 By Pepper Parr
May 16th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Part 4 of a series
It is called a Form 4, the document every candidate who ran in a municipal election must file with the City Clerk.
 If the candidate fails to file the document they will not be permitted to run in the next municipal election. That is a pretty big stick in the hands of a City Clerk.
Candidates are required to state how much of their own money they spent to get elected. How much they received in the way of donations and what they spent the money on.
Candidates are required to open a bank account that accepts deposits and is used to pay campaign expenses. The candidate is expected to have an auditor review the statement before it is submitted.
On the lower left hand corner of a Form 4 the signature of the candidate appears and on the lower right hand corner is the signature of the City Clerk.
There is one line on a Form 4 that requires the candidate to detail how much they spent on bank charges. Bank charges – why is this amount important?
It wasn’t until we put together a list on how much each candidate spent on bank charges.
Stolte: $78.33
Bentivegna: $0
Sharman: $42.77
Meed Ward $122.77
Kearns: $14.27
Nisan: $51.57
Galbraith: $552.05
 Two numbers stood out. There were no bank charges shown for Angelo Bentivegna which suggests he may not have opened a bank account for his election campaign. Bentivegna once told the Gazette that his wife handles all the household finances. Would a wife’s purse qualify as a bank? In some households that might be the case – but we jest. This is serious business
Relative to the others Galbraith incurred very high bank charges compared to the other candidates; five times as high as Mayor Marianne Meed Ward
 Money influences campaigns. People donate to an election campaign because they want to influence the outcome. A campaign funded by hundreds of small donations is a sign of a healthy community. Campaigns with a small number of large donations from a specific sector is not a healthy sign. We can only speculate on the why such a big difference. Did Galbraith use one of his private corporate bank accounts?
If that was the case did his auditor not bring this to his attention?
Lastly – did the City Clerk note the significant differences and ask the candidate to explain?
If the Clerk has the authority to prevent a candidate from running for office in a following election surely the Clerk would at least review the documents.
The Municipal Act is pretty clear.
Duties of candidates
88.22 (1) A candidate shall ensure that,
(a) no contributions of money are accepted or expenses are incurred unless one or more campaign accounts are first opened at a financial institution exclusively for the purposes of the election campaign;
(b) all contributions of money are deposited into the campaign accounts;
(c) all funds in the campaign accounts are used exclusively for the purposes of the election campaign;
(d) all payments for expenses are made from the campaign accounts
We will put the question to the City Clerk – the one serving the City of Burlington tends not to respond to questions from the Gazette.
 By Staff
May 16th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington Public Library has been recognized as an outstanding non-profit with two recent accolades.
First, the Library was named as a finalist for the Burlington Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards in the not-for-profit category. These awards are a celebration of Burlington businesses and what they have achieved through leadership, community contributions, and innovation.
 Awards like this just don’t happen. Leadership always creates a path to better performance and better service. Ms Barrie joined the library in June of 2018. It is interesting to look back and note the changes she has made and the difference the public now sees, feels and appreciates in the way the library operates. “We are so honoured to be recognized by the Chamber as an outstanding not-for-profit,” says BPL CEO, Lita Barrie. “Burlington has an exceptional business community, and we are proud to be named among such incredible local businesses.”
Burlington Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Award winners will be announced at an awards gala on May 23rd.
The Library was also recently named one of Canada’s ‘Best Workplaces for Giving Back,’ by Great Place to Work, a global leader in workplace culture assessments. This designation is awarded to businesses that are certified by Great Place to Work and achieve a minimum 90 per cent employee sentiment score regarding the workplace’s contribution to the community.
“It is really meaningful to be included on this list among businesses like FedEx, Pinterest, and LinkedIn,” says Kourtney Shelton, Director of People, Branches, & Organizational Development at BPL. “We see the impact our staff have on the community every day and we are honoured to be recognized for that at a national level.”
 Think about the number of young minds that are changed for the better, forever because we have libraries with book filled shelves.  Burlington Public Library employs over 150 people in roles ranging from maintenance to marketing. As a public service, the library provides access to a collection of more than 240,000 physical items, offers free programs for all ages, and connects people in need with vital community resources. As a non-profit and charitable organization, BPL gratefully accepts monetary donations to support its collection.
By Staff
May 16th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Warm weather and a long weekend will draw hundreds to the popular Beachway Park.
 The location draws hundreds of people. This means visitors to the Beachway will need to pay for parking.
Fees will be charged from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends and holidays beginning this Saturday until the last weekend in September: Sunday, Sept. 24, 2023.
 Parking fees can be paid using the HONK mobile app. Visitors do not have to download the app but can scan the QR code on parking lot signage to pay for parking.
The hourly rate is $2.50 or a daily flat rate of $20. There is a transaction fee of $0.35 for each payment.
Dashboard tickets are not needed as every payment is linked to a license plate number.
Halton residents are given 10 free days of parking per year at Beachway Park. It is recommended that residents wait to fill out the parking exemption form once they’ve arrived at the beach and parked in a legal parking spot.
The exemption doesn’t guarantee a spot, but it does give residents free parking for the day.
Parking is free in Downtown Burlington on weekends and holidays. Beachway visitors are encouraged to extend their walk or use the drop-off zone, park for free in the downtown and meet their household members at the beach. For parking downtown, visit burlington.ca/downtownparking.
Visitors are also encouraged to consider taking Burlington Transit, cycling, walking or rolling to the beach and leaving their cars at home.
Illegally parked vehicles will be issued tickets and/or towed. Drivers are reminded not to park illegally, especially on Lakeshore Road shoulders and the grass boulevard over the pipeline as they will be towed.
