 By Staff
June 21st, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Kelso Cove Waterpark opens on June 29th at the Kelso Reservoir!
Conservation Halton is celebrating summer with the opening of a new inflatable waterpark that is a 50′ x 170′ island offering visitors the chance to bounce their way through 26+ features and obstacles all under the watchful eyes of our NLS certified lifeguards.
 It’s an inflatable park set in the reservoir water. Get Tickets
In addition to Kelso Cove Waterpark, visitors can plan a full day of fun at Kelso Conservation Area including boat rentals, swimming, hiking, mountain biking, disc golf, picnicing, challenge course (including aerial ropes, climbing tower and archery), and more!
The waterpark will be open from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm with timeslots throughout the day to book, the last being at 5:00 pm. To avoid disappointment, it is recommended to prebook your visit online in advance.
This new attraction is one of many exciting things to do at Kelso Conservation Area! In addition to Kelso Cove Waterpark, visitors can plan a full day of fun at the park including boat rentals, swimming, hiking, mountain biking, disc golf, picnicing, challenge course (including aerial ropes, climbing tower and archery), and more!
 By Pepper Parr
June 21st, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
We learned yesterday that there were significant changes to the way staff are being organized. The title of Executive Director will no longer be used. That has been replaced by Commissioners – there are four of them. We have yet to learn the names of these Commissioners.
We reported earlier that there would be nine Commissioners, that was the information we were given.
When we received the org chart set out below – the number of Commissioners is just four with five other units headed up by a Chief. We don’t yet know who the person is behind the title.
 Related article:
First news from City hall – wasn’t totally correct
 By Pepper Parr
June 21st, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Things are getting interesting at Burlington’s public libraries. Phrases like “quiver in anticipation” now appear in some of the media releases.
There appears to be a new spokes person – Lady Paperback, who is promoting the offering of 100 extra digital loans of the Bridgerton novel that fans have been buzzing over since Netflix released its most recent season of the hit show. The Library will offer the bonus copies of “Romancing Mister Bridgerton”—the fourth novel in author Julia Quinn’s wildly popular regency romance series—starting June 21. They made the announcement in a cheeky social media video, inspired by Bridgerton’s sleuthing narrator, Lady Whistledown.
Dearest Gentle Reader,
It appears that the latest instalment of the Bridgerton television series has set the ton abuzz with excitement—Burling-TON, that is.
 “… quiver in anticipation…” So much so, in fact, that bibliophiles in our fine city are clamouring to read the novel that inspired much of this season’s tempestuous plot between Miss Penelope Featherington and Mr. Colin Bridgerton.
Reliable sources tell this author that more than 50 of you have requested a copy of Romancing Mister Bridgerton since Netflix dispensed its most recent masterpiece. You do love a passionate romance! What scandal.
Fear not, however, dear readers. I, unlike Lady Whistledown, would never reveal the names of those who seek to get their hands on this titillating tale.
While you quiver in anticipation of season four, might I suggest a frolic through the Library’s historical romance collection? You’ve plenty of time for reading whilst Shondaland crafts its next eight episodes.
See you in the stacks.
Yours truly, Lady Paperback
There is now a Reignited Interest in the Bridgerton Books. Burlington Public Library welcomes renewed interest in books sparked by the popularity of their television and movie adaptations. It’s a chance to introduce more people to the love of reading.
“People have strong feelings about books versus movie and TV adaptations, especially if they’ve read the book first,” says Elise Copps, BPL’s Director of Communications and Engagement. “But we see it as a chance to connect with folks who aren’t already avid readers. When a series or film based on a book surges in popularity, it creates a wonderful spin off of interest in the book.”
The Library has seen this phenomenon with titles and franchises including Bridgerton, of course, The Hunger Games, Where the Crawdads Sing, and many others.
Get Fast Access to Romancing Mister Bridgerton
The extra digital loans of “Romancing Mister Bridgerton” will be available on eBook and eAudiobook for BPL members starting June 21. Library cardholders can access them first come, first served, on the Library’s eBook platform, OverDrive and on OverDrive’s app, Libby.
Readers can also branch out beyond Bridgerton with a full list of regency romances, curated by Library staff.
By Staff
June 21st, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Starting tonight on June 21, Lakeshore West train service will be temporarily modified until end of service on Sunday, June 23 for critical track work that will bring faster, more frequent service across the network.
During this weekend, Lakeshore West rail service will only run hourly between Union Station and Oakville GO.
 There will be no GO Transit services at Appleby and Bronte GO stations. Customers traveling to and from those stations are encouraged to use local transit options.
Service between Oakville GO and West Harbour GO will be replaced by GO buses and the following Niagara Falls GO service adjustment will also occur during this time:
- Trains to and from Niagara Falls GO will only stop at Burlington, Aldershot, St. Catharines and Niagara Falls GO station.
GO Bus connection times will also be adjusted and there may be longer than usual wait times. Customers are encouraged to check schedules before travelling.
For more information about Lakeshore West line service adjustments, click HERE.
By Pepper Parr
June 21st, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Any opportunity to involve young people in what is taking place in the community has to be welcomed.
Like everything else this one has an acronym: – the MPP’s Youth Council (MPPYC).It’s a youth council spearheaded by Effie Triantafilopoulos, the Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) for Oakville North – Burlington.
 Comprised of high school students from the constituency, the council provides non-partisan advice on addressing key issues affecting youth in our area. Our primary goal is to empower young individuals, foster leadership development, and ensure their voices are heard and valued in decision-making processes.
How it can be non-partisan when it was formed by the sitting member of a political party is a stretch but at least the members are involved.
The group’s initiatives include:
Community Service Projects: Engaging in various community service activities such as tree planting, elderly care initiatives, and fundraising efforts for local charities.
Leadership Workshops: Hosting workshops focused on leadership development, communication skills, and teamwork.
Youth Forums/Discussions: Facilitating discussions where young people can express their opinions on local issues and propose solutions.
Advocacy Campaigns: Initiating campaigns on topics such as mental health awareness, education accessibility, and environmental sustainability.
Networking Events: Organizing social events and mentorship programs to connect young people with community leaders and professionals.
Educational Initiatives: Collaborating with schools to provide resources and workshops aimed at supporting academic success and career development.
The MPPYC is currently recruiting members for the inaugural cohort. Eligible candidates must be high school students in Oakville North – Burlington. The application period is open from June 1 to September 30, 2024.
Click HERE for MPPYC membership application form.
Arthur Chao is the Founder and President of MPPYC
By Eric Stern
June 20th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
What happens when you ask Burlington City Council for a zero percent tax increase, does the sky fall?
I learned recently that City council has decided that existing taxpayers are going to pay for services required by people who will be moving into new homes and condominiums in the not too distant future. Council has pledged to build 29,000 homes by 2031 when the population will have grown the city from 200,000 to 265,000 people. That’s a lot of community centers, arenas, cricket fields, and bike lanes. Yes, bike lanes because the stated policy is no road widening to handle increases in traffic volumes.
