 By Pepper Parr
November 16th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
See what is set out in the piece below as one of those early warning signs.
We are still in the midst of a pandemic and we have to deal with that fact.
Community Living, an agency that is committed to meaningful inclusion in our community of people who have a developmental disability, reports that they are currently experiencing a challenging respiratory illness season. There are several viruses circulating in our community including COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza. We are seeing an increase in illness from RSV compared to previous years and influenza season began a month earlier than expected.
The healthcare system is reporting an increase in severity of illness from these viruses. We are also seeing a huge spike in COVID-19 cases for our employees and the people we support.
As we have done for over 2.5 years, we will continue to use all layers of protection to keep all stakeholders safe.
These layers include:
: Masking at all times
: Daily screening
: Rapid antigen testing of employees 3 times a week
: 10 day isolation when someone (staff or person supported tests positive)
The flu vaccine is designed to protect against strains of the influenza virus that are circulating during influenza season. The vaccine stimulates the body’s immune system to build antibodies against influenza, making it stronger and ready to fight off the illness before it starts. This year’s vaccine appears to be a good match to the circulating strain of the virus. Everyone can receive the flu vaccine at no cost by booking an appointment at their doctor’s office, or a local pharmacy, or a walk-in clinic.
Children under 2 years of age must visit their doctor to receive the flu vaccine. Flu vaccines do not provide protection against COVID-19 virus.
COVID-19 Vaccines: Bivalent vaccines are readily available and we strongly recommend that everyone gets this extra blanket of protection.
 By Pepper Parr
November 16th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
This shouldn’t come as a surprise.
The Ontario government is introducing new legislation that would, if passed, take decisive action to address the housing crisis by assessing how best to extend strong mayor powers and reduce municipal duplication in order to deliver on shared provincial-municipal priorities – primarily the building of 1.5 million new homes over the next 10 years. The proposed changes would also provide an additional tool to the mayors of Toronto and Ottawa to deliver on these shared priorities.
The Better Municipal Governance Act, 2022 includes proposed changes to the Municipal Act, and other Acts, to help large, urban municipalities better meet the needs of their rapidly growing communities.
Explore the Expansion of the Strong Mayors Tools in Certain Regions
 Premier Ford laying it out in the provincial Legislature As the province considers how to best extend the tools provided for in the Strong Mayors, Building Homes Act to some of Ontario’s fastest-growing municipalities, provincially-appointed facilitators will assess the regional governments in Durham, Halton, Niagara, Peel, Waterloo and York. They will be tasked with determining the best mix of roles and responsibilities between the upper and lower-tier municipalities in those regions, and ensuring they are equipped to deliver on the government’s commitment to build 1.5 million homes over the next 10 years in order to address the housing supply crisis.
Establish Regulation-Making Authorities for the New By-law Power
 The proposed legislation, if passed, would allow the Lieutenant Governor in Council to prescribe the provincial priorities for which the new mayoral by-law powers could be used. The proposed legislation would also allow the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing to make regulations that establish rules related to the by-law power.
The government plans on making accompanying regulations to set out current provincial priorities. These priorities could include building 1.5 million new homes in 10 years to address the housing supply crisis, and the construction and maintenance of infrastructure, such as transit and roads, to support new and existing housing development.
Three years after abandoning a push for regional reform, Municipal Affairs Minister Steve Clark has tabled legislation Wednesday that would revamp how that layer of government works in the regions of Peel, York, Durham, Halton, Niagara and Waterloo.
 The We Love Burlington group taking their case to Queen’s Park Clark said the proposed moves — which are designed to eliminate bureaucratic duplication between regions and the cities within them — are needed for the Tories to keep their campaign pledge to build 1.5 million new houses in Ontario over the next decade.
“These bold actions are necessary if our government is to keep its commitment to Ontarians and remove the obstacles standing in the way of much-needed housing,” said Clark.
 Premier Doug Ford “That’s why we are again taking decisive action to provide municipal leaders the tools they need to plan for future population growth and get more homes built faster.”
To that end, the province will appoint “facilitators (to) work with local governments to assess the best mix of roles and responsibilities between upper and lower-tier municipalities.”
Halton will elect their chairs for the new council term that ends in 2026.
The Better Municipal Governance Act is sure to be contentious in some quarters.
It would allow Queen’s Park “to prescribe the provincial priorities for which the new mayoral bylaw powers could be used,” suggesting local councils could have even less power than thought.
 By Pepper Parr
November 16th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
During the Inaugurations of the 2022-2026 city council last night Mayor Marianne Meed Ward announced the creation of Deputy Mayors with each member of Council having a specific portfolio.
She likened these to federal Cabinet level portfolios
 Ward 1 Councillor Kelvin Galbraith being sworn in Ward 1 Councillor Kelvin Galbraith will be responsible for the removal of red tape, better delivery of permits and working with the agricultural community to ensure a robust agricultural economy.
Ward 2 Councillor Lisa Kearns has been given the Community Engagement and Participation portfolio where she will review the current community engagement model and the Advisory Committee model. Working with the Recreation portfolio Deputy Mayor is included in the work Kearns is expected to do.
