Autumn, 2004

MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING WHISPERING PINES RESORT, July 26, 1997

The President, Mr. John McGowan, called the meeting to order and thanked Barry and Donna Verch, Elmer & Carol Ann Plath, Paul Schooley and Brian Casey for the use of Whispering Pines. Bob Peltzer proposed, with Ken Render seconding, that the minutes of the 1996 AGM which had been circulated with the Spring Newsletter, be approved as written. Carried.

1. President's Report (John McGowan)

John noted that on-going issues had been discussed in the newsletter. The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) had asked for a nomination for a district fishing advisory committee and Ping Green's name had been submitted.

John indicated that he would not be standing for re-election. He had enjoyed his term and felt there were a few items that would have to be addressed soon: a) updating the constitution and rules of procedure for meetings; b) in order to deal with developments and new rules at the provincial level, the Association might have to become more proactive; c) may be a need for a significant increase in membership fees; and d) the Association should be involved in the development of a strategy for winter creel collection.

Sebastopol Recreation Committee donation

The Executive had again approved a donation of $300 to the Sebastopol Recreation Committee for Canada Day celebrations and other activities.

2. Past President's Report (John Shane):

Marker buoys: The buoys are out in the usual places and will be removed in the Fall.

3. FOCA Steward's Report/Water Clarity (Ping Green):

Water clarity: Ping Green reported that only one water sample had been submitted to Toronto so far to test for phosphates and results will not be available until year end. Last year the readings for phosphates had been normal to good. The clarity testing using a Secchi disc continues to be good. Remember to restrict the use of fertilizers and leave as much vegetation as possible close to shore.

Lead Sinkers: Remember to remove lead sinkers from your fishing box - they are a real threat to loons and other wild fowl, many of whom are seen to be dying from lead poisoning.

FOCA Meeting: Pat Hartney had attended the Fall FOCA meeting and details of the main topics were described and distributed with the newsletter.

4. Treasurer's Report (Pat Hartney):

Pat Hartney gave the financial report. Membership stands at 237. Income for the year was $1187.20. The main expenditures were: $300 for the Sebastopol recreation Committee; $609.85 for FOCA expenses; $103.01 for printing and postage and $125.50 for the Annual Meeting giving total expenditures of $1170.90. The current balance is $506.77. The report was approved.

5. Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) - Kirby Punt (Senior Fisb/Wildlife Oflcer in Pembroke)

Kirby had the results of recent netting activities. When comparing with the 1994 netting results, he was pleased with the figures. His bar graphs showed a good distribution of 1 to 6 year old walleye with the maximum number at approximately 20 cm 3 year old fish. The size limit is 45 cm and the netting indicates that those in the region of 47 cm are gone. He feels that there is a lot of fishing pressure but the current limits are working and allowing the fish to spawn. He feels the walleye fishery would not be sustained without the limits and does not recommend any change. The perch population is still holding with more small ones than in 1994. The smallmouth bass is also doing well, finding some up to 12 years old and compares well with other lakes in the county.

The decrease in lake trout and deterioration of its habitat was the reason for the introduction of walleye. The situation of spawning grounds is still a problem. MNR is introducing some brood stock from a New York location which are used to a more eutrophic environment, mature in 3 to 4 years instead of 7 and they hope they will do well. It is important that we release as many as possible and closure on lake trout would be ideal. The natural lake trout are almost certainly gone and those others need help. MNR has done a lot of work on the lake since 1986 but funding is now gone. Any help with cleaning shoals, encouraging release fishing and taking an angling creel, especially in the Winter would be welcome. An army of volunteers is needed.

A general discussion ensued. Someone asked "Where are the pike?" and Kirby assured them that they are there. The consensus was that an advisory committee was required to develop a future fishing strategy for the lake. Many said that the greatest pressure on the fishery was in the Winter and was there no hope of closing it completely. Kirby commented that MNR had looked into this in 1993 and public consensus did not favour closure. He reminded us that there is winter closure on lake trout and at all times there is a slot size (between 40 and 55 cm have to be released).

