CARLETON PLACE — At its Feb. 17 committee of the whole meeting, Carleton Place council received the 2025 fourth-quarter activity report from Fire and Municipal Law Enforcement, rejected a brownfield grant request under the town’s Community Improvement Plan, authorized a new Ontario Trillium Foundation grant application for an arena elevator, approved a recreation fundraising reserve policy, recommended a new film policy and fast-tracked refurbishment of the town’s backup Zamboni.
Council receives Q4 fire and bylaw enforcement report
Carleton Place council received the 2025 fourth-quarter activity report from the Fire Department and Municipal Law Enforcement. Fire Chief Dave Joy was unable to attend, but the report was received for information.
The fire department focused on public education through Fire Prevention Week, Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week and its 12 Days of Holiday Fire Safety campaign. Several members earned NFPA certifications, including Firefighter II, Officer I, Public Information Officer and Instructor II. Connor Hill joined the department, while Megan Cullen and Cory Monette marked five years of service.
Municipal Law Enforcement reported strong compliance with winter parking regulations. Emergency Management staff also conducted an earthquake tabletop exercise, completed IMS 300 training and filed annual compliance documentation.
Carleton Place council rejects brownfield grant request
Council agreed with staff in rejecting a funding request under the town’s Community Improvement Plan Brownfield Redevelopment Program.
The Community Improvement Plan was adopted in 2022 and includes 14 incentive programs related to accessibility, affordable housing, brownfield redevelopment and façade improvements. In 2023, council approved funding for select accessibility, affordable housing and façade programs but did not allocate funding for brownfield initiatives.
McArthur Island Developments, owner of 150 Mill St., requested up to $48,450 in rebates for environmental and site studies related to future redevelopment phases. Staff determined the proposed studies did not qualify as a Phase II Environmental Site Assessment or Remedial Action Plan under provincial legislation. The applicant also did not demonstrate efforts to secure alternative funding sources. No brownfield funding is included in the 2026 budget.
“While we may not be able to do this this time, I would encourage staff to coax the next council, going through its budget process, to maybe offer some funding to flesh this out because it is a significant cost. We’re kind of punching ourselves in the nose by not funding brownfield cleanup sites,” said Coun. Jeff Atkinson.
Town seeks $200,000 Trillium grant for arena elevator
Council authorized staff to apply for a $200,000 Ontario Trillium Foundation Capital Grant to support replacement of the arena elevator.
The total project cost is estimated at $285,000, leaving the town responsible for $85,000 if the grant is approved. Project and property manager Ross Rankin said the existing elevator is at end of life, does not meet Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act standards and cannot be replaced in its current location due to space constraints.
“It’s not the first time we’ve been here talking about this elevator. We really need to get this fixed. We need a new elevator,” said Coun. Dena Comley.
Previous applications to the federal Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program and the Ontario Trillium Foundation were unsuccessful, though staff were encouraged to reapply following positive feedback. The next application deadline is March 4, 2026.
The proposed elevator would be located on the first floor near the canteen, with access to the second floor hallway between the Arena Upper Hall and Bob Rintoul Hall.
If grant funding is not secured, Rankin said staff would return to council to request funding be set aside in the 2027 budget.
“It takes a little while to order the actual elevator component, but it would be identified in the 2027 budget,” Rankin said.
Council approves recreation fundraising reserve policy
Council approved a new policy to guide the use of the Recreation Fundraising Reserve following a presentation by Recreation and Culture Manager Joanne Henderson.
Staff were directed to establish clear guidelines outlining eligible uses for reserve funds and a timeline for spending. Since 1994, staff have raised funds through activities such as dances, hockey tournaments and concerts, supporting projects including arena seating and upgrades to the Town Hall auditorium.
“I’d like to take a moment to say that we’re very lucky to have staff who are willing to spend their free time raising money for worthy things happening in our communities,” said Coun. Sarah Cavanagh.
Under the new policy, funds must be used for enhancements to existing assets, new equipment or Recreation and Culture projects that benefit the community. All funds must be spent by Dec. 31, 2028. Use of the reserve may reduce taxpayer costs but could result in future maintenance expenses.
Carelton Place council backs new film policy
Council is recommending approval of a new film policy to manage the increasing number of film and television productions in Carleton Place.
Most productions film in town for two to three days, though a recent project lasted three weeks. Staff developed the policy to establish consistent standards for commercial filming on public and private property.
The town cited direct and indirect economic benefits as a key factor. Input from council and the Downtown BIA was incorporated, including provisions related to Bridge Street parking and BIA approval prior to permit issuance.
Proposed fees include a $250 filming permit, parking charges and a $1,000 security deposit, with additional rental fees where applicable.
“I was concerned when I initially heard this was coming that it was going to be a money grab and red tape. It is not that. It’s a policy based on fairness, and I think it will work well in the town,” said Atkinson.
Council fast-tracks Zamboni refurbishment
Council recommended fast-tracking refurbishment of the town’s backup propane-powered Zamboni at a maximum cost of $65,000 after the machine’s engine failed.
According to Henderson, the backup Zamboni is used when the town’s electric Zamboni is unavailable.
“At this point in time, we’re left with only one operating Zamboni,” Henderson told the committee.
Without a backup, user groups could be affected and the town could face revenue losses. Staff reviewed options with fleet and service managers, including purchasing a new propane Zamboni for $125,000 with delivery in 2027, or refurbishing the existing unit. The refurbishment includes warranties and is expected to be completed by April 30, 2026.
The expense is not included in the 2026 budget and would be funded through year-end surplus or the Asset Management Reserve.
Due to the time-sensitive nature of the issue, staff requested permission to proceed prior to final council approval.
“I would propose that we give staff direction to suspend procedural bylaw and move ahead with the refurbishment and get this fixed as quickly as possible,” said Deputy Mayor Andrew Tennant. The motion passed unanimously.
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