Ward 1 News from Councillor Kelvin Galbraith
November 2020 UPDATE Edition
IN THIS ISSUE:
  • Greetings from Councillor Galbraith
  • Burlington Enters Red/Control Phase
  • COVID-19 Updates from City of Burlington
  • COVID-19 Updates - Halton Region
  • COVID-19 Updates from Province of Ontario, Federal Government and Other helpful links
  • Applications Now Open for the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy
  • Revamped Loose-Leaf Collection Program 2020 – Now Underway
  • Tyandaga Recreation Possibilities Virtual Town Halls & Survey – Recap
  • Rudolph Has Arrived in Ward 1!
  • Nancy Rowland Appointed as new CEO of RBG
  • Aldershot School I-STEM Program Success
  • Hydro One Announces Emergency Vegetation Work in Ward 1
  • Gypsy Moth Program 2021 Update
  • Burlington Rural Broadband Survey
  • Ward 1 Construction Updates
  • Ward 1 Development Updates
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • News From City Hall – includes Santa’s Holiday Magic Trail, New Fire Chief, Info on Neighbourhood Rinks and more….
  • Community Resources, News & Links
  • Local Boards and Community Involvement
  • Stay Connected
Hello Ward 1 friends and neighbours!

As we approach the end of 2020, many are beginning to reflect on what a strange year this has been. 2020 will certainly go down as the year with the most change and challenges for many people as we all deal with the on going pandemic in our own ways. Currently as I write this, we as part of Halton Region are in the Red Zone and have just been handed additional restrictions such as group gatherings down to 5 people limits. Things can, and do change almost daily, as numbers of Covid19 cases increase in Ontario and around the globe.

I am personally experiencing some Covid19 fatigue and frustrations with the changing decisions at all levels of government. We as municipal decision-makers can only make decisions about our facilities and programming, whereas the greater decisions of zones and large-scale restrictions and gatherings are made by the province. We must all work together to support these measures and help reduce the cases of Covid19. If the numbers do not start to go down then we are most certainly facing another lockdown in Halton Region which I fear could have detrimental affects on our local business community and economy. Talks of an approaching vaccine are very exciting and give us hope for some return to normalcy in 2021 but it will take time to implement and further time to achieve large-scale immunity.

It is too early to know what the holiday season permissions will be but we can all assume that it will not permit the usual large family gatherings and travel that often dominates the Christmas season. We need to prepare for the virtual celebrations and try to embrace them. Try scheduled family zoom social meetings with games and refreshments to get the larger group together. These can be very fun and safe at the same time. No exposure risk to family members and no designated driver needed.

There are many organizations that are helping to support the growing number of those in need as unemployment continues to rise through this pandemic. Please consider donating to the local Food Bank or Compassion Society this holiday season to help the many that are less fortunate and those that are new to this category because of the on-going economic crisis.

** PLEASE NOTE, I and my staff are working remotely - we are online every weekday and ready to take your questions and concerns. If you are unable to reach me, you can contact my assistant Tara at tara.thorp@burlington.ca or for service requests such as potholes or street light maintenance etc, you can contact city@burlington.ca

There is much information in this newsletter but if you feel that I have missed something or you would like an update on anything else in Ward 1, please don't hesitate to reach out to me.

If you would like to stay up to date on news from both at City Hall and in and around Burlington, be sure to Like our Facebook Page, Follow on Twitter or Instagram.
Kelvin Galbraith
Ward 1 City and Regional Councillor
City Of Burlington
kelvin.galbraith@burlington.ca
BURLINGTON ENTERS RED/CONTROL PHASE
On Friday, Nov. 13, 2020, the Province announced Halton Region, including Burlington, would move into the Red (Control) Phase with additional restrictions to help control the spread of COVID-19. This took effect on Monday, Nov. 16 and will be in place for a minimum of 28-days.

City of Burlington facilities and recreation programming can remain open with new restrictions in addition to ones already in place. Recreation Services staff are contacting user groups, renters and individuals affected by these changes.

New restrictions for City facilities and recreation as a result of moving in the Red (Control) Phase include:

  • 10 people maximum for indoor programs such as ice pads and gymnasiums
  • 25 people maximum for outdoor programs
  • Drop-in skating programs will have a maximum capacity of 10 people
  • Indoor pickleball is cancelled
  • No spectators permitted at sports and recreational fitness facilities except for parent/guardian supervision of children
  • All other program participants will receive targeted communication.

These new restrictions will impact program providers in the following ways:

  • For all team sport, indoor and outdoor game-play is no longer permitted
  • Teams in City facilities and on City fields can adjust their programming to training and skill development with a maximum of 10 people indoor and 25 outdoor. Program participants are encouraged to reach out to their organization for additional information
  • If you are a participant in a non-City program, please connect with your organization to understand how this may impact you
  • No spectators permitted at sports and recreational fitness facilities except for parent/guardian supervision of children
  • No contact permitted for team or individual sports
  • Limit duration of stay to 90 minutes
  • Require active screening, contact information and attendance for all patrons
  • No live performances. Performing arts rehearsal or performing a recorded or broadcasted event permitted
  • Singers and players of brass or wind instruments must be separated from any other performers by plexiglass or other impermeable barrier.

Existing restrictions that will remain for City facilities and recreation include:

  • Physical distancing
  • Mandatory face coverings
  • Mandatory health pre-screening, pre-registration and online payment.
  • Virtual programming, Active at Home is still available at burlington.ca/activeathome and offers a wide variety of activities.

Anyone with questions should follow up with their sport provider or user group or you can call Recreation Services’ Customer service at 905-335-7738.

