Kenora public meetings in 2025

Regular Meeting of Council

Kenora City Council will consider adopting the 2026 Water, Wastewater, Solid Waste Utility Budget and the 2026 Capital Budget, which set rates and spending for the coming year. Council will also vote on the 2024 Audited Financial Statements, a zoning bylaw amendment for 67 and 69 Amethyst Street, and the assumption of lands for widening a municipal highway. A notice of motion from Councillor Chaze proposes a public encampment and public space management policy.

• Adopt 2026 Utility Budget (Water, Wastewater, Solid Waste) and 2026 Capital Budget
• Adopt 2024 Audited Financial Statements
• Assumption of lands (Plan 23R-15255) for widening a municipal highway
• Zoning Bylaw Amendment #D14-25-08 for 67 and 69 Amethyst Street
• Notice of Motion: Public Encampment and Public Space Management Policy by Councillor Chaze

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review several reports, including the 2024 audited financial statements and draft 2026 utility and capital budgets. Council intends to adopt the audited statements, the 2026 budgets, and the land assumption for a municipal highway widening at its December 16 meeting. A public proceeding will be held on a zoning amendment for 67 and 69 Amethyst Street. The committee will also consider moving to a closed session to discuss council education, land disposition, and labour‑relations matters.

• Public Information Notice: Council plans to adopt the 2024 Audited Financial Statements at the Dec 16 meeting
• Public Information Notice: Council plans to adopt the 2026 Utility and Capital Budgets at the Dec 16 meeting
• Assumption of lands for widening a municipal highway (legal description in Plan 23R‑15255)
• Zoning amendment public hearing for D14‑25‑08 – 67 and 69 Amethyst Street
• Motion to adjourn to a closed session to discuss council education, land disposition, and labour‑relations updates

Special Committee of the Whole

This special committee of the whole is discussing the 2026 draft utility budgets, including water and solid waste rates, and the 2026 draft capital budget (excluding utilities). No public information notices have been submitted. The meeting includes a land acknowledgment and declarations of pecuniary interest.

• Review of 2026 Draft Utility Budget
• Budget Decision Report on 2026 Solid Waste Rates
• Review of 2026 Draft Capital Budget (excluding utilities)

Regular Meeting of Council

The Kenora City Council will review budget requests from community groups and approve tenders for water and wastewater infrastructure upgrades. The meeting includes a closed session to discuss confidential negotiations.

• 2026 Budget Request - Triple Play
• 2026 Budget Request - Lake of the Woods Regional Community Foundation
• Sierra Construction pump replacement and electrical upgrades ($2,907,000)
• Cambrian Vacuum CCTV pipe inspection ($128,745.93)
• Traffic and Parking Amendment - 2nd Street South

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will hear several deputations, including a housing needs assessment and a capital needs assessment for water and wastewater infrastructure. Reports cover Q3 updates from multiple departments, a sign variance at 534 Park Street, a facility sponsorship and naming rights policy, and advocacy items for highway safety and mandatory water safety. The meeting will also consider amendments to the emergency management plan and close with a closed session for labour and council training matters.

• Financial Status and Forecast report for September 30, 2025
• Housing Needs Assessment presentation by Tim Welch Consulting
• Capital Needs Assessment Reports for water and wastewater infrastructure
• Sign Variance Request at 534 Park Street
• Facility Sponsorship and Naming Rights Policy

Special Council Meeting

The council will consider a $450,000 amendment to the 2025 Water and Wastewater utility budget, to be debt‑financed, for the Water Treatment Plant High Lift and Low Lift Pump Replacement – Phase 1. An update on emergency repairs at the Wastewater Treatment Plant will be presented. The council will also conduct three readings of By‑law #153‑2025, which enacts the budget amendment.

• $450,000 amendment to the 2025 Water and Wastewater utility budget for High Lift and Low Lift Pump Replacement – Phase 1
• Wastewater Treatment Plant Emergency Repairs Update (report attached)
• By‑law #153‑2025 – Budget amendment for water treatment plant pump replacement (three readings)

Council approved a $450,000 amendment to the 2025 Water and Wastewater utility budget, to be debt‑financed, for Phase 1 of the Water Treatment Plant high‑lift and low‑lift pump replacement project. The council also approved By‑law 153‑2025 to be read for a first and second time and moved forward for a third and final reading. The meeting was formally adjourned at 2:11 p.m.

