The province in order to protect Lake Ontario proposes to restrict growth in Simcoe County, capping the future population of Simcoe County. How is this going to impact growth in Ramara Township? Simcoe County if taken as a whole is going to be restricted in the number of hectares it will eventually develop and the county will have the final say where these properties will be. After the cap is met, no more land will be available.
Some in Innisfil believe that it should become the hub for jobs growth. Its' council is proposing to establish a Growth Management Subcommittee. The committee will "provide direction to council on how to best implement the growth strategy for the town under current circumstances."
While the article doesn't specify Ramara, it is implied when it states giving Orillia a quota of lands for jobs related development doesn't make sense. Innisfil has a vision that it become the employment hub of the county?
At Ramara's last council meeting Ward 2 Clr. O'Donnell proposed Ramara could become a regional transportation hub by establishing a container handling facility. To me a good idea, given CN line goes through the township, and enventually a 400 series highway will have to go up the east side of Lake Simcoe. Why not in Ramara?
But this kind of development will not happen on its own. It will take leadership, vision and planning (ie $$$$). Ramara do you it in you to deliver this project. Looks like Innisfil and the rest of Southern Simcoe County municipalities will be actively lobbying to ensure growth will happen there.
There means not here in Ramara! I see the threat. I am not sure if Ramara Tsp. does, or has a strategy to ensure Ramara will receive its fair share of booty to develop!
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
HR Subcommittee..... What's all the fuss about!
I endorse Ramara council's 4-3 decision, at their Dec. 17th session, to create an HR subcommittee. In doing so council has directed Comrade Ricky to establish "terms of reference" for this new body. Council did not establish a timeframe for Ricky to respond, and who knows when he will comply to council's demand, since he fears tresspass into his personnel domain. This couldn't be further from the truth. Shame on Da Baz to raise the spector of unionization of municipal staff, at last nights meeting, in order to get his fellow councillors to vote no.
Fear not Comrade Ricky. Council is just looking to give you guidence, that all. This subcommittee is one of policy review and not policy enforcement. This role of oversight is well within council's clearly defined mandate. When was the last time council undertook a review of current HR policies? Where do these policies reside? Who can view these policies? Do these policies ensure the township hires, trains and retains the best possible talent? Are these policies complient with current government regulations? Has a risk assessment been undertaken of these policies to ensure that they protect the township from exposure to litigation? What are the policies regarding renumeration? How is staff evaluated, and who is responsible for making these evaluations?
I could go on and on. The mandate for this HR subcommittee will be to create a body of knowledge that covers all aspects of labour relations. I take it that Clr. Neher had some un answered concerns about these matters. She was successfully able to convince a majortity of council that this void of info needs to be addressed. The subcommittee will address this void. This is good policy.
The creation of an HR subcommittee is a good proactive step. These policies will guide township staff. Once policies are enacted council's role will come to an end. Then it will be Comrade Ricky's job to see that these policies are complied with. This is not micromanagement, this is good governance.
Fear not Comrade Ricky. Council is just looking to give you guidence, that all. This subcommittee is one of policy review and not policy enforcement. This role of oversight is well within council's clearly defined mandate. When was the last time council undertook a review of current HR policies? Where do these policies reside? Who can view these policies? Do these policies ensure the township hires, trains and retains the best possible talent? Are these policies complient with current government regulations? Has a risk assessment been undertaken of these policies to ensure that they protect the township from exposure to litigation? What are the policies regarding renumeration? How is staff evaluated, and who is responsible for making these evaluations?
I could go on and on. The mandate for this HR subcommittee will be to create a body of knowledge that covers all aspects of labour relations. I take it that Clr. Neher had some un answered concerns about these matters. She was successfully able to convince a majortity of council that this void of info needs to be addressed. The subcommittee will address this void. This is good policy.
The creation of an HR subcommittee is a good proactive step. These policies will guide township staff. Once policies are enacted council's role will come to an end. Then it will be Comrade Ricky's job to see that these policies are complied with. This is not micromanagement, this is good governance.
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Water and Sewer Rates in Ramara
As I read news articles from around the province, one thing Ramaran's can look for in the new year will be a significant increases to there water and sewer rates. I don't see how it can be avoided. With no documented policy for substainable operation for these services, councils past, present and most likely future will try to avoid proper investments in this infastucture, unless forced to do so, by provincial legislation. That legislation exists, only waiting to be proclaimed. This will end the use of ratepayer taxes to subsidize these systems. Ramara's Treasurer confirmed the use, of this practice, at the meeting on Dec. 10th.
