Listening to you

DAN CEARNS The Standard

We may not always like the work our politicians are doing on our behalf. We may not always agree with the stances or opinions our representatives have or bring to the table. Still, one thing has become clear recently, Scugog Council is listening to its residents.

I’ll start with the most recent example. Late last month, the Township voted to not support a Minister’s Zoning Order for a proposed development, by Avenu Development, near Castle Harbour Drive. This development had been highly opposed by many residents and community members. Through the title ‘Save Port Perry Wetlands,’ many Facebook posts were made, letters were sent to The Standard, and many signs were posted on local lawns. Those opposed to the development included, Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation Chief, Kelly LaRocca. Through the provincial ministry of municipal affairs and housing, an MZO could be issued to override certain planning procedures, in order to move a development closer. This council could have easily told residents it was a provincial issue, or, the provincial minister would hold all the cards, in this case. Instead, they took the path of denying support for an MZO and gave residents the victory they were looking for.

This isn’t the first time I’ve seen this kind of move by this term of Scugog Council. In June, the local Council decided to give letters of non-concurrence for multiple telecommunication tower projects, after several residents spoke out against them. These projects were located at 225 Platten Boulevard, 23400 Simcoe Street, and 19500 Highway 12, and were owned by Shared Tower Inc. This was another case, where, the Township could have simply rubber stamped a letter in support of these projects, and told residents, the federal government is the telecommunication authority and municipalities have very little power in these cases. Instead, they took the far riskier path of sending this non-concurrence letter. When that letter is issued, companies can either withdraw their applications or ask Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) to intervene.

This is a Council which offers residents chances to be part of their future, with things like budget surveys, public meetings and, as noted in the above cases, chances to have their voices heard in delegations.

Not every decision this municipal council makes is going to be popular. However, what is clear right now is, Scugog council is listening to those it represents.