Full Transcript
1 Call to Order
Agenda item under review: Call to Order.
Agenda item 1: Call to Order
2 O Canada
The agenda item listed is O Canada.
Agenda item 2: O Canada
---
Combined agenda package (secondary source)
2.
O Canada
3 Roll Call
Agenda item 3: Roll Call --- Combined agenda package (secondary source) 3.
Agenda item 3: Roll Call
---
Combined agenda package (secondary source)
3.
Roll Call
4 Land Acknowledgement
The agenda item titled Land Acknowledgement was listed for consideration.
Agenda item 4: Land Acknowledgement
---
Combined agenda package (secondary source)
4.
Land Acknowledgement
5 Adoption of Minutes
The County Council considered the adoption of minutes for Agenda item 5.
Agenda item 5: Adoption of Minutes
---
Combined agenda package (secondary source)
5.
Adoption of Minutes
5.a County Council and Committee of the Whole minutes dated September 24, 2026
The County Council adopted minutes from September 10, 2026, and carried consent agenda items covering a Bill 9 regulation consultation report, an electronic medical records transition deficit of $73,095.00 funded by surplus or reserve, and a strategic progress update for Economic Development, Tourism, and Culture. A Planning and Economic Development Advisory Committee meeting document was pulled for further discussion following questions on succession planning. Council received a regional transit study report from Dillon Consulting covering route options and governance structures for Bruce, Dufferin, Grey, and Wellington Counties. A motion to receive the draft report for information was carried while a motion to postpone consideration was lost, and the Joint Municipal Services Committee endorsed reports on municipal insurance and waste management services review.
Council Adopts Minutes and Carries Consent Agenda Items
County Council and Committee of the Whole minutes dated September 24, 2026 were adopted as presented. The consent agenda was carried, receiving reports on Bill 9 regulation consultation, an electronic medical records transition deficit of $73,095.00 to be funded by surplus or reserve, and a strategic progress update for Economic Development, Tourism, and Culture. A Planning and Economic Development Advisory Committee meeting document was pulled for further discussion following questions on succession planning.
Council Receives Regional Transit Study Report
Dillon Consulting presented a study on a unified regional transit network for Bruce, Dufferin, Grey, and Wellington Counties, covering route options, funding models, and governance structures requiring approval from all four counties. Council discussed implementation considerations including gas tax impacts, accessibility requirements, and financial sustainability before taking a recess. A motion to receive the draft report for information was carried, while a motion to postpone consideration was lost.
Joint Municipal Services Committee Received Minutes and Endorsed Reports on Municipal Insurance
The Joint Municipal Services Committee received minutes and endorsed reports on municipal insurance procurement and waste management services review before a notice of motion regarding committee continuation was presented.
Agenda item 5.a: County Council and Committee of the Whole minutes dated September 24, 2026
---
Attachment: Post-Meeting Minutes - CC_Sep24_2026 - English.pdf
Source: https://helpos.ca/attachments/ea2a63b3d38e25211ffb7dc4eda08af4f34366bdaa24e30838498c0a504de8b5/5-a-1-post-meeting-minutes-cc-sep24-2026-english-pdf.pdf
Minutes
Council
September 24, 2026
Present: Councillor Brian Milne, Councillor Scott Mackey, Councillor Sue
Carleton, Councillor Grant Pringle, Councillor Paul McQueen,
Councillor Dane Nielsen, Councillor Sue Paterson, Councillor
Warren Dickert, Councillor Ross Kentner, Councillor Shirley
Keaveney, Councillor Ian Boddy, Councillor Scott Greig,
Councillor Barbara Dobreen, Warden Andrea Matrosovs,
Councillor Peter Bordignon, Councillor Kevin Eccles, Councillor
Tom Hutchinson
Regrets: Councillor Terry McKay
Staff Present: Randy Scherzer, CAO, Niall Lobley, Deputy CAO, Anne Marie
Shaw, Director of Community Services, Jennifer Cornell, Director
of Long-Term Care, Jody MacEachern, Director of IT, Kevin
McNab, Director of Paramedic Services, Pat Hoy, Director of
Transportation Services, Robert Hatten, Manager of
Communications, Savanna Myers, Director of Economic
Development, Tourism and Culture, Sue Murray, Interim Director
of Finance/Treasurer, Becky Hillyer, Senior Planner, Courtney
Miller, Business Development Manager, Garrett Reed, Interim
Deputy Treasurer/Manager of Accounting, Stephanie Stewart,
Manager of Community Transportation, Tara Warder, Clerk,
Rayburn Murray, Deputy Clerk
_____________________________________________________________________
Call to Order
Grey County Council met at the call of the Warden on the above date at 10:01 a.m. at
the County Administration Building. The Warden called Council to order and assumed
the Chair.