At a meeting this spring, (remember when the lights went out at Ramona CC, the township decided to consolidate water and sewer rates), I asked Comrade Ricky, "what is the state of Ramara water infastructure?" Ricky had no answer. Or did he. He authorizes so many engineering studies, somewhere must lie this answer. Not having an answer was truly negligent, but unfortunately no one on council took up my very leading question, and let Ricky off the hook. Users in Ramara, be prepared, to take one in the jewels! I suspect these systems will be in need of substantial $$$ to fix, what they have neglected to fix, in years gone by.
Thankfully I am my own water and septic owner/operator and will be immune to this pending big increase (assuming an end to taxpayer subsidies). Someday I may be requested to join this exclusive "water" club. Until that day arrives, I'm going to devote all my efforts to ensure that the current water and sewer infastructure is up to standard, and that I won't be forced to subsidize all those years of descretionary neglect.
We have the government we deserve, as ratepayers neglect to investigate what their government is up to. People, they are up to no good!
At a meeting this spring, (remember when the lights went out at Ramona CC, the township decided to consolidate water and sewer rates), I asked Comrade Ricky, "what is the state of Ramara water infastructure?" Ricky had no answer. Or did he. He authorizes so many engineering studies, somewhere must lie this answer. Not having an answer was truly negligent, but unfortunately no one on council took up my very leading question, and let Ricky off the hook. Users in Ramara, be prepared, to take one in the jewels! I suspect these systems will be in need of substantial $$$ to fix, what they have neglected to fix, in years gone by.
Thankfully I am my own water and septic owner/operator and will be immune to this pending big increase (assuming an end to taxpayer subsidies). Someday I may be requested to join this exclusive "water" club. Until that day arrives, I'm going to devote all my efforts to ensure that the current water and sewer infastructure is up to standard, and that I won't be forced to subsidize all those years of descretionary neglect.
We have the government we deserve, as ratepayers neglect to investigate what their government is up to. People, they are up to no good!
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Ramara's 2008 Council Meeting Schedule
ALL MEETINGS ARE 7 P.M. UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED
Jan 07 Council - Council Chambers Brechin
Jan 14 Planning Committee - Udney
Jan 21 General Committee - Council Chambers, Brechin
Jan 28 Council - Council Chambers, Brechin
Added Meetings relating to the 2008 Budgets
WED. Jan 30 General expenditure Budget 9:00 a.m.
THURS. Jan. 31 Designated Ratepayers Budget 9:00 a.m.
Unfortunately you and I don't have a say in the budgeting process. The Dec. 10th meeting council proposed enacting even more restrictions on public participation at committee meetings.
You won't have an opportunity see how big your tax increase will be before council approve it.
I guess it doesn't matter since your elected council just doesn't want you to have any say at all. Just have to bend over and suck it up!
To bad we don't live in Brock Township. Brock embraces their ratepayers and has taken steps to see they have ample opportunity to comment on what services they want and how much they are willing to pay for them.
What does Ramara do? No workshops for ratepayers! No prior disclosure of their intentions, until the last minute! Hold their budget debate during the day, when they know prying eyes won't be a problem.
How I had hopes this new look council would reform the ways of the old days. Promised to during the campaign! No, one of the first things they do in office, PAY RAISES ACROSS THE BOARD!
And you wonder why people don't get involved. Why bother!
Jan 07 Council - Council Chambers Brechin
Jan 14 Planning Committee - Udney
Jan 21 General Committee - Council Chambers, Brechin
Jan 28 Council - Council Chambers, Brechin
Added Meetings relating to the 2008 Budgets
WED. Jan 30 General expenditure Budget 9:00 a.m.
THURS. Jan. 31 Designated Ratepayers Budget 9:00 a.m.
Unfortunately you and I don't have a say in the budgeting process. The Dec. 10th meeting council proposed enacting even more restrictions on public participation at committee meetings.
You won't have an opportunity see how big your tax increase will be before council approve it.
I guess it doesn't matter since your elected council just doesn't want you to have any say at all. Just have to bend over and suck it up!
To bad we don't live in Brock Township. Brock embraces their ratepayers and has taken steps to see they have ample opportunity to comment on what services they want and how much they are willing to pay for them.
