LAURIE WEIR

From a major road overhaul and free youth sports, to leaf pick-up and internet policy, Perth council covered a lot of ground at its April 8 meeting. Here’s a look at the highlights:

Craig Street overhaul set for 2025

Council has approved a $3.29-million reconstruction of Craig Street, stretching from Gore Street East to Cole Road. Taggart Construction Limited will handle the work, which includes full road resurfacing and underground infrastructure upgrades. Construction is expected to begin later this year and falls well within the town’s $5.2-million capital budget. The town’s “Engage Perth” portal will provide project updates. And yes — the Perth Kilt Run is still a go, even with construction. Organizers will be crossing the zone on Saturday, June 21.

No more plastic bags: New leaf pick-up contract signed

Perth has signed a three-year deal with Emterra Environmental to handle curbside leaf collection — worth just under $21,000 (excluding HST). There’s also an option for a fourth year. Only paper yard waste bags or reusable containers will be accepted going forward. Plastic bags are out — a move aimed at worker safety and reducing environmental impact. Emterra was the sole bidder and will supply a compactor truck and operator to cover all municipal roads.

Cogeco calls for council’s support on internet regulation

Cogeco is asking Perth to oppose a potential CRTC decision that would force smaller internet providers to open their infrastructure to Canada’s telecom giants. The company says this would reduce competition and hurt local service. Council has been asked to submit a letter to the CRTC supporting independent internet providers.

Council backs indie bookstores in federal tariff fight

Council has agreed to support local booksellers opposing a proposed 25 per cent federal tariff on U.S.-printed books. Leslie Wallack, owner of The Book Nook and Other Treasures, warned council that the tariff could drive up costs for small retailers and push readers toward Amazon. The town will write to the Department of Finance, asking for an exemption for books.

New 3-year tree services contract awarded

Tim Allen’s Tree Services has been awarded a three-year contract for municipal tree maintenance after a competitive bidding process. The deal covers trimming, removals, stump grinding, and arborist assessments. The town’s 2025 budget allocates $35,000 for response-based tree work.

Water system earns 98.25% on surprise inspection

Perth’s drinking water system scored 98.25% in a surprise inspection by the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks in January. The report confirms that water in Perth and Tay Valley is safe and meets all provincial standards. Inspectors did note three administrative issues — late paperwork, outdated system maps, and incomplete pre-approval forms for watermain work. None impacted water quality, and staff say all issues were addressed through updated procedures and training. “These are the folks in the field, making sure safe water comes out of the taps every day,” said Environmental Services Director Grant Machan, praising the operators and council’s support.

$19K grant to boost free youth sports

A new partnership between the Town of Perth and the Perth FireDawgs will fund free youth sports programs, thanks to a $19,150 grant from the Perth and District Community Foundation. Council passed a bylaw to formalize the agreement, which will support programs like swimming, skating, hockey, and golf. “This grant really helps us do more projects in town,” said fire Chief Trevor Choffe. He noted that the FireDawgs took over the annual golf tournament from the former Perth Police Service, developing it into a key fundraiser for youth recreation.

Farmers’ market gets green light through 2027

Council has renewed the Perth Farmers’ Market’s use of the Crystal Palace and Tay Basin parking lot through 2027. The deal includes extended dates for the Harvest and Christmas markets, plus an option for a mid-week event. Fees start at $1,000 in the first year, with annual CPI-based increases.

Perth writes off $124K in unpaid court fines

Perth council has approved the write-off of $124,549.14 in unpaid Provincial Offences Act fines across Lanark County’s eight municipalities. Most are tied to deceased individuals. The write-off, required by provincial policy, also includes a few underpaid administrative fees. It will have no effect on the town’s budget.