 By Pepper Parr
August 14th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
There was a time when a resident could send a note to their ward Councillor and get a response promptly.
This still happens – for some people – not all people.
 Councillor Kelvin Galbraith.  Tom Muir Tom Muir, an Aldershot resident was told by his ward Councillor that Muir would not get any service from ward 1 Councillor Kelvin Galbraith.
Tom Muir can be a handful at times. Burlington prefers people that are polite and the current Council now takes the view that they can cut someone off if they don’t want to respond to them. Mayor Meed Ward pointed out to citizens that Council members and Staff are not punching bags, something she appears to have forgotten or ignored when she revised a Council Agenda in order to pound away at Councillor Shawna Stolte.
Stolte is another Council member who has decided to be selective in who she responds to.
Marsden can also be a handful at times. She was like a dog with a bone when the infections at the Joseph Brant Hospital resulted in the death of 98 people. Marsden kept that situation in the public eye which resulted in a financial settlement; there has yet to be a public apology for the failure to ensure the hospital was kept clean.
Ann Marsden learned recently that the email she sends to anyone at City Hall does not get to the person it was addressed to – it instead gets routed to the Office of the City Clerk where it is reviewed and someone in that office determines what happens to it.
Marsden wanted to communicate with Councillor Stole on a matter that related to a Council meeting that was chaired by Stole in the Mayor’s absence.
 Ann Marsden reading to City Council  Councillor Shawna Stolte serving as Deputy Mayor Knowing that her email was being redirected she sent a Registered letter to Stole at her home address – expecting a response. The letter was signed for – so Marsden knows it was received – the lack of a response is both troubling and disturbing. This Council officially takes the position that they are both transparent and accountable.
The letter sent to Stole is set out below:
Deputy Mayor Shawn Stolte at Nomination Paper Address BY REGISTERED MAIL
c.c. Mr. Blake Hurley Mr. Tim Commisso
Care of Deputy Mayor Stolte August 8, 2023
Dear Deputy Mayor Stolte,
First of all our apologies for addressing you at your home by registered mail. However, as you will see from the attached Update Comment to an article that appeared in the Gazette regarding our delegation on July 11, 2023 Kevin Arjoon has confirmed that our emails to all staff and councillors, are, as suspected diverted and do not reach those intended. This happened in the past with the former Clerk, City Manager and Head of Legal but we thought such tactics to prevent our right of engagement with staff and council through email and the delegation process were a thing of the past with the retirement of the former Clerk, Head of Legal and departure of the last City Manager.
But obviously we were wrong to believe this was a thing of the past given City Clerk, Kevin Arjoon has verified that all the Marsden emails to Councillors and staff are diverted to the Clerk’s Office. The reason, he claims, is so the emails can be properly actioned! Arjoon has failed to respond to:
Who in the Clerk’s Office is receiving the emails?
Who instructed the Marsden emails to staff/council members be diverted?
The Clerk also verified this diversion of the Gazette published Marsden emails from clerks@burlington.ca was responsible for the Public and Council being informed the Marsdens had not registered for two delegations at the July 11, 2023 Council meeting that led to you calling for a motion to waive the Procedural Bylaw. Arjoon’s fix to address our delegation request not being addressed when
it should have been appears to us to be a deliberate act of deceit by the City Clerk to obtain an unnecessary vote of Council. The purpose of which was to divert attention from what was occurring with the Marsden’s timely email request of clerks@burlington.ca to delegate.
The result of the deceit, has led to two very important matters of huge public interest improperly remaining on the Consent Agenda at the July 11, 2023 Council meeting which you had the honour of chairing given the Mayor’s inability to do so. . The Marsdens were properly registered for a delegation on both these items which required their transfer to the Regular Agenda, which did not occur.
This results in a question of the legitimacy of the policy and new by-law, the first Trespass By-law the city has approved. Both of which were put in place to protect clients of the City’s recreation programmes and were long overdue. The staff review of the policy was ordered by Council to occur December 2020.
This letter is to formally ask you to:
Correct the minutes to show Council were informed, noted by yourself, that the Marsdens had registered to delegate at the July 11, 2023 Council meeting and, therefore, the Motion to Waive the Procedural By-law was applicable to only one delegate, not three.
Put forward a Motion of Reconsideration to the August 24, 2023 if held and September Council meeting if not, that will place Public Conduct Policy and Trespass By-law (CL-08-23) and Civic Square and Brant Street renewal – project initiation (ES-27-23) on the Regular Agenda of the appropriate September/October Committees and the following Council meeting.
Put a motion before Committee that:
requests a report from Clerk Kevin Arjoon that explains the delay in complying with the Council review date of December 2020 on the Public Conduct policy and other Corporate Policy review dates.
requests a report from the City Legal Director Blake Hurley as to why a Trespass By-law has not been in place to support the Public Conductcorporate policy since the policy was first introduced, given the apparent lack of authority to issue trespass notices without such a by-law.
We believe all of these actions by yourself as the Chair of the July 11, 2023 Council meeting are in the best interests of the community all members of Council have voluntarily agreed to serve and demonstrate their willingness to abide by the Procedural Bylaws each of you have approved on several occasions and the various pieces of legislation pertinent to good governance including the Municipal Act.
As our emails continue to be diverted despite our objections we would very much appreciate you sending a copy of this letter to Messrs. Hurley and Commisso and each member of council and then confirm having done so to anneandave@gmail.com.
Again we apologize for our method of communication with you and hope that it does not have to be repeated after Messrs Hurley and Commisso are made aware of the situation and do what they have to in order to restore our ability to communicate with staff and council the same as every other taxpayer expects to be able to do.
Thank you Deputy Mayor Stolte for doing what you can to restore democratic principles, earned by the sacrifice of so many, to prevail at Council and in the governance of the City of Burlington.
Anne and Dave Marsden
Pro Bono Community Health, Safety and Access Advocates 308-1425 Ghent Ave, Burlington, Ontario L7S 1X5
905-467-2860 anneandave@gmail.com
“Work for the well-being of the city to which I have sent you.“ Jeremiah 29 vs. 7 NIV Bible.
