Cochrane, Ontario

Regular Council

Cochrane and Suburban Planning Board

Committee of Adjustment

Regular Council

Cochrane and Suburban Planning Board

Committee of Adjustment

OPP Detachment Board-James Bay East

Regular Council

Regular Council

Committee of Adjustment

Cochrane and Suburban Planning Board

Regular Council

OPP Detachment Board-James Bay East

Regular Council

Committee of Adjustment

Cochrane and Suburban Planning Board

Regular Council

Regular Council

Cochrane and Suburban Planning Board

Committee of Adjustment

Cochrane Beautification Committee

Regular Council

The Town of Cochrane Council will read and pass three by‑laws: an agreement with Remi Papineau, the operating and capital water and wastewater budget for 2026, and a schedule of user fees and service charges. The meeting also includes a presentation from Eastlink about launching its mobile network in Cochrane on July 7. Additional items are the adoption of consent‑agenda resolutions, reports on recent RFPs for landfill monitoring well repairs and a lighting retrofit at the water treatment plant, and a resolution to rescind a prior strong‑mayor powers resolution.

• By‑Law 2026‑61 – agreement with Remi Papineau
• By‑Law 2026‑62 – adopt 2026 water and wastewater operating and capital budget
• By‑Law 2026‑63 – adopt schedule of user fees and service charges
• Eastlink presentation on launching a mobile network in Cochrane (July 7 launch)
• Report 2026‑53 – RFP 2026‑09 for Fournier Landfill monitoring well repairs

CANCELLED-Cochrane and Suburban Planning Board

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment will consider a minor variance application (A05-2026) to permit a reduced interior side yard setback of 0.61 metres for two detached garages at 59-61 Huron Road, where the zoning by-law requires 1.0 metres. Staff recommend approval, finding the variance meets all four tests under the Planning Act. The meeting will also adopt previous minutes and handle other procedural items.

• Minor variance application A05-2026 for 59-61 Huron Road to allow 0.61m interior side yard setback for two detached garages (required 1.0m)
• Staff recommendation to approve the application
• Property zoned Residential First Density (R1) and designated Residential Neighbourhood Area in Official Plan
• Public hearing scheduled for July 8, 2026 at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers

Regular Council

The regular council meeting will adopt minutes and consent agenda items, then move into closed session to discuss a proposed relocation for 2nd Street Capital Funding, an appointment to the Committee of Adjustment, and other confidential matters. No other substantive public decisions are on the agenda.

• Consent agenda includes minutes from Planning Board, Committee of Adjustment, Library Board, and OPP Detachment Board (April 2026)
• Correspondence from Ministry of the Solicitor General re. police service board elections
• Resolutions from Wawa (school board governance) and Prince Edward County (Better Regional Governance Act) received
• Confirmatory By-Law 2026-59 to ratify proceedings
• In-camera discussion of proposed relocation for 2nd Street Capital Funding under s.239(2)(i)(k) of Municipal Act

Emergency Council

Council will amend three resolutions passed June 4, 2026, that created Indigenous Cochrane Day (June 21), Franco-Cochrane Day (June 24), and Anglo Cochrane Day (June 25) as voluntary holidays. The amendments specify that these are community proclamations, not public holidays for municipal employees, and that all municipal services and facilities will remain in full operation. The meeting includes a closed session to discuss labour negotiations with CUPE Local 71.

• Amend Resolution 2026-42: Indigenous Cochrane Day (June 21) clarified as voluntary for community, not a staff holiday
• Amend Resolution 2026-43: Franco-Cochrane Day (June 24) clarified as voluntary for community, not a staff holiday
• Amend Resolution 2026-44: Anglo Cochrane Day (June 25) clarified as voluntary for community, not a staff holiday
• Closed session under s. 239(2)(d) of the Municipal Act for update on bargaining with CUPE Local 71

OPP Detachment Board-James Bay East

The OPP Detachment Board-James Bay East will receive the 2025 annual report and quarterly policing reports from Cochrane, Moosonee, and Smooth Rock Falls. The board will also vote on a by-law establishing meeting procedures and consider directing the secretary to include livestreaming costs in future budget deliberations. Correspondence from the Solicitor General regarding municipal elections and a notice from Police Governance Ontario will be received.

