Raven Lake Cottagers' Association Raven News

RLCA 2024 AGM Minutes

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 21:05:26 GMT

Meeting minutes from the 2024 RLCA AGM held virtually on Thursday September 26th @ 7pm

RLCA Sept 2024 AGM Minutes.pdf

RLCA 2025 Newsletter & AGM Update

Sat, 11 Oct 2025 12:24:38 GMT

Dear Raven Lake Friends and Neighbours,

It's finally here — the 2025 ~~spring~~ fall newsletter has arrived! Better late than never. I apologize for the delay. Despite the wait, I hope everyone has had as fantastic a summer on the lake as my family and I did — enjoying the warm weather, sunshine, and beautiful long dock days.

I envision many of you reading this year’s newsletter by a cozy fire on a cool autumn morning, taking a moment to reflect on the season behind us and look forward to the months ahead. It’s a perfect time to enjoy the changing leaves and start thinking about winter cottage closing.

As we look to the future of our community, we are in need of new directors and volunteers to keep the spirit of Raven Lake strong and vibrant. If anyone is interested in joining the board or getting involved, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me, Mike, or Ross. Your involvement makes a real difference. I also want to share that I am planning to step down from my role as president after the 2026 AGM, so now is a great time for new leadership to step forward and help guide our community.

Our annual AGM will be held on Thursday, November 6th at 7 pm. We’re looking forward to catching up with everyone virtually and sharing updates from the community.

Warm regard,

Sean Hungerford, RLCA President

RLCA 2025 Spring Newsletter V4.pdf

RLCA 2023 AGM Minutes

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 19:27:17 GMT

Meeting minutes from the 2023 RLCA AGM held virtually on Wed Sept 6th, 2023 @7pm.

RLCA Sept 2023 AGM Minutes.pdf

DIPPY's visit Raven

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 16:31:40 GMT

As a former owner of a DIPPY, I was pleased to see the Dispro Owners Association mount a one-day visit to Raven Lake in July. I know Harry Wilson was on hand for the event and I hope many of you were involved, as well. The August newsletter of the DOA features the event and is attached. I hope you enjoy the commentary and pictures, as much as the visitors did.

Ross Lawrence

Device August 2024.pdf

2024 Raven Lake Spring Newsletter

Wed, 15 May 2024 15:36:20 GMT

Greetings Raven Lake Residents!

The RLCA Spring Newsletter has arrived. The 2024 newsletter teams hopes everyone enjoys this years addition, and we can't wait to see everyone back at the lake soon!

2024 RLCA Newsletter.pdf

RLCA 2022 AGM Minutes

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 17:48:26 GMT

Meeting minutes from the 2022 RLCA AGM held virtually on August 25th, 2022 @7pm.

RLCA August 2022 AGM Meeting Minutes.pdf

RLCA 2023 AGM

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 14:23:31 GMT

Dear Raven Lake Cottagers,

The 2023 Annual General Meeting (AGM) is schedule for next Wednesday (Sept.6th) from 7:00 to 8:30pm ET virtually over Zoom. Please make sure to register to attend the AGM using the registration links below.

Meeting Agenda

Welcome
2022 AGM Minutes Adoption
Thank you to the 2022 - 2023 RLCA Directors
Membership Report
Treasurer's Report
Lake Steward Report
Regatta Report
Communication Report
Newsletter Report
Ways and Means Report
RLCA Bylaws and Constitution Update
Landing Maintenance Update
RLDA Update
2023 - 2024 RLCA Board Elections
New Business
- Resolution to change the RLCA office to the home address of the president
- Other new business
Adjournment

Questions, Comments and Discussions for the AGM

RLCA members are encouraged to join in the discussion and ask questions during the meeting. The Zoom meeting format allows for brief comments or questions to be made during the meeting using the Zoom Chat feature. Additionally we are asking members who have questions or topics they would like to raise ahead of the meeting, or members who are only able to join by phone to send your questions by email to info@ravenlake.org so that the board can address them during the call.

Please Register for the AGM here.

RLCA 2023 Regatta

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 14:22:35 GMT

Summer Reading is Here! 2023 RLCA Newsletter

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 14:15:38 GMT

Greetings Raven Lake Residents!

The 2023 Annual RLCA Newsletter has arrived and it's even bigger and even better than ever!!

The Newsletter committee hopes that the great collection of articles in this years newsletter will help you and your family feel closer to the cottage and to the Raven Lake Community!

2023 RLCA Newsletter.pdf

Lake of Bays Council Meeting, Tuesday January 10th, 2023, item 6(E)(V) "Raven Lake Landing Parking Lot

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 20:11:56 GMT

Attention: Mayor Glover, Councillor Lacroix, Councillor Anderson, Ms Sykes,

Mayor - Terry Glover: tglover@lakeofbays.on.ca

District Councillor - Robert Lacroix: rlacroix@lakeofbays.on.ca

Area Councillor - George Anderson: ganderson@lakeofbays.on.ca

Director of Corporate Services / Clerk: Carrie Sykes: csykes@lakeofbays.on.ca

Subject: Lake of Bays Council Meeting, Tuesday January 10th, 2023, item 6(E)(V) "Raven Lake Landing Parking Lot"

I am a property owner on Raven Lake, and I regularly use the Raven Lake Landing and Parking Lot. I am deeply concerned that Township Staff have prepared a report to Council regarding a significant change in policy regarding the Raven Lake Landing Parking Lot with insufficient notice or consultation with the various individuals and organizations which use the Raven Lake Landing and Parking Lot.

I understand that in the fall of 2022, the Raven Lake Cottage Association and Raven Lake Dock Association were told, by the mayor, that the matter of maintenance being completed by Lake of Bays at the parking lot was not an issue for the Township at that time.

Many groups, in addition to the residents and cottagers of Raven Lake, require that the landing and parking lot be maintained, as it has been, by the Township of Lake of Bays for the past thirty years. Groups that use the landing and parking lot year round as the only public access point to the lake include the Algonquin Highlands Fire Services Dept, Lake of Bays Planning and Building Departments, Algonquin Highlands Planning and Building Departments, Haliburton Highlands Water Trails users, The MNRF Enforcement branch, The Ontario Provincial Police, Hydro One Crews, Raven Lake Dock Association members, Raven Lake Cottagers Association members, Tall Pines Snowmobile Club trail users, Lake of Bays ATV Club trail users, local contractors, and many other leisure organizations and members of the general public.

I request that:

Lake of Bays Council NOT accept the recommendation from staff at this meeting to “immediately cease all operational maintenance activities” at the Landing.
Council commits to providing sufficient time for a rigorous public consultation and due diligence process which would detail the future impacts that such a measure would have on each of the public, and public sector stakeholders that will be impacted.
Council commits that it will not take such a direction without a fully developed solution in place for the continued operation and maintenance of the Raven Lake Landing and Parking lot.

Sincerely,

Add name and Cottage Address

2022 RLCA AGM

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 13:51:44 GMT

Dear Raven Lake Cottagers,

I hope everyone is enjoying another beautiful summer on the lake. I wanted to follow up to the recent survey about the 2022 RLCA Annual General Meeting (AGM).

