By Jim Whelan, North Kawartha ReeveThis has been a busy period for North Kawartha Township, with the startup of waste and recycle pickup, finalizing the Health Centre plan, and implementing the Fire Hall location study.
Since pickup of household waste and recycle began in early July, we have steadily increased the volume of material being collected, as residents have become more familiar with the schedule and pickup locations. In the month of July a total of 24.34 metric tones of household waste have been diverted from our landfills to the County site on Bensfort Road. Recycle volumes are also increasing, from the County road pickup locations.
During the first two weeks, Township staff handled calls from residents clarifying the schedule, and identifying areas which needed additional service. Calls for information are now being re-directed to the County for recycle questions 705-743-0380 Ext. 402 and to Capital Waste Management for waste questions 705-742-4268 or 1-800-578-6810. Residents are requested to leave schedule and pickup location information for any visitors or renters at their residences.
The Health Task Force has finalized the design for the North Kawartha Health Centre, incorporating input from the May 29th public meeting and subsequent input at Task Force meetings. It was decided to incorporate a basement in the new addition, thus providing more space for clinical facilities as well as flexibility for future needs. We have proceeded to the next stage and will be tendering for general contractors to handle construction.
Recently we were informed that North Kawartha has been approved for a Nurse-Practitioner to be located in our Health Centre, and this will likely be implemented during the fall of this year. Initially, it is expected that this person will be available for two days per week, and can be accommodated within our existing facilities. The new design provides facilities for additional professionals, including a Nurse-Practitioner.
Fund-raising for the Health Centre
addition has been very gratifying. Total commitments now exceed $85,000,
with several large donations from the Lions Club, Rosalie McColl, Ambrose
Moran, and the Paudash Trail Blazers. We have also received many contributions
from a large number of residents within the Township. Fund-raising
Chair Cal Taillefer has an extensive plan to broaden the appeal to the throughout
the Township and to interested groups in the surrounding area.
The Fire Department has proceeded to implement the recommendations from the Fire Station relocation study which was presented at the May 29th public meeting. The Balmer Road station has been closed, and local residents have recommended that the building be used by the Fire Department in whatever capacity is best. It is possible that it could be used as an additional bay at the Apsley station. Also, the County Road 504 station has been converted into a training facility, and its role as a Fire Station has terminated. Finally, the new Glen Alda Fire Station has opened, and the equipment and firefighters were transferred there during July.
The Fire Department has proceeded to implement the recommendations from the Fire Station relocation study which was presented at the May 29th public meeting. The Balmer Road station has been closed, and local residents have recommended that the building be used by the Fire Department in whatever capacity is best. It is possible that it could be used as an additional bay at the Apsley station. Also, the County Road 504 station has been converted into a training facility, and its role as a Fire Station has terminated. Finally, the new Glen Alda Fire Station has opened, and the equipment and firefighters were transferred there during July.
Firefighters from the 504 and Balmer stations have been re-assigned to other firehalls. Although some resignations have been received, resources remain well above requirements for our Department's three Fire Stations. Throughout this period, fire protection and public safety for North Kawartha residents remains top priority.
The Fire Marshall's Office reviewed our status, human resources plans, and equipment maintenance records, and concurred that our capabilities were in full compliance with requirements. As part of the startup of the new Glen Alda Station, the Department of Labour participated in a full review there, and concurred with the occupation and operation of the building. Council has full confidence in Chief Buck Robertson and his Department, and recognizes the continuing strong performance and high morale of the whole department.