Director of Transportation Services, Craig Kummer said: “We know Beachway Park is a popular summer destination with limited parking spaces. Charging for parking has improved parking and traffic flow since it was introduced in 2021. If you are planning to visit the Beachway, plan ahead and consider parking in another location if the lots are full. Please make sure you are parked in a legal parking spot. City bylaw officers must ticket and tow those parked illegally to help manage parking and traffic flow and most importantly, keep everyone safe.”
The city is looking into creating an overflow lot in the area. It could accommodate approximately 30 more parking spots in an unsurfaced lot. Visitors using this overflow lot will also need to pay for parking and the fees to park in this lot will be the same as the Beachway lots. The City is working towards opening this overflow lot in July.”
 By Pepper Parr
May 16th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
 Cartoon Bob He is known is as Cartoon Bob – he earns his living is as an artist doing work for both corporate clients and events.
He looks at a person sitting in front of him – asks a couple of questions and draws quickly with pen or pencil on paper.
The high tech world got to him and he does much of his work on a tablet.
It was evident at an early age that Cartoon Bob would earn his moniker. As a child of the 60’s. Saturday morning cartoons provided a wealth of influence, as he would draw what he saw on TV!
After seeing well-known celebrities in some of the episodes as well as political cartoons in newspaper editorials, he turned his attention to the art of Caricature. Friends, family members, and anyone within eyeshot ware fair game!
After decades of honing his craft, Cartoon Bob has become the resident Caricaturist for Google, Dofasco, Microsoft, and many other corporate clients, He has illustrated many published books and has created countless logos and cartoon projects.
He will be the in house editorial cartoonist for the Gazette and will focus on people who are public and private. Cartoonists have a level of editorial freedom that is equalled only by opinion writers.
Set out below is a sample of his work.
Welcome aboard Cartoon Bob.
 By Staff
May 15th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Freeman Station is having an Open House this coming Saturday.
 The folks that saved the pile of lumber that was the Freeman Station – the building that was moved and is now a premier destination for many visitors to the city, will hold an Open House on the 20th. Question we have is: who laid that track ? May 20 2023
10am – 3pm
FREE
Fun for all ages.
Rain or Shine.
1285 Fairview Street
Burlington Ontario
Wheelchair accessible to the main floor
Free parking on the grounds
Use driveway at Central Fire Hall.
Ring the locomotive bell
Get weighed on freight scales
Throw the track switch
Watch model trains in the basement
See the one (and only) TH&B#1 inspection car that ran on rails from the 50s to the 70s through the Hamilton area; that’s the yellow car in photo.
 www.freemanstation.ca
Next open house is Saturday June 17
By Staff
May 15th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Average asking rents in Canada rose 20 per cent in April for all property types to $2,002 over the pandemic low in April 2021 of $1,662, according to the Rentals.ca and Urbanation latest National Rent Report.*
That’s an average increase of $340 per month.
Burlington finished seventh for average monthly rent in April for a one-bedroom at $2,171 and 10th for average monthly rent for a two-bedroom at $2,533.
Year over year, average monthly rent in April for a one-bedroom in Burlington was up 8.9 per cent and up 12.6 per cent for a two-bedroom.
Brampton finished ninth for average monthly rent in April for a one-bedroom at $2,075 and 13th for average monthly rent for a two-bedroom at $2,442.
Year over year, average monthly rent in April for a one-bedroom in Brampton was up 28.1 per cent and up 26.8 per cent for a two-bedroom.
Oshawa finished 19th for average monthly rent in April for a one-bedroom at $1,808 and 21st for average monthly rent for a two-bedroom at $2,110.
Year over year, average monthly rent in April for a one-bedroom in Oshawa was up 9.8 per cent and up 12.3 per cent for a two-bedroom.
Oakville was not included on the list, but average monthly rent in April for a one-bedroom home was $2,588, and average monthly rent for a two-bedroom was $3,719.
Markham was also not on the list, but average monthly rent in the city in April for a one-bedroom was $2,192, and average monthly rent for a two-bedroom was $2,398.
Richmond Hill was also not included among the 35, but average monthly rent in the city in April for a one-bedroom home was $2,059, and average monthly rent for a two-bedroom was $2,403.
 Will the construction of new housing units bring down rent rates? The three medium-sized GTA markets at the top of the list for rising rents had average rents exceeding 30 per cent year over year – Scarborough at 31.9 percent, Brampton at 31.2 per cent and Markham at 30.3 per cent. All three have been affected by high levels of immigration.
Oakville was the most expensive medium-sized market in Canada in April for condo rentals and apartments with average monthly rents at $3,413.
Average monthly rents increased the most in Ontario at 29 per cent for condominium rentals and apartments compared to the pandemic low in April 2021.
Provincially, average rent in Ontario increased the highest by 16.7 per cent in April to $2,421 for purpose-built and condominium apartments.
Shaun Hildebrand, president of Urbanation said: ““Rents continued to face upward pressure across Canada during April, with the strongest growth felt in markets that see the highest levels of immigration. Tenants that signed leases during the pandemic may be facing rent increases of 20 per cent or more if they decide to move, causing reduced turnover that is exacerbating the low supply situation.”
 By Staff
May 15th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington has paid parking and reservation programs in three popular City parks to help with parking demand and use:
Beachway Park
LaSalle Park Boat Launch
Lowville Park
The city sets out the parking rules. Parking space has become limited due to the number of people who want to spend time in a park.
Beachway Park
 During the summer, if you’d like to park at Beachway Park you must pay for parking on weekends from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Please watch our news and notices for information on when weekend payment is needed. The rate is $2.50 per hour or a flat daily rate of $20.
