Hook: Veterans Memorial Crosswalk Painting Proposal
Owen Sound · Committee - Operations · September 24, 2026
One-sentence summary: The September 24, 2026 meeting at 5:30 PM will consider extending the Pattison Outdoor Advertising Amending Agreement through August 31, 2027, and approving painting the Veterans Memorial Crosswalk on 1st Avenue West.
The Committee on Operations will convene on September 24, 2026, at 5:30 PM to consider several key proposals, beginning with Report OP-26-046, which seeks City Council approval to paint a Veterans Memorial Crosswalk on 1st Avenue West from the cenotaph to the Owen Sound & North Grey Union Public Library. Staff will also present an update on the outdoor advertising contract, recommending that Supervisor of Environmental Services extends the agreement with Pattison Outdoor Advertising until August 31, 2027, to sustain revenue from bus interior, shelter, and terminal ads. Additionally, a report from the Interim Director of Public Works and Engineering regarding Report OP-26-045 will detail Phase 1 of the water meter replacement project, where over 98% of more than 7,000 meters have been installed by Neptune Technology Group, followed by plans to launch a customer portal for real-time data and alert residents facing a transition to monthly billing after December 31, 2026. Public correspondence from Chantel Rogers concerning unsafe road conditions on 20th Street East will further inform the discussion.
HelpOS discussion thread link pending.
This page is an accessibility-focused summary and extracted agenda text intended to promote civic accessibility.
It is an unofficial convenience copy and may contain extraction or summarization errors.
For the authoritative record, try to access the original source materials from Owen Sound using the original link below.
Council called the meeting to order.
Agenda item 1: CALL TO ORDER
Council considered a call for additional business.
Agenda item 2: CALL FOR ADDITIONAL BUSINESS
Council members declared their interests.
Agenda item 3: DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
Council confirmed the minutes for Agenda item 4.
Agenda item 4: CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
The Operations Committee approved minutes from May 21, 2026, and directed staff to investigate using a section of the Genoe Landfill for excess soils storage. The committee recommended discontinuing the 45-minute transit pilot programme and returning to the regular 30-minute schedule effective August 3, 2026. Staff clarified that all buses must support live GPS tracking and explained that traffic engineering inquiries regarding a child accident are directed to Traffic Engineering Technologists rather than police. Data collection determined additional signalization at 8th Street East and 4th Avenue East is not warranted.
The Operations Committee approved minutes from May 21, 2026, and directed staff to investigate using a section of the Genoe Landfill for excess soils storage. The committee also recommended discontinuing the 45-minute transit pilot program and returning to the regular 30-minute schedule effective August 3, 2026.
Staff clarified that all buses must support live GPS tracking and explained that traffic engineering inquiries regarding a child accident are directed to Traffic Engineering Technologists rather than police, while data collection determined additional signalization at 8th Street East and 4th Avenue East is not warranted.
Agenda item 4.a: Minutes of the Operations Committee meeting held on July 23, 2026
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Attachment: 2026-07-23 Operations Committee Meeting Minutes.pdf
Source: https://helpos.ca/attachments/c11f2928d1bc2335a4ecb81ba8328cdcb8dea0f61fe03b49086a20ba0345872a/4-a-1-2026-07-23-operations-committee-meeting-minutes-pdf.pdf
Minutes
Operations Committee
July 23, 2026, 5:30 p.m.
City Hall - 808 2nd Avenue East - Council Chambers
MEMBERS PRESENT: Chair Scott Greig
Vice Chair Jon Farmer
Member Donald Anderson
Member Arlene Blue Indoe
Member Michele Hawkins
Member Graham Jordan
Councillor Carol Merton (via phone)
Member Aletta Schurter
MEMBERS
ABSENT/REGRETS: Councillor Brock Hamley
STAFF PRESENT: Lara Widdifield, Director of Public Works and Engineering
Mason Bellamy, Manager of Public Works and Engineering
Heidi Jennen, Supervisor of Environmental Services
Christina McLean, Committee and Executive Support
Coordinator
_____________________________________________________________________
1. CALL TO ORDER
Chair Greig called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
2. CALL FOR ADDITIONAL BUSINESS
2.a Committee and Executive Support Coordinator Re: 2026 Municipal Election
Reminder
2.b Councillor Farmer Re: Traffic Concerns at 8th Street East and 4th Avenue East
2.c Councillor Farmer Re: Recent Changes to Urban Speed Limits in the Municipality
of Meaford
3. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
3.a Member Hawkins - Item 8.b.1 - Report OP-26-035 from the Supervisor of
Environmental Services Re: Owen Sound Transit 45-Minute Service Pilot Results
and Item 8.b.2 - Report OP-26-037 from the Supervisor of Environmental
Services Re: Find My Bus App Capital Project Update
Member Hawkins declared an interest with items 8.b.1 and 8.b.2 due to their
personal employment with the City's transit operator, Voyago/Transdev.
4. CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
4.a Minutes of the Operations Committee meeting held on May 21, 2026
OP-260723-001
Moved by Vice Chair Farmer
"THAT the Operations Committee approves the minutes of the meeting held
on May 21, 2026."
Carried.
5. DEPUTATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
There were no deputations or presentations.
6. PUBLIC FORUM
6.a Jake Bousfield-Bastedo, Owen Sound resident
The Speaker provided comments respecting the pedestrian infrastructure at 2nd
Avenue West and 9th Street West, noting that the button must be used to prompt
the pedestrian signal and reprogramming of the signal would help pedestrians
and improve safety.
In response to a question from Committee, the Manager of Public Works and
Engineering noted that staff have investigated this specific intersection, and that
due to the age of the infrastructure, the entire signal system would need to be
replaced in order to reprogram it in such a way.
7. CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED FOR WHICH DIRECTION IS REQUIRED
There were no correspondence items presented for consideration.
8. REPORTS OF CITY STAFF
8.a Environment
8.a.1 Report OP-26-036 from the Supervisor of Environmental Services Re:
Landfill Approval Alternatives Analysis
The Supervisor of Environmental Services provided an overview of the
report.
In response to a question from Committee, the Supervisor noted that
although Grey County Council could receive the Regional Waste
Management Study as early as 2027, implementation of the study’s
recommendations could take several years. The Supervisor added that the
consultant preparing the study is aware that the City is considering this
site for excess soils.
In response to a question from Committee, the Manager of Public Works
and Engineering noted that excess soil can be moved around or reused in
some instances as long as it is clean and within regulations; however,
there is also a volume of soil that is deemed "unclean" that would be
disposed of at the site for perpetuity.
In response to a question from Committee, the Supervisor clarified that
leachate is still collected from the Genoe site.
In response to a question from Committee, the Manager noted that the
compost site could possibly accept clean fill in the future, but that the main
focus is finding a location to dispose of unclean fill at this time, which can
only be deposited at a licensed facility, such as the landfill.
In response to a question from Committee, the Director of Public Works
and Engineering noted that, unlike the landfill, the compost site does not
have an environmental compliance approval. If the site were significantly
expanded or changed, the City would need to obtain the necessary
approvals before it could be used for additional purposes. The Director
added that this would result in additional costs compared to using the
landfill site, which already has the required approval.
OP-260723-002
Moved by Councillor Merton
"THAT in consideration of Staff Report OP-26-036 respecting the
Landfill Approval Alternatives Analysis, the Operations Committee
recommends that City Council direct staff to use the $35,000
approved in the 2024 capital budget to investigate the feasibility of
using a section of the Genoe Landfill for Excess Soils storage."
Carried.
8.b Transit
Having declared a conflict of interest with Items 8.b.1 and 8.b.2, Member
Hawkins left the Council Chambers.
8.b.1 Report OP-26-035 from the Supervisor of Environmental Services Re:
Owen Sound Transit 45-Minute Service Pilot Results
The Supervisor of Environmental Services provided an overview of the
report.
In response to questions from Committee, the Supervisor noted that:
The change to the pilot program caused some confusion among
riders and drivers, and there are no plans currently to restart the
pilot program.
There was a traffic route optimization study completed in 2023
which outlined the different transit routes, and that routes can be
investigated again in the future to help with better on-time
performance, as 10th Street East and the hospital are two locations
that often cause additional delays.
Staff are meeting with the contractor in August 2026, who has
some recommendations for fleet and routes to share with the City,
and any recommended changes will be brought forward to a future
Council or Committee meeting.
OP-260723-003
Moved by Vice Chair Farmer
"THAT in consideration of Staff Report OP-26-035 respecting the
Owen Sound Transit 45-Minute Service Pilot Results, the Operations
Committee recommends that City Council direct staff to discontinue
the 45-minute pilot and return to the regular 30-minute schedule,
effective August 3, 2026."
Carried.
8.b.2 Report OP-26-037 from the Supervisor of Environmental Services Re:
Find My Bus App Capital Project Update
The Supervisor of Environmental Services provided an overview of the
report.
In response to a question from Committee, the Supervisor noted that the
quote in the report is for three portable GPS systems, so all buses should
have the capabilities to use the live tracking system at all times.
OP-260723-004
Moved by Member Jordan
"THAT in consideration of Staff Report OP-26-037 respecting the Find
my Bus App Capital Project Update, the Operations Committee
recommends that City Council receive the report for information
purposes."
Carried.
Member Hawkins returned to the Council Chambers.
8.c Engineering
None.
8.d Public Works
None.
8.e Water and Wastewater
None.
9. MATTERS POSTPONED
There were no matters postponed.
10. MOTIONS FOR WHICH NOTICE WAS PREVIOUSLY GIVEN
10.a Motion for Which Notice was Previously Given by Councillor Merton at the May
21, 2026 Operations Committee Meeting Re: Pedestrian Accident Involving a
Child
In response to questions from Committee, the Director of Public Works and
Engineering noted that:
In cases of traffic or speeding concerns, the inquiry is directed to the City's
Traffic Engineering Technologist who then performs traffic monitoring of
the location and added that the Owen Sound Police Service does not
typically follow up with the City after an accident unless there is a
particular issue that needs to be addressed by the City directly, such as
tree trimming or signage adjustments.
The Neighbourhood Traffic Calming Policy was implemented as an
avenue to address these concerns in a consistent and effective way, and if
the data collected supports the concern, then items will be budgeted and
rectified accordingly.
Education and enforcement are normally tried first to aid in traffic
concerns before any engineering changes take place.
The next Transportation Master Plan is going to be multi-modal and
comprehensive and will take into account items such as
pedestrian/vehicular conflicts and how individuals get around the City with
all modes of transportation.
OP-250723-005d
Moved by Councillor Merton
"THAT the Operations Committee recommends that City Council direct staff
to provide an update relating to the concerns and suggestions provided by
citizens respecting the recent accident involving a 4 year old child to a
future meeting of the Operations Committee.”
Defeated.
11. CORRESPONDENCE PROVIDED FOR INFORMATION
There were no correspondence items presented for information.
12. DISCUSSION OF ADDITIONAL BUSINESS
12.a 2026 Municipal Election Reminder
The Committee and Executive Support Coordinator provided a reminder of the
upcoming Municipal Election in October, highlighting that nominations are open
until August 21 at 2:00 p.m., and that voters can confirm their voter registration
online at RegisterToVoteON.ca by August 12.
