Haldimand County Council Approves 2020 Tax-Supported Operating Budget

On April 21, 2020, Haldimand County Council met virtually to review and approve the 2020 Tax Supported Operating Budget. The budget results in a total levy requirement of $69,823,910, which equates to a residential tax impact of about 0.93%, or about $2.50 per month for an average residential property owner.

“The 2020 Tax-Supported Operating Budget represents a financially sustainable, responsive plan that ensures the continued delivery of essential services our communities value,” said Mayor Ken Hewitt. “When we announced the property tax payment grace period on March 19, we also directed staff to scrutinize and evaluate this budget extra carefully in light of the COVID-19 situation. All aspects of the budget have been carefully evaluated case by case to ensure they contribute to our corporate priorities, especially given the current economic climate,” he continued.

Generally, the annual Tax Supported Operating Budget pays for day to day operations of the County, including salaries, wages, utilities, insurance and services such as running arenas/programming, keeping the roads safe, maintaining locals parks and cemeteries, providing emergency services (fire, police and ambulance), collection of garbage and recyclables & related activities.

The 2020 Tax-Supported Operating Budget highlights several investments in service delivery and community vibrancy, including enhanced support/resources for community partnership projects, facilities/parks maintenance and technology-related services that improve customer experience.

Additionally, the budget outlines the creation of a new Climate Change and Emergency Response Provisions fund to address the financial impacts of these events (e.g: flooding, pandemics) and ensure the County is prepared to respond.

“By taking a strategic, long-range financial planning approach, the County is well-positioned to deliver high-quality, affordable services now and in the future,” added Hewitt.

Haldimand’s Chief Administrative Officer Craig Manley notes that the budget was developed to meet community needs while minimizing the overall impact on taxpayers. “While there are some new initiatives and budget lines introduced to meet increased or emergent needs, we’ve been able to offset those costs by holding the line on other items.”

On average, a residential property owner can expect their annual property taxes to be allocated as follows:

More information on County budgets and budget processes is available on the County website via HaldimandCounty.ca/financials/budgets.

Haldimand County Fire Department Asks For Public Cooperation With Open Air Fire Burning By-Law

With a return to warm weather there has been an increase in the number of recreational and non-recreational fires occurring throughout Haldimand County. So far this year several of the fires have been found to violate Haldimand County’s Open Air Fire Burn By-law. As a result, several Notice of Violations have already been issued.

With the warmer weather upon us and in light of the current COVID-19 pandemic, the Haldimand County Fire Department is asking for the public’s co-operation in complying with these by-laws, which are in place to ensure fires remain safe and controlled.

Recreational fires are allowed in all areas without a permit provided the fire meets all of the regulations set out in By-law 1662-16. These regulations include, but are not limited to: ensuring the fire is contained; that it is set back at least 10 meters from all combustible structures/objects and 4m from any property line; that the fire is supervised at all times and that smoke produced from the recreational fire has no adverse affects. Favourable weather conditions must also be present in order to have a recreational fire: there must be no fog, no air quality alerts, no burn bans & winds must be less than 20 km/hr.

Non-recreational fires are only permitted in rural areas of the County and require a burn permit. Non-recreational fires must meet all of the regulations set out in By-law 1662-16. These regulations include, but are not limited to: ensuring fires are supervised at all times; contained to an area not exceeding 6 meters by 6 meters and is set back at least 60 meters from all combustible structures/objects. Residents who have burn permits may conduct burns as long as they are following the by-laws. No new burn permits are being issued at this time.

Open air fires that are not conducted according to the by-law present potential safety hazards. Anyone found conducting an open air fire without a current permit are subject to enforcement, provincial prosecution and recovery of costs required to respond to and/or extinguish the fire.

The by-law and further information on open air burning can be found at HaldimandCounty.ca.

Council meetings, budget review to be held virtually

On Tuesday, April 21, Haldimand County Council will review the 2020 Tax-Supported Operating Budget. In order to practice physical distancing, both Council members and senior staff will be participating in the meeting remotely. Some other time-sensitive reports are also included on Tuesday’s agenda along with updates related to the pandemic. The meeting will live streamed via HaldimandCounty.ca/livestream.

Tuesday, April 21 Council Schedule

9:15am to 9:30am – Special Council Meeting
A meeting to amend the procedural by-law to authorize the holding of meetings with electronic participation during the emergency.

9:30am to 4:30pm* – Committee of the Whole
A meeting to consider the 2020 Tax Supported Operating Budget and time-sensitive matters.
* Please note that this time is approximate and may change based on the duration of agenda item discussions.

Immediately following Committee of the Whole – Special Council Meeting
This meeting will be held immediately following the Committee of the Whole meeting to ratify recommendations from the meeting.