How to pay
Make sure you park in a designated parking spot and obey all parking rules and bylaws. Vehicles in violation will be ticketed or towed at the owner’s expense.
To pay, scan the QR code at a park payment sign with your smartphone or download the HONK mobile app. You can then choose the length of your stay and securely pay or top up your parking right from your phone. You can also use the HONK contactless payment station, located along the Beachway multi-use trail. If you download the app, you can search for a parking spot before you arrive.
There is a $0.35 transaction fee for each payment. Dashboard tickets are not needed, as each payment is linked to your licence plate number.
Beachway Park parking exemptions
If you are a Halton Region resident, you are allowed up to 10 free days of parking in the Beachway parking lots from May to September each year. Fill out our online Parking Exemption Form once you get to the beach and have a legal parking spot. This exemption waives the parking fee for the day but does not guarantee you a spot. If you do not have access to the online form once you arrive, you can find a City parking ambassador, wearing a bright yellow safety vest. They can help you fill out the form on a tablet. Once you have used your 10 days of parking exemptions, you must pay for parking.
Complete our Parking Exemption Form
If the lots are full
If the lots are full, please look for other parking. Parking is free in downtown Burlington on weekends and holidays. You can also use the drop-off zone, park elsewhere and meet your group at the beach. Consider walking, cycling or taking Burlington Transit.
LaSalle Park Boat Launch
If you’d like to park your boat trailer at the LaSalle Park Boat Launch in the LaSalle Park Community Marina or upper parking lot, you must pay a trailer parking fee. Fees are required from dawn to dusk seven days a week including holidays. The daily flat rate is $20.
How to pay
To pay, scan the QR code at a park payment sign with your smartphone or download the HONK mobile app. You can then securely pay directly from your phone. With the app, you can search for a parking spot before you arrive.
There is a $0.35 transaction fee for each payment. Dashboard tickets are not needed, as each payment is linked to your trailer licence plate number.
Lowville Park
During the summer and early fall, Lowville Park users looking to park their vehicle at specific times must make a free three-hour online reservation before to visiting Lowville Park. You will receive an access code so you can enter the park at the automatic entrance gates. Please watch our news and notices for information on when reservations are needed.
If you are walking or cycling to the park, you do not need a reservation.
 Family arrives for a day at Lowville Park. There are now gates and reservations are required for weekends and holidays. How to make a reservation
You can make an online reservation using Park Pass. You may book a free three-hour reservation, once per day, on:
Weekdays between 4 and 8 p.m.
Weekends between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
You may come and go during your scheduled three-hour timeslot. Parking outside of these times will be limited to the park operating hours and does not need a reservation. Please make sure you park in a designated parking spot, or your vehicle will be ticketed and towed at the owner’s expense. If you exceed your three-hour timeslot, you will be ticketed.
 Fishing is pretty good – at least this group thinks so. Reservations are not required at this time. If you slowly approach the gate and wait at the indicated spot, the entry arms will lift automatically.
Book a reservation
Changes and cancellations
We understand unexpected things can pop up. We have a late grace period, so it is okay if you are a few minutes late.
You can make changes or cancellations up to 48 hours before your arrival time. You can change your date, reservation name, licence plate and number of people.
We reserve the right to cancel park visits for COVID-19 orders, safety and/or adverse trail conditions. We may close trail networks if conditions are too wet and damage is unavoidable. We will notify you by email if your visit is cancelled.
 By Pepper Parr
May 15th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Part 3 of a series on election financing
At the time of publication, the Gazette had received no response to the two previous articles despite repeated requests to respond.
In Parts 1 and 2, we reported on the financial statements of Ward 1 Councillor Kelvin Galbraith, and pointed out the many developer donations he received, as well as the fact that he received the highest dollar amount of donations of any other Burlington Council member, including the Mayor.
 Kelvin Galbraith. Councillor Ward 1 In this third part, we look further at some of those donors again, showing those who gave Galbraith the maximum donation ($1200) or $1000, and who also have current development projects with the City of Burlington, in his Ward 1. The data on these projects was taken directly from the City of Burlington website where they list “Current Development Projects” by ward, along with details of the applications and their current status.
The lists of such projects in all wards reveals that the number and scale of projects in Ward 1 is extremely large. The list is five pages long; covering 23 projects. These are all big projects, often covering multiple addresses for one development and with multiple buildings. On its face, it would seem that Ward 1 is the leader of major development in the City.
Ward 2 also has 23 developments which, since it includes the downtown and waterfront, is to be expected. Significantly, the Ward 2 Councillor, Lisa Kearns, did not receive developer donations.
The following developers, who donated to Galbraith, have current development projects in his ward:
 • Molinaro: 1134-1167 Plains Road East, Status: Under Review; 1049 residential units, 4 towers, 22-35 storeys, Vincent Molinaro donated $1000 to Galbraith
 • National Homes: 484-490 Plains Road East, Status: Approved; two 8-storey condos with 9th floor rooftop amenity, 276 units, 110 stacked townhouse units.
Travis Nolan, VP of National Homes donated $1200 to Galbraith; two National Homes Executive Assistants, Jessica Dipronio and Sara Defina each donated $1200 on the same day as Nolan.
 • National Homes: 2100 Brant. Status: Approved and under construction. A mix of townhouse blocks, with 4 semi-detached bungalofts proposed in the revised plan of 210 units. City website does not reflect current status.
 • Infinity: 1029 and 1033 Waterdown Unit, Status: Appealed. 29 storey mixed use building, 295 residential units, 4-storey podium, ground floor retail, 2 levels underground parking, 3.5 levels above-grade parking. Arun Anand, Manager of Infinity’s Construction Management Plan, donated $1200 to Galbraith.
