 By Pepper Parr
July 20th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
When Anita Cassidy, Executive Director, is presenting to Council, she finds herself speaking very quickly on issues that are important.
The agenda for any one day is often full and she seems to feel that she isn’t going to be given the time she needs.
Unfortunate because the picture she paints isn’t always rosy.
 Anita Cassidy, Executive Director, Economic Development Corporation She said earlier this month that “…we had a significant shift in our economic environment. In that time that we had it on pause, we had to reflect the realities of COVID-19 and look at the potential impacts. We also had the shift of the UGC to Burlington GO MTSA.”
The Economic Development Corporation, in its report to Council set out the background that they expdct the city’s economy to build upon.
They maintain the MTSAs provide the potential to create complete communities, expand the tax base, and provide a destination for employment growth for future generations. The MTSA developments will increase transit usage and help to make Burlington a destination while lowering carbon emissions. Burlington Economic Development has been working with the City of Burlington to develop an employment vision for the MTSAs and an implementation plan that positions us to expand our tax base through employment attraction and branding opportunities, as well as ensuring we continue to retain key industrial employers and other employment uses associated with the MTSAs.
This economic vision for the three MTSAs has been undertaken through the GO Investment Corridor Project.
“So what did that mean for unemployment attraction and retention perspective? Cassidy added: “We also wanted to make sure that we addressed any market and policy changes; as I mentioned, there were a number of policy changes in the background, ROPA 48 and 49 is coming down, we had the provincially significant employment zones for the province: a lot of policy changes to take into effect here.
“One of the key pieces of research we did was on taking into account the impacts of COVID on the office and retail environment, and what could that look like? The industrial environment for COVID, as I mentioned to counsel before, largely hasn’t shifted, as that is an in person activity. We’ve seen our industrial getting stronger through COVID. So we focused in on office and the retail.
“We had stakeholder workshops to validate those findings and hear from our developers and our businesses and our real estate, commercial brokers, what has changed over the last two years.
“Our assumptions were right here what we need to integrate in here.
“We had a subcommittee of our board reinstated with external experts to provide their expertise and then we integrated those back into the six guiding principles and the overall vision that we developed.
“There was nothing surprising from the SWOT analysis perspective. It’s everything that we’re seeing in the market already.
“We’re seeing that not unexpected displacement of existing businesses. And what we want to see is that the right kinds of businesses are retained There were examples of business displacement that have happened already over the last couple of years. We had one shop go to Mexico. They were a great employer – 150 high tech industrial jobs that ended moving operations to Mexico; part of that was they couldn’t secure a long term lease, and we don’t have sufficient employment lands to replace employers like that.
“We’ve gone from 27 hectares of shovel ready land back in 2015 to down to 14 now; that’s less than half. So this is a really a key focus area. We need to make sure that we can integrate these existing businesses as well as attracting new businesses to the MTSA developments – that is really going to be critical to achieving both job growth and that great split of tax base where we have commercial and industrial taxes to help keep our residential costs low as well.
“Our Go investment corridor vision has six guiding principles.
 “To effectively develop each MTSA into a complete community that has a mix of residential employment, institutional and recreational uses a clear mission statement and understood and agreed upon objectives are in place.
 “When we started this project, back in 2017, we took a pretty narrow economic development lens. And as we sat down with stakeholders, and we did workshops with people, we realized that the future of work at these GO stations is going to be very different from the type of employment development we’ve had in the past.
“Workers of the future do not want to work at isolated employer locations where they have to get in their car to do everything and they don’t have those communities around them. That’s what’s going to be the attractors to those MTSA locations – it’s going to be like a mini downtime environment where they’re going to be able to have all of those facilities in one spot while also being able to get on the go train and access those communities and to attend meetings in downtown as well.
“Our second guiding principle is to focus on planning for future services and infrastructure and secure sustainable development which means looking at integrating the right kind of infrastructure but also understanding in advance what the infrastructure needs are and planning not just for yourselves as a city, but with our regional partners as well.
“We’ve already heard the region is a huge part of this from a policy approval perspective, but also from an infrastructure and servicing perspective. If we don’t have the right infrastructure planned and in place then we can’t support the levels of development that we’re going to see.”
 There is a significant amount of work to be done to ensure that all the players understand and buy into what is proposed. Work done in 2017 – 2019  Work done during 2021 and 2022 – it is an ongoing process. The planners are now creating Area Specific Plans for each of the MTSA – which set out a clear path as to where the development can take place.
The Vision has been clear since the current Council took office. The moving of the Urban Growth Centre north of the downtown area has made it possible for the city to undergo the growth the province has imposed. That growth will create the tax base need to cover the cost of making the city a place where seniors and those raising a family can live in comfort.
