2024 Council Highlights - December 9

Special Council Meeting, Committee of the Whole & Council - December 09, 2024

Special Council Meeting – Public Meeting

Zoning By-law Amendment File Z-4/24

The Township of Ramara held a public meeting regarding application File Z-4/24, which pertains to amending the current zoning for the property located at 131 Courtland Street. The proposed zoning bylaw amendment proposes a minimum rear yard setback of 15 meters for all buildings and structures, while the existing Village Residential zone requires a setback of 7.5 meters. This increase in setback is intended to implement the recommendations from the supporting Environmental Impact Study and facilitate the creation of two new lots by consent. The Council approved forwarding the Zoning Bylaw Amendment to the Council meeting scheduled for December 9, 2024.

Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law Amendment OP-4/24 & Z-5/24

The Township of Ramara held a public meeting to discuss applications OP-4/24 and Z-5/24, which propose amendments to the Official Plan and Zoning By-law for the property located at 3819 McRae Park Road. These amendments aim to allow year-round outdoor storage of 33 recreational vehicles and boats on the site. Additionally, the proposal requests a reduction in the minimum front yard setback requirements specified in Section 18 (2) of the Highway Commercial Zoning By-law for the storage areas.

Front Yard Setback – Change from 10 metres to 5 metres
Exterior Sideyard Setback – Change from 10 metres to 5.4 metres
Rear Yard Setback – Change from 10 metres to 2 metres
Interior Sideyard setback – Change from 5 metres to 2 metres

The Council approved to defer the application back to staff for further processing to allow the owner time to address outstanding comments.

Zoning By-law Amendment File Z-6/24

The Township of Ramara held a public meeting regarding application File Z-6/24, which pertains to amending the current zoning for the property located at 4195 McRae Park Road. The proposed zoning bylaw amendment proposes changing the current zoning of “Rural” on a section of the property to “Shoreline Residential”, an area where three lots are proposed to be created by consent. The application also seeks to amend the current zoning of “Rural” to “Natural Area Protection” based on the recommendations of a supporting Environmental Impact Study. The Council approved to defer the decision regarding application Z-6/24 until such time that outstanding LSRCA technical review comments are received and addressed.

Committee of the Whole – December 9, 2024

Bylaw Enforcement Third Quarter Report (2024)

The Bylaw Enforcement Department submitted its quarterly report detailing activities from July to September 2024. The report indicated that the department responded to 186 complaints, contributing to a total of 468 complaints since January 2024. Additionally, 39 Administrative Monetary Penalties were issued. The rise in complaints was attributed to issues related to Short-Term Rental Accommodations (STRA), long grass, canine control, parking, and other general concerns. As in previous years, four seasonal staff members were hired from early May until after Labour Day to help manage the increased volume of calls during the summer months.

Reminder! Complaints should be submitted directly to the Bylaw Enforcement Department. This can be done online using the 24/7 Report a Concern form, in person during business hours, or by phone at 705-484-5374 during business hours.

Report a Concern

Lagoon City on-street & Municipal Parking Lot Parking Control Options

Staff provided a comprehensive report on summer and winter parking options within the Lagoon City settlement area, covering both on-street and municipal parking. Currently, there are restrictions on on-street parking, which include areas designated for resident parking permits and paid parking on Lake Avenue between Simcoe Road and Ridge Avenue. Additionally, there is a municipal lot on Lake Avenue that allows for parking with a resident parking pass, as well as paid parking through the Honk app; however, this parking lot is closed during the winter months.

To address the parking challenges and concerns in the Lagoon City area, staff suggested alternative parking options for both summer and winter. The Council discussed various parking options, including restricting parking to Township resident pass holders to municipal parking lots and established new parking locations. This would be for seasonal parking from the Thursday before the long weekend in May to the Thursday following the long weekend in September while also considering to make paid parking available in alternative locations, such as the Brechin Ball Park from December 15 to March 15 each year for the winter season. The Council approved to receive the staff report and that the Lake Avenue parking lot be designated as resident parking pass only from the Thursday prior to the long weekend in May through to the Thursday following Labour Day weekend in September. In addition, Council approved to designate Laguna Parkways on the east side from Concession Road 5 road allowance to 145 Laguna Parkways as paid parking and to establish permitted parking at the municipal parking lot at the Brechin Ball park for winter recreation between December 15 to March 15, with clear signage at all parking locations. The Council also directed staff to obtain a legal option for the summer parking restrictions at Lake Avenue.