For 2022, our AGM is scheduled for 7:00 - 8:30pm ET on Thursday, August 25th virtually over Zoom. Members will be able to ask questions using the Zoom chat during the meeting, or by emailing questions to info@ravenlake.org during the meeting or beforehand.

Please register for the AGM here.

A Proper Septic Inspection

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 16:55:35 GMT

Shared by Paul MacInnes - Chair: Coalition of Haliburton Property Owners Associations.

"This article is the best overview of a proper septic Inspection I have seen. The author is widely recognized as one of the top septic experts in North America. Is this how your system was inspected?"

Pump the Tank at the End of the Inspection.pdf

SPRING READING: 2022 RAVEN NEWSLETTER

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 12:50:38 GMT

Spring is here, and so is this years copy of the Raven Lake Newsletter!

Download your 2022 Raven Lake Cottagers' Association Newsletter here.

Progress on the Docking Project at the Landing

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 15:26:39 GMT

Dear Raven Lake Cottagers’ Association Members,

On behalf of the RLCA Landing Committee we would like to share some exciting news about the progress of docking project at the Landing.

The Raven Lake Dock Association’s (RLDA) vendor, R&J Machine has completed the construction of the first phase of docks, and they are now ready to be installed as soon as the ice is gone from the lake this spring. The initial installation will provide 40 slips which the 76 RLDA members will be sharing to start the 2022 cottage season.

On March 29^th a rezoning application to permit the RLDA docks to extend up to a maximum of 176' from shore and accommodate a maximum of 96 boat slips for Raven Lake Water Access Residents was heard at the Lake of Bays (LoB) Council meeting.

Council unanimous voted to approve the LoB Staff Report recommending the approval of the rezoning application.

During the council meeting, on behalf of the RLDA, the Landing Committee committed to continuing to work with our neighbours near the landing to ensure concerns about the project are addressed:

Keeping the overall length of the docking project to a minimum, and to keep the 4 main docks as close to uniform lengths as possible
- The RLDA has contacted the docking vendor, the layout of the docks and slips in second phase has been changed to be more rectangular and uniform in length, and the shorter main dock has been placed at north end of the project.

No additional lighting is included in the project in order to protect the night sky / dark sky in 5 Mile Bay
RLDA will assist with re-naturalization of the shoreline where possible, appropriate, and allowed by the MNRF
A working group has been established with the residents located near the landing to tackle some of the common neighbourly behaviour issues at the landing (ie. lighting, car lights, noise, boating, wakes, etc)

LoB published the rezoning approval on April 4^th; the Landing Committee is continuing to work with our planning consultant and with the LoB Planning and Building departments to submit the development permit application and building permit applications for the second phase of the project.

Once the necessary approvals are in place the main docks will be extended and slips will be installed for each of the 76 RLDA members.

The Landing Committee hopes that everyone is as excited as we are about how quickly and successfully the project has progressed since last fall. The RLCA Board of Directors, numerous Past Presidents, and volunteers on the Landing Committee have been working to see this project come to life since 2007. With the former stick docks removed, a new organized and centralized docking system installed, boating traffic removed from the shallow and environmentally sensitive areas and a large portion of the shoreline able to return to a natural state the whole Raven Lake community will be able to enjoy a much-improved situation at the landing this spring.

If you have any questions or concerns about the RLDA project, please reach out to the landing committee.

Sincerely,

The RLCA Landing Committee

Sean Hungerford, Scott Lewis, Graham Donald, Ross Lawrence, Mike Wlodek, Peter Hungerford, George Kenins, Craig Stoyles, Tom Wilson

Z 04-22 (Raven Lake Dock Assoc.) Notice of Passing.pdf

Algonquin Highlands Taxes Going Up!

Graham Donald — Thu, 31 Mar 2022 19:39:39 GMT

By Sue Tiffin, Minden Times, March 29, 2022

Councillors passed the township’s 2022 budget last week. The budget includes $14.6 million in total expenditures, $5.9 million which will come from property taxation. This represents a levy increase of 4.16 per cent over last year, for a 2.33 per cent increase in the municipal tax rate. This equates to an estimated overall increase of $14.94 for every $100,000 of assessment for residential properties.

“Changes approved in final deliberations resulted in an overall decrease in reserves of 31.5 per cent, but remaining funds should be considered a reasonable reserve balance for a municipality of this size,” said Jean Hughes, treasurer, in her report to council on March 17. “It was noted that the township is facing significant infrastructure needs going forward, and continued use of reserves without replenishing must be considered.”

Some budget highlights include the Dorset Recreation Centre’s mould remediation project, the continued reconfiguration of Maple Lake’s landfill, and improvements planned for the Stanhope Airport.

The final budget summary is available to view at algonquinhighlands.civicweb.net

Canadian Navigable Waters Act

Graham Donald — Wed, 30 Mar 2022 18:49:05 GMT

Canadian Navigable Waters Act

The Raven Lake Dock Association hereby gives notice that a submission has been added to the Navigable Waters Registry pursuant to the Canadian Navigable Waters Act for public comment described herein and its site and plans.

Pursuant to paragraph 10(1)(b) of the said Act, the Raven Lake Dock Association has deposited with the Minister of Transport, on the on-line Common Project Search Registry (http://cps.canada.ca/) and under Registry Number 5319, a description of the following work, its site and plans:

The installation of new floating docks consisting of 4 - 6 foot wide piers and attached 4 foot wide fingers to create up to 96 boat slips each having dimensions of 22 feet x11 feet

in, on, over, under, through or across

RAVEN LAKE

at 21624 Highway 35 opposite Shoe Lake Rd. about 3 km. south of Dorset

Comments regarding the effect of this work on marine navigation can be sent through the Common Project Search site mentioned above under the Comment section (search by the above referenced number) or if you do not have access to the internet, by sending your comments directly to:

Peter Hungerford, 1732 Mater Drive Sarnia Ontario N7S3S5 TEL. 519-331-2098

Note that comments will be considered only if they are received not later than 30 days after the publication of this notice.

Posted at RLCA Web Site this 30th day of March, 2022

Peter Hungerford

(Peter B. Hungerford)

Transport Canada (TC) will not make your comments on a project available to the public on the online public registry. However, any information related to a work is considered as unclassified public record and could be accessible upon legal request. As such, the information and records provided should not contain confidential or sensitive information. If you want to provide confidential or sensitive information that you think should not be made public, please contact TC before submitting it.

Good News for All Raven Lakers!

Graham Donald — Mon, 21 Mar 2022 18:22:16 GMT

We have some good news about the public docks at the Raven Lake Landing.

As many of you have commented, the public docks by the boat ramp have not been well maintained by the municipality in recent years and damaged sections have not been replaced.

Along with residents on the lake, the Raven Lake Cottagers' Association has raised concerns about this numerous times with the municipalities of Algonquin Highlands and Lake of Bays. More recently, members of the RLCA Landing Committee have also contacted the municipalities in this regard.

In early March, the township of Algonquin Highlands Council approved funds ($34,000) for replacing the public docks on both sides of the Raven Lake Boat Launch.

On behalf of the community, the RLCA Landing Committee has been in touch with the Algonquin Highlands Parks Director to request that these new docks be installed as soon as possible this spring.

More good news arrived yesterday when we received confirmation that the new docks have now been purchased and will be installed right away on top of the ice. Ramps to the new docks will be installed soon after and all of the work will likely be completed around the time that the ice goes out.