• Receive 2025 Detachment Board Annual Report (crime and traffic data)
• Receive quarterly OPP reports from Cochrane, Moosonee, and Smooth Rock Falls (Feb-Jun 2026)
• By-law 2026-02 to establish rules of order for board meetings (first, second, third reading and final passage)
• Staff Report 2026-01 on livestreaming: board to direct inclusion of ongoing costs in future budget
• Correspondence from Solicitor General re. police board members and elections, and notice from Police Governance Ontario

Cochrane Economic Development Steering Board

The Cochrane Economic Development Steering Board adopted its agenda and the minutes from the April 2, 2026 meeting, and accepted the April and May EDO monthly reports. It then discussed several informational items, including the BAG awards, upcoming elections, business licensing, and an online survey for the Official Plan. No formal policy decisions were made beyond routine approvals.

• Adopted agenda (moved by Adrian Struyk, seconded by Heather Decevito)
• Adopted minutes of the April 2, 2026 meeting (moved by Adrian Struyk, seconded by Dennis Draves)
• Accepted EDO April 2026 monthly report for information (moved by Heather Decevito)
• Discussed business licenses as a data/compliance tool (moved by Dennis Draves)
• Received the Official Plan Surbey (online survey) for information (moved by Lee Thomas)

Cochrane Beautification Committee

The Cochrane Beautification Committee will meet to discuss updates on the burdock report and a Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) grant, as well as a community cleanup contest, trolley projects, Little Bear flowers, a welcome billboard, a student weed program, and a community tree plaque. The agenda includes standard procedural items such as adoption of minutes and declarations of interest.

• NOHFC Grant – potential funding opportunity
• Burdock Report Update – invasive species management
• Community Clean Up Contest – planning discussion
• Trolley – project update
• Little Bear – flowers/landscaping discussion

Regular Council

The council will adopt the draft minutes from the May 26 and June 4 meetings and consider several consent agenda items, including a motion supporting the provincial‑municipal fiscal framework and a confirmatory by‑law. It will read and pass By‑Law 2026‑33 to create a Municipal Election Compliance Audit Committee and By‑Law 2026‑46 to authorize a bank loan agreement (Folio No. 0574584) with Caisse Desjardins Ontario Credit Union Inc. An in‑camera session will follow to discuss land acquisition, lease agreements, labour matters and a potential road‑funding joint venture.

• Adopt draft minutes from May 26, 2026 and June 4, 2026 meetings
• Consent agenda: Tailgate event permit update, support motion for provincial‑municipal fiscal framework, Confirmatory By‑Law 2026‑56
• By‑Law 2026‑33: Establish the 2026 Municipal Election Compliance Audit Committee
• By‑Law 2026‑46: Authorize a one‑year fixed‑term loan with Caisse Desjardins Ontario Credit Union Inc. (Folio 0574584)
• In‑camera discussion of land purchase (Eight Street), lease agreements, labour negotiations and road‑funding joint venture

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a minor variance application (A04-2026) from F. Charron to allow a reduced front yard setback (4 m vs. 15 m required) and a slight height increase (6.12 m vs. 6 m max) for an already-constructed dome accessory structure on an agricultural property. Other agenda items include adoption of previous meeting minutes and a call for applications for a vacant public member position.

• Public hearing on Minor Variance A04-2026 – 1521 Concession 4 & 5: requests 4 m front yard setback (instead of 15 m) and 6.12 m height (instead of 6 m) for accessory dome structure
• Staff report recommends approval subject to conditions
• Adoption of April 8, 2026 Committee of Adjustment minutes
• Application for vacant Public Member position on the Committee

Cochrane and Suburban Planning Board

The Cochrane and Suburban Planning Board will hold public hearings on two consent applications. The first seeks to sever a 3.2-hectare lot at 2307 Highway 652 for industrial use, requiring a zoning by-law amendment and site plan control. The second application involves property at 1267 Concession 4 & 5. The board will also handle procedural items including the adoption of minutes.

• Consent Application B2026-01 (K. Dumont & J. Mageau): sever 3.2 ha at 2307 Highway 652 for industrial use (heavy equipment repair), with conditions including zoning amendment and site plan control
• Consent Application B2026-02 (M. Massicotte & C. Dubeault): severance at 1267 Concession 4 & 5
• Appointment of Acting Secretary-Treasurer (item 2.1)
• Adoption of April 8, 2026 meeting minutes

Special Council

Council will consider three notices of motion to declare June 21, 24, and 25 as voluntary holidays for Indigenous, Francophone, and Anglophone communities under the 'Shared Shores' framework. Other items include authorizing an in-kind donation for the Blue Heart Festival, approving a $10,000 contribution to the 2026 Bearfest and Monster Truck Show, amending the June meeting schedule due to staff unavailability, and passing by-laws for agreements with A2Z Civil Inc. and CIMCO Refrigeration.

