Township News
October/November 2025

Council Meeting Schedule

Regularly scheduled Meetings of Council for the months of October and November, 2025 will take place on the following dates: 

Council Meetings:
Wednesday, October 8th – 3:00 p.m. Public Session
Wednesday, October 22nd – 3:00 p.m. Public Session
Wednesday, November 12th – 3:00 p.m. Public Session
Wednesday, November 26th – 3:00 p.m. Public Session 

Development Services Committee Meetings:
Wednesday, October 1st – 5:30 p.m.
Wednesday, November 5th – 5:30 p.m. 

All meeting times are subject to change, and Special Meetings of Council may also be called on an as needed basis. For a complete schedule of 2025 Council meetings, please visit the Council Portal available through our website – bit.ly/3Gz6S1B. 

Please Note:  Township Council Chambers are open to the public. To ensure safety of the public, members of Council, and staff, room capacity limits are in place. 

Virtual attendance is available, with Council meetings following a hybrid format and continued live-streaming. Members of the public are welcome to view Special Council and Development Services Committee Meetings via livestream on the Township’s YouTube channel. 

Public Participation in Electronic Meetings

The Township of Oro-Medonte’s Procedural By-law allows for electronic participation at Council meetings. Protocols have been established to advise how to participate in the public portions of these meetings.  Please visit Council | Township of Oro-Medonte for more information, including how to participate in Open Forum or request a deputation/presentation.

Live Streaming

Township of Oro-Medonte Council meetings are live streamed. To view meetings live, visit bit.ly/41PEpiX and subscribe to the Township’s YouTube channel – Township of Oro-Medonte.

Simcoe Woods Community Centre Update

The Simcoe Woods Community Centre opened on September 2, 2025. Many of the Township’s recreation programs, fitness classes, drop-ins, and activities will be offered from this brand-new facility. Be sure to review the 2025 Fall Recreation Guide for details, and stop in to see the new community space/facility.

Fall Recreation Programs and Registration

Registration is open for fall recreation programs. The Township is offering a variety of programs for pre-school, children, and adults, along with fitness classes and drop-in options. To learn about program offerings and registration information, please see the 2025 Fall Recreation Guide.

2025/26 Ice Skating Schedule for the Oro-Medonte Community Arena

Engage Oro-Medonte – the Township’s new Digital Engagement Platform

We are pleased to announce the launch of our new digital engagement platform, Engage Oro-Medonte, to enhance communication, interaction, and engagement with the Oro-Medonte community. Engage Oro-Medonte is a space designed to connect, collaborate, and share ideas providing an opportunity for residents, businesses, and stakeholders to stay informed, participate in discussions, and provide input on projects, initiatives, and decisions, that shape the future of our community. Please take time to visit engage.oro-medonte.ca, sign up for an account, and review current projects.

Streetlight Information

With the arrival of fall, daylight hours will shorten.  Streetlights are controlled by an individual photocell that turns lights on and off based on light levels – streetlights turn on when it gets dark, and off when it gets light.  If a streetlight is out on your street, please report the streetlight that is not working to the Environmental Services department at 705-487-2171. For additional information on streetlights including a comprehensive video, please visit Streetlights | Township of Oro-Medonte.

Climate Action Plan

The Township has developed a Climate Action Plan to become a more resilient, innovative, and sustainable community. Developed through the Partners for Climate Protection’s 5-Milestone Framework, the Climate Action Plan is grounded in field-validated data, staff expertise, and meaningful community engagement. The Plan’s overarching goal is to reduce municipal greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions while supporting and enhancing municipal operations. To review the plan and for additional information, please visit Climate Action Plan | Township of Oro-Medonte.

City of Barrie Boundary Expansion Request

To keep up-to-date regarding the City of Barrie’s boundary expansion request, please visit oro-medonte.ca/cbber. Memorandums and presentations prepared by Hemson Consulting, background information including staff reports, Open Letters to the Oro-Medonte community, Oro-Medonte Council motions, and frequently asked questions etc. are available for review. Additional/new information will be provided on this dedicated webpage – please check back often.

Digital Parking Permits

The Township has fully transitioned to digital parking permits for all Oro-Medonte residents and non-residents available through HonkMobile. To obtain your two (2) free digital parking permits, and to review a list of frequently asked questions, please visit Parking | Township of Oro-Medonte.

E-billing Option for Tax and Utility Account Bills

The Township is pleased to offer Oro-Medonte residents the option to receive tax and utility account bills by e-mail. To sign up for e-billing with delivery to your inbox, please visit Paperless E-Billing Sign-up Form – Township of Oro-Medonte.

Open Air Burn Permits

In accordance with the Township’s Fees and Charges By-law No. 2024-094, please note there is a $10.00 fee for all Open Air Burn Permits. The fee may be paid online by visiting Burn Permits – Township of Oro-Medonte or in person at the Administration Centre. For information regarding open air burning, please visit  Open Air Burning | Township of Oro-Medonte. We appreciate your understanding.

