Haldimand "Haldimand/Norfolk are We Going Nuclear?"

Recently I had the opportunity to speak in depth with Richard Goodlet from Norfolk County. Richard's concerns are real and we should be demanding answers on the truth of what is really going on regarding "Nuclear" power in Haldimand/Norfolk Counties.

Richard's involvement started back in November of 2007 as you will read in his letter, "Break it to me Gently" that I have posted below.

I mentioned to Richard that Haldimand County Council seems to be still seeking a Nuclear Plant here in Nanticoke and I really don't understand why. Well it seems that just maybe we once again are not being fully informed.

This process seems to be still going ahead, and yet we the "public" have not been informed here in Haldimand County. There has not been one public meeting regarding this issue. Norfolk County has had two I believe, and apparently Haldimand County Council is fully behind this venture.

I mentioned to Richard that we could hold a series of "Public Meetings" ourselves and have some speakers, Richard was in full agreement. At least the "Public" could be informed of what we know or more importantly what we don't know.

Haldimand County Council has already spoken on "OUR" behalf in favour of a Nuclear Plant in Nanticoke.

I would like to have a say, wouldn't You?

The following is information about "Grand Erie Energy Quest", I also put a link in "Interesting Sites" to go there directly. I encourage you to visit this site often, it is full of very valuable information!

Grand Erie Energy Quest

To ensure citizens have a democratic say in our energy future. To raise awareness on energy options for Haldimand/Norfolk/Brant/Hamilton.

Grand Erie Energy Quest was founded because the county council's of Norfolk and Haldimand endorsed an Environmental Assessment on a nuclear reactor at Nanticoke without meaningful public debate on the risks and benefits of a nuclear station at Nanticoke. It will be the residents of Grand Erie that take on the risks of a nuclear station at Nanticoke. Grand Erie Energy Quest does not feel that the safety, financial and environmental risks as well as the long term management of nuclear waste have been debated, clarified and/or agreed to by our communities.

The following is a letter from Richard;

BREAK IT TO ME GENTLY

In February 2007, was when we first heard there was an interest expressed by Bruce Power to build a nuclear reactor here in Nanticoke. Within the mind of this life-long resident there seemed to be an immediate pale of grey that had just descended over my community.

On March 22, 2007 the Simcoe and District Chamber of Commerce sponsored a breakfast at the Greens in Renton with guest CEO of Bruce Power, Duncan Hawthorn who was invited there to promote his industry. Soon after in May, 2007 both Haldimand and Norfolk councils requested that Bruce Power commence a Federal Environmental Assessment at the cost of $20,000,000.00.

Anyone who understands business knows that this type of investment is something no private investor will turn it’s back on and walk away from.

The myriad of complex issues surrounding nuclear power have to be totally understood by the people who live within it’s air-shed. These same residents also must have their say on this quest for energy at Nanticoke.

We know there are clean-air-technologies that are alternatives to nuclear power. We must demand that the very few who sit on both of the councils of Haldimand and Norfolk look at these alternatives thoroughly, listen to their constituents, and create an honest and open forum on this issue.

Richard Goodlet
Port Ryerse

The following is a note from Richard regarding a council meeting that I was unable to attend;

Hi Donna,

I was read some of the Canadian Federation of University Women presentation over the phone and it was what council should hear. However, it was accepted only as information and council advised the CFUW to make a presentation to Haldimand council.

Below is a CD98.9 blog address on the issue...
http://www.cd989.com/modules/news/article.php?storyid=12101

Today, CTV was inquiring whether-or-not there will be a public meeting here regarding the nuclear issue in the future. As yet I have not responded. Have you any further thoughts toward this idea?

Take care,
Richard

FYI:

Subject: News release

April 15, Norfolk county council has agreed to hear from the Canadian Federation of University Women [CFUW] - Norfolk about revisiting the decision they made to encourage the nuclearization of the electrical generating plant at Nanticoke without asking the taxpaying voters of Norfolk whether they wanted to be willing hosts to such a facility. Such issues as the safety of storing the spent nuclear fuel waste, using alternate fuel sources and cost/risk/benefit analysis need to have input from the residents of both Haldimand and Norfolk.Contact:Stephana Johnstonstephanajohnston@hotmail.com

More correspondence from Richard;

Hi Donna,

Below are two articles published about a presentation to Norfolk council made by the Canadian Federation of University Women regarding nuclear power. The CFUW now have their sights on Haldimand council or a public meeting in Haldimand sometime in the near future. I gave them your name (not number), they may be getting in touch.