For more information about fall Recreation Programming or drop-in programs, visit burlington.ca/fall.
ONGOING COVID UPDATES FROM CITY OF BURLINGTON
City of Burlington Council, Senior Management and Communications are updating the city's COVID-19 webpage daily. Many answers can be found regarding city services and outside resources. Residents are highly encouraged to visit and subscribe to this page to receive updates: https://www.burlington.ca/en/your-city/corona-virus.asp

Residents may visit the Community resource page which provides links to many resources from volunteering, donations, where to get support, applying for grants, mental health supports, and community resource mapping. Rather than repeat all of this information here, we encourage you to visit the page to find links to organizations that can help you:
To access this page and discover these many resource links, please visit https://www.burlington.ca/en/your-city/covid-19-community-resources.asp

If your issues are not addressed on the above page, please visit the City's COVID-19 FAQ page which addresses many of the other questions we have received during the course of the shutdown https://www.burlington.ca/en/your-city/coronavirus-covid-19-faqs.asp

Due to the daily updates from the provincial and federal government, information is constantly changing - if you cannot find the answers you are seeking, please contact City Hall at city@burlington.ca and staff will endeavour to get information for you.
COVID 19 UPDATES FROM REGION OF HALTON
(numbers above are as at 8:00am November 25, 2020)
Current situation
Cases continue to rise across the province and in Halton and it is more important than ever to follow public health direction and take personal responsibility to protect yourself and others. Stopping the spread of COVID-19 is a community effort and our individual actions do make a difference.

As the situation continues to evolve and actions are taken, residents are asked to check the provincial website, ontario.ca/covid19, regularly for updates.

For the latest information on COVID-19 in Halton region please read below:
  • Update to public events and social gathering limits: On November 20, Ontario announced that Red (Control) Level regions will have new gathering limits (5 people indoors, 25 people outdoors). New limits will be in effect starting Monday, November 23.
  • Provincial COVID-19 Response Framework: On November 13, Ontario announced that Halton Region will move to the Red Level (Control) of the COVID-19 Response Framework. The Red Level is in effect as of 12:01 a.m. on Monday, November 16.
  • Update from Halton Region Medical Officer of Health: In response to the announcement, Dr. Hamidah Meghani, Halton Region’s Medical Officer of Health, has issued an update letter to the community.
  • Get more information and details on how the Framework impacts the Halton Community.
  • Read the latest community update from Halton Region Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Hamidah Meghani (November 13).
  • Read the Province’s COVID-19 Response Framework.
  • Halton Regional Council update from Dr. Meghani On October 21, 2020, Dr. Hamidah Meghani, Halton Region’s Medical Officer of Health, provided an update to Regional Council on the current COVID-19 situation, including information on recent data and trends. Watch the full presentation.
  • Class Order: In response to rising cases and to align with Provincial requirements, Halton Region’s Medical Officer of Health has made important amendments to the Class Order under Section 22 of the Health Protection and Promotion Act. Effective October 5, the amendments revise and clarify the self-isolation requirements and other legal obligations of those who are cases of COVID-19. To learn more, please read the Class Order, Class Order Fact Sheet or our recent media release.
What does the Control level mean?
All measures from prior levels (see here), plus:
  • Implement broader-scale measures and restrictions, across multiple sectors, to control transmission (Return to modified Stage 2).
  • Restrictions are the most severe available before wide scale business or organizational closure
Additional Public Health Measures include:
  • Organized public events and social gatherings: 5 people indoors, 25 people outdoors
  • Sports and recreational fitness: 10 people indoors, 25 people outdoors, games and scrimmages are prohibited
  • Food and drink establishments: 10 patrons seated indoors, 4 persons per table, limited operating hours
  • Meeting and event spaces: maximum of 10 patrons seated indoors limited operating hours
  • Personal care services: services requiring removal of face coverings prohibited


What indicators are used for this level?
Epidemiology
  • Weekly incidence rate ≥ 40 per 100,000
  • % positivity ≥ 2.5%
  • Rt is ≥ 1.2
  • Repeated outbreaks in multiple sectors/settings, increasing/# of large outbreaks
  • Level of community transmission/non-epi linked cases increasing
Health System Capacity
  • Hospital and ICU capacity at risk of being overwhelmed
PH System Capacity
  • Public health unit capacity for case and contact management at risk or overwhelmed
Getting tested
Do I need a test?
The Province sets the criteria for testing. Please refer to the Ontario website for the latest testing criteria and review carefully.
Please note that testing is strongly recommended for people who are symptomatic (showing symptoms of COVID-19) or have had symptoms in the past 10 days.
Asymptomatic testing or testing for low-risk exposures is not recommended at this time. Please refer to the provincial testing criteria for more information.

How do I get a test?
Local hospitals are responsible for administering COVID-19 assessment and testing for those individuals who meet the province’s eligibility criteria
To maintain physical distancing and avoid crowding, testing is by appointment only. At this time, there are no “walk-in” testing sites in Halton region.
The Province has introduced a plan to provide testing through pharmacies by appointment for people with no symptoms of COVID-19. At this time, there are no participating pharmacies in Halton region. The province has a plan to roll out more locations across Ontario in the coming days.
Please check this page link (see above) regularly for updates on testing locations in Halton region.

I am a resident of Burlington: 

I would still like a test. How can I get assessed to determine if I should be tested?
Other options for assessment:

If you are experiencing severe symptoms, please go to your nearest Emergency Department or call 911.

If you have any questions, please email accesshalton@halton.ca or call 311.