Rory Nisan is Deputy Mayor for Environment will focus on the role of Conservation Halton, overseeing the Climate Emergency matters and transit.
He will wok on the Climate action plan and restart conversations with the Boards of Education on free transit for students.
Ward 4 Councillor Shawna Stolte has the Affordable Housing portfolio which is a natural extent ion to the work she did during her first term. She will work on the implementation of the housing strategy and liaise with the Region on affordable housing.
Paul Sharman, Councillor for ward 5 will handle the Budget and Vision to Focus, which is the four year focus on the 25 year Strategic Plan. He will also focus on KPI’s (Key Performance Indicators) and other measurements on how will the city is doing. Multi year budgets will also be part of that portfolio,
Councillor Bentivegna will be Deputy Mayor for Recreation and community service and the city’s relationship with the hospital. He will also oversee the Recreation and Culture Master Plan which Council expects to complete this year.
What Mayor Meed Ward did not expand on is how the work each Council member does as a Deputy Mayor will be integrated into how Council operates and how they will work with Staff.
 Mayor Meed Ward after being sworn in. City Clerk Kevin Arjoon on the right and Justice of the Peace Mark Curtis She did say that there will be close collaboration between her and the Deputy Mayors.
Meed Ward has worked to create stronger roles for the members of Council. During her first term she was not able to get the support she wanted from the members of Council who seemed to see being Deputy Mayor as the first step to eventually becoming Mayor.
Her announcement is an interesting evolution of the role members of Council play in the creation of policy and program initiatives.
The Inauguration was actually a meeting of Council that was certainly not what the public has been used to seeing. The Burlington Teen Tour Band led the parade of Councillors in the Main Theatre of the Performing Arts Centre and led them out when the meeting was adjourned.
Hayley Verrall sang the National Anthem – it was very well done.
 The 2022-2026 City Council. Councillor Shawna Stolte was absent, taking part virtually while she recovers from Covid18
 By Pepper Parr
November 15th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
There was a time when libraries were about books.
Today you can borrow videos and you can now book some time in what is known as the Makers Space – a shop on the third floor of the library.
Not a book in see.
 Large format printers; 3D printers, embroidery machine and laser cutter – all in a library There are two laser cutters, there is a 3D printer, and there is software galore along with two printers – one a large format.
 Ryan Miller on the right working out a problem with a “customer”. Who uses the Maker’s Space – anybody and any one. Some people come in knowing precisely what they want to do said Ryan Miller the man who co-ordinates everything.
Others he added have an idea and they need some help figuring out how to do it – not knowing just what there is in the way of equipment.
The creative stuff runs the gamut from making buttons that you pin on to an embroidery pattern that you want to cut into a piece of plastic or wood.
While it works better for everyone if you make an appointment – the hours of operation are:
Monday, Friday and Saturday: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Tuesday and Thursday: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm
There are no fees.
 Ryan Miller: brings a quiet, reserved approach to helping people figure out the best way to solve a problem. The Maker’s Space is really for the imaginative. There are some inquisitive kids that would spend the rest of their lives in the place – trying ideas that have never been done before.
Those that walk in are evenly split in terms of gender; run from five to 55 and beyond.
Walk into the place with an idea and you may well come out with a finished product.
Make sure you bring a memory stick with you – you will probably take some software files you created and want to work with at home.
This is a place where every parent would love their kids to spend time at.
By Pepper Parr
November 14th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
At a city council meeting last week a resolution was put forward asking the provincial government to give municipalities more time to consider and review items that came out of the two announcements made last Friday.
The first announcement came out at 2 pm; the second just after 4 pm.
Bill C23 (More Homes Built Faster) was introduced and ROPA49 (Regional Official Plan Amendment) was approved (with significant changes) by the Minister
Combined the two will change the way the municipal sector does business.
Someone at city hall knew that the two were huge in terms of how the city would handle the changes and how they would prepare the responses.
No one said who rang the bell to get all hands on deck but starting Friday evening through to late Monday Staff turned out high level reports for council and gave their best solutions to what was in front of the city.
The province had given the municipal sector 30 days to respond – the city passed a resolution asking that the 30 day commenting deadline be bumped up to 60 days – even then Staff knew they had a mammoth task in front of them.
The Minister of Housing had signed off on ROPA49 – which was not appeal able. That document opened up all kinds of land that is currently Employment Lands.
Here is what we know so far.
 Ward 1 Councillor Kelvin Galbraith finds that two areas in his ward will now get a much different look. – Eagle Heights and the Bridgeview development now that those properties are going to be brought into the urban boundary. Up until the changes the Region was working on population numbers out to 2041 – the province changed that and sent out numbers for what the population growth was going to be through to 2051.
The 2041 number for the Region was ; 240,050
The number for 2051 is now 265,160.
Burlington’s share was, for 2041 114,330 – that has been bumped up to 124,390 by 2051.
Managing these changes and understanding the unintended consequences as well as the intended consequences is hard work
The Planning department is swamped. The graphic below sets out what planning staff have to cope with.