Richard
--------------------------------------
Group opposes County’s decision on nuclear - council defensive

Port Dover Maple Leaf: Lyn Tremblay - April 23, 2008

Representatives of the Nor­folk chapter of the Canadian Federation of University Women attended last week’s Council-in-Committee meeting to protest a nuclear plant at the Nanticoke Generating Station. Specifically, the group is not in favour of a resolution passed by Norfolk County Council last June to support an Environmental Assessment of the proposed Nanticoke Nuclear Power Facility.

In a lengthy presentation, members Anne Faulkner of Delhi and Stephana Johnston outlined a number of facts arguing against nuclear power and the effects they believe it will have on Norfolk County. The decision to put a nuclear plant in Haldimand will affect the sales of our agricultural products, our homes, our new industries, tourism, etc., stated Anne Faulkner.

The group compiled a number of ‘whereas’ statements leading up to a proposed resolution they feel the county should adopt. Among them they asked Norfolk County to research alternatives to nuclear power and accused promises of transparency and openness in municipal government are being ignored in that taxpaying, voters have not been consulted to provide input to the decision process.

Councillors were obviously on the defensive in their responding comments.

Councillor Heidy Van Dyk noted there have been three public meetings (one especially for women) where people had opportunities to raise their concerns and the speakers in attendance had offered to speak to community groups.

Councillor Jim Oliver stated, I do take exception to the fact that you think we are not considering other sources of energy. We have embraced the concept of solar farms and wind farms. I feel Norfolk County is becoming a centre of excellence.

Mayor Dennis Travale explained it would not be logical to try to replace the Nanticoke Generating Station with other forms of power. If we were to replace it with wind turbines we would have to have 2,000 to 3,000 from Elgin to Haldimand and out on the lake. I can’t see a number of solar farms because we are an agricultural community. If someone wanted to bring geo-thermal, well jiminy-crickets, we’d listen. There is nothing wrong with look­ing at it but no one has. Bruce Nuclear came to speak with us. They will be asking Haldimand if they will be a willing host. They will be going through the Federal government’s EA process.

The group requested that council pass the following resolution, that Norfolk Council commission an unbiased survey of Norfolk taxpaying voters to ask whether they would willingly host a nuclear plant after they have been thoroughly educated about the scientific dilemma about transportation of nuclear fuel, the huge pools needed to store the hot radioactive waste, the circulation of cold water in and hot water out to Lake Erie, the effect this will have on the fishery, the risk of accidents, insurance issues, property values, the research showing higher rates of cancer around nuclear facilities and many other impacts.

Councillor John Wells ques­tioned, if we never start a study how are we ever going to find out if people are in favour or not? We need to know the pitfalls and until we do we are only looking at hypothetical situations. He later added, is this a NIMBY (not-in-my-back-yard) syndrome?

Councillor Charlie Luke responded, how are we going to know if the public is thoroughly educated? After we are being asked to have an unbiased survey, you list many negatives. I think it is better to educate by offering pros and cons. We have to present both sides to get an hon­est unbiased opinion.

Mayor Travale bristled, I find the resolution very negative. Nanticoke is closing. Six hundred jobs will be gone. Solar and wind are not going to replace Nanticoke!

Councillor Roger Geysens pointed out, the ultimate decision is with Haldimand County Council. I will say with 99% certainty, there will be a lot of public input.
--------------------------------
Concerned residents want more input on nuclear

PUBLIC ALREADY CONSULTED: COUNCIL

SIMCOE REFORMER: Kate Schwass - April 21, 2008

Norfolk needs to do an unbiased survey of residents to see whether or not people here are in favour of a nuclear plant, concerned residents say.

A survey should be conducted at arms length from Bruce Power, said Stephana Johnston of Port Rowan, a member of the Canadian Federation of University Women Norfolk. She said the survey is necessary to see if residents "are prepared to be willing hosts to a nuclear plant in Nanticoke."
Johnston and fellow CFUW mem­ber Anne Faulkner went before council last Tuesday night to ask for the survey, saying Norfolk has been moving too quickly when it comes to the possibility of a nuclear plant in Nanticoke. They said the county has funded a study about the benefits of a nuclear plant. and has also given approval to start an environmental assessment of the Nanticoke property, to see if it is an ideal location for a nuclear plant.

"The citizens of Norfolk need to collectively provide input so they are part of the solution, not passive recipients of a future flawed nuclear solution," Faulkner said.

Up until this point, the two women said, people have not had a chance to give their input.
Coun. Heidy VanDyk said she was aware of three separate open houses and she personally attended one of them.

