Drayton Community News February 5, 2016

Page 1

THE

SERVING THE MAPLETON COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY NEWS Volume 49 Issue 05

Drayton, Ontario

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Friday, February 5, 2016

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No A’s for politicians on Mapleton Township council report card

Skaters in Candy Land - The annual Weskate competition (Western Section of Skate Canada’s Central Ontario division) was held on Jan 30 and 31 at the PMD arena in Drayton. Over 300 skaters from 14 clubs, including Kincardine, Mount Forest, Durham and Walkerton, participated. The Drayton Skating Club won the bid to host the 2016 competition. Over 2,000 volunteer hours were put into the event. From left are Drayton Skating Club members Erin Schill, Kandice Roth, Julia Mantler, Evan Hills and Amy Cosens at the photo booth. The theme of the day was Candy Land. Organizers noted the stands were filled throughout the event. photo by Caroline Sealey More Weskate coverage on page 2.

Project still alive despite failure of 11th hour effort to include skate park in 2016 township budget by Patrick Raftis MAPLETON - While a last-minute attempt to have the Drayton skate park project included in the 2016 budget failed, Mapleton council left open the possibility the proposed facility could still be built this year. Councillor Michael Martin introduced a notice of motion at the Jan. 27 meeting to have the municipality contribute funding required to complete the project in the 2016 budget. Plans for the facility called for the one third of the estimated $100,000 cost to come from the municipality, with a third each to come from community fundraising and the Ontario Trillium Foundation. However the project has been in limbo since December, when the municipality learned its Trillium application was unsuccessful. Martin’s notice of motion called for council to up the township contribution to twothirds to get the project completed in 2016. Martin suggested the money be reallocated from within the proposed budget, so as not to add to the levy increase currently projected at just over 17 per cent in the draft

budget. With a vote to approve the budget scheduled for the next regular council meeting on Feb. 9, council passed a resolution waiving normal procedure and allowing immediate consideration of Martin’s motion. While conceding “the timing’s offâ€? on the motion, Martin said it was “borne out of a little bit of frustration personally, in that I really think this project needs to go somewhere ‌ I really think this is a project that’s gone on long enough.â€? Martin added, “I really would like to see this project get shovel in the ground and get this park up and going, otherwise honestly its going to be another year.â€? CAO Brad McRoberts said the question is “where do we find $33,000?â€? He added, “If there’s reserves in a park fund that we could draw from, that could be a fairly simple solution.â€? Treasurer Yufang Du advised council the township has a little over $50,000 in a parks reserve fund. “In order to get our tax increase down to 2.9 per cent (in the draft 2016 budget) we took some money out of our

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other reserve accounts. Are we going to be looking at a higher tax rate next year to replace those funds we didn’t put in reserve?� asked councillor Dennis Craven. McRoberts clarified the township did not take money out of reserves to lower the proposed increase, but rather deferred 2016 contributions to reserves. “We haven’t used reserves to reduce the tax rate,� he stressed. Craven also asked, “Is there any changes that we could make that would reduce that to a $66,000 skate park rather than $100,000?� “The concern I have is if we reduce it down to a smaller project, we basically would sacrifice the project. In the end you’re building something less than what you really want, just because that’s all the money you’ve got,� said McRoberts. “You could build something smaller. Would it meet what your community needs? Maybe not.� Mayor Neil Driscoll pointed out there are other options that could be investigated, including a suggestion offered at the Jan. 14 budget open

house that a skate park using portable ramps could be set up in the PMD arena parking lot. “We have to make sure we make the right decision for everybody,� said Driscoll. “I’ve got to answer emails as to why we’re not redoing the 6th this year, why we’re not redoing the 8th Line. It’s tough, but we’ve got to make a decision.� Martin suggested council reconsider its philosophy on projects of this nature, particularly the idea of relying too heavily on grant funding. “I think we should revisit using grants as part of a solution for these projects,� he stated. Councillor Marlene Ottens said she wished members of the Drayton Skatepark Committee were present so council could ask questions. She also said it might have been better if fundraising efforts had been directed to local farmers “instead of businesses in the community. “There’s a lot of money out there and just because you don’t live in town doesn’t mean you don’t participate in these things,� said Ottens. “Some people have said farmers aren’t Continued on page 3

Weekly Wag

id, rd always sa My report ca first and then ‘Jim finishes .’ ther students o e th ts p ru dis - Jim Carrey

by Patrick Raftis MAPLETON - Council here received some poor grades and nothing approaching an ‘A’ on the first Township of Mapleton Council Report Card. In October council members passed a resolution to conduct a survey aimed at obtaining feedback on their first year in office. At the Jan. 26 council meeting CAO Brad McRoberts reported a total of 55 survey responses were received, of which 44 were completed online. While a number of the questions aimed to gather information, some required responders to directly rate council, or council members, in various areas. Just over 34 per cent of respondents said they had contacted council within the past 12 months. Of those, about 57% felt their concern was handled “in a timely manner.� Just over 50% of respondents believe councillors are visible at public events, while about 42% aren’t sure and around 8% believe they are not visible. About 78% indicated they felt it important for council to be at public events. Asked if they felt individual council members were “accessible,� 67% felt Mayor Neil Driscoll was accessible, while 4% felt he was not and 28% indicated they “don’t know.� Councillor Michael Martin, scored the next highest, with 39% rating him accessible, while 61% didn’t know. Councillor Dennis Craven

was rated accessible by about 37%, while just under 10% said he was not and 54% were unsure. Councillor Marlene Ottens was considered accessible by 34%, while 4% felt she was not and 62% were unsure. Councillor Lori Woodham was rated accessible by 31%, with about 6% stating she was not and 63% unsure. Asked if they feel council is “open and transparentâ€? only 33% responded yes, with 44% saying no and 23% unsure. Some of the comments accompanying responses to this question (names were redacted in the report) included: - “Why was our CAO fired?â€?; - “Exactly what qualifications does director of public works have that would make him a good CAO?â€?; - “Re: replacement of senior positions (director of public works). What accountable/ transparent committee consists of the mayor and CAO only? ‌ Is the municipality again going to spend thousands of dollars on an HR consultant (up to $20,000) to promote someone internally ‌?â€?; - “No reasons/grounds given for the decision to double (and more) size of township works building; no reason/ grounds given for the decision to go with a design that cost at least $2 million more than comparable facilitiesâ€?; and - “As a taxpayer I do not believe there should be any closed session meetings. My personal opinion is if it’s Continued on page 3

Township hires new public works director by Patrick Raftis MAPLETON - The township announced the hiring of a new director of public works on Jan. 28. CAO Brad McRoberts says new director Jamie Morgan “comes with a wealth of knowledge and experience related to municipal public works operations.� Morgan, who was manager of operations for North Perth, also worked previously with the Town of Minto and Kitchener-Wilmot Hydro. Morgan takes over the position from McRoberts who was appointed Mapleton’s CAO

last November and has continued to handle the public works portfolio on an acting basis. Council authorized the hiring committee, consisting of McRoberts and Mayor Neil Driscoll, to spend up to $20,000 to hire a third party to provide recruitment services. McRoberts told the Community News in an email the municipality engaged the services of Nigel Bellchamber and Associates with an upset limit of $15,000. “It was a very thorough process and council is more than pleased to have Jamie join the Mapleton team,� said Driscoll.

