09 - April 28, 2026 County Council Post Meeting Agenda Package110C
ElginCounty
Elgin County Council
Regular Council Meeting
Post -Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, April 28, 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
3.1 Warden Giguere - National Day of Mourning
4.
Adoption of Minutes
3
5.
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof
6.
Presenting Petitions, Presentations and Delegations
6.1 Danielle Neilson, Acting Director of Social Services - St. Thomas - Elgin
8
Social Services Service Review
7.
Motion to Adopt Recommendations from the Committee of the Whole
7.1 Warden Giguere - ADM 26-14 - Recommendations from Committee of
33
the Whole — April 14, 2026
8.
Committee Recommendations
9.
Reports for Information and Immediate Consideration
10.
Council Correspondence
10.1 Letter from Bobbi-Jo Gardiner, Director of Philanthropy, Junior
35
Achievement South Western Ontario expressing appreciation to County
Council for 2026 Sponsorship funding.
10.2 Western Ontario Wardens' Caucus Media Release - WOWC Urges
36
Province to Protect Local Governance in Bill 100
10.3 Request from Baribeau Construction for a letter of support for the
38
Menno Lodge Phase II Affordable Seniors Housing Development
11. Statements/Inquiries by Members
12. Closed Meeting Items
12.1 Director of Legal Services - LEG 26-01 OLT Appeal
Municipal Act Section 239 (2) (f) advice that is subject to solicitor -client
privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose.
13. Motion to Rise and Report
14. Consideration of By -Laws
14.1 By -Law No. 26-17 Delegation of Authority During Restricted Period 40
14.2 By -Law No. 26-18 Confirmation 42
15. Adjournment
Page 2 of 42
Elgin County Council
Regular Council Meeting
Minutes
April 14, 2026, 9:00 a.m.
Council Chambers
450 Sunset Drive
St. Thomas ON
Members Present: Warden Dominique Giguere
Councillor Ed Ketchabaw
Councillor Mark Widner
Councillor Jack Couckuyt
Councillor Andrew Sloan
Councillor Todd Noble
Councillor Mike Hentz
Councillor Richard Leatham
Members Absent: Deputy Warden Grant Jones (with notice)
Staff Present: Blaine Parkin, Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk
Brian Masschaele, Director of Community & Cultural Services
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
Joe Anne Holloway, Director of Homes and Seniors Services
Andrew Case, Solicitor
Katherine Thompson, Manager of Administrative
Services/Deputy Clerk
Lindsay King, Policy Planner
Jenna Fentie, Legislative Services Coordinator
Stefanie Heide, Legislative Services Coordinator
Meeting Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 9:01 a.m. with Warden Giguere in the chair.
2. Approval of Agenda
Moved by: Councillor Leatham
Seconded by: Councillor Couckuyt
RESOLVED THAT the agenda for the April 14, 2026 County Council Meeting be
approved as presented.
Motion Carried.
3. Introductions, Recognitions, Memorials
None.
4. Adoption of Minutes
Moved by: Councillor Hentz
Seconded by: Councillor Ketchabaw
Page 3 of 42
RESOLVED THAT the open and closed session minutes of the meeting held on
March 24, 2026 be adopted.
Motion Carried.
5. Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof
None.
6. Presenting Petitions, Presentations and Delegations
6.1 Frank Schonberger, Member of the Public - Farmland Data
Frank Schonberger, member of the public, provided a delegation to
Council overviewing his concerns regarding the accuracy of data on the
amount of acres of farmland being lost per day in Ontario.
Moved by: Councillor Noble
Seconded by: Councillor Sloan
RESOLVED THAT the delegation from Frank Schonberger, member of
the public, regarding farmland data, be received and filed.
Motion Carried.
7. Motion to Adopt Recommendations from the Committee of the Whole
7.1 Warden Giguere - ADM 26-12 - Recommendations from Committee of
the Whole — March 24, 2026
Moved by: Councillor Hentz
Seconded by: Councillor Widner
RESOLVED THAT item CW26-32 from the Committee of the Whole
meeting dated March 24, 2026, and the recommendations therein be
adopted.
