 By Pepper Parr
October 18th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
We asked each of the candidates in each ward to tell us about the impact running a campaign for public office has had on them and how that experience shaped their thinking
 Jennifer talking with a voter at a Meet & Greet Jennifer Hounslow, running in ward 3 against incumbent Rory Nisan said “Hearing from people while canvassing – the good and the bad” adding that “there are so many people in this ward who don’t feel heard – they feel ignored.”
“This was one of the driving forces in me running in this election, and it has been validating, by others who feel the same and just want to be heard, and to have a personal response back from their Councillor.
“That realization validated my candidacy, and has driven me to work hard these past few months.
“It made me decide what kind of campaign I wanted to have – which was focused on the people. I have been spending my time pounding pavement daily and knocking on doors talking with ward 3 citizens.
“I took meetings with people and reached out to the North of the ward where they felt largely ignored. I chose to do a grassroots campaign that was focused on meeting people, listening to them and really hearing their concerns, and explaining my thoughts on the current state of the ward and the city, and where I wanted to make improvements.
“It made me want to be accessible to the masses so I chose multiple meet and greets and other group information sessions so that I could interact and collaborate with the citizens of this ward.
“I only wish there had been a debate so I could have proven that I was the best candidate.
 Jennifer Hounslow making a point during an interview with the Gazette “This realization and the type of campaign I chose has allowed me to get in front of as many people personally as I can . I had volunteers working with me, but every time we canvassed, I was there so that if anyone wanted to speak to me they could.
“Every interaction was genuine, and every lawn sign I have out there was earned – I got approval from the homeowner to put my sign on their lawn. I am happy with how my campaign has gone and I have worked hard for this, and I hope the ward agrees.”
On October 24th, the citizens of ward 3 will troop to the polls and cast their ballots.
The Gazette reached out to Nisan to arrange an interview. There was no response.
We will report later this week on what Nisan has been able to do for the people of ward 3
By Rick Greenspoon
October 17th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
We asked candidates who were responding to media what their experience has been like during the past three or four months they have been going door to door seeking support.
 Candidate Rick Greenspoon during an interview with the Gazette “The largest impact on me personally over the last 2 1/2 months of going door to door is the tremendous amount of work that is required to be an effective city councillor.
“From reading and understanding important reports to finding a way to implement these items requires a “big picture” mentality. Putting the effort to learn about the issues that I have heard about, and finding ways to handle them in a timely and effective matter, requires a persistent work ethic.
“Continuing contact with all the voters seems to be a consistent topic from those who I have met, and getting information out to the them in a timely manner would be greatly appreciated.
“Transparency and accountability are also issues that most concern the people I have met. I have been encouraged by the support from so many, and that encouragement has helped me in this “journey” I embarked on.”
The current ward Councillor Angelo Bentevegna has decided he would not do interviews with us.
Related media:
Angelo doesn’t like the Gazette
Rick Greenspoon: Local business man with solid experience on complex issues
 By Staff
October 17th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing issued the following statement to commemorate Local Government Week from October 16 – 22, 2022:
 Steve Clark Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs “Ontario’s 444 municipalities are critical partners of the provincial government, with many responsibilities and essential services which our communities rely on. Municipalities also help our government tackle complex issues—from building housing and supporting growth to reducing traffic gridlock and improving transit networks.
Local Government Week gives us an opportunity to reflect on these vital services and the responsibility that rests with local governments. You can use this week to learn about the many ways to get involved with your local government, including attending town hall meetings or having your say in a local consultation.
I know first-hand how important local government is, having first become involved at the age of 22, when I was elected as Mayor of Brockville. Later, I was the President of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario and the Chief Administrative Officer for the Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands. These were great opportunities to learn from others, listen to different perspectives, and work to address the unique challenges municipalities face.
As the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, I have applied this experience to build strong relationships with our municipal partners and help Ontario communities thrive.
This year, during Local Government Week, I encourage everyone to learn more about the crucial role local government plays in making Ontario the best place to live, work, and prosper.”
The Gazette urges the people of Burlington to write the Minister directly and tell him we can manage our city – if the provincial government would just let us do just that.
The Minister gets email at: Steve.Clark@pc.ola.org
If enough mail arrives he just might do something |
|
By Pepper Parr
October 17th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
What we are hearing and what we are not hearing out on the street.
Katelyn Goodwin has been working the streets of the six wards asking people who they think will be elected as members of council October 24th and what the issues were for them in their ward and for the city.
 The ADI Group wants to put these three towers on their site at Station West in Aldershot. The green patch would be parkland,. Development, development, development – most weren’t opposed to growth but not in the downtown core.
There were concerns about the condition of the sidewalks, mostly from seniors. Hardly a word, so far, on taxes.
Our survey is small, the gender balance, so far is pretty even.
The age spread covered that 35 to 49; 50 to 65 and those over 65 fairly evenly.
Goodwin commented after her first tour through ward 2 that: “Almost everyone I spoke to is going with Lisa Kearns and Marianne Meed Ward. Over development, high-rise numbers, and traffic and transportation seem to be the general concerns in ward 2.
A sampling of the comments from people who were asked who they favoured and what the issues were for them in their ward and for the city overall.
Some of the
Ward #2
Male
50s
Lisa Kearns
This man’s biggest city concern is physical spending costs. He wants the government to not spend anymore than they need to on small things such as paths, art on walkways and buildings, etc.
He is voting
Ward #2
Male
50s
Preference for mayor is Marianne Meed Ward
This man’s ward concerns are business, getting around the area, and the high-rise buildings going up in front of the lake when people paid for the lake view
His city concerns are transportation, public transit and being able to get around the city, traffic, and more buildings going up while less streets are being created.
