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Monday, August 25, 2008

Swap Day September 27 2008

SWAP DAY
SEPTEMBER 27, 2008

AFTER 6 PM ON FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 26, 2008, PLACE
UNWANTED BUT STILL USABLE ITEMS AT THE CURB
FOR PICK UP

Swap Day is a fun, environmental program which allows people to recycle
unwanted items.

Place unwanted items such as furniture, books, tools, sporting goods, toys,
etc at the end of your driveway or the edge of your lawn. Tie a white plastic
bag to one or more of the items to indicate that the items are meant for Swap
Day.

The Town of South Bruce Peninsula does not assume liability for items
which are lost, removed or damaged during Swap Day. Please do not pick up
any items unless you are certain that they have been placed for pick up.

Remove leftover items from your driveway or lawn by 6:00 pm on
September 27, 2008. There will be NO special municipal pick up of any
items.

For more information, contact Public Works at 519-534-1400.

Sunday, August 24, 2008

Public notice - Consideration of Property Standard

PUBLIC NOTICE RE CONSIDERATION OF
PROPERTY STANDARDS BY-LAW

Take notice that the Council of the Corporation of the Town of South Bruce Peninsula
will be considering a by-law to prescribe the standards for the maintenance and
occupancy of property within the Town of South Bruce Peninsula.

Consideration of first and second reading of the by-law will take place at the September
2nd Council meeting with possible final consideration at the September 15th Council
meeting to be held at 315 George Street Wiarton.

For further information contact: Rhonda Cook, Clerk
Town of South Bruce Peninsula
(519) 534-1400 ext. 121
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF SOUTH BRUCE PENINSULA

BY-LAW NUMBER
A By-law to prescribe the standards for the maintenance and occupancy of
property within the Town of South Bruce Peninsula


WHEREAS under Section 15.1 (3) of the Building Code Act, S.O. 1992, c.23, a by-law may be
passed by the Council of a Municipality prescribing the standards for the maintenance and occupancy
of property within the Municipality provided the official plan for the Municipality includes provision
relating to property conditions;

AND WHEREAS the Official Plan for The Town of South Bruce Peninsula includes provisions
relating to property conditions;

AND WHEREAS the Council of The Town of South Bruce Peninsula is desirous of passing a by-
law under Section 15.1 (3) of the Building Code Act, S.O. 1992, c.23;

AND WHEREAS Section 15.6 (1) of the Building Code Act, S.O. 1992, c.23 requires that a by-law
passed under Section 15.1 (3) of the Building Code Act, S.O. 1992, c. 23 shall provide for the
establishment of a Property Standards Committee;

AND WHEREAS the Council of the Corporation of the Town of South Bruce Peninsula deems it
desirable to regulate and govern the maintenance of land and buildings in order to enhance the
quality of communities and/or neighbourhoods, to protect the safety, health and well-being of the
public and to ensure the continued enjoyment of property for residents and property owners of the
Municipality.

NOW THEREFORE the Council of The Town of South Bruce Peninsula hereby enacts the
following:

1. That the attached regulations form part of this by-law.

2. Every person who contravenes the provisions of this By-law is guilty of an offence
and upon conviction therefore is liable to a penalty as provided for in Sec 61 of the
Provincial Offences Act as amended from time to time.

3. If, for any reason, any section, clause or provision of this By-law is declared by a
Court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, the same shall not affect the validity of
this By-law as a whole or any part thereof, other than the part which was declared to
be invalid.

4. Any By-law inconsistent with this by-law is hereby rescinded

5. This By-law shall come into full force and effect upon the final passing thereof.
READ a FIRST and SECOND time this 12 th day of MARCH, 2001.

MOVED BY

MAYOR

SECONDED BY
CLERK

READ a THIRD time and FINALLY PASSED this 12 th day of MARCH, 2001.

MOVED BY

MAYOR

SECONDED BY
CLERK
PART I

DEFINITIONS

In this by-law:

1.01 "Accessory Building" means a detached building located on the same lot as an existing
building, the use of which is incidental or secondary to that of the main building and which is
not used for human habitation and includes a private garage or implement shed.

1.02 "Apartment Building" means a single building comprised of three or more dwelling units
with shared entrance facilities, where none of the dwelling units are rented or are available
for rent or occupation for periods of less than 30 days.

1.03 "Approved" means acceptance by the Property Standards Officer.

1.04 "Basement" means one or more storeys of a building located below the first storey.

1.05 "Crawl space" means a space beneath a floor with clearance of less than those required for
basements or cellars.

1.06 "Dwelling" means a building or structure or part of a building or structure, occupied or
capable of being occupied, in whole or in part for the purpose of human habitation.

1.07 "Dwelling Unit" means a suite operated as a housekeeping unit, used or intended to be used
as a domicile by one or more persons and usually containing cooking, eating, living, sleeping
and sanitary facilities.

1.08 "First Storey" means the storey that has its floor closest to grade and its ceiling more than
1.8 m above grade.

1.09 "Garbage" means the animal and vegetable waste and related waste products resulting from
the handling, preparation, cooking and consumption of food or drink.

1.10 "Guard" means a protective barrier, with or without openings through it, that is around
openings in floors or at the open sides of stairs, landings, balconies, mezzanines, galleries,
raised walkways or other locations to prevent accidental falls from one level to another.

1.11 "Habitable Room" means any room designed for living, sleeping, eating or food
preparation, including a den, library, sewing room or enclosed sun room.

1.12 "Means of Egress" includes exits and access to exits and means a continuous path of travel
provided for the escape of persons from any point in a building or in a contained open space
to,
a) a separate building
b) an open public thoroughfare, or
c) an exterior open space that is protected from fire exposure from the building and
that has access to an open public thoroughfare
1.13 "Multiple Dwelling" means a building containing three or more dwelling units.

1.14 "Non-Habitable Room" means any room in a dwelling or dwelling unit other than a
habitable room and includes a bathroom, a toilet room, laundry, pantry, lobby, corridor,
stairway, closet, boiler room, or other space for service and maintenance of the dwelling for
public use, and for access to and vertical travel between storeys, and basement or part thereof
which does not comply with the standards of fitness for occupancy set out in this By-Law.

1.15 "Non-Residential Property" means a building or structure or part of a building or structure
not occupied in whole or in part for the purpose of human habitation, and includes the lands
and premises appurtenant and all of the outbuildings, fences or erections thereon or therein.

1.16 "Officer" means a Property Standards Officer appointed by the Corporation to administer
and enforce this by-law. The current Chief Building Official is the Property Standards
Officer.

1.17 "Person" means any human being, association, firm, partnership, incorporated company,
corporation, agent or trustee, and the heirs, executor or other legal representatives of a person
to whom the context can apply according to law.

1.18 "Residential Property" means any property that is used or designed for use as a domestic
establishment in which one or more persons usually sleep and prepare and serve meals, and
includes any land or buildings that are appurtenant to such establishment and all stairways,
walkways, driveways, parking spaces, and fences associated with the dwelling or its yard.

1.19 "Rubbish" means any combustible or non-combustible discarded or waste materials except
garbage and shall include debris and other refuse.

1.20 "Sewage" means sanitary sewage or storm sewage.

1.21 "Standards" means the standards of the physical condition and of occupancy prescribed for
property by this By-Law.

1.22 "Toilet Room" means a room containing a water closet and a wash basin.

1.23 "Yard" means the land other than publicly owned land around or appurtenant to the whole
or any part of a residential or non-residential property and used or capable of being
used in connection with the property.

1.24 "Complaints" means all complaints received regarding Property Standards issues shall be in
writing and signed. The only exception to this rule are complaints received by the Mayor, any
present member of Council, the Chief Administrator, Clerk, Deputy Clerk, or Treasurer of
the Town of South Bruce Peninsula which will be followed up in writing to the Chief
Administrative Officer.
PART II

GENERAL STANDARDS FOR ALL PROPERTY

RESIDENTIAL & VACANT BUILDING LOT

2.01 a) All repairs and maintenance of property shall be carried out with suitable
and sufficient materials and in a manner accepted as good workmanship. All construction or
repairs shall conform to the Ontario Building Code/Act and the Fire Code/Act.

b) That the owner, tenant or occupant of lessee shall repair and maintain the property in
accordance with the standards prescribed in this by-law to the Ontario Building Code/Act and
the Fire Code/Act to the satisfaction of the officer.

YARDS

2.02 Every residential yard, including vacant building lots shall be kept clean and free from:

(1) rubbish or debris and objects or conditions that may create a health, fire, or accident
hazard;

(2) derelict machinery, vehicles trailers or boats;

(3) all vehicles on any property must be licenced for the current year or be stored in a
building.

(4) dilapidated, collapsed or partially constructed structures which are not currently
under construction;

(5) injurious insects, termites, rodents, vermin or other pests; and

(6) all trees in any yard or on vacant property shall be kept pruned so as to be free from
dead or dying branches, the collapse of which would be capable of causing injury or
damage.

SURFACE CONDITIONS

2.03 Surface conditions of yards shall be maintained so as to:

(1) prevent ponding of storm water;

(2) prevent instability of erosion of soil;

(3) prevent surface water run-off from entering basements;

(4) not exhibit an unsightly appearance;

(5) be kept free of garbage and refuse;
(6) be kept free of deep ruts and holes;

(7) provide for safe passage under normal use and weather conditions, day or night; and

(8) not to create a nuisance to other property.

SEWAGE AND DRAINAGE

2.04 Sewage shall be discharged into the approved sewage system .

2.05 Sewage of any kind shall not be discharged onto the surface of the ground, whether into a
natural or artificial surface drainage system or otherwise.

2.06 All yards, including-vacant property, shall be graded and maintained in such a manner so as
to prevent the excessive or recurrent ponding of stormwater thereon, or the drainage of such
water into any basement or crawl space, and shall be cultivated or protected with a suitable
ground cover to prevent erosion of the soil, provided however, that the grade level of such
lands shall not be altered so as to either impede the natural flow of water through such
property from any adjoining property, nor as to cause the drainage of stormwater onto any
adjacent property, unless such alteration is in accordance with a grading plan approved by the
Town.

2.07 Stormwater run-off from all downspouts or impervious surfaces, and the drainage of water
from all swimming pools, shall be contained within the limits of the property from which it
originated until absorbed by the soil or drained to a storm sewer or to a naturally created
swale or watercourse or to an artificially created ditch or watercourse that has been approved
or constructed by the Town. Such drainage shall be extended to take the stormwater run-off
from all roof and other artificially created impervious surfaces except that the aforementioned
extension may be omitted if appropriate measures are taken to ensure that such stormwater
run-off is self contained on the property as heretofore described, and further, that said
stormwater will not collect thereon in such a manner as to endanger or create nuisance to
persons on or adjacent to the property.

PARKING AREAS, WALKS AND DRIVEWAYS

2.08 Steps, walks, driveways, parking spaces and other similar areas shall be maintained so as to
afford safe passage under normal use and weather conditions day or night.

ACCESSORY BUILDING, FENCES, AND OTHER STRUCTURES

2.09 Accessory building, fences, and other structures appurtenant to the property shall be
maintained in good repair.
GARBAGE DISPOSAL

2.10 Every building, dwelling, and dwelling unit shall be provided with a sufficient number of
suitable receptacles to contain all garbage, refuse and ashes that may accumulate on the
property between the regularly designated collection days.

2.11 All garbage and refuse shall be promptly placed in a suitable container and made available
for removal in accordance with the Municipal garbage collection By-Law where applicable.

2.12 Garbage storage areas shall be screened from public view.

COMPOST HEAPS

2.13 The occupant of a residential property may provide for a compost heap in accordance with
the health regulations, provided that the compost pile is no larger than one square metre and
1.8 meters in height and is enclosed on three sides by concrete block, wood, other suitable
material, or a commercial plastic enclosed container designed for composting.

PART III

RESIDENTIAL STANDARDS

GENERAL CONDITIONS

3.01 Every owner, tenant or occupant of lessee of a residential property shall maintain the
property in a clean, sanitary and safe condition and shall dispose of garbage and debris on a
regular basis, in accordance with Municipal By-Laws.

3.02 Every owner, tenant or occupant of lessee of a residential property shall maintain every floor,
wall, ceiling and fixture, under their control, including hallways, entrances, laundry rooms,
utility rooms, and other common areas, in a clean, sanitary and safe condition.

3.03 Accumulations or storage of garbage, refuse, appliances, or furniture in a means of egress
shall not be permitted.

PEST PREVENTION

3.04 Dwellings shall be kept free of rodents, vermin and insects at all times. Methods used for
exterminating such pests shall be in accordance with the provisions of the Pesticides Act.

3.05 Openings, including windows, that might permit the entry of rodents, insects, vermin or
other pests shall be appropriately screened or sealed.

STRUCTURAL SOUNDNESS

3.06 Every part of a dwelling and building shall be maintained in a structurally sound condition so
as to be capable of safely sustaining its own weight load and any additional load to which it
may be subjected through normal use, having a level of safety as required by the Ontario
Building Code.
3.07 Walls, roofs, and other exterior parts of a building shall be free from loose or improperly
secured objects or materials.

FOUNDATIONS

3.08 Foundation walls of a dwelling or building shall be maintained so as to prevent the entrance
of insects, rodents and excessive moisture. Maintenance includes the shoring of the walls to
prevent settling, installing sub soil drains, where necessary, at the footing, grouting, masonry
cracks, dampproofing and waterproofing walls, joints and floors.

