Construction Matters - Premiere Edition by Schelle Holmes

PULL OUT SECTIONS: D.L. Services and TaskForce Engineering

RE E I M E PR SUE IS

Picton home to Ontario’s first roundabout on a provincial highway

page 5

Popular specialty lumber store under new ownership Cornerstone Builders Ltd. redefines the hub of Prince Edward County with a new Home Hardware ........ .............. pg 17

Prince Edward County - Heritage & knowledge define the economy

The Waring House builds energy efficient luxury accommodation at 1860s Inn. ................. .............. pg 19 D.L. Services - Brighton company national leader in hydrocarbon remediation – PULL OUT SECTION TaskForce Engineering - Meeting the needs of industry in a finely honed market – PULL OUT SECTION

page 4

The Edward at 280 Main Street, Picton.

The Edward

A new classic anchors Picton’s main street revitalization

BY CATHERINE STUTT After almost ﬁve years of planning, development, and construction, an investment of more than $8 million and a weekly commute from Charlotte, N.C.

to Europe to Picton, developer Michael Bake says the greatest compliment he hears about his family’s latest project is, “Oh, you’re ﬁxing up the old building.”

As The Edward, located at 280 Main Street in Picton gets ready to welcome its ﬁrst residents, it’s already a pillar of the main street community, which is music to Michael’s ears. The irony is The

page 3

Edward is a brand new building built on three lots left empty after a circa 2000 fire. Instead of vacant property, the bane of small town Ontario main streets, The Edward more than fills the void with an attractive edifice reminiscent of old world grace. At six storeys, The Edward created 17 new residences on the top four floors, and a mix of retail stores and commercial offices on the first two levels, all designed to revitalize Picton’s historic main street. The Bake family – the business includes Michael, his Dubaibased brother Chris, and sisters Alexandra who operates Books and Company, and Victoria, who owns a vineyard in France – has significant experience in the area’s residential market. They bought and developed the Gilbert and Lighthall building and the old utilities building, restoring, rebuilding, renovating, and converting to a blend of luxury apartments and retail components. “At The Edward, we initially pictured a two-storey commercial building for the space,” admits Michael, looking out his

Continued on next page

READY MIX CONCRETE CERTIFIED MEMBER OF RMCAO

Heated Aggregate • Poured walls & floor finishing Crushed Gravel & Screenings • Sand Fill Screened Sand (Masonry, Concrete, Filter) • Portland, Masonry Type “S” Cement • Septic System Installation • Cement Blocks and Brick Backhoe, Dozer & Excavator Rental • Services of A.C.I. Technician Available “Providing quality products & service since 1947” * Email: cbfennellltd@xplornet.com

476-2653 FAX 613-476-7984 CHERRY VALLEY PICTON

613

March 2009 – Page 2

Published by: Conolly Publishing Ltd. 1 Young St., PO Box 1030, Brighton, ON K0K 1H0 a subsidiary of Metroland Media Group Ltd. Phone: (613) 475-0255 or 1-800-267-8012 Fax: (613) 475-4546 or 1-866-601-8880 Web site: www.indynews.ca All original material produced by employees of Conolly Publishing Ltd., including layouts and art, is copyright © 2008, Conolly Publishing Ltd. Registered with Canada Post Corporation as Publications Mail Registration No. 07536, Agreement #40039596 PUBLISHER Ron Prins EDITOR Catherine Stutt ADVERTISING Rick Fraser PRODUCTION Lindsey White ART DIRECTOR Schellé Holmes E-mail: Send article ideas to editor@xplornet.ca Ad queries/materials to rfraser@indynews.ca Letters to the Editor: Letters must be signed and the name of the author will be published. Include a phone number for verification. Connolly Publishing Ltd. reserves the right to edit letters, while preserving the core of the writer’s argument. Brief letters of 300 words or less are more likely to be published, but due to the volume of letters received, we cannot guarantee that any particular letter will be printed. Ontario Press Council Member Since 1982. Connolly Publishing Ltd. is a member of the Ontario Press Council, which deals with specific, unsatisfied complaints from the public about the conduct of the press in gathering and publishing news, opinion and advertising. The Council can be reached at: Ontario Press Council 2 Carlton St., Suite 1706 Toronto, ON M5B 1J3 Phone: 416-340-1981 Fax: 416-340-8724 E-mail: ontpress@interlog.com Web site: www.ontpress.com

The Edward Continued from previous page office window above Books and Company as work continued across the street at The Edward. “Jo-Anne Egan (Prince Edward County’s planning manager) asked if we’d consider a residential component because she knew people wanted condos in the downtown core.” The Edward answers the call on all counts. Michael describes it as turn of the century old Chicago style. Built on the vacant main street lots and part of a steep lot Michael owns on East Mary Street, it features tumbled brick, architectural block, and stucco exterior finishes for enduring character, and concrete and steel for structural integrity. The main street level will be home to two retail outlets – one a gourmet food-to-go and catering company, the other most likely an upscale home décor shop – which blend well with the essence of the County’s agri-tourism and Taste Trail personalities. Adjacent to the retail outlets, a business hub powered by the Prince Edward Lennox and Addington Community Futures Development Corporation (PELA CFDC) is already operational (see separate article). The County building, planning, public works, and economic development consume the second floor. In total, the building created 4,645 m2 of new space, including four floors of luxury condominiums. “We had a waiting list from our existing

tenants, and once people heard about the project, the list grew,” said Michael. “We sold 10 units in one week, and we have only one unit left – the rest are sold and all should be occupied by late February.” As Michael watched the activity at The Edward, he smiled at a memory. “My family has built a good reputation in this area. We’ve purchased buildings and turned them into excellent spaces. My parents

“We are deeply committed to the revitalization of Main Street.” fell in love with the County and although we live all over the world, this is home for us; this is our centre. When Alexandra moved to the County and bought the bookstore, she figured on a quiet life but she’s working harder than ever. She’s the engine behind our developments in the County.”

Michael’s appreciation for his sister is genuine. For two years, he had a bit of a commute and

couldn’t always be in Picton, although in the family enterprise, he describes himself as the bricks and mortar guy. A commercial airline pilot now on a much needed leave of absence, Michael’s week typically started late Sunday night with a flight from his home base of Charlotte, N.C. to Toronto, a drive to Picton, where he worked all week, then a flight back to Charlotte where he’d fly an A-330 to Europe for the weekend, then start the cycle anew. Every mile, every hour was worth the sacrifice. “We’re deeply committed to the revitalization of Main Street,” he stressed. “This is a vibrant economic centre. Picton’s main street has everything on it from Giant Tiger to gourmet shops, and we patronize all of them. We’re adding a good mix of residents to that dynamic, ranging in age from 47 to 87. Between the people who live in the building and their visitors, and those who work in and use the retail and commercial spaces, we’re bringing more than 100 people to downtown Picton every single day.” Michael is grateful, too, for the co-operation he has received. “I can’t say enough about our neighbours. This has been very disruptive to them and their co-operation has been vital. It would have been a nightmare

without their tremendous acceptance, but I know in my heart the economic benefit more than exceeds the turmoil of a year of construction.” Acknowledging the project was huge risk without precedent in this region, Michael admits he proceeded without market studies or consultants. “It was just a community effort. We spoke to people on the street, to our tenants, to County officials. It was just a gut instinct with a different mindset. While other municipalities are building outside their downtown core, Picton is recreating its epicentre with a varied and viable retail economic centre. The vibrancy of any main street has to have a destination characteristic.” Despite the ambitious undertaking that will play an important role in the stability of Main Street for generations, regardless of his family’s global addresses, and a worldly commute, this project is very personal to Michael. “I’m spoiled because I have the opportunity to do what I love in a place that is home for us. This is our nest.” For a tour of Picton’s newest piece of history, visit www.theedward.ca, or even better, visit Picton’s Main Street and experience the seamless integration of The Edward in its historical setting.

Anatomy of a fuel oil spill remediation – answering the question “How clean is clean?” BY CATHERINE STUTT It’s the beginning of a homeowner’s nightmare – a basement or yard full of furnace oil – and a process that could keep them from their home for months. With increasingly stringent environmental liabilities and limits on insurance policies, homeowners and their insurers need a reliable remediation company to respond quickly and effectively. For almost 15 years, D.L. Services has helped people rebuild their lives after a spill. As the industry evolves, one question remains, and it’s the subject of intense debate and considerable litigation. How clean is clean? Thousands of customers have asked that question, wondering during the lengthy remediation process if their lives will ever return to normal. For more than 4,500 clients, D.L. Services

answered that question, backing it with split sampling, peer reviewed data, knowledge, expertise, and infrastructure that is the envy of the industry. With emergency response

“Only when the site is returned to pre-spill condition, does D.L. Services close the ﬁle.” teams available 24 hours a day, a ﬂeet of equipment, and highly trained technicians backed by engineers of every discipline, D.L. Services’ quick response ensures all measures are deployed in a timely manner to prevent further impact from the loss.

Whether the call comes from a homeowner or insurance adjuster, the team attends the scene and immediately begins to mitigate the damage while simultaneously determining the source of the contamination and its potential path. If possible, the source will be stopped, perhaps involving pumping out the remaining fuel in a tank or repairing a broken line. Once the source is abated, a damage assessment is conducted and the physical recovery of any free product – grossly im-

Some spills are contained to the immediate area of the source, and some are not, as shown in this sump hole.

pacted soil, water, or building materials – begins. This reduces

“...testing could continue for months if not years...” the chance of migration. Always in consultation with the prop-

erty owner, tenant, insurance representatives, and environmental authorities, D.L. Services mobilizes additional equipment to contain and recover contaminated soil and water. This will most likely involve removal of soil to D.E.G. Environmental, a soil recycling facility in Brighton, installation of monitoring equipment,

Continued on next page

Congratulations on your 15th anniversary DL Services Some spills are contained to the immediate area of the source.

