 By Staff
May17th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The City of Burlington’s updated draft Community Engagement Charter is now ready for review before being finalized.
 The team heading up this project report that they have used public feedback on the original Charter to create this draft and that they have engaged with a variety of groups and individuals.
City staff, Members of Council, community groups, local businesses, Council appointed Committees, faith-based groups, youth, newcomers and past members of the Charter Action Team have been involved.
Citizens have an opportunity to review some of the proposed changes or updates based on what we heard before reviewing the draft document.
Public Engagement Opportunities
There will be three in-person public sessions and one online session.
Session 1: Tuesday, June 4, Burlington Seniors’ Centre, 2285 New St. 7 to 9 p.m. register
Session 2: Tuesday, June 11, Tansley Woods Community Centre, 1996 Itabashi Way, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. register
Session 3: Wednesday, June 12. Online. 7 to 9 p.m. register
Session 4: Wednesday, June 19, Tansley Woods Community Centre, 1996 Itabashi Way, 7 to 9 p.m. All are welcomed; however, this session is in partnership with the Halton Multicultural Council (HMC). HMC will provide translation services for anyone who requests the service. Anyone registering for this session will be asked which language they would prefer. register
Check out the quick poll and tell us what word (Resident, Citizen or Community Member) should be used in the Engagement Charter and Framework.
During the engagement, we heard a lot of great ideas on how to make engagement better in Burlington. Take a quick survey and tell us your top 5 ideas you think the City should consider.
 By Staff
May 16th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
 The Art Gallery staff probably does not encourage climbing all over this piece of art – wonder if those children were told why the beams are where they are? City Hall might be closed; you are going to have to pay to park your vehicle in the Beachway and at Lowville Par on the Victoria Day Weekend – BUT the AGB is open Monday, May 20 from 10 am – 5:00 pm and will host some fun family programming.
We hope to see you there, and wish everyone a safe and happy holiday weekend.
By Staff
May 16th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
After losing their Executive Director Food4Kids Halton put together a search team and have found the person they believe will lead the organization very effectively.
 Jennifer Sully-Ferraro appointed Executive Director of Food4 Kids Jennifer Sully-Ferraro brings to the role over 15 years of leadership experience in the non-profit sector, focused on addressing poverty and homelessness. She has been instrumental in building partnerships across community groups, governmental agencies, and private sector entities to foster innovative solutions and impactful programs.
“Jennifer’s commitment to social change and her proven track record in non-profit leadership will be invaluable to Food4Kids Halton as we continue our mission to fight child hunger,” said Terri-Lynn Puckerin, Chair of the Board. “Her innovative approach and ability to unite various stakeholders will enhance our efforts to provide accessible, nutritious food to children across our region.”
Sully-Ferraro has been the Senior Director of Programs and Client Care at Evangel Hall Mission for the past eight years. Before that, she was the assistant director of The Open Door. Jennifer is a graduate of McMaster University and holds an MA in Public Policy and Administration from Toronto Metropolitan University. She is the 2023 recipient of the Ontario Non-Profit Housing Association’s Sybil Frenette Award for Outstanding Leadership.
 “Food is a human right and I’m thrilled to join Food4Kids Halton and contribute to the great work that is already being done. Ensuring that every child has access to nutritious food is not just a job—it’s a commitment to fostering healthier futures,” Sully-Ferraro stated regarding her new role. “We know that food insecurity is becoming a reality faced by more and more families every day, and filling the gap when schools are closed is a vital role.”
As Executive Director, Sully-Ferraro aims to expand the reach and deepen the impact of Food4Kids Halton, ensuring that no child in the region goes hungry.
About Food4Kids Halton:
Food4Kids Halton provides packages of healthy food for elementary school students with limited or no access to food each weekend and throughout the summer. Last year, Food4KidsHalton distributed more than 41,000 food packages to over 1,000 children at 100 schools in Burlington, Halton Hills, Milton and Oakville. A Food4Kids bag typically contains breakfast, lunch and snacks for the weekend consisting of fruits, vegetables, bread and other ready to eat easy open products. Our work is made possible by collaborating with schools, volunteers, and community partners. Food4Kids Halton is one of six Chapters across Ontario supporting more than 4,000 children. Visit www.food4kidshalton.ca.
 By Staff
May 16th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
From European settlers arriving in the late 18th century, to the present day of people who decide to call Burlington their home—there are a lot of reasons why people over the centuries decided to settle here.