3.09 Every dwelling and building, except for slab on grade construction, shall be supported by
foundation walls or piers which extend below the frost line, or to solid rock.

EXTERIOR WALLS

3.10 Exterior walls of a dwelling, building and their components, including soffits, fascia, shall be
maintained in good repair free from cracked, broken or loose masonry units, stucco, and
other defective cladding, or trim. Paint or some other suitable preservative or coating must be
applied and maintained so as to prevent deterioration due to weather conditions, insects or
other damage.

3.11 Exterior walls of a dwelling, building and their components shall be free of unauthorized
signs, painted slogans, graffiti and similar defacements.

WINDOWS AND DOORS

3.12 Windows, doors, skylights, and basement or cellar hatchways shall be maintained in good
repair, weather tight and reasonably draft-free, to prevent heat loss and infiltration by the
elements. Maintenance includes but is not limited to painting, replacing damaged doors,
frames and other components, window frames, sashes and casings, replacement of non-
serviceable hardware and replacing where necessary. Where screening is provided on
windows and doors it shall also be maintained in good repair.

3.13 In a dwelling unit, all windows that are intended to be opened and all exterior doors shall
have suitable hardware so as to allow locking or otherwise securing from inside the dwelling
unit. At least one entrance door to a dwelling unit shall have suitable hardware so as to permit
locking or securing from either inside or outside the dwelling unit.

3.14 Solid core doors shall be provided for all entrances to dwellings and dwelling units.

3.15 In residential buildings where there is a voice communication unit working in conjunction
with a security locking and release system controlling a particular entrance door and installed
between individual dwelling units and a secured entrance area, the said system shall be
maintained in good working order at all times.

3.16 Every window in a leased dwelling unit that is located above the first storey of a multiple
dwelling shall be equipped with an approved safety device that would prevent any part of the
window from opening greater than would permit the passage of a 100 mm diameter (3.9
inches)sphere. Such safety device shall not prevent the window from being fully opened
during an emergency situation by an adult without the use of tools.

ROOFS

3.17 Roofs of dwellings and their components shall be maintained in a weather tight condition,
free from loose or unsecured objects or materials.

3.18 The roofs of dwellings and buildings shall be kept clear of accumulations of ice or snow or
both which would be capable of causing injury or damage.

3.19 Where eavestroughing, roof gutters, are provided they shall be kept in good repair, free from
obstructions and properly secured to the building.

WALLS, CEILINGS AND FLOORS

3.20 Every wall, ceiling and floor in a dwelling shall be maintained so as to provide a continuous
surface free of holes, cracks, loose coverings or other defects. Walls surrounding showers and
bathtubs shall be impervious to water.

3.21 Every floor in a dwelling shall be reasonably smooth and level and maintained so as to be
impervious to water and readily cleaned

STAIRS, RAMPS, HANDRAILS AND GUARDS

3.22 Inside and outside stairs, porches, balconies and landings shall be maintained so as to be free
of holes, cracks, and other defects which constitute accident hazards. Existing stair treads or
risers that are broken, warped or loose and any supporting structural members that are rotted
or deteriorated shall be repaired or replaced as per the Ontario Building Code.

3.23 A guard shall be installed and maintained in good repair on the open side of any stairway or
ramp containing three (3) or more risers including the landing or a height of 600mm (24")
between adjacent levels. A handrail shall be installed and maintained in good repair in all
stairwells. Guards and handrails shall be installed and maintained in good repair around all
landings, porches, balconies and decks. Guards, balustrades and handrails shall be
constructed and maintained to the Ontario Building Code.

KITCHENS

3.24 Every dwelling shall contain a kitchen area equipped with:

(a) a sink that is served with hot and cold running water and is surrounded by surfaces
impervious to grease and water;

(b) suitable storage area

(c) a counter or work area that is impervious to moisture and grease and is easily
cleanable; and
(d) a space provided for cooking and refrigeration appliances including the suitable
electrical and/or gas connections.

All of above will be in accordance with the Ontario Building Code.

TOILET AND BATHROOM FACILITIES

3.25 Every dwelling unit shall contain a bathroom consisting of at least one fully operational water
closet, washbasin, and a bathtub or suitable shower unit. Every washbasin and bathtub or
shower shall have an adequate supply of hot and cold running water. Every water closet shall
have a suitable supply of running water.

3.26 Every required bathroom or toilet room shall be accessible from within the dwelling unit and
shall be fully enclosed and provided with a door capable of being locked so as to allow
privacy for the persons using said room.

3.27 Where toilet or bathroom facilities are shared by occupants of residential accommodation,
other than self-contained dwelling units, an appropriate entrance shall be provided from a
common passageway, hallway, corridor or other common space to the room or rooms
containing the said facilities.

PLUMBING

3.28 Each washbasin, a bathtub or shower, and one kitchen sink shall be equipped with an
adequate supply of hot and cold running water. Hot water shall be supplied at a temperature
of not less than 43 degrees Celsius (110F).

3.29 Every dwelling unit shall be provided with an adequate supply of potable running water from
a source approved by the Medical Officer of Health.

3.30 All plumbing shall be maintained in good working condition free of leaks and defects and all
plumbing and appurtenances thereto shall be protected from freezing.

3.31 All plumbing shall be connected to the sewage system through water seal traps.

3.32 All plumbing shall be CSA (Canadian Standards Association) approved.

ELECTRICAL SERVICE

3.33 The electrical wiring, fixtures, switches, receptacles, and appliances located or used in
dwellings, dwelling units and accessory buildings shall be installed and maintained in good
working order so as not to cause fire or electrical shock hazards. All electrical services shall
conform to the regulations established by the ESA (Electrical Safety Association), as
amended.

3.34 Every habitable room in a dwelling shall have wiring and fixtures as per the ESA (Electrical
Safety Association) and OBC (Ontario Building Code).
3.35 All rooms shall be provided with a permanent light fixture.

3.36 Lighting fixtures and appliances installed throughout a dwelling unit, including hallways,
stairways, corridors, passage ways, garages and basements, shall provide sufficient
illumination so as to avoid health or accident hazards in normal use as per OBC (Ontario
Building Code) and ESA (Electrical Safety Association)

HEATING AND HEATING SYSTEMS

3.37 Every dwelling and building containing a residential dwelling unit or units shall be provided
with suitable heating facilities capable of maintaining an indoor ambient temperature in
accordance with the Ontario Building Code, as amended. The heating system shall be
maintained in good working condition so as to be capable of safely heating the individual
dwelling unit or building to the required standard.

3.38 All fuel burning appliances, equipment, and accessories in a dwelling or building shall be
installed and maintained to the standards provided by the manufacturer's instructions and the
CSA (Canadian Standards Association), as amended or other applicable law.

3.39 Where a heating system or part thereof that requires solid or liquid fuel to operate, a place or
receptacle for such fuel shall be provided and maintained in accordance with the TSSA
(Technical Safety Standards Association).

FIRE ESCAPES, ALARMS AND DETECTORS

3.40 Shall be installed and maintained in accordance with the Ontario Building Code and the
Ontario Fire Code, as amended.

EGRESS

3.41 Every dwelling and each dwelling unit contained therein shall have a safe, continuous and
unobstructed passage from the interior of the dwelling and the dwelling unit to the outside at
street or grade level.

NATURAL LIGHT

3.42 All habitable rooms shall have a window or windows, skylights or translucent panels facing
directly or indirectly to an outside space and admit natural light equal to not less than ten
percent of the floor area for living and dining rooms and five percent of the floor area for
bedrooms and other finished rooms.

VENTILATION

3.43 All systems of mechanical ventilation shall be maintained in good working order.

3.44 All enclosed areas including basements, cellars, crawl spaces and attics or roof spaces shall
be ventilated.
ELEVATING DEVICES

3.45 Elevators and other elevating devices shall be operational and in good working order in
accordance with TSSA Standards.

DISCONNECTED UTILITIES

3.46 Owners of residential buildings or any person or persons acting on behalf of such owner shall
not disconnect or cause to be disconnected any service or utility supplying heat, electricity,
gas, refrigeration or water to any residential unit or building occupied by a tenant or lessee,
except for such reasonable period of time as may be necessary for the purpose of repairing,
replacing or otherwise altering said service or utility.

OCCUPANCY STANDARDS

3.47 Occupancy standards shall be in accordance with the Ontario Building Code and the Ontario
Fire Code as amended.

PART IV

VACANT BUILDINGS

4.01 Vacant buildings shall be kept cleared of all garbage, rubbish and debris and shall have all
water, electrical and gas services turned off, tagged and recorded by the provider/owner
except for those services that are required for the security and maintenance of the property.

4.02 The owner or agent of a vacant building shall board up the building to the satisfaction of the
Property Standards Officer by covering all openings through which entry may be obtained
with at least 12.7 mm (0.5 inch) weatherproof sheet plywood securely fastened to the
building and painted a colour compatible with the surrounding walls.

PART V

NON-RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY STANDARDS

5.01 a) All repairs and maintenance of property shall be carried out with suitable and
sufficient materials and in a manner accepted as good workmanship. All construction or
repairs shall conform to the Ontario Building Code/Act and the Fire Code/Act.

b) That the owner, tenant or occupant of lessee shall repair and maintain the property in
accordance with the standards prescribed in this by-law to the Ontario Building Code/Act and
the Fire Code/Act to the satisfaction of the officer.
YARDS

5.02 The yards of non-residential property shall be maintained to the standards as described in Part
II, Article 2.02 of this By-Law.

5.03 The warehousing or storage of materials of operative equipment that is required for the
continuing operation of the industrial or commercial aspect of the property shall be
maintained in a neat and orderly fashion so as not to create a fire or health hazard or any
unsightly condition and shall provide unobstructive access for emergency vehicles. Where
conditions are such that a neat and orderly fashion is achieved but is still offensive to view,
the offensive area shall be suitably enclosed by a solid wall or a painted board or other
fencing in accordance with the Town of South Bruce Peninsula Fences ByLaw #76-2002.

5.04 All areas used for vehicular traffic, parking spaces and other similar areas shall be maintained
so as to afford safe passage under normal use and weather conditions and control dust on said
areas.

STRUCTURAL SOUNDNESS

5.05 Every part of a building structure shall be maintained in a sound condition so as to be capable
of safely sustaining its own weight load and any additional load to which it may be subjected
through normal use, having a level of safety required by the Ontario Building Code and other
applicable law. Structural members or materials that have bean damaged or indicate evidence
of deterioration shall be repaired or replaced to the satisfaction of a qualified professional.

5.06 Walls, roofs, and other exterior parts of a building or structure shall be free from loose or
improperly secured objects or materials to the satisfaction of the Property Standards Officer.

EXTERIOR WALLS

5.07 Exterior walls of a building or a structure and their components, shall be free of unauthorized
signs, painted slogans, graffiti and similar defacements.

GUARDRAILS AND STAIRWAYS

5.08 All guardrails and stairways should be installed and maintained in accordance with the
Ontario Building Code.

LIGHTING

5.09 All non-residential establishments shall install and maintain sufficient windows or skylights,
and lighting fixtures necessary for the safety of all persons attending the premises or as may
be required by the Occupational Health and Safety Act for industrial and commercial
properties. However, lighting shall not be positioned so as to cause any impairment of use or
enjoyment on neighbouring properties.
PART VI

ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT

6.01 This By-Law shall apply to all property within the limits of the Town of South Bruce
Peninsula.

6.02 The imperial measurements contained in this By-Law are given for reference only.

OFFICERS

6.03 The Council of the Town of South Bruce Peninsula shall appoint a Property Standards
Officer(s) to be responsible for the administration and enforcement of this By-law.

PROPERTY STANDARDS COMMITTEE

6.04 Council shall appoint at large, by a Resolution,(or By-Law) of Council no fewer than three
(3) persons of the Municipality to the Property Standards Committee for a term of office
concurrent with Council in accordance with the Ontario Building Code/Act as amended.

6.05 Each member of the Property Standards Committee, appointed by Council, shall be entitled
to an honorarium of $ 40.00 per appeal meeting plus mileage rates as adopted by Council.

6.06 Every person who initiates an appeal of and Order made under section 15.2(2) of the Ontario
Building Code Act, S.O. 1992, c23, shall submit a Notice of Appeal in the time frame and the
manner as prescribed in section 15.3(1) of the Act. All Notices of Appeal shall be
accompanied by a non-refundable payment of $ 125.00 dollars.


COMPLIANCE

6.07 The owner of any property which does not conform to the standards as set out in this By-Law
shall repair and/or maintain said property to comply with the standards or the property may
be cleared of all buildings, structures, debris or refuse. All costs associated with repair or
maintenance will be the responsibility of the owner. At the discretion of the Property
Standards Officer, the property may be left in a leveled and graded condition.


VALIDITY

6.08 If an article of this By-Law is for any reason held to be invalid, the remaining articles shall
remain in effect until repealed.

6.09 Where a provision of this By-Law conflicts with the provision of another By-Law in force
within the Municipality, the provisions that establish the higher standards to protect the
health, safety and welfare of the general public shall prevail.
TRANSITIONAL RULES

6.10 After the date of the passing of this By-Law, By-Law No.18-2001, as amended, shall apply
only to those properties in which an Order to Comply has been issued prior to the date of
passing of this By-Law, and then only to such properties until such time as the work required
by such Order has been completed or any enforcement proceedings with respect to such
Order, including any demolition, clearance, or repair carried out by the Municipality shall
have been concluded.

