Seguin eNewsletter
Fall 2020
Your latest news and opportunities to connect with your community!
Mayor's Message
Thank you to everyone throughout Seguin for your outstanding cooperation throughout these COVID-19 times. Township Staff, our first responders and retail clerks have done a wonderful job of helping to provide the services we all depend on. As school reopens and our community centres and community programming restart gradually, I hope that everyone will continue to practice physical distancing, hand washing and mask wearing so that we can keep the infection rate low throughout our community.
 
Your Council has signed an agreement with Vianet to bring affordable high speed Internet to over 4000 Seguin properties. This will help enable more online learning, working from home and affordable communication for many. Broadband remains a top priority for your Council and we will not stop until 100% of our residents have access to good Internet.

For more information on this project please click HERE.
 
Gradually we are returning to more community programming with strict COVID-19 protocols in place for our community centres. The ice will be operational the first week of October and our libraries have curb side pickup available until they can re-open safely to serve you in person.
 
There are three things we need your help with:
 
1.      In order to update our Internet coverage maps, please take the Internet speed test on your computer, tablet or telephone at www.SMARTNOW.ca. It is in the lower left hand corner of the home page. The data is sent automatically to the CIRA (Canadian Internet Registration Authority) and ISED (Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada) to create detailed Internet coverage maps that will assist us target the under-served areas.
 
2.     Secondly, please complete the ICECAP (Integrated Community Energy and Climate Action Plans) Carbon Calculator at gbbr.ca/carbon-calculator to monitor local energy and greenhouse gas emission baselines and trends and contribute to the development of local climate action and energy plans.

3.   Please participate and have your voice heard as we review our Official Plan! This is your opportunity to communicate your thoughts on how you want to see Seguin develop over the coming years. More information on this can be found below in this newsletter.
 
Enjoy Seguin in all of its autumn splendor. Please stay safe and be kind to everyone you meet in these uncertain times.

Stay well everyone.

Regards,
Mayor Ann MacDiarmid
West Parry Sound Health Centre Updates
The West Parry Sound Health Centre's commitment to COVID-19 precautions is continuing as they adhere to all measures that have been put in place to protect patients, essential visitors, and everyone who is providing and supporting the delivery of safe, sustainable care. Provincial cases of COVID-19 are rising and they are not relaxing any of the controls that have been put in place.
 
The public is encouraged to take the time to read the material contained in their regular updates available here: WPSHC COVID-19 updates
Municipal Facilities Update
Your Community Services staff are working towards a reopening date at the Humphrey Arena of October 5th, and the other community halls in the Township are also starting to reopen, to groups who have submitted the required COVID-19 documentation.

In order to book a facility:

  • All renters will be required to confirm that they have read the Municipal COVID-19 Safety plan, and attest that participants of their rental will follow these rules.
  • All renters will be required to complete and return 'Appendix C - Addendum to Facility Rental Agreement' prior to booking facility space.
  • Once the group's safety plan ('Appendix C') has been approved, you will be contacted to book ice time. If adjustments are needed to your plan, we will contact you and work with you to meet our requirements.

Additionally, here are some answers to a few of the common questions we've been asked lately, to give you some idea of what the 'new normal' will look like in these facilities for the foreseeable future:

  • Masks are required in all indoor public spaces, unless engaged in physical activity.
  • Hall & Ice surface capacity has been reduced to allow for physical distancing.
  • All ice participants must enter the facility 'rink ready'.

As we all know, these rules are changing every day and we are here to work with you to help you get back up and running with your activity. If you require assistance in your planning process, please don't hesitate to contact us at jblower@seguin.ca

We look forward to seeing sport return to our facility soon!
Planning Department Update
The summer of 2020 has been a busy one for the planning department, with public consultation efforts occurring simultaneously on a number of different - and very important issues. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic limitations on public gatherings, the public process remains a vital part of our work, and Staff have been doing their best to include the public in Council's discussions & decisions.
Official Plan Review 2020-2025
As Seguin Township continues to evolve, so does our Official Plan!
This is one of the Township’s primary tools to direct the actions of local government, shape development decisions and manage growth in the short and long term. It also manages the effects these changes have on Seguin’s social, economic, cultural and natural environment. It addresses things like:
  • where housing, industry, offices, shops, and roads should go
  • which services and amenities are needed and where they will be located
  • what parts of the Township will be the focus for growth and what it will look like
  • what must be considered for growth and development

We are currently reviewing our Official Plan to ensure if reflects the changing needs, opportunities and aspirations of our residents. We all have a stake in the future of Seguin, and NOW is the time to get involved!

The review process will:
  • position the Township for its next phase of growth until 2025
  • incorporate new provincial legislation and regulations
  • implement new policy initiatives and plans
  • consider new trends, ideas and policy implications
  • have a community engagement process

Join the conversation at www.seguinopr.com or www.seguin.ca/officialplan
Telecommunication Tower - Consultation
Seguin Township is in the process of developing a Consultation Protocol for Telecommunication Tower Projects within the Township, and put out a call for public comment in early August.

