tips on where to get helpful information:
Go straight to the source. The City of Burlington, the Province of Ontario and a number of municipal associations, including the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, have great information. Visit Burlington’s Election 2018 web pages.
Attend workshops and information sessions hosted by experts. The municipal clerk’s office at the City of Burlington is your go-to place for election information. The election team will help you prepare for what to expect on a personal and professional level as a council member, how changes to the Municipal Elections Act will affect this year’s election and what your responsibilities are under the Municipal Elections Act.
Mark your calendar for April 18 in Oakville. The City of Burlington is co-hosting an information session for residents who are interested in running in the 2018 Municipal Election. “So you want to run for Council?” takes place at Oakville Town Hall from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, April 18. The free session will be led by municipal lawyer Fred Dean.
File your nomination papers between May 1 and July 27. You must be 18 years or older, a Canadian citizen and live in Burlington, own land here or be the spouse of someone who does. More information and candidate criteria are available at the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing’s website.
That previous paragraph is highlighted because it isn’t as clear as it should be. Read as it is – it implies that if you are single and live in an apartment you cannot be a candidate.
With the word or placed before the word own it would be clearer.
The AMO web site sets out who can run very clearly.
- 18 years of age or older
- a Canadian citizen; and
- either a resident of the municipality or a property owner or tenant or the spouse or same sex partner of an owner or tenant in the municipality during a specified time just before the election.
The Gazette reached out to the City Clerk for clarification – she didn’t reach back.
Jack Dennison, who is part of the geography in ward 4 has a practice of filing his nomination papers very late in the game – keeping anyone who wants to challenge him at bay for a period of time. In order to defeat Dennison a candidate should be organized by now and ready to hit the road running.
 City Clerk Angela Morgan will oversee the municipal election and sign the document that makes the winners official. Angela Morgan, City Clerk did say that “An election is the ultimate opportunity for residents to engage with local government. I am encouraged by the enthusiasm we see in those who host information sessions or provide information on the web. We also want to ensure that voters and potential candidates get the critical information they need, and that those who wish to run for City Council have a positive experience.”
One Gazette reader said: “It is one thing for an organization like ECoB to be promoting new candidates to run for office, But the City? Could make residents think that the city feels that new faces are needed on Council.
Information links:
City of Burlington Election 2018 web page
AMO – Association of Municipalities in Ontario web site
By Staff
February 16, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
Sharing Experiences is a biennial one day capacity-building workshop for individuals and community groups interested in creating positive environmental change.
This year’s workshop will be held on Saturday, March 3, 2018, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. at the Puslinch Community Centre at 23 Brock Road South, Puslinch ON N0B 2J0.
The goal of the workshop is to link like-minded people and groups to facilitate the sharing of ideas and experiences so that participants can build skills, network and share ideas about environmental projects in their respective communities. The workshop includes presentations, panel discussions and small breakout sessions delivered and facilitated by knowledgeable and experienced members of the environmental community.
 Canada C3’s epic journey sailed from Toronto to Victoria via the Northwest Passage to inspire a deeper understanding of our land, our peoples and our country. Learn about the people we met, the places we visited and the conversations that took place across reconciliation, the environment, youth engagement, and diversity and inclusion at CanadaC3.ca This year’s workshop features Keynote Speaker James Raffan, his talk is titled Our Home on Native Land. In 2017, James Raffan was involved in four epic sesquicentennial journeys that included paddling the Rideau Canal from Kingston to Ottawa, a circumnavigation of Canada from Toronto to Victoria via the Northwest Passage, a ship-based youth expedition from Resolute Nunavut to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland and a quick trip to the North Pole from Murmansk, Russia aboard the world’s most powerful nuclear icebreaker.
 Raffan is involved in a student scholarship program that makes it possible for emerging environmentalists to tour the far North. With wonderful people in faraway places, he pondered climate change, canoes, youth engagement, the national anthem, diversity and inclusion, tolerance, reconciliation and home. Join one of Canada’s great storytellers for thought-provoking reflection on Canada 150 and beyond.
There is a fee of $15 for the workshop which includes lunch and breakfast. You can find the link to register on the Sharing Experiences workshop page – www.conservationhalton.ca/sharing-experiences-2018.
The organizing team is comprised of Conservation Halton, Credit Valley Conservation, Friends of Mill Creek, Grand River Conservation Authority, Green Venture, Halton Environmental Network, Hamilton Conservation Authority, and the Iroquoia Bruce Trail Club.
This event is sponsored by Conservation Halton Foundation and Little Mushroom Catering.
 Dr. James Raffan – a Kickass Canadian with a passion for the North. Dr. James Raffan is a writer, geographer and Kickass Canadian (kickasscanadians.ca/james-raffan/) with a passion for the North. He is a Fellow of the Explorers Club, Past Chair of the Arctic Institute of North America as well as a Fellow and Past Governor of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, earning the Queen’s Golden and Diamond Jubilee medals, the RCGS Camsell Medal, and, most recently, Canada’s Meritorious Service Medal from Governor General Julie Payette
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A Provincial Policy Statement is issued under section 3 of the Planning Act. The 2014 Statement became effective April 30, 2014 and applies to planning decisions made on or after that date. It replace the Provincial Policy Statement, 2005.