• Three voluntary holidays proposed for Indigenous (June 21), Francophone (June 24), and Anglophone (June 25) communities
• In-kind donation to support Blue Heart Festival
• $10,000 from Recreation Board Reserve for 2026 Bearfest and Monster Truck Show
• By-laws for agreements with A2Z Civil Inc. and CIMCO Refrigeration
• Regular June Council meeting schedule amended to June 16 and 30

Regular Council

Council will consider approving the 2026 Water and Wastewater Budget, and is recommended to reject and cancel the $9,503,286.78 tender from MCA Contracting for the Cochrane Second Street Upgrades Project due to significant variance from the engineer's estimate. Other items include a deeming by-law for lots at 39 and 41 Algonquin Road, establishment of a joint compliance audit committee, and replacement of chiller equipment at Tim Hortons Event Centre. Several reports are for information only.

• Reject and cancel $9.5M tender from MCA Contracting for Second Street Upgrades due to cost variance
• Approve 2026 Water and Wastewater Budget
• Deem Lots 74 and 75 on Plan M406C (39 and 41 Algonquin Rd) no longer part of registered plan
• Establish joint Compliance Audit Committee with eight neighbouring towns for municipal elections
• Award contract for replacement of chiller, compressor, sub-floor brine pump at Tim Hortons Event Centre (financial details in closed session)

Cochrane Beautification Committee

The Cochrane Beautification Committee will consider updates on the welcome sign at Railway Park and staining of the boardwalk. It will discuss council results concerning the designation of burdock as a noxious invasive weed and a request to apply for Northern Ontario Heritage Fund funding for the Railway Park train renovation. Additional items include tree planting, a community clean‑up contest, and the Little Bear Flowers project.

• Welcome sign at Railway Park
• Staining of the boardwalk
• Request to designate burdock as a noxious invasive weed
• Proposal to seek NOHFC funding for Railway Park train renovation
• Tree planting initiative

CANCELLED-Cochrane and Suburban Planning Board

CANCELLED-Committee of Adjustment

Regular Council - 12 May 2026-RESCHEDULED to May 13

The Cochrane Town Council will consider a twelve‑month renewal of a government‑relations advisory contract with Jenni Byrne & Associates Inc. for $48,000 plus HST. It will also vote on two by‑laws: one amending By‑Law 2026‑31 and another entering an agreement with Sky Wrench Inc. Additional items include a request to seek NOHFC funding for a historic train renovation in Railway Park and a directive to staff to draft a report on designating burdock as a noxious invasive weed.

• Renewal of a 12‑month contract with Jenni Byrne & Associates Inc. at $48,000 plus HST (Nov 2025‑Nov 2026)
• By‑Law 2026‑47 to amend By‑Law 2026‑31
• By‑Law 2026‑48 to enter into an agreement with Sky Wrench Inc.
• Authorization to apply to the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund for the Railway Park historic train renovation project
• Council directs staff to draft a report on formally designating burdock as a noxious invasive weed

Cochrane Economic Development Steering Board

The Cochrane Economic Development Steering Board will meet on May 1, 2026 to adopt previous minutes, receive the April Monthly EDO Report, and discuss several items including the Official Plan survey (open until May 25), the BAG Awards event on May 23, municipal elections, and business licenses. The EDO report covers updates on planning, tourism, Hillcrest Park expansion, and funding such as a finalized Energy Feasibility Study agreement and student wage subsidies for 12 positions.

• Adoption of minutes from April 2, 2026
• Receive April Monthly EDO Report (includes Hillcrest Park expansion, Energy Feasibility Study funding, student wage subsidy increase to 12 positions)
• Discussion of BAG Awards ceremony on May 23, 2026
• Discussion of municipal elections
• Discussion of Official Plan community survey (open until May 25, 2026)

Regular Council

Council will vote to approve Growth Community Improvement Plan Incentive Application 09‑2025, allowing the sale of municipal land at $10 per lot. The council also directs staff to amend the Open Air Burning By‑Law to permit daytime burning permits. Reports on the Concession 6&7 and 12&1 bridge projects and the Road Paving Inspection RFP will be received, with financial results to be reviewed in closed session. By‑Law 2026‑44, authorizing an agreement with CRCS Recreation, will be read and passed.

