Nakina Ward Spring Newsletter

Dear Citizens,

There is little doubt that most of the questions and inquiries I

receive regularly (from far and near) are related to the Ring of Fire developments. Optimism abounds as many key indicators suggest that this economic opportunity is going to impact significantly on the regional economy. The recent turnout of the large public gathering at the information meeting held in Nakina on February 18^th bears out that the area residents are keenly interested in these developments.

That Canada is seen as rounding the corner on the recession, the strength of the loonie on international markets, the recovery and improved stability on the Canadian stock markets and current commodity pricing, are some indicators which will positively and directly influence mineral development and investment in the Ring of Fire.

Significant public announcements at Queen’s Park all pave the way for the Ring of Fire activities to advance including:

• The appointment by the Ontario government in the 2010 budget speech of A Ring of Fire Secretariat to lead our collective efforts to advance the area’s economic promise
• The province announcing the reduction of electricity prices by almost 25 per cent for large industrial users
• The announcement by the province contained in the budget announcements that “We’re investing $45 million over three years for a new skills training program to help Aboriginal Peoples and northern Ontarians benefit from jobs in the Ring of Fire region.”

Several weeks ago, I was uncertain that the key provincial ministers may not understand the extent of the opportunities in the Ring of Fire. I am more reassured but I’ll continue to influence when opportunities arise. Watch for a new sign along Highway 584 with a logo (similar to one above), “The Ring of Fire Highway.”

I was pleased that Council supported the motion to help promote Greenstone by tagging our location to the Ring of Fire area and related developments. We will all be hearing lots of continuing ‘buzz’ about the developments to our north. Our Council is taking steps to meet with First Nations leaders. A meeting is planned for next week with Chief Sonny Gagnon and His Council. While at NOMA in Marathon, there was an opportunity to speak with both the Minister Gravelle and His Deputy Minister. It was an opportunity to describe expectations face to face by stating, “the potential smelting of the extracted ore must occur in Northwestern Ontario and that the energy requirements must be in place to enable industry to be competitive and to sustain a refining operation in Northwestern Ontario.” While at NOMA in Marathon last week, the following Resolution reads in part: “that the Little Jackfish hydro-electric project be designed to provide sufficient power to upgrade the existing line from Beardmore to Longlac TS and Nakina and to power the future line to the Ring of Fire.” Nakina couldn’t be in a better location.

Council also recently gave full support for the following motion: “THAT the Municipality of Greenstone partner with the City of Thunder Bay and Partners for an Economic Impact Assessment of the Development and Operations of the McFaulds Lake Chrome Project (Ring of Fire area) to be conducted by Doyletech Corporation of Ottawa.”

On April 29th, I attended a presentation in Thunder Bay with Globe and Mail Journalist and 2009 winner of Canada’s National Business Book Award - Gordon Pitts. The Key Topics were:

· Canada’s Global Economic Outlook - After the Global Recession

· Strategic Advantages of NWO to the Global Economy

· Natural Resources – Key to Growth

· NWO in 2015 - Critical to Ontario’s Future

Council supported a motion I introduced to table the motion that would have sought support to accept and award a tender for Airport Operation Services at the R. Elmer Ruddick Nakina Airport for one year to the Thunder Bay Airport Authority. In January, I requested information related to the operations and management of our airports. Council has not yet had the opportunity to be fully review this material. Of primary importance to me, is that the operations at our airports and particularly at the ER Ruddick airport, not be compromised and that they will serve well, all of the carriers and businesses using this airport.

Cost estimates are being prepared for an “Airside Business Park Development” at the Elmer Ruddick Airport consisting of 6 commercial lots. Inquiries have already been received from business considering leasing lots at both municipal airports. I am optimistic that Council will support this development in Nakina. This capital project is in the mix of all the capital considerations. Council has now met for three days in budget deliberations.

An A.C.A.P. announcement related to the E. Ruddick Airport should be made within the next few weeks. “THAT on the recommendation of the Airports Manager and with the approval of the Director of Public Services, an invoice for EBA Engineering Consultants Ltd. for the Airports Capital Assistance Program (ACAP) Application and Preliminary Design for the Runway Rehabilitation, Lighting Upgrade and Auxiliary Power Generator for the R. Elmer Ruddick Nakina Airport in the amount of $19,800.00 plus GST be approved for payment as per By-Law10-05.” If successful, Transport Canada will cover 100% of the estimated $3,946,939.00 project costs.

