December 8, 2025

The Township of South Glengarry’s December 8, 2025 council meeting focused on infrastructure agreements, subdivision development, planning bylaw modernization, community facility partnerships, trail safety, and the future of winter snow clearing for private laneways. The agenda reflected council’s ongoing effort to balance legislative compliance, community service expectations, and fiscal responsibility.

Seasonal Proclamation Celebrates Holiday Spirit

Council opened the meeting with a festive proclamation officially clearing the township’s airspace on the night of December 24–25 to allow Santa and his reindeer safe passage. A special low-altitude flight permit was symbolically approved, reinforcing the Township’s commitment to community tradition and holiday goodwill.

Infrastructure Agreement Advances Concession 10 Extension

Council approved an agreement to extend Concession 10 Road by up to 40 metres past the west property line to provide access to a landlocked parcel. All upgrade costs will be borne by the property owner, with Township staff authorized to execute the necessary documents. The decision supports fair access to private land while protecting municipal financial interests.

Subdivision Development Moves Forward on Lorett Drive

Council recommended draft plan approval to the United Counties for the Riverview North subdivision, a 24-lot residential development off Lorett Drive. The revised submission reflects strengthened planning conditions in response to legislative changes since the original 2020 application, demonstrating a more rigorous modern development review process.

Planning Bylaws Updated for Legislative Alignment

Council approved several planning-related bylaws aimed at improving efficiency and alignment with provincial planning standards:

• Committee of Adjustment Bylaw (202569) appointed members for 2026.

• Site Plan Control Bylaw (202570) reduced regulatory burden on smaller residential developments.

• Grading and Drainage Bylaw (202571) updated drainage standards for properties under one acre and eased restrictions on some accessory structures.

• Engineering Design Standards (Information Report) introduced a coordinated, six-municipality reference standard for subdivision and site plan design.

Council acknowledged that these updates reflect a proactive legislative compliance strategy designed to reduce redundancy while maintaining development standards.

Community Use Agreement Formalized in Martintown

Council approved a new five-year agreement with the Martintown and District Good Timers for continued use of the Martintown Community Centre. The agreement establishes clear roles, responsibilities, and fee structures while ensuring the continuation of valuable community programming.

Peanut Line Trail Speed Limits Enhance Public Safety

Council enacted new speed limits along the Peanut Line Trail, setting:

• 50 km/h on general trail sections

• 20 km/h in settlement areas and over bridges

Positive community feedback was noted, and signage costs are expected to be minimal.

Private Laneway Snow Clearing Policy Sparks Key Discussion

Council addressed the discontinuation of courtesy winter snow clearing on some private laneways, including the private laneway serving St. John Anglican Church at 20788 South Service Road. The service had existed historically without formal documentation, raising concerns about fairness, liability, and precedent.

After discussion, Council directed administration to continue snow clearing for this specific laneway for the 2025–2026 winter season only, while requiring a comprehensive review and policy report before the 2026–2027 season. This approach allows time for evaluation while maintaining short-term community access.

County and Conservation Authority Budget Updates

Council received updates on the 2026 United Counties budget, totaling $78.2 million in gross expenditures, with a 4.48% residential tax increase, a growing police services budget, and bridge rehabilitation funding.

Council also reviewed the Conservation Authority budget, reflecting a modest operating cost increase for South Glengarry and expanded capital projects supported by grant applications for environmental restoration and community programs. The transition following conservation authority amalgamation continues to shape regional governance.

Closed Session and Meeting Adjournment

Council entered closed session to discuss litigation-related matters and returned without reporting further details. A confirming bylaw was adopted to ratify decisions, and the meeting adjourned at 8:12 p.m. with seasonal greetings extended.

Overall Takeaway

The December 8 meeting highlighted South Glengarry’s commitment to proactive legislative compliance, balanced community service delivery, and collaborative regional governance. Council demonstrated fiscal responsibility through careful infrastructure planning and budget awareness while addressing community expectations with a measured, policy-driven approach. From development approvals to winter service decisions, the meeting reflected a municipality focused on clarity, fairness, and long-term sustainability.

For the complete video of the meeting, click HERE.

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