March 2009 – Page 10

Napanee 130 Richmond Blvd. 613-354-4391

Picton 13239 Hwy 33 613-471-1194

Kingston 1407 John Counter Blvd. 613-542-1831

Continued from previous page and the beginning of a battery of tests that will continue for months, if not years, depending on the scope of the spill. Addressing every possible av-

“...microbes consume fuel and its toxic components...” enue of contamination, recovery wells may be installed to give the fuel oil an easy place to go, and the entire impacted area is covered to prevent precipitation from exacerbating the spill. Air quality is paramount, and from the earliest stages, air

phase units are used to treat fuel oil vapours. In late 2008, Doug and Robert LeBlanc acquired North American distribution rights to the GreenspecTM listed LeVOCC. LeVOCC units remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air. VOCs such as fuel oil vapours are unhealthy for us to breathe. Eliminating the smell of fuel oil and restoring interior air quality is one of the most important goals when remediating a spill. The LeVOCC units are also capable of effectively remove ing and treating all airborne mould, toxic chemicals from mould, pesticides, herbicides, and cleaning chemicals within the unit and do not generate harmful sub-

D.L. Services uses bioremediation to treat some contamination in situ.

stances such as ozone and hydroxyls. More information concerning the LeVOCC system can be found at: www.LeVOCC.com. After the initial dig and haul excavation, if necessary, in situ bioremediation begins. This is treatment of contaminated soil and groundwater in its original location on the site using micro-organisms (microbes). Technicians create a macro environment in the subsurface with the application of microbes, enzymes, oxygen, and trace nutrients which are government approved for use. The microbes

consume fuel and its toxic components including but not limited to benzene, toluene, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), xylenes, and vinyl chloride, and convert it to energy to live and multiply. The by-products of bioremediation are only water and carbon dioxide. This process is normally beneficial in cases where bedrock, concrete floors and footings, and inaccessible soil require treatment. Less disruptive to the site, bioremediation speeds a natural process that could otherwise take hundreds of years. Only when the site is returned to its pre-spill condition does D.L. Services close the file.

“Bioremediation speeds a natural process that could take hundreds of years.”

Known in the industry as a dig and haul process, contaminated soil is removed from the site.

March 2009 – Page 11

D.L. SERVICES D.L. Services Mobile Treatment Unit for contaminated water.

Capture and absorption booms for collection of fuel oil from lake surface.

Drilling rig installing groundwater monitoring wells.

Skimming of fuel oil from lake surface for collection, containment and disposal.

Structural supports and conveyers installed to facilitate hand removal of contaminated soil from a residential basement.

Inc.

D.L. Services Inc. (DLS) is an environmental engineering firm and contractor providing remediation solutions for fuel oil spills, contaminated soils, water and air. It is our policy to return fresh fuel oil and other contaminant spill sites (soil, groundwater, or air) back to pre-spill conditions by using DLS’ Ministry of the Environment approved technology such as our Mobile Groundwater Treatment Units to alleviate future environmental liabilities. For the past 15 years, DLS has offered its customers the highest quality in environmental consulting through the remediation of over 4500 fuel oil spills. The scope of DLS’ expertise has grown over the years to also include peer reviews of other engineers work, mold inspection, radon gas testing services, Phase 1, 2 and 3 Environmental Site Assessments, indoor air quality monitoring and control, as well as surface and groundwater testing to provide our clients piece of mind. The DLS team of highly skilled project Managers, Environmental Engineers, Technologists, and Geoscientists will communicate with our clients throughout every environmental project to make sure that informed decisions are made and project costs are managed. Box 3014, 118 Cty. Rd. No. 64 Brighton, ON, K0K 1H0 tel: (613) 475-4155 1-866-287-7455 fax: (613) 475-0758 e-mail: dl.services@sympatico.ca web page: www.dlservicesinc.com

Machine excavation of contaminated soil.

Restoring the Environment for the Use of Future Generations

D.E.G. Environmental “The DEG Soil Recycling Facility (SRF) opened to serve the Province of Ontario in May 2005. The SRF diverts petroleum hydrocarbon contaminated soil from Ontario’s landfill sites thus helping to preserve their valuable capacities. DEG uses a leachate free, controlled, ex-situ bioremediation process to render the soil free of contamination. The recycled soil can then be reused on any type of property from farmland to commercial/industrial to residential. Box 3024, 118 Cty. Rd. No. 64 Brighton, Ontario, K0K 1H0 tel: (613) 475-1996 fax: (613) 475-5249 e-mail: deg@degenvironmental.com

The first load of contaminated soil is weighed in Raw material storage building, scales and office at DEG Environmental in May 2005. at the DEG plant.

Petroleum hydrocarbon contaminated soil stored in raw material building.

Established bio-pile for treatment of contaminated soil pending productive re-use.

March 2009 – Page 11

Delivering unique solutions for clients Continued from page 10 based on the equipment and its use. We launched Industrial TaskForce to provide a more comprehensive service to our

“Contracts at CFB Trenton have been part of our mix for years.” customers.” Seeing the big picture is a particular talent of the TaskForce team. While grateful for the work at CFB Trenton and acknowledging the unprecedented growth predicted at Canada’s busiest air force base over the next five to ten years, the company enjoys a diverse customer base. In early 2009, TaskForce is spread throughout the greater Quinte area. Crews are working on a new ScotiaBank branch in Napanee, finishing a 5,000 sq. ft. medical clinic at Loyalist Plaza in Belleville and a new dental office for Dr. Bunt at White’s Road and Hwy. 2. They

recently finished an orthodontic clinic at the Quinte Mall, and a new winery in Prince Edward County. “We do a lot of pre-engineered structures, as well as a tremendous amount of custom work, and a significant number of leasehold improvements,” said Mr. Kempenaar, who by virtue of his customers’ projects has an insider’s knowledge of economies farther afield. “We just finished a 40,000 sq. ft. addition at Deca Cables in Trenton driven by new business from the oil patch.” The professionals at TaskForce find the work interesting and important, and appreciate a healthy perspective. “We do a considerable amount of work for Jebco Manufacturing in Colborne and just finished a 10,000 sq. ft. addition for them. It’s fascinating to watch the process because they’re such a diverse company, and more than a little humbling to realize the equipment is worth more than twice the value of the building we built to house it..” Retrofitting and expanding industries is a large component

of the TaskForce portfolio. The company designed and built Canadian National Railway’s Steel Distribution Centre and its main Dual Hump Control Tower at Canada’s largest rail marshalling site – the MacMillan Yard in Concord, Ontario. It built the active storage facility at the Chalk River Atomic Energy Plant, and recently completed a

Continued on next page

Proud to be associated with Task Force Since 1973

• Complete Design & Installation • Industrial Process & Control • Custom Control Panel Building • PLC Installations and Repairs

• Rewiring and Upgrading • Burglar & Fire Alarm Systems • CFAA Certified Fire Inspections • Computer & Telephone Cable Installation

39 Gotha Street, Trenton 613-392-7134 & 613-962-0443 Divisions of Ken Leighton Limited

Top and bottom: Airbus configuration hangar

Proud to be associated with Task Force!

FRANKFORD Fabrication & Machining Frankford, Ontario (613) 398-9076

March 2009 – Page 12

Creating an entrauprenurial culture while meeting the needs of industry Continued from previous page new headquarters for Anderson Haulage in Stouffville. Anderson and its subsidiary RailTran specialize in getting large pieces of equipment to remote locations

and have a long history with TaskForce. Although TaskForce

often works far afield, Mr. Kempenaar is quite positive about the future of the Quinte region. “This area has significant competitive advantages to offer the entire country. Our workforce recognizes we all need to work together for everyone’s success; we have good available industrial land reasonably priced which is a benefit to manufacturers looking to expand; we’re located in the centre of the Canadian Peter Kempenaar markets with easy access to U.S. markets, and our housing prices are both stable and reasonable.

We can remain competitive because people here have developed their lifestyles around something sustainable and comfortable.” “There are huge opportunities here and although we may have been a somewhat forgotten part of the country, people are starting to take notice. We’re going to see remarkable growth in the next ﬁve to 10 years. Overall the Quinte area and the

“Our workforce recognizes we all need to work together for everyone’s success…” Quinte Economic Development Commission have the right attitude and environment. The QEDC sends the message we’re open for business and will do what it takes to attract new

The Rekker House

industry, recognizing industries don’t have time for red tape and roadblocks. QEDC assembled a team to make things happen, solve problems, and pave the way to prosperity.” TaskForce is part of that effort. When ofﬁcials were looking at the Kellogg’s site, TaskForce was building the new 40,000 sq. ft. Maxwell Technologies facility next door and provided information on the site conditions, including soils reports. “We work together to help make things happen. We recognize opportunities to attract companies like Kellogg’s and Sears to Belleville only come along once in a while so

everyone needs to do whatever it takes to bring them here. The economic impact of companies such as this beneﬁts everyone and cannot be underestimated.” Community is important to Mr. Kempenaar, whether it’s his colleagues, the construction sector, or his neighbourhood. To the partners, building involves much more than buildings. “We have a core group of very talented and experienced management and construction professionals. It is very important to us that they are given the opportunity to reach their full potential. The key to attracting and retaining quality

Continued on next page

PROUD OF OUR ASSOCIATION WITH TASKFORCE ENGINEERING

Quality solutions for the protection of lives and property, providing an exceptional value to our customers.

