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03 - February 10, 2026 County Council Agenda PackageElgmCounty Elgin County Council Regular Council Meeting Orders of the Day Tuesday, February 10, 2026, 9:00 a.m. Council Chambers 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas ON Note for Members of the Public: Please click the link below to watch the meeting livestream: https://video.isilive.ca/elgincounty/live.html Accessible formats available upon request. Pages 1. Meeting Call to Order 2. Approval of Agenda 3. Introductions, Recognitions, Memorials 4. Adoption of Minutes 3 5. Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof 6. Presenting Petitions, Presentations and Delegations 7. Motion to Adopt Recommendations from the Committee of the Whole 7.1 Warden Giguere - ADM 26-05 - Recommendations from Committee of 7 the Whole — January 27, 2026 8. Committee Recommendations 9. Reports for Information and Immediate Consideration 9.1 Director of Financial Services/Treasurer - FIN 26-01 2025 Council and 9 Outside Boards Remuneration and Expenses 9.2 Manager of Economic Development, Tourism & Strategic Initiatives - 15 EDT 26-01 Rural Ontario Development Program Application: Transit Feasibility Study 10. Council Correspondence 10.1 Western Ontario Wardens' Caucus (WOWC) Monthly Newsletter 18 January 2026 11. Statements/Inquiries by Members 12. Closed Meeting Items 13. Motion to Rise and Report 14. Consideration of By -Laws 14.1 By -Law No. 26-09 Land Division Secretary -Treasurer and Alternates 25 14.2 By -Law No. 26-10 Confirmation 15. Adjournment PV Page 2 of 26 Elgin County Council Regular Council Meeting Minutes January 27, 2026, 9:00 a.m. Council Chambers 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas ON Members Present: Warden Dominique Giguere (virtual) Deputy Warden Grant Jones (virtual) Councillor Ed Ketchabaw (virtual) Councillor Mark Widner (virtual) Councillor Andrew Sloan (virtual) Councillor Todd Noble (virtual) Councillor Mike Hentz (virtual) Councillor Richard Leatham (virtual) Members Absent: Councillor Jack Couckuyt (with notice) Staff Present: Blaine Parkin, Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk Nicholas Loeb, Director of Legal Services Brian Masschaele, Director of Community & Cultural Services (virtual) Jennifer Ford, Director of Financial Services/Treasurer Peter Dutchak, Director of Engineering Services Mat Vaughan, Director of Planning and Development Holly Hurley, Director of People & Culture (virtual) Joe Anne Holloway, Director of Homes and Seniors Services Carolyn Krahn, Manager of Economic Development, Tourism & Strategic Initiatives Katherine Thompson, Manager of Administrative Services/Deputy Clerk Jeff Brooks, Manager of Emergency Management Jenna Fentie, Legislative Services Coordinator Stefanie Heide, Legislative Services Coordinator Meeting Call to Order The meeting was called to order at 9:00 a.m. with Warden Giguere in the chair. 2. Approval of Agenda Moved by: Councillor Noble Seconded by: Deputy Warden Jones RESOLVED THAT the agenda for the January 27, 2026 County Council Meeting be approved as presented. Motion Carried. 3. Introductions, Recognitions, Memorials 3.1 Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk - Introduction of the new Director of Homes and Seniors Services Page 3 of 26 The Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk introduced Joe Anne Holloway, the County's new Director of Homes and Seniors Services. 4. Adoption of Minutes Moved by: Councillor Widner Seconded by: Councillor Hentz RESOLVED THAT the minutes of the meeting held on January 13, 2026 be adopted. Motion Carried. 5. Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof None. 6. Presenting Petitions, Presentations and Delegations None. 7. Motion to Adopt Recommendations from the Committee of the Whole 7.1 ADM 26-04 - Recommendations from Committee of the Whole — January 13, 2026 Moved by: Councillor Ketchabaw Seconded by: Deputy Warden Jones RESOLVED THAT items CW26-03 - CW26-06 from the Committee of the Whole meeting dated January 13, 2026, and the recommendations therein be adopted. Motion Carried. 8. Committee Recommendations None. 9. Reports for Information and Immediate Consideration None. 10. Council Correspondence Moved by: Councillor Hentz Seconded by: Councillor Noble RESOLVED THAT Correspondence Items 10.1 - 10.6 be received and filed. Motion Carried. 10.1 Email from Karen Vecchio advocating for financial support from the County of Elgin for the Barrie Hospice of Elgin. 10.2 Letter from Christina Mayhew regarding the role of the County of Elgin as the Elgin County Library Board. 10.3 Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) 2025 Municipal Partnerships Report. 