 By Connie Price
June 24th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
When the Burlington Gazette envisioned providing some free fabric face masks using donated material, to those in the community who most needed them, it wasn’t imagined that it would evolve into a small manufacturing operation with 20+ people involved.
 Heather sewing masks with all the parts in front of her.  Jan Mowbray stitching together the four ties needed for each of the 3000 masks. The process starts with cutting the bolts of material to mask size, as well as the making of 1000s of ties, which then needed to be transported from Jan’s home in Milton to two Transfer Houses (in east and west Burlington), where the bags of material with 50 masks each are held by Lynda and Nadine, until the Sewers need them.
Design improvements, upgrades and suggestions have been welcomed and implemented from the dedicated volunteer Sewers, Heather, Helen, Sharon, Chris, Tina, Ann, Ruth, Bernie, Rosa & Clair, who are located across Burlington and even into Milton.
Several volunteer Drivers, John, Fred, Cathy & Wayne have the responsibility of transporting the material bags to the Sewers’ front porches and then picking the sewn masks up and returning them to the Transfer Houses, to be packaged, along with Canada’s Guidelines for the Use and Care of Fabric Face Masks, held for 72 hours in quarantine, before a member of the Burlington Lions Club picks them up, delivering them to the Agencies for distribution to those most in need of masks.
 Tie strings ready to go to the mask assemblers.  Rev. Sheila Plant giving a quarantined mask to a food package from the St. Luke’s Food For Life Program These masks are included in the porch-delivered Food Hampers to anyone in need of extra food by the Burlington Food Bank, with many also supplied for the people receiving the Take Home Dinners at Wellington Square Church on Monday, Wednesdays and Fridays, 12 noon to 4pm.
These meals are cooked and prepared by the many dedicated volunteers from Wellington Square Friday Dinner crew, St. Christopher’s Open Doors and Glad Tidings Church cooks, as well as soups made by the cooking group at Next Door Social Space. Approximately 1000 meals a week are distributed by this very worthwhile endeavor.
Some masks have also been delivered to the tenants at Wellington Terrace Seniors’ Apartments, made available to Donors at St. Matthews Drive-through Drop-off Monday & Wednesday 12 noon-3pm Food Collection Blitzes for the Food Bank and Compassion Society and also to St. Luke’s Church, Food For Life Food Bag, Tuesday distributions.
 Connie P and Lynda H putting masks in envelopes where they are quarantined for 72 hours and then distributed within the community. Behind the scenes of the mask making project, there are the very important support workers like Jim, at Burlington Baptist Church, who orders, prints the instruction sheets and Sponsor labels then affixes them to the mask packaging envelopes, Fred and Peggy who warehouse extra material and supplies, Penny overseeing distribution and ideas for upgrading with the Sewers, and Connie who does the overall organizing of where and what stages the masks are in and who needs what, when.
 Ward 3 Councillor Shawna Stolte and her daughter model the masks. To date over 1600 masks have been distributed, with another 1400 in various stages of construction. These are planned to be supplied to other Food For Life locations, tenants at subsidized Seniors’ apartment buildings, as well as new clients at the Food Bank and Take Home Dinner project.
Two of the city’s council members wear and distribute the masks.
 Grace at St. Matthews church where food donations are collected and masks handed out. Masks are being supplied to other Food For Life locations, tenants at subsidized Seniors’ apartment buildings, as well as new clients at the Food Bank and Take Home Dinner project.
This mask endeavor has shown, without doubt, that there is a village of volunteers in our community, who care about and are willing to step up and help their neighbours keep as safe as possible during this difficult pandemic.
A HUGE Thank You to every one of the volunteers involved in the Gazette Community Face Mask Initiative.
 By Pepper Parr
June 24th, 2020
BURLINGTON ON
Mayor Meed Ward is sharing her correspondence from the Hon. Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing in which he outlined the proposed changes in population growth numbers issued by the province.
Each part of the province is assigned a number that sets out what the province expects the population to be between now and 2051
The information is in the provinces More Homes, More Choice: Ontario’s Housing Supply Action Plan.
The update is to three major pieces of legislation:
growth targets to 2051;
mineral aggregate operations; and
land-use needs/assessment.
 The two thick black lines at the bottom left mark the data projection. The figures are the number of people that will be added by 2051. The current population of the Region is about 550,000 Here are the direct links to the proposed changes on the Province’s website — the deadline for comments is July 31, and the City of Burlington will be submitting our comments to the provincial government.
According to the proposed growth targets for Halton Region, at the high end it is 1.156 million and at the low end it’s 1.060 million for 2051
Using the highest number, Halton will determine how much of the 1.156 million will go to each municipality: Burlington, Oakville, Milton and Halton Hills.
Given the current population numbers Milton is likely to get the bulk. Halton Hills does not have the water infrastructure that is needed – Milton does.
The current population of the Region is in the 550,000 people.
In his letter the Minister said:
In 2019, our government introduced A Place to Grow: Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe (‘the Plan’, ‘A Place to Grow’) as part of the More Homes, More Choice: Ontario’s Housing Supply Action Plan. Today, I am writing to notify you of proposed changes to the Plan including updates and policy changes to the population and employment forecasts, a change to the Plan horizon year, a new Land Needs Assessment methodology, adjustments to the aggregates policy framework, new policies to address Major Transit Station Areas within Provincially Significant Employment Zones (PSEZs), and other policy revisions that support our government’s objectives to increase housing supply, create more jobs, attract business investments and better align infrastructure. We are asking for your input on these proposed amendments to the Plan.
I realize the proposed changes come at a time of uncertainty when many municipalities are managing urgent matters related to our shared work to protect the health and well-being of our residents across Ontario. The Greater Golden Horseshoe (GGH) will be critical to economic recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 outbreak. The GGH is a key economic driver of both the province and the nation, with more than 85 per cent of the province’s population growth expected in this region by 2051. In fact, we are anticipating that by 2051 this region will grow to nearly 15 million people and accommodate seven million jobs. In order to support municipalities in preparing for this anticipated growth so that you can complete your municipal comprehensive review and official plan revisions, my ministry is proposing these targeted revisions to A Place to Grow to make it faster and easier for municipalities in the region to plan for growth.
