A Fresh New Look: Haldimand County Council Approves New Corporate Logo And Brand

In April 2019, Council reviewed a proposed new logo and brand as part of its approved Economic Development Strategy. After deliberation and some suggested modifications to the concept, Council additionally approved staff recommendations to adopt the logo for corporate use.

Creating a new brand and logo to market the County was identified as a priority in 2017 following the development of comprehensive economic development & tourism strategies. The Council-approved strategies outlined the need for a strong brand to raise the County’s profile and differentiate it in the minds of prospective investors, visitors and businesses to foster economic growth.

In 2018, the County received funding from the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) Rural Economic Development Fund to conduct the brand strategy. Hamilton-based consultants CQNS were retained to lead the brand strategy’s development, which included multiple stages of research and stakeholder engagement including online/telephone surveys, the formation of a brand steering committee and public meetings held within each community.

During the development of the new Economic Development & Tourism brand, an opportunity to update the Haldimand County corporate logo was identified. For the past 18 years, the County has had a Coat of Arms (used for formal business) as well as a logo (used for marketing and communication purposes). The County’s corporate logo usage policy – instituted in 2001 – acknowledged that the logo would have a limited lifespan and require periodic updating.

The new logo provides a fresh new look for Haldimand County and portrays the county’s natural beauty while symbolizing its potential as a great place to live, work and play. “A cohesive, contemporary corporate identity helps portray the benefits of our community to residents, businesses, investors and visitors,” said Don Boyle, Haldimand County’s Chief Administrative Officer. “Haldimand County has evolved significantly since 2001 & the new logo reflects our community’s increased vibrancy, dynamism & potential,” he added.

Part of the re-brand involved the creation of a new tagline that celebrates what makes
Haldimand a unique destination for both visitors and prospective investors. The new Economic Development & Tourism tagline – Real. Potential. – speaks to two key elements of Haldimand County’s character: authenticity and opportunity.

Real is just how we live. It is about authentic and sincere experiences with people who are proud of who they are and what they have created.

Potential is our promise. We want to show people what Haldimand County is – a place where you can create a new business, have unique experiences and make a real impact.

“This is an exciting change and marks a turning point in the way we communicate the benefits of the County,” said Haldimand County Mayor Ken Hewitt. “While our commitment to the business community in Haldimand will not change, there is incredible potential to grow. Cities and surrounding regions throughout Ontario are marketing themselves directly and in defined, refreshed ways; the new branding puts Haldimand in a position to compete for those opportunities,” he continued.

The new logo will be rolled out incrementally. Replacement of roadside and building signage, as well as updates to County publications bearing the old logo, will occur gradually over time to minimize costs. The majority of County assets and materials will be updated as they are re-ordered, re-printed or replaced.

For more information about the new logo and brand visit HaldimandCounty.ca/HCbrand.

Funding for the brand strategy was provided by the Government of Ontario’s Rural Economic Development Fund.

Haldimand County CAO Announces Departure, New CAO Appointed By Council

Haldimand County Council has appointed a new CAO following the resignation of current CAO Don Boyle, who has accepted an employment opportunity in the private sector.

At the June 27, 2019 Committee of the Whole meeting, Mayor Hewitt announced on behalf of Council that Craig Manley, General Manager of Community & Development Services, will be appointed as Haldimand County’s new CAO. Manley will take on the title of Interim CAO on August 1, 2019 until his employment contract is finalized on September 3, 2019. As of September 3, he will officially assume his new leadership role as CAO.

“The County is in a very good place thanks to the dedication of Don, his Senior Management Team and all supporting staff. On behalf of Council I sincerely thank him for his service and wish him great success in the future,” said Mayor Ken Hewitt.

“It is on to a new chapter in Haldimand’s journey, and I am very pleased to have Craig Manley at the helm. Craig has consistently demonstrated his strong leadership skills and commitment to Haldimand County time and time again. His attention to detail, foresight, and knowledge of municipal operations – especially planning – will no doubt lead us into further success,” he continued.

“I am grateful to have worked with Council past and present, my team, County staff and the community,” said Chief Administrative Officer Don Boyle. “I leave the County for a new opportunity knowing we have the right leadership team in place and a Council that is committed to doing what is best for the community,” said Boyle.

Over the next four weeks, Boyle will work with Manley as he transitions into his new role as CAO.

