Council Highlights – August 25, 2026

During last night’s meeting, Council received an update from Tim Woods, Coordinator of the Lanark County Business Retention and Expansion (BR+E) Program. The program was recently launched to help local businesses grow, stay competitive and overcome challenges. It gathers information directly from businesses to better understand their needs and identify opportunities. The program is currently collecting information through surveys and interviews, which will continue until November 2026. Mississippi Mills businesses that would like to take part can visit www.lanarkcounty.ca/grow. Community volunteers are also encouraged to get involved by helping with interviews. To volunteer, visit the website or email twoods@lanarkcounty.ca. 

Council approved making the Mississippi Mills Fire Department’s Strategic Coordinator role a permanent full-time position. The position was originally approved as a contract role in October 2025. The Strategic Coordinator helps with emergency management, oversees activities at the Regional Training Centre (RTC), supports public fire safety education, assists with planning and grant funding. The role has improved the department’s ability to provide clear and consistent public safety information to residents.

Council proclaimed September as Big Brothers Big Sisters Month in Mississippi Mills. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lanark County helps connect young people with caring adult mentors. The organization offers one-on-one mentoring, in-school mentoring and group programs that support youth and help them build confidence and life skills. 

The tender for the 2026 sanitary sewer lining program was awarded by Council to Clean Water Works Inc. for $228,721. This annual program is paid for entirely by water and sewer users and helps reduce the amount of groundwater and stormwater entering the sanitary sewer system. Sewer lining is a cost-effective way to repair and extend the life of existing sewer pipes without replacing them, helping to keep the system in good condition and prevent future problems.  

Committee of the Whole also discussed the following items, which will be brought forward for approval at a future Council meeting:

• Consideration of a long-term lease agreement with Lanark County for a portion of the Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail, including the Almonte Alameda and the land beside the Almonte Cenotaph.
• Subdivision agreement for Weaver’s Way Phase 1B, which includes 73 units. Lanark County is responsible for reviewing and approving all subdivision plans in local municipalities.
• Quarterly reports for Development Services and Engineering, Roads and Public Works, and Recreation and Culture.

Upcoming Meetings:

• Special Council Meeting – Thursday, August 27, 2026, 10 a.m.
• Hybrid Council Meeting – Tuesday, September 1, 2026, 6 p.m. Committee of the Whole to follow Council.
• Hybrid Council Meeting – Tuesday, September 15, 2026, 6 p.m. Committee of the Whole to follow Council.