Details of the proposed changes are as follows:
The proposed changes would work together to provide more flexibility and foresight to municipalities into demographic, employment, market demand, and housing affordability trends in the GGH. The consultation period will close on July 31, 2020. We look forward to receiving any comments you may have.
The next phase of work on PSEZs, which will begin shortly, will examine how they can support post-COVID economic recovery to support the retention and expansion of existing industrial and manufacturing operations and attract investment. The government continues to view PSEZs as an important tool and looks forward to engaging with businesses, municipalities, Indigenous communities and organizations, and the development industry to maximize opportunities within a PSEZ.
 By Staff
June 24th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police Service arrested a massage therapist who was working at a clinic in Burlington.
The incident occurred in February 2020 and the victim was a client.
Dominic Carrasco (53) of Burlington has been charged with one count of Sexual Assault.
Police believe there may be additional victims.
 Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Keith Nakahara of the Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Unit at 905-825-4747 ext. 8980.
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 Clair Nash
June 24th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
In these unprecedented times, it is always good to see local businesses supporting each other. Burlington’s various businesses and professional services are no different. In recent weeks, there have been multiple cases where local firms and specialists have been working to make life easier for residents.
In times that are unparalleled in recent history, it makes sense for businesses to reach out to one another. Competition reigns, but with uncertainty riding high, the time has come for Burlington to pull together. All manner of industries are facing tighter times – and those looking for entertainment in the local area are drifting towards Canadian online casinos for safe fun.
Conditions will not last forever, but Burlington is ready to offer comfort and care for as long as it takes.
 The law is complex and procedural and you need guidance at least should you need legal help. Pro Bono Legal Support
A key way in which local businesses in Burlington are supporting residents is through legal care. At this time, many individuals and business owners will be looking for reliable legal support. Unfortunately for consumers, businesses need to make money, too.
However, recent news shows that the National Canadian Lawyers Initiative has stepped in to offer pro bono support. Specifically, people across Ontario will now be able to reach out to NCLI offices for free legal advice.
Residents in Burlington may never know when they need to help of a lawyer or attorney. However, for simple legal affairs, reaching out for advice is now more accessible than ever. It is just one example of how Burlington is making life easier for residents.
Celebrating Local Workers
Of course, businesses and local firms are celebrating hard-working people, too, in these hard times. For example, Sofina Foods, based in Burlington, recently received a special lunch in their honor. Workers at Sofina’s slaughterhouse are continuing to push themselves and to drive for quality produce during uncertain times.
Workers at Sofina’s facility in Burlington received free lunches on behalf of Foodies Anonymous and Ontario Pork. Due to restrictions, workers were only able to enjoy their lunches individually – but the gesture has not gone unnoticed.
 Volunteers putting together food hampers for those who are not employed due to Covid19 Key workers in Burlington are continuing to help provide essential services and sustenance to people across the town, and indeed across the region. While at the moment it may be difficult to celebrate our key workers as much as we may like, there are still ways we can show appreciation.
Pressing On Together
Burlington is a community that pulls together in hard times. It’s clear that, while current conditions may not last forever, people are relying on each other more than ever before.
With news media filling up with negative stories, it’s always worth looking to local sources for positive inspiration. The hard work of Sofina’s team and the NCLI’s pro bono support are just two examples. As time rolls on, it’s likely more Burlington businesses will pull together.
It’s always worth taking a moment to appreciate key workers in your area. Think about how difficult your life may be without them!
By Staff
June 24th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The Burlington Food Bank was recently contacted by Feed Ontario to help the provincial government get a better understanding of the effects of the Pandemic on Food Banks in regards to client usage and community support since Covid-19 took effect.
 Robin Bailey, Executive Director of the Burlington Food Bank Robin Bailey, Executive Director of the Food Ban said “They also wanted to know what we were doing to prepare for the long term needs that many in our community will face.
“For us at the Burlington Food Bank, we have seen an increase in usage and an increase in new clients and have also recognized great community support through Food Drives and financial donations.
“We have been able to support everyone that has called us for help, increased the fresh produce and other food we distribute and in addition, when local food agencies ask us for assistance, we do our best to support them as well. One of the other results of the current state is we have seen an increase in the number of people in Burlington offering to volunteer with us which has been a huge help in managing the extra work.
“So we are in excellent shape to support more clients as needed and we are now preparing for a transition in delivery method options as we see the City moving towards Phase 3.
 The volunteers that make the place work every day of the week. “We have been able to support everyone that has called us for help, increased the fresh produce and other food we distribute and in addition, when local food agencies ask us for assistance, we do our best to support them as well. Nice to see them asking for our numbers and seeing that they are coordinating with all city Food Banks in Ontario.
If you are in need or know of someone who could use our help PLEASE have them email us at info@burlingtonfoodbank.ca or call 905-637-2273 to make arrangements to have food dropped at their door or they can now PICK IT UP. If you live in Burlington, we are here to help.
By Staff
June 24th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
 Lowville Park will partially reopen on Monday, June 29, 2020.
Visiting Lowville Park will look different than it did prior to the COVID-19 pandemic; the City of Burlington is putting measures in place to help visitors have a safe park experience during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Parking
Parking lot capacity has been reduced to 50 per cent to allow for physical distance spacing and prevent overcrowding. The entrance will be monitored and vehicles may be turned away when parking has reached capacity. Street parking is not permitted, parking enforcement will be in effect. Illegally parked vehicles will be tagged and/or towed.
 Bronte Creek runs through the park where the salmon spawn and children get to play. What’s open and closed in Lowville Park
Washrooms will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. Water is not potable and visitors are reminded to bring their own drinking water.
The playground portion of the park remains closed. Staff levels are reduced so please clean up your area and put waste in receptacles or take it home for disposal.
No picnic permits are being issued at this time to comply with municipal and provincial state of emergency group gathering restrictions.
