July 2025 Ramara Bulletin

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Ramara Bulletin – July 2025 Edition

Important Dates, Events and Opportunities

Upcoming Council and Committee Meetings

Wednesday, July 16: Ramara Trails Committee

Monday, July 21: Council (including Committee of the Whole)

Thursday, July 24: Lagoon City Parks and Waterways Commission
Thursday, July 31: Climate Action Committee

All Council meetings are streamed on the Township of Ramara's YouTube channel and available in person in the Council Chambers in the Administration Building at 2297 Highway 12. Learn more about Council meetings, including reading Council Highlights, how to communicate with Council and more at ramara.ca/CouncilMeetings.

Attention Ramara Businesses - Participate in the Employment Survey

The County of Simcoe’s Employment Survey is taking place this summer. Ramara businesses, large or small, are encouraged to complete the survey. Input will help the County and Township understand local employment trends, plan for infrastructure and support economic development across Ramara. County staff have completed visits to businesses in Ramara. If your business was missed or hasn’t responded yet, you can still participate by emailing employsimcoe@simcoe.ca to register for a unique link to the survey.

Ice Storm Grant Funding Announced for Businesses, Farms and Non-Profits

The Ontario government is launching two one-time financial assistance programs to support communities impacted by the March 28, 2025, ice storm. The Municipal Ice Storm Assistance program will help municipalities pay for emergency response and clean-up costs and the Business Ice Storm Assistance program will help small businesses, small farms and not-for-profit organizations pay for costs not covered by private insurance.

Eligibility, program guidelines and application details for the Business Ice Storm Assistance program is posted online on the Business Ice Storm Assistance program webpage.

Funding Available for On-Farm Energy Efficiency Projects

Ontario farmers can now apply for funding through the Agricultural Stewardship Initiative, which is a program from the federal and provincial governments to support energy efficiency improvements on farms. This initiative aims to help boost competitiveness in response to ongoing U.S. tariffs affecting the agri-food sector.

Eligible applicants can receive between $10,000 and $90,000 for projects such as replacing outdated equipment, installing geothermal heating, or upgrading to high-efficiency ventilation, lighting, refrigeration, and grain drying systems.

Delivered by the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association (OSCIA), the application intake runs from August 13 to September 3, 2025.

For details on eligibility and how to apply, visit the OSCIA website.

Employment Opportunities

We’re hiring! Available positions include:

General Manager of Corporate Services/Legal
Assistant Clerk (15-month contract)
Manager of Taxation, Procurement & Risk
Financial Analyst (12-month contract)

Deputy Treasurer/Manager of Financial Services (12-month contract)

Learn more about each position at ramara.ca/employment.

The Ramara Township Public Library is looking for an eServices & Children’s Librarian (temporary, full-time). Visit the Ramara Township Public Library's employment page for details.

Recreation Report

Summer Camps and Programming

Ramara Day Camp is running all summer long at the Ramara Centre, offering themed weeks filled with crafts, games, sports, and outdoor fun. It’s a great way for kids to stay active, make friends, and enjoy new experiences close to home.

Discovery Camp Ages 4-6
Adventure Camp Ages 7-11

$170 for a week and before and aftercare available at an extra cost.

Expanded Programming:

Families and residents across Ramara can find more ways to play, create and stay active this summer. Building on community feedback, the Township has introduced new day camps for ages 9 to 12, along with new adult programs that will run throughout July and August in parks and community halls across the municipality.

New Day Camps:

Beyond the Path (July 28 to Aug. 1, 2025)
Location: Joyland Beach Community Centre
A nature-based camp for curious explorers, with hiking, wildlife discovery, and environmental learning in both park and trail settings.

Creative Arts Camp (Aug. 11 to 15, 2025)
Location: Udney Community Centre
A fun and expressive camp filled with visual art, performance, and creativity, offering opportunities to sing, dance, act, and make meaningful creations.

Camps run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with optional extended care in the morning and afternoon. Weekly registration is $180.

Expanded Summer Adult Programming:

Outdoor Pickleball
Line Dancing
Outdoor Yoga

For full program details or to register visit www.ramara.ca/recreation or call us at 705-325-3091.

