community profile - Municipality of Gordon/Barrie Island

COMMUNITY PROFILE
July 2012
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Strategic Plan for Economic Development
Gordon/Barrie Island at a Glance
Human Resources
Labour, Training, and Business & Economic Development
Education
Local Government Services
Housing and Building
Communication and Media
Transportation
Professional Services
Senior's Tea & School Bell Dedication 2012
Strategic Plan for Economic Development
2012-2022 Strategic Plan
Economic development is often viewed as its end goals - the creation of jobs and the improvement of
the quality of life. However, economic development should also be seen as a process that involves
the entire community and influences the structure of the local economy in order to affect positive
economic well-being for its citizens.
Having hired an Economic Development Officer intern in late 2011, the implementation of the
Strategic Plan for the Municipality of Gordon/Barrie Island is an important step in guiding the
municipality's economic development decision-making and realizing benefits for the whole
community.
The Municipality of Gordon/Barrie Island is focusing its development efforts on encouraging and
enhancing small business growth in the area; attracting businesses and services that will positively
contribute to our lifestyle; supporting local farmers and producers by creating awareness of food and
goods grown and made in our municipality; enhancing support for the health and well-being of all
ages; and creating a community that will continue to attract new residents and cottagers for years to
come.
The Municipality of Gordon/Barrie Island is committed to a healthy and prosperous future for our
residents and businesses, and will continue to play an active role in nurturing local business
development.
Vision Statement:
The Municipality of Gordon/Barrie Island puts its people first by ensuring our community is a safe
and healthy place to establish roots; we promote sustainable development, active lifestyles, and our
treasured location off the beaten path.
Gordon/Barrie Island at a Glance
Location
The Municipality of Gordon/Barrie Island is located on Manitoulin Island in Lake Huron, the
world's largest freshwater lake island. Manitoulin Island is a beloved summer destination for
thousands of seasonal residents and visitors, but it's also built on a strong agricultural and
entrepreneurial foundation. Gordon/Barrie Island completely surrounds the Town of Gore Bay, the
local services hub. This municipality boasts hundreds of kilometres of Lake Huron limestone
shoreline, three major inland lakes, and several smaller spring-fed ponds. Gordon/Barrie Island is well
known as a prime location for hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, swimming, golfing, biking, bird
watching, and boating, to name a few.
Approximate highway distances and driving times from Gordon/Barrie Island (Intersection of
Highways 540 and 542) to other island communities:
Town
Gore Bay
Mindemoya
Little Current
Meldrum Bay
South Baymouth
Kilometres
2
42
60
68
70
Miles
1.2
25
36
41
42
Time
2 minutes
35 minutes
45 minutes
1 hour
1 hour
Approximate highway distances and driving times from Gordon/Barrie Island to major cities:
City
Sudbury
Sault Ste Marie, ON
Toronto
Ottawa
Montreal
Buffalo, NY
Kilometres
180
350
575
670
865
710
Miles
108
210
345
402
519
426
Time
2 hours
4 hours
6 hours
8 hours
10 hours
8.5 hours
Quality of Life
If there's one thing residents of Gordon/Barrie Island value, it's our
lifestyle. "Cottage country" has always been that place that city folk can't
wait to visit, but many are beginning to seek this lifestyle as a more
permanent fixture. As people begin to move away from the city in favour of
a more relaxed way of life, and as telecommunications and transportation
services continue to improve, this kind of lifestyle is becoming more feasible and more desirable.
Residents not only live here - they thrive here. Visitors often comment on the slower pace of life, and
in today's frantic, high-speed world, we think that's a good thing.
Gordon/Barrie Island has a strong agricultural and aquacultural background, but small
businesses have always succeeded here. Manitoulin Island does not depend on big-city box stores or
restaurant chains for their shopping needs; we create the business ourselves. As such, we recycle our
money within our communities and keep our own economy strong. Our municipality is proudly home
to more than thirty local businesses, and they're all self-starters.
Gordon/Barrie Island's vision is to see sustainable development that will contribute to the
well-being of our community. We're a safe place for families and we're open for business.
A Strong Agricultural Sector
In addition to the business community, the Municipality of
Gordon/Barrie Island has a proud history of a strong agricultural sector with
cattle ranching and crop farming comprising the main farming activities.
Agricultural Profile for the Municipality of Gordon/Barrie Island (2011 Agricultural Census)
Gordon/Barrie Island
55
46
18,030
2,849,450
39,981,987
4934
3,188
Total number of operators
Total number of farms
Total area of farms (hectares)
Total gross farm receipts ($)
Total farm capital ($)
Total cattle and calves
Total crops (hectares)
Manitoulin Island
300
235
63,976
12,684,196
174,048,266
15,504
13,472
Moderate Climate
Manitoulin Island enjoys all four seasons whole-heartedly, and there is no comparison for an
island sunset.
