Council Meeting Highlights – May 26, 2025

Here are some highlights from the May 26, 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. Please note that there were technical difficulties, and the sound starts at the 20-minute mark in the video.

2024 Financial Statement Presentation (Item 11a)

Council officially approved the audited financial statements for the 2024 fiscal year. These statements reflect the Township’s continued commitment to strong financial management, transparency, and accountability.

As directed by Council in report CSAS-FS-2024-25 (dated December 9, 2024), the 2024 budget surplus of $144,382.34 was allocated as follows:

$52,031.30 to cover the cost of the 2024 by-election
$77,333.21 to replenish the Township’s insurance reserve
$15,017.83 to reduce long-term debt related to the Snow Dump Facility

Residents are encouraged to review the 2024 Financial Statements, or to contact the Finance Department at finances@russell.ca for a copy or for more information.

Council extends its appreciation to the Finance team for their excellent work and invites residents to learn more about the Township’s financial position.

Planning Items

Several zoning amendments and an Official Plan amendment were approved, allowing densification projects to move forward. These projects will optimize the use of existing infrastructure and create more residential units. Three of these projects will go through a site plan process, during which the projects will be reviewed to ensure they’re being developed responsibly.

Fire Service Organizational Review Report (Item 11b)

Council received a Fire Department Organizational Review from The Loomex Group. Russell Township Fire Services will return to Council in the fall 2025 with their recommendations and an action plan, including financial impacts.

Township of Russell Official Plan Update (Item 11k)

The Township of Russell’s new Official Plan was adopted by Council. The final version of the new Official Plan along with its schedules will now be sent to the United Counties of Prescott and Russell for review and consideration, as they hold the authority to approve local official plans, in place of the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

Transportation Masterplan (Item 11o)

As another step toward completing the Transportation Masterplan, Council received the final document. This comprehensive plan will guide future infrastructure development and improvements. It will be available for a 30-day public review period starting June 2, 2025, during which residents can provide feedback. Details on how to access the plan will be shared shortly.

Housing-enabling Core Services (HECS) (Item 11p)

The Township received $6.3 million from the province to help finance intersection improvements on Route 300. Council authorised the signing of an agreement with the Ministry of Infrastructure to formalize the partnership.

The next Council meeting will be Monday, June 9, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.

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