CKL COUNCIL HIGHLIGHTS
The following are highlights from the Regular Council Meeting on December 14, 2021. This was the final Council meeting of the year and Council will return at Committee of the Whole on January 11, 2022.
Deputy Mayor Election
Councillor Pat O’Reilly closed out his time as Deputy Mayor and Councillor Richardson was elected for the 2022 term, effective January 1, 2022.
Seasonal Trailer Park By-law Update
Following Council’s resolution to amend the Seasonal Trailer Park By-law and the response period for park owners this fall, staff presented their final report to update the by-law. Council approved the amended by-law as printed, which includes language to help clarify and prevent violations of year-round occupancy of seasonal trailer parks, allows for annual inspections of the trailer parks and increases licensing fees to $400 per year to offset administration costs and enforcement. The amendments will take effect January 2022.
Electric Vehicles for Fleet in Kawartha Lakes
Staff brought forward a report that looked at the feasibility of transforming fleet vehicles from gas powered to electric. In June 2021, the federal government announced it would adopt requirements for 100% of passenger vehicle sales to be zero emissions or electric vehicles (EVs) by 2035. Considering the timeline, Council asked staff to provide a report outlining the requirements that the municipality would need to begin transitioning to EVs. Staff were directed to seek out federal grants and consider applications in 2023.
Discharge of Firearms By-law Update
Council approved amendments to the Discharge of Firearms By-law to address the discharge of firearms in certain areas near residential properties. Following Council’s direction earlier this fall, staff consulted with the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters and members of the firearm and agriculture community to address concerns. The amended by-law will take effect the first quarter of 2022.
Textile recycling in Kawartha Lakes
In Spring 2021, the municipality began a pilot program to collect textile materials through Talize/Recycle Rewards. Textile bins were placed at all five landfills and two curbside collection events took place over the course of the year. In total, 42 tonnes of textile materials were collected, surpassing the original goal of 40 tonnes that was set in 2020. Council approved the continuation of the pilot program for 2022.
Source Separated Organics Feasibility
As outlined in the updated Integrated Waste Management Study, staff were directed to complete a study by the end of 2021 that looked into the possibility of Source Separated Organics (SSO) program for the municipality. In the report, staff provided current provincial policies and background research on studies conducted, including a voluntary pilot that took place in Fenelon Falls for seven years. Staff also reported on the work they’ve done to promote backyard composting, highlighting that over 400 residents picked up a composter in 2021, showing interest in this type of program. The report outlines the different options available for the municipality to consider an SSO program in the future.
Amendments to By-Law to Regulate Noise
Staff’s recommended amendments to the By-Law to Regulate Noise were adopted by Council, prohibiting yelling, shouting, hooting and whistling all days of the week from 11pm to 7am effective immediately. Previously such noise was prohibited between 9pm and 7am.
The full meeting is available for viewing on City of Kawartha Lakes YouTube channel.