SUBMITTED
Council heard a delegation from Micheline Dumont and Emily Arbour with the Destination Almonte Association (DAA) to open last night’s meeting. They provided an update on activities. The DAA is made up of a group of business owners who support and promote local businesses in the Almonte area to create an attractive tourist destination. Led by a board of directors, the DAA currently sponsors and hosts events, as well as organizes seasonal night markets and other projects, but are looking to boost future opportunities and activities. Council received their report as information and directed staff bring back a report to a future Council meeting. View the presentation here.
Stephen Brathwaite and Ed Lawrence shared information with Council on future Almonte Alameda projects during a delegation. One of the proposed projects is the Dungarvon Folly, an installation along the alameda using stone taken from the Dungarvon building at 38 Main Street East. Brathwaite sought approval of the location for the folly and support for several other projects including a memorial bench, children’s art installation and retaining wall and planting. Council received the presentation as information and directed staff to bring back a report to ensure the project is endorsed by Lanark County (as the owners of the Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail) and to explore future community engagement. View the presentation here.
A public meeting was held regarding the zoning bylaw amendment and draft plan of subdivision for Phase 7 and 8 of the Mill Run subdivision, which proposes a 125-unit extension with 47 detached homes, 18 semi-detached homes and 60 townhomes at the end of Sadler Drive. This matter will come before Council for discussion at a future meeting.
Council approved the MM2048 Community Engagement Strategy for 2025, which includes public engagement opportunities on the Economic Development Master Plan, Community Services Master Plan, childcare expansion project, Long Term Financial Plan, Public Realm Study for downtown Almonte, Development Charges, Municipal Space Needs Assessment, Asset Management Plan and more. The first engagement opportunity is at the MM2048 Public Information Centre on April 30 from 2-8 p.m. at the John Levi Community Centre in Almonte.
The 2024 Freedom of Information (FOI) summary was also approved. A requirement under the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA), an annual report must be submitted to the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario. Last year, the Municipality received three new requests for general records (two were completed and one abandoned).
Council proclaimed April 2, 2025 as World Autism Day in the Municipality of Mississippi Mills. According to Autism Ontario, autism impacts more than 135,000 people in Ontario (1 in every 50 Canadian children and youth). World Autism Day raises awareness, provides support and promotes a more inclusive society.
The 2025 Mississippi Mills Water Treatment Annual Report was received as information. Completed by the Ontario Clean Water Agency, which operates the Mississippi Mills Drinking Water System, the report inspects the 5 drilled wells in Almonte, monitors flows, samples and maintenance. The drinking water system was recertified in 2024.
Council passed a bylaw to adopt the 2025 tax rates. The municipal budget levy requirement for the Municipality in 2025 is $12,481,097 and the municipal policing levy amount is $2,021,564.
During the announcements and invitations portion of the meeting, Mayor Christa Lowry congratulated Mississippi Mills residents Clive Addy, Dr. Robert Dent and Jeff Mills on receiving the King Charles III Coronation Medal. Medals were presented during a March 15 ceremony in Carleton Place, attended by Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston MP Scott Reid and MPP John Jordan. The King Charles III Coronation Medal recognizes individuals who have made important contributions to their community, the province and Canada.
Committee of the Whole also heard the following items, which will be brought forward for approval at a future Council meeting:
- A zoning bylaw amendment for 2017 12th Concession South Pakenham.
- Investigating the option of industrial, commercial and institutional (IC&I) curbside recycling continuing beyond the current contract.
- A pilot program making six short-term parking spaces available on Little Bridge Street.
- Updates to the illumination bylaw and design guidelines.
- Approval of the revised draft Delegation of Authority By-law, which delegates certain powers to designated staff.
Upcoming Meetings:
- Hybrid Council Meeting – April 8, 2025, 6 p.m. Committee of the Whole meeting to follow Council.
- Hybrid Council Meeting – April 29, 2025, 6 p.m. Committee of the Whole meeting to follow Council.
