It's taking time for some readers to understand what this blog is about.
I occupy a seat at the Council table. I have an opportunity to participate in town business as she is being conducted.
I can keep people who choose to read my posts informed in a way never possible before.
I've been doing it snce August 2007.
Numbers of viewers and visitors are recorded daily.
A spike in numbers reflects increased interest. It can be as high as sixty.
Controversy sends numbers zooming. It's the nature of things.
I don't create the drama I just relate it.
Last night was a for instance. Council refused to deal with an agenda of twenty-six items,204 pages and awards of ten million dollars of contracts.
It was general committee. Recommendations were made for Council approval next week.
We had a tie vote on one project. $1.4 million for additional soccer fields identified as a need in the Master Recreation Plan, adopted by the last Council.
Once a Master Plan is approved, it's staff responsibility to proceed with plans to implement.
Developer charges are collected for needs identified in the plan. Regulations require needs to be identified to justify collecting developer charges.
By the time a report is presented to Council months of work by many people, has already been done to determine estimates to accomplish one or other of the objective of the Council adopted Master Plan .
The Strategic Plan about to be approved will have the same implications.
Council will likely adopt it. It cost $80.000.for a consultant to prepare .
It will be the work plan for the Executive Leadership Team for twenty years. If Council directs anything else to be done, a consultan will have to be retained because staff are too busy with their own work.
Last night's proposal for $1.4 million worth of soccer fields is an example of how the system works.
Within the plan, a cost of $278,000 was identified as necessary as a result of timing.
If the project could wait until 2.c developers are further advanced with their plans, theoretically that amount could be saved.
The vote was four to four.The Mayor was absent.
The count could change by the time it gets to Council
The decision is not as simple as it may seem.
Developer charges will pay ninety per cent of the cost..
We can't use the funds for other purposes.
Cash-in-lieu of parks reserves can provide the rest.
But more used for one project,is less available for the next and the need for economy is ever present.
If the plan is not approved , month's of man hours in planning will have been wasted.
Costs do not decrease with time.
Shelving the plan will not necessarily result in savings.
Site preparation, a large part of the cost, would be less if the job had been completed when the baseball diamond was built.
A big stink was made then about that price tag being $1.6 million.
Former Councillor MacEachern knew places where baseball diamonds were built for half that amount.The price tag came in under a million.
Plaudits claimed for the politicians. .
The tricky thing is this ;playing fields have to be flat .
We live high in the hills. We enjoy fabulous scenery when the view is unimpeded .
When it comes to creating sports fields, we literally have to move mountains.Prep work takes months.There's no way around it. Humps, bumps and lumps are everywhere.
A man made mountain when the Stronach Centre increased with construction of the diamond. Prep work of the entire site was not done.
There was an understanding from our Federal M.P. Lois Brown. the project would qualify for a stimulus grant .No application was made.
This post was to be about another $450,000 contract approved to be awarded last night.
I will tell about that tomorrow. .
Wednesday, 20 June 2012
Tuesday, 19 June 2012
World of Wonder
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "Where
Angels Fear ToTread":
Doesn't everything about Aurora town's working operations screech to a halt for the summer? Is there time to slip a big idea through in the little time remaining?
****************
It isn't just Council that goes into recess. Once the kids get out of school, everybody scatters. Nothing much can be accomplished during the summer months. That hasn't changed.
It's odd though how things do change.
We close the town hall down through Christmas and New Year's.
Sometimes it almost seems there's an exodus of the Executive Leadership Team during the March Break.
A continual string of notices of not being in the office for a week, after that, seems to be the norm.
Between vacation time,statutory holidays, time off in lieu , charity golf games, Regional meetings and staff conferences,I sometimes wonder how any work gets done at all.
I don't think of conferences, when everybody sits around and gabs about airy-fairy notions, as work.
But that's just me, living in the past, I guess.
Our agenda carries a regular Regional Report from the Mayor written by Regional staff.
I learned once, town staff read regional agendas for the regional members and provide the members with an overview.
Imagine how informative that is with four or five or three or two or one, regional council members having staff reports of one level of government read for them by another level.
I have the impression counterparts at the two levels of government have regular strategy conferences.
I keep meaning to ask for the total figure of vacations , time off in lieu, statutory holidays and professional conferences, for the Executive Leadership Team.
I'm afraid it might represent an entire person year, or more, of non- productivity.
I'm also certain total costs for consultant's, who do what existing staff don't have time to do, probably represents in excess of more than one person year of executive salary.
I think, if a modern municipality was a private corporation, not public, it would be bankrupt many times over in any given year.
**********
A question is asked about the properties which have been the subject of private discussions between individual members of Councl and proponents of sales of more than a couple of million dollars to the municipality.
The properties are on either side of the Hilary House.Separately owned.
The President and a member of the Historical Society member have initiated the discussions but the Historical Society.takes no ownership of the idea that the town should buy both properties and create sort of a Heritage Disney Land in Aurora.
Doesn't everything about Aurora town's working operations screech to a halt for the summer? Is there time to slip a big idea through in the little time remaining?
****************
It isn't just Council that goes into recess. Once the kids get out of school, everybody scatters. Nothing much can be accomplished during the summer months. That hasn't changed.
It's odd though how things do change.
We close the town hall down through Christmas and New Year's.
Sometimes it almost seems there's an exodus of the Executive Leadership Team during the March Break.
A continual string of notices of not being in the office for a week, after that, seems to be the norm.
Between vacation time,statutory holidays, time off in lieu , charity golf games, Regional meetings and staff conferences,I sometimes wonder how any work gets done at all.
I don't think of conferences, when everybody sits around and gabs about airy-fairy notions, as work.
But that's just me, living in the past, I guess.
Our agenda carries a regular Regional Report from the Mayor written by Regional staff.
I learned once, town staff read regional agendas for the regional members and provide the members with an overview.
Imagine how informative that is with four or five or three or two or one, regional council members having staff reports of one level of government read for them by another level.
I have the impression counterparts at the two levels of government have regular strategy conferences.
I keep meaning to ask for the total figure of vacations , time off in lieu, statutory holidays and professional conferences, for the Executive Leadership Team.
I'm afraid it might represent an entire person year, or more, of non- productivity.
I'm also certain total costs for consultant's, who do what existing staff don't have time to do, probably represents in excess of more than one person year of executive salary.
I think, if a modern municipality was a private corporation, not public, it would be bankrupt many times over in any given year.
**********
A question is asked about the properties which have been the subject of private discussions between individual members of Councl and proponents of sales of more than a couple of million dollars to the municipality.
The properties are on either side of the Hilary House.Separately owned.
The President and a member of the Historical Society member have initiated the discussions but the Historical Society.takes no ownership of the idea that the town should buy both properties and create sort of a Heritage Disney Land in Aurora.
Monday, 18 June 2012
Where Angels Fear ToTread
Hello,
I was wondering if you happen to know anything about where and what the
"Redman(?)" property is and any rumblings about development. Has anything been
proposed to council?
Thanks
**********
I received an e-mail invitation for a private discussion involving real estate. The name "Redman" may be one of the properties involved.
I did not accept. I believe the invitation went to all Councillors.
The process is completely inappropriate. I informed the party of that fact.
No Councillor has authority to discuss real estate deals with any party or make a commitment on behalf of the town.
Real estate matters are handled by senior staff.
Councillors must keep their distance.
Honestly!!!!
Honestly!!!!
I understand, despite my warning, the proponents proceeded with their plan to meet with Councillors and persuade them, individually, of the merits of the real estate deal.
I further understand , they have expressed confidence of support and encouragement for a deal that calls for a combined expenditure of millions of public dollars.
I am concerned.
I am unaware of any proposal made to the Town through proper
channels.
channels.
Sunday, 17 June 2012
A Six Page Report
Weeks ago, former Councillor ,School Board Trustee and Retired with Distinction, Parks Manager Norm Weller, came to Council and gave sage advice about the emerald ash borer and trees in general.
He also spoke about what it meant to have the parks vehicles green
and not white.
I agreed.
I went through the lengthy, laborious process of giving written notice of motion and two weeks later, presented the motion with several whereases to explain the rational .
Most of Council was supportive.I referred to previous staff advice and noted I had made inquiries and determined the commercial color green does not cost more.
Councillor Thompson, who had two weeks to make his own inquiries, once again sought the director's advice .
Does it cost more for parks trucks to be green.
The director replied in the affirmative. He said yes it does.
Councillor Thompson took a position on the need to be careful with taxpayers money and we should not spend if we don't have to.
Councillor Ballard went further and offered the opinion it would probably cost $1000 more for each truck.
On one hand a Councillor, having done the work necessary to support the resolution made a definitive statement. No increased cost.
On the other, a director continued to advise Council there is.
The decision was deferred until the next council meeting when the true fact could be determined.
In the intervening time, I asked the fleet manager of Highland Chev Olds a favor. Would he circulate an e-mail to the Mayor and Council advising them the fact it does not cost more to have the trucks in the colour called Woodland Green.
The Council meeting came and went. The report was not on the agenda.Being on the committee agenda means it will not be enacted until still another week has passed.
The last two paragraphs on page 5 of the 6 page Director's report read as follows:
The Town recently closed a tender for 3(three) trucks for the Parks Division.This tender is ready for award.Should Council recommend reverting to green for all parks vehicles ,this is the first opportunity to do so.
The preferred vendor was contacted to determine any impacts to the cost or delivery of changing from white to green and verified there would be no impact based on this change.
Over the page under the section Financial Implications, the report states a cost of $2,850 if the white trucks on hand are re-painted.
The resolution before Council specified, it is not intended for current trucks to be re-painted.
There was agreement on Council that the Parks trucks should be green. Some Councillors were even willing to pay extra.
I believe the colour should not have been changed in 2009 without Council authority.
But a significant aspect of the issue is; a dispute between a Councillor and a Director over an easily determined fact.
Two Councillors took a position based on inaccurate information provided by staff.
There is no good reason for that to happen.
He also spoke about what it meant to have the parks vehicles green
and not white.
I agreed.
I went through the lengthy, laborious process of giving written notice of motion and two weeks later, presented the motion with several whereases to explain the rational .
Most of Council was supportive.I referred to previous staff advice and noted I had made inquiries and determined the commercial color green does not cost more.
Councillor Thompson, who had two weeks to make his own inquiries, once again sought the director's advice .
Does it cost more for parks trucks to be green.
The director replied in the affirmative. He said yes it does.
Councillor Thompson took a position on the need to be careful with taxpayers money and we should not spend if we don't have to.
Councillor Ballard went further and offered the opinion it would probably cost $1000 more for each truck.
On one hand a Councillor, having done the work necessary to support the resolution made a definitive statement. No increased cost.
On the other, a director continued to advise Council there is.
The decision was deferred until the next council meeting when the true fact could be determined.
In the intervening time, I asked the fleet manager of Highland Chev Olds a favor. Would he circulate an e-mail to the Mayor and Council advising them the fact it does not cost more to have the trucks in the colour called Woodland Green.
The Council meeting came and went. The report was not on the agenda.Being on the committee agenda means it will not be enacted until still another week has passed.
The last two paragraphs on page 5 of the 6 page Director's report read as follows:
The Town recently closed a tender for 3(three) trucks for the Parks Division.This tender is ready for award.Should Council recommend reverting to green for all parks vehicles ,this is the first opportunity to do so.
The preferred vendor was contacted to determine any impacts to the cost or delivery of changing from white to green and verified there would be no impact based on this change.
Over the page under the section Financial Implications, the report states a cost of $2,850 if the white trucks on hand are re-painted.
The resolution before Council specified, it is not intended for current trucks to be re-painted.
