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Home My WebLink AboutMarch 19, 2026 - CouncilTHE CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF BAYHAM COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA MUNICIPAL OFFICE 56169 Heritage Line, Straffordville, ON Council Chambers – HYBRID Thursday, March 19, 2026 7:00 p.m. The March 19, 2026 Council Meeting will allow for a hybrid meeting function. You may attend in person or virtually through the live-stream on the Municipality of Bayham’s YouTube Channel 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. DISCLOSURES OF PECUNIARY INTEREST & THE GENERAL NATURE THEREOF 3. REVIEW OF ITEMS NOT LISTED ON AGENDA 4. ANNOUNCEMENTS 5. PRESENTATIONS 6. DELEGATIONS 7. ADOPTION OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING(S) A. Regular Meeting of Council held March 5, 2026 8. MOTIONS AND NOTICE OF MOTION 9. OPEN FORUM 10. RECREATION, CULTURE, TOURISM AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 10.1 Correspondence 10.1.1 Receive for Information 10.1.2 Requiring Action 10.2 Reports to Council 11. PHYSICAL SERVICES – EMERGENCY SERVICES 11.1 Correspondence 11.1.1 Receive for Information 11.1.2 Requiring Action 11.2 Reports to Council 12. DEVELOPMENT SERVICES – SUSTAINABILITY AND CONSERVATION 12.1 Correspondence 12.1.1 Receive for Information Council Agenda March 19, 2026 2 A. Notice of Decision re Minor Variance Application, COA-03/26 Vendryes B. Notice of Public Meeting re Proposed Zoning By-Law Amendment, ZBA-03/26 Beach 12.1.2 Requiring Action 12.2 Reports to Council 13. FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION 13.1 Correspondence 13.1.1 Receive for Information A. City of Ottawa re Proposed New Regulations under the Restricting Public Consumption of Illegal Substances Act B. Rideau Lakes Concerns re Alto High Speed Rail Project (Bill C-15 Budget) C. Township of Southgate re Support for Bill 21, Protect Our Food Act, 2025 D. Long Point Region Conservation Authority re Annual Report and Fiscal Statements E. Elgin County re Council Highlights dated March 10, 2026 F. Elgin County re Committee of the Whole and Council Minutes for February 24, 2026 13.1.2 Requiring Action 13.2 Reports to Council A. Report CL-03/26 by Alan Bushell, Clerk re 2026 Municipal Election Information B. Report CAO-14/26 by Thomas Thayer, CAO re Extension to Site Plan Agreement – Phil Mauer and Associates/M.G. Leasing Inc. – 56954 Eden Line, Eden (Application NO. SPA-03/23) 14. BY-LAWS A. By-law No. 2026-017 Being a by-law to delegate certain responsibilities through the restricted acts of council, known as “Lame Duck”, period for the 2026 municipal and school board election 15. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 16. OTHER BUSINESS 16.1 In Camera 16.2 Out of Camera Council Agenda March 19, 2026 3 17. BY-LAW TO CONFIRM THE PROCEEDINGS OF COUNCIL A. By-law No. 2026-018 Being a by-law to confirm all actions of Council 18. ADJOURNMENT THE CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF BAYHAM COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES MUNICIPAL OFFICE 56169 Heritage Line, Straffordville, ON Council Chambers – HYBRID Thursday, March 5, 2026 7:00 p.m. The March 5, 2026 Council Meeting was held using hybrid technologies via Zoom and livestreamed on YouTube. PRESENT: MAYOR ED KETCHABAW DEPUTY MAYOR RAINEY WEISLER *via zoom COUNCILLORS TIMOTHY EMERSON DAN FROESE ABSENT: SUSAN CHILCOTT STAFF PRESENT: CAO THOMAS THAYER CLERK ALAN BUSHELL TREASURER LORNE JAMES PLANNING COORDINATOR / DEPUTY CLERK MARGARET UNDERHILL 1. CALL TO ORDER Mayor Ketchabaw called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m. 2. DISCLOSURES OF PECUNIARY INTEREST & THE GENERAL NATURE THEREOF No disclosures of pecuniary interest declared. 3. REVIEW OF ITEMS NOT LISTED ON AGENDA CAO Thayer noted an amendment to the closed meeting exceptions for Item 16.1 B. The second exception (“a position, plan, procedure, criteria, or instruction to be applied to any negotiations on or to be carried on by or on behalf of the Municipality or Local Board”) is to be removed. 4. ANNOUNCEMENTS 5. PRESENTATIONS 6. DELEGATIONS 7. ADOPTION OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING(S) A. Regular Meeting of Council held February 19, 2026 Moved by: Councillor Emerson Seconded by: Councillor Froese Council Agenda March 5, 2026 2 THAT the minutes from the Regular Meeting of Council held February 19, 2026 be approved as presented. CARRIED 8. MOTIONS AND NOTICE OF MOTION 9. OPEN FORUM 10. RECREATION, CULTURE, TOURISM AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 10.1 Correspondence 10.1.1 Receive for Information 10.1.2 Requiring Action 10.2 Reports to Council 11. PHYSICAL SERVICES – EMERGENCY SERVICES 11.1 Correspondence 11.1.1 Receive for Information 11.1.2 Requiring Action 11.2 Reports to Council A. Report FR-02/26 by Harry Baranik, Fire Chief / CEMC re 2025 Annual Fire and emergency Services Report Moved by: Councillor Emerson Seconded by: Councillor Froese THAT Report FR-02/26 re 2025 Annual Fire and Emergency Services Report be received for information. CARRIED B. Report PS-02/26 by Steve Adams, Manager of Public Works / Drainage Superintendent re 2025 Annual Drinking Water and Compliance Summary Moved by: Councillor Emerson Seconded by: Councillor Froese THAT Report PS-02/26 re 2025 Annual Drinking Water and Compliance Summary Reporting – Bayham and Richmond Water Systems be received for information. CARRIED 12. DEVELOPMENT SERVICES – SUSTAINABILITY AND CONSERVATION 12.1 Correspondence 12.1.1 Receive for Information Council Agenda March 5, 2026 3 A. Notice of Decision re Minor Variance, COA-01/26 Beuckert B. Notice of Decision re Minor Variance, COA-02/26 Tatar C. Notice of Passing re Zoning By-law No. Z820-2026 Neufeld D. Notice of Passing re Zoning By-law No. Z821-2026 Wall E. Notice of Passing re Zoning By-law No. Z822-2026 Guenther F. Notice of Public Meeting re Minor Variance, COA-03/26 Vendryes Moved by: Deputy Mayor Weisler Seconded by: Councillor Froese THAT items 12.1.1 A – F be received for information. CARRIED 12.1.2 Requiring Action 12.2 Reports to Council A. Report DR-02/26 by Steve Adams, Manager of Public Works / Drainage Superintendent re Little Jerry Creek Drain – Major Improvement – Section 78 Request Moved by: Councillor Froese Seconded by: Deputy Mayor Weisler THAT Report DR-02/26 re Major Improvement – Little Jerry Creek Drain – Capital Item No. PW-34 be received for information; AND THAT Council wishes to proceed with major improvements to the Little Jerry Creek Drain and appoints Spriet Associates Ltd., Engineers, to prepare a report on the proposed drainage area pursuant to Section 5 and Section 8(1) of the Drainage Act, for Council’s consideration. CARRIED B. Report DR-03/26 by Steve Adams, Manager of Public Works / Drainage Superintendent re Bartley Drain Smith Branch Extension – Major Improvement – Section 78 Request Moved by: Councillor Emerson Seconded by: Councillor Froese THAT Report DR-03/26 re Major Improvement – Bartley Drain Smith Branch Extension be received for information; AND THAT Council wishes to proceed with major improvements to the Bartley Drain Council Agenda March 5, 2026 4 Smith Branch and appoints Spriet Associates Ltd., Engineers, to prepare a report on the proposed drainage area pursuant to Section 5 and Section 8(1) of the Drainage Act, for Council’s consideration. CARRIED C. Report DS-09/26 by Margaret Underhill, Planning Coordinator/Deputy Clerk re Consent Application E21-26 Hodgson and Jakucinskas, 56649 Heritage Line Moved by: Councillor Emerson Seconded by: Deputy Mayor Weisler THAT Report DS-09/26 regarding the Consent Application E21-26 submitted by Lenard Hodgson & Ramona Jakucinskas be received; AND THAT Council recommends approval to the Elgin County Land Division Committee that Consent Application E21-26 which would facilitate the severance for the creation of a new lot, subject to the following conditions and considerations: 1. That the Owner installs a new private well on the proposed severed lot providing the Municipality with a Well Record showing the water quantity and water quality reports for bacteria and nitrates content meeting the Provincial standards for residential use, as a matter of public health and safety. 2. That the Owner obtains all required permits from the Municipality and County and installs a new municipal sanitary service connection to the proposed severed lot. 3. That the Owner provides confirmation of an approved County of Elgin Road Access permit. 4. That the Owner provides an engineered stamped grading and storm water management plan for the severed parcel demonstrating that the lot will drain properly with no negative impacts on the neighboring lands or the street, all to the satisfaction of the Municipality and the County of Elgin. 5. That the Owner applies and pays all fees to the Municipality with respect to civic addressing/ signage for the severed lot. 6. That the Owner pays fees as required in Municipal By-law No. 2025-007 Cash-in-lieu of Parkland to the Municipality. 7. That the Owner provides a Planning Report Fee payable to the Municipality upon the granting of the consent. 8. That the Owner provides a digital copy of the final survey to the Municipality. CARRIED 13. FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION Council Agenda March 5, 2026 5 13.1 Correspondence 13.1.1 Receive for Information A. Elgin County Council re Highlights – February 24, 2026 B. Elgin County Council re Committee of the Whole Minutes – February 10, 2026 C. Elgin County Council re Regular Council Meeting Minutes – February 10, 2026 D. Township of Perry re Reduced Rate Distribution of Library Resources E. Ontario Public Works Association (OPWA) re 2026 Committee and Board of Directors F. Top Aggregate Producing Municipalities of Ontario (TAPMO) re Newsletter 2026 Moved by: Councillor Emerson Seconded by: Councillor Froese THAT items 13.1.1 A – F be received for information. CARRIED 13.1.2 Requiring Action 13.2 Reports to Council A. Report TR-11/26 by Lorne James, Treasurer re Short Term Investment Strategies Moved by: Councillor Emerson Seconded by: Councillor Froese THAT Report TR-11/26 re Short-Term Investment Strategies be received for information; AND THAT staff be directed to purchase 1-year GICs from the Royal Bank of Canada for all investment accounts, including those of the Calton and Straffordville cemetery boards. CARRIED B. Report CAO-10/26 by Thomas Thayer, CAO re Site Plan Agreement - Dujardin Moved by: Councillor Froese Seconded by: Deputy Mayor Weisler THAT Report CAO-10/26 re Site Plan Agreement – Lucien and Connie Elizabeth Dujardin – 56149 Glen Erie Line, Port Burwell (Application No. SPA-08/25) be received for information. Council Agenda March 5, 2026 6 CARRIED 14. BY-LAWS 15. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 16. OTHER BUSINESS 16.1 In Camera A. Confidential Item re Advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose; a position, plan, procedure, criteria, or instruction to be applied to any negotiations on or to be carried on by or on behalf of the Municipality or Local Board (License Agreement) B. Confidential Item re Advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose; (Lighthouse) C. Confidential Item re Labour relations, employee negotiations; a position, plan, procedure, criteria, or instruction to be applied to any negotiations on or to be carried on by or on behalf of the Municipality or Local Board (Recruitment) D. Confidential Item re Personal matters about an identifiable individual (CAO Performance Evaluation) Moved by: Councillor Emerson Seconded by: Councillor Froese THAT the Council do now rise to enter into an “In Camera” Session at 8:16 p.m. to discuss: A. Confidential Item re Advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose; a position, plan, procedure, criteria, or instruction to be applied to any negotiations on or to be carried on by or on behalf of the Municipality or Local Board (License Agreement) B. Confidential Item re Advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose (Lighthouse) C. Confidential Item re Labour relations, employee negotiations; a position, plan, procedure, criteria, or instruction to be applied to any negotiations on or to be carried on by or on behalf of the Municipality or Local Board (Recruitment) D. Confidential Item re Personal matters about an identifiable individual (CAO Performance Evaluation) CARRIED 16.2 Out of Camera Moved by: Councillor Emerson Council Agenda March 5, 2026 7 Seconded by: Deputy Mayor Weisler THAT the Council do now rise from the “In Camera” Session at 10:39 pm and report on: - Confidential Item re Advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose; a position, plan, procedure, criteria, or instruction to be applied to any negotiations on or to be carried on by or on behalf of the Municipality or Local Board (Licence Agreement) - Advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose (Lighthouse). - Confidential Item re Labour relations, employee negotiations; a position, plan, procedure, criteria, or instruction to be applied to any negotiations on or to be carried on by or on behalf of the Municipality or Local Board (Recruitment) - Confidential Item re Personal matters about an identifiable individual (CAO Performance Evaluation) CARRIED Moved by: Councillor Froese Seconded by: Councillor Emerson THAT the following Confidential Items be received for information: Confidential Item re Advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose; a position, plan, procedure, criteria, or instruction to be applied to any negotiations on or to be carried on by or on behalf of the Municipality or Local Board (License Agreement); Labour relations, employee negotiations; a position, plan, procedure, criteria, or instruction to be applied to any negotiations on or to be carried on by or on behalf of the Municipality or Local Board (Recruitment) AND THAT staff proceed as directed. CARRIED Moved by: Councillor Emerson Seconded by: Councllor Froese THAT Confidential Item re Advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose (Lighthouse) be received for information; AND THAT staff proceed as directed. CARRIED Moved by: Councillor Emerson Seconded by: Counicllor Froese Council Agenda March 5, 2026 8 THAT Confidential Item re Personal matters about an identifiable individual (CAO Performance Evaluation) be received for information; AND THAT the Mayor proceed as directed. CARRIED 17. BY-LAW TO CONFIRM THE PROCEEDINGS OF COUNCIL A. By-law No. 2026-016 Being a by-law to confirm all actions of Council Moved by: Deputy Mayor Weisler Seconded by: Counicllor Emerson THAT By-law No. 2026-016 be read a first, second, and third time and finally passed CARRIED 18. ADJOURNMENT Moved by: Councillor Froese Seconded by: Deputy Mayor Weisler THAT the Council meeting be adjourned at 10:41 p.m. CARRIED MAYOR CLERK ZBA-03/26 REVISED NOTICE OF A PUBLIC MEETING CONCERNING A PROPOSED ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF BAYHAM APPLICANT: DEANNA BEACH LOCATION: 55695 LIGHT LINE, VIENNA TAKE NOTICE that the Municipality of Bayham has received a complete application for a proposed Zoning By-law Amendment (ZBA-03/26). AND TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Corporation of the Municipality of Bayham will hold a public meeting on Thursday, March 19th, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. in the Municipal Council Chambers, 56169 Heritage Line, Straffordville, to consider a proposed Zoning By-law Amendment under Section 34 of the Planning Act. Public Planning Meetings may be viewed virtually through the live-stream on the Municipality of Bayham’s YouTube Channel THE PURPOSE of this By-law Amendment is to rezone the subject property from a ‘Agricultural 1 (A1)’ Zone to a ‘Site Specific Agricultural (A1-XX)’ Zone to permit a Dog Kennel. The subject property is known as 55695 Light Line, south side. THE EFFECT of this By-law is to permit the use of an existing barn on the subject lands to be used for a dog kennel. ANY PERSON may attend the public meeting and/or make a written or verbal representation in support of or in opposition to the proposed amendment. Written comments submitted on or before 12:00 Noon on Wednesday, March 11th, 2026 to munderhill@bayham.on.ca or at the municipal office will be included in the public meeting agenda. IF A PERSON OR PUBLIC BODY does not make oral submissions at a public meeting or make written submissions to the Municipality of Bayham before the by-law is passed, the person or public body is not entitled to appeal the decision of the Council of the Corporation of the Municipality of Bayham to the Ontario Land Tribunal. IF A PERSON OR PUBLIC BODY does not make oral submissions at a public meeting, or make written submissions to the Municipality of Bayham before the by-law is passed, the person or public body may not be added as a party to the hearing of an appeal before the Ontario Land Tribunal unless, in the opinion of the Tribunal, there are reasonable grounds to do so. IF YOU WISH to be notified of the adoption of the proposed amendment, you must make a written request to the undersigned. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION relating to the proposed amendment may be obtained at the Municipal Office. Dated at the Municipality of Bayham this 27th day of February 2026. Margaret Underhill Planning Coordinator/Deputy Clerk Municipality of Bayham 56169 Heritage Line, P.O. Box 160 Straffordville, ON, N0J 1Y0 T: 519-866-5521 Ext 222 F: 519-866-3884 E: munderhill@bayham.on.ca W: www.bayham.on.ca March 10, 2026 Dear Senator, Re: Rideau Lakes Concerns re Alto High Speed Rail Project (Bill C-15 Budget) We in Rideau Lakes Township are writing this letter because of major concerns about the Alto High Speed Rail Project (HSR), as well as a request to fully evaluate our concerns of Bill C-15 in relation to Alto HSR and expropriation of land. The Alto HSR is lacking full and meaningful consultation of critical information for the early design and development phase. We recognize that having this information is important to the engineers in determining routes that minimize disruptions to the communities, residents, businesses, farmland, waterways, environment, and ecosystems that they pass through. What we have experienced is less than adequate information upon which to base our ability to conduct impact assessments involving our rural communities, agriculture, businesses, and countless heritage buildings and monuments. Alto’s recently proposed Southern Ontario route included a 10 km wide corridor, and they provided high-level maps which are not useful in determining the impacts which more detailed route maps would give us and that are vital to our informed feedback. Without more information from Alto, this reduces our more local and valuable ability to provide critical information to Alto planners and engineers. HSR will divide communities. There will be a major impact on our roadways for school buses, public transportation and emergency vehicles given the many closed roadways when fences are erected along the HSR route. This will increase mortality and morbidity as it will take longer to receive timely care. Farther to travel will also increase emissions and costs for plowing and road maintenance. Without more information from Alto, this reduces our local and valuable ability to provide critical information to Alto planners and engineers. The Southern route would traverse the UNESCO recognized Frontenac Arch Biosphere Region, the ancestral lands of the Haudenosaunee (Kanienʼkehá꞉ka) and Anishinaabeg (Algonquin); where a land bridge of the Canadian Shield connects the Algonquin and Laurentian Highlands to the Adirondack Mountains in the USA. Many animals use this migration route in both directions every year, and unless wildlife corridors are included in the ALTO plans, this would cut off their migration. This does not begin to speak to the negative impact on tourism which is estimated in the order of $30 million for the UNESCO Rideau Canal system from Ottawa to Kingston. Another major concern is that the government proposes to grant Alto, as a Crown Corporation, the right to 3 methods of property expropriation! Until now the government itself held the right to a single method of property expropriation. This causes our residents varying degrees of stress ranging to mental anguish if their properties are affected and they will not get full current market value if they decided to sell. Under the new proposed legislation, they would be forced to sell to the Corporation! This is of particular concern to many potentially affected property owners who are in the business of farming and feeding our population. Cost analysis to build the railway in the northern and southern routes has not been done. We have also been told that a route parallel to the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario is not viable. We do not have enough information to understand why this option is not viable. Rideau Lakes Township is asking you, and your Senate colleagues, to undertake your considered review of our concerns that are being sent to you for First Reading. We hope that you will see that this portion of Bill-C15 (HSR and expropriation) is premature, given that there are many unanswered questions and important issues have not been adequately addressed in the information provided. There has been inadequate public consultation to move to the development stage of this generationally important Canadian transportation project affecting so many lives along whatever corridor may eventually be approved. Should the Senate determine that a delegation to a Senate committee be appropriate with a view to consolidating recommendations for changes that would go back to the House of Commons, we would be available to participate, of course upon invitation. Thank you for your attention in this very important matter affecting all of us here and across Ontario! It would be very much appreciated if I could receive a response in order to brief my Council. Yours respectfully, Arie Hoogenboom Mayor, Rideau Lakes Township mayor@rideaulakes.ca 613-323-0901 Cc: Prime Minister of Canada All Members of Parliament All Provincial Cabinet Ministers MPP Steve Clark The Federation of Canadian Municipalities The Association of Municipalities of Ontario All Ontario Municipalities 1 | P a g e Township of Southgate Phone: 519-923-2110 Administration Office Toll Free: 1-888-560-6607 185667 Grey County Road 9, RR 1 Fax: 519-923-9262 Dundalk, ON N0C 1B0 Web: www.southgate.ca February 20, 2026 Re: Township of Southgate – Support for Bill 21, Protect Our Food Act, 2025 Please be advised that at the February 18, 2026, regular Council meeting, the Council of the Corporation of the Township of Southgate, approved the following: No. 2026-073 Moved By Councillor Shipston Seconded By Councillor Ferguson WHEREAS arable land is a critical finite resource; and WHEREAS Ontario loses as much as 319 acres of farmland a day; and WHEREAS Ontario’s farmland provides food, fiber and fuel to all of Ontario and beyond; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Council of the Township of Southgate support Bill 21, Protect Our Food Act, 2025 and strongly urges the provincial government to support this and every measure t protect our farmland, to aggressively prevent further losses and to ensure the future of agriculture in Ontario for future generations; and That a copy of this resolution be sent to the Premier of Ontario, the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness, the Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, the Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, MPP Paul Vickers, Senator Rob Black, the Ontario Federation of Agriculture, the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, and all Municipalities in Ontario. If you have any questions, please contact our office at (519) 923-2110. Sincerely, Lindsey Green, Clerk Township of Southgate 2 | P a g e CC: Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario Honourable Trevor Jones, Minister of Agriculture Food and Agribusiness Honourable Todd McCarthy, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks Honourable Rob Flack, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs Honourable Victor Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade MPP Paul Vickers – Bruce – Grey – Owen Sound Senator Rob Black Ontario Federation of Agriculture Association of Municipalities of Ontario Municipalities in Ontario March 12, 2026 Thomas Thayer, CAO Municipality of Bayham 56169 Heritage Line PO Box 160 Straffordville ON N0J 1Y0 Email: tthayer@bayham.on.ca Attention: Mr. Thayer Dear Members of Council, Residents, and Ratepayers, The Long Point Region Conservation Authority held our Annual General Meeting on Friday March 6, 2026 and I am pleased to inform the Authority had another successful year in 2025. The Annual Report highlights the activities of the Authority for the year 2025. The Authority issued 222 planning permits, consulted on 123 municipal applications, and participated in 20 pre-consultations. We treated 11 of our forest tracts (717 acres) for a range of invasive species with a focus in 2025 on Hemlock Woolly Adelgid with over 4,000 Hemlock trees treated. We funded one erosion control project and 1,609 acres of cover crops on landowners’ properties, and planted 39,740 trees throughout the watershed. The Teeterville Dam Class Environmental Assessment is in the final phase with the preferred alternative of repairing the dam selected. We celebrated the completion of the multi-year Conservation Education Centre Revitalization project at the Backus Heritage Conservation Area, ensuring environmental education for students in the watershed can continue for years to come in an updated space. LPRCA was successful in securing a multi-year commitment of over $1.1 million in federal funding from the Canada Water Agency for reducing phosphorus loading in the Big Otter Creek sub-watershed and for the decommissioning of the Vittoria Dam. Our Flood Forecasting & Warning team issued 12 flood messages over five events in partnership with our municipal emergency management teams. Financially, the Authority ended 2025 in a positive financial position. The 2025 LPRCA financial statements, audited by MNP LLP of London, and a copy of our 2025 Annual Report highlighting the programs, services, and accomplishments the Authority achieved in 2025 are attached. On behalf of the Long Point Region Conservation Authority Board of Directors, I would like to thank you for your continued support of the Authority. Yours truly, Judy Maxwell, CPA, CGA General Manager/Secretary-Treasurer CC.Meagan Elliott, Clerk Attachment 1: 2025 Annual Report Attachment 2: 2025 LPRCA financial statements Hard Copies sent by mail 2025 Long Point Region Conservation AuthorityAnnual Report Table of Contents 2 Message from the Chair & General Manager............... 3Protecting Life & Property..........................................4 Flood Forecasting & WarningSource Water Protection Engineering & InfrastructurePlanning & RegulationsEnhancing Watershed Health......................................7 Stewardship Programs Invasive Species ControlForest Management & Land HoldingsWater Quality MonitoringConnecting People to Nature.....................................11 Backhouse Historic SiteEducation ProgrammingConservation AreasCommunity RelationsChildren’s Fishing Derby Leighton & Betty Brown ScholarshipConservation Stewardship AwardMemorial Forest........................................................16Meet the Authority.....................................................17 Facts & Figures.........................................................19 3 Message from the Chair & General Manager Dave BeresChair, LPRCA Board of Directors Judy MaxwellGeneral Manager, LPRCA 2025 was a year full of accomplishments worth celebrating in the Long Point Region watershed. On behalf of the Board of Directors and sta, we are proud to showcase these accomplishments in the 2025 Annual Report. LPRCA was successful in securing a multi-year commitment of over $1.1 million in federal funding from the Canada Water Agency’s Great Lakes Freshwater Ecosystem Initiative towards reducing phosphorus loading in the Big Otter Creek sub-watershed and advancing the decommissioning of the Vittoria Dam. We celebrated the completion of the multi-year Conservation Education Centre Revitalization project at Backus Heritage Conservation Area, ensuring environmental education for students in the watershed can continue on for years to come in an updated space. Sta continue to make signiﬁcant progress on several studies and mapping projects, safety improvements at our ﬂood control structures, upgrades to our campgrounds and conservation areas, and multiple capital projects. Change has remained constant for Conservation Authorities, and 2025 was no dierent. The Province announced the creation of a new governing agency and the proposed amalgamation of 36 Conservation Authorities into seven regional authorities. Although the detailed framework of the proposed amalgamation has yet to be released, the Board of Directors and management will be proceeding forward with the best interests of our watershed residents, member municipalities and sta. LPRCA’s vision and mission has remained clear. The Authority continues to work together to shape the future well-being of our watershed by delivering excellent services; protecting, advancing and rejuvenating the watershed; and optimizing the health and well-being of the watershed through education and best practices. Thank you to the Board of Directors for their support and to sta for all of their hard work and dedication that ensured meaningful progress continued. Protecting Life & PropertyFlood Forecasting & Warning In 2025, the Long Point Region watershed experienced a total of ﬁve ﬂood-related events with sta issuing 12 messages during the events. LPRCA also monitors low water levels by measuring precipitation, stream ﬂow and groundwater levels. With consultation and support from the Joint Water Response Team, one Level 1 Low Water Advisory was issued in August 2025 asking users to voluntarily reduce water usage by 10%. The advisory remained in place until mid-December. 