Ground Breaking Event : A Priority Date for Frontenac Islands
Mayor Doyle is always open for questions about the township, in this instance, about the planned Seniors Apartment Project on Wolfe Island. “I think the biggest thing coming up at this time is the ‘ground breaking ‘ event for the project to be held on Friday May 5th,” he said. “ Mr. John Weatheral (Scarthingmoor Farms) who donated the land for the 5 unit apartment project will join us when he arrives off the 2 pm ferry at the WI Community Hall (behind the Town Hall) for some discussion, and up dating about the project. As well, for a meet and greet of the Frontenac County representatives, including key staff members, the WI Senior project committee members, and Wemp and Smith Construction company representatives.”
Mayor Doyle added that a full sized layout of a one bedroom unit will be outlined in tape on the floor of the newly upgraded WI Community Hall, offering an opportunity for everyone to sense the size of the planned accessible apartments. “We will then proceed to the site of the project at the south end of Division, street close to the WI Community Medical Clinic, WI Emergency Services and the Community Centre grounds for the ceremonial ground breaking. We hope that any members of the public who want an update and status report on this project will join us.”
FYI.. Frontenac County Council chose senior housing as the first of 3 projects to focus on over a five year period, to build one five unit seniors apartment facility in each of the four townships in Frontenac County. County Council approved the hiring of a consultant to assist in moving forward and a common business plan was developed for use in each of North, South, Central and Frontenac Islands Townships.. Public meetings were held throughout Frontenac County to determine need, and Marysville was chosen for a first seniors project under the auspices of Frontenac County.
2. Ferry line up problems.: A majority of Islanders are following the ferry lineup signage rules posted last year to assist in loading the ferry and keep it on the hourly schedule according to Mayor Doyle, but there are still those who do not. “Currently these by far are the issue I receive the most complaints about.” He listed for instance, those Not keeping the lineup tight, those butting in from the west resulting in others at the east end already in the lineup not getting on the ferry, those who wait for the ferry to leave, then park anywhere in the lineup and in spots where those coming up behind can't see the empty space in front of the car parked in violation of the township by-law, and thus que up behind it. “Last week a vehicle park at the corner in front of the Post Office and everyone queued up behind that car, while there were no cars at all on the dock” , the Mayor said . As a result of these ferry line up issues in the village there is a growing demand by many WI residents to have the ferry run from the Dawson Pont dock all year round, because it is generally always on time, and fair for all. And speaking of docks, the next MTO Ferry Docking EA PIC (Public Information Centre ) will likely be held in early June (?) rather than in May.

3. Mayor Doyle clarified a statement he made, contained in a Whig Standard article, about extended funding for the Frontenac Paramedicine pilot project started 3 years ago. The quote read, “Mayor Doyle said he was concerned municipal funding of health-care programs could amount to ‘downloading by stealth’ by the provincial government.” Doyle explained when asked that if these services are provided at the Hospital, or by a Doctor's office, or by other health care professionals, the province covers 100% of the cost through OHIP. The way the Paramedic funding formula works the municipalities pay for 50% of the costs, “so my point was if we are not careful and ensure that the Province covers 100% of the Paramedicine cost the Municipalities once again would get current Provincial costs downloaded to local property tax payers.” Frontenac County council supported the original project, providing $5,600 per year in funding..

Around Town : **Great work by WI’s Friends of the Feral Cats : The group has been working hard and is pleased to report that they have now neutered and vaccinated over 210 feral cats. They are also thrilled to have recently developed a relationship with Kingston Animal Rescue and then Southpaw Cat Café, and have through them, ‘rehomed’ several of Wolfe Island cats. Please watch for, and support, their fundraising activities this summer and fall – “We need the support of the community to maintain the success we have had to date.” ** WI Bakery Now Open May 1st, and also marks the opening of Horne’s Ferry. It provides the. international border crossing of the St. Lawrence Seaway from Horne’s Point (Point Alexandria)Wolfe Island to Cape Vincent NY (USA) for the season. Really a unique experience as the MV Wm. Darrel with a twelve car capacity, carries passengers and vehicles to their destination. This is not a free ferry.

Coming Events:** 6 Week Spring Yoga Session at Shanti Retreat, Monday May 8th - Monday June 19th, (excluding May long weekend) 7:30 - 8:45 pm. All levels, beginners welcome! $115 for pre-registration or $20 per class drop in ** Community Yard Sale, Saturday & Sunday May 20-21, 9 AM to 4 PM, New & Used Items Rain or Shine, 1263 HWY 96 EAST (Claire’s property)Wolfe Island, left off the ferry.