You can listen to the comments made by Hassaan Basit, our new city manager, Click HERE as he describes the chicken and egg problem council has solved by building out services now, before the population increases. It runs to four minutes + but if you want to understand why taxes are going to increase – this is an important read.
My question is: “if we pay, in advance through our property taxes for these new services, will we get a rebate when the development charges roll into the city coffers? We’ll pay for the new services and then learn to love gridlock as Burlington becomes Toronto without the subways.
Should existing residents be forced to pay for services for new residents? The mantra in Ontario has always been “growth pays for growth”, meaning development charges and property taxes from new housing pays for services for new residents.
“Growth pays for growth” is a slogan often repeated by municipal members of council in Ontario and used to justify Development Charges. It is a guiding principle indicating an intent to make buyers of new homes pay for the cost of expanding municipal services to their location, rather than making existing homeowners (and voter base) pay for it through increased property taxes and user fees. It is related to the principle of “benefiter pays”, meaning infrastructure costs should be paid by those who will use and benefit from the installation of the services.”
Mayor Meed Ward was in the practice of saying growth does not pay for growth.
Before everyone comments on how Doug Ford cut the development charges, and there were cuts to those charges for affordable and attainable housing, city hall is building out services well before developers are building housing. Look at the Bateman community center, a $100 million-plus investment.
If the Alinea project at Appleby and Fairview adds 25,000 new residents as reported here does that make Sherwood Park or developer-provided land within walking distance, a more logical place for a community center?
Google Maps estimates the walk time from Appleby and Fairview to Bateman at 25 minutes. With over 25,000 people living near Appleby and Fairview the drive time may be even longer. Want to hit the gym on the way to work, good luck, you’ll be stuck in traffic. My point is, if the city had waited for the population to increase, there may have been a more logical location for a new community center.
School Boards won’t build a school until enough children are in the neighbourhood. Are we, existing residents, willing to accept housing first and services second or are we willing to accept that we’ll pay for the services, for new residents, now instead of waiting for new residents along with their development charges and tax dollars?
In the linked video above the Mayor asks staff:
 Mayor Meed Ward asks: What a zero budget would do in terms of cutting service, or elsewhere, cutting capital, drawing down reserves and … Would people still want it knowing what that would mean. “So we had a delegate and several pieces of correspondence suggesting that we get to zero increase and I’m wondering whether staff can tell us what that would do because there are certain things that we’re committed to for example union contracts, that’s about half our staff, things have to go up for that, there’s inflationary pressures and so forth, so there are some costs that we’re committed to or you know we’re legislated to do so right away we’d be looking at cutting somewhere. Would people still want it knowing what that would mean, I don’t know if it’s possible for you to simulate what a zero budget would do in terms of cutting service, or elsewhere, cutting capital, drawing down reserves, I’d be interested to at least be able to share that with the committee because they have asked us and so we can say this is what it would be are you still on it, they may be, some may well be, they have other suggestions for where they’d like to cut.”
 City Manager Hassaan Basit “we are not a zero percent growth municipality that’s the simple answer.” Basit started his response with “.. it can be done, however we’re then going to get back into the sky is falling narrative because then it actually will be falling”.
Basit made it clear: “we are not a zero percent growth municipality – that’s the simple answer.”
Burlington accepted the province’s housing pledge. The province’s Building Faster fund will provide Burlington with money if the housing targets are met. The fund is providing $400 million a year, for three years, to the 29 communities that accepted the pledge and achieved over 80% of their annual target.
As of February 2024 here is how Burlington was doing:
 Our council jumps at every opportunity to build infrastructure and fights almost every development application. Between the current softness in the housing market and a potential glut of condos for sale in the GTA we may never meet the housing target, or leverage any of the provincial funds.
After Basit spoke, not a single councillor challenged the sky will fall narrative. Whose interests are our elected officials representing?
In the private sector ideas like a hiring freeze, or a no consultants policy, might be considered but in Burlington the sky will fall. We’ll have to wait to see what services will be cut, leaf collection, snow plowing, close the community centers … Thankfully water, sewer and garbage collection are still with Halton Region.
Here is an example. The live and play plan presented to our council on June 10th, 2024 is available here. The plan calls for a re-imaging of Central Park. The plan appears to be to tear down all the existing structures and build new ones.
I can’t find the costs associated with this plan. The community is asked for input without the costs being front and center. If Central Park is going to be reimagined through development charges then it might be something to think about, if Central Park is going to be reimagined through tax increases on existing residents then it might be something to not think about.
Pages 129 through 144 of the Live and Play Plan outline millions of dollars in external consulting costs, for many projects, but excludes construction estimates.
The engagement plans I have seen never start with – this project is expected to cost.
Another complaint, engagement plans rarely have a do-nothing option.
My last two questions:
What happens if all the new development takes much longer to materialize than our visionary council has imagined?
Who is leading the way we grow – city staff, council, or the electorate? Actually the province has determined the rate at which the population is going to grow. It is the city that determines how much money it has to raise through taxes to pay for that growth.
 By Staff
June 20th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Conservation Halton advises that up to 25 mm of rain has fallen over the past hour in isolated areas within our jurisdiction. Environment Canada has issued Severe Thunderstorm Warnings throughout Halton Region, citing that heavy downpours with total rainfall amounts in excess of 50 mm are possible this evening.
 Water levels in watershed creeks will rise significantly. Caution around the edges of creeks – especially with children. Widespread flooding is not anticipated, however fast flowing water and flooding of low-lying areas and natural floodplains may be expected.
Conservation Halton is asking all residents and children to keep a safe distance from all watercourses and structures such as bridges, culverts and dams. Elevated water levels, fast flowing water, and slippery conditions along stream banks continue to make these locations extremely dangerous. Please alert children in your care of these imminent dangers.
Conservation Halton will continue to monitor stream and weather conditions and will issue an update to this Watershed Condition Statement –Water Safety message as conditions warrant.
This Watershed Condition Statement will be in effect through Saturday June 22, 2024.
 By Staff
June 20th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The detail in this article is not correct. An org chart was released by the city earlier today that sets out the structure more clearly. We will revise thus article once we get more information from the Communications people at City Hall.
City hall has released a new corporate structure
New corporate structure changes the title of Executive Director to Commissioner. The title Director will remain.
Nine divisions have been created with a list of all the departments that will be in a Division. The responsibilities are also set out in detail.
There are no new positions created at the Commissioner level.
Pay-bands for these roles remain within the City’s established compensation framework – this has not changed.
The Head of Corporate Affairs is a senior administrative role that will oversee Communications & Engagement, Government Relations, and Audit – areas which were spread across multiple departments in the previous organizational structure.
Burlington’s leadership team remains at headcount neutral, meaning all roles are repurposed from existing positions, including retirements and other vacancies.