As facilities are closed to the public, delegations will not be able to attend in person, however, they can submit comments regarding agenda items to clerk@haldimandcounty.on.ca prior to the meeting.

To watch Council meetings live, individuals may visit HaldimandCounty.ca/livestream. Select the appropriate meeting from the calendar, then open its agenda. The live video will appear in the right-hand corner of the agenda.

More information and a copy of the draft 2020 Tax-Supported Operating Budget is available at HaldimandCounty.ca/financials/budgets. Agendas for the April 21 meetings are also available on the County website.

Fire Chief Reminds Residents To Be Fire Safe During COVID-19 Pandemic

The Haldimand County Fire Department is urging everyone not to forget about fire safety throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. As people find themselves spending more time at home for work, self-isolation, or practicing physical distancing, they should remember the importance of preventing home fires.

Along with other essential services, the fire department has had to implement safeguards and physical distancing protocols in the workplace. Residents of Haldimand County are advised of the following changes to fire department services during the COVID-19 pandemic response:

 

  • Haldimand County Fire Department is only responding to critical medical calls during the pandemic, in order to keep our firefighters safe and able to respond to other significant emergencies (ex. fires, MVCs, and rescues).
  • Response times should not be affected, however, Fire Dispatch is required to ask mandatory COVID-19 screening questions to relay to responding firefighters.
  • If residents are concerned about open air fires in their area, they should call 911 and the fire department will respond. If the burn is outside of the regulations of the burn by-law or there is no burn permit, charges could be laid. All other complaints are to be made through the County’s Fire Prevention Bureau at 905-318-5932.
  • All Fire Stations and Headquarters are closed to the public.

Fire Chief Jason Gallagher is also urging the public to remain vigilant in the ongoing battle to prevent unintentional fires and injuries by practicing fire prevention and fire safety during these extraordinary times. “Regardless of the circumstances, additional time at home with family members provides an excellent opportunity to discuss fire safety and review your home fire escape plan,” says Gallagher.

Here are some simple things that people can do to protect themselves and their families:

 

  • Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms using the test button. If the alarm fails to sound, check and replace batteries if necessary. Make sure everyone knows the sound of the alarms.
  • Develop or review your home fire escape plan to make sure everyone in the household knows what to do if a fire occurs. Make sure to designate someone to help older adults, children, and anyone else who may need help to escape.
  • Use care when using and recharging electronic devices such as laptops, tablets, or mobile devices. Check electrical cords and charge cables to ensure they are in good condition. Don’t overload electrical circuits. Avoid placing electronics on soft surfaces like beds or upholstered furniture when recharging to avoid the risk of overheating.

As the Haldimand County Fire Department continues to do their best to keep the community safe under these extraordinary circumstances, it is imperative that the public does all that they can to practice fire safety in the home and take the necessary steps to protect themselves and their families from the risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning.

For more information about fire safety, contact Haldimand County Fire Department or visit the County’s fire safety website at https://dev.haldimandcounty.ca/main_website/fire-services/.

Haldimand County Scales Back Workforce In Response To COVID-19

In response to extended closures and the suspension of non-essential services by the Province of Ontario, Haldimand County has made the difficult decision to temporarily put a number of casual, part-time and full time employees affected by service and facility closures on a Declared Emergency Leave of Absence.

Since the declaration of the COVID-19 Emergency the County has closed all public libraries, parks and recreation facilities, museums, community halls and has reduced other services to promote social distancing.

“We have wonderful and committed  employees who care very much about their community,” said Craig Manley, Haldimand County’s Chief Administrative Officer. “This is an action we had hoped we would not have to take but unfortunately one we needed to as COVID-19 continues to affect our community and some of the services we’re able to deliver.”

The emergency leave affects approximately 107 employees who deliver recreation programs, library & cultural services, economic development services, some facilities maintenance staff, some administrative support functions, part-time staff and others. Essential and critical services relating to roads operations, water and wastewater services, garbage and recycling, critical maintenance and repair, by-law and permits, emergency services, Grandview Lodge and essential supporting functions continue to be provided.

Some functions such as building maintenance and outside park maintenance will continue on a limited basis and will be restricted to essential minimum levels until the emergency is over. Where possible, staff have been redeployed to other functions to respond to the COVID-19 emergency.

The County is supporting staff affected by the temporary emergency leave including continuing eligible benefits, ensuring they have the resources they need to access government support services including the Canada Emergency Response Benefit, and/or employment insurance benefits.

The County has been taking a tiered approach in its response to COVID-19, which includes evaluating the implications of Provincial Emergency Orders and information provided by Health Officials in terms of the likely duration of the emergency. Like other municipalities facing extended closures and cancellations, the County is adapting to ensure the safety of its workforce and the continued delivery of critical community services.