The challenge at this point is to get through the Ontario Land Tribunals and have an Official Plan that makes the vision possible
 By Staff
July 19th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
On July 9, 2022 at approximately 1:50 am, Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) officers responded to the Port House Social Bar and Kitchen located at 2020 Lakeshore Road in Burlington, for reports of gun shots being fired.
Location was basically the Waterfront Hotel
 Gun was fired into the air in the parking lot on the eastern side of the Waterfront Hotel. An altercation had occurred between a group of people in the parking lot of the bar. At some point during the altercation the suspect produced a handgun from his waistband and fired five to six shots into the air. Fortunately no one was struck by the rounds and no physical injuries were reported. The suspect fled the area in a vehicle.
Investigators from the 3 District Criminal Investigations Bureau were able to identify the suspect and on July 15, 2022, a search warrant was executed at a residence in Hamilton.
Bashdar Kader (23) of Hamilton was arrested and has been charged with:
• Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose
• Careless Use of a Firearm
• Carry Concealed Weapon
• Unauthorized Possession of Firearm
Kader was held in custody pending a bail hearing.
The firearm utilized by the accused has not been recovered.
 Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact Detective Constable Lanaya Greco of the 3 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4777 ext. 2334 or 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
 By Staff
July 19th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
UPDATE July 20: Readers report that the city has since taken down the link.
Coming Soon! Our redesigned website burlington.ca
That was the announcement.
Find what you need. Easier. Faster. Better. Learn more about the website redesign project on Get Involved Burlington…
The problem was the link provided didn’t work.
If you slip over to the current web site where the announcement also appears you will get to a link with a lot of outdated information.
This project is not ready for the main stage, – pathetic – an augur of what is to come ?
 By Pepper Parr
July 18th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Heard anything lately about the plans for the Waterfront Hotel site?
Pretty quiet – and that is not a good sign.
 Architecturally stunning – just not appropriate for the waterfront. At 35 and 40 storeys atop a three storey podium – the towers would loom over everything. The Spencer Smith Park experience would never be the same. Two things have occurred.
The Ontario Land Tribunal, that is the body developers (and sometimes the city) appeal to over planning and development issues, has issued a case number which means that organization begins pulling documents together to first determine just what the issue is and then determine when proceedings will begin.
The other “occurrence” is a letter from The Planning Partnership (TPP) – they are the people who represented the city when there was an extensive series of engagement sessions with all kinds of ideas coming to the surface.
In a letter to the city TPP Partner, Donna Hinde, told the Planning department that they “cannot provide professional planning and /or urban design support for any specific building height through the remaining approval process, including at any potential appeal to the Ontario Land Tribunal.”
When your independent planning consultant quits – you know you’re in trouble.
 The first plan put forward was for a six storey podium on which the towers would sit. Access to the site would be through a passage way that would align with John Street. Given the grade level there would be quite a steep set of steps needed to get people into Spencer Smith Park Earlier in the letter Ms Hinds said “we were directed by city staff to implement a building height of 22 storeys”.
Wow if that is true – and the Director of the Community Planning department said it didn’t happen, there is a serious problem.
Add to those problems the issues around park land dedication and the people of Burlington and the developer are looking at a development that may no longer be viable.
Which the Plan B people would not complain about.
You might want to ask your Council member what they can tell you about this mess.
They are out looking for your vote – this is time to stand on their toes so they can’t walk away.
By Pepper Parr
July 17th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
We had a small follow up on a media release from the city – the attachment didn’t appear to be attached.
Sent a note – nothing came back – we found a way too dig out the information we needed and published the story.
 Two days later we got the following from one of the Communications advisors:
Our working hours may be different. Please do not feel the need to reply outside of your typical working hours.
Lackadaisical was the word that came to mind.
There should be one Communications Advisor on duty at all times – a common cell number would be made available to media who needed information.
This is your Burlington!
 By Staff
July 17th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
A reader popped us a note asking if we were aware of what people are saying about the traffic light situation in Burlington.
Under the question:
 Former Halton Regional Police Chief Gary Crowly, Regional Chair Gary Carr and former Mayor Rick Goldring stand at the intersection of Brant and Dundas with signs telling the public that red light runners will be photographed and fined. What’s your least favourite thing about Burlington?
They got the following on
Lol. When we left the city in the family van, we played a game that we could make it to the QEW without stopping. I think we have 6 red lights in the 3 km distance. IIRC we made it….once.
i think i hit 6 just crossing the highway
walkers line and
fairview
harvester
toronto bound off ramp
hamilton bound off ramp
south service road
mainway
It takes me longer to get to work from Burlington -> Burlington than it takes my coworkers who live in Hamilton when there’s no traffic in the morning. They just have a straight shot down the highway, I spent 10 minutes sitting at red lights as no traffic passes in front of me.