Motion Carried.
8. Committee Recommendations
None.
9. Reports for Information and Immediate Consideration
9.1 Director of Community and Cultural Services - CCS 26-03 West Lorne
Library Expansion Update
The Director of Community and Cultural Services presented the report
providing Council with an overview of the West Lorne Library renovation
project.
Moved by: Councillor Leatham
Seconded by: Councillor Widner
RESOLVED THAT the report titled "CCS 26-03 West Lorne Library
Expansion Update" from the Director of Community and Cultural Services
dated April 14, 2026 be received and filed.
Motion Carried.
9.2 Director of Planning and Development - PLN 26-04 Proposed
Provincial Planning Reforms under Bill 98 and the Build
Communities Strong Fund
The Policy Planner presented the report summarizing recent Provincial
and Federal initiatives related to housing supply and infrastructure
delivery, including proposed legislative changes under Bill 98: Building
Page 4 of 42
Homes and Improving Transportation Infrastructure Act, 2026 and
associated postings on the Environmental Registry of Ontario (ERO), as
well as the announcement of the Build Communities Strong Fund.
Moved by: Councillor Ketchabaw
Seconded by: Councillor Leatham
RESOLVED THAT staff be directed to prepare comments on the proposed
reforms under Bill 98 and the Build Communities Strong Fund, in
accordance with Council direction; and
THAT staff be directed to submit these comments to the Province during
the consultation period for open Environmental Registry of Ontario
postings, as detailed in the report titled "PLN 26-04 - Proposed Provincial
Planning Reforms under Bill 98 and the Build Communities Strong Fund."
Motion Carried.
9.3 Director of Engineering Services - ENG 26-08 Highbury Avenue -
Upload Request
The Director of Engineering Services presented a report to Council with
the recommendation to request that the Province of Ontario assume
jurisdiction over the County of Elgin's portion of Highbury Avenue, and
between Ron McNeil Line and Webber Bourne, being a total distance of
5.7 km, for Council's consideration.
Moved by: Councillor Widner
Seconded by: Councillor Noble
RESOLVED THAT Highbury Avenue is an important economic corridor
connecting the City of St. Thomas and its Power Co. development to the
City of London and Highway 401 corridor; and
THAT the Province's Southwestern Ontario Transportation Planning Study
has identified Highbury Avenue as part of the regional Strategic Goods
Movement Network, that supports the needs of businesses and
employees, that moves goods and services reliably and safely and that
facilitates economic drivers; and
THAT the transportation master plans of the County of Elgin and the City
of London have identified that Highbury Avenue will exceed its 2-lane
capacity, necessitating widening from two to four lanes in the next 10
years at an estimated cost of $150 million requiring multi -jurisdictional
coordination and complex planning, and therefore;
THAT the County of Elgin requests that the Provice of Ontario accept the
transfer of jurisdictional authority over Highbury Avenue at no cost, with
the respectful request to collaborate with the County to ensure this
important asset accommodates the region's needs.
Motion Carried.
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 Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative -Making Waves
Newsletter
10.2 Western Ontario Wardens' Caucus (WOWC) -March 2026 Newsletter
Page 5 of 42
10.3 Volunteer Elgin Update - Strengthening Volunteerism in Elgin County
10.4 St. Thomas -Elgin Public Art Centre - 2025 Annual Report
10.5 Letter to the Hon. Paul Calandra, Minister of Education, from the
London District Catholic School Board (LDCSB) re: Trustee
Determination
10.6 Resolution from the Municipality of Chatham -Kent re: Food
Insecurity Emergency Declaration
10.7 Letter from Damella Group Limited re: Proposing Property Option at
154 Talbot Street West for Aylmer Library
Moved by: Warden Giguere
Seconded by: Councillor Widner
RESOLVED THAT staff be directed to report back to Council with an
update on all options for the location of the Aylmer Library.
