Bruce County public meetings in 2024

Striking Committee

The Striking Committee will meet to approve minutes from previous meetings. The committee is also scheduled to enter a closed session to discuss the 2024 CAO Performance Evaluation Preparation and the approval of closed minutes from August 1, 2024.

• Approval of August 1 and December 12, 2024 meeting minutes
• Closed session for 2024 CAO Performance Evaluation Preparation
• Approval of August 1, 2024 closed minutes

Bruce County Council

The council will review two County Official Plan amendment applications—C-2024-005 from Peninsula Partners Group Inc. and C-2024-006 from Bruce Peninsula Stone Ltd., each with supporting site‑plan and environmental documents. The meeting will also adopt By‑law 2024‑072 to confirm the council’s proceedings and consider reports on the new Official Plan engagement, the Bruce C Project, and a memorandum of understanding with the Nuclear Innovation Institute.

• Official Plan Amendment C-2024-005 – Peninsula Partners Group Inc. (Subdivision S10 C5 L9 Z59)
• Official Plan Amendment C-2024-006 – Bruce Peninsula Stone Ltd. (Bury Road Quarry site plan C6 L10 Z61)
• Adoption of By‑law 2024‑072 to confirm council proceedings
• Report on New County Official Plan public and provincial staff engagement
• Memorandum of Understanding with Nuclear Innovation Institute (2025‑2027)

Bruce County Council held public meetings for two planning applications—a proposed settlement expansion by Peninsula Partners Group and a dimension stone quarry by Bruce Peninsula Stone Ltd.—but made no decisions on either, deferring recommendations until comments from the Saugeen Ojibway Nation and others are received. The only formal decisions were approving the December 5 minutes, appointing the 2025 Striking Committee, and confirming the meeting's proceedings.

• Approved December 5, 2024 minutes as circulated (C-2024-201)
• Appointed Warden, Deputy Warden, and Councillor Peabody to 2025 Striking Committee (C-2024-202)
• Appointed Warden Charbonneau to Bruce County Public Library Board (C-2024-202)
• Directed staff to report on filling Grey Bruce Board of Health vacancies (C-2024-202)
• Approved By-law 2024-072 confirming proceedings (C-2024-203)

Bruce County Public Library Board

The Bruce County Public Library Board will consider approval of the November 20, 2024 meeting minutes. It will review draft policies on community information and social media for 2024. The director will present a December 2024 report and a usage report, and a staffing update from a closed meeting will be reported. The next meeting is scheduled for February 19, 2025.

• Approve November 20, 2024 board minutes
• Review draft OPCommunityInformation2024 policy
• Review draft OPSocialMedia2024 policy
• Director's Report – December 2024
• Usage Report – December 2024

The Bruce County Public Library Board approved two operational policies: the Community Information policy and the Social Media policy, both as presented. The board also approved the minutes from the November 20, 2024 meeting and moved into a closed session for a staffing update. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes of November 20, 2024 meeting (carried)
• Approved Operational - Community Information policy as presented (carried)
• Approved Operational - Social Media policy as presented (carried)
• Moved into closed meeting under Public Libraries Act for personal matters (carried)

Striking Committee

The Striking Committee will review the composition of committees and boards to recommend appointments for 2025. The committee will also consider appointees to the Local Board of Health.

• Review of Committee and Board composition for 2025
• Recommendation for appointments to Boards and Committees 2025
• Consideration of Municipal Appointees to Local Board of Health

The Striking Committee reviewed 2025 appointments to committees and boards, keeping most unchanged. It recommended Warden Charbonneau replace Councillor Peabody on the Bruce County Public Library Board, and deferred Board of Health appointments to Council for further discussion. The Committee also noted the County's legal obligation to appoint municipal representatives to the Board of Health.

• No changes to 2025 appointments for Accessibility Advisory Committee, Community Drug and Alcohol Strategy, Green Ribbon Panel, Clean Energy Frontier, and SWIFT
• Recommended Warden Charbonneau replace Councillor Peabody on Bruce County Public Library Board
• Recommended Council discuss Board of Health appointments at next meeting
• Recommended Council appoint three members to Board of Health or provide staff direction if unable

Inaugural Meeting

The inaugural meeting of Bruce County Council will conduct the nomination and election or acclamation of the 2025 Warden and Deputy Warden. The meeting also includes the administration of oaths of office and the presentation of ceremonial items such as the Chain of Office and pins. The session concludes with remarks from the Warden and Deputy Warden before adjournment.

• Nomination for Warden
• Election or Acclamation of Warden
• Presentation of Chain of Office by Past Warden Chris Peabody
• Nomination for Deputy Warden
• Election or Acclamation of Deputy Warden

At the inaugural meeting, Bruce County Council acclaimed Luke Charbonneau as Warden and Don Murray as Deputy Warden for 2025, each by acclamation after single nominations. Both took their oaths of office. The meeting was procedural and ceremonial, with no other substantive decisions made.

• Luke Charbonneau acclaimed as Warden for 2025 (single nomination)
• Don Murray acclaimed as Deputy Warden for 2025 (single nomination)
• Oaths of office administered to Warden and Deputy Warden
• Meeting adjourned at 9:59 a.m.

Bruce County Council

The council will vote to approve By‑law 2024‑068 (Investment Policy), By‑law 2024‑069 (Amended Development Charges) and By‑law 2024‑070 (Multi‑Year Accessibility Plan). It will also direct staff to prepare Bruce County’s application to join the Ontario Food Cluster for 2025 and to authorize out‑of‑province travel for that work. The meeting includes routine approvals such as the November 21, 2024 minutes.

• Approve By‑law 2024‑068 – Investment Policy for County funds
• Approve By‑law 2024‑069 – Amendment to Development Charges by‑law
• Approve By‑law 2024‑070 – Multi‑Year Accessibility Plan (2024‑2028)
• Direct staff to apply for Ontario Food Cluster 2025 membership and authorize travel within budget
• Approve the November 21, 2024 council meeting minutes

Bruce County Council approved joining the Ontario Food Cluster for 2025, adopted three by-laws including an investment policy, development charges amendment, and multi-year accessibility plan, and referred several communications to staff. Bruce Power announced a $1 million commitment to the county's affordable housing program.

• Approved application to join Ontario Food Cluster for 2025 (C-2024-196)
• Adopted By-law 2024-068 Investment Policy (C-2024-197)
• Adopted By-law 2024-069 amending development charges by-law (C-2024-197)
• Adopted By-law 2024-070 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan (C-2024-197)
• Referred items a, b, c, e, f of communications to staff (C-2024-198)
• Adopted By-law 2024-071 to confirm proceedings (C-2024-199)

Bruce County Housing Corporation

The Bruce County Housing Corporation is meeting to decide on rent increases for community housing and the write-off of bad debt. The board is also considering the appointment of a Treasurer and Deputy Treasurer.

• Proposed 2.5% rent increase for community housing units effective April 1, 2025
• Proposed write-off of $42,640.12 for 2023 bad debt
• Appointment of Sam Dinsmore as Treasurer and Lynn Hatten as Deputy Treasurer
• Review of 2024 Q3 Arrears Report
• Update on Surplus Land Request for Information (RFI)

The Bruce County Housing Corporation board approved a 2.5% rent increase for community housing units effective April 1, 2025, aligning with the Ontario Rent Increase Guidelines. They also authorized a $42,640.12 bad debt write-off for 2023, created the Deputy Treasurer position, and appointed Lynn Hatten as Deputy Treasurer and Sam Dinsmore as Treasurer. All resolutions were carried unanimously.

• Approved 2.5% market rent increase for community housing units effective April 1, 2025 (carried)
• Approved $42,640.12 bad debt write-off for year ending Dec 31, 2023 (carried)
• Created Deputy Treasurer position and appointed Lynn Hatten as Deputy Treasurer (carried)
• Appointed Sam Dinsmore as Treasurer (carried)
• Adopted minutes of October 17, 2024 meeting (carried)

Bruce County Council

The council will vote to approve the County Official Plan Amendment C-2023-004 (Carson) and adopt By‑law 2024‑066 to implement it. It will also consider and adopt the Investment Policy, a Growth Studies Development Charge effective Jan 1 2025, the Multi‑Year Accessibility Plan, and endorse a Memorandum of Understanding for Planning Services. Additional reports on finances, child care, housing, and business plans will be presented for information.

• Adopt Official Plan Amendment C-2023-004 (Carson) – By‑law 2024‑066
• Approve Investment Policy – by‑law to adopt the policy
• Approve Growth Studies Development Charge starting Jan 1 2025 – by‑law to add charge
• Adopt Multi‑Year Accessibility Plan – by‑law to adopt the plan
• Endorse Planning Services Memorandum of Understanding – circulate to municipalities

Bruce County Council approved Official Plan Amendment C-2023-004, allowing 2128080 Ontario Inc. (Carson) to convert 13 hectares of prime agricultural land in Saugeen Shores to industrial use for a PVC pipe extrusion and concrete batching facility. The decision was made despite public opposition citing concerns about noise, emissions, traffic, and water contamination. Council also approved an Investment Policy, a Growth Studies Development Charge, a Multi-Year Accessibility Plan, and a Planning Services Memorandum of Understanding.

