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by Margaret Knott
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Margaret Knott's What's New on Frontenac Islands articles appear with the kind permission of the The Kingston Heritage Newspaper.

December 29, 2016
A Brief Year End Review of Frontenac Islands 2016

Christmas 2016 has come and gone, leaving behind wonderful memories to think of as the winter progresses. At the same time, townships and cities, along with the newspapers are looking back on the highlights that filled 2016, in anticipation of what may happen in 2017. The Township of Frontenac Islands is no different. Each of its major islands, Wolfe and Howe, can certainly look back over areas of concern that came up during the year, as well as at the good things that have been accomplished, and continue to set goals for the future.
At the beginning of 2016 for instance, the “Preliminary Design and Class EA for the WI Ferry and Docking Improvements,” presently in the hands of Morrison Hershfield Limited, was underway looking for community input. To date there have been two public open houses. From the time of the first meeting to the second, dock changes were identified and have since been incorporated into drawings presented for public scrutiny at the 2nd. The new larger 75 car ferry proposed for Wolfe Island, will be similar to the Wolfe Islander III in design. All docks improvements proposed will accommodate all the ferries in the fleet . Hard to imagine that the Wolfe Islander III celebrated her 40th year of service to Wolfe Island on February 2016, having arrived from Thunder Bay in 1976. MPP Kiwala joined that celebration held at the MTO Wolfe Island Terminal in Kingston.
Feb. 22, 2016 marked a historic day for Wolfe and Simcoe Islands as after 42 years the Wolfe Island Volunteer Ambulance Service changed from a volunteer operation to a unionized one provided by Frontenac County Paramedic Services. The Wolfe Island service was the last of its kind in Ontario, once operated completely by volunteers 24 hours a day. The paramedics also provide a monthly wellness clinic.
Also in February MPP Kiwala announced that the Province will invest in the purchase of a new ferry for Amherst Island similar in design to the Wolfe Islander III (roll on, roll off) as early as 2018 ensuring a back-up vessel for the Eastern Region (as promised by the Minister Del Duca). The contract for the new Amherst dock has been issued and work should begin soon.
Frontenac Islands Wolfe Island Ward set up a Wolfe Island Ferry Committee, as a committee of council, made up of the Mayor, a councillor and 3 community members, and more as required. Its purpose is to assist in dealing with the province regarding improvements to the Wolfe Island ferry system to/from Kingston.
Frontenac Islands held a marathon of 3 public meetings in March, a final budget meeting, a special meeting with County Planner Joe Gallivan regarding unopened road allowances, and the regular March meeting of council.
Sadly the WI Music Festival was cancelled for 2016, due to low attendance the previous year when the Wolfe Islander was out of service. The WI Historical Society was presented with the Scadding Award of Excellence by the Ontario Historical Society for their contribution to the field of history.
In April Frontenac Islands Council and the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) Team for a Wolfe Island Ferry and Docking Improvements study met once again for a ferry& docking improvements update.
The 2016 budget passed with a 2.8% tax increase on Wolfe Island and 2.5 % on Howe. (Over four years the OPP contract increase is from $100,000 to $400,000 requiring a 4% increase in township taxes over all, until fully implemented.)
In keeping with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) which set out a goal of making Ontario accessible by 2025, Frontenac Islands council has begun to focus on the needs of the disabled with Community Hall ramp access ,washroom, sidewalk improvements.
During the subsequent months any number of issues were dealt with and, as always in small rural communities, most of the issues relate to administration and public works, primarily roads, their maintenance, grass cutting, tree trimming, removal, new signage, setting speed limits, and passing by-laws. Certain issues on Howe Island are under review. The senior apartment project moves steadily forward. A new road was constructed. There is a new web site… The rink is fully operational. The land fill site is now a Transfer Site. The Township begins budget meetings in January

Around Town: Unfortunately on Christmas Eve, following the early Saturday Christmas Eve Mass, there was a fire at Sacred Heart of Mary Church on Wolfe Island which was confined to the Sacristy. Pastor Fr. Raymond deSouza discovered the remains of the fire, which had melted a plastic water pipe and the pouring water pouring that killed the fire, when he came into the church to prepare for Midnight Mass. The water caused damage in one part of the sacristy as well as much smoke damage to it, the sanctuary and the main body of the beautiful church, necessitating the cancellation of Midnight Mass. The Wolfe Island Fire Department attended.

Posted by M Knott at 11:50 AM
December 22, 2016
Times Have Changed Over the Years…

I’ve been thinking much about Christmas. As I get older, it seems the stories of my childhood are more easily remembered than they used to be. Although I must admit there is no one out there that I can ask for verification. What I remember being told by my parents is that they travelled from Germany, at the ages of 33 and 32 respectively., just recently married, and on there way first to Toronto and Waterloo, where my father was to complete studies for ministry in the Evangelical Lutheran Church, which he had begun at a university in Germany. One could say my parents came with very little, as VISITORS to Canada . After which time, according to my mother their intent was to return “home” to Sweden, my father’s birthplace and his home. My older, only brother and I were born in Canada.
My father by then was ministering to small diverse European communities in western Canada because of his facility with languages. My parents barely survived the depression of the 1930’s, not unusual I suspect, for clergy dependant upon the financial situations of those they served.. who also had nothing. They eventually made their way back to eastern Canada with the intent of returning home. But with the threat of war looming, they made the decision to remain in Canada for the sake of their Canadian born children. And, on a more practical level, they did not have the money to do otherwise. By that time, like everyone else, my father was trying to find work wherever he could, as teacher, labourer, farm hand, statistician, clergyman…. Interesting to note. My father never returned to Sweden. My mother visited her family in Germany only once when in her 70’s. Once they arrived in Canada, like my father, she never heard the voice of her parents again.
As young children, my brother and I spoke German and Swedish at home. My father had a good command of English and a number of other languages. My mother eventually spoke English with a great deal of ease and was often asked, as I remember it, if she came from the British Isles. During the war years she was identified as an “foreign alien” and was obliged to “sign in.” How thrilled she was many years later when she was identified as a Naturalized British Subject and, still later, identified as a Canadian Citizen.
What I do remember of my early Christmases is that they were a lonely time. No friends really , no relatives, and parents filled with concern, not only for family members in Europe, but for our own survival as a family as well. Jobs were hard to come by, money very scarce, age a detriment, never a pension, no health care, like so many others then.
I remember thinking that our Christmas was so holy, maybe too holy. But Advent was such a special time with candles and Jesse trees and symbols and signs all leading to “The Nativity”, how could we be anything other than happy. My mother’s incredible singing voice followed my father’s prayer at dinner each evening during those days of preparation to Christmas Eve when a tree was brought in and simply decorated. The door was closed and silence filled our tiny apartment as we waited for midnight to come…, the Nativity Crèche awaiting a baby. The door was opened with my mother singing ‘Stille Nacht Heilige Nacht’ , followed by my father reading the Christmas Gospel and blessing us, the sharing of a small gift, generally of my mother’s making, happened, a used book, an orange, and the sharing a glass of what was called children’s wine together. We listened to Midnight Mass from somewhere on the radio and searched for music (along with the news) coming from Europe. . . I remember those Christmases, just as my husband Walter remembers his childhood Christmases.… of similar years. But at this moment, as I reminisce, I wait for our own family to arrive for a rushed visit to Wolfe Island…. to celebrate Christmas with us, sharing in our traditions bringing with them their own. My wish is for the residents of Frontenac Islands, our friends and neighbours, that Peace and Joy fill your days during this Christmas Season, and for a Happy New Year 2017 to all.
Around Town: Visit the Wolfe Island Community Centre Facebook website for Holiday Rink Schedules and Programs. And the Frontenac Islands web site (frontenacislands.ca) for news and events. Also wolfeisland.com

Posted by M Knott at 11:45 AM
December 14, 2016
Frontenac Islands Short & Sweet December Meeting

It did not take very long for Frontenac Islands Mayor Denis Doyle and members of council to move through the agenda of their December meeting, held this month on Howe Island. There was a rather festive feeling to the evening with everyone perhaps anticipating the coming days of Christmas, and just wanting to get home after what has already been a busy month with meetings, and more pending for them all, staff and councillor members alike.
The meeting dealt with administrative issues, and consolidating bylaws that arose in both CAO Plumley’s Actions Pending report, and that of Public Works Manager Rob Dillabaugh. These were; the naming and renaming of highways, streets, roads, private roads in the township, another was to regulate the prescribed rate of speed for motor vehicles on certain township roads, and yet another to provide for the erection of ‘Stop’ signs and ‘Yield’ signs at intersections.
A road name change process is underway for a road on Simcoe Island where 50% have as their address School House Lane, and the other half have Eves’ Lane. It seems that School House Lane is the technically correct address and the changes will be made. Another is for Howe Island Drive, often referred to as County Road #22 and 16A (and both were correct).
A few months ago a Wolfe Island citizen approached council with a request to reduce the speed limit on the Front Road (#96) from 80 km to 60 km from Simcoe Ferry Road to 1 km East of 3rd Line Road. A later report offered 3 options for council to consider: speed 80 to 60 km; or speed 70 km most of the way to village; or no change. “You have to be very careful when lowering a speed limit” Public Works Manager Rob Dillabaugh said. “With 70 km you keep within your vehicle count and remain as a Class 4. Drop it to a class 5 and lower classifications greatly affect possible funding ( for road rehabilitation, asphalt, rebuilding etc.) My recommendation is to be very careful to stay within levels. If we don’t the Ministry will not look favourably at funding. The one fund out there is called Top Up and changes can reduce your chances. If we go 70 km I agree with Councillor Grant that we go as far on Front Road as we can before the speed sign changes to 40 km into the village,” Mayor Doyle said “If we don’t the ministry will not consider funding in the future.” Council agreed with a fixed 70 km although Councillor Springgay is not convinced drivers will actually slow down or that the police would enforce it. She believes they might at 60 km. Interesting to note the speed going out of Marysville to the turn to Dawson Point is 60 km based on load. Springgay’s concern for a new welcoming sign at WI’s Dawson Point, will be added to the 2017 budget deliberations. And ‘Stop’ and ‘Yield’ signs will be erected at intersections.
Future Planning: Council received updates to the Municipal Elections Act and Voting Method, for the 2018 Election. As in the past election ranked ballots will not be adopted by Frontenac Islands. Council once again authorized internet/telephone voting for the 2018 election. CAO Plumley will prepare the bylaw for the January 9, 2017 meeting of council. Prior to the election a joint services request for quotations for internet and telephone voting will be drafted to include all Municipalities in Frontenac County who wish to do the same.
In Other Business: 1 . As of January 1st, 2017 the Howe Island (foot) Township ferry will commence operating from 6:30 am to 12:00 pm every day of the week. 2. A request for two casual on-call snowplough operators for the Wolfe Island ward will be posted. 3. Council will issue a Christmas bonus, for full time ($100) and part time ($50), employees. 4 . Council extended the appointment of Ben Woodman as Operator/Custodian of the Wolfe Island Community Centre for 2016-2017. 5. Administrative Offices on Howe on Wolfe Island will be closed from Dec. 24th to Jan. 3, 2017. The extended time period is accommodated through saved time and vacation time as well as the 3 statutory holidays. 6. Council supported an Association of Municipalities resolution asking that the federal government provide long-term predictable funding in its phase 2 programs for municipal governments, and added that Frontenac Islands also call on the federal government to change incremental requirements in phase 2 to recognize that that the municipal government asset management plan in Ontario meets a municipal incremental infrastructure requirement.
Inviting comments from the public: W. Knott once again commented on the dangers of Road # 7051 to Dawson Point. He also brought to council’s attention the International Joint Commission’s new water regulation (Plan 2014) which could take effect by Jan. 1st and allow the lake's water level to rise about 2.4 inches above the present high-water and drop it about 6 inches below its previous regulation. From the other residents present council Council received thanks for their hard work and Best Wishes for Christmas and the New Year 2017.
Around Town: The WI Rink is now open. Check Out the WI Community Centre on Face Book for WI Rink hours and events. Also the Township’s web site frontenacislands.ca , program and rental dates are posted… along with schedule changes etc.

Posted by M Knott at 11:41 AM
December 08, 2016
Frontenac Islands Prepares for 2017 Budget Deliberations

In preparation for their 2017 Budget deliberations, Frontenac Islands Council members and staff once again undertook a priority setting exercise. Some might call it establishing a ‘wish list’ while ‘dreaming in technicolour’. And for sure there was a little of that, but for the most part the priorities revolved around areas of importance, roads, ferries, waste, recreation, and community concerns (health, children, seniors etc.) to the citizens of Frontenac Islands, all listed under a series of headings.
The initial first go around by the mayor and the four council members included such things as completion of roadside brush clearing, a new building at WI’s Transfer Station, -rebuilding of the HI foot ferry deck, -community development and -Simcoe Island ferry docks. This first list also included issues/needs from Administration and Public Works. The initial exercise led to a further seven listings by council which were eventually noted under headings. The headings included: Accessibility, Economic Development, Planning, Community Support , Ferry(s), Public Works, & Administration. Then they determined when they could undertake the projects, specifically first, those doable in 2017, second those in 2018-19 and third, those three years and longer away because of their scope and size.
Council also identified all those projects that would have a budgeting effect particularly in 2017 allowing staff the time to work up numbers in advance of the budget meetings. This is a necessary process in all organizations to look at short and long term priorities, prioritize them into categories and then come up with a budget. It certainly does not mean that all projects can be met, primarily because of what the tax impact would be on the tax payer, the citizens of Frontenac Islands . It was interesting to note the increasing interest for accessibility with efforts underway by the township to provide an accessible washroom at the WI community Hall, behind the WI Town Hall, as well as a permanent ramp to access the building from Division Street in Marysville.
An interesting discussion took place within the Economic Planning category, that focused on present island businesses and developing businesses, for instance the micro brewery and on possible new businesses in keeping with the agricultural nature of the islands, maybe raising goats for milk? Who knows what could come of that ? The Howe Island foot ferry, the Simcoe docks and ferry, bubbler systems , how much gravel for roads, the Seniors project, a helipad, new equipment, policing, parking, ,Spit Head Road, the dangers of Road #7051 to Dawson Point, a lagoon, water, building refurbishment, and any number of other items came up as part of the planning for the 2017 budget meeting. Lots to think about. The first 2017 Frontenac Islands budget meeting takes place Jan. 4, 2017 at 1 pm at the Wolfe Island Town Hall.
Wolfe Island comes alive around Christmas… That’s right. First it’s with the Christmas Decorations that suddenly appear in Marysville. Then its more decorations and lights in the village and across the island joining with the red wind tower lights and those on the radio tower. The island churches prepare for Christmas, the Birth of Christ, through the four Sundays of Advent. And during those four weeks many lovely events happen. There was the Ecumenical Carol service this year, held at the WI United Church. School events take place as they do in most small communities. A wonderful vendors’ market of mostly handmade goods for personal giving were sold, many with profits going to one special charity or another. And, of course, Santa came to town in time for his own Santa Clause parade on the island. Finally a wonderful Christmas Pageant takes place Dec. 18th at the WI United Church, at 7 pm, with Christmas music and the re-telling of the Nativity. Special guests include Chris Brown, Tammy Repath, Vanessa Grant and more. Donations and non perishable food items will be collected for the local food bank. So here we are two weeks away…. Parents and grandparents are waiting for loved ones to come home. Children are looking forward to the holidays, and the Community Centre Board has announced that registration for all Winter Programs takes place —Thursday December 15th, 4:30-7:30 pm at the WIPP. They are also looking for volunteers . The rink should be in full swing for the winter very soon with lights and a roof over top, so who can ask for anything more this Christmas! Skates, maybe?
Around Town: The swans are still around, as are the thousands of Canada Geese who wander our fields…. The many deer venturing out onto the roads, even on the ferry road to Dawson Point, are making residents are very nervous as they drive home after dark.
Coming Events** December 14: Ron Walsh speaking about Kingston VHF radio history and its place in seaway history, Dec. 14th, 7:30 pm —WI United ** Registration Winter Programs @ The WIPP –Thurs. Dec. 15th, 4:30-7:30 pm. **Christmas Pageant Dec. 18th, WI United Church at 7 pm **January 18 (tentative date): Brian Porter with his wife Rene, will speak about the ladies in Sir John A.'s life'.

Posted by M Knott at 11:37 AM
December 01, 2016
Wolfe Island Docking Proposals Reviewed by Islanders!

At the invitation of the Ministry of Transportation, and Morrison Hershfield Ltd., the residents of Wolfe Island did indeed have the opportunity for a second look at how the planning is proceeding for the renovation of the Wolfe Island ferry service, the docks in Kingston and on Wolfe Island. Morrison Hershfield Ltd. is conducting the $1.8 million environmental assessment of the potential for adding a 75-vehicle ferry to the route and rebuilding the three ferry docking terminals. This is the first time the MTO has conducted an EA for the addition of a second ferry to an existing route.
At the first public information centre, held some months ago (June 2016), where the public was offered a first overview of the docking proposals, the general opinion of islanders was that the docking facilities described for Wolfe Island might just be too much for the small rural hamlet of Marysville. At that first meeting opinions ranged from “we just need one extra ferry length of dock (maybe) to allow for easier loading and unloading and a light at the corner,” to “ the dock just needs some extra width for a safe turn around drop off area, accessible public facilities, and line up areas for pedestrians and cyclists with a parking facility for those who use public transit or walk or cycle once in Kingston,” to “WOW, is this for real?” Many were unable to visualise all vehicular traffic accommodated on the ferry dock itself, with no traffic lined up on Main Street. There were requests for improvements to the road to the Dawson Point dock seen as dangerous , too narrow etc. So that was the first go around.
All comments received were brought forward, reviewed and were considered resulting in some changes and alternatives developed. And now the public has had a second opportunity, a chance to see the changes and to make comments, which also will be considered as part of the environmental assessment process, as it continues moving forward toward an improved Wolfe Island ferry service.
“I attended both the Wolfe Island and Kingston presentations,” Frontenac Islands Mayor Denis Doyle said. “ And I spoke to as many people as I could. The first MTO presentation on proposed changes to the docks resulted in a lot of feedback, with changes proposed to downsize the Marysville and Kingston docks,” he said. “The Dawson Point dock it seems was not a major concern receiving generally receiving positive comments at the first meetings and again at this second round. The new Kingston dock proposal does not use the Queen Street dock and looks much better in the artistic renderings (done of each of the three docks) than the previous design. While some people suggested minor changes those I talked to at both meetings where very positive. And the new Marysville proposal is better and will be designed to allow better water flow under the dock,” he said. “Once again the Marysville dock received the bulk of the comments. Most people I spoke say suggest that it ( the dock) is still too big and requires further consideration. Also of particular concern is with the present state of provincial finances, can we afford this and will our elected officials approve the expenditure?”

MTO is looking for feedback from the public on the new docking proposals, with a cut off date of January 6th. “ I urge you to become involved. To assist those who did not have a chance to get to one of the meetings. The material presented at the recent Information Centre will be available at the Wolfe Island Town Hall for review. I would encourage all to have a look and make comments. This material is also available on the MTO website at www.wolfeislandferryea.ca,” Mayor Doyle concluded.

Around Town :* Rumour has it that most of the equipment for the micro brewery on Wolfe Island has begun to arrive, or may already be in place for that matter, with quite a bit of work going on at the old plant. Opening is slated for some time in the new year. ** Many thanks to the WI United Church Women for another Lunch Bunch Travel Series. ***The Christmas Market presented at the WI Fire Hall was a success with thirty-six exhibiters and a wide variety of items for sale.. The Feral Cat Association operated a café and used the opportunity to present information about the rescue- spay-neuter program they offer. **** Watch for posters announcing a Medical Clinic “weekly evening after hours Clinic” staffed by a Nurse Practitioner ** So tell me - Anything happening for Canada’s 150th?

Coming Events: . * WI Christmas Parade, Sat. Dec. 3rd from WI Fire Hall. Contact Daisy 613-985-2541, questions. ** December 14: Ron Walsh will speak about VHF radio history in Kingston and its place in seaway history, December 14th, 7:30 pm —WI United Church **January 18 (tentative date): Brian Porter with his wife Rene (both in costume), will speak about the ladies in Sir John A.'s life'. More to follow. ** Ecumenical Advent Service , this year at the Wolfe Island United Church, Sat. Dec.10th at 7 pm. A lovely way to prepare for Christmas.

Posted by M Knott at 11:32 AM
November 24, 2016
Howe Island Agricultural Ferry Loading Restrictions Lifted

Howe Island loading restrictions, on vehicles supporting agricultural business, have been lifted by Frontenac County thus allowing such vehicles to travel to and from the Island on the Howe Islander ferry on a first come, first cross basis regardless of the time of the day. The issue of agricultural vehicles was raised at a special Frontenac Islands November council meeting by a group of Howe Islanders involved in farming activities. They requested that current loading restrictions be lifted, which preventing agricultural vehicles from boarding the Frontenac Howe Islander ferry between the hours of 6.30-8.30am and 4.00-6.00pm, citing the Farming and Food Production Protection Act (1998,Ontario) and the ‘Normal Farm Practices Protection Board.’
The Act states: By-laws and vehicles 7. (1) A municipal by-law that has the effect of restricting the times during which a vehicle may travel does not apply to the vehicle if, (a) the vehicle is going to or from an agricultural operation; (b) the purpose for which the vehicle is going to or from an agricultural operation and the times during which the vehicle is arriving at or leaving the operation are part of normal farm practice; and © there is no road that could serve as a reasonable alternative that the vehicle may use to travel to or from the agricultural operation. 1998, c. 1, s. 7 (1).
(It would appear the ferry operation restricting the use of the ferry by any farm vehicles, contravenes rules set out in Ontario legislation governing farm activities.)

This issue was referred to the County of Frontenac Council for consideration, and after receiving advice from the municipal solicitor, County Council directed staff to lift the ferry boarding restrictions. Frontenac County operates the MTO owned Howe Islander ferry. As a result of the Frontenac County decision, the Township of Frontenac Islands held a Special Council Meeting at St Philomena’s Church Hall on Howe Island to provide an opportunity for the community to offer their comments on this decision. Members of the public voiced their concerns about various aspects of this issue, including questions about what constitutes ‘normal farm practice’ on Howe Island, suggestions that further legal opinion be sought, and how this development corresponds with the intent of the Township’s Official Plan. Members of the public voiced their intent to pursue this discussion further at the upcoming County Council meeting in December .
“The issue really is with the Provincial Legislation and not the ferry operations, and unless that act is changed, the County felt there was little choice,” Mayor Doyle said in a telephone conversation after the meeting. “While the province could be lobbied to change the act, this would take a lot of staff time and money to pay for lawyers and other consultants. We also have to consider the fact that the Province covers about 90% of the cost of the ferry system when you consider the recent rebuilds of the docks, bubbler system as well as maintenance costs, fuel and electric power to run the bubbler. We realize that not all residents support this decision, but the farming community felt that on the most critical commuter runs, in the morning rush hours, that they would seldom use those trips,” he said. “The issue is late in the day with the restrictions from 4:00 to 6:00 PM, and getting empty grain trucks on to the island in the fall of the year to transport crops. Since those trucks are empty, a further 4 or 5 cars can also board the ferry. However the trucks typically coming back later in the day usually when car traffic is lighter, and the certified gross weight of the ferry will not allow any additional vehicles to be loaded. Those who miss a trip as a result, have a 12-15 minute wait for the next ferry, or can take the HI township ferry at the foot of the island,” Mayor Doyle concluded. Check out the HI Ratepayers Association for further information as well as the Frontenac Islands website.

Around Town: *The Wolfe Island Christmas Elves have been out and about Marysville making things beautiful for Christmas **Thanks go out to WI’s Fire Fighters for their assistance with the Remembrance Day Service . **My apology to Jim Roulston, Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) Volunteer, whose named I misspelled in an article about the WI Boat Club.. ** Watch for WI Historical Society Posters for Nov/Dec./Jan.

Coming Events:** The WI Historical Society invites you to join us on November 30th WI United Church Hall at 7:30 pm as Sherry Pringle discusses her recently released book EXTRAORDINARY WOMEN EXTRAORDINARY TIMES- CANADIAN WOMEN OF WWII, detailing the contributions of Canadian women during the Second World War. *** WI Christmas Parade, Sat. Dec. 3rd from WI Fire Hall. Contact Daisy 613-985-2541, questions. ** December 14: Ron Walsh will speak about VHF radio history in Kingston and its place in seaway history, December 14th, 7:30 pm —WI United Church **January 18 (tentative date): Brian Porter will speak about 'the ladies in Sir John A.'s life' with Brian’s wife Rene, both in costume. More to follow. ** Ecumenical Advent Service , this year at the Wolfe Island United Church, Sat. Dec.10th at 7 pm. A lovely way to prepare for Christmas.

