Owen Sound public meetings in 2025
86 substantive meetings from 2025, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Committee - Operations
The Operations Committee will discuss several staff reports, including traffic by‑law amendment proposals with a subdivision agreement and a parking plan for 18th St E. It will also consider minor timing changes for Owen Sound Transit and amendments to the flat‑rate water charge and related fees. A deputation on pedestrian‑infrastructure opportunities will be heard, and the minutes from the November 20 meeting will be confirmed.
- Traffic By‑law Amendments – report OP-25-041 with subdivision agreement and proposed parking on 18th St E (Bayshore)
- Minor changes to timing for Owen Sound Transit – report OP-25-044
- Flat Rate Water Charge and water‑related fee amendments – report OP-25-043
- Deputation from Jake Bousfield‑Bastedo on pedestrian‑infrastructure opportunities
- Confirmation of minutes from the Operations Committee meeting held on November 20, 2025
Committee - Community Services
The Owen Sound Community Services Committee will hear a report on a working group recommendation for renaming Ryerson Park. Other items include a request for a commemorative tree, a sports equipment sanitizer vending opportunity, concession options at the Julie McArthur Regional Recreation Centre, and a proposal for a turf floor partnership at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre. The committee will also receive an update on the Tourism Development Fund and year-end events.
- Report CM-25-037 on Ryerson Park Renaming Working Group recommendation
- Request for a commemorative tree at the Julie McArthur Regional Recreation Centre
- Report CS-25-119 on sports equipment sanitizer vending opportunity
- Report CS-25-125 on options regarding concession at the Julie McArthur Regional Recreation Centre
- Report CS-25-126 on proposal for a turf floor partnership at Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre
Council Meeting - Special
This special meeting includes a staff report (CS-25-123) on proposed changes to the Conservation Authorities Act and a continuation of the November 24 working session on Official Plan Amendment No. 14 and Zoning By-law Amendment No. 57. Council will also consider a by-law (No. 2025-130) to confirm the meeting's proceedings.
- Report CS-25-123 from the Senior Planner on proposed changes to the Conservation Authorities Act
- Continuation of Council Working Session on Official Plan Amendment (OPA) No. 14 and Zoning By-law Amendment (ZBA) No. 57
- Presentation on Official Plan Review and Zoning By-law Review by MHBC Planning
- By-law No. 2025-130 to confirm proceedings of the special meeting
Council Meeting - Regular
Owen Sound City Council will consider the 2026 Operating Budget, approve the 2026 Interim Tax Levy By-law, and authorize various lease and service agreements for city properties. The meeting will also include a review of committee structures and a presentation on the Mayor's year-end update.
- 2026 Operating Budget (Mayor's Directions)
- 2026 Interim Tax Levy By-law
- Lease of Rice House (846-848 1st Avenue West)
- Pedestrian Bridge lease with Transport Canada at Kelso Beach
- Committee Structure Review options
Committee - Tom Thomson Art Gallery Advisory
The Tom Thomson Art Gallery Advisory Committee will receive updates on fall programming and fundraising initiatives. The committee will also review a December update report from the Director and Chief Curator.
- Presentation on Fall Highlights and Upcoming Programs from the Director and Chief Curator
- Presentation on fundraising events and campaigns by Fundraising Coordinator Emily Colman
- Report AG-25-007: December Update from the Director and Chief Curator
- Update report from the Fundraising Team
The Tom Thomson Art Gallery Advisory Committee could not reach a quorum, so Vice Chair Peter Tovell adjourned the meeting at 2:15 p.m. No agenda items were discussed or decided.
Board - River District
The River District Board will review a draft 2026 budget proposing a 3.25 percent increase. The meeting includes a public forum and presentations on the budget, a year-end audit, and a plan to update the district's action plan.
- 2026 Budget Public Meeting and Review
- 2024 Year-End Audit Presentation
- Update to River District Action Plan
- 2025 Block Captain Reorganization
- River District Public Washroom Assessment
The River District Board directed the Treasurer to move $7,562 from the legacy gift‑certificate account to the operating account and to close that account. It also approved the 2024 audited financial statements. The Board supported the proposed approach and methodology for updating the River District Action Plan and ordered an updated Block Captain map to be posted online. A police update was received for information purposes.
- Transfer $7,562 from gift‑certificate account to operating account (Carried)
- Close the gift‑certificate account (Carried)
- Approve 2024 financial statements as presented (Carried)
- Approve minutes of September 10, 2025 meeting (Carried)
- Support moving forward with Action Plan approach and methodology (Carried)
- Direct staff to update and post Block Captain map on website (Carried)
- Receive police verbal report for information (Carried)
Council Meeting - Special
This special meeting includes a public hearing for Official Plan Amendment No. 14 (Official Plan update) and a council working session on OPA No. 14 and Zoning By-law Amendment No. 57, led by MHBC Planning. Council will receive public comments and discuss key updates to both documents. A by-law to confirm the meeting's proceedings will also be considered.
- Public hearing for Official Plan Amendment (OPA) No. 14 – Official Plan Update under Section 26 of the Planning Act
- Council working session on OPA No. 14 and Zoning By-law Amendment (ZBA) No. 57, presented by MHBC Planning
- Presentation and review of key updates to the Official Plan and Zoning By-law
- By-law No. 2025-126 to confirm proceedings of the special meeting
- Public comments received via attachments: OPA No. 14 Agency and Public Comments.pdf
The council moved into a Committee of the Whole and held a public meeting on Official Plan Amendment No. 14. In the working session, it directed staff to prepare a report offering three options for the retail market study requirements in the East City Commercial area and a separate report on building height limits in the Official Plan. The council also passed By‑law No. 2025‑126 confirming the special meeting proceedings.
- Moved Council into Committee of the Whole (Carried)
- Directed staff to bring forward a report with three options for retail market study requirements in the East City Commercial designation (Carried)
- Directed staff to bring forward a report on building height limits within the Official Plan in all designations (Carried)
- Adopted By‑law No. 2025‑126 confirming the proceedings of the Special Meeting (Carried)
- Motion to adopt proceedings in Committee of the Whole confirmed (Carried)
- Motion for Committee of the Whole to rise and report (Carried)
Council Meeting - Regular
Council will hold a public meeting for Official Plan Amendment No. 14 and Zoning By-law Amendment No. 57, a comprehensive update to the city's planning documents. Staff will also present a noise permit request for the Harbour West development at 1144 1st Avenue West, and a motion to name the Volunteer of the Year award after Jan Chamberlain will be considered. Several by-laws are up for approval, including a loan agreement for the 1921 clock tower and a transfer payment for arena upgrades.
- Public meeting on Official Plan Amendment No. 14 and Zoning By-law Amendment No. 57 (city-wide planning update)
- Noise permit request for Harbour West development (former BCK site) at 1144 1st Avenue West
- Motion to name the Owen Sound Volunteer of the Year Award after Jan Chamberlain
- By-law 2025-128: Loan agreement with Grey Roots Museum & Archives for the 1921 clock tower
- By-law 2025-129: Transfer payment agreement with Ontario for upgrades to J.D. McArthur Arena at Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre
The council adopted the minutes of three previous meetings and moved into Committee of the Whole. It approved a six‑month noise permit for concrete pours at 1144 1st Avenue West, subject to notice and no‑pour conditions. The council received a verbal report from Deputy Mayor Greig on Grey County matters for information. Consent agenda items, including business licences and a lottery licence, were also approved.
- Adopted minutes of Oct 6, Oct 27, and Nov 10 council meetings (Carried)
- Moved council into Committee of the Whole (Carried)
- Approved six‑month noise permit for Harbour West development at 1144 1st Avenue West, with notice and no‑pour conditions (Carried)
- Received verbal report from Deputy Mayor Greig on Grey County Council matters (Carried)
- Approved consent agenda items: Community Open House report, lottery licence for Sydenham Sportsmen's Association, and business licences for Mind Revitalized, Crowns and Fades, and The Artisans Holiday Show & Sale (Carried)
- Approved minutes and recommendations of the Corporate Services Committee meeting (Nov 6, 2025) (Carried)
- Approved minutes of the Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc Committee meeting (Nov 12, 2025) (Carried)
Committee - Operations
The Operations Committee will consider a staff report (OP-25-040) on the collection of non-eligible sources after the Blue Box transition deadline of December 31, 2025. A deputation regarding Harbour House Condominiums driveway access will be heard. Correspondence from the Town of Blue Mountains on changes to Blue Box recycling is also on the agenda.
- Staff report OP-25-040 on collection of non-eligible sources post Blue Box transition follow-up
- Deputation from Barb Wakeford re: Harbour House Condominiums driveway access
- City Manager correspondence re: Town of Blue Mountains - changes to Blue Box recycling for non-eligible sources
- Confirmation of minutes from October 16, 2025 Operations Committee meeting
The Operations Committee approved the minutes from the October 16 meeting. It adopted several motions, including selecting Option 2.b to collect non‑eligible materials for up to three months and directing staff to include it in the 2026 mayor’s budget. The committee also waived a notice requirement to discuss a Blue Box issue, supported the Town of Blue Mountains resolution and directed staff to forward it to Grey County, and recommended sending a letter urging the province to reinstate curbside blue‑box eligibility for charitable organizations. All motions were carried.
- Approved October 16, 2025 minutes (carried)
- Recommended City Council select Option 2.b for non‑eligible material collection and include it in the 2026 budget (carried)
- Waived notice of motion requirement to discuss Town of Blue Mountains blue‑box issue (carried)
- Recommended City Council support Town of Blue Mountains resolution and forward it to Grey County (carried)
- Recommended City Council direct staff to send a letter urging the province to restore blue‑box eligibility for charities (carried)
Committee - Community Services
The Community Services Committee will consider deputations on installing artificial turf at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre and on tree‑planting opportunities. It will discuss a Hall Rental Fee Increase request from the Bluewater Quilters' Guild. Staff reports will be presented on Bill 60 (Fighting Delays, Building Faster Act) updates, the first year of Derby Camping, and the design and location of the Commemorative Forest Monument. Site plan approvals for 2010 16th Ave E and 1650 20th St E will also be reviewed.
- Deputation on artificial turf installation at Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre
- Deputation on tree‑planting opportunities presented by Tasha Schmidt
- Discussion of Hall Rental Fee Increase request from Bluewater Quilters' Guild
- Report on Bill 60, Fighting Delays, Building Faster Act (2025 update)
- Site plan approvals: DA-25-018 for 2010 16th Ave E and DA-25-019 for 1650 20th St E
The Community Services Committee approved the minutes from the October 15 meeting. It recommended that the City include the cost of an artificial lacrosse turf at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre in the December 2025 capital budget. The Committee also advised a review of the boulevard tree‑planting program in the 2026 staff workplan and approved the location and design of a new commemorative forest monument. Several items were forwarded to Council for information or further action.
- Approved minutes of the October 15, 2025 meeting (Carried)
- Recommended City Council include lacrosse turf costs in the December 2025 capital budget update (Carried)
- Recommended City Council review the boulevard tree‑planting program in 2026 staff workplans (Carried)
- Recommended City Council receive Bluewater Quilters’ Guild hall rental fee increase item for information (Carried)
- Recommended City Council send Bill 60 comments to the Province, MPP, AMO and party leaders (Carried)
- Recommended City Council send a letter on staff time costs to MPP Paul Vickers (Carried)
- Recommended City Council bring forward a by‑law to implement Derby Camping improvements (Carried)
- Approved location and design of the Commemorative Forest Monument at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre (Carried)
Committee - Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc
The Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc Committee is meeting to discuss the financial and operational impacts of the city's service review. The body will also review reports on a project management system and park service levels for the River District.
- Report CM-25-036: Financial and Operational Impacts of Service Review
- Report CS-25-116: Draft River District Service Level for parks
- Report CM-25-018: Organizational Project Management System (Project 5a1)
The Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc Committee approved the minutes from its September 10, 2025 meeting. It recommended that City Council receive three staff reports—for the Organizational Project Management System, the River District Parks Service Levels draft, and the Optimizing Resources financial impact study—for information purposes. All motions were carried. No other business was conducted.
- Approved minutes of the September 10, 2025 meeting (carried)
- Recommended City Council receive Staff Report CM-25-018 (Organizational Project Management System) for information (carried)
- Recommended City Council receive Staff Report CS-25-116 (Parks Service Levels – Draft River District) for information (carried)
- Recommended City Council receive Staff Report CM-25-036 (Optimizing Resources: Financial and Operational Impacts) for information (carried)
Council Meeting - Regular
Owen Sound City Council meets to consider a consent agenda including an extension request for the Telfer Creek draft plan of subdivision, a temporary loan of artifacts to Grey Roots Museum, and adoption of several by-laws. Key by-laws include the 2025 Asset Management Plan, an Asset Management Policy, an Electronic Signature Policy, and an encroachment agreement for a bus shelter at 1183 16th Street East. The council will also hear a deputation from the YMCA on its annual report and move into closed session for personal matters and legal advice regarding land on 28th Avenue East.
- Deputation from YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce presenting annual report
- Extension request for Draft Plan of Subdivision Telfer Creek (42T-19501)
- Adoption of By-law 2025-122: comprehensive 2025 Asset Management Plan
- Adoption of By-law 2025-125: encroachment agreement with Skyline Retail Real Estate Holdings Inc. for bus shelter at 1183 16th Street East
- Closed session to discuss personal matters and solicitor-client privilege regarding land on 28th Avenue East
The council approved the comprehensive 2025 Asset Management Plan and its supporting policy. It also approved several consent‑agenda items, including a subdivision extension request, a temporary artifact loan, business licences and short‑term rental licences. The meeting then moved into a closed session to consider a confidential land matter.