"At the public consultation I was at, there were a lot of people there and some of them raised concerns and asked questions," VanDyk said. It concerns me that there are folks who think their voices have not been heard.

Both women asked Norfolk to do a survey that not only asked about nuclear power, but also about other energy sources.

Coun. Jim Oliver said he felt Norfolk was being progressive when it came to other sources of energy.

I think Norfolk County, in its own way, is becoming an energy centre of excellence, Oliver said. I happen to think this council is very much in favour of looking into alternative energy.

Mayor Dennis Travale agreed, pointing out there is Wind and solar energy already being produced in Norfolk.

"We have another possible solar project coming into Norfolk, he said.

The two women said asking for an environmental assessment (EA) for a nuclear plant on the Nanticoke site was the wrong way to go about the process, and instead a study should be done looking at all energy options.

Travale said if another energy producer wanted to consider the property, then he thinks the council would likely give approval to an EA for that alternative energy as well.

Well there you have it! Now what do you think? If we have a public meeting without the endorsement of Haldimand County Council would you attend? I think it is time that the residents of Haldimand and Norfolk 'Unite".

Haldimand "Minister Bryant's Visit and Updates from Toby"

Well I attended the Council meeting today where Minister Bryant openly spoke with Haldimand County Council Members. I won't go into any details as you can watch the raw footage by visiting www.numberswatchdog.com it is under; Michael Bryant visited Haldimand County Council...see what happened (click on the video button) Numerous other media articles (click on Documentation) Thanks Numberswatchdog!

I strongly suggest that you view this video.

Here are some updates from Monday and today in the Legislature;

Toby here, April 21, 2008

Good afternoon, please find attached a news release and Hansard from two questions I asked of Michael Bryant today. They concern the fact that HDI is now expanding into Ancaster using the justification of the Nanfan Treat of 1701.

Have a good evening.

Development fees

Mr. Toby Barrett: To the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs. Today I want to talk about expansion.
This expansion is not good news. It’s about the expansion of the HDI and over the past few days, native protestors have turned their sights on the Ancaster Fairgrounds. The Ancaster Agricultural Society which received a letter from Six Nations asking for a donation plus the $500 fee.

The city of Hamilton, according to the Spectator, has said the issue is not a municipal one. I quote the director of planning. "It’s ... between the Agricultural Society and HDI."
Minister, your government told homebuilders during work along the Haldimand track that they’re own—and that was just two days before Sam Gualtieri was almost beaten to death.
Minister, will you now intervene or are Fairboards in Ontario now on their own?

The Speaker (Hon. Steve Peters): Minister of Aboriginal Affairs.

Hon. Michael Bryant: I think, as the member knows, the discussions between Haudenosaunee Six Nations, the province, the federal government and local municipality do cover broad range of issues—and are still underway.

The desire is to create a provincial side table that would allow for a whole host of issues to be addressed. I think it would be in error to imagine that every single individual would be speaking on behalf of Haudenosaunee Six Nations on issues such as that. I will continue to work with the chief McNaughton and members of the council, as well as municipalities and the federal government to try and come up with solutions.

The Speaker (Hon. Steve Peters): Supplementary.

Mr. Toby Barrett: Minister, your government is talking with HDI and I’m sure you feel you are making progress as they continue to shut down local economies, site by site. Again, according to the Hamilton Spectator, HDI says, with respect to the Ancaster fair grounds, they are exerting their authority under the Nanfan Treaty of 1701 regarding hunting and fishing rights in southern Ontario, northern New York State, Pennsylvania, Ohio and Michigan.

As you know, HDI feels their mandate now ranges beyond the former Haldimand track to encompass and I quote HDI’s the interim director in the Spectator: "The whole of North American continent." Now I know that’s a little out of your league minister, but in your deliberations with HDI, do you feel are you progressing towards a meeting of like minds? Do you know about this treaty? Do you agree with HDI using the Nanfan Treaty to now justify protesting outside the Haldimand tract?

The Speaker (Hon. Steve Peters): Thank you. Minister?

Hon. Michael Bryant: The member knows that main discussions take place with respect to land claims that have been filed with the federal government, where there is an appropriate provincial role and we play that role. That covers land claims certainly that do not extend as far as the member has suggested, with respect to some individuals, who have suggested that in fact the land claims are larger. The history is laid out in the Haldimand Proclamation of 1784, which I believe the member makes reference to. It was particularly unfortunate, I say, that in debating this issue, the member saw fit to mock the Haldimand Proclamation of 1784, which was seen—I should tell you—by the community as a major insult and affront to that community.