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PAGE TWO The Community News, Friday, February 5, 2016

Listowel blanks Bethel

Skaters converge on Drayton Weskate action - The PMD arena was a busy place last weekend, as PAGEDrayton EIGHT The Community News, Friday, August 13, 2010 competition. the Skating Club hosted the regional Weskate PHOTOS FROM TOP: Drayton club skaters Erin Schill, left, earned a bronze medal in Star 5 Free Skate, while Julia Mantler, right, won gold in Star 4 Free Skate; Mallorie Jack of Drayton competes in Star 5 Team Elements; and Arthur Skating Club Special Olympians Natalie Stevanus and Lewis Cremasco take the ice. photos by Caroline Sealey.

Listowel 3 Bethel 0 Early in the first period, Phil Shantz took a shot, and Brad Grafz scored on a rebound to put Listowel on the board. The two combined for another goal in the third period as Shantz set up Grafz for a goal from a sharp angle. Less than a minute later, Listowel struck again as Shantz found the back of the net to put Listowel up 3-0. Both goalies played well in this low-scoring affair. Drayton 4 Missionary 2 skills confidence an Theand Mohle brothers atcomearly Tanis. binedage” to said openMs.the scoring: She to offers of back MYC’s Darren Cam,four to the of music the net. programs: Sunrise, Sunshine, Sunbeam and Drayton added to their lead Moonbeam. Children who later in the night when Rob complete most aadvanced DeWeerd the feathered pass to level of MYC areput well Herm Mulder who it inprethe pared back offor the early net. In intermediate the last minpiano or the study of ute of studies, the second period, Cam another instrument. Mohle got the puck at the red is defense, a pre-keyboard line,Sunrise split the and slid music andinmovement program the puck for his second goal that music of theteaches game. Not to be concepts outdone, through singing, rhythma goal and Darren Mohle notched games. This program is in the third period, assisted for by children ages 2 to 4 and develEric Dekkers and Jason Mohle. ops listening awareness, fine motor skills, social interaction, confidence and attention span. Children can easily attend with WELLINGTON COUNTY, a grandparent or caregiver, plus Wellington OPP are siblings can attend the warning class as about yet another phone scam well. thatThe occurred recently in a Sunshine keyboard program is county. geared towards neighbouring children ages 3½ and 4; thea The complainant received Sunbeam keyboard program telephone call from a male who toward ages 5 and and the was described as 6; having an Moonbeam keyboard program East Indian accent, police say. is for agescomplainant 7 through 9. was All “The three keyboard provided a caseprograms number inteand grate advised creative that there movement, was a warrhythm, singing, music theory rant for her arrest,” police statand for parent and ed incomposition a press release. child in a weekly one-hour sesThe complainant was sion. advised that she had two Participating in aherMYC options: either attend local class children develop RCMPhelps detachment immediately, or do nothing and get arrested on an immigration warrant. “The complainant did not leave her residence as she believed it to be a scam and

Missionary responded in the third period as Dylan Williams passed it to Curtis Bults, who fed Devin McGuire for a one timer from the point. Missionary cut into Drayton’s lead again when Pat Landman wrapped the puck around to Dustin Bults who buried a short-handed marker, but it was too little, too late. Floradale 2 Community 1 The first goal in the final game came in the second period as Javan Martin had a breakaway and slid the puck listening, reading, keeper fine and past the Community for gross motor,tally. socialGary skills and the opening Martin has been proven added a goal later intotheenhance period, children’s social walking out fromdevelopment the corner and learning a skills, improve and wristing shot that found memory and problem solving, the back of the net. andInbolster the third,confidence Communityand cut self-esteem. the lead in half, off the stick offers a of Ms. John Tanis Horst.also Assists went Music Pups program, which is to Kev Gingrich and Tony especially Martin. unique since it is a music program That was for as babies. closeThis as is a playful and creative Community would come music in this and classpreview, for parents firstmovement round playoff as with children ages newborn to Floradale prevailed with the age 4. Children one-goal win. are introduced to a wide variety of musical Submitted by Chris Metzger scales, tonal and rhythm patterns and instruments that help to stimulate musical growth. Each child participates at his or moments later heard her own level. To find out noise more comingPups fromand her to garage. about view class “She hear males. videos visitcould themusicclass.com speaking in whatsuccess was described The ultimate of any as an program East Indian MYC lies accent. behind She the teacher is and no was ableand scareMs. the Tanis men off exception to thatmales rule.leaving It’s obviobserved three in ous is an enthusiastic what she was described as a silver teacher who cares a great deal minivan.” for Police her students. remind residents “TheirImmigration struggles are Canada and my the struggles,” sheoperate states. in“And police do not this their triumphs are isequally trimanner. “If there an immiumphant for me.” gration issue, you should have For more visit received priorinformation written knowlwww.myc.com, email edge about it and not just tanisa cold cowan.myc@sympatico.ca or phone call telling you that you call need519-638-5715. to respond immediately. If you’re not sure, call police.” For further information on this and other scams, visit www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm.

MAPLETON BUSINESS PROFILE Trades & Services Music for Young Children aids development, improves self esteem

Tanis Cowan knew a great MYC’s interactive system and engages parents music opportunity when she motivates H;DEL7J?EDI RENOVATIONS saw it five years ago, after and children, nurturing family +andADDITIONS delivering valuable being introduced to a unique bonds! 7::?J?EDI experiences while program called Music for co-learning +'/$,).$+(*( 519.638.5242 developing a firm, fundamental Young 9 : Children H><C 7(MYC). J>A9 +'/$-'&$)&/519.710.3097 of music. Having taught private piano understanding A unique aspect of MYC is lessons for 15 years, Ms. Tanis, as her students call her, was the parent learns along with the looking to expand her teaching child because they are so horizons and her music studio, involved. In fact, Ms. Tanis credits the success of the proand found it through MYC. Ms. Tanis recognized the gram to the parents of her stuprogram’s potential since it had dents. “I am the teacher once a never been offered in Drayton, it was fun for students, parents week; they are the at-home and teacher, and it offered a ‘coach’ several days a week,” piano-keyboard program for she said. An initial goal for each of children as young as 3½ in a Ms. Tanis’ students is to develgroup setting. “I loved the idea of group op the happy habit of practiclessons, since it’s always more ing. She encourages her stufun to explore and learn in a dents to practice by giving a group, regardless of the topic,” special “super duper” sticker each week. explained Ms. Tanis. “Practicing doesGENERAL not need to She also liked that it was a 15 minutes a day program that was tested, tried be long; 10 toCONTRACTOR and true, being taught by more to start,” she said. Ms. Tanis’ RESIDENTIAL creativity shines than 800 teachers to over 24,000 students on three differ- through by offering several ent continents and touting extra practice incentives COMMERCIAL P 519-638-5462 DAVID MARTIN year to ensure Canadian origins, being found- throughout the 8012 8th Line students attain their musical ed in 1980. C 519-895-6234 RR#2 students have colMYC’s mission statement goals. OnceAGRICULTURAL F 519-638-3833 ONthe best isDrayton, to “provide quality lected enough stickers on their N0G education 1P0 thermomemusic to young chil- “happy practice NEW BUILDINGS dren by blending pleasure ters,” they have a party. This Check out our the website: the 2010 and the joy of music making year, to celebrate RENOVATIONS www.stirtonconstruction.ca with sound instruction.” Olympics, students earned

