Colin Howard

The council held a meeting where the primary focus was the presentation and celebration of the Outstanding Student Citizenship Awards. These awards recognize high school students for their academic performance, volunteering efforts, athletics, and community involvement. Multiple students from local high schools were recognized for their leadership, roles in school clubs, and future educational aspirations.

The council discussed and passed two bylaws: one establishing a municipal alcohol policy and another amending the appointment of municipal law enforcement officers. Additionally, the meeting included a review of correspondence regarding hydro power concerns and a proposal to amend the town's official plan. The council also received a letter of appreciation from the Pembroke and Area Airport Commission and accepted minutes from previous council, committee, and business advisory network meetings, with discussions held on upcoming community events and the business sponsorship program.

The council meeting featured a retirement presentation for the Executive Director of the Petawawa Centennial Family Health Centre, along with activity reports from the Petawawa OPP Detachment Board and the Upper Ottawa Valley OPP. The council passed by-laws regarding the regulation of off-road vehicles and governing proceedings for Council meetings. Reports from several advisory committees, including the Accessibility Advisory Committee, the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Committee, the Petawawa OPP Detachment Board, and the Public Library Board, were received. Additionally, council members provided individual updates on their community activities and engagements.

The Council-In-Committee meeting covered several key administrative and operational updates. The council discussed the Phase 1 Final Report of the Public Transportation Feasibility Study and authorized proceeding to Phase 2. Reports were received from various departments including Fire and Emergency Services, Planning and Development, Economic Development, Recreation, Culture and Tourism, Public Works, and Legislative Services. Notable actions included the approval of a funding agreement under the Community Improvement Plan, updates to the Municipal Alcohol Policy, and the award of a contract for the East Street Pumping Station generator replacement, while the tender for LED sport field lighting was tabled.

The council received a presentation regarding a public transportation feasibility study. The study proposed a hybrid transit model for the town, incorporating an on-demand local service for internal connectivity and a fixed-route regional service to connect with Pembroke. Key recommendations focused on advancing to a second phase of implementation, which involves investigating a formal partnership with the City of Pembroke to leverage existing infrastructure, technology, and funding opportunities for regional integration.