Reduce the spread
 View of the park from thee steps of the school house. Visitors are reminded to continue to be vigilant about public health practices and provincial directives to reduce the spread of COVID-19, including:
Maintaining 2 metre physical distance from others
Gathering in groups of 10 or fewer
Staying home if you feel sick
Washing and sanitizing hands before, during and after visiting the park.
The Lowville Park is a neighbourhood park during the week in the off season. During the summer it is a place where large families gather and cook meals on hibachis and enjoy their food. On occasion there are several large families that become an event for everyone.
There will have to be some adjusting as we give people a place to enjoy themselves, respect the safety requirements and make allowances for each other.
Walt Rickli, often the spokesperson for the Lowville community, reported on their meeting with the Mayor and the ward councilor. “A number of Lowville residents”, reported Rickli, ” had expressed concerns about the potential for over-crowding, traffic management and the ability to adhere to Covid regulations, as we lead into Canada Day. As a result of these concerns, the city advised us that over the short term they will be employing the follow measures for weekends and holidays when the park is most used:
 Walt Rickli, on the left, is often the spokesperson for the Lowville community. “The city will be hiring two off-duty police officers. One will be situated at the corner of Guelph Line and Lowville Park Road to control traffic coming in and out of the park. If the park is full, traffic will not be allowed to enter Lowville Park Rd. The second officer will be patrolling the park to ensure visitors are abiding by Covid social distancing requirements as well as park rules. There will also be several Park Ambassadors to help out.
“The parking lot will only be permitted to fill to 50% of capacity. To ensure this, there will be a parking enforcement/by-law officer at the entrance to Lowville Park. As well, 1/2 the parking lot will be barricaded to prevent parking there.
“The children’s playground will be cordoned off to abide by current Covid regulations. Garbage cans which were removed during the Covid lockdown, will be returned.
“And finally, as per provincial Covid regulations, the washrooms will be manned and supervised to limit the number of people allowed in at any given time, and will be frequently cleaned and sanitized.
“During the meeting, a few points were raised that the city will be getting back to us to confirm. First are the hours the park will be manned on holidays and weekends ? Residents advised that traffic on weekends and holidays often goes from 7:30 am to well into the evening. The second point was regarding picnic tables. Currently picnic tables are all grouped together which does not facilitate social distancing. A suggestion was to remove some of the tables to ensure all are appropriately distanced from each other.
“Over-crowding has been an ongoing issue for Lowville Park, so the Mayor and Ward Counselor also advised us that a pilot project is in the works to help ease the stress on the park environment and the surrounding community over the long term. They are looking at following a similar approach to what Conservation Halton has done with their parks, which would include installing a gatehouse with an arm among other things. This will replace the above measures once Covid regulations are reduced.”
 By Pepper Parr
June 23rd, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
A seasoned commercial real estate developer bought a home in Burlington in 3Q 2019.
He and his wife and their child were looking forward to the move but before the moving trucks were called the met with an architect who drew up some plans they wanted to make to the house,
The architect met with the appropriate people in Burlington’s Planning department where the plans had to be approved before a Building Permit could be issued.
 City of Adjustment counter at city hall during a festive season. There was a bit of confusion that got cleared up. The Planners weren’t the problem. The property owner needs a building permit which he can’t get until there is a decision from Committee of Adjustment (CoA). The planner’s hands are tied.
An application was made to the CoA for a minor variance– that was turned down.
The property owner understood, he knew the rules and was more than prepared to abide by whatever those who gave permissions required.
The plan for the addition to the newly purchased house were revised again and ready for the second submission to the CoA early in March
Then Covid19 hit – and everything came to a grinding halt.
The problem for the homeowner who now owned the Burlington residence was that he had sold his home elsewhere in the GTA.
The need to get before the Burlington CoA took on a new urgency.
The problem was made more complex when the CoA found that it could not give dates for hearing that were going to be virtual.
Hamilton was able to hold Committee of Adjustment hearings but none of the smaller municipalities were ready.
The homeowner met with a real estate agent in Burlington looking for a home that could be rented. He found one that would meet what was becoming a pressing need.
The home that was being sold was due to close at the end of June – which was fast approaching.
All the homeowner could get from Burlington’s Committee of Adjustment was that they expected to begin holding hearings in July – not when in July – just July.
The homeowner wanted to know where he stood in the pecking order – was he number 1 or number 101.
Everyone is being polite – what isn’t understood is – what is taking the Burlington CoA so long to get to the point where they can hold virtual hearings.
No one seems to have an answer.
The property owner wasn’t able to get much from the ward 4 Councillor. He got a bit more from the ward 1 Councillor who was more attuned to development issues
Burlington city council has been doing business virtually for a couple of months. The Regional government has been doing things virtually for several months.
Why not the Committee of Adjustment? No one is talking.
The property owner needs to know how long he has to rent for. He is currently looking at a year. Yikes!
By Pepper Parr
June 22, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
At the Standing Committee earlier in the month a Staff Report on the Emshih Developments request for an additional six months extension for Phase II of their Garden Trails sub-division to be tidied up.
The Staff report didn’t see it as quite that simple and set out their concerns.
The subject lands are located south of Provincial Highway 403 and the CN Railway tracks, at the terminus of Genista Drive and are approximately 3.8 hectares in size. The lands are made up of two blocks within a Registered Plan of Subdivision and are adjacent to a tributary of Grindstone Creek, which is located south of the subject lands.
In 2001, the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB), now known as the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal (LPAT), approved the draft plan of subdivision to facilitate Phase II of the subject draft plan of subdivision, which includes the creation of 20 single detached lots fronting onto a new municipal road, being the extension of Genista Drive; the creation of new servicing blocks and the establishment of a new Open Space block.
As part of the draft approval, the applicant was required to satisfy the conditions provided within three years. Since the time of draft approval in 2001, the applicant was granted several extensions to the timeframe in which to clear conditions, with the current lapsing date being June 30, 2020.
In November 2019 the applicant requested to extend the lapsing date by an additional three years to June of 2023. As part of this request, staff reviewed the remaining conditions of draft approval and are of the opinion that the applicant has not been demonstrating that they have been actively working toward clearing conditions of draft approval. In addition, staff is of the opinion that a further extension is not appropriate as substantial policy changes have taken place since the original draft approval in 2001, which conflict with the draft approved plans.