TITLE

6.11 This By-Law may be referred to as "The Property Standards By-Law".

SPECIAL PROVISIONS

6.12 Every person who violates a provision of this By-Law is guilty of an offence and on
conviction is liable to a penalty provided in Section 36 of the Building Code Act, as amended
from time to time.
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF SOUTH BRUCE PENINSULA
INFORMAL NOTICE

Current Date____________________
Owner's Name and Address


Dear Sir/Madam:

RE: Description and Location of Property

Be advised that on an inspection of your property, as noted above, revealed

certain violations of the Municipality's Property Standards By-Law No. .

Schedule "A", attached hereto, sets out the work required to remedy such violation and to bring

the property into compliance with the By-Law.


Be advised that By-Law No. gives the Municipality the authority to issue an

ORDER TO COMPLY pursuant to Section 15.2-(2), Ontario Building Code Act , S.0.1992,

c.23.


It is desired that you will comply with this informal notice that the aforementioned procedural

step will not be necessary.

A reinspection of this property will take place on or about to ascertain

compliance.


Should you require further information pertaining to this matter please do not hesitate to contact

the undersigned during normal business hours.
Property Standard Officer_______________________


Telephone Numbers
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF SOUTH BRUCE PENINSULA


ORDER TO REMEDY VIOLATION

OF STANDARDS OF MAINTENANCE AND OCCUPANCY


Pursuant to Section 15.2 of the Ontario Building Code Act, S.0.1992, c.23


Date ________________________

Owner's Name and Address


Dear Sir/Madam:


RE: Description and Location of Property Violation


WHEREAS on you were served with an Informal NOTICE that required you to
remedy certain violation of standards of maintenance and occupancy at your property, described
above.

AND WHEREAS you have failed to remedy the noted violation(s) as set out in Schedule "A"
attached hereto and which forms part of this ORDER.

THEREFORE, IT IS HEREBY CHARGED THAT the violation(s) as set out in Schedule "A" be
remedied and the property brought into a condition of compliance with the prescribed standards as
set out in the Property Standards By-Law No. on or before.

Date

TAKE NOTICE that if such violations are not remedied within the time specified in this order, the
Municipality may correct such violations at the expense of the owner.
APPEAL TO PROPERTY STANDARDS COMMITTEE

If an owner or occupant upon whom an order has been served is not satisfied with the terms or
conditions of the order may appeal to the committee by sending a NOTICE OF APPEAL by
registered mail to the Secretary of the committee within fourteen (14) days after service of the order,
and, in the event that no appeal is taken, the order shall be deemed to have been confirmed.

FINAL DATE FOR APPEAL: .

Property Standards Officer

Telephone Numbers
NOTICE OF APPEAL

TO PROPERTY STANDARDS COMMITTEE

Pursuant to Section 15.1 of the Ontario Building Code Act


Date ___________________________

To the Secretary
Property Standards Appeal Committee
Corporation of the Town of South Bruce Peninsula


RE: Order to Remedy Violation of Standards of Maintenance and Occupancy at:


Description and Location of Property Violation

TAKE NOTICE of the appeal of the undersigned to the Property Standards Appeal Committee because of
dissatisfaction with the above referenced order to remedy violation of standards of maintenance and occupancy
served upon the undersigned on .

Name (owner or Agent)
Address:


Telephone Number:


APPEAL TO PROPERTY STANDARDS COMMITTEE

If an owner or occupant upon who an order has been served is not satisfied with the
terms or conditions of the order they may appeal to the committee by sending a NOTICE TO APPEAL by
registered mail to the Secretary of the committee within fourteen (14) days after service of the order, in the
event that no appeal is taken, the order shall be deemed to have been confirmed


The Building Code Act,S.O. 1992, Chapter 23, section 15.3(1)


Signature of Owner or Authorized Agent
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF SOUTH BRUCE PENINSULA

SUBSTANDARD PROPERTY

Ontario Building Code Act,S.O. 1992, c.23

ORDER TO COMPLY


RE: Description and Location of Property in Violation


THIS PROPERTY has been found NOT to be in conformity with the Standards of Maintenance and
Occupancy established by this Municipality and as set out in the Property Standards By-Law No
.


SCHEDULE "A", attached hereto, sets out the work required to remedy such violation(s) and to
bring the property into compliance with the By-Law.


BE ADVISED THAT THIS PROPERTY MUST BE MADE TO CONFORM WITH THE BY-LAW
ON OR BEFORE THE DAY OF
, .


Further information may be obtained at the Property Standards Office located at:
Dated at , This Day of , .

Property Standards Officer


Telephone Number
TABLE OF CONTENTS


PART I DEFINITIONS


PART II GENERAL STANDARDS FOR ALL PROPERTY


2.01 Residential and Vacant Building Lot
2.02 Yards
2.03 Surface Conditions
2.04 Sewage and Drainage
2.08 Parking Areas, Walks and Driveways
2.09 Accessory Buildings, Fences and Other Structures
2.10 Garbage Disposal
2.13 Compost Heaps


PART III RESIDENTIAL STANDARDS


3.01 General Conditions
3.04 Pest Prevention
3.06 Structural Soundness
3.08 Foundations
3.10 Exterior Walls
3.12 Windows and Doors
3.17 Roofs
3.20 Walls, Ceiling and Floors
3.21 Stairs, Ramps, Handrails and Guards
3.24 Kitchens
3.25 Toilet and Bathroom Facilities
3.28 Plumbing
3.33 Electrical Service
3.37 Heating, Heating Systems, Chimneys and Vents
3.40 Fire Escape, Alarms and Detectors
3.41 Egress
3.42 Natural Light
3.43 Ventilation
3.45 Elevating Devices
3.46 Disconnected Utilities
3.47 Occupancy Standards


PART IV VACANT BUILDINGS


4.01 Vacant Buildings
PART V NON-RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY STANDARDS


5.01 Repairs & Maintenance
5.02 Yards
5.05 Structural Soundness
5.07 Exterior Walls
5.08 Guardrails and Stairways
5.09 Lighting


PART VI ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT


6.03 Officers
6.04 Property Standards Committee
6.07 Compliance
6.08 Validity
6.10 Transitional Rules
6.11 Title
6.12 Special Provisions

Notice to Residents - Bear Proof Dumpsters

NOTICE TO RESIDENTS

The cost to residents for the purchase of
personal bear proof dumpsters will be
increasing at the end of August 2008.

Get your bear proof dumpster now to take
advantage of the lower price. Visit Town
Hall, 315 George Street Wiarton or call 519-
534-1400 for more information.

Communities in Bloom Committee-Award Winners 2008

The Communities in Bloom committee held a `Front Garden Contest recently. The
winner of the `Perennial' category-Carol Hornburg, of Berford Lake, Gary and Marg
Collins, Wiarton won a `Judges' Award' in the same category. Gord and Ellie Cox ,of
Bruce Road # 13, received an `Honourable Mention' also. Doris Summers, Wiarton, won
in the `Balcony'; Connie Emerson, Wiarton, won in the `Structures and Planters' and
Mary Growden won in the `Shade Garden' category. Some of the comments from the
judges-Betty Adair and Reba Dalgleish, of Owen Sound, were "interesting, thoughtful
variety, great use of natural materials, creative, inspiring peaceful, colourful, pleasant,
delightful, unique, excellent variety, care and pride, health garden and outstanding
property. Many thanks to all who participated and to the judges for viewing. Plan for the
spring of 2009!!!

Habitat for Humanity Families Wanted

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Continuance of Aug 18th COW Mtg Aug 20th @ 12 p.m.

PUBLIC NOTICE OF MEETING
CONTINUATION OF AGENDA ITEMS FROM AUGUST 18th, 2008

The Council of the Corporation of the Town of South Bruce Peninsula have added
the following date for continuation of the Committee of the Whole meeting of
August 18, 2008.

August 20th, 2008 @ 12:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers

The purpose of the meeting is to deal with items that were not dealt with at the
regularly scheduled meeting of August 18, 2008.

Special Committee Of the Whole Meeting Aug 20 2008

Public notice - Consideration of Property Standard

PUBLIC NOTICE RE CONSIDERATION OF
PROPERTY STANDARDS BY-LAW

Take notice that the Council of the Corporation of the Town of South Bruce Peninsula
will be considering a by-law to prescribe the standards for the maintenance and
occupancy of property within the Town of South Bruce Peninsula.

Consideration of first and second reading of the by-law will take place at the September
2nd Council meeting with possible final consideration at the September 15th Council
meeting to be held at 315 George Street Wiarton.

For further information contact: Rhonda Cook, Clerk
Town of South Bruce Peninsula
(519) 534-1400 ext. 121
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF SOUTH BRUCE PENINSULA

BY-LAW NUMBER
A By-law to prescribe the standards for the maintenance and occupancy of
property within the Town of South Bruce Peninsula


WHEREAS under Section 15.1 (3) of the Building Code Act, S.O. 1992, c.23, a by-law may be
passed by the Council of a Municipality prescribing the standards for the maintenance and occupancy
of property within the Municipality provided the official plan for the Municipality includes provision
relating to property conditions;

AND WHEREAS the Official Plan for The Town of South Bruce Peninsula includes provisions
relating to property conditions;

AND WHEREAS the Council of The Town of South Bruce Peninsula is desirous of passing a by-
law under Section 15.1 (3) of the Building Code Act, S.O. 1992, c.23;

AND WHEREAS Section 15.6 (1) of the Building Code Act, S.O. 1992, c.23 requires that a by-law
passed under Section 15.1 (3) of the Building Code Act, S.O. 1992, c. 23 shall provide for the
establishment of a Property Standards Committee;

AND WHEREAS the Council of the Corporation of the Town of South Bruce Peninsula deems it
desirable to regulate and govern the maintenance of land and buildings in order to enhance the
quality of communities and/or neighbourhoods, to protect the safety, health and well-being of the
public and to ensure the continued enjoyment of property for residents and property owners of the
Municipality.

NOW THEREFORE the Council of The Town of South Bruce Peninsula hereby enacts the
following:

1. That the attached regulations form part of this by-law.

2. Every person who contravenes the provisions of this By-law is guilty of an offence
and upon conviction therefore is liable to a penalty as provided for in Sec 61 of the
Provincial Offences Act as amended from time to time.

3. If, for any reason, any section, clause or provision of this By-law is declared by a
Court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, the same shall not affect the validity of
this By-law as a whole or any part thereof, other than the part which was declared to
be invalid.

4. Any By-law inconsistent with this by-law is hereby rescinded

5. This By-law shall come into full force and effect upon the final passing thereof.
READ a FIRST and SECOND time this 12 th day of MARCH, 2001.

MOVED BY

MAYOR

SECONDED BY
CLERK

READ a THIRD time and FINALLY PASSED this 12 th day of MARCH, 2001.

MOVED BY

MAYOR

SECONDED BY
CLERK
PART I

DEFINITIONS

In this by-law:

1.01 "Accessory Building" means a detached building located on the same lot as an existing
building, the use of which is incidental or secondary to that of the main building and which is
not used for human habitation and includes a private garage or implement shed.

1.02 "Apartment Building" means a single building comprised of three or more dwelling units
with shared entrance facilities, where none of the dwelling units are rented or are available
for rent or occupation for periods of less than 30 days.

1.03 "Approved" means acceptance by the Property Standards Officer.

1.04 "Basement" means one or more storeys of a building located below the first storey.

1.05 "Crawl space" means a space beneath a floor with clearance of less than those required for
basements or cellars.

1.06 "Dwelling" means a building or structure or part of a building or structure, occupied or
capable of being occupied, in whole or in part for the purpose of human habitation.

1.07 "Dwelling Unit" means a suite operated as a housekeeping unit, used or intended to be used
as a domicile by one or more persons and usually containing cooking, eating, living, sleeping
and sanitary facilities.

1.08 "First Storey" means the storey that has its floor closest to grade and its ceiling more than
1.8 m above grade.

1.09 "Garbage" means the animal and vegetable waste and related waste products resulting from
the handling, preparation, cooking and consumption of food or drink.

1.10 "Guard" means a protective barrier, with or without openings through it, that is around
openings in floors or at the open sides of stairs, landings, balconies, mezzanines, galleries,
raised walkways or other locations to prevent accidental falls from one level to another.

1.11 "Habitable Room" means any room designed for living, sleeping, eating or food
preparation, including a den, library, sewing room or enclosed sun room.

1.12 "Means of Egress" includes exits and access to exits and means a continuous path of travel
provided for the escape of persons from any point in a building or in a contained open space
to,
a) a separate building
b) an open public thoroughfare, or
c) an exterior open space that is protected from fire exposure from the building and
that has access to an open public thoroughfare
1.13 "Multiple Dwelling" means a building containing three or more dwelling units.

1.14 "Non-Habitable Room" means any room in a dwelling or dwelling unit other than a
habitable room and includes a bathroom, a toilet room, laundry, pantry, lobby, corridor,
stairway, closet, boiler room, or other space for service and maintenance of the dwelling for
public use, and for access to and vertical travel between storeys, and basement or part thereof
which does not comply with the standards of fitness for occupancy set out in this By-Law.