171A Rink St., Ste. 262, Peterborough, ON K9J 2J6 Tel: (705) 750-7415 Fax: (705) 749-1614 Email: info@maximumfire.ca

Proud of our association with TaskForce Engineering.

OUR NEW ADDRESS 224 North Murray St. Trenton, ON K8V 6R8 Tel

(613) 394-4548

Steve Middleton

Fax

(613) 394-5445

James Van Meer

March 2009 – Page 13

demand for talented workers.” Dave Brown is involved with Loyalist College, working with industry leaders to identify industry needs. “It’s an ongoing dialogue,” continued Mr. Kempenaar. “We need to reach into high schools and colleges, particularly now the province is making more money available for skills

Continued from previous page people is to create an environment where people are working together in the interest of each other’s success. Creating an entrepreneurial culture where everyone can feel pride and ownership in what they are accomplishing makes such a difference in a company’s ability to make business decisions that advance the interests of everyone.”

sports arena, though. “We designed this to be an emergency

“Schools need to adjust to meet the changing needs of industry.” response centre with a sustainable energy source, in the event of a natural disaster, so it will serve the community in many ways and add significantly to

“The schools need to adjust to meet the changing needs of industry. We need more students considering a career in construction, whether it’s at the skilled trade or management level. As an industry, we have a huge

Proud to be associated with TaskForce Engineering

TaskForce’s reputation with clients leads to the development of high profile brands.

training.” While working closely to help local industries expand and retrofit for new production lines, TaskForce also tackles municipal projects, including the design of a new community centre in Wellington. “We worked with officials to develop designs and prepare a package for the funding application.” The new facility will include fitness rooms, a jogging track, a split community centre, and an NHL-sized ice pad which will be a new home for the Wellington Dukes. It’s more than just a

the County’s economic development potential.” Always an advocate for the construction industry while seeing the big picture at first glance, Mr. Kempenaar leads by example, and that means creating a diverse customer base to keep the company busy regardless of economic peaks and valleys. “There’s always something to fill the gaps. Dave and I started TaskForce with a huge leap of faith and it worked out well. We’re very pleased with our position in our chosen markets.”

Committed to working with industry in the interest of each other’s success

Design Builders Project Managers General Contractors Professional Engineers 613-966-5600 www.taskforce-eng.com

Fax: 613-966-5701 E-mail: generalmail@taskforce-eng.com 19 Newberry Street, Belleville, ON K8N 3N2

RECREATIONAL

TRANSPORTATION

COMMERCIAL

INDUSTRIAL

INSTITUTIONAL

Teamwork – There really is no other way of doing business

Picton Home Hardware and Cornerstone Builders Ltd. blend a Canadian retailer with County heritage BY CATHERINE STUTT Construction may be about bricks and mortar, but building is about relationships. Few projects demonstrate this concept like the work Cornerstone Builders Ltd. of Belleville is doing in Picton. Late in 2008, the design/build firm completed the expansion of The Waring House, while simultaneously building the new Picton Home Hardware. The projects were connected by far more than the builder and an intersection.

component, so remaining in the core wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t an option. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve always been huge supporters of downtown Picton and will continue to do so.â&#x20AC;? The new Picton Home Hardware sits at the intersection of County Road 1 and Hwy. 33, and remains very much a part of the Picton commercial landscape. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Continued on next page

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve always been huge supporters of downtown Picton and will continue to do so.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cornerstone has been a valued long time customer of ours,â&#x20AC;? said Adam Busscher, owner of Picton Home Hardware. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We were happy to have them as the builder of our new store, and we were heavily involved in supplying material for The Waring House expansion, so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a very positive relationship all the way around.â&#x20AC;? The decision to move the Home Hardware store out of town was difficult, but Adam is convinced it was the only option. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find enough land in town for a store of this size with the warehouse

Adam Busscher, owner of Picton Home Hardware checks out his new store.

N O O GS

N I N E

(

)

(

;

)

;

4 -

)

March 2009 – Page 16 Continued from previous page still keeping retail focused on Prince Edward County, and we’re just on the outskirts of town. We had serious parking challenges at the other store, and delivery was difficult. The size we needed is more suited to a location outside the downtown corridor, and we’re very centrally located – we can quickly deliver to anywhere in the County from here.” The Busscher family first

started thinking about expanding five years ago. The

“We’re keeping retail focused on Prince Edward County.“ family business is in its 32nd year, and Adam jokes he’s

been working there since he was seven. He formalized his relationship in 1994 when he purchased the business from his father, Hank. Last year, Adam purchased Wellington Building Supplies, which he describes as a hardcore lumber yard, with 800 sq. ft. of retail space and 1.5 acres of yard and warehouse. “At Wellington, we primarily serve contractors who just want to come in, get their material, and get back to the

Adam Busscher in his home decor department.

Proud to be associated with Cornerstone Builders

“Dan Lucas from Cornerstone was instrumental in getting this project started.” job site. There are very few amenities at that yard, but it’s important to that end of the County and we’re keeping it open. It will be a satellite yard, supported by our main store.” The bells and whistles are

reserved for the new Home Hardware, which was built with great support from County contractors, customers, and council. “We’re a tight-knit group here, and work together. We like to support each other, but we realized a significant amount of building materials were coming over the bridge. Having a lumber supply yard on the County will hopefully make things easier for contractors and home owners.” The new store, currently in the merchandizing phase, will Continued on next page

195 Bellevue Drive, Belleville ON. K8N 4Z5 phone: 613-968-3501 fax: 613-968-4986 www.cornerstonebuilders.ca We excel in practical “Building, Cost and Schedule Solutions”

March 2009 – Page 17 Continued from previous page boast more than 30,000 sq. ft. of retail space and a 10,000 sq. ft. lumber warehouse. “We’ll be able to introduce kitchen design and sales, flooring, and offer a much wider selection of every product we sell,” explained Adam. Construction on the joint venture between Home Hardware and the Busscher family began

“Although this was formerly a farm field, it’s an environmentally sensitive area, and is near the headwaters of the Waring Creek.” August 2008, but not until satisfying myriad special interest groups and County council. “We encountered some planning and zoning issues which we were able to overcome with the expertise of County building officials and council. Cornerstone and Dan Lucas really came through for us. I think Dan went to more meetings than I did, and worked through every

detail. He was instrumental in getting this started.” Adam can’t compliment Cornerstone enough for the effort. “It has been a great pleasure working with Cornerstone Builders. They exceeded my expectations with their quality workmanship and over all professionalism throughout the building process. They were there through four years of meetings and late night council debates. We certainly could not have done it without them. In particular I am thankful for the following Cornerstone staff: Dan Lucas, Anthony Hanmer, Jeff Brown, Rick Sharpe, Rob Devries, and Mike Howard. Their leadership and team of employees all had a hand in making this a very smooth and seamless project.” Dan Lucas remembers the endless meetings necessary throughout the building permit and site plan approval process. “Although this was formerly a farm field, it’s an environmentally sensitive area, and is near the headwaters of the Waring Creek,” he explained. “Additionally, it’s in Prince Edward County, which is historically significant and enjoys a strong sense of identity. We wanted to work with all interested parties to design

a building that would reflect somewhat of a Loyalist theme.” During the four-year process, Dan worked with the Street Smarts Committee in Picton, the Prince Edward County planning and building departments, the Quinte Conservation Authority, Friends of the Waring Creek, the Ministry of Transportation Eastern Region (the new roundabout is literally at Home Hardware’s doorstep and modifications to the turn lanes were necessary), and of course, Home Hardware’s construction division. At the end of the day, several concessions were made.

“We hope we raised the bar for commercial development on the County.” The building boasts a salmon coloured block instead of the traditional grey, there are decorative mouldings, setbacks on the façade, and the red stripe normally branding a Home Hardware was eliminated. “That was a challenge,” said Adam. “That’s an identity band

for us, so removing it says a lot about Home Hardware’s commitment to a neighbourhood. We believe this store reflects the County and we hope we’ve raised the bar for future commercial development. We’ve made a commitment to the Friends of Waring Creek and committed a lot of money to landscaping and plantings along the banks. We want to be responsible stewards of our land.” For Cornerstone, it was another successful project with a valued client. The Belleville-based firm has a solid

Continued on next page

The new Picton Home Hardware boasts a 10,000 sq. ft. lumber and building materials warehouse.

Proud of Our Association with Cornerstone

MIG STRUCTURAL STEEL

COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL RESIDENTIAL

5216 St. Catherines Street, Box 396, St. Isidore, ON K0C 2B0

613-524-5537

www.migsteel.com

Celebrating over 20 Years of Service Excellence

613-968-4305

Fax: 613-968-5980 Email: info@dafoeroofing.com 291 Maitland Drive, Belleville, ON K8N 4Z5

www.dafoeroofing.com

March 2009 – Page 18

Continued from previous page relationship with the national retailer and Dan Lucas reported it’s built on trust. “Home Hardware is the kind of client with whom we have a bond; we trust them at face value and commit resources on a phone call.”