Posted by M Knott at 11:22 AM
November 17, 2016
Early Years Centre: Important For Growth of Wolfe Island Community

The Township of Frontenac Islands was called upon to commit to permanent baseline funding for the Early Years program on Wolfe Island as a locally run, locally funded, and locally responsive amenity for for young children and their families which it is now. Or, alternatively to seek full provincial funding (with pending dates) and recognition for a permanent rebranded Early Years Centre (EYC) to an “Early Years and Family Centre” in the community. at their November council meeting.
The EYC program has been available on the island for over 14 years providing structured activities and support for infant and preschool children, and playing an essential role in bringing together parents /grand parents and caregivers. Presently averaging 50 persons, children & caregivers per week. The township now supports the program with an annual grant of $10,000 from the Amenities Fund, with the EYC fundraising to meet their present $14,000 budget “most of which supports the salary of a part time co-ordinator who provides support and the essential mandated programs of an EYC ,” said Sarah Greenwood, present on behalf of the EYC. “We will raise the other $4000.” Sarah noted that they had cut the co-ordinator’s hours to half days Monday to Friday reducing costs
“In option one you were asking for $11,000, I was happy to consider that,” Mayor Doyle said. Not missing a beat Greenwood said, ”we will take it.” Following was a reminder that all requests for funding must be submitted to council in advance of 2017 budget discussions. Based on the information regarding the provincial review of EYC’s , as Family Centres and funding options, municipal staff will work with the “Wolfe Island Early Years Centre” to submit a funding application to the province, at the same time the budget request for $11,000 from the Amenities Fund will be considered for the coming year.

2. Division Street Costs: Costs for Marysville’s Division Street construction were higher than the budgeted $364, 000. Public Works Manager Rob Dillabough told council the job was tendered and came 50% higher than for neighbouring municipalities, particularly for asphalt. ($160 a tonne here as compared to $90 on the mainland). Division Street paving was included as part of the overall plan for a seniors apartment complex on Wolfe Island. The township added extra items to the project; a sidewalk at $9,300, a culvert pipe into a rock change order at $21,000, and a final change order at $4,700 for a drainage culvert at the Community Centre grounds. This brought the total cost, including $35,000 engineering/survey costs, to an overall total of $424,700, which is $60,686 over the revised budget. Council authorized the transfer of $ 60,686 from the Wolfe Island Equipment Reserve to balance the Division Street budget.

3. Frontenac Islands has endorsed the Zorra Township resolution, that the current Ontario Accommodation and Review process of Rural Public Schools is not reflective of the reality of rural school and community life. School closures impact single-school, small rural communities in all educational, social and economic aspects to a far greater degree than impacts in multi-school urban communities, and for those reasons, the Township of Frontenac Islands requests the Minister of Education initiate an immediate moratorium on the Accommodation Review Process, until such time as a review of the above mentioned impacts on small rural communities, such as Wolfe Island (Frontenac Islands), are considered.

4. Frontenac Islands will submit an application $18,6520 to the Frontenac County Eco Tourism initiative on behalf of the Howe Island Trail, a community asset used by runners, walkers, bikers etc., to upgrade the trail and make it more accessible to seniors by refining its surface, providing resting benches, gates at each of the 3 roadway entrances and a small 6 car parking lot off the road.

In other business: Councillor Grant extended thanks to all involved and in attendance at the Remembrance Day Service at the WI Fire Hall. Councillor Springgay wants consideration during the budget to organizing a 150th Celebration and involving all of the township’s community groups. More next time!

Around Town: *WI resident Brigadier General David Paterson brought to the WI remembrance Service the name of another veteran, Frederick Leonard Davis, born on WI in 1895, who farmed in Joyceville, enlisted in 1916, with the PPCLI in 1918, in the thick of action at Amiens, Arras and the Hindenburg Line and Canal de Nord near Cambrai, and was struck down Oct. 10 1918, and buried one month before the war ended. He is commemorated on the Gananoque War Memorial. “We take this time to recall the hundreds of Wolfe Islanders who answered the call in the 1st, 2nd, & Korean wars, the Cold War , and in Afghanistan… We will remember them,” David said.

Coming Events: ** Shop at the WOLFE Island Christmas Market, WI Fire Hall 10 am-3:00 pm Sunday November 27th, 2016 36 vendors, a café. Bring your car. Ferry docks at Dawson Point . *** WI Christmas Parade, Sat. Dec. 3rd from WI Fire Hall. Join us after for Hot Dogs & Hot Chocolate. Santa pictures. Contact Daisy 613-985-2541 or Wolfeislandparade@gmail.com to put in a float, questions.

Posted by M Knott at 11:27 AM
November 09, 2016
Rehabilitation of Simcoe Island Ferry Docks: Comes None too Soon!

At long last the rehabilitation of the Simcoe Island Ferry Docks began in earnest on Nov. 2nd. Over the years the docks have been maintained and repaired along with the ferry itself, many times. But this renovation, undertaken for the township by H. R. Dornekamp Construction Ltd., for the amount of $ 406,700.00 plus H.S.T., is for “Complete Rehabilitation,”It is to be paid for by the township and the Ministry of Transportation. Doornekamp’s was the only bid.
Dornekamp has advised Simcoe residents that as rehabilitating the Simcoe Island Ferry Dock will require the ferry to be out of service periodically, Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 3:00 pm, excepting for Emergency Vehicles . No work is scheduled weekends or statutory holidays, and from Nov.7 13, and Dec. 21 Jan.4, 2017. The current schedule indicates a construction completion date of January 15, 2017.
Simcoe Island is part of Frontenac Islands (Howe and Wolfe), linked to Wolfe Island by the small Simcoe Island ferry which holds 3 cars. Frontenac Islands also includes privately owned Horseshoe Island and Garden Island. At the present time there are 25 permanent residents on Simcoe, and many more summer residents and cottagers.
Simcoe Island is home to the Nine Mile Point light house, built in 1833. Not designated a heritage site by Parks Canada, it requires much money to save and preserve it. In past years the Simcoe Island ferry was shut down for the winter leaving permanent residents to walk across the ice to go to work and to reach home. Simcoe Island children left home and were boarded with friends/family to attend school on Wolfe Island and in Kingston. That may still happen but less ice and warmer winters now make it possible to keep the ferry run open longer, if not the whole winter.
Forward concerns or inquiries to Doornekamp’s Jeff Simpson, project manager at JeffS@Doornekamp.ca
2. Wolfe Island’s Remembrance Day Ceremony moves location to Fire Hall this year only: The Remembrance Day Service on Wolfe Island always held in front of the Wolfe Island Town Hall will be held this year at the island’s Emergency Services Building, location on Road #95, with a reception to follow in the Fire Hall. The Town Hall location is not available due to renovations in and around the building to provide a ramp and accessible washroom facilities at the township hall.
The formal Wolfe Island observance of Remembrance Day began in 1994 when a plaque was put in place by the Township. It was proposed by John O’Shea, then Deputy Reeve, to recognize islanders who had served Canada in the military. Every year since then, a Remembrance Day Service has been held, outside the Town Hall, where the plaque is located. This year, once again, the ceremony is being organized by island resident Pat Sandford. And every year the service is much the same as one you might attend in Kingston or in other parts of Frontenac County, or in Ottawa for that matter, but it has a uniqueness that is the island. Here island clergy, local political leaders, veterans, school children, municipal staff and members of community groups gather. The number of people in attendance can be affected by the weather, or by how many people are on the island at the time. Many Islanders work off the island and have a limited amount of time to attend the island’s ceremony, and may attend Kingston’s instead. But year after year an ever increasing number of residents, friends and visitors do attend the event where, over the last couple of years quite a large contingent of young men and women from Kingston’s Royal Military College in their brilliant red uniforms, will come once again to participate with the community. The moment of remembrance begins with the bugle playing of the “Last Post”, immediately before 11:00 am. Welcome.
Around Town : Wolfe Islanders will remember well Fr. Jan Appleman, 82, (of Mill Hill Mission, Holland), pastor of Sacred Heart of Mary Parish 1986-1998, who has died and was buried in Holland where he had retired. Fr deSouza, noted in the parish bulletin that Fr Appelman had been happy to receive news and see pictures of the newly renovated Marian Grotto which was his project. RIP. * A second Flu shot clinic was held at the WI Community Medical Clinic to handle those people who did not receive their ‘shot”, they having run out of the vaccine at the Annual Flu Clinic, the previous Saturday.
Coming Events: *** WI’s Nov. 11th Remembrance Day Service ,WI Fire Hall ,Rd.# 95 10:45 am. Reception follows. ** WI’s Anglican Parish Turkey Dinner, Sat. Nov. 12th, St. Margaret’s Hall, Marysville 4:30- 7:00 pm $13.00 **WI’s Christmas Village 2016, Sun. Nov. 27th, WI Fire Hall Note—-the Ferry is now landing at Dawson Pt. Dock.***

Posted by M Knott at 10:24 PM
Expressions of Interest called for Seniors Apartments on Wolfe Island

Senior Housing was chosen as a priority by Wolfe Islanders a number of years ago. Public meetings were held throughout Frontenac County to determine need, and Marysville was chosen for a first seniors housing project under the auspices of Frontenac County. This week the Township of Frontenac Islands issued a call for Expressions of Interest (EOI), to Design-Build Contractors for the construction of a Seniors Apartment (5 unit) on Wolfe Island, a first step in the contractor selection process. The second step requires a response to a Request for a Proposal (RFP). According to the call for EOI’s , the building project will ‘incorporate significant energy saving features with contractors experienced with building standards such as Passive House, LEED, R2000 or comparable energy initiatives, likely to be ranked higher in the evaluation process. One contract will be awarded to one design-build firm for the project.’
What residents said they wanted was a facility that was affordable, in the village, operated locally and offering safety, independence, socialization and the opportunity to remain on the island.

“ This project goes back 8 or 9 years to a time when Councillor Wayne Grant, Walter Knott and I conducted a community survey that confirmed strong interest in senior accommodation on Wolfe Island,” according to Mayor Denis Doyle . “Three years ago when Frontenac County Council was working on its Strategic Plan, one of the top three projects that we decided to focus on over a five year period was to build one five unit seniors apartment building in each of the four townships in Frontenac County. This lead to County Council approving the hiring of a consultant to help us to decide how to move forward and subsequently we approved $335,000 for (each of) North, South, Central and Frontenac Islands-(Wolfe Island) Township, “Doyle added.

Doyle noted that a committee of very knowledgeable and dedicated citizens was formed to finalize the building design and construction schedule for the Wolfe Island project and that for the past couple months they have met almost weekly and will continue to do so, “so that the next step, the RFP proposal, that will outline in some detail the type of building we are looking for can be issued by mid- December. This has been more work than I think the members expected and I thank them for their effort and hard work. Committee members include Mayor Doyle, Councillor Wayne Grant, Brian Scovill, Kathy Horton, Mikaela Hughes, Walter Knott, & Darlene Plumbly, secretary, with advisor, Patrick Thompson

“As a preliminary step we have sent out a document looking for expression of interested from contractors who want to bid on this contract. In that document we asked for those companies who have experience in building similar buildings and who will finalize the design and drawings based on our specifications, Mayor Doyle said. “In the expression of interest document we did not get into much detail other than state that the building must be energy efficient, approximately 4,500 square feet, with four one bedroom units, one two bedroom and a common area for people to meet and socialize in.”

“To date we have finished the road to the site, on Division St., (just east of the fire hall and ambulance station). A water line is in, and the survey for the land that we will build on is completed, and we hope to have the contract to build signed in early 2017 to ensure that construction starts early spring when the frost comes out of the ground. This would mean that construction should be complete by late summer 2017, at which time the first people can move in,” the Mayor Doyle concluded. From responses to this expression of interest document, the township hopes to identify the most appropriate 3 or 4 contractors to work with to get a cost and a time schedule to build the Seniors Apartment. And, with the sizeable amount of money from the County, the township also hopes to finance the amount to complete the building and pay it back from rental fees, thus not requiring tax dollars to cover the costs.

Design-Build Contractors who are interested must submit an Expressions of Interest document, available by contacting the township office at 613-385-2216, dplumley@kos.net . Submit your electronic copy of the completed document, to the address below. Please include resumes for key personnel proposed to be involved. The closing deadline is Tuesday, November 29, 2016, 3:00 P.M.

Coming Events: **WI’s Christmas Village 2016, Sun. Nov. 27th, WI Fire Hall Note—-the Ferry is now landing at Dawson Pt. Dock. *** Lunch Bunch Wed. Nov. 17 WI United Church Hall 11:30 am.

Posted by M Knott at 11:04 AM
October 20, 2016
We Really Are Part of Frontenac County

We Really Are Part of Frontenac County It should come as no surprise to learn that many Frontenac Islands residents are unaware of our township’s relationship with Frontenac County, except for the very essential Paramedic Service. And many of them might be surprised to know that Frontenac Islands utilizes, to a great extent, Frontenac County’s Planning and Economic Development services, as well as tax billing and accounting. Information comes to the township from the county through their information and community development services, along with the provincial program and funding information the county provides. Islanders do know Frontenac County’s Fairmount Home is supported with municipal taxes but to date the home has had few islanders reside there. They appreciate the KP Trail although they may not feel particularly involved.
Frontenac was originally proclaimed on July 16 1792, joined by neighboring Lennox and Addington counties, as one of the original nineteen Upper Canada counties when it dissolved in 1865. In 1998, the eighteen former townships were restructured to form four –North, Central and South Frontenac and the Frontenac Islands, on a four-member (now 8) Frontenac County Council.
Frontenac County’s web site states that Frontenac County residents “enjoy the advantages of a rural lifestyle, living, working and travelling in one of the most naturally beautiful parts of Ontario province, yet benefit from the region’s proximity to a number of major urban centres. They have access to the county’s numerous lakes, parks, camping areas, forests, trails including the KP Trail, unique businesses and services.
Considering the makeup of Frontenac County, located mostly to the north of us, and our island locations to the south, it sometimes feels as if we are out here surrounded by water, and on our own, when in fact where we sit in the water suggests we might be, or could be part of the City of Kingston, or even attached to Leeds & Grenville County.
North, South and Central are accessible by a number of roads and highways to most of what Frontenac County has to offer. Frontenac Islands to the south is accessible by ferry in down town Kingston. WI accesses Simcoe Island by a ferry; Island; Horne’s ferry (WI) goes to Cape Vincent, NY; Howe Islander (ferry) Kingston -Howe Island; HI (foot) ferry to Leeds Grenville County (Gananoque). Kingston however is a primary destination for the ferry travellers.
Recently Frontenac County issued a Community Engagement Survey, and began a campaign of encouraging all county residents to complete it by the Oct. 21st deadline. The survey was designed to gather views on the programs, services and operations of Frontenac County and to help the county in setting priorities and reviewing its five year business plans. Questions in the first instance related to services presently delivered by, or through the county government; possible shared services by local agreements. Economic development questions pertained to how much should the county be involved and in what ways, whether farming, food, tourism, events, small medium businesses, and community improvement plans. Next was health and social services, why, how, and how much. Transportation services, around the county and into the city. There were Quality of Life questions and, finally, a few personal (prefer not to answer) questions about a age, gender, income, where you live, rent, own. If you have questions about county services or about the survey, call Kelly Pender, CAO Frontenac County, 613-548-9400 ext.300 FYI: The survey remains posted on the Frontenac Islands website under news: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/frontenac_citizen_survey_2016
Around Town: * The Anglican Parish of Wolfe Island is offering children and youth the opportunity to make music together with the island’s Murray McNeely, an experienced music teacher, and expand their musical talents or to learn new ones. Practice is held at Trinity Anglican Church Sundays at 11 am for young musicians with any level of experience. The emphasis will be on MUSIC and offering youth a safe place to gather. For more information call: 613-484-1553, or 343-333-4440 ** Frontenac Transportation Service (FTS) and Senior Transportation. FTS provides subsidized transportation at minimal cost to seniors by connecting them with volunteer drivers to get where they need to go. Operating in South, Central and North Frontenac, FTS hopes to extend this service to Frontenac Islands. The program depends upon recruiting community volunteer drivers, and clients who need the rides. If you are interested in participating ( as a client or volunteer),contact: Gail Young, 613-279-2044,Toll Free: 1-877-279-2044 Email: transportation@nfcs.ca. *** Due to ongoing work at WI’s Town Hall Community building the Remembrance Day service will be held at WI’s Fire Hall, Rd 95.
Coming Events: *Lunch Bunch Oct. 19th 11:30 am WI United Hall. ** Turkey Supper WI United Church Oct. 29th (doors open 4:30 pm) ** Flu Shot Clinic 9-12 pm Oct. 29th ** Remembrance Day Nov. 11, 10:45 am WI Fire Hall

Posted by M Knott at 11:39 AM
October 13, 2016
Howe Island News and More!

Frontenac Islands council members and staff gathered for their regular meeting on Howe Island. Earlier in the day, council members and a number of HI residents went on a tour led by Public Works Manager Rob Dillabough. They looked at work underway, or completed, along HI’s highways, byways, and ferry areas (signage, guard rail projects, Spit Head Road reconstruction, public works yard fencing, etc.). According to all, it was a good tour, to be followed with one on Wolfe Island.

In short order council gave final reading to 2017 fees and fares bylaws for Howe and Simcoe ferries and for a Stop sign at WI’s Easy Lane and 3rd Line Road South. There was some discussion around fees and fares for Howe Island. As to why residents concerns & input into Frontenac County’s process were not acknowledged, Mayor Doyle noted that there was some urgency to get on with the budget. Council will request a Public Meeting with county officials on Howe island. “So,” Deputy Mayor Nossal commented, “this as an issue for next year?” Howe Island ferry boarding and rush hour restrictions for truck and farm vehicles (on the agenda) were postponed until the proponents meet with county officials, the operators of the ferry and, are well prepared for December’s Council meeting on Howe Island.

Frontenac County Legislative Services Manager Jannette Amini presented an overview of the work and successes of the county’s Accessibility Committee, made up of representatives from each of the townships and two county councillors. The committee is there to advise and create awareness regarding the AODA (Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act), its requirements and time lines. And to work with councils and municipal staff, as well as with community businesses and groups, in all areas where the accessibility needs of persons with disabilities must be addressed. “ We are taking a proactive approach to letting everyone know about the requirements of the AODA.” Nominations are open until Nov.3rd for the “International Day of Persons with Disabilities Access Award for
Frontenac persons, groups, organizations who are improving access for persons with disabilities.

Public Works Projects for Wolfe Island indicate that the one tender received was accepted for the complete rebuild of the Simcoe Island ferry docks (services, materials to complete the design proposed dock upgrades) at a cost of $406,700. “Anything that is there has to either removed, replaced, cleaned i.e. rocks, boulders, cement, plates, lights, everything to bring it up to standard. It has to be environmentally sound. All of that material has to be taken off the island.,” Manager Dillabaugh said. “The township is budgeted for its part of the project and MTO is looking at different ways to deal with its 80% for the rebuild.. Council accepted the tender information based on the premise that the project would go forward with MTO’s 80% support, just received. The money is to be awarded over a two year period.

OPP Billing: Mayor Doyle updated council regarding 2017 OPP billing, assigned by household and estimated at $302,975, and efforts to bring some of this cost inline regarding particularly wind turbines. All across Ontario OPP is charging the same fee for policing wind towers that require no policing. And the same fee for an apartment building that may have 50 to 100 families in it. “The way the formula works they take the whole cost and divide it up by the number of households, counting a wind tower, cell tower or apartment building as a household,” he said.
Deputy Mayor Nossal noted “that even when some of the issues affecting particularly rural areas OPP costs will remain very high. We will still be paying $300,000. Rural OPP costs need to be kept front and centre.”

Action items, Mayor Doyle responded to Mayor Bryan Patterson’s request for a letter supporting Kingston’s ‘Third Crossing Initiative’. The letter cited reduced traffic congestion on Ontario Street, faster unloading of the Wolfe Island ferry, relief to the bottleneck at the LaSalle Causeway for Howe Islanders in both directions. And to provide an additional access route to the Causeway and Hwy. 401 (both prone to delays) for Ambulance, Paramedic and Emergency Services. The letter was to be circulated to Provincial Minister of Infrastructure Bob Chiarelli, and Federal Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, Amarjeet Sohi.

Questions: Mayor Doyle invited questions & comments: Councillor Grant asked about county money ($300,000) taken from reserves, and for what. In response Deputy Mayor Nossal said “There was a (Federal)Renovate program administered by the city for low income persons allowing them to remain in their homes…. The County feared the program’s elimination so put money into reserves for it. It was not and its not new money. The KP Trail needed money for acquisitions. The motion was to take 75% of the reserves for the trail. I felt it should be used for social programs. Mayor Doyle, and I, and North Frontenac Mayor Higgins voted against” . We were incensed.” she said. | “It was morally wrong. It was tax money,” Mayor Doyle added. Nossal has asked how the trail has thus far been funded. To be con’t.
Coming Events: *Lunch Bunch Oct. 19th 11:30 am WI United Hall. ** Turkey Supper WI United Church Oct. 29th (doors open 4:30 pm) * Flu Shot Clinic 9-12 pm Oct. 29th * Remembrance Day Nov. 11, 10:45 am WI Fire Hall

Posted by M Knott at 11:36 AM
October 09, 2016
Wolfe Island Ferry Moved to Dawson Point Terminal

Wolfe Island Ferry Moved to Dawson Point Terminal It’s that time of year on Wolfe Island, dreaded by many, appreciated by others, when the Wolfe Islander ferry moves to the Dawson Point dock, same schedule but away from the village of Marysville. MTO determined it was time to do so because of lower water levels. As stated in MTO’s public communique, “This move is necessary due to the sudden seasonal decline in the water levels of Lake Ontario. Reports show an ongoing downward trend. The safety of the Wolfe Islander III passengers and ferry vessel is always a priority for this Ministry. Moving to the winter dock at Dawson Point on Wolfe Island will ensure the continuation of the ferry's operation during the seasonal low levels of Lake Ontario.” MTO leaves the ferry operating from Maryville to at least Thanksgiving, or Christmas, water levels permitting. Some years it never moved at all.

2. Community Events You may have missed:

The history of the Wolfe Island Boat Club (WIBC) is like the story of ‘The Little Engine That Could’, beginning with a few enthusiastic boaters saying, we can do this . And they have. Most recently MPP Sophie Kiwala visited the WIBC along with Jim Roustel, Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) Volunteer, to join with WIBC’s Commodore Tom Wroe, Nicole Clark, Treasurer, Frontenac Islands Mayor Denis Doyle , Councillor Wayne Grant, members and friends for a ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the results of a $19,800 OTF Capital grant used to install a new dock, buy rowing equipment and Laser sailboats. MPP Kiwala expressed delight with what the OTF grant has allowed to club to accomplish not only with regard to infrastructure and equipment but to provide opportunities for people of all ages to engage in water recreation and sport. Tom Wroe noted its impact, first the new dock allowing rowers to launch skulls and with new oars, then the club adding sculling to their list of coached rowing programs. “With the addition of the Lasers participation in family race nights exceeded our expectations and all the boats were sailed all summer. With the added safety equipment the club was able to reach out to younger members of the community,” he said.

As an incorporated not-for-profit, the WIBC is a volunteer-run, community organization that aims to provide a variety of sailing and rowing camps and programs, as well as drop-in Dragon Boating, canoeing and kayaking, from pre-school age onward. WIBC programs include After School Sailing, Summer Kid’s Camp, and ‘Little Kid’s Camp’ for preschoolers, Learn to Row Clinics, Coached Rowing, Family Race Nights, drop-in Dragon Boating, canoeing and kayaking. For information: www.wolfeislandboatclub.ca WIBC hosts the annual Barrett Bay Regatta, sponsored by local businesses .
THE WOLFE ISLAND PLOWING MATCH sponsored by the WI Plowmen’s Association was held at Henry and Janine Posthumus’ Morningsight Farms in September. There were 27 plowers. Of those, one plowed with a team of horses and another with a team of mules. There were 7 junior plowers (under 18), and 18 senior plowers. The antique class was the largest with a total of 13 plowers made up of 3 junior members and 10 seniors. The Wolfe Island’s Princess of the Furrow Amber (Mosier) Lumb attended, and plowed at the event. The judges for the day were Mathew McGuire and Ken Mosier. Displays/Vendors: WI Friend’s of Ferals, Shelley Fowler, antique tractors and machinery; canteen (Harriet & Bob Corkey). Rain fell the day before the plowing match , with no further rain till the plowing match had ended. A group of sponsors too long to list support the WI Plowing Match.
Class Winners: Horses- Kim Hadwen; Tractors (Junior)-Orie Chown; Tractor ( 2-furrow)- Clare Dracup; (2-furrow, previous 2 time winners of previous 2-furrow class)- Allen Hills; (3-furrow)- Garry Posthumus:(4-furrow)- Dave Woodman; Ladies-Amber Lumb; Antiques-Craig Hulton. Special Trophies: BEST EFFORT UNDER 18- Morning Site Farms-Caleb Knox; BEST PLOUGH TEAM WIPP- Kim Hadwen; BEST DRESSED HORSE- Greg McAllister, Kim Hadwen; OLDEST PLOUGHPERSON Fargo's Grocery Store— John Posthumus; YOUNGEST PLOUGHPERSON Harvey Hawkey Award- Amber Lumb; SAFEST PLOUGHPERSON Farm Safety Association —Rebecca Pemberton; PRINCESS OF THE FURROW The Grant Family - Amber Lumb; BEST FINISH HORSE Kim Hadwen; BEST FINISH TRACTOR-Woodman Machine Products-Hunter Chown; BEST CROWN-Gateview Farm Equipment- Allen Hills; CHAMPION LAND -Lorne Hulton Trophy-Allen Hills. (The Lorne Hulton Trophy for Champion Land of the Day and the Harvey Hawkey Award for the Champion Land are perpetual trophies.) Of special note A week previously, WI’s Hunter Chown won the Junior Section at the Canadian Plowing Championships, including a scholarship to Old’s College in Alberta.

