Essex County Council Regular Meeting Minutes

Wednesday, August 11, 2021

Meeting Time: 6:30 PM Closed Meeting; 7:00 PM Regular Meeting

https://video.isilive.ca/countyofessex/live.html

Council:

• Gary McNamara, Warden, Mayor, Town of Tecumseh
• Joe Bachetti, Deputy Mayor, Town of Tecumseh
• Tracey Bailey, Deputy Mayor, Municipality of Lakeshore
• Tom Bain, Mayor, Municipality of Lakeshore
• Marc Bondy, Mayor, Town of LaSalle
• Hilda MacDonald, Mayor, Municipality of Leamington
• Leo Meloche, Deputy Mayor, Town of Amherstburg
• Richard Meloche, Deputy Mayor, Town of Essex
• Nelson Santos, Deputy Warden, Mayor, Town of Kingsville
• Gord Queen, Deputy Mayor, Town of Kingsville
• Larry Snively, Mayor, Town of Essex
• Larry Verbeke, Deputy Mayor, Municipality of Leamington

Absent:

• Aldo DiCarlo, Mayor, Town of Amherstburg
• Crystal Meloche, Deputy Mayor, Town of LaSalle

Administration:

• Mike Galloway, Chief Administrative Officer
• Mary Birch, Director of Council & Community Services/Clerk
• Jayne Brooks Keller, Administrator - Sun Parlor Home
• Jeanie Diamond Francis, Manager, Community Services
• Robin Greenall, CEO/Chief Librarian, Essex County Library
• Bruce Krauter, Chief, Essex Windsor EMS
• Jane Mustac, Director of Infrastructure Services/County Engineer
• Sandra Zwiers, Director of Financial Services/Treasurer

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1.

Closed Meeting

A Closed Meeting of County Council was held at 6:30 p.m., pursuant to Section 239 (2) (b) of the Municipal Act, 2001, as amended to discuss personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees.

• 168-2021
  Moved By Tom Bain
  Seconded By Larry Verbeke

  That Council move into a closed meeting pursuant to Section 239 (2) (b) of the Municipal Act, 2001, as amended for the following reason:

  • personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees.
  Carried
• 172-2021
  Moved By Larry Snively
  Seconded By Richard Meloche

  That Council move out of in-camera session at 6:59 pm.

  Carried

2.

Moment of Reflection

3.

Singing of ‘O Canada’

4.

Recording of Attendance

Warden McNamara attended the meeting virtually from the Essex County Civic Centre, Council Chambers. All other members of Council participated in the meeting virtually, via video conferencing from alternate remote locations.

Mayor Aldo DiCarlo and Deputy Mayor Crystal Meloche were absent.

5.

Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest

There were no disclosures of pecuniary interest raised.

6.

Adoption of Regular Meeting Minutes

Joe Bachetti, Deputy Mayor, Town of Tecumseh joined the meeting at 7:00 PM.

Tracey Bailey, Deputy Mayor, Municipality of Lakeshore joined the meeting at 7:00 PM.

Hilda MacDonald, Mayor, Municipality of Leamington joined the meeting at 7:00 PM.

Leo Meloche, Deputy Mayor, Town of Amherstburg joined the meeting at 7:00 PM.

Richard Meloche, Deputy Mayor, Town of Essex joined the meeting at 7:00 PM.

Nelson Santos, Deputy Warden, Mayor, Town of Kingsville joined the meeting at 7:00 PM.

Gord Queen, Deputy Mayor, Town of Kingsville joined the meeting at 7:00 PM.

Tom Bain, Mayor, Municipality of Lakeshore joined the meeting at 7:00 PM.

Marc Bondy, Mayor, Town of LaSalle joined the meeting at 7:00 PM.

Larry Snively, Mayor, Town of Essex joined the meeting at 7:00 PM.

Larry Verbeke, Deputy Mayor, Municipality of Leamington joined the meeting at 7:00 PM.