What does Ramara do? No workshops for ratepayers! No prior disclosure of their intentions, until the last minute! Hold their budget debate during the day, when they know prying eyes won't be a problem.
How I had hopes this new look council would reform the ways of the old days. Promised to during the campaign! No, one of the first things they do in office, PAY RAISES ACROSS THE BOARD!
And you wonder why people don't get involved. Why bother!
A letter to Clr. Bill Kahler
December 12, 2007
Mr. Bill Kahler
Councillor for Ward 5
Township of Ramara
This letter is in response to comments you made at the meeting of December 10th.
You correctly stated that that is the role of council to make policy and not to enforce it. You incorrectly stated that the board of directors need not venture to the shop floor. Today’s leading edge organizations are implementing policies that make each member in that organization responsible for quality by satisfying the needs of its customers.
Your recent attitude, to me and the members in the public gallery leads me to believe that you and your fellow councillors have lost sight of the big picture. Your electors are your customers and that we are greatly dissatisfied by the services we are being provided by our local government.
As I see it Councillor Neher’s motion is an attempt to develop policies to enhance the corporate culture of the organization. She seeks to create an environment where the participation of all stakeholders is sought and appreciated. Council should establish, review, amend or repeal policies that the Clerk is mandated to enforce and report performance back to council. This can’t happen if council doesn't do its’ part! In the year you have been on council, what policies have you implemented to change Ramara’s culture? If Monday’s meeting is any evidence, we have gone backwards with this new council over councils past!
Monday night’s shameful meltdown by some members of council is the result of failing to implement meaningful change to the processes of government and reform its culture. As a result of council’s inaction, township staff founds itself sucked into the vacuum, and starts dictating policy to council. As the Deputy Mayor stated, “municipal staff works for us!” Like a child looking for attention, municipal staff is looking for guidance for council, this corporation’s Board of Directors.
Take for example the Roads debate meltdown. Instead of staff prepare there suggested road priorities, this council should have established a policy (for example) that states, “it shall be the policy of this township to rehabilitate X% of paved township roadways; or it shall be the goal of this township to pave X% of unpaved township roadways; or this township’s roads capital budget shall be constrained by limiting budget increases by X% over the previous year’s spending. Then staff can put together proposals that factor in the goals of council and satisfies the needs of electors. That’s it simple. But council is not doing its part!
I direct you to the following link about what Brock Tsp has done to acknowledge the role stakeholders have in governance there.
http://www.mykawartha.com/article/22183
When I heard you campaign in the fall of 2006, these kinds of reforms were what I thought the new blood on council would implement. To my disappointment you have done nothing to bring about these reforms.
Finally what will you and council do to rein back control from municipal staff?
Parliament has the Speech from the Throne. US Congress has the state of the Union address to outline the goals and objectives for the coming year. The time has come for Ramara Council adopt something similar. Tell the electors what council plans to do, and what it will take to achieve them.
In the Mr. Armstrong’s recent article he incorrectly put the blame on Mayor Duffy for the problems plaguing this council. Failure has to be placed on the shoulders of all 7 members of council and your failure to enact policies or provide the leadership sought by township staff.
I give the 2007 Council a D for their performance and F for effort. What do you plan to do to improve your performance? Status Quo just won’t cut it!
Mr. Bill Kahler
Councillor for Ward 5
Township of Ramara
This letter is in response to comments you made at the meeting of December 10th.
You correctly stated that that is the role of council to make policy and not to enforce it. You incorrectly stated that the board of directors need not venture to the shop floor. Today’s leading edge organizations are implementing policies that make each member in that organization responsible for quality by satisfying the needs of its customers.
Your recent attitude, to me and the members in the public gallery leads me to believe that you and your fellow councillors have lost sight of the big picture. Your electors are your customers and that we are greatly dissatisfied by the services we are being provided by our local government.
As I see it Councillor Neher’s motion is an attempt to develop policies to enhance the corporate culture of the organization. She seeks to create an environment where the participation of all stakeholders is sought and appreciated. Council should establish, review, amend or repeal policies that the Clerk is mandated to enforce and report performance back to council. This can’t happen if council doesn't do its’ part! In the year you have been on council, what policies have you implemented to change Ramara’s culture? If Monday’s meeting is any evidence, we have gone backwards with this new council over councils past!