12.b Traffic Concerns at 8th Street East and 4th Avenue East
Councillor Farmer provided comments respecting recent correspondence
received regarding traffic concerns at specific intersections throughout the City,
including at 8th Street East and 4th Avenue East, and highlighted that a set of
lights or stop control device could be beneficial for individuals as there is not
another pedestrian crossing in the direct area.
In response to a question from Committee, the Manager of Public Works and
Engineering noted that staff are aware of these concerns and have collected
traffic data at the intersections. Based on the data collected, additional
signalization is not warranted at this time.
In response to a question from Committee, the Director of Public Works and
Engineering added that several factors are considered when determining
whether to install a protected pedestrian crossing, including pedestrian counts,
safety considerations, and the existing landscape such as hills.
12.c Recent Changes to Urban Speed Limits in the Municipality of Meaford
Councillor Farmer provided comments respecting the recent changes made by
the Municipality of Meaford to update their urban speed limits to 40km/h.
In response to a question from Committee, the Director of Public Works and
Engineering noted that speed limit changes could be considered by staff if
directed by Council. The Director added that these concepts will also be
considered as part of the upcoming 2028 Transportation Master Plan.
13. NOTICES OF MOTION
There were no notices of motion.
14. ADJOURNMENT
The business contained on the agenda having been completed, Chair Greig adjourned
the meeting at 6:47 p.m.Council heard deputations and presentations under agenda item 5.
Agenda item 5: DEPUTATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
The public forum allowed attendees to address Council regarding agenda items.
Agenda item 6: PUBLIC FORUM
Council received correspondence requiring a direction.
Agenda item 7: CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED FOR WHICH DIRECTION IS REQUIRED
City staff presented reports on various municipal matters.
Agenda item 8: REPORTS OF CITY STAFF
The agenda item addresses public works.
Agenda item 8.a: Public Works
The Operations Committee recommends that City Council approve painting a Veterans Memorial Crosswalk on 1st Avenue West from the cenotaph to the Owen Sound & North Grey Union Public Library.
The Operations Committee recommends that City Council approve painting a Veterans Memorial Crosswalk on 1st Avenue West from the cenotaph to the Owen Sound & North Grey Union Public Library. The Scenic Order of Good Cheer and the Owen Sound Legion will fully fund installation costs, with completion targeted before Remembrance Day 2026.
Agenda item 8.a.1: Report OP-26-046 from the Interim Director of Public Works and Engineering Re: Veterans Memorial Crosswalk - 1st Avenue West
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Attachment: Veterans Memorial Crosswalk - 1st Avenue West - OP-26-046.pdf
Source: https://helpos.ca/attachments/add7171c50fb87c47bf88d17c9fbfd00cf3c3e18fac705d2f45bc9d0f88d1a02/8-a-1-1-veterans-memorial-crosswalk-1st-avenue-west-op-26-046-pdf.pdf
Staff Report
Report To: Operations Committee
Report From: Michelle Palmer, Interim Director of Public Works and
Engineering
Meeting Date: September 24, 2026
Report Code: OP-26-046
Subject: Veterans Memorial Crosswalk – 1st Avenue West
Recommendations:
THAT in consideration of Staff Report OP-26-046 respecting a Veterans
Memorial Crosswalk at 1st Avenue West, the Operations Committee
recommends that City Council approve the painting of the crosswalk by the
Scenic Order of Good Cheer as described within the report.
Highlights:
Creation of a Veterans Memorial Crosswalk on 1st Avenue West will
honour the sacrifices of Canadian veterans and provide a visible,
permanent tribute within the community.
The proposed design and location have been endorsed by both the
Owen Sound Branch and National Headquarters of the Royal
Canadian Legion, connecting the Cenotaph to the Owen Sound &
North Grey Union Public Library.
Installation costs will be fully funded by the Scenic Order of Good
Cheer and the Owen Sound Legion, with completion targeted before
Remembrance Day 2026.
Vision 2050 - Strategic Plan Alignment:
Strategic Plan Priority: Fostering Mutually Beneficial & Respectful
Relationships - Establishing, reconciling, and continually nurturing
relationships that result in mutual benefit, trust and shared understanding.
Staff Report OP-26-046: Veterans Memorial Crosswalk – 1st Avenue West
Previous Report/Authority:
N/A
Background:
On September 9, 2026, the City received correspondence from the Scenic
Order of Good Cheer regarding their partnership with the Royal Canadian
Legion - Owen Sound Branch to fund a memorial crosswalk to be painted on
1st Avenue West from the cenotaph to the Owen Sound & North Grey Union
Public Library.
Analysis and Options:
Several municipalities across Ontario have installed Veterans Memorial
crosswalks (often called Remembrance Day crosswalks) to recognize those
who made the ultimate sacrifice. The proposed location (Attachment 2) will
replace the current hatched crosswalk at 8th St and 1st Avenue W, and the
proposed design (Attachment 1) has been approved by the Royal Canadian
Legion - Owen Sound branch as well as the Royal Canadian Legion – National
Headquarters.
Existing Pavement Condition:
This block is not identified in the 10-year capital plan for road rehabilitation.
Materials to Be Used / Installation Provider:
The Scenic Order of Good Cheer is gathering quotes from qualified service
providers who have painted these types of crosswalks, and City staff have
provided the specification for the road paint to be utilized. A temporary
encroachment permit will be required for the street occupation, which
requires a certificate of insurance with limits not less than $5 million with the
City as an additional insured, as well as a traffic protection plan.
