This is the accessible web version of the agenda package. Pages that are scanned images are listed with a link to that page of the PDF. To get any part of this package in another format, contact the Township office at 705-248-2395 or info@lairdtownship.ca.
Agenda
REGULAR AGENDA – AGENDA 57
CORPORATION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF LAIRD
May 21, 2026, at 6:00 pm
Laird Township Council Chambers
1. Call to Order
2. Declaration of Pecuniary Interest
3. Agenda Approval
Recommendation: BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council hereby approves the May 21, 2026, agenda as presented.
4. Delegations and Presentations
5. Adoption of Minutes of Previous Meeting
a. Council Regular Meeting – April 16, 2026 (PDF pages 5 to 10)
b. Council Special Meeting – April 21, 2026 (PDF pages 11 to 13)
c. Recreation Committee Meeting – April 28, 2026 (PDF pages 14 to 16)
Recommendation: BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council approves minutes of the Regular Council meeting of April 16, 2026, Special Council meeting of April 21, 2026 and the Recreation Minutes of April 28, 2026.
6. Adoption of Accounts
a. General accounts to April 30, 2026 (PDF page 17)
Recommendation: BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council approves the general accounts to April 30, 2026, in the amount of $4,030.10.
b. Roads accounts to April 30, 2026 (PDF page 18)
Recommendation: BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council approves the roads account to April 30, 2026, in the amount of $28,607.44.
7. Staff and Committee Reports
a. Road Superintendent (Roads, Waste Disposal & Recycling, and Maintenance)
i. Road Superintendent Report – Verbal Report
Recommendation: BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council receives the Road Superintendent Report dated May 21, 2026, as presented.
ii. Council Q&A
b. Clerk Administrator, Deputy Treasurer
i. Clerk’s Report – Verbal Report
Recommendation: BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council receives the Clerk’s Report dated May 21, 2026, as presented.
ii. Task Summary Sheet & Recent Activity Log (PDF pages 19 to 21)
iii. Concern/Information Log – Updates (PDF page 22)
Recommendation: BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council receives the May 21, 2026, Task Summary Sheet & Recent Activity Log and the Concern/Information Log as presented.
iv. Council Q&A
c. Treasurer’s Report
d. Recreation Committee & Recreation Sub-Committees
i. Laird Fairgrounds Sub-committee Minutes – April 14, 2026 (PDF pages 23 to 26)
ii. Wharf Sub-committee Minutes – May 6, 2026 (PDF pages 27 to 28)
iii. Laird Hall Sub-committee Minutes – May 12, 2026 (PDF pages 29 to 31)
Recommendation: BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council receives the Laird Fairgrounds Sub-committee minutes of April 14, 2026, the Wharf Sub-committee minutes of May 6, 2026, and the Laird Hall Sub-committee minutes of May 12, 2026.
e. Cemetery Board
i. Cemetery Board Minutes – April 29, 2026 (PDF pages 32 to 34)
Recommendation: BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council receives the Cemetery Board minutes of April 29, 2026.
f. Planning Board
g. Police Detachment Board
h. Algoma District Services Administrative Board (ADSAB)
i. Algoma District Municipal Association (ADMA)
8. Unfinished Business
a. Memo: Government Road Bridge – Expansion Joint Movement & (PDF pages 35 to 38) Recommended Next Steps
Recommendation: BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council receive the report of the Clerk regarding the Government Road Bridge – Expansion Joint Movement;
AND THAT Council direct Tulloch Engineering to prepare a formal proposal for soil sampling and consolidation testing at the north abutment of the Government Road Bridge, at an estimated cost of approximately $20,000, in order to determine long term repair options for the structure.
b. Memo: Fuel Service Agreement (PDF pages 39 to 48)
Recommendation: BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council receive the report titled Fuel Services Agreement dated May 21, 2026;
AND THAT Council endorse, in principle, the draft Fuel Services Agreement as presented;
AND THAT staff be directed to forward the draft Fuel Services Agreement to the Township of Tarbutt for their review and comment;
AND FURTHER THAT, upon confirmation that both municipalities are satisfied with the final terms of the Fuel Services Agreement, a by-law be brought forward for Council’s consideration to approve the agreement and to authorize the Mayor and Clerk to execute it on behalf of the Township of Laird.
c. Road Grant Policy (PDF pages 49 to 64)
Recommendation: BE IT RESOLVED THAT By law 2084 26, being a by law to adopt the Road Association Grant Program Policy attached as Schedule A, be passed in open Council this 21st day of May, 2026; ‑ ‑ ‑
AND THAT the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to sign and seal the by law on behalf of the Corporation of the Township of Laird.
‑
9. New Business
10. Notices of Motion
11. Closed Session
Recommendation: BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council proceed into closed session at (blank) p.m. in accordance with Section 239(2) of the Municipal Act, 2001, for the following reasons:
- Personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal employees – s.239(2)(b);
- Proposed acquisition of land – s.239(2)(c);
- Advice subject to solicitor client privilege – s.239(2)(f).
Closed Session Items
a. Approval of closed meeting minutes – April 16, 2026.
b. Employee medical update – s.239(2)(b).
c. Fire Services Agreement – solicitor comments and legal advice – s.239(2)(f).
d. Potential land acquisition for municipal purposes – s.239(2)(c).
e. Seasonal student hiring recommendations – s.239(2)(b).
f. Staffing update – succession planning for Seasonal Grounds Manager –
s.239(2)(b).
Recommendation: BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council come out of closed meeting session at (blank) p.m. and continue with the Regular Council Meeting.
Consideration of and action on matters arising out of the closed meeting.
12. Communications and Correspondence
a. Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, RE: Ontario Regulation 584/06 and (PDF page 65)
O. Reg 595/06, April 22, 2026
b. Trefry Centre, RE: Funding Request, April 17, 2026 (PDF pages 66 to 67)
Recommendation: BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council increase the 2026 budgeted amount of $3,000 to $3,040 as per the Dr. H.S. Trefry Memorial Centres request.
c. Ministry of Northern Economic Development and Growth, RE: Tourism (PDF page 68) Campaign – Northern Ontario, April 9, 2026
d. Plummer Additional, RE: Request for Support for Meeting with MP Bill (PDF page 69) Rosenberg Regarding Highway 17 Closure and Municipal Road Impacts.
e. Central Algoma Land Trust, RE: Sponsorship for the Central Algoma Land Trust (PDF pages 70 to 71) 2026, April 13, 2026
13. Mayor and Council Comments
a. FONOM Conference May 11 to 13, 2026 – Verbal Report from Councillor Shewfelt and Councillor Rydall
14. By-laws
a. 2085-26 Final Tax Rates By-law (PDF pages 72 to 73)
Recommendation: BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council adopts By-law 2085-26 Final Tax Rates 2026, authorizing the tax bills be issued.
b. 2086-26 Conformity By-law (PDF page 74)
Recommendation: BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council adopts By-law 2086-26, being a by-law to confirm the proceedings of the meeting of Council held on May 21, 2026.
15. Adjournment
Recommendation: BE IT RESOLVED THAT this Council shall now adjourn to meet again on June 18, 2026 or until the call of the chair.
Supporting documents
Council Regular Meeting – April 16, 2026
PDF pages 5 to 10.
REGULAR AGENDA – AGENDA 55
CORPORATION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF LAIRD
April 16, 2026, at 6:00 pm
Laird Township Council Chambers
Present: Mayor: Shawn Evoy
Councillors: Todd Rydall, Brad Shewfelt, Wayne Junor
Regrets: Matt Frolick
Clerk: Jennifer Errington
Acting Road Supt.: Ed Lapish
Treasurer: Rhonda Crozier
Delegate: Mitch Marinovich
1. Call to Order
Mayor Evoy called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
2. Declaration of Pecuniary Interest
3. Agenda Approval
#88-26
Moved by: Todd Rydall
Seconded by: Wayne Junor
BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council hereby approves the April 16, 2026, agenda as presented with an amendment to include agenda item 14. a. 2080-26 Use of Corporate Resources for Election Purposes Policy By-law and 14. b. 2081-26 Regulate Election Signs By-law.
Carried.
4. Delegations and Presentations
a. Stefanizzi Professional Corporation Chartered Professional Accountant
i. Consolidated Financial Statements for year ended December 31, 2025 DRAFT
- Mitch Marinovich presented the Audit Findings and Financial Overview PowerPoint presentation.
- Opinion, clean audit.
#89-26
Moved by: Brad Shewfelt
Seconded by: Wayne Junor
BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council directs the Treasurer and the Clerk to sign the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2025.
Carried.
5. Adoption of Minutes of Previous Meeting
a. Council Regular Meeting – March 19, 2026
b. Council Special Meeting – April 2, 2026
c. Recreation Committee Meeting – March 31, 2026
#90-26
Moved by: Todd Rydall
Seconded by: Brad Shewfelt
BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council approves the minutes of the Regular Council Meeting held March 19, 2026, the Special Council Meeting held April 2, 2026, and the Recreation Committee Meeting held March 31, 2026;
AND FURTHER THAT Council endorses the Recreation Committee’s recommendation to apply for the 2026–27 Enhancing Access to Spaces for Everyone (EASE) Grant for the Bar River Hall accessible washroom project, and directs staff to work with the Bar River Hall sub-committee to submit the application prior to the May 7, 2026 deadline;
AND FURTHER THAT Council approves the Recreation Committee’s recommendation to select Jo Anne Entwistle as the 2026 Senior of the Year.
Carried.
‑
6. Adoption of Accounts
a. General accounts to March 31, 2026
#91-26
Moved by: Todd Rydall
Seconded by: Wayne Junor
BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council approves the general accounts to March 31, 2026, in the amount of $16,644.20.
Carried.
b. Roads accounts to March 31, 2026
#92-26
Moved by: Wayne Junor
Seconded by: Brad Shewfelt
BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council approves the roads account to March 31, 2026, in the amount of $40,992.37.
Carried.
7. Staff and Committee Reports
a. Road Superintendent (Roads, Waste Disposal & Recycling, and Maintenance)
i. Road Superintendent Report – Verbal Report
#93-26
Moved by: Todd Rydall
Seconded by: Brad Shewfelt
BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council receives the Road Superintendent Report dated April 16, 2026, as presented; and arising out of the report:
THAT Council approves the project of ditching on Government Road from Knox Church to the bridge and directs staff to notify property owners abutting the ditching project area;
AND THAT Council approves the purchase of an 18-foot landscaping trailer, and directs staff to inspect the trailer available at Martin’s; and if it meets operational needs, to proceed with the purchase, otherwise to purchase a suitable trailer from Action, including delivery costs;
AND THAT Council directs staff to arrange for the removal of the street light located at the intersection of Government Road and Lake George Road.
Carried.
b. Clerk Administrator, Deputy Treasurer
i. Clerk’s Report – Verbal Report
#94-26
Moved by: Wayne Junor
Seconded by: Brad Shewfelt
BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council receives the Clerk’s Report dated April 16, 2026, as presented.
Carried.
ii. Memo: Restricted Acts of Council (Lame Duck Periods)
#95-26
Moved by: Todd Rydall
Seconded by: Brad Shewfelt
BE IT RSOLVED THAT Council receives the Clerk’s report regarding the Restricted Acts of Council (“Lame Duck” periods) for the 2026 Municipal Election, noting the two potential restricted periods from August 21, 2026 to October 26, 2026 and from October 26, 2026 to November 14, 2026, and
that the Clerk will advise Council should it enter into a Lame Duck position during either period.
Carried.
iii. Task Summary Sheet & Recent Activity Log
iv. Concern/Information Log – Updates
#96-26
Moved by: Todd Rydall
Seconded by: Wayne Junor
BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council receives the April 16, 2026, Task Summary Sheet & Recent Activity Log and the Concern/Information Log as presented.
Carried.
c. Treasurer’s Report
i. Status of Tax Collection – Verbal Update
- The largest arrears account is now on a payment plan. The second largest has provided post-dated cheques until June.
d. Recreation Committee & Recreation Sub-Committees
e. Cemetery Board
f. Planning Board
i. Mayor’s Verbal Report – Planning Board Meeting
- Mayor Evoy provided a verbal report on his attendance at the March 24, 2026, Planning Board meeting, presenting updates on the Official Plan objectives, consultation process, remaining review steps, and budget status.
g. Police Detachment Board
i. OAPSB Training and Communications Team correspondence
h. Algoma District Services Administrative Board (ADSAB)
i. Algoma District Municipal Association (ADMA)
8. Unfinished Business
a. Final Budget 2026
#97-26
Moved by: Todd Rydall
Seconded by: Wayne Junor
BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council adopts the 2026 Municipal Budget, establishing a municipal taxation levy of $2,083,088, representing a Council-approved levy increase of 3.5%;
AND THAT the Clerk be directed to prepare the 2026 Tax Rates By-law to implement the approved levy.
Carried.
b. Memo: Free Open Arena Horse Nights – Insurance Requirements
#98-26
Moved by: Todd Rydall
Seconded by: Wayne Junor
BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council receive the report titled “Free Open Arena Horse Nights – Insurance Requirements”; and
THAT Council approve proceeding with Free Open Arena Horse Nights with mandatory equestrian liability insurance required for all participants; and
THAT proof of equestrian liability insurance be incorporated into the mandatory waiver and verified as part of the participant registration process; and
THAT staff be directed to assist participants who do not currently hold equestrian liability insurance by identifying accessible insurance options, including potential
collaboration with the North Shore Agricultural Society or other such associations, whose membership programs may provide coverage for riders if they host or support the event; and
THAT staff report back to Council should significant participation barriers arise due to the insurance requirement, including potential solutions or partnership opportunities.
