Responses from Candidates in Minden Hills
1) Transportation:
Communities across Haliburton County recognize the need for and value of public transit.
Without public transportation employers can not find employees, seniors stay at home, youth
can not participate in school activities and we increase our release of greenhouse gases. The
County has contracted for a plan to implement the shared booked ride model proposed by the
Transportation Task Force. For more information go to www.transportationhaliburtoncounty.ca
If you are elected, will you commit to implementing an operating transit system by the
end of your 4-year term?
YES or NO
Comments
Mayor
Brent Devolin
If I am re-elected I will continue to pursue the goal of achieving an integrated, cost-effective transportation system. As a member of the Haliburton County Transportation Task Force and the Poverty Reduction Task Round Table (a City of Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton County initiative), I will continue the efforts that I have participated in for the last 2 ½ years. During this engagement, it has become apparent that the integration of existing public funded transportation services (e.g. HHHS van, Community volunteers, taxis, etc.) with an expanded level of service would help meet public expectations for our region.
Wayne Hancock
Yes - Haliburton County has a large rural population, so transit system must be arrived at through several possibilities. In some areas, a dial a ride system has been adopted to provide access while being subsidized. In addition, I would consider a form of Uber, neighbour to neighbour, and certainly a form of transit for both the handicapped and elderly. The amount of subsidy would be determined by budget each year.
Jarrett Campbell
No reply
Deputy Mayor
Lisa Schell
No reply
Councillor at Large
Ron Nesbitt
No reply
John Teljeur
Having been an active volunteer for Haliburton County Food Banks and other agencies, I have provided my input to the Transportation Task Force. I have seen first hand the challenges people have in not being able to find transportation to seek employment, access services or even buy groceries. While there is no question that a service would be of value to those that struggle with transportation issues, the challenge will be to find a workable and affordable model that will address these issues. With little population density in our towns and that is spread out through the County, developing routes and efficiencies will be challenging. In addition, there has to be more support from the upper tiers of government to make it work.
Ward 1
Clayton Cameron
No reply
Jennifer Hughey
Yes. As someone who experienced life with no access to a vehicle for many years, I understand the feeling of what no transportation is like. The lack of autonomy, potential of job loss, fear of not being able to get to a hospital – can all be debilitating for residents of all ages. As our county continues to experience the lack of skilled workers in many tourism-based industries, it is ever important to consider public transit options for each community. In Minden Hills, many restaurants are suffering from a lack of skilled chefs and line cooks. Would that change if people could take public transit to work? The municipality itself is lacking people to take the Community Service Department positions that have been listed in the media for more than a month – could public transit help someone skilled in those areas get to work from one end of the county to the other? We won’t know unless we take a look at some best practices other municipalities are doing, like Bancroft, are doing. If elected, yes, I would commit to implementing a “working” transit system, with the potential of fully operational in a second term.
Richard Bradley
Yes. I would like to see a reasonably priced way for people to get around that may be subsidized by the County and all participating municipalities. The ride sharing program that has been proposed may be a good way to start.
Dwight Thomas
I cannot commit to something I’ve yet to see. The feasibility study has not been completed. When it is done and the County chooses to share the results, I’ll be in a better position to comment on it.
Bob Carter
I am a volunteer driver for HHHS so I am acutely aware of transportation issues in Haliburton County. I am also a member of the Housing Task Force which seeks creative development of residences appropriate for any occupant with or without a personal vehicle. I well understand that housing and transportation have to be linked. People need transportation to get to their doctors, the grocery stores, their work places, etc. Therefore, we must incorporate transportation into planning.
In this 4-year term I will work diligently to make progress on both of these issues.
Rob Luke
No reply
Ward 2
Pam Sayne
I can say yes to making it a priority. Transportation is an upper tier (County Council) responsibility. Having said that, this has not stopped myself or Minden Hills Committees from entering the discussion by way of support. Public transportation is necessary for all the reasons mentioned above and more. The RideShare program is a good beginning thanks to many local volunteers. A more dependable/predictable public alternative is needed. What is difficult in our area is the distance of homes from the main arteries. There are systems such as UBER that was successfully launched in Innisfil to reach such isolated residents. That being said, the population of Innisfil far exceeds that of Haliburton County, and phone service is required. My discussions with people from Innisfil and people who have used the system were all positive. It is the most affordable and comprehensive model I have observed to date; that being said, we do need to develop our own model. Implementing a system within the next 4 years, preferably sooner, would make our community much more functional, more social and more productive.
Mike Grozelle
No reply
Ward 3
Russ Duhaime
No reply
Jean Neville
Yes
Communities across Haliburton County recognize the need for and value of public transit.
Without public transportation employers can not find employees, seniors stay at home, youth
can not participate in school activities and we increase our release of greenhouse gases. The
County has contracted for a plan to implement the shared booked ride model proposed by the
Transportation Task Force. For more information go to www.transportationhaliburtoncounty.ca
If you are elected, will you commit to implementing an operating transit system by the
end of your 4-year term?
YES or NO
Comments
Mayor
Brent Devolin
If I am re-elected I will continue to pursue the goal of achieving an integrated, cost-effective transportation system. As a member of the Haliburton County Transportation Task Force and the Poverty Reduction Task Round Table (a City of Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton County initiative), I will continue the efforts that I have participated in for the last 2 ½ years. During this engagement, it has become apparent that the integration of existing public funded transportation services (e.g. HHHS van, Community volunteers, taxis, etc.) with an expanded level of service would help meet public expectations for our region.
Wayne Hancock
Yes - Haliburton County has a large rural population, so transit system must be arrived at through several possibilities. In some areas, a dial a ride system has been adopted to provide access while being subsidized. In addition, I would consider a form of Uber, neighbour to neighbour, and certainly a form of transit for both the handicapped and elderly. The amount of subsidy would be determined by budget each year.
Jarrett Campbell
No reply
Deputy Mayor
Lisa Schell
No reply
Councillor at Large
Ron Nesbitt
No reply
John Teljeur
Having been an active volunteer for Haliburton County Food Banks and other agencies, I have provided my input to the Transportation Task Force. I have seen first hand the challenges people have in not being able to find transportation to seek employment, access services or even buy groceries. While there is no question that a service would be of value to those that struggle with transportation issues, the challenge will be to find a workable and affordable model that will address these issues. With little population density in our towns and that is spread out through the County, developing routes and efficiencies will be challenging. In addition, there has to be more support from the upper tiers of government to make it work.
Ward 1
Clayton Cameron
No reply
Jennifer Hughey
Yes. As someone who experienced life with no access to a vehicle for many years, I understand the feeling of what no transportation is like. The lack of autonomy, potential of job loss, fear of not being able to get to a hospital – can all be debilitating for residents of all ages. As our county continues to experience the lack of skilled workers in many tourism-based industries, it is ever important to consider public transit options for each community. In Minden Hills, many restaurants are suffering from a lack of skilled chefs and line cooks. Would that change if people could take public transit to work? The municipality itself is lacking people to take the Community Service Department positions that have been listed in the media for more than a month – could public transit help someone skilled in those areas get to work from one end of the county to the other? We won’t know unless we take a look at some best practices other municipalities are doing, like Bancroft, are doing. If elected, yes, I would commit to implementing a “working” transit system, with the potential of fully operational in a second term.
Richard Bradley
Yes. I would like to see a reasonably priced way for people to get around that may be subsidized by the County and all participating municipalities. The ride sharing program that has been proposed may be a good way to start.
Dwight Thomas
I cannot commit to something I’ve yet to see. The feasibility study has not been completed. When it is done and the County chooses to share the results, I’ll be in a better position to comment on it.
Bob Carter
I am a volunteer driver for HHHS so I am acutely aware of transportation issues in Haliburton County. I am also a member of the Housing Task Force which seeks creative development of residences appropriate for any occupant with or without a personal vehicle. I well understand that housing and transportation have to be linked. People need transportation to get to their doctors, the grocery stores, their work places, etc. Therefore, we must incorporate transportation into planning.
In this 4-year term I will work diligently to make progress on both of these issues.
Rob Luke
No reply
Ward 2
Pam Sayne
I can say yes to making it a priority. Transportation is an upper tier (County Council) responsibility. Having said that, this has not stopped myself or Minden Hills Committees from entering the discussion by way of support. Public transportation is necessary for all the reasons mentioned above and more. The RideShare program is a good beginning thanks to many local volunteers. A more dependable/predictable public alternative is needed. What is difficult in our area is the distance of homes from the main arteries. There are systems such as UBER that was successfully launched in Innisfil to reach such isolated residents. That being said, the population of Innisfil far exceeds that of Haliburton County, and phone service is required. My discussions with people from Innisfil and people who have used the system were all positive. It is the most affordable and comprehensive model I have observed to date; that being said, we do need to develop our own model. Implementing a system within the next 4 years, preferably sooner, would make our community much more functional, more social and more productive.
Mike Grozelle
No reply
Ward 3
Russ Duhaime
No reply
Jean Neville
Yes
2) Climate Change (Adaptation):
Climate change is accelerating, and municipalities around the world are rushing to adapt to the
impacts of severe weather, flooding and invasive species. Jurisdictions surrounding Haliburton
County already have or are developing Climate Change Adaptation Plans to protect people
and property from the impact of the climate changes already locked in by past greenhouse gas
emissions.
If elected, will you commit to doing everything you can to develop a county-wide
Climate Change Adaptation Plan within the next term of council?
