| August, 2023 |
Port Carling Locks and Muskoka Steamships Partnership - Muskoka District Council has approved the usage of a 'dry-dock' to accommodate Muskoka Steamships at the Large Lock. After thanksgiving, the historic steamships require an inspection that only the Large Locks can accommodate, to ensure the Steamships can continue to operate in our Muskoka Lakes. Stay tuned for opportunities for our community to join in on this unique experience.
Learn more about the Port Carling Locks and stay updated on operating hours.
Financial Audit Statements - Independent auditors have provided a clean audit opinion, indicating that our financial statements accurately represent the District's financial position and operations - this reinforces the trust and confidence placed in the District by our residents.
Learn more about what these statements mean, explore the financials in detail, or to learn more about how to get involved, please visit our Budgets and Statements page.
Read our latest News Release - Showing You Your Money.
Enhancing Healthcare Efficiency - The approval of funding and agreements for the Dedicated-Nurses program signifies our dedication to improving emergency response and patient care. By having dedicated nurses available at Muskoka hospitals, our District Muskoka Paramedic Services ambulance hours can be saved, allowing them to return to the field, and be available for the next call. This program will enhance the efficiency of the healthcare system, ensuring patients receive timely and appropriate care, and alleviating strain on emergency services - if you call, Muskoka Paramedic Services will be there.
Learn more about this funding and what it means for Muskoka Paramedic Services, see the Committee Report.
Housing, Housing, Housing - The Rapid Housing Initiative, which includes funding for the development of affordable housing units, was approved. The project has a total cost of approximately $8.4 million, with a District contribution of $3.35 million. The funding will be used to address housing needs and homelessness challenges in Muskoka - this reflects our commitment to supporting and making progress on affordable housing options.
Learn more about how we support our community, please visit our Housing page.
Commitment to Long-Term Care - The work and research included in the information provided regarding Long-Term Care Homes' budget costs and contracts for staffing agency services, courtyard safety project, and IT services at The Pines Long-Term Care Home, demonstrates the commitment to providing high-quality care for our residents. These decisions reflect the ongoing efforts to enhance the living environment, ensure adequate staffing levels, and maintain up-to-date technology and infrastructure, so we can continue to provide exceptional care for our community.
Learn more about the Pines and our commitment to long-term care in Muskoka, visit our Long-Term Care page.
Muskoka Paramedic Services - updates on opioid-related call volume and the naloxone kit distribution program were offered. By providing naloxone kits and educating the public on their proper administration, the Committee supports Muskoka Paramedic Services and empowering community members to respond effectively to opioid emergencies. This initiative can potentially save lives and mitigate the impact of opioid-related incidents in Muskoka.
Interested in becoming a Paramedic? Learn more about Muskoka Paramedic Services.
Seniors Community Grant - Coming soon for our older adults - a fraud prevention workshop series. This is a positive step towards safeguarding seniors in the community. This initiative will raise awareness and provide educational resources to prevent fraud targeting older adults. The corresponding budget amendments ensure the necessary funding is allocated to support the workshop series, emphasizing the community's commitment to protecting its senior population.
Learn more about our Older Adult and Seniors Programs, visit our Seniors and Older Adult program page.
Second Home Study - Thank you to our Second Home owners who completed our survey over the winter break. We value your feedback - and staff read every comment. Our Second Home Study Final Report was received and will be used to inform the Growth Strategy and Development Charge Background Study. The study provides valuable insights into our second home owners, property usage trends, and rental patterns in Muskoka. By utilizing the study results, we can develop informed policies and initiatives that address your priorities.
- Learn more about our Second Home Study and what we heard, explore our Committee Report.
|
| July, 2023 |
|
This is only a snapshot, explore the full discussion by watching the recorded video or reading our Reports:
Strategic Plan Update - District Council has approved our District Strategic Plan for 2023-2026, incorporating feedback from the community and staff. The plan outlines the District's priority areas and objectives for the coming years. Next steps involve the development of a Corporate Action Plan to implement the objectives under each priority area. This action plan will be presented to District Council in September - so we can show the progress staff is making to support our communities and concentrate on the priorities that matter. Stay tuned for more information about our progress on the priorities you identified.