The compensation quoted in these postings is comparable to other senior executive roles on the market today. Our non-union compensation system is aligned to the 65th percentile of the market for comparable municipalities. This ensures we continue to attract and retain talented staff.
 Hassaan Basit, Chief Administrative Officer Chief Administrative Officer
The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) is responsible for providing corporate leadership for the general management of the corporation as well as participating in the overall stewardship of the municipality. The CAO reports directly to Council and oversees the following City departments and divisions.
There are nine Divisions in the City of Burlington Corporate structure
Burlington Digital Services Division
Burlington Digital Services
Responsible for internal technical support, including:
- Business application management and support
- Desktop hardware and software support
- Security
- Training and general consulting
Burlington Digital Services also manages the City’s:
- Data centres
- Email
- Internet access
- Network
- Telephone systems
Community Services Division
Customer Experience
Responsible for:
- Unifying City’s customer service initiatives.
- Improving and transforming our customers’ overall experience at the City.
Fire
Responsible for:
- Fire prevention education
- Fire safety inspections
- The prevention and suppression of fires
- Emergency and rescue services
Recreation, Community and Culture
Responsible for all matters relating to:
- Parks and facilities
- Recreation and culture services
Transit
Responsible for managing:
- Transit route network including scheduling, operations and maintenance of transit vehicles.
- Handi-Van paratransit system
Corporate Affairs Division
Communications and Engagement
Responsible for our brand and reputation management. Their roles include:
- Developing and implementing public engagement programs
- Developing a variety of communications materials, including print, web, video and social media
- Media relations
Government Relations
Responsible for:
- Providing advocacy and advice for the City of Burlington’s relations with all levels of government.
- Developing relationships and seeking funding with key government stakeholders to advance the city’s strategic priorities.
Internal Audit
The City Auditor is independent of the City of Burlington administration and reports directly to City Council through the Audit Committee, ensuring its work is completed freely and objectively.
Audits typically answer questions around:
- Efficiency and effectiveness of city operations and program delivery
- Safeguarding of assets
- Integrity and reliability of financial and operational information
- Compliance with laws and regulations
Development and Growth Management Division
Building
Responsible for:
- Building code information
- Building inspections
- Business licensing
- Building, plumbing, heating, swimming pool, septic system and sign permits
Burlington Land Partnerships
Responsible for:
- Addressing multiple areas of municipal strategic land management including acquisition and development.
- Achieving tangible and measurable community benefits and returns in three areas: supporting economic growth and direct job creation, completing “city building” projects and delivering much needed affordable housing.
By-Law Compliance
Responsible for:
- By-law enforcement
- Including by-law complaints and investigations
Community Planning
Responsible for:
- Niagara Escarpment Commission applications
- Our Official Plan and other planning policies that provide guidance for City development
- Parkway belt applications
- Rezoning applications
- Site plan applications
- Subdivision and condominium applications
Finance Division
Finance
Responsible for financial and accounting management including:
- Budgets
- Collecting taxes and other revenues
- Financial reporting
- Tax certificates and assessment review
- Tenders and general purchasing
Human Resources Division
Human Resources
Responsible for:
- Attracting and retaining City employees
- Employee benefits
- Employee health and safety
- Pay research
- Staff and labour relations
- Staff training and development
Legal and Legislative Services Division
Legal Services and Halton Court Services
Responsible for:
- Negotiating development and subdivision agreements
- Preparing business contracts
- Representing the City before the Ontario Municipal Board and courts
Legislative Services
Responsible for:
- Assessment rolls and bylaws
- Maintaining corporate records
- Conducting municipal elections
- Providing commissioner of oath services
- Providing support for Council and Committees
Public Works Division
Engineering Services
Responsible for managing:
- Coordination of corporate initiatives to green city operations
- Designing and construction of all roads, sidewalks, parks, open spaces, bridges and sewers
- Environmental issues
- Geomatics
- Infrastructure management and engineering reviews for subdivisions, site plans and re-zonings
- Policy development
Facilities, Assets, Sustainability
Responsible for:
- Design and construction of new facilities and capital renewal of existing facilities and building systems
- Long-term facility asset management and capital planning
- Energy management, monitoring and reporting, including the Climate Action Plan, the Corporate Energy and
- Emissions Management Plan. and the Climate Resilient Burlington – A Plan for Adapting to Our Warmer Wetter and Wilder Weather
- Support corporate environmental sustainability initiatives
Roads, Parks and Forestry
Responsible for the maintenance of:
- Streets and sidewalks
- Parks and playgrounds
- Storm sewers and creeks
- Snow clearing
- Forestry
- Cemetery operations
- City signs production
- Fleet services
Transportation Services
Responsible for the delivery of various road-related services. These services include:
- The traffic signal system
- Traffic services
- Transportation planning
- Parking bylaw enforcement
- Downtown parking
Transformation Division
Corporate Strategy and Business Improvement
Responsible for:
- Providing ongoing support and coordination of the vision, mission, values, goals and objectives in the City’s strategic planning.
- Building capabilities within the organization, through leadership and support of enterprise approaches, in innovation, project management, change and continuous improvement.
Risk Management
Responsible for:
- Improving the effectiveness of governance processes.
- Supporting the organization in the identification, assessment, and reporting of risks to strengthen the achievement of the City’s strategic priorities.
By Staff
June 20th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
 Get ready to embark on a summer reading adventure when Burlington Public Library’s Summer Reading Club registration opens on Saturday, June 22. This exciting reading club is for ages birth to 18. Read what you want – when you want – how you want. It’s free, it’s fun, and it’s easy.
Starting June 24 through to August 18, set your own weekly reading goal and strive to achieve it. This year, read a galaxy of books and discover new adventures along the way!
 Frances Hanemaayer, Manager, North Branches, holds a reading tracker participants receive with they register for BPL’s Summer Reading Club “When kids keep reading during summer vacation, they’re ready to jump back into the school routine in September,” says Lita Barrie, BPL Chief Executive Officer. “Setting a reasonable goal and achieving it is a great way for young people to build confidence in reading skills and in themselves.”
Rewards & Prizes Galore
Although reading a good book is its own reward, participants can visit their nearby branch every week with their Summer Reading Club (SRC) passport and check-in with Library staff. Share what you’ve read to receive a weekly giveaway prize and a chance to win a gift card to a local Burlington business.
Plus, every check-in gets you entered into the end-of-summer grand prize draw. Reach the halfway point of SRC, and you’ll receive a voucher to make a free button in the Library’s MakerSpace.
Stay Engaged with Weekly Staff Picks
To keep the momentum going over the eight-week program, we’ll send out freshly curated Staff Picks booklists to participants every week, along with a friendly reminder to check-in. These selections are sure to keep young readers and parents engaged and motivated.
“Summer Reading Club is an excellent way to reinforce a positive reading habit while also making the most of all the free programs for kids throughout the summer,” Barrie adds.
www.bpl.on.ca
By Pepper Parr
June 20th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Where does all the money you spend on lottery tickets go? A lot goes to the winners, some goes to the people who operate the Trillium Foundation and the rest is in a fund that gets distributed to community projects.
