 By Staff
August 12th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Noni Kaur has used a a superstitious Indian phrase to name and define the exhibot that opens at the AGB on August 16th, The work was curated by Jasmine Mander
Nazar na lage loosely translates to “knock on wood”, a superstitious Indian phrase meant to ward off negative energy. Artist Noni Kaur’s vibrant rangoli work welcomes visitors back into the gallery after years of pandemic upheaval. A cultural practice in India and Singapore, the art of rangoli uses coloured materials to decorate floors in domestic and public spaces. Traditionally made from powder pigments, flowers, rice, or sand, this practice attracts positive energy for celebrating auspicious occasions.
 The shape of Kaur’s rangoli begins with an O, a historic symbol of feminine energy. As the work morphs and curves, it begins to take on an abstract human form. Kaur’s work highlights the effect of cultural conditioning on labour-intensive rituals of preparations. The process takes months to complete – beginning by hand-dying mounds of desiccated coconut and then forming the design in situ. The shape of Kaur’s rangoli begins with an O, a historic symbol of feminine energy. As the work morphs and curves, it begins to take on an abstract human form.
As time passes, the desiccated coconut and non-toxic materials allow the artwork to become a repository of energy for the microbial systems living in the installation.
The mylar window works depicts the microbial formations occurring deep in the rangoli. Images of the cellar forms are projected on the sculptural floor installation as the sun’s light changes throughout the day.
As the work slowly decays over the course of the exhibition, it mirrors the cycle of life, death, and return to the earth.
 Noni Kaur Noni Kaur is an award-winning multidisciplinary artist and educator. Kaur’s works are an embodiment of her response to intersectional identity across cultures and communities as a Singaporean woman of Punjabi descent in Canada. Her immersive, reactive, multi-sensory installations bridge gaps between gender, culture, the body, and the non-human world, through her expansive, topographical landscapes of desiccated coconut installations. The works are live conversations about lived experiences, assimilations, materiality, rituals, and bridging gaps of the human and post-human environments.
Kaur’s work has been featured in international venues including: the Havana Biennale, Cuba; the Asian Art Biennale, Dhaka, Bangladesh; the Fukuoka Triennale, Asian Art Museum, Japan; White Columns, New York; the Henie Onstad Kunstenter, Oslo, Norway amongst others. Kaur lives and works in Toronto, Ontario.
AGB Hours
Tuesday & Wednesday 10 AM – 9 PM
Thursday – Saturday 10 AM – 5 PM
Sunday & Monday CLOSED
 By Frank P. Mickens
August 14th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
As online gambling continues to break boundaries, it was only a matter of time before governments around the world bent to the wishes of their citizens. The penetration of online gambling has spread to Canada’s largest city, and residents of Greater Toronto are chasing in on the fun.
While the gambling regime in Canada was previously rippled with obscurity, the coast is much clearer now as provinces now have the leeway to enact regulations and issue licenses pertaining to the gambling industry within their territory. In exercise of this right, the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation regulate the gambling scene in Ontario, which includes the Greater Toronto Area.
The gambling industry has recorded major success in Ontario, with several land-based casinos, race tracks, and slots providers available in the province. This love for gambling is also translated onto the digital scene as online gambling has become popular in many areas of the territory.
Today’s post is by Frank P. Mickens of https://ontariocasino.online/ a virtual casino review service in the province.
 Gambling at an online location has a lot of advantages plus a fun experience. How many people gamble online from the Hamilton area?
Recent surveys have shown that a large percentage of adult Canadians living in Ontario have at one time, or the other tried their hand at online gambling. The province’s population stands at a staggering 14 million people, representing a huge market for the online gambling industry.
This population strength and accessibility of gambling platforms have made it easier for most of the population to explore their gaming interests. Hamilton bears some interesting similarities to its mother province, Ontario. The city is home to a port which makes industries and commerce commonplace. The city’s population is just under 600,000, but that hasn’t stopped its inhabitants from gambling online.
Hamilton area families are gambling savvy and manage to find time out of their busy schedules for gaming and entertainment. Hamilton area families are also huge lovers of Bingo, which happens to be one of the most popular online gambling games of chance in Ontario.
Gambling Safely Online in Hamilton and Greater Toronto areas
As entertaining as online gambling may be, the foundation to having endless fun is the security of your data and funds. Since wagering is done online, customers are required to make deposits via bank transfers or card payments. So it is essential that you gamble on trustworthy websites only. Some of the ways to verify a website’s trustworthiness are by:
1. Licensing status:
Under Canadian law, operating casinos and iGaming businesses (whether virtual or land-based) is illegal without obtaining a federal or provincial license. If the gambling house has no license, it is safer to stay away to avoid falling victim to fraudsters. An operator’s licensing status also shows whether they have met the minimum financial requirement set by the government and are bound by Canadian laws or not.
2. Reviews
The reputation of a gambling house is also a key factor to consider. This is because offshore gaming platforms may still offer Canadians their services without obtaining a license. In such situations, it is advisable to read about the company’s services, terms, and the experiences of other users before plowing in. Fortunately, sites like ontariocasino.online help research these sites, so you don’t have to.
 Protect your personal financial data by using Prepaid cards 3. Use Prepaid Cards
Even if you’re not conversant with the risks of virtual gambling today, entering your financial information online requires some caution. For this reason, it is advisable to use prepaid cards which are not connected to your bank account to make payments on these platforms. These cards have a preloaded fixed amount which you can top up via the issuer’s trusted channels. This helps to keep your funds and private information safe.
4. Encryption
Encryption software helps online casinos to protect their servers and customer data from getting hacked. As companies with large access to data, funds, and customer information, it is important that virtual gaming platforms are well protected. Encryption software ensures that your activities and exchanged data with online platforms stay private and invisible to third parties.
5. Accessibility and User Experience
A virtual gaming platform’s selling point is how easy it is to use and how well it adapts to the various devices of its customers. Thanks to the wide reach of online gaming today, you can access these platforms via smartphones, laptops, iPads, and many other internet-enabled devices. A good gaming website should have a friendly user interface that lets you enjoy the games seamlessly regardless of your device.
 Make sure the location you are gambling at on line is fully registered and tightly regulated. Residents of the Hamilton Area and Greater Toronto can look forward to more exciting games thanks to the current legal stand on gambling in the province. This comes at a time when lots of scrutiny and regulation are being channeled into the gambling industry to make it even safer and more enjoyable.
 By Staff
August 11th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The readers are what count.
In the direct correspondence, their emails and the comments they leave in the newspaper for others to enjoy they reflect ideas and thoughts of some of the people in the city and the several thousand that don’t currently live in Burlington.
One reader sent the following as a comment and we have “upgraded it to stand alone Opinion.
Mr. Parr asks the right question and, wisely, leaves the reader to arrive at their own conclusion. Here is mine and it is only mine. The context for the quote referenced in the article was Meed Ward’s response to the Ford pronouncement that he was proposing to give the Mayors of Ottawa and Toronto veto rights over their Councils.