Temp. (°C)
Average high
Average low
Average
Jan
-4.8
-15.3
-10.1
Feb
-1
-10.9
-6
Mar
4.3
-6
-0.9
Apr
10.8
0.1
5.4
May
18.8
6.7
12.7
Jun
21.5
10.3
15.9
Jul
24.4
13.1
18.8
Aug
23.6
12.7
18.2
Sep
19.1
9.3
14.2
Oct
12.2
3.6
8
Nov
5.9
-0.5
2.7
Dec
-0.8
-9.1
-5
Precipitation
Monthly
rainfall (mm)
Monthly
snowfall (cm)
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
28
30
13
21
64
94
68
80
98
71
62
40
92
37
17
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
25
82
Culture
The culture of Manitoulin Island is diverse and inclusive.
"Haweaters", those who were born on Manitoulin Island and are
named after the local hawberry, have an annual celebration at the
Haweater Festival during the August long weekend. Every community
holds its own festivals, and several events are island-wide
celebrations of local talent. The island's six First Nation reservations
each hold traditional powwows in the summer and other cultural events year-round. The varied
backgrounds of all islanders contribute to a musical, artistic, theatrical, culinary, and creative culture.
Recreation
Manitoulin Island is an outdoor enthusiast's heaven. With many kilometres of hiking trails,
bike paths, and snowmobile trails; an abundance of water for boating, sailing, swimming, and diving;
varied wildlife for observing and hunting; summer and winter sports and facilities for fun and
competition; and a multitude of festivals, the island has plenty to offer residents and visitors alike.
Recently the Gore-Bay Manitoulin Airport was host to the Canadian Snowbirds, and nationallyrenowned musicians and orchestras have played venues on the island. Manitoulin features a strong
musical and theatrical scene, and is proud to support local, national, and international talent.
The Culture and Recreation Committee for the Municipality of
Gordon/Barrie Island plans a variety of events throughout the year.
Two of their new and growing festivals are the Maple Syrup Festival in
April and the Advent Festival Market in December. All of their festivities
reflect the personality of Gordon/Barrie Island and are unique
celebrations of our area.
Key Points of Interest
Manitoulin Island Country Club
Phone (May-Oct)
282.2282
micc.gordonbarrieisland.ca
MICC is a 9 hole, par 36 golf course located at 25 Golf Course Road, 2km South of
the OPP Station at the intersection of Highways 540 and 542. Power carts, clubs,
and pull carts are available to rent, and no tee-times are required. The licensed Clubhouse dining room is open
to everyone. Visit the pro shop for some high-quality merchandise, or take advantage of the apartment above
the Clubhouse for a Stay & Play package. Call for memberships and other inquiries (off-season: 282 2702).
Janet Head Lighthouse
Open July and August - Free entry
The lighthouse at Janet Head was built in 1879 and continues to operate today. Visit the
Lighthouse Tuesday through Saturday, 1-4pm for more fascinating stories of heartbreak,
history, and town lore.
Public Swim Beaches
Julia Bay; Tobacco Lake; Barrie Island
In 2010 the Municipality upgraded the beaches at two locations to make them family-friendly and accessible to
all. Washroom and change room facilities are available at all three locations. Take a break from the sun in the
gazebo, or just relax and enjoy the sand between your toes! The Tobacco Lake beach is South of the Manitoulin
Island Country Club; the Julia Bay beach is approximately 2 minutes West of Gore Bay-Manitoulin Airport; and the
Barrie Island park is located at 420 Goosecap Crescent.
Boat Launches
Julia Bay; Barrie Island
Take advantage of the boat launches located at Julia Bay (near the beach) and on Goosecap Crescent on Barrie
Island.
The Tenth Bike Path
The Tenth Side Road, Ice Lake
During the rebuilding of the Tenth in 2010, the Municipality of Gordon/Barrie Island ensured that paved bike
lanes were included. Enjoy seven kilometres one way of cycling in a scenic setting, and rest awhile at the bike
shelter along the way.
Farm Gate
Throughout the municipality
Since Spring 2012, several farmers, gardeners, and producers in Gordon/Barrie Island have participated in our
Farm Gate Market initiative, which encourage locally-grown food and locally-made goods.