Sylvie Pinard proposed and John Shane seconded that the LCPOA recommend to MNR that winter fishing be closed for two years. In discussion on the motion, many concerns were raised; difficulty in policing, such a policy can't be put into effect in a short space of time, since input is required from local residents, fish and game clubs etc., to assess the impact on other local lakes. Also changes in regulations have to be published. Many felt that this was not a practical motion. What may be possible is to ban ice shacks so that people would still be able to cut a hole and fish in a recreational fashion for a shorter time. Bob Peltzer proposed with Bob Dewis seconding an amendment that tasks MNR to ban the use of ice shacks, trailers, vehicles or any structure used for purpose of winter fishing. The original motion was defeated but the amendment carried.

John thanked Kirby for attending and we look forward to working with him over the next year. It was again reiterated that we find some way of getting interested parties together to develop a fishing strategy for the lake.

6. Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) - Bruce Tiernay

Bruce told us that his comments were really the same as last year. He works out of Renrew and is part of a marine/snowmobile unit which patrols the lake, sometimes on their own, sometimes with MNR officers. Their job is to make waterways as safe as possible. They enforce drinking regulations, speed limits (less than 10 km/hour within 30 metres of shore), boat registration, presence of life-jackets, sounding devices and running lights (flashlights are not valid). Bruce covers a wide area and strongly urged us to assist them by reporting dangerous boating habits. The best way to get a response is to use Crime Stoppers, an anonymous call reporting as much detail as possible - e.g., description of event, registration number of boat or vehicle, etc. He advised us that the "days of sitting on butts" is over and we have to get involved. There had been no calls on Crime Stoppers re dangerous boating, abuse of private roads or anything else. The police have to respond to such calls so it is the way to get attention.

In his patrols, he had not encountered troublesome sea-doos, although he knew there bad been some problans with them and boats too fast too close to shore. Path is the central dispatch point and the telephone #s are: Perth 1-888-310-1122; Killaloe 757-2600. The national Crime Stoppers # is 1-800-222-TIPS (i.e., 1-800-222-8477). All calls are routed to local police and they have to respond.

7. Sebastopol Township - Arlene Felhaber, Bob Peltzer, Glen Kosmack

Arlene brought greetings from Council. The council had awarded the Senior of the Year Award to Norma Howell. They are open to other suggestions if anyone would like to submit a profile of a deserving candidate for consideration.

Discussion the proposed amalgamation of Sebastopol, Grattan, South Algona and Eganville municipalities continues. Arlene feels that is important to keep our own identity but have a central seat of government and also negotiate the best financial benefits.

911 Road Naming: Proposed road names are now under review and no complaints have been received.

Shoreline Purchase: A Shoreline Alteration By-law was passed to enable owners to apply to purchase shoreline, subject to rules and guidelines.

After the owners had upgraded a section of Sebastopol Road #7, Arlene was pleased to report that it had now been assumed by the Township.

A computer had been purchased for the Township office from the proceeds from CBC's filming last year at Foymont.

Earlier tax collection The date will be brought forward from March 31st to March 15th. This year Council had to cash in a T-bill to forward the school taxes in time.

The new building inspector is Mark Schroeder from Golden Lake. There are some cbanges in the rules, e.g., there is no longer a fee for roofing and not usually for siding which is an incentive for people to upgrade their property. Check with the municipal office if in doubt.

The by-law enforcement officer is Anna Kosmack. If there is a problem, report it at the time. Tales of an animal at large several hours after the fact is not effective.

Roads: Council received a small infrastructure grant which was used to correct a problem with water on the Lake Clear Road.

It was our volunteer firemen's 20th anniversary and during the Canada Day celebrations, commemorative plaques were presented.