- Adopted minutes of the Oct 27 special and regular council meetings (Carried)
- Moved Council into Committee of the Whole to consider agenda items (Carried)
- Approved Extension Request for Draft Plan of Subdivision – Telfer Creek 42T‑19501 (Carried)
- Approved Temporary Loan of artifacts to Grey Roots Museum & Archives (Carried)
- Approved business licences for several local businesses (Carried)
- Approved short‑term rental licences for five locations (Carried)
- Adopted By‑law No. 2025‑122 to adopt the comprehensive 2025 Asset Management Plan (Carried)
- Moved into Closed Session to review a confidential land matter (Carried)
Committee - Corporate Services
The Corporate Services Committee will hear a deputation from MNP on the 2024 draft audited financial statements and consider staff report CR-25-134 from the Deputy Treasurer. The meeting includes confirmation of previous minutes and other routine business.
- Deputation by Robyn Strangway of MNP re: 2024 Draft Audited Financial Statements
- Report CR-25-134 from the Deputy Treasurer on the 2024 Draft Audited Financial Statements
- Confirmation of minutes from October 9, 2025
The Corporate Services Committee approved the minutes from the October 9, 2025 meeting. A presentation on the 2024 draft audited financial statements was given, noting a clean audit opinion and deferred NG911 revenue. The committee recommended that City Council approve the 2024 audited financial statements as presented. No other business was conducted.
- Approved minutes of the October 9, 2025 Corporate Services Committee meeting (carried)
- Recommended City Council approve the 2024 audited financial statements (carried)
Committee - Committee of Adjustment
The Committee of Adjustment will review two applications: a consent sketch for 1750 16th Avenue East and a site plan for 890 20th Street East. The public may provide written comments by noon on the meeting date.
- Review of application B13-2025 for 1750 16th Avenue East
- Review of application B14-2025 for 890 20th Street East
- Confirmation of minutes from September 29, 2025
- Public hearing for Committee of Adjustment decisions
- Written comments deadline at 12:00 p.m.
The Committee of Adjustment approved Consent Application B13-2025 for 1750 16th Avenue East and Consent Application B14-2025 for 890 20th Street East, each subject to the conditions in Schedule E of the respective staff reports. Both motions were moved and carried without recorded opposition. The meeting also approved the minutes from the September 29, 2025 session.
- Approved September 29, 2025 minutes (Carried)
- Approved Consent Application B13-2025 for 1750 16th Avenue East, subject to Schedule E (Carried)
- Approved Consent Application B14-2025 for 890 20th Street East, subject to Schedule E (Carried)
Council Meeting - Regular
Council will hear a report on River District public washroom infrastructure and operations. Members will consider approving the 2025 Asset Management Plan and establishing a Firehall Renovation and Expansion Ad Hoc Committee. Several by-laws are up for adoption, including agreements for court security funding, Festival of Northern Lights support (2025-2029), and shared building services with Meaford.
- Report CM-25-033 on River District Public Washroom Infrastructure and Operational Assessment
- Report CR-25-131: 2025 Asset Management Plan and Strategic Asset Management Policy Approval
- Report CR-25-132: Establishment of a Firehall Renovation and Expansion Ad Hoc Committee
- Report CS-25-112: Shared Building Services Agreement with the Municipality of Meaford
- By-law 2025-119: Agreement with Festival of Northern Lights Inc. for city support (2025-2029)
The council directed staff to add Option 1 of the River District public washroom assessment to the 2025 capital plan and allocated $75,000 from the Capital Reserve. It also approved the 2025 Asset Management Plan and ordered a by‑law for the updated Strategic Asset Management Policy. Additional actions included adopting several minutes, approving consent‑agenda items, and setting reporting requirements for the firehall renovation project.
- Adopted minutes of Sep 8 closed session and Oct 6 regular council (carried)
- Moved council into Committee of the Whole (carried)
- Approved River District public washroom renovation (Option 1) and allocated $75,000 capital funding (carried)
- Approved 2025 Asset Management Plan and directed staff to bring forward a by‑law for the Strategic Asset Management Policy (carried)
- Directed staff to provide quarterly then bi‑monthly updates on firehall renovation and expansion (carried)
- Approved consent agenda items: shared building services agreement, encroachment agreement, business licences and flag‑flying requests (carried)
- Approved minutes and recommendations of Tom Thomson Art Gallery Advisory, Corporate Services, Operations, and Community Services committees (carried)
- Rose Committee of the Whole and reported (carried)
Council Meeting - Special
This special meeting of Owen Sound City Council will receive a verbal budget update from the Police Service Board Chair, then move into closed session to discuss security of municipal property related to police services and confidential third-party information regarding dispatch services. The meeting will conclude with a by-law to confirm the proceedings.
- Verbal Report from Owen Sound Police Service Board Chair re: Budget Update
- Closed session to discuss security of municipal property regarding challenges and demands on Police Services
- Closed session to discuss third-party information supplied in confidence regarding dispatch services
- By-law No. 2025-116 to confirm the proceedings of this special meeting
The council moved into Committee of the Whole, received a verbal report on the police service budget for information, and then entered Closed Session to discuss security and confidential dispatch matters. After returning to open session, the council approved the Committee of the Whole proceedings and adopted By-law No. 2025‑116 to confirm the special meeting actions. No further direction was given on the security issue discussed in Closed Session.
- Motion S-251027-001 to move Council into Committee of the Whole – carried
- Motion S-251027-002 to receive OSPS budget update verbal report for information – carried
- Motion S-251027-003 to move into Closed Session on security and confidential dispatch matters – carried
- Motion S-251027-004 for Committee of the Whole to rise and report – carried
- Motion S-251027-005 to adopt Committee of the Whole proceedings – carried
- By-law No. 2025‑116 to confirm the special meeting proceedings – passed
Committee - Operations
The Operations Committee will consider a staff report on transitioning collection of non-eligible recycling sources after the provincial Blue Box program shift. A deputation from resident Joan Harris requests discussion of a transit route to Harrison Park. No other substantive reports are on the agenda.
- Deputation from Joan Harris re: Transit Route to Harrison Park
- Report OP-25-037 on collection of non-eligible sources after Blue Box transition
- Correspondence from Circular Materials and the Minister on non-eligible recycling post-Dec 31, 2025
- Confirmation of minutes from September 18, 2025 meeting
The committee approved the minutes from the September 18, 2025 Operations Committee meeting. It also passed a motion recommending that City Council ask staff to prepare an additional report on the cost and funding options for collecting waste from non‑eligible sources after the Blue Box transition, to be presented at the November 20, 2025 meeting. No other actions were taken.
- Approved minutes of September 18, 2025 Operations Committee meeting (motion carried)
- Recommended City Council direct staff to prepare additional waste‑collection cost report for November 20, 2025 meeting (motion carried)
Committee - Community Services
The Community Services Committee will review a report on the wrap-up of summer recreation programs and a plan for external relations and investment attraction. The committee will also receive an update on Ontario's Bill 5.
- Review of Summer Recreation Programs 2025 Wrap-Up
- External Relations and Investment Attraction Plan 2025-2027
- Update on Bill 5 Protect Ontario by Unleashing our Economy Act
- Site Plan Approval for 1750 16th Ave E (Hotel)
- Development Update for September 2025
The Community Services Committee approved its September 17 minutes and recommended that City Council receive the Summer Recreation Programs 2025 wrap‑up report for information. It also recommended that Council approve the External Relations and Investment Attraction Action Plan for 2025‑2027 and receive the Bill 5 Protect Ontario by Unleashing our Economy Act update for information, directing staff to send formal notices to several provincial ministers. Finally, the Committee recommended that Council receive three informational items (community‑open‑house notice, development update, and a site‑plan for a hotel) and announced a community open house on October 20.
- Approved September 17 minutes (Carried)
- Recommended City Council receive Summer Recreation Programs 2025 wrap‑up report for information (Carried)
- Recommended City Council approve External Relations and Investment Attraction Action Plan 2025‑2027 (Carried)
- Recommended City Council receive Bill 5 Act update for information and direct staff to send notices to provincial ministers (Carried)
- Recommended City Council receive items 11.a‑c for information purposes (Carried)
- Announced Community Open House on October 20 at Bayshore Community Centre
Committee - Corporate Services
The Corporate Services Committee will discuss several staff reports including the 2025 T2 financial update, a proposed electronic signature policy, and a report on joining the Canadian Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities. Also on the agenda are a pay and compensation update, human resources metrics, and a safety assessment of Council Chambers. No deputations or correspondence requiring direction.
- 2025 T2 Financial Update (Report CR-25-126)
- Electronic Signature Policy (AF011)
- Joining the Canadian Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities
- Pay and Compensation Update (Report CR-25-046)
- Update on Safety in Council Chambers with Risk Assessment
The Corporate Services Committee approved the September 11 minutes and recommended that City Council receive several staff reports for information, including the External Communications Strategy and the 2025 T2 Financial Update. It endorsed a resolution for the city to join the Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities. The committee also directed staff to bring forward a by‑law to adopt the Electronic Signatures Policy (AF011) and to remove $1,300 for a proposed bollard system from the budget.
- Approved minutes of the September 11, 2025 meeting (Carried)
- Recommended City Council receive External Communications Strategy report for information (Carried)
- Recommended City Council direct staff to bring forward a by‑law to adopt Electronic Signatures Policy AF011 (Carried)
- Recommended City Council receive 2025 T2 Financial Update report for information (Carried)
- Recommended City Council endorse resolution to join the Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities (Carried)
- Recommended City Council receive Pay and Compensation Compliance report for information (Carried)
- Recommended City Council receive Human Resources Metrics report for information (Carried)
- Directed staff to remove $1,300 for the bollard system from the budget (Carried)
Council Meeting - Regular
Owen Sound City Council will receive a presentation on the Future Owen Sound: Vision 2050 Long-Term Strategic Plan and a report on fostering a vibrant River District. The body will also consider several agreements regarding transit stops, court security, and development charges.
- Presentation on Future Owen Sound: Vision 2050 Long-Term Strategic Plan
- Report CM-25-032 regarding Fostering a Vibrant River District
- Agreement with County of Grey for court security (Report CS-25-103)
- Non-standard procurement for playground equipment at Owen Heights and Comme-R-ette Park
- By-law for Development Charges Deferral Agreement at 297 18th Street East
The council approved the minutes and recommendations of the Strategic Planning Ad Hoc Committee, adopting the Future Owen Sound: Vision 2050 draft. Four proposed amendments to that resolution were defeated. Council directed staff to add $50,000 to the 2026 Capital Plan for a River District Revitalization Plan and to draft a by‑law authorizing a court‑security agreement with Grey County. The consent agenda items, including two staff reports, were also approved.
- Adopted minutes of the September 22, 2025 council meeting (R-251006-001) – Carried
- Moved Council into Committee of the Whole (R-251006-002) – Carried
- Approved minutes and recommendations of the Strategic Planning Ad Hoc Committee (R-251006-003) – Carried
- Defeated amendment R-251006-004 – Defeated
- Defeated amendment R-251006-005 – Defeated
- Defeated amendment R-251006-006 – Defeated
- Defeated amendment R-251006-007 – Defeated
- Defeated amendment R-251006-008 – Defeated
Committee - Committee of Adjustment
The Owen Sound Committee of Adjustment meets on September 29, 2025 at City Hall to consider several minor variance applications. Items include applications for 915 11th Avenue East, 890 20th Street East, 28th Avenue East, 1170 3rd Avenue East, and 1750 16th Avenue East. The agenda also includes standard procedural items such as call to order, minutes confirmation, and announcements.
- Minor variance Application A12-2025 for 915 11th Avenue East
- Minor variance Application A14-2025 for 890 20th Street East
- Minor variance Application A15-2025 for 28th Avenue East
- Minor variance Application A16-2025 for 1170 3rd Avenue East
- Application B13-2025 for 1750 16th Avenue East (no attachments listed)
The Committee of Adjustment approved minor variances for the properties at 915 11th Avenue East (A12-2025), 890 20th Street East (A14-2025), the site on 28th Avenue East (A15-2025), and 1170 3rd Avenue East (A16-2025). Two applications (B13-2025 and B14-2025) were postponed to the October 28 meeting because of notice‑period issues. The minutes from the July 22 meeting were also approved.
- Approved minor variance A12-2025 for 915 11th Avenue East (Carried)
- Approved minor variance A14-2025 for 890 20th Street East (Carried)
- Approved minor variance A15-2025 for 28th Avenue East (Carried)
- Approved minor variance A16-2025 for 1170 3rd Avenue East (Carried)
- Postponed application B13-2025 to Oct 28, 2025 (notice period issue)
- Postponed application B14-2025 to Oct 28, 2025 (notice period issue)
- Approved minutes of July 22, 2025 meeting (Carried)
Committee - Tom Thomson Art Gallery Advisory
The Tom Thomson Art Gallery Advisory Committee will receive presentations on summer highlights and upcoming programs from the director and chief curator, and on fundraising initiatives from the fundraising coordinator. A staff report (AG-25-006) with a year-to-date revenue summary will be presented. Working groups on fundraising, art collection, and expansion planning will provide updates. No decisions or public hearings are scheduled; the meeting is primarily informational.