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Festive fun - Students at Music for Young Children enjoy a Christmas concert every year. submitted photo paper mittens for five happy practices. The mittens were placed on the studio wall in the shape of the 5 Olympic rings. When the rings were complete students enjoyed an Olympics music class. This past year Ms. Tanis encouraged the students not only to practice but also to think of others, by practicing for pennies. Once the pennies were all collected they were donated to Camp Bucko, for burn victims. For the upcoming year she is planning two new incentives; a “Tree of Thanks” incentive around Thanksgiving time and a “Seed Incentive” in the

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spring. Of course, special holidays are incorporated into Ms. Tanis’ MYC classes, such as Canada Music Week, Christmas, Valentine’s Day and Easter. Theme days are planned as well. Throughout the year her students participate in a Christmas concert, and a spring recital and have the option to participate in the Palmerston Canada Music Week Festival and the Drayton Music Festival. “Children are so receptive to music that it makes sense to use this medium to spark their creativity and develop their

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The Community News, Friday, February 5, 2016 PAGE THREE

Flower shows part of local society’s rich history Moorefield and District Horticultural Society celebrating 90 years

by Caroline Sealey MOOREFIELD - In celebration of its 90th anniversary the Moorefield and District Horticultural Society is planning a number of community events during 2016. Digging through the society’s archives, dating back to 1926, uncovers the grassroots beginnings of the organization. This article covers some happenings from 1926 to 1950. The Moorefield Society held its first annual meeting on Jan. 3, 1928, two years after its inception. Mrs. McKay was appointed chairperson with Mrs. Campbell and Mr. Hattatt as auditors. To encourage an increase in membership, a prize was given to the member who recruited the most new members that year. In 1931 Mrs. Robb served as president with Mrs. Sara Wildfang and Mrs. R. Stricker sharing the duties of the office of vice-president. By 1932 membership was at 31, down from the original 39 members. Membership fees remained at $1. Income reported in 1933 was $166 with expenses at $164. Some executive positions in the society received a small stipend for their hard work. In 1927 treasurer Lorna Hamilton was paid $5 for her efforts throughout 1926. By 1932 the treasurer was recognized with salary of $15. Railway expenses were paid for two members to attend a convention in Toronto in 1939.

Records indicate Mrs. Stan Johnson received an award for service to the horticultural society. Flower shows have been a consistent event, held each year with the exceptions of 1928 and 1935. Prizes for displays were not given until 1936. In June of the same year, a tulip show was held at the home of Mrs. Fowler. First and second places in the show went to Mrs. R. Wildfang and Mrs. R.S. Johnston. The evening ended with a violin solo by Miss B. Wildfang. Aside from the regular activities of the society, a committee was formed in March of 1927 to plan flower beds in Moorefield and area. As a result of the committee’s work, shrubs and flowers were planted at the Moorefield Hall and Bethesda Cemetery in 1941. More plantings were done at the park, three schools and three churches in the 1950s. The organization’s first fundraising event was a euchre and dance in 1934. Admission was 15 cents or two for 25 cents, with profit totalling $18 for the evening. The horticultural society is asking anyone in the community with pictures, newspaper clippings, newsletters, ribbons or other artifacts from the society’s past 90 years (1926-2015) to contact Linda Timmerman at 519-638-3021. Pictures showing past horticultural events and people involved are needed for displays at local events.

Junior exhibitors - As part of the Moorefield and District Horticultural Society’s 90th anniversary celebration members are seeking memorabilia like this photo from the society’s past. Pictured are Lindsay and Erin Tilker and their entries in the Junior Horticulture Flower Show in 1994. Contact Linda Timmerman at 519-638-3021 for more information. submitted photo

Ottens challenges chicken farmers to make donations to local skate park FROM PAGE ONE paying their fair share of taxes, but maybe they’d be willing to donate to some of these projects,” she added. Driscoll said he saw merit in the idea. “Maybe lay off the business and go to, maybe not even just farmers, but personal individuals,” he suggested. “Our businesses get asked every week or every month for more money,” observed Craven, adding “farmers are businesses too.” “I challenge every chicken farmer in Mapleton to donate to the skate park,” stated Ottens, who lives on a local broiler and cash crop operation with her husband, John. Councillor Lori Woodham agreed additional fundraising might be the way to go. “If they fundraise for half, maybe we could contribute the other half,” she said. “Unfortunately the way this model was, of hinging on this grant, I don’t feel comfortable going ahead.” Craven pointed out “part of reason we’re not getting this grant money is there are other municipalities worse off than us. If we go ahead and com-

plete the skate board park … will the Trillium people say ‘Well they got enough for that one,’ will they say we’ve got enough for the next application too?” “No that’s not a fair comment,” said Driscoll. “Don’t even go there.” Martin said, “I think enough people put enough time in for this that if we have the capacity to get it built we should go ahead.” Woodham asked if the motion was defeated if it could be revisited even after the budget is passed, “since it’s coming from reserves.” “This doesn’t stop the process of communicating with this group,” said Driscoll, adding the funding picture could change “If the chicken farmers ended up picking up on Marlene’s challenge.” “If this is defeated now, there’s no treason it couldn’t’ come back at some future date,” McRoberts confirmed. A resolution that the township draw $33,000 from reserves to make an additional one-third contribution to the proposed skate park was defeated, with only Martin voting in favour.

Mapleton council report cards draws 55 responses FROM PAGE ONE behind closed doors, council is not being open and transparent.” When asked “Does council communicate with the public well?” 40% said yes, 42% said no, and about 17% were unsure. In response to another question, 48% indicated they did not believe council is making decisions that are in the best interest of the community/public, while 36% believe they are and 16% don’t know. Some of the comments accompanying the responses to this question included: - “Taxes keep going up and up. We had a great CAO and for some unknown reason she was fired.”; - “When council members are approving reports/allocation of funds perhaps they should insist justification for expenditures are provided and view the expenditures as (if) they were spending their own money and running a fiscally responsible business.”; - “From what I have read in the newspaper, it appears that council is basing some decisions on what is good for all taxpayers not just one person’s concerns. Feel there is a desire to spend money wisely.”; - “I think it is making decisions best for rural public.”; - “I would like to hope that they are.”; and

- “It’s hard to tell how council is doing as they all seem to follow whatever the mayor has to say.” Asked to rate council’s overall performance, about 13% of respondents indicated they were very satisfied, 26% were satisfied, 34% were neither satisfied nor dissatisfied, 19% were dissatisfied and 8% were very dissatisfied. Final comments in the survey included: - “Perhaps council should be more concerned with the fiscal responsibility which they have been entrusted with rather than the importance of seeing them out at public events.”; - “All the money is spent in Drayton and Moorefield. The people in the country get very little.”; - “I am a landlord who owns two houses in Drayton and pay property taxes to the Township of Mapleton. I live in Kitchener and never hear of any of the things you as a council discuss … do not even know when your council meetings are or where they are held.”; - “They are trying to clean up a mess!”; - “Quit wasting (money) on consultants - paying for second consultant to find works director after consultant for CAO?”; - “Start taxing farms at the full value of property. It is obscene that farmers only

GREGG DAVIDSON County Councillor, Ward 2 Mapleton

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Wellington County Council has asked staff to prepare cost implications comparing weekly to bi-weekly waste collection, including the addition of rural collection

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pay 25% of the accessed value. Lobby the province to change this taxation formula ... Farmers pay up! There are numerous millionaire farmers within Mapleton.”; and - “You seem to be getting more done in shorter amounts of time. Bravo.” In his report, McRoberts advised council to keep in mind when considering the results that the 55 respondents represent only 0.5% of Mapleton’s population and 0.7% of eligible voters. Also he noted, “people who feel satisfied tend not to complete surveys.” Driscoll said he felt the survey “was a great initiative,” adding, “If you do not ask you will not find out.” “I enjoyed the survey I appreciate that 52 people took the time to fill it out,” said Martin. “For me it just shows we can always do a better job

of communicating.” “I can echo that. I don’t think there were any surprises in there to me,” said Craven. With the majority of respondents perceiving a lack of transparency, Woodham suggested posting additional information and/or redesigning the township’s website to improve access to information. Ottens noted local citizens seem to respond well to receiving information directly, as they did at the Jan. 14 budget open house meeting in Moorefield. “When given answers to questions there was a lot of, ‘Oh I see,’ whether they liked it or not,” she commented. Driscoll said he felt council should set aside time to review the survey results together and provide a response to each question raised. Council received the report for information.

