Port Hope Council’s July 15 meeting featured a wide range of updates, from youth involvement to infrastructure planning and environmental remediation.
Youth Councillors opened the meeting with a report on their recent involvement in community events, including Canada Day and the Walk-In Clinic fundraiser. They also highlighted the importance of having youth voices on advisory committees.
Council received updates from Northumberland County staff on the 2025 Annual County Report and from the Port Hope Public Library Board, both accepted for information.
A delegation from the Ganaraska Oak Ridges Guardians voiced their opposition to the Oak Hill Cell Tower Proposal and asked Council to issue a letter of non-concurrence. A presentation from 247 Labs showcased a prototype of the new myPHAI portal, designed to help residents access property-specific remediation data.
Council was introduced to the consultant team behind the Ward Boundary and Council Composition Review. The presentation outlined community engagement plans and timelines. Staff also kicked off the 2026 budget process and delivered findings from a Housing Action Strategy review, with council directing staff to begin updating zoning rules to encourage more affordable housing options.
A key decision involved approving a three-year lease agreement with WSP (PHAI Contractor) to use land under the Viaducts as a staging area for PHAI work. Council also approved a $412,000 increase to the Cavan Street and Highland Drive project, fully funded by Canadian Nuclear Laboratories. Additional conditional funding from CNL will support future construction administration and inspection costs.
A deferred motion on requiring affirmative budget votes from both wards was not brought forward.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