There was agreement on Council that the Parks trucks should be green. Some Councillors were even willing to pay extra.
I believe the colour should not have been changed in 2009 without Council authority.
But a significant aspect of the issue is; a dispute between a Councillor and a Director over an easily determined fact.
Two Councillors took a position based on inaccurate information provided by staff.
There is no good reason for that to happen.
Saturday, 16 June 2012
This Week's Agenda
It's the last General Committee meeting before the summer recess.
There are 28 items and 295 pages.
I am going out to sit on my deck .. do some sewing ... and enjoy the summer afternoon.
Agenda Item 14 is worth reading. Six pages long,. it's about the color green for parks trucks.
The administration said it costs more. I said it doesn't.
There should be no argument. But there is. Six pages of it.
There are also several million dollars worth of contracts to award.
I haven't tallied them yet but I will.
There are 28 items and 295 pages.
I am going out to sit on my deck .. do some sewing ... and enjoy the summer afternoon.
Agenda Item 14 is worth reading. Six pages long,. it's about the color green for parks trucks.
The administration said it costs more. I said it doesn't.
There should be no argument. But there is. Six pages of it.
There are also several million dollars worth of contracts to award.
I haven't tallied them yet but I will.
No Wonder You Can't get Your MInd Around It..the Fence That is.
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "No
Fence Application or Permit granted":
WHY do they need the fence? It must cost a heck of a lot and serves no purpose that I can see besides irritating the neighbours who have to look at the damn thing.
***********
They need the fence to charge $5. admission to get into the park and listen to the music.
They declared $150. thousand dollars revenue last year. They gave $6 thousand . to charity.
Part of the reveune in 2012 was a grant from Heritage Canada.
In 2011 the Trillium Foundation found them deserving of a generous hand-out.
They have "hundreds " of volunteers working for nothing
The manager and the entertainers get what's left after they give $6 thousand to charity
This will be the third year the fence has been erected around the park.
The first year, the festival manager directed staff to rent port-a-potties for the children in the water park.
The public washrooms belonged to festival organisers.
On account of how much they had not paid.
WHY do they need the fence? It must cost a heck of a lot and serves no purpose that I can see besides irritating the neighbours who have to look at the damn thing.
***********
They need the fence to charge $5. admission to get into the park and listen to the music.
They declared $150. thousand dollars revenue last year. They gave $6 thousand . to charity.
Part of the reveune in 2012 was a grant from Heritage Canada.
In 2011 the Trillium Foundation found them deserving of a generous hand-out.
They have "hundreds " of volunteers working for nothing
The manager and the entertainers get what's left after they give $6 thousand to charity
This will be the third year the fence has been erected around the park.
The first year, the festival manager directed staff to rent port-a-potties for the children in the water park.
The public washrooms belonged to festival organisers.
On account of how much they had not paid.
I Had No Idea
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "No
Fence Application or Permit granted":
An Academic Question: Why would a vendor pay a fee to Aurora's Chamber of Commerce for permission to sell in the Street Sale when it could set up in the Park for no fee at all?
*****************
There is no evidence a vendor vends free in the park during the Jazz Festival, with the park fenced off for the three days of the August holiday week-end, to allow for admission to be charged, to a venue the organizers receive for free.
The only thing I know for sure is, they are not paying a vendor's fee or any other fee to the owners of the park. That being the Town of Aurora.
There is evidence the beer garden and food vendor may even be conveying the proceeds of their efforts to the festival organizers.
The Rotary Club and Optimist Club passed up the opportunity when the demand was made to hand over the money.
***************
I learned something new at Tuesday's Council meeting. The Town applies and receives $25,000. grant from the federal government
to help finance the July 1st Celebration. We have been receiving the grant for years apparently.
That means when we budgeted $14,000, in 2010 for the parade alone, including $2,000 for the St Kitts woman to hire her own personal assistant, to help her organize the parade.total spending for July 1st, plus staff time. was in excess of $40,000.
I did not know that.
I just remembered something else I heard. I don't know if it's true. Farmers Market vendors, who do pay vendors fees to the town, were offered a lesser rate from the organizers of the Jazz Festival.
Isn't that a hoot?
An Academic Question: Why would a vendor pay a fee to Aurora's Chamber of Commerce for permission to sell in the Street Sale when it could set up in the Park for no fee at all?
*****************
There is no evidence a vendor vends free in the park during the Jazz Festival, with the park fenced off for the three days of the August holiday week-end, to allow for admission to be charged, to a venue the organizers receive for free.
The only thing I know for sure is, they are not paying a vendor's fee or any other fee to the owners of the park. That being the Town of Aurora.
There is evidence the beer garden and food vendor may even be conveying the proceeds of their efforts to the festival organizers.
The Rotary Club and Optimist Club passed up the opportunity when the demand was made to hand over the money.
***************
I learned something new at Tuesday's Council meeting. The Town applies and receives $25,000. grant from the federal government
to help finance the July 1st Celebration. We have been receiving the grant for years apparently.
That means when we budgeted $14,000, in 2010 for the parade alone, including $2,000 for the St Kitts woman to hire her own personal assistant, to help her organize the parade.total spending for July 1st, plus staff time. was in excess of $40,000.
I did not know that.
I just remembered something else I heard. I don't know if it's true. Farmers Market vendors, who do pay vendors fees to the town, were offered a lesser rate from the organizers of the Jazz Festival.
Isn't that a hoot?
Friday, 15 June 2012
Another Stage...A New Chapter
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "Copycat":
Comments don't appear, then they do, but then they vanish.
Indecisiveness and vacillation - just what people want in an elected official.
**************
Everyone reading here has to know, I learned how by doing ..
Comments are part of it. Anonymous contributors influence the content.
By publishing a comment or not, the picture gains it's definition.
I would rather anonymity than no participation .
But harsh things have been said here about Councillors that I would not say.
I suspect they would not be said at all if names had to be attached.
I have not been comfortable with it.
It's not fair. .
The string of snark comments is an example to how the blog can be changed by one or more anonymii.
It's not obvious at the beginning. It seems harmless.Then,. emboldened, the pace quickens and purposeis revealed.
Then I have to re-assess. .
A couple of days ago a severe comment was made about Councillor John Abel.
Nope, I thought,that's the limit.
I put a halt to snark comments as well and removed them last night.
I can do that. It's my blog. I take responsibility.
Then the above comment appeared this morning.
After a complaint yesterday I did not publish the criticism of Councillor Abel.
If I am unwary, the blog could easily be sabotaged .To some extent it has.
It's guerrilla warfare.
Yesterday's complaint was " Seems it's alright for some Councillors but not others".
It's valid .
So from now on, kindly refrain from making personal comments about a Councillor's appearance and harsh criticism..
Differing opinions on a Councillor's position or an inconstency are welcome.
Just because you don't need to identify yourself doesn't mean you can go hog wild.
I will continue to make my observations to reflect the dynamics of the 2012 Council. My name is out there for all to see.
My bias and imperfections will be revealed.
The need to project myself as a paragon of viirtue has never been at the central core of my being.
I don't think I'm perfect, always right, can't do better. I'm content to keep on trying.
Councillors are people like everyone else,just trying to do the best they can.
Not filling a vacancy on the newly created Councillors remuneration committee was decided on Tuesday night.
I said I thought we should be paid just for bearing with each other The snappy response that came with a laugh was" some more than others"
I did talk a lot on Tuesday. I usually do. But Tuesday was over the top.
No doubt I am often a thorn in everybody's side
I don't really mind.
It's a price I am willing to pay.
But I do need to believe, on balance, what I do is better than not doing it.
Comments don't appear, then they do, but then they vanish.
Indecisiveness and vacillation - just what people want in an elected official.
**************
Everyone reading here has to know, I learned how by doing ..
Comments are part of it. Anonymous contributors influence the content.
By publishing a comment or not, the picture gains it's definition.
I would rather anonymity than no participation .
But harsh things have been said here about Councillors that I would not say.
I suspect they would not be said at all if names had to be attached.
I have not been comfortable with it.
It's not fair. .
The string of snark comments is an example to how the blog can be changed by one or more anonymii.
It's not obvious at the beginning. It seems harmless.Then,. emboldened, the pace quickens and purposeis revealed.
Then I have to re-assess. .
A couple of days ago a severe comment was made about Councillor John Abel.
Nope, I thought,that's the limit.
I put a halt to snark comments as well and removed them last night.
I can do that. It's my blog. I take responsibility.
Then the above comment appeared this morning.
After a complaint yesterday I did not publish the criticism of Councillor Abel.
If I am unwary, the blog could easily be sabotaged .To some extent it has.
It's guerrilla warfare.
Yesterday's complaint was " Seems it's alright for some Councillors but not others".
It's valid .
So from now on, kindly refrain from making personal comments about a Councillor's appearance and harsh criticism..
Differing opinions on a Councillor's position or an inconstency are welcome.
Just because you don't need to identify yourself doesn't mean you can go hog wild.
I will continue to make my observations to reflect the dynamics of the 2012 Council. My name is out there for all to see.
My bias and imperfections will be revealed.
The need to project myself as a paragon of viirtue has never been at the central core of my being.
I don't think I'm perfect, always right, can't do better. I'm content to keep on trying.
Councillors are people like everyone else,just trying to do the best they can.
Not filling a vacancy on the newly created Councillors remuneration committee was decided on Tuesday night.
I said I thought we should be paid just for bearing with each other The snappy response that came with a laugh was" some more than others"
I did talk a lot on Tuesday. I usually do. But Tuesday was over the top.
No doubt I am often a thorn in everybody's side
I don't really mind.
It's a price I am willing to pay.
But I do need to believe, on balance, what I do is better than not doing it.
Thursday, 14 June 2012
No Fence Application or Permit granted
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "Sesquicentennial
Rocks":
Did anyone mention if an application has been filed to fence off the Park for the Jazz event? Not sure if it would be legal but the clock is running on that event. They really need to get their house in order for July.
**************
I have seen a copy of the permit application for use of the bandshell and three areas of the park.
The application is made and signed by Sher St. Kitts.
The permit is for use of the park. No user fee is charged.
The permit is for use of the band shell. The user fee is charged.
There is no reference to a permit applied for or granted to erect a fence around the park or any part of the park.
There is no place on the form for such a permit application. Or fee to be charged to erect a fence.
The parks bylaw states only the director has authority to erect a fence.
The parks bylaw makes no reference to any party being allowed to rent space to vendors to do business within the park.
The parks bylaw states only the director has authority to contract with food vendors to provide food in the park.
Did anyone mention if an application has been filed to fence off the Park for the Jazz event? Not sure if it would be legal but the clock is running on that event. They really need to get their house in order for July.
**************
I have seen a copy of the permit application for use of the bandshell and three areas of the park.
The application is made and signed by Sher St. Kitts.
The permit is for use of the park. No user fee is charged.
The permit is for use of the band shell. The user fee is charged.
There is no reference to a permit applied for or granted to erect a fence around the park or any part of the park.
There is no place on the form for such a permit application. Or fee to be charged to erect a fence.
The parks bylaw states only the director has authority to erect a fence.
The parks bylaw makes no reference to any party being allowed to rent space to vendors to do business within the park.
The parks bylaw states only the director has authority to contract with food vendors to provide food in the park.
Snark Attacks
It's time for the snark attacks to cease. They contribute nothing.
Start your day with a blog of your own and watch your readership grow.
Or not.
My son Stephen dropped by today. He brings a bottle of Valpoliceli
red. We have a glass together on the deck. Then he drives home to Kitchener.
Stephen was with me three and a half years before his brother Frank joined us. There were five years then before Martin came along. In the seven years following, Theresa ,Heather,Mark and Andrew enlarged and completed the circle.
