Council Meeting - Regular Agenda Preview — May 11, 2026

Summary

One-sentence summary: The May 11, 2026 Council Meeting - Regular agenda includes Appointment of a By-law Enforcement Officer and Minutes of Boards and Committees for Receipt Bruce Grey Poverty Task Force meeting held on April 17, 2026.

On Tuesday, May 11, 2026, at 5:30 PM, City Council will consider reports addressing by-law enforcement adjustments and poverty mitigation strategies. Staff will propose shifting the By-law Enforcement Officer role from Natalie Mole to Stephen Thaiyil, authorizing a new student position designed to foster compliance through education rather than punishment. Additionally, the Council will review an amendment to remove the County of Wellington as a party to the GOST Funding Agreement, ensuring administrative clarity without altering funding levels. Simultaneously, the Bruce Grey Poverty Task Force will present minutes from its April 17 gathering, highlighting severe food insecurity where families require $1,250 monthly for groceries. Advocates will seek Council direction on tracking hidden costs for food services and expanding food rescue, while outlining plans to strengthen rental bylaws and form a Health Equity Action Group. The agenda aims to explore pathways toward permanent grocery benefits, potentially halving food insecurity by 2030, though some planned initiatives may face delays due to staffing constraints.

Top Newsworthy Developments

Key Topics & Sections

Full Transcript

2 CALL FOR ADDITIONAL BUSINESS

CALL FOR ADDITIONAL BUSINESS

3 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

4 CONFIRMATION OF THE COUNCIL MINUTES

CONFIRMATION OF THE COUNCIL MINUTES

6 PUBLIC MEETINGS There are no public meetings.

PUBLIC MEETINGS
There are no public meetings.

7 DEPUTATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS There are no deputations or presentations.

DEPUTATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
There are no deputations or presentations.

8 PUBLIC FORUM

PUBLIC FORUM

9 CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED FOR WHICH DIRECTION OF COUNCIL IS REQUIRED There are no correspondence items being presented for consideration.

CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED FOR WHICH DIRECTION OF COUNCIL IS
REQUIRED
There are no correspondence items being presented for consideration.

10 REPORTS OF CITY STAFF There are no reports of City staff.

REPORTS OF CITY STAFF
There are no reports of City staff.

11 CONSENT AGENDA

CONSENT AGENDA
11.a
Report CM-26-019 from the City Manager Re: Assignment of Lease Owen Sound Attack Inc. (Report to Follow)
11.b
Report CR-26-045 from the City Clerk Re: Appointment of a By-law
Enforcement Officer
11.c
Report OP-26-022 from the Supervisor of Environmental Services Re:
Administrative Amendment to By-law No. 2026-021 - Removal of the
County of Wellington from the Guelph to Owen Sound Transit (GOST)
Funding Agreement
11.d
Minutes of Boards and Committees for Receipt Re: Bruce Grey Poverty
Task Force meeting held on April 17, 2026
11.e
Minutes of Boards and Committees for Receipt Re: Grey Sauble
Conservation Authority meetings held on January 28, 2026, February
25, 2026, and March 25, 2026
11.f
Minutes of Boards and Committees for Receipt Re: Owen Sound
Police Service Board meeting held on March 18, 2026
11.g
Final approvals issued for the following Business Licences:
11.h
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Soothing Shores, a home-based mobile esthetician business
located at 551 18th Street A East
•
Hailey Thomson is the new owner of Riverside Yarns, a retail
yarn store located at 928 2nd Avenue East
•
Laura Sutherland, RMT, a massage therapy clinic has
relocated to 1051 2nd Avenue East, Unit 214
•
Mind Revitalized, a psychotherapy counselling service has
relocated to 945 3rd Avenue East, Unit 18B
•
Coture's Painting and Cleaning, a home-based painting and
cleaning business has relocated to 206 6th Avenue East
•
Soundside Skin & Wellness Studio, a medical aesthetics and
wellness clinic has relocated to 345 8th Street East, Suite 206
•
Annual Hawker and Peddler Licence issued to 2369232
Ontario Inc., a fireworks retailer at 1350 16th Street East
Final approvals issued for the following Flag Flying Requests:
•
11.i

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4.

CONFIRMATION OF THE COUNCIL MINUTES
4.a

Minutes of the Closed Session of the Regular Council meeting held on March 23,
2026

4.b

Minutes of the Regular Council meeting held on April 13, 2026

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Background:
The City has an Appointed Officers By-law that ensures all appointments are
in one place.

Analysis and Options:
The City hired a new By-law Enforcement Student (the “Student”) who will
be fostering compliance with regulatory by-laws through education,
awareness, promotion, advice, and enforcement. The term of this contract is
from April 27, 2026 until August 28, 2026.
To authorize the Student to enforce City regulatory by-laws, the Appointed
Officers By-law must be amended to remove the former appointee and
appoint the new Student. Accordingly, staff recommend that the Appointed
Officers By-law be amended as follows:
1.

Remove Natalie Mole as a By-law Enforcement Officer and a
Property Standards Officer; and

2.

Appoint Stephen Thaiyil as a By-law Enforcement Officer and a
Property Standards Officer for the term of their employment.

Resource Alignment:
Financial Resources
The By-law Enforcement Student position was approved through the 2026
budget.

Human Resources
N/A

Time and Scheduling
N/A.

Technology and Infrastructure
Existing systems and infrastructure are in place for this position.

Climate and Environmental Impacts:
There are no anticipated climate or environmental impacts.

Staff Report CR-26-045: Appointment of a By-law Enforcement Officer
Page 2 of 3

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Communication and Engagement:
The Appointed Officers By-law is available on the City’s website.

Report Developed in Consultation With:
By-law Enforcement Supervisor

Attachments:
None.
Reviewed by:
Kate Allan, Director of Corporate Services
Submission approved by:
Tim Simmonds, City Manager
For more information on this report, please contact Briana Bloomfield, City
Clerk at bbloomfield@owensound.ca or 519-376-4440 ext. 1247.

Staff Report CR-26-045: Appointment of a By-law Enforcement Officer
Page 3 of 3

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Staff Report
Report To:

City Council

Report From:

Heidi Jennen, Supervisor of Environmental Services

Meeting Date:

May 11, 2026

Report Code:

OP-26-022

Subject:

Administrative Amendment to By-law No. 2026-021 –
Removal of the County of Wellington from the Guelph
Owen Sound Transit (GOST) Funding Agreement

Recommendations:
THAT in consideration of Staff Report OP-26-022 respecting an
Administrative Amendment to By-law No. 2026-021, City Council directs staff
to bring forward a by-law to amend By-law No. 2026-021 to remove the
County of Wellington as a party to the Guelph Owen Sound Transit (GOST)
funding agreement.

Highlights:


An administrative update to the by-law is required to reflect a change
in parties to the GOST funding agreement; there is no impact to terms
or funding of the Agreement.

Vision 2050 - Strategic Plan Alignment:
Strategic Plan Priority: A City that Moves – Facilitating sustainable
transportation options and creating community connectivity.

Previous Report/Authority:
Report OP-26-001 - Continuation of Guelph Owen Sound Transit (GOST) post
March 31, 2026
Staff Report OP-26-022: Administrative Amendment to By-law No. 2026-021 –
Removal of the County of Wellington from the Guelph Owen Sound Transit (GOST)
Funding Agreement
Page 1 of 3

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By-law No. 2026-021 – A By-law to authorize the Mayor and Clerk to execute
a Funding Agreement with The Corporation of the County of Grey and The
Corporation of the County of Wellington respecting the Guelph Owen Sound
Transit (GOST)

Background:
At the Council meeting held on March 9, 2026, By-law No. 2026-021 was
approved to authorize a funding agreement for GOST with both the County of
Grey and the County of Wellington as participating parties. Since that time, a
separate agreement has been established between the County of Grey and
the County of Wellington. As a result, the tri-party agreement is no longer
required. An agreement is required solely between the City and the County
of Grey.

Analysis and Options:
The proposed amendment is administrative in nature and does not alter the
terms, conditions, or intent of the funding agreement. The only change is the
removal of the County of Wellington as a participating party.
This amendment is considered a minor housekeeping matter to ensure the
agreement accurately reflects the current arrangement.

Resource Alignment:
Financial Resources
N/A.

Human Resources
N/A.

Time and Scheduling
N/A.

Technology and Infrastructure
N/A.

Staff Report OP-26-022: Administrative Amendment to By-law No. 2026-021 –
Removal of the County of Wellington from the Guelph Owen Sound Transit (GOST)
Funding Agreement
Page 2 of 3

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Climate and Environmental Impacts:
There are no anticipated climate or environmental impacts.

Communication and Engagement:
This report has been posted to the City’s website with the agenda in advance
of the meeting.

Report Developed in Consultation With:
City Clerk, Manager of Legislative Services

Attachments:
None.
Reviewed by:
Lara Widdifield, 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 519-376-1440 ext.
3223.

Staff Report OP-26-022: Administrative Amendment to By-law No. 2026-021 –
Removal of the County of Wellington from the Guelph Owen Sound Transit (GOST)
Funding Agreement
Page 3 of 3

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Bruce Grey Poverty Task Force
Minutes, 17 April 2026
10am-11:00 am via Zoom
•

Welcome and Land Acknowledgement

We acknowledge that the land we are meeting on is the traditional territory on the traditional territory of the Anishnaabek Nation.
We acknowledge that we are Treaty People under Treaties 45 ½ and 72. These treaty agreements are still in place with obligations.
We give thanks to the Chippewas of Saugeen First Nation and the Chippewas of Neyaashinigmiing Unceded First Nation, collectively known as
Saugeen Ojibway Nation and their ancestors as the traditional keepers of this land and water. We also recognize the traditional homeland of the
Metis Nation.
In 2015, our Food Security Action Group looked at the values and principles of working together on addressing food insecurity. We started with the
creation of a Grey Bruce Food Charter. https://povertytaskforce.com/food-security/bruce-grey-food-charter/
The charter is a community declaration of our shared values around food. It sets out the principles that should guide local food policy and
decision-making, emphasizing:
▪
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Health & Nutrition
Local Food Production & Sustainable Agriculture
Education & Food Literacy
Environmental Stewardship
Social Justice & Equity
Economic Development rooted in Food Systems
Respect for Cultural Food Traditions

Food sovereignty is a key part of the work Indigenous peoples are undertaking to strengthen food security in their communities.
In Canada, colonization has impacted Indigenous peoples’ control of local food systems, both historically and in the present. The involuntary
intrusion of external policies and practices into Indigenous ways of life led to the strict regulation or banning of harvesting, hunting, gardening, and
most cultural and spiritual practices. This has led to a loss of access to traditional foods and has eroded generationally passed knowledge about
food practices in Indigenous communities, which have both contributed to higher rates of food insecurity.

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Food sovereignty is the right of peoples to define their own food and agriculture systems that allow them autonomy over the production of healthy,
culturally appropriate food. It shifts away from thinking about food as something to be bought and sold, and toward the idea that food is a human
right.

2026 Collective Impact Framework – Food Security
We reviewed the 2026 Collective Impact Framework with a focus on the work of food security.