O Canada
The Warden invited members of Council to stand for O Canada.
Roll Call
1
The Clerk called the Roll with all members present except for Councillor McKay.
Councillor Hutchinson and Councillor Nielsen attended virtually.
Land Acknowledgement
The Warden read the land acknowledgement.
Adoption of Minutes
County Council and Committee of the Whole minutes dated
September 10, 2026
CC58-26
Moved by: Councillor Keaveney
Seconded by: Councillor Dickert
That the minutes of the County Council meeting and Committee of
the Whole meeting dated September 10, 2026, and the resolutions
contained therein, be adopted as presented.
Carried
Closed Committee of the Whole meeting minutes dated
September 10, 2026
Moved to the October 8, 2026, meeting.
Long Term Care Redevelopment Task Force minutes dated
September 17, 2026
The Clerk noted the correction in the minutes to reflect Winter 2025, as well as Winter
2024.
CC59-26
Moved by: Councillor Milne
Seconded by: Councillor Dobreen
That the Long Term Care Redevelopment Task Force minutes dated
September 17, 2026, be adopted as presented; and
That the following resolutions contained therein be endorsed:
That report CAOR-RP-26-26, being a September Progress Update on
the new Rockwood Terrace development, be received for
information.
Carried
2
Long Term Care Committee of Management minutes dated
September 17, 2026
CC60-26
Moved by: Councillor Mackey
Seconded by: Councillor Carleton
That the Long Term Care Committee of Management minutes dated
September 17, 2026, be adopted as presented; and
That the following resolutions contained therein be endorsed:
That LTCR-CM-17-26 regarding a Long-Term Care Director
Update be received for information.
That report LTCR-CM-18-26 regarding the Long-Term Care
Operational Report dated June 15, to August 14, 2026, be
received for information.
That report CAOR-CM-27-26 being a progress update report on
the new Rockwood Terrace development and impacts to 2027
budget be received for information.
That report LTCR-CM-19-26 regarding the proposed 2027
Long-Term Care budget be received; and
o That the 2027 proposed Long-Term Care budget, as
presented, be forwarded to County Council as part of the
overall corporate budget package for consideration.
Carried
Closed Meeting Matters
There were no closed meeting matters.
Reports
There were no reports.
By-laws
CC61-26
Moved by: Councillor Bordignon
Seconded by: Councillor Kentner
That By-laws 5305-26 to 5307-26 be introduced and be taken as read a first,
second and third time, finally passed, signed by the Warden and the Clerk,
sealed with the seal of the Corporation and engrossed in the by-law book.
3
i. 5305-26 - A By-Law to Adopt Amendment No. 28 to the County of
Grey Official Plan affecting lands described as Part Lot 32,
Concession 1, Divisions 1 and 2, and Parts 7, 8, and 9, 17R2039, and
Part 1 17R2090 T/W/ GS171216; geographic Township of Normanby,
now in the Municipality of West Grey
ii. 5306-26 - A By-law to Adopt a Councillor Conference and Seminar
Policy
iii. 5307-26 - A By-law to confirm all actions and proceedings of the
Council
Carried
News and Celebrations
The Warden highlighted Rural Ontario Week, held from September 20 to 26, and its
focus on celebrating the economic, cultural, and community contributions of rural
regions across the province. She noted that the theme is “Big things happen in rural
places!” During Rural Ontario Week, Grey County proudly celebrates the people,
places, and traditions that make its communities strong.
Warden Matrosovs indicated that Grey County flags are flying at half-mast to mark the
passing of former Grey County Warden Lawrie Weppler. Mr. Weppler served as Grey
County Warden in 1992, representing Normanby Township. The flags have been
lowered in his memory and will remain so until sunset on the day of his service. Our
thoughts are with Mr. Weppler’s family, friends, and loved ones.
Courtney Miller, Business Development Manager, highlighted the Business Enterprise
Centre and its work, including ongoing support for local businesses and an emphasis on
the importance of succession planning.
Pat Hoy, Director of Transportation, indicated that the AORS Provincial Safety Truck
Roadeo will be held on Wednesday, September 23, at the Harry Lumley Bayshore
Community Centre.