Meed Ward (along with the Big City Mayors) was very quick to support “investigating” the broader application of this veto power and cited the remarkable synergy of the Burlington Council in support. ‘We’re a cohesive group anyways, are we not?’ Well, no, and the video clip attached to this article demonstrates more vividly than words could ever do, how dangerous such power would be if placed in the hands of any Mayor.
It is particularly worthwhile to watch the expressions of Council members (even Galbraith and Nisan) and the City Manager while our Mayor attempts her ‘ad hoc’ agenda management.
 Marianne Meed Ward on election night in 2018 Whether you are one of her many followers, true believers in her brand of social media populism, or one of her detractors, often once part of the faithful who now view her with an open cynicism – Marianne Meed Ward is, I believe, a divisive figure; she polarizes. There are few in Burlington, if they draw breath and are on the right side of the grass, who don’t hold an opinion on Her Worship.
She is exceptionally charismatic; she can make someone feel that they are the only focus of her interest and commitment. She attracts followers as if by a force of nature. She is also resourceful, insightful and one of the hardest working politicians you are likely to meet. She picks the popular issues and rides them until they are exhausted. And she knows no “time out”. If she fails in something, it will never be because she has not put the time and effort into winning.
But she can also be, in my opinion, impatient, spiteful and self-absorbed. She does not appear to forget a slight or a perceived harm and she seems to lose perspective when an opportunity to “get back” presents itself.
Her treatment of Shawna Stolte is a glaring and shameful case in point. (Click HERE to view the video) So, does she work well with her Council? I would suggest that if the criteria are toleration of opposing views, natural ability to lead or a desire to selflessly mentor all subordinates equally, then the answer is a rather resounding “NO”. But this is only my opinion and my conclusion, of course.
 Mayor Marianne Meed Ward doing a Cogeco TV show with Blair Smith and Lynne Crosby Blair Smith is a life long Burlington resident who has been active in representing the views of his peers. He was part of the team that worked with Marianne Meed Ward to get her elected Mayor in 2018
 By Staff
August 11th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton District School Board is pleased to announce that Pardeep Nagra has been appointed to the role of Human Rights & Equity Advisor. Nagra will join the senior administrative team on Aug. 11, 2022.
 Pardeep Nagra appointed to the role of Human Rights & Equity Advisor for the Halton district School Board. Nagra will advise the Board on human rights-related strategic policy issues and provide direction on matters of equity, inclusion and human rights obligations. The role of the Human Rights & Equity Advisor is to build and maintain a culture of respect for human rights and supporting the resolution of human rights complaints.
With decades of experience in human rights, diversity, equity and inclusion, Nagra brings critical expertise in these areas to an educational environment. Nagra is the Executive Director of the Sikh Heritage Museum of Canada and serves on the Board of Directors for the Canadian Museum of Human Rights.
His most recent role has been as Manager of Employment Equity at the Toronto District School Board. Nagra is also a motivational and public speaker and former Canadian boxer who has visited HDSB schools to speak with students and staff on numerous occasions. He is the recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal (2012).
“I am most excited to connect with students, staff, parents/guardians and the community of Halton,” says Nagra. “I encourage you to reach out to me and invite me to your classroom, school, department, community organization or event. I am here to serve you.”
“The Board is committed to providing an inclusive environment for all students and staff that models a culture of equity and respect,” says Curtis Ennis, Director of Education for the Halton District School Board. “We look forward to working with Pardeep to proactively support HDSB students and staff and address human rights issues”.
This appointment fills the vacancy of the Board’s former Human Rights & Equity Advisor Jewel Amoah.
 By Staff
August 11th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Probably the best summer offering in the city.
The Performing Arts Centre has been pitting on their Jazz on the Patio for at least five years – it might be seven.
The talent they bring in is usually super.
JAZZ ON THE PLAZA – Four different acts over two days – taking place on the Performing Arts Plaza – all free – just get there early to get a seat.
WEEKEND OF AUGUST 13-14, 2022
Every summer, BPAC presents some amazing Jazz performers as part of our annual Jazz on the Plaza. This free outdoor event is attended by over 1,000 people annually.
Amanda Martinez will perform on Saturday August 13th at 4pm; Shuffle Demons will perform on the same date at 6pm
On the 14th Clerel will perform on Sunday August 14th at 2pm and Laila Biali will perform at 4pm
Amanda Martinez
Saturday, August 13, 2022 at 4pm
Approx. 75 mins. No intermission.
 Amanda Martinez a Toronto-based singer/songwriter whose music exultingly blends her unique Mexican and South African roots with flamenco soul. Amanda Martinez is a Toronto-based singer/songwriter whose music exultingly blends her unique Mexican and South African roots with flamenco soul. Her solo CDs have garnered her multiple nominations for Latin Jazz Performer of the Year, and her songs have appeared on three Putumayo world music collections: Bossanova Around the World, Latin Dreamland and most recently, Cafe Latino. Her third and latest CD “Mañana” was helmed by GRAMMY-winning producer Javier Limón and is set for release in 2013. Limón, whose production credits include acclaimed singers such as Buika, Mariza and Diego el Cigala, hails Martinez as “one of the greatest voices in the world.”
Martinez has headlined at the legendary Blue Note jazz club, at the 2010 FIFA World Cup Festivities in South Africa, and at the 2011 PanAmerican Games in Guadalajara, and is now honorary co-chair of PanAm 2015’s Ignite program. She will be performing in a series of countdown concerts to the 2015 Games, as well as speaking at events connecting athletes and sports fans with musicians and art lovers.
“She captures the raw emotion and passion of Latin Music making us sit up and listen” – CBC Radio
SHUFFLE DEMONS
August 13th – 6 pm
 These “demons” are energetic and move around when they perform. Lots of sound. The Shuffle Demons are a high-energy Canadian band that blends virtuosic jazz and funk playing with eye-catching costumes and over the top stage antics to produce an incredible show. A hit at festivals all over the world, the Shuffle Demons are a crowd pleasing, full-on musical group that backs up wild stage antics with phenomenal playing by some of Canada’s most talented musicians.
The electrifying musical fusion that The Shuffle Demons brought to life almost 30 years ago has entertained audiences around the world with their genre bending sound. Saxophones, upright bass, and wild percussion backed up by incredibly solid musicianship and a highly entertaining show will leave you wanting more!
“It’s not every day you hear a band with three saxophones plus bass and drums with such solid energy that this band can serve.” – The WholeNote
CLEREL
Sun Aug 14, 2022 at 2pm
Approx. 75 mins. No intermission.
 Clerel: A beautiful fusion of instrumentation layered with melancholic lyrics Although he grew up singing with his grandmother, Clerel did not learn how to play an instrument until he was in University. We are thankful he picked up that guitar as he is now bringing us breezy and soulful music that earned him a spot on Stephen Colbert’s Late Show.
Living in Montreal, Clerel is Camaroonian born, a cultural influence heard and felt in his music. His music is also heavily influenced by American soul and jazz with deep roots in his experiences as an African immigrant living in the West. Experience the African drum beats coupled with guitar and trumpets in songs such as Lonely Dance. A beautiful fusion of instrumentation layered with Clerel’s melancholic lyrics.
