Fence Update

Those who have not been up to Balm Beach yet this year will remember that the fence extended across about two thirds of the beach to the water and the remaining gap was filled with numerous pieces of furniture which impeded but did not totally block passage.

 

This year things have changed.  In the fall the fence was extended by another four sections which significantly narrowed the distance to the water.  This spring, the boat rack was relocated to fill the remaining gap to the water so now passage is virtually impossible without getting your feet wet.  As this entry is being written, the wave wash is hitting the last post of the fence and the boat rack is completely awash.

 

This unfortunate development underscores the need to seek all legal remedies to have the fence removed and restore historical access and use of all the beach.

Blog Reopening

This blog has been silent for the past few months because many of our members have been away or otherwise engaged.  But summer is coming and the fence is still an issue here Balm Beach.   We will restart our use of the blog to keep you up to date on matters pertaining to the fence and general beach access and use in our community.

 

Please stay tuned.

Just Another Balm Beach Sunrise

 

Unbelievable!

Notwithstanding that the whole issue of fences was raised for discussion because of the erection of the fence at Balm Beach; and

notwithstanding that a consultant was hired as a result of early discussions; and

notwithstanding that the consultant recommended that regulations be put in place regarding fences on the beach; and

notwithstanding that four of the five council members stated during the election campaign that they were against fences on the beach; and

notwithstanding that many objections to fencing on the beach were raised at the August public meeting; and

notwithstanding that PUBB and many others have requested that fences not be permitted on the beach; and

notwithstanding that fences on the beach are contrary to the goals and objectives of the Official Plan; and

notwithstanding that the Official Plan does not include boundary fences as permitted structures on the beach,

 

on Tuesday, council discussed the proposed amendments to the Zoning Bylaw regarding fences and although fences on the beach were discussed, in the end, nothing about the beach was included in the accepted recommendations.  Further discussion was deferred until the Official Plan review sometime next year.  Council found it too hard to come up with wording of a bylaw and now it seems that they are hoping that the new Official Plan will not require a bylaw to deal with this.

 

UNBELIEVABLE!!

 

We still have much work to do.

 

Georgian Bay, Just another sunset

Had Too, Just Had Too

Jill & Roger, "K" & Jack

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Provincial Election Update

The following are the responses to PUBB's questions from the Liberal Candidate Laura Domsy.

 

 

Thank you for your questions and thank you for meeting with me.

 

Your question #1 is: "What is your position on keeping Tiny's beaches open for public access and use?

 

I am in favour of keeping our beaches public. One of the major attractions to our lovely area is our natural resources. I realize the beaches economic importance and the importance to our lifestyle in Simcoe North. If elected I will work diligently to set up a meeting with your group and the Attorney General. Beyond that I would be interested in meeting with your group again and gaining more facts. At that point I would consider bringing forward a private member’s bill that would raise the important issue of public access to our beaches. Unlike my Conservative opponent who feels that politicizing this and other issues, I feel that we should work constructively together to get a resolution. I will make sure your voice is heard no matter, which party, forms the government.

 

Your question #2 is: "Would you support the Great Lakes Shoreline Right of Passage Act if it is re-introduced in the next legislature"?

 

I agree with the Great Lakes Shoreline Right of Passage Act in principle. As I mentioned to you, I spoke with Mr. Craitor’s office and he intends to bring this Act forward again when the legislature resumes. My only concern with the bill is the lack of details pertaining to compensation for private property expropriation. If expropriation of private property occurs than I think it is important for the government to fairly compensate the property owner. I understand that this bill as it is written now is not exactly what you are looking for but I feel this is a good first step in the right direction. Anytime there is an opportunity for me to include you in consultations regarding this and other bills of the same topic I’ll seek your input. I feel that this is the representation that we need at Queen’s Park.

 

Thanks, Laura Domsy

Provincial Election Update

Candidates Meetings

 

PUBB met with the Liberal Party Candidate - Laura Domsy - for a couple of hours on Thursday evening.  We had a chance to outline our problems and concerns regarding fences on the beach and what role we feel the provincial government should play in resolving the issue.  Ms. Domsy did not take any position on the issue but did listen carfully.

 

A meeting has been set up with Garfield Dunlop on the morning of Oct 6. 

 

 

Responses to Questions

 

The following is a response to PUBB's questions from Garfield Dunlop.  Written responses have not yet been received from the other candidates.  These will be posted if and when received.

 

Thank you for your questions regarding the use of public beaches.

Your question #1 is: "What is your position on keeping Tiny's beaches open for public access and use?

My answer: I am in favour. That is precisely why I encouraged former PC Attorney General Jim Flaherty to appoint a mediation company, Global Resolutions, to work with all stakeholders to seek a fair and responsible solution to the public access and use issue. I knew it would be a difficult task and would take years to complete. Since the Liberal Attorney General pulled the plug on the process, nothing has been done.

Your question #2 is: "Would you support the Great Lakes Shoreline Right of Passage Act if it is re-introduced in the next legislature".

My answer: As you are aware, the Great Lakes Shoreline Right of Passage Act received only first reading in the legislature last year. Because Dalton McGuinty adjourned the legislature a full four weeks ahead fo the parliamentary calendar because of the controversy surrounding his Slushgate Minister Mike Calle. Mr Calle was to appear before the Standing Committee on Estimates when McGuinty adjourned the house. Over 100 Private Member's Bills, such as the Great Lakes Shoreline Right of Passage Act died on the order paper.

In the current form presented by Mr. Craitor, I find that the Act is very vague and it certainly does not consider issues around private properties such as compensation, liabilities and destruction due to vandalism of public and private property. I look forward to the Bill being re-introduced and would look forward to Standing Committee hearings being held even in communities like Wasaga Beach and Midland and Penetanguishene.

Obviously we would want 'full' public input and be open to amendments.

Whoever wins this election, it would be very positive to see the issue resolved in a fair and responsible manner that respects the rights of property owners while at the same time allowing access to the beautiful beaches of our Great Lakes.

Sincerely,

Garfield Dunlop