20242025 Water Conditions Statements Flood Watches Flood Warnings 6 2 3 7 4 1 LPRCA’s Flood Forecasting and Warning team works on rotation 24/7/365 to fulfill Conservation Authorities’ core mandate of protecting people and property from natural hazards. The team monitors both lake and riverine conditions across the watershed and with coordination with municipal emergency response sta, delivers flood-related messages to the public for storm events. The messages are also relayed to LPRCA’s website and posted to all LPRCA social media channels. Source Water ProtectionThe Grand River Conservation Authority manages the source water program for the Lake Erie Source Protection Region which includes Long Point, Grand River, Catﬁsh Creek and Kettle Creek Conservation Authorities. In compliance with the Clean Water Act, 2006 a plan to protect the sources of municipal drinking water is in place for each watershed. The Long Point Region Source Protection Plan has been in eect since 2015 and addresses risks related to contamination and overuse. In accordance with Ontario Regulation 287/07, section 52, the Long Point Region Source Protection Authority submits annual progress reports to the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) on the progress made in implementing our Source Protection Plan. The Section 36 update to the Assessment Report and Source Water Protection Plan for Long Point Region was released for consultation with implementing bodies and the public and closed on December 19, 2025. The update for the plan is due for submission to MECP on December 31, 2026. 4 Engineering & Infrastructure A Conservation Ontario Class Environmental Assessment (EA) was initiated for Teeterville Dam. LPRCA held Public Information Centres in February and June. Based on a weighted evaluation, the preferred alternative is to repair the dam. Repairing the dam will resolve the stability issues, improve still-water habitat and recreational opportunities, retain emergency ﬁre water supply and maintain the historic visual character of the site. The EA process is in the ﬁnal phase for Teeterville Dam. Teeterville Dam. • A Public Safety Boom was installed at Norwich Dam;• A Dam Safety Review (DSR) was completed on Deer Creek Dam;• A design report for repairs was completed for Hay Creek Dam; • A design brief was prepared for proposed structure alterations and channel realignment at Sutton Dam; and• A DSR commenced on Lehman Dam. Norwich Dam Safety Boom. In 2025, LPRCA was successful in securing $635,000 in federal funding over four years from the Canada Water Agency as part of the Great Lakes Freshwater Ecosystem Initiative to support the Vittoria Dam decommissioning. The funding will support restoring the ecological connectivity to Young’s Creek while improving Lake Erie nearshore water quality. A kick-o meeting was held with Canada Water Agency to start the planning process for the decommissioning. Sta performing dam inspection. Other Projects: Teeterville Dam Vittoria Dam 5 Planning & Regulations To aid LPRCA's planning and ﬂood forecasting and warning sta, updates were made to LPRCA's hydrology model that will enable new and updated ﬂood and erosion hazard mapping for 46km of Nanticoke Creek and 32km of Upper Big Creek. Nanticoke Creek mapping will be ﬁnalized in 2026 and Upper Big Creek will be completed in 2027. 20242025 Permit Applications Issued Municipal Applications Reviewed and Comments Provided Formal Pre-consultation Meetings 198 84 14 222 123 20 In 2025, LPRCA issued 222 permits with the following average turnaround times: Minor Applications: 4.7 daysMajor Applications: 5.6 days Updated interactive regulation mapping. LPRCA is responsible for regulating development in natural hazard areas to protect people, property and the environment from damage due to ﬂooding, erosion and other natural hazards. Regulating development also aids in the protection of natural features including rivers, streams, ﬂoodplains, wetlands, valley lands and the Lake Erie Shoreline. LPRCA completed a comprehensive update to regulation mapping which reﬂects new ﬂoodplain and hazard mapping studies and new topographic information. Additional updates to LPRCA’s regulation mapping were made to ensure alignment with the updated provincial legislation, Ontario Regulation 41/24: Prohibited Activities, Exemptions and Permits. LPRCA held a consultation period for the draft mapping, giving the public an opportunity to submit comments/feedback. Following the consultation, the comprehensive mapping update was ﬁnalized and approved by the Board of Directors in December of 2025. In accordance with the new Regulation, LPRCA will proceed with updating mapping annually. 6 Stewardship ProgramsEnhancing Watershed Health LPRCA’s stewardship programs help residents preserve and enhance their property through best management practices (BMP). Projects such as cover crops, planting trees, restoring land, erosion control and rural water quality programs beneﬁt the watershed’s health by decreasing sediment and nutrient loading, restoring the natural hydrology, habitat restoration and improving biodiversity. In 2025, LPRCA was successful in securing a federal funding commitment of $512,000 over four years from the Canada Water Agency as part of the Great Lakes Freshwater Ecosystem Initiative. This funding will support eorts to reduce phosphorus loading in the Big Otter Creek sub-watershed through the implementation of BMP. LPRCA is working closely with private landowners and farmers to implement these programs. To raise awareness and encourage participation, sta distributed program brochures throughout the rural areas of the sub-watershed and hosted a public information session. Through Forests Canada’s 50 Million Program and Ontario Power Generation’s Regional Biodiversity Program, LPRCA facilitated the planting of 39,740 trees (seedlings/seeds). ALUS Norfolk coordinated funding from Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Integrated Conservation Action Plan to help fund 1,609 acres of cover crops and one erosion control project on private lands. The Invasive Phragmites Control Fund provided funding to treat Phragmites within the Lee Brown Marsh Waterfowl Management Area. In October, LPRCA hosted Forests Canada Fall Partner Delivery Agency ﬁeld tour event. The tour highlighted four restoration sites around the watershed where attendees were able to discuss best practices when facilitating a restoration. Scouts Canada and LPRCA tree planting event. Forests Canada and OPG funded tree planting site at Backus Heritage CA. 7 Invasive Species Control In 2025, forestry sta treated 717 acres across 11 properties, concentrating on the following species, Multi-ﬂora Rose, Garlic Mustard, Buckthorn, Autumn Olive, Manitoba Maple, Japanese Knotweed, Norway Maple, Phragmites and Periwinkle, among others. LPRCA forestry sta will continue to treat for invasive species and monitor for new threats to the watershed. Landowner HWA ﬁeld tour, discussing eDNA traps. With funding support from the Invasive Species Centre Council, LPRCA forestry sta installed environmental DNA (eDNA) traps across LPRCA properties to monitor for Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA). Sta were then able to analyze caught HWA specimens under a microscope to conﬁrm its presence in forest tracts. This is a cost eective method for monitoring the early detection of HWA on LPRCA forest tracts. Forestry sta examining eDNA samples. HWA treatment/prevention. Forestry sta held a ﬁeld tour for local private landowners and partners on the identiﬁcation and treatment options for HWA. In 2025, a total of 7,984 Hemlock trees were inventoried with over 4,000 treated for Hemlock Woolly Adelgid throughout six forest tracts. The following LPRCA properties have tested positive for HWA and have been conﬁrmed positive by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency – Haldimand CA, Harvey Tract and Coppens/Ferris/Armstrong Tract. Emergency use of Xytect 2F and Starkle has been extended for Ontario, allowing treatment of HWA to continue. LPRCA’s goal is to continue working with partners and private landowners to monitor and ﬁght against HWA in the watershed. 8 Forest Management & Land Holdings LPRCA uses good forestry practices to maintain the Authority’s commitment of sustainable forest management that enhances the biodiversity and health of the watershed while balancing social, economic and environmental values. LPRCA owns over 11,000 acres of land including 90 forest tracts, over 7,500 acres of managed forest tracts, 1,145 acres of protected & classiﬁed natural heritage woodlands, and 800 acres of uplands and marsh. Protecting the watershed’s forests and the management of them is guided by LPRCA’s Forest Management Plan 2020-2039. Annually, LPRCA retains an ecologist to complete ecological surveys on forested properties proposed for timber harvest. A total of ﬁve properties were surveyed in 2025 and data was documented for Species at Risk, Species of Conservation Concern, rare vegetation communities and invasive species. The surveys are to ensure that the species are protected in accordance with the Endangered Species Act. On an annual basis, sta prepares prescriptions/operating plans for each individual tract that will receive some form of silvicultural treatment. Following Board approval, the forest tracts are marked and tendered for revenue. In 2025, there were four tenders awarded. In 2025, forestry sta worked with the Rued Grouse Society to create habitat on one of LPRCA’s properties. Forestry sta hosted a tour for the Sustainable Forestry Initiative group in October, where they visited logging operations and forest tracts that have been treated for Hemlock Woolly Adelgid. Sta also attended the Ontario (Norfolk) Woodlot Owners Association meeting where they set up an informational booth for community outreach. Forestry sta measuring a tulip tree. LPRCA Forest Tract. 9 LPRCA also monitors the region’s stream health by collecting samples using the protocol under the Ontario Benthos Bio-monitoring Network (OBBN). LPRCA gathered benthic invertebrate samples from 15 separate sites around the watershed and sent them for identiﬁcation following OBBN guidelines once the invertebrates were sorted by LPRCA sta. The LPRCA team also worked with Norfolk County sta, with funding from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, to classify seven unrated drains. This is done by identifying ﬁsh species (through the practice of electroﬁshing), identifying dierent plant species and assessing ﬂows within the watercourses. Water Quality Monitoring As a mandatory program and service, Phosphorus sensor installation. LPRCA monitors surface and ground water quality throughout the Long Point Region watershed. The Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) oversees the Provincial (Stream) Water Quality Monitoring Network (PWQMN) and the Provincial Ground Monitoring Network (PGMN). Samples are collected throughout the year and sent for testing for parameters such as chloride, nutrients and metals. In 2025, samples for PWQMN were collected eight times at ten dierent locations. Ground water quality testing for PGMN is completed annually through a process of water collection from any of LPRCA’s 11 sampling wells. The information collected by analyzing these samples are added to a provincial dataset and uploaded to the MECP website. With funding provided from the federal government as part of the Great Lakes Freshwater Ecosystems Initiative, LPRCA purchased a phosphorus sensor to monitor phosphorus concentrations in the Big Otter Creek. Big Otter Creek, Tillsonburg, ON. 10 Backhouse Historic Site Education Programming Connecting People to Nature In 2025, the Conservation Education Centre multi-year revitalization project was completed and reopened to the public on June 21, 2025. The Education Centre hosted just over 2,000 visitors over the course of the summer. The revitalization project would not have been possible without the generous support from individuals, community groups, displaying partners, community foundations, and federal grants. In 2025, LPRCA’s education programming welcomed 3,900 students from two local school boards and out-of-contract classes from around the watershed. The interactive heritage and outdoor education programs encourage the community to connect with the environment and heritage of the watershed. The Backhouse Historic Site welcomed approximately 1,000 visitors who enjoyed immersive period demonstrations throughout the village, including tinsmithing, traditional school lessons, historic games, and hands-on crafts. Guests also enjoyed the Field to Flour/Field to Fabric event, witnessing wheat transformed into ﬂour and ﬁbres into fabric. The Norfolk Fibre Arts Guild showcased the art of ﬁbre spinning both during the event and throughout the season in the Community Hall. Visitors were also able to explore the Backhouse Mill through guided tours. Additionally, the War of 1812 Re-Enactment returned as another highly successful weekend ﬁlled with engaging interpretation and family-friendly fun. Field to Flour/Field to Fabric event. Conservation Education Centre, Backus Heritage Conservation Area. Port Rowan, ON. 11 Leighton & Betty Brown Scholarship Conservation Stewardship Award The Leighton & Betty Brown Scholarship honours Leighton, former LPRCA employee, and Betty, Leighton’s wife, who both spent their lives contributing to waterfowl management. For nearly two decades, the Lee Brown Marsh Management Committee and LPRCA have been awarding the Leighton & Betty Brown scholarship to students within the watershed that demonstrate a passion for nature and are pursuing their passion in post-secondary school. In 2025, the $1,000 scholarship was awarded to William Culford to help support his upcoming full-time studies in the Fish & Wildlife Technology program at Fleming College. Lee Brown Marsh Aerial Photo, courtesy of Earl Hartlen. Lee Brown Marsh Management Committee with scholarship recipient. Lou Kociuk, William Culford, Doug Brunton, Tom Haskett, Larry Chanda. 12 Conservation Stewardship Award Je Tribe and Paul Gagnon on Tribe’s tree plant site. The LPRCA Conservation Stewardship Award is awarded annually to an individual or group for their contribution to the natural heritage within the Long Point Region watershed. This year’s recipient, Je Tribe of Oxford County, is a journalist, photographer, videographer and content creator who is passionate about the environment. Je, with the help of Ducks Unlimited Canada, facilitated a wetland restoration project on the Tribe Family Farm resulting in 1.4 acres of newly created wetland, including 2 wetland cells, several smaller water features and 8.9 acres of surrounding upland habitat. Around the wetland, Je planted 450 trees and shrubs. Most recently, Je planted another 550 trees on the farm through Forests Canada’s 50 Million Tree Planting Program. 