SMITHS FALLS — Smiths Falls council has agreed to open all Community Improvement Plan funding streams for 2026, following a staff report outlining progress on projects approved in the previous year.
Staff reported during the Jan. 26 meeting that seven Community Improvement Plan projects were approved in 2025, addressing façade, accessibility and interior improvements. Of those, four projects are complete, two are nearing completion, and one has not yet started.
The approved projects represent just under $359,000 in total improvement costs, with the town’s contribution totalling just over $147,000, or 41 per cent of overall project costs. Staff said the figures may change as the remaining projects reach completion and final costs replace earlier estimates.
The town’s share of project costs was similar in recent years, accounting for 44 per cent of total costs in 2024 and 24 per cent in 2023. Staff noted the lower percentage in 2023 reflected one large project that received a disproportionately higher level of funding compared with other CIP projects.
No new affordable housing units were created through the Community Improvement Plan in 2025. However, staff said amendments approved earlier this month are expected to provide stronger financial incentives through tax rebates for affordable units beginning in 2026.
Pre consultations for the 2026 program are already underway. Staff said discussions are taking place with heritage designated commercial and residential property owners, applicants seeking accessibility upgrades, and a developer proposing new affordable and accessible housing units.
Council voted to receive the report for information and approved the opening of all Community Improvement Plan programs for the year.
CIP PROJECTS APPROVED IN 2026
18 William St. E.
A project at 18 William St. E., occupied by Big Brothers Big Sisters, remains in progress. The estimated cost of work is $37,228, with approved CIP funding of $13,600.
2–6 Beckwith St. S.
Completed in 2025, this project included removal of existing awning signage, wall repair and repainting, and installation of new exterior lighting. New tenant signage was not part of the project. The estimated cost was $15,119, with final costs of $12,989. Approved funding was $7,560, with $6,495 provided.
30–40 Beckwith St. N.
This Community Improvement Plan project addressed a deteriorating façade at the property. The work involved replacement and stabilization of the crumbling exterior façade. The estimated cost of the project was $28,549, with final costs of $22,600. Approved CIP funding totalled $10,000.
41 Market St. N.
Completed in 2025, this Community Improvement Plan project focused on improving accessibility to the gymnasium side of Trinity United Church, which also functions as a community hub. Work included construction of an exterior ramp, installation of a new entrance door with automatic openers, and an interior ramp. Staff reported that all three sections of the church are now fully accessible. The estimated cost of the project was $61,850, with approved CIP funding of $26,004.
1–3 William St.
Completed in 2025, this project involved installation of new signage on the side façade of the building. The estimated cost was $3,230, with approved funding of $1,615.
53 Victoria St.
A project at 53 Victoria St. is nearing completion and includes installation of automatic door openers and an emergency call button for public washrooms. Most of the work is complete, with minor adjustments remaining. The estimated cost is $11,487, with approved CIP funding of $5,743.
11 William St. W.
Work has not yet started on this project. The original proposal included accessibility improvements, façade work, and upgrades to heating, plumbing and electrical systems. Staff reported delays while the owner secured new contractors, resulting in a revised scope focused on refurbishing the existing porch. The estimated cost is $209,520, with approved CIP funding of $83,908.Property owners interested in CIP funding can find program details, eligibility requirements and application forms on the town’s website. Applications are reviewed by staff with pre-consultation encouraged before formal submissions.
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