LAILA BIALI
Sun Aug 14, 2022 at 4pm
Approx. 75 mins. No intermission.
 Laila Biali – “ability to meld traditional jazz with contemporary pop so effortlessly that neither style seems out of place on the same record” – Spinner Magazine Laila Biali takes the best of pop, rock, classical, world and soul, informs it with her expertise in jazz, and weaves it into her musical arrangements and original songs. Laila has presented her music at prestigious venues spanning five continents including the North Sea Jazz Festival, Tokyo’s Cotton Club, Peru’s El Festival Internacional de Lima, and Carnegie Hall in New York City.
The talented Biali is a multi-award-winning Canadian singer-songwriter and pianist and has toured with Chris Botti, Paula Cole, Suzanne Vega and recorded with and supported Sting. Her accolades include “SOCAN Composer of the Year” and “SOCAN Keyboardist of the Year” at Canada’s National Jazz Awards.
“It’s not every day you hear a band with three saxophones plus bass and drums with such solid energy that this band can serve.” – The WholeNote
 By Pepper Parr
August 11th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
What the province is proposing:
“The Ontario government introduced legislation that would give the mayors of Toronto and Ottawa more responsibility to deliver on shared provincial-municipal priorities, including building 1.5 million new homes over the next 10 years.
“If passed, the Strong Mayors, Building Homes Act, would give the mayors of Toronto and Ottawa the ability to move priority projects forward and get more homes built faster. Proposed changes include:
-
-
- hiring the Chief Administrative Officer and municipal department heads, and create and re-organize departments
- appointing chairs/vice-chairs for identified committees and local boards, and establish new identified committees
- bringing matters for council consideration related to provincial priorities
- vetoing bylaws approved by council if they relate to matters of provincial priority
- proposing the municipal budget
 Steve Clark,Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs has tabled legislation that would mean a much different form of local government. If we are reading this correctly the Mayor – not Council would hire the CAO (City Manager) It would the Mayor’s hand picked choice – the Mayor could hire the departments heads – a task that is the responsibility of the city manager.
Those are sweeping changes and in our view not the kind of power and control you want to put in the hands of the wrong kind of Mayor.
A Mayor could propose a budget – were this to happen any self respecting city treasurer would resign.
To us this looks like the thin edge of a wedge that would/could do a lot of damage.
“This legislation is an important tool to get more homes built faster, and is one of a number of initiatives being taken by the Ontario government to address the housing shortage.
“The reality is over one third of Ontario’s growth over the next decade is expected to happen in Toronto and Ottawa, and too many families are already struggling with housing and the rising cost of living.
“We need to support efficient local decision-making to help cut through red tape and speed up development timelines,” said Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “While there is no silver bullet to addressing the housing crisis, the Strong Mayors, Building Homes Act is another step in the right direction to provide more tools to municipal leaders to deliver on their platform commitments to constituents. The province is actively deepening our cooperation on all fronts across all municipalities to get 1.5 million homes built over the next 10 years.”
“These proposed measures would allow council to have the ability to propose amendments to the municipal budget. Council would also be able to override the mayor’s veto of any budget amendments and by-laws related to provincial priorities with a two-thirds majority vote.
If passed, the proposed changes are intended to take effect on November 15, 2022 — the start of the new municipal council term.
This is a debate that needs close watching.
The proposal is to apply to Ottawa and Toronto. Are smaller cities next?
By Andy Walker
August 12th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
In the world of growing economies, business is one of the best ways to catch up. But opening an online business might sound burdensome to many people. You might have an idea, but the execution seems like a far future, next to impossible. In times like this, we have eCommerce agencies as your saviour.
 An eCommerce site gives your business a world wide reach and lets everyone in your home market know who you are and what you do. What Are eCommerce Agencies?
How do you start a business? First, you start researching a specific market. Suppose you want to know about new Ontario online casinos and you research about that and gather some information. Then you get your own idea and start a business. You can also search for business strategies online. But theirs and your ideas will contradict as they only provide you with a generalized plan which might not be effective in your case.
eCommerce agencies are specialized agencies that make customized plans for clients according to their needs and business goals for them to achieve the target sales. Since they know what they are doing, you do not have to think much about it and face trials and errors.
Why Will You Choose Agencies and Not an Employee?
Hiring an employee indeed sounds easier and more economical than hiring an agency. But what are the advantages of hiring an agency? Let us get into it.
1. Expertise
Agencies are experts in their fields as they know the latest trends in the market, new technologies and creativity in their approach. They will provide you with expert guidance. An employee cannot have expertise in all the areas; they need additional training for it.
2. Saving Time and Cost-Effectiveness
Time is valuable in business as is the proper amount of investment. Agencies will provide you with a fixed budget and they have manpower so they will do the job in time. It will save your money as well as your precious time. Employees, on the other hand, can strain your budget.
 Creating a budget and staying within it is critical. 3. Building Your Site
eCommerce agencies are connected with technical platforms so they will help you build a site from scratch or can upgrade your new site according to your requirement. You won’t need another employee for that.
4. Digital Marketing Services
Agencies help with SEO, promoting your brand via social media, product presentation, content creation, jamming the site with viewers by running PPC promotions, SMS and email marketing, influencers, etc. Otherwise, you have to hire multiple employees.
5. Strategizing CRO
If you are in the business field, you should know how much CRO helps in growing the ROI of your site. CRO consultants will take time to deliver the result but agencies are faster and therefore, they will help prevent losses.
What Factors to Keep in Mind While Choosing Your Agency?
There are a few checkboxes to tick before you finalize an agency. Let’s checkout the following steps:
1. Authenticity and Review Check
There are lots of frauds going on online and you do not want to be a part of it. Hence, always check the site thoroughly to find any discrepancy that might be there. Then head over to the reviews section to see if they are positive or not. Check both the original site as well as review articles to judge the best option.
2. Budget and Negotiation
The main reason you want an agency is to optimize your budget. Some websites offer price calculations and for some, you have to mail and clarify. After clarifying the budget, you can negotiate with them.
3. Finding the Specialization You Need
Agencies have descriptions on their pages from where you can find what areas they specialize in. Some might be experts in web designs while some might work with social media marketing. You need to choose which one is the best fit for your business.
 This is the reason you are in business. Creating an eCommerce extension gives you world wide reach for your product or service. 4. After-Sales Service Check
After-sales service is essential in case some problem arises with your site later. Make sure to check the reviews if they provide it or not.
The Bottom Line
Choosing a good eCommerce agency is like opening a door to success. It will determine your future growth. The modern business market requires advanced technology and innovation. So, to keep yourself up with the competitive market, you have to find the best option to realize your dream. Nothing is too far-fetched, it only requires a genie. Let an eCommerce agency be that for you.
 By Connor Fraser
August 11th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
We have allowed powerful firms to created wasteful narratives. It’s time to push back.
How many times per week do you poo?
This past winter, I happened upon a regular schedule, nearly every day. Oh, and by “poo” I mean shampoo.