A Tourism Intern is expected to be hired as the interviewing process is now complete. A recommendation to Council is expected to arise from the Tourism Steering Committee before the end of this week. 50% of the wage and benefits of this position are coming from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation. As chair of the committee, I will be encouraging a transition from a one year internship, to a longer term position. A video shoot in each of Greenstone’s wards, will help to better profile our municipal assets and events through the production of a Greenstone DVD and a series of television programs on major US television networks through the engagement of the “DimeStore Fisherman”. A tentative itinerary for a 5 day Greenstone video shoot from August 13^th -17^th has been prepared.

Approved by Council and on the recommendation of Nakina Sector Fire Chief Mike McCool, Byron C. Magiskan and Martin Lavoie have be appointed as firefighters with the Nakina Volunteer Fire Department effective March 8, 2010. The community appreciates your services.

The Northern Ontario Energy Credit will provide relief from higher energy costs incurred by low- to middle-income residents of northern Ontario with a new annual credit of up to $130 for a single person and up to $200 for families (including single parents). The credit will be reduced for single persons with adjusted net income of over $35000 ($45000 for families). The first 2 payments will be made in the fall of 2010.

The consideration of adopting a ‘Minimum Attendance Policy’ pertaining to Childcare at our Day Care facilities has resulted in strong support from Council not to adopt the policy at this time and to put it on the back burner. The draft policy came forward again to Council in April that described a set of processes that would result in the closing of a day care if the minimum attendance was not sustained for three consecutive months. At the end of this 3 month period, parents would then be given 60 days notice that the center would close. I was supportive of the decision to not adopt and implement this policy. I anticipate that there will be a continued need for child care services in the near future.

The internet blog, “Greenstone Matters” can be viewed at http://jay--daiter.blogspot.com/ The ward newsletter and other personal posts will also reside at this site. You can easily comment on the posts and your participation is encouraged.

Regards,

Jay Daiter, Nakina Ward Councillor

cc: Mayor Power

"Ring of Fire" Railway Engineers Visiting Nakina

The Council of the Municipality of Greenstone will be holding a

Special Meeting of Council on

Thursday Feb. 18, 2010 at 7:00 p.m.

at the Nakina Community Center.

Doors will open at 6:00 p.m.

The purpose of this meeting is to hear a presentation by

Krech Ojard & Associates,

engineers for the

Far North Railway Project to the Ring of Fire.

This meeting is open to the public and

everyone in Greenstone is welcome to attend.

Regards,

Jay Daiter

Councillor, Nakina Ward

Municipality of Greenstone

January 2010 Ward Newsletter

Dear Citizens,

The New Year marks the beginning of some important initiatives and activities. Of significance to me are the 11 remaining months to works towards the completion of projects that we as a Council have identified, and several aspects of involvement that hold my interest and enthusiasm such as strengthening relationships especially those which will leverage mining-related economic opportunities and ‘tourism’ initiatives’ being lead through a Steering Committee of Council. It was last March during the closing ceremonies of Nakina’s Winter Carnival, that I first spoke publicly about the exploration and related activities in the “Ring of Fire”. The activities to our north have peaked the interest of residents, mining companies, First Nations as well as foreign investors. I have and will continue to better understand how these emerging mineral developments can positively impact on our local economy.

The process is underway regarding the 2010 budget and to that end, input has been provided identifying local road improvements (Main, Center, Ontario, Cordingly), building maintenance at the Nakina Clinic and Heritage Buildings, capital equipment needs, and arena complex and airport improvements. Of particular interest to local residents identified during the community consultations held this past summer, was the request for commercial airport lots to be developed in Nakina. This is the year for this project to carry forward in the context of the activity that is prevalent at the E.R. Ruddick Airport. This capital project has been introduced. Continuing to resource the municipal airports, an A.C.A.P. submission was filed this month for approval totaling in excess of $ 5 M for improvements and upgrades at the E.R. Ruddick Airport. The A.C.A.P. announcements are made in the spring of the year. I have introduced the feasibility considerations of an airport runway extension from 3500’ to 5000’.

