The Town of The Blue Mountains has received a Complete Application for Zoning By-law Amendment in accordance with the Planning Act and the Town of The Blue Mountains Official Plan. 

Public Meeting: August 26, 2019 at 5:00pm, Town Hall, Council Chambers 

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING 

The Town of The Blue Mountains would like to advise the public that the Town email system, including contact forms on the website are currently experiencing technical issues. At this time, staff and members of Council are not able to receive or send emails. Staff are working diligently to restore the service as soon as possible.

The Town has confirmed that the email issue is not the result of a cyber attack, intrusion, virus, malware, or anything malicious in nature. The issue is related to a software error with the email server.

How to Contact the Town

To contact the Town during regular business hours, please call Town Hall at: 519-599-3131.

To ensure continued communication, the following generic email addresses can be used to contact Town staff:

Please check the Town website for updates: www.thebluemountains.ca

A notice will be posted to the Town website when service is restored. Thank you for your patience and understanding

Emergency / After Hour Contact Information

In the event of a life-threating emergency, dial 9-1-1.

For bylaw enforcement, water, wastewater and roads related after-hour emergencies, please call:

• Bylaw Enforcement: 519-599-3131 ext. 249
• Roads Emergency: 226-665-1640
• Water Emergency: 226-665-0707
• Wastewater Emergency: 705-446-5041

For more information, please contact:

Tim Hendry
Communications & Economic Development Coordinator
519-599-3131 ext. 282

Craigleith Area Between September 9 and September 30

Please be advised that ash tree removal will be taking place along the Georgian Trail, from Grey Road 21 to Old Lakeshore Road, starting September 9 through to September 30, 2019.  The trail will remain open while this work is being performed.  

The Town of The Blue Mountains has received a Complete Application for Zoning By-law Amendment in accordance with the Planning Act and the Town of The Blue Mountains Official Plan.

Public Meeting: August 26, 2019 at 5:00pm, Town Hall, Council Chambers 

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING 

Children under the age of 5 should always be wearing a lifejacket or PFD when in or near the water.

If your child is not a strong swimmer, or is under the age of 5, they should always be wearing a lifejacket or PFD when in or near the water. Make sure the lifejacket/PFD is for the appropriate weight, and always do up all buckles and straps. If your child is not a strong swimmer, or is under the age of 5, they should always be wearing a lifejacket or PFD when in or near the water. Make sure the lifejacket/PFD is for the appropriate weight, and always do up all buckles and straps.

For more information, please visit Drowning Prevntion: Lifejackets & Personal Floatation Devices (PDFs)

On behalf of the Council Compensation Review Committee, The Town of The Blue Mountains would like to provide an update regarding the ongoing work of the committee.

The Council Compensation Review Committee is an advisory committee of Council for the purposes of reviewing relevant municipal models and recommending a compensation package for elected officials that is fair and reasonable to both Council and the citizens of the Town of The Blue Mountains. The committee will present a report to Council outlining a proposed elected official compensation package by Fall 2019.

Prior to preparing the report outlining recommendations and initiating the Public Meeting process, the committee has extended an open invitation for members of the public to share feedback and input at the August 14, 2019 Council Compensation Review Committee meeting which will be held at 10:00am, Town Hall, Council Chambers. Please note: this opportunity for input is not part of the Statutory Public Meeting process but may assist in informing the initial report to Council.

If you are interested in submitting comments but are unable to attend the August 14, 2019 meeting, you may submit a letter of correspondence to the committee for review. To be reviewed at the August 14, 2019 meeting correspondence must be received by the Town by August 6, 2019.  In addition, there will be further opportunities to provide comment during the Statutory Public Meeting process. Details regarding the Statutory Public Meeting process will be posted to the Town website when available.

The draft minutes of the June 26^th, 2019 Council Compensation Review Committee meeting will be considered at the July 24, 2019 meeting. These minutes will provide an overview of key work the committee has undertaken in its compensation review. Once approved, members of the public may wish to comment on the following key items:

• Themes arising from interviews with existing Members of Council
• Comparator municipalities and comparator factors
• Compensation Philosophy Development

To view the approved minutes following the July 24, 2019 meeting, or for additional information regarding the Council Compensation Review Committee, visit the Committee webpage.

DATE: July 22, 2019 at 7:00am until July 23, 2019 at 4:30pm

Louisa Street West will be closed between Victoria Street South and Beaver Street South on the above date and times for improvements to the road base.

For more information contact:
Jim McCannell, Manager of Roads and Drainage
Infrastructure and Public Works Department
32 Mill Street, Box 310
Thornbury, ON N0H 2P0
519-599-3131 ext 271
managerroadsdrainage@thebluemountains.ca

Date: July 23, 2019 at 7:00am to July 26, 2019 at 12:00pm

Location:  33rd Sideroad, 300m West of Duncan St. West to the Town of Blue Mountains-Meaford Townline to make improvements to sections road base, ditching and sub-drain installation

For more information contact:
Jim McCannell, Manager of Roads and Drainage
Infrastructure and Public Works Department
32 Mill Street, Box 310
Thornbury, ON N0H 2P0
519-599-3131 ext 271

The Town of The Blue Mountains is seeking applications, in the form of letters of interest, from members of the public for appointment to the following Town Committees and Boards.

• Grants and Donations Committee:
5 member Committee, 2 Members of Council have been appointed.
3 additional public members being sought

Meetings may be held monthly in the Council Chambers at the Town Hall, 32 Mill Street Thornbury. All meetings are open to the public.

