Whitestone

The council meeting included a land acknowledgement and introductions. Key presentations were delivered regarding the activities and upcoming events of the West Parry Sound Health Center Foundation, including the Walk Run event, radiothon, and fundraising efforts to replace hospital equipment. The council discussed the process for donors to restrict contributions for specific nursing practitioner clinics. Additionally, a deputation was presented regarding historic and abnormal flooding levels on Lake Washesh, noting the challenges posed by spring freshets and the dam.

The Council meeting featured presentations regarding the West Parry Sound Health Centre Foundation's strategic plans and a request for a working group to address lake flooding. A public meeting was held to discuss a proposed Zoning By-law amendment for short-term rentals. Council awarded tenders for road maintenance supplies, reviewed first-quarter statistics from the Fire, Rescue, Planning, and Building Departments, and approved 2026 green initiative projects. Notable business included proclamations for Seniors' Month and pollinator stewardship, a resolution regarding the state of Highway 520, and a donation to the WahWashKesh Conservation Association. Additionally, the selection of the Senior of the Year took place during a closed session.

The council meeting addressed a variety of municipal matters, including the receipt of presentations from the West Parry Sound Health Centre and local residents. Committee of the Whole discussions led to the recommendation for approval of a consent application and the authorization to proceed with a by-law enforcement policy. A public meeting was held regarding a zoning by-law amendment for short-term rentals. Council also reviewed and approved contract awards for dust control and granular material supply, received quarterly reports for various municipal departments, and finalized a three-year insurance renewal agreement. Additionally, the council issued proclamations for Seniors' Month and the Mayors' Monarch Pledge, addressed concerns regarding the condition of Highway 520, authorized a donation for the maintenance of HoboLink, and discussed land acquisition matters in a closed session.

The Asset Management Plan for the Municipality of Whitestone aims to ensure the sustainable delivery of municipal services by managing public infrastructure cost-effectively. It addresses the current portfolio of $73.3 million in assets, noting that 71% are in fair or better condition, but highlights an annual funding gap of approximately $480,000. The plan recommends increasing taxes by 1.4% annually for six years to reach recommended funding levels and proposes strategies for asset data management, condition assessment, lifecycle management, and service level measurement to support continuous refinement of the asset management program.

The council meeting addressed several key agenda items, including the presentation and approval of the final 2025 Asset Management Plan and a milestone report for the ICECAP project. A public meeting was conducted concerning a proposed zoning by-law amendment, the adoption of the 2026 operating and capital budget, and the adoption of the fees and charges by-law. The council also held committee of the whole discussions regarding the draft official plan review and entered a closed session to discuss personal matters, an Ontario Land Tribunal appeal, and building permit inactive fees. Additional business included staff reports on remuneration, building reports, and various by-laws, along with resolutions of support for local and provincial initiatives.