COVID 19 UPDATES FROM PROVINCE OF ONTARIO /GOVERNMENT OF CANADA & OTHER HELPFUL LINKS
Ontario Cases:
Canadian Cases:
If you are looking for links to the federal benefits and services that are available to Canadians, please visit: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/corporate/notices/coronavirus.html

Other resources to contact:
  • Government of Ontario: www.ontario.ca/coronavirus
  • Government of Canada: www.canada.ca/coronavirus
  • World Health Organization: www.who.int
  • For information on Ontario's social, health, community and government services: 211.ca
  • For those whose second language is English, the province has provided COVID-19 information in multiple languages - see the link in the Help Stop The Spread Section of https://www.ontario.ca/page/2019-novel-coronavirus
  • COVID-19 Information (Municipal, Regional, Provincial, Federal) https://halton.cioc.ca/record/OAK0003
  • COVID-19 Community Support (Food Banks, Community Outreach, Mental Health) https://halton.cioc.ca/record/OAK0007
  • COVID-19 Financial Relief  https://halton.cioc.ca/record/OAK0083
  • COVID-19 Family Isolation Resources https://halton.cioc.ca/record/OAK0006
  • Halton Women's Place: Continue to provide shelter for those seeking assistance and counselling for those who need it online. If you or someone you know need assistance please visit their website. Their shelters are currently at capacity and they are in need of more resources to support their hundreds of clients. If you can, please donate here.
  • SAVIS of Halton: All counselling and programming is online - Resources are still needed, to donate please click here. For those who need immediate help please call their emergency line: 905-875-1555 or visit their website.
  • Halton Distress Centre: Still operating all services online and over the phone. Please visit their website for more information.
  • Oakville: 905-849-4541
  • Burlington: 905-681-1488
  • North Halton: 905-877-1211
  • Blood Services - Many people are still in need of blood at this time. To book an appointment to donate please visit their website or call (1-888-236-6283)
  • Kids Help Phone - Remains open and accessible to all Canadians – youth, in particular – 24/7 via phone and text uninterrupted. Have increased texting services to manage the bulk of the volume increase. Many volunteers are still needed, if you would like to volunteer your time please click here. If you are in need of their support please call: 1-800-668-6868 or visit their website for more information. 
  • Centre for Addiction And Mental Health Foundation - Creating a knowledge hub that will answer all common COVID-19 concerns and questions as well as tops for coping with stress and anxiety. Once this knowledge hub is launched we will be sure to share with you the link to access it. Please contact CAMH if you need help coping with anxiety while in isolation or quarantine here. 
APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN FOR THE CANADA EMERGENCY RENT SUBSIDY
(shared by the office of Pam Damoff, MP)
As Canadians face the second wave of COVID-19 and public health measures continue to evolve, we know that many employers are worried about being able to pay their rent. Our government is providing simple, easy-to-access commercial rent and mortgage support until 2021 to employers who have been affected by the pandemic.
This morning (November 23), the Canada Revenue Agency launched the portal for applications to a new emergency rent subsidy for small businesses that will go directly to tenants, not landlords. The new Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy (CERS) succeeds the Canada Commercial Rent Assistance (CECRA) and delivers direct, targeted and accessible rent support to qualifying organizations without the need to claim the assistance through landlords.
Under the new rent subsidy, qualified small businesses, charities and non-profits can apply to have up to 65% of their rent covered. Those impacted by a public health-mandated lockdown can also access additional Lockdown Support, a top-up subsidy of 25%. Combined with the rent assistance, this means that hard-hit businesses could receive up to 90% of their rent or property expenses in support. These new supports are retroactive to the beginning of October 2020.
The CRA has created a CERS online calculator to guide applicants through a step-by-step process to help them determine the subsidy amount they can claim, based on the information they enter. The CERS website includes detailed information about eligibility requirements, how payment periods are structured, and how the subsidy is calculated. 
Applicants can visit CRA login services to create a My Business Account or Represent a Client account and apply for the CERS now.
Our government will continue to do what it takes to support Canadians through this crisis. The new CERS and Lockdown Support will protect millions of jobs across the country and help our neighbourhood corner stores, local restaurants, and clothing boutiques keep their employees on the payroll and their doors open.
REVAMPED LOOSE-LEAF COLLECTION PROGRAM 2020 - NOW UNDERWAY
The City of Burlington’s revamped loose-leaf collection program, which started on November 9 is now underway. Currently, pickup is occurring on streets located South of the QEW. A reminder that Zones will only have ONE pickup this year. Crews will work through the week to collect the leaves. Leaves placed to the curb after your collection date will not be picked up if the crews have already completed your street. Any remaining leaves should be mulched or bagged for Halton Region’s Yard Waste pick-up.

Leaf Disposal Alternatives
If you do not wish to use or have missed your scheduled pickup under Burlington's loose leaf collection service, other disposal options are possible:
  • Mulch leaves to use in gardens, flowerbeds, or leave them on your yard.
  • Compost leaves in your backyard composter.
  • Deliver leaves to the Halton Waste Management Site in paper bags or in bulk for composting.

