EMBRUN – In addition to receiving the first draft of the 2026 budget, Russell Council dealt with a full agenda during their regularly scheduled meeting of Oct. 14.

Internet and telephone alternative voting methods approved for 2026

With the 2026 municipal elections just over a year away, Council approved a by-law authorizing the use of internet and telephone as an alternative voting method for the 2026 Municipal Elections and any subsequent by-election in the following term of Council. They authorized the Clerk to sign an award letter with Voatz Canada Ltd. for the supply of an internet and telephone voting system for the 2026 municipal elections that reflects the terms of the Request for Proposal (RFP).

Administration will be updating the Township’s website and social media to inform the electors of the voting method and important dates.

Fireworks by-law amendment

To be a more inclusive community, Council approved an amendment to the Fireworks By-law to add Diwali – The Festival of Lights as a holiday celebrated on the new moon of the Hindu lunar calendar.

Automated speed enforcement program on hold

An update was provided to Council on the speed camera project, informing them that the project is currently on hold pending the outcome of proposed legislation changes by the Provincial Government. It was reported through various broadcast media on Oct. 21 that an omnibus bill to be tabled by the provincial Conservative government contains legislation banning the use of speed cameras.

Recreation Complex Financial Update

Construction of the Recreation Complex is progressing, and the Township has secured a major financial advantage thanks to a $10 million provincial contribution through the CSRIF program. This funding directly reduces the amount the Township needs to borrow, lowering the long-term loan by the full $10 million. At the current interest rate of 4.65 per cent over 25 years, this results in more than $6.9 million in interest savings. The rate itself is also slightly lower than the 4.72 per cent previously projected, which further improves long-term sustainability.

During construction, the Township has also taken proactive steps to reduce financing costs. Rather than drawing immediately on external borrowing, internal funds have been used to fund expenditures wherever possible. Combined with a temporary financing rate of just 2.99 per cent, significantly lower than the 5.42 per cent assumed in earlier forecasts, this approach is forecast to generate approximately $2 million in savings compared to the initial budget.

The overall project budget has also improved. The total cost has decreased from $104.3 million to $102.29 million, and the required borrowing has been reduced from $79.9 million to $66.37 million. Contingency spending remains well under control, with only $968,041 used to date out of the $4.9 million contingency allocation.

Fire department action plan

Like many other communities in eastern Ontario, Russell Council is dealing with a Fire Department Organizational Review.  The 2025 Action Plan, which was developed because of the review, addresses several recommendations regarding levels of service, facility needs, and opportunities to align with best practices for emergency response.

This action plan provides Council with options to guide decision-making as they continue efforts to balance community safety, operational effectiveness, and fiscal responsibility.

The next Council meeting will be Mon., Oct. 27, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.