County Council Highlights - May 14, 2024

Council’s Green Light: 2024 Community Grant Program Allocations Approved

Elgin County Council unanimously approved the recommendations put forth by the Rural Initiatives and Planning Advisory Committee (RIPA) for the 2024 Community Grant Program (CGP) allocations. The CGP, divided into Community Services and Festivals and Events streams, received a total allocation of $74,358 from the County’s 2024 budget.

This year, the CGP saw a total of 29 applications, out of which 9 did not meet the eligibility criteria or scored below the required threshold of 60%. However, 20 applications were deemed eligible for funding, with a combined request totaling $147,500. The allocation process involved a rigorous scoring system by each committee member and the utilization of a weighted formula to determine proposed allocations, ensuring fairness and objectivity throughout the process.

The approved allocations mark a significant step in supporting community initiatives and events throughout Elgin County, reflecting Council’s commitment to fostering growth and development in the region. The proposed allocations will now be implemented, providing vital support to organizations and programs enhancing the County’s cultural and social landscape.

Charting Tomorrow: Elgin County Council Adopts New Official Plan

Elgin County Council’s decision to adopt the new Official Plan marks a significant achievement in the County’s planning journey. After a thorough review and consultation process from Winter 2021 to Spring 2024, Council has approved By-Law No. 24-17, reflecting the culmination of collaborative efforts involving County staff, stakeholders, and community members. Through a meticulous approach informed by expert reports and public consultations, the Official Plan has been carefully crafted. It aims to address the evolving needs and aspirations of Elgin County’s residents while ensuring compliance with statutory requirements and alignment with the Provincial Policy Statement.

As Elgin County awaits provincial approval, anticipation mounts for the implementation of the new Official Plan. With a clear focus on promoting economic vitality, environmental stewardship, and social equity, the plan serves as a comprehensive blueprint for guiding future growth and infrastructure initiatives. By fostering a cohesive vision that balances progress with preservation, Elgin County is poised to navigate the complexities of urbanization and demographic shifts while safeguarding its unique identity and quality of life for generations to come.

Champion of Health Recruitment: Elgin County Council Recognizes the Retirement of Cheryl Fish

Elgin County Council took a moment to recognize the retirement of Cheryl Fish, acknowledging her dedicated service to health recruitment in Elgin County and St. Thomas. Warden Ed Ketchabaw presented Cheryl with a certificate on behalf of the Council and staff of Elgin County, expressing gratitude for her years of commitment and contribution to the community.

Elgin County’s Fiscal Transparency: Council Reviews Q1 Procurement Activity Report

Elgin County Council reviewed a Procurement Activity Report for the period spanning January 1, 2024 to March 31, 2024. The report, compiled by the Manager of Procurement & Risk, summarizes the contracts awarded during this timeframe, adhering to the County’s Procurement Policy. Noteworthy inclusions are contracts exceeding $15,000, as per policy requirements. The report details contract awards, amendments, and renewals, ensuring transparency and accountability in financial matters. The complete list of procurement activity can be found in Appendix A of the report.

Elgin County’s Resilience Roadmap: Achieving 2023 Emergency Management Compliance

Elgin County Council received a 2023 Emergency Management Compliance report from the Manager of Emergency Management & Elgin-Middlesex Regional Fire School. The report highlighted the successful fulfillment of all legislative requirements mandated by the Emergency Management and Civil Protections Act (EMCPA). Despite personnel challenges, Elgin County met all compliance requirements, ensuring a robust Emergency Management (EM) program. Looking ahead, suggestions provided by the St. Clair Sector EMO Field Officer will enhance the County’s EM program, with proposed updates to by-laws, control group membership, and emergency response plans. The EM department is poised to collaborate with the Program Committee to implement these suggestions, aiming for another year of successful compliance in 2024.

Revitalizing Vital Care: Elgin County’s Land Ambulance Contract with Medavie EMS

Council authorized a single-source contract with Medavie EMS Ontario Inc. for the provision of Land Ambulance Services spanning January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2026, with an optional three-year extension. The decision, based on a report from the Director of Legal Services, ensures the continuity of essential emergency medical services within the County and the City of St. Thomas. Negotiations culminated in a revised agreement that maintains service standards while introducing crucial updates, including mandatory reporting provisions and liability caps. With financial implications accounted for in the 2024 budget, this strategic partnership underscores Elgin County’s commitment to efficient and reliable emergency response services for its residents.

Raising Awareness: Elgin County to Raise Flags for Pride and Childhood Cancer Awareness

In response to heartfelt requests from the community, Elgin County Council has agreed to two significant flag raisings, each reflecting the County’s commitment to inclusivity and support for important causes. On Tuesday, August 6, 2024, at 10 a.m., Elgin County Council will raise the Pride flag to kick off Pride Week 2024. This initiative, championed by Elgin County Pride, aims to promote Rainbow education, awareness, and acceptance within the community. Members of Council will be in attendance, reading a proclamation to underscore the County’s steadfast support for diversity and inclusion.

Additionally, in recognition of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month (CCAM), Elgin County Council will raise a flag at the Elgin County Heritage Centre on Tuesday, September 10, 2024. CCAM serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by children battling cancer and their families. Spearheaded by Childcan, this initiative seeks to elevate childhood cancer as a health priority, fund research, and provide essential family support. By commemorating CCAM, Council stands united with those affected by childhood cancer, honoring the memory of those who have passed, and advocating for a future where childhood cancer is no longer the number one cause of death by disease for Canadian children.

Driving Safety Forward: Elgin County Takes Action on Plank Road Concerns

Following a request from the Municipality of Bayham, Elgin County Council has taken action to address traffic safety concerns along Plank Road. The initiative stems from correspondence received from a concerned resident regarding park improvements and parking issues in Vienna. After considering the resident’s letter, the Municipality of Bayham passed a resolution urging Elgin County to explore options for enhancing traffic safety on Plank Road from Edison to Oak.

In response to Bayham’s request, Elgin County Council directed engineering services staff to investigate a variety of potential traffic safety measures along the designated stretch of Plank Road. Council has requested a comprehensive report to address these concerns and ensure the safety and accessibility of public spaces in Vienna. Further updates on the progress of this investigation will be provided at a future Council meeting.

For the complete May 14, 2024 Agenda Package, please visit the following link: County Council Agenda Package