In an attempt to deal with the workload and the amount of time available the city passed the following Resolution:
WHEREAS; the both the Provincial and Federal governments have initiated conversations on how all three levels of government can collaborate to solve the housing crisis;
 Changes brought in by the province are going to bring about mammoth changes – City Manager Tim Commisso said: “We will make it work. WHEREAS; the current timing for input on these substantial changes in legislation and regulations is not adequate for the municipal sector to provide fulsome, effective, and constructive feedback or to identify the unintended consequences and serious implications that may arise from these changes that may ultimately frustrate the Provincial Government goal
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Burlington City Council requests that the Province of Ontario extend the comment period for all 30- and 31-day postings for feedback on potential legislative, regulatory, policy and other changes, to 66-day postings, to allow for fulsome municipal consultation.
The Resolution will be sent to everyone who can read in the municipal sector, to the government, the political parties and every stake holder they can think of.
The West End Home Builders Association had already put out a media release saying they were onside and will work with everyone to make it possible.
How this will happen is something no one really knows. City Manager Tim Commisso told Council that Toronto is looking for 30 planners adding that “we will make this work”
Work is the operative word in all this.
 By Staff
November 14th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
As of today, outdoor tennis courts and outdoor pickleball courts are closed for the winter and will re-open in the spring.
 The outdoor season has been brought to a close Mobi-mats at Beachway Park have also been removed for the winter and will be re-installed in the spring
 By Staff
November 14th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Ontario’s chief medical officer of health is “strongly recommending” that Ontarians wear masks in all indoor public settings, including in schools and in childcare settings, but stopped short of recommending a return to a mask mandate in the province.
 Premier Ford has spoken out – wear a mask – but he won’t mandate it. At a news conference on Monday, Dr. Kieran Moore said the province’s health system is facing “extraordinary pressures” with the ongoing circulation of COVID-19, the earlier than normal rise in Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), as well as influenza.
“What we are facing is a triple threat that requires our collective action and action to protect the most vulnerable in our communities, the very young, the very old and those with underlying medical issues and to ensure that our healthcare system remains able to care for Ontarians when they need it,” Moore said.
Will the Mayor take a lead and ask anyone planning to attend the inauguration Tuesday evening wear a mask or watch the event on line.
Will the Judge who presides wear a mask as he or she swears in each member of Council wear a mask and ask that Council members do the same ?
 By Pepper Parr
November 14th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
OPINION
A number of readers have questioned the frequent publishing of a particularly nasty piece of behaviour on the part of Mayor Marianne Meed Ward.
The Gazette went to some effort to clean up the visual part of the 14 minute event at a council meeting in June. The meeting was virtual and at the time the Mayor was not in the Council Chamber – she was in London Ontario to celebrate the graduation of her daughter.
We left in every word that was said by everyone: the Mayor, the City Clerk who was having some difficulty maintaining order and Councillor Shawna Stolte who was arguing that she had the right to determine when she would read out an apology.
Her choice was to read the apology at the end of the Council meeting during member comments – which are not debatable
 Mayor Marianne Meed Ward chairing a virtual Council meeting from London, Ontario Mayor Meed Ward had decided to re-arrange the agenda, which she had the authority to do.
Those who have been critical of our decision to publish that segment of the Council meeting are the kind of people who ask – why do we constantly talk about the Holocaust?
We talk about the unmarked graves found at the residential school locations where Indigenous children were sent to – some didn’t get to go home.
When there is unacceptable behaviour, and we have yet to hear anyone say there was anything good about what the Mayor said, it has to be made public and made part of the public record.
If politicians get away with this kind of thing once – they will do it again.
The public has to speak up and speak out – and they can’t do that if they don’t know.
Informed people can make informed decisions. I personally wonder if every voter in the city knew of the behaviour would the election results have been the same.
The unfortunate part of the election result is that none of the people who ran for the office of Mayor were capable of doing the job. Meed Ward brings a set of skills to the job that no one else came anywhere near what she can do.
It is the downside of her behaviour that is troubling.
I don’t think anyone wants their Mayor to behave the Marianne Meed Ward did last June.
Listen HERE and tell me – you see this as acceptable?
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 Stephan Dimech
November 14th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Playing in an online casino has become a popular pastime for many people. Whether you started playing more casino games online as a result of the brick and mortar casinos closing down for lockdown during the COVID19 pandemic, or have always enjoyed playing some casino games on an app in your spare time, there’s nothing more frustrating than losing. While losing is always going to be a part of playing casino games, no matter where you play, the good news is that there are several things that you can do to be in with a better chance of getting the win you deserve.
 Find a location that you are comfortable with and feel safe using. Choose a Good Online Casino
First of all, if you are new to the world of online casinos, or are looking for a new online casino to play at, then it’s important to ensure that you choose a good one. Online casinos are only becoming more and more popular, and the industry is saturated with lots of different options to choose from. Before you decide where to sign up and spend your money, spend some time researching your different options, reading reviews, and checking out what the casinos offer to find an option that is reputable, trustworthy, and there to not only help you enjoy your game more, but also get more wins. For a reputable online casino that you can trust, check out novibet.ie.
