Council Highlights May 5th 2025

The Township of Huron-Kinloss Committee of the Whole meeting was held in Council Chambers at 21 Queen Street in Ripley at 7:00 p.m. Highlights from the meeting include:

2025 Budget Amendment

Council received a report outlining proposed amendments to the 2025 budget following cost savings of approximately $455,000 from recent tenders. The savings will be used to fund two additional projects: asphalt paving on Concession 12 and Willoughby Street in Lucknow, and remediation of a drainage easement on Parkplace. Council authorized staff to provide public notice of the budget amendment and to prepare a by-law for its formal adoption. The amendment does not require an additional tax levy and falls within Council’s current authority under the Municipal Act.

Community Services

Council received an update from the Community Services Department highlighting several initiatives, including progress on the Ripley Dog Park, where the final layout has been approved by the working group and preparations are underway for tree transplanting and fencing. Staff also shared that trail signage designs are nearly complete, with tentative approval for $16,000 in grant funding from RTO7, aiming for fall installation. The annual Lakeshore property owners’ letter has been updated to include details on the Golf Car Pilot project and will be mailed to eligible residents. Finally, the Township’s annual community engagement meeting is scheduled for June 18th at 7:00 p.m. at the Ripley-Huron Community Centre.

Lucknow Kinsmen Support Requests

Council approved continued support for the 2025 Lucknow Super Pull and Music in the Fields events, organized by the Lucknow Kinsmen, with in-kind assistance including grading, dust control, road barricades, and limited trucking services. Staff noted that landfill tipping fees will no longer be waived for either event to encourage waste reduction in light of increasing disposal costs and the future closure of the Huron Landfill. While support remains consistent with previous years, adjustments were made to the level of service based on staff availability and event growth.

Economic Development and Tourism

Council received the Economic Development and Tourism quarterly update, highlighting recent business support efforts including a well-attended “Let’s Talk Tariffs” session in Lucknow, continued downtown revitalization work in Ripley, and successful grant outcomes for seven local businesses through Spruce the Bruce. The Township also launched the 2025 Discovery Guide and is preparing to roll out “Back Forty Bites,” a new eat-local campaign aimed at celebrating and promoting Huron-Kinloss food destinations. While the Ripley Business Community group has formally disbanded, community events will continue through new partnerships, and the Township remains committed to supporting Ripley businesses.

Boiler Beach Road Parking Restrictions

Council received a report on traffic and parking concerns along Boiler Beach Road and approved an amendment to the Traffic and Parking By-Law to introduce new 'No Parking' zones on sections of the west side of the road. These changes aim to improve safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers during the busy summer season, particularly where vehicles currently cannot park without impeding the travelled lane. Approximately 1,950 metres will be designated as no-parking areas, while 1,700 metres will remain available for parking. Signage will be installed this summer, and staff will continue to monitor the area for any further required adjustments.

Upcoming Meetings

The next Township of Huron-Kinloss Council meeting is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 21st, 2025 (due to the Victora Day holiday). This meeting will be held in Council Chambers at the Municipal Office, 21 Queen Street in Ripley.

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