• Approved Official Plan Amendment C-2023-004 (Carson) for industrial use on 13 hectares of prime farmland (carried)
• Approved Investment Policy and directed by-law adoption (carried)
• Approved Growth Studies Development Charge effective January 1, 2025 (carried)
• Approved Multi-Year Accessibility Plan and directed by-law adoption (carried)
• Endorsed Planning Services Memorandum of Understanding for circulation to municipalities (carried)
• Approved By-law 2024-066 to adopt Official Plan Amendment C-2023-004 (carried)
• Approved By-law 2024-067 to confirm proceedings (carried)
• Supported WOWC 'Solve the Crisis Campaign' resolution (carried)

Bruce County Public Library Board

The Bruce County Public Library Board will approve September 25 meeting minutes, review the Interlibrary Loan and Circulation policies, consider the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program report, and examine the Library Fees and Charges for 2024. The Director's Report will provide updates on the 2024 Strategic Action Plan, the 2025 meeting schedule, and the Library Services Business Plan.

• Approve September 25, 2024 board minutes
• Review Interlibrary Loan and Circulation policies
• Discuss Community Volunteer Income Tax Program report
• Examine Library Fees and Charges for 2024
• Director's Report on strategic plan, meeting schedule, and business plan

The Bruce County Public Library Board approved minutes from its September 25, 2024 meeting, approved the Operational-Interlibrary Loan and Operational-Circulation policies as presented, and approved hiring a temporary part-time administrative assistant to support the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP), funded by the CVITP grant. The board also increased exam proctoring fees to $40.00 and processing fees to $5.00 for all item types, and directed staff to review fees and charges at least once per term. Reports on the Director's Report, Summer Reading, and Usage were received for information, and the board directed staff to review policies for posting external materials on digital platforms.

• Approved minutes of the September 25, 2024 meeting (Carried)
• Approved Operational-Interlibrary Loan policy as presented (Carried)
• Approved Operational-Circulation policy as presented (Carried)
• Approved hiring a temporary part-time administrative assistant for CVITP, funded by CVITP grant (Carried)
• Increased exam proctoring fees to $40.00 and processing fees to $5.00 for all item types (Carried)
• Directed staff to review fees and charges at least once per term (Direction to Staff)
• Directed staff to review policies for posting external materials on digital platforms (Direction to Staff)

Bruce County Council

Bruce County Council will adopt the minutes from the October 10 and 17 meetings and direct staff to present the 2025 Budget By-law on January 9, 2025, setting the 2025 tax levy increase at 6.53%. The council will also approve five by-laws that authorize a loan for the 2026 International Plowing Match, a 911 dispatch agreement with the Owen Sound Police Services Board, and three Canada‑Ontario Community Housing Initiative funding agreements for Russell Meadows, Formosa Senior's, and the Bruce County Housing Corporation.

• Adopt minutes for the October 10 and October 17 Council meetings
• Direct staff to bring forward the 2025 Budget By-law and set the tax levy increase to 6.53%
• By‑law 2024‑060: authorize a loan agreement for the 2026 International Plowing Match
• By‑law 2024‑061: authorize a Primary Public Safety Answering Point (911 dispatch) agreement with Owen Sound Police Services Board
• By‑laws 2024‑062, 2024‑063, 2024‑064: authorize COCHI project funding agreements for Russell Meadows, Formosa Senior's, and Bruce County Housing Corporation

Council approved a series of budget adjustments, including removing $75,000 from Health Care Funding, deferring $165,750 in Internal Debt Repayments, reducing the Museum Expansion reserve contribution from $285,000 to $100,000, and deferring two staff positions. The 2025 tax levy increase was set to 5.00%, down from the originally proposed 6.81%. The budget by-law will be brought to the January 9, 2025 meeting.

• Removed $75,000 from Health Care Funding (Carried)
• Deferred $165,750 Internal Debt Repayments for Administrative Facility Needs (Carried)
• Reduced Museum Expansion reserve contribution from $285,000 to $100,000 (Carried)
• Deferred Lead Infrastructure, Networks and Design Analyst position ($145,642) to future year (Carried)
• Deferred Records Management & Digital Archivist Coordinator position ($106,178) to future year (Carried)
• Removed Support Asset Lifecycle Management item ($77,000) to future year (Carried)
• Set 2025 tax levy increase to 5.00% and directed budget by-law to January 9, 2025 meeting (Carried)
• Approved by-laws 2024-060 through 2024-064, including loan agreement and funding agreements (Carried)

Bruce County Council

Bruce County Council will review and vote on several by-laws authorizing funding agreements for the Ontario Priority Housing Initiative and the Canada‑Ontario Community Housing Initiative. The council will also adopt the minutes from the October 3 meeting, approve a performance‑plan report for the 2025 Canadian Triage Acuity Scale, and approve the de‑accession of archival items from the county museum. Additional motions include support for CANDU reactors and a contract for 9‑1‑1 service with Owen Sound Police.

• Adopt minutes of the October 3, 2024 council meeting
• Approve the 2025 Canadian Triage Acuity Scale Response Time Performance Plan report
• Approve de‑accession of archival items listed in the Museum‑Archives Deaccession Report
• Introduce by‑laws to authorize funding agreements with Russell Meadows, Formosa Senior’s, and Bruce County Housing Corporation for housing repairs
• Introduce a by‑law to authorize an agreement with Owen Sound Police Service for Primary Public Safety Answering Point (PPSAP) 9‑1‑1 service

Council passed a resolution supporting the continued operation, refurbishment, and expansion of CANDU nuclear reactors in Bruce County and across Ontario, amended to reference the Deep Geological Repository (DGR) project. The resolution will be circulated to local municipalities, provincial and federal officials. Council also approved several operational items, including the 2025 paramedic response time plan, museum deaccessions, housing funding agreements, and a 9-1-1 service contract with Owen Sound Police.

• Approved resolution supporting CANDU reactor operation and expansion, amended to include DGR reference (carried)
• Approved 2025 CTAS Response Time Performance Plan for submission to Ministry of Health (carried)
• Approved deaccession of archival items from Museum & Cultural Centre collection (carried)
• Authorized housing funding agreements with Russell Meadows, Formosa Seniors, and Bruce County Housing Corporation (carried)
• Directed Clerk to circulate South Bruce Peninsula response report to local councils (carried)
• Authorized agreement with Owen Sound Police for 9-1-1 Primary Public Safety Answering Point service (carried)
• Authorized MOU with Smart Communities Association for RideShare program (carried)
• Directed staff to circulate WOWC Blue Box communication to lower-tier municipalities (carried)

Bruce County Housing Corporation

The Bruce County Housing Corporation will adopt the County of Bruce’s Purchasing Policy (By‑law 2024‑045). It will also approve a Sale and Disposition of Land Policy and authorize execution of the Canada Ontario Community Housing Initiative Project Funding Agreement for 2024‑2025. Additional items include an update on community‑housing video surveillance, a heat‑pump installation under the Energy Affordability Program at 539 Ivings Dr in Port Elgin, and a mortgage renewal for 550 Willoughby Street in Lucknow.

• Adopt County of Bruce Purchasing Policy (By‑law 2024‑045) for the corporation
• Approve Sale and Disposition of Land Policy
• Authorize execution of Canada Ontario Community Housing Initiative Project Funding Agreement 2024‑2025
• Heat‑pump installation under Energy Affordability Program at 539 Ivings Dr, Port Elgin
• Mortgage renewal for 550 Willoughby Street, Lucknow

The Bruce County Housing Corporation approved three policies and agreements: adopting the County of Bruce's Purchasing Policy, approving a Sale and Disposition of Land Policy, and authorizing execution of the Canada Ontario Community Housing Initiative Project Funding Agreement for 2024-2025. All resolutions were carried unanimously. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted County of Bruce Purchasing Policy (BCHC-2024-013)
• Approved Sale and Disposition of Land Policy (BCHC-2024-014)
• Authorized Canada Ontario Community Housing Initiative Project Funding Agreement 2024-2025 (BCHC-2024-015)

Long-Term Care Homes Committee of Management

The Long-Term Care Homes Committee will consider several information items, including the Q3 2024 quality reports for Gateway Haven and Brucelea Haven, and a July‑September 2024 update report. No action items or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Long Term Care – Quality Report – Q3 2024 (Gateway Haven)
• Long Term Care – Quality Report – Q3 2024 (Brucelea Haven)
• Long-Term Care Update Report – July, August, September 2024
• BLH Newsletter – August 2024
• GWH Newsletter – September 2024

The Long-Term Care Homes Committee of Management met on October 17, 2024, and received two reports for information: the Long Term Care Quality Report for Q3 2024 and the Long-Term Care Update Report for July-September 2024. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting adjourned at 11:19 a.m.