Increase access to nutritious food by 1) contributing to the governance, sustainability and promotion of the Grey Bruce Good Food Box,
2) supporting community food hubs and 3) supporting Grey Bruce Food Share/Food Rescue program expansion and 4) development of
disaster management plans.
Strengthen food diversity in community food banks/meal programs.
Advocate for income solutions to food insecurity in municipal election education and public awareness campaign.
Food Security Data – Jill Umbach
Current data on food insecurity and economic challenges in the region, setting the context for the meeting's focus on food security.
•
•
•
•
•
•

18.3% of Grey Bruce households experienced food insecurity between 2021-2023, an increase from 17.5% in 2020
A family of four needed $1,250/month for groceries in 2024
50% of Grey Bruce households earn less than $72,500 after tax
Grey Bruce living wage is $24.60 in 2025, second highest after GTA
Women earn 31.3% less than men in Grey Bruce (69 cents to the dollar)
ODSP rate is $1,408/month and OW rate is $733/month for individuals

Conclusion: 1) Significant income gaps exist between living wage requirements and social assistance rates, 2) food insecurity is increasing in Grey
Bruce and 3) economic disparities affect ability to afford groceries.

OSHaRE Programs and Services Overview – Colleen Seaman Trask, OSHaRE
Colleen Trask Seaman presented comprehensive updates on OSHaRE's programs, including community meals, school lunch program, and Family Meal
Assist program. From 2013-2022 (10 years), OSHaRE served 457,057 meals; from 2023-2025 (3 years), served 686,546 meals. As of January 24, 2026,
already served more meals than all of 2019. March 2026 was highest month ever with 34,000 meals, a 42% increase over March 2025. 140 volunteers
support the programs along with 7 full-time staff. Community meal program serves meals twice daily, Monday to Saturday, no questions asked. School

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lunch program provides lunches to children across Grey Bruce in partnership with local schools. Family Meal Assist program started May 2024, now
supporting over 425 families weekly and is the fastest growing program. Families can access fresh produce, frozen casseroles, baby formula, milk,
diapers, and school lunch supplies. Majority of families are working families referred by government agencies. Purchased generator in 2025 to ensure
facility can operate during power outages.
Conclusion: 1) Dramatic increase in demand for food assistance across all programs. 2) Working families are increasingly needing food support, and 3)
OSHaRE has expanded services to meet growing community need.

Grey Bruce Food Share Program and Expansion
Colleen presented details about the Grey Bruce Food Share program and the new regional food depot being built.
Grey Bruce Food Share started during pandemic in OSHaRE dining room. Now serves 30 community partner agencies across Grey Bruce (updated
from 28). Rescued 202.5 tonnes of food from landfill last year. Partner agencies must be non-profit, use food non-profitably, and register with
Second Harvest. Started pilot project in November receiving skids of food from Second Harvest in Etobicoke. Initially received 8 skids every 2
weeks, pilot went well. OSHaRE committed to raising $350,000 to build 2,700 square foot regional food depot. New depot will have 24x17 foot walkin cooler and freezer with skid doors. Will receive 10 skids weekly from Second Harvest plus local producer donations. Gordon's Food Service has
come on board sending free skids of food. Depot will be generator-supported for power outages. Expected completion in 4 weeks. Grey Bruce Food
Share location being reorganized for bulk case lots and warehouse shelving.
Conclusion 1) Significant infrastructure investment to increase food access across region, 2) partnership with Second Harvest providing substantial
food volumes and 3) system designed for sustainability and emergency preparedness.
Impact on Children and Families
Discussion on how food insecurity affects children's education and family wellbeing.
Recently had many parents contacting about struggling to send kids to school without lunch. Kids not going to school because they don't have
lunch. One mother in tears because she was sick and couldn't pick up school lunch supplies. School lunch program families are from across Grey
Bruce, not just schools they partner with. Stated those kids are future workforce and if not supported will stay in OW and ODSP cycles. If whole
region is healthy, everyone is healthy. Food insecurity affects health of workforce which eventually affects economic development of region.
Important to educate people that vicious cycle affects everybody, not just those experiencing food insecurity.

https://www.rockthebruce.ca/2026/04/07/community-groups-come-together-in-region-to-alleviate-food-insecurity/

Conclusion: 1) Children are missing school due to lack of food, 2) food insecurity has intergenerational and economic development impacts and 3)
supporting children's food security is investment in future workforce.

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Transportation and Fuel Cost Impacts
Discussion focused on how rising fuel costs are affecting food programs and the broader community.
Fuel charge for trucking food from Second Harvest in Etobicoke increased from $200 three weeks ago to $320 this week. This was not budgeted
but food value exceeds fuel costs. Concerned grocery stores will pass diesel fuel surcharges to consumers. Noticed milk increased 15 cents
overnight. Northwestern Ontario has tax credit for living above certain line due to transportation costs and it was questioned why Grey Bruce doesn't
receive similar rural area support. Rising gas prices affect cost to get to work and overall cost of living. Utility costs including hydro bills have
increased significantly since September/October rate hikes.
Conclusion 1) Transportation costs are rapidly increasing and impacting food programs, 2) rural areas face additional cost burdens not recognized
in policy and 3) there is a need for better tracking and documentation of true costs.
Recommended action: Fuel costs and operational expenses behind "free food" need to be tracked and documented.
Advocacy Opportunities and Strategies
Extensive discussion on advocacy needs around food pricing, income supports, and rural challenges.
Raised concept of surveillance pricing of retailers to stop predatory pricing, similar to movement in United States. Emphasized need to dispel rural
myth that free food exists. Emphasized importance of advocacy because rural areas are forgotten child in Ontario. Compared to Northwestern
Ontario reserves with high food prices. Suggested comparing Grey Bruce data to neighboring regions like Waterloo to show differences. Advocacy
is important but immediate need is feeding hungry people today. Concerns were raised about the tip of the iceberg with gas price impacts. Agreed
fuel pricing should be higher priority for discussion. Emphasized importance of documenting data behind free food including volunteer hours and
operational costs. Noted ROMA and AMO haven't been advocating much on these points. Highlighted that charitable admin costs (hydro, gas,
maintenance, staff) are often undervalued. United Way had $42,000 deficit because provided $50,000 more in utility assistance due to need.
Conclusion: 1) Multiple advocacy opportunities identified at federal, provincial, and municipal levels, 2) need for consistent messaging with factual
data about true costs, 3) group will develop submissions and infographics for various audiences and 4) free food is not free and true costs need
documentation.
Data Collection and Reporting – “Free Food is Not Free”
Discussion on importance of data collection and challenges with current systems.

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Emphasized importance of tracking volunteer hours, fuel costs, and all expenses behind free food. Data critical for impact analysis to show what's
behind what looks bright and rosy. Stated data is key and comparisons are most powerful. Public Health is working with Ministry of Health on food
basket costing challenges. Noted Food Bruce Grey data should be mostly updated. Acknowledged reliance on old data and challenges with realtime data collection. Inquired about Tara Food Bank being included back in database for reporting
Conclusion: 1) Need for better tracking and documentation of true costs, 2) data essential for advocacy and demonstrating impact and 3) some
challenges exist with current data collection systems.
Existing data and advocacy:
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Food Bruce Grey Municipality Statistics https://www.foodbrucegrey.com/all-dashboards up-to-date to the end of 2025.
Poverty, Voting & Elections (Municipal) https://povertytaskforce.com/open-letter-to-provincial-candidates/
PTF Income solutions to food insecurity https://povertytaskforce.com/food-security/income-solutions-to-food-insecurity/
Grey Bruce Public Health Food Availability and Food Security https://www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca/Your-Health/Eating-Well/FoodAffordability-and-Food-Insecurity

Action: Suggested creating food fact sheet on “Free Food is not Free” costing with consistent messaging for all to share. What is the cost of free
food, how essential it is to get to community members, but that it is not just “free”.
Action: Suggested creating food fact sheet infographic on current costing to share with politicians, AMO, ROMA, Western Caucus, and MPPs.
Action: Suggested asset mapping process to document entire food supply chain with monetary values
Action: Noted Standing Committee on Finance pre-budget consultations are underway with deadline April 30, 2026. Recommendation that Poverty
Task Force prepare a submission and it should be shared with MPPs and local municipalities/counties.
Food Literacy and Nutritional Considerations
Discussion on the importance of nutritional quality and food education alongside food access.
Emphasized need for science behind food intake and food literacy as pillar of food sovereignty. Noted protein is highest price while carbs and higher
sugar items are cheaper. Concerned about long-term health impacts of food choices driven by cost. Suggested considering local food and local
sovereignty advantages. An update from Grey Bruce Public Health on the calculation of the nutritious food basket costing - no longer have dietitians
on staff to complete exercise, however, they are working with Ministry of Health, Ontario Dietitians in Public Health, and Public Health Ontario to find
solutions. Jason: Typically done in May but uncertain if pieces will be in place this year. The nutritious food basket costing uses a standard formula
and predetermined items to track. Previously, the Public Health dietitian would select locations across Grey Bruce and record prices.

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Conclusion: 1) Nutritional quality is important consideration alongside food access, 2) food basket costing may not happen this year due to
resource constraints and 3) need to balance immediate food needs with long-term health outcomes.
Income Solutions to Food Security
Discussion on inadequacy of current income support levels and need for increases.
Ontario Works rates are lower now than 30 years ago. Need for discretionary benefits increasing but Grey County has tightened eligibility. Lowincome seniors no longer qualify for discretionary benefits. Single person going from OW to ODSP almost doubles monthly income (from $733 to
$1,408). Need to advocate for increasing social assistance rates and benefits for low-income seniors.
Jill Umbach presented advocacy recommendations including making permanent and strengthening Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit from
Right to Food. Right to Food Policy/Advocacy - https://righttofood.ca/policy-and-advocacy/.
Recommended also strengthening Canada Disability Benefit and streamlining application process. Noted family of four could get up to $1,890/year
under new benefit but it replaced GST benefit. Suggested addressing gap between minimum wage and living wage as a start. Emphasized need to
shift from remedial mode to developmental mode.
Conclusion: 1) Current social assistance rates are inadequate and have not kept pace with costs, 2) discretionary benefits have been reduced
when need is increasing and 3) multiple income security improvements needed at federal and provincial levels.

Non-profit Grocery Store Pilot (Toronto) –feasibility on Grey Bruce
Discussion on government-run grocery stores, free market failures and how community design affects food access and transportation costs.
Advocated for building dense, tightly knit, walkable communities. Walkability allows people to walk to grocery store and home without burning gas. Grey
Highlands and Markdale have opportunity to build with walkability in mind. Need to shift focus and get ahead of food deserts. Noted walkability does not
exist in most of Grey Bruce outside Owen Sound and Port Elgin. Most areas have one grocery store in village with people driving in. Food desert areas
exist with limited grocery store competition. Eat Local Grey Bruce food cooperative was a non-profit, local sourced food and it succeeded during COVID
but people weren't willing to pay higher prices afterwards.
Conclusion: 1) Walkable community design can reduce transportation costs and improve food access, 2) opportunity exists in growing municipalities to
plan for walkability, and 3) current reality is most of Grey Bruce lacks walkable access to groceries.

Grey Bruce Good Food Box Program
Brief discussion on Grey Bruce Good Food Box as cost-effective produce option.

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Good Food Box uses bulk purchasing to bring down food costs. However, it relies on volunteers and has not raised price yet in 2026. Driver who
goes to Toronto food terminal has not increased prices but may need to adjust. Monitoring transportation costs and trying to keep price at $25 per
box. Encouraged organizations to utilize and promote Good Food Box with families. Suggested helping get word out about Good Food Box as more
cost-effective produce resource.
Conclusion: 1) Grey Bruce Good Food Box provides affordable produce option, 2) transportation costs being monitored to maintain affordability
and 3) need for increased promotion and utilization.

