Rural

Municipal leaders and conservation experts are warning the restructuring of conservation authorities (CAs) outlined in provincial Bill 68 could jeopardize decades of successful watershed management, reduce local governance and impose significant financial burdens on municipalities.

Maitland Conservation (MC) board members approved their 2026 work plan and budget despite ongoing uncertainty stemming from the province’s plan to amalgamate conservation authorities (CAs).

Thirty-three projects totalling $9.6 million were approved for tender in the 2026 Perth County capital budget. The next part of the budget, the draft operating budget, is slated to be presented at the Jan. 22 Perth County Council meeting. 

Council here approved up to $45,000 from the fire reserve to go toward a used replacement vehicle and associated setup costs for the Howick Fire Department.

After learning that the Wingham and District Hospital board has rejected a request for temporary laydown space in its parking lot, needed for the municipality’s standpipe project, North Huron council has directed staff to pursue a new approach.

Relevance to Perth and Huron Counties lies in the geographic circumstance.

Last month, council here discussed entering into a maintenance agreement with Maitland Valley Conservation Authority for grass cutting and trimming on the north side of the Gorrie Conservation Area property.

While area municipalities remain in charge of garbage collection, a new province-wide  approach to recycling should mean fewer trash bags to pick up at the curbside.