• Approved $450,000 budget amendment for Water Treatment Plant pump replacement (Resolution 1)
• Approved By‑law 153‑2025 first & second reading, sent for third reading (Resolution 2)
• Adjourned meeting at 2:11 p.m. (Resolution 3)

Regular Meeting of Council

Council will consider capital project updates, approve tenders for wastewater plant repairs and roofing, and amend tariff of fees for ice candles. Multiple by-laws for agreements and policies will receive readings, and a closed session will discuss the CAO position.

• Award $1,094,970 tender to KEM Construction for wastewater treatment plant aeration tank repairs
• Award $135,526 roofing tender to Garland/DBS Canada Inc.
• Amend Tariff of Fees & Charges to increase ice candle fees
• Update Investment Policy Statement
• Establish 2026 Council Meeting Calendar & Conference Attendance

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss updating the City's Investment Policy Statement and the 2026 Council meeting calendar. The body is also considering a fee increase for ice candles and a policy update for the Coney Island floating walkway.

• Amendment to Tariff of Fees & Charges to increase ice candle fees
• Update to the City's Investment Policy Statement (IPS)
• Coney Island Floating Walkway Policy #IO-7-1 update
• Establishment of the 2026 Council Meeting Calendar & Conference Attendance
• Lake of the Woods Regional Community Foundation Agreement

Special Council Meeting

Council will consider permanently closing a portion of Cross Street and declaring the land surplus, as well as removing a holding provision from the R3[H] zoning on Fourth Street South.

• Authorize closing Cross Street (PIN 42168-0596) and declaring surplus
• Remove holding provision from R3[H] zoning on Fourth Street South
• By-law 135-2025: Stop Up, Close, Declare Surplus - Cross Street
• By-law 136-2025: Removal of Holding Provision - Fourth Street South

Special Committee of the Whole

The Special Committee of the Whole will consider revisions required for the City of Kenora's Official Plan and Zoning By-law. Public members may speak or submit written comments on the proposed updates. The meeting includes a presentation of the Official Plan Review document.

• Official Plan and Zoning By-law Review (Item 6.1) – presentation of the OPR document

Regular Meeting of Council

The City of Kenora Council will consider adopting an alternative voting method for the 2026 municipal election, along with several land surplus declarations and bylaw amendments. The meeting also includes reports on water infrastructure, road maintenance, and funding applications.

• Authorize alternative voting method for 2026 election
• Declare lands surplus - Highway 17E (former Tourism Centre site)
• Stop up, close, surplus and sell portion of road allowance - Minnesota Street
• Winter Maintenance Policy #IO-4-1
• Tenders: Keewatin Channel bridge recoating & structural repairs ($9,902,508.42)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will consider adopting notices to close and sell a portion of the road allowance on Minnesota Street and to declare the former Tourism Centre site on Highway 17E as surplus. The agenda also includes reports on winter maintenance, financial forecasts, and the 2026 election voting method.

• Stop up, close, surplus and sell portion of road allowance - Minnesota Street
• Declare Lands Surplus - Highway 17E (former Tourism Centre site)
• Authorize an alternative voting method for the 2026 election
• Winter Maintenance Policy revisions
• Taxi Bylaw review and rideshare options

Special Committee of the Whole

The Special Committee of the Whole is meeting to adjourn to a closed session to discuss litigation regarding recreation lands and a CAO update for council training. No other business is on the agenda.

• Closed session: litigation or potential litigation affecting the municipality (1 matter - recreation lands)
• Closed session: educating and training members of council (1 matter - CAO update)

The council voted to adjourn to a closed session at 4:01 p.m. to consider litigation involving recreation lands and to receive education and training updates. The motion was carried. After the closed session, the council reported discussion of litigation steps and education from the Co‑CAOs, then adjourned the meeting at 6:57 p.m.

• Adjourned to closed session to discuss litigation and training (motion carried)
• Returned from closed session and adjourned meeting (no vote recorded)

Special Council Meeting

This special meeting will decide on permanently closing portions of Thirteenth Street, Regina Avenue, and Sultana Avenue on Registered Plan M-39, and declaring numerous lots surplus. Council will also give three readings to by-laws that close roads and authorize the sale of surplus lands to the Ministry of Infrastructure through Infrastructure Ontario. A closed session is scheduled for solicitor-client advice.

• Declare Lots 131-157, 219-222, 228-231, 237-240 M-39 as surplus
• Permanently close portions of Thirteenth Street (formerly Sultana Ave), Regina Avenue (formerly Sweden St), and Sultana Avenue (formerly lane on M-39)
• By-law to close and declare surplus parts of roads and lanes on M-39
• By-law to declare lands surplus and authorize sale to Ministry of Infrastructure via Infrastructure Ontario
• Closed session for solicitor-client advice (1 matter)

The council declared Lots 131‑157, 219‑222, 228‑231, and 237‑240 on plan M‑39 surplus and permanently closed portions of Thirteenth, Regina and Sultana Avenues. It authorized the direct sale of those lands to the Ministry of Infrastructure through Infrastructure Ontario and approved the related bylaws. The council also authorized the expropriation of the property at 155 Main Street South for community improvement and heritage preservation. All motions were carried.

