Originally written for Port Rowan Good News during Noel Haydt’s 2014–2018 term as Ward 1 Councillor. Published here from the original archived document; spelling and wording have been preserved.
Over the past couple of months I have had numerous discussions regarding the Bridge on Concession A and I am continuing to address the issue. The bridge has been closed for a number of years due to the state of disrepair. Concession A could provide access to properties and also a faster route for emergency services to access homes. The main issue that I see is that the county was previously looking at installing a super structure bridge and the value of this would be approximately $1.2 million dollars and $400,000 for each of the 2 culverts. A price many taxpayers would find steep for a lightly traversed bridge. Council has sent this issue back to staff to evaluate options for a more affordable solution. The majority of residents, with whom I have spoken, have expressed they would be satisfied with a one lane bridge, large enough for emergency vehicles to pass. Concession A does not need to be a highway in my opinion.
When I went down to take a look at the bridge, there was a father and 2 daughters out appreciating the wildlife and taking their dog for a walk. Concession A is a great place for nature lovers to appreciate a lovely part of Norfolk County. I feel a small bridge would keep traffic slow and ensure local families and visitors are safe, keep the costs lower and the burden on the taxpayer to a minimum. The staff report will be coming back to council to make a decision and at that time I will need everyone’s support. In the meantime, your ideas and suggestions are always welcomed by the county and we would love to hear your opinions.
There has been a proposal put forward by Union Gas to bring natural gas to Forestville and Turkey Point. This proposal will start at Forestry farm Road and continue down Charlotteville Road 1 all the way to Turkey Point Road. This will include an extension on Charlotteville West Quarter Line covering Forestville proper. 30 metres from the main line will be included free of charge for connection to homes and $45 per metre thereafter will be charged to the homeowner. There will be a surcharge of $0.23 per cubic metre to users to pay for the extension; however, this will give additional options for heating/cooking, especially for residents reliant on expensive electric options.
I put forward a motion and received council’s unanimous support to ask staff to work with our local Internet Service Providers to look at options for running fiber optic internet at the same time as running the new gas to Forestville and Turkey Point. It makes sense to run the fiber optic cables at the same time as the gas while they are already trenching the new lines. Hopefully we can make this work and I will keep you posted on the outcome.
Thank you very much to the Walsingham Women’s institute for a wonderful Anniversary Luncheon. Your hard work in our Area has been appreciated for many years. You are such a lovely group of ladies and truly embody the volunteer spirit we are so proud of in our community.
Canada Day is only a couple of days away and I know many people are excited about the number and caliber of activities that will be taking place in our area. Canada Day in the Port Rowan Park will be taking place, as well as live music on the patio at the Port Rowan Legion. I have had many discussions with members of the community relating to how lucky we really are to be Canadians. With all of the atrocious acts being committed around the world we are very fortunate to be living in Canada. As Canadians we need to appreciate that we live in a country that is continuously strengthening and protecting human rights and freedoms and where we can express ourselves freely without fear of persecution. For myself, it has taken on a whole new meaning, as I live in a country where I have been given the privilege to represent a fantastic group of communities and the most beautiful county in Ontario. In many other countries, being a regular guy, a farmer and business owner, I may not have been given the opportunity, or have even been allowed to represent a wonderful group of people as your Ward 1 Councillor. I am very thankful for the privilege given and the morals, ethics and values held, not only, by the residents of Norfolk County, but by our great Nation as a whole.
This year, on Canada’s 150th Birthday, I hope everyone takes time to really appreciate what we have as Canadians, to appreciate the hard work that has gone into all of the events you will be attending and to realize that most of these events are put on by volunteers who just want to make their community better. I am very proud to be part of this community and to be Canadian. Proud to live in a country where we can set aside differences and accomplish great things. I realize some of us won’t be around for another 50 years, however, I stand here confident that Canada will remain a nation that is respected and looked to as a role model by other countries. As we move forward, teaching the next generations the same integrity, scruples and sense of honour is a job we must all take seriously. A job that will ensure Canada remains the steadfast, beautiful, amazing country we all love. I hope that everyone has a chance to get out and enjoy the festivities, to reflect, appreciate the time with family, have a lot of fun and to be thankful for everything we have. With love and appreciation from my family to yours…Cheers to Norfolk County, All Canadians and The True North Strong and Free.