Motion Defeated.
10.8 St. Thomas and District Chamber of Commerce - Sponsorship
Funding Redirect Request
Moved by: Councillor Noble
Seconded by: Councillor Hentz
RESOLVED THAT the request from the St. Thomas & District Chamber of
Commerce to redirect sponsorship funding to the "Social Issues Are
Business Issues" event be approved.
Motion Carried.
11. Statements/Inquiries by Members
11.1 Warden Giguere - Warden's Mini -Golf Charity Tournament and
Banquet
Warden Giguere announced that the Warden's Mini -Golf Charity
Tournament and Banquet will be held on October 2, 2026, at the Masonic
Centre of Elgin.
12. Closed Meeting Items
12.1 Closed Meeting Minutes - March 24, 2026
13. Motion to Rise and Report
None.
14. Consideration of By -Laws
14.1 By -Law No. 26-16 Confirmation
BEING a By -Law to Confirm Proceedings of the Municipal Council of the
Corporation of the County of Elgin at the April 14, 2026 Meeting.
Moved by: Councillor Couckuyt
Seconded by: Councillor Leatham
RESOLVED THAT By -Law No. 26-16 be now read a first, second, and
third time and finally passed.
Motion Carried.
15. Adjournment
Moved by: Councillor Hentz
Seconded by: Councillor Widner
4
Page 6 of 42
RESOLVED THAT we do now adjourn at 10:30 a.m. to meet again on April 28,
2026 at 9:00 a.m.
Motion Carried.
Blaine Parkin, Dominique Giguere,
Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk. Warden.
Page 7 of 42
w
I
p
m
r,w
11
p
m
(0
4-
0
1-0 0-1
U)
U)
12
0-
07
u
c
(0
4-1
c
4-1
U)
0
(0
(0
>,
0
iI
Wy
4-j
ry
u
Wy
0-0
U)
UJ
E
4-j
U)
0
u) E
uji
U
4-j
(D a}MU)
U) L-
0-0
E
U
U)
(D 4-
0
•
® E
Om
rA
0
U) (D Q
0 0 0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0 0
11 0 11 0 11
7-
rl
00
-6
0
LE
0
UQ)
>
> 0
0
u
oS-
>
E
U)
s-
0,
CCSo
0
O
4-j
0 U)
0 Q)
x
U) 0
Q)
4-j
Q)
�-j
0 U)
>1
U) 7�
E
0
>1 tTS
0 0 U
U) 4—
L-
O
>1 0 (D UM)
um)
0
m 4-
m
a) U
0) 7-
>,
0-
U a)
0
4-j
>
Q)
-2
E
4-j
)
u)
d/A
-0
E
u)
0
®
-0
0
E
U)
U,) U) 0
m
>
C)
x
U)
N
Q)
LliU
(3) 0- u
0
0
0
U)
To - ao
CIS
.0
-U,-j
CCS o
u)
:3
-0
u
(0)
Q)
tTS
0 uO
u
U
(3) , U)
(\j U) (00
2:, (O')�
05
u
5 - 8)
(105 2
2
U) -4--
li
2
0 LZ
0
U)
U U
U)
E
n
u 2 'o
Q)
E
G)
0 c -a
(D
0- Q)
0
m
U) c
x r-i
0
0
u
C
5
laa
73
a)
u
U)
a)
tti
QL
a)
u
u
73
a)
U)
Cli
73
C.
