One-Sentence Summary

Council heard the Managers of Corporate Services report on a structural assessment, reviewed the Manager of Corporate Services recommendation regarding Multi-Year capital budget adjustments, and addressed By-law No. 2025-067 to confirm the special meeting proceedings.

Whole Meeting Summary

A speaker Speaker 06 delay before introducing Report CR-25-083 from the Managers of Corporate Services and Parks and Open Space concerning the Centennial Tower structural assessment and capital needs update without any Council decision being reached. Staff recommended Council direct inclusion of the Centennial Tower rehabilitation project and associated path of travel upgrades as unfunded items pending program approval, but Council carried an amendment to limit resolution scope to tower rehabilitation only via voice vote while noting safety and funding concerns. The presentation updated Council regarding grants in the 2026-2030 multi-year capital plan, reporting that development projects remain unfunded until agreements exist, while motions directed staff to provide estimates for updating the fortress area, update tree removal and invasive species control by year-end 2025, and delay a $25,000 community engagement allocation from 2026 to 2027. Council discussed deferring a motion to include an additional one percent for capital in the staff prepared budget until the fall budget meeting due to strong mayor powers preventing operation budget deferral, while requesting future reports on Council involvement under the new initiative. Council received a technical report from MHBC Planning regarding a proposed zoning bylaw amendment for the Bruce Grey Catholic District School Board at 28th Avenue East to permit a secondary school, discussed servicing and transit impacts, and carried a unanimous motion directing staff to continue processing the application under the Planning Act. A council member moved that the committee of the whole rise and report, and the motion was carried during the meeting proceedings as recorded in the agenda item. Council passed By-law No. 2025-067 to confirm the proceedings of a special meeting regarding this agenda item.

Most Newsworthy Items

• Public Meeting Closed on Housing and School Concerns: A speaker noted that a location is not walkable and questioned if it is suitable for East Side children’s schools. The speaker commended St. Mary’s School for gaining provincial funds to build and requested thoughtful consideration regarding the speed of housing development in Phase One of the Sydenham Heights Planning Area if land rezoning occurs, specifically mentioning the Carmier property, lands south of it ready to go, and the Glassworks land. The chair closed the public meeting after noting no other speakers wished to address the item.
• Rice House Demolition Timeline and Housing Use Discussion: Staff explained that development-related projects are listed as unfunded until signed agreements exist, causing a significant change in the capital plan outlook compared to last year. The Tom Thomson Art Gallery expansion was removed from the five-year plan due to feasibility studies pushing construction beyond 2030. Councillor Merton questioned why the Rice House demolition is scheduled for 2026 given the housing crisis and potential for interim use by community groups or the County. Staff noted that the County previously declined using the facility, citing a lack of scale for proper ancillary supports. A motion was moved to direct staff to investigate interfacing with community groups regarding the Rice House’s future use before demolition. Councillor Merchant opposed the motion, arguing that the building size would not allow for necessary supports and stating they would not support it.
• Speaker Proposed Including a Service Review Project in a Revenue Maximization Initiative: A speaker proposed including a service review project in a revenue maximization initiative led by Michelle Palmer for the current term. Staff reported that phase two of downtown video surveillance installation, involving eight or nine additional cameras, is expected to be completed by the end of August following a purchase order cut this past week. Councillors questioned discrepancies between high-priority asset ratings and later implementation timelines in the capital plan; staff explained that resource allocation balances human and capital constraints, allowing flexibility to defer projects if inspections reveal critical failures. Regarding ice resurfacing grooves, staff noted that studded tires are necessary for safety despite wear costs, which cannot be eliminated. Finally, staff suggested pushing the citizen satisfaction survey from 2026 to 2027 to align with the new Vision 2050 strategic plan outcomes, pending council approval.
• Tower Repairs Cost Heritage Status and Safety Concerns: A speaker noted that improvements valued at $170,000 would be included in a future July 21st report if approved today, but would not be included in the current presentation. Council discussed the tower’s heritage value and lack of formal historical designation, noting that usage data is anecdotal rather than from trail counters. Concerns were raised regarding safety upon reopening and the absence of a specific capital data sheet or reserve funding for the structure. Staff clarified that while the Bruce Trail access remains open around the tower, the drawbridge area is closed to foot traffic, and security patrols are in place.

Meeting Recap

4.a Report CR-25-083 from the Manager of Corporate Services and the Manager

A speaker Speaker 06 delay before introducing a report from the Manager of Corporate Services and the Manager of Parks and Open Space regarding the Centennial Tower structural assessment.

