Hanover Council received two delegations and approved several reports and agreements during its April 20 meeting.
President and Chief Executive Officer Chris White of ERTH Power, presented an overview of the corporation’s services, structure and future vision. ERTH Power currently serves 15 municipalities across four counties, spanning from Lake Erie to Lake Huron. The presentation is part of ERTH Power’s engagement with Westario shareholders as part of an ongoing transaction process, with the company expressing optimism about the future involvement of Westario communities.
Council also heard from Hanover Public Library CEO and Chief Librarian Carolyn Caskanette, who presented the library’s recent space needs update. The Hanover Public Library Board has requested council direct town staff to prepare a follow-up report on the potential creation of a Library Investigation Committee to explore options for a new or renovated library space.
Several reports were reviewed and received for information through the consent agenda, including Hanover’s participation in the Rural Ontario Institute’s Rural Changemakers Program, the Hanover Fire Department’s community risk assessment and a community resiliency strategy, a project of the Clean Energy Frontier titled Communities Rooted in Resilience. Council also received committee minutes, Deputy Mayor Dickert’s Ontario Good Roads Association conference report, correspondence advocating for watershed-based drinking water source protection and details on the Grey Bruce Labour Council’s Day of Mourning ceremony.
Council supported recognizing May as Building Safety Month, acknowledging the importance of Ontario’s Building Code and the role building officials play in ensuring safe construction practices in our communities. Council expressed appreciation for Hanover’s building staff and the work they do.
Several fire department reports were approved, including updates to the bylaw governing the Hanover Fire Department. Council also received an update on the rescue pumper replacement project, noting up to $60,000 in additional costs related to change orders driven by industry cost pressures, operational needs and compliance requirements. The new truck is expected to be delivered in late 2026 following a four-year build. The project is currently financed through internal borrowing, with external financing to be confirmed upon delivery.
Council also approved an agreement between the Town of Hanover and the Owen Sound Police Service for fire dispatch services covering 2027 to 2035.
Before adjournment, council members shared several good news items, including the plans for the April 22 community Earth Day cleanup, a successful Hanover and District Hospital Foundation fashion show that raised more than $28,000 and Hanover, Bentinck and Brant Agricultural Society’s plans for the 2026 horse racing season, which begins June 6.
Council also highlighted the recent grand opening and volunteer appreciation events at Elephant Thoughts, located at 612 10th Street, recognizing a valuable new community partnership.
Residents are reminded that the next regular council meeting will take place on Monday, May 4, 2026, at 4 p.m. Members of the public may attend in person or join virtually via the Town of Hanover Facebook page. Meeting agendas are posted online by 4 p.m. on the Friday prior to each meeting and are also available for viewing at the Hanover Public Library.
