Councillor McCann Meeting Report (September 3, 2024)

Aboard The Pearl Mist
On Tuesday, August 20, 2024 I had a wonderful opportunity to board the Pearl Mist to meet staff and enjoy a tour. I attended with Jeff Thom, our new Economic Development Officer for Parry Sound and with Bob Corrigan, Harbour Master.  It was a first-hand experience to witness the staff’s hospitality.  Parry Sound is one of their favourite ports.  It has been not only a relief, but also a remarkable conclusion to the quandary of not being able to berth at the Town Dock.  Thank you to staff and all those involved in finding a solution.  I was informed on Sunday afternoon that Parry Sound is indeed on their schedule for next year’s cruise season.  We have learned about the economic benefit in hosting the Pearl Mist.  Even on this last stay on Sunday, cruise staff dropped some $700 in town shopping for needs.  My wife and I were on the Town Dock at the time when we noticed Pearl Mist staff on foot returning with three large pizzas... it was almost enough to make me stop, turn around and join them!!


West Parry Sound Community Services Fund Raising
I would take this opportunity to say thank you for the public’s continued support of the West Parry Sound Community Services cans and bottles redemption fundraising program.  We have drop-off bins at Sobeys and at the MacFarlane Transfer Station.  Over the last couple of years we noticed a great number of redeemables mixed in with other containers for recycling and we would encourage the residents of Parry Sound and also of Archipelago sharing the MacFarlane location to separate those redeemables and drop them into our own bins.  It’s amazing how well and quickly these add up.  Community Support Services offers a number of services to the West District at large.  Since January of 2022, we have raised just over $11,000.  We are very grateful to the public!


Back To School
I would extend best wishes to students returning to school this week.  From Junior Kintergarten to post secondary levels, all the best in your studies and career ambitions.  It’s also a good time to ask motorists to be extra mindful when driving.  Too many drivers are in a rush, running yellow and even red lights.  You really don’t get to your destination in any significant amount of time sooner, plus you save gas, wear and tear on your vehicle and most importantly, save lives.  Wishing the best to students heading back to school, college, university and beyond.

The Community Engaged
Town of Parry Sound Staff, Mayor and Councillors have all been very busy this summer speaking to concerned citizens regarding the Waubuno Street Bridge.  Regardless on how the voting turns out tonight, I want to congratulate these citizens for engaging in this matter, coming forth with great passion, and organizing and rallying for support. It speaks to a community that cares and loves our town very much.  Thanks to everyone for their input.