If you have feedback about this year's revamped pickup, please contact our office at ward1@burlington.ca , and note the words "Leaf Pickup" in the subject line.
TYANDAGA RECREATION POSSIBILITIES VIRTUAL TOWN HALLS & SURVEY - RECAP
The City of Burlington hosted 2 Virtual Town Halls (October 27 & November 4) as well as an online survey to gather resident feedback & input on what recreational ideas residents have to further enhance what already exists at Tyandaga. They wanted to know what residents value about this expansive greenspace and explore ideas to make it even more vibrant.  
Some fantastic suggestions we heard over the 2 live meetings included
  • Ice skating track in winter
  • Cross country ski rentals
  • Shorter golf course -12 or 9 holes
  • Practice facility for golfers - Range, and chipping greens
  • Improved tennis facility ( was not in scope for the exercise)
  • More hiking trails

Links to videos of the 2 town halls can be found by visiting getinvolvedburlington.ca/tyandaga.

Staff have now closed the survey, and are currently reviewing all input received. They will be bringing forward a report to Council in January 2021.

Tyandaga Golf Course is now closed for 2020, and I would like to take this opportunity to extend a HUGE thank you to staff at Tyandaga Golf Course for their hard work this season - they successfully implemented safety measures to ensure the wellbeing of staff and visitors and adapted as required to meet provincial guidelines. They worked hard to maintain this asset so that all of us could enjoy the outdoors through golf. Thank you for providing an opportunity for users to experience the beauty of Tyandaga this year.

Please note: The grounds will remain open for winter activities for community enjoyment including walking, tobogganing, frisbee golf and cross country skiing. For more information, please visit us on our website at www.tyandagagolf.com

I am open to receiving any further input from residents regarding Tyandaga's additional future uses - please email my office at ward1@burlington.ca, and note "Tyandaga Suggestion" in the subject line
RUDOLPH HAS ARRIVED IN WARD 1!
To celebrate the season, inspire both young and old, and bring a little whimsy to Ward 1, an industrious group of Aldershot friends have created the Rudolph in Aldershot Project!

Officially starting this Sunday November 29, 40 households (and counting) in and around Aldershot (spanning from Francis Road all the way to Spring Gardens Road) will be decorated with a prominent and beloved red-nosed reindeer!

The group began with just 10 purchased 3.5 foot Gemmy Standing Rudolphs (available at local retailers) and the event quickly expanded as more and more neighbours joined in the reindeer games! Supported by the City of Burlington's Community Support Fund Project, this promises to be a wonderful leap into the holiday season.

For those interested in joining, you can contact Stephanie, Kinga & Jen at aldershotrudolph@gmail.com, via Facebook at 'Rudolph In Aldershot' https://www.facebook.com/groups/2691362587769342 or on Instagram @rudolphinaldershot

The kick-off event is happening on Sunday November 29, 2020 from 3-5pm (Dowland Crescent) - there will also be an opportunity to donate new socks for the Socks for Hope Campaign. This community organization collects brand new socks that go directly to groups supporting friends living in shelters, on the streets, vulnerable families, students and breast cancer patients in and around Burlington. For more information on this campaign, please visit https://burlingtontaxi.com/community/socks-for-hope/

Do you have an idea for a way to enrich and connect your community through sport, recreation, art or culture? Check out the Community Support Fund page https://www.burlington.ca/en/live-and-play/community-support-fund.asp to see what resources are available to you!
NANCY ROWLAND APPOINTED AS NEW CEO OF ROYAL BOTANICAL GARDENS
BURLINGTON, ON: 24 November 2020 – The Board of Directors of Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) announced today, the selection of Nancy Rowland as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2021.

Nancy joins Royal Botanical Gardens after serving as General Manager of Ontario Place Corporation for the past four years, where she was responsible for leading the provincial landmark through a period of transition and increased use of a key public space.

Prior to working at Ontario Place, Nancy’s past roles have included Chief Operating Officer & Vice President Corporate Services and Operations at Ontario Science Centre, Director of Culture Agencies for Ministry of Tourism and Culture, and Director, Corporate Services at Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership Corporation.

"The Chief Executive Officer is responsible for the overall management and leadership of over 2,700 acres of cultivated gardens and environmentally sensitive nature sanctuaries that are Canada’s largest botanical garden,” said Cliff Carson, Chair, Board of Directors of Royal Botanical Gardens. "Nancy brings a wealth of relevant experience and measured approach to the challenges and opportunities facing Royal Botanical Gardens, and I look forward to working with her as we usher the Gardens into an exciting new era.”

“I am honoured and excited to be joining the team at Royal Botanical Gardens,” said Ms. Rowland. “As a significant tourist and cultural destination that plays a pivotal role in addressing the critical environmental pressures facing our planet, RBG is truly a one-of-a-kind organization. I am eager to start working with the Gardens’ stakeholders and supporters while fostering new relationships that will further realize RBG’s limitless potential.”

Ms. Rowland succeeds Mark Runciman who will be retiring on December 31, 2020 after 36 years with Royal Botanical Gardens. “I wish Nancy the best of luck moving into the CEO role during what is an exciting period in RBG history,” said Runciman. “At 80 years and counting, Royal Botanical Gardens is poised to become a world-leading cultural and environmental institution. I am proud to pass the torch knowing the amount of hard work and dedication that has brought us to this point.”

With Ms. Rowland at the helm, RBG will move forward with implementation of its 25-year Master Plan. The plan aims to position Royal Botanical Gardens as Canada’s leading environmental centre with world-class gardens, natural areas, programs, services and facilities that powerfully influence positive change in the way people interact with the planet. The plan received approval from RBG’s Board of Directors in May 2019.