Ward 2 Community Vibrancy Fund Grant Will Help Construct New Playground At J.L. Mitchener

On Thursday, June 27, Ward 2 Councillor John Metcalfe presented J.L. Mitchener Public School principal Mark Finochio with a $6,000 grant from the Ward 2 Community Vibrancy Fund for the purpose of constructing new playground equipment for students and neighbourhood children.

J.L. Mitchener Public School’s Parent Committee was able to fundraise $27,000 of the estimated $34,000 playground equipment cost. Councillor Metcalfe introduced a motion to provide a CVF grant for the remaining $6,000 and it was approved at the June 24th Council meeting.

Under the Community Vibrancy Fund agreement established in 2011, renewable energy companies with projects in Haldimand County are required to contribute to the Community Vibrancy Fund annually for 20 years. The distribution of CVF funds to geographic areas of the County are based on the proportion of wind/solar power and transmission infrastructure in each ward.

Council approved a number of principles and prioritization criteria to govern the use of CVF funds and ensure they are appropriated to directly benefit residents. As per the CVF principles, funds may be utilized for: land stewardship initiatives, developing/constructing County recreational facilities, enhancing community and protective services, improving roads/public municipal infrastructure and other community-focused activities.

Principal Mark Finochio expects that construction on the playground will begin mid-July and be complete by September 2019.

Photo (left to right): Haldimand County CAO Don Boyle, J.L. Mitchener Public School Principal Mark Finochio, Ward 2 Councillor John Metcalfe. 

Press Release: Summer Programming For Kids Kicks Off At Wilson MacDonald Museum

This summer, Wilson MacDonald Memorial School & Museum is offering a number of fun, artistic and educational programs for kids in its extremely unique, one-room schoolhouse setting.

Daily programs run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and at each session, kids will take part in at least three projects – from wind chimes and other pieces of garden artwork and crafts to tie-dye pillowcases, decorating cupcakes, painting and more. Daily workshop themes include:

Thursday, July 11 – Whimsical Wind Chimes

Friday, July 12 – Art Attack

Thursday, July 18 – Woodworking 101

Friday, July 19 – Baa, Baa, Black Sheep

Thursday, July 25 – Winter Wonderland

Friday, July 26 – Scientific Art

Thursday, August 1 – Summer Camp Survivors

Friday, August 2 – Somewhere at the Beach

Thursday, August 8 – Beauty Spa Day

Friday, August 9 – Cartoonist Camp

Thursday, August 15 – Knight at the Museum

Friday, August 16 – Silly Scientists

As well as learning new skills and creating arts and crafts, participants will be able to tour the Museum’s latest exhibits — including the current “Auld Selkirk”, with its nod to the region’s Scottish plaids — and learn about the average school day in a one-room classroom.

Designated a National Historic Site of Canada, Wilson MacDonald Memorial School Museum in Selkirk is dedicated to preserving the history of rural education, the heritage of the surrounding community and the memory of poet Wilson Pugsley MacDonald, who was born in the neighbouring hamlet of Cheapside and attended the school house as a young boy.

Workshop fees are $26.25 per child per day and include all supplies. Registration may be completed online at link.haldimandcounty.ca or in-person at any County office. Anyone seeking further information about the museum or its programs are encouraged to call 905-776-3319.

Haldimand County Firefighters Conducting Annual Household Smoke Detector, Carbon Monoxide Alarm Inspection Program

Over the next few months, Haldimand County’s volunteer firefighters will be out in the community conducting carbon monoxide detector and smoke alarm checks. The annual program aims to educate residents about the importance of having working alarms and provide assistance with installation and/or battery replacement.

The annual inspections are one of many public education initiatives in the County’s Fire Prevention program, which is mandatory under the Province’s Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997. In 2018, the Fire Department inspected 542 homes and installed 42 smoke alarms, 58 carbon monoxide detectors and 24 batteries.

“People are very receptive to us coming to their door,” said Jason Gallagher, Haldimand County’s Manager of Emergency Services & Fire Chief. “Some of them are actually surprised when we tell them their equipment needs to be updated. It’s just not top-of-mind, and it really has to be,” he continued.

As per the Ontario Building Code, smoke alarms must be installed be on every floor of a dwelling and outside all sleeping areas within a home. CO detectors need to be adjacent to sleeping areas as well as fuel burning appliances in the home or an attached garage.

Gallagher noted that while many households pass the inspection, firefighters always come upon cases where alarms are completely absent or installed but have either dead batteries or none at all. “It’s important to note that residents won’t be penalized or fined if, during a check, firefighters discover that they don’t have working alarms. We’ll simply provide an alarm or batteries and help get them installed,” Gallagher continued.

