Flood Watch Issued For Grand River Watershed

The Grand River Conservation Authority has issued a Flood Watch for low-lying areas along the Grand River. Warm temperatures, rainfall and snowmelt runoff have caused river levels to rise. Flooding is likely to occur in low-lying areas typically prone to spring flooding.

Flows on local waterways throughout the Grand River watershed will remain elevated through the rest of this week. Ice on local waterways, where it still exists, may break up and shift during this event, increasing the risk of ice jam flooding.

Haldimand County Emergency Services urges residents to stay away from water bodies as the combination of slippery banks and cold, fast-flowing water is extremely dangerous. Parents are reminded to keep children and pets away from these areas.

Landowners are also advised to make sure dams, culverts, and catch basins are free from debris and functioning properly. Helpful resources for property owners regarding flood preparedness are available at HaldimandCounty.ca/emergency-preparedness and HaldimandCounty.ca/floods.

Water levels are expected to remain elevated for the remainder of the week. Both conservation authority & Emergency Services staff will continue to monitor watershed conditions, issue updated flood messages and respond as necessary.

This message will remain in effect until 4:00pm on Thursday, March 12, 2020.

Haldimand County Launching Youth & Seniors Advisory Committees

Haldimand County is pleased to announce the establishment of a Youth Advisory Committee and Seniors Advisory Committee to advise Council and staff on issues impacting these groups. This opportunity will provide community members a unique chance to volunteer their skills, share ideas and contribute to the enhancement of their communities.

All residents with diverse backgrounds, skills and interests are welcome; applications to participate will be available on the County’s website beginning April 1, 2020.

Information Sessions outlining details of general objectives, meeting commitments and other expectations of members will be held across Haldimand County throughout the month of April:

Youth Advisory Committee Information Sessions:

Saturday, April 4; 3:00 p.m. – Cayuga Library + Heritage Centre

Wednesday, April 15; 4:00 p.m. – Haldimand County Caledonia Centre (Arena Remax Room)

Monday, April 20; 4:00 p.m. – Dunnville High School

Thursday, April 23; 7:00 p.m. – Hagersville Arena (Almas Room)

Monday, April 27; 6:00 p.m. – Jarvis Lions Lawn Bowling Club Bldg.

Seniors Advisory Committee Information Sessions:

Thursday, April 2; 9:30 a.m. – Jarvis Lions Lawn Bowling Club Bldg.

Tuesday, April 7; 10:00 a.m. – Dunnville Public Library

Thursday, April 16; 10:00 a.m. – Hagersville Arena (Almas Room)

Tuesday, April 21; 10:00 a.m. – Haldimand County Administration Building (Cayuga)

Tuesday, April 28; 6:30 p.m. – Haldimand County Caledonia Centre (Arena Remax Room)

Interested residents are encouraged to RSVP & indicate which information session they plan to attend. Residents can RSVP by calling 905-318-5932 ext. 6114 or e-mailing cdp@haldimandcounty.on.ca.

Applications to become a member of either Committee will be available at each Information Session and posted online as of April 1, 2020. Applications will be accepted until May 8, 2020.

For more information about the Committees, please e-mail cdp@haldimandcounty.on.ca or call 905-318-5932 ext. 6114.

 

Council Reviews 2020 Tax-Supported Capital Budget

Haldimand County Council reviewed the 2020 Tax Supported Capital Budget on March 5; it will be ratified on Monday, March 9. The Tax Supported Capital Budget outlines $37.1 million of infrastructure investment in 2020, with a total tax-supported infrastructure investment of $246.4 million over the next 10 years. In total, 334 new tax-supported capital projects have been scheduled for the 2020 calendar year.

The 2020 Capital Budget is heavily focused on infrastructure renewal with notable expenditures in areas such as roadway improvements, bridge and culvert rehabilitation and enhancements to corporate, community and recreation facilities.

2020 Capital Budget Highlights:

● $20.2 million towards roadway and active transportation improvements such as paving, reconstruction, resurfacing, gravel road conversion, pedestrian crosswalk installation, sidewalk/curb replacements and street lighting as well as bridge repairs, bridge rehabilitation and other structure-related projects (such as culvert replacements)

● $9.5 million towards community partnership projects and enhancements to parks, trails, arenas, pools, museums and libraries

● $679,000 towards tree conservation and reforestation initiatives

In recent years the County has deliberately increased its investment in capital to ensure that existing facilities are updated, new facilities desired by the community are added and that a funding plan is in place to minimize tax impacts. Money is set aside every year to ensure that when assets need repairs or replacing, funding is available.