13 Conservation AreasThe 2025 season welcomed 8,463 nightly campers and 426 seasonal campers across LPRCA’s ﬁve campgrounds. LPRCA education sta continued to bring the educational workshop, Turtle Talk, to all ﬁve campgrounds for campers and visitors to enjoy. A new playground was installed at Waterford North CA and two day-use, reservable picnic sites were introduced to the park. Deer Creek CA later introduced one picnic site to the park after a well received trial run at Waterford North CA. Norfolk CA and Haldimand CA received washroom upgrades. The parking lots at Trout Pond, Hay Creek CA, Brooks CA, Fisher CA and Norwich CA were upgraded for visitor safety and enjoyment. Extensive renovations to Haldimand CA created 8 new campsites and upgraded 21 campsites, including improved services. New playground, Waterford North CA. Services upgrades, Haldimand CA.Haldimand CA campsite renovations, south side. Parking lot upgrades, Hay Creek CA. Turtle Talk, Backus Heritage CA Picnic site, Waterford North CA. 14 Community Relations Children’s Fishing Derby Great catch at Deer Creek CA!The 2025 Deer Creek Children’s Fishing Derby (Kids, Cops & Canadian Fishing Days) saw an increase in young anglers hitting the water with 130 participants — one of highest attendance rates since it started in 1996! This annual event would not be possible without the continuous generosity of our community donors and all of their contributions. LPRCA had a busy 2025 with lots of community outreach and involvement. The year kicked o with a collaborative presentation with Forests Canada discussing Canada’s forestry sector delivered to the senior environmental class at Holy Trinity Catholic High School by LPRCA forestry sta. The Scouts of Port Dover and the Port Rowan Girl Guides joined LPRCA for a spring tree planting session, teaching the children how to properly plant and care for trees. LPRCA had an information booth at TurtleFest, promoting what the Authority has to oer its residents. Sta participatedin ALUS Norfolk’s farm tour as aguest speaker, discussing shorelineerosion, wetlands and BankSwallows. Sta also volunteered atthe annual Children’s Water Festivaland the Carolinian Forest Festivalalongside Upper Thames CA, KettleCreek CA and Catﬁsh Creek CA. Lands & Waters sta presenting during ALUS Norfolk’s tour. Sta and Chair at LPRCA’s booth during TurtleFest. 15 Memorial Forest Dedication Service The Memorial Forest is a forest located within Backus Heritage Conservation Area meant to act as a living tribute to loved ones. A service is held annually on the third Sunday in September where donors and families are invited to remember their loved ones in the form of creating new life by expanding the forest each year in their memory. In 2025, we honoured 153 loved ones in the presence of over 100 guests. LPRCA Chair, Dave Beres, took to the podium alongside Pastor Rev. Ted Smith to deliver the service. Throughout the event, Brenda Atkinson performed a series of musical performances. Rev. Ted Smith and LPRCA Chair, Dave Beres. 16 Meet the Authority Judy Maxwell Aaron Le DucLeigh-Anne Mauthe Lorrie Minshall Saifur Rahman Chloe Anna Kim Brown Paige Burke Greg Butcher Bob Dewdney Evan Forbes Paul Gagnon Melanie Hadlock Alex Huber Brock Hussey Isabel Johnson Amanda Kaye Ryan Kindt Jessica King Curator Marsh Manager Accounting Clerk Grounds Maintenance Marsh Operations Labourer Superintendent of CAs Lands & Waters Supervisor Junior Forestry Technician Receptionist Lands & Waters Technician Resource Planner Accounting Clerk Workshop Technician Marketing & Social Media Associate Chloe Krouse Parker Landry Barry Norman Chris Reinhart Braedan Ristine Darell Rohrer Frank Schram James Shaver Jeery Smithson Jess Staton Nicole Sullivan Debbie Thain Water Resource Technician Engineering Technologist Workshop Operations Labourer Forestry Technician Resource Planner Workshop Operations Labourer Workshop Supervisor Workshop Operations Labourer Workshop Operations Labourer Heritage Programmer HR Associate/Executive Assistant Supervisor of Forestry 2025 LPRCA STAFF General Manager/Secretary-Treasurer Manager of Corporate Services Manager of Watershed Services Project Manager, Watershed Services Manager of Engineering & Infrastructure As well as our many seasonal sta and summer students. Sta Christmas tree decorating, 2025. 17 The Long Point Region Watershed 2025 Board of Directors Tom Masschaele, Chair Wanda Backus-Kelly Dave BeresDoug BruntonMary CharlesJim Palmer Trevor ShelleyHeather SmithJulie StoneMadaline WilsonPete Ypma Backus Museum Committee Tom Haskett, ChairDoug BruntonLarry ChandaMichael ColumbusLou Kociuk Lee Brown Marsh Management Committee Dave Beres, ChairDeputy Mayor Town of Tillsonburg Doug Brunton, Vice ChairCouncillor Norfolk County Tom Masschaele Councillor Norfolk County Chris Van Paassen Councillor Norfolk County Michael Columbus Councillor Norfolk CountyDebera McKeen Councillor Haldimand County Robert Chambers Councillor County of Brant Ed Ketchabaw Mayor Municipality of Bayham Jim Palmer Mayor Township of Norwich Shelley Ann Bentley Mayor Haldimand County Pete Ypma Councillor Township of South-West Oxford As a special-purpose environmental body, LPRCA works in partnership with our eight member municipalities, the provincial and federal governments, and the community to protect, restore and manage the natural heritage in the Long Point Region Watershed. The watershed is 2,782 km with 255 km of Lake Erie Shoreline and a population of approximately 100,000. LPRCA owns approximately 11,000 acres of land, 13 water-control structures and operates five campgrounds and various parkettes within the watershed. 18 Facts & Figures Financial Highlights 2025 Expenditures 2025 Revenue Use of 2025 Operating Levy Share of 2025 Operating Levy Haldimand County $324,627 15% Norfolk County $1,136,959 51% Oxford County $497,571 22% Brant County $162,960 7% Bayham Municipality $99,651 4% Malahide Township $15,913 1% Total $2,237,681 100% Municipal Levy - Operating 2,237,681$ 31% Municipal Levy - Capital 182,638$ 3% Provincial Funding 35,229$ 0% Fees 4,301,177$ 59% Forestry Sales 533,965$ 7% Gain on Sale of Assets 17,108$ 0% Total 7,307,798$ 100% Planning and Watershed Services 1,346,148$ 22% Backus Heritage CA/Education/Heritage 415,304$ 7% Maintenance Operations Services 951,021$ 16% Forestry Services 403,830$ 7% Conservation Parks 1,517,684$ 25% Corporate Services 1,350,373$ 23% Total 5,984,360$ 100% Corporate Services 933,317$ 42% Planning and Watershed Services 666,515$ 30% Backus Heritage CA/Education/Heritage 3,945$ 0% Maintenance Operations Services 633,903$ 28% Total 2,237,681$ 100% 19 T Y M PMunicipality of Bayham | County of Brant | Haldimand County Town of Tillsonburg | Township of Malahide | Norfolk County Township of Norwich | Township of South-West Oxford Member of the Conservation Ontario Network 4 Elm Street, Tillsonburg, ON N4G 0C4519-842-4242 | 1-888-231-5408conservation@lprca.on.cawww.lprca.on.ca @lpr_ca@LongPointConservation@longpointca@lprca LONG POINT REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY Financial Statements December 31, 2025 LONG POINT REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY INDEX TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS DECEMBER 31, 2025 Page(s) Management Report 1 Independent Auditor’s Report 2 – 3 Statement of Financial Position 4 Statement of Operations and Change in Accumulated Surplus 5 Statement of Changes in Net Financial Assets 6 Statement of Cash Flows 7 Notes to the Financial Statements 8 – 19 Schedule 1 – Schedule of Deferred Revenue 20 Schedule 2 – Schedule of Tangible Capital Assets 21 Schedule 3 – Schedule of Internally Restricted Reserves 22 Schedule 4 – Schedule of Externally Restricted Reserves 23 Schedule 5 – Schedule of Segmented Reporting 24 – 25 Page 1 MANAGEMENT REPORT Management’s Responsibility for the Financial Statements The accompanying financial statements are the responsibility of the management of Long Point Region Conservation Authority and have been prepared by management in accordance with Canadian public sector accounting standards. Management is also responsible for the notes to the financial statements, schedules and the integrity and objectivity of these financial statements. The preparation of financial statements involves the use of estimates based on management’s judgment to which management has determined such amounts on a reasonable basis in order to ensure that the financial statements and any other supplementary information presented are consistent with that in the financial statements. The Authority is also responsible to maintain a system of internal accounting and administrative controls that are designed to provide reasonable assurance that the financial information is relevant, reliable, available on a timely basis, and accurate, and that the transactions are properly authorized and that the Authority’s assets are properly accounted for and adequately safeguarded. The Board of Directors are responsible for ensuring that management fulfills its responsibilities for financial reporting and internal control. The Board reviews internal financial statements on a quarterly basis with management, as well as with the external auditors to satisfy itself that each party is properly discharging its responsibilities with respect to internal controls and financial reporting. The external auditors MNP LLP have full and free access to financial information and the Board of Directors prior to the approval of the financial statements. The financial statements have been examined by MNP LLP, the external auditors of the Authority. The responsibility of the external auditors is to conduct an independent examination in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards, and to express their opinion on whether the financial statements are fairly presented in all material respects in accordance with Canadian public sector accounting standards. _______________________________ Doug Brunton Chairman of the Board _______________________________ Judy Maxwell, CPA, CGA General Manager, Secretary/Treasurer Tillsonburg, Canada March 6, 2026 Independent Auditor's Report To the Board of Directors of Long Point Region Conservation Authority: Opinion We have audited the financial statements of Long Point Region Conservation Authority (the "Authority"), which comprise the statement of financial position as at December 31, 2025, and the statements of operations and change in accumulated surplus, changes in net financial assets and cash flows for the year then ended, and notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies. In our opinion, the accompanying financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Authority as at December 31, 2025, and the results of its operations, changes in its net financial assets and its cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with Canadian public sector accounting standards. Basis for Opinion We conducted our audit in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements section of our report. We are independent of the Authority in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in Canada, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. Responsibilities of Management and Those Charged with Governance for the Financial Statements Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in accordance with Canadian public sector accounting standards, and for such internal control as management determines is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial statements, management is responsible for assessing the Authority’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless management either intends to liquidate the Authority or to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so. Those charged with governance are responsible for overseeing the Authority’s financial reporting process. Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. MNP LLP 255 Queens Ave, Suite 700, London ON,N6A 5R8 T: 519.679.8550 F: 519.679.1812 MNP.ca As part of an audit in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards, we exercise professional judgment and maintain professional skepticism throughout the audit. We also: Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control. Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Authority’s internal control. Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related disclosures made by management. Conclude on the appropriateness of management's use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Authority’s ability to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor's report to the related disclosures in the financial statements or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor's report. However, future events or conditions may cause the Authority to cease to continue as a going concern. Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the financial statements, including the disclosures, and whether the financial statements represent the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation. We communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit. London, Ontario Chartered Professional Accountants March 6, 2026 Licensed Public Accountants LONG POINT REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY Page 4 STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS AT DECEMBER 31, 2025 2025 2024 $ 3,176,870 $ 2,865,947 10,745,634 10,420,467 242,094 162,954 47,712 46,941 107,219 127,479 14,319,529 13,623,788 333,199 349,044 924,468 1,027,817 1,257,667 1,376,861 13,061,862 12,246,927 8,896,191 8,387,688 $ 21,958,053 $ 20,634,615 7,058,571 6,249,829 6,003,291 5,997,098 8,896,191 8,387,688 $ 21,958,053 $ 20,634,615 Financial Assets Cash (note 3) Investments (note 4) Accounts receivable (note 11) Accrued receivable (note 11) Other assets (note 11) Financial Liabilities Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (note 11) Deferred revenue (schedule 1) Net financial assets Non-Financial Assets Tangible capital assets (schedule 2) Net assets Commitment (note 6) Contingent liabilities (note 8) Accumulated Surplus Accumulated surplus - internally restricted (schedule 3) Accumulated surplus - externally restricted (schedule 4) Accumulated surplus - tangible capital assets Total accumulated surplus On behalf of the Board of Directors: ________________________ Doug Brunton Chair, Board of Directors ________________________ Dave Beres Chair, Audit and Finance Committee LONG POINT REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY Page 5 STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS AND CHANGE IN ACCUMULATED SURPLUS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2025 Budget Actual Actual 2025 2025 2024 (note 5) Revenues Municipal levies: General $2,237,681 $2,237,681 $2,145,963 Special 257,500 182,638 216,424 Government grants: Provincial 35,229 35,229 35,229 Corporate services (note 7)254,250 691,302 406,347 Planning and watershed services 373,490 551,191 501,757 Forestry services 492,394 533,965 505,027 Backus Heritage conservation area 202,335 250,129 148,542 Conservation parks 2,025,200 2,199,896 2,152,252 Maintenance operations services 679,096 608,659 333,978 Gain on disposal of tangible capital assets -17,108 - Total Revenues 6,557,175 7,307,798 6,445,519 Expenditures Corporate services 1,315,736 