Mike Galloway, Chief Administrative Officer joined the meeting at 7:00 PM.

Mary Birch, Director of Council & Community Services/Clerk joined the meeting at 7:00 PM.

Jayne Brooks Keller, Administrator - Sun Parlor Home joined the meeting at 7:00 PM.

Gary McNamara, Warden, Mayor, Town of Tecumseh joined the meeting at 7:00 PM.

• 173-2021
  Moved By Gord Queen
  Seconded By Larry Snively

  That the minutes of the July 21, 2021 Regular Meeting of Essex County Council be adopted as presented.

  Carried

7.

County Warden’s Welcome and Remarks

Warden McNamara welcomed the members of County Council, Administration and members of the public and delivered the following greeting:

We need reasons to be optimistic these days, and we’ve been given at least two so far this month.

We thank Canada’s Parliament for designating Aug. 1 Emancipation Day. On this day we were asked to reflect, educate and engage in the ongoing fight against anti-Black racism and discrimination – as we should every day.

The recognition of Emancipation Day and the shameful history of slavery in Canada has deep roots in Essex County and Windsor. Now it has a place on the national calendar.

It is a day we can honour the heroes – past and present – in our Black community who have kept their history alive and fought racism at every turn. Their leadership is helping us move forward and giving us a reason to celebrate a better future.

Meanwhile, half a world away in Japan, our Canadian athletes gave us other reasons to cheer as they competed in the 2020 Olympics.

There were challenges, including a one-year delay, blistering outdoor temperatures and stands empty of spectators due to the pandemic. But our Olympians focused and gave their best for Canada.

We are in awe of our local athletes and coaches. They lifted us on their wings. We all felt the elation when LaSalle’s Kyle Masse tore through the pool to capture two silver medals and a bronze to add to her growing collection.

We were just as inspired by the performances of our athletes who didn’t make the podium. We know how long and hard you trained to earn a spot on this world stage.

Congratulations to all of you for representing us so courageously and making us proud.

8.

Delegations and Presentations

• 174-2021
  Moved By Hilda MacDonald
  Seconded By Tom Bain

  That the Leamington Homelessness Project delegation be permitted to address County Council.

  Carried

8.1

Leamington Homelessness Project 

Alissa Enns, Project Leader, Leamington Homelessness Project, to provide a presentation to Council with information regarding the results of the project data collection and to discuss a new homelessness service referral system for individuals in the County. 

Alissa Enns and Carolyn Warkentin provided a presentation outlining the survey findings of the Leamington Homelessness Project.  Ms. Enns explained the age groups that were surveyed and the percentages of such that are concerned about losing housing, are not currently housed, are experiencing absolute homelessness, or are defined as hidden homelessness.

The survey results indicated that Leamington outpaces Windsor on a per capita basis for rates of homelessness.  Ms. Enns explained the survey mechanisms employed to collect the data.  Offering information and suggestions to other communities embarking on a data collection project.

Ms. Enns indicated that key stakeholder engagement is critically important to pinpoint survey locations in order to gather the most complete information. In addition, she recommended a survey team who are properly trained to receive and respond to stories of trauma.

Carolyn Warkentin updated Council on the resource coordination efforts for housing supports throughout Windsor and Essex County, referred to as County Housing Connections.  The collaboration includes South Essex Community Council (SECC), Family Services Windsor-Essex, Housing Information Services, and The Bridge, Leamington. This group has established a referral system for those experiencing homelessness with the goal to provide connections to the most appropriate support.

Ms. Warkentin explained that SECC is the communication hub.  Calls for assistance are fielded through their office and referred from there.

The complete report will be available September 17, 2021 and includes how this model can be used to collect information in other communities.

Warden McNamara and members of County Council commended the group for their collaboration and work they are doing.

9.

Communications

9.1

Correspondence

• 175-2021
  Moved By Marc Bondy
  Seconded By Nelson Santos

  That the correspondence listed on the Regular Agenda for August 11, 2021, be received and any noted action approved. 