1.15 "Non-Residential Property" means a building or structure or part of a building or structure
not occupied in whole or in part for the purpose of human habitation, and includes the lands
and premises appurtenant and all of the outbuildings, fences or erections thereon or therein.

1.16 "Officer" means a Property Standards Officer appointed by the Corporation to administer
and enforce this by-law. The current Chief Building Official is the Property Standards
Officer.

1.17 "Person" means any human being, association, firm, partnership, incorporated company,
corporation, agent or trustee, and the heirs, executor or other legal representatives of a person
to whom the context can apply according to law.

1.18 "Residential Property" means any property that is used or designed for use as a domestic
establishment in which one or more persons usually sleep and prepare and serve meals, and
includes any land or buildings that are appurtenant to such establishment and all stairways,
walkways, driveways, parking spaces, and fences associated with the dwelling or its yard.

1.19 "Rubbish" means any combustible or non-combustible discarded or waste materials except
garbage and shall include debris and other refuse.

1.20 "Sewage" means sanitary sewage or storm sewage.

1.21 "Standards" means the standards of the physical condition and of occupancy prescribed for
property by this By-Law.

1.22 "Toilet Room" means a room containing a water closet and a wash basin.

1.23 "Yard" means the land other than publicly owned land around or appurtenant to the whole
or any part of a residential or non-residential property and used or capable of being
used in connection with the property.

1.24 "Complaints" means all complaints received regarding Property Standards issues shall be in
writing and signed. The only exception to this rule are complaints received by the Mayor, any
present member of Council, the Chief Administrator, Clerk, Deputy Clerk, or Treasurer of
the Town of South Bruce Peninsula which will be followed up in writing to the Chief
Administrative Officer.
PART II

GENERAL STANDARDS FOR ALL PROPERTY

RESIDENTIAL & VACANT BUILDING LOT

2.01 a) All repairs and maintenance of property shall be carried out with suitable
and sufficient materials and in a manner accepted as good workmanship. All construction or
repairs shall conform to the Ontario Building Code/Act and the Fire Code/Act.

b) That the owner, tenant or occupant of lessee shall repair and maintain the property in
accordance with the standards prescribed in this by-law to the Ontario Building Code/Act and
the Fire Code/Act to the satisfaction of the officer.

YARDS

2.02 Every residential yard, including vacant building lots shall be kept clean and free from:

(1) rubbish or debris and objects or conditions that may create a health, fire, or accident
hazard;

(2) derelict machinery, vehicles trailers or boats;

(3) all vehicles on any property must be licenced for the current year or be stored in a
building.

(4) dilapidated, collapsed or partially constructed structures which are not currently
under construction;

(5) injurious insects, termites, rodents, vermin or other pests; and

(6) all trees in any yard or on vacant property shall be kept pruned so as to be free from
dead or dying branches, the collapse of which would be capable of causing injury or
damage.

SURFACE CONDITIONS

2.03 Surface conditions of yards shall be maintained so as to:

(1) prevent ponding of storm water;

(2) prevent instability of erosion of soil;

(3) prevent surface water run-off from entering basements;

(4) not exhibit an unsightly appearance;

(5) be kept free of garbage and refuse;
(6) be kept free of deep ruts and holes;

(7) provide for safe passage under normal use and weather conditions, day or night; and

(8) not to create a nuisance to other property.

SEWAGE AND DRAINAGE

2.04 Sewage shall be discharged into the approved sewage system .

2.05 Sewage of any kind shall not be discharged onto the surface of the ground, whether into a
natural or artificial surface drainage system or otherwise.

2.06 All yards, including-vacant property, shall be graded and maintained in such a manner so as
to prevent the excessive or recurrent ponding of stormwater thereon, or the drainage of such
water into any basement or crawl space, and shall be cultivated or protected with a suitable
ground cover to prevent erosion of the soil, provided however, that the grade level of such
lands shall not be altered so as to either impede the natural flow of water through such
property from any adjoining property, nor as to cause the drainage of stormwater onto any
adjacent property, unless such alteration is in accordance with a grading plan approved by the
Town.

2.07 Stormwater run-off from all downspouts or impervious surfaces, and the drainage of water
from all swimming pools, shall be contained within the limits of the property from which it
originated until absorbed by the soil or drained to a storm sewer or to a naturally created
swale or watercourse or to an artificially created ditch or watercourse that has been approved
or constructed by the Town. Such drainage shall be extended to take the stormwater run-off
from all roof and other artificially created impervious surfaces except that the aforementioned
extension may be omitted if appropriate measures are taken to ensure that such stormwater
run-off is self contained on the property as heretofore described, and further, that said
stormwater will not collect thereon in such a manner as to endanger or create nuisance to
persons on or adjacent to the property.

PARKING AREAS, WALKS AND DRIVEWAYS

2.08 Steps, walks, driveways, parking spaces and other similar areas shall be maintained so as to
afford safe passage under normal use and weather conditions day or night.

ACCESSORY BUILDING, FENCES, AND OTHER STRUCTURES

2.09 Accessory building, fences, and other structures appurtenant to the property shall be
maintained in good repair.
GARBAGE DISPOSAL

2.10 Every building, dwelling, and dwelling unit shall be provided with a sufficient number of
suitable receptacles to contain all garbage, refuse and ashes that may accumulate on the
property between the regularly designated collection days.

2.11 All garbage and refuse shall be promptly placed in a suitable container and made available
for removal in accordance with the Municipal garbage collection By-Law where applicable.

2.12 Garbage storage areas shall be screened from public view.

COMPOST HEAPS

2.13 The occupant of a residential property may provide for a compost heap in accordance with
the health regulations, provided that the compost pile is no larger than one square metre and
1.8 meters in height and is enclosed on three sides by concrete block, wood, other suitable
material, or a commercial plastic enclosed container designed for composting.

PART III

RESIDENTIAL STANDARDS

GENERAL CONDITIONS

3.01 Every owner, tenant or occupant of lessee of a residential property shall maintain the
property in a clean, sanitary and safe condition and shall dispose of garbage and debris on a
regular basis, in accordance with Municipal By-Laws.

3.02 Every owner, tenant or occupant of lessee of a residential property shall maintain every floor,
wall, ceiling and fixture, under their control, including hallways, entrances, laundry rooms,
utility rooms, and other common areas, in a clean, sanitary and safe condition.

3.03 Accumulations or storage of garbage, refuse, appliances, or furniture in a means of egress
shall not be permitted.

PEST PREVENTION

3.04 Dwellings shall be kept free of rodents, vermin and insects at all times. Methods used for
exterminating such pests shall be in accordance with the provisions of the Pesticides Act.

3.05 Openings, including windows, that might permit the entry of rodents, insects, vermin or
other pests shall be appropriately screened or sealed.

STRUCTURAL SOUNDNESS

3.06 Every part of a dwelling and building shall be maintained in a structurally sound condition so
as to be capable of safely sustaining its own weight load and any additional load to which it
may be subjected through normal use, having a level of safety as required by the Ontario
Building Code.
3.07 Walls, roofs, and other exterior parts of a building shall be free from loose or improperly
secured objects or materials.

FOUNDATIONS

3.08 Foundation walls of a dwelling or building shall be maintained so as to prevent the entrance
of insects, rodents and excessive moisture. Maintenance includes the shoring of the walls to
prevent settling, installing sub soil drains, where necessary, at the footing, grouting, masonry
cracks, dampproofing and waterproofing walls, joints and floors.

3.09 Every dwelling and building, except for slab on grade construction, shall be supported by
foundation walls or piers which extend below the frost line, or to solid rock.

EXTERIOR WALLS

3.10 Exterior walls of a dwelling, building and their components, including soffits, fascia, shall be
maintained in good repair free from cracked, broken or loose masonry units, stucco, and
other defective cladding, or trim. Paint or some other suitable preservative or coating must be
applied and maintained so as to prevent deterioration due to weather conditions, insects or
other damage.

3.11 Exterior walls of a dwelling, building and their components shall be free of unauthorized
signs, painted slogans, graffiti and similar defacements.

WINDOWS AND DOORS

3.12 Windows, doors, skylights, and basement or cellar hatchways shall be maintained in good
repair, weather tight and reasonably draft-free, to prevent heat loss and infiltration by the
elements. Maintenance includes but is not limited to painting, replacing damaged doors,
frames and other components, window frames, sashes and casings, replacement of non-
serviceable hardware and replacing where necessary. Where screening is provided on
windows and doors it shall also be maintained in good repair.

3.13 In a dwelling unit, all windows that are intended to be opened and all exterior doors shall
have suitable hardware so as to allow locking or otherwise securing from inside the dwelling
unit. At least one entrance door to a dwelling unit shall have suitable hardware so as to permit
locking or securing from either inside or outside the dwelling unit.

3.14 Solid core doors shall be provided for all entrances to dwellings and dwelling units.

3.15 In residential buildings where there is a voice communication unit working in conjunction
with a security locking and release system controlling a particular entrance door and installed
between individual dwelling units and a secured entrance area, the said system shall be
maintained in good working order at all times.

3.16 Every window in a leased dwelling unit that is located above the first storey of a multiple
dwelling shall be equipped with an approved safety device that would prevent any part of the
window from opening greater than would permit the passage of a 100 mm diameter (3.9
inches)sphere. Such safety device shall not prevent the window from being fully opened
during an emergency situation by an adult without the use of tools.

ROOFS

3.17 Roofs of dwellings and their components shall be maintained in a weather tight condition,
free from loose or unsecured objects or materials.

3.18 The roofs of dwellings and buildings shall be kept clear of accumulations of ice or snow or
both which would be capable of causing injury or damage.

3.19 Where eavestroughing, roof gutters, are provided they shall be kept in good repair, free from
obstructions and properly secured to the building.

WALLS, CEILINGS AND FLOORS

3.20 Every wall, ceiling and floor in a dwelling shall be maintained so as to provide a continuous
surface free of holes, cracks, loose coverings or other defects. Walls surrounding showers and
bathtubs shall be impervious to water.

3.21 Every floor in a dwelling shall be reasonably smooth and level and maintained so as to be
impervious to water and readily cleaned

STAIRS, RAMPS, HANDRAILS AND GUARDS

3.22 Inside and outside stairs, porches, balconies and landings shall be maintained so as to be free
of holes, cracks, and other defects which constitute accident hazards. Existing stair treads or
risers that are broken, warped or loose and any supporting structural members that are rotted
or deteriorated shall be repaired or replaced as per the Ontario Building Code.

3.23 A guard shall be installed and maintained in good repair on the open side of any stairway or
ramp containing three (3) or more risers including the landing or a height of 600mm (24")
between adjacent levels. A handrail shall be installed and maintained in good repair in all
stairwells. Guards and handrails shall be installed and maintained in good repair around all
landings, porches, balconies and decks. Guards, balustrades and handrails shall be
constructed and maintained to the Ontario Building Code.

KITCHENS

3.24 Every dwelling shall contain a kitchen area equipped with:

(a) a sink that is served with hot and cold running water and is surrounded by surfaces
impervious to grease and water;

(b) suitable storage area

(c) a counter or work area that is impervious to moisture and grease and is easily
cleanable; and
(d) a space provided for cooking and refrigeration appliances including the suitable
electrical and/or gas connections.

All of above will be in accordance with the Ontario Building Code.

TOILET AND BATHROOM FACILITIES

3.25 Every dwelling unit shall contain a bathroom consisting of at least one fully operational water
closet, washbasin, and a bathtub or suitable shower unit. Every washbasin and bathtub or
shower shall have an adequate supply of hot and cold running water. Every water closet shall
have a suitable supply of running water.

3.26 Every required bathroom or toilet room shall be accessible from within the dwelling unit and
shall be fully enclosed and provided with a door capable of being locked so as to allow
privacy for the persons using said room.

3.27 Where toilet or bathroom facilities are shared by occupants of residential accommodation,
other than self-contained dwelling units, an appropriate entrance shall be provided from a
common passageway, hallway, corridor or other common space to the room or rooms
containing the said facilities.

PLUMBING

3.28 Each washbasin, a bathtub or shower, and one kitchen sink shall be equipped with an
adequate supply of hot and cold running water. Hot water shall be supplied at a temperature
of not less than 43 degrees Celsius (110F).

3.29 Every dwelling unit shall be provided with an adequate supply of potable running water from
a source approved by the Medical Officer of Health.

3.30 All plumbing shall be maintained in good working condition free of leaks and defects and all
plumbing and appurtenances thereto shall be protected from freezing.

3.31 All plumbing shall be connected to the sewage system through water seal traps.

3.32 All plumbing shall be CSA (Canadian Standards Association) approved.

ELECTRICAL SERVICE

3.33 The electrical wiring, fixtures, switches, receptacles, and appliances located or used in
dwellings, dwelling units and accessory buildings shall be installed and maintained in good
working order so as not to cause fire or electrical shock hazards. All electrical services shall
conform to the regulations established by the ESA (Electrical Safety Association), as
amended.

3.34 Every habitable room in a dwelling shall have wiring and fixtures as per the ESA (Electrical
Safety Association) and OBC (Ontario Building Code).
3.35 All rooms shall be provided with a permanent light fixture.