1,350,373 1,368,009 Planning and watershed services 1,104,776 1,346,148 1,130,016 Forestry services 466,689 403,830 398,958 Backus Heritage conservation area 334,746 415,304 308,323 Conservation parks 1,713,973 1,517,684 1,499,324 Maintenance operations services 1,146,345 951,021 900,671 Total Expenditures 6,082,265 5,984,360 5,605,301 Annual Surplus $474,910 $1,323,438 $840,218 Accumulated surplus, beginning of the year 20,634,615 20,634,615 19,794,397 Accumulated surplus, end of the year $21,109,525 $21,958,053 $20,634,615 LONG POINT REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY Page 6 STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET FINANCIAL ASSETS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2025 Budget Actual Actual 2025 2025 2024 (note 5) Annual surplus $461,260 $1,323,438 $840,218 Acquisition of tangible capital assets (808,864)(912,531)(645,031) Gain on disposal of tangible capital assets -(17,108)- Proceeds on disposal of tangible capital assets -18,109 - Amortization of tangible capital assets -403,027 320,540 Change in net financial assets (347,604)814,935 515,727 Net financial assets, beginning of year 12,246,927 12,246,927 11,731,200 Net financial assets, end of year $11,899,323 $13,061,862 $12,246,927 LONG POINT REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY Page 7 STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2025 2025 2024 Cash Flows from Operating Activities Operating activities: Annual surplus $1,323,438 $840,218 Items not affecting cash: Amortization of tangible capital assets 403,027 320,540 Gain on disposal of tangible capital assets (17,108)- 1,709,357 1,160,758 Change in non-cash working capital: Accounts receivable (79,140)225,677 Accrued receivable (771)(33,366) Other assets 20,260 (51,655) Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (15,845)(7,244) Deferred revenue (103,349)148,689 1,530,512 1,442,859 Investing activities: Acquisition of tangible capital assets (912,531)(645,031) Change in investments (325,167) (1,990,890) Proceeds on disposal of tangible capital assets 18,109 - (1,219,589) (2,635,921) Change in cash 310,923 (1,193,062) Cash, beginning of year 2,865,947 4,059,009 Cash, end of year $3,176,870 $2,865,947 LONG POINT REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY Page 8 NOTES TO THE FINANCAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2025 1. Purpose of the Organization Long Point Region Conservation Authority (the “Authority”) is a special purpose environmental body established under the Conservation Authorities Act of Ontario and works with member municipalities, other stakeholders, and undertakes programing to protect, restore and manage the natural resources and features in the Long Point Region Watershed. 2. Significant Accounting Policies The financial statements of Long Point Region Conservation Authority are the representation of management, prepared in accordance with Canadian public sector accounting standards for local governments as recommended by the Public Sector Accounting Board (PSAB) of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada. The policies that are considered to be particularly significant are as follows: [a] Revenue Recognition The Authority follows the deferral method of accounting for contributions and government transfers. Restricted contributions and government transfers are deferred and are recognized as revenues in the year in which the related expenses are incurred or services performed. Unrestricted contributions and government transfers are recognized as revenues in the period in which events giving rise to the revenue occur, provided that the transactions are authorized, any eligibility criteria have been met, and a reasonable estimate can be made of the amount to be received. General grants and levies are recognized in the period they pertain to. Corporate services, Planning and watershed services, Forestry services, Backus Heritage site, Conservation parks and Maintenance operations services are recognized as the related expenses are incurred and the services are provided. Interest and investment income is recognized on the accrual basis as it is earned. [b] Accrual Accounting Revenues and expenditures are reported on the accrual basis of accounting. The accrual basis of accounting recognizes revenues as they become available and measurable; expenditures are recognized as they are incurred and measurable as a result of receipt of goods or services and the creation of a legal obligation to pay. LONG POINT REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY Page 9 NOTES TO THE FINANCAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2025 2. Significant Accounting Policies (continued from previous page) [c] Internal Transactions All inter-departmental revenues and expenditures have been eliminated for these financial statements. [d] Investments All of the investments are carried at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method. The Board of Directors has the intention to hold investments until maturity. [e] Reserve Fund Balances Internally restricted reserves are those with restrictions imposed by the Board of Directors in order to ensure funds are available for financial relief in the event of a significant loss of revenues or other financial emergency for which there is no other source of funding available. Internally restricted funds are as follows: (i) The OPG Forest Corridor Fund for the long-term monitoring of forest areas. (ii) The Memorial Woodlot fund for the donations to the Memorial Woodlot Fund and cost to Memorial Woodlot Fund at Backus. (iii) The Lee Brown Waterfowl M.A. Capital Replacement Fund for the capital replacements of Lee Brown Waterfowl M.A. (iv) The Capital Levy fund for capital additions, replacements or improvements within the authority. (v) The Dam Fund is for maintenance and capital upgrades to the Authority owned flood control structures. (vi) The Administration Office Fund is for the future acquisition of office space that meets the organization’s needs. (vii) The Strategic Investments in Operation/Capital Fund is for investment in operations and capital alignment with the organization’s strategic plan. (viii) The Motor Pool Reserve is for the Operations/Capital replacement of the Authority’s Motor Pool fleet and equipment. (ix) The User Fee Reserve is for the Operations/Capital of the self-sustaining programs and services (Forestry and Parks). Externally restricted reserves are those with restriction imposed by individuals external to the Board of Directors. Externally restricted funds are as follows: (i) Revenues and expenditures related to the Backus Heritage Village are recorded in the Backus Heritage Village Trust Fund. LONG POINT REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY Page 10 NOTES TO THE FINANCAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2025 2. Significant Accounting Policies (continued from previous page) (ii) Revenues and expenditures related to the Leighton and Betty Brown scholarships are recorded in the Leighton and Betty Brown Scholarship Fund. (iii) Disposition of Lands Reserve shall use the funds for dam studies and repairs, flood hazard mapping and flood forecasting tools. (iv) The Backus Woods Reserve shall be used for conservation educational activities and capital expenditures related to educational activities at the Backus Heritage Conservation Area. [f] Tangible Capital Assets Tangible capital assets are recorded at cost which includes amounts that are directly attributable to acquisition, construction, development or betterment of the asset. The cost, less residual values, of the tangible capital asset, excluding land and landfill sites, are amortized on a straight- line basis over their estimated useful lives as follows: Asset Useful Life -Years Land improvements 10 - 20 years Buildings and building improvements 40 - 50 years Machinery & equipment 5 - 20 years Furniture and fixtures 10 years Computers 5 years Motor vehicles 10 - 20 years Infrastructure 40 - 50 years Amortization is charged in the year of acquisition and in the year of disposal. Assets under construction are not amortized until the asset is available for productive use. Contributed tangible capital assets are recorded into revenues at their fair market values on the date of a donation. During the year, management completed a review of the estimated useful lives of certain tangible capital assets. As a result of this review, management determined that revisions to the estimated useful lives of these assets were necessary to better reflect their expected remaining service potential. This change represents a change in accounting estimate and has been accounted for prospectively, in accordance with PSAS Section PS 2120, Accounting Changes. Accordingly, the effect of the change has been reflected in amortization expense for the current year and future periods. Prior period financial information has not been restated. LONG POINT REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY Page 11 NOTES TO THE FINANCAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2025 2. Significant Accounting Policies (continued from previous page) [g] Donations Unrestricted donations are recorded as revenue in the year they are received. Externally restricted donations are deferred and recognized as revenue in the year in which the related expenses are recognized. Donated materials and services are recorded as revenue and expenditure when the fair market value of the materials and services donated is verifiable, only to the extent the Authority has issued a charitable donation receipt for those materials and services. [h] Use of Estimates The preparation of the financial statements of the Authority, in conformity with Canadian public sector accounting standards, requires management to make estimates that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent liabilities, at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the period. Actual results may differ from these estimates. [i] Contaminated Sites Contaminated sites are the result of contamination being introduced in air, soil, water or sediment of a chemical, organic, or radioactive material or living organism that exceed an environmental standard. A liability for remediation of contaminated sites is recognized, net of any expected recoveries, when all of the following criteria are met: (i) an environmental standard exists; (ii) contamination exceeds the environmental standard; (iii) the Authority is directly responsible or accepts responsibility for the liability; (iv) future economic benefits will be given up; and (v) a reasonable estimate of the liability can be made. [j] Deferred Revenue The Authority receives contributions principally from public sector bodies pursuant to legislation, regulations or agreements that may only be used for certain programs or in the completion of specific work. These amounts are recognized as revenue in the fiscal year the related expenditures are incurred or service is performed. LONG POINT REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY Page 12 NOTES TO THE FINANCAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2025 2. Significant Accounting Policies (continued from previous page) [k] Financial instruments (i) Measurement of financial instruments The Authority initially measures it financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value adjusted by, in the case of a financial instrument that will not be measured subsequently at fair value, the amount of transaction costs directly attributable to the instrument. The Authority subsequently measures its financial assets and financial liabilities at amortized cost. Financial assets measured at amortized cost include cash, accounts receivable, accrued receivables and investments. Financial liabilities measured at amortized cost include accounts payable and accrued liabilities and long term liabilities. (ii) Fair value measurements The Authority classifies fair value measurements recognized in the statement of financial position using a three-tier fair value hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value as follows: Level 1: Quoted prices (unadjusted) are available in active markets for identical assets or liabilities; Level 2: Inputs other than quoted prices in active markets that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly; and Level 3: Unobservable inputs in which there is little or no market data, which require the Organization to develop its own assumptions. Fair value measurements are classified in the fair value hierarchy based on the lowest level input that is significant to that fair value measurement. This assessment requires judgment, considering factors specific to an asset or a liability and may affect placement within the fair value hierarchy. LONG POINT REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY Page 13 NOTES TO THE FINANCAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2025 2. Significant Accounting Policies (continued from previous page) (iii) Impairment All financial assets are assessed for impairment on an annual basis. When a decline is determine to be other than temporary, the amount of the loss is reported in the Statement of Operations and any unrealized gain is adjusted through the Statement of Remeasurement Gains and Losses. When the asset is sold, the unrealized gains and losses previously recognized in the Statement of Remeasurement Gains and Losses are reversed and recognized in the Statement of Operations. The write-down reflects the difference between the carrying amount and the higher of: a) the present value of the cash flows expected to be generated by the asset or group of assets; b) the amount that could be realized by selling the assets or group of assets; c) the net realizable value of any collateral held to secure repayment of the assets of group of assets. There are no items to be reported on the Statement of Remeasurement Gains and Losses, as a result, this statement has not been presented. [l] Asset Retirement Obligations An asset retirement obligation is recognized when, as at the financial reporting date, all of the following criteria are met: (i) there is a legal obligation to incur retirement costs in relation to a tangible capital asset; (ii) the past transaction or event giving rise to the liability has occurred; (iii) it is expected that future economic benefits will be given up; and (iv) a reasonable estimate of the amount can be made. There have been no asset retirement obligations identified. LONG POINT REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY Page 14 NOTES TO THE FINANCAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2025 3. Cash Cash consists of cash on hand and all bank account deposits. The cash balance is comprised of the following: 2025 2024 General $3,165,708 $2,862,738 Externally restricted: Backus Heritage Village 4,446 295 Leighton and Betty Brown Scholarship 6,716 2,914 $3,176,870 $2,865,947 General cash includes a bank account earning interest at 2.65% (2024 – 3.40%). 