Council Meeting Highlights – October 27, 2025

Here are some highlights from the October 27, 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.

Community and Economic Development Strategic Plan (Item 11a)

Council received and adopted the Community and Economic Development Strategic Plan prepared by McSweeney & Associates. The plan provides a five-year roadmap to guide the Township’s economic growth and community initiatives, ensuring Russell Township continues to develop as a vibrant, healthy, and welcoming community.

The Economic Development Strategic Plan focuses on attracting and retaining investment, supporting local businesses and agriculture, and strengthening communication between the Township and investors.

The Community Development Strategic Plan aims to enhance residents’ quality of life through stronger community engagement, improved volunteer support, affordable housing initiatives, physician recruitment, and tourism development.

Together, these plans mark another important milestone for the Township of Russell — demonstrating a proactive and forward-thinking approach to growth, collaboration, and innovation, and reaffirming our position as a regional leader in community and economic development.

Tree Policy (Item 11c)

Council adopted a Tree Removal and Replacement Policy, to ensure responsible management of trees on Township properties by promoting environmental sustainability, and biodiversity. This policy establishes a clear replacement ratio for any tree removal activities.

This policy applies to all Township-owned or managed properties, including parks, facilities, road allowances, and leased spaces where landscaping is under Township responsibility. Any tree removed from Township property must be replaced at a ratio of 1:3 — for every one tree cut, three new trees must be planted.

Temporary Sidewalk Closure (Item 11d)

Council approved the proposed By-law to close sidewalks temporarily during the winter months as these do not link to existing sidewalks. More specifically at the following locations:

• Valoris Street from the Nature Trail to 118 meters south.
• Pedestrian crossings at the following roundabouts:
  • St-Pierre Road and St-Guillaume Road,
  • Limoges Road and Route 300,
  • St-Guillaume Road and Notre-Dame Street, and
  • County Road 3 (Notre-Dame Street) and County Road 5 (Limoges Road).

Notice of proposed amendments to Council’s Procedural By-law # 2021-127 (Item 11g)

Council received a Notice regarding proposed amendments to Council’s Procedural By-law # 2021-127. The amendments will be considered by Council at its next Regular Council Meeting on November 10, 2025.

The next Council meeting will be Monday, November 10, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.