Applicants are encouraged to include background information and any special qualifications or interest related to a particular Committee or Board. Additional information regarding the Grants and Donations Committee can be found in the Terms of Reference documents available on the Town’s website https://www.thebluemountains.ca/grants-and-donations-committee.cfm

All Applications should be submitted no later than Friday, August  9, 2019 1:00 pm to:

Town of The Blue Mountains
Attention: Town Clerk
32 Mill Street
Thornbury, Ontario N0H 2P0
Email the Town Clerk

Personal information provided by the applicant is collected under the authority of the Municipal Act, 2001 and will be used for the purpose of candidate selection. The Town of The Blue Mountains is an equal opportunity organization. Accommodation will be provided in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code.

The Council of The Corporation of The Town of The Blue Mountains passed Borrowing By-law No. 2019-31 on the 15th day of July 2019, pursuant to the Tile Drainage Act, RSO 1990.

TAKE NOTICE that the Council of The Corporation of the Town of The Blue Mountains passed Borrowing By-law No. 2019-31 on the 15^th day of July 2019, pursuant to the Tile Drainage Act, RSO 1990.

AND TAKE NOTICE that any person or organization may appeal by making an application or action to quash the By-law in a court of competent jurisdiction within four weeks after the By-law is passed, being no later than Monday, August 12^th 2019.

The Borrowing By-law that was passed is a By-law to raise money to aid in the construction of drainage works under the Tile Drainage Act, RSO 1990. The Tile Drainage Act provides for ten-year term loans from the Province to individuals though their local municipalities.  Through this program, property owners can access loan funding through their local municipality for the installation of tile drainage systems on their agricultural land.

At the time of the passing of the By-law, the maximum available to each individual farmer in one year is $50,000 and this limit is set by the Province of Ontario. The aforementioned By-law sets a limit of $500,000 total for any Tile Drainage Loans through the Corporation of the Town of The Blue Mountains. This By-law updates the current Borrowing By-law, 1989-81 of the former Township of Collingwood, however, no changes have been made to the borrowing limit.

Copies of the complete Borrowing By-law are available for examination during regular business hours (weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) in the offices of the municipality located at 32 Mill Street Thornbury, ON and on the website at www.thebluemountains.ca. For further information, please contact the Clerk’s Office.

Notice of the Passing of a Borrowing By-law - Tile Drainage

Monday, August 26, 2019

Public Meeting at 5:00 p.m.

Town Hall, Council Chambers, 32 Mill Street, Thornbury, ON N0H 2P0

Notice is hereby given that Council of The Corporation of the Town of The Blue Mountains, at its regularly scheduled Committee of the Whole Meeting on Monday, August 26, 2019, will be holding a Public Meeting to receive comments on the proposed changes to the Procedural By-law. The Procedural By-law sets out the rules and regulations for the proceedings of Council, Committees and Local Boards.

Staff Report “FAF.19.120 Draft Procedural By-law for Council Consideration before Proceeding to Public Meeting”provides additional information regarding the proposed changes and proposed timelines. Copy of the Staff Report is also available through the Town’s website, www.thebluemountains.ca

Public Meeting Notice

• Public Meeting Notice (85 KB)

“Going swimming? If you can't see your feet waist deep, stay out! Cloudy water can mean that bacterial levels may be higher.

For more information about recreational water safety in Grey and Bruce counties, please visit the Grey Bruce Health Unit's Recreational Water webpage.

The REVISED AGENDA for the Special Meeting of Council on July 16, 2019 is available.

Please note the start time is 7:00 p.m.

The revision includes the addition of an agenda item at D. and the addition of a By-law at E.1 as related to an amendment to The Blue Mountains Zoning By-law.

For details, please visit the Council Calendar.

The REVISED AGENDA for The Blue Mountains, Council Meeting on July 15, 2019 is available.

Please note the start time is 5:30 p.m.

The revised Agenda includes the addition of documentation at D.1.Deputation: Shawn McKinlay, President Royal Canadian Legion Branch 281 Beavery Valley Re: Cenotaph Construction Update - 229 Bruce Street Park Development and the addition of a Closed Session agenda item at K.

For additional details, visit the Council Calendar.

Public Meeting to consider a Blue Mountains Attainable Housing Corporation DRAFT Purchasing Policy

The Blue Mountains Attainable Housing Corporation is considering the adoption of a Purchasing Policy for use by the Corporation which will outline the guiding principles of public procurement and the approach that the BMAHC will take when procuring goods and services “purchasing”. The detailed purchasing procedures, once approved, shall be consulted prior to proceeding with any procurement.

Date of Public Meeting: August 1, 2019 at 4:00 p.m. during the regular Blue Mountains Attainable Housing Corporation Board of Director Meeting.

At the regularly scheduled May 21, 2019 Attainable Housing Corporation meeting, the Board of Directors for the Attainable Housing Corporation directed that the draft Attainable Housing Corporation Purchasing Policy be posted to the Attainable Housing Corporation website to receive comments from members of the public and Town staff utilizing the Town’s Public Meeting process.
The draft Purchasing Policy for The Blue Mountains Attainable Housing Corporation can be accessed through the Attainable Housing Corporation website.

Regular meeting dates for The Blue Mountains Attainable Housing Corporation are posted to the Attainable Housing Corporation website, along with the links to meeting materials, as applicable.

Attainable Housing Corporation website: http://thebluemountainshousing.ca/.

Public Meeting Notice

The Agenda is available for the Special Meeting of Council on Tuesday, July 16, 2019.

Please note the start time is 7:00 p.m.

For additional informaton, please visit the Council Calendar.

The Agenda is available for the Town of The Blue Mountains Council Meeting on Monday, July 15, 2019

Please note the start time is 5:30 p.m.

For additional details visit the Council Calendar.

A REVISED AGENDA is available for the Special Meeting of Council on Friday, July 12, 2019.

Please note the start time has been revised to 8:00 a.m.

For additional details, visit the Council Calendar.