 The Museums of Burlington is hoping to hear your immigration stories! Whether it be yourself, or your family’s journey from generations ago, our goal is to collect a holistic oral history of our community. We recognize that there is a wealth of history to be explored that make up our collective heritage.
We invite those who are interested in participating to fill out a quick form. We thank everyone who will apply, but please note we will only be contacting those whose stories are selected for the project.
Click HERE to take part in the project.
If you have any questions regarding the project, please do not hesitate to email Lynna at lynna.nguyen@burlington.ca.
 By Pepper Parr
May 16th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
City sharing tree care tips ahead of May long weekend
The long weekend ahead will see many residents spending time in their yards cleaning up from winter and preparing their lawns and gardens for the summer. The City is sharing tips with residents who are planning on doing tree maintenance in their yard or in front of their home this planting season.
 Consistent pruning and proper care produces streets that have this kind of canopy. Tree maintenance and care
It is against the Public Tree By-law (068-2013) to do any landscaping around the trunk of any City tree that includes large rocks, masonry and tree-surrounds. Stones and bricks placed in and around the base of trees can impact their ability to absorb oxygen and water. This can be damaging to the health of the tree.
“Volcano mulching”, where there is a thick layer of soil in contact with the tree trunk, is prohibited. This can cause bark decay and a root problem called root girdling. The proper way to mulch is in more of a doughnut shape so the tree trunk has room to breathe. The depth of the mulch should be about 5 cm, or slightly less for soils that are poorly drained, like clay.
Storing materials or equipment in the area of a City tree, either above ground or below ground (the root zone), requires an injury permit from the City.
It is against the Public Tree By-law (068-2013) to use any part of any public tree to secure or support an object or structure. This includes nailing, pasting or attaching a sign or poster to a City tree.
Tree pruning
- Pruning or removing a City tree is only to be performed by City staff or a private contractor under the direction of Burlington’s Roads, Parks and Forestry Department. Regular pruning of City trees is done on a seven-year cycle to promote public safety and tree health. For information about the City’s 2024 street tree pruning program, visit: 2024 Street Tree Pruning Program
- Refrain from pruning oak trees until November 1st to minimize the potential spread of oak wilt, a damaging fungal pathogen that can kill oak trees in a number of weeks.
To help guide residents on proper steps to take when conducting work around a City or private tree, the City has created a Guide to Tree Protection. Information about the City’s Public and Private Tree By-law is available at burlington.ca/trees
By Staff
May 15th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Readers: Save Saturday, May 25 for the biggest book sale of the year! Our super-sized sale will be in Centennial Hall at Central Branch from 9am to 5pm.
Since the runaway success of our September book sale, we have continued our in-depth review of our print, DVD, and CD collections, and we’re thrilled to offer another amazing shopping opportunity to Burlington book lovers.
 “We always want to ensure our collections are relevant and desirable to our community,” says Cody Vanderslot, Digital Resources & Collections Manager. “Our print collection continues to be hugely popular, so it’s vital for us to keep it in top shape.”
With a physical collection of over 350,000 books, DVDs, CDs, and magazines, continuous maintenance of the Library’s collection is a big project. Vanderslot and his team look at data such as the last date borrowed and the number of times an item has been loaned since it joined the library’s collection. Other factors like relevance, currency, condition, historic value, representation, and maintaining a complete series are also considered.
“We use a data-driven approach to ensure we keep what our customers want and remove what they don’t,” says Vanderslot. “All of this work behind the scenes makes our collections more searchable and enjoyable to browse so readers can find what they’re looking for.”
The main purpose of collection maintenance is to improve our collections for the community, not to remove items. Since the sale last fall, we have added over 12,000 new items, not including digital items. Many of the removed items were extra copies of titles we continue to own and outdated resources that have been replaced with more current information.
So Many Books!
With summer approaching, it’s a great time to stock up on leisure reads to toss in your beach bag. We hear there will be plenty of romance, mysteries, science-fiction, westerns, graphic novels, adult fiction and non-fiction, and picture books!
The sale includes around 5,000 paperbacks, hardcovers, large-type, picture books, board books, DVDs, CDs, audiobooks, and magazines for all ages. Everything will be on display for browsing in Centennial Hall and the tables will be restocked throughout the day.
Shoppers can buy a sturdy Books Make Me Happy zippered canvas book bag at the sale and stuff it full of sale items for $15—one price for the bag and the books.