The municipality provided us with the image below of a similar installation.

We all look forward to these improved (and safer) facilities at the Raven Lake Public Launch!

Fresh off the ice! The new Raven Lake Public Landing docks were delivered on March 23rd.

RLDA Rezoning Application for Phase 2 of the Docking Project

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 14:35:11 GMT

On March 29^th, 2022 at 9.00 a.m. the Raven Lake Dock Association (RLDA) application for rezoning to enable the installation of Phase 2 of the new docking project will be considered by the Township of Lake of Bays (LoB) Council.

RLCA & RLDA members should be aware that after the required notice of the rezoning was distributed the Township has received objections to the rezoning from some of the cottagers near the landing. These objections will be taken into account by the Council at the upcoming March 29^th hearing, along with a Township staff report and recommendation, the Planning Justification Report prepared by the RLDA's planner, and any other comments received from circulated government agencies or the public. Members of the public are also entitled to attend the hearing and submit verbal comments.

We believe that LoB will approve our application, as it is in the public interest and has been formulated to conform to the requirements of the MNRF.

The Landing Committee encourages you to demonstrate that members of our lake community fully support the approval of this rezoning that is needed for Phase 2 of the dock project to proceed. A copy of the re-zoning notice as well as a letter of support submitted on behalf of the RLCA Board, Landing Committee and RLDA members are attached here for your reference.

To share feedback about the rezoning application (Z04/22 LOB, 21624 Highway 35, Roll No. 030-003-02900) with the Township of Lake of Bays, please reach out to Ms. Best-Sararas.

Thank You.

Members of the RLCA Landing Committee

Sean Hungerford; Scott Lewis; Graham Donald; Mike Wlodek; Ross Lawrence; George Kenins; Tom Wilson; Peter Hungerford; Craig Stoyles

RLDA Zoning Notice.pdf

RLCA Letter of Support for RLDA Rezoning Application.pdf

Highlights of the Landing Committee's Q & A

Graham Donald — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 13:28:10 GMT

On the evening of October 27, close to 70 members of the Raven Lake community gathered online with the 9-member Raven Lake Cottage Association Landing Committee to receive an update on the progress to date on the landing dock project as well as to discuss the process going forward.

This committee of the Raven Lake Cottagers' Association is responsible for managing the new subsidiary organization, the Raven Lake Dock Association, as it works to secure legal docking at the landing.

The slides presented by the committee at the meeting cover all of the details so far, address many of the community's questions, and also list many questions that will be addressed in the months ahead.

You can download and review the RLDA Virtual Q & A slides here:

RLDA Virtual QA Session - Oct.27.pdf

Pulling Up Stakes

Graham Donald — Wed, 20 Oct 2021 16:53:06 GMT

“Pulling up stakes, pardner?”

In a scene John Wayne himself could have starred in, settlers stood together, surrounded by roots they had put down over the years, visibly dismayed at being “run outta Dodge by the sheriff”. With the days of happily gliding in to hitch their “horses” to a familiar post now gone, even the wet and wild winds suggested dark days ahead.

“Been a-comin’ fer years, you know; it had to be. But it ain’t the end of the world; better days lie ahead.” a vaguely familiar voice said. “Here, let me give you a hand, friend...”

Exactly who spoke those words nobody was quite sure, but just like that, just like always, the community started coming together. The mood brightened, hammers and saws rang out, the sun appeared, other settlers arrived and a few hours later many familiar hitching posts had vanished. A little wistful, but smiling just the same, they looked out together over a long-obscured shoreline reasserting itself.

“Ya know, those old things, they were some ugly. Rickety. Death traps, even; ours was for sure. I’m surprised the sheriff didn’t act sooner. Who’d a thought so much could disappear in a morning?”

Dirty hands hanging at their sides, the settlers looked out to where their stakes used to be, then down the shore where others still stood, waiting to go.

“Just a few days ago we were all plenty upset about the situation, feeling hard done by, the cost, the timing ‘n all. Hopeless.” The voice continued. “Rumours, a lot of blamin’ goin’ on, pretty desperate really. But when I heard about the Plans ‘n how much better things are gonna be for everyone, ‘n see how much we’ve got done already... ya, it’s not gonna be cheap ‘n time’s a tickin’, but we’ve seen what this community can do when we all put our shoulders to the wheel.”

Assuming the one standing next to them had spoken their thoughts, heads nodded.

“Not hopeless now, though. Friends and neighbours will step up soon ‘nuff, once they see what got done today. Nobody we know is gonna leave it to others to clean up their mess; that’s not how we do things here. Right?”

For the record: while these photos document the 4 hrs spent removing the longest stick dock from the landing, others were already gone or being removed at the same time. Inspired as we were by our Raven Lake friends, we hope this little bit of fun encourages other stick dockers to “git ‘er gone”. RLCA needs us all to remove docks and boats from the landing in order to secure a legal Land Use Permit from MNRF, so that we never again have to worry about our cottage access.

–– Harry Wilson

Docks are Disappearing! (And it's a good thing!)

Graham Donald — Wed, 20 Oct 2021 16:36:48 GMT

We'd like to thank the many of you who have managed to get out on some wet weekends with all your tools and trailers to dismantle and haul away your old docks. It's great to see the shoreline opening up. There are still many docks remaining, but most appear still to be in use and we're hopeful that they will be gone soon too.

Raven Lake Dock Project Update

Graham Donald — Fri, 08 Oct 2021 20:54:06 GMT

Hello Raven Lake Cottage Association Members,

With the MNRF posting of the stick dock removal notices this week, and the uncertainty and stress that this is undoubtedly causing our members, we want to share the below detailed update on the docking project. While there are no guarantees the project will be completed by spring of 2022, we would like to take this time to show our progress and plans for the project going forward.

Planning & Zoning Process

We conducted an on-site visit at the landing with the Township of Lake of Bay (LoB) planner on Oct. 1st. Based on the discussion at this meeting, we have determined that the best approach is to pursue two plans simultaneously – one that does not require rezoning (and is therefore more likely to be completed by spring) and a second that it is dependent on rezoning (and therefore more time consuming).

The MNRF has told the RLCA that they will issue us a Land Use Permit (LuP) (lease) for the water lot adjacent to the landing dependent on the RLCA: i) having a land survey completed (the RLCA is waiting on the completed survey materials now); and ii) the removal of the existing stick docks (MNRF posted the removal notice on Oct. 6th with a 45-day removal period ending on Nov. 20th). The RLCA has also requested that Bill Lang from Barriston Law in Huntsville, who has been engaged with this project for the last year, also act as our representative with the MNRF to secure our LuP.

Plan 1 will not require rezoning with LoB; this gives the best chance for docks to be in the water for ice out in the spring. The limitation of this plan is that it will only hold approximately 66 boats. Currently the Raven Lake Dock Association (RLDA) has 64 signed members. Therefore, while Plan 1 will be able to accommodate everyone who has currently signed, there are additional water access cottagers who may still choose to join the RLDA. If the number of members goes beyond the number of docks available for next year, we will need to look at creative ways for the community to accommodate more boats, such as dock pooling. Plan 1 is intended to be an interim solution while we secure the necessary rezoning approvals for plan 2.

