Council Meeting - April 14

Announcements

Mayor Clarke opened the meeting with a few announcements.

• Mayor Clarke began by thanking the infrastructure crew for their outstanding efforts over the past year, particularly in response to winter weather challenges.  The infrastructure department effectively managed various conditions, from multiple snowstorms to what was termed the "ice storm of the century." This severe ice storm prompted a State of Emergency declaration.  Mayor Clarke also acknowledged the hard work of all the departments, including the Fire Department and Bylaw Enforcement.  Mayor Clarke, on behalf of the Council, provided an appreciation for the staff's ongoing commitment to safeguarding residents and providing timely information.
• Mayor Clarke recognized the contributions of service organizations, particularly the Brechin Mara Legion, which opened its doors to provide a safe and cozy place to warm up, charge devices, and share a delicious meal.
• He also expressed gratitude to the residents of Ramara for their solidarity in helping each other during this challenging time, showcasing the community's unity and compassion. As Ramara moves into recovery and long-term cleanup, Mayor Clarke encouraged continued support and kindness, emphasizing that working together will help them overcome challenges.
• Mayor Clarke announced that Ashley Watson will be leaving her role as the Manager of Business, Communications, and Community Engagement. Ashley joined the Township in October 2014 in the infrastructure department and transitioned to Communications in 2019. During her time in this role, she played a key part in developing communications that greatly enhanced community engagement and improved access to information for residents.

Members of Council shared their announcements.

• Councillor Tuju reported that she attended the Couchiching Conservatory's Annual General Meeting, where she networked and formed partnerships to assist with establishing Ramara's Climate Action Committee.
• Councillor Fisher expressed her gratitude to the Brechin Mara Legion for helping the residents of Ramara during the ice storm. She also noted that the Brechin Mara Legion and the Brechin District Lion's Club hosted their annual "Breakfast with the Easter Bunny," on Sunday, April 13, with funds raised to support local families in need.
• Councillor Bell mentioned that she was wearing protective sunglasses due to recent surgery, which helped shield her from the fluorescent lighting.

Committee of the Whole

Department Reports

Pavement Marking Tender

The Council approved entering into a contract with Stoneline Ltd. for the pavement marking requirements of various roads within the Township at a cost of $38,668.80 in 2025, $39,177.60 in 2026, and $39,177.60 in 2027.

Pulverizing Tender

The Council approved entering into a contract with Lisbon Paving for the pulverizing of Birch Drive, at a cost of $8,676.23.

Surface Treatment Tender

The Council approved entering into a contract with CRH Canada Group Inc. for the surface treatment of Birch Drive, amounting to $88,224.90.

Gravel Overlay Tender

The Council approved entering into a contract with Robert E Young Construction Ltd. for a gravel overlay, with a total cost of $332,968.90.

Winter Maintenance Tender

The Council approved the extension of the winter maintenance contract with CRH Canada Group (Dufferin) for the winter seasons of 2025/2026 and 2026/2027.

Engineering Consulting Services Tender

The Council approved Tatham Engineering as the Township's consultant for engineering and infrastructure services until December 31, 2026. Additionally, the Council requested staff to report back in January 2027 with options and recommendations for future consulting services.

Replacement of Tandem Plow/Dump Combination Truck

The Council approved the purchase of a 2025 Western Star Tandem Plow/Dump Combination Truck from B&I Complete Truck Centre for $450,676.72, which includes the non-recoverable HST for the Township.

2025 Ice Storm Recovery Plan

Staff provided a high-level report delineating the timeline and activities pertaining to the State of Emergency that was enacted following the ice storm of March 30, 2025. This report provided information related to the Municipal Affairs and Housing Municipal Disaster Recovery Assistance (MDRA) program, including eligibility criteria, the status of restoration efforts, and the 2025 Ice Storm Restoration Strategy/Recovery Plan. Council approved for staff to enter into contracts to enable the restorative work and approved the waiver of the Procurement Bylaw to facilitate the implementation of the 2025 Ice Storm Restoration/Recovery Plan. Furthermore, staff were instructed to present status updates on the Restoration/Recovery Plan to Council via the Council Information Package. Staff were also granted the authority to collaborate with the Mayor or a designated representative to advocate for emergency relief funding and support from provincial, federal, and other relevant agencies as required.

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For More Information

For more details on any of these items, see the full meeting Agenda or view the meeting on the Township of Ramara's YouTube Channel.

The Meeting highlights are prepared to give residents a timely update on decisions of Council. The Council Meeting Minutes are the official record of the meeting.