Hanover council recognized local student achievements and approved several financial, infrastructure and policy initiatives at its most recent meeting.
Council welcomed the winners of the Hanover’s Innovative People Program (HIPP) Apprentice Municipal Youth Challenge, Allie Maarse and Prestyn Kirkorian of John Diefenbaker Senior School, who presented their downtown revitalization proposal. The program encouraged youth to develop practical solutions to municipal challenges while building leadership and civic engagement skills. An honourable mention was awarded to Avery Moore and Hannah Bishop for their project addressing senior isolation, while Ava Griffin and Shelby Timbers received a Concept Spotlight Award for their Lantern Light Festival idea.
Council approved the 2026 final tax levy, which establishes a municipal levy requirement of $10.6 million, representing an 8.2 per cent increase over the previous year. For the average residential property, this equates to an annual increase of approximately $235.
A new backflow prevention program and corresponding bylaw were also approved. The program introduces requirements for the installation, inspection and testing of backflow prevention devices to protect the municipal drinking water system from potential contamination.
Council directed staff to proceed with procurement for a new water meter system using automated meter infrastructure (AMI) technology. The initiative aims to address aging meters, improve accuracy and modernize billing systems as existing equipment approaches the end of its lifecycle.
Council also endorsed the Business Retention and Expansion (BR+E) Action Plan Roadmap, a multi-year plan outlining priorities to support local economic development. The roadmap will be implemented in phases and incorporated into departmental work planning and future budget considerations. The roadmap can be found at hanover.ca/businessretentionandexpansion.
In other business, council approved the delegation of authority to the Assessment Review Board for certain tax relief applications related to financial hardship and appointed Jess Hastie to the Board of Management for the Downtown Improvement Area for the remainder of the council term.
Council also directed staff to begin transitioning financial stewardship responsibilities for the Saugeen Municipal Airport back to the airport commission, effective January 1, 2027, aligning financial accountability with operational authority.
Several reports and minutes were received through the consent agenda, including updates on upcoming community events, along with committee and regional updates.
The popular Music in the Square series returns for its sixth season, bringing live local entertainment to Heritage Square throughout the summer. Performances will take place on the second and fourth Saturdays of June, July and August, running from June 13 to August 22 between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. The free program continues to support downtown vibrancy by complementing the Eat Well Farmers’ Market and encouraging residents and visitors to spend time in the core. This year’s lineup features a diverse mix of talent, including award-winning pop/rock duo He Said She Said, folk singer-songwriter May Ip, The Ruthven Sisters’ harmony-driven folk sound, seasoned performer Dave Menard, the energetic pairing of Emily Power and Rick Fairburn and Canadian country artists Lisa McEwen and Steve Wilkinson. The June 27 event will also feature a New Resident Welcome celebration alongside Canadian Multiculturalism Day activities. A full performance schedule is available at hanover.ca/events.
Hanover will celebrate Canada Day on Wednesday, July 1 with a full day of family-friendly festivities at Hanover Town Park. The event will feature a mix of live entertainment, children’s activities and opportunities for residents to connect with local organizations. Attendees can explore emergency service vehicles, enjoy a Rotary Club barbecue and participate in family programming hosted by the Hanover Public Library, as well as cookie decorating activities at The Deck Youth Centre. The celebration is designed to bring the community together for a fun and engaging day recognizing Canada Day in the heart of Hanover.
Council approved multiple committee minutes and passed bylaws related to the final tax levy, delegated authority and backflow prevention requirements.
Council also proclaimed June 15, 2026, as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and approved the flying of a flag at the Civic Centre from June 12 to 19.
During the good news portion of the meeting, council members highlighted the success of the recent Home and Lifestyle Show, upcoming Hanover Public Library Murder Mystery fundraising dinner being held on June 19 at the Hanover Legion, with advanced tickets available at the library. Residents are encouraged to participate in the 2027 budget questionnaire by visiting hanover.ca/budget or accessing hardcopies from the municipal office, P & H Centre or library.
Residents are reminded that the next regular council meeting will take place on Monday, June 15, 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.