Despite the Staff recommendation the Standing Committee decided the developer should get the extension.
That Standing Committee decision came before Council yesterday where it got another hour of debate. The Mayor was adamant – the developer would have to file a new application – any extension was not warranted.
The four who were prepared to give the extension stuck to their positions which produced a classic Burlington division – a 4-3 decision.
Mayor Meed Ward wasn’t able to sway any of the four (Sharman, Bentivegna, Kearns and Galbraith) but she was able to sew some doubt on the costs involved which resulted in City Treasurer Joan Ford having to write a report for the August round of meetings. The Mayor also managed to raise some legal issues which resulted in City Solicitor Nancy Shea Nicol also having to write a report for the August round of meetings.
The motion to extend the development application for six months got revised to just two months while the Treasurer and the Solicitor wrote their reports.
 Phase II of the Garden Trails development (shown in green) was the result of an OMB decision that was handed down close to 20 years ago. At Standing Committee earlier in the month Councillors Sharman, Kearns, Bentivegna and Galbraith were prepared to give Enshih Developments the six months they felt they needed to resolve the differences with the Planning department.
At Council Mayor Meed Ward didn’t want to go along with what was a clear council majority and used an hour to badger her colleagues into going along with her wishes. She went so far as to say the developer had done a good job of lobbying Galbraith and Kearns and providing them with information the rest of Council didn’t have.
Councillors Sharman and Bentivegna thought the request for the additional six months to resolve the differences before the application was closed down by the Planning department was reasonable.
 Mayor Meed Ward who appears to be standing by herself during the playing of the National Anthem at the beginning of a city council meeting. There were three other people in the Council Chamber. City council meets virtually – with the rest of Council elsewhere communicating via Zoom. The Mayor along with Councillors Nisan and Stolte were opposed to giving the developer an opportunity to bring the technical parts of the application up to date arguing that the legislation and environmental requirements had changed so much that a new application would be required.
The Staff report painted the big picture –
The subject lands are located south of Provincial Highway 403 and the CN Railway tracks, at the terminus of Genista Drive and are approximately 3.8 hectares in size. The lands are made up of two blocks within a Registered Plan of Subdivision and are adjacent to a tributary of Grindstone Creek, which is located south of the subject lands.
Staff believed the policy changes since the 2001 OMB decision made any further extension inappropriate.
Sometime in August, when Councillors usually have the month off they will go at this again.
The Mayor’s remark that two of the Councillors were heavily lobbied and given information the rest of Council didn’t have may result in heels being dug in even deeper.
Some really snarky remarks passed between the Councillors with several Points of Order put on the table that had to be resolved by the City Clerk.
Throughout the debate all of the Councillors repeated to each other that they were pleased with the “collaborative” approach that was being taken.
There was more manipulation than collaboration on this matter at City Council yesterday afternoon.
Staff, in their report did say that:
Based on a review of the submitted materials and the nature of the technical comments received, a substantial amount of additional information is still outstanding and would need to be provided to demonstrate that the proposed development is able to achieve compliance with the current policy framework and regulations. Given the time that has elapsed since Draft Approval was first granted in 2001, several studies and reports would require updating and thorough review by staff.
The policy framework has changed substantially since draft plan approval in 2001, and given the ecological significance of the lands, it is important that current standards and regulations are considered and maintained. It is not appropriate to assess the proposal using outdated policy framework given that the applicant has not actively been working toward clearing conditions. In the opinion of staff, these requirements are not minor and should not be considered as part of an extension request; but rather, be more appropriately comprehensively reviewed as part of a new plan of subdivision application.
For these reasons, staff are of the opinion that the extension of the draft approval should not be granted and that a new plan of subdivision application should be submitted by the applicant.
A majority of Council didn’t see it that way. The decision yesterday was to give very short extension while reports are prepared by Legal and Finance.
The original motion that made it through the Standing Committee earlier in the month consisted of just the first paragraph with the date of December 31st. The revised motion brought in the City Treasurer and the City Solicitor who were to produce their take for the August round of Council meetings.
Related news story:
Standing Committee agrees to give developer an additional six months to tidy up an old subdivision application.
By Pepper Parr
June 22nd, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Alex Don, a Burlington native, a graduate of Assumption High school and a Member of the Upper Canada Law Society with a legal education that took place in France, England and McGill University, has created a not-for-profit organization that is offering pro bono legal services across Canada using a network of 400 volunteers.
 Alex Don, founder of the National Canadian Lawyers Initiative. While studying in Strasbourg France Don served as a Clerk for a Judge with the Court of Human Rights where he became much more aware of the need to respect the rights and needs of ordinary people within the Judicial system.
When he began to practice law he chose the field of insolvency and corporate reorganization as his specialty.
Don first saw the need for help for those who were hit by the impact of Covid19. They needed legal help but didn’t have the funds needed to retain a lawyer but more importantly – they didn’t know where to look for the help they needed. For many their normal income stream had dried up.
When Alex Don started receiving calls from people who were encountering legal problems as result of the COVID-19 crisis, but were unable to provide a retainer because their income had been affected he decided to create an organization that could meet the needs of several groups.
The National Canadian Lawyers Initiative (NCLI), which currently has an office in Burlington, was founded on April 28 and received approval from the Law Society of Ontario to provide pro bono legal service on May 14.
 NCLI was created to improve the access to justice especially during the COVID19 period. Alex Don then realized that access to justice was a problem for many people long before we had to deal with Covid19.
“When I started receiving calls” said Don ” I soon realized there was a very large unmet need. That was when the idea for a national organization took for in my mind.
“We created a platform where this help could be made available
“The volunteer lawyers, many of whom are law students, do not go to court to defend people. They are there to listen and document the legal problem and then prepare a short brief which is sent along to lawyers who are in a position to take on cases.
“The volunteer can and have spent up to as much as five hours talking to people with legal problems. They focus on identifying the problems and then do what they can to pair them up with a lawyer
Don reports that NCLI has gotten as many as 100 calls some days.