Plan 2 requires a rezoning application to LoB. Because there is more involved in a rezoning application, this process may not be completed in time for March-April 2022. The RLCA is reaching out to find a local professional planner with availability and the knowledge to begin the rezoning application process as soon as possible.

The Landing Committee is starting work on both plan 1 and plan 2 now and will run them in parallel, where reasonable and appropriate. While completing the necessary Plan 2 approvals before the next cottage season is unlikely, if the necessary approvals are received in time, we would skip plan 1 and go straight to plan 2.

Once rezoning approvals are secured under Plan 2, this will allow us to increase the number of slips as needed to accommodate all water access residents that decide to join the RLDA.

Organizational Structure

The RLCA’s intent is to set up the docking project as a condominium corporation (a “Dockuminium”, if you will) as per the recommendations of both our Lawyer and the LoB planner. By structuring the docking project as a condominium, we can leverage the provincial rules around establishing a capital reserve and setting yearly maintenance fees to cover establishing the capital reserve and covering the yearly maintenance costs. Governance of condominiums in the Muskoka region is done at the District of Muskoka regional level, so the RLCA will have to make an application to and work with the district for approvals. This adds an additional layer of government interaction to this project; if the RLCA is not able to set up the docking project as a condominium structure for the spring of 2022, we would proceed with the new docking project structured as a club and then transition to a condominium structure once the necessary approvals are completed.

Vendors & Bidding Process

The landing committee has reached out to several dock vendors and have found 4 that are willing to bid on the project. We will be proceeding with a Request for Proposal / Quote (RFP) which includes both plan 1 and plan 2 shortly. One of the conditions of the RFP is that the vendor must be able to complete the new docks and have them in place on the ice after the snowmobile season ends and before ice out in March-April of 2022. We will need detailed plans from the vendor that we choose to proceed with the building permit applications for plan 1. Again, if the approvals for plan 2 are secured in time for next spring we would skip plan 1 and go forward with plan 2.

The landing committee has also reached out to 4 local contractors and have found 1 that is able to complete the removal of any stick docks still in place at the landing before the Nov.20th deadline. This will include removing the stick docks from the shoreline and disposing of the material properly. The contractor will also be moving any remaining boats or trailers from along the shoreline to the back of the parking lot so that there is space for the removal process as well as the installation process in the spring. We would again encourage anyone who has left a trailer or boat at the landing to remove it themselves before Nov. 20th.

Keeping You Informed

Again, while there are no guarantees in place at this time, progress with the MNRF for the LuP and the ongoing LoB Council support including our on-site meeting with the LoB planner suggest that we do have a path to having new docks in the water for the start of next year's water access cottage season.

The landing committee is going to be scheduling a virtual Q&A session on October 27th at 7:00 PM at which we will speak to the details in this update and offer the opportunity for questions. Please watch for an invitation from the RLCA over the next few days.

Sincerely,

RLCA Landing Committee
(Sean Hungerford, Scott Lewis, Graham Donald, Ross Lawrence)

Gayle Smallbridge, 1929 - 2021

Graham Donald — Mon, 04 Oct 2021 20:36:01 GMT

We are saddened to learn that Gayle Smallbridge has passed away at the age of 91. Gayle and her husband John have been members of the Raven Lake community at their cottage on the East Shore for many years.

For many years prior to 2000, Gayle was a member of the RLCA Board of Directors. She served as the RLCA Secretary and her role included issuing membership cards to all new members.

You will find her obituary at: https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/theglobeandmail/obituary.aspx?n=gayle-louise-smallbridge&pid=200282607

Unexpected Development Regarding the Raven Landing Project

Graham Donald — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 18:08:53 GMT

Dear Raven Lake Cottage Association Members & Raven Lake Dock Association Members,

Negotiations with the various government agencies who are involved in approving the creation of the new docks at the Raven Lake Landing have been progressing slowly but without interruption until last Friday. Christine Apostolov, the representative of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (“MNRF”) that we have been working with, unexpectedly sent us notice that the Minden Office of the MNRF would be posting an “unauthorized docks” notice at the landing, with a 60-day period to have the unauthorized docks removed.

This notice has come as a complete surprise to the RLCA landing committee as she had authorized and instructed us to have a survey completed of the property which would then enable us to obtain a lease with the MNRF for the lands that would be occupied by the new docks. The survey is almost complete and should be in hand within 2 weeks.

Immediately following receipt of the notice, we attempted to engage with her to determine if she could be persuaded not to post the notice based on our good faith efforts to date. Regrettably, she advised that she would not be available to deal with this matter until September 17.

The purpose of this letter is to update you on this change and to assure you that we are and will be addressing this unexpected event in the coming days. We have alerted our lawyers and will be formulating a strategy on how best to proceed and to ensure that we are not prejudiced by these unexpected actions of MNRF.

We will continue to keep you informed as we work through completion of the land survey, securing of a temporary lease with the MNRF and engaging with the Township of Lake of Bays on building approvals.

Sincerely,
RLCA Landing Committee
(Sean Hungerford, Scott Lewis, Graham Donald, Ross Lawrence)

2021 RLCA AGM Agenda, Reports & Minutes

Graham Donald — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 18:59:08 GMT

We had a great turnout and high engagement for our virtual Annual General Meeting on August 18th, 2021. Thank you to all the members who participated, joined the discussion, and showed their support.

While we certainly missed seeing everyone in person, the virtual meeting did allow good access by computer or phone; also, we were pleased to receive many questions in advance of the meeting that we were able to address.

Please click the links below to download the AGM Presentation (the agenda and reports) as well as the meeting Minutes.

RLCA 2021 AGM Presentation (Final).pdf

RLCA AGM Minutes 2021 (Final).pdf

Thank you, Susan Kanitz!

Graham Donald — Wed, 25 Aug 2021 14:06:24 GMT

Susan Kanitz had been a fixture around the lake and the RLCA Board for so many years that selling her cottage two years ago caught many Ravens by surprise. Understandable, perhaps, since husband Gil had passed away several years before and managing a cottage alone is no easy task, but still... after all, the Kanitz family has been a mainstay on the lake since the late 1950s.

Susan’s ready smile and easy laugh put everyone at ease, be that at the landing, regatta, AGM or, if you were really lucky, on Mona Bay for some Kanitz fine dining. She and Gil loved to entertain, to cruise the lake at sunset, and while Gil spent his summers building additions, docks and stock-piling firewood, Susan found multiple ways to engage with the lake community. An inspiring teacher by profession (I know; I worked with both Susan and Gil) and avid canoeist and nature lover by avocation, she served as RLCA secretary during the critical Lake Planning years. Her work there, like everything she did, was exemplary. While preferring to keep out of the limelight, she was willing to step forward and speak up as needed. Considerate, generous, patient and a clear thinker in all matters, she instilled in her family the fine art of Raven cottaging. It is difficult to imagine Raven Lake without her and her family.

We lost Susan in June after a difficult year. Daughter Hilary wanted to let everyone who helped the Kanitz family carry on cottaging in Gil’s absence know how much Susan appreciated their help. Such was Susan, the consummate giver, always surprised by kindnesses offered her. Raven Lake says thank you, Susan, one last time and extends its most sincere condolences to your family.

