Councillor McCann Meeting Report (October 17, 2023)

Parry Sound Public Library Monthly Board Meeting
The Parry Sound Public Library Monthly Board Meeting was held, Wednesday morning, October 11, 2023, in person at the library.  As I was on vacation last week, I was not able to attend the meeting but can report on it. There was a review of the Draft 2024 Library Budget, and there was the acceptance and the approval of the Treasurer’s Report for the month of September, 2023. There was a review of a Library Capital Wish-List and some of the items on the list discussed included the possibility of an elevator or lift, replacing or repairing the building's siding, accessibility improvements for upstairs wheel chair navigation, an additional multi-person mute-box and replacements and/or upgrades to both the public and staff computers. It was noted that a sound system in the auditorium would be a great asset. The library conducted a survey with interesting and encouraging results returned. While the majority of respondents were satisfied with the library hours, a significant percentage asked for more evening hours. When asked, “What is the most valuable library service to you?” most indicated that borrowing books and other materials was the most important.  Second, was a response to liking the library programs for children. The respondents added that they would like to see more films for seniors, local author events, adult creative writing programs and more weekly events. Finally, as always, there was continued reviewing of policies.


Parry Sound Enjoys Favourable Reputation
Last week my wife and I had a mini-vacation in Niagara Falls. As we here in the West Parry Sound Area regard tourism as a substantial and significant benefit I always find it interesting to observe how other towns and cities respond and treat their visitors. We enjoyed many favourable encounters and conversations with business operators and individual citizens. We always felt welcomed. In those conversations we were asked from time to time where we were from. One mentions "Parry Sound" and people immediately respond expressing their knowledge and love for our area. They have visited here. Some have come up year after year to the family cottage, and they seem to know about our own attractions! They all commented on our area's beauty. I just felt it was important to express here at Council how well we are regarded and the wonderful reputation we have.


12th Annual Be A Santa To A Senior
The West parry Sound District Community Support Services is once again inviting the public at large to participate in the "Be A Santa To A Senior". This year's event marks the 12th Anniversary. Support Services is once again asking for help through this traditional fundraising campaign to bring cheer and lovely gifts to approximately 100 seniors throughout the District. Please contact this agency within the next few weeks to indicate your interest in supporting this initiative. Call (705) 746-5602 or visit them online at https://www.parrysoundsupportservices.ca/site/home. This initiative has become more important from year to year with rising costs, income that does not keep up and continued isolation and loneliness. Many of our seniors face hardship all year. We hope you can help by focusing on their wellness and happiness. On Saturday, December 2, 2023 between 9:00 am and 1:30 pm you can drop off your items at Georgian Lanes Entertainment, 58 Bowes Street, Parry Sound. Financial donations are greatly accepted by way of an e-transfer sent to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  Make sure to indicate in the Message Box that this is a donation and include your post mailing address so that the agency can send a tax receipt. Cash, cheque or gift cards can be dropped off at the agency's office, Monday through Friday at 21 Belvedere Avenue, back of Belvedere Heights building. Once again this event is sponsored in part by the Parry Sound North Star.


Let's Bowl And Have Breakfast
The West Parry Sound District Community Support Services is holding a fund raiser on Saturday morning, December 2, 2023 with Breakfast served at 9:30 and 10:30 and Bowling at 11:00 and 1:30. This is for all ages. The $60.00 per person registration includes Breakfast and Bowling, with teams made of six members. There is also a Silent Auction being held. This is in support of Community Support Services.