The Law Society does have a program that gives a 30 minute conversation with a lawyer at no cost to the caller. Few senior lawyers take on this type of Law Society volunteer work.
Ontario has a Legal Aid service that involves a means test that many people don’t qualify for – they aren’t poor enough. They have jobs but they don’t know where to turn to for the kind of help they need.
At the same time there are hundreds of lawyers who have been called to the bar but don’t have much in the way of experience – they know the law, they can write applications but they don’t have clients.
Don decided there was an opportunity to help people and reached out to various colleagues to create an online platform that could do just that.
“People need help with contracts that are not working out, lease agreements that have to be renewed or employment matters – there are legal problems everywhere.
Don saw a need during the Covid19 crisis and then realized that the need was a lot bigger. He wants to grow the organization and once it is proven begin looking for funding to make it part of the legal infrastructure.
 Some of the members of the National Canadian Lawyers Initiative. “This is why our team of volunteers have started this not-for-profit, to help the people in our communities. Our mission is simple: To launch a web-based platform that will match law students and newly-called lawyers to seasoned legal professionals who together will provide the much-needed legal advice in their communities, quickly, efficiently and most importantly free of charge.”
There is currently as lot of federal funding in place; some of which Don thinks might be available to fund NCLI adding “we might be able to help people determine if they are eligible for financial support.
Alex Don started out seeing the NCLI initiative as a temporary 12-month program that could help people in all areas of law, with the exception of criminal law.
NCLI is an attempt to pair law students or men and women recently called to the bar, with mentors who can guide them. “A lot of law students lost their summer placements,” said Mark Mejia Kuznetsova, a vice president at NCLI.
“There are a lot of students with a lot of time on their hands and not much to do during the summer months … This way they will get some experience and give back to society.”
The NCLI operates on a first-come, first-served, triaged basis.
By Pepper Parr
June 22nd, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The city opened up and people did what they have been wanting to do for months – get out and relax and be themselves.
The restaurants weren’t able to invite people inside – but they were able to open up patios and invite people to newly created pop up patios that met some of the need.
Social distancing was respected in most places – a few exceptions – hopefully no infections were passed around.
We will know in about ten days if we were behaving well enough to allow a further opening up.
It was great weather and a number of additional locations will be opening for the National holiday.
 Relaxing and enjoying being out with friends.  He wants his Mother to know where he was.  It was all about a good smoke.  The restaurants wanted you to know that there patios were open.
 By Pepper Parr
June 22nd, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
 Halton Regional Chief of Police Stephen Tanner Halton Regional Police Chief Stephen Tanner is to be commended for his immediate and strong statement over some police behaviour that was captured on video by a citizen and shown on social media networks.
The video, show here, is disturbing
In his statement Chief Tanner said: “I can assure you that this matter will be dealt with appropriately and as swiftly as possible, and individual(s) disciplined accordingly.
“I am extremely concerned with what I have seen in this particular video, particularly the actions of all four officers who were present at the time of the incident.
Chief Tanner adds that a “criminal process is the presumption of innocence until there is a finding of guilt. This fact is the same for all citizens including members of a police service.”
Rightly so.
 The reputation of the police force is in play. Is it a collection of thugs or a barrel with some bad apples? Hopefully the police will announce that the three police officers who looked on and took no action are taken out of active police work and put behind desks where they can shuffle paper or assigned to police escort work transmitting people being held in custody and transported to court houses.
Chief Tanner’s strong statement will hopefully be followed by swift action.
The leadership of the Oakville detachment might be worth looking at more closely – good commanding officers know the men and women they lead.
The Police Services Act of Ontario is a complex document that allows for long delays if that is what is wanted while investigations take place. Covid19 precautions can also be brought into play if that is the wish of the police administration.
At play here is the reputation of the hundreds of police officers who serve the public daily; they deserve to be supported by a Chief of Police who is steadfast in how he carries out the mandate he swore to uphold when he was sworn in.
By Staff
June 22nd, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
It isn’t often that the community hears directly from the Chief of Police.
The follow was sent out to the media and the larger public on Sunday.
On June 20, 2020, a video was posted to social media showing an altercation between members of the Halton Regional Police Service and a male party. We believe the incident took place in Oakville in April 2020. Immediately upon learning of this incident, the officer who made direct physical contact with the individual was suspended from duty. That is a decision that I am responsible for as your Chief of Police.
 An excerpt from the video the Chief of Police is concerned about. Full video is shown below. I am extremely concerned with what I have seen in this particular video, particularly the actions of all four officers who were present at the time of the incident.
In accordance with the Police Services Act of Ontario, the only immediate option available to a Chief of Police is suspension from duty with pay. While police chiefs and Police Services Boards have long sought to have the option for suspension without pay, this has yet to become a reality in the new Police Services Act.
I fully understand the concerns voiced by our residents about this incident. And through emails, voicemails and social media comments since yesterday, I recognize that many have demanded the immediate firing of the individual involved.
The reality is that we must ensure that we conduct a full and fair investigation, as always, and pursue charges as appropriate.
In an incident such as this, there are two parallel processes.
First, there is the potential for a criminal investigation and criminal charges which would proceed through the normal court process. Built into the criminal process is the presumption of innocence until there is a finding of guilt. This fact is the same for all citizens including members of a police service.
 Halton Regional Police Services Chief Stephen Tanner. Secondly, there is the matter of police discipline which is a separate charge-like process which would proceed under the Police Services Act of Ontario. In this process, a separate investigation is conducted and an officer would be served with a notice of hearing, and their employment cannot be terminated until there is a finding of guilt and ruling of termination and/or the individual resigns from the service.
Unfortunately, both these processes take time depending on the circumstances; this understandably leads to frustration for many involved in the system and for those watching the process through the lens of the public. Nonetheless, they are the systems that we must function within.
The 1,000-plus members of our Service work day in and day out to foster and maintain a positive reputation with the members of the public that we serve. We know the video shows actions that erode your trust in us. As your Chief of Police, I can assure you that this matter will be dealt with appropriately and as swiftly as possible, and individual(s) disciplined accordingly.