– Harry Wilson

RLCA 2021 Virtual Annual General Meeting

Graham Donald — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 23:00:00 GMT

The RLCA Annual General Meeting is being held Wednesday, August 18th, at 7-8 PM.

To ensure everyone's safety (including those with children and others who are ineligible for vaccinations) and also to allow access for those unable to get to the lake, we will be again holding the meeting virtually via Zoom.

To participate in the meeting, click here to register. If you do not have a reliable internet connection, you will be able to join via telephone (please note: phone-only participants will be able to listen, but not provide input during the meeting).

You will receive details about how to connect to the meeting from Zoom after you register.

A Tip of the Hat to Jack

Graham Donald — Mon, 19 Jul 2021 00:07:04 GMT

MacDermid roots are deep in our Raven Lake community, and none deeper than Jack’s. We lost Jack this past week, and while things just won’t be the same without him, we will all continue to benefit enormously from his 54 years on the lake. His legacy is everywhere.

Jack was an RLCA director and the Association’s “buoy fairy” for many years. He knew every inch of the lake from years of discovering and marking shoals, and while out dropping buoys he was as likely to stop by for a chat as drive by. His kids and grandkids are the same way. Jack was up for everything: fishing, water-skiing into his 80s, regattas, jetskiing, snowmobiling, Ravenstocks, corn roasts, Jack was always there, smiling quietly… His big tinnie with Hilda in the bow announced that the family was back on the lake and everyone knew if a situation arose on the lake, they would be there to help. That family trait lives on today.

Hilda and Jack built their cliff cottage in 1967 as a “Centennial Project”, erecting first the shed down at the shore so the family of four had some place to sleep while Jack built. No doubt John learned a great deal from that experience. Jack came by his pioneering spirit honestly; growing up on a farm near Cornwall where, if something needed fixing, you fixed it; if someone needed help, you helped them. A close friend and neighbour for 46 years describes Jack as the nicest man he ever met: “He never boasted. A true BFF. Always friendly, generous and welcoming, a man who left the fish he caught in the lake for someone else to catch tomorrow. The very model of the Raven Lake Spirit.” That spirit shines bright in so many that Jack touched, most strikingly in his kids and grandkids.

We will all remember Jack in different ways, but for many his quick smile and concern for our community will come to mind every time they pass one of the yellow minion buoys wearing those silly goggles. “What a wonderful lake!” we muse, as an inescapable smile begins… and that’s exactly the way Jack would want it.

–– Harry Wilson

Duncan Johnston (January 10, 1937 - November 3, 2020)

Graham Donald — Mon, 21 Jun 2021 18:15:40 GMT

Raven Lake has lost a true legend.

Dunc Johnston was one of a kind, which we are not likely to see again. It is truly the end of an era on Raven.

Dunc travelled the lake summer and winter since 1968; he was as familiar as the Raven Rock.

With his beautiful wife Jean by his side, they added several additions to their cabin purchased from parents of a friend.

They built a wonderful “home away from home” for their children Paul (Leslie) and Karen (Doug). As well as their 4 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Who love spending their time in his happy place.

Dunc touched so many lives around Raven Lake. Always willing to lend a hand, fix cottages, build decks, docks, and outhouses. Or just run people down the lake to their cottage on a Friday night.

We will remember him roaring down the lake in one of his three pontoon boats he built, with a home rolled cigarette burning in the wind.

The Raven Lake Rum Runners will forever know him as our Grand Poobah (Wizard). His tireless spark would encourage all of us to follow his footsteps. With fundraisers, beach parties, Radar Runs, Triathlons, and everything else in between, he knew how to bring our group together. Just hanging out on his beach in the summer or late night winter hangouts in the boathouse. It was always lots of laughs and good times with Dunc leading the pack. The Rum Runners will forever keep his legacy alive.

We are sure Dunc is together with the other Rum Runners who passed before him and they are sending cheers our way with a glass full. Please raise your glass to the sky and send cheers back to them!

Rest easy Zip, you will be missed!

– Love, Katie Van Pelt

Is it time to pump your septic?

Graham Donald — Mon, 21 Jun 2021 13:13:28 GMT

We are organizing to have a barge on the lake from July 26 to August 6 to pump out septic systems. Several people have already expressed an interest. If you would also like to join in, please send an email to mgw@bell.net with your full name, phone number and lake lot number before June 24th. The contractor has quoted a price of $1,000 - $1,250 per tank, depending on total numbers. You’ll need to be sure you’ve had your septic inspection completed prior to the pump out date.

Your Summer Reading: 2021 Raven Newsletter

Graham Donald — Sun, 20 Jun 2021 19:28:51 GMT

It's here and it's bigger and better than ever!

Download your 2021 Raven Lake Cottagers' Association Newsletter here.

In Person Events Postponed until 2022

Graham Donald — Thu, 27 May 2021 16:29:48 GMT

Due to the current Covid restrictions on event gatherings, the RLCA has to cancel the in person events again for this summer

Unfortunately that means the Regatta will have to be postponed. Hope to see everyone in 2022!

The AGM will be a virtual meeting again. Invites to come.

There will also be a virtual Family Fishing Day on July 3. Keep your eye out for details to come for that event as well.

Dorset Tower + Boat Launches

Ross Lawrence — Fri, 30 Apr 2021 19:37:40 GMT

Township of Algonquin Highlands COVID-19 Update - Dorset Tower and Township Boat Launches

The Township of Algonquin Highlands remains under a declared State of Emergency.

The Algonquin Highlands Emergency Control Group continues its assessment of the continually-evolving COVID-19 pandemic situation and its potential effects on Algonquin Highlands.

This update includes information regarding the Dorset Tower and Township Boat Launches.

Dorset Tower:

It is anticipated the Dorset Tower will remain closed for the 2021 season; however all efforts will be made to open the property if the Township feels it can meet all the expectations of the HKPR Public Health Unit and can adequately and appropriately provide a safe experience for staff and the public.

Township Boat Lauches:

Public access to water including all Township boat launches and Haliburton Highlands Water Trails access points remain open for permitted uses. It is up to the user to ensure that they are following all provincially mandated COVID-19 regulations, which change frequently. For an update on current regulations please visit the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit website.

Survey Request: Residents of Muskoka

Graham Donald — Wed, 30 Sep 2020 12:37:51 GMT

Dear Muskoka Seasonal Residents and Cottage Association Members:

We are seeking your help to complete a short survey on your plans for the upcoming fall and winter seasons. Your feedback and input will help us and the business community better understand what we might expect going forward. The COVID pandemic has placed us all into very new circumstances and we realize travel, work locations and leisure activities are now very different. Please take a moment to complete our short survey (approx. 3 min to complete), it will be open until the end of day, Wednesday, October 7, 2020.

https://www.engagemuskoka.ca/mertf/survey_tools/muskoka-residency-survey

Together we all share a common love for Muskoka and all of what it has to offer. It is our hope that you will consider spending more time here and we look forward to hearing from you. Should you or anyone have any questions or require any further information on this survey, please contact David Sword of the District Municipality of Muskoka as follows: david.sword@muskoka.on.ca. You can be assured of his interest and enthusiasm.

Thank you in advance for your time.

