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Councillor Update - April 17, 2026

  • cathyaylard
  • 5 hours ago
  • 4 min read

What is a Round-up?

Round-ups are my way of sharing key updates in one place. With so much information coming at us every day, I hope these updates cut through the chaos and make it easier to stay informed. I publish them about a week before each Council meeting, when the agenda is released. I include links to reports for anyone who wants to dig deeper. I also highlight a few lighter items, such as community events, local initiatives, and the special things that make our community vibrant.

I choose this format over social media because it allows for clarity and accuracy without the

distractions of those platforms. It gives me space to share information thoughtfully, and it gives you a place to read it without all the noise.

Stay engaged!

Cathy



Council usually meets twice a month on the second and fourth Thursdays. Schedule here. Council agendas are released on the Friday before the Thursday meeting. Council members get them at the same time as the public and have about five days to read everything, meet with staff, and dig into the details. It’s a lot to cover in a short stretch. After each meeting, there’s a one‑week pause before the next agenda drops, and then the cycle starts again.


Coming up at Council on April 23, 2026

Presentations

  • The Social and Economic Impact of the Equine Industry in Ontario - Ontario Harness Horse Association

  • Farmers Dash - Fundraiser Barrel Race

  • Waste Water Project Update

Reports

  • Target Sector Study - Economic Development

  • Repeal Municipal Election Recount Policy

  • Q1 2026 - First Quarter Financial Report


As always, you can attend the meeting in person, listen to the live stream or watch the recording at your convenience.


What Happened at Council


  • Q4 - Quarterly Report Budget - Deficit

Unacceptable! I put forward the following motion, which was passed unanimously, directing staff to conduct a comprehensive review of the 2026 budget to identify potential savings, efficiencies and deferrals and report back to Council by May 15 with a recovery and control plan for 2026, with an explicit objective to restore the total deficit and replenish the tax stabilization reserve. 




  • Hillsburgh Gravel Pit - I continue to receive questions on this topic. Please refer to this past bulletin, which includes links to all files and meetings.


Current Development Applications



Coming Soon!

Waste Water Project update is on the April 23 agenda - presentation here.

Stay tuned to Erin Engaged for important updates on sewer connections.



Fast Fact: This year, $341 (per household) of your tax dollars will be invested in Parks and Recreation. Report here.



There is something for everyone in the Town's expanded recreational programming.




Youth Week - May 1 to 8, 2026

Youth Week is a province-wide initiative celebrated by municipalities across Ontario. It’s a time to highlight youth voice, encourage participation, and provide fun, accessible opportunities for young people to get involved. We are celebrating Youth Week from May 1 to May 8 with a variety of free, youth-focused activities at the Erin Community Centre!



STEAM - Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math

WonderBox Introduce your growing innovator to fun, hands-on experiments blended with foundational STEAM learning. Participants will build, test, and explore through creative challenges such as kaleidoscopes, lava lamps, bridge building, and catapults - learning the “how” and “why” behind each project. Register here



Seniors Programs

Seniors in Erin now have FREE access to daily live Zoom classes in fitness, wellness, creative arts, and social connection. Register here.




The Town of Erin has been recognized as one of Southwestern Ontario’s Top Employers for 2025, an annual competition that celebrates outstanding workplaces across the region.

I’ve seen a significant shift in the culture of the organization over the past two years, creating a healthier and more positive workplace. As I reflect on my journey as a first‑time councillor, I know these changes have strengthened my ability to contribute meaningfully. Even with this progress, there’s still room to grow and continue moving toward the full potential we’re aiming for. A motivated staff is essential to carrying out Council’s direction effectively.




Fast Fact: This year, your tax dollars will support 21 local organizations through $30,000 in Community Grants. Find the report here.


Click here for the full list of community events, including links for more details.

Here are some of the events happening next week!


And a look at What's On for 2026!


Fast Fact: In 13 days, candidates can formally begin filing their nomination papers to run for office. Ontario 2026 Candidates' Guide


Let's work together to create a respectful environment where our neighbours feel comfortable stepping up to serve our community. I am fully committed to encouraging active engagement. I recently introduced a list of resources to support those who are considering running for office. More information here.



The future of our Town depends on dedicated individuals who feel empowered to lead.

The When You Believe campaign by the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) is an initiative to encourage diverse and dedicated individuals to run for municipal office in the 2026 elections by highlighting the profound impact local leadership has on community life. Video





Note

This website is personally funded and maintained by Cathy Aylard.

No public funds or municipal resources are used in its creation or operation.

All views expressed are my own.

Please reach out if you need further information. I can be reached at cathyaylard@gmail.com.


Cathy





 
 
 

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