- Presentation from Director and Chief Curator Aidan Ware re: Summer Highlights and Upcoming Programs
- Presentation from Fundraising Coordinator Emily Colman re: Fundraising Initiatives: Events, Campaigns, and Donor Relations
- Staff Report AG-25-006 from Director and Chief Curator re: September Update with YTD August 31 2025 Gallery Revenues attachment
- Update report from the Fundraising Team
- No update from Art Collection Team or Expansion Planning Team
The advisory committee approved the minutes from its May 7, 2025 meeting. It then recommended that City Council receive the September Update Report (Staff Report AG-25-006) for information purposes. The committee also recommended that City Council receive the Fundraising Team Update Report for information purposes. No other substantive actions were taken.
- Approved minutes of May 7, 2025 meeting (carried)
- Recommended City Council receive September Update Report for information (carried)
- Recommended City Council receive Fundraising Team Update Report for information (carried)
Committee - Strategic Planning Ad Hoc
The Strategic Planning Ad Hoc Committee is reviewing the final draft of 'Future Owen Sound - Vision 2050', a long-term strategic plan that sets a vision for the city to 2050. The meeting includes confirmation of minutes from June 18, 2025. No deputations, public forum items, or correspondence requiring direction are scheduled.
- Report CM-25-029 from the Senior Manager of Strategic Initiatives and Operational Effectiveness regarding Review of Final Draft - Future Owen Sound - Vision 2050 Long-Term Strategic Plan
The Strategic Planning Ad Hoc Committee approved the minutes from its June 18, 2025 meeting. It also passed a motion recommending that City Council approve the final draft of the Future Owen Sound: Vision 2050 Long‑Term Strategic Plan, including comments received at this meeting.
- Approved minutes of June 18, 2025 meeting (motion carried)
- Recommended City Council approve Vision 2050 plan (motion carried)
Council Meeting - Regular
Owen Sound City Council will meet to confirm minutes, approve emergency repairs for the water treatment plant, and review a draft calendar for 2026 council meetings. The agenda includes a presentation on a hydrogen peaking plant and a deputation regarding public event rights.
- Emergency purchase for water treatment plant repairs
- 2026 Council and Committee Meeting Calendar
- Deputation on circulating petitions and Charter rights
- Business license approvals for local businesses
- Report on municipal support for proposed Hydrogen Peaking Plant
The council endorsed the resolution supporting the proposed municipal hydrogen peaker plant. It also approved $180,000 from the anticipated 2025 operating surplus to remove approximately 288 high‑hazard trees in the fall. Staff were directed to prepare a report on public washroom options for the River District and to draft a by‑law amendment to the Election Sign By‑law. The 2026 council and committee meeting calendar was approved along with shortened budget amendment and mayor‑veto periods.
- Adopted minutes of July 21 special council and September 8 regular council meetings (Carried)
- Moved council into Committee of the Whole to consider various items (Carried)
- Endorsed resolution attached to Staff Report CM-25-031 for municipal support of proposed hydrogen peaker plant (Carried)
- Authorized $180,000 to remove very high and high hazard trees (≈288 trees) in fall 2025 (Carried)
- Directed staff to bring forward a report on River District public washroom options by Oct 27, 2025 (Carried)
- Directed staff to draft a by‑law amendment to the Election Sign By‑law (Carried)
- Approved 2026 council and committee meeting calendar and shortened budget amendment and mayor‑veto periods (Carried)
- Approved business licences for several local businesses and events (Carried)
Committee - Operations
The Operations Committee will consider a deputation from David Adams about electric‑vehicle chargers in the downtown core. It will also receive a presentation from the Water and Wastewater Manager on the Water Treatment Plant filter improvement update. Additionally, staff will report on an amended agreement with Automotive Materials Stewardship Inc. No motions or decisions are listed on the agenda.
- Deputation from David Adams – EV Chargers in the Downtown Core
- Presentation: Water Treatment Plant Filter Improvement Update
- Report OP-25-035 – Automotive Materials Stewardship Inc amending agreement
- Great Lakes Coastal Cleanup – World Rivers Day information poster
- Grey County Joint Municipal Services Committee – Waste Management Community of Practice shared opportunities
The Operations Committee approved the minutes from the June 26, 2025 meeting. It recommended that City Council direct staff to prepare a by‑law authorizing the Mayor and Clerk to execute the Automotive Materials Stewardship Inc. amending agreement for collection of used oil filters, containers and antifreeze. It also recommended that Council receive two informational items – the Great Lakes Coastal Cleanup notice and the Grey County waste‑management report – for information purposes.
- Approved minutes of the June 26, 2025 Operations Committee meeting (carried)
- Recommended City Council direct staff to draft a by‑law to authorize the Mayor and Clerk to execute the Automotive Materials Stewardship Inc. amending agreement (carried)
- Recommended City Council receive items 11.a and 11.b for information purposes (carried)
Committee - Community Services
The Community Services Committee will consider a presentation from the River District Coordinator on a Salmon Tour, review staff reports on a request to restore the Harrison Park marker tree and on renewing the Festival of Northern Lights agreement, and receive several site‑plan approvals for development projects as informational items. No motions or decisions are listed on the agenda.
- Presentation: River District Coordinator – Salmon Tour
- Report CS-25-091 – Harrison Park Marker Tree ecological restoration and cultural recognition request
- Report CS-25-094 – Agreement renewal for the Festival of Northern Lights
- Site‑plan approval DA-25-012 for 1800 8th Street East (Brightshores Accessory Building)
- Site‑plan approval DA-25-014 for 1875 16th Avenue East (Amazon)
The Community Services Committee approved the request to restore the Harrison Park marker tree and provide cultural recognition, using funds from the capital reserve for a plaque and up to $10,000 from the parkland reserve for ecological protection. It also directed staff to update the park’s heritage attributes in the 2026 work plan. The committee recommended that City Council renew the Festival of Northern Lights agreement and allocate up to $65,000 from the festival reserve for a display. Finally, it recommended that City Council receive several planning site‑plan items for information.
- Approved Harrison Park marker tree ecological restoration and cultural recognition (Carried)
- Directed staff to update Harrison Park heritage attributes in 2026 (Carried)
- Recommended City Council bring forward by‑law to execute Festival of Northern Lights agreement renewal (Carried)
- Allocated up to $65,000 from the Festival reserve for a display for the Festival of Northern Lights (Carried)
- Recommended City Council receive items 11.a‑11.g (planning correspondence) for information (Carried)
- Approved minutes of the July 16, 2025 Community Services Committee meeting (Carried)
Committee - Corporate Services
The Corporate Services Committee will hear a report from the Fire Chief on the Fire Marque Inc. update. Staff will also present a bi‑annual summary of awarded purchases between $50,000 and $249,999 for the first half of 2025, and a report on MPAC’s revised role for section 357 property‑tax applications. No deputations, public forum items, or motions are scheduled.
- Fire Chief report: Fire Marque Inc. update (Report CR-25-124)
- Bi‑annual summary of awarded purchases $50,000‑$249,999 (Report CR-25-121)
- Tax Collector report on MPAC’s revised role for s.357 applications (Report CR-25-111)
The Corporate Services Committee approved the minutes from the July 10 meeting. It recommended that City Council receive three staff reports—for the Fire Marque update, the bi‑annual purchases summary, and MPAC’s revised Section 357 role—for information. The committee also approved the two current Section 357 applications (Rockview Apartments and Parkway Plaza) and directed staff to develop a policy, procedure and a by‑law amendment to manage future applications.
- Approved July 10, 2025 meeting minutes (Carried)
- Recommended City Council receive Fire Marque Inc. update report (Carried)
- Recommended City Council receive bi‑annual purchases summary report (Carried)
- Recommended City Council receive MPAC Section 357 role report (Carried)
- Approved two Section 357 applications: Rockview Apartments and Parkway Plaza (Carried)
- Directed staff to draft policy and procedure for administering Section 357 applications (Carried)
- Directed staff to prepare a by‑law amendment to delegate authority to the Treasurer for Section 357 applications (Carried)
Committee - Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc
The Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc Committee will consider two staff reports: an update on the M365 Optimization Roadmap and a staffing proposal for Project 1c5 (Provision of By-law Services). The meeting also includes routine approval of previous minutes and public forum. No deputations or correspondence requiring direction are on the agenda.
- Report CR-25-105: Current State Assessment and M365 Optimization Roadmap update
- Report CR-25-106: Project 1c5 - Provision of By-law Services staffing proposal
- Confirmation of minutes from July 9 and July 16, 2025 meetings
The committee approved the minutes of three prior meetings held on July 9 and July 16, 2025. It recommended that City Council receive Staff Report CR-25-105 for information. It also recommended that City Council direct staff to include a By-law Enforcement Supervisor and a part‑time By-law Enforcement Officer in the Mayor’s 2026 budget (Option 1b). All motions were carried.
- Approved minutes of the July 9, 2025 meeting (carried)
- Approved minutes of the closed session on July 9, 2025 (carried)
- Approved minutes of the July 16, 2025 meeting (carried)
- Recommended City Council receive Staff Report CR-25-105 for information (carried)
- Recommended inclusion of a By-law Enforcement Supervisor and part‑time By-law Enforcement Officer in the Mayor’s 2026 budget (Option 1b) (carried)
Board - River District
The River District Board of Management will review the Draft 2026 Budget, receive a police update, and confirm minutes from a previous meeting. The meeting will be held at City Hall.
- Review of Draft 2026 Budget for Board Input
- Police Update from Owen Sound Police Service
- Confirmation of July 9, 2025 meeting minutes
- 2025 River District Block Captains Reorganization
- Final approvals for Alnasser Syrian Food and Indulgence VIP
The River District Board approved the minutes from the July 9 meeting and directed staff to make a $2,000 payment to Citizens on Patrol and to transfer the year‑end operating surplus to reserves. It also ordered a public meeting notice for November 12, 2025, and approved a $10,000 allocation for special initiatives in the 2026 draft budget. Staff were instructed to update the Block Captain map and the Board received a Treasurer’s financial report for information.
- Approved July 9, 2025 regular meeting minutes (carried)
- Approved July 9, 2025 closed‑session minutes (carried)
- Directed $2,000 payment to Citizens on Patrol (carried)
- Directed transfer of year‑end operating surplus to reserves (carried)
- Ordered notice of public meeting on Nov 12, 2025 (carried)
- Approved $10,000 inclusion in 2026 draft budget for special initiatives (carried)
- Directed update of River District Block Captain map (carried)
- Received Board Treasurer financial report for information (carried)
Council Meeting - Regular
Owen Sound City Council will meet to confirm previous minutes, move into committee, and vote on several by-laws including amendments to Short-Term Rental rules and the adoption of Strong Mayor Powers provisions.
- By-law 2025-096: Amends Short-Term Rental by-law regarding housekeeping and rental caps
- By-law 2025-097: Incorporates Strong Mayor Powers into Procedural By-law
- By-law 2025-098: Incorporates Strong Mayor Powers into Acting Mayor By-law
- By-law 2025-105: Authorizes agreement with WSP Canada Inc. for 4th Ave West reconstruction
- By-law 2025-106: Authorizes agreement with Baseline Constructors Inc. for Wastewater Treatment Plant fine screens
The council adopted the minutes from the July 21 regular and special meetings and moved into a Committee of the Whole. A motion to collect development charges for the Bayshore Terrace project was defeated, while a separate motion to enable a deferral agreement was approved. The budget for the Julie McArthur Regional Recreation Centre roof rehabilitation was increased by $350,000. The council also approved the 2026 board recruitment by‑law, postponed the 2026 meeting calendar, and approved the consent agenda items.
- Adopted minutes of July 21 regular and special council meetings (carried)
- Moved council into Committee of the Whole (carried)
- Defeated motion to collect development charges for Bayshore Terrace (4 opposed, 3 in favour)
- Approved by‑law to allow mayor and clerk to execute a development‑charge deferral agreement (4 in favour, 3 opposed)
- Approved $350,000 budget increase for Julie McArthur Regional Recreation Centre roof (from $920,950 to $1,270,950)
- Directed staff to undertake 2026 board and committee recruitment (carried)
- Postponed approval of the 2026 council and committee meeting calendar pending further report (carried)
- Approved consent agenda items including business licences, hawker licences and illumination requests (carried)
Committee - Committee of Adjustment
The Committee of Adjustment will decide on three minor variance applications (B10/B11-2025 for 2198 3rd Avenue East, A11-2025 for 1969 7th Avenue East, A13-2025 for 300 1st Street East) and receive information on a delegated consent approval (B06-2025) for 1875 16th Avenue East. The meeting also covers procedural items such as minutes, declarations, and correspondence.
- Minor variance applications B10-2025 and B11-2025 for 2198 3rd Avenue East
- Minor variance application A11-2025 for 1969 7th Avenue East
- Minor variance application A13-2025 for 300 1st Street East
- Delegated approval for undisputed consent B06-2025 for 1875 16th Avenue East (information item)
The Committee of Adjustment approved the June 24, 2025 meeting minutes. It approved minor variances for 1969 7th Avenue East and 300 1st Street East, each subject to conditions in Schedule E. The committee postponed consideration of applications B10-2025 and B11-2025 for 2198 3rd Avenue East to the September 23, 2025 meeting.