Monday night’s shameful meltdown by some members of council is the result of failing to implement meaningful change to the processes of government and reform its culture. As a result of council’s inaction, township staff founds itself sucked into the vacuum, and starts dictating policy to council. As the Deputy Mayor stated, “municipal staff works for us!” Like a child looking for attention, municipal staff is looking for guidance for council, this corporation’s Board of Directors.
Take for example the Roads debate meltdown. Instead of staff prepare there suggested road priorities, this council should have established a policy (for example) that states, “it shall be the policy of this township to rehabilitate X% of paved township roadways; or it shall be the goal of this township to pave X% of unpaved township roadways; or this township’s roads capital budget shall be constrained by limiting budget increases by X% over the previous year’s spending. Then staff can put together proposals that factor in the goals of council and satisfies the needs of electors. That’s it simple. But council is not doing its part!
I direct you to the following link about what Brock Tsp has done to acknowledge the role stakeholders have in governance there.
http://www.mykawartha.com/article/22183
When I heard you campaign in the fall of 2006, these kinds of reforms were what I thought the new blood on council would implement. To my disappointment you have done nothing to bring about these reforms.
Finally what will you and council do to rein back control from municipal staff?
Parliament has the Speech from the Throne. US Congress has the state of the Union address to outline the goals and objectives for the coming year. The time has come for Ramara Council adopt something similar. Tell the electors what council plans to do, and what it will take to achieve them.
In the Mr. Armstrong’s recent article he incorrectly put the blame on Mayor Duffy for the problems plaguing this council. Failure has to be placed on the shoulders of all 7 members of council and your failure to enact policies or provide the leadership sought by township staff.
I give the 2007 Council a D for their performance and F for effort. What do you plan to do to improve your performance? Status Quo just won’t cut it!
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Ramara Township has 2 Too Many Councillors
Way does Ramara need a Mayor or a Deputy Mayor? Orillia doesn't have a Deputy Mayor! Our Mayor doesn't have the authority or job description like the Mayor of Barrie! The weight of the Mayor's one vote on council is no greater than any other councillors. So why should ratepayers taxes support these 2 positions that serve no discernible function, aside from ceremorial role the Mayor has from time to time to host some civic function?
I support the elimination of the Deputy Mayor position altogether. I would keep our 5 ward system, and their direct election by voters. I would then allow body of 5 select amongst them 1 to become the new Mayor.
That person would hold that position of 1 year, at which time council would choose a new Mayor. The incumbent would be allowed stand again.
The Mayor would represent the township at County Council. The township's 2nd representative would come from 1 of the remaining 4 members of council. That seat could be served on a rotating basis.
Under this proposed reform ratepayers would not see any reduction on council perform. It may possibly improve from the elimination of 2 voices of debate. There would be that savings for ratepayers by eliminating 2 positions and their expenses.
I support the elimination of the Deputy Mayor position altogether. I would keep our 5 ward system, and their direct election by voters. I would then allow body of 5 select amongst them 1 to become the new Mayor.
That person would hold that position of 1 year, at which time council would choose a new Mayor. The incumbent would be allowed stand again.
The Mayor would represent the township at County Council. The township's 2nd representative would come from 1 of the remaining 4 members of council. That seat could be served on a rotating basis.
Under this proposed reform ratepayers would not see any reduction on council perform. It may possibly improve from the elimination of 2 voices of debate. There would be that savings for ratepayers by eliminating 2 positions and their expenses.
Ramara Can use Tax $$$ to Finance Special Projects
At the Dec. 10th. Committee the township disclosed that it reserves the right to use general revenues (ie our taxes) as a short term source of financing, when required.
Take for example the sewerage to Brechin and the Lagoon City Sewage Treatment Plant expansions. The township will use a mortgage to finance the net cost (total cost less subsidies from the township). This is no different that you or I when we purchase a home. Not too many have enough cash, so we borrow the difference. We save for a down payment. So does Ramara Township by over taxing us, and keeping any excess they don't spend in reserve funds. Ramara uses these reserves for their down payment, borrowing the rest.
What happens when you don't have enough $$ for your mortgage payment? We may have overdraft account that charges interest, or you borrow from family and friends. This is the difference between you and me, and Ramara Township.
Ramara proposed that users and development will fund their mortgage payments, but there are no quarantines that the pace of development will be sufficient. If Ramara doesn't have enough for a mortgage payment, it will dip into tax $$$ to make up the shortfall. Ratepayer taxes will provide "overdraft protection" for the township. If only we had the same access to interest free short term financing!