The 38 year old full service design/build contracting firm works closely with Home Hardware across Canada, taking projects from concept to turnkey, respecting each location’s unique sensitivities and conditions.

Both photos: Cornerstone Builders make rapid progress in the construction of Picton Home

Picton is a conventional steel building with a preengineered warehouse, tweaked to fit with the heritage atmosphere of the County. Another project underway in Ottawa will

be Home Hardware’s first LEED certified store. “We’ve built a trust and from that comes very clear lines of communication,” said Dan.

Proud to be Associated with Cornerstone Builders Kawneer Products • Residential & Commercial • Doors & Windows • Screen & Glass Repairs • Replacement Plate • Glass & Thermals • Sunrooms • Railings & Awnings

BURCHELL GLASS INC.

613-264-8662

Proud to be associated with Cornerstone

Fax 613-264-0534 2042 Rogers Road Perth, ON K7H 1P9

Ken Bald 613-392-1934

FULL SERVICE Landscape Construction and Maintenance Bulk Landscape Supplies

If you have a project you would like profiled, contact our editor, Catherine Stutt at editor@xplornet.com

March 2009 – Page 19

The Waring House – expanding heritage accommodations BY CATHERINE STUTT The challenge, when considering an expansion to a quaint heritage inn, is to increase accommodations without compromising character. Prince Edward County is blessed with heritage buildings, but few possess the unique character of 1860s-era Waring House. Working closely with Cornerstone Builders, Chris and Norah Rogers added 32 rooms in two new buildings, and successfully preserved the charm of their inn. “Chris and Norah are fabulous people to work with,” said Dan Lucas of Cornerstone Builders. “They have a vision they were able to convey to us and we worked together through each stage. We’d never designed a hotel before but we knew what they wanted and were aware from the beginning that quality and luxury were paramount.” Completed in December 2008, two 16-room 12,900 sq. ft. wood frame buildings compliment the existing atmosphere of The Waring House. “The rooms large and well-appointed,” reported Dan. “Norah designed and sourced the décor. She brought in Gibbard furniture from Napanee, included

mouldings to reflect a colonial style, and made each room handicapped accessible with huge washrooms and balcony access. These are luxury rooms in a historic setting.”

Behind the scenes, the Rogers committed to energy efficiency. The new buildings are heated with a geothermal system and achieved Green Leaf certification, which recognizes hotels for their commitment to environmental conservation. It requires implementation of stringent in-house programs that foster environmentallyfriendly practices, such as the efficient use of energy and water, water management,

MAKE US A PART OF YOUR HOME.

Stop in or call ...

13 Loyalist Drive, Brighton, ON • 613-475-3684

Call us for all your building needs!

lot of fun. Between Chris and Norah and Adam and his family, it was one of the most pleasant summers we’ve had.” Cornerstone is all about building relationships, and Dan Lucas feels this is the key to the company’s success. “From an industrial standpoint, customer service and customer loyalty will always bridge the valleys regardless of global economic conditions.”

One of two new buildings housing 16 luxury suites at The Waring House on Prince Edward County

Let Vanderlaan Building Products Ltd. give your home that new look you’ve been looking for. Our quality workmanship and exclusive Gentek product warranties will provide you with value, service and peace of mind. Want to find out more?

recycling, proper waste management, and policies that favour the purchase of products and services from equally committed environmentally-friendly companies. The relationship, though, was the most rewarding aspect of the project for Cornerstone. “Chris and Norah knew we were building Home Hardware across the highway and approached us about the Inn. It was a new experience for us and we had a

LeVOCC

Top-Quality Air Purifiers at Affordable Prices • Pollution Control • Air Purification • Air Quality Control

The LeVocc 500 The LeVocc 500 is the most advanced indoor air contaminant destroyer on the market. It utilizes the most advanced equipment in Photocatalytic Oxidation on (PCO) technology to pasteurize the air of hazardous microbes, objectionable airborne contaminants, and on volatile organic compounds (VOC). This air purification product is designed to capture and destroy unwanted d odours, toxic vapours, and infectious microorganismss that pollute the air inside your home or office. (Weight: 21 kgs, 115 volts, 91cm x 42 cm x 42 cm, requires only yearly servicing)

The Insurance and Commercial Solution to Floods and Fuel Spills No need to remove furniture or clothing. Remediate on the spot. pot. No filters. The LeVOCC 500 destroys VOC's, Mold, Bacteria, and Viruses within the unit itself and generates no new toxic gases. LeVOCC 500 is GreenSpec listed. In most cases, our trained staff restore a distressed home to normal function within 24 hours.

Outstanding Odour Removal

CALL US at (877) 204-5533 or visit www.levocc.com

March 2009 – Page 4

New owner for popular specialty lumber store

BY CATHERINE STUTT Woodworkers, carvers, and furniture makers throughout eastern Ontario can take a deep breath and stoke the fire in their workshops - O’Neill Specialty Lumber in Colborne is open for business. Retired teachers Norm and Kathy O’Neill along with their daughter Trish Davey operated the shop for years, and it quickly became a favourite destination for amateur and professional wood artists, specialty contractors, and retail customers looking for something a little more personal than typical big

box store fare. Much to the dismay of a very faithful following, the O’Neills decided to close shop at the end of October 2008 if they couldn’t find a buyer for the business. This wasn’t simply a store – this was a community. A visit with Trish while selecting walnut or cherry was part of the process and added personality to the project. Chatting with Paul and Al at the mill was integral to William O’Kane the personality of the piece, because no self respecting woodworker would bring home lumber without the chance to see the sawyers in action. Watching Norm with a scaling ruler and catching up on the kids and grandkids with Kathy added a certain substance to the artistry. Throughout eastern Ontario and beyond, furniture, trim, shutters, and carvings have a little extra indefinable something known only to the craftsman. Accepting these lofty laurels, since he too is a long time customer, Willie O’Kane purchased the popular store and pledged to

continue the excellent service he experienced from the extended O’Neill family. “I always had a notion I’d like to have a mill of my own and when Norm said he was closing if he couldn’t find a buyer, I didn’t like the thought I wouldn’t be able to come here any more,” he said, taking a break from building a set of cherry stairs for a customer. His father, Joe continued dressing a custom order, and is a constant presence in the shop. “This is an important local resource to a lot of people. I didn’t want to travel to find specialty lumber, and I knew other customers felt the same way.” A gifted craftsman, Willie grew up in nearby Castleton and is a self-taught woodworker with 12 years of experience. He specializes in stairs, and enjoys a challenge. His photo album includes a set of oak stairs with individually turned balusters and hand-carved railings. “We offer full custom cabinetry and woodworking in our shop as well as rough hewn or dressed specialty lumber.” That’s a modest interpretation. O’Neill Specialty Lumber is a shop that assaults the senses. From the sound of planers and jointers dressing wood to the smell of cherry, maple, and cedar shavings, it’s a delight for woodworkers and neophytes alike. Running a hand over the wood is irresistible, particularly with the figured walnut, spalted

maple, and intricately veined box elder. The warehouse is lined with bin after bin of local species, from ash to walnut. Virtually all of the lumber is harvested within a 100 km radius, from suppliers who have enjoyed a lengthy relationship with the business. “Right now, we’re experiencing a lot of luck with local farmers who are long time customers of Norm’s and are working with me to keep a good supply of product,” said Willie. “We’re examining other markets and will evaluate them, but we like supporting and developing the local supply chain. It’s important to our customers that the lumber they use is of local origin.” By far, red oak is the most popular commodity, followed by maple and pine, but the list of species is vast. From aromatic cedar to sycamore to butternut and basswood, the warehouse is fully stocked, and Willie has plans for the annex. “I really want to give local artists a display space, and I have some tentative plans to develop opportunities for my customers. We have a lot of carvers from Roseneath, woodturners from Quinte,

and artists from the Brighton Arts Council. I want to support those groups and see if I can provide a gallery for them.” Until the annex is developed, customers are simply grateful they still have the chance to visit their home away from home – a family run speciality lumber shop continuing in the tradition of the O’Neill family, with the renewed energy of Willie O’Kane. O’Neill Specialty Lumber is open 8 to 5 Monday to Friday and Saturdays until noon. The store number is 905.355.2988 and a website is in development at www.specialylumber.ca.

Keeping the Construction Industry informed in eastern Ontario! We are off and running. Don’t miss your chance to showcase your business in our next issue! For more information, call Rick Fraser at 613-475-0255, or email rfraser@indynews.ca.