Township News and Information

Shaping Today for a Stronger Tomorrow

The Township of Ramara has realigned its organizational structure as part of ongoing efforts to modernize operations and better support both staff and the community we serve.

This update includes the creation of three General Manager roles to strengthen leadership and oversight across key areas: Corporate Services & Legal, Development & Infrastructure, and Emergency & Protective Services. The changes aim to improve internal coordination, enhance communication, and bring greater stability as the Township continues to grow.

In addition to the structural changes, the Township also completed a comprehensive review of its compensation and benefits for non-union staff. These updates ensure fairness, competitiveness with the broader municipal sector, and long-term sustainability. All changes have been planned within the 2025 approved budget. Future staffing or compensation impacts will be reviewed and approved through the regular annual budget process.

Read the Full News Release to Learn More

Adoption of Updated Official Plan

The Township of Ramara has officially adopted its updated 2025 Official Plan, following Council ratification on June 2, 2025. The plan now moves to the County of Simcoe for final approval, in accordance with the requirements of the Planning Act.

Ramara’s Official Plan is a long-term planning document that guides land use, development, environmental protection, and resource management within the Township. The newly adopted plan replaces the Township’s 2003 Official Plan, bringing it into alignment with updated provincial legislation, County of Simcoe policies, and community needs.

Read the Draft Official Plan and Learn More

Adoption of Asset Management Plan and Policy

The Township of Ramara delivers many important services to residents that are dependant on our infrastructure such as roads, bridges, community centres, clean water and wastewater treatment. On June 23, 2025, Council adopted the Asset Management Policy and Asset Management Plan. The policy and plan establish the framework for asset management and ensures that the Township is able to maintain its infrastructure. It also provides direction for the municipality to make smart decisions about future investments and provide the level of service needed to support our residents while being financially responsible.

Read the Asset Management Plan and Policy

Adoption of Couchiching Community Safety and Well-Being Plan 2025-2029

Council adopted the Couchiching Community Safety and Well-Being (CSWB) Plan 2025–2029 at its meeting on June 23, 2025. The plan is a collaborative regional initiative involving Ramara, Orillia, Oro-Medonte, and Severn, aimed at improving the quality of life and safety for all residents. Guided by community engagement, the plan identifies four key priority areas:

Mental Health & Addictions
Housing & Homelessness
Access to Services
Community Belonging & Inclusion

The CSWB Plan outlines actionable strategies for each area and emphasizes a proactive, preventative approach to address root causes of crime, vulnerability, and social issues.

Read the Couchiching Community Safety and Well-Being Plan

Grant Funding Received

Ice Storm 2025 Recovery

The Township of Ramara recently received a $10,000 grant supporting our clean-up and recovery efforts following the historic spring ice storm. Ramara was one of 50 communities receiving funding as part of Hydro One’s Ice Storm 2025 Recovery Initiative. This funding will help offset the costs of repairing the extensive damage caused to our parks, trails, roadways and public infrastructure. The grant will be used for eligible recovery-related expenses, with staff currently reviewing options to support both immediate needs and long-term emergency preparedness.

Ramara Centre Improvements

On June 14, 2025, members of Ramara Township joined MPP for Simcoe North and Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Response, Jill Dunlop, to announce that the Township received $150,000 in funding for upgrades to the Ramara Centre, including a new roof and improvements to the ball diamond, and playground. This investment is part of the Province of Ontario Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund.

Grant Announcement

'Seniors' Social' Program

On June 28, 2025, the Township of Ramara received $7,140 in funding as part of the Seniors Community Grant Program which is designed to help seniors increase independence, reduce social isolation and create positive connections. This funding allows the Township to continue offering our 'Seniors’ Social' program, which brings older adults together through fun, engaging, and informative activities. From fitness and crafts to guest speakers and fraud prevention education, these sessions help keep our seniors active, connected, and informed. For more information on the 'Seniors' Social' program, visit www.ramara.ca/recreation.

Bayshore Village Sewer Works Project

Bayshore Village currently uses a lagoon and spray field system to manage treated wastewater effluent. Due to seasonal limitations, regulatory requirements, and impacts on the community, the Township plans to transition to a more modern and sustainable solution beginning in 2026.

