Boards, Committees and Commissions

The Township of Ramara Appeal Tribunal is an independent, quasi-judicial body established by Council to hear and decide appeals related to certain Township by-laws. The Tribunal provides an impartial forum for reviewing decisions made under applicable municipal regulations and exercises the Township's quasi-judicial functions independently from its legislative and administrative functions.

The Appeal Tribunal currently hears appeals filed under the Township's:

• Short-Term Rental Accommodation By-law;
• Canine Control By-law;
• Business Licensing By-law; and
• Other by-laws adopted by Council that include appeal provisions.

The Tribunal has authority to:

• Grant, refuse, suspend, or revoke licences;
• Impose or vary licence conditions; and
• Affirm, vary, or rescind orders or notices issued under applicable by-laws.

Role of Members

Tribunal members are responsible for:

• Reviewing appeal materials and evidence;
• Attending and participating in hearings;
• Considering submissions from appellants and Township representatives;
• Applying relevant by-laws, policies, and legislation; and
• Making fair, impartial, and independent decisions based on the evidence presented.

Hearings are conducted in a manner similar to a court or administrative tribunal proceeding. Tribunal members must be able to consider information objectively and make decisions in the public interest.

Skills and Qualifications

Applicants with experience, knowledge, or interest in the following areas are encouraged to apply:

• Law, adjudication, or regulatory decision-making;
• Administrative tribunals or quasi-judicial proceedings;
• Interpretation and application of by-laws, policies, and legislation;
• Conflict resolution and dispute management;
• Municipal governance or public administration;
• Analytical thinking and evidence-based decision-making; and
• Public accountability and procedural fairness.

Member Expectations

Members should be able to:

• Act impartially and independently;
• Demonstrate sound judgment and decision-making skills;
• Evaluate evidence objectively;
• Maintain confidentiality where required;
• Communicate effectively during hearings and deliberations; and
• Comply with the requirements of the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act.

Meeting Schedule

Appeal Tribunal hearings are held on an as-needed basis when appeals are received by the Township. There is no regular meeting schedule. The Tribunal is comprised of up to five members appointed by Council.

Additional Information

Interested applicants are encouraged to review the following resources for more information regarding the Appeal Tribunal:

• Appeal Tribunal Webpage
• Appeal Tribunal By-law 2020.66
• By-law 2026.41 (Amendment to Appeal Tribunal By-law)

The Township of Ramara appoints the same citizen members to serve on both the Committee of Adjustment and the Property Standards Committee. While the membership is shared, each committee has distinct responsibilities under separate legislation.

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment is established under the Planning Act and is responsible for hearing and making decisions on applications such as:

• Minor Variances;
• Consents (land severances);
• Permissions; and
• Other matters delegated under the Planning Act.

Committee members review applications, hear submissions from applicants, staff, agencies, and members of the public, and make decisions based on applicable planning policies, legislation, and evidence presented at public hearings.

Property Standards Committee

The Property Standards Committee is established under the Building Code Act and hears appeals of Property Standards Orders issued by the Township.

The Committee's role is to determine whether an Order should be:

• Confirmed;
• Modified; or
• Rescinded.

Committee members review evidence and submissions from property owners and Township representatives before making a decision in accordance with applicable legislation and Township by-laws.

Skills and Qualifications

The following skills, knowledge, and experience are considered assets.

Experience and Knowledge

• Land use planning and development;
• Construction, architecture, engineering, or surveying;
• Planning law, municipal law, or real estate law; and
• Agriculture, rural land use, or environmental planning.

Skills and Competencies

• Ability to interpret legislation, planning policies, site plans, surveys, and technical reports;
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and decision-making skills;
• Ability to evaluate evidence and apply planning principles;
• Fair, impartial, and objective judgment;
• Effective communication skills and participation in public hearings; and
• Understanding of conflicts of interest and public accountability.

Member Expectations

Members are expected to:

• Attend and actively participate in meetings and hearings;
• Review reports and supporting materials in advance of meetings;
• Act fairly, impartially, and independently;
• Make decisions based on evidence and applicable legislation;
• Comply with the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act; and
• Participate in any required training.

Meeting Schedule

The Committee of Adjustment and Property Standards Committee share the same Council-appointed membership.