 • Infinity: 40-70 Plains Road East, Status: Appealed. 12 storey apartment, 389 units.
• Vrancor Group: At the intersection of 53-71 Plains Rd. East and 1025 Cooke Blvd, Status: Approved; 2 residential towers, 18 and 9 storeys, commercial units on main floor. Gunther Bluesz, Lead Designer & Project Manager at Vrancor Group, donated $1200 to Galbraith.
It is also worth noting that these and other of Galbraith’s developer donors have projects in other wards as well and Galbraith votes on these too. If a Councillor has a development-friendly approach, this tendency has application across the City.
It is difficult to believe that Galbraith’s multiple properties which he owns in the Plains Road area would not benefit from, or are at the very least be impacted by, the influx of thousands and thousands of units being built in the vicinity – regardless of distance from the MTSA. There are so many addresses being developed in Ward 1 covering so much real estate acreage that it beggars belief that Galbraith’s properties are not impacted. This fact is fundamental to the continuing efforts by citizens to review Galbraith’s perceived conflict of interest.
For comparison, the following are the number of current development projects in all Burlington wards. Note that in some they include very small purpose-built structures like a 3-storey veterinarian office. What is most noticeable about Ward 1 is they are almost all very large developments. We believe that it actually surpasses Ward 2, which most would believe is the site of the biggest and most developments.
Ward 1 – 23 developments
Ward 2 – 23 developments
Ward 3 – 3 developments
Ward 4 – 7 developments
Ward 5 – 12 developments
Ward 6 – 12 developments
The following are the addresses of the Ward 1 development projects. The list includes just those on either Plains Road or on streets off Plains Road.
1200 King Road, 1120 Cooke Blvd, 1134 – 1167 Plains Road E., 141, 147 & 153 Plains Road W., 1062 – 1074 Cooke Blvd., 284 – 292 Plains Road E., 484 – 490 Plains Road E., 35 Plains Road E., 1085 Clearview Ave., 92 Plains Road E., 40 – 70 Plains Road E., 1450 King Road, 53 – 71 Plains Road E., 1025 Cooke Blvd., 539 King Forest Court (off King Road), 1029 – 1033 Waterdown Road, 610, 611 Surrey Lane, 875 King Road, 615 and 619 Marley Road, 847, 471, 875, 894, 917 Warwick, 1010 Downsview Drive, 355 Plains Road E.
.
 Aldershot: a place to stand, a place to grow as it were. So, what is the importance of all this? First, it suggests that major property development has found a welcome home in Burlington’s Ward 1; a place to stand, a place to grow as it were.
Secondly, the number and density of these developments has serious implications for Councillor Galbraith’s perceived conflict of interest – a matter that we will discuss in the future.
 Kelvin Galbraith serving as Chair of a Standing Committee Finally, it makes Galbraith a very influential fellow for this industry.
While he is one of seven council votes – Burlington Council is one of the smallest in the province, the impact of each member is disproportionately and, we believe, inappropriately high.
The Mayor has recently said that she is open to expanding the size and composition of Council.
Now is the time to begin that conversation.
Part 1 of the series – When we looked at the campaign expenditures of Ward 1 Councillor Kelvin Galbraith things changed.
Part 2 of the series Why did they donate this much money to a Burlington councillor in an election most voters ignored ?
 By Pepper Parr
May 14th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington struggles with how to save some of the heritage properties in the city. It seems prepared to settle for some of the facade of homes built in the mid 1800’s hoping that keeping some of the streetscape will let people know what parts of Burlington looked like.
Two in particular have taken up a lot of time recently. The Ghent property at Brant and Prospect – where the developer is refusing to work with the city to find a solution to save at least some of the building and replace it with a development that doesn’t offer much.
The other is a house on Walker’s Line that is in poor condition due to neglect. The location on Walkers Line just north of New Street is a part of the city that has a number of developments in the Planning Department pipeline.
David Barker, owner of a Heritage property on Lakeshore Road and a former member of the Heritage Advisory, delegated to the group where he had the following to say:
 David Barker Good evening. Thank you Chair and members of the committee for allowing me to speak this evening.
As a very proud owner of a designated heritage property I would like to tonight pass on to you some thoughts and observations I have that you can consider at a later time in regards to
 Neglect over a couple of decades have made bringing this house up to an acceptable standard would be very expensive – there is no on even interested in saving the property. Its development value is significant and the area is undergoing a number of changes. (1) A rated registry properties to be prioritized for designation consideration;
(2) designated locations where developers are already seeking to demolish (such as those on Brant Street and Walkers Line); and
(3) approaching owners of properties which are to be considered for designation.
At its last meeting in April, this committee determined that it would prioritize residential properties for consideration for designation ahead of properties such as churches, cemeteries and schools. I would suggest that the committee might wish to reevaluate this position bearing in mind the legislation tabled in the Ontario Legislature as Bill 98 The Better Schools and Student Outcomes Act.
The bill contains a feature that provides the Minister with the authority to make regulations prescribing the circumstances under which a sale or disposition of a school site or property may occur, including to whom the school site or property must be offered;”
The minister has said:-
“If a different board needs the property it would be sold to them, but if it is not needed in the education sector, the property would be considered for other provincial needs such as affordable housing or long-term care”.