Carried.
9. New Business
a. Setting Waste Disposal Site Spring Clean-up dates
#99-26
Moved by: Brad Shewfelt
Seconded by: Wayne Junor
BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council sets the Waste Disposal Site Spring Clean-up dates for Saturday, May 23, 2026, and Sunday, May 24, 2026.
Carried.
b. NSCAN Participation Request – Council Consideration Motion Withdrawn with no objections.
c. Memo: Provincial BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) Framework – Municipal Implications and Options.
Motion deferred to a future Council meeting once the Clerk has additional information.
10. Notices of Motion
a. Project Youth Program Commitment and Budget Support
#100-26
Moved by: Todd Rydall
Seconded by: Brad Shewfelt
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council of the Township of Laird hereby formally supports Algoma Public Health’s request for municipal participation in the Planet Youth Program; and
THAT Council commit to the five-year funding request from APH in the amount of $777.60 per year for five (5) years; and
THAT Council authorize the Mayor to represent the Township of Laird on the Planet Youth Steering Committee; and
THAT Council commit to promoting and/or hosting community engagement events connected to the Planet Youth initiative; and
THAT Council commit to participating in local priority setting and to enacting changes to municipal policies and practices where necessary and practical to support Planet Youth objectives.
Carried.
11. Closed Session
#101-26
Moved by: Todd Rydall
Seconded by: Brad Shewfelt
BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council proceed into closed session at 8:36 p.m. in accordance with Section 239 (2) (b) personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees and Section 239 (2) (e) litigation or potential litigation.
Carried.
Rise and Report:
- Approval of closed meeting minutes of February 19, 2026 and March 19, 2026.
- Council received an employee update regarding the Road Superintendent under Section 239(2)(b).
- Council received an employee update regarding the Waste Disposal Site Attendant under Section 239(2)(b).
- Council received a litigation update regarding a by-law enforcement matter at 151 Birch Point Drive under Section 239(2)(e).
- Council received updates for information. No direction was given.
#102-26
Moved by: Wayne Junor
Seconded by: Brad Shewfelt
BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council come out of closed meeting session at 8:45 p.m. and continue with the Regular Council Meeting.
Carried.
Consideration of and action on matters arising out of the closed meeting.
N/A
12. Communications and Correspondence
a. Support Resolution: East Zorra-Tavistock, RE: Township of Oro-Medonte – Association of Ontario Road Supervisors Request for Provincial Legislation Amendments, April 2, 2026.
#103-26
Moved by: Todd Rydall
Seconded by: Brad Shewfelt
BE IT RESOLVED THAT COUNCIL of the Township of Laird supports the Township of Oro-Medonte regarding the Association of Ontario Road Supervisors request for Provincial Legislation Amendments to strengthen protections for municipal workers and contractors;
AND THAT this resolution be forwarded to the Premier of Ontario, Michael Kerzner, Solicitor General of Ontario, Jill Dunlop, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Response, Rob Flack, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Prabmeet Sakaria, Minister of Transportation, MPP Ernie Hardeman, Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), Association of Ontario Roads Supervisors (AORS).
Carried.
13. Mayor and Council Comments
Councillor Shewfelt asked that the Acting Road Superintendent report on the backhoe saw at the next meeting. Is this equipment surplus or are we using it?
14. By-laws
a. 2080-26 Use of Corporate Resources for Election Purposes Policy By-law
#104-26
Moved by: Todd Rydall
Seconded by: Wayne Junor
BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council adopts By-law 2080-26, being a by-law to adopt the Use of Corporate Resources for Election Purposes Policy.
Carried.
b. 2081-26 Regulate Election Signs By-law
#105-26
Moved by: Todd Rydall
Seconded by: Wayne Junor
BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council adopts By-law 2018-26, being a by-law to regulate Election Signs within the Township of Laird.
Carried.
c. 2082-26 Conformity By-law
#106-26
Moved by: Brad Shewfelt
Seconded by: Wayne Junor
BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council adopts By-law 2082-26, being a by-law to confirm the proceedings of the meeting of Council held on April 16, 2026.
Carried.
15. Adjournment
#107-26
Moved by: Todd Rydall
Seconded by: Wayne Junor
BE IT RESOLVED THAT this Council shall now adjourn to meet again on April 21, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. for a Special Council Meeting or until the call of the chair.
Carried.
Mayor – (blank) Shawn Evoy
Clerk – (blank) Jennifer Errington
Council Special Meeting – April 21, 2026
PDF pages 11 to 13.
SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES – AGENDA 56
CORPORATION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF LAIRD
April 21, 2026, at 6:00 pm
Laird Hall – 3 Pumpkin Point Road West
Present: Mayor: Shawn Evoy
Councillors: Todd Rydall, Brad Shewfelt, Wayne Junor, Matt Frolick
Clerk: Jennifer Errington
Acting Road Supt.: Ed Lapish
Treasurer: Rhonda Crozier
Delegates: Carol Trainor, Lennox Smith, Dave Farrar, Jacqui Nagel, Ursula Abbott, Mike Pigeon, Jillian Hayes Elliot
1. Call to Order
Mayor Evoy called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
2. Declaration of Pecuniary Interest
3. Agenda Approval
#108-26
Moved by: Wayne Junor
Seconded by: Matt Frolick
BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council hereby approves the April 21, 2026, agenda as presented with the addendum to include Unfinished Business agenda item 8. a. 2026 Surface Treatment Tender Results.
Carried.
4. Delegations and Presentations
5. Adoption of Minutes of Previous Meeting
6. Adoption of Accounts
7. Staff and Committee Reports
8. Unfinished Business
a. 2026 Surface Treatment Tender Results.
#109-26
Moved by: Todd Rydall
Seconded by: Brad Shewfelt
BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council accept the 2026 Surface Treatment Program (Multi Municipal Project) Tender submission from Beamish Construction Inc. in the total amount of $1,445,748.20 for all participating municipalities;
AND THAT Council approve Laird Township’s portion of the work in the amount of $187,428.00 plus applicable HST as per the tender submission;
AND THAT staff be directed to advise the participating municipalities and Beamish Construction Inc. of the Township’s acceptance and to request an amendment to the project specifications to correct the road width from 8.0 metres to 7.0 metres;
AND THAT staff report back to Council on any resulting adjustment to Laird Township’s portion once the amended specifications and revised pricing are confirmed.
Carried.
9. New Business
Joint Meeting with Tarbutt Township
a. Shared Service Agreement with Tarbutt
i. Road Maintenance
Council provided direction to the Clerk to investigate Tarbutt Township By-law 27-2005.
ii. Landfill/Recycling
Council requested that Tarbutt Township Council provide a proposal regarding landfill access.
b. Town Line Road Agreement – By-law 624-86
Council directed the Clerk to prepare a revised draft of By-law 624-86 for Council’s consideration.
c. Fuel Share Agreement
Council discussed the item. No direction was given.
d. Private Roads
Council discussed the item. No action was taken.
10. Notices of Motion
11. Closed Session
12. Communications and Correspondence
13. Mayor and Council Comments
Council engaged in a round-table discussion on several matters. The following directions resulted:
a. Town Line Road – Emulsion Product
Council directed staff to investigate the emulsion product discussed for potential use in the joint resurfacing project planned for next year.
b. Future Joint Meeting
Council directed staff to organize a joint meeting with Tarbutt Township in February 2027, prior to budget deliberations.
c. Regional Mayor Collaboration
Council discussed the need for collaboration among neighbouring municipalities.
No specific direction was given.
d. Bell Canada Landline Service
Council discussed preparing a support letter regarding the retention of landline services.
No specific direction was given.
14. By-laws
a. 2083-26 Conformity By-law
#110-26
Moved by:
Seconded by:
BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council adopts By-law 2083-26, being a by-law to confirm the proceedings of the meeting of Council held on April 21, 2026.
Carried.
15. Adjournment
#111-26
Moved by: Matt Frolick
Seconded by: Wayne Junor
BE IT RESOLVED THAT this Council shall now adjourn to meet again on May 21, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. or until the call of the chair.
Carried.
Mayor – (blank) Shawn Evoy
Clerk – (blank) Jennifer Errington
Recreation Committee Meeting – April 28, 2026
PDF pages 14 to 16.
MINUTES
LAIRD RECREATION COMMITTEE
April 28, 2026, at 7:00 pm
Laird Township Council Chambers
Present: Matt Frolick, Shawn Evoy, Rhonda Crozier, Suzanne Evoy, JoAnne Entwistle and Joanne North and Crytal Wells
1. Call to Order
Chair Matt Frolick called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
2. Declaration of Pecuniary Interest
3. Agenda Approval
#15-26
Moved by: Shawn Evoy
Seconded by: Suzanne Evoy
BE IT RESOLVED THAT Recreation hereby approves the April 28, 2026 agenda with the addition of Planet Youth Algoma. Carried
4. Delegations and Presentations
5. Adoption of Minutes of Previous Meeting
a. Recreation Meeting – March 31, 2026
#16-26
Moved by: Shawn Evoy
Seconded by: Suzanne Evoy
BE IT RESOLVED THAT Recreation approves Recreation Committee minutes of the Regular Meeting of March 31, 2026, as presented. Carried
6. Committee Reports
a. Bar River Hall – The Pub Night was a success. Lots of rental coming up.
b. Finns Bay Wharf – John Hooper has expressed that he does not want to be apart of an Emergency Call.
The committee is having an issue with quorum for meetings.
#17-26
Moved by: Suzanne Evoy
Seconded by: Crystal Wells
BE IT RESOLVED that the Recreation Committee approves of a sub-committee member being removed from the committee if they don’t attend for over three meeting in a row.
Carried
c. Laird Fairgrounds – The Grounds Caretaker is scheduled to start the first week of May. The vehicles are scheduled to come out of storage Saturday May 9 th .
d. Laird Hall – There is a hall meeting coming up to review the budget and select paint colours.
7. Adoption of Accounts
a. Recreation accounts for March 2026
#18-26
Moved by: Shawn Evoy
Seconded by: JoAnne Entwistle
BE IT RESOLVED that the Recreation Committee approves the accounts for March 2026 in the amount of $4,106.42, as presented. Carried
8. Unfinished Business
a. The secretary reported that a lot of resumes have been coming in and that we received funding through Canada Summer Jobs for two employees. One for Main Recreation and one for Heritage.
9. New Business
a. The committee discussed plans for the Appreciation BBQ.
b. Shawn Evoy reported on Planet Youth Algoma. See Attached!
10. Adjournment
#14-26
Moved by: Shawn Evoy
BE IT RESOLVED THAT this Recreation Committee shall now adjourn the meeting and will meet again May 26, 2026. Carried
Chair – (blank) Matt Frolick
Secretary – (blank) Rhonda Crozier
PDF page 16 is a scanned image (for example a signed document, map, photo or a document from another organization) and is not available as text here. Open PDF page 16, or contact the Township office for an accessible format.
General accounts to April 30, 2026
PDF page 17.
Township of Laird
General Cheques for April 2026
| Name | Description | Journal No. | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minister of Finance | Quarts Reg. By-Law | J869 | 128.00 |
| Todd Rydall | ADMA Meeting | J871 | 75.00 |
| Shawn Evoy | ADMA Meeting | J872 | 134.29 |
| Brad Shewfelt | ADMA Meeting | J873 | 152.00 |
| Rhonda Crozier | Joint Council Meeting | J875 | 33.93 |
| Algoma Power | Office | J876 | 185.40 |
| Church | 25.53 | ||
| Heritage Home Hardware | Office Supplies | J877 | 19.62 |
| Fire Marshal's Public Fire Safety | By-Law Supplies | J878 | 432.97 |
| Jeff Dorvault | Website | J882 | 45.76 |
| Bell | Emerg. Man. | J884 | 95.66 |
| Office | " | 395.04 | |
| Starlink | Internet | " | 142.46 |
| City of Timmins | FONOM Reg. | " | 814.08 |
| OBOA | Training Bldg. By-Law | " | 1,345.27 |
| Rogers | By-Law Dogs | " | 5.09 |
| TOTAL | $4,030.10 |
ACCOUNTS CERTIFIED CORRECT
Motion # (Signed) Mayor
To Treasurer of Laird Township Authority Herewith To issue Cheques in payment of Accounts Certified by Clerk as listed above.
(Signed) Clerk
I hereby certify that Accounts listed above have been paid, and amounts are charged to proper expenditure appropriation.
Date Passed by Council (Signed) Treasurer
Roads accounts to April 30, 2026
PDF page 18.