YES or NO
Comments
Mayor
Brent Devolin
Climate Change Adaption Planning requires the concerted efforts of Federal, Provincial and Municipal governments. An integrated cohesive strategy, not an ad-hoc approach, would produce the best results and bring about real change in environmental protection. At the local level, Official Plans changes at both the upper and lower tiers will be required to aid in that process. The new Haliburton County Official Plan helps set the scene for further evolution of this change and I will gladly be part of a local and provincial process to further the objectives of Climate Change mitigation and protective measures. Successful funding under the National Disaster Mitigation (Lidar Mapping, etc.) is just one step in the process, and it was achieved with participation and support of 6 regional municipalities (Upper Trent Water Management Partnership), CEWF, provincial MNRF and federal TSW partners. This type of multi-jurisdictional approach would be the most effective path to success.
Wayne Hancock
Yes : I would suggest that we have a co-operative program at all levels, but specifically at the local and County level to control these items. We need a specific program for invasive species and control program. Flooding is a constant danger and we must deal with it on more progressive basis. The Gull River is a good example of lots of study but no action. We must create a plan to deal wit specific issues and more broader County issues.
Jarrett Campbell
No reply
Deputy Mayor
Lisa Schell
No reply
Councillor at Large
Ron Nesbitt
No reply
John Teljeur
Minden Hills currently has a climate change committee and I would support the ongoing work and goals of that group.
Ward 1
Clayton Cameron
No reply
Jennifer Hughey
Yes. Absolutely. In Minden Hills, it would be extremely detrimental to ignore the warning signs we have already been given to consider a Climate Change Adaptation Plan. With flooding, the state of the Scotch Line Landfill and the seagull infestation on Mountain Lake, we need to think ahead about the long-term impact on the environment that these issues pose for our municipality. Partnering with the Elementary School and local environmental groups such as EH!, to provide workshops and information sessions for our youth would be an idea I would suggest, making the CCAP public and allow our children to work with us to provide a better system for their future.
Richard Bradley
Yes. I am not running for a county level seat, but I would like to see the county take the lead on this as I do not see much hope that the province is going to be an available source of funding or expertise.
Dwight Thomas
Yes. As I will not sit on County Council I will not have a direct input. But I’ll be pleased to assist in the development of such a plan.
Bob Carter
The climate is changing and with it comes abnormal and severe weather events. Much of what is done by the Township must take this into account. I serve as President of the Lake Kashagawigamog Organization and we are starting to test for invasive species in addition to the water quality testing that we have done for many years. Lake associations and umbrella organizations such as the CHA and CEWF are working co-operatively with the municipalities and other levels of government to forecast and mitigate the risks associated with climate change. I am in favor of planning based on the best forecasts we can make so that we can communicate, educate and motivate governments and people to work together on these issues.
Ward 2
Rob Luke
No reply
Pam Sayne
Yes. Climate change reduction and adaptation are critical concerns and quickly becoming more evident in local and world events. I initiated the Climate Change Action Committee in Minden Hills during my term. With a committed group of residents, we are pushing for more attention to reducing emissions and support better planning and decision making related to climate change(s). I will continue to support these issues and I know those associated with the committee will continue their initiatives. We are trying to change a culture that did not address these concerns in the past. A small initiative, getting senior staff to consider energy use and the environment in each proposal to council, is a small but important part to bring climate change into awareness. The Committee also brought together Provincial Ministries, county-wide politicians and county-wide residents to move forward and encourage action at the County level. This Committee’s expertise needs to be better integrated with the work of the Municipality and work at the County level.
Mike Grozelle
No reply
Ward 3
Russ Duhaime
No reply
Jean Neville
Yes. One area that needs immediate focus is our landfills and diversion/composting of organic waste. I would also like to see a ban on unnecessary plastics ie. Single use water bottles.
Reuse of construction materials and a ban on replacing existing structures that were built to code and are less than 15 years old.
Climate change is accelerating, and municipalities around the world are rushing to adapt to the
impacts of severe weather, flooding and invasive species. Jurisdictions surrounding Haliburton
County already have or are developing Climate Change Adaptation Plans to protect people
and property from the impact of the climate changes already locked in by past greenhouse gas
emissions.
If elected, will you commit to doing everything you can to develop a county-wide
Climate Change Adaptation Plan within the next term of council?
YES or NO
Comments
Mayor
Brent Devolin
Climate Change Adaption Planning requires the concerted efforts of Federal, Provincial and Municipal governments. An integrated cohesive strategy, not an ad-hoc approach, would produce the best results and bring about real change in environmental protection. At the local level, Official Plans changes at both the upper and lower tiers will be required to aid in that process. The new Haliburton County Official Plan helps set the scene for further evolution of this change and I will gladly be part of a local and provincial process to further the objectives of Climate Change mitigation and protective measures. Successful funding under the National Disaster Mitigation (Lidar Mapping, etc.) is just one step in the process, and it was achieved with participation and support of 6 regional municipalities (Upper Trent Water Management Partnership), CEWF, provincial MNRF and federal TSW partners. This type of multi-jurisdictional approach would be the most effective path to success.
Wayne Hancock
Yes : I would suggest that we have a co-operative program at all levels, but specifically at the local and County level to control these items. We need a specific program for invasive species and control program. Flooding is a constant danger and we must deal with it on more progressive basis. The Gull River is a good example of lots of study but no action. We must create a plan to deal wit specific issues and more broader County issues.
Jarrett Campbell
No reply
Deputy Mayor
Lisa Schell
No reply
Councillor at Large
Ron Nesbitt
No reply
John Teljeur
Minden Hills currently has a climate change committee and I would support the ongoing work and goals of that group.
Ward 1
Clayton Cameron
No reply
Jennifer Hughey
Yes. Absolutely. In Minden Hills, it would be extremely detrimental to ignore the warning signs we have already been given to consider a Climate Change Adaptation Plan. With flooding, the state of the Scotch Line Landfill and the seagull infestation on Mountain Lake, we need to think ahead about the long-term impact on the environment that these issues pose for our municipality. Partnering with the Elementary School and local environmental groups such as EH!, to provide workshops and information sessions for our youth would be an idea I would suggest, making the CCAP public and allow our children to work with us to provide a better system for their future.
Richard Bradley
Yes. I am not running for a county level seat, but I would like to see the county take the lead on this as I do not see much hope that the province is going to be an available source of funding or expertise.
Dwight Thomas
Yes. As I will not sit on County Council I will not have a direct input. But I’ll be pleased to assist in the development of such a plan.
Bob Carter
The climate is changing and with it comes abnormal and severe weather events. Much of what is done by the Township must take this into account. I serve as President of the Lake Kashagawigamog Organization and we are starting to test for invasive species in addition to the water quality testing that we have done for many years. Lake associations and umbrella organizations such as the CHA and CEWF are working co-operatively with the municipalities and other levels of government to forecast and mitigate the risks associated with climate change. I am in favor of planning based on the best forecasts we can make so that we can communicate, educate and motivate governments and people to work together on these issues.
Ward 2
Rob Luke
No reply
Pam Sayne
Yes. Climate change reduction and adaptation are critical concerns and quickly becoming more evident in local and world events. I initiated the Climate Change Action Committee in Minden Hills during my term. With a committed group of residents, we are pushing for more attention to reducing emissions and support better planning and decision making related to climate change(s). I will continue to support these issues and I know those associated with the committee will continue their initiatives. We are trying to change a culture that did not address these concerns in the past. A small initiative, getting senior staff to consider energy use and the environment in each proposal to council, is a small but important part to bring climate change into awareness. The Committee also brought together Provincial Ministries, county-wide politicians and county-wide residents to move forward and encourage action at the County level. This Committee’s expertise needs to be better integrated with the work of the Municipality and work at the County level.
Mike Grozelle
No reply
Ward 3
Russ Duhaime
No reply
Jean Neville
Yes. One area that needs immediate focus is our landfills and diversion/composting of organic waste. I would also like to see a ban on unnecessary plastics ie. Single use water bottles.
Reuse of construction materials and a ban on replacing existing structures that were built to code and are less than 15 years old.
3) Climate Change (Mitigation):
Over the last term of County Council, a county-wide initiative to address climate change was
discussed but not acted upon. It’s even unclear whether Township and County corporate
greenhouse gas emissions have been rising or falling over the past six years because no one
has tallied the results of provincially-mandated annual energy use and carbon emission reports
and compared them to the modest reduction goals set out in the Township and County Energy
Management Plans.
If elected, will you fight to make adoption of a Climate Change Action Plan a Council
Priority, pursue funding and staffing commitments to make it happen, and urge Council
to take climate change into account when making all Township and the County
infrastructure investments?
YES or NO
Comments
Mayor
Brent Devolin
The best example of applying this approach in Minden Hills is the current Community Centre renewal project. From 2015 when the renewal project commenced, investigative efforts were undertaken to consider the best practises for carbon footprint outcomes and energy conservation. All the parties that were to be considered were first informed that building design elements with LEAN and green components would be given top consideration. Refrigeration plant options that were the most energy efficient and environmentally friendly would be the preferred option in the renewed facility. The Building Task Force also has stipulated that “value added” consideration would be given for any current technologies that can be included in the design, and that any design options should not preclude future alternative energy solutions. I am committed to this approach at both the County and Minden Hills.