Practice for Free First
Playing any casino game for real money can be quite daunting, but it’s even more overwhelming if you are new to the game. Don’t use real money if you are still in the process of learning how to play popular casino games like blackjack or roulette. The good news is that there are lots of ways that you can play these games for free to build up your skills and get better at them before you start wagering your cash. For example, you can download poker apps to play online against real people for virtual chips rather than real money, or you can even find casino-themed console games where you don’t have to pay to play.
Only Bet What You Can Afford
Whether you are playing slots or poker tournaments, the best way to approach online casino gaming is to only bet what you can afford to lose. Don’t bet more than you can handle financially, or put yourself in any sticky situations with money when making a bet as this will cause an emotional response as you will be relying on a win to make that money back. And when you are relying on a win, you may be more likely to chase your losses or make decisions that aren’t that great when playing, which can end up backfiring on you significantly.
Play With a Clear Head
Playing some online casino games might seem tempting if you’ve had a pint or a couple of glasses of wine. However, if you are under the influence, even if you are only a little bit tipsy, this can have an impact on your decision-making process and your reactions. Ultimately, you might end up making moves when playing that you would not normally, and taking bigger risks than you usually would – which can lead to you losing more often unless you are seriously lucky.
 Have a strategy then bet small and play often Bet Small and Play Often
Rather than putting all of your eggs in one basket and betting a huge amount on one game, you can increase your chance of winning by making small bets and playing often. While the wins aren’t going to be as big for a smaller bet, it’s always a better option compared to losing everything with one wrong move!
Pick a Strategy Game
There are lots of online casino games that leave whether you win or lose down to pure chance. Unfortunately, other than playing a lot, there isn’t much else you can do to improve your odds of winning at these games. On the other hand, with strategy games like poker or blackjack, you can make more decisions and have more control. Learning basic blackjack strategy, for example, puts you in a stronger position when playing as you can make more potentially winning moves.
Follow the tips above and you should find your luck improves!
By Pepper Parr
November 14th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Once the members of the 2022-2026 City Council are sworn in the Integrity Commissioner can begin to delve into the files they have on their desk.
Two members of council have issues the Integrity Commissioner is understood to be looking into.
The Gazette is aware of one complaint against ward 1 Councillor Kelvin Galbraith that has been filed and is aware of a second complaint against the same councillor that is being prepared.
Another member of Council reported herself to the Integrity Commissioner over what was later determined by Council to be an “inadvertent” comment made during a meeting of the Burlington Downtown Business Association. A formal complaint on that matter is being discussed but apparently not made.
An Integrity Commissioner is in place to ensure that members of Council are adhering to the Code of Good Governance.
There have been two investigations: one resulted in a five day suspension of pay; a second was not accepted as a complaint but the Integrity Commissioner did suggest an apology be given which Mayor Marianne Meed Ward turned into a 14 minute display of exceptionally poor behaviour and spite. For those who haven’t seen the behaviour it is HERE
Among the questions we asked are the following:
Does the person filing the complaint have to be a resident of Burlington?
No.
Does a complaint have to come from an individual (over the age of 18) or can it be filed by an Ontario Corporation or non profit?
We will require the name and contact information for the individual representing the entity, but a complaint may be filed on behalf of an entity that is not an individual person.
 This is not a sanction an Integrity Commissioner can impose. These devices were once used in the United States. What are the sanctions that Integrity Principles have and do they include the power to declare a seat vacant?
Principles Integrity does not have the power to impose sanctions under its role as integrity commissioner for the City of Burlington. Sanctions, if made, will come about after Council’s consideration of an investigation report which contains recommendations for sanction.
An integrity commissioner cannot recommend, and a Council cannot impose, the vacation of the seat of an elected official.
The singular exception would result from a formal complaint made pursuant to the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act, in which case removal from office could be considered by a judge upon an application to the court. Such applications are extremely rare.
With respect to code of conduct infractions, the Municipal Act provides that the City may impose either of the following penalties if we report that, in our opinion, a member has contravened the code of conduct:
1. A reprimand.
2. Suspension of the remuneration paid to the member in respect of his or her services as a member of council or of the local board, as the case may be, for a period of up to 90 days.
In addition, the City can decide to take what we describe as remedial steps in the context of any particular code breach. For example, since it is always in the power of the City to choose who would chair a particular committee, in the circumstances of a complaint the City could choose to remove a councillor from their position as chair.
Who determines what the sanctions are by which we mean who tells you that this is what you can do.
We serve as independent statutory officers do not take instructions from either Council or the City’s administration with respect to the complaints we administer.
The sanctions we recommend to Council are in compliance with the legislative framework in which we and Council operates.
Are we correct in understanding that the you do not make the decision but recommend to city council that it make a specific decision.
Yes
Are we correct in saying that a person who is not satisfied with the decision a city council makes can appeal that decision to Divisional Court.
