
Hanover council addressed a broad range of municipal, planning and infrastructure matters during its most recent meeting.
Council began with its monthly health and safety message, recognizing April as Be a Donor Month. The initiative, led by the Trillium Gift of Life Network, aims to raise awareness of organ and tissue donation across Ontario.
Two statutory public meetings were held during the session. Council approved a zoning bylaw amendment for a property on Grey Road 28, rezoning it from site-specific future development to general industrial. The existing building, formerly used as a home design and décor outlet, will be repurposed for industrial use, including a carpentry shop and showroom. No comments from the public were received during the meeting.
Council also approved amendments to the 2026 building department fees. Municipalities are required to set building permit fees that recover the cost of administering and enforcing the Ontario Building Code. No public comments were submitted.
Council heard a delegation from the Saugeen Municipal Airport Commission, which presented its airport development concept report. The plan outlines opportunities for aviation-related and compatible land uses to support airport operations and regional economic growth. Council passed a resolution supporting the development concept in principle.
Several reports and information items were received through the consent agenda, including updates on upcoming Earth Day events, the 2025 annual health and safety report and minutes from local boards and commissions.
Council approved updates to the Town’s infection control and COVID-19 immunization policy, as well as the 2026 operational plan for Hanover’s drinking water system. The operational plan is required under the province’s Municipal Drinking Water Licensing Program and demonstrates compliance with provincial water quality standards. Council members shared their appreciation for the Town of Hanover’s water and wastewater staff and their diligence with our crucial systems. Residents may view a hard copy of the Drinking Water Quality Management Standard at the Municipal Office.
A major capital project was also approved, with council awarding the reconstruction of 6th Street A, from 13th Avenue to 15th Avenue, to Kurtis Smith Excavating Inc. at a cost of $2.28 million, excluding non-recoverable HST. The project includes replacement of water, sanitary and storm infrastructure, road reconstruction, curbs, gutters and the installation of a new sidewalk on the north side of the street.
Council approved minutes from several advisory committees and passed the required bylaws arising from the public meetings.
Council also approved flying the Be a Donor flag at the Civic Centre and lighting the building green during National Organ and Tissue Donor Awareness Week, April 19 to 25, 2026.
Before adjourning, council members shared a number of good news items and celebrations, including the Artemis II space mission, Hanover Barons 2025-2026 season, upcoming community events and encouraged resident participation in the Regional Transit Survey.
The Town of Hanover is inviting residents and business owners to attend a Community Connects session on April 29, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. at the Civic Centre in the Saugeen Room. The session’s theme, Role Responsibilities, will provide an overview of municipal government responsibilities, as well as an opportunity to connect with Hanover’s Mayor, Councillors and staff.
Residents are reminded that the next regular council meeting will take place on Monday, April 20, 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.