I usually have a second glass after Stephen leaves. Today, I had not had lunch. So it was two full glasses of the red in fairly short order without food.
That's why the post started;
"Listen to me carefully. I shall say this only w-a-n-ce " in a fake French accent.
I was feeling very benevolent.
I started off with positive points in mind to make about a couple of defeated incumbents in the last election .
By the time I reached the point where I ended it, I knew you wouldn't believe it. I was no longer sure I believed it myself.
So...I didn't bother
Start your day with a blog of your own and watch your readership grow.
Or not.
My son Stephen dropped by today. He brings a bottle of Valpoliceli
red. We have a glass together on the deck. Then he drives home to Kitchener.
Stephen was with me three and a half years before his brother Frank joined us. There were five years then before Martin came along. In the seven years following, Theresa ,Heather,Mark and Andrew enlarged and completed the circle.
I usually have a second glass after Stephen leaves. Today, I had not had lunch. So it was two full glasses of the red in fairly short order without food.
That's why the post started;
"Listen to me carefully. I shall say this only w-a-n-ce " in a fake French accent.
I was feeling very benevolent.
I started off with positive points in mind to make about a couple of defeated incumbents in the last election .
By the time I reached the point where I ended it, I knew you wouldn't believe it. I was no longer sure I believed it myself.
So...I didn't bother
"Listen to me carefully. I will say this only w-a-n-c-e
It's a line of dialogue, in an exaggerated French accent, from a Brit-com on PBS.
It features Rene's Cafe in Nazi-occupied France during the war.
Renee is a bemused Frenchmen caught up in all manner of
predicaments involving a dreadful spouse,. lascivious waitresses,a mother-in-law, female French underground characters, downed behind enemy lines, mustachioed British airmen, numerous Nazi and German military (not the same thing ) a precious painting of a "Madonna with the Big Boobies" and various other unforgettable characters.
Nobody makes greater fun of the Brits than Brits.They will do French and the Germans too while they are at it.
I am going to tell you something I have never told before.
Listen to me carefully because I will say this only w-a-n-ce and you may have a hard time understanding.
I have an affinity for municipal politicians.
I respect people who put their name forward for elected office
Stick their heads above the crwod and invite dolly-molly shots. .
Being elected is a shared experience like no other.
We are not elected under a party banner
We are on our own. .
People identify with us. They put themselves in our shoes and imagine what it must be like. The expect no miracles.
They give us leeway.
But some behavior is not countenanced.
They will not excuse clear manifestation of dishonesty. Gratuitous spite.Arrogance.Public degradation of another
People always identify with the victim. .
Other than that, Councillors have a free run to make their own way.
A political reputation is ours to build. No-one else can contribute.
I recently heard. George St Kitts made scurrilous comments about myself. I neither know nor care what Mr. St Kitts thinks of me.
Apparently, a sufficiently negative reaction prompted removal of the comments from a web site, featuring the St Kitts Jazz Festival.also known as The Aurora Jazz Festival when it suits.
Councillor Able, acting on his authority as spokesperson for Aurorans, called upon front person for the Jazz Festival, Susan Morton Leonard, to account for the comments.
No matter the outcome, Councillor Able acted on his initiative, as a Councillor/.
What people make of it will be independently realised.
From such endeavor a reputations grows.
Or not.
It's a risk a Councillor takes.
I personally prefer risk to the alternative. .
It's a line of dialogue, in an exaggerated French accent, from a Brit-com on PBS.
It features Rene's Cafe in Nazi-occupied France during the war.
Renee is a bemused Frenchmen caught up in all manner of
predicaments involving a dreadful spouse,. lascivious waitresses,a mother-in-law, female French underground characters, downed behind enemy lines, mustachioed British airmen, numerous Nazi and German military (not the same thing ) a precious painting of a "Madonna with the Big Boobies" and various other unforgettable characters.
Nobody makes greater fun of the Brits than Brits.They will do French and the Germans too while they are at it.
I am going to tell you something I have never told before.
Listen to me carefully because I will say this only w-a-n-ce and you may have a hard time understanding.
I have an affinity for municipal politicians.
I respect people who put their name forward for elected office
Stick their heads above the crwod and invite dolly-molly shots. .
Being elected is a shared experience like no other.
We are not elected under a party banner
We are on our own. .
People identify with us. They put themselves in our shoes and imagine what it must be like. The expect no miracles.
They give us leeway.
But some behavior is not countenanced.
They will not excuse clear manifestation of dishonesty. Gratuitous spite.Arrogance.Public degradation of another
People always identify with the victim. .
Other than that, Councillors have a free run to make their own way.
A political reputation is ours to build. No-one else can contribute.
I recently heard. George St Kitts made scurrilous comments about myself. I neither know nor care what Mr. St Kitts thinks of me.
Apparently, a sufficiently negative reaction prompted removal of the comments from a web site, featuring the St Kitts Jazz Festival.also known as The Aurora Jazz Festival when it suits.
Councillor Able, acting on his authority as spokesperson for Aurorans, called upon front person for the Jazz Festival, Susan Morton Leonard, to account for the comments.
No matter the outcome, Councillor Able acted on his initiative, as a Councillor/.
What people make of it will be independently realised.
From such endeavor a reputations grows.
Or not.
It's a risk a Councillor takes.
I personally prefer risk to the alternative. .
I Don't Know
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "What's
The Fuss ?":
All through the day I me mine, I me mine, I me mine,
All through the night I me mine, I me mine, I me mine,
Now they're frightened of leaving it,
Everyone's weaving it,
Going on strong all the time,
All through the day I me mine.
I me me mine,
I me me mine,
I me me mine,
I me me mine.
All I can hear I me mine, I me mine, I me mine,
Even those tears I me mine, I me mine, I me mine,
No-one's frightened of playing it,
Everyone's saying it,
Flowing more freely than wine,
All through the day I me mine.
I me me mine,
I me me mine,
I me me mine,
I me me mine.
All I can hear I me mine, I me mine, I me mine,
Even those tears I me mine, I me mine, I me mine,
No-one's frightened of playing it,
Everyone's saying it,
Flowing more freely than wine,
All through your life I me mine.
George Harrison
***********
I read the post again to see how the song is relevant .I can't see it
But it is a song.
I think it serves to show how much more important is melody than the words of some songs.
All through the day I me mine, I me mine, I me mine,
All through the night I me mine, I me mine, I me mine,
Now they're frightened of leaving it,
Everyone's weaving it,
Going on strong all the time,
All through the day I me mine.
I me me mine,
I me me mine,
I me me mine,
I me me mine.
All I can hear I me mine, I me mine, I me mine,
Even those tears I me mine, I me mine, I me mine,
No-one's frightened of playing it,
Everyone's saying it,
Flowing more freely than wine,
All through the day I me mine.
I me me mine,
I me me mine,
I me me mine,
I me me mine.
All I can hear I me mine, I me mine, I me mine,
Even those tears I me mine, I me mine, I me mine,
No-one's frightened of playing it,
Everyone's saying it,
Flowing more freely than wine,
All through your life I me mine.
George Harrison
***********
I read the post again to see how the song is relevant .I can't see it
But it is a song.
I think it serves to show how much more important is melody than the words of some songs.
Copycat
LINK:
http://www.yorkregion.com/news/article/1374133--aurora-councillor-unhappy-with-publicity
Jun
13, 2012 - 7:45 PM
Aurora
councillor unhappy with publicity
John
Abel questions Aurora Jazz+ Festival organizers
Aurora
councillors hope they can finally put the acrimony surrounding the Aurora Jazz+
Festival behind them.
A heated April debate that left the festival on the hook for previously waived permit fees had an epilogue at Tuesday’s council meeting.
Councillor John Abel attached to the agenda a contentious e-mail response sent to him by Susan Morton-Leonard, chairperson of the Aurora Festival of the Arts, the jazz festival’s parent organization.
Mr. Abel e-mailed Ms Morton-Leonard May 19, seeking her response to what he saw as negative publicity in a publication called Ontario Festivals Visited, regarding council’s perceived lack of support.
“This article portrays the town and its council in a negative light,” he wrote, noting the festival advertised in the newsletter.
The article, entitled What Were They Thinking?, questioned why the town would “penalize” a non-profit community event.
Mr. Abel also described as “offensive, if not just plain vulgar”, two May 15 personal blog entries by festival artistic director George St. Kitts.
Other councillors wondered why Mr. Abel was re-opening old wounds.
“I was really hoping we’d be past this,” Councillor Chris Ballard said. “I don’t believe AFA was (trying) to besmirch the good name of the town.”
Councillor Wendy Gaertner wondered whether Ms Leonard-Morton had been made aware her e-mail response, which was CC’d to every member of council, would be on the public council agenda.
In her response, Ms Leonard-Morton wrote Mr. Abel’s e-mail was “structured more like accusations than queries.”
The Aurora Festival of the Arts has no interest in “smear campaigns”, or personal blogs, she said, explaining the writer had simply written his opinion based on an article he read.
She countered the town had not even offered congratulations for the festival’s recent recognition as a Top 100 festival in the province by Festival and Events Ontario.
“This is the second year the AFA board has endured an attitude of mean spiritedness from a handful of people,” she wrote. “Continual unsubstantiated comments in the press and elsewhere ... unfortunately serve to hurt the Town of Aurora more than they hurt the festival.”
Mr. Abel laid the blame for the problems on the reporter’s lack of research and said council has a proud tradition of supporting arts and culture.
“I’m proud of this council ... I’m not going to allow people to be unfair,” he said Tuesday night.
“I don’t want to respond to the bad things they’re saying about our town, but I feel I have to and I will.”
“The bottom line is, unless the comments are defamatory, it’s called freedom of speech,” Ms Gaertner said.
A heated April debate that left the festival on the hook for previously waived permit fees had an epilogue at Tuesday’s council meeting.
Councillor John Abel attached to the agenda a contentious e-mail response sent to him by Susan Morton-Leonard, chairperson of the Aurora Festival of the Arts, the jazz festival’s parent organization.
Mr. Abel e-mailed Ms Morton-Leonard May 19, seeking her response to what he saw as negative publicity in a publication called Ontario Festivals Visited, regarding council’s perceived lack of support.
“This article portrays the town and its council in a negative light,” he wrote, noting the festival advertised in the newsletter.
The article, entitled What Were They Thinking?, questioned why the town would “penalize” a non-profit community event.
Mr. Abel also described as “offensive, if not just plain vulgar”, two May 15 personal blog entries by festival artistic director George St. Kitts.
Other councillors wondered why Mr. Abel was re-opening old wounds.
“I was really hoping we’d be past this,” Councillor Chris Ballard said. “I don’t believe AFA was (trying) to besmirch the good name of the town.”
Councillor Wendy Gaertner wondered whether Ms Leonard-Morton had been made aware her e-mail response, which was CC’d to every member of council, would be on the public council agenda.
In her response, Ms Leonard-Morton wrote Mr. Abel’s e-mail was “structured more like accusations than queries.”
The Aurora Festival of the Arts has no interest in “smear campaigns”, or personal blogs, she said, explaining the writer had simply written his opinion based on an article he read.
She countered the town had not even offered congratulations for the festival’s recent recognition as a Top 100 festival in the province by Festival and Events Ontario.
“This is the second year the AFA board has endured an attitude of mean spiritedness from a handful of people,” she wrote. “Continual unsubstantiated comments in the press and elsewhere ... unfortunately serve to hurt the Town of Aurora more than they hurt the festival.”
Mr. Abel laid the blame for the problems on the reporter’s lack of research and said council has a proud tradition of supporting arts and culture.