Savanna Myers, Director of Economic Development, Tourism, and Culture, indicated
that the International Plowing Match is scheduled to take place from Tuesday,
September 22, to Saturday, September 26, in Walkerton.
Councillor Milne indicated that the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is
scheduled for Wednesday, September 30, with a ceremony at Dundalk United Church.
Councillor Bordignon noted that the Open Fields Farm Tour in Blue Mountains is
scheduled for this Saturday and will feature four participating locations.
Councillor McQueen noted that the Rockland Annual Fall Fair is scheduled for this
weekend. He also indicated that many farm vehicles are on the roads at this time of
year.
4
Adjournment
On motion by Councillors Paterson and Eccles, Council adjourned at 10:31 a.m. to the
call of the Warden.
Andrea Matrosovs, Warden Tara Warder, Clerk
5
---
Attachment: Post-Meeting Minutes - CW(1)_Sep24_2026 - English.pdf
Source: https://helpos.ca/attachments/4ebe088ae2f124248d00814539884cbeabd75003f2400a35be48efcbaa8962f6/5-a-2-post-meeting-minutes-cw-1-sep24-2026-english-pdf.pdf
Minutes
Committee of the Whole
September 24, 2026
_____________________________________________________________________
Call to Order
Grey County Council met on the above date at the County Administration Building.
Warden Matrosovs assumed the Chair and called the meeting to order at 10:33 a.m.
with all members present except for Councillor McKay. Councillor Hutchinson and
Councillor Nielsen participated electronically.
Declaration of Interest
There were no declarations of interest.
Business Arising from Minutes
There was no business arising from the minutes.
Determination of Items Requiring Separate Discussion
Item 6 c) regarding the Planning and Economic Development Advisory Committee
meeting document dated September 8, 2026, was pulled for further discussion.
Consent Agenda
CW150-26
Moved by: Councillor Dickert
Seconded by: Councillor Pringle
That the following Consent Agenda items be received; and
That staff be authorized to take the actions necessary to give effect to the
recommendations in the staff reports; and
That the correspondence be supported or received for information as
recommended in the consent agenda.
Carried
1
CCR-CW-15-26 Comments on Regulations - Bill 9, Municipal
Accountability Act
That Report CCR-CW-15-26 regarding Bill 9, Municipal Accountability
Act, 2026 Regulation Consultation Proposal Number 26-MMAH054,
be received for information.
PSR-CW-07-26 Electronic Medical Records Transition Following
Prehos Closure
That Report PSR-CW-07-26 be received; and
That the anticipated $73,095.00 deficit from the Prehos closure be
funded by any available surplus in the 2026 paramedic services
budget at year end, and if no surplus exists, be funded by the One-
Time Stabilization Funding Reserve.
EDTC-PEDAC-10-26 Economic Development, Tourism, and
Culture Strategic Progress Update - September 2026
That report EDTC-PEDAC-10-26 regarding the Economic
Development, Tourism and Culture Strategic Progress Update –
September 2026 be received for information.
Planning and Economic Development Advisory
Committee meeting minutes dated September 8, 2026
This item was pulled for further discussion in response to the presentation from
Courtney Miller, Business Development Manager, on the Council agenda regarding the
Business Enterprise Centre. In response to questions regarding succession planning in
the agricultural communities, she noted that partnership with Grey Agricultural Services
is ongoing and the team works to support them, to then support the community. She
provided clarification that OSBAC stands for the Ontario Small Business Advisory
Centres.
CW151-26
Moved by: Councillor Carleton
Seconded by: Councillor Mackey
That the document referencing the September 8th meeting of the Planning
and Economic Development Advisory Committee be received for
information.
Carried
Delegations
2
Dillon Consulting, Dennis Kar - Unified Regional Transit Network
Study
Dennis Car of Dillon Consulting presented the Unified Regional Transit Study, which
was undertaken to design and assess the feasibility of a coordinated transit network
serving Bruce, Dufferin, Grey, and Wellington Counties. He examined the proposed
base network options including a combine fixed-route services on-demand transit, fare
strategy and anticipated operating costs. He also reviewed route options across the four
counties, including primary commuter corridors and seasonal services intended to
address differing travel patterns and service needs. The presentation included an
overview of Ontario Transit Investment Fund (OTIF) funding and the corresponding
municipal funding requirements that would need to be considered as part of
implementation. Anne Lindsay of Dillon Consulting then outlined the proposed
governance models and described how the four counties could make decisions and
oversee the service collectively. The options included establishing a Joint Municipal
Services Board, designating a lead municipality through an intermunicipal agreement, or
creating a municipally governed non-profit organization. The consultants also examined
the potential role of SMART under each governance model. In closing, Dennis and Anne
confirmed that approval from all four counties would be necessary before a unified
network could proceed and advised that staff are continuing to evaluate the most
appropriate service, funding, and governance structure for Council’s future
consideration.