Alternately, items are priced individually for those toting their own bags:
- Print books: $1
- All audio-visual items (DVDs, CDs, audiobooks): $2 each or 3 for $5
- Magazines: 4 for $1
The Library accepts payment by cash, debit, and credit. The book sale is all about building a library collection that Burlington wants. Book sale proceeds will go back into BPL’s collection budget.
By Staff
May 15th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The Ontario government is cracking down on impaired driving by introducing
Legislation that, if passed, would impose stiffer penalties for those who drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs – including a lifetime licence suspension for those convicted of impaired driving causing death.
 After the ignition interlock device is installed in your vehicle, you will need to blow into the device, located near the driver’s seat, before your vehicle will start. If the device detects a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) over the preset limit of 0.02 the vehicle won’t start. If you are under the preset limit, the vehicle will start and you will be asked to provide breath samples at random times while the vehicle is running. If you don’t provide a sample or if your BAC exceeds the limit, the device will: issue a warning record the event activate specific alarm systems (for example, lights flashing, horn honking) until you turn off the ignition “Everyone deserves to return home to their loved ones safely at the end of the day,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation. “Too many families in Ontario have had their lives torn apart by the careless and shameful actions of impaired drivers. That’s why our government is introducing tough new measures, including lifetime licence suspensions, that will protect families and keep our communities safe.”
Additionally, the government will require anyone convicted of impaired driving to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle and undergo mandatory remedial education and treatment for first and second-time alcohol and drug-related offences respectively.
“Mothers Against Drunk Driving commends the Ontario government for taking steps to make roads safer and hold impaired drivers accountable,” said Steve Sullivan, CEO of MADD Canada. “Despite progress, too many people are still making the choice to drive impaired, and we need to ensure sanctions hold drivers accountable while focusing on reducing recidivism.”
The proposed legislation would also increase immediate roadside licence suspensions for first and second-time alcohol and drug-related offences and clarify police authority to stop vehicles and/or administer sobriety tests for drivers on or off the highway.
In response to increasing instances of cannabis-impaired driving, the government will also work to provide additional tools and training to help police officers detect drug-impaired driving and launch a province-wide campaign to highlight the dangers of drug-impaired driving, with a focus on cannabis and young drivers.
The facts set out just how serious the DUI is:
In Ontario, one in three roadway fatalities involves impaired driving.
A 2022 roadside survey found that one in five drivers tested positive for drugs, alcohol, or both.
The percentage of drivers killed while under the influence of cannabis more than doubled between 2012 and 2020.
Ignition interlocks are in-car alcohol breath screening devices that prevent the vehicle’s engine from starting if it detects alcohol in the driver’s system.
For alcohol and drug-related offences, the province is proposing to increase the first and second-time roadside licence suspensions from three and seven days to seven and 14 days, respectively.
To keep communities safe, the Ontario government is also cracking down on auto theft by introducing legislation that, if passed, would suspend driver’s licences for people convicted of the crime. •
By Pepper Parr
May 15th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
UPDATE: “We are in the process of reviewing the complaint you filed ( which means it is not yet accepted as a complaint) we do not provide status updates or a “timetable” in terms of this process. If we require anything further from you, we will let you know and will otherwise be in touch with you in due course.” Sincerely Principles Integrity Janice Atwood and Jeffrey A. Abrams, co-principals.
Anne Marsden has an issue that she feels very strongly about.
 Anne Marsden delegating with her husband at her side. The feelings were so strong that she researched, pulled together the documents that were needed and filed a complaint with the City’s Integrity Commissioner: Principle Integrity.
Filing a complaint does not mean that it will be dealt with.
The Integrity Commissioner reaches out to the party the complaint is against, hears what they have to say and decides if they should proceed.
Marsden tells us that she has been told her complaint will be dealt with.
Marsden now wants to know – When?
And has asked the Integrity Commissioner to “please advise what we can expect in terms of a timetable to deal with our complaint confirmed as received by Principles integrity. Is there a file number or person we should be addressing, if so would you please advise what that it is.
“We would appreciate a timetable update at your first opportunity.”
The complaint concerns the manner in which the Mayor dealt with some information.
This is not going to end well for anyone – including the Integrity Commissioner.
 By Pepper Parr
May 15th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The local Liberal Party organization may not have gotten the memo yet but the people at head office have said (not announced yet) that the party will soon open nominations for candidates in ridings across Ontario for the 2026 election.