TOWNSHIP OF LAIRD
Road Department
VOUCHER LISTING
| Name | Description | Journal No. | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Payroll | Wages | 20,717.12 | |
| DCR HVAC | Shop | J664 | 167.90 |
| K. Smart Ass | Drainage | J701 | 753.02 |
| Traction | Backhoe | J760 | 204.06 |
| Dump/Plow Truck | " | 1,836.58 | |
| " | " | 180.05 | |
| Grader | " | 443.04 | |
| " | " | −629.11 | |
| Iconix | Safety | J761 | 402.77 |
| Karhi Contracting | Shop | J766 | 345.48 |
| Algoma Power | Shop | J876 | 178.92 |
| Traction | Dump/Plow Truck | J879 | 251.78 |
| Heavy Equipment Doctor | Track Excavator | J880 | 887.30 |
| Bell | Shop | J884 | 101.31 |
| Good Roads | Signs & Lines Education | " | 1,343.23 |
| Rogers | Roads Office | " | 15.52 |
| Superior Propane | Shop | " | 1,408.47 |
| TOTAL | $28,607.44 |
ACCOUNTS CERTIFIED CORRECT
Motion # (Signed) Road Superintendent
To Treasurer of Laird Township Authority Herewith To issue Cheques in payment of Accounts Certified by Road Superintendent as listed above.
(Signed) Mayor I hereby certify that Accounts listed above have been paid, and amounts are charged to Road Expenditure Appropriation.
Date Passed by Council (Signed) Treasurer
Task Summary Sheet & Recent Activity Log
PDF pages 19 to 21.
TASK SUMMARY SHEET RECENT ACTIVITY LOG
| DATE | MOTION # | TASK | CATEGORY | CONTACT | STATUS | TARGET DATE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19-Oct-23 | 231-23 | Council receives the draft Unassumed Road Policy and requests the Clerk make amendments as discussed and prepare a by-law to adopt the policy Note: Draft Unassumed Road Policy has been reviewed by legal counsel, further review and discussion with legal counsel are required in order to refine policy. * Staff are currently working on confirming that the roads listed in policy are actually unassumed (owned by township) and which ones are private. | CLERK | JE | IN PROGRESS | Jun-26 |
| 17-Jul-25 | 174-25 | Council directs staff to schedule a formal proposal review with Access2Pay, explore funding options, and to return to Council with a recommendation as to how this system or others like it may free up an equal or better amount of staff labour and make the case that this system pays for itself in offset labour. Note: Clerk has participated in a Access2Pay meeting to explore product, working on preparing report back to Council. | CLERK | JE | IN PROGERESS | Jun-26 |
| 18-Sep-25 | 211-25 | … AND THAT staff be directed to coordinate with the Township of Macdonald, Meradith and Aberdeen Additional to obtain a joint engineering review, if possible, in the interest of cost- sharing and project alignment. Note: During 2026 OSIM we will have Engineer recommendations for repairs. | CLERK | JE | IN PROGRESS | May-26 |
| 18-Dec-25 | 286-25 | Fuel agreement with Tarbutt Township Roads Department Note: Agreement on May 21, 2026 Agenda for approval. | CLERK | JE | COMPLETED | APRIL |
TASK SUMMARY SHEET RECENT ACTIVITY LOG
| DATE | MOTION # | TASK | CATEGORY | CONTACT | STATUS | TARGET DATE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19-Feb-26 | 33-26 | Council directs staff to set up a meeting with the Drainage Superintendent to discuss drains in the Township. Note: Drainage Superintendent has been provided information on some of the drains in the Township. When he is back in the area he will have a meeting with us to review information. | CLERK | JE IN | PROGRESS | Jun-26 |
| 19-Feb-26 | 35-26 | Council directs staff to sell surplus tires stored at the Municipal Garage in consultation with Road Superintendent. | RDS | EL IN | PROGRESS | Jun-26 |
| 19-Feb-26 | 39-26 | Council directs staff to gather updated quotes for service contracts for an electrician, plumber, furnace repairs and handyman repairs. | TREASURER | RC IN | PROGRESS | Jun-26 |
| 19-Feb-26 | 39-26 | Council authorizes the Heritage Sub-Committee to submit an application to the NOHFC for funding towards the future museum building. | TREASURER | RC IN | PROGRESS | Jun-26 |
| 19-Feb-26 | 39-26 | Council authorizes the Laird Fairgrounds Sub-Committee to submit an application to NOHFC for funding towards the gazebo kitchen project. Note: Application is in draft form, working on quotes. Staff be directed to arrange appropriate signage for the | TREASURER | RC IN | PROGRESS | Jun-26 Jun-26 |
| 19-Feb-26 | 40-26 | Municipal Garage. Note: In process of getting design/quotes for signage. | ADMIN | BA IN | PROGRESS |
TASK SUMMARY SHEET RECENT ACTIVITY LOG
| DATE | MOTION # | TASK | CATEGORY | CONTACT | STATUS | TARGET DATE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19-Feb-26 | 49-26 | Council direct staff to forward the updated draft 2026 Fire Protection Cost-Sharing Agreement to MMAA Council for review and consideration of acceptance. Note: with MMAA Council for review. | CLERK | JE | IN PROGRESS | May-26 |
| 19-Mar-26 | 65-26 | Council directs staff to schedule the Annual Road Tour for September of each year. | CLERK | JE | IN PROGRESS | Sep-26 |
| 02-Apr-26 | 84-26 | Council directed staff to develop a formal Road Association Grant Policy, including calculation methodology, eligibility criteria, and acknowledgement requirements, to be brought forward in a by-law for Council approval. Note: On May 21, 2026 Agenda for approval. | CLERK | JE | COMPLETED | May-26 |
Concern/Information Log – Updates
PDF page 22.
TOWNSHIP OF LAIRD
Complaint & Concern Log
| Date YYYY-MM-DD | Category | General Location | Summary | Action Taken | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| APRIL | |||||
| 2026-04-14 | Livestock on roadway | Pumpkin Point | 3rd or 4th time these cattle have been on road | Owner notified and rectifying will repair fence. | Closed |
| 2026-04-15 | Damaged/bent 911 sign | Calabogie Road | Homeowner felt operator bent sign | Road dept will fix | Closed |
| 2026-04-15 | Signage request | Lakeview | Cross culvert raised and needs signage | Road dept will install bump signs | Closed |
| 2026-04-15 | Culvert | Finns' Bay N | Resident believes culvert blocked | Road dept says culvert flowing | Closed |
| 2026-04-16 | Culvert | Riley Rd | Resident believes culvert blocked due to road dept ditching | Rd Dept said culvert plugged befor the ditching will contact home owner | Closed |
| 2026-04-16 | Massive pot hole | Rydall Mill | Massive pot hole near Hwy 17 | Rd dept aware and will deal fix | Closed |
| 2026-04-24 | Large pothole | Laurel and Pumpkin Point | Rd dept was filling holes but missed this one | Fixed | Closed |
| 2026-04-30 | Hole at culvert | Calabogie E | Needs culvert repalced | Rd Dept aware and its on the list | Closed |
| MAY | |||||
| 2026-05-01 | Driveway culvert lifted | Pumpkin Point | Resident belives Twp should add gravel to his driceway | Rd Dept to discuss with Council | Open |
| 2026-05-01 | Flooding | Government Rd | Beaver dam causeing flooding | Rd Dept contacted trapper | Closed |
| 2026-05-07 | Flooding | McClennon Rd | Beaver dam causeing flooding | Rd dept will look at this next week | Open |
Laird Fairgrounds Sub-committee Minutes – April 14, 2026
PDF pages 23 to 26.
MINUTES OF THE LAIRD FAIRGROUNDS COMMITTEE MEETING HELD AT THE LAIRD TOWNSHIP OFFICE ON TUESDAY, APRIL 14, 2026
MEMBERS PRESENT: Colleen Alloi Ashlee Boychuk Noah Crozier Brad Shewfelt Vasco Dias Justine Lamming Chuck Siddall
SECRETARY: Rhonda Crozier
Road’s Rep: Ed Lapish
Call to order 7:00 pm by Colleen Alloi, Chair
ON MOTION (No. R4-26) Moved by Justine Lamming, seconded by Noah Crozier "That the committee approves the Agenda of April 14, 2026 as presented.”
CARRIED
ON MOTION (No. R5-26) Moved by Brad Shewfelt, seconded by Justine Lamming "That the committee approves the Minutes of February 10, 2026, as circulated.”
CARRIED
Delegations:
Steve McBride from AHA attended and reported that the horse club would like the shoot on the arena extended one or two posts with a gate on the end. He also reported the AHA would like to rent the Gazebo along with the grounds on the weekend of Aug. 8 & 9, 2026.
ON MOTION (No. R6-26) Moved by Chuck Siddall, seconded by Noah Crozier "That the committee approves of the plan from AHA and will proceed with repairs.
CARRIED
Business Arising out of the Minutes:
The committee discussed holding a Free Access Night this year and it is planned for Wednesday nights from 6:30pm to 9:30pm. The council will be discussing insurance issues at their meeting on Thursday. Colleen Alloi discussed an alternative and is looking into it.
The committee discussed the horse arena drainage and it was reported by Ed Lapish that the arena needs to be reshaped with a little sand. Both Ed and Vasco will work on this.
The plans were discussed by the committee on a grant application from NOHFC for the kitchen and accessible washroom at the Gazebo. The project is planned for early 2027.
Ed Lapish to pick up the light fixture from the Co-Op.
It was reported that the NSAS will be purchasing 6 – 10’ gates to be used as a small
pen. NSAS will complete this summer.
New Business:
The BYOB new rules from the LCBO were discussed. The committee is looking for
clarifications.
The Caretaker Vasco will be off work from June 8 – 12, 2026.
Budget:
Passed By Council 2026 2025 2025 2026
Description Budget Cost
OPERATING REVENUE LAIRD FAIRGROUNDS
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 | Column 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laird Fairgrounds Misc. & Rent | 8,175 | 4,580 | 5,000 |
| Laird Fairgrounds Storage Rent | 7,280 | 7,660 | 7,500 |
| Laird Fairgrounds Raceway Contact | 25,000 | 25,000 | 25,000 |
| Total Recreation Revenue | 40,455 | 37,240 | 37,500 |
| 2025 | 2025 | 2026 | |
| Description | Budget | ||
| GENERAL OPERATING EXPENDITURES | |||
| LAIRD FAIRGROUNDS | |||
| Laird Fairgrounds | |||
| Wages - Grounds Keeper Maintenance | 20,500 | 16,879 | 23,000 |
| - Admin. Salaries & Benefits | 7,000 | 2,677 | 5,000 |
| - Roads Labour | 8,000 | 13,572 | 12,000 |
| - Summer Employee | 4,200 | 8,070 | 7,000 |
| Caretaker | 4,000 | 455 | 4,000 |
| Algoma Power Inc. | 1,000 | 880 | 1,200 |
| Mileage | 1,500 | 967 | 1,500 |
| Insurance | 8,062 | 8,062 | 0 |
| Maintenance (2026 Painting) | 1,500 | ||
| Maintenance Gravel | 500 | ||
| Equipment Repair | 2,000 | 3,275 | 3,000 |
| Supplies | 2,000 | 2,479 | 2,000 |
| Misc. Grounds (Animal Water) | 1,000 | 2,307 | 3,000 |
| Telephone | 100 | 62 | 100 |
| Total Laird Fairgrounds | 59,362 | 59,685 | 63,800 |
CAPITAL PROJECTS FUNDED BY RESERVES
Operating Fairgrounds - Gazebo Kitchen Sinks (2025) 3,000
Capital Fairgrounds - Gazebo washrooms (2025) 30,000
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 | Column 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Capital Projects Funded by Reserves | 0 | 0 | 33,000 |
| 2025 | 2025 | 2026 | |
| Description | Budget | ||
| Operating Projects & 5 Year Plan Projects | |||
| Operating Fairgrounds - Electrical Gazebo & Announcers Booth | 3,000 | 3,471 | |
| Operating Fairgrounds - Gazebo Kitchen Sinks (Reserved) | 3,000 | 3,000 | RESERVED |
| Operating Fairgrounds Maintenance - Well Flushing | 2,500 | 1,977 | |
| Operating Fairgrounds Maintenance - Misc. & water repairs | 2,500 | 2,323 | |
| Operating Fairgrounds Gazebo Exterior Doors | 4,500 | 1,179 | |
| Laird Fairgrounds - 2 Holding Tanks | 2,200 | ||
| Laird Fairgrounds - 4 Water Meters | 1,500 | ||
| Laird Fairgrounds - LIR Washroom Maintenance | 1,875 | ||
| Laird Fairgrounds - Sand for Swings and Stalls | 2,000 | ||
| Laird Fairgrounds - Bench and Plaque | 1,000 | ||
| Laird Fairgrounds - Signage for raceway washrooms | 500 | ||
| Laird Fairgrounds - Electrical for Announcers Booth | 3,500 | ||
| Total Operating Other Projects | 15,500 | 11,950 | 12,575 |
| 2025 | 2025 | 2026 | |
| Description | Budget | ||
| Capital 5 Year Plan Projects | |||
| Capital Fairgrounds - Arena Drainage changed to Lighting | 10,000 | 9,858 | |
| Capital Fairgrounds Washroom Outdoor changed to Engineering | 5,000 | 5,088 | |
| Capital Fairgrounds - Water System upgrades | 13,811 | 14,717 | |
| Capital Fairgrounds - New interior Gazebo washrooms (2025 Reserved) | 30,000 | 30,000 | RESERVED |
| Laird Fairgrounds Gazebo Wall (2025 changed to LIR Plumbing & | |||
| Engin.) | 12,000 | 10,594 | 15,000 |
| Laird Fairground s - Horse Stalls | 5,000 | 5,046 | 5,000 |
| Laird Fairgrounds - Reshape & Extend Horse Arena | 8,350 | ||
| Laird Fairgrounds - 7 Lights on Poles redone | 7,000 | ||
| Laird Fairgrounds - Ball Diamond Fence removed | 3,500 | ||
| Laird Fairgrounds - Gazebo Kitchen NOHFC Grant | 20,000 | ||
| Laird Fairgrounds - ECA Study for Septic | 20,000 | ||
| Laird Fairgrounds - Gazebo Outdoor Washrooms | 13,500 | ||
| Total Capital 5 Year Plan Projects | 75,811 | 75,303 | 92,350 |
The next meeting will be held at the Laird Fairgrounds on Tuesday June 16, 2026 at 7:30 p.m.