He is voting
Ward #1
Female
70s
Preference for mayor is Marianne Meed Ward
This lady would like everyone in the city to be able to live equally and would like living costs to be more affordable
She is voting
 The developer wants to tear down the Waterfront Hotel and erect these two towers – both over 30 storeys Ward #3
Male
60s
Roy Nisan
A huge concern of this man’s is the rising crime rate, mainly coming from Toronto to here. He wasn’t fond of the legalization of more drugs, claiming they contribute to the rise in crime rates around the area he lives in
Is unsure if he will vote or not
Ward #2
Female
40s
Lisa Kearns
Marianne Meed Ward
This lady’s ward concern is the amount of traffic downtown
Her city concern is the transportation. Would like it to be better.
Ward #2
Female
50s
Marianne Meed Ward for mayor
This lady’s city concern is the transportation and the parking
She is voting
Ward #2
Male
70s
Lisa Kearns
Marianne Meed Ward
This elderly gentleman is happy to live in the city and the area he is in
He is voting
Ward #2
Female
50s
Lisa Kearns
Marianne Meed Ward
This lady’s concern is over development in the downtown area, and stated in her words ‘high-rises do not belong in front of the lake’.
She is voting
Ward #2
Male,
50s
This man wished to not share the candidate he voted for his ward, or choice for mayor but his main ward concern was overdevelopment and traffic, while his city concern was transportation
He has voted
Ward #2
Female
70s
This lady’s concerns for her ward are over development of downtown, and the amounts, size, and placements of high-rises. She said that she realizes the city is fighting a losing battle with the government when it comes to those concerns.
She is not voting
Ward #2
Female
70s
Lisa Kearns
Marianne Meed Ward
This lady’s ward concern is the over development and high-rise going up everywhere. Her city concern is likewise the number of buildings that are being built. She reads the Burlington Gazette.
She is voting
Katelyn Goodwin is in her graduating year at Sheridan College. She is thinking she would like to try doing a graphic novel. She is prompt, understands whayt it isa to get to work on time and to look for situations that interest people and then write about them.
 By Anne Marsden
October 17th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
OPINION
The following email is the first of several that I received during the election
Dear Anne Marsden,
Hi! I am a student in Grade 5 at Alton Village Public School located in Burlington on Steeplechase Drive. In school we have been assigned a project where we learn about the people running for mayor. My group has been assigned you to research about. I have some questions for you, I am wondering what your main goal for our city is? How would it impact us? One last question, what is your slogan or phrase that you really want to catch people’s attention with?
Also Ms. Marsden, something I would like for the city is for pollution to stop or at least to go down a bit. Hope to hear from you soon. Have a good day and good luck with the election!
From, Isabelle AVPS Student
My Reply:
Dear Isabella, Lovely to hear from you and to learn of your interest in my plans for Burlington as Mayor.
 Anne Marsden, candidate for Mayor of Burlington at a Chamber of Commerce event My Main Goal for our city is that I can lead Council into making the very best decisions for all the families and businesses in Burlington. I will need to ensure that the decisions made are inclusive of ALL families not just the families that like what I like.
It will ensure that your family can provide what you need, such as putting healthy food on the table every day, have a home that is comfortable in terms of heating and if you get sick there is a place to go to help you get better. The streets are safe in terms of no speeding cars etc. and you have lots of places to go for walks or bike rides in your community and enjoy the wonderful splash pads and playgrounds that we have throughout Burlington.
My slogan is “Anne Marsden the Mayor Burlington Needs”.
I hate pollution too Isabella. When I was little I lived in a town in England where there was lots of pollution as we all had coal fires. We also had a big chemical company where everyone worked.
Some days the pollution was so bad you could not see a hand in front of you and ammonia leaks rotted the nylons our moms wore.
After a lot of people got sick it was decided to do something about it. The last time I visited my home town there was no pollution and I could see Roseberry Topping part of the Yorkshire Moors
 Roseberry Topping part of the Yorkshire Moors I promise to you and the rest of the Halton students I will do my very best to accomplish what they did in my home town – Billingham Co. Durham – so we can see and be glad about the beauty that surrounds us. Nothing is better than a bike ride or walk when you can breathe in fresh air and see the beautiful gardens and parks we have in Burlington.
I thought you might like this photo that I have of when I was two that I put my slogan on. It was taken in Billingham riding my pedal car on the street and I adapted it for this election – we would only see maybe one or two cars on that street a day.
I have also attached a photo of me now so if you see me you and stop and say Hi.
 Many people had to experience huge sacrifices to have a country where the people decide who the leaders are going to be. The third photo is a poster I designed and a friend created to encourage people to vote. It is the right thing to do to vote as a lot of people had to do very difficult things to ensure we could choose who we wanted for Mayor.
Thank you and I hope you get a good mark for your project because you asked all the important questions of me.
Regards Anne Marsden
Anne Marsden is a candidate for Mayor who wants to get her message out to not only the people who can vote but to the student population as well.
An advertisement paid for by the Committee to elect Anne Marsden Mayor of Burlington.
 By Pepper Parr
October 17th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
OPINION
There they were – all five of them – even the elusive Walter Tuck.
They were taking part in the Burlington Chamber of Commerce Meet the Candidate event during which they were given the opportunity to respond to questions that reflected the interests of the Chamber of Commerce members.
