April 2026 Ramara Bulletin | Township of Ramara

- Apr 30, 2026

Ramara Monthly Bulletin

Important Dates and Opportunities

Upcoming Council and Committee Meetings

Tuesday, May 5: Committee of Adjustment
Monday, May 11: Ramara Council Meeting (including Committee of the Whole)
Thursday, May 14: Lagoon City Parks and Waterways Commission
Tuesday, May 20: Ramara Trails Committee

All regular Council meetings may be 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.

Employment Opportunities

We’re hiring! Available positions include:

Executive Assistant to Mayor/Council and Corporate Services
Clerk
Infrastructure Service Manager

Learn more at ramara.ca/employment.

Municipal and School Board Election 2026

The Municipal and School Board Election will take place Monday, October 26, 2026.

Voter Registration

Elections Ontario is responsible for maintaining the Permanent Register of Electors for Ontario, commonly known as the Voters' List. In order to vote in an upcoming Municipal or Provincial Election, you must be on the Voters' List.

Confirm, update, add, or remove your personal and/or property information through Election Ontario's Voter Registration Application.

The Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) is responsible for collecting school support information. Residents are encouraged to review and update their school support designation with MPAC by June 1, 2026, to ensure accurate information is provided to Elections Ontario for the October 26, 2026, elections. Updates can be made using MPAC’s Online School Support Tool.

Nomination Period - May 1

As of May 1, 2026, nominations may be filed in person, or by an agent, with the Township Clerk during normal office hours prior to Nomination Day or on Nomination Day being Friday, August 21, 2026, between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. If you wish to file a nomination, please make an appointment by emailing election@ramara.ca.

Nominations must be submitted on the prescribed form and must include endorsement signatures from 25 eligible electors (form available by mid-April at the Administration Centre in Brechin), be signed by the person being nominated and be accompanied by the prescribed nomination filing fee ($200 for Head of Council and $100 for all other offices).

Information as to qualifications for candidates may be obtained at the Administration Centre or the Township website (www.ramara.ca/election).

Nomination Papers must be filed with the Municipal Clerk before you can accept contributions or spend money for your campaign.

The offices for which persons may be nominated are:

Township of Ramara (2297 Highway 12, Brechin):

Mayor – 1 to be elected (at large)
Deputy Mayor – 1 to be elected (at large)
Councillor, Ward 1 – 1 to be elected
Councillor, Ward 2 – 1 to be elected
Councillor, Ward 3 – 1 to be elected
Councillor, Ward 4 – 1 to be elected
Councillor, Ward 5 – 1 to be elected

School Trustees:

Member - English Language Public District Board #17
Member - English Language Separate District Board #44
Member - French Language Public District Board #58
Member - French Language Separate District Board #64

Learn more about the 2026 Municipal and School Board Election

Holiday Schedule - Victoria Day

The Township Administration Building will be closed for Victoria on Monday, May 18, 2026, reopening on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 9 a.m.

During this time, online services remain available including:

Report an infrastructure or bylaw concern
View interactive mapping for trails, zoning and bylaw information
Pay a bill
Sign up for paperless billing
Register for a recreation program
And beyond

See all online services at ramara.ca/OnlineServices.

After-Hours Phone Numbers

Canine Control - 705-623-7295
Roads, Municipal Water/Sewer - 705-484-5374, Option 9

Township News and Information

Flooding Impacts & Updates

Throughout March and April, the Township of Ramara has been actively monitoring elevated water levels and responding to localized flooding impacts across the community. Township crews have worked to maintain safe and passable roadways as much as possible.

While water levels in many areas have begun to stabilize, and are expected to gradually recede, some locations, including Lake St. John and Lake Simcoe, continue to experience higher levels.

Residents have inquired about a potential State of Emergency. At this time, the Township has not declared a State of Emergency as conditions have not met the required threshold, which includes risks to life, impacts to critical infrastructure, and the Township’s capacity to respond using available resources. The Township remains in regular contact with the County of Simcoe and our provincial partners and continues to closely monitor the situation.

Sandbag stations have been established and continue to be restocked across the Township at this time. Materials may be removed in the coming days/weeks as demand diminishes.

Materials are available for residents at the following locations:

• Brechin Ball Diamond – 3219 Ramara Rd. 47
• Yard 3 – 7305 County Rd. 169
• Longford Mills Community Centre – 3854 Longford Mills Rd.
• Bluebird Park – 6316 Bluebird St.
• Udney Community Centre – 2347 Concession Road 10

Residents are reminded to bring their own shovel and be prepared to fill and load sandbags into their vehicle.