The video that has the Police Chief concerned can be seen here
By Pepper Parr
June 20th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The official end of the 2019-20 school year has yet to be celebrated. It will end with a deeply felt sigh of relief by most parents and some trepidation as well when discussions arise over how school will operate in September.
 The only people in the schools are the caretakers – and they aren’t putting in shifts at this point. The Ontario government released its safety plan for the resumption of class for the 2020-21 school year on Friday, outlining scenarios for how students, teachers and staff can safely return to classrooms in September. The plan also provides choices to parents, enhanced online learning, and additional funding.
The decision to return to the normal school day routine will continue to be based on medical advice, boards and schools are being asked to plan for alternative scenarios that may need to be implemented in September depending on the province’s COVID-19 situation.
“Nothing is more important than protecting our kids in this province. Parents expect us to take every precaution to keep their children safe when they go back to school in September – and that’s exactly what we’re delivering today,” said Premier Ford. “This plan takes the best medical advice available from our public heath experts to ensure every school board and every school is ready to ensure students continue learning in the safest way possible.”
Ontario’s plan to safely reopen schools will provide options for parents – to send their children in-class or to enter online learning – with health, safety and well-being at its core. Boards will be asked to plan for the following three scenarios to be implemented in September, depending on the public health situation at the time:
1. Normal school day routine with enhanced public health protocols – Students going to school every day, in classes that reflect standard class size regulations.
2. Modified school day routine – Based on public health advice, an adapted delivery model has been designed to allow for physical distancing and cohorts of students. Under this model, school boards are asked to maintain a limit of 15 students in a typical classroom at one time and adopt timetabling that would allow for students to remain in contact only with their classmates and a single teacher for as much of the school day as possible. This model would require alternate day or alternate week delivery to a segment of the class at one time.
3. At home learning – Should the school closure be extended, or some parents choose not to send their children back to school, school boards need to be prepared to offer remote education. Remote education should be delivered online to the greatest extent possible, including the establishment of minimum expectations for students to have direct contact with their teachers at the same time on a regular basis, also known as synchronous learning. Synchronous learning can be used as part of whole class instruction, in smaller groups of students, and/or in a one-on-one context.
The government is instructing school boards to be prepared with a plan, should it be required, that includes an adapted delivery model, which could include alternate day or alternate week attendance, staggered bell times and recess, and different transportation arrangements, among a variety of other considerations to ensure the safety of students and staff.
Halton District School Board had a Task Team in place before the Provincial announcement.
The government’s safety plan for schools was created following extensive consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, health experts on the COVID-19 Command Table, medical experts at The Hospital for Sick Children, education sector partners, front line workers, parents and students. While this plan reflects the best medical and scientific advice and recommendations available, parents who do not feel comfortable having their children physically return to school will have a choice to pursue online remote learning.
 Minister of Education Stephen Lecce doing a fist bump with a student. “We are taking every precaution, investing more, and listening to the best medical advice in the country to keep students, staff, and families safe,” said Minister Lecce. “I want to assure parents safety is our guiding principle and the right supports are being put in place to ensure our students are set up for success. I am grateful to Ontario students, education staff, and communities for stepping up during this difficult period.”
“Having careful plans in place to reopen schools in September is of the utmost importance for the mental and developmental health of children and youth, as well as their academic success,” says Dr. Ronald Cohn, President and CEO of SickKids. “The risk posed by COVID-19 cannot be completely eliminated, however, there are significant steps that can be taken to mitigate risk and protect the health and well-being of students, staff and their families.”
Key elements of the safety plan include:
• guidance for developing health and safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment;
• expectations of an in-class school environment;
• professional development training for teachers on the new protocols and directions;
• supports for students with special education needs;
• enhanced mental health and well-being supports;
• proposals on how educators and students can move fluidly between in-class and remote learning;
• guidelines to help schools and boards in their communications with students and parents;
• guidelines for student transportation systems;
• expectations for the delivery of curriculum and assessment across subjects and grades;
• guidance for working with First Nations students, parents and communities;
• regional options for reopening based on the advice of local public health authorities; and
• a checklist to help boards in their reopening planning.
Moreover, the government announced $4 million in net new funding for cleaning, cleaning protocols, and financial support to hire additional custodial staff in September to ensure schools are safe.
 These are hallways that haven’t seen students for more than 100 days School boards have been asked to prepare their own safety plans for the upcoming school year and submit them to the ministry by August 4, 2020. The ministry will be providing all boards with an opportunity to share their draft plans and seek feedback from a formalized table of medical experts that the ministry will be convening.
School boards will also be required to communicate with parents and students prior to the start of the 2020-21 school year, outlining the safety plan, guidance on health and safety measures and protocols, and any other changes that will be implemented when schools open in September.
By Staff
June 20th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The Gazette web site, we call it our press room, is undergoing a security upgrade. The content has been hacked into several times and someone is playing with the comments section. Thus, unfortunately, the comments section will not be available until security is solid enough to prevent people from removing what you want to say.
The city came out of its ‘lockdown” yesterday; people walked the streets and had a beer or a glass of wine and met with neighbours and friends.
Some of the distancing rules didn’t stick as well as they perhaps should have.
Earlier in the week city council decided they would go all out to give the hospitality sector all the help they could.
The rules for pop up patios were relaxed; fees were waived and there was staff in place to process applications.
Citizens saw how city hall could move when it wanted to. There was no bureaucracy to trip over.
The pictures tell the story.
 The Queen’s Head was open for business and the suds flowed – masks for all the staff.  Joe Dogs made sure you understood the rules – happy hands during the Happy Hours.  Social distancing strictly observed.  Did they check her ID? She could walk home if it came to that. Ward 2 Councillor Lisa Kearns checking on the hospital sector on the first night of limited re-opening.  In the up close and personal services market – everyone wears masks. Getting appointment with a hair dresser is not as simple as a single phone call.  Not everyone bounced back right away. The Back Porch at Emma’s looks abandoned.
By Pepper Parr
Jan 20th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Wearing a mask we are told is now what we should be doing to prevent the Covid virus from being transmitted from person to person.