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Moorefield, ON

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PAGE FOUR The Community News, Friday, February 5, 2016

Letter to the Editor

THE

COMMUNITY NEWS Published by W.H.A. Publications Limited P.O. Box 189, Drayton, Ontario, N0G 1P0 24 Wood St., Unit B, Drayton (inside Studio Factor) Telephone 519-638-3066 Fax 519-638-2875 drayton@wellingtonadvertiser.com Published on Fridays Deadline: Monday at 10am Subscriptions $52 plus HST in Canada W.H. Adsett, Publisher Chris Daponte, Editor Patrick Raftis, Reporter Caroline Sealey, Office Manager Alicia Roza, Graphic Designer

GENERAL POLICY

Persons wishing information regarding circulation, rates and additional service, etc. should feel free to contact the staff. The Publisher accepts responsibility for claims and honours agreements made by himself or by regular staff on his behalf. No responsibility is accepted for actions of persons not in the employ of the paper, or otherwise over whom the Publisher has no control. All advertising accepted is done so in good faith. Advertising is accepted on the condition that, in the event of typographical error, that portion of the advertising space occupied by the erroneous item, together with a reasonable allowances for signatures, will not be charged for, but the balance of the advertisements will be paid for at the applicable rate. In the event of a typographical error advertising goods or services at a wrong price, goods or services may not be sold. Advertising is merely an offer to sell, and may be withdrawn at any time.

Ontario Community Newspaper Association

Canadian Community Newspaper Association

STAFF Office Manager: Caroline Sealey OFFICE HOURS: Monday and Tuesday 9am-12pm, Thursday 9am-3pm DEADLINE: MONDAY 10AM

YOUR HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER

EDITORIAL

N - Needs improvement It’s a rare and fairly gutsy move for a municipal council to conduct a satisfaction survey on its own performance. Given the average citizen’s fondness for parting with their cash for tax purposes, the results are likely to be akin to putting a “Kick Me” sign on your backside. It’s a well understood principal of polling that more contributions come from those with a complaint than a compliment. Also, any poll relying on the voluntary return of a written survey is probably going to suffer from sample size issues. Still, Mapleton councillors expressed surprisingly little shock over a poll, the first ever Mapleton Council Report Card, that indicated only 33 per cent of respondents consider council to be operating in “transparent” fashion. “Transparency” after all, has become one of those buzzwords that gets uttered at least once or twice at most municipal council meetings, and councillors and administrators everywhere give at least lip service to the importance of openness. Using council’s own report card analogy, the percentage mark would be a D – “The student has not demonstrated the required knowledge and skills. Extensive remediation is required.” Councillors earned slightly higher, but hardly sterling, marks on accessibility. Only Mayor Neil Driscoll, at 67% pulled off a C, with the rest scoring under 40%. And yet, as a frequent and impartial observer, we would be comfortable suggesting these council members are all accessible and greatly concerned with ensuring the public’s point of view is considered during debate. Judging from the accompanying comments, much of the concern about transparency can be traced to council’s handling of personnel issues, and most specifically the recent dismissal of longtime CAO Patty Sinnamon. Clearly citizens would like to know why council made the decision and feel they have some right to the information given they are paying the presumably substantial severance costs, which have also been kept secret. In many ways, it’s a fair expectation. Did council make a good and fair decision, one worth the financial price? How are their constituents to know? The Ontario government has already ruled through its Sunshine Law that the province’s top paid civil servants forgo the right to privacy about their salary in return for a generous one. Some jurisdictions, notably Alberta, have made disclosure of severances packages part of that same trade off. It’s time Ontario followed suit. It’s the “transparent” thing to do. Patrick Raftis

Letter to the Editor No spending constraints Dear Editor: The Township of Mapleton continues to spend as if they have no budget constraints, nor any fiscal guidelines, such as keeping the 2016 budget within the 2015 budget plus CPI (Consumer Price Index, the inflation index). Many of us would be very happy to spend what we want, then just go and ask taxpayers to cover the increase! And the trend is not improving; in the most recent Community News it is reported elected official(s) are now looking for support to increase county taxes by adding rural

garbage pickup. I live in rural Mapleton, and I don’t want my county taxes to increase due to garbage pick - I am fine bringing my trash and recycling in (yes, I do recycle) to the local transfer station. This just speaks to the trend of increasing services, when our taxes are out of control. Lets get our own township house in financial order, before we start looking to increase taxation in the county. If our provincial and federal income tax rates increased every year, we’d have another election. Dale Martin Moorefield

Paper will be missed Dear Editor: It is, indeed, a sad day for all residents of Wellington County, and not just those of Guelph. Even if they are not among the diminishing number of readers of the Guelph Mercury, they must feel an acute sense of loss at the demise of this direct link to Confederation. The Mercury’s roots go back as far as 1853, and it became the daily we know in 1867. That

is a long, venerable history, and throughout those years the paper has been a responsible voice for the citizens of Guelph and Wellington County. Alas, that voice will now go silent. I’d like to comment on something I noticed while reading the news on the website and the ensuing discussion, and it pertains to something that places me among the dinosaurs who find a printed newspaper a rich source of information,

opinion, and esoterica. One of the comments on the website challenged the other contributors to state whether or not they were lamenting the paper’s demise while not subscribing to the daily paper and, just to drive home the point, added the barb that such hypocrisy largely explains the death of print news. Perhaps I am making too much of this snide comment offered at the end of some fond reminiscences of the Mercury

by readers, writers and delivery people, but the rudeness of the words, their place in an otherwise respectful collection of writings, and their sheer, unmitigated self-righteousness reminded me of why I truly lament the death of a newspaper: whatever else a newspaper may represent, it usually represents several layers of thoughtful responses to the written word, whether in articles, columns, or letters to the editor. Continued on page 6

TOWNSHIP OF MAPLETON Community Information Page

7275 Sideroad 16, P.O. Box 160, Drayton, ON N0G 1P0 Phone: 519-638-3313, Fax: 519-638-5113, Toll Free: 1-800-385-7248 www.mapleton.ca

Notice to Ratepayers

2016 BUDGET “GROWING FOR THE FUTURE” Council intends to pass the 2016 Budget at a Meeting of Council on Tuesday, February 9, 2016 at 7:00 p.m. Any person who wishes to speak to the 2016 Budget must notify the Clerk at the address above, no later than 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday February 2, 2016, to make representation as a delegation with respect to this proposed budget. Any written submissions received by the Clerk, no later than 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday February 2, 2016, will be included in the Council Agenda for the February 9, 2016 Meeting of Council. A copy of the budget will be made available by Tuesday, January 26, 2016 without charge at the Township Office. Alternatively, the by-law may be viewed on the Township website (www.mapleton.ca).