Wayne Hancock
Yes - This requires a partnership between municipal, county, provincial and federal. I believe we must do this and to the extent we have control. This requires negotiation at all levels, and changes on those items with our Township does have control over. Since this is a very broad subject and all inclusive, it is important to focus on those items which we can control while requesting that higher levels do also. This needs action more than indecisive discussion. AS an example, I am a strong believer in solar energy and have implemented on my own property as well as for Municipalities
Jarrett Campbell
No reply
Deputy Mayor
Lisa Schell
No reply
Councillor at Large
Ron Nesbitt
No reply
John Teljeur
Minden Hills currently has a climate change committee and I would support the ongoing work and goals of that group.
Ward 1
Clayton Cameron
No reply
Jennifer Hughey
Yes. Again, absolutely. It’s something that shouldn’t be as difficult to come to an agreement on, considering the future generation of Minden Hills will be much more focused on the state of the environment. Greenhouse gas emissions should be tracked and it’s upsetting that they have not been for that length of time. We should be taking this more seriously and as it is a provincially-mandated, that should mean important enough to the township to start adding up the annual energy use and carbon emissions in our township. If there are reduction goals set out in the Township and County Energy Management Plans, how are we doing? This is a matter of public interest and should be made public as to make residents accountable too.
Richard Bradley
Yes. We should always be aware of our impact on climate change and do everything we can to minimize it when possible.
Dwight Thomas
Without reading any of these studies, I cannot commit to anything. However, I will study them and see other information to make an informed opinion.
Bob Carter
I agree that the Township should be measuring and tracking our energy use and emissions. I also agree that we need to be responsible to all environmental implications when making infrastructure investments. I fully support setting goals, planning and measuring results for all projects.
Ward 2
Pam Sayne
Yes. Minden Hills staff prepare and file annual Energy Conservation and Demand Management Plan reports, as mandated by the Province. They can be found on our website going back to 2012. The url is: https://mindenhills.ca/environmental-services/environmental-initiatives/ Minden Hills Ontario Energy Plan as per Ontario Regulation 397/11 is also available at this site. The Climate Change Action Committee, along with staff and in partnership with Ulinks, brought this information to public attention. The Committee is dedicated to continuing this work and needs the support of Council to be more effective. The Committee members attempted to influence development decisions, considering energy use and emissions, as proven effective in other Canadian Municipalities.
Mike Grozelle
No reply
Ward 3
Russ Duhaime
No reply
Jean Neville
Yes
Over the last term of County Council, a county-wide initiative to address climate change was
discussed but not acted upon. It’s even unclear whether Township and County corporate
greenhouse gas emissions have been rising or falling over the past six years because no one
has tallied the results of provincially-mandated annual energy use and carbon emission reports
and compared them to the modest reduction goals set out in the Township and County Energy
Management Plans.
If elected, will you fight to make adoption of a Climate Change Action Plan a Council
Priority, pursue funding and staffing commitments to make it happen, and urge Council
to take climate change into account when making all Township and the County
infrastructure investments?
YES or NO
Comments
Mayor
Brent Devolin
The best example of applying this approach in Minden Hills is the current Community Centre renewal project. From 2015 when the renewal project commenced, investigative efforts were undertaken to consider the best practises for carbon footprint outcomes and energy conservation. All the parties that were to be considered were first informed that building design elements with LEAN and green components would be given top consideration. Refrigeration plant options that were the most energy efficient and environmentally friendly would be the preferred option in the renewed facility. The Building Task Force also has stipulated that “value added” consideration would be given for any current technologies that can be included in the design, and that any design options should not preclude future alternative energy solutions. I am committed to this approach at both the County and Minden Hills.
Wayne Hancock
Yes - This requires a partnership between municipal, county, provincial and federal. I believe we must do this and to the extent we have control. This requires negotiation at all levels, and changes on those items with our Township does have control over. Since this is a very broad subject and all inclusive, it is important to focus on those items which we can control while requesting that higher levels do also. This needs action more than indecisive discussion. AS an example, I am a strong believer in solar energy and have implemented on my own property as well as for Municipalities
Jarrett Campbell
No reply
Deputy Mayor
Lisa Schell
No reply
Councillor at Large
Ron Nesbitt
No reply
John Teljeur
Minden Hills currently has a climate change committee and I would support the ongoing work and goals of that group.
Ward 1
Clayton Cameron
No reply
Jennifer Hughey
Yes. Again, absolutely. It’s something that shouldn’t be as difficult to come to an agreement on, considering the future generation of Minden Hills will be much more focused on the state of the environment. Greenhouse gas emissions should be tracked and it’s upsetting that they have not been for that length of time. We should be taking this more seriously and as it is a provincially-mandated, that should mean important enough to the township to start adding up the annual energy use and carbon emissions in our township. If there are reduction goals set out in the Township and County Energy Management Plans, how are we doing? This is a matter of public interest and should be made public as to make residents accountable too.
Richard Bradley
Yes. We should always be aware of our impact on climate change and do everything we can to minimize it when possible.
Dwight Thomas
Without reading any of these studies, I cannot commit to anything. However, I will study them and see other information to make an informed opinion.
Bob Carter
I agree that the Township should be measuring and tracking our energy use and emissions. I also agree that we need to be responsible to all environmental implications when making infrastructure investments. I fully support setting goals, planning and measuring results for all projects.
Ward 2
Pam Sayne
Yes. Minden Hills staff prepare and file annual Energy Conservation and Demand Management Plan reports, as mandated by the Province. They can be found on our website going back to 2012. The url is: https://mindenhills.ca/environmental-services/environmental-initiatives/ Minden Hills Ontario Energy Plan as per Ontario Regulation 397/11 is also available at this site. The Climate Change Action Committee, along with staff and in partnership with Ulinks, brought this information to public attention. The Committee is dedicated to continuing this work and needs the support of Council to be more effective. The Committee members attempted to influence development decisions, considering energy use and emissions, as proven effective in other Canadian Municipalities.
Mike Grozelle
No reply
Ward 3
Russ Duhaime
No reply
Jean Neville
Yes
4) Food Security
Food insecurity has many sources – poverty, lack of access to healthy foods, long food supply
chains. It is estimated that stores stock only 3 days food. Should the supply chain collapse
people in Haliburton County will be in a food deficit. Relying more on locally produced food
would go some way to alleviate food insecurity. Our Haliburton Townships and the County are
to be commended for having taken many steps to support local agriculture and the food
system, including participating in Harvest Haliburton (http://www.harvesthaliburton.com/).
If elected will you ensure that your Municipality takes into consideration the production,
processing and retail of local foods and land use, when formulating by-laws and by-law
amendments, recognizing our rural nature?
YES or NO
Comments
Mayor
Brent Devolin
In a word YES. I have the good fortune to look out my bedroom window and to see local food production in a commercial green house, and I will continue to support initiatives like the local farmers markets for those that produce food in our area. I am also willing to pursue Official Plan initiatives through like zoning by-laws, Community Improvement Plans (CIP’s), Business Retention and Expansion plans (BR&E’s) and other tools at our disposal. These are the types of municipal tools that I expect our new Economic Development person to utilize as we craft policy to support local food production.
Wayne Hancock
Local production or home grown is both healthy as well as good for the local economy. I have suggested that ouyr Township should relook the official plan as well as the zoning bylaws and consider carefully land use in all sectors. This would include agriculture. I believe the local farmers`market is essential to every municipality.
Jarrett Campbell
No reply
Deputy Mayor
Lisa Schell
No reply
Councillor at Large
Ron Nesbitt
No reply
John Teljeur
I was part of the original group that started the Haliburton County Community Gardens Network and to this day I provide fresh (and free) produce to food banks and community kitchen programs. I also co-wrote the grants that facilitated the building of two food hubs in the County. This gave them the capacity (fridges, freezers, dry storage) to facilitate the acquisition of fresh produce/proteins that only a few years before they would not have the space to take. While the ability to grow/market our own local food would be an important consideration when presented with projects/initiatives at council, my focus would be more on the issues of food insecurity.
Ward 1
Clayton Cameron
No reply
Jennifer Hughey
Yes. It is important to remember our community’s roots. They are part of our culture, history and heritage. As Harvest Haliburton’s website suggests, the goal is to “creat[e] a sustainable local food system supports our economy, the health of our environment, and the health and social well-being of our residents. This makes our community a wonderful place, to live, work, play and visit.” These are main reasons why I am running for Minden Hills council; and will continue to ask questions about the formulating of by-laws and by-law amendments – and to promote why it’s important to recognize our rural nature. As the Community Improvement Plan is developed and then, enacted, we will be able to work towards bringing back that history and heritage which includes of our local food growth strategies. With many local farm productions in the area, it only makes sense to take them into consideration for the production, processing and retail of what our local farmers have to bring to the table. More community gardens, backyard, workplace, rooftop gardens, farmers markets, etc. through the Township developing a sustainable local food system.
Richard Bradley
Yes. Farmers feed us all and our decisions should not be detrimental to the ability of local food producers to operate and thrive. While we can encourage retailers to rely on more local foods as the right thing to do, we have to accept that they are going to make business decisions and in some cases may not have the discretion required to do as much as we might hope or expect.
Dwight Thomas
Yes
Bob Carter
I am very much in favour of encouraging the production and consumption of locally grown foods. Ideally, supporting producers and local markets should be emphasized. As you have stated, we have already taken many steps in support of local agriculture and we should continue. I believe this is one of the factors that the municipality should take into consideration when planning and formulating by-laws.