Not a debate but a chance to hear what they had to say on a number of issues that ranged from getting rid of the Red Tape, making the city a better place, helping people, making better use of the unused commercial space in the city. There was nothing really new or exciting
 In the second event featuring the candidates for Mayor for: Anne Marsden on the left, Jim Kerr, Marianne Meed Ward and Steve Reike Jim Kerr said he would like to see the parking lot spaces in some of the malls used for housing. “We’re already doing that at the Appleby Mall” explained Meed Ward.
Everyone had comments on the appeals that were being made to the Ontario Land Tribunal – we learned that Meed Ward met with the provincial Attorney General to talk through some options that would lessen the impact of what Meed Ward called an unelected body that is preventing municipalities from doing the responsible planning she said they are quite capable of doing if given the opportunity.
Frequently the other candidates would say “as Marianne said” – she had become the source for the information they needed to make a case for electing them to office.
 Marianne Meed Ward owned the room during the Chamber of Commerce Mayoralty candidate event. No one got anywhere near her in terms of setting out what was going to get done. The Mayor knew what she wanted: “Send me back to city hall” and when she gets there she will continue with the plans for Affordable Housing, admitting that the city cannot do this on their own – federal and provincial support will be needed. She wants to see inclusionary zoning, easier said than done, and pointed out that there are applications in the pipeline that amount to 27,000 housing units.
Getting them through the pipeline is the challenge and then getting shovels in the ground when the building permits have been issued will not happen overnight..
The economy we are in and the tight money policies that surround everything these days does not mean that housing will sudden;y appear.
The developers control the rate at which housing is built – the risk is all theirs and they tend to be cautious people.
Well before the event was over it was clear that Marianne Meed Ward was the only candidate with the experience and sense of vision the city needs,
Don’t take that to mean that we would support Meed Ward were there a candidate who could do the job. Unfortunately – the next Mayor that will be sworn in sometime in December is going to be the Mayor we have now. That is not necessarily good news.
We will return to Meed Ward’s strengths and weaknesses at another time.
The purpose with this article is to look at what the other choices were: Steve Reike, a visionary, a big picture man, an idea person and an entrepreneur. And also a climate action man. He offered bromides. There was no plan. His hope seemed to be that maybe Meed Ward will listen to him and aid him in his quest.
 Walter Tuck took part in the Chamber of Commerce event but did not show up for the Roseland Community Organization event, Walter Tuck, no signs, no literature to speak of, no web site. He does have a family pedigree that has his great grandfather, his grandfather and his father Serving the community; Tuck feels it was his turn to show up – reminding people that Tuck Public School was named after the family.
Anne Marsden has earned the right to present herself as a candidate; she has been a vigorous, direct, and at times too detailed a delegator for the comfort of many – but she is often right.
Unfortunately she is not listened to very often.
What we think can be expected of Marsden in this election is that she will put a dent in the plurality Meed Ward earned in 2018.
If Marsden lowers the Meed Ward plurality by more than 15% – she can say that she won the election.
Would a big dent in the Meed Ward plurality result in the setting of a new course for Meed Ward – only time will tell
Jim Kerr, the man who appeared out of nowhere, was for a short period of time, a bit of a hope for those who do not want to see Meed Ward returned to office.
If what we heard from Kerr at the Chamber of Commerce event is any indication what he would do as Mayor – it was a major disappointment.
There is no campaign phone number, there is a web site, and there is a business card with a QR code on it.
 Jim Kerr looked good on paper. Jim Kerr is a candidate who isn’t all that interested in actually campaigning.
There is a campaign manager who kept saying they have yet to ramp up the campaign and that they can still win – with the election 20 days away.
When the Roseland Community Organization held a Q&A for the Mayoralty candidates it wasn’t much different – Walter Tuck didn’t show up and Jim Kerr added nothing to the very little he had said in the past.
Why he bothered to file nomination papers is something we will never know.
As the event was coming to a close I turned to the person on my right and said:” You’ve just heard from the next Mayor of Burlington.”
The other four candidates didn’t lay a glove on the lady.
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 Denis Gibbons
October 16th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Ward 6 Councillor Angelo Bentivegna was out campaigning when I contacted him for an interviewer.
I explained I was doing the story for both The Bay Observer and Burlington Gazette.
“Do you have to do it for the Burlington Gazette? ” he asked.
When I said “yes” Bentivegna politely declined.
 Bentivegna began to ask questions during Council meetings once he found his bearings and was familiar with the issues on the agenda “My website has all of my accomplishments,” he said.
Bentivegna said the reason he declined was something from the past he did not want to get into.
Gazette publisher Pepper Parr pointed out that “when people speak of transparency and accountability that usually means one responds to accredited media and defends the decisions they make.”
Parr said he is “unaware of “something from the past” that Bentivegna does not want to “get into” and welcomes a conversation with the ward 6 candidate” who is facing some pretty stiff competition from Rick Greenspoon.
Parr added: “To say that everything is on a candidate’s web site and that will have to do – is just not, by any measure, accountable or transparent.
“If that is the best Angelo Bentivegna can do – this should be his one and only term on Councillor” said Parr.
The Gazette will do a follow up on just what Bentivegna did during his first term of office.
Denis Gibbons, a former Editor of the Burlington Post, was was brought in specifically to do interviews of current Council members
By Staff
October 16th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The people of Burlington have begun to cast their ballots – both online and at the advance polling stations.
The Gazette is getting reports of problems with voting online and the surprising number of people who are taking advantage of the advance polls.
One reader reported a “usability” review/check performed on his vote and wondered if “the server been overwhelmed with users wishing to cast their votes? “
The problem seemed to be affecting a number of residents of different ages, and experience with computers and online services.
 Voting at the Seniors’ Centre was brisk and went smoothly Things were quite different at the Advance Polls. Reports from voting at the Seniors’ Centre had people lining up both inside and in the voting area.
