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Henry is back - City awards Nelson Pool contract to the company that began the construction of The Pier. That is good news but don't expect to hear that from most of the council members.

By Pepper Parr

March 27th, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

A resident sent us a note a few days ago asking why the contractor first hired to build THE Pier and then walked off the job was hired to build the new swimming pool at Nelson

“I was surprised to learn that this project was awarded to Schilthuis Construction Inc.”

Henry Schilthuis quit the Pier construction site because he realized that the plans he was given by the city were such that a successful pier could not be built.

It took a Judge who mediated a decision on who was wrong where and who was accountable. The blame rested with the company that provided the drawings the contractor had to work from.

A rendering of the Nelson swimming pool – will it e open in time for the warm weather.

Schilthuis was the contractor – not the designer of the pier. When it became evident that the plans had serious problems Schilthuis brought those problems to the attention of the city and offered a solution that would fix the problems.

The city decided it didn’t like the cost of the fix and sued – Schilthuis counter sued and then everyone was hiring lawyers. In the end the insurance companies ended up paying for the mistakes.

Cam Jackson, the Mayor at the time didn’t help matters with some of his comments.

When a crane toppled on the Pier the flaws in the steel that was used became evident – that is when everyone went looking for a lawyer and the contractor gave the keys to the site back to the city.

Schilthuis had a rough couple of years while the case was before the Courts. During that time every one of his sub-contractors stood by him – which is more than can be said for the Jackson voters.

Then incoming Mayor Rick Goldring found that he had a messy file on his desk. Neither he nor his council came out of it all with much in the way of glory. Schilthuis offered the city a solution that was less than what the city had to pay a second contractor – but at that time no one was touching Henry Schilthuis.

The city made one of its smarter moves when they gave Schilthuis the contract. The city will get value for the money it pays and the public will have a fine pool – that will be built on time.

Ward 4 Councillor Jack Dennison told his constituents in his newsletter that:
“Prior to the contractor being awarded this project, staff prequalified contractors who had extensive experience with collegiate pools and splash pads. Submissions were received and evaluated and qualified contractors were approved to bid the tender of the construction work. Schilthuis General Contractors was the lowest and most compliant bid and offered the best value.

“Schilthuis General Contractors have been in business for over 65 years and have worked with the City of Burlington on other previous projects over the years such as Aldershot Arena Renovations and Aldershot Pool Renovations.

When evaluating a General Contractor staff also evaluates their Construction Team assigned to the project includes a project manager who has worked with Schilthuis in the past.

The city is in good hands on this one

None of the key players in the building of The Pier the first time around are with the city now.

Precipitation (big word for rain) levels result in an upgrade to watershed conditions - keep the kids away from the creeks.

By Staff

March 24th, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

It is that time of year. The weather is a little bit warmer and boys in rubber boots get curious and adventuresome and at times get a little too close to the creeks where the water is now flowing a lot faster.

Conservation Halton advises that the Weather Office is forecasting a low pressure system moving into our watershed today (March 24th) which is forecast to produce rain showers up to approximately 20 to 25 mm. Rain is expected to continue over the weekend with total amounts between 10 to 15 mm expected on both Saturday and Sunday. The system is expected to move out of our watershed by Monday.

Water levels in watershed creeks will rise significantly during the weekend. Caution around the edges of creeks – especially with children.

Flooding is not anticipated, however the forecasted precipitation in conjunction with saturated ground conditions will result in higher than normal water levels and flows in local streams.

Conservation Halton is asking all residents and children to stay away 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.

This Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety will be in effect through Monday March 27, 2017. Conservation Halton will continue to monitor stream and weather conditions and will provide updates as required.

One weekend left to enjoy skiing at Glen Eden

By Staff

March 21st, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

Spring skiing can be really nice. It’s a chance to get an early start on your tan.

Not much left to the season though and for those in Halton, know that – Glen Eden will reopen for one last weekend of skiing and snowboarding for the 2016/17 season from Friday, March 24 until Sunday, March 26.

One weekend left in the season.