In December, my hairdresser recommended a new set of shampoo, conditioner and product specific to my hair style – instead of generic soaps found at the grocery store. I suppose it was more excitement at the prospect of taking better care and ownership of my body that caused me to embrace this daily routine. Recently, it has propelled me to think about how often I wash, and whether soaps are even necessary every time. They are not.
Proponents of the moderately famous “no poo” movement will argue that abstention from all commercial soaps is possible. There are people all over the internet who claim to have done so for 5+ years. While those claims are more than a bit ridiculous and I don’t plan to jump on their boat anytime soon, recently I have experimented with lathering up only every third day, and (maybe) rinsing for the remainder. And I haven’t noticed any difference. If anything, my hair is healthier than before.
Therefore, it comes as no surprise that Europeans get away with much less – they shampoo roughly half as often as North Americans. My friends and family who recently returned from vacation in France, Spain or Italy all reported a great experience. They didn’t mention anything about slippery streets or having to throw out clothes after brushing into someone’s head on the subway.
 The push to have long flowing curly hair is a feature of advertising in North America In fact, regular use of shampoo arrived only in the 20th century, when large-scale advertising campaigns “showered” people with the idea. They painted an image whereby buying and using their product was a ticket to gaining social acceptance. Those who remained on fringe were medieval.
As a student of business, I appreciate that firms exist to harness (hopefully for good) the most basic human instinct which is self-interest. Optimally, appropriate checks and balances would be in place to control the worst impulses of owners to, among endless possibilities, commit fraud or abuse their employees. But there is nothing illegal about pushing a product which people don’t really need, or at a greater frequency than is actually necessary.
I wonder whether Canadians are guilty of sleep walking into this trap. People, myself included, love stories. We crave simplification and narratives, and marketing departments at most large multinationals have evolved into history’s most successful storytellers. The problem arises, however, when the stories we are told do not end up creating value for consumers. Business, like politics and life, is a game. We must be vigilant to keep competitors honest and fight tooth and nail to avoid being coaxed out of our hard earned savings of real and social capital.
Over-usage of shampoo is but one example. What about laundry & dishwasher detergent? For the past year, I have washed my clothes with Tide. Despite always pouring the smallest suggested measure of detergent, even for heavy loads, I have never experienced dirty clothes. Moreover, my family always splits the bar of dishwasher detergent in half. Literally zero difference.
What about cellphones? Is it fate that everyone on the planet should have a portable phone, or rather did executives in Silicon Valley conspire to cook up another great narrative which we have all embraced without an afterthought? While I’m being crude, there is plenty of truth here.
 You’ve seen a lot of these. Because we live in an increasingly digital age where advanced marketing tactics have given firms the upper hand, so too must we arm consumers, and particularly young consumers, with the tools they need to defend themselves. When I was in elementary school, I recall my teacher briefly explaining to the class why it’s important to constantly question the messages behind advertisements.
That was one lesson, in 4th grade. For the most part, myself and my classmates were left to fend for ourselves. One opportunity might be to revitalize Ontario’s media literacy curriculum such that it rigorously prepares tomorrow’s generation to become more responsible and critical consumers. Additionally, consumer protection groups might accelerate verification of claims made by companies to ascertain whether they are backed by objectivity and science. Perhaps there is a rationale for increased funding towards federal watchdogs such as the Office of Consumer Affairs.
In the meantime, I encourage you to think about what products and services you consume as part of your routine, with an eye for identifying which are truly adding value, and which are freeloading. Consider sharing your findings and perspective with a comment below – I’m excited to learn what you discover!
 Connor Fraser is a long-time resident of Aldershot.
In 2020, he completed undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto, with a B.A.Sc. in Engineering Science and a major in Electrical and Computer Engineering.
He has returned to U of T to enroll in the dual Master of Global Affairs and Master of Business Administration program.
 By Staff
August 10th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
When there is a change in the way business is done the thieves in the world will find a way to exploit the change and take advantage of people who are not fully aware of the change.
Try hiring a trades person. They just aren’t available. What happens – Home Renovation Fraud takes place.
 The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) is issuing a warning to residents about a home repair fraud believed to be operating in the region.
Police believe these suspects may be intentionally targeting older adults.
The fraud involves contractors travelling door-to-door selling services that are unsolicited by a consumer. The suspect will provide quotes with prices lower than market value and once a deal is reached, will request a large cash payment. Based on complaints, initial work may start, however the work will be sub-par and/or incomplete.
After this initial work, the consumer may be approached to provide more money for supplies or to complete payment for the project. Once this additional or final payment is received, the contractor disappears and phone calls and text messages will go unanswered leaving the consumer with a damaged or partially completed project.
 If in doubt DON’T And ask questions There have been two complaints with this similar mode of operation and suspects in Halton. Police believe there may be additional victims in Halton, as well as outside of our region.
The suspects are described as two white males with Irish or possibly Scottish accents.
Suspect 1 is 25-35 years old, approximately 5’9” – 6’0” tall with a heavy build and dark black hair.
Suspect 2 is also 25-35 years old approximately 5’9” – 6’0” tall with a heavy build and short light blonde or light brown hair. This suspect was also wearing a moustache.
In both cases the suspects had a younger man with them claiming to be a son of one of the suspects.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact the Regional Fraud Unit at 905-465-8741.
 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.
The “contractor” or suspects that traditionally perpetrate these types of scams can be aggressive and eager to acquire an initial cash deposit from victims. A series of business cards, pamphlets, and printed contracts may also accompany door-to-door sales pitches.
The following consumer protection tips and information are being shared to help consumers when hiring a contractor for their home.
• Get recommendations from people you trust.
• If it sounds too good to be true, it likely is.
• Do your research.
• Don’t be pressured to make a quick decision.
• Ensure the contractor is insured.
• Get multiple written estimates.
• Check references.
• Be cautious of unsolicited offers via the phone, or door to door.
Put it on Paper
• Work requested and agreed upon.
• Dates – Start, benchmarks, and finish.
• Exact Cost of the project.
• Acquire a receipt.
• Acquire a guarantee / warranty information.
 By Staff
August 10th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
 If we think Fall – will the Summer change? Is city hall giving us the “bums” rush – talking about the fall recreation program while we are enjoying wonderful summer weather.
The City of Burlington’s fall recreation programs will open for online registration on Saturday, August 20. Adult program registration begins at 9 a.m. and swimming and youth program registrations begin at 11 a.m.
All programs are currently available for viewing online at burlington.ca/recreation.
 These two are pleased as punch with their effort. Adult programs include sports, games, fitness, craft and art activities, social events, discussion and learning options and more for adults of all ages and skill levels. In-person and virtual courses are offered.
Aquatics offers a variety of programs including youth, adult and private swim lessons and leadership courses. There are also preschool, school age, youth, or leadership programs.
If you are interested in joining the Junior Redcoats or Burlington Teen Tour Band, email bttb@burlington.ca for more information.
Programs open for non-residents to register on Friday, Aug. 26, at 9 a.m.
Assisted Registration
Residents who need extra support or do not have online access to register for programs, can call 905-335-7738 for staff-assisted telephone registrations.