Meetings are held on an as-needed basis when applications or appeals are received by the Township. The frequency of meetings may vary depending on the number of planning applications and property standards appeals received.

Additional Information

Interested applicants are encouraged to review the following resources for more information regarding the Committees:

• Committee of Adjustment webpage
  
• Committee of Adjustment By-law 2018.09
• Property Standards webpage
• Property Standards Bylaw 2019.16

The Township of Ramara is seeking one community representative for appointment to the Couchiching OPP Detachment Board for the 2026-2030 Term of Council.

The Couchiching OPP Detachment Board is an independent civilian oversight body established under Ontario's Community Safety and Policing Act, 2019. The Board serves the City of Orillia and the Townships of Oro-Medonte, Ramara, and Severn and works to ensure adequate and effective policing that reflects the needs of the communities it serves.

The Board is comprised of:

• One Council representative from each participating municipality;
• One community representative from each participating municipality; and
• Two Provincial appointees.

The successful applicant will serve as Ramara's community representative on the Board and will work alongside representatives from the other participating municipalities.

Role of Members

Board members are responsible for:

• Participating in the selection of the Detachment Commander;
• Determining objectives and priorities for the detachment following consultation with the Detachment Commander;
• Advising the Detachment Commander regarding policing services provided by the detachment;
• Monitoring the performance of the Detachment Commander;
• Reviewing reports regarding policing provided within the detachment area; and
• Contributing to annual reporting and budget discussions.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be an eligible elector in the Township of Ramara;
• Provide a satisfactory Criminal Record Check prior to appointment;
• Successfully complete required training; and
• Not be a judge or justice of the peace; a member of a police service, special constable, or a First Nation Officer; someone practicing criminal law (either defense or prosecution); a director, officer, or employee of any policing provider; an employee of the Township of Ramara.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

Applicants should be active members of the community with an interest in community safety and well-being and an awareness of local community safety issues and programs.

In considering community appointments, preference is given to persons demonstrating knowledge or experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Finance;
• Social Services;
• Education;
• Governance;
• Legal Services;
• Health Care; and
• Mental Health.

Meeting Schedule

The Board meets a minimum of four times per year, with additional meetings scheduled as required. Appointments are for a term concurrent with the Term of Council.

Additional Information

Interested applicants are encouraged to review:

• The Couchiching OPP Detachment Board webpage;
• The Board's Terms of Reference; and
• The Community Safety and Policing Act, 2019.

The Township of Ramara is seeking two citizen representatives for appointment to the Emergency Management Program Committee (EMPC) for the 2026-2030 Term of Council. The successful applicants will serve alongside municipal staff, emergency management personnel, and Council representatives in supporting the Township's emergency preparedness efforts. The Committee is responsible for developing, updating, and implementing the Township's Emergency Management Program and Emergency Response Plan in accordance with provincial emergency management requirements.

The Committee plays an important role in ensuring the Township is prepared to respond to emergencies that may affect residents, businesses, municipal infrastructure, and community services. This includes planning for events such as severe weather, flooding, extended power outages, public health emergencies, and other situations requiring a coordinated municipal response.

Role of Members

Committee members are responsible for:

• Supporting the development, maintenance, and review of the Township's Emergency Management Program;
• Reviewing and providing input on the Township's Emergency Response Plan;
• Participating in emergency preparedness discussions, training, and planning initiatives;
• Assisting with the identification of emergency risks and hazards that may affect the community;
• Supporting emergency preparedness education and awareness initiatives; and
• Contributing to annual emergency management exercises and program reviews.

Community Perspective

The citizen representative provides an important community perspective to the Committee and contributes to discussions regarding emergency preparedness, public awareness, and community resilience. The role helps ensure that community needs and local perspectives are considered in the Township's emergency planning efforts.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

Applicants should ideally have emergency planning experience.

Member Expectations

Members should be able to:

• Act in the public interest;
• Work collaboratively with municipal staff, emergency service personnel, and other committee members;
• Maintain confidentiality where required;
• Consider community-wide impacts when providing advice and recommendations;
• Attend meetings regularly and actively participate in discussions and exercises; and
• Support the Township's commitment to emergency preparedness and community resilience.

Meeting Schedule

The Emergency Management Program Committee meets on the third Wednesday of every second month at 8 a.m. at the Atherley Fire Hall. Committee members also participate in an annual tabletop emergency exercise and may be required to attend additional meetings or training sessions as needed.