Resource Alignment:
Financial Resources
The Scenic Order of Good Cheer and the Owen Sound Legion will be covering
the cost of the installation, including the cost of materials and having a
contracted service provider complete it.
Staff Report OP-26-046: Veterans Memorial Crosswalk – 1st Avenue West
Ongoing maintenance costs will be incorporated into the City’s annual line
painting budget.
Human Resources
N/A.
Time and Scheduling
It is the intent of the Scenic Order of Good Cheer to have the installation
completed prior to Remembrance Day (November 11, 2026).
Technology and Infrastructure
N/A.
Climate and Environmental Impacts:
There are no anticipated climate or environmental impacts.
Communication and Engagement:
City staff will work with the Scenic Order of Good Cheer and the Owen Sound
Legion to announce this installation to the community, including issuing a
news release and social media announcements.
Report Developed in Consultation With:
Scenic Order of Good Cheer, Superintendent of Public Works and the
Manager of Public Works and Engineering.
Attachments:
1. Attachment 1 - Proposed Design of the Veterans Memorial
Crosswalk
2. Attachment 2 - Proposed Location of the Veterans Memorial
Crosswalk
Reviewed by:
Tim Simmonds, City Manager
Submission approved by:
Tim Simmonds, City Manager
Staff Report OP-26-046: Veterans Memorial Crosswalk – 1st Avenue West
For more information on this report, please contact Michelle Palmer, Interim
Director of Public Works and Engineering at mpalmer@owensound.ca or 519-
376-4440 ext. 1246.
Staff Report OP-26-046: Veterans Memorial Crosswalk – 1st Avenue West
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Attachment: Attachment 2 - Proposed Location of the Veterans Memorial Crosswalk.pdf
Source: https://helpos.ca/attachments/97e53b318a24c7342e373dd1c1ab99ec29e9d713f26246a6d2ce602dae0a820d/8-a-1-3-attachment-2-proposed-location-of-the-veterans-memorial-crosswalk-pdf.pdf
Proposed Crosswalk
±
ART GALLERY
eW
1st Av
LIBRARY
8th St W 8th St E Proposed Crosswalk
Information shown on these drawings/maps/charts
Meters is compiled from numerous sources and may not
0 3 6 12 18 be complete or accurate
197 75The agenda item addresses transit matters.
Agenda item 8.b: Transit
The Supervisor of Environmental Services recommends extending the Pattison Outdoor Advertising agreement to August 31, 2027, to maintain transit advertising services while staff conduct a comprehensive contract review. This extension ensures continued revenue from bus interior, shelter, and terminal ads, where the City currently receives 32% of net revenue from interior and shelter ads and 50% from exterior bus ads to offset transit service costs.
The Supervisor of Environmental Services recommends a one-year extension of the agreement with Pattison Outdoor Advertising to August 31, 2027, to maintain transit advertising services. This extension allows staff to conduct a comprehensive review of the contract terms while continuing to receive revenue from bus interior, shelter, and terminal advertising. The City currently receives 32% of net revenue from interior and shelter ads and 50% from exterior bus ads, which helps offset transit service costs.
Agenda item 8.b.1: Report OP-26-044 from the Supervisor of Environmental Services Re: Pattison Outdoor Advertising Amending Agreement
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Attachment: Pattison Outdoor Advertising Amending Agreement - OP-26-044.pdf
Source: https://helpos.ca/attachments/f44b66ed2286e6450b0d4245f09f012b7e2386470f12ab2ad48b4cf21ea5ca28/8-b-1-1-pattison-outdoor-advertising-amending-agreement-op-26-044-pdf.pdf
Staff Report
Report To: Operations Committee
Report From: Heidi Jennen, Supervisor of Environmental Services
Meeting Date: September 14, 2026
Report Code: OP-26-044
Subject: Pattison Outdoor Advertising Amending Agreement
Recommendations:
THAT in consideration of Staff Report OP-26-044 respecting Pattison Outdoor
Advertising Amending Agreement, City Council directs staff to bring forward
a by-law to authorize an extension of the City’s existing agreement with
Pattison Outdoor Advertising as outlined in the report.
Highlights:
The City’s previous advertising agreement with Pattison Outdoor
Advertising ended on August 31, 2026.
Staff have negotiated a one-year extension of the existing
agreement to August 31, 2027.
Staff recommend a one-year extension of the existing Pattison
Outdoor Advertising agreement to August 31, 2027, to maintain
transit advertising services while staff complete a comprehensive
review of the agreement in accordance with the City’s Agreement
Development Policy. Following the review, staff will consider a new
agreement effective September 1, 2027.
Vision 2050 - Strategic Plan Alignment:
Strategic Plan Priority: The recommendation contributes to core service
delivery or a corporate initiative that enables service delivery for one or more
strategic priorities.
Staff Report OP-26-044: Pattison Outdoor Advertising Amending Agreement
Previous Report/Authority:
OP-22-034 – Contract Extension – Pattison Outdoor Advertising
OP-22-014 – Contract Extension – Pattison Outdoor Advertising
OP-21-038 – Contract Extension – Pattison Outdoor Advertising
Background:
The City’s advertising agreement with Pattison Outdoor Advertising expired
on August 31, 2026. The agreement provided Pattison with the exclusive
rights to install and manage advertising on City transit bus shelters, at the
Transit Terminal, and on the interior and exterior of City transit buses.
The original agreement was for a 10-year term ending August 31, 2016, and
included extension provisions. Through subsequent extensions, in 2021,
Council approved a third amendment to extend the agreement to August 31,
2026.