• Growth Community Improvement Plan Incentive Application 09‑2025 – $10 per‑lot land sale (approval)
• Fire Permit By‑Law Review – directive to amend Open Air Burning By‑Law for daytime permits
• Report 2026‑26 – Concession 6&7 and 12&1 bridges – financial results to be considered in closed session
• Report 2026‑28 – RFP 2026‑04 Road Paving Inspection – financial results to be considered in closed session
• By‑Law 2026‑44 – agreement with CRCS Recreation to be read and passed

Cochrane Beautification Committee

The Cochrane Beautification Committee will discuss several upcoming projects including the Sportsman Show, a quote for burdock removal, a welcome sign, holiday light changes, and a lake cleanup. The committee will also review its list of 2026 goals and accomplishments.

• Burdock removal quote for weed control
• Welcome sign project
• Change out holiday lights and banners
• Around the lake clean up
• Review of 2026 goals and accomplishments

OPP Detachment Board-James Bay East

The OPP Detachment Board-James Bay East will hold its regular meeting on April 15, 2026, in Cochrane. Key items include a presentation from Victim Services on the Provincial Bail Notification program, a resolution to support the County of Prince Edward's call for sustainable OPP funding, and a resolution to support the Prescription Diversion Project proposed by North Bay Police Service. The board will also discuss logistics for reopening Highway 11 with plow and OPP escort coordination, and consider options for livestreaming meetings.

• Presentation from Victim Services of Nipissing District on the Provincial Bail Notification program
• Resolution to support the County of Prince Edward's call for OPP Sustainable Police Services Funding
• Resolution to support the Prescription Diversion Project proposed by North Bay Police Service and Community Drug Strategy – North Bay & Area
• Discussion on Highway 11 reopening logistics including plow and OPP escort coordination
• Discussion on options for livestreaming board meetings

Regular Council

The Town of Cochrane Council will consider several by‑laws, including one to stop‑up, close, declare surplus and sell parts of unopened road allowances on Poplar Avenue and Wyandotte Road. The council will also adopt the operating and capital budget, tax rates and tax ratios, and approve a contract for new playground equipment at Hillcrest Park. A letter from the de Blois family regarding the land sale is being received for information only.

• By‑Law 2026-30 to stop‑up, close, declare surplus and sell portions of unopened road allowances on Poplar Avenue and Wyandotte Road (M182NB)
• By‑Law 2026-35 to adopt the operating and capital budget
• By‑Law 2026-36 to adopt tax rates
• By‑Law 2026-37 to adopt tax ratios
• Contract award to CRCS Recreation for Hillcrest Park playground equipment, $158,711.34 plus HST

Cochrane and Suburban Planning Board

The Planning Board will receive a presentation from J.L. Richards on a Background and Directions Report for the review and update of the Cochrane and Suburban Planning Area Official Plan. The report outlines proposed policy directions on growth, housing, agriculture, economic development, transportation, and public health and safety. The meeting is part of Phase 3 (Public and Stakeholder Engagement) of the five-phase project. No decisions are being made; this is a discussion item.

• Presentation of Background and Directions Report for Official Plan review
• Projected population growth from 5,880 (2024) to 9,400 by 2051, with 1,790 new housing units
• Proposed policy updates including affordable housing targets, ARU policies, and 15-year minimum land supply
• Updates to rural and agricultural consent policies and hazard land mapping
• Project schedule: Phase 3 engagement runs April to June 2026

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee will hear a minor variance application from Falcon Investment Inc. to build a three-storey, nine-unit apartment at 144 Fourth Street West. Variances are needed for building height, outdoor amenity space, and parking requirements. Staff recommend approval, subject to site plan control. The meeting also includes an update on a separate application at 110-112 Third Street West.

• Minor variance application A02-2026: request to permit 11m building height (max 10m under zoning by-law)
• Reduced outdoor amenity space: 44 sq m proposed vs. 54 sq m required (3.67 sq m per unit vs. 4.5 sq m)
• Reduced total parking: 14 spaces proposed vs. 15 required (1.1 per unit vs. 1.25)
• Only 6 of the 14 required parking spaces would be on-site; the rest would be off-site
• Update on application A03-2026 for 110-112 Third Street West (no details in agenda)

Cochrane and Suburban Planning Board

The Cochrane and Suburban Planning Board will adopt minutes from January and February 2026, consider By-Law 2026-04 to amend By-Law 2025-01, receive a communication from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing regarding a provincial appointee, and appoint a Secretary-Treasurer.