NOTICE OF A PUBLIC MEETING

FOR AN AMENDMENT TO THE MAPLETON ZONING BY-LAW AND NOTICE OF COMPLETE APPLICATION ZBA 2016-02 TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Corporation of the Township of Mapleton has received a complete application to consider a proposed amendment to the Comprehensive Zoning By-law 2010-80, pursuant to Section 34 of the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990, as amended. PUBLIC MEETING Mapleton Council will consider this application at their meeting scheduled for:

Tuesday, February 9, 2016 at 7:00 p.m. Mapleton Township Municipal Offices Council Chambers, 7275 Sideroad 16 Location of the Subject Land The property subject to the proposed amendment is legally described as Part Lots 12 & 13, Concession A (Peel), with a municipal address of 7345 Highway 6. The property is 40.98 ha (101.26 ac) in size. The Purpose and Effect of the Application The purpose and effect of the proposed amendment is to rezone the subject lands to restrict future residential development on the agricultural portion of property, and to recognize oversized accessory structures on the residential portion of property. This rezoning is a condition of severance application B39/15, that has been granted provisional consent by the Wellington County Land Division Committee. The consent will sever the existing dwelling (2.98 ha) from the agricultural parcel (38 ha). The property is currently zoned Agricultural. Oral or Written Submissions Any person or public body is entitled to attend the public meeting and make written or oral submissions in support of or in opposition to the proposed zoning by-law amendment. Written comments should be submitted to the Township Clerk at the address shown. Power of OMB to Dismiss Appeals If a person or public body does not make oral submissions at a public meeting or make written submissions to the Township of Mapleton before the by-law is passed, the person or public body is not entitled to appeal the decision of the Council of the Township of Mapleton to the Ontario Municipal Board. If a person or public body does not make oral submissions at a public meeting, or make written submissions to the Township of before the by-law is passed, the person or public body may not be added as a party to the hearing of an appeal before Mapleton the Ontario Municipal Board unless, in the opinion of the Board, there are reasonable grounds to do so. Request for Notice of Decision If you wish to be notified of the decision in respect of the proposed Township of Mapleton Zoning By-law Amendment, you must make a written request to the Clerk. Additional Information Additional information regarding this application is available for inspection at the Township of Mapleton Municipal Office.

IMPORTANT DATES Tuesday, February 9, 2016 Tuesday, February 16, 2016

7:00pm 6:00pm

Tuesday, February 23, 2016

1:00pm

Regular Meeting of Council Mapleton Youth Action Council, Drayton Library Council Meeting Cancelled

The Community News, Friday, February 5, 2016 PAGE FIVE

MAPLETON MUSINGS Column courtesy of Mapleton Historical Society

Municipal government A 1937 newspaper article quoting an essay on municipal government written by Harold E. Petch, a teacher at Drayton continuation school came to light the other day. This clipping prompted me to review the legislation enacted in 1849 that governed municipal affairs. In 1849 this township was part of the District of Wellington that contained what is now the counties of Wellington, Grey and part of Dufferin and the Region of Waterloo. In 1842 the Governor General of Upper Canada appointed A. D. Fordyce as the first warden. Nine councillors had been elected but history tells us that six were disqualified over “irregularities� in their election. Another election was held resulting in 11 councillors representing the district. By 1851 the Townships of Peel and Maryborough both had repre-

sentation on the district council. Some years later the district was divided into counties and in 1854 the County of Wellington was incorporated including Peel and Maryborough. The townships, along with the Village of Drayton, which was incorporated in 1875, each had their own municipal councils. The county council was made of the reeves and deputyreeves of each township and town in the county. The warden, head of county council, was elected by the councillors from among the sitting members of council as he or she is today. The qualifications for an elector cited in 1849 were: A male who is 21 years of age, a British citizen, an owner of real property valued at 100 pounds or possessing real and personal property together amounting to 200 pounds. (British currency was still in use). Nominations

for municipal councils were to be held annually on the last Monday of December and the clerk was to give 10 days’ notice of the election to be held on the first Monday of January. Each elector’s vote was orally given to the Returning Officer and entered in the poll book by him. There was usually only one polling place in each municipality which was to be open from 11am to 4pm on election day and if all those on the list of electors had not voted that day the poll was to reopen the following day at 10am, closing at 4pm. The Returning Officer counted the votes and declared the candidates elected and has a casting vote in the case of ties. (the tales of confrontations by opposing factions at these elections is a story for another time). Annually, at the first meeting of council, each member

of council took an oath of their office. As well municipal officials were appointed for the coming year. In 1937 Mr. Petch quoted the appointment of sixteen officials for the Village of Drayton: Clerk, Treasurer, Assessor, Tax Collector, Constable, Inspectors of Sanitation, Weeds, Bread and Poll Tax, Keeper of the weight scales, Fence Viewer, Medical Officer of Health, Secretary –Treasurer of the Cemetery Board, Auditors, Caretakers of the village hall, cemetery and public parks, members to the Library Board and Board of Health. (One person must have held several positions.) Mr. Petch noted that the previous year the village council had enacted a by-law whereby the reeve and each councillor would be paid a remuneration of $1.50 per meeting. Apparently until that time each had given their time

and service free. He expressed the hope that this remuneration might generate interest in municipal government. I don’t think Drayton was unique as a copy of the 1874 audited Financial Statement for the Township of Maryborough shows only incidental expense paid to councillors.

—‡•nj ÂƒÂ–ÇŁ Tuesday-Saturday: 7am - 8pm Í&#x; ƒǤÂ?ǤČ„ Í Â’ǤÂ?Ǥ 24 Wellington St. S, Drayton ON, ͚͜ ‡ŽŽ‹Â?‰–‘Â? – N0G 1P0 Good food for Great People! 519.638.2939 ”ƒ›–‘Â? ÇĄ ͘ Í™ ͘

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ALSO, FEBRUARY 13TH WILL BE DATE NIGHT!

‡’–‡Â?„‡” ÍšÍ˜ÇĄ ͚͙͘Í? ‹• ‘—” Í™ ›‡ƒ” ƒÂ?Â?‹˜‡”•ƒ”›ǨǨ ‡ ™‹ŽŽ „‡ …‡Ž‡„”ƒ–‹Â?‰ ‡’–Ǥ Swing on by for details. Í™Í?ÇŚÍ™ͥǤ ‹Â? ’”‹œ‡• ƒÂ?† ‡ƒ– •‘Â?‡ †‡Ž‹…‹‘—•ǥ ˆ”‡•Š ˆ‘‘†Ǩ ‡‡ ›‘— –Š‡”‡Ǩ Now hiring part time evening cook & accepting resumes for summer help. upperroomfamilyrestaurant.ca / upperroomfamilyrestaurant@gmail.com —’’‡””‘‘Â?ˆƒÂ?‹Ž›”‡•–ƒ—”ƒÂ?–Ǥ…ƒ Č€ —’’‡””‘‘Â?ˆƒÂ?‹Ž›”‡•–ƒ—”ƒÂ?–̝‰Â?ƒ‹ŽǤ…‘Â?