Action Items
•

Poverty Task Force/Food Security Action Group
o Develop submission for Standing Committee on Finance pre-budget consultations (Deadline: April 30, 2026)
o Create food fact sheet infographic on current food costing and true costs of free food for sharing with politicians, AMO, ROMA,
Western Caucus, and MPPs.
o Develop municipal election education materials and public awareness campaign on income solutions to food insecurity.
o Work with OSHaRE to document costs behind free food including transportation, utilities, and volunteer hours.
o Consider asset mapping process to document food supply chain with monetary values.
o Coordinate smaller working group from Food Security Action Group for advocacy development.
o Connect with Grey Bruce Public Health regarding food basket costing tools and data.
o Follow up with Dana on wage analysis data
o Prepare draft advocacy materials for review

Data Collection
o
o
o
o

Recirculate link to Food Bruce Grey with meeting minutes.
Robin Cork to follow up with Mary Louise from Tara Food Bank regarding database access question.
4County Labour Planning Board to review local labour market plan data for wage trends post-COVID support programs and discuss
findings with staff.
Track organizational fuel costs, utility costs, and volunteer hours for documentation

Partner Promotion:
o

o

Register for Healthy Communities Partnership Conference April 27-28 if interested. Registration has been extended.
https://publichealthgreybruce.on.ca/About-Us/News-Releases/ArtMID/2193/ArticleID/204/Join-the-Conversation-Register-for-2026Healthy-Communities-Conference
Promote Grey Bruce Good Food Box program with families and organizations https://unitedwayofbrucegrey.com/good-food-box/

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Action Arising from Previous Meetings:
Action: Are there advocacy opportunities including the Poverty Task Force sending a letter of concern to MPPs and support protesting students.
Action: Follow up with Carol Merton regarding research on financial support for post-secondary education and outcomes for those on low and
modest incomes. Provide local data information if available.
Action: it was suggested that organizations advocate to MPP Vickers to have the Ministry gift the old hospital property to AHIGH.

Next PTF Meeting Date: June 19th, 2026, 10am-11am. Food Security Action Group in-person meeting at depot on May 29, 2026 (specific
invitations sent)

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BRUCE

GREY
FOOD
CHARTER

A guiding document to assist in the
development of policies and programs
to promote a healthy food system in
Grey and Bruce Counties. The Charter
acknowledges the right for all to food.

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THE
CHARTER
In acknowledgement of the basic
right to food, the Charter is a
commitment to work together to
build a vibrant, sustainable, food
secure community. Based on
community participation, a
sustainable local food system
will prioritize health, social
justice, education, economic
development, the environment,
and culture.

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Public policy that recognizes food‘s contribution to
physical, mental, spritual, and emotional well-being

BECAUSE WE VALUE

Making food readily accessible for our rural and urban
residents, including adequate transportation links,
neighbourhoods that encourage walkable and
bikeable access to healthy food

WE SUPPORT

Strategies to prevent and manage chronic diseases
through access to affordable, healthy, safe, adequate,
and culturally appropriate food

HEALTH

Baby friendly policies that protect, promote, and
support breastfeeding through informed decision
making

Making sure everyone has access to healthy food

BECAUSE WE VALUE

SOCIAL JUSTICE
WE SUPPORT

A fair wage for the production of food, and a safe
and respectful environment for all farmers and food
workers
Making land accessible for anyone interested in food
production
Income, education, employment, housing, and
transportation policies and practices that support
access to healthy, sustainable food

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Celebrating and promoting respect for and inclusion of
traditional, cultural, and spriritual food diversity

BECAUSE WE VALUE

CULTURE

WE SUPPORT

Enhancing the dignity and joy of growing, preparing,
and eating food
Strengthening links between rural and urban
communities
Opportunities for all community members to be
included and to make connections through the experience and sharing food.

Food literacy initiatives that engage youth and
students integrated in school curricula

BECAUSE WE VALUE

EDUCATION
WE SUPPORT

Programs that train current and future farmers, home
gardeners, food producers, and others involved in the
food value chain
Integrating food literacy and community gardening
into communities
Developing community gardens at schools and other
public settings
Public education about the connections between our
health, the environment, and our food choices
Public awareness of the role of agriculture in our lives

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The production, processing, distribution, and
consumption of local foods

BECAUSE WE VALUE
SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC

DEVELOPMENT
WE SUPPORT

Promoting our region as a food, agricultural, and
culinary destination
Food and agricultural research that is innovative,
sustainable, and includes alternative food systems
Services that support local farms and the
development of local food related programs and
businesses
Practices that recognize the detrimental impact
of food transportation and strive to minimize
environmental burden

BECAUSE WE VALUE

ENVIRONMENT
WE SUPPORT

Farming practices that protect the watersheds and
wildlife habitat
Food production methods that sustain the natural
environment in rural and urban settings
Sustainable development of agriculture, water, land
use policies and practices that support the production
of healthy food

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OUR VISION
REDUCE AND ELIMINATE POVERTY IN OUR
COMMUNITY

OUR PURPOSE

FACILITATE COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS TO ADVOCATE
FOR POVERTY REDUCTON AND ELIMINATION

JOIN THE GREY BRUCE POVERTY TASK FORCE

CONNECT

The Bruce Grey Poverty Task Force focuses on building partnerships with key
community stakeholders and networks; working together to eliminate poverty,
enhancing our common understanding of poverty issues through solution-based
research, knowledge development, and information sharing.

Jill Umbach				
Planning Network Coordinator		
Bruce Grey Poverty Task Force		
519-377-9406
jill.umbach@gmail.com

United Way of Bruce Grey
380 9th Street East, Owen Sound
N4K 1P1

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January 2026

Collective Impact Framework
Our collective impact efforts seek to inform policies and support upstream interventions to address
poverty-related community issues. Together we have a common agenda, mutually reinforcing
activities, continuous communication and backbone infrastructure.

1

Collective Action
The Poverty Task Force is made up of 90+ organizations that work
across priority sectors to reinforce activities that contribute to
reducing poverty.

2

Principles
Create safe spaces for meaningful exchange to build resiliency,
hold space and build collaboration for poverty reduction solutions.

3

Build Better Relations
Be guided by the Truth & Reconciliation Call to Action and
OFIFC principles to build better relations and systems.

4

Data Driven
Collect and report on local data on social determinants of health,
including housing/homelessness, food insecurity, employment and
income.

5

Advocacy and Policy
Mobilize networks and government representatives to put poverty
reduction - income, housing and food security; health equity, and
justice at the top of their policy agendas.

Page 35 of 273

2026 COLLECTIVE ACTION
Key Principles for all collective action shall have:
A Diversity, Equity and Inclusion(DEI) lens embedded into all aspects
Include all priority populations, whenever possible
Support Indigenous-led initiatives

A trauma- and violence-informed approach
A cultural safety/anti-racism lens
A harm reduction/substance use approach

Housing Security
Strengthen partnership with City of Owen Sound on data sharing/mapping/analysis on rental housing standards. Lead on
promoting the adoption of stronger mould bylaws, Vital Services and renovictions bylaws as recommended by Rentsafe OS
Tenant-Landlord Survey and RentSafe Ontario/Ontario Public Health Association.
Contribute to RentSafe Ontario climate feasibility study on rental housing in rural communities as part of larger RentSafe
Ontario study on building resiliency. Contribute to hosting one Climate Resilience Intersectoral Roundtable in 2026.
Raise awareness on income solutions to affordable and accessible housing.

Income Security
Lead the Grey Bruce Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) Network to promote free tax filing to increase income
and access to support benefits of Grey Bruce residents. Manage GB CVITP Network volunteer recruitment in partnership with
211 and host one annual meeting. Host a series of Seniors Financial Literacy webinars with seniors’ community hubs and
social workers.
Contribute to Grey Bruce Living Wage calculation in partnership with Ontario Living Wage Network and promote. Address
precarious employment, promote universal, affordable daycare, deeply affordable housing and public transportation.

Food Security
Increase access to nutritious food by 1) contributing to the governance, sustainability and promotion of the Grey
Bruce Good Food Box, 2) supporting community food hubs and 3) Grey Bruce Food Share/Food Rescue program
expansion and 4) development of disaster management plans.
Strengthen food diversity in community food banks/meal programs.
Advocate for income solutions to food insecurity in municipal election education and public awareness campaign.

Health Equity
Lead new Health Equity Action Group with health sector stakeholders and identify evidence-based interventions to increase
access and equitable health outcomes for equity-deserving populations (i.e. 2SLGBTQ+, newcomers, Black and Indigenous
communities).
Manage BGDISC and ensure poverty-related/Social Determinants of Health data is available on this Grey Bruce open-data
portal. Collection, analysis and use of data for decision-making and understanding health equity.
Contribute to data collection for Vital Signs Report to be released in 2026.

Community Voices
Ensure Community Voices group are active in 2026 and contributing lived experience to all PTF actions and advocacy.
Develop municipal election 2026 education campaign and advocacy.
Increase municipal-level engagement as Action Table of the Community Safety & Well-Being Plan Grey Bruce and
provincial and national-level engagement as a member of Tamarack Institute, Campaign 2000 and Right to Food.

Page 36 of 273

Food Security
POVERTY TASK FORCE MEETING
17 APRIL 2026

Page 37 of 273

The Data for 2025
▪ 18.3% of HHs in GB experienced food insecurity between 2021
and 2023; an increase from 17.5% in 2020
▪ A family of 4 needed $1,250/month for groceries in 2024.

▪ 50% of GB HHs earn less than $72,500 (after tax).
▪ In GB, men earned on average $42,000/year while women earned
$32,000/year (31.3% less than men or 69 cents to the dollar)
▪ Grey Bruce Living Wage is $24.60 in 2025.
▪ ODSP rate for individual $16,896/year ($1,408/month) + benefits
▪ OW rate for individual $8,796/year ($733/month) + benefits
Page 38 of 273

Tracking How Much Food is Filling Bellies

OSHaRE presentation

Page 39 of 273

Good News – but is it?

Page 40 of 273

Advocacy Opportunities
The Standing Committee on Finance has launched its pre-budget consultations in
advance of the 2026 budget. Written submissions can be submitted to the committee
until Thursday, April 30, 2026.
Right to Food - Rooted in Community: Advancing Income Security and Indigenous Food
Sovereignty in Canada recommendations:

▪ Set national targets to cut household food insecurity in half and end severe food
insecurity by 2030.
▪ Make permanent and strengthen the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit to
provide adequate financial support to adults 18 to 64 with low and modest incomes.
▪ Strengthen the Canada Disability Benefit and streamline the application process to
lift all people with disabilities out of poverty and food insecurity.
▪ Advance Indigenous food sovereignty by funding salaried land-based roles and
providing multi-year, flexible core funding for Indigenous-led food systems.
Page 41 of 273

Election Education: Income solutions to food insecurity

Page 42 of 273

Page 43 of 273

Protect.
Respect.
Connect.

GREY SAUBLE CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
MINUTES
Annual General Meeting & Full Authority Board of Directors
Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at 1:15 p.m.
The Grey Sauble Conservation Authority (GSCA) Board of Directors’ meeting was held in a hybrid
format of in-person at the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Administrative Office and virtually via
the meeting application, WebEx.
1.

Call to Order

Chair Robert Uhrig called the meeting to order at 1:17 p.m., welcomed all those present in person
and virtually and provided a land acknowledgment.
Directors Present In-Person: Chair Robert Uhrig, Vice Chair Nadia Dubyk, Jon Farmer, Scott
Mackey, Tony Bell, Scott Greig, Rick Winters, Jennifer Shaw, Alex Maxwell
Directors Present Virtually: Kathy Durst, Tobin Day
Regrets:
Staff Present: CAO, Tim Lanthier; Administrative Assistant, Valerie Coleman; Manager of Information
Services, Gloria Dangerfield; Manager of Financial and Human Resource Services, Alison Armstrong;
Water Resources Coordinator, John Bittorf; DWSP Coordinator, Carl Seider; Manager of
Environmental Planning, MacLean Plewes; Environmental Educator, Chelsea Viera
Guests In-Person: Don Sankey, Dick Hibma, Al Wilcox, Erik Downing, Nancy Brown, Sue Carleton,
Randy Scherzer, Sonya Skinner, Chris Fell
Guest Virtual: Chris Coutre
2.

Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest

The Directors were reminded to disclose any pecuniary interest that may arise during the course of
the meeting. No disclosures of pecuniary interest were expressed at the time.
3.

Call for Additional Agenda Items
Nothing at this time.

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4.

Adoption of Agenda

Motion No.:
FA-26-001

Jon Farmer
Rick Winters

THAT the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board of Directors approve the agenda of
January 28, 2026.

5.

Remarks from the Chair

Chair Robert Uhrig provided some remarks.
“I stand here today with a deep sense of gratitude, humility, and pride. Serving as Chair of the Board
of the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority has been one of the great privileges of my professional
and public service life.
First and foremost, I want to thank the GSCA staff. Your expertise, dedication, and commitment to
the protection and stewardship of our watershed are the backbone of this organization. Day in and
day out, you bring science, professionalism, and passion to your work – often behind the scenes,
often in challenging conditions, and always with the long-term health of our natural environment in
mind. The success and credibility of the Authority rest squarely on your shoulders, and I am sincerely
grateful for everything you do.
To that end, the utmost thanks must go to CAO Lanthier. Your tireless professionalism, dedication
and demeanour make you one of the most effective and well-respected leaders I have had the
pleasure of working with. On behalf of Vice-Chair Dubyk, the Board, and myself, thank you for
making our tasks easier and enjoyable.
To our volunteers, thank for your generosity of time, energy, and heart. Conservation work cannot
succeed without people who care deeply enough to give back without expectation of recognition.
Whether you were restoring habitat, education the public, supporting programs, or lending your skills
where needed, your contribution has made a tangible and lasting difference across the Grey Sauble
watershed. Our communities are strong because of you.
To my fellow Board Members, past and present, thank you all for your support, your trust, and your
dedication during my time as Chair. It has been an honour to serve alongside you. You brought
diverse perspectives, thoughtful debate, and a shared commitment to responsible governance.
Together, we navigated complex issues, balanced environment protection with community needs,
and made decisions that we believed were in the best interest of both present and future generations.
Your willingness to ask hard questions, collaborate respectfully, and keep the mission front and
centre has been truly inspiring.
I also want to acknowledge our municipal partners and stakeholders. Conservation is a collective
effort, and your collaboration and support have been essential in helping us move forward on shared
goals.
The challenges facing conservation are real: climate change, development pressures, and evolving
community expectations just to name a few. However, no challenge is greater than Bill 68. I will not
dwell on the proposed amalgamation as it has already been and will continue to be a vital topic of
concern. I will say, this is obviously a time of uncertainty, and as I step away from this role, I do so
having great confidence that, if the province does live up to its promise to at least keep regional
administration intact, then the future of our region is in good hands.
2

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In closing, to the incoming Chair, I wish you every success and look forward to continuing to support
the important work of the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority in whatever ways I can.
Vice Chair Nadia Dubyk provided some remarks and gave thanks to the GSCA staff, fellow Board
Members, and municipal partners. Ms. Dubyk emphasized the great work that GSCA does in the
community.

6.

Greetings from Guests
•

Erik Downing – Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority
•

•

Sue Carleton – Township of Georgian Bluffs
•

•

Mr. Coutre expressed thanks for the invitation and the hard work that GSCA staff does
and looks forward to working in partnership with GSCA in the future.

Sonya Skinner – Town of Collingwood
•

•

Mayor Carleton brough greetings, thanks and remarks on behalf of the staff and
Council of the Township of Georgian Bluffs. Mayor Carleton expressed appreciation of
the beautiful area in which we all live.

Chris Coutre – Great Lakes Metis
•

•

CAO Erik Downing brought greetings, thanks and remarks on behalf of the staff and
Board of the Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority. Mr. Downing expressed
congratulations to GSCA on a successful 2025.

CAO Sonya Skinner brought greetings, thanks and remarks on behalf of the staff and
Council of the Town of Collingwood. Ms. Skinner expressed understanding of the
challenges that Conservation Authorities face and looks forward to continue working
with GSCA moving forward.

Randy Scherzer – Grey County
•

CAO Randy Scherzer brought greetings, thanks and remarks on behalf of the staff
and Council of the County of Grey. Mr. Scherzer expressed appreciation for the longstanding relationship between Grey Sauble CA and the County that has always been
based on collaboration and cooperation.

3

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7.

Presentations from Volunteer Committee
•

Grey Sauble Conservation Foundation (GSCF) – Don Sankey, Chair

Don Sankey, Chair of the Grey Sauble Conservation Foundation, thanked the GSCA staff and Board
for their support over the many years. Mr. Sankey expressed gratification at the support that GSCA
has received from member Municipalities.
•

Inglis Falls Arboretum Alliance (IFAA) – Nancy Brown, Chair

Nancy Brown, Past-Committee Chair, spoke to the work that the IFAA and its volunteers do in the
Arboretum. Ms. Brown listed some of the incredible successes that the IFAA accomplished over the
past year.
•

Friends of Hibou (FoH) – Robert Knappe

Bob Knappe, Chair of the Friends of Hibou, brought greeting and some remarks on behalf of the
Friends of Hibou. Mr. Knappe spoke to some of the work and successes of the FoH over the last
year and thanked GSCA staff for all of their support.
8.

Presentation to Grey Sauble Conservation Foundation Members

CAO Tim Lanthier made a presentation to members of the Grey Sauble Conservation Foundation
who were in attendance. Mr. Lanthier recognized all of the work that the Foundation has done over
the many years. On behalf of the GSCA staff and Board, Mr. Lanthier presented each of the
Foundation members with a gift.
9.

GSCA Department Presentations

CAO Tim Lanthier provided a presentation and highlighted some of GSCA’s major successes from
2025.
10.

Board Appointments
i.

Election of Officers
a. Appointment of Chair Pro Tem

Chair Uhrig asked for Dick Hibma to be appointed as Chair Pro Tem and vacated the Chair’s position.
Motion No.:
FA-26-002

Scott Mackey
Jon Farmer

THAT Dick Hibma be appointed as Chair Pro Tem for the 2026 election of officers.
b. Review of Voting Procedures
Chair Pro Tem, Dick Hibma, acknowledged the privilege and thanked the Board for having him serve
as Chair Pro Tem. Mr. Hibma gave a brief review of the voting procedures for electing the Chair and
Vice Chair.
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CAO, Tim Lanthier clarified the recent changes in the CAA and their effect on eligibility of Chair and
Vice Chair positions.

c. Appointment of Scrutineers
Motion No.:
FA-26-003

Jennifer Shaw
Jon Farmer

THAT Don Sankey and Nancy Brown be appointed scrutineers.
Chair Pro Tem, Dick Hibma, called three (3) times for nominations from the floor for the position of
Chair for 2026.
1.
2.
3.

Member Robert Uhrig nominated Member Scott Greig for the position of Chair for 2026.
No nominations.
No nominations.
d. Election of 2026 Chair

Motion No.:
FA-26-004

Jon Farmer
Nadia Dubyk

THAT nominations for the election of Chair for 2026 close.
Member Scott Greig accepted his nomination of Chair for 2026.
Chair Pro Tem, Dick Hibma, declared Member Scott Greig as Chair for 2026 by acclamation.

e. Election of 2026 Vice Chair
Chair Pro Tem, Dick Hibma, called three (3) times for nominations from the floor for the position of
Vice Chair for 2026.
1.
2.
3.

Member Scott Mackey nominated Member Jennifer Shaw for the position of Vice Chair for
2026.
No nominations.
No nominations.

Motion No.:
FA-26-005

Jon Farmer
Tony Bell

THAT nominations for the election of Vice Chair for 2026 close.
5

Page 48 of 273

Member Jennifer Shaw accepted her nomination of Vice Chair for 2026
Chair Pro Tem, Dick Hibma, declared Member Jennifer Shaw as Vice Chair for 2026 by acclamation.

Motion No.:
FA-26-006

Tony Bell
Jon Farmer

THAT the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board of Directors has appointed for the year
2026 GSCA Officers as follows:
Chair: Scott Greig
Vice Chair: Jennifer Shaw
ii.

Remarks by 2026 Chair Elect and 2026 Vice Chair Elect

2026 Chair Elect Scott Greig thanked Member Robert Uhrig for his nomination and for the opportunity
to fill the position of Chair for 2026. Chair Greig provided some remarks of the importance of the
work the Conservation Authority does. Chair Greig thanked outgoing Chair Uhrig and Vice Chair
Dubyk on the work that they had done over the past two years.
2026 Vice Chair Elect, Jennifer Shaw thanked Member Mackey for his nomination and expressed that
she looks forward to serving as Vice Chair.
iii.

Appointments

a. Arboretum Alliance
i.

Scott Greig volunteered.

b. Building Ad Hoc Committee
i.

Scott Greig, Kathy Durst, Scott Mackey, and Rick Winters volunteered.

Motion No.:
FA-26-007

Scott Mackey
Nadia Dubyk

THAT the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board of Directors make the following
appointments to the Committees as listed:
Arboretum Alliance – Scott Greig
Conservation Ontario Council
Voting Rep – Scott Greig
1st Alternate – Jennifer Shaw
2nd Alternate – Tim Lanthier
Building Ad Hoc Committee – Scott Greig, Kathy Durst, Rick Winters, and Scott Mackey
6

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The Board recessed for 15 minutes at 2:23 pm.
The Board resumed session at 2:43 pm.
11.

Approval of Minutes

Motion No.:
FA-26-008

Robert Uhrig
Tony Bell

THAT the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board of Directors approve the Full Authority
minutes of December 17, 2025.

12.

Business Out of Minutes
Nothing at this time.

13.

Consent Agenda

Motion No.:
FA-26-009

Scott Mackey
Nadia Dubyk

THAT in consideration of the Consent Agenda Items listed on the January 28, 2026, agenda,
the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board of Directors receives the following items: (i)
Environmental Planning – Section 28 Permits – December 2025; (ii) Administration –
Receipts & Expenses – December 2025; (iii) Minutes – GSC Foundation September XX, 2025;
of North Perth – January 22, 2026, c. Letters/Resolutions from Municipalities (25),
Conservation Authorities (30) & Other Agencies (4) - Correspondence Link; (v) Recent Media
Articles.

14.

Business Items
i.