Following the presentation, Council members asked questions and provided comments
on several implementation considerations. Discussion addressed the gas tax and the
extent to which it could influence the design or financial viability of the proposed
regional network. Council also considered the legislative requirements of the
Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, including the need to ensure that any
regional service model provides accessible transit. Further questions focused on the
terms and availability of OTIF funding, the municipal contributions that may be required,
and the long-term financial sustainability of the service.
Council took a recess at 11:46 a.m. and returned at 11:58 a.m.
Items For Direction and Discussion
EDTC-CW-12-26 BDGW Regional Transit Study
Moved by: Councillor Dobreen
Seconded by: Councillor Carleton
That report EDTC-CW-12-26 regarding the Bruce-Dufferin-Grey-
Wellington Unified Regional Transit Study Draft be received for
information.
CW152-26
Moved by: Councillor Greig
Seconded by: Councillor Eccles
3
That the motion and report EDTC-CW-12-26 BDGW Regional Transit
Study be postponed to the next meeting of Committee of the Whole
on October 8th, 2026.
Lost
CW153-26
Moved by: Councillor Dobreen
Seconded by: Councillor Carleton
That report EDTC-CW-12-26 regarding the Bruce-Dufferin-Grey-
Wellington Unified Regional Transit Study Draft be received for
information.
Carried
PDR-CW-43-26 City of Owen Sound OP Approval
CW154-26
Moved by: Councillor Boddy
Seconded by: Councillor Keaveney
That Report PDR-CW-43-26 regarding the approval of the City of
Owen Sound’s Updated Official Plan (2026) be received; and,
That the Committee of the Whole hereby approves the updated City
of Owen Sound Official Plan (2026) as adopted by By-law No. 2026-
029, subject to those modifications attached as Appendix 1.
Carried
Joint Municipal Services Committee minutes dated September 15,
2026
CW155-26
Moved by: Councillor Dickert
Seconded by: Councillor Pringle
That the Joint Municipal Services Committee minutes dated
September 15, 2026, be received; and
That the following resolutions contained therein be endorsed:
That report CAOR-JMS-16-26 regarding joint procurement of
municipal insurance be received for information.
That report CAOR-JMS-18-26 regarding Waste Management
Services Review be received for information.
4
Carried
Closed Meeting Matters
There were no closed meeting matters.
Other Business
Councillor McQueen noted that the Wayne Fitzgerald, Mayor of Grey Highlands from
2010 to 2014, passed away in the beginning of September.
Notice of Motion
Councillor Pringle presented a notice of motion for the meeting of the Committee of the
Whole regarding continuation of the Joint Municipal Services Committee as it was
concluding based on the Terms of Reference.
Adjournment
On motion of Councillor Milne and Councillor Boddy, Committee of the Whole adjourned
at 1:16 p.m. to the call of the Chair.
Andrea Matrosovs, Warden Tara Warder, Clerk
5
5.b Special Committee of the Whole minutes dated September 22, 2026
The Special Committee of the Whole reviewed the draft 2027 and projected 2028 budget, noting a projected net levy increase driven by factors including COLA, staffing requests, inflation, and conservation authority costs. Staff presented departmental initiatives across Corporate Services, Planning, Economic Development, and Community Services, highlighting specific projects such as the new EarlyON centre in Hanover, regional transit solutions, the new Rockwood Terrace facility, a paramedic base in Thornbury, and the Road Exchange implementation. A motion to receive the report and incorporate the proposed draft budget was carried.
Committee Reviews Draft 2027 Budget and Departmental Initiatives
The Special Committee of the Whole reviewed the draft 2027 and projected 2028 budget, noting a projected net levy increase of approximately 8.49% driven by factors including COLA, staffing requests, inflation, and conservation authority costs. Staff presented departmental initiatives across Corporate Services, Planning, Economic Development, and Community Services, highlighting specific projects such as the new EarlyON centre in Hanover and regional transit solutions.