The staff greeter mentioned that the line had been steady all morning and into the afternoon. One voter said it took a mere five minutes to get in to vote at 2:15 in the after. He thought that overall Advance Voting went pretty smoothly.
The Gazette has a reporter out on the streets interviewing people in each of the wards.
The city has yet to release any data on the number of people who have voted on line and what the turnout was at the Advance Poll locations.
Residents have heard what the City Clerk thought of the process and the provincial legislation he has to work with.
 Kevin Arjoon, City Clerk is responsible for the operation of the municipal election. Mr Arjoon has certainly chosen a novel way to express himself.
Online voting will be available until until October. 20 at https://evoteburlington.ca .
The Advance polls will be open again on:
Tuesday, Oct. 18, 10am-8pm
Vote at any one of the following locations.
Appleby Ice Centre, 1201 Appleby Line
Burlington Seniors’ Centre, 2285 New Street
Tansley Woods Community Centre. 1996 Itabashi Way
To vote, bring your Voter Information Letter and one piece of identification showing your name and address.
Acceptable identification includes:
Ontario Driver’s License
Ontario Health Card (if it includes your name and address)
Ontario Photo Card
Mortgage, lease or rental agreement
Insurance policy
Credit card statement
Bill for hydro, water, gas, telephone, internet
By Staff
October 15th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Advance Polls are open;
 Saturday, Oct. 15, 11am-5pm
Tuesday, Oct. 18, 10am-8pm
Vote at any one of the following locations.
Appleby Ice Centre, 1201 Appleby Line
Burlington Seniors’ Centre, 2285 New Street
Tansley Woods Community Centre. 1996 Itabashi Way
To vote, bring your Voter Information Letter and one piece of identification showing your name and address.
Acceptable identification includes:
Ontario Driver’s License
Ontario Health Card (if it includes your name and address)
Ontario Photo Card
Mortgage, lease or rental agreement
Insurance policy
Credit card statement
Bill for hydro, water, gas, telephone, internet
You can register and vote online until October. 20 by going to https://evoteburlington.ca .
|
By Pepper Parr
October 14th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
City Clerk Kevin Arjoon posted a comment on Twitter that many thought was inappropriate for a City Clerk who is the Senior Administrative staff member who reports directly to the City Manager and now has the designation of a Director as well.
Arjoon appeared to be trying to explain why some people were getting multiple voting letters.
A tweet sent out by City Clerk Kevin Arjoon. The Gazette received the following from Suzanne Vukosavljevic, who is part of the Communications group at city hall.
“It is possible voters may receive multiple voter Information letters for varying reasons. This is not unique to the Burlington municipal election unfortunately. All Ontario municipal clerks receive the voters list from the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC).
All municipalities will be able to use the Elections Ontario List of Electors for the next municipal election in 2026. Enabling legislation has been passed in the Municipal Elections Act, and it comes into effect, as of January 1, 2023.
“Voters may receive extra voter information letters, if the duplicate entry form MPAC was not caught due to a combination of discrepancies.
If a resident receives multiple voter information letters, they should use the one that matches their identification when they go to their voting location. Voters are only allowed to vote once, even if they received extra voter information letters. Reminder to voters do not vote twice, it is an offence under the Act and it can be linked back to the individual.
“The City of Burlington’s City Clerk can have his team remove duplicates in the system wherever possible in the system. The Elections team is following up on all requests that come through to their office.
If a resident has any questions or are experiencing any issues, they can email election@burlington.ca. They can also call 905-335-7777 x8683 (VOTE) Monday to Friday between 8:45 a.m. and 8 p.m. from Oct. 11 to Oct. 20. This phone line is also available on Saturday, Oct. 15 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 16 between noon and 5 p.m.
 By Staff
October 14th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
A call came in earlier today from a regular reader who lives close to the Martha Street – Lakeshore Road intersection – the site of the ADI Group Nautique development that has people in the area very upset with the noise and disruption.
 Architects rendering of the Nautique, currently under construction at the intersection of Martha Street and Lakeshore Road. The ADI Group was advised by the Home Construction Regulatory Authority (HCRA), that a Notice was being issued that they were subject to a possible license revoction
The caller mentioned that there has been no work done since the Thanksgiving holiday – at that time there were some 30 construction workers hurriedly putting things away.
Since then nothing – which pleases the neighbours.
The following was published on Storeys, a news web site that publishes content about the construction/development industries.
The Home Construction Regulatory Authority (HCRA), confirmed today that ASI is appealing the regulatory action.
In a release dated September 12, Adi, which has operated as a builder in the Greater Toronto Area for 15 years, states an appeal was filed on Thursday, September 8, emphasizing their “disappointment” in what they say has been an abrupt and uncommunicative course of action from the provincial regulator.
“The process undertaken by the HCRA in issuing the Notice has been incredibly disappointing, cursory and arbitrary. Typically, a Regulator is required to exercise their statutory powers with fairness and openness to those under investigation,” said Adi President Tariq Adi, in an emailed statement to STOREYS.
“In our case, we were given no notice of the impending proposal, no understanding of the grounds or documentation for their allegations, and no opportunity to respond or clarify issues before HCRA made the decision to issue a Notice that contained very serious allegations and would have very serious consequences for Adi. Adi Developments’ reputational damage due to this lack of due process and hasty move by the HCRA has been severe.”
 The ADI Group brothers Tariq and Saud In an emailed response to STOREYS, the HCRA stated, “The Home Construction Regulatory Authority is committed to protecting consumers and providing resources to help Ontarians.