Arlene thanked us for giving her the opportunity to report on council's behalf and appreciated the good rapport between the Association and Council.

8. Election of Board of Directors: (Rosemary Drefke)

Rosemary Drefke, chairperson of the nominating committee, proposed a slate of oRicers for 1997/98. No further nominations were received from the floor. Mr. Fisher proposed, Philip Lancaster seconded that the Executive be elected as proposecL The 1997-98 Executive is:

Past Presidcnt: John McGowan
President: Guy Jamieson
Vice President: Wayne Gorman
Secretary: Dianne Hicks
Membership/Treasurer: Pat Hartney
FOCA Steward: Ping Green
Sebastopol Steward: John Shane
Kilby Shore: Harry Goulet
Mud Lake: Ken Render
Hayley's Bay: Cynthia Bourne
Little Lake Clear: Con Luty
Heideman Bay: Guy Jamieson
Big Rock: Jim Beckett and Jan Green
Plaunt's Mountain: Wayne Gorman and Carl Devries
Weiland Shore: Rosemary Drefke and Marg McGowan
Buelow's Bay: Liz Murphy and Heather Doyle

Sally Gillis agreed that her name be submitted for consideration as a FOCA Director at large.

9. Other Business - Proposed Change to the Offcial Plan and a Zoning By-law

The chairman intimated that the objective of the discussion was for the LCPOA to take a position on the application for a change to the Sebastopol Official Plan and a zoning by-law to accommodate a dwelling on Turner's Island, as discussed at the meeting of July 8th.

He intimated he would allow time for clarification of technical issues and then call for a motion from the floor. He also reminded members that the discussion should be objective and non- personal and that all questions and comments would be directed to the Chair.

The Reeve said that the MNR does not oppose the development of existing lots of record on islands subject to conditions such as:

• seasonal residential zoning only
• demonstrated access route with adequate parking
• approved waste disposal
• appropriate environmental impact studies

1. Assuming there is approved sewage systems, what provision is required for pumping out septic systems? Response: The Health Department approves and monitors the installation of septic systems but has no involvement in maintenance and pumping out.
2. How many owners are there on Turner's Island? Response: Two owners, one parcel of 64 acres and one of 14 acres. The Reeve stated that there would be no further subdivision and there could be only one dwelling on each lot.
3. Would the amendment apply to all islands assuming all (titles, setback, environmental etc.) conditions are met? Response: The Reeve would like to treat all applications on a case by case basis; however, the County Planner, Gregory Pulham recommended previously any amendment would apply to all privately owned islands, not just Turners.
4. Is Council aware that an 'R' Plan was registered with the County Land Registry Office, stating that it was understood that such a document could be used as first steps toward future subdivision? Response: Although Council representatives did admit that this was new information, later speakers assured the meeting that an R Plan is the current way of documenting survey results. It is simply a legal description. The owner of the 64 acres of Turners Island stated that the survey was needed to get cleared deed to the land and he had no plans to subdivide further.
5. Which are the private islands on Lake Clear? Response: There are five: Turner, Greene(Burnt), Twin, Cherry, and Little Rock and all are deeded.
6. What exactly does the zoning change mean and could it lead to commercial use? Response: The Reeve stated that it would allow a seasonal residential dwelling, i.e., not a year round permanent home and there could be no commercial use.
7. What is meant by an existing lot of record? Response: This a confusing issue, some understand a piece of land surveyed prior to 1971 and bearing a unique tax assessment; others say 1986, i.e., before the Official Plan. There is question if either is valid and MOE should be consulted.