• Adoption of minutes from January 14, 2026 and February 19, 2026 special meeting
• Consideration of By-Law 2026-04 to amend By-Law 2025-01
• Communication from Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing re provincial appointee for Planning Board
• Appointment of Secretary-Treasurer under Section 11(3) of the Planning Act

Cochrane Economic Development Steering Board

The Cochrane Economic Development Steering Board will adopt its agenda and the minutes from the February 27 meeting, and receive the March Economic Development report. The board will discuss a public information session on the Cochrane and Suburban Planning Area Official Plan scheduled for April 13. It also accepted a letter from North Claybelt Community Futures and the draft 2026 workplan for further review.

• Adoption of agenda
• Adoption of February 27 minutes
• Acceptance of North Claybelt letter
• Acceptance of draft 2026 workplan
• Public information session on Official Plan (April 13, Commando Pavilion)

Special Council - 27 Mar 2026 - CANCELLED

Special Council

The Town of Cochrane is holding a special council meeting to continue discussions regarding the 2026 Operating and Capital Budgets. The agenda includes a closed session to discuss detailed capital budgets.

• Continuation of 2026 Operating and Capital Budget discussions
• In-camera session regarding 2026 Detailed Capital Budgets

Regular Council

Council will receive a presentation from Intelivote Systems Inc. regarding telephone and internet voting options for the 2026 municipal and school board elections. The meeting also includes the adoption of minutes, consent agenda items, and by-laws.

• Presentation on telephone and internet voting for 2026 elections
• Adoption of Special Council and Regular Council minutes from March 2026
• By-law 2026-29 to regulate backflow prevention to the municipal water system
• By-law 2026-31 to enter into an agreement with Indigenous Services Canada for evacuation cost recovery
• Railway Street curve safety improvements and enhanced warning signage

Special Council

The Special Council will consider authorizing the Treasurer to negotiate a loan of $2,458,850 with Desjardins at a five‑year fixed rate of 4.42% and a 20‑year amortization. The loan is needed before a borrowing bylaw is enacted, which will be presented for approval at the regular council meeting on April 14, 2026. Drafts of the 2026 Capital Budget and the 2026 Water & Wastewater Capital Budget will also be reviewed. Part of the meeting will move in‑camera to discuss confidential information related to the detailed capital budget for levy and water & sewer projects.

• Authorize loan agreement with Desjardins for $2,458,850 at 4.42% fixed interest
• Present borrowing bylaw for approval at the April 14, 2026 regular council meeting
• Review 2026 Capital List – third draft (total new budget $8,323,894)
• Review 2026 Water & Wastewater Capital List – second draft ($3,129,227 new items)
• In‑camera session to discuss confidential trade‑secret information on the 2026 Detailed Capital Budget

Cochrane Beautification Committee

The Cochrane Beautification Committee is meeting to discuss several local improvement projects. The agenda includes updates on a welcome sign and cedar trees, as well as planning for a community cleanup day and the Sportsman Show.

• Welcome Sign at Railway Park
• Community Clean Up-Day -CFDC
• Sportsman Show Participation
• Cedar Tree update
• 2026 Goals/Accomplishments

CANCELLED-Special Council

The Special Council meeting scheduled for March 18, 2026, at Town Hall has been cancelled. The agenda included a third draft of the 2026 Capital Budget and a second draft of the 2026 Water & Wastewater Capital List for consideration.

• Cancelled Special Council meeting
• 2026 Capital List - Third Draft
• 2026 Water & Wastewater Capital List - Second Draft
• Town Hall, 171 Fourth Avenue, Cochrane, Ontario

CANCELLED-Special Council

Special Council

The Special Council will receive Report 2026-08 and vote to authorize a $99,545.05 + HST contract with LUA Construction Inc. to turn a storage area into a toddler washroom at the Cochrane Child Care Centre. It will also receive and file the Reserve Schedule for the 2026 Budget. A portion of the meeting will be held in‑camera to discuss a lease negotiation for 1 First Ave and confidential details of the 2026 Detailed Capital Budget.