 City Manager Tim Commisso appears to have delegated the Marsden problem to the City Clerk  City Clerk Kevin Arjoon Efforts are going to have to be made by someone, ideally the City Manager, to bring to a head what is a vexing problem.
There has to be limits that are reasonable and easily understood by the average person. The City Clerk appears to have put in place a procedure that is reasonable. The decision on the part of Councillor Stolte to ignore the registered letter would appear to be avoiding a problem. That tends not to work with Ann Marsden.
This situation could be seen as a tempest in a tea pot – until it happens to you.
Related news stories:
Is City Council about to limit your rights
Has City Council become authoritarian?
 By Staff
August 14th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
The 2023 Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) is just around the corner and Metrolinx has enhanced the CNE experience for GO customers.
To help you get to and from the CNE, Metrolinx is providing additional service on the Lakeshore West line.
 This includes:
- Late-night trips – that usually only run on Friday and Saturday – will run all week for Lakeshore East and West Line customers during the CNE.
PRESTO cardholders are also able to enjoy massive savings of up to 43% on CNE advance sale admission and ride tickets. This incredible offer is available until August 17 on the PRESTO Perks website.
In addition, veterans and a companion can ride GO and UP free to and from the CNE for the Warriors’ Day Parade this Saturday (August 19). Immediate family members of deceased veterans may also ride for free if carrying something to identify their relation to the late veteran, such as service papers or identification card.
The Canadian National Exhibition takes place from August 18 to September 4, 2023 at Exhibition Place in Toronto. Riders are encouraged to use gotransit.com or triplinx.ca to plan their trips. Customers can also check the GO Transit Service Updates page for real-time details.
Service enhancements have been made on all the GO lines.
Have a fantastic day!
 By Staff
August 13th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
The New Horizons for Seniors Program is open until September 14, 2023 at 3:00 pm, Eastern Standard Time (EST)! This federal grant provides funding for projects that make a real difference in the lives of seniors and in our community of Oakville North-Burlington.
 The objectives of the program are to:
Promote volunteerism among seniors and other generations;
Engage seniors in the community through mentoring of others;
Expand awareness of elder abuse including financial abuse;
Support social participation and inclusion of seniors; and,
Provide capital assistance for new and existing community projects and programs for seniors.
For more information or to apply for this grant, visit
By Staff
August 13th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
The Auxiliary to Joseph Brant Hospital is pleased to announce that they will be holding their “25th Anniversary Antique and Collectible Auction and Marketplace” on Saturday, September 16th, 2023 at St Christopher’s Anglican Church, 662 Guelph Line.
This year, along with the Auction, they will have a Marketplace.
The Marketplace will consist of items already priced and may be purchased as Cash and Carry, without a bid card or a buyers premium.
All proceeds from the sales are given to the hospital to purchase much needed medical equipment. More information
 By Melvin Davies
August 13th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Canadian Online Gambling Situation: Review of the Main Online Gambling Laws in Canada
Canadians have engaged in gambling for decades. 70% of Canadians participate in gambling, with 26% turning to online options. It generated $5.06 billion in 2020, with men (30%) more likely to participate than women (23%).
Statistics and facts about features of Canadian gambling players
On average, each person loses $619. Slot machines and casinos are the most popular, comprising over 60% of the Canadian online gambling market. Poker and casino games follow at 15% and 12%, respectively. Sports betting is increasing, now making up 8% of spending. Best online casinos in Canada with free spins, welcome bonuses, and no deposit bonuses are in special demand among players.
Key History Points: Canadian Online Gambling Laws
- Canada had an outright ban on gambling until 1969. Laws were first relaxed for horse racing and lotteries. In 1985, commercial casinos were legalized.
- In 1992, native tribes gained the right to offer casinos on reservations. In the early 2000s, provinces started online lottery ticket sales and sports betting.
- By 2010, some provinces allowed private companies to offer online casinos along with poker games. However, there were legal gray areas regarding offshore sites.
- In 2015, Bill C-290 formally legalized single-event sports betting to combat the unregulated market. Still, Canada gambling laws remain complex, varying significantly between provinces regarding the types of betting and platforms allowed.
Criminal Code of Canada: Online Gambling Laws in Canada
Each province regulates the industry for adults who are legally permitted to engage in it. The minimum age is 19, except in Quebec, Manitoba, and Alberta at 18, according to online Canada gambling laws. The Canadian Gaming Association regulates and ensures integrity.
- Section 201 prohibits illegal gaming or betting. Anyone who “unlawfully” bets or wagers is guilty of an offence punishable by summary conviction.
- Section 203 forbids illegal games along with gaming houses. Anyone who keeps a gaming house or allows illegal gaming on their premises is guilty of an indictable offense punishable by imprisonment for up to 2 years.
- Section 205 interdicts cheating at play or related. Card cheating is a serious offence that can lead to imprisonment for up to two years.
- Section 207 proscribes illegal devices used for playing to obtain money. Anyone who imports, makes, sells, or possesses such a device knowing it’s illegal is guilty of an indictable offence punishable by imprisonment for up to 2 years.
Interesting Facts About Canadian Online Gambling Laws
Canada is planning to revise its web gambling laws in 2023 due to concerning statistics. A 2019 study found that men gamble online more than women (57% vs 43%), but women are more susceptible to having an addiction (1.8% vs 1.2%). Revenue from female users increased by 160% from 2001 to 2016, which may lead to new regulations.
- While single-game sports betting is illegal, in 2021, Canadians bet $31 billion through offshore websites, circumventing prohibitions. Some lawmakers argue legalization could generate tax revenue.
- While Canada online gambling laws and rules aim to balance morality concerns with commercial interests, technology challenges regulators. Virtual reality and cryptocurrency gambling could reach over $520 billion in the US and Canada by 2023, posing a challenge for regulators to keep up with this new technology.
- In 2022, the Mohawks of Kahnawake received Canada’s first license.
- Updating new Canada gambling laws is critical as nearly 3 million Canadians bet online yearly. The impending 2023 review calls for a coherent national strategy built on facts, not fiction.