Comments on Motion from the floor:

1. Applicants for the amendment and re-zoning knew of the Official Plan (i.e., no development on islands) when they purchased the land. If the amendment is approved and the Crown sells off additional land including islands at a later date, then all islands would be subject to development.
2. In 1986 when the Official Plan was being drawn up all LCPOA members were given the opportunity on commenting on the submission to Council and no objections were raised. A lot of thought and effort was made to develop an Official Plan and a lot of thought should be given before changing it - is this change for the better'? Applause indicated general support.
3. The owner of one of the Turner Island properties stated that he had researched the issue and had known the contents of the Official Plan including no building on islands; however, on approaching the Ministries of Environment, Natural Resources and Health, he found that they had no objection as his lot of record pre-dates the Of5cial Plan and thus does not fall under it. All that he needed is a zoning change He said that he felt he could fight any refusal of this amendment request and eventually win it.
4. The owner also said that 3 years ago he had written Council and the LCPOA offering to lease a section of his land to be designated as a park but had been turned down by Council. The secretary of the LCPOA sated that no such offer or any correspondence pertaining to it had come before the Executive.
5. Several members spoke on behalf of the motion reminding the meeting how hard the residents had worked over the years, solved problems relating to water quality, PCBs, fishing, maintenance of shoreline, etc. They commented on the pleasure of having the islands free of development. Many cottages had been in families for several generations and their owners were not in favour of any major change.
6. Similarly, several members spoke in opposition of the motion as long as all development was dealt with according to the pertinent rules and regulations. One member commented that two buildings on Turners Island were preferable to indiscriminate camping on all the islands. Another member felt that approval of this zoning change might make it easier for other severances and future zoning changes to take place around the lake.

The meeting was closed at approximately 11:30 a.m.

1. Minutes of 1998 AGM: John Shane proposed that the minutes of the 1998 meeting be approved as written.  Harry Goulet seconded the motion.  All were in favour and the motion was carried.
2. President's Report (Guy Jamieson): Guy reported that there was no additional news other than the Newsletter.  He thanked the Shore Reps. for their efforts and stated that he had heard of no problems around the lake.
3. Financial Report (Guy Jamieson): Guy outlined the major expenses during the past year were the Winter and Summer Newsletters, attendance at the FOCA Fall and Spring seminars, stationery, postage and office expenses.  The balance as of July 24, 1999 is $75.00 with an outstanding account with FOCA still unpaid.  Looking ahead at the anticipated revenue and expenses, the financial situation will be improved with the increase of membership dues to $10.00.  This will enable us to pay the FOCA bill next year in the Spring when it arrives.  There were no questions from the floor.
4. Sebastopol Township Report (Deputy Reeve Bob Peltzer): Updates were provided in several areas:
• Amalgamation: The new amalgamated municipality will have a population of approximately 5,000.  This is still small in overall provincial standards.  Due to provincial downloading and less money from the province, taxes have increased.  There should, however, be no change in service with respect roads.
• Waste study:  There have been some problems with the Pembroke Area Waste Management Study.  Forcing a waste site on hostile land owners simply does not work.  Sebastopol is not a part of the study.  The waste site on hwy. 512 is inadequate and the Allison Fraser existing site may be a good option.  There will be an information session at the Shady Nook on July 27th at 7:00 p.m.  It is believed that in 1-2 years the hwy. 512 site will become a transfer station, with garbage possibly being transferred to Allison Fraser as the cost of landfill is prohibitive for a small community.


According to the MOEE, the hwy. 512 site is not in compliance as it appears there may be a migration of leachate to neighbouring properties.  Once the site is closed, the leachate will decrease over the years.  The MOEE will advise on options available.  Contaminated sites still may meet the criteria for safe drinking water.

Identifying and remedying these problems may be one of the biggest expenses for the Township this year.  The last study cost $17,800 and that may be just the tip of the iceberg.  Copies of the report can be made available and Peltzer welcomed calls and suggested interested parties call the Municipal Office in Foymount.
 

