This is a brief report to HIRA members on the Township of Frontenac Islands Council meeting which took place on April 9th 2018 at the Township offices on Howe Island. One of our directors attended the meeting. Only matters with particular reference to Howe Island or of general relevance are highlighted here.
- Severances—In the past, one could apply for a land severance for a new non-farm single dwelling if you could show that the land was poor agricultural land and the effect of the severance would not interfere with or restrict the viability of adjoining farm activities or other adjacent land uses. Only three severances are allowed from any lot as it existed on January 1, 1985.
In April 2017, Council asked staff to research the history of severances granted on both Wolfe and Howe to determine if the date January 1, 1985 might be changed as (a) it was thought that keeping that date might be restricting development on the two Islands and (b) members of the public were voicing concerns that they were unable to sever lots for family.
Staff has reported to Council and recommended that FOR WOLFE ISLAND ONLY the date January 1,1985 remain unchanged but that four instead of three severances be allowed from any lot as it existed on January 1,1985.
For Howe Island, the staff report to Council said that comments received at the public meeting held on Howe last June 2017 and written submissions received indicated that residents of Howe did not support additional severances. Staff told Council at the meeting held April 9, 2018, that before additional development on Howe, the transportation concerns need to be addressed first.
NOTE: Public meetings will be held to review the severance matter on Monday May 7, 2018 at 6:30 pm on Howe island and on Tuesday May 8, 2018 at 6:30 pm on Wolfe Island.
- Budget—The Township budget for 2018 was passed by Council. The increase for the year is 2.47% over last year. The average residential assessment rose from $531,368 in 2017 to $537,584 in 2018.
- Foot Ferry—The foot ferry is still scheduled to be out of service starting April 16, 2018 for deck refurbishment and a few other repairs. It is expected to be out for three months (until mid July).
- Pitch-In— It was noted that the Pitch-in date sponsored jointly by HIRA and the Township, for clean-up of Howe Island roadsides will be held on Saturday April 21, 2018. Clean-up bags are available at the Township Offices. Volunteers are needed. HIRA director Bill Worona is the contact for volunteers to sign-up (woronab@hotmail.com).