Online Gambling Laws in Canada: More Overview
Most provincial web gambling began in 2010, generating over $14 billion in 2017 revenue, 50% from a lottery, 25% from casinos, and 15% online. The Kahnawake Mohawk Territory hosts many servers but is unregulated. Efforts to expand gambling meet public health concerns.
According to online gambling laws in Canada, players must declare over $10,000 income; winnings are taxed at their top tax bracket. Promotional credits and free bets are taxable. Self-excluded players cannot deduct losses. Regulators ensure integrity, set limits, issue fines, and can bar players. While Canada has a solid regulated internet gambling market, concerns persist about problem playing and loopholes that enable underage or illicit play. Regulation and social responsibility initiatives aim to allow recreational play while preventing excess.
The Kahnawake Gaming Commission: Regulatory Body
 The Kahnawake Gaming Commission is a regulatory body in the Mohawk Territory of Kahnawake, Canada. It was established in 1996 to regulate and license online gambling operators and related service providers. Canada online gambling laws and rules ensure strict fairness, security, and player protection standards. Some benefits of obtaining a license include access to a global player base, a respected regulatory framework, and a range of support services.
Main Licenses: Key Offline & Online Gambling Laws in Canada
Licenses in Canada are issued by regulatory bodies to authorize such operations and activities. The key licenses are issued by provinces and territories which oversee betting within their jurisdictions. It set the rules and regulations for formats like casinos, lotteries, and bingo.
Obtaining a license is mandatory for any operator in Canada. The licenses ensure gambling activities are conducted responsibly, transparently, and honestly. Such Canadian online gambling laws and regulations provide strict advice, guidelines for users to follow.
- Manitoba Liquor and Gaming Authority of Manitoba regulates casinos, lotteries, bingo, and raffles. Established in 2000, it issues licenses and ensures compliance with regulations. It aims to conduct betting responsibly through public education, enforcing age restrictions, along with other standards.
- British Columbia – The Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch (GPEB). It has regulated it since 1997, licenses and monitors services, and investigates violations. It sets policies and standards to uphold integrity, fairness, and social responsibility. The GPEB aims to mitigate risks and prevent money laundering through compliance enforcement and audits.
- Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission licenses gambling in Alberta, including casinos, lotteries, and bars. It was established in 1993. It first offered sports betting in 2021 and web gambling in 2022.
- The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario regulates gambling in Ontario. Established in 1998, it oversees casinos, lotteries, horse racing, plus online gambling. It first permitted online casino games, and poker in 2019. Tribal casinos must follow its standards. It aims to limit underage drinking.
- Québec Gambling Commission Link and Kahnawake Gaming Commission. Established in 1993, it oversees casinos, lotteries.
- The Kahnawake Gaming Commission, based in the Mohawk territory of Kahnawake, licenses open to Canadians and internationally. Established in 1996, it was an early adopter of online gaming. It focuses on fair standards and player protection.
- Newfoundland and Labrador – Atlantic Lottery Corporation (ALC), offering casinos, and online betting since 1976. It aims for responsible play and donates 100% of its profits to the province. Online sports betting and casino games launched in 2021.
- Prince Edward Island Gambling. Established in 1976, it offers lotteries, bingo, horse racing, and web gambling. It aims for integrity and social responsibility.
- New Brunswick Lotteries and Gaming Corporation. A crown corporation since 1970, it regulates lotteries, bingo, horse racing, and internet gambling. It focuses on social responsibility, donating 100% of its profits.
- Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA)oversees liquor, cannabis, and gaming across Saskatchewan. Established in 1996, it licenses over 5,000 businesses.
- Alcohol and Gaming Authority Nova Scotia regulates liquor and gaming. Established in 2015, it merged several regulatory bodies. It offers licenses for casinos, bars, and internet gambling. Sports wagering and online casino games were permitted in 2021.
Market Size: Ontario Online Gambling Regulation
Ontario has Canada’s largest gambling market. The Ontario Lottery with Gaming Corporation (OLG) regulates casinos, lotteries, slots, and online gaming in the province. Some key facts about the most important Canada online gambling laws:
- Ontario has 29 commercial casinos plus over 30,000 slots at venues across the province. Revenue is around $8 billion annually.
- OLG operates over 25,000 lottery ticket outlets, selling over 190 million lottery tickets yearly, generating over $3 billion in revenue.
- OLG launched PlayOLG, an online casino as well as a sportsbook, in 2015. It has over 400 games, taking in over $400 million in bets yearly.
- Ontario legalize online gambling age for betting is 19. Gamblers must provide ID to enter casinos, or register on PlayOLG.
- The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) is regulated by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO). The OLG must adhere to the Gaming Control Act, 1992, its regulations, and other provincial & federal laws. The main requirements include ensuring the integrity and fairness of games, protecting players, and preventing money laundering and other criminal activities.
- OLG contributes nearly $2 billion annually to Ontario’s government to fund public healthcare, education, and other programs. However, critics argue it has high social costs as well.
- Table games like blackjack and roulette are only permitted at commercial casinos. Private venues are restricted to slots. Poker is prohibited outside of casinos.
- Ontario has a self-exclusion program for problem betters. It spends tens of millions annually on treatment and education to promote responsible play.
- First Nations reserves in Ontario operate casinos under federal Ontario online gambling laws but must follow similar OLG regulations to be legally accessed by off-reserve patrons. Revenue benefits First Nations communities.
 OLG operates over 25,000 lottery ticket outlets, selling over 190 million lottery tickets yearly, generating over $3 billion in revenue. The OLG strictly regulates a large market in Ontario that generates substantial revenue, although not without social impacts along with policy debates. The regulation aims to limit risks while permitting private sector operators and various levels of government.
Regulators and Canadian Online Gambling Laws by Provinces
Gambling has been regulated in Canada since 1892, and it is now under provincial jurisdiction as a legal activity. In 1985, many provinces began introducing the lottery, casinos, and slot machines. 2010 Canada’s Criminal Code was amended to allow local governments to offer online gambling. As a result, it is legal in Canada. However, regulations and laws differ slightly in each province.
- Alberta. Legal gambling age – 18, regulatory body – Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission. Gambling is legal in Alberta and has been regulated since 1970. Options include slots, bingo, horse racing, and online casino/poker services.