The HCRA had made it clear that bad actors in the industry will face severe consequences as a result of the measures introduced by the Ontario government.”
On August 25, the HCRA issued a Notice of Proposal to revoke the building licenses of the nine builder/developer entities operating under the Adi Development Umbrella Group, making an exception for three in-progress developments, including the Nautique, a 26-storey condo located on Burlington’s lakeshore.
 The ADI site at Lakeshore and Martha in May of 2021. Under grounds for the proposal, the HCRA alleges that, after selling units in the Nautique between 2015 – 2020, Adi then sought to cancel existing purchase agreements, citing financing issues. The builder then allegedly failed to return consumer deposits, falsified documentation provided to the HCRA, and demonstrated they were relisting the units for a higher purchase price while refusing to issue deposit refunds until a unit was resold.
As a result, “Adi Development Group has demonstrated, through the conduct of its related entities and interested persons, that its corporations should not be licenced builders or vendors under the NHCLA,” states the regulator’s filing.
Revocation or refusal to renew a licence are the most severe consequences for a builder/vendor. Revoking a licence prevents a developer from legally operating in the new home construction sector. Should a builder continue to illegally operate without a licence, the regulator can take additional enforcement steps such as
Compliance Orders;
Restraining Orders;
Freeze Orders; and
Provincial Offences Act charges
In a statement regarding their appeal, Adi refutes the allegations. “The suggestion that Adi acted unethically or that it provided incomplete or false information to the HCRA as part of this process is ludicrous as well as defamatory,” states the release.
They go on to say the HCRA’s proposal was actually spurred by steps taken by the builder to “ensure the ongoing success and completion of their 26-storey condominium Lakeshore project,” citing increased project costs due to the pandemic and “inflationary pressures”. According to Adi, the cost to build has ballooned to $43M, a 35% increase from the original budget.
“Adi was forced to seek additional financing and to cancel purchase agreements in order to secure the new financing,” states the release.
 Construction crane being put in place Adi says it consulted with the HCRA in regards to the situation, and that cancelled purchase agreements were done so lawfully and within the contractual terms and regulations set out by Tarion, as they gave purchasers “alternative options.” The builder refutes the allegations made by the HCRA that original purchasers who agreed to forfeit their purchase would only receive a deposit refund once the unit had been resold and a new deposit obtained.
“At no point did Adi tie the return of deposits to the resale of the units, as HCRA alleged. It shocked Adi that this proposal was the path taken by HCRA in respect of the Lakeshore development without prior notice or discussion and that it included eight other unrelated projects within the Adi group of companies in the regulatory net,” reads their release.
As well, writes the builder, “In a demonstration of good faith and in order to mitigate the impact on purchasers,” it offered former purchasers who were not interested in a new purchase agreement an additional 6% interest on their deposits. Adi also says that for the “majority of purchase agreement holders who did wish to move forward,” they were offered to repurchase their units at 20% below market prices, and were also given $10,000 in “décor dollars” as an incentive.
The builder says they have been working with Lakeshore purchasers on their deposit returns, including interest, claiming that as of September 7, 85% have been returned, totalling more than $9M.
“We have cooperated fully with the HCRA up to this point and remain willing and hopeful that despite the appeal we can reach an expedited resolution on all issues with the HCRA so that we can complete the Lakeshore and other projects,” states Tariq. “Many builders out there require guidance from HCRA in order to get through this, not to have their licences pulled. We feel we have been unfairly singled out.”
Adi’s case will now go to the Licence Appeal Tribunal (LAT) for a case conference to reach a resolution, with a hearing to be held if one isn’t reached. If the LAT decision upholds the HCRA’s decision and the licensee does not appeal the decision in Division Court, then the licence is revoked.
By Staff
October 14th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
 Luke McEacheran, candidate ward 3 This is the kind of Meet and Greet people like to attend.
Luke McEachern candidate for the ward 3 council seat has booked the Navy Hall on Industrial Road from 6pm to 9pm today.
Refreshments and sandwiches will be supplied. If they wish a drink they may purchase it at Navy Hall’s bar, separate from his event but available.
By Staff
October 13th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
 A solid majority of Burlington’s municipal candidates have expressed support for transit initiatives in a newly published survey conducted by Burlington for Accessible, Sustainable Transit (BFAST). The survey results are available on BFAST’s website at https://bfast.ca.
Sixteen of the 24 candidates for all municipal positions answered the six-question survey, including all incumbents except Ward 5 Councillor Paul Sharman.
 Jim Young with Sue Connor at a community event. “I was pleasantly surprised by the general support for public transit in Burlington,” said survey author Jim Young. “It will be up to us to hold the elected officials to their survey promises.
“I am also encouraged by the number of respondents who were aware of and advocating for making all Burlington Transit free and who grasped the importance of provincial operating funding and the impact of transit on congestion and GHG reduction.”
The survey asked questions about transit funding, taxi services, Covid relief funding, citizen involvement and transit accessibility.
BFAST is a volunteer citizens’ organization that promotes public transit for its environmental and social benefits. It regularly issues surveys on transit issues to candidates in Burlington’s municipal elections.
While the candidates are on side – there are problems and concerns at Transit. The best transit operator in the province Sue Conner is reported to be leaving the city at the end of the year. It will be impossible for the city to find someone of her talent and stature in the industry.
Add to that the problems in determining just what public transit services will be using in terms of equipment.
 Paul Sharman at a Bfast event.  Mayor Marianne Meed Ward accepting a new diesel bus paid for with federal funding. Diesel is on its way out – but as little as 19 months ago the city was accepting new diesel buses at an occasion where the Mayor was dancing in front of the bus with her council colleagues masked and standing in apparently solemn agreement.