For the 2025 season, the Township is implementing a hybrid approach to manage effluent from the Bayshore lagoons. This includes:

Spray operations beginning the week of July 7, 2025, focused in the South Field (weather dependent).
Effluent hauling to the Lagoon City Wastewater Treatment Plant starting the week of July 7, 2025.
This approach was approved by Council at the June 23, 2025, meeting, alongside a new hauling contract valued at $897,000 plus HST, which is less than previous years by $121,000. The cost was previously approved in the 2025 municipal budget.

Minimizing Disruptions

The Township recognizes the importance of minimizing operational impacts on the community. This year’s hybrid model has been intentionally designed to:

Spread out activities over the season to avoid concentrated disruptions.
Maintain regulatory compliance while preparing for long-term system improvements.

Learn more about Bayshore Village Sewer Works

Ramara Servicing Connect:
Maple Trail, Lone Birch Trail, Ridge Avenue and Simcoe Road Servicing

On June 2, 2025, Council approved moving forward with the installation of a low-pressure sanitary sewer system on Maple Trail, Lone Birch Trail, Ridge Avenue, and Simcoe Road. A contract has been awarded to K.J. Excavating Inc. to complete the work. Property owners along these roads will be required to contribute their share of the project costs and must connect to the new system within three years of its substantial completion.

What impacted residents should know:

This project is still in the early stages, and we understand that residents have many important questions.
The Township is committed to providing clear and timely updates to impacted residents as planning and construction progress.
While final project costs will be confirmed after construction is complete, current estimates suggest an approximate cost of $55,000 per property. This includes built-in contingencies to help with planning.

Learn more about Ramara Servicing Connect

Goose Management Program Underway

The Township of Ramara is continuing efforts to manage the goose population in public spaces. This program runs through the active months (April to July) using safe, humane, federally-approved methods to reduce geese in parks and beaches across Township-owned properties located in:

Bayshore Village
Lagoon City
Lovely Day Park & Fire Station 2 in Atherley

Residents can expect to see trained dogs, patrol vehicles, avian deterrents (like laser lights and sounds), all handled by a licensed wildlife control expert.

Learn more about The Township's Goose Management Program

By-law Spotlight

Long Grass

Did you know? Grass and weeds on your property must be kept under 30 cm (12 inches) between June 1 and Oct. 14 in many residential areas in the Township of Ramara. This includes Lagoon City, Bayshore Village and many shorelines areas.

Let’s work together to keep our neighbourhoods clean, safe and enjoyable!

Learn more about the Long Grass By-law

Recreation Vehicles

Did you know that residential lots in Ramara Township with properties less than 0.4 ha or 0.99 ac in size can store up to two recreational vehicles, trailers, or boats (in any combination).

They can only be kept outdoors for six consecutive months each year.
You must live on the property (either own or rent) to store them there.
Vacant lots? Not allowed (except under certain zoning).

Learn more storing recreation vehicles in Ramara

Fireworks

Fireworks are fun, but must be enjoyed legally! Here's what you need to know about fireworks regulations in Ramara this summer:

Setting off fireworks is prohibited:

• In Lagoon City

• At Short-Term Rentals

• On roads or public land

• During a Fire Ban

Permits are required in areas like Bayshore Village and properties zoned SR, VR, and H; however, no permit is needed on holidays like:

• New Year's Eve & Canada Day (dusk to 1 a.m.)

• Victoria Day & Labour Day weekends (dusk to 11 p.m.)

Learn more about the Fireworks By-law

Have a by-law concern? Use our convenient online reporting tool. Visit www.ramara.ca/ReportIt to report your concern.

Township Reminders

After-Hours Number and Reporting

The Township of Ramara's regular office hours are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., from Monday to Friday, with the exception of holidays. Outside of these hours, residents can contact the following:

Bylaw Enforcement: Email bylaw@ramara.ca
Canine Control (dogs at large and injured dogs): Call 705-623-7295
Open-Air Burning Complaints: Call 705-484-5374 ext. 253.
Municipal Roads, Water or Sewer Emergencies: Call 705-484-5374 and select option 9

Non-emergency concerns for issues occurring within the Township of Ramara, and relating to the Township's areas of responsibility, can also be reported online. A valid email address is required to create a service request ticket.