- British Columbia. Legal gambling age – 19, regulatory body – British Columbia Lottery Corporation. Regulates casino, bingo, and horse racing. Legalized gambling in 1970. PlayNow.com offers internet gambling with slots, poker, and sports betting.
- Manitoba. Legal gambling age – 18, regulatory body – Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries Corporation. Established in 1970, it offers online casinos, poker, and limited sports betting.
- New Brunswick. Legal gambling age – 19, regulatory body – Atlantic Lottery Corporation. Atlantic Lottery Corporation has overseen gambling in New Brunswick since 1970, regulating scratch tickets, keno, poker, limited sports betting, and online casino games.
- Newfoundland and Labrador. Legal gambling age – 19, regulatory body – Atlantic Lottery Corporation.Newfoundland legalized limited gambling in 1975. The Atlantic Lottery Corporation regulates all primary gaming operations, including Canadian online gambling. The main types are a traditional lottery, scratch & win, keno, and some online casino games.
- Ontario. Legal gambling age – 19, regulatory body – Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG). Regulates bingo, casinos, horse racing, and PlayOLG.ca for online gambling. Established in 1975, it offers slots, table games, poker, and limited sports betting on PlayOLG.
- Prince Edward Island. Legal gambling age – 19, regulatory body – Atlantic Lottery Corporation. The Atlantic Lottery Corporation oversees a lottery, bingo, and video lottery. Authorized gambling started in 1976, with limited virtual options like casino games and keno.
- Quebec. Legal gambling age – 18, regulatory body – Loto-Quebec. Loto-Quebec regulates gambling, including bingo, horse racing, and four casinos. Established in 1969, they offer virtual services such as casino games, poker, sports betting, and lottery through LotoQuebec.com.
- Saskatchewan. Legal gambling age – 19, regulatory body – Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority. It was legalized in 1974 and overseen by the regulatory body for physical and online casinos. Limited options include table games, slots, poker, plus sports betting.
- Yukon, Nunavut, and Northwest Territories. Legal gambling age – 18. Limited regulated internet gambling options. Residents can use offshore sites. Strong restrictions on physical casinos. Only one casino each in Yukon and Northwest Territories.
By Popular Activity Types: Online Gambling Laws in Canada
Online gambling laws in Canada are complex, varying by province. Generally, it is legal in Canada, but each province has its regulatory framework. The Criminal Code of Canada sets out federal laws related to betting, including prohibiting certain gambling activities.
- Canadian online gambling sites: Internet gambling was illegal in Canada until provinces regulated sites. British Columbia launched Canada’s first legal online casino in 2004. Others followed.
- Casinos are legal in Canada, regulated provincially since 1985. Revenues fund healthcare along with education. The industry employs 128,000, generating $16 billion annually.
- Online Slots comprise 60% of revenues in Canada’s casinos. Provinces operate slots, contributing over $2 billion yearly for social programs.
- Poker has gained popularity in Canada since 2003. Regulated online poker generated $100 million in 2019. Home games are permitted but unregulated.
- Sports Lotteries are legal in Canada. Launched in 1969, they fund amateur sports, healthcare, and education. Annual revenues exceed $10 billion, with $1 billion going to charities.
Revenues from these operations provide substantial funding for social programs, healthcare, education, and charities nationwide. The regulation aims to encourage responsible play and mitigate risks.
Secure Online Canadian Gambling: Best Online Casinos in Canada
Canadians enjoy plating, whether at land-based casinos or online. Legitimate and strictly regulated internet gambling options in Canada provide secure opportunities to play casino games or bet on sports. Licensed sites uphold high standards for fair play, financial security, and responsible betting.
- Yoju Casino is a popular one available at the best Canadian online gambling sites, offering slots, poker, and blackjack. It is licensed in Kahnawake, Quebec, to secure personal data. Welcome bonus up to C$500 for Canadians.
- SkyCrown has live dealer games and slots from trusted software providers. They follow strict responsible playing Canada gambling laws in Malta and offer a C$1,500 bonus plus free spins for those who sign up.
- Zoome Casino, licensed by the Kahnawake Gaming Commission, offers secure communication and financial transactions. Canadians can enjoy a C$1,200 welcome bonus along with 120 free spins for popular slots and live casino games.
- Tonybet is licensed in Estonia, the UK, and Canada. Live betting, poker, plus slots are available. Uses the latest technology to ensure safe transactions and responsible play. New Canadian customers receive a C$120 risk-free bet.
SUMMARY QUESTIONS:
- How is gambling regulated in Canada? Canada regulates it federally through section 207 of the Criminal Code, but each province has its regulations within its borders.
- Who regulates gambling in Canada? Provincial and territorial governments regulate it, setting Canada gambling laws and minimum age requirements, issuing licenses, and enforcing standards for safe and fair play.
- Where is gambling legal in Canada? Legal gambling in Canada is overseen by the provincial governments, not the federal government. Most provinces allow various forms, including casinos, slots, lotteries, and horse racing.
- What is the Canada online gambling license? The Kahnawake Gaming Commission licenses such sites in Canada, ensuring they operate legally and comply with regulations to protect players, prevent underage playing, and handle funds securely.
By Pepper Parr
August 12th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Correction: Bill Kelly is with CHML radio – not CHCH TV as originally reported.
A report out of Hamilton has Bill Kelly being dropped by CHML – Global New Radio 900. radio. Mr. Kelly’s last show will be Monday August 14th
That is one hell of a way for a week to end for Burlington’s Mayor who used to be able to skip over to Hamilton to chit chat with Kelly and get the softest interviews ever given to a politician on a regular basis.
 Premier Ford tells the a news conference that Burlington is not meeting its housing construction pledge. Earlier in the week the Premier told us that Mayor Marianne Meed Ward was a “good” person but her numbers weren’t good enough and he was going to meet with her and help solve the problem – which was Burlington having the lowest number of housing starts in the province; 5% of what was pledged.
 Will Mayor Meed Ward be smiling when she meets with the Premier next week? Meed Ward responded with – we have more in the pipeline. This might be an opportunity for her to point out that the Ontario Land Tribunal isn’t helping her meet the pledge the city made.
