The Council meeting of November 5 was called to order at 6 p.m. by Deputy Mayor Joshua Rayment, who requested a motion to adopt the agenda. Two additions were made under correspondence: a letter from the County regarding the Rural Intermunicipal Framework Agreement and a letter from a resident and business owner concerning the recent Primus outage. Councillor Rob Snow made the motion, and it was carried.
Councillor Martin moved to approve the minutes of the October 15 regular council meeting, and Councillor Snow followed with a motion to approve the minutes of the October 15 Organizational Meeting of Council. Councillor Pulyk raised concerns about some statements in the minutes, but after clarification, both motions were carried.
Several delegations were heard during the meeting. Dawn Riley, Director of Special Projects for the FOCUS Society for Support Services, discussed a new transportation service pilot launching in December. “This service aims to improve mobility and access for our community members, especially those who need it most,” Riley said.
Library Manager Stuart Pauls and Board Member Richard Yaceyko from the Vermilion Library provided updates on the facility, including the installation of a new elevator and expanding programs like the Free Tax Clinics in partnership with FCSS. Yaceyko highlighted their financial outlook, noting a 4.6% total increase in the library’s budget. “We are requesting an additional $12,875 from the Town of Vermilion to help offset costs after reducing administrative expenses by 6%,” he explained.
Representatives from the Vermilion Skating Club, Club President Brooke Wasylishen, and Coach Rebecca Zajic, raised concerns about the 2024 ice schedule, which moved their Monday practices to the Vermilion Arena. Zajic highlighted significant issues, including cold conditions and safety concerns in the facility’s changing rooms. “Our club has grown from 20 to over 100 members, and we now have a waitlist for CanSkate,” she said, emphasizing the club’s need for suitable practice conditions.
Deputy Mayor Rayment acknowledged their concerns and reiterated that the decision was administrative rather than a Council matter. “I’ve been berated for attending one of your practices, but I was there to see your legitimate struggles, not as a platitude,” Rayment said. “I walked around, saw the tight spaces, and understood your challenges.”
Councillor Snow echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that their visits were genuine efforts to address the issue. “We didn’t just go out there to collect votes or show the community we were present,” he said. “We wanted to see the challenges for ourselves. It was eye-opening to see so many kids engaged on the ice. We’re committed to working with you to find a solution.”
Councillor Pulyk acknowledged that some decisions had unintended consequences for the Skating Club. “While Vermilion is fortunate to have two ice surfaces, the arena is outdated and extremely cold,” he said, highlighting the need for facility improvements in the future.
During public commentary, resident Roger Salt expressed frustration with Primus over their handling of a recent service outage. “Their response was outrageous,” Salt said. “I’ve sent emails to each councillor, detailing my concerns and suggestions. Primus needs to be held accountable.” He also shared his experience as an IT professional, offering insights on improving future responses.
Richard Yaceyko returned to voice concerns about inadequate snow removal and ice buildup in his cul-de-sac. “The pooling water freezes into thick ice, making it dangerous and difficult to navigate,” he explained.
New business included a letter from Kiddie Oasis Indoor Playground President Pam Cannan, requesting a reduction in their rental rates at the Vermilion Regional Centre. Cannan explained that the annual 4% rate increase was becoming unsustainable for the non-profit organization. “We want to keep our memberships affordable for families while continuing to offer valuable services to the community,” she wrote. Cannan highlighted the organization’s partnerships with VIBE and child rehabilitation groups, which have enriched the community and drawn families from surrounding areas.
Council discussed the request and accepted it as information.
Councillor Pulyk moved for the first reading of an amendment to Bylaw 29-2010, which currently limits the Deputy Mayor’s term to four months. The amendment would allow Council to set the term length as they see fit. The motion passed, as did the second reading, moved by Councillor Snow.
Councillor Kevin Martin moved to approve the AMWWP Grant Application, which was also carried.
Committee reports and correspondence were reviewed, including letters from the Vermilion & District Chamber of Commerce and Vermilion Minor Hockey Association. The latter thanked the Town for early access to arena ice, which allowed them to host a successful U11 showcase and celebrate International Women’s Hockey Day. “Thanks to your support, we were able to host multiple games and a special event for 60 young female hockey players,” wrote Association President Sean Tennant.
The meeting concluded with a closed session. Minutes are available on the Town’s website. Residents are encouraged to attend Council meetings in person or via Zoom to stay informed with all the communication at Town Council meetings.
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