Cornwall council weighs water rate plans, Sunday transit; police board eyes new chief, Axon contract
Cornwall city council and the police board held meetings last week with a range of items on their agendas, from water rate funding options to a new police chief. Minutes have not yet been published, so outcomes of votes are not yet available.
Council considers water rate scenarios, Sunday transit
At its June 22 regular meeting, council reviewed two funding scenarios for the 2027 water rate budget: an accelerated 10-year plan or a phased 20-year approach. The item appeared on the agenda as a decision point.
Council also looked at cancelling the septage receiving station design and construction project, with the funds to be returned to reserves. Another item directed staff to implement Sunday transit service, running from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. with hourly service.
A petition requesting a crosswalk on Second Street West was referred to the Road Safety Master Plan for further study, and council considered approving a temporary closure of Pitt Street on Oct. 17 for a United Way event.
Police board swears in new chief, reviews contracts
The Cornwall Police Service Board met June 25. The agenda included the swearing-in of Hugh Stevenson as Chief Designate. The board also considered approval of a $172,489.98 annual invoice from Axon Public Safety Canada Inc.
Other items on the board's agenda were the appointments of Meg Sommerville and Michael Green as special constables (community safety officers), along with receipt of the 2026 Use of Force Training Audit report and the 2025-2026 RIDE Grant Report.
Closed session on land, HR set for July 6
Council will hold a special closed meeting July 6 to discuss a proposed land acquisition and an HR update, both under exemptions in the Municipal Act. The open portion of the meeting is limited to adopting the agenda and, if needed, a by-law to authorize an agreement.
July 13 regular council meeting is procedural only
The regular council meeting scheduled for July 13 contains no substantive items for discussion or decision, according to the published agenda.
Coming up
- **July 6, 2026** – Special Meeting of Council (closed session). Open portion includes adopting agenda and authorizing by-law.
- **July 13, 2026** – Regular Meeting of Council (procedural only). No substantive items on the agenda.
Both meetings will be held at city hall. Agendas and any subsequent minutes are available on the city's website.