Written By Olena Riznyk
LUCAN BIDDULPH – At its last meeting on September 2, Council worked through a full agenda covering emergency services, municipal lands, administrative policies, budget survey results, and road transfers.
One of the most notable decisions was the creation of a new Director of Emergency Services and Fire Chief. The one-year contract, with the option of extension, will oversee the dissolution of both the Lucan Biddulph and Biddulph Blanshard fire boards and manage the unification of services. Council emphasized that the position involves substantial administrative responsibility, including developing bylaws, setting service levels, ensuring compliance, and addressing health and safety. While some questioned whether the role should be permanent, the contract approach was seen as offering flexibility during the transition.
Council also considered municipal lands that had received an unsolicited purchase offer. After reviewing details of tree plantings completed in 2021 with the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority, members agreed to keep the forested section while offering about 9.4 acres for sale. The treed portion, which includes spruce, pine, and several hardwood species, will remain under municipal control.
An update was provided on the township’s policy manual. Staff explained that many finance and public works policies are outdated and will be repealed, while others will be updated for clarity. A policy on birthday and anniversary letters will be revised rather than removed, with plans to move the process online.
Council also reviewed results from the township’s fifth annual budget survey. Participation was slightly lower than in previous years, despite promotion and a gift card draw. While most respondents accepted that inflation likely means higher taxes, many urged council to find ways to maintain the current rate, even if that required service reductions or new user fees. Residents repeated familiar requests, including traffic calming and additional recreational facilities. Council stressed the importance of linking survey feedback directly to budget discussions.
Before concluding, councillors shared community updates. Residents were reminded to drive carefully as children return to school, with special attention to crosswalks and stop signs. Council also conveyed thanks from the Lucan Library, which reported its best-ever summer reading program with 510 participants, up from 425 the previous year. More than 2,300 people visited the branch in July, supported by local sponsors. The library now turns to regular programming and new initiatives. Families were also encouraged to take part in Scouting and Guiding, with a call for additional community leaders.