 Bonnie Crombie has to hit the road again, looking for strong candidates, raising money for the next election and figuring out what went wrong during the by-elections. Her number 1 wish would be for the RCMP to make an announcement. That would take the wind out of the Doug Ford sails The word was put out during a meeting at which Liberal Party leader Bonnie Crombie spoke about how the Liberal’s would react to the loss of two seats during the recent by-elections. The Milton seat was seen as one the Liberals could win. They didn’t.
 Zee Hamid, formerly a Liberal – now the PC member for Milton is going to have to make nice with the PC Caucus once he is sworn in. Zee Hamid, formerly a Liberal was talked into running for the Progressive Conservatives (was there a promise made) and with the support of every Tory they could find to cover the riding they surprised a lot of Liberals who thought they had the seat in the bag.
The Toronto Star reports that “Hamid’s nomination had rankled some Tories given his Liberal past, but Ford was convinced that would help the PCs in a close race. Liberal sources have also said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s slide in the polls is not helping the provincial party.”
In the meantime, Crombie said she will continue travelling the province, meeting with Liberals and local media to become better known in advance of the next provincial election campaign two years from now.
Burlington now has to begin their candidate search and hold a nomination meeting.
There is a potential candidate out there that could beat Natalie Pierre, the current MPP.
Would the local party organization live with her? They didn’t want to the last time around.
By Staff
May15, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
City Hall wants you to know that Fireworks are permitted to be set off on Victoria Day only (May 20).
Please continue to use our valued outdoor spaces responsibly. The City’s bylaw regulates where and when residents can set off family (low hazard) fireworks. For more information about who to contact if you have a concern, visit burlington.ca/fireworks.
City Council decided that they would not support a fireworks display except for Canada Day. Link to how that decision was made at the end of this article.
| City Service |
Holiday Closure Information |
| Animal Services
|
The Animal Shelter at 2424 Industrial St. will be closed to appointments on Monday, May 20.
To report an animal control related emergency on a holiday, please call 1-888-264-3135. |
| Burlington Transit |
Burlington Transit will operate on a Sunday schedule on Monday, May 20. For real-time bus information and schedules visit myride.burlingtontransit.ca.
The Downtown Transit Terminal, at 430 John St., and Specialized Dispatch will be closed on Monday, May 20. |
| City Hall |
Service Burlington and the Building, Renovating and Licensing counter on the main floor of City Hall at 426 Brant St., will be closed on Monday, May 20.
Many service payments are available online at burlington.ca/onlineservices.
For online development services, MyFiles can be used by residents who have applied for Pre-Building Approval. Check the status of Pre Building Approval applications at burlington.ca/MyFiles. |
| Halton Court Services – Provincial Offences Office |
Court administration counter services at 4085 Palladium Way will be closed on Monday, May 20.
With the exception of the Victoria Day closure, telephone payments are available at 905-637-1274, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. All in-person services are available from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. Many services are also available by email at burlingtoncourt@burlington.ca or online at Halton Court Services. |
| Parking |
On Sunday, May 19 and Monday, May 20: Free parking is available downtown, on the street, in municipal lots and in the parking garage (414 Locust St.).
On Saturday, May 18: Pay parking downtown is required in high-demand parking lots (Lots 1, 4 and 5) and all on-street metered parking spaces. A three-hour maximum is in effect for all on-street spaces. Free parking is available in the remaining municipal lots and the parking garage (414 Locust St.).
NOTE:
- The Waterfront parking lots (east and west) do not provide free parking on holidays.
- Parking exemptions are required to park overnight on city streets and for longer than five hours. Visit burlington.ca/parkingexemptions.
- Paid parking, on weekends only (including long weekends), at Beachway Park (1100 Lakeshore Rd) begins Saturday, May 18 using HONK Mobile.
- Please make an online reservation using Park Pass to visit Lowville Park on weekends. Reservations are free and available in three-hour time slots starting Saturday, May 18.
|
| Recreation Programs and Facilities |
Drop-In Recreation Activities
Tansley Woods Pool at 1996 Itabashi Way and Centennial Pool at 5151 New St. are open on Victoria Day, Monday, May 20 for recreational and lap swimming.
Drop-in swimming, skating and other program times vary for the long weekend. Drop in or reserve in advance. For schedules and online reservations, visit burlington.ca/dropinandplay.
Splash Pads Opening
The City’s nine splash pads will open on Saturday, May 18. For a list of locations, visit burlington.ca/splashpads.
Outdoor Activities
Burlington has a wide variety of outdoor activities to enjoy with your family during the long weekend, including:
- trails and multi-use paths
- parks and playgrounds.