A combination of some recent natural snow, the remaining man made snow and some cooler seasonal temperatures mean the skiing and snowboarding season will continue for a few more days.

Glen Eden is closed this week Monday through Thursday, and is reopening Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Lifts will be running from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Lift tickets will be $22 this weekend (rather than $38 for adults and $33 for teens), and all season passes are valid (Super Value, 5×7 and All Access). Glen Eden opened for the 2016-17 season on December 17, 2016.

“We would like to thank all the skiers, snowboarders and lesson participants who visited Glen Eden during the 2016/17 season,” said Gene Matthews, Director, Operations, Conservation Halton. “Glen Eden enjoyed a successful season this past year with visitation returning to typical levels. Our grooming and snowmaking team did a fantastic job with temperatures which were above seasonal, particularly in February.”

The Glen Eden season typically starts before Christmas and Boxing Day and is usually concluded by the end of March Break. Last season, Glen Eden didn’t open until January 8, 2016, the latest start to a season in ten years, and closed on March 12, 2016, the earliest closing in the same time frame. Recognizing the varying winter conditions Southern Ontario receives each year, Glen Eden depends on making its own snow and continuous investments in snowmaking infrastructure

If you want to hit the hills next season there is an Early Bird special for the 2017/18 season on Season Passes and for the first time ever all the Snow School programs. You can register now for the Snow School programs now for next season.

The Early Bird features the best available pricing of the year on all Season Pass and Snow School programs. It closes on April 12, 2017.

QEW looks pretty clear at 6:00 am - snow has stopped falling. Drive carefully.

By Staff

March 14th, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

How bad is the morning commute going to be?

An early look at the QEW shows roads that are pretty clear and the snow looks as if it has stopped falling.

QEW between Walkers Line and Appleby Line just before 6 am this morning.

QEW at Guelph Line just before 6:00 am this morning.

QEW at the 403 intersection just before 6:00 am this morning,

City streets have had their first brush with the snow plows and the buildup of snow on those cars that are parked outside is not all that bad.

Drive carefully and everyone should get to where they want to go safely.

The City of Burlington is open for business during today’s storm.

At this time, all early bird swims have been cancelled

All city facilities running March Break programs will open at 7:30 a.m. for drop-off and other facilities will open at the regular scheduled time.

Burlington Transit buses are running and crews are beginning to clear bus stops.

The plowing of primary roads is completed and work continues to clear secondary roads. Sidewalk clearing will begin at 7 a.m. It is anticipated that the plowing of locals roads will begin later today.

Road conditions - traffic is moving on the QEW - salters are out on city streets

By Staff

March 13th, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

What does it look like out there?

At 9:20 pm on March 13th traffic on the QEW is moving

QEW between Burloak and Bronte.

QEW at Guelph line

Salters are currently out across the city.
Snow plows are ready to go once accumulations reach 5 cm on primary roads.

This snowfall might be the last of the season. Snow clearing to date has been very good on the snow clearing budget – unless we really get wacked there should be a surplus in the account at the end of the fiscal year; of course there is always the first three months of 2018 weather.

Light will not be on at Ireland Park

By Staff

March 1, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

The Lights are out at Ireland Park

Due to an electrical safety issue, all lights are out in Ireland Park.

Park users are advised that lights in the park are not functioning and this outage affects all areas of the park until further notice.

Chilly Half Marathon will close down large stretches of Lakeshore Road on Sunday

By Staff

March 1, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

The Chilly Half Marathon will alter three transit routes on Sunday.

Routes 3, 10 and 20 will have detours during the marathon that will be taking place in downtown Burlington closing Lakeshore Road from Maple Avenue to Burloak Drive causing detours on Routes 3, 10 and 20 as follows:

Route 3 – between the Downtown Terminal to Guelph Line and New Street, will detour using James and New Streets

Route 10 – between Maple Avenue and the Downtown Terminal, will detour using Ontario Street, Locust Street and Caroline Street

Route 20 – between Appleby Line and Spruce Avenue to Burloak Drive and Winston, will detour using Spruce Avenue, Hampton Heath, Stratton Road, and Winston Road

Delays can be expected on these routes in the affected areas. Please plan ahead and use tripplanner.burlington.ca to access up-to-date schedule information in real-time.