10.4 Resolution from the Town of Aylmer regarding Support for the City of Welland's Call to Action for Justice and Protection of Canada's Children. 10.5 Western Ontario Wardens' Caucus (WOWC) Media Release - Western Ontario Wardens' Caucus Announces Warden Marcus Ryan as New Chair. 2 Page 4 of 26 10.6 Western Ontario Wardens' Caucus (WOWC) Media Release -Western Ontario Wardens' Caucus Advances Key Municipal Priorities at ROMA 2026. 11. Statements/Inquiries by Members 11.1 Deputy Warden Jones - Impact Awards 2026 Deputy Warden Jones noted that the finalists have been announced for the 2026 St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce Impact Awards, and that there are many Elgin County businesses that have been nominated. Councillor Sloan confirmed that the Impact Awards will be held on April 17, 2026. 12. Closed Meeting Items None. 13. Motion to Rise and Report None. 14. Consideration of By -Laws 14.1 By -Law No. 26-03 Fees and Charges BEING a By -Law to Provide a Schedule of Services and Activities Subject to Fees and Charges by the County of Elgin and to Repeal By -Law No. 25-20. Moved by: Councillor Hentz Seconded by: Deputy Warden Jones RESOLVED THAT By -Law No. 26-03 be now read a first, second, and third time and finally passed. Motion Carried. 14.2 By -Law No. 26-04 Authorizing Speed Limits BEING a By -Law to Authorize Speed Limits. Moved by: Councillor Noble Seconded by: Deputy Warden Jones RESOLVED THAT By -Law No. 26-04 be now read a first, second and third time and finally passed. Motion Carried. 14.3 By -Law No. 26-05 Budget BEING a By -Law to Provide for the Adoption of the 2026 Budget of the Corporation of the County of Elgin and to Establish the 2026 Tax Ratios and 2026 Tax Rates for the Said Corporation of the County of Elgin and its Constituent Lower Tier Municipalities. Moved by: Councillor Ketchabaw Seconded by: Councillor Widner RESOLVED THAT By -Law No. 26-05 be now read a first, second and third time and finally passed. Motion Carried. 14.4 By -Law No. 26-06 Borrowing BEING a By -Law to Authorize the Warden and Treasurer to Borrow from Time to Time to Meet Current Expenditures During the Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 2026. Page 5 of 26 Moved by: Councillor Hentz Seconded by: Councillor Ketchabaw RESOLVED THAT By -Law No. 26-06 be now read a first, second and third time and finally passed. Motion Carried. 14.5 By -Law No. 26-07 Non -Union Remuneration BEING a By -Law to Establish Remuneration Rates for Employees Covered by the Job Evaluation Scale. Moved by: Deputy Warden Jones Seconded by: Councillor Hentz RESOLVED THAT By -Law No. 26-07 be now read a first, second and third time and finally passed. Motion Carried. 14.6 By -Law No. 26-08 Confirmation BEING a By -Law to Confirm Proceedings of the Municipal Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin at the January 27, 2026 Meeting. Moved by: Councillor Noble Seconded by: Councillor Widner RESOLVED THAT By -Law No. 26-08 be now read a first, second and third time and finally passed. Motion Carried. 15. Adjournment Moved by: Councillor Widner Seconded by: Deputy Warden Jones RESOLVED THAT we do now adjourn at 9:12 a.m. to meet again on February 10, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. Motion Carried. Blaine Parkin, Dominique Giguere, Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk. Warden. 4 Page 6 of 26 ElginCounty Report to County Council From: Dominique Giguere, Warden Date: February 10, 2026 Subject: ADM 26-05 - Recommendations from Committee of the Whole — January 27, 2026 Recommendation(s): THAT items CW26-10-CW26-12 from the Committee of the Whole meeting dated January 27, 2026, and the recommendations therein be adopted. Introduction: Recommendations of the Committee of the Whole are considered formally for adoption at the next regular meeting of County Council. Background and Discussion: At the meeting held on January 27, 2026, Committee of the Whole recommended the following to County Council: CW26-10 THAT proposed updates to the Land Moved: Councillor Hentz Division Secretary -Treasurer Appointment Seconded: Councillor By-law and the Land Division Secretary- Widner Treasurer Alternates Appointment By-law Motion Carried. be approved; and THAT the corresponding by-law be adopted. CW26-11 THAT Elgin County Museum's Gift Shop Moved: Deputy Warden Policy attached as Appendix A to the Jones January 27, 2026, report titled Elgin Seconded: Councillor County Museum Gift Shop Policy Approval, Noble be hereby approved. Motion Carried. Page 7 of 26 CW26-12 THAT staff develop a list of Council and executive leadership team recommended learning session topics for Council's OTIVISIZE1 Mel l Additional Notes: Moved: Councillor Noble Seconded: Deputy Warden Jones Motion Carried. The Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk led a discussion regarding holding learning sessions for Council with the goal of providing training information on various emerging municipal issues. These learning sessions would be held on days when Council and Committee of the Whole agendas are light. Committee of the Whole directed staff to come back with a list of possible topics for consideration. Financial Implications: None. Advancement of the Strategic Plan: The initiatives outlined in this report are integral to the County's day-to-day operations, supporting effective governance and the efficient delivery of services to Council and the public. Together, they enhance organizational efficiency and reflect the County's ongoing commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance. Local Municipal Partner Impact: None. Communication Requirements: None. Conclusion: Recommendations from the Committee of the Whole meeting held on January 27, 2026, are included in this report for Council's consideration. All of which is Respectfully Submitted Dominique Giguere Warden Approved for Submission Blaine Parkin Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk Page 8 of 26 ElginCounty Report to County Council From: Jennifer Ford, Director of Financial Services/Treasurer Date: February 10, 2026 Subject: FIN 26-01 2025 Council and Outside Boards Remuneration and Expenses Recommendation(s): THAT the report titled "FIN 26-01 2025 Council and Outside Boards Remuneration and Expenses" from the Director of Financial Services/Treasurer dated February 10, 2026 be received and filed. Introduction: This report is brought forward to ensure compliance with Section 284 of the Municipal Act. Background and Discussion: As per Section 284 (1), the Treasurer of a Municipality shall each year provide to the Council of the Municipality and an itemized statement on remuneration and expenses paid in the previous year to each member of Council. As per Section 284 (2), please reference By -Law numbers 05-12, 05-13 and 05-45 that provides authorization for Council remuneration and expenses. Financial Implications: Warden and Council remuneration and expenses totaled $ 322,893.95 for the 2025 calendar year and convention expenses were $ 39,437.50. Remuneration and expenses paid to persons on Outside Boards totaled $ 20,640.54 for that same period. Further details are outlined in the attached schedules: A Treasurer's Statement of Remuneration and Expenses for County Council, B Treasurer's Statement of Remuneration and Expenses for Outside Boards, C Treasurer's Statement on Convention Expenses, and; D 2025 Convention Expenses. Page 9 of 26 Advancement of the Strategic Plan: This initiative fulfills a legislative requirement and demonstrates the County's commitment to accountability and good governance by ensuring compliance with applicable legislation and provincial standards. Local Municipal Partner Impact: This report outlines expenses incurred at the County level only by the individuals noted in Schedules A through D. Communication Requirements: Required by Legislation to be presented to Council each year. Conclusion: For 2025, the total remuneration and expenses, including conventions, for both Elgin County Council and Outside Boards was $ 382,971.99. All of which is Respectfully Submitted Approved for Submission Jennifer Ford, Blaine Parkin Director of Financial Services/Treasurer Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk Page 10 of 26 Schedule A Treasurer's Statement Of Remuneration and Expenses - for County Council February 10 Session, 2026 To the Warden and Members of the Elgin County Council, The following is a statement of the remuneration, mileage, and expenses paid to each member of the Elgin County Council for the period of January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2025, along with a history for the prior two years. Remuneration and Mileage Council, Committees and Outside Boards 2025 2024 2023 Couckuyt, Jack 29,662.72 28,680.63 28,113.97 Giguere, Dominique (Dec 2025 Warden) 31,180.96 30,899.94 30,282.56 Hentz, Michael 29,930.04 29,186.20 28,673.38 Jones, Grant (Dec 2024 Warden & Jan -Nov 2025) 80,884.05 29,768.06 28,015.07 Ketchabaw, Edward (Dec 2022 Warden & Jan 2023-Nov 2024) 31,817.88 81,592.43 80,786.38 Leatham, Richard 31,003.94 25,075.27 21,603.40 McPhail, Duncan 0.00 0.00 7,133.52 Noble, Todd 29,017.01 28,225.54 27,436.33 Sloan, Andrew 29,385.59 28,985.65 28,986.06 Tellier, Taraesa 149.13 4,856.85 0.00 Widner, Mark 29,862.63 29,058.97 28,326.22 Total Paid to Warden & Council 322,893.95 316,329.54 309,356.89 Completed consistent with By -Law 05-12, By -Law 05-13 and By -Law 05-45. All of which is Respectfully Submitted Jennifer Ford Director of Financial Services / Treasurer 03-3z��� Blaine G. Parkin Chief Administrative Officer / Clerk Page 11 of 26 Schedule B Treasurer's Statement Of Remuneration and Expenses - for Outside Boards February 1OSession, 202G Tothe Warden and Members ofthe Elgin County Council, The following is a statement of the remuneration, mileage, and expenses paid to persons appointed to Outside Boards for the period January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2025 as authorized by the following By -Laws: Land Division Committee Aldred Dugald Andrews John Fleck John Jenkins David Marks Tom Bo|donJohn Unger William Total Joint Elgin -Central Elgin Accessibility Advisory Committee Payments for two meetings held in2824 Green Lane Committee No outside members Total Outside Boards All ofwhich isRespectfully Submitted Jennifer Ford Director of Financial Services / Treasurer Completed consistent with By -Law 23-03 Completed consistent with By -Law 25-13 Completed consistent with By -Law 25-13 Approved for Submission Blaine G.Parkin Page 12 of 26 Schedule C Treasurer's Statement on Convention Expenses To the Warden and Members of the Elgin County Council, The following is an itemized statement of the conventions attended and expenses paid to each Member of Elgin County Council, during the calendar year ending December 31, 2025. 2025 Conventions 1 2 3 4 5 Total for Councillor ROMA OGRA AMO OWIVIC Other Councillor Hentz, Mike 2,524.67 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 2,524.67 Gigu6re, Dominique 1,514.89 0.00 2,534.27 300.00 107.35 4,456.51 Jones, Grant 1,674.75 0.00 3,546.17 200.00 0.00 5,420.92 Ketchabaw, Ed (Warden) 2,195.80 0.00 2,636.71 0.00 0.00 4,832.51 Leatham, Richard 2,139.36 3,324.02 0.00 0.00 0.00 5,463.38 Noble, Todd 2,041.94 0.00 3,326.64 0.00 0.00 5,368.58 Sloan, Andrew 2,272.42 0.00 3,749.81 0.00 0.00 6,022.23 Widner, Mark 2,036.57 0.00 3,312.13 0.00 0.00 5,348.70 Totals $ 16,400.40 $ 3,324.02 $ 19,105.73 $ 500.00 $ 107.35 $ 39,437.50 All figures include H.S.T. ROMA Rural Ontario Municipal Association OGRA Ontario Good Roads Association AMO Association of Muncipalities Ontario OWIVIC Ontario West Municipal Conference Other London Chamber of Commerce All of which is Respectfully Submitted Jennifer Ford Director of Financial Services / Treasurer Blaine G. Parkin Chief Administrative Officer / Clerk Page 13 of 26 Schedule D 2025 Convention Expenses Councillor Registration Mileage & Other Expenses Per Diem Expenses Total Conventions Hentz, Mike 681.79 333.77 1,509.11 2,524.67 Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) 681.79 333.77 1,509.11 2,524.67 Ontario Good Roads Association (OGRA) 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Association of Municipalities Ontario (AMO) 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Ontario West Municipal Conference (OWIVIC) 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Other 0.00 0.06 0.00 0.00 Gigu6re, Dominique 2,004.98 537.80 1,913.73 4,456.51 Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) 681.79 126.08 707.02 1,514.89 Ontario Good Roads Association (OGRA) 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Association of Municipalities Ontario (AMO) 915.84 411.72 1,206.71 2,534.27 Ontario West Municipal Conference (OWNIC) 300.00 0.00 0.00 300.00 Other - London Chamber of Commerce 107.35 0.00 0.00 107.35 Jones, Grant (Warden) 1,797.63 1,117.00 2,506.29 5,420.92 Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) 681.79 19436 79&60 1,674.75 Ontario Good Roads Association (OGRA) 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Association of Municipalities Ontario (AMO) 915.84 922.64 1,707.69 3,546.17 Ontario West Municipal Conference (OWMC) 200.00 0.00 0.00 200.00 Other 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Ketchabaw, Ed 1,597.63 231.53 3,003.35 4,832.51 Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) 681.79 231.53 1,282.48 2,195.80 Ontario Good Roads Association (OGRA) 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Association of Municipalities Ontario (AMO) 915.84 0.00 1,720.87 2,636.71 Ontario West Municipal Conference (OWMC) 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Other - Western Ontario Wardens Caucus Annual General Meeting 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Leatham, Richard 1,648.51 531.20 3,283.67 5,463.38 Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) 681.79 238.13 1,219.44 2,139.36 Ontario Good Roads Association (OGRA) 966.72 29107 2,06423 3,324.02 Association of Municipalities Ontario (AMO) 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Ontario West Municipal Conference (OWIVIC) 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Other 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Noble, Todd 1,597.63 992.18 2,778.77 5,368.58 Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) 681.79 140.71 1,219.44 2,041.94 Ontario Good Roads Association (OGRA) 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Association of Municipalities Ontario (AMO) 915.84 851.47 1,559.33 3,326.64 Ontario West Municipal Conference (OWNIC) 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Other 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Sloan, Andrew 1,597.63 1,132.71 3,291.89 6,022.23 Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) 681.79 29&25 1,29238 2,272.42 Ontario Good Roads Association (OGRA) 0.00 0.06 0.00 0.00 Association of Municipalities Ontario (AMO) 915.84 834A6 1,999.51 3,749.81 Ontario West Municipal Conference (OWMC) 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Other 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Widner, Mark 1,597.63 910.16 2,840.91 5,348.70 Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) 681.79 135.34 1,219.44 2,036.57 Ontario Good Roads Association (OGRA) 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Association of Municipalities Ontario (AMO) 915.84 774.82 1,621.47 3,312.13 Ontario West Municipal Conference (OWMC) 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Other 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 TOTALS $12,523.43 $5,786.35 $21,127.72 $39,437.50 Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) 5,454.32 1,698.17 9,247.91 16,400.46 Ontario Good Roads Association (OGRA) 966.72 29107 2,06423 3,324.02 Association of Municipalities Ontario (AMO) 5,495.04 3,795.11, 9,815.58 19,105.73 Ontario West Municipal Conference (OWIVIC) 500.00 0.001 0.00 500.00 Other - London Chamber of Commerce 107.351 0.001 0.001 107.351 Page 14 of 26 ElginCounty Report to County Council From: Carolyn Krahn, Manager of Economic Development, Tourism & Strategic Initiatives Date: February 10, 2026 Subject: EDT 26-01 Rural Ontario Development Program Application: Transit Feasibility Study Recommendation(s): THAT the report titled "EDT 26-01 Rural Ontario Development Program Application: Transit Feasibility Study" from the Manager of Economic Development, Tourism & Strategic Initiatives dated February 10, 2026 be received and filed. Introduction: Elgin County staff are preparing an application to the Rural Ontario Development (ROD) Program to support a transit feasibility study. This study is identified in the County's 2026 Budget and has been approved by Council. The study will help define a scope of services and phasing for a rural transit service solution across Elgin County. Background and Discussion: Completed in 2025, the Transportation Master Plan (TMP) identifies that Elgin County currently has no unified, County -wide public transit system. Residents rely on a patchwork of neighbouring services —Railway City Transit, Middlesex County Connect, T:GO, and limited private operators —none of which provide consistent internal connections across the County. Public engagement conducted for the TMP showed strong interest in improved inter -community transit, especially for connections to St. Thomas, Aylmer, London, and Tillsonburg. The TMP highlights that growing employment areas —such as Talbotville, Aylmer, and the former Ford assembly plant site —will generate new transit demand, as workers will need reliable ways to reach these jobs. The TMP also notes the potential link between transit and tourism, suggesting that a seasonal shuttle to the Port towns could help residents connect to waterfront destinations while reducing traffic and parking pressures. Page 15 of 26 The TMP Action Plan, approved by Council, recommends that the County explore how to provide passenger transit connectivity through municipal partnerships and/or a County -led service supported by external funding. Short-term action: complete a detailed study examining partnership opportunities and the feasibility of piloting a County -wide transit service. • Medium -term action: enter into transit partnerships and/or implement a County -run service based on study results and available funding. Feedback received during the Economic Development & Tourism Plan consultations also identified limited public transportation as a barrier to accessing jobs, services, and economic opportunities —especially in rural areas. The Plan identifies "better public transportation" as an opportunity to support workforce mobility and reduce reliance on private vehicles. The recommended action is to work with regional partners and pursue funding opportunities to provide public transportation within Elgin County. The