ON MOTION (No. R7-26) Moved by Justine Lamming
“That the April 14, 2026 meeting be adjourned @ 7:48 pm.” CARRIED
CHAIRPERSON: (blank)
SECRETARY: (blank)
Wharf Sub-committee Minutes – May 6, 2026
PDF pages 27 to 28.
MINUTES
FINNS’ BAY WHARF COMMITTEE MEETING
May 6, 2026 AT 6:00 PM
LOCATION: LAIRD TOWNSHIP OFFICE
Present: Todd Rydall (Chair) Jo-Anne Entwistle (Recording Secretary) , Brad Shewfelt, Donna Connolly, Lee and Carol Ranta, (by phone), Karolina Dick.
Regrets: John Hooper
1. CALL TO ORDER/REVIEW THE AGENDA
(ON MOTION # 07-26) Moved by Brad Shewfelt Seconded by Donna Connolly “That the meeting be called to order by Todd Rydall, chairperson, and that the committee approves the Finns’ Bay Wharf Meeting Sub-committee Agenda of May 6, 2026”
CARRIED
2. MINUTES OF JANUARY 28, 2026
(ON MOTION #08-26) Moved by Karolina Dick, Seconded by Brad Shewfelt “That the committee approves the Finns’ Bay Wharf Sub-Committee minutes of January 28, 2026 as presented”
CARRIED
3. DELEGATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS- None
4. BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES
1) Meet and Greet-Sunday, August 23, 2025
(ON MOTION #09-26) Moved by Jo-Anne Entwistle, Seconded by Karolina Dick “That the planning for the Meet and Greet on August 23, 2026 be deferred to the June meeting.”
CARRIED
2) 2026 Budget-(ON MOTION #10-26) Moved by Brad Shewfelt, Seconded by Donna Connolly “That the handicap outhouse be purchased from the Mennonites for $3050. plus tax. Additional cost will be the stem toilet, 36” grab bar, and 42” grab bar. The stem toilet and grab bars will be installed by members of the Wharf Committee.”
CARRIED
(ON MOTION #11-26) Moved by Donna Connolly, Seconded by Karolina Dick “That Todd Rydall be designated to source and to have installed the flag pole. Flag and hardware will be sourced by Todd.”
CARRIED
(ON MOTION #12-26) Moved by Donna Connolly, Seconded by Karolina Dick “That Todd Rydall source someone to widen the gazebo door and build a ramp.”
CARRIED
6. NEW BUSINESS -No New Business
7. CORRESPONDENCE -None
8. QUESTIONS AND CONCERNS- None
9. DATE OF NEXT MEETING: Wednesday, June 24, 2026 at 6:00PM Location: Finns’ Bay Wharf Gazebo
ADJOURNMENT
(On MOTION # 13 -26) Moved by Donna Connolly, Seconded by Karolina Dick “That the May 6, 2026 meeting be adjourned and the Finns’ Bay Wharf Sub-committee will meet again on Wednesday, June 24, 2026 at 6:00 PM at the Finns’ Bay Wharf Gazebo .”
CARRIED
Chair-(blank) (Todd Rydall)
Recording Secretary-(blank) (Jo-Anne Entwistle)
Laird Hall Sub-committee Minutes – May 12, 2026
PDF pages 29 to 31.
LAIRD HALL COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES
Date: May 12, 2026
Time: 6:30 p.m. Place: Laird Township Hall
PRESENT: Cheryl Frenette, Wayne Junor, Faye Crozier, Heather Taylor, Linda Kiraly (Chair), Jo-Anne Entwistle(Recording Secretary),
CHAIR: Linda Kiraly
1. CALL TO ORDER/REVIEW AGENDA
(ON MOTION # 05-26) Moved by Wayne Junor, Seconded by Heather Taylor “That the meeting be called to order by Linda Kiraly, chairperson, and that the committee approve the Laird Hall Meeting Agenda of May 12, 2026.”
CARRIED
2. MINUTES OF January 20, 2026 (printed & circulated)
(ON MOTION # 06-26 Moved by Cheryl Frennette, Faye Crozier “That the committee approve the Laird Hall Sub-Committee minutes of January 20, 2026.”
CARRIED
4. DELEGATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
5. BUSINESS ARISING FROM MINUTES
1) Laird Hall Caretaker Report:
March 18-there was a smell of propane inside and outside -caretaker contacted the Township Office
-Township Staff came and then called Dean Lamming
-issue was with heat pump and lines to generator needed to be replaced
May 8-there was no power to the thermostat-called Dean Lamming -the breaker was blown
The hole was filled at the end of the ramp
-caretaker will monitor if it becomes tacky in warm weather and tracked into the hall
Rentals have been scarce with just the regulars using the hall
The defibrillator was checked and it is in good order.
2) Laird Hall 2026 Budget-
(ON MOTION # 07-26) Moved by Faye Crozier, Seconded by Cheryl Frennette “That The Laird Hall Committee requests Laird Township Staff to have the siding and outside windows cleaned.”
CARRIED
(ON MOTION # 08-26) Moved by Heather Taylor, Seconded by Cheryl Frennete “That Cheryl Frennete purchase new outdoor Christmas lights and that Heather Taylor purchase new indoor Christmas lights. Each spending approximately $100. and sudmitting the receipts to the Township Office for reimbursement.”
CARRIED
(ON MOTION # 09-26) Moved by Wayne Junor, Seconded by Faye Crozier “That the Laird Hall Committee requests that the $24,900 capital funds be used to complete the following Laird Hall projects in the following order of priority:-
1) trim and paining 2) roof, ice guards and outside vents on siding 3) two new stoves for the kitchen.”
CARRIED
6. OTHER/NEW BUSINESS:
1) Laird Hall painting-
(ON MOTION # 10-26) Moved by Faye Crozier, Seconded by Wayne Junor “That the Laird Hall Committee recommends that Cheryl Frennette purchase testing wall colour samples for possible colours for the Laird Hall interior painting. The samples will be from Beautitone (Home Hardware) in the three following colours:-Walls-WB049-1, Bottom of hall and trim-either DR 97-1 or DR98-0. Cheryl Frennette will source acostic tiles’ material to match the wall colour. Laird Hall Committee members will recover the acostic tiles.”
CARRIED
2) Imperial Cleaning for moss removal from roof overhang on north side of Laird Hall - will not occur as the Laird Hall Committee has prioritized replacement of the roof.
3) Laird Hall Committee Chair-Linda Kiraly resignation
(ON MOTION # 11-26) Moved by Cheryl Frennette, Seconded by Heather Taylor “That the Laird Hall Committee thank Linda Kiraly for her expertise and energy on the committee and we wish her well in B. C. Faye Crozier will chair the September 2026 meeting.”
CARRIED
7. CORRESPONDENCE
1) Letter to Beth Coombs- a note was sent to Beth Coombs with the plaque from the organ donated by the Bagler family to Laird Hall several years ago. The organ has been donated to a Sault Ste. Marie church. (Note filed with the Laird Hall Committee Minutes)
8. QUESTIONS AND CONCERNS
1) If the Laird Hall is successful in receiving the NOHFC Grant, the Laird Hall Committee may need to meet to review the process of implementation.
ADJOURNMENT
(ON MOTION #12-26) Moved by Cheryl Frennette, Seconded by Wayne Junor. ‘That the May 12, 2026 meeting be adjourned and the Laird Hall Committee will meet again on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. at the Laird Hall.”
CARRIED
Chair(blank) (Linda Kiraly)
Recording Secretary(blank)
Cemetery Board Minutes – April 29, 2026
PDF pages 32 to 34.
Cemetery Board
MINUTES
Wednesday, April 29, 2026 @ 6:00 p.m. Location: Township Boardroom
Present: Chairperson: Shawn Evoy
Members: Brad Shewfelt, Matt Frolick, Merril Evoy, Darrin Evoy
Regrets: Allen Cook
Secretary-Treasurer: Jennifer Errington
1. Routine Matters
a) Approval of Agenda
#01-26
Moved by: Matt Frolick
Seconded by: Brad Shewfelt
BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Cemetery Board hereby approves the April 29, 2026 agenda.
Carried.
b) Approval of Cemetery Board Minutes of December 1, 2025
#02-26
Moved by: Merril Evoy
Seconded by: Matt Frolick
BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Cemetery Board approves the Cemetery Board minutes of December 1, 2025.
Carried.
2. Delegations
3. Business Arising out of the Minutes
a) Plot map & layout – Chair’s Update
The Chair provided a verbal update on the plot map and layout project. The Board reached consensus to have Boyd Frenette complete a site layout and replace the plot pins, after which the Board will continue with the map correction project.
b) DRAFT Cemetery By-law Review
i. Summary of Submitted Comments
The Clerk presented the written comments submitted by the Chair, which were included in the agenda package. Member Darin Evoy presented his written comments at the meeting, and these were received for the Board’s consideration.
ii. Member Discussion – Additional Proposed Amendments
Members discussed the proposed amendments and identified additional changes for consideration. The Clerk will incorporate the amendments based on the written submissions and the direction provided during the meeting.
iii. Section-by-Section Review of Draft By-law
The Board conducted a section-by-section review of the draft by-law and identified areas requiring revision. During the review, the Board passed the following motion:
#03-26
Moved by:
Seconded by:
BE IT RESOLVED THAT every internment, including cremations, must be identified with a marker, and that the cemetery rules provide for either two cremations on a full burial lot or four cremations in a cremation-only plot, with a minimum marker size of 8 inches by 4 inches.
Carried.
iv. Direction to Staff
The Board directed staff to confirm whether the proposed interment limits and marker requirements are permissible under current legislation and the existing cemetery licence, noting that the current by-law allows one full burial plus four cremations.
c) Phase 3 – Stone Straightening Capital Project
The Board discussed the timing of the Phase 3 stone straightening project. It was noted that the project can proceed once Boyd Frenette has completed running the lines as part of the plot layout work. The Chair will prepare a tender for the straightening of approximately 100 stones. It was also noted that one previously repaired stone now requires additional corrective work.
d) East Line Property Purchase – Update
The Secretary-Treasurer provided an update on the East Line property purchase. It was reported that an issue has been identified with the title on the road allowance. The Township’s solicitor will have a title searcher investigate the matter and report back.
e) North Side Access Road – Spring Site Review
The Board discussed the status of the north side access road. It was noted
that Boyd Frenette will need to complete the required layout work before further decisions can be made. Members also discussed that individual Board members may visit the site independently, outside of a formal meeting, and report their observations back to the Board.
4. New Business
5. Five-year plan
6. Budget
a) 2026 Cemetery Budget – Approved by Council April 16, 2026
7. Correspondence
8. Meetings
a) Set dates for next meeting
#04-26
Moved by: Darin Evoy
Seconded by: Merril Evoy
BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Cemetery Board sets the next meeting date for Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at 5 p.m.
Carried.
9. Adjourn meeting
#05-26
Moved by: Brad Shewfelt
Seconded by: Merril Evoy
BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Cemetery Board be adjourned at 7:44 p.m.
Carried.
Memo: Government Road Bridge – Expansion Joint Movement & Recommended Next Steps
PDF pages 35 to 38.
TOWNSHIP OF LAIRD
MEMORANDUM
Date: May 21, 2026
To: Mayor Evoy and Council
From: Jennifer Errington, Clerk Administrator
Subject: Government Road Bridge – Expansion Joint Movement & Recommended Next Steps
Purpose:
To provide Council with an update from Tulloch Engineering regarding ongoing movement at the Government Road Bridge, the status of the expansion joint repairs, and recommended next steps to assess long-term structural stability.
Background:
Since the release of the bridge in 2024, Tulloch Engineering has been monitoring the north abutment, ballast wall, and expansion joint areas for movement. Expansion joint in-fill panels were installed to address public safety concerns related to large gaps at the joint.
Tulloch Engineering continues to monitor the structure and has provided updated measurements and recommendations as of May 2026.
Summary of Engineering Findings
1. Continued Movement at the North Abutment
- Measurements taken in May 2026 show the expansion gap has widened 20 mm since September 2024.
- Additional measurements at the ballast wall and bearing plates confirm 20–25 mm of overall movement during the same period.
- The transition on/off the bridge remains level, and there have been no plow-related issues , unlike pre-2024 conditions.
2. Cause of Movement
Tulloch Engineering believes the movement is due to consolidation of clay soils behind the abutment.
- As the clay compresses under the weight of the backfill, the abutment rotates slightly, causing the ballast wall to move away from the bridge.