u
iaa
a)
z
I
N
00
Ln
Ln
ni
0 0 0 0 0
w w -It r14
I
i
I
I
i
Kol
U
CD
LOZ
W "
E
Q}62
c
U
Ou
U)
U)
®'
U
0
U
6
v)
>'
i
N
U)0J
_U)
2
®
�
-
07
O
},
J
0
15
0
U
U) U)
U
U
0
S
�
N
®
O
0�
N ij
i
®
i
M
2
0
0 i
+15
�
® i
U) ®
1.12
Ui5}
U
U- ®
c 0
x
i (/)
(3}
_'
U)
M
U) c
U 07
0
4
i
m
m
0
(D �
i
i
a)0
uw
U
CCS
C6
jo
4-j
il
>1
I
U)
0
S-
m
E
U)
(D
>
U)
(D
0
c
>1 0
0
0
4-j
U)
U)
s- (D7
u —
Eom_r_m
UU
E
U) 5,
c
M
S-
W 0
®
m
U)
E
M
u) u)
±2
oS- E
1 5
o
U)
>
® ®
U)
-C
-1-
0 N
LO
0
>,
4- (D
U 0
0
N
LO Tq
M
0
'—LIJ
5
Lli o
—C
I
U)
Sm
MF
0
rl
00
0 0 0 0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0 0 0
"1 0 m 1.0 �T
m
Lu
El
:L
m
I
;2z
A-
0
U
� �
>
> •0
E
a >
cn :3 U
cn
E'c�
Z
> U
U p
J
o� o a
U a U
..
d W
Cy6
O J d d
a
U
U
U
y w cn
0
E
O O m
cn
cn
�WJY(n>(n(nLL(n(nLU
�
. . .
. .
. . . . . . .
CN
ia9
� V
W
J
p
6 J O
�~
J
+J O
o
O
cn
+J
O O O
m d U}
.
O �
� +J
U
�
U
O
cn
U) J
Z
>®
p O O
cn
O
J J
U 0 UJ
CO®
O-0
O O
O O
°
Imcn®<c���mcn���
. .
. . . . .
. . . . . . .
IMA
r
9
M
Fu
:t2
M
• 0
U)
(D
0
E 4
40- 0
>
4-j
G)
Q)
(D E
E
0•U)
• 0
4-
C-
0
4-j r-I
-u)
(D
E
m
U)
cn
m
0
•0
M
D U)
-0 4-
'-7-
76 1
o
E
M U)
•4-j
0
0
0
C- m
>1
•
M
4-j•Zi
U)
0
U)
4-j
u) E
1.
0
13 o
M
0
13 =2 M
0 C)
U)
0
c)
M
E
U)
o�--
m
M (o
4--J•
(3)
M
U-0
c)
M
:3
(7)
T
(7) 0 21
U)
4-j
.0
u
j
4-
M
C)
M
0
GD)
u
G)
M•
U)
0
M
U)
U)
U)
U)
U)
G)
U)
>1
c)
M
LJ
0
:3
0
• 00
00
QD)
L"-
C-
4-
00
m
(D
U)
0
Is
9
■
8
0
I
pi
I
I,
c
.2
T3
,)o
L n T3
OEMT3
7.3
Ln c
ri 0 0
u
oj
Ln
0
0,
Oil
0,
Oil
qj
lu
lu
q
q
q
q
q
co
011
c
N
--i
qj
nIlj
N
N
--i
00
m
m
N
4-j
0 c
� : M
E
:3
U)
a)
4-j 4-j
(D U)
E
I.-
ollo
> m
E
co
0
U
N
4-j
0
LU
4-
0
-0
-4-J
-4-J
4-
il
m U5
0
U)
<
E
-0
4-j
0
o
ca
-4-5
I--
-4-J
-r-
4-j
(n
4-1
C
M
r_
U)
>
0
+75
()
0
u
0
0
U)
4-J
(T
JI
UJ
4-
-4 J
M
>,
0
4- (rj
4- U)
U)
4-
U)
M
0—
0
0
E
.0
• V..4
c M,
.- C
®
u
4-
o
43
0
E
UJ
lll�
0
0
CA
u
ui
(n
0
o•
0
V)
@4
I
L-
(0
0
(0
a
o
0
()
U)
Q)
Q
)
U)
Q)
Q)
U)
U
o
U)
Q)
11
Q)
4a
0 (n
4.-J
4-
LT
Q)
•
U)
:t2
U)
4-j
0
0
4-j
4-j
•
E•E
o••
U)
U)
M
U)•
4-1
4-j
E
0.-1
m
o
0
0
4-j
"