• Received Long Term Care Quality Report – Q3 2024 (information)
• Received Long-Term Care Update Report – July, August, September 2024 (information)
• Adjourned meeting at 11:19 a.m. (carried)

Bruce County Council

The Bruce County Council is meeting to discuss several administrative items. The primary focus of the meeting is a report for information regarding the 2025-2029 Operating and Capital Budget.

• 2025-2029 Operating and Capital Budget Report

Council received the draft 2025 operating and capital budget for information, with a proposed total levy increase of 6.81% (about $5.6 million, or $82 per household). No decisions were made; the budget will be considered for approval at the November 7 meeting. Council requested additional information on several items, including homelessness funding, affordable housing partnerships, long-term care needs, and the Tobermory paramedic station.

• Received 2025-2029 operating and capital budget for information
• Deferred budget approval to November 7 meeting
• Requested info on funding homelessness programs via tax stabilization reserve
• Requested info on private developer partnerships for affordable housing
• Requested info on private long-term care homes and future bed needs
• Requested info on Tobermory paramedic station relocation and generator deferral

Bruce County Council

Bruce County Council will consider several financial motions, including approving $3,500 for Highway for Peace signage on County Road 19 and authorizing the $738,000 purchase of the former Kincardine Paramedic Station at 369 Lambton Street. The council will also vote on a loan of up to $100,000 for the 2026 International Plowing Match and adopt two by‑laws related to the purchase and to confirm the council’s proceedings. Minutes from the September 19, 2024 meeting will be adopted.

• Approve $3,500 (plus HST) for Highway for Peace signage on County Road 19
• Authorize purchase of 369 Lambton Street, Kincardine for $738,000 (50% reserve, 50% internal financing)
• Authorize loan of up to $100,000 to the 2026 International Plowing Match & Rural Expo Committee
• Adopt By‑law 2024‑057 to authorize the purchase agreement for 369 Lambton Street
• Adopt By‑law 2024‑058 to confirm the council’s proceedings at this meeting

Bruce County Council approved the purchase of a paramedic station at 369 Lambton Street, Kincardine for $738,000 plus taxes, funded 50% from reserves and 50% internal financing. They also approved $3,500 for Highway for Peace signage on County Road 19, and authorized a loan of up to $100,000 to the 2026 International Plowing Match committee. All decisions were carried unanimously.

• Approved purchase of 369 Lambton Street, Kincardine for $738,000 plus taxes (C-2024-156, carried)
• Approved by-law 2024-057 authorizing the purchase agreement (C-2024-158, carried)
• Approved $3,500 plus HST for Highway for Peace signage on County Road 19, funded from Tax Stabilization Reserve (C-2024-155, carried)
• Authorized loan of up to $100,000 to 2026 International Plowing Match & Rural Expo Committee (C-2024-157, carried)
• Approved minutes of September 19, 2024 meeting (C-2024-154, carried)
• Approved by-law 2024-058 confirming proceedings (C-2024-159, carried)

Bruce County Public Library Board

The Board is meeting to discuss and act upon the 2025 budget and business plans. The session includes reviews of operating and capital reports, as well as usage and branch reports.

• 2025 Budget and Business Plans
• 2025 Capital Project Listing
• 2025 Reserves Summary
• September 2024 Director's Report
• Wiarton Branch 2024 Report

The Bruce County Public Library Board approved the 2025 Library Services Business Plan and a partial 2025 budget. The budget approval excludes salaries, benefits, and interdepartmental facilities and support costs. The board also approved the minutes from the June 19, 2024, meeting.

• Approved June 19, 2024, meeting minutes
• Approved 2025 Library Services Business Plan
• Approved 2025 Library Services budget (excluding specific personnel and facility costs)

Accessibility Advisory Committee

The Accessibility Advisory Committee will review several information items, including a presentation on the Bruce County Trail Program’s accessibility, a preliminary list of potential 2025 capital improvements, updates on SMART initiatives, and an invitation to an AODA community learning event. The agenda also details the Spruce the Bruce Business Accessibility Adaptability Grant, which covers up to 50% of a project’s cost, capped at $3,000. Committee members will consider action items such as map‑tour days to assess town and trail accessibility, involvement in the 2026 International Plowing Match, a stop‑gap campaign for local communities, and the Multi‑Year Accessibility Plan 2024‑2028.

• Business Accessibility Adaptability Grant – up to 50% of project cost, max $3,000
• Presentation on Bruce County Trail Program with respect to accessibility
• Preliminary list of potential 2025 capital improvements (Clerk & Facilities)
• Map Tour Days proposal to rate accessibility of towns and trails
• Consideration of committee role in International Plowing Match 2026

Bruce County Council

The Bruce County Council will consider a motion directing staff to develop a scope, financial analysis and a detailed budget for a 12,000‑sq‑ft. museum expansion, including a $285,000 annual reserve transfer. The council will also adopt By‑law 2024‑055 governing council and committee proceedings and By‑law 2024‑056 confirming the proceedings of this meeting. Reports on the 2025 pre‑budget, early learning and child‑care services, and the housing and homelessness plan will be presented for information. A closed‑session will be held to discuss personal matters and employee benefit training.

• Motion to scope museum expansion, conduct financial analysis, and set a $285,000 annual reserve transfer (2025‑2031)
• Adoption of By‑law 2024‑055 to govern council and committee proceedings
• Adoption of By‑law 2024‑056 confirming the council’s proceedings on September 19, 2024
• Presentation of 2025 Pre‑Budget Report for information
• Presentation of New Child Care Funding Approach Report for information

Council deferred a decision on the museum expansion project and instead directed staff to explore partnership options for locations in inland and southern areas, including the current site. Council also approved a procedural by-law governing council and committee proceedings, and received several reports for information. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Deferred museum expansion report (C-2024-148)
• Directed staff to explore partnership options for museum locations (C-2024-149)
• Approved By-law 2024-055 governing council proceedings (C-2024-150)
• Approved minutes of September 5, 2024 (C-2024-147)
• Approved By-law 2024-056 confirming proceedings (C-2024-152)

Bruce County Council

The council will vote to approve three by‑laws—appointing a municipal law enforcement officer, adopting an emergency response plan, and establishing a debt‑management policy. It will also consider amending the procedural by‑law to extend the Warden and Deputy Warden terms to two years and modify election procedures. Additionally, the council will endorse comments on the Bruce C Initial Project and direct staff to begin public engagement on the new Bruce County Official Plan.

• By‑law 2024‑051 to appoint a municipal law enforcement officer
• By‑law 2024‑052 to adopt the County Emergency Response Plan
• By‑law 2024‑053 to adopt a Debt Management Policy for the County
• Amend procedural by‑law to change Warden and Deputy Warden terms from one to two years
• Endorse comments on the Bruce C Initial Project and direct submission to the Impact Assessment Agency

Bruce County Council directed staff to begin public engagement on a new Official Plan, including three regional open houses, and to bring back a final draft for adoption. A proposal to extend the Warden and Deputy Warden terms from one to two years was defeated. Council also approved procedural by-law changes, endorsed comments on the Bruce C nuclear project, and adopted several administrative by-laws.

• Directed staff to begin public engagement on New Bruce County Official Plan (carried)
• Defeated amendment to change Warden/Deputy Warden term to two years (defeated)
• Approved procedural by-law revisions for election officials, nomination period, board appointments (carried)
• Endorsed comments on Bruce C Initial Project Description for submission to Impact Assessment Agency (carried)
• Approved 2025 meeting schedule changes, including cancelling August 21 meeting (carried)
• Approved by-laws 2024-051 (law enforcement officer), 2024-052 (emergency response plan), 2024-053 (debt management policy) (carried)
• Approved by-law 2024-054 to confirm proceedings (carried)

Bruce County Council

Bruce County Council will consider several motions, including approval of an Official Plan amendment for the Voisin property, adoption of a by‑law to widen Bruce Road 20 by 2.56 metres, and a by‑law to authorize a municipal funding agreement under the Canada Community‑Building Fund. The council will also review and may adopt the Bruce County Emergency Response Plan, the Debt Management Policy, and the 2024 Bruce County Asset Management Plan. Additional items include an officer appointment by‑law and related procedural motions.

• Official Plan Amendment C‑2024‑003 (Voisin) for Range Lake Pt Lot 32, Saugeen Shores
• By‑law to widen Bruce Road 20 by 2.56 m (Part 2 on survey Plan 3R10721)
• By‑law authorizing a Municipal Funding Agreement on the Canada Community‑Building Fund
• Adoption of the Bruce County Emergency Response Plan
• Approval of the 2024 Bruce County Asset Management Plan

Bruce County Council approved Official Plan Amendment C-2024-003 for a lot in Saugeen Township, allowing a new house on a severed lot. Council also approved several administrative items, including a road widening, an emergency response plan, a debt management policy, and the 2024 Asset Management Plan. All decisions were carried unanimously.