Advent Festival Market
Every year during the first weekend in December, the Municipality of Gordon/Barrie Island is transformed into
a Canadian version of the Christkindl markets found in Europe. Our small market is growing but features local
vendors, outdoor fires, festive food, and Glüwein (hot mulled wine). It's the only one like it on Manitoulin
Island and is not to be missed.
Maple Syrup Festival
The Annual Maple Syrup Festival is in its infancy, but based on its reception this year is sure
to expand quickly. Celebrating 'nature's sweetest treat', Gordon/Barrie Island serves a
delicious pancake breakfast, offers wagon rides to the sugar bush for a tour, and has plans
to expand to maple cook-offs and other outdoor festivities.
A Range of Local Services
The Municipality of Gordon/Barrie Island provides many services to its taxpayers. A transfer station,
full service volunteer fire department, two community halls, recreation facilities, dining, accommodations, and
retail stores are all located in Gordon/Barrie Island, while a short drive away the Town of Gore Bay offers
medical and dental services, a union public library, and a variety of retail, accommodation, and dining options.
Population and Human Resources
In the five years between 2006 and 2011, the population of the Municipality of Gordon/Barrie
Island increased by 14.6% - the largest increase of any island municipality. In 2011, Statistics Canada
reported a population of 526 permanent residents. The current labour force of 325 people are
employed at a variety of local and island companies, but many are entrepreneurs and run their
businesses from home. In the 2006 Census, the Township of Gordon and the Township of Barrie
Island were both able to boast a 0% unemployment rate.
Population Statistics (Canadian Census 2011)
Total
Male
Female
525
265
260
Population in 2011
526
0 to 4 years
20
10
10
Population in 2006
459
5 to 9 years
15
5
10
2006 to 2011 population change
(%)
14.6
10 to 14 years
20
15
15
Total private dwellings
599
15 to 19 years
30
15
20
20 to 24 years
15
10
10
Private dwellings occupied by usual
residents
237
25 to 29 years
15
5
10
Population density per square km
2.0
30 to 34 years
15
10
10
35 to 39 years
20
5
10
40 to 44 years
20
10
10
45 to 49 years
40
15
25
50 to 54 years
55
25
25
55 to 59 years
55
30
25
60 to 64 years
80
35
45
65 to 69 years
55
35
20
70 to 74 years
40
25
10
75 to 79 years
20
10
15
80 to 84 years
20
5
5
5
0
0
Median age of population
55.0
56.8
53.1
% of the population aged
15 and over
88.3
92.3
87.6
Total population
Population and dwelling counts
Land area (square km)
85 years and over
Total
268.14
Education Levels
There is a wide mix of education attainment in the Municipality of Gordon/Barrie Island. This
ensures that the municipality is in a good position to sustain a range of business and industrial
operations with specific skill sets and education requirements.
Education Attainment Levels in the Municipality of Gordon/Barrie Island, 2006 Census (Adjusted)
Total Population, 15 years and older
Total population
No certificate, diploma, or degree
High school certificate or equivalent
Apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma
College, CEGEP or other non-university certificate or diploma
University certificate, diploma, or degree
Total
390
105
115
60
80
25
Male
185
75
35
25
40
0
Female
210
35
80
30
45
20
Local Businesses
Over thirty businesses are located in the Municipality of Gordon/Barrie Island. While the
majority of them have less than five employees, there are several larger businesses with more than
five employees, ensuring that the unemployment rate in our municipality remains low. A diverse
business core ensures a healthy, stable economy, and contributes to increased quality of life for
residents and businesses alike.
Major Employers Located in the Municipality of Gordon/Barrie Island
Company Name
Manitoulin Transport
Noble Lumber
Municipality of Gordon/Barrie Island
Evergreen Resort
Manitoulin Island Country Club
Ontario Provincial Police
Sector
Delivery
Building Supplies
Local Government
Tourism (Seasonal)
Recreation (Seasonal)
Public
# of Employees (Est.)
150-199
10-19
8-10
5-9
10-19
7
Major Employers Located on Western Manitoulin Island
Company Name
Lafarge
Canadian Yacht Charters
Purvis Bros. Fishery
Manitoulin Lodge
Charles C. McLean Public School
Dean's Valu Mart
Location
Meldrum Bay
Gore Bay
Gore Bay
Gore Bay
Gore Bay
Gore Bay
Sector
Quarry
Tourism (Seasonal)
