Council Meeting Summary – November 25, 2025

Norfolk County Council met on Tuesday, November 25, 2025. View the meeting agenda, video and reports online.     

Below are highlights from the meeting. 

Ceremonial recognitions 

• Governor General's Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal was presented to Jennifer Hancock, Tiiu Jaanusson, and Steve Potz for outstanding dedication to emergency medical services. 
• Brian Suggett was recognized for 40 years of volunteer service with the Simcoe and District Youth Soccer Club, including leadership roles and contributions to local sports development. 

Agenda changes and consent items 

• Agenda Updates: Council added two communications regarding opposition to proposed provincial consolidation of conservation authorities and a deputation related to energy projects. 
• Conservation authorities: Council directed the Mayor to send a letter to the Province requesting more time and consultation before amalgamating Ontario’s 36 conservation authorities into seven. 
• Consent and communications: User fees and service charges report received; nine communications items received for information. 

Energy projects 

Watch recorded video

Council approved Municipal Support Resolutions for three proposals under the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) Long-Term Capacity Request for Proposals (RFP).  

1. Norfolk Resilient Generation Inc. – Proposed natural gas facility on Highway 3. 
2. NRStor Inc. – Proposed 150 megawatt (MW) battery energy storage project on industrial lands near Simcoe. 
3. Skyline Clean Energy – Proposed 30 MW battery energy storage project at an existing solar site on Windham Road 13. 

What is a Municipal Support Resolution? 

A Municipal Support Resolution (MSR) is not project approval. It’s a formal statement from Council confirming that Norfolk County is a willing host for a proposed energy project, provided all required planning and environmental approvals are met. 

What it does not do: 

• It does not grant building permits or zoning changes 
• It does not commit the municipality to final approval 
• All normal reviews and public consultations still apply 

It is step one in a long process: if the company wins a provincial contract, they must still return to Norfolk County for full approvals. 

Planning and Development 

Watch recorded video

• Approved a zoning by-law amendment for 129 Queensway East, Simcoe, to allow full use of Shopping Centre Commercial zoning and remove outdated restrictions. 

Budget 

Watch recorded video

• Adopted the 2026 Levy Capital Budget and received the 10-year capital forecast. 
• Council waived the remaining amendment period under strong mayor powers, allowing staff to proceed with implementation. 

Bylaws 

• Council passed various administrative and operational bylaws related to County business. 

Upcoming community events 

• Simcoe Panorama Light-Up: Saturday, November 29 at 6 p.m. 
• Delhi Santa Claus Parade: Saturday, December 6 
• Langton Santa Claus Parade: Saturday, December 13