The customer service team is available through email at liveandplay@burlington.ca or 905-335-7738, Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and weekends 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Recreation Fee Assistance
Recreation is for all, regardless of financial situation. Recreation Fee Assistance is funding made available to Burlington residents or families who need help to pay for City of Burlington recreation programs. For more information, or to apply, visit burlington.ca/feeassistance.
Two thins of concern:
The registration assistance – it is no longer a one on one situation – the help is at the end of a telephone line and getting through is said to be a challenge.
Add to the the price increases: No mention that the increases are steep.
By Pepper Parr
August 10th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The City of Burlington has amazing residents that do incredible work to support the community.
Through the years, the City has had a variety of programs designed to celebrate and recognize community champions. In 1965, a program called Civic Recognition was started and evolved most recently into Burlington’s Best, where individuals were nominated by the community and recognized in several categories. A volunteer committee assisted in evaluating the nominations and determining the recipient of the award in each category.
 As the City continues to evolve, we are looking for your input about the best way to celebrate and recognize the significant contributions of those who do work to support our community.
The city administration is looking for community input on what this new initiative could look like.
Click HERE to get the survey. Share your thoughts and ideas. It will take approximately five minutes.
Having monitored and attended these events for years the Gazette would like to make the following suggestions.
Parents should not be allowed to nominate and have their children accepted as worthy of recognition, the person nominating cannot be related tto the nominee.
The event should be free.
There should be a lot of food available.
It should be held in a location where hundreds can show up
Don’t have members of council involved in the decision making process – let them approve the program and then get out of thee way – Oh – maybe a photo op if they insist (they will) and let it go at that.
 Gordon Schottlander – D Day landing survivor who came to Canada at the end of the ward and has served his community ever since. The closest event we have seen that got close to what can and should take place is the recent Jubilee awards that were handed out to 73 people. The problem there was people asked others to nominate them and a lot of people that seem to “collect” awards were once again recognized. At the Jubilee event there was a single standing ovation given to 104 year old Gordon Schottlander .
Everyone who stood knew what they were standing up for – it was a wonderful moment.
These events are important but they should not become stepping stones into a political life.
For those who do complete the survey – think about what can be done.
 By Staff
August 9th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The announcement today from the Performing Arts Centre must have taken a lot of weight off the shoulders of people who have had to sit and wait for the lock-downs to be lifted.
There have been events at the Performing Arts Centre but it was far from the “show business” they were supposed to be doing.
The curtain for the Season will rise on September 15th. Air Supply will be first on the programme.
The announcement read: “After a long couple of years of pandemic closures, re-openings, and restrictions, The Burlington Performing Arts Centre (BPAC) is thrilled to be reopening our doors and sharing our 2022/2023 Season which begins September 15th, 2022.
 Russell Hitchcock and Graham Russell’s mutual air zodiac signs, spent a decade at the top of the charts and released nearly an album per year for almost 20 years September 15th Air Supply, the iconic Australian pop band that was founded in 1976 is back in Canada and kicks off our 2022/2023 Season. The band that was named for both Russell Hitchcock and Graham Russell’s mutual air zodiac signs, spent a decade at the top of the charts and released nearly an album per year for almost 20 years leaving a long legacy of love songs. Russell and Hitchcock will be gracing our stage, performing hits such as “All out of Love”, “Lost in Love”, and “Without You” on Thursday September 15th at 8:00pm.
September 20th, We are excited to welcome Tom Cochrane with Red Rider back to BPAC again this year on Tuesday September 20th at 8:00pm. Cochrane’s contribution to the Canadian music scene is immense and spans over 4 decades. Even after releasing 17 albums over the course of his career, filling larger arenas, theatres and festival stages, Tom Cochrane says those early days that built character and helped him find the content for many of his songs that he performs to this day, never leave him.
 Tom Cochrane Tom is one of only 3 male singer songwriters to have a diamond certified album in Canada, selling over a million copies. Songs such as “Life is a Highway” and “Lunatic Fringe” have made it to the international charts and will possibly be performed on our stage next month!
 Johnny Reid Our first SOLD OUT show of the Season is Love Someone – An Intimate Evening with Johnny Reid. Performing on Thursday September 29th and Friday September 30th at 8:00pm, there are only a few single seats available for purchase online. What a wonderful sign for the performing arts that everyone is ready to be back in the theatre!
 Glass Tiger Rounding out our first month of the Season is Glass Tiger on Friday October, 14th at 8:00pm. Enjoy iconic cuts like the 1986 release “Don’t Forget Me (When I’m Gone)” to their recently released album “33”. The new album takes the classic Glass Tiger sound with a new, raw, maturity that the band says is them coming back to their original roots of picking up a guitar and starting a band!
This is a show not to miss!
 By Pepper Parr
August 9th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
OPINION
In ten days we will know who the candidates for city council are going to be and have a pretty good idea what the next council is going to look like as well.
 Kelvin Galbraith: Could be in trouble Ward 1 was a given. Kelvin Galbraith has a high school teacher campaigning against him thinking that he can continue as a high school teacher and serve as a council member at the same time.
There appears to be a change. Robert Radway now realizes that he can get a leave of absence from the Board of Education but that will not apply to his first year as a Councillor. Radway said he has a plan in place that will allow him to perhaps do some teaching and still serve as a member of Council.
 Lisa Kearns: Probably has the finest mind on this council – needs to work on some issues. Lisa Kearns should prevail in ward 2 – candidates do keep coming out of the wood work but Kearns has earned the right to a second term. A real race for the seat will test Kearns in a way that will make her very uncomfortable but she will be better for it.
Rory Nisan has proven to be a disappointment for many – apparently not those working with him for re-election and certainly not for the Mayor. She now has a new lap dog.
 Rory Nisan: biggest disappointment Jennifer Hounslow has a chance but she is pushing a rock up a hill – but Councillors that disappoint consistently do lose. and on that level Rory Nisan has proven to be a disappointment. The Gazette supported Nisan in 2018 – mentored him a little, urged him to get a copy of the Procedural bylaw and know it well. He certainly did that – took a complaint to the Integrity Commissioner that found Stolte had broken a rule.
 Shawna Stolte should retain her seat. There are those who have issues with the Integrity Commissioners reports and the sanctions they handed out – the Gazette will comment on just what that is all about in the near future.
Paul Sharman will be acclaimed in ward 5.
 Angelo Bentivegna faces a stiff contender. His less than 50 seat plurality in 2018 and the serious dissatisfaction on the part of a lot of people in Millcroft over the attempts to build on golf course land have not helped.
Rick Greenspoon has his work cut out for him but he seems more than able to take the seat.
While there are many that don’t like what Mayor Meed Ward has delivered – Anne Marsden just does not have what it takes to be a Mayor.
What she might manage to do is significantly reduce the Meed Ward vote enough to smarten up Marianne.
 These are the people you elected in 2018. Time to think about how many you want to serve you again. So what will that deliver?
Meed Ward as Mayor
Galbraith in ward 1
Kearns in ward 2
Ward 3 could be a surprise
Stolte in Ward 4
Sharman in ward 5
Greenspoon in ward 6
We might want to revise these suggestions after nominations close.