Our approach, in fact, is to negotiate with the parties on matters in which we believe we can come to a resolution and we’ll continue to do so.

Toby here, April 22, 2008

I hope everyone is enjoying the nice sunny weather. Here at Queen's Park land disputes continue to dominate Question Period. I have attached Hansard from this afternoon from my colleagues Bob Runciman and Randy Hillier. I hope you find this of interest.

Have a great evening. Toby

ORAL QUESTIONS

Native land disputes

Mr. Robert W. Runciman: I have a question to the Premier regarding the expansion of native protests across Ontario. Over the last number of weeks, Six Nations protestors have been blocking access to a number of construction sites in Brantford. Yesterday, the member from Haldimand-Norfolk raised the fact that Six Nations protesters are now blocking a development on the Ancaster fairgrounds. Yesterday, we learned that native protestors had set up a blockade on county road 2 in Deseronto, and have been occupying a nearby privately-owned quarry for some time.

Premier, whatever your government has been doing in Caledonia for the last two-plus years clearly isn’t working. The native protests are expanding. What do you plan to do about this escalating situation?

Hon. Dalton McGuinty: To the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs.

Hon. Rick Bartolucci: Just as an update to the subject that the member raised, the blockade erected by Mohawk protestors in eastern Ontario has come down, and came down at about 10:00 a.m. today.

I note as well that the chief of the band council of the Tyendinaga Mohawk Council said yesterday that that council, and he as chief did not—I repeat, did not—sanction a blockade of the busy southern Ontario highway.

I think it’s important to note that, in fact, the blockade is down and that the chief and council exercised some leadership to indicate that this was not something sanctioned by their First Nation. Now those streets are free, and we’re pleased that it ended in a peaceful fashion.

Mr. Robert W. Runciman: We’re pleased that it’s ended, perhaps, temporarily in a peaceful situation. But the reality is that we’re not aware of any charges being laid. By failing to enforce the rule of law in Caledonia and Brantford, and refusing to shut down HDIs who are making what everyone would classify as extortion demands and what may fall under that classification in the Criminal Code of Canada, you are in fact giving tacit consent to further protests and blockades.

Developers are being told by the government not to pay the fees, but then you do nothing to stop the situation in Brantford and others areas. Minister, what are you going to tell the people of Brantford, Ancaster and Deseronto who are worried about their safety, their homes and their businesses? That they should "steel themselves," because as your Premier said to another issue, "This too shall pass?"

L031-1420-22 follows

(Mr. Robert W. Runciman)

... their safety, their homes, their businesses—that they should steel themselves because, as your Premier said to another issue, this too shall pass?
1420

Hon. Michael Bryant: I was speaking to Haldimand county council today and—in attendance were a number of citizens; obviously, the full council and the mayor were there—issues around what we are doing next were discussed. The answer is, negotiations are being encouraged that would see those who are on the street and at the work sites come off the street and off the work sites—and allow for discussions by way of negotiation.

It is, based on the recommendations of the Ipperwash commission, the recommended course of action not to escalate the tension, but rather to de-escalate the tension, and most importantly, to come to a lasting solution. That lasting solution will only happen if the parties sit down and negotiate, and that’s exactly the goal that we’re pursuing.

Mr. Randy Hillier: Premier, your government is creating a culture of violence and confusion. In Napanee and Deseronto, we expect nothing less than one law for every man and injustice for no man. You choose not to protect our communities from armed thugs, nor do you defend legal title to our properties. When will you stand up and protect property, stop the violence and end your policy of different laws for different people?

Hon. Michael Bryant: This comes from a member who—

Hon. Leona Dombrowsky: Shot deer out of season.

Hon. Michael Bryant: Well, shot deer out of season and blocked Highway 401.
If I’d closed my eyes, I could have heard the words of Mike Harris, when he said—

Mr. Randy Hillier: On a point of order, Mr. Speaker: Those comments are patently untrue. Unless that minister has evidence, I would ask him to withdraw those comments.

The Speaker (Hon. Steve Peters): It’s not a point of order, but I do remind the members to be conscious of their language. We’ve got a full gallery here again today. Anything that’s going to invoke stress within this chamber isn’t useful to any of us. Minister of Aboriginal Affairs.

Mr. Peter Kormos: On a point of order, Speaker: ??Standing order 23(a).

The Speaker (Hon. Steve Peters): I thank the member for the reminder. Minister of Aboriginal Affairs.