With this in mind, I would respectfully suggest the committee reappraise its decision to exclude school properties from its designation consideration. Burlington Central and Lakeshore Public are both A rated properties on the heritage registry. The lands of both those schools are immensely valuable and would be a target for developers to build either homes or long-term care, which would require the demolition of the structures. We already know the direction the Ford government is going and does not hold heritage in the same high regard as it does developers. You will recall I’m sure that in the recent past both these schools have been considered for closure by HDSB. I suggest therefore the committee seek to have these school properties designated.
 The oldest heritage structure on Brant at Prospect was once part of a 50 + acre farm. I turn now to the topic of designated properties that sit on sites that an owner wishes to develop, such as 795 Brant St and 496 Walkers Line. Council will only consider options put to it by staff. The staff report on 795 Brant Street gave Council the stark options to either grant or not grant the demolition permit application.
A third option exists which rarely seems to get discussed. That option is to relocate the heritage building. During my time as a member of this committee the relocation option was put forward as something staff and the applicant might consider in relation to a property on Plains Road.
Regrettably in that instance the Committee Chair determined not to bring the option to staff’s attention. Relocation has occurred a few times and is a viable solution to preserve a heritage property. Some will say taking the property from its historic geographic location detracts from its heritage value. That might be so. But demolition detracts considerably more.
There exists a vacant land property for sale on Burlington Avenue, listed at about $800,000. Maybe the developer might be persuaded to buy the vacant land, cover the cost to move and install the structure there. In doing so the developer 50 + likely would be able to sell that property at a profit. It would allow the developer to develop the site as it would like. The City might show it’s appreciation by granting the developer some considerations in its zoning application. It’s a win for all parties. One can be pretty sure that should the matter get adjudicated by the OLT, the City and Heritage will lose. Has this option been discussed with these developers? I know the answer to that question is “no”. My question is “why not?”.
Lastly I turn to the Committee’s initiative to seek designation of certain A rated registry properties. Designation generally has a negative connotation with those unfamiliar with its ins and outs. As an owner of a designated heritage property for 30 years I can honestly say I have yet to find any negative aspects. I would like to suggest the committee engage owners of designated properties to be a part of the communication process with owners of properties being considered for designation. Goodwill Ambassadors maybe.
Related news stories:
A facade is all that will be left of the former Pearl Street Cafe
City can’t find a way to work the developer of a 28 storey tower on Brant Street
By Staff
May 14th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
The Joseph Brant Hospital Foundation’s More Than Just a Business campaign has a new partner.
Alinea Group Holdings Inc. (formerly the Paletta Group of Companies) has once again joined and is the lead donor.
The Foundation’s goal to raise $100,000 in 100 days, Alinea will match all corporate donations made until July 31, and is challenging businesses across Burlington to be more than just a business.
  “Inspired by the example of our parents, my brother Michael and I are delighted to help the Joseph Brant Hospital improve the health and wellbeing of Burlington’s residents. ” said Paul Paletta, CEO, Alinea Group Holdings Inc. “This donation is a powerful demonstration of that commitment and we urge other companies to join us in contributing to a healthier tomorrow.”
Along with the JBH Foundation, Alinea is inviting corporate Burlington to show their customers, employees and friends they are doing more for our community and recognizing those corporate partners who have joined the J.
visit jbhfoundation.ca/corporate-giving.
By Staff
May 14th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Be reminded that visitors to Lowville Park must first reserve their free parking spot for park visits.
 Once Dad found a parking spot – this child was ready to play. Advanced reservations can be made online using Park Pass starting May 20 until Oct. 9, 2023.
Reservations are needed on weekends and holidays between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. and are free.
Visitors may book one spot per day since there are a limited number of parking spots available. This will help allow others the chance to enjoy the park. Reservations are available in three-hour time slots.
 A perfect spot for a picnic. There are many picnic tables set out for use. A child play area is also part of the park. Here’s how it works:
• One vehicle per reservation.
• Those walking or biking into the park don’t need a reservation.
• Visits are three hours long and include in and out privileges.
• Visitors will get an access code to enter the park at the automated entrance gates. Stop on the line so that the camera can take a clear scan of your license plate or use the bar code or numeric code on the keypad. This will open the gate. The gates will be left in the up/open position during weekdays when advanced reservations are not required.
• Vehicles must park in a designated parking spot.
All other areas are strictly enforced tow away zones. Violators will be tagged and towed.
Please be aware:
• Vehicles parked in the lot exceeding the 3-hour limit will be ticketed.
• Reservations should be done before leaving for the park. There are no Parking Ambassadors this year to help with reservations on-site.
• Those who do not have a reservation can scan the QR code on the park signage to try to make one if any spots are available for reservations. Drivers are asked to move away from the entrance to complete their reservation and be mindful not to block the entrance gates or traffic.
• Vehicles with damaged, bent or flaking license plates can use the bar code or numeric code on their reservation for entry.
• Changes/cancellations can be made up to 48 hours before the reserved arrival time; the date, name, license plate and number of people may be changed.
• Late grace period: The City understands unexpected things happen. It’s ok to be a few minutes late.
A very popular sport fishing site – waters teems with trout. Craig Kummer, Director of Transportation: “We are continuing to have visitors reserve their parking spot again this summer on weekends and holidays. This has helped us manage parking in the popular park for the past few summers. It is free and visitors can reserve their 3-hour time slot before they visit the park. We will keep the gates in the up position when reservations aren’t needed on weekdays so visitors can enjoy the park.
Visitors to the area should keep in mind that there are very few parking spaces available on Lowville Park Road and to be respectful to local businesses and residents.”
Links and Resources
Park Pass – for advanced parking spot reservations
Parking Reservations
By Staff
May 14th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
M-O-T-H-E-R
“M” is for the million things she gave me,
“O” means only that she’s growing old,
“T” is for the tears she shed to save me,
“H” is for her heart of purest gold;
“E” is for her eyes, with love-light shining,
“R” means right, and right she’ll always be,
Put them all together, they spell “MOTHER,”
A word that means the world to me.