In the weeks ahead we will interview and spend time with each of the candidates.
The options will be clearer on the 19th which is when nominations close.
There is a hope out there that Kimberly Calderbank will take a run at the Office of Mayor. Calderbank is a strong strategist and there are some very respectable people who will support her.
The process of filing a nomination is cluttered – you have to make an appointment with the city Clerk. Should Calderbank file papers the news will have been flashed to the Mayor before the ink is dry on her papers.
Salt with Pepper is the musings, reflections and opinions of the publisher of the Burlington Gazette, an online newspaper that was formed in 2010 and is a member of the National Newsmedia Council.
 By Pepper Parr
August 9th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
In a statement released by Mayor Meed Ward recently she said:
Burlington Council is very cohesive and collaborative, with more than 90% of our votes being unanimous, and the balance of votes with strong consensus around options. We work well together and I know that will continue regardless of whatever changes are made to the role and function of the mayor.
There is an opportunity to see just how well Mayor Meed Ward has worked with her council.
CLICK for the link.
By Pepper Parr
August 8th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
 We had heard there would be changes in the structure of the Burlington Chamber of Commerce Volunteer committees – they were to be reduced to two from the seven that were in place.
There were those with the view that the Volunteer groups had far too much clout and that changes were necessary.
In a statement put out today Terry Caddo is confirming that changes have been made and invited people to volunteer within the new structure.
He said:
 Burlington Chamber of Commerce President Terry Caddo “Thank you for your ongoing support and dedication to the Chamber and the local Burlington Community. We would like to express our gratitude and thank our volunteers from our current and historical committees, who have selflessly contributed their time to drive Chamber initiatives.
“As we implement our new strategic plan, there will be a few changes with the composition and structure of our committees moving forward.
“As we align with our strategic pillars of; Connecting Leaders, Active Advocacy and Creating Opportunities, we will be reducing the number of committees to the following:
Membership Experience and Engagement, and Policy and Advocacy. This restructuring will result in increased diversity within the two committees to allow for a greater representation of the Burlington business community.
The Burlington Chamber will be able to create impactful opportunities for our members, as we will be able to have committees that are truly reflective of our membership.
The Member Experience and Engagement committee will provide insight and support to the Burlington Chamber of Commerce on membership recruitment, engagement, and retention, and serve as the organizing centre for Chamber events. This committee will directly align with the strategic plan pillars: Connecting Leaders and Creating Opportunities.
Taskforces will be created within the committee as needed to help support with signature events such as the Business Excellence Awards, Wonder Women Conference, and the annual Golf Tournament.
The Policy and Advocacy committee will actively advocate and influence on local, regional, provincial, and federal issues and policy affecting Burlington businesses and will directly align with the Active Advocacy pillar. This committee will be the go-to source for business discussions in the community and be successful in creating a strong community of businesses and other agencies that support each other.
As we move forward, we ask that you complete the below application to participate in these new committees. We encourage current and past volunteers to re-apply. Please use the link below to complete your application.
Link: https://bit.ly/3BMHFjG.
 By Staff
August 8th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
 We all know how hot it is – and we might be running out of places we can visit where it is cool.
Apply COOL to the All Guilds annual exhibition that celebrates the guilds who make, learn, share, and teach at the Art Gallery of Burlington
There is the Burlington Fine Arts Association,
 Some work done by a member of the Burlington Sculptors and Carvers, Burlington Handweavers and Spinners Guild,
Latow Photographers Guild,
Burlington Potters Guild,
Burlington Hooking Craft Guild,
Burlington Sculptors and Carvers,
and the Digital Arts Guild of Burlington.
AGB Hours
Tuesday & Wednesday 10 AM – 9 PM
Thursday – Saturday 10 AM – 5 PM
Sunday & Monday CLOSED
By Pepper Parr
August 8th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Ward 6 Councillor Angelo Bentivegna has for the most part taken a different approach to looking at the city’s financial matters.
 He inevitably has questions – some which make it evident he doesn’t fully understand what the issue is.
But on a number of occasions he has asked THE critical question: How much ?
Some of that confusion with just what the issue is came out during the debate on the $39 million the city is going to spend building a new Skyway arena which is in ward 5.
“My question has to do with the incremental budget impact. On page six of the Staff report”. Bentivegna points to the “program and rental revenues of $100,000 which obviously becomes a credit to the whole process.”
Bentivegna is referring to revenues – the debate is about a capital cost and who is going to pay for the building.
Due a number of factors, set out in an accompanying article the tax payer is going to have to cover $2 million of that cost that will be raised by the issuing of a 15 year debenture that will carry a 4.5% interest rate.
In referring to the $100,000 incremental revenue. Bentivegna said he found that “number actually extremely low. From my experience being in hockey rinks. My calculations give me almost four and a half times that. Can you explain how we got to the $100,000, please?
A financial department staff member responds: “I’m not certain as the dollar quantum that was arrived at; it was probably done through our parks and recreation area. But that $100,000 was included in our multi year simulation and that number will be updated obviously as part of our proposed 2023 budget, if there are any changes or in increases to that.
 Bentivegna frequently requires an explanation from other members of Council. The $100,000 was a figure that was based on what the Skyway was bringing in before the decision was made to demolish the building. It was almost a place holder.
Bentivegna comes back: “Okay, so is it possible we can still get some sort of report even in the next days or whatever, from Parks and Rec as to how we got to that 100. So at least from my stand point, I could do some homework and email back with Parks and Rec so thank you for that answer.
Staff respond: “I believe the number that is shown there is just that it’s an incremental number. It’s not the total number. So this is in addition to revenue that we would have received for the old arena, the basic arena that was there before – so this is showing the difference, I believe. And so these numbers that are presented in the operating cost impacts, they will not impact the capital costs that we’re talking about today with respect to the tender award.
These are meant to be here to reflect the ongoing sort of net operating costs once the facility is built. And it’s really the difference between this sort of new facility which is expanded has other features, community rooms, walking track, etc. In comparison to what the old facility would have cost us.
 The increase in the cost of building a new Skyway arena stunned everyone – despite the rise Council decided to proceed taking the position that the prices were not going to come down in the near future
 That tax supported debt will show up on the tax bill once the budget for 2023 is set sometime after the election. Bentivegna isn’t about to give up: “I appreciate that. But at the end of the day, it’s the incremental budget impact will affect our multi year budget simulation and if we’re using numbers – we’re obviously looking forward here and I think the numbers, if you work from a 40 hour week, which is minimal, I come up with $450,000. (Which would be revenue once the arena is built, open, operating and generating revenue)
Bentivegna is stuck on the “multi year budget simulation moving forward, which is really what we’re looking at here is going to be affected. So I think we should know, really we should have known previously what those impacts would have been but I’ll go with the flow here.
 My second question is, “again in the report it talks about user obligations. Ice users were asked to participate as they have in the past many, many times and unfortunately have some commitments to the city and cannot participate in this project. My question is, again, maybe it’s a little premature but what is the commitment from the ice users presently with regards to Appleby in terms of when those numbers fall off the chart for debt, charges and how will that affect the tax supported number once those numbers fall off?