Able Sail in Burlington is one of the recipients and on Friday there will be a small presentation ceremony during which MPP Natalie Pierre will speak about the donation.
 Able Sail, formed in 2021, provides sailing opportunities and instruction for individuals with a physical or cognitive disability to enhance their quality of life and promote the integration of sailors with disabilities with able-bodied sailors.
The motto “If you can breathe, you can sail.”
This program offers an opportunity for people with physical disabilities to go out on the water and enjoy sailing! They are open to any person aged 7 and up with a physical or cognitive disability. They are well equipped to give people who have suffered from stroke or trauma or debilitating diseases such as MS an unforgettable experience. The Able Sail team is well-educated and we have adapted boats as well as custom equipment to transfer participants from wheelchairs into sailing boats.
The format is for One-hour sessions. 1 or 2 sailors per boat, depending on their skill level.
Fee Schedule
The first trial session is free. The rate for each sailor is $220 for the season.
Able Sail operates out of the LaSalle Park Marina
 “un-tippable and unsinkable”. The program focuses on the Martin 16 sailboat, which is equipped to cater to physically/cognitively challenged people of all ages. The boats are extremely stable and can be sailed with either a companion instructor in the stern seat or solo by individual sailors who have attained enough experience to “go it alone”.
The Martin 16 is a keelboat design; easy to maintain and stable in all conditions. The Martin is famous for being “un-tippable and unsinkable”. Sailors who want to advance their skills from casual day sailing to racing are taught the fundamental of sailboat racing under the tutorship of our trained crew.
This is one of those Trillium initiatives that make the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation a worthwhile part of the community. Know that when you buy a lottery ticket a lot of the money works its way back into the community.
 By Pepper Parr
June 20th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Few people understand just what the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) is in place to do.
It gets described as an unelected body that consistently fails to respond to what some people in a community want.
Understanding the rules will help in understanding the decisions the OLT makes.
The Millcroft decision disappointed just about everyone in that community. There were two community groups who were involved as participants. Unfortunately the two groups could not work as one which resulted in the Member admonishing one of the groups for using data that was shaped to create an impression that was not correct.
 Three lawyers representing the parties; two community groups that couldn’t agree on what the issue was – all focused on a community built around a golf course. The developers won – but there is a heavy price in what they are required to do when they start construction of what is now 90 homes – not the original 98. In making a decision with respect to an OPA, ZBA, and PoS appeals, the Tribunal must have regard to matters of provincial interest as set out in the Act.
The Act requires the Tribunal’s decision be consistent with the Provincial Policy Statement, 2020 (“PPS”) and conform to the applicable Growth Plan which, in this instance, is a Place to Grow: Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, 2019
When hearing Appeals related to Burlington the Tribunal has to first briefly summarize the policy scheme in regard to the previous OPA 117 and the new OP 2020 and the in-force-and-effect OP 1997.
Burlington’s most recent Official Plan is itself stuck at an OLT hearing that was brought about when more than a dozen developers appealed the Official Plan that was put in place by the current city council
At a recent hearing the Member said the following: (In the OLT world the person making the decision is referred to as a Member of a Tribunal)
“For the benefit of the members of the public that are here today, I would like to make a couple of general statements about the way the Board reaches its decisions. We can’t make decisions with our hearts, because once you do that, you make bad decisions. We do not make decisions arbitrarily because to do that, you need the wisdom of Solomon and very few people have that. What we do is get the facts which are obtained from the evidence or any reasonable inference that can be drawn from that evidence and then apply the law of the land, including approved government policy. Whatever decision we arrive at doing that is the one we are obliged to give.”
What this comes down to is the quality of the evidence that is given and how it stands up to both examination and cross-examination.
Each side then looks for the best witness they can find or afford. Good lawyers know how to ask the questions that will get the answers they need to make their case. At times not asking a question is the path taken.
All a Member can do is make a decision based on what they hear.
Unfortunately the rules the OLT have in place make it very difficult for media to report in depth. We are not allowed to record what is said, we are not allowed to use any of the visual material unless we obtain permission to do so – and we are required to get that permission BEFORE the hearing starts.
Given that we don’t know what is coming it is hard to be specific when asking for visual material.
In a future article we will give you examples of how strong legal talent can impact a decision made by a Member.
Related news stories:
OLT Member admonishes MAD
 By Staff
June 19th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
You read about an older trusting soul who loses a lot of the money they had in the bank to someone who tricked them into passing along banking information or getting duped into a scheme.
The police have not managed to catch many of the criminals.
Royal Bank of Canada did a survey and found that fewer Canadian seniors 55+ feel comfortable identifying when they are being scammed (65%), since last year (71%). With AI resulting in more sophisticated fraud attempts and less time and resources to recoup any lost funds, their top concern is unauthorized access to online accounts/personal information (89%), followed by identity theft (87%) and having their email/social media account hacked (84%), according to a recent RBC survey.
Adam Evans, Senior Vice President & Chief Information Security Officer at RBC, made the following points in a media release:
What should seniors be doing?
Identify a Trusted Ally – Speak with a close friend or family that can help you with security/technology questions.
Avoid Unknown numbers –Don’t pick up a call or answer a text if you don’t recognize the phone number or set phone to accept call from contacts only.
 Think before you click – Carefully examine emails, text messages, and websites for anything that looks suspicious and be sure a message is genuine before you interact.
Do not disclose personal information – Remember to never disclose any personal information or banking to strangers or unverified persons including PIN, One-Time Passcodes, and answers to digital banking Personal Verification Questions (PVQs)
Keep your mobile device secure –– Smartphones are smart, but they’re not always secure. Remember to install updates when they become available, uninstall unused apps, and always factory reset your device before returning it for service.
Develop an action plan – If something bad happens you should know exactly what steps to take to restore your privacy. This can include changing all of your passwords, contacting your bank or credit company, or asking a trusted ally for help dealing with the situation.
What is the worst ongoing scam at this time?
In 2023, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) reported that the grandparent/ emergency scam was one of the top 10 frauds based on dollar loss, at $11.3M.
 The grandparent scam is a highly pervasive fraud tactic, and very successful since it preys on a senior’s emotions and their desire to protect their loved ones. Grandparent scams involve a fraudster who poses as a loved one – typically a grandchild – claiming to be hurt or in trouble and that they need money immediately.
It’s important to remember that it is always Ok to question, pause and not act. A great rule of thumb is to take a few seconds and think about what is going on – taking that pause and questioning the situation can lead to quickly realizing that something doesn’t add up.
And if it doesn’t feel right – it probably isn’t.
By Staff
June 19th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
This came in from the media people at Metrolinx:
They list the GO lines that they expect will have problems with the tracks because of the heat wave we are dealing with.