• Approved Official Plan Amendment C-2024-003 (Voisin) for Range Lake Pt Lot 32, Saugeen Township (carried)
• Approved by-law to establish 2.56m widening as part of Bruce Road 20 (carried)
• Approved by-law to appoint officers to enforce county by-laws, repealing By-laws 2019-053 and 2022-070 (carried)
• Approved Bruce County Emergency Response Plan, repealing By-law 4129 (carried)
• Approved Debt Management Policy (carried)
• Approved 2024 Asset Management Plan, with financial implications to be brought forward in 2025 budget (carried)
• Approved By-laws 2024-047, 2024-048, 2024-049 (Canada Community-Building Fund agreement, road widening, Official Plan Amendment) (carried)
• Approved By-law 2024-050 to confirm proceedings (carried)

Striking Committee

The Striking Committee will adopt the July 4, 2024 meeting minutes and review the 2024 Procedural By‑law. It will recommend specific amendments, including appointing the Clerk as Returning Officer, adding a nomination period for Warden elections, and removing references to the Warden for health‑board appointments. The Committee will also move to a closed session under Municipal Act Section 239(2)(b).

• Adopt July 4, 2024 Striking Committee minutes (SC_Jul04_2024).
• Recommend amending Section 22.15 to make the Clerk the Returning Officer and the CAO and Deputy CAO scrutineers.
• Recommend adding a nomination period for election of Warden and Deputy Warden.
• Recommend amending Sections 21.1 and 21.2 to remove Warden reference for board appointments.
• Proceed to a closed session per Municipal Act Section 239(2)(b).

The Striking Committee approved amendments to the Procedural By-law, including appointing the Clerk as Returning Officer and allowing any council member to serve on the Grey Bruce Board of Health and Bruce County Library Board. It also directed staff to refer a proposed two-year Warden term to Council and to seek clarification from the Ministry of Health about public appointments to the Board of Health. The committee approved the 2024 CAO Performance Goals and Development Objectives for presentation to Council.

• Approved amendments to Procedural By-law (SC-2024-017)
• Directed staff to refer two-year Warden term proposal to Council
• Directed staff to seek Ministry of Health clarification on Board of Health appointments
• Approved 2024 CAO Performance Goals and Development Objectives (SC-2024-019)
• Approved minutes of July 4, 2024 meeting (SC-2024-016)
• Moved to closed session for personal matters (SC-2024-018)

Bruce County Council

Bruce County Council is meeting to decide on infrastructure repairs, funding agreements, and official plan amendments. The body will review a preferred alternative for the Durham Street Bridge and vote on updates to fees and purchasing policies.

• Endorsement of Alternative 2 (Bridge Repair/Rehabilitation) for the Durham Street Bridge in Walkerton
• Approval of $16,000 from Brucelea Haven Departmental Donation Reserve for resident TV and staff room improvements
• By-law 2024-043 to adopt Official Plan Amendment C-2024-002 (Dales)
• By-law 2024-044 to amend the Fees and Charges By-law
• By-law 2024-045 to establish a Purchasing Policy By-law

Council endorsed Alternative 2 (Bridge Repair/Rehabilitation) as the preferred option for the Durham Street Bridge in Walkerton, based on the Draft Environmental Study Report. They also approved several other items, including a municipal funding agreement with AMO, deaccession of museum collection items, use of $16,000 from a donation reserve for long-term care improvements, and three by-laws. All decisions were carried unanimously.

• Endorsed Alternative 2 (Bridge Repair/Rehabilitation) for Durham Street Bridge (carried)
• Authorized Warden and Clerk to execute Municipal Funding Agreement with AMO (carried)
• Approved deaccession of items from Bruce County Museum collection (carried)
• Approved $16,000 from Brucelea Haven Donation Reserve for TV and staff room improvements (carried)
• Adopted By-law 2024-043 (Official Plan Amendment C-2024-001 Dales) (carried)
• Adopted By-law 2024-044 (Fees and Charges amendment) (carried)
• Adopted By-law 2024-045 (Purchasing Policy) (carried)
• Adopted By-law 2024-046 (Confirmatory by-law) (carried)

Striking Committee

The Striking Committee will meet to adopt minutes from the May 2, 2024 meeting and determine participants for the 2024 CAO performance evaluation. The committee also intends to enter a closed session regarding personal matters about an identifiable individual.

• Adoption of May 2, 2024, meeting minutes
• Confirmation of Warden Peabody and Deputy Warden Charbonneau for the 2024 CAO performance evaluation meetings
• Closed session regarding personal matters about an identifiable individual

The committee approved the minutes from the May 2, 2024 meeting. Members designated which officials will conduct the preliminary and final 2024 CAO performance evaluation meetings. The committee also held a closed session to review the CAO performance evaluation.

• Approved May 2, 2024 meeting minutes
• Confirmed Warden Peabody to conduct preliminary 2024 CAO performance evaluation meeting
• Confirmed Warden Peabody and Deputy Warden Charbonneau to conduct 2024 final CAO performance evaluation meeting
• Approved move to Closed Session regarding personal matters about an identifiable individual

Long-Term Care Homes Committee of Management

The Committee of Management will review the second quarter 2024 quality report for long-term care homes. The committee will also receive an operations report covering April, May, and June 2024. The agenda includes a recommendation to approve minutes from the April 4, 2024 meeting.

• Review of Q2 2024 Long Term Care Quality Report
• Review of Q2 2024 Long Term Care Operations Report
• Approval of April 4, 2024 meeting minutes

The Long-Term Care Homes Committee of Management met on July 4, 2024, and approved the minutes of its April 4, 2024 meeting as circulated. The committee received two reports for information: the Long Term Care Quality Report for Q2 2024 and the Long Term Care Operations Report for Q2 2024. No other substantive decisions were recorded; the meeting adjourned at 11:25 a.m.

• Approved minutes of the April 4, 2024 meeting as circulated (carried)
• Received Long Term Care Quality Report – Q2 2024 for information
• Received Long Term Care Operations Report – Q2 2024 for information
• Adjourned at 11:25 a.m. (carried)

Special Meeting - Bruce County Council

Bruce County Council is meeting to consider endorsing the Indigenous Reconciliation Framework and the Saugeen Anishnaabek Reconciliation Pathway and Action Plan. The council will also vote on By-law 2024-042 to confirm the proceedings of this special meeting.

• Endorsement of Reconciliation Framework and Saugeen Anishnaabek Reconciliation Pathway and Action Plan
• Approval of By-law 2024-042 (Confirmatory By-law)

Council endorsed the Indigenous Reconciliation Framework and the Saugeen Anishnaabek Reconciliation Pathway and Action Plan. The meeting was attended by councillors from Saugeen First Nation and Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation.

• Endorsed Indigenous Reconciliation Framework and Saugeen Anishnaabek Reconciliation Pathway and Action Plan (Carried)
• Approved By-law 2024-042 to confirm proceedings of the July 4, 2024 meeting (Carried)

Bruce County Council

The council is reviewing the 2024-26 Housing Action Plan and several municipal by-laws. Agenda items include funding for economic development, road maintenance equipment, and long-term care improvements.

• Approval of Official Plan Amendment C-2024-002 for lands in South Bruce Peninsula
• $29,000 contribution from the Economic Development Departmental Reserve to a Rural Economic Development program
• Up to $70,000 from the Gordon Henry Amrell Trust for murals in long-term care homes
• Purchase of a used spray patcher truck up to $75,000 plus HST
• Increase of 910 annual Social Worker hours for Bruce Lea Haven and Gateway Haven

Council approved two Official Plan amendments and endorsed the 2024-2026 Housing Action Plan. The meeting also included authorizations for economic development funding, long-term care murals, and the purchase of a used spray patcher truck.

• Approved Official Plan Amendment C-2024-001 (Dales)
• Approved Official Plan Amendment C-2024-002 (Naves)
• Authorized $29,000 from Economic Development Reserve for RED Fund agreement
• Endorsed Bruce County Housing Action Plan 2024-2026
• Approved up to $70,000 from Gordon Henry Amrell Trust for long-term care murals
• Approved increase of annual Social Worker hours to 910 for Bruce Lea Haven and Gateway Haven
• Authorized up to $75,000 plus HST from Fleet Capital Reserve for used spray patcher truck
• Approved By-laws 2024-035 through 2024-040, including new reserve funds and ORV/snowmobile regulations

Bruce County Housing Corporation

The Bruce County Housing Corporation is considering a motion to begin exploring land acquisition opportunities for a multi-residential community housing build. This exploration would focus on the inland region of Bruce County. The agenda also includes the approval of minutes from the June 6, 2024 meeting.

• Motion to explore land acquisition for multi-residential community housing in inland Bruce County
• Approval of June 6, 2024, meeting minutes

The Bruce County Housing Corporation adopted minutes from its previous meeting and approved exploring land acquisition opportunities in the inland region of Bruce County for a multi-residential community housing build. The meeting was adjourned at 11:10 a.m.

• Approved minutes of the June 6, 2024 meeting (Resolution # BCHC-2024-009)
• Approved proceeding with exploration of land acquisition for a multi-residential community housing build in the inland region (Resolution # BCHC-2024-010)
• Adjourned the meeting at 11:10 a.m. (Resolution # BCHC-2024-011)

Bruce County Council

The council is reviewing several reports and considering motions regarding regional transit and healthcare. A motion was introduced calling on the Ontario Ministry of Health to halt planned hospital service reductions in the Bruce, Grey, and Huron region. The agenda also includes discussions on energy conservation and local service investments.