• Authorize $99,545.05 + HST contract with LUA Construction Inc. for toddler washroom conversion
• Receive and file the Reserve Schedule for the 2026 Budget
• In‑camera discussion of lease agreement negotiations for 1 First Ave
• In‑camera discussion of confidential capital‑budget information
• Adopt agenda and approve minutes (standard procedural items)

CANCELLED-Cochrane and Suburban Planning Board

Committee of Adjustment

The Cochrane Committee of Adjustment will consider a minor variance application to allow a 1,400-square-foot secondary dwelling unit in a detached building on 141 Lake Louise Road. The proposal seeks to exceed the 602-square-foot size limit for such units.

• Minor Variance Application A01-2026 for 141 Lake Louise Road
• Request to exceed 602 sq ft size limit for secondary dwelling unit
• Approval subject to Northeastern Public Health capacity check
• Appointment of a Secretary-Treasurer
• Adoption of January 14, 2026 Committee minutes

Regular Council

The Town of Cochrane is considering the creation of an annual cultural awareness week from June 21 to July 1. Council is also reviewing a new municipal backflow prevention program and a process for selling building lots below market value.

• Proposed 'Blue Heart Cultural Awareness Week' annually from June 21 to July 1
• Implementation of a Municipal Backflow Prevention Program with a $5,000 start-up cost
• Proposed first-come, first-served method for selling building lots under the Growth CIP
• Agreement with M&G Fencing Inc. (By-Law 2026-25)
• Appointment of a Deputy Clerk (By-Law 2026-26)

CANCELLED-Special Council

Special Council - 06 Mar 2026-CANCELLED

Special Council

The council will receive the 2026 Operating Budget variance report, which compares actual spending to the budget for recent years. The report notes a decrease in recreation department revenue and a proposed increase in funding for the infrastructure department’s transportation and road projects, totaling $883,000. Council members will discuss these variances and the infrastructure funding request.

• Review of the 2026 Operating Budget – Variance Operating Report
• Presentation of recreation department revenue decrease
• Infrastructure department request for an additional $883,000 for transportation and road projects
• Comparison of budget vs. actual figures for 2022‑2025 across multiple expense categories
• Adoption of the meeting agenda and related procedural items

Cochrane Economic Development Steering Board

The Cochrane Economic Development Steering Board adopted its agenda and minutes, welcomed a new council representative, and accepted several reports. It received a renewable energy funding update and directed the Economic Development Officer to request $25,000 for public transportation. The board also discussed the 2026 Action Plan covering energy, housing development, and transit, and held a round‑table on product logistics at Your Independent Grocers.

• Resolution to request $25,000 for public transportation
• Discussion of the 2026 Action Plan (energy, housing development, transit)
• Adoption of minutes from the October 31, 2025 meeting
• Round‑table discussion on logistics at Your Independent Grocers
• Acceptance of a verbal funding update report

Special Council - 26 Feb 2026-CANCELLED

Regular Council

The council will vote on a revised detour route using Concession 8‑9 (Glackmeyer Road) for the Highway 579 construction by the Ministry of Transportation. It will also consider a one‑year fixed‑term loan renewal with Desjardins Financial Institution. Four by‑laws will be read and passed, covering a pothole prevention agreement with the Province, a voting‑service contract with Intelivote Systems Inc., council procedural rules, and the loan renewal. An in‑camera session will be held to discuss private personnel matters.

• Approve revised detour route on Highway 579 via Concession 8‑9 (Glackmeyer Road) for the Clute Creek Culvert Replacement project
• Authorize a one‑year fixed‑term loan renewal with Desjardins Financial Institution (Loan No. 5)
• By‑Law 2026‑19: Agreement with His Majesty the King for a pothole prevention and repair program
• By‑Law 2026‑20: Agreement with Intelivote Systems Inc. for telephone and internet voting services for municipal elections
• By‑Law 2026‑23: Authorize the bank loan agreement renewal for Loan No. 5 with Desjardins

Special Council

The council will receive the draft operating taxed‑based 2026 budget, which projects a 6.45% property tax increase and outlines revenue and expenditure changes across departments. A budget‑vs‑actual variance report for 2022‑2026 will also be presented. Letters from the Second Mile Club (sanitary sewer connection) and the Boreal Pulse Healthcare Attraction Team (2026 financial contribution request) will be circulated for information.