They listed Barrie Line; Stouffville Line and Lakeshore East. They did not show Lakeshore West (that’s us). We reached out and asked if this was correct?
 GO Lakeshore West line – tracks don’t soften and the heat wave doesn’t impact the service. The response: “That’s right – currently, there are no impacts to Lakeshore West rail services due to the extreme heat. If anything changes we will keep you posted.”
How does that happen? Are they using a different kind of steel for the Lakeshore West line?
Does the heat wave stop before it gets to Oakville and Burlington?
Whatever – this is their story and they are going to stick with it.
None of the following applies to us.
During prolonged periods of high heat, rail tracks have the potential to soften and expand that require us to run trains at slower speeds. To ensure the safety of our customers and crew, slow orders are issued along the network which also reduce the risk of track damage.
As a result of ongoing heat patrols and slow orders, the following trips have been impacted:
Barrie Line:
Union Station 12:54 – Aurora GO 13:44 – Customers can take a GO bus from Union Station Bus Terminal running express to Rutherford GO, and making all stops north to Aurora GO.
- Aurora GO 15:04 – Union Station 15:54 – Customers can take a GO bus from Aurora GO, making all stops south to Rutherford GO station, and then running express to Union Station Bus Terminal.
- Customers travelling to and from Downsview GO are encouraged to use the TTC.
Stouffville Line:
Union Station 14:12 – Mount Joy GO 15:07 – Customers can take a GO bus from Union Station Bus Terminal running express to Unionville GO, and making all stops north to Mount Joy GO.
- Mount Joy GO 15:34 – Union Station 16:29 – Customers can take a GO bus from Mount Joy GO, making all stops south to Unionville GO station, and then running express to Union Station Bus Terminal.
- Customers travelling to and from Kennedy, Agincourt and Unionville GO are encouraged to take TTC.
Lakeshore East:
Union Station 15:20 – Durham College Oshawa GO 16:22 trip has been cancelled. Please consider taking the 14:50 or the 15:50 train departing at Union Station.
- Durham College Oshawa GO 16:40 – Union Station 17:42 trip has been cancelled. Please consider taking the 16:10 or the 17:10 train departing at Durham College Oshawa GO.
Kitchener Line:
The Bramalea GO 15:22 – Union Station 15:59 train will not stop at Etobicoke North GO today due to weather related track conditions.
Customers at Etobicoke North GO are encouraged to use local transit.
We know that heat-related delays can be frustrating for customers, however we must take proactive measures to ensure the GO Transit network operates safely in all kinds of weather conditions.
By Pepper Parr
June 19th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
We received the following from Councillor Shawna Stolte:
I would appreciate it if you could correct your article regarding my attendance at the Appleby/Fairview Alinea meeting earlier this week.
I was in attendance for the second half of the meeting and had many good conversations with area residents.
The room the meeting was held in was small and I would have recognized both Shawna Stolte and her Father. However, if she maintains she was there I will take her word for it.
The public pre-consult meeting on what is being called Appleby Go West held earlier this week turned out to be a lot of unhappy people stunned at the size of the development.
 Alinea Land Corporate statement.  The Planning consultants were there to explain the development and gather public reaction.  People had a lot of questions – few, if any, came away with a clear understanding of just what the site would do to the community they live in. The staff from Korsiak were on hand to explain what each of the more than a dozen poster boards meant. My conversations with Korsiak staff left me with the view that they were on hand to explain and leave with initial reactions to the proposed development. It was hard to find even one person who liked what they were looking at.
Burlington has taken on a commitment to add 29,00 households by 2031. This project would get them a big chunk of the commitment. However Burlington is at the 3% of the commitment level. Federal and provincial funds began to flow to the city once they reach certain levels.
There were a lot of people asking a lot of question. There was nothing on whether this was a condominium development or a rental development. There were no floor plans.
There is a web site for the development that has some additional material that we have included in this story.
 It’s massive. Is Burlington ready for something this big? Mayor Meed Ward was on hand along with Councillors Bentivegna, Nissan and Sharman. Kearns and Galbraith had no good reason for attending – we did not see Stolte, however others have said she was there with her Father.
 The Fearman pork processing plant is in the immediate area; it doesn’t appear on this illustration.
By Staff
June 19th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The Burlington Performance Arts Centre has an Interim Executive Director: Lucy White now has a city phone number and an email address she can be reached at while she keeps the wheels moving.
The Board realized that it had to have someone in place to keep the the doors open while the Board gets on with the search for a permanent Executive Director with experience in running a theatre with two stages.
Then they have to develop a Strategic Plan – the one they have is outdated – not a word about the Sound of Music in that document.
Fox, who apparently developed the relationship with the Sound of Music on her own, explaining that it was an operational decision that didn’t need Board approval.
 Celebrating the start of a new Performing Arts season Tammy Fox had everything you could ask for in the way of a skill set; the reasons behind the very abrupt resignation are not yet clear. Rumours are swirling within the arts community on what really happened; they include personal relationships getting in the way of doing the job to funds being moved inappropriately from the Sound of Music that is now “presented” by the Performing Arts Centre.
Those with knowledge of what did take place are not prepared to be named. “This is too small a community to go public in” said one person we discussed this with.
 Many thought this photograph sent the wrong message. There are still some financial issues to be resolved; including the untangling of the who paid for what and when and how much did the Board of Director’s know.
Everyone just wants to put this behind them and get it off the front page. So much for transparency and accountability.
The City had to loan the Sound of Music (SoM) $125,000 if needed and six months to pay it back and have agreed to working with the city to get some Governance in place at the Sound of Music.
During the debate last week approving the loan we got a clearer sense as to just what the problem was and why Sound of Music had a problem.
Dave Shepperd, now the Chair of Sound of Music, spoke at the Special Council meeting last Tuesday.
The back and forth on that debate is set out below.
It seemed pretty clear that the City wants to get back into bed with the SoM – what impact will that have on the “presenter status BPAC is unknown. The word BPAC was never mentioned at the Special Council meeting
 Dave Sheppard taking part in a Special Council meeting virtually from his van. David Shepherd appeared today, representing the Sound of Music Festival, and spoke virtually from his van regarding the loan request.
Shepherd. “We are at the park today, getting ready for the festival. In regards to the item on the agenda. We were asking the city for a bridge loan to get us through the next few weeks. We were behind schedule with all the changes in our leadership and staff at the sound of music over the last month, and to be quite honest, we were late in getting a grant into the MCTS. It was finally put in just over a week and a half ago, but it’s going to be at least two weeks before we see the funding.
“The loan funding, in essence, gives us financial cash flow through the festival to take care of our vendors at the time of the of the festival. Our cash come in after the festival. So in order for us to make sure that the entertainers are paid immediately before they go on to the stage, we have to have that cash in hand. So we’re asking for a, in essence, a bridge loan of 125k to be paid back as soon as we can get approval from our MCTs grant that we put in,
“We have a close relationship with the with the MPP office, Natalie Pierre, we are expecting that this to be no longer than two weeks for processing. It’s kind of where we stand. I think that’s the situation we’re in.