0
M
U)
U)
o
0
0
u
ry
u
>1
N
N
E N
>' O N
O
J
LLJ N
i N )
N a'
m — a- j
>1 >1 N
N
E U > a)
0 N a m�
O E _
O
Q) c
m Q LL �
= u —
`� 2 �
c� c� U U)
OLU
N
0 N " O O O ro
U
o i 0 (o� U
O-a N QJ Q N O N
Q) E �U
0) o }, m O >1
0>1 "a) _E� n =O °E
O
>, 4 O O W N
O _O O +� }'
CIS E Q � U U Cn cj N mU E E E .0 O C�6 U
> O m W E N `� 0 c)
N ULn
O O O
CIS N a 0 v O N m U 4-:3
}' O +� J Z M
0 O O ) N� � � � O z� �
O U N� N Q
� N
y Q N N O N C
(�+, O > :�
• cn +, U >1 O
c� Cn Q N Q N co .� .� E
p i Q E N O Q:3 E v 0 >,
O 0Lu o(n O Q�UWW Q
J
>
4
•
1
piq
U)
x
E
0
0
0
CIS
ob
u
U)
0
Lli 0-
0
LO
±2
(3)
E
E -0 0
CI)
cy
4-1
M
EO
0
=
0
0
CIS•
4-j
c .—
X
:Lj
CO
-r-
(3)
m
0
LO
0
±2
u 4
U ® ®
)
U)
i5
0
a)
(X
LO (.C) 00
c f)
U c-
0
(D
0
N N
U)
0
E E U)
E
o o U)
0
4-, UJ :3
N
ro
0
0
4-j
4a
Eo
T
o
U -c,i
0 —
L.
CCS
CCS,
0 0 -0
4—J
cn
4—
:E
ZEl
U
Pf
I
�
9
9
cn
9
I
I
0.0
4—J
•
B 6
CIS
m
alb I
I
z ED
E
0
111141044op"ll I
oo�
"�Oolcook
1110911
0000
m
w
wf
Lk
ZJ�
ed
z
z
z
...........
ll
C-)
(D
I
GPOA
FAE3
N
0)
N
m
mi
0
0
>, E
L-
(0
0
(0
(0
-a
c
0
LO
0)
uj
0
U-
0 m U)
0
I
a
m
E
0
0
4-j
0
o
4-j
m
0
rA
LO
4--1
U)
o
c- 0-
4-j
E
E
0
u
I
0
I
I
m
mi
D
0
C)
U)
E
O
Mu
C4
01,
O
O
O.0
ui
4-j
E
0
LO
Z
m
r-,
CIS
U)
0
0
0-
0
0
I_-
40,
z
U)
LQ
(Y)
@j
0
o
E
C
(D
u
o
(D
0
U)
-
4-
-
M
0
6),�3
rA
c
(D
p
4-j
(n
Lo
-a
W
11
E]
E]
U)
("
(D-0
u
0- m
/00
,000 0
ElginCc),L,inty
Report to County Council
From: Dominique Giguere, Warden
Date: April 28, 2026
Subject: ADM 26-14 - Recommendations from Committee of the Whole — April 14,
2026
Recommendation(s):
THAT items CW26-36 — CW26-38 from the Committee of the Whole meeting dated April
14, 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 April 14, 2026, Committee of the Whole recommended the
following to County Council:
CW26-36
THAT a by-law be presented for approval
to delegate authority to the Chief
Administrative Officer during a period of
restricted acts in the 2026 municipal
election year.
Moved: Councillor
Leatham
Seconded: Councillor
Hentz
Motion Carried.