How Do We See Ourselves —Now?
Planning is underway for an official plan review with public meetings, to be held in June in the Frontenac Islands one in the Howe Island ward and the other in the Wolfe Island ward, to hear comments from residents ‘specifically’ with regard to the possibility of allowing more residential lots to be created in the rural areas of the township. This resolution came following the introduction of a report prepared by Frontenac County Planner Gallivan concerning “Official Plan Policy – Restriction of Severances in Rural Areas”. A more detailed analysis is needed to determine the kinds of changes that might occur, and their impact on the 1985 dated rule limiting three lots per parcel of land. As previously stated (The Heritage, April 19) Howe Island Councilor, Deputy Mayor Natalie Nossal, asked if the meetings could be ward specific with separate policies based on what comes from the meetings.

All of which is reminiscent of two meetings held in April of 2008, one on Howe Island and the other on Wolfe Island, the first steps in the Frontenac Islands’ “Official Plan Review,” their purpose, to introduce the process and to identify the community’s involvement in it. (Also to introduce Tunnock Consulting, township planners at the time).
It is interesting to note that the OP process includes a research phase to develop a comprehensive community profile. Based on the same 10 questions presented at those meetings which related to: sustainability, rate of growth, quality of life, viable/marketable uses of agricultural lands/ shoreline development/ access/ protection, Marysville, limits to growth; Howe Island attributes and disadvantages; suitable/compatible home based businesses; private road development benefits/downfalls; cultural heritage/ historical sites and alternative energy, two different profiles emerged. And drawing from that 2008 article this is what Howe and Wolfe Islands came up with:

“Howe Island wants its flavour and independence sustained. It wants a community hub, larger (3 acre) lots, a dependable faster (free) ferry; island growth restricted by maintaining resource protection. Attributes are two ferries, a low crime rate, non intrusive home based businesses. They believe their identity is diluted by attachment to Wolfe Island, concerned about the poor farming environment, have health and safety concerns about wind power but wonder what the amenities agreement means for them. They have differing opinions about island roads, they want high speed internet, believe in growing your own food, market days. and cultural heritage and citizen participation.”

“Wolfe Island wants sustainability, well managed growth and age friendly quality of life and needs met. (health, seniors , safety, clean water, self sufficiency, environmental protection, waste disposal, multiuse community centre, etc.), as well as dependable ferry transportation, public transportation on the island, new businesses through encouraging different land uses and growth for Marysville dependent on municipal services (water-sewer).”
“Both communities, Howe and Wolfe, questioned the appropriateness of the extensive agricultural land use designation and their inability to sever. They saw the need for more rural designation and smaller farming land plot sizes (developing food movement, hobby farms etc.) as well as shore line management with public access to the water as important issues.”

Has anything changed since 2008? How Do islanders feel about allowing more residential lots to be created in the rural areas of the township? All to be given careful consideration prior to any change being introduced. Watch for meeting dates on the Frontenac Islands website. www.municipality.frontenacislands.on.ca.

Around Town: 1. ** Help us Celebrate the Township of Frontenac Islands Seniors Apartments Groundbreaking Ceremony. It will be at 26 Division St. Wolfe Island on May 5th, 2017 at 2:30 pm. The project that will provide five modern accessible apartments for seniors located close to Marysville amenities. Join Frontenac Islands Council and staff, Frontenac County Council and Staff, special Guest John Weatherall, (Scarthingmoor Farms), Seniors Housing Board Representatives, & General Contractors, Wemp and Smith Construction Limited.
2 . Frontenac County is looking for input from residents and businesses, tourist operators, interested citizens for ways to increase overnight stays in the County all year. Frontenac County and MDB Insight Consulting will host a workshop for Frontenac Islands on Wolfe Island Mon. May 1, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. WI Community Hall 26 Division Street. Registration: https://accommodationsonfrontenacislands.eventbrite.ca
3. THE WI HISTORICAL SOCIETY invites you to attend ‘THE LADIES IN SIR JOHN A.'S LIFE’ , an afternoon with Sir John A. and Lady Agnes Macdonald, played by Brian & Renee Porter, Sunday, APRIL 30th at 1:30 PM, WI United Church Hall. A slide show, accompanied by a series of skits designed to take you back to Confederation -150 years ago.
4. Plans are under way for a very busy July 1st weekend that includes the annual Canada Day Breakfast July 1, the 37th annual Wolfe Island 5-10k Road Race July 2nd, and the 3rd annual Wolfe Island Round Up…. July 1-2nd . Watch for details…
Coming Events: Rummage Sale WI United Church Hall Saturday June 3rd, 2017, 9AM to 2PM No electronics or large furniture. Contact Diane 385-2411 or Linda 365-2665.