Administration
a. 2025 Workplan Completion Summary

CAO Tim Lanthier spoke in regard to the GSCA 2025 workplan, noting that many of the highlights
had been presented earlier. Mr. Lanthier thanked GSCA staff for their dedication and hard work and
expressed that he believed that GSCA did a phenomenal job in 2025. Mr. Lanthier thanked the
Board for their support.
Member Dubyk Mr. Lanthier and all GSCA staff for their excellent work over the past year and for
their ability to pivot and stay on track.
Motion No.:
FA-26-010

Rick Winters
Robert Uhrig

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Page 50 of 273

THAT the Board of Directors receive this report for information and acknowledge the
significant achievements of the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority (GSCA) in delivering its
2025 Workplan.

b. 2026 Budget
CAO, Tim Lanthier, gave a brief overview of the budget process to present. Mr. Lanthier reviewed
the budget motion and voting process. It was noted that Mr. Lanthier made presentations to three
member municipalities at their request.
Mr. Lanthier updated the Board on conversations with staff from the Town of the Blue Mountains
regarding the overall budget and the levy apportionment for the Town. The Town expressed concern
with the increase in apportionment to the Town and that their share of the total levy was significantly
larger than other member municipalities. Additionally, staff questioned what GSCA is doing to reduce
costs and for GSCA to make efforts to reduce the Town’s share further. Mr. Lanthier noted that the
assessment values are provided by the Province. The Town of Blue Mountains’ Council provided
some thoughts on reducing the budget. However, it was noted that the suggestions provided were not
fiscally responsible for the long-term financial health of the organization and would only defer and
increase costs down the line.
Mr. Lanthier will be preparing a response to the Town of Blue Mountains Council that speaks to their
concerns, including an explanation of how the levy apportionment is calculated, a list of the cost
saving measures GSCA staff have taken, and an overview of how and where GSCA reserve funds
are utilized. Mr. Lanthier noted that Conservation Authorities are not eligible to receive grants
through the Ontario Trillium Foundation and is not eligible to borrow from Infrastructure Ontario.
Member Mackey asked if the Town of the Blue Mountains expressed similar concerns with NVCA’s
budget. Mr. Lanthier deferred to the Member Maxwell from the Town of the Blue Mountains. Member
Maxwell stated that it was his understanding that as the area that falls within NVCA boundaries is
smaller than that area within GSCA, it seems like a smaller total amount, though it was noted that the
levy by assessed value in NVCA is greater. Mr. Lanthier added that 84% of the Town of the Blue
Mountains falls within GSCA’s boundaries and 16% falls within NVCA’s boundaries.
Chair Greig congratulated and thanked staff for bringing down the levy increase as low as they have.
Concern was expressed with the pressure that was put on staff with regard to how the levy
apportionment is calculated, as this is set by the Province.
Congratulations were extended to staff on the budget and the budget companion in particular.
Motion No.:
FA-26-011

Jon Farmer
Scott Mackey

That all participating municipalities be designated as benefiting for all projects included in
the 2025 Operating Budget and the 2026 Capital Budget unless otherwise specified in the
budget.
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Name

Yeah

Tony Bell

1

Tobin Day

1

Nadia Dubyk

1

Kathy Durst

1

Jon Farmer

1

Scott Greig

1

Scott Mackey

1

Alex Maxwell

1

Robert Uhrig

1

Jennifer Shaw

1

Rick Winters

1

Total

11

Motion No.:
FA-26-012

Nay

0

Nadia Dubyk
Jon Farmer

THAT the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority approve municipal apportionment for the
year 2026 for operating expenses and capital costs of $2,074,349 as required by Ontario
Regulation 402/22.
Name

Yeah

Tony Bell

1

Tobin Day

1

Nadia Dubyk

1

Kathy Durst

1

Jon Farmer

1

Scott Greig

1

Scott Mackey

1

Alex Maxwell

1

Robert Uhrig

1

Jennifer Shaw

1

Rick Winters

1

Total

11

Nay

0
9

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Motion No.:
FA-26-013

Robert Uhrig
Rick Winters

THAT the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority adopt the budget as presented for the year
2026 in the amount of $4,519,385.39.
Name

Yeah

Tony Bell

1

Tobin Day

1

Nadia Dubyk

1

Kathy Durst

1

Jon Farmer

1

Scott Greig

1

Scott Mackey

1

Alex Maxwell

1

Robert Uhrig

1

Jennifer Shaw

1

Rick Winters

1

Total

11

Nay

0

c. Personnel Policy Update
CAO Tim Lanthier spoke with regards to three personnel policy updates. The first was to update the
mission and vision statements as was approved in the strategic plan. The second update related to
the Earned Day Off pilot project and its ratification. The third update related to first aid training.
Member Dubyk asked what the uptake of the EDO option by staff. Mr. Lanthier responded that
between eight and ten staff.
Member Day asked with regard to first aid training and if Wilderness First Aid would be an appropriate
option. The Chair suggested to leave the consideration to staff to determine the best training for the
purposes of the staff.
Chair Greig asked if the flexible working arrangements impact the public’s access to the agency. Mr.
Lanthier responded that it is specified within the policy that operational needs can supersede any
flexible working arrangements. In addition, steps have been taken to ensure redundancy in front line
customer service positions to ensure public access.

10

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Motion No.:
FA-26-014

Scott Mackey
Nadia Dubyk

WHEREAS GSCA’s Earned Day Off pilot project was successful; and,
WHEREAS changes are required to better enforce health and safety standards,
THAT the Board of Directors adopt the revisions GSCA’s Personnel Policy as presented.

d. Full Authority Meeting Minutes
CAO Tim Lanthier spoke with respect to a question posed by a Council Member Greig from the
Township of Chatsworth regarding the inclusion of Member’s names with commenting, questioning,
or addressing the Board or staff within the body of the minutes.
Mr. Lanthier noted that this has been discussed at the Board level in the past and at the time it was
determined that the standard practice is to not include names within the body of the minutes. This
Vice Chair Shaw asked the Board secretory if it would be feasible or overly taxing to keep track of
Member names in the course of minute taking. Ms. Coleman responded that she was able to
accommodate if that was the will of the Board.
There was discussion between Members, with some Members providing support for the inclusion of
names in the body of the minutes. It was noted that in the past it was the expert opinion that minutes
are to be recorded with name or comment.
Motion No.:
FA-26-015

Robert Uhrig
Rick Winters

WHEREAS a request has been received from a councillor at a participating municipality to
include Board member names with their comments in the official minutes of meetings; and,
WHEREAS transparency and accountability are fundamental principles of governance, and
recording the names of Board members alongside their comments in meeting minutes will
provide clarity and context for decisions made;
THAT the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board of Directors directs staff to amend the
current practice for recording meeting minutes to include the name of the Board member
alongside any comments they make during meetings, effective immediately.

ii.

GIS
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a.

Regulation Mapping

Gloria Dangerfield provided a brief history of the inception and improvements of regulation mapping.
Ms. Dangerfield gave some examples of the changes that had been made this time around.
Vice Chair Shaw asked if the County updates are live updates. Ms. Dangerfield responded that the
goal is to make them live; however, the system is not yet able.
Member Farmer asked with regards to recent changes made by the province and if the GSCA
mapping takes into account the changes from the province. GSCA regulation mapping only takes
Member Mackey thanked staff’s work on the mapping and asked what classifies a water course.
Continuous and regular. Member Mackey asked with a municipal ditch would MacLean Plewes
noted that staff do not regulate roadside ditches unless they intersect with natural watercourses.
Member Day asked with regards to property values and insurance premiums being affected.
Mr. Lanthier noted that the regulations are based off the text of the regulation. This means that if a
hazard exists
Member Maxwell asked with regards to mapping in the Craigleith area. Mr. Lanthier responded that
GSCA is hoping to partner with multiple organizations to conduct mapping in the area in question.
MacLean Plewes noted that comprehensive studies have been conducted.

Motion No.:
FA-26-016

Jon Farmer
Tony Bell

THAT the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board of Directors receive Staff Report 0052026, Regulation 41/24 Regulatory Mapping, for information.

15.

New Business
Nothing at this time.

16.

CAO’s Report

The CAO, Tim Lanthier welcomed everyone back from the holiday season.
Following the December meeting of the Board, GSCA submitted their comments and the Board
Motion to the Province through the ERO posting. It was noted that the CAA changes were a topic of
discussion at the Rural Ontario Municipal Association conference and at present there have not been
any additional updates from the province. Conservation Ontario reported that more than 120
municipalities submitted resolutions objecting to the proposed amalgamation.
Mr. Lanthier noted that he does not expect any more information or updates until the provincial
legislature resumes session in March. In the meantime, Mr. Lanthier continues to communicate and
work with his counterparts throughout the province.
Member Mackey relayed that his impression at the ROMA conference was that there may be some
willingness to lessen the extent of the amalgamation and asked if Mr. Lanthier had heard anything.
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Mr. Lanthier responded that he has been in touch with the other impacted CAs in the proposed Huron
Superior RCA. The emphasis continues to be exploring other options for meeting the provinces
objectives without changing the structure of conservation authorities.
Member Uhrig noted that provincial representatives seemed to be receptive to feedback from
municipalities.
Mr. Lanthier reported back on the Saugeen Valley CA’s AGM. SVCA Chair is Tom Hutchinson, the
Deputy Mayor from West Grey. The Vice Chair is Greg McLean, Councillor from Brockton. The 2nd
Vice Chair is Sue Patterson, the Mayor from Hanover. The Member at Large is Barbara Dobreen,
Deputy Mayor from Southgate and Past-Chair.
Mr. Lanthier updated the Board on the Flood Watches in effect for the Beaver River at Clarksburg and
the Beaver River at the Lower Valley Road due to frazil ice conditions. GSCA staff have been
working with municipal staff in monitoring and communicating with public. Residents have been
notified but no houses have been impacted.
Member Mackey asked with regard to a preview/tour of the building prior to the move in. Mr. Lanthier
responded that a tour would be possible with proper safety gear. The revised timeline is end of May.
Mr. Lanthier gave a brief update on work that has been completed and items still to be completed.
17.

Chair’s Report
Chair Greig had nothing to report.

18.

Other Business
Nothing at this time.

19.

Motion No.:
FA-26-017

Nadia Dubyk
Rick Winters

THAT the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board of Directors proceed into closed
session at 4:08 pm to discuss matters related to the following:
i.

Minutes of the Closed Session of the Regular Board of Directors Meeting held on
December 17, 2025; and,

ii.

CAO Performance Review – closed as it relates to personal matters about an
identifiable individual including Authority directors or Authority employees (GSCA
Administrative By-Law, Section 4 (xvii)(b)).

AND FURTHER THAT CAO, Tim Lanthier and Administrative Assistant, Valerie Coleman, will
be present.

20.

Declaration that the Board of Directors Has Resumed Open Session

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21.

Motion No.:
FA-26-018

Jon Farmer
Tobin Day

THAT the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board of Directors approve
the December 17, 2025, Closed Session minutes as presented in the closed session agenda.

22.

Reporting out of Closed Session

Members approved the closed session minutes of December 17, 2025, and gave direction to staff on
items that were identified and nothing else.
23.

Next Full Authority Meeting
Wednesday February 25, 2026

24.

Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 4:26 p.m.

Scott Greig, Chair

Valerie Coleman
Administrative Assistant

14

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Protect.
Respect.
Connect.

GREY SAUBLE CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
MINUTES
Annual General Meeting & Full Authority Board of Directors
Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 1:15 p.m.
The Grey Sauble Conservation Authority (GSCA) Board of Directors’ meeting was held in a hybrid
format of in-person at the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Administrative Office and virtually via
the meeting application, WebEx.
1.

Call to Order

Chair Scott Greig called the meeting to order at 1:16 p.m., welcomed all those present in person and
virtually and provided a land acknowledgment.
Directors Present In-Person: Chair Scott Greig, Vice Chair Jennifer Shaw, Robert Uhrig, Nadia
Dubyk, Tony Bell, Tobin Day, Jon Farmer (joined at 1:27pm)
Directors Present Virtually:
Regrets: Kathy Durst, Scott Mackey, Rick Winters, Alex Maxwell
Staff Present: CAO, Tim Lanthier; Administrative Assistant, Valerie Coleman; Manager of Information
Services, Gloria Dangerfield; Manager of Financial and Human Resource Services, Alison Armstrong;
Manager of Environmental Planning, MacLean Plewes; Forestry Coordinator, Mike Fry
2.

Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest

The Directors were reminded to disclose any pecuniary interest that may arise during the course of
the meeting. No disclosures of pecuniary interest were expressed at the time.
Vice Chair Shaw declared an item of pecuniary interest in the receipts and expenses item under the
Consent Agenda.
3.

Call for Additional Agenda Items
Nothing at this time.

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4.

Adoption of Agenda

Motion No.:
FA-26-019

Robert Uhrig
Tobin Day

THAT the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board of Directors approve the agenda of
February 25, 2026.
5.

Approval of Minutes

Motion No.:
FA-26-020

Nadia Dubyk
Tony Bell

THAT the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board of Directors approve the Full Authority
minutes of January 28, 2026.

6.

Business Out of Minutes
i.
WSIB and First Aid and CPR Training
CAO Tim Lanthier reported back with respect to a question raised by Member Day regarding
workplace first aid training and if wilderness first aid would meet the criteria required by regulation
1101. Staff made inquiries with WSIB and were informed that wilderness first aid does not meet the
threshold for workplace first aid requirements.

7.

Consent Agenda

Motion No.:
FA-26-021

Tobin Day
Nadia Dubyk

THAT in consideration of the Consent Agenda Items listed on the February 25, 2026, agenda,
the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board of Directors receives the following items: (i)
Environmental Planning – Section 28 Permits – January 2026; (ii) Administration Q4
Portfolio Summary; (iii) Correspondence – a. South Nation Conservation – Letter &
Item (ii) Administration – Receipts & Expenses – January 2026 was pulled to be voted on separately,
as a conflict was declared by Vice Chair Shaw.
Motion No.:
FA-26-022

Robert Uhrig
Tobin Day

THAT in consideration of the Consent Agenda Items listed on the February 25, 2026, agenda,
the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board of Directors receives the following items: (i)
Administration – Receipts & Expenses – January 2026

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8.

Board Orientation – Frazil Ice

Manager of Engineering Services, Ian Eriksen provided an orientation to Board on Frazil ice
formation, its risks, GSCA monitoring, remediation, and communication channels with member
municipalities.
Member Jon Farmer arrived at 1:27 pm.
Member Bell asked with regard to the monitoring equipment and how the information is received by
GSCA staff. Mr. Eriksen explained the monitoring equipment and how the monitoring equipment
communicates with staff. The information is emailed to staff for
Member Uhrig asked how the communication works after normal working hours, is there an alert
system or is someone watching the alerts. Mr. Eriksen responded that staff are monitoring the
communications during periods of risk for flooding. It was noted that municipal staff are also
monitoring water levels in real time.
Member Dubyk asked if there are other problems areas in the watershed that are typically at risk for
Frazil ice. Mr. Eriksen responded that there are a couple of other areas that are monitored; however,
they are monitored for sheet ice rather than frazil ice.
Member Day asked what other best practice are being conducted by other municipalities that are not
being done in Clarksburg already. Mr. Eriksen responded that the situation in Clarksburg is fairly
common and reports have been conducted. It was noted that in Durham the municipality has created
an area that allows for multiple excavators to line up to remove the frazil ice.
Member Uhrig asked if there is liability on GSCA if (in the worst-case scenario) if GSCA’s sensors
went down and the flood event was missed. Mr. Eriksen responded that GSCA staff have established
strong lines of communication with member Municipalities to ensure the ability to respond and adapt
quickly.
Chair Greig asked with regard to impact of wind chill versus air temperature and what river levels
looked like going into January. Mr. Eriksen noted that wind chill is a warning sign for potential and a
marker that is monitored. Mr. Eriksen responded that river levels stayed consistent across the
episode.

9.

Business Items
i.

Administration
a. 2026 Workplan Draft

CAO Tim Lanthier spoke to the drafted 2026 workplan. Mr. Lanthier noted that all of the workplan
items have been linked to one or more strategic goals.
Additionally, Mr. Lanthier noted that there are a significantly larger number of items in the 2026
workplan than 2025 and noted that this is a better reflection of the volume of work that staff conduct
on a yearly basis.
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Member Farmer was pleased to see the West Rocks Management Area rock climbing management
plan work is expected to be conducted in 2026 and what, if any, information he can pass along if
asked. Mr. Lanthier responded that more information will be coming and can be accessed through
the website and if specifically interested individuals can reach out to GSCA staff.
Member Dubyk asked if the move back to the newly renovated center will impact the workplan. Mr.
Lanthier responded that he does not anticipate any significant disruption and steps have been put in
place to ensure a smooth transition back.
Motion No.:
FA-26-023

Jon Farmer
Tony Bell

WHEREAS the Board of Directors has approved the 2025-2035 Strategic Plan for the
operations of the Authority;
AND WHEREAS The Chief Administrative Officer of the Authority is responsible for
developing short and long-term goals of the Authority to support the Strategic Plan;
THAT the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board of Directors accept and approve the
2026 Strategic Workplan as presented.

b. 2025 Q4 Budget Update
Manager of Financial and Human Resource Services, Alison Armstrong reviewed the Q4 Budget
update and highlighted some specific items and changes.
It was noted that the Water Management department received WECI funding that had not been
previously budgeted for, bringing the department out of deficit. Additionally, GSCA received two
WSIB rebates.
Vice Chair Shaw asked with regard to salaries and wages and how they are allocated to various
departments. Ms. Armstrong responded that that some departments have staff that are 100%
dedicated to a single department and some positions are spread across one or more departments.
Motion No.:
FA-26-024

Tony Bell
Robert Uhrig

WHEREAS the Board of Directors approved the GSCA 2025 Operating and Capital Budget
on February 27, 2025, by motion FA-25-015,
THAT, the Board of Directors receive staff report 007-2026 – 2025 Q4 Budget Report Back as
information.

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c. Reserves Continuity Update
Manager of Financial and Human Resource Services, Alison Armstrong reviewed the reserve
continuity actual versus budget, and the recommended transfer allocations to reserve funds.
Member Dubyk asked with regard to parking revenue and what has driven the significant increase
Member Dubyk asked a follow up question with regard to the Education Program. Staff noted that the
department has had great success in grant applications and sponsorships resulting in funds not being
required to be withdrawn from reserves.
Motion No.:
FA-26-025

Jon Farmer
Nadia Dubyk

THAT the GSCA Board of Directors receive the 2026 Reserve Continuity status update and
approve the reserve transfers as presented.

d. Volunteer Policy
Forestry Coordinator, Mike Fry, spoke to the updated and expanded volunteer policy.
Member Farmer asked with regard to volunteer groups, such as Friends of Hibou, and if staff
anticipate any resistance. Mr. Fry noted that the document does not represent a huge change in how
these groups operate but rather formalizes their volunteer position and work.
Member Farmer asked with regard to the dress code and the use of the term “good”. Member
Farmer asked if this language is too subjective and open to interpretation. Mr. Fry responded that the
intent is a base level of expectation. Mr. Lanthier added that the language was left high level to allow
for flexibility and situational interpretation. Member Farmer accepted that explanation.
Member Uhrig asked with regard to staff volunteerism and who determines what is volunteer and
what is work time. Mr. Fry responded that the policy has been kept high level.
Member Dubyk asked if there is a process to gain volunteer feedback and measure volunteer
experience satisfaction. Mr. Fry noted that there was volunteer feedback sought by circulating the
policy to the group leads to generate comment from their members.
Motion No.:
FA-26-026

Nadia Dubyk
Jon Famer

WHEREAS, many individuals volunteer with GSCA completing various tasks;
AND WHEREAS, GSCA recognizes and appreciates the contributions of volunteers to
improving GSCA properties, its watersheds, and the visitor experience;
AND WHEREAS, GSCA recognizes the need to clearly define the various roles and
responsibilities of volunteers with GSCA;

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THAT, the GSCA Board of Directors approve the GSCA Volunteer Policy as presented.
THAT the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board of Directors directs staff to amend the
current practice for recording meeting minutes to include the name of the Board member
alongside any comments they make during meetings, effective immediately.

ii.

Education
a. Day Camp Fees

Manager of Information Services, Gloria Dangerfield spoke to the need to increase day camp fees for
2026. It was noted that costs to run the program have risen and the fee increase will help to offset
the shortfall. Ms. Dangerfield stressed that staff work very hard to control costs while still providing
quality programming. In addition, staff have decided to increase daily maximum participants to 22
from 20.
Member Bell asked if the proposed increase is enough or if it should be more. Additionally, how has
staff researched comparators. Ms. Dangerfield noted that some costs, such as bussing, have
remained relatively consistent this year compared to 2025, so the proposed increase seemed
appropriate. It was noted that staff are determined to keep the costs accessible to families.
Member Day asked how the increase in staffing has been balanced by the increased need to manage
those participants with specialized needs. Ms. Dangerfield noted that the addition of the full-time
education provider and LITs has relieved some of the pressures staff have experienced previously. It
was noted that those participants who require a one-on-one are required to provide their own.
Member Dubyk asked with regard to subsidized camper spots for families in need. Ms. Dangerfield
responded that this has been discussed previously, staff felt it would be difficult to appropriately
choose who would receive a subsidy and instead relied on the school boards and had reached out to
the United Way.
Member Uhrig noted a program through the Municipality of Meaford for staff to explore.
Member Farmer suggested having a place on GSCA’s website to include camper sponsorship,
though noted the extra responsibility on staff to decide who would be the recipients of any such
sponsorship. Ms. Dangerfield noted that GSCA staff relied on the school boards previously to
provide recommendations.

Motion No.:
FA-26-027

Jon Farmer
Tobin Day

Whereas the last change to summer day camp fees occurred 3 years ago and a modest
increase in fees will help offset operational costs, including wages and steadily increasing
bussing expenses.

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Further whereas, the proposed price of $300 per week is well within the range of fees for
similar, specialized camps in the region while remaining an affordable option for parents.
THAT the Board of Directors approve an increase to the weekly summer day camp fee from
$285 to $300 (equivalent to $60 per day, up from $57), effective for the upcoming 2026
summer camp season.

iii.

Environmental Planning
a. Permitting & Planning Fee Schedule
Manager of Environmental Planning, MacLean Plewes spoke with regard to an increase in the
permitting and planning fee schedule. It was noted that there had been a fee freeze imposed by the
province since January 2023, and this expired on December 31, 2025. It was stressed that the
proposed increase was limited to the cost-of-living increase for 2025 and 2026 only. Additionally,
staff have added fee categories for more routine, low staff time items.
Member Day passed along congratulations on moving quickly on this item.
Member Farmer asked if the increase was high enough considering the length of time without any
increases and what the approach was by staff to determine the increase. Mr. Plewes responded that
it was determined that expanding the increase further would not sit well with the public and this was
seen as a measured and acceptable response.

Motion No.:
FA-26-028

Tony Bell
Robert Uhrig

THAT the GSCA Board of Directors approve the proposed 3.7% adjustment for inflation and
administrative updates to the 2026 Planning and Permit fee schedules, beginning March 1 st,
2026;
THAT the Board of Directors approve an increase to the weekly summer day camp fee from
$285 to $300 (equivalent to $60 per day, up from $57), effective for the upcoming 2026
summer camp season.

10.

New Business
Nothing at this time.

11.

CAO’s Report

The CAO, Tim Lanthier reported on a couple of items.
Mr. Lanthier reported on one staffing change. The Manager of Conservation Lands has started
parental leave for the remainder of 2026. Staff are currently interviewing and will be onboarding a
Conservation Lands Technician to back fill.
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Mr. Lanthier reported that renovation work on the administrative centre is progressing well and that
the Board’s Ad Hoc Building Committee took a tour the week previous. Staff are planning a tour for
the Board in April. Staff are expected to move back at the end of May.
No new formal news on the changes to the CAA at this time. Expect to see more information when
legislature resumes session. It was noted that it has been reported that over 4000 comments were
submitted to the ERO posting, this is a substantial increase to the average.