Simple smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector tips:

– Install smoke alarms on every storey and outside all sleeping areas of your home. For added protection, install a smoke alarm in every bedroom according to manufacturer’s recommendations. Larger homes may require additional smoke alarms.

– Install carbon monoxide alarms outside all sleeping areas if your home has a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace or attached garage. For added protection, install a carbon monoxide alarm on every storey of your home according to manufacturer’s recommendations.

– Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms monthly by pressing the test button. Change the batteries every year.

– Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors wear out over time. Replace these according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Residents with questions about fire prevention are encouraged to make use of the resources available on the County website or contact the County’s Fire Prevention Bureau at 905-318-5932.

Haldimand Museums Hosting 15th Annual Car And Truck Show June 23

Haldimand Museums will be hosting its 15th Annual Car & Truck Show on Sunday, June 23 at the Selkirk Community Park (17 Kent Street, Selkirk) from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Admission to the family-friendly event is by donation; a $5.00 entry fee applies to vehicles.

The popular annual event provides a meeting ground for vehicle enthusiasts from around Southern Ontario. “We had a great turn-out last year and the show was great fun for everyone,” said Wilson MacDonald Memorial School Museum Curator Dana Stavinga. “We are hoping that the weather will be cooperative but in any case, it’s a wonderful day for car lovers.”

While the event is centered around cars and trucks, there will be a silent auction, door prizes and trophies for drivers. DJ Frank Vessero will be on site playing music from the 50’s and 60’s and Shelly’s Family Dining from Kohler will be serving up a variety of food.

For information about the Car Show please contact the Wilson MacDonald Memorial School Museum at 905-776-3319.

From left to right: Fred Stevenson Francis (Haldimand Museums Advisory Board), Bob Tietz, Bill Mageran, owner, 56 Ford F100, Kathy and Keith Schaeffer (1937 Ford) and Rick Hughes.

Community Vibrancy Fund Contributions Exceed $6 Million, Fund Over 100 Community Projects Since 2011

In September 2011, Haldimand County Council passed resolutions to establish a Community Vibrancy Fund (CVF) and agreement with companies pursuing renewable energy projects within the County. To date, $6,351,620 has been contributed to the CVF by these companies, which has funded over 100 community projects.

Under the agreement, renewable energy companies with projects in Haldimand County are required to contribute to the Community Vibrancy Fund annually for 20 years. For solar and wind energy projects, annual company contributions are calculated by the projects’ nameplate capacities, or total power output per year (in megawatts). For transmission projects, annual company contributions are based on kilometres of power line.

By 2031 – at the end of the agreement’s 20-year lifespan – approximately $40 million will have been contributed to the CVF by the following companies:

● Grand Renewable Solar LP
● Grand Renewable Wind LP
● Capital Power Corporation
● Summerhaven Wind LP (Nextera)
● FWRN LP (Niagara Wind)

“When the CVF was first introduced, residents had questions. How is this money going to be allocated? How will it benefit me and my family? Since the fund was established, we’ve seen some amazing community assets developed and infrastructure projects expedited that wouldn’t be feasible otherwise,” noted Mayor Ken Hewitt. “Putting the funds to good use has meant working with councilors, constituents and community partners to determine areas of need and identify opportunities that will make an impact,” he noted.

The distribution of CVF funds to geographic areas of the County are based on the proportion of wind/solar power and transmission infrastructure in each ward. Council approved a number of principles and prioritization criteria to govern the use of CVF funds and ensure they are appropriated to directly benefit residents. As per the CVF principles, funds may be utilized for: land stewardship initiatives, developing/constructing County recreational facilities, enhancing community and protective services, improving roads/public municipal infrastructure and other community-focused activities.

Notable & recent CVF-funded projects include:

● Jarvis Lions Park Trail & Pathway
● Dunnville Farmers Market & Waterfront Park
● Hagersville Splash Pad
● Cayuga Library & Heritage Centre
● Cayuga Grand Vista & Gypsum Mine Tract trails
● Fisherville Lions Park & Hall enhancements
● Road enhancements & rehabilitation work (e.g: expedited gravel road conversions such as
Yaremy Road, shoulder widening on Cheapside Rd., Dunnville bridge noise mitigation project, etc.)
● Cayuga Tourism Booth improvements
● Rural streetscaping in York, Byng, Fisherville & Selkirk

Each year during the Capital Budget process, CVF initiatives and relative rankings/prioritizations are reassessed by Council to ensure funds are used strategically to meet community needs.