“I’m proud of this council ... I’m not going to allow people to be unfair,” he said Tuesday night.
“I don’t want to respond to the bad things they’re saying about our town, but I feel I have to and I will.”
“The bottom line is, unless the comments are defamatory, it’s called freedom of speech,” Ms Gaertner said.
Sesquicentennial Rocks
On Tuesday, Council defeated the recommendation to spend $100.ks. t on a sesquicentennial celebration.
The money was earned interest from the hydro fund. Apparently, during some budget or other we created "Council's Discretionary Reserve Fund" .
On Tuesday someone said it is $3 million.That was corrected to $1.3 million.
This year's tax increase was over 4%.. The water rate increase was 6%.
$1.3 million would have wipe out that tax increase.
Council's pin money.
I still couln't have supported
Nothing could emphasize affluence more than such an amount set aside to spend on whatever takes Council's fancy.
The decision about the party was changed because people let Councillors know they didn't want money spent like thatand enough Councillors listened.
That was a very good thing.
It's the second issue that has been changed by Council listening to people.
It didn't have anything to do with a Communications department set up at great expense.
It had to do with Councillors being out and about, going where people are and listening to what they have to say.
We must take heart from it and recognise our own power.
There's a long way to go.
Meetings are becoming quite bizarre.
The Clerk has not been in his chair for several meetings.
The Director of Environment and Infrastructure has been engrossed in reading on his laptop for the last three meetings.Gone With The Wind maybe.
The Treasurer is inclined to mix in on Council's debate.
When the line is crossed into the political arena,certain holds are unbarred.
Citizens awards night, usually held at this time, had been re-scheduled until November, was recommended not to be held and picked up again next Spring.
The advice was rejected. Now there will have to be a scramble to organise the event..
It's another fifty year tradition. A night when Council recognises hundreds of people who make all kinds of good things happen in the community
.It's a cheerful, joyful occasion when the town hall is filled with children, flowers, balloons and smiling faces and all present feel good about the world we live in.
Tuesday night on the other hand was perplexing.
We invited people to a party and we didn't go.
There was a feeling of things coming apart at the seams.
Not torn apart with tons of hostility.
Just a gentle unraveling.
Coming undone
Nobody home. .
Nobody in charge.
Everybody at sixes and sevens.
I've never seen that before.
Wednesday, 13 June 2012
I Think You've Got IT...By Jove You've Got It
Tim the Enchanter said..
I know it sounds like I'm raining on the parade here but you'll forgive me if I'm not entirely confident that Aurora council can put together a megabuck project that isn't either a fiscal sinkhole or a plaything for Aurora's "we play,you pay" crowd rather than a thoughtfully considered, financially responsible addition that ALL Aurorans can look on with pride.
**********
Far from raining on a parade, you are doing exactly what I hope and expect from residents; I know there is excitement about "a thoughtfully considered,financially responsible addition that All Aurorans can look on with pride."
While we are planning, the fund is invested and earning interest.
The critical time limit is the term of office.
From the end of 2006 until the end of 2011, the fund earned $7 million dollars. We started with $24.million or thereabouts.
We have two and a half years to advance at least to the point of commitment to a project.
My resolution is already several weeks old and no sign of a plan to bring the community together.
It occurred to me today, because I am not a patient person, there is nothing to hinder an organisation forming to brain storm a plan. There could be more than one working to the same end.
The first part must be a collection of ideas.
A political body is not necessarily the best venue for imagination
and verve.
Bureacracy does have a dampening effect.
It's nobody's fault. It's just the nature of the beast.
Sometimes I feel like the hulk, turning all green and busting out of my shirt.
I feel strongly the project should be something other than a sports facility.
But some things not identified as a sport have a competitive edge.
We can always justify another soccer field, baseball diamond , ice surface or swimming facility..
We collect development charges to pay ninety per cent of the cost. But we are perfectly capable of screwing up planning for those things as well.And we have.
This is not a simple challenge.But if we can agree the project should be something we would never contemplate as a tax burden that narrows the selection.
A foundation might deal with costs of operating the facility to ensure everyone has access.
There's a ton of stuff to think about.
I don't profess expertise in these matters. I just have a sense this is an opportunity we need to grab else it will vanish..
It could be a turning point for the town.
Every step we take could be exciting.
I'm sure there are residents in Aurora with a contribution to make to a project that could be monumentally satisfying.
When we consider what Richmond Hill spent on their Performing Arts Centre, $33 million isn't enormous. But by Jove, we have never had it before and there are ways we can add to it if we have the will.
I'm not thinking about funds from other levels of government. But it is likely if the project were considered an economic stimulus it could very well qualify for grants. Even the construction would be considered job creation.
Government doesn't move things along. People do.
The community doesn't have to wait for staff to find time to devise a plan to bring people together..
The community can involve itself,
It can't happen too soon.
I know it sounds like I'm raining on the parade here but you'll forgive me if I'm not entirely confident that Aurora council can put together a megabuck project that isn't either a fiscal sinkhole or a plaything for Aurora's "we play,you pay" crowd rather than a thoughtfully considered, financially responsible addition that ALL Aurorans can look on with pride.
**********
Far from raining on a parade, you are doing exactly what I hope and expect from residents; I know there is excitement about "a thoughtfully considered,financially responsible addition that All Aurorans can look on with pride."
While we are planning, the fund is invested and earning interest.
The critical time limit is the term of office.
From the end of 2006 until the end of 2011, the fund earned $7 million dollars. We started with $24.million or thereabouts.
We have two and a half years to advance at least to the point of commitment to a project.
My resolution is already several weeks old and no sign of a plan to bring the community together.
It occurred to me today, because I am not a patient person, there is nothing to hinder an organisation forming to brain storm a plan. There could be more than one working to the same end.
The first part must be a collection of ideas.
A political body is not necessarily the best venue for imagination
and verve.
Bureacracy does have a dampening effect.
It's nobody's fault. It's just the nature of the beast.
Sometimes I feel like the hulk, turning all green and busting out of my shirt.
I feel strongly the project should be something other than a sports facility.
But some things not identified as a sport have a competitive edge.
We can always justify another soccer field, baseball diamond , ice surface or swimming facility..
We collect development charges to pay ninety per cent of the cost. But we are perfectly capable of screwing up planning for those things as well.And we have.
This is not a simple challenge.But if we can agree the project should be something we would never contemplate as a tax burden that narrows the selection.
A foundation might deal with costs of operating the facility to ensure everyone has access.
There's a ton of stuff to think about.
I don't profess expertise in these matters. I just have a sense this is an opportunity we need to grab else it will vanish..
It could be a turning point for the town.
Every step we take could be exciting.
I'm sure there are residents in Aurora with a contribution to make to a project that could be monumentally satisfying.
When we consider what Richmond Hill spent on their Performing Arts Centre, $33 million isn't enormous. But by Jove, we have never had it before and there are ways we can add to it if we have the will.
I'm not thinking about funds from other levels of government. But it is likely if the project were considered an economic stimulus it could very well qualify for grants. Even the construction would be considered job creation.
Government doesn't move things along. People do.
The community doesn't have to wait for staff to find time to devise a plan to bring people together..
The community can involve itself,
It can't happen too soon.
Everywhere You Look
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "What's
The Fuss ?":
10:15 AM
I thought that I was the morning snark..... must be more than 1 that disagrees with the claptrap here.
*****
Claptrap here
Claptrap there
Here a clap
There a clap
Everywhere a claptrap
Y'all recall the software program the town purchased for keeping track of infrastructure and assets.
It was late in the year. Just before the books closed .
It was included in actual spending for 2011.
It cost $440,000.
I argued and voted against it for several stated reasons.
A few weeks later, we had to approve an additional $38,000 for the hand held equipment necessary for workers in the field to relay information to the software at the town hall.
Staff explained the additional equipment needed for the system to function was overlooked at the time of the original purchase recommendation.Which itself was recommended to staff by a consultant.
This week, I discovered a way the equipment can be used to better inform council.
I spend much of my time at the computer. When my eyes need a rest I look up into my maple tree .
In the summer, if I'm not at the computer, I sit on my back deck
watching my garden grow.
Sometimes I sit and think and sometimes I just sit.
While I'm at it, I'm not paying a lot of attention to what is going down on in my street.
Seems a week or so ago my neighbor directly across the street had a water supply problem. The town was called. Problem was solved.
Another person on the street who pays a lot of attention to neighborhood affairs observed the situation.
To the untrained eye, it appeared there was an element of excess of manpower, vehicles and equipment utilized in the process ,one way or another.
I could offer no satisfactory explanation. I didn't even know it was happening.
As I listened however,I thought of the $440,000 software program
and its function.
Ordinarily, pre-software, a day at the works or parks department starts of with work orders for jobs to be done. They are assigned and crews dispatched to complete work and report back for new orders.
Now, with the hand held equipment and software program at the town hall, .work and parks crews are required to file details of their undertaking for the purpose of amassing records.
Simple work orders have gone the way of the dodo bird.
Amassing seems to be the operative word.
All information, is collected in the software program. For the purpose of keeping tabs on conditions of town infrastructure wherever it may be and whatever incident may impact upon it.
As I listened to my observant neighbor recount the account of the happening on this particular section of water ware infrastructure, it occurred to me, with the town's new software program, it should be a simple matter to determine all facts and figures and provide a satisfactory explanation to my tax conscious neighbor.
So last night, under the new business section of the Council agenda, I sought advice from the Mayor.
"Certainly" he responded. "Just provide the Director with the address ,I am sure he will provide the information"
I am about to do that now.
10:15 AM
I thought that I was the morning snark..... must be more than 1 that disagrees with the claptrap here.
*****
Claptrap here
Claptrap there
Here a clap
There a clap
Everywhere a claptrap
Y'all recall the software program the town purchased for keeping track of infrastructure and assets.
It was late in the year. Just before the books closed .
It was included in actual spending for 2011.
It cost $440,000.
I argued and voted against it for several stated reasons.
A few weeks later, we had to approve an additional $38,000 for the hand held equipment necessary for workers in the field to relay information to the software at the town hall.
Staff explained the additional equipment needed for the system to function was overlooked at the time of the original purchase recommendation.Which itself was recommended to staff by a consultant.
This week, I discovered a way the equipment can be used to better inform council.
I spend much of my time at the computer. When my eyes need a rest I look up into my maple tree .
In the summer, if I'm not at the computer, I sit on my back deck
watching my garden grow.
Sometimes I sit and think and sometimes I just sit.
While I'm at it, I'm not paying a lot of attention to what is going down on in my street.
Seems a week or so ago my neighbor directly across the street had a water supply problem. The town was called. Problem was solved.
Another person on the street who pays a lot of attention to neighborhood affairs observed the situation.
To the untrained eye, it appeared there was an element of excess of manpower, vehicles and equipment utilized in the process ,one way or another.
I could offer no satisfactory explanation. I didn't even know it was happening.
As I listened however,I thought of the $440,000 software program
and its function.
Ordinarily, pre-software, a day at the works or parks department starts of with work orders for jobs to be done. They are assigned and crews dispatched to complete work and report back for new orders.
Now, with the hand held equipment and software program at the town hall, .work and parks crews are required to file details of their undertaking for the purpose of amassing records.
Simple work orders have gone the way of the dodo bird.
Amassing seems to be the operative word.
All information, is collected in the software program. For the purpose of keeping tabs on conditions of town infrastructure wherever it may be and whatever incident may impact upon it.
As I listened to my observant neighbor recount the account of the happening on this particular section of water ware infrastructure, it occurred to me, with the town's new software program, it should be a simple matter to determine all facts and figures and provide a satisfactory explanation to my tax conscious neighbor.
