At its November 2 meeting, Hanover council received a presentation from Dave Hocking, chair of the Saugeen Municipal Airport Commission, outlining the airport’s proposed 2027 budget and highlighting a successful year that included new business investment, community events, increased aviation activity and future development opportunities. The proposed budget represents a 2.2 per cent increase over 2026.
Council approved the proposed committee structure for the 2026-2030 term of council, which largely maintains the current advisory committee framework. Recruitment for citizen appointments to committees and boards will begin immediately, with appointments expected in December.
Council also reviewed proposed 2027 user fees and charges and approved the updated fee schedule. A 5.7 per cent increase in water and wastewater rates, consistent with the Town’s asset management and long-term financial planning objectives was apart of the fee schedule. The average residential household could expect to see an increase of approximately $70 annually for water and wastewater services.
Through the Planning Advisory Committee report, council received an update on the Town’s development charges study and reviewed planning fee adjustments intended to better align with the cost of processing applications. Committee members also recognized the service of longtime Planning Advisory Committee chair Tim Norwood, who is retiring from the committee after more than 25 years of service.
Council received information on upcoming changes to the Blue Box program and confirmed residents can continue to dispose of soft film plastics through the Town’s landfill depot recycling program.
During good news and celebrations, council members recognized the success of the Hanover Trick-or-Treat Trail, the Hanover Legion Ladies Auxiliary’s human trafficking awareness presentation, the Lions Club’s Disco Inferno fundraiser and several upcoming community events.
The meeting also marked the final meeting for Councillor Susan Sakal and Mayor Sue Paterson. Council and staff thanked both for their service to the community, recognizing Councillor Sakal’s four years on council and Mayor Paterson’s 23 years of municipal service, including the last 12 years as mayor.