• Motion calling for a pause on hospital service reductions in the Bruce, Grey, and Huron region
• Authorization for a Memorandum of Understanding regarding Grey Transit Route 5 extensions
• Endorsement of Saugeen Shores resolution for cemetery preservation and maintenance funding
• Authorization for staffing increases in Long Term Care to support four hours of care per resident

Bruce County Council passed a resolution asking the Ontario Ministry of Health to immediately pause all planned and future service level reductions and closures at hospitals in the Bruce, Grey and Huron region, until detailed studies are done. Council also authorized agreements with Grey County and South Bruce Peninsula for the Sauble Beach extension and Owen Sound–Wiarton operation of Grey Transit Route #5 through 2024. In closed session it received a planning legal matter update and a labour relations update, then in open session authorized long-term care staffing increases to support 4 hours of care per resident and allied health professional services for 2024-2025. All recorded resolutions carried; no vote tallies were recorded.

• Approved resolution calling on Ontario Ministry of Health to pause planned and future hospital service reductions and closures in Bruce, Grey and Huron (Carried)
• Authorized Clerk and Warden to sign MOU with Grey County and South Bruce Peninsula for Sauble Beach extension of Grey Transit Route #5, May–September 2024 (Carried)
• Authorized Clerk and Warden to sign MOU with Grey County and South Bruce Peninsula for Grey Transit Route #5 between Owen Sound and Wiarton until end of 2024 (Carried)
• Endorsed Saugeen Shores resolution on funding for cemetery preservation, repair and maintenance (Carried)
• Authorized Director of Long-Term Care and Senior Services and Director of Human Resources to implement staffing increases supporting 4 hours of care per resident and allied health professional services for 2024-2025 (Carried)
• Approved minutes of the June 6, 2024 Council meeting (Carried)
• Approved By-law 2024-034, confirmatory by-law for the June 20, 2024 meeting (Carried)
• Received closed session updates on a planning legal matter and labour relations; approved June 6, 2024 closed minutes in closed session

Bruce County Public Library Board

The Bruce County Public Library Board will review the Intellectual Freedom policy and approve minutes from May 22, 2024. The board will also receive reports on 2023 audited financial statements, reserve policies, and library usage.

• Review of Intellectual Freedom policy
• Approval of May 22, 2024 meeting minutes
• Presentation of 2023 Audited Financial Statements
• Discussion of revised reserve policy and annual balances
• Lucknow Branch update

The Bruce County Public Library Board approved the Intellectual Freedom Policy as presented and ratified the minutes from the May 22, 2024 meeting. Several reports, including the 2023 Audited Financial Statements and a Director's Report, were received for information only. No other business was discussed, and the meeting adjourned at 11:03 a.m.

• Approved Intellectual Freedom Policy as presented
• Approved minutes of May 22, 2024 meeting
• Received 2023 Audited Financial Statements for information
• Received Revised Reserve Policy for information
• Received Director's Report for information
• Received Usage Report for information
• Received Lucknow Branch Update for information

Bruce County Housing Corporation

The Bruce County Housing Corporation approved a refinancing of the mortgage for the 550 Willoughby project in Huron Kinloss, maturing in September 2024. The board also held a closed session to discuss land disposition opportunities from a regeneration report, but no specific land deals were announced in the open minutes.

• Approved refinancing of 550 Willoughby mortgage (~$172,121.77)
• Granted authority to officers to execute mortgage renewal documents
• Approved minutes from February 1, 2024 meeting
• Moved into closed session to discuss land disposition opportunities
• Received 2024 Q1 Arrears Report for information

Bruce County Council

The Bruce County Council is reviewing reports on housing services and community grants. The agenda includes decisions on funding for the 1878 Schoolhouse restoration and a municipal agreement for the Sauble Beach Paramedic Station. Council will also discuss engagement regarding nuclear energy sector projects.

• $320,000 + HST tender award to Colonial Building Restorations
• Approval of Hampton Woods draft plan of subdivision unlapsing
• Agreement for Sauble Beach Paramedic Station at 672 Main Street
• Endorsement of the Global Partnership for Nuclear Communities declaration
• Transfer payment agreement for Spring Creek Restoration Project

Council approved $320,000 for the restoration of the 1878 Schoolhouse and Log Cabin and endorsed principles for nuclear energy sector engagement. Other actions included updating a subdivision plan and approving a paramedic station agreement with South Bruce Peninsula.

• Endorsed Global Partnership for Nuclear Communities principles for nuclear energy projects
• Approved $320,000 + HST contract to Colonial Building Restorations for 1878 Schoolhouse and Log Cabin project
• Deemed Draft Plan of Subdivision 41T-2019-02.48 (Hampton Woods) not to have lapsed
• Authorized Transfer Payment Agreement with Ontario Ministry of the Environment for Spring Creek Restoration Project
• Nominated Chris Peabody for Director for the County Caucus on the AMO Board of Directors
• Approved By-law 2024-030 establishing a reserve and reserve fund policy
• Approved By-law 2024-031 repealing reserve and reserve fund by-laws
• Approved By-law 2024-032 for Sauble Beach Paramedic Station agreement with Town of South Bruce Peninsula

Bruce County Public Library Board

The Bruce County Public Library Board is meeting to handle routine business including approving minutes, reviewing the Operational Collection Development policy, and receiving the Director's and Usage reports. The board will also discuss the CUPE Local 4481 library ratification in closed session. This is a standard administrative meeting with no major public decisions listed.

• Closed meeting item: CUPE Local 4481 Library Ratification
• Policy review: Operational - Collection Development
• Approval of minutes from April 17, 2024 meeting
• Director's Report - May 2024
• Usage Report - May 2024

The Bruce County Public Library Board approved the Operational - Collection Development policy. The Board also established a limit on how often individuals can request the removal of books from the collection.

• Approved Operational - Collection Development policy
• Limited book removal requests to one per person per year
• Approved April 17, 2024 meeting minutes

Bruce County Council

Bruce County Council meets remotely to consider several administrative items, including approving a new CAO Performance Evaluation Policy, revising the Reserve and Reserve Funds Policy with associated transfers and closures, and appointing a Treasurer via by-law. Council will also receive information reports on first-quarter finances, reserves, employment services, and child care, plus hear a delegation about the 160th Bruce Battalion "Highway for Peace."

• Approve CAO Performance Evaluation Policy and 2024 review timeline
• Approve revised Reserve and Reserve Funds Policy with transfers, closures, and naming changes
• By-law 2024-028 to appoint a Treasurer for the County of Bruce
• First Quarter Financial Statement Review 2024 (report CS-2024-026)
• Delegation from Bill Streeter on 160th Bruce Battalion "Highway for Peace"

Bruce County Council approved the May 2, 2024 minutes, adopted a new CAO Performance Evaluation Policy, approved revisions to the Reserves and Reserve Funds Policy, and passed a by-law to appoint a Treasurer.

• Approved May 2, 2024 Council minutes (Resolution # C-2024-079)
• Approved CAO Performance Evaluation Policy and 2024 timeline (Resolution # C-2024-080)
• Approved revised Reserves and Reserve Funds Policy and related transfers/naming (Resolution # C-2024-081)
• Approved By-law 2024-028 to appoint a Treasurer (Resolution # C-2024-082)
• Approved By-law 2024-029 confirming proceedings (Resolution # C-2024-083)
• Adjourned the meeting at 10:07 a.m. (Resolution # C-2024-084)

Bruce County Council

Bruce County Council is meeting to decide on several items, including approving the 2023 audited financial statements, funding a 10-year forest inventory, introducing an off-road vehicle bylaw, and submitting comments on provincial planning changes. They will also receive information reports on purchasing, tenders, paramedicine, and other topics.

• Approve 2023 Audited Consolidated Financial Statements as presented by BDO & Company LLP
• Transfer $120,000 from Tax Stabilization Reserve for 10-year Bruce County Forest Inventory with FSmith Consulting Inc.
• Introduce by-law to regulate off-road vehicles on county roads
• Submit comments to province on planning legislation and proposed Provincial Policy Statement changes
• Approve revisions to Museum Volunteer Program Policy

Council approved funding for a forest inventory and authorized a contract with FSmith Consulting Inc. Other actions included approving the 2023 audited financial statements and introducing a by-law to regulate off-road vehicles on county roads.

• Approved 2023 Audited Consolidated Financial Statements
• Approved revisions to the Museum Volunteer Program Policy
• Approved $120,000 transfer from Tax Stabilization Reserve for 10-year Bruce County Forest Inventory
• Authorized agreement with FSmith Consulting Inc. for forest inventory
• Approved introduction of a by-law to regulate off-road vehicles on County roads
• Approved submission of comments on planning legislation to the Environmental Registry of Ontario
• Approved minutes of the April 18, 2024 meeting

Striking Committee

The Bruce County Striking Committee is meeting to handle routine procedural items, including approving prior minutes and reviewing appointments and policies. The main substantive item is a recommendation to endorse the CAO Performance Evaluation Policy and recommend the 2024 performance review timeline to Council.