The transit industry is still researching the benefits of electrical over hydrogen.
Connors who will do a lot of work at CUTRIC – Canadian Urban Transit Research – they know talent when they see it
As far Paul Sharman – he never was a transit enthusiast – saw all the problems but was never able to offer much in the way of solutions.
By Pepper Parr
October 13th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Robert Radway knew in 2018 that his career as a teacher was not going to grow much more at that point than it had in his 20 + years as an educator.
In the public school board system teachers grow into department heads, then maybe vice principals. They take courses to earn an appointment as a principal.
“Usually” explained Radway “when you get interviewed that is a sign that you will be appointed. Radway was interviewed after the first two applications and was never appointed. When he applied a third time and wasn’t even interviewed Radway knew the growth as an educator had come to a halt.
 Robert Radway – at his station in a Tim Hortons coffee shop He thought seriously about running in ward 1 in 2018 but when he saw 10+ candidates he decided he would wait another four years and then decide if it was time to make a move.
He announced very early in the game that he was going to be a candidate and was out knocking on doors. His nomination papers were filed in May.
Radway has a very engaging outgoing personality. He wears his empathy on his sleeve and certainly leaves you with the impression that he is a people person. Born in the High Park community in Toronto, family moved to Burlington where he attended Nelson high school.
Family life was not all that stable and for a period of time it was just Robert and his sisters who were living on what he called Students Welfare. He has moved 29 times; English was not his first language – something you would not be aware of when you listen to him speak.
He would appear to be a person who has overcome a lot of adversity.
 Radway has made better communications with the people of Aldershot his biggest promise. He and his sister were put in a basement apartment in the Walkers Line – New Street part of the city and ended up going to Nelson High School because it was closest. After graduating from Nelson Radway went to Carleton University where he studied history and social studies then taught at Appleby College for a year. After that he went on to Niagara College in the United States where he earned a Teaching Certificate.
His first classroom assignment was Pineland Public, a school he attended as a student, and then on to Central where he started in the elementary school and moved on to teaching in the high school.
He was the president of the Teacher’s Union at Central and worked in the department of Phys Ed, taught English as a second language as well
He was always a big advocate for students and was the school liaison with the Student Council. .
Some of his students are offering to help put up election signs.
His early understanding of just what a city councillor does was embarrassingly limited. He thought he would be able to teach high school history and attend council meetings.
He learned that just wasn’t possible and decided that he would apply for a leave of absence that would start at the beginning of the first semester which would be early February.
Between being sworn in early in December and the beginning of his leave of absence he has some vacation time and the assurance from his peers at the school board that he will not miss council duties.
Teachers can usually get a two year leave of absence and an additional two years as well. “By that time” explains Radway, “I will have learned that my new career will be in municipal politics.
 Radway is a note taker – he writes it all down to “remind what I told people I would do.” He has some solid old time Tory supporters who meet with him once a week. He has a team of nine people working with him – along with a significant number of students who just show up.
Early life for the Radway family was not simple – there was a time when he did not have a solid command of the English language.
Radway met the woman he married while he was at Nelson and she was at Central. She is a home maker. They have three boys; one in grade 9, one in grade 10 and the other back at Aldershot High School doing an upgrade course on diesel engines.
He admits that he has a lot to learn but has clear ideas on how he wants to communicate with his constituents believing that they are going to teach him much of what he needs to learn
He has decided that if he is elected he will create local community groups he can meet with regularly and learn what is needed where and at the same time be able to explain what he is doing at city hall.
He knows that public transit is essential – and expensive – so where should the service operate and what should the schedule look like ? He wants the different communities to explain those needs to him and said he will make certain that transit gets to know what is needed in Aldershot.
 Striving to ensure that the person he was talking was getting the point Radway used every gesture he had. Radway asked if he could take a pass on commenting on the city decision to purchase the Bateman High School property.” I am still a Board of Education employee and they prefer that staff not take part in public issues that relate directly to the Board.”
He does have views on the budget – learn what people want and tell people how much money the city has. If there isn’t enough money to pay for all the services people want – he intends to listen and find out if they will put up with tax increases or go along with service cuts.
He thinks the bike lane improvements being put in place on the western end of Plains Road now are a great idea. “I’m excited – but want to know why it took so long.”
Assuming Radway gets to city hall he will learn why things take so long soon enough.
 The object of Radway campaigning was a Greek Aldershot resident who wanted to hear what he had to say. The #1 ward level issue for Radway – improve communications – people are not happy with the way communicating is done he said.
One the matter of communicating Radway wishes his opponent “would stop telling people I am going to be a full time teacher and a full time Councillor. I have made my position known – I will take a leave of absence and be a full time city and Regional councillor if I am elected.”.
The #1 city level issue for Radway for the first year is – getting to know his fellow Council members and getting to know the senior city staff he will be working with and tackling the creating of a budget in what are very difficult and complex times.
 By Pepper Parr
October 13th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The beauty of a small, poorly funded, independent, accredited new source is that we can publish useful information that other media, dependent on advertising they get from the city, won’t touch,
The most recent tidbit is this one.
A couple who asked not to be named advised us that they received received two different Voter Information Letters including two different registration codes to vote online.
Example:
Robert Norman Axxxxx Registration Code XYZ……
R Axxxxx. Registration Code ABC…..
“We could have voted twice! I am assuming others got the same kind of notice too.
“On September 28, I emailed contactbt@burlington.ca
but have not heard back.”
It doesn’t have to be this way and should not be this way – somewhere in the organization someone is not doing what has to be done to prevent things like this. And when they do happen – mistakes get made – they do nothing about it. That impacts on the credibility of city hall.