As part of the previous extension, the City’s share of net revenue for bus
shelter, bus interior, and Transit Terminal advertising was increased from
25% to 32%. Revenue sharing for exterior bus advertising remained at 50%.
In addition to managing the advertising program, Pattison supplied and
installed nine transit shelters throughout the City, which have been
maintained by Pattison under the agreement.
Analysis and Options:
Staff are recommending a one-year extension of the existing agreement with
Pattison Outdoor Advertising, from September 1, 2026, to August 31, 2027,
to continue transit advertising for passengers.
The agreement provides the city with advertising on transit assets, generates
annual revenue, and avoids the costs of maintaining and potentially replacing
the nine transit shelters supplied by Pattison.
The proposed one-year extension would allow the existing agreement to
continue under its current terms while staff conduct a comprehensive review
in accordance with the City’s Agreement Development Policy. The review will
allow staff to assess the current arrangement, including the terms of the
Staff Report OP-26-044: Pattison Outdoor Advertising Amending Agreement
agreement, revenue-sharing provisions, operational requirements, and
overall value to the City.
Following the review, staff intend to consider a new agreement with Pattison
for transit advertising services, effective September 1, 2027.
Resource Alignment:
Financial Resources
The revenue generated from transit advertising helps offset the overall cost
of providing transit services.
Transit advertising revenue received by the City over the past three years:
2023: $26,137
2024: $22,498
2025: $29,051
Under the current revenue-sharing provisions, the City receives 32% of net
revenue from bus interior, bus shelter, and Transit Terminal advertising, and
50% of net revenue from exterior bus advertising.
Human Resources
N/A.
Time and Scheduling
Approval of the proposed extension will extend the agreement from
September 1, 2026, to August 31, 2027.
Technology and Infrastructure
N/A.
Climate and Environmental Impacts:
There are no anticipated climate or environmental impacts.
Communication and Engagement:
No public communication or engagement is required as a result of the
proposed extension.
Staff Report OP-26-044: Pattison Outdoor Advertising Amending Agreement
Report Developed in Consultation With:
Manager of Legislative Services
Purchasing and Claims Coordinator
Director, Leasing and Legislation Pattison Outdoor Advertising
Attachments:
None.
Reviewed by:
Mason Bellamy, Manager of Public Works and Engineering
Michelle Palmer, Interim Director of Public Works and Engineering
Submission approved by:
Tim Simmonds, City Manager
For more information on this report, please contact Heidi Jennen, Supervisor
of Environmental Services at hjennen@owensound.ca or 519-376-4440 ext.
3223.
Staff Report OP-26-044: Pattison Outdoor Advertising Amending AgreementThe agenda item addresses water and wastewater matters.
Agenda item 8.c: Water and Wastewater
The Operations Committee received a report from the Interim Director of Public Works and Engineering regarding the Water Metre Replacement Project update. Staff confirmed that Phase 1 installation is substantially complete with 98.69% of over 7,000 metres replaced by Neptune Technology Group. The project now enters Phase 2 to launch the Neptune My360 customer portal for real-time consumption data and leak alerts. Remaining accounts face a transition to monthly billing based on historical consumption after December 31, 2026.
The Operations Committee received a report from the Interim Director of Public Works and Engineering regarding the Water Meter Replacement Project update. Staff confirmed that Phase 1 installation is substantially complete with 98.69% of over 7,000 meters replaced by Neptune Technology Group. The project now enters Phase 2 to launch the Neptune My360 customer portal for real-time consumption data and leak alerts. Remaining accounts face a transition to monthly billing based on historical consumption after December 31, 2026.
The Interim Director of Public Works and Engineering recommends transitioning from a staggered three-month billing cycle to monthly billing cycles for water accounts to improve customer budgeting, increase conservation awareness, and allow earlier contact with customers regarding payment arrangements. The report notes that Phase 1 and 2 of the water meter replacement project are expected to be complete in November 2026.
Agenda item 8.c.1: Report OP-26-045 from the Interim Director of Public Works and Engineering Re: Water Meter Replacement Project Update
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Attachment: Water Meter Replacement Project Update - OP-26-045.pdf
Source: https://helpos.ca/attachments/5337ccc825986c39cc98c8fe4f092a7ab40ea8f0482ed7b232839f377cb49463/8-c-1-1-water-meter-replacement-project-update-op-26-045-pdf.pdf
Staff Report
Report To: Operations Committee
Report From: Michelle Palmer, Interim Director of Public Works and
Engineering
Meeting Date: September 24, 2026
Report Code: OP-26-045
Subject: Water Meter Replacement Project Update
Recommendations:
THAT in consideration of Staff Report OP-26-045 respecting the Water Meter
Replacement Project Update, the Operations Committee recommends that
City Council receive the report for information purposes.
Highlights:
The City has successfully completed Phase 1 of the Water Meter
Replacement Project, replacing 98.69% of more than 7,000 aging
water meters with modern, remotely read meters that improve
accuracy, reliability, and operational efficiency.
The project is now entering Phase 2 with the launch of the Neptune
My360 customer portal, providing residents with near real-time
water consumption data, leak alerts, and tools to better manage
water use and avoid unexpected bills.
The new metering system supports the City’s long-term goals of
water conservation, customer service excellence, and
modernization of municipal services.
Vision 2050 - Strategic Plan Alignment:
Strategic Plan Priority: Green and Resilient City - Strengthening the City’s
environmental, social, and economic ability to mitigate and adapt to the
Staff Report OP-26-045: Water Meter Replacement Project Update
climate crisis. Also, leveraging the city’s natural resources and infrastructure
to support healthy lifestyles.
