Needless to say, I don't think the polls respondents are in any hurry to forsake criticizing Council to take up Councillor Brister's advice.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Shadow Poll #14 - Results
It was a close race, but I guess Councillor Brister just doesn't measure up to Councillor Lewenza when it comes to the public's disdain of their statements.
Needless to say, I don't think the polls respondents are in any hurry to forsake criticizing Council to take up Councillor Brister's advice.
Needless to say, I don't think the polls respondents are in any hurry to forsake criticizing Council to take up Councillor Brister's advice.
Monday, September 10, 2007
Roseland
The latest minutes from the Roseland Board of Directors are included in this week's Communications.
Five City Councillors, the City Treasurer and City Solicitor. I wonder if any of these people have anything better to do than run/oversee the running of a business.
Lots of interesting talk about competing with other courses, the economy of Windsor affecting revenues, marketing and promotional campaigns - nothing about sewers or water pipes though.
I'm glad that someone else bought Bowlero and Roseland Bowl. On the other hand, shouldn't bowlers get the same level of support from the City of Windsor as golfers, curlers and boaters?
Why the discrimination against them?
Five City Councillors, the City Treasurer and City Solicitor. I wonder if any of these people have anything better to do than run/oversee the running of a business.
Lots of interesting talk about competing with other courses, the economy of Windsor affecting revenues, marketing and promotional campaigns - nothing about sewers or water pipes though.
I'm glad that someone else bought Bowlero and Roseland Bowl. On the other hand, shouldn't bowlers get the same level of support from the City of Windsor as golfers, curlers and boaters?
Why the discrimination against them?
One day left
On the first day of the Provincial Election, don't forget about the "other poll". Councillor Lewenza is stil holding down the lead for most votes at this point.
Poll is located on the right sidebar.
Poll is located on the right sidebar.
Friday, September 07, 2007
# 3 on this list
New Status Report on Hazardous Waste in Ontario
Ottawa, Windsor, Burlington top 3 hazardous waste districts
Title: Hazardous Waste in Ontario: Progress and Challenges
Author: Maureen Carter-Whitney
Date: September 2007
ISBN#: 978-1-896588-60-5
Keywords: Hazardous Waste Management, Land Disposal Restriction Regulation, pollution prevention
Description: Since CIELAP issued its Open for Toxics reports in 2000 and in 2003, the provincial government has made significant progress to address hazardous waste in Ontario. There remain, however, a number of regulatory gaps and many areas for improvement. This paper reports on the progress made and and offers recommendations for future improvement in this area.
The Canadian Institute for Environmental Law and Policy (CIELAP)
is an independent, not-for-profit research and education organization whose mission is to provide leadership in the research and development of environmental law and policy that promotes the public interest and sustainability.
Ottawa, Windsor, Burlington top 3 hazardous waste districts
Title: Hazardous Waste in Ontario: Progress and Challenges
Author: Maureen Carter-Whitney
Date: September 2007
ISBN#: 978-1-896588-60-5
Keywords: Hazardous Waste Management, Land Disposal Restriction Regulation, pollution prevention
Description: Since CIELAP issued its Open for Toxics reports in 2000 and in 2003, the provincial government has made significant progress to address hazardous waste in Ontario. There remain, however, a number of regulatory gaps and many areas for improvement. This paper reports on the progress made and and offers recommendations for future improvement in this area.
The Canadian Institute for Environmental Law and Policy (CIELAP)
is an independent, not-for-profit research and education organization whose mission is to provide leadership in the research and development of environmental law and policy that promotes the public interest and sustainability.
