Originally written for Port Rowan Good News during Noel Haydt’s 2014–2018 term as Ward 1 Councillor. Published here from the original archived document; spelling and wording have been preserved.

March Daylight Savings Not Only Unpleasant Time Change in Norfolk

When should Council meetings start? Our regular Council meeting time has been moved up to a three o’clock start. Two o’clock when we have our monthly Board of Heath meeting. The start time can also be changed at the Mayor’s call (often with very little notice given to Council members). July 3rd was a nine am start.

Late to the Show

Many of us here in Norfolk have work, family, or other obligations that last until five o’clock or later. Shouldn’t we be given the best opportunity to keep an eye on Council happenings? Apparently not. Even worse, if you live in a rural area you were at a disadvantage because Council meetings only appeared on cable or you’d have to fork out $20 to pick up a DVD copy of the meeting. Thankfully, I worked with staff to have at least have Council meetings put on YouTube…but that’s only useful if you have decent internet, of course.

It’s Raining…Paper?

Our agenda package for July 3rd was minted at Two. Hundred. Thirty-Three. pages. This could end up being an 8 hour Council meeting. We typically receive our agenda packages late Friday afternoons. We then have Monday to ask questions of staff before the Tuesday Council meeting. No such “privilege” when Monday is a Holiday. Thinking about getting a thorough review of all materials and getting more information from or questioning staff? Keep thinking.

Let’s Spread the Love…and Utilities Arrears?

Last week I had brought forward a motion whereby landlords would have been responsible for their delinquent tenant’s water and waste water bills.  Each year, these bills work out to roughly $100,000 per year (!) and the deficiency is covered by the other rate payers (!!!).  Norfolk County has one of the highest, if not the highest water and waste water bills in the province.  Since 2001, municipalities have had the choice to add the unpaid debt to the owner’s tax bill to collect arrears.  Norfolk County is one of the last hangers-on where tenants and landlords enjoy this free ride as most municipalities have implemented a 100% collection method.  Staff had supported this 100% collection option as well. Council decided against it, with me as the only one in support.

The Haydt of Quick Replies

During a water and waste water budget session several years ago, Council decided to increase the holding tank rate over 400%.  I returned over 150 emails in three days and spent a week of returning calls following that poor decision.  The Causeway Bridge issue has blown my response times substantially; I simply cannot keep up to the demand.  I am looking for answers on how this Causeway issue could have been prevented. Although I am still unable to obtain a copy of the 2018 Engineer’s Assessment Report, I have been able to see the 2016 Report; it called for immediate repairs and a 1-5 year major rehabilitation.  It is unclear why this important link was pushed ahead to 2024 during our budget deliberations.

What’s Next for Noel?

Next year will mark the 20th year that I’ve run my own business. I have also grown my farming operation considerably in the past four years.  I tend to over 100 farm animals and am responsible for growing approximately 100 acres of crops.  My family has been so very supportive over these past few years as I have missed birthdays, sports tournaments, other special occasions, so many dinners and leisure time in general.  I’m proud to have had all of their support, help and understanding through this very hectic time.

Putting Council first over my two other full-time jobs and personal responsibilities needs to end. And with that, I will not be seeking reelection this fall.  I will continue to work hard until my term is over. I have a few motions that I will be bringing forward to make things better here in Norfolk County.

THANK YOU!

As our honourable Member of Parliament, Diane Findley says “It’s the most frustrating rewarding job I’ve ever had”. I couldn’t agree more.

I want to thank all of you for your support and guidance over the years.  I wish our candidates all the best in the upcoming election and am proud to have had your support representing the most beautiful ward in Norfolk County.  THANK YOU, WARD 1!