• Declared Lots 131‑157, 219‑222, 228‑231, 237‑240 M‑39 surplus and closed portions of Thirteenth, Regina and Sultana Avenues (carried)
• Authorized sale of the surplus lands to Infrastructure Ontario (carried)
• Approved By‑law #114‑2025 to permanently close and declare surplus parts of roads on M‑39 (first & second reading, carried)
• Approved By‑law #115‑2025 to declare lands surplus and authorize sale to Infrastructure Ontario (first & second reading, carried)
• Authorized expropriation of 155 Main Street South for community improvement and heritage preservation (carried)
• Approved By‑law #116‑2025 Expropriation Authorization – Kenricia Hotel (first & second reading, carried)
• Authorized a closed session to receive solicitor‑client privileged advice (carried)
• Adjourned the meeting at 5:47 p.m. (carried)

Regular Meeting of Council

The City of Kenora Council will consider adopting a budget amendment of $212,000 for the Central Community Club project and three readings for various by-laws including a site plan control bylaw and agreements with Tbaytel and MNP.

• Budget amendment of $212,000 for Central Community Club project
• Three readings for Site Plan Control Bylaw
• Three readings for Donbrock Drive Speed Limit by-law
• Three readings for Water treatment plan tank repairs agreement
• Three readings for Municipal Policing Study agreement

The council adopted the 2023 audited financial statements and accepted the 2025/2026 municipal insurance premiums totaling $932,301. It approved a $212,000 budget amendment for the Central Community Club green space and outdoor rink project. The council also approved the 2025‑2034 Water & Wastewater Long Range Financial Plan, a Site Plan Control by‑law amendment, a lease of 80 Government Road, a package of by‑laws (101‑113), and a settlement agreement with 5901058 Manitoba Ltd.

• Approved 2023 audited financial statements (Resolution 3) – carried
• Accepted 2025/2026 insurance premiums totaling $932,301 (Resolution 4) – carried
• Approved $212,000 budget amendment for Central Community Club (Resolution 5) – carried
• Approved 2025‑2034 Water & Wastewater Long Range Financial Plan (Resolution 6) – carried (4‑2 vote)
• Approved amendment to Site Plan Control By‑law (Resolution 7) – carried
• Approved lease agreement for portion of 80 Government Road (Resolution 8) – carried
• Approved by‑laws 101‑113 for first and second reading (Resolution 9) – carried
• Approved settlement agreement with 5901058 Manitoba Ltd. (Resolution 11a) – carried

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is discussing and will recommend several items for Council's July 15 meeting, including a $212,000 budget amendment for the Central Community Club project, adoption of the Water & Wastewater 2025-2034 Long Range Financial Plan, and the 2023 audited financial statements. The committee also hears presentations on health recruitment, immigration policy impacts, OPP board annual report, and the audit. Reports cover insurance renewal, youth engagement, water rate study, Donbrock Drive speed limit, updated site plan control bylaw, a Tbaytel license agreement, and a Keewatin boat lift feasibility study. The meeting will then move into closed session for land disposition and solicitor-client matters.

• Budget amendment of $212,000 from Parks and Recreation Reserves for Central Community Club
• Water & Wastewater 2025-2034 Long Range Financial Plan for adoption
• 2023 audited financial statements for adoption
• Donbrock Drive speed limit report
• Updated Site Plan Control Bylaw presented

The Committee confirmed the minutes from the June 2025 meetings. Council approved the 2023 audited financial statements and accepted the 2025 municipal insurance premiums, with Councillor Koch abstaining. A $212,000 budget amendment was approved to fund the Central Community Club green‑space project and the new outdoor rink. The draft Kenora Youth Engagement Guide was also accepted.