The Board of Directors would like to thank Bedford Consulting Group for leading an extensive recruitment process and finding an excellent candidate who shares the mission, vision and values of RBG.
ALDERSHOT SCHOOL I-STEM PROGRAM SUCCESS!
Earlier this month my office was invited to "virtually" attend the Aldershot School's I-STEM Public Exhibition of student projects based on West Aldershot Creek Erosion.
The City of Burlington had been assessing the creek to address erosion concerns and produce detail design for erosion control works within the study area. (see: https://www.burlington.ca/en/services-for-you/west-aldershot-erosion-control-class-ea.asp)

On November 11th, several groups of Grade 9 students shared their innovative solutions to the erosion issue currently present in the creek. Students were tasked with considering the following:
  • Prevention of further erosion along West Aldershot Creek
  • Restoration and enhancement of aquatic and wildlife habitat
  • Protection of private property along the creek
  • Protection of existing infrastructure
  • Improving the overall quality of the West Aldershot Creek

Students from different I-STEM streams (Geography, Science, Math & Tech) met virtually and collaborated in order to assess the problem, determine alternatives and costs, and then choose their best option. Among the options presented were:
  • inflatable dams
  • thinning of the trees (to allow added sunlight and thus more vegetation growth)
  • concrete block retaining walls
  • planting of specific vegetation with long root systems,
  • and even, using discarded Christmas trees!

Overall it was an incredibly unique and entertaining learning experience, not only for the students involved but also for those who attended the exhibition. I am thankful to be included and look forward to next year's presentations!
If you have a unique learning opportunity you would like to share with my office, please contact us at ward1@burlington.ca
HYDRO ONE ANNOUNCES EMERGENCY VEGETATION WORK IN WARD 1
PLEASE SEE THE FOLLOWING MESSAGE FROM HYDRO ONE:
Hydro One is required to completed emergency vegetation work in a high-voltage transmission corridor running through Ward 1.
 
Hydro One is responsible for maintaining a safe distance between vegetation and transmission lines to ensure hydro corridors are safe for public use, to keep the lights on and to allow easy and safe access for our crews. This important work ensures that Hydro One can continue to provide a supply of safe and reliable electricity to the City of Burlington.
 
Typically, vegetation maintenance is completed every 6 years, and outside of that timeframe, our corridors are patrolled to ensure safe distances are maintained between power lines and vegetation. As part of a recently completed patrol of the transmission lines, our Forestry Technician has identified a number of dead trees throughout the high-voltage corridor near the King Rd Bruce trail. These trees will pose a risk to the electrical system and they need to be removed. To complete this work, our crews will be using manual equipment such as chainsaws and pruners, and support vehicles, including lift trucks and chippers, may also be onsite.
   
As this work unfolds, the health and safety of our customers, team members and the communities we serve remain our top priority. Hydro One is continuously evaluating the current health pandemic and adapting our work practices as required. That being said, as an essential service, we recognize the critical role we have in powering homes and businesses, as well as local distribution companies. We will continue to deliver on that commitment through this pandemic. 
Should you have any concerns about this work, please contact the ward 1 office at ward1@burlington.ca and note "Hydro One Announcement" in the subject line
GYPSY MOTH PROGRAM 2021 UPDATE
On November 23, Council voted to pass a recommendation from Roads Parks and Forestry staff to implement an expanded spray program in 2021 to address gypsy moths in Burlington.
As you may recall, earlier this year plans to spray for the 2020 season were curtailed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time of report preparation and budget request, the Emergency Order from the Province in place omitted pesticide application as an essential service. Through consultation with senior leadership, it was decided that the aerial program would not proceed in 2020.

Staff have therefore recommended spraying to the following areas in Ward 1:
  • City View Park
  • Kerncliff Park
  • LaSalle Park

I am very aware of the effect the Gypsy Moth has had on members of our community, as well as the concerns regarding the lack of spraying in 2020. I will continue to advocate on their behalf and will provide all updates I receive from staff. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact my office at ward1@burlington.ca and note "Gypsy Moth" in the subject line.
BURLINGTON RURAL BROADBAND SURVEY
Earlier this year, many rural Ward 1 (as well as Wards 3&6) participated in a Rural Broadband Internet Survey, hosted by the Rural Ward 6 Advisory Group. As a result, they have provided the information below on the results of the survey:

THE RESULTS WE RECEIVED:
  • We had a 20% response rate (160 of 800 households) – which is statistically significant
  • Twelve ISPs were identified and a household location map was plotted.
  • 80% of households did NOT achieve the MINIMUM download speed of 50 Mbps.
  • 73% of households did NOT achieve the MAXIMUM upload speed of 10 Mbps.
As you can see, there is a very real need for improved infrastructure in our community! We understand that this poor service is impacting our lives, especially during this pandemic.

OUR ACTIONS TO DATE:
  • We presented a summary of this information to an initial meeting of politicians and bureaucrats at the local, regional, provincial, and federal level – including Adam van Koeverdan, our federal Member of Parliament. We demonstrated that the government’s data with respect to our geographical area is mostly out-of-date and wrong. We are planning follow-up meetings to seek funding, which is apparently available. *See below some of the information used in this presentation.
  • We are collaborating with several Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to ask for their partnership in building or improving infrastructure in our community.

YOUR ACTIONS:
  • We are developing a Communication Plan which will include:
  • A new Facebook page, “Rural Halton Citizens for Broadband Group” which YOU can join to stay up-to-date with our progress and voice your comments.  
  • A regular Newsletter which YOU can sign up for, to receive regular updates.
  • A letter-writing campaign for YOU to write to local, regional, provincial and federal politicians.

