January 2020
Published monthly
Newsletter
Vol. 1, Edition 7
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Welcome to our first edition of
The Monthly Report for 2020.
We hope you had a great holiday season with family and friends.
This month we have a number of items to tell you about.
We bring you details about the New Year's Levee that happened in January, as well as information about the launch of our new Snow Angels program.
And we have some good news about overall building activity in Wasaga Beach. 2019 was certainly an impressive year.
Other information you'll find in this edition:
- details about our town logo contest;
- all you need to know about Snowman Mania;
- our plans for adult hockey fun;
- a reminder about the Senior of the Year contest;
- upcoming theatre programs;
- news about our youth leadership program;
- and much, much more.
This includes information about council's activity at the Rural Ontario Municipal Association Conference, our Wasaga Beach Council Highlights package, and a fun look at the Wasaga Beach of yesteryear.
Thank you for taking the time to read
The Monthly Report. Remember, if you haven't subscribed you can do so by visiting here:
http://bit.ly/2nyvDpX.
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Congratulations, Pastor Keith Lockhart
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HAPPY RETIREMENT On behalf of Mayor Nina Bifolchi and members of council, Councillor Stan Wells (left) brought greetings at the Retirement Come and Go Tea for Pastor Keith Lockhart at Wasaga Beach United Church on Dec. 29. Pastor Lockhart has retired after 26 years in ministry. Thank you for your service to our community, Pastor Lockhart.
Photo courtesy Metroland
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START OF NEW YEAR Simcoe-Grey MP Terry Dowdall joined Mayor Nina Bifolchi and members of council for the town's annual New Year's Levee at the RecPlex on Jan. 12. Despite snowy weather leading up to the event, roughly 200 people came out for the afternoon.
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CUP OF CHEER Residents, members of council and town staff visit during the annual New Year's Levee. Thank you to everyone who joined us for the day.
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Wasaga Beach drinking water system receives
100 percent rating
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Once again, the Town of Wasaga Beach drinking water system received a perfect rating from provincial government inspectors.
The good grade was part of the annual drinking water system report that council members received at their regular monthly meeting on Jan. 28.
Representatives of the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks conducted their inspection on Nov. 22, 2019. There were no issues of non-compliance and no Provincial Officer’s orders to comply.
“I congratulate town staff and the Ontario Clean Water Agency, which acts as the operating authority for our system, for the diligent care of our water supply,” Mayor Nina Bifolchi said. “Safe drinking water is something we all rely on every day. It is reassuring to know our system is in such good hands.”
Under the Safe Drinking Water Act, provincial inspectors examine municipal drinking water systems every year. The focus of inspections is to confirm compliance with all legislation, policy and guidelines.
The annual report for the town’s drinking water system is available for viewing at
www.wasagabeach.com
or in person at the town hall, 30 Lewis Street.
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FEELING ARTISTIC? We are updating the Town of Wasaga Beach logo and invite you to submit your concept. Learn more here:
Contest details
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On the road to annual
ROMA conference
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ROMA CONFERENCE On Jan. 20, at the Rural Ontario Municipal Association conference in Toronto, Mayor Nina Bifolchi and members of council met with Billy Pang, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries. Topics discussed included the town’s request for a provincial grant to help pay for the new arena and library, as well as collaborative opportunities to market Wasaga Beach Provincial Park, along with sport tourism marketing initiatives.
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MINISTERIAL MEETING Members of Wasaga Beach council continued their work at the Rural Ontario Municipal Association conference on Jan. 20, meeting with Environment, Conservation and Parks Minister Jeff Yurek. Topics discussed included high water levels, the importance of having a streamlined approval process for Special Events on Ontario Parks property administered by the town, and the draft Wasaga Beach Provincial Park Master Plan.
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Council members advocate for Wasaga Beach at ROMA
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Members of Wasaga Beach Town Council attended the Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) Conference in Toronto Jan. 19-21, meeting with two representatives of the provincial government to discuss local concerns.
“We had a great opportunity as a council to speak with members of the government and have a healthy dialogue about issues of importance,” Mayor Nina Bifolchi said. “I am thankful for the opportunity to advance our priorities and we look forward to positive outcomes.”
The two meetings took place Monday with the initial face-to-face involving MPP Billy Pang, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries.
Topics discussed included the town’s request for a provincial grant to help pay for the new arena and library at 544 River Rd. W.
The town also discussed the need for collaboration in the marketing of the tourism attractions within Wasaga Beach Provincial Park, including the beachfront, trails, dune system, and the Nottawasaga River, noting all of these amenities are drawing cards to the community.
Another topic was the town’s pursuit of sport tourism marketing initiatives in the municipality. Town officials noted that Wasaga Beach is becoming a hot bed for sport tourism, including paddle boarding, kayaking, wind surfing, cross-country running, and hiking.
