Black River-Matheson received some very good news yesterday (Feb 23/09) when Apollo Gold announced success in obtaining $70M of financing to begin their open pit mining and milling operations in March and April. In light of the economic crisis facing everyone, this positive announcement couldn’t have come at a better time! Congratulations to Apollo Gold, and thank you!
In my 2007-2008 “years in review” report I identified eight businesses that had opened or had plans to open in Black River-Matheson communities. I forgot a few others that I should have mentioned; Sabrina Bernier, a Dental Hygienist, opened her doors for business in Matheson in September, 2008 and a diner and convenience store have opened in Holtyre. With the eight mentioned in my earlier report, that makes 11 businesses that have chosen to open or expand in our Township. Now with Apollo Gold going into full production, we have much to be thankful for. Maybe prayers do work?
The “bad” part I refer to are the serious health problems that have beset me and two of our Councillors. Unfortunately, because of his health problems, Councillor Dan Boucher has submitted his resignation to the Township.
Councillor Boucher was one of two Councillors with previous Council experience. He always presented himself well during council debates and had the uncanny knack of being able to home in on the very heart of an issue under discussion. His wise counsel and excellent grasp of issues will be sadly missed. I wish him well.
I had reconstructive foot surgery on January 16th that has immobilized me during recovery at our son’s home in Ottawa. I must remain completely off my feet. So far I have had five casts replaced approximately every two weeks. On March 3rd I will be receiving another cast and x-rays taken. I should have a better idea of what to expect next.
The questionable part has to do with the law, called The Municipal Act that rules how Ontario Municipal Councils operate. One of the rules states that municipal business may not be conducted electronically. What this means is that the common practice of using teleconferencing (the telephone) to participate at, for example, a budget meeting is not allowed.
For this year’s budget (2009) as I was unable to participate by telephone, I was unable to provide any input during budget deliberations. But before my surgery, I did send council and staff a number of budget suggestions for their consideration.
Regards, Mike Milinkovich
