Council Starts Planning for Heritage Days with Recreation and Festivals Committee

The March 11, 2025, council meeting began with a land acknowledgment, followed by approval of the agenda and minutes from the previous session. No conflicts of interest were declared, and no delegations were in attendance.

Council reviewed several financial matters, including general accounts and payroll payments. Concerns were raised about provincial funding, which is falling short of the financial needs of local governments. A motion was passed requesting a provincial financial review to address long-term municipal sustainability. Funding was also approved for representatives to attend the upcoming Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association (NOMA) Conference in April, along with a modest sponsorship for the event.

A major focus was ongoing infrastructure work—particularly at the wastewater treatment plant, which remains under a state of emergency due to needed repairs. A new issue with the water line was identified, prompting debate over whether it should remain under emergency status or be added to the 2025 capital plan. Repairs are set to resume in the spring.

Renovations at the senior centre hit a snag when the original contractor withdrew due to budget limitations. Council voted to revise the project scope and issue a new public request for proposals (RFP) to attract more bids. To reduce costs, the Director of Operations recommended managing the project internally.

Council also discussed plans for the 2025 Heritage Days festival. A live band was proposed, and members debated between hosting the performance at the community hall or the outdoor pavilion. Concerns around ticketing an outdoor space led to creative ideas, including enclosing the area. Council approved the band booking and left the final logistics to the event planning committee.

Committee reports followed, with updates from the Recreation and Festivals Committee and the Library Board—both actively coordinating events and programming.

A proposal to lower the annual fire permit fee from $30 to $20 was considered, noting that permits are rarely used in winter. Council supported the change, to be finalized at the next meeting.

Reports on water and wastewater operations showed progress, including improved sludge management and upgraded equipment. Council also received updates from the District Social Services Board (DSAB), which approved the 2025 municipal levy and backed efforts to accelerate landlord-tenant resolutions in social housing.

The meeting concluded with the approval of all motions, and members moved into a closed session to discuss confidential matters.