The town’s second meeting was with Environment, Conservation and Parks Minister Jeff Yurek.
The first topic was the impact of high water levels at Wasaga Beach Provincial Park and adjacent private properties. Town officials reiterated their request for a streamlined permit approval process for shoreline residents wanting to undertake repairs following high water incidents that damage property.
Town officials also indicated they would like the municipality to retain approval authority for Special Event activity at the Beach Area 1 portion of Wasaga Beach Provincial Park. Ontario Parks recently took back responsibility for maintenance and enforcement of the Beach Area 1 section. The town wants to retain the approval function for events, in coordination with the park office. The streamlined service worked well in the past and the town wants it to continue.
Finally, the town discussed the draft Wasaga Beach Provincial Park Master Plan, which has been in development for several years. The town, stressing the importance of the plan to Wasaga Beach, inquired as to the timing of the release of the draft plan for public input.
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2019 building activity
ends on a strong note
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Building activity in Wasaga Beach for 2019 surpassed the previous year by more than 200 permits.
“We have really good numbers to report for the past year and that reflects the confidence of our development community, as well individuals pursuing smaller projects,” said Danny Rodgers, director of Building and Development Standards for the Town of Wasaga Beach. “Throughout the year, all relevant town departments worked to ensure the approval process for applicants was as efficient as possible.”
For 2019, the town issued 623 permits, compared to 403 the year before.
Permits issued for single-family dwellings sat at 174, while the number of permits for townhouse units was 173. Residential additions and renovations accounted for 71 permits.
The value of construction for 2019 is $123-million, compared to $66-million the previous year. Construction brought in almost $886,000 in fees for the municipality, versus $429,839 in 2018.
“This is a fantastic way for us to end the year,” Mayor Nina Bifolchi said. “Our community is clearly growing and moving forward.”
Mayor Bifolchi said the town anticipates another strong building year in 2020 as residential and commercial projects continue to come online.
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Get your parking permit now!
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Parking permits for residents and non-residents are now available for the 2020 year.
A Resident Parking Permit is designed to offer access to municipal parking lots at a cost of $25.00 + HST per permit.
The permit is an exemption from paying the parking fee only. All other provisions of the Parking Bylaw still apply.
Where can you get a permit? They are issued by the Treasury Department at the Water and Tax Counter at town hall, 30 Lewis St. Residents must apply in person Monday to Friday, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
How many permits can you obtain? Owners/tenants may obtain one permit only for the property.
Permit holders properly displaying the permit are exempt from paying for parking Monday to Sunday from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. in municipal lots.
Non-resident parking passes are available through the Honk Mobile App. The cost is $54.95 + HST. Each pass is valid for two licence plates and valid until Oct. 14.
To purchase a pass through Honk, download the app, create an account, and search for the Town of Wasaga Beach. The pass is valid in all municipal lots.
For more information, call the municipal bylaw office at 705-429-2511.
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CELEBRATING CRIME STOPPERS January was Crime Stoppers Month in Wasaga Beach. Mayor Nina Bifolchi, members of council, the Huronia West OPP, and Crime Stoppers representatives were on hand for a proclamation reading and flag-raising at town hall Jan. 9. Learn more about Crime Stoppers here:
http://www.crimestopperssdm.com
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New curbside collection schedule to bring consistency and predictability back
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The County of Simcoe is changing curbside waste collections to bring consistency and predictability back to pick-up schedules and support the growth of the County’s green bin program.
As of February 3, 2020, garbage and recycling collection will occur on alternating weeks, while green bin collection will continue every week.
During the week of February 3 to 7, residents will receive garbage and green bin collection only.
The following week (February 10 to 14), residents will receive recycling and green bin collection only. Collections will alternate on this schedule moving forward.
What this means:
* No change to your regular collection day. Collection times will change, so have your materials out by 7 a.m. on your collection day
* Green bin collection will continue to occur every week
* Garbage and recycling collection will alternate every other week (one week garbage the next week recycling)
* Residents can set out two bags/containers of garbage every other week (weight and size restrictions still apply)
* Recycling no longer needs to be separated into different bins. Materials will be sorted later in the process
* Excess recyclables can be placed in bins, cardboard boxes or see-through plastic bags
The County is hopeful this change will address the labour challenges experienced by its waste collection contractor throughout 2019 by reducing the number of collection vehicles required each day. This change will also support the environment and encourage residents to positively adjust their waste habits.
The County recognizes that this is a significant change for residents. For more information on how the County is helping households manage this transition, visit
www.simcoe.ca/collectionschange
or call 1-800-263-3199.
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Take the LINX bus to Barrie
The route runs weekdays between Allandale Station in Barrie and the Real Canadian Super Store in Wasaga Beach.
The fare is $6 one way.
Ride the Wave ... hop on Wasaga Beach Transit to get around town
Wasaga Beach Transit is an affordable and economical way to get around our community.