Sincerely,

Terry Glover, Mayor, Lake of Bays
Phil Harding, Mayor, Muskoka Lakes
Paul Kelly, Mayor, Gravenhurst

Update on Electricity Pricing from FOCA

Graham Donald — Mon, 21 Sep 2020 21:12:21 GMT

The Federation of Ontario Cottagers' Associations (FOCA – of which RLCA is a member), has been campaigning to keep seasonal cottagers' electricity rates down. An update was issued by FOCA recently in response to a recent Ontario Energy Board ruling. Details are here: https://foca.on.ca/electricity-pricing/

AGM Minutes & Landing Update

Graham Donald — Wed, 02 Sep 2020 20:11:09 GMT

We're pleased to say that our first-ever Annual General Meeting via Zoom went very smoothly on Wednesday, August 19th.

In fact, there was a lot of interaction and opportunity for members to ask questions and discuss answers and ideas.

Draft minutes of the meeting can be found below.

Not surprisingly, there was a lot of interest and discussion about the Raven Lake Landing at Hwy. 35.

Out-going President and Landing Committee Chairperson, Scott Lewis, provided an in-depth update on our progress to securing legal access to docking. You will find attached a summary of his presentation.

We have begun compiling a list of all those water access property owners who are interested in securing a boat slip at the landing when they become available. If you would like to be added to the list, please email info@ravenlake.org with your request and include your municipal (blue sign) lot address.

This AGM marked the completion of Scott Lewis's 3-year term as RLCA president. Scott invested a tremendous amount of time and energy in the Association over the past 3 years (and before), and we are very grateful for his contribution. He will remain on the board in the position of immediate Past President and continue to lead our efforts to secure landing access.

The new RLCA president is Sean Hungerford. He'll chair his first board meeting on September 9th.

Please don't hesitate to be in touch with any comments or questions to info@ravenlake.org.

Best wishes for a warm and colourful fall,

– Raven Lake Cottagers' Association

Minutes AGM August 19 2020.pdf

2020 RLCA AGM LANDING ACCESS REPORT 8-19-2020.pdf

Raven Lake Cottagers Association 2020 Annual General Meeting

Graham Donald — Thu, 13 Aug 2020 16:16:59 GMT

We hope this email finds you healthy and safe and enjoying this summer that has been like no other in so many ways.

We are writing to inform you that your Raven Lake Cottagers Association has been active and working on your behalf throughout the Covid19 crisis, meeting virtually via online to discuss issues that are important to us all. It has been disappointing not to have our annual Regatta and corn roast, but keeping us all healthy and safe is our top priority. And we have been keeping you informed on issues through email, our Facebook page, and newsletter.

The RLCA Annual General Meeting will be held Wednesday August 19^th 7-9pm via Zoom.

The meeting agenda, minutes from last year’s AGM, and other relevant documents will be distributed via email prior to the meeting.

For those who are unfamiliar with Zoom, this is an online program which allows for multiple users to “attend” a meeting. If you have Internet access, you can join via computer to watch the meeting and participate via online chat. You will not be seen on video; therefore, you may not need a fast Internet connection. If you cannot join via computer, you will be able to join via telephone (however, please note that telephone attendees will only be able to listen to the meeting and not be able to pose questions or vote).

Attendance at this virtual meeting requires that you register with your name and email address. You can register now, here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_9CAHufKIQQyKdNGvj2fy9A

After you register, you will receive details via email for how to join the Zoom meeting via Internet or telephone.

As is our practice, all cottagers are welcome to attend. Should there be an issue that requires a vote, participants who have paid their membership fee and are joining online (not via telephone) are eligible to participate in that vote.

We encourage you to attend the Annual Meeting as there is important information to share with you. Until then, we send you all the best for your summer!

Safe Boating on Raven Lake

Graham Donald — Thu, 25 Jun 2020 18:53:14 GMT

As Raven Lakers we really love being on the water. Since many of us have water access cottages, we depend on boating to access our properties. We also use our boats for sports and leisure activities. It is important to all of us that we are able to use Raven Lake with the expectation of safe and responsible behaviour from ourselves, our family, friends and neighbours that we share the water with.

With summer now officially here, we would like to remind everyone to be safe and courteous on the water. There have been several close calls with boaters not following the "rules of the road" recently and none of us want to have a tragedy on Raven Lake. A few tips for safe boating on the water:

Have sufficient life jackets for every passenger onboard
Always use proper navigation lights between dusk and dawn (red/green on the bow, white on the stern)
Don't drink and drive
Pay attention to your speed, noise and wake
Watch for and take proper care around swimmers, kayakers, paddle boarders and canoers
Try to avoid using the same part of the lake for towed sports all day
Take care around boats towing a skier, wakeboarder, tuber, etc

Some helpful guides for boating in Canada:

Transport Canada Safe Boating Guide: https://www.tc.gc.ca/media/documents/marinesafety/TP-511e.pdf
Boater Exam Online Course: https://www.boaterexam.com/canada/education/
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada Boat Driving Safety Course: https://waterskicanada.ca/wp-content/uploads/Boat-Driving-Safety.pdf

LETTER: Muskoka leaders call for end to 'us versus them' in COVID-19

Graham Donald — Sun, 10 May 2020 15:42:26 GMT

A message from Muskoka’s mayors and the district chair to all our residents. Read it here: https://www.muskokaregion.com/opinion-story/9973367-letter-muskoka-leaders-call-for-end-to-us-versus-them-in-covid-19/

Message from the Muskoka Medical Officer of Health

Graham Donald — Tue, 05 May 2020 18:06:58 GMT

As cases of COVID-19 continue to arise in Simcoe and Muskoka and elsewhere in the province, I ask your assistance in supporting and sharing the Ontario government’s and Chief Medical Officer of Health’s message (most recently communicated in correspondence to Medical Officers of Health on May 1, 2020) to stay safe and stay home at your primary residence. I know that normally at this time of year many people begin spending time at their cottages, enjoying the natural beauty of Ontario’s lake-lands. However this is a year like no other, in which we have all been managing pandemic COVID-19, which is still circulating in our communities, particularly in larger urban centres.

With the arrival of the seasonal residents to Simcoe County and the District of Muskoka we would also expect to see the potential for COVID-19 to affect more people in our rural and small urban areas. It is also important to know that health care services, though not strained at this time, could become overwhelmed with the arrival of many people to cottages who may be incubating the virus as they arrive. Having a case of COVID-19 begin in a more remote location would make it more difficult for people to obtain the timely medical care that they would need.

For these reasons I ask that you inform your association members of my concerns by sharing this message with them and ask that they postpone going to their cottages, even for a day trip, until a later time when the leadership within the public health system communicates that the rate of COVID-19 transmission is truly under control and sufficiently low to not pose these hazards.

I am aware that despite my message to stay home, there will still be some people who will make the decision to go to their cottage. If that is what they choose to do despite the request to not do so, they need to ensure that they follow public health measures, including: physical distancing of at least 2 metres from other people; staying at their cottage as much as possible; purchasing food and medications in their own community before arriving at their cottage and limiting their visits to the local community for essential shopping only; no gatherings of more than five people unless they are all from the same household; practicing proper hand washing and cough hygiene, including frequent handwashing; and self-isolating if they develop symptoms.

