Council Highlights April 14, 2025

Council Highlights offer a summary of crucial decisions or agenda items discussed in Council meetings, aiming to give residents a snapshot of the meeting proceedings.
The Durham Agricultural Advisory Committee Annual Update was presented to Council. The presentation included updates on the North Durham On-Farm Diversified Uses Project, skilled programs and transportation issues. The Committee also shared major issues facing agriculture in Durham Region that include:
-
Backyard chickens and Avian Influenza
-
Stormwater Management fees on agricultural properties
-
On farm diversified uses
-
Transportation of goods
-
Price of agricultural land
-
Need for more meat processing capacity
-
Policy leading to increased costs for farmers, i.e. tariffs
Durham Student Transportation Services has requested a sidewalk to be installed on Regional Road 12 from Brock Highschool east towards Side Road 18A and connecting to the existing sidewalk. Staff have conducted further investigation on costing for engineering, construction and all other associated costs for the request and staff are estimating the total cost will be in excess of $1,000,000.00. Council has voted for a defer until a delegation by Durham Student Transport Serves is received.
Council has approved contracts for road gravel tender and double surface treatment and slurry seal tender for spring and summer road maintenance. Council has requested an update on the Roads Rehabilitation and Forecasting Plan.
Council has approved repair work on the elevator at the Beaverton Town Hall to be funded by the Building Capital Reserve.
Due to the substantial ice and snow buildup experienced this winter, many buildings and properties, including Township properties, have incurred damage which includes such things as leaks and exterior damages to eavestroughs, fascia and soffits. The unforeseen winter repair expenses are to be funded from the Operating Budget and will be conducted as soon as possible to the following locations.
-
Beaverton Thorah Health Centre
-
Beaverton Town Hall
-
Foster Hewitt Memorial Community Centre
-
Beaverton Public Library
-
Cannington Curling Club
-
Manilla Hall
-
Municipal Administration Building
-
Beaverton Garage (Franklin)
-
Dench Animal Shelter and Sunderland Fire Station
Council has approved the use of internet, paper “ballot on demand” and phone voting for the 2026 Municipal & School Board Elections.
Docs for Durham 2024 annual report was presented to Council to outline Physician Recruitment in the Region.
Council has requested that the Province of Ontario Municipal Affairs and Housing activate the Disaster Recovery Assistance for Ontario Program to help residents recover costs after natural disasters that are not covered by insurance coverage.