SUBMITTED
The first Council meeting of 2025 opened last night with a delegation from Gabriella Salera and Kate Monahan with Local Immigration Partnership – Lanark & Renfrew on the creation of a municipal inclusion charter with the Municipality. This charter would promote and integrate more immigrant services, set a standard for inclusive governance and foster a welcoming environment for all residents. View the presentation here.
Council approved amendments to the 2025 Capital and Operating Budget, reflecting a 5.5% municipal tax rate increase. Formal adoption of the budget will take place at the January 28 Council meeting.
By-laws establishing water and sewer services rates, temporary borrowing and the interim tax levy for 2025 were passed by Council.
Council proclaimed January as Alzheimer’s Awareness Month in Mississippi Mills. This year’s theme focuses on brain health and the Alzheimer Society Lanark Leeds and Grenville are spreading awareness of dementia and brain health through training sessions and initiatives. Small steps today can make a positive different in brain health tomorrow. To recognize the month, Council also endorsed the illumination of the falls and Almonte Old Town Hall in blue for the remainder of the month.
Committee of the Whole also heard the following items, which will be brought forward for approval at a future Council meeting:
- A financial planning timeline for four projects to complete in 2025 as part of the MM2048 initiative – Asset Management Plan, Development Charges Background Study, Water and Wastewater Rate Study and Long Term Financial Plan.
- Quarterly Reports from the Clerks Department and Childcare Services.
Upcoming Meetings:
- Hybrid Council Meeting – January 28, 2025, 6 p.m. Committee of the Whole meeting to follow Council.
- Hybrid Council Meeting – February 11, 2025, 6 p.m. Committee of the Whole meeting to follow Council.