EARLY YEARS: One final event you may have missed was picking apples at WI’s Annual Apple Festival held at Horne’s Orchard. Every penny raised by the Early Years Committee (EYC) (matched by a resident) supports the WI Early Years Program. And a great year it was for apples. The EYC holds many fund raising activities throughout the year to keep this important program going, not only for the benefit of the children but for the parents, grandparents and caregivers who bring them.

Coming Events: Coming Event: *Lunch Bunch Wednesday’s, (Oct-Nov.) 11:30 am WI United Church Hall. *WI Christmas Village, Nov. 27th. Contact: wi.christmasvillage@gmail.com. * Flu Shot Clinic Oct. 29th

Posted by M Knott at 11:26 AM
October 02, 2016
Good News Day- MTO Issues RFQ for Wolfe and Amherst Island Ferries

It was a long hot summer without a news update about the Wolfe Island Ferry and Docking Improvements EA . So it was news indeed to be informed that the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) continues to move forward in the process of procuring two new ferries, one 40 car ferry for the municipally operated Amherst Island Ferry Service and one 75 car vessel for the Wolfe Island Ferry service. MTO issued a request for qualifications (RFQ) for the design-build of the two ferries promised some months ago. It is first of two stages in the procurement process and interested bidders have 6 weeks (September 27- November 8) to respond.

“These vessels are not part of the current Wolfe Island EA, but the project is related,” MTO’s Heather Roebuck, Regional Operations Officer said in a notice to Wolfe Island Citizens Advisory Group Members. “ we posted the RFQ for the two new vessels, which will go forward as one project,” she said. The procurement process for the design-build firm is running concurrently with the ongoing Environmental Assessment for the Wolfe island ferry dock improvement project. That EA is scheduled to be completed in 2017. The procurement process to acquire the design-build firm could take up to 10 months. When a short list of qualifying shipyards is developed, the second stage of the procurement process, the (RFP) Request for Proposals will be issued. Designing and building the new ferry for Amherst Island is expected to take approximately 24 months, while the 75 car ferry for Wolfe Island will take an additional 12 months. It is expected the contract will be awarded in late spring 2017.

Public input into the design of the new ferries is also an important part of the RFQ process. MTO has posted separate passenger surveys on ‘Survey Monkey’ for the two vessels, according to Roebuck. “I have attached the link below and I encourage you to complete the Wolfe Island survey before October 27.” While comments from the public are encouraged during both processes, Roebuck noted that the ferry procurement process has no Public Information Centres to gather information. “So the WI Passenger Survey is our opportunity to gather input into the needs and wants of the ferry users. Please forward the link to the survey to anyone interested in the new vessel. We welcome all suggestions and opinions. Of particular interest are responses from those users who have accessibility challenges.” (https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SWJKGB9)

2. Wolfe Island Ferry Line Enforcement. The question of Wolfe Island ferry boarding particularly at daily peak times (which seems to be most times on certain days, and all weekends,) has now become an issue significant enough that at a meeting recently a resident suggested that the only fair way to deal with the ferry line parking problems is to move the ferry out of the village to Dawson Point. An expression of sheer frustration no doubt, not only for ferry users but for the township as well. A recent township notice stated that given the lack of compliance with the |Parking By-Law regulations, that Frontenac By-Law Enforcement will come to the island more often to assist in rectifying the situation, leading to fines. The township has provided clear signage outlining ferry line parking rules all along the route through Marysville, with the route itself and the spaces, including the no parking spaces, all clearly identified.
Mayor Doyle spoke of ongoing disregard for the rules. He said residents are increasingly unhappy with people parking cars wherever they please in the lineup. “This leads to people queuing up behind that car leaving spaces further up, with people then butting into the line to fill them, rather than going to the end of the line as they should. That results in someone at the end of the line not getting on the ferry, who otherwise would have,” he said. Following the rules means a more efficient and safer loading process and help keep the ferry on schedule.

Around Town: *The Frontenac Islands website is now up and running. A recent letter posted on the WI Network face book site states: ‘The School Enrolment/School Capacity Committee (SE/SCC) of the Limestone District School Board voted to approve reaching out to the Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board (ALCDSB) to explore the possibility of a joint-use facility on Wolfe Island’ (declining enrollment). There was a previous arrangement between Marysville Public School and Sacred Heart Catholic School. The decision to initiate the consultation has to be approved at the next regular ALCDSB meeting scheduled for Oct. 19, 2016.

Post Script: *Water Low… Wolfe Islander III now operating from Dawson Point.

Coming Event: *Lunch Bunch Wednesday’s, (Oct-Nov.) 11:30 am Wolfe Island United Church Hall. * The 2016 WI Christmas Village, Sun. Nov. 27th. Interested in booking a table contact: wi.christmasvillage@gmail.com.

Posted by M Knott at 11:19 AM
September 23, 2016
Frontenac Islands Meeting Review

Frontenac Island’s council welcomed Alison Vandervelde, Frontenac County Community Development Officer, & Anne Marie Young, the County Manager of Economic Development, to their September meeting to update them about the ‘Regional Branding’ for Frontenac County. “Frontenac,” the brand unifies the 4 county municipalities under one Frontenac umbrella with the logo used throughout the county as a promotional tool. ‘“The objective and the challenge of the branding is to promote Frontenac , its characteristics, its geography, its community, what it has offer and proudly to say I’m from Frontenac.”
Alison referred to the Frontenac logo, and the easy use of the “IN Frontenac” tag ( a natural hash tag) to advertise, promote anything anywhere in it. “ I have been tasked to bring brand Ambassadors on board. My goal is 100 businesses, community organizations who want to take part in celebrating the brand, collaborate to build the reputation of Frontenac as a desirable place to live, work do business work. We are also looking at starting a regional marketing plan.” Trips and trails, local food and beverage and recreational life style are the areas to be focused on in the next 3-4 years. Councillor Springgay asked about costs and available funding opportunities.. Councillor Grant said some Wolfe Islanders don’t even know Frontenac County exists, “you have your work cut out.” Mayor Doyle said islanders are more likely to say they’re from Kingston when asked.

Then in the business of the township: Public works manager Rob Dillabaugh’s report drew questions about having more grass cutting to fence lines with deer appearing at this time of year and winter coming. ^Councillor Higgs requested a reduced speed from 80 to 60 on Howe Islands Lower Side road, citing a number of safety concerns, with a decision following a review. ^A long range plan for HI’s Spit Head Road is to be added to ‘Actions Pending” October report. ^Council approved emergency requests for security cameras, to monitor the WI Fire Hall and Land Ambulance employee base, and at the WI Public Works garage to monitor it, the yard and fuel depot, as a result of incidents and thefts at both. Council will consider further security cameras at budget time. ^Accessible washrooms and WI municipal office renovations: Due to lack of bids staff will move forward, sole sourcing with Kevin Kane Contracting providing the appropriate services and materials to complete the project. ^Two Parker Hydraulic Units were approved for the Howe Islander Ferry, with funding from the HI equipment reserve. ^Also on Howe, term appointments with the HI ferry committee are changed to 2 years with the chair/vice chair elected annually (Sept.). ^ Improvements for Simcoe Island ferry docks closer with call for tenders. ^ Council did not endorse a Frontenac County Shared Service Delivery/Shared Communications Proposal. ^ Deputy Mayor Nossal noted HI’s strong support for their annual Terry Fox run (10 years) that has raised $67,400 for cancer research and requested a waiver of the required permit in keeping with the Terry Fox foundation expenses donated policy. October 2016 declared Public Library Month

In other Business: Councillor Grant praised WI Fire & Recue efforts in securing a Freightliner Pumper Truck for $13,000: that the”Friends of Ferals benefitted from the WI Transfer Site’s Bottle return policy to the tune of $2400 for the month of August.; Extended thanks to Cindy and Larry Greenwood for waste collection and recycling following the successful WI Fox Trial held recently at Big Sandy Bay. Special thanks given to Kristina Walker (WI Heroes Run):
Councillor Springgay raised the issue of water supply on Wolfe Island, and wants the 2017 budget process to include evaluating options to find a solution: Deputy Mayor Nossal said the two HI Fire & Rescue pumper trucks underwent and passed pump testing: HI’s annual baseball party organized by Mike Hart was a great success: Nossal to seek a future Trillium application submission concerning a possible HI community hall:

Public Comments at the end of the meeting included: A thought that the change of ownership at Metal Craft might lead to a cleanup of the site: Concern for low water levels and state of MTO’s WI winter bubbler system: A call for review of burning bylaw because of continuous WI burning/ smoldering fires: Importance of monitoring water supply ( due to dry summer/low water levels) highlighted: With low water concerns for possible ferry hull damage why has it not moved?: Concern over unauthorized WI camping with suggestion for (local person) Bylaw Enforcement: Sadly a resident identified an issue of vandalism at MacDonald Park (tables vandalized, dedication plates damaged, benches tipped into the water. Security cameras/signage suggested. Mary Lynn MacDonald will be notified.

Coming Events: Lunch Bunch Wednesday’s, (Oct-Nov.) 11:30 am Wolfe Island United Church Hall.* The 2016 WI Christmas Village, Sun. Nov. 27th. Interested in booking a table contact: wi.christmasvillage@gmail.com.

Posted by M Knott at 11:05 AM
September 15, 2016
Wolfe Island Planning in Advance of Improved Ferry Service

Frontenac county’s Chief Administrative Officer, Kelly Pender, attended the September council meeting to present the results of council’s request that the County’s Planning Service provide a list of planning tools to ensure “that the existing character of Marysville is maintained and able to accommodate the expected growth of the village over the next twenty years.” CAO Pender congratulated council for its proactive approach to planning for the proposed Wolfe Island ferry service expansion and future growth. The Township is obligated to consider the impacts of a second ferry (75 car) improving transportation services.
“The report offers four basic options and the one with the most detail is Secondary Planning, (SP)” CAO Pender said. “It would give council the tools to make decisions knowing that the first premise of the Ontario Planning act is to reward councils that do pre-planning, thinks in advance and says, this in the kind of community we want. It very much discourages the acting and reacting approach to applications, so you are very much in a position if you consult widely and make decisions about what you want the community to look like before growth happens. SP’s used across Ontario provide the tools to amend your Official Plan (OPA) so that council and the community can determine growth ” CAO Pender pointed out other regulations citing the interim control bylaw, or an H (holding) designation or expropriation. “all taking you to a study,” he said. With an SP the idea is that council in consultation with the community decides how growth will be accommodated. Maybe people want Marysville to remain as is, or in a larger sense looking at the Marysville and its boundaries you could probably triple its size over the next 20 years. Without a study you could be stuck with issues you hadn’t thought of, placing you at a disadvantage when faced with applications or presentations to the OMB. One way or another the Ontario government rewards those townships that do an SP in advance and consult widely with their community.”
The first phase of WI SP would include a data gathering consultative exercise to identify issues/ concerns/ project objectives and conclude with further public meetings that present policy options, based on the issues, leading to a proposal for the next phase, the development of a Secondary Plan. The SP in no way is intended to slow the process of the MTO Docking, ferry environmental assessment underway but to enhance the input for consideration. The township will submit a Seed Grant Funding Application to the Trillium Foundation to develop the Secondary Plan for Marysville.

2. Concerns Over Water Supply: WI resident Larry Bolton came forward to express his concerns and those of his neighbours regarding to the future use of Metal Craft Marine building ( former Kraft plant), which, based on rumours he had heard, is being negotiated for sale to become the site for a beer making and water bottling facility. (It was known for a plentiful water supply). And it was water that was of concern to Bolton, whose home is in close proximity go the plant. “Water is our most precious resource,” he said. He fears that his own water supply and that of his neighbours would be at risk as a result, basing his concern on increasing climate change, this year’s extreme drought conditions, low water levels with wells running dry, a changing water table and no township waste/water system. (All residents are serviced by wells (dug, drilled, shore) and water bought & brought over. He pointed out that MOE requires a permit to take water and such permit has not been applied for. Note: An MOE permit required if water usage exceeds 50, 000 litres per day. Below that amount a permit from KFLA Heath Unit is required. Bolton called upon council to guard the plant’s natural water resource and advise property owners of any development which would impact their water supply. However, the township will investigate the criteria provided in the protocols as requested by the public.

3. Spring Craft Brewery Project: Mayor Doyle asked Island Grill owner Casey Fisher and Rene Ziegelmaier (Brew Master) to provide an overview of the WI Spring Craft Brewery Project. Fisher , in final negotiations for the purchase of the MetalCraft building ( with an artesian well), stated that the project does not include a water bottling facility at this time, “only beer.” To his knowledge the well only services that site and the water to be used for beer (predicted between 2,000 - 5,000 litres. per day)making is far less than the 50,000 litres a day use requiring an MOE permit
“KFLA Health Unit will oversee water quality requirements and amounts used will be monitored and recorded,” he said. Committed to the WI community, Casey plans to hire locally “provided the expertise is there (3 for November) and local contractors if possible. Within the next few years I project employment could increase to 10-12.”
The bi-product from the beer making process will go to farmers as cattle feed ; local honey will be used for mead and possibly local apples for cider. Currently the Grill uses Okee Farms produce and DeRuiters beef. The Brewery plans to sell locally in bars and beyond.. Mayor Doyle noted that with the information provided the project does not exceed water taking amounts requiring an MOE permit. The Brewery is seen as a good news project for the community.
Much more Council news next time..
Coming Events: **LUNCH BUNCH is back! Wed. October - November, 11:30 a.m. at WI United Church Hall. **Take Back the Night 2016 Sept.22nd @ 6:30pm Kinston’s Confederation Basin Marina,

Posted by M Knott at 11:02 AM
September 07, 2016
A Great Lakes Island Adventure- By Bridge or Ferry

What ‘s there to do when they get here, is a question that comes to mind, as visitors make their way to Wolfe Island on the ferry. A question many of us may ponder now and again Perhaps that’s because we have forgotten what drew us here that first time. So it was wonderful to be reminded of what, not only of Wolfe Island, but the many Great Lakes that surround us have to offer visitors. This happened at an evening of book signing with Maureen Dunphy, author of “Great Lakes Island Escapes: Ferries and Bridges to Adventure.” The thrust of her book is the ability to reach all of the islands listed, by way of a ferry or a bridge.
The book covers islands on both sides of the international border, between the United States and Canada, and features islands in both the lakes and the waterways that connect them. As Maureen spoke, it became quite clear to the audience gathered at WI’s United Church Hall, that her love of islands had begun early in life. That although she resides in Detroit Michigan, and her career involves writing, coaching writers and teaching writing courses, she is an islander in her own right with a family cottage on Pelee Island since 1994, (an island in the western half of Lake Erie connected to the Canadian and United States mainland by ferry), and that she wanted to introduce those accessible islands to others.
“ In 2011 I took a few trial island trips–one in a month of trips visiting the 15 islands closest to my mainland home. After those 15 island trips, another two years passed before I had the money saved, and could take the time off to officially begin my island project,” Dunphy said.
“Between Memorial Day weekend of 2013, and Labour Day 2014, I made a total of 27 trips to 136 Great Lakes Basin islands. These were all of the islands I could find, in the Basin and including the connecting rivers/straits, as well as the five Great Lakes, with public access by ferry or bridge,” she said. “On each of these island trips, I was accompanied by a woman friend or relative, who provided another perspective of the island experience. What amazing island adventures we had.” As Maureen spoke of those visits, including her visit to Wolfe Island, her love of the islands , their history and environment , she brought alive her sense of island magic to those present. (Her book looks at over 30 of the Great Lakes Basin islands accessible by bridge or ferry and touches on more than 50 additional islands. Her presentation included maps and pictures.)
Maureen followed up by taking the audience on a journey of islands in Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, Lake |Michigan and Lake superior. “Anyone can experience the islands if you live in the Great Lakes region, in one of the 8 Great Lake States, or in Ontario. You are not far from a ferry or bridge to have your own adventure. Those further away can plan a trip.”
Shirley Bailey, President Frontenac Heritage Foundation, presented Ms. Dunphy with a gift. Hank Connell president of the WI Historical Society thanked Maureen for her presentation. People stayed on to purchase a signed book, and talk to the author, quite willing to ‘wait for the next ferry’ . The book is available for purchase in Kingston at Chapters.

**Dunphy wrote about Wolfe Island's wind turbines, the Old House Museum, the Wolfe Island Historical Society's Marysville Walking Tour, Café Tenango, the Stone Heron Gallery and Wolfe Island historic mural series.
Each island visited gets a chapter about special events it hosts, resources or learning more about them and suggestions about ways to support the island communities.

Coming Events: ***The WI Plowing Match will be held Sat. Sept. 10th beginning at 9 am at the farm of Henry and Janine Posthumus. 1227 Reeds Bay Rd, Wolfe Island. Contact: Janine Posthumus 613-985-5732 janineandhenry@aol.com or Henry Posthumus 613-561-5732 janineandhenry@aol.com Free Space is available at the match for Vendor Market Place promotions. Bring you own display tables/ booths. *** Frontenac Islands Council meets Mon. Sept.12th, 6:30 pm WI Town Hall. ***VON’s New Free Group Fitness Program Wed & Fridays 1:00 – 2:00 pm St. Margaret’s Hall Registration: Wed Sept. 14, – 1:00pm Classes (led by a certified fitness instructor) start Friday Sept. 16th- 1pm *** 'Skin Flick' by Norm Foster, Domino Theatre, Wed. Sept. 21st. WI Medical Clinic fundraiser) Ticket $20 wicmc.info@gmail.com

Posted by M Knott at 10:05 AM
August 24, 2016
So…It’s time to think about Accessibility!

With Wolfe Islands Division Street extension now under way, along with the Marysville sidewalk, and the proposed accessible washroom and ramp upgrade changes slated to start very soon at the Wolfe Island Community Hall, it seems an appropriate time for a look at what accessible means to all of us. When I was invited to serve as a member of Frontenac County’s Accessibility Advisory Committee, representing Frontenac Islands, I wondered why, although I do use a cane and have some health issues. I said yes, knowing full well I had a lot to learn about the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), enacted by the Ontario Government in 2005. The Act’s goal is a fully accessible province by 2025.
My first thought was as to who are the disabled. The AODA uses the Ontario Human Rights Code definition of “disability”, that is “any degree of physical disability, infirmity, malformation or disfigurement that is caused by bodily injury, birth defect or illness. It includes diabetes, mellitus, epilepsy, a brain injury, any degree of paralysis, amputation, lack of physical co-ordination, blindness or visual impediment, deafness or hearing impediment, muteness or speech impediment, or physical reliance on a guide dog or other animal, or on a wheelchair or other remedial appliance or device. Also impairment or a developmental disability, a learning disability, or a dysfunction in understanding, or using symbols or spoken language, a mental disorder, or a benefits claimed/received for injury/disability under the insurance plan established under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act of 1997.
The Act’s mandatory province wide accessibility standards fall within five areas. They are customer service, employment, information/ communication, transportation, and design of public spaces. All of these 5 areas have different completion timelines between the time since the passage of the act, 2005 and 2025. In Kingston we can see changes happening. More sidewalk cuts to accommodate wheel chairs, hand pushed walkers, bikes and strollers and pedestrians. More benches to stop and rest, for anyone who gets tired. How about the new entry/exit door at Hotel Dieu Hospital, the ‘Stop Gap’ ramps here and there to get in and out of older shops for those having trouble stepping up and over and for strollers, etc. New buildings have wider door widths, automatic door openings, lower door opening buttons that we all take for granted now. Some stores have lower counter levels, wider store aisles and even places to stop and sit. Some businesses & banks accommodate customers with counter heights, for those standing or sitting. Information and communicating is done in a variety of ways and in a variety of situations. In Toronto new buses and new subway steps touch the ground, no step up, its step-in with railings. It is interesting to note that every improvement in any of the five areas seems to not only improve accessibility for those who are by definition disabled, but everyone else, young and old alike. Amazing really. And where that is not happening, it can be very disconcerting.
But getting back to Wolfe Island, there are snags to the business of being barrier free. One is cost. But that applies everywhere. Another is that the design standards for public buildings applies to new construction only and/or very significant changes to an existing facility. Can the door at the WI Town Hall be a wider and a more accessible one ? The ramp resurfaced to meet it? A trip hazard at the Community Hall door? The WI Medical Clinic, Sacred Heart Church, UC Hall are accessible. There is no doubt the Marysville sidewalk replacement will make life easier for islanders and visitors alike, and the improvements at the WI’s Community Hall on Main Street, a wonderful addition as well. But there is more to do. Perhaps it is time for business owners to see what they can do about making their facilities easier to access and barrier free. Will Frontenac Islands ever be barrier free? Will Wolfe Island be accessible by AODA standards? I don’t know. But I did saw a headline that read: ”There are (only) 8 years, till a fully Accessible Ontario! “
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Around Town: Thanks and good luck wishes go to MTO’s Summer Students who graciously dealt with the ferry traffic on WI & Kingston: Dan Bezaire-Arevalo, Jenna Hulton, Mike Makula, Maddy Gorman & Kristina Walker. We will certainly miss you.
Coming Events: **W I Historical: An Ontario Archaeologist’s Anthropological Adventures: from digging in the South Pacific to influencing politics in Nepal, Dr. Terri Lynn Brennan, Wed. Aug. 24th WI United Church 7:30 pm **Great Lakes Island Escape “Ferries and Bridges to Adventure” Maureen Dunphy, Tues. Aug. 30th 7 pm, WI United Church Hall (Book Signing). ** 'Skin Flick' by Norm Foster Domino Theatre, Wed. Sept. 21st. (WI Medical Clinic fundraiser) Ticket $20 wicmc.info@gmail.com ** It’s not too late to donate to WI Heroes http://uhkf.kintera.org/heroes

Posted by M Knott at 09:25 AM
August 11, 2016
It’s hard to believe it is August Already !

It’s hard to believe it is August Already Frontenac Islands August council meeting on Howe Island was a rather “all quiet on the home front” kind of affair, but not to say that it was without issue!
In fact, during the public portion of the meeting to deal with planning applications, led by Frontenac County Community Planner Reid Shepherd, one application that was approved caught everyone’s attention, members of council and the public. Not for what the applicant has planned for the property, but for the demands placed on the property owner as a result of its location. Requirements all related to the environment .

The owner of the Brown’s Bay property on Wolfe Island completed a required EIS (Environmental Impact Study) of the property adjacent to Provincially Significant Wetland to confirm its development will not have a negative effect on the wet lands. And subject to any comments from the Cataraqui Regional Conservation Area (CRCA) the proposal is consistent with Frontenac Islands Official Plan. Now the owner must enter into a registered development agreement with the township with no development until then. There is to be no (over 4 inch) tree/shrub removal except to accommodate a building set back a minimum distance of 40m from the St. Lawrence River high water mark. Within the 30m of the setback closest to the water, no cutting or removal of vegetation or soil disturbance is permitted with the exception of 3m wide pathway. And, finally, there is to be no tree or shrub removal between l April 15- July 30 in compliance with the Migratory Birds Convention Act. The applicant is responsible for the costs of the agreement, the municipality for its compliance. While there was no opposition to the agreement it was noted as being very restrictive and development prohibitive. “Lots to think about when it comes to shore line and trees now,” a resident commented. “Couldn’t do now what we’ve done in the past,” said another.

In his actions report, Public Works Manager Rob Dillabaugh noted among other things that the 2016 WI signage program is 98% complete, and ongoing at Howe; that road side grass cutting will continue till “till the snow flies,”; and that the Division St. construction will begin early August. Following the report, Deputy Mayor Natalie Nossal asked that a proposed feasibility study for Howe Island’s Spit Head Road be added to the list. She also spoke to the work that has been done with reference to the Rural Transportation Initiative. The Transportation project provides rides to appointments, for those unable to get there themselves. Its expansion to Frontenac Islands is dependant on volunteer drivers. Her query was relative to subsidy availability or requirement to start a program and will be followed up by CAO Plumley.

On the basis of a “have you ever asked” question by MTO’s WI ferry and docking improvements EA, Project Manager Tina White, Council will submit a resolution to MTO asking that they take back ownership of Roads 7051, Road #96 through the village and # 95 to Horne’s Point (all downloaded to the township at amalgamation), on the basis that it is an international ferry link. Council has been asking that the EA include the improvements to the roads used by ferry users particularly road 7051 and 95.

In other Business; **Frontenac Islands will be well represented at the Association of Municipalities Conference in Windsor. **Councillor Springgay in response to a request by WI Heroes runner Christina Walker for use of municipal facilities following the upcoming Cancer Run, (Aug. 20th) ‘recommending the Wolfe Island Fire Hall as the best option.’ ** Councillor Higgs spoke to the running achievements of Howe Island resident and athlete Debbie Holtom while Deputy Mayor Nossal acknowledged the efforts of Lana Saunders and the Road Runners Club Race which raised more than $2,500 towards recreation facilities on Howe Island. Further Howe Island Trail may be eligible for Federal Gas Tax Funding for certain trail improvements (gate, benches ,parking). **Too few public benches or public seating areas near/along the ferry lineup was noted by a resident, as well as accessibility issues confronting visitors forcing them to remain in cars in the village and on the ferry. Mayor Doyle then announced a closed meeting.

The next Regular Meeting of Council takes place Sept.12th on Wolfe Island.

Around Town: **There is a total Frontenac County Burning Ban. No Burning Whatsoever. ** How about that very informative Township Newsletter along with tax bill? A new Township web site coming soon. ** Thanks to our Summer students who keep long ferry lines tight and spaces filled. **Big Sandy Bay closes for the season Sept. 5th. What a busy season its been! ** WI Riverfront Golf also very busy and there’s a wonderful breeze off the water.* Have you noticed Trans Alta Wind Tower Technicians way up the towers checking blades these days? Quite a sight. ** For Domino Theatre tickets for ‘Skin Flick’, a play by Norm Foster Sept. 21st (community group fundraiser) Call Linda 385-1947. **Have a Lunch Bunch story to tell about a trip you’ve taken? Call Linda Joy, -2665.
Coming Events: **A 25 km Run for WI Heroes Sat. Aug. 20th 9 am. Join the Run (bike, walk) with Kristina, make a donation at: http://uhkf.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp…. **WI BOAT CLUB 11th Annual Barrett Bay Regatta Sun. Aug. 21st.

Posted by M Knott at 09:20 AM
August 05, 2016
Wolfe Island Family Ball Tournament Bigger than Christmas Holiday

You had to see it to believe it, but every available space at the WI Community Centre grounds was filled pretty much throughout the 31st Family Ball tournament. It is held annually on the August long weekend. This year 30 (extended) family teams began play in the A & B Divisions on Friday evening, at the 3 diamonds located at the centre. The third diamond, recently completed for use, brought the tournament to one location for the first time.
When you think about 30 teams, that’s 9 -15 persons per team equally distributed between women and men, plus alternates, referees and anyone else directly supporting the teams, with water for instance, certainly needed this season considering the high, dry temperatures. And then there was everyone else, relatives of every family team playing, parents, grandparents aunts, uncles, brothers, sisters, and cousins, grand's and great grand's as well as friends, neighbours , interested citizens, and visitors to the island. Surely the water rose as the island sank under the extra weight as they came from all over Canada, the U.S.A. and places beyond. WI is one of the few remaining communities where such a tournament is held.
The event concluded Saturday evening with the awards presentation led by Community Centre Board member Kevin Hulton. This year’s “A” Division winner was the Orr family team & “B” Division winners, the Hawkins Family Team. The ‘Joe Reitzel Memorial Trophy’ for Oldest Average Team was presented to the Rita Hulton Team. The ‘Debbie Knox Memorial Trophy’ for “the team with most dedication and persistence” was awarded to the McCready Family. The ‘Bill Kyle Memorial’ trophy awarded to the Fawcett's; ‘ Lollar Volunteer Award’ to Elwin McKenna. Special thanks given to Ed Etmanski, Dan and Danielle Hogan, and Ben Woodman for their efforts before, and during the tournament at the Centre.
With the covered NHL sized rink and ice plant, 3 ball diamonds with lights, and an area for horse events, and many , many volunteers, the WI Community Centre has become a 1st class community asset.

Posted by M Knott at 09:13 AM
August 04, 2016
Update on the ferry study: What's next?

Members of MTO’s Wolfe Island Ferry and Docking Improvements EA Project team met with Frontenac Islands Council at a public meeting, to discuss feedback about the project that Council has received from the public and the WI Ward Ferry Committee. Present from MTO was Tina White, Project Manager, Heather Roebuck, Regional Operations Officer, Melissa Buelow, Area Manager, and Amanda Grypma, Environmental Planner.

In his opening remarks, Mayor Doyle referred to the 2011 study , (a ferry in Marysville, another at Dawson Pont) noting concerns raised about the scope and size of the Marysville dock alternatives as well as no main street lineup parking, in the present EA study, a deviation away from the original plan. Since the 2011 study the township has been looking at what it would have to do to keep big trucks out of the village of Marysville.

Councillor Grant asked about that 2011concept to which Ms. White indicated new information that might make it possible for two ferries in the village, presenting an opportunity depending on the design of the new vessel. But regardless of that, she said improvements must be undertaken at both the Marysville and Dawson Pont docks.

Frontenac County Planner Joe Gallivan, updated the meeting concerning the planned seniors project and further donated land, that may lead to a bypass road to reroute heavy traffic out of the village to Dawson Point. The township will ask MTO for a 12 month deferral on the design work for the Marysville Dock until council can do planning work required to ensure that a new docking system will be compatible with village growth planning. Planner Gallivan will prepare a report for consideration at the September meeting that will assist council in ensuring the present character of Marysville and its expected growth over the next 20 years.

MTO’s Tina White strongly defended the Marysville study alternatives. She said that council has asked numerous times that MTO improve marshalling and parking. “From our public input I have not heard a majority of people saying, we would not like you to build this. If you have it has not come back to us”… She asked if council or anyone had written to the Minister to have Road 95 or 96 uploaded to the Ministry. “ I strongly suggest a letter regarding that.” She also suggested one to MTO’s Marine Operational Study if there are ideas on how best to operate 2 vessels, also truck and heavy vehicle traffic.

White said the EA Study looks to the future, in this case 20 years and growth, but approval for that doesn’t mean building the whole project at once . A new 75 car vessel means new improvements at the docks to accommodate both boats. Ms Roebuck noted new propulsion and operational studies, whether two vessels all the time, (i.e. shoulder periods), stop lights off and on, marshalling, etc.. Ms. White encouraged council to look at Marysville and Dawson Point as gateways to the community, “ if you have a vision for that gateway let us hear it.”

Councillor Springgay asked Ms. White 3 questions: #1. Is MTO is committed to operating 2 vessels for at least a part of the year. #2. What are the risks of not supporting docking improvements? #3. Will there be a fare?
Answers:#1. Operational question based on many factors. #2. At risk if council formally said they do not support docking improvements. #3. No fare attached to this study, but the Minister can decide at any time to implement fares and better if that happens with an improved service.

Councillor Grant asked “is there enough money for all of this”. Answer: “Yes, being affordable and environmentally sound is our job,” White said. “If you do not want marshalling improved in Maryville or docking enlarged, Council should send a resolution saying so, and that will have consequences. Improvements require dock improvements”.

A representative from City of Kingston, Holly Wilson, attended the meeting. She indicated the city will continue working with MTO relative to their traffic problems and land use now, and the with dual ferry operation in the future.

Questions from residents, mostly from agricultural community, related to lights in Kingston; use of the Amherst Islander on Wolfe when their “boat” arrives; costs of a bridge versus the dock /ferry project; use of both docks for large vehicles; and. ferry loading improvements. Cost comparison of a bridge versus present project came up again and again, as did the importance of the international link, and the shorter route. One resident pointed out that the ferry committee working with the township & MTO summer staff, have improved marshalling & also unloading of the ferry. He said further that with dual ferry operation expected at peak periods, MTO Operations and EA group should re-assess scope and size of Marysville dock . There was a request for another meeting about project costs. In conclusion, Tina White said there would soon be architectural pictures to show what it could all look like at all 3 docks.

Coming Events: A 25 km Run for WI Heroes Sat. Aug. 20th 9 am. Make a donation Join the Run (bike, walk). ***WI BOAT CLUB 11th Annual Barrett Bay Regatta Sun. Aug. 21st.

Posted by M Knott at 12:56 PM
July 27, 2016
Running More and More Popular

That’s what spring, summer and fall, and even the winter are all about in our part of the world - Kingston and the Islands. From early spring runners begin training and are visible on the streets of Kingston, on Howe, Wolfe and Amherst Islands, and areas in between, preparing for the many races coming up during the summer months and yes, the winter months too.
On Howe, islanders prepared for the first KRRA-(Kingston Road Runners Association ) Howe Island 8K Hustle, a run for all ages, and a kids (12 and under) 1-mile race, in early May in support of the HI Baseball/Recreation Fund. It was the first of the three island races known as the “tri-island” series that also includes this year, the (36th annual) Wolfe Island Classic 5k-10 k, always held the July long weekend, (walk if you can’t run) in support of the WI Community Medical Clinic , and the 4th Edition of the 5k-10k “Wooly Bully Races” to be held August 14th on Amherst Island, in support of extracurricular activities at Amherst Island Public School. Along with points, ‘Finisher’ medals will be awarded after this 3rd island race to those who completed all three races. Race results are available KRRA.org

2. Congratulations to Howe Island Resident: Recently Frontenac Islands Howe Island District , Councilor Bruce Higgs, expressed his satisfaction with the races held on Howe Island over the years and especially with the accomplishments of one of Howe Island’s citizens, Deb Holtom. “We are very proud of Deb, our friend and neighbour who has achieved and won many medals for her running abilities,” he said. Deb has also assisted in the organisation of the Howe Island races over the years as well as running in them.

Holtom, who began her running experience in her early fifties now runs in the 60-69 age category. She completed the Ottawa Race Weekend Marathon (42.2km) at the end of May, “ a very hot and humid day and finished in 4:03.,” she said. “ Ottawa Race Weekend is a major international event attracting elite runners from all over the world. There were 42,000 runners that weekend,” she added. Deb’s most recent race was at the Calgary Stampede Half Marathon (21.1km) on July 10th. “I finished in 1:49:44 and placed first in my age category as well. I also placed 25th out of 307 female runners.”
Holtom has done well in all of her races over the past few years and continues to improve her race times. She placed first in her age category in the KRRA series as well as first overall in the age graded standings. Deb will compete in the final Wooly Bully Races in the “tri-Island series” Aug. 14 on Amherst Island.

FYI Some interesting stats from the WI Classic Road Race indicate that runners came from a variety of places including: Vermont, Hawaii, Ohio, Quebec, Pennsylvania, Prince Edward Island, British Columbia, New York, South Carolina, Connecticut, Maryland, Manitoba, North Carolina, and of course, Ontario.

3. At the same time AS ALL THIS RUNNING IS GOING ON, the Wolfe Island Boat Club season is in full operation offering kids programs, rowing, sailing, Dragon boating, canoeing, kayaking as well as preparing for the regatta in August. The Club’s mandate is to promotes small boat activities, powered by oar, paddle, or sail. And how wonderful it is to see so many boats in the bay, and the enthusiasm of the youngest sailors in particular.

4. Around Town:** Congratulations go out to Kingston Rowing Club athletes who won four medals, including two golds, at the Ontario Rowing championships, because they must be good, AND because one of their number includes Wolfe Islander Kristina Walker. The gold medalists were Chloe DesRoche in senior women’s singles, and the senior women’s four of Cassidy Deane, Heather MacMillan, Jenna Adams and Kristina Walker. Adams and Walker also won silver medals in the under-23 women’s pair. Kristina is a member of MTO’s team of hardworking students directing ferry traffic on Wolfe Island and in Kingston this summer. She is undertaking a 25 k fund raising run on Wolfe Island, Sat. August 20th in support of WI Heroes (victims of cancer). You can join her and/or donate in support of Kristina’s efforts in-person, or by calling UHKF at 613-549-5452 or a gift online. *** The lack of rain is extremely worrisome, farmers are deeply concerned, wells are at risk, ponds are drying up, cisterns are empty, etc… water trucks come regularly. **Very busy ferry every day. …

Coming Events: A 25km Run for WI Heroes Sat. Aug. 20th 9 am. Make a donation Join the Run. ***WI BOAT CLUB 11th Annual Barrett Bay Regatta Sun. Aug. 21st.

Posted by M Knott at 12:43 PM
July 21, 2016
A Run for Wolfe Island Heroes

A few days ago at the ferry dock in Kingston, Kristina Walker, one of MTO’s hard working summer employees, stopped by our car during a pause in regulating traffic. She wanted to talk about a personal project she has undertaken. On August 20th, Kristina, daughter of Maryanne and Garth Walker (WI Corn Maze) will be running 25km in support of local residents of Wolfe Island battling cancer, and collect donations for the Cancer Centre of Southeastern Ontario. What she wanted to talk about was her reason for the undertaking the race, clearly identified in the notices of the race posted on the ferry, on the internet etc.. “Cancer affects everyone. During the past few years we have witnessed a growing number of our friends, family and neighbours bravely fighting this terrible disease. In a small community like Wolfe Island, the sudden tragedy of cancer striking one of our friends has left many of us feeling helpless and wanting to show our support in a positive way.” Adding, on this occasion, ”Wolfe Island Heroes and many so young.”
Kristina Walker invites everyone to join her on August 20th at any point in the 25km run ( to walk, run, bike) as much as they can to show support for these “Wolfe Island Heroes.” The run, dedicated to all Islanders who have fought or are still fighting cancer, and to those who have lost their lives to this tragic disease, begins at 9 am from the foot of Wolfe Island and will end in Marysville where, in partnership with Fargo’s General store, a BBQ will follow at 12 noon.
Donations will be collected online through people sponsoring runners and during the event. Pledge forms are also available to anyone who wish to raise funds or seek sponsorship for their portion of the run, walk or bike. If anyone is interested in getting involved, volunteers are needed to make the event run smoothly. Email wolfeislandheroes@gmail.com with any questions.

Please note, proceeds of the run will be donated directly to the Kingston Cancer Clinic (University Hospitals Kingston Foundation). The UHKF was created in 2005 as the joint fundraising arm of Hotel Dieu Hospital, Kingston General Hospital and Providence Care amalgamated (2014), with the foundations at each of the hospitals creating the new UHKF organization, responsible for fundraising, granting, distribution and reporting. You can donate in support of Kristina Walker’s efforts in-person, or by calling UHKF at 613-549-5452 or by making a gift online.
2. Stones and Stained Glass: Special Collection
A recent bulletin announcement about Wolfe Island’s Sacred Heart of Mary Church, by Pastor Fr. Raymond de Sousa, outlined the work that has been done over the years to maintain the church in good order, a beautiful church as Father put it “which previous generations built and maintained”, and the need for a parish “Stones and Stained Glass” Special Collection. He noted the most recent stone work done by the late Gerald Eves in 2013, with some work remaining, along with trough and drain replacement, all of which will require a lift. The Marian Grotto stonework is completed. It will be re-dedicated Sun. Aug. 28 after Sunday Mass. Stone work at all old stone buildings is a regular requirement.
But it was the news that the stained glass windows need care that came as a shock. Anyone who has ever been inside the church can’t help but notice their outstanding beauty. “Three of them (blue background colour) need rebuilding due to significant warping or bowing, one in the chapel, and two windows on the east wall on either side of the church entrance. Further work is required in the main church around the windows, where they open and close, wooden window sills, window sashes and encasements. Repairs for all of this will cost in the thousands of dollars”.
I remember my first visit to Sacred Heart of Mary Church. I was struck immediately by its beauty, the obvious care it received and the pride of the parish community (many relatives of those whose generosity and hard work built it), who continue to maintain it. The work will get done Ask about its history when you visit the Old House Museum on Wolfe Island.

Around Town:* It is surprising how busy the ferry is these days at most times of day on both sides.. and the number of service vehicles coming and going. No rain means many wells and ponds are going dry. Water trucks keep arriving.

Coming Events: ** Fish Fry St. Margaret’s Hall July 29th, 4:30 – 7:00 pm Adults $15.00 Under 12- $6.00 Take-outs. Cash only at the door **ART SHOW Blow Out Sale Paintings by Linda Sutherland July 30,31,Aug.1 @ The WI Grill 10 am to 5pm. Questions; call 613 385 2710. ***Friends of Ferals Garage Sale July 30th. To donate call Cheryl 613 385-1443. **A 25km Run for WI Heroes Sat. Aug. 20th 9 am. Make a donation Join the Run. ***WI BOAT CLUB 11th Annual Barrett Bay Regatta Sun. Aug. 21st.

Posted by M Knott at 12:35 PM
July 19, 2016
Frontenac Islands Audit Report --Presented at July Meeting

The July 11th meeting of Frontenac Islands Council may have marked the last meeting where KPMG’s Senior Manager Vicki Leakey presents the township’s 2015 Consolidated Financial Statements and audit report. Rumours of Vicki’s retirement have surfaced before, so one never knows, nor does she for sure. Presenting a “clean” audit report, she had some good things to say, some cautionary and some recommendation. Cash, investments and receivables were $4.4 million, an increase of $120,000. from last year and liabilities totaled $1.8 million, down slightly. Revenues were $4 million, up $400,000 from 2014 and expenses, including depreciation of $1.3 million, totalled $4.5 million. Overall reserves at year’s end were $3.0 million and represented 85 % of operating expenses. Leakey was presented with a small gift by Mayor Doyle as a reminder with thanks, for her many years of service to the township. “You are welcome here any time, Vicki,” Doyle said. With Vicki on this occasion, was KPMG partner Lori Humber.
In other business council approved the appointment of Marcelle Lavigne as Chief Building Official, and Ken Barrington as Building Inspector, for the township. A 6-year period has elapsed and the purpose of the new by-law is to remove the “acting” from the Chief Building Official’s title and to confirm the Building Inspector position.
Council adopted a Limited Service agreement, for limited maintenance (road grading), on private roads to address numerous requests. (important word here is limited.)
Public Works Manager Rob Dillabaugh, as always, had interesting report that included what had been going on, what is to be completed, and what’s planned for. This time he noted that roadside grass cutting, up to many fence lines, has made it easier for drivers to see deer coming. Ongoing work includes planning for work at Simcoe Island ferry docks; stump grinding, to start once tree cutting is completed on Howe; the WI Community Hall (behind the Town Hall) project for accessible wash rooms and ramp upgrades requires toxic substances remediation done; the water line for the WI Seniors project and Fire Hall is 95% complete; Howe Island surplus equipment is posted on HI web site; HI Drive next for shoulder work.
CAO Plumley reported the water line and road survey as completed, the letter of intent for land transfer under review, and the Division St. extension design completed for the Seniors project. The paving work will also include rebuild of sidewalks ( 2 corners) to Marysville dock and Rd. #96 (accessible)
The material. prepared for Frontenac Islands Mayor Doyle, Councillor Springgay and CAO Plumley’s July 4th meeting with MPP Sophie Kiwala ,was included. It expressed council’s concerns with elements of MTO’s Environmental Assessment Preliminary Design Study and has been forwarded to MTO Senior Project Manager Tina White with a request for a Special Meeting of Council to review those concerns with them. The WI Ward Ferry Committee is concerned with the magnitude of the massive shoreline invasion to the environment and to the small community, as proposed in the docking improvement alternatives recently presented to the public.
The next regular meeting of Council will be held on Howe Island in August.
Of Community interest: Prior to the call to order for the Frontenac Islands July meeting, Councillor Springgay and CAO Darlene PLumley expressed delight, satisfaction and anticipation in advance of the community social event to be held at the Wolfe Island Community Centre grounds, and “Under the Roof” of the Rink where Wolfe Island’s many volunteers will be acknowledged and thanked for their efforts. Springgay reminded everyone of the importance of the Volunteer Appreciation Evening, while CAO Plumley expressed pleasure with the generosity of the sponsors and for the many prizes donated for the occasion. A light hearted moment on a warm summer evening.
Around Town: * WI Classic_ It was a beautiful day for the 36th WI Classic Race sponsored by the WI Community Medical Clinic. “Almost 450 runners and walkers registered,100 more than last year but still short of our record of 506,” according to president Linda Thomas. “WI’s Jack Posthumus our oldest runner at 89 completed the 5k run, but was missed in getting a medal, an error since corrected. Congrats to Jack and thanks to the faithful volunteers without whom the race wouldn't be the great time it is. Thanks to Pat and Tom who host everyone at the end of it. - seeing the puppies and being able to cool off in the lake is a wonderfully unique part of our WI Classic. See you next year.”
FYI: The Tri-Island Race Series is made up of 3 road races, the Howe Island Hustle 8k race in May, the WI Classic 5-10k in July and finally the Amherst Island Wooly Bully 5-10k races & 1k for kids Sun. Aug. 14, 2016. Runners who complete all 3 events will be awarded the Tri-Island Series medal. (Completing the 10k Wooly is required for the medal)
Coming Events: ** Fish Fry St. Margaret’s Hall Friday July 29th, 4:30 – 7:00 pm (Mike Mundell) Adults $15.00 Under 12- $6.00 Take-outs Available .Cash only at the door .***Friends of Ferals Garage Sale Sat. July 30th for a great cause. Have donations? Contact Cheryl Gurnsey at 613 385-1443. **WI BOAT CLUB 11th Annual Barrett Bay Regatta Sun. Aug. 21st. **Friends of WI Music Fesival Music Series July 21st, Margaret’s Hall The Barn Dogs & Kasador Show at 8pm Tickets $15.00 Grad Club, Fargo’s.

Posted by M Knott at 10:19 AM
July 06, 2016
Wolfe Island Ferry Study: Concerns Raised with MPP Sophie Kiwala

Wolfe Island Ferry Study: Concerns Raised with MPP Sophie Kiwala Frontenac Island Mayor Doyle, Councillor Barbara Springgay, and CAO Darlene Plumley met recently with MPP Sophie Kiwala to raise concerns regarding the Environmental Assessment Preliminary Design Study (dock improvements) for the Wolfe Island ferry service, recently released to the public for comment.

“The focus of the meeting with MPP Kiwala was on the large environmental foot print of the dock changes that were presented for the Marysville dock, which is a major deviation from the 2011 planning study portion of the Environmental Assessment, all without having been advised or asked for input on such major and unnecessary changes prior to MTO presenting the proposal to the public,” Mayor Doyle said following the meeting. Design alternatives were presented in June by the Morrison Hershfield study team, for docking improvements at the Dawson Point and Marysville terminals at a public Information Centre. The alternatives presented for Marysville eliminate entirely the ferry line in the village. Instead the 3 alternatives presented include major dock extensions (up to 500 ft. into the water) to accommodate all the vehicle marshalling and parking involved. The Dawson Point alternatives include major land acquisitions or extensions, similar to those proposed for Marysville, also into the water.

“We presented our position, that yes, changes are required at the Marysville dock to make it more accessible, to better handle walk on and bicycle traffic, with perhaps a ferry controlled light at Fargo's corner to speed up unloading of the ferry” , Doyle said. “ But the proposed changes presented (by the study team) would totally change the shoreline of our quaint little village, are unnecessary and financially unjustifiable. Too much.” Doyle noted that the township bylaw has been recently changed to better control and speed up loading of the ferry lineup. “We feel that once everyone does their part to live by the rules of the ferry line (well described with signs along the route), we will have no problem loading fast enough to keep the ferry on schedule,” adding that the bylaw officer and summer MTO staff will be encouraging this over the next few weeks. Mayor Doyle also noted discussion about the planned new 75 car ferry which, once in place, with the Wolfe Islander will allow more vehicles to leave the island requiring less parking in the village . “There is the need for a ferry Road 7051 rebuild to Dawson Point to handle commercial/agricultural/service truck traffic to and from the island.”

The reference material left with MPP Kiwala stresses the importance of promoting fiscally responsible options for improving the Wolfe Island ferry service, and its importance as an international link to the United States. It notes concerns raised by citizens, (environmental, costs etc.), proposes municipal alternatives including a Marysville and Dawson Point dock terminal for pedestrians. All is available on the township web site. Further Municipal concerns were also brought to MPP Kiwala’s attention (senior housing; school closures/amalgamation; OPP billing formula re wind towers; bio waste. MPP Kiwala said she will review Frontenac Islands- Wolfe Island Ward’s- concerns.

Coming Events: *Family Ball Tournament Sign Up at the WI Town Hall Sat. July 16th. **Anglican Parish Fund Raiser Fish Fry St. Margaret’s Hall, Friday July 29th Fish by Mike Mundell 4:30- 7pm Adults $15.00 **MUSIC SERIES…St. Margaret’s Hall July 21st. 7 pm ; August 5th.

Posted by M Knott at 10:13 AM
June 28, 2016
Something To Think About.. Waiting for the Ferry

Recently Wolfe Islanders received a notice from the township in their mail boxes, issued June 27th, about the upcoming long weekend, commencing with Canada Day on Friday July 1st, and the events that that will take place on the island that will be over when you read this. The reason for the notice, while extolling the events, had more to do with the ferry service and what we were to expect as a result. It called for our patience during the busy weekend and for all to enjoy what the weekend had to offer.
The Canada Weekend is to include a ‘Pancake Breakfast’ on Canada Day, itself July 1st, and the 3rd annual Wolfe Island ‘Round Up’ on July 2nd and 3rd. The notice reminded us that the trailers coming for the ‘Roundup’ would begin arriving on the Friday a.m. ferry throughout the remainder of the day, with one given priority each trip from Kingston, and on the Sunday the ferry would be busy transporting trailers home.
Much more was planned for the weekend with a “Dance under the Rink Roof,” our wonderful winter skating facility with ‘Little California’ slated to play. And of course on Sunday July 3rd there is the Annual 37th Wolfe Island Classic 5-10 k road race which will draw hundreds of people to the island, all encouraged to leave behind cars (if they can) and to walk onto the ferry that lands in Marysville where the race begins. And of course it is also the American long weekend which means friends and family coming to their island cottages from far and wide via the Wolfe Islander III and via Horne’s Ferry from Cape Vincent.
Also on the same date June 27th, a notice was issued about ferry boarding etiquette particularly when travelling from Wolfe Island to Kingston. On Wolfe Island, Marysville’s delineated ferry line extends along the northerly limits of Road #96 and is identified for the exclusive use of vehicles waiting to board the ferry. Vehicles are not to block driveways or intersections and are required to pull up to pavement hash marks directly behind the last vehicle in line closest to the front of the ferry line leaving no space vacant for someone to slip into. Summer students direct ferry traffic in the line. However, the line up is not visible from one end to the other and requires the cooperation of all who join it at its northerly end, wherever it is . The exceptions of course are medical emergencies and specific boarding priorities.
Expectations were high following last summer’s ferry service crisis and late return of the Wolfe Islander to Marysville. So with the importance of summer for tourism, business and development to Wolfe Island, the island welcomes tourists, guests, travellers and workers, coming and going whether by car, bike, walking , or service vehicle in ever increasing numbers causing some delay and longer wait times. What was forgotten since then, is that we lacked ferry capacity with the Wolfe Islander long before last summer, (initiating the present WI docking and ferry EA), and we are lacking capacity so much more Now… Amherst Island has been promised a new ferry sooner than later. Maybe when that happens the Frontenac II could operate along with the Wolfe Islander III to provide some of that much needed extra capacity for the Island. In the mean time, expect delays, be patient, listen to the summer students and as always, Welcome to Wolfe Island..

Posted by M Knott at 10:31 AM
June 26, 2016
Frontenac Islands June Council Highlights..

Frontenac Islands June Council meeting was held on Howe Island. Always a pleasure to go over, particularly by way of the foot ferry at the east end of Howe along the shore line where from there Wolfe Island doesn’t look so far away. And at this meeting as always on Howe Island the chairs for the public were filled with interested citizens.

While there were no planning applications, during the approval of minutes a question came up about the development charges meetings held in May. A resident was concerned about two aspects of the Development Charges – firstly, that the charge was not high enough, and secondly, that he did not understand or agree with the weighted allocation of potential development charge revenue to particular areas of application. To the latter, Deputy Mayor Natalie Nossal mentioned that this allocation could be altered if council deemed it necessary.

Council formalized the discussions that took place in May with the passage of 2 bylaws, the first to establish
to establish development charges for the township; and the second was to amend the parking by-law specifically for Marysville under parking infractions, more specifically for vehicles waiting in a ferry line (no driveway/intersection blocking, must park directly behind the last vehicle closest to the front of the ferry line leaving a maximum of a metre from the vehicle in front) the latter recommended by Councillor Grant, instead of the .5 metre originally considered. With regulations, it will be much easier to call upon the by law enforcement officer to issue tickets if necessary.

Council received, as information from the Howe Island ferry committee, 2 recommendations, one to establish a contingency fund for the winter operation of the Howe Island foot ferry, and secondly to allocate funds set aside from development charges for a study to determine full year operation options for the ferry.

WI Senior Housing Development Project- The Township has posted on their web site a public invitation to those interested in serving on Wolfe Island ‘Senior Housing Board of Directors’ to submit an application. The deadline for submissions is July 4th. Applications are available at the WI Town Hall or the township’s web site: municipality.frontenacislands.on.ca

For your information: The township has authorized that the 11 pm curfew at the Community Centre grounds can be extended from 11pm to 1 am on 3 different occasions this summer: First- The Community Centre Dance (WI Round UP) Sat. July 2nd Next- The Volunteer Appreciation Dance Friday July 15th . and 3RD—The Community Centre Board Dance Friday Aug 26th . The CCB will operate a fund raising cash bar on that occasion.

A letter has gone to Kingston councillor Richard Allen on his election to the Caucus of the Ontario board of the Canadian Federation of Municipalities.

A reminder: during the Kiddie race, Sunday July 3rd , part of the Wolfe Island Classic race, Road 96 is closed from the General Wolfe Hotel to the WI Town Hall from 9:00 to 9:10 am.
It was Mayor Doyle’s Birthday so the meeting ended with cake and the singing of Happy Birthday.
Council meets next at the Wolfe Island Town Hall, July 11th at 6:30 pm

Around Town: Beautiful flower pots springing up around Marysville these days thanks to our ‘Bloom’in’ Gardiners. **Wonderful to see the island ladies at the United Church hall for Afternoon Tea.. WONDERFUL HATS.** Received photos showing the Gen. Wolfe Hotel Dock filled with boats and remembered our daughter Chris telling us THAT when she was a student working with the Canadian Coast Guard how she and crew, when patrolling the waters in a Zodiac between Kingston and Brockville, would often stop by for lunch. She knew about the island long before we did. Great to see so many boats coming to the Island Grill, many kids swimming at the Boat Club dock . The Art Gallery is Open. The Old House Museum so busy. Congratulations to the WI Historical Society on the recognition they received from the Historical Society of Ontario..**The Riverfront Golf Course is lush.. The smells from the bakery. Oh so sweet… The trees , so amazingly full. No tornado for us, just the wonderful rain that was needed.

Coming Events: Canada Day Pancake Breakfast July 1st 9 - 11AM Wolfe Island United Church hall $5.00 per person. ** Wolfe Island Classic , July 3 at 9:30. You are encouraged to walk if you cannot run. Come join the fun. And Happy Canada Day to all..

Posted by M Knott at 10:05 AM
June 19, 2016
Wolfe Island Historical Society Awarded for Excellence

Since its inception, the Wolfe Island Historical Society has played an important role in the community bringing to light the many stories of the island’s people , their lives, their history and the situations that one previously could only imagine island communities like Wolfe and Simcoe Islands could tell. Recalling the day the Society was born is easy.
An invitation went out to the community inviting anyone interested “in forming a historical society” to a meeting at the General Wolfe Hotel. It came from a relatively new resident , the late Victoria Stewart, and Theresa Broeders . “Vicki” , a Canadian history enthusiast was fascinated with Wolfe Island’s stories. Theresa (MacDonald) Broeders, is island born and raised. And people came. They too interested in island history.
An executive was formed and plans for the future were discussed. Named to the executive: President-Captain Brian Johnson; Vice President-Hank Connell; Secretary, Vicki Stewart; Treasurer Brian MacDonald. John O’Shea, and Donna Ivy were among others attended. The proposed mission of the society was “ to protect, promote and preserve the heritage of Wolfe Island.” The immediate areas of interest , which remain today, included genealogy of island families and general island history. Now also included is accumulating heritage items for the “Old House “ Museum which itself came about in the intervening years, as well as the WIHS’s wonderful publication ‘Windword’ and its many,“ WIHS Presents” events.
Recently WIHS president Hank Connell called to say the WIHS was to receive the annual Scadding Award of Excellence, from the Ontario Historical Society at their AGM at Queens Park, Toronto on June 11th (The WIHS was recommended for consideration by Islander Ken Keyes). Here follows what was read by Rob Leach (OHS) on that occasion:

“The Ontario Historical Society is pleased to present the 2015 Scadding Award of Excellence to the Wolfe Island Historical Society. The Award is presented to a historical society or heritage group that has made an outstanding contribution to the field of history. The WIHS was founded in 2005 by a small, but dedicated group to protect, preserve and promote the heritage of Wolfe Island. The Society, in cooperation with the Marine Museum of the Great Lakes at Kingston, has focussed on the Island’s history because of its prominence in lumbering, shipbuilding and transportation. The Society has made significant contributions to the history of the Great Lakes through its lecture series, the restoration of heritage monuments and the annual publication of Windword, a journal dedicated to the heritage of Wolfe Island. That this group continues to conduct activities like this , along with walking tours and making their newsletters publicly accessible from a population base of only 1200 people is truly remarkable. The group has presented talks on genealogy, cemeteries, the War of 1812, Light House preservation, the history of Carleton Island and James Wolfe. The impact the Society has had on the Island is notable in the people it attracts to visit and tour the Island. The Society’s collection of artifacts is housed in a facility owned by the Township of Frontenac Islands and is a well respected and much-visited facility. (Old House Museum). In addition to everything else that this dynamic group is doing, it has an arrangement with the Archives of Queen’s University for the deposit of important historical documents. The Wolfe Island Historical Society is truly deserving of the Ontario Historical Society’s 2015 Scadding Award.”

Present to Receive the Award : Hendry “Hank” Connell, Brian MacDonald, Brian Johnson and Ken Keyes. COULD WE BE ANY PROUDER!

Posted by M Knott at 09:56 AM
June 17, 2016
Wolfe Island Ferry and Docking Improvements Study well underway

If Wolfe Islanders had any reservations about the ongoing Morrison Hershfield’s WI Ferry and Docking Improvements Preliminary Design and Class EA Study, or the value of their attendance at second (CAG) Community Advisory Group meeting , they were not evident. The CAG consists of a broad cross-section providing a community perspective for MTO .
Morrison Hershfield’s Mike Bricks, Environmental Planner, gave a summary of the first CAG meeting, and overview of the Public Information Centre (PIC) Meetings held in Kingston (30-35 people) and at Sacred Heart school in Marysville attended by 110-130 people, where most were interested in how the service would be operated. “ The focus of this CAG meeting is to look at (docking) alternatives so that we can refine the positive and the negative options and make a decision.” Participants were invited to rank ( not rate) the impacts of the alternatives based on environment transportation and finally cost. Some one asked, “Under cost we are assuming the fee schedule is the same as it is today” to which meeting facilitator Glenn Pothier, replied “that’s the assumption.”
Hershfield’s Edward Yi outlined the docking scenarios (including Kingston) The SS 4 option : (Dual Ferry Operations-Year Round Access to Marysville), drew many questions related to Marysville businesses and what ferry goes where, when? What SS4’s “year round access” means in this case is the proposed docks can receive whatever ferry comes to Marysville. Dual ferry operation means one ferry operating from Marysville and one from Dawson Point. MTO will determine what will serve the community best. The docks will provide the flexibility for 140 cars per hour. “We are looking at the new vessel’s power specifications at the same time, so that we can maintain the hourly schedule.” Heather Roebuck noted the extra dock in Marysville for ‘emergencies “so there is always an operational ramp available. It is our hope never to use it. If we don’t build it now it is never going to happen.”
CAG members and observers studied the ferry dock scenarios for Marysville, Dawson Point and Kingston, offering yea’s or nays, suggestions, ideas and possible changes. All feedback, received will be evaluated based on the criteria leading to the technically preferred alternative. One note stated, “save the Kingston terminal.” To a budget question, MTO’s Tina White said, “the government has funded this project. We are working with a naval architect so, as we do boat specs, we are sure our docks will accommodate and vice versa. Building a boat is a design build process different from the dock improvement process. The goal, is complete integration of all the vessels, Frontenac 2, a new 40 car ferry and the proposed 75 car ferry”.

Mayor Doyle noted feedback he was receiving was concerned with costs. And so it went.. The 2nd PIC is tentatively set for winter 2017. NB- The Project Team is anxious to hear from the public.. Find the PIC/CAG Round 1, reports at: www.wolfeislandferryea.ca/, and submit comments, concerns, or contact team members directly.

Coming Events: 1. On Saturday and Sunday June 25th and 26th, the Kingston Amateur Radio Club will hold it's annual Field Day, an emergency preparedness exercise, at 1558 Road 96, Wolfe Island . See how amateur radio, known as 'ham radio,’ works and how local ‘hams’ prepare to communicate via radio during emergency situations. Come, check it out. (Local 'hams' worked closely with official emergency service organizations during the 1998 ice storm). For further information contact Radio Club president Paul Taenzer (VA3LX), at 613-385-1226. FYI Vice Pres. is Carlyle Crothers . 2. WI Talent Night with Chris Brown , WI United Church Sun. June 26th at 7 pm. Amateur/professional talent. Call Margaret to participate 813-385-2900. 3.Strawberry Social, June 26th 1pm- 3pm St. Margaret’s Hall $6 pp. 4.W I Road Race July 3rd 9:30 am start.

Posted by M Knott at 09:51 AM
June 12, 2016
Open and Transparent Ferry Improvement Discussions Underway

Open and Transparent Ferry Improvement Discussions Underway If Wolfe Islanders had any reservations about the ongoing Wolfe Island Ferry and Docking Improvements Preliminary Design and Class EA Study, or the value of the second (CAG) Community Advisory Group meeting they were attending, they certainly were not evident. The CAG consists of a broad cross-section of the community providing a community perspective for MTO
Morrison Hershfield’s Mike Bricks, Environmental Planner, gave a summary of the first CAG meeting, and overview of the Public Information Meetings held in Kingston (30-35 people) and at Sacred Heart school in Marysville attended by 110-130 people, where most were interested in how the service would be operated. “ The focus of this meeting is to look at (docking) alternatives so that we can refine the positive and the negative options and make a decision.”
Participants were invited to consider the impacts of the alternatives based on environment ( socio economic , natural, cultural, (including churches); transportation (vehicle-vessel operation; active transportation operations; constructability) and finally cost, and submit the evaluation form then or later. “It’s a ranking not a rating, 1 to 7 in the spots available.” From out of the crowd some one said, “Under cost we are assuming the fee schedule is the same as it is today?” to which Independent Facilitator Glenn Pothier, who the fielded questions leading the group through the meeting agenda, replied “that’s the assumption.”
Hershfield’s Morrison’s Edward Yi outlined the docking scenarios (including Kingston) all of which will allow access by both boats. MTO’s Project Manager Tina White and MTO team members also answered questions.
The SS 4 option : (Dual Ferry Operations-Year Round Access to Marysville), drew many questions related to Marysville businesses and what ferry goes where, when? What SS4’s “year round access” means in this case is the proposed docks can receive whatever ferry comes to Marysville, the Wolfe Islander 3 or a new 75 car ferry. Dual ferry operation means one ferry operating from Marysville and one from Dawson Point essentially, and MTO will conduct an operational study to determine what will serve the community best. The docks will provide the flexibility for 140 cars per hour. “We are looking at the new vessel’s power specifications, at the same time so that we can maintain the hourly schedule.” Heather Roebuck noted the extra dock in Marysville for ‘emergencies’ “so there is always an operational ramp available. It is our hope never to use it, If we don’t build it now it is never going to happen.”
Following the presentation CAG members and observers enthusiastically engaged in looking at the ferry dock scenarios presented for Marysville, Dawson Point and Kingston, offering brief yea’s or nays, clear suggestions, ideas and possible changes to each of them by way of post-it notes placed on the enlarged docking plans mounted for that purpose. All of the feedback, notes, letters, emails etc. received from the public will be evaluated based on the criteria (as above) leading to the a technically preferred alternative. One note stated “Save the historic Kingston terminal.”
All will be gathered and considered.
There were questions:” Is there a budget.? MTO’s Tina White said that “the current government has funded this project. What we need we will build .” What about the new boat? White said, “We are working together with a naval architect so as we do specs for the boat we are sure our docks will accommodate and vice versa. To build a boat is a design build process different from the dock improvement process. “ What about Amherst Island ? “Docks will be built to accommodate the Amherst Islander, Frontenac 2, the new 40 car ferry with side loading, and possibly (?) the 75 car ferry The goal, is complete integration of all the vessels.” Mayor Doyle said the feedback he was receiving was concern with costs. And so it went.. many questions and answers. The 2nd Public Information Centre is scheduled tentatively for winter 2017.
NB- The Project Team is anxious to hear from the public.. Please review the Public Information Centre Round 1, 2016 reports at: www.wolfeislandferryea.ca/ and submit comments, concerns, or contact team members directly.
(This study is different from past studies. MTO formally initiated the Environmental Assessment (EA) Process.which when completed allows them to proceed to the next step and ultimately to construction.)

Around Town;* The Wolfe Island Historical Society will receive the the Ontario Historical Society 2016 “Scadding Award of Excellence” June 11th at Queen’s Park according to WIHS President Hank Connell. The Scadding Award, recognizes a historical society or heritage group that has made an outstanding contribution to the field of history. Congratulations. More next week (I hope). https://www.ontariohistoricalsociety.ca ** Its all about Ham Radio:On Saturday and Sunday June 25th and 26th, The Kingston Amateur Radio Club will be holding it's annual Field Day, an emergency preparedness exercise, on Wolfe Island at 1558 Road 96. Come and see how amateur radio, known as 'ham radio,’ works and how local ‘hams’ prepare to communicate via radio during emergency situations. Come by and check it out. (Local 'hams' worked closely with official emergency service organizations during the 1996 ice storm). For further information contact Paul Taenzer (VA3LX) at 613-385-1226. FYI- Paul is president of the Radio Club. Another islander Carlyle Crothers, is vice president.
Coming Events: WI Boat Club 4th Annual Open House & Try-It Day! Saturday June 18th, 2016 from 11:30 - 3:00 ** WI Classic Road Race, Sun. July 3rd 9:30 am start. **The WI Round UP is the same weekend..

Posted by M Knott at 09:31 AM
June 02, 2016
Public Information Centre: An Eye Opener

Wolfe Islanders had their first look at what might happen to the ferry docks in Marysville and at Dawson Point (as well in Kingston) with the addition of a new 75 car ferry, and the continuing operation of the Wolfe Islander 111,, at the first Public Information Centre held at Sacred Heart School as part of the environmental process for this massive project.
While there was no public presentation Ministry of Transportation (MTO) personnel were present along with the Morrison Hershfield team (retained to complete the preliminary design and class EA study for the WI Ferry and docking improvements including Kingston), to answer questions, explain the process, the alternatives and to hear the opinions from members of the public . They encouraged the public to submit their comments, concerns, ideas, etc. in writing before leaving the open house, all to be added to the study report and posted. And very many did, some happily, others not so much. The result of this study will lead to a technical alternative, and the environmental requirements . Then its MTO’s turn with a completed EA to proceed to detail design and construction , for what is expected to address long term needs. ( For 20, or maybe 40years?)
Perhaps what was surprising for everyone was the massive expansion of all 3 docks, along with parking and marshalling areas identified in the board drawings arranged around the school gym. Nor was the idea of the 75 car ferry going to Marysville in the minds of Wolfe Islanders originally. The 2011 study led us to understand that the Wolfe Islander 111 would dock at Marysville, and the new larger 75 car ferry would dock at Dawson Point. The change to that scenario comes with docking plans providing the flexibility for both ferry’s to access Marysville . It identifies a dual ferry operation with year round access to Maryville and the flexibility for both ferries to access both island ferry terminals. In both cases requiring dredging in Marysville. What is clear in these alternatives is that if both ferries were to use the village dock, massive infrastructure would be required.
The design pictures are daunting for the amateur ( like myself), but all four dock plan scenarios for Marysville include space for two ferry dockings. All the parking and marshalling of vehicles are in the dock area, nothing on the street or in the village. These Marysville scenarios require major extensions into the water and significant dredging . Three of the scenarios for Marysville show a signalized intersection light for leaving the boat. The 4th does not. No change to turning right or left into Marysville.
At Dawson Point, four scenarios require the acquisition of land for parking and marshalling while two show most parking and marshalling into an extended dock into the water. The documents indicate different marshalling patterns for large trucks and smaller vehicles, and different locations for amenities (waiting rooms etc.).
For the Kingston dock there are 3 three scenarios, indicating changes and all parking /marshalling east of Ontario Street, requiring major extensions into the water. The Kingston Public Information Centre was held on June 2nd.
What’s next is the evaluation of all the alternatives (feedback received) and based on the socio economic, natural, and cultural environment, transportation factors, and cost, and to select a technically preferred alternative. The 2nd Public Information Centre is scheduled tentatively for winter 2017.
NB- The Project Team is anxious to hear from you. Please review the Public Information Centre Round 1, 2016 report at: www.wolfeislandferryea.ca/ and submit your comments.They are important to the process.
Around Town: 1. The WI Medical Clinic held its AGM at which time Bev Sherman and Jim Vanden Hoek were elected to the Clinic’ s Board of Directors. Completing terms were Susan O’Reilly and Hugh Cowan (with thanks). There was a special update on Lyme disease and information regarding VON’s Meals on Wheels and SMART exercise programs expected to begin on the island. The Wolfe Island Community Medical Clinic provides Wolfe Island residents with access to a family doctor, including a weekly. walk in clinic; a Nurse practitioner walk in Clinic, the Para Medic Wellness Clinic, bimonthly Blood Services , VON Foot Clinics, and a Flu Clinic (200) also for 9 seniors at home. The Clinic’s major fund raiser is the July 3rd Road Race . “Our 5k part is part of the Runners Choice series with a 3 island component Howe Island ( May 7th), ours is July 3rd and Amherst Island in August.” said Pres. Linda Thomas.
2. Donna Ivey, a former WI resident is the guest speaker for the Sir John A. Commemoration at the Cataraqui Cemetery June 6th. Donna, a member of the Kingston Historical Society, also shared a copy of her new book “From Parlour to Parliament: Sir John A's House on Rideau Street,” about the house she owns where a young Sir John A. lived . Congratulations Donna.
3. June 11-12 at least 6 Amphicars will be on the island for a Swim IN In the early 60’s 3500 German amphibious cars were built with maybe 600 remaining. “So don't panic if you see a car floating in the bay,” says David Field.

Coming Events: ** WI Boat Club Try It Day! Saturday June 18th, 11:30 - 3:00Free event to drop in and check us out. Registration open for all our programs. All Summer Book Sale on Now www.wolfeislandboatclub .** Frontenac Islands Council Meeting June 13th 6:30 Howe Island.

Posted by M Knott at 12:17 PM
May 26, 2016
How About Those Development Charges….?

Public meetings were held in both the Wolfe and Howe Island wards of Frontenac Islands providing an opportunity for residents to hear and question the 2016 Development Charges Background study . Its findings were presented by Andrew Grunda of Watson and Associates Economists Ltd. The study calculates new development charges, a tool used to recover the capital costs associated with residential and non residential growth in the municipality, based on the location of growth, servicing needs and the residential/non residential growth forecast.

The development charge for Frontenac Islands (both wards ) is $6000 for a single and semi detached dwelling, generally calculated, payable and collected when a building permit is issued. Non-Statutory Exemptions include: places of worship, hospitals; land owned/used for health care, education, cemetery; non residential farm buildings; creating or adding accessory use structure not exceeding ten square metres of non residential floor space, seniors residence, etc.
Redevelopment credits for the redevelopment of a residential/ non-residential demolition or conversion, up to 5 years prior to the issuance of a building permit, are suggested, not to exceed the amount of the development charge. Statistics Canada, Non-Residential Building Construction indexing is provided for, on an annual basis.
Mayor Doyle opened the floor to members of the public to pose questions to Mr. Grunda, who in respose said:
1, If a temporary (intergenerational) separate use residence becomes permanent, there may be an option for applicable development charges. 2. A Seniors Residence is an independent unit with a common area i.e. kitchen or laundry. 3. No development charges would be incurred if there is addition to an existing structure or adding an apartment. 4. To a request, that single family homes, 1,200 (sq. ft) and under, on non-waterfront lots, be excluded from the development charges, it was noted that using bedroom numbers is a more effective method of creating an exemption than square footage. (Another municipality included two bedroom single detached dwellings in the apartments with 2 bedrooms category.) While not offering an exemption it does gives consideration to smaller residences (young families, seniors). 5. There was a request to phase in the development charges over 3 years, $5,000 in 2016, $5,500 in 2017, $6,000 in 2018. 6. There is no direct relationship, in rural communities that development charges have had an impact on the housing market as those monies would be otherwise generated through the tax base.
Council asked that amendments to the draft by-law reflect the above suggestion. If no subsequent public meeting is required to amend the proposed by-law, council will approve the Study, and consider adoption of a new by-law at the June 13th, 2016 council meeting.

2. The Spay, Neuter, Vaccinate & Return Program Continues
Did you know that 325 feral cats on Wolfe Island have been spayed, neutered , rabies vaccinated and ear tipped over the last six months? That information came to me by way of Harry Sjonger, member of the “Wolfe Island Friends of Ferals.” The ear tipping of course is so that the neutered cats are identifiable and never trapped again according to Harry . And of course when returned to their colonies, they prevent other cats from moving in, and they will never have litters.
According to the information sheet issued by the Friends of Feral(s) (FoF) there are hundreds more on the island. “We will continue our efforts to humanely manage the population,” it states. And now, as a registered charity, the organization welcomes donations to carry out the work done by two committed veterinarians and many volunteers. Their work recommences in June following a short break. (They are also looking for donations of gently used items for an up-coming garage sale)
The FoF release includes a statement from the Neighbourhood Cats 2004 Handbook. “ Ultimately, Targeting the Cats” reproductive capacity through the spay, neuter and returning them back to their territory is the best approach available for lowering their numbers, reducing their impact on the environment and improving their lives.”
Learn more. The WI Friends of Ferals Annual AGM will be held, Tues. June 7th at 7 pm WI Town Hall Guest Speaker: Mary Shaw, MSc LVT, Animal Care Consultant. All Welcome.

Around Town: * The WI Ward Ferry Committee held its 1st meeting where Katherine Gilbert was appointed Chair and John Van Strien Vice Chair. Members also present were Mayor Doyle, Councillor Springgay, Kim Christensen, Walter Knott, Greg Caldwell and CAO Darlene Plumley. ** Clean brush is accepted in the designated area of the WI Transfer Site Saturdays ONLY - $10.00 a half ton or single axle trailer. ** Planting going on in dry (drought) conditions.

Coming Events: WI Ferry & Docking Improvements EA, 1st PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE (PIC) June 1st, 5-9 pm at Sacred Heart School. It is a “drop-in”. (Kingston PIC - June 2nd, 4:00-8:00 p.m. Holiday Inn, Kingston Waterfront).* WI Medical Clinic AGM Tues May 31st at 6:30 pm. Speakers: KFLA Nurse Joan Black - Lyme Disease - An Update. Karen Lowry VON Meals on Wheels, Cindy Weatherhead, SMART Exercise for Seniors.
** WI United Church Yard Sale, Sat. June 4th. Open 9 am.** WOLFE ISLAND BOAT CLUB OPEN HOUSE & TRY-IT-DAY!
WIBC 4th Annual Open House & Try-It Day!
Saturday June 18th, 2016 from 11:30 - 3:00
Set sail, paddle a canoe, tour the bay in a kayak or canoe!
This is a free event for the community to drop in and check us out.

Posted by M Knott at 12:12 PM
May 18, 2016
More Frontenac Islands Meeting Highlights

Dealing with the increasing number of Deer on the Islands. Lisa Solomon, Management Biologist from the MNRF, Peterborough District Office (Deer Manager) attended the May meeting of council where she provided information, using maps and statistics, concerning the deer population patterns in the region, and an overview of the current designations concerning the deer hunt on Wolfe Island. The original purpose for the gathering of all of this information was to provide a means of controlling hunter densities and controlled hunts (69A2) . The hunts, open only to Ontario residents, began in 1989 and require an application to hunt any deer. Additional tags can be provided. Farmers and land owners are guaranteed tags (over and above the determined quota). The current regular archery hunts (Wolfe-Howe Islands 69A1 and 69A3): Oct. 1-Dec. 31 and for 69A2: Oct.1-Dec.4 & Dec.12-Dec.31. In 2015 antlerless tags for all of 69A numbered 600 , with 445 1st choice applicants. Additional tags were offered for Wolfe Island only and fifty antlerless tags were all allocated. Lisa Soloman informed council that if they wished to change the type of hunt conducted, (bow hunt) they would need to submit a request asking for a change. It was noted that public consultation would be required and any change could take at least one to two years. Councillor Grant questioned the option of providing antlerless deer tags to non-residents. Ms. Solomon stated she would investigate and report back.

2. Roadside Brush and Tree Policy. Frontenac Islands adopted the brush and tree trimming and cutting policy for municipal road allowances. The policy addresses the concerns of residents regarding particularly the preservation of significant trees whenever possible, as well as providing safe roads and clear site lines for the travelling public. The policy acknowledges the value of a tree replacement-planting program by the township on municipal roads. Public Works Manager Dillabough said that efforts will be taken to maintain road tree stock, and the canopy they provide now and for future generations. Council will receive reports for their consideration prior to the removal of trees on municipal road allowances. Work on the 11th Line Road (South) has been deferred. The Township accepted the quote by Timber Tree Services for work on Wolfe Island to include cutting, trimming, chipping the brush and grinding of stumps (part A). Part B deferred to 2017 budget year with the same 2016 pricing.

3. The quotes for three projects on Howe Island were accepted. a. Roadside brushing trimming cutting Spithead Road. (Part B- 2017 budget). b. Installation of steel beam guiderail. (HI Roads Development Charges Fund, HI reserves) and c Lining cross culvert (HI reserves). FYI-The process to fill a Part-Time Emergency Call-Out Position for the Howe Island Township Ferry has begun. More Township news next time.

Around Town: You may have noticed an increased level of activity around the Wolfe Island Boat Club in advance of their numerous summer programs, fund raising book sale and 11th annual regatta and of course the Club’s Open House & Try-It Day– Sat. June 18 11am -3:00 pm providing the perfect opportunity for anyone to experience what the Club has to offer. “ And we do have an exciting season with lots of programs to offer,” according to Club treasurer Nicole Clark. “They include After-School Sailing in June, Summer Kid's Camp in July and August, and a new program for the wee one's - 'little kid's fun camp' in July & August for children ages 4 - 7 years. We are also offering seasonal coached rowing for youth & adults beginning in June and Saturday morning —Dragon Boating. Our 4th Annual Try-It Day & Open House is on June 18th from 11:00 am to 3:00pm and we are looking forward to opening our doors for the community to check us out and spend some time on the water, register for one of our programs, or renew membership. The boats will be in the water and ready to go. The Book Sale grand opening will open June 4th & 5th and will be ongoing all summer. Book donations can be dropped off on Saturday May 28th. Watch for posters,” she said. “We are grateful for the support of the Ontario Trillium Foundation, the Community Sport and Recreation Grant from the Provincial Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport, and the Canada Summer Jobs grant. We have two students this summer.” Incorporated in 2011, the WIBC promotes small boat activities, powered by oar, paddle, or sail. Other areas of interest include boating history, boat building, environmental issues concerning boating and waterways, boating safety, and the development and protection of public water access routes. The Boat Club is funded through membership fees, donations, sponsorships, and grants. Wolfe Island’s 11th Annual Barrett Bay Regatta is Sun. Aug.21, 2016. WIBC offers fun, safe, and family oriented programs geared for beginners and the more experienced as well, fun events and seasonal racing. Members enjoy the use of the sailboats, canoes and kayaks and can sign up for: Learn to Row, All Summer Rowing Adult & Youth, Learn to Sail, Dragon Boating, and more. Registration opened in May. EMAIL : info@wolfeislandboatclub.ca https://www.facebook.com/wolfeislandboatclub/ (all programs/costs are listed) . Don’t forget the WI Boat Club’s Open House & Try-It Day– Sat. June 18 11am -3:00 pm (If coming from Kingston it is a ferry trip to WI’s Marysville and walking distance to the club.) There is no need to bring a car.

Coming Events: *WI Historical Society: The Carleton Island Raid of August 1821:Smuggling in the wake of the War of 1812 with Walter Lewis Wed. May 25 7:30 pm UC Hall ** Morrison Hershfield - WI Ferry & Docking Improvements EA study’s will hold the 1st PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE to provide background on the study and present the study process, the alternatives under consideration and process that will be used to select a technically preferred alternative. The PIC is “drop-in”,no formal presentation. (Kingston PIC will be held - June 2nd, 4:00-8:00 p.m. Bellevue North Room, Holiday Inn Kingston Waterfront)

Posted by M Knott at 12:04 PM
May 12, 2016
Well Known Wolfe Islander Receives Senior of the Year Award

The first order of business at the Frontenac Islands regular meeting of council was the presentation of the Wolfe Island ‘Senior of the Year 2016 Award’ by Mayor Denis Doyle, to well known Wolfe Island community member. Nadine (Hawkins) Greenwood. Nadine, had no idea why she had been asked to attend the meeting simply assuming it had to do with any one of the island committees she is involved with or, that her family, and friends had been informed of the event until she stepped out the door of the WI Town Hall with the mayor , where the presentation took place and saw them all there.
“It is a pleasure to see so many of you here as we honour Nadine with this year’s ‘Senior of the Year Award’. Most of you know of her years on the island and her contributions to it as a volunteer,” Mayor Doyle said, noting in particular her 13 years with the island’s (volunteer) ambulance service, and her ongoing involvement with the Big Sandy Bay Committee since its inception in 2004 and her work in the city. Nadine’s surprise was evident as she graciously accepted the award. “I am so grateful to receive this award and thrilled and happy to have my family here to share this occasion with me,” she said.

Nadine is a proud parent and grandparent, and a long standing CWL member. She continues to do the bookkeeping for the island’s Sacred Heart Parish. She is also known to many more as a volunteer for Bereaved Families of Kingston, through her job at Tompkins Funeral Home, where her quiet presence gives comfort to the bereaved.

2. FRONTENAC COUNTY: Mayor Doyle welcomed the presence of Frontenac County Warden Frances Smith and CAO Kelly Pender to the meeting. “ I am happy to be here on the island” Warden Smith said. “It has been a long time, and. I am here first to bring greetings from the county, to talk about what’s going on at the county but most importantly to recognize that we are all one. If there is an issue, we need to talk about it and resolve it. The county and the townships are working more closely than they ever have. It’s the way of the future and very important to all of us,” she said.

Frontenac County CAO Kelly Pender brought council up to date on what has been going on at Frontenac County for the last six months. “Like everyone else we passed our budget . We also passed the KPMG study recommendations in December to allow each of our member municipalities to know what our position going forward and to develop a long range financial plan, reviewed by our auditor, which looked at everything from reserves to service levels.”
Pender spoke of the importance of the Eastern Ontario Warden’s Conference and one of their priorities to Frontenac County (and to Frontenac Islands). that is “Closing the cell gap, including cross border 9-1-1 cell reception issues” , ie.. calling 911 from the south side of Wolfe Island and getting a dispatcher in Cape Vincent , adding that Warden Smith had presented to the CRTC in April on behalf of the Wardens Conference.
He cited other projects including: Rural Health Care issues , School and Community relations, and the WI Paramedic Service transition which is going well. Hiring is ongoing and hopefully by the June 1st there will be a full complement to draw upon draw from for the island. Mayor Doyle reminded Mr. Pender that summer is busy …
Pender noted Fairmount Home with its exemplary accreditation, has become a challenge. with the Patient First initiative including the aging in place strategy, which means the acuity levels continue to go up, “There are more feeding tubes, more bed sores, more dementia patients and the pressure is on the municipal homes because the for profit homes do not take those cases. That’s the challenge we see over the next few years No where in the discussions with the ministry has there been mention of long term care. It seems to be the forgotten part of the puzzle,.” Pender suggested.

Pender drew attention to County Planning and Economic Development, shared services, private road studies , the communal services in rural areas study, objectives of the Economic Development Charter, (Trips/Trails; Accommodation /Food; Recreation /Lifestyle) and the $500,000 set aside for economic development over 3 years. A
Community Development Advisory committee formed to guide the Economic Development Charter and a Rural Economic Development (RED) application has been submitted to match the $5000,000. To a query about Accommodation and Lifestyle projects, Pender said “ it’s specialty shops, brew pubs, B&B’s, small motels, noting part of the tourist trade is related to the trails but there is no accommodation. So it really is about developing small businesses.” Information Services was last item of interest to all was also a shared service with the County.

3. Wolfe Island Ward Ferry Committee: Due to the interest shown by those who wished to sit on the committee, the number of community members was increased from three to five. Members are: Mayor Doyle, Councillor Springgay, Greg Caldwell, Kim Christensen, Katherine Gilbert, Walter Knott, & John Van Strien. There was more on the agenda for next time…..

Around Town: * Welcome back MTO’s summer students. * Clean brush will be accepted in the designated area of the WI Transfer Site ONLY Saturdays - $10.00 a half ton or single axle trailer. * Good road work, ball diamond going on at Community Centre.

Coming Events: .*.Fish Fry at the WI United Church Hall, Saturday May 21, 2016 Doors open at 4:30 ($15.00) *The WI Medical Clinic AGM Tues May 31st at 6:30 pm. Speakers: KFLA Nurse Joan Black - Lyme Disease - An Update. Karen Lowry VON Meals on Wheels, Cindy Weatherhead, SMART Exercise for Seniors. I nterested in serving on the board contact Linda 385 1947 or Jackie 583-4447.

Posted by M Knott at 12:00 PM
May 06, 2016
Wolfe Island battles European Water Chestnut

Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC)) and a number of Wolfe Island volunteers have been waging a battle with a European Water Chestnut invasion of Wolfe Island’s Upper West, Upper East and Lower Bayfield Bay and Button Bay water surfaces, where colonies of the species have been found. DUC has taken the lead in locating, monitoring and controlling the invasive European Water Chestnut. This species is described as “ an aggressive, annual aquatic plant, visible as thick, floating mats of vegetation that shade out native plant life, choking out the life of wetlands and shallow bays, preventing the growth of native plants beneath and limiting the different bays ability to support water fowl and wildlife, as well as affecting recreational activities.”

Recently DUC’s European Water Chestnut Coordinator, Conservation Technician Justin White conducted a workshop on Wolfe Island to update the community on efforts to control and eradicate the island outbreaks and to offer insights into how we all can help reduce this invasive species. He was accompanied by DUC’s Erling Armson.

“Justin presented a very informative and compelling presentation,” according to Frontenac Islands Administrative Assistant Theresa Quist. It was particularly compelling at this time of year as the migrating ducks and geese and fish continue their spring time arrival across the lake to the island.

The European Water Chestnut has an unusual appearance. The floating leaves are green, sharply-toothed and appear in May/June. The seeds (viable up to 10-12 years) are very sharp and nasty! (according to the presentation), free floating or washed ashore, their barbed spines can cause injury to boaters, cottagers, pets, hunters, swimmers etc. The decomposing vegetation, and lower oxygen levels reduce the water’s productivity and its value to waterfowl, fish and other wildlife which directly affects the water fowling and angling, as well as the recreational users of Wolfe Island. all of which in turn impacts the local economy.

During a question period, information from an island resident (who takes her boat out regularly) that she has seen European Water Chestnut on the west side of Brown’s Bay was much appreciated by DUC’s White and will be followed up. Jim Vanden Hoek was looking for more information about the removal and handling of the invasive plant.
As stated, DUC’s Wolfe Island efforts are focused on the two main areas of the invasion- the Monitoring and Controlling of Bayfield Bay and Button Bay so this invasive plant does not impact the waters physical, biological or economic benefits , according to DUC Coordinator White. Also noted during the evening were DUC’s further effort s to control the plant through a number of initiatives. One, considered the most effective, is to prevent seed production of the plants, and to manually remove the plants using boats/canoes on a daily basis and physically pulling them from the water along with their roots for their proper disposal. (Fragments stuck to a boat /animal if transported elsewhere, may re-root.) Other initiatives included public outreach to the Wolfe Island community by open houses, newsletters, and engaging volunteers. Very important was Increasing surveillance and monitoring of water chestnut at numerous locations on Wolfe Island and the surrounding area. and finally, curriculum based education for local school field trips on Invasive Species & the European Water Chestnut Program for island youngsters.

DUC’s efforts to monitor and control the invasive plant numbers on Wolfe Island thus far have been positive with a 30 percent reduction of the European Water Chestnut on Bayfield Bay and a 40 percent reduction on Button Bay in 2015. But regular annual funding to continue with the 2016 spring program on Wolfe Island is not guaranteed as yet, but is needed Now. DUC needs the financial support of all who share a love of the waterfowl, the wetlands and the environment, all very much at risk if the European Water Chestnut and/or other invasive species programs are discontinued. The surrounding areas are at risk if action is not continued. According to DUC, Wolfe Island is not alone with this problem. European Water Chestnut is invading many of Canada’s Lakes… Take a Look as you travel.
For more information contact : Conservation Technician Justin White 613- 389-0418 ext:131’ Email j_white@ducks.ca

Around Town: **Big Sandy Bay is now open weekends.** The Osprey venture far from their nests. Beautiful birds. ** Still quiet in the village between boats. But it won’t be for too much longer. **The King Wolf Swim (KWS) is a ~5 km swim across the St. Lawrence River from Kingston to Wolfe Island (sanctioned by Triathlon Ontario) held annually the first Saturday in July. A great swim for more experienced open water swimmers! Swim the river, enjoy lunch on the island and then take the ferry back to Kingston. **The WI Riverfront Golf Course is OPEN. ** Horne’s Ferry to Cape Vincent is Operating.

Coming Events:** . Fish Fry at the WI United Church Hall, Saturday May 21, 2016 Doors open at 4:30 ($15.00) ** Learn about the 'cochlear implant technology' May 17th, 11a.m.–5p.m. At Frontenac Mall, 1300 Bath Road Kinston, (Call Linda Thomas 385-1947). ** WI Medical Clinic AGM, Tuesday May 31- 6:30pm. If interested in serving on the board (2 year term). contact Linda Thomas at 385 1947 or Jackie Bird at 583-4447** Have You registered for the 5K -10K WI Classic the fund raising event for the Wolfe Island Medical Clinic held July 3rd at 9:30 am. ** The WI Round Up will be held July 2nd & 3rd 2016. Check WI Round Up Face book for registration.
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Posted by M Knott at 11:57 AM
April 28, 2016
Every Meeting of Council has its moments -

The April Meeting of Frontenac Islands Council had its moments some more momentous than others For instance the passage of the 2016 Budget detailed in an earlier column. But as always, other issue of interest to islanders came up as well.

1.Wolfe Island Transfer and Recycling Centre: Councillor Springgay would like a system established that would limit the number of bags deposited for transfer by individual residents. and considers the excessive number of bags she has seen deposited at times, an abuse of the system.

2. “Volunteers are the roots for strong communities” was the theme of National Volunteer Appreciation week (April 10-16). Councillor Springgay will bring forward a proposal to honour volunteers at the May meeting of council for doing so at the Community Centre grounds possibly during a summer event in July. (All members of council serve on committees of council as well as on community committees and are aware of the commitments of many island residents in a variety of other church and community associations.

3, Wolfe Island Round-Up July 2nd and 3rd : Rob and Erin White, hosts of the Round-UP requested Priority ferry boarding for Horses and Trailers (as they had last year) for the event. They will set up a schedule, booking times for trailer access Friday July 1st, allowing two trailers each trip and on Sunday July 3rd. “This schedule will reduce the congestion of trailers and wait times and allow for the free flow of traffic especially with it being a holiday long weekend,” the White’s said in their letter .

.4. Ferry line parking was a concern for Councillor Grant. He noted that people are parking in front of establishments (many not for the ferry) resulting in slowdowns in the line as vehicles have to move around them during the ferry loading process, also giving a false indication of the actual load limit. A reminder is to be sent out to residents which identifies the importance of maintaining a minimum distance between the vehicles waiting in line, providing those at the “maximum loading capacity sign” a better sense of whether they will make it onto the ferry or not. Maintaining a the minimum of distance between vehicles means that even smaller vehicles cannot slip into a space.. (Those who park in locations in proximity to their homes also skew the line up). Parking restrictions along the ferry line in Marysville have been posted on the ferry.

5. Howe Island Councillor Higgs commended Public Works Manager Rob Dillabough for the changes and advances he has instituted. Higgs said that Howe Island has already benefitted from Dillabough’s diligence in the purchase of vehicles for the Howe ward. “He did a great job with the cost coming out of reserves,” he said.

6. Deputy Mayor Nossal informed Council that a $500. grant from MTO was approved for the “Road Safety Challenge”, and will be used to promote pedestrian safety practices. Nossal noted as well that Frontenac Islands is promoting the use of Frontenac Transportation Service (FTS) which provides subsidized transportation at minimal cost to seniors by connecting them with volunteer drivers to get where they need to go. “The program depends upon the recruitment of volunteers within our community, and we would like to hear from potential volunteers and clients,”she said. On behalf of Council she also extended a sincere welcome to Larry Quinn who is now a full time Howe Island Public Works employee.
Council meets next: Monday, May 9th at 6:30 pm Wolfe Island Town Hall.
Around Town: The Wolfe Island Community Medical Clinic holds its AGM this year on Tuesday May 31st beginning at 6:30 pm. The Clinic officially opened in 1972 and rebuilt following a fire in 1972 is operated by a volunteer board of directors. It is dependant for its operation and programs offered on donations, and fund raising, the main community fund raiser being the (36th) annual Wolfe Island Classic Road Race being held July 3rd . Dr. Russell, a member of the Kingston Family Health Team sees patients Tuesdays (2:30-4:45pm) and offers a walk-in clinic until 6:15 pm. Nurse Practitioner Courtney Murdock leads a walk-in clinic Thursdays. The clinic received grants this year from the Wm. Henderson Foundation and the Britton Smith Foundation in support of the NP program. The clinic holds blood and specimen clinics (in conjunction with Life Labs), wellness and once a monthVON foot clinics, an annual Flu Shot clinic and presentations on subjects of interest. Guest speaker at the AGM will be , KFLAPublic Health Nurse Joan Black - Lyme Disease - An Update. Karen Lowry will provide information about the VON sponsored Meals on Wheels program and Cindy Weatherhead, the SMART Exercise program for Seniors. The WI Clinic Board is looking for input from the community about other possible health initiatives. If interested in serving on the board (2 year term). contact Linda Thomas at 385 1947 or Jackie Bird at 583-4447. Remember the AGM date: Tuesday May 31- 6:30pm (Meals on Wheels poster is on the ferry)

Coming events:** The WI Grill hours Thurs. 11 am 10 pm -Friday 11 am-11pm.Sat. 10am-11pm, Sun. 10am-10pm** Horne's Ferry Transportation Ferry Season Now Open. ** WI Bakery opens May1. 4.Fish Fry at the WI United Church Hall, Saturday May 21, 2016 Doors open at 4:30 ($15.00) 5. Learn about the 'cochlear implant technology' May 17th, 11a.m.–5p.m. At Frontenac Mall, 1300 Bath Road, (Call Linda, 1947)

Posted by M Knott at 11:53 AM
April 22, 2016
A Plug for Tourism on Wolfe Island

Spring is Definitely Here. There may be another frost or snow for that matter… but it is here. And last Friday marked the first time a line up of cars was left behind to wait for the next ferry to Wolfe Island since the return of the Wolfe Islander to service in Marysville. That happened without the WI Bakery, or the Island Grill, or the Cafe Tenango, or the General Wolfe as yet being open for the season. But The WIPP was busy all weekend with visitors who boarded the boat to the island, as was Fargo’s.
And as has been happening for a few weeks cyclists singly, or in clusters, and others taking advantage of the Bike Rental facility arrive on the island. Throughout the weekend , MacDonald Park at the canal was in use. ( A pity the historic canal ends right there for fishing, with little water flowing through)
The many Snowy Owls , wondrous birds ,with us all winter drawing many visitors , are gone now. Bird watchers are coming now to see the many species arriving daily including Swans, Osprey, Herons, and many, many, raptors. Wild turkeys often prance through our yard. At early morning a woodpecker pounds with the same sound, speed and intensity of a jack hammer on dried out trees. The swallows, of course, arrived when snow was still on the ground. The scarlet cardinals can be heard but not seen. Many smaller birds have been sighted. And the mating season is in high gear… It is such an incredible time of year. Why wouldn’t visitors come….
All the above reminds islanders however, that the ferry Wolfe Islander, as wonderful as she is, cannot accommodate all the visitors, tourists, cottagers and service cars /vehicles coming and going from the island without leaving some behind at times for the next ferry. at times. MTO knows it. We know it. That is why Islanders have entered into the EA process for docking improvements and a larger 75 car ferry. That is why a Wolfe Island Ferry Committee with community volunteers is being formed to act in an advisory capacity to Council about concerns relating to the Wolfe Island Ferry. The committee will gather and discuss information to assist in dealing with the province regarding improvements to the ferry system, how to deal with parking for instance, or how to encourage park and ride, and to assist in developing programs to help cope with the under capacity on the current ferry until a new ferry is a reality. The committee includes the Mayor, one councillor member, and three community volunteers, with the right to add to it from to time.

Summer Tourism (May to October) is of great importance to Wolfe Island. Businesses depend on it. Planned Island events rely on it.. Horne’s Ferry to the USA provides a very important international link. The Island has the Wind Towers, Big Sandy Bay, The River Front Golf Course , The Corn Maze, The Stone Heron Gallery, the Museum, Wolfe Island Boat Club, Joy Boat Works, Sugar Woods Farm, historic cemeteries and churches. All there to be visited. There are defined cycling routes. Gas is available.. The Community Centre grounds provides a place to go with the children. (It is also available for rent for special events.) The Horse Club offers exciting shows. And there is fresh produce growing, and local maple syrup and honey and jams for sale. Scheduled events include the WI Classic Road Race, and The Round UP weekend. T he Information Centre offers just that, and is a respite.
Why am I saying all of this? Last summer was Wolfe Island’s “the summer of our discontent”. The ferry, Wolfe Islander 111 was in dry dock for 7 months. The Frontenac 2, a much smaller ferry operated (very efficiently) from the Dawson Point terminal all summer long. But it was too small to handle the summer loads. Line ups became impossible. Business dropped off. Events were poorly attended, etc., B&B’s felt it. The situation even led to the cancellation of the 2016 (this year’s) very popular WI Music Festival.
So all of the above is a reminder of what might have brought you in the past, and what might entice you to come if you have never been before. If travelling just for the ride on the ferry to the village, you are encouraged to walk on the ferry)…… If coming by car, take a look at our rural agricultural landscape as well. If travelling to the USA come our way…..Welcome to Wolfe Island.
Around Town: Much work going on at The WI Bakery.* The WI Grill Now open ,will serve brunch on weekends and open 7 days a week from May long weekend. call 613 385 1515 **Take a look at the WI Boat Club’s list of boating opportunities, Book sale, etc. **132 feral cats s/n/v/released. Wonder how many fewer ferals will result. **The River Front Golf Course is Now Open…YEA
Coming Events: 1. The WI Grill hours Thurs. 11 am 10 pm Friday 11 am-11pm.Sat. 10am-11pm, Sun. 10am-10pm. 2. Water Chestnut workshop: Wed., April 27th Community Hall at 7 pm. 3. Horne's Ferry Transportation Ferry Season begins Friday April 29th. 4.WI Medical Clinic AGM May 31,at 6:30 pm Guest speaker Joan Black public health nurse, KFL&A. “Lyme Disease An Update!”

Posted by M Knott at 11:06 AM
April 14, 2016
Frontenac Islands Budget Passed

Frontenac Islands Mayor Denis Doyle extended a vote of thanks to the many for their efforts in completing the 2016 budget. “The last numbers were received today in time to present the budget at this meeting” Mayor Doyle said “ Now I can now say at a high level it is about 2.8% tax increase on Wolfe Island and 2.5 % on Howe. We were trying to keep it close to the inflation rate which we did. It was a particular challenge this year because OPP costs keep going up. (Over four years the OPP contract increase is from $100,000 to $400,000 requiring a 4% increase in township taxes over all until it is fully implemented.) “We are lucky we did not have to pay it all at once. It will 2018 before we feel the full impact”. Doyle said. The township council concluded its budget for 2016 and voted for the changes in spending, and increases in taxes.

The total spending for local services on Wolfe, Howe and Simcoe Islands in 2016, has risen to $4,312,691, up from the $3.8 millions last year. Overall spending includes payments $884,381 to Frontenac County (ambulance/Fairmount Home) and $1.183,489 to the school boards, bringing the total to $6,3780,561. Revenues, including provincial grants for ferries, and miscellaneous revenues, along with the use of reserves previously set aside for specific purposes, and some of the Wolfe Wind Plant current funds, totalled $2,220,921. Thus the funds to be collected from taxes amount to $4,159,640. This translates into increases of 2.75% for the Wolfe Ward, and 2.49% for the Howe Ward. These rates are based on the current property assessments. For your information, the total property assessments for each ward are: Wolfe $348 millions, & Howe $212 millions.

As the township press release indicated, the single largest item in the budget is for OPP policing, and it increased in 2015 to $232,800 this year, and will rise to $392,000 in the year 2018. The major projects/changes in 2016 are as follows: Howe Island - new tandem combo unit-$225,000; culvert etc on Howe Island Dr. - $70,000. Wolfe Island: Division street extension - $300,000; Simcoe ferry dock - $80,000. Joint- OPP police service-increase -$69,000

2. Tree Cutting and Trimming : Mayor Doyle received calls from many residents regarding red paint marked trees, and asked Public Works Manager Rob Dillabough to began his report with the planning process for the safe maintenance of island roads, since some of the residents were in attendance. “None of us want to cut down trees if we don’t have to,” the mayor said, “but we can’t wait until they rot and fall down on the roads.” Dillabough reading from the act, said in essence that: ’ a municipality that has jurisdiction over a highway/bridge shall keep it in a state of repair that is reasonable and failing to do that is subject to the Negligence Act,’ (damages due to default).
While the tree ‘Request for Quotation’ have gone out with lists of trees, brush, stumps, that does not mean the whole of program will happen. “It is in two parts, one to cover the liability of the township , the other to determine costs,” he said. “A lot of trees were left after the ice storm in 1998. Others overhang roads in need of trim. They have to be marked for the bidders to find them to get the pricing indexing, An arbourist will access the marked trees for trimming or cutting to be determined at the time.”

In response to questions by council members, Dillabough said that he would be working closely with local rate payers. I “If there is a tree on the line and its over a little bit and the trimmer is there, they can pay for it themselves and get it right. I’d like to say there won’t be an oak cut, but I can’t until an arbourist gets up there and puts a rod down to check.”
Allowing questions from the floor: WI resident Dale Sutherland expressed anxiety at finding precious trees marked and feared they would be gone the next day, “ I don’t think they all need to be cut down and I am encouraged that there is a process to follow,” he said. Another acknowledged process, but questioned the intensity of the tree marking paint, while another suggested that signs indicating overhanging trees on lesser travelled parts of the islands might be sufficient as well as a need for an expert to determine state of certain trees. “We are not going to cut anything that doesn’t need to be cut,” CAO Plumley declared. Council was enthusiastic with the request to consider a tree planting program, one cut down, two to replace, for instance. The mayor will follow up with the residents in attendance . Interesting also to note the enthusiasm for WI’s tree expert James Sansom’s work (Just Trees Inc ),

In other business: 1. The township will look into Dr. George Merry’s request for a Skeet Shoot and Sporting event at the Community Centre (May 28th) In principle there is no problem but more information will be required to ensure safety of residents. 2. Metal Craft to be advised some parked vehicles are considered dangerous to traffic. Concern has begun about cars left parked in the ferry line up, no drivers A Notice re: parking is posted on Township website. More Next week.

Coming Events:* Join us for a free workshop about Water Chestnut on Wolfe Island: Wed., April 27th Wolfe Island Community Hall (behind the Town Hall) at 7 pm. ** WI Community Centre spring/summer programming coming soon.** Horne's Ferry Transportation Ferry Season begins Friday April 29th.

Posted by M Knott at 10:51 AM
April 01, 2016
An Interesting Meeting… Open… Transparent

A special council meeting on Wolfe Island brought together Frontenac Islands Mayor Denis Doyle , (WI ward) Councillor’s Barbara Springgay and Wayne Grant, and the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) Team for the Wolfe Island Ferry and Docking Improvements study presently underway. MTO members of the ‘Preliminary Design and Class EA Team’ included Tina White, Senior Project Manager, Amanda Grypma, Environmental Planner, and Sharon Westendorp, Senior Environmental Planner. Members of the community were also present.
The meeting was held to provide council with an update on the Preliminary Design and Class Environmental Assessment associated with the ‘Preferred Option of the 2011 Planning Study’ which set out a dual-vessel ferry service operating from Dawson Point (75 car ferry ) and Marysville (WI3) during the summer. It called for improved docking/marshalling at the terminals, and integration with Kingston transit and related issues..
To a resident’s question, Is this about a vessel, or docking or both? “They go hand in hand,” Project Manager Tina White responded. “ But the vessel is not in this study. You have to get environmental approval to improve or expand a service, but the building of a vessel is done differently than building the docks. We have a naval architect who fits into our study.”
MTO’s Amanda Grypma, brought all up to date on the EA process, the consultations that have already occurred, how the public can be involved , the status of the study, and what’s next. Work is ongoing to complete a transportation environmental study report for docking improvements, improving efficiencies, and safety for vehicles and pedestrians & cyclists etc., and how a larger ferry will fit into the picture, before moving on to the Detail and Design stage. “Its important to note that we are applying environmental processes at every stage of the EA process,.” she said.

Data collection and field work to generate and evaluate alternative marshalling, docking and pedestrian facilities are on going and, with a broad consultative process, a technically preferred option for Barrack Street, Dawson Point and Marysville docks/facilities to accommodate a new larger ferry will be arrived at.
Consultation is also underway with municipal governments, , First Nations, agencies, the public, and interest groups. A first Public Information Meeting (PIC) with full rage of design alternatives will be held in late May-early June, a date chosen to also accommodate summer residents. Its purpose is to receive feedback on the alternatives with a second PIC meeting in Winter 2017 to present the Technically Preferred Alternative. A Community Advisory Group (CAG) has had its 1st of 4 meetings. (The 4th will be input on final design features before final (TESR)Transportation Environmental Study Report.)

There will be further occasions for consultation (meetings, field visits, one on one meetings) as required or requested to address specific needs or issues (i.e. property). Residents were encouraged to use of the www.wolfeislandferryea.ca website to remain current with the process and to submit comments.
A lively period followed as the MTO team responded to questions from members of council and the public with answers as follow:
“# Operational issues such as the ramp effectiveness are not part of project. # We are looking at the impact of the roads to both terminals and additional survey requirements to assist with design alternatives . # Believe road was surveyed from Dawson to the Marysville terminal, so technically it is part of the project scope, with information available to the township. #The plan is to expand and implement a two ferry system. # In either location for the purpose of expanding marshalling areas you can build on the land, or into water depending on the environmental assessment. So based on technically preferred alternative we would look to purchase land from Ministry or land owner(-expropriation). # All public comments are welcomed. # Although not part of this process, different ideas for boarding and offloading of ferry and boarding will be considered. # When it comes to the “boat”, the design is harder but we will bring all ideas forward during the study at any time. It is a matter of cooperation, back and forth. A naval architect, ALION Science has been chosen for the project.”
In the final moments of the meeting Mayor Doyle commented that Wolfe Island has been need of increased ferry capacity for quite a number of years already and whatever can be done do to speed the process would be appreciated. “It would be great to have the budget approved before the next election. I won’t be happy until I see it approved. ( The project is listed in the MTO Southern Highway program list with no $ figure)
Residents are encouraged to use of the www.wolfeislandferryea.ca website to remain current with the process and to submit comments. MTO is also on Face Book.. Twitter. This is an open and transparent project. All meetings will be announced .
Around Town: *Planning is ongoing for a new Township of Frontenac Islands website to be unveiled soon. ** As of April 7th the Nurse Practitioner WALK IN Clinic at the WI Community Medical Clinic will be held from 10:00 am – 12:30 pm. (Cost for the NP is undertaken by the Medical Clinic ) . **The village is coming to life now that winter is gone. ** Folks are happy to have the “boat” back in the village. * Time to register for the WI Road Race… * The ferry line-up already can be a problem for those coming from the east. Will welcome Summer Students to keep it straight… **Accessibility Awareness week in the Township of Frontenac Islands- April 3rd to April 9th 2. The Township also proclaimed Pitch In Week – April 17th-23rd .

Posted by M Knott at 10:43 AM
March 23, 2016
More Frontenac Islands Council News ….

Frontenac Islands held another marathon day of 3 public meetings (as they had in February): a final budget meeting, a special meeting with County Planner Joe Gallivan regarding unopened road allowances, and the regular March meeting of council. The Council, with members of staff, also had a formal picture taken to add to those of past councils held at the Howe Island and Wolfe Island Town Halls.
With reference to last week’s column and the transition of the Wolfe Island Paramedic Service from a volunteer operation to a regular unionized service by 2018, there was a certain amount of obvious concern from the public, for whom the service provides an important measure of confidence for living on an island, until the transitional process was fully explained . Presently, the island firefighters attend every call in their Emergency Service vehicle, assist the Frontenac Paramedic (s) as required, and are First Responders when necessary. Provincial regulation allow only Paramedics (or police) to drive an ambulance.
Repeating from the (March 23rd ) column, Director of Frontenac Paramedic Services (FPS) Paul Charbonneau stated that statistics indicate only 2% of all calls require immediate hospital admission. The philosophy now is that the ambulance brings the hospital to the victim, and the new (8 hr. shift and 16 on call) staffing reduces chute (response) times. He said islanders should continue to feel reassured in a medical crisis, that they will continue to be well served by the Wolfe Island Paramedic station on an ever increasing number of days. The $145,000 cost of the model chosen by County Council resulted in the request for ‘a phase in’ to a fully staffed unit. Until fully implemented, Paramedics will continue to come from Kingston and there is an ongoing process of hiring new staff by FPS.

2. STREET NAMING POLICY: Frontenac Islands now has a road & street naming policy, its function is to enable people, and emergency services, to locate properties readily. An “approved street/road name list“ will be compiled , maintained and processed by the Public Works Department conforming to the Township’s names policies. Names may include among others, those who served their country (Military/Public Service), have historical significance, reflect the agricultural, recreational, and heritage etc.

3. The Frontenac County Rural Transportation project was discussed at the February council meeting where Deputy Mayor Nossal felt it appropriate to determine if there is a need for an extension of the service to Frontenac Islands that provides rides to appointments, for those unable to get there themselves. Based on county information there are ways of expanding the service to include islanders , but much is dependant on finding volunteer drivers. A flyer to determine interest in Frontenac County Rural Transportation initiative will be circulated, specifically with a ‘Call Out’ for Volunteer drivers.
4. OPP Costs & Wind Towers: There has been a significant increase in OPP costs overall, with part related to the inclusion wind towers . Mayor Doyle recently met the Kingston C.A.O., their Police Chief, and Deputy Police Chief concerning possible policing options. “We will meet again in the fall to discuss possibilities , however there is little hope for any cost saving,” he said. He also raised the OPP billing formula for wind tower property codes at the ROMA/Good Roads Conference where there was a commitment to review the formula. FYI: Under the new OPP billing model, Ontario municipalities are being charged a base service cost including wind turbine property, and a service charge if OPP have to attend to any property in some way.

5. Frontenac Islands Wolfe Island Ward is setting up a Wolfe Island Ferry Committee, as a committee of council, made up of the Mayor, 1 councillor and 3 community members, and more as required. Its purpose is to assist in dealing with the province regarding improvements to the Wolfe Island ferry system to/from Kingston. A letter of intent to CAO, to serve as a community member, is required by April 21st. Appointments will be made in May. Also pertaining to ferry transportation , MTO will be contacted about the timing of the Barrack Street light, and asked whether the City of Kingston could adjust the traffic flow for vehicles coming off the ferry.

6. Budget deliberations have concluded. Township will prepare for its adoption at the April Council Meeting. Increases proposed are for: Howe Island – 2.53% and Wolfe Island – 2.79%. Details next time.

7. Since their regular meeting, Council held a special meeting to hear a progress report regarding the Wolfe Island ferry and docking improvement EA, with a presentation by members of the MTO team.
8. And finally..1. Accessibility Awareness week in the Township of Frontenac Islands- April 3rd to April 9th How Accessible is Our Community…..? 2. The Township also proclaimed Pitch In Week – April 17th-23rd
Around Town: **Three Cheers for the Wonderful St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon. Thanks to ALL those who prepared the meal, who provided music and entertainment and to the event’s Host Everett Hogan, who has a way of making every one wish they were Irish. Great fun was had by all. **Sadly the WI Music Festival has been cancelled for this year. Attendance was way down, **The ferry is operating from Marysville. **Beginning April 7th, Thursday WI Walk In Clinics are from 10:30am -12:30 pm **WI Road Race at wolfeisland.com

Posted by M Knott at 10:36 AM
March 15, 2016
How Accessible Is Accessible? on Frontenac Islands

Spring is definitely in the air, the ice is gone from most sidewalks and I can finally lift my head up and look about rather than down in an effort to avoid falling. As Frontenac Islands appointed representative, to the Frontenac County Accessibility Committee, it certainly is high time for me to get out and about and have a look at how good a job the islands do with the whole “accessibility for persons with disabilities concept” . And, can I do it on my own? That’s the key for me. What will I confront to make that impossible now that spring is here…..
You would not believe how much I have learned in just a short while about accessible doors, desks, step height, railings, ramps, mail boxes, widths and heights, washroom sizes and amenities. Personally I regularly confront difficult sidewalks, steps, inaccessible buildings, impossible washrooms, lack of railings, and few chairs to stop and rest, along with a lack of closed circuit and audio visual systems at some meetings.
The need for rest areas (inside buildings, and outside) that include chairs, benches, protection from the elements, washrooms and handicap parking is essential and, last but not least, recognition of importance of service animals to their owners.. And then there is the ferry…. . where accessibility is under intense scrutiny as the EA process for a larger ferry continues … . Personally my issues include balance and breathing as compared to the more difficult issues that confront many others with disabilities, when it comes to accessibility.
Wolfe Island has a long and exciting history. The buildings in the village of Marysville for the most part have been there for many years and are representative of that history. And, where possible, some business owners and operators and organizations have added feature such as ramps, railings, doors and washroom features to their facilities to make them somewhat accessible.
The Township recognizes the importance of accessibility for Economic Development and more recent municipal properties have included accessible features. They include the Information Centre, the Library, the emergency services and paramedic apartment in Marysville, Howe Island’s Emergency Services Building, and other facilities. The WI Medical Clinic was built to standards and with a ramp, and accessible washroom.
Churches and hall owners have made some changes.. Village businesses have made efforts. However major changes are costly and complicated. Within the community some home owners have taken advantage of grants available for home accessibility renovations.
During the long 7-month period with a small ferry resulting in long waits, with fewer visitors and tourists causing a major decline in economic development and in tourism, so important to Wolfe Island, and Cape Vincent NY (WI’s Horne’s Point ferry), and to Kingston for that matter, and is it any wonder…? There was lots of time to think about accessibility and what it was like not to have it… Now as Frontenac Islands Council considers municipal roads, sidewalks , cycling areas, beaches, trails, ramps, railings, door ways, public halls, services, transportation, distances to facilities during annual budget deliberations, are all being looked at with a new awareness? And is it a perfect opportunity?
June 2015 marked the 10th Anniversary of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) which set out a goal of making Ontario accessible by 2025 . At the recent meeting of the Frontenac County Accessibility Advisory Committee, members agreed that every one in Frontenac County needed to be made aware of the accessibility needs of the disabled, and they will develop and promote an Accessibility Awareness Campaign that acknowledges the wonderful things already accomplished and at the same time call for further initiatives to be taken to make Frontenac County “All Inclusive.” The committee will be asking each of the four Frontenac County Townships to declare April 3-9, 2016 as “Accessibility Awareness Week.” For accessibility information contact: Janette Amini 613-548-9400. The mandate of the Committee is “To assist the County and Township Councils in the County of Frontenac in enabling persons with disabilities to have equal access to all opportunities within the County.”
Around Town: **Every attempt will be made to keep the WI rink open until the end of the March School Break, weather permitting.. ***Eight more feral cats have be spayed, neutered and vaccinated for Rabies bringing the total number of WI Friends of the Feral cats to 116. *** Take Note: Pitch IN Canada Week is April 17-23, 2016 *** Frontenac Islands half load restrictions begin on or about the March 15th. Township reserves right to change the date with extreme rain or rise in temperatures.
Coming Events. *** Dr. Russell's After Hours Walk-In Clinics Tuesday March 22nd cancelled. Nurse Practitioner Walk-In Clinic Thursdays 9:00-11:30 am..bring OHIP card. *** CALL OF THE HEART ..Wolfe Island Yoga & Bhakti Celebration, May 20th - 22nd: info@shantiretreat.ca www.shantiretreat.ca

Posted by M Knott at 03:14 PM
March 09, 2016
EA for Larger Wolfe Island Ferry Proceeds as Scheduled

EA for Larger Wolfe Island Ferry Proceeds as Scheduled
Wolfe Islanders know that once spring arrives it will become more and more difficult “Time Wise” to access the ferry Wolfe Islander III in a vehicle. The MTO owned, and operated ferry, makes its way from Wolfe Island to Kingston each day on an fixed hourly schedule. It has operated from the island’s Dawson Point most winters and from the village of Marysville ( spring to late fall) from what used to be identified as “from ice out to ice in,” or often all year if there is sufficient water in Barrett Bay.
As everyone knows there is a problem. Ever increasing traffic, to and from the island, has caused a steady increase in wait times to get from the island to the mainland and vice versa particularly during peak shoulder period 5:45 am to 9 am and 3 pm to 6 pm daily for residents, throughout all weekends, holidays, major events, most of the time during the summer and for travel to/from the USA for everyone really. Its all about ‘Tourism’ important for Wolfe Island, Cape Vincent and Kingston…..and daily living on the island whether resident or cottage owner.

MTO is well aware of the existing problems and has moved forward with a Preliminary Design & Class Environmental Assessment Study for increasing Wolfe Island ferry capacity, with a second 75 vehicle capacity ferry between Dawson Point and Barrack Street, with the Wolfe Islander III operating from Marysville to Barrack Street summer only, and improved marshalling, dock & mooring improvements , and demand management, ( all as recommended in a 2011 Planning Study). Retained by MTO to conduct the Class EA, Morrison Hershfield Ltd. invited interested citizens to apply to serve on non-voting Community Advisory Group(CAG). They held a first meeting with the CAG members Feb. 25th.
Project Team members included: MTO’s Tina White, and Environmental Planners Sharon Wesgtendorp, and Amanda Grypma, and other MTO staff; Morrison Hershfield Project Manager Edward Li and Environmental Planners Mike Bricks and Kevin Coulter. Mr. LI presented an overview of the EA. Glen Pothier was the Workshop Facilitator
and it was lively. There was much input and participation. When asked for ideas about docking facilities, marshalling, pedestrian, cyclist safety, park and ride, roads, lighting, amenities, etc., suggestions came quickly and easily. And of course, there were questions about a bridge, alternative routes etc., and even scepticism that anything like a larger boat would ever happen, and concerns about the long time line. (It was hard to forget last summer!)

The selected members at each table were invited to work on booklet questions regarding the terminals and docks: vehicle marshalling, handling pedestrians & cyclists, and service facilities at Marysville, Dawson Point and Barrack Street, and come up with ideas and solutions. (Some ideas also came from observers in attendance.) Solutions were many and varied, including the need for services at Dawson Point, e.g. coffee, water, perhaps kiosks, benches, etc. along with safer pedestrian and cyclist lanes for loading, an improved road to Marysville and to the Dawson docks, more LED lighting, more parking, a village stop light to regulate traffic, signage along lineups, etc. And wind or a solar diesel on the new ferry . What was important here was that all ideas and solutions from the CAG will be captured from the process and considered in the final report.

The 4 CAG meetings and Public Information Centres are an important, and required part, of the EA process but should not be confused with any ability to significantly modify the preferred alternative accepted by the government. Only a strong negative reaction to the plan combined with a major economic downturn could affect the ability of the government to proceed onto the design/ build stage. As I see it, the goal to achieve that 75 car larger ferry would be to urge the process not just forward, but “ Move It Forward Faster” … As was stated at the meeting, “we are building on the recommendations of the 2011 study not revisiting them.”

Around Town; * In stating the rink will close March 31st ,— depending on the weather should have been added. ** Visit the Frontenac Islands website (municipality.frontenacislands.on.ca/) for a listing of Summer Job possibilities: **. WI Tourism and Program Development Co-ordinator 2. Environmental Stewards (Big Sandy Bay) **The next specimen collection at WI Medical Clinic, Friday March 18th. ** It won’t be long now until Frontenac Islands Township has a new and exciting website. Watch for an announcement. ** Half load restrictions are expected to start on all island roads on or about March 15th. Enforcement once signs are up. Rain or high temperatures can change dates. .**Congratulations to the Frontenac Refugee Committee and the success of the Shout Sisters Concert and fund raiser to help settle a Syrian Refugee Family in Kingston. (Fund raising continues). **Visit Shanti Retreat for Spring programs coming up soon.

Coming Events : **. Kids Karate Registration March 9th at Lesley Mosier’s home. ** Seniors St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon at Wolfe Island’s Sacred Heart School at 12 noon.. *Check out WI Medical Clinic for Walk In Clinic’s and more.

Posted by M Knott at 03:05 PM
February 27, 2016
February 22nd Bitter Sweet Day for Wolfe Island

Feb. 22nd marked a historic day for Wolfe and Simcoe Islands that after 42 years the Wolfe Island Volunteer Ambulance Service changed from a volunteer operation to a unionized one. The Wolfe Island (Paramedic) Station was the last in Ontario once staffed completely by volunteers 24 hours a day. This was a model for small communities that didn't have government funded ambulance services.
“I am sure that the men and women who have served as volunteers on Wolfe Island for over 40 years are viewing this change with mixed emotion,” said Paul J. Charbonneau, Director of Emergency and Transportation Services and Chief of Paramedic Services for the County of Frontenac. “This marks the end of an era,” he said. “Change is sometimes difficult, however, this is an improvement to the service. “Paramedics bring the hospital to the patients and this change (to a unionized service) means we will bring it sooner,”

Wolfe Island’s volunteer ambulance service, was the last of its kind in Ontario. It began in 1974.through the initiative of Wolfe Island resident Dr. George Merry to provide the safe transfer of patients & accident victims to Kingston’s Hotel Dieu Hospital and from the desperation of residents that came from long waits for a ferry coming from Kingston with an ambulance, that led them to try and improve the situation. It was Dr. Merry who encouraged community fundraising for the purchase of their own island ambulance, (a 1972 Chevy Suburban), previously used in Parham. And it was he who called out for interested volunteers to operate it and as well as take the training required to do so.

Hotel Dieu’s surgeon in chief at the time, Dr. Wm. Ghent, responsible for emergency health services and ambulance attendant training, and Kingston regional ambulance supervisor, A. Astle, assisted in the acquisition of the ambulance. They alerted Emergency Health Services to Wolfe Island’s problem that it could take from two, to as many as five hours to bring an accident victim or patient from the island. Prior to that time Wolfe Islanders would transport their sick or/and injured to the ferry however they were able, and as Dr. Merry is quoted as saying “I was doing emergency transportation off the back of a pickup truck.”

Dr. Merry had previously opened the Island’s first medical Clinic in a mobile trailer at his home property, bought through fundraising etc, and subsequently it was moved, later burned down and replaced with a new permanent building, identified as the Wolfe Island Community Medical Clinic that operates through bequests, donations and with some support from the township and operated by a volunteer board of directors.

The Ministry of Health went on to provide a fully equipped ambulance and offered training for island volunteers. In 1974 volunteer paramedics were paid $2 an hour while on call. The ambulance was originally housed in its own garage beside the WI Town Hall. Over the years the service acquired the ‘Jaws of Life’, developed and instituted a ‘Fast Find House’ numbering system, and volunteers were on call 24 hours a day. The 911 dispatch began October 1990, and an ambulance/fire hall was built. WI resident Paramedic Sally Kane volunteered for the ambulance service beginning in 1991 and has been part of the many changes that have taken place since that time. Bringing forward Sally’s name can’t help but bring to mind the names of so many men and woman who also served.. To all of them, our grateful thanks for their dedicated service.

Training became more rigorous and ongoing for the volunteers. The volunteers in turn offered first aid courses and CPR programs, were on site for events and provided disaster response (Ice storm 1998). In 2004 the Parham, Hotel Dieu and Wolfe Island Ambulances Services merged and became Frontenac Paramedic Services, under operation of the County of Frontenac. As paramedic training requirements were upgraded recruiting volunteers became harder to accomplish, leading to model change from volunteer to unionized paramedics. The importance of the ambulance service to Islanders cannot be underestimated, ranking 2nd only to the importance of safe, timely and efficient ferry service. The WI Station new deployment model will be 8 hours on site and 16 hours on call. A building (June 2012) beside the Fire Hall offers paramedic accommodation. At this time Wolfe Island Fire & Rescue (WIFR) is responding to all calls to assist the paramedics. This will be re-evaluated in 6 months.

Around Town:… Mayor Doyle says the meeting with Minister Del Duca concerning a back up ferry to serve the needs of Wolfe, Amherst and Glenora went well and the need for the design & build project is clearly understood. MPP Kiwala announced that the Province will invest in the purchase of a new ferry for Amherst Island as early as 2018 ensuring a back-up vessel for the Eastern Region (as promised by the Minister Del Duca). ….Mayor Doyle and Deputy Mayor Natalie Nossal attended a meeting with the VON to discuss an” On Call” transportation model that would provide rides to appointments for islanders unable to drive. “It was a very preliminary meeting,” Doyle said adding that such a plan would require many committed volunteers. (VON has a Shuttle Service, a Call Dispatch and many volunteers in Kingston.)
Coming Events: **Annual St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon, Sacred Heart School, March 12th at 12 noon. ** Frontenac Islands Council Meetings March 14th Budget Meeting at 2:00 pm. 2nd Meeting with Joe Gallivan: Unopened Roads at 6pm & Regular Council Meeting 6:30 pm. All at Wolfe Island Municipal Building.