Continuing in my role as Chair of the Tourism Steering Committee, we are optimistic that our request for financial assistance from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund (NOHFC), will be approved in the amount of $27, 500. The funding will supplement municipal funding for a new position of a Tourism Events and Attractions Coordinator. The position will be advertized with the committee continuing in their role of identifying and implementing tourism investment strategies. A video shoot in each of Greenstone’s wards, will help to better profile our municipal assets and events through the production of a Greenstone DVD and a series of television programs on major US television networks through the engagement of the “DimeStore Fisherman”. A tentative itinerary for a 5 day video shoot from August 13^th -17^th has been prepared with Jim Hoey being a guest in Nakina during the 25^th Anniversary of the Nakina Bass Derby. Further details of this visit will be described in the local media at a later date.

A series of meetings throughout Greenstone saw Nakina bring out the largest gathering as Matthew Fischer lead a community focus group in Nakina in early December. The input gathered in each of the Wards of Greenstone was collated and presented in a final report to the community at large in mid January. A number of recommendations involving a partnership of G.E.D.C. and the Municipality are described in the “Gap Analysis and Market Study Report”. (complete downloadable copies of the final report and the presentation are available on the GEDC website at:

http://www.gedc.ca/article/greenstone-region-gap-analysis-and-market-study-report-1129.asp)

Again, I want to thank the many residents who came out to provide meaningful and grass roots input reflective of your community. This is a good example of how your input mattered.

On February 3^rd, I will join the Mayor to attend the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting. Of particular interest is the Keynote Speaker at this event, President & C.E.O. Frank Smeenk (KWG Resources and Canada Chrome Corporation). He will be addressing the gathering about Ring of Fire developments especially as his company is one of the major mining players in the Ring of Fire. There is considerable interest mixed with speculation about the impact of foreseeable developments especially due to the proximity of Greenstone.

The matter of energy transmission plans for Northwestern Ontario is of significance to the Greenstone region especially the ability to provide power to the Ring of Fire. It is timely that correspondence from NOMA President, Anne Krassilowsky (Mayor Dryden) and a supporting resolution addressed to all NOMA Members, (dated January 15, 2010) identifies the production, transmission, and distribution of electricity as a key part of the Northwestern Ontario economy. An endorsement from NOMA describing: “that the station (Little Jackfish hydro-electric power plant) and that the plan be modified (at Hydro One’s expense) to provide sufficient power to upgrade the existing line from Beardmore to Longlac and Nakina and to power the future line to the Ring of Fire.” I am supportive of a meeting with the Minister of Energy and Infrastructure while attending the Ontario Good Roads Conference as well as continuing to ensure that MPP, Michael Gravelle, Minister of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry, is fully in tune with this issue.

The start of the New Year introduced not one, but two restaurant choices for local consumers. You can appreciate that I was ‘invited’ to do something about the absence of any place to eat in the latter months. The private business opportunities were quickly pursued given the requirements of opening such a business. This issue which has been addressed through local initiatives is appreciated. It is my hope that the services provided will support the needs of the community and that the community will support the services. As Nakina’s position as a staging area to the Ring of Fire developments becomes more defined, the need for a local restaurant is expected to help the local economy. To those who worked hard to provide this service, I thank you and wish you well in your respective business endeavours.

Leading a Local Incentive Grant application to G.E.D.C. on behalf of the 3 Greenstone Snowmobile Clubs, our application for signage improvements was rewarded with funding for $4398.00 which covered the entire costs of this project. The new banner additions to the large map billboards supported with destination signs will better ensure safer experiences for snowmobilers. The new reflective banners will improve the promotion of the “Greenstone Snowmobiling Loop” as the banners will be visible at night for sledders and motorists travelling through Greenstone.

The Nakina Heritage Building (Train Station) is currently providing available commercial space to the local school board and to the Country Kitchen Restaurant. This Municipally owned building is available for commercial use and residents are encouraged to call me if you know of a business or company who would be interested in leasing available space in the suitable offices located in the Train Station.

The internet blog, “Greenstone Matters” can be viewed at http://jay--daiter.blogspot.com/ The ward newsletter and other personal posts will also reside at this site. You can easily comment on the posts and your participation is encouraged.

