SMITHS FALLS — Smiths Falls council voiced support for a revised Community Improvement Plan following a detailed discussion on proposed amendments aimed at improving program administration, increasing accessibility funding and strengthening support for heritage and affordable housing projects.
The amendments were presented by Manager of Development Services Karl Grenke at the Jan. 5 committee of the whole meeting, who said the changes reflect months of consultation with businesses, property owners, committees and provincial officials. Grenke told council the intent is to modernize how the plan functions while ensuring public funds are used efficiently and fairly.
“These amendments are the culmination of comments and feedback from a diverse group of businesses, property owners, associations and committees, along with input from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing,” Grenke said.
Among the key changes are increased funding thresholds for interior and exterior accessibility projects, the introduction of a new residential heritage program, removal of a development charges rebate that is now covered under provincial legislation, and the addition of a formal appeals process. Council also reviewed refinements to signage funding eligibility, prioritization of repeat applicants and timelines for approved projects to move forward.
One area of discussion focused on applications submitted by tenants when property owners are in tax arrears. While staff explained that tenants are often given time to resolve arrears issues with landlords, councillors emphasized the need for better communication so tenants know the reason for a denial.
“I think there should be a clear and respectful way for tenants to understand that a funding decision isn’t about something they did wrong, but about circumstances outside their control,” said Coun. Dawn Quinn.
Council also discussed accountability measures to prevent approved funds from sitting unused while other eligible projects go unfunded. Proposed changes include clearer language requiring applicants to sign funding agreements within a set timeframe, with the possibility of reallocating funds if projects do not proceed.
Additional refinements supported by council include prioritization language to reduce repeated funding of the same properties, flexibility in heritage eligibility to allow projects that protect designated features, and adjustments to committee representation to allow organizations to appoint their own delegates.
Council reached consensus on several minor amendments during the discussion and indicated support for advancing the revised Community Improvement Plan for adoption later in the meeting.
Grenke said the updated plan would guide the next intake of applications once the town’s budget is approved, with staff continuing to report annually on program outcomes and activity.
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