Windsor #1 in the country
In the latest Unemployment Report from Statistics Canada:
The Canadian Press has compiled a list of the August unemployment rates in select cities. The July figure is in brackets:
- St. John's, N.L. 6.3 (6.5)
- Halifax 6.2 (6.0)
- Saint John, N.B. 4.3 (4.8)
- Saguenay, Que. 8.2 (8.5)
- Quebec 4.5 (4.7)
- Trois-Rivieres, Que. 8.0 (7.4)
- Sherbrooke, Que. 5.7 (5.6)
- Montreal 7.0 (6.7)
- Gatineau, Que. 5.5 (5.6)
- Ottawa 5.3 (5.4)
- Kingston, Ont. 6.6 (6.2)
- Toronto 7.0 (7.0)
- Hamilton 5.5 (5.9)
- Kitchener, Ont. 5.6 (5.6)
- London, Ont. 6.2 (6.1)
- Oshawa, Ont. 6.6 (6.0)
- St. Catharines-Niagara, Ont. 7.7 (6.7)
- Sudbury, Ont. 6.3 (6.3)
- Thunder Bay, Ont. 6.6 (6.8)
- Windsor, Ont. 9.9 (9.3)
- Winnipeg 4.2 (4.6)
- Regina 6.1 (6.1)
- Saskatoon 4.8 (4.6)
- Calgary 3.3 (3.4)
- Edmonton 3.9 (4.0)
- Abbotsford, B.C. 4.5 (4.1)
- Vancouver 3.8 (4.0)
- Victoria 3.6 (3.4)
How'd They Vote?
I've started a new project to record how Windsor City Councillors vote on various items before them. I'll be using the Council Minutes to populate the sheet with data.
I've started from the first post-election meeting and will carry on until the last meeting before the next election.
You can view the sheet at Google Docs and Spreadsheets. The document is open for public viewing. If anyone wishes to help out with the project, send me an email and I'll add you as a collaborator so you can edit the sheet.
You can also subscribe to an RSS feed of the project if you wish to stay up-to-date.
I've started from the first post-election meeting and will carry on until the last meeting before the next election.
You can view the sheet at Google Docs and Spreadsheets. The document is open for public viewing. If anyone wishes to help out with the project, send me an email and I'll add you as a collaborator so you can edit the sheet.
You can also subscribe to an RSS feed of the project if you wish to stay up-to-date.
City Landmarks
Toronto has the CN Tower, Detroit has the RenCen, Windsor has...
The "Engineered Slope" or as it's commonly called "The Hole That Can't Be Filled"
I'm starting to wonder which is going to happen first - the Leafs winning a Stanley Cup or the "The Hole That Can't Be Filled" defying all odds and actually getting filled.
Long odds on either option.
The "Engineered Slope" or as it's commonly called "The Hole That Can't Be Filled"
I'm starting to wonder which is going to happen first - the Leafs winning a Stanley Cup or the "The Hole That Can't Be Filled" defying all odds and actually getting filled.
Long odds on either option.
Thursday, September 06, 2007
Some days...
... I just shake my head. I'm truly starting to appreciate many in the MSM. The difference between what you hear, what you know and what you can prove or substantiate is often a wide gulf. The difference in Windsor these days it that the gulf is starting to narrow to a stream. Given enough time, it'll be nothing more than a creek to leap over. Keep on.
Wednesday, September 05, 2007
Did you know...
that AM800 posts their daily commentary online?
I used a combination of Ponyfish.com and Feedburner.com to create a podcast feed.
Widgets are another great tool for bloggers -
I used a combination of Ponyfish.com and Feedburner.com to create a podcast feed.
Widgets are another great tool for bloggers -
Secrecy is contagious
I noticed this item on MUNIBlogs.com this morning:
The Cult of Secrecy flexed its muscle last night at Council. I was denied access to what should be public information - the legal...The battle for open transparent Councils rages on throughout Ontario.
Complete Post at: The Mumpsimus Blog
Sign of the future?
Hopefully.This month's issue of BIZ X magazine has an item in the "Heard on the Street" column about Roseland Golf Course.
Seems like the latest hospitality operator Lewisfoods Inc. is bailing on it's contract after less than two years. Michigan Tavern and Aramark Foods were the two previous operators.
The article also reveals Roseland's annual contribution of $300,000 to the City is dropping to $150,000 due to flat revenues and the need for upgrades.
I hear thing are booming over at the Ambassador Golf Club. Wonder why?
If we can't run a water utility, why do we pretend to be able to run a golf course? That reminds me - anyone hear how all that ROOTs brand Windsor gear is selling? How about how many Grand Prix tickets we sold at City
I've got a friend with Mini-Putt course in Sault St. Marie that wants to retire. I told him to send a proposal to the City of Windsor, they'll buy almost anything. (if you hear about a new Mini-Putt opening in Windsor in the next year, remember, you heard it here first!)