• Confirmed June 17, 2025 and June 5 & 12, 2025 Committee of the Whole minutes (carried)
• Approved the City of Kenora’s 2023 audited financial statements
• Accepted 2025 insurance premiums (Councillor Koch abstained)
• Approved a $212,000 budget amendment for Central Community Club green space and outdoor rink
• Accepted the draft Kenora Youth Engagement Guide

Special Council Meeting

This special meeting of Kenora City Council is called to amend the 2025 Capital Budget by adding $4,360,000 to award the Keewatin Channel Bridge Recoating and Steel Repairs Project. Council will give three readings to the corresponding by-law (100-2025). No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Budget amendment of $4,360,000 for Keewatin Channel Bridge recoating and steel repairs
• Three readings of By-law 100-2025 to enact the budget amendment
• Public information notice regarding the budget amendment as required under Notice By-law #160-2022

Regular Meeting of Council

Council will decide on a $95,000 budget amendment to fund a Municipal Policing Study, approve tenders including Moncrief Construction ($2,905,686.54) for sewer and water reconstruction, and pass several by-laws including zoning amendments on Fourth St S and parking, a subdivision on Jones Rd, and multiple agreements. The meeting also includes a proclamation for Indigenous Survivors Day and a closed session for legal and land matters.

• Budget amendment of $95,000 from contingency reserves for Municipal Policing Study
• Tenders: Moncrief Construction $2,905,686.54 (sewer/water), Titan Contractors $1,977,274 (paving), Parkwest Projects $958,451.13 (MCSC lobby)
• Zoning bylaw amendments: D14-25-04 on Fourth St S and D14-25-03 on parking regulations
• Draft plan of subdivision D07-25-01 on Jones Rd
• By-laws for agreements with Moncrief, Titan, Parkwest, Pioneer Construction, Northwest Roads Management, and others

The council adopted the May 20, 2025 minutes and the consent agenda items. It passed a resolution supporting the Elect Respect pledge and authorized Councillor Koch to attend the AMO conference. A budget amendment of $95,000 (plus HST) was approved to fund a Municipal Policing Study. Several zoning and parking bylaw amendments were also approved.

• Adopted May 20, 2025 council minutes (CARRIED)
• Adopted consent agenda items (CARRIED)
• Supported Elect Respect pledge (CARRIED)
• Authorized Councillor Koch to attend AMO conference (CARRIED)
• Approved $95,000 budget amendment for Municipal Policing Study (CARRIED)
• Established seasonal long‑term parking fee $132.74/month at 80 Government Rd (CARRIED)
• Approved zoning bylaw amendment D14‑25‑04 to rezone Fourth St S to R3[H] (CARRIED)
• Approved zoning bylaw amendment D14‑25‑03 reducing parking requirements (CARRIED)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will hear a notice of motion on municipal police costing options and consider zoning bylaw amendments for Fourth St S and parking requirements. Reports on the 2025 Q1 financial status, a communications strategy, and a plan of subdivision for Jones Road will also be presented. The meeting includes a proclamation for Senior's Month and a motion to move into closed session for personnel, legal, and commercial matters.

• Notice of Motion on Municipal Police Costing options
• Zoning Bylaw Amendment for Fourth St S (D14-25-04)
• Zoning Bylaw Amendment for Parking Requirements (D14-25-03)
• Plan of Subdivision for Jones Road (D07-25-01)
• 80 Government Road short-term seasonal parking bylaw amendment

The Committee of the Whole confirmed the May 13 minutes and accepted the draft Corporate Communications Plan 2025‑2027, directing its implementation. Council accepted the 2025 Q1 financial status report and authorized a $95,000 municipal policing study funded from contingency reserves. A seasonal parking fee of $132.74 per month plus HST was established for 80 Government Road, and a resolution opposing Strong Mayor Powers was adopted. Zoning amendments were approved for Fourth Street South and parking requirements, and a subdivision plan for Jones Road was accepted.

• Confirmed May 13 Committee of the Whole minutes (carried)
• Accepted draft Corporate Communications Plan 2025‑2027 and directed implementation
• Accepted 2025 Q1 Financial Status report as information
• Directed Municipal Policing Study with MNP, funding $95,000 + HST from contingency reserves and authorized budget amendment
• Established seasonal long‑term parking at 80 Government Road at $132.74 per month plus HST (July‑Aug 2025)
• Adopted resolution opposing Ontario's Strong Mayor Powers and to forward it to provincial officials
• Approved zoning bylaw amendment to rezone Lots 2‑6, Plan M25 on Fourth Street South from R2 to R3[H]
• Approved zoning bylaw amendment reducing parking requirements for apartments and other dwellings

Special Committee of the Whole

The council voted to move into a closed session at 3:06 p.m. to discuss a labour‑relations matter. The resolution was carried. After the closed session, the council reconvened at 5:00 p.m., received a report on the labour‑relations issue, and then adjourned.

