Council Minutes - Feb 7/07

February 7, 2007

INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF HILTON BEACH
Council Meeting
February 7th, 2007

The meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m. Present were Mayor Hore and Councillors Crack, Hope and Sullivan. Councillor Stevens had advised that he would be late.

07-14 Moved by J. Sullivan Seconded by L. Crack
Resolved to approve the minutes of the January 10th, 2007 meeting as presented with the correction that the amount of the voucher was $150,185.02.
Carried

Councillor Stevens arrived during the review of the voucher.

07-15 Moved by W. Stevens Seconded by J. Sullivan
Resolved to authorize payment of Voucher #07-1 in the amount of $45,840.22.
Carried

The Problem Detail Sheet Summary was reviewed. No items were closed and no new ones were added.

The Clerks Report was noted. The application for the Infrastructure grant has been submitted.

Notice was received from the Algoma Health Unit that the 2007 levy would be 20.8% lower for all municipalities.

A copy of a thank you letter from the Hilton Union Fire Chief to the donor of the Nebulous Emergency Floatation Device to be used in ice rescue was noted.

Joe Books, in his capacity of Emergency Measures Coordinator, provided a checklist to be used in the declaration of an emergency.

The appointment for the Algoma District Homes for the Aged Board will expire on March 31st. Council had previously supported the appointment of John Fullerton. No other candidates have come forward at this time.

07-16 Moved by R. Hope Seconded by J. Sullivan
Resolved to support the appointment of John Fullerton as the Area 4 representative on the Algoma District Homes for the Aged Board of Management.
Carried

A copy of a letter from the Town of Thessalon to MPAC expressing concern over the estimated levy increase of 11% in for the next three years. The increase for 2007 will be 5.35%.

The auditor provided information on the changes in auditing standards. New international auditing standards have been developed, have been accepted by Canada and will apply to audits of all entities in Canada. These new standards will increase the amount of work by the auditor and therefore the fees. Each entity can reduce this increase by documentation of systems and risk management

A copy of correspondence to The Sault Star from the Township of Macdonald, Meredith and Aberdeen Addl protesting the replacement of the Country Calendar on the District page with the Three Day Planner in the first section was received. While some may have depended on the Country Calendar, which appeared on Wednesday it is likely that the fact the event appears three times in the new format will give it much higher exposure to a wider number of readers. Many people only get the paper on Friday and Saturday.

St. Joseph Township has asked that the Planning Board review the issues raised about the proposed new Official Plan by a group of ratepayers who made a presentation at a recent Council meeting.

A letter of appreciation was received from the Township of St. Joseph thanking Council for their support of the efforts to have lighting installed at Kents Corner.

The annual tax ratio by-law, which establishes the ratios between the various classes, was considered. There were no changes from prior years.

07-17 Moved by W. Stevens Seconded by L. Crack
Resolved to give first, second and third readings to By-law #895 being a by-law to establish the tax ratios for 2007.
Carried

A draft job description for marina manger was reviewed. The position will be advertised and the new manager will be in place in time to prepare for the season.

The sale of sections of lanes and a section of the shore road allowance will be advertised for sale.

Notice of the amalgamated tender deadline was received from the Road Supervisor Association. No tender items will be needed by the Village this year.

The FONOM/MMAH Municipal conference will be held in Kirkland Lake on May 9 - 11. Council authorized the Clerk to attend.

07-18 Moved by J. Sullivan Seconded by W. Stevens
Resolved to give first, second and third readings to By-law #896 being a by-law to confirm the proceedings of the Council meeting held on February 7th, 2007 and confirm the taking of any action authorized therein and thereby.
Carried

07-19 Moved by L. Crack Seconded by R. Hope
Resolved to adjourn to meet again on March 6th, 2007 or at the call of the Mayor.
Carried

APPRECIATION CORNER

To those who have recently donated to Village-related projects and activities in memory of a loved one or friend. The Village can issue a receipt that is valid as a charitable deduction for Income Tax purposes. Unfortunately, in the past month there have been too many losses to our community. Donations have been received for the Lost Loon Music Festival, the Hilton Beach Car Show, the Mariners Library and the Hilton Hall. These donations can reflect the individuals particular interests and honour their memory.


BEAT THE WINTER BLUES COMMUNITY POTLUCK AND GAME NIGHT

The Recreation Committee will be holding a community potluck on Sunday, March 4th at 6 p.m. at the Hall. The Committee will provide the turkey and beverages. People are asked to bring a hot dish, a salad or dessert. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend. This is an evening to enjoy an excellent supper and visiting with friends and new acquaintances. Everyone is encouraged to bring along a board game or cards for an evening of games. Scrabble and Sequence have been suggested and all others are welcome.


VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR THE HILTON UNION FIRE DEPARTMENT

The Hilton Union Fire Department is always encouraging anyone who is interested in serving as a volunteer firefighter to contact Joe Books (246-0680). There are fire practices every second Tuesday evening. Turnout gear is provided. Joe will be happy to discuss your possible involvement. This is a good opportunity for anyone over 18 to participate in the protection of their community.