The Sept. 15 Smiths Falls council meeting ranged from big events and heritage plans to Parkinson’s awareness and Truth and Reconciliation.
SMITHS FALLS — Smiths Falls council heard a wide-range of verbal reports on Sept. 15, touching on everything from packed downtown summer events and new climate action targets to updates at the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario. Councillors also discussed accessibility and heritage planning, local support for Parkinson’s awareness, and approved three proclamations marking key national days this fall.
Road Apples draw 800 fans at Smiths Falls downtown concert
Smiths Falls’ downtown was buzzing on Sept. 13 during the latest slate of events hosted by the Downtown Business Association. Promotions chair and BIA vice-chair Sherrie Axford and her team were credited with drawing record crowds, including more than 800 people for the headline performance by The Road Apples. Mayor Shawn Pankow said the turnout confirms the town’s growing reputation as a “music mecca,” noted Coun. Jennifer Miller during the Smiths Falls council meeting.
Brooke Henderson keeps town on the map
Coun. Peter McKenna said that the town continues to make headlines well beyond its borders, thanks in part to hometown golf star Brooke Henderson. Councillor Peter McKenna noted during his Sept. 15 report to Smiths Falls council report that Henderson’s name, and Smiths Falls itself, came up in a recent Sportsnet interview with broadcaster Jamie Campbell, highlighting the town’s growing recognition across the country. She also had the CPKC Women’s Open trophy with her as she spoke to inspiring kids to take up the sport.
Smiths Falls council prepares climate action targets in new emission reduction report
McKenna updated Smiths Falls council on the work of the climate task force. A first draft of the Community and Corporate Emission Reduction Feasibility Report has been prepared, outlining actions that could lower greenhouse gas emissions. Reduction targets will be drafted this fall and presented to Smiths Falls council for adoption.
McKenna also reported on updates from Lanark County:
- Ontario Works caseloads have risen sharply since 2021, from 616 households countywide to 882 as of July, with numbers expected to top 1,000 by 2027. Smiths Falls accounts for 38 per cent of the total.
- County council declined to establish a new tax class for affordable rental housing, citing more effective tools available at the local level.
Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario gains charitable status
Coun. Steve Robinson noted that the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario has secured charitable status, allowing it to issue tax receipts for donations. Attendance is strong, with 139 paid visitors recorded on a recent Saturday for a non-themed day.
Although the museum’s recent federal funding application was unsuccessful, the board is pursuing other grants to support roof work, accessibility upgrades, parking improvements and a virtual tour project. Upcoming events include a Halloween-themed ride, a potential Christmas program, and even a whiskey-tasting night.
Accessibility plan up for public consultation
The Accessibility Advisory Committee held a workshop to review a new three-year accessibility plan, with a public consultation expected later this fall, Coun. Chris McGuire shared.
Meanwhile, the Heritage Committee has released a draft Heritage Conservation District Plan. A public meeting is scheduled for Sept. 18 from 5 to 7 p.m. at town hall. A Heritage Symposium will follow on Oct. 18 at the Masonic Hall.
Mayor promotes Parkinson’s awareness
Mayor Shawn Pankow reported on attending a Parkinson’s fundraiser in Perth on Sept. 14. He praised the work of local groups like Boxing for Parkinson’s, which provide exercise programs and support networks for people living with the disease. He encouraged residents who may be struggling with symptoms to seek out local supports.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Sept. 30
The Town of Smiths Falls will host a community ceremony on Tuesday, Sept. 30, at 5 p.m. in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day.
Residents are invited to gather at Centennial Park for a procession to the Healing Circle on Duck Island, where the ceremony will take place. The event will include a land acknowledgement, remarks from Mayor Shawn Pankow, and a personal address from Tim Bisaillon, a member of the Indigenous community and descendant of residential school survivors.
As part of the commemoration, the Bandstand at Town Square will be illuminated in orange from Sept. 29 to Oct. 6, and the Every Child Matters flag will be raised at Lower Reach Park.
Mayor Pankow said the day is an important opportunity to honour survivors and reflect on the lasting impacts of residential schools, while committing to reconciliation as “a continuous journey rooted in understanding, respect, and meaningful action.”
Council passed two other proclamations:
- World Alzheimer’s Day will be marked Sept. 21 to raise awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
Seniors for Climate Action Day is set for Oct. 15, part of a nationwide call for urgent action on the climate crisis.
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