Council Highlights - November 17, 2025

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

• Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority – Draft Updates to Regulated Area Mapping
• 2026 Consolidated Rates and Fees By-Law
• 2026 Water and Wastewater Fees By-Law

The full agenda and supporting documents can be viewed on the Township of Huron-Kinloss website.

Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority – Draft Updates to Regulated Area Mapping

Council received a presentation from the Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority (SVCA) about proposed updates to regulated area mapping within the Township. These updates are part of a province-wide initiative to improve flood hazard identification and mapping accuracy.

What are regulated areas?

Regulated area maps show where SVCA has oversight because of natural hazards such as flooding, erosion, wetlands, and unstable soils. If you plan to build, renovate, or change the grade of your property in these areas, you may need a permit from SVCA.

Why is mapping changing?

The updates are based on new floodplain studies completed through the Flood Hazard Identification and Mapping Program (FHIMP), which used modern engineering and federal funding to improve accuracy. The changes replace older “screening areas” (broad zones flagged for possible review) with more precise “regulated areas.” This means property owners will have clearer information about whether SVCA rules apply.

What’s changing?

Overall, the adjustments are as follows: about 13 hectares of land were added to the regulated area, and about 13 hectares were removed. In addition, 71 hectares of screening areas were converted to regulated areas, and 27 hectares were removed entirely. These refinements help streamline permit reviews and reduce delays while continuing to protect people and property from flood and erosion risks.

What does this mean for residents?

If your property falls within a regulated area, SVCA approval is required for most construction or site changes. Development in high-risk hazard zones (such as floodplains) is generally not allowed, except in limited cases with strict conditions.

You can view the updated maps online at https://www.saugeenconservation.ca/hkmap.

While Council received this update for information, SVCA is the authority responsible for hazard mapping and permitting. The Township’s role is to share information, not to approve or enforce these regulations.

For questions about your specific property or permit requirements, please contact:

Matt Armstrong
Manager of Environmental Planning and Regulations
Email: m.armstrong@svca.on.ca
Website: https://www.saugeenconservation.ca

2026 Consolidated Rates and Fees By-Law

Council passed the 2026 Consolidated Rates and Fees By-Law, which sets updated fees for municipal services effective January 1, 2026. The by-law covers a wide range of services, including building permits, planning applications, administrative fees, and recreation programs.

Why are fees updated?

Rates and fees are reviewed regularly to ensure they reflect the actual cost of delivering services. This helps the Township maintain financial sustainability and continue providing high-quality services without placing undue burden on taxpayers. Adjustments also keep rates fair and consistent with neighbouring municipalities.

What does this mean for residents?

If you are planning a building project, applying for a zoning change, or booking a community facility, the updated fees will apply starting January 1, 2026. These changes support essential services such as building inspections, planning reviews, and recreational programming that benefit the community.

View the full 2026 Consolidated Rates and Fees schedule

2026 Water and Wastewater Fees By-Law

Council approved the 2026 Water and Wastewater Fees By-Law, which updates rates for water and wastewater services starting January 1, 2026. These changes apply to all Township water systems (Lakeshore, Ripley, Lucknow, Whitechurch) and wastewater systems (Ripley and Lucknow).

Why are rates changing?

The adjustments reflect the actual cost of operating and maintaining water and wastewater systems, as well as long-term capital planning for infrastructure upgrades. This includes replacing aging pipes, maintaining treatment facilities, and ensuring compliance with provincial standards. Updating rates now helps avoid costly emergency repairs and supports reliable service for residents.

What does this mean for residents?

If you receive water or wastewater services from the Township, your annual service rate will change starting January 1, 2026

View the complete 2026 Water and Wastewater Rates schedule.

Upcoming Meetings

The next Township of Huron-Kinloss Commitee of the Whole meeting is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. on December 1st. This meeting will be held in Council Chambers at the Municipal Office, 21 Queen Street in Ripley.

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