Other Winter Parking restrictions

The Council approved for staff to prepare a report regarding reinstating parking restrictions within the Val Habour and Glenrest Beach area to help deal with the parking challenges resulting from an increase in traffic during the ice fishing season.

Ramara Tree Planting in conjunction with the LSRCA (Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority)

Staff provided a report outlining a plan to plant native plants in combination of trees, plants, and shrubs to help naturalize areas where trees have been cleared due to disease, rot and or infestation of pests. Staff and the LSRCA have identified the following areas to be good candidates for planting:

2961 Suntrac Drive – Suntrac Boat launch lot
2958 Suntrac Drive
1415/1418 Florida Ave – Beach lot and open lot on Florida Ave
3 Laguna Parkway – Easter entrance to Lagoon City
Lagoon City – North Private beach
5482 Highway 12 – Ramara Centre

The planting would begin in the spring of 2025, and planting would comprise of mostly saplings other than the Ramara Centre location that would plant more established trees and shrubs. The Council approved to authorize the Director of Infrastructure to permit the proposed planting on the municipal properties as shown in the attached planting plans.

Link the visual plans

Hauling Update

The Director of Infrastructure reported that the contractor has hauled 62,000 m³of effluent out of the 120,000 m³required to be hauled. With the impending winter weather and temperatures dropping below freezing, staff are in the process of investigating the current pond levels to ensure that there would be enough space if hauling is stopped. The Township of Ramara is current awaiting comments from the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks regarding the Final Draft Report and staff are hopeful to proceed with construction in the spring of 2025. Update: As of December 7, 2024. 70,963.5 m³ of effluent has been hauled.

Adoption of the Couchiching OPP Detachment Board Terms of Reference

The Community Safety and Policing Act, 2019 (CSPA 2019), which came into effect on April 1, 2024, introduced significant changes to policing management in Ontario, including new governance structures for Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) detachments. One of these is the Orillia OPP Detachment Board, which was renamed the Couchiching OPP Detachment Board on November 7, 2024. This change aims to better represent the region, which includes the City of Orillia and the municipalities of Oro-Medonte, Severn, and Ramara.

The Couchiching OPP Detachment Board has also adopted a Terms of Reference document outlining its mandate, structure, and responsibilities. This document will be sent to the four partner municipalities for review and adoption, formalizing the board's governance framework and clarifying its roles. This initiative marks a key step in aligning local policing services with the framework established by the CSPA 2019. The Council adopted the Couchiching OPP Detachment Board Terms of Reference.

Correspondence from Couchiching OPP Detachment Board regarding top three Strategic Priorities Ramara would like addressed.

The Couchiching OPP Detachment Board, in collaboration with the Detachment Commander, needs to develop a Local Action Plan that reflects the interests of all four jurisdictions involved. To facilitate this, each municipality is required to provide its top three strategic priorities and submit them to the board. The Council has approved that Ramara's priorities will focus on road safety (specifically for motorized vehicles and unlicensed drivers), property crime, and community engagement with residents, including children.

Transfer from reserves

The staff presented a report detailing projects that were not included in the 2024 budget. These projects included the beach revitalization and electrical projects at Lovely Day Park, overseen by the Atherley Community Centre Board, as well as the additional costs associated with the 2024 By-Election. The Council approved the following transfers from reserve funds to cover these unbudgeted 2024 expenditures:

$16,315 to fund the beach revitalization project at Lovely Day Park from the Atherley Community Centre Board reserve.
$3,685 to fund the electrical project at Lovely Day Park from the Atherley Community Centre Board reserve.
$8,053.55 to fund the 2024 By Election from the Election reserve.
$765.00 to fund the permit from the Lake Simcoe Regional Conservation Authority.