- Approved June 24, 2025 minutes (carried)
- Postponed applications B10-2025 and B11-2025 to Sep 23, 2025 (carried)
- Approved minor variance A11-2025 for 1969 7th Avenue East (carried)
- Approved minor variance A13-2025 for 300 1st Street East (carried)
Council Meeting - Regular
The Owen Sound City Council will consider a series of reports and by‑law motions. Key decisions include approving the 2026‑2030 Multi‑Year Capital Plan and authorizing several infrastructure projects. The council will also amend zoning and road‑allowance by‑laws and address land‑transfer and housing‑related items.
- Approval of the 2026‑2030 Multi‑Year Capital Plan (Report CR‑25‑095)
- By‑law No. 2025‑078 to close and declare surplus a portion of the 21st Street East road allowance (PIN 37059‑0588)
- By‑law No. 2025‑079 to amend Zoning By‑law No. 2010‑078 for lands at 28th Avenue East (ZBA No. 56)
- By‑law No. 2025‑080 authorizing the watermain replacement at 32nd Street East and East Bayshore Road (RFT‑25‑013)
- By‑law No. 2025‑081 authorizing the sanitary sewer replacement at 16th Avenue East and 20th Street East (RFT‑25‑015)
The council adopted minutes from recent meetings and entered Committee of the Whole. It approved a non‑standard procurement for a fleet‑management program, directed staff to advance a zoning by‑law amendment for 28th Avenue East, and authorized the transfer of three parcels on 8th Avenue East with a $45,000 grant for affordable housing. The council also cancelled two December special meetings, shortened the budget amendment and mayoral veto periods, and approved a $6,500 allocation for repairs to the Rice House while launching a request for expressions of interest for its interim use.
- Adopted minutes from June 16, July 7 (regular and closed) meetings (Carried)
- Approved non‑standard procurement of a Fleet Management program from Enterprise Fleet Management Canada Inc. (Carried)
- Directed staff to bring forward a by‑law to amend the zoning by‑law for 28th Avenue East (Carried)
- Authorized a $45,000 grant and transfer of lands at 2181, 2207, 2229 8th Avenue East to Owen Sound Housing Company (Carried)
- Cancelled the December 1‑2 special meetings and shortened budget amendment period to 29 days and mayoral veto override period to 11 days (Carried)
- Postponed consideration of the Rice House interim‑use report until September 8, 2025 (Defeated)
- Reconsidered and approved solicitation of expressions of interest for Rice House interim use (Carried by 2/3)
- Approved up to $6,500 from the Capital Reserve for immediate repairs to the Rice House (Carried)
Council Meeting - Special
The Owen Sound City Council will consider a motion to move the meeting into closed session. If approved, the council will review minutes from prior closed sessions, labour relations for fire services, personal appointments, litigation matters, and the City Manager performance review. The agenda also includes a report out of any closed‑session discussions, declarations of interest, and By‑law No. 2025‑076 confirming the special meeting proceedings.
- Motion to move into closed session to consider confidential items
- Report out of closed session discussions
- Declarations of interest
- By‑law No. 2025‑076 confirming special meeting proceedings
Council approved a motion to move into closed session to consider several confidential matters, and the motion carried. The council also passed By‑law No. 2025‑076, which confirms the proceedings of the special meeting, and the by‑law carried. No other substantive actions were taken.
- Approved motion to move into closed session (carried)
- Passed By‑law No. 2025‑076 confirming the special meeting (carried)
Committee - Community Services
The Community Services Committee will review a capital project update for the arena floor and boards, consider a grant application for a 2nd Avenue East business, and hear presentations from a heritage centre and tourism fund.
- Arena Floor and Boards Project Update - Capital Project 25H.8
- Facade and Accessibility Improvement Grants - 1047 2nd Ave E (Topper's Pizza)
- Heritage Property Tax Relief Program - 2024 Tax Refund Applications
- Deputation from Zachary McLean of the Community Waterfront Heritage Centre
- Presentation from Owen Sound Tourism Development Fund
The Community Services Committee approved a façade and structural improvement grant (up to $5,000) and an accessibility improvement grant (up to $10,000) for 1047 2nd Avenue East. It also recommended that City Council receive the arena floor and boards project report for information. The committee endorsed processing heritage property tax refunds for eligible 2024 applicants and advised Council to receive two items for information.
- Approved façade improvement grant (33% of eligible costs, max $5,000) – Carried
- Approved accessibility improvement grant (50% of eligible costs, max $10,000) – Carried
- Recommended City Council receive arena floor and boards project report – Carried
- Recommended processing of 2024 heritage property tax refunds – Carried
- Recommended issuing notice to Grey County for 20% heritage tax rebate – Carried
- Recommended City Council receive items 11.a‑11.b for information – Carried
Committee - Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc
The Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc Committee will consider four staff reports covering: LEAN Continuous Improvement for projects 1a6 and 2b2; mobile technology options for IT needs assessment (project 2b1); the process for annual fees and charges (project 4c3); and provision of by‑law services (project 1c5). No deputations, motions, or correspondence items are on the agenda. The meeting is scheduled for July 16, 2025, 9:00‑11:00 a.m. at City Hall.
- Report 25-017: LEAN Continuous Improvement Implementation – projects 1a6 and 2b2
- Report CR-25-080: Review mobile technology options for IT Needs Assessment – project 2b1
- Report CR-25-077: Process for Annual Fees and Charges – project 4c3
- Report CR-25-076: Provision of By‑law Services – project 1c5
The Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc Committee recommended three staff reports for City Council and carried those recommendations. A broader proposal to amend several by-laws and add staffing positions was defeated. The committee approved specific amendments to the Fees and Charges By-law and the By-law Enforcement Policy. Motions to include new by‑law staff positions in the 2026 budget were postponed.
- Recommend City Council receive LEAN Continuous Improvement report (SR-250716-001) – carried
- Recommend City Council receive Mobile Technology Options report (SR-250716-002) – carried
- Recommend City Council receive Annual Fees and Charges process report (SR-250716-003) – carried
- Comprehensive by-law amendment and staffing proposal defeated (SR-250716-004d)
- Amend Fees and Charges By-law: add $150 re‑inspection fee, raise Work Order fee to $120, increase Property Clean Up admin fee to 25% (SR-250716-005) – carried
- Amend By-law Enforcement Policy to permit pro‑active enforcement in River District and for repeat Yard Maintenance offences (SR-250716-005) – carried
- Motion to include By-law Supervisor and Enforcement Officer positions in 2026 budget postponed (SR-250716-006)
- Resolution to postpone staffing motion until further staff report carried (SR-250716-007)
Committee - Corporate Services
The Corporate Services Committee will confirm the minutes from its May 8, 2025 meeting. It will review a report on surety bonds (CR-25-054) and a draft surety bonds policy. The committee will discuss and potentially endorse the 2025 Asset Management Plan (CR-25-091). No deputations, presentations, or correspondence items are on the agenda.
- Confirm minutes of the May 8, 2025 Corporate Services Committee meeting
- Review Report CR-25-054 on Surety Bonds and draft Surety Bonds Policy (AF017)
- Review Report CR-25-091 for endorsement of the 2025 Asset Management Plan
- No deputations or presentations scheduled
- No correspondence items requiring direction or information
The Corporate Services Committee approved the minutes from the May 8, 2025 meeting. It recommended that City Council approve the Surety Bonds and Letter of Credit Policy and direct staff to finalize standard templates. It also recommended that City Council receive the 2025 Asset Management Plan report for information. All three motions were carried.
- Approved minutes of the May 8, 2025 meeting (carried)
- Recommended City Council approve Surety Bonds and Letter of Credit Policy and direct staff to finalize templates (carried)
- Recommended City Council receive 2025 Asset Management Plan report for information (carried)
Board - River District
The River District Board of Management will meet to discuss a deputation on pedestrianizing 2nd Avenue East and review feedback on a Short-Term Rental licensing program. The board will also consider appointing a Director and receive a verbal report on police updates and board finances.
- Deputation on pedestrianizing 2nd Avenue East
- Review of Short-Term Rental (STR) Licensing Program
- Appointment of Director to the River District Board of Management
- Verbal report from Owen Sound Police Service
- Verbal report from Board Treasurer on finances
The River District Board approved a motion directing staff to forward a memo to City Council supporting the removal of principal‑residence and rental‑cap requirements for short‑term rentals in C1 and MC zones. It also instructed staff to update the River District Action Plan using internal resources, reallocating $10,000 and returning $20,000 to reserves, and to request City Council approve the appointment of Adrienne Robinson. Additional items were received for information, including a police foot‑patrol report and the board’s financial balance.
- Motion to move into closed session – carried (moved by Vice Chair Thomas)
- Confirmation of May 14 minutes – carried (moved by Member Hannen)
- Receive police update report for information – carried (moved by Member Hannen)
- Direct staff to forward memo supporting removal of STR caps – carried (moved by Vice Chair Thomas)
- Direct staff to update Action Plan and reallocate $10,000 – carried (moved by Councillor Dodd)
- Direct staff to request appointment of Adrienne Robinson – carried (moved by Vice Chair Thomas)
- Receive board finances report for information – carried (moved by Member Hannen)
- Approve business licence for Tibbs Management Inc. – carried (moved by Member Legate)
Committee - Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc
The Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc Committee will hear reports from fire services, human resources, engineering, strategic initiatives, IT, treasury, and the city clerk on various ongoing projects. No deputations, public comments, or motions are scheduled. The meeting will conclude with a public forum and adjournment.
- Report CR-25-069: Fire Services fleet strategy update (Project 1d1)
- Report OP-25-026: Fire Services fleet replacement update (Project 1d1)
- Report CR-25-078: Human Resources comprehensive onboarding program (Project 1a1)
- Report CM-25-022: Engineering and Public Works structure review (Project 1a3)
- Report CR-25-077: Process for annual fees and charges (Project 4c3)
The committee approved the minutes from its April 9, 2025 meeting. It recommended that City Council receive several staff reports for information, including the fire‑services fleet strategy, a capital‑lease program, and the comprehensive onboarding program. After a closed‑session discussion of a labour‑relations matter, the committee directed Council to include the realignment of five seasonal public‑works positions and new Mid‑ST staffing positions (excluding the Backflow Prevention Coordinator) in the Mayor’s 2026 budget, while a motion to include the new positions in the Ideal Option was defeated.
- Approved minutes of April 9, 2025 meeting (carried)
- Recommended Council receive Fire Services Fleet Management Strategy report (carried)
- Recommended Council direct staff to develop capital lease program report (carried)
- Recommended Council receive Comprehensive Onboarding Program report (carried)
- Moved into closed session to consider labour‑relations matter (carried)
- Recommended Council include realignment of five seasonal positions in Mayor’s 2026 budget (carried)
- Recommended Council include new staffing positions in Ideal Option in Mayor’s 2026 budget (defeated)
- Recommended Council include new staffing positions in Mid ST Option (excluding Backflow Prevention Coordinator) in Mayor’s 2026 budget (carried)
Council Meeting - Regular
Owen Sound City Council will discuss a zoning by-law amendment for the former Georgian Heights property and the closure of a road allowance on 21st Street East. The body is also reviewing several contracts for paving, fuel supply, and development charge deferrals.
- Zoning By-law Amendment No. 55 for 1115 10th Street East
- Closing and declaring surplus part of 21st Street East Road Allowance
- Paving contract with Walker Construction Limited (RFT-TS-20-25)
- Fuel supply contract with Midwest Co-operative Services Inc. (RFT-TS-07-25)
- Development Charges Deferral Agreement for 1615 2nd Avenue East
The council directed staff to bring forward a by‑law to pass Zoning By‑law Amendment No. 55, allowing 36 new residential units at 1115 10th Street East. It also approved a by‑law to stop up and close the southerly two‑thirds of 21st Street East west of 9th Avenue and to declare that portion surplus. The consent agenda items and several committee minutes were received and approved. The council then moved to a closed session for specific privileged matters.
- Approved Zoning By‑law Amendment No. 55 for 1115 10th St East (Carried)
- Approved by‑law to stop up and close 2/3 of 21st St East west of 9th Ave and declare surplus (Carried)
- Adopted minutes of five prior council meetings (Carried)
- Approved all items on the consent agenda, including development charges deferral and tender awards (Carried)
- Approved minutes and recommendations of Strategic Planning, Community Services, and Operations committee meetings (Carried)
- Moved council into Committee of the Whole to consider agenda items (Carried)
- Moved council into Closed Session for privileged matters (Carried)
- Noted upcoming Hottest Street Sale on July 12 along 2nd Avenue East (Informational)
Council Meeting - Special
City Council will review a report regarding a community organization meeting for the River District. The meeting also includes a closed session to discuss police services, specifically regarding labor relations and employee negotiations.
- Report on Community Organization Meeting Regarding River District (CM-25-023)
- Request from the Chair of Owen Sound Police Service Board to arrange a meeting
- Support letter for a Community Safety and Policing (CSP) grant for the City Guardian Pilot Project
- Closed session regarding police services labor relations and employee negotiations
The council moved into a Committee of the Whole to consider staff reports and adopted those proceedings. It directed the City Manager to organize a River District community meeting. A closed‑session was held on police labour matters, but no further direction was given. By‑law No. 2025‑068 confirming the special meeting was passed.