Previous Report/Authority:
OP-24-023 3.A.5. - City-Wide Conversion of Radio Water Meters
CR-24-139 Award of RFP-24-016 – Water Meter Replacement Program
OP-25-027 Water Management By-law
OP-25-033 Water Management By-law
OP-25-043 Flat Rate Water Charge and Water-Related Fee Amendments
Background:
The water meter replacement project was identified during the 2023 Service
Review and subsequently approved as part of the 2024-2028 Capital Plan.
A comprehensive water meter replacement project ensures we meet our
legislative responsibility toward operational efficiency and water
conservation. The basic function of a water meter is to log the amount of
water consumed by the property to facilitate fair and accurate billing of water
services.
This project included the replacement of almost 7200 residential and
commercial water meters throughout the City that were past their useful life
and required a manual meter-reading system. The objective was to replace
the aging water meters with modern meters which have improved accuracy
and a water meter reading system that enables remote reads using Radio
Frequency (RF). The new metering technology enables remote
communication between individual water meters and the City.
The original timeline for the project was to undertake the procurement in
2023/2024, with the installation of the new water meters being completed in
2025.
The contract was awarded to Neptune Technology Group (Canada) Limited
for the supply and installation of the meters in December 2024 through a
competitive public procurement process. Meter installations began in April
2025, with substantial completion by Neptune in January 2026.
Staff Report OP-26-045: Water Meter Replacement Project Update
Challenges Experienced During Phase 1:
Gaining access to private property to install the new water meters was
identified early as a common challenge with this type of initiative. Providing
access to install a meter is mandatory under the City’s Water Management
By-law (By-law No. 2025-090), and overall customer cooperation was above
industry standards compared to other municipalities’ experiences.
One concern raised by some customers is that using RF to transmit water
consumption data to the City's servers may pose health risks or create a
potential for personal information to be breached. To address this concern,
the City worked closely with Neptune, which provided data showing that RF
levels from the water meters do not pose a health risk and that the
transmitted information contains no sensitive information.
Analysis and Options:
The project has reached substantial completion of Phase 1 (the installation
phase), with 98.69% (or 7,077 meters) of the meters replaced, and is now
entering Phase 2, which involves implementing an online system, Neptune
My360 Consumer Portal.
Final Completion of Phase 1 (Meter Replacement):
As part of the agreement, Neptune, the City's contractor, was responsible for
contacting all customers up to six times to arrange for an installation. Since
substantial completion of Phase 1 by Neptune, City staff have worked with
the remaining accounts to install new water meters. Since the beginning of
May 2026, Finance staff and Water Distribution staff have collaborated to
contact account holders and have installed 157 water meters. Currently, 94
water meters still need to be replaced. Staff have extended the contract with
Olameter (the service provider which completes manual readings) until
December 31, 2026. After that, the accounts will be billed based on historical
water consumption. For the remaining water meters, registered letters have
been sent to the account holders, with 23 letters being returned. Finance and
By-law staff are working together to hand-deliver those 23 letters by the end
of September. All accounts which have received a registered letter and have
not responded, or that confirm refusal to have the water meter replaced, will
be billed the administration fee of $50 per month on their next billing cycle in
accordance with the Fees and Charges by-law.
Staff Report OP-26-045: Water Meter Replacement Project Update
Ongoing Challenge:
The new water meters use an innovative chamber design with a nutating
disc. The chamber can only rotate as it fills and empties with water;
therefore, the register can move only when water is passing through.
Because the new water meters are more precise, some customers may have
noticed higher water usage on their bills.
Phase 2 Neptune My360 Portal:
The Neptune My360 portal gives customers real-time water usage data and
customizable water-use alerts. This will provide better awareness of potential
water losses, allowing residents to address issues before they become
significant problems. Key benefits of the Neptune My360 portal are:
Easily view and manage water usage 24 hours a day, 7 days a
week, 365 days a year;
Accessible from any desktop, laptop, tablet, or mobile device;
Ability to set out-of-town alerts to monitor consumption and detect
potential leaks; and
Enables the creation of water threshold alerts to set
a water budget, help save water, and eliminate bill surprises.
Neptune My360 will be accessed from a link on the City’s website, and to
activate a Neptune My360 account, customers will need their account
number and either their full name or street address.
Staff have been working with the service provider to configure the system
and soft-launched Neptune My360 in the summer of 2026. Neptune My360
will launch formally at the end of September, with ongoing communications
throughout the Fall and Winter to encourage customers to sign up and begin
using the portal.
Phase 3 Transition to Monthly Water Billing (Future):
Currently, the majority of water accounts are on a staggered three-month
billing cycle. This was due to the volume of manual reads required. By
shifting to the RF reads, the City can look at transitioning to monthly billing
cycles. Monthly bills are smaller and easier for customers to budget for
compared to receiving a larger bill every two or three months. More frequent
billing keeps water usage top of mind as customers can see the impact of
conservation efforts much faster and adjust their behaviour accordingly. For
the City, the benefits for monthly billing include improving cash flow and
lowering the accounts receivable risk as staff can contact customers earlier
Staff Report OP-26-045: Water Meter Replacement Project Update
and establish payment arrangements before balances become significant. As
staff work toward the development of a five-year plan for all projects
(operational and capital), the timing of Phase 3 will be determined.
Resource Alignment:
Financial Resources
$3,500,000 (funded through debenture) was approved in 2023 for the water
meter replacement project. The budget did not include a contingency. A
typical contingency is between 5-15% of a total project budget of this
nature. The project is approximately 4.5% over budget, with $3,658,000
spent, which will be incorporated into the debenture. No further costs are
expected for this project.