“Going forward, our plans, with myself as chair. I plan to stay on for as long as it’ll have me and really see the festival continue to get stronger and better with a new board that started already to come in with two new board members join to really strengthen our board matrix, our skills matrix, and really get back to a governance situation, instead of an operational board, and let the volunteers and the city members that run the festival really get back to what they do best.
Lisa Kearns: You’ll probably hear this theme through your delegation. You did mention that the board is currently in an operational status, and more likely than not, the City of Burlington looks to have boards maintaining a governance position. What steps are you open to taking to get back to that governance positioning of the board?
Sheppard: The intent is to get back to that governance state – we’ve looked at over the last couple of weeks of what needs to be done to get to their post festival. Our board will meet to start looking for a full time executive director so we can get back to that state where we have a full time staff and running the festival, and the board can go back to not being an operational and running the show.
“There was some turnover last year. Unfortunately, it happens, but at the time, we thought it was doable, and we learned it wasn’t to be an operational board. So the board members that we brought on over the last month, are aligned with it as well, and have governance and experience as well. So our board members that we have currently, and the new recruits that we brought on are all on board with going back to governance and having a full time staff running the festival.
 Councillor Lisa Kearns taking part virtually and hearing what she heard at about the same time last year. Kearns: And then, just quite simply, for anyone tuning in, if this isn’t approved by Council today, what may you forecast as consequence,
Sheppard: we may have bands walk off the stage or not start at all – to be blunt, that would be worst case scenario.
Kearns: Appreciate that clarity.
 Councillor Sharman brought up the question of reputational risk;not something he wanted to see the city take on. Councillor Sharman: You just caused us to think about reputational risk. Because somebody will be saying the city didn’t lend us the money and we couldn’t pay. That actually leads to my question about exactly reputational risk, and the fact that depending on the city to bail out sound of music again, which I’m sure is not something you would ever want to do. While recognizing the Sound of Music is a fundamentally important and iconic event within the city. To what degree are you thinking we might create a more formal relationship with the city, between the city and the board. I think that’s something that’s 100% needs to be talked about.
Sheppard: the current board of directors, you know, has spoken to that, so I can’t speak for the past, I can only speak for going forward, and that. is definitely something that, you know, we would definitely look at. . Natural partnership. It makes sense. We’re here together, promoting this great city, it only makes sense for, for us as a not for profit organization to be partners with the city. I think it’s one hundred percent something that our board wants to to look into.
Sharman: I know that Emilie Cote is interested in, or is already talking to you. Presumably there would be conditions associated with that, Dave, are you willing to consider those? I think this condition, with both partnerships, whether it’s marriage, or a city, not for profit, relationship, I think we have to look at all. We have to look at all options that are going to be on the table for this to continue to be a success. Thank you, parting words, I believe, one way or the other. We’re together on this. And we have to, therefore, figure it out.
 Councillor Bentivegna asked Sheppard how long he has been Chair of the SoM. Councillor Bentivegna: Just for clarity, so that everyone understands, how long have you been the Executive Director for the sound of music,
Sheppard: four weeks.
I’ve been doing this for more than 18 months already. Know, we have a great board, a great of people. The volunteers are just the best. So it was natural for for me to say, I want to be part of this and step up and help lead. I’ve been a Burlington resident for 20 years. It seemed like a no brainer.
Meed Ward: “There have been periodic times that the sound of music would come forward for an increase in grant or funding, and we would see their financials occasionally. And at one time they had some fairly significant reserves because of the cash business that you’re in, you have to pay it all up front. You don’t get it back until, maybe even after the festival, or whenever the grants come in. So we understand the the situation. So if you can speak to it, what’s the state of your reserves? They’re not at a level of previous years, when I think there was enough to cover off termination and severance for the full time staff when we did have full time staff.
Sheppard: We do have a small reserve. It’s not six figures, I’ll say it’s in the five figures. It’s enough to keep us going, but not long term. So our festival is depended on funding from our weekend and sales,
Sharman: Let’s be honest about long term plans. I mean, we need to look at all options as a festival committee to say what is best to keep this a viable option, obviously looking for partnerships with the city. But there also needs to be tough conversations about, you know, what are the prices we need to look at.
Shepperd: Certain things need to be charged, perhaps, but we need to keep all options on the table to be a self sustaining festival. To be quite honest, that’s my outlook on it, and I think the rest of the board looks that way as well. We don’t want to come back to the city and ask for money. That’s not something that’s on our agenda to do. So I think, you know, from a reserve point of view if we have to dip into it, we would, but at some point, you know, as a festival, we have to say, Is it, a viable option to continue the way we are, compared to what’s needed going forward in this world of free festivals.
Sharman: I was really pleased to hear your remarks about governance and that you’re looking to rehire the staff to deliver this. My one question is around the board, and I don’t have it in front of me and sorry, my memory isn’t as good as it once was. I know we have a council liaison on the board. Are there any city staff we have that relationship with some of our other boards, like art gallery or BPAC.
WHO Shepperd: I think we have a city staff person as well on a board. Do we have that now? Is there a city staff appointee on the board? I know you have a very good working relationship with our festivals and events team, but just curious.
Sheppard: No, we have no city staff on the board. You’re absolutely right. We have a great relationship with the festivals and events team, and they’re great people. But no, the only, the only city employee, I guess, would be Council Kearns.
Councillor Sharman: “Emilie and I had a brief chat about it. But as we move forward beyond this. What are the options of getting the getting the Sounded Music to work with this in the line with the Agencies, Board and Commissions (ABC) logic.
 Emilie Cote: Director Recreation Parks and Culture Cote:It’s absolutely something Dave is aware of the ABC and JV, I can’t really framework that council will have to approve it – we’re on the same page. So the plan is to have staff report back in the fall with some options on and go forward basis. That’s all.
Councillor Kearns: The predicament – are there any other recommendations staff might have to explore at this time, or is this the most time appropriate solution to the challenge that’s been presented?
Cote: I think you’re speaking about the current financial situation. I think just given days away from the festival. I don’t think there’s any other options at this point.
Kearns: My second question is, we were here last year, and I said, I never want to be here again, but we are here again. Do you feel comfortable that after this year, with enough diligence, we can not hit a hat trick and be here days before a festival with a cash flow situation next year – is staff prepared to support that?
Cote: . I think you know, as you heard through the Festival and Event policy and the work that we’re doing, staff are committed to support event organizers like this. This is an important event for the City of Burlington. So you have our commitment in terms of working with them to find ways to sustainability. Dave is the right person. I’m just so impressed at the work that he and the board have done to put this festival on. We are a committed partner. We will work through the ABC framework. I think it goes back to role clarity. We need to have clear definition around who’s responsible for what moving forward, and I think all the options are on the table. I think free festival of this size is amazing that we have that, but there needs to be ways to be able to fund that, whether it’s through, you know, grants, or through ticketed events, like Dave mentioned. So we’re willing to work with them to look at some of those options. And again, we’ll be reporting back in the fall.