- The west corner of the north approach shows significantly more settlement than the east side.
- Even areas with minimal grade raise show evidence of clay settlement.
3. Structural Concerns
- The support columns installed in 2024 have allowed the bridge to slide forward as intended.
- Tulloch estimates the north abutment may have moved up to 100 mm (4") since the bridge was originally constructed.
- Continued settlement may eventually impact the footing or piles , creating a risk to long-term structural integrity.
Repair Options Identified by Tulloch Engineering
Tulloch has outlined four potential approaches to address the ongoing rotation and settlement:
- Tension Rods/Cables — Install rods across the river to counteract abutment rotation.
- Helical Piles — Install piles along the wingwalls and tie them into the footing to reduce settlement forces.
- Lightweight Fill Replacement — Excavate the approach backfill and replace with insulation/lightweight material to reduce load on clay soils.
- Additional Support Piles — Excavate approaches and install new piles behind the abutment.
Preferred Option (per Tulloch)
Tulloch advises that removal of the existing approach backfill and replacement with lightweight/insulation material is the option most likely to succeed. However, this would require removal of the concrete approach slabs, which are currently in good condition.
Recommended Next Step: Geotechnical Investigation
Tulloch recommends completing a soil sampling and consolidation analysis to determine:
- The remaining amount of settlement expected in the clay soils.
- Whether the movement is nearing completion or likely to continue.
- The most appropriate long-term structural repair option.
Scope of Work
- Drill rig on site for approximately one day .
- Soil samples taken at the footing level and approximately 10 ft deeper .
- Laboratory consolidation testing.
Estimated Cost
Tulloch estimates the investigation and testing at approximately $20,000 .
Proposal Availability
If Council wishes to proceed, Tulloch can prepare a formal proposal , including:
- Detailed scope
- Confirmed subcontractor drilling costs
- Timeline
- Updated cost estimate
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
- The geotechnical investigation would be the first step in determining the scale and cost of any required structural repairs.
- Repair options vary significantly in cost and complexity; pricing will depend on the results of the soil testing.
OPTIONS FOR COUNCIL
- Proceed with Geotechnical Investigation Authorize Tulloch Engineering to prepare a formal proposal for soil sampling and consolidation testing.
- Defer Pending Further Discussion Request Tulloch attend a Council meeting to present findings and answer questions.
- Request Additional Options Seek alternative engineering opinions or phased approaches.
RECOMMENDATION
Given the continued movement at the north abutment and the potential risk to the bridge foundations, it is recommended that Council authorize Tulloch Engineering to prepare a formal proposal for the geotechnical investigation, at an estimated cost of $20,000, to allow Council to make an informed decision on long-term repairs.
Recommended Resolution:
BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council receive the report of the Clerk regarding the Government Road Bridge – Expansion Joint Movement;
AND THAT Council direct Tulloch Engineering to prepare a formal proposal for soil sampling and consolidation testing at the north abutment of the Government Road Bridge, at an estimated cost of approximately $20,000, in order to determine long-term repair options for the structure.
Memo: Fuel Service Agreement
PDF pages 39 to 48.
TOWNSHIP OF LAIRD
MEMORANDUM
Date: May 21, 2026
To: Mayor Evoy and Council
From: Jennifer Errington, Clerk Administrator
Subject: Fuel Services Agreement
Purpose:
To present Council with the draft Fuel Services Agreement developed with input from staff, legal counsel, and the Township’s insurance provider, and to seek Council’s direction to forward the agreement to the Township of Tarbutt for their review.
Background:
At the December 18, 2025, Council meeting, Council directed staff to prepare a fuel cost sharing agreement with the Township of Tarbutt through the following motion:
‑
#286-25
Moved by: Todd Rydall
Seconded by: Brad Shewfelt
BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council acknowledge receipt of the letter dated November 24, 2025, from the Township of Tarbutt requesting consideration of an agreement that would permit the Tarbutt Roads Department to access the Township of Laird’s fuel tanks;
AND THAT Council direct the Clerk and Road Superintendent to review the proposal, including operational, financial, legal, and insurance implications, and to report back to Council with options and a recommended course of action;
AND THAT staff be further directed to consult with the Township of Tarbutt regarding potential terms, cost-sharing arrangements, and responsibilities related to fuel supply, maintenance, and inspection of tanks and pumps.
AND THAT in the short-term Laird agrees to assist Tarbutt Township the interim.
Carried.
Discussion
Staff have worked collaboratively with Tarbutt Township administration, legal counsel, and the Township’s insurance provider to develop a formal Fuel Services Agreement that outlines:
- Access permissions for Tarbutt’s Roads Department
- Fuel cost-sharing methodology , including invoicing and reconciliation
- Responsibilities for maintenance, inspection, and compliance with TSSA and environmental requirements
- Liability, indemnification, and insurance provisions to protect both municipalities
- Operational procedures for fuel dispensing, record-keeping, and reporting
The draft agreement reflects the operational realities of both municipalities and ensures that fuel access is provided in a controlled, accountable, and legally defensible manner.
Once Council has reviewed and endorsed the draft agreement, staff will forward it to Tarbutt Township Council for their formal review. Should both municipalities be satisfied with the terms, the agreement will be brought back for execution.
Financial Impact
Fuel costs will be recovered from Tarbutt Township based on actual usage, with administrative and maintenance cost sharing as outlined in the agreement. No additional unbudgeted expenditures are anticipated.
‑
Recommendation
2
That Council review the draft Fuel Services Agreement, and provide direction to staff regarding next steps.
Recommended Resolution:
BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council receive the report titled Fuel Services Agreement dated May 21, 2026;
AND THAT Council endorse, in principle, the draft Fuel Services Agreement as presented;
AND THAT staff be directed to forward the draft Fuel Services Agreement to the Township of Tarbutt for their review and comment;
AND FURTHER THAT, upon confirmation that both municipalities are satisfied with the final terms of the Fuel Services Agreement, a by-law be brought forward for Council’s consideration to approve the agreement and to authorize the Mayor and Clerk to execute it on behalf of the Township of Laird.
ATTACHMENT
- Fuel Services Agreement
FUEL SERVICES AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT is made effective as of the [Insert Date] (the "Effective Date").
BETWEEN:
The Corporation of the Township of Laird (hereinafter referred to as the "Supplier")
AND:
The Corporation of the Township of Tarbutt (hereinafter referred to as the "Purchaser") (Collectively referred to as the "Parties" and individually as a "Party")
WHEREAS the Supplier and the Purchaser are both municipal corporations governed by the Municipal Act, 2001 , S.O. 2001, c. 25, as amended;
AND WHEREAS pursuant to the Municipal Act, 2001 , municipalities are authorized to enter into agreements with other municipalities regarding the shared use of municipal facilities and the joint provision of services;
AND WHEREAS the Supplier owns and operates fuel tanks and pumps located at 149 Pumpkin Point Road West, Laird, Ontario (the "Facility");
AND WHEREAS the Purchaser desires to access and use the Facility for the purpose of refueling municipal vehicles and equipment, and the Supplier is agreeable to permitting such access and use subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein;
NOW THEREFORE , in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements contained herein, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows:
1. PURPOSE
This Agreement permits the Purchaser’s Roads Department to access and use the fuel tanks and pumps located at the Facility for the exclusive purpose of refueling municipal vehicles and equipment.
2. TERM
This Agreement shall commence on the Effective Date and shall continue in full force and effect until terminated in accordance with Section 8 of this Agreement.
3. ACCESS AND OPERATIONS
(a) 24/7 Access: The Purchaser’s authorized employees shall have unrestricted access to the Facility at all times, twenty-four (24) hours per day, seven (7) days per week.
(b) Keys and Entry Control: The Supplier's Roads Superintendent shall provide keys (or access cards/codes) to all Purchaser authorized employees who require access for operational purposes. The Purchaser is strictly responsible for safeguarding all provided access mechanisms.
(c) Compliance with Protocols: The Purchaser shall comply with all safety, environmental, and operational protocols, policies, and procedures established by the Supplier, including any updates communicated in writing from time to time.
(d) Authorized Vehicles Only: The Purchaser shall ensure that only authorized municipal vehicles and equipment are refuelled at the Facility. Fuel shall not be dispensed into personal vehicles or unauthorized portable containers.
4. FINANCIAL ARRANGEMENTS
(a) Fuel Pricing: The Purchaser shall pay the Supplier the current per-litre price plus HST that the Supplier is billed for all fuel dispensed to the Purchaser.
(b) Invoicing and Payment: The Supplier shall issue invoices to the Purchaser on a monthly basis. Payment is due and payable within thirty (30) days of the invoice date.
(c) Maintenance and Repair Costs: Any costs, fees, or expenses arising from maintenance, inspections, or repairs attributable to the Purchaser’s use of the Facility fuel system, save and except reasonable wear and tear, shall be at the sole expense and responsibility of the Purchaser. In the event that any such maintenance, inspection, or repair is required, the Purchaser shall provide written notice to the Supplier forthwith. The Supplier shall have the exclusive right to coordinate and execute the necessary repairs or maintenance. Following the completion of the work, the Supplier shall invoice the Purchaser for the total costs incurred, and the Purchaser shall pay such invoice in full within thirty (30) days of the invoice date.
5. MAINTENANCE AND INSPECTION
(a) Regulatory Compliance: Both Parties will ensure that the fuel tanks and pumps are maintained in strict accordance with all applicable environmental and safety regulations of the Province of Ontario and the federal laws of Canada, including the requirements of the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA).
(b) Inspections: Inspections of the Facility and equipment will occur monthly, with all resulting documentation shared promptly between both Parties.
6. ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES
(a) Spill Prevention: The Purchaser shall exercise the highest degree of care to prevent the spill, release, or discharge of fuel or any other hazardous materials while utilizing the Facility.
(b) Spill Reporting: In the event of a fuel spill or environmental release caused by the Purchaser, its employees, or agents, the Purchaser shall immediately notify the Supplier and, where required by law, the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP), the Spills Action Centre, and any other applicable regulatory authorities.
(c) Remediation and Clean-Up: The Purchaser shall be solely responsible, at its own expense, for the immediate containment, clean-up, and remediation of any spill or environmental contamination at the Facility caused by the negligence, acts or omissions of the Purchaser or its employees, in accordance with all applicable environmental laws.
(d) Purchaser Indemnity: The Purchaser shall indemnify, defend and hold the Supplier and the Supplier’s elected officials, officers, employees, agents, contractors, successors and assigns, free and harmless from and against any claims (including third party claims), damages, losses, forfeitures, penalties, expenses or liabilities (including reasonable legal fees and other costs of litigation) arising from or caused in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, by any of the following, the foregoing indemnification shall survive any expiration or early termination of this Agreement:
(a) the discharge in or from the Facility by the acts or negligence of the Purchaser or its elected officials, officers, agents, employees, contractors or subcontractors (“Supplier Parties”) of any Hazardous Material or Hazardous Substances which are not in compliance with all Environmental Laws, or the disposal, release, threatened release, discharge, or generation of Hazardous Material or Hazardous Substances which are not in compliance with all Environmental Laws to, in, on, under, about, or from the Facility by the Purchaser or any of the Purchaser Parties, or
(b) the failure of the Purchaser or any of the Purchaser Parties to comply with any Environmental Laws.
"Environmental Laws" means any and all federal, provincial and municipal laws, by-laws and regulations relating to:
(a) emission, discharges, spills, releases or threatened releases of pollutants, contaminants, "Hazardous Materials " (as hereinafter defined), or hazardous
or toxic materials or wastes onto land or into ambient air, surface water, ground water, wetlands, septic systems;
(b) the use, treatment, storage, disposal, handling, of Hazardous Materials or hazardous and/or toxic wastes, material products or by-products (or of equipment or apparatus containing Hazardous Materials), or
(c) pollution or the protection of human health or the environment.
"Hazardous Materials" means
(i) hazardous materials, hazardous wastes, and hazardous substances as those terms are defined under any Environmental Laws,
(ii) petroleum and petroleum products including crude oil and any fractions thereof;
(iii) natural gas, synthetic gas, and any mixtures thereof;
(iv) asbestos or any material which contains any hydrated mineral silicate, including, but not limited to chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite, tremolite, anthophyllite, or actinolite, whether friable or non-friable;
(v) PCB's or PCB- containing materials, or fluids;
(vi) any other hazardous or radioactive substance, material, contamination, pollutant, or waste; and
(vii) any substance with respect to which any Environmental Law or Governmental Authority requires environmental investigation, monitoring or remediation. For purposes hereof, " Governmental Authority " shall mean any local, regional, provincial or federal entity, agency, court, judicial or quasi-judicial body, or legislative or quasi-legislative body.
7. INSURANCE AND INDEMNIFICATION
(a) Commercial General Liability: Each Party shall maintain Commercial General Liability insurance with a minimum limit of Five Million Dollars ($5,000,000) per occurrence for bodily injury, death, and property damage.
(b) Automobile Liability: The Purchaser shall maintain Automobile Liability insurance for all owned, non-owned, and hired vehicles accessing the Facility, with a minimum limit of Two Million Dollars ($2,000,000) per occurrence.
(c) Environmental/Pollution Liability: The Purchaser shall maintain Environmental Impairment or Sudden and Accidental Pollution Liability insurance with a minimum limit of Two Million Dollars ($2,000,000) per occurrence to cover third-party bodily injury, property damage, and clean-up costs arising from pollution conditions.