Rob Luke
No reply
Ward 2
Pam Sayne
Yes. Food self-reliance is important for our community. Geo-political forces presently control our food industry. We can see the problems in free trade negotiations and our dairy industry is a case in point. We need to support our local farmers. More awareness is needed on just how delicate our food supply sources can be locally and globally. Also, we need better management of our forests, protection for endangered species, and enforcement of our hunting regulations which provide an important food source for many local families.
Mike Grozelle
No reply
Ward 3
Russ Duhaime
No reply
Jean Neville
Yes. There is provincial legislation and local by-laws that restrict agricultural practices in our area. Many have the mentality of farming south of hwy 7 which does NOT make sense on the Canadian Shield. We need to be encouraging agricultural activities and small farming when revisiting by-laws with common sense and food security in mind and not painting every zone with the same brush for ease of enforcement.
Food insecurity has many sources – poverty, lack of access to healthy foods, long food supply
chains. It is estimated that stores stock only 3 days food. Should the supply chain collapse
people in Haliburton County will be in a food deficit. Relying more on locally produced food
would go some way to alleviate food insecurity. Our Haliburton Townships and the County are
to be commended for having taken many steps to support local agriculture and the food
system, including participating in Harvest Haliburton (http://www.harvesthaliburton.com/).
If elected will you ensure that your Municipality takes into consideration the production,
processing and retail of local foods and land use, when formulating by-laws and by-law
amendments, recognizing our rural nature?
YES or NO
Comments
Mayor
Brent Devolin
In a word YES. I have the good fortune to look out my bedroom window and to see local food production in a commercial green house, and I will continue to support initiatives like the local farmers markets for those that produce food in our area. I am also willing to pursue Official Plan initiatives through like zoning by-laws, Community Improvement Plans (CIP’s), Business Retention and Expansion plans (BR&E’s) and other tools at our disposal. These are the types of municipal tools that I expect our new Economic Development person to utilize as we craft policy to support local food production.
Wayne Hancock
Local production or home grown is both healthy as well as good for the local economy. I have suggested that ouyr Township should relook the official plan as well as the zoning bylaws and consider carefully land use in all sectors. This would include agriculture. I believe the local farmers`market is essential to every municipality.
Jarrett Campbell
No reply
Deputy Mayor
Lisa Schell
No reply
Councillor at Large
Ron Nesbitt
No reply
John Teljeur
I was part of the original group that started the Haliburton County Community Gardens Network and to this day I provide fresh (and free) produce to food banks and community kitchen programs. I also co-wrote the grants that facilitated the building of two food hubs in the County. This gave them the capacity (fridges, freezers, dry storage) to facilitate the acquisition of fresh produce/proteins that only a few years before they would not have the space to take. While the ability to grow/market our own local food would be an important consideration when presented with projects/initiatives at council, my focus would be more on the issues of food insecurity.
Ward 1
Clayton Cameron
No reply
Jennifer Hughey
Yes. It is important to remember our community’s roots. They are part of our culture, history and heritage. As Harvest Haliburton’s website suggests, the goal is to “creat[e] a sustainable local food system supports our economy, the health of our environment, and the health and social well-being of our residents. This makes our community a wonderful place, to live, work, play and visit.” These are main reasons why I am running for Minden Hills council; and will continue to ask questions about the formulating of by-laws and by-law amendments – and to promote why it’s important to recognize our rural nature. As the Community Improvement Plan is developed and then, enacted, we will be able to work towards bringing back that history and heritage which includes of our local food growth strategies. With many local farm productions in the area, it only makes sense to take them into consideration for the production, processing and retail of what our local farmers have to bring to the table. More community gardens, backyard, workplace, rooftop gardens, farmers markets, etc. through the Township developing a sustainable local food system.
Richard Bradley
Yes. Farmers feed us all and our decisions should not be detrimental to the ability of local food producers to operate and thrive. While we can encourage retailers to rely on more local foods as the right thing to do, we have to accept that they are going to make business decisions and in some cases may not have the discretion required to do as much as we might hope or expect.
Dwight Thomas
Yes
Bob Carter
I am very much in favour of encouraging the production and consumption of locally grown foods. Ideally, supporting producers and local markets should be emphasized. As you have stated, we have already taken many steps in support of local agriculture and we should continue. I believe this is one of the factors that the municipality should take into consideration when planning and formulating by-laws.
Rob Luke
No reply
Ward 2
Pam Sayne
Yes. Food self-reliance is important for our community. Geo-political forces presently control our food industry. We can see the problems in free trade negotiations and our dairy industry is a case in point. We need to support our local farmers. More awareness is needed on just how delicate our food supply sources can be locally and globally. Also, we need better management of our forests, protection for endangered species, and enforcement of our hunting regulations which provide an important food source for many local families.
Mike Grozelle
No reply
Ward 3
Russ Duhaime
No reply
Jean Neville
Yes. There is provincial legislation and local by-laws that restrict agricultural practices in our area. Many have the mentality of farming south of hwy 7 which does NOT make sense on the Canadian Shield. We need to be encouraging agricultural activities and small farming when revisiting by-laws with common sense and food security in mind and not painting every zone with the same brush for ease of enforcement.
5) Wetlands:
Wetlands are important. They provide habitat for fish and wildlife, groundwater recharge and
discharge areas, water quality protection through filtering, flood and erosion control and are
rich in biodiversity. They are also carbon sinks, helping to mitigate the impact of climate
change.
It is estimated that over 20,000 wetlands in the County have not been evaluated, 8 are
protected as Provincially Significant Wetlands. Municipal and county land use plans do
provide protection for wetlands. However, we continue to lose wetlands to development.
Enforcement of wetlands protection on municipal lands is weak at best.
If elected, will you ensure that the wetland protection provisions in your land use plan
are enforced?
YES or NO
Comments
Mayor
Brent Devolin
Yes, I will continue to support staff in enforcement of wetland protection provisions in local land use plans.
Wayne Hancock
Our wetlands are critical to our environment. They are the natural areas to be protected for the preservation of species from insects to birds to the Monarch butterfly. While, we protect I believe we can create more and restore the areas that have been adversely affected. These are part of our future.
Jarrett Campbell
No reply
Deputy Mayor
Lisa Schell
No reply
Councillor at Large
Ron Nesbitt
No reply
John Teljeur
Wetlands are a critical component of a healthy watershed. Measures must be taken/enforced to ensure that development respect its role in our ecosystem.
Ward 1
Clayton Cameron
No reply
Jennifer Hughey
Yes. The enforcement of wetlands protection has been engrained in me from a very young age. My family are anglers and hunters and appreciate the land for the bounty in which it can be used to forage and feed. In order to maintain that bounty, it is extremely important to protect wetlands for the habitat they provide, “they protect the shore from break waves, decrease the impacts of floods, absorb pollutants and improve water quality” according to Ducks Unlimited Canada. They also protect us from drought by holding water when conditions are dry, reduce the greenhouse gases we were discussing above and ultimately, as I have noted, wetlands protect wildlife. “They provide hundreds of species with safe places to eat, sleep and raise young. They provide habitat for animals and plants and many contain a wide diversity of life, supporting plants and animals that are found nowhere else.” If we aim to promote local agriculture and the food system, these go hand-in-hand in my opinion.
Richard Bradley
Yes. We should enforce our existing wetland protection provisions and continue to develop them in consultation with the province and the expert advice that their staff can provide us and our municipal staff.
Dwight Thomas
Yes
Bob Carter
I support the protection of wetlands for all the reasons that you cite. I also believe that protections that are built into our plans should be enforced.
Rob Luke
No reply
Ward 2
Pam Sayne
Planning & Development and Zoning must consider the preservation of wetlands to maintain a healthy natural environment. Minimum requirements are set by the Province. It is the incremental and small encroachments that can eventually lead to the destruction of our wetlands. We need to decide how much, and what kind, of growth we support. Compromises need to be measured, and drawing the proverbial “line in the sand” needs to be enforced if this is going to work. It is a concern not just for maintaining a healthy natural environment and endangered species, but for the human species also.
Mike Grozelle
No reply
Ward 3
Russ Duhaime
No reply
Jean Neville
Yes. I can’t believe when travelling throughout our county and elsewhere, that there are places where marshes are being filled in and no one is stopping this from happening. When a building or severance permit is considered this IS taken seriously but seems to be ignored in established parcels.
Wetlands are important. They provide habitat for fish and wildlife, groundwater recharge and
discharge areas, water quality protection through filtering, flood and erosion control and are
rich in biodiversity. They are also carbon sinks, helping to mitigate the impact of climate
change.
It is estimated that over 20,000 wetlands in the County have not been evaluated, 8 are
protected as Provincially Significant Wetlands. Municipal and county land use plans do
provide protection for wetlands. However, we continue to lose wetlands to development.
Enforcement of wetlands protection on municipal lands is weak at best.
If elected, will you ensure that the wetland protection provisions in your land use plan
are enforced?
YES or NO
Comments
Mayor
Brent Devolin
Yes, I will continue to support staff in enforcement of wetland protection provisions in local land use plans.
Wayne Hancock
Our wetlands are critical to our environment. They are the natural areas to be protected for the preservation of species from insects to birds to the Monarch butterfly. While, we protect I believe we can create more and restore the areas that have been adversely affected. These are part of our future.