- picnic site reservations for La Salle or Hidden Valley Park
Find out more at burlington.ca/outdoorplay.
Golf
Tyandaga Golf Course is open for the season. Tee times can be booked online at tyandagagolf.com or by calling 905-336-0005, ext. 2.
Play Lending Library
Our Lending Library has a variety of outdoor and indoor play equipment available to borrow at no charge. Equipment pickup is on Thursdays, and return drop off is on Tuesdays at Haber Community Centre (3040 Tim Dobbie Dr.). From archery to wiffle ball, and Kanjam to pickleball – check out burlington.ca/playlending for details.
Customer Service
Recreation, Community and Culture customer service is available to assist you over the holiday weekend.:
- In person at recreation facility counters during program times (May 18 to 20)
- By email at liveandplay@burlington.ca (May 18 and 19)
- By phone at 905-335-7738, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (May 18 and 19)
Phone and email service are closed on Victoria Day, Monday, May 20. |
| Roads, Parks and Forestry |
The administrative office will be closed on Monday, May 20. Essential services will be provided as required. |
Related news stories:
City fire works decision.
No fireworks on Victoria Day
By Staff
May 15th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
 Become a member – the place becomes a second home. If you are a member of the Burlington Performing Arts Centre – you will know about the kick off the season event that is taking place.
This is the occasion when they do their reveal- and showcase the events planned for the next season.
 Rainer Noack Rainer Noack will lead the audience as the 24/25 season – he is at times a very funny man.
The evening will also include award presentations for the 2024 Hall of Fame inductee, surprise guests and musical performances.
Members receive advance ticket buying access and can purchase tickets on the night of the launch, and for two weeks prior to public on-sale on June 14, 2024.
If this is something you want in on – become a member. Click HERE
By Staff
May 14th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The Sound of Music is not that far away.
 Huge crowds for the music which is always great.
A lot of people are using the event as an occasion to meet with colleagues, business partners; using it as an occasion to reward those employees who make you the success you are.
Reserve your places for:
VIP Lounge Day Pass
Platinum VIP Lounge Day Pass
Sound of Music Festival VIP Lounge Weekend Pass:
Sound of Music Festival Platinum VIP Lounge Weekend Pass
Click here
By Staff
May 14th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Visiting Lowville Park? Reserved weekend parking starts again on May 18
 A river runs through the park where the salmon spawn and children get to play. Visitors to Lowville Park should reserve their free parking spot for park visits from May 18 until Oct. 7, 2024. Reservations can be made online using Park Pass and are needed on weekends and holidays between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. There is no charge for reservations.
Visitors may book one spot per day as there are a limited number of parking spots available. Reservations are available in three-hour time slots and allow others the chance to enjoy the park.
How it works:
Be aware:
Kaylan Edgcumbe, Manager, Integrated Mobility
“By asking visitors to reserve their parking spot again this summer on weekends and holidays, we are able to manage parking in this popular park. There is no charge to reserve a parking spot and visitors can book their three-hour time slot before they visit the park. We will keep the gates in the up position when reservations aren’t needed on weekdays so visitors can enjoy the park.
Visitors to the area should keep in mind there are very few parking spaces available on Lowville Park Road. We ask that everyone be considerate to local businesses and residents.”
Links and Resources
Park Pass – for advanced parking spot reservations
Parking Reservations
Lowville Park
By Staff
May 14th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
It is the disease that families with aging parents have to face: Alzheimer and the dementia that has to be dealt with is now a .
Joseph Brant Hospital (JBH) and the Alzheimer Society are partnering on a new initiative aimed at transforming dementia care in the hospital’s Emergency Department (ED).
The Alzheimer Society’s DREAM Team (Dementia Resources Education Advocacy Mentorship) is an innovative and collaborative model that embeds a dedicated Dementia Resource Consultant (DRC) in hospital EDs to assist individuals living with dementia and their caregivers.
 Diane Mulholland, the DRC who leads the DREAM Team at JBH, has been working with hospital and Home and Community partners since January to help connect patients and their loved ones to the resources they need in a timely and efficient manner.
“Success stems from the close collaboration between the DRC, Home and Community Care Support Services Care Coordinator, and hospital team,” said Janine Reimer, Manager of clinical programs at the Alzheimer Society Brant Haldimand Norfolk Hamilton Halton (ASBHNHH).
“Together, we aim to provide immediate support and resources to patients and caregivers, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and reducing the need for physical or chemical restraints.”