Municipal Insurance Pool start-up with Simcoe County Municipalities

About two years ago, the County of Simcoe, the 16 member municipalities, and the City of Orillia decided to establish a Municipal Insurance Pool. A feasibility study, including a detailed actuarial analysis, was conducted to assess the viability of the pool. This analysis examined historical claims data, projections for 2024 exposures, policy information, and recent premium invoices, focusing on three main coverages: liability, property, and automobile.

The primary goal of the pool is to achieve cost savings compared to traditional insurance. The feasibility study estimated potential savings by comparing insurance costs under the current structure with those under the pool. The findings indicated significant savings for all participants, leading to the decision to proceed with implementation.

As part of this process, the actuarial analysis was updated, resulting in a proposed insurance pool structure for each coverage class. A technical working group, consisting of representatives from the municipalities, has been meeting regularly to finalize the pool's components and ensure a successful launch. The Council approved to receive the staff report and request a presentation from Axxima for further information.

Compress Work Week Update December 2024

Since September 2023, staff have participated in the Compressed Work Week Trial, which was extended for another nine months in March 2024. Over the past 15 months, we have received no negative feedback from staff, Council members, or the public. The Manager of Human Resources recently met with staff and Directors to gather input on the policy. Both groups found it effective and appreciated the work-life balance it promotes. Even staff not participating in the program expressed gratitude for the organization's commitment to flexible work options, viewing it as essential for competitiveness. The Council endorsed HR Policy#2.17 Compressed Work week.

A Bylaw to Repeal and Replace Bylaw 2017.18, as amended, for Fees and Charges.

The Township of Ramara’s Fees and Charges is reviewed yearly to review the costs for goods and to re-evaluate service delivery charges. Over the summer and fall months, staff reviewed the current bylaw and proposed updates for charges for services and goods that may have changed, required updating or have not been included in the bylaw.

The staff report outlines all of the fee changes.

View Fees and Charges Schedules A-G 2024 (with edits)

2024 Annual Accessibility Status Report

Under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), every municipality is required to prepare a Multi-Year Accessibility Plan (MYAP), which must be updated every five years. Additionally, annual Accessibility Status Reports are needed in the years between full reviews. The Township of Ramara last reviewed its MYAP in 2021.

The staff report presented to the Council includes the 2024 Annual Accessibility Status Report for their review and adoption. This report outlines the legislative requirements necessary to remain compliant with the AODA. It also noted that the Township had hired an AODA Consultant from Occupational Safety Group Inc. (OSG) to identify recommendations for reducing accessibility barriers in public spaces. The consultant's report identifies several high-priority barriers and includes plans for future improvements in each of the Township’s public areas.

The Council has approved the adoption of the 2024 Annual Accessibility Status Report, and the transfer of funds from the Accessibility Reserve to pay for the estimated accessibility expenditures of $11,750 for 2024. Furthermore, the Council has tasked staff with exploring alternative locations for the Brechin Library and to report back with their findings.

View Media Release regarding an alternative location for the Ramara Library's Brechin Branch

Council Information Package

That Council approved for staff to write a report regarding the Council Information Package.

Council member Jurisdiction

The Council approved for staff to prepare a report regarding the member of Council portfolio jurisdiction and that it be brought forward to the March Committee of the Whole meeting.

Policing Costs

The Council approved for a letter to be sent to the Attorney General expressing concerns with the extreme increase of 2025 OPP servicing costs.