Not quite. The Divisional Court considers judicial review applications arising out of the decision, and in such a case the issues will centre around such things as jurisdiction and procedural fairness, not the quality or correctness of the decision.
The Ombudsman of Ontario also has jurisdiction when an integrity commissioner either refuses to investigate or completes an investigation, but once again the consideration there is whether procedural fairness has been afforded, not the decision itself.
With specific reference to public apologies, it is our practice to never recommend a public apology be imposed as a sanction, because an apology not freely given is not in our view productive or in the public interest. That said, we often suggest to a respondent that in the appropriate circumstances an appropriate apology can bring about an informal resolution to a matter.
Sounds a lot more serious than Traffic Court.
Related news stories:
Galbraith issues a statement
Advice given to Galbraith by the Integrity Commissioner
Why do we publish the rant again and again?
By Pepper Parr
November 14th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
While city council waits to have their successful election campaigns made legal at the swearing in ceremony on Tuesday development mistakes made years ago proceed.
 A rendering of what the BeauSoleil is expected to look like when completed. The trees on the right hand side never existed and never will. A 28 storey high rise is under construction The Beausoleil is replacing what used to be the Pearl Street Café, that was operated by John and Martha Duff, a a couple that met each other when they were members of the Burlington Teen Tour Band.. the Café was on the ground floor and a graphics company was on the upper floor.
When a developer came along with an offer was just too good to turn down the properties were sold.
They were later flipped to another developer who filed a development application, that ended up going to the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) where the developer won.
It wasn’t long before demotion work began.
 Wreckers have cut off the back end of the house that was once the Pearl Street Cafe Part of the OLT agreement was that the two houses on the property would be kept as part of the development.
What is being kept is the façade that would serve as the entrance to two units. What isn’t clear is if the units were to be seen as private dwellings. That will all get worked out when the sales work begins.
The houses were built in 1880 and are the last examples of housing from that period on Pearl Street
The only thing that is going to be kept is the façade, which doesn’t do much for the sleek glass lined look of the building that will go up on the site.
Right now demolition is underway for the BeauSoleil development while construction takes place in the building to the immediate east – that being the Nautique.
 An aerial picture of the BeauSoleil site with the Nautique under construction at the top of the photo. Photograph by Harry Hersh In the past ten year the pace of development has been incredible. A run down motel was on the south side of Lakeshore Road – now the site of the Bridgewater development. The Waterfront Hotel could end up being torn down and replaced by two towers that will be more than 40 storeys.
 Almost all the land between Lakeshore Road and Old Lakeshore Road is set up for future development. Don’t expect to see any affordable housing in any of these buildings.
That part of the downtown in Burlington will become very high end and expensive. No one is at all certain what the area might draw in terms of commercial operations.
The facade that will be part of the BeauSoleil is all that will be left of the kind of housing (built in the late 1800’s) that made up a Burlington that is fast fading from view – all that will be left are the memories.
One of the occupants of what was known as the Acland house had a job filling water trucks that were used to put water on the streets to keep down the dust. A person with that kind of job would never be able to rent a house in Burlington today.
It was a kinder, more gentle town that was livable.
By Staff
November 13th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
There will not be a full complement of the members of Council who are to be sworn in on Tuesday evening.
 Stolte Covid test results Ward 4 Councilor Shawna Stolte posted the following on her Facebook page earlier today:
Well…clearly I will not be attending Council Inauguration on Tuesday…
Disappointing , but when I think of all the residents of Burlington who have missed the births of grandchildren , family weddings, special celebrations and end-of-life gatherings over the last 2 1/2 years…I certainly can’t complain.
Thank you for putting your faith in me again Ward 4 and I promise to rest up so that I can work hard on your behalf for the next four years!
Good on the Council member for making a responsible decision.
 By Anne and Dave Marsden
November 15th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
270 (1) (5) of the Municipal Act states:
A municipality shall adopt and maintain policies with respect to the following matters:
The manner in which the municipality will try to ensure that it is accountable to the public for its actions and the manner in which the municipality will try to ensure that its actions are transparent to the public.
November 4, 2022 we sent an email to Burlington Clerk Kevin Arjoon, members of his staff, all elected members of Council and Kwab Ako-Adjei Director Corporate Communications and Engagement. The purpose was to put the Clerk and Council that gets sworn in on November 15, 2022 on notice that Clerk Kevin Arjoon has been derelict in his duties associated with Council’s need to ensure accountability and transparency to the public.
 The review was to take place last April. It has yet to take place. Most members of the electorate, who do their due diligence in terms of researching candidates, utilize the website for researching how incumbents have performed in terms of decisions that are close to their hearts. The webcasts in particular, are very useful given our research since 2010 shows the minutes often don’t reflect an accurate or full picture of discussions that took place. The Burlington ombudsman Amberley Gavel, in a report that went before council December 2014 set out support of this statement with: “It appears that they (the minutes of the October 2, 2013 CSC – Community Services Committee) are not compliant with Section 239 (7) (Municipal Act) with respect to the recording of committee minutes.” This is something that our in-depth review of Report CL-23-14, webcasts and minutes, all contained on the website previous to May 2022, showed Council have yet to address. How could Council avoid responding to its Ombudsman’s negative observation? It’s beyond belief but the city website backed this position pre May, 2022.