Council Reviews 2027 Draft Budget Initiatives and Carries Motion
Directors reviewed departmental initiatives for Early Learning, Housing, Long-Term Care, Paramedic Services, and Transportation, detailing specific projects like the new Rockwood Terrace facility, a paramedic base in Thornbury, and the Road Exchange implementation. Staff noted that the 2027 draft budget is driven by collective agreements, COLA, inflation, and various project costs, with offsetting savings from increased revenue. Council discussed the potential for paramedics to provide additional hospital services and the safety benefits of paved shoulders. The CAO confirmed the budget remains a working draft, emphasizing the need to justify proposed increases using the Asset Management Plan. A motion to receive the report and incorporate the proposed draft budget was carried.
Agenda item 5.b: Special Committee of the Whole minutes dated September 22, 2026
---
Attachment: Post-Meeting Minutes - CW(1)_Sep22_2026 - English.pdf
Source: https://helpos.ca/attachments/7727ea9c2309617d21b5a4c55f9301fa42efd73bcb643ade69e1ba914e0d41d7/5-b-1-post-meeting-minutes-cw-1-sep22-2026-english-pdf.pdf
Minutes
Special Committee of the Whole
September 22, 2026
_____________________________________________________________________
Call to Order
Grey County Council met on the above date at the County Administration Building.
Warden Matrosovs assumed the Chair and called the meeting to order at 10:00 a.m.
Present: Warden Matrosovs, Councillor Terry McKay, Councillor Sue Carleton,
Councillor Grant Pringle, Councillor Paul McQueen, Councillor Dane Neilsen, Councillor
Sue Paterson, Councillor Warren Dickert, Councillor Ross Kentner, Councillor Shirley
Keaveney, Councillor Ian Boddy, Councillor Scott Greig, Councillor Brian Milne,
Councillor Barbara Dobreen, Councillor Peter Bordignon, Councillor Kevin Eccles,
Councillor Ian Hutchinson.
Absent: Councillor Scott Mackey.
Councillor Warren Dickert participated electronically.
The following staff members were in attendance: Randy Scherzer, CAO; Niall Lobley,
Deputy CAO; Scott Taylor, Director of Planning; Anne Marie Shaw, Director of
Community Services; Jennifer Cornell, Director of Long-Term Care; Jennifer Moreau,
Director of Human Resources; Jody MacEachern, Director of IT; Kevin McNab, Director
of Paramedic Services; Pat Hoy, Director of Transportation Services; Robert Hatten,
Manager of Communications; Savanna Myers, Director of Economic Development,
Tourism and Culture; Sue Murray, Interim Director of Finance/Treasurer; Garrett Reed,
Manager of Accounting/Interim Deputy Treasurer; Katherine Dabrowa, Financial
Analyst; Edward Hancock, Financial Analyst; Karen Wilken, Financial Analyst; Katrina
Peredun, Communications Officer; Tara Warder, Clerk; Rayburn Murray, Deputy Clerk.
O Canada
The Warden invited members of Council to stand for O Canada.
Roll Call
The Clerk called the roll with all members present, with the exception of Councillor
Mackey.
1
Land Acknowledgement
The Warden read the land acknowledgement.
Declaration of Interest
There were no declarations of interest.
Items For Direction and Discussion
FR-CW-20-26 - 2027 and 2028 Budget
Randy Scherzer, CAO, introduced the 2027 and projected 2028 Draft Budget. He
provided an overview of the 2027 budget timelines, highlighting the ongoing work of
staff over the year, and noting that the budget will be presented in December for new
Council consideration and review. At this time, draft budgets are being presented to
Council and to the Long-Term Care Committee of Management last week. He referred
to the overall budget summary, by corporate area. At this time, based on the draft
budget, the projected net levy increase after growth, is approximately an 8.49%
increase.
Sue Murray, Interim Director of Finance/Treasurer thanked staff for their work to support
the budget process and presentation. She referenced the major assumptions including
the inflationary increases, estimated future provincial and federal funding, and the
lifecycle and condition of capital assets and replacement cost for assets, and more.
Further, the rate of return on investments growth in assessment, and cost of living
increases for non-union and collective agreements were also considerations throughout
development.
The Interim Director of Finance/Director referred to the major budget impacts for 2027
and 2028 including the increased cost for existing staffing, increased spending on
existing capital assets, health and dental benefit increases, Conservation Authority
costs, increased cost of operating new Rockwood Terrace, keeping old Rockwood after
moving into the new building, the paramedic enhancement plan, roads exchanges, and
more.
Niall Lobley, Deputy CAO, reviewed the full-time staffing requests, over 2027 and 2028,
noting the reasoning of such to support the addition of new services and responding to
growth. He also noted the positions that were carried forward, to support cost savings.