Seriously what the **** is up with that. It’s like it’s designed to be as annoying as possible on purpose.
Stop the survey…this is the correct answer.
Yup. Traffic lights has to be the top answer.
Burlington, home of the red light.
Come for the simple life, stay because of the red lights
I was just saying to my dad that I would pay $10 to a fundraiser that is raising funds that will go to implementing the software like Hamilton. I can’t imagine it’s very expensive anymore it was in the early 2000s but Burlington didn’t go for it and Hamilton did! I would pay out of pocket outside taxes for this.
 By Pepper Parr
July 17th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
It is going to take more than a photograph of a woman in a wheel chair facing the Cenotaph to become the Mayor of Burlington.f
 Anne Marsden spending a quiet moment in front of the Cenotaph in Veteran Square. The 17,000 votes that were cast in the 2018 election will not translate into votes for Anne Marsden to be given the Chain of Office in October.
Those votes were for a different position and were more of a protest against Gary Carr, the Regional Chair Marsden wanted to replace.
Anne, along with her husband Dave have delegated before city council frequently, some say too frequently, but that was and is her right.
What the public wants to hear is what Anne stands for.
Where is she on municipal taxes; where does she stand on park land dedication and the development charges that are part of buying a home.
Anne is a strong advocate for affordable housing – how does she think this can be done in Burlington when housing is burdened with participation from every government of level in the country.
 Anne Marsden with her husband Dave It is time for Anne to begin to tell the public she wants to serve how she will do the job – in some detail.
The disabled sympathy card has been taken as far as it will get her. Access for those who are disabled has to be cast in stone and never messed with – and on that score Anne Marsden will be there.
It is the other issues that people want to hear her views on as well as how she would lead – hopefully it will be more than a settling of old scores.
By Staff
July 16th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The battle for the Regional Chair is going to heat up when a fourth candidate files nomination papers.
Ann Mulvale, former Mayor of Oakville, is rumored to be running. She has been sounding out different people the past week.
 Ann Mulvale appears to want back in to the tables where decisions are made Mulvale got into politics in 1980 when she ran as Regional and Town Councillor, Oakville and was elected to represent ward 5 from 1980 to 1985.
Mulvale was first elected mayor in 1988, defeating incumbent Bill Perras, after unsuccessfully running against him in 1985.
She was acclaimed mayor in 1991 and re-elected three more times – in 1994, 1997 and 2003.
In 2006 she was defeated by Rob Burton.
Mulvale was a candidate for mayor in the 2010 Oakville municipal election. She lost to Rob Burton by 4838 votes.
Mulvale was the Progressive-Conservative candidate for the former Oakville-Milton riding in 1993.
 Gary Carr has served at every level of government and has ensured the finances are stable and the community safe. Gary Carr has said publicly that he will run again as Chair, a position he has held since 2006. He has also served as an MP and as an MPP
 Giving up the seat at Queen’s Park may well prove to be the end of a political career for Jane McKenna Former Burlington Progressive Conservative MPP Jane McKenna is out campaigning for the Regional Chair.
And current Halton District School Board trustee Andrea Grebenc is running for the Regional Chair as well.
The Region has some major decisions to be made during the term of office they will go into.
 A long shot by any measure: Grebenc brings a track record of creating consensus and speaking boldly. Farming is not in a state of crisis but it certainly isn’t healthy or thriving. The amount of land that is good for farming is shrinking – and urban boundaries are changing. The Escarpment lands in Burlington are threatened given the tendency on the part of the Ford government to favour development.
Transit and traffic are going to need a lot of attention.
The Region needs a Chair that can create a consensus around ideas and initiatives that serves the competing needs of a community that reaches north of 401.
By Pepper Parr
July 15th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
This is not the image you were expecting to see from Anne Marsden as she announces the filing of her nomination papers and is officially in the race to be Mayor.
 There is lots to say about what kind of Mayor Marsden would make – in due course. For the moment lets see what she puts up on heer website.
Marsden said responses to her Tweets has doubled.
Politics is all about numbers and perceptions – a look at the number of Burlington votes Marsden got when she ran for Regional Chair astounded everyone. 17,000 people in Burlington wanted her as the Regional Chair – that was more votes than Rick Goldring got at the same time (2018) when he ran for Mayor.
Those numbers mean something.
