Coyote report from the city manager has a number of Staff Directions that Council will be asked to approve

By Staff

September 7th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The coyote report is out.

It is a 16 page document with a number of appendices.

The Directions council is being asked to approve on the 14th are as follows:

Receive city manager’s office report CM-26-22 – City of Burlington Coyote Response Strategy update and, with regard to the City’s immediate response to the recent serious coyote attacks on Burlington residents, endorse the actions taken by staff under established authority as outlined in the report at an estimated 2022 one-time cost of
$22,850; and

Approve the single source of a Certified Wildlife Professional (CWP) and authorize the Manager of Procurement Services to sign a multi-year agreement with the CWP for the remainder of 2022 and the duration of 2023, with the option to renew for three (3) additional one (1) year terms; and

Direct the Director of Building and By-law to proceed immediately with the design and implementation of a new two-year Coyote Action and Awareness Program specifically directed at delivering enhanced coyote response services based on the program scope outlined in city manager’s office report CM-26-22; and

Direct the Chief Financial Officer to report back to City Council directly on September 20, 2022 with options and recommendations for funding the new Coyote Action and Awareness Program; and

Direct the Executive Director of Community Planning, Regulation and Mobility to report back in Q1 2023 in conjunction with City Council’s 2023 budget consideration on the

establishment of the proposed new By-Law Compliance Department (as recommended in companion report CM-24-22 in this agenda) inclusive of an enhanced coyote response model as part of the Animal Services function; and

Direct the Executive Director of Community Planning, Regulation and Mobility, following the hiring of a new Director of By-law Compliance, to undertake a full review and update of the current City of Burlington Animal Services By-law (By-law 60-2005) and Coyote Response Strategy by Q4 2023; and

Direct the City Manager, with respect to the February 2022 report, specifically the recommendations of the community association – Burlington & Oakville Coyote Management (BOCM) as outlined in Appendix B of city manager’s office report CM-26- 22, to proceed with the implementation of the staff recommendations and next steps and report back on the status in Q1 2023; and

Direct the City Manager to initiate meetings, as required, with the Chief Administrative Officer of the Town of Oakville and senior staff of both Burlington and Oakville to develop and implement a coordinated workplan related to both the BOCM recommendations as well as other City/Town coyote response initiatives including, but not limited to, joint procurement of external professional wildlife management services, joint coyote related data collection, research and analysis and public educational and awareness programs and possible mutual coyote response service agreements; and

Direct the City Manager and Chief Financial Officer to include for consideration in the 2023 proposed budget the recommended resources to fully address all of the above noted service delivery requirements for an enhanced coyote action and awareness program.

For reasons that are not yet clear, and probably never will be, there hasn’t been a report sent to the community at large.  The material above is a report the City Manager presents to Council.

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Round Up of Ontario Casino Apps

By Frederikke Reis

September 8th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Casimoose.ca has put together a list of the best casino apps available in Ontario so you can enjoy your favorite games on the go.

The overall user experience.is what matters most – if you’re not having fun – why bother

Are the online casino apps free to download?

There is a wide range of Ontario casino apps at casinoose.ca, and many of them are free to download. They offer a variety of games, with an extra feeling of Vegas live casinos, plus many bonuses and promo codes. However, it is important to check the terms and conditions of each app before you start using it, as some may require you to make a deposit before you can start playing.

How do the online casino apps work?

The online casino apps work by allowing you to play casino games on your mobile device. You can either download the app from the App Store and Google Play or play directly from the casino’s website. However, some of Ontario’s online casinos have not yet developed their apps. It’s worth remembering that apps consume a lot of space on your phone’s memory and can be loaded with commercials, so maybe playing games at online casinos on mobile browsers can be a good idea.

How do online casino apps compare to one another?

You can gamble on line with friends who are gambling on the same site at the same time. Try it with half a dozen people – great fun!

There are a few key factors to consider when comparing online casino apps. The first is the overall user experience. This includes things like how easy it is to navigate the app, how user-friendly the interface is, and whether or not there are any glitches or bugs. The second factor to consider is the selection of games offered. Some apps may have a more limited selection than others, so it’s important to find one that provides the types of games you’re interested in playing. Finally, you’ll want to consider the bonuses and promotions offered by each app. Some may offer better deals than others, so it’s worth taking a look at what each one has to offer before making your final decision.

What are the best casino apps in Ontario?

There are a few different casino apps that are popular in Ontario. The most popular ones include 888 Casino, Royal Panda, Leo Vegas, and Pokerstars. All of these apps offer a variety of games, including slots, table games, blackjack and more.

What are the features of the online casino apps?

There are a few key features to look for when choosing an online casino app.

First, you want to make sure that the app is compatible with your device. Most casino apps will work with iOS and Android devices, but a few are only compatible with one or the other.

Next, you want to ensure that the app offers a wide variety of games. While most casino apps will offer slots and table games, some will also offer sports betting, bingo, and more. The more game options an app has, the more likely you will find something you enjoy playing.

Secure encryption is vital. It is there to protect you.

Finally, you want to make sure that the app is safe and secure. When dealing with real money, you want to ensure that your information is safe. Look for an app that uses SSL encryption to protect your data.

What are the pros and cons of each online casino app?

There are a few things to consider when choosing an online casino app. The first is whether you want to play for real money or just for fun. If you’re playing for real money, you’ll need to make sure the app is licensed and regulated by a reputable gaming commission. You’ll also want to ensure the app offers a good selection of games and a user-friendly interface.

If you’re just playing for fun, there are still a few things to consider. You’ll want to ensure the app has a good selection of games and is easy to use. You may also want to look for an app that offers bonuses or other perks, such as VIP programs or loyalty rewards.

Casino apps are a great way to enjoy your favourite casino games on the go. Here is a round-up of some of the best casino apps available in Ontario.

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Live Casino Dealers: Who Are They, And What Are Their Roles?

By Kevin N. Cochran

September 8th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Online casinos first made an appearance in the late 90s. The internet was still in its early stages, and gaming companies like Microgaming were already using the exciting technology to provide online casino games to thousands across the globe. A few years later, the idea of live gaming was introduced but failed to gain popularity owing to the poor speed of internet connection at the time.

The presenters are a large part of the online experience

But over the years, the internet has evolved, and speed is no longer a barrier. Millions of smartphones are also available and, live casino games have become a norm. Now, you can easily access the live casino   games with just a single click.

