Council Highlights - August 13, 2024

Future in Motion: Elgin County’s Transportation Master Plan Resumes with Updated Scope and Budget

The Elgin County Transportation Master Plan (TMP), initially started in March 2021, is set to resume after being paused in summer 2022 due to major regional developments. Significant progress was made prior to the pause, but recent changes in local growth and development necessitate updates to the plan.

The Director of Engineering Services has recommended approving a Scope Change Order from Arcadis Professional Services (Canada) Inc. for an additional $109,641 (plus HST) to update the TMP with the latest data and projections. The project, originally budgeted at $234,826, will now require an additional $75,000, which will be included in the 2025 Capital Budget. The updated TMP will address new growth impacts and prepare Elgin County for future development, with completion expected by July 2025.

The updated plan will include revisions based on the latest population projections, transportation network needs, and regional growth. By integrating new data and stakeholder input, the TMP will guide Elgin County’s transportation infrastructure development, ensuring it meets the needs of the community well into the future.

Business Retention and Expansion Program: Final Report and Action Plan Endorsed

Council endorsed the final report and action plan for the 2024 Business Retention and Expansion Program (BR&E). The action plan was developed following extensive interviews with 92 local businesses. The report, developed with input from all seven Local Municipal Partners, identifies key issues such as housing shortages, lack of serviced land, and challenges with the development permit process. Despite these challenges, businesses generally view Elgin County positively but seek improvements in communication and transparency.

The action plan aims to address these concerns by enhancing business engagement, improving communication, and providing clearer guidance on development processes. The plan will be shared with Local Municipal Councils and posted online, with ongoing updates to support and strengthen the local business environment.

Emergency Management Act: Potential Changes and Impacts

Council received a report from the Manager of Emergency Management & Elgin-Middlesex Regional Fire School, providing feedback on the proposed modernization of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA). The report outlined key focus areas for modernization, including enhancing coordination, improving the quality of emergency management programs, and fostering collaboration with First Nations communities. While the potential financial and operational impacts on municipalities remain unclear, this modernization exercise has the potential to improve emergency management practices across the province. Council members were encouraged to submit feedback to the Elgin County Emergency Management Department or directly to Emergency Management Ontario.

Terrace Lodge Pool Reopens: New Agreement with YWCA Enhances Community Access

Council has approved a one-year agreement with YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin for the use of the Terrace Lodge pool, effective September 1, 2024. The pool, which had been closed for renovations and maintenance since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, is now ready for community use. The renovations include updated change rooms and pool maintenance training for staff.

The Terrace Lodge pool, previously utilized by the YWCA for community aquatic programs and by the Elgin-St. Thomas Life After Stroke Adult Day Program for therapy, will resume operations with a 2% increase in rental fees. The new agreement includes updates to safety procedures, insurance requirements, and cost recovery measures. This agreement supports community health, wellness, and water safety programs.

For the complete August 13, 2024 Agenda Package, please visit the following link: County Council Agenda Package