The Gazette will interview Anne Marsden in the days ahead and track her progress
By Pepper Parr
July 14th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Staff in the Finance department set out what they believed was going to have to be raised in taxes for 2023 They projected an increase of 7.97% and explained how they got there
That 4.55% on the far right needs to be explained. The number is correct but it isn’t what the Mayor would have you think.
The city collects its own taxes, plus the taxes for the school boards and the Regional government.
Each of those jurisdictions levies a tax.
When the Mayor explains that what the taxpayer has to come up with is that blended rate – she is not wrong.
The blended rate is the tax increase the city is imposing, plus the tax rate the Region imposes plus the tax rate the boards of education impose and adds them up and then divides them by 3: the figure is called the blended rate.
Burlington has zero influence on the school board tax levy, the city has some influence on the Regional rate because all seven city council members sit on Regional Council. Burlington has seven of the 24 Regional Council seats.
What the city controls is the tax levy that the finance department comes up with and which city council eventually decides on. Council usually ends up at a tax rate very close to what the finance people recommend.
Mayor Meed Ward has said that in the past she has been able to cut $1 million out of the spending proposed.
The report the finance department put forward was labelled a Budget Framework – giving Councillors a solid heads up on what they are looking in terms of data at this point.
Councillor Rory Nisan got the debate started by saying what was clearly obvious: “… we have a pretty challenging budget ahead of us and this report isn’t locking us in anywhere but I’ve had the opportunity to sort of canvass with some residents about what’s being proposed through this budget and it’s not vibing very well.
“At this point. What I think we need is more options. The report does have some preview of options of what we can do to bring it down somewhat. But I think we need a sort of a low, a middle and an upper range. This what people are asking for – I’ll be frank, some of this information is coming in kind of late and my own thinking is changing quickly.
 Ward 3 Councillor Rory Nisan was not getting the vibe he wanted from his constituents – asks colleagues join him in asking finance to come up with some options. He didn’t get any takers Nisan added that “If other councillors are interested perhaps we can do some work together. Just refer the report to September but I expect the response will be quite the opposite. So barring any other comments, I’ll just vote accordingly.”
The Mayor, sitting as Chair asks “:Do you wish to make a referral motion at this time or not?”
“Well, I would need a seconder for something like that but I’m quite content to vote accordingly. But if someone did raise their hand to refer it then yes, I would support that.”
No hands were raised
The data was pretty stark.
The top line in the graphic below is the line that matters. It reflects what the finance people expect to need in the way of budget increases – expressed as a percentage over the previous year.
 Councillor Kearns, no slouch when it comes to number crunching wouldn’t support the Nisan idea. Councillor Kearns said “I will not be seconding it but I do want to just share that. The budget numbers that we did see of course are of concern. They are a deviation from what we would maybe have expected however, they are built out in our multi year simulation. I think a statement that only one council member is concerned with the numbers might not be reflective of everyone’s views and an opportunity to put forward everyone’s views would be inefficient at this time.
“So I’m going to just say that, you know, maybe those comments could be held back and I think we’ll work through the process as we should be.
 Councillor Bentivegna tends to dig into numbers – expect him to be sharpening his pencil to go over numbers he doesn’t always understand. Angelo Bentivegna, ward 6, said that “at the end of the day, we were still going to be voting on the budget.. We make decisions at this table to reduce it or do what we think we need to do. So I won’t be supporting this either.”
Mayor Meed Ward, who was chair (this being a council meeting) said “I will offer my thoughts that we are receiving this file which is a picture from our staff about what the future looks like if we wish to maintain services. At not only the expected level, but the level to account for the fact that we’re a growing municipality; we have well outpaced our growth 12 years early, but the development charges and other fees from that development and growth costs have not caught up yet.
“Because simply some of those units are still being constructed as we speak. So folks often ask us to try to keep our increases in line with inflation. Inflation is running at 8% then adds that the tax increase before than was less than inflation. So this budget picture actually is less than inflation and in a post COVID world where everything has changed. I think it’s really important for us to start framing our conversations around what the final impact on our residents is going to be.”
This is an election year, it is very quiet at this point. People are still coping with a pandemic that is supposed to be over yet hundreds of people are still getting very sick – with some dieing.
 There are a lot of people in hospital recovering from and being treated for Covid19
With it now very clear that the Budget Framework report is going to be received and filed the Mayor moves to fudge the numbers She doesn’t lie – but the truth does takes a beating.
 Mayor Meed Ward is going to have to find something that the public will like – and be ready to pat for if she is to come up with a budget that gets her through the election. She explains hat what the taxpayer will be is actually a “blended rate” one that includes the Boards of Education taxes and the Regional government taxes.
We explained how that works above.