However, live gaming is only possible thanks to the live casino dealers, and here we’ll look into their various roles and responsibilities. But before playing live or virtual casino games, you should understand how it all works. That’s why experts like Kevin N. Cochran regularly provide gamblers with tips and guidance to help them maximize their gambling experience.

Who Are Live Game Dealers?
If you know about live dealers, then you definitely must have heard about live casinos. But if you’re not, worry not; we’ve got you covered.

Live casino is a niche of online gambling where players play their favorite games with real-life dealers instead of computer software.

Basically, the games are streamed from a land-based casino or studio, and players connect to the live stream and place wagers against a real dealer.

Examples of games you can play include Baccarat, Blackjack, and Roulette. For Roulette, you connect to the stream and place your bets using virtual chips; the presenter then spins the wheel to determine the outcome of your wager.

Some online casinos even allow players to communicate with themselves and the presenter during games. The presenters are also referred to as live casino dealers. They also go by other names like:

Game hosts
Table hosts
Card dealers
Games presenter.

But whichever name they go by, their functions are usually the same. Below, we’ll look at some of the roles of a table host.

What Are The Roles Of A Live Casino Dealer?
The main function of a live casino dealer is to host the games. There are different types of games, so their functions might differ a bit, but generally, their job is to take control of the table and handle the games.

As we’ve stated already, dealers in games like roulette are basically there to spin the table’s wheel and call out the game’s result. This is also the case in dice games, where they only have to roll the dice and announce the result.

However, the host is a lot more involved in more complex games like card games, baccarat, and blackjack. The cards are usually shuffled automatically by a card shuffler, so the host is charged with dealing with the cards during rounds and calling out results. Usually, only one dealer hosts a table, but they sometimes switch between tables. Here are some of the most common live casino games with dealers.

Baccarat
Roulette
Sic Bo
Poker
Craps.

What Does It Take To Become A Live Casino Dealer?
The live casino industry is very competitive, and only the best are selected for hosting roles. Below is a list of requirements for anyone aspiring to become a game presenter.

1. Age and Identification
Before being employed as a table host, you must show proof of your identity. It could be through a government-issued ID or any other means available in your country.

Also, most gaming houses will not employ people under 21, especially in the US and Europe. However, some use the 18-year limit. So it mostly depends on the country the platform is located.

People often play online in groups.

2. Education and Past Experience
Though education is not necessarily a requirement for a game hosting position, most employers require a minimum of a High school diploma. There’s also no need for experience, although it will definitely improve your chances.

Most dealers are young people, so they usually lack experience. As a result, selected hosts undergo extensive training to fully induct them into the industry.

3. Other Skills
Aside from meeting the age requirement, you’ll need to be proficient in the casino’s required language. There’s also a need to have good communication and entertaining skills.

The Bottom Line
Playing live casinos with dealers can be a fun way to recreate the thrills of a land-based gaming establishment. They offer an option to play your favorite games without playing against computer software.

However, these games are only possible thanks to the online game presenters. They handle the tables and are in charge of spinning wheels, rolling dice, and dealing cards.

To become a game presenter, you’ll need to be at least 18 or 21 in some countries. Also, you have to possess good communication and language skills.

Live dealers are an integral part of live casino gaming. Here’s everything you need to know about them.

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Are we about to get another round of election based robo calls ?

By Pepper |Parr

September 5th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Do you remember those robo calls the last time we went to the polls municipally?

They were quite nasty and resulted in criminal complaints being made, an investigation by the Ontario Provincial Police and charges laid that were for the most part dropped.

The Mayor was sued, and we believe that matter is still before the Courts – the city hall communications people don’t put out media releases on that matter.

Marianne Meed Ward accepting applause from her supporters the night she knew she was going to be sworn in as Mayor

What we do know is that the Mayor has in the recent past declared a conflict of interest when discussions, held in closed session, about just how much the legal department is spending.

We might be about to get another round of robo calls if a message sent out to the candidates is any indicator.

One candidate sent us the following:

As you are well aware, yesterday- September 1st was the first day that Voters’ Lists were made available to all municipal candidates. If you picked up your voters’ list, you would have noticed that telephone numbers were not included. This is where we can help. You can order a match and append of all phone numbers from various directories to your voters’ list.
Please inquire today on pricing for our match and append telephone directory service to the Voters’ List.

I can be reached at 416-816-0443 or via email — ferd@bellwethertechnologies.ca

One candidate asks:

City Clerk Kevin Arjoon – candidate has a question for him on the voters list.

“Is this not an inappropriate use of Voters Lists ?” The candidate goes on to say the the Clerk’s Office was asked just that question and then added: “If not answered I will be looking for an answer at the Zoom Candidates meeting September 6, 2022 at 6pm.

A meeting via Zoom for the candidates? Is the public invited? And if not – why not?

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Rib Fest had a great first day - citizens talked about coyote problem - visitors loved the event

By Katelyn Goodwin

September 3rd, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

While covering the Rotary Rib Fest at Spencer Smith Park on Friday I talked to some of the people about the recent coyote attacks reported in south central Burlington.

Signs and whistles were the tools the city was using to combat the coyote problem.

While many folks come from outside the city simply to enjoy the Rib Fest, there are those residing within Burlington and on the outskirts who are aware of these attacks and were aware of what the city is doing to manage the problem.

Those from outside Burlington are aware of the attacks, though unaware of how the city is handling them.

For the most part residents believe the city is doing all they can and should educate people on the issue; some think the city cannot do a whole lot more than they already are – others claim they are providing minimal info and should be providing more.

Other people noted the distribution of whistles for the use of ‘hazing’ wild animals they may encounter, saying it was a decent solution for the time being.

Two women had many thoughts to share on the subject. One believed a reason for the sudden aggressive behaviour in coyotes stemmed from the issue of some people feeding wild animals, causing them to become more territorial. She also believed the elimination of the coyote suspected to have been the one that bit and scratched the leg of an eighteen-year-old girl south of Lakeshore Road as well as attack a two and a half-year-old toddler was ‘unfortunate, but necessary’.

While she stated she did not enjoy hearing about the elimination of any animal, she did not want any other residents or children injured by them, or any small pets attacked and killed.

It was the new normal everyone wanted. Few masks in sight.

The other woman said she felt sorry for the coyotes, believing us to have taken more of their habitat/territory away, though acknowledged what had to be done under city orders to take safety precautions. She was particularly concerned about the uncharacteristic aggression in the animals suddenly, calling it ‘worrying behaviour’.