Jarrett Campbell
No reply
Deputy Mayor
Lisa Schell
No reply
Councillor at Large
Ron Nesbitt
No reply
John Teljeur
Wetlands are a critical component of a healthy watershed. Measures must be taken/enforced to ensure that development respect its role in our ecosystem.
Ward 1
Clayton Cameron
No reply
Jennifer Hughey
Yes. The enforcement of wetlands protection has been engrained in me from a very young age. My family are anglers and hunters and appreciate the land for the bounty in which it can be used to forage and feed. In order to maintain that bounty, it is extremely important to protect wetlands for the habitat they provide, “they protect the shore from break waves, decrease the impacts of floods, absorb pollutants and improve water quality” according to Ducks Unlimited Canada. They also protect us from drought by holding water when conditions are dry, reduce the greenhouse gases we were discussing above and ultimately, as I have noted, wetlands protect wildlife. “They provide hundreds of species with safe places to eat, sleep and raise young. They provide habitat for animals and plants and many contain a wide diversity of life, supporting plants and animals that are found nowhere else.” If we aim to promote local agriculture and the food system, these go hand-in-hand in my opinion.
Richard Bradley
Yes. We should enforce our existing wetland protection provisions and continue to develop them in consultation with the province and the expert advice that their staff can provide us and our municipal staff.
Dwight Thomas
Yes
Bob Carter
I support the protection of wetlands for all the reasons that you cite. I also believe that protections that are built into our plans should be enforced.
Rob Luke
No reply
Ward 2
Pam Sayne
Planning & Development and Zoning must consider the preservation of wetlands to maintain a healthy natural environment. Minimum requirements are set by the Province. It is the incremental and small encroachments that can eventually lead to the destruction of our wetlands. We need to decide how much, and what kind, of growth we support. Compromises need to be measured, and drawing the proverbial “line in the sand” needs to be enforced if this is going to work. It is a concern not just for maintaining a healthy natural environment and endangered species, but for the human species also.
Mike Grozelle
No reply
Ward 3
Russ Duhaime
No reply
Jean Neville
Yes. I can’t believe when travelling throughout our county and elsewhere, that there are places where marshes are being filled in and no one is stopping this from happening. When a building or severance permit is considered this IS taken seriously but seems to be ignored in established parcels.
6) Species at Risk:
Scientists say that we are in the sixth mass extinction of plants and animals. Differing from the
other five extinctions, this one is caused by us through loss of habitat, introduction of exotic
species and climate change. Haliburton County is home to several known species at risk.
From bats and turtles to Butternut trees and American Ginseng the list is a getting longer as
Climate Change alters our living environment. A list of the identified species can be found on
the Haliburton Land Trust website https://www.haliburtonlandtrust.ca/wildlife/species-at-risk.
If elected, do you commit supporting the efforts made by several local organizations to
protect species at risk and their habitat?
YES or NO
Comments
Mayor
Brent Devolin
Yes, I will continue to support local organizations like Haliburton Highlands Outdoors Association (HHOA), Coalition of Haliburton Property Owners Association (CHA), Haliburton Highlands Land Trust (HHLT), Haliburton Highlands Field Naturalists(HHFN), Ducks Unlimited(DU), Environment Haliburton(EH), and many other smaller coalitions of the public that work to achieve habitat protection and protection of species at risk. This support takes many forms, with the County directly funding the HHOA in support of their hatchery activities, while Minden Hills co-manages Snowden Park with HHFN. We also receive input from any, and all these groups on matters considered by the councils on which we serve. We are grateful for their volunteer efforts employed in support of the organizations to which they belong, and the expertise that possess that becomes part of a local discussion on policy and direction.
Wayne Hancock
Yes - This goes without saying, We must do all we can to protect all species. The cry of the whip-poor-will should never be lost for one, as is the same with all others. We must protect these so our future descendants can hear and see what we have heard and seen.
Jarrett Campbell
No reply
Deputy Mayor
Lisa Schell
No reply
Councillor at Large
Ron Nesbitt
No reply
John Teljeur
I recognize the need of all levels of government as well as the public to play a more active role in protecting species that are at risk. In a lot of cases, there is a general lack of understanding of the issues and the roles we can play to change outcomes and the realities of our inaction. I would be open to discussing measures the municipality could undertake in supporting habitat preservation.
Ward 1
Clayton Cameron
No reply
Jennifer Hughey
Yes. Would anyone actually say no to this? It is absolutely imperative to support the efforts already made and in motion to protect species and their habitats. My feelings toward the environment are laid out in the last three answers provided, in that we need to respect the space we share with all species. The initiatives in place by organizations like the Haliburton Highlands Land Trust and EH! help establish an attitude and way of thinking that the municipality can adhere to and ask about, in the event there are questions about the how or why. I always encourage anyone that is unsure, to visit the link you have provided or to read more about the conservation options available to us. Yes, I would commit to supporting the efforts already in place to protect species at risk and their habitats.
Richard Bradley
Yes.
Dwight Thomas
Yes
Bob Carter
I support protecting species at risk and their habitats. I regularly attend the Enviro Café with the goal of learning more about these organizations and their efforts. The protection of species at risk and their habitats requires the efforts of all of us.
Rob Luke
No reply
Ward 2
Pam Sayne
Yes I support the protection of species at risk. The problem is the incremental exceptions accepted as proposals come to Council, one small exception at a time. There is no line to say how many small changes are too many or too much. (Joe did it, why can’t Sally?) This flaw in our planning, and in municipal and provincial planning generally, concerns me.
Mike Grozelle
No reply
Ward 3
Russ Duhaime
No reply
Jean Neville
Yes
Scientists say that we are in the sixth mass extinction of plants and animals. Differing from the
other five extinctions, this one is caused by us through loss of habitat, introduction of exotic
species and climate change. Haliburton County is home to several known species at risk.
From bats and turtles to Butternut trees and American Ginseng the list is a getting longer as
Climate Change alters our living environment. A list of the identified species can be found on
the Haliburton Land Trust website https://www.haliburtonlandtrust.ca/wildlife/species-at-risk.
If elected, do you commit supporting the efforts made by several local organizations to
protect species at risk and their habitat?
YES or NO
Comments
Mayor
Brent Devolin
Yes, I will continue to support local organizations like Haliburton Highlands Outdoors Association (HHOA), Coalition of Haliburton Property Owners Association (CHA), Haliburton Highlands Land Trust (HHLT), Haliburton Highlands Field Naturalists(HHFN), Ducks Unlimited(DU), Environment Haliburton(EH), and many other smaller coalitions of the public that work to achieve habitat protection and protection of species at risk. This support takes many forms, with the County directly funding the HHOA in support of their hatchery activities, while Minden Hills co-manages Snowden Park with HHFN. We also receive input from any, and all these groups on matters considered by the councils on which we serve. We are grateful for their volunteer efforts employed in support of the organizations to which they belong, and the expertise that possess that becomes part of a local discussion on policy and direction.
Wayne Hancock
Yes - This goes without saying, We must do all we can to protect all species. The cry of the whip-poor-will should never be lost for one, as is the same with all others. We must protect these so our future descendants can hear and see what we have heard and seen.
Jarrett Campbell
No reply
Deputy Mayor
Lisa Schell
No reply
Councillor at Large
Ron Nesbitt
No reply
John Teljeur
I recognize the need of all levels of government as well as the public to play a more active role in protecting species that are at risk. In a lot of cases, there is a general lack of understanding of the issues and the roles we can play to change outcomes and the realities of our inaction. I would be open to discussing measures the municipality could undertake in supporting habitat preservation.
Ward 1
Clayton Cameron
No reply
Jennifer Hughey
Yes. Would anyone actually say no to this? It is absolutely imperative to support the efforts already made and in motion to protect species and their habitats. My feelings toward the environment are laid out in the last three answers provided, in that we need to respect the space we share with all species. The initiatives in place by organizations like the Haliburton Highlands Land Trust and EH! help establish an attitude and way of thinking that the municipality can adhere to and ask about, in the event there are questions about the how or why. I always encourage anyone that is unsure, to visit the link you have provided or to read more about the conservation options available to us. Yes, I would commit to supporting the efforts already in place to protect species at risk and their habitats.
Richard Bradley
Yes.
Dwight Thomas
Yes
Bob Carter
I support protecting species at risk and their habitats. I regularly attend the Enviro Café with the goal of learning more about these organizations and their efforts. The protection of species at risk and their habitats requires the efforts of all of us.
Rob Luke
No reply
Ward 2
Pam Sayne
Yes I support the protection of species at risk. The problem is the incremental exceptions accepted as proposals come to Council, one small exception at a time. There is no line to say how many small changes are too many or too much. (Joe did it, why can’t Sally?) This flaw in our planning, and in municipal and provincial planning generally, concerns me.
Mike Grozelle
No reply
Ward 3
Russ Duhaime
No reply
Jean Neville
Yes
7) Shorelines:
Natural shorelines are in serious retreat clear across Haliburton County. Healthy shorelines,
with a minimum of 75% of their original natural vegetation intact, are not only essential to
maintain healthy lakes and high levels of water quality, they are central to the economic health
of the entire County.
The recently completed Coalition of Haliburton Property Owners’ Associations (CHA) 4-year,
60 waterbody “Love Your Lake” assessment closely examined 12,000 waterfront properties
encompassing some 1000km of shoreline and concluded that fully 92% of Haliburton Lakes
failed to meet the 75% natural shoreline standard.