 Janine Reimer, Manager of clinical programs at the Alzheimer Society Brant Haldimand Norfolk Hamilton Halton The introduction of the DREAM Team at JBH represents a significant step forward in dementia care, underscoring the hospital’s commitment to innovation and excellence in patient-centered care.
“Partnerships with organizations like the Alzheimer Society and Home and Community Care Support Services is key to improving care for patients who require additional support once they leave the hospital,” said Sarah Duke, Manager of JBH’s ED.
“At Joseph Brant Hospital, the DREAM Team embodies our commitment to providing unparalleled dementia care, where compassion meets innovation to ensure every individual’s journey is characterized by dignity, respect, and personalized support,” she added.
About the Alzheimer Society DREAM Program
The DREAM (Dementia Resources Education Advocacy Mentorship) Program, initiated by the Alzheimer Society, aims to enhance dementia care within hospital settings through specialized support, diversion strategies, and community engagement. By embedding dementia specialists within emergency departments, the DREAM Program facilitates timely access to resources and support for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers.
About Joseph Brant Hospital
 An architects rendering of the new entrance to the Joseph Brant Hospital Joseph Brant Hospital (JBH) is a full-service, academic community teaching hospital located in Burlington, serving residents in Burlington as well as surrounding communities of Halton Region, Hamilton, Waterdown, Flamborough, and Stoney Creek. There are 194 physicians, 2,062 full- and part-time staff and 200 volunteers committed to providing care and living the hospital’s core values of Compassion, Accountability, Respect and Excellence.
JBH is a Clinical Education site in conjunction with McMaster University and a partner member of the Burlington Ontario Health Team. It is honoured to be recognized as one of Hamilton Niagara’s Top Employers for eight consecutive years.
About Alzheimer Society of Brant Haldimand Norfolk, Hamilton Halton
 In 2016, the Alzheimer Society of Brant, Haldimand Norfolk, Hamilton Halton completed its official amalgamation bringing together three previous Society chapters: Alzheimer Society of Brant, Alzheimer Society of Haldimand Norfolk, and Alzheimer Society of Hamilton Halton. The individual chapters served their communities for more than 25 years.
People with dementia are at the centre of everything we do. The Society focuses its programs and services around three pillars of care: education, counselling services and wellness activities. It provides education to families along their journey through dementia and counsellors operate on-going support groups and one-on-one sessions within the family home. The Alzheimer Society promotes health & wellness programs for people living with dementia and care partners; as well as people who are at greatest risk of developing dementia including seniors and marginalized populations.
By Staff
May 14th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The Ontario government is cracking down on auto theft by introducing legislation that, if passed, would suspend driver’s licences for people convicted of the crime. With auto thefts and carjackings on the rise across the province, the legislation would help deter potential thieves and make it more challenging for criminals to re-offend.
 Auto thefts are now part of organized crime groups “Car theft is a cowardly and often violent crime that can traumatize victims and communities who experience it,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation. “Under the leadership of Premier Ford, our government is sending a clear message to those who commit these crimes and using every tool in our toolbox to keep them off our streets.”
Under the proposed legislation, thieves convicted of motor vehicle theft under the Criminal Code would face a 10-year licence suspension for a first offence, a 15-year licence suspension for a second offence and a lifetime licence suspension for a third offence. Licence suspensions would apply to convictions where the court found that aggravating factors were involved in the commission of the offence, such as violence, use of a weapon, use of force, threat, or pursuit of financial gain.
“Under the leadership of Premier Ford, our government is taking bold action to stop what is a serious and often violent crime,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. “Criminals who want to steal a car in Ontario need to know there will be severe consequences for doing so.”
 Stunt driving is also getting out of control. In addition to stiff penalties for auto theft, the province is also proposing to strengthen penalties for stunt driving. The proposed legislation would ensure that anyone convicted of stunt driving receives a minimum mandatory licence suspension – one year for a first conviction, three years for a second conviction and a lifetime suspension, reducible to 10 years under certain criteria, for a third conviction.
Quick Facts
- Every 14 minutes, a vehicle is stolen in Ontario, with Toronto experiencing a 78 per cent increase in violent carjackings since 2021.
- The federal mandatory minimum prison sentence for a third auto theft offence is six months.
- In 2023, over 12,000 immediate roadside licence suspensions were issued for street racing and/or stunt driving – the highest number since the COVID-19 pandemic.
- The Ontario government is investing $18 million over three years to help police services combat and prevent auto theft.