Hon. Michael Bryant: The member makes reference to violence. In fact, the most violent confrontation, the one that gave rise to a public inquiry, was the Ipperwash confrontation—and in it, the recommendation from Commissioner Linden was very clear. It is not appropriate for the government to enter the law enforcement domain of the police. Law enforcement properly falls within the responsibility of the police. To maintain police independence, the government cannot direct when and how to enforce the law. It is for the police to decide whether and when arrests will be made and the manner in which they will be executed. We will continue to follow that advice.

Haldimand "Mayor Trainer says I Think they are Pooping on Us"

Well the deadline has passed and the answer is official, "no money" for Haldimand County Recovery Plan. Are you surprised?

I usually call and talk to Mayor Trainer regarding issues before I write about them, but in this case I am taking all of my information from an article written by Karen Best of the Chronicle. Karen is an excellent reporter and I trust that all of her information is correct. I have taken some excerpts from the article in particular the ones that I am interested in and made comments under each one. You can either buy the chronicle or go to the link to read the entire story online. Please read the entire article it is very informative.

Thanks Karen for an excellent story, and for informing the public of what has transpired!

Haldimand County council disappointed by provincial government; Protest in the works?

Posted By KAREN BEST
Posted 2 hours ago

Mayor Marie Trainer's sit in by a senior government minister's office door was put on hold until both the provincial and federal governments have time to review Haldimand County's recovery plan.

She and other council members are hoping for more positive responses than those received within the last week. The Ontario government rejected an $8.4 million grant application for a Hagersville sewage plant upgrade and the federal government revealed a set of strings attached to $1.26 million in grant money for replacement of cast iron water pipes in Dunnville. On top of that, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada minister Chuck Strahl rejected council's request for a meeting.

So council will wait until April 21 for a different kind of news.

Earlier this year, the $56 million recovery plan was mailed to Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty and Prime Minister Stephen Harper and a few of their ministers. The plan predominantly focused on expensive infrastructure including improvements to the Dunnville, Cayuga, Hagersville and Caledonia sewage treatment plants and funding for an infrastructure study in the Nanticoke industrial park.

Council members were very disappointed about the Hagersville grant rejection especially when the project met all criteria including ready to build and related to infrastructure. County chief administrative officer Don Boyle and physical services managers planned to seek an explanation for the failed application from officials in the Ontario Ministry of Public Infrastructure Renewal. Boyle held the county's application up against many that were granted a portion of the $450 million provincial Municipal Infrastructure Investment Initiative. Ottawa received the most with $20 million for a library and archives followed by Hamilton with $14 million for trails. A $7 million theatre in Chatham-Kent attracted funding as did a $4.5 million aquatics centre in St. Catharines.

Frustration surfaced in related discussions. Boyle said there was no indication when Ontario will deal with the county recovery plan. "No one seems to have the time," he said.

My understanding of the statement above by Boyle is that the "Government" is telling Haldimand County exactly that, "they have no time for us". You certainly don't need a "brick" to fall on your head to understand that one.

Coun. Buck Sloat suggested camping out to protest and Trainer said that for some time she was considering that as a last resort. "If that's what it takes, we'll sit in front of the minister's office," added Sloat.

Now just a suggestion, but do you think that we (the residents) should ask if we can join Council in their "Sit In"? Or are they just not ready for the support yet.

"We need straight up front conversation with ministries to see where they stand with Haldimand County," said Boyle. In his mind, Plan B can involve galvanizing the community around a common theme - "we need help for this". "They've ignored us," noted Boyle.

"Plan B"? Well we have heard that before. Everyone seems to have a "Plan B", do you know what "Plan B" is? Now here Boyle is talking about the community? Is he asking for our help, now that it is "confirmed" that they have been "ignored"?

Trainer stated that Haldimand County was being held hostage for all of Canada and believed governments wanted to leave it there and forget the municipality. "We have to change that approach," she added.

It would be interesting to find out how Haldimand County is going to change their approach. I would firstly suggest that Haldimand County change their approach to the most important asset that they have and that is the "Residents of Haldimand County"! Have we not been ignored and chastised in all of this?

Trainer said she has taken provincial aboriginal affairs minister Michael Bryant's advice to heart to no avail. Last November, he suggested she stop "pooping" on Premier Dalton McGuinty and she did. Unfortunately that did not open the doors to assistance, she pointed out. Given grant rejection and recent correspondence, she believed the tables were turned.

"I think they are pooping on us," she said.

