Marsha Hawthorne

This document serves as a preliminary report for the development of the City of Pembroke's new Official Plan. It highlights the necessity of updating the existing 2016 Official Plan due to significant changes in provincial policy and evolving local planning priorities. The report outlines key preliminary policy areas for the update, including Active Transportation, Affordable Housing, Servicing and Stormwater, Employment Areas, Natural Heritage, Implementation, Additional Residential Units, and Intensification and Growth. It also details the three-phase project schedule for the plan's review: Initial Consultation, Background Review, and Public Engagement and Draft Official Plan.

The committee meeting addressed several operational and financial matters, including an update on Festival Hall operations and the endorsement of an additional expenditure for the new Official Plan pilot project. Key agreements discussed included a collaborative partnership with the Silver Stick Committee regarding funding for a new ice resurfacer, and an advertising agreement with the Upper Ottawa Valley Little League for the Riverside Park ball diamonds. Additionally, the committee reviewed a request to transfer funds to cover a shortfall for the Enhancing Access to Spaces for Everyone (EASE) grant pathway project and recommended the approval of a memorandum of understanding with the Friends of the Regional Pool Committee to support ongoing pool infrastructure and fundraising efforts.

The council and committee meetings covered various municipal business matters including the approval of the asphalt road resurfacing tender award, the acceptance of the 2025 Pollution Control Centre Annual Water Reports, and the proclamation of Earth Month. Discussions included the creation of a new PACC Reserve Fund, various by-law approvals related to municipal infrastructure and housing, appointment of members to the Transit Committee, and updates on community projects and local mural heritage initiatives. Additionally, committee reports addressed recreation grant updates, police statistics, and water repair updates.

The committee meeting covered multiple operational reports, including the 2025 Pollution Control Centre Annual Compliance Report, which detailed wastewater treatment performance and bypass events. The agenda also included the award of a tender for asphalt road resurfacing and a proposal to enter into a transfer payment agreement for a health and safety water system expansion project. Additionally, the committee reviewed reports on water system updates, engagement surveys, and road patroller duties.

The meeting addressed procedural matters, including the approval of the meeting agenda and the minutes from the September 16, 2025, meeting. Following a closed session, the committee discussed a member appointment for the Civic and Youth Awards Committee, ultimately resolving not to advertise to fill the vacancy.