Regards,

Jay Daiter, Nakina Ward Councillor

cc: Mayor Power

October / November Ward Newsletter

Dear Citizens,

It’s always about people, or at least it should be. With the declaration of “Local Government Week”, I was welcomed and thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to talk with intermediate students about local government. With an overview of how Municipal governments are organized, there was a focus on citizenship, democracy and how decision-making is influenced. Emphasis was placed on democratic values, and exercising rights and fulfilling responsibilities. In appreciation of their participation and interest, each student was presented with a certificate and a Greenstone Municipal pin. Thank you for the invitation to be a part of the student learning and I wish you every success in establishing your internet forum.

The near completion of Highway 584 will conclude with a final inspection. The highway/road improvements this past year including 584, Highway 643 to Aroland, Airport Road north of Geraldton, and the approach into Nakina have resulted in many happier motorists and safer driving conditions. What a nice ride between Nakina and Geraldton! Last week I met personally with the MTO Contracts Manager and voiced my concerns about the uneven highway surface on Highway 584. Although this is not a municipal project, our residents have waited a long time for the badly needed reconstruction of this section of highway. I will follow up with the Projects Manager regarding the final inspection.

I was delighted to note several references to the continuing developments associated with the “Ring of Fire” mining / exploration activities while at the Thunder Bay Municipal League meeting on October 16^th – 17^th. The engagement of engineering firms to identify potential rail routes, exploration / drilling activity regarding mineralization deposits, road locating, increased air traffic, and bridge construction, are strong indicators that something positive will happen to the north. Nakina has very affordable housing, an employable labour force, is close to the Ring of Fire, has a first rate airport, all of which enable us to be exceptionally well-positioned for this opportunity. These are clearly some exciting developments which I hope come to fruition. The following is an extract of a recent Google search I conducted….

MONTREAL, Sept. 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ - KWG Resources Inc (TSXV: KWG.V) subsidiary Canada Chrome Corporation has engaged Krech Ojard Associates, P.A. of Duluth, Minnesota to provide engineering services for the construction of a new 350km (210 mi) railroad link to the Ring of Fire. Krech Ojard is a railroad engineering and construction firm that has completed a number of projects with KWG's principal shareholder Cliffs Natural Resources (NYSE: CLF) (Paris: CLF.PA). Krech Ojard has identified and field refined a proposed route and is

undertaking additional surveys to determine the final alignment. A feasibility study will then be completed prior to moving into the next phases of the project.

I am hoping that the closing of the AFN Restaurant may soon be reversed as Chief Sonny Gagnon and Band Council evaluate the importance of this service to our area. I appreciated the discussion I had with the newly-elected Chief and wish the new Chief and Council well in their endeavours. Meegwitch.

New signage at the 11 / 17 intersection at Nipigon will be installed in November. After years of lobbying, the newly designed signs reflect input from Greenstone which now better ‘point’ to Greenstone. A new ‘Nakina’ mileage sign just north of Geraldton has been welcomed. There are still several signs along 584 that need to be replaced. Am also pleased to note that the E M S sign has been replaced at our clinic / EMS station.

PHOTO [Nipigon River Bridge, ca.1940]

Like many municipal councils, Greenstone weighed in on concerns associated with the potential withdrawing of Greyhound Bus services in Northwestern Ontario. With discussions involving Greyhound continuing, municipal councilors and staff were offered assurances through a presentation made by North Country Travel (while at the Thunder Bay Municipal League meetings), that a seamless bus service would be introduced on December 3^rd if Greyhound ceases its operation on December 2^nd. There is now word that a meeting of Canada's transport ministers has resulted in the formation of a working group that will try to review and modernize the regulatory framework governing passenger bus service.

The Tourism Steering Committee (a committee of Council) has introduced a motion to support an application to NOHFC. The application will be for a one year Youth Internship where a successful graduate will work to implement the earlier recommendations made to Council that support marketing and promoting tourism in Greenstone. The committee is chaired by myself and supported with Councillors E. Mannisto, Councillor Jane Jantunen, Ross Houghton of Greenstone Economic Development Corporation, and Paula Menchions, President, Geraldton Chamber of Commerce, Jay Lucas (GCF), Harry Kelly, and Rob Kurisch.