Joe O’Kane

March 2009 – Page 5

Picton’s new roundabout a first on a provincial highway BY CATHERINE STUTT Prince Edward County is once again making history – this time by converting the hazardous intersection at County Road 1 and Hwy. 33 into a roundabout. In an area rich with United Empire Loyalists, it’s quite fitting the modern roundabout comes from a British design introduced in the early 1960s, updated and customized for the specific uses unique to Prince Edward County. A roundabout differs greatly from a traffic circle. Drivers attempting to enter the roundabout must yield to those already in the pattern. In a traffic circle, drivers entering the circle have the right of way, often causing a near stand still for those attempting to exit. The intersection, just west of Picton, was identified as needing improvement and better traffic control almost a decade ago, due to the sharp angle where County Road 1 meets Hwy. 33. “It was deficient and confusing,” said MTO project engineer Dan Solomon. “In 2006 we drew up preliminary plans with a choice of signalizing the intersection, realigning it to two T intersections from the north and south, or building a roundabout.” “We discovered the roundabout was the most efficient in terms of capacity, safety, and the environment. Traffic growth will not exceed the capacity of the roundabout; the design substantially reduces delays which means less engine idling compared to full stops at lights; and accidents in a roundabout tend to be sideswipes rather than head on or T-bone collisions.” Data supplied by the MTO show roundabouts reduce all types of crashes by an average of 36 per cent, injury crashes by 76 per cent, and fatalities by 90 per cent. Studies indicate roundabouts reduced carbon monoxide emissions by up to 37 per cent, nitrous oxide by up to 34 per cent and hydro carbon emissions by 42 per cent. A

roundabout can reduce fuel consumption by 30 per cent. “At a traditional intersection, drivers have to stop for a red light or stop sign, even if there is no other trafﬁc,” noted Mr. Solomon. “At a roundabout, they have to reduce their speed but in most cases continue in motion.” Although the roundabout will cost about $2 million to construct, compared to $1 million

“We discovered the roundabout was the most efficient in terms of capacity, safety and the environment.” for a traditional intersection, Mr. Solomon stated this is the best choice. “When we factor in the value of a life, we’re very content with this decision.” “This is the first roundabout the MTO has designed so there is a lot of attention and we have to make it foolproof. We implemented a very proactive education process for the public. This is the Cadillac of roundabouts,” promised Steve McMullen, contracts control officer with the Ministry of Transportation Ontario Eastern Region (MTO). The MTO partnered with municipal authorities and created posters, pamphlets, and fliers for distribution through tax bills, tourist information sites, and Sand Banks Provincial Park. The Prince Edward County detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police assisted with a video starring Constable Nicole Lott, the community services officer. From all accounts, these steps are necessary. “We talked to representatives from a number of municipalities with round-

abouts, and all said they wish they’d done more to educate the public,” explained Mr. McMullen. “The MTO Eastern Region is setting the standards on signing and staging and that will help with future roundabout projects.” Much of the information is conveyed through public meetings, which became an important learning process for the designers as well as the citizens. Consultants and ministry designers quickly learned the Picton roundabout would face unique demands. “We factored in large agricultural vehicles and subsequently increased the footprint,” explained Mr. McMullen. “It could have been more compact in a less agriculturally oriented area, but the sheer size of equipment dictated the design, and diameter is critical to its success.” Under construction by Lafarge Paving and Construction (Eastern) Ontario Limited of Belleville, all work is slated for completion by the summer of 2009. During construction, a pilot vehicle will lead trafﬁc through the zone. “At no time will drivers have the option of short cuts through the roundabout,”

stressed Brandy Duhaime, regional communications coordinator for the MTO. “We’re very aware this is new to

“At no time will drivers have the option of short cuts.” everyone, and we don’t want to encourage any habits we’ll have to break when the roundabout is fully functional.” The roundabout will measure 26 metres in diameter

with an additional three metre apron. Extensive curbing in the centre hub as well as on approach islands will consume $250,000 of concrete, which includes 1,100 m2 for the island caps and 1,800 m of curbs. By the time the Lafarge crews are ﬁnished, they will have deposited 17,000 tonnes of granular, 7,000 m3 of earth, and 15,000 m2 of asphalt. Early soils testing indicated the contractor would have to deal with wet silty material, but the actual conditions were a surprise. “It was so wet we couldn’t walk on it,” recalled Continued on next page

www.andersonequipment.ca

RR 2, Picton, ON, K0K 2T0 771 Wallbridge Loyalist Rd. RR5, Belleville, ON, K8N 4Z5 Phone (613) 476 6597 Phone (613) 969 6246 Fax (613) 476 1594 Fax (613) 969 1653

March 2009 – Page 6

Continued from previous page Mr. McMullen. “We opted to install a geotextile membrane.” Most of the work, including excavation and realignment of the northeast approach was completed in the fall of 2008, and work will resume as soon as possible in the spring. The hub will be filled with small shrubs, more for safety than aesthetics. “We’re committed to extensive beautification of the roundabout, using more than 1,000 ornamental grasses, plus trees and shrubs,” said Mr. McMullen. “The plantings in the centre serve as a visual clue. We have video from other municipalities of people driving straight through the intersection because they didn’t see the signs and the curbs.” At night the foliage will diffuse headlights from oncoming traffic, providing an indicator to drivers of the barrier ahead. The intersection will boast 15

Right: Addressing drainage challenges during the first stage of construction. Far right: OPP Constable Nicole Lott played an active role in the public education campaign. Bottom: Arial view of the hazardous intersection at County Road 1 and Highway 33.

lights, up significantly from the current four. “It will be very well illuminated, very attractive, and much safer,” predicted Mr. Solomon. Actively involved in the public education program for several months, Constable Lott doesn’t predict a need for a lot of enforcement. “There’ll be a learning curve, but I don’t foresee problems. We’ll work with the public and we understand it’s a new traffic control device for all of us, but we’re

“Typically any accidents at that intersection involve injuries and fatalities and we’re confident the roundabout will result in a huge improvement.” looking forward to a safer intersection. Typically any accidents at that intersection involve injuries and fatalities and we’re confident the roundabout will result in a huge improvement.” Constable Lott reported there

is no existing legislation in the Highway Traffic Act specific to roundabout, but other sections cover all bases, and the Drivers’ Handbook now includes a section on navigating the device. “The roundabout will have more

than adequate signage, so we can rely on disobey sign, as well as fail to signal, and careless driving, but our primary goal is to educate the public well enough that enforcement isn’t an issue.” The next benchmark is another public meeting in March, resuming construction in the spring, and opening Ontario’s first roundabout on a provincial highway in late June.

Delivering unique solutions for clients

March 2009 – Page 8

Delivering unique solutions for clients

Southside gymnasium at CFB Trenton

BY CATHERINE STUTT To perfect the science of the design/build discipline, a company has to appreciate balance at its most nascent form. The principles at TaskForce Engineering have that mastered, from the projects they pursue to the specific talents of the owners of the company, to their place in the industry and in the community. Peter Kempenaar studied architectural technology, worked for an architectural firm in Calgary, and met his business partner while with a design/ build firm in Belleville. Dave Brown is a professional engineer, and understands how to take an architectural design and turn it into a functional structure. Both TaskForce partners appreciate the importance of their unique talents, understand the work intuitively, and communicate with each other and their clients effectively. They also realize the need to approach

business with a sense of balance geared to the vagaries of economic cycles. “We’re very deliberate about controlling sustainable overhead and markets,” explained Mr. Kempenaar. “We’ve en-

“Local firms offer an advantage because we know the local construction infrastructure...” joyed healthy growth over the last 15 years and developed a comfort zone in the size of the company and the direction of our market. We made the right moves and choices to anticipate economic cycles and we’re weathering the current downturn. We’re well positioned to meet those challenges.”

Mr. Kempenaar is a realist and understands all design/build and engineering firms are facing a significant decline in the amount of work combined with stiffer competition, but remains confident. “A lot of our work comes from past clients and referrals so it doesn’t involve tenders and competition. We provide great value and will get the job done,

always looking after our client’s interests.” TaskForce’s core market is industrial, commercial, recreational, and institutional building, and within this broad sector prides itself on developing positive relationships with subtrades and suppliers. “We seek out people who share our standards and level of quality,” said Mr. Kempenaar. “This whole business is a team effort from the building owner to the subtrades and to succeed we need to surround ourselves with companies offering competitively priced goods and services and good value for the money. We have long standing relationships with the subtrades in this area because we recognize the important role they have in every project.” “An example of this is our relationship with Steelway Building Systems, the leading Canadian Manufacturer of complete pre-engineered buildings. Their state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities located right here in Ontario combined with quality products that are second to none in the industry provide us with a huge advantage.” As is the case with most area construction firms, TaskForce has worked closely with Defence

Construction Canada at nearby Canadian Forces Base Trenton. Not all firms, however, have a 15 year history at the Base. “Contracts at the base have been part of our mix for years,” reported Mr. Kempenaar.

“We made the right moves and choices to anticipate economic cycles...” “CFB Trenton and Defence Construction Canada are a major component of the local construction scene. The $500 million injection from the recapitalization will really enhance opportunities for the construction sector by attracting more construction companies and suppliers. The local companies have a competitive advantage – many have been working at the base and have long standing relationships.” “Local firms offer an advantage because we know the local construction infrastructure; we Continued on next page

Baltimore Recreation Centre

March 2009 – Page 9 Continued from previous page

Shoppers Drug Mart in Oshawa

have a local workforce, and a familiarity with the local subtrades. We bring understanding and experience and that provides a comfort level. At TaskForce, we pride ourselves on delivering quality work on time and on budget. DCC is diligent in maintaining contracts. If there are areas where the critical path milestone dates haven’t been met, they want an explanation and a plan.” Over the years, TaskForce has completed more than 20 projects at CFB Trenton, including the Airbus Configuration

Hangar, which allows crews to exchange the configuration kits from cargo to passenger to VIP platforms while protecting access hatches and material from the elements. TaskForce designed and implemented the switch-out processing equipment. The company also built the 40,000 sq. ft. Disaster Assistance Response Team warehouse and the adjacent Central Medical Equipment Depot for Disaster Assistance Medical supplies. In addition to Continued on next page

March 2009 – Page 3

Prince Edward County Economic diversity with a rich agricultural heritage BY CATHERINE STUTT With a maturing tourism economy, healthy construction sector, thriving agricultural presence, and colourful history, Prince Edward County has an enviably diverse economy. From United Empire Loyalist re-enactments to a designation as Ontario’s newest wine region, the County (never ever the island) has a cachet transcending generations. By all accounts, this is just the beginning. At just over 400 square miles, the County has a permanent population of 25,500 spread throughout 12,055 households, although with each monthly building report the number grows. There are 700 miles of roads criss-crossing through farm fields, vineyards, quaint villages, and nature preserves. A 500-mile shoreline that has welcomed immigrants, pirates, rumrunners, and sportsmen for hundreds of years now offers access to two of the largest baymouth sandbars in the world, hidden beaches, rocky shoals, and a diving paradise where shipwrecks await. Just when it appears those staid family farms are disappearing under grapevines and foundations, a few numbers tell the real story. In 2006, 770 farms produced almost $77 million in crops and employed nine per cent of the County’s workforce. Each year viticulture increases its presence on the County, bringing new prosperity. In 2000, 20 acres were used for grape production to support one winery. Now more than 50 grape growers and 14 wineries represent an investment of over $30 million, and 600 acres are dedicated to grape production. The economy is as diverse as every other aspect of the County, and shares another characteristic with the population – it is constantly evolving, looking for new opportunities while respecting its rich heritage.