 Rory Nisan: I’ll be in the beer tent every day of the festival.” Councillor, Nissan: Emily. Are you able to share with us now or later? Perhaps this would be a post event report back on how much unanticipated staff time has had to be spent due to unanticipated requirements from sound and music above and beyond the usual.
Cote: Certainly this year, we’ve been a very good partner. We’ve stepped in. Definitely. It was all hands on deck. We’re making it happen. We’ll include some of those details back in that fall report.
The report was moved, comments followed.
Councillor Nisan said he was pleased to announce that “I’ll be in the beer tent every day of the festival, and I call on my colleagues to do the same.
Mayor Meed Ward: Are you buying?
Interesting way to adjourn a meeting.
By Eric Stern
June 19th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Many Burlington residents have joined the “STOP the 2025 Burlington Property Tax Increases”. They see 8.9% as the number being used by the Finance department as they prepare the 2024-2025 budget.
Those opposed to tax increases use Next Door, a social media platform where they exchange ideas and register their concerns. It is a different kind of citizen engagement.
 Eric Stern If you are interested in joining the group follow the link HERE
One Next Door member, Lynn K., shared an email she wrote to “the office of the mayor” along with the response from Hannelie van Niekerk who is part of the four member team in the Mayor’s office.
Here are a few quotes from Lynn’s email to the city.
“Do you care about what you are doing to the personal financial hardships of the residents in your wards?”
“The 2024 tax increase was a slap in the face with broken promises and outright lies, spinning the numbers hoping nobody would notice the real increase.”
“As a retired career banker of almost 40 years, I have worked through every phase of the inflation/recession cycle.”
The paragraphs below, set out in bold typeface are from Hannelie van Niekerk on behalf of the mayor:
“It is important to clarify that the percentages for the years mentioned were not tax increases, but instead changes in the budget – net of all revenues. The 10.2% quoted below is, again, not the tax increase for 2024, but the budget increase. The City’s impact on your overall 2024 tax bill was 4.99%, which were added on top of the Halton Region and Education contributions to total the overall 6.58%.”
As we all know the M-Municipal line on our “final” June 2024 tax bill went up 10.21%. My tax bill, and I’m sure yours as well, went up 7.07% in total after including the other increases (Halton Region and Halton Police and the Boards of Education).
 Mayor Meed Ward in her City Hall office. The Office of the Mayor has omitted the Halton Police tax increase so the information provided on the overall increase is simply wrong. In my opinion, there is a strong argument to say that calling a 10.21% budget increase a 4.99% tax impact involves some magical thinking. Of course, Hannelie did use the word “impact” and, according to the city’s integrity commissioner, that makes these statements ok.
“Every year, the Mayor does a line by line review of the suggested budget proposed by staff, to see where possible cuts or improvements can be made to the City’s portion of the final tax bill. In 2024, this brought the tax percentage down with 1%. For the 2024 budget, the Mayor and Council brought forward 62 proposed amendments to the budget – a culmination of cuts, neutral motions, and additions. A total of 27 were approved that brought the tax impact for the City portion of the property tax bill to the above mentioned 4.99%.”
I looked at the mayor’s budget as soon as it was released. I did the reverse calculations and determined the budget was increasing by 10.21%. I went on record and delegated on this subject on Nov. 2, 2023, Lori Jivan (Coordinator of Budgets and Policy) confirmed the 10.21% budget increase. The M-Municapl line on my June 2024 final tax bill, and other people’s bills, went up 10.21%. All of the voting our councillors did had no impact on the tax change but they did provide a wonderful show for us to watch on the live-stream.
“Finally, I wanted to mention that Burlington’s tax rate has been below the average increase, compared to municipalities in the area. Please visit this link to read more, click on the Staff Presentation link and refer to page 34 for more details.”
The link takes you to the mayor’s personal website. The chart shows tax rates for a bungalow from hand-picked communities.
“Below average increase” with emphasis on the word increase, the chart does not show increases but tax burdens. The paragraph is worded to give the impression that Burlington has below-average increases when in reality Burlington is increasing its budget by some of the largest percentages in Ontario.
“Regarding new staff: there were not 111 new hires. A number of these positions were existing positions that were vacant due to staff changes/promotions, etc. Only 30 new positions were funded in the budget, including new bylaw officers, transit drivers, community centre operators.”
Page 726 of the “2024 Financial Needs and Multi-Year Forecast” available on the city’s website, a document which some residents refer to as war and peace, shows 68 new full-time and 3.4 new part-time positions were added from 2022. Considering that the tax percentage started at 10.21% in the strong mayor’s budget document and ended at 10.21% on my tax bill, how are we expected to believe the number of hires was reduced? The 111 number comes from the “2025 financial needs and multi-year forecast” available on the city’s website that states:
“A significant risk to the corporation is the attraction and retention of talent and this reality has been a focus in 2024 where to date we have already hired 111 staff and currently have 57 unfilled vacancies.”
 The data shown came from the City Finance department. I know I have become a broken record, 10.21%, 10.21% – I remain stunned that the city can’t own up to its significant tax increases using plain language. I am bothered as well with the practice used in the Office of the Mayor that has staff passing along prepared statements.
Related news articles:
The tax increases
More on tax increases
By Fredrik Andersson
June 18th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Remote work has surged in popularity over the past few years, driven by technological advancements and evolving work cultures. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this shift, making remote work not just a temporary measure but a long-term trend. Companies and employees alike have recognized the benefits of working from home, from increased productivity to a better work-life balance.
 Well appointed furnishings that reflect the standing you have becasue of the work you do. The rise of remote work has also led to a significant change in how people set up their home offices. Gone are the days of makeshift workstations on kitchen tables. Today, employees are investing in creating personalized and functional home office spaces. This trend includes a focus on aesthetics, with many choosing to decorate their workspaces with prints and other art pieces. But why is this shift happening, and what does it mean for our urban environments and personal well-being?
The impact on urban living
The move to remote work is transforming urban living in profound ways. One of the most noticeable changes is in housing demand. With the need to commute reduced or eliminated, many people are choosing to live further away from city centers. Suburban and rural areas have seen a spike in housing demand as remote workers seek more space and a quieter environment.
This shift has economic implications for cities. Urban centers that once thrived on the daily influx of workers are experiencing a decline in foot traffic. This change affects local businesses, public transportation systems, and even real estate markets. Cities are now grappling with how to repurpose vacant office spaces and adapt to a new urban reality.
Urban planning is also evolving in response to these changes. City planners are rethinking the use of urban spaces, focusing on creating more mixed-use developments that combine residential, commercial, and recreational areas. The goal is to make cities more adaptable to the needs of remote workers, who may still want access to urban amenities without the daily commute.