A group of Howe Island Fire Fighters (21), led by Chief Mike Quinn, filed into the Howe Island’s municipal council chamber as Frontenac Islands April council meeting began. Addressing Council, Chief Quinn introduced the department’s Fire Fighters Association president and executive officer, Joe Beattie, to make a presentation.. “It gives me great pleasure present this cheque for $6,500 to the township,”Beattie said. “ It is the result of our fund raising activity for medical and safety equipment for our boat ‘ Marine 111’ last June . The community responded so well , as they always do.” Mayor Doyle accepted the cheque to be used as requested.
Frontenac County Planner Joe Gallivan was on hand to speak to the application for a severance of a piece of property (lot 10, Concession North Range, (North Shore Road) on Howe Island. Comments were heard from the owners of the property, and the abutting land owner. The severance application was approved . Galivan was also there to introduce a report requested by council concerning Official Plan Policy. The ‘Restriction of Severances in Rural Areas’ and the possibility of public meetings to consider allowing more residential lots in rural areas of the township. The report outlines existing policy as identified in the official plan (sec.6.3). Before amalgamation (1998) Howe Island did not have an OP. Wolfe Island did, but had no policies with regard to severances on a land holding. It is understood that the current policy (Jan. 1, 1985) that allows 3 severances is based on a Frontenac County Land Division approach. Planner Gallivan believes that before a public meeting can be held, more analysis is required to determine what might be the result of amending the 3 lot per parcel. “The provincial policy statement encourages growth in the hamlet areas with all decisions based on good planning,” he said. Using the County GIS services an approximate number of 1 to 3 acre lots available, that comply with sec 6.3 and other criteria were identified. Using MPAC data, Howe Island ward has 35 lots, with Wolfe Island 45 and Simcoe 5.

Noting the differences in the island wards, Howe and Wolfe, Deputy Mayor Natalie Nossal asked ”Can the meetings be ward specific” in order to develop separate policies based on the information and comments of citizens. Howe Island resident Bill Robinson could see no need for any change based on growth projections and ferry limitations. Another person had no quarrel with the 35 number of vacant lots on Howe. While another noted , “on Howe it’s about protecting agricultural land.” A Wolfe Islander on the other hand is unhappy with the 1985 restriction which prevents a 2nd home being built on 2 acre lot because the overall property had 3 severances already. Councillor Springgay sees increased development on Wolfe Island as a positive and assist in attracting and keeping young families, as well as building up school enrollment. Planner Gallivan suggested that if there are no appeals to the process as it proceeds through the summer, it might receive late fall approval. Watch for further information and notice of meeting dates.

FYI A Secondary Plan for Marysville (WI Ward) is to be undertaken to determine expected island growth and development with increased ferry service. A secondary plan provides specific policies for areas identified within an Official Plan as requiring more detailed direction.

Budget Approval: The result of all that effort by the staff, with earlier input by those who submitted funding requests (groups, associations, etc.), for budget year 2017, the increases for both wards is a 2.99% to the mill rate. The mill rate is the charge by $1,000 assessment on individual properties. This is all based on the total assessment, which actually decreased from the prior year, as many who have received MPAC notices will know. As Mayor Doyle completed the reading of the Frontenac Islands 2017 bylaw to levy taxes, which had been set to increase to 3.7% (1.57%for policing) for Howe, and 3.67 %,(2.01% for policing) for Wolfe, he announced that they had over budgeted for the education charge. “What should we do with the extra $45,000, take it out and lower rate or put it in reserves, or do a combination of both.?” Council chose the 3rd option, to reduce the tax rate on Howe to 2.98% with $6,000 for reserves, and 2.99% with $12,000 for reserves on Wolfe Island.

The township formalized an agreement with WI Music Festival 2017 coordinator Virginia Clark, as outlined in the Events bylaw including use of the Community Centre grounds August 10th through to August 13th. She will meet with MTO to mitigate some of the challenges involving ferry traffic particularly on the ‘going home’ commuter run on August 11th. Other elements of the festival related to policing, waste, recycling volumes, etc. will be worked out with township staff.