4. Investments The Authority holds government and corporate bonds, short-term guaranteed investment certificates, money market funds and cash within their investments. The investment balance is comprised of: 2025 2024 Government and corporate bonds, maturing at various dates between 2026 and 2037 (2024 – 2025 and 2035), yields varying between 1.40% and 5.21% (2024 – 1.40% and 5.21%)$5,810,000 $5,890,000 Guaranteed investment certificates maturing at various dates in 2026 (2024 – 2025), yielding between 2.80% and 3.35%(2024 –3.75% and 5.10%) 4,810,000 3,459,000 Principal protected notes – fixed income note, yields varying between 0% and index return multiplied by the participation rate -1,000,000 Money market funds, no specified maturity or yield 11,868 11,743 Cash 115,984 92,279 10,747,852 10,453,022 Plus: accrued interest 41,356 35,916 Plus: unamortized purchase premium (43,574)(68,471) (2,218)(32,555) $10,745,634 $10,420,467 LONG POINT REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY Page 15 NOTES TO THE FINANCAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2025 5. Budget Figures The unaudited budget data presented in theses financial statements are based upon the 2025 operating and capital budgets approved by the Board of Directors on January 8, 2025. 6. Commitment The Authority rents a premise under a long-term operating lease that expires October 2028, with two further 5 year optional renewal periods, with a final term ending October, 2038. The operating lease payments are as follows: 2026 117,654 2027 120,007 2028 122,407 2029 124,855 2030 127,352 Thereafter 1,083,351 1,695,627 7. Investment Income Included in corporate services revenue is interest income on investments of $464,170 (2024 - $362,458). 8. Contingent Liabilities From time to time, the Authority is subject to claims and other lawsuits that arise in the course of ordinary business, in which damages have been sought. These matters may give rise to future liabilities for which the Authority maintains insurance coverage to mitigate such risks. The outcome of these actions is not determinable, and accordingly, no provision has been made in these financial statements for any liability that may result. Any losses arising from these actions will be recorded in the year in which the related litigation is settled. 9. Pension Agreements The Authority makes contributions to the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (“OMERS”) plan, which is a multi-employer plan, on behalf of full-time and qualifying part-time employees. The plan is a defined benefit pension plan, which specifies the amount of the retirement benefit to be received by employees based on the length of service, pension formula and employee earnings. Employees and employers contribute equally to the plan. In 2025, the Authority’s contribution to OMERS was $221,023 (2024 – $219,415). LONG POINT REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY Page 16 NOTES TO THE FINANCAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2025 9. Pension Agreements (continued from previous page) The latest available report for the OMERS plan was December 31, 2024. At that time the plan reported a $2.9 billion actuarial deficit (2023 - $4.2 billion deficit), based on actuarial liabilities of $140.8 billion (2023 - $134.6 billion) and actuarial assets of $137.9 billion (2023 - $130.4 billion). Ongoing adequacy of the current contribution rates will need to be monitored and may lead to increased future funding requirements. As OMERS is a multi-employer pension plan, any pension plan surpluses or deficits are a joint responsibility of all eligible organizations and their employees. As a result, the Authority does not recognize any share of the OMERS pension actuarial surplus or deficit. 10. Segmented Information The Authority provides a range of services. Distinguishable functional segments have been separately disclosed in the segmented information schedule. The nature of those segments and the activities they encompass are as follows: Corporate services Corporate services is comprised of Governance and general administration. These areas include the Board of Directors, Office of the General Manager, Administration, Accounting and Finance, Communications, Information Services and Human Resources. Planning and watershed Planning and watershed provides services related to property development, technical reviews, operation of flood control structures, flood forecasting and warning, restoration programming, source water protection and water quality monitoring. Forestry services Forestry is comprised of Stewardship services and Forestry. Stewardship provides tree planting, restoration and establishment programs. Forestry sustainably manages the Authority’s forest tracts resources. Backus Heritage conservation area Backus Heritage Conservation Area provides conservation education programing, heritage programming and recreational activities and is home to the Backhouse National Historic Site. Conservation parks Conservation parks provides recreational and camping activities at: Deer Creek Conservation Area, Backus Conservation Area, Haldimand Conservation Area, Norfolk Conservation Area and Waterford North Conservation Area. LONG POINT REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY Page 17 NOTES TO THE FINANCAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2025 10. Segmented Information (continued from previous page) Maintenance operations services Maintenance Operations Services provides property, plant and equipment maintenance services and includes the Lee Brown Marsh. 11. Financial Instruments and Risks Unless otherwise noted, it is management's opinion that the Authority is not exposed to significant risks. There have been no changes in the Authority's risk exposures from the prior year. Credit risk The Authority is exposed to credit risk through its cash and accounts receivable. The Authority reduces its exposure to credit risk by creating an allowance for bad debts when applicable. The majority of the Authority’s receivables are from government entities. The Authority mitigates its exposure to credit loss by placing its cash with major financial institutions. At year end, the amounts outstanding for the Authority’s cash and accounts receivable are as follows: 2025 Current 31-60 days 61-90 days 91-120 days Over 120 days Total Cash $3,176,870 $- $- $- $- $3,176,870 Accounts receivable 221,055 5,163 5,642 10,234 - 242,094 Accrued receivable 47,712 - - - - 47,712 Other assets 107,219 - - - - 107,219 Total $3,552,856 $5,163 $5,642 $10,234 $- $3,573,895 LONG POINT REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY Page 18 NOTES TO THE FINANCAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2025 11. Financial Instruments and Risks (continued from previous page) 2024 Current 31-60 days 61-90 days 91-120 days Over 120 days Total Cash $2,865,947 $- $- $- $- $2,865,947 Accounts receivable 160,510 2,208 - 236 - 162,954 Accrued receivable 46,941 - - - - 46,941 Other assets 127,479 - - - - 127,479 Total $3,200,877 $2,208 $- $236 $- $3,203,321 Liquidity risk Liquidity risk is the risk that the Authority will not be able to meet its obligations as they become due. The Authority manages this risk by establishing budgets and funding plans to fund its expenses. The following tables set out the expected maturities (representing undiscounted contractual cash- flow of financial liabilities): 2025 Within 1 year 1-5 years Over 5 years Total Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $333,199 $-$-$333,199 Total $333,199 $-$-$333,199 2024 Within 1 year 1-5 years Over 5 years Total Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $349,044 $-$-$349,044 Total $349,044 $-$-$349,044 LONG POINT REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY Page 19 NOTES TO THE FINANCAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2025 11. Financial Instruments and Risks (continued from previous page) Interest rate risk Interest rate risk is the risk of potential loss caused by fluctuations in fair value of cashflow of financial instruments due to changes in market interest rate. The Authority is exposed to this risk through its interest-bearing investments. The Authority manages this risk through investing in fixed-rate securities. The Authority’s investments are risk-managed under the Authority’s investment policy. 12. Comparative Figures Certain comparative figures have been reclassified to conform to the current year’s presentation. During the year, management reviewed the classification of tangible capital assets and determined that certain assets were more appropriately presented in different asset categories. As a result, assets with a net book value of $103,745 as at December 31, 2024 were reclassified from motor vehicles to machinery and equipment in the comparative figures. These reclassifications did not result in any change to total tangible capital assets, accumulated amortization, annual surplus, or accumulated surplus for the prior year. LONG POINT REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY Page 20 SCHEDULE 1 –SCHEDULE OF DEFERRED REVENUE FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2025 2025 2024 Balance, beginning of year $1,027,817 $879,128 Externally restricted contributions 466,611 503,195 Interest earned, restricted 158,167 36,292 Contributions used in operations (728,127)(390,798) Balance, end of year $924,468 $1,027,817 LONG POINT REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY Page 21 SCHEDULE 2 –SCHEDULE OF TANGIBLE CAPITAL ASSETS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2025 For the year ended December 31, 2025 2025 Opening Balance Additions Disposals Balance End of Year Accumulated Amortization Beginning of Year Reversals Amortization Accumulated Amortization End of Year Net Carrying Amount End of Year Land 4,605,258$ -$ -$ 4,605,258 -$ -$ -$ -$ 4,605,258$ Land improvements 164,568 127,343 -291,911 31,080 -14,804 45,884 246,027 Buildings 2,659,946 103,204 -2,763,150 1,310,541 -69,082 1,379,623 1,383,527 Machinery and equipment 863,898 89,867 12,594 941,171 343,649 11,593 55,670 387,726 553,445 Furniture and fixtures 8,595 360,331 -368,926 4,862 -36,893 41,755 327,171 Computers 221,014 10,584 -231,598 197,714 -9,390 207,104 24,494 Motor vehicles 868,154 112,790 34,674 946,269 410,778 34,674 78,057 454,161 492,108 Infrastructure 2,399,154 108,412 -2,507,566 1,104,275 -139,131 1,243,406 1,264,160 Total 11,790,587$ 912,531$ 47,268$ 12,655,850$ 3,402,899$ 46,267$ 403,027$ 3,759,659$ 8,896,191$ For the year ended December 31, 2024 2024 Opening Balance Additions Disposals Balance End of Year Accumulated Amortization Beginning of Year Reversals Amortization Accumulated Amortization End of Year Net Carrying Amount End of Year Land 4,605,258$ -$ -$ 4,605,258$ -$ -$ -$ -$ 4,605,258$ Land improvements 117,114 47,454 -164,568 23,905 -7,175 31,080 133,488 Buildings 2,497,639 162,307 -2,659,946 1,249,996 -60,545 1,310,541 1,349,405 Machinery and equipment 759,086 104,812 -863,898 298,675 -44,974 343,649 520,249 Furniture and fixtures 8,595 --8,595 4,002 -860 4,862 3,733 Computers 210,250 10,764 -221,014 191,762 -5,952 197,714 23,300 Motor vehicles 589,645 278,509 -868,154 334,607 -76,171 410,778 457,376 Infrastructure 2,357,969 41,185 -2,399,154 979,412 -124,863 1,104,275 1,294,879 Total 11,145,556$ 645,031$ -$ 11,790,587$ 3,082,359$ -$ 320,540$ 3,402,899$ 8,387,688$ Cost Accumulated Amortization Cost Accumulated Amortization LONG POINT REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY Page 22 SCHEDULE 3 –SCHEDULE OF INTERNALLY RESTICTED RESERVES FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2025 Balance, beginning of year Transfer from operations Transfer to operations Balance, end of year OPG Forest Corridor 30,337 -- 30,337 Memorial Woodlot 22,439 1,621 - 24,060 Lee Brown Waterfowl Capital 86,049 50,324 - 136,373 Dam Reserve 50,000 -- 50,000 Administration Office 569,567 -- 569,567 Strategic Investments in operations/capital 210,938 -- 210,938 Motor Pool Reserve 192,405 11,950 -204,355 User Fee Reserve 1,313,179 553,746 258,380 1,608,545 Capital Levy 569,626 72,276 298,161 343,741 Unrestricted Reserve 3,205,289 1,253,796 578,430 3,880,655 $ 6,249,829 $1,943,713 $1,134,971 $7,058,571 LONG POINT REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY Page 23 SCHEDULE 4 –SCHEDULE OF EXTERNALLY RESTICTED RESERVES FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2025 Balance, beginning of year Transfer from operations Transfer to operations Balance, end of year Backus Heritage Village $ 81,556 $ 3,153 $ - $ 84,709 Leighton & Betty Brown Scholarship 133,002 4,040 1,000 136,042 Backus Woods 4,872,500 -- 4,872,500 Disposition of Lands Reserve 910,040 -- 910,040 $ 5,997,098 $ 7,193 $1,000 $ 6,003,291 LONG POINT REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY Page 24 SCHEDULE 5 –SCHEDULE OF SEGMENTED REPORTING (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2025 2025 Schedule of Segmented Reporting Corporate services Planning and watershed services Forestry services Backus Heritage Conservation parks Maintenance operations services 2025 Total Revenue: Levies $933,317 $731,707 -$14,445 -$740,850 $2,420,319 Grants -35,229 -- --35,229 Fees 691,301 551,192 -250,129 2,199,896 608,659 4,301,177 Forestry --533,965 - --533,965 Gain on disposal of tangible capital assets 17,108 --- --17,108 Total revenue 1,641,726 1,318,128 533,965 264,574 2,199,896 1,349,509 7,307,798 Expenditures: Compensation 808,473 806,943 310,341 207,417 912,945 455,964 3,502,083 Administration 137,599 6,667 846 36,675 210,824 194,105 586,716 Professional/ contracted services 209,694 352,727 49,464 14,407 130,435 29,040 785,767 Materials and Supplies 16,782 103,292 43,179 76,873 128,679 25,852 394,657 Amortization 47,140 61,212 -60,314 101,501 132,860 403,027 Repairs and _maintenance 130,685 15,307 -17,920 33,147 40,499 237,558 Motor pool ---1,698 153 72,701 74,552 Total expenditures 1,350,373 1,346,148 403,830 415,304 1,517,684 951,021 5,984,360 Surplus $291,353 ($28,020)$130,135 ($150,730)$682,212 $398,488 $1,323,438 LONG POINT REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY Page 25 SCHEDULE 5 –SCHEDULE OF SEGMENTED REPORTING FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2024 2024 Schedule of Segmented Reporting Corporate services Planning and watershed services Forestry services Backus Heritage Conservation parks Maintenance operations services 2024 Total Revenue: Levies $958,646 $562,554 -$5,582 -$835,605 $2,362,387 Grants -35,229 ----35,229 Fees 406,347 501,757 -148,542 2,152,252 333,978 3,542,876 Forestry --505,027 ---505,027 Total revenue 1,364,993 1,099,540 505,027 154,124 2,152,252 1,169,583 6,445,519 Expenditures: Compensation 892,002 730,406 292,715 212,406 937,718 406,542 3,471,789 Administration 125,764 8,922 622 26,929 203,812 195,004 561,053 Professional/ contracted services 200,370 199,125 71,228 2,702 134,612 23,788 631,825 Materials and Supplies 17,696 135,060 34,393 7,860 83,975 29,953 308,937 Amortization 7,669 49,869 -53,010 83,304 126,688 320,540 Repairs and _maintenance 124,508 6,634 -5,416 55,636 40,441 232,635 Motor pool ----267 78,255 78,522 Total expenditures 1,368,009 1,130,016 398,958 308,323 1,499,324 900,671 