Resolution Addresses Affordable Energy:
Council passed a motion in an effort to protect natural gas consumers of eastern Ontario from possible supply shortages and price increases as a result of the Energy East pipeline project, which proposes converting some of the pipeline running from North Bay to Ottawa from natural gas to oil. The county has been working with the natural gas industry to help facilitate the expansion of distribution in this area, and CAO Kurt Greaves reported there is concern the pipeline conversion will cause a natural gas supply shortage at peak demand times, which could affect consumers in eastern Ontario. Mr. Greaves explained getting supply from alternate sources may require additional infrastructure, which consumers may have to fund. Concern has been raised by gas distribution companies in Ontario and Quebec that while supplies of natural gas are plentiful, the available pipeline space to ship it to communities when they need it most could be greatly reduced if the proposal proceeds. “Natural gas is important to the economic viability of Lanark County,” Mr. Greaves said. “Any reduction to its supply will have negative effects on our region.” The motion notes affordable energy is a critical piece of Ontario’s economic development and that affordable energy assists in attracting new industry and jobs to local municipalities, as well as benefitting residents, seniors and those on fixed incomes. It urges Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne to ensure the Energy East project preserves the current natural gas capacity of the pipeline system serving Ontario and that any proposal to alter the existing natural gas infrastructure be fully paid for by users of the oil pipeline with no additional costs to natural gas consumers. The resolution is being circulated to the National Energy Board, local MPs, MPPs, Lanark County municipalities and the Eastern Ontario Warden’s Caucus. For more information, contact Kurt Greaves, CAO, at 1-888-9-LANARK, ext. 1101.
Truck Rodeo Slated for April 22:
The annual Lanark County Truck Rodeo will be hosted by the public works department during the morning of April 22 starting at 8 a.m. at the Beckwith Recreation Complex, 1319 9th Line Beckwith. The event is open to all DZ equipment operators who are employed by Lanark County municipalities and consists of two scored elements: a pre-start circle check and a practical tandem truck driving course. Roadeo officials include county public works staff, local municipal staff, suppliers and other members of the Lanark County Road Supervisors Association. This year the event includes a supplier trade show, equipment display and a booth featuring personal protective equipment. The first- and second-place winners have the chance to compete in the Association of Ontario Road Supervisors Provincial Safety Truck Roadeo in September, which began in 1994 and awards the top three drivers with trophies, plaques and cash prizes. Prizes for the local roadeo are donated by supplier members of the LCRSA. “The Truck Rodeo provides a good opportunity for public works equipment operators to test their skills and abilities in a friendly and competitive environment,” explained Janet Tysick, business manager. The event is open to the public. Attendees are asked to wear safety footwear. For more information, contact Janet Tysick, Public Works Business Manager, at 1-888-9-LANARK, ext. 3110.
Upcoming Meetings:
County Council, Wednesday, April 22, 5 p.m.; Economic Development, April 22 (following County Council); Public Works, April 22 (following Economic Development). County Council, Wednesday, May 13, 5 p.m.; Community Services, May 13 (following County Council); Corporate Services, May 13 (following Community Services). For more information, contact 1-888-9-LANARK, ext. 1502. Like “LanarkCounty1” on Facebook and follow “@LanarkCounty1” on Twitter!