Former Ontario Ombudsman Andre Marin is at least one of the persons, if not the person, we can thank for having webcasts made available to us. We don’t think the former Ombudsman who is on the record likening some members of municipal councils to “gangrenous limbs” who make provincial politicians look like choir boys, will be happy to hear about the Burlington dearth of information that suddenly occurred just as nominations opened. Marin and many others worked hard to ensure public have the right information available to us all the time and especially immediately before a municipal election.
We, use the website Agenda and Minutes services frequently regardless of election time or not, and we believe many others, especially media, do too. We mainly used the older minutes to research the quality of public engagement for changes to governance materials covered by 270 (1) of the Municipal Act For example in 2016 the definitions of accountability and transparency were removed from the Procedure By-laws and changed in terms of .the previous definitions that are now part of 270 (1) Municipal Act Corporate Policy. Expired review time for corporate policies is the subject of a past Marsden opinion piece. However, it is important enough to repeat in case it was missed the first time around. The Clerk who is responsible for reviewing and amending the corporate policy that sees council ensure that it is accountable to the public for its actions and the manner in which the municipality will try to ensure that its actions are transparent to the public was the responsibility of the Clerk to review and amend if required previous to April 2022. Something which the new web site showed never happened.
The Clerk has assured us that Council knew and agreed to the replacement of the web site and thus access to all the associated minutes etc. so close to election day. We are, however, not convinced of that.
Mr. Arjoon as at November 4, 2022 has been asked to advise when all webcasts, minutes, agenda and attachments July 2016 – present will again be available to us through the City website. We are also asking for the opportunity to search previous Committee and Council Agenda and Minutes that have been available to us on the city website for at least the last ten years as we did before; i.e. without having to go through staff.
 Policies are debated at length – they are in place for a reason. Staff are directed by these decisions. We believe the absence of this information that was previously and easily available to residents and media alike significantly affects public engagement. It clearly affects the right to access decisions made by our council and committees and determine if they are being made as they should be in a manner that positively affects the well-being and best interests of families and businesses of Burlington. Further, whether the responsibility for the disappearing information should be the subject of a complaint on reduced accountability and transparency immediately prior to an election, that seriously affected ability to determine council incumbents’ performance.
We have repeatedly raised these issues with Mr. Arjoon and he simply passes us on to Mr. Ako-Adjei who has been unable to answer our questions as to when, or indeed if, the website information will be restored to what it was prior to 2022 municipal election nominations opening
While too late to use for election candidate research, public and media access to the same level of information we had before nominations opened is a must prior to a new council term beginning.
Accountability for such a dearth of information the last few weeks of our municipal election that is continuing right into Council’s next term must occur. Mr. Arjoon is well paid for the level of competence that is expected of him in terms of securing access to council and committee decision making processes for whoever and whenever public and media access is required.
By Frank P Mickens
November 12th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
With the regulated iGaming in Ontario Canada, what are some of the options that are available?
Just a few months after the enactment of laws governing online casinos and other gambling endeavors in Ontario, the sector is booming. Joyce R. Knox, an online casino expert attributes this to the confidence that has been created in the Ontario online casino scene where players are assured of fair play. Regulated industries tend to play by the rules since they are supposed to meet certain requirements. The new gambling laws Ontario enacted recently require operators to register as well as meet other standards and regulations. This, according to Joyce R. Knox ensures that players are protected and unfair competition is eliminated.
 With such, one can only expect a boom in the industry. And this is what is happening in the Casino Ontario scene. Recent data published by iGaming Ontario (iGO) indicates that the Ontario online gambling market raked in close to $162 million in the first three months after the enactment of the new iGaming regulations. This translates to a player spending approximately $ 113per month. Experts point out that this growth will continue to be seen in the coming years as more players take advantage of the new regulations to play Ontario online poker and other casino games in safe environments. So, which are the different Ontario online gambling options that are available for players? This is what we explore in this article, giving players a chance to learn where to start.
For players looking for online poker and other casino games in Ontario, the options are many. Ontario casino gaming industry is big with BetMGM casino, Royal Panda casino, and Ceasers Casino being some of the big operators in the province. Let’s explore what these and other platforms have to offer to players in this region and beyond
Royal Panda Casino
This is one of the first online casinos that have taken advantage of the introduction of a regulated gambling market to set foot in the region. With this Royal Panda Casino, players have access to a wide variety of casino games including slots, blackjack, and roulette among others. A close look at the online casino also indicates that players are treated to the simple and easily navigable interface where they can start the games right away without the need for training. This means that new players can start enjoying their favorite games immediately after they register with the platforms. With the online gambling sector recording phenomenal growth, this is a platform to watch owing to its wide range of options as well as responsive support, and a very strong data encryption system.