For more information on COVID-19 please view the information that we have provided on our website at www.simcoemuskokahealth.com, contact us on our Health Connection Line at 1-877-721-7520 or by email, or follow us on Twitter or Facebook.

Please be safe and be well this spring and summer.

Sincerely,

Dr. Charles Gardner, MD, CCFP, MHSc, FRCPC

Medical Officer of Health and Chief Executive Officer

t: 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520 x: 7219

e: Charles.Gardner@smdhu.org

Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, 15 Sperling Dr, Barrie ON L4M 6K9

Ontario Essential Services Update Regarding Marinas

Graham Donald — Wed, 15 Apr 2020 11:43:25 GMT

On April 3, 2020, the province of Ontario updated its list of "essential services" to include marinas, "but only to the extent that the marina is necessary to enable individuals to access their primary place of residence."

Details Are Here.

Should Torontonians head to cottage country during the pandemic?

Graham Donald — Wed, 15 Apr 2020 11:37:16 GMT

“Stop being selfish”: Should Torontonians head to cottage country during the pandemic? We asked the mayor of Muskoka Lakes – Toronto Life Article

Read Full Article Here

Algonquin Highlands COVID-19 UPDATE

Graham Donald — Fri, 10 Apr 2020 16:45:47 GMT

Algonquin Highlands COVID-19 UPDATE – Boat Launches, Enforcement and Event Cancellation

Haliburton County currently has two confirmed cases of COVID-19. With early spring weather and Easter weekend quickly approaching, local medical professionals continue to remind us that this is a critical period in the advancement of the virus.

Read Full Press Release Here

Remembering Barbara Bland Lewis

Graham Donald — Fri, 20 Sep 2019 17:53:23 GMT

May 22, 1931 - September 18, 2019

Peacefully, at Cambridge Memorial Hospital, following a brief illness in her 89th year. Barbara had a long and joyful life filled with love, laughter and family. Mother of Pat (Hugh Middleton), Sandy (Mike Fitzgibbon), Cathryn (Steve Mantione), and Scott (Marilou Roth). Grandmother of nine: Alex, Torey (Marc Hersh), and Jake Middleton, Caitlin (Chris Dewar), Hilary (Matt Van Dyck) FitzGibbon, Andrew (Alannah Bruns), Carly and Jane Mantione and Jack Lewis.

Barbara was born in Mississauga and grew up in Toronto and Guelph, Ontario. She graduated from St. Clements School and married the love of her life, Jim Lewis in 1952. Following his death in 1984, Barbara lived independently and was actively involved with the IODE (she was a founding member of the Dr. Healy Willan Chapter), the Canadian Club, French lessons and her walking and bridge group friends. Her stroke in 2012 left her with profound aphasia and apraxia, the inability to speak, read or write coherently as well as the loss of her driving license. She met these challenges with optimism and grace and amazingly overall good cheer, often overlooking that all she was saying was “yesterday”, “today” or “absolutely wonderful.” Her favourite place on earth was the cottage on Raven Lake where she summered with family, friends and dogs since 1963. She will be sorely missed.

Friends may call at the Turner & Porter “Peel” Chapel, 2180 Hurontario St., Mississauga (Hwy 10 N. of Q.E.W) on Monday from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. A Funeral Service will be held at St. Peter’s Erindale Anglican Church, 3141 Mississauga Rd. (at Dundas St. W., on the hill) on Tuesday, September 24, 2019 at 11 a.m. Following the service a Celebration of Life will follow at the Toronto Golf Club, 1305 Dixie Road, Mississauga, from 1 - 4 p.m. Private Interment. For those who wish, donations may be made to IODE, the Heart & Stroke Foundation, or the Humane Society. Online condolences may be made through www.turnerporter.ca

News re Blue Green Algae

Ross Lawrence — Fri, 13 Sep 2019 20:09:10 GMT

https://www.algonquinhighlands.ca/news/Blue_Green_Algae-identify_and_act-2019.pdf

Hydro One Seasonal Electricity Customers

Ross Lawrence — Thu, 15 Aug 2019 23:14:59 GMT

Update: Hydro One Seasonal Electricity Customers

This week, Hydro One has distributed an email letter to their Seasonal Customers, related to the Ontario Energy Board's (OEB) proposal to eliminate the Seasonal rate class, which will negatively impact many FOCA members.

See a copy of the letter, important links, and background information about this pending change, here: https://foca.on.ca/electricity-pricing/

FOCA expects the OEB to issue a decision on this matter by late August 2019. As we have done in the past, FOCA will be advising our members of the ruling, and will be undertaking whatever opportunity is available to intervene with the OEB to represent the interests of our members.

NOTICE Special Meeting Township Strategic Visioning Session

Ross Lawrence — Thu, 15 Aug 2019 16:04:04 GMT

NOTICE Special Meeting Township Strategic Visioning Session

TAKE NOTICE that Council will hold a Special meeting on August 27, 2019 commencing at 9:00 a.m. in the Township’s Council Chambers at 1123 North Shore Road, Algonquin Highlands, ON.

The purpose of the meeting is to conduct a Strategic Visioning Session for the Township.

Dated this 15th day of August, 2019.

Dawn Newhook, Municipal Clerk
Township of Algonquin Highlands
1123 North Shore Road
Algonquin Highlands, ON K0M 1J1
T: (705) 489-2379 x333
E: dnewhook@algonquinhighlands.ca

NOTICE: Raven Lake Cottagers' Association AGM: Saturday August 17, 10 AM

Graham Donald — Mon, 12 Aug 2019 16:20:56 GMT

The 2019 RLCA AGM is coming up on Saturday, August 17th at 10 AM. As always, the AGM will be held at the Sandy Beach and be followed by the Annual Corn Roast. ALL ARE WELCOME!

The Agenda for the 2019 AGM as well as minutes and other documents from the 2018 AGM can be found here.

Raven Lake Landing FAQs

Graham Donald — Wed, 07 Aug 2019 21:10:18 GMT

Frequently Asked Questions about the Raven Lake Landing

Q1. Why are changes being proposed at the Landing?

A1. The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forests (MNRF) has notified the RLCA that the landing is owned by MNRF and that all of the stick docks are “an illegal occupation of Crown Land”. Since 2007, the MNRF has consistently informed RLCA that we are at risk of having the docks removed at any time. Status quo is not an option.

It is the RLCA’s opinion that if changes are to be made, any solution must be of a scale to accommodate the boats of all water access residents who wish to have one.

Q2. What has been RLCA’s mandate to negotiate with the MNRF?

A2. At the RLCA AGM on August 12, 2012, the following motion was passed:

“Be it resolved that:

This Association endorses and approves the actions of the Board of Directors to date with respect to the landing, and directs the Board to develop and advance a long-term plan to ensure that safe and secure docking and parking is available at the landing to the Raven Lake community, including opening discussions and negotiations with the MNR, townships, and others having jurisdiction. Further, the Board is authorized to draw up to $3000 of the Association’s funds as may be necessary in connection with expenses related to the development of this plan.”

The motion was carried unanimously by the membership at the meeting.

Q3. What has RLCA been doing to respond to MNRF?

A3. The RLCA has been in discussions with the MNRF in an effort to represent the interests of landing users and cottage owners since 2012. The goal being to negotiate a resolution that would be presented by the RLCA to water access residents for their approval and transition to a situation with the appropriate rights and tenure to install docks attached to the MNRF-owned Raven Lake Landing,

Q4. Where is the process at now?