So last night, under the new business section of the Council agenda, I sought advice from the Mayor.
"Certainly" he responded. "Just provide the Director with the address ,I am sure he will provide the information"
I am about to do that now.
Less Than Enchanting
As promised, we will talk about Tim's less than enchanting idea for the town to give the hydro money back to taxpayers .
When was the last time you received a cheque from the Town of Aurora.?
After a three year battle, and final acknowledgement that rates had been calculated to include water loss probably due to unmetered water used by public works and the parks department, did you get a rebate for previous years of overcharging?
No you did not.
What you got was an increase in water rates smaller than that forecast.
Not even a tip of the hat. Or anything else approaching an apology.
But you were paying attention .. You let Council know you expected a resolution. To their credit, they listened.
But you never received a rebate..
Now...let us contemplate how such a rebate might be calculated.
First there's the assessment roll.
Landlords, resident and absentee are the property owners.
Retail business. Institutional business. Industries manufacturing and servicing.
Some with head offices out of town . Others owner operated but still non-resident.
Smart Centres and State Farm Insurance.
Residential comes in different classes.
Apartments and Condos.
Estate lots pay as much or more in property tax than some people have income.
The Royal Canadian Legion are on the assessment roll but they don't pay taxes. We pay their taxes..
There's a bubble housing an indoor commercial soccer operation.
They don't pay taxes. We pay their taxes..
To divvy up thirty-three million dollar hydro asset fund to return to taxpayers would require a calculation based assessed value of the property.
The owner would receive the rebate.
The owner pays the taxes.
How would the infinitesimal rebate be distributed?
It wouldn't. It would show up as a credit on the tax bill which would undoubtedly be offset by the annual increase in the tax rate and recommended paid by deferred installments.
Would anyone expect the annual tax increase to be less because of a tax rebate?
Well Bless your Heart!! It's all too easy to fuddle-duddle with the figures .
Keeping it tied up in investments is good... on a short term basis.
But the further we get from the original intent, the easier it is to siphon it off.
Selling hydro was a hard decision to make.
Power Stream is making huge revenues for its owners who are the Towns of Markham and Vaughan.
Provincial requirements put that option out of reach for small utilities.like Aurora.
But if we had a facility that the greatest number of people could enjoy every day of our lives, which we would unable to contemplate as a tax burden, the decision to sell Hydro would become the right one.
Divying up the fund between all those legally entitled to receive a proportionate share would accomplish nothing.
The idea is not thoroughly thought through.
It has no merit.
It's simplistic.
Ridiculous.
Crazy.
Just plain nuts.
No credit to its author,
In my opinion.
As good as the best and better than the rest.
When was the last time you received a cheque from the Town of Aurora.?
After a three year battle, and final acknowledgement that rates had been calculated to include water loss probably due to unmetered water used by public works and the parks department, did you get a rebate for previous years of overcharging?
No you did not.
What you got was an increase in water rates smaller than that forecast.
Not even a tip of the hat. Or anything else approaching an apology.
But you were paying attention .. You let Council know you expected a resolution. To their credit, they listened.
But you never received a rebate..
Now...let us contemplate how such a rebate might be calculated.
First there's the assessment roll.
Landlords, resident and absentee are the property owners.
Retail business. Institutional business. Industries manufacturing and servicing.
Some with head offices out of town . Others owner operated but still non-resident.
Smart Centres and State Farm Insurance.
Residential comes in different classes.
Apartments and Condos.
Estate lots pay as much or more in property tax than some people have income.
The Royal Canadian Legion are on the assessment roll but they don't pay taxes. We pay their taxes..
There's a bubble housing an indoor commercial soccer operation.
They don't pay taxes. We pay their taxes..
To divvy up thirty-three million dollar hydro asset fund to return to taxpayers would require a calculation based assessed value of the property.
The owner would receive the rebate.
The owner pays the taxes.
How would the infinitesimal rebate be distributed?
It wouldn't. It would show up as a credit on the tax bill which would undoubtedly be offset by the annual increase in the tax rate and recommended paid by deferred installments.
Would anyone expect the annual tax increase to be less because of a tax rebate?
Well Bless your Heart!! It's all too easy to fuddle-duddle with the figures .
Keeping it tied up in investments is good... on a short term basis.
But the further we get from the original intent, the easier it is to siphon it off.
Selling hydro was a hard decision to make.
Power Stream is making huge revenues for its owners who are the Towns of Markham and Vaughan.
Provincial requirements put that option out of reach for small utilities.like Aurora.
But if we had a facility that the greatest number of people could enjoy every day of our lives, which we would unable to contemplate as a tax burden, the decision to sell Hydro would become the right one.
Divying up the fund between all those legally entitled to receive a proportionate share would accomplish nothing.
The idea is not thoroughly thought through.
It has no merit.
It's simplistic.
Ridiculous.
Crazy.
Just plain nuts.
No credit to its author,
In my opinion.
As good as the best and better than the rest.
Citizen Of The Year
Something very nice happened at the town hall last night. Spectator seating was full. A happy buzz of anticipation filled the place when I arrived. Steve Hinder was lurking in the corridor with one other as I made my way to the ramp at the back of the Council chamber.
The Award for Citizen of the Year was being presented.
The Mayor gave the speech outlining a lifetime of contribution to the community .It took a while.
Except for Brian North fillig a place in the front row, arms folded across massive chest, hands tucked under his arms, the usual sparkle in his eyes, few faces in the crowd were familiar.
The name of the Citizen is never released beforehand.
Only the selection committee knows.
Citizen of the Year 2012 was Brian North.
A cheer filled the room when his name was announced. People rose to their feet and clapped and clapped and went on clapping.
That happened several times after.
It was a moment it seemed no-one wanted to end.
Friends and colleagues, family members and cousins came to Aurora last night and filled the Council Chamber to join in the honor paid to a man they knew gave honor to the award.
It was a lovely,warm and memorable occasion.
Over all too soon.
A reception was provided in one of the meeting rooms behind the council chamber but without Council.
The Council meeting started.
The party went on without us.
The Award for Citizen of the Year was being presented.
The Mayor gave the speech outlining a lifetime of contribution to the community .It took a while.
Except for Brian North fillig a place in the front row, arms folded across massive chest, hands tucked under his arms, the usual sparkle in his eyes, few faces in the crowd were familiar.
The name of the Citizen is never released beforehand.
Only the selection committee knows.
Citizen of the Year 2012 was Brian North.
A cheer filled the room when his name was announced. People rose to their feet and clapped and clapped and went on clapping.
That happened several times after.
It was a moment it seemed no-one wanted to end.
Friends and colleagues, family members and cousins came to Aurora last night and filled the Council Chamber to join in the honor paid to a man they knew gave honor to the award.
It was a lovely,warm and memorable occasion.
Over all too soon.
A reception was provided in one of the meeting rooms behind the council chamber but without Council.
The Council meeting started.
The party went on without us.
Tuesday, 12 June 2012
What's The Fuss ?
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "Guess Who
!!!!":
"This comment would be from a municipal employee. Councillors have heard the argument.. It has no merit."
OH MY GOD..... You cannot be further from the truth. I wrote this (thank you for publishing). I am not a municipal employee - never have. I have worked full-time in the private sector since 1981. I am currently employed by a multi-national company headquartered in Europe.
My experiences over the last 30+ years is what I draw on here.
*******************
Here's the question; why would a person who does not wish to be identified, responds almost immediately to a post on municipal employment , claims authority on the subject, be horrified by the possibility of being identified as a municipal employee.
While I am pleased with the numbers of visitors to the blog. I don't think of it as having universal appeal.
I have to discount my positive numbers somewhat to account for those who can't stand what it represents but can't stay away.
I know the circle is small. So I think it's natural when you see something repeated. like the response above,to take a stab at the source.
I didn't say it was an Aurora municipal employee. I have no idea who it is. But an argument that doesn't make sense, no matter who makes it, still doesn't make sense.
Anyone without employment ,who gets an opportunity at contract employment with a municipality anywhere in the GTA would be a fool to pass it up.
If it's used as a stepping stone to a permanent job elsewhere, then good luck to them.
There are no negatives about municipal employment, contract or otherwise.
Well there were, but that's over now.
"This comment would be from a municipal employee. Councillors have heard the argument.. It has no merit."
OH MY GOD..... You cannot be further from the truth. I wrote this (thank you for publishing). I am not a municipal employee - never have. I have worked full-time in the private sector since 1981. I am currently employed by a multi-national company headquartered in Europe.
My experiences over the last 30+ years is what I draw on here.
*******************
Here's the question; why would a person who does not wish to be identified, responds almost immediately to a post on municipal employment , claims authority on the subject, be horrified by the possibility of being identified as a municipal employee.
While I am pleased with the numbers of visitors to the blog. I don't think of it as having universal appeal.
I have to discount my positive numbers somewhat to account for those who can't stand what it represents but can't stay away.
I know the circle is small. So I think it's natural when you see something repeated. like the response above,to take a stab at the source.
I didn't say it was an Aurora municipal employee. I have no idea who it is. But an argument that doesn't make sense, no matter who makes it, still doesn't make sense.
Anyone without employment ,who gets an opportunity at contract employment with a municipality anywhere in the GTA would be a fool to pass it up.
If it's used as a stepping stone to a permanent job elsewhere, then good luck to them.
There are no negatives about municipal employment, contract or otherwise.
Well there were, but that's over now.
Guess Who !!!!
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "A Pot Of
Gold":
I don't think Tim's idea to re-distribute the fund is crazy at all. Who's money is it in the first place?
When the Town Hall was built, growth was forseen but has that growth been the reason for the space issues? Things change in the way business is conducted. When the Town Hall was created, was there a computer on everyone's desk? I don't think that you can attribute the growth of the Town to the increase of space usage at Town Hall.
I also think that splitting Town employess across multiple locations (as you infer with the old Hydro building) would not be the best solution either. I can tell you first hand that there are breakdowns in efficiencies when you have multiple locations.
I would wager that the employees that are currently dealing with "growth" will not be going anywhere when we reach the limit of growth. That is a hard pill to swallow. If you are telling those people right now that they are in a temporary full time position, I would not be surprised that they would start looking for something instead of the uncertain position they currently enjoy.
******************
This comment would be from a municipal employee. Councillors have heard the argument.. It has no merit.
A person with a secure job, would not likely apply for a contract position.Unless they had a friend in court.
A person without employment would likely apply.
Contract employment is better than none.
A contract employee who acquits well has an edge should a future opportunity arise.
If not, they have gained useful experience and a reference to stand them well in future applications.
If my correspondent is a contract employee of the town my advice would be to stop feeling sorry for yourself. You are better off than many.
Upward mobility is every person's right.
All employees are hired on probation. It allows for evaluation of work habits before granting the protection of full time status.
Employee benefits are a significat part of the cost of municipal service.
We have an example of an employee fulfilling two functions in different locations. I can\'t believe it is efficient.
It has nothing to do with contract status.
A person in charge of maintenance of a facility has a completely different function in another location.
It came about as a result of re-organisation.recommended by a consultant and adopted by the last Council.
I will not be persuaded the purpose was anything but political
machination.
My grand-daughter thinks Ispend too much time responding to comments and it has changed the character of the blog.
She may be right.
Part of my purpose is to create a picture of the political dynamcs of a small town. It is a world unto itself.
And to encourage anyone who may be interested, the job is worthwhile. .
I don't think Tim's idea to re-distribute the fund is crazy at all. Who's money is it in the first place?
When the Town Hall was built, growth was forseen but has that growth been the reason for the space issues? Things change in the way business is conducted. When the Town Hall was created, was there a computer on everyone's desk? I don't think that you can attribute the growth of the Town to the increase of space usage at Town Hall.