4.b Report CR-25-084 from the Manager of Corporate Services Re Summary of

Staff recommended that Council direct staff to include the Centennial Tower rehabilitation project and associated path of travel upgrades in the 2026 to 2030 multi-year capital plan as unfunded projects pending approval of a comprehensive asset management program. A speaker Speaker 10 valued at $170,000 would be included in a future July 21st report if approved today but excluded from the current presentation. Council discussed the tower’s heritage value and lack of formal historical designation, noting usage data is anecdotal rather than from trail counters. Concerns were raised regarding safety upon reopening and the absence of a specific capital data sheet or reserve funding for the structure. Staff clarified that while the Bruce Trail access remains open around the tower, the drawbridge area is closed to foot traffic, and security patrols are in place. Council carried an amendment to remove associated path of travel upgrades from a resolution regarding Centennial Tower rehabilitation. A councillor moved this amendment to limit the scope to tower rehabilitation only, arguing against funding trail repairs at that location. The motion was seconded and carried by voice vote.

Request to Include Centennial Tower Repairs As Unfunded Projects

Staff are recommending that Council direct staff to include the Centennial Tower rehabilitation project and associated path of travel upgrades in the 2026 to 2030 multi-year capital plan as unfunded projects.

Tower Repairs Cost Heritage Status and Safety Concerns

A speaker Speaker 10 valued at $170,000 would be included in a future July 21st report if approved today, but would not be included in the current presentation. Council discussed the tower’s heritage value and lack of formal historical designation, noting that usage data is anecdotal rather than from trail counters. Concerns were raised regarding safety upon reopening and the absence of a specific capital data sheet or reserve funding for the structure. Staff clarified that while the Bruce Trail access remains open around the tower, the drawbridge area is closed to foot traffic, and security patrols are in place.

Amendment Removed Associated Path of Travel Upgrades from the Motion Leaving Only

Council carried an amendment to remove associated path of travel upgrades from a resolution regarding Centennial Tower rehabilitation.

Council Receives Multi-year Capital Plan Report

Council received a report on the multi-year capital plan process without approving the plan itself, as it is intended to be updated in July. The presentation outlined the five-year plan spanning 2026 to 2030, which includes $91 million in funded projects, of which $30 million comes from external third-party sources like the Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund gas tax grants. Approximately 1/3 of the capital program is funded by these external sources. The process allows for adjustments based on community feedback and new grant opportunities between meetings.

Staff Recommends Deferring Capital Levy Increase Motion

A speaker Speaker 11 200 capital projects are supported by staffing resources, with $33 million in unfunded projects including extreme upgrades like the recently discussed tower. The presentation noted a funding gap of $38 million across asset classes, with $11 million tax-supported and $27 million user-supported. Staff recommended deferring a motion to increase the dedicated annual levy increase from one to two percent until the 2025 asset management plan is finalized and reviewed by Council in the fall.

5.a Presentation from the Manager of Corporate Services Re Multi-Year Capital Plan

The presentation updated Council on grants included in the 2026 to 2030 multi-year capital plan, specifically the Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund and Canada Community Building Fund. Staff reported that development-related projects are listed as unfunded until signed agreements exist, causing a significant change in the capital plan outlook compared to last year. Council carried a motion directing staff to return with high-level estimates for updating the fortress area and another motion requesting an update on tree removal and invasive species control by the end of 2025. Council also carried a motion to push the $25,000 community engagement allocation from the 2026 budget to 2027 to align with new council priorities following the election. A councillor proposed adding specific roadways to the unfunded rehabilitation list, though no vote was recorded on this proposal. The meeting concluded without motions to accept items, as staff will update capital detail sheets and present a follow-up report at the July 21st Council meeting.

Council Reviews 2026-2030 Capital Grants and Asset Maintenance Funding

The presentation updated Council on grants included in the 2026 to 2030 multi-year capital plan, specifically the Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund and Canada Community Building Fund. A confirmed commitment for $16.6 million from the former fund exists until 2027, while future funding is anticipated but not guaranteed beyond that date. Staff time allocated to asset management teams will be offset by OSEF funding, with annual allocations of approximately $125,000 to $150,000 for condition assessments. A projected surplus of about $4 million exists at the end of five years, though allocation is paused pending receipt of the stormwater management master plan. Council expressed concern that current funding levels are insufficient to maintain existing facilities without additional tax increases or difficult decisions regarding asset prioritization.