It is good to be eyes wide open. Our staff have certainly painted the picture of what’s coming and the five year projection out gives us that picture. And it’s difficult for every municipality and we would be doing a disservice to not be transparent about what the picture looks like.
So am I open to finding cuts? Yes, every budget I’ve tried to find roughly about a million bucks. That’s my average over 12 years. And I will always look for ways we can do things better and cheaper. But we have work to be done and we have service requests coming in from our residents that we have to that we have to respond to. And it’s not unicorns and fairies that do the work around the city. It’s real people. And we’re in a competitive labour environment as well. So it’s really important to have a transparent and honest discussion about the challenges we face and how this council is going to respond to them. Those are the comments for me and I will turn it to the clerk now for the recorded vote not seeing any other hands on the board.
The vote to receive and file the report carried.
 By Staff
July 13th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Sue Biggs has been promoted to the rank of Superintendent and will serve as the Commander of the Burlington District.
 Superintendent Sue Biggs commander of the Burlington District police operations First couple of days on the job she gets a call from Ward 4 Councillor Shawna Stolte who had received concerns regarding illegal and dangerous activities in Sycamore Park and reached out earlier this morning to introduce herself to Superintendent Biggs and request assistance from HRPS.
She responded within 10 minutes stating:
“Thanks for letting me know about these concerns. Would you be able to forward me the name and contact information of someone that reached out to you, so that I can have an officer connect with them to find out more specifics? If we are able to narrow down times and types of issues it would help us to focus our response and to see if we can connect with other community partners, and residents themselves, to become part of the solution.”
Good start.
Burlington has gone through a series of Commanding Officers in the last year or so – three that we can recall.
Both the Fire Chief and now the top police officer for Burlington are women – progress
 By Staff
July 13th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
City Council yesterday approved Climate Resilient Burlington: A Plan for Adapting to Our Warmer, Wetter and Wilder Weather.
This plan identifies Burlington’s risks and vulnerabilities from climate change and is directly related to 2018-2022 Burlington’s Plan: From Vision to Focus.
About the Climate Resilient Burlington plan
 This is what wet looks like The purpose of the Climate Resilient Burlington (CRB) plan is to identify actions to manage the highest risks of warmer, wetter and wilder weather. While the CRB plan considers Burlington’s climate projections to the years 2051-2080 under a high emissions scenario, the plan outlines 32 actions under five themes focusing on building resilience and preparing for a changing climate over the next 10 years. Although this is Burlington’s first climate adaptation plan, work is not starting from scratch, but rather building on initiatives already underway.
The CRB plan was developed with City staff and community stakeholders representing 12 City departments and 17 community organizations. The community was also engaged throughout the process through a number of measures including a dedicated project page, a public project launch and surveys.
CRB Themes and Goals
Theme 1: Resilient Built and Natural Infrastructure
Goal: Manage infrastructure to prepare for future climate conditions and carbon neutral goals
Goal: Enhance resilience of infrastructure exposed to high flood risk
Goal: Invest in proactive measures to prepare for increased extreme events to avoid post-storm reactive costs
Theme 2: Thriving Natural Environment
Goal: Reduce damage to trees while increasing the value of the services they provide
Goal: Value, conserve and enhance the multiple services that natural areas provide
Theme 3: Extreme Heat and Health
Goal: Provide City services to support the community during extreme heat events
Theme 4: Disaster Resilience
Goal: Build capacity in the community to prepare for and respond to more extreme events and long-term climate stresses
Goal: Encourage climate adaptation actions from citizens and businesses
Theme 5: Strong and Resilient Economy
Goal: Support agricultural community in preparing for climate change
Goal: Support and develop resilient local supply chains to help withstand impacts associated with extreme climate events outside of Burlington
 This isn’t what warmer did – that 2013 winter storm Projects with links to climate actions underway
There are several climate actions already underway through various City departments and projects. Each item listed has a direct link to reducing risk, reducing emissions or preparing for climate change effects.
- Alert Burlington – Community Notification System
- Cooling and Warming Centres in partnership with Burlington Public Library
- Home Flood Protection Assessment Program
- Plumbing Permit Fee Grant Program
- Stormwater infrastructure improvements such as larger creek culverts and creek channel improvements
- Burlington Stormwater Management Design Guidelines
- Urban Forest Master Plan
- Municipal Natural Assets Initiative – Grindstone Creek Watershed Project
- Spencer Smith Park and Beachway stabilization and wave breaks
- Asset Management Plan
- Climate Action Plan (focusing on reducing community emissions)
- Corporate Energy and Emissions Management Plan
- City View Park pavilion and solar installation
- Anti-idling campaign and bylaw
- Expansion of the City’s electric vehicle charging stations
- Electric Mobility Strategy
- Corporate Green Fleet Strategy
- Integrated Mobility Plan (focusing on active and public transportation)
- Rural Active Transportation Strategy
- Cycling Plan, a component of the Integrated Mobility Plan, which includes projects such as the Plains Road bikeway improvements
- Major Transit Station Areas (MTSA)
 Pretty wild Related news story;
Lawson Hunter urges Council to take the report seriously – they said they would
Climate Resilient Burlington, Get involved page: getinvolvedburlington.ca/crb
By Pepper Parr
July 12th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
We reported earlier today that the Mayor had some “Urgent Business” on the Agenda which she wanted to revise.