- Together with the federal government, Ontario has invested more than $250 million through the Guns, Gangs and Violence Reduction Strategy (GGVRS) to fight gun and gang crime, including auto theft.
By Pepper Parr
May 14th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The Ontario Land Tribunal hearing on the plans for two 31 and 36 storey towers will resume on Thursday.
 The plan is to tear down the existing hotel and build the two towers on the left – one at 31 storeys and the other at 36 storeys – each sitting on a 3 level podium. The two towers will be separated by a wide pathway leading the the eastern side of Spencer Smith Park.  They are close to hearing all the expert witness testimony and the cross examination of each witness. Tedious stuff until we are able to match up with what a witness says and what comes out when that witness is crossed examined.
There are all kinds of images, renderings and designs that help tell the story.
Using that material has proven to be a problem.
As media we are required to work with the media specialists at the OLT. Turns out they have a bunch of rules that we are required to follow – failure to do so can result in a fine of up to $20,000 – which is a little on the rich side for us.
In order to publish what we hear we have to get permission from the OLT Member (Member is the tile given to the person(s) hearing the case before the tribunal.
Problem with that is – we can’t communicate with the Member.
A meeting last week started with the Member saying:
“In accordance with the tribunals rules of practice and procedure, specifically rules 22.5 to 22.7. No person shall take or attempt to take a photograph a motion picture of video recording, or other recording capable of producing audio or visual representations by electronic means, or otherwise at any Proceedings of the tribunal open to the public, unless the presiding tribunal unit number authorizes the recording.
“The tribunal’s rules require any such request to be made prior to the start of the hearing. And no requests have been made, nor authorized and as such, any of these actions are prohibited in this hearing. Failure to respect this prohibition constitutes an offence under Section 29 of the statutory powers and Procedures Act and potentially exposes a person to significant fines if found in contravention.”
Here is what the OLT media people have told us – they are very firm in the instructions they give.
Please note that contacting a Tribunal Member outside of the hearing event is not allowed as doing so could compromise, or appear to compromise, the neutrality and independence of the OLT and its Members, and their ability to provide natural justice.
If a member of the public wishes to make a request to record, they may contact the Case Coordinator. Requests from media, should be sent to our media inbox media.olt@ontario.ca.
Please see the answer to your questions below:
Question: May we have permission to use some of the images that appear?
 During the examination of one of the City witnesses we learned that the grading of the slope that is part of the pathway between the two towers is expected to be similar to the terracing at the Bridgewater development yards to the east. Are people going to be able to get down steps like these easily? Photo credit: Gazette photo bank The Member presiding over the Hearing in respect to Case No. OLT-22-003866, has advised those in attendance and observing the video hearing that in accordance with the Tribunal’s Rules of Practice and Procedure, specifically Rules 22.5 to 22.7, no person shall take or attempt to take a photograph, motion picture, video recording or other recording capable of producing audio or visual representations by electronic means, or otherwise, at any proceedings of the Tribunal open to the public, unless the presiding Tribunal Member authorizes the recording.
The request has been denied by the presiding Member.
Failure to respect this prohibition constitutes an offence under section 29 of the Statutory Powers and Procedures Act, and potentially exposes a person found in contravention to significant fines.
Please note that images contained in the case documents that are not subject to a confidentiality order are public records and can be shared pursuant to open court principles. However, using images captured via screenshot during a video hearing event is prohibited. As an alternative, please feel free to reach out to us to request images or documents that may be part of the public record for this case, and we will be happy to share them with you.
 This is the part of the development that will present all kinds of problems. The entrance to the Pearle Hotel is on the left – the entrance to the hotel that will be part of the development will be on the right. Photo credit: Gazette photo bank The difficulty with this is – in order to get the picture we want we have to tell them when the picture was shown and tell them which book of documents it is in and any other data needed to identify the picture. This is not a small task. The documents at this point are in the thousands of pages.
However, this development is important and the public should know what is planned and what information was used to make whatever decision the tribunal is going to make.
The tribunal instructs us with this statement:
If you need to quote from this statement, please note that quotes should be attributed as an Ontario Land Tribunal spokesperson.
By Staff
May 13th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
 Reverend Cannon Stuart Pike and Rick Reycroft There is a long stretch of property that leads from the front of St.Luke’s Anglican Church down to the Lake.
The land was part of a land grant given to Joseph Brant for his services to the British. It was a huge tract of land.
The piece that is in front of the church has sat there unused for well over 150 years.