- Motion to move Council into Committee of the Whole – Carried
- Motion directing City Manager to organize River District community meeting – Carried
- Motion for Committee of the Whole to rise and report – Carried
- Motion to adopt Committee of the Whole proceedings – Carried
- Motion to move into closed session on police labour matters – Carried
- By‑law No. 2025‑068 confirming special meeting proceedings – Carried
Committee - Operations
The Operations Committee will receive reports and presentations on several operational matters, including a presentation on the 16th Avenue East sanitary sewer replacement, transit performance data, road conditions, traffic by-law amendments for on-street parking and loading, winter control operations, and a proposed water management by-law. The committee discusses these items but does not make final decisions.
- Presentation from GSS Engineering on 16th Avenue East sanitary sewer replacement (17th St E to 20th St E)
- Transit Dashboard performance data for January to May 2025
- Traffic By-law amendments for on-street parking, loading and stopping regulations at multiple locations
- Winter Control Operational Update for 2023-2025 with material cost data
- Draft Water Management By-law 2025-XXX
The Operations Committee approved the minutes from the May 15, 2025 meeting. It recommended that City Council receive several staff reports for information, including a sanitary sewer presentation, a transit dashboard, a roads condition update, and a winter control update. The committee directed staff to draft a by‑law to authorize the grant agreement for the Great Lakes Coastal Cleanup and to bring forward a by‑law amending the Traffic By‑law with new parking and stopping prohibitions. It also recommended that City Council approve the Water Management By‑law recommendations.
- Approved minutes of May 15, 2025 Operations Committee meeting (Carried)
- Recommended City Council receive GSS Engineering sanitary sewer presentation (Carried)
- Recommended City Council receive Transit Dashboard report (Carried)
- Directed staff to bring forward a by‑law to authorize the Great Lakes Coastal Cleanup grant (Carried)
- Recommended City Council receive Roads Condition Update report (Carried)
- Recommended City Council receive Traffic By‑law Amendments and directed staff to bring forward the amendment by‑law (Carried)
- Recommended City Council receive 2023‑2025 Winter Control Operational Update report (Carried)
- Recommended City Council approve Water Management By‑law recommendations and direct staff to draft the by‑law (Carried)
Committee - Community Services
The Community Services Committee will hear a staff report (CS-25-061) requesting the renaming of Ryerson Park. The committee will also review design proposals for playgrounds at Owen Heights and Comm‑er‑ette Park (CS-25-062). Additional public input will be heard during the public forum and deponents will present ideas on a possible cricket grounds and upcoming zoning review.
- Report CS-25-061: Request to rename Ryerson Park
- Report CS-25-062: Design options for Owen Heights and Comm‑er‑ette Park playgrounds
- Deputation on possible cricket grounds in Owen Sound
- Deputation providing ideas for the upcoming zoning review
- Public forum for resident comments
The Community Services Committee approved the design and layout for Owen Heights and Comm-er-Ette Parks. It also recommended staff appointments to support the Ryerson Park renaming working group and directed staff to pursue economic development funding applications. The committee waived notice rules to discuss Bill 5 and asked for a report on the bill for a future meeting.
- Approved minutes of the May 21, 2025 meeting (Carried)
- Recommended City Council appoint staff (Tim Simmonds, Briana Bloomfield, Pamela Coulter, Eckhard Pastrik) to support the Ryerson Park renaming working group (Carried)
- Recommended City Council approve design and layout for Owen Heights and Comm-er-Ette Parks (Carried)
- Recommended City Council direct staff to prepare and submit applications for economic development funding (Carried)
- Recommended City Council receive Item 11.a (Chief Building Official memo) for information purposes (Carried)
- Waived notice provisions to discuss Bill 5, Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act (Carried by 2/3)
- Recommended City Council direct staff to bring forward a report on Bill 5 for the September 17, 2025 meeting (Carried)
Committee - Committee of Adjustment
The Committee of Adjustment will hear and decide on minor variance applications for 1548 20th Street East (A09-2025) and 863 5th Avenue West (A10-2025), as well as a consent application for 863 5th Avenue West (B12-2025). The committee will also consider a report recommending cancellation of a certificate for 1875 16th Avenue East and appoint a secretary-treasurer.
- Minor variance A09-2025 for 1548 20th Street East (Webster)
- Minor variance A10-2025 for 863 5th Avenue West (Hindman)
- Consent B12-2025 for 863 5th Avenue West (Hindman)
- Request for certificate of cancellation for 1875 16th Avenue East
- Appointment of Committee of Adjustment Secretary-Treasurer
The Committee approved the minutes from the May 27, 2025 meeting and appointed a new secretary‑treasurer. It approved three minor variances—A09‑2025 for 1548 20th St E, A10‑2025 for 863 5th Ave W, and a lot‑creation consent B12‑2025 for 863 5th Ave W—each subject to conditions in Schedule E. The Committee also approved a Certificate of Cancellation for 1875 16th Ave E. All motions carried.
- Approved minutes of the May 27, 2025 Committee of Adjustment meeting (Carried)
- Approved minor variance A09-2025 for 1548 20th Street East (Carried)
- Approved minor variance A10-2025 for 863 5th Avenue West (Carried)
- Approved lot‑creation consent B12-2025 for 863 5th Avenue West (Carried)
- Approved issuance of Certificate of Cancellation for 1875 16th Avenue East (Carried)
- Appointed a secretary‑treasurer and authorized delegation of authority (Carried)
Council Meeting - Special
This special meeting includes a public hearing on Zoning By-law Amendment No. 56 for the Bruce Grey Catholic District School Board property at 28th Avenue East. Council will also receive updates on the Centennial Tower structural assessment and the 2026-2030 multi-year capital plan, including a postponed motion to increase the capital budget annual increase from 1% to 2%.
- Public hearing on Zoning By-law Amendment No. 56 - 28th Avenue East (Bruce Grey Catholic District School Board)
- Report CR-25-083 on Centennial Tower structural assessment and capital needs
- Presentation and report on Draft 2026-2030 Multi-Year Capital Plan
- Postponed motion to increase annual capital budget increase from 1% to 2%
- By-law No. 2025-067 to confirm proceedings of the special meeting
The council moved into a Committee of the Whole and approved several capital‑plan actions, including directing staff to include the Centennial Tower rehabilitation cost as an unfunded item and to add 3.1 km of Grey Road 1 (Eddie Sargeant Parkway) rehabilitation to the 2026‑2030 Multi‑Year Capital Plan, pending a road transfer. Motions to consult on interim uses of the Rice House and to move the Community Engagement survey to the 2027 budget were also considered, with the Rice House motion defeated and the survey motion carried. A previously postponed motion to raise the dedicated annual capital‑budget levy to 2 % was withdrawn, and the mayor will issue a direction to implement the increase in the draft 2026 budget.
- Moved to Committee of the Whole – Carried
- Include Centennial Tower rehab cost in 2026‑2030 Capital Plan as unfunded – Carried
- Strike ‘and associated path of travel upgrades’ from Centennial Tower resolution – Carried
- Receive Summary of Committee Feedback for 2026‑2030 Capital Plan – Carried
- Consult on interim uses of the Rice House – Defeated
- Remove Community Engagement – Citizen Satisfaction Survey from 2026 budget, place in 2027 budget – Carried
- Direct staff to bring forward report on municipal cricket pitch – Carried
- Include rehabilitation of 3.1 km Grey Road 1 (Eddie Sargeant Parkway) as unfunded project – Carried
Committee - Strategic Planning Ad Hoc
The Strategic Planning Ad Hoc Committee will discuss a staff report (CM-25-020) on the implementation of the city's Vision 2050 long-term plan. No other substantive business is on the agenda.
- Report CM-25-020 from the Senior Manager of Strategic Initiatives and Operational Effectiveness re: Vision 2050 - Implementation Plan
The Strategic Planning Ad Hoc Committee approved the minutes from its April 30, 2025 meeting. It also adopted a recommendation that City Council receive the Vision 2050 implementation report for information and direct staff to prepare a follow‑up report with committee feedback for a future meeting.
- Approved minutes of the April 30, 2025 meeting (carried)
- Recommended City Council receive the Vision 2050 implementation report for information (carried)
- Recommended staff prepare and present an additional Vision 2050 report with committee feedback at a future meeting (carried)
Council Meeting - Regular
Council holds a public meeting and considers a technical report for Zoning By-law Amendment No. 55 at 1115 10th Street East (former Georgian Heights). Also on the agenda: a proposed update to the city's flag policy for international flags, a motion to study raising the maximum lawn height to allow no-mow May, and several by-laws including a new fees and charges schedule and a contract for sanitary pump station rehabilitation at 27th Street West.
- Public meeting and technical report for ZBA No. 55 rezoning 1115 10th Street East
- Motion to request a staff report in early 2026 on updating the Yard Maintenance By-law to allow higher lawns and no-mow May
- Report CM-25-012 cancelling the project to evaluate joint policing between Owen Sound Police and West Grey Police
- Award of RFT-25-005 for 27th Street West sanitary pump station rehabilitation to Quattro Contracting Inc.
- By-law No. 2025-060 to establish a new Fees and Charges schedule, repealing By-law 2024-078
Council adopted the minutes from three previous meetings and moved into Committee of the Whole. It directed staff to continue processing Zoning By‑law Amendment No. 55 for 1115 10th Street East. The council also instructed staff to draft a by‑law amendment to the city’s Flag Flying Policy. All items on the consent agenda were approved.
- Adopted minutes of April 28, May 26 and June 2 council meetings (Carried)
- Moved into Committee of the Whole to consider agenda items (Carried)
- Directed staff to continue processing ZBA 55 for 1115 10th Street East (Carried)
- Directed staff to bring forward a by‑law amendment to update the Flag Flying Policy (Carried)
- Received verbal report from Deputy Mayor on Grey County Council matters (Carried)
- Approved consent agenda items, including project updates and procurement awards (Carried)
Council Meeting - Special
This special meeting of Owen Sound City Council includes staff reports on road closure requests for the Pride Block Party and the Downtown River Precinct Phase 2 Opening Celebration, as well as a project update on the Owen Sound Fire Station expansion and renovation. Council will also hear a deputation on asset management training and consider a by-law to confirm the meeting's proceedings.
- Road closure requests for Pride Block Party and Downtown River Precinct Phase 2 Opening Celebration
- Owen Sound Fire Station expansion and renovation project update (Report CR-25-075)
- Deputation from Hemson Consulting on asset management training
- By-law No. 2025-058 to confirm proceedings of the special meeting
The Council approved temporary street closures and licensed areas for a Pride Block Party on June 21 and the Downtown River Precinct Phase 2 Opening Celebration on June 6. It also directed staff to remove certain spaces from the fire‑station design, identified an upset capital budget of $5.1 million, and ordered the revised budget be included in the 2026‑2030 Multi‑Year Capital Plan. Finally, the Council created an ad‑hoc committee to oversee the fire‑hall renovation and expansion.
- Moved Council into Committee of the Whole (carried)
- Approved road closures and licensed areas for Pride Block Party and Downtown River Precinct Opening Celebration (carried)
- Moved into Closed Session to discuss fire‑service labour matters (carried)
- Directed removal of display area and training space; identified $5.1 M upset budget; added revised budget to 2026‑2030 Capital Plan (carried)
- Directed staff to form fire‑hall renovation and expansion ad‑hoc committee with three council members (carried)
- Committee of the Whole rose and reported (carried)
- Adopted Committee of the Whole proceedings (carried)
- Passed By‑law No. 2025‑058 confirming special meeting proceedings (carried)
Committee - Committee of Adjustment
The Committee of Adjustment will consider three applications. These include a minor variance (file A08-2025) and a consent (file B08-2025) for 240 2nd Street East submitted by Grey Rose Inc., and a consent (file B09-2025) for 1663 5th Ave. E submitted by Miles. The committee will review the site plans, conditions, and agency comments attached to each application.
- Minor Variance A08-2025 for 240 2nd Street East (Grey Rose Inc.)
- Consent B08-2025 for 240 2nd Street East (Grey Rose Inc.)
- Consent B09-2025 for 1663 5th Ave. E (Miles)
The Committee of Adjustment approved a minor variance (A08‑2025) for 240 2nd Street East. It also approved two consent applications: B08‑2025 for lot creation at the same address and B09‑2025 for lot creation at 1663 5th Avenue East. All approvals were subject to the conditions outlined in Schedule E of the respective staff reports.
- Approved Minor Variance A08‑2025 for 240 2nd Street East (Carried)
- Approved Consent Application B08‑2025 for 240 2nd Street East (Carried)
- Approved Consent Application B09‑2025 for 1663 5th Avenue East (Carried)
Council Meeting - Regular
The Owen Sound City Council will consider a series of by‑laws authorizing agreements for development, infrastructure and service contracts. Items include a development charges exemption for a rental housing project, road and watermain work on 9th Avenue East, and roof rehabilitation at the Julie McArthur Regional Recreation Centre. The council will also adopt by‑laws for appointing a municipal auditor, updating the dog by‑law and other administrative matters.