Learn more about our Strategic Plan - we got it right! Visit our Engage Muskoka page.
Financial Audit Statements - Independent auditors have provided a clean audit opinion, indicating that our financial statements accurately represent the District's financial position and operations - this reinforces the trust and confidence placed in the District by our residents.
Learn more about what these statements mean, explore the financials in detail, or to learn more about how to get involved, please visit our Budgets and Statements page.
Read our latest News Release - Showing You Your Money.
Enhancing Healthcare Efficiency - The approval of funding and agreements for the Dedicated-Nurses program signifies our dedication to improving emergency response and patient care. By having dedicated nurses available at Muskoka hospitals, our District Muskoka Paramedic Services ambulance hours can be saved, allowing them to return to the field, and be available for the next call. This program will enhance the efficiency of the healthcare system, ensuring patients receive timely and appropriate care, and alleviating strain on emergency services - if you call, Muskoka Paramedic Services will be there.
Learn more about this funding and what it means for Muskoka Paramedic Services, see the Committee Report.
Housing, Housing, Housing - The Rapid Housing Initiative, which includes funding for the development of affordable housing units, was approved. The project has a total cost of approximately $8.4 million, with a District contribution of $3.35 million. The funding will be used to address housing needs and homelessness challenges in Muskoka - this reflects our commitment to supporting and making progress on affordable housing options.
Learn more about how we support our community, please visit our Housing page.
Commitment to Long-Term Care - The work and research included in the information provided regarding Long-Term Care Homes' budget costs and contracts for staffing agency services, courtyard safety project, and IT services at The Pines Long-Term Care Home, demonstrates the commitment to providing high-quality care for our residents. These decisions reflect the ongoing efforts to enhance the living environment, ensure adequate staffing levels, and maintain up-to-date technology and infrastructure, so we can continue to provide exceptional care for our community.
Learn more about the Pines and our commitment to long-term care in Muskoka, visit our Long-Term Care page.
Muskoka Paramedic Services - updates on opioid-related call volume and the naloxone kit distribution program were offered. By providing naloxone kits and educating the public on their proper administration, the Committee supports Muskoka Paramedic Services and empowering community members to respond effectively to opioid emergencies. This initiative can potentially save lives and mitigate the impact of opioid-related incidents in Muskoka.
Interested in becoming a Paramedic? Learn more about Muskoka Paramedic Services.
Seniors Community Grant - Coming soon for our older adults - a fraud prevention workshop series. This is a positive step towards safeguarding seniors in the community. This initiative will raise awareness and provide educational resources to prevent fraud targeting older adults. The corresponding budget amendments ensure the necessary funding is allocated to support the workshop series, emphasizing the community's commitment to protecting its senior population.
Learn more about our Older Adult and Seniors Programs, visit our Seniors and Older Adult program page.
Second Home Study - Thank you to our Second Home owners who completed our survey over the winter break. We value your feedback - and staff read every comment. Our Second Home Study Final Report was received and will be used to inform the Growth Strategy and Development Charge Background Study. The study provides valuable insights into our second home owners, property usage trends, and rental patterns in Muskoka. By utilizing the study results, we can develop informed policies and initiatives that address your priorities.
- Learn more about our Second Home Study and what we heard, explore our Committee Report.
|
| June, 2023 |
District Committee Updates - Making Decisions to Move Communities Forward: Committee Chairs from Engineering and Public Works, Finance and Corporate Services, Community and Planning Services, Health Services and updates from your new Accessibility Advisory Committee were discussed and supported.
| Summary of Standing Committee Updates - Muskoka District Council, June 2023 |
- Engineering and Public Works Committee - A new program for large item collection is in Muskoka's future.
- We will be considering this plan and the information put forth by staff, during our 2024 budget deliberations.
