A public presentation from a local resident was received concerning the intersection of Arthur Street and Munger Street East in Harrow. The delegate shared concerns of oncoming traffic being obscured by parked vehicles when crossing Arthur Street at the intersection of Munger St E. The delegate requested a 4-way stop be considered for the safety of the public.  

Council directed Administration to prepare a report on the request and its impacts. 

A public presentation from Cynthia Swift, Lead Audit Engagement Partner, KPMG LLP was received concerning the 2025 Audited Financial Statements and Audit Findings Report. 

The 2025 Audited Financial Statements and Audit Findings Report were adopted as presented.  

A public presentation was received from Julia Baldesarra, Senior Advisor, Municipal Relations, and Rachel Van Fraassen, Senior Manager, Municipal Relations, Hydro One regarding an update on Hydro One.  

The Hydro One Update Presentation included information regarding how Hydro One is investing in the community by continuing to deliver safe and reliable power, forging community partnerships, and providing residents with great customer service.   

Council Received Report 2026-08 entitled E.L.K. Energy Inc. Legacy Investment. The report outlines recommended updates to the Town's Investment Policy to strengthen how municipal funds are managed, including the newly established E.L.K. Legacy Fund. The proposed amendments are intended to improve accountability, transparency and flexibility while ensuring investments continue to prioritize protecting public funds, maintaining sufficient cash flow for municipal operations and achieving competitive returns within the rules set out by the Municipal Act, 2001.  

Council approved the establishment of a new internally restricted Reserve Fund, entitled E.L.K. Legacy Reserve, the purpose for which is to hold the remaining closing proceeds for the sale of 100% of the shares in E.L.K. Energy Inc. and E.L.K. Solutions Inc. 

Council adopted the investment strategy with the change of 10% of annual investment income be allocated towards new core capital projects, and 20% reinvested to grow the fund over time. 

Council directed Administration to include in the 2027 Draft Budget both the estimated investment income and allocations of such income. 

Council received Economic Development Report 2026-07 entitled Economic Development Mid-Year Update for information. The report contains key highlights and initiatives from Q1 and Q2 2026 including business engagement, grant activity, tourism initiatives, and more. Of mention, the Town has secured $278,478 in grand funding YTD. View the infographic to learn about the key accomplishments.  

Council received Drainage Report 2026-13 entitled Langlois-Arner Drain & Colchester Heights Drainage Scheme Amendment to Engineer’s Report. 

Council supported an amendment to the engineer’s report for the Langlois-Arner Drain and Colchester Heights Drainage Scheme after unexpected issues were encountered during construction. Sediment repeatedly clogged the new drain outlet, causing water to back up, and a new baffle wall system has been recommended to improve drainage and prevent future blockages. The amendment includes approving an additional $113,971.20 in construction work by the existing contractor, with all costs to be paid by the developer, resulting in no financial impact to the Town. 

Council received Drainage Report 2026-14 entitled Drainage Works Roster List. In accordance with the Town Procurement By-Law Number 2437, Council approval is required for purchases in excess of $130,000 including one time purchase or accumulated. 

Council authorized the acceptance of the prequalified bidders for RFPQ-ID-26-013 contained within this report.  

Council received Development Services Report 2026-14 entitled New Official Plan Additional Budget Request. The report highlights the additional funds required to fund additional consulting services required to complete the Town’s New Official Plan Project. 

Council approved an additional budget allocation of $36,993.38 including non-refundable HST, from the Development Charge Reserve, to fund a Change Order for additional consulting services required to complete the Town's New Official Plan Project, being Capital Project #PZ-22-0002. 

Council received Parks and Facilities Report 2026-05 entitled Colchester Harbour Service Levels. Administration presented a report responding to a Notice of Motion regarding operations at the Colchester Harbour. The report addresses key topics including staffing and emergency preparedness, dock maintenance and safety, parking and traffic, harbour services, cleanliness and maintenance, seasonal operations, and other operational improvements identified by Council and harbour users. 

Council directed Administration to add “Item 11 – Upgraded Electrical User Fee” to the 2027 Fees and Charges By-Law, and to include “Item 9 – New Pump-out Station” in the 2027 budget deliberations. 

Council appointed Robert DiMenna to the Drainage Board. 

By-Law 2543 being a by-law to authorize the execution of a lease agreement between The Corporation of the Town of Essex and Parks Canada for office space at the Harrow and Colchester South Community Centre, located at 243 McAffee Street, Harrow. 

By-Law 2547 being a By-Law for the declaration and disposition of surplus lands (Town of Essex Gesto Office at 2610 County Road 12) by the Corporation of the Town of Essex. 

By-Law 2550 being a By-Law to confirm the proceedings of the July 6, 2026, Regular Meeting of Council of the Corporation of the Town of Essex. 

By-Law 2551 being a By-Law to Establish an Affordable Housing Subsidy Program in the Town of Essex. 

By-Law 2555 being a By-Law to confirm the proceedings of the July 20, 2026, Regular Meeting of Council of the Corporation of the Town of Essex.