A4. In 2015, the MNRF requested and the RLCA submitted a proposal for discussion to the MNRF. This proposal suggested that MNRF offer to the RLCA a shoreline lease which would allow for a new docking system to be installed to accommodate up to 120 slips (one for every water-access property), pending approval and permits from the Township of Lake of Bays. The proposal asked that along with the shoreline lease, we be granted the right to park vehicles overnight in the parking area.

No final offer has been received from the MNRF and no decisions have been made or agreed to by the RLCA.

In 2017, the MNRF responded by saying that it would “not be opposed” to the proposal pending the outcome from the following steps:

Consultations with First Nations;
Environmental Assessments of both water and land portions of the Landing area;
Support for the new docks from the Township of Lake of Bays and potentially Algonquin Highlands;
Completion of a Public Comment period with the local community, primarily the residents of Raven Lake

At this point, the MNRF has undertaken a number of environmental studies which have concluded that “no significant adverse environmental effects are expected” to the lands and waters at the Landing. We are presently in the middle of a Public Consultation with residents. Please see the “MNRF Public Notice Requesting Input to a Screening Process” posted on www.Ravenlake.org and on the bulletin board at the Landing. No decisions have been made but it has been determined by the MNRF that the status quo is unacceptable and that the existing docks could be removed by the MNRF at any time.

Q5. How much will this cost?

A5. The exact costs are unknown at present given that no final decisions have been made by MNRF or the Townships. It is expected that in order to issue building permits for the docks, the Township will prescribe that the docks be built to meet the Building Code for a public docking area. In addition, RLCA will want to ensure that the docks be designed and constructed in a manner to minimize ongoing maintenance costs and ensure longevity. The costs will be divided on a pro-rata basis between Raven Lake water access cottagers who wish to have a dock at the landing. There will also be an annual rental and maintenance fee which would include the cost of indemnifying the MNRF and RLCA through liability insurance.

Q6. Has there been any feedback from the Townships of Lake of Bays and/or Algonquin Highlands?

A6. The RLCA has met with the mayors (and others) of both Townships. Both responded in the same way. That we have been smart to get ahead of the situation with the MNRF and that they are surprised that our situation has been allowed to continue for so long. Also, that with all of the changes that are being made at the provincial level to existing personnel and programs, we should aim to get the matter settled as soon as possible.

Q7. What will happen to my dock?

A7. At some point we expect that it will be ordered to be removed by MNRF along with all stick docks.

Q6. How will I get access to a new dock?

A6. Once the RLCA has agreement from the MNRF that it will issue a shoreline lease, application will be made to the Townships for permits to install new docks. Of course, the RLCA will offer slips to all water access residents along with detailed costs to purchase, install and estimates of annual maintenance fees prior to proceeding. Making a deposit will establish a resident’s right to have a slip. Since no decisions have been made by MNRF the dock allocation process is unknown.

Q7. When will we know and when will new docks be installed?

A7. The timing is up to MNRF and the Township of Lake of Bays. There is no exact timeline at this point. It may take another year or more.

Q8. How can I learn more?

A8. The number one way to learn more and stay engaged is through the RLCA website and Facebook page and attending the RLCA AGM (this year held on August 17, 2019) where this is discussed each year. Periodic updates will be posted at the Landing Bulletin Board and on the www.RLCA.org website

Enhanced Security at Landfill Sites

Ross Lawrence — Fri, 26 Jul 2019 20:02:14 GMT

Enhanced Security at Landfills

The Township of Algonquin Highlands has issued the following notice:

The Township of Algonquin Highlands takes workplace safety very seriously and is committed to providing work spaces that are safe and harassment-free.

Sadly, incidents of worker harassment have been on the rise, particularly at our Waste Disposal Sites. There have been increased incidents of illegal dumping, failure to pay applicable fees, dumping without authorization, damage to property, theft, and other by-law infractions. In an increasing number of situations, attempts by landfill workers to manage these situations are met with verbal abuse, harassment and threats. This is unacceptable.

Waste disposal site rules and regulations exist to protect workers, protect the public and to protect the environment. It is required that every user of municipal waste disposal sites does so with respect and in accordance with rules and regulations.

To help ensure Algonquin Highlands’ waste disposal sites and workers are safe and secure, the Township has reached out to the OPP to conduct increased patrols at the sites. In the next few months the public may see an increased police presence at Township of Algonquin Highlands waste disposal sites.

Landfill workers have been authorized to note or photograph the license plates of those behaving badly and the OPP will be asked to follow up.

For the safety and security of all, please keep in mind these key points:

All workers are entitled to a workplace free of harassment;
Any person who is abusive or disrespectful to staff may be refused service;
Access to waste disposal sites can be suspended, restricted or terminated if rules and regulations are violated

MNRF Public Notice Regarding the Landing

Graham Donald — Wed, 05 Jun 2019 15:08:35 GMT

Greetings Raven Lakers!

We would like to draw your attention to a request from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry in response to our Application for Crown Tenure at the Landing.

The MNRF is looking for comments on our application to lease a narrow strip of land along the shoreline at the centre of the Landing for the purposes of installing a suitable number of fingers docks to meet the needs of all water access residents of the Raven Lake.

The objective of our Application is to satisfy the MNRF's concerns about our lack of legal tenure currently, mitigate potential liabilities arising from the existing stick docks, and establish the right of water access residents to leave their boats at the landing.

Physically, the change at the landing will be limited to the installation of the new fingers slips for boats. It is anticipated that there will be no change to the actual use or traffic at the Landing.

You can download and read the MNRF Public Notice here.

Looking forward to seeing you at the Lake!

Best regards,
Scott Lewis
President
Raven Lake Cottagers' Association

Blue-Green Algae Blooms in Haliburton County

Graham Donald — Thu, 27 Sep 2018 14:50:17 GMT

There have been multiple reports of Blue-Green Algae on lakes across Haliburton County this month. Although no sightings have been reported on Raven Lake, the Coalition of Haliburton Property Owners Association has provided information about what to look for and what to do if you see any. Details are here: https://www.cohpoa.org/lake-health-3/algae-and-algal-blooms/

FIRE BAN

Ross Lawrence — Mon, 09 Jul 2018 19:42:13 GMT

Total Fire Ban now in effect for all of Haliburton County

The Fire Chiefs of Haliburton County have issued a Total Fire Ban which will encompass the entire area of Haliburton County (Municipality of Dysart et al, Township of Minden Hills, Township of Algonquin Highlands and Township of Highlands East).

Effective immediately Haliburton County is under a total fire ban. Dry condition, high heat, and the lack of forecasted precipitation has led to an extreme fire risk. All permits are cancelled, all open fires and campfires are prohibited during the fire ban.

If you have questions or concerns please contact
Mike Cavanagh, Fire Chief
Township of Algonquin Highlands
(705) 766-0010
mcavanagh@algonquinhighlands.ca

Taxes

Ross Lawrence — Sun, 15 Apr 2018 20:41:13 GMT

Good news. The latest issue of the Minden Times reports that the Algonquin Highlands council has fixed a tax rate (for AH, County and education) that is only a 0.5% increase over last year.