Taking tax $$$ for mortgage payments may result in not having money to fix roads, when they need to be fixed. It may mean that funding for cultural activities are delayed and programs cancelled.
At the same meeting it was disclosed by township officials that the municipal water and wastewater rates are not sufficient and from time to time they may be a need for a little ratepayer taxes financing, until the township receives quarterly payments from users. Why doesn't the township adopt a system of monthly payments?
I would like to have the township adopt a policy that clearly establishes and controls how and when general taxes can be used for internal short term financing. Such a policy would guide future decisions, and would reduce the potential for abuse. Such a policy would take away Comrade Ricky's ability to something because it is not specifically stated that he can't do it.
Unfortunately Ramara's de facto leader, Comrade Ricky would not support any measure that would restrict his ability to do as he wishes, and council has a demonstrated history of not wanting to challenge any position that Comrade Ricky does not support.
Ramara's elected council needs to reassert it's supremacy over Comrade Ricky by enacting policies that regulate, monitor and control the actions of local government, so that provide the services that satisfy the needs of stakeholders, in Ramara.
Recent criticisms of this council as dysfunctional are the result of not establishing good policies to guide governance in Ramara. Comrade Ricky has used resulting vacuum to act however he feels. Council should take this freedom away from township staff by clearly defining what options they have, and those options they don't have.
A good place to start is defining acceptable uses for ratepayer taxes. In doing so municipal staff can create budgets that don't consider general taxes as an infinite resource!
Take for example the sewerage to Brechin and the Lagoon City Sewage Treatment Plant expansions. The township will use a mortgage to finance the net cost (total cost less subsidies from the township). This is no different that you or I when we purchase a home. Not too many have enough cash, so we borrow the difference. We save for a down payment. So does Ramara Township by over taxing us, and keeping any excess they don't spend in reserve funds. Ramara uses these reserves for their down payment, borrowing the rest.
What happens when you don't have enough $$ for your mortgage payment? We may have overdraft account that charges interest, or you borrow from family and friends. This is the difference between you and me, and Ramara Township.
Ramara proposed that users and development will fund their mortgage payments, but there are no quarantines that the pace of development will be sufficient. If Ramara doesn't have enough for a mortgage payment, it will dip into tax $$$ to make up the shortfall. Ratepayer taxes will provide "overdraft protection" for the township. If only we had the same access to interest free short term financing!
Taking tax $$$ for mortgage payments may result in not having money to fix roads, when they need to be fixed. It may mean that funding for cultural activities are delayed and programs cancelled.
At the same meeting it was disclosed by township officials that the municipal water and wastewater rates are not sufficient and from time to time they may be a need for a little ratepayer taxes financing, until the township receives quarterly payments from users. Why doesn't the township adopt a system of monthly payments?
I would like to have the township adopt a policy that clearly establishes and controls how and when general taxes can be used for internal short term financing. Such a policy would guide future decisions, and would reduce the potential for abuse. Such a policy would take away Comrade Ricky's ability to something because it is not specifically stated that he can't do it.
Unfortunately Ramara's de facto leader, Comrade Ricky would not support any measure that would restrict his ability to do as he wishes, and council has a demonstrated history of not wanting to challenge any position that Comrade Ricky does not support.
Ramara's elected council needs to reassert it's supremacy over Comrade Ricky by enacting policies that regulate, monitor and control the actions of local government, so that provide the services that satisfy the needs of stakeholders, in Ramara.
Recent criticisms of this council as dysfunctional are the result of not establishing good policies to guide governance in Ramara. Comrade Ricky has used resulting vacuum to act however he feels. Council should take this freedom away from township staff by clearly defining what options they have, and those options they don't have.
A good place to start is defining acceptable uses for ratepayer taxes. In doing so municipal staff can create budgets that don't consider general taxes as an infinite resource!
Deputy Basil (Not) Acting Mayoral!
Baz we know you want to be Mayor, but you'll have to wait until 2010 for the voters of Ramara to decide your worthiness, for that role. But don't hold your breath. Your antics at the Dec. 10th. meeting proved your just not up to the task!
