Schreiber Council Consults with Town Planner Over Shipping Containers on Residential Property

During the Council and Committee of the Whole meeting on September 9, 2025, members addressed a full agenda that included delegations, departmental reports, and a series of resolutions. The meeting opened with approval of the agenda and a land acknowledgment before moving into the first delegation from Good Energy, which presented a small business retrofit program. The initiative provides $3,000 in free lighting equipment to small businesses, along with additional instant rebates. The presenter outlined potential upgrades for several municipal facilities, including the Schreiber Arena, Municipal Centre, and Rec Centre, noting that while some options require higher upfront costs, they would result in significant annual energy savings. Council was advised that decisions on participation should be made soon to lock in current prices and rebates, which are only guaranteed until the end of 2026.

The second delegation came from Robert Miller, the town’s planner, who addressed concerns around a proposed bylaw governing the use of shipping containers on residential property. The draft bylaw would prohibit containers in urban residential areas, particularly on lots smaller than one acre, which conflicts with the views of many residents. Miller noted that no provincial standard exists for this issue and that bylaws can be tailored to community preferences. He cautioned that while allowing containers could satisfy public demand, it might also lead to disputes if large containers are placed close to neighboring properties. Early feedback suggests most residents support permitting storage containers on residential lots.

Council then received departmental updates. A new conference system was installed to replace outdated equipment and improve Zoom connectivity, while a revised seating arrangement now allows better viewing of conference calls. Council also approved the transfer of budgeted funds into reserves for infrastructure, fire trucks, water and sewer, and the landfill. A 2009 Chevrolet Silverado was declared surplus and slated for disposal.

In other business, Council agreed to request that the Premier of Ontario reinstate $6,600 in annual funding for the North Superior OPP Detachment Board. They also approved the seasonal closure and winterization of the splash pad, discussed recent bear sightings, and reviewed amendments to the cemetery bylaw that formally prohibit winter burials. The meeting concluded with a closed session to resolve earlier confidential matters.