(d) Additional Insured: The Purchaser shall name the Supplier as an "Additional Insured" on its Commercial General Liability and Environmental Liability policies with respect to liability arising out of the Purchaser's operations at the Facility.
(e) Certificates of Insurance and Notice of Cancellation: Upon execution of this Agreement, and annually thereafter, each Party shall provide the other with Certificates of Insurance evidencing that the required coverages are in full force and effect. Furthermore, the Purchaser shall ensure that its policies of insurance contain a provision or endorsement requiring the insurer to provide the Supplier with at least thirty (30) days' prior written notice of any policy cancellation, material change, or non-renewal.
(f) Indemnification: The Purchaser covenants to defend, indemnify and save harmless the Supplier, its elected officials, officers, employees, agents, contractors and subcontractors (“Supplier Parties”) from and against any and all claims and demands, actions, causes of action, losses, expenses, fines, costs (including legal costs), interest and damages of every nature and kind whatsoever including but not limited to injury or death to person or damage and destruction of property, including loss of revenue or incurred expense resulting and arising out of or occasioned by the Purchaser’s use of the Facility or breach of this Agreement. And the Purchaser further covenants to defend, indemnify and save harmless the Supplier and Supplier Parties with respect to any encumbrance on or damage to the Facility occasioned by or arising from the act, default, error, omission, fraud or negligence of the Purchaser, its elected officials, officers, agents, employees, contractors or subcontractors (“Purchaser Parties”) and the Purchaser agrees that the foregoing indemnity shall survive the termination of this Agreement notwithstanding any provisions of this Agreement to the contrary and be in addition to any insurance to be provided by the Purchaser and this indemnification shall bind the Purchaser Parties.
8. TERMINATION
(a) Notice Requirement: Either Party may terminate this Agreement without cause at any time by providing thirty (30) days’ prior written notice to the other Party.
(b) Immediate Termination for Default: The Supplier may terminate this Agreement immediately upon written notice if the Purchaser commits a material breach of this Agreement (including safety or environmental violations) and fails to remedy such breach within five (5) days of receiving written notice of the breach.
(c) Return of Access and Cessation of Use: Upon the effective date of termination, the Purchaser shall immediately return all keys and access devices issued under this Agreement, pay all outstanding invoices, and cease all access to and use of the Facility.
9. GENERAL PROVISIONS
(a) Governing Law: This Agreement shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the Province of Ontario and the federal laws of Canada applicable therein.
(b) Notices: Any notice required or permitted to be given under this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed properly given if delivered personally, sent by courier, or transmitted by email to the following addresses:
To Supplier: [Insert Contact Person/Title, Address, Email]
To Purchaser: [Insert Contact Person/Title, Address, Email]
Any notice given by courier shall be deemed to have been received on the fifth (5th) business day following the date of dispatch. Any notice given by email shall be deemed to have been received on the date of transmission if sent before 5:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST) on a business day. If transmitted by email after 5:00 p.m. EST, or on a Saturday, Sunday, or statutory holiday in Ontario, the notice shall be deemed to have been received on the next business day.
(c) Severability: If any provision of this Agreement is held to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, such provision shall be severed, and the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect.
(d) Force Majeure: Neither Party shall be liable for damages caused by delay or failure to perform its obligations under this Agreement where such delay or failure is caused by an event beyond its reasonable control, such as acts of God, extreme weather, strikes, or government action.
(e) Dispute Resolution: In the event of a dispute arising out of this Agreement, the Parties agree to first attempt to resolve the dispute through good faith negotiations between the respective Chief Administrative Officers (or equivalents) of each Township. If the dispute cannot be resolved through negotiation within thirty (30) days, the Parties may mutually agree to submit the dispute to non-binding mediation. Should mediation fail or be declined, the dispute may then be submitted to binding arbitration in accordance with the Arbitration Act, 1991 , S.O. 1991, c. 17, or alternatively, be resolved through the courts of Ontario.
(f) Survival: The provisions of this Agreement pertaining to indemnification, environmental responsibilities, and financial obligations incurred prior to termination shall survive the expiration or termination of this Agreement.
(g) Entire Agreement: This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the Parties pertaining to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior agreements, understandings, negotiations, and discussions, whether oral or written.
(h) Amendments: No amendment, modification, or waiver of any provision of this Agreement shall be valid or binding unless it is in writing and signed by authorized representatives of both Parties.
(i) Waiver: The failure of either Party to enforce any provision of this Agreement shall not be construed as a waiver or limitation of that Party's right to subsequently enforce and compel strict compliance with every provision of this Agreement.
(j) Assignment: Neither Party may assign or transfer this Agreement, or any of its rights or obligations hereunder, without the prior written consent of the other Party.
(k) Relationship of Parties: The Parties are independent entities. Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed to create a partnership, joint venture, or agency relationship between the Parties.
(l) Counterparts and Electronic Signatures: This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument. Delivery of an executed counterpart by electronic transmission (including PDF via email) shall be equally as effective as delivery of an original executed counterpart.
10. SIGNATURES
IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the Parties have executed this Fuel Services Agreement by their duly authorized representatives as of the Effective Date.
The Corporation of the Township of Laird - Supplier
Signature: (blank)
Name: (blank)
Title: (blank)- I have authority to bind the Corporation.
Date: (blank)
The Corporation of the Township of Tarbutt- Purchaser
Signature: (blank)
Name: (blank)
PDF page 48 is a scanned image (for example a signed document, map, photo or a document from another organization) and is not available as text here. Open PDF page 48, or contact the Township office for an accessible format.
Road Grant Policy
PDF pages 49 to 64.
TOWNSHIP OF LAIRD
MEMORANDUM
Date: May 21, 2026
To: Mayor Evoy and Council
From: Jennifer Errington, Clerk Administrator
Subject: Road Association Grant Program Policy
Purpose:
The purpose of this report is to present Council with the finalized draft Road Association Grant Program Policy , prepared in accordance with Council direction under Resolution #84-26, and to seek Council’s direction on adopting the Policy. This report also provides the solicitor’s input regarding insurance requirements and highlights one existing provision for Council’s awareness.
Given the timing of annual grant payments, staff note that adopting the Policy at this meeting would allow Road Associations to receive their funding without delay.
Background:
At the meeting of April 2, 2026, Council adopted Resolution #84-26, which:
- received the Clerk’s report on Private and Unmaintained Roads;
- approved a 15% increase to the annual Road Association Grant allocation, to $5,520;
- directed staff to develop a formal Road Association Grant Program Policy, including calculation methodology, eligibility criteria, and acknowledgement requirements; and
- directed staff to ensure appropriate signage is installed on all unassumed and private roads, with legal review of wording.
Staff have since worked with the Township solicitor to prepare the draft Policy attached as Schedule A.
Analysis
1. Solicitor’s Input – Proof of Insurance (Section 13.3)
The Township solicitor has advised that Section 13.3 could be strengthened by replacing the permissive wording (“may”) with mandatory wording (“shall”) to require Road Associations to provide proof of insurance satisfactory to the Township .
This change would enhance the Township’s risk-management position. However, staff note that insurance may be cost-prohibitive for some associations, and Council may wish to consider this when determining whether to adopt the solicitor’s recommended amendment.
2. Proof of Signing Authority (Section 8.1(b))
Section 8.1(b) of the draft Policy requires Road Associations to provide proof of signing authority . Staff wish to draw Council’s attention to this requirement, as it is an important administrative safeguard.
To operationalize this provision, staff will require a Board Resolution naming two authorized individuals who may sign on behalf of the Association. This approach:
- formalizes governance structures;
- ensures clarity of authority;
- reduces administrative disputes; and
- addresses ongoing issues with at least one Road Association where no one can confirm who has the authority to act.
No amendment to the Policy is required; this section is included for Council’s awareness.
RECOMMENDATION
That Council review the two options below and provide direction on how to proceed. Adoption of the Policy at this meeting would allow staff to release the 2026 Road Association Grant payments without delay.
Recommended By-law:
Version A – By-law WITH Mandatory Insurance Requirement
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF LAIRD BY-LAW XXXX-26 Being a by-law to adopt the Road Association Grant Program Policy
WHEREAS Council for the Township of Laird, through Resolution #84-26, directed staff to develop a formal Road Association Grant Program Policy, including calculation methodology, eligibility criteria, and acknowledgement requirements;
AND WHEREAS staff have prepared the Road Association Grant Program Policy attached as Schedule A to this by-law;
AND WHEREAS Council has considered the solicitor’s recommendation to amend Section 13.3 of the Policy to require Road Associations to provide proof of insurance satisfactory to the Township;
NOW THEREFORE the Council of the Corporation of the Township of Laird
ENACTS AS FOLLOWS:
1. That the Road Association Grant Program Policy , attached as Schedule A and forming part of this by-law, is hereby adopted.
2. That Section 13.3 of the Policy shall require Road Associations to provide proof of insurance satisfactory to the Township.
3. That staff are authorized to administer the Policy , including communicating requirements to eligible Road Associations and updating Township documentation accordingly.
4. That this by-law shall come into force and take effect on the date of its passing.
READ A FIRST, SECOND AND THIRD TIME AND FINALLY PASSED this ___ day of (blank), 2026.
Mayor (blank)
Clerk (blank)
Version B – By-law WITHOUT Mandatory Insurance Requirement
(Policy remains as drafted; Council has not adopted the solicitor’s amendment.)
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF LAIRD BY-LAW XX-2026 Being a by-law to adopt the Road Association Grant Program Policy
WHEREAS Council for the Township of Laird, through Resolution #84-26, directed staff to develop a formal Road Association Grant Program Policy, including calculation methodology, eligibility criteria, and acknowledgement requirements;
AND WHEREAS staff have prepared the Road Association Grant Program Policy attached as Schedule A to this by-law;
AND WHEREAS Council has reviewed the solicitor’s recommendation regarding Section 13.3 but has elected not to amend the Policy at this time;
NOW THEREFORE the Council of the Corporation of the Township of Laird
ENACTS AS FOLLOWS:
1. That the Road Association Grant Program Policy , attached as Schedule A and forming part of this by-law, is hereby adopted.
2. That Section 13.3 of the Policy shall remain as drafted , permitting Road Associations to provide proof of insurance on a voluntary basis.
3. That staff are authorized to administer the Policy , including communicating requirements to eligible Road Associations and updating Township documentation accordingly.
4. That this by-law shall come into force and take effect on the date of its passing.
READ A FIRST, SECOND AND THIRD TIME AND FINALLY PASSED this ___ day of (blank), 2026.
Mayor (blank)
Clerk (blank)
Motion to Pass the By-law – Road Association Grant Program Policy
BE IT RESOLVED THAT By-law XX-26 , being a by-law to adopt the Road Association Grant Program Policy attached as Schedule A , passed in open Council this 21st day of May, 2026;
AND THAT the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to sign and seal the by-law on behalf of the Corporation of the Township of Laird.
ATTACHMENT
- Road Association Grant Program Policy
Township of Laird
Road Association Grant Program Policy
Policy No. [Policy Number]
Effective Date: [Date]
Approved By: Council Resolution No. [Resolution Number]
1. Purpose
1.1 The purpose of this policy is to establish a discretionary grant program through which the Township of Laird may provide limited financial assistance to eligible Road Associations for road-related work on private roads and unassumed roads within the Township.
1.2 This program is intended to support access to properties served by such roads while preserving the legal position of the Township.
1.3 For greater certainty, neither this policy nor any grant made under it shall, by itself:
a. determine the legal status of any road;
b. constitute assumption of any road by the Township for maintenance or repair purposes;
c. cause any road to be considered maintained by the Township or maintained at public expense;
d. create any municipal duty to inspect, maintain, repair, improve, winter maintain, patrol, sign, or make any road safe for travel;
e. create any representation, warranty, undertaking, standard of care, or reliance interest in favour of any person; or
f. create any liability on the part of the Township arising from the condition, use, non-use, maintenance, repair, improvement, or status of any road or any work funded under this policy, except to the extent such liability may otherwise arise at law.
1.4 This policy formalizes the Township's grant practice, but does not create any entitlement to funding in any year.
2. Authority
2.1 This policy is established pursuant to section 107 of the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001,
c. 25, as amended, and any other applicable statutory authority.
3. Definitions
In this policy:
3.1 "Applicant" means the individual or individuals authorized by a Road Association to submit an application and execute required documents on its behalf.
3.2 "Clerk" means the Clerk of the Township of Laird, or designate.
3.3 "Council" means the Council of the Corporation of the Township of Laird.
3.4 "Grant" means discretionary financial assistance provided by the Township under this policy.
3.5 "Private Road" means a road that is not owned, assumed, or maintained by the Township.
3.6 "Road Association" means a group of property owners organized for the purpose of managing, maintaining, repairing, or improving a private road or an unassumed road serving their properties, whether incorporated or unincorporated.
3.7 "Township" means the Corporation of the Township of Laird.
3.8 "Treasurer" means the Treasurer of the Township of Laird, or designate.
3.9 "Unassumed Road" means a road allowance, highway, or other road within the Township that has not been assumed by the Township for maintenance. For greater certainty, the legal status, ownership, jurisdiction, or public or private character of any such road is not determined by this policy or by the payment of a Grant.