CW26-37
THAT Desjardins Insurance be selected as
Moved: Councillor Hentz
Group Benefits Provider for the County of
Seconded: Councillor
Elgin, RFP No. 26-P03, effective July 1,
Leatham
2026; and
Motion Carried.
THAT County Council approve the renewal
of coverage with AIG Insurance for AD&D
coverage, effective July 1, 2026; and
THAT the Warden and Chief Administrative
Officer be authorized to execute all
contracts and related documentation.
Page 33 of 42
CW26-38 THAT staff be directed to report back to Moved: Councillor Hentz
County Council with procurement Seconded: Councillor
recommendation for an asset management Widner
and work order software solution that will Motion Carried.
meet the needs of the County, and its local
municipal partners complete with
anticipated costs, resource needs, an
implementation timeline, and a full detailed
business case.
Additional Notes:
None.
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 April 14, 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 34 of 42
411 A
South Western
Ontario
April 17, 2026
County of Elgin
Jenna Fentie and Elgin County Council, and Staff
450 Sunset Drive
St. Thomas ON N5R 5V1
Dear Jenna and Elgin County Council, and Staff,
This iswhatyour investment makes possible.
In classrooms across South Western Ontario, students gather around, pencils
in hand, ready to tackle real -world challenges. They laugh, debate, and cheer
each other on, fully immersed in Junior Achievement programs made
possible through your support.
One educator recently shared:
"Truly fantastic program thatadds rich learning to our students. They become so engrossed
and engagers for the entire day! Vol nteers are knowledgeable and connect with the
students so effectivel fit n exceptional experience, every time!"
-Grade 7 Dollars with Sense, 2024......20 5
Because of your support, young people are building confidence they didn't
know they had, exploring possibilities they hadn't imagined, and gaining
practical skills that prepare them for life beyond the classroom. Every spark of
curiosity, every "aha" moment, and every smile of pride exists because you
chose to invest in their future.
We are deeply grateful for your collective commitment and the meaningful
role it plays in strengthening our community and preparing young people for
success beyond the classroom. Thank you for believing in the potential of our
youth and for walking alongside them on this journey.
Bobbi-Jo Gardiner, CFRE
Director of Philanthropy
Junior Achievement South Western Ontario
IS Wharricliffe Road N, I.._pnpry ON N61-I 2AII S19.439.4201 .ila:�=pc�.c�rg I ire pCdjaswp.prg
Page 35 of 42
R 1. E S
Media Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — April 22, 2026
WOWC Urges Province to Protect Local Governance in Bill 100
Western, ON — The Western Ontario Wardens' Caucus (WOWC) is advocating for a collaborative
approach to municipal governance reform as the Province considers Bill 100, the Better Regional
Governance Act, 2026.
WOWC is raising concerns about proposed changes such as provincially appointed Wardens and
expanded executive powers, noting they represent a significant shift away from locally determined
governance.
"Municipal governments work best when they remain local, accountable, and responsive to the
communities they serve," said WOWC Chair Marcus Ryan. "Counties are already delivering on
housing, infrastructure, and economic growth. Governance changes must build on that success —not
undermine it."
While the legislation directly impacts only one WOWC member, the Caucus noted it signals a broader
provincial direction that could affect Counties across Western Ontario.
WOWC emphasized that counties operate differently than regions and cities, relying on collaborative,
two-tier systems that reflect rural realities and ensure balanced representation.
"Local leadership matters —especially in rural and County systems where collaboration across
municipalities is critical," added Ryan. "A one -size -fits -all approach does not reflect how Counties
operate or the realities of our communities."
The Caucus is advocating for the Province to ensure any future reforms:
• Maintain locally elected leadership
• Recognize differences between municipal structures
• Reflect rural and regional realities
• Be developed in partnership with municipalities
WOWC remains committed to working with the Province to advance shared priorities and support
strong, effective municipal governance across Western Ontario.
