Hanover Council approved several strategic, financial and planning initiatives at its most recent meeting, supporting ongoing growth and community development. Council also took time to celebrate outstanding community leadership.
As part of this recognition, Bill Smolenaars was named Hanover’s 2026 Ontario Senior of the Year in acknowledgment of his longstanding volunteerism and leadership. Nominated by councillors Carol Hudson and Susan Sakal, Bill is a key organizer of Light on Main Street, a weekly free lunch program running from September to June, and volunteers with Holy Family Church and the Knights of Columbus.
Council received a presentation from J.L. Richards staff outlining the final Downtown Plan, developed in partnership with the Hanover Downtown Improvement Area. The action-oriented plan provides a framework for downtown revitalization over the next five to 10 years, guided by a vision of a vibrant, inclusive and accessible community hub.
The plan was shaped through extensive consultation with local stakeholders, including a steering committee, the Economic, Tourism and Cultural Development Advisory Committee, the Cultural Roundtable, the Hanover Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Improvement Area. Broader input was gathered through one-on-one interviews, an online survey, a January “Idea Jam,” Community Connector engagement and a public open house. Structured around four pillars — economic vitality, design, promotion and organization — the plan outlines targeted actions focused on creating a welcoming downtown, supporting families and enhancing accessibility and visitor experience. Council approved the plan and directed the creation of a delivery team to guide implementation.
Several reports and items were received through the consent agenda, including correspondence related to the East End trail and updates from committees and regional partners.
Council approved up to $25,000 in additional funding for the Community Improvement Plan (CIP) to meet ongoing demand. The CIP is designed to stimulate private-sector investment, enhance the built environment and support business and attainable housing growth through a range of financial incentives. Eligible projects include façade upgrades, accessibility improvements, signage, landscaping and interior renovations for new and expanding businesses. The program also includes tax increment equivalent grants to support larger-scale developments, including multi-residential housing. With the program’s 2026 budget already fully committed at mid-year, the additional funding will help advance more projects and sustain momentum in downtown revitalization and business growth.
Council also received an update and financial analysis regarding proposed sidewalk options for the East End trail network. Following discussion, council deferred a decision and directed staff to prepare further cost estimates that would include the additional sidewalk connections and a portion of the natural trail segment from 22nd Avenue A to 24th Avenue.
Council approved a bylaw to remove part-lot control for semi-detached dwellings on 9th Avenue as well as approved updates to the Delegation of Powers and Duties Policy and adopted a bylaw to formally delegate certain responsibilities to staff. This formalization helps ensure routine matters are handled efficiently and supports the smooth operation of council business.
During the good news portion of the meeting, council members highlighted upcoming Canada Day celebrations, the Curling Club breakfast, the successful Kids Can Fly event at the Saugeen Municipal Airport, a recent Special Olympics exhibition baseball game involving fire and police and the upcoming New Resident Welcome event on June 27 at Heritage Square.
Residents are reminded that the next regular council meeting will take place on Monday, July 13, 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.