Raccoon strain of rabies on the up-rise in the Region - explain the danger to your children.

By Staff

February 15th, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

There have been ten case of raccoon strain rabies in the Region.

The Halton Region Health Department received test results from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency on February 13 confirming a case of raccoon strain rabies in a skunk found in the City of Burlington. Residents are reminding to avoid all contact with raccoons, skunks and other wild animals.

Alive they are cute – dead they could be the death of you. They can be pretty stinky as well. Just leave them alone.

Rabies is a viral disease that causes severe damage to the brain and spinal cord, and if untreated before symptoms appear will lead to death. The virus is spread through the saliva of an infected animal, usually entering through a bite or scratch.

“Anyone who comes in physical contact with a raccoon or other wild animal should see a physician immediately and contact the Health Department by dialing 311,” said Dr. Daniela Kempkens, Acting Medical Officer of Health for Halton Region. “Halton Region, as well as neighbouring communities, are experiencing a higher than average number of rabies cases and we want residents to be aware of rabies and know how to protect themselves from wild and stray animals.“

After someone is exposed to rabies, timely use of the rabies vaccine can prevent the rabies illness. While the rabies vaccine is extremely effective if it is administered before any symptoms occur, there are a number of things you can do to protect your family and pets from the threat of rabies:

• Seek medical attention immediately if you come in contact with a raccoon, skunk or other potentially rabid animals.
• Report all animal bites or scratches to the Halton Region Health Department.

• Warn your children to stay away from any wild, stray or aggressive animals.

• Do not touch dead or sick animals.

• Do not feed or keep wild animals as pets.

• Make sure your pet’s rabies vaccinations are up to date.

• Keep your pet on a leash when off your property.

• Any pet that has come in contact with a raccoon or other wild animal should be seen by a veterinarian.

Mainway Arena Temporarily Closed for Scheduled Maintenance February 14 to 17, 2017

By Staff

February 3rd, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

Mainway Arena will be closed for maintenance between Feb. 14 to 17, 2017.

Plans to accommodate ice users at other city arenas are being made.

Residents with questions about ice rentals at Mainway Arena should call 905-331-7465.

For information about public skating at other locations around the city, please visit www.burlington.ca/play.

While the city figures out which lawyers will represent them at the OMB hearing on the Adi development in Alton, a citizen reflects on how we got into this mess.

By Pepper Parr

January 15th, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

The development that council voted not to go forward with in the Alton Village got punted to the Ontario Municipal Board faster than the lawyers could lick the envelope and get the postage on it.

The city now has to go looking for legal talent to represent them on what is going to be a difficult case.
The city planner did her job – she asked council for specific direction – got it and set out working with the developer.

The project gets brought back, the community delegates against the project and council votes it down

The developer says he is “shocked” and notes that he never did like the Mayor; we now have personalities introduced to a sticky legal case.

Planning department and council talked past each other on this project. Did the city manager not see the disconnection? Apparently not.

How did this mess happen?
A regular reader, who is not identified for good reasons, wrote some comments that are strong enough to be passed along.

The writer is well qualified to make the comments:

“It’s obvious the city has a monumental challenge at the OMB, having to hire outside planners against the staff recommendation.

“I found watching the meetings on video revealing and alarming at how decisions are made at city hall. What struck me is how the planning department and council talked past each other, not understanding what the other was saying and what they were agreeing to. The planning department was presenting a new approach to handle the application – yet no one seems to have a hand on the tiller, guiding the process so ensure good decision making and mitigate the city’s risk.

Director of Planning Mary Lou Tanner

“Back at the July 11, 2016 meeting, the Planning Director was clear what she was asking for. Her focus was on seven design principles she identified and pointed out that she did not yet have agreement with Adi because two of these principles were not yet met:

Principle 5 – Implement tall building best practices. The modified design recommendations from staff (below) achieve this principle.