Staff Reported Canada Community Building Fund Locked Until 2030

Staff reported that the Canada Community Building Fund is locked in until 2030, with annual allocations increasing to approximately $736,000 by 2027 based on census data rather than the city’s asset management plan. The presentation confirmed funding for the 9th Avenue reconstruction project using a mix of OSF funding, development charges, and reserves, while debentures were identified as a new source to fund the fire station renovation.

Staff Reported Church Drawings and Cathodic Protection Speaker 15 reported that drawings for a church project were received Friday afternoon, with hopes to issue a tender soon. A cathodic protection rehabilitation project on 16th Avenue was awarded to the Water Department and is in progress. Inner Harbor waste receptacle upgrades and septic upgrades are also in progress at $80,000 each. The capital detail sheet reflects a reduction of an item previously listed at $40,000. Staff outlined five top public-facing projects for 2026, including road rehabilitation, 9th Avenue East improvements, Kelsey Beach playground updates, 4th Avenue West repairs, and digital message signage replacements reliant on sponsorship.

Rice House Demolition Timeline and Housing Speaker 16 explained that development-related projects are listed as unfunded until signed agreements exist, causing a significant change in the capital plan outlook compared to last year. The Tom Thomson Art Gallery expansion was removed from the five-year plan due to feasibility studies pushing construction beyond 2030. Speaker 01 questioned why the Rice House demolition is scheduled for 2026 given the housing crisis and potential for interim use by community groups or the County. Staff noted that the County previously declined using the facility, citing a lack of scale for proper ancillary supports. A motion was moved to direct staff to investigate interfacing with community groups regarding the Rice House’s future use before demolition. Speaker 02 opposed the motion, arguing that the building size would not allow for necessary supports and stating they would not support it.

Council Defeated Motion on Unfunded Demolition Project

Council discussed an unfunded project regarding a building deemed fit for demolition, with staff noting it was not required for city use and had no operating departments. A motion to explore options for the site, including potential community group contributions or parking lot conversion, was defeated by a vote of five opposed to one. Council deferred discussion on other unfunded projects, including North Bayshore parking lot paving costs, to a later time for staff to gather information.

Council Reviews Unfunded Projects and Asset Management Plans

Speaker 03 presented a list of unfunded projects without going into detail on each item, noting that some are wish lists rather than needs. Staff explained that replacement of deteriorating assets like bleachers will be based on levels of service as asset management plans are finalized in July for the 2026 budget. A suggestion to reduce the scope of work for the Downtown River Precinct by replacing a stone structure with a railing was raised for future consideration.

Staff Explained That a New Software Implementation Led by Speaker 17 explained that a new software implementation led by Michelle Palmer will automate processes to improve efficiency rather than directly save staff levels, freeing time for capital projects. Council discussed incorporating heritage values into asset categories without altering existing scoring percentages, noting that consultants already apply premiums to repair costs for heritage buildings. The group addressed standardizing assessment metrics across departments and training staff on evaluating socioeconomic and environmental values.

Speaker 04 Such High-cost Items Are Retained in the Speaker 18 explained that a North Bayshore paving project remains on the unfunded list due to budget constraints. Speaker 05 questioned why such high-cost items are retained in the plan without third-party funding.

Unfunded Projects Including Repaving Costs Cemetery Spoils Area Management

Council discussed unfunded projects including repaving costs, cemetery spoils area management, and bleacher replacements at St. Julian’s Park. Staff noted that some assets were removed from the unfunded list through operational budgets rather than capital funding. A speaker Speaker 12 potential partners on shared portable seating as an alternative to new bleachers.

Harrison Park Road Rehabilitation Was Kept on the Unfunded List While Staff

Council discussed unfunded projects including a scoreboard at Tom Williams Park and design work for Duncan McClellan, noting that while some projects may never occur, community interest could lead to future funding or sponsorship opportunities. Staff explained that a $150,000 allocation is intended for topographical surveys required before fixing the outfield at a baseball diamond, as the scope of work must be defined before any project is tendered. The Harrison Park Road Rehabilitation was kept on the unfunded list while staff complete traffic studies to determine if roads should be converted to pedestrian trails or resurfaced, with a $2 million estimate questioned for its affordability without significant population growth. Speaker 05 requested further information regarding the River Precinct renovation, specifically questioning the cost of removing masonry walls known as the fortress and seeking insight into options to improve visibility and reduce opportunities for seclusion.