As noted, there are differing thoughts from both Burlington residents and residents outside the city about these unprovoked coyote attacks and what the city is doing to manage the problem even during an enjoyable event such as the Rib Fest, with people coming to their own conclusions on what is being done/needs to be done to resolve the problem.

The interesting thing about asking people questions at a large public event is the answers you get. One woman from New York city was in town visiting and decided to take in the Rib Fest to see what it was like.

This is what brings them back to Burlington’s Rotary Rib Fest!

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Guide for beginners on what the VDR is

By Bradley Elston

September 20, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Learn the main idea and concept of a Virtual data room. What is it and what purposes such software is used for?
Virtual Data Room: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

All sorts of file storage facilities are commonly used to store documents: a personal computer or various systems like Google Drive. As long as files are locked away from prying eyes, they are quite secure. But how to protect them if you need to give access to a limited number of people you don’t know well? For example, confidential documents in various transactions, some financial reports, or documents related to tax or audit audits.

There are many similar examples when it is important to provide access to the documents, on the one hand, and to make sure they are not leaked or the person who leaked them will be found, on the other hand.

VDRs (virtual data rooms) are used for secure data exchange. They allow delimiting rights and access to the documents inside the system, creating a clear structure and organizing easy exchange and work with files both inside the organization (synchronization with AD/LDAP) and during interaction with contractors.

The data room offers a standard set of tools, such as viewing documents, downloading, sending for printing, sharing, etc. Protection of files inside VDRs is provided by differentiation of user rights, control of document lifetime, and logging of events. But the question is how to be sure that the information will not leak into the public domain, and how to identify the culprit in case of leakage.

Check the virtual data room review to get more information about this software.

The existence of clouds has made it possible for data to be accessed by almost anyone anywhere. With a Virtual Data Room that data is secure – rock solid secure.

What is VDR?
A virtual data room is a tool, usually set up for a specific time and purpose, that gives authorized users access to a secure database of documents, according to their permit rights.

Why is It Important to Use?

Initially, virtual data rooms were created as an alternative to physical data rooms in due diligence procedures during mergers and acquisitions. Before the era of broadband Internet access, the familiarization of possible parties to a transaction with documents was as follows:

● The seller would allocate or lease one or more rooms into which folders of paper documents would be taken down, and write down the rent or lost profits from the misuse of the rooms as an expense item.
● A schedule of room visits and paperwork for potential buyers (beaders) was drawn up, which, if their number was substantial, greatly increased the transaction time.
● If the beaders were from another city or country, their representatives went on business trips to world cultural centers and to industrial regions, wasting time on the road and money on higher travel expenses.

But the virtual data room solves the problem of time, cost, and convenience of accessing documents.

Currently, virtual data room services accompany the activities of companies in other areas, from providing information to partners of investment funds to obtaining certificates for medicines, that is, everywhere where it is necessary to provide convenient access to confidential information for a certain circle of people who may be thousands of kilometers away from each other.

How Can a Virtual Data Room Protect the Data?
A virtual dataroom can be used in almost any situation where a company needs to provide simultaneous access to confidential information to several people:

● Analyzing corporate records;
● Creation of document archive;
● Audit;
● Preparation of an initial public offering (IPO);
● Help with mergers and acquisitions;
● Searching and providing information for investors.

The technology works in the following way: any interaction with a document (opening, downloading, sending for printing, sending by mail attachment, etc.) provides the user with a personal labelled copy. The copy is visually indistinguishable from the original, the markings are not visible to the naked eye, and can only be recognized using a forensic tool. In addition to the invisible marking the document is assigned the following attributes: employee ID, time, date, IP, location, etc.

If there is a leakage, the compromised document is loaded into the system and its labelling is compared with the original document available in the system for analysis. As a result, the system identifies the most similar copy and its owner. Thus, allowing you to find the potential culprit of the leak.

Such a solution can be used for critical business events: mergers and acquisitions, audits, and IPO preparation handling the personal information of public persons, as well as for intellectual property protection.

The name “the cloud” actually describes a room full of servers that hold data and make it available via the internet.

While a person is working in the VDR, a system is recording every copy of the document. In case even a small fragment of text of any document stored in such an electronic data room is compromised, the owner can conduct an examination and unambiguously discover the name of the person who published it without consent. Such marking is absolutely invisible to users and nothing changes in their usual processes.

Market projections for VDR services is very positive.

Whether or not to tell employees or counterparties working in such a VDR about the presence of invisible marking is the right of the owner of the virtual room. On the one hand, this can immediately become a preventive psychological measure to protect documents. On the other hand, if the task is to identify an already existing insider, it is possible not to report about the technology.

Conclusion
A virtual room is a space where documents are sorted into folders, and all participants have a certain level of access rights. They can download files, and upload and share them only with permission. This format of use allows organizing convenient collaboration within different business processes.

VDR can save your company time and effort. When it comes to business effectiveness, every feature helps. The use of the dataroom software allows convenient managing of important corporate information and team collaboration. Also, it is more secure than usual file-sharing systems. So VDR is a smart solution for your business.

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City Manager will meet with Stephen White (virtually) then a larger group later in the day

By Pepper Parr

August 31st, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Has it all really come to this:

A Hamilton radio station is reported to have referred to the Burlington Coyote problem as “whistlegate”

Whatever happened to the best mid-sized city in the country to lIve in?

Other than the city and some of the Councillors handing out whistles to anyone who passes by, there was the sense that nothing was going to get done until the middle of September when a report was to be presented at a Standing committee.

City Manager Tim Commisso

Not so – there is to be a meeting on Thursday with Stephen While, one of the authors of the Burlington Oakville Coyote Management report and the City Manager to be followed by another meeting later in the day that appears to include a larger participation.

If all the members of Councillor are on the call – would that make it a meeting of Council ? – perhaps the City Clerk might want to rule on that.  Nothing on the city calendar at this point.

There is no agenda that the Gazette is aware of – however this would be a perfect opportunity to verbally ask the questions he put to the city when his report was first made public – something, by the way, that the Gazette first published.

The five questions were:

 

1) Why does BOCM have to wait over six months for City of Burlington officials to read BOCM’s Report and provide comments and feedback on our recommendations?

2)            Why did Nick Anastasopoulos say that our Report had not been sent to Coyote Watch, but Rosemary Fitzpatrick advised us in mid-May that is what had occurred?

