Before we get into the notes I just wanted to make a point of clarification as I would like to avoid miscommunication and information being taken out of context.
The notes below are my interpretation of what I hear at the meetings for the time I am present and they include matters which I think the public will want to be aware of.
These notes are not fully inclusive of all items on the agenda and are not verbatim notes. If you have questions or want clarification about anything I have noted I would definitely recommend reading the official agenda first provided below as well as reading the official meeting minutes when they are available.
My intent for these posts is to keep the community informed regarding what is happening in town as I know it can be difficult to attend meetings and read through all of the agenda’s and minutes.
Jan 13th, 2023
Click here for agenda
Strategy Development and Budget Meeting
Housing
Town Planner- Discussed and outlined the cost to growth and development. Also, discussed that judging from the past residents have pushed back on developments.
Mayor Soloman- Asked what are the needs of the community and the residents. We need to consider needs of all residents and demographics within town.
Deputy Mayor Rentsch-Discussed how we can have developers build more accommodating and affordable housing. Small units with 1 or 2 bedrooms. Also commented on homelessness and about affordable rental options. Mix of owned and rental units.
Councillor Latam- 23 Mill street needs a plan by the end of the term, Staffing for parks and recreation, Dog park and general recreation. Parks that the developer is required to build how do we may these better. A fully accessible park, basketball, more activity spaces but where do we build it?
Councillor Dart- Nothing specific just making sure we reserve some space for recreation for the younger children. Pointed out that a lot of people moving in have children, asked about UGDSB school plans for elementary and high school in town. Town Staff said the UGDSB has a session once or twice a year that invites municipalities. Also, brought up the current busing issues.
Councillor Jonker-Referenced the Grand Valley profile from the 2021 census and that there is a large ratio of kids. Asked the staff/councillors whether they would feel comfortable with their kids walking to the different program and amenities in town at the 10-12 age if the town increased larger in size.
Environmental
Town has a tree canopy policy as well as an electric vehicle focus when applicable for municipal vehicle purchases.
Mayor Soloman-Flood Plain and Flooding in the town.
Deputy Mayor Renstch- Agrees with planting more trees. Wellington County has a good tree planting program.
Councillor Jonker-Expressed about whether the tree canopy policy also involves protecting large Maples, Oaks etc..
Councillor Latam- Planting more trees especially near the storm water management ponds in the newer subdivision and encouraging Developers to plant more trees when subdivisions are built.
Councillor Dart- Agreed with Councillor Latams thoughts. Wondered about a tree planting day for the community. Commented on the Electric fleet vehicle plan and has concerns about charging and winter weather.
Recreation
-Councillor Latam- High Priority to have an public open house for Recreation needs.
Emergency Services
-General Concerns brought up about as the town grows the needs on our fire department would be more including potentially a ladder truck.
-Police- resident concerns about more presence. Councillor Latam feels we need to be focused this term on speed enforcement and a potential crosswalk. Councillor Dart suggested maybe Auxiliary Officers as a possibility for more of a presence. CAO responded that unfortunately there is not enough Auxiliary officers within the OPP and in this area.
End of my notes as I had to leave the meeting at this point.
Disclaimer- These are my personal notes from the meeting. The purpose of these notes is to give an update on what is happening around the Town of Grand Valley. If you would like to view the official agenda and minutes you can find that here.
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