Exploring Chicago’s Council Agenda: Lightfoot’s Focus on Pickleball and Poverty Reduction

The Orillia Hall of Fame Induction

Four new individuals will be inducted into the Orillia Hall of Fame at Monday’s council meeting. The inductees, Kenneth “Ken” Woodhouse, Gordon E. “Gord” Smith, Robert “Bob” Bowles, and William “Bill” Swinimer, have all made significant achievements and garnered widespread recognition in their respective fields. To commemorate their accomplishments, a reception will be held at Orillia City Centre prior to their induction at 12:30 p.m. Members of the public are invited to attend and join in celebrating the achievements of these outstanding individuals.

The Orillia Pickleball Club Advocacy

The Orillia Pickleball Club will present a deputation to the city council, bringing forth two requests to promote the sport locally. Firstly, the club is urging the city to incorporate pickleball into the recreation master plan, recognizing its growing popularity and the desire for increased facilities. Secondly, they are seeking funds for the construction of six new pickleball courts in the city next year. By expanding access to this sport, the Orillia Pickleball Club aims to encourage physical activity, community engagement, and social interaction.

Poverty Reduction Strategy

Council will contemplate the development of a poverty reduction strategy in collaboration with Lakehead University. This strategy seeks to address the pressing issue of poverty in Orillia by assessing current policies, conducting focus groups to better understand the experience of poverty, engaging community partners to develop a long-term strategy, and identifying potential funding opportunities. The proposed partnership with Lakehead University demonstrates a commitment to evidence-based solutions and reflects a comprehensive approach to tackling poverty in the city. Council will consider allocating up to $50,000 in the 2024 budget to support the implementation of this strategy.

Reports from City Councillors

Initiatives to Enhance Public Spaces

Councillor Luke Leatherdale will present two proposals aimed at enhancing public spaces in Orillia. The first request is for council’s support to install a backless bench on the floating dock near the Orillia Waterfront Centre, providing residents and visitors with additional seating options and a vantage point to enjoy the waterfront. The second proposal seeks council’s endorsement to resurface the walking path connecting Coldwater Road West to the intersection of Park Street and Brant Street. These initiatives contribute to the improvement of recreational amenities and ensure the accessibility and attractiveness of Orillia’s public areas.

Support for Affordable Housing and Parking Rates

Councillor Jay Fallis will bring forward two reports to address key concerns within the community. The first report proposes an additional $100,000 allocation to the city’s affordable housing reserve fund, supplementing the existing annual allocation of $200,000. This investment aims to support the development of affordable housing options and alleviate the housing crisis in Orillia. The second report seeks council’s support to reduce metered parking rates on Mississaga Street East and West Street North and South from $3 to $2.25 per hour, making parking more affordable and accessible for residents and visitors.

The Lightfoot Museum Working Group

A working group was established by council in September to explore the possibility of establishing a Gordon Lightfoot Museum in the Orillia community. The group has been diligently meeting on a weekly basis, identifying potential locations for the museum, developing a marketing pitch, and engaging with the executors of the Lightfoot estate regarding the availability of Lightfoot memorabilia. However, it has been communicated by the executors that their primary focus remains the management of the late folk legend’s estate, and no decision regarding the preservation of memorabilia has been made at this time. The working group proposes submitting a further report to council once the legalities surrounding the Lightfoot estate have been resolved.

Traffic Calming Measures

The intersection of Old Barrie Road and University Avenue has experienced an alarming number of motor vehicle collisions, with 37 incidents occurring between January 2018 and January 2023. City staff have proposed several traffic calming measures to improve safety in the area. These measures include the installation of speed display signs, implementing a right-turn on red arrow for westbound vehicles onto University Avenue, and adding intersection turning lines to guide drivers while turning. By implementing these measures, it is hoped that the number of accidents will be reduced, ensuring the safety of both motorists and pedestrians.

Council Inquiries on Snow Removal

Councillor Fallis will request council’s support for a report on the feasibility of enhancing snow removal on certain streets in Orillia, namely Julia Crescent, Brant Street between Park Street and West Street, and West Street between Fittons Road and the downtown core. This inquiry seeks to address concerns surrounding snow removal in these areas and proposes solutions to improve service during extreme weather events. By undertaking this assessment, the city can ensure an efficient and effective snow removal strategy, safeguarding the well-being and accessibility of residents and businesses.

Conclusion

The upcoming council meeting in Orillia will address a range of important issues and initiatives aimed at promoting community engagement, enhancing public spaces, tackling poverty, preserving cultural heritage, improving road safety, and addressing concerns related to affordable housing and snow removal. The discussions and decisions made during this meeting will shape the future of Orillia and illustrate the commitment of local leaders to the well-being and prosperity of the city and its residents. The public is encouraged to attend the meeting and participate in the democratic process, ensuring that their voices are heard and represented in the decision-making of their community.