3)            Why did Tim Commisso say in a June 2nd meeting that he would get back to us with a response shortly, but we are still waiting?  How long are we expected to wait?

4)            Why did Nick Anastasopoulos feel it was all right to forward a Report created by an outside advocacy group to another third party advocacy group without our prior knowledge or approval?

5)            Why does City Hall not have a formal, established process for reviewing Reports and recommendations from outside entities and organizations?

While this whole business is an embarrassment – there is as well a serious public safety issue that many don’t feel is going to be solved with people blowing a whistle when a coyote is spotted.

The upside is that there do not appear to be anymore reports of people being attacked by a coyote.  Was it just the one animal? With at one “eliminated”?

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Arrests made in Drug and Gun Investigation

By Staff

August 29th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

On August 26th, 2022, members of the Halton Regional Police Service Drug and Human Trafficking Unit (DHTU) concluded a two-month investigation in relation to a drug trafficking network based in the Town of Halton Hills that spanned across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

Between August 25th and 26th 2022, three Controlled Drugs and Substances Act Search Warrants were executed at residences in Georgetown and Toronto. Investigators seized:

• A loaded 9mm Taurus G3C handgun.
• A loaded fully automatic 9mm Glock 26 handgun
• Three additional loaded magazines which included a prohibited capacity magazine.
• 290 rounds of 9mm ammunition.
• Approximately: 330 grams of Cocaine, 80 grams of Fentanyl, 95 grams of Methamphetamine (Crystal Meth), 332 Oxycodone pills, 260 Xanax pills, 30 Hydromorphone pills, and 8 grams of crack cocaine.
• Bundled Canadian Currency estimated at approximately $15,000.

“The modified fully automatic nature of the firearm seized in this investigation illustrates a disturbing trend in the lengths individuals will go to protect their illicit drug trafficking networks. This investigation illustrates our officers’ dedication in interdicting these firearms and drugs, and holding those engaged in these reprehensible acts accountable,” says Inspector Dave Costantini, Halton Regional Police Intelligence, Drugs and Human Trafficking.

Six individuals were subsequently arrested and charged for their alleged involvement. The following individuals have been charged:

Aristotle Berlanguet (20) of Georgetown
• Careless use of a Firearm
• Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
• Possession of a Restricted Firearm with Ammunition
• Trafficking a controlled substance (Cocaine)
• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (6 counts)
• Unauthorized Possession of a Prohibited Device
• Possession of Proceeds Obtained by Crime Over
• Fail to Comply with Release Order

Adam Griffin (20) of Georgetown
• Careless use of a Firearm
• Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
• Possession of a Restricted Firearm with Ammunition
• Possession for the purpose of trafficking (7 counts)
• Fail to Comply with Release Order

Gabriel Kopcsanyi (40) of Toronto:
• Careless Use of a Firearm
• Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
• Possession of a Restricted Firearm with Ammunition
• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (8 counts)
• Careless Use of a Firearm
• Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
• Possession of a Restricted Firearm with Ammunition
• Possession of Proceeds Obtained by Crime Under $5000

Gabor Horvath (42) of Etobicoke:
• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Cocaine)
• Possession of a Controlled Substance (Cocaine)

Bill Chantzopoulos (57) of Toronto:
• Possession of a Controlled Substance (Fentanyl)

Virginia Dos Santos (62) of Toronto:
• Possession of a Controlled Substance (Fentanyl).

Berlanguet, Kopcsanyi, and Griffin were held pending a bail hearing. Horvath, Chantzopoulos, and Dos Santos were released on an undertaking with future court dates.

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That tree bylaw - is it doing what people want it to do - some see it as a cash grab

By Pepper Parr

August 29th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Burlington’s citizens have had significant differences of opinion over just what the tree bylaw should do for some time..

Some don’t want the city telling them what to do with trees on their property while others welcome the practice of requiring people to get permission to cut down a tree on their property.

Adding to the number of trees is an ongoing project – keeping climate change at an acceptable level requires that everyone be on board.

Climate change is taking place and the canopy coverage is now not just a nice thing to have but something that is essential if we are to have any hope of how we individually manage climate change.

One Gazette reader said:

I’m not sure most people are aware of how expensive it is to have an unhealthy tree in Burlington now.

A good friend of mine has a large tree in his backyard that is hollow for several feet from the base and obviously in danger of falling.  He already had a similar tree brought down by a bad storm that took out a fence.  He contacted the city to access the tree and the city arborist said it was healthy.  A lay person can see it’s not.

For my friend to cut the tree down it will cost several thousand dollars and will require he pay an application fee to have it cut down.   He also has to plant 5 trees because of it’s girth that his yard cannot support.   Thus he has to pay a penalty because he can’t plant that many trees.   It’s hard to believe this is a democratic country right now.     In the past if a tree was sick or close to the house the fee was waived but no longer.   The bylaw was changed last year and now makes it nearly impossible to protect your property from a falling tree.   He is willing to let the tree fall now and damage his own or neighbour’s house than cut it down.   What a sad city we have become.

Not sure you have done any story on our tree loving bylaw recently but its worth a look on what the city has imposed with little communication.

Was it necessary to cut these trees ? The current tree bylaw would require getting permission and replacing five tree for each tree cut down

We are clearly not yet at the point where there s a wide consensus on just what a tree bylaw should do and who should pay the costs involved.

Is this an issue that should be given serious attention during the election campaign that will become much more active once the holiday weekend is over ?

 

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Everything you need to know about the Formula 1 summer break 

By Justina Gartlab

August 29th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The Formula 1 summer break is a short period in between the season where there are no official F1 races. The break is so fundamental that there is a strict closure of factories and other F1-related industries with only basic functions allowed to proceed.

The thrill of being at the track or watching the races on TV is something you never forget – but drivers and the rest of the team do need a break.

The break is upheld by article 21.8 of the FIA sporting regulations which states “all competitors must observe a closing period of fourteen consecutive days during July and/or August.”

In the 2022-2023 season, the summer break extends between late July, after the Hungarian GP, and Late August, just in time for the Belgian GP. You can find more information about sports interaction bonus and promotions to improve your F1 races betting experience ahead of the season resumption.

What is the importance of the F1 summer break?  To provide drivers an opportunity for social interactions

If you love the F1 races, you will certainly be glued to your screen in a bid to catch the matches which happen almost every other weekend as there are over twenty races in every season.