• Draft operating taxed‑based 2026 budget (includes 6.45% tax increase)
• Budget vs. Actual Variance Report for 2022‑2026
• Letter from Second Mile Club regarding sanitary sewer connection
• Letter from Boreal Pulse Healthcare Attraction Team requesting 2026 contributions
• Professional fees in budget: $50,000 forensic audit, $50,000 integrity commissioner, $48,840 lobbying services

Special Cochrane and Suburban Planning Board

The Cochrane and Suburban Planning Board is presenting a review and update of the Official Plan under Section 26 of the Planning Act. The agenda includes a refresher on Ontario’s planning framework, the scope and schedule of the review, and ways residents can participate. No decisions are being made at this meeting; it is informational and preparatory.

• Presentation on Official Plan review by J.L. Richards (Special Meeting Presentation)
• Project schedule phases: Phase 1 (Sept 2025‑Feb 2026), Phase 2 (Feb‑May 2026), Phase 3 (May‑Jun 2026), Phase 4 (Jun‑Oct 2026), Phase 5 (Oct 2026‑Mar 2027)
• Discussion of public engagement tools: online surveys, information sessions, open houses, written comments
• Reference to Section 26(1.1) of the Planning Act requiring review 10 years after adoption (original plan adopted Sep 10 2013)
• Announcement of upcoming public and stakeholder engagement activities

Cochrane Beautification Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss the 2026 budget update and the purchase of community trees. The agenda also includes discussions regarding train rehabilitation, a summer student, and a presentation from the Lion's Club.

• Budget 2026 Update
• Community Tree Purchase
• Train Rehabilitation
• Summer Student
• Lion's Club Presentation

Special Council

The Special Council will receive a presentation from J.L. Richards about the review and update of the Official Plan for the Cochrane and Suburban Planning Area. The presentation outlines the planning framework, the scope of the review, and a project schedule that runs from September 2025 to March 2027. It also explains how residents can participate through surveys, information sessions and open houses. The item is for information only and does not include a decision or vote.

• Agenda Item 11.1 – Presentation on Official Plan Review (information only)
• Review required under Section 26 of the Planning Act; first update 10 years after the 2013 adoption
• Project schedule phases: Sep 2025‑Feb 2026 (initiation), Feb‑May 2026 (background studies), May‑Jun 2026 (public engagement), Jun‑Oct 2026 (draft plan), Oct 2026‑Mar 2027 (finalization and adoption)
• Public involvement tools: online survey, web updates, social media, information session, open house, written comments
• No contracts, dollar amounts, or rezoning proposals listed in the agenda

Special Council

The Special Council will hear the Manager of Infrastructure's presentation of the 2026 public works operating budget, including equipment repair needs, surface dust‑suppression, and winter‑control costs. Council must decide whether to adopt a formal Level of Service that exceeds the Minimum Maintenance Standards, which will determine future budget allocations. The meeting also includes routine items such as agenda approval and disclosures.

• Decision required on adopting a Level of Service beyond the Minimum Maintenance Standards for public works
• Equipment repairs budget request for aging fleet (graders, loaders, snow plow) with extensive component replacements
• Surface dust‑suppression budget increased by 27% for 2026
• Winter‑control supplies budget includes $55,522 for salt and $53,800 for sand (2025 figures)
• Winter‑control snow‑collection contracts: $89,609 (Jan‑Apr 2025) and $74,564 (Oct‑Dec 2025)

OPP Detachment Board-James Bay East

The OPP Detachment Board‑James Bay East approved By‑Law 2026‑01, formally adopting the 2026 board budget. It also approved an insurance renewal with Intact Public Entities Inc. for $3,443.00 (excluding PST). The board directed the Secretary/Treasurer to complete a letter of support for the provincial bail notification program and received eticket overview reports for Cochrane, Smooth Rock Falls and Moosonee. Additionally, the board set the 2026 meeting dates and locations.

• Adoption of By‑Law 2026‑01 to adopt the 2026 board budget
• Insurance renewal for 2025‑2026 with Intact Public Entities Inc. for $3,443.00 (excl. PST)
• Directive to prepare a letter of support for the Provincial Bail Notification Program
• Receipt of eticket overview reports for Cochrane, Smooth Rock Falls and Moosonee (Dec 1 2025 – Feb 10 2026)
• Adoption of 2026 board meeting schedule (Feb 18, Jun 3, Sep 16, Nov 4, Apr 15) at 171 Fourth Avenue

Special Council

The Special Council will adopt the agenda, handle standard procedural matters, and consider the 2026 Draft Capital Budget. The budget document spans multiple pages and will be discussed by council members. No specific projects or dollar figures are listed in the agenda.