Learn How to Report a Concern

Township's Community Information System: Alertable

The Township of Ramara's Community Information System (CIS) provides alerts about emergencies and other important Township and community news directly to all your devices including e-mail, home phone, cell phone and even fax. Ramara CIS uses the Alertable platform to allow for multiple means of communication for both emergency alerts and relaying Township and community information.

Fire Facts: Open-Air Burning

Open-air burning is permitted in the Township of Ramara! Before you burn, make sure you are following the Township's Open-Air Burning Bylaw to keep the community safe!

For residential properties:

Check the Fire Danger Rating: Currently, it’s moderate.
The volume of materials being burned is no larger than 1 metre cubed and should consist only of organic materials (like dry untreated wood, leaves, grass, or paper).
Prepare the Area: Ensure the fire is surrounded by non-combustible materials.
Be Ready to Extinguish: Always have a form of extinguishment on hand.
Stay Alert: The fire must be supervised at all times.

To report a burning complaint, call 705-484-5374 ext. 253.

See the Open-Air Burning Bylaw and Learn More

Ramara Township Public Library Information, Events and Highlights

July at the Library!

July is here and summer is in full swing! Whether you're soaking up the sun or looking for ways to stay cool, the library has something for everyone. We've got Summer Reading Clubs and programs for kids, teens, and adults! Plus, we always have great books, fun events, and a welcoming space to explore all month long!

Don’t miss out! Check out our Eventbrite page for all summer programs, or sign up for our eNewsletter to stay in the loop!

Summer Reading (Join at any time - June 27 to August 22)

No matter your age, the library has a summer reading program just for you. Whether you're reading together, independently, or diving into your next YA favourite, you can track your progress, collect fun items like beads, stickers, or prizes, and earn entries for exciting rewards.

Ready to Read | Ages 0–5 | Read Together
TD Summer Reading Club | Ages 5–12 | Read Independently
YA Summer Reading Program | Ages 12 – 18

Adult Programs (Registration Required)

Ramara Book Club: Wednesday, July 30 | 1:30 PM | Ramara Centre
Book: This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger
Sunset Stories – An Outdoor Book Club: Wednesday, July 23 | 7 PM | Lagoon City Park
Book: This Summer Will Be Different by Carly Fortune
Shoot for the Stars with Ian Wheelband: Wednesday, July 30 | 6:30 PM
The Creative Cabana – Adult Craft Club: Thursday, July 17 | 6:30 PM
Tech Series for Seniors: Cybersafety for Seniors: Thursday, July 31 | 2 PM

Children’s Programs (Registration required unless otherwise stated)

Saturday Craft Club Drop-In & Self-Led Activities: Saturdays 10 AM - 3 PM | Ramara Centre | No registration required.
Gizmo Garage: Drop-In & Self-Led Activities: Saturdays 10 AM - 2 PM | Brechin Location | No registration required.
Summer Shuffle: Thursdays | 10:30 AM | Ages 6-12 | Ramara Centre
Bookish Builders: Thursdays | 2:00 PM | Ages 6-12 | Brechin Location
Garden Snacks & Stories: Friday, July 11 | 10:30 AM | All Ages | Ramara Centre
ABC Explorers: Friday, July 18 & July 25 | 10:30 AM | Ages 0-6 | Various Locations

Teen Programs

Teen Take & Makes | July 18 & August 15 | Ages 13-18
Get a fun, ready-to-go activity for yourself, your teen, or a teen in your life! Pick up Teen Take & Make Kits starting July 18th and August 15th. No registration required, just stop by while supplies last! Keep your eye out on our social media for what will be included in the kits.

Teens in Action | For ages 13+ or in/entering high school.
Earn your volunteer hours while having fun this summer! Let us know when you’re available, and we’ll schedule you at a time that works best for you! Email info@ramarapubliclibrary.org to get started!

Check out more on the Ramara Township Public Library's Eventbrite page!

Community Calendar

Have you ever wondered when a Committee or a Council meeting takes place or what the Ramara Recreation and Library teams are up to? Check out our community calendar that highlights various events, public meetings or programming that are happening in the Township. Visit ramara.ca/calendar.