 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.”
By Pepper Parr
October 12th 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Fortunately the candidates for Mayor event at Port Nelson United Church last night was a Q&A.
None of the candidates were up to a debate – they had things to say but nothing in the way of political positions and just what they would do to take the city through the next four years.
 Candidates: Anne Marsden, Jim Kerr, Marianne Meed Ward and Jim Rieck The incumbent, Mayor Marianne Meed Ward would have given people a reason for being in the room were there an actual give and take debate with moderators that were able to follow the script
The Roseland Community Organization gets the credit for sponsoring the event. The turnout was respectable.
The Gazette videographed both this event and the Q&A with the ward 4 candidates – they at least had something credible to say.
The full debate can be seen HERE
By Pepper Parr
October 12, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Scuttlebutt out of city hall is that Chris Glen, Director of Parks, Recreation and Culture is planning to retire and that Emily Cote will be running the show until the search for a replacement takes place.
 Chris Glenn in his “uniform” at an opening event. Glen came into the job as an interim himself more than 6 years ago.
 Chris Glenn, retiring as Director of Parks Recreation and Culture He was given a chance to show what he could do when Covid19 took over everything – he was pressed to his limit to keep whatever he could open while the province kept making that harder and harder for him to do.
There was a solid month where he was turning on a dime every day helping those who rented city space for recreation purposes, finding a way to give people things they could that would get them out doors.
Glenn knew that the lockdowns were hurting everyone – his job was to look for solutions.
Glenn confirmed the news: “Good morning Yes, it is true and has been communicated internally. My last day as Director will be October 31st. Thx Chris.”
By Pepper Parr
October 12th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The Roseland Community Organization sponsored a Q&A with the candidates running for city Council in ward 4
 Candidates for ward 4 council seat: Olivia Duke, Shawna Stolte, Tony Brecknock and Eden Wood. The event took place in the Roseland Room at Port Nelson United Church.
The audience was respectable. You could find a seat but you had to look for one.
There were no great revelations, no huge surprises.
Comment on the event will come later in the day – we wanted to get the webcast up for the public to see for themselves what took place.
Link to the webcast in HERE
By Pepper Parr
October 11th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
We now know a little bit more about why and how the Nelson Quarry decided they were not going to be able to work with JART Joint Administrative and Review Tribunal.
Our source told us that the agencies that have to sign off on the application to extend the life of the current quarry and seek a permit to mine additional space had done their job.
The delay was at the JART – Joint Administrative Review and Tribunal – level where files were just not moving.
Move the cursor over the graphic to enlarge the type
 JART – Joint Administrative Review and Tribunal flow chart We were advised that there were additional problems, and some concerns over the support the JART was getting from outside professional groups.
 The main quarry that is reaching the end of its productive days. Once the pumps are shut off the quarry will fill and become a large lake. Apparently the JART wanted to or has brought in an Air Quality Group from California where air quality issues are a lot different than they are in Ontario; further quarry mining isn’t something that happens in California.
Nelson reached the point where they became concerned just how well the JART process was going to work
 An artists rendering of what they believe the mined out quarry cab be turned into when the pit is flooded. In order to get their situation before the Ontario Land Tribunal the company had to ask the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forests to send the application to the OLT for adjudication.
Nelson Quarry has for some time told the public they they wanted to give the quarry to the city and help them turn it into a massive park.
 The shaded areas are land on which the Nelson Aggregate people want to be given an additional license. The green area will be a home for the Jefferson Salamander. That didn’t go down all that well with the people in rural Burlington, ward 3 for the most part; they see the country as their domain and don’t really want to share it.
Nelson wanted to have a park operator in place to run it when it became a park and to do the prep work that has to be done to take xxx ha of space and turn it into a park.
Once the park operator is in place the city no longer has a seat at the table when it come to the managing of the program and planning the activities.
By Pepper Parr
October 11th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The libraries are not what they used to be.
It is a lot more than books.
 An afternoon sunset settling on the walls of the New Street Library. Burlington has an exceptionally good system, the product of good leadership backed up by a Board of Directors that is creative, not afraid of new ideas and fully aware of the role they play in the education and welfare of the wider community.
They are currently looking for new people to join the Board.
If you are interested in helping shape the future of public library service in our community as a Library Board Trustee they would like to hear from you.
This fall, the City of Burlington will invite applications for a four-year term on the Library Board, to start in January 2023. We are hosting a series of information nights for anyone interested in applying.
September 29th at Central Branch
October 17th at Tansley Woods Branch
October 20th via Zoom
What Library Board Members Do
 Lita Barrie, Chief Administrative Officer, Burlington Library The Library Board makes sure that library services are delivered efficiently and effectively – with an eye to the future. Trustees must be able to work towards a vision and think in broad, future-oriented terms while maintaining a commitment to move vision to reality.