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
Downtown
Closing Ouellette on weekends just gained some steam. More here.
I'm sure the DWBIA and it's members will embrace this. The key will be not killing a good idea with 22 pages of rules, regulations and fees. The devil's in the details, as they say.
I'm sure the DWBIA and it's members will embrace this. The key will be not killing a good idea with 22 pages of rules, regulations and fees. The devil's in the details, as they say.
Shadow Poll #13 - Results
Somehow it's appropriate that Councillor Lewenza was the subject of Poll #13.
New poll posted in the right sidebar.
Dream the impossible dream.
I saved this one for after the holiday Monday:
Wow, a City Council that actually votes independently.
Windsorites could only dream of such a occurrence.
Maybe the Mayor of Ottawa should take a few cues from our own Mayor. Give up your chair now and again to speak from the floor, heck, even move a motion or two from the Chair. Works wonders, I hear.
For some of our Councillors, maybe this will help.
Wow, a City Council that actually votes independently.
Windsorites could only dream of such a occurrence.
Maybe the Mayor of Ottawa should take a few cues from our own Mayor. Give up your chair now and again to speak from the floor, heck, even move a motion or two from the Chair. Works wonders, I hear.
For some of our Councillors, maybe this will help.
Around Town Tuesday
Boys & Girls Club of windsor and Essex County, Riverfront Theatre Company, registration for its upcoming 4th Season, September 8th, - Children's Aid Society, Riverside Drive
Free drama program, Sept. to April with two full staged productions.
Windsor International Film Festival Facebook group - 17 members - let's see if it can't hit 25 this week. Invite your Facebook friends.
Your City Council - saving money with one hand, spending with the other.
Some light reading for your pleasure - especially if you missed last week's Council meeting.
Rumour has it that Windsor may be getting ready to pony up $80,000 USD per year for five years toward future Grand Prix weekends. "Speak now or forever hold your peace", although I suspect if we're hearing the rumours, the consummation has already taken place.
Citizens Environment Alliance (CEA) is screening "Total Denial" Sunday September 16th, 7:30 pm. You can RSVP here.
Heart Defect Society of Windsor and Essex County - First Annual Walk'n Roll 2007
Looking for Sponsors, Walkers/Rollers and Volunteers - email Francine
Looking for something to do this fall to get yourself out of the house? Try REConnect!
First day back to school - drive safe!
Free drama program, Sept. to April with two full staged productions.
Windsor International Film Festival Facebook group - 17 members - let's see if it can't hit 25 this week. Invite your Facebook friends.
Your City Council - saving money with one hand, spending with the other.
Some light reading for your pleasure - especially if you missed last week's Council meeting.
Rumour has it that Windsor may be getting ready to pony up $80,000 USD per year for five years toward future Grand Prix weekends. "Speak now or forever hold your peace", although I suspect if we're hearing the rumours, the consummation has already taken place.
Citizens Environment Alliance (CEA) is screening "Total Denial" Sunday September 16th, 7:30 pm. You can RSVP here.
Heart Defect Society of Windsor and Essex County - First Annual Walk'n Roll 2007
Looking for Sponsors, Walkers/Rollers and Volunteers - email Francine
Looking for something to do this fall to get yourself out of the house? Try REConnect!
First day back to school - drive safe!
Monday, September 03, 2007
Quick Hits - Monday August 3rd
I say all of the above.
Did everyone enjoy their $80,000 USD worth of Grand Prix partying this weekend? I know I was disappointed not to be invited for the lamb chops and oyster shooters. Sounds like typical City Hall fare.
I've heard that all the former 211 workers have now been let go and City 211 training starts next week. Are we going to see an operating agreement any time soon or, like most other things, is it destined for the in-camera agenda? With only 3 part time people to staff this line, how long before postions are added and costs rise? My guess - next budget will see a "demonstrated need based on call volume" to add 4 full time positions to the "combined" call centre.
Enjoy the last of the long weekend. Back to the grind tomorow.