The people who sent us the information asked: “Please do not use my name or email address if you choose to publish this information.” People in Burlington are actually afraid of the city administration their taxes pay for.
 By Staff
October 13th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
To ensure Halton residents continue to have quick and easy access to the latest crime information in their area, the Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) has launched an enhanced version of its Crime Mapping tool on its www.haltonpolice.ca website.
Accessible to PC and mobile users under the News and Updates tab, the latest Crime Mapping tool offers an at-a-glance snapshot of events by crime type across the region. Key features of the user-friendly tool include:
“Providing reliable, timely data to the communities we serve is one of our top priorities”, said Halton Regional Police Chief, Stephen Tanner. “An informed public is a safer public. Sharing the scope and type of crime taking place in our region in this way enables residents and visitors to play an active role in keeping themselves and their families safe.”
Crime mapping data displayed through the tool include police-dispatched calls for homicide, attempted murder, offensive weapons, drug-related offences, assault, robbery, break and enter, property damage, theft, and various traffic-related offences such as impaired driving. Some occurrences, such as intimate partner violence, are not included on the map.
Data is also stripped of exact addresses and other identifying information. Instead, occurrences are pinned to intersections in the vicinity of where they took place to give people an overall snapshot of crime in the area they are searching.
It is important to note that map data is based on dispatched calls, not completed investigations, therefore incident codes are subject to change.
Additional information about the tool is available on the Crime Mapping landing page.
Link to the maps is HERE
The maps and the filters available are a little on the tricky side. If you stick with it you will be able to zone in on your neighbourhood.
 By Amy Shindler
October 12th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
If you’re thinking about making the switch to an electric car, you’re not alone. More and more people are ditching their gas-guzzlers in favor of battery-powered vehicles, and for good reason. Electric cars are better for the environment, they’re cheaper to operate and maintain, and they’re just plain fun to drive.
If you live in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area, you’re in luck—there are plenty of great places to buy an electric car. In this blog post, we’ll give you a few tips on how to find the perfect electric car for your needs and budget. Keep reading to learn more!
Do Your Research
It’s important to do your research before you start shopping for an electric car. Not all electric cars are created equal, and you’ll want to find one that fits your specific needs and budget. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you research different electric cars:
Price:
Electric cars can be expensive, so it’s important to set a budget before you start shopping. Keep in mind that there may be government incentives available to help offset the cost of an electric car. You should also be prepared and show up at the dealership with a pre approved car loan to show that you’re ready to go with your financing. This shows the dealer that you’re serious and ready to negotiate.
Range:
How far can the car go on a single charge? If you have a long commute or frequently take road trips, you’ll want to make sure the car has a good range.
Charging time:
How long does it take to charge the battery? If you plan on charging overnight, this won’t be as big of a concern. But if you need to charge during the day, you’ll want a car with a relatively quick charging time.
 Some brands have a full range of models. Size:
Do you need a compact car or an SUV? Some electric cars are only available in one body style, so make sure to find one that meets your needs.
Test Drive BEFORE You Buy
Once you’ve done your research and narrowed down your options, it’s time for a test drive! This is the best way to see if an electric car is right for you. Pay attention to how the car feels when you’re behind the wheel—is it nimble and responsive, or does it feel sluggish? Does it have enough power for your needs? And most importantly, do you enjoy driving it?
If possible, try to test drive a few different models so that you can compare them side by side. This will help you make an informed decision about which car is right for you
 The battery is the critical part of electric cars; also the most expensive. Know what you are getting if you buy a used electric car Consider Used Cars
While electric cars are becoming increasingly popular, they can still be quite expensive. If you’re looking to save money on an electric car, consider buying a used one. There are a few things to keep in mind when buying a used electric car, but with a little research, you can find a great deal on a car that will save you money in the long run.
One thing to keep in mind is the battery life. Electric car batteries typically last for about 10 years, so if you’re buying a used car, make sure to find out how old the battery is. You should also inquire about the car’s charging infrastructure.
Some older electric cars may not be compatible with newer chargers, so it’s important to make sure that you’ll be able to charge your car before making a purchase. With a little bit of research, you can find a great deal on a used electric car that will save you money in the long run.
Best Electric Cars to Consider
If you’re in the market for an electric car, there are a few reliable options to consider.
Tesla Model S
The first is the Tesla Model S. Tesla is a leader in the electric car industry, and the Model S is their flagship vehicle. It has a range of over 200 miles and can go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just over 2 seconds.
Chevy Bolt EV
The second option is the Chevy Bolt EV. The Bolt EV has a range of over 230 miles and is one of the most affordable electric cars on the market.
 The Nisan Leaf – a popular choice Nissan Leaf
Lastly, the Nissan Leaf is a reliable and affordable option with a range of 150 miles. Electric cars are becoming more and more popular every year, so if you’re in the market for a new car, be sure to consider one of these reliable options.
Electric cars are becoming more popular every day, and there are plenty of great places to buy them in the GTA. Do your research before you start shopping so that you know what features are important to you and what kind of budget you’re working with. And don’t forget to take each car out for a spin before making your final decision!
 By Staff
October 12th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
There was a virtual meeting that took place on October 4th that got hacked and ended very suddenly.
The police are investigating.
Fortunately, much of the broadcast was saved and has been made public.
 Screen shot of the Zoom call that took place – it was hacked before it ended. It is lengthy – fascinating if you care about this kind of thing and the people in Millcroft certainly do.