• Approve minutes of March 21, 2024 Striking Committee meeting
• Endorse CAO Performance Evaluation Policy and recommend to Council
• Recommend 2024 CAO Performance Review timeline to Council

The Striking Committee endorsed the CAO Performance Evaluation Policy and the 2024 Performance Review timeline for Council's consideration. The committee also approved the minutes from the March 21, 2024 meeting.

• Approved March 21, 2024 meeting minutes
• Endorsed CAO Performance Evaluation Policy and recommended it to Council
• Recommended 2024 Performance Review timeline to Council

Bruce County Council

Bruce County Council is meeting to review reports and consider several motions, including endorsing additional government relations priorities, supporting AMO's call for a Social and Economic Prosperity Review, joining the Southwestern Ontario Isotope Coalition, and approving items related to the Bruce County Housing Corporation. The agenda also includes a public review of the Active Transportation and Recreational Trails Master Plan and a museum expansion report.

• Museum & Cultural Services: Museum Expansion Report 2024 and Needs Study
• Transportation: Bruce County Active Transportation and Recreational Trails Master Plan - Public Review
• Government Relations: Endorse additional priorities and AMO's Social and Economic Prosperity Review
• Community Development: Join Southwestern Ontario Isotope Coalition as Regional Collaborative Partner
• Housing: Approve 2023 unaudited financial statements and appoint BDO Canada LLP as accountants for Bruce County Housing Corporation

Bruce County Council approved several administrative resolutions, including joining the Southwestern Ontario Isotope Coalition and endorsing provincial government relations priorities. The Council also ratified the unaudited financial statements and appointed directors for the Bruce County Housing Corporation. Additionally, a by-law was passed to assume a 2.134 metre road widening adjacent to Bruce Road 6 East.

• Approved minutes of April 4, 2024 meeting
• Endorsed additional Government Relations policy priorities
• Endorsed AMO call for Social and Economic Prosperity Review
• Joined Southwestern Ontario Isotope Coalition as Regional Collaborative Partner
• Appointed Warden and Manager of Economic Development to SOIC Steering Committee
• Approved unaudited financial statements for Bruce County Housing Corporation
• Appointed BDO Canada LLP and Duncan, Linton LLP to Housing Corporation
• Approved By-law 2024-025 for 2.134 metre widening on Bruce Road 6 East

BCHC Annual General Meeting

The Bruce County Housing Corporation is holding its Annual General Meeting to approve minutes, appoint directors and officers, and ratify the appointment of an auditor and solicitor. The agenda is largely procedural, with no substantive policy decisions or financial approvals beyond routine items.

• Appoint 8 directors: Luke Charbonneau, Kenneth Craig, Mark Goetz, Steve Hammell, Jay Kirkland, Milt McIver, Donald Murray, Chris Peabody
• Appoint officers: Chair Chris Peabody, Vice-Chair Luke Charbonneau, CEO Tina Metcalfe, Treasurer Lynn Hatten, Secretary Linda White, Officers Devon Gordon and Tania Dickson
• Appoint BDO Canada LLP as accountants
• Appoint Duncan, Linton LLP as corporate solicitor
• Approve 2023 unaudited financial statements

Bruce County Public Library Board

The Bruce County Public Library Board is meeting to approve minutes, review reports, and discuss a proposal to make library services fine-free. The agenda includes a fine-free report and cost analysis, along with director, usage, and branch updates.

• Fine-Free Library Service discussion with Fine Free Report and Ontario Library Association Costs of Fines Diagram
• Approval of March 20, 2024 meeting minutes
• Director's Report for April 2024
• Usage Report for April 2024
• Mildmay Branch Update

The Bruce County Public Library Board voted to eliminate overdue fines for residents effective June 1, 2024, and to waive any existing overdue fines. The board also approved the minutes of its March 20, 2024 meeting. Reports on the director, usage, and the Mildmay Branch were received for information only, with no decisions recorded on them. Catherine Dickison volunteered to attend the May 7, 2024 OLS Board Session in place of Mike Moszynski.

• Approved eliminating overdue fines at BCPL for residents effective June 1, 2024 (carried)
• Approved waiving all existing overdue fines (carried)
• Approved minutes of the March 20, 2024 meeting (carried)
• Received Director's Report, Usage Report, and Mildmay Branch Update for information only
• Catherine Dickison volunteered to attend the May 7, 2024 OLS Board Session for Mike Moszynski
• Adjourned at 11:15 a.m. (carried)

Housing Forum

This agenda for the Bruce County Housing Forum on 2024-04-11 contains only procedural boilerplate from the eSCRIBE system, with no listed agenda items, decisions, or discussion topics. The document provides no substantive content for residents.

Bruce County Council

Bruce County Council is meeting to decide on funding for immediate repairs to the Durham Street Bridge, reallocating $1.85 million from the Bruce Road 19 project and up to $1,167,000 from the County Bridge Reserve. Council will also consider dedicating a road widening on Bruce Road 6, approving a paramedic station agreement with South Bruce Peninsula, and allocating 2023 surplus funds. Several by-laws are up for approval, including appointments and service agreements.

• Transfer $1,850,000 from Bruce Road 19 project to Durham Street Bridge repairs
• Dedicate 2.134-metre widening to County Highway System on Bruce Road 6 East
• Authorize Municipal Capital Facility Agreement for Sauble Beach Paramedic Station
• Allocate 2023 surplus: $100,000 Winter Control, $750,000 Affordable Housing, $375,000 General Facilities
• Approve by-laws for weed inspectors, Ontario Federation of Trail Riders agreement, and Long-Term Care Home Service Accountability

Bruce County Council approved reallocating $1,850,000.00 in capital funds from the deferred Bruce Road 19 project to the Durham Street Bridge immediate repairs, plus a transfer of up to $1,167,000.00 from the County Bridge Reserve. Council also approved a 2.134 metre road widening on Bruce Road 6 East, archival deaccessions, a paramedic station agreement with the Town of South Bruce Peninsula, and allocations of 2023 surplus funds to several reserves. Three by-laws were approved, including appointments of Weed Inspectors and agreements with the Ontario Federation of Trail Riders and for Long-Term Care Home Service Accountability. All resolutions carried; no vote tallies were recorded.

• Approved reallocating $1,850,000.00 from deferred Bruce Road 19 project (TS-2023-027) to Durham Street Bridge project TS-2021-014 (Carried)
• Approved transfer of up to $1,167,000.00 from County Bridge Reserve for Durham Street Bridge immediate repairs (Carried)
• Approved by-law to widen 2.134 metres to public highway system on Bruce Road 6 East (Carried)
• Approved deaccession of items listed in 'Archival Items Recommended for Deaccession April 2024' (Carried)
• Approved by-law authorizing Municipal Capital Facility Agreement with Town of South Bruce Peninsula for Sauble Beach Paramedic Station (Carried)
• Approved allocation of 2023 surplus: $100,000 to Winter Control Reserve, $750,000 to Affordable Housing Program – Creation of New Units reserve, $375,000 to General Facilities Reserve, remainder to Tax Stabilization Reserve (Carried)
• Approved By-law 2024-021 (Weed Inspectors), By-law 2024-022 (Ontario Federation of Trail Riders agreement), By-law 2024-023 (Long-Term Care Home Service Accountability Agreement) (Carried)
• Approved minutes of March 21, 2024 meeting and By-law 2024-024 confirming proceedings (Carried)

Long-Term Care Homes Committee of Management

The Long-Term Care Homes Committee of Management is meeting to approve minutes, authorize the Director of Long-Term Care and Senior Services to sign and submit 2023 Declaration of Compliance forms for Brucelea Haven and Gateway Haven to Ontario Health, and receive updates on long-term care operations and quality reports. The committee will also move into a closed session to discuss legal matters regarding Gateway Haven and approve closed minutes from April 6, 2023.

• Authorization to sign and submit 2023 Declaration of Compliance for Brucelea Haven and Gateway Haven to Ontario Health
• Approval of minutes from October 5, 2023 and January 18, 2024 meetings
• Information items: Long-Term Care Update Report for January-March 2024 and Quality Report for same period
• Discussion of Long-Term Care Home Service Accountability Agreement extension for 2024-25
• Closed meeting for litigation update on Gateway Haven and approval of closed minutes from April 6, 2023

The Long-Term Care Homes Committee of Management approved minutes from its October 5, 2023 and January 18, 2024 meetings, and authorized the Director of Long-Term Care and Senior Services to sign and submit a Declaration of Compliance for Brucelea Haven and Gateway Haven to Ontario Health for January 1 to December 31, 2023. The committee received three information reports on long-term care updates, quality, and a service accountability agreement extension. It also moved into a closed meeting under the Municipal Act to discuss legal matters at Gateway Haven and approved April 6, 2023 closed session minutes; no details of that discussion were released.