5,605,301 Surplus ($3,016)($30,476)$106,069 ($154,199)$652,928 $268,912 $840,218 Elgin County Council received the final report for the County’s first comprehensive Transportation Master Plan (TMP), marking the completion of a multi-year planning process that will guide future transportation decisions across the County. The plan establishes 31 initiatives focused on key priorities such as improving road safety, responding to future traffic demands, supporting agricultural and freight movement, and exploring options for passenger transit services. It also considers emerging transportation trends, including cycling infrastructure, pedestrian crossings, and micromobility vehicles such as e-bikes. Several near-term initiatives are already underway, including planning for safety improvements at intersections and policy development related to transit services. The Transportation Master Plan will serve as a reference for future policy and capital investment decisions and will be revisited in 2030 to reflect updated growth projections and Council priorities. The Transportation Master Plan be viewed here. ELGIN COUN TY From the Council Chambers March 10, 2026 Council Meeting Council Receives Final Transportation Master Plan Page 1Council Highlights | March 10, 2026 Council approved the award of three tenders supporting road rehabilitation and infrastructure improvements scheduled for the 2026 construction season. Contracts were awarded to complete Cold In-Place Asphalt Recycling, Hot Mix Asphalt Paving, and Culvert Rehabilitations on several County roads. Roto-Mill Inc. was selected to complete the asphalt recycling work for $1,978,191.24, while Brantco Construction will carry out the hot mix asphalt paving program for $5,415,177.50, and Laemers Excavating will complete culvert rehabilitation projects for $380,382.66. Council Awards 2026 Road Rehabilitation Contracts These projects are part of the County’s approved 2026 Capital Budget and support ongoing maintenance and improvement of Elgin County’s transportation network. Work will take place on several County roads throughout the upcoming construction season to help maintain safe and reliable infrastructure for residents, businesses, and agricultural traffic. Council Meeting Council Awards 2026 Road Rehabilitation Contracts (continued) Page 2Council Highlights | March 10, 2026 Council approved the award of a contract for the supply of incontinence products for Elgin County’s long-term care homes following a Request for Proposals (RFP) process. The contract will ensure residents at Terrace Lodge, Elgin Manor, and Bobier Villa continue to receive essential personal care products that support comfort, dignity, and quality of life. The agreement will provide a consistent supply of products across all three Homes while supporting the ongoing delivery of high-quality resident care. For the full Council Agenda, click here. Contract Approved for Incontinence Products at County Homes Elgin County’s Committee of the Whole reviewed the 2026 Sponsorship Application Submissions and selected a pro-rated distribution of available funding among all eligible applicants. Each year, the County reviews applications from organizations requesting sponsorship support for events and initiatives that align with the County’s strategic priorities and provide benefit to residents and communities across Elgin. The County received 50 sponsorship applications requesting a combined total of $110,025. After two applications were deemed ineligible, 48 eligible applications remained requesting $99,625, exceeding the $78,184 budgeted for the program. Under the selected approach, four applicants requesting less than the maximum amount will receive their full requested funding. The remaining applicants, each of whom requested the maximum $2,000, would receive $1,683.16 through a proportional distribution of the available funds. This option allows all eligible applicants to receive support while ensuring the total allocations remain within the approved 2026 sponsorship budget. Committee of the Whole Committee Selects Pro-Rated Distribution for 2026 Sponsorship Funding Page 3Council Highlights | March 10, 2026 The Committee reviewed proposed updates to the County Road By-Law and the Reduced Load By- Law and recommended approval to Council. The updates to the County Road By-Law provide an updated summary of the legal property plans and documents that outline the County Road network, ensuring the by-law accurately reflects the County’s road system. The Committee also reviewed updates to the County’s Reduced Load By-Law, which regulates seasonal weight restrictions on certain County roads to protect infrastructure during the spring thaw when road conditions are more vulnerable to damage. Maintaining up-to-date by-laws helps ensure clear guidance for road users, supports effective transportation planning, and protects County infrastructure. For the full Committee of the Whole Agenda, click here. Committee Reviews Updates to County Road and Reduced Load By-Laws ElginCounty Elgin County Council Committee of the Whole Meeting Minutes February 24, 2026, 9:30 a.m. Council Chambers 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas ON Members Present: Warden Dominique Giguere Deputy Warden Grant Jones Councillor Ed Ketchabaw Councillor Mark Widner Councillor Andrew Sloan Councillor Mike Hentz Councillor Richard Leatham Members Absent: Councillor Jack Couckuyt (with notice) Councillor Todd Noble (with notice) Staff Present: Blaine Parkin, Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk Nicholas Loeb, Director of Legal Services Brian Masschaele, Director of Community & Cultural Services Jennifer Ford, Director of Financial Services/Treasurer (virtual) Peter Dutchak, Director of Engineering Services Mat Vaughan, Director of Planning and Development Holly Hurley, Director of People & Culture Joe Anne Holloway, Director of Homes and Seniors Services Katherine Thompson, Manager of Administrative Services/Deputy Clerk Diana Morris, Senior Planner Jenna Fentie, Legislative Services Coordinator Stefanie Heide, Legislative Services Coordinator Candace Bill, Employee Rewards and Systems Advisor 1. Meeting Call to Order The meeting was called to order at 9:35 a.m. with Warden Giguere in the chair. 2. Approval of Agenda Resolution Number: CW26-18 Moved by: Deputy Warden Jones Seconded by: Councillor Hentz RESOLVED THAT the agenda for the February 24, 2026 Committee of the Whole Meeting be approved as presented. Motion Carried. 3. Adoption of Minutes Resolution Number: CW26-19 Moved by: Councillor Leatham Seconded by: Deputy Warden Jones RESOLVED THAT the minutes of the meeting held on February 10, 2026 be adopted. Motion Carried. 4. Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof None. 5. Members' Motions None. 6. Reports of Council, Staff or Outside Boards 6.1 Senior Planner - PLN 26-03 Official Plan Amendment No. 27 in the Town of Aylmer 516 John Street North The Senior Planner presented the report that recommends approval of Official Plan Amendment No. 27 to the Official Plan of the Town of Aylmer. Resolution Number: CW26-20 Moved by: Councillor Hentz Seconded by: Councillor Ketchabaw RESOLVED THAT the Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin approves Official Plan Amendment No. 27 to the Official Plan of the Town of Aylmer; and THAT staff be directed to provide Notice of this Decision in accordance with the requirements of the Planning Act. Motion Carried. 6.2 Manager of Administrative Services/Deputy Clerk - ADM 26-07 Recommendations for Council Learning Sessions The Manager of Administrative Services/Deputy Clerk presented the report that provides a list of potential learning session topics for Council as suggested by Councillors and members of the Executive Leadership Team for the Committee's consideration. Resolution Number: CW26-21 Moved by: Councillor Ketchabaw Seconded by: Deputy Warden Jones RESOLVED THAT the learning session topics identified in the report titled ADM 26-07 Recommendations for Council Learning Sessions", with the addition of Municipal Servicing Corporations and Transportation Assets, be endorsed; and THAT Council approve a list of prioritized learning session topics based on Committee Member input. Motion Carried. 7. Adjournment Resolution Number: CW26-22 Moved by: Councillor Widner Seconded by: Councillor Hentz RESOLVED THAT we do now adjourn at 9:49 a.m. to meet again on March 10, 2026 at 9:30 a.m. 2 Motion Carried. 13 aine Parkin, DominiqLfelbigu6re, Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk. Warden. Moved by: Deputy Warden Jones Seconded by: Councillor Leatham RESOLVED THAT Elgin County Council approve a new commercial two-year term Lease Agreement between Mervin Riddell and Elgin County in relation to Suites 223, 225 and 227 commencing May 1, 2025, and annual rent of 15,820.08; and THAT Elgin County Council approve a new commercial one-year term Lease Agreement between Ontario Clean Water Agency, and Elgin County in relation to Suites 305 and 370. Lease commencing November 1, 2025, at an annual rent of 42,027.37. Motion Carried. 14. Consideration of By -Laws 14.1 By -Law No. 26-11 Confirmation BEING a By -Law to Confirm Proceedings of the Municipal Council of the Corporation of the County of Elgin at the February 24, 2026 Meeting. Moved by: Councillor Hentz Seconded by: Councillor Leatham RESOLVED THAT By -Law No. 26-11 be now read a first, second, and third time and finally passed. Motion Carried. 15. Adjournment Moved by: Councillor Widner Seconded by: Councillor Sloan RESOLVED THAT we do now adjourn at 9:29 a.m. to meet again on March 10, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. Motion Carried. Blaine Parkin, Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk. Dominique Gig re, Warden. 2 REPORT CLERK TO: Mayor & Members of Council FROM: Alan Bushell, Clerk DATE: March 19, 2026 REPORT: CL-03/26 SUBJECT: 2026 MUNICIPAL ELECTION INFORMATION BACKGROUND Municipal and School Board Elections in Ontario are currently held every four (4) years with 2026 being an Election year. Elections are facilitated through the Clerk, which includes substantial work prior to key Election dates. This Report outlines important dates for the 2026 Election and areas that staff have been reviewing with recommended action to ensure legislative compliance. DISCUSSION The Municipal Elections Act, 1996, S.O. 1996, c 32, as amended, outlines the responsibility of the Clerk pertaining to Municipal Elections. ADVANCE VOTE Section 43(2) The Clerk shall establish the date or dates, number, location and hours of advance voting. NUMBER AND LOCATION OF VOTING PLACES Section 45(1)(3)(5) The Clerk has discretion in identifying the number and location of voting places and designating the area. Section 45(2) In establishing the locations of voting places, the clerk shall identify strategies that ensure that each voting place is accessible to electors with disabilities. 2026 Election Dates • Friday May 1, 2026 - First day Nominations can be accepted for Council and School Board positions. • Friday August 21, 2026 - 2:00pm - Nominations Close. Nomination forms must be submitted no later than 2:00pm on this day to be considered for the ballot. • Friday August 21, 2026 - 2:00pm - A candidate who wishes to withdraw their nomination must notify the clerk in writing before 2:00pm. • Monday August 24, 2026 - All nominations to be examined and certified by 4:00pm. • Monday October 26, 2026 – Election Day – 10am through 8pm Election Method Traditionally, Bayham operated elections utilizing polling stations with paper ballots. At its May 1, 2025 meeting, Council provided direction via Report CL-01/25 re 2026 Municipal Election Method of Vote as follows: Moved by: Councillor Froese Seconded by: Councillor Emerson THAT Report CL-01/25 re 2026 Municipal Election Method of Vote be received for information; AND THAT Council approve paper based, traditional ballot, vote anywhere, live voters list as the method of vote for the 2026 Municipal Election. As the election is “vote anywhere”, Eligible Electors will be able to vote at any of the Advanced Voting Places or Voting Places established for the 2026 Municipal Election, regardless of their Ward. Staff are in the process of updating election procedures and candidate information packages to align with the approved vote method. More information will be included on the Municipal website as it becomes available. Election Locations Staff have confirmed the following Election Day poll locations for the 2026 Municipal Elections: Ward 1: Lighthouse Gospel Church, 59 Victoria Street, Port Burwell Ward 2: Straffordville Community Centre (SCC) Main Hall, 56169 Heritage Line, Straffordville (primary) Straffordville Evangelical Mission Church, 55748 Third Street, Straffordville (back-up location) Ward 3: Corinth Community of Christ Church, 54246 Eden Line RR4, Aylmer, ON Voting will be available at these locations between 10am and 8pm on Election Day. The Straffordville Hall Foundation handles Hall bookings and has been advised of the above- noted Election Day dates and times. They will be advised of any Advance Polling dates and times. Primary locations were assessed for accessibility in 2022 and exhibit no significant changes that impede mandatory accessibility criteria as determined by Election Canada. The Straffordville Evangelical Mission Church was assessed by staff and is also suitable as an accessible election location. This venue will be booked as a back-up location if the SCC Main Hall is not available. It is anticipated that the SCC Main Hall or Trackless Lounge will be used for Advance Polls; however, if the Straffordville Evangelical Mission Church is needed, we will be shifting there. At this time, staff advise of the following probable Advance Poll dates, times, and locations: Advance Poll No. Date Time Location 1 Saturday, October 17, 2026 10am-3pm SCC Main Hall or Trackless Lounge *pending confirmation 2 Wednesday, October 21, 2026 10am-7pm 3 Thursday, October 22, 2026 10am-7pm 4 Friday, October 23, 2026 10am-3pm 5 Saturday, October 24, 2026 10am-3pm Review of Election Policies Bayham has in effect the following By-laws: • By-law No. 2017-116, being a by-law to regulate signs including election signs. • By-law No. 2022-023, being a by-law to adopt a use of corporate resources for election purposes policy Staff have reviewed these documents and have determined they are sufficient at this time. Review of Delegated Authorities and Appointments The Municipal Elections Act specifically establishes the Clerk as responsible for running the election and may delegate his/her authority in writing to other staff if desirable. The Clerk is considered the “Returning Officer” and any delegated staff are known as “Deputy Returning Officer”, or DRO, or various Election Official roles as required by the Clerk. These delegations do not require a by-law but do require written authorization similar to when the Clerk delegates his/her authority for other purposes as outlined in the Municipal Act. It is expected that DRO authority will be delegated to the Chief Administrative Officer as they