- By‑law No. 2025‑050: Development Charges Exemption Agreement for rental housing at 3195 East Bayshore Rd
- By‑law No. 2025‑051: Agreement with E.C. King Contracting for road rehabilitation and watermain replacement on 9th Ave Ave E (Superior St to 6th St E)
- By‑law No. 2025‑052: Agreement with Spinton Roofing Ltd. for roof rehabilitation at Julie McArthur Regional Recreation Centre
- By‑law No. 2025‑053: Appointment of MNP LLP as the municipal auditor for the City of Owen Sound
- By‑law No. 2025‑057: Amendment to Dog By‑law to address dangerous dogs and leash/muzzle orders
The council approved a motion (6‑1) directing staff to arrange a meeting with the Police Service Board and a follow‑up meeting with downtown stakeholders to discuss business conditions. It also directed staff to start the process to rename Ryerson Park and appointed a working group for that task. Council instructed staff to repeal the 2024 Fees and Charges By‑law and prepare a new by‑law for 2025, and to begin recruiting a public member for the Corporate Services Committee. The consent agenda items, including several business licences and service agreements, were received and approved.
- Approved motion to convene downtown business conditions meetings (6‑1)
- Directed staff to initiate Ryerson Park renaming process (carried)
- Appointed Councillors Farmer, Hamley, Koepke to park‑renaming working group (carried)
- Directed repeal of Fees and Charges By‑law No. 2024‑078 and preparation of new by‑law (carried)
- Authorized recruitment for one public member vacancy on Corporate Services Committee (carried)
- Approved consent agenda items including licences and service agreements (carried)
- Approved minutes of Corporate Services Committee meeting (May 8, 2025) (carried)
- Approved minutes of Tom Thomson Art Gallery Advisory Committee meeting (May 7, 2025) (carried)
Committee - Community Services
The Community Services Committee will discuss the 2026-2030 Multi-year Capital Plan and updates to 2025 fees and charges. The meeting includes a presentation on the Official Plan and Zoning By-law updates, as well as proposed adjustments to 2025 parks capital projects.
- 2026-2030 Multi-year Capital Plan for Community Services (Report CR-25-067)
- 2025 Fees and Charges Update (Report CR-25-063)
- Proposed amendments to 2025 Parks Capital Projects (Report CS-25-050)
- Presentation on Official Plan Update, Zoning By-law Update and Urban Design Guidelines
- Information on Site Plan DA-25-002 (Princess Auto Expansion) and DA-25-004 (297 18th Street E)
The Community Services Committee approved the minutes from the April 16 meeting and recommended several reports for City Council, including the 2025 Fees and Charges update and the draft 2026‑2030 multi‑year capital plan. It approved a series of budget adjustments and reallocations totaling $145,500 for Harrison Park and playground projects. The committee also waived procedural notice to discuss parking enforcement at the Julie McArthur Regional Recreation Centre and asked staff to report on enforcement options for the 2026 budget.
- Approved minutes of April 16, 2025 (Carried)
- Recommended Council receive 2025 Fees and Charges Update report (Carried)
- Recommended Council direct staff to bring forward draft 2026‑2030 capital plan report (Carried)
- Approved adjustments and reallocations to 2025 Parks and Open Space Capital Plan (Carried)
- Recommended Council receive items 11.a‑11.e for information (Carried)
- Waived notice of motion to discuss parking enforcement at Julie McArthur Recreation Centre (Carried by 2/3)
- Recommended Council direct staff to report on parking enforcement options for 2026 budget (Carried)
Committee - Operations
The Operations Committee will consider the 2026–2030 Multi-Year Capital Plan, including funded and unfunded project lists. It will also discuss a proposed update to 2025 fees and charges for operations, covering water and wastewater rates. A report on green bin public engagement and survey results from the GOST initiative are also on the agenda.
- 2026–2030 Multi-Year Capital Plan with funded and unfunded project lists
- 2025 Fees and Charges Update – Operations, including water and wastewater rate schedules
- Report OP-25-021 on Green Bin Project Public Engagement
- Correspondence from Supervisor of Environmental Services on GOST Survey Results
The Operations Committee approved the minutes from its April 17 meeting. It recommended that City Council receive the Green Bin Project Public Engagement report, the 2025 Operations Fees and Charges Update, and a draft 2026‑2030 Multi‑Year Capital Plan for information and feedback. All four motions were carried.
- Approved minutes of the April 17, 2025 Operations Committee meeting (carried)
- Recommended City Council receive Green Bin Project Public Engagement report (OP-25-021) for information (carried)
- Recommended City Council receive 2025 Operations Fees and Charges Update report (CR-25-062) for information (carried)
- Recommended City Council direct staff to bring forward draft 2026‑2030 Multi‑Year Capital Plan and incorporate Committee feedback (carried)
Board - River District
The River District Board of Management will hear a deputation from police on updated drug possession charging, and from the City Clerk on short-term rental licensing. A report proposes starting the Municipal Act process to expand River District boundaries with preliminary consultation. The board will also evaluate replacing poster kiosks and receive a police update, board finances, and action plan updates.
- Deputation from Inspector Bishop on updated approach to drug possession charges
- Deputation from City Clerk on review of short-term rental licensing program
- Report CR-25-065 on Municipal Act process to expand River District boundaries and preliminary consultation approach
- Report CS-25-048 on poster kiosk evaluation and replacement
- Final approvals for business licenses: Muse Medical Aesthetics (345 8th St E), Naagan restaurant (277 10th St E), Tripsy Ad-Hoc Technologies (1051 2nd Ave E), The Rocking Horse relocation (849 2nd Ave E)
Council Meeting - Regular
Owen Sound City Council will consider several by-laws including fee changes for derby camping and civil marriages, adoption of a tax policy, and agreements with the school board and Circular Materials Ontario. Council also will decide on leasing a municipal parking area on 11th Street West and a request to purchase a portion of the 21st Street East unopened road. A postponed report on intersection improvements at 9th Avenue East and 6th Street East will be discussed.
- Report CS-25-045: Request to lease portion of municipal parking area on 11th Street West
- Report CS-25-046: Request by Barry’s Construction to purchase a portion of 21st Street East unopened road
- By-law 2025-044: Amending fees for derby camping and civil marriages
- By-law 2025-045: Adopting a policy respecting taxes
- Report OP-25-019 (postponed): Intersection improvement options at 9th Avenue East and 6th Street East
The council adopted seven new by‑laws covering proceedings, camping, fees, taxes and school‑court use. It approved a lease for five municipal parking spaces on 11th Street West at $300 each. Staff was directed to proceed with a modified design for the 9th Ave E and 6th St E intersection, noting temporary AODA non‑compliance. The consent agenda items, including business licences, were received and approved.
- Adopted By‑laws No. 2025‑042 to 2025‑048 (seven by‑laws) – Carried
- Approved lease of 5 parking spaces on 11th St West ($300 each, total $1,500) – Carried
- Directed staff to proceed with modified 9th Ave E/6th St E intersection design – Carried
- Received and approved Consent Agenda items 11.a‑11.h, including business licences – Carried
- Approved business licences for Painted Paws Spa, Sunnyside Grill, fire‑works retailer, Tees 2 Green, and new owner of Owen Sound KIA – Carried
- Adopted minutes of April 14, April 28 (regular) and April 28 (special) council meetings – Carried
- Moved council into Committee of the Whole to consider agenda items – Carried
- Confirmed Committee of the Whole actions by formal council vote – Carried
Committee - Corporate Services
The committee will discuss a multi-year capital plan for 2026-2030, a 2025 fees and charges update, a T1 financial update, a council expense policy amendment, and an animal control year-in-review. These reports may lead to recommendations to City Council.
- 2026-2030 Multi-year Capital Plan for Corporate Services (CR-25-058)
- 2025 Fees and Charges Update for Corporate Services and Fire (CR-25-055)
- 2025 T1 Financial Update (CR-25-057)
- AF015 Council Expense Policy review (CR-25-056)
- Animal Control 2024 Year in Review and Dog By-law Update (CR-25-053)
The Corporate Services Committee approved the minutes from the April 10 meeting. It recommended that Council direct staff to draft an amendment to the Dog By-law. It also advised Council to receive several financial reports, to bring forward a draft multi‑year capital plan, to update the fire‑station renovation project status before a June 2 special meeting, and to approve an updated Council Expense Policy while rescinding the old policy. All motions were carried.
- Approved minutes of the April 10, 2025 meeting (Carried)
- Recommended City Council direct staff to draft an amendment to the Dog By-law (Carried)
- Recommended City Council direct staff to bring forward a report on the draft 2026‑2030 multi‑year capital plan (Carried)
- Recommended City Council direct staff to bring forward a fire‑station renovation project status update for the June 2 special council meeting (Carried)
- Recommended City Council receive the 2025 Fees and Charges Update report for information (Carried)
- Recommended City Council receive the 2025 T1 Financial Update report for information (Carried)
- Recommended City Council direct staff to bring forward a by‑law to approve the updated Council Expense Policy and rescind the existing Council Budget Policy (Carried)
Committee - Tom Thomson Art Gallery Advisory
The Tom Thomson Art Gallery Advisory Committee will receive a presentation on spring highlights from the Director and Chief Curator, discuss a May update report (AG-25-004), and consider a proposed Standard Operating Procedure for attendance tracking (AG-25-005). The committee will also hear an update from the Fundraising Team. No binding decisions are scheduled; items are for discussion and information.
- Presentation from Director and Chief Curator re: Spring Highlights
- Report AG-25-004: May Update from Director and Chief Curator
- Report AG-25-005: Standard Operating Procedure for Attendance Tracking
- Update Report from Fundraising Team
The Tom Thomson Art Gallery Advisory Committee approved the minutes from its February 5, 2025 meeting. It recommended that City Council receive the May Update Report (AG-25-004) for information. It also recommended that City Council receive the Standard Operating Procedure for Attendance Tracking report (AG-25-005) for information. Finally, it recommended that City Council receive the Fundraising Team update report (AG-250507-004) for information.
- Approved minutes of February 5, 2025 meeting (carried)
- Recommended City Council receive May Update Report AG-25-004 (carried)
- Recommended City Council receive SOP Attendance Tracking report AG-25-005 (carried)
- Recommended City Council receive Fundraising Team update report AG-250507-004 (carried)
Committee - Strategic Planning Ad Hoc
The Strategic Planning Ad Hoc Committee will review Report CM-25-010 from the Senior Manager of Strategic Initiatives and Operational Effectiveness, which provides a community engagement summary for the Vision 2050 long-term planning process. No other substantive items are on the agenda. The meeting also includes routine procedural items such as minutes approval and declarations of interest.
- Report CM-25-010: Vision 2050 Community Engagement Report and Engagement Summary
The Strategic Planning Ad Hoc Committee approved the minutes from its February 12, 2025 meeting. It also adopted a recommendation that City Council receive the Vision 2050 Community Engagement Summary report for information purposes. Both motions were carried.
- Approved minutes of February 12, 2025 meeting (carried)
- Recommended City Council receive Vision 2050 Engagement Summary report (carried)
Council Meeting - Special
Owen Sound City Council will hold a special meeting to review a provincial proposal regarding Strong Mayor powers. The session includes a presentation from legal counsel and a report from the City Manager and City Clerk.
- Presentation from John Mascarin of Aird & Berlis LLP regarding Strong Mayor powers
- Report CM-25-014 from the City Manager and City Clerk regarding Strong Mayor powers
- Review of correspondence from the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing
- Confirmation of minutes from the April 17, 2025, Special County of Grey Joint All Councils meeting
The council adopted a resolution sending a letter to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing asking that Owen Sound be removed from the list of municipalities designated under strong mayor powers. The resolution passed with eight votes in favour and none opposed. The council also approved By‑law No. 2025‑035 confirming the special meeting proceedings and adopted several procedural motions to move into and report from Committee of the Whole.
- Resolution to request reversal of strong mayor powers (8‑0) carried
- Adopted By‑law No. 2025‑035 confirming special meeting proceedings carried
- Motion to move Council into Committee of the Whole carried
- Motion for Committee of the Whole to rise and report carried
- Motion to adopt Committee of the Whole proceedings carried
- Report CM‑25‑014 on strong mayor powers received for information carried
Council Meeting - Regular
Council will discuss options to improve the intersection at 9th Avenue East and 6th Street East. Several agreements are proposed for approval, including a development charges exemption for SkyDev Bayshore rental housing and a housing enabling water system grant. A by-law will authorize an agreement for a playground and splash pad at Kelso Beach at Nawash Park. The meeting also includes a closed session for personal matters and board appointments.
- Intersection improvement options for 9th Ave E at 6th St E (staff report OP-25-019)
- Development charges exemption agreement for SkyDev Bayshore rental housing (consent agenda item CR-25-050)
- Extension request for draft plan of subdivision 42T-15501 (consent agenda item CS-25-044)
- Award of RFT-25-007 for replacement of watermain cathodic protection – Phase 9 (consent agenda item CR-25-048)
- By-laws to authorize agreements for playground/splash pad at Kelso Beach and FlixBus transit terminal access
The council adopted prior meeting minutes and moved into Committee of the Whole. It approved a $325,292.46 budgeting software contract and postponed several items, including an intersection improvement and a short‑term rental review. A motion to support the County’s hybrid planning model was defeated, effectively opting the city out of the plan.