Additional Information

Interested applicants are encouraged to review the following resources for more information about the Committee and its responsibilities:

• Emergency Management webpage
• Township Emergency Response Plan
• Emergency Management Program Committee Adoption By-law 2007.112

The Township of Ramara is seeking one citizen representative for appointment to the Joint Accessibility Advisory Committee (JAAC) for the 2026-2030 Term of Council.

The Joint Accessibility Advisory Committee is a shared committee between the Township of Ramara and the Township of Severn, established in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA) and the Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2001. The Committee provides advice to both municipal councils on matters relating to accessibility and the identification, removal, and prevention of barriers for persons with disabilities.

The Committee consists of two Council representatives and two citizen members. In accordance with provincial legislation, the majority of committee members must be persons with disabilities. Each municipality appoints one Council representative and one citizen representative.

Role of Members

Committee members are responsible for:

• Providing input on the development and implementation of municipal accessibility plans;
• Advising Council on accessibility-related matters affecting municipal facilities, services, programs, and policies;
• Identifying barriers experienced by persons with disabilities and recommending solutions;
• Reviewing site plans, drawings, and municipal projects as required under applicable legislation;
• Providing advice regarding accessibility improvements to municipal buildings and public spaces; and
• Supporting efforts to create inclusive and accessible communities for residents and visitors.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

The non-elected representative for Ramara is preferred to be a person with disabilities to satisfy the Acts' requirement of the majority of committee members being persons with disabilities. 

The non-elected representative for Ramara must be a resident of the Township of Ramara.

Member Expectations

Members should be able to:

• Consider accessibility issues from a community-wide perspective;
• Work collaboratively with committee members, staff, and Council representatives from both municipalities;
• Attend meetings regularly and actively participate in discussions;
• Review materials in advance of meetings;
• Provide constructive advice and recommendations; and
• Support the development of accessible and inclusive communities.

Meeting Schedule

The Committee meets a minimum of two times per year, with additional meetings scheduled as required to support accessibility planning, reviews, and projects. Meetings are generally held electronically, with occasional site visits as required.

Appointments are for a term concurrent with the Term of Council and members are eligible for re-appointment.

Additional Information

Interested applicants are encouraged to review the following resources:

• Joint Accessibility Advisory Committee Terms of Reference;
• Township of Ramara Accessibility webpage;
• Township of Ramara Accessibility Policy; and
• Multi-Year Accessibility Plan.

The Township of Ramara is seeking six citizen representatives for appointment to the Township of Ramara Public Library Board for the 2026-2030 Term of Council.

The Township of Ramara Public Library Board is responsible for the governance of the Township's public library system and works to ensure library services remain accessible, responsive, and relevant to the needs of the community. The Board provides strategic direction, establishes policies, oversees finances, and supports the long-term sustainability of library services, programs, and facilities.

Operating under Ontario's Public Libraries Act, the Board helps shape the future of library services while ensuring accountability, good governance, and responsible stewardship of public resources.

Role of Members

Board members are responsible for:

• Providing governance and strategic direction for the Library;
• Establishing and reviewing Library policies;
• Participating in strategic planning and organizational oversight;
• Exercising financial stewardship and budget oversight;
• Supporting the development of library services, facilities, and programs;
• Monitoring organizational performance and community needs; and
• Advocating for literacy, lifelong learning, and community engagement.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

The Board welcomes applications from residents with a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. No specific professional qualifications are required.

The following knowledge, skills, and experience would be considered assets:

• Governance experience;
• Planning and facility management;
• Finance experience/skills;
• Risk management;
• Adaptability;
• Knowledge/experience with public libraries;
• Strategic planning and oversight;
• Fundraising experience;
• Representing different perspectives in the community;
• Legislative knowledge; and
• Human resources.

Member Expectations

Board members are expected to:

• Attend and actively participate in Board meetings;
• Review agendas and supporting materials in advance of meetings;
• Work collaboratively with fellow Board members and Library staff;
• Support good governance practices;
• Act in the best interests of the Library and the community; and
• Comply with Board by-laws, policies, and applicable legislation.

Meeting Schedule

The Library Board meets regularly throughout the year, with additional meetings scheduled as required to address governance, budget, strategic planning, and special projects.