What is really interesting is how Mayor Meed Ward acquitted herself
Councillors Bentivegna and Nisan were on the call; Bentivegna asked questions and gave long answers, some of which did more harm than good.
The Mayor did a superb job – she understood the issues and was able to give solid answers and make the complex much less complex.
The Gazette has its issues with much of what this Mayor does but on the Millcroft file she has it down pat.
Credit to her for taking on the task.
If you can’t find something you like on Netflix – give this an hour of your time. Well worth it. Click HERE for the link
In the announcement from MAD: “For those who were unable to attend the October 4 meeting with MAD and the City of Burlington, we include herein a video of the meeting. Regional Chair Gary Carr, Mayor Marianne Meed Ward, and Councillors Angelo Bentivegna and Rory Nisan fielded questions about the application and its status. MAD also spoke about its plan to oppose the application at the Ontario Land Tribunal.
Due to an unanticipated interruption, many questions went unanswered. Such questions will be answered in a subsequent recording, which MAD will release.
MAD is officially launching its fundraising campaign, requiring approximately $150,000 for lawyers, planners, and experts. Please give generously to help us maintain the golf course as open space.
 By Staff
October 12th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Online voting began on Tuesday and will be available until October 20th.
Advance polls will be open October 15th to 20th.
Vote early in Burlington’s 2022 municipal election: Vote online Oct. 11 – 20 or at an advance poll, Oct. 15 and 18
In-person voting will also take place on election day, Oct. 24.
Online Voting
Online voting takes place between Oct. 11 to Oct 20. To vote online, eligible voters will first need to register. Online voting and registration open on Oct. 11 at 10 a.m. Registration closes on Oct. 20 at 6 p.m., and online voting ends on Oct. 20 at 8 p.m.
To register and vote online:
1. Find your Voter Information Letter – these letters are mailed to voters who are on the Voters List, starting at the end of September.
2. Visit the online voting registration portal – the link is listed on your Voter Information Letter.
3. Enter the required information when prompted. Note: you will be asked to provide the registration code located on your Voter Information Letter.
4. Submit the form.
5. If the information you provide matches our records, you will be sent a link and a voting PIN, either by email or SMS text message.
6. Use this link and PIN to vote online.
If you did not receive a Voter Information Letter, check to make sure you are on the Voters List at myvoteburlington.ca. Updates and additions to the Voters List can be made at any branch of the Burlington Public Library or select City pool facilities up to Oct. 22. More information is available at myvoteburlington.ca.
Advance Polls
Advance voting is available at three locations across the city on Oct. 15 and 18. Eligible voters can vote at any one of the advance voting locations.
Saturday, Oct. 15, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the following locations:
Appleby Ice Centre Community Room 1201 Appleby Line
Burlington Seniors’ Centre Auditoriums 1 & 2 2285 New St.
Tansley Woods Community Centre Community Room 1 1996 Itabashi Way
Tuesday, Oct. 18, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the following locations:
Appleby Ice Centre Community Room 1201 Appleby Line
Burlington Seniors’ Centre Auditoriums 1 & 2 2285 New St.
Tansley Woods Community Centre Community Room 1 1996 Itabashi Way
If you are voting in person, please bring your Voter Information Letter and one piece of identification that has your name and address on it. Photo identification is not required. See a list of accepted forms of identification at myvoteburlington.ca.
By Pepper Parr
October 12th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Leaf collection – not something we have heard very much about during this election.
But the leaves still fall and they have to be collected. The three week Loose Leaf Collection Program Begins Monday, Nov. 14
 The2022 loose leaf collection zones. Pick up starts November 14th.
Residents are encouraged to check the leaf collection schedule and zone map. Each collection zone will have only one pick-up. Loose-leaves placed after the zone start date will not be collected.
Residents planning on using the service are reminded that this program is weather dependent. Freezing rain or snow can cause delays or even cancel the program. Always be prepared to bag your leaves for Halton Region’s Yard Waste Pick-up or mulch them to help your lawns and gardens grow.
If the collection is delayed or cancelled due to weather or other circumstances, residents can call 905-335-7777 for updated information. Updates will also be posted on burlington.ca/leafcollection as well as the City’s social media channels.
To ensure the safety of collection crews and avoid damaging equipment, please keep the loose-leaf piles free of debris and sticks. Leaves mixed with debris and waste will not be collected. Please help prevent flooding by keeping catch basins and ditches clear of leaves.
 This crew will probably not be clearing the leaves from your property. They were working along New Street when this picture was taken. To ensure a successful pick-up, residents can:
• Rake leaves to the edge of the curb or roadway in a loose pile no more than two days before your pick-up date
• Do not place leaves in bike lanes or on sidewalks or pathways
• Prevent flooding by not placing leaves over storm drains
• Remove basketball nets, cars and other obstructions from the road during pick-up dates
• Avoid placing garbage bags, bins, blue boxes or green carts on top of loose-leaf piles
After the collection program is complete, any remaining leaves should be placed in yard-waste bags for curb side collection by Halton Region.
As a greener alternative, residents can mulch their leaves with their lawn mower to help feed the soil for the spring.
 Enrico Scalera, Director of Roads, Parks and Forestry Enrico Scalera, Director of Roads, Parks and Forestry adds: “In order to increase the availability for residents to use the City’s loose-leaf collection service, we have consolidated the pickup schedule to three weeks and moved this year’s collection dates back one week in the hope that more leaves can be collected before the winter weather arrives.
“Please monitor the weather as your collection date approaches. If snow or freezing rain is forecasted, be prepared to bag or mulch your leaves. Mulching leaves with your mower is the most environmentally friendly option to add nutrients and naturally fertilize your lawn.”
|
|