Our buses run seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Leave the car at home and take the bus.
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REMINDER: Winter Parking Bylaw is now in effect
The Winter Parking Bylaw is in effect Nov. 1 to April 1 each year.
No person shall park a vehicle on town streets between the hours of 1 a.m. and 7 a.m. during the period outlined above.
No person shall park a vehicle on town streets in such a manner as to interfere with the clearing of snow.
Any vehicle found to be in contravention of the bylaw may be issued a parking ticket and have their vehicle towed.
For more information, please contact our Municipal Law Enforcement Department at 705-429-2511.
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When to call 211 or 911
211 is a tremendous community connection program, where a live person assists callers 24 hours a day to find information about a wide range of health and community services.
911 is strictly for emergencies (fire, ambulance, police) when help is urgently required.
Neighbours Helping Neighbours
The changing seasons are upon us! In the spirit of our age-friendly community, individuals are encouraged to assist those who may have difficulty raking leaves, clearing snow and performing other such tasks that are a challenge when trying to remain independent in their own homes.
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REMINDER: Snow shoveling safety tips
Sooner than later it will be snow removal season.
Please remember the following before heading out to clear your driveway.
Warm your muscles before starting. Some simple movements can help prepare you for the task ahead.
Push the snow rather than lift. And when you must lift bend your knees.
Lighten your load.
Take a break after 20 or 30 minutes.
Keep up with the snowfall.
Stay hydrated.
Wear layers so you can maintain a comfortable body temperature.
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Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
Search "Town of Wasaga Beach" on Facebook and Twitter and follow us for daily updates on town activities and services.
Be the first to know what's new!
Get information about agendas, town programs, council happenings, and much more.
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Did you know the town has policies and practices for winter maintenance of roads and sidewalks?
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In From The Cold program running at Lighthouse Church
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Did you know Wasaga Beach now has an In From the Cold program?
The program is run at Lighthouse Community Church, 800 Sunnidale Rd.
What exactly is In From the Cold?
In From the Cold provides free shelter to people experiencing homelessness.
Lighthouse states that shelter and meals will be provided from November to April when temperatures drop to -15C or -20C windchill.
On those nights, the shelter is open for registration between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.
If transportation is an issue to the church, individuals can telephone 705-351-2487.
People interested in volunteering at the shelter should pick up an application form at the church.
Donations of shelter supplies, bedding, and meals can be dropped off at the church.
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Wasaga Beach Council Highlights
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Wasaga Beach Town Council met on Tuesday, Jan. 28.
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Find a meeting in our calendar
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Looking for information on when town meetings take place?
Check out our website for dates and times. You can see the whole month at a glance.
Learn more here:
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Have you read our Year in Review yet?
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Waste collection information
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The County of Simcoe is responsible for waste collection in the Town of Wasaga Beach.
You can learn more about waste services by visiting the county's website.
The site includes a variety of information, including waste collection schedules and landfill locations. Learn more here:
http://bit.ly/2m4oVad
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Water conservation rebates are available!
The Town of Wasaga Beach has a water conservation rebate program.
When you install a low flow or dual flush toilet you are eligible for a $70 rebate.
Residents who install a rain barrel can get a $30 rebate.
Please note that only property owners on municipal water are eligible for the rebate.
You can find rebate forms at
www.wasagabeach.com or pick one up at town hall, 30 Lewis St. Applicants must include copies of receipts indicating that they purchased the particular item.
Completed forms and supporting documentation can be presented at town hall. The rebate will be applied to your next water bill.
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You've got payment options through Plastiq
Through the town's website using Plastiq (third party), you can pay your property tax and/or water/wastewater bill by Visa, Mastercard, or American Express.
There will be a service fee of 2.5 percent applied by the service provider, Plastiq.
Please note that there are several low or no-cost means of paying your bill with the town. These include equal payment plan, telephone banking, mailing a cheque, or placing a payment in our drop box.
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There are always fun things to see and do in Wasaga Beach. Check out the Special Events section of our website to learn what's coming up.
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Oakview Woods
Outdoor Rink
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Our Oakview Woods Outdoor Rink is now open for the season. Learn more here:
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Older Adult - February programs
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Each month the Senior Active Living Centre offers a variety of programs and activities for the residents of Wasaga Beach to enjoy.
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Youth Centre - February programs
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Are you a young person living in Wasaga Beach?
We have lots of youth programing for the month. Check out our calendar for details:
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Check out our Fall/Winter Guide
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Did you know our fall/winter recreation guide is available online?
You'll find all kinds of information about upcoming programs, activities, and events in Wasaga Beach.