“The County will continue to provide the critical and essential services our community relies on every day as we continue responding to this unprecedented situation,” noted Manley.

“The decision to reduce our staffing levels was an extremely challenging one. We’ve made extended efforts to keep all staff at work for as long as possible, but under these extraordinary circumstances, have had to make some difficult decisions that are in line with a new economic reality. Our commitment to providing high quality services to the community remains unchanged in this emergency, and I look forward to welcoming staff back once COVID-19 is no longer a threat to public health & safety,” said Haldimand County Mayor Ken Hewitt.

Significant Flooding & Erosion Expected Along Lake Erie Shoreline Monday, Haldimand County Emergency Services Ready To Respond

A Flood Warning remains in effect for the Lake Erie shoreline. The storm in the forecast for Monday is expected to cause extremely dangerous conditions. With high winds and waves anticipated, there is a high risk of flooding, erosion and property damage midday through Monday evening.

Individuals currently staying at properties along the lake are being urged to leave and return to their permanent residences. Permanent residents should shelter in place until otherwise directed by emergency officials, unless at any time they feel their safety is in jeopardy, in which case they should leave immediately. Haldimand County Emergency Services staff will be monitoring conditions and are prepared to respond as needed. Preparations are underway should evacuations be deemed necessary.

Residents who are unable to leave lakeshore residences or require support in finding temporary accommodations/shelter are encouraged to contact Victim Services at 1-800-264-6671. Residents are also reminded of the following storm contacts:

If you are facing an emergency, dial 9-1-1.  9‑1‑1 is for police, fire or medical emergencies when immediate action is required. During a flood, dial 9-1-1 only if you feel your safety is at risk.

To report a public roadway obstruction (e.g: downed tree, water over the road or debris blocking a roadway) call 1-888-849-7345.

If you see a downed power line caused by a storm or accident, maintain a distance of 10 metres or more and report it to both 911 and Hydro One at 1-800-434-1235.

If you are experiencing a power outage, call Hydro One’s 24/7 province-wide outage hotline at 1-800-434-1235. You can view Hydro One’s live outage map which includes restoration time information.

It is important to note that the static lake level is currently about 35-40 cm (roughly 1.25 feet) higher than during the strong wind events in October & November of last year which will have an impact on the severity of this event.

People are urged to stay away from Lake Erie shoreline areas experiencing strong wave action and elevated water levels. Parents are reminded to keep children and pets away from these areas.

High winds can toss loose objects and turn them into extremely dangerous projectiles. For this reason, residents are urged to shut storm shutters and tie down or secure outdoor items. Debris and water on roadways is another hazard associated with this storm event, and individuals who must travel should do so with extreme caution. It is NEVER safe to drive through floodwater.

Residents should pay close attention to changing weather conditions and watch for updated flood messages. A flood guide for lakeshore property owners and other emergency preparedness resources can be found at HaldimandCounty.ca/floods.

Check the Haldimand County website, Facebook & Twitter pages for the most up-to-date flood messages. You can also tune in to 92.9 The Grand FM, Haldimand’s official emergency broadcast partner.

This Flood Warning will remain in effect until Tuesday, April 14 at 2pm and will be updated as needed.

Severe Conditions Expected Along Lake Erie Shoreline Monday, People Asked To Leave Lakeshore Residences, Cottages

A Flood Warning remains in effect for the Lake Erie shoreline. The storm in the forecast for Monday is expected to cause extremely dangerous conditions. With high winds and waves anticipated, there is a high risk of flooding and property damage.

Individuals currently staying at properties along the lake are encouraged to leave and return to their permanent residences. Permanent residents should shelter in place until otherwise directed by emergency officials, unless at any time they feel their safety is in jeopardy, in which case they should leave immediately. Haldimand County Emergency Services staff will be monitoring conditions and are prepared to respond as needed. Preparations are underway should evacuations be deemed necessary.

Environment Canada has issued a gale warning, forecasting strong southwesterly winds of 65-75 km/h and gusts up to 100 km/h over Lake Erie on Monday afternoon and evening. With the forecasted winds, flooding is expected to impact low lying areas along the Lake Erie shoreline and lower reaches of some tributaries. Wave uprush and increased shoreline erosion can be expected from this event.

It is important to note that the static lake level is currently about 35-40 cm (roughly 1.25 feet) higher than during the strong wind events in October & November of last year.

People are urged to stay away from Lake Erie shoreline areas experiencing strong wave action and elevated water levels. Parents are reminded to keep children and pets away from these areas.

High winds can toss loose objects and turn them into extremely dangerous projectiles. For this reason, residents are urged to shut storm shutters and tie down or secure outdoor items. Debris and water on roadways is another hazard associated with this storm event, and individuals who must travel should do so with extreme caution. It is NEVER safe to drive through floodwater.