• Road Safety Zones: Peltzer advised that last year the province authorized a program regarding road safety zones which included special law enforcement for Official Safety Zones.  Fines can be doubled in these designated areas.  Other options for these areas could be speed bumps.  He suggested that concerned parties document their concern and forward same to the Township.
• OPP: Peltzer informed that Constable, Jane Dedo sits on the OPP Advisory Council and is our representative.  There are two information sessions in the near future: at the Golden Lake Community Centre, August 25 at 7:00 p.m. and at the Opeongo Seniors Centre, Barry's Bay, August 28th at 9:00 a.m.
• Turner Island: The Turner Island issue has been resolved.  Before building can commence, a site plan is now required as well as an inventory of the red pines.  The overall cost to the Municipality was $35,000, however, the Township would have incurred this cost at any rate.  A site plan will now be required for all future development on any island, including the balance of Turner Island.
• Miscellaneous: Regarding complaints the LCPOA receives re Lake Clear water levels being too high, Peltzer advised that the Township has no control and he was reluctant to express an opinion.  We in fact may be lucky in comparison to other lakes.  The water level on Lake Clear hasn't change more than one foot in 13 years.
 
A question came from the floor regarding the culvert on Manning Road where Hurds Creek water was higher on one side of the road - was the culvert plugged?  Peltzer explained that it is the responsibility of Renfrew County to clean out culverts.  If anyone called the Township office with concerns, they would pass on the information to Mr. Beckman's office at the County.
 
Beverly Mantell pointed out that we used to have active volunteers who went out and unclogged culverts along Hurds Creek.
 
The LCPOA  has received complaints that garbage now can't be walked in to the site.  According to Peltzer when the dump is not manned it is a requirement of the MOEE that people not be allowed in.
 
Jim Beckett commended the dump custodian as being very courteous and extremely helpful in sorting recyclable materials.  This comment drew applause from the floor.
It was mentioned from the floor that not having Saturday hours makes it difficult for people who are only here on occasion on week-ends.  Peltzer will bring this up at Township.  Peltzer did point out that fish remains should not go to the dump, but should be composted.
 
Peltzer closed his presentation by mentioning that meetings of Council are always open and they are held the first Tuesday and Wednesday of every month.  Rate payers are invited to attend and to write if there are any concerns.  All letters are dealt with.
 
5. Lake Steward Report (Ping Green):  A phosphate sample was taken last year and the results are in the normal range which indicates good water quality.


The clarity tests have been 4 to 6.5 m (21') which is comparable to last year.  These reading are in the good to excellent range.  The LCPOA is participating in a program called the Great Ontario Dip In whereby clarity tests are taken in all participating lakes during the first 5 days in July, providing an overall view.

Some of the necessary equipment for zebra mussel testing was not received .  Testing will be completed when equipment arrives.

There are new boating regulation and insurance requirements.  An insurance rider can be put on one's existing cottage policy for 3rd party liability which is less expensive than a separate policy.  A booklet entitled Safe Boating Guide published by the Canadian Coast Guard was available for hand out after the meeting.
 

6. FOCA (Sally Gillis): Sally Gillis advised an environmentally friendly cleaning product line is now available at Ron Nelson's as well as Rosa's Health Food Store.


Hydro: FOCA as been responsible for reductions in rates and/or no increases in rural rates this year.  FOCA is trying ot sustain telephone rates as well.

Cottage Watch pilot programs will soon be underway.

FOCA has a Membership Committee which is expanding their membership via new classification; members can get all mailings.  A Cottage Life subscription is included in the membership.

FOCA has a Lake Steward's Manual which is an excellent resource manual for lakeside living.  Sally will try to get a copy to the Eganville Library.

FOCA T-shirts, as modeled by Sally which have imprinted I'D RATHER BE AT THE COTTAGE are available to all for $16.00.

Sally pointed out that in the Lake Steward's Newsletter there is an excellent article by John Boos on lake trout.

The pet project for the FOCA Environment Committee this year is septic systems.
 