• Adjourn to closed session on labour relations matter – carried
• Reopen session after closed session and adjourn meeting – completed

Special Committee of the Whole

The Special Committee of the Whole will meet to conduct a visioning session for the Community Improvement Plan review. The committee is also scheduled to hold a preliminary discussion regarding the 2026 budget.

• Community Improvement Plan Review visioning session
• 2026 Preliminary Budget Discussion

The Special Committee of the Whole met on June 5, 2025 at City Hall. Council members heard a presentation on the City’s Community Improvement Plan and discussed the upcoming 2026 preliminary budget. No motions were moved, no votes were taken, and no decisions were recorded.

Regular Meeting of Council

Council will vote on setting 2025 tax ratios and rates, adopting the 2025 Business Improvement Board levy, and amending the 2023 capital budget to award up to $395,000 for the MCSC Lobby & General Improvements project. Other business includes a consent agenda with routine reports and by-laws, a notice of motion to investigate a ride-share bylaw, and a closed session for litigation and personnel matters.

• Set 2025 tax ratios and tax rates
• Amend 2023 Capital budget up to $395,000 for MCSC Lobby & General Improvements project funded by surplus from MCSC Rink Slab Replacement and recreation reserves
• Adopt 2025 Business Improvement Board Levy
• Award of Keewatin Library roof repairs to Sierra Construction for $530,648
• Notice of motion by Councillor Chaze to investigate a ride-share bylaw

The council adopted the April 15, 2025 meeting minutes and approved the public consent agenda items. It approved an application to the province’s Health and Safety Water Stream for water and wastewater infrastructure funding. The council resolved to re‑tender the 2025 Water & Wastewater Piping Renewal project, removing the Mellick Avenue portion to keep the work within the existing budget.

• Adopted April 15, 2025 council minutes (Resolution 1)
• Adopted public consent agenda items (Resolution 2)
• Approved application to provincial Health and Safety Water Stream
• Directed administration to re‑tender and award a reduced scope of the water & wastewater piping renewal, removing the Mellick Avenue segment (Resolution 3)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee will review 2025 tax rates, ratios, and the Business Improvement Board Levy. The meeting includes an introduction to the 2026 budget and various first-quarter departmental reports. Members will also consider updates to water delivery and ice allocation policies.

• 2025 tax rates and ratios
• 2025 Business Improvement Board (BIZ) Levy
• Tank Truck Water Delivery Policy #OI-2-1
• Ice Allocation Policy #CS-1-1
• Integrity Commissioner 2024 Annual Report

The Committee of the Whole confirmed the minutes from the April 8, 2025 meeting. Council adopted the 2025 tax rates and set the process for three readings of the related by‑laws. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Confirmed April 8, 2025 Committee of the Whole minutes (carried)
• Adopted 2025 tax rates (no vote tally recorded)

Regular Meeting of Council

The council will adopt three capital budget amendments: $500,000 for the Keewatin Library roof replacement, $750,000 to fund the 2025 municipal paving program on Ninth St N, and $600,000 for design and construction of interim repairs to the Portage Bay bridge. The meeting will also include three‑reading by‑law approvals for items such as the Community Safety & Well Being Committee Terms of Reference and the CUPE Local 191 Collective Agreement ratification. Additional agenda items cover routine consent agenda reports, tender information, and a closed‑session for education and personal matters.

• Authorize a $500,000 budget amendment for the Keewatin Library roof replacement
• Authorize a $750,000 capital budget amendment for the 2025 municipal paving program on Ninth St N
• Authorize a $600,000 capital budget amendment for design and construction of Portage Bay bridge interim repairs
• Three‑reading by‑law approval for the Community Safety & Well Being Committee Terms of Reference
• Three‑reading by‑law approval for the CUPE Local 191 Collective Agreement ratification

The council adopted several capital budget amendments, including $500,000 for the Keewatin Library roof replacement, $750,000 for the Ninth Street North municipal paving program, and $600,000 for interim repairs to the Portage Bay Bridge. It also approved the city’s contribution to the library roof project, ratified the CUPE Local 191 collective agreement, and changed the Deputy Mayor rotation to a permanent term for 2026‑2030. The amendment to the Ice Allocation Policy was defeated and deferred to a later meeting.