The week began with the news that City Hall Staff in the bylaw enforcement unit had sent personal information along to the holder of the mortgage on the property that was visited by the bylaw people who proceeded to weed-whack all the plants on the front lawn and rear yard that didn’t meet a city standard.
In the world of horse racing they call that a trifecta – this was a trifecta of bad news.
Related news stories:
Premier mentions Burlington – wasn’t what the Mayor wanted to hear.
City Staff descend on residential property to clear out what they called weeds.
 By Pepper Parr
August 12th,2023
BURLINGTON, ON
The Press event in Streetsville on Friday was about to ocme to an end when a reporter asked for “one more one more.”
Premier: Sure I’m I’m okay with a question. Go ahead, Joe.
The column I’m working on today’s six homicides in Kirkland Lake, drugs, bail crime.
I’ve never in my life heard of six homicides in a small town like that. It’s a crisis. It’s not headline news. I think that’s maybe your fault this week. But but it is very serious and I want to know what you’re going to do about it.
Premier: Well, first of all, my you know, my prayers and thoughts go out to the families that lost the loved ones.
I’ve been hammering this bill reform from from day one. I led the charge with all the premiers to put this forward to the federal government. I want to thank all premiers, all 12 premiers that signed off and I want to thank all the police for for sacrificing every single day going out there protecting our communities. So it’s sitting at the federal government right now in their lives.
I have all the confidence that the the new ministers Dominic LeBlanc will move this forward in a rapid fashion. But you see a lot of these people you know are out on bail. They get a slap on the wrist. Do you know what else is really ticking me off lately job or these home invasions on these car thefts to you know people are getting their car stolen and right left and center.
Now they’re so brazen. They kick kick the door in at four o’clock five o’clock in the morning imagine you being in your house and your family and you have a little one Joe, the panic, it goes through.
I have a message for these guys. We’re going to catch you and you’re going for going to jail and you’re gonna get a slap on the wrist. You aren’t going to get out on bail. We’ll do everything in our power provincially to keep you locked away as long as possible. And we’re going to put an end to that.
 By Pepper Parr
August 12th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
A Gazette reader brought the picture to my attention. He makes a serious and adds:
“Seriously, MMW and Doug Ford, in the same day, trying to spin away the obvious with bafflegab and misdirection.
It would be so easy to just say “we blew it/you caught us” and just apologize – no need for professional communication staff.
By Pepper Parr
August 12, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
During an interview on the CHCH TV Morning Joe program Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward was asked about some of the development projects going on.
 Mayor Marianne Meed Ward – trying to explain what was meant by affordable Well, there’s there’s 25,000 units in the pipeline. That’s in various stages of review. People want to come to Burlington – we’re open for business – we welcome development. Of course we want to direct where we think it should go, which is around our GO stations and in aging retail plazas. There are 25,000 in the development pipeline; that’s part of our goal to issue permits for 29,000 homes. That’s the housing pledge that we use.
We signed up to do our part to help the province build deliver 1.2 million homes, we need more housing for people
How many of those 25,000 units would be affordable housing units?
Well, this is a question and it depends on what you define as affordable and so that is something that we’re working on the Ontario’s Big City Mayors caucus, which of course I’m the chair, 29 mayors of the largest municipalities in Ontario.
We need to have a standard definition of what affordable is. Is it 80% of income, is it 30% of your take home pay; what is it and then what about assisted housing? What about more deeply affordable housing. So you know rent geared to income, Co Op style, all of that is so desperately needed throughout the province.
And so we are working right now with Ontario Big City Mayors and with the Association of Municipalities of Ontario to suggest some standard definition so we know what we’re talking about. We also need to focus on making sure that there’s a range of housing types.
 Mayor Marianne Meed Ward What has been built in Burlington is mostly one bedroom bachelor that are not suitable for families. And we know that we need to build more housing for families and that’s going to be at a different price point.
Stay tuned. There’s lots more to come. We’re doing some research on this and we’re offering to work with the province to come up with some of those definitions. But in terms of the housing, the 25,000.
Some of it will be on an affordability metric, depending on how you define that.
We’re also working with Halton Region to buy some units and put it on our housing wait list for people who need assistance.
 By Pepper Parr
August 11th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
The comment section is doing what it is supposed to do – let people say what they feel.
I want to highlight one of the comments:
 “Burlington appears to have an authoritarian council that wants to control people, and they REACT in a heavy handed way…shame on Burlington for cutting down naturalization! I am embarrassed and apologize to Karen Barnes from all reasonable Burlingtonians.”
It was made by an architect who practices in Burlington – principled, has done excellent work
 By Ray Rivers
August 11th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Premier Doug was right about one thing. Ontario’s housing crisis is a matter of demand and supply. And though he didn’t actually point fingers, we all know that Justin Trudeau’s ambitious immigration policy is mostly why there are all these new Canadian residents looking for homes which don’t yet exist. Still, of the federal leaders only Maxime Bernier would restrict the flow of immigration. Even Pierre Poilievre, who likes to complain about housing and inflation problems related to the surge of newcomers, has yet to offer alternate immigration targets.
 Premier and Minister of Housing take their case to the public – the try to keep a straight face. In any case, housing demand is not why Doug Ford carved up the Greenbelt. One only has to read the well researched and damning report by Ontario’s Auditor General (AG) to see that his justification for gifting Greenbelt lands to his friends was just not true. Every person who voted in the last election and cares about preservation of our democracy and the environment should make her report mandatory reading.
It is a very sad story; a story of betrayal of public trust and one that we would have expected somewhere else, like Russia, rather than Ontario. But Ontario has its own oligarchs, a handful of wealthy developers receiving privileged treatment by the government in power just as they would in Mr. Putin’s world.
 Breaking up the Greenbelt was never really about providing new homes for the masses. The AG’s says it well in her report…
The Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (Housing Ministry) had already allocated the entirety of the 1.5-million-unit housing target to municipalities in October 2022—one month before the government’s proposal to remove land from the Greenbelt.
The government and the Housing Ministry did not have evidence that removing land from the Greenbelt was needed to meet the government’s housing goals.