 The patch of land that has been unused for decades will become a lovely place to walk and just enjoy being outdoors. The St. Luke’s congregation decided they wanted to make the land accessible to the public and came up with an idea they took to their ward Councillor.
Those early meetings resulted in an idea that was on the today’s Council agenda.
It is going to require a little jiggling of parking space and some effort to figure how any of the costs can be covered – none of which appeared to be a serious problem.
By Pepper Parr
May 13th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
 City Manager Hassaan Bait So – how did he do on his first day in the public eye?
Newly minted City Manager Hassaan Bait sat quietly at his place around the horseshoe; saying very little.
He is in that listen and observe stage of his getting the feel of the job.
Expect this to last for a number of months. When he has acclimatized himself to the culture at city hall and knows the senior people well enough – expect him to let people know what he is thinking.
Right now – he is doing what he said he would do before he even had his business cards printed up.
By Staff
May 14th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The plan for a new look for Civic Square has three options labelled canopies, atrium and portals.
Each option has different features.
 What you get and what you don’t get with each of the options.  Getting to the point where a recommendation could be put before Council Staff met with groups that had a stake in the land.
Detailed graphics of each option are set out below.
Option 1 Canopies:
Existing split entries maintained, primary focal point provided at Brant Street and James Street intersection, secondary focal point provided at Elgin Street façade. Covered canopies direct visitors to the entries. Three exterior rooms created to support programming. Existing parking area reduced. Landscaped transition between Civic Square and 400 Brant Street (private). All internal stairs, ramps, barriers removed.
Option 2 Atrium
 Consolidated entry created at proposed atrium feature. Focal point provided at Brant Street and James Street intersection. Covered canopies provided along building façade. Secondary shade element provided adjacent to 400 Brant Street. Three exterior rooms created to support programming. Existing parking area reduced. Partial landscaped transition between Civic Square and 400 Brant Street (private). All internal stairs, ramps, barriers removed.
Option 3 Portals
Consolidated entry created at proposed entry vestibule. Primary focal point provided at Brant Street and James Street intersection (dual height, freestanding structures). Secondary focal point provided at Elgin Street façade. Building walls exposed / visible. Two exterior rooms created to support programming. Existing parking maintained with minor reduction in area around focal point. Partial landscaped transition between Civic Square and 400 Brant Street (private). All internal stairs, ramps, barriers removed.
We will report tomorrow on how Council reacted to the Staff report.
They did promise that there would be all kinds of citizen engagement. Expect the city to put out a survey asking for public input.
By Staff
May 13th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Is summer here yet? How do you know?
Because starting on the 18th – you will have to pay for parking at the Beachway.
The City is expecting more visitors to its popular Beachway Park – they will have to pay for parking; including the overflow lot at Lakeshore Road and Willow Avenue.
 Summer in the City Fees will be charged from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends and holidays until the last weekend in September: Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024.
Parking fees can be paid using the HONK mobile app. Visitors do not have to download the app but can scan the QR code on parking lot signage to pay for parking.
Weekend and holiday parking is available for an hourly rate of $2.50 or a daily flat rate of $20. There is a transaction fee of $0.35 for each payment. Dashboard tickets are not needed as every payment is linked to a license plate number.
Halton residents have 10 days of free parking per year at Beachway Park.
Residents should wait to fill out the parking exemption form once they’ve arrived at the beach and parked in a legal parking spot. The exemption doesn’t guarantee a spot, but it does give residents parking for the day at no charge.
 With this much beach – you know there is going to be a significant need for parking. There is no charge for parking in most municipal lots in Downtown Burlington on weekends and holidays. Beachway visitors are encouraged to extend their walk or use the drop-off zone, park for free in the downtown and meet their party at the beach. Consider taking Burlington Transit, cycling, walking or rolling to the beach and leave the car at home.
 Illegally parked vehicles will be issued tickets and/or towed. Drivers are reminded not to park illegally, especially on Lakeshore Road shoulders and the grass boulevard over the pipeline: they will be towed.
Charging for parking has improved parking and traffic flow since it was introduced in 2021. If you are planning to visit the Beachway, plan ahead and prepare to park in another location if the lots are full. Please make sure you are parked in a legal parking spot. City bylaw officers must ticket and tow those parked illegally to help manage parking and traffic flow. Most importantly, this keeps everyone safe.
There is also an overflow lot west of the Beachway. It has 30 more parking spots in an unsurfaced lot. Visitors using this overflow lot need to pay for parking and the fees are the same as the Beachway lots.”
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