• Approved $500,000 budget amendment for Keewatin Library roof replacement (CARRIED)
• Approved $750,000 budget amendment for municipal paving on Ninth St N (CARRIED)
• Approved $600,000 budget amendment for Portage Bay Bridge interim repairs (CARRIED)
• Approved $500,000 NOHFC funding application for Keewatin Library roof (CARRIED)
• Amended Terms of Reference for Crime Prevention and Community Well‑Being Advisory Committee (CARRIED)
• Changed Deputy Mayor rotation to a permanent term for 2026‑2030 (CARRIED)
• Ratified CUPE Local 191 collective agreement (CARRIED)
• Ice Allocation Policy amendment defeated; motion deferred to May 20, 2025 (DEFEATED)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review three capital budget amendments: $500,000 for the Keewatin Library roof replacement, $750,000 to fund the 2025 municipal paving program on Ninth St N, and $600,000 for design and construction to reopen the Portage Bay bridge. These items are slated for adoption at the Council meeting on April 15, 2025. Additional reports and presentations on infrastructure, finance, and public safety will also be discussed.

• Authorize $500,000 budget amendment for Keewatin Library roof replacement
• Authorize $750,000 budget amendment for 2025 municipal paving on Ninth St N
• Authorize $600,000 budget amendment for Portage Bay bridge repair design and construction
• Presentation of 2024 bridge inspection summary by Stantec
• Review of CUPE Local 191 collective agreement ratification

The Committee of the Whole confirmed the minutes from the March 4, 2025 meeting. No other motions were adopted; the council discussed bridge inspections, policing initiatives, an ice‑allocation policy, and a governance framework proposal.

• Confirmed March 4 Committee of the Whole minutes (carried)

Regular Meeting of Council

Council will decide on adopting the 2025 Operating Budget, the Community Safety & Well Being Plan, and new Water & Wastewater rates. A zoning bylaw amendment for barrier-free parking and a presentation on ice allocation policy are also on the agenda. Several tenders and by-laws will be considered, including a $2.57M rink slab replacement contract.

• Adopt 2025 Operating Budget
• Adopt Community Safety & Well Being Plan
• New Water & Wastewater rates
• Zoning Bylaw Amendment D14-25-02 – Barrier Free Parking
• Tender award: Parkwest Projects Ltd. for Moncrief Construction Sports Centre Rink Slab Replacement – $2,568,621.61

Council approved the 2025-2027 Municipal Operating Budget by a 4-3 vote, with Mayor Poirier and Councillors Manson and Moncrief opposed. Council also adopted the Community Safety and Well-Being Plan, approved a zoning bylaw amendment for barrier-free parking, and directed staff to incorporate a new water/wastewater rate structure with phase-in into the long-term financial plan. A motion to replace the Keewatin Library roof with NOHFC funding was defeated, but an amended motion to proceed using city reserves was carried.

• Approved 2025-2027 Municipal Operating Budget (4-3)
• Adopted Community Safety and Well-Being Plan
• Approved Zoning Bylaw Amendment D14-25-02 for barrier-free parking
• Directed staff to incorporate Option 1 rate structure with phase-in for water/wastewater (5-2)
• Defeated motion for Keewatin Library roof replacement with NOHFC funding
• Carried amended motion to repair Keewatin Library roof using city reserves
• Supported Mayor Poirier for NOMA Board of Directors
• Appointed Andrew Bezarevic to Sustainability Advisory Committee

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will hear deputations from the Kenora Public Library Board, New Horizons Senior Centre, and a consultant on the Community Safety & Well Being Plan. Reports include the 2025 operating budget, year-end financial status, water and wastewater rate study options, and a zoning bylaw amendment for barrier-free parking. The public is advised that council intends to adopt the 2025 operating budget, the Community Safety & Well Being Plan, and new water/wastewater rates at its March 18 meeting. The meeting will also move into closed session for bargaining, appointments, and development negotiations.

• Public notice of intention to adopt 2025 Operating Budget at March 18 council meeting
• Public notice of intention to adopt Community Safety & Well Being Plan
• Public notice of intention to consider new Water & Wastewater rates
• Deputation: Kenora Public Library Board requesting infrastructure funding for Keewatin library services
• Report on Water Wastewater Rate Study Options

The Committee of the Whole approved the 2025-2027 Municipal Operating Budget, which includes a 9.09% increase in the net tax levy, and gave notice for formal adoption on March 18, 2025. Council also directed administration to incorporate Option 2 (phased-in AWWA equivalency ratios) into the water and wastewater rate study, adopted the Community Safety and Well-Being Plan, and approved a zoning bylaw amendment for barrier-free parking. The committee received several Q4 reports and updates, including a bargaining update with CUPE Local 191, with a strike deadline of March 8.