Words were written by Howard Johnson
 When there is enough of this – there are seldom social problems with children they grow up.
 By Pepper Parr
May 13th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
John Reilly,the staff member who stick handles all the heritage issues explained at a Standing Committee meeting that what the city heritage people were trying to do with a property on Brant Street that was stumbling its way through a heritage issue said:
City council wants to see this heritage property to be part of the development planned for a Brant street location. “Our goal is for them to incorporate this into a development” which, we have seen take place at other development; the Beausoleil at Pearl and Lakeshore and the Core development on old Lakeshore Road that has included the Carriage House restaurant into their development. The issue he was addressing was the house at Brant and Prospect.
Reilly said: “There are many conservation options and we’ve signalled flexibility throughout every meeting that we’ve had with the applicant.
 View of the development currently under construction. The facade would be attached to the tower on the Pearl Street side which is on the left side of this rendering. The Mayor moves the motion and comments that “your rationale is entirely defensible”, adding “We have seen how well development can be incorporated into heritage redevelopment and the best example currently which is really exciting to see in real time is the Pearl and Lake Shore redevelopment adding that she has “never believed that it’s either preserve heritage or have redevelopment.”
“I believe there’s a win win here. And staff have been very clear about encouraging the applicant to go for the win win. “I continue to encourage them to incorporate this into a redevelopment and redo their plans. So fingers crossed, but I certainly support what we have here.”
The development the Mayor was excited about on Pearl at Lakeshore can be seen below.
 Once the home of the Pearl Street Cafe and a commercial graphics business. All that is left is the façade of the house. Once the 29 storey tower is complete the facade will be attached to the tower on the Pearl street side so that people can see what the streetscape looked like at one point in the history of the city.
Nothing about what the inside of the two story house looked like.
This is the state of heritage preservation in Burlington today.
 By Staff
May 13th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Imagine a future where the community of Halton takes meaningful action on climate change. HEN: Halton Environmental Network maintains that – You have an important role to play in contributing to climate action and developing the Halton Community Climate Plan.
Here’s how you can get involved:
 Citizens around the world are demanding that action be taken on how we treat the environment. Halton will listen to what people in the Region want to see done during a webcast on a Community Climate Plan. Check out HEN’s Website to understand the fundamentals of climate action for Halton, community greenhouse gas emissions, best practices, and what is going on locally.
Attend the virtual Community Climate Summit on Tuesday, May 30th
Learn about this initiative and have your voice heard! Register here to reserve your spot.
Share the information! One of the most important ways to help tackle climate is to talk about it. Pass along this information and share what you’re doing with your friends, co-workers, neighbours and organizations you belong to. Let’s reach as many people as possible.
Want to learn more? Go to our Community Climate Plan webpage for more information and find out how you can be involved!
If you have any questions, please contact climateaction@haltonenvironment.ca
Follow us on twitter @Henhere, Instagram @henhere and like our Facebook page ‘Halton Environmental Network’ to receive more updates and hear about new volunteer opportunities!
This work supports the development of a Halton Community Climate Plan to advance Halton Region’s participation in the Partners for Climate Protection program. The Halton Environmental Network has partnered with Halton Region to support this initiative.
 By Staff
May 12th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
The City’s telephone service will be temporarily unavailable for scheduled maintenance on Friday, May 12, between 9 and 10 p.m.
Many services are available online at burlington.ca/onlineservices. Residents may also email city@burlington.ca.
 No ringy-dingys with City Hall phone system
By Jacob Robinson
May 10th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Investing in Toronto can be lucrative, but it also requires careful planning and strategic decision-making. For the most part, it’s likely you will be focusing on investing in real estate, but there are other means to invest in Toronto. For example, you can still trade in stocks and gold, if you so wish. In fact, diversifying your portfolio will be a wise idea.
 One of the best investment markets in North America – stable, well governed with safe streets With its booming economy, diverse population, and thriving real estate market, Toronto has become a hot spot for investors looking to build their wealth. However, to solidify their investments and maximize their returns, Toronto investors need to take certain key steps, which we will cover throughout this post! Let’s get started.
Conduct Thorough Market Research
Before making any investment decision, either in real estate or otherwise, it’s crucial for Toronto investors to conduct thorough market research. In terms of real estate, they should analyze current real estate trends, property prices, rental rates, and vacancy rates in different neighbourhoods of Toronto. This research will provide them with valuable insights on the best areas to invest in, the potential for capital appreciation, and the expected cash flow from rental properties. By understanding the market dynamics, investors can make informed decisions and minimize risks.
For non-real estate investments, Toronto residents should analyze the niches they are investing into and have a good understanding of what is needed. They can contact relevant experts who have experience in these areas, or look online for relevant advice. There will surely be something out there that will be relevant and helpful.
Diversify Investment Portfolio
Diversification is a key strategy in minimizing risk and maximizing returns in any investment portfolio. Toronto investors should avoid putting all their eggs in one basket and diversify their investments across different types of properties, neighbourhoods, and asset classes. For instance, they can consider investing in residential properties, commercial properties, or even mixed-use properties.
 Diversification and balance are critical when building and maintaining an investment portfolio. Diversification helps investors spread their risks and ensures that any potential losses from one investment can be offset by gains from others, providing a more stable and solid investment portfolio. You should also have a good understanding over these types of investments. If you have only invested in real estate before, but don’t know anything about gold investing, then you should do more research. Fortunately, you can use online resources to keep an eye out on the XAUUSD chart, which can help you make more informed decisions when it comes to investing.