Ontario Power Generation (OPG) is proposing to develop approximately 100 MW of hydroelectric power on the Little Jackfish River (east of Armstrong). Up to 280 MW of wind power potential exists on the east side of Lake Nipigon. OPG is expected to identify new wind potential further north of Lake Nipigon.

A number of local projects are being worked on or completed. They include getting power to KC subdivision lift station (to avoid sewer back-ups), new carpets in the Nakina clinic, further road repairs next year, improvements at the cemetery which include new fencing, painting and the straightening of the entrance markers, new furniture for the airport, and the purchase of a dyed diesel tank at the E.R. Ruddick Airport.

The internet blog, “Greenstone Matters” can be viewed at http://jay--daiter.blogspot.com/ The ward newsletter and other personal posts will also reside at this site. You can easily comment on the posts and your participation is encouraged.

Regards,

Jay Daiter, Nakina Ward Councillor

cc: Mayor Power

Nakina Ward Office

Every kilowatt Counts

An easy alternative to disposing of your old fridge or freezer has been introduced by the Ontario Power Authority which helps your avoid disposal charges and reduces the impact on our landfills.

You can book an appointment today and they will come pick it up for FREE – even haul it out of your basement for you and take care of it in an environmentally responsible manner.

Am I Eligible?

To qualify, you must have at least one appliance as shown in the "primary appliance" category below. If you have at least one "primary appliance," then we will also pick up window air conditioners and dehumidifiers.

Primary appliance: Full-sized refrigerators and full-sized freezers must be:

• between 10-27 cubic feet
• in working condition (plugged in 24 hrs prior to pick up)
• 15 years of age or older.

Secondary appliance: Window air conditioners and dehumidifiers must be:

• in working condition
• 10 years of age or older
• window air conditioners must be removed from the window prior to pick up and placed near a power source.

Your request can be processed online by going to:

http://everykilowattcounts.ca/residential/fridge/pick-up-my-fridge.php

Ward Newsletter

Dear Citizens,

The New Year marks the beginning of some important initiatives and activities. Of significance to me are the 11 remaining months to works towards the completion of projects that we as a Council have identified, and several aspects of involvement that hold my interest and enthusiasm such as strengthening relationships especially those which will leverage mining-related economic opportunities and ‘tourism’ initiatives’ being lead through a Steering Committee of Council. It was last March during the closing ceremonies of Nakina’s Winter Carnival, that I first spoke publicly about the exploration and related activities in the “Ring of Fire”. The activities to our north have peaked the interest of residents, mining companies, First Nations as well as foreign investors. I have and will continue to better understand how these emerging mineral developments can positively impact on our local economy.

I personally and professionally enjoy being challenged with the issues that fall in the municipal domain and consider myself fortunate to have the opportunity to influence Council and be a part of the collective decision-making. I have filed my nomination papers for the upcoming municipal election (October 25^th) and have deliberately chosen to do so early. It is my ambition to continue to have a presence at the Council table and to be as influential and instrumental in making decisions that will reflect well on our community. What is most important for me is that I declare openly, my sincerity to the public, of my willingness and commitment to continue to serve on Council in a capacity to represent voters and influence change.

The process is underway regarding the 2010 budget and to that end, input has been provided identifying local road improvements (Main, Center, Ontario, Cordingly), building maintenance at the Nakina Clinic and Heritage Buildings, capital equipment needs, and arena complex and airport improvements. Of particular interest to local residents identified during the community consultations held this past summer, was the request for commercial airport lots to be developed in Nakina. This is the year for this project to carry forward in the context of the activity that is prevalent at the E.R. Ruddick Airport. This capital project has been introduced. Continuing to resource the municipal airports, an A.C.A.P. submission was filed this month for approval totaling in excess of $ 5 M for improvements and upgrades at the E.R. Ruddick Airport. The A.C.A.P. announcements are made in the spring of the year. I have introduced the feasibility considerations of an airport runway extension from 3500’ to 5000’.