Staff respond: “With respect to affecting the tax numbers, they’ve all been included within the updated cost before you here today. The impact of the Appleby ice debt is taken into consider into consideration
Bentivegna comes back with: “I do want to remind us all that this was budgeted and approved. The reason why we’re here today is because we are over that budget and we have to determine how we are going to raise the $7 million shortfall.
“And I want to make sure that residents are aware that not all that money is going into tax supported dollars. We do have infrastructure renewal of $4.7 million. We do have a corporate accessibility of $400,000.
“So my question was originally the $2 million tax supported because this has been discussed for about four or five years now in terms of getting this project up and running now.
 Doesn’t have the look of a hockey arena – it will be much more than that: meeting rooms, walking track, pickle ball courts all placed in a park like setting that is just north of a 6 tower residential development that is north of Burloak park. A big, much needed boost to part of south eastern Burlington. “ I’m convinced that over time, with revenues of this particular Skyway arena and its amenities, it is going to be a first class facility. And I think this community is looking forward to having this open and it will support the fund the financing through the revenues that it will receive and I know we don’t always see that front row center but I am convinced of that.
So I will be supporting this today.
One could almost feel the sigh of relief.
Related news story:
Spending $39 million when you are $7 million short
By Staff
August 8th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
We are a little late with this notice – our apologies.
 The Repair Café will take place Tuesday – tomorrow at the Aldershot BIA on Plains Road – they are located on the north side of Plains Road – can’t miss it – there will be all kinds of white tents along the side of the road.
This event will be the last outdoor event of the year for the Repair Café.
They go indoors on September 10th at Port Nelson United Church.
This is also the end of the municipal funding they were able to get last year.
From this point forward the Café will rely on donations.
 Lawson Hunter – the guy who organizes the event with the help of a solid team admits that the donations route is a bad business model but that it is really good Community service.
Hours are:
By Pepper Parr
August 8th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
This is a long article. It focuses on one new arena but sets out how this council is going to spend to provide the infrastructure it thinks the city needs. See it as a cautionary tale.
Council met on Thursday to decide if they were going to go forward with the construction of a new Skyway arena in ward 5.
Referred to as the Skyway Arena – the structure in place now was taken out of commission WHEN because it no longer met the rules related to Freon.
The rink was small.
 The city did a lot of planning on this project – it was to be carbon free, solar panels on the roof, two regular size ice pads, pickle ball courts, community rooms and a walking track.
 The new Skyway arena will be to the north of the proposed 6 story Lakeside Plaza development. Not a word was said about the development plans during the decision to spend $37 million Way back when Councillor Paul Sharman was first elected he tried, in vain at the time, to get in touch with the owner of the plaza that had seen better days. It took a couple of years but eventually there was a development proposal that included eight structures.
During that time the Burloaks Park was completed – it is one of the better parks in the city that is seldom crowed that way Spencer Smith Park is.
The community amenities will include pickle ball courts, meeting rooms and a Walking Track.
This is the background behind the decision to spend twice as much as was originally planned on the Skyway arena.
The decision was to a contract for the construction of the new arena to Norlon Builders London Limited for $37,021,769.55
Staff asked that Council
Approve the revised total budget of $39,433,100 with revised financing proposed.
Authorize the additional funding of $2,000,000 from Tax Supported Debt; $403,000 from the Corporate Accessibility Implementation Project and $4,710,100 from the infrastructure renewal reserve fund.
 Significantly looking structure for an arena – walking track, community meeting rooms and pickle ball courts make it more of a community hub. Something badly needed in the community. What makes the development awkward is that it is a 1.4 km and a quarter away from the Bateman high school site that the city is in the process of buying – the public will not know much about the cost until sometime in September when the deal is expected to close.
The figure of $500 million was mentioned by Councillor Stolte, who was sanctioned by the Integrity Commissioner for revealing information that was discussed in a closed session of Council. The figure Stolte made public was, as she explained it, an approximation.
The Bateman and the Skyway arena are all about creating more in the way of space for a growth in population that will add three new communities to the city around the GO stations.
The Bateman and the Skyway development are in the south east sector
Lisa Kearns Councillor for ward 2 asked a procurement question, wanting to know how far into the process was the tender?
Staff had already decided who should be getting the job – all they needed was approval from Council to go forward.
 Jennifer Johnson on the left, listening to a resident when public feedback was being gathered about the residential plans. Jennifer Johnson, the staff member who oversaw the redevelopment of the WHICH ONE explained that three compliant bids and were ready to give the contract to Nolan for $37 million plus.
Given that Councillors are in the middle of an election Kearns wanted to be seen as being on top of everything said: “I’m looking to understand or hear what within the bid tender document and or agreed upon by those compliant bids would potentially help the city in a situation where the vendors work fell short or compliance with specs was not met. Those types of things. I want to understand what our insurance plans are, so to speak, so that we can be very much guaranteed that we have the best quality for our you know, the best quality when this work gets undertaken?
Johnson explained that “through our pre-qualification, we went through two rounds for general contractors where we asked them to qualify, electrical, mechanical and landscape because those were a very big component of the project. So they actually had to name the consultants they were using and had to close the bid with them. So through the pre-qualification process, we knew who those trades were, they were local trades, good trades. And basically, we pre-qualified five general contractors prior to even releasing the tender documents.
 Solar panels on the roof will cover a lot of the electricity costs? “Our specifications were very tight, because we tried our best to include designs that were all locally sourced. We also went through a review process with the consultants to ensure that all the equipment that we included in the design and specifications were still able to be sourced without you know, extended lead times. Contractors, are obligated to fulfill their contract under that lump sum.
The Skyway arena is in ward 5, Sharman territory. He said: Just slightly more than half of this cost is more than the city expected, but this is not a unique situation- that’s happening to everything. The question raised from time to time is should we wait for things to get better? The Staff report concludes that it’s going to be at least five years before the current pressure on costs decreases.This is not going to get better. If we don’t do it now.
It’ll just get worse and where does that leave us? It raises all sorts of concerns about improving the infrastructure in the city and increasing the infrastructure in the city. And we’ll have to cross that bridge when we come to it. But for now, I believe that we’re doing something that is badly needed by the city. We need the ice pads and the community rooms and the walking track.
Bateman won’t solve the ice pad problem, it won’t provide the walking track for the seniors who live in the immediate arena. And the pressure to build the pickle ball courts. So we’re going to be there. This is a wonderful addition to our recreation facilities in Burlington. Much needed, much appreciated. And we can just hope that cost isn’t going to be with us as a problem for ever.
Ward 4 Councillor Shawna Stolte took a much different position. “I’ve certainly brought up concerns before about the commitment to projects located 1.4 kilometers away from each other. We’ve made a huge commitment to debate and project and I just feel very uncomfortable with as Councillor Sherman has brought up the increasing cost of this which I know is realistic. I know that costs are going up across the country. We’re all aware of that. But the reality is too is that by utilizing the limited funds that we have available to us and the limited room that we have in our debt capacity limit, we’re committing most of our eggs into two baskets that are in the southeast corner of Burlington and I’m just not convinced that that’s an appropriate decision for us to be making at this time.