Haldimand County Emergency Services & Public Works Operations staff will be actively monitoring lake/road conditions and are prepared to respond if necessary. Residents should pay close attention to changing weather conditions and watch for updated flood messages. A flood guide for lakeshore property owners and other emergency preparedness resources can be found at HaldimandCounty.ca/floods.

Check the Haldimand County website, Facebook & Twitter pages for the most up-to-date flood messages. You can also tune in to 92.9 The Grand FM, Haldimand’s official emergency broadcast partner.

This Flood Warning will remain in effect until Tuesday, April 14 at 2pm and will be updated as needed.

Flood Warning in effect for Lake Erie shoreline ahead of Easter Monday storm

A storm is in the forecast for Easter Monday. With high winds and waves anticipated, there is a risk of flooding in areas along the Lake Erie shoreline.

The expected time frame of biggest impact along the shoreline is approximately between mid-day Monday through Monday evening. Water levels are expected to exceed those seen this past Thursday/Friday when winds were weaker and coming from a more westerly/north-westerly direction.

It is important to note that the static lake level is currently about 35-40 cm (roughly 1.25 feet) higher than during the strong wind events in October & November of last year.

People are urged to stay away from Lake Erie shoreline areas experiencing strong wave action and elevated water levels. Parents are reminded to keep children and pets away from these areas.

High winds can toss loose objects and turn them into extremely dangerous projectiles. For this reason, residents are urged to shut storm shutters and tie down or secure outdoor items. Debris on roadways is another hazard associated with this storm event, and individuals who must travel should do so with extreme caution.

Haldimand County Emergency Services & Public Works Operations staff will be actively monitoring lake/road conditions and are prepared to respond if necessary. Residents should pay close attention to changing weather conditions and watch for updated flood messages. A flood guide for lakeshore property owners and other emergency preparedness resources can be found at HaldimandCounty.ca/floods.

This Flood Message will be updated as needed, as forecast information becomes available.

Flood Watch for Lake Erie shoreline upgraded to Flood Warning

The Flood Watch for the Lake Erie shoreline has been upgraded to a Flood Warning. With high winds in the forecast, there is a risk of flooding in low-lying areas of the Lake Erie shoreline and downstream of the Dunnville Dam in Port Maitland.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) is forecasting sustained strong southwest and west winds ranging from 40 to 50 km/hr, and gusts in excess of 60 km/h Thursday afternoon continuing into Friday. Some light, mixed precipitation is also expected to accompany this event.

The MNRF surge model forecast for the eastern end of Lake Erie is indicating a rise in levels of 2.06 metres (6.8 feet) above chart datum of 173.5 m IGLD85 at the gauge in Port Colborne. The peak above critical level is forecast to occur Thursday evening between approximately 8:00 p.m. and 12:00 a.m. Waves of up to 0.85 m are expected.

After receding overnight, a second peak with surge forecast just below warning levels is forecast for Friday morning. Water levels are expected to remain elevated until Friday morning.

People are urged to stay away from Lake Erie shoreline areas experiencing strong wave action and elevated water levels. Parents are reminded to keep children and pets away from these areas.

Haldimand County Emergency Services will be actively monitoring lake conditions and is prepared to respond if necessary. Residents should pay close attention to changing weather conditions and watch for updated flood messages. A flood guide for lakeshore property owners and other emergency preparedness resources can be found at HaldimandCounty.ca/floods.

This Flood Warning is in effect until noon on Sunday, April 11, 2020 and will be updated as needed.

Flood Watch in effect for Lake Erie shoreline

The Long Point Region Conservation Authority has issued a Flood Watch for the Lake Erie shoreline. Strong winds and high waves are expected to cause flooding in very low-lying areas along the shoreline beginning Thursday morning and continuing into Friday.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) is forecasting sustained strong southwest and west winds ranging from 40 to 50 km/hr, and gusts in excess of 60 km/h Thursday morning continuing into Friday. Forecast models are currently forecasting water levels to remain elevated from Thursday morning until Friday morning.

With the forecasted winds, flooding is expected to impact very low-lying areas of the Lake Erie shoreline and lower reaches of some tributaries. People are urged to use caution or stay away from Lake Erie shoreline areas experiencing strong wave action and elevated water levels. Parents are reminded to keep children and pets away from these areas.

Haldimand County Emergency Services will be actively monitoring lake conditions. Residents should pay close attention to changing weather conditions and watch for updated flood messages. A flood guide for lakeshore property owners and other emergency preparedness resources can be found at HaldimandCounty.ca/floods.

This Flood Watch is in effect until noon on Friday, April 10, 2020.