3.1O "Work" means road-related maintenance, repair, improvement, grading, resurfacing, brushing, snow removal, ditching, drainage work, culvert work, or other similar activity funded in whole or in part by a Grant.
4. Nature of Program
4.1 Grants under this policy are discretionary and subject to annual budget approval by Council.
4.2 A Grant is financial assistance only. It is not:
a. consideration for services to the Township;
b. payment for maintenance performed by or on behalf of the Township;
c. evidence that a road is maintained at public expense;
d. evidence that a road has been assumed by the Township;
e. evidence that the Township has inspected, approved, certified, supervised, or accepted any road or any Work; or
f. evidence that the Township has accepted ownership, possession, care, custody, management, control, or responsibility with respect to any road or Work.
4.3 Council may establish, vary, reduce, suspend, or terminate the program, or the amount budgeted for the program, at any time.
4.4 Receipt of a Grant in one year does not create any right, legitimate expectation, precedent, or claim to funding in any other year.
5. Legal Status of Roads
5.1 The acceptance of an application, the calculation of a Grant, or the payment of a Grant is made solely for the purpose of administering discretionary financial assistance.
5.2 Neither this policy nor any Grant made under it constitutes:
a. a determination of the legal status of any road;
b. a declaration that any road is or is not a public highway, public road, private road, road allowance, or road maintained at public expense;
c. an admission that the Township has or does not have jurisdiction, ownership, possession, control, or responsibility with respect to any road; or
d. an assumption of maintenance responsibility by the Township.
5.3 The legal status of any road shall be determined only in accordance with applicable law and the relevant facts.
5.4 Where a road is an unassumed municipal road allowance or other road in which the Township may have a legal interest, the payment of a Grant does not constitute assumption for maintenance and does not expand any municipal obligation that may otherwise exist at law.
6. Eligibility
6.1 To be eligible for a Grant, a Road Association must:
a. represent a private road or an unassumed road located within the Township of Laird;
b. identify at least two authorized signing officers, including a Chair or equivalent and a
Secretary/Treasurer or equivalent;
c. submit a completed application in the form required by the Township;
d. provide proof of the signing officers' authority to bind the Road Association, satisfactory to the Township;
e. execute the Township's Grant Acceptance, Release and Indemnity in the form attached as Schedule "A", or in such other form as the Township may require; and
f. be in compliance with any prior grant conditions imposed by the Township.
6.2 Where a Road Association is unincorporated, the Township may require a member resolution or other proof of authority in a form satisfactory to the Township.
6.3 The Township may reject any application that is incomplete, inaccurate, late, or otherwise unsatisfactory.
7. Annual Budget and Allocation
7.1 The total amount available for Road Association Grants in any year shall be determined by Council through the annual budget process.
7.2 Subject to Council's approved budget, the Treasurer shall calculate the amount payable to each eligible Road Association in accordance with the Township's approved allocation methodology.
7.3 The allocation methodology may take into account one or more of the following:
a. road length;
b. assessed value of the properties served by the road; and
c. any other factor approved by Council.
7.4 The use of an allocation formula is administrative only and does not constitute inspection, verification, certification, or acceptance by the Township of:
a. road length;
b. boundaries;
c. ownership;
d. road condition;
e. road status; or
f. the extent of any municipal interest or responsibility.
8. Conditions Precedent to Payment
8.1 No Grant shall be issued unless the Township has received, in form satisfactory to the Township:
a. a completed application;
b. proof of signing authority;
c. a fully executed Grant Acceptance, Release and Indemnity;
d. any additional information reasonably required by the Clerk or Treasurer for program administration; and
e. where required by the Township, proof of insurance.
8.2 The Township may refuse or delay payment until all required documentation has been received and accepted.
9. Use of Grant Funds
9.1 Grant funds must be used only for Work relating to the private road or unassumed road identified by the Road Association in its application.
9.2 The Road Association is solely responsible for determining whether, when, and how any Work is performed.
9.3 The Road Association is solely responsible for:
a. retaining and supervising contractors;
b. obtaining all permits, licences, approvals, consents, and permissions required by law;
c. complying with all applicable statutes, regulations, by-laws, and common law obligations;
d. ensuring safe conditions for workers, users, and the public;
e. traffic control, signage, barriers, and warnings;
f. drainage, culverts, runoff, erosion, and access impacts;
g. winter maintenance, if any;
h. the quality, adequacy, legality, and sufficiency of any Work; and
i. all debts, losses, claims, damages, injuries, and disputes arising from or related to the road or the Work.
9.4 The Township does not guarantee that any Grant amount will be sufficient for any Work.
10. No Township Direction, Supervision, or Operational Control
10.1 The Township does not, by establishing or administering this program, undertake to design, direct, supervise, inspect, approve, certify, monitor, manage, or control any Work funded in whole or in part by a Grant.
10.2 No act, omission, communication, attendance, or administrative decision of the Township or its staff in connection with this program shall be construed as:
a. technical advice or engineering direction;
b. approval of design, methods, materials, contractors, or workmanship;
c. confirmation that any Work is safe, lawful, adequate, or appropriate;
d. an undertaking by the Township to make any road safe for travel; or
e. assumption by the Township of operational control over any road or Work.
10.3 The Township does not, by issuing a Grant, assume possession, care, custody, management, occupation, or control of any road or work area.
11. Separate Municipal Permissions Required
11.1 A Grant under this policy does not authorize entry onto, occupation of, alteration of, or construction upon:
a. municipal land;
b. a municipal road allowance;
c. a ditch, culvert, bridge, drainage works, or other municipal infrastructure; or
d. any location for which municipal consent, permit, or approval is otherwise required.
11.2 Where proposed Work may affect municipal land, a municipal road allowance, drainage patterns, a ditch, a culvert, a bridge, utilities, or any other municipal infrastructure, the Road Association must obtain all separate written permissions required by the Township before commencing the Work.
11.3 The granting or refusal of any such separate permission is independent of this policy and of any Grant application.
12. No Representation, Warranty, or Reliance
12.1 The Township makes no representation, warranty, or assurance, express or implied, regarding:
a. the legal status of any road;
b. the safety, condition, or passability of any road;
c. the suitability, legality, or adequacy of any proposed or completed Work;
d. the availability of municipal services in respect of any road; or
e. eligibility for any future Grant.
12.2 No person shall rely on the existence of this policy, the calculation of a Grant, or the payment of a Grant as evidence that the Township:
a. has accepted responsibility for any road;
b. has determined that any road is safe or passable;
c. has accepted or approved any Work; or
d. has waived any statutory or common law right, defence, immunity, limitation period, or notice requirement.
13. Indemnity and Insurance
13.1 As a condition of funding, each Road Association shall indemnify and save harmless the Township, its Council members, officers, employees, and agents from and against all claims, demands, actions, causes of action, losses, costs, damages, expenses, fines, penalties, and liabilities arising directly or indirectly from:
a. the application for, acceptance of, or use of any Grant;
b. the condition, use, non-use, maintenance, repair, or improvement of the road;
c. any Work funded in whole or in part by a Grant;
d. any interference with drainage, runoff, flooding, erosion, utilities, access, neighbouring lands, or travel; and
e. any act, omission, negligence, or wilful misconduct of the Road Association or any of its members, officers, employees, volunteers, contractors, agents, invitees, or road users.
13.2 The indemnity in this policy and in Schedule "A" survives payment of the Grant and termination of the program.
13.3 The Township may require proof of insurance satisfactory to the Township, including commercial general liability coverage in a minimum amount of $2 000 000.00 and contractor liability coverage where applicable.
13.4 The requirement or non-requirement of insurance does not constitute approval by the Township of the sufficiency of any coverage and does not limit the Road Association's obligations under this policy.
14. Reporting and Records
14.1 The Township may require a Road Association to provide receipts, invoices, statutory declarations, or other documentation confirming the general purpose for which Grant funds were expended .
14.2 Any reporting requirement under this section is administrative only and does not constitute inspection, supervision, approval, acceptance, or certification of any Work by the Township.
14.3 The Township shall maintain records of applications, calculations, payments, and executed grant documents in accordance with its record retention practices and applicable law.
15.Repayment, Withholding, Suspension, and Termination
15.1 The Township may withhold, reduce, suspend, cancel, or recover all or part of a Grant where:
a.the Road Association provided false, misleading, or incomplete information;
b. the Road Association failed to comply with this policy or with Schedule "A";
c.Grant funds were used for a purpose inconsistent with this policy;
d.required documentation was not provided; or
e. Council determines, in its sole discretion, that continued funding is not appropriate.
15.2 Any amount required to be repaid under this policy is a debt owing to the Township.
15.3 Council may suspend or terminate this program at any time by resolution or by-law.
16.Administration
16.1 Council shall approve the annual budget allocation for the program, if any.
16.2 The Treasurer shall administer the allocation formula and determine the amount payable to each eligible Road Association in accordance with Council's approved budget and this policy.
16.3 The Clerk and Treasurer may establish administrative forms and procedures for the implementation of this policy.
16.4 Administrative action taken under this policy does not constitute a representation by the Township concerning the legal status, ownership, condition, safety, extent, or maintainability of any road.
17.Interpretation and Severability
17.1 This policy shall be interpreted so as to preserve the Township's statutory and common law rights, defences, immunities, protections, limitation periods, and notice requirements.
17.2 Nothing in this policy limits, waives, or prejudices any statutory or common law right, defence, immunity, notice requirement, or limitation period available to the Township.
17.3 If any provision of this policy is held to be invalid or unenforceable, that provision shall be severed and the remainder of the policy shall continue in force.
17.4 This policy shall be governed by the laws of the Province of Ontario.
18.Review
18.1 Council shall review this policy at least once every five years, or earlier if Council considers revision necessary.
19.Effective Date
19.1 This policy comes into force on the date adopted by Council.
Schedule "A"
Township of Laird
Road Association Grant Program
Grant Acceptance, Release and Indemnity
The undersigned, on behalf of the _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Road Association, acknowledge receipt of the sum of $ from the Township of Laird as a discretionary grant made pursuant to section 107 of the Municipal Act, 2001.
In consideration of the Township issuing the Grant, the undersigned, on behalf of the Road Association, acknowledge and agree as follows:
1.Discretionary Grant Only
The Grant is discretionary financial assistance only. It is not consideration for services to the Township and does not create any right or entitlement to present or future funding.
2.No Determination of Road Status
The Grant does not constitute a determination by the Township of the legal status of the road, including whether the road is private, unassumed, public, maintained at public expense, or under municipal jurisdiction.
3.No Assumption/ No Maintenance at Public Expense
Receipt or use of the Grant does not, by itself:
a.cause the road to be considered assumed by the Township;
b.cause the road to be considered maintained by the Township or maintained at public expense;
c.create any duty on the part of the Township to inspect, maintain, repair, improve, winter maintain, patrol, sign, or make the road safe for travel; or
d. create any undertaking, representation, warranty, or standard of care by the Township in relation to the road or any Work.
4.No Change in Legal Status
Receipt or use of the Grant does not alter the legal status, ownership, jurisdiction, or character of the road. Where the road is an unassumed municipal road allowance or other road in which the Township may have a legal interest, the Grant does not constitute assumption for maintenance.
5.Sole Responsibility of Road Association
The Road Association is solely responsible for the road and for all Work funded in whole or in part by the Grant, including all planning, design, execution, supervision, inspection, contractor selection, materials, permits, approvals, legal compliance, drainage, access impacts, signage, winter maintenance, safety precautions, and outcomes.
6. No Township Direction or Approval
The Township does not direct, supervise, inspect, approve, certify, or monitor the road or any Work funded by the Grant, and no communication or act of the Township shall be interpreted as doing so.
7. No Occupation or Control by Township
The Township does not, by issuing the Grant, assume possession, care, custody, management, occupation, or control of the road or any work area, and does not become an occupier of the road or premises by reason only of the Grant.
8. Separate Permissions Required
If any Work may affect municipal land, a municipal road allowance, drainage, a ditch, a culvert, a bridge, utilities, or other municipal infrastructure, the Grant itself does not constitute permission to enter upon, occupy, alter, or perform Work on such lands or infrastructure. Any required municipal consent, permit, or approval must be obtained separately.
9. No Representation or Reliance
The Township makes no representation or warranty regarding the condition, safety, passability, legality, or status of the road or the adequacy or legality of any Work. The Road Association has not relied upon the Grant as evidence of municipal responsibility for the road.
10. Indemnity and Release
The Road Association, save and except any contributory negligence by the Township of Laird, its Council members, officers, employees and agents, shall indemnify and save harmless the Township of Laird, its Council members, officers, employees, and agents from and against all claims, demands, actions, causes of action, losses, damages, costs, and expenses arising directly or indirectly from or in connection with:
a. the application for, receipt of, or use of the Grant;
b. the condition, use, non-use, maintenance, repair, or improvement of the road;
c. any Work funded in whole or in part by the Grant;
d. any drainage, runoff, flooding, erosion, access, utilities, or neighbouring land impact;
and
e. any act, omission, negligence, or default of the Road Association or any of its members, officers, employees, volunteers, contractors, agents, invitees, or road users.
The Road Association hereby release and forever discharges the Township of Laird, its Council members, officers, employees, and agents from any and all claims, demands, actions, or causes of action arising from or related to the Grant, the road, or any Work funded by the Grant.