- Adopted minutes from March 19, March 24, and April 14 council meetings (carried)
- Moved Council into Committee of the Whole to consider agenda items (carried)
- Postponed consideration of Intersection Improvement Options – 9th Ave E at 6th St E until May 12, 2025 (carried)
- Approved purchase of budgeting software from Euna Solutions Inc. for $325,292.46 and directed staff to bring forward a by‑law (carried)
- Received Grey County Council verbal report for information purposes (carried)
- Approved consent agenda items 11.a‑11.d and issued business licences for Diamond Baseball & Fitness, Kim Stewart & Associates, and River District events (carried)
- Motion to opt out of County’s hybrid planning service model defeated 4‑5 (defeated)
- Postponed review of Short‑Term Rental licensing program to River District Board meeting on May 14, 2025 (carried)
Committee - Committee of Adjustment
The Committee of Adjustment is meeting to decide on several applications for minor variances and consents. Applications include two minor variances and one consent for properties on 16th Street East and 3rd Avenue West, plus two staff-delegated consents for 16th Avenue East and 4th Avenue West. The meeting also includes confirmation of previous minutes and reports on earlier delegated approvals.
- Minor variance application A05-2025 for 1990 and 2010 16th Street East
- Minor variance A06-2025 and consent B05-2025 for 2605 3rd Avenue West
- Minor variance A07-2025 for 1875 16th Avenue East
- Staff delegated approval for consent B06-2025 at 1875 16th Avenue East (undisputed)
- Staff delegated approval for consent B07-2025 at 855 4th Avenue 'A' West (undisputed)
The Committee of Adjustment approved four minor variance applications and one consent application, all subject to conditions in Schedule E. All motions were carried without recorded vote counts. The Committee also received two items for information purposes.
- Approved Minor Variance A05-2025 for 1990 20th Ave East & 2010 16th St East (carried)
- Approved Minor Variance A06-2025 for 2605 3rd Ave West (carried)
- Approved Consent Application B05-2025 for lot creation at 2605 3rd Ave West (carried)
- Approved Minor Variance A07-2025 for 1875 16th Ave East & 1929 20th St East (carried)
- Received Item 8.a (Undisputed Consent B03-2025) for information (carried)
- Received Item 8.b (Undisputed Consent B04-2025) for information (carried)
Committee - Operations
The Operations Committee will receive reports on the 2025 water rate and sewer surcharge update, a drinking water standard of care, and agreements for community recycling calendars and Product Care. Deputations are scheduled on the 32nd Street East watermain replacement and a city rate study from Hemson. Items are presented for discussion and information; no votes are scheduled on the agenda.
- Report CR-25-043: 2025 Water Rate and Sewer Surcharge Update with attached budgets and capital plans
- Report OP-25-017: Drinking Water Standard of Care
- Deputation from GSS Engineering Consultants Ltd. on 32nd Street East watermain replacement
- Deputation from Hemson on City of Owen Sound Rate Study
- Report OP-25-018: Circular Materials Eligible Community Recycling Calendars Agreements
The committee approved the financial plan and directed staff to amend the Fees and Charges By‑law to raise water rates by 5% effective July 1 2025 while keeping the wastewater surcharge at 124% of the water rate. It also recommended that Council receive deputations on the 32nd St East watermain replacement and the city rate study for information. Additional recommendations were made to bring forward by‑laws for agreements with Circular Materials and the Product Care Association.
- Approve financial plan and 5% water rate increase, maintain surcharge (Carried)
- Recommend Council receive watermain replacement deputation (Carried)
- Recommend Council receive rate study deputation (Carried)
- Recommend by‑law to authorize Mayor and Clerk to execute Circular Materials agreements for 2025 and 2026 (Carried)
- Recommend by‑law to authorize Mayor and Clerk to execute Product Care Services Agreement (Carried)
Committee - Community Services
The Community Services Committee will consider a proposed regulatory bylaw for extended Derby parking (Derby camping) and its implementation, including draft bylaw text and fine schedules. The committee will also review an agreement with Bluewater District School Board for public use of multi-use courts at OSDSS. Other items include a new community profile, a 2025 events update, and verbal reports on 2024 Community Improvement Plan grants and development activity.
- Report CS-25-036 on extended Derby parking regulatory bylaw and implementation (draft bylaw attached)
- Agreement with Bluewater District School Board for public use of OSDSS multi-use courts
- New Owen Sound Community Profile 2025 (report CM-25-011)
- 2025 Events report (CS-25-039)
- Verbal report on 2024 Community Improvement Plan grants
The committee approved the minutes from the March 19, 2025 meeting and its closed session. It recommended that City Council direct staff to advance the Derby Camping regulatory by‑law, amend related by‑laws and fee schedules, and seek Ministry approval. The committee also approved a recommendation to authorize a five‑year agreement with the Bluewater District School Board for public use of school courts and to consider an $11,500 increase to the Parks and Open Space operating budget. Additional items were recommended for council information, including the new community profile, 2025 events report, and several correspondence items.
- Approved minutes of March 19, 2025 meeting (Carried)
- Approved minutes of March 19, 2025 closed‑session (Carried)
- Recommended Council direct staff to bring forward Derby Camping By‑law and related amendments (Carried)
- Recommended Council authorize 5‑year MOA with Bluewater District School Board for multi‑use courts (Carried)
- Recommended Council consider $11,500 increase to Parks and Open Space operating budget (Carried)
- Recommended Council receive New Owen Sound Community Profile report for information (Carried)
- Recommended Council receive 2025 Events report for information (Carried)
- Recommended Council receive correspondence items 11.a and 11.b for information (Carried)
Council Meeting - Regular
Owen Sound City Council will consider several items including a deputation from the Kiwanis Club requesting a rental fee waiver for its 100th anniversary gala, and a request from Earth Day Grey Bruce for support. Staff reports include an update on the Water Treatment Plant filter upgrade project and a request from the County of Grey for in-principle support of a centralized planning model. The consent agenda includes ratification of a tentative settlement with CUPE Local 1189-01 Outside Workers, a contract extension for Flixbus transit service, and several financial agreements. Council will also vote on multiple by-laws, including a master servicing agreement for a development at 3195 East Bayshore Road.
- Ratification of tentative settlement with CUPE Local 1189-01 Outside Workers
- Water Treatment Plant Filter Upgrade Project update (Report OP-25-014)
- County of Grey request for in-principle support of a centralized planning model
- Extension of Flixbus transit service contract for use of Owen Sound Transit Terminal
- Master Servicing Agreement with Bayshore Street Developments Inc. for 3195 East Bayshore Road
Council approved a $216,850 increase to the Water Treatment Plant filter upgrade budget and authorized contract change orders. It also waived the rental fee for the Kiwanis Club 100th anniversary gala and moved the fee amount to the Facility Bookings account. The council postponed consideration of the County of Grey’s Centralized Planning Model request until the April 28 meeting. Consent agenda items were received and approved, while a motion to attach a police article was defeated.
- Approved $216,850 budget increase for Water Treatment Plant filter upgrade (carried)
- Authorized Manager of Corporate Services to execute contract change orders for the upgrade (carried)
- Waived Harry Lumley Bayshore Centre room rental fee for Kiwanis Club gala and transferred fee to Facility Bookings (carried)
- Postponed review of County of Grey Centralized Planning Model request to April 28, 2025 (carried)
- Received and approved Consent Agenda items 11.a‑11.e (carried)
- Defeated motion to attach police article to agenda (defeated)
- Adopted minutes of March 10, 21, and 24 council meetings (adopted)
- Approved minutes of Community Services and Operations Committee meetings (adopted)
Committee - Corporate Services
The Corporate Services Committee will confirm minutes from two previous meetings and receive two staff reports. A report from the Communications Advisor provides an overview of the City's website analytics. A report from the Manager of Legislative Services covers the 2025 annual update of the policy review project.
- Confirmation of minutes from March 6, 2025 and November 14, 2024 meetings
- Report CM-25-006: Corporate Website Analytics and Overview from Communications Advisor
- Report CR-25-036: Policy Review Project - 2025 Annual Update from Manager of Legislative Services
- Attachments include a policy repeal list and a website analytics presentation
The Corporate Services Committee approved the minutes from the March 6 and November 14, 2024 meetings. It recommended that City Council receive the corporate website analytics report for information. It also recommended that Council direct staff to draft a by‑law to repeal outdated policies identified in the 2025 Policy Review Project. All motions were carried.
- Approved minutes of March 6, 2025 meeting (carried)
- Approved minutes of November 14, 2024 meeting (carried)
- Recommended City Council receive website analytics report for information (carried)
- Recommended City Council direct staff to bring forward a by‑law to repeal certain policies (carried)
Committee - Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc
The Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc Committee will elect a chair and vice‑chair, confirm the February 12 minutes, and consider several staff reports. Items include a review of the Short‑Term Rental licensing program, civil marriage services, a mobile devices policy, an agreement catalogue, and an allocation policy. No deputations or external correspondence are scheduled, and a public forum is provided for resident comments.
- Election of Committee Chair and Vice‑Chair
- Report CR‑25‑035: Review of Short‑Term Rental (STR) Licensing Program
- Report CR‑25‑021: Review of Civil Marriage Services (Project 1a5)
- Report CR‑25‑039: Mobile Devices Policy (Project 2b3)
- Report CR‑25‑032: Develop an Allocation Policy (Project 5a2)
The committee elected Ian Boddy as Chair and Marion Koepke as Vice Chair, and approved the minutes from the February 12 meeting. A motion to adopt a comprehensive Short‑Term Rental by‑law amendment package was defeated 2‑2, while separate motions to add housekeeping amendments, require human‑trafficking information postings, and increase the rental cap to 240 days were carried. The committee also approved a fee increase for after‑hours civil marriage officiants and adopted a by‑law to implement a mobile devices policy.
- Ian Boddy acclaimed as Chair (acclaimed)
- Marion Koepke acclaimed as Vice Chair (acclaimed)
- Minutes of Feb 12, 2025 meeting approved (carried)
- Comprehensive STR by‑law amendment motion defeated (2‑2)
- STR housekeeping amendments motion carried (carried)
- STR human‑trafficking info posting motion carried (carried)
- STR rental‑cap increase to 240 days motion carried (carried)
- Mobile devices policy by‑law motion carried (carried)
Committee - Committee of Adjustment
The Committee of Adjustment will review applications for a minor variance and a lot addition at 859 7th Avenue East. The meeting also includes staff delegated approvals for undisputed consents at two other locations.
- Minor Variance A02-2025 and Consent B02-2025 (Lot Addition) for 859 7th Avenue East
- Staff Delegated Approval B03-2025 for 887-889 2nd Avenue East
- Staff Delegated Approval B04-2025 for 3195 Bayshore Road
The Committee approved the minutes from the February 25 meeting. It approved a minor variance (A02-2025) for 859 7th Avenue East, allowing a reduced frontage of seven metres, subject to Schedule E conditions. It also approved a consent application (B02-2025) for a lot addition at the same property, also subject to Schedule E conditions. No other applications were decided at this meeting.
- Approved February 25, 2025 minutes (Carried)
- Approved minor variance A02-2025 for 859 7th Avenue East (Carried)
- Approved consent B02-2025 for 859 7th Avenue East (Carried)
Council Meeting - Regular
Council will discuss a report on the 2025 multi-residential tax rate reduction, the third phase of a four-year plan. Other business includes approval of a non-standard procurement for tandem axle plow replacements, contract extensions for inter-community transportation (GOST), and several by-laws authorizing agreements for composting site access and hazardous product partnerships. A deputation on the Festival of Northern Lights is also scheduled.
- Report CR-25-027: 2025 Multi-Residential Tax Rate Reduction – third phase of a four-year plan
- Report CR-25-034: Approval of non-standard procurement for tandem axle plow replacements
- By-law 2025-024: Agreement with Meaford and Georgian Bluffs for leaf and yard waste composting site access
- By-law 2025-026: Second amending agreement with Voyago for Inter-Community Transportation (GOST)
- Deputation from Jamie Walpole re: Festival of Northern Lights update
The Council adopted minutes from three prior meetings and moved into a Committee of the Whole. It directed staff to lower the multi‑residential tax ratio to 1.169475 and to bring forward a by‑law for 2025 property taxes. The Council approved a 10‑year replacement schedule and the purchase of two tandem‑axle plows for $834,840. Consent agenda items and several committee minutes were approved.
- Adopted minutes of three prior meetings (Carried)
- Moved Council into Committee of the Whole (Carried)
- Directed staff to reduce multi‑residential tax ratio to 1.169475 and bring forward by‑law (Carried)
- Approved 10‑year replacement schedule for tandem‑axle plows (Carried)
- Approved purchase of two International tandem‑axle plows for $834,840 (Carried)
- Approved items on Consent Agenda (items 11.a‑11.c) (Carried)
- Approved Corporate Services Committee minutes, except Item 10.b.1 (Carried)
- Approved Item 10.b.1 recommendation (Carried)
Committee - Operations
The Operations Committee will discuss a motion directing staff to report on options and costs for a snow windrow clearing program for seniors and people with disabilities. Also on the agenda are a presentation on 9th Avenue East rehabilitation, a staff report on 2025-2026 road rehabilitation locations, and a review of 2024 collision statistics. Staff will present annual wastewater system reports and a drinking water quality audit.
- Motion from Councillor Merton to explore a snow windrow clearing program for older adults and those with physical disabilities
- Deputation from Tatham Engineering on 9th Avenue East Rehabilitation (Superior Street to 6th Street East)
- Report OP-25-006 on 2025-2026 road rehabilitation locations with maps
- Report OP-25-011 on 2024 collision statistics from police
- Correspondence from City of Toronto requesting expressions of interest for residual waste services
The Operations Committee approved the minutes from the February 20, 2025 meeting. It recommended that City Council receive several staff reports for information, including the 2025‑2026 road rehabilitation locations, 2024 collision statistics, the 2024 annual wastewater reports, and the DWQMS audit. The committee also recommended that City Council receive a request for expression of interest on residual waste from Toronto. Finally, the committee passed a resolution directing staff to prepare a report within three months on options and costs for a snow windrow clearing program for seniors and people with disabilities, with a vote of five in favour and two opposed.