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Proper sleep a major factor in maintaining health Family Health Teams can help patients attain proper rest by MaryLou Morris, RN, How did you sleep last night? Do you feel well rested, refreshed, energized and ready to take on the day? Or are you feeling sluggish, “draggy,� lethargic and wondering how you’ll ever get through today? Is your thinking “sharp� and clear or do you find yourself unable to stay focused, your mind “foggy� and your thoughts scattered? Ensuring adequate rest and quality sleep is a foundational piece in the development and maintenance of a healthy lifestyle. Poor quality sleep can contribute to hormonal changes in your body that increase your appetite, leading to obesity which is a factor in the development of diabetes. It’s very hard to make healthy lifestyle choices when you’re stressed and sleep deprived. Sleep is often undervalued in our culture

and one of the first things to go for many people trying manage the demands of their daily lives. Here are a few behaviours and ideas to consider when trying to ensure adequate rest. Ask yourself how many hours do I need to feel really well rested, not how few can I get by on. Consider establishing a regular bedtime as much as possible, even on weekends or your days off. Including regular daily exercise may contribute to a more restful, sounder sleep, but try exercising no later than three hours before going to bed. Look at your bedroom. Is it a setting that promotes sleep or is it cluttered? Do you have lots of distractive devices like your laptop, TV or cellphone there? Look at how you structure your day? Accomplishing the busier, more physical tasks like

exercising, earlier in the day and leaving the quieter tasks for the evening may help to prepare your body and mind to relax Avoid rushing in the evening to finish “just one more thing.� Maybe that “to do� list is unreasonable and could be spread out over a week instead of a day. Do you really have to do it all by yourself? Is there anyone in your household that you can delegate some of the household tasks to (making lunches, emptying the dishwasher)? Try turning off the news, the TV, your computer and consider a quiet activity like reading or listening to soothing music to help with relaxation. Other ideas are taking a nice warm bath before bed, setting time aside to meditate or taking some deep relaxing breaths Try avoiding late meals, caffeinated beverages and al-

There have been many amendments and new clauses to the Municipal Act since 1849, but our township council and officials must still govern under that law and requirements as well as other laws enacted by our upper tier governments. submitted by Jean Campbell

Í&#x; ƒǤÂ?ǤČ„ Í Â’ǤÂ?Ǥ ͚͜ ‡ŽŽ‹Â?‰–‘Â? – ”ƒ›–‘Â? ÇĄ ͘ Í™ ͘

‘‘† ˆ‘‘† ˆ‘” ”‡ƒ– ‡‘’Ž‡Ǩ Í?Í™ͥǤÍžÍ›Í Ç¤ÍšÍĄÍ›ÍĄ

cohol (alcohol may help you to fall asleep but it disrupts the normal sleep cycle). If after you make the changes that best suit you, you find that you still feel draggy, lethargic and sluggish, consider seeing a health care provider to rule out conditions like diabetes or sleep apnea, among others. Check with your Family Health Team to see if they offer any programs that promote healthy sleep or teach relaxation techniques. For more information about any of the free services offered by your local Family Health Team ask your doctor or nurse practitioner during your next visit, visit the website www. afhto.ca or google ‘family health team locations’. Mary Lou Morris is diabetes nurse educator at Louise Marshall and Groves Memorial Community Hospitals.

LTD.

”‡ƒÂ?ˆƒ•–Ǥ —Â?…ŠǤ ‹Â?Â?‡”Ǥ ”‡•Šǥ ˆ”‘Â? •…”ƒ–…Š Â?‡ƒŽ•Ǥ ‘Â?‡ Â?ƒ†‡ „ƒÂ?‹Â?‰Ǥ ‡’–‡Â?„‡” ÍšÍ˜ÇĄ ͚͙͘Í? ‹• ‘—” Í™ ›‡ƒ” ƒÂ?Â?‹˜‡”•ƒ”›ǨǨ ‡ ™‹ŽŽ „‡ …‡Ž‡„”ƒ–‹Â?‰ ‡’–Ǥ 8505 Wellington Road 8 Í™Í?ÇŚÍ™ͥǤ ‹Â? ’”‹œ‡• ƒÂ?† ‡ƒ– •‘Â?‡ †‡Ž‹…‹‘—•ǥ ˆ”‡•Š ˆ‘‘†Ǩ ‡‡ ›‘— –Š‡”‡Ǩ

Midway between Drayton and Palmerston —’’‡””‘‘Â?ˆƒÂ?‹Ž›”‡•–ƒ—”ƒÂ?–Ǥ…ƒ Č€ —’’‡””‘‘Â?ˆƒÂ?‹Ž›”‡•–ƒ—”ƒÂ?–̝‰Â?ƒ‹ŽǤ…‘Â?

SAND/SALT BLEND

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DRIVEWAY SANDING SERVICE

‘‘† ˆ‘‘† ˆ‘” ”‡ƒ– ‡‘’Ž‡Ǩ

͚͜ ‡ŽŽ‹Â?‰–‘Â? – ”ƒ›–‘Â? ÇĄ ͘ Í™ ͘ Í?Í™ͥǤÍžÍ›Í Ç¤ÍšÍĄÍ›ÍĄ

CALL FOR DETAILS

”‡ƒÂ?ˆƒ•–Ǥ —Â?…ŠǤ ‹Â?Â?‡”Ǥ ”‡•Šǥ ˆ”‘Â? •…”ƒ–…Š Â?‡ƒŽ•Ǥ ‘Â?‡ Â?ƒ†‡ „ƒÂ?‹Â?‰Ǥ

Tel. 519.638.2116 Cell 519.837.7232 Fax 519.638.2462

‡’–‡Â?„‡” ÍšÍ˜ÇĄ ͚͙͘Í? ‹• ‘—” Í™ ›‡ƒ” ƒÂ?Â?‹˜‡”•ƒ”›ǨǨ ‡ ™‹ŽŽ „‡ …‡Ž‡„”ƒ–‹Â?‰ ‡’–Ǥ Í™Í?ÇŚÍ™ͥǤ ‹Â? ’”‹œ‡• ƒÂ?† ‡ƒ– •‘Â?‡ †‡Ž‹…‹‘—•ǥ ˆ”‡•Š ˆ‘‘†Ǩ ‡‡ ›‘— –Š‡”‡Ǩ —’’‡””‘‘Â?ˆƒÂ?‹Ž›”‡•–ƒ—”ƒÂ?–Ǥ…ƒ Č€ —’’‡””‘‘Â?ˆƒÂ?‹Ž›”‡•–ƒ—”ƒÂ?–̝‰Â?ƒ‹ŽǤ…‘Â?

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DECORATING TO RENOVATING

͚͜ ‡ŽŽ‹Â?‰–‘Â? – ”ƒ›–‘Â? ÇĄ ͘ Í™ ͘

‘‘† ˆ‘‘† ˆ‘” ”‡ƒ– ‡‘’Ž‡Ǩ Í?Í™ͥǤÍžÍ›Í Ç¤ÍšÍĄÍ›ÍĄ

”‡ƒÂ?ˆƒ•–Ǥ —Â?…ŠǤ ‹Â?Â?‡”Ǥ ”‡•Šǥ ˆ”‘Â? •…”ƒ–…Š Â?‡ƒŽ•Ǥ ‘Â?‡ Â?ƒ†‡ „ƒÂ?‹Â?‰Ǥ ‡’–‡Â?„‡” ÍšÍ˜ÇĄ ͚͙͘Í? ‹• ‘—” Í™ ›‡ƒ” ƒÂ?Â?‹˜‡”•ƒ”›ǨǨ ‡ ™‹ŽŽ „‡ …‡Ž‡„”ƒ–‹Â?‰ ‡’–Ǥ Í™Í?ÇŚÍ™ͥǤ ‹Â? ’”‹œ‡• ƒÂ?† ‡ƒ– •‘Â?‡ †‡Ž‹…‹‘—•ǥ ˆ”‡•Š ˆ‘‘†Ǩ ‡‡ ›‘— –Š‡”‡Ǩ

Home Owners helping homeowners RENTALS

—’’‡””‘‘Â?ˆƒÂ?‹Ž›”‡•–ƒ—”ƒÂ?–Ǥ…ƒ Č€ —’’‡””‘‘Â?ˆƒÂ?‹Ž›”‡•–ƒ—”ƒÂ?–̝‰Â?ƒ‹ŽǤ…‘Â?