The Agenda is available for the Special Committee of the Whole Meeting on Monday, July 15, 2019.

Please note the start time is 11:00 a.m.

For additonal information, please visit the Council Calendar.

Gently used life jackets can be donated at the Thornbury Harbour Office from July 15 to August 15, 2019

The Canadian Power Squadron has collaborated with the Canadian Safe Boating Council and Canadian Rangers Foundation (Canada’s paramilitary northern native patrol program) to collect gently used life jackets that will be sent to the indigenous communities in Northern Canada.

Life jackets and education are needed in First Nation communities in Northern Canada where the supply is limited and cost of buying a life jacket is prohibitive. Life jackets, when they are available in isolated Northern communities, can cost in excess of $100 each, making them beyond the financial resources of most families. The drowning death rate in the northern regions continues to be significantly higher than anywhere else in Canada, at nearly seven times the national average.

Once collected, life jackets will be distributed with the expertise of volunteer Canadian Rangers. During distribution, educational programs covering life jackets, cold water, reboarding and the need for a trip plan will be taught by Rangers in remote and isolated communities.

If you would like to donate a new or gently used life jacket, you can do so at the Thornbury Harbour Office (41 Bruce Street North, Thornbury) between July 15 and August 15.  Thornbury Harbour summer hours are 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. seven days a week. 

The Agenda is available for the Special Meeting of Council on Friday, July 12, 2019.

Please note the start time is 9:00 a.m.

For additional details, visit the Council Calendar.

The Agenda for the July 8, 2019 Special Committee of the Whole has been revised to include:

• Item B.10.1 David Finbow, Land Development, Planning & Building Code Consulting Re: Hidden Lake Road Class Environmental Assessment - Consideration of Scope Change
• Item B.13.1 Review of Bed and Breakfast Policy Framework, PDS.19.86
• Item B.13.2 Review of Planning & Development Engineering Services Fees, PDS.19.88

For additional meeting details, visit the Council Calendar.

We are distributing this construction notice to keep you informed that works will be occurring in your area.

Please be advised that SMRS Construction will be completing work along Peel Street North between Timber Lane and Bay Street. Residents may experience short water service disruptions.

Scope of Work:

• Disconnect five (5) existing water services from 150mm watermain and connect into 400mm watermain on Peel Street North. Four (4) properties are located on Peel Street and one (1) on Bay Street West;

• Fire Hydrant Removal and Replacement, and

• Disconnect 150mm from existing tee on Peel St N.

Date: From July 8, 2019 until July 22, 2019

Peel Street North between Timber Lane and Bay St will have reduced lanes during construction.

For more information contact:

Town Contact:

Senior Water Operator

Rob Gilchrist

705-441-2029

Contractor Contact:

SMRS Construction

Ivan Schwass

519-369-7367

The Town is seeking input early on in the budget process from residents, businesses and stakeholders with respect to key priorities for the 2020 Corporate Budget. Your input is important!

The survey below is part of that public consultation process and is an important part of the Town’s Budget process. Your input is important so all survey responses will be reviewed by Town staff and a representative of Town Council.

The deadline to complete the survey is August 15th, 2019. Paper copies will be available at Town Hall. 

To access the survey, please visit: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/TBMBudget

The Town of The Blue Mountains would like to provide an update regarding the status of Deputy Mayor Odette Bartnicki.

The Deputy Mayor met with Mayor Soever and the Chief Administrative Officer Shawn Everitt today and advised that she intends to continue as Deputy Mayor.

For more information, please contact:

The Agenda for the July 3, 2019 Committee of the Whole meeting has been revised to include the following:

• Item B.3.14 Tile Drainage Loan, FAF.19.136

For additional meeting details, visit the Council Calendar.

This Public Notice is being considered at the Committee of Adjustment Meeting on July 17, 2019 

NOTICE - A17-2018 

The Agricultural Advisory Committee meeting originally scheduled for Thursday, July 18, 2019 at 6:00 p.m. has been rescheduled to Tuesday, July 16, 2019 at 4:00 p.m.

Meeting location: Town Hall, Council Chambers

For additional event details, visit the Council Calendar.

This Public Notice is being considered at the Committee of Adjustment meeting on July 17, 2019 

NOTICE - A11-2019

The Agenda for The Blue Mountains, Special Committee of the Whole Meeting on July 8, 2019 is avaiilable.

Please note the meeting start time is 1:00 p.m.

For additional details, please visit the Council Calendar.

The Agenda for The Blue Mountains, Committee of the Whole Meeting on July 3, 2019 is available.

Please note the meeting start time is 10:00 a.m.

For additional details, visit the Council Calendar.

This Public Notice is being considered at the Committee of Adjustment Meeting on July 17, 2019

NOTICE - B06-2019 (Kearns)

This Public Notice is being considered at the Committee of Adjustment Meeting on July 17, 2019

NOTICE -  B07-2019 & B08-2019

A Revised Agenda for the June 24, 2019 Council Meeting is available.

Please note the start time is 7:00 p.m.

The revisions include the addition of The Blue Mountains Agricultural Advisory Committee meeting minutes of May 16, 2019 at item F.13 and the addition of a Closed Session agenda item at J. ii).

For additional information, visit the Council Calendar.

South Georgian Bay receives $65,000 Digital Main Street Grant to help main street businesses use digital tools to grow.

South Georgian Bay today announced that it has received a grant from the Ontario government to fund a Digital Service Squad to help main street small businesses improve their online capabilities.