3.36 Lighting fixtures and appliances installed throughout a dwelling unit, including hallways,
stairways, corridors, passage ways, garages and basements, shall provide sufficient
illumination so as to avoid health or accident hazards in normal use as per OBC (Ontario
Building Code) and ESA (Electrical Safety Association)

HEATING AND HEATING SYSTEMS

3.37 Every dwelling and building containing a residential dwelling unit or units shall be provided
with suitable heating facilities capable of maintaining an indoor ambient temperature in
accordance with the Ontario Building Code, as amended. The heating system shall be
maintained in good working condition so as to be capable of safely heating the individual
dwelling unit or building to the required standard.

3.38 All fuel burning appliances, equipment, and accessories in a dwelling or building shall be
installed and maintained to the standards provided by the manufacturer's instructions and the
CSA (Canadian Standards Association), as amended or other applicable law.

3.39 Where a heating system or part thereof that requires solid or liquid fuel to operate, a place or
receptacle for such fuel shall be provided and maintained in accordance with the TSSA
(Technical Safety Standards Association).

FIRE ESCAPES, ALARMS AND DETECTORS

3.40 Shall be installed and maintained in accordance with the Ontario Building Code and the
Ontario Fire Code, as amended.

EGRESS

3.41 Every dwelling and each dwelling unit contained therein shall have a safe, continuous and
unobstructed passage from the interior of the dwelling and the dwelling unit to the outside at
street or grade level.

NATURAL LIGHT

3.42 All habitable rooms shall have a window or windows, skylights or translucent panels facing
directly or indirectly to an outside space and admit natural light equal to not less than ten
percent of the floor area for living and dining rooms and five percent of the floor area for
bedrooms and other finished rooms.

VENTILATION

3.43 All systems of mechanical ventilation shall be maintained in good working order.

3.44 All enclosed areas including basements, cellars, crawl spaces and attics or roof spaces shall
be ventilated.
ELEVATING DEVICES

3.45 Elevators and other elevating devices shall be operational and in good working order in
accordance with TSSA Standards.

DISCONNECTED UTILITIES

3.46 Owners of residential buildings or any person or persons acting on behalf of such owner shall
not disconnect or cause to be disconnected any service or utility supplying heat, electricity,
gas, refrigeration or water to any residential unit or building occupied by a tenant or lessee,
except for such reasonable period of time as may be necessary for the purpose of repairing,
replacing or otherwise altering said service or utility.

OCCUPANCY STANDARDS

3.47 Occupancy standards shall be in accordance with the Ontario Building Code and the Ontario
Fire Code as amended.

PART IV

VACANT BUILDINGS

4.01 Vacant buildings shall be kept cleared of all garbage, rubbish and debris and shall have all
water, electrical and gas services turned off, tagged and recorded by the provider/owner
except for those services that are required for the security and maintenance of the property.

4.02 The owner or agent of a vacant building shall board up the building to the satisfaction of the
Property Standards Officer by covering all openings through which entry may be obtained
with at least 12.7 mm (0.5 inch) weatherproof sheet plywood securely fastened to the
building and painted a colour compatible with the surrounding walls.

PART V

NON-RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY STANDARDS

5.01 a) All repairs and maintenance of property shall be carried out with suitable and
sufficient materials and in a manner accepted as good workmanship. All construction or
repairs shall conform to the Ontario Building Code/Act and the Fire Code/Act.

b) That the owner, tenant or occupant of lessee shall repair and maintain the property in
accordance with the standards prescribed in this by-law to the Ontario Building Code/Act and
the Fire Code/Act to the satisfaction of the officer.
YARDS

5.02 The yards of non-residential property shall be maintained to the standards as described in Part
II, Article 2.02 of this By-Law.

5.03 The warehousing or storage of materials of operative equipment that is required for the
continuing operation of the industrial or commercial aspect of the property shall be
maintained in a neat and orderly fashion so as not to create a fire or health hazard or any
unsightly condition and shall provide unobstructive access for emergency vehicles. Where
conditions are such that a neat and orderly fashion is achieved but is still offensive to view,
the offensive area shall be suitably enclosed by a solid wall or a painted board or other
fencing in accordance with the Town of South Bruce Peninsula Fences ByLaw #76-2002.

5.04 All areas used for vehicular traffic, parking spaces and other similar areas shall be maintained
so as to afford safe passage under normal use and weather conditions and control dust on said
areas.

STRUCTURAL SOUNDNESS

5.05 Every part of a building structure shall be maintained in a sound condition so as to be capable
of safely sustaining its own weight load and any additional load to which it may be subjected
through normal use, having a level of safety required by the Ontario Building Code and other
applicable law. Structural members or materials that have bean damaged or indicate evidence
of deterioration shall be repaired or replaced to the satisfaction of a qualified professional.

5.06 Walls, roofs, and other exterior parts of a building or structure shall be free from loose or
improperly secured objects or materials to the satisfaction of the Property Standards Officer.

EXTERIOR WALLS

5.07 Exterior walls of a building or a structure and their components, shall be free of unauthorized
signs, painted slogans, graffiti and similar defacements.

GUARDRAILS AND STAIRWAYS

5.08 All guardrails and stairways should be installed and maintained in accordance with the
Ontario Building Code.

LIGHTING

5.09 All non-residential establishments shall install and maintain sufficient windows or skylights,
and lighting fixtures necessary for the safety of all persons attending the premises or as may
be required by the Occupational Health and Safety Act for industrial and commercial
properties. However, lighting shall not be positioned so as to cause any impairment of use or
enjoyment on neighbouring properties.
PART VI

ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT

6.01 This By-Law shall apply to all property within the limits of the Town of South Bruce
Peninsula.

6.02 The imperial measurements contained in this By-Law are given for reference only.

OFFICERS

6.03 The Council of the Town of South Bruce Peninsula shall appoint a Property Standards
Officer(s) to be responsible for the administration and enforcement of this By-law.

PROPERTY STANDARDS COMMITTEE

6.04 Council shall appoint at large, by a Resolution,(or By-Law) of Council no fewer than three
(3) persons of the Municipality to the Property Standards Committee for a term of office
concurrent with Council in accordance with the Ontario Building Code/Act as amended.

6.05 Each member of the Property Standards Committee, appointed by Council, shall be entitled
to an honorarium of $ 40.00 per appeal meeting plus mileage rates as adopted by Council.

6.06 Every person who initiates an appeal of and Order made under section 15.2(2) of the Ontario
Building Code Act, S.O. 1992, c23, shall submit a Notice of Appeal in the time frame and the
manner as prescribed in section 15.3(1) of the Act. All Notices of Appeal shall be
accompanied by a non-refundable payment of $ 125.00 dollars.


COMPLIANCE

6.07 The owner of any property which does not conform to the standards as set out in this By-Law
shall repair and/or maintain said property to comply with the standards or the property may
be cleared of all buildings, structures, debris or refuse. All costs associated with repair or
maintenance will be the responsibility of the owner. At the discretion of the Property
Standards Officer, the property may be left in a leveled and graded condition.


VALIDITY

6.08 If an article of this By-Law is for any reason held to be invalid, the remaining articles shall
remain in effect until repealed.

6.09 Where a provision of this By-Law conflicts with the provision of another By-Law in force
within the Municipality, the provisions that establish the higher standards to protect the
health, safety and welfare of the general public shall prevail.
TRANSITIONAL RULES

6.10 After the date of the passing of this By-Law, By-Law No.18-2001, as amended, shall apply
only to those properties in which an Order to Comply has been issued prior to the date of
passing of this By-Law, and then only to such properties until such time as the work required
by such Order has been completed or any enforcement proceedings with respect to such
Order, including any demolition, clearance, or repair carried out by the Municipality shall
have been concluded.

TITLE

6.11 This By-Law may be referred to as "The Property Standards By-Law".

SPECIAL PROVISIONS

6.12 Every person who violates a provision of this By-Law is guilty of an offence and on
conviction is liable to a penalty provided in Section 36 of the Building Code Act, as amended
from time to time.
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF SOUTH BRUCE PENINSULA
INFORMAL NOTICE

Current Date____________________
Owner's Name and Address


Dear Sir/Madam:

RE: Description and Location of Property

Be advised that on an inspection of your property, as noted above, revealed

certain violations of the Municipality's Property Standards By-Law No. .

Schedule "A", attached hereto, sets out the work required to remedy such violation and to bring

the property into compliance with the By-Law.


Be advised that By-Law No. gives the Municipality the authority to issue an

ORDER TO COMPLY pursuant to Section 15.2-(2), Ontario Building Code Act , S.0.1992,

c.23.


It is desired that you will comply with this informal notice that the aforementioned procedural

step will not be necessary.

A reinspection of this property will take place on or about to ascertain

compliance.


Should you require further information pertaining to this matter please do not hesitate to contact

the undersigned during normal business hours.
Property Standard Officer_______________________


Telephone Numbers
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF SOUTH BRUCE PENINSULA


ORDER TO REMEDY VIOLATION

OF STANDARDS OF MAINTENANCE AND OCCUPANCY


Pursuant to Section 15.2 of the Ontario Building Code Act, S.0.1992, c.23


Date ________________________

Owner's Name and Address


Dear Sir/Madam:


RE: Description and Location of Property Violation


WHEREAS on you were served with an Informal NOTICE that required you to
remedy certain violation of standards of maintenance and occupancy at your property, described
above.

AND WHEREAS you have failed to remedy the noted violation(s) as set out in Schedule "A"
attached hereto and which forms part of this ORDER.

THEREFORE, IT IS HEREBY CHARGED THAT the violation(s) as set out in Schedule "A" be
remedied and the property brought into a condition of compliance with the prescribed standards as
set out in the Property Standards By-Law No. on or before.

Date

TAKE NOTICE that if such violations are not remedied within the time specified in this order, the
Municipality may correct such violations at the expense of the owner.
APPEAL TO PROPERTY STANDARDS COMMITTEE

If an owner or occupant upon whom an order has been served is not satisfied with the terms or
conditions of the order may appeal to the committee by sending a NOTICE OF APPEAL by
registered mail to the Secretary of the committee within fourteen (14) days after service of the order,
and, in the event that no appeal is taken, the order shall be deemed to have been confirmed.

FINAL DATE FOR APPEAL: .

Property Standards Officer

Telephone Numbers
NOTICE OF APPEAL

TO PROPERTY STANDARDS COMMITTEE

Pursuant to Section 15.1 of the Ontario Building Code Act


Date ___________________________

To the Secretary
Property Standards Appeal Committee
Corporation of the Town of South Bruce Peninsula


RE: Order to Remedy Violation of Standards of Maintenance and Occupancy at:


Description and Location of Property Violation

TAKE NOTICE of the appeal of the undersigned to the Property Standards Appeal Committee because of
dissatisfaction with the above referenced order to remedy violation of standards of maintenance and occupancy
served upon the undersigned on .

Name (owner or Agent)
Address:


Telephone Number:


APPEAL TO PROPERTY STANDARDS COMMITTEE

If an owner or occupant upon who an order has been served is not satisfied with the
terms or conditions of the order they may appeal to the committee by sending a NOTICE TO APPEAL by
registered mail to the Secretary of the committee within fourteen (14) days after service of the order, in the
event that no appeal is taken, the order shall be deemed to have been confirmed


The Building Code Act,S.O. 1992, Chapter 23, section 15.3(1)


Signature of Owner or Authorized Agent
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF SOUTH BRUCE PENINSULA

SUBSTANDARD PROPERTY

Ontario Building Code Act,S.O. 1992, c.23

ORDER TO COMPLY


RE: Description and Location of Property in Violation


THIS PROPERTY has been found NOT to be in conformity with the Standards of Maintenance and
Occupancy established by this Municipality and as set out in the Property Standards By-Law No
.


SCHEDULE "A", attached hereto, sets out the work required to remedy such violation(s) and to
bring the property into compliance with the By-Law.


BE ADVISED THAT THIS PROPERTY MUST BE MADE TO CONFORM WITH THE BY-LAW
ON OR BEFORE THE DAY OF
, .


Further information may be obtained at the Property Standards Office located at:
Dated at , This Day of , .

Property Standards Officer


Telephone Number
TABLE OF CONTENTS


PART I DEFINITIONS


PART II GENERAL STANDARDS FOR ALL PROPERTY


2.01 Residential and Vacant Building Lot
2.02 Yards
2.03 Surface Conditions
2.04 Sewage and Drainage
2.08 Parking Areas, Walks and Driveways
2.09 Accessory Buildings, Fences and Other Structures
2.10 Garbage Disposal
2.13 Compost Heaps


PART III RESIDENTIAL STANDARDS


3.01 General Conditions
3.04 Pest Prevention
3.06 Structural Soundness
3.08 Foundations
3.10 Exterior Walls
3.12 Windows and Doors
3.17 Roofs
3.20 Walls, Ceiling and Floors
3.21 Stairs, Ramps, Handrails and Guards
3.24 Kitchens
3.25 Toilet and Bathroom Facilities
3.28 Plumbing
3.33 Electrical Service
3.37 Heating, Heating Systems, Chimneys and Vents
3.40 Fire Escape, Alarms and Detectors
3.41 Egress
3.42 Natural Light
3.43 Ventilation
3.45 Elevating Devices
3.46 Disconnected Utilities
3.47 Occupancy Standards


PART IV VACANT BUILDINGS


4.01 Vacant Buildings
PART V NON-RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY STANDARDS


5.01 Repairs & Maintenance
5.02 Yards
5.05 Structural Soundness
5.07 Exterior Walls
5.08 Guardrails and Stairways
5.09 Lighting


PART VI ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT


6.03 Officers
6.04 Property Standards Committee
6.07 Compliance
6.08 Validity
6.10 Transitional Rules
6.11 Title
6.12 Special Provisions

Sunday, August 17, 2008

First Impressions Report Presented August 14 2008

First Impressions Community Exchange

Community Visited: Allenford, Sauble Beach, Hepworth, and Wiarton

Date of Visit: June 5, 2008
Visit Completed by (community): Economic Development Consultants
Blenheim, Guelph and Woodstock
First Impressions Community Exchange
Final Report

Community Visited:

VISITING TEAM PROFILE
Name: Barbara Burgess Age: Gender: F
Address: Blenheim
Phone: 519-676-9850 E-mail:

Name: Susan Powell Age: Gender: F
Address: Guelph
Phone: 519-826-4042 E-mail:

Name: Nancy Ross Age: Gender: F
Address: Woodstock
Phone: 519-537-2656 E-mail:

Name: Age: Gender:
Address:
Phone: E-mail:

Name: Age: Gender:
Address:
Phone: E-mail:

Name: Age: Gender:
Address:
Phone: E-mail:

Date of visit and time spent: 9:30 am ­ 5:30 pm

Weather on date of visit: Cool and overcast June day. Heavy rain mid-day.