Partner with Professionals
Navigating the real estate market in Toronto can be complex, and it’s crucial for investors to have the right professionals by their side. This includes real estate agents, lawyers, accountants, and property managers.
These professionals can provide valuable advice, guidance, and support throughout the investment process, from identifying lucrative investment opportunities to managing properties effectively. Partnering with professionals can help investors make informed decisions and safeguard their investments.
Plan for Financing
Investing in real estate often requires financing, and it’s essential for Toronto investors to plan their financing strategy carefully. This includes assessing their borrowing capacity, credit score, and interest rates.
Investors should explore different financing options, such as mortgages, lines of credit, or partnerships, and choose the one that aligns with their investment goals and risk tolerance. Adequate financing planning ensures that investors have the necessary funds to solidify their investments and manage them effectively.
Understand Relevant Regulations
Before you can successfully invest, Toronto investors should be aware of specific regulations. For real estate investments, Toronto has specific regulations and laws governing the rental market, and it’s crucial for investors to understand them thoroughly. This includes knowing the rules around rent control, tenant rights, eviction process, and property standards.
 Niche markets offer significant opportunities: get professional advice before you invest. Investors need to comply with these regulations to avoid legal disputes, penalties, or fines, which can negatively impact their investment returns. Staying updated with the rental market regulations and working with professionals who are well-versed in them can help investors solidify their investments and ensure smooth property management.
Focus on Long-Term Investment Strategy
Real estate investment in Toronto is typically a long-term strategy, and investors should approach it with a long-term mindset. Toronto’s real estate market may experience short-term fluctuations, but historically, it has shown consistent appreciation over the long term. Investors should resist the urge to make impulsive decisions based on short-term market fluctuations and stay committed to their long-term investment strategy.
This includes having a clear investment plan, setting realistic goals, and having patience and discipline to ride out market cycles. A long-term investment strategy can help investors build wealth and solidify their investments.
Stay Updated with Market Trends
The real estate market in Toronto is dynamic and constantly evolving, and it’s crucial for investors to stay updated with the latest market trends. This includes monitoring changes in property prices, rental rates, demand-supply dynamics, and economic indicators.
Investors should also stay informed about government policies and regulations that may affect the real estate market, such as changes in tax laws or zoning regulations. By staying updated with market trends, investors can make informed decisions regarding their strategies and take advantage of emerging opportunities to solidify their investments, whether that be real estate or otherwise.
 By Staff
May 12th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Mapleview Shopping Centre sent us a picture of the floral-filled activation location at which people can celebrate Mother’s Day and capture the occasion with your cell phone or camera.
Called the DIY Bloom Bar by a local Burlington florist, mom-worthy prizing, and more from May 11 to 13.
Donations will be made to Halton Women’s Place and the Burlington-Oakville chapter of Mamas for Mamas.
 They are calling it a Bloom Bar
By Staff
May 11th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
To kick off the spring fishing season, families, fishing enthusiasts and first-time anglers across Ontario can celebrate Mother’s Day with free fishing this weekend.
 Might this be what your Mother wants to do on Sunday – license not needed on Mothers’ Day “Whether you’re new to fishing or an experienced angler, it’s a great way to bond with family this Mother’s Day weekend,” said Graydon Smith, Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry.
“This is a fantastic way for families to get out and enjoy one of Ontario’s greatest natural resources – our beautiful lakes, rivers and streams.”
If you are fishing for free on the Mother’s Day weekend, all conservation licence catch limits, size limits, sanctuaries and all other fishing regulations and rules still apply.
Quick Facts
• Approximately 1.2 million licensed anglers spend $1.75 billion per year on recreational fishing in Ontario.
• Additional annual free fishing events coming up this year include Father’s Day weekend (June 17-18), and Family Fishing Week to celebrate Canada Day (July 1-9).
• Canadian residents taking part in free fishing periods need to carry identification issued by the provincial or federal government, showing name and date of birth.
• Outside of free fishing periods, most Canadians 18 and older, but under the age of 65 must have an Outdoors Card and a fishing licence.
• All veterans and active Canadian Armed Forces members residing in Ontario can enjoy free recreational fishing in the province any time of year.
By Pepper Parr
May 11, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Part 2 of a series
When we reviewed Councillor Galbraith’s audited campaign financials, available now on the City website, we noticed some anomalies and decided to look closer.
Focusing on the donors who donated $1000 or the maximum $1200, in more detail we asked:
Who are they?
Why did they donate this much money to a Burlington councillor in an election most voters ignored, where he was running against only one unknown opponent?
Did Galbraith need this amount of money to win his seat?
All Burlington Council incumbents won re-election easily, most with far less money needed.
Based on our research, including simple online searches, we note some information on several of the donors, which we believe to be both highly relevant and accurate. The $1200 and $1000 donors are:
Galbraith $1200 Donors:
Don Husack: Owner, Don Victoria Homes (Burlington resident)
Dr. Michael Shih: President, Emshih Developments (Burlington resident)
Jessica Dipronio: Executive Assistant, National Homes (Bolton resident)
Sara Defina: Executive Assistant, National Homes (Maple resident)
Jenne Wilches (Brampton resident)
Gunther Bluesz: Lead Designer & Project Manager, Vrancor Group (Hamilton resident)
Arun Anand: Manager of Construction Management Plan, Infinity Development (lists a Waterdown Road address, which doesn’t seem to exist)
Adam Peaker, (Burlington, Ward 1 resident)
Ken Szekely, (Burlington business address)
Galbraith $1000 Donors:
Jeffrey Paikin: President, New Horizon Development Group (Burlington resident)
Vincent Molinaro: President, Molinaro Development Group (Burlington business address)
Bruce MacDonald (Oakville resident)
Meetali Acharya (Burlington, Ward 1 resident)
Richard King (Burlington, Ward 6 resident)
Nigel Morgan (Burlington, Ward 4 resident)
Marion Cournoyer (Smithville resident)
Kathleen Sembrano (Burlington, Ward 4 resident)
The number of donations to Galbraith from those tied to the development industry are (as set out above) similar to the donations given to Councillor Sharman, a councillor in his 13th year on Burlington council, and one with a history of receiving developer donations.
