LAURIE WEIR
Smiths Falls council tackled a wide range of operational and infrastructure matters during its June 9 committee of the whole meeting, approving website improvements, new signage and trail access, an updated asset management strategy, traffic signal upgrades, a refreshed parkette agreement, and a change to the town’s flag protocol.
Traffic signal contract awarded to Partham Engineering
A $116,500 contract was awarded to Partham Engineering Ltd. to upgrade traffic signal controllers and install microwave detection and emergency vehicle pre-emption systems at two intersections: Cornelia and Elmsley streets, and Queen Street and Old Slys Road. The project came in over budget by $16,500, but staff proposed reallocating surplus funds from a separate pedestrian crossover project that finished under budget to make up the difference.
New signage and barricades approved for events, emergencies
Council authorized an out-of-budget expenditure of up to $20,000 for portable signage, barricades and weighted stands to assist with temporary road closures during special events and emergency situations. The equipment will be added to the Town’s rental inventory, allowing community groups to borrow the materials for their own events. The cost will be drawn from the property tax capital reserve.
Cataraqui Trailhead development gets green light
Phase One of a new trailhead on the Cataraqui Trail will move forward with $40,000 in approved capital funding. This phase will focus on parking lot preparation and the installation of basic signage. Town staff, in collaboration with Public Works, will complete the work in-house where possible. Future phases could include washrooms, water access, interpretive features and expanded parking, pending external grants or future budget approvals.
Town, DSFBA update Russell Street Parkette agreement
Council approved an addendum to its agreement with the Downtown Smiths Falls Business Association to clarify responsibilities for the Russell Street Parkette. Under the revised terms, the Town will assume ownership and maintenance of the parkette’s gazebo, benches and planters. The DSFBA will continue to manage and maintain artistic features, such as the decorative piano. Seasonal planting will be incorporated into municipal operations starting in 2026.
Website upgrade to Govstack approved
Council approved a $30,708 pre-budget expenditure to migrate the town’s website to a new platform called Govstack. Developed by existing web partner GHD, the new system will replace the soon-to-be-retired iCreate platform by 2026. Govstack is expected to improve site speed, user access, and internal customization options. Staff noted the switch will also reduce long-term costs compared to starting from scratch with a new provider, which could cost around $150,000.
Asset Management Plan update coming June 23
An update on the 2025 Asset Management Plan (AMP) was received for information. The AMP is being prepared by Public Sector Digest and is expected to meet provincial requirements under Ontario Regulation 588/17. The document will include lifecycle strategies, levels of service and financial planning for all municipal infrastructure and will be presented to council on June 23. Staff are also working on complementary studies for roads, bridges, IT, and building conditions.
Flag protocol updated to allow mayoral discretion
Council has updated its flag protocol bylaw to allow the mayor, in consultation with the CAO, to lower flags to half-mast for individuals who have made significant contributions to the community. The previous policy lacked discretionary provisions, which this amendment now addresses. A friendly amendment will also include recognition for current and former committee members, as well as community award recipients like Citizen of the Year.