Ceasars casino
Another search of the different gambling options that are available in Ontario following the regulation of the industry yields Ceasars casino. The site is described as highly reputable with reviews rating it as one of the best. Among the features that make the site stand out to include the wide variety of online casino games that are offered on the platform as well as the all-around customer support. As pointed out by Joyce R. Knox, customer support is one of the most important factors in online gambling. Given that players engage with the platform remotely; they may get stuck when they have an issue.
Platforms that offer responsive support solve customer issues promptly and more often to their satisfaction. Caesars Casino has been described in different reviews as responsive to players’ needs owing to reliable support and features that make it easy to engage in different casino games remotely. Also, the fact that players can deposit and withdraw using different options means that players are not restricted to expensive methods. With the online casino platform up and running in Ontario, players who are of age can sign up and start enjoying their favorite games.
Draftkings Casino
You may have known Draftkings for its other types of gambling options. The online casino platform has a strong presence in casino games. Apart from its great user interface, the platform which is available as an app and desktop format offers a wide range of games. Ranging from:
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- Online poker,
- Blackjack,
- Roulette, and
- Slot machines
With all these games players are spoilt for a choice as far as the games they can play are concerned.
 Play Ojo casino
With games, such as online slots, blackjack, poker, and roulette, players will find lots of pleasure in engaging with the platform. It prides itself on having unique features as well as payment options that give players the convenience they need as well as a chance to enjoy low transaction fees.
Party casino
As the name suggests, this is a platform that offers its players the fun and excitement that casino games present. Like other online casino platforms in Ontario, players are promised a variety of games as well as options to play Vegas-themed games.
With the growth of Ontario’s online casino scene, players are now having a wide range of platforms to choose from. To get the best experience, players need to settle for the best and as experts point out, they are more available in this market.
By Pepper Parr
November 11th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington actually has two Remembrance Day event, three if you count the goings on at the Legion Gall but that is another story.
 The Naval Monument Early in the morning the Haltom Naval Veterans Association holds a ceremony at the Naval Monument on the Promenade at Spencer Smith Park.
That’s where that splendid statue of the sailor looking out over the lake with a list of all the ships that were used during the wars – and on the back side of the pedestal there is a list of all the merchant marine ships that were lost.
The Naval Monument is the smaller event but it is the event where you can talk to the veterans in a different way.
Near the end of the event the Bosun’s whistle was piped followed by the Up Spirits command. Small paper cups are handed out. A small splash of rum is put in the cup for a quick swallow.
 Burlington MP Karina Gould talking to a member of the Halton Naval Veterans Association. For the ships at sea Up Spirits is a fine event. Each person has their own pewter tankard that has served them well for years. Those tankards are never washed – they get a rinsing – and a small one at that. Over time they have a lining that is basically a nice rum residue that adds to the tot that is served daily when you are at sea.
 This is how a parade is led. Later in the day large crowds gather along Brant Street to watch the parade and take part in the service, they laying of the wreaths, the singing of him, the sound of the Last Post and the joy and strength in the Reveille.
There is a sense of “I have come and done what I needed to do”
There were far more of the close to 60 in the crowds but this year more younger people than I have seen in the past.
The Teen Tour Band seldom fails to deliver. With the light drizzle they were wearing thin bright red slickers that were rather attractive.
The laying of the wreaths, the singing of hymns and reading of prayers are all part of a traditional Remembrance Ceremony.
 The Teen Tour Band – they never fail to deliver. One couple had lanyards around the necks with small picture frames at the end of the lanyard. One of the pictures was of a woman, she looked like a WREN; couldn’t make out picture the man had. Each of the pictures had a poppy tucked inside the frame.
 A couple, each wearing pictures in small frames of people who served. I chose not to interview them – it seemed to me that this was a time they wanted to remember and not be bothered by questions from someone they didn’t know.
The Day was not celebrated the same way during the last two years.
Before that we did not have war on our minds – but today war is a very real thing. The Ukrainians are fighting a devastating war and more than holding their own.
Hearing a man who is fighting that war say publicly that “we are not winning yet but Putin is losing” is a good sign – but unless you have experienced the loss and devastation of a war it is hard to fully comprehend.
Today as we remember – we know full well those that were lost knew just what they were fighting for. Hold those you love a little tighter in the days ahead.
 Mere boys – I wondered what the Day meant to them and what they think when singing the hymn that goes: Eternal Father strong to save Whose arm has bound the restless wave Who bids the mighty ocean deep It’s own appointed limits keep./strong>
 They marched down the Street with a stride and a step that was wonderful to see.
By Pepper Parr
November 11, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
From the Ward 4 Councillor Shawna Stolte Facebook page:
Will be honouring our Veterans quarantined from home today as I take my turn with this nasty COVID. From fever, aches, sore throat, coughing and so very sleepy…this virus is no joke.
 Wasn’t wearing the mask somewhere – Covid19 doesn’t fall off the back of a truck. Shawna Stolte with one of her three daughters.
Most informed people know this virus is not a joke and the signs suggest it will get much worse before it gets better.
Will Stolte have cleared the period of time people with Covid19 are expected to stay isolated – and could that impact her taking part in the inauguration in the 15th ?