Principle 6 – Provide appropriate transitions between buildings. This is achieved with the modified design recommendations.

“She was asking council members to endorse the design approach and recommendations and direct staff to prepare an official plan and zoning bylaw amendment subject to these design recommendations (i.e. the remaining two principles) being met.

“When the majority of council voted in favour of the Planning Director’s requests, she thought she had their support to negotiate with ADI to make these design changes and develop recommendations based on the outcome of these negotiations.

Lots of talking; not enough listening.

“Back at the July 11, 2016 meeting, a few council members, including the Ward 6 councillor, expressed concern about the tower height. However, the report they approved never committed to reviewing the number of storeys, only “to optimize building placement and ensure an appropriate fit and transition in scale.”

Is this city council so deeply into a group think that they no longer know ho to listen?

“People were talking around the horseshoe, but seems like there was not enough listening. With no amendments to the report, it’s surprising that council would be surprised that the December report contained no changes to the number of storeys.

“Most of council didn’t seem to know what they were voting for, given the comments that this was just “going forward for discussion”. It wasn’t – the planning director was asking for approval to negotiate several design changes – but nothing to do with height – and in fact she did just that and brought back the file for approval. Their approval set off the chain of events that directly lead to Adi appealing to the OMB. We’re now in the soup we’re in because of that ill-considered decision and poorly thought through process.

“The director of planning never corrected the statements that this report was “just to continue discussions:” She should have been very clear about what she was asking. That lulled everyone, including the public, into thinking substantive changes were coming when clearly they were not – only the two design tweaks staff mentioned in the report. So the public didn’t show up in force till the 11th hour, and then council flips because as Tom Muir said, “it’s politics stupid”.

“Meanwhile, the public was ignored for months – with many council members waking up to their firm opposition only at the December meeting.

The lesson here is to:

a) know what you’re voting on;

b) get the public involved EARLY not at the end. I suspect (hope) this is the first and last time this process will be followed on a planning file given the mess it has created.

Chasing the shiny new object:

“The Planning Director’s recommendations were based on the Tall Building Guidelines – not the Official Plan or public input.

“The influence of outside consultants like Brent Toderian are obvious. From a professional perspective, city planners are captivated by the Vancouverism urban form, which they regard as the exciting, fresh approach to planning. They’re keen to import his thinking to Burlington.

“The Planning Director rushed through these guidelines earlier in the year, with most of council supporting her request, with only an “interim” proviso slapped on it.

“However, no effort was expended to get public input. Planning staff calls them “best practices”, but the guidelines have never been evaluated or debated to determine if Vancouver’s urban form is right for Burlington neighborhoods.

“An honest discussion on intensification desperately needed. This slipshod decision-making process is in the context of never having a healthy public discussion and getting broader buy-in on the right kind of intensification for Burlington.

Consultant Brent Toderian – the chief evangelist for the tall narrow buildings on a podium-planning model.

“The mayor had a “rah-rah” presentation at his Inspire Series – leaning heavily on Brent Toderian – the chief evangelist for the tall narrow buildings on a podium-planning model.

“We should be asking if intensification is the city’s highest ambition, or is it simply a means to a higher goal. Instead all we get are the empty “Grow Bold” platitudes.

“The lack of clarity on the meaning and limits of intensification, the disregard for the Official Plan and the embrace of the Tall Building Guidelines, coupled with the public being bypassed raises concerns about the nature of the relationship between the city’s planning department and the development industry.

“These factors breed uncertainty in our community for who decides what gets developed where.

“Once again, I wonder whose city is it?”

Indeed!

City fumbles with the technology used to record votes, make visual presentations and has to work with lousy cameras in the council chamber. We look like buffoons..

By Pepper Parr

January 7th, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

It wasn’t the best way to end the year but it was what it was.

After more than a year of talking about letting to public see how council members vote at city council meetings some technology was finally acquired and the public was about to see how it worked.

It didn’t – even though staff and city council had been prepped on which buttons to push to record their vote.
At one point the Mayor asked why some of the council members had not logged in to record their votes.