Well their is the first "secret" that has surfaced, and it wouldn't have been revealed if the money had come our way! We in Haldimand have been "POOPED" on from the beginning, and it is very obvious that our own "Elected Officials" have been aware of this for some time! Is it not time now for Haldimand County to come clean?

While recognizing the camp out as a good suggestion and willing to do it, Coun. Tony Dalimonte convinced council to give the federal and provincial government time to study the huge list of recovery items in front of them.

Well just when you thought that maybe just maybe Council would ask for our help, and bingo, Councillor Dalimonte has convinced Council to just wait a little bit longer. So I guess there is "no" "Plan B" after all! Hello guys, you have been told, when are you going to get it!

"If any good came out of this whole issue, it has brought the county together," noted Trainer. Council members adopted Boyle's suggestion to wait to react until Bryant's April 21 meeting with council.

I would like an explanation for this statement from Mayor Trainer. How has this brought the County "together"? The "Recovery" plan was done behind closed doors and with no interest on behalf of Council or Staff for our input. The plan was forced to be made public by the "Provincial Government" who basically stated they will not give funds unless we hear from the public. Could part of the failure to secure these funds be on the backs of Council members who decided in their wisdom to not follow "due process"?

A change in course from treading lightly may be due, the CAO indicated. "As a county, we need to stand up and be counted," said Boyle about mobilizing council and the community.

The residents of Haldimand County have been asking their own "Elected" officials this for quite some time now. Once again Boyle is asking that the Council and Community get together.

In response to council's request to meet with the minister, his chief of staff wrote that Strahl "must decline". No explanation was provided. As an alternative, he suggested the county ask senior federal negotiator Ron Doering to update them on Six Nations land claim negotiations. "Once again we're getting a brush off," said Boyko who prepared a motion describing the Strahl's response as unsatisfactory and asking for dialogue with the minister. Council unanimously endorsed the motion.

Maybe council is dealing with the wrong ministries because the INAC and the Ontario ministry of aboriginal affairs ministers place First Nations as their top priority, said Trainer.

Sloat pointed out that the first responsibility of every federal minister is to the citizens of Canada. He also asked staff to follow up on Finley's promise to arrange a meeting with Strahl.

http://www.dunnvillechronicle.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=968357&auth=KAREN+BEST

Haldimand "Many Thanks to You".

My 100th "Blog" and my "1st Anniversary"!

Well what a year it has been! It was both challenging and prosperous.

Just about a year ago I started my blog "Haldimand’s Unheard Voice", there were really two reasons why I started my blogging. Firstly I felt that I was an "Unheard Voice" in Haldimand County. As most of you that know me I am very passionate about "grass roots" politics. In the last year I have also become more involved with politics on the Provincial level as well as the Federal level, but my heart is with the "local level", this is where I feel you can really "make a difference".

My second reason for starting a blog was a health issue. I was booked for major surgery in April 2007, and I new I would have a recovery period followed by a six-week treatment regime. I needed something to fill in my time and keep me busy.

I started this blog for what I thought were two very good reasons, what I didn’t think about was where it was going to take me! Isn’t it funny sometimes what live can throw at us?

Each of us individually have our own "support" system, for some it is family and friends for others it is meeting and talking to people in a coffee shop or the grocery store or at an event.

Regardless a support system of some kind is a crucial part of our lives.

I want to take this time to thank the many people who have supported me in the last year. I have so many to thank, here are a few that come to mind:

To my "Family"…..Thank-You!
To my "Friends"……Thank-You!
For all the flowers and cards…..Thank-You!
For all the phone calls……..Thank-You!
For all the people who supported and joined me on the Dunnville Bridge…Thank-You!
For all the goodies that came to us on the Bridge……Thank-You!
For all of you that came out to events that I posted on my blog…..Thank-You!
For the phone calls in support of my letters to the editor……Thank-You!
For all the "Caring, Passionate" people I have met……….Thank-You!
For all of the posters on my "Blog", without you I would not have kept it going. Thank-You!

Don’t ever think that "You" don’t make a difference. Each of us in our own way makes a difference in someone’s life every single day!

Haldimand "My Chat with Jim Dover from Haldimand County"

Last Wednesday I received a phone call from Jim Dover, Manager of Human Resources for Haldimand County. This phone call was in regards to my letter to the editor on March 14th, 2008 in the Sachem. The original post was regarding Haldimand County employees that make over $100,000.00 a year.