Home office setups: a new focus on aesthetics
 Early in the pandemic this was what working at home amounted to – things have changed. As remote work becomes more permanent, employees are paying more attention to their home office setups. A functional and visually appealing workspace can significantly impact productivity and overall job satisfaction. Ergonomics play a crucial role, with many investing in adjustable chairs, standing desks, and other equipment to ensure comfort during long work hours.
Natural lighting is another essential element of a good home office. Studies have shown that exposure to natural light can boost mood, energy levels, and productivity. Therefore, many remote workers are setting up their workspaces near windows or using daylight lamps to mimic natural light.
The psychological benefits of a well-decorated workspace
The psychological impact of a well-decorated home office should not be underestimated. A visually pleasing workspace can enhance mood, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. This effect is particularly important for remote workers, who spend a significant portion of their day in their home offices.
 Plenty of natural light and decor that relaxes. Research supports the idea that workspace aesthetics can influence mental health. A study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that individuals working in well-decorated environments reported higher levels of job satisfaction and lower levels of stress. The presence of art and personal items in the workspace was linked to positive emotions and a sense of belonging.
Prints and other decorative elements can also serve as sources of inspiration and motivation. For example, a print featuring a favourite quote or an image of a serene landscape can provide a mental break and a moment of relaxation during a busy workday. These small touches can make a big difference in how remote workers feel about their work environment.
By Staff
June 18th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Earlier today Mayor Marianne Meed Ward posted the following on social media:
Last October our world was turned upside down with a diagnosis of cancer. But today is full of hope and gratefulness for our future. My beautiful husband Pete had the last of five weeks of radiation therapy and we celebrated by ringing the bell.
The treatment is working and our hearts are full.
We are on a new journey as a family, and we not alone. We thank everyone who has walked this new path with us, providing support, encouragement, advice, understanding and compassion, especially the caring staff at Juravinski Cancer Centre.
To many more wonderful years together!
By Pepper Parr
June 18th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
It was a short Council meeting.
 Mayor Meed Ward applauding Gordon Schottlander during a Citizen recognition event. Three group photo ops took place
It was also a very emotional meeting for Mayor Meed Ward. As she was recognizing Gordon Schottlander Marianne had to pause and take several moments to collect herself before she could continue.
Among the groups recognized were: Burlington Historical Society, 2024 Special Olympics Ontario and Gordon Schottlander who was recognized as the Ontario Senior Citizen of the year.
 Mayor Meed Ward said: Earlier this past year, I nominated Mr Gordon Shawn lander as Ontario’s senior of the year. This award honours one outstanding local Ontarian who, after the age of 65 enriches the social, cultural or civic life of his or her community. I couldn’t think of anyone more deserving than our very own, Gordon Schottlander. MrSchottlander served as a soldier in World War II , valiantly fighting for our freedoms and peace as a 19 year old young man who, 80 years ago, this month, he landed on Juno Beach and fought bravely alongside Canadian soldiers as part of the D Day invasion that would lead to the successful end of the Second World War. He later came to Canada with his wife, Colleen, building a big and wonderful family here that now includes four sons, 16 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren. His many accomplishments include President of the Junior Chamber of Commerce, chairman of the Burlington Planning Board, serving with the Knights of Columbus for many years, chairman of the committee that raised over $1 million for the local YMCA. He was named as Burlington citizen of the year 1968 and received the key to the city in 2020 he continues to make Burlington his home, living in the Aldershot area.
 I have a few remarks regarding the Historical Society proclamation, and I have a certificate to present to Don Thorpe, who is representing the Historical Society. The Burlington Historical Society was founded in 1899 and is an affiliated member of the Ontario Historical Society. Their mission is to preserve and share Burlington’s past for the enjoyment and education of the community, making our history accessible and relevant for today while nurturing interest in future generations. The effort shown by the Burlington Historical Society today will inspire the generations of tomorrow to continue the traditions of community service. Thank you for the devotion to preserve Burlington’s heritage and history for 125 years.
 Our final recognition this morning is for our Special Olympics team, and thank you for joining us. Those of you who could be here this morning the Special Olympics Ontario Spring Games 2024 was hosted in Waterloo Region from May 23 to 26 these games are a testament to the resilience and determination of the athletes who participated in basketball, rhythmic gymnastics, 10 pin bowling and swimming. We are so proud of all of you.
 By Ray Rivers
June 18th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
OPINION
Wasting public funds is something for which all governments have been accused. And Doug Ford’s governance is hardly an exception. The current tangled mess is a consequence of the Premier’s preoccupation, which we can only guess at, with choosing a private international company to take over much of the land at Ontario Place. There, they will build a Spa, mostly, for the well heeled, as part of a 95 year unbreakable contract.
 The buyers got the deal of 20th century and the public got the shaft…. For the next 99 years. This whole affair is just so Deja Vu! Giving up a public roadway to a private foreign outfit, sealed with an unbreakable 99 year contract, was one of Mike Harris’ sad parting gifts to the people of Ontario. Building the 407 at public expense had been intended to ease traffic on the 401. But with high and ever increasing 407 toll rates the 407 has had a negligible effect on gridlock in the GTA. On the cusp of an election, a desperate Harris sold/leased the rights to operate the 407 for a measly three billion dollars just so he could claim he balanced his last budget. The buyers got the deal of 20th century and the public got the shaft…. For the next 99 years.
 Premier Ford – determined to have beer sold in convenience stores and gas stations Apparently, as part of the Ontario Place/Spa deal Ford had committed to build a multi-million dollar garage to accommodate the Spa’s customers. For a government running a $10 billion deficit, spending money to help a private sector Spa improve its bottom line was not going to escape criticism. After all, the Premier was already spilling tax dollars, what the Liberals figure will end up being a billion dollars, just so corner stores can get beer on their shelves a year earlier than planned, and before the next provincial election.
The Ontario Science Centre, a provincial body, had been deliberately let go into disrepair over the last half decade. And Mr. Ford must have figured that relocating it next to the Spa would be a win-win. The new garage for the relocated science could be oversized so the spa folks could use it as well – thereby killing two birds with one stone, so to speak.
Mr. Ford must have felt guilty about this shell game though, so his government paid consultants almost a million dollars to find an economic justification for the relocation. And the consultants did what they had been told, and this so-called business case justification is right full of holes. They played fast and loose with their numbers, under-estimating the relocation costs while over-estimating, nearly doubling, the costs of restoration of the science centre at the existing site as an alternative.
 With his Cabinet lined up behind him Premier Ford announces that he will scrap the plans he had for developing some of the Greenbelt. The Auditor General, the NDP opposition, the Globe and Mail and even architects have called Ford out on this slimy deal and wasting a million big ones on the fake study. But unlike his misadventure with the provincial Green Belt Doug Ford is not going to be deterred.
 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:
Ontario Place for All of US – Save the Science Centre – Beer Bamboozle –
Critics– Business Case – More Business Case – Architects – Ontario Place –
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