• Approved minutes of the October 5, 2023 and January 18, 2024 meetings as circulated (carried)
• Authorized Director of Long-Term Care and Senior Services to sign and submit 2023 Declaration of Compliance for Brucelea Haven and Gateway Haven to Ontario Health (carried)
• Received three information reports: Long Term Care Update (Jan-Mar 2024), Quality Report (Jan-Mar 2024), and LTC Home Service Accountability Agreement Extension
• Moved into closed meeting under Section 239(2)(e) of the Municipal Act to discuss legal matters at Gateway Haven and approve April 6, 2023 closed minutes (carried)
• Approved April 6, 2023 closed session minutes in closed session (reported out)
• Adjourned at 10:50 a.m. (carried)

Accessibility Advisory Committee

The Bruce County Accessibility Advisory Committee is meeting to elect a Chair and Vice Chair, hear verbal updates on accessible transit and the Age-Friendly Strategy, review its Terms of Reference, and discuss the Multi-Year Accessibility Plan. The agenda is largely procedural and informational, with no specific dollar amounts or decisions listed.

• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Verbal update on Accessible Transit from Claire Dodds, Commissioner of Community Development
• Verbal update on Age-Friendly Strategy from Megan Garland, Director of Long-Term Care & Senior Services
• Review of Accessibility Advisory Committee Terms of Reference
• Discussion of Multi-Year Accessibility Plan

Striking Committee

The Bruce County Striking Committee is meeting electronically to handle routine procedural items and one substantive report. The main item is a report on the CAO Performance Evaluation Process, which the committee is recommending be referred back to staff for revisions. The meeting also includes approval of the January 25, 2024 minutes and standard agenda items.

• CAO Performance Evaluation Process report recommended to be referred back to staff for revisions
• Approval of January 25, 2024 Striking Committee minutes
• Meeting held electronically from 10:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

The committee approved the minutes from the January 25, 2024 meeting. Members decided to return the CAO Evaluation Process report to staff for revisions.

• Approved January 25, 2024 meeting minutes (Carried)
• Referred CAO Evaluation Process report back to staff for revisions (Carried)

Bruce County Council

Bruce County Council is meeting to consider several reports and motions, including a funding reallocation for transit, appointment of weed inspectors, approval of an official plan amendment, and multiple by-laws. The agenda also includes routine items like minutes adoption and a closed session for legal and personnel matters.

• Reallocate $26,500 from unspent Business Sustainability Loan to fund 50% of Grey Transit Route 5 from Wiarton to Owen Sound for remainder of 2024
• Approve South Bruce Peninsula Official Plan Amendment L-2022-018 for Barry's Construction and Insulation Ltd. (Part Lots 18 & 19, Concession 2, Amabel)
• Introduce by-law to appoint Environmental Services Supervisor and Technician as Area Weed Inspectors
• Authorize five-year agreement with Ontario Federation of Trail Riders
• Approve By-law 2024-019: lease with Central Peninsula Sno-Drifters Snowmobile Club for Lindsay Tract building at 4025 Highway 6

Council approved an Official Plan Amendment for Barry’s Construction and Insulation Ltd. and reallocated $26,500 to fund Grey Transit Route 5. The board also authorized a five-year agreement with the Ontario Federation of Trail Riders and a lease for the Central Peninsula Sno-Drifters Snowmobile Club.

• Approved reallocation of $26,500 to fund 50% of Grey Transit Route 5 for remainder of 2024 (Carried)
• Approved introducing a by-law to appoint Area Weed Inspectors (Carried)
• Approved Official Plan Amendment L-2022-018 for Barry’s Construction and Insulation Ltd. (Carried)
• Authorized a five-year agreement with the Ontario Federation of Trail Riders (Carried)
• Approved By-law 2024-019 for a lease agreement with Central Peninsula Sno-Drifters Snowmobile Club (Carried)
• Approved minutes of the March 7, 2024 Council meeting (Carried)

Bruce County Public Library Board

The Bruce County Public Library Board is meeting to approve minutes, review the Governance - Duties and Responsibilities policy, and receive the Director's Report, Usage Report, and a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Collection Update. The board will also discuss the 2024 meeting schedule and hold a closed session for minutes approval and the CEO performance evaluation.

• Approval of February 21, 2024 meeting minutes
• Policy review: Governance - Duties and Responsibilities
• Director's Report - March 2024
• Usage Report - March 2024
• Closed session: CEO performance evaluation

The Board approved the minutes from the February 21, 2024 meeting and the Governance - Duties and Responsibilities policy. The Board also held a closed session to discuss the CEO Performance Evaluation.

• Approved February 21, 2024 meeting minutes (Carried)
• Approved Governance - Duties and Responsibilities policy (Carried)

Bruce County Council

Council will vote on several items including a subdivision approval, a $157,000 forest inventory, a 5-year snowmobile club lease, and three by-laws.

• Approve Official Plan Amendment C-2022-016 and draft approval of Subdivision S-2022-030 (Barry's Construction and Insulation Ltd.)
• Approve $157,000 from Tax Stabilization Reserve for a 10-year County Forest Inventory with SVCA
• Authorize a 5-year lease with Central Peninsula Sno-Drifters Snowmobile Club for the Lindsay Tract Shop
• Adopt By-laws 2024-015 (tax ratios/rates), 2024-016 (OPA C-2023-008), and 2024-017 (OPA C-2022-016)
• Direct staff to recruit a Nurse Practitioner for Gateway Haven

Council adopted by-laws for 2024 property tax estimates and rates. The board approved a land subdivision and Official Plan amendment for Barry’s Construction and Insulation Ltd. and authorized the recruitment of a Nurse Practitioner for Gateway Haven.

• Approved 2024 property tax estimates, ratios, and rates (By-law 2024-015)
• Approved Official Plan Amendment C-2022-016 and Subdivision S-2022-030 for Barry’s Construction and Insulation Ltd.
• Denied joining the Southwestern Ontario Isotope Coalition as a Regional Collaborative Partner
• Approved 2024 Financial Management Cycle and 2025 Budget timeline
• Approved recruitment of one full-time Nurse Practitioner for Gateway Haven Long-Term Care Home
• Approved 5-year commercial lease for 'Lindsay Tract Shop' with Central Peninsula Sno-Drifters Snowmobile Club
• Denied $157,000 from Tax Stabilization Reserve for 10-year County Forest Inventory
• Approved discharge of mortgage for 5 Railway Street, South Bruce to Bruce County Housing Corporation

Bruce County Public Library Board

The Bruce County Public Library Board is meeting to handle routine business: approving the December 20, 2023 minutes, reviewing the Operational Children and Teen Services policy, and receiving reports from the director, annual activities, and usage. The agenda also includes a closed session for CUPE Local 4481 negotiations, with reporting from closed afterward.

• Closed meeting: CUPE Local 4481 negotiations
• Policy review: Operational - Children and Teen Services
• Director's Report - February 2024 with 2023 Q4 updates
• Annual Activities Report - 2023
• Usage Report - February 2024

The board approved the Operational - Children and Teen Services policy and the minutes from the December 20, 2023, meeting. The board also held a closed session to discuss CUPE Local 4481 negotiations.

• Approved Operational - Children and Teen Services policy
• Approved December 20, 2023, meeting minutes
• Moved into closed meeting to discuss CUPE Local 4481 Negotiations

Bruce County Council

Bruce County Council will consider adopting the County Official Plan Amendment C-2023-008 Implementation Amendment, which would update the official plan. Council will also decide on 2024 property tax ratios and rates, including continuing tax relief programs for charities, low-income seniors, and persons with disabilities. Other items include supporting the 2026 International Plowing Match with up to $100,000 in start-up funds, approving a bridge weight restriction by-law, and receiving numerous information reports on topics like pandemic funding, child care, housing, and business plan updates.

• Adoption of County Official Plan Amendment C-2023-008 Implementation Amendment
• 2024 Property Tax Policy Review: approve tax ratios, class discounts, and continue tax relief programs
• Support for 2026 International Plowing Match with up to $100,000 in start-up funds
• By-law 2024-013 to restrict vehicle weights on County bridges
• Appointments to Accessibility Advisory Committee and Community Drug & Alcohol Strategy

Council approved the 2024 County-wide tax ratios, class discounts, and continued tax relief programs for charities and low-income residents. The board also adopted an Official Plan Amendment and passed a by-law restricting vehicle weights on County bridges.

• Adopted County Official Plan Amendment C-2023-008
• Approved support and up to $100,000 in start-up funds for the 2026 International Plowing Match
• Approved 2024 tax ratios, class discounts, and continued tax relief for charities and low-income seniors/persons with disabilities
• Approved absorbing 2023 capital spending overages into year-end surplus or deficit
• Appointed Warden and Councillor Goetz to Accessibility Advisory Committee
• Appointed Councillor Craig and Councillor Goetz to Community Drug & Alcohol Strategy
• Approved By-law 2024-013 to restrict vehicle weights on County bridges

Bruce County Housing Corporation

The Bruce County Housing Corporation is considering the reallocation of 2023 surplus capital funds to support unit turnovers and emergency repairs. The board will also address the resignation of Treasurer Edward Henley and the appointment of Lynn Hatten.

