Mike Botelho

The council meeting addressed several agenda items, including a public meeting regarding a zoning amendment for a property on Country Meadows Drive and a request for a community history video partnership. The council approved the connection of tile drainage to the No. 3 Drainage Works and deliberated on the 2026 operating, water, and building department budgets, ultimately passing a resolution regarding reserve allocations. Additionally, the council supported the West Nile virus larvicide program, approved a sponsorship for the Orangeville Optimist Club, and proclaimed April 2026 as Sikh Heritage Month.

This Water Financial Plan for the Township of Amaranth serves as a roadmap for the municipality's water system. It details the financial position, operations, and cash flow over a ten-year forecast period from 2025 to 2035. The plan is designed to meet the requirements for obtaining a municipal drinking water licence under the Safe Drinking Water Act, 2002, and adheres to Ontario Regulation 453/07 and Public Sector Accounting Board (P.S.A.B.) standards. It incorporates findings from a prior Rate Study and focuses on sustainable financial planning principles to ensure the long-term viability of water services.

The council meeting addressed several planning and operational matters, including public hearings for official plan and zoning by-law amendments for local properties. Discussions covered the building department's 2025 review, updates on road maintenance and snow fencing, and the review of the 2026 draft budget, including decisions on equipment financing. The council approved the 2026-2030 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan, proclaimed Human Trafficking Awareness Day, and passed various by-laws regarding interim tax levies, municipal service fees, and the appointment of enforcement officers. Additionally, the council discussed staffing matters in a closed session and reviewed correspondence from various municipal organizations.

The council meeting included presentations regarding hospital updates and a proposed senior living campus. Planning and development items were discussed, including consent applications and zoning by-law amendments. The council reviewed road maintenance procedures, received an overview of the draft 2026 budget, and discussed committee reports from various community boards. Proclamations were approved for Giving Tuesday and Christian Heritage Month. Additionally, council addressed items in a closed session regarding fire board agreements, authorized the appointment of building officials, and approved the 2026 council meeting schedule.

The council discussed the proposed amalgamation of Conservation Authorities as outlined in Bill 68, formally expressing opposition and requesting a three-year hiatus for proper consultation. Additionally, council authorized immediate security system upgrades for the Township Office and Public Works Yard to be included in the upcoming capital budget. The meeting also included a closed session regarding staffing concerns, the introduction of a zoning by-law amendment, and the passage of a confirming by-law.