Aquaculture
Social Services
Education
Grocery
# of Employees (Est.)
50-99
10-19
20-49
20-49
10-19
15-24
Labour, Training, and Business & Economic Development
Service Canada
W: jobbank.gc.ca
FedNor
Arik Theijsmeijer, Community Economic Development Officer - Sudbury & Area
Suite 307, 19 Lisgar Street
Sudbury, ON P3E 3L4
T: (705) 670 6207 or 1 (877) 333 6673 x261
F: (705) 671 0717
E: arik.theijsmeijer@ic.gc.ca
W: fednor.gc.ca
LaCloche Manitoulin Business Assistance Corporation (LAMBAC)
30 Meredith Street, P.O. Box 130
Gore Bay, ON P0P 1H0
T: 705 282 3215
1 800 461 5131
F: 705 282 2989
W: lambac.org
Manitoulin Chamber of Commerce
6062 Hwy 542, P.O. Box 307
Mindemoya, Ontario POP 1S0
T: 705 377 7501
1 800 698 6681
E: office@manitoulinchamber.com
W: manitoulinchamber.com
Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
Esther Spadzinski, Northern Development Officer - Sudbury & Area
30 Meredith Street, P.O. Box 450
Gore Bay, ON P0P 1H0
T: 705 282 1429
E: esther.spadzinski@ontario.ca
W: mndm.on.ca
Waubetek Business Development Corporation
94 Highway 551
M'Chigeeng, ON P0P 1G0
T: 705 377 7311
E: waubetek@waubetek.com
W: waubetek.com
Education
Day Care
Gore Bay Child Care
43 Hall Street
Gore Bay, ON P0P 1H0
T: 705 282 8669
F: 705 282 8679
E: gorebaychildcare@yahoo.com
W: gorebaychildcare.ca
Elementary School
Charles C. McLean Public School
43 Hall Street
P.O. Box 678
Gore Bay, ON P0P 1H0
T: 705 368 7015
W: rainbowschools.ca/elementary/cc_mclean/
Secondary School
Manitoulin Secondary School
107 Bay Street
P.O. Box 307
M'Chigeeng, ON P0P 1G0
T: 705 368 7000
W: rainbowschools.ca/secondary/manitoulinss/
Post-Secondary & Continuing Education
Cambrian College - Manitoulin Campus
7 Water Street
Little Current, ON P0P 1K0
T: 705 368 3194
F: 705 368 3496
W: cambriancollege.ca
Contact North
410 Falconbridge Road
Sudbury, ON P3A 4S4
T: 705 560 2710
F: 705 525 0136
W: contactnorth.ca
Where Character Counts
Local Government Services
Law Enforcement
Ontario Provincial Police
14767 Hwy 542 (at Hwy 540 intersection)
T: 705 282 2621
F: 705 282 2800
Emergency: 911
Fire Protection
Joint Fire Department (Volunteer)
25 Hwy 540-B
T: 705 282 3233 (NB: the department is not manned)
Emergency: 911
Garbage and Recycling
Transfer Station
14591 Hwy 542
Hours listed on municipal website at gordonbarrieisland.ca
Communication and Media
Telephone Provider
Bell Canada
310-BELL (2355)
bell.ca
Internet Providers
Vianet Internet Solutions (High Speed Wireless)
128 Larch Street, Suite 201
Sudbury, ON
P3E 5J8
Phone: (705) 675-0400
Fax: (705) 675-0404
vianet.ca
Xplornet (High Speed Satellite)
Toll Free: 1 866 841 6001
info@xplornet.com
xplornet.com
Bell Internet (Turbo Hub)
bell.ca
Cellular Service
Manitoulin Island has coverage for all major carriers, including Bell, Rogers, Telus, Virgin, and Koodo.
Cellular towers belong to Bell Canada and Rogers.
Newspapers
The Manitoulin West Recorder (weekly)
T: 705 282 2003
E: therecorder@bellnet.ca
W: manitoulin.ca
The Manitoulin Expositor (weekly)
1 Manitowaning Rd.
Little Current, ON, P0P 1K0
Canada
T: 705 368 2744
E: expositor@manitoulin.ca
W: manitoulin.ca
The Sudbury Star (daily)
33 MacKenzie St.,
Sudbury, Ontario, Canada
P3C 4Y1
T: (705) 674 5271
E: dave.paquette@sunmedia.ca
W: thesudburystar.com
Radio
100.7 The Island FM (Country)
10 Campbell Street E, P.O. Box 538
Little Current, ON P0P 1K0
T: 705 368 1419 (administration)
E: radio@manitoulin.net
W: theislandfm.com
Moose CKNR 94.1 FM (Top 40)
T: (705) 848 3608
Contest Line: 1 800 656 7359
W: moosefm.com/cknr
Postal Services
Canada Post
46 Meredith Street
Gore Bay, ON P0P 1H0
T: 1 800 267 1177
Courier Services
Robinson Auto Supply (Purolator)
60 Meredith Street
Gore Bay, ON P0P 1H0
T: 705 282 2090
Housing and Building
Dwellings in Gordon/Barrie Island consist mainly of single detached houses and each property looks
after its own water and sewer. Our municipal taxes are the lowest on Manitoulin Island without
sacrificing on the quality infrastructure we provide. Please contact the office if you have any
questions about purchasing property or building in Gordon/Barrie Island.