Ontario’s Housing Affordability Task Force determined that a shortage of land was not the cause of the province’s housing challenges and that the Greenbelt and other environmentally sensitive areas must be protected.
Chief Planners in the regions of Durham, Hamilton and York—which are home to all 15 sites removed from the Greenbelt—told us that Greenbelt land was not needed to meet the housing targets assigned to them by the Housing Ministry and that there is sufficient land outside the Greenbelt in their regions that is already or easily serviced.
The Regional Planning Commissioners of Ontario, a group of senior municipal planning leaders from across Ontario, stated it does not support the removal of lands from the Greenbelt as a necessary step to address Ontario’s housing needs.
Ford has attempted to justify this gift to developers by claiming he is, in turn, adding even more land to the Greenbelt. Couldn’t he have designated those those additional lands for housing instead of robbing the Greenbelt? The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs indicated about 83 per cent of the area being removed is classified as prime agricultural land having the highest quality and capability for agriculture. And then there are the vital wetlands, 117 alone in the Duffins Rouge Agricultural Preserve.
Perhaps just as disturbing is how all of this was done. Again, the AG report says it well…..
The way the government assessed and selected lands for removal from, and addition to, the Greenbelt was not publicly transparent, objective or fully informed, and was inconsistent with the vision, goals and processes of the Greenbelt Plan, as well as previous amendments to the Greenbelt boundary.
Opening the Greenbelt for development was not needed to meet the government’s goal of building 1.5 million housing units over the next 10 years.
About 92% of the acreage removed from the Greenbelt was from five land sites passed on to the Housing Minister’s Chief of Staff from two developers, including a land site associated with a third developer.
Assessment criteria provided by the Housing Minister’s Chief of Staff were altered and facilitated the removal of land sites from the Greenbelt.
The proposal prepared by the Housing Ministry—signed and approved by the Deputy Minister of Housing and the Housing Minister, and provided to Cabinet (including the Premier) to inform the decision to change the Greenbelt’s boundary—did not clearly and correctly explain how the proposed land sites had been identified, assessed and selected for removal.
Based on our interviews, other political public service staff in the Minister’s Office, the Premier’s Office and non-political public service staff in Cabinet Office, indicated that they were similarly unaware of how specific properties were identified.
The government did not assess financial impacts such as serviceability costs, taxation impacts and land value impacts of Greenbelt boundary changes.
The 2022 Greenbelt amendments were made without regard for environmental and agricultural risks, were contrary to the Greenbelt Plan’s vision and goals of providing permanent protection to key agricultural lands and natural features, and may lead to adverse environmental and agricultural impacts.
The Province did not make sufficient efforts to consult the public in a meaningful way or to analyze all of the comments received from the public consultation process required by the Environmental Bill of Rights,
Finally, the AG suggested that the windfall profit to the developers was something like $8.3 Billion. What would you call that?
 Ray Rivers, a Gazette Contributing Editor, writes regularly applying his more than 25 years as a federal bureaucrat to his thinking. Rivers was once a candidate for provincial office in Burlington. He was the founder of the Burlington citizen committee on sustainability at a time when climate warming was a hotly debated subject. Ray has a post graduate degree in economics that he earned at the University of Ottawa. Tweet @rayzrivers
Background links:
AG Report AG News Release Oligarchy
By Pepper Parr
August 11th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
At the Press event earlier today a reporter from Canadian Press asked: “Given the questions that my fellow reporters have asked, you guys have acknowledged what’s in the report and accepted most of the recommendations, did what was necessary to address the affordability crisis and also talked about the previous government’s roles in this.
“I’d like to know why the regional planners and municipalities in your own Housing Task Force are on record saying that Greenbelt lands are not needed to achieve your 1.5 million housing, housing target. So what’s your reason for pushing ahead given all this?
Minister of Housing: “Well, you’ve got a housing affordability Taskforce, that reported 19 months ago Since that report you’ve had the federal government add to the number of new Canadians, which we want to welcome but we aren’t going to have housing for them.
 Premier and Minister of housing in Streetsville where they stick to their guns- housing, housing, housing.
Don’t take my word for it. TD economics the National Bank of Canada have all acknowledged that our numbers need to change. We need to have another 500 homes g built. And we need to be mindful of those other reports. We need to be mindful of the data we received from CMHC saying that the number might be closer to 1.8 million, – you know things are changing. There are forces that are out of our control, like interest rates.
We need to work with everyone, with municipal planners and municipalities. We need to work with the federal government on getting shovels in the ground and, to the Premier’s point about Burlington, we we need to have not approved projects. We need to have started projects, you’ll always hear me talk about housing starts. That’s the metric that our government needs, because you need to start that house to be able to build up at least 1.5 million.
Premier: “As the Minister said, that was 19 months ago. I didn’t know 19 months ago, we’re gonna have over 500,000 additional people show up. Supply and demand. We have to build more homes to at least level the market.
Premier asks the reporter: “I’m I’m just wondering if you own a home or if you rent? “You want to own a home. Every person in this area wants to own a home, and we’re going to do everything we can to make sure it’s attainable and affordable for people like yourself and other people to own a home on a condo and and rental purpose built rentals to we need. So that’s what we’re doing.
So despite all the experts saying that you don’t need to do this to build a 1.5 million homes.
Reporter: “You keep repeating the message.
Premier: “And I’m going to repeat our message – that was 19 months ago, 19 months ago. Then all of a sudden, more than 500,000 probably 800,000 have arrived in 19 months that we didn’t expect.
 Premier Ford: A singe message – we are building homes. “We didn’t expect 504,000 people to arrive here. Now no matter if you’re in running a government or running a business, you have to read and react. You have to move with the times. We have two choices. We can sit back and say forget about this housing plan and make it everyone for themselves. We never got elected on that. I’ll tell you what we got elected on 12 months ago, we got elected and we said it over and over in our campaign – We’re going to build homes. We’re going to build 1.5 million homes. We couldn’t be more clear on that we wrote every single day.
“And I don’t think 1.5 million is going to is going to be enough. I think we’re going to need probably 1.8 million. Either way. We’re going to continue building homes but thank you so much for that question.”
