Waste Management:
     The city has worked hard to establish policies for garbage removal and recycling and we support your efforts, but clearly more needs to be done.
     A number of years ago, when the Genoe landfill site was nearing capacity, the preferred option was to ship the garbage to Michigan- why not, Toronto was doing it!  Again too much time passed and was this our only option???  Now we are faced with the loss of our dump site in one year and now what! (could you explain our options?)  Council has certainly not been very forthcoming with information related to the future disposal issue and possible costs.  Options such as incineration seem to be discounted as they are not yet approved by higher levels of government.
     During budget proceedings the City decided to move to every second week garbage collection and as a result we (taxpayers) would save approximately $150,000 annually.  When the question was asked about the true savings, it was admitted that indeed the staff had simply been redeployed and the money moved to another area of the budget.

With respect to Waste Management:
1.  What options is the City considering after access to Michigan is eliminated?
2.  What costs are predicted under your proposed solution?
3.  What long term solution to waste management does the City envision?
4.  What role does the county have in waste management?

 Business Licensing
     The Owen Sound and District Chamber of Commerce has over 500 members many of which run their business from Owen Sound.  Business licensing in Owen Sound should be changed to provide incentive to entrepreneurs and not be considered another cash windfall.  Certainly Council does not need to waste precious meeting time by approving these licenses that could be administered by staff.  Also, it is clear that enforcement is very sporadic and the fee of $125.00 a deterrent to small business startups.

With respect to Business Licensing:
1.  Why do we require a fee when new business is providing jobs, taxes and spending to our economy?
2.  Why does a business that changes ownership but does not change business type require a new license?3.  When will you eliminate the required fee for Business Licensing?
4.  Do "Not for Profit" entities require Business Licenses?

     We believe that now is the time for our City and Region to become a leader and not a follower!  Through cooperation and commitment, this will ensure our region is a dynamic area that can attract business and industry.  City hall should not be a place that is feared in our community but rather a place where business, industry and citizens walk with confidence knowing the City is there to work for us and encourage our success.

     We will provide space for your reply in the next addition of Make it Your Business.