For more information, please contact info.ruralward6@gmail.com. Our office will continue to share updates as they are made available
Ward 1 Construction Updates
Kiwanis Park Playground Improvements - Complete!
Earlier this month the Kiwanis Park Playground was reopened after construction to provide improvements based on Love My Playground surveys completed in 2018-2019
Park Renewal Highlights include:
  • Accessible playground access with paved paths and transition ramps
  • Accessible swings – single high back and multi-user raft
  • Additional seating at playground
  • Bike racks
  • Perimeter tree planting for increased shade
  • Improved drainage system in swale along court and playground edge
  • New wood fence and planting backdrop at basketball net
For more information on the Kiwanis Park Improvements, please visit https://www.burlington.ca/en/services-for-you/kiwanis-park-playground-improvements.asp
For more information on Love My Playground, please visit https://www.burlington.ca/en/services-for-you/Playgrounds-Have-Your-Say-Part-2.asp
Hydro One Maintenance Work - Beachway Park
Hydro One will be conducting a maintenance project at Beachway Park and Hamilton Beach this fall.
The proposed project involves the replacement of glass/ceramic insulators on the tower arms which insulates the electricity from reaching the tower itself. This is considered to be standard maintenance with the following equipment necessary: pickup trucks, utility terrain vehicles, Bronto Skylift, crane and bucket truck.

Construction is scheduled to begin in early November with all works completed by mid-December 2020. All towers must be cleared to a 15m radius during this work for the setup of equipment and safety. Hydro One staff will block the areas required prior to the start of work to ensure no public access within the work zone.

For more information regarding the specifics of the project, please contact Mr. James Dalton - James.Dalton@HydroOne.com.
Waterdown Road Advanced Works - November 2020 Project Update
Grindstone Creek Environmental Assessment - Completed
Ward 1 Development Updates
1085 Clearview - LPAT
(Update shared from https://mariannemeedward.ca/development/residents-receive-update-on-next-steps-in-1085-clearview-ave-development/)

On Nov. 17, myself and Ward 1 Councillor Kelvin Galbraith met virtually with residents of the Clearview/Queen Mary/St. Matthew’s Ave community to discuss the next steps in the proposed 1085 Clearview Ave development, and removing the Major Transit Station Area designation from their neighbourhood.

For those who want a record, or weren’t able to join us, the PowerPoint presentation is here: Clearview residents meeting

The next step in this process is a hearing at the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal, Dec. 2-4. Click the powerpoint for more details on that and opportunities to participate.

Once a decision has been made on the application, it will proceed to “site plan review”. Councillor Galbraith and myself will work with staff to “undelegate” this process (which normally doesn’t involve the public) so that residents can participate and share their views. As part of the planning process, the applicant can apply to change the address from Clearview to Masonry Court, which we support.

Once construction is imminent, a Construction Management Plan will be prepared and shared with residents, including contact information for any concerns.

Separately, Halton Region is undergoing a Municipal Comprehensive Review, including setting boundaries for Major Transit Stations Areas, including Aldershot GO. Council recently approved a motion asking the Region to exclude Clearview/Queen Mary/St. Matthew’s Ave from the Aldershot MTSA boundaries, to protect it from pressure to overdevelop. There will be opportunities for public input during that process, and we’ll alert the community at that time.

Together, we have come a long way to protect this neighbourhood from overdevelopment, originally contemplated at up to 20+ storeys, then 11, and now our goal to retain the low density character throughout. There is still a long road ahead, but we have made significant progress. As tough and time consuming as this is, and with the inevitable setbacks and discouragement along the way, you’ve stayed engaged. Thank you for that!

NOTE: As this development is only 50 meters from my personal residence, I had to declare a conflict of interest on the file and could not participate in council discussion or vote on the matter. There remains some opportunity for resident feedback on landscaping and buffers in addition to the construction management plan. 
The LPAT date has been moved to December 2-4 as a shorter hearing is required due to the limited issues outstanding on this file LPAT will ultimately decide on the approval and final decisions on this file. 
I do plan on assisting with this file moving forward in terms of a construction management plan that is satisfactory to the local residents and changing the address to Masonry Court so as not to have future traffic directed to the Clearview/St Mathews neighbourhoods.
Georgian Court - 610 Surrey Lane
Applicant Representative:
John Marotta, Senior Vice President, Development
QuadReal Property Group
Commerce Court West
199 Bay Street, Suite 4900
Toronto, ON, M5L1G2
416-673-7395

NOTE: we often get questions as to whether there is any activity on this file and can confirm that at this time the project remains on hold and there is no new information to share. Property owners continue to manage current residents.
For more information on this development, please visit https://www.burlington.ca/en/services-for-you/georgian-court-redevelopment.asp
We will update via our newsletter as soon as we have any further information to share.
To review all current Ward 1 development projects, including an option to subscribe to the page for updates, please visit https://www.burlington.ca/en/services-for-you/ward-one.asp
If there is a particular project you are interested and would like to receive updates on that development, please visit the individual development page and choose Subscribe
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: I arrived early to my appointment at the JBH Covid Testing Centre and was told parking was free, but my test was delayed and took longer than 20 minutes. When I went to leave, I was asked to pay for parking?
A: This question was asked to our office, and was relayed to Patient Relations at Joseph Brant Hospital. They have advises that they ask patients to arrive as close to their appointment times as possible, so staff can get them in and out within the 20 minute free timeframe. If for some reason the clinic is backed up, then we will provide the patients with a parking voucher - patients are asked to speak with the clinic nurse if this is the case and they will provide her with a voucher.

