Click here to listen to the interview. 
The interview starts at the 8:20 minute mark. If you have feedback on any of the topics discussed, I am always open to hear your thoughts on local issues.

LP

The Martin Prosperity Institute has ranked Guelph as Santa’s # 1 Choice city in North America!   Read the stats here — http://martinprosperity.org/insights/insight/dear-santa-whos-your-city.

Take that Williamsport, PA!

LP

http://www.npr.org/2011/07/23/138622229/lollipops-pacifiers-for-bar-patrons

One-way traffic and parking on-street as construction continues
in Market Square

GUELPH, ON, August 12, 2011 – Starting tomorrow evening,
vehicles will be able to travel on Carden Street while construction continues on
the rink, water feature, pavilion, seating areas, trees and landscaping in
Guelph’s Market Square.

“Crews are still working on site, so we ask that people drive
carefully in the area,” says Richard Henry, City Engineer. “Drivers will be able
to travel one way, eastbound, between Wilson Street and Wyndham Street, and
there are more than 30 parking spaces in front of the shops and
restaurants.”

When Guelph’s Market Square, rink, water feature and pavilion
are completed in December, Carden Street will accommodate two-way traffic and
parking.

“We are very excited to see the square taking shape,” says Ian
Panabaker, the City’s Corporate Manager of Downtown Renewal. “At this point we
can begin to see how big and beautiful it will be when it’s finished. This
December, we get to skate in the square for the very first time and people will
keep coming downtown, year after year, to skate in the winter and cool off in
the summer. It will be the perfect spot to enjoy a festival, special event, or
to just hang out.”

The City plans to pour the concrete for the rink next month, and
is already working on the oval-shaped glass pavilion which will house public
washrooms, lockers, seating and a drinking fountain. The pavilion will also
store the zamboni and the controls for the rink and water feature.

“Unfortunately, initial submissions to build the pavilion
exceeded the approved budget,” add Henry. “We had to re-work the design of the
building and re-tender this part of the project, and that’s set us back by about
three months on the square.”

The City is already making plans for a grand opening and other
events to welcome people to Guelph’s Market Square. Event announcements and
project updates will be available atguelph.ca/construction.

ABOUT MARKET SQUARE
Guelph’s Market
Square is designed to create a beautiful community space that will serve as a
year-round setting for civic and cultural events and daily shopping. In front of
City Hall, the square will feature an outdoor rink and water feature, seating
areas, trees and landscaping and an oval-shaped glass pavilion to house
washrooms, lockers, seating and a water fountain. The rink is funded in part by
Federal and Provincial Recreations Infrastructure Funds. As part of the project,
the City is completely renewing Carden Street including watermains, sewers,
sidewalks, landscaping and a new paver brick surface. Construction started in
August 2010 and will continue through December 2011.

- 30 -

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Richard Henry, City
Engineer/General Manager
Engineering Services, Planning
& Building, Engineering and Environment

T 519-822-1260 x 2248
E richard.henry@guelph.ca

Ian Panabaker, Corporate Manager
Downtown Renewal
Office of the CAO

T 519-822-1260  x 2475
E ian.panabaker@guelph.ca

–
Stacey Hare, Senior Communications
and Issues Management Coordinator
T 519-822-1260 x
2611
C 519-829-0999
E
stacey.hare@guelph.ca

Let’s face it, no one likes construction (except perhaps construction workers!).   Add hot weather and unforeseen delays, and it’s easy for emotions to boil over.    I have been following the commentary that has flowed from a recent email by a downtown merchant naming a city staff member, and the subsequent response that erupted from my response asking him to apologize.

The exchange of email is often an ineffective means of communication — to express humour, response, and for ongoing dialogue.   Recognizing this, I spoke to Mr. Black last week in person.  The two of us came away agreeing on a number of key points, including the need for ongoing communication and a speedy conclusion to the construction and a grand re-opening of the street.     He’s a nice guy and we had a pleasant conversation.

As far as I am concerned, the matter was concluded. 

LP

LP

There is a serial thief at work near Water/Cedar St in Old University who has been active for at  least a week (starting approx a week ago).

Their typical target is an unlocked car.  They will rummage every nook and cranny, and leave all items   strewn about, and will take any valuables that they can walk away with such as GPS/Radios, wallets, glasses (even Perscription),  etc.

If we can  help spread the word perhaps this person will be caught. All who are affected  are also encouraged to report to the Guelph Police Service your loss and when  it occured.

Let’s keep an eye out, lock your vehicle, and report any suspicious activity … thanks.  LP

Further information go to:

http://riverrun.ca/whatson/index.cfm?fuseaction=drilldown&itemID=1261

Burcher has represented the City of Guelph at the FCM national level since 2006.