If elected, what are you prepared to help stop the decline of natural shorelines and
encourage the renaturalization efforts required to bring us back to the 75% natural
standard essential to protecting the health of Haliburton’s Lakes?
Comment
Mayor
Brent Devolin
I am fully supportive of all efforts to achieve a 75% natural shoreline naturalization as a minimum policy goal in the endeavour to protect water quality in our lakes and rivers. Education, collaboration and by-laws will all contribute to sustained direction in the goal of this standard.
Wayne Hancock
I not only support the proposed shoreline bylaw, but I also would consider replanting of natural species in areas that have been cleared. This is an issue of not only shade, but bank stabilization and clean water. We must encourage through our political system that we get back to 75% natural shoreline standard. One opportunity I would like to introduce is a possible tax grant incentive to have property owners rehabilitate their shoreline. With this, I believe we could offer professional guidance to ensure it is completed properly. This is just one of many ideas that would help.
Jarrett Campbell
No reply
Deputy Mayor
Lisa Schell
No reply
Councillor at Large
Ron Nesbitt
No reply
John Teljeur
There is a lot more that can be done to educate landowners to the value of shoreline preservation on protecting their quality of their water and the affect it has on their health and investment. Without healthy lakes, we lose one of if not the best reason for living here. It would have a dramatic effect on our property values, our tourism industry and the businesses that rely on them.
I applaud the “Love your lake” project. The results were an eye opener and point to the need for more education on property owners as to their role in a healthy lake and ecosystem. As a staunch advocate for tourism and its economic benefits, it’s critical that we have healthy lakes. I would support measures that would focus on educating property owners as to measures they should be taking to contribute to a healthy ecosystem/lakes. I believe a lot of land owners don’t know the issue and impacts of their actions.
Ward 1
Clayton Cameron
No reply
Jennifer Hughey
Yes. Ninety-two percent is a staggering and disappointing number. In preparation for speeches to Lake Associations, I did much research on the lake health of the bodies of water in and around the county and yes, I am very prepared to support revitalization and help stop the decline of natural shorelines. It is only prudent that Haliburton County be working closely with the CHA, as should every municipality, to gain more information as to how they can enact policies at the municipal level to maintain healthy lakes and a high quality of water – because isn’t that what draws the tourism? Which, as noted, is central to the economic health of the township and County as a whole. While a sandy beach is attractive and may increase your property value, now, in the future, lack of natural shoreline and natural vegetation ultimately means slow degradation of the property’s green space and eventually, a decrease in property value when it comes to lake health and environmental protection.
Richard Bradley
Yes. While I do have a deck and a dock I have always tried to maintain as natural a shoreline as possible and would certainly encourage others do to the same and would support sharing information through the municipal website or other delivery methods.
Dwight Thomas
Without doubt, the 92% quoted is alarming. But I will have to read the pertinent documentation from various government levels and concerned citizen groups to have a thorough overview before making a responsible decision.
Bob Carter
One of my prime motivations for getting involved in Council is my passion for the health of our lakes. Shorelines are an integral part of that. As President of the Lake Kashagawigamog Organization I know that we have been strong supporters of the CHA and the Love Your Lake program. Our organization assisted homeowners who made the commitment to return their shorelines to a natural state.
We have worked to support the CHA in pressuring the County to change their by-laws to protect shorelines. We, along with other lake associations, monitor all development on the lakes with a view to protect shorelines.
We also educate and encourage people around the lake to protect the shorelines. This year we put in buoys in addition to speed signs to help reduce wakes that cause shoreline erosion.
I will work with and pressure all levels of government, the CHA, FOCA, the CEWF and residents to preserve and protect our lakes.
Rob Luke
No reply
Ward 2
Pam Sayne
Yes. This is important research and work being done, led by the CHA. With staff and the assistance of CHA, I developed a pamphlet on shore line protection to be handed out with each application on shore line properties for Minden Hills. Often people do not know how their small projects accumulate to destroy what we would like to pass down to generations. The recent Algae Bloom on Big Brother Lake is a case in point.
Mike Grozelle
No reply
Ward 3
Russ Duhaime
No reply
Jean Neville
I am awed by the work that has been done by CHA this year and commit totally to this project. Education blitz and door to door visits need to happen for buy in by many people. Real estate businesses need to be made to have new water front residents take mandatory courses on what is required for them to protect this natural resource. Heavy fines for non compliance via a body (CHA) that I believe is expert in this. And upheld by the County.
Natural shorelines are in serious retreat clear across Haliburton County. Healthy shorelines,
with a minimum of 75% of their original natural vegetation intact, are not only essential to
maintain healthy lakes and high levels of water quality, they are central to the economic health
of the entire County.
The recently completed Coalition of Haliburton Property Owners’ Associations (CHA) 4-year,
60 waterbody “Love Your Lake” assessment closely examined 12,000 waterfront properties
encompassing some 1000km of shoreline and concluded that fully 92% of Haliburton Lakes
failed to meet the 75% natural shoreline standard.
If elected, what are you prepared to help stop the decline of natural shorelines and
encourage the renaturalization efforts required to bring us back to the 75% natural
standard essential to protecting the health of Haliburton’s Lakes?
Comment
Mayor
Brent Devolin
I am fully supportive of all efforts to achieve a 75% natural shoreline naturalization as a minimum policy goal in the endeavour to protect water quality in our lakes and rivers. Education, collaboration and by-laws will all contribute to sustained direction in the goal of this standard.
Wayne Hancock
I not only support the proposed shoreline bylaw, but I also would consider replanting of natural species in areas that have been cleared. This is an issue of not only shade, but bank stabilization and clean water. We must encourage through our political system that we get back to 75% natural shoreline standard. One opportunity I would like to introduce is a possible tax grant incentive to have property owners rehabilitate their shoreline. With this, I believe we could offer professional guidance to ensure it is completed properly. This is just one of many ideas that would help.
Jarrett Campbell
No reply
Deputy Mayor
Lisa Schell
No reply
Councillor at Large
Ron Nesbitt
No reply
John Teljeur
There is a lot more that can be done to educate landowners to the value of shoreline preservation on protecting their quality of their water and the affect it has on their health and investment. Without healthy lakes, we lose one of if not the best reason for living here. It would have a dramatic effect on our property values, our tourism industry and the businesses that rely on them.
I applaud the “Love your lake” project. The results were an eye opener and point to the need for more education on property owners as to their role in a healthy lake and ecosystem. As a staunch advocate for tourism and its economic benefits, it’s critical that we have healthy lakes. I would support measures that would focus on educating property owners as to measures they should be taking to contribute to a healthy ecosystem/lakes. I believe a lot of land owners don’t know the issue and impacts of their actions.
Ward 1
Clayton Cameron
No reply
Jennifer Hughey
Yes. Ninety-two percent is a staggering and disappointing number. In preparation for speeches to Lake Associations, I did much research on the lake health of the bodies of water in and around the county and yes, I am very prepared to support revitalization and help stop the decline of natural shorelines. It is only prudent that Haliburton County be working closely with the CHA, as should every municipality, to gain more information as to how they can enact policies at the municipal level to maintain healthy lakes and a high quality of water – because isn’t that what draws the tourism? Which, as noted, is central to the economic health of the township and County as a whole. While a sandy beach is attractive and may increase your property value, now, in the future, lack of natural shoreline and natural vegetation ultimately means slow degradation of the property’s green space and eventually, a decrease in property value when it comes to lake health and environmental protection.
Richard Bradley
Yes. While I do have a deck and a dock I have always tried to maintain as natural a shoreline as possible and would certainly encourage others do to the same and would support sharing information through the municipal website or other delivery methods.
Dwight Thomas
Without doubt, the 92% quoted is alarming. But I will have to read the pertinent documentation from various government levels and concerned citizen groups to have a thorough overview before making a responsible decision.
Bob Carter
One of my prime motivations for getting involved in Council is my passion for the health of our lakes. Shorelines are an integral part of that. As President of the Lake Kashagawigamog Organization I know that we have been strong supporters of the CHA and the Love Your Lake program. Our organization assisted homeowners who made the commitment to return their shorelines to a natural state.
We have worked to support the CHA in pressuring the County to change their by-laws to protect shorelines. We, along with other lake associations, monitor all development on the lakes with a view to protect shorelines.
We also educate and encourage people around the lake to protect the shorelines. This year we put in buoys in addition to speed signs to help reduce wakes that cause shoreline erosion.
I will work with and pressure all levels of government, the CHA, FOCA, the CEWF and residents to preserve and protect our lakes.
Rob Luke
No reply
Ward 2
Pam Sayne
Yes. This is important research and work being done, led by the CHA. With staff and the assistance of CHA, I developed a pamphlet on shore line protection to be handed out with each application on shore line properties for Minden Hills. Often people do not know how their small projects accumulate to destroy what we would like to pass down to generations. The recent Algae Bloom on Big Brother Lake is a case in point.
Mike Grozelle
No reply
Ward 3
Russ Duhaime
No reply
Jean Neville
I am awed by the work that has been done by CHA this year and commit totally to this project. Education blitz and door to door visits need to happen for buy in by many people. Real estate businesses need to be made to have new water front residents take mandatory courses on what is required for them to protect this natural resource. Heavy fines for non compliance via a body (CHA) that I believe is expert in this. And upheld by the County.
8) Lake Health:
In 1990, Ontario passed the “Lakes and Rivers Improvement Act” to address the health of our
deteriorating waterways. Today, un-inspected septic systems, wetland and shoreline
development, and increased water temperature pose a real and significant threat to lake
health.
