Council Meeting Highlights – February 26, 2024

During the Council meeting, the Council deferred a decision on Question Period on Meeting of the Day while the administration works on developing a Public Engagement Policy. Over the past months, the administration has diligently participated in training sessions and presentations aimed at enhancing their understanding and implementation of this policy. These efforts underscore our commitment to fostering transparent and inclusive communication channels with our constituents. The Township places a high priority on effective communication and public engagement, as evidenced by our recent focus on the Public Engagement Policy.

The administration will meet in the upcoming weeks to discuss their vision, ideas, and priorities regarding the Public Engagement Policy. Before finalizing the Policy, it will be presented to the Council to solicit their input on this matter. Additionally, we would like to invite all citizens who have ideas or suggestions regarding this policy to communicate with your Councillors in the next two weeks, as Councillors will be able to share their vision and ideas on this subject during the strategic discussion period at a future Council meeting. It is the perfect time for you to make your voice heard, as Councillors are eager to have the opportunity to engage in dialogue with you. We are dedicated to upholding the principles of open dialogue and active engagement with the community we serve.

You can find contact information for members of Council at: www.russell.ca/council 

For more information on this, view the full press release.

A list of Committees and Boards of the Township of Russell was shared with present vacancies and how to apply to sit on a committee.

Available positions:

• Property Standards Committee (2 positions)
• Line Fence Viewers (2 positions)
• Community, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee (2 positions)
• Teens Advisory Committee (3 positions – At-large teen representatives)
• Seniors Advisory Committee (1 position)

How To Apply:
The Application Form can be found on our website at www.Russell.ca/committees or can be provided by the Clerk’s office by email.

Those interested in the above-mentioned positions are invited to complete, sign and submit the Committee Appointment Application Form to the Clerk’s office by email at clerk.greffe@russell.ca or in-person at Town Hall (717 Notre-Dame Street, Embrun, ON K0A 1W1).

The Township of Russell voted in favour of submitting an application form for the Regional Community Investment Fund of the United Counties of Prescott and Russell (UCPR) for funding of $30,000 for a proposed eligible project for the remaining 9 months of 2024 and in 2025 and 2026 should this funding program still be in place, then to continue the program with a $40,000 contribution in each of those years.

Should the funding be approved by UCPR, it would be applied to eliminate the paid membership to the Russell Township Sports Dome walking/running track. This would make the walking/running track accessible to all to foster active lifestyles, promote inclusivity, and enhance community well-being.

More information to come when a decision has been made at UCPR.