• Reallocation of $250,000 for approximately 35-unit turnovers
• Reallocation of $150,000 for emergency projects at 7432 Hwy 6, Tobermory and 401 Cayley, Walkerton
• Appointment of Lynn Hatten as Treasurer effective January 26, 2024
• Discussion of mortgage information for 539 Ivings Drive, Saugeen Shores
• Information regarding National Housing Co-Investment Fund renewal and repair

The Board approved the reallocation of 2023 surplus capital funds for unit turnovers and emergency projects. The Board also accepted a treasurer's resignation and appointed a successor.

• Approved reallocation of $250,000 surplus capital funding for approximately 35-unit turnovers
• Approved reallocation of $150,000 surplus capital funding for emergency projects at 7432 Hwy 6, Tobermory and 401 Cayley, Walkerton
• Accepted resignation of Treasurer Edward Henley effective January 26, 2024
• Appointed Lynn Hatten as Treasurer effective January 26, 2024
• Adopted minutes of the December 7, 2023 meeting

Bruce County Council

Bruce County Council is meeting to decide on several items, including endorsing a drinking water source protection plan update, approving a new weight-restricted bridge by-law and an alternate truck route for the Durham Street Bridge, and pre-approving a $430,000 snowplow purchase. Council will also hear delegations about the 2026 International Plowing Match and a Clean Energy Frontier update, and consider appointments to committees.

• Endorse Maitland Valley Drinking Water Source Protection Plan amendment
• Introduce by-law to restrict vehicle weights on County bridges and implement Alternate Truck Route for Durham Street Bridge
• Pre-budget approval to purchase one tandem axle snowplow for $430,000
• Approve Terms of Reference for Accessibility Advisory, Long-Term Care, and Emergency Management Program Committees
• Appoint Warden, CAO, Deputy CAO to Clean Energy Frontier; Deputy Warden to SWIFT board

Bruce County Council approved several items at its February 1, 2024 meeting, including a pre-budget commitment of $430,000 for a tandem axle snowplow and a by-law to restrict vehicle weight on county bridges. Council also endorsed an update to the Maitland Valley Source Protection Plan and approved terms of reference for three committees. Council expressed support in principle for hosting the 2026 International Plowing Match and directed staff to report back with options for formal endorsement.

• Approved pre-budget purchase of one tandem axle snowplow with a proposed budget of $430,000 (Carried)
• Approved by-law to restrict weight of vehicles on County bridges and authorized agreements for Durham Street Bridge Alternate Truck Route (Carried)
• Endorsed proposed update to Maitland Valley Source Protection Plan (Carried)
• Approved Accessibility Advisory Committee Terms of Reference (Carried)
• Approved Long-Term Care Committee of Management Terms of Reference (Carried)
• Approved Emergency Management Program Committee Terms of Reference (Carried)
• Appointed Warden, CAO, Deputy CAO to Clean Energy Frontier; Commissioner of Community Development to Green Ribbon Panel; Luke Charbonneau to SWIFT board (Carried)
• Expressed support in principle for 2026 International Plowing Match, directed staff to report back with formal endorsement options

Striking Committee

The Bruce County Striking Committee is meeting electronically to review and recommend terms of reference for three committees (Accessibility Advisory, Emergency Management Program, and Long-Term Care Committee of Management) to Council for approval. The committee will also consider appointments to boards and committees. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with no substantive policy or financial decisions listed.

• Recommendation to approve Accessibility Advisory Committee Terms of Reference
• Recommendation to approve Emergency Management Program Committee Terms of Reference
• Recommendation to approve Long-Term Care Committee of Management Terms of Reference
• Recommendation to approve appointments to boards and committees

The Striking Committee met on January 25, 2024 and recommended several items to Council for approval. It recommended terms of reference for the Accessibility Advisory Committee, the Emergency Management Program Committee, and the Long-Term Care Committee of Management. It also recommended committee appointments, including the Commissioner of Community Development to the Green Ribbon Panel, the CAO, Deputy CAO and Warden to the Clean Energy Frontier, and the Deputy Warden to the SWIFT board. All recommendations carried; the committee itself only recommends, and final approval rests with Council.

• Recommended Accessibility Advisory Committee Terms of Reference to Council (carried)
• Recommended Emergency Management Program Committee Terms of Reference to Council (carried)
• Recommended Long-Term Care Committee of Management Terms of Reference to Council (carried)
• Recommended committee appointments to Council, including Commissioner of Community Development to Green Ribbon Panel, CAO/Deputy CAO/Warden to Clean Energy Frontier, and Deputy Warden to SWIFT board (carried)
• Directed staff to circulate to current Council appointees on the Accessibility Advisory Committee and Community Drug and Alcohol Strategy to ask if they wish to continue
• Adjourned at 10:26 a.m. (carried)

Long-Term Care Homes Committee of Management

The Long-Term Care Homes Committee of Management is reviewing information items regarding facility updates. The meeting includes reports and newsletters covering October, November, and December 2023.

• Long Term Care Update Report for October, November, and December 2023
• BLH Newsletters for October, November, and December 2023
• GWH Newsletters for October, November, and December 2023

The Long-Term Care Homes Committee of Management met electronically on January 18, 2024, and received a Long Term Care Update Report covering October, November, and December 2023 for information. No declarations of pecuniary interest were made. The meeting adjourned at 11:43 a.m. after starting at 11:36 a.m. The minutes record no substantive decisions beyond receiving the report and adjourning.

• Received Long Term Care Update Report for October, November, and December 2023 for information
• Adjourned at 11:43 a.m. (moved by Councillor Mark Goetz, carried)

Bruce County Council

Bruce County Council is meeting electronically to consider several reports and motions. The main decision is whether to approve an Affordable Housing Development Charges Exemption Policy, which would exempt certain affordable housing developments from development charges. Council will also consider adopting the 2024 budget by-law and a by-law to confirm proceedings, and will move into closed session to discuss labour relations and a CUPE settlement.

• Affordable Housing Development Charges Exemption Policy – approval motion
• By-law 2024-010 – Adopt the Budget for 2024
• Financial Indicator Review – 2022 (information report)
• Update on Housing Supply and Affordability in Bruce County (information report)
• Closed session: labour relations update, CUPE memorandum of settlement ratification

Council approved the 2024 budget and a new Affordable Housing Development Charges Exemption Policy. The council also ratified a settlement memorandum with CUPE Local 255.13.

• Approved the 2024 Budget via By-law 2024-010 (Carried)
• Approved the Affordable Housing Development Charges Exemption Policy (Carried)
• Approved Memorandum of Settlement with CUPE Local 255.13 for Transportation and Environmental Services (Carried)
• Approved minutes from January 11, 2024 meeting (Carried)

Bruce County Council

Bruce County Council is meeting to consider a revised 2024 budget that adjusts for new infrastructure funding and reduces a reserve transfer, while keeping the levy increase at 6.16%. Council will also vote on nine by-laws covering temporary borrowing, solicitor appointment, an IT services agreement with Kincardine, fees and charges, and several service agreements. Reports for information include the 2023 BMA Municipal Study, purchasing policy suspensions, awarded tenders, and an Indigenous Reconciliation update. A closed session is scheduled for a legal matter related to planning.

• 2024 budget revision: reduce Tax Stabilization Reserve transfer by $305,000, keep levy increase at 6.16%
• By-law 2024-001: authorize temporary borrowing for 2024 current expenditures
• By-law 2024-003: Integrated Technology Services Agreement with Municipality of Kincardine
• By-law 2024-004: establish fees and charges for the County
• Delegation: Provincial Offences Court Annual Report by Amanda Kokas

Bruce County Council approved a revision to the 2024 budget that adds Canada Community Building Fund and Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund revenues and transfers an equal amount to capital infrastructure reserves. The transfer from the Tax Stabilization Reserve used to offset general operating costs was reduced by $305,000 to keep the total levy increase after growth at 6.16%. Council repealed by-law 2023-047 adopting the 2024 budget and directed that a new budget by-law with the revisions be brought forward. Council also approved revisions to the Museum Facility Rental Policy and passed nine by-laws covering temporary borrowing, solicitor appointment, an Integrated Technology Services Agreement with the Municipality of Kincardine, fees and charges, and several agreements.

• Approved 2024 budget amendment adding Canada Community Building Fund and Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund revenues and transferring an equal amount to capital infrastructure reserves (Carried)
• Reduced Tax Stabilization Reserve transfer by $305,000 to maintain total levy increase after growth at 6.16% (Carried)
• Repealed by-law 2023-047 adopting the 2024 budget; new budget by-law to be brought forward (Carried)
• Approved revisions to the Museum Facility Rental Policy (Carried)
• Approved By-law 2024-001 authorizing temporary borrowing for 2024 expenditures (Carried)
• Approved By-law 2024-002 appointing a solicitor for the County of Bruce (Carried)
• Approved By-law 2024-003 authorizing an Integrated Technology Services Agreement with the Municipality of Kincardine (Carried)
• Approved By-law 2024-004 establishing fees and charges for the County of Bruce (Carried)