Lake health is vital to the survival of our natural environment, and to the economic
development upon which Haliburton County has prospered. The likelihood of a blue-green
algae outbreak for instance, could have detrimental impacts on human and environmental
health- contaminating our air, and drinking water.
If elected, will you support implementing measures to protect the water in our lakes and
streams with measures such as:
a) Implementing and enforcing procedures to ensure all septic systems in the
County are monitored and working properly? YES or NO
Mayor
Brent Devolin
Yes
Wayne Hancock
Yes - The retrofitting of old septic systems and correcting them is critical to the health of our lakes. The inspection program must be reinforced. In an area, where the property owner cannot afford to upgrade their system, opportunities should again be considered in tax rebates or grants to allow for the upgrade. This ongoing inspection program will ensure systems should be working properly with proper layout and setbacks.
Jarrett Campbell
No reply
Deputy Mayor
Lisa Schell
No reply
Councillor at Large
Ron Nesbitt
No reply
John Teljeur
Inspecting and ensuring that all properties in Haliburton County have an appropriately sized and properly working septic system is absolutely critical and I strongly support it. Minden Hills needs a simple but effective program to inspect systems and one should be in place as soon as possible.
Ward 1
Clayton Cameron
No reply
Jennifer Hughey
Minden Hills is working on their mandatory septic re-inspection program and I believe it’s not something to rush through, and the backlog currently facing the municipality could mean additional partnerships with local institutions like Trent or Fleming. For example, as The Highlander reported in August, Minden is about to become a leading-edge test facility for alternative septic systems. Fleming College’s Centre for Advancement of Water and Wastewater Technologies (CAWT) has asked the township if it can use its wastewater treatment plant as a test site. Companies, not the CAWT, would then be able to have a place to research, test and demonstrate new technologies. Exciting!
Media have published updates on how the Dysart and Highlands East programs are doing and one can already see there is a 50 percent failure rate. That means municipalities do have their work cut out for them and can often focus on this negative point vs. what the actual program is doing to maintain the environment.
Lake health is extremely important to shore line property owners and cottagers. Part of that health is determined and measured by the amount of pollution seeping from septic tanks which is why residents are suggested to have their septic tanks pumped every two to three years to promote optimal shore line health. Why not make it a program and reinforce it? We do the same for many other programs, and this one has lasting effects on all of our lives.
Richard Bradley
Yes. I fully support septic inspections with the least intrusive and inexpensive program that we can fashion while still ensuring that septic systems are functioning properly.
Dwight Thomas
Yes
Bob Carter
As I said in the previous question lake heath is one of my prime motivators in my decision to run for Council. An efficient and effective septic inspection and rehabilitation program will be one of my priorities if elected to Council. It is disappointing that in Haliburton County we will have four different programs. This is critically important for our lakes and wetlands. It is my understanding that we have already had at least one blue-green algae bloom on a Haliburton County Lake this year. Lake health is an integral factor in our community and septic systems are an integral factor in our lake heath.
Rob Luke
No reply
Ward 2
Pam Sayne
Yes. We are fortunate to have an army of volunteer lake stewards in our county to measure and monitor lake quality features. Septic inspections by a qualified professional is a critical component in protecting our lake quality. Many home and cottage owners do not even know how their septic systems work. This does not need to be a costly venture for Municipalities. It is the responsibility of property ownership. It needs to be standardized inspections and reporting requirements. Homeowners could have an option for a private BCIN (Building Code Certification) qualified inspector or hire the Municipality on a cost recovery rate. Reports need to be filed with the Municipality on a regular maintenance basis. If Reports are not filed, then the Municipality has the responsibility to inspect and charge the homeowner.
Mike Grozelle
No reply
Ward 3
Russ Duhaime
No reply
Jean Neville
Yes
b) Consider restricting boat sizes within county boundary lakes to mitigate erosion?
YES or NO
Mayor
Brent Devolin
Yes
Wayne Hancock
Yes - I believe the size of boats allowed on lakes should be restricted. I would like to get the input of the cottagers associations on their considerations on this on each lake.
Jarrett Campbell
No reply
Deputy Mayor
Lisa Schell
No reply
Councillor at Large
Ron Nesbitt
No reply
John Teljeur
I do support the work of lake associations to create no wake areas on county lakes especially in areas susceptible to erosion or habitat damage. I cannot support boat restriction size without some definition and clarity on what that standard would be and how it would be enforced. We already have a number of by laws on the books (excessive noise, property standards/conditions) that aren’t/can’t be enforced due to staffing levels, budgets or a lack of priorities. To create policies and by laws without thoughts to how enforcement can be facilitated are ineffective. I do believe that this is the conversation that has to take place. I would be a strong advocate to determine the best course of action on enforcement issues so that when sensible by laws are put in place; they will have the desired effect.
Ward 1
Clayton Cameron
No reply
Jennifer Hughey
Yes. This is certainly something to think about, considering many of the issues Minden Hills have been facing lately have to do with access to boat launches and property values being affected at the loss of them. It is very important to take the size of the boats into consideration moving forward, if only for a set amount of time to allow for regrowth and to start a revitalization project at the Lake Association Level. Again, partnering with these associations would only allow for greater communication between the associations and council.
Richard Bradley
No. Through my experience with various boats the size of the wave is not necessarily proportional to the size of the boat or PWC; it is how it is operated and weighted.
Dwight Thomas
Speed is also a contributor to shoreline erosion. I’ll need to do more research before I can comment with some level of confidence
Bob Carter
Boat size is not the main issue. Boat speed and boat design are the key factors in creating the wakes that cause the erosion. There are few restrictions on watercraft that are more that 30m from shore so we must educate boaters to reduce their wakes. Lake stewards from Kashagawigamog and Soyers have put together an article which will soon be distributed to help in that education process.
Rob Luke
No reply
Ward 2
Pam Sayne
Shoreline erosion due to boating is also an ongoing concern. Flooding, changing water levels, and lack of proper shoreline plant protection also add to this problem. The size of boat is not the central problem – it is the type of propulsion, wake, number of boats and regard for speed.
Mike Grozelle
No reply
Ward 3
Russ Duhaime
No reply
Jean Neville
Size of boats yes, but also boats with unnecessary noise and also personal water craft that do as much damage as wake boats.
c) Ban the use of fireworks and lead based lures to eliminate lead entering the water
systems? YES or NO
Comments
Mayor
Brent Devolin
I am willing to begin a dialogue with individuals and cottage associations that may have constructive and enforceable solutions to this problem.
Wayne Hancock
On the banning of fireworks, I would like to get more information to understand the full problem and the input from different agencies.
As a final note, I believe the environment and what we do to correct climate change and environmental issues, will be the future for our grandchildren and families. We must leave the environment in better shape than it is now.
Jarrett Campbell
No reply
Deputy Mayor
Lisa Schell
No reply
Councillor at Large
Ron Nesbitt
No reply
John Teljeur
No reply
Ward 1
Clayton Cameron
No reply
Jennifer Hughey
No. Not completely, with the fireworks, but would commit to forming a committee that could provide information to council re: what fireworks and lead-base lures are doing to the water systems and how, at the municipal level, we can work together with EH! and other organizations who are committed to the conservation of our water systems. Even, so far as, soliciting research from institutions and other councils on what they have done with regards to these issues. I am a big fan of case studies and best practices, so I would encourage the new council to read up on what lead-based lures and fireworks are doing to our municipality and encourage that committee to look into alternatives. Helping the environment should be part of the government’s mandate at any level.
Richard Bradley
Yes to lead base lures and Yes to banning lead in Fireworks.
I have asked our new Premier Doug Ford to help Minden change the mandate of the Trent/Severn water way to flood avoidance and mitigation to be the primary goal and not to make sure the waterway remains navigable from early May to late October. Doug Ford gave me his word that he would help Minden, by putting pressure on the Federal Government, to change the mandate so that our managed waterway remains one of our greatest assets and not something we fear every spring.
Dwight Thomas
I do not endorse a total ban on fireworks but rather a limited use policy which Minden Hills has in place. I need far more information on lead-based lures to comment.
Bob Carter
I favour restricting fireworks and we currently have it in our by-laws that their use is limited. However, widespread usage continues. I support the restriction of lead entering the water but the practical control of that will be difficult to mandate and enforce.
Rob Luke
No reply
Ward 2
Pam Sayne
Yes, but it is not just the lead lures. We are finding the plastic microbeads from lures in our water also. Mountain Lake has done a great deal of research on this and should be included in this discussion. I laughed when my grandson, Kienan (soon to be 4), caught a large fish with an earth worm and his dad (with the fancy lures) did not catch anything. Youth! They know.
I have a cottage on Black Lake that has had July 1st fireworks since I can remember. Boats head out, the applause circles the lake and it is an annual social event. One of my two dogs are severely disturbed by it. I am not in favour of an all-out ban currently. I need more information. I do not support the general use of fireworks which can also be a fire and safety hazard.
Mike Grozelle
No reply
Ward 3
Russ Duhaime
No reply
Jean Neville
Yes. Absolute ban on fireworks as well as back lots within so many metres of waterfront. Nesting of loons is drastically impacted by proximal fireworks especially July. Encourage donations to Municipal fireworks in a safe and high/ dry and distant location.