Human Resources
The follow-up required on the outstanding water meters to be replaced has
been labour-intensive for staff. To achieve our goal, the City plans to use
more direct engagement, along with continued application of billing based on
historic consumption and the application of fees in accordance with the Fees
and Charges by-law.
Time and Scheduling
Phase 1 and 2 of this project are expected to be considered fully complete in
November 2026.
Technology and Infrastructure
There are step-by-step videos to help customers activate the Neptune My360
portal access, and there will be ongoing customer support from the service
provider.
Climate and Environmental Impacts:
The implementation of the Neptune My360 online portal will enable
customers to detect leaks, manage and conserve water which supports
climate mitigation actions. In addition, by eliminating the use of meter
reading vehicles, there will be a reduction in emissions.
The recommendation supports the City's Climate Mitigation Plan.
Staff Report OP-26-045: Water Meter Replacement Project Update
Communication and Engagement:
The City’s water customers were significant stakeholders in this project and
therefore a comprehensive communications plan was developed. The City
and Neptune used a variety of communication tools to educate customers on
the Water Meter Replacement project, including the creation of a dedicated
project page on the Our City website, several direct mail letters, and
messaging in water bill statements.
For the launch of the Neptune My360 portal, communication tactics will focus
on educating residents about the benefits of the portal, including access to
near real-time water consumption information, leak detection alerts, and
enhanced visibility into household water use. External Communications will
emphasize resident empowerment, transparency, and self-service while
supporting the City's broader goals of customer service excellence,
responsible resource management, and modernization of municipal services.
Information to residents will be delivered through multiple channels,
including the City's website, social media, customer notices, and front-line
customer service resources to encourage widespread awareness,
registration, and ongoing use of the Neptune My360 portal.
Report Developed in Consultation With:
Manager of Finance, Director of Corporate Services, Water Distribution
Superintendent and the Manager of Water and Wastewater.
Attachments:
1. Attachment 1 – Overview of My360
Reviewed by:
Tim Simmonds, City Manager
Submission approved by:
Tim Simmonds, City Manager
For more information on this report, please contact Michelle Palmer, Interim
Director of Public Works and Engineering at mpalmer@owensound.ca or 519-
376-4440 ext. 1246.
Staff Report OP-26-045: Water Meter Replacement Project UpdateThe agenda item addresses engineering matters.
Agenda item 8.d: Engineering
The agenda item addresses environmental considerations.
Agenda item 8.e: Environment
Council postponed agenda items designated as matters.
Agenda item 9: MATTERS POSTPONED
The Council considered motions for which notice was previously given.
Agenda item 10: MOTIONS FOR WHICH NOTICE WAS PREVIOUSLY GIVEN
Council received correspondence provided for information.
Agenda item 11: CORRESPONDENCE PROVIDED FOR INFORMATION
Correspondence from resident Chantel Rogers highlights unsafe road conditions on 20th Street East near her home at 850 20th St. E., where potholes and lack of sidewalks endanger children walking to school or being pushed in a stroller.
Agenda item 11.a: Correspondence from Chantel Rogers, Owen Sound resident Re: 20th Street East - Road Conditions --- Attachment: Correspondence Re 20th St E Road Conditions.pdf Source: https://helpos.ca/attachments/cb0b3934b88c66a6371b0e24d72ce2840a734b63554c7846557e9f8ca4a58d56/11-a-1-correspondence-re-20th-st-e-road-conditions-pdf.pdf Christina McLean From: Christina McLean Sent: September 16, 2026 11:50 AM To: Christina McLean Subject: FW: Terrible road condition 20th St., East Owen South From: Chantel Rogers <chantelrogers93@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, September 10, 2026 10:53 AM To: Tim Simmonds <tsimmonds@owensound.ca> Cc: Brock Hamley <bhamley@owensound.ca>; Carol Merton <cmerton@owensound.ca>; Ian C Boddy <iboddy@owensound.ca>; Jon Farmer <jfarmer@owensound.ca> Subject: Terrible road condition 20th St., East Owen South Hi Tim, I am writing to you regarding my third complaint about the horre ndous road c onditions on 20t h St. E. in Owen Sound. I live at 850 20th St. E., and my kids cannot safely walk , bike, or be pushed in a stroller dow n the road due to the terrible road Hi Tim, I am writing to you regarding my third complaint about the horrendous road conditions on 20th St. E. in Owen Sound. I live at 850 20th St. E., and my kids cannot safely walk, bike, or be pushed in a stroller down the road due to the terrible road conditions. There is no sidewalk. My son, who is in Senior Kindergarten, catches the bus at 20th St. and 7th Avenue, and we are expected to walk along the road with no sidewalk and potholes throughout, while I am pushing my six-month-old in her stroller. It is extremely unsafe. My son has been trying to ride his bike multiple times throughout the summer, and he has become extremely frustrated because he cannot even safely ride his bike down our road. There have been times when I have had to walk in the middle of the road to avoid potholes while pushing the stroller. During these times, I receive extremely dirty looks from individuals in cars. But what else am I supposed to do? I pay an extensive amount in property taxes at my current residence, approximately $7,000 a year. To live on a busy road with no sidewalks and such poor and unsafe road conditions is extremely frustrating and, quite frankly, unacceptable. I noticed that the road was repaired at the very end, near 5th Avenue E. In comparison, that section of road was hardly in need of the same level of attention as 20th St. E. I would greatly appreciate it if you could look into this issue, especially now that the school year has started again and I am expected to walk up and down this road twice a day to get my child on and off the bus, all while pushing my six-month-old in a stroller. Thank you for your time and attention to this matter. Chantel
The Supervisor of Environmental Services provided a mid-year update on the Owen Sound Transit Dashboard showing that 116,450 riders boarded conventional buses from January to July 2026.