• Approved 2025-2027 Municipal Operating Budget with 9.09% tax levy increase
• Directed administration to incorporate Option 2 (phased-in AWWA equivalency ratios) into water/wastewater rate study
• Adopted Community Safety and Well-Being Plan
• Approved zoning bylaw amendment D14-25-02 for barrier-free parking (AODA alignment)
• Approved stop sign addition on Eighth Street North
• Received Q4 reports for multiple departments
• Received CUPE Local 191 bargaining update
• Adopted amended Terms of Reference for Sustainability Advisory Committee

Special Committee of the Whole

The Special Committee of the Whole will review the 2025 operating budget summary. It will also consider moving into closed session to discuss labour relations related to budget staffing impacts. No other items are on the agenda.

• 2025 Operating Budget Review (attached budget summary)

Council reviewed the draft 2025 operating budget, which currently shows an 8.12% increase to the net tax levy. Administration proposed savings of 1% by removing the General Manager of IT position, the economic increase, and part of the fire vehicle replacement program, but Council decided to keep these items in the budget. Council also discussed potential cuts to Council budgets, such as travel and memberships, with the Mayor to bring a future motion on travel budgets. The budget will be advanced to the March 4, 2025 Committee of the Whole meeting for further consideration.

• Advanced 2025 operating budget to March 4 Committee of the Whole meeting
• Kept IT Manager position, economic adjustment, and fire vehicle replacement program in budget
• Mayor to bring future motion on travel budget limits and conference attendance

Regular Meeting of Council

Council will consider a public information notice to amend the 2025 capital budget for the Sixth Street/Sixth Avenue South project and commit funding for 2026 arterial roads resurfacing. Several by-laws are up for readings, including the budget amendment, appointment of a Chief Building Official, and agreements for janitorial services, OPP dispatch, and McLeod Park phase II. Other items include a tender for Bee Clean Janitorial Services at $176,930.92, a Keewatin Library structural assessment report, and direction on Anicinabe Park operations. A notice of motion calls for a value-for-money audit of strategic alignment.

• Public information notice to amend 2025 capital budget for Sixth Street/Sixth Avenue South and commit to 2026 arterial roads resurfacing
• Tender for Bee Clean Janitorial Services totaling $176,930.92
• By-laws: appoint Chief Building Official, approve FedNor and HTFC agreements for McLeod Park phase II, and OPP dispatch services agreement
• Keewatin Library Structural Assessment Report
• Council direction on 2025 operation of Anicinabe Park

Council defeated a motion to advance the Sixth Street/Sixth Avenue South project from the 2026 capital budget to 2025 and commit $1,276,500 from the 2026 Net Tax Levy for arterial roads resurfacing. Council also directed administration to contract out Anicinabe Park operations for 2025, received the Keewatin Library structural assessment, and appointed Karen Ingebrigtson to the MUSE Board.

• Defeated motion to advance Sixth Street/Sixth Avenue South project to 2025 and commit $1,276,500 from 2026 Net Tax Levy
• Directed administration to contract out Anicinabe Park operations for 2025 (carried)
• Received Keewatin Library structural assessment report (carried)
• Appointed Karen Ingebrigtson to MUSE Board (carried)
• Authorized application to Health & Safety Water Stream Fund (carried)
• Adopted consent agenda including 2023 write-offs and Chief Building Official appointment (carried)
• Gave first and second reading to By-laws 7-2025 to 15-2025 (carried)
• Tied vote on motion for value-for-money audit of strategic realignment (defeated)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will hear deputations on equine assisted therapy and Housing First initiatives, and receive a presentation on a water/wastewater rate study. Reports include 2023 write-offs, an application to Health & Safety Water Stream funding, and the appointment of a Chief Building Official. The committee will also move to a closed session for personal matters, land disposition, and council training.

• Watson & Associates water/wastewater rate study presentation
• 2023 Write Off's report
• Application to Health & Safety Water Stream funding
• Chief Building Official appointment
• Closed session for MUSE Board appointment, development agreement, and training

The Committee of the Whole received the final Water and Wastewater Rate Study from Watson & Associates, which outlined options for rate structure changes and noted the system is underfunded. No decision was made; the matter was deferred to the March 5 meeting. Council also approved write-offs totaling $5,981.82 for water, solid waste, and cemetery accounts, and authorized an application to the Health and Safety Water Stream Fund. A by-law appointing Jonathon Taylor as Chief Building Official was recommended for three readings.

• Deferred water/wastewater rate study decision to March 5 Committee of the Whole meeting
• Approved write-offs of $5,981.82 for water, solid waste, and cemetery accounts
• Authorized application to Health and Safety Water Stream Fund
• Recommended by-law appointing Jonathon Taylor as Chief Building Official (three readings)

Special Committee of the Whole

The Special Committee of the Whole will conduct a visioning workshop regarding the Official Plan and Zoning Bylaw. The meeting also includes a closed session to discuss personal matters related to Crime Prevention & Community Well-Being Advisory Committee appointments. No other decisions or public hearings are scheduled.