As part of Digital Main Street, South Georgian Bay Small Business Enterprise Centre (SBEC) received a $65,000 grant from the Ontario government to establish a Digital Service Squad to help small businesses in the downtown areas of Collingwood, Meaford, Stayner, The Blue Mountains and Wasaga Beach, to enhance their use of digital tools and techniques to better promote and sell online. The Squad will consist of a trained specialist who will visit and assist BIA-area downtown businesses at no cost to help them set up a Google Business Profile, conduct a digital-readiness assessment and apply for a $2,500 Digital Transformation Grant.  The Squad will start visiting businesses before the end of May 2019

A joint program funded by Government of Ontario and delivered by the Ontario BIA Association, Digital Main Street helps improve how small businesses use digital tools and techniques to become more successful. Today’s digital economy is vital to small businesses, and DMS will help them adopt new digital technologies from e-commerce and social media to back-office systems such as payroll and inventory.

“Our government is committed to helping small businesses improve their competitiveness, create jobs and attract investment,” said Ernie Hardeman, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. “That’s why I’m so pleased that the community of South Georgian Bay will benefit from the expertise of a Digital Service Squad to help small businesses embrace digital technology.  Our investment in the Digital Main Street program will help to ensure that Ontario is open for business and open for jobs. “

“It’s extremely important for our government to invest in enhancing the digital capabilities of small businesses in South Georgian Bay,” said Bill Walker MPP for Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound. “We’re providing them with the tools and training to take advantage of new digital opportunities that will help these businesses to expand.”

Digital Main Street offers two types of grants:

1. Digital Transformation Grant: There are 2,000 grants of $2,500 each available to qualifying small “main street” businesses across Ontario to help them adopt new digital technologies.
    
2. Digital Service Squad Grant: There are 300 grants of $10,000 each available to qualifying municipal or business groups across Ontario to develop and implement local squads of digital vendors and experts to directly help small businesses.

“South Georgian Bay SBEC clearly understands the power of Digital Main Street to help keep their multiple downtown cores vibrant and strong,” said Kay Matthews, Executive Director of the Ontario BIA Association.  “Our small main street businesses are a critical contributor to Ontario’s economic, social and cultural health, and it’s vital that we work together to ensure their success. Digital Main Street will help the main street small businesses of South Georgian Bay compete in an increasingly digital world.” 

Businesses within the participating municipalities will be introduced to the Digital Service Squad over the coming weeks. The Digital Service Squad will be administered by the South Georgian Bay Small Business Enterprise Centre and will be supported by the regions BIA’s, Chambers, Business Associations and Economic Development offices. 

For further information contact the office of the South Georgian Bay SBEC at sbec@collingwood.ca

Members of the public are invited to join Town Council, staff and distinguished guests for the presentation of the ‘Best of The Best’ award for the Best Tasting Drinking Water in North America! Water samples and delicious cake will be provided. 

Event Information: 

• Friday, June 28th, 2019
• 3:00pm - 4:00pm at Town Hall

For more information, please contact: 

Tim Hendry
Communications & Economic Development Coordinator
(519) 599-3131 ext. 282

A REVISED AGENDA for The Blue Mountains, Council Meeting on June 24, 2019 is available.

Please note the meeting start time is 7:00 p.m.

The revisions include the Revised Agenda, a Deputation at Agenda Item B.3 and a Closed Session at Agenda Item J.

For additional information, visit the Council Calendar.

Thornbury-Clarksburg Cenotaph Relocation

Please be advised that the property at 229 Bruce Street South in Thornbury is currently being developed and the existing Thornbury-Clarksburg Cenotaph at Jack Acres Park will be relocated to this site.

The property development will include walkways, flag poles, cenotaph and vegetation plantings. 

Work is expected to be completed later this summer or early fall and in advance of the November 11 Remembrance Day Services.

At the Council meeting on June 3^rd, 2019 a Notice of Motion was put forward by Deputy Mayor Odette Bartnicki and approved unanimously by Council. Since the meeting, there has been a lot of discussion and inquiries received by members of Council and staff regarding clarification and further information related to the motion regarding single-use plastics.

The motion unanimously approved by Council at the June 3^rd, 2019 meeting consisted of the following three parts:

1. Direct staff to promote a voluntary ban on the use of single-use plastic bags, plastic straws and stir sticks effective July 1st, 2019; including the promotion of the voluntary ban through a coordinated media campaign that states and includes the following text:

“Council supports the protection of the environment of the Town of The Blue Mountains through the reduction and future elimination of single-use plastic bags, straws, stir sticks and water bottles, and encourages all businesses, community members and visitors to avoid the use of these products whenever possible.  Council recognizes and appreciates the efforts of all stakeholders towards measures that support the sustainability of the natural environment in the Town of The Blue Mountains.”

2. The referral to the Sustainability Committee for consideration and recommendation to Council by August 26th, 2019 regarding four specific actions (as outlined in question #3 below) that the Town could take by December 2019 regarding single-use plastics in Town-owned facilities, which would assist with the reduction of single-use plastics within the community.

3. The direction to staff to work with the Sustainability Committee and all stakeholders through a public consultation process to develop a plan for inclusion in the 2020 budget to reduce and/or eliminate single-use plastics by July 2020.

Frequently Asked Questions & Answers

To help provide clarification, the following FAQ’s and answers have been provided:

The Notice of Motion was brought forward by Deputy Mayor Odette Bartnicki to address the issue of single-use plastics which is of particular significance in the Town of The Blue Mountains as a major tourism destination.

Other municipalities and cities across Canada, including tourist destinations such as Bayfield, Ontario, Vancouver, BC and world-class resorts such as Whistler Blackcomb have already started to consider this issue.

Council has referred any further consideration of single-use plastics to the Sustainability Committee.

A voluntary ban is a request from the Town to all stakeholders including the business community, residents and visitors to consider opportunities for the reduction of single-use plastic wherever possible. This resolution does not mean that the Town is prescriptively banning the use of single-use plastics. In addition, this statement does not require local businesses to eliminate single-use plastics from their operations, however it encourages local businesses to continue their commitment to sustainable environmental initiatives.