However, you have to admit that the drivers are as human as you, and need a social life far from the spectators. The break gives them ample time to relax and reconnect with their families and friends without the hassle of training.

For instance, Lewis Hamilton says he is fully transformed and more in touch with his  ‘roots’ following his African visit during the lapsed break.

This team is a vital and critical part of winning a race.

The personnel teams such as those working in production, car design, and development also get to share in it. This prevents any parties from gaining a competitive advantage over the other, as neither can hold meetings or engage in planning activities unless with the authorization of FIA.

As the F1 teams resume working immediately after the Christmas break, this is their first and actual resting period without interruptions.

To minimize costs

With the production, planning, and designing functions on hold, the F1 teams and stakeholders can cut the majority of their costs then. Research projects are also paused which lowers the costs.

Races after the 2022 summer break

If you are looking for new ways to spice up your autumn season, these upcoming Grand Prix events are exciting races will surely keep you company.

Belgian GP               26 -28 August

Dutch GP                  2-4 September

Italian GP                  9-11 September

Singapore GP           30 – 2 October. 

Japanese GP            7-9 October

United States GP       21-23 October

Mexican City GP        28-30 October

 

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What are the Best On Line Betting Locations in Canada

By Novo Benaojan

August 30th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Canadians are best known for their love for entertainment and wagering of any form is welcome. Betting online is very popular with Canadians and among their favorite pastime is playing poker or any card games virtual or live. It may be challenging to look for the best online casino but many betting sites offer a wide range of games and the best bonus.

Gambling is entertainment – done responsibly with friends and never having to leave the house is what has made online gambling so popular.

Canada is lenient in gambling as long as the player is of legal age of 19 although in Quebec people are allowed to gamble at the age of 18 therefore no one is prosecuted for gambling online or land-based as long as they are playing in a licensed casino. Online betting is acceptable in the country because it is not indicated in their criminal code that it is illegal. One thing is sure, Canadian players follow the gambling standard procedure locally and offshore as well as its rules.

Additional Legal Information of Canada

  • Canadians play for leisure.
  • Canadian players are not liable for any legal or reputational risk due to gambling.
  • It is illegal to operate any form of gambling without a license.
  • All winnings are non-taxable therefore the player can enjoy their payout of 100%.
  • It is legal to wager online from offshore.

All online casinos from Canada are legal and guaranteed safe from malicious cyber issues and any form of virtual threats because all sites have powerful firewalls and are equipped with the Secure Socket Layer of the SSL which is used by major banks all over the world. The SSL encrypts the personal information of the operator and the player to ensure the safety and security of their data.

What can online wagering offer

Mobile compatibility

Majority of the online punters prefer betting through their smartphones because of their convenience and easy access. Mobile wagering is suitable for modern people with a modern lifestyle. All casino sites are constantly updating their site to cope with the modernity of the gadget, the speed of the internet, and the digital technology itself. Lately, 5Gen has been introduced hence the majority of the online punters also updated their gadgets which is why major online casinos upgrade their sites. However, some punters whose devices were not updated can play and wager thru Cloud Gaming.

The winnings are real but it is a game of chance.

Efficient claim of winnings

The online casino has diverse payment options such as digital wallets like Paypal, open banking payment methods like Trustly, and Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. There are a lot more payment systems that are available in major online casinos for the player’s convenience in all monetary transactions.

Real Money

The best part of using real money in the online casino is the bigger chance to win and receive real cash which most Canadians like the most.

Benefits

One of the big reasons why many people were drawn to online gambling in Canada is the numerous bonuses and benefits. Casino sites also offer promos and coupons and some tournaments to delight avid online gamblers.

Numerous Games to enjoy

Physical and online casinos offer similar types of games. It differs from the diverse ways in which the punter can play online. Online casino software offers more than 3000 modes of games using advanced graphics and sounds. Major casinos have two or more gaming software for the players to have the best online casino gaming experience.

Listed below are the online casino games played by most Canadian punters:

      • Blackjack
      • Craps
      • Sic Bo
      • Keno
      • Poker
      • Baccarat
      • Slot Machines
      • Bingo
      • Roulette

All of these games ensure high-quality graphics with state-of-the-art sounds and technology which synchronizes to most games of the online casino. Best of all, they also have various bonuses and benefits plus higher Return to Player or RTP compared to land-based casinos.

This just how comfortable and relaxing playing on line can be.

Convenience

Comfort in wagering is one of the key reasons why people prefer wagering online. Having the liberty to place a bet anytime and anywhere and to be in control is indeed the best.

Final Insight

All forms of wagering in Canada are embraced as long as the operator and the player follow the rules the government implemented. However, due to its leniency, issues of gambling addiction might occur hence moderation is always advised.

 

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Casino Zeus Ranks Canadian Online Locations

By Roman Melton

August 29, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Having gone live earlier this year, Casino Zeus is still a recent addition to the online gambling house review scene.

Nonetheless, it has swiftly proven itself a source of trustworthy and reliable information regarding gaming regulations in Canada.

The website also features a Canadian online casinos list, with some of the most trustworthy and entertaining online gambling houses, according to resident gambling expert Olexiy Ivanov. By weighing up several key factors in what results in the most enjoyable online gambling experience, Ivanov has ranked numerous leading online casinos in Canada for the convenience of gamers throughout the country.

We’ll begin with a brief explanation of the legality of online casinos in Canada. After that, we’ll guide you on a whistle-stop tour of five of the best Canadian casino sites, according to Casino Zeus.

Legalization and Regulation of Online Casinos in Canada
Canadian regulations surrounding online casinos initially seem complex but are actually fairly simple. Basically, even though it’s illegal to operate online casinos out of Canada, it is one hundred percent safe and legal to play at offshore gaming sites instead.

Not only is it entirely legal to play at offshore net casinos, but it’s also highly popular.

Almost twenty million people play at a casino online. Net casinos operating offshore earned a gross turnover of over C$610 million in 2021.

It can be fun, and you can play with friends.

So, if you live in Canada and are interested in doing a little online gambling, there’s no need to worry; you’re not breaking any laws when using offshore casinos! The pastime is entirely legitimate. Nevertheless, you should ensure that you’re absolutely scrupulous when your security is concerned. That’s where Casino Zeus’ list of trusted online casinos in Canada might help.

Grading the Best Online Casinos in Canada 2022
Here is a list of the best online gambling sites in Canada. This list has been taken from Casino Zeus’ ranking of the top ten Canadian casino clubs on the internet.