Draft Official Plan Update

The staff provided a report on the update to the Official Plan. Currently, the Official Plan has completed all required steps, including public meetings as required by the Planning Act, and staff reviewed and addressed the comments received during these meetings where possible. The Official Plan document has been updated to comply with the Provincial Planning Statement and in alignment with the latest provincial policies. The next steps for the Official Plan are as follows:

Public Review Period
1. By December 15, the final draft of the Official Plan will be available on the Township’s website at www.ramara.ca/opr.
Council Review and Adoption
1. After the review period, the final draft will go to the Committee of the Whole for consideration and possible adoption. We plan to do this in January 2025.
Implementation
1. Once the Council adopts the Official Plan, staff will submit it to the County of Simcoe for final approval.

Ramara Landscape Quarry

Staff received a letter from 1300488 Ontario Ltd advising that it has submitted an application to the Ministry of Natural Resources to amend the site plan under the Aggregate Resource Act for Ramara Landscape Quarry (1378 Concession Road D-E). The amendment application proposes the following: increasing the tonnage limit from 100,000 tonnes per annum to 500,000 tonnes per annum, permit blasting to occur on site to meet market demands, and permit 180,000 m3 of excess soil to be imported to the site for the construction of on-site berms. The Council approved to receive the information and that communications be forwarded to the applicant and the Ministry of Natural Resources.

McArthur Sideroad Speed and Traffic Report

Staff monitored and reported the speeds and traffic counts on McArthur Sideroad between Fairgrounds Road and Concession Road M/N. The Infrastructure Department set up speed monitoring units in two locations (northbound and southbound). The Average Annual Daily Traffic (AADT) for this section is 200 vehicles per day, classifying it as a Class 4 roadway.

The infrastructure department found the following data:

The first location was active from May 23, 2024, to July 29, 2024, recording northbound traffic heading toward Coopers Falls Road. The radar sign data showed:
- Only 26% of vehicles followed the posted speed limit of 60 km/h.
- The 85th percentile speed was 82 km/h.
- The average speed was 68 km/h.
- The highest recorded speed was 130 km/h.
- A total of 5,669 vehicles passed in 56 days.

The second location was active from July 30, 2024, to September 6, 2024, recording southbound traffic going toward Fairgrounds Road. It was in the same area on McArthur Sideroad. The radar sign data showed:
- Only 26% of vehicles followed the posted speed limit of 60 km/h.
- The 85th percentile speed was 82 km/h.
- The average speed was 68 km/h.
- The highest recorded speed was 126 km/h.
- A total of 3,672 vehicles passed in 38 days.

The Council received the report as information.

Lagoon City Community Mailboxes

The Township has been working with Canada Post to manage the community mailboxes at Lagoon City Park. As the property of Canada Post, they handle maintenance and ensure safe mail pickup and delivery. After the last Council meeting, staff were tasked with following up with Canada Post about their winter plans and any concerns from last winter. The report outlines communications received from Canada Post, including for Canada Post staff to continue to monitor concerns over the 2024-2025 season and for residents to report concerns using their online form found on the Canada Post’s Website. The Council approved for the Township of Ramara to formally issue a complaint to the Canada Post Ombudsman citing non-compliance with the Canadian Postal Service Charter and that the Township submits all documented complaints, correspondence and evidence of unresolved issues to the Ombudsman, and a copy of this resolution be sent to the Member of Parliament for Simcoe North and the Minister of public services and procurement and any relevant municipal association advocating for rural and urban postal service improvements.

Council Meeting - December 9, 2024

Remarks by the Mayor

Mayor Clarke commenced the meeting by apologizing for any unanswered calls and emails, noting that he had been on vacation and subsequently lost access to his emails during this time.

Councillor Tuju provided a report on the various events she attended following the last Council meeting:

On November 8, 2024, she represented the Township at Rama’s Indigenous Veterans’ Day Remembrance Day Event.
She participated in the Ramara Historical Society's and Yesteryears' Fall Pancake Breakfast alongside community members and fellow Council members on November 9.
On November 10, she attended the Township’s Remembrance Day Event in Oro Medonte and on November 11, she attended the City of Barrie's service.
She delivered welcoming remarks at the Ontario Association of Property Standards Officers' training session at the Ramara Centre on November 12.
On November 17, she attended the Tree of Hope lighting ceremony hosted by the Rama Police Service, which aimed to raise awareness regarding the issues of violence and human trafficking affecting Indigenous girls.
She participated in the Canadian Federation of University Women’s National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women event at St. Paul’s Centre on December 7.
Additionally, she attended the Ramara Firefighter Association’s Christmas party on December 8.