Many of the handmade masks are quite creative and many retail locations now have a supply.
 Kim Reid and Lisa Faria use sign language to communicate and rely on being able to read the faces of people they are communicating with. The masks allow their mouths to be seen. Both are at the Bob Rumball Canadian Centre of Excellence for the Deaf
What about segments of the population – particularly the deaf who depend on the facial expression of the person they are “talking” to?
 The masks are made of 100% cotton and come in bright patterns. A former Milton Town Council member, Jan Mowbray, who led the making of 3,000 masks for Burlington residents serves as a Board member of the Bob Rumball Canadian Centre of Excellence for the Deaf.
She was acutely aware of the problems deaf people have and designed and then made 400 masks for Rumble residents.
 Jan Mowbray at her sewing machine stitching the ties for the masks Mowbray worked out a design, then created a template from which she cut the fabric and then glued in the piece of plastic that covers the mouth.
“It was long painstaking work” said Mowbray, who went through several designs to come up with what she was finally satisfied with.
Kim Reid and Lisa Faria are delighted with the masks they now have.
Note: Anyone wishing to purchase masks made for those who are hard of hearing and need to be able to read the lips of those they are communicating with please be in touch with: seamstress@hwkp.com
By Staff
June 19th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
In a Media release put out by the Halton Regional Police service earlier today the death of a 60 year old woman was reported to have taken place at Harvester Road and Appleby Line.
There was no mention of who the person was other than to say that next of kin had been notified.
 Regan Russell at the intersection of Harvester Road and Appleby Line yards away from where she was killed by a truck transporting pigs. Regan Russell, who was identified as the victim in a release by Animal Justice, was struck by a transport truck that was hauling pigs through the gates of Fearmans Pork meat processing facility at Appleby Line and Harvester Road at around 10:20 a.m. on Friday, June 19.
The truck with its cargo of pigs remained at the scene for several hours as police blocked off the area and began their investigation.
A Burlington resident sitting across the street from the plant in the Wendy’s parking lot when the incident happened, described what he saw:
“The truck was there for about four or five minutes. The protesters were there. Then they walked away from the truck when they were done,” said the observer.
“Then I saw a woman … I assumed the truck driver thought he was clear to go and didn’t see that last protester.”
Around 10 protesters who had been engaged in a regularly scheduled animal rights vigil at the plant remained on the scene following the crash.
Anita Krajnc, co-founder of the group Toronto Pig Save, talked about the victim, a Hamilton resident in her 60s.
While Krajnc was not on the scene when the collision happened, she noted Regan Russell and the other activists were bringing the trucks to a stop by standing in front of the gate to the plant and then giving water to the pigs in the truck, recording video and attempting to raise awareness of the pigs’ plight.
Animal Justice said in its media release that Regan Russell was run over by a transport truck as she attended a peaceful vigil outside of the facility.
 Firefighters and slaughterhouse staff attempt to corral pigs trapped in a transport truck that flipped on its side with a load of pigs. “Ten thousand pigs are trucked into and slaughtered at the Fearmans Pork slaughterhouse every day. Advocates with the Animal Save Movement hold regular vigils outside of the slaughterhouse to document the suffering of these animals in transport. On a scorching hot day like today, many pigs are likely to arrive at the facility already dead from heat exposure.
“The tragic death comes two days after the controversial agricultural gag (“ag gag”) law, Bill 156, was passed in Ontario. Bill 156 is designed to cover up animal cruelty on farms and during transport. Among other troubling provisions aimed at preventing whistle blowers and animal advocates from exposing the abuse of farmed animals, the new law aims to restrict the peaceful protest rights of those who hold vigils at slaughterhouses across the province.
 Protesters photograph the pigs in a transport truck – part of their documenting what they see as cruel. “It does so by making it an offence to “interact” with farmed animals in a transport truck—a prohibition widely denounced by animal advocates and constitutional law experts as an unconstitutional restriction of rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly guaranteed in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.”
Today’s vigil was one of the last opportunities for a vigil before the bill becomes law.
 Protesters giving pigs on the way into the slaughterhouse water. Movement founder Anita Krajnc, was arrested and charged with criminal mischief for giving water to pigs in a transport truck outside of the Fearmans slaughterhouse. Ms. Krajnc was acquitted in 2017 after a much-publicized trial. Vigils at Fearmans Pork adhere to strict safety protocols.
“Regan Russell was a kind, elegant, strong, and courageous person,” said Anita Krajnc, founder of the Animal Save Movement. “She was a mentor to others, and she always did activism with kindness in her heart.”
“She had been an animal advocate since 1979, attended vigils weekly for years, and cared deeply about justice for animals, racial justice, and protecting the vulnerable.”
Related news story:
Police report on the death of a 60 year old female.
By Staff
June 19th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The people of Aldershot do appreciate the transit service they get.
So much so that they have decided to use from June 22nd to June 29th to show appreciation to all Burlington Transit Employees and recognize that their efforts have not gone un-noticed, especially the Bus Drivers.
Christina Tellier is the Aldershot Senior Bus Rider who initiated the idea.
 Bus riders want to thank the men and woman who drive these buses. Ridership might be low making the trips exceedingly lonely and having to incorporate all the additional COVID restrictions, they kept the buses running for people who had to get to work, to medical appointments or for grocery shopping Frequently the Drivers was the only person on the bus.
Expect to see Thank you Bus Drivers’ signs on lawns along bus routes or in windows.
Encourage children & families to make signs and holler & wave as busses go by on routes.
Encourage families to go to bus stops and show appreciation however they wish.
Bus riders to show personal appreciation any way they can.
When walking past a bus……. Holler & clap and let driver know it is for him.
When driving past a bus, honk with a thumbs up sign
Neighbours cheering, clapping etc. at different bus stops along & across from each other (social distancing)
Coffee Shops and Restaurants with a bus stop close could take out coffee to give to drivers or food at breakfast, lunch and supper times.
The ideas are endless, all with the same purpose…….. Thank You Burlington Transit
 By Staff
June 19th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Shortly after 10:20 am this morning, a 60 year old woman was struck by a transport truck at Harvester Rd. and Appleby Line in Burlington.
