Before we get into the notes I just wanted to make a point of clarification as I would like to avoid miscommunication and information being taken out of context.
The notes are what I perceive as highlights from the council meeting and are my interpretation of what I hear at the meetings and they include matters which I think the public will want to be aware of.
These notes are not fully inclusive of all items on the agenda and are not verbatim notes. If you have questions or want clarification about anything I have noted I would definitely recommend reading the official agenda first (link provided below) as well as reading the official meeting minutes when they are available. You can also watch the video recording of the council meeting to get the full context.
My intent for these posts is to keep the community informed regarding what is happening in town as I know it can be difficult to attend meetings/watch the recrodings and read through all of the agenda’s and minutes.
July 22nd, 2025
Click here for agenda
Click here for video recording of meeting.
Amy’s Highlights of the Regular Town Council Meeting
-Kim Delahunt – President, CEO, Headwaters Health Care Centre – Annual Update – Virtual Presentation. Page 42 on agenda. Councillor Jonker had a follow up question regarding whether we could have a satellite site in Grand Valley. Ms. Delahunt said unfortunatley not and this is a provincial restriction. Deputy Mayor Rentsch asked about the MRI machine funding. Deputy Mayor Rentsch also asked about services coming to the community hub in Grand Valley. Councillor Latam asked if a conversation has happened with the province regarding funding models for primary care physicians.
-Rachell McCrone – 10 William Street – Request for Broader Commercial Uses- Page 42 on Agenda. Before the conversation was opened up to council CAO Townsend spoke and let council know that typically in this situation it would be brought forward to staff first as a pre-consultation and application and not the council first as a delegation.
-Public Question-Martin and Marina Ankner – Safety – Crosswalk – Highway 25 at Bridge-Page 52 on Agenda. Council discussed and said that they have discussed this previously, Councillor Dart talked about the location not being ideal. Council received the correspondence and they do have a note for the 2026 Budget to discuss different traffic safety measures.
-CAO Progress Update-RFP for canine control closed with no bids. CAO is connecting with invitees to
determine why they did not bid. Update to follow. Councillor Latam asked about and update regarding – CAO to investigate possibility of contracting our By-law Officer to other municipalities. Also to
report back on possible proactive enforcement and increased parking enforcement. Councillor Latam also asked if the By Law Officer could help with this project, CAO responded that he is.
Deputy Mayor Rentsch asked about-OPP Cost Recovery Model-CAO attended an engagement webinar and suggested that municipal Automated Speed Enforcement costs be deducted.
Public Works Promotion Announcement-As of June 9th. 2025, Terry Robson has been moved into the Acting Operations Supervisor position. Terry came to the town last Fall with an extensive background in
Public Works. His portfolio boasts both experience and education in the industry. Terry has demonstrated exceptional organizational and leadership qualities during his tenure with the Town.
New signage around town being installed including Gateway Signage. Councillor Jonker asked whether we could add more garbage cans on the main street to help with littering. Director Bos indicated that the littering seems to be concentrated in front of one store and he does not think another garbage can will help as it is not overflowing. Councillor Latam thanked Public Works for their efforts for the July 1st festivities. Councillor Dart asked about the replacement of damaged bollards and Director Bos indicated that he is aware and has replacement ones.
Planning-Closure of File Z01-2025 – 50 Emma Street South- Page 95 on Agenda-In January 2025, Sheldon Creek Developments submitted a zoning by-law application for a 24-unit, 5-strorey condominium development at 50 Emma Street, Grand Valley, Town File no. Z01-2025. Due to subsequent feedback received from Town Council, we decided to proceed
with an 18-unit, 4-storey condominium. This 4-storey condominium has since been approved
under file Z05-2023 previously submitted.
Recreation Update- Page 125 on agenda– Councillor Latam asked questions on the programming updated about which programs are attended by the program coordinator.
-Greta and Titch Boswell Memorial Lions Park Ball Diamond- Page 129 on agenda– The Boswell Diamond will require significant funds to upgrade the park for use as a ball diamond, clay maintenance is estimated at $10,000 to $15,000, with additional funds required for lighting infrastructure upgrades and other necessary repairs. Prior to any staff requesting funds, staff are seeking Council’s direction on the future use of the lands. Deputy Mayor Rentsch outlined his concerns with the property being complicated by being owned by 3 parties, only one of them being the town. Recreation Manager is concerned about 1 light post needing to be replaced. Councillor Latam said if the repair costs are being covered by donation then he is not concerned about deciding the future use at this time. Councillor Dart suggested the priority for a new park would be at the new ball diamond. Councillor Jonker echoed these thoughts and suggested the town put out a notice about the orientation of the new diamonds and the plan for the park. Council receives the report, they have differed the decision until the last council meeting in September.
Deputy Mayor Rentsch issued an apology to a volunteer in the community for comments he made at a Council Meeting. The comments were around a request for a donation from the Santa Claus Parade Committee.
End of my notes
Disclaimer- These are my personal notes from the meeting. The purpose of these notes is to give an update on what is happening around the Town of Grand Valley.
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