The Deputy Mayor reported his active involvement in several community events:

He joined other Council members and community members at the Ramara Historical Society's and Yesteryears' Fall Pancake Breakfast.
He attended the Remembrance Day Service at the Brechin and Mara Legion.
He participated in the 104th Annual Men’s Medicine Dinner held at St. Andrew’s Hall in Orillia.

Councillor Bell reported on her community engagement activities:

She attended the Ramara Historical Society's and Yesteryears' Fall Pancake Breakfast with fellow Council members.
She participated in the Santa Breakfast event hosted by the Brechin Lions at the Brechin Legion, which drew an attendance of 140 to 160 children and raised over $1,400 to support families in need.
She attended the Remembrance Day Ceremony at the Brechin Legion on November 11.
She was present at the annual meeting of Orillia and Area Lake Country Tourism.
Finally, she participated in the Tourism Simcoe County Industry Partner Meeting, where tourism professionals convened to discuss the promising future of tourism in Ramara and the broader Simcoe County region.

CAO Update

The Township is hosting it's Recreation Master Plan Open House on February 5, 2025. More information about the time and location will be communicated in the New Year.
Next Saturday, visit the Ramara Firefighters Association for their annual 'Stamp out Hunger' boot drive at Brechin Foodland on December 14 between 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The money raised will go to the Feeding Families Campaign.
As Canada Post continues to strike, we want to remind residents that all penalties, interest, or fines remain in effect for all tax, utility and other bills. If you are expecting a bill from the Township, have a payment due or you may think you have an outstanding balance, we encourage you to contact staff to confirm your balance, due date and available payment options, including pre-authorized payment plan.
On December 13, the Township Administration Building will be closed from 9 - 10 a.m. for the Township to host a staff recognition breakfast. The Township will reopen on Friday, December 13, at 10 a.m. Please be advised that this has now changed to Monday, December 16.
Lastly, on behalf of the staff at the Township of Ramara, we want to wish everyone a happy and safe holiday season. As well, we want to remind the community that the Township Administration Building and other facilities will be closed from noon on December 24 and will reopen on Thursday, January 2 at 9 a.m.

Presentations, Receiving of Petitions and Deputations

Muley Point Road Petition

Council received a petition regarding changing the speed limit on the road changing it from 80 km/h to 60 km/h. The petition outlines the concerns for safety with the road including the speeding in the school zones, blind spots with the ‘s-bends’, accidents, etc. Staff provided a verbal update to Council members regarding speed and traffic counts on the southbound and northbound on Muley Point Road. Council approved to receive the petition as information.

If you view speeding on a road, please report it online (add it) or by phone 1-888-310-1122.

Consent Agenda

Ramara Building Report Summary

Are you wondering what people are building in Ramara? View the Building permit summary to learn about the permits issued each month and how it compares to other years.

View October report

View November report

County Council Update

The highlights from the November 12 County Council meetings are now available.

View November 12 County Highlights

Announcements and inquiries – Members of Council

The Washago Santa Claus parade is scheduled for Saturday, December 14
The Brechin Legion is organizing a New Years Eve event – so keep your eyes our for more details!

Requests for Reports

Council requested the following reports

Follow-up on Oro-Medonte’s Community Engagement policy and procedure and how it would work for Ramara.
Follow-up report on the Province of Ontario’s announcement regarding incentives for residents in rural areas to connect with Starlink.

Bills and Bylaws

Council passed the following Bylaws:

Reminders

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For More Information

For more details on any of these items, see the full meeting Agenda or view the meeting on the Township of Ramara's YouTube Channel.

The Meeting highlights are prepared to give residents a timely update on decisions of Council. The Council Meeting Minutes are the official record of the meeting.