December Report

Dear neighbours:

This marks the first full-fledged report to you, the ratepayers and residents of Hinchinbrooke District. It is my hope to post regular reports in order to let you know about what is being done on your behalf, as well as my activities in the township.

On December 2nd, your new council formally took office. Despite the sudden snow squalls, a brave few came to Soldiers’ Memorial Hall in Sharbot Lake for the inaugural meeting. Among the orders of business was the selection of a representative to join Mayor Fran on Frontenac County Council for the next four years, as well as the election of a Deputy Mayor for 2015. My congratulations to Councillor Tom Dewey from Kennebec District who will serve on County Council, as well as Councillor Jamie Riddell of Olden District, who takes on the Deputy Mayor’s job for the upcoming year.

Your council also determined assignments for various committees and board. I will be serving with Councillor Riddell on the township’s Economic Development Committee, and will be joining Councillor Sherry Whan (Oso District) on the board for the Frontenac Community Arena. I will likely need to buy a new pair of skates!

On December 6th, I had the privilege to attend the first Community Christmas Potluck held at Piccadilly Hall. Sharon Shepherd, along with Tina Leonard, Laurie Love and a committed group of volunteers, made the event a great success. Beyond the food, the beautifully decorated tree, and the packed hall, we enjoyed carolers (in traditional 19th century dress), horse drawn wagon rides, and a visit from Santa. Mayor Fran and my fellow Hinchinbrooke Councillor Phil Smith were there to share in this community celebration. The crowd, the fellowship, and the enthusiasm showed that Piccadilly Hall is, and can continue to be, the heart of this part of the township. It certainly helps make the case for those of us who want to guarantee its future.

December 7th was the annual Santa Claus Parade in Parham and Tichborne. Along with Mayor Fran, Deputy Mayor Riddell, and fellow councillors Tom Dewey, Cindy Kelsey and Victor Heese, we joined in this well attended event. Firefighters from all four districts came together, and were joined by colleagues from Howe Island and groups from the community. The crowds along the route were great, and willing to brave cold noses and toes to get a glimpse of St. Nick. At the end, the Parham Fire Hall was standing room only as chili, hot dogs, and hot chocolate were on offer. Once again, District 4 Chief Bernie Quinn and his team did a fantastic job putting everything together. Only the night before our township’s firefighters had their annual banquet, and this Saturday the Hinchinbrooke team will be back out spreading holiday cheer with caroling at the Oddfellows Hall in Parham. A huge thank you for all they do for us!

December 9th Council met for its first full meeting, and it was a busy one. A number of important decisions were made – most notably regarding the replacement of the bridge in Sharbot Lake that spans over the old K & P rail bed. All of us took particular note of the comments and suggestions that came from the Open House on November 20th. The decision to replace the bridge with a level crossing was made as the best means of balancing the twin concerns of safety for those using the trail and the road, as well as the cost to you, the ratepayer and resident.

The lowering of the street will provide better line of sight, particularly for those who may be pulling out onto 38 from Dickson Crescent. Together with the adjustment of the speed limit leading through the village and up to Granite Ridge Educational Centre, safety to motorists and prospective trail users factored into the decision. As a reference, I can tell you that between Verona and Godfrey there are no fewer than four level crossings for the K & P Trail – 3 of them on Road 38 where the posted speed limit is 80 kms / hour. Also, pending funding support from the province, the cost of the approved option is at least $20,000 below that of the next lowest alternative. In addition, the Township will realize savings well into the future with reduced costs for monitoring and maintenance of what the provincial government defines as a ‘bridge.’

At a time when policing costs are going up, and the cost of maintaining infrastructure is steadily going higher, we must be careful of what we spend if we hope to have taxes at a level affordable for you and your family. While it may not be the preferred option for some, it is, on balance, the one that your Council feels will address everyone’s needs and concerns.

At this time, on behalf of my family, I want to wish all of you a Merry Christmas and the very best of the holiday season.