When searching for a net casino to play at, you should ensure you remain aware both of how fun and rewarding the site is and of your security. While compiling their Canada online casinos list, Casino Zeus was careful to take all these things into account.
Casino
Bonus
# of games
Licencing

Kosmonaut Online Casino
200% up to C$2,000
More than 500
Curacao eGaming

Kaiser Slots
200% deposit bonus up to C$110
More than 700
UK Gambling Commission

Spin Casino
200% deposit bonus up to C$110
More than 700
Malta Gaming Authority and UK Gambling Commission

Royal Vegas
C$1,200
More than 1,500
Malta Gaming Authority

GamingClub Casino
C$1,200
More than 1,500
Malta Gaming Authority

When researching what casino you should try, it’s important that you do your own rigorous research. Read up on what those with expertise in online gambling have to say on the subject; taking advice from trustworthy professionals in the area will very rarely lead you astray! That’s why we recommend having a look at Casino Zeus’ website for more information.

The Main Criteria for Ranking Online Casinos in Canada
Having now presented you with a short list of five of the most trusted casinos online Canada has to offer, we’ll talk a little bit about the criteria behind this ranking. After all, if you’re to do your own research into online casinos, you’d best know what it is you’re looking for.

Here is a list of criteria used when reviewing online casinos:

Does the site have good user ratings? If so, then it is likely very trustworthy, secure, and fun.

Is the casino properly licensed by recognized regulatory bodies? A quick way to check this for yourself is to scan the site footer for a recognizable gaming authority logo.

Does the casino use reliable data protection methods to guarantee you and your money are safe?

Is help readily available through their website—i.e. for technical difficulties, inquiries ?

All of these issues, and more, are taken into account when ranking online casinos.

When compiling their list, Casino Zeus used these very criteria to rate each and every site.

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OLT Hearing phases

By Pepper Parr

August 26th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

When the Interim Control Bylaw was put in place in a number of years ago, close to 40 development applications were taken to what was then called the Local Planning Authority Tribunal (LPAT)

That organization is now called the Ontario Land Tribunal

With 40+ appeals the Tribunal needed to get a handle on just what it is the each appeal was about – the specifics.

It took some time – but the Tribunal has now put each appeal into a category where the specifics of the appeals are similar.

There are nine categories that are being called phases.  some phases have several categories

Phase 1: Rural

Phase 1A: Agriculture

Phase 1B: Natural Heritage

Phase 1C: Aggregates

Phase 2: Implementation / Development Approvals Process Phase 3: Growth Framework/Urban Structure/Land Use Phase 4: Downtown Urban Centre & Urban Design

There might be a book to be written on the impact this rinky dinky bus terminal has had on the high rise development in the downtown core

Phase 5: Major Transit Station Areas

Phase 6: Supporting Growth

Phase 6A: Parkland

Phase 6B: Public Service Facilities, Infrastructure & Utilities

Phase 7: Housing

Phase 8: Employment

Phase 9: Site-Specific

Dates for each of these Phases are still being worked out – it is clear that the process is going to require years – perhaps longer than the term of Council citizens are going to elect in October.

So – what is it that gets litigated during these hearings?  This details are mind boggling – the details take up 60 pages.

We will follow up with those before the end of the month.

This is a Friday – there is nice weekend weather ahead of us – so the Gazette might be a little quiet.

Update on Waterfront Hotel redevelopment plans:

One interesting bit of news.  The first Case Management Conference on the Waterfront Hotel appeal took place this morning.

The city appears to have decent legal counsel in place.

They will be back at it on October 7th, 2 to argue a motion on the applicability of the decision to move the Urban Growth Centre boundaries north – which would impact the density levels for the Waterfront Hotel property redevelopment

 

 

 

 

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The Sound of close to 3000 people screaming - you know you are at a Circus

By Allan Harrington

August 26th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

It was a pretty good crowd for opening night.

Takes place at the Burlington Centre – shows on Friday, Saturday and Sunday

The Big Top tent was more than  90% full.

I wondered how the long line of people snaking around outside would fit inside to see the show on time – but they did.

For the most part every seat is a good seat – even at the back row because a lot of the show is in the air.

We won’t go into the individual acts – except to say the Chicago Boyz  brought a lot of energy with them – all the way from the Windy City.  These guys were good.

Show times:

August 26 4:00 pm & 7:30 pm

August 27 12:00 pm & 4:00 pm & 7:30 pm

August 28 1:00 pm and 5:00 pm

Every seat is a good seat – the back rows let you really appreciate the aerial acts

The cannon that blasted a man into the air was different – and very real.

The “oohs and aahs” from the crowd were genuine and there were a lot of them.

There were no animal acts.

Great event for the kids – parents as well.  Several of the acts involved parents who were pulled into the ring to take part.

For people of all ages who like a fun night out – you can’t go wrong with the circus.

Tickets – decently priced. More info HERE

Hot dogs, pop corn and cotton candy – all part of the circus experience

 

 

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Ukraine needs help - What would you have done?

By Bob Ankrett

August 26th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

My name is Bob Ankrett and I am the City Liaison and Museum Curator for the Royal Canadian Legion in Burlington Ontario. We have all read about and watched the terrible images of shocked civilians as they run for their lives to hopeful safety with only the items they can carry. Too often we see the blank faces of small children caught in this horror and wonder if they will ever laugh again.

What would you carry at such a time? Photos, clothing, food, a favourite toy for your child or something else?

Part of the soft knitted dolls

Burlington Legion member Deirdre thought the same thing. What could she do half a world away for these children? By the way, she likes to be called Dee as Tony her husband will tell you. They needed something to carry, small, colourful, soft with no sharp edges and easy to clean. There it was, a small colourful doll made of soft yarn about eight inches high. She began to knit. It took almost three days to make one doll. She made sure everyone was different. When it was time to load the plane to the Ukraine, she had knitted just over ninety dolls.

What would you have done?
I had trouble getting the dolls to the Ukraine as most people did not see them as a priority. Olena Beshley who works as a volunteer at the Holy Spirit Ukrainian Church saw the benefit to her people. By the time you read this, the dolls should be in the hands of mothers and children in Lviv Ukraine.

That in part is due to Olena packing and addressing them with other needed items. These items go to hospitals, refugees and soldiers.