• 2026 Draft Capital Budget – review and discussion

CANCELLED-Committee of Adjustment

CANCELLED-Cochrane and Suburban Planning Board

Regular Council

Council is discussing a phased rate increase strategy for water and wastewater services from 2026 to 2031. The meeting also includes decisions on election services contracts and several new municipal by-laws.

• Proposed water/wastewater rate increases: 10% in 2026, 5% annually 2027-2030, and 10% in 2031
• Contract award to Intelivote Systems Inc. for 2026 municipal and school board election voting services
• Draft Procedural By-law submitted by the Policy Review Committee
• Agreements with Villeneuve Engineering Services and CIMA Canada Inc.
• By-laws for municipal recount policy, election signs, and a Council Code of Conduct

Cochrane Economic Development Steering Board

The board is meeting to review the 2026 Budget and the 2026 Action Plan. The session includes a monthly report from the Social and Economic Development Manager and a verbal funding update.

• Budget 2026
• Action Plan 2026
• January Social and Economic Development Manager Monthly Report
• Funding Update (Verbal)

Regular Council

The Town Council will consider the adoption of the 2024 audited financial statements and the 2021-2023 Economic Development Corporation statements. The body is also deciding on the expansion of child care services and the appointment of Councillor Heather Decevito to municipal boards.

• Proposal to increase Cochrane Child Care Centre capacity by 10 toddler spaces
• Adoption of 2024 Audited Financial Statements presented by KPMG
• Adoption of Economic Development Corporation statements for 2021, 2022, and 2023
• Review of Draft Official Plan Amendment 2024-01 recommendations
• First reading of Confirmatory By-Law 2026-09

Cochrane and Suburban Planning Board

The Cochrane and Suburban Planning Board will consider Consent Application B2025-14 from Y. Vezeau for Part Lot 8, Concession 6, Leitch, and Consent Application B2025-15 from R. Castonguay for Part Lot 11, Concession 1, Glackmeyer. The board will also review three by‑laws (2026‑01, 2026‑02, 2026‑03) to enter agreements with the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. Additionally, appointments for a Chair and Vice‑Chair of the board will be made.

• Consent Application B2025-14 – severance of 1.16 ha lot in Leitch; conditions include payment of taxes, survey, sewage approval, and minor variance A06‑2025
• Consent Application B2025-15 – severance request for land in Glackmeyer (details not specified in agenda)
• By‑Law 2026‑01 – agreement with His Majesty the King in Right of Ontario, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing
• By‑Law 2026‑02 – second agreement with the same provincial authority
• By‑Law 2026‑03 – confirmatory by‑law for the above agreements

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment will review Minor Variance Application A06-2025 submitted by T. Calaiezzi for Part Lot 8, Concession 6, Leitch Township. The variance seeks to recognize a deficient lot area and frontage to permit a specialized agricultural operation and is tied to Consent Application B2025-14 that would create a new lot of about 1.16 hectares on Silver Queen Lake Road. Staff recommend approval, noting the proposal meets the four tests of the Planning Act and complies with the Official Plan and Zoning By‑law. The committee will decide whether to approve the variance.

• Minor Variance Application A06-2025 – request to reduce lot area and frontage for a specialized agricultural operation
• Consent Application B2025-14 – proposes creation of a new 1.16‑hectare lot on Silver Queen Lake Road
• Staff recommendation to approve the minor variance
• Condition that the applicant obtain approval from the Northeastern Public Health Unit for septic suitability
• Assessment that the proposal complies with the Rural Area designation in the Official Plan and Zoning By‑law 968‑2013

Regular Council

The Town of Cochrane Council will read and pass a series of by-laws covering road allowance disposal, a new interim tax levy, and other municipal matters. It will also approve a $5,000 contribution to the Northern Corridor Chamber for the 2026 Business and Tourist Guide, and authorize additional design costs for the 5th Street Reconstruction project. Further decisions include leasing a new water and sewer emergency response vehicle and other policy updates.

• By‑Law 2026‑02: authorize stop‑up, closure, surplus declaration and sale of road allowance along Dora Lake shore and part of Block B on M386C
• By‑Law 2026‑08: provide for an interim tax levy and payment of interim taxes for 2026
• Approve $5,000 contribution to Northern Corridor Chamber for the 2026 Business and Tourist Guide
• Approve design scope changes for 5th Street Reconstruction, adding $164,028 plus HST
• Lease new Water & Sewer Emergency Response Vehicle (VN‑98) via Enterprise Fleet Management, funded from the operating budget