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Main Street bridge project
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UNDER WAY As we outlined in our July newsletter (see here:
https://conta.cc/2SAZjhJ), work has started on the Main Street Bridge rehabilitation project. This $6.1-million investment will see a refurbished bridge when the work is completed in 2021. Due to the work taking place, the bridge is now down to one lane. Signals are used to advise motorists about right-of-way. We have received reports of some motorists ignoring the red lights. Please do not do this. Ignoring the lights is against the Highway Traffic Act and you could be subject to charges. Furthermore, you put yourself, your passengers, and other motorists at risk of injury. You can access our map, outlining the placement of signals and a detour route, by clicking here:
http://bit.ly/2kTjtXI
***Please note the bridge
will be opened to two lanes
for summer 2020.***
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Check out Let's Talk Wasaga Beach here:
Click
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Pocket dialing can tie up resources
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When inadvertently dialing 911 on your cell phone, please remember you are activating an emergency service.
In doing so, emergency personnel are committed to determining the origin and extent of the emergency that may be happening.
This means they have to locate the individual who inadvertently dialed 911.
This response can draw needed resources away from actual emergencies. To prevent this please, when not using your phone, lock it so that unintentional calls do not happen.
If you do dial 911 by mistake, please do not hang up on the operator. Explain the call is in fact not an emergency, tell the operator where you are and stay there. This is because an officer must attend your location to determine an emergency is not taking place.
By hanging up or leaving your current location, you create a situation where emergency services must try to locate you, and in the process tie up precious resources.
Only you can stop 911 misdials.
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Are you familiar with MedicAlert Connect?
MedicAlert Connect provides Ontario Provincial Police with 24/7 direct access to a person's medical information including conditions, anxiety triggers, and de-escalation techniques, to assist with reuniting you and your loved ones.
To learn more about this program, see here:
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Did you know the OPP has an online crime reporting site?
The site lets you report a crime without visiting an OPP detachment. Learn more here:
http://bit.ly/2n3EoI8
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BACK IN THE DAY
McGaws Bungalows were located on the beachfront, between 19
th
and 20
th
streets. Like many of the cottage courts, they would operate a small storefront to provide confectioneries and beachfront items for the tourists. This is a picture of McGaws' new store with a date of 1954-1955. It is interesting to note that the water level appears high in this photo.
From the Historical Advisory Committee
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Wasaga Beach Public Library
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Here is the January/February newsletter from the Wasaga Beach Public Library.
The library is at 120 Glenwood Dr. Stop by to access reading material, movies, computers, programs, and much more.
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Message from Mayor Nina Bifolchi
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Let me start by saying thank you to everyone who attended the New Year’s Levee at the RecPlex in January.
It was fantastic to visit with residents who came out. I want to commend our staff for all of their work organizing the afternoon.
As I stated in another message to our community a few weeks ago, this is going to be a remarkable year for our town and a spectacular decade as Wasaga Beach continues moving forward.
It is my belief that by the end of this decade, our town will be home to significant new commercial development, as well as residential growth. In fact, I expect a greater choice in housing will be one of the biggest accomplishments we will see in this decade. By that, I mean more semis, townhomes, condominiums, apartments, and potentially innovative new forms of housing stock.
And I believe we will see new schools, enhanced public transit, greater medical choices, new dining and entertainment options, plus much more.
It is an exciting time to be a part of our community. Wasaga Beach has undergone significant transformation in the last 25 to 30 years and that trend will continue as we move through the 2020s.
One significant step we are taking this year will happen in the spring when we issue the Request for Proposals (RFP) for town-owned land at the beachfront. Last year, we went through a Request for Expressions of Interest exercise and identified six firms for the RFP phase. Through the RFP, council is interested in learning what these firms have in mind for development.
Work will also continue this year on our new twinpad arena and library at 544 River Rd. W. Council approved the site in 2019. This year the work will focus on design and preparation for the construction phase. We do not know a specific opening date yet, but we are aiming for 2022.
In other news, I want to mention we have several Special Events activities planned for 2020. I encourage you to visit the Special Events section of our website at
www.wasagabeach.com to learn about all that we have in store.
As always, it is my pleasure to update you and please accept my best wishes.
Nina Bifolchi is mayor of Wasaga Beach.
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Wasaga Beach Town Council
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Mayor Nina Bifolchi
705-429-3844, ext. 2225
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Deputy Mayor Sylvia Bray
705-888-1131
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Councillor Joe Belanger
705-816-0733
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Councillor David Foster
705-441-2211
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Councillor George Watson
705-309-7653
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Councillor Stan Wells
705-429-3239
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Members of Wasaga Beach town council are elected to represent the people of Wasaga Beach.
You can discuss town matters with a member of council by calling or e-mailing them.
If you would like a member of council to attend a special event please contact Pam Kenwell at 705-429-3844, ext. 2246 or e-mail
eamc@wasagabeach.com
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George
Vadeboncoeur
Chief Administrative Officer
705-429-3844, ext. 2222
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See what's happening on our social sites:
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