12.

Chair’s Report

Chair Greig reported that the building is looking great and maintains the uniqueness of the original
design.
13.

Other Business
Nothing at this time.

14.

Motion No.:
FA-26-029

Jon Farmer
Robert Uhrig

THAT the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board of Directors proceed into closed
session at 2:57 pm to discuss matters related to the following:
i.

Minutes of the Closed Session of the Regular Board of Directors Meeting held on
January 28, 2026; and,

ii.

CAO Performance Plan – closed as it relates to personal matters about an
identifiable individual including Authority directors or Authority employees (GSCA
Administrative By-Law, Section 4 (xvii)(b)).

AND FURTHER THAT CAO, Tim Lanthier and Administrative Assistant, Valerie Coleman will
be present.

15.

Declaration that the Board of Directors Has Resumed Open Session

16.

Motion No.:
FA-26-030

Jon Farmer
Robert Uhrig

THAT the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board of Directors approve the January 28,
2026, Closed Session minutes as presented in the closed session agenda.

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17.

Reporting out of Closed Session

Members discussed the closed session minutes of January 28, 2026, and gave direction to staff on
items that were identified and nothing else.
18.

Next Full Authority Meeting
Wednesday March 25, 2026

19.

Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 3:37 p.m.

Scott Greig, Chair

Valerie Coleman
Administrative Assistant

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Protect.
Respect.
Connect.

GREY SAUBLE CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
MINUTES
Annual General Meeting & Full Authority Board of Directors
Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at 1:45 p.m.
The Grey Sauble Conservation Authority (GSCA) Board of Directors’ meeting was held in a hybrid
format of in-person at the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Administrative Office and virtually via
the meeting application, WebEx.
1.

Call to Order

Chair Scott Greig called the meeting to order at 1:45 p.m., welcomed all those present in person and
virtually, welcomed Deputy Mayor Caleb Hull as the Board’s newest Member, and provided a land
acknowledgment.
Directors Present In-Person: Chair Scott Greig, Vice Chair Jennifer Shaw, Robert Uhrig, Nadia
Dubyk, Tony Bell, Tobin Day, Scott Mackey, Alex Maxwell, Rick Winters
Directors Present Virtually: Jon Farmer, Caleb Hull
Regrets: NA
Staff Present: CAO, Tim Lanthier; Administrative Assistant, Valerie Coleman; Manager of Information
Services, Gloria Dangerfield; Manager of Financial and Human Resource Services, Alison Armstrong;
Manager of Environmental Planning, MacLean Plewes
2.

Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest

The Directors were reminded to disclose any pecuniary interest that may arise during the course of
the meeting. No disclosures of pecuniary interest were expressed at the time.
Vice Chair Shaw declared an item of pecuniary interest in the January receipts and expenses item
under the Consent Agenda.
3.

Call for Additional Agenda Items
Nothing at this time.

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4.

Adoption of Agenda

Motion No.:
FA-26-031

Nadia Dubyk
Scott Mackey

THAT the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board of Directors approve the agenda of
March 25, 2026.
5.

Approval of Minutes

Member Farmer noted one wording error that was noted and corrected by the recording secretary.
Motion No.:
FA-26-032

Jon Farmer
Robert Uhrig

THAT the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board of Directors approve the Full Authority
minutes of February 25, 2026, as amended

6.

Business Out of Minutes
None at this time.

7.

Consent Agenda

Motion No.:
FA-26-033

Rick Winters
Tobin Day

THAT in consideration of the Consent Agenda Items listed on the March 25, 2026, agenda,
the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board of Directors receives the following items: (i)
Administration – a. Receipts & Expenses – January 2026.

Motion No.:
FA-26-034

Jennifer Shaw
Nadia Dubyk

THAT in consideration of the Consent Agenda Items listed on the March 25, 2026, agenda,
the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board of Directors receives the following items: (i)
Environmental Planning – Section 28 Permits – February 2026; (ii) Administration – Receipts
& Expenses – February 2026; (iii) Correspondence – a. Ministry of the Environment,
Conservation, and Park – March 10, 2026; b. MECP Letter to Chairs – March 10, 2026; (iv)
Recent Media Articles.

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8.

Presentation – Mike Knopka – TD

Chair Greig welcomed Mike Konopka from TD Wealth to present on the GSCA Annual Review. Mr.
Konopka gave a summary of GSCA investment portfolio and its performance over the past year and
historically.
Member Day asked regarding the global economy and how it is changing between renewable and
non-renewable resources. Mr. Konopka spoke to the responsible investing elements of the portfolio
makeup and noted that there is still strong investment in renewable energy in European markets.
Member Day asked with regard to the impact of AI on the investment industry. Mr. Konopka noted
that his industry will see a significant rise in AI usage as a tool, especially as a productivity tool. Mr.
Konopka offered to forward materials developed by TD around the use of AI.
Member Uhrig asked with regard to impacts of amalgamation and the various CA investments. CAO
Tim Lanthier replied that there is no information at this time.

9.

Business Items
i.

Administration
a. Administration Building

Manager of Engineering Services, Ian Eriksen provided the Board an update on the Administration
Building Renovation project.
Member Mackey thanked Mr. Eriksen for keeping the building ad-hoc committee up to date during the
course of the project and commended him for the work that he has done to keep the project on time
and within reasonable budget.
Vice Chair Shaw thanked and commended Mr. Eriksen and the committee for their efforts.
Member Maxwell asked with regard to the additional insulation and waterproofing. Mr. Eriksen
responded that once the exterior walls were exposed a small amount of leaking was found and
addressed. Once those walls were opened there was the opportunity to add insulation at a more
reasonable cost than had been originally estimated.
Member Uhrig asked with regard to the timing of the move and the May Board meeting. CAO
Lanthier responded that staff do not foresee any concerns with the timing of the move.
Member Dubyk asked with regard to the asbestos that was found and if the building is now asbestos
free. Mr. Eriksen responded that there was very little found in the building and was isolated to some
floor tiles and one sewage line and confirmed that the building is now asbestos free.
b. CAA Changes Update
CAO Tim Lanthier provided an update on the proposed changes to the Conservation Authorities Act
and Ontario’s 36 Conservation Authorities. Mr. Lanthier gave a brief overview of the timeline up to
present day and spoke to the impacts on GSCA’s local communities and municipalities.
Mr. Lanthier noted that there are no answers at present on how levies will be allocated between
upper and single tier municipalities and the respective lower tier municipalities.
It was noted that a transition committee will be established with the CAO and one board member from
each of the current 36 CAs.
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Mr. Lanthier noted that a coalition group organized a media event at Queen’s Park for March 25th to
oppose the consolidation.
Member Farmer expressed concern around funding with three levels of “Board” and asked how the
Ontario Provincial Conservation Agency (OPCA) is being funded at present. Mr. Lanthier responded
that funding from the province was provided to OPCA as “start up” funds. Adding that there is little
clarity on how the funds from the province will be allocated. Mr. Lanthier noted that the legislation
allows OPCA the ability to apportion its costs to the RCAs and from there the RCAs may apportion
costs to member municipalities.
Member Farmer asked if anyone is attempting to summarize and collate the ERO comments if
anyone is aware of comments from local MPPs. Mr. Lanthier responded that he is unaware of any
agency working to analyze the ERO comments and added that they would not easily be able to
access any comments that came in by email.
Member Uhrig requested that CAO Lanthier provide a presentation to the Meaford Council.
Member Day asked if there is any indication of what may happen to buildings and staff. Mr. Lanthier
Member Mackey asked with regard to the make-up of the future Regional Boards. Mr. Lanthier
responded that the presentation from the MECP stated that representation would be by population.
However, it is still unknown what calculation will look like.
Several Members expressed concern over the funding, budgeting, and lack of clarity and detail.
Member Maxwell asked if there has been any discussion around the Province folding CAs into the
Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry. Mr. Lanthier responded that CAs have never been part
of the MNRF and was always intended to be a relationship between CAs and their watershed
municipalities. Also, CAs are currently under the Ministry of the Environmental, Conservation and
Parks (MECP).
Chair Greig asked how GSCA’s fees compare to those in other CAs such as NVCA or Lake Simcoe.
Manager of Environmental Planning, MacLean Plewes responded that GSCA’s fees are comparable
to neighbouring CAs. However, there is a significant difference with Lake Simcoe in terms of
complexity and fee structures. Still unknown how fee structures will work in the future.
Member Uhrig asked how many municipalities will be included in the new Lake Huron RCA. Mr.
Lanthier responded that, after the removal of Lakehead CA, there was would approximately 75 lowertier municipalities.
Motion No.:
FA-26-035

Rick Winters
Scott Mackey

WHEREAS the Government of the Province of Ontario (the Province) has announced its
proposal to proceed with the consolidation of Ontario’s 36 conservation authorities into
nine regional conservation authorities,
AND WHEREAS the legislation to enable this is expected imminently,
THAT the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board of Directors receive this report as
information.
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c. Huron-Kinloss Communication
CAO Lanthier gave an overview of the proposal by The Township of Huron-Kinloss though noted that
the proposal is less relevant due to the province’s announcement. It was noted that there was not
any consultation with other CAs or member municipalities.
Mr. Lanthier outlined the shortcomings of the proposal and the negative effects on GSCA and its
member municipalities.
Motion No.:
FA-26-036

Rick Winters
Tobin Day

WHEREAS the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority (GSCA) has received a copy of The
Huron Region Conservation Authority,
AND WHEREAS GSCA has identified substantial concerns with this proposal,
THAT the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board of Directors objects to the Regional
Conservation Authority boundary proposed by the Township of Huron-Kinloss as it fails to
recognize watershed boundaries, existing organizational expertise, and existing
conservation authority jurisdiction,
AND FURTHER THAT the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board of Directors direct Staff
to send the attached letter of objection to this proposal to the Council of the Township of
Huron-Kinloss,
forwarded to all of those municipalities, conservation authorities, and MPPs included in the
notice from the Township of Huron-Kinloss.