I also think that splitting Town employess across multiple locations (as you infer with the old Hydro building) would not be the best solution either. I can tell you first hand that there are breakdowns in efficiencies when you have multiple locations.
I would wager that the employees that are currently dealing with "growth" will not be going anywhere when we reach the limit of growth. That is a hard pill to swallow. If you are telling those people right now that they are in a temporary full time position, I would not be surprised that they would start looking for something instead of the uncertain position they currently enjoy.
******************
This comment would be from a municipal employee. Councillors have heard the argument.. It has no merit.
A person with a secure job, would not likely apply for a contract position.Unless they had a friend in court.
A person without employment would likely apply.
Contract employment is better than none.
A contract employee who acquits well has an edge should a future opportunity arise.
If not, they have gained useful experience and a reference to stand them well in future applications.
If my correspondent is a contract employee of the town my advice would be to stop feeling sorry for yourself. You are better off than many.
Upward mobility is every person's right.
All employees are hired on probation. It allows for evaluation of work habits before granting the protection of full time status.
Employee benefits are a significat part of the cost of municipal service.
We have an example of an employee fulfilling two functions in different locations. I can\'t believe it is efficient.
It has nothing to do with contract status.
A person in charge of maintenance of a facility has a completely different function in another location.
It came about as a result of re-organisation.recommended by a consultant and adopted by the last Council.
I will not be persuaded the purpose was anything but political
machination.
My grand-daughter thinks Ispend too much time responding to comments and it has changed the character of the blog.
She may be right.
Part of my purpose is to create a picture of the political dynamcs of a small town. It is a world unto itself.
And to encourage anyone who may be interested, the job is worthwhile. .
Hot off
My computer would not accede to my commands yesterday.
I wrote the post below on office writer.
All my posts would be improved by a hold overnight and morning re-write.
But something else always comes up I need to tell you.
A pattern has speed- ed up that has been developing for several years.To the point of acceptability.
When the town started giving away huge chunks of money to groups without accountability was when it started.
The Arboretum invited Council members to meet with them individually to explain their program and answer any questions they might have Councillors did and the funds were granted. .
The next outfit to use the technique was the Corporate Board of Church Street School.
2012 was the second budget struck by this Council. The Board
received even more public funding this year than last. A hundred thousand dollars of program revenues and "donations" was theirs to spend as well.
During a recent meeting on budget-making ,the town treasurer related the practice of Barrie Council and how they expedite their budget process.
Councillors meet individually or in pairs so that it can't be construed as a meeting, with staff and have all questions asked, answered and a thorough understanding gained of why they should approve the budget as presented.
Then they approve the budget in a single day..
Wham Bang Thank you Ma'am.
Councillors recently received an invitation from President of the Historical Society to meet privately with executive members to discuss a project they have in mind that has some sensitivity.It's a real estate deal.
This morning, a new invitation was received from the Aurora Tennis Club for a private, individual discussion about a proposed initiative..
I have accepted none of the invitations.Others have.
I consider the process inappropriate
But the one that concerns most is the one from staff. There has been an open invitation to members of Council since the day the term began.
It reminds me of an old nursery rhyme.
"Will you walk into my parlor "said the spider to the fly.
"It's the cutest,sweetest little pa-a-a-rlor that ever you did spy".
"Not today thanks, Mr. Long Shanks.
I have other fish to fry "
I understand a number of innocent colleagues may be spending a great deal of time cosseted in various parlors within the town hall and out, being assisted in their decision- making having little understanding of the purpose of the exercise.
No-one more so than the Mayor himself.
All of it, out of sight and sound of the people entitled to hear the questions asked and answers given.
And thus, Councillors are duly prepped in private, to understand completely and agree with staff recommendations. No harm intended I'm sure . Nothing more than a neatening and tidying of the process.
At the same time, legal requirement for public business to be done publicly is entirely circumvented.
However messy and untidy that process may be.
Oh Look Ma!! No hands.
I wrote the post below on office writer.
All my posts would be improved by a hold overnight and morning re-write.
But something else always comes up I need to tell you.
A pattern has speed- ed up that has been developing for several years.To the point of acceptability.
When the town started giving away huge chunks of money to groups without accountability was when it started.
The Arboretum invited Council members to meet with them individually to explain their program and answer any questions they might have Councillors did and the funds were granted. .
The next outfit to use the technique was the Corporate Board of Church Street School.
2012 was the second budget struck by this Council. The Board
received even more public funding this year than last. A hundred thousand dollars of program revenues and "donations" was theirs to spend as well.
During a recent meeting on budget-making ,the town treasurer related the practice of Barrie Council and how they expedite their budget process.
Councillors meet individually or in pairs so that it can't be construed as a meeting, with staff and have all questions asked, answered and a thorough understanding gained of why they should approve the budget as presented.
Then they approve the budget in a single day..
Wham Bang Thank you Ma'am.
Councillors recently received an invitation from President of the Historical Society to meet privately with executive members to discuss a project they have in mind that has some sensitivity.It's a real estate deal.
This morning, a new invitation was received from the Aurora Tennis Club for a private, individual discussion about a proposed initiative..
I have accepted none of the invitations.Others have.
I consider the process inappropriate
But the one that concerns most is the one from staff. There has been an open invitation to members of Council since the day the term began.
It reminds me of an old nursery rhyme.
"Will you walk into my parlor "said the spider to the fly.
"It's the cutest,sweetest little pa-a-a-rlor that ever you did spy".
"Not today thanks, Mr. Long Shanks.
I have other fish to fry "
I understand a number of innocent colleagues may be spending a great deal of time cosseted in various parlors within the town hall and out, being assisted in their decision- making having little understanding of the purpose of the exercise.
No-one more so than the Mayor himself.
All of it, out of sight and sound of the people entitled to hear the questions asked and answers given.
And thus, Councillors are duly prepped in private, to understand completely and agree with staff recommendations. No harm intended I'm sure . Nothing more than a neatening and tidying of the process.
At the same time, legal requirement for public business to be done publicly is entirely circumvented.
However messy and untidy that process may be.
Oh Look Ma!! No hands.
A Pot Of Gold
Tim the Enchanter's idea for use of the
Hydro Sale Asset Fund is actually the second proposal received.
First dibs came from the Chief
Financial Officer during budget discussions.
Borrowing twenty million of the fund was proposed. The fund is now named s Council's Discretionary
Reserve .. I'm not sure of the reason for the change.
Twenty million dollars is proposed to
be spent on re-design of the barely twenty year old town hall..Changes are to accommodate among
other things, the Customer Service Plan introduced that itself cost a bundle with no evidence of customer dis-satisfaction.
There's apparently not enough space to accommodate staff and paraphernalia we have now .
We leased the Hydro building to the
Department of National Defense. We were using it for storage of
archives .I daresay it all had to be brought back to the town hall
when we vacated to accommodate ten year lease of the Hydro building .
The parks department were making good
use of the facility at the time. They had to be turfed.as well.
Remember, the lease had to be kept
confidential because of National Security. I understand there is no termination clause which I do not believe is legal in municipal law.
DND have apparently made alterations to our building but Council hasn't been informed about that. It probably has to do with the nation's security.
You may remember a consultant's
statement I related. At our first meeting,the woman opened her remarks with the incredible pronouncmenmnt the almost new town hall had been built without contemplating future needs .
A remark like that only carries weight when
the people at the table know nothing. They expect people paid big dollars to advise will advise. ..
God Bless them, they don't even know what they don't
know. Naturally they feel safer with advice from professionals rather than the lone politician familiar with history and
process.
My input. is not exactly dismissed.
Some wait for enlightenment like a bolt from the heavens to determine the truth.
The next step of the plan was a
recommendation to BORROW twenty million dollars from the Hydro
Asset Sale Reserve fund
I can't stop them I
have one vote.But actually that decision was not made.
If I tell you then you can tell them what you think of the plan.You have that right.
When the town hall was built,
growth was certainly foreseen. The town's boundaries have not changed. Substantial parcels have been removed from development potential.
The town turned down an offer from the Region of
increased servicing allocation which would have allowed for higher population.
We are within fourteen thousand people of
total build-out.
We have staff
occupied completely with the business of growth.
When growth is complete , there will be
staff redundancy..
That was foreseen when the decision was made to accommodated present needs with contract personnel. . This year, we changed two contracts to full time complement. and finagled another one.
No real reason wasoffered for the change in direction
.Like they never understood the direction in the first place.
No real reason wasoffered for the change in direction
.Like they never understood the direction in the first place.
To-morrow I will discuss Tim The Enchanter's idea of distributing the hydro asset fund amongst the taxpayers.And why that's a crazy idea.
Sunday, 10 June 2012
Facts Are Irrefutable
Tim the Enchanter has left a new comment on your post "What
In Blazes?????":
In the interests of fair debate I'll cop to the facetious nature of some of my comment but my underlying point remains the same.
Yes - council ultimately approves a $79M budget but the vast majority of the work is done by staff. Of course there must be debate regarding adding here, trimming there, which is mostly an excercise designed to keep tax increases reasonable. It's not as if council is given $79M and must decide how to spend it.
Richmond Hill spend a barrel of money on the performing arts centre. I've been in it - it's very nice. Didn't realize it cost upwards of $100M but if that's the case such an ediface, albeit smaller, would be difficlt to accomplish with $33M in Aurora.
Perhaps you would agree Councillor Buck, that rightly or wrongly council's reputation for fiscal prudence has been tarnished by special interest spending of the past. Traffic calming for a "special" neighbourhood. Law suits - for which as far as I know the taxpayers have yet to be reimbursed. A very wobbly deal for the Culture centre which has yet to be rectified. An expensive Promenade Study about which nary a word has been heard since last term.
How much council time has been spent discussing the Petch House?
These are all nagging issues that involve 10's of thousands or 100's of thousands of dollars and while yes it is true they are not by and large the fault of current council - they still persist.
Yet we are to expect your group can successfully parlay a $33M windfall into Aurora's Golden Legacy?
I'm sorry but I don't think so.
Yes, other towns and cities have had their "Taj Mahal" moments as well as their spending "clunkers" but frankly I don't care about other cities because I pay taxes here and a share of that $33M is mine.
Having an annual budget laid out for you is not the same as having $33M to spend. Many parents pay for a college education could easily cost over $50,000 (in Canada) yet which responsible parent would ever give their child a cheque for %50K and say "go get a college education"? Typically, big budget expenditures are handled by the Region. Nothing in recent history serves to suggest this council can handle it.
I would rather just have the money back but failing that I wouldn't be entirely opposed to having 2 or 3 proposals put together by professionals under supervision of our town staff and have them presented as a referendum as long as None of the Above is one of the options. Winner must be by clear '50 plus 1' majority of ELIGIBLE voters - meaning if no-one bothers to vote forget the whole thing. There's no way that kind of money can end up serving the wishes of special interests. Council can solicit ideas and oversee the process.
Someone will point out "why have a referendum - we elect council to make those decisions?"
Why?
Because this isn't an annual $33M windfall that we get top spend on "something nice" that's why.
This is a one-time, one-shot deal.
When this money is gone - it's gone.
I'm sure you'll disagree but that's OK by me
***************
It's not possible to disagree with facts. So I won't.
I will point out though the resolution approved by Council was to determine how to replace the asset that was Aurora Hydro with another of equal benefit that could never be contemplated
as a tax burden..
The community is to have input. The decision will be Council's .
As it always must be. But it will be taken after the community has been heard.
You have been heard. But only on the blog.
The resolution received unanimous support from Council and favorable response from the community.
I could almost hear the sigh. At last, something positive to think about.
