James A Woods

The council discussed various operational and administrative matters, including maintenance updates for roads, parks, and buildings, and a culvert replacement project on Frog Creek Road. Significant attention was given to the fire department's operations, including procurement of equipment, participation in upcoming Canada Day parades, and approval of a new department crest. Financial approvals were granted for accounts payable, insurance renewal, and applications for several grants, including the Hydro One Community Partnership Grant and the Green Municipal Fund. Additionally, the council appointed a resident for the Senior of the Year Award and participated in a closed session regarding solicitor-client privileged advice.

The Council meeting involved a presentation from the FOTENN Planning and Design Group regarding necessary revisions to the current Official Plan to ensure conformity with provincial plans, the Planning Act, and the Provincial Policy Statement 2024. The discussion outlined the purpose of the Official Plan as a framework for municipal land-use decisions and detailed the next steps in the process, including future public open houses, the finalization of the draft, public notice requirements, and the eventual review and approval by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

The meeting covered a range of municipal business, including updates on new fire management regulations and the review of monthly building reports for both Alberton and AMBIS. The Council received reports from the CAO/Clerk-Treasurer regarding upcoming election training and a correction to by-law numbering, as well as an update on property tax billings. Key actions included the approval of a Community Clean-Up Event and Free Waste Day, the authorization of an Ethernet switch replacement for the office, and the approval of a grant application for the Enhancing Access to Spaces for Everyone (EASE) program. Information regarding modernized Education Property Tax remittances was also presented.

This Accessibility Plan for The Corporation of the Township of Alberton outlines measures to identify, remove, and prevent barriers for people with disabilities utilizing municipal facilities and services from 2023 to 2028. It reviews past initiatives, identifies existing barriers across physical, architectural, communication, attitudinal, technological, and policy domains, and details strategies for their removal and prevention. The plan aims to ensure compliance with the Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2001, and foster full participation for all individuals within the community.

The Council meeting addressed several key areas including road conditions, financial matters, and reports from municipal officers. Discussions involved road maintenance, gravel road grading schedules, and culvert replacements. The council approved financial reports, payment of accounts payable, and accepted a tender for snow removal and sanding. They also supported the Alberton Volunteer Fire Department's participation in the annual Halloween Trunk or Treat Event and acknowledged a bursary for mental health education. New business included a surplus asset sale of a 1992 Mack truck, approval of a Disconnecting from Work Policy, and a Library Services Agreement with the Fort Frances Public Library Board. The council also discussed requests for support, including a National Guaranteed Livable Basic Income Program and increased funding for NOSM Medical University.