The Board recessed for 10 mins at 3:20 p.m.
The resumed session at 3:32 p.m.
d. Foundation Programming
CAO Lanthier spoke to the GSC Foundation, its programs and services, and their status after the
GSCF dissolved. It was noted that both relevant GSCA staff and Foundation Executive Members
were consulted prior to the Board meeting.
Mr. Lanthier provided an analysis and a review of staff input on each of the programs as detailed in
the Staff Report.
The Foundation’s funds are still being finalized, there is approximately $110,000 to be transferred to
GSCA. Mr. Lanthier outlined how the funds are recommended to be allocated within the Staff Report.
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Member Day advocated for the continuation of the student conservation awards program stressing
that it is a valuable resource to those students who have received it. Additionally, noted that
maintaining the award would help keep Malcolm Kirk’s name alive in the region.
Member Farmer asked with regard to how many years of planting space is available. Mr. Lanthier
responded that this year’s planting will take it to capacity. Member Farmer noted the benefits of the
program while recognizing the impact on staff.
Member Farmer asked if the proposed $25,000 could be used toward the education award instead of
one large legacy donation. Mr. Lanthier responded that the $25,000 would be drawn from the
Foundation’s Project Fund, the intention of which is to provide funding for GSCA projects. It was
noted that there was no feedback from the foundation with regard to how to utilize the $25,000.
However, Foundation members could be consulted on this.
Member Uhrig asked with regard to the Earth Day Hike and how that worked. Member Uhrig added
that consolidation of the CAs could directly impact the future of the Memorial Forest making the
current decision difficult. Mr. Lanthier responded that there a decision on the Board in the present
provides a better opportunity for continuation of any programs than not having a decision from the
Board at all.
Member Hull spoke with regard to the Environmental Awards and their reflection of the local region
and advocated for its continuation. Member Hull added that Town of South Bruce Peninsula is
working on creating its own memorial forest program and would be interested in working with GSCA.
In reference to the Earth Day Hikes, Member Hull would like to see GSCA provide resources that
would allow schools to continue running their own hikes.
Member Mackey noted that the Foundation’s members only request was for the continuation of the
Memorial Forest, adding that there was interest from members of the Foundation to volunteer.
Member Mackey advocated for the Board to honour the Foundation’s request to continue the
Memorial Forest Program.
Member Maxwell supported creating partnerships between GSCA and member municipalities to
continue the Memorial Forest Program.
Vice Chair Shaw supported running the program for 2026 and then reassessing for the future. Vice
Chair Shaw supported a decentralized version of the Memorial Forest program. Vice Chair Shaw
added support for the environment award, and the festivals. However, if a choice is required then
would support the funds going to the festivals over the scholarship. Vice Chair Shaw asked if there
was any agreement when the fund for the scholarship was created. Mr. Lanthier responded that the
endowment fund was not created to fund the awards, but rather projects of the Authority. This fund
has not funded the awards previously.
Member Dubyk supports continuing the memorial forest in a decentralized format, given that it is a
self-funding program. Member Dubyk supported utilizing the endowment funds to support the two
festivals and Member Farmer’s suggestion of reaching out to the Foundation Board with regard to
redirecting the $25,000 project funds to the scholarship instead.
Chair Greig noted that the Memorial Forest ceremony is held on a weekend and asked Board
Members to be cognizant of commitment of staff time and resources. Chair Greig supported looking
at alternative formats for the memorial forest program to continue in collaboration with member
municipalities. Chair Greig supported investing the $25,000 in a capital legacy project, though
suggested it utilized on a project outside of the administration building. Chair Greig supported
continuing to support the two festivals over the scholarship, though questioned if the amount of the
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Environmental Award could be reduced to be able to continue it without drawing funding away from
the festivals.
Member Day supported using the $25,000 for a project somewhere in the watershed that would
provide recognition for the Foundation, reaffirmed the impact of the Environmental Awards for
students and GSCA and would like to hear the Foundation’s thoughts on allocating the project funds
towards the Environmental Awards. Member Day supported continuing the Memorial Forest in a
decentralized format, recognizing the staff time involved.
Mr. Lanthier thanked the Members for their thoughtful discussion, adding that there may be a benefit
in rethinking how these programs fit together. Through the course of the discussion, Mr. Lanthier
suggested that there may be a way to have the Memorial Forest continue in an alternative format and
for the funding from the Memorial Forest program to provide the funding to support the Environmental
Awards.
Member Mackey supported deferring the motion to provide staff more time to rethink the Memorial
Forest program and the Environmental Awards program.
Motion No.:
FA-26-037

Scott Mackey
Nadia Dubyk

THAT THE GSCA Board of Directors defer the motion and directs staff to bring back a report
to the Board
Motion No.:
FA-26-038

WHEREAS the Grey Sauble Conservation Foundation has made the decision to dissolve,
AND WHEREAS GSCA must consider the future of the Foundation programming and
distribution of funds,
THAT the GSCA Board of Directors direct Staff to take the follow actions for the
Foundation’s existing programs:
a. Continue the Earth Film Festival as a part of GSCA’s Environmental Education
Programming.
b. MEMORIAL FOREST OPTION AS SELECTED BY BOARD
c. To cease the Earth Day Hike program in its current format.
d. ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION AWARDS OPTION AS SELECTED BY BOARD.
AND FURTHER THAT the GSCA Board of Directors direct Staff to:
a. Create a Memorial Forest Reserve to hold the existing Memorial Forest Fund, and to
use this money for the ongoing maintenance of the Memorial Forest sites.
b. To transfer $50,000 from the GSC Foundation to GSCA’s Youth Reserve to help fund
GSCA’s Environmental Education programming.
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c. To utilize $25,000 of the money from the GSC Foundation to offset the costs of the
Administration Building renovation or other large project.
d. To utilize the earnings from the Endowment Fund to help fund the Bruce-Grey Forest
Festival and Grey-Bruce Children’s Water Festival at a 50/50 ratio OR AS
DETERMINED BY BOARD.
Deferred

ii.

Environmental Planning
a. Permit Exemption Update

Manager of Environmental Planning, MacLean Plewes presented a proposed administrative update to
the 2026 permit fee schedule in which Staff recommend adding shore wells to the list of exceptions
on the fee schedule.
Member Dubyk commended staff on their quick update to the fee schedule prior to the fee freeze.
Motion No.:
FA-26-039

Nadia Dubyk
Robert Uhrig

THAT THE GSCA Board of Directs receive for information the Minister’s Direction to freeze
conservation authority planning and permitting fees;
AND THAT THE GSCA Board of Directors approve an administrative update to the 2026
Permit fee schedule;

10.

New Business
Nothing at this time.

11.

CAO’s Report

Spring freshet within GSCA’s watersheds was higher this year than in several recent years.
Significant snowpack combined with warm heavy rain and high temperatures resulted in a quick rise
to water levels. Most watercourses peaked in the 10- to 25-year event range. Some roadway flooded
was noted, as well as ice jamming in Meaford harbour resulting in flooding over the banks. Great
communication was noted with municipal partners.
GSCA’s Environmental Planning Department met with and presented to the Grey Bruce Home
Builders Association on March 24, 2026. It was noted that the meeting went well and provides a
good opportunity for future collaboration.
Member Uhrig thanked GSCA staff for their communication and diligence during the flooding episode.
12.

Chair’s Report

Chair Greig reported that he and several other Board Members attended a session which had a
presentation by a member of the OFA adding support to improving the planning processes but
expressed concern around the large geographic regions
8

Page 74 of 273

13.

Other Business
Nothing at this time.

14.

Motion No.:
Jon Farmer
FA-26-039
Robert Uhrig
THAT the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board of Directors proceed into closed
session at 4:34 pm to discuss matters related to the following:
i.

Minutes of the Closed Session of the Regular Board of Directors Meeting held on
January 28, 2026; and,

ii.

A Legal item – closed as it relates to the receiving of advice that is subject to solicitorclient privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose. (GSCA
Administrative By-Law, Section 4 (xvii)(f)); and,

iii.

A Human Resource item – closed as it relates to personal matters about an identifiable
individual including Authority Directors or Authority employees. (GSCA Administrative
By-Law, Section 4 (xvii)(b)).

AND FURTHER THAT CAO, Tim Lanthier and Administrative Assistant, Valerie Coleman will
be present, and Manager of Environmental Planning, MacLean Plewes will be present for
items i and ii only.
Members Caleb Hull and Alex Maxwell left the meeting at 4:34 p.m.
15.

Declaration that the Board of Directors Has Resumed Open Session

Board resumed open session at 5:40 pm.
16.

Motion No.:
FA-26-040

Robert Uhrig
Rick Winters

THAT the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board of Directors approve the February 25,
2026, Closed Session minutes as presented in the closed session agenda.
17.

Reporting out of Closed Session

Members discussed the closed session minutes of February 25, 2026, and gave direction to staff on
items that were identified and nothing else.
9

Page 75 of 273

18.

Next Full Authority Meeting
Wednesday April 22, 2026

19.

Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 5:41 p.m.

Scott Greig, Chair

Valerie Coleman
Administrative Assistant

10

Page 76 of 273

Owen Sound Police Service Board
2nd Floor Board Room
Wednesday March 18, 2026
PUBLIC SESSION MINUTES
Members Present:

J. Thomson (Chair), B. O’Leary C. Merton, M. Koepke
(Vice Chair), M. Dickson

Management Present:

Chief C. Ambrose, Deputy Chief D. Bishop, Inspector C.
Matheson

Guests:

T. Simmonds- City Manager

Absent with Regrets:

Inspector T. Doherty

Minutes:

K. Wardell

1. Call to Order
Chair Thomson called the meeting to order at 9:02 a.m.
2. Land Acknowledgment
Chair Thomson gave the land acknowledgment.
3. Approval of the Agenda
4. Declaration of Conflict of Interest arising out of the Minutes and Matters Listed
on the Agenda. HEARING NONE
5. Presentations, Deputations, and Public question period.
There were no presentations or deputations or public questions

Owen Sound Police Service
Open Session Minutes, March 18, 2026

Page 1 of 7

12 VON Grey Bruce for VON Week Correspondence received which is presented for the information of Council COMMITTEE MINUTES WITH RECOMMENDATIONS FOR APPROVAL

VON Grey Bruce for VON Week
Correspondence received which is presented for the information of
Council
COMMITTEE MINUTES WITH RECOMMENDATIONS FOR APPROVAL
12.a

13 Minutes of the Community Services Committee meeting held on April 21,

Minutes of the Community Services Committee meeting held on April
21, 2026
MATTERS POSTPONED
There are no postponed matters.

14 MOTIONS FOR WHICH NOTICE WAS PREVIOUSLY GIVEN There are no motions for which notice was previously given.

MOTIONS FOR WHICH NOTICE WAS PREVIOUSLY GIVEN
There are no motions for which notice was previously given.

15 DISCUSSION OF ADDITIONAL BUSINESS

DISCUSSION OF ADDITIONAL BUSINESS

16 MOTION THAT COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE RISE AND REPORT FORMAL SESSION

MOTION THAT COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE RISE AND REPORT
FORMAL SESSION

17 MOTION TO ADOPT PROCEEDINGS IN COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE

MOTION TO ADOPT PROCEEDINGS IN COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE

18 NOTICES OF MOTION

NOTICES OF MOTION

19 MOTION TO MOVE INTO CLOSED SESSION There is no Closed Session.

MOTION TO MOVE INTO CLOSED SESSION
There is no Closed Session.

20 REPORTING OUT OF CLOSED SESSION There is no Closed Session.

REPORTING OUT OF CLOSED SESSION
There is no Closed Session.

21 BY-LAWS

BY-LAWS
21.a
By-law No. 2026-049
"A By-law to confirm the proceedings of the Regular Meeting of the
Council of The Corporation of the City of Owen Sound held on the 11th
day of May, 2026"
21.b
By-law No. 2026-050
"A By-law to repeal various City policies"
21.c
By-law No. 2026-051
"A By-law to amend Election Sign By-law No. 2022-027 to adjust timing
for election campaign signs"
21.d
By-law No. 2026-052
"A By-law to govern the proceedings of Council and committees"
21.e
By-law No. 2026-053
"A By-law to establish Boards and Committees, appoint or amend the
terms of office for members, and repeal By-law No. 2026-008"
21.f
By-law No. 2026-054
"A By-law to establish a Compliance Audit Committee, adopt Terms of
Reference for the committee and delegate authority to appoint
members of the committee to the City Clerk"
21.g
By-law No. 2026-055
"A By-law to amend Appointed Officers By-law No. 2015-054 to
remove and appoint a By-law Enforcement Officer"
21.h
By-law No. 2026-056
"A By-law to amend By-law No. 2026-021 to remove The Corporation
of the County of Wellington as a funder of the Guelph Owen Sound
Transit (GOST)"
21.i
By-law No. 2026-057
"A By-law to authorize the Mayor and Clerk to execute an assignment
of lease"

22 ADJOURNMENT

ADJOURNMENT