Posted: Wednesday March 11, 2026
Brockville City Council met on March 10, 2026. Below are highlights from the meeting.
Proclamation
Brockville City Council has officially proclaimed March 26, 2026 as National Epilepsy Awareness Day in the City of Brockville. The proclamation was requested by Epilepsy South Eastern Ontario and recognizes the importance of raising awareness about epilepsy and supporting those living with the condition. Proclamations are one way the City recognizes important causes and community initiatives.
Accessibility Upgrades Planned for Brockville Arts Centre
Councillor Severson shared an update from the Municipal Accessibility Advisory Committee about accessibility improvements planned for the Brockville Arts Centre (BAC). The project will be supported through a $51,250 Enhancing Access to Spaces for Everyone (EASE) Grant, along with $8,000 approved by Council in the 2026 Capital Budget.
The funding will be used to improve accessibility at the theatre. Planned upgrades include a hearing loop system for people with hearing loss, adaptable seating, automatic door operators, and touch-free taps. Construction is expected to begin in August 2026.
ALTO Rail Discussion
Councillor Deery brought forward a resolution about proposed high-speed rail plans in Eastern Ontario. The resolution raised concerns that the currently proposed southern route for the project could impact rural communities, farmland, wetlands, and other environmentally sensitive areas.
The resolution asks the Government of Canada to invest in improvements to passenger rail along the existing rail corridor near Highway 401, including dedicated tracks and updated equipment to improve reliability and on-time service. It also asks the federal government to study an alternate route for the proposed high-speed rail line along the 401 corridor, with potential station stops in communities such as Cornwall, Brockville, Kingston, Belleville, Cobourg/Port Hope, and Oshawa.
During discussion, Mayor Matt Wren suggested adding post-secondary institutions to the list of important destinations that rely on rail connectivity. Council supported the amendment and approved the resolution as amended.
Memorial Centre Roof Renovation Update
Councillor Severson shared an update from the Recreation Advisory Committee about the Memorial Centre roof renovation project. Construction began at the end of February. The facility will close to the public starting March 16, 2026 while the work continues.
City staff will continue to provide updates as the project progresses.
Building Department Report for 2023 and 2024
Council received the Building Department’s report on building permit fees collected in 2023 and 2024. During this period, permit revenues exceeded the cost of operating the Building Department.
Council approved transferring $149,543.13 in surplus permit revenue to the Building Permit Stabilization Reserve. This reserve helps ensure the Building Department can continue operating without relying on property taxes if construction activity slows in future years.
Health and Safety Water Stream Funding Agreement
Council approved entering into a funding agreement with the Province of Ontario to support construction of a new wastewater pumping station at Centeen Park. The City will receive funding up to a maximum of $24,591,875 or 73% of the total eligible costs. The project will help modernize Brockville’s wastewater infrastructure and support future growth.
Water and Wastewater Reports for 2024 and 2025
Council received the City’s annual reports for Brockville’s drinking water and wastewater systems. The reports show that both systems met or exceeded all provincial regulations and performance standards set by the Ministry.
Regular testing, monitoring, and maintenance ensure Brockville’s drinking water remains safe and reliable, while the wastewater system continues to operate effectively to protect public health and the St. Lawrence River.
These annual reports are part of the City’s commitment to transparency, regulatory compliance, and maintaining high-quality municipal infrastructure.
Meeting Information and What’s Coming Up
Council meeting agendas and minutes are available online through the Brockville Civic Web.
Upcoming meetings:
General Committee – March 17, 2026, at 4:30 p.m.
Governance Committee – March 18, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.
Council Meeting – March 24, 2026, at 5:30 p.m.