This is a brief report to HIRA members and others on the Township of Frontenac Islands Council Meeting held at the Township office on Wolfe Island on November 12, 2019. Two of our HIRA Board members attended the meeting. This Briefing Note also includes some information provided to HIRA from Mayor Doyle and Councilor Macdougall in response to questions raised by HIRA prior to the meeting. Only matters of particular reference to Howe Island are highlighted here.
There were only two items on the agenda that involved Howe Island.
Chip Trucks—The first item was the consideration of a bylaw to license and regulate chip trucks, mobile canteens or refreshment vehicles. This item was brought forward by staff to address a concern that may arise on Wolfe Island when the Marysville terminal is under construction and for an extended period of time the Wolfe Island terminal will utilize the winter dock at Dawson Point. Following discussion, it was noted that the by-law would only apply to Wolfe Island and it was deferred pending further review.
North Shore Road—The second item respected the flooding on Howe Island’s North Shore Road. Staff advised Council that the necessary drainage work was more involved than originally contemplated due primarily to the necessity to remove bedrock in order to effect proper drainage and create appropriate outlets. As a result this work is being put over to next year. At Council’s request, staff will look at a temporary solution in order to mitigate further flooding.
Flowing from correspondence from HIRA the Mayor reported to HIRA on a number of items.
Cameras— Council will proceed with costing and future budgeting for a camera on the mainland at the County ferry terminal. Consideration for a mainland camera at the Township ferry will be deferred at this time.
County Ferry Drive System—The Mayor was asked if there was any update on the drive system. He advised that MTO has assured Council that MTO has it in their work plan to investigate the drive system.
Proposed Mainland Terminal Works—Councilor McDougall advised through an email that she understands that shoreline erosion protection work will not impact ferry operations and the work will start shortly.
High Water Issues—HIRA has expressed to Council that it hopes steps are being taken by Council working with other stakeholders such as the MTO and the County to ensure that both ferries can operate at full capacity if the water is as high or higher next year. The Mayor has advised that letters have been sent to those involved in the high water issue and that he has asked the C.A.O./Township Clerk to set up a meeting with Mark Garretson, MPP, Kingston and the Islands.
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