By Staff
August 11th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Public response to the stand the Premier has taken on the Auditor General’s report that slammed the Minister of Housing for the manner he handled the Greenbelt issue resulted in calls to local MPP Natalie Pierre.
 Natalie Pierre speaking in the Legislature Here is what the Gazette received:
Just called Natalie
Blasted very bluntly the poor sap who answered the phone. Told her to quote me to Natalie. Said her tweeting about ice cream doesn’t cut it I said it’s corrupt and Ford and Clark should resign. Said if Natalie had any integrity she’d resign too
Was told they would email me a response
They are going to have something to say very soon
Told them I didn’t want a form letter canned response sent by Ford’s minions.
 If the election were to be called today there is every reason to believe Natalie Pierre would be re-elected. The Liberals don’t even have a candidate – the Party doesn’t yet have a leader. There’s one vote the MPP isn’t going to get.
However, the Premier did a press event this morning – he stuck to his guns and it may have been enough to keep him in office.
We report on what the Premier had to say in a separate report.
 By Staff
August 11th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
The National Rent Report charts and analyzes monthly, quarterly and annual rates and trends in the rental market on a national, provincial, and municipal level.
Toronto finished second on the list of 35 cities for average monthly rent in July for a one-bedroom at $2,592 and third for average monthly rent for a two-bedroom at $3,370.
 Rent increases driven by demand which has increased inflation which pushes rental rates. Other Greater Toronto Area cities and areas include:
Mississauga came in fourth on the list of 35 cities for average monthly rent in July for a one-bedroom at $2,364 and $2,832 for a two-bedroom
Year over year, average monthly rent in July for a one-bedroom in Mississauga was up 20 per cent and up 18.3 per cent for a two-bedroom.
Richmond Hill finished fifth on the list with average monthly rent for a one-bedroom at $2,267, and average monthly rent for a two-bedroom was $2,567.
Burlington came in sixth for average monthly rent in July for a one-bedroom at $2,260 and $2,624 for a two-bedroom
Year over year, average monthly rent in July for a one-bedroom in Burlington was up 4.8% per cent and up 7.8 per cent for a two-bedroom.
Average Rents in Canada Reach a Record High
Average asking rent in Canada reached a new high of $2,078 in July according to the Rentals.ca and Urbanation latest National Rent Report.*
This represents a 8.9% annual increase, marking the fastest pace of growth over the past three months. A 1.8% hike in average asking rents compared to June represented the most rapid month-over-month increase in the last eight months.
Compared to July 2021, average asking rents in Canada have increased by 21%, translating to an additional $354 per month on average. Several factors have contributed to this rise, including a surge in post-secondary students signing leases before the fall term, population growth at an unprecedented level, and homebuyers temporarily sidelined by the Bank of Canada’s latest interest rate increase to a 22-year high.
“Canada’s rental market is currently facing a perfect storm of factors driving rents to new highs,” said Shaun Hildebrand, president of Urbanation. “These include the peak season for lease activity, an open border policy for new residents, quickly rising incomes, and the worst ever homeownership affordability conditions.”
 With rent rates close to sky high one might ask – why was this house torn down in the Beachway. The lot sits empty. For the first time, average asking rents for purpose-built condominiums and apartments rose above $2,000 in July, reaching $2,008. One-bedroom apartments lead the way, posting a 13% annual increase and a monthly rise of 2.5%. Regarding specific unit types, one-bedroom rents averaged $1,850, followed by two-bedroom units at $2,191, and three-bedroom units at $2,413. Among the more affordable options, studios averaged rents of $1,445.
Calgary’s rental market retained its distinction of having the fastest rent growth among Canada’s largest markets, with annual asking rents for purpose-built and condominium apartments up by 16.1% to $2,036, although it moderated from its 18.4% pace in June.
Meanwhile, Montreal surged ahead with a significant acceleration from 11.2% to 15.3% in July, establishing an average asking rent of $1,987.
The remainder of Canada’s largest markets witnessed a slower rate of annual rent growth in July. Toronto experienced an 11.5% increase in average asking rents (compared to 15.7% in June) to reach $2,849. Vancouver maintained the highest average asking rent among the largest markets at $3,340, reflecting a 12.2% annual rise and a 2.9% monthly increase.
The rent growth in Ontario was led by Brampton and Scarborough within the GTA, where average asking rents for purpose-built and condominium apartments saw increases of 18.6% and 18.2% respectively.
 By Staff
August 11th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
During the Premier’s news conference this morning, Matt Ingram CHCH news said:
 Premier want to help the Mayor “She is a good person”. Burlington Mayor Marianne Meade Ward rejects your claim that Burlington is not building houses fast enough. I’m wondering what you say to that and why you singled her out the other day.
Well, first of all, I really like Meed Ward, I think she’s doing a fabulous job. But when everyone else is hitting their targets of 90% 100% 80% 70 and Burlington is 5%.
 Premier wants to see more cranes working on development sites. I did have an opportunity to talk to Mayor Ward and she’s going to be getting together with me – next week I think and and we’re going to help her.
She’s not a bad person. She’s a really good person. Actually, we get along quite well. And she does a good job.
But the numbers aren’t there. Now, maybe they’re waiting for something. If we can help them out, then we’re going to help them out.
But when there’s just a glaring difference of 5% versus everyone else, all other 28 largest municipalities, we have to address it.
 By Pepper Parr
August 11th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
OPINION
More on that food chain and naturalized garden that the City weed-whacked recently
The belief on the part of staff at City hall that a bylaw was not being complied with are issues that “crop up” frequently.
What was astounding with the Karen Barnes situation was the decision on the part of the City to inform the holders of the mortgage she had on her property that she had not complied with a City bylaw.
Wow! That is egregious. That is mean spirited and we suspect illegal.
People who lend money want two things – they want their investment back with interest and they want to minimize their risk.
Interest rates are determined by the level of risk involved and the City of Burlington just told the money lenders that Karen Barnes was a bigger risk than they expected.
That is damnable.
We don’t know who made the decision to advise Barnes that they had sent a notice to her mortgage holder but we do believe that the work was done by the City’s legal department. They would have to search the title to determine who held the mortgage and then craft and send the letter.
