Gravenhurst CAO Scott Lucas gave a quarterly report to council at the May 20 Committee of the Whole meeting, to update the community on the many projects that Town staff are currently working on.
Meeting webcasts
Council intends to continue webcasting meetings on YouTube once they return in-person, they recognize that many community members have grown accustomed to having them available virtually. Town staff are in the procurement process for installing webcasting systems in the council chambers.
Recruitment
Town staff are currently at various stages of recruitment for many positions, including summer students, volunteer firefighters, municipal operators, public works and in infrastructure services. Lucas said like most of the province, staffing and recruitment has been a challenge.
Wharf revitalization
The wharf revitalization plan is being rolled out this summer, which includes landscaping and a pop-up village. Staff have been collaborating with the OPP regarding their presence at the Wharf’s marina.
Recreation guide
A new format for the recreation and activities guide is being launched, based on the “evolving nature of what we can offer,” said Lucas. The guide will not be like the previous booklet and will be primarily online. The YMCA is open for most programs now.
Rise in vandalism
Operations staff have been dealing with an increase of vandalism and graffiti that “certainly takes our staff away from doing more productive work, but it is something that needs to be managed and responded to.”
Capital projects
Lucas ran down some of the work initiatives that are underway or commencing soon. Parks washrooms are open, prep for the community gardens has started and gravel road grating and urban street sweeping has begun. Urban line-painting will begin June 7. Talks with the Elexion Group are ongoing to put electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in at the Wharf. The aerial truck is in town and will be in service in early June.
The next meeting is on June 21 at 3p.m. and can be viewed on the Town of Gravenhurst YouTube channel.
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