Page 36 of 42
/_1•T•11'[9
The Western Ontario Wardens' Caucus (WOWC) is a not -for -profit organization representing 15
upper and single -tier municipalities in Southwestern Ontario, representing more than 1.6 million
residents. The WOWC aims to enhance the prosperity and overall wellbeing of rural and small urban
communities across the region. Caucus members work collectively to influence federal and provincial
legislation and programs through advocacy, research, analysis and education. For more information,
visit www.wowc.ca.
Media Contact
Kate Burns Gallagher, Executive Director
Western Ontario Wardens' Caucus
T: 519-495-6059 E: kate(o)wowc.ca
Page 37 of 42
➢ $anibeauu (.., struuotloun (Lomlm) IAd
10 Stardust Drive
Dorchester, Ontario
NOL 1 G5
April2411, 2026
Jenna Fentie
Legislative Services Coordinator
County of Elgin
Re: Request for Council Letter of Support — Menno Lodge Phase II
DearJenna,
On behalf of Menno Lodge and the project team, we respectfully request that the County of
Elgin consider providing a formal letter of support for the Menno Lodge Phase II affordable
seniors housing development.
This approximately $18.8 million project will deliver 46 new affordable rental units for
seniors in Aylmer, with construction anticipated to begin in Fall 2026 and occupancy
targeted for Winter 2027.
As part of our application to the federal Build Canada Homes program, demonstrated
support from multiple levels of government is a key requirement. A letter of support from
the County would significantly strengthen the application and help advance this project.
We would appreciate Council's consideration of this request at the upcoming meeting.
Thank you foryour continued support and consideration.
Sincerely,
Landon Yoi g
t� 519-268-8343 F I Info@Baribe �Coonsstlio�nfcq W I www.BaribeauConstruction.com
County of Elgin
[Department Name]
[Address]
Date
To Whom It May Concern,
On behalf of the County of Elgin, we are pleased to express our support for the proposed
Menno Lodge Phase II affordable seniors housing development in the community of Aylmer,
Ontario, submitted for consideration under the Build Canada Homes initiative
The County of Elgin recognizes that affordable housing for seniors is a significant and growing
challenge across our region. Like many rural and small urban communities, Elgin County is
experiencing an aging population, rising housing costs, and a limited supply of appropriate,
accessible rental housing for older adults living on fixed or modest incomes. These pressures
are particularly acute for seniors who wish to remain in their community, close to family, social
networks, and essential services.
The proposed Menno Lodge development directly responds to these local and regional needs
by delivering new, purpose-built affordable rental housing for seniors. By supporting aging in
place, the project promotes housing stability, improves quality of life for residents, and helps
reduce long-term pressure on health care, emergency housing, and long-term care systems.
Menno Lodge of Aylmer Inc. has a long-standing history as a local non-profit housing provider
and has demonstrated a strong understanding of seniors' housing needs. Its experience
operating rent -geared -to -income and affordable housing, combined with a lean governance
structure and strong community partnerships, positions the organization well to deliver and
operate this project successfully over the long term.
The County of Elgin recognizes this project as an essential and strategically important
investment in addressing the affordable housing needs of seniors in Elgin County.
We are pleased to provide our unequivocal support and endorsement of Menno Lodge's
application for federal funding through the Build Canada Homes program.
Should additional information be required, please do not hesitate to contact our office.
Sincerely,
[Name]
[Title]
County of Elgin
Page 39 of 42
COUNTY OF ELGIN
By -Law No. 26-17
"BEING A BY-LAW TO DELEGATE AUTHORITY TO THE CHIEF
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER TO ACT IN THE EVENT THAT THE COUNCIL'S
ACTIONS BECOME RESTRICTED UNDER SECTION 275 OF THE
MUNICIPAL ACT, 2001."