 That walking track and a community rooms would be nice. I think that we could scale this project back to ensure that we have the ice rinks and I think that we could make sure that we have transportation options available to seniors to get them up to the proposed community rooms that we hope to have at the maintenance project. And that would leave us some funding available to ensure that we are able to take care of other infrastructure projects and that we have other opportunities to use our debt capacity limit because there certainly are a lot of a lot of other projects around the city that need attention. I wasn’t in support of this before. I’m still not. I know that it would be a great project if money were no object, but money is an object and I won’t be able to support this today.
Ward 3 Councillor Rory Nisan said: “This is a higher price than we anticipated. No doubt about it. We’ve made the Skyway a priority for a long time. I believe we can still pursue upper level government funding and I’m sure we will but we can’t just bring everything to a standstill.
Ward 1 Councilor Kelvin Galbraith said: “I’m in support of this. I am part of the ice user group that knows there is a big need for another ice rink. It’s the ice users have been hurt for the last couple of years now that Skyway has been taken out of the inventory and replacing it with a full size rink is very important and will be very valuable to the ice user groups.
“I think the city needs more of these type of facilities and the longer we wait, the more expensive it will get. I think the time is now and I’m prepared to support this today.
 Lisa Kearns put her financial concern, chase down the details spin on the building of a new arena. Lisa Kearns joined what was now a majority of Council and said: “I think the whole conversation we’re having here is really reflective of the petulance that I’m starting to see around some of these really, really big ticket items. We know that we’ve already committed to prioritizing Skyway community centre and it feels a lot like this is one of those projects that we’re so far into that is difficult to turn around in, in response to escalating prices. Now, in my view, there are two things to look at here. One is of course the community value which we can’t put a price tag on it’s clear we do need more ice rinks. And in fact, we need the type of ice rinks that can host and hold tournaments and things of that nature so that we can really capitalize on those additional tourism dollars especially in light of having our municipal accommodation tax now ushered in so we do need to look at this really big picture.
“It’s one thing to award a tender. It’s another thing to award a tender with really strong terms that despite escalating costs still puts the city in the driver’s seat around ensuring the diligence used around those funds. Those are many types of causes like clawback clauses, there’s the dispute resolution, there’s payment terms certainty of terms limitations of liability. I want to be really really sure that when we are embarking on projects this high visibility and this high of a price tag we have covered all our bases.
 The table below shows the change to the Total Project Cost over the last three years. The lowest compliant bid has resulted in an increased construction cost to $36.7 million, including soft costs, and project contingency, the new total project cost is estimated at $39.4 million (including the parks revitalization component). This is an increase of 22% from the Class A, most recently completed in March 2022 or $7.1 million. It’s really important that we don’t have bumps along the way from today’s meeting where we’re proving this to when we can actually open the doors and welcome our residents across the city into a facility like this. I do want to also put on record and echo the comments of Councillor salty in that I am worried about our debt limit and our debt threshold. We still have a really big ticket in very similar proximity that hasn’t even had its capital costs disclose to the public yet. And that will no doubt require some support from our tax base and of course from our infrastructure renewal reserve fund so that fun will quickly be dwindling and it’s I’m hopeful that they’ll be a lot left for some of the other areas where we are really putting a focus on growth.
I am supporting this today with caution. And you know putting everyone involved in this in this project on notice that we want it to be an absolute and true success and we want it to be handled with the greatest level of diligence as possible.
 The project was short 7 million – they dug into reserves and pushed $2 million onto the backs of the taxpayers – by taking out a 15 years debenture at 4.5%. Don’t you wish you could get that interest from your bank Councillor Sharman added later in the meeting before the vote saying he recognized that his comments about money were made the way they were said because I think that it’s just a fact of life that cost is increasing. The arena had to be closed because the Freon system became illegal. Otherwise, we would have continued to have Skyway arena open, but it was grossly inadequate. It was built in the 60s. It was no longer up to standard in terms of installation and efficiency and effectiveness and it was undersized so it needed to go. So it’s going to be built. I think that’s one point with respect to money or No, I have a fairly reasonable understanding of money and my view of the world is very oriented towards future cash flow and where it’s coming from.
 Paul Sharman: “I have no concerns about money.” “I have no concerns about money, it will be resolved and especially in Parkland dedication, even if I do think it’s a bit rich it’s going to pay for a lot of stuff. We will still be building within the urban boundary. We will have the cash to pay for the facilities we need for another 70,000 people in the course of the next 30 years. And if anybody’s thinking differently than I ask you to talk to me, because planning and cash flow forecasting is an important way of thinking and I have no concerns about the money. And that’s about it for me. I’m delighted that we’re getting on with this.
Mayor Meed Ward decided it was her turn to take a kick at the can. “I am really looking forward to the ground-breaking in October. We know that we need more community facilities for our growing population period full stop – we are at capacity, we are bursting at the seams. This will be a facility that is used and loved by people from across Burlington the ice pads the community meeting space the parkour out front and also it will be really the future of how we build community facilities in Burlington. It will have solar panels on the roof. It will be a low carbon building, that is the future and we are not done yet. Our community amenities our parks or community centers have not kept up with the growth that we have seen in population in Burlington – this is one more opportunity to not only refresh what was there before, but expand it. The Walking Track is was really important.
It’s not so much about what we spend, it’s what we spend on and this there’s no question in my mind that this has been a priority. And so we just need to get on with it. We need to because the price isn’t gonna get any cheaper. And the cost escalation that we have seen is due to factors that are outside of the city’s control for sure and there’s no time like the present to get going.
This will put us at 11% debt ratio, our city imposed ratio is 12 and a half so we’re still well below that. The province imposes a debt ratio of 25%. Tax supported debt is only one of many sources of funding. We have reserved funds – revenue from users that will come back to us. I know the pickle ball courts will be very well used and played.
We have just increased and really level set the development charges that we will be charging for new growth and our Parkland dedication fees we were way behind, leaving money substantial amounts of money on the table.
I’m enthusiastic about finally getting on with this centre and we will mean we need more we’re not done we are not done yet with parks and community centres. Because we still have a lot more growth coming and we still have some catching up to do. And we have the money. We have the money to do it.
We do need a recorded vote on this. So I will turn it over to our clerk to take the recorded vote.
Councillor Bentivegna had some interesting questions and concerns about what was going to happen to the taxpayer. His views will be covered in a seperate article later in the week.
Councillor stuck to her guns; the only Council member to talk about fiscal prudence.
City Manager Tim Commisso sat in on the meeting – didn’t say a word
 By Pepper Parr
August 7th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
I almost forgot.
Thursday of last week was the eighth anniversary of the flood.
 At what point did the vehicle just stop. It didn’t get a mention anywhere.
Lot’s of talk about Climate Change – which is basically the message the gods were sending us in 2014
I wonder how many people are still recovering from that disaster – and how many lives were changed forever because of the flood that devastated some neighbourhoods and left others bone dry.
|
|