Last night, for the 3rd time Deputy Basil (Da BAZ) auditioned to be Mayor when he chaired the committee meeting, that was debating his proposed changes to the township's Roads Capital Budget. For the 3rd. time he was unable to prevent a meeting from falling into chaos and quickly spiraled out of control. Da BAZ was unable or unwilling to take charge. His voice raised 3 octives, and words came out of his month so fast, as the pressure was clearly to him. Finally like a spoiled child who wasn't allowed to have his way Da BAZ pulled a "suck" picked up his bat and ball and ran home. There are not traits for someone I would want for my Mayor!
Anyone who thinks he would make a credible leader for the township, need think again and do their homework. If Da BAZ couldn't handle last night's affair, he sure as hell won't be able to take charge of a real emergency, if a real one were to occur in the township.
The meeting opened with comments my Mayor Duffy regarding an article by a concerned ratepayer, like myself who attends most council meetings. The author put much of the blame for council's dysfunctionality on Mayor Duffy. From his opening statement I could see the Mayor was hurt by the article. Unfortunately the author couldn't have been more wrong. Last night he was at the meeting and witnessed, like myself how poorly Da BAZ handled events during his moment in the spotlight. There is a relationship between the article's author and Da BAZ as they tend have discussions during the intermission break. I do not support the author's claims that Mayor Duffy is soley to blame for his perceived ineffectiveness, of Ramara Council.
If you want to find blame for the dysfunction, look to Comrade Ricky. His influence over council is the result of this council's inability or unwillingness to challenge Comrade Ricky authority. Da BAZ stated last night, "Mr. (Comrade Ricky) Bates works for us. Council does not work for him!" It couldn't be further from the truth, and demonstrates the huge credibility gap between what council says and what council does!
Comrade Ricky's influence was all over the proposed Road's Capital Budget. Comrade Ricky is not a member of council, but he found a stooge in Da BAZ, who was willing to be his voice! Shouldn't Da BAZ be the voice of his electors on council?
Last night everyone in attendence would have seen Da BAZ talking and Comrade Ricky's lips moving. Da BAZ may as well just take a seat on Comrade Ricky's if he desires to become his "MINI-ME"!
Together Ricky and Da BAZ are attempting a coup of this council. Clrs. White and O'Donnell saw it! Mayor Duffy knows it! Who else is going to step up and provide the final vote to prevent it? It won't be either Clrs. Neher or Appleby, as they are weak and ineffective, vulnerable to the charms of Comrade Ricky. The leaves Clr. Kahler. Was he offended enough by that antics of Da BAZ? Is he smart enough to see the scheming of Comrade Ricky? The fate of the township is in your hands!
Stakeholders in Ramara should not blame Mayor Duffy for council's dysfunctionality. He is being subverted by the actions of Comrade Ricky and his puppet, Deputy Basil.
Last night, for the 3rd time Deputy Basil (Da BAZ) auditioned to be Mayor when he chaired the committee meeting, that was debating his proposed changes to the township's Roads Capital Budget. For the 3rd. time he was unable to prevent a meeting from falling into chaos and quickly spiraled out of control. Da BAZ was unable or unwilling to take charge. His voice raised 3 octives, and words came out of his month so fast, as the pressure was clearly to him. Finally like a spoiled child who wasn't allowed to have his way Da BAZ pulled a "suck" picked up his bat and ball and ran home. There are not traits for someone I would want for my Mayor!
Anyone who thinks he would make a credible leader for the township, need think again and do their homework. If Da BAZ couldn't handle last night's affair, he sure as hell won't be able to take charge of a real emergency, if a real one were to occur in the township.
The meeting opened with comments my Mayor Duffy regarding an article by a concerned ratepayer, like myself who attends most council meetings. The author put much of the blame for council's dysfunctionality on Mayor Duffy. From his opening statement I could see the Mayor was hurt by the article. Unfortunately the author couldn't have been more wrong. Last night he was at the meeting and witnessed, like myself how poorly Da BAZ handled events during his moment in the spotlight. There is a relationship between the article's author and Da BAZ as they tend have discussions during the intermission break. I do not support the author's claims that Mayor Duffy is soley to blame for his perceived ineffectiveness, of Ramara Council.
If you want to find blame for the dysfunction, look to Comrade Ricky. His influence over council is the result of this council's inability or unwillingness to challenge Comrade Ricky authority. Da BAZ stated last night, "Mr. (Comrade Ricky) Bates works for us. Council does not work for him!" It couldn't be further from the truth, and demonstrates the huge credibility gap between what council says and what council does!