Council requested clarification on the duties of the positions and how they would further
support departments. In response to questions, staff clarified the cost of the Coordinator
positions only, for 2027. would encompass a 0.33% increase.
Further questions and comments from Council included:
Support for obtaining revenue for facilities to offset budget costs.
Support for the ongoing relationship with the lower tier municipalities and
flexibility with supporting positions to support both levels of government.
2
The importance of understanding the potential savings to support staffing, rather
than consultants, where necessary.
Seeking additional information on the growth in staff and the corresponding
increase in growth, over the last 4 years.
Seeking additional information on the funding from the Province that has stopped
for a service, resulting in the continuation of the service by the County.
Councillor Hutchinson left the meeting at 11:33 a.m. and returned at 11:36 a.m.
Committee of the Whole recessed at 11:38 a.m. and returned at 11:48 a.m.
Councillor Bordignon left the meeting at 11:38 a.m.
In response to questions and comments from Council, staff further noted that a
reduction in revenue in Sydenham Campus was realized as Georgian College had
moved two classes back to their locations, and further HVAC upgrades will involve the
movement of tenants to support their ongoing programs. The role of Archives at Grey
Roots to support the lower tier municipalities was also noted. At this time, staff are able
to charge for research but do not have the capacity to do so. Staff clarified that the
Dundalk Paramedic Base is a capital project, but in 2027 there is an increase in 6 full
time employees, as recommended by the Employment Review. Further, clarification on
the funding model to support the paramedic response times was also noted.
Additionally, staff noted they continue to work with Owen Sound Police Services to
support Owen Sound court security, and are in active discussions with the OPP for
Walkerton court security. Overall, staff continue to seek clarification from the Province
and continue to find ways to increase revenue where possible.
Closed Meeting Matters
Council proceeded into closed session at 12:04 p.m.
CW150-26
Moved by: Councillor Hutchinson
Seconded by: Councillor Brian Milne
That the Committee of the Whole does now go into closed session
pursuant to Section 239 (2) of the Municipal Act, 2001, as amended, to
discuss:
i. labour relations or employee negotiations (budget pressures).
Carried
Council returned to open session at 12:20 p.m.
The Warden confirmed that Committee of the Whole met in closed session
regarding labour relations or employee negotiations.
Council took a recess at 12:20 p.m. and returned at 1:01 p.m.
3
Items for Direction and Discussion
FR-CW-20-26 - 2027 and 2028 Budget
Following the recess, the CAO reviewed the Corporate Services Department's draft
budget. The draft included a levy increase of approximately 1.19%, driven by COLA,
staffing requests, court security, Grey County's 175th anniversary celebrations, inflation,
and conservation authority costs. In addition to maintaining core functions, key ongoing
initiatives include implementing new financial software, updating the Corporate and IT
Strategic Plan, supporting staff in obtaining professional designations, enhancing POA
collection efforts, and engaging with the Ministry of the Attorney General on
modernization.
In response to questions about the conservation authority changes, the CAO noted that
final costs have yet to be determined. The transition to the County may allow lower-tier
funds to be used differently. Council also requested that an organizational chart
identifying full-time and part-time employees be included with the December budget. In
addition, Council requested a breakdown of conference spending by Council and staff,
as well as a comparison of professional development expenditures from the beginning
to the end of the term.
Councillor McQueen joined the meeting at 1:16 p.m.
Scott Taylor, Director of Planning, reviewed departmental initiatives, including the
County Official Plan review; the finalization and implementation of new forest
management and agricultural by-laws; the finalization of the Archaeological
Management Plan and Development Charges Background Study; and the potential
implementation of a new hybrid planning model with some lower-tier municipalities. He
noted that the 2027 draft budget is driven by COLA, reduced forest harvest revenue,
and reduced subdivision application revenue.
Savanna Myers, Director of Economic Development, Tourism and Culture, reviewed
departmental initiatives, including advancing the EDTC Master Plan; building Team
Grey's capacity through investments in data sharing, the website, and local community
improvement plans; supporting Grey Roots' Grey County 175 celebrations and Made
Grey't!; supporting local businesses through the Business Enterprise Centre, Sydenham
Campus, and skilled trades training with Georgian College; continuing destination
storytelling through [gath-er] to attract visitors and connect residents; and developing a
regional transit solution in partnership with Bruce, Dufferin, and Wellington counties.