If you have ward 1 questions, please continue to forward these to tara.thorp@burlington.ca
News From City Hall
To bring happiness and joy to the neighbourhoods of Burlington this holiday season, the City of Burlington is launching Santa’s Holiday Magic Trail (SHMT) and asking you to join virtually for Story Time with Santa.
The City of Burlington is pleased to announce the hiring of Scott Hamilton as the Director of Capital Works Department.
Hamilton has been with the City’s Capital Works and Engineering Departments since 2009, holding various positions including Senior Engineer, Manager of Design and Construction and over the past year as Interim Director of Capital Works.
Prior to joining the City, Hamilton worked in consulting engineering in the design and construction of a variety of municipal infrastructure projects. Hamilton brings with him valuable industry and professional experience from both the private and public sectors.
The area around the Burlington Cenotaph to the north of City Hall will be named Veteran Square. The decision was made at Burlington’s City Council meeting on Nov. 23 and following a formal request from the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 60.
Chief Roche brings more than 24 years of progressive Fire service experience working in many facets of the emergency services. Most recently as Acting Fire Chief and prior to that Deputy Fire chief with the City of Burlington.  This has afforded Karen a thorough understanding of the challenges of managing modern fire services during times of economic, demographic and community risk-based issues, including her role in the Emergency Control Group (ECG) during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
NOTE: Changes to Park Washroom Facilities over Winter Months
There will be four park washrooms open this winter beginning November 1:
  • Lowville Park
  • LaSalle Park
  • Sherwood Park (west side at domes)
  • Spencer Smith (next to Discovery Landing)
Park washrooms will be open 9am-5pm, seven days a week until April. They will be closed on Christmas Day and New Years Day.

Lowville, LaSalle and Sherwood will be open/closed/disinfected by Parks staff reporting to RPF, while Spencer Smith will be operated by the staff working out of the restaurant there.
Should you have any concerns regarding the facilities that are listed as open and maintained by city staff, please contact RPF staff at rpf@burlington.ca
Changes to City of Burlington Heritage Celebrations
Each year, the Heritage Burlington Advisory Committee is proud to celebrate Burlington’s local history with a lineup of engaging and educational events.
In 2021, this celebration will kick off on Monday, August 2 with a community festival at Joseph Brant Museum and continue until August 8.
Updates about programming planned for 2021 will be shared on burlington.ca/burlheritage. If you have an idea or suggestion about an event you’d like to see, please email hb@burlington.ca.
The City of Burlington is launching the annual Neighbourhood Rink Program where neighbourhoods maintain outdoor community ice rinks at their local park this winter. Applications for the Neighbourhood Rink program are available now at burlington.ca/neighbourhoodrink and are due by Dec. 2, 2020.
Modifications have been made to the program to help slow the spread of COVID-19.
Calling all Art Lovers! Participate on a Community Public Art Jury 
Do you love art and your community? Help make your mark on the City of Burlington’s Public Art program by participating on a public art jury.
We are looking for local artists, creative professionals and residents to evaluate public art applications throughout the year. No experience is necessary! Each jury is made up of a mix of arts professionals and residents that represent a broad cross-section of the community. 
If you are interested in volunteering, please fill out a brief online application form at burlington.ca/publicart Applications will be open until Dec. 18, 2020.
Direct link to online application form: https://burlingtonpublicart.com/get-involved/jury-roster/ 
On Wednesday, Nov. 18, between 6 and 7:30 p.m ., the City of Burlington held another telephone town hall event to share information and answer resident questions about our community and COVID-19.
Burlington Economic Development is pleased to announce the launch of its newly redesigned website, InvestBurlington.ca.

With a focus on storytelling and user experience, the new website features dedicated pages for Burlington’s key sectors and easy to navigate tools and resources that provide all of the qualitative and quantitative information businesses and investors need to locate or grow a business in Burlington. The site also features a number of success stories and testimonials from businesses that call Burlington home.
At a Special Virtual Meeting of Burlington City Council on Monday, Nov. 2, Council approved the extension and amendments of the temporary patio bylaws to Oct. 31, 2021. Council also approved amendments to make sure winterized temporary covered patios or tents on private property are safe to protect both restaurant customers and staff. Bylaw, fire, snow clearance and zoning requirements need to be met to protect public health and safety in the event of heavy snowfall, ice or the need to evacuate a tent or building.
Get Involved Burlington!
The City of Burlington has an online engagement platform, Get Involved Burlington.
You can register for updates on city projects, participate in surveys, provide feedback, get engaged and have your say. The platform has tools including surveys, polls, mapping, discussion forums, storytelling and more. We look forward to hearing from you.
To stay up to date on all City of Burlington Media Releases, please visit https://bit.ly/2xxoVFr Be sure to subscribe to this page to be alerted of any new releases.
Ward 1 Community News & Resources
Aldershot Village Tree Lighting
The Village Tree is lit!
The tree will be lit for the holiday season and beyond so I encourage all Burlington residents to drive by and have a look - located in front of the Pluckers plaza on Plains road.  
I want to give a huge shout out to the Aldershot Village BIA for organizing this event each year; to all of the sponsors; to Santa and Mrs. Claus who were on hand to greet everyone, and to all those who took time out to donate food to the drive for Compassion Society of Halton. I am happy to report that we filled a small bus of food donations which speaks to the generosity of our local Aldershot residents
While this year's lighting was very different than the ones we have held in the past, I do hope it brings a little magic and Christmas cheer to all who took part, as well as those who drive past on their way down Plains Road.
To see the tree lighting video, please visit https://fb.watch/1_oGuVNobp/
Burlington Public Library Update
We’ve recently made some changes at our branches—and we anticipate there will be more while Halton is in a Provincially-declared Red Zone. When you’re planning a visit to the library, please first check our COVID-19 Service Update web page https://www.bpl.on.ca/serviceupdates or give us a call at 905. 639. 3611. We’ll keep you up-to-date about library services and any limitations on our social media and website, www.bpl.on.ca
Occupancy limits will continue to fluctuate as Provincial directives change, so please read and follow the visitor information posted at the branch entrance. However delightful it is to see you, we also urge everyone to keep your visit short. Staying inside the branch for leisure, work, or study is regretfully not permitted at this time. Library branches are open for limited browse & borrow, holds pick-up, and computers by appointment. With your continued cooperation, our community may be able to move out of the Red Zone at the end of the enforcement period.
We get that your patience may be in short supply right now, so… why wait? Next time you’re eager to read a blockbuster bestseller or hot title—check out the EXPRESS eBook and eAudiobook digital collections on OverDrive. With no holds and no waiting, simply read and return within the 7-day non-renewable loan period. And with your Burlington Public Library card number, you can borrow digital titles from the public libraries in Hamilton and Mississauga, too!
This Holiday Season, please consider donating to the Compassion Society's Jammies for Families Gift Card Campaign.
Due to COVID-19, the Society we will not be running the normal Jammies program this year for the Compassion Society.
Alternatively, they are asking for Gift Card donations. These Gift Cards go a really long way in helping the Compassion Society support those who need it most. They still need support to do all the great work they do.