The plane was arranged by Stephan Taras Sobolewski. I should mention this is the eighth plane load sent from Hamilton Airport. His company is called Taras Bulba Ukraine.

When I asked how the average person could help, she sent me a list which I will now share with you.

Items can be dropped off at the Holy Spirit Ukrainian Church at 15 St. Olga Street in Hamilton.

Their hours are Saturday 11am to 3pm, Tuesday and Thursday 10am to 4pm. Olena Beshley also gave me their website https://holyspirit.hsucc.ca/p/32help-for-ukraine.

Now her list.
Energy bars, canned tuna or salmon meat, instant oatmeal, dry fruits, dry baby food, new men’s socks 9-13, New men’s T shirts sm-2XL, male female hygiene products, batteries, sleeping bags, Ibuprofen 400mg, allergy medicine, Polysporin, first aid kits, pain relieving medicine (liquid or pills) and alcohol wipes.

This is only a partial list.

Deirdre, likes to be called Dee with a friend

You have heard my story of how a Burlington grandmother heard the call of children half a world away. The question is what can you do ?

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Vehicle Theft Investigation Leads to More Than 50 Charges

By Staff

August 26th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Investigators with the Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) 3 District Criminal Investigations Bureau have made two arrests and laid more than 50 charges in connection to an investigation that began after an auto theft in Burlington.

On June 5, 2022, police were contacted regarding the theft of a vehicle parked at a gym on Brant Street. The victim’s keys along with other personal items were taken from the locker room of the gym and the car was stolen. This began a lengthy investigation that has lead to the identification of a pair of suspects and more than 50 charges.

On August 16, 2022, Taylor Gillard (23) of no fixed address and Michael Salverda (36) of Brampton were arrested in Cambridge.

Gillard has been charged with the following:

• Unauthorized Possession of a Weapon (3 counts)
• Possession of a Controlled Substance (Fentanyl)
• Possession of a Controlled Substance (Methamphetamine)
• Fail to Comply being on Release Order (2 counts)
• Theft of Motor Vehicle (6 counts)
• Possession of Break & Enter Instruments (2 counts)
• Fraudulent Use of Credit Card (3 counts)
• Theft Under $5,000 (6 counts)
• Possession of Automobile Master Key
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5,000 (3 counts)

Salverda has been charged with the following:
• Unauthorized Possession of a Weapon (3 counts)
• Possession of a Controlled Substance Methamphetamine (3 counts)
• Fail to Comply with Probation
• Fail to Comply with Undertaking
• Possession of Break & Enter Instruments (2 counts)
• Fraudulent Use of Credit Card
• Theft Under $5,000
• Possession of Automobile Master Key
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5,000 (3 counts)

Both accused were held in custody pending a bail hearing.

During the investigation police recovered a large quantity of stolen property including cell phones, laptops, wallets and credit cards. Efforts are being made to return the items to the rightful owners however if you had property stolen from a gym in Burlington or Milton in the past number or weeks you are encouraged to contact Detective Constable Lanaya Greco of the 3 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4777 ext. 2316.

Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers. “See something? Hear something? Know something? Contact Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca.

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On the matter of those coyotes - citizens produced a report with recommendations - city manager and council have been sitting on the report

By Pepper Parr

August 25th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The following are some very direct questions.

They relate to a report that was produced and provided earlier this year on the coyote problem that both Burlington and Oakville have been experiencing.

1)            Why does BOCM have to wait over six months for City of Burlington officials to read BOCM’s Report and provide comments and feedback on our recommendations?

2)            Why did Nick Anastasopoulos say that our Report had not been sent to Coyote Watch, but Rosemary Fitzpatrick advised us in mid-May that is what had occurred?

City Manager Tim Commisso

3)            Why did Tim Commisso say in a June 2nd meeting that he would get back to us with a response shortly, but we are still waiting?  How long are we expected to wait?

4)            Why did Nick Anastasopoulos feel it was all right to forward a Report created by an outside advocacy group to another third party advocacy group without our prior knowledge or approval?

5)            Why does City Hall not have a formal, established process for reviewing Reports and recommendations from outside entities and organizations?

To put the questions in context let me share an email I received from Stephen White, a frequent delegator before City Council

A colleague of mine, Julie Martin, lives in Oakville.  Back in 2020 she launched an online petition asking the Town of Oakville and the City of Burlington to adopt a more proactive approach in dealing with coyote management.  Julie lives in West Oakville, and she and her neighbours had many threatening encounters with coyotes.  In some cases pets have been attacked, and coyotes have managed to scale fences and get into residents backyards.  Julie lives very close to Wilmot Park in the Samuel Curtis Estates section of West Oakville.

In March of 2021 a teleconference was held with a number of Oakville and Burlington officials including Councillors O’Meara and Sharman.  There were dozens of residents in attendance.  Suffice to say the response was “status quo”.  Following that teleconference Julie and I connected, and we formed an organization called “Burlington and Oakville Coyote Management”.  In conjunction with several other residents we developed a series of recommendations and ideas on how Oakville and Burlington could better manage the coyote problem..  This culminated in a Report that was prepared in December 2021.

Julie and I met virtually with Councillors O’Meara and Robertson from Oakville, as well as Councillor Sharman, in late January 2022.  Our Report has since been shared with officials at the Town of Oakville and the City of Burlington.  The Town of Oakville sent us a reply on August 9th which Julie and I found disappointing.

Julie and I had a meeting with Councillor Sharman in mid-May at which we expressed our dismay with the City of Burlington’s response.  We also had a teleconference on June 2nd with Councillor Sharman and several City of Burlington officials.  We were told by the City Manager, Tim Commisso, who was on the call, that we could expect a response to our Report the end of June.  It was never forthcoming.

On July 15th I met with Mayor Marianne Meed Ward. I provided her with a copy of our Report. She committed to following up on it.  On July 21st the Mayor sent me a detailed e-mail expressing support in principle with the idea of better coyote management.  She asked the City Manager to follow up.  In a July 22nd e-mail Tim Commisso committed to getting back to us by the end of August with a detailed response.  Julie and I are still waiting.

Both Julie and I are extremely disillusioned with the response to our Report by City and Town officials.  When residents come together and proactively advance a set of recommendations to address a problem the least we should expect is proper due diligence and a detailed examination of our proposals.  While we fully acknowledge the support offered by Councillor Sharman and Mayor Meed Ward the fact remains that civic officials have “dropped the ball” on this issue, and have failed to implement any kind of proactive measures to protect residents, children and their pets.