“We’re at a point where, during budget preparations, there aren’t a lot of surprises. Staff have applied strong financial principles and asset management practices that result in a predictable, flexible and sustainable capital program. By planning for the long-term, we’re in an excellent position to address priorities and respond to community needs,” said Haldimand County Mayor Ken Hewitt.

Similar to past years, the capital levy, funded by property taxes, will increase by about $672,000, or about 1% of the overall municipal levy. The total municipal levy for 2020 will be determined in April once the 2020 Tax Supported Operating Budget is approved by Council.

The 2020 Tax Supported Operating Budget will be presented to Council on the following dates:

• April 22 & 23*, 2020 – 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the new Haldimand County Administration Building Council Chamber (*if required)

More information on Haldimand County budgets can be found at HaldimandCounty.ca/Financials/Budgets/. You can view the full 2020 Tax-Supported Capital Budget document on the Budgets page.

County-Wide Broadband Internet Project Moving Ahead

During Council in Committee on Tuesday, March 3, staff provided a verbal update regarding the County-wide broadband internet project. Substantial progress has been made to date and the County is on track to secure an internet service provider (ISP) capable of delivering county-wide broadband internet by spring 2020.

With assistance from a third party Technical Consultant, staff have prepared a draft Project Agreement (PA) outlining all technical and financial project requirements including: 1) the technical feasibility of proposed service deployment, 2) service deployment timelines and 3) a comprehensive cost analysis. These components are of critical importance and will guide evaluations of all ISPs moving forward.

Next steps involve finalizing the draft PA, issuing the Negotiated Request For Proposal (NRFP) and facilitating individual consultations with the 3 pre-qualified ISPs – KWIC Internet, Metroloop Inc. & Xplornet. Consultations are expected to take place over the next several weeks and will provide valuable insight into the technical and financial feasibility of all ISP proposals.

“Council is committed to finding a financially sound, practical solution that makes internet connectivity attainable and sustainable for everyone,” said Haldimand County Mayor Ken Hewitt. “We’re taking all steps necessary to ensure we find the right provider that is capable of delivering these services in the long-term,” he added.

The draft PA and NRFP will be shared with the public once finalized. Once available, residents will be invited to review these documents and provide input on technical and financial components of the project (e.g: minimum download speeds, service costs, etc). More information regarding this community consultation will announced shortly.

Staff intend to issue the NRFP in April and negotiate an agreement with the successful ISP by the end of May.

Flood Watch upgraded to Flood Warning for Lake Erie shoreline

The Flood Watch for the Lake Erie shoreline has been upgraded to a Flood Warning. High winds, waves and freezing spray conditions are expected to cause flooding and impact properties along the lakeshore overnight Thursday & into Friday.

Environment Canada has issued a Gale Warning for the eastern end of Lake Erie. Gale force winds of 34 to 47 knots are occurring or expected to occur before diminishing later Friday. A wave warning has also been issued indicating waves of up to 3-4 metres near noon Friday before subsiding later in the day. A freezing spray warning will also be in effect Thursday overnight and into Friday.

The Port Maitland Pier has been closed due to unsafe conditions and Haldimand County Emergency Services is urging the public to stay away from this area. Fire Chief Jason Gallagher is also encouraging residents to avoid non-essential travel along the lakeshore as wave spray may result in hazardous road conditions.

“Residents should remain alert throughout this weather event, keep a close eye on changing conditions and watch for updated flood messages and weather warnings,” said Jason Gallagher, Haldimand County’s Fire Chief & Manager of Emergency Services. Residents are also encouraged to contact their insurance provider about flood insurance & ice damage if they do not already have it.

The MNRF’s surge model forecast for the eastern end of Lake Erie is indicating a rise in levels of 2.3 metres (7.6 feet) above chart datum of 173.5 m IGLD85 at the gauge in Port Colborne. The peak level is forecast to occur around 8 pm Thursday evening.