The Township recognizes the challenges and stress that flooding can bring to residents, particularly those in low-lying or waterfront areas. Community members are encouraged to continue taking precautions, checking in on neighbours who may need assistance, and following all safety guidance when dealing with flood-affected areas.

Flood Safety Reminders:

If your home has experienced flooding, avoid entering areas where water may be in contact with electrical outlets, appliances, or panels
Do not enter a flooded basement if electricity may still be on
Contact your utility provider if you need to safely disconnect power or gas
Protect your well from flood water
Wear appropriate protective gear (gloves, boots) during cleanup

More information and resources regarding waterways and flooding can be found at:

For the latest updates, please visit www.ramara.ca/news or follow the Township on social media.

Ramara Welcomes In-Person Primary Health Care Closer to Home

The Township of Ramara, in collaboration with the Couchiching Ontario Health Team (COHT) and the Orillia & Lake Country Physician Recruitment Committee (OLCPR), is pleased to announce that in-person primary health care is coming closer to home in Ramara.

Dr. Anoushka Mohammadiankhorasani (Dr. Mo), a primary care physician, will begin serving the community starting in July, with a new medical practice located at the Ramara Medical Centre in Brechin.

Dr. Mo is a family physician with more than 12 years experience practicing in Iran and Canada including maternity and newborn care, adolescent, elderly and mental-health care. Prior to arriving in Ramara, she completed a clinical field assessment in Alliston. Dr. Mo will be providing inpatient and emergency care at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital in addition to her family practice in Ramara.

The new medical practice in Ramara will operate as part of the Couchiching Ontario Health Team, Primary Care Network (PCN), where local health-care providers work together to enhance access to high-quality, integrated services. Through this partnership, allied health professionals from the Couchiching Family Health Team will support services in Ramara, helping to better serve the needs of local residents.

How to Register/Roster with Dr. Mo

Residents of Ramara who are interested in being rostered with Dr. Mo are encouraged to register through Health Care Connect.

Phone: 1-800-445-1822 or call 811
Website: ontario.ca/HealthCareConnect

Residents who are already attached to a primary health care provider outside of the region and are interested in becoming a patient of the new physician in Ramara are encouraged to register with Health Care Connect. Patients do not need to de-roster from their current physician to go on the Health Care Connect list. While all registrations are welcome, priority will be given to Ramara residents as part of this local physician recruitment initiative.

In addition, the COHT and OLCPR continue their efforts to secure a second physician to practise alongside Dr. Mo in Ramara.

With the introduction of in-person physician services, the Good Doctors virtual care clinic will no longer be operating at the Ramara Medical Centre effective June 17, 2026. This will provide time for the new practice to be established.

For more information on health-care service options in Ramara, visit ramara.ca/HealthCare.

Spring Road Maintenance

The Township has begun spring road maintenance including annual street sweeping operations and grading (weather dependent).

Street Sweeping

Steet sweeping plays an important role in maintaining safe and clean roadways by removing sand, salt, and debris left behind from winter operations.

All paved municipal roads, parking lots, and key public spaces will be swept in an effort to improve road safety, protect stormwater systems, and enhance our community's appearance.

How you can help:

Please avoid parking on the street during sweeping operations where possible to allow crews to complete their work efficiently.

Gravel Road Grading
The Township has begun grading gravel roads to restore smooth driving surfaces following winter wear, currently focusing on addressing urgent needs like washouts, rutting and holes.

Grading is an essential part of seasonal road maintenance, helping to eliminate ruts, potholes, and washboarding that develop over time.

Here’s what residents should know:

Grading requires the right moisture levels. Too wet or too dry conditions can impact effectiveness.
It's a three-step process with ideal conditions including one day to dry, one day to grade, and one day for the surface to set and compact.
Crews will continue grading throughout the spring and summer months as needed.

A reminder that freshly graded roads may be soft or loose. Please reduce speed and drive with caution.

For more information, visit www.ramara.ca/roads.

May Proclaimed MS Awareness Month in Ramara

At the April 27, 2026, Council meeting, Mayor Basil Clarke proclaimed the month of May as MS Awareness Month in the Township of Ramara.

Multiple sclerosis is a neurological disease affecