AGM Message from the Outgoing President
The past year has been another busy one for the Ratepayers, with many local matters occupying our attention. As an association, we recognize that many of the issues are complex, and require more than just a simple ‘for’ or ‘against’ answer.
As permanent or seasonal residents of Muskoka, we complain about the tax load that we carry, but resist new development and the taxes they raise. We elect councillors to represent us and do their homework, and then question every decision they make (particularly if we don’t like it). We want things to remain unchanged, while at the same time demanding all the comforts of the city. This is not to suggest that decisions should not be scrutinized, but more that sometimes we need to make the best of a difficult situation.
Some of the areas in which your association has been involved during the past year include:
- Township and District Budgets — Earlier this year, we made representations to both the Township of Muskoka Lakes and the District of Muskoka. The District (which receives about ½ of our tax dollars) includes not only our Township, but also 5 other areas, and so we decided this time to make a joint budget presentation with LOBA (the Lake of Bays Association) and the MLA (Muskoka Lakes Association). The presentation went well, and I believe that our voices were heard and may have had some impact, but unfortunately, the normal opportunity for public input comes very late in the cycle. In the coming year, the Ratepayers intend to involve themselves much earlier n the budgeting process, and I am pleased that boththe Township and the District have already welcomed this approach.
- Port Carling Boundary Expansion — We continue to support the approach of ensuring that the issues are handled in an open and orderly manner. Over the past several years, reports have been produced, growth studies completed, public meetings held, and decisions made at both the Township and District levels. At this time, several groups have appealed differing aspects of the Official Plan Amendments to the Ontario Municipal Board, and the decisions are expected later this year. While many prefer to see no change in Muskoka, it is also essential that the region remain economically viable year round, and bringing more business to Port Carling is highly desirable if the expansion and development can be handled in an orderly manner.
- Touchstone — The MRA was instrumental in negotiating the original site plan agreement for Touchstone, which called for the building of a sewage treatment plant before opening for business. Although this plant has yet to be built, the MRA remains vigilant in pushing for it and the elimination of the sewage lagoons. In this regard, we met formally with senior officials at the Ministry of the Environment (Toronto and Barrie), and provided input to the Township in support of placing a "hold" designation on development beyond a specific size until the plant is built.
- Bala Fall — Much has been said and written about the proposed small hydro facility at Bala Falls. The MRA has met with groups expressing both opposition and support for the facility, including the Township, Swift River Energy Limited, and the Ministry of Natural Resources. We made a formal response to the Environmental Screening Report issued last fall, and have met with Swift River as part of the follow-up process. This development results from the Province’s focus on renewable / green energy projects, and in our estimation this focus is not likely to change, particularly in light of the recent approval of 184 power-purchase contracts for green energy by the province. Given that fact, we feel we should work toward the best possible outcome that would address both the needs of the permanent residents of Muskoka, and the concerns of the seasonal residents. We formulated our questions to Swift River from those two perspectives, and believe that there is a willingness from all parties to address these. Amongst other things, Swift River has indicated their readiness to work with the Township on a permanent snowmobile / pedestrian bridge. A full economic impact study is also required to ensure that the community benefits from any development. As well, we feel that community and Muskoka groups in determining the final design of the facility.
- Torrance Barrens — The MRA was instrumental in the creation of the Barrens, and played a significant part in the ten-year celebration of the Barrens last October. We also funded new informative signage.
- Stephen Road — As part of the Streetscape program for Port Carling, a stone retaining wall was built across from the Township offices. While very attractive, it proved somewhat of an obstacle to those entering District Road 118 from Stephen Road. The MRA brought this to the attention of the Township who responded quickly and will study the situation further
Looking Forward
- Elections 2010 — This is an election year, and we will be voting for a Mayor, Township Councillors, and District Councillors (3). The Ratepayers feel that it is very important for everyone to vote, and that we all be well informed. That is why we will be once again hosting an "All Candidates" meeting where you can hear from the candidates themselves, and ask questions. The meeting will be held at the Glen Orchard School on Saturday September 25, starting at 10 am. Please make every effort to come out and listen to those who wish to represent you for the next 4 years
The work of associations such as the MRA requires individuals and skills to make things happen. For seasonal residents of Muskoka, it is all too easy to sit back and let others do that work (while of course retaining the right to criticize them for not doing enough, or for taking a stand of which they do not approve). For permanent residents of Muskoka, it is easy to assume that associations such as ours are for the summer folk only, and not to get involved. To both groups (permanent and seasonal), I would ask that you take a second look at becoming involved with us (or other associations). For Muskoka to work for us all, we require a viable year-round economy, thriving communities including Bala and Port Carling, the purchase of goods and services locally, and respect by all for a unique way of life. Muskoka is very special we all need to work together to keep it vibrant
Peter Long, Muskoka Ratepayers' Past President