GACA Board Meeting – September 14, 2022

Published on by glebeannex

Glebe Annex Community Association (GACA)
Board Meeting – Wednesday, September 14, 2022, 7:00 p.m.

Present:  Annalisa Salonius, Avery Steinberg, Carrie Bolton, David Perkins, Gabrielle Dallaporta, Laurent Carbonneau, Marni Crossley, Scott Templeton, Sue Stefko, Zita Eriole, Anna Cuylits and Beverlee McIntosh (OSCA/SWOOS), Joshua Bridges (JHS)

1. Call to Order

The meeting commenced at 7:06 p.m.

2. Approval of the Agenda

The agenda was approved
  • Removed the Councillor’s office update due to election period.
  • Motion: Motion by Sue to amend and approve the agenda. Seconded by Laurent, with motion carried.

3. Minutes from the June Meeting

  • No changes requested to the June 8th minutes.
  • Motion: Motion by Sue to approve; motion carried.

4. Business Arising from our last meeting

  • There was no business arising from the last meeting.

5. Senior Watch Old Ottawa South (SWOOS)

  • Guest speakers Anna and Beverlee came to discuss the SWOOS program, which is a committee of the Old Ottawa South Community Association (OSCA).
  • Anna Provided a brief overview of the work that SWOOS is doing, as well as their partnered organizations. Topics included what the senior population of the future will look like; age friendly communities; housing options for independent and assisted living; supportive services for the elderly to live in place; neighbourhood walkability; etc.
  • SWOOS is currently seeking collaboration between public, private and community organizations to implement innovations recommended by experts, which will assist seniors to remain healthy longer, reduce the burden on public systems and delay institutional care costs, while enhancing the social and economic life of the community.
  • To this end, SWOOS is working towards creating a seniors’ health hub that will enhance healthy aging in the community and reduce institutional health system costs. The hub can be in a space provided by the community, as well as provide services virtually. The hub will employ a nurse, with administrative coordination by existing service agencies and research/evaluation support from local universities.
  • Anna asked if GACA would like to support SWOOS by way of providing an endorsement letter.  Considerations:
    • There is no financial impact or conditions related to an endorsement by GACA. The endorsement would be used by SWOOS in its future grant proposals. At this time, there would be no direct benefit for communities outside of Old Ottawa South’s catchment area, though this could change over time.
  • Action: A GACA letter of endorsement for SWOOS will be discussed at an upcoming board meeting.

6. 289 Carling Ave update – Joshua Bridges

  • Joshua Bridges from the John Howard Society (JHS) provided an update on the status of the JHS building at 289 Carling Ave.
    • JHS is looking to have full occupancy by October 31st with the final completion date in November. Some of the upper floor units are already completed.
    • Joshua described the initial building setup, resident assessments and selection, level of care and supports, and ways to address negative incidents experienced by members of the Glebe Annex community.
    • The staffing model will be 3 case managers, 2 overnight support workers, plus one during the day. All residents will be over 18.
    • The location’s education and training services will mainly operate from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with some early evening programing, up to 6:30 p.m. A resident guest policy is in development- overnight stays will not be permitted.
    • Joshua explained the process the city uses for supportive housing and JHS’ various tiers of support. This location will consist of a more stable resident community that does not require the same level of support as other locations.
    • Unlike some of the other JHS locations, this site will not have onsite health services or a partner for medical interventions. JHS is developing a proposal for hiring a nurse practitioner a couple times a week for minor medical supports, e.g., diabetes treatments.
    • This site will have a mix of genders, but it won’t be an even split. The numbers will depend on the current demand, although ensuring there is a balance will be important.
    • Residents will be selected from various city referrals, which may include other JHS housing units.
    • JHS has yet to confirm the initial resident setup package, such as housewares and items beyond the standard unit amenities.
    • Members of the board once again expressed an interest in providing resident welcome packages with useful start-up items.
    • Joshua offered his contact information and invited board members to contact him directly for any follow-up questions.
  • No actions or motions were put forward.

7. General update – Sue

7.1 – Capital Ward Candidates Debates for the 2022 Municipal Election

  • The debate will be held on September 22nd from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Glebe Community Centre. The Glebe Community Association along with other ward associations are coordinating the event.
  • Annalisa, Laurent, and Marni put their names forward to volunteer at the debate.
  • Motion: Motion by Sue to contribute $50 towards the event costs. Seconded by Annalisa, with motion carried.

7.2 – 275 Carling Ave: Ontario Land Tribunal Decision – Update

  • The Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) has rendered its decision on Katasa’s appeal to permit the use of mechanical space on the 17th floor to become a lounge. The OLT has decided in favour of the developer, so Katasa now has the green light to proceed with its plan.

7.3 – Pedestrian pass – Update

  • Until the work by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation and Canada Lands finishes, and Orangeville St reopens between Booth and Rochester streets near the Queensway, Norman St. will remain the nearest East-West connection for pedestrians.

7.4 – General discussion

  • GACA sponsored community events
    • There was some discussion as to whether GACA will put on any community events this fall. This will be discussed further at the next board meeting.
  • Format for upcoming board meetings
    • The October board meeting will be held virtually.
    • There was general agreement to hold GACA’s November meeting in-person, and at the new John Howard Society facility if the space is available.

8. Cleaning the Capital Date Selection – Sue

  • The Glebe Annex fall community clean-up will take place Saturday, September 24th, from 10:30 a.m. until noon, starting from Dalhousie South Park at 343 Bell St. South.
  • The rain date will be the following day – Sunday, September 25th, at the same time.

9. Adjournment

  • The meeting adjourned at 8:50 p.m.

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