Oro-Medonte Fire & Emergency Services Home Fire and Life Safety Audit Program

Oro-Medonte Fire & Emergency Services (OMFES) has implemented a Home Fire & Life Safety Audit Program for Oro-Medonte residents. The program aims to:

  • Enhance fire safety in your home
  • Identify and mitigate potential risks
  • Ensure your compliance with the Ontario Fire Code
  • Assess fire protection and detection devices
  • Ensure you have working smoke & CO alarms where required
  • Review your home escape plan
  • Provide expert advice on home fire protection equipment

Please take advantage of this program to make your home safer by calling OMFES at 705-487-2171 to book your appointment.

Oro-Medonte Fire & Emergency Services is on Linktree

Please scan the QR code to join Oro-Medonte Fire & Emergency Services (OMFES) on Linktree. You will find important and helpful information about OMFES including fire prevention, public education, events, and community updates. This is a great way to stay connected and safe in Oro-Medonte.

 

 

Water Bill Payments

Water Bills

Water usage is billed quarterly, with payment due dates falling on the last business day of February, May, August, and November. Please note the third quarterly water bill payment for 2025 is due by Friday, November 28th. 

To assist with keeping track of the Township’s water billing schedule, please see below:

Water Billing Schedule
Usage Period Bills Mailed Payment Due Last Business Day of:
January – March April May
April – June July August
July – September October November
October – December January February

Additional Payment Option
The Township is pleased to offer an additional payment option by credit card, Interac e-transfer, in-person at a post office using cash or debit, and PayPal. This service is being offered through PaySimply.ca, a secure, third party Canadian payment provider. All fees are paid directly to PaySimply.  Please note the Township does not retain any portion of the fee. You will be notified of the fee amount prior to your payment being processed. You will also receive an email confirmation of your transaction including fees paid. 

For complete details regarding payment options for your property tax and water bills including the Township’s pre-authorized payment program, please visit How to Pay Your Tax & Utility Bills | Township of Oro-Medonte or contact the Finance Department at 705-487-2171.

 

Milestone Celebration Certificates

If you or a loved one is celebrating a milestone birthday or anniversary, Mayor Greenlaw and Members of Council are pleased to offer congratulatory certificates to help commemorate these special occasions. To request a celebration certificate, please visit Milestone Certificate | Township of Oro-Medonte.

Township Social Media Channels

General Township information that might be of interest can be found by visiting and following the Township’s social media channels:

Facebook at
Township of Oro-Medonte | Facebook

Instagram at
Township of Oro-Medonte (@oromedontetwp)

X/Twitter at
Twp. of Oro-Medonte (@TwpOroMedonte) / Twitter

Upcoming Office Closures

The Township Administration Centre will be closed on the following days:

  • Tuesday, September 30th in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
  • Monday, October 13th for Thanksgiving
  • Tuesday, November 11th in observance of Remembrance Day

Regular business hours will resume at 8:30 a.m. following each closure.

Calendar of Activities Available for Older Adults in Simcoe County

The County of Simcoe has launched an age-friendly calendar highlighting various events and activities available for older adults in Simcoe County. To learn more, please visit agefriendlyactivities.simcoe.ca.

Simcoe County Archives Re-Opened

After eight (8) months of renovations, the Simcoe County Archives has officially reopened, and is pleased to welcome you back. For details, please see Simcoe County Archives Re-Opens to Public After Undergoing Renovations – Simcoe County.

Please Support Local Business

Suggested ways of how you can support local businesses:
  • When possible, buy local
  • Look for local farm gate sales, buy from local producers
  • Purchase from local businesses by visiting in person or shopping online
  • Order local meals for takeout or delivery
  • Share messages about local businesses through social media
  • Share businesses social posts through your social media channels
  • Write positive reviews of businesses you have visited
  • Purchase gift certificates now that can be used later

Township of Oro-Medonte News
148 Line 7 South, Oro-Medonte, Ontario LOL 2E0
Phone: (705) 487-2171
Fax: (705) 487-0133
Email: info@oro-medonte.ca

2024-2027
Strategic Plan Update


Mid-term Snapshot

The 2024-2027 Strategic Plan is a roadmap that outlines the Township’s vision for the future, and steps that will be taken to achieve success. Since adoption of the Strategic Plan, the Township has made meaningful strides across key areas of focus, while also navigating new opportunities and challenges.

Following a focused, balanced, and responsible approach, Council is now at the halfway point of the Strategic Plan; and together with Township staff, is proud of the accomplishments that have been completed to date.

As Council continues to serve the Oro-Medonte community, priorities remain clear –  financial sustainability, community engagement, a balanced approach to respectful and responsible development, community safety, and strengthened operational capacity.

Please take time to review a mid-term snapshot of the initiatives, services, and accomplishments outlined below.

The 2024-2027 Strategic Plan continues to identify key areas of focus that will guide decision-making, resource allocation, and service delivery across Township departments and divisions. To review the full Strategic Plan, please visit Strategic Plan 2024-2027 | Township of Oro-Medonte.