R, SKID STEER, WOOD SPLITTE , OR, AIR TOOLS MINI EXCAVAT R, O AT ER EN RS, G SMALL TRACTO FT -LI AN M LS, ELECTRIC TOO

One for the team Pie time – ABOVE: Intern Sathiya Sam was pied in the face by interns Charlie Wills, left and Rachel Broadway during Sunday morning service at Selah Fire in Drayton. Sam is unable to attend a fundraising spaghetti supper on Feb. 5 for the mission team travelling to Belize, so he took one for the team early. The fundraising event begins at 5:30pm with a spaghetti supper followed by a dessert auction and pie in the face progam. Looking on is is Pastor Jeff McCracken. Right: Sam gets a hand cleaning up from McCracken and Mike Bayton, right. photo by Caroline Sealey

SERVICES

—‡•nj ÂƒÂ–ÇŁ KEY CUTTIN G, RUG DO CTOR, KNIFE SHA RPENING, Í&#x; ƒǤÂ?ǤČ„ Í Â’ǤÂ?Ǥ SCREEN R EPAIR, MIL L SH ARTIC CLE OP, ͚͜ ‡ŽŽ‹Â?‰–‘Â? – AR WATER , PRO ”ƒ›–‘Â? ÇĄ ͘ Í™ ͘ PA NE, PAINT MATC HING Í?Í™ͥǤÍžÍ›Í Ç¤ÍšÍĄÍ›ÍĄ

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PAGE SIX The Community News, Friday, February 5, 2016

By Pastor Mark McCready Alma Bible Church

Jesus weeps Lets talk about sin again. I know many people don’t like to talk about it, and I have some theories as to why. First off, when we go to church we hear the preacher tell all the people to “stop doing this,” or “stop doing that.” They come across as very angry. In the end we look up at the pastor and we call him a hypocrite. We wish we could tell the pastor to mind his own business: “stop telling us how to live when your life is a mess; stop using the Bible as a weapon.” We want to ask the pastor “Who are you to tell me to stop sinning? Look

at all the bad things you do!” Regrettably, while no one is perfect, most pastors have the best of intentions. Another reason we don’t like to talk about sin is because we believe that what we do with our lives is our choice. When we listen to the preacher, it sometimes seems like he is just picking on certain people. Some pastors seems to have their “favorite” sins. They have things that they harp on all the time. One preacher may talk a lot about gluttony. The reason we are bothered is that the preacher is hitting on something that we enjoy. We think we have found some harmless thing in life. The real problem though is that we have taken our choice sin and turned it into a right. “I am not a glutton,” we

say, “I am just free from the unhealthy stereotypes about people who are overweight, and besides God made me this way.” At least this is what we say to ourselves. I think the criticism of preachers on this matter of sin is radically unfair. I am not trying to justify the hypocrisy of many. Nor am I am trying to justify the prejudice and hate of some. But preaching against sin has a purpose. When I meet with people who are suffering I often want to learn what events lead up to their suffering. What I discover is that somewhere down the line someone - not necessarily the person in front of me - has committed a sin that has resulted in this person’s pain. I look out into the world and

see lots of suffering. A couple is married. Someone has an affair. Then the other finds out, resulting in a great deal of pain, feelings of betrayal, being taken advantage of, loneliness. A child is physically and emotionally abused by his parents. Obviously the child is suffering under the abuse. The child is a victim of the parents sin. A man steals from his neighbor. The neighbor now feels angry, hurt, violated, insecure. Just about every sin that I can think of results in someone getting hurt. Deep down, at the core, all suffering is a result of sin. It is no wonder, then, that when the Bible talks about Jesus coming down from the region of Bethany Bethpage which overlooks the city of

Jerusalem that on seeing it he weeps. When he sees the city he is overcome with emotion. I would argue that he wept because he was able to look down on the city and see all the suffering. He was able to see the pain of the people. He saw the sickness; he saw the hurt; he saw the poverty. The reality is that he saw the root of it all. He saw the sin. The tragedy is that He came to help, but people don’t want the help He offers. Jesus came as a solution to the problems that people were facing. He came as a solution to the problem of sin. Jesus was telling them that if they turned to Him, turned away from sin, that there was hope. Now here is the critical part. We so often think of God as being a judging, condemn-

ing God. He hates sin. So, if I am a sinner, well he must hate me. If I step foot into a church, lightening is sure to strike. But the truth is that Jesus looks out on us all hoping and longing that we will turn to him and turn away from our sin. Preaching against sin is not hatred towards us. Preaching against sin, is telling us how much God loves us. God is trying desperately to inform us how we can find greater joy in life. Preaching against sin is an attempt to spare us pain and suffering. Perhaps it is time for us to reflect a little more on the idea that talking about sin is a loving act. Preaching against sin is a way of showing us that there is something better for each of us.

GRCA offering workshop on tree management CAMBRIDGE - The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) Managing Trees on your Property workshop will answer questions landowners have about trees and help them to develop skills and strategies to maintain and improve their trees.

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of Natural Resources, Ontario Invasive Plant Council and Pollination Guelph will speak about topics ranging from broad forest health issues to impacts on individual trees. Local tree professionals and other agencies will also exhibit products and services. “Whether you have a large woodlot or only a few trees, you can learn as much as possible about how to help your trees and address threats like the emerald ash borer,” stated Karen Buschert, conservation outreach specialist with the

GRCA. “This workshop will allow participants to network with staff and like-minded landowners to solve their tree problems.” Topics include planting, pruning, common tree diseases, invasive species, hazard trees, forest health, pollinators, management plans and grant opportunities for rural landowners. Participation is free and lunch is included. To pre-register contact Buschert at ruralwater@grandriver.ca or 519-6212763, ext. 2305.

Nater urges citizens to report fraud and scams to authorities STRATFORD - PerthWellington MP John Nater, is encouraging his constituents to report instances of fraud. “In light of the recent reports of people in Perth Wellington being targeted through a variety of scams, I encourage all constituents to be very cautious,” stated Nater in a Feb. 1 press release. “These perpetrators are criminals who are trying to extort money from honest, hard-working Canadians. They may be impersonating a representative from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), offer-

ing a business opportunity or pretending to be a loved one. “If you are contacted by someone you don’t know asking for money, please help the police and the Canadian AntiFraud Centre by reporting it, by phone at 1-888-495-8501, or online at www.antifraudcentre.ca.” Constituents can obtain a free copy of The Little Black Book of Scams published by the Government of Canada at Nater’s Wellington constituency offices located at 39 Elora Street South, Unit 1, Harriston, ON, N0G 1Z0.