WHEREAS Section 5(3) of the Municipal Act, 2001, c. 25, as amended, authorizes a
municipality to pass by-laws to exercise its municipal powers;
AND WHEREAS Sections 224(d) and 224(e) of the Municipal Act, 2001, c. 25,
as amended, provide that it is the role of council to ensure that administrative practices
and procedures are in place to implement the decisions of council and to maintain the
financial integrity of the municipality;
AND WHEREAS Section 275(1) of the Municipal Act, 2001, c. 25 as amended, restricts
the actions of a council of a local municipality after the first day during the election period
that the new council will include less than three-quarters of the members of the outgoing
council;
AND WHEREAS Section 275(3) of the Municipal Act, 2001, c.25, restricts Council from
taking action on the following:
a) The appointment or removal from office of any officer of the municipality;
b) The hiring or dismissal of any employee of the municipality;
c) The disposition of any real or personal property of the municipality which has a
value exceeding $50,000 at the time of disposal; and
d) Making any expenditure or incurring any other liability which exceeds $50,000.
AND WHEREAS Section 275(6) of the Municipal Act, 2001, as amended, authorizes
councils to delegate authority to persons prior to nomination day for the election of a new
council;
AND WHEREAS the Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin deems it
expedient to delegate authority to the Chief Administrative Officer to take action, where
necessary, on certain acts during the restricted period;
NOW THEREFORE the Corporation of the County of Elgin HEREBY ENACTS AS
FOLLOWS:
THAT, in the event that the Council's actions become restricted under Section 275
of the Municipal Act, 2001, the Council of the County of Elgin enacts as follows:
(a) Where a joint delegation of authority is specified to be exercised, in the
absence of consensus, the delegation of authority rests with the Chief
Administrative Officer ("CAO");
(b) All authorities in this By-law may be further designated in writing and are
conveyed automatically to those performing the duties of a position in an
Acting or interim capacity;
(c) The CAO is delegated the authority to remove any employee or officer of the
County;
(d) The CAO is delegated the authority to hire any employee or officer of the
County, other than statutory officers of the County, with this delegation of
authority being conditional on not exceeding the previously allotted
complement of staff positions;
(e) The CAO is delegated the authority to appoint any Acting officer of the
municipality in the event of a departure or vacancy of such statutory officer;
(f) The CAO and Treasurer are jointly delegated as the financial signing
authority for expenditures outside the current budget, exceeding $50,000;
Page 40 of 42
(g) The CAO is delegated authority for those actions identified in By -Law No. 20-
07, being the "Purchasing By -Law" that would otherwise be performed by
Council, (i) if an expenditure is being made or any other liability being
incurred which exceeds $50,000 and was not included in the most recent
budget adopted, or, (ii) an expenditure or liability which exceeds $50,000 is
included in the most recent budget adopted by Council and is required to
exceed the budgeted amount, or, (iii) if a single source or sole source
expenditure is being incurred which exceeds $50,000.
(h) The CAO and Clerk are jointly delegated the authority to give effect to a
disposition of real or personal property of the County and to execute any
Agreement of Purchase and Sale or other document pertaining to the
disposition or interest in any real or personal property of the municipality
which has a value exceeding $50,000 at the time of disposal-
(i) The CAO and Clerk are jointly appointed signing authority for all agreements
authorized by section 1(h); and,
Q) All use of delegated authorities enacted by this By-law shall be reported on to
Council with details relevant to the exercise of the delegated authority to
Council no later than March 31, 2027.
THAT this By-law shall come into force and take effect on the final passing thereof.
READ A FIRST, SECOND AND THIRD TIME AND FINALLY PASSED THIS 28th DAY OF
APRIL 2026.
Blaine Parkin, Dominique Giguere,
Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk. Warden.
Page 41 of 42
COUNTY OF ELGIN
By -Law No. 26-18
"BEING A BY-LAW TO CONFIRM PROCEEDINGS OF THE MUNICIPAL COUNCIL OF
THE CORPORATION OF THE COUNTY OF ELGIN AT THE
APRIL 28, 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 April 28, 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 28T" DAY OF
APRIL 2026.
Blaine Parkin, Dominique Giguere,
Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk. Warden.
Page 42 of 42