Written By Olena Riznyk
NORTH MIDDLESEX – At the January 14 council meeting, councillors formally welcomed Scott Jones as the municipality’s new Fire Chief, noting his previous experience within the department and his new leadership role.
Several drainage projects were approved, covering both assessment reviews and new improvement works. Council confirmed the assessment schedules for the Robinson Drain and the Rollings Drainage Works after no appeals were submitted by affected landowners.
In addition, council approved drainage improvement projects for the Conlin-Vogels and Glavin-Swartz systems, as well as the Elliott Drainage Works. Municipal staff outlined work that includes tile replacements, open channel cleanouts, and road crossing upgrades. Councillors were told the projects are intended to improve drainage performance and long-term water management in multiple areas of the municipality, including locations that extend into neighbouring municipalities.
Residential development in Ailsa Craig was also addressed. Council approved a severance and zoning bylaw amendment for a property on Queen Street, allowing the creation of a new residential infill lot within an established neighbourhood.
Temporary zoning provisions were approved to allow an existing garage to remain on the severed parcel for a limited period while municipal road warranty restrictions remain in effect. Planning staff noted the proposal aligns with municipal and county planning policies.
A separate planning decision approved a Part Lot Control Exemption for a property on James Street. The exemption will allow two semi-detached dwelling units currently under construction to be legally separated and sold as individual properties. Planning staff described the application as largely technical in nature and confirmed the proposal meets zoning requirements.
Education-related issues were raised during committee reports, with council representatives sharing updates from recent meetings with provincial officials regarding the future of local schools.
Councillors noted that little new information was provided and confirmed that ongoing budget reduction requirements continue to influence decisions affecting rural school communities.
Members also acknowledged growing concern within the community and discussed the challenge of holding public meetings without clearer direction from the province.
Infrastructure concerns were also discussed, including complaints about road damage on Neil Road caused by heavy truck traffic associated with industrial construction activity. Municipal staff confirmed the issue is being reviewed and that possible responses are being examined.
Council further approved a motion to support the Friends of the Parkhill Carnegie Library with a formal letter of endorsement for a grant application. The organization is seeking funding to support marketing initiatives, updated branding, and promotional outreach.