The MNRF forecast is predicting the following in the vicinity of Port Maitland:

Lake Erie current elevation at Port Maitland:       175.2 m (IGLD 1985)

Lake Erie estimated to peak at:                                     175.6 m (IGLD 1985), excluding waves

Lake Erie Expected time of peak:                                  Thursday, February 27 (around 8 pm)

Critical Level:                                                                          175.5 m (IGLD 1985)

Forecast (estimated) Peak Lake Level:                        0.1 m above the critical level, excluding waves

Area of Impact:                                                                      Zone 1 flood zone along Lake Erie Shoreline

 

Haldimand County Emergency Services will be actively monitoring conditions throughout Thursday and Friday.

A flood guide for lakeshore property owners and other emergency preparedness resources can be found at HaldimandCounty.ca/floods.

This Flood Warning message will remain in effect until 4pm on Friday, February 28, 2020 and will be updated as needed.

Flood Watch Issued For Lake Erie Shoreline

A Flood Watch for the Lake Erie shoreline. With high winds in the forecast, flooding is expected to impact very low-lying areas of the Lake Erie shoreline and lower reaches of some tributaries.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) is currently forecasting Lake Erie to rise in Long Point by 0.3 meters above the current level to an elevation of 175.2 meters (IGLD 1985), and in the Port Colborne area 0.65 meters above the current level to an elevation of 175.55 meters (IGLD 1985). Strong winds are expected to cause wave heights to reach up to 1.7 meters in the Long Point area and up to 1.5 meters towards the eastern limits of the watershed.

Water levels will start to drop slowly around midnight tonight and will continue to decrease into Saturday.

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. Freezing spray will also pose a risk to shoreline properties and residents are advised to shut storm shutters. Increased erosion due to strong waves is also possible.

Haldimand County Emergency Services will be actively monitoring conditions throughout Thursday. 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 Saturday, February 29 2020 and will be updated as required.

Heritage Centre In Cayuga Hosting Conservation Workshop, Irish Celebrations And More This March

The Heritage Centre has announced its March program lineup at the new Cayuga Library + Heritage Centre facility. Residents and visitors are invited to learn how to take care of family heirlooms, celebrate all things Irish and discover how one of Haldimand County’s politicians became the Speaker of the House. Program registration may be completed online or in-person at the new Haldimand County Administration Building using the code provided.

 

Heritage Series: You’ve Come Along Way Baby – March 10 (6:30 pm)

In celebration of Women’s History Month, this talk will explore the roles of women through the ages. By the 19th century, Canadian women increasingly protested against discrimination in education and paid employment as well as violence against women and children. This sparred the suffragette movement which would eventually garner women the right to vote. Pre-registration is required for this program; cost is $10/person. Code: 10946.

 

Adult Workshop: Preserving Your Family Heirlooms – March 11 (1 pm)

Here is your opportunity to learn how to take care of those precious family heirlooms! In this hands-on session, Museum staff will teach you how to care for documents, photos, or objects and stop the damage caused by common environmental threats (mold, water, etc). Pre-registration is required for this program; cost is $10/person. Light refreshments will be provided. Code: 10331.

 

Historic Talk: When Irish Eyes are Smiling – March 17 (6:30 pm)

This talk will explore the migration of Irish settlers to Canada and Haldimand County during the 19th century. The potato famine and the promise of a new life in Canada saw the migration of thousands of Irish people fleeing poverty and oppression in their homeland. The building of the Grand River Canal saw an influx of Irish settlers to Haldimand County. Pre-registration is required for this program; cost is $10/person. Code: 10332.

 

Historically Speaking-Irish Customs & Traditions Tea & Talk – March 18 (1 pm)

At this very Irish afternoon participants will celebrate by wearing of green, learning about Irish culture and exploring its superstitions with Heritage Centre staff. Homemade scones and other Irish treats will be served. Pre-registration is required for this program; cost is $15/person. Code: 10333.


Life & Times Series: Jacob Baxter, A Man for the People – March 25 (1 pm)

This informative talk will showcase the life of Jacob Baxter, a renowned Haldimand physician and politician. After graduating from the University of New York and the Bellevue Hospital Medical College, Jacob came to Cayuga to set up a medical practice in partnership with his younger brother Benjamin. In 1867 he was elected as the Liberal Member of the Legislative Assembly for Haldimand. In 1887 he was appointed the Speaker of the House, a post he held until 1894. Code: 10334.

Anyone seeking further information about museum programs may call 905-772-5880 or email: museum.archives@haldimandcounty.on.ca. The Heritage Centre is located at 19 Talbot St W, Cayuga.