are also appointed as Deputy Clerk for the Municipality1. Other staff may also receive delegated authorities for election purposes as deemed appropriate to ensure smooth operation of the Election. A second level of authority that does require a by-law to be passed is regarding Restricted Acts under Section 275 of the Municipal Act, otherwise known as “Lame Duck”. Lame Duck refers to two (2) periods of time in an Election year, where Municipal Act restrictions are imposed on Council if less than 75 percent of the incumbent Council is in a position for re-election following Nomination Day (August 21, 2026) and/or if less than 75 percent of the incumbent Council is re-elected for the new term of Council, following Election Day (October 26, 2026). For illustrative purposes, on a five-member Council, Lame Duck applies if three or fewer current Members of Council are in a position for re-election at Nomination Day and/or are re-elected. If Municipal Council is deemed to be Lame Duck under the Municipal Act, the following restrictions become applicable and Council shall not take action on: 1 By-law No. 2026-008. (a) the appointment or removal from office of any officer of the municipality; (b) the hiring or dismissal of any employee of the municipality; (c) the disposition of any real or personal property of the municipality which has a value exceeding $50,000 at the time of disposal; and (d) making any expenditures or incurring any other liability which exceeds $50,000. The Municipal Act contains provisions to potentially minimize the impact of a Lame Duck Council, should it occur. Subsection 275(4) identifies that clause (c) and (d) above are not applicable if the disposition or liability was approved in the annual budget, provided that the budget is adopted prior to Nomination Day. Further, through Section 275(6) Council is permitted to delegate its authority to a person or body, provided that the delegation is made prior to Nomination Day for the election of the new Council. To ensure continuity of governance in an instance of Lame Duck, it is recommended that Council adopt a by-law to delegate authority to the Chief Administrative Officer. A draft by-law is included as an attachment to this Report for review. Joint Compliance Audit Committee The Joint Compliance Audit Committee is an adjudicative body established to examine instances where election participants (including candidates, third party advertisers, and campaign contributors), appear to have contravened rules and limits established within the Municipal Elections Act (MEA). Section 88.37 of the MEA requires all municipalities and local boards to establish a compliance audit committee. In accordance with the MEA, the Municipal Election Compliance Audit Committee is composed of no less than three (3) and not more than seven (7) members, and is responsible for considering applications when an eligible elector believes that a candidate or a registered third party has breached finance rules in the campaigning period. Historically, Elgin County municipalities have implemented a Joint Compliance Audit Committee and plan to continue the same for 2026. However, unlike previous elections, Elgin County is leading the administrative and appointment functions for this version of the Joint Compliance Audit Committee. Previously, Aylmer had been the lead. The Joint Compliance Audit Committee appointment is in the works with the County, and appointments to same will be presented to Council for adoption at a later date. The deadline to establish such a Committee is October 1 of an Election year. A by-law will be returning to Council for adoption and establishment of the Joint Compliance Audit Committee once the Terms of Reference are confirmed. Election Training / Information Sessions The Municipality of Bayham has partnered once again with the Town of Aylmer and Township of Malahide on free Candidate Information Sessions. A 2026 Municipal Election Candidate Information Session will be held on Friday, March 27, 2026, starting at 7pm, at the East Elgin Community Complex – Imperial Hall, 531 Talbot St West, Aylmer. The session is being hosted by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH). A second session entitled “Why Run for Municipal Office?” will be held on Monday, April 13, 2026, starting at 7pm, at the Old Town Hall Theatre, 38 John Street South, Aylmer. This session will be a moderated panel discussion with experienced municipal leaders. Bayham, Malahide, and Aylmer are also hosting Drop-in Q&A sessions. Bayham’s is Monday, May 4, 2026 in the Trackless Lounge, Straffordville Community Centre, 56169 Heritage Line, Straffordville from 6 to 7pm. All of this information is available on the Elections page of the Municipal website and will be updated as more information becomes available. STRATEGIC PLAN Not applicable ATTACHMENTS 1. By-law to Delegate Authority under Section 275(6) of the Municipal Act for Restricted Acts to the Chief Administrative Officer RECOMMENDATION 1. THAT Report CL-03/26 re 2026 Municipal Election Information be received for information; 2. AND THAT the appropriate by-law for restricted acts delegated authority be brought forward for Council’s consideration. Respectfully Submitted by: Reviewed by: Alan Bushell Thomas Thayer, CMO, AOMC Clerk Chief Administrative Officer THE CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF BAYHAM BY-LAW NO. 2026-017 A BY-LAW TO DELEGATE CERTAIN RESPONSIBILITIES THROUGH THE RESTRICTED ACTS OF COUNCIL, KNOWN AS “LAME DUCK”, PERIOD FOR THE 2026 MUNICIPAL AND SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION WHEREAS Section 11 of the Municipal Act, S.O. 2001, c. 25, as amended (the ‘Act’), provides municipalities with the ability to provide for any service of thing considered desirable and within certain spheres of jurisdiction including governance, financial management, and accountability and transparency; AND WHEREAS Section 275 of the Act restricts certain actions the Council of a local municipality can take after Nomination Day for the election of the new Council; AND WHEREAS subsection 275(6) of the Act provides that nothing in section 275 prevents any person or body exercising any authority of a municipality that is delegated to the person or body prior to Nomination Day for the election of the new Council; AND WHEREAS pursuant to section 23.1 of the Act, a municipality is authorized to delegate its powers and duties under the Act or any other Act to a person or body, subject to the restrictions set out in Part II of the Act; AND WHEREAS to ensure the efficient and effective management of The Corporation of the Municipality of Bayham during a possible Lame Duck period, it is prudent that Council delegates certain authority for that period of time; THEREFORE THE COUNCIL OF THE CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF BAYHAM ENACTS AS FOLLOWS: 1. That the Chief Administrative Officer is hereby delegated authority for: a. The appointment or removal from office of any officer of the Municipality; b. The disposition of any real or personal property of the Municipality of Bayham that has a value exceeding $50,000 at the time of disposition, except in those cases where the disposition was included in the most recent budget adopted by Council before Nomination Day in the election; and, c. Making any unbudgeted expenditures or incurring any other liability that exceeds $50,000, except in those cases where the liability was included in the most recent budget adopted by Council before Nomination Day in the election. 2. That pursuant to Section 275(4.1), nothing shall prevent the Municipality from taking any action in the event of an emergency; 3. That, should any authority delegated under this By-law be exercised, the Chief Administrative Officer shall report to Council regarding any action taken. 4. That this By-law shall come into force and effect only when Council is deemed to be Lame Duck in accordance with the Act and shall expire when Lame Duck is no longer applicable or when the Council-elect takes office. READ A FIRST, SECOND AND THIRD TIME AND FINALLY PASSED THIS 19th DAY OF MARCH 2026. ____________________________ _____________________________ MAYOR CLERK REPORT CAO TO: Mayor & Members of Council FROM: Thomas Thayer, Chief Administrative Officer DATE: March 19, 2026 REPORT: CAO-14/26 SUBJECT: EXTENSION TO SITE PLAN AGREEMENT – PHIL MAUER AND ASSOCIATES/M.G. LEASING INC. – 56954 EDEN LINE, EDEN (APPLICATION NO. SPA-03/23) BACKGROUND At its February 6, 2025 meeting, Council adopted By-law No. 2025-008, Site Plan Control By-law for the Municipality of Bayham. The CAO’s delegated authority is assigned under Section 6(1) of By-law No. 2025-008. On September 5, 2024, Council received Report CAO-35/24 re Amendment to Site Plan Agreement – Phil Mauer and Associates/M.G. Leasing Inc. – 56954 Eden Line, Eden (Application No. SPA-03/23) for information purposes only. The Report identified that, under delegated authority, the CAO entered into a Site Plan Agreement with Phil Mauer and Associates for the expansion of an existing operation on the subject lands. At its September 18, 2025 meeting, Council received Report CAO-38/25. The Report identified that the CAO approved a site plan agreement extension for Phil Mauer and Associates/M.G. Leasing Inc. Section 27 of the Agreement required the development to be complete by September 3, 2025. An extension was granted until March 3, 2026 to permit revisions to the fire pond and dry hydrant design and subsequent construction. DISCUSSION In February 2026, staff were advised that the fire pond construction would be complete by March 13, 2026. However, shortly thereafter, staff were further advised that the fire pond was not holding water properly and would require remedial attention. A further extension to the site plan agreement was requested by Phil Mauer and Associates/M.G. Leasing Inc. until May 29, 2026. Given the challenges with the fire pond, staff offered June 30, 2026 as a revised deadline, which was accepted. The amending agreement was executed by all parties on March 12, 2026 and is attached to this Report. As the CAO is the delegated authority for Site Plan Control approval and development agreement execution, this information is provided for informational purposes only. STRATEGIC PLAN Not applicable. ATTACHMENTS 1. Executed Amending Agreement between The Corporation of the Municipality of Bayham and Phil Mauer and Associates/M.G. Leasing Inc., 56954 Eden Line, Eden RECOMMENDATION 1. THAT Report CAO-14/26 re Extension to Site Plan Agreement – Phil Mauer and Associates/M.G. Leasing Inc. – 56954 Eden Line, Eden (Application No. SPA-03/23) be received for information. Respectfully Submitted by: Thomas Thayer, CMO, AOMC Chief Administrative Officer THE CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF BAYHAM BY-LAW NO. 2026-017 A BY-LAW TO DELEGATE CERTAIN RESPONSIBILITIES THROUGH THE RESTRICTED ACTS OF COUNCIL, KNOWN AS “LAME DUCK”, PERIOD FOR THE 2026 MUNICIPAL AND SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION WHEREAS Section 11 of the Municipal Act, S.O. 2001, c. 25, as amended (the ‘Act’), provides municipalities with the ability to provide for any service of thing considered desirable and within certain spheres of jurisdiction including governance, financial management, and accountability and transparency; AND WHEREAS Section 275 of the Act restricts certain actions the Council of a local municipality can take after Nomination Day for the election of the new Council; AND WHEREAS subsection 275(6) of the Act provides that nothing in section 275 prevents any person or body exercising any authority of a municipality that is delegated to the person or body prior to Nomination Day for the election of the new Council; AND WHEREAS pursuant to section 23.1 of the Act, a municipality is authorized to delegate its powers and duties under the Act or any other Act to a person or body, subject to the restrictions set out in Part II of the Act; AND WHEREAS to ensure the efficient and effective management of The Corporation of the Municipality of Bayham during a possible Lame Duck period, it is prudent that Council delegates certain authority for that period of time; THEREFORE THE COUNCIL OF THE CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF BAYHAM ENACTS AS FOLLOWS: 1. That the Chief Administrative Officer is hereby delegated authority for: a. The appointment or removal from office of any officer of the Municipality; b. The disposition of any real or personal property of the Municipality of Bayham that has a value exceeding $50,000 at the time of disposition, except in those cases where the disposition was included in the most recent budget adopted by Council before Nomination Day in the election; and, c. Making any unbudgeted expenditures or incurring any other liability that exceeds $50,000, except in those cases where the liability was included in the most recent budget adopted by Council before Nomination Day in the election. 2. That pursuant to Section 275(4.1), nothing shall prevent the Municipality from taking any action in the event of an emergency; 3. That, should any authority delegated under this By-law be exercised, the Chief Administrative Officer shall report to Council regarding any action taken. 4. That this By-law shall come into force and effect only when Council is deemed to be Lame Duck in accordance with the Act and shall expire when Lame Duck is no longer applicable or when the Council-elect takes office. READ A FIRST, SECOND AND THIRD TIME AND FINALLY PASSED THIS 19th DAY OF MARCH 2026. ____________________________ _____________________________ MAYOR CLERK THE CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF BAYHAM BY-LAW NO. 2026-018 A BY-LAW TO CONFIRM ALL ACTIONS OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF BAYHAM FOR THE COUNCIL MEETING HELD MARCH 19, 2026 WHEREAS under Section 5 (1) of the Municipal Act, 2001 S.O. 2001, Chapter 25, the powers of a municipal corporation are to be exercised by the Council of the municipality; AND WHEREAS under Section 5 (3) of the Municipal Act, 2001, the powers of Council are to be exercised by by-law; AND WHEREAS the Council of The Corporation of the Municipality of Bayham deems it advisable that the proceedings of the meeting be confirmed and adopted by by-law. THEREFORE THE COUNCIL OF THE CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF BAYHAM ENACTS AS FOLLOWS: 1. THAT the actions of the Council of The Corporation of the Municipality of Bayham in respect of each recommendation and each motion and resolution passed and other action by the Council at the Council meeting held March 19, 2026 is hereby adopted and confirmed as if all proceedings were expressly embodied in this by-law. 2. THAT the Mayor and Clerk of The Corporation of the Municipality of Bayham are hereby authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to the action of the Council including executing all documents and affixing the Corporate Seal. READ A FIRST, SECOND AND THIRD TIME AND FINALLY PASSED THIS 19th DAY OF MARCH, 2026. ____________________________ _____________________________ MAYOR CLERK