Community Development Wish List Presented To Council

This week’s meeting began with the formalities of opening, approval of the agenda, and review of previous meeting minutes. The various department reports were then presented, with CAO Jon Hall bringing forward the first item.

He provided a summary of the ROMA (Rural Ontario Municipal Association) Conference, where council members met with various ministries to discuss key topics affecting Terrace Bay and the area. Some of the items discussed included:

• Policing Costs: Terrace Bay’s policing costs have decreased compared to the previous year, but there is uncertainty about future discounts.

• Energy Transition: The town participated in discussions on energy expansion in Northern Ontario, including natural gas projects.

• Infrastructure Funding: Councilors advocated for infrastructure funding not tied to housing, and the Minister of Infrastructure announced a new program focusing on water and wastewater improvements.

• Housing & Economic Development: Officials discussed the need for seed funding for supportive housing and reviewed the province’s economic prosperity strategy.

• Healthcare & EMS: Concerns about doctor recruitment and emergency medical services were raised, especially regarding the need to allow ambulance drivers when only one paramedic is available.

• Forestry & Natural Resources: Discussions with the Ministry of Natural Resources yielded little new information, but officials reassured the council that ongoing efforts to support the sector continue.

Next up was a report from the bylaw enforcement officer summarizing his activities during the last eight-month period. The officer handled 42 complaints, issued 17 warnings, and laid five charges. He noted an increase in complaints over time, possibly as a result of easier online reporting and a growing number of new residents with different expectations for local governance.

Council then reviewed the Township’s five-year strategic plan, which includes four primary goals defined by the recent study:

1. Community Building – Creating a welcoming and connected community.

2. Infrastructure – Maintaining municipal buildings, roads, and water systems.

3. Economic Growth – Supporting local businesses and attracting new enterprises.

4. Collaborative Governance – Enhancing service delivery through cooperation.

The strategic plan was approved, and council members emphasized the importance of regular updates on progress.

Community Development Supervisor Luke Bedard presented his report, which included potential projects for a $200,000 grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation. Some of the proposed projects included:

• Replacing dehumidifiers in the arena and curling club.

• Upgrading the skate park.

• Expanding the Blackpath trail system.

• Enhancing playground accessibility.

• Supporting local sports organizations.

After discussion, the council prioritized replacing the curling club’s dehumidifier due to its aging condition and importance to the community.

The Special Projects Coordinator report was presented to inform council of the new Terrace Bay website. The project was completed under budget at a cost of $9,975, significantly less than the original $30,000 estimate. The new website launched in December 2024, with an improved web store and bilingual translation features added in January 2025.

The council accepted an $8,230 grant from the Ontario government for fire safety improvements. The funds will be used to purchase an extractor and decontamination pack for firefighter gear maintenance, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.

The future operations of Terrace Bay’s ski hill were brought up. The current volunteer organizers have announced plans to reduce their involvement after 14 years. The council agreed to provide administrative support for ski hill operations starting in the 2026 season.

During the question-and-answer session, a resident inquired about the implementation of the strategic plan, specifically whether an ad hoc committee would be created and if members of the public could participate. The council stated that no committee had been formed yet but that community engagement would be considered in the future.

Another resident raised concerns about winter access to local attractions, such as the Aguasabon Falls Boardwalk and the beach. The council explained that these areas are closed in the winter due to safety concerns, including snow accumulation and hazardous conditions. However, they acknowledged the importance of tourism and agreed to consider ways to enhance year-round accessibility.

A final question concerned the potential rebranding of Terrace Bay, as mentioned in the strategic plan. Council members clarified that this would be a refresh rather than a complete overhaul, with opportunities for community input.

The meeting concluded with councilors passing final motions, including those for the adoption of the strategic plan and fire protection grant agreement. The session then moved to in-camera to conclude confidential business matters.