Council Carried Motions for Fortress Estimates and Tree Removal Updates

Council carried a motion directing staff to return to the December meeting with high-level estimates for updating the fortress area in that block. Council also carried a motion requesting an update on the status of tree removal and invasive species control through the Community Services Committee by the end of 2025. Staff noted they are currently working on a donations policy to address concerns about soliciting grants for capital projects and operating programs.

speaker Speaker 09 Service Review Project in a Revenue Maximization Initiative

A speaker Speaker 09 service review project in a revenue maximization initiative led by Michelle Palmer for the current term. Staff reported that phase two of downtown video surveillance installation, involving eight or nine additional cameras, is expected to be completed by the end of August following a purchase order cut this past week. Councillors questioned discrepancies between high-priority asset ratings and later implementation timelines in the capital plan; staff explained that resource allocation balances human and capital constraints, allowing flexibility to defer projects if inspections reveal critical failures. Regarding ice resurfacing grooves, staff noted that studded tires are necessary for safety despite wear costs, which cannot be eliminated. Finally, staff suggested pushing the citizen satisfaction survey from 2026 to 2027 to align with the new Vision 2050 strategic plan outcomes, pending council approval.

Council Carried Motion to Push Community Engagement Funding

Council carried a motion to push the $25,000 community engagement allocation from the 2026 budget to 2027 to align with the new term of council priorities following the election. Council also carried a motion to leave on the floor a request for a staff report on establishing a cricket pitch at Harrison Field or an unused soccer field, noting an upcoming deputation. A councillor proposed adding the northern part of Eddie Sargent Parkway and Grey Road One to the unfunded rehabilitation list due to its poor condition and lack of AODA-compliant sidewalks, though no vote was recorded on this proposal.

Council Discusses Unfunded Projects and Employee Survey Costs

A councillor expressed concern that the county transferred a roadway in poor condition to the city without proper planning, leaving it to be funded with limited resources. Council discussed an employee engagement survey costing approximately $25,000 every three years and requested statistical analysis on turnover ratios to justify the expenditure. Staff indicated they do not currently provide specific reports on exit reasons or retention ratios to Council but receive such data internally. The meeting concluded without motions to accept items, as staff will update capital detail sheets and present a follow-up report at the July 21st Council meeting.

6.a Report CR-24-143 from the Manager of Corporate Services Re Multi-Year Capital

Council discussed deferring a motion to include an additional one percent for capital in the staff prepared budget until the fall budget meeting. This decision was made because strong mayor powers prevent Council from deferring the operating budget. Staff reported that this additional one percent is dedicated to capital and allocated through the capital plan rather than solely for specific asset classes like resurfacing. Council also requested a future report explaining how Council involvement will work under the new strong mayor initiative.

Council Directs Staff to Include Additional One Percent

A speaker Speaker 13 had been held with an intention to put them toward capital needs. The Mayor directed staff to include an additional one percent dedicated to capital in the staff prepared budget.

Council Concludes Capital Budget and Begins Public Meeting

A speaker Speaker 14 lump sum grows annually by one percent and is allocated through the capital plan without targeting specific asset classes. Council members requested clarification on how council involvement will function under the new strong mayor initiative for future budgets. Staff confirmed they are working on a report to explain this process. The capital budget portion concluded, and the meeting recessed before returning at 5:30 PM to begin the public meeting regarding zoning bylaw amendment number 56.

9.a Report CS-25-059 from Dave Aston and Aleah Clarke MHBC Planning Re

Council received a technical report regarding a proposed zoning bylaw amendment for the Bruce Grey Catholic District School Board to permit a secondary school on 28th Avenue East. Discussion addressed road servicing costs, maintenance responsibilities, and transit impacts before Council unanimously carried a motion directing staff to continue processing the application in accordance with the Planning Act.

10 MOTION THAT COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE RISE AND REPORT

A council member moved that the committee of the whole rise and report, and the motion was carried.

12.a By-law No. 2025-067

Council passed By-law No. 2025-067 to confirm the proceedings of a special meeting held on June 23, 2025.

Links

Read full transcript: https://helpos.ca/transcripts/owen-sound/council-meeting-special/2025-06-23

Agenda page: https://helpos.ca/agendas/owen-sound/council-meeting-special/2025-06-23

Official meeting page: https://pub-owensound.escribemeetings.com/MeetingsCalendarView.aspx/Meeting?Id=7ecd9ce5-abd1-43d0-9cdc-e7f750982af6

Original video: https://video.isilive.ca/owensound/New Encoder_Council Meeting - Special_2025-06-23-12-28.mp4