Council Meeting Highlights – April 28, 2025

Here are some highlights from the April 28, 2025, Council meeting. For more information on these and on the other topics discussed at this or other meetings, the meeting schedule, agendas and minutes are available on our website.

The video of the full meeting can be viewed here.

Presentation on Property Assessment in Ontario (MPAC) (Item 8a)

Joyce Gravelle from MPAC made a presentation for information purposes. More information about MPAC can be found on our website. You can view the presentation slides in the agenda and listen to the presentation in the Council meeting at the 5-minute mark.

Community Safety Zones (Item 11h)

Council approved the proposed By-law to adopt a policy establishing guidelines for the creation of community safety zones to address ongoing speeding issues.

Speed Limit Transition Zones (Item 11i)

The Township will be implementing speed transition zones at various locations in Russell and Embrun. At each location where the speed limit currently changes from 80 km/h to 50 km/h, the transition will now occur in two stages: from 80 km/h to 60 km/h, and then from 60 km/h to 50 km/h.

Death Registration Service (Item 11k)

Council approved the launch of a new local death registration and burial permit service. This initiative will make the process faster and more convenient for residents and funeral homes. A by-law was adopted to set licensing fees at $35 for local funeral homes and $40 for others. The service is expected to generate $6,125 to $8,000 in annual revenue. It reflects the Township’s commitment to enhancing service delivery and community access. Details will be shared through the Township’s website and social media.

Local Policy on Tariffs (Item 11l)

Council approved a new "Buy Canadian" strategy for municipal procurement practices in response to ongoing U.S.-Canada tariffs. The Township will prioritize Canadian suppliers where feasible, especially for contracts under trade agreement thresholds, to support local businesses while maintaining best value for taxpayers. This moderate approach ensures legal compliance while promoting Canadian economic resilience. Updates to procurement policies reflecting this direction will be brought forward later this spring.

Announcements (Item 20)

Public Information Session – Notre-Dame Street Rehabilitation Project in Embrun - May 1, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., at Town hall.
The Kin Club of Russell is organizing a Community Clean-Up across our Township on Saturday, May 3^,2025. Meet up at the Sports Dome at 10 a.m. to collect garbage bags and gloves. We invite high school students to participate, as this will count towards their volunteer hours.

Other Reminders

Economic and Community Development Strategic Plan Survey – Deadline to fill out is April 30, 2025. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/RussellTownship
Public Engagement Quick Poll. Fill out a quick poll before May 2, 2025, to help shape our public engagement policy. https://forms.office.com/r/Y0mQhS1XCK

The next Council meeting will be on Monday, May 12, 2025, at 6:00p.m.

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