The system puts the issue to be voted up on the screen for the public to see – appreciate that these council meetings are broadcast live via Cogeco TV.

The issue being voted on appears on the large screen and on the iPads the council members use to cast their vote.

After a couple of embarrassing silences the Mayor declared that the vote, which was just to approve the minutes of the previous council meeting, was passed unanimously – they decided to give up on the technology for the evening and move on.

The Mayors iPad screen lets him know when all the council members have voted. He then enters a command and the results of the vote appear on the screen. Quite why there were nine possible votes was never explained – they just gave up on the technology.

Not one of their more glorious moments.

This stuff is not rocket science – it just makes them look a little on the dumb side.

City Manager James Ridge brings a Canadian Army background to his job; more drill needed Captain.

The technology dysfunction isn’t limited to the electronic voting.

During a Standing Committee meeting earlier in the month when there were 11 delegations on one matter – the clickers that allow a delegation to move through a presentation just would not work.

Ken White did his best to make the clicker he was given by the clerk – it just wouldn’t work for him – nor for anyone else who wanted to present some interactive video.

Time and again a delegator would throw their hands up in frustration when the device they were given to use would not perform.

If this were a private company making a presentation to a potential client they would all be fired – and would probably not earn the business they were after either.

These are not difficult problems to resolve – fix them and stop embarrassing everyone.

The production values of the web casts leave a lot to be desired. In a word they are lousy. The images are not crystal clear – put better cameras in place.

We look like buffoons from some hick town where internet access is still via dial up modem

Watershed conditions - rain and melting snow will swell creeks.

By Staff

January 3rd, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

The kids are still out of school and the weather is a little on the mild side,

Conservation Halton advises that Environment Canada is forecasting rainfall beginning late this evening and continuing through tomorrow into early Wednesday. Expected amounts will range up to approximately 20 mm.

Based on the forecast of mild temperatures and rainfall, combined with the partial melt of our existing snowpack, we may experience an increase in flows and water levels in our creeks throughout Halton. In addition, the snowpack melt may contribute to blockages at bridges and culverts and produce localized flooding concerns in low lying areas.

Widespread flooding is not currently anticipated. Our reservoirs are holding at winter levels which allow for larger storage capacity for circumstances of this nature.

Creeks on the east side of the city.

Conservation Halton will continue to monitor stream and weather conditions and will issue further messages as necessary and will issue an update to this Watershed Condition Statement –Water Safety message only if significant changes in the forecasts occur.

This Watershed Condition Statement will be in effect through to Wednesday January 4, 2017.

Mainway Arena temporarily closed for unexpected repairs - staff don't expect to re-open until at least the 27th.

By Staff

December 19th, 2016

BURLINGTON,ON

The City has temporarily closed Mainway Arena as the result of unexpected repairs.

Two of the three compressors used at the arena to help maintain the ice surface have stopped working and require replacement. The new compressors are expected to arrive early this week with installation estimated for the Golden Horseshoe Tournament starting on Dec. 27 in Burlington.

Budget public parent on stairs at ice rink

Parents aren’t going to be able to take watch hockey games or skate free at the Mainway area until perhaps as late as the 27th.

“Ensuring Mainway Arena is open and available to ice users as soon as possible is a priority for the city,” said Chris Glenn, the city’s director of parks and recreation. “Plans are being made to accommodate ice users at other city arenas where possible.”

Residents with questions about their ice rentals scheduled at Mainway Arena can call 905-331-7465.

For information about public skating at other locations around the city, visit www.burlington.ca/play.

Holiday Transit Service - walk on Christmas Day and New Year's Day. You could use your bike on New Street!

notices100x100 By Staff

December 19th, 2016

BURLINGTON, ON

There will be no Burlington Transit service on December 25 (Christmas Day) and January 1 (New Year’s Day).

For information on the level of service provided from Dec. 24, 2016 through to Jan. 2, 2017, please see our Holiday Service page which contains last trip departure information for early end to service Dec. 24 (Christmas Eve) and extended trips on select routes offered on Dec. 31 (New Year’s Eve).