Time goes by and no response has been heard from administration.
Several other resolutions adopted by Council many months ago are still pending with no progress reported.
I note also the electorate gave firm thumbs down on the pandering practices of the past I believe discontinuance was the message.
I believe the current Council, particularly the Mayor, has not yet understood that.
It's natural for The Man Who Would Be King to imagine he has been elected on his merits.
Not so natural, when merits have not been proven .
I regret to say, I do not share your confidence that handing over $33 million to the administration to administer would result in the benefit you describe.
Many of the clunkers you list in your comment were recommended by the current administration..
One of the problems with the current Council is the level of collective inexperience and eagerness to be guided holus-bolus by the same administration.
Once the election was over, it seemed the correct action had been taken . It was the biggy. But it wasn't finished.
People need to keep reminding the newbies why they were elected and what is expected.
Maybe they are. You do your part on the blog I just don't know if I'm the only one getting it.and I'm not the one who needs it.
Have a great day.
In the interests of fair debate I'll cop to the facetious nature of some of my comment but my underlying point remains the same.
Yes - council ultimately approves a $79M budget but the vast majority of the work is done by staff. Of course there must be debate regarding adding here, trimming there, which is mostly an excercise designed to keep tax increases reasonable. It's not as if council is given $79M and must decide how to spend it.
Richmond Hill spend a barrel of money on the performing arts centre. I've been in it - it's very nice. Didn't realize it cost upwards of $100M but if that's the case such an ediface, albeit smaller, would be difficlt to accomplish with $33M in Aurora.
Perhaps you would agree Councillor Buck, that rightly or wrongly council's reputation for fiscal prudence has been tarnished by special interest spending of the past. Traffic calming for a "special" neighbourhood. Law suits - for which as far as I know the taxpayers have yet to be reimbursed. A very wobbly deal for the Culture centre which has yet to be rectified. An expensive Promenade Study about which nary a word has been heard since last term.
How much council time has been spent discussing the Petch House?
These are all nagging issues that involve 10's of thousands or 100's of thousands of dollars and while yes it is true they are not by and large the fault of current council - they still persist.
Yet we are to expect your group can successfully parlay a $33M windfall into Aurora's Golden Legacy?
I'm sorry but I don't think so.
Yes, other towns and cities have had their "Taj Mahal" moments as well as their spending "clunkers" but frankly I don't care about other cities because I pay taxes here and a share of that $33M is mine.
Having an annual budget laid out for you is not the same as having $33M to spend. Many parents pay for a college education could easily cost over $50,000 (in Canada) yet which responsible parent would ever give their child a cheque for %50K and say "go get a college education"? Typically, big budget expenditures are handled by the Region. Nothing in recent history serves to suggest this council can handle it.
I would rather just have the money back but failing that I wouldn't be entirely opposed to having 2 or 3 proposals put together by professionals under supervision of our town staff and have them presented as a referendum as long as None of the Above is one of the options. Winner must be by clear '50 plus 1' majority of ELIGIBLE voters - meaning if no-one bothers to vote forget the whole thing. There's no way that kind of money can end up serving the wishes of special interests. Council can solicit ideas and oversee the process.
Someone will point out "why have a referendum - we elect council to make those decisions?"
Why?
Because this isn't an annual $33M windfall that we get top spend on "something nice" that's why.
This is a one-time, one-shot deal.
When this money is gone - it's gone.
I'm sure you'll disagree but that's OK by me
***************
It's not possible to disagree with facts. So I won't.
I will point out though the resolution approved by Council was to determine how to replace the asset that was Aurora Hydro with another of equal benefit that could never be contemplated
as a tax burden..
The community is to have input. The decision will be Council's .
As it always must be. But it will be taken after the community has been heard.
You have been heard. But only on the blog.
The resolution received unanimous support from Council and favorable response from the community.
I could almost hear the sigh. At last, something positive to think about.
Time goes by and no response has been heard from administration.
Several other resolutions adopted by Council many months ago are still pending with no progress reported.
I note also the electorate gave firm thumbs down on the pandering practices of the past I believe discontinuance was the message.
I believe the current Council, particularly the Mayor, has not yet understood that.
It's natural for The Man Who Would Be King to imagine he has been elected on his merits.
Not so natural, when merits have not been proven .
I regret to say, I do not share your confidence that handing over $33 million to the administration to administer would result in the benefit you describe.
Many of the clunkers you list in your comment were recommended by the current administration..
One of the problems with the current Council is the level of collective inexperience and eagerness to be guided holus-bolus by the same administration.
Once the election was over, it seemed the correct action had been taken . It was the biggy. But it wasn't finished.
People need to keep reminding the newbies why they were elected and what is expected.
Maybe they are. You do your part on the blog I just don't know if I'm the only one getting it.and I'm not the one who needs it.
Have a great day.
Saturday, 9 June 2012
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "Order By
Rule":
Let me introduce an unthinkable idea. What if the Party could actually generate revenue? Or maybe even pay towards itself? Just an early thought but I can see the service clubs working together. The Market could put on something special for the occasion. Others will have better ideas than I, but we should think positively rather than negatively. It could be good for Aurora, not just a sucking sound that produces zip.
***********
It is not an unthinkable idea. It is how the July1st celebration came to be .
Every club and organization was involved. Revenue was pooled , the bills were paid with enough left over for start-up the following year .
The parade was the biggest cost.
The beer garden was the biggest revenue maker.
Service clubs took turns operating the beer garden.
It was hard, sweating labour. Some clubs were smaller than others. And younger.
Only in the first year did the town provide seed money which was repaid.
The program was fantastic. All organised by volunteers.
We had a town administration of half a dozen people. .
But the planning and organisation took twelve months. People get tired. Service clubs have their own mission.
Volunteers became harder to recruit.
It was more like conscription.
Twelve months go past in a flash and the monumental task was always at hand once again.
At one time I suggested we should do it once every five years and come back at it with fresh enthusiasm
But nobody wanted to give it up.
In the end, Dorothy Wardle and Collen Gowan, deputy treasurer and deputy clerk respectively, had been carrying much of the load.
then it was Dorothy.
Finally in later years, the Leisure Services Department reported no-one could be found to organise the parade.
It had been a lack-lustre affair for a couple of years.
Events in the parks for the children had become popular and fewer lined the streets to watch the parade.
I think a sesquicentennial could give new life to the July 1st Celebration.
I think Aurora knows how to celebrate without filching hundreds of thousands of dollars from the hydro reserve fund.
Let me introduce an unthinkable idea. What if the Party could actually generate revenue? Or maybe even pay towards itself? Just an early thought but I can see the service clubs working together. The Market could put on something special for the occasion. Others will have better ideas than I, but we should think positively rather than negatively. It could be good for Aurora, not just a sucking sound that produces zip.
***********
It is not an unthinkable idea. It is how the July1st celebration came to be .
Every club and organization was involved. Revenue was pooled , the bills were paid with enough left over for start-up the following year .
The parade was the biggest cost.
The beer garden was the biggest revenue maker.
Service clubs took turns operating the beer garden.
It was hard, sweating labour. Some clubs were smaller than others. And younger.
Only in the first year did the town provide seed money which was repaid.
The program was fantastic. All organised by volunteers.
We had a town administration of half a dozen people. .
But the planning and organisation took twelve months. People get tired. Service clubs have their own mission.
Volunteers became harder to recruit.
It was more like conscription.
Twelve months go past in a flash and the monumental task was always at hand once again.
At one time I suggested we should do it once every five years and come back at it with fresh enthusiasm
But nobody wanted to give it up.
In the end, Dorothy Wardle and Collen Gowan, deputy treasurer and deputy clerk respectively, had been carrying much of the load.
then it was Dorothy.
Finally in later years, the Leisure Services Department reported no-one could be found to organise the parade.
It had been a lack-lustre affair for a couple of years.
Events in the parks for the children had become popular and fewer lined the streets to watch the parade.
I think a sesquicentennial could give new life to the July 1st Celebration.
I think Aurora knows how to celebrate without filching hundreds of thousands of dollars from the hydro reserve fund.
What In Blazes?????
Tim the Enchanter has left a new comment on your post "Order By
Rule":
I think we need to look beyond the petty rules-of-order squabbling and see the bigger issue.
There is no chance in Hades that this council will ever be able to judisciously dispense $33M.
I'm convinced this council is better than the last and is fairly well populated with well-meaning citizens but let's be honest - responsibility for this kind of money is over their pay grade.
************
If I choose to write a post about consequences if the rules are misunderstood, abused or not applied in the manner intended or how I came to use the disrespectful term SHUT UP to another Councillor I will do so.
The rules are not petty. It's how nine people manage to bring strongly held points of view together and bring about a majority vote in a civilized fashion.
The majority vote doesn't have to be right
It just has to be a majority
Right or wrong, we all share the consequences which is usually taxes well beyond what they should be.
Therein lies the only equity.
Which brings me to the second point of Tim's not so enchanting point of view.
"Responsibility for this kind of money is beyond their pay grade."
Everything we do as a Council is beyond our pay grade.
Since when has it been suggested politicians should be paid for what they do.
The Premier of Ontario is paid less than a GTA police chief. or a hospital administrator, for God's sake or maybe even a Regional chairman.
We have a chairman, a police chief and four hospital administrators in York Region alone.
The last hospital administrator had an expense allowance higher than the Premier's salary.
Who pays attention to those comparators?
Where's the logic.
The Town of Aurora struck a budget of $79 million this year. Who is accountable? Council? The Administration?
When did the electorate vote for the administration?
By the way, I don't know one who lives in Aurora or pays our taxes.
Maybe Tim is really Dan the Man, in charge of town finances.
Richmond Hill sold their hydro before we did. They realized less than two hundred million and more than one hundred.
They built a Performing Arts Centre with almost a hundred million.
They made a huge contribution to their hospital.A hundred thousand maybe. I think they still have some left.
Not a whisper of discontent drifted up the Hill to Aurora.
Never have I heard it said that Richmond Hill Councillors walk on water.
But they are paid substantially more than Aurora Councillors They have wards. Responsibility is divied up amongst them.Does being paid more mean they are worth more?
They have a Councillor who thought it was O.K. to buy a set of golf clubs with his EXPENSE ALLOWANCE. His argument ?Cheaper to buy than rent when he had to go and play in all those pesky charity golf tournaments.
Next post I will argue Tim the Enchanter's strange enchantment with the competence of the administration versus the right of a taxpayer to say!!!!!!
WTF. I'm not effing well buying that argument .
Or words similar meaning the same.
I think we need to look beyond the petty rules-of-order squabbling and see the bigger issue.
There is no chance in Hades that this council will ever be able to judisciously dispense $33M.
I'm convinced this council is better than the last and is fairly well populated with well-meaning citizens but let's be honest - responsibility for this kind of money is over their pay grade.
************
If I choose to write a post about consequences if the rules are misunderstood, abused or not applied in the manner intended or how I came to use the disrespectful term SHUT UP to another Councillor I will do so.
The rules are not petty. It's how nine people manage to bring strongly held points of view together and bring about a majority vote in a civilized fashion.
The majority vote doesn't have to be right
It just has to be a majority
Right or wrong, we all share the consequences which is usually taxes well beyond what they should be.
Therein lies the only equity.
Which brings me to the second point of Tim's not so enchanting point of view.
"Responsibility for this kind of money is beyond their pay grade."
Everything we do as a Council is beyond our pay grade.
Since when has it been suggested politicians should be paid for what they do.
The Premier of Ontario is paid less than a GTA police chief. or a hospital administrator, for God's sake or maybe even a Regional chairman.
We have a chairman, a police chief and four hospital administrators in York Region alone.