Continuing in my role as Chair of the Tourism Steering Committee, we are optimistic that our request for financial assistance from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund (NOHFC), will be approved in the amount of $27, 500. The funding will supplement municipal funding for a new position of a Tourism Events and Attractions Coordinator. The position will be advertized with the committee continuing in their role of identifying and implementing tourism investment strategies. A video shoot in each of Greenstone’s wards, will help to better profile our municipal assets and events through the production of a Greenstone DVD and a series of television programs on major US television networks through the engagement of the “DimeStore Fisherman”. A tentative itinerary for a 5 day video shoot from August 13^th -17^th has been prepared with Jim Hoey being a guest in Nakina during the 25^th Anniversary of the Nakina Bass Derby. Further details of this visit will be described in the local media at a later date.

A series of meetings throughout Greenstone saw Nakina bring out the largest gathering as Matthew Fischer lead a community focus group in Nakina in early December. The input gathered in each of the Wards of Greenstone was collated and presented in a final report to the community at large in mid January. A number of recommendations involving a partnership of G.E.D.C. and the Municipality are described in the “Gap Analysis and Market Study Report”. (complete downloadable copies of the final report and the presentation are available on the GEDC website at:

http://www.gedc.ca/article/greenstone-region-gap-analysis-and-market-study-report-1129.asp)

Again, I want to thank the many residents who came out to provide meaningful and grass roots input reflective of your community. This is a good example of how your input mattered.

On February 3^rd, I will join the Mayor to attend the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting. Of particular interest is the Keynote Speaker at this event, President & C.E.O. Frank Smeenk (KWG Resources and Canada Chrome Corporation). He will be addressing the gathering about Ring of Fire developments especially as his company is one of the major mining players in the Ring of Fire. There is considerable interest mixed with speculation about the impact of foreseeable developments especially due to the proximity of Greenstone.

The matter of energy transmission plans for Northwestern Ontario is of significance to the Greenstone region especially the ability to provide power to the Ring of Fire. It is timely that correspondence from NOMA President, Anne Krassilowsky (Mayor Dryden) and a supporting resolution addressed to all NOMA Members, (dated January 15, 2010) identifies the production, transmission, and distribution of electricity as a key part of the Northwestern Ontario economy. An endorsement from NOMA describing: “that the station (Little Jackfish hydro-electric power plant) and that the plan be modified (at Hydro One’s expense) to provide sufficient power to upgrade the existing line from Beardmore to Longlac and Nakina and to power the future line to the Ring of Fire.” I am supportive of a meeting with the Minister of Energy and Infrastructure while attending the Ontario Good Roads Conference as well as continuing to ensure that MPP, Michael Gravelle, Minister of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry, is fully in tune with this issue.

The start of the New Year introduced not one, but two restaurant choices for local consumers. You can appreciate that I was ‘invited’ to do something about the absence of any place to eat in the latter months. The private business opportunities were quickly pursued given the requirements of opening such a business. This issue which has been addressed through local initiatives is appreciated. It is my hope that the services provided will support the needs of the community and that the community will support the services. As Nakina’s position as a staging area to the Ring of Fire developments becomes more defined, the need for a local restaurant is expected to help the local economy. To those who worked hard to provide this service, I thank you and wish you well in your respective business endeavours.

Leading a Local Incentive Grant application to G.E.D.C. on behalf of the 3 Greenstone Snowmobile Clubs, our application for signage improvements was rewarded with funding for $4398.00 which covered the entire costs of this project. The new banner additions to the large map billboards supported with destination signs will better ensure safer experiences for snowmobilers. The new reflective banners will improve the promotion of the “Greenstone Snowmobiling Loop” as the banners will be visible at night for sledders and motorists travelling through Greenstone.

The Nakina Heritage Building (Train Station) is currently providing available commercial space to the local school board and to the Country Kitchen Restaurant. This Municipally owned building is available for commercial use and residents are encouraged to call me if you know of a business or company who would be interested in leasing available space in the suitable offices located in the Train Station.

The internet blog, “Greenstone Matters” can be viewed at http://jay--daiter.blogspot.com/ The ward newsletter and other personal posts will also reside at this site. You can easily comment on the posts and your participation is encouraged.

Regards,

Jay Daiter, Nakina Ward Councillor

cc: Mayor Power

Dates for Town Hall Meetings

Council of the Municipality of Greenstone will hold Town Hall meetings:

June 1 Beardmore Community Centre

June 2 Geraldton Community Centre

June 3 Longlac Sportsplex

June 4 Nakina Community Centre

6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Topics will include, but are not limited to, Finance (Budget, Tax Rates, Capital Projects,) Council Composition, Strategic Plan.