Might be appropriate to be sworn in separately this time around.
So far three of the seven members of Council have been infected: the Mayor, Councillor Kearns and now Stolte.
We did see Councillor Nisan at the Remembrance service at the Naval monument – mask-less as well.
By Pepper Parr
November 11, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
They were at the head of the parade coming down Brant Street.
They were not what anyone expected to see.
 These two pieces of military equipment led the 2022 Remembrance Day parade down Brant Street. They weren’t tanks – they were armoured personnel carriers with rubber treads.
There were no markings which struck me as odd – which unit did they come from.
Turns out the two pieces of equipment were privately owned by “a couple of guys up north”
 At the end of the parade the equipment stopped outside a coffee shop. My guess is that they were bought as surplus from the federal government.
Wonder just what was stripped out of those units. Do they have any fire power left in them?
The crews aboard were certainly proud. One appeared to be driven by a woman but I’ve never understood just who drove the things. Someone took care of the guns and the shells and someone took care of communications – and that is about all I know. I was in the Senior Service (Navy) don’t know much army stuff
It will be interesting to read what shows up in the comments.
By Pepper Parr
November 11th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
People have their own personal, unique way of handling Remembrance Day.
For many it is a very deep, personal and painful day.
There is, for almost everyone, a lingering sense of loss – of what could have, might have been.
 The crowds that show up to take part in the Remembrance Day event have always been large. In Burlington the crowds that gather at the Cenotaph are large. In the past I have seen gatherings that flood Brant Street – they were larger than similar events in Toronto at the Cenotaph in front of the old City Hall.
For the Marsden family – it is a major event. They see it as the lynch pin that holds a society together. That men and women put on uniforms and went to war prepared to die to save the democracy, damaged as it is, is something not to be forgotten.
 Anne and Dave Marsden and their granddaughter Ava. Ave will be serving as a sentry at the Cenotaph today. For Anne and Dave Marsden it is an event they are proud to be part of; something they remind people of again and again.
For some that ‘reminding’ is tiring – for Anne and Dave it is who they are.
This year Anne will be laying a wreath – something she has wanted to do for some time.
And this year her granddaughter Ava, an Army cadet will be serving as a sentry
We all know what that phrase “my heart swelled” means. It is a wonderful part of human nature.
Today the hearts of the Marsden family will swell.
 By Staff
November 10th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The Candlelit Stroll is back!
The event this year will be taking place throughout downtown on Friday, November 25th from 6pm-9pm.
It marks the start of the winter holiday season
 Candles set out for Strollers  Three long years ago – this was the scene. It will return November 25th, 2022 The Stroll starts at Civic Square, for the lighting of the Tree of Hope.
From there, folks will set out on a self-led winter wonderland tour of Burlington Downtown.
We will have breathtaking illumination along the Promenade West (perfect for capturing IG-worthy moments!) and a pulled-taffy stop along the route as well!
Kids (and kids at heart) will want to stop by Centro Garden to watch a holiday movie.
Take in the holiday display at Joseph Tassoni’s (be sure to stop inside for a complimentary family photo!)
There is a new winter-wonderful art display … at a walk-in snow globe feature!
NYNY Men’s Grooming Lounge will be offering complimentary neck shaves and shots of Italian espresso (to keep you energized thru the night!)
Warm up with delicious hot chocolate from La Creme de la Creme Creamery Inc.
Fill your bellies with free sliders from our friends at the WORKS Craft Burgers & Beer.
Peachey Counselling and Family Support will be handing out holiday-stress-busting presents (and maybe a candy or two as well!)
Head down to Joseph Brant Museum for “Lights from the Rooftop” (and some popcorn, hot chocolate and holiday tunes!)
Get ready to clap your hands while listening to incredible live music with the Burlington Teen Tour Band.
And no Candlelit Stroll would be complete without a visit with Santa.
 By Staff
November 10th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The Santa Claus parade is returning to beautiful downtown Burlington Dec. 4, from 2-4 p.m.
The parade will feature floats, community groups, costumed characters, the Burlington Teen Tour Band, Junior Redcoats and other marching bands. As always, Santa will be the grand finale of the parade.
 People can once again line New Street to enjoy a Seasonal event.
The parade will start at 2 p.m. at the corner of Guelph Line and Prospect Street and makes its way downtown along New Street. The parade then travels north on Brant Street and finishes at Caroline Street.
Roads of the parade route will be closed Dec. 4, at 1 p.m. and will re-open shortly after the final float has moved through and a clean-up has been completed.
 For the past two years Santa got driven around in an antique Fire Truck Children are encouraged to bring letters for Santa, which will be collected by letter carriers from Canada Post along the parade route. Spectators may bring non-perishable food donations, which will be accepted by the Burlington Teen Tour Band boosters for local food banks.
The Burlington Oldtimers Hockey Club will be collecting donations of loonies, toonies and $2 tap to help support the operation costs of the parade.
Any individuals or groups also interested in volunteering with the parade can email volunteer@burlington.ca, call 905-335-7777, ext.7978 or visit burlington.ca/volunteer.
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