The Sustainability Committee is an advisory committee of Council with a mandate to support sustainability and further sustainable initiatives on a community and regional level.

The motion passed by Council gave direction to the Sustainability Committee regarding two specific items.

1) Report back by August 26th, 2019 to Council with recommendations on the following items:

• Phasing out the sale of bottled water and the use of single-use plastic cups, straws and stir sticks at all Town-owned facilities and events by December 2019 in order to model good environmental practices;

• Developing a three year plan to increase the number of water bottle re-filling stations on Town-owned properties, to be included in the 2020, 2021 and 2022 budget cycles;

• Developing recognition/reward signage (i.e. “We’ve gone green for a Blue future” or similar) for business operators who model good environmental practices by not supplying single-use shopping bags, water bottles, straws and stir sticks;

• Investigating the development and costs of a Town of Blue Mountains reusable bag-for-life or fabric bag options with appropriate logo for possible purchase by retailers at cost, and to be used for various promotional events; by the Town;

2) That staff work with the Sustainability Committee and all stakeholders, including the business community, residents and visitors through a public consultation process to develop a plan for inclusion in the 2020 Budget to reduce and/or eliminate single use plastics effective July 1st, 2020.

“That Council directs staff to work with the Sustainability Committee and all stakeholders through a public consultation process, to develop a plan for inclusion in the 2020 Budget to reduce and/or eliminate single-use plastics effective July 1st, 2020”

This means that the Sustainability Committee and staff are directed to engage with stakeholders including the business community, residents and visitors to receive feedback and develop a plan that will be included within the 2020 budget with the target of reducing and/or eliminate the use of single-use plastics, with initial implementation of the plan effective July 1^st, 2020.

The target date of July 1^st, 2020 does not indicate that all efforts to reduce and/or eliminate single-use plastics will be in effect at that time. The plan will be implemented as of that date, but individual actions will be phased in as determined through stakeholder consultation.

Since the June 3^rd, 2019 Council meeting, there have been announcements by both the Provincial and Federal Governments regarding a reduction and/or ban of single-use plastics.

Through the government consultation process, Council will work to ensure that The Town of the Blue Mountains policies can be coordinated with the plans put forward by other levels of government, and that maximum use can be made of funding opportunities which may arise.

The Town will engage in a public media program that encourages all residents and taxpayers to reduce their use of single-use plastics wherever they can. The Town encourages all residents and taxpayers to participate in the consultation and planning to be completed.

For more information, please contact:

Alar Soever
Mayor
(519) 599-3131 ext. 400

Tim Hendry
Communications & Economic Development Coordinator
(519) 599-3131 ext. 282

The Plan of Subdivision Application is proposing to create a total of 34 single detached dwellings. A new private/condominium road is also proposed, which would be constructed shown on the proposed plan as ‘Lane A’. An open space block has been proposed along the entire south end of the property. 

Public Meeting Date: July 8, 2019
Public Meeting Time:  5:00pm 
Town Hall, Council Chambers 

More information can be found on the PUBLIC NOTICE 

The Town of The Blue Mountains would like to provide a public update regarding the status of Deputy Mayor Odette Bartnicki.

At the Council meeting on Tuesday, June 11th, 2019 Deputy Mayor Bartnicki expressed that she would submit notice of her resignation on Friday of this week.  She has subsequently indicated to the Mayor that she is further considering her decision.

The Mayor and Deputy Mayor met this afternoon and had positive discussions, and we look forward to providing further information in the near future.

For more information, please contact:

The Town of The Blue Mountains Water and Waste Water Division is excited to announce that the Town has won first place in the Best of the Best North American Drinking Water Challenge at the American Water Works Association annual conference.

After winning the delegate's choice for the best tasting water of Ontario in early May, the Town of The Blue Mountains went on to be crowned the best tasting water by expert panelists in the Best of the Best North American Challenge. There was a field of 28 competitors, all who had qualified to enter the Best of the Best contest by winning their local events. Two tense rounds of taste-offs to break a tie led to the Town's ultimate victory. The presentation of the award will occur at Town Hall at a time to be determined.

Reg Russwurm, Director of Infrastructure and Public Works, said, "I'm thrilled to have been able to accept the trophy on behalf of our Water Operations Staff. They are the ones who work day in, day out to ensure that our water is safe and now judged to be the best tasting water in North America.”

“This is a great accomplishment for the Town of The Blue Mountains” explained Mayor Soever. “The Town of The Blue Mountains is pleased to represent all Canadian municipalities on an international stage. We are proud of the hard work and excellence that goes into keeping our drinking water safe and of the highest quality”.

To learn more about Water Services and drinking water quality, please visit:

https://www.thebluemountains.ca/water-services.cfm?is=2

For more information, please contact:

Tim Hendry
Communications & Economic Development Coordinator
(519) 599-3131 ext. 282

The applicant would like to establish a Bed & Breakfast use in the existing dwelling municipally known as 160 Grand Cypress.

Public Meeting Date: July 3, 2019 at 5:00pm
Location: Town Hall, Council Chambers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

Four Positions Available on the Planning Team for the 2019 Run for The Cure in The Blue Mountains

The Canadian Cancer Society is looking to recruit volunteers to join the planning team for the 2019 Run For The Cure in the Blue Mountains that is set to take place on Sunday, October 6, 2019.

Positions are currently available for: Community Outreach, Local Sponsorship, Committee Liasion and Run Day Experience Lead.

