Council Highlights September 3rd and 8th, 2025

The Township of Huron-Kinloss Committee of the Whole meeting was held on September 3, 2025, and the Council Meeting took place on September 8, 2025. Both meetings were held in Council Chambers at 21 Queen Street in Ripley at 7:00 p.m. Highlights from these meetings include:

Ontario Clean Water Agency – Lakeshore Drinking Water System Update

The Committee of the Whole received a presentation from Paul Sherban of the Ontario Clean Water Agency (OCWA) on the Second Quarter Operations Report for the Lakeshore Drinking Water System.

For the period of April to June, the system operated well with no compliance issues reported. All water quality samples collected during the quarter met provincial standards, and routine maintenance was completed across all well houses. During the same period, two community complaints—one regarding discoloured water and another related to low pressure—were addressed and resolved through flushing and testing.

OCWA also completed its annual internal and external audits during this time, with no issues identified. 

Water System Financial Plan 2026 to 2031

The Committee of the Whole received a report from Treasurer Christine Heinisch outlining the proposed Water System Financial Plan, required for renewing the Township’s municipal drinking water license. The financial plan recommends a 6% annual rate increase over five years to support long-term infrastructure needs, including a new elevated water tower planned for 2030.

To help cover the cost of the new water tower, the financial plan proposes borrowing $4 million through a long-term loan (called a debenture). No grant funding is expected at this time. Staff noted that actual rate increases will be reviewed annually. A motion to adopt the plan will be brought forward at a future meeting.

New Mayoral Budget Process

The Committee of the Whole received a report outlining changes to the municipal budget process under the Province’s “strong mayor” legislation. Effective May 1, 2025, the Mayor is now responsible for preparing and presenting the proposed budget by February 1 each year.

Mayor Don Murray noted that he would like the 2026 budget process to follow the Township’s traditional approach. However, the new legislation introduces strict timelines that must now be followed. The report outlines these timelines, including deadlines for Council to propose amendments, for the Mayor to issue any vetoes, and for Council to potentially override those vetoes.

The proposed 2026 budget will be distributed to Council by January 19, 2026, with the first budget meeting scheduled for January 26, 2026. A visual summary of the new process and key dates is included in the report.

2026 International Plowing Match and Rural Expo

Council received a presentation from Gord Lang and Andy Dales on behalf of the 2026 International Plowing Match and Rural Expo. The event is scheduled to take place from September 22 to 26, 2026, on 800 acres west of Walkerton. It is expected to welcome more than 200,000 visitors and will feature a wide range of activities, including parades, concerts, demonstrations, vendors, and plowing competitions.

The organizing committee includes over 1,800 volunteers working across more than 60 subcommittees. Opening ceremonies are expected to feature several political dignitaries, including the Premier and other provincial and federal representatives.

The delegation outlined the event’s goals, which include generating $3 million in revenue and distributing up to $1 million in profits across Bruce County. Organizers are currently seeking sponsorships, promoting the event through local businesses and social media, and hosting fundraising efforts.

Council was asked to support the event by promoting it through municipal channels, providing access to community facilities, assisting with signage and airport access, and considering financial or in-kind contributions. Municipalities across Bruce County are also invited to participate in a shared exhibit during the event.

For more information or to apply as a volunteer, visit www.plowingmatch.org/ipm2026. Questions can be directed to the IPM 2026 Volunteer Committee at volunteer2026ipm@gmail.com.

Public Meeting – Black Creek Municipal Drain

Council held a public meeting under the Drainage Act to review the Black Creek Municipal Drain Report, prepared by R.J. Burnside & Associates. Engineer Greg Nancekivell presented the report, followed by questions and comments from Council and members of the public. Property owners affected by the proposed drain improvements were given the opportunity to share their views and provide input to help inform Council’s decision.

Following the discussion, Council referred the report back to the Engineer for revisions. A revised version will be brought forward at a future meeting for further consideration.

Upcoming Meetings

The next Township of Huron-Kinloss Council meeting is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. on September 15, 2025. This meeting will be held in Council Chambers at the Municipal Office, 21 Queen Street in Ripley.

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