Southgate Council Votes to Join Grey County Hybrid Planning Model
Southgate council voted 5-1 on July 2 to opt into the Grey County Hybrid Planning Model, a shift that will change how municipal planning services are delivered starting January 1, 2027. The decision was the most consequential item on a busy agenda that also saw council approve a $97,349 culvert supply contract, fund a library HVAC replacement, and direct staff to explore a public corporation model for water and wastewater services.
Council opts into county planning model
The hybrid model, offered by Grey County, will take effect Jan. 1, 2027. Under the arrangement, the county will take on a greater role in processing planning applications and related services. Council approved the move on a 5-1 vote. The dissenting vote was not identified in the minutes.
Infrastructure and facility contracts
Council awarded a $97,349 tender for culvert supply to Carson Supply. The contract covers materials for upcoming road projects.
An $18,839 replacement of the library’s HVAC system was approved, with funding drawn from municipal reserves.
Council also authorized the release of a request for tender (RFT) for architectural and engineering services related to upgrades at the Keppel Street facilities. The scope of the work was not detailed in the agenda.
Policy and by-law updates
Updates to the municipality’s hiring policy (Policy #8) were approved. Council also granted two by-law exemptions:
- A fireworks by-law exemption for an event on Sept. 5-6.
- A noise by-law exemption for a residential event on Aug. 8-9.
Exploration of water and wastewater public corporation
Staff were directed to explore the feasibility of creating a public corporation to handle water and wastewater services. No timeline or further details were provided in the agenda minutes.
Committee of Adjustment approves land severance
On June 24, the Committee of Adjustment unanimously approved consent file B2-26 for Philip Holst, severing a lot at 244341 Southgate Road 24. The approval is subject to eight conditions, including payment of a $3,650 parkland dedication fee, road widening, and compliance with zoning requirements. The committee received no public comments on the application.
Coming up
No upcoming meetings are scheduled in the next two weeks. Residents are encouraged to check the municipal website for future agendas and notices.