From Aliya Khawari (Executive Director) of the Compassion Society, "The idea of gift cards is good because then we can actually purchase (jammies, socks and underwear) in whatever sizes and makes we need most. Boys, teens, men etc. are always in short supply versus tots and girl's things."

Your help is truly appreciated.
To donate directly, please visit https://www.canadahelps.org/en/giv3/97839
Aldershot Lions join in Lions National Centennial Project Celebration
Late last month, I was honoured to join with several member of the Aldershot Lions Club to commemorate the Lions Clubs of Canada 100th Anniversary by planting a tree in Bayshore Park.

The tree, a Europeon Larch, will eventually reach heights of up to 60 feet tall, and will be enjoyed by generations to come.

We would like to thank the ongoing work and generosity of the Lions Clubs, in particular the Aldershot Lions Club in supporting their communities, especially in the current pandemic situation. They have supported many local organizations including (but not limited to) The Compassion Society, the Carpenter Hospice, the Burlington Food Bank and more.

The Aldershot Lions operate a regularly scheduled "garage sale" at a storefront located at 484 Plains Road West. I include any upcoming dates in my newsletters and encourage all to stop in at some point to support this fantastic organization as they work to support those in need in our community.


PLEASE NOTE:
Please be advised that upcoming Aldershot Lions Club Garage Sales will be:
  • November 28
  • December 12
10:00 am to 2:00 pm, 484 Plains Road East
Free Little Libraries in Ward 1
We have received word of the growing number of Free Little Libraries in Ward 1 including ones on streets such as Shadeland Avenue, Botanical Drive, Fairview Place East, Enfield Road, Marley Road, Bayshore Boulevard, Spring Gardens Road, Eagle Drive and Finch Avenue.
This is a great resource, especially with its inherent social distancing. To find more Free Little Libraries, or to register your own, please visit https://littlefreelibrary.org/ourmap/ or https://llwc.wordpress.com/maps/
Happy Reading!
Ward 1 Community Links
Local Boards & Community Involvement
In addition to serving as Ward 1 City and Regional Councillor, I have the opportunity to sit on a few other local boards and committees:
Royal Botanical Gardens Board
As a member of the Board of Directors for Ward 1's own Royal Botanical Gardens, I meet with a team of dedicated individuals, aimed at serving Burlington and beyond.
We meet roughly every 3 months, with the Annual General Meeting occurring in June.
For more information on the Royal Botanical Gardens, please visit www.rbg.ca
Tourism Burlington Board
Tourism Burlington is overseen by a volunteer Board of Directors who represent various sectors of the Tourism, Industry and Business sectors in the City of Burlington. The Board meets September to November and February to May on the 3rd Thursday of the month, with the Annual General Meeting held in May of each year.
For more information on Tourism Burlington, please visit www.tourismburlington.com
Aldershot Village BIA (Business Improvement Area)

The Aldershot Business Improvement Area (ABIA) acts as a voice for Aldershot business while providing a professional approach to improving business opportunities for its members, enhancing its commercial profile and relationships with the community and the City of Burlington while building a strong local economic engine for Aldershot.

The ABIA identifies Aldershot as a distinct community for shopping, dining and doing business. Established in December 2004, we continue to partner with other Aldershot groups - The Aldershot Community Honour Roll, Partnering Aldershot, Alderfest Community Festival and others to build support for approximately 250 retailers and service professionals.
For more information on Aldershot Village BIA, please visit www.aldershotbia.com
Stay Connected
I have committed to sharing frequent updates via social media channels. I would love to connect with you there to be able to share day to day information. If there are specific items you would like me to address, send me a note!
You can find me at the links below.
Let's Keep In Touch
In compliance with Canada's Anti-Spam Legislation, recipients of this newsletter may unsubscribe at any time. Please feel free to forward this newsletter on to friends, family, neighbours and colleagues so that they can sign up as well.
Please add kelvin.galbraith@burlington.ca to your address book so that this correspondence will be sure to arrive in your inbox.
As always, you can contact my office at any time through email, telephone, social media or by attending neighbourhood and public open house meetings.
City of Burlington & Region of Halton
Ward 1 Councillor
905-335-7600 x7587
fax: 905-335-7881