Comrade Ricky's influence was all over the proposed Road's Capital Budget. Comrade Ricky is not a member of council, but he found a stooge in Da BAZ, who was willing to be his voice! Shouldn't Da BAZ be the voice of his electors on council?
Last night everyone in attendence would have seen Da BAZ talking and Comrade Ricky's lips moving. Da BAZ may as well just take a seat on Comrade Ricky's if he desires to become his "MINI-ME"!
Together Ricky and Da BAZ are attempting a coup of this council. Clrs. White and O'Donnell saw it! Mayor Duffy knows it! Who else is going to step up and provide the final vote to prevent it? It won't be either Clrs. Neher or Appleby, as they are weak and ineffective, vulnerable to the charms of Comrade Ricky. The leaves Clr. Kahler. Was he offended enough by that antics of Da BAZ? Is he smart enough to see the scheming of Comrade Ricky? The fate of the township is in your hands!
Stakeholders in Ramara should not blame Mayor Duffy for council's dysfunctionality. He is being subverted by the actions of Comrade Ricky and his puppet, Deputy Basil.
Monday, December 10, 2007
Road Lottery to be decided at Dec. 10th Committee Meeting
If you go to Ramara's website and download the agenda for tonight's meeting you'll find very little in substance. Yes you'll find where and how much (the Road's Boss) think's it will cost, but you won't find out what the township actually proposes to build! Shame Ramara Township!!
Hopefully someone on council will challenge to Road Boss's proposal. Hopefully Clr. Neher, the Roads Committee Chair, will end her silence (I haven't heard a peep from her, in a long time)!
If you hate the road in front of your house, you better get out to tonight's meeting, in Joyland Beach and have your representative justify his/her stance!
Hopefully someone on council will challenge to Road Boss's proposal. Hopefully Clr. Neher, the Roads Committee Chair, will end her silence (I haven't heard a peep from her, in a long time)!
If you hate the road in front of your house, you better get out to tonight's meeting, in Joyland Beach and have your representative justify his/her stance!
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Ramara's Official Plan... How Much Does it Cost to Change it?
I was hoping to find this out on Monday night, when Ramara's Council Planning committee met in Udney. Disclosing it was not on the agenda, either was "question period" for ratepayers, so I did not have the opportunity to ask them.
So you own farmland along Hwy. 12 between Atherley and Uptergrove, or along County Road 44, and you want to build a hotel, can you? You can if the township's Offical Plan (OP) says its ok. If it doesn't then you have to change the OP, and have upper level governments ratify these changes. Simple Right? Not really. It takes time and lots of $$$. This is the process Ramara is going through right now.
These changes will result in these valuable greenfield properties, to become very, very valuable. So you would think that these properties that will benefit would foot the bill for these costs. I'm not sure, so I have asked the township to clarify these points for me, since I have not been able to find any definative policy statement, from Ramara Township, that clearly defines this point.
Provincial legislation establishes the right of local governments to recapture costs to plan and make ready land for development. These same laws also give local governments the discretion to chose how much the want to recapture. Since the majority of planning costs are funded by ratepayers taxes, any amount a local government chooses not to recapture, amounts to taxpayer subsidy of the project.
For example Ramara spent approx $500,000 to design and plan the sewerage expansions in Lagoon City, before construction began this summer. Costs that are eligible to reclaim. I am currently waiting for Comrade Ricky to advise me how much of this expense will be recaptured.
(Once I know, I'll let you know).
Like the project to amend the OP, the Brechin sewer project commenced
without detailing the terms of reference, and it's policy regarding what "infastructure costs" the township will be recovering. In Comrade Ricky's report tabled April 16th, 2007, he noted his desire to recapture the $500,000 planning costs. In the "Brechin Sewerage" Development Charge background study, authored by CC Tatham, it does not clearly define all $500,000 was to be recaptured.
What has the township spent on Amendments #10 and #11, of its' current official plan? Not sure. Various budgets don't clearly state an amount, and I have not seen a report from Comrade Ricky about:
So you own farmland along Hwy. 12 between Atherley and Uptergrove, or along County Road 44, and you want to build a hotel, can you? You can if the township's Offical Plan (OP) says its ok. If it doesn't then you have to change the OP, and have upper level governments ratify these changes. Simple Right? Not really. It takes time and lots of $$$. This is the process Ramara is going through right now.