For more information, please review the attached position details or contact:

Amanda Delgado

705-726-8032

amanda.delgado@ontario.cancer.ca

• Cancer Society Volunteer Positions (742 KB)

Town of The Blue Mountains Planning Staff are undertaking a Zoning By-law review to consider new Short Term Accommodation (STA) provisions for the Blue Mountains Comprehensive Zoning By-law 2018-65. The Draft Zoning Bylaw Amendment intends to consolidate the previous Zoning By-laws 2009-03, 2009-04 and 2009-05 that regulates STA uses as well as providing some additional clarification and direction with updated definitions, general provisions and parking requirements.

Public Meeting Date: July 3, 2019 at 5:00pm 
Location: Town Hall, Council Chambers 

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE 

The Council of The Town of The Blue Mountains is considering amendments to the current Municipal Tree Preservation By-law 2010-68. The intent of the changes is to extend the scope of the existing By-law to include trees on larger privately owned parcels of land located outside of residential plans of subdivision which do not currently meet the threshold for protection under the current Town or County By-law requirements. 

Date: July 3, 2019 at 5:00pm 
Town Hall, Council Chambers 

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING

Town of The Blue Mountains Planning Staff are undertaking a series of housekeeping amendments to the Comprehensive Zoning By-law 2018-65. By-law 2018-65 replaced the former Town of Thornbury By-law 10-77 and former Township of Collingwood By-law 83-40. 

Public Meeting: July 3, 2019 at 5:00pm
Location: Town Hall Council Chambers 

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING 

The Town of The Blue Mountains is pleased to announce that the current Interim CAO Shawn Everitt has accepted the permanent role of Chief Administrative Officer.

This appointment will officially take effect on June 10, 2019, following the passage of the appointment by-law. The CAO provides strategic leadership for the municipality and acts as the direct liaison between Council and staff.

Mr. Everitt has held the role of Interim Chief Administrative Officer for the Town since December of 2017. Previous to this role, Shawn was a member of the Town’s Senior Management Team holding the role of Director of Community Services since 2005. Shawn began his career with the Town in September of 1993 as the Manager of the Community Centre.

Mr. Everitt states: “I feel privileged to have the opportunity to lead the talented and customer focused group of staff at the Town and live in what I believe to be an extraordinary community. I look forward to working in collaboration with community members, council, staff, and our neighbouring municipalities to continue to provide efficient and valued services and ensure environmental and economic sustainability as well as smart growth in the Town.

Mayor Soever states, “In our first six months in office Council and I have developed a strong working relationship with Shawn and have come to recognize and value Shawn’s experience and knowledge of the Town of The Blue Mountains.  Shawn has a broad vision and understanding of what is important to our citizens in the many unique parts of our “community of communities”.

Shawn’s leadership and the stability he has provided to staff over the past eighteen months in his role as interim CAO make him a natural choice to lead our team going forward. 

For more information, please contact:

The Agenda for The Blue Mountains Committee of the Whole Meeting on June 10, 2019 is available.

Please note the start time is 1:30 p.m.

For additional information, please visit the Council Calendar.

Grey County's 2019 Rural Guide is now available. The guide includes information regarding the following:

• Frequently used OMAFRA Contacts
• Frequently used Government Contacts
• Rural Organizations in Grey County
• Women's Institutes
• Agricultural Societies
• Conservation Authorities
• Horticultural Societies
• Farmers' Markets
• Municipal Contacts
• Elected Officials
• Media Contacts

Grey County 2019 Rural Guide

This Public Meeting is being considered at the Committee of Adjustment on June 19, 2019. 

NOTICE - B04-2019 Russell & Shaban

This Public Notice is being considered at the Committee of Adjustment Meeting on June 19, 2019

NOTICE - A09-2019 (Barber / Gardulski) 

This Public Notice is being considered at the Committee of Ajustment Meeting on June 19, 2019. 

NOTICE - B05-2019 (Foster/Hart)

This public notice is being considered at the Committee of Adjustment Meeting on June 19, 2019

NOTICE - A08-2019 (Brown) 

The Revised Agenda for The Blue Mountains Council Meeting on June 3, 2019 is available.

Please note the start time is 7:00 p.m.

The revisions included:

• Revised Agenda
• C.2  Deputation: Stella Juhas, Resident Re: Support of Motion by Deputy Mayor 1.2.1 Interim Voluntery Ban on Single-Use Plastics
• Correspondence item E.17: Kristen Case, Resident Re: Single use Plastics Ban
• Correspondence item E.18: Nicole Case, Resident re Single Use Plastics Ban
• Correspondence item E.19: Norine Baron, Grey Highlands Resident re: Single Use Plastics Ban
• Correspondence item E.20: Cathy Innes Re: Motion for Voluntary Ban of Single-Use Plastic
• Correspondence item E.21: Jacqui Morrison Re: 1.2.1 Citizen support for Notice of Motion to support a voluntary ban on single-use plastics

For additional inforamtion, please see the Council Calendar.

The Town of The Blue Mountains has issued an FAQ document related to Wild Chervil. The information was issued as a follow up to the Noxious Weed Control notice that was posted to the Town website on May 24th, 2019. 

To read the frequently asked questions, please visit: https://www.thebluemountains.ca/roads-drainage.cfm

Stage 1 - Water Use Restrictions are implemented from June 1 to September 1, 2019.

• Residents may water between the hours of 7:00am and 9:00am and 7:00pm and 9:00pm.
• Properties with odd-numbered addresses can water on odd-numbered calendar days.
• Properties with even-numbered addresses can water on even-numbered calendar days. 

For more information please contact:

Water and Wastewater Inquiries

The Agenda for the Special Meeting of Council Meeting on June 3, 2019 is available.

Please note the start time is 2:00 p.m.

For additional details, visit the Council Calendar

In partnership with Grey County Tourism, local tourism providers, and neighbouring municipalities the Town of The Blue Mountains is proud to be celebrating Canadian Tourism Week. The purpose of the celebration is to highlight the importance of tourism throughout all Grey County communities and across Canada through showcasing world-class tourism attractions, beautiful natural landscapes, and local experiences.