“People are coming here from all over the world,” noted Craig Desjardins, executive director of the Prince Edward Lennox and Addington Community Futures Development Corporation (PELA CFDC). “We not only want them to live here, we want them to do commerce here, we want them to add jobs and create prosperity.” “Our scale of economy is different. We’re off the 401 corridor so it’s a challenge to draw manufacturing but people want to live here so we have to create opportunities for knowledge workers – those who are highly educated, highly skilled, and expect a high income. We need to create opportunities for young people to return after university and make a decent living. We need to continually send the message Prince Edward County is open for business and we’re thinking beyond traditional lines,” said Mr. Desjardins. The County is off to a good start in 2009. PELA CFDC is a commercial anchor in The Edward, at 280 Main Street (see cover article) and created a business hub in its offices. “We recognized several entities needed part time office space supported by full time staff, and there was a pent up demand from groups who didn’t have a lot of financial resources but needed space and shared synergies,” explained Mr. Desjardins. “We worked closely with the Bake family during the planning stages of The Edward and it grew from a two commercial floors into a six storey mixed use building. We’d done our research and knew there was a demand for condos in the town centre; we knew the municipality was facing challenges and the prospect of constructing a $7 to $9 million town hall; we knew there were a lot of organizations who could use a little space and a lot of networking. We were able to bring it all together in 4,200 sq. ft. in The Edward.”

As the pieces came together, the orchestration paid off in a big way for Picton and the stakeholders. “With our 10 year commitment, we leveraged an $8 million architectural show piece contributing taxes and revitalizing the downtown core, with people walking, living, visiting, and doing business. All of a sudden, in the middle of winter,

“We not only want them to live here, we want them to do commerce here, we want them to add jobs andcreate prosperity.” there are 100 more people on the main street each day.” A side benefit, one unforeseen but appreciated by Mr. Desjardins, is the clear line of communication. “There is so much networking done between when we arrive in the morning and when we open the doors at 8:30, and at lunch. We all pool our resources and share our knowledge. One of us might have a press release or communiqué on something interesting to another tenant. It’s such an efficient and open concept.” In addition to PELA CFDC and the building, planning, and economic development departments of the County, The Edward is home to august corporate tenants. Member of Parliament for Prince Edward Hastings Daryl Kramp keeps an office in the building, as do the Picton Business Improvement Area, the Prince Edward County Arts Council, the Prince Edward County Wine Growers Association, the Small Business Centre, and the special projects division of the Economic Development Corporation. As Mr. Desjardins notes, “Many of

these organizations are centred elsewhere but have important business to conduct in Prince Edward County. They can’t always discuss personal issues in a coffee shop.” All share reception and meeting rooms with PELA CFDC, a lunch bar, and a common message. “This professional setting is integral to privacy and image,” continued Mr. Desjardins. “It says to investors that Prince Edward County has arrived. It’s an incredible first impression followed by professional integrated services. We’re all selling the product of Prince Edward County and we’re seeing increased sophistication and growth even in a tough economy.” A carefully crafted approach rooted in research helps turn ideas into success. PELA CFDC and the Queens University School of Business created a strategic alliance to create the Institute for Rural Development to define and interpret the wealth of disconnected numbers available from numerous sources. “We found it was hard to translate meaningful data into information and knowledge,” said Mr. Desjardins, who holds an MBA from Queens. “We studied health care, networking, and rural issues with worldwide experts. We found Prince Edward County is one of the oldest demographic communities. That greatly impacts health care, house design, services, retailers, purchasing, and patterns. It changes a society and we have to provide that crucial information. We then turned insight into opportunity.” Mr. Desjardins credits the wisdom and experience of the

Craig Desjardins

PELA CFDC board of directors for the organization’s success. “We have a wealth of human capital at our meetings. We have former deputy ministers, ambassadors, and captains of industry who all want to continue to contribute and bring so much to each meeting. It shows we have people coming into the community who are active and have incredible skills to harvest. We need to connect with these people; they’re worth a fortune to our community.” “Agriculture is still the number one industry, but we’re redefining traditional farms. The core of our County heritage will always be agriculture but the lines blur. Is a vineyard agriculture or tourism? Is Fifth Town Cheese a retailer or agriculture? Everything is connected, and it’s our job to identify strengths, cultivate opportunities, and bring people together to make things happen. Growth can be frightening if it’s not controlled, but it can be as exciting as it is unnerving. The future looks amazing and it’s a great time to be in Prince Edward County.” “It has its own terroir, from the land to the people to the opportunities.”

March 2009 – Page 10 Continued from previous page designing and constructing the buildings, TaskForce developed task-specific material handling systems to ready the aircraft efficiently and provide a faster response time to disasters. TaskForce also built the RCAF Flyer Arena, the Southside Gym, the Rec Plex, the Flight Simulator building, the Engine Bay Hangar, and recently completed the Hercules Training Centre. A new Aerospace and Telecommunications Support Squadron (ATESS) headquarters is in the final stages, and work recently started on a new warehouse on the Base. While much of TaskForce’s work is delivered in the form of pre-engineered buildings, each has a custom component and when working with military applications, interesting challenges arise. “When we built the new simulator building, we couldn’t interrupt the schedule, so we literally built the new building over the top of the existing building, then went in and tore out the old structure,

all without interfering with ongoing training missions,” recalled Mr. Kempenaar. When the new Hercules training centre was conceived, Canadian Forces personnel realized the Hercules might not always be the focal point of training, so TaskForce designed and constructed a building with a removable wall. “We built three walls, installed the Hercules, then finished off the building,” explained Mr. Kempenaar. “If for any reason the Canadian Forces wants to install a different aircraft, they simply dismantle the wall and exchange planes.” “We are constantly relied upon to develop solutions for customers – things we’ve never been involved in but they rely on us because of our track record.” In 2003, customer demand led to the formation of Industrial TaskForce, a division working with manufacturers and industry to develop material handling and process systems.

Northside recereation facitily at CFB Trenton

“We offer complete solutions, beyond just the building,” stated Mr. Kempenaar. “Customers were looking for someone to

Proud to be associated with TaskForce

deliver more; someone involved in equipment installation and material handling; someone who installed mechanical and elec-

Call for a copy of our new digital corporate binder

Continued on page 11

Proud of our association with Task Force

905-670-1998 www.duron.ca Building Restoration Concrete Flooring Epoxy Flooring Waterproofing

trical infrastructure; someone who looks beyond the building and understands the need

905-355-3847 www.dekeyser.ca

Aggregates & Topsoil Limestone Products Water & Sewer Shoreline Rehabilitation, Design/Rebuild Full Underground Service Ditching, Roads & Parking Lots Site Development Ponds & Basements Environmental Contractors Demolition Septic System Design & Install Heavy Float Service

Marking 15 years of environmental stewardship through pristine remediation.

D.L. Services – leaders in hydrocarbon remediation

Excavating after a fuel oil spill is an invasive process necessary to mitigate the loss.

BY CATHERINE STUTT Bioremediation, microbes, hydrocarbons, polychlorinated biphenyls, slurries, and things that go bump in the middle of the night. It’s what Doug LeBlanc deals with on a daily basis, but on this winter day, Mr. LeBlanc doesn’t want to talk about all that. He wants to talk about apple pie, farming, hunting, and catching eels at his boyhood home. It’s not really a trip down memory lane; it’s more an explanation of Mr. LeBlanc’s approach to his work, his commitment to customers, their environment,

and our environment. Without a doubt, Mr. LeBlanc lives firmly in the future. In fact, he develops

“We’re living in medieval times environmentally.” leading edge technology to deal with environmental disasters, is a court-certified expert witness in hydrocarbon environmental remediation cases, and can absorb a position paper, a legal brief, and an insurance contract while

leading three conversations. Far from easily distracted, he has an uncanny ability to immediately grasp the big picture while dissecting the smallest details. At heart, though, he’s a unique type of environmentalist – one who understands the basic needs and simpler times in life, the importance of leaving a place better than he found it, and one who respects the wisdom of traditional methods and is driven to share them with a society he fears is taking the path of least resistance. “We’re living in medieval times environmentally,” he stresses.