PRIOR TO YOUR VISIT

What was your perception of the community before the visit? What were you expecting to see?
Please comment on your prior knowledge of this community.

· Expected small rural agricultural communities.
· Knew that Willie was from Wiarton
· Perceived that Wiarton is the gateway to the Bruce Peninsula
· Rugged landscape and beautiful water / lakes
· Major tourist region ­ Sauble Beach

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First Impressions Community Exchange
Final Report
Ease of getting information by mail and telephone about the community visited:

· N/A

Level of satisfaction with the quality of the information received:

· N/A

Timeliness of arrival of the requested information (if appropriate):

· N/A

Ease of obtaining information on the community through a web search:

· Very impressed with web site, particularly that it included "all" communities in drop down menu.
Bit of confusion when googled "South Bruce", it drove us to the Municipality of South Bruce which led
us to Mildmay and Teeswater rather than South Bruce Peninsula
· Both Wiarton and Sauble Beach have individual web pages focusing on respective towns (not as
informative as full site)

Quality of the community's online materials and information:

· South Bruce Peninsula site: Very impressed with level of information and eye appealing look. Liked
links to other agencies, example "Bruce Peninsula Tourism, Owen Sound Transportation Co"

THE "FIVE MINUTE" IMPRESSION

After taking a five-minute drive through the community, without stopping, the following
reactions were noted:

· Hepworth Sauble Beach and Wiarton were active, clean, busy communities with apparent pride and
potential for vibrancy
· Allenford very quiet ­ virtually little / no activity ( by locals / visitors) Generally tired looking and
no apparent reason to stop

COMMUNITY ENTRANCES

The following observations were noted when entering the community from major entrances:

Observations (Allenford, Hepworth, Sauble Beach and Wiarton)
· Inconsistency across all four communities ­ in some cases no signs except Provincial signage
· Allenford had no community signs

NOTABLES: Wiarton had a very impressive large gateway sign
Sauble's entrance sign to the beach was unique

OPPORTUNITY; to develop a brand transfer branding to all signs, gateways, brochures, events


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent


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First Impressions Community Exchange
Final Report


HOUSING AND RESIDENTIAL AREAS

Overall quality, affordability and availability of housing in the community:

All four communities to have a very good range of choice and quality of homes. Allenford too had
older well maintained homes. Apartment buildings noted in all four communities.


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent


Quality (scale of 1 to 10) Type of Housing
9 Existing/Older Homes
4-9 Senior Citizen Housing
7 New Construction
4-8 Apartments/Rental Housing

NOTEABLES: Wiarton senior complex and Hepworth's new subdivision

Comments:
· Senior's housing in Allenford appeared marginal thus the lower rating ­ on the other end the facility in
Wiarton was excellent reflecting the higher rating

Affordability (adequacy of housing to suit a variety of income levels):

· Price ranges looked reasonable

Comments: Saw very few homes for sale reflecting a stable market


Most appealing and least appealing features of the housing:

· All stately homes were well maintained and pride of ownership


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First Impressions Community Exchange
Final Report
· Good mix of newer homes and sub-divisions noted
· Some run down properties


Quality and availability of residential infrastructure (e.g., roads, sidewalks, lighting, public
transportation, green space):

· In general sidewalks, lighting and roads in good repair.
· Allenford could use a bit of sidewalk work
· No visible sign of public transportation

NOTABLES: Wiarton had beautiful Victorian lights in the downtown
Very good green spaces in all 4 communities
Playground facilities for young children were very adequate

Overall Appeal of Housing (scale of 1 to 10) Group
4 Single Young Adults
7 Young Families
7 Middle Income
4-8 Senior Citizens
5 Upscale/Professional

Comments:

· Fairly good mix overall, perhaps lacking in the Single Young Adult category (particularly for Allenford
and Hepworth)
· Seniors gravitate to Wiarton due to availability of amenities and services


EDUCATION, HEALTH, SOCIAL AND EMERGENCY SERVICES

Education (availability & appearance of schools)

Preschool/daycare:

· Excellent day care facilities noted in Sauble Beach and Wiarton. Smaller facilities in Hepworth and
Allenford.

Primary/elementary:

· Awesome facility in Wiarton for full Peninsula (J-K thru 12) Also excellent facility in Sauble Beach.
· Basic Elementary school in Hepworth ­ none noted in Allenford


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First Impressions Community Exchange
Final Report


High school:
· See above

Comments: The architectural design and outside of the former High School lends itself for retro-fitting into Youth
Centre, Theatre; alternative uses

College/university:

· No college / university noted.

Residents' (young and old) opinions about the quality and availability of the local school
system:

· General sense from Wiarton and Sauble Beach - very pleased with facilities available to their students

Comments: Swings and bike racks lacking in Hepworth elementary school


Rating of adequacy of schools for a community of this size:


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent

Health Care Services

Availability and Apparent Quality of Health Care Facilities:

Hospitals:
· Excellent hospital noted in Wiarton
· Family Health Team in Sauble Beach


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First Impressions Community Exchange
Final Report
Physician and dentist offices and clinics:

· All located in Wiarton, Sauble Beach, none noted in Hepworth
· Allenford ­ Natural Health Clinic

Long-term care and nursing home facilities:

· State of the art facility in Wiarton, marginal facility in Allenford
· None noted for Hepworth and Sauble Beach (not seen)

Other health services:

· Chiropractic care and massage therapy facility noted in Wiarton, Sauble Beach

Rating of the adequacy of Health Services for a community of this size:


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent

Comments:
· Appears to be quite adequate

Social Services

Social services available in community:

· Community Living as well as a Community Employment Resource Centre was noted in Wiarton
· No social services noted in Hepworth, Sauble Beach or Allenford


Availability of not-for-profit organizations and clubs:

· Service clubs well represented in Wiarton, Hepworth and Sauble
Beach.
· Horticultural Societies also appear active in the three main
communities.
· Garden Club did landscaping SHOW outside the community centre in Sauble Beach

Rating of social services for a community of this size:


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent

Comments:

· Community Employment Resource Centre doesn't project a positive image (needs attention)


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First Impressions Community Exchange
Final Report
Emergency Services

Adequacy of fire, ambulance and policing services from the perspective of residents:

· All three were visible with the exception of Allenford and Hepworth
· Nice facilities for Sauble Beach and Wiarton


LOCAL ECONOMY
Downtown, Retail, Industry, Commercial, Professional Services and Tourism

Initial impressions of the health of the local economy:

· Wiarton and Sauble Beach appeared very active and busy, however noting that Sauble Beach would
be seasonal in scope.
· Allenford and Hepworth were considerably weaker­ lacking in basic amenities such as pharmacy and
grocery store
· Hepworth Tim Horton's was quite busy, encouraging people to stop and possible opportunity for
additional niche stores


Downtown Area

Ease of locating the downtown:
· All four communities ­ downtown's easily located and varied in size and amenities. Sauble Beach and
Wiarton gravitates toward beach in terms of "tourist type" commercial activities.

Comments: Directional signage to Sauble Beach's downtown either missing or not obvious

Overall appearance of the downtown area:


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent

· Wiarton, Hepworth and Sauble Beach were somewhat inviting to stop an browse
· Allenford ­ not so much
· All four communities could use a "brightening up" with eye appealing benches, planters, waste
containers and LARGER banners.


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First Impressions Community Exchange
Final Report


NOTEABLES: Veterans Memorial and Mural in Wiarton
Walk ways to off main street parking in Wiarton (opportunity to develop a creative welcoming
place)
Veterans Park in Hepworth
Wiarton Willie footprints on sidewalks


Variety of shopping in the downtown area:


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent

· Quite good in Wiarton and Sauble Beach, but lacking in variety in Hepworth and Allenford

Customer service at businesses visited:


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent

· In both Wiarton and Sauble Beach's customer service was very good as
well as Suntrail Outfitters in Hepworth. Both citizens and clerks were very
helpful and knowledgeable in assisting


Signage in the downtown area:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent


· General speaking signage was poor and banners were too small and too
infrequent
· Wiarton and Sauble Beach- wee bit tired, little eye appeal
· Allenford and Hepworth ­ lacking on all fronts for signage


8
First Impressions Community Exchange
Final Report

Comments: Could use improvement, utilizing a "common look and branding" though-out all four communities on
signs and banners


Window displays in the downtown
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent

· Needs improvement particularly in vacant buildings
· Many of the window displays are tired and uncreative (missing opportunity to entice people to stop)

NOTEABLES: County of Bruce Community Employment Resource Centre very uninviting

Variety and quality of merchandise in the downtown area:


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent

· Basic needs being met certainly in main two centres of Wiarton & Sauble Beach. Hepworth and
Allenford need multi-purpose variety stores


Mix of facilities and services in the Downtown:

· Basically good mix of services, retail and professional in Wiarton
and Sauble Beach
· Other two communities lacking


Quality and availability of parking:

· Excellent parking availability in all four communities, usually 2 hours. Well
signed and free with exception of Sauble Beach (pay meter)


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First Impressions Community Exchange
Final Report
· Wiarton had very good parking behind stores with walk ways that have potential to be more eye
appealing and gathering place (needs benches and murals)
· Passage ways make it a very walkable community and key link to the beach, tourist office and sports
facilities

Quality of lighting:

· Victorian lights in Wiarton very nice ­ perhaps need to carry this type of lighting into other communities

Role and potential of the downtown in tourism:

· Potential in three of the communities ­ they are "transit thru" types of communities with niche type
stores tourist would stop to browse on their way to cottage, beach, ferry

Residential housing mix in downtown:

· Quite good in Wiarton and Sauble Beach certainly with cottages and rental units available. In
Hepworth appeared to be apartment on main corner close to downtown

Desirability of the downtown as a place to live:

· Has potential in certainly 3 out of the 4 with Allenford being the exception

General Information about Overall Retail

Overall mix of retail shopping:
· Quite good in Wiarton and not bad in Sauble Beach. Needs further consideration in Hepworth and
certainly Allenford

Retail goods requiring travel to other communities:
· Children's & men's wear, computer or electronics, jewellers

Missing stores or services that we expected to find locally:
· Local bakeries, ice cream shops, candy ­ niche type stores
· Specialty shops such as motorcycles and bicycling stores

Unusual or unexpected stores or services for a community this size:
· Surprised to see two / three ladies wear stores in Wiarton
· Suntrail Outfitters shop and lifestyles, kitchen and bath design centre in Hepworth
· Scrap booking store and Rankin River in Wiarton

High quality/desirable retail stores in the community (ones we would travel 40 km or more to
patronize):

· Wiarton - Josie's and scrap booking store
· Hepworth- Suntrail Outfitters shop


10
First Impressions Community Exchange
Final Report
Overall Condition of the Retail Sector:

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent


Local Industries

Major industrial sectors in the community:

· Seems to be fair number of industries in fabricating, manufacturing and quarry

Major employers in the community:

· Unknown

Major types of manufacturing in the community:

· Fabricating & Quarry

Major types of primary industry in the community:

· Agricultural and Tourism

Industrial park or serviced land where manufacturers could locate
or expand:
· Two areas identified in Wiarton
· None visible in the other three communities- exception the business centre in Allenford

Apparent dependence on one type of industry?

· Tourism
· Quarry & stone

Are industrial facilities well maintained?
· Unknown

Potential of community as an attractive location for manufacturing development:

· Wiarton Airport under utilized asset for attracting investment


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First Impressions Community Exchange
Final Report
PROFESSIONAL, COMMERCIAL AND GOVERNMENT SERVICES
Professional Services

Convenience of banks and ATMs (location and hours):

· Wiarton had two major banks (Royal and TD Canada Trust) Sauble Beach had RBC. ATM's were
available in some stores and in some cases difficult to find
· No financial facilities in Hepworth or Allenford. Possible ATM's but not seen.