These changes will result in these valuable greenfield properties, to become very, very valuable. So you would think that these properties that will benefit would foot the bill for these costs. I'm not sure, so I have asked the township to clarify these points for me, since I have not been able to find any definative policy statement, from Ramara Township, that clearly defines this point.
Provincial legislation establishes the right of local governments to recapture costs to plan and make ready land for development. These same laws also give local governments the discretion to chose how much the want to recapture. Since the majority of planning costs are funded by ratepayers taxes, any amount a local government chooses not to recapture, amounts to taxpayer subsidy of the project.
For example Ramara spent approx $500,000 to design and plan the sewerage expansions in Lagoon City, before construction began this summer. Costs that are eligible to reclaim. I am currently waiting for Comrade Ricky to advise me how much of this expense will be recaptured.
(Once I know, I'll let you know).
Like the project to amend the OP, the Brechin sewer project commenced
without detailing the terms of reference, and it's policy regarding what "infastructure costs" the township will be recovering. In Comrade Ricky's report tabled April 16th, 2007, he noted his desire to recapture the $500,000 planning costs. In the "Brechin Sewerage" Development Charge background study, authored by CC Tatham, it does not clearly define all $500,000 was to be recaptured.
What has the township spent on Amendments #10 and #11, of its' current official plan? Not sure. Various budgets don't clearly state an amount, and I have not seen a report from Comrade Ricky about:
- Costs to date
- Anticipated costs to completion
I have made requests to council, and again when I know, you'll be advised.
If you feel you need to know right now, I suggest you contact Comrade Ricky, or your council member.
Brechin Parkland Sale!
At this Monday’s Planning meeting, council yet again submitted (without a fight) to a request of Comrade Ricky to rezone a park on O’Neill Street, in Brechin, as residential. At the meeting councillors failed to ask any relevant questions quickly to rubber stamped Comrade Ricky request, along with appropriating the funds, (ie ratepayer taxes) to cover these expenses.
Prior to this meeting I sent Comrade Ricky an email of my concerns, and a request for him to discuss them, in public, at the meeting. He chose not to, so the next day I sent this request to the attention of all members of council, in the hopes they will take up the fight, on my behalf!
In my email to Comrade Bates I wanted him explain why he didn’t support having the potential buyers of the property bear the rezoning costs, rather than ratepayers?
I wanted to know what the township proposed to do with the proceeds from this land sale, and if any documented policy regulated what these funds could be used for?
I wonder if the township contacted advised the township’s Youth committee, since the property in question is a park and most likely used by the township’s youth.
I was glad to see Ramara council affirming it had no desire, and no place in developing the property. Unfortunately this proposal nothing more then Comrade Ricky attempt to covering up the township’s poor fiscal management record (ie year after year tax increases for ratepayers) by using the potential windfall from this land sale to hide its’ looming deficit.
Why is Ramara council such a willing participant in Comrade Ricky's plots. Why do they just sit there and allows these events to happen? Are they only thinking about $$ and not factoring the consequences for their actions?
What are we going to do to balance the books when there is no land left to sell? Ops forgot.... they'll just raise our taxes, yet again!
Prior to this meeting I sent Comrade Ricky an email of my concerns, and a request for him to discuss them, in public, at the meeting. He chose not to, so the next day I sent this request to the attention of all members of council, in the hopes they will take up the fight, on my behalf!
In my email to Comrade Bates I wanted him explain why he didn’t support having the potential buyers of the property bear the rezoning costs, rather than ratepayers?
I wanted to know what the township proposed to do with the proceeds from this land sale, and if any documented policy regulated what these funds could be used for?
I wonder if the township contacted advised the township’s Youth committee, since the property in question is a park and most likely used by the township’s youth.
I was glad to see Ramara council affirming it had no desire, and no place in developing the property. Unfortunately this proposal nothing more then Comrade Ricky attempt to covering up the township’s poor fiscal management record (ie year after year tax increases for ratepayers) by using the potential windfall from this land sale to hide its’ looming deficit.
Why is Ramara council such a willing participant in Comrade Ricky's plots. Why do they just sit there and allows these events to happen? Are they only thinking about $$ and not factoring the consequences for their actions?
What are we going to do to balance the books when there is no land left to sell? Ops forgot.... they'll just raise our taxes, yet again!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