Appointments are for a term concurrent with the 2026-2030 Term of Council.

Additional Information

Interested applicants are encouraged to review:

• The Ramara Public Library website;
• Information regarding the Township of Ramara Public Library Board; and
• The Library Board's governing by-laws.

The Atherley Community Centre Board operates and maintains Atherley Community Centre Park (Lovely Day Park).

Learn more about the Atherley Community Centre Board on the Township's CivicWeb Portal.

The Appeal Tribunal has been established to hear appeals filed against the following bylaws:

• Bylaw 2020.11 Short-Term Rental Accommodation Bylaw
• Bylaw 2025.56 Canine Control Bylaw
• Bylaw 2022.3 Business Licensing Bylaw
• Future bylaws adopted by Ramara Council with appeal provisions

Hearings will take place on an as-required basis.

Learn more about the Appeal Tribunal on the Township's CivicWeb Portal.

The Awards Committee receives nominations for the Wall of Fame and Spirit of Ramara Award on an annual basis (with the exception of a Municipal Election year).

The Committee will review and recommend a maximum of three nominees each for the Wall of Fame and Spirit of Ramara Award to Council. Council will select one winner from the Wall of Fame and three winners for the Spirit of Ramara Award.

Learn more about the Spirit of Ramara and Wall of Fame awards on the Ramara Awards webpage.

Learn more about the Awards Committee on the Township's CivicWeb Portal.

Brechin and Beyond aims to create pride in the Township of Ramara encouraging businesses and residents to invest in the future, beginning with the Village of Brechin.

Learn more about the Brechin and Beyond Committee on the Township's CivicWeb Portal.

The Ramara Climate Action Committee acts as an Advisory Committee of Council on matters relating to climate change and environmental issues within the Township of Ramara.

Learn more about the Climate Action Committee on the Township's CivicWeb Portal.

The Committee of Adjustment makes decisions on certain planning applications regarding Consent and Minor Variances under the Planning Act and is appointed by Council. Committee of Adjustment members also hear appeals from property owners and occupants who are not satisfied with the terms of an order issued under the Property Standards Bylaw.

Learn more about the Committee of Adjustment on the Township's CivicWeb Portal.

Learn more about the Property Standards Committee on the Township's CivicWeb Portal.

The Committee of Revision, formerly the Court of Revision, is a quasi-judicial committee comprised of three members of Council to hear appeals regarding charges added to the tax rolls of affected property owners.

Learn more about the Committee of Revision on the Township's CivicWeb Portal.

The Emergency Management Program Committee develops, updates and implements the Township's Emergency Plan in accordance with Emergency Management Ontario.

Learn more about the Emergency Management Program Committee on the Township's CivicWeb Portal.

Learn more about emergency management in Ramara on the Emergency Management webpage.

The Lagoon City Parks and Waterways Commission (LCPWC) regulates and manages the waterways, footbridges, foot paths, and private parks in Lagoon City.

Learn more about the LCPWC on the Lagoon City Parks and Waterways Commission webpage and on the Township's CivicWeb Portal.

The Longford Community Centre Board of Management oversees the daily operations of the Longford Community Centre.

Learn more about the Longford Community Centre Board of Management on the CivicWeb Portal.

The Ramara Economic Development Committee conducts research and provides advice to Council on local issues including promotion and encouragement of industrial, commercial and residential development.

Learn more about the Ramara Economic Development Committee on the Township's CivicWeb Portal.

The Ramara Public Library Board oversees the Ramara Public Library

Learn more about the Ramara Public Library.

The Rooted in Ramara Committee educates the community on gardening and food sustainability while creating food security through community initiatives for positive change and food independence. 

Learn more about the Rooted in Ramara Committee on the Township's CivicWeb Portal.

The Ramara Trails Committee oversees the management and development of the Ramara Trails.

Learn more about the Trails Committee on the Township's CivicWeb Portal.

The Udney Community Centre Board of Management oversees the daily operations of the Udney Community Centre.

Learn more about the Udney Community Centre Board of Management on the Township's CivicWeb Portal.

The Youth Action Committee aims to develop and organize activities for Ramara's youth and be a voice for youth issues in the township.

Learn more about the Youth Action Committee on the Township's CivicWeb Portal.