Smiths Falls

The committee meeting agenda includes discussions on lifting part lot control for Bellamy Farm Phase 2, authorization for three-year standing offer agreements for heritage advisory services, and a review of the 2025 Annual Report. Additionally, the committee will address correspondence regarding the Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund (OCIF) from the Municipality of Wawa and emergency management updates from the Ministry of Emergency Preparedness and Responses. An in-camera session to discuss a litigation matter is also scheduled.

The Committee discussed a sanitary sewer issue involving sewer backups, and held an in-camera session to address negotiations. Reports were provided regarding new Planning Act legislation and the Waterfront Trail Plan, with Council providing direction to extend the trail's shoulder season and consider hard surfacing for the future. Additionally, the Committee reviewed initiatives regarding community gardens and cupboards, approved a Computer Automated Dispatch upgrade, and received updates on County Council activities and the Integrity Commissioner's annual report.

This Community Improvement Plan aims to stimulate investment in the revitalization of Smiths Falls through financial incentives. Its primary goals are to improve accessibility, increase the supply and mix of affordable housing, stimulate the local economy by revitalizing existing building stock, preserving heritage features, and enhancing walkability and vibrancy, and promote brownfield redevelopment to create new public spaces and accommodate growth. The plan is structured around five key focus areas: universal accessibility, affordable market-based housing, brownfield development, downtown and waterfront area revitalization, and built heritage resources.

The agenda includes several items for council consideration, such as requesting a cost estimate for a structural integrity assessment of the old Water Tower, and discussions regarding potential updates to the Confederation Bridge project budget and regulations concerning backyard hens. The consent agenda covers the approval of various bylaws, including access for the Rideau Lakes All-Terrain Vehicle Club, a zoning amendment for 16 Jones Street, the appointment of a By-law Enforcement Officer, a resolution to extend the waiver of application fees for temporary outdoor patios and merchandise displays, and committee appointments for the Heritage House Museum Advisory Board and Smiths Falls Equity For All.

The committee discussed the designation of various properties of interest, including a stone arch bridge and a pedestrian bridge. An update was provided regarding an appeal affecting the Heritage Conservation District. The committee recommended that Council endorse a motion requesting an extension for the Properties of Interest List resolution. Project updates included reviewing a street naming by-law and an announcement regarding the upcoming Ontario Heritage Conference. Additionally, the committee addressed inquiries regarding the status of the Heritage Conservation District during an appeal, the ownership of a historic dam structure, historical local context regarding horse racing, and renovation details for the Heritage House Museum.