The last hospital administrator had an expense allowance higher than the Premier's salary.
Who pays attention to those comparators?
Where's the logic.
The Town of Aurora struck a budget of $79 million this year. Who is accountable? Council? The Administration?
When did the electorate vote for the administration?
By the way, I don't know one who lives in Aurora or pays our taxes.
Maybe Tim is really Dan the Man, in charge of town finances.
Richmond Hill sold their hydro before we did. They realized less than two hundred million and more than one hundred.
They built a Performing Arts Centre with almost a hundred million.
They made a huge contribution to their hospital.A hundred thousand maybe. I think they still have some left.
Not a whisper of discontent drifted up the Hill to Aurora.
Never have I heard it said that Richmond Hill Councillors walk on water.
But they are paid substantially more than Aurora Councillors They have wards. Responsibility is divied up amongst them.Does being paid more mean they are worth more?
They have a Councillor who thought it was O.K. to buy a set of golf clubs with his EXPENSE ALLOWANCE. His argument ?Cheaper to buy than rent when he had to go and play in all those pesky charity golf tournaments.
Next post I will argue Tim the Enchanter's strange enchantment with the competence of the administration versus the right of a taxpayer to say!!!!!!
WTF. I'm not effing well buying that argument .
Or words similar meaning the same.
Rambling Remarks
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "Order By
Rule":
I don't know, Councillor Buck, sometimes I find you talk way too much on some matters and the point is lost in your ramblings. I find your opinion worth listening to, but many times the subject is 'Lost in Translation" as you lose your focus. This blog is no different. Who is your anger towards, our Mayor, or Councillor Pirri? Or the chair of the meeting? Or being interrupted? All of the above?
*********
I'm glad you find my opinions worthwhile.. I couldn't ask for more. I'm sorry you find my ramblings hard to follow.
Sometimes I just let my mind take me where it will. This reminds me of that, so in it goes. I hope you will continue to bear with my
ramblings. I could do more editing . Then there wouldn't be timeleft for writing.
Much of my day is occupied with the blog and responding to questions and phone calls.
I probably do more of that than others. I'm glad to have the time.
Other Councillors do more of other things like being where they can meet people, make themselves known and hearing what people have to say.
Six hundred people pop in daily to see what I'm talking about.
I'm not angry at anyone. The Mayor and Councillor Pirri have the same right to state their views. I could not exercise my right as strongly, some might say ferociously, without according the same right and responsibility to each and every member of Council.
Sometimes I provoke them to say what they are thinking .. It takes a lot of practice to do what I do. I can safely say, I'm way ahead in practice than the others.
I don't provoke them deliberately.I only think about what I"m going to say next. Not what they might say in response.
But I don't think that's a bad thing.
Councillor Pirri is earnest and wants to do the best job possible. I think he feels more sure of himself with the rules of order than anything else.
Trouble is, the rules are not just a bunch of words on paper.They don't work that simply.
There aren't that many of them. I find myself reciting them verbatim.
My thoughts are not pre-written,You can't pre-write what you might say in a debate. Part must be in response to points made by others.. One can't know beforehand.
I've gathered my thoughts, I'm ready to go when recognized by the chair. Expressing thoughts in sequel without interruption becomes critical to the presentation.
The rules read;" when recognized by the chair, the member having the floor will be allowed to speak without interruption"
Those words recognise the need.
There are members who interrupt on a regular basis because they don't agree with what a Councillor is saying.
Councillor Gaertner does it regularly. It was allowed in the last couple of Councils.
The chair is key. There must be consistency and a firm grasp of the rules. It's how a new Councillor learns the practice.
Council meetings are not always tidy. The stronger the opinions, the less tidy the meeting is likely to be.
The last post was erratic and seemingly without direction.
It wasn't though.
I often have to read something twice to make sense of it.
I don't know, Councillor Buck, sometimes I find you talk way too much on some matters and the point is lost in your ramblings. I find your opinion worth listening to, but many times the subject is 'Lost in Translation" as you lose your focus. This blog is no different. Who is your anger towards, our Mayor, or Councillor Pirri? Or the chair of the meeting? Or being interrupted? All of the above?
*********
I'm glad you find my opinions worthwhile.. I couldn't ask for more. I'm sorry you find my ramblings hard to follow.
Sometimes I just let my mind take me where it will. This reminds me of that, so in it goes. I hope you will continue to bear with my
ramblings. I could do more editing . Then there wouldn't be timeleft for writing.
Much of my day is occupied with the blog and responding to questions and phone calls.
I probably do more of that than others. I'm glad to have the time.
Other Councillors do more of other things like being where they can meet people, make themselves known and hearing what people have to say.
Six hundred people pop in daily to see what I'm talking about.
I'm not angry at anyone. The Mayor and Councillor Pirri have the same right to state their views. I could not exercise my right as strongly, some might say ferociously, without according the same right and responsibility to each and every member of Council.
Sometimes I provoke them to say what they are thinking .. It takes a lot of practice to do what I do. I can safely say, I'm way ahead in practice than the others.
I don't provoke them deliberately.I only think about what I"m going to say next. Not what they might say in response.
But I don't think that's a bad thing.
Councillor Pirri is earnest and wants to do the best job possible. I think he feels more sure of himself with the rules of order than anything else.
Trouble is, the rules are not just a bunch of words on paper.They don't work that simply.
There aren't that many of them. I find myself reciting them verbatim.
My thoughts are not pre-written,You can't pre-write what you might say in a debate. Part must be in response to points made by others.. One can't know beforehand.
I've gathered my thoughts, I'm ready to go when recognized by the chair. Expressing thoughts in sequel without interruption becomes critical to the presentation.
The rules read;" when recognized by the chair, the member having the floor will be allowed to speak without interruption"
Those words recognise the need.
There are members who interrupt on a regular basis because they don't agree with what a Councillor is saying.
Councillor Gaertner does it regularly. It was allowed in the last couple of Councils.
The chair is key. There must be consistency and a firm grasp of the rules. It's how a new Councillor learns the practice.
Council meetings are not always tidy. The stronger the opinions, the less tidy the meeting is likely to be.
The last post was erratic and seemingly without direction.
It wasn't though.
I often have to read something twice to make sense of it.
Friday, 8 June 2012
Order By Rule
Jeremy Grimaldi, the Aurora Banner reporter called this morning. He had been watching a video of the committee meeting on Tuesday night and heard me use the word "Shut up" to Councillor Pirri.
I did use the word. But not by itself alone.
I was speaking to a staff recommendation the town spend $100,000 of the hydro reserve fund; newly titled Council's Discretionary Reserve Fund; $70,000 earmarked for a contract manager for twelve months to plan a twelve month extravaganza to celebrate the town's sesquicentennial.
In his role of guidance and leadership the Mayor said;"The money is sitting in a bank account. We are looking for ways to spend it."
I was perturbed. I had awaited my turn to be recognised by the chair. I had the floor.
Councillor Pirri decided he should interrupt on a point of order.
To my recollection, the Councillor has yet to make a speech signifying any degree of passion.
He cannot know how it feels to be interrupted in full flight of oratory.
In keeping with the rules.I stopped speaking. Councillor Pirri then launched into a rambling explanation of his point of order.
Now, out of order, I informed him a point must be stated clearly and succinctly..and then shut up.My voice raised at that point.
The process calls for a ruling by the chair.
"If a rambling explanation is needed ,it is not a point." I said.
Councillor Gaertner was in the chair. The storm raged over her head.
"Alright then" said he. Obviously not noticing the steam coming out of my ears,; he declared " then it's a question of privilege"
A question of privilege is raised when a Councillor believes his integrity has been impugned.
Councillor Pirri had spoken in favor of the recommendation.
As was his right.
The Mayor had stated opposition to the recommendation simply boggled his mind.
In his view those opposing did not wish to honor the town's history. About then he referred to having all that money in the bank and looking for ways to spend it..
I admit, there are times when my own mind balks at believing what I am hearing.
It's like my front- loading washing machine overloaded. The pitch of the motor rises , the machine shakes and shivers and almost rocks . I hold my breath hoping for the cycle to end without the machine blowing apart.
It was at that point, Councillor Pirri decided to interrupt me.
Sometimes, it's more than a body can stand.
It"s not a classroom debate with topic set by the teacher and students assigned to speak for and against.
Councillors are thinking on their feet. They must be prepared to argue a position while also prepared to listen, mentally list counterpoints or allow oneself to be persuaded.
There is tension. There should be tension. .
Nine people at the table have responsibility to cover every aspect of the question. Listening is important.
Nothing trumps listening.
A pact formed beforehand is a hindrance to listening and being prepared to change one's mind.
Interrupting with a specious point of order or question of privilege, not knowing which, not only contributes nothing to the debate, it risks causing the machine to blow apart with various parts flying into orbit and landing who knows where.
To quote the late Dick Illingworth on making a point of order; "Stand up,speak up and shut up"
Before we had microphones , we rose to address the chair.
From that comes the expression " thinking on one's feet".
It's a skill that must be learned. And having been learned, it's hard to shake.
I did use the word. But not by itself alone.
I was speaking to a staff recommendation the town spend $100,000 of the hydro reserve fund; newly titled Council's Discretionary Reserve Fund; $70,000 earmarked for a contract manager for twelve months to plan a twelve month extravaganza to celebrate the town's sesquicentennial.
In his role of guidance and leadership the Mayor said;"The money is sitting in a bank account. We are looking for ways to spend it."
I was perturbed. I had awaited my turn to be recognised by the chair. I had the floor.
Councillor Pirri decided he should interrupt on a point of order.
To my recollection, the Councillor has yet to make a speech signifying any degree of passion.
He cannot know how it feels to be interrupted in full flight of oratory.
In keeping with the rules.I stopped speaking. Councillor Pirri then launched into a rambling explanation of his point of order.
Now, out of order, I informed him a point must be stated clearly and succinctly..and then shut up.My voice raised at that point.
The process calls for a ruling by the chair.
"If a rambling explanation is needed ,it is not a point." I said.
Councillor Gaertner was in the chair. The storm raged over her head.
"Alright then" said he. Obviously not noticing the steam coming out of my ears,; he declared " then it's a question of privilege"
A question of privilege is raised when a Councillor believes his integrity has been impugned.
Councillor Pirri had spoken in favor of the recommendation.
As was his right.
The Mayor had stated opposition to the recommendation simply boggled his mind.
In his view those opposing did not wish to honor the town's history. About then he referred to having all that money in the bank and looking for ways to spend it..
I admit, there are times when my own mind balks at believing what I am hearing.
It's like my front- loading washing machine overloaded. The pitch of the motor rises , the machine shakes and shivers and almost rocks . I hold my breath hoping for the cycle to end without the machine blowing apart.
It was at that point, Councillor Pirri decided to interrupt me.
Sometimes, it's more than a body can stand.
It"s not a classroom debate with topic set by the teacher and students assigned to speak for and against.
Councillors are thinking on their feet. They must be prepared to argue a position while also prepared to listen, mentally list counterpoints or allow oneself to be persuaded.
There is tension. There should be tension. .
Nine people at the table have responsibility to cover every aspect of the question. Listening is important.
Nothing trumps listening.
A pact formed beforehand is a hindrance to listening and being prepared to change one's mind.
Interrupting with a specious point of order or question of privilege, not knowing which, not only contributes nothing to the debate, it risks causing the machine to blow apart with various parts flying into orbit and landing who knows where.
To quote the late Dick Illingworth on making a point of order; "Stand up,speak up and shut up"
Before we had microphones , we rose to address the chair.
From that comes the expression " thinking on one's feet".
It's a skill that must be learned. And having been learned, it's hard to shake.
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