NOTEABLES: Very impressed with the architectural design and façade of Royal Bank in Wiarton


Adequacy of financial services:


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent

Other available professional services:
· Lawyers and accountants, insurance, real estate located in Wiarton, Sauble Beach
· Lawyer located in Allenford at seniors complex
· Funeral service, vets, spa all available either in Wiarton / Sauble Beach

Service gaps:

· Pharmacy (Hepworth and Allenford), Sports Equipment and Repair

Commercial Services

Types of commercial businesses serving the local community (high-speed internet provider
etc.):

· Three service providers appear to be available (BMI,
Sitewaves and Teledynamics)
· Lots of construction providers (paving, painting, building etc)
· Wiarton has local newspaper


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First Impressions Community Exchange
Final Report
Commercial service gaps:

· Did not see dry cleaners


Governmental Services

Location of municipal offices:

· Located in Wiarton on main street downtown
· Good parking and signed public washrooms

Availability and quality of information:
i) Community brochure/guide

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent

· Bruce Peninsula Booklet
· Unaware of South Bruce Peninsula Community Brochure

ii) Business directory

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent

· On-line directory was quite thorough, however fairly limited in scope of information provided (basic
address and phone number only) NO LINKS to their business sites which would have been helpful

iii) Community profile

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent

· On line community profile ­ impressed it showcases all communities but basically a "historical
overview" rather that current information
· The Economic Development profile is "generic" in nature ­ not very detailed. No indication to the
type of industries in municipality ­ number of jobs, socio-economic data
· No real details about communities or enticement to invest or move to the region

Adequacy of information for investment decisions:
· The link to the South Bruce and Sauble Beach Chamber of Commerce provides quite good
information and contacts.
· Links on main Municipal site- quite good


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First Impressions Community Exchange
Final Report
PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE AND PLANNING

Public Infrastructure

Public Transportation:


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent

· Did not see any direct awareness to public transportation although there is taxi service available
according to web site
· Excellent commercial airport perhaps under utilized for investment attraction

Sidewalks:


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent

· Some area in Allenford needs attention / repair
· Very impressed with wide sidewalks in Wiarton and painted Willie paw prints

Streets:


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent

· Allenford; residential streets needed attention


Landscaping, Trees:


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent

· Generally public spaces particularly on main streets were lacking ­ the reason might have been
seasonal


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First Impressions Community Exchange
Final Report
NOTEABLES: Allenford Heritage Plaque/ picnic area
Hepworth Veteran's Park
Wiarton waterfront area


Public Restrooms:


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent

· No apparent public rest rooms with the exception of Wiarton (Signage from the street poor)
· Apparently public rest rooms in beach area in Sauble Beach (Signage was very poor)
· No apparent washrooms in Hepworth or Allenford

Street Signage:


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent

· POTENTIAL AREA FOR IMPROVEMENT ­ utilizing a "standard / common theme or branding and or
colours" in all 4 communities

Pay phones, drinking fountains, benches, etc.:


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent

· Benches were lacking in all four communities and in Wiarton they were not uniform or inviting
· Drinking fountains and pay phones were difficult to find
· Waste containers were not easily identifiable
· No planters were visible

Comments: Potential to have benches, planters, waste containers all in a coordinated theme


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First Impressions Community Exchange
Final Report

Planning

Conflicting land uses?

· No observations

Appropriateness of land use (commercial, residential, green space, etc.):

· Wiarton had an excellent use of waterfront green space for sports complex and amenities
· Sauble Beach was very clean and well maintained


Traffic or pedestrian congestion?

· Not apparent

Are community facilities and infrastructure generally accessible for people with disabilities?

· Overall basically yes ­ might have been some exceptions in Sauble Beach needing a review


TOURISM

Is there a strong tourism sector?

· Absolutely ­ very strong in this area and has development potential as well
· In Wiarton ­ boating could be an increased opportunity with great marina

Community slogan/brand:

· Continuity of brand slogan. Currently confusing brand messaging "Home of Wiarton Willie", "Wiarton
Willie Country", "Ontario's Natural Retreat". Which one?

Is there a well-known attraction or event/festival? Are the events/festivals held annually?

· Certainly Wiarton Willie event in late Winter Groundhog day in February


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First Impressions Community Exchange
Final Report
Community event(s) with potential to attract tourists:

· More winter sports snowmobile racing, cross country skiing races,
snowshoe events
· Sailing regattas' / seadoo races
· Wind surfing / water boarding events
· Para sailing
· Kayaking
· Cycling- Extreme biking
· Motorcycle
· Geocaching- GPS (scavenger hunt)

Potential tourist attraction (natural or man-made):
· See above
· Promote cave exploration
· Bike trails and hiking
· Sand castle building
· Outdoor movie theatres on the beach/marina

Quality and appearance of the attractions:


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent


Underdeveloped attractions?

· Marina and waterfront in Wiarton
· Wiarton Willie museum
· Sauble Beach development of a flea market
· Outdoor store in Hepworth (Suntrail Outfitters)


Availability and quality of facilities serving the needs of visitors (e.g., tourist information
centre):

(Quality of customer service, facilities, signage, marketing material, maps, visibility)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent

Comments:
· Wiarton's Loved historic railway station as tourist centre ­ located close to downtown, Willie's
house and marina/campgrounds excellent
· Signage to tourist centre was not seen in Wiarton
· Sauble Beach Tourist centre closed, not well signed and located in a "trailer" ­ poor signal to main
economic driver for this community. Should be located closer to beach action and be more
permanent in design and structure


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First Impressions Community Exchange
Final Report
Availability and selection of overnight accommodations in the community:

· Good accommodation opportunities in Sauble Beach namely cottage rentals, and motels. Motels in
Wiarton and B&B's as well ­ no significant hotel chain present (i.e.: Comfort Inn)

Availability of facilities to accommodate a conference and/or a large number of visitors?

· Wiarton and Sauble Beach had excellent facilities for larger events.
Hepworth has a nice Legion and Allenford had the curling club.


Quality and accessibility of the public restrooms:


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory
Excellent

· See previous comments

Quality and variety of restaurants:

Quality


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent

Comments:
· Wiarton's Green Door was excellent

Variety


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent

Comments:
· Restaurants in Sauble Beach were not open but appeared to be enticing (Two Chicks and Macbeth's)
· Really enjoyed eating at the Green Door

Recommendations by local residents on where to stay, eat, and visit:

· Sauble Beach; Recommended to go to South Hampton and Walker House
· Encouraged to stay at the Whispering Pines
· Waterview On the Bay was recommended


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First Impressions Community Exchange
Final Report
Restaurants, specialty shops or attractions that would bring you back to this community in the
near future:

· Suntrail Outfitters
· Scrap Booking Store
· Waterfront


CULTURE AND HERITAGE

What events are popular with residents?

· Groundhog Day

Do the residents feel there is a lack of community events?

· Unknown

Does the community have heritage buildings? Are they well maintained?

· Wiarton; Former high school, Royal Bank, Post Office, Train Station, Churches, Houses
· Sauble Beach; not apparent
· Hepworth; Spencer House, Burn's Lodge (Kitchen and Bath Design Centre)
· Allenford; Victorian House, Churches, Stone Veranda House

FAITH/RELIGION

Number, appearance, and selection of religious buildings in the community:

· Excellent selection and appeared in good condition

Architectural or design features of religious buildings visited:

· Very eye appealing and cared for

NOTEABLES: Exceptional Stain glass windows in Allenford ­St. Andrews Presbyterian


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First Impressions Community Exchange
Final Report
Overall impression of religious buildings:


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8.5 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent


RECREATION

Recreation Facilities

Availability of and appearance of parks:


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent

NOTEABLES: Veteran's Memorial Park in Hepworth

Availability and appearance of public recreation facilities:


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Needs Urgent Attention Satisfactory Excellent

NOTEABLES: Wiarton and Sauble recreational facilities were great (Central Complex)
Allenford; Children's playground by the ball park


What do people in this community appear to do for recreation?

· Sauble Beach; Lawn bowling, tennis courts, yoga, mini golf, amusement park, bridge club, studio tour,
golf course
· Wiarton; Ball diamonds, cycling, outdoor swimming, arena, tennis courts, golf
course
· Allenford; Ball park, curling club
· Hepworth; Ball park, flea market, golf course

Surprising recreational facility (private or public) in this community:

· Whispering Pines bike and hiking trails


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First Impressions Community Exchange
Final Report
Recreational activity or facility gaps:

· Location of Amusement park in Sauble Beach ­ bit of a distance to the beach
· Skate Boarding park
· Outdoor Movie Theatre
Suitability of recreational facilities for the following populations:

Overall suitability of recreational facilities Group
(scale of 1 to 10)
5-8 Single Young Adults
7 Young Families
7 Middle Income
9 Senior Citizens
4 Upscale/Professional

Comments: Higher scoring applies to Sauble Beach and Wiarton. Lower Scoring applies to Allenford and
Hepworth. Difficult to rate for winter activities.

USING YOUR SENSES

Tastes (any specialty food item, bakery, restaurant, or candy store to remember?):

· Green Door Restaurant

Smells:

· None noticed

Sounds:

· None noticed

Sights:

· Suntrail Outfitters

Overall environmental health of the community:

· All four communities were clean. Allenford lacked sense of activity and vibrancy.

Any experiences that affected the way the community felt to us:

· Allenford appeared to be a forgotten village with little activity from a business to social point of view.
For a visitor there is little reason to stop.


21
First Impressions Community Exchange
Final Report
WRAP-UP

Was your perception prior to the visit accurate? In what ways was it different?

· Thought Sauble Beach would be busier and impressed at the cleanliness of the beach
· Disappointed a little with the feeling of the downtown in Sauble Beach (expected freshly painted,
colourful and cheery)
· Impressed with Hepworth with outstanding potential for growth

Did the information you collected prior to the visit accurately reflect what you experienced?

· N/A

What is the most outstanding feature of this community?

· Wiarton waterfront and recreational facility
· Schools in Sauble and Wiarton
· Geography and topography
· Health and long term-care facilities

Would you consider this community as a suitable location for a young family?

· Yes

Would you consider this a suitable location for a retired person?

· Yes, depending on the age and needs (may wish to relocate to centre such as Wiarton)

Would you consider this a suitable location for a young single adult?

· No

Would you consider experiencing this community as a tourist?

· Absolutely

Would you consider locating your retail or service business here?

· Yes, definitely perhaps with further consideration/review regarding Allenford

Would you consider locating a manufacturing business here?

· Not likely ­ too far from major transportation routes unless marine oriented


22
First Impressions Community Exchange
Final Report
Fvie positive things about this community

1. Attractive waterfront for Wiarton
2. Tourism ­ only route to the Bruce
3. Captive potential clients to the Bruce
4. Geography and Topography- natural beauty
5. Green spaces and recreational facilities


Potential opportunities available to the community:

1. Willie Country- Capitalize in the whole municipality
2. Outdoor Movie Theatre(s)
3. Expand the waterfront and events relevant to the water
4. Enhancing the walkways and all things leading to the water
5. Artisan community in Allenford


23
First Impressions Community Exchange
Final Report
Five biggest obstacles/challenges facing this community

1. Getting people to stop on route
2. One attractive brand and theme implemented through out the whole community
3. Making each community warm and eye appealing (benches and banners)
4. Make Allenford feel a part of the municipality
5. Lack of municipal service centre in each community

What will you remember most about this community six months from now (positive or
negative)?

· Schools and Health and long term care facilities
· Recreational facilities in Wiarton and Sauble Beach
· Heritage and Historical homes and gardens
· Wiarton waterfront

What things have you observed here that have changed your impression of your own
community?

· Appreciate efforts of service clubs and local organizations in the upkeep of public spaces ­public
meeting spaces and parks

ONE idea we will borrow for use in our own business/community and how we will start to
implement it within the next 72 hours!

· N/A

Other comments:

· All four communities have huge potential if they implement one colour, one theme and one brand
· All four communities need to be eye appealing to get people to stop!