- Explore the full agenda and meeting minutes to learn more about the discussions at Engineering and Public Works Committee.
- Finance and Corporate Services Committee - We're making it easier to host events in our communities.
- In a positive development, Muskoka District Council passed a resolution from the Committee delegating authority to staff for the provision of grants on an interim basis.
- These grants will support eligible non-profit organizations hosting community events that require traffic safety plans and road closures.
- Explore the full agenda and meeting minutes to learn more about the discussions at Finance and Corporate Services Committee.
- Health Services Committee - During a Special Committee meeting, an important item was discussed for Council's consideration.
- The meeting focused on granting the authority to enter into a long-term care (LTC) development agreement - the urgency of the matter was emphasized.
- We are actively working to address these considerations and ensure the best outcomes for our community. Stay tuned for further updates on the progress of the Fairvern Redevelopment project.
- Explore the full agenda and meeting minutes to learn more about the discussions at Health Services Committee.
- Community and Planning Services Committee - We have an exciting update regarding the Muskoka Community Land Trust (MCLT).
- After careful consideration, it has been recognized that multi-year funding is crucial for the MCLT from 2022 to 2024, as highlighted in report CPS-12-2021-4. Muskoka District Council previously approved a $55,000 grant through Resolution R45/2022-CPS to support MCLT with staffing and the development of a strategic plan.
- Building on this, it has been determined that facilitating the issuance of grants through coordinated donations from charitable organizations would greatly benefit the MCLT. A grant of $97,000 has been approved for the MCLT to further aid in staffing and the implementation of their strategic plan in 2023.
- Explore the full agenda and meeting minutes to learn more about the discussions at Community and Planning Services Committee.
- Accessibility Advisory Committee - We are thrilled to announce the establishment of the Muskoka Accessibility Advisory Committee.
- The District has made significant progress in enhancing accessibility and promoting inclusivity throughout our community.
- Explore the full agenda and meeting minutes to learn more about the discussions at Accessibility Advisory Committee.
|
Did we get it right? - Help us plan together. The District was formed in 1971 to connect Muskoka’s communities and provide services that bring more value and efficiency when they are delivered at a regional level. Our role and responsibilities have evolved over time by expanding services to meet new needs and taking on the big challenges our communities are facing – to benefit Muskoka as a whole.
A Memorable Field Trip and a Big Thank You: Your Muskoka District Council had an incredible Field Trip around our District, exploring the beautiful corners of our communities. It was an inspiring experience, made even more special by the passion and dedication shown by our amazing District staff. Their commitment to their work and serving our community is truly commendable.
- We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to each and every staff member who participated in the Field Trip. Your enthusiasm and expertise brought the journey to life, making it an unforgettable experience for all. Thank you for going above and beyond to showcase what you do.
- Your exceptional service and genuine care for our community make us proud to have you as part of our District family. Keep up the fantastic work! Together, we will continue to make Muskoka an exceptional place to live, work, and thrive.
Award Presentation - CAMA: The Muskoka Area Indigenous Leadership Table (MAILT), comprised of the District of Muskoka, six lower-tier municipalities and five Indigenous Nations, have received national recognition for their Muskoka Area Indigenous Leadership Table (MAILT) from the Canadian Association of Municipal Administrators (CAMA).
- Your Muskoka District Council was presented with the 2023 CAMA Collaboration Award by Brenda Orchard, CAO of Lennox-Addington County and CAMA Board Representative.
- Stay updated on the progress of our MAILT initiatives, there are so many ways to take part in what this important group does. Learn more at www.engagemuskoka.ca/mailt
Presentation - Simcoe-Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU): Dr. Charles Gardner, Medical Officer of Health and Scott Warnock, SMDHU Board Vice-Chair (provincial appointee) joined Muskoka District Council with an informative presentation and updates shared by the SMDHU.