Posted by M Knott at 12:15 PM
February 21, 2016
It was “Three for One” this month

The Frontenac Islands Council meeting held this month on Howe Island consisted of three meetings. First was a budget meeting, followed by a special public meeting with regard to unopened road allowances, and the third, council’s regular monthly meeting.
1 .The 2016 budget meeting: The budget meeting dealt with the Howe and Wolfe Island Fire Department’s numbers with Chief Mike Quinn presenting Howe’s budget overview. One item of interest indicates a $25,000 transfer to reserves for capital equipment replacement . (By setting aside funds in advance, if a used vehicle comes up, it takes only a council motion to release the money.) — A WI Fire Budget change will see $30,000 placed in the WI Fire Capital Equipment Reserve rather than a transfer of $50,00 from the amenities fund. — Council reviewed budgets numbers from Howe Island recycling, (a request for extended hours is to be considered); culture & recreation and the Garden Buds.
—Following a review of an engineer’s report, the HI Township ferry budget will include the cost, yet to be determined, of replacing the ferry’s deck. — Council also reviewed the WI Roads budget including items identified in January, for instance, the Division Street extension; refurbishment of Simcoe Island ferry docks. —Councillors Grant, and Springgay and PWM Dillabough will review the WI Community Centre Board budget prior to the he next budget meeting on March 14th, 2:00 pm at the WI Town Hall. (The budget meeting will include a Budget Recap , Recreation, Amenities Requests, Department summaries and percentage breakdown’s.) Public Works Manager (PWM) Dillabough attended the budget meeting. Also- The Simcoe Island ferry fares bylaw is to be revised, at the March council meeting.

2. “Its all about access….” Unopened Road Allowances: Joe Galivan Frontenac, County Director of Planning and Economic Development, provided council with policy direction for dealing with, and the fair treatment of requests for the purchase or lease of unopened road allowances, and to hear comments on the draft bylaws and policies. He defined an unopened road allowance as a strip of land owned by a municipality where a road may be built in the future, but does not currently exist, a definition included in the Ontario Road Access Act. These are common in rural municipalities,” he said, “due to lack of density & demand.” By-laws and consistent policies for the leasing, closure, selling etc., or giving away of unopened road allowance would provide the township with the tools and documentation to guard against potential liability. Frontenac Islands Official Plan policy is to retain unopened allowances leading to water in public ownership where there is no public point alternative.
Council members and residents gathered round a map outlining unopened allowances, disputing some and adding others. There were many questions and comments with surprise at how many there are, and the fact that there are a couple totally inaccessible. Further input is expected at a 2nd meeting March 14th on Wolfe Island. It seems that to have by-laws and consistent Closure & Conveyance* and *Use of Unopened Road Allowance policies would provide the township with the tools and documentation to guard against potential liability. Councillor Higgs: “we have a trail across the island on an unopened road allowance… Are we liable ?”, he asked. Answer: “yes.” For the present Galivan’s presentation was accepted as information. Township staff will review map discrepancies. Planner Galivan will add information from both public meetings and provide the township with a completed document. Interesting and informative stuff.
3 .Last, but not least, the regular meeting of Council began at 6:30 pm with a busy agenda .
—A Retention Bylaw, to provide a schedule for how long Township records must be kept and maintained (Retention Periods) by the Township was introduced. Following review, comment and confirmation from the Township’s Solicitor, it will be brought back to Council for Third and Final Reading. —The township with a municipal drain will appoint a Drainage Superintendent to check it, a requirement of the Drainage Act. Land owners on each side are responsible for maintenance. — The Township petitions annually for subsidy on the operating costs of the Howe Island Township ferry ($337,567.22) and the Simcoe Island ferry ($238,174.65.) of the previous year. — Council supports the WI Community Garden Initiative to apply to the Community Foundation for a ‘Regina Rosen Food First Fund Grant’ for a School Garden Project. — A report with recommendations from the WI Waste Site Transition Committee was deferred until the March 14th council meeting on Wolfe Island, also a Simcoe/Wolfe Island Ferry Committee report. —Much satisfaction with the card lock outlet on Wolfe Island. All monies received as a percentage of sales & property lease are placed into an asset replacement reserve. — MPP Kiwala will present concerns at meeting with Minister Naquvi (Correctional Services) concerning OPP billing. These were raised by Mayor Doyle and Deputy Mayor Nossal with her. — As of Feb. 22nd, according to Mayor Doyle, there will be two paramedics on Wolfe Island for an 8-hour shift. (time to be determined). Frontenac County C.A.O. Kelly Pender and Chief of Paramedic Services Paul Charbonneau will be attending the March 14th Council meeting. — Councillor Springgay announced the WI Rink will close March 31st.
Around Town: Although it was a heavy snowstorm and hard work to deal with it was wonderful to see the islands looking so beautiful…. and to welcome back to our feeders the many birds who previous had little need for us. *Take note: No Specimen Collection on Friday March 4th at the WI Medical Clinic..
Coming Events: * Council meets March 14th on Wolfe Island 6:30 pm * Special meeting re: Unopened Road Allowances at 6 pm. (WI Town Hall).

Posted by M Knott at 10:01 AM
February 12, 2016
The Wolfe Islander III Celebrated

It is a pleasure to write about the recent event held to celebrate the ferry , Wolfe Islander III ‘s 40th Anniversary of service to Wolfe Island. The event initiated by the ‘Friends of the Wolfe Island Ferry Service’ (‘Friends’), assisted by on-shore staff including Capt. Bob Woodman and supported by Regional MTO staff bringing together past and present ferry personnel, captains, mates, engineers, & staff from MTO’s Regional Offices, Regional Director Kathy Moore. Also MPP for Kingston and the Islands, Sophie Kiwala, Frontenac Islands Mayor Denis Doyle, interested public from Wolfe Island/ Kingston and islander, Tom Wroe who spoke on behalf of Friends.
Following the arrival of the Wolfe Islander III, horn sounding, special flags flying, greeted by MPP Kiwala, Mayor Doyle, and MTO’s Kathy Moore, the formal event began in the Kingston ferry terminal. “We have a group called Friends of the Wolfe Island Ferry service started last year and we want to encourage events like this. We want to advocate for the ridership of the ferry. So anything we can do to help make the service better that’s what we aim to do,” Tom said at the outset.”

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Tom Wroe, MPP Sophie Kiwala, Mayor Denis Doyle

Mayor Doyle followed with congratulations for the Wolfe Islander III long years of successful service. “ Largely due to some of the people here,” he said. “I saw Sherman Niles and Ken White who actually were on the ship when it sailed down from Thunder Bay into this harbour Dec. 16th, . I spoke with my friend Winfield Woodman who said it took hours iof shore work (and short trial runs) to get things working right for the Feb. 5. 1976 inauguration attended by then Mayor Tim O’Shea, Syl Apps, & Minister James Snow.’ Doyle thanked all those past and present who maintain the ferry and captains and crew for the service they provide. .and MTO staff at Counter Street.
MPP Kiwala expressed her delight at being there. She said that when elected in 2014 she was expected to be an expert about everything. “The WI ferry situation last summer was a trial by fire. But I have to say that during that time I began to realize how important that ferry is to islanders. Without it, lives are enormously impacted,” she said adding that sitting near Minister Del Duca in the legislature she was able to bug him about last summer’s ferry delay . “ I do want to tell you that the Minister and I had hoped to come back from Hamilton on the ferry, but it was to be an 18 hour trip. However on that night I woke up at 4 am, messaged the ferry, heard back , viewed pictures, watched the sunrise. It crystallized for me in that moment how much the ferry means to the community.” Kiwala, expressed thanks to the (ferry) staff at Counter Street and particularly to Kathy Moore for all she has learned from her about ferry services, in particular, and also the scope of regional transportation requirements (highways,bridges etc.) in eastern region.
MTO’s Kathy Moore thanked Mayor Doyle and Friends for taking the initiative to remember the 40th Anniversary of the Wolfe Islander 111.”It has been a great opportunity for MTO to be associated with the WI Ferry service since the 1960’s,” she said noting the social and economic changes that were brought about in the lives of islanders 40 years ago with year round service. “These changes were brought about in large part by the former employees captains, crew, shore staff, those who brought the boat down, and those who serve today. This ferry has moved millions of passengers in all kinds of weather and still they remain passionate, concerned and dedicated to their work. Thank you to the generation who has gone before, some of whom are with us today and to those who presently work with the ferry service today. You have made a difference in the lives of the people and the economy of this township”. Director Moore commented also on the commemorative flags on the boat and the flags, and table of mementos , pictures, albums set up by Shore Captain Bob Woodman.

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MTO Eastern Regional Director Kathy Moore with them..

Captain Brian Johnson spoke nostalgically about his time on the Wolfe Islander III. “ I was driving in this morning and saw the Islander coming in just as beautiful as ever and I finally accepted her. For years she was a certain size , a certain shape in 1975,” he said. “There are two important dates in my 33.8 years. The first was walking down to the boat Sept. 11, 1981 and the 2nd was June 23rd, 2015 walking off the boat. I never had one bad day on the Wolfe Islander. I had bad weather, hard trips . We all have. But I loved the guys I worked with, loved the people I worked for and loved the people we serve .”
A visual presentation prepared by ‘’Friends’ was ongoing through out the event . The beautiful cake was cut and served, and picture taking, conversation, memory sharing and laughter continued well into the afternoon.
Around Town:*Another Great WinterFest. One again wonderful participation by the Kingston Frontenacs. Delicious Chili and , Wolfe Tails. Good skating. It is amazing how it all comes together. Chili Winners 2016 :- Joy Boatworks &Pest Control.
Coming Events: *‘Shout Sisters (Wolfe Island –Frontenac Refugee Support Committee) Concert Fund Raiser Sun. Feb. 21st First Baptist Church, Kingston 2:30 pm Silent Auction begins at 2pm. Come, support and enjoy.

Posted by M Knott at 09:56 AM
January 29, 2016
The Big 40 for the Wolfe Islander III

The Big 40 for the Wolfe Islander III The Wolfe Islander III has served Wolfe Island for 40 years. The original Feb. 5, 1976 date of the ship’s arrival in Kingston will be marked by an event at the Barrack Street dock and terminal building in Kingston on that date Friday Feb. 5 th, at 1:30 pm. Do come down to CHEER her in… Special flags flying and horn blowing perhaps, to announce her presence, just as on her original arrival in Kingston and more recently on her return from Hamilton not that many weeks ago.… The point is that the ferry is back, in service and there is a 40th Anniversary to commemorate and celebrate. In the spirit of the occasion Mayor Doyle had this to say, “There will be a celebration with cake , coffee, tea etc. at the ferry building at the Kingston side dock on February 5 at 1:30 pm. I hope to see many of you out for this important occasion.”
2.Policing Costs and Towers. There have been recent news articles regarding the fact that towers, such as cell and wind, are charged the same policing rate per structure as residential dwellings. According to Mayor Doyle Frontenac Islands with its 86 towers understands and accepts the need to have a fair allocation for OPP policing costs across all municipalities. “But we feel that structures without people should not be charged this fee, a fee that resulted from MPAC information showing wind towers as billable properties just like any other building. We are analysing this issue thoroughly and will meet with our provincial representative shortly to ask that these structures, that do not require policing, be removed from the billing formula,” he said. “Given we cannot charge commercial taxes based on the true value of our towers, the amount we receive annually through taxes will barely cover the cost when the new policing billing system is fully implemented in 2019.”

3 Patients First Discussion Paper: Mayor Denis Doyle, a member of the KFL&A Health Unit Board (made up primarily of local politicians) is enthused with a discussion paper titled “Patients First” proposing changes to the current delivery of services. That is, that the work done by Community Access Care Centres (CACC’s), which is not part of the Health Unit, will be carried out directly by the LHIN’s (Local Integrated Health Networks).

With significant funding for the Public Health Units coming through taxes from local municipalities, the Health Units will continue to operate independently. They will negotiate Accountability Agreements and receive their funding through the South East LHIN, according to Doyle. “I was concerned, but having read the proposed document in detail I feel it will help streamline health delivery. As well as health inspections and approvals, the major work performed by the Health Unit is heath problem prevention including promoting healthier life styles, such as no smoking, flu shots, and so on. As the chair of our board, Charles Symonds, always says “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”.
“Promoting the healthy life style by integrating our efforts with all other health professionals through the LIHN's will receive a higher level of focus which can only help to get the message out.” Mayor Doyle looks forward to working more closely with the South East LHIN. And there are still questions to be answered.

4. The Frontenac Wolfe Island Refugee Support group continues to prepare for the arrival in Kingston of their 12 member Syrian family. “There is much to do, but all participants in the process agree the challenges are worth it,” according Wolfe Island resident Judith Kinghorn. “One can only imagine the hardships and challenges the family has endured thus far with more challenges to come when they arrive in Canada with language training, education options, employment readiness and the weather to acclimatize to.”

The Refugee Support Group is comprised mostly of residents from South Frontenac and Wolfe Island, is open, in need of more people and funds. They are setting up the financing, negotiating for a house, finding space for donated clothing and household effects, making lists and completing tasks. And fund raising is an ongoing task with a very exciting event
taking place in Kingston on Sunday afternoon February 21st a 2:30 pm, at the First Baptist Church, located at 110 Sydenham St. The SHOUT SISTER choir has planned an exciting two hour concert to be followed by a Silent Auction including many interesting items. There will be no ticket charge but donations are welcome. For more information contact : Committee Media Contact, Ruth Allen.. relallen@hotmail.com

Around town: * The word is, Tim Hortons is scheduled to re-open on February 15th, as a drive-in, walk-in, no seating facility. * No ice in the bay, many unusual birds passing through.. *Hundreds of deer and turkey vultures.

Coming Events: *‘Shout Sisters Refugee Support Fund Raiser Sun. Feb. 21st First Baptist Church, Kingston 2:30 pm * Frontenac Islands Council Mon. Feb.8th 6:30 Howe Island. , * Winterfest Sun. Feb. 7th 1-3 pm WI Rink. “* WI Medical Walk In Clinic Tues 4:45, Thurs. 9:00 am Para Medic Wellness Clinic Feb. 5th 8:30 am. Specimen collection monthly 1st & 3rd Friday 8-10 am.

Posted by M Knott at 09:46 AM
January 26, 2016
Wolfe Island's Take back the Night Rally

WI_TBTN_Dec23_2015-again.gif A few weeks back a Wolfe Island Take Back the Night Rally in solidarity with survivors of sexual violence was organized by a group of local women including Sarah Eves, Community Education Coordinator at the Sexual Assault Centre of Kingston (SAC), “to raise awareness about rural communities and gender-based violence.”WI_TBTN_Crowd-again.gif

Choosing WI was due to an incident of sexual assault that occurred on the island but did not involve islanders. In spite of rain, there was a strong community turn out at the event, holding candles, to shed light on the reality of sexual violence.

Presenters from SAC Kingston included Elayne Furoy, Executive Director, and Sarah who spoke about specific challenges that tight-knit rural communities commonly face regarding trauma and disclosure of sexual violence. The Rally was used to begin conversations about what is often considered “too close to home.”
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With the Wolfe Island Fire Department’s assistance, residents raised over $1500 for the Sexual Assault Centre Kingston (SAC Kingston), which will help fund essential services such as rural transportation for clients/counsellors, awareness and prevention initiatives, programming (group counselling) and update Crisis Line equipment.
For more information about the Sexual Assault Centre Kingston www.sackingston.com

Posted by M Knott at 03:58 PM
January 21, 2016
Better Late than Never

The Holiday period left little space for keeping readers informed of the work of Frontenac Islands Council. What follows is intended as a catch-up. Mayor Doyle reminded me of the strong support and the work of Deputy Mayor Nossal and the councillors during the past year as he handled the Warden role.

The December meeting was held on Howe Island, chaired by Deputy Mayor Natalie Nossal, (in the absence of Mayor Doyle), and was attended by a number of interested members of the public.
1. Council received for information a planning report concerning ‘Unopened Road Allowance policies’ concerning roads that have been surveyed, and the notice of (2) two public meeting dates: Howe Island Council Chambers February 8th at 6 pm, and Wolfe Island Town Hall March 14th at 6 pm, prior to regular monthly council meetings, to provide information about those policies. Planner Joe Gallivan in response to a question by resident W. Knott , confirmed the recommendation that that those roads that lead to water are not to be sold and that a public meeting is required prior to any road closure. (Private roads are different issue.)
2. Howe Island Speed limit changes: a) To reduce speed to 50 km per hour on Howe Island Drive from Civic No. 790 to Civic No 1387, Frontenac Islands 22. b) to decrease speed to 60 km per hour on North Shore Road from Lower Side Road to Byrne Point Road.
3.Frontenac Islands Christmas Season closure dates announced and annual bonuses approved.
4. The townships of Frontenac County will work toward submitting a joint project funding application to the RED program , (RuralEconomic Development), of benefit to rural Ontario. CAO Plumley will join the other townships and the county in drafting the application.

There were items of interest brought to the attention of council under Other Business at the end of the December meeting including:
1. Councillor Springgay requested a sign Road #7051 indicating approximate ferry capacity limit. Also signage at gates of community centre indicating ice conditions and yes or no to skating.
2. WI Resident Doug Franks suggested as a RED Project the continuation of the KP trail project from the City of Kingston to Wolfe Island then on to Cape Vincent. W. Knott suggested the opening of the WI Canal.
3. Deputy Mayor Mayor Nossal, following up on communications issues with Bell Canada, said that Bell had indeed found deficiencies with lack of service cluster areas on the island with the (5) hot spots identified as 2016 projects.
4. Also Nossal and Deputy Clerk Carol Dwyre took the Lean Sigma Six Training (offered at the County) regarding fare collection at the County ferry.
5. Councillor Higgs thanked the HI Fire Service for raising funds and gathering food for the Food Bank. He also announced another meeting of the new HI Waste & Recycling Committee.

Following the meeting Deputy Mayor Nossal commented on two Howe Island Committees. “I am so heartened by the institution of Howe Island Ferry, and the Howe Island Waste & Recycling Committees, that incorporate interested individuals from the community who bring a wide variety of skills and experience to these two areas of concern,” she said. “Instead of having Council members as chairs, we asked that a community member serve as chair to ensure that these committees are firmly rooted in the community. With the support of township staff and council, I think we can expect to see improvements in service and communication as the result of the work of these committees.”

1. The Howe Island Ferry Committee’s purpose is to gather and discuss information pertaining to the Township (Foot Ferry), and to advise Council on ferry issues, operation and planning. An engaged group of committee members have met monthly since September 2015 and post a communiqué after each to keep the Howe Island community and, as a committee of Council, council receives their minutes. Members include Mike Quinn (chair), Ed Beseau, Robin Craig, Jennifer Medves, Jim Mills, Natalie Nossal and Bruce Higgs, with invaluable support from township staff, Rob Dillabough, Pat Quinn, and Darlene Plumley/Carol Dwyre.
2. The Howe Island Waste and Recycling Committee has met twice, is similar in scope and purpose to that of the Ferry Committee, t o advise/inform Council on issues, operation and planning but with regard to the island’s waste and recycling operation The committee is devising a series of educational flyers to distribute to the community, and a June open house ‘meet and greet’ . Members include Bill Robertson (chair), Steve Alls, Paul Beseau, JoAnne Forsythe, Natalie Nossal and Bruce Higgs, ably supported by Rob Dillabough and Carol Dwyre.

Around Town : * Did you know that the Wolfe Islander 111 is celebrating her 40th Anniversary. She was launched into Service for Wolfe Island on February 5, 1976 by then Ontario Minister of Transportation, James W. Snow .Watch for notices, twitters, face book, web site advisories of a daytime event to mark the occasion Maybe. Check with Tom, Jarda, Brian* Work continues to support a refugee family Watch for posters. For more information, contact Judith Kinghorn: jskinghorn@gmail.com or Clara Lovatt: claraagness48@gmail.com

Coming Events:** Noisy Locomotive & Catriona Sturton, Jan. 14th @ the WIPP 7 pm. *Frontenac Islands Budget Meeting: Mon. Jan. 18th, 10am WI Town * WI Winter Fest Feb. 7th at the Community Centre 1-3 pm. Chili, etc. & fun.

Posted by M Knott at 09:37 AM
January 07, 2016
Transportation major issue for Mayor in 2015

As the year draws to a close, it is fair to say that 2015 was a busy one for the Frontenac Islands Mayor Denis Doyle. He also served a term as Warden of Frontenac County during what was its 150th Anniversary year. In a year end review, Mayor Doyle highlighted transportation as both a high and a low of his tenure thus far.
”The first high that comes to mind involves our local MPP, Sophie Kiwala, who arranged a meeting with Transportation Minister Steven Del Duca, where Loyalist Township Mayor, Prince Edward County Mayor, and myself had an opportunity to explain our inadequate regional ferry capacity issues, especially with the Wolfe Islander III out of service for 7 months, rather than the usual 2.” Doyle said. “Our friends on Amherst were more severely impacted,” he added.
“As a result of the discussion Minister Del Duca came to a meeting on Wolfe Island, announced and chaired by MPP Sophie Kiwala, and committed to building a backup ferry which will be used to replace the Wolfe Islander-III and the Frontenac II when they are out of service (5 year inspection, etc.) We took this as an opportunity to work together with the MTO representatives who listened to our ferry service proposals and have committed to many improvements and of course, with MPP Kiwala.”
Mayor Doyle noted that since then the Preliminary Design and Environmental Assessment to commission a second, larger ferry for Wolfe Island has also formally started.
There were other issues pertaining to transportation during the course of 2015. One involved the Federal Department of Transport, that because of the Lac Megantic situation, barring passengers and vehicles on a ferry trips carrying dangerous goods. “By working through former MP Ted Hsu, and his work with then Federal Minister of Transportation, Lisa Raitt, we can once again carry passengers and other vehicles on these trips,” Doyle said. “It was heart warming to see federal representatives from different parties set aside their differences and work cooperatively to solve problems that affect individuals lives, and we owe those two professionals a great deal of thanks.
Mayor Doyle also noted that during 2014 the bubbler system on Howe was one of the worst issues that had to be dealt with. “But with MTO’s committed assistance we are now satisfied that the bubbler system issues for the Howe Island County Ferry have been addressed and the system is better than ever before. We are also working with them on resolving maintenance requirements for the docks on both Howe and Simcoe Islands,” he said.
“ The Howe ward established a Ferry committee which has been very successful in working with MTO and we have recently decided to do the same in the Wolfe ward with the prime objective of helping with the EA underway and determining how we can cope with the traffic until we get the new and larger second ferry in operation. We will also be working with the province political representatives, and MTO staff, to prioritize building the backup ferry which hopefully will be available in the two year time frame, while the larger ferry may realistically take 4 to 5 years. It’s obvious by working with our provincial partners to solve the issues we can come up with positive and significant improvements,” Mayor Doyle said.
Mayor Doyle was enthusiastic in his thanks to the Wolfe Island Waste Management Committee. “We have successfully transitioned the Wolfe waste site to a transfer station within budget. We are also diverting bio-waste to the De Bruin bio digester, an improvement which other municipalities have told us, can reduce normal waste by 35 to 40%. If everyone participates in this program that means up to 40% fewer trips to haul garbage across on the ferry.” There was mention of road improvements and of course the establishment of a community Keylock Gas pump station. Aspirations for the future of Frontenac Islands include moving forward on as much road work as is affordable, the senior housing project, improvements to the Howe Foot and Simcoe Island Ferry systems, increase of By-law enforcement, continuing to implement best management/business practices, and continuing to improve waste management and recycling, and looking for more cost effective ways to provide policing, which has increased by nearly four times our previous cost ( of major concern to all townships.) ”We hope to do all of this while keeping tax increases close to the inflation rate and will continue with the special levy of setting aside 1% of the overall budget to assist with asset replacement to address our current infrastructure deficit,” Doyle said.
In summarizing his term as Warden of Frontenac County and his ongoing participation as a member of County Council, Mayor Doyle commented on a very busy year. “We transitioned to a new Council with 5 new County Councillors, negotiated three union contracts, finalized the first Official Plan, worked on a senior housing plan, established a better working relation with the City of Kingston and our Provincial and Federal politicians, extending the K&P Trail to Tichborne, and various other activities. To Be Continued.
Around Town: Delighted winter has come.. * Great weather for the busy rink.* Wolfe Island Refugee Support group is now working in partnership with Frontenac Refugee Support Group. For information contact Judith Kinghorn: jskinghorn@gmail.com or Clara Lovatt: claraagness48@gmail.com Watch for Posters A fund raiser is planned **. The Lifelabs Specimen Clinic is January 8th , the next Jan. 15th, then 1st & 3rd Fridays. Paramedic Wellness Clinic is Fri. Jan.8th as well.
Coming Events: Hatha Yoga with Marlie 7 pm (4)Tuesdays beginning Jan. 5, 2016… St. Margaret’s Hall.**Winter Fest set for Feb.7th .

Posted by M Knott at 09:16 AM