Written By Olena Riznyk
NORTH MIDDLESEX – At its latest meeting on September 3rd, council discussed a range of issues including drainage, speed limits, employee benefits, mobile food outlets and fire department equipment.
Much of the discussion focused on the proposed Mud Creek Drain project, which includes a concrete box culvert estimated at $252,290.
Several affected landowners questioned the design, the size of the culvert, the storm level it would be designed for and how costs would be shared. Council also discussed whether other design options should be considered.
After a lengthy discussion, council deferred the engineer’s report and asked the current engineer to return with additional design specifications, including the culvert design, location and the level of storm event it would accommodate.
Councillors also approved proposed speed changes on municipal roads in urban areas. The plan would reduce speed limits to 40 km/h in urban areas and to 30 km/h in proposed community safety zones around schools, arenas and recreation facilities. County roads and private or unassumed developments would not be included.
A review of employee and council benefit costs from 2022 to 2026 was received. The report was requested after council raised questions about benefit costs and expected savings that did not materialize.
Representatives involved in the review said an audit identified some rate discrepancies and issues with transparency. Mayor Brian Ropp said the review helped explain what had happened after council found that the expected savings had not been achieved.
The proposed mobile food outlet bylaw also returned to the table.
Council reconsidered an earlier decision and then deferred the matter again so staff can provide a report on setbacks and licensing rules for commercial zones, including C1 and C2 zones.
Council also approved about $95,000 for breathing air equipment at the Ailsa Craig and Parkhill fire stations. Ailsa Craig will receive a new carbon monoxide monitor, while Parkhill will receive a new breathing air compressor and fill station.
During committee reports, council also asked for a condensed report on the special investigation into a recent collision at Centre Road and Nairn Road.
Staff also told council the municipality’s bylaw enforcement position remains vacant. The job posting has not yet been released, but staff said they are working to get the position posted.
Council also approved appointments to the joint Middlesex County 2026 election compliance audit committee, which is required under the Municipal Elections Act.