Haldimand County Seeking Public Input To Enhance Public Parks In Cayuga

Haldimand County is seeking community input to enhance public parks in Cayuga. Public meetings have been scheduled for June 20 (2pm – 4pm & 7pm – 9pm) at the Cayuga Arena (McSorley Hall) to collect resident ideas and establish a community-driven vision for the Cayuga parks system with a focus on the Village Green, Cayuga Library parkette, Bob Baigent Park and the Cayuga Administration Building/museum property.

“Public parks and green spaces are important community assets with long lifespans. We want to work with residents to design the best possible solutions that can be enjoyed now, and for years to come,” said Haldimand County Mayor Ken Hewitt.

Landscape architecture and planning firm Stempski Kelly Associates Inc. have been contracted to facilitate the community engagement process and develop designs for the four public parks. Initial meetings in June will focus on identifying the types of parks-related amenities desired by residents and where they could be located. Community engagement meetings will be highly visual with design exercises that result in a ‘real-time’ capturing of resident ideas.

Following the initial meeting, Stempski Kelly Associates Inc. will prepare draft concepts and present them for resident review and input. Concept review meetings dates will be announced in late summer 2019. “This is an excellent opportunity to provide input on the development of public green space, and we’re encouraging residents to attend meetings at all phases of the project,” Mayor Hewitt noted.

Cayuga Parks Community Engagement – Session #1

Thursday, June 20, 2019

McSorley Hall – Cayuga Arena

55 Thorburn St. S, Cayuga

2pm to 4pm (afternoon session) OR 7pm to 9pm (evening session)

No registration is required to attend the community engagement sessions, and all are welcome. Residents seeking further information about the Cayuga parks community engagement sessions are encouraged to call 905-318-5932 or e-mail Haldimand County’s Community Development & Partnerships division at cdp@haldimandcounty.on.ca. A final concept design and report, along with estimated costs, will be presented to Council in fall 2019.

Nomination Period Opens For Haldimand County’s 19th Recognition Night

Every year, Haldimand County celebrates the significant contribution volunteers make to the vibrancy of community life for residents and visitors. The County is now accepting nominations of individuals, community groups and organizations to be honoured at its 19th Annual Recognition Night, taking place October 17, 2019. This year’s “whodunit” theme will create an air of mystery for honourees and guests.

This is a great opportunity for anyone to nominate a community project, festival, event, organization or individual, highlighting the positive impact they have made within the community. Nominations are being accepted for the following award categories:

  • Volunteer of the Year;
  • Youth Volunteer of the Year;
  • Community Organization or Group of the Year;
  • Community Project Award;
  • Community Festival & Event Award;
  • Caring Haldimand Award;
  • Heritage Haldimand Award;
  • Community Culture Award; and,
  • Wall of Fame Induction (Caledonia, Cayuga, Dunnville, Hagersville, Jarvis).

Nominations may be submitted by filling out the appropriate form on the County website or picking one up at any County office. Anyone wishing to submit a nomination is asked to complete the application in full and provide as much detail and supporting documentation as possible. Nominations must be submitted to any County office by August 23, 2019 and will be judged by an independent committee.

Formal invitations to attend the 19th Annual Recognition Night will be sent to nominees, community groups, organizations and agencies. Anyone seeking further information may e-mail cdp@haldimandcounty.on.ca or call 905-318-5932 ext. 6370.

‘Healthy You’ Series At Haldimand County Public Library Brings Healthcare Information To Residents

In partnership with the Haldimand Family Health Team, Haldimand County Public Library will be offering ongoing health education sessions at its branches throughout the year. The series will include free, informative programs about important health topics led by registered healthcare professionals.

“This is an exciting partnership that gives the public a chance to meet with health professionals, learn how to stay healthy and ultimately improve their quality of life,” said Michael Feraday, Executive Director for the Haldimand Family Health Team.

The Healthy You Series in 2019 will highlight one topic per program. Topics include: eating for one on a budget, coping with stress, understanding anxiety & depression, heart health, surviving menopause and conflict management. Program dates, times and locations are listed on the library website.

Registration is required for all Healthy You Series programs. Interested community members may register in person at the library branch hosting the session or by calling 289-674-0400. More information about the Healthy You Series can be obtained via the library website or by calling the Haldimand Family Health Team at 905-768-9599 ext.1000. Residents are also encouraged to contact the Haldimand Family Health Team at the phone number above to suggest topics for upcoming Healthy You Series programs.