Temporary RecExpress Shut Down

By Staff

December 119th, 2016

BURLINGTON, ON

RecExpress will be shut down from 9:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 20 until 2 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2016 to allow for system upgrades.

RecExpress is a city service that allows people to register for recreational programs.

Board of Education publishes their financial statements.

By Staff

December 16th, 2016

BURLINGTON, ON

It isn’t bed time reading but it is the kind of information for parents that are at all concerned as to just what is happening at the school board.

Board of Education staff have recommended Central high school be closed in 2018

The possible closing of two high schools in Burlington has drawn attention to the financial side of the Board of Education – they make up a sizable chunk of your tax bill.

Lester B. Pearson high school has been recommended for closure in 2018.

The Halton District School Board has posted the 2015-16 financial statements, for the year ending August 31, 2016, on the Board’s website at www.hdsb.ca (search: financial statements).

The 2015-16 audited financial statements include:

Management Report
Independent Auditors’ Report
Consolidated Statement of Financial Position
Consolidated Statement of Financial Operations
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Net Debt
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

For residents who do not have Internet access, the Halton District School Board’s 2015-16 financial information is also available:

• By mail, by calling the Business Services Department 905-335-3663, ext. 3261

• For pick-up at the J.W. Singleton Education Centre, 2050 Guelph Line, Burlington

Snow plows, salters and sidewalk cleaners - all on standby.

By Staff

December 11, 2016

BURLINGTON, ON

The City of Burlington is ready for this afternoon/evening’s predicted snowfall of from 10 to 15 centimetres.
Crews and plow trucks are out on the roads today and have begun salting.

The city monitors road conditions 24 hours a day, seven days a week, salting, sanding and plowing as needed.

Please drive safely.

If you want to learn where the snow plows have been check the link

Detours for the Santa Claus Parade, Sunday, Dec. 4, 2016

notices100x100 By Staff

December 2, 2016

BURLINGTON, ON
This Sunday, Dec. 4, 2016 is the Burlington Santa Claus parade. Due to multiple road closures, several routes and stops are impacted from approximately 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will require detours on Routes 3, 4, 10, 21, and 25. Stops will be bagged in road closure areas.

Visit Burlington’s parade information page to view a map and get more information.

Delays are expected due to increased crowds and traffic. Please adjust your travel plans accordingly and use Trip Planner or call 905-639-0550 for next bus information. 51st-santa-clause-parade-2016

Jane McKenna wins Burlington PC nomination by 41 votes over Jane Michael

News 100 blue By Pepper Parr

November 27, 2106

BURLINGTON, ON

Update: We have been advised that the Progressive Conservative nomination meeting for the Burlington association held yesterday was managed by the party offices. While Jane Michaels said she did have scrutineers in the count she was not advised as to how many votes were actually cast. Why the secret?

There were two Janes running for the provincial Progressive Conservative nomination. Jane McKenna won the nomination – this is the third time she has been the nominee. In DATE she was basically given the nomination and went on to win the seat defeating Burlington lawyer Karmel Sakran.

Jane McKenna with her new look.

In 2014 McKenna had to defend her seat against first time Liberal candidate Eleanor McMahon and was defeated.

She entered the ring for a third time Saturday and defeated that other Jane – Jane Michael, who is the chair of the Halton District Catholic school board by 41 votes.

Michael said she had a “good honest run with a stellar team that did everything possible to get out the vote.”

A person in a position to know said Michael ran into a number of obstacles getting herself recognized as a candidate claiming that she was interviewed by the PC party as a candidate just three days prior to the nomination meeting and was approved just 12 hours before the nomination meeting took place.

According to this source Michael received the membership list less than 12 hours before the voting took place and that 15 of the members she had signed up were challenged as members.

This source also claims that 25 of the McKenna voters all lived at the same address.

It appears to have been messy.

The Gazette was not able to reach anyone in the McKenna campaign team.

The next provincial election takes place on June 7, 2018 when McKenna will have to run against McMahon who has been made a member of the Wynne cabinet as Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport and a member of the Ontario government Treasury Board.

Background links:
McKenna’s first nomination.