- Muskoka District Council is sincerely thankful for Dr. Gardner's commitment, dedication and attention to the Muskoka community throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Stay updated on news that matters to you from official sources. Visit the SMDHU website and learn more about the topics that matter to you. Learn more at www.simcoemuskokahealth.org
Member Appointment - Gateway Homes Advisory Group: More news to ensure continued support for attainable housing initiatives in Muskoka.
- Appointment of the following members from your Muskoka District Council to the Gateway Homes Advisory Group:
- District Chair Jeff Lehman (ex-officio), Councillor E. Strength, Councillor S. Morrison, and Councillor R. Nishikawa. Together, we're making strides towards accessible housing for our community.
- Did you know the Gateway Homes Advisory Group is a locally funded down payment assistance program designed to help families and individuals with modest incomes make homeownership a reality?
- Learn more at www.muskoka.on.ca/en/housing/gateway-homeownership-program.aspx
Muskoka Road 38 - Project Update: Muskoka Road 38 is well on its way to officially being renamed.
- Now officially known as Kanien’kehá:ka Iohatátie, we are one step closer to having new signage along a major series highway.
- Your Muskoka District Council was thrilled to share that the MTO has accepted the name change and provided design concepts for two northbound and two southbound signs along Highway 400.
- Stay in the loop as this important, first of its kind in Muskoka initiative unfolds. Have you mastered the pronunciation of Kanien’kehá:ka Iohatátie yet? Discover the significant meaning behind it and why we're so proud and honoured to partner with the Wahta Mohawks First Nation. Join us to delve deeper into the reasoning and broaden your understanding in our indigenous history.
- Learn more at www.engagemuskoka.ca/road38
Yearley Road Bridge Replacement, Town of Huntsville: Muskoka District Council approved Contract 313-10-B-23 that was delivered to Engineering and Public Works Committee in May.
- The contract has been awarded to HugoMB Contracting Inc. This investment will ensure the safety, efficiency, and connectivity of our community's transportation infrastructure in Huntsville and the Yearley community.
- The Yearley Road Bridge has served us faithfully for years, but age and wear have taken their toll. By replacing the bridge, we're proactively addressing potential safety concerns, ensuring a secure passage for motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists alike.
- Construction is scheduled to start this summer. Infrastructure plays a crucial role in keeping our daily lives running smoothly. With the new bridge in place, we can count on improved reliability, reducing disruptions caused by maintenance or unexpected issues. A detour will be in effect to avoid this area while work is underway.
- Learn more at www.muskoka.on.ca/en/roads-and-transportation/road-construction-and-closures.aspx
IDEA Community Mural Update: The IDEA Advisory Group (IAG), dedicated to promoting inclusivity, diversity, and anti-racism, presented a recommendation to engage our community and make a difference.
- Building upon the approved Strategic Action Plan, the IAG identified an IDEA-themed community mural as their flagship project for 2023, aligning with their focus on IDEA in the community.
- The resolution passed, granting the IAG and District staff the authority to proceed with the selection, award, and implementation of the Community Mural project, following established processes and procedures.
- Interested in learning more about what the IAG does? Stay updated on initiatives and announcements, this group is working hard to transform our communities. We have an engagement page dedicated to IDEA initiatives.
- Learn more at www.engagemuskoka.ca/idea
By-Laws: When your Muskoka District Council adopts a resolution on a matter that requires an implementation by-law, the by-law will only be reviewed and discussed for accuracy and conformity with the resolution.
- This means that once a resolution is passed, the by-law related to it will not be debated again but will be checked to ensure it aligns with the resolution.
- 2023-31 Being a by-law to adopt an Emergency Management Program and Plan for The District Municipality of Muskoka
- 2023-33 Being a by-law to amend By-law 2018-65 (to Delegate Certain Authority)
Help us plan together - Strategic Plan: 2023-2026: We want to hear from you - did we get it right?
Help us build a new strategic plan for Muskoka together. A plan that looks at where we started, where we are today, and where we need to go next. Please take a few minutes to review the Draft Strategic Plan 2023-2026 - our Survey is open until Monday, July 3, 2023.
Take me to the Survey
|
|
.png)