ROD Program supports rural communities by funding projects that strengthen local economic growth, workforce development, community infrastructure, and long-term economic resiliency. The Strategies and Plans stream is well -suited to this project, as it funds planning work —such as feasibility studies and economic development strategies —that help communities prepare for future growth. A transit feasibility study directly aligns with these objectives by addressing known barriers to economic development and providing the data and analysis needed to make informed decisions about future transit service. If the County's application is successful, staff will follow the County's procurement policy to engage consulting services. The application deadline is February 26, with funding decisions expected around June 2026. The project would begin following grant approval. Staff will continue to keep Council informed of the application and project progress. Financial Implications: The ROD Program's Strategies and Plans stream funds up to 50% of eligible project costs, to a maximum of $50,000. The 2026 budget includes $100,000 already approved by Council for this study. By applying to the ROD Program, the County can leverage this existing budget allocation to seek up to $50,000 in provincial matching funds. Advancement of the Strateaic Plan: This project supports several goals in the County's Strategic Plan. Under Strategy 1: Collaborative Engagement and Communication, the transit study builds directly on feedback received through the Transportation Master Plan and the Economic Development & Tourism Plan, both of which identified public transportation as a priority. Page 16 of 26 The study itself will involve strong collaboration with Local Municipal Partners, neighbouring municipalities, regional transit providers, and residents. Under Strategy 4: Sustainable Community Growth, improved transit planning will help support growth by providing more efficient and sustainable transportation options. Under Strategy 5: Community Well-being and Inclusivity, better transit can improve access to jobs, services, and community amenities —especially for youth, seniors, and others who may not have access to a personal vehicle. Local Municipal Partner Impact: A transit feasibility study will include and benefit the entire County. The study will involve engagement with local municipal partners, neighbouring municipalities, and regional transit providers to ensure that any future service considers inter -community travel needs and opportunities for collaboration. This regional approach reflects the strong public desire for improved connections between communities both inside and outside Elgin County. Communication Requirements: County staff will keep Council informed as the project moves forward, including funding decisions, procurement, and study progress. Conclusion: County staff will complete an application to the ROD Program to support the transit feasibility study. This project has already been approved by Council and aligns with the TMP, the Economic Development & Tourism Plan, and public feedback. ROD funding would reduce project costs for the County while supporting important work to assess transit options, improve mobility, and strengthen economic development across Elgin County. All of which is Respectfully Submitted Carolyn Krahn Manager of Economic Development, Tourism & Strategic Initiatives Approved for Submission Blaine Parkin Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk Page 17 of 26 SHARE: • JA[',JRJMR"'( 2026 W E S T E R N 0 N T A R 0 TV TV U WARDENS CAU(.';U3 Advai,-,i"7rioir�'�Jes at 2026 Page 18 of 26 b��on(j �)re,:�:nce �jhe 2026 Rrw .�onerence. 're Gener,". 0 bSb V D e Secor o Henge,:e ,d on reg .)ne /r ore or r re @,.no ener( K R")VIA Z 26 e ovenng Jred B;,n ��.��e @,.nd flhe e he e%en� /enO, er:� � r; � � I P; en� 0- cre E E gro;,,h IN-TTITAW, W., Page 19 of 26 for a one-year term, effective January 9, 2026. IN �11 A 0 a �_Aj a �M A Wfol I rff1-11,V,,,X1XV' of Treasurer. Warden Andrea Matrosovs from Grey County will serve as Chair of the Western Ontario Municipal Conference for 2026. Page 20 of 26 In addition to the Board leadership, Mayor Jim Ginn of Central Huron, was named Chair of the WOWC R ��������i���/////////ice,; 0II�I�I�I �o 0 Municipalities across Elgin County protectionin five municipalities across Elgin County. The Infrastructure Program's Health and Safety Water Stream 1IMHIP-HS=, which has increased 6 $7 safe drinking water, housing, job creation, and for communities in the event of extreme weatI,ei The MHIP-HSWS funding will be used for the following projects: ® The Town of Aylmer will receive $7,208,750 for the installation of