  Carried

9.1.1

Invest Windsor-Essex

Business Development Initiatives in Windsor-Essex - Q2 Report and Performance Metrics

9.1.2

Pathway to Potential

July 2021 - Information Sharing Edition

9.1.3

Town of Amherstburg

Resolution RE Support of Free PSA Testing for Men

9.1.4

Town of Cobourg

Resolution RE Support of Bill C-6, an Act to Amend the Criminal Code of Canada (Prohibiting Conversion Therapy)

9.1.5

Town of LaSalle

Resolution RE Endorsement for Resolution in Opposition of Capital Gain Tax on Primary Residence

9.1.6

City of Stratford

Resolution RE Petition for Phasing-out Ontario's Gas-powered Electrical Generation Plants

9.1.7

Town of Tecumseh

Resolution RE support for Essex County Council resolution requesting Province to reconsider criteria used in COVID-19 safe reopening strategy for business.

9.1.8

City of Woodstock

Resolution RE Affordable Housing Crisis in Canada

9.1.9

Northumberland County

Resolution RE Municipal Court Managers’ Association / Provincial Offences Act Advocacy

9.1.10

City of Windsor

Resolution RE Housing and Shelter Hub redesign

9.1.11

Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing

Letter from Deputy Minister Kate Manson-Smith RE Main Street Recovery Act: Proclamation of Amendments to the Municipal Act and City of Toronto Act

9.1.12

Association of Municipal Managers, Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario (AMCTO)

July 28, 2021 - Advocacy Update: Submission to the Province’s Strengthening Municipal Codes of Conduct consultation

9.1.13

Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO)

July 17, 2021 - Highlights of Some of AMO 2021 Programming Bonuses

9.1.14

Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO)

July 20, 2021 - AMO Policy Update – Northern Wildfire Evacuations and Ontario Connects

9.1.15

Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO)

July 20, 2021 - AMO Training: Navigating Conflict Relationships as an Elected Official September 14/15, 2021

9.1.16

Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO)

July 22, 2021 - AMO Watchfile Online

9.1.17

Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO)

July 24, 2021 - Hydro One Delegate Engagement, Ministers' Forums and City of London Study Tour

9.1.18

Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO)

July 27, 2021 - Training Opportunities: Canada Revenue Agency GST/HST Information Session, and Additional Dates added for the AMO-OFIFC Indigenous Community Awareness Training

9.1.19

Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO)

July 29, 2021 - AMO Watchfile Online

9.1.20

Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO)

August 5, 2021 - AMO Watchfile Online

9.2

Resolutions

There are no resolutions for Council's consideration for August 11, 2021.

10.

Consent Agenda

• 176-2021
  Moved By Larry Verbeke
  Seconded By Joe Bachetti

  That the recommendations in the Administrative Reports listed as item 10.1, on the Consent Agenda for August 11, 2021, be approved and further that the information item listed as item 10.2 on the said Consent Agenda be received.

  Carried

10.1

Approval of Invoices, Legal and Consulting Services

Report 2021-0811-CAO-R007-MG, Approval of Invoices, Legal and Consulting Services, dated August 11, 2021 from Mike Galloway, Chief Administrative Officer

10.2

Windsor Essex County Environment Committee (WECEC)

Minutes of the WECEC meeting held June 24, 2021.

11.

Reports and Questions

11.1

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation - Rapid Housing Initiative - Round 2

Report number 2021-0811-CCS-R007-MB, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation - Rapid Housing Initiative - Round 2, dated August 11, 2021 from Mary Birch, Director of Council and Community Services. (Report added August 10, 2021)

Mary Birch provided the two-part report to County Council.  Ms. Birch explained that as the service provider for the region, the City of Windsor will be applying for a second round of funding under the Rapid Housing Initiative.  This funding could provide eight affordable housing units at The Bridge in Leamington; 4 subsidized through the Bridge Case Management services and 4 rental units for priority populations.