We spoke on the phone in depth about “Pay Equity” and “retroactive pay”. There was also some conversation about “comparative” Salaries. I questioned Jim on the comparisons of these positions in particular with the Manager of Corporate Services. As I stated in my blog Norfolk and Brant have a higher tax base, yet Haldimand County pays much higher salaries. Jim explained to me that they did not compare these with Norfolk or Brant, the comparison was with Niagara and Hamilton. I didn’t quite get that, but that is what they did.

If you compare Haldimand with Hamilton in population and tax base, there is nothing to compare too. Haldimand population…..42,000......... Hamilton......... population 503,000, but who am I, and what would I know about these issues?

Jim said that he would send me the reports that had the background information on the “Pay Equity”. Well what I received today is a document called the “Pay Equity Plan”, this is posted for all employees of Haldimand County. The reports that Jim was talking about are “confidential” and he could not send these to me. That makes perfect sense to me that these reports he was talking about would be "confidential", as stated that Grades above "14" are "contracted" positions.

As I was reading this “Pay Equity Plan” on page two it states:

Grades 14 through 17 “are not” included in the Non-Union Pay Equity Plan as positions in these grades are considered “anomalies” in that they are contract positions.

Well there you have it! Most of the Managers and Employees that are listed in the $100,000.00 dollar club are in Grade 14 and above, in particular Manager of Corporate Services.

Jim clarified that Haldimand County also did a “salary comparison” of Managers with Hamilton and Niagara, this was nothing more than a Salary increase in my opinion.

Now I am sure that Haldimand County would have liked me to do a “correction” or a “clarification” on my blog, but as you can see, for me this was not possible.

There is a huge difference between “Pay Equity” and “Pay Comparison”. The reasons behind comparing Haldimand with Hamilton are not justified. This council should have seen this and been "proactive" and "fiscally responsible".

I stick to my original story and that is the end of this story.

Haldimand "Should Council Members be Paid to sit on the Police Services Board?

I have received a few phone calls in the last week from some residents that read my blog regularly. Their concern was in regards to Council Members asking to be paid for sitting on the Police Services Board. The individuals that sit on the Police Services Board are paid from "our" taxes dollars. There are a few people that do not agree with Council including themselves in the pay schedule.

I will leave this one up to you to comment on. The following is an article written last week by Karen Best, and the information that follows is from the Haldimand County Website. I was a bit short on time so I will be updating this in the next couple of days.

First pay cheques coming for council members on police services board

Posted By KAREN BEST

Haldimand County council members who sit on the municipality's police services board are might receive pay cheques starting this year.

In a unanimous decision at a November meeting, board members decided Coun. Lorne Boyko and Mayor Marie Trainer should be treated the same as any other sitting member.

They will receive $4,000 each and, if acting as chair, an additional $1,200. As of March 17, Boyko was board chair and Trainer was vice-chair.

This year will be the first for payment to council members if the police services board budget is approved by county council.

"I think it's appropriate now. We are the only community with a board where citizens are treated differently than elected officials," Boyko pointed out.

In his view, payment on the police services board is the same as payment he receives for sitting on the Grand River Conservation Authority board.

Trainer echoed his logic. "The rest of the committee is receiving it and don't put in any more time than we do," she pointed out.

"(Payment for council members) was not part of the budget until it came to the table," said board administrator Grant Bivol, who is also the county's deputy clerk.

Board member Stewart Patterson moved the salary motion that was seconded by Bill Keenan. Both Trainer and Boyko voted in favour of it. Provincial appointee Tom Patterson was absent due to illness.

Boyko said the board cannot act on the new initiative until Haldimand County council approves the board's 2008 operating budget of $34,600. It includes $8,270 for council member remuneration and benefits.

According to county corporate services general manager Karen General, the Ontario municipal act gives council authority to set remuneration for members on any local board of council. The police services board is autonomous in spending operating money in a budget approved by council, she explained.

However, under the provincial Police Services Act, council is required to pay at least the regulated remuneration to provincially appointed members on the board. As such the board has no authority to set remuneration for any members sitting on the board, explained General.

The proposed remuneration for council members will come forward as a new initiative that council can approve or deny in the county's operating budget, she continued.

Norfolk County council members serving on the police services board have been paid for several years.
http://www.dunnvillechronicle.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=949638&auth=KAREN+BEST
http://www.haldimandcounty.on.ca/Documents/main/policies/05-02%20Expectations%20of%20Council%20Appointees%20to%20Corporate%20Bodies.pdf

The following are the boards that Council Members sit on;

Deputy Mayor One (01) year term from 2006 12 01 to 2008 11 30.
Councillor Buck Sloat

Committees and Boards

Council representation on the following Business Divisions of Council in Committee are for one (01) year from 2006 12 01 to 2008 11 30.