For more information of this matter, please refer to the background reports found at www.seguin.ca/towers

Through the public input received on this issue, the Township is hoping to get an understanding from the public's perspective with respect to the Siting of Telecommunication Towers in Seguin. Community members who have submitted comments will be notified of the progress of Council's consideration. Council will be reviewing all comments from this public engagement in the fall.
Short Term Cottage Rental/Accommodation (STCR/STA)- Consultation
Over the summer, Seguin approached the public for comment regarding Short-Term Accommodation/Short-Term Cottage Rentals (STA/STCR).

The Township of Seguin has initiated a STA/STCR study and research is currently being done to provide Council with regulatory options for short-term rentals in the Township. The intent of the proposals will, more completely, restrict and eliminate “commercial" rental operators from existing in Seguin Township.

Not surprisingly, this is likely to be a controversial subject and, through public input, Council & Staff are hoping to get an understanding from the public's perspective with respect to regulating short-term accommodations/cottage rentals and potential solutions.

The period for commenting on Council’s draft STA/STCR regulations came to a close on Labour Day. Over 300 comments were received through this public consultation and Staff will now begin preparing a summary report to be presented to Council in October.

Additional information can be found on the Seguin township website at www.seguin.ca/stcr.
Environment & Energy Update
ICECAP Carbon Calculator

What is ICECAP and why should I participate?

The “Integrated Community Energy & Climate Action Plans” (ICECAP) project is a partnership of area municipalities and First Nations to understand their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, set targets to reduce them, and implement plans for action – thereby saving themselves and their resident’s money.

Working with the Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve, the ICECAP partnership is a unique regional model that provides support that area councils and communities need to progress toward a new energy future that produces fewer GHG emissions.

But we need your help! Municipalities have done their part and benchmarked their own GHG emissions. Now a new carbon calculator has been developed as an educational tool, and as a method for collecting data for the ICECAP partnership for our area and communities as a whole.

Data will be used in the following ways:
  • Monitor local energy and GHG emission trends in our area and communities.
  • Develop energy and GHG emission baselines for our area and communities.
  • Contribute to the development of local climate action and regional energy plans.
  • Identify opportunities for energy efficiency, reducing GHG emissions, and saving money on energy in our area and communities.

Visit ICECAP online at www.gbbr.ca/carbon-calculator to learn more and participate!
Fire Department Update
Fire services logo
Change your batteries!
Seguin Fire Services reminds residents of the simple, life-saving habit of changing and testing the batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors when setting the clocks back for daylight saving time on November 1, 2020.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless gas that is produced by incomplete combustion from sources such as furnaces, wood stoves and car exhaust. Known as the ‘Silent Killer’, Carbon Monoxide is a leading cause of fatal poisonings in North America.

As we transition into the cooler months when the use of furnaces and woodstoves increases, Seguin Fire Services wants to stress the importance of making sure you know when and where Carbon Monoxide alarms are required in your home, and also to remind you to CHECK YOUR BATTERIES!

There is a common misconception that Carbon Monoxide is heavier than air, which causes it to sink to the floor level, however, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Carbon Monoxide is virtually the same weight as air and mixes readily, meaning it moves through your house at all levels. This is why
combination Smoke/CO alarms on your ceiling can detect the presence of Carbon Monoxide.

By law you need Carbon Monoxide alarms in your home if you have; fuel burning appliances which include, woodstoves and fireplaces, anything natural gas or propane fired, such as stoves, fireplaces, dryers, furnaces, hot water heaters, or an attached garage.

In addition to having Carbon Monoxide alarms, it is extremely important to ensure they are in the proper location. Carbon Monoxide alarms must be located near all sleeping areas which means that you may require more than one Carbon Monoxide alarm if you have sleeping areas on multiple levels of your home. While there is no specification as to how far they need to be from sleeping areas, the closer the better.

Another important factor is the age and type of alarm. If the alarm is more than 7 years old, it is time to replace it. When replacing an alarm, it is important to consider the power supply and purchase one with a battery backup so in the event of a power failure you are still protected.

For more information please visit our website at www.seguin.ca/fireprevention or contact Seguin Fire Services at (705) 732-4300
Join our team!
Seguin Township is actively recruiting volunteer firefighters to join their team!

Our Volunteer Firefighters will be paid as part-time on- call firefighters. They will earn an hourly wage starting from $16.00 - $23.00, depending on rank and years of service. A minimum of 6 - 8 hours are available monthly.

Free training - No experience necessary!

We are currently accepting applications for the following fire stations:

Please visit the following link for an Firefighter Application Package.
Public Works Update
Seasonal Roads Upgrades
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As part of Council’s long-term plan to upgrade more seasonal roads in the Township, beginning this fall our Public Works department will begin plowing the following seasonal roads:

  • Spring Lane
  • Mathewson Drive
  • Berkley Road
  • 12th Concession
  • Tucker Lake Road
  • Tuck Road
  • Lynberry Drive

For more information please contact the Public Works department at 705-732-4300.