After a bit of time on some procedural stuff Council did go into CLOSED SESSION, stayed there for a bit over and hour and came out with a motion that read:
Direct the executive director of human resources to execute on the performance clause in accordance with the city manager’s employment contract.
The public has never seen the contract – they are rarely made public. It is clear now that there was a “performance clause”
Councillor Kearns was the first to comment on the motion saying:
 Councillor Kearns was chosen as the person who would speak to the decision made on the Commisso contract. “This motion is a strong signal, although it is contained within a contract. It’s a strong signal about accountability and responsiveness to deliver results for the constituents that we serve. We know that this happens from the very very top and the very, very top also sets culture and objectives and we’ve moved from a year to year to a four year to a much longer view.
“And the objectives that are set out with the city manager, you know, are very much tied to those. So what this reflects is us having the ability to carry out and execute on a section within his contract that is directly tied to performance and it is our role through our governance roles to make sure that we are asking for and having those deliverables met and also stretching out to performance development.
“So this really is something I’m quite proud to support as anyone who has been watching along we did have quite a long time have a very robust dialogue and all of that dialogue centered around how we can all together serve our constituents in the best way possible. So I am of course pleased to support this and I have it seconded by Councillor Sharman.”
There were no other speakers. The Mayor added “we appreciate the work you do for us, Tim and subjecting yourself to a review like all others in the corporation have to go through is leadership by example. We had a thorough discussion, and we’re happy to have you.
A recorded vote was required – the decision to approve the motion was passed unanimously.
At the close of the meeting Tim spoke for a moment and said this assignment is the one he is most proud of in his municipal career.
There were clearly issues with at least some of what Commisso was getting done and what wasn’t getting done.
The Mayor was not exactly effusive with her comments. As the seconder Sharman made no comment.
What was it that made this matter one of “Urgent Business” ? Something.
We have some information but the source would be identified were we to publish. The practice of keeping everything under wraps is never healthy – but that is the route this cancel is taking
Related news story:
Council agenda get revised to handle some Urgent Business
By Staff
July 12, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
This – direct from City Hall!
It’s easy to connect with the City of Burlington. Whatever City service you are looking for, we are ready to help you. Connect with us online and virtually, via email, by phone and in-person. Choose the option that works best for you. Book appointments that suit your schedule.
Here’s how to connect with us
Phone
Call Service Burlington at 905-335-7777 Monday to Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Email
Send us an email at city@burlington.ca.
Visit
You can visit Service Burlington in its temporary location on the third floor of 390 Brant St., beside City Hall. Enter from Elgin Street. Some in-person services such as marriage licences and commissioning require an appointment. Visit burlington.ca or call 905-335-7777 to arrange a time.
Additionally, the Burlington Bus Terminal at 430 John St. and City recreation facilities are also available for in-person help.
Virtual
You can connect with us virtually via Microsoft Teams. Call 905-335-7777 to set up a time.
Online
Visit us at burlington.ca.
Quick Facts
- The following in-person payments are available at Service Burlington, Monday to Friday, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.:
– Parking permits and tickets
– Property taxes
– Freedom of Information requests
– Garbage tags
– Dog licenses
– Property information requests
– Recreation services
- Many services are also available online at burlington.ca/onlineservices.
- The average wait time to answer phone calls to 905-335-7777 is five seconds or less.
 Angela Morgan, Strategic Lead, Customer Experience Angela Morgan, Strategic Lead, Customer Experience and a former City Clerk had this to say about communicating with the city:
“We want our customers to know we’re here to help. As we emerge from wide-spread lockdowns, and as the construction continues on the main floor of City Hall, we have had some customers ask us how they can connect with City staff.
The City of Burlington is operating with a mix of in-person, remote and off-site work and is ready to help customers with whatever City service they need in the way that is most convenient for them.”