Building Permits and Fees
Application Fee: $150
Building Permit: $.40 cents per sq. foot
$.32 cents per sq. foot for 2nd floor
Accessory Building: $150.00
$.15 cents per sq. foot
$.10 cents per sq. foot for second floor
Qualified Agricultural Building:
(ie hay storage, livestock facility, implement building): $150.00
$.08 cents per sq. foot
Demolition: $50.00
Renovations/Alterations to Structural Change: $50.00 per inspection
In addition to $150.00 application
Revision to existing permits: Additional $50.00 plus
$.40 cents per sq. foot
Structural re-location: $150.00 plus $.40 cents per sq. foot
Renewal: $50.00 after a two year period
Re-visits caused by deficiencies: $50.00 per visit
Penalty: $500.00
(non-compliance of fee schedule)
Transportation
Road Infrastructure
Over 100km of roads in our municipality are maintained by our Public Works department. Quality
transportation has always been a priority item in Council budgets, and roads and bridges continue to
be of high quality.
Gore Bay-Manitoulin Airport
Our full-service local airport is located in our municipality and boasts a 5500x100 foot asphalt runway,
instrument approach, PAPI lights, 100LL and Jet fuel, customs, hangar rentals, 24 hour washrooms, a
variety of oils, and a small concessions area. Flight lessons are also available.
247 Airport Road
T/F: 705 282 2101
E: bestairport@onlink.net
W: manitoulin.com/gbair
Hours: May-October 8am-6pm; off-season by callout
Airport Manager: Robert J. Colwell
Gore Bay Marina
The Gore Bay Marina in Gore Bay provides 100 transient slips with power, fuel, pumpouts, fresh
water, seasonal and daily dockage rates, on-site boat lift, repair, and storage, dockside marine store,
and a local charter company.
30 Water Street
T: 705 282 2906
W: gorebay.ca
Harbourmaster: Lee Hayden
MS Chi-Cheemaun
The Chi-Cheemaun (Ojibwe for "Big Canoe") is a three-season car and passenger ferry connecting
South Baymouth on Southeastern Manitoulin to the town of Tobermory on the Bruce Peninsula. The
ferry is well-used by those who wish to save themselves the 'drive around' when travelling to
Southern and Southwestern Ontario, and by visitors to Manitoulin. The ship is wheelchair accessible
with an onboard cafeteria, lounge, souvenir shop, arcade and play area, and bar. Call or go online to
make reservations and find out this year's pricing.
T: 1 800 265 3163
W: ontarioferries.com
Professional Services
Physicians
Gore Bay Medical Centre
70 Meredith Street, Gore Bay
T: 705 282 2262
Dentists
Dr. Bill Studzienny
70 Meredith Street, Gore Bay
T: 705 282 2223
Also offering orthodontic services.
Chiropractors
Manitoulin Chiropractor Clinic
2208 Hwy 551, Mindemoya
T: 705 377 5290
W: drsimon.org
Veterinarians
Island Animal Hospital
5993B Hwy 542, Mindemoya
T: 705 377 7200
Dr. Scott Veterinary Services
2058 Hwy 551, Mindemoya
T: 705 377 5666
Hospitals/Clinics
Manitoulin Health Centre
W: manitoulinhealthcentre.com
2120 Hwy 551, Mindemoya
T: 705 377 5371
11 Meredith Street, Little Current
T: 705 368 2300
Financial Services
Bank of Montreal
68 Meredith Street, Gore Bay
T: 705 282 2490
W: bmo.com
Espanola & District Credit Union
47 Meredith Street, Gore Bay
T: 705 282 2511
W: espanolacu.com
Key Contacts
Laura Barfoot
Economic Development Officer
edo@gordonbarrieisland.ca
Carrie Lewis, CMO
CAO/Clerk-Treasurer
clerk@gordonbarrieisland.ca
Municipality of Gordon/Barrie Island
29 Noble Side Road
P.O. Box 680
Gore Bay, ON P0P 1H0
T: 705 282 2702
F: 705 282 2722
gordonbarrieisland.ca