 National Homes development on Brant Street south of Havendale.
Mayor Meed Ward has (at least since the 2018 election) taken the position that she would not accept donations from any developer. Her Deputy Mayor of Business Development and Red Tape Reduction does not appear to follow this practice.
Galbraith was the subject of an Integrity Commissioner complaint that claimed he had a conflict of interest because he owned businesses and properties in Ward 1 and should recuse himself when development proposals within the Major Transit Service Area (MTSA) were debated at council. The complaint was found by the City of Burlington’s Integrity Commissioner to be without merit.
Ward 1 residents argued during the election that should Galbraith be re-elected, they would effectively be without representation at Council. A group of Ward 1 residents argued during the election that should Galbraith be re-elected, they would effectively be without representation at Council because of his perceived conflicts of interest.
So, what might all this mean? Well, ultimately it all depends on your perspective, your politics and how you view elections and the role of the public office holder.
Elections can be expensive if the race is tight and the competition fierce. Some candidates are able to fund their campaigns out of their own pockets. However, when campaigns come in costing $25,000 or more that is difficult for most candidates to pay for – they look to their supporters.
None of the Burlington ward races, or that for Mayor, were close in 2022. Each incumbent won easily. So, why if there was no real need, did Galbraith continue to collect funds from supporters and does it impose an inherent conflict when sitting in judgment of their development applications?
The source of any campaign donation is a mirror of sorts; a reflection of a candidate’s values and the types of interests that he or she attracts. For example, small donations from a hundred or more people might suggest that the candidate has a lot in the way of grassroots support.
A smaller number of donations from specific groups or interests – it could be developers, the commercial sector, hospitality or particular parts of the political spectrum – suggest that these sectors identify with the candidate as someone who best represents their particular community.
 A, D and C are properties owned by Galbraith. E is owned by Emshih Developments. B is a gas station at the corner of the intersection of Plains and Waterdown.  The yellow line that swoops through the graphic is the point where the Galbraith properties are located – on the west side of Waterdown. The have the same development designation as the property across the street. Burlington has, in the recent past, had a concern with the amount of money the development community contributes and how, as a community of interest, it tends to target particular individuals as the beneficiaries of their generosity and support.
 Ward 1 City Councillor Kelvin Galbraith first elected in 2018. They give a candidate money because they believe that he or she is most willing to support their interests; that a particular individual running for public office understands how they operate and is aligned with what they want to achieve.
In this context, there is a reason why developers have given the Ward 1 candidate so much money. They see it as a business investment and a perfectly acceptable expression of their support for someone amenable to their interests.
Other voters, applying different perspectives, goals and objectives, might see it a little differently. The optics of the Deputy Mayor of Business Development and Red Tape Reduction – a business owner in his own right – being the recipient of a very focused donation effort by the development industry is unfortunate. It can lead to unfounded speculation and conclusions.
 Where large developers are concerned, the sheer scale and massive dollar amounts involved in their projects make them different from any other type of donor. They have much more to gain (or lose) by council support and approval or non-support of their projects.
The ethics of Council members receiving and accepting donations from developers who have or will have in the future development projects in their Ward or city is something which plays out province-wide every election, with many council candidates publicly declaring that they will or will not accept such donations.
In part three of this article, to be published early next week, we will look at what all this means; the thousands of dollars of donations made by developers to ensure that the Ward 1 incumbent was re-elected.
We’ll chart where the major developments are in Ward 1 and show just how strategic Galbraith’s major donors were in seeding and protecting their investments.
We’ll illustrate how a perfectly legal activity – the act of campaign funding – can have dimensions that are not particularly attractive for a public official and can, quite quickly, lead to conclusions that the official would find uncomfortable.
Part 1 of this series.
By Staff
May 11th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
LaSalle Park Community Marina and public boat launch opening May 13
 LaSalle Park – bring about a boat on its way to the water. The LaSalle Park Community Marina and public boat launch will be opening May 13, 2023. The Marina is also home to the Burlington Sailing and Boating Club and the Burlington Able Sail program.
Through an agreement with the City, the Marina has been operated by the LaSalle Park Marina Association (LPMA) for 42 years. The City owns the wave break and the Marina.
LaSalle Park is owned by the City of Hamilton and leased to the City of Burlington for $1 per year. Burlington pays for the ongoing operation and maintenance of the park.
The Marina has 219 docking spaces and is protected by a new floating wave break that was installed in 2020.
The Burlington Sailing and Boating Club and the Burlington Able Sail program offer sailing programs at the Marina. In addition, the City has a public boat launch at the Marina that is protected by the floating wave break.
All good news. What the public might want to know is how are the discussions with the city of Hamilton going. Burlington currently leases the property and the lease is either up or very close to ending.
There was no mention of the $4 million that came out of the Hydro Reserve and used to pay for the breakwater. The Hydro Reserve was created out of the hydro bills that every household in the city paid month after month.
 The green part is city of Hamilton property.
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