By Staff
July 12th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Two items were added to the City Council meeting Tuesday afternoon as “Urgent Business”
The Mayor revised the Agenda to bring these two items to the top of the Agenda because outside counsel was to take part
They two items are:
14.1
Integrity Commissioner RFP/Contract Approval
Re-Appoint Principles Integrity as the Integrity Commissioners for the City of Burlington and its local boards pursuant to section 223.3(1) of the Municipal Act for a term to December 31, 2026.
Authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute an agreement and any ancillary documents between the City of Burlington and Principles Integrity for integrity commissioner services, in a form satisfactory to the Executive Director of Legal Services and Corporation Counsel.
14.2
Confidential verbal update regarding City Manager Performance Review
Pursuant to Section 239(2)(b) of the Municipal Act, personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees.
It would be hard to come up with a reason for outside Counsel to be involved in the issuing of a new contract for the services of an Integrity Commissioner – but one never knows.
 The second item – a Performance Review of the City Manager and the job he has done. The review is a normal part of how municipalities operate – by why a need for outside counsel?
It will be interesting to see what comes out of the Closed Session.
Has Tim Commisso finally had enough and wants out of his contract and has a lawyer in the room?
Something is up!
By Pepper Parr
July 12th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Is this the first step[p into entering the race for the ward 2 council seat?
The line in an item on the LinkedIn platform read:
 Is Kimberly Calderbank getting ready to get back into politics ? Looking to hire a Coordinator.
Work from home/Virtual opportunity.
The candidate will work with both Yellow Robot Marketing and Black Robot (Print shop).
Detail-oriented, and experienced. Positive, can-do attitude.
Tasks may include –
Liaise with clients
Coordinate print schedule
Review/Proof-read social media posts and schedule
Source opportunities for speaking engagements/business growth
Excellent customer service.
Past work experience with not-for-profit/charity is a great asset.
Please email your interest/resume to Kimberly@yellowrobot.ca
I never saw the Yellow Robot operation as a not for profit – it is certainly a going concern.
The background story might be that Kimberly Calderbank is bringing in some administrative help to free up the time she will need if she decides to challenge Lisa Kearns for the ward 2 city council seat.
 It will be a much smaller list of candidates in 2022 In the years since the 2018 municipal election Kimberly has grown professionally. She serves as the media lead for the Halton Police Services Board and for the Ontario Police Services Board. She does media for the Food4Life and was a Cogeco commentator during the Sound of Music parade.
Kimberly Calderbank has an itch for public service. This may be the year she makes a move. She once told this reporter that she wanted at some point in time to be Mayor of the city.
By Pepper Parr
July 12th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
 For Leah Reynolds it was always about the students After 8 years of public service Leah Reynolds said: “I’m retiring at the end of the school board term.”
“I have decided not to run in the 2022 Municipal Election.
I’m humbled and grateful to have served as a Trustee for the Halton District School Board (HDSB) and represented students and families from the Aldershot and Downtown Burlington Communities (Wards 1 and 2) these last 8 years.
“I want to express my thanks to the constituents who allowed me to represent them at the HDSB board table. My gratitude goes out to all my volunteers and supporters who inspired me and did everything they could to get me elected.
“My decision to step up and get involved was because schools are the heart of our community. As a parent, I advocated and volunteered for well over 20 years, including as a council member and school chair. I volunteered for in-school reading, and nutrition programs. I was active in community projects that included fundraising for playground equipment and auditorium renewals.
“Those early years provided a solid foundation for me to serve eight years as your Trustee. I am proud to deliver on my commitment for improvements to the future of high school programming, with support for skills trades, and a solid plan for school amalgamations that included transitioning and expanded programming for students with special needs.
“While these last few years have been the most challenging, I supported changes always with the lens of student achievement and well-being. Leading through a pandemic, I did my best within the limits of what we were provided. I was so proud to have been part of a system that shifted our collective focus to improving wellness, equity, and inclusion, and increased awareness of Indigeneity and the environment. We did this while encouraging innovative new approaches to how schools can evolve and continuously improve.”
Reynolds represented wards 1 and 2 during a period of time when the high school in her wards was threatened with closure.
 Leah Reynolds with Marianne Meed Ward The two women were always close when they both represented ward 2 residents. Reynolds, who has always been close to then ward 2 city Councillor Marianne Meed Ward, got tangled up in a sticky situation during the tumultuous school board debates.
“We all want our students to see themselves at our board table. It is my hope that candidates from all backgrounds will put their names forward in the next election.
Related news story:
Reynolds accused of being coached during a school board debate
Resident writes Open letter on the coaching issue
By Pepper Par
July 12th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Wednesday, July 20th, 2022 / 1:30 – 2:30 PM
Light Refreshments & Small Group Tours
OUTDOOR EVENT – RAIN OR SHINE
Burlington Green has pulled of a really smart opportunity.