In order to meet the criteria for funding, a letter of support is required from a partner municipality as well as funding for operational costs of the project for a twenty-year period. The County was requested to offer up to $48,000 annually for the twenty-year post construction operating period of the proposed development.

The City has advised the County that current levels of funding from senior levels of government are not sufficient to support additional programs. County finance agreed this funding could be accommodated through the tax levy.

Ms. Birch outlined the second purpose of the report speaks to future needs for affordable housing. It is anticipated that additional grant opportunities from upper levels of government will continue to become available. Additional affordable housing build projects and subsequent maintenance are not covered in the arbitrated agreement with the City of Windsor and the County of Essex awarded in 1999.  In order to be financially prepared to fund operating costs of future builds provided by grant opportunities, a regional long-term strategy discussion must commence requiring the rewriting or amending of the cost sharing agreement between the County of Essex and the City of Windsor.

Discussion with Council included strong support for the commencement of an agreement review to address the housing and homelessness situations experienced by County residents.  Council supported the recommendation proposed by Nelson Santos to add the word ‘immediate’ to the second to last recommendation speaking to the commencement of discussions with the City of Windsor.

• 177-2021
  Moved By Nelson Santos
  Seconded By Marc Bondy

  It is recommended that Essex County Council receive the memo from the Executive Director of Housing and Children’s Services regarding the Rapid Housing Initiative for information, and further;

  THAT Essex County Council pre-commit the annual operating budget funding required, currently estimated at $48,000 in each of the post-construction operating years to a maximum of 20 years, to support the Round 2 Rapid Housing Initiative project for The Bridge, detailed in the Executive Director of Housing and Children’s Services memo dated August 6, 2021, subject to refinement of the annual budget estimate as the developments are finalized, and further;

  THAT Essex County Council approve, providing a letter of support to the City of Windsor for submission with the application to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation for the required operating and/or capital funding related to The Bridge project, and further;

  THAT Essex County Council approve, entering into an agreement with the City of Windsor for the 20-year operating commitment for the County based on compliance with the Contribution Agreement with CMHC on the Rapid Housing Initiative, and further;

  THAT Essex County Council request Windsor City Council to support the immediate commencement of discussions on the development of a Regional Affordable Housing Strategy, including funding responsibilities, and further;

  THAT Essex County Council request Windsor City Council to support the commencement of discussions on the review of the 1999 Social Housing Cost Sharing arbitrated agreement, with a view to addressing cost sharing provisions for new regional units and regional housing and homelessness initiatives.

  Carried

11.2

Sun Parlor Home COVID-19 Experience

Report number 2021-0811-SPH-R003-JBK, Sun Parlor Home COVID-19 Experience, dated August 11, 2021 from Jayne Brooks-Keller, Administrator, Sun Parlor Home. 

Jayne Brooks-Keller provided Council with the report updating Council on actions taken to reduce risk at Sun Parlor Home (SPH) during COVID pandemic.

Ms. Brooks-Keller assured Council that care and services for residents and their families remained the primary focus through the second and third waves of COVID and this commitment remains steadfast.

Key points of impact at SPH include increase staffing complements to accommodate resident care under restrictions and cohort staffing arrangements. The cohort work in pods and every effort is made to keep them together as recommended by the Ministry for Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC).  Increasing staffing levels has provided significant challenge due to shortage of qualified staff.

Surveillance, screening and testing of staff and visitors also increased staffing requirements. A mass vaccination program was offered in house to SPH staff. At the time of the report, eighty percent of staff were fully vaccinated and ninety-three percent of residents.

Being an older facility, social distancing requirements presented challenges.  Alternating dining arrangements also required an increase in staffing requirements. The 2021 budget approved a full-time staff member dedicated to IPAC and the facility is seeing very positive results from that addition.

Effective communication among residents, Ministry, families and staff was critical.  Increased Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) standards required significant increases in stock levels and cost. Processes for storage and ordering were adjusted following the guidelines of many regulating bodies.

Increased funding from higher orders of government were required and will continue to be required to furnish needs.