Under the Public Libraries Act, the Board:
provides a comprehensive and efficient public library service that reflects the community’s needs
employs and evaluates the ongoing performance of the Chief Executive Officer
determines and adopts written policies to govern the operation and programs of the library
establishes and monitors long range goals and objectives for Burlington Public Library
understands the library’s programs and needs of the community in relation to the library
works with the CEO to prepare a budget to carry out the library’s goals and objectives and presents this to City Council
is aware of local and other laws that affect libraries and play a role in initiating and supporting beneficial library legislation
adheres to the Public Libraries Act, its regulations, and legislation
members attend all Board meetings, and committee meetings as assigned, along with public meetings and events
ensures accurate public records concerning finances, property, and annual reports are on file at the library
may interact with provincial library agencies. Reports regularly to governing officials and the general public.
promotes and advocates the value of public libraries in the Burlington community.
 (l-r): Shawna Stolte, Catharine Benzie, Jennifer Tarnawski, Bianca Tse, Brian Kenny, Lindsay Zalot, Nawaz Noormohamed. Absent: Jason Manayathu What you need to know about applying
The Library does not accept applications for the Library Board.
The City of Burlington will advertise in local papers for our Library Board vacancies. Applications are submitted to the City.
The City will post an online application form closer to the deadline this fall after the municipal election.
If you want to know more about the Library Board, we encourage you to attend one of our information nights. If you are unable to attend a session, you can contact BPL CEO, Lita Barrie, to learn more about our board at 905.639.3611 ext 1103 or barriel@bpl.on.ca
By Pepper Parr
October 11th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The number of really bad boards of Non Profit organizations in the city is disturbing.
Far too many of the boards don’t know what Board of Director responsibility are and make foolish mistakes.
Community Development Halton(CDH) has had its share of Board of Director problems where people were really not fit for the job and the responsibility involved.
CDH has taken a step to help resolve the problem.
They are sponsoring a 90 minute Zoom course on being a Director of a Non profit organization. Roll the cursor over the type to enlarge it for reading
The granting agencies, municipalities, Trillium, Halton Region, United Way – should make it a requirement that every director appointed has taken the course and passed a written exam.
When non profit boards are advertising for volunteers having taken a course should be a prerequisite – and don’t accept that they will take the course later – they seldom do.
Making training a prerequisite is saying that the organization is serious and wants only people that are serious and have been properly trained.
By Staff
October 10th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
After a comfortable day with family and friends – things begin to move a little more briskly as we get into the week.
 The Roseland Community Organization is hold two political events. Not debates – question and answer sessions.
The first will be with the candidates for the ward 4 council seat, it will start at 7 pm, the second, which will take place after the ward 4 candidates at approximately 8:15 – will be for the five candidates who want to be the next Mayor.
These five have been heard before at the Chamber of Commerce event – nothing new or all that interesting from the four candidates.
Mayor Marianne Meed Ward stuck to her positions – nothing new – given that she is so far ahead of what the other four had to say she just has to keep her head down to cruise to victory on the 24th.
 However, in the world of politics – anything can happen. Rick Goldring blew his brains out at a debate in 2018 when he made a dumb comment that Meed Ward took and made it work for her.
The events will be moderated by Rick Burgess, a onetime candidate himself for the Office of Mayor.
The event will take place in the Roseland Room at the Port Nelson United Church where space is kind of limited.
The Gazette will be videographing the event and running it on our Facebook page. As soon as it is up, we will publish the link. Expect to see it close to noon on Wednesday. It will remain in the archives.
By Pepper Parr
October 10th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The Regional level of government is not something most people understand. It plays a pivotal role in the bigger picture: where is the growth going to take place and how do we get and pay for the infrastructure that will be needed ?
 The four municipalities that make up the Regional government: the people that run the water supply system, move the waste and run the Medical Office of Health – a major accomplishment during the pandemic. They also fund the police service Water, waste removal, police service, some of the roads, planning, social service, Medical Officer of Health – something we came to appreciate during the pandemic.
Were there to be a major health issue, or a level of civic unrest the decision making would come from the Region.
Burlington, Oakville, Milton and Halton Hills all have representation on the Regional Council.
The Region Chair is elected by the voters in each of the municipalities.
In order to win an election to be Regional Chair a person has to have relatively high public recognition and access to a lot of money – campaigning region wide is expensive. Regional chairs usually come from the ranks of municipal politicians who has served on Regional Council.
Gary Carr has been the Regional Chair since 2006. Jane McKenna, the former MPP for Burlington announced she was running as Regional Chair, then Andrea Grebenc announced she was also running.