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First Impressions Community Exchange
Final Report
TABLE OF CONTENTS
VISITING TEAM PROFILE...........................................................................................................................................1
PRIOR TO YOUR VISIT ...............................................................................................................................................1
THE "FIVE MINUTE" IMPRESSION............................................................................................................................2
COMMUNITY ENTRANCES ........................................................................................................................................2
HOUSING AND RESIDENTIAL AREAS......................................................................................................................3
EDUCATION, HEALTH, SOCIAL AND EMERGENCY SERVICES............................................................................4
LOCAL ECONOMY ......................................................................................................................................................7
PROFESSIONAL, COMMERCIAL AND GOVERNMENT SERVICES......................................................................12
PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE AND PLANNING........................................................................................................14
TOURISM....................................................................................................................................................................16
CULTURE AND HERITAGE ......................................................................................................................................19
FAITH/RELIGION .......................................................................................................................................................19
RECREATION ............................................................................................................................................................20
USING OUR SENSES ................................................................................................................................................21
WRAP-UP ...................................................................................................................................................................22
First Impressions Community Exchange

South Bruce Peninsula
Allenford, Sauble Beach,
Hepworth and Wiarton


Presented by:
Barbara Burgess & Sue Powell


Prior to the Visit
Expected small rural agricultural communities

Knew that Willie was from Wiarton

Perceived that Wiarton is the gateway to the Bruce
Peninsula

Rugged landscape and beautiful water / lakes

Major tourist region ­ Sauble Beach

First Impressions Report


The `Five Minute' Impression
Minute'
Hepworth, Sauble Beach and Wiarton were active,
clean, busy communities with pride and lots of
potential


Allenford very quiet ­ virtually little-to no activity
(few locals/visitors). Appears tired looking and lacks
retail shops/restaurants

First Impressions Report


1
Community Entrances
OBSERVATIONS:
Allenford, Hepworth, Sauble Beach and Wiarton
Inconsistency across all four communities ­ in some cases no signs
except Provincial signage
"Wiarton Willie Country"
"Voted Best Beach in Ontario"
"The Gateway"
"Ontario's Natural Retreat"

Allenford had no community signs

NOTABLES:
Wiarton had a very impressive, large gateway sign
Sauble's entrance sign to the beach was unique

OPPORTUNITIES:
Develop a brand (implement brand on all signs, gateways, brochures,
marketing materials and events)
First Impressions Report


First Impressions Report


Housing & Residential Areas

Variety & quality homes
Price ranges looked very reasonable
Stately homes well maintained with pride of ownership
Good mix of newer homes and sub-divisions noted
Some run down properties
Apartment buildings located in all four communities


First Impressions Report


2
Housing and Residential Areas

OBSERVATIONS:
Sidewalks, lighting and roads in good condition
Allenford could use a bit of sidewalk work
No visible sign of public transportation


NOTABLES:
Wiarton's senior complex was very impressive
Hepworth's subdivision


COMMENTS:
Senior's housing in Allenford appearance
was unappealing


First Impressions Report


Housing & Residential Areas
NOTABLES:
Wiarton had beautiful Victorian lights in the downtown
All 4 communities had good green spaces
Playground facilities for young children were excellent


COMMENTS:
Fairly good mix overall, perhaps lacking in the single young adult
demographic (Allenford and Hepworth)
Wiarton- Amenities & services make it a more appealing centre

First Impressions Report


Education
Excellent day care facilities noted in Sauble Beach & Wiarton. Smaller
facilities in Hepworth and Allenford
Exceptional J-K to Grade 12 in Wiarton for entire Bruce Peninsula
Excellent public school facility in Sauble Beach
Basic Elementary school in Hepworth ­ none noted in Allenford


First Impressions Report


3
Education
COMMENTS:
Architectural design of old High School lends itself for retro-fitting into
Youth Centre, Theatre, Artist studios, etc.
No college and university noted
Swings and bike racks missing in Hepworth Elementary School


First Impressions Report


Health
Excellent hospital noted in Wiarton, Family Health Team in Sauble Beach
Physicians, Dentist, Chiropractic and Massage therapy in Wiarton, Sauble
Beach
Allenford- Natural Health Clinic


Long Term Care
State of the art facility in Wiarton,
marginal facility in Allenford
No long-term care facilities seen in
Hepworth and Sauble Beach
Health Services appears to be
quite adequate


First Impressions Report


Social & Emergency Services
Community Living & Community Employment Resource Centre in Wiarton
No social services noted in Hepworth, Sauble Beach
or Allenford


OBSERVATION:
Community Employment Resource Centre does not
project a positive image

Emergency Services:
All three visible with the exception of Allenford
and Hepworth
Nice facilities for Sauble Beach and Wiarton


First Impressions Report


4
Social & Emergency Services
Service clubs well represented in Wiarton, Hepworth and Sauble Beach
Horticultural Societies also appear active in the three main communities
Garden Club did landscaping SHOW outside the community centre in
Sauble Beach


First Impressions Report


Local Economy - Downtown
Wiarton & Sauble Beach appeared very active and busy, noting that both tend to
gravitate towards "tourist type" commercial activities
Allenford & Hepworth were lacking basic amenities; i.e. pharmacy & grocery store
Tim Horton's in Hepworth was quite busy
-encourages people to stop
All four communities ­ downtown's easily located and varied
in size and amenities

OBSERVATION:
Directional signage to Sauble Beach's downtown either missing
or not obvious


First Impressions Report


Local Economy - Downtown

Overall appearance of the downtown area
Wiarton, Hepworth and Sauble Beach were inviting to stop and browse
Allenford ­ not so much


OBSERVATION:
All four communities could use a `brightening up' with eye appealing
benches, planters, waste containers and LARGER banners


First Impressions Report


5
Local Economy - Downtown
NOTABLES:

Veterans Memorial and Mural in Wiarton
Veterans Park in Hepworth
Wiarton Willie footprints on sidewalks
Wiarton and Sauble Beach customer service was very good
as well as Sun Trails in Hepworth
Citizens and clerks very helpful & knowledgeable


First Impressions Report


Local Economy - Downtown
Variety and quality of merchandise
Basic needs being met in Wiarton & Sauble Beach
Hepworth and Allenford need a variety of stores

Mix of facilities and services
Basically good mix of services, retail and professional in
Wiarton & Sauble Beach
Lacking in Hepworth and Allenford

Quality and availability of parking
Excellent parking availability in all four communities, usually 2 hr limit
Well signed and free with exception of Sauble Beach (meters)

Lighting:
Victorian lights in Wiarton very nice!

NOTABLE:
Wiarton had very good parking behind stores with
walk ways. Passage-ways make it a very walkable community with a key link to
the beach, tourist office and sports facilities!


First Impressions Report


Local Economy - Downtown
OBSERVATIONS:
Generally, signage was poor and banners seemed
too small and infrequent
Allenford and Hepworth - lacking on all fronts for signage
Wiarton and Sauble Beach- lacked curb appeal
Window display needs improvement particularly in vacant
buildings
Many of current window displays not up-to-date and
uncreative (missing opportunity to entice people to stop)
County of Bruce Community Employment Resource Centre
very uninviting


First Impressions Report


6
Local Economy - Downtown
OPPORTUNITIES:
Walkways to off-main street parking in Wiarton-bright lights, benches, murals,
flowers, waste containers


Victorian lighting (Wiarton) would be an assets in other communities
Develop a "common look and branding" though-out all four communities

First Impressions Report


Local Economy - Downtown

Role and potential of the downtown in tourism
Potential in 3 communities ­ all are "transit thru" communities.
Nice niche type stores would encourage tourist to stop and shop!

Residential housing mix in downtown
Quite good in Wiarton and Sauble Beach certainly with cottages
and rental units available. In Hepworth, apartments appeared to
be on main corner close to downtown

Desirability of the downtown as a place to live
Has a potential in certainly 3 out of the 4 with Allenford being the
exception


First Impressions Report


Local Economy - Retail
Overall mix of retail shopping
Quite good in Wiarton, not as good in Sauble Beach
Lacking in Hepworth as well as in Allenford

Retail goods requiring travel to other communities (Wiarton)
Lacking children's & men's wear, computer or electronics, jewellers

Missing stores or services (Wiarton)
Local bakeries, ice cream shop, candy ­ niche type stores
Specialty shop such as motorcycles and bicycling stores

Unusual or unexpected stores or services
Pleasantly surprised to see two ­ three ladies wear stores in Wiarton
Scrap booking store and Rankin River in Wiarton
Sun Trail Adventure Shop & Lifestyles, Kitchen and Bath Design
centre in Hepworth

High quality/desirable retail stores
Wiarton - Josie's and scrap booking store
Hepworth ­ Sun Trail Adventure shop


First Impressions Report


7
Local Economy - Industries
Major industrial sectors in the community:
Seems to be fair number of industries in fabricating,
manufacturing and quarry
Major types of manufacturing in the community:
Fabricating & quarry

Major types of primary industry in the community:
Agricultural and tourism

Industrial park or serviced land could locate or expand
Two area identified in Wiarton
None visible in the three communities - exception the
business centre in Allenford

Apparent dependence on one type of industry
Tourism
Quarry & stone

Potential of community as an attractive location for
manufacturing development
Wiarton Airport under utilized asset for attracting investment


First Impressions Report


Professional, Commercial &
Government Services
Convenience of banks and ATMs:
Wiarton - RBC & TD Canada Trust
Sauble Beach had RBC. ATM's were available in some stores
and in some cases difficult to find
No financial facilities in Hepworth or Allenford ­ perhaps ATM's

NOTABLE:
The architectural design and façade of Royal Bank in Wiarton

Other available professional services:
Lawyers and accountants, insurance, real estate located in Wiarton, Sauble Beach
Lawyer located in Allenford at seniors complex
Funeral service, vets, spa all available either in Wiarton / Sauble Beach

Service gaps:
Pharmacy (Hepworth and Allenford), Sport Equipment and Repair

Location of municipal offices:
Located in Wiarton on main street downtown
Good parking and signed public washrooms


First Impressions Report


Public Infrastructure
Public transportation not readily seen, taxi service indicated
on web site
Impressed with wide sidewalks in Wiarton
Some residential roads in Allenford needs attention/ repair
Hepworth Veteran's Park, green spaces in Sauble and Wiarton waterfront area
very inviting
Public restrooms were noted in Wiarton (signage poor from the street) and beach
area in Sauble Beach, none visible in Hepworth or Allenford


OPPORTUNITIES:
Benches lacking in all four communities; need more benches, uniform
and inviting
Wiarton - Waste containers should be easily identifiable
Recommend planters on sidewalks/ hanging baskets
Beautification of walkways


First Impressions Report


8
Public Infrastructure
Wiarton - excellent use of waterfront green space for sports complex and
amenities
Sauble Beach was very clean and well maintain
Allenford, Sauble Beach and Wiarton all had public facilities


First Impressions Report


Tourism
Strong tourism sector but still room for development

OPPORTUNITIES:
Wiarton- enhance marina and waterfront
Sauble/Wiarton- water sports/events, sand castle building
Geocaching
Increase winter sports
Promote cave exploration
Promoting flea markets, outfitters store, bike
and hiking trails
Outdoor theatres on the beach/marina


First Impressions Report


Tourism
Underdeveloped attraction:
Marina and waterfront in Wiarton
Wiarton Willie museum
Sauble Beach development of a flea market

NOTEABLES:
Wiarton's has a lovely historic railway station
as tourist centre ­ signage was not seen
Tourist centre closed in Sauble Beach
Wiarton and Sauble Beach had excellent
facilities for larger events
Hepworth has a nice Legion and Allenford has
the curling club
Wiarton's Green Door restaurant was excellent
Restaurants in Sauble Beach were not open but
appeared to be enticing
(Two Chicks and MacBeth's)
First Impressions Report


9
Heritage and Culture

Events popular with residents:
Groundhog Day

Heritage buildings:

Wiarton: Former high school, Royal Bank, Post Office,
Train station, Churches, Houses
Hepworth: Spencer house, Burn's Lodge (Kitchen and Bath
Design centre)
Allenford: Victorian House, Churches, Stone Veranda House
Sauble Beach: none observed


First Impressions Report


Faith and Religion

Religious buildings in the community
Excellent selection and faith represented


Architectural or design features
Very attractive, unique, appealing and well cared for


NOTEABLES:
Exceptional Stain glass windows in Allenford- St. Andrews
Presbyterian


First Impressions Report


Recreation
Excellent appearance of parks
Veteran's Memorial Park in Hepworth

Very good appearance of public recreation facilities
Wiarton and Sauble both recreational facilities were
great (Central Complex)
Allenford's children's playground by the ball park was exceptional

Recreation
Sauble Beach: Lawn bowling, tennis courts, yoga, Mini golf, amusement park, bridge club,
studio tour, golf course
Wiarton: Ball diamonds, cycling, outdoor swimming, arena, tennis courts, golf course
Allenford: Ball park, curling club
Hepworth: Ball park, flea market, golf course

Surprising recreational facility
Whispering Pines with mountain bike trails and hiking trails

Recreational activity or facility gaps
Location of Amusement park in Sauble Beach
Skate Boarding park
Outdoor Theatre
First Impressions Report


10
Using Our Senses

Tastes:
­ Green Door Restaurant, yummy food and great
customer service
Sights:
­ Sun Trails Outfitters, great selection of high quality merchandise
­ Georgian Bay - waterfront
Overall environmental health of the community:
­ All four communities were very clean
On the outside, Allenford appeared to be forgotten village with little
activity from a business to social point of view. For a visitor, there is little
reason to stop.


First Impressions Report


The most
outstanding feature...
feature...
Sauble Beach - impressed at the cleanliness of the
beach
Impressed with Hepworth- outstanding potential for
growth
Wiarton - waterfront and recreational facility
Schools - in Sauble and Wiarton
Natural environment - geography and topography
Health and long term-care facilities in Wiarton

First Impressions Report


Five positive things...
things...

1. Attractive Waterfront for Wiarton
2. Tourism ­ only route to the Bruce
3. Captive potential clients to the Bruce
4. Geography and Topography ­ natural beauty
5. Green spaces
6. Recreational facilities


First Impressions Report


11
Five biggest challenges...
challenges...

1. Getting visitors to stop on route
2. Developing one brand and theme throughout
the municipality
3. Making each community warm, appealing
and inviting (benches and banners)
4. Better integration of Allenford as apart of the
municipality (website)
5. More accessibility of municipal services in
each community

First Impressions Report


Five potential opportunities...
opportunities...

1. Willie Country ­ Capitalize throughout
the municipality
2. Outdoor Theatre(s)
3. Expand the waterfront and events
4. Enhancing the walkways
5. Artisan or creative arts community

First Impressions Report


Community Brand

Develop a brand/slogan


First Impressions Report


12
First Impressions Community Exchange
Report-Back
Report-
Allenford, Hepworth, Sauble Beach and
Wiarton Exchange


Thank you!
Nancy, Barb & Sue

August 14th, 2008


13