Council Meeting Highlights – February 23, 2026

Here are some highlights from the February 23, 2026, 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.

Health Care Update (Item 11d)

Administration presented an update on the state of primary care in the Township. The report outlined the work completed over the past few months, including meetings with local physicians, an analysis of clinical space needs, ongoing collaboration with the Health Care Task Force, and a review of provincial structures that influence local access to care.

Council engaged in a productive and thoughtful discussion. Several important concerns were raised, particularly regarding the rising demand for primary care, pressures on existing clinics, and the need for coordinated regional and provincial partnerships. Administration values this feedback and will use it to guide the next phase of work.

In the months ahead, Administration will continue working with the Health Care Task Force, gather additional system-wide information, analyze potential models for municipal support, and advance discussions with key health‑care partners. This continued research will allow the Township to refine options, evaluate feasible pathways, and better understand what supports may help stabilize and expand primary care capacity in our growing community.

A comprehensive follow-up update with recommended next steps will be presented to Council in June 2026.

2025 Corporate Goals Update and 2026 Business Plan (Item 11j)

Council received a summary of progress achieved in 2025 on corporate goals, capital projects, and Council-directed initiatives. The report highlighted the significant work completed by Administration and staff across the organization while continuing to deliver day-to-day municipal services.

Council also reviewed the proposed 2026 Business Plan, which outlines the Township’s key priorities and initiatives for the coming year. The plan is designed to balance continued service delivery with forward-looking planning to support the community’s long-term growth and resilience.

You can view both documents on our website.  

Changes to Council’s Procedural By-law (Item 11g)

A new Procedural By-law was adopted to govern the rules of procedures of the Council of the Corporation of the Township of Russell.

The next Council meeting will be Monday, March 9, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.