7. Amalgamation Committee Update (John McGowan):  John provided an update on the Amalgamation Committee and pointed out that the Committee was established due to the thrust of amalgamation and revised land use policies.  John reviewed the mandate and objectives of the committee.  He advised that the Committee has been in contact with the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing and has been advised that current Official Plans and Zoning By-laws will remain in force until new ones are implemented.  Any new land use policies must be in accordance with the Province.  A letter had been received from Minister, Al Leach, which was positive and encouraged the Committee to continue its efforts.  John raised two key points: does the membership wish the Committee to proceed, and more volunteers are required.


Question from the f loor: How much will it cost?
Answer: There have been no significant costs incurred.  Any small costs have been taken care of by the Committee members personally.

A show of hands from the floor indicated the membership wished the committee to continue, however, no volunteers stepped forward.
 

8. Ministry of Natural Resource Report: President, Guy Jamieson read a report prepared by John Boos who was unable to attend.  A copy of this report, entitiled The Fishery of Lake Clear is attached.
9. OPP Report (Guy Jamieson): Due to an early morning tragedy the OPP representative was unable to attend.  Jamieson did point out, however, that there are some new safety requirements for boaters to have on board which include a waterproof flashlight, bailing device, minimum 15 metre rope, floating device or a rope with floating characteristics.
10. Presentation to the Bourne Family (Guy Jamieson):  Guy present a plaque and certificate of appreciation posthumously to Debbie and David Bourne, two of three children of the late Bill and Cynthia Bourne, in recognition of their parent's tireless efforts in the preservation of Lake Clear and its Islands.
11. Election of Officers (Rosemary Drefke): The new slate of Officers nominated and elected for 1999/2000 are:

 

Past President:	John McGowan
President:	Guy Jamieson
Secretary Treasurer:	Bob Dewis
Membership:	Sandy Braithwaite
Lake Steward:	Ping Green
Area Directors:	Kilby Shore:	Harry Goulet
	Mud Lake:	Ray Barrette
	Hayley's Bay:	Christine Netherton
	Little Lake Clear:	Con Luty
	Heideman Bay:	Guy Jamieson
	Big Rock:	Jim Becket and Jan Green
	Plaunt's Mountain:	Wayne Gorman
	Weiland Shore:	Rosemary Drefke and Marg McGowan
	Buelow's Bay	Heather Doyle and Liz Murphy

It was moved by Jan Green and seconded by Bob Peltzer that the above slate be accepted.  All were in favour.
 

12. Poker Run (Guy Jamieson): The President outlined the plans for a Poker Run and social evening to be held later in the day.  The objective is to raise funds to offset the LCPOA's debt of approximately $4,700 still owing in relation to legal costs incurred regarding Turner Island.
13. Meeting adjourned: Jim Beckett moved and Ernie Ryan seconded that the meeting be adjourned at approximately 11:30 a.m.

The Association participated in the Canadian Lakes Loon survey again this year.  Sightings were recorded over the summer and incorporated into the survey forms which were forwarded in October to Bird Studies Canada located in Port Rowan, Ontario.  The survey covers four age classes - downy young, small young, large young and adults.

In this year's survey, no young birds of any class were sighted.  There were up to a dozen adults sighted in a day, at different locations, in a two hour tour.  According to past survey results no young birds have been sighted for serveral years.  The reasons put forward appear not to be an egg fertility or hatchintg problem, as the Spring and Summer conditions were ideal for the past couple of years.  The most probable reasons are increased boat traffic (volume and size) and human activity.  The probable cause is because loons nest at the water's edge, therefore wave action is destroying the nests.  The survey data indicates a large increase in human activity with the greatest increase during the nesting period.

Adult loons are known to travel considerable distance to find food.  The large number of adult birds is a good indication the Lake Clear has become a feeding area for surrounding loon populations.  The end results are that Lake Clear will not likely be a successful nesting area in view of human activities, but will continue as an adult feeding areas so long as the fish population remains viable.

Anyone interested in this topic can contact: Bill Mantell or Ping Green

.