In other business; 1. A “Canada 150” committee has been formed to come up with an event. More to follow at May council meeting 2. An Accommodation Review meeting with Frontenac County’s Richard Allen will be held May 1st at Community Hall. Time to be determined.. 3. The Howe Island Ward newsletter to be released soon. 4. More Council news next time.

On this day, April 6th, our youngest grandson Daniel (16) is on his way to France with classmates from École Secondaire Catholique Marie-Rivier in Kingston, to attend commemorative events being held at the Canadian National Vimy Memorial on April 9, 2017 to mark the 100th anniversary of the First World War and the Battle of Vimy Ridge. He will be one of thousands of young Canadians who will be there to learn more about Canada’s military history. We tend to forget (or want to forget) that war is about the young.

Daniel goes with family stories about his great grandfather from Port Arthur who volunteered, joining the army (Little Black Devils) in 1914 departing for Europe, and who at age 22 was gassed at the 2nd Battle of Ypres, survived and taken as a prisoner of war for 3 years. He returned to Canada in 1919 after the end of the war. He said little or nothing about his experience for years. Daniel has also heard the stories of other relatives on both sides of the family who served in the military at that time or during the 2nd World War, the Korean War, and in in the military, as does his brother Will (RCAF).

But it is the stories of the bravery of the thousands of young Canadians, who volunteered to serve their county, and who fought at Vimy Ridge that has captured the imagination of Canadian youth. And they go to France knowing also about the losses of many Canadians and their bravery at the 2nd Battle of Ypres, Flanders Fields, the Somme, Hill 70, Passchendaele, the Hindenburg Line, and others. They know about the 100 days in 1918 leading to Mons and the Armistice in November 1918. They go to honour and remember a time in Canada’s history that can not, must not, be forgotten. We try to forget that war is about the young.

Wolfe Island does not have a War Memorial, per say. Nor was Remembrance Day officially acknowledged on the island until 1994 when a plaque was erected that expresses worthy sentiments regarding the service of island citizens to their county in the military in times of war and peace. A First Remembrance Day event was held at the WI Town Hall that year. And one has been held every year since then. First organized by the Women’s Institutes and the CWL, the service is ecumenical in nature, included the island’s school children, and was hosted by CAO Terry O’Shea on behalf of the township. Simple in its presentation, Remembrance Day has become an important occasion for the community to come together along with Officer Cadets from RMC/CMR, and members of CFB Kinston. Now it is organized by community representatives, associations and individuals along with the township. Like the Vimy Anniversary, it is about remembering.

On Remembrance Day 2003, WI resident (now Brig. General) David Paterson, spoke of researching the lives of six island casualties of war whose names he had heard read at the service in 1999, and of visiting four of the six memorials and graves of the men in Europe. They were: John Rogers killed in 1915 at the Second Battle of Ypres; also Arden McRae and Edward Walters; and 2nd World War casualties Millard Horne who died in a Lancaster Bomber in 1945; Earl Joslin, whose boat was machine gunned in Germany in 1945. Over the years Patterson provided more information about WI born Irwin Kelly, who died at the age of 21 at the Hindenburg line during the last days of World War 1 ; and of Frank Payne an island airman who died in an air campaign leading up to Operation Husky in 1943 -recorded as missing on an RAF Memorial in Malta. And in 1915 came news concerning Frederick Leonard Davis, born on WI and farmed in Joyceville, with the PPCLI and struck down in action near Cambrai, October 10 1918, and buried one month before the war ended. And finally in 2016 on Remembrance Day, Brig. General Patterson spoke of WI’s John Alexander Rogers, who enlisted in 1914 with the 2nd Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force, and was killed (no known grave) on April 22nd 1915 at Ypres.

Vimy Ridge has been described as “a symbol of Canadian identity and history, a coming of age.“ The beauty, the sacredness,and the sadness of the memorial and the horror of the numbers who died there will surely remain with the youth who visit. It is they who must keep it alive. It is they who will tell the stories . And Remembrance Day still offers us all a time to remember “Lest we forget.”

Around Town:** Massage Therapy Clinic Now Open! Location: 1188A Main Street Please Call/Text Judy Gerber-van Vliet, RMT or Brooke MacDonald, RMT to book an appointment! Judy – 613-770-1803 (Monday, Thursday, Saturday) Brooke – 613-770-0720 (Tuesday). **

Coming events: Easter Egg Hunt, Communjty Centre Grounds. Sat. Apri1 15th, 11:15 am Ages – Infants to 12
(Children will be separated into 3 age categories)Bring your own basket to collect eggs