In 1990, Ontario passed the “Lakes and Rivers Improvement Act” to address the health of our
deteriorating waterways. Today, un-inspected septic systems, wetland and shoreline
development, and increased water temperature pose a real and significant threat to lake
health.
Lake health is vital to the survival of our natural environment, and to the economic
development upon which Haliburton County has prospered. The likelihood of a blue-green
algae outbreak for instance, could have detrimental impacts on human and environmental
health- contaminating our air, and drinking water.
If elected, will you support implementing measures to protect the water in our lakes and
streams with measures such as:
a) Implementing and enforcing procedures to ensure all septic systems in the
County are monitored and working properly? YES or NO
Mayor
Brent Devolin
Yes
Wayne Hancock
Yes - The retrofitting of old septic systems and correcting them is critical to the health of our lakes. The inspection program must be reinforced. In an area, where the property owner cannot afford to upgrade their system, opportunities should again be considered in tax rebates or grants to allow for the upgrade. This ongoing inspection program will ensure systems should be working properly with proper layout and setbacks.
Jarrett Campbell
No reply
Deputy Mayor
Lisa Schell
No reply
Councillor at Large
Ron Nesbitt
No reply
John Teljeur
Inspecting and ensuring that all properties in Haliburton County have an appropriately sized and properly working septic system is absolutely critical and I strongly support it. Minden Hills needs a simple but effective program to inspect systems and one should be in place as soon as possible.
Ward 1
Clayton Cameron
No reply
Jennifer Hughey
Minden Hills is working on their mandatory septic re-inspection program and I believe it’s not something to rush through, and the backlog currently facing the municipality could mean additional partnerships with local institutions like Trent or Fleming. For example, as The Highlander reported in August, Minden is about to become a leading-edge test facility for alternative septic systems. Fleming College’s Centre for Advancement of Water and Wastewater Technologies (CAWT) has asked the township if it can use its wastewater treatment plant as a test site. Companies, not the CAWT, would then be able to have a place to research, test and demonstrate new technologies. Exciting!
Media have published updates on how the Dysart and Highlands East programs are doing and one can already see there is a 50 percent failure rate. That means municipalities do have their work cut out for them and can often focus on this negative point vs. what the actual program is doing to maintain the environment.
Lake health is extremely important to shore line property owners and cottagers. Part of that health is determined and measured by the amount of pollution seeping from septic tanks which is why residents are suggested to have their septic tanks pumped every two to three years to promote optimal shore line health. Why not make it a program and reinforce it? We do the same for many other programs, and this one has lasting effects on all of our lives.
Richard Bradley
Yes. I fully support septic inspections with the least intrusive and inexpensive program that we can fashion while still ensuring that septic systems are functioning properly.
Dwight Thomas
Yes
Bob Carter
As I said in the previous question lake heath is one of my prime motivators in my decision to run for Council. An efficient and effective septic inspection and rehabilitation program will be one of my priorities if elected to Council. It is disappointing that in Haliburton County we will have four different programs. This is critically important for our lakes and wetlands. It is my understanding that we have already had at least one blue-green algae bloom on a Haliburton County Lake this year. Lake health is an integral factor in our community and septic systems are an integral factor in our lake heath.
Rob Luke
No reply
Ward 2
Pam Sayne
Yes. We are fortunate to have an army of volunteer lake stewards in our county to measure and monitor lake quality features. Septic inspections by a qualified professional is a critical component in protecting our lake quality. Many home and cottage owners do not even know how their septic systems work. This does not need to be a costly venture for Municipalities. It is the responsibility of property ownership. It needs to be standardized inspections and reporting requirements. Homeowners could have an option for a private BCIN (Building Code Certification) qualified inspector or hire the Municipality on a cost recovery rate. Reports need to be filed with the Municipality on a regular maintenance basis. If Reports are not filed, then the Municipality has the responsibility to inspect and charge the homeowner.
Mike Grozelle
No reply
Ward 3
Russ Duhaime
No reply
Jean Neville
Yes
b) Consider restricting boat sizes within county boundary lakes to mitigate erosion?
YES or NO
Mayor
Brent Devolin
Yes
Wayne Hancock
Yes - I believe the size of boats allowed on lakes should be restricted. I would like to get the input of the cottagers associations on their considerations on this on each lake.
Jarrett Campbell
No reply
Deputy Mayor
Lisa Schell
No reply
Councillor at Large
Ron Nesbitt
No reply
John Teljeur
I do support the work of lake associations to create no wake areas on county lakes especially in areas susceptible to erosion or habitat damage. I cannot support boat restriction size without some definition and clarity on what that standard would be and how it would be enforced. We already have a number of by laws on the books (excessive noise, property standards/conditions) that aren’t/can’t be enforced due to staffing levels, budgets or a lack of priorities. To create policies and by laws without thoughts to how enforcement can be facilitated are ineffective. I do believe that this is the conversation that has to take place. I would be a strong advocate to determine the best course of action on enforcement issues so that when sensible by laws are put in place; they will have the desired effect.
Ward 1
Clayton Cameron
No reply
Jennifer Hughey
Yes. This is certainly something to think about, considering many of the issues Minden Hills have been facing lately have to do with access to boat launches and property values being affected at the loss of them. It is very important to take the size of the boats into consideration moving forward, if only for a set amount of time to allow for regrowth and to start a revitalization project at the Lake Association Level. Again, partnering with these associations would only allow for greater communication between the associations and council.
Richard Bradley
No. Through my experience with various boats the size of the wave is not necessarily proportional to the size of the boat or PWC; it is how it is operated and weighted.
Dwight Thomas
Speed is also a contributor to shoreline erosion. I’ll need to do more research before I can comment with some level of confidence
Bob Carter
Boat size is not the main issue. Boat speed and boat design are the key factors in creating the wakes that cause the erosion. There are few restrictions on watercraft that are more that 30m from shore so we must educate boaters to reduce their wakes. Lake stewards from Kashagawigamog and Soyers have put together an article which will soon be distributed to help in that education process.
Rob Luke
No reply
Ward 2
Pam Sayne
Shoreline erosion due to boating is also an ongoing concern. Flooding, changing water levels, and lack of proper shoreline plant protection also add to this problem. The size of boat is not the central problem – it is the type of propulsion, wake, number of boats and regard for speed.
Mike Grozelle
No reply
Ward 3
Russ Duhaime
No reply
Jean Neville
Size of boats yes, but also boats with unnecessary noise and also personal water craft that do as much damage as wake boats.
c) Ban the use of fireworks and lead based lures to eliminate lead entering the water
systems? YES or NO
Comments
Mayor
Brent Devolin
I am willing to begin a dialogue with individuals and cottage associations that may have constructive and enforceable solutions to this problem.
Wayne Hancock
On the banning of fireworks, I would like to get more information to understand the full problem and the input from different agencies.
As a final note, I believe the environment and what we do to correct climate change and environmental issues, will be the future for our grandchildren and families. We must leave the environment in better shape than it is now.
Jarrett Campbell
No reply
Deputy Mayor
Lisa Schell
No reply
Councillor at Large
Ron Nesbitt
No reply
John Teljeur
No reply
Ward 1
Clayton Cameron
No reply
Jennifer Hughey
No. Not completely, with the fireworks, but would commit to forming a committee that could provide information to council re: what fireworks and lead-base lures are doing to the water systems and how, at the municipal level, we can work together with EH! and other organizations who are committed to the conservation of our water systems. Even, so far as, soliciting research from institutions and other councils on what they have done with regards to these issues. I am a big fan of case studies and best practices, so I would encourage the new council to read up on what lead-based lures and fireworks are doing to our municipality and encourage that committee to look into alternatives. Helping the environment should be part of the government’s mandate at any level.
Richard Bradley
Yes to lead base lures and Yes to banning lead in Fireworks.
I have asked our new Premier Doug Ford to help Minden change the mandate of the Trent/Severn water way to flood avoidance and mitigation to be the primary goal and not to make sure the waterway remains navigable from early May to late October. Doug Ford gave me his word that he would help Minden, by putting pressure on the Federal Government, to change the mandate so that our managed waterway remains one of our greatest assets and not something we fear every spring.
Dwight Thomas
I do not endorse a total ban on fireworks but rather a limited use policy which Minden Hills has in place. I need far more information on lead-based lures to comment.
Bob Carter
I favour restricting fireworks and we currently have it in our by-laws that their use is limited. However, widespread usage continues. I support the restriction of lead entering the water but the practical control of that will be difficult to mandate and enforce.
Rob Luke
No reply
Ward 2
Pam Sayne
Yes, but it is not just the lead lures. We are finding the plastic microbeads from lures in our water also. Mountain Lake has done a great deal of research on this and should be included in this discussion. I laughed when my grandson, Kienan (soon to be 4), caught a large fish with an earth worm and his dad (with the fancy lures) did not catch anything. Youth! They know.
I have a cottage on Black Lake that has had July 1st fireworks since I can remember. Boats head out, the applause circles the lake and it is an annual social event. One of my two dogs are severely disturbed by it. I am not in favour of an all-out ban currently. I need more information. I do not support the general use of fireworks which can also be a fire and safety hazard.
Mike Grozelle
No reply
Ward 3
Russ Duhaime
No reply
Jean Neville
Yes. Absolute ban on fireworks as well as back lots within so many metres of waterfront. Nesting of loons is drastically impacted by proximal fireworks especially July. Encourage donations to Municipal fireworks in a safe and high/ dry and distant location.