CLICK HERE here for a copy of the Information Package which will be made available to the public at each meeting.

April was Busy

While the weather was struggling for spring to arrive in Greenstone, there was "building" weather in Parry Sound where the grandchildren are living and so the playhouse project was underway several weeks earlier than planned. Working only from pictures, my son Josh and I were both pretty proud of the end result. There is no doubt that our 3 grandchildren, Jordynn, Addyson and Naomi will spend many fun hours in their playhouse. If not, maybe it'll be a scaled down version of retirement living?

As one member on a planning team, we have met to begin planning and organizing the community / public consultations which will occur in each of our 4 wards (June 1st - 4th). Sensitive to the "hot button" issues, I hope and will ask for the preparation of relevant background information on matters such as a new municipal building, water / sewer rates, tax rates, and service levels. I'll be suggesting that the backgrounders be made available on the Community Portal and local paper in order to be available for those who do not attend the community meetings. It is important to me that there is as much opportunity for interaction with the public that will help guide Council. The second planning meeting is May 11th.

Best Wishes to Jeanne. We wish you a speedy recovery and look forward to your return.

It's good to see the local AFN Restaurant remaining open for business. In speaking with Chief Kashkeesh several weeks ago, I impressed upon him how important it was to the local economy that the AFN remain open. Thank you for re-evaluating and keeping the restaurant open. Although business is slower than usual, it is my hope that the summer months will be more profitable to the owners and appreciated by the patrons.

I dropped in to the Engineering Office earlier in the week and was pleased to get details of the reconstruction of Highway 584 which is now underway. I hope that there are local opportunities for employment during the construction period.

Community Consultations

Nakina is winding down it's Winter Carnival weekend and this morning presented as an opportunity to address the breakfast group. To follow are some of those remarks.......

So where do we go? I have been pushing and pulling for the past 6 years to develop a clear Strategic Plan supported with a Long Term Capital Plan. I clearly recall a discussion with a another councilor who told me it would never happen and my answer to him was…if it is the will of Council, then it will happen. I am happy to say that this Council is getting much closer and dates for public meetings will be announced.

The table is being set for public ward meetings to begin the dialogue with you, the rate payers of Greenstone whether you want to talk about taxes, water / sewer, the short term goals being proposed by Council or the hot button, a new Municipal building.

Please don't disappoint yourself and those who have been working to get us to this point. Many of you signed a petition presented to Council on March 23rd that supports community and strategic planning sessions. It is not enough to have signed the petition. Now that Council has committed to these meetings (which are in the early planning stages), it is absolutely imperative that you show up at these meetings and be a part of the community planning. This is your opportunity for meaningful input and it may not come around again for a long time. Watch for more information that will be included in the Nakina Ward newsletter, internet blog (Greenstone Matters) which will be my contribution to make sure you know what's going on.

I get to do a lot of thinking on Hwy 584 going and especially coming home usually between 10 and 11 following Council meetings. While the answers continue to be debated, applauded and criticized in terms of what will bring the world out of this recession, one thing is clear. Our community has expanded to include all of us.... a global community. The loss of jobs for many of you invites those of us not directly affected, certainly to feel fortunate. Though make no mistake, all of us are feeling the pinch in varying degrees. And this is my point. If ever there was a time to demonstrate and behave as a community, it is now. We can each define ourselves by asking what is our contribution to that community and certainly in the past almost 6 years, community has meant a better understanding what are the issues facing all us in Greenstone.

And they are most similar now as every ward is hurting, and almost assuredly Longlac residents and businesses are being hardest hit. That doesn’t diminish the impact here in Nakina as people pack up and leave, but Longlac has never experienced what Nakina has gone through before and it remains to be seen if that community has the will and resilience to come back.

It’s my pleasure to acknowledge and thank all of the volunteer workers and planners of your Winter Carnival… another community tradition that has stood the test of time and weathered some stormy conditions before now. But the spirit in this little town (Nakina) is amazing.

That spirit was evident throughout the weekend watching parents and children enjoy the activities especially the mini-pops, and in the participation of the ice fishing tournament yesterday, the carnival meals and the curling to-day. Congratulations on pulling this together. I applaud your sense of community. Enjoy the rest of the weekend.