“People follow instead of lead and they assume someone else has checked things out and everything’s safe. They see an approval sticker and it gives them comfort when in reality it just means they won’t electrocute themselves if they plug it in. We’re importing harmful products and using them in our homes and wonder why we’re sick. We’re using cleaning chemicals and filling our homes with glues and fabrics and materials that constantly off-gas toxins. We live in new homes that will take 20 years to achieve a healthy air quality and if they were subject to the same tests as a workplace, we couldn’t go near them, but we don’t think about those things, we don’t know about those things because we just assume someone somewhere said it was safe.” Far from raising unnecessary alarms, Mr. LeBlanc instead is dedicated to finding solutions for problems, particularly where existing solutions seem to multiply the damage, and he does so by returning to his deeply ingrained belief in a simple and honest approach. “We have to sit back and examine what our basic needs are in life. We need shelter, food, and in the winter, heat. Where I grew up, we raised all of our own beef and lamb; we fished and took only what we needed to feed the family, and grew our own vegetables, and made pies from apples

we grew in our orchard. When I left home at 17, we were still doing all of our farming with a team of oxen,” he recalled of his Nova Scotia childhood. “The land fed us and we fed the land and it was self-sustaining.” After retiring from military service in 1993, Mr. LeBlanc went back to the land, in a very real sense. He called upon

“We have to sit back and examine what our basic needs are in life.” his childhood on the farm, his decades of special training in environmental systems design and remediation, and above all, his abiding sense of fair play. He wears his personal code of honour like a badge, and believes knowledge without ethics is dangerous. As an environmental systems co-ordinator for the Canadian Forces in Canada and Europe, Mr. LeBlanc designed and oversaw the installation of

Continued on page DLS 3

Home heating oil discovered pooled around a foundation.

Continued from page DLS 1 water and wastewater treatment facilities, designed and instructed courses for all levels of enlisted and officer ranks on environmental remediation operations of underground fuel storage tank installations, and conducted failure analysis of hydro-electric dams, and irrigation systems. He helped design and construct water intake pipelines, generating stations, and bulk fuel storage tank farms

Poorly maintained or aging storage tanks are a common cause of residential fuel oil spills.

Proud of our association with DL Services and our heartiest congratulations on their 15 year Anniversary!

Tree Trimming & Removal Hazardous Trees & Lot Clearing Stump Removal

in the Northwest Territories, corrected the design of a water treatment plant in Nova Scotia, and designed continuous emissions monitoring systems for central heating systems exhaust gases at military bases across Canada. Upon retirement from the Canadian Forces, he hired three civilians to take over his duties and became the environmental Continued on next page

Frequent monitoring of nearby waterways tells the true story of a fuel oil spill.

Congratulations on DL Servicesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 15th Anniversary

905-355-3847 www.dekeyser.ca

March 2009 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Page 3

Continued from previous page manager for a Brighton-based contractor. After two years, he started D.L. Services, a company specializing in petroleum hydrocarbon remediation and began redeﬁning the method by which insurance companies deal with oil spills. “For years other companies have been telling insurance companies they can’t completely clean up a site after an oil spill. I’ve proved otherwise. In 1993, I recognized and set new standards. My company cleans to a non-detect status. That means no residual contamination, no hidden health risks, and no fear of changing standards that could result in litigation.” “For a long time, remediation contractors didn’t have to worry about vapours in the soil and air after an oil spill. I always did, otherwise the residents are subjected to continuous exposure, but now the regulations are more stringent.” Mr. LeBlanc cautions about expecting a magic elixir. “So many people don’t have the practical experience and don’t understand the science. They need to get their hands dirty, they need to start in the

ions Congraturlvaitces to DL Se 15th year for their

trenches and dig through the Someone who doesn’t live in layers until they’ve learned evyour house and drink your water erything about this industry.” is saying, “Trust me.” If it isn’t done right, it’s like a cancer that In the ﬁrst two years of his keeps spreading. If you didn’t post-military life, Mr. LeBlanc handled more than 200 remedi- have contamination before the spill, why do you have to live ation projects on contaminated with it now?” sites. After its launch in 1995, D.L. Services continued to remediate oil spills, primarily related to residential heating oil, and quickly became known as the leader in the industry, with more than 4,500 successful site projects completed. “We close every one of our ﬁles because we take levels down to non-detect,” stated Mr. LeBlanc. “I was labelled a maverick because I’ve always insisted on this standard; I was told the results I expected were too expensive or impossible, but I’ve been achieving them since 1993. My standards are what I want for myself. Many other consultants tell their clients low levels are acceptable. Floating booms are installed to contain oil spills.

Caduceon Enterprises Inc. Corporate Office & Laboratory 285 Dalton Ave., Kingston, ON K7K 6Z1 contactkingston@caduceonlabs.com Quotations Tel: (613) 544-2001 Fax: (613) 544-2770 sales@caduceonlabs.com Ottawa Branch 2378 Holly Lane, Ottawa, ON K1V 7P1 Tel: (613) 228-1145 contactottawa@caduceonlabs.com

March 2009 – Page 4

“For years, we proved we could return a contaminated site to pristine or non-detect levels and other consultants disagreed, and remediated only to what they determined were acceptable levels. Now the Ministry of the Environment has said if our

company can do it, everyone can achieve the same results.” D.L. Services has a unique approach backed by an unparalleled infrastructure. The company owns more than 100 mobile treatment units, designed in-house, and ready for Continued on next page

• Screened Topsoil • Dumptruck Rental • Crushed Gravel • Sand • Stone • Top Soil • Fill • Bulldozing • Excavating • Ponds • Demolition • Tile Beds • Shoreline Restoration 613-392-3917 • 17 Lester Rd., Trenton, Ontario www.scottshaulage.ca Congratulations to DL Services on 15 years in business!

facility on County Road 64 in Brighton doesn’t reveal the full scope of the enterprise. In addition to the MTUs, which are essentially trailer-contained pumping stations, the company has 50 portable ambient air filtration units, and all have their own Certificate of Approval (COA). Another COA allows the company to produce petroleum hydrocarbon degrading microbes for bioremediation, used in conjunction with the MTUs. This leading edge technology augments Mr. LeBlanc’s philosophy toward site remediation. “We believe leaving Both photos on this page: A custom solution is engineered for each spill, and containment systems specific to terrain are installed. acceptable levels of residual hydrocarContinued from previous page bons present leaves “We excel in the amount of measures exceed requirements a spill site subject to deployment literally the moment safety training and course hours and we ensure all necessary changes in legislation which in a call comes into the Brighton employees accumulate annusafety equipment is available at turn leaves the property owner office. Every staff member, all times, because safety on the exposed to potential future while possessing specific areas of ally. The value it brings to the company and individual is of site and in our facility is our top liability,” he explains, citing expertise, is trained extensively priority.” Ontario’s evolving brownfield under the direction of the owner great importance within the company’s structure. Our safety A first look at the D.L. Services standards. “A site remediated to of the company – Mr. LeBlanc.

acceptable levels in 2004 would be considered contaminated by 2008 numbers. A lot of remediation completed since 1986 should be revisited because a sale of the property could trigger litigation or additional remediation at a significant cost. There’s a fear of these new numbers in the industry. It’s going to open a can of worms, and there’s nowhere to hide. There’s a huge difference between historical contamination and a fresh spill.” How does D.L. Services protect its clients from future litigation? “We remediate to non-detect; we bring the property back to pre-spill condiContinued on next page

Congratulations to DL Services on their anniversary. from

Raise and Roll Buildings On-Site for Oil Spill Clean-Ups Relocate Buildings to New Sites Raising Roofs to Expand Commercial Buildings Raising Houses or Cottages to Install & Repair Foundations

E-Mail: info@CDSMovers.com (613) 836-1215 or 1-800-267-5516 8 Sweetnam Drive, Stittsville, ON K2S 1G2

Equipment Rentals Site Services Roads & Grading Earth & Rockfill

Building Excavation Snowplowing Ponds Utilities

Dig'N Dirt Ltd. 3621 Moreland Dixon Rd., Inverary, ON K0H 1X0 PHONE: 613-353-1606 FAX: 613-353-7995 March 2009 – Page 5

Continued from previous page tions,” simplified Mr. LeBlanc. “Most of my insurance clients can handle the truth; they know when we’re done they have no

“I believe strongly in diverting contaminated soil from landfills.” further liability or exposure. They do it right because they care about their policy holders and their insurers.”

This respected expert has suggestions for homeowners. “Read the policy and ask questions,” he urged. “Make sure there isn’t a pollution exclusion; ensure there is good liability – more than $1 million, and confirm the company will return the property to a pre-spill or pre-loss condition, even for unseen underground losses.” Mr. LeBlanc has another suggestion – one that demonstrates the transparent nature of his company. “Regardless if it’s us or another consultant, Continued on next page

ted a i c o s s a be Proud toDL Services. with

D.L. Services identifies natural water features and implements a plan to contain and remove contaminants.

Congrat u your 15th lations on Annivers ary.

