Minutes of PaBIA Directors’ Meeting (via Zoom)
Date: May 6, 2025
Directors participating: Trudy Irvine, Mike Berton, Cath Fairlie, Hilde Clark, David Sharpe, Mary Thomson, Hanna Willis, KaDe Findlay, Emma Manners.
Secretary-Treasurer: Elise Findlay
GBB Representative: Emma Berton
Ward 3 Councillor: Earl Manners
Regrets: Will Lawler
Land Acknowledgement: Emma Berton
Land Acknowledgment provided by Emma Berton.
Township of the Archipelago Update: Earl Manners
Earl Manners shared an update on behalf of the Township, highlighting recent efforts to support local businesses, environmental initiatives, and infrastructure improvements. He addressed growing national sentiment in Canada and encouraged proactive, respectful communication with all residents. Key topics included the Township’s commitment to water quality monitoring, progress on EV charging infrastructure, and the preservation of the Pointe au Baril Lighthouse.
June Meeting Arrangements & Agenda: Dave Sharpe, Mary Thompson, Elise Findlay
The Board discussed plans for the June Meeting, including logistics, proposed invitees, and agenda topics. The afternoon session will feature brief updates from local organizations, with a request for advance “headlines” to help streamline the discussion.
Safety Commitee Update: Cath Fairlie
Cath provide the Board with an update from the Safety Commitee on fire and water safety planning for summer 2025. Last year, 13 new permanent markers were installed, with another 13 already purchased and currently stored at Desmasdons, awaiting installation when capacity allows. A smaller buoy intended for the entrance to Hemlock has been purchased, and Cath will provide updates on its placement progress. Efforts continue to monitor and replace wooden markers damaged in key areas, especially around Hemlock Channel, with a focus on improving visibility and durability. Tom Cavers has been maintaining and updating the online map to reflect the installation of permanent markers. On the fire safety front, a new Wajax fire pump has been ordered and received, with plans for installation in May. The fire pump replacement program is nearing completion, with four new units in place and only one remaining to be replaced after this year. Dave has contacted Bruce Tiffin regarding his potential role in taking over the annual maintenance of the fire pumps. Additionally, Cath updated the Board on the upcoming summer safety article series, scheduled to launch mid-June, aimed at providing cottage-specific fire safety information.
GBA April AGM Overview: Hanna Willis
The Board received an update on the Georgian Bay Association’s April AGM, which included the introduction of new Executive Director Meredith Denning as well as a formal farewell tooutgoing President Liz Phillips. The meeting covered audited financials, committee updates, and continued focus on key issues like phragmites. With new leadership in place, the Board noted this is a timely opportunity for PaBIA to strengthen its relationship with the GBA and ensure strong value from the partnership.
Other Business:
Jr Regatta Trophy for Girls Single Canoe: The Girls Single Canoe Trophy will need a new sponsor for 2025. Elise will collaborate with Will Lawler to reach out to potential donors.
U.S. Member Communications Strategy: The Board discussed PaBIA’s communication approach concerning US members amid current political tensions, emphasizing PaBIA’s role as a community association committed to keeping Pointe au Baril a welcoming place for everyone.
August Annual Meeting Speaker: Dave Sharpe confirmed that David Sweetnam, Executive Director for the Georgian Bay Forever, will be the guest speaker at PaBIA’s Annual Meeting in August.
Membership Renewal Numbers: Mike and Elise updated the Board on the 2025 PaBIA membership renewal status, noting that total membership numbers remain consistent with 2024. Mike will contact local realtors to remind them of the PaBIA membership realtor gift program, and Elise will provide Mike with a list of members who have not renewed from 2024 to 2025 to facilitate follow-up outreach.
Meeting adjourned.
Recorded by:
Elise Findlay
Secretary-Treasurer