I was tipped off that there was a major news story coming – that was as much as the informant would say.
Then the announcement came out that the Pump House on Lakeshore Road was going to serve as a EcoHub for Burlington Green – what a great idea.
Then I wondered how that came about – put a bunch of questions to Any Schnurr who tried at first to slide by them – a little more poking the near and Any explained.
 A significant piece of the city’s infrastructure history has been repurposed – fitting that it becomes the new home for Burlington Green The city had posted a Request for Proposals i=on their web site.
Someone at Burlington Green immediately saw the benefits for their organization.
 The Pump House served as a private residence when it no longer pumped water They put together a response and the city bought it – and why not. The Pump House is a significant part of the city’s infrastructure history. At one point that location pumped all the water Burlington needed to households across the city. Burlington was probably a town when all this happened.
The building underwent some major upgrades – the roof was replaced and some of the architectural features were given some help.
The inside was basically bare – running water and heat.
The basement is dry – for a building that close to the lake to have a dry basement attests to some solid construction work.
The city then put out proposals and found a woman who wanted to set up a beach xxx operation. You could rent chairs, umbrellas, paddle boats. It was a good idea but when Covid19 shut down the city it wasn’t viable – rent had to be paid and there were no customers.
The building was empty – again.
This is one of those win win situations. A part of the city’s heritage was being put to good use and an important part of the city’s not for profit community had a new home.
The current pumping station and water treatment plant are just across the road.
Hopefully Amy will learn from this experience that getting as much information as possible out as early as possible is part of being transparent and accountable.
The Mayor will apparently cut a ribbon – we thought she might go for a swim.
You are asked to reserve at:
https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/burlingtongreen-eco-hub-launch-tickets-382645351547
By Pepper Parr
July 11th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Many elected leaders determined to be managers – Elected officials need to concentrate on where they add value.
“Leading: The Real Value of a Mayor and Council” by George Cuff, is back on shelves.
 Council members have a budget that will cover the cost of the book. Municipal management guru George Cuff makes a compelling argument that municipalities today are not nearly as well served as they should be – because their elected leaders have, in many instances, determined they would rather be the managers. As a result, far too much effort and time is being spent on how staff can do a better job in their roles, without recognizing that, in order to do so, elected officials need to concentrate on where they add value.
Leading others is a simple yet profound duty and privilege, writes Cuff, as he digs into questions around leadership and what it requires from those who step forward at the local level.
Coming from someone with a excellent reputation backed by years of municipal level experience and tonnes of consulting assignment – this is a guy Councillors might want to listen to.
The Gazette has blown its gift budget for this year – we would haved like to have been able to buy a copy of the book and have it sent to the seven members of Council.
George Cuff barely got through high school having found sports and girls a distraction from his studies. As a result, he did not go directly to University but began work as an accountant with the Royal Bank and then after a couple of years there, he moved on to an oil and gas company where he continued his frustration as an accounting clerk.
 George B. Cuff – has wisdom to share with municipal Councillors. Cuff set up his own firm of George B. Cuff & Associates Ltd. (1984) and since then has focused on providing advice and counsel to rural and urban governments, provincial departments and agencies and other groups involved in some aspect of governance and public service. His work has become more focused over time on the art of governance and the elements that help organizations become more effective.
Cuff has published over 450 articles as well as ten books on local government. He has three “how to” books (Cuff’s Guide Volumes One and Two as well as his “Executive Policy Governance” which was published in 2014.
By Pepper Parr
July 11th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Council met this morning – as a Standing Committee to review a major report on Community Benefits, Section 37 and Development charges.
It was an important matter that had good discussion that we will report on at length later this week.
 Council attendance – those with an X didn’t manage to make it to city hall. That 5:00 is the clock that lets people speaking how much time they have left.. The “news” at this point is that two of the seven members of Council actually made it to city hall.
Councillors Sharman and Bentivegna were in the council chamber – the other five: the Mayor, Stolte of ward 4, Nisan of Ward 3, Kearns of ward 2 and Galbraith of ward 1 chose to take part from the comfort of their homes.
This is becoming a habit – and not a particularly positive one.
Getting ready to announce her candidacy for Mayor Anne Marsden said:
“Speechless especially following a great weekend weather wise. Perhaps they don’t want any delegations to look them in the eye, given they have managed to avoid that for most of their term. It took forever and repeatedly banging away at in-house delegation was a right.before they folded but chose to protect themselves from delegations looking them in the eye by allowing Council and Committees to be hybrid full-time rather than if sick and should not be attending in person.”
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