• Official Plan / Zoning Bylaw Council Visioning Workshop (item 6.1)
• Closed session for Crime Prevention & Community Well-Being Advisory Committee appointments

The Special Committee of the Whole met on February 4, 2025, and held a Council Visioning Workshop to gather input for the new Official Plan and Zoning Bylaw. Council identified unique features of Kenora, current needs, and how the city should evolve over the next 10-20 years, and completed a priority-setting exercise. No formal decisions were made; the session was for discussion and input. Council also moved into closed session to discuss Crime Prevention & Community Well-Being Advisory Committee appointments, but no decisions were reported.

• Held visioning workshop for Official Plan and Zoning Bylaw review (no formal decision)
• Moved into closed session to discuss advisory committee appointments (carried)

Special Committee of the Whole

This is a Special Committee of the Whole meeting in Kenora. The committee will review the 2025 Operating Budget. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• 2025 Operating Budget Review

Council reviewed the 2025 operating budget, which currently requires a 9.33% net tax levy increase. They directed administration to find further reductions to lower the levy by 1%, with options to be presented at the February 20, 2025 meeting. No final budget was approved.

• Directed administration to reduce 2025 net tax levy by 1%
• Scheduled budget reduction options for February 20, 2025 meeting

Regular Meeting of Council

The City of Kenora Council will meet to decide on several by-laws, including a new procedural bylaw and updated cemetery rates. The body will also consider the removal of a holding provision for Mill Site Lot 15 and a funding agreement for OPP policing costs.

• Adoption of a new Procedural Bylaw
• Amendments to Cemetery Rates
• Removal of Holding Provision for Mill Site Lot 15
• Funding Agreement for OPP Policing Costs one time funding
• Agreement with Marcel Equipment Limited for a used Caterpillar compactor

Council adopted a new Procedural Bylaw (repealing 138-2023), approved cemetery rate corrections for Lake of the Woods Cemetery, and supported the Kenora District Services Board's levy methodology. It also approved the Drinking Water Quality Management System endorsement, removed a holding provision on Mill Site Lot 15, and passed several by-laws including appointing a bylaw enforcement officer and an OPP funding agreement.

• Adopted new Procedural Bylaw 2-2025, repealing 138-2023 (carried)
• Approved cemetery rate schedule for Lake of the Woods Cemetery, repealing 166-2024 (carried)
• Supported KDSB continuing unweighted property assessment for Net Local Levy and setting TWOMO minimum at 46.15% (carried)
• Approved Drinking Water Quality Management System Commitment and Endorsement (carried)
• Removed holding provision on Mill Site Lot 15 for R3 residential use (carried)
• Passed by-laws 1-2025 to 6-2025, including appointing Mitchell Serant-Franz as Bylaw Enforcement Officer and OPP funding agreement (carried)

Committee of the Whole

The Kenora Committee of the Whole will hear a report on a proposed amendment to the Kenora District Services Board (KDSB) levy and review a new Procedural Bylaw that Council intends to adopt on January 22, 2025. Other items include a review of the Citizen Prosperity Trust Fund, a removal of a holding provision for Mill Site Lot 15, and a verbal update on structural reports for the Keewatin Library and Portage Bay bridge. The meeting will also move into closed session to discuss labour relations, a personnel matter, and committee appointments.

• KDSB Levy Amendment report
• Procedural Bylaw review with planned adoption Jan 22
• Citizen Prosperity Trust Fund review
• Removal of holding provision for Mill Site Lot 15
• Verbal update on Keewatin Library and Portage Bay bridge structural reports

The Committee of the Whole supported the Kenora District Services Board continuing its unweighted property assessment methodology for the Net Local Levy and set a minimum of 46.15% for Territories without Municipal Organization. Council also received updates on housing projects, the Official Plan/Zoning Bylaw/CIP review, and the Citizen Prosperity Trust Fund. A procedural bylaw amendment was proposed for adoption at the January 22 meeting, and a holding provision was removed from a portion of the former mill site for residential use.

• Supported KDSB levy methodology and set TWOMO minimum at 46.15%
• Received Citizen Prosperity Trust Fund report
• Gave notice to adopt amended Procedural Bylaw at Jan 22 meeting
• Approved Drinking Water Quality Management System endorsement
• Removed holding provision on Mill Site Lot 15 for R3 residential use
• Confirmed minutes of Dec 10, 2024 meeting