Carr then announced he was going to seek re-election.
Grebenc is busy electioneering.
McKenna has a sign in the back of a pickup truck that is being see throughout the Region
Carr and McKenna have been no shows all too often which moves Grebenc to ask: “If my opponents don’t bother to show up to ask for your vote, why would you expect them to show up when you need help?” She has shown up at the three more detail here and has said she “will continue to show up again and again for you when I am in office. I just need your vote.”
 Andrea Grebenc serving as Chair of the Halton District School Board trustees Andrea Grebenc was a Halton District School Board trustee and served as trustee on two occasions.
She ran for the provincial Liberal Nomination WHEN.She was not chosen.
As a school board trustee and Chair of the HDSB she became the go to person for media who wanted comments on the issues that prevailed during the worst of the pandemic.
She brought a change to the way the trustees worked with their constituents.
Recently there were three events that were held to focus on the race for Regional Chair
An event in Nassagaweya drew just over 80 people. Grebenc was the only candidate to show up. Carr sent regrets; McKenna did not respond to the invitation. Grebenc got to “chime in on every question”.
 Andrea Grebenc: believes she can be a competent leader at the Regional level. The Oakville ward 3 all-candidates debate at Oakville Trafalgar drew an audience of between 250 and 300 people. Grebenc got, who was on her own, had five minutes with the mic and then to answer audience questions. Gary sent regrets. Jane did not respond to the invitation.
Later in the same week the debate at the QEPCCC and organized by the Bronte village residents association using the Black Box theatre was standing room only and they added a video link to the rehearsal hall for overflow which was well used. There I had a 2-minute opening, then 3 questions were chosen from those submitted before the event and a 2-minute closing statement. I was not given the questions in advance. Gary sent regrets and Jane declined.
These are the only events so far at which Regional Chair candidates have been invited to speak/debate.
It wasn’t as if Carr and McKenna were not aware of the event. Carr did not show up at the QEPCCC (Queen Elizabeth Park Community and Cultural Centre) event 4 years ago. The Oakville Ward 3 event is a long-standing election cycle event that has been taking place since at least 2010..
 Regional Chair incumbent Gary Carr on the campaign trail. Gary Carr has a very high public profile – when it comes to name recognition – he wins hand down. He has served as an MP in Ottawa, just for one short term, prior to that he has wan MPP, and Speaker of the Legislature for some time.
In 2006 he ran for the Office of Regional Chair and has been there every since.
When it comes to how well Carr will serve the Region if he is re-elected would be a guess at this point.
Did he want the job or was he persuaded to take it rather than let McKenna win?
 Jane McKenna at a Burlington event. Many think chaos would rule were McKenna to be elected. Those same people think some of the excellent staff at the Region would move on rather than have to work with McKenna.
Grebenc could be a risk. Her work at the school board level was excellent. She put the HDSB on the map.
Having never done much at the Regional government level she would have to rely heavily on staff. She would be fortunate to have the regional talent available to her.
Grebenc is not a walking ego. She is attentive, listens and is the demographic that is going to lead the Region in to several decades of very hard decision making.
The electorate has a choice:
between an eager, intelligent younger person who doesn’t have much of the experience needed. However, it has to be noted that the school board is a regional operation so it is not as if Grebenc doesn’t know the lay of the land.
Or McKenna, a junior provincial Cabinet Minister with no hands on experience at the provincial level and a questionable reputation for delivering for the people of Burlington.
 Jane McKenna chatting with a group of women at a Joseph Brant Hospital event. A question as well as to why a sitting member of the provincial government would choose to give up the seat and take a chance at a different level of government when re-election to the legislature was all but assured.
There is a link between the McKenna decision to run for Regional Chair and the Carr decision to run for re-election.
Gary Carr has delivered in his time as Chair. Halton is a safe community and it has room to grow; where the growth takes place is the big question. It will call for a lot of work and there is the sense, at least to this reporter, that Gary Carr may not want to take on all that work at this point in his career. He recently moved from rural Milton to downtown Burlington.
The job of Regional Chair is an important one; think about who should be doing that job given the issues that are out there.
Relayed news background:
A bigger look at Gary Carr
 By Pepper Parr
October 10th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
 People were taking produce like this off the land soon after settling. At a time when there is not much that is certain and where war lords are unsheathing their swords everywhere we in Canada can be Thankful for all that we have.
We are a people that have learned how to share, how to compromise and care for those who need help.
 We do things like this in Burlington The line from that hymn that goes: “Come ye thankful people come …” comes to mind and seems to appropriate to me.
Are there readers out there who can share the words that our Indigenous, Muslim and diverse community friends would use instead.
In the recent past Denis Gibbons took this picture for the Gazette. It speaks for us
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