EMBRUN – Russell Township council dealt with a wide-ranging agenda during its regular meeting on May 25, approving the municipality’s 2025 audited financial statements, granting noise bylaw exemptions for upcoming summer events, and launching a planning process for several recreation facilities.
Audited financial statements approved
Council approved the township’s 2025 audited financial statements following a presentation by auditing firm MNP LLP. Members of council commended the firm’s work and recognized municipal finance staff for their efforts in completing the annual audit process.
Residents interested in reviewing the audited financial statements can request a copy by emailing finances@russell.ca. The report will be distributed once it becomes available.
Noise exemptions granted for summer events
Council approved two exemptions to the township’s noise bylaw to accommodate outdoor entertainment during major community celebrations.
The first exemption will allow outdoor music during Canada Day festivities from 11 p.m. on June 30 until 1:30 a.m. on July 1.
A second exemption was approved for Summerfest/Célébrons ensemble, permitting outdoor music from 11 p.m. until 1 a.m. on June 12-13 and again on June 13-14.
New digital community board for Marionville
Council approved the replacement of the bulletin board at the Marionville Community Centre with a new digital information board.
The project is being undertaken in partnership with the United Counties of Prescott and Russell, the Municipality of North Dundas and the City of Ottawa. The digital board is intended to improve communication with residents, promote local events and strengthen community connections throughout Marionville.
Recreation facilities master plan to begin
Council has authorized the development of a master plan for several recreation facilities that will become available once the township’s new recreation complex opens.
The planning process will focus on the future use of the Russell Arena, Embrun Arena, Camille Piché Community Centre and Russell Centennial Pool. Municipal officials say the master plan will help establish a long-term vision for the facilities while considering operational, financial and community needs.
Public consultation will be a key component of the process. Residents will have opportunities to provide input through open houses and an online survey scheduled for the summer months.
CAO granted authority during election period
Council also approved a bylaw delegating certain decision-making powers to the township’s chief administrative officer during the municipal election “lame duck” period.
Under Ontario’s Municipal Act, councils facing restricted authority after nomination day may be limited in the decisions they can make before a new council is sworn in. The bylaw will allow the CAO to make certain operational decisions between Aug. 24 and Nov. 16, helping ensure municipal services continue without interruption.
The next regular meeting of Russell Township council is scheduled for June 8 at 6 p.m.
Council agendas, minutes and meeting schedules are available on the township’s website, and full meetings can be viewed on the municipality’s YouTube channel.
Terry Tinkess is a professional photographer, educator and journalist. He has been making a living with a camera and keyboard since 1999 and has been featured in such publications as The Ottawa Citizen, Cornwall Standard Freeholder, The Globe and Mail, The Miami Herald, Ottawa Construction News, The Ontario Construction Report, Ontario Home Builder Magazine, Reed Construction Data, Canadian Potato Business and most recently, The Record and Eastern Ontario AgriNews. Terry lives in Ingleside, Ontario with his wife Brenda, Mia the anxious Pittie and cats Wally and Chubbers.