Agenda item 11.b: Correspondence from the Supervisor of Environmental Services Re: Owen Sound Transit Dashboard - Mid-Year Update
---
Attachment: OS Transit Dashboard Jan-July 2026.pdf
Source: https://helpos.ca/attachments/74e5bc216bc86cbb84249006a064a1f7a4718685d26998005305d265af196520/11-b-1-os-transit-dashboard-jan-july-2026-pdf.pdf
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---
Attachment: OST Transit Dashboard - Text.pdf
Source: https://helpos.ca/attachments/78933d417546fb923a393f9d11b240e9e1dda376501fa24d04974054848a7487/11-b-2-ost-transit-dashboard-text-pdf.pdf
OST Ridership Dashboard
From January 1 to July 31, 2026, 116,450 riders have boarded conventional transit
buses, an increase of 745 riders from 2025.
Conventional Transit Ridership
Month 2025 Riders 2026 Riders
Jan 17,340 15,512
Feb 11,383 15,041
Mar 16,527 17,181
Apr 17,076 17,499
May 18,421 17,141
Jun 17,652 17,128
Jul 17,398 16,950
Aug 16,146
Sept 17,283
Oct 17,081
Nov 17,491
Dec 16,154
Rider Distribution
Core Route – 24.8%
East Bayshore Route – 33.6%
Brooke Route – 25.1%
Crosstown Route – 16.6%
Bus Passes Sold in 2026
Adult passes – 299
Affordability passes – 836
Student/child pass – 311
Senior passes – 426
Day passes – 140
10-pass – 1,095
Total - 3,107
Riders Boarding and Disembarking by Hour:
Time Boarding Disembarking
6 AM 2.2% 1.9%
7 AM 4.7% 4.5%
8 AM 7.5% 7.6%
9 AM 9.2% 8.6%
10 AM 9.9% 9.5%
11 AM 10.1% 10.0%
12 PM 10.4% 10.6%
1 PM 11.2% 10.8%
2 PM 10.2% 10.1%
3 PM 10.1% 10.4%
4 PM 7.8% 8.4%
5 PM 5.2% 5.7%
6 PM 1.4% 1.8%
Bus Pass Revenue
Month 2025 Revenue 2026 Revenue
Jan $23,539.00 $23,648.00
Feb $22,599.00 $24,862.00
Mar $28,065.00 $27,940.00
Apr $20,987.00 $24,765.00
May $23,091.00 $21,559.00
Jun $25,826.00 $30,198.00
Jul $23,089.00 $22,403.00
Aug $22,128.00
Sept $30,289.00
Oct $22,088.00
Nov $23,803.00
Dec $23,279.00
Bus Fare Revenue
Month 2025 Revenue 2026 Revenue
Jan $5,251.00 $8,727.00
Feb $12,954.00 $3,806.00
Mar $9,427.00 $10,205.00
Apr $10,099.00 $8,547.00
May $17,182.00 $6,260.00
Jun $9,028.00 $16,207.00
Jul $14,044.00 $14,630.00
Aug $4,003.00
Sept $9,640.00
Oct $9,704.00
Nov $10,133.00
Dec $11,437.00
Mobility Transit Dashboard
Riders by Month
Month 2025 Riders 2026 Riders
Jan 368 408
Feb 302 397
Mar 363 452
Apr 379 408
May 381 375
Jun 406 430
Jul 387 414
Aug 394
Sept 398
Oct 465
Nov 415
Dec 374
Method of Payment
Tickets – 25%
Passes – 49%
Cash – 26%
The service has 590 registered users, and fewer than 1.5% of ride requests could not
be fully accommodated by dispatch.
Mobility Ridership Stats
Month Riders Service Walk- on Wheelchair Support
Hours Riders Riders Persons
January 408 289.5 314 94 59
February 397 270 311 86 65
March 452 294 378 74 40
April 408 294 329 79 47
May 375 312 328 47 28
June 430 294 364 66 47
July 414 294 364 50 53
Total 2,884 2,047.5 2,388 496 339The agenda item presents correspondence inviting residents to volunteer for City committees by applying online or requesting paper forms.
Agenda item 11.c: Correspondence from the Committee and Executive Support Coordinator Re: Committee Vacancies and Applications
---
Attachment: Committee Applications Poster.pdf
Source: https://helpos.ca/attachments/3b23a5aaed0a97e4aa5ae1d2decb1c66f3319173b029289d7f2f180de2b0dd19/11-c-1-committee-applications-poster-pdf.pdf
CARE FOR OUR
COMMUNITY
We're looking for volunteers to help us
make a difference! Community is not
built in the comment section, Owen
Sound needs your voice and ideas to
serve our incredible City!
Here are just a few reasons
to volunteer for a City Committee:
Meet new people and make new friends
Learn new skills and gain valuable
experience
Make a positive impact in
your community
Apply online at OwenSound.ca/CommitteeVacancies
clerks@owensound.ca “Building a vibrant Owen Sound is a shared
responsibility. Serving on a City Council committee is
a powerful way for residents to help shape our
519-376-4440 ext. 1235 community’s future.”
– Mayor Ian Boddy
808 2nd Ave E, Owen Sound
Paper applications available at City HallCouncil discussed additional business under agenda item 12.
Agenda item 12: DISCUSSION OF ADDITIONAL BUSINESS
Council considered notices of motion under agenda item 13.
Agenda item 13: NOTICES OF MOTION
Council adjourned the meeting.
Agenda item 14: ADJOURNMENT