11. Accuracy and Authority
The undersigned certify that:
a. they have authority to bind the Road Association;
b. the information provided to the Township in connection with the Grant is true and complete; and
c. where the Road Association is unincorporated, the execution of this document has been duly authorized by its members.
12. Reservation of Municipal Rights
Nothing in this document limits or waives any statutory or common law right, defence, immunity, notice requirement, or limitation period available to the Township.
Dated at the Township of Laird this day of _ _ _ _ _ _ _, 20.
| Road Association: _ _ _ | _ | _ _ _ | _ | _ _ _ | _ | _ _ _ | _ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Authorized Signatory: _ _ | _ | _ _ _ | _ _ | _ _ | _ _ | _ _ | |
| Print Name: _ _ _ _ _ _ | _ | _ _ | _ _ | _ _ | _ _ | _ _ | |
| Title: _ | |||||||
| Signature: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ | _ | _ _ _ | _ _ | _ _ | _ _ | _ | |
| Authorized Signatory: _ _ | _ | _ _ _ | _ _ | _ _ | _ _ | _ _ | |
| Print Name:_ _ _ _ _ _ | _ | _ _ | _ _ | _ _ | _ _ | _ _ | |
| Title: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ | _ | _ _ | _ _ | _ _ _ | _ | _ | |
Signature: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, RE: Ontario Regulation 584/06 and
PDF page 65.
Ministry of Ministère des
Municipal Affairs Affaires municipales
and Housing et du Logement
Office of the Minister Bureau du ministre
777 Bay Street, 17 th Floor 777, rue Bay, 17 e étage
Toronto ON M7A 2J3 Toronto (Ontario) M7A 2J3
Tel.: 416 585-7000 Tél.: 416 585-7000
234-2026-1390
April 2 2 , 2026
Dear Head of Council:
I am writing to update you on amendments to Ontario Regulation 584/06 under the Municipal Act, 2001 (MA) and O. Reg 595/06 of the City of Toronto Act, 2006 (COTA) that were filed on April 17, 2026. These changes come into force on July 16, 2026.
As you know, since spring 2024 the province has encouraged municipalities designing stormwater fees and charges to ensure that there are no unintended consequences that would disproportionately impact farmers and greenhouse operators.
In the province’s 2025 Fall Economic Statement, our government stressed the importance of the agri-food sector and that protecting Ontario’s local agriculture and food industry is essential to ensuring a strong, self-sufficient food supply chain.
Agricultural properties generally have invested in their own stormwater-mitigating measures and have large areas of green space that contribute significantly to stormwater runoff management.
In this respect, the province is making changes to remove the authority for municipalities to impose stormwater fees and charges on portions of properties that are classified in the farm or managed forests property class, if they are not connected to a municipal storm sewer.
As we continue to work together to build up our communities, I look forward to our continued collaboration in investing in key infrastructure projects while making life more affordable for members of the agri-food sector and supporting the viability of their operations. Please accept my best wishes.
Sincerely,
Hon. Robert J. Flack
Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing
c. Municipal Chief Administrative Officer and/or Treasurer
Hon. Trevor Jones, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness Robert Dodd, Chief of Staff to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Ryan Puviraj, Chief of Staff to the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness Martha Greenberg, Deputy Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Laurie Miller, Assistant Deputy Minister, Local Government Division, Municipal Affairs and Housing
Trefry Centre, RE: Funding Request, April 17, 2026
PDF pages 66 to 67.
April 17, 2026
The Township of Laird
Dear Mayor and Council,
As you are aware, the Dr. H.S. Trefry Memorial Centre provides numerous essential programs and services to seniors and individuals living with disabilities in your community. These community support services are partially funded by the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care; however, this funding is not always consistent and often falls short of covering the full cost of operations. This limits our ability to maintain current service levels, let alone expand to meet growing needs. For this reason, the generous contributions of our municipal partners have been, and continue to be, vital to our success.
As you begin your budget deliberations for the year, we respectfully ask that you consider supporting the Trefry Centre in your financial planning. Enclosed, you will find our current operating budget, along with suggested contribution amounts based on senior population data (Statistics Canada) for each municipality within our catchment area. Please note that we also serve individuals with long-term or short-term disabilities who receive support through the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP); these individuals are not reflected in the senior population statistics used for contribution estimates.
I would welcome the opportunity to speak with you directly about the services provided in your community and to answer any questions you may have. Please feel free to contact the Centre to arrange a meeting with your Council or designated representative.
Thank you for your time, consideration, and ongoing commitment to supporting inclusive, accessible services for residents in need. Your support makes a meaningful difference.
Warm Regards,
Dr. H.S. Trefry Memorial Centre
2025/26 Budget
Ontario Health Reporting Year from April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2026
Revenues
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 | Column 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario Health Program Funding | 3 59,346 | ||
| Other Funding (OCSA, New Horizons, NOHFC, ADSAB) | 1 3,850 | ||
| Other Funding - Municipal Contributions | 2 5,000 | ||
| Client Service Recipient Payments (Meals on Wheels, Diners, | Transportation, Day Out) | 8 5,500 | |
| Other Revenues - Donations, Hall Rental | 1 6,675 | ||
| Total Revenues | 500,371 | ||
| Expenditures | |||
| Salaries & Benefits | 3 42,355 | ||
| Program Expenditures | |||
| Administration Expenses | 3 5,677 | ||
| Building Maintenance and Utilities | 2 6,828 | ||
| Home Maintenance Program Costs | 3 ,160 | ||
| Meals on Wheels Program Costs | 3 7,105 | ||
| Congregate Dining/Exercise Program Costs | 1 3,742 | ||
| Transportation Program Costs | 3 2,479 | ||
| Day Out Program Costs | 9 ,025 | ||
| Total Programs Materials & Supplies Expenditures | 1 58,016 | ||
| Total Expenditures | 5 00,371 | ||
| Surplus (deficit) | - | ||
| 2021 Census Percentage | Ratio of | Funding | |
| Municipalities | Seniors (>=65) | Total Seniors | Consideration |
| Population | Population | Amount | |
| The Village of Hilton Beach | 65 | 3.2% | 775 |
| The Township of Jocelyn | 130 | 6.3% | 1,550 |
| The Township of Hilton | 135 | 6.6% | 1,609 |
| The Township of Johnson | 140 | 6.8% | 1,669 |
| The Township of Tarbutt | 145 | 7.1% | 1,729 |
| The Township of Laird | 255 | 12.4% | 3,040 |
| The Township of MacDonald, Meredith and Aberdeen Additional | 295 | 14.4% | 3,517 |
| The Township of St. Joseph | 485 | 23.6% | 5,782 |
| The Township of Plummer Additional | 195 | 9.5% | 2,325 |
| The Town of Bruce Mines | 210 | 10.2% | 2,504 |
| The Town of Thessalon *transportation only* | 500 | ||
| Total: | 2,055 | 100.0% | 25,000 |
| - based on each municipality's seniors population as a % of the total seniors population |
Ministry of Northern Economic Development and Growth, RE: Tourism Campaign – Northern Ontario, April 9, 2026
PDF page 68.
Ministry of Northern Economic Ministère du Développement et
Development and Growth de la croissance économique
du Nord
Office of the Minister Bureau du ministre
16 th Floor, Suite 1600 16 e étage, bureau 1600
438 University Avenue 438, avenue University
Toronto ON M5G 2K8 Toronto ON M5G 2K8
774-2026-156
May 8, 2026
To Northern Ontario Mayors:
As we approach the summer season, I am pleased to tell you that on Monday, May 11, we will officially launch the 2026 Northern Ontario tourism social media campaign.
Through this campaign, we aim to raise awareness for Ontarians and travellers from beyond our borders to explore all that Northern Ontario has to offer.
I appreciate the photos and destination suggestions that have been shared to date. These contributions play an important role in showcasing the beautiful landscapes, vibrant communities, and unique experiences that make Northern Ontario such a remarkable destination.
These features will be highlighted across my social media channels, including Facebook (@George Pirie), Instagram (@georgepiriempp), X (@GeorgiePirieMPP), and LinkedIn (@George Pirie) and ministry social media channels including LinkedIn (@NorthON), Facebook (ONnorth) and X (@NorthON). I encourage you to share posts that are in your region as tourists often visit multiple municipalities.
For those municipalities and organizations that have not yet shared their key tourist attractions, we are still accepting submissions. This is an excellent opportunity to help highlight the beauty of your community and region to help attract more visitors. If you are interested or have any questions, please contact Bronwyn Gould at bronwyn.gould@ontario.ca.
Thank you once again for your continued support and for helping to promote Northern Ontario as a premier tourism destination.
Sincerely,
The Honourable George Pirie
Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth
c: The Honourable Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming
Plummer Additional, RE: Request for Support for Meeting with MP Bill Rosenberg Regarding Highway 17 Closure and Municipal Road Impacts.
PDF page 69.
PDF page 69 is a scanned image (for example a signed document, map, photo or a document from another organization) and is not available as text here. Open PDF page 69, or contact the Township office for an accessible format.
Central Algoma Land Trust, RE: Sponsorship for the Central Algoma Land Trust 2026, April 13, 2026
PDF pages 70 to 71.
PDF page 70 is a scanned image (for example a signed document, map, photo or a document from another organization) and is not available as text here. Open PDF page 70, or contact the Township office for an accessible format.
PDF page 71 is a scanned image (for example a signed document, map, photo or a document from another organization) and is not available as text here. Open PDF page 71, or contact the Township office for an accessible format.
2085-26 Final Tax Rates By-law
PDF pages 72 to 73.
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF LAIRD
By-Law No. 2085-26
BEING A BY-LAW to set and levy final tax rates and to further provide for penalty and interest in default of payment thereof for 2026.
WHEREAS Section 312 of the Municipal Act, 2001 , as amended, provides that the Council of a local municipality shall pass a by-law to levy a separate tax rate on the assessment in each property class, and;
WHEREAS Section 307 and 308 of the said Act require tax rates to be established in the same proportion to tax ratios, and;
WHEREAS the sum required for general municipal expenses purposes is estimated at $2,083,088 and;
WHEREAS certain education rates are provided in various regulations, and commercial and industrial education amounts have been requisitioned by the Province,
NOW THEREFORE the Council of the Corporation of the Township of Laird enacts as follows:
| MUNICIPAL | EDUCATION | TOTAL |
|---|---|---|
| CLASS RATE | RATE | TAX RATE |
| Res/Farm 0.01437074 | 0.00153000 | 0.01590074 |
| Commercial Occupied 0.01520281 | 0.00880000 | 0.02400281 |
| Commercial Vacant 0.01064196 | 0.00880000 | 0.01944196 |
| Industrial Occupied 0.01404165 | 0.00880000 | 0.02248165 |
| Industrial Vacant 0.00912707 | 0.00880000 | 0.01792707 |
| Farmlands 0.00359269 | 0.00038250 | 0.00397519 |
| Managed Forests 0.00359269 | 0.00038250 | 0.00397519 |
| Aggregate Extraction 0.01142579 | 0.00511000 | 0.01653579 |
| BT Shortline Railway Right-of-Way | 0.11815000 |
THAT all taxes shall become due and payable in 2 installments as follows: 50% of the final levy shall become due and payable on July 17, 2026 50% of the final levy shall become due and payable on September 18, 2026.
On all taxes of the levy, which are in default a penalty of 1.25 per cent shall be added and thereafter a penalty of 1.25 per cent per month will be added on the first day of each and every month the default continues, until December 31, 2026.
On all taxes in default on January 1 st , 2027, interest shall be added at the rate of 1.25 per cent per month for each month or fraction thereof in which the default continues.
Penalties and interest added in default shall become due and payable and shall be collected as if the same had originally been imposed and formed part of such unpaid tax levy.
- 2 -
THAT taxes are payable to the Township of Laird, at the Municipal Office, 3 Pumpkin Point Road West, R. R. #4, Echo Bay, ON P0S 1C0. This by-law comes into effect upon the date of passage.
PASSED in open meeting this 21 st day of May 2026.
Mayor (blank)
Shawn Evoy
Seal
Clerk (blank)
Jennifer Errington
2086-26 Conformity By-law
PDF page 74.
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF LAIRD
By-law Number 2086-26
BEING A BY-LAW to confirm proceedings of the meeting of Council, May 21,
2026.
WHEREAS Section 5(3) of the Municipal Act, R.S.O. 2001, as amended, requires a municipal council to exercise its power by by-law except where otherwise provided;
AND WHEREAS in many cases, action which is taken or authorized to be taken by a Council or a Committee of Council does not lend itself to an individual by-law;
THE COUNCIL OF THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF LAIRD
HEREBY ENACTS AS FOLLOWS:
1. THAT the action of the Council at its meeting on May 21, 2026, in respect to each motion, resolution and other action passed and taken by the Council at its said meeting, is, except where prior approval of the Ontario Municipal Board is required, hereby adopted, ratified and confirmed.
2. THAT the Mayor and the proper officers of the Township are hereby authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to the said action or to obtain approvals where required, and to execute all documents as may be necessary and directed to affix the Corporate Seal to all such documents as required.
READ and passed in Open Council this 21 st day of May 2026.
Mayor (blank)
Shawn Evoy
Seal
Clerk (blank)
Jennifer Errington