The August Township meeting was held here on Howe Island. The attached agenda didn't include much information related specifically to us, however some of the 'Other Business' items not on the agenda are of interest to Howe Islanders.

Item 6, the transfer of Treasury functions to County of Frontenac. You'll recall this item from the July meeting (posted previously) and the fact that all Township financial transactions will be handled by the County. Seems cost and not having a cancellation clause are being questioned by the Township. While an October 1 transition (January 1 for payroll) is being planned, the costs for software license fees, training, etc. for the appropriate programmes haven't been determined. As well, a five year contract is being discussed but without any cancellation clauses. Negotiations will continue. Wayne Grant is the only councilor that voted against this matter at the July meeting and continues to argue against it.

Item 9, Ontario Electronic Stewardship re: electronic waste diversion or 'e-waste management' will take a higher priority on the islands and this initiative will be on the September agenda. You will recall the Howe Island Waste Management Committee under Matt Fiene was disbanded but it seems with this Provincial initiative, the committee could be reinstated. Also, and it's on HIRA's agenda, a discussion on recycling of coloured and clear glass as well as returnable bottles was discussed and will be open for further review.

Any Other Business, Item 1, the sale of Lot 5 on Howe Island Drive. Two offers were made on the lot but rejected due to not meeting or nearing the asking price of $225,000. The Mayor asked Council what they wanted to do with the property as he stated there is a drainage problem. Pat Norris stated that the Township didn't have a drainage problem. After a discussion, the Mayor requested that council members review the consultant's opinion and be prepared to review at the October meeting on Howe.

Any Other Business, Item 2, Lighthouse Lane Park. Prior to receiving your 2008 tax notice and with it, the message from the Township, did anyone know a park was being planned at the end of Lighthouse Lane? The Mayor asked how it was coming along and the fact that bigger rocks were needed and asked if anyone on Howe could assist with such a request. Not much of a discussion but following the meeting, HIRA asked Pat and Matt what was being planned and would islanders be notified and possibly asked for their input...nothing forthcoming from the Councilors at that time. We await further information.

Any Other Business, Item 3, County ferry out of service for a Transport Canada hull inspection. As noted on the HIRA website, the County advised us of this inspection. The inspection was mentioned at the meeting without any more information than we have; however, it was stated by the Clerk/CAO, Terry O'Shea that the Township ferry will be thoroughly inspected and if needed, serviced prior to the County ferry being removed for the inspection.

The meeting ended around 8:20. The next meeting is on Wolfe Island on September 8 at 6:30.

If you have any comments or concerns, please contact me.

Terry Botten
Chair