No Winter Parking on Municipal Roads
Please be reminded that there is NO parking on municipal roads from November 1-April 15 (Seguin Bylaw 2005-164). This bylaw was created to ensure that township plow operators can safely do their job without risk of injury or property damage. If it is snowing, and you are parked on a road that is being plowed, you will receive a ticket. If it is not snowing, and you do park for a short term on a municipal road, make sure your vehicle is as far off the road as possible and in clear line of site to on-coming traffic.
Backyard Composter Rebate Program
Composting at your residence is an easy and environmentally friendly way of reducing organic waste being sent to the landfill. When your compost is managed correctly it should not attract animals like bears.

Eligible Seguin Township residents can receive a rebate of up to $40.00 towards a purchased new backyard composter! Check out our COMPOSTING 101 video for tips and tricks, thanks to our friends at the Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve. Click here!

RECYCLING 101
Here is a list of some of the things you can recycle at each of our transfer stations:
CONTAINERS
  • Clear & coloured glass
  • Steel
  • Aluminum trays and foil
  • Plastic containers
  • Plastic soft drink bottles
  • Tubs & lids
FIBRES
  • Newspaper & mixed paper
  • Phone books
  • Boxboard
  • Brown paper bags
  • Cardboard
  • Magazines & flyers
  • Wax coated milk & juice cartons
Treasury Department News
2021 Strategic Planning & Budget Discussion

Seguin Council has begun 2021 budget discussions. View the 2021 Budget & Strategic Planning Schedule at www.seguin.ca/budget.
GO PAPERLESS!

Are you interested in receiving your property tax bills online?

Click HERE to register. Select "New User? Register Here" and create an account. You will need your property's roll number (all 19 digits including dashes) and your personal PIN (9 or 10 digits including the dash) in order to create an account. Your personal PIN number is located to the right of your name on your tax bill. Each year when the tax bills are prepared, you will receive an email notification of a new eBill to view.
2020 MPAC Assessment Update

The Ontario Government has announced that the 2020 Assessment Update has been postponed. The province has indicated that property assessments for the 2021 taxation year will continue to be based on the fully phased-in January 1, 2016 current values (i.e. the same valuation date in use for the 2020 taxation year).
Building Department Update
The Seguin Building Department continues to assist the public's building interests during these challenging times. Our staff are available to help you via telephone, email, zoom, and appointment if required. Inspections are taking place regularly, subject to COVID-19 protocols.

Despite the pandemic, building continues in Seguin with building permit revenue totaling $168,414, compared to $176,319 during the same period last year. While this is a slight reduction in revenue, this represents revenue generated from only 109 building permits, compared to the 167 building permits issued in Q1 & Q2 of 2019.

This means that, during this period, the value per permit has increased by 46%,
a considerable increase that can be attributed to the high construction value in the seasonal and single family dwelling permits.
Clerks Department Update
Due to efforts to contain the spread of COVID-19 and to protect all individuals, procedures for Township of Seguin Council meetings have been modified, and will continue to be conducted electronically, until at least October 31, 2020. The Council Chambers will not be open for public attendance at Council meetings until further notice. The Mayor will be in the Chambers along with a reduced number of senior staff during meetings. The remaining members of Council and staff will participate electronically.

Council Meetings will be live streamed on Seguin Township's YouTube Channel.
 
Agendas & Minutes
Council meeting agendas, agenda packages, addendum packages and minutes are posted on the Township's website. The public may submit written comments to Council's attention to the municipal office regarding agenda matters, other than matters related to a Public Meeting under the Planning Act, via email to info@seguin.ca or facsimile (705) 732-6347 or regular mail or the municipal office drop box outside the main entrance to the municipal office located at 5 Humphrey Drive. Written comments related to an agenda item, other than matters related to a Public Meeting under the Planning Act, submitted by 9:00 a.m. on the regular business day preceding the scheduled meeting where that item will be considered will be considered as public information and submitted to Council and become part of the public record. It is the responsibility of the author to ensure any submissions to the Township of Seguin are received.

Delegations to Council
Persons wishing to be a Delegate to Council must follow the normal process of submitting a completed Delegations to Council Process form. Delegates will participate electronically. For further information contact the Clerk’s Department (705) 732-4300 or (877) 4SEGUIN (473-4846).
Seguin Public Libraries
The Seguin Public Library Board and staff have been working diligently to provide your library needs during these past several months and are considering what our future steps forward will be. We thank you for your patience, while our staff incorporated curbside service for you.
 
Also thank you to our staff for working so diligently to make our libraries work smoothly under these unprecedented conditions. Well done!
 
We would appreciate hearing your suggestions about how it would be best
to move forward while considering health advice and COVID-19 regulations. Please forward your ideas to our CEO, Stefanie Veneranda at ceo@seguinpubliclibraries
 
Please watch for future announcements on our social media and website www.seguinpubliclibraries.ca
Seguin Township
5 Humphrey Drive
Seguin, ON. P2A 2W8
T. 705-732-4300