Council-in-Committee Meeting Summary – October 15, 2025
Norfolk County Council-in-Committee met on Wednesday, October 15, 2025. Below are highlights from the meeting. The meeting was held in Council Chambers and streamed online. View the meeting agenda, reports and time-stamped video.
Council meetings determine final decisions based on recommendations from the Council-in-Committee meeting two weeks prior. Once approved, meeting Minutes will be posted on the Council and Committee Calendar.
Housing affordability
Local builder Sam Bunting presented a deputation outlining challenges in the housing market, including:
• A 60% drop in new home sales
• High land and construction costs
• Calls for development charge relief and HST rebate advocacy
Council noted financial requests must be addressed during budget deliberations.
Port Dover Marina dredging
Paul Lipit, representing the Long Point Bay Yacht Club, provided a deputation to urge Council to prioritize dredging at Port Dover Marina due to low water levels. Council supported sending a letter to the province advocating for regulatory changes and funding support.
Blue Box recycling transition
Council discussed the end of co-collection for non-residential recycling under Ontario’s Blue Box program. Staff presented three options:
1. Private collection by businesses.
2. County-run opt-in curbside program.
3. Drop-off at transfer stations.
Council deferred the decision to the October 28, 2025, meeting to allow staff to gather more information.
St. John’s Road traffic control
Staff recommended roundabouts at Blue Line Road and Cockshutt Road once traffic warrants are met. Council supported continued monitoring and planning for future implementation.
Ice Allocation Policy
Council reviewed a proposed Ice Allocation Policy aimed at fair access to County ice surfaces. Key elements included:
• Allocation based on team count and level of play.
• Residency requirement (95%) for subsidized rates.
• Cancellation penalties for unused ice.
After extensive debate, Council deferred the policy to the November Council-in-Committee meeting for further review and feedback.
Marina dredging report
Staff presented a report outlining the scope and cost of dredging at Port Dover and Port Rowan marinas. Council supported staff’s recommendation to proceed with further investigation and return with options in December 2025.
Business registry system
Council approved transitioning from a business licensing model to a business registry system starting in 2026. The registry will:
• Simplify the process for businesses.
• Focus on zoning compliance and data collection.
• Include a $25 annual fee.
Procedural Bylaw Review
Council directed staff to revise the draft procedural bylaw and return with updates. Topics included:
• Clarifying the role of acting mayor during extended absences.
• Rules around pulling items from committee minutes.
• Media permissions for recording meetings.
Notice of Motion
Mayor Martin introduced a notice of motion requesting provincial support for gas well documentation and transparency related to forestry and farm roads.
Community Announcements
• Waterford Pumpkinfest runs October 18–20 with fireworks, parade, and family activities.
• Disc Golf Park Grand Opening at Windham Centre on October 19.
• Municipal Accommodation Tax Info Session in Port Dover on October 23.
Next Council Meeting
Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at 1:00 p.m.
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