Watershed Conditions Safety Issued For Lake Erie Shoreline

On Friday, February 21, Long Point Region Conservation Authority issued a Watershed Conditions Statement for the Lake Erie shoreline.

Weather forecasts are calling for 40-50 km/hr sustained southwest winds beginning this afternoon and continuing into Saturday. While no major flooding is anticipated, significant waves and a minor lake surge is expected. There is also a chance for some freezing spray off the lake as temperatures are expected to remain below zero.

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 conditions overnight and through Saturday. Residents should pay close attention to changing weather conditions and watch for updates flood messages. A flood guide for lakeshore property owners and other emergency preparedness resources are available at HaldimandCounty.ca/floods.

Lake Erie is expected to remain elevated until around noon on Saturday. This watershed conditions statement will remain in effect until 4pm on Saturday, February 22, 2020.

Last Call For Nominations – Haldimand County Business Excellence Awards

Haldimand County’s Business Excellence Awards are held annually to recognize exceptional local businesses. Nominations will be accepted until Friday, February 14, 2020, and residents are encouraged to submit their nomination packages in full prior to this date.

The winners of the 2019 Business Excellence Awards will be announced at the annual Business Excellence Awards Breakfast. The breakfast event will be held on Wednesday, April 8 at the Fisherville Community Centre beginning at 7:30 am. Winners will be announced in each of the following categories:

  • Agri-business
  • Business – over 10 employees
  • Business – 10 employees and under
  • Not-for-profit
  • Tourism
  • NEW – Real Potential Award – Recognizes outstanding young entrepreneurs and new businesses that have been in business for under 3 years. Sponsored by the Grand Erie Business Centre.

“The Business Excellence Awards are a great opportunity to come together, network and celebrate Haldimand County businesses,” explained Lidy Romanuk, Manager of Haldimand County’s Economic Development and Tourism Division.

Nomination forms can be found at BusinessHaldimand.ca and submitted online or in-person at any County office.

All business owners and business organizations across Haldimand are invited to attend the Business Excellence Awards Breakfast. There is no cost to attend, but attendees are required to RSVP. Members of the business community interested in attending may RSVP online at BusinessHaldimand.ca, by calling 905-318-5932 ext. 6331 or by e-mailing opportunity@haldimandcounty.on.ca.

Haldimand Museums hosting annual Valentine Tea, Heritage Day festivities and more this February

Haldimand County Museum & Archives is pleased to offer four exciting events at the new Cayuga Library + Heritage Centre this February. Spend an afternoon at the Valentine Tea, explore Haldimand’s heritage and learn about its Black History. Pre-registration is required for all paid events; you can register online or at any Haldimand County Offices using the code provided.

Mark your calendars and join us:

February 12 – Historically Speaking – Cupid’s Arrows (1pm)
Our traditional Valentine Tea followed by a Valentine mystery for you to solve. Beginning with our traditional homemade scones and fresh raspberry jam, the afternoon will continue as you learn the clues to solve our Valentine mystery. Cost is $15/pp. Pre registration is required.  Code: 10327

February 17 – Heritage Day in Selkirk sponsored by North Erie Shore Historical Society (10am to 5pm)
Plan on attending this free event at Selkirk Centennial Community Hall on Family Day. Heritage displays, entertainment, hands on activities & fun for kids of all ages. Haldimand Museums will be there with a tribute to the 1920s. This event is free and everyone is welcome!

February 18 – Life & Times Series- Haldimand’s Black History (6:30pm)
The talk will focus on the history of Black settlement in Haldimand County and the connection to the Underground Railroad. The Underground Railroad was a network of secret routes and safe houses established in the United States. This network was used by African-American slaves to escape into free states and Canada, with the aid of abolitionists and allies. Cost is $10/pp   Code: 10329

February 22 – Heritage Series-TV Mania (1pm)
The invention of the television revolutionized how we are entertained. Families gathered around the TV to enjoy a variety of programs, and advertisers were thrilled with this new media giving them the opportunity to market their productions into everyone’s living room. This talk will explore the history TV and how it changed the world.
Cost is $10/pp Code: 10330

For more information contact the museum at 905-772-5880 or
email: museum.archives@haldimandcounty.on.ca. Haldimand County Museum & Archives is  located within the new Cayuga Library + Heritage Centre at 19 Talbot St, Cayuga.