Coordinated by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC), Tourism Week is a national grassroots initiative that brings attention to the economic, social and cultural opportunities available to Canada, Grey County, and the Town of The Blue Mountains through travel and tourism.

“Tourism is an important part of our community and local economy,” explained Mayor Alar Soever. “Tourism Week is a great opportunity to reflect and celebrate upon the significant role that tourism plays in contributing to our community”.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to participate and share their own tourism experiences, stories and pictures on social media by using the hashtag #TourismMattersInGrey. Photos and posts can include any tourism-related images such as your favourite tourism friendly businesses, attractions, events, natural sites and hidden gems throughout the community.

“On behalf of Council, I would like to extend my gratitude and appreciation to all tourism providers and tourism-related businesses within the community. I would also like to thank residents and business owners for fostering a welcoming and positive community environment for visitors to experience and enjoy” explained Mayor Soever.

To learn more about Tourism across Grey County, please visit: https://www.visitgrey.ca/

For more information, please contact:

Tim Hendry
Communications & Economic Development Coordinator
(519) 599-3131 ext. 282

The Town of The Blue Mountains is seeking input from residents, businesses and stakeholders with respect to the hours of operation and diversion programs for the Town Landfill / Solid Waste Disposal Site.

The purpose of the survey is to gain feedback related to the level of service at the Town Landfill and the scope of recycling diversion programs that the Town offers.

An online survey will be available until June 19th, 2019 at 12pm (noon). All survey responses will be anonymous. To access the survey, please visit: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/TBMLandfill

Hardcopies of the survey will also be made available at the Landfill, Town Hall, L.E. Shore Memorial Library, Craigleith Heritage Depot and the Beaver Valley Community Centre.

For more information, please contact:

Supervisor, Solid Waste & Special Projects
(519) 599-3131 ext. 238

Tim Hendry
Communications & Economic Development Coordinator
(519) 599-3131 ext. 282

Commencing May 22, 2019, weather permitting, and ending July 7, 2019, the County of Grey and the Town of The Blue Mountains intend to control noxious weeds along the county and municipal roadsides under their respective jurisdiction as listed below. We will be using Truvist Herbicide, which contains the active ingredients, Chlorsulfuron and Aminocyclopyrachlor. PCP Registration Number 30920 in combination with Hasten NT Spray Adjuvant, which contains active ingredients Methyl and ethyl oleate (esterified vegetable oil). PCP Registration Number 28277 under the Pest Control Products Act.

County of Grey Roads:
All Rural Roads within the Jurisdiction of Grey County
Contact information:  Graham Wilson, 1-800-567-4739

Town of The Blue Mountains roads:
All Rural Roads within the Jurisdiction of the Town of Blue Mountains
Contact information: Jim McCannell, 1-888-258-6867

For general and product information, call collect:
Steve Ford, Green Stream, 1-905-510-1229

The pesticide application will be conducted by a licensed technician and only applied to grass roadside areas that appear to be visually unkept and where there is evidence of noxious weeds. The primary purpose of spraying pesticide is to proactively control the spread of Wild Chervil.

What is Wild Chervil?

Wild chervil is a herbaceous biennial or short-lived perennial from the parsley family, introduced to North America from Europe. It was first brought to North America as part of European wildflower seed mix used for plantings along hedgerows and meadows.

This species is short-lived, forming a rosette of only leaves in the first year, then flowering and producing seeds in the second year. As a heavy seed producer, it is easily spread to new locations. Wild chervil has few checks on its population in North America and can quickly take over an area, displacing native species and forming dense stands that are difficult to control.

Source: Ontario’s Invading Species Awareness Program

Opt-out of Pesticide Spraying

To opt-out of pesticide spraying on the roadside portion adjacent to your property, residents are encouraged to employ stewardship and regularly maintain the grass and ditch areas to assist in the control of Wild Chervil. The pesticide is only applied to grass roadside areas that appear to be visually unkept and where there is evidence of noxious weeds. If the area is regularly cut and maintained, the Wild Chervil will not have the opportunity to grow and seed.

For more information, please contact:

Infrastructure and Public Works Department
(519) 599-3131 ext. 276

Tim Hendry
Communications & Economic Development Coordinator
(519) 599-3131 ext. 282

The farm cidery business known as “Spy Cider House and Distillery” has proposed the temporary use of a trailer for an office and two storage containers on the subject lands
Property Location: 808108 24th Sideroad (Clarksburg)
Public Meeting: June 10, 2019 at 5:00 PM, Town Hall, Council Chambers, 32 Mill Street, Thornbury, ON

Public Meeting Notice 

Curbside Garbage and Recyclables Collection will occur as usual on Victoria Day Monday, May 20, 2019

Curbside Garbage and Recyclables Collection will occur as usual on Victoria Day Monday, May 20, 2019. 

For more information visit our website: www.thebluemountains.ca/solid-waste.cfm  or download the App: TBM Waste Resource available for Apple & Android. 

Available at the Town Office for $275 per pass!

If you hate carrying cash but you still want to golf at the Tomahawk Golf Course, consider purchasing a season pass for $275 (including HST). 

Passes are available at the Town Office (32 Mill Street in Thornbury) or from staff at the Tomahawk Golf Course.  Each membership includes a blue Tomahawk golf towel that takes the place of a membership card. 

Owners of independently owned and operated tourism businesses in BruceGreySimcoe can now access support through the unique T3 Accelerator program.

Click to watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r-dXaS2bmbA

Owners of established tourism businesses now have support available through a unique program in Bruce, Grey and Simcoe counties.  