Warden McNamara applauded Ms. Brooks-Keller and the SPH staff for their dedication to their residents and providing superior care during this difficult time.

• 178-2021
  Moved By Marc Bondy
  Seconded By Tom Bain

  That Essex County Council receive the report, Sun Parlor Home COVID-19 Experience as information.

  Carried

11.3

Investment Performance Report - 2020

Report number 2021-0811-FIN-R08-SZ, Investment Performance Report - 2020, dated August 11, 2021 from Sandra Zwiers, Director of Finance/Treasurer.

Sandra Zwiers provided the annual Investment Performance Report for the 2020 calendar year.  The report included information regarding contents and performance of the County’s investments.

Ms. Zwiers reported the investments performed well in 2020.   Details regarding pandemic impacts are found in the analysis section of the report. Time has provided partial recovery of the portfolio losses experienced early in 2020 and is performing well into 2021.

As required by County Policy, Ms. Zwiers attested that all investments have been made in accordance with the Policy and its goals.

• 179-2021
  Moved By Marc Bondy
  Seconded By Leo Meloche

  That Essex County Council receive the Investment Performance Report 2020 for information.

  Carried

11.4

Projected Results of Operations 2021

Report number 2021-0811-FIN-R12-SZ, Projected Results of Operations 2021, dated August 11, 2021 from Sandra Zwiers, Director of Finance/Treasurer.

Sandra Zwiers outlines that the report forecasts operations to the end of the fiscal year, December 2021. The data is comprised of actual information available to the end of June 2021 and prepared in consultation with County department heads and analyzed by County financial staff.

A surplus of slightly higher than $1,000,000 was projected, noting that projections are subject to a number of assumptions outlined in the report.

Long-Term Care and EMS have received relief funding as a result of COVID-19 for operational pressures with stated end dates.  It is anticipated the funding will continue beyond currently stated expiry dates. In the event the supports are discontinued, Safe Restart funds have been earmarked to supplement costs supporting these industries.

Subsidy reductions for Sun Parlor home contributed to a negative budget variance of just over $200,000.

Ms. Zwiers cautions that unused vacation time and accumulating vacation banks may create a future financial risk due to overtime being paid to backfill vacations in the future.

Some capital projects have been impacted by supply chain interruptions and were deferred to 2022.  In many cases, the deferred projects were funded by reserves and therefore do not impact the budget. However, EMS deferred projects do have a levy impact.

Infrastructure Services is showing a $500,000 surplus due to favourable tendering combined with OCIF funds.

General Government is showing a $250,000 surplus driven mostly by the positive gains in the investment portfolio.

External Commitments were trending in a surplus position as well and administration recommends to allocate surplus to reserves to address future affordable housing capital needs.

• 180-2021
  Moved By Gord Queen
  Seconded By Richard Meloche

  That Essex County Council receives the Projected Results of Operations 2021 for information.

  Carried

12.

Unfinished Business

There was no Unfinished Business at the August 11, 2021 meeting. 

13.

New Business

13.1

Public Reporting of Closed Meeting

A Closed Meeting of County Council was held at 6:30 p.m. prior to the regular Council meeting, pursuant to Section 239 (2) (b) of the Municipal Act, 2001, as amended.

Administration provided Council information regarding a personal matter about an identifiable individual.

14.

Adoption of By-Laws

• 181-2021
  Moved By Marc Bondy
  Seconded By Tracey Bailey

  That By-law 2021-29, having been read a first, second and third time, be finally passed and enacted. 

  Carried

14.1

By-law Number 2021-29

Being a By-law to Confirm the proceedings of the Council of the Corporation of the County of Essex, for the meeting of August 11, 2021. 

15.

Notice of Motion

There were no Notices of Motion presented at the August 11, 2021 meeting. 

16.

Adjournment

That the Essex County Council meeting for August 11, 2021 be adjourned at 9:00 PM.

• 182-2021
  Moved By Larry Verbeke
  Seconded By Nelson Santos
  Carried