Written By Olena Riznyk
LUCAN BIDDULPH – The June 16 council meeting began with heartfelt recognition of longtime volunteer Linda Barr, who was named the township’s 2025 Senior of the Year. Known for her dedication to Scouts and her role on the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee, Barr was praised for her resilience and unwavering commitment to community life. “She’s always asking, ‘What can I do?’” said Mayor Cathy Burghardt-Jesson. “And she’s not showing any signs of slowing down.”
Council then turned its attention to a key economic development matter. After reviewing two competitive proposals, Council awarded the lease of a municipally owned building at 269 Main Street to Tina Gokstrop. She plans to open a retail space focused on locally grown, farm-fresh food. It was clarified that while the Township will be responsible for structural upkeep—such as the roof and windows—the tenant will handle interior preparations and any necessary upgrades. Council members welcomed the initiative, calling it a positive step for local business and downtown vibrancy.
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a discussion on recent changes introduced under provincial Bill 17. CAO Ron Reymer explained that fees previously collected at the building permit stage will now be deferred until occupancy. Furthermore, municipalities are no longer permitted to charge interest on phased payments—an adjustment that could disrupt long-term infrastructure financing.
Reymer noted that the new rules could create cash flow challenges for municipalities by delaying revenue collection while still requiring infrastructure to be in place. He warned that this shift would likely place additional financial pressure on existing taxpayers, who ultimately absorb the cost when municipalities are unable to collect development charges upfront.
The meeting also highlighted several community recreation successes. Recent upgrades to the Market Street Ball Diamond and the Grant Pavilion were reported, along with strong turnout for summer day camps and swimming lessons. The free pool pass lending program continues to receive positive feedback, and seniors’ fitness classes were described as “well-attended and deeply appreciated” by committee members.
Meanwhile, the trail network around Granton Park is seeing increased use by residents. A proposal to create a printed or digital trail map was met with enthusiasm, with hopes that it will encourage more exploration of local green spaces and contribute to healthy, active living.
In closing, Mayor Burghardt-Jesson reminded staff to follow up on a request from the township’s auditor to begin work on a formal investment policy—an item expected to return for discussion later in the summer.