 Brynn Nheiley, Executive Director of Community Planning, Regulation and Mobility was a part of the approving of the harsh decisions that were made. Why the City Solicitor didn’t advise Brynn Nheiley, Executive Director of Community Planning, Regulation and Mobility that it wasn’t a very good idea to send a letter like that is beyond me.
The timing of all this suggests that the work was done while Nancy Shea Nicol, now retired, was the City Solicitor at the time.
People like to feel that Staff at City hall are working for them – not against them. I wonder how Staff feel when they realize that someone has been treated in such a shabby manner.
The vegetation growing on Barnes’ front lawn and back yard wasn’t going to kill anyone.
 The Statement found a way to avoid the facts. The meanness that surrounds this is really very disturbing.
This is not what civilized, caring people do.
We wondered what the members of City Council would have to say when this became public – now we know where three of them stand. The Joint Statement made by the Mayor and Councillors Nisan and Bentivegna was a disappointment. The statement itself has all the earmarks of a Meed Ward communiqué. It is overly long and does not directly address the main issue at hand – the manner in which the City executed its perceived mandate.
Related news stories
The beginning – what had happened before the weed whackers arrived
How did this happen
Salt with Pepper is the musings, reflections and opinions of the publisher of the Burlington Gazette, an online newspaper that was formed in 2010 and is a member of the National Newsmedia Council.
By Staff
August 10th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
A new Brock University study aiming to learn more about how youth think about kindness is calling on teens to share their thoughts and experiences.
 Sandra Bosacki, Professor in the Faculty of Education and Director of Brock’s Theory of Mind in Education. The Mentalization, Kindness and Well-being Teen Study is part of a larger five-year research project led by Sandra Bosacki, Professor in the Faculty of Education and Director of Brock’s Theory of Mind in Education (ToME) Lab.
Funded by a Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council Insight Grant awarded to Bosacki and co-primary investigator Victoria Talwar at McGill University, the research is focused on adolescents’ mentalization skills, identity and well-being.
Bosacki and the research team are particularly interested in learning what comes to a teenager’s mind when thinking about kindness.
“It is of utmost importance to listen to the voices of youth about what they think the word ‘kindness’ means, how they think and feel about it, and how they express kindness to themselves and others,” she said.
Previous research from Bosacki’s ToME lab showed that some adolescents may tend to show more kindness and compassion to others versus showing it to themselves.
By allowing young people to describe their perceptions and experiences of kindness and compassion, the researchers hope to determine how educational programs can incorporate aspects of mentalization in the secondary school curriculum to promote overall well-being and emotional health as well as behaviour that benefits others.
 Victoria Talwar, McGill University, co-primary investigator “The first of its kind in Canada, the study will give researchers in Brock’s Department of Educational Studies a chance to explore how kindness plays a role in the links between mentalization and prosocial acts in young people,” Bosacki said.
Adolescents between the ages of 11 and 18 years old are invited to participate in the study. Each participant is required to have a personal email address and informed consent provided by one parent.
Participants will complete an online survey, which takes place using Qualtrics and over Microsoft Teams, lasts about 60 minutes, and involves watching short video clips and filling out questionnaires.
After the session is completed, participants’ parents will be sent a digital gift card and will have the opportunity to participate in a follow-up study next year.
Anyone interested in taking part can contact the Theory of Mind in Education lab by email at tomelab@brocku.ca
 By Staff
August 10th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
 Saturday, August 12, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Visit some of Burlington’s notable cultural and historical landmarks as they celebrate the City’s 150th anniversary. All in-person Doors Open Burlington sites offer FREE admission and onsite activities. This year, learn more about the Doors Open Ontario theme of Food as you explore Burlington’s culture and heritage!
The eight locations are set out below.
Click HERE for detailed information on each location. The Railway Club location has been a big hit for a lot of people
By Staff
April 10th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
At a press conference Thursday morning, municipal, provincial and transit officials introduced open payment to the TTC that will make riding public transit easier for those going into the city from Toronto and using public transit
 Tap with a debit card on the TTC. They hope this service improvement will bring back some of the riders that have failed to return to
TTC ridership is at 70 per cent of pre-COVID levels leaving a $366-million hole in its operating budget this year.
Riders on other transit systems across the GTA have been able to pay their fares by tapping a credit card since August 2022; debit payment was introduced in May.
Bringing open payment to the TTC — North America’s third-largest transit system — took longer because it required a “hardware refresh” for nearly 9,000 devices.
By Staff
August 10th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Digging into the data is what Municipal Budgets are all about.
 There was a time when public meetings were held; participants were given a short version of the budget and staff were om hand to answer questions. Members of Council will get a document that approaches 300 pages in length – that’s when they start in on the 2024 budget. As part of this annual work, residents and business owners are asked to share their feedback on City services that matter most. This feedback is presented to City Council to help them prioritize projects and services.
There is a survey on the 2024 Budget at www.getinvolvedburlington.ca/2024-budget.
The survey is open until Friday, Sept. 22, 2023.
More information about the budget and how it is prepared is shared in 2024 Budget Framework Report presented to Committee on June 26, 2023.
Key meeting and planning dates for the 2024 budget are:
June 26, 2023 – Budget Framework Report 2024 Budget Framework Report presented to Committee.
Open until Sept 22, 2023 – Budget Survey – Take the survey
Oct. 30 at 9:30 a.m. Corporate Services, Strategy, Risk and Accountability Committee: Overview of proposed 2024 Budget
Nov. 7 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. – Virtual Budget Town Hall
To discuss the proposed 2024 budget and take questions from residents.
 Joan Ford, Finance Director for the a City faces some serious challenges this time around convincing Council to cut back on spending. The amount of debt the city will carry is expected to be above what Ford has advised in the past. Nov. 21 & 23 at 9:30 a.m.
Review and approval of proposed 2024 Budget, including delegations from the public.
Dec. 12 at 9:30 a.m.
Meeting of Burlington City Council: City Council to consider approval of proposed 2024 Budget.
Just in time to determine if you are going to have any money left for Christmas.
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