Community and Leisure Services:
Craig Grice, Chair
Don Ricker, Vice-Chair
Corporate Services:
Lorne Boyko, Chair
Tony Dalimonte, Vice- Chair
Joint Services:
Leroy Bartlett, Chair
Craig Grice, Vice-Chair
Physical Services:
Don Ricker, Chair
Leroy Bartlett, Vice-Chair
Planning and Economic Development:
Tony Dalimonte, Chair
Lorne Boyko, Vice-Chair

Council representation on the following local Boards and Committees are four (04) years from 2006 12 01 to 2010 11 30.

Caledonia Business Improvement Area Board of Management
Craig Grice
Court of Revision
Craig Grice
Lorne Boyko
Leroy Bartlett
Buck Sloat (Alternate)
Dunnville Business Improvement Area Board of Management
Lorne Boyko
Grand River Conservation Authority (compensated by Grand River Conservation Authority)
Craig Grice
Lorne Boyko
Niagara, Hamilton, Haldimand, Brant Local Health Integration Network (LHIN)
Buck Sloat
Hagersville Business Improvement Area Board of Management
Tony Dalimonte
Haldimand County Library Board
Don Ricker

Haldimand County Police Services Board
Marie Trainer
Lorne Boyko

Haldimand County Utilities (compensated by Haldimand County Hydro)
Marie Trainer
Buck Sloat
Mosaic Esterhazy Ltd. Committee
Lorne Boyko
Hamilton Airport Noise Management Advisory Committee
Marie Trainer
Long Point Conservation Authority (compensated by Long Point Conservation Authority)
Buck Sloat
Leroy Bartlett
Property Standards Committee
Buck Sloat
Don Ricker
Leroy Bartlett
Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (compensated by Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority)
Tony Dalimonte
Southern Grand River Advisory Board
Buck Sloat
Tom Howe Citizen Liaison Committee
Leroy Bartlett

Council representation on the following Joint Committee is for four (04) years from 2006 12 01 to 2010 11 30.

Health and Social Services Advisory Committee
Tony Dalimonte
Craig Grice
Don Ricker

The Health and Social Services Advisory Committee meets on the third Thursday of each month. Meetings begin at 7:00pm. and the meeting locations alternate between the Health and Social Services Department in Simcoe and the Haldimand County Administration Building in Cayuga.

Haldimand "Minister Bryant will not Answer Toby Barrett"

Hi Toby here,

Please find attached a news release with regard to my third day of questioning to Aboriginal Affairs Minister Michael Bryant regarding extortion demands of the Haudenosaunee Development Institute.

For immediate release: March 20, 2008

Barrett calls for investigation, charges into HDI

Minister won’t look into payment demands holding up builders/governments

Queen’s Park— For the third day in a row, Ontario’s Aboriginal Affairs Minister refused to address questions regarding Haudenosaunee Development Institute (HDI) strong-arm techniques to extort fees from homebuilders, and now governments.

Haldimand-Norfolk MPP Toby Barrett picked up his line of questioning from two previous days of queries to ask where government stands regarding HDI demands for fees.

“Minister, on November 30th – last year – your government met with HDI- the Six Nations Haudenosaunee Development Institute,” stated Barrett. “After your meeting, you, your government, received a letter from HDI – this according to the National Post – demanding a $7,000 fee….or else further talks would be prevented from occuring.”

“Minister, you now have evidence – in writing – of this extortion by HDI we’ve been hearing about. Will your government lay charges?”

Before denying any knowledge of the HDI payment letter, the Minister said it was up to the police to lay charges.

Barrett went on to cite further HDI payment demands.

“Official plans for the city of Brantford, Brant County, Norfolk County, Haldimand County, East Luther – Grand Valley, and the City of Hamilton rural plan are all on hold.” Barrett reported in his supplementary question. “‘All construction from roads to homes will be stopped if an Ontario ministry does not pay for a Haudenosaunee Development Institute review of the Haldimand County Official Plan’ says the Dunnville Chronicle.

“And this from Aaron Detlor, ‘financial institutions ….will completely back away from any development.’ ‘if the ministry refuses to pay, there will be repercussions,’ Detlor said. There you have it Minister – a public threat of “repercussions”. Minister when will you investigate and charge HDI with extortion?”

Bryant responded that the action Barrett is requesting would “further divide” the local communities.

For more information, please contact MPP Toby Barrett at: (519) 428-0446 or 1-800-903-8629