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‘Cocoa and Cram’ sessions help students with exams PALMERSTON - Norwell District Secondary School students were busy writing exams from Jan. 28 to Feb. 3 The school offered students extra help every lunch and a “Cocoa and Cram” session after school for Grade 9

Paper’s death will affect all FROM PAGE FOUR Now, we can look forward to the immediate replies, with no danger of sober second thoughts, piling on each other after virtually every article or column. There are many good things about the Internet (I use it a lot), but the self-publishing yahoo is not one of them. I see unfortunate trends emerging from the massive challenges the information revolution offers traditional media; books and magazines

are facing what the music industry is trying to weather presently. And this is all uncharted territory. The most direct impact falls on the heads of those employees who must find other work, and for whom I feel the greatest sympathy. However, we will all be affected by the death of the Mercury, and we should all examine how best to respond. Richard Giles, RR1, Alma

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Google Expedition takes students around the globe Virtual expedition - Drayton Heights Public School was selected to pilot a Google Expedition project. The project allowed students to use virtual reality viewers to go on expeditions around the world without leaving their classroom. “Some places that we ‘visited’ were Egypt, the Borneo rainforest, coral reefs, and even the moon,” said teacher Erika Walls. FAR LEFT: Naomi Taylor and Brooke Mettler look through the devices. LEFT: Riley Fisher clearly seemed to enjoy the program. submitted photos

Council defers decision on proposal for canine control services by Patrick Raftis MAPLETON - Council has deferred a decision on selecting a new contractor to handle canine control in the township after several councillors expressed concerns over costs and service levels. In a report at the Jan. 26 meeting, CAO Brad McRoberts explained the township’s current service provider, Jo-Alan Animal Care, has notified the municipality it is getting out of the business. McRoberts recommended the township waive the normal procurement policy and support a proposal for animal control services from the Guelph Humane Society (GHS) as part of a joint agreement with the municipalities of Wellington North, Guelph-Eramosa, and Centre Wellington. Under the proposed agreement, Mapleton’s fixed cost would be allocated for the first year on a representative population basis, at approximately $30,300. The current provider was paid approximately $6,000 in 2015 for a standby fee, and $6,123 for other services. Revenues in 2015 were

$16,350 in dog tag fees and kennel licenses and $1,095 in fines. McRoberts explained Wellington North recently issued a request for proposal with only one bid being submitted in the amount of $48,000 per annum. A joint quote was submitted by the Guelph Humane Society (GHS) to the municipalities of Centre Wellington, Mapleton, Guelph-Eramosa and Wellington North. The base fixed cost for Mapleton for 2016 would be approximately $30,300. The cost would increase in 2017 to approximately $36,000 when an on-line tag registration system is instituted by GHS. “With the implementation of the on-line tag registration system it is anticipated the number of tags sold would increase. Under the GHS proposal all revenues would continue to be directed to the township,” the report states. McRoberts suggested council had three options: - enter into the joint agreement with GHS; - issue an RFP for the provision of canine control services

in Mapleton; or - cease issuing dog licenses and not provide canine control services in Mapleton. “Elimination of the service may not be viable in that there is an expectation that the municipality would address stray or dangerous animals,” the report explains. “Without a municipal service there would be no alternative to canine control and likely the township would still be responding to residents’ concerns without being able to take any appropriate action. We would also continue to have kennel licensing responsibilities.” The report also notes the “significant increase in cost” has been reflected in the current 2016 budget draft and “consideration should be given to increasing dog tag fees to be full cost recovery by 2017.” McRoberts estimates a license fee of approximately $35 per animal would be required for full cost recovery. Currently the township charges $20 for the first dog in a household, $30 for the second and $45 for the third. McRoberts told council

improved service levels would be one benefit of the humane society program. “It’s a bit more of a proactive approach to animal control,” he said. However, he pointed out the pricing would increase unless all four municipalities participate. “I take it we’ve pretty well exhausted any other sources to do this for us?” asked councillor Dennis Craven. McRoberts explained the recommendation to use the humane society service was based on the fact Wellington North had only one bid on their RFP. He added, “Whether we’d be successful or not going out for a bid I can’t say one way or another.” Councillor Marlene Ottens asked how other area municipalities such as Minto and North Perth are providing the service. She also wondered if the service could be provided locally. “What qualifications does a person need for this job? Is this something a local person could do?” she wondered. “The cost seems ridiculous. One person getting $144,000 (total from the four municipali-

Historical society hosts plowing display HARRISTON – The Harriston Historical Society is hosting an evening with international plowing competitor Carman Weppler. He made history last year when he became the first Minto resident to qualify for and compete in the world championships in conventional plowing. Weppler qualified for the global event by placing first in the Senior Conventional Plow class at the CanPlow2014 competition.

In Denmark, he competed in the conventional category, placing sixth plowing on stubble. Weppler also finished 21st in grassland plowing to end up 17th overall. The sixth place finish is the best for Canada since the late 1980s. With Minto the location of the 2016 International Plowing Match and Rural Expo, interest in the competitive aspect of plowing is at a high locally. For the month of February, the historical society will be hosting a

display titled Plowing Matches – A Yearly Tradition on the top floor of the Harriston library branch. An open house and special reception is planned for Feb. 10 at 7:30pm at the library. Weppler will explain the art of plowing, the plowing competition system and his experience qualifying for and attending the world championships in Denmark last fall. The event is free and light refreshments will be provided.

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Organic conference - The 35th Organic Agriculture Conference and Trade Show at the University of Guelph surpassed last year’s guest attendance, reaching approximately 2,000 people over the course of the four-day exhibition ending on Jan. 31. ABOVE: From left: Sidney RoydsClifford, Hayden DeGroot and Gunnar Jost were working at the Mapleton’s Organic booth selling ice cream to customers. RIGHT: Norm Eygenraam from Multi Shelter Solutions in Palmerston was also at the trade show on Jan. 30. photos by Jaime Myslik

ties) to do this job? I could do this job for that.” McRoberts pointed out the bid “includes trucks and equipment, not just labour, but all the overhead and all that’s included with that.” Ottens also expressed concern about an urban humane society handling canine control in a rural area. “Dogs run around loose on farms. If it happens to be near the road someone could complain and it could end up in the city and me having to justify what we do,” she pointed out. McRobert suggested such concerns might be handled in “a letter of understanding” with the society. Councillor Michael Martin questioned whether the township even needs to provide animal control services. He also stated, “anyone who’s had an experience with the humane society knows the level of service isn’t necessarily very high.” “This dog license thing actually goes back quite a piece,” offered Craven. He explained that in the past some dogs would “kill and maim and wound farm animals.

“If we didn’t provide this service, then if someone’s dog goes on someone else’s property it would give the farmer almost the right to shoot the dog as opposed to calling to have it picked up,” he added. While pointing out the municipality pays a livestock evaluator and also pays claims out to farmers who have animals killed, Mayor Neil Driscoll agreed, “In the country I think they kind of deal with the dogs on their own.” Martin stated, “It’s 2016, so the day of shooting a stray dog that comes on your property is long gone ... if that’s still happening we’ve got bigger problems.” Without canine control services, Craven asked Martin, “If you get a dog around your place in town, what are you going to do with it? Are you going to chase it away? Are you going to keep your kids inside?” Council deferred a resolution on the recommendation pending receipt of further information, including the number of calls handled by previous service providers and options used by other municipalities.

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