Triaxle Dump Trucks & Pups Dump Trailers & Belly Dumps Roll-Off Trucks, Bins & Tag-a-Long Trailer 5-Axle Flatbed Trailers Crash Trucks & Traffic Control Office 613-395-2566 Bill Cooney Cell 613-848-4151 • Marty Cooney Cell 613-848-5519 • Trevor Cooney Cell 613-848-1841 Email williamtcooneyhaulage@bellnet.ca • 13 Carmel Road, PO Box 675, Stirling, ON K0K 3E0 March 2009 – Page 6

Continued from previous page always get a second opinion. If the homeowner didn’t hire the consultant, have the work independently reviewed. The policy should cover a second opinion.” This is not idle advice. “More than 60 per cent of our time is spent redoing other people’s work. Some insurers want the cheapest way of cleaning a site, and it simply isn’t good enough. We have the knowledge, the expertise, and the infrastructure. We issue timely reports on a pre-disclosed schedule. We welcome peer reviews and

independent testing, and when we show up at a site, we give the homeowner a package with our insurance, COA, and remediation guide. We are extremely open about our procedures.” Those consultants trying to disguise the extent of a spill should be warned, though. When D.L. Services steps in, no stone is left unturned. “We’ll get a report of a one litre loss and it turns out it’s 100 times that. We’ll see test results that are meaningless because they’re not drawn from potentially

contaminated sites. Testing rainwater simply produces a false

“We’re working on a program to accept and transfer municipal compost and yard waste.” reading from a safe site, but doesn’t tell the true story of soil conditions.”

Our congratulations to DL Services on their 15 th Anniversary.

(519) 368-7874 (519) 368-7965 Since 1973

FAX: (519) 368-5398 CELL: (519) 389-1411 EMAIL: kjc@bmts.com RR #2, Tiverton, ON N0G 2T0

Contracting, Trucking, Septic Systems, Excavation, Sand, Landscaping, Gravel, Fill, Topsoil, Grading

When this retired Chief Warrant Officer finds inadequate remediation or improper testing at a site, he doesn’t shy away from a confrontation. “I’ve heard all the stories and all the excuses. The military teaches people to take their punishment and do things right.” As remediation work increased, Mr. LeBlanc noticedanother alarming trend – the consumption of landfill capacity by contaminated soil. “It smothers a landfill, stopping decomposition, and introduces

contamination to the entire system.” It’s never enough for Mr. LeBlanc to simply recognize a problem – he has to develop a solution, so in May 2005 he started D.E.G. Environmental Inc. – a hydrocarbon contaminated soil treatment facility. The first of its kind in Ontario, it decontaminates petroleum hydrocarbon impacted soil, yielding healthy, nutrient-laden soil suitable for use in home gardens and agriculture, and clean aggregate. Since its inception, D.E.G. Continued on next page

Congratulations to DL Services on their 15th anniversary. A.S. Custom Contracting Ltd. ROSS BARRETT 41-A Elizabeth Street PO Box 1419 Brighton, ON K0K 1H0

Office: 613-475-3102 Cell: 613-921-0455 Fax: 613-475-2666 ASCC@cogeco.ca

EQUIPMENT RENTALS Excavators Vacuum Excavation Truck Hydraulic Demolition Hammer & Power Auger

Dump Trucks Bobcats Backhoes Trenchers Bulldozers Packers

We Guarantee Our Work March 2009 – Page 7

Continued from previous page Environmental diverted about 36,000 tonnes annually from landfills and is currently in the process of upgrading its CofA to allow 100,000 tonnes annually, at a maximum rate of 1,500 tonnes per day, with up to 40,000 tonnes onsite at any one time. “We turn otherwise harmful contaminants into environmentally friendly commodities commonly in demand by consumers. We are able to mitigate the additional risk these forms of contamination pose at landfill sites, and do so at competitive rates.” Originally housing two cells, the facility expanded to six, and now is expanding to 14 cells, with a greater purpose in mind. “We’re working on a program to accept and transfer municipal compost and yard waste, which we’ll mix with our soil to develop a much higher quality mixture.” The program has such potential that Mr. LeBlanc partnered with Andre Lefleche to launch Lefleche-LeBlanc Soil Recycling Inc. in Moose Creek near Cornwall. Currently rated for 150,000 tonnes, it will expand to 330,000 tonnes. The partners are working to design Ontario’s first landfill leachate

treatment plant in Moose Creek, and operate a bioreactor to produce methane, which if converted would meet the electricity needs of up to 1,000 homes. Work is underway on similar soil treatment facilities in Pickering, with an anticipated CofA for 100,000 tonnes, and X IT 21 Soil Recycling Inc. in Annapolis County, Nova Scotia is slated for start up in the fall of 2009, licensed for 35,000 tonnes. A Prince Edward Island facility is in development. “I believe strongly in diverting contaminated soil from landﬁlls,” said Mr. LeBlanc. “We created a facility

licensed to treat non-hazardous hydrocarbons from residential fuel leaks, gas station contamination, ruptured underground storage tanks, transformer leaks, and vehicle rollovers, which can create a lot of

volume. We’re under contract with major utilityiesand petroleum companies. Diversion drastically extends the life of a landﬁll where contaminants are not eliminated. Solution by dilution is not sound environmental

stewardship.” Soil remediation is only one part of the equation, and D.L. Services is dedicated to leaving a site pristine, which includes air quality. For years, disaster restoration ﬁrms used ozone Continued on next page

DL Services uses a combination of readily available and custom-designed materials to remediate petroleum-based spills.

DL Services

Congratulations on your 15th Anniversary www.lcollinsconst.com

Tri-County Well Drilling

Chad Mann 519-357-3015

Fax 519-357-3252 RR #2, Teeswater, ON March 2009 – Page 8

Specializing in well drilling, monitoring wells, well rehabilitation, well upgrades & abandonment, sand problems and water treatment systems. We carry a complete line of Goulds and Grundfos Pumps & accessories.

194 Prince Edward St., Brighton

519-529-7082

Phone/Fax: 613-475-0110 • Cell: 613-847-5772 Email: h20digger@aol.com

Continued from previous page generators to kill mould and rehabilitate air quality. “It causes cells to oxidize quickly,” explained Mr. LeBlanc. “The problem is, we’re also made of cellular tissue, and so while ozone generators were killing mould and bacteria, it was destroying lung tissue. We now know ozone is harmful, but it took legislators a long time to get there.” “The latest gadget in disaster restoration is the hydroxyl generator, which may be about 100 times worse than ozone. It’s used in medicine to kill

cancer cells and is very effective in very controlled situations. It’s a free radical and attaches itself to anything and immediately morphs into a new form. The problem is, once it starts killing, it indescriminantly kills all cells. If you have to create enough hydroxyls to kill mould on a windowsill, image what it’s doing to our bodies as we breathe it into our lungs and distribute it through our bloodstream.” Mr. LeBlanc reported hydroxyl generators have been in Canada for about six months now, and they’re very popular, because they work on mould, and he’s very frustrated no one is asking questions about long term effects. “There is a worldwide awareness of the dangers of mould to respiratory health. There is a tendency to grab at anything that works, but we need to think deeper. Ozone was first – it works great under water but kills human cells in the air. Hydroxyls may be worse and continue to pose a hazard long after the family moves back in. Monitoring wells are installed and frequently checked at spill sites. We’re very committed to

getting this warning out. We should not use anything that alters cellular chemical composition.” Enter LeVocc. With his brother Robert, Mr. LeBlanc researched the industry, falling back on their belief there was always a natural solution to a natural problem. “There are some solutions natural to our environment that solve the problem. Once we discovered LeVocc and researched it thoroughly, we acquired the North American distribution rights. It was the answer to air quality problems.” “Instead of generating harmful compounds, LeVocc offers the only patented process contaminant destroyer that kills or obliterates the widest range of contaminants from the air and from objects such as clothing and furniture. The LeVocc is the very best on the market and provides a safer work environment for commercial cleanup crews trying to deal with oil spills or damaged homes or buildings. We offer a

“A fleet of Mobile Treatment Units is always on standby, ready for immediate mobilization to a spill site.”

safer, faster, and more efficient cleanup method for homeowners and insurance providers alike. In addition to purifying the air of volatile organic compounds, bacteria, mould, and viruses, this is the ultimate odour control technology,” stated Mr. LeBlanc. In most cases, D.L. Services can restore a home’s air quality to normal function within 24 hours using a LeVocc unit, and yes, there is one in the LeBlanc home. It’s always a full commitment at D.L. Services and any of its subsidiaries and partner companies. There is not a

single product or process used commercially that Mr. LeBlanc wouldn’t use with his friends and family. Whether it’s remediating a fuel oil spill or correcting air quality problems, everything first has to pass Mr. LeBlanc’s test – is it the right thing to do, and can he put his name on the results. It’s an honour code that served him in his youth, in the military, and in his corporate life. He knows people trust his word, and regardless of all the technology, equipment, and qualifications, the most valuable aspect of D.L. Services is its integrity.

Proud of our association with DL Services Congratulations on 15 years!

Specializing in Farm, Industrial & Commercial

Brighton 613-475-1661

Brighton Cardlock now accepting VISA & Mastercard. Open 24/7 for all your gas & diesel needs.

Congrats on DL Services’ 15th! & Proud Supplier.

COMPLETE INDOOR AIR Q UALITY INVESTIGATIONS_REPORTING & CONSULTING_24/7 EMERGENCY RESPONSE_INITIAL INVESTIGATION & ASSESSMENT_TOXIC MOULD TESTING & LABORATORY ANALYSIS_ EVALUATION OF DATA & REPORT PREPARATION_CLEARANCE SAMPLING_ WATER TESTING_TRAINING & CERTIFIC ATION_THERMAL IMAGING SERVICES_WWW.INVIRONMENTAL.C A

March 2009 – Page 9