The Township of Oro-Medonte’s 2024-2027 Strategic Plan serves as the road-map that guides Council’s decision-making

Mission

The Township of Oro-Medonte provides valuable services to residents, business owners, and visitors; ensuring opportunities for success through environmental stewardship, and responsible and sustainable growth, to ensure a safe and healthy environment for current and future generations.

Vision

We are a progressive, collaborative, vibrant, environmentally
conscious community, where everyone can live, work and play.

Values

RESPECT     INTEGRITY     SERVICE EXCELLENCE     STEWARDSHIP

Financial Sustainability

  • Fulfilled Asset Retirement Obligations (ARO) and developed ARO Policy
  • Updated Asset Management Plan for all municipal assets and increased contributions to reserve funding in 2025 and 2026 budgets.
  • Updated and approved new Development Charges Background Study and By-law to plan for future development related infrastructure needs
  • Reviewed and updated the Township’s Fees & Charges By-law reducing the general tax levy
  • Realized a 40% reduction in drainage related requests for service (58% from 2020 levels) following maintenance focus in this area
  • Joined CANOE Procurement Group of Canada, strengthening purchasing power
  • Undertook alternative dispute resolution processes to bring resolve to several legacy issues resulting in legal cost avoidance
  • Completion of update/revision to Building and Planning fees
  • Implementation of the Administrative Monetary Penalty System (AMPS) as an efficient alternative to the Provincial Court system to address Municipal offences
  • Inaugural member of the County of Simcoe insurance pool resulting in projected savings over the first 5 year period in excess of $1.35 million
  • Received external financial grants and capital project contributions in excess of $1.7 million.
Community Engagement and Trust
  • Launched an enhanced community engagement and education program regarding Township services and the budget/business planning process
  • Development of a Community Engagement Policy and launch of engagement platform
  • Enhanced engagement and notification of planning applications through engagement platform
  • Community Engagement formed an integral part of the Comprehensive Zoning By-law review and strengthening regulations pertaining to short term rental accommodations
  • Development of Recreation Fee Assistance Program to reduce financial barriers for participation in community programs
  • Completion of Milestones 1-3 of the Partners for Climate Protection (PCP) Program
  • Seeking to strengthen protection of the Oro Moraine through identification as a core Municipal Infrastructure Asset and a Green Infrastructure Asset
Employment Lands
  • Completed Business Retention, Expansion and Attraction Engagement program with the Oro-Medonte business community and vacant employment landowners.
  • Produced an updated Community Profile as a tool for investment readiness
  • Ongoing build out of Township Industrial Parks and commercial areas with building permits issued for over 250,000 sq. ft of new industrial and/or commercial space since 2022
Community Safety
  • Ongoing efforts by Council and staff to protect municipal boundaries and active participation in regional growth discussions to optimize benefits to the Township
  • Identification of community safety hot spots and installation of 14 new Community Safety Zones
  • Roadside safety improvements including installation of 1038m of guiderails
  • Zero (0) non-conformances in Drinking Water Quality Management System (DWQMS) internal and external audits
  • 100% inspection rating on Ministry of the Environment Conservation and Parks inspected drinking water systems
  • Enhanced maintenance and focus on urban stormwater systems – increase in asset inventory and regulatory requirements of consolidated linear infrastructure approvals
  • Replacement of deficient pedestrian crossing located in Warminster and receipt of Provincial funding of more than $250,000 to complete the project
  • Implementation of the Couchiching OPP Detachment Board
  • Adoption of the 2025-2029 Couchiching Community Safety & Well Being Plan
  • Received tanker shuttle accreditation for residential and commercial purposes
  • Led the rapid response and recovery regarding the 2025 Ice Storm
  • Ongoing enforcement of Ontario Building Code and Municipal By-laws
Well Planned Development
  • Updated Site Plan Control By-law
  • Completion of 3 drainage outlets to address legacy drainage issues
  • Construction of the Horseshoe Valley School and Community Centre on track for occupancy in Fall 2025
  • Craighurst Crossing future municipal water and wastewater infrastructure construction underway
  • Initiation of Growth Management Plan in 2025
  • Guthrie Industrial Park drainage and fire protection infrastructure project completed
Strengthen Operational Capacity
  • Ongoing corporate digital transformation resulting in significant process improvement, efficiency, and enhanced customer service including:
  • Launch of ADP Recruitment Platform and transfer of employee documents and training records into Human Resources Information System. Implemented digital records (i.e. employee files) to centralize records which resulted in improved access, ensured compliance and reduced administrative tasks
  • Implementation of Cloud Permit for Building Permit and Planning Application submissions, review, and payment. Cloud Permit is now also utilized for Municipal Law occurrence management and reporting
  • Implementation of Honk Mobile app for day parking
  • Implementation of digital phone system
  • Continued application of the Municipal Service Corporation (MSC) pertaining to governance of the Environmental Services division
  • Completion and initial implementation of department service reviews resulting in operational efficiencies and service delivery improvements
  • Continued implementation of citizen centred service culture

Township of Oro-Medonte News
148 Line 7 South, Oro-Medonte, Ontario LOL 2E0
Phone: (705) 487-2171
Fax: (705) 487-0133
Email: info@oro-medonte.ca