Halton Regional Police Service received a call regarding the event – the woman was pronounced deceased at the scene
Next of kin were notified.
The Collision Reconstruction Unit remains on scene to conduct an investigation. Harvester Rd. between Appleby Line and South Service Rd. will be closed for several hours, and we are asking motorists to avoid the area and take an alternate route.
Anyone who witnessed this incident, or anyone with dash cam footage from the area at the time of the collision is asked to call our Collision Reconstruction Unit at 905-825-4747 ext. 5065.
Members of our Victim Services Unit were also deployed to the scene to provide support and assistance to all involved. If you have been impacted and need to reach us, please call 905-825-4747 ext. 5239 or email us at victimservices@haltonpolice.ca.
We extend our sincere condolences to the friends and family of the deceased.
By Staff
June 19th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The results of an investigation of a stolen motorcycle in May, the Halton Regional Police Service were able to execute warrants that resulted in the arrest of three.
 Investigation by the Burlington Street Crime Unit has led to charges against the following individuals;
Reuben DEEMER (32 years old from Hamilton)
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime – Trafficking (4 counts)
• Tampering With Vehicle Identification Number
• Possession of a Controlled Substance – Methamphetamine
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime
• Weapons Dangerous
• Possess Prohibited Weapon
• Possession Contrary to Order – Prohibited Weapon
Zachary MCMASTER (25 years old from Brampton)
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime – Trafficking (4 counts)
• Tampering With Vehicle Identification Number
• Possession of a Controlled Substance – Methamphetamine
• Obstruct Police
• Breach Release Order
• Breach Probation
Julia LOVASI (31 years old from Hamilton)
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime – Trafficking (4 counts)
• Tampering With Vehicle Identification Number
• Possession of a Controlled Substance – Methamphetamine
• Weapons Dangerous
On June 19th 2020, Investigators with the assistance of the Tactical Rescue Unit executed three search warrants at residences in the City of Burlington and Waterdown. As a result; the following items were seized:
• 4 confirmed stolen motorcycles
• 3 other motorcycles believed to be stolen and still under investigation
• 1 stolen licence plate
• 1 pair of brass knuckles
• 1 can of bear spray
• 1 extendable baton
• A small quantity of methamphetamine and cocaine
Both Deemer and McMaster were held pending a court appearance in Milton.
Lovasi has been released from custody pending a court appearance in Milton
Anyone with information in regards to this investigation is asked to contact Detective Scott Heyerman of the 3 District Street Crime Unit at 905-825-4747 ext. 2342.
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.
Please be reminded that all persons charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
By Staff
June 19th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The City of Burlington announced its first rainbow crosswalk with Mayor Marianne Meed Ward, City Councillors and a few representatives from the LGBTQ2IS+ community.
To keep within the COVID-19 Provincial State of Emergency, the announcement was made virtually using Facebook Live from the new crosswalk location on Lakeshore Road at the base of Burlington Avenue. The crosswalk is in recognition of Pride and inclusivity.
On Sept. 23, 2019 Council approved a motion to bring a rainbow crosswalk to the city. Staff received requests for crosswalks at about 15 different city intersections. Some popular locations such as Lakeshore and Maple and Lakeshore and Nelson were not viable locations for the rainbow crosswalk because of the already existing coloured, patterned concrete.
 Two stripes added to the traditional six; Brown for the Latino people and Black for the Black Community. Transportation staff formed a Rainbow Crosswalk Project Team made up of representatives of the LGBTQ2IS+ community:
• Burlington Inclusivity Advisory Committee & HRPS
• St. Christopher’s Anglican Church
• Halton District School Board
• Positive Space Network
• Pflag Canada – Halton
The project team was provided a list of potential locations and criteria to consider when selecting their choices on behalf of their organization:
• Exposure -number of cars and/or pedestrians who could potentially see this location
• Future construction work
• Existing conditions, such as type of crosswalk, pavement treatment and how it ties into preferred design
• Greater community support around location
Using these criteria, each team member was asked to review the information and provide their top three locations. Once their selections were submitted, Transportation Services staff assigned points to each ranking to identify the preferred overall location at the base of Burlington Avenue on Lakeshore Road, leading into Spencer Smith Park.
The crosswalk is an important feature and a key landmark geographically and socially for the city.
 Mayor Marianne Meed Ward said: “Our Rainbow Crosswalk is one visible way to stand with our LGBTQ2IS+ community here and across our nation and world. It’s one way to send a strong message of support and welcome that Burlington is everyone’s city. We know that our residents have stories of experiencing discrimination and intolerance because of who they love, and this must stop. We have plans for more crosswalks around the city, and many requests from our young people to put these near schools to clearly show our support and welcome for all members of our LGBTQ2IS+ especially our youth.”
 Ward 2 Councillor Lisa Kearns Ward 2 Councillor Lisa Kearns chimed in with: “I am thrilled to see Burlington showing support for Pride and the LGTBQ2IS+ community through the installation of this rainbow painted crosswalk. It is an important public statement of welcome and inclusion that will be available year-round in our City.”
HDSB Director of Education, Stuart Miller added: “The Halton District School Board applauds the City of Burlington on the installation of the Rainbow Crosswalk. This show of support for the 2SLGBTQI+ community demonstrates a commitment our school board shares with the City to promote inclusion and acceptance of all students, families and staff. Through our actions in our schools and beyond, we will continue to advance a culture of respect, safety, acceptance and inclusion for all.”
This symbol is an important one and everyone will jump on the bandwagon rolling through the city. Those who are opposed will not say a word. Our issue is with the way the city pussy-footed around this. They used the words multi-coloured instead of rainbow in an earlier public announcement.
Then they added a brown stripe and a black stripe to the design to represent the discrimination the Latino and Black members of society. What will be used for the Aboriginal and Metis communities?
The first Rainbow crosswalk should have been in front of city hall or better yet at the foot of Brant Street with one on the east and another on the west side of Brant.
The stunner for a number of people might be the $10,000 it cost to paint the stripes.
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