T³ Accelerator, launched by Regional Tourism Organization 7 and the Centre for Business and Economic Development in Collingwood, invites independently owned and operated tourism businesses to apply for coaching assistance to help their business develop and succeed. Once accepted into T³ Accelerator, an extensive assessment of business operations and tourism offerings is undertaken by an experienced team of general business and tourism specialists to identify business development strategies for your business. Owners then receive suitable coaching and resources from the T³ Team and partner organizations. 

For the past several months, seven businesses have been participating in the pilot and the feedback has been very positive.  

“Success is what the program is all about and with the coaching we have tapped into resources we didn’t know were available to us” says Peter Doner and Barbara Barta of Oasis by the Bay Vacation Suites. “T³ made us stop and reevaluate our business. I’ve taken a lot away that has shifted our focus to be more targeted,” Barta adds.

The structure of T³ Accelerator was developed after extensive research and consulting local tourism businesses. T³ Accelerator was built upon a similar program run for almost a decade in Northumberland County. Bill Sullivan, RTO7 CEO, says “I am blown away by the level of commitment that the team members have invested into developing this program. This is a unique support program that will have a significant impact on those tourism businesses involved.”

“Small business represents one of the most important facets of our economy and this exciting coaching program is already proving to be a great tool to those involved.” states Gillian Fairley, General Manager of the Centre for Business and Economic Development.

Central to the program are volunteer coaches. Scott Allison, one of the T³ coaches is sharing his professional knowledge and experience gained during his own career in the hotel and travel industries including 10 years on the board of Destination Canada. Like Mr. Allison, many of the T³ coaches have retired to live in our amenity-rich community.

Mr. Allison explains “tourism’s lifeblood is driven by entrepreneurs and their visions.”  He added “helping local business owners succeed is in itself rewarding, and being part of the T³team has given me great satisfaction.”

Program details can be found on the RTO7.ca website.

For more information:
Sue Ainley
Project Coordinator, T³ Accelerator 
sue@ainleygroup.com

The Council of The Corporation of The Town of The Blue Mountains passed Development Charge By-law No. 2019-17 on the 24th day of April 2019.

TAKE NOTICE that the Council of The Corporation of The Town of The Blue Mountains passed Development Charge By-law No. 2019-17 on the 24^th day of April 2019, under Section 2 of the Development Charges Act, 1997.

AND TAKE NOTICE that any person or organization may appeal to the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal under Section 14 of the Act, in respect of the Development Charges By-law, by filing with the Clerk of the Town of The Blue Mountains no later than Monday, June 3^rd, 2019, a notice of appeal setting out the objection to the By-law and the reasons supporting the objection. A processing fee will be payable to The Blue Mountains Clerk’s Office with the appeal application. The appellant is advised to contact the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal to access required forms and applicable Provincial fees.

The charges in the aforementioned By-law will apply to all new residential and non-residential development, subject to certain terms, conditions and limited exemptions as identified therein. Town-wide development charges are levied against new development to pay for the increased capital costs related to the provision of municipal services such as General Government, Public Library, Fire Services, Police Department, Parks and Recreation, Public Works, Parking and By-law, Solid Waste, Town-wide Roads and Related services. A distinct Roads and Related charge has been calculated for the Castle Glen service area, as the needs attributable to development in this area are unique.

Rates imposed for the Service Areas of Craigleith, Castle Glen, Osler, Thornbury East, Thornbury West, Clarksburg, Lora Bay (SA1, SA2 and SA3), Camperdown and Swiss Meadows are related to the provision of Water and Sanitary Sewer services. Schedules 1 to 4 set out the residential and non-residential development charge rates applicable throughout the Town by service area. Map 1 delineates all applicable Service Areas within the Town in which the area-specific charges are applied.

The development charges imposed under the By-law come into effect on April 24^th, 2019. Copies of the complete Development Charge By-law are available for examination during regular business hours (weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) in the offices of the municipality located at 32 Mill Street Thornbury, ON and on the website at www.thebluemountains.ca. For further information, please contact the Clerk’s Office.

CAO Hiring Sub-Committee - April 26, 2019 - 8:00 a.m. Code of Conduct Review Committee - April 26, 2019 - 9:30 a.m.

The Agendas for the April 26, 2019 CAO Hiring Sub-Committee and the Code of Conduct Review Committee are available.

Agenda - CAO Hiring Sub-Committee

Agenda - Code of Conduct Review Committee

For additional details, visit the Council Calendar.

This Public Notice on Minor Variance #A07-2019 (Terra Brook Homes) will be heard by the Committee of Adjustment at an upcoming Committee meeting on May 15, 2019.

Public Notice

Watering Restrictions

Watering Restrictions are implemented annually from June 1 to September 1

Stage 1 Water Use Restriction

• Residents may water between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.
• Properties with odd numbered addresses can water on odd numbered calendar days
• Properties with even numbered addresses can water on even numbered calendar days

For more information visit Water Restrictions 

Contact Us

General Water Inquiries 519-599-3131 x. 284  Water Services 

Landscape Watering Permit - Infrastructure & Public Works Department 519-599-3131 x. 276  Infrastructure and Public Works Department

The agenda for the Town of The Blue Mountains Committee of the Whole Meeting on April 29, 2019 is available.

Please note the start time is 1:00 p.m.

For additional details, visit the Council Calendar.

The revised agenda for the Town of The Blue Mountains Council Meeting on April 24, 2019 is available.

Please note the revision is related to the Agricultural Advisory Committee at B.ii) and G.2.

For additional details, visit the Council Calendar. 

The Agenda is available for the Grey County - The Blue Mountains Task Force Meeting on April 16, 2019.

Please note the start time is 1:30 p.m. and the location is the Bay Room, Grey County Administration Building, Owen Sound.

For additonal details, visit the Council Calendar.