headworks and fixed bed biological media system for the sanitary treatment lagoons. ® The Municipality of Central Elgin will receive $9,307,500 for flood mitigation in Port Stanley. ® The Municipality of Dutton-Dunwich will receive $4,735,875 for a wastewater treatment plant and pump station 1 upgrades ® The Township of Malahide will receive $15,330,000 for rehabilitation of the Port Burwell secondary main. ® The Township of Southwold will receive $24,685,041 for upgrade and expansion of a wastewater treatment plant. r Dufferin County The Ontario government is expanding access to high -quality mental health and addictions e Dufferin with the launch of a new Homelessness and x(HART) Hub in county Orangeville. This is part of the province's $550 million investment to open 28 HART Hubs across Ontario to protect the safety of children and families, while improving access to recovery and treatment services for people facing housing instability, mental health and substance use challenges. The HART Hub, operated by Services and Housing In the Province (SHIP), is now operational and delivering services through a collaborative network of clinical, social service and care providers working together to connect people with the supports they need, when they need them. Together, these partners deliver services tailored to the needs of the community, such as: ® Primary care ® Mental health services (including Dialectical Behavioural Therapy and Counselling) ® Addictions services ® Case management for employment services ® Case management for mental health and addiction services Page 21 of 26 • Basic needs support (food and hygiene products) • Transitional beds • Supportive housing services Grey County is proud to be recognized by the Ontario Government as an age -friendly community. Grey County was one of multiple communities presented with the designation at a CounGle special ceremony hosted by the Ontario Ministry for Seniors and AAccessibility on Sunday, January 18 at the Sheraton Centre in Toronto. j Grey County Warden Andrea Matrosovs attended the ceremony which coincided with the annual ROMA conference. Grey County launched its first Age -Friendly Communities Strategy and Action Plan in 2021 and continues to this year. The plan focuses on eight dimensions of an age -friendly community to support residents of all ages and helps create livable communities. Demands Roll policy changes have significantly increased their responsibilities. share a research summary about the challenges facing rural municipalities - Do More, With Less: The Realities of Local Government in Rural Ontario. The summary highlights the impact of New Public I Management reforms and how rural governments are coping with limited resources while facing growing demands. The research explores: The key policy changes that have increased responsibilities for rural local governments The financial and staffing challenges facing rural municipalities How rural governments are innovating through partnerships and collaboration to deliver services This summary has been created through the Connecting the Dots initiative at the University of Guelph, supported by the Ontario Agri -Food Innovation Alliance. To view more research summaries or learn about t initiative visit the link below I Page 22 of 26 As Ontariogovernment is launching the second intake the Rural Development economies of rural communities, build Ontario infrastructure and keep workers on the job. The announcement was made at the 2026 annual Rural Ontario Municipal x(ROMA) conference, with applications The government also announced an additional nmihon �o ne),,'21,—,,,� "c"'),�,,,—fles i astructure across the province. The funding comes from the upgrade and expand aging water n province's Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program (MHIP), which was increased to a total of $4 billion last yearAs �Rom Communi AM NM FuturesWestern Ontari°ic opportunitycommunities. While the challenges facing rural regions are well documented, the real turning strategy into action —and that moment is now. Your voice matters. I .. federal policy, funding approaches, and how programs are designed and delivered. The Action Plan is intended to: ® Make federal initiatives more inclusive of rural people and communities ® Improve program design and delivery so they reflect rural realities ® Strengthen engagement and collaboration with rural stakeholders The consultation is open from December 15, 2025, to February 6, 2026. You can access the consultation here Nt the same time, FedDev, funding reduction for the 37 Community Futures offices serving Southern Ontario, with contracts renewed forjust one year. In contrast, FedDev also announced an investment of more than $6 million in downtown Toronto. This disparity underscores the growing imbalance between urban and rural investment and highlights why strong, coordinated rural advocacy is more important than ever. Page 23 of 26 This consultation is a chance to collectively push for: • Sustainable, predictable long-term funding for rural service delivery • Fair and balanced regional investment across Ontario and Canada • Policies that recognize the economic, workforce, and community contributions of rural regions Western Ontario Wardens Caucus 1 789 1:3roadway R 1:3ox 3000 1 Wyoming, 01\1 1\101\1.1. FO CA g[i.12 e. 12d.g t .. !.,Egfiie I ��.!2.5Lanr. Con.act I..)ar..a NoLice ............ ................................................................................................................................................ Constant Contact Try ernaill marketing for free today! Page 24 of 26 �9111►IWK910�1Er11►1 By -Law No. 26-09 "BEING A BY-LAW TO APPOINT A SECRETARY -TREASURER AND SECRETARY - TREASURER ALTERNATES OF THE ELGIN COUNTY LAND DIVISION COMMITTEE" WHEREAS pursuant to Section 56 (1) of the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter P.13, the Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin did constitute and appoint an Elgin County Land Division Committee; and WHEREAS pursuant to Section 44 (8) of the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter P.13, the Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin shall appoint a Secretary -Treasurer to the Elgin County Land Division Committee; and WHEREAS, it is deemed advisable to appoint alternate persons to carry out the duties of the Secretary -Treasurer of the Elgin County Land Division Committee when the said Secretary -Treasurer is not available. NOW THEREFORE the Municipal Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin enacts as follows: 1. THAT the Administrative Assistant — Planning and Development for the County of Elgin, be and is hereby appointed to carry out the duties of the Secretary - Treasurer of the Elgin County Land Division Committee; and 2. THAT the Junior Planner, Director of Planning and Development and the Clerk/Clerk Designate for the County of Elgin be and are hereby appointed to carry out the duties of the Secretary -Treasurer of the Elgin County Land Division Committee when, for any reason, the said Secretary -Treasurer is unable to carry out their duties; and 3. THAT By -Law 24-32, 24-24, and any by-laws inconsistent with this by-law be repealed; and 4. THAT this by-law shall become effective upon its passing. READ A FIRST, SECOND AND THIRD TIME AND FINALLY PASSED THIS 10th DAY OF FEBRUARY 2026. Blaine Parkin, Dominique Giguere, Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk. Warden. Page 25 of 26 COUNTY OF ELGIN By -Law No. 26-10 "BEING A BY-LAW TO CONFIRM PROCEEDINGS OF THE MUNICIPAL COUNCIL OF THE CORPORATION OF THE COUNTY OF ELGIN AT THE FEBRUARY 10, 2026 MEETING" WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 5.1 of the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O.2001, c.25, as amended, the powers of a municipality shall be exercised by its Council; AND WHEREAS pursuant to Section 5.3 of the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c.25, as amended, the powers of every Council shall be exercised by by-law; AND WHEREAS it is deemed expedient that the proceedings of the Municipal Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin at this meeting be confirmed and adopted by by-law NOW THEREFORE the Municipal Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin enacts as follows: THAT the actions of the Municipal Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin, in respect of each recommendation contained in the reports and each motion and resolution passed and other action taken by the Municipal Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin, at its meeting held on February 10, 2026 be hereby adopted and confirmed as if all such proceedings were expressly embodied in this by-law. 2. THAT the Warden and appropriate officials of the Corporation of the County of Elgin are hereby authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to the actions of the Municipal Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin referred to in the preceding section hereof. 3. THAT the Warden and the Chief Administrative Officer, or alternate, are authorized and directed to execute all documents necessary in that behalf and to affix thereto the seal of the Corporation of the County of Elgin. READ A FIRST, SECOND AND THIRD TIME AND FINALLY PASSED THIS 10T" DAY OF FEBRUARY 2026. Blaine Parkin, Dominique Giguere, Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk. Warden. Page 26 of 26