Did everyone enjoy their $80,000 USD worth of Grand Prix partying this weekend? I know I was disappointed not to be invited for the lamb chops and oyster shooters. Sounds like typical City Hall fare.
I've heard that all the former 211 workers have now been let go and City 211 training starts next week. Are we going to see an operating agreement any time soon or, like most other things, is it destined for the in-camera agenda? With only 3 part time people to staff this line, how long before postions are added and costs rise? My guess - next budget will see a "demonstrated need based on call volume" to add 4 full time positions to the "combined" call centre.
Enjoy the last of the long weekend. Back to the grind tomorow.
Sunday, September 02, 2007
That's one way to save money
Cut down on delegations to Council.
Now I understand the Mayor and Council's reluctance to have the public speak on the WUC issue.
It's really only about saving money.
(From the 2nd Quarter Variance Report)
2007 Ward Fund Lottery Numbers Announced
This years Prize pool an estimated $380,000.00*
If you haven't heard of the Ward Fund Lottery, you can catch up here.
Hurry up if you haven't already obtained your tickets - $40,000 in prizes have already been awarded!
Ward 1 Tickets
Ward 2 Tickets
Ward 3 Tickets
Ward 4 Tickets
Ward 5 Tickets
* Actual prize pool could be drastically lower due to the necessity to carry over significant enough funds for the 2010 Election Year.
I am curious about one thing though. The previous report submitted on the public agenda listed a year end surplus of $92,359.00 but this variance report now says that the carryover from last year is actually $245,000.00 - a difference of $152,641.00 . Some unknown Ward is sitting on a substantial nest egg.
(From the 2nd Quarter Variance Report)
Saturday, September 01, 2007
The power of the printed word
Isn't it amazing what fear and loathing a simple blog can create. Perish the thought that a Councillor would actually articulate positons (third point from the bottom is probably a good example in this situation), stick to them and reach out to his constitutents in the process.
While the Mayor struggles to put out a "21st century fireside chat email" without his $250,000.00 communications department, Alan has persevered in the face of withering criticism from his "colleagues". Agree or disagree with his politics or opinions, he has put himself out there for all to see and comment on.
For the sin of trying to achieve open, accountable and participatory government he gets to open Saturday's newspaper and read Councillor Lewenza holding court on his behaviour. That's about as rich as it gets. Councillor Postma is certainly one to be throwing stones. We all enjoyed reading during the last election how she "spearheaded" things like the City's debt reduction program and anti-graffiti campaign. Dramatic license knows no bounds sometimes.
This blog doffs it's cap to Ward 3 Councillor Alan Halberstadt for the courage of his convictions and the tenacity with which he approaches his elected responsibility.
You'll have to excuse me now. I've reached my blogging limit and apparently need to go seek a charity to work for.
While I'm out - Sign the Petition!
PS. - thoroughly enjoyed today's Windsor Star editorial. What a delicious counter-point to the whine and cheese party on the news pages. Gord, on the other hand, must not have heard he's already won the cheerleading championship.
While the Mayor struggles to put out a "21st century fireside chat email" without his $250,000.00 communications department, Alan has persevered in the face of withering criticism from his "colleagues". Agree or disagree with his politics or opinions, he has put himself out there for all to see and comment on.
For the sin of trying to achieve open, accountable and participatory government he gets to open Saturday's newspaper and read Councillor Lewenza holding court on his behaviour. That's about as rich as it gets. Councillor Postma is certainly one to be throwing stones. We all enjoyed reading during the last election how she "spearheaded" things like the City's debt reduction program and anti-graffiti campaign. Dramatic license knows no bounds sometimes.
This blog doffs it's cap to Ward 3 Councillor Alan Halberstadt for the courage of his convictions and the tenacity with which he approaches his elected responsibility.
You'll have to excuse me now. I've reached my blogging limit and apparently need to go seek a charity to work for.
While I'm out - Sign the Petition!
PS. - thoroughly enjoyed today's Windsor Star editorial. What a delicious counter-point to the whine and cheese party on the news pages. Gord, on the other hand, must not have heard he's already won the cheerleading championship.
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