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Details on the Circus - eight performances over four days

By Pepper Parr

August 24th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

More on that Circus.

The Gazette called their always reliable General Manager Heidi McGaw to get more back ground on the event.

Circus workers are putting up the tents

She wasn’t available – word is that Heidi has run away and joined the circus.

Circuses have that effect on people

The schedule is as follow:

First show Thursday night 7 pm.  You can get in half an hour before hand.

Friday: a show at 4 pm and a show at 7 30 pm

Saturday three shows

Noon

4 pm

7:30 pm

Sunday two shows: 1:0 pm and 5 pm.

You can get into the big tent half an hour before the show starts but you have to have your tickets first

They have a number of different ticketing programs.

General admission is $40 got two people.  Candy floss is not included.

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The circus is in town - runs from Thursday through to Sunday - Burlington Central parking lot.

By Pepper Parr

August 24th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The Big Top is in town

It runs from Thursday through to Sunday.

The BIG tent can hold 3000 people.

Two big tents – circus is in town – runs from Thursday to Sunday.

No animals but there will be clowns, trapeze artists, acrobats and people running all over the place; don’t know if it is a three ring circus – they are the most exciting.

The event is to take place in the Burlington Central parking lot – you can’t miss it.

Nothing yet on ticket process.

There will be line ups at the ticket station.

 

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Tim O'Brien: I can beat the ward 2 incumbent if I work hard enough.

By Pepper Parr

August 23rd, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

With nominations closed and the official list of candidates running for positions certified by the City Clerk, Burlington moves into a 62  days to go campaign that will elect seven people who will guide the city through a complex period of time during which critical long term decisions are going to have to be made.

The Gazette will do its best to interview each of the 23 candidates, several of whom feel they can ignore media, put out their own story and assume the public will buy it without any questions.

Democracy doesn’t work that way.

There are 23 candidates to interview.  Some candidates ask if this can be done by telephone.  An in depth interview is a one on one event that takes at least an hour.

The Gazette has brought in Denis Gibbons, a former editor of another Burlington based newspaper, to do some of the interviewing.

Tim O’Brien: His move to municipal politics, not unusual, was brought about by his dissatisfaction with the way the HDCSB operated and his interest in city wide issues.

Yesterday we interviewed Tim O’Brien, a current Halton District Catholic School Board (HCSB) trustee who is not running for trustee re-election.

O’Brien spoke reluctantly about his HDCSB experience explaining that the protocols in place were such that he was not permitted to speak.

He does however talk about some of the changes that trustees were able to make, the most important one from Tim O’Brien’s point of view was input on the hiring of Superintendents.

Burlington city council does not have any formal input on the decisions City Manager Tim Commisso makes on his hiring decisions.  The decision Council makes is who they want as City Manager.  That manager does the staff hiring or delegates it to Executive Directors.

Tim O’Brien was born in Sarnia, moved to Burlington in 1990.  He was a music teacher with the HDCSB; retired in 2018 when he was elected a trustee.

His move to municipal politics, not unusual, was brought about by his dissatisfaction with the way the HDCSB operated and his interest in city wide issues.

These days he is knocking on doors and hearing what the issues are.

O’Brien  does not live I ward 2 – he does live across the street on the other side of the ward 2 boundary.

During his door knocking O’Brien found that intensification is the number one issue for the people he is talking to on their doorsteps.

“Every third household I talked to said their concern was with the level of intensification” he said.

Quality of life was the next big issue for people followed by dissatisfaction and concerns with the services provided by Parks and Recreation.  O’Brien wants to see more park space and points out that if you drive along Guelph Line from Dundas to Lakeshore Road – note how little open green space exists.

He wants to see more and soon before the developers build on the land that could be available.

He said that people don’t understand why all these high rises have to be built.

O’Brien has deep concerns over life in a condo.  It might be Ok for empty nesters but he doesn’t think it is the kind of place where your raise children. Site plan of a development that is planned for FAirview just west of Guelph Line.

O’Brien met with people in Oakville where they appear to have managed to keep the high rise development out of their downtown core.

Some think that is because Oakville hires better legal talent to represent the city at Ontario Land Tribunal hearings and ask aloud if Burlington has the right person leading the legal department.

Some clarification:  The appeal level for anyone who differs with a municipality on the decisions it makes on planning matters used to be the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) that got renamed to the Local Planning Authority Tribunal (LPAT) and was recently changed to the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT)

Post war bungalows on large lots were the norm in the Queensway community. Developers bought up half a dozen properties, consolidated and put up rows of town houses.

While door knocking in the Queensway (west of Guelph Line, south of the QEW) O’Brien learned about what residents in the area called “needle park” – the vacant lot on the south west corner of Harvester and Guelph Line. “The bushes in the park give the drug users a place to do what they do without being seen” said O’Brien adding that the community doesn’t have a park.

It is in a quiet part of the city that has undergone significant development.  Where there were once quarter acre lots with small bungalows that were created for veterans just after WWII; developers did some consolidation and the area now has some significant intensification – but no high rise – yet.

O’Brien found that taxes were not the number one issue – it was third on his list based on what he heard at the door. “People were telling me that if higher taxes were needed to maintain the quality of life they want then they are Ok with that.

Townhouse developments have replaced bungalows on large spacious lots.

What people don’t want to lose said O’Brien  was the almost small town feel of the city.   They don’t like the sense that the city is becoming a place for “rich strangers that we don’t know.”

O’Brien has deep concerns over life in a condo.  It might be Ok for empty nesters but he doesn’t think it is the kind of place where your raise children.

Tim O’Brien has figured it out: Knocking on doors beats the photo op every time.

He would want to see a lot in the way of amenities where kids could play and learn – he wants libraries, swimming pools, gymnasiums and playing fields.  Outdoor ice rinks that are maintained by the community is what he wants to work  for.

Dogs and off leash parks – a big problem now that is only going to get bigger.  The one planned for Drury and New Street is too small said O’Brien.

He likes the idea of creating time for people to use the dog park as unleashed space for two hours or so in the morning and another two  hours late in the day – maybe early evening.

It will have to be monitored but O’Brien thinks it is worth a pilot effort to see if people can learn to share space.

Can he beat the incumbent and win the council seat we asked.  “I can if I work hard enough.

And with that Tim O’Brien was on the phone setting up a meeting and getting ready to knock on more doors in the evening

 

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