- Approved minutes of February 20, 2025 Operations Committee meeting (carried)
- Recommended City Council receive REOI on residual waste from Toronto (carried)
- Recommended City Council receive 2025‑2026 Road Rehabilitation Locations report (carried)
- Recommended City Council receive 2024 Collision Statistics report (carried)
- Recommended City Council receive 2024 Annual Wastewater Reports (carried)
- Recommended City Council receive DWQMS Audit Report (carried)
- Resolved City Council to request staff report on snow windrow clearing program options and cost within three months (5‑2 vote)
- Acknowledged King Charles III’s Coronation Medal awarded to Member Anderson (not a formal decision)
Committee - Community Services
The Community Services Committee will hear presentations on Grey County's annual report and a Georgian College student arena partnership. Staff reports include a proposed one-year extension for CWHC use of the former CN train station, a request by the Owen Sound Agricultural Society to build a new structure, a draft contribution agreement for a playground and splashpad at Kelso Beach at Nawash Park, and funding allocation for a replacement mural at 851 2nd Avenue East. The committee will also move into closed session to discuss nominations for Volunteer of the Year, Senior of the Year, and Youth Volunteer of the Year.
- Proposed one-year extension for CWHC use of the former CN Train Station
- Owen Sound Agricultural Society request to construct new building under lease with city
- Draft contribution agreement for playground and splashpad at Kelso Beach at Nawash Park
- Replacement mural at 851 2nd Avenue East and city funding from reserve
- Site plan approvals for Royal Rose Court (1259 3rd Ave E), parking lot (1399 2nd Ave E), 241-261 9th St W, and 1000 5th Ave E
The Community Services Committee approved the February 19 minutes and recommended that City Council bring forward a by‑law to authorize the Mayor and Clerk to execute the draft contribution agreement for a new playground and splashpad at Kelso Beach. It also recommended a one‑year extension for the former CN building use, approved the Owen Sound Agricultural Society building request with a new lease by‑law, and allocated up to $7,500 for a replacement mural while directing a new mural policy. The committee waived notice for an urgent flag‑policy discussion, asked for an updated policy presentation, and cancelled the 2025 Arts and Cultural Awards ceremony.
- Approved minutes of February 19 meeting (Carried)
- Recommended council bring forward by‑law to authorize mayor & clerk to execute playground & splashpad contribution agreement (Carried)
- Recommended council bring forward by‑law for one‑year extension of CWHC use of former CN building (Carried)
- Recommended council approve OSAS building request and bring forward by‑law for amended lease (Carried)
- Allocated up to $7,500 from River District Reserve for replacement mural and directed creation of mural policy (Carried)
- Waived notice requirement to discuss urgent Policy CE002 matter (Carried by 2/3)
- Recommended council have city manager present updated Policy CE002 (Carried)
- Cancelled 2025 Arts and Cultural Awards ceremony (Carried)
Board - River District
The River District Board of Management will receive presentations on 2025 Art Gallery and tourism highlights, and the Owen Sound Police Service's CamSafe program. A postponed report on the 2025 Events, Activations and Promotions Plan includes a motion to appoint board members to a working group. Reports also cover the 2025 board training and work plan, and an update on River District Block Captains.
- Motion to appoint board members to Membership Event working group for 2025 Events, Activations and Promotions Plan
- Presentation from Director & Chief Curator on 2025 Art Gallery, Tourism and Events Highlights
- Presentation from Owen Sound Police Service on CamSafe Program
- Report CS-25-024 on 2025 Board Training and Work Plan
- Final approvals for business licences: Little Treasures (908 2nd Ave E) and Ultimate Drivers Owen Sound (902 2nd Ave E)
Council Meeting - Regular
Owen Sound City Council will consider a by-law to authorize the Mayor and Clerk to execute a design and build construction agreement with CIMCO Refrigeration for the Bayshore Community Centre arena floor and boards replacements. The meeting will also confirm previous council minutes and approve final business licence and flag flying requests.
- By-law authorizing agreement with CIMCO Refrigeration for Bayshore Community Centre arena floor and boards replacements
- By-law to authorize lease agreement with the Government of Canada for the City's Inner Harbour
- Final approvals for cannabis dispensary at 2125 16th Street East
- Final approvals for convenience store relocation at 1339 2nd Avenue East
- Report on proposed funding agreement with Grey Sauble Conservation Authority
Committee - Corporate Services
The committee will elect a Chair and Vice Chair and review several annual reports from 2024. Members will also discuss the 2025 workplans for corporate services and community engagement for the 2025 Asset Management Plan.
- Election of Committee Chair and Vice Chair
- Review of awarded tenders and proposals between $50,000 and $249,000 from July 1 to December 31, 2024
- 2024 Fire and Emergency Services Annual Report
- 2024 Year End financial report including debt balances and reserve fund balances
- Climate Action Strategy Annual Report
Council Meeting - Special
City Council is holding a special meeting to consider a matter regarding labour relations and employee negotiations. The meeting includes a closed session for collective bargaining and the confirmation of proceedings via by-law.
- Closed session regarding labour relations and employee negotiations for collective bargaining
- By-law No. 2025-019 to confirm proceedings of the March 3, 2025 Special Meeting
Committee - Committee of Adjustment
The Committee of Adjustment will meet to review a minor variance application for a property at 1170 2nd Avenue East. The body will also confirm minutes from December 2024 and January 2025.
- Minor Variance application File No. A04-2025 for 1170 2nd Avenue East (Westburne Electrical Inc)
Council Meeting - Regular
Council will decide on a zoning by-law amendment to allow a Hampton Inn at 1750 16th Avenue East, consider purchasing land at 2506 3rd Avenue East, and discuss a motion to study a snow windrow clearing program for seniors. It will also adopt the 2025 budget estimates and extend a banking agreement with RBC.
- Zoning By-law Amendment (ZBA No. 54) for Hampton Inn at 1750 16th Avenue East
- Acquisition of lands by the City at 2506 3rd Avenue East (By-law 2025-017)
- Motion to study a snow windrow clearing program for older adults/seniors
- Adoption of 2025 general and capital budget estimates (By-law 2025-015)
- Extension of banking services agreement with Royal Bank of Canada (By-law 2025-016)
Committee - Operations
The committee will receive a report and presentation of the 2025 work plans for Public Works, Engineering, Water and Wastewater, Environmental Services, Roads, and Water Treatment. Staff reports include charge rates for hazardous waste and leaf/yard waste sites, a quarterly transit dashboard, and the 2024 annual water and wastewater management reviews. No motions or decisions are listed on the agenda.
- Presentation of 2025 work plans for Public Works and related departments (OP-25-009)
- Report on Household Hazardous Waste and Leaf/Yard Waste Site Charge Rates (OP-25-007)
- Quarterly Transit Dashboard report (OS Transit Dashboard 2024 Final)
- 2024 Annual Water Report (OP-25-004)
- 2024 Annual Management Review for Water and Wastewater (OP-25-003)
Committee - Community Services
The Community Services Committee is reviewing 2025 work plans and a proposal for extended parking along the harbour during annual fishing derbies. The meeting includes public input regarding the pedestrianization of 2nd Avenue East and a presentation on forest schools.
- Proposal for extended parking along the harbour during annual fishing derbies (Report CS-25-006)
- Deputation regarding the pedestrianization of 2nd Avenue East
- 2025 Community Services Work Plans and Committee Mandate (Report CS-25-017)
- Deputation from Carlin Val regarding At Last Forest Schools
- Election of Committee Chair and Vice Chair
Committee - Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc
The Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc Committee will discuss four staff reports: a Year 2 update on the overall service review, a proposal to investigate cloud-based digital timecoding, the formation of a joint municipal services committee at Grey County, and an agreement development toolkit. No deputations, correspondence, or motions are on the agenda.
- Report CM-25-005: Service Review Overview and Update - Year 2 from the City Manager
- Report CR-25-014: Investigate cloud-based solutions for a digital timecoding solution
- Report CM-25-007: Formation of a Joint Municipal Services Committee at Grey County
- Report CR-25-016: Agreement Development Toolkit from Manager of Legislative Services
Committee - Strategic Planning Ad Hoc
The Strategic Planning Ad Hoc Committee will meet to discuss a staff report regarding the Vision 2050 February 2025 update. The committee will also consider the confirmation of minutes from the November 13, 2024 meeting.
- Report CM-25-008: Vision 2050 - February 2025 Update
- Confirmation of November 13, 2024 meeting minutes
Council Meeting - Regular
Council will decide on the 2025 municipal levy and budget approval, consider a banking services agreement extension, and discuss a motion to establish enforceable quality standards for consultant reports. No public meetings or closed session are scheduled.
- 2025 Municipal Levy approval (Report CR-25-20)
- Banking Services Agreement Extension (Report CR-25-010)
- Community Services Committee minutes for approval
- Motion for enforceable standards for consultant reports
- Receipt of minutes from Grey Sauble Conservation Authority and Owen Sound Police Services Board
Committee - Corporate Services
The committee will elect a Chair and Vice Chair and review staff reports regarding 2025 workplans. The meeting includes reviews of the Climate Action Strategy and Fire and Emergency Services annual reports.
- Election of Committee Chair and Vice Chair
- Review of 2025 Workplans for Corporate Services staff (Report CR-25-019)
- Summary of awarded tenders and proposals between $50,000 and $249,000 from July 1 to December 31, 2024 (Report CR-25-018)
- Climate Action Strategy Annual Report (Report CR-25-017)
- 2024 Fire and Emergency Services Annual Report (Report CR-25-001)
Committee - Tom Thomson Art Gallery Advisory
The committee will elect a Chair and Vice Chair and review department workplans for 2025. Members will also receive updates on gallery highlights from 2024 and reports from various gallery teams.
- Election of Committee Chair and Vice Chair
- Report AG-25-001: 2025 Committee Introduction and Department Workplans
- Report AG-25-002: February Update Report
- Report AG-25-003: Art Gallery Teams and Terms of Reference for Collection, Expansion, and Fundraising teams
- Update reports from the Fundraising and Art Collection teams
Committee - Committee of Adjustment
The Committee of Adjustment is deciding on two applications: a minor variance and consent for 1010 6th Avenue West, and a minor variance for 2261 9th Avenue East. The public may attend in person or provide written comments by 12:00 p.m. on meeting day.
- Minor Variance A01-2025 and Consent B01-2025 for 1010 6th Avenue West
- Minor Variance A03-2025 for 2261 9th Avenue East (Hedera)
Council Meeting - Regular
City Council will hold public meetings regarding the 2025 Budget and a zoning amendment for a hotel development. The body will also consider reports on infrastructure replacements and procurement for city facilities.
- Public meeting for Zoning By-law Amendment No. 54 regarding hotel development at 1750 16th Avenue East
- Public meeting and intention to pass the 2025 Budget
- Sanitary sewer replacement on 16th Avenue East from 17th Street East to 20th Street East
- Non-standard procurement for Bayshore Arena floor and boards replacement
- Non-standard procurement for Water Distribution Storage Building construction
Committee - Community Services
The Community Services Committee will hear a deputation regarding partnership opportunities with the Summerfolk Music and Crafts Festival. The body will also review the 2024 Tourism Year-End report and a December 2024 development update.
- Request for $10,000 grant for Summerfolk Music and Crafts Festival
- Request for waiver of rental fees for Kelso Beach at Nawash Park
- Report CS-25-001: 2024 Tourism Year-End
- December 2024 Development Update from the Chief Building Official
Council Meeting - Regular
The Owen Sound City Council will adopt several by-laws, including an interim levy for all property classes in 2025. Other by-laws will authorize a fire protection grant, a façade and structural improvement grant, a servicing agreement for a property on 1st Avenue West, and a reduction of the youth non‑resident lacrosse fee. The council will also receive reports on land‑use agreements for the East Side Snowmobile Club and Stoney Keppel Riders, and consider moving to a closed session for specific matters.
- By‑law No. 2025‑002 – interim levy for the year 2025 for all property classes
- By‑law No. 2025‑003 – authorize a Transfer Payment Agreement for the Fire Protection Grant
- By‑law No. 2025‑005 – reduce the youth non‑resident fee for lacrosse for 2025
- By‑law No. 2025‑006 – authorize a façade and structural improvement grant for 945 2nd Avenue East
- By‑law No. 2025‑007 – authorize a Servicing Agreement with Hansa Financial & Property Management Inc. for 1144 1st Avenue West
Board - River District
The River District Board of Management will move into closed session to consider appointments to the board. The board will receive a verbal police update, review a 2024 year-end events report, and consider the 2025 events, activations, and promotions plan. A memorandum on the 2025 budget and a report on director appointments are also on the agenda. Additionally, a business licence for Haven & Brew at 158 9th Street East is noted for final approval.
- Closed session to discuss personal matters regarding appointments to the River District Board of Management
- Verbal report from Owen Sound Police Service on police update
- Report CR-25-005 on director appointments to the River District Board of Management
- Report CS-25-003 on 2025 Events, Activations and Promotions Plan
- Memorandum from Deputy Clerk on River District 2025 Budget