She noted that the 2027 draft budget is driven by COLA, staffing requests, regional
transit, the data-sharing platform, reduced Sydenham revenue, and inflation. In
response to questions, staff noted that the use of consultants had undergone a
thorough review and that discussions and support for the County's Community
Improvement Plan are ongoing. Details about the Regional Transit Study and next steps
are scheduled for the Committee of the Whole meeting on Thursday.
Anne Marie Shaw, Director of Community Services, reviewed Social Services initiatives,
including completing and opening a new EarlyON centre in Hanover; supporting 1,400
households and 2,400 individuals in Grey County through the Ontario Works program;
4
and leading the implementation and administration of Early Learning and Child Care
technology initiatives as directed by the Province. She noted that the 2027 draft budget
is driven by collective agreements, COLA, and inflation, with offsetting savings from
increased grant revenue.
Anne Marie Shaw, Director of Community Services, reviewed Housing initiatives,
including investing in building maintenance and repairs; undertaking a multi-year
grading and front-step replacement project at the 68 Alpha Street family townhouses to
improve safety, curb appeal, and water-damage prevention; helping individuals
experiencing homelessness find and maintain housing by adding a housing case
coordinator position; and supporting nine non-profit housing providers in maintaining
affordable housing units amid rising cost pressures. She noted that the 2027 draft
budget is driven by COLA, staffing requests, increased funding for non-profit housing
providers, increased asset management investment, and inflation, with offsetting
savings from tenant revenue. At 1:54 p.m., Council discussed the affordable housing
reserve and the use of affordable housing funding to support programs and
opportunities.
Councillor Eccles left the meeting at 1:53 p.m. and returned at 1:55 p.m.
Jennifer Cornell, Director of Long-Term Care and Senior Services, reviewed Long-Term
Care initiatives, including the new Rockwood Terrace facility; Colour It with C.A.R.E. for
residents and families living with dementia, supported through continued staff education
and development; replacement of a section of the Lee Manor roofing system; and
window replacements at Lee Manor and Grey Gables to improve energy efficiency. She
noted that the 2027 draft budget is driven by collective agreements, COLA, staffing
requests, operational increases related to the new Rockwood Terrace, the temporary
cost of operating and maintaining both the existing and new Rockwood Terrace
buildings, and inflation, offset by increased grant and resident revenue.
Councillor Hutchinson left the meeting at 1:58 p.m. and returned at 2:01 p.m.
Kevin McNab, Director of Paramedic Services, reviewed departmental initiatives,
including an enhancement plan that would add two shifts and three ambulances to
respond to increased call volumes; construction of a new paramedic base in Thornbury;
enhanced emergency communications through satellite-based text messaging; and
expanded paramedic skills and patient care for the treatment of pain, seizures, and
sedation. He noted that the 2027 draft budget is driven by collective agreements, COLA,
the enhancement plan, increased staff lost time, increased asset management
investment, and inflation, with offsetting revenue from increased grants. Council
discussed the potential for paramedics to provide additional hospital services over time
and requested information about emergency room and care reductions and their budget
impacts.
Pat Hoy, Director of Transportation Services, reviewed departmental initiatives, including
implementing the Road Exchange on June 1, 2027, with subsequent transitional funding
for urban roads; completing the new Patrol D facility in Ceylon; decommissioning the
end-of-life Kimberley dome; constructing a new sand and salt building in Clarksburg;
and updating the Transportation Master Plan. He noted that the 2027 draft budget is
5
driven by COLA, collective agreements, increased asset management investment,
greater consumption of winter maintenance materials, the Road Exchange, and
inflation. Council discussed the potential cost savings and safety benefits of paved
shoulders.
Councillor Boddy left the meeting at 2:19 p.m.
Councillor McQueen left the meeting at 2:24 p.m. and returned at 2:26 p.m.
Councillor Nielsen left the meeting at 2:22 p.m. and returned at 2:25 p.m.
In summary, the CAO noted that the budget remains a working draft and thanked
Council for its feedback and staff for their ongoing work. Following the presentation,
Council emphasized the importance of demonstrating and justifying the value of
proposed increases and of using the Asset Management Plan to guide requests.
Council also encouraged the next Council to consider the services Paramedic Services
provides in support of the healthcare system. Staff clarified that future discussions will
address plans for the former Rockwood Terrace. Staff also confirmed that the Long-
Term Care Committee of Management meeting minutes will be presented to Committee
of the Whole on Thursday and that any budget changes made before December will be
reflected in the December budget.
CW151-26
Moved by: Councillor Sue Carleton
Seconded by: Councillor Dane Nielsen
That Report FR-CW-20-26 regarding the 2027 and 2028 Budget
Update be received; and
That the proposed draft budget be incorporated into the draft 2027
and proposed 2028 budgets as presented, for council’s
consideration and direction.
Carried
Other Business
There was no other business.
Notice of Motion
There were no notices of motion.
Adjournment
On motion of Councillor Dobreen and Councillor McQueen, Committee of the Whole
adjourned at 2:41 p.m. to the call of the Chair.
6
Andrea Matrosovs, Warden
Tara Warder, Clerk
7
5.c Closed Committee of the Whole meeting minutes dated September 10, 2026 and September 22, 2026
The County Council adopted the closed session Committee of the Whole meeting minutes dated September 10, 2026, and the special Committee of the Whole meeting minutes dated September 22, 2026.
Agenda item 5.c: Closed Committee of the Whole meeting minutes dated September 10, 2026 and September 22, 2026
---
Combined agenda package (secondary source)
5.c
Closed Committee of the Whole meeting minutes dated September 10,
2026 and September 22, 2026
That the closed session Committee of the Whole meeting minutes dated
September 10, 2026 and the Special Committee of the Whole meeting
minutes dated September 22, 2026 be adopted as provided.
6 Closed Meeting Matters
The County Council addressed closed meeting matters.
Agenda item 6: Closed Meeting Matters
---
Combined agenda package (secondary source)
6.
Closed Meeting Matters
7 Reports
The agenda item lists reports for presentation to the County Council.
Agenda item 7: Reports
---
Combined agenda package (secondary source)
7.
Reports
8 By-laws
Agenda item 8: By-laws --- Attachment: 5309-26 - By-law to Confirm the Proceedings of Council (October 8) of the Corporation of the County of Grey.pdf Source: https://helpos.ca/attachments/c9d9175535a8d95e20587a899cf11fc9ec867967ffb5e0f612b15efc7cf7275a/8-1-5309-26-by-law-to-confirm-the-proceedings-of-council-october-8-of-the-corporation-of-the-c.pdf Corporation of the County of Grey By-law 5309-26 A By-law to confirm all actions and proceedings of the Council WHEREAS Section 5 of the Municipal Act, 2001, as amended, states that the powers of a municipality shall be exercised by its Council; AND WHEREAS Section 5 (3) of the Municipal Act, 2001, as amended, provides that municipal powers shall be exercised by by-law; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CORPORATION OF THE COUNTY OF GREY HEREBY ENACTS AS FOLLOWS: 1.
Agenda item 8: By-laws
---
Attachment: 5309-26 - By-law to Confirm the Proceedings of Council (October 8) of the Corporation of the County of Grey.pdf
Source: https://helpos.ca/attachments/c9d9175535a8d95e20587a899cf11fc9ec867967ffb5e0f612b15efc7cf7275a/8-1-5309-26-by-law-to-confirm-the-proceedings-of-council-october-8-of-the-corporation-of-the-c.pdf
Corporation of the County of Grey
By-law 5309-26
A By-law to confirm all actions and proceedings of the Council
WHEREAS Section 5 of the Municipal Act, 2001, as amended, states that the powers of
a municipality shall be exercised by its Council;
AND WHEREAS Section 5 (3) of the Municipal Act, 2001, as amended, provides that
municipal powers shall be exercised by by-law;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE COUNCIL OF
THE CORPORATION OF THE COUNTY OF GREY HEREBY ENACTS AS FOLLOWS:
1. The actions of the Council of the Corporation of the County of Grey at its meetings
held on September 22, 2026, to date, in respect of each recommendation contained
in the Reports to Committee of the Whole, and each motion and resolution passed,
and any other actions taken by Council at these meetings are hereby adopted and
confirmed as if such proceedings were expressly embodied in this By-law.
2. The Warden and proper officers of the Corporation of the County of Grey are hereby
authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to the said action, to
obtain approvals where required and to execute all documents necessary in that
behalf.
ENACTED AND PASSED this 8th day of October, 2026.
___________________________ ______________________________
WARDEN: Andrea Matrosovs CLERK: Tara Warder
9 News and Celebrations
The agenda item 9 News and Celebrations includes a by-law to confirm all actions and proceedings of the Council.
Agenda item 9: News and Celebrations
---
Combined agenda package (secondary source)
9.
5309-26 A By-law to confirm all actions and proceedings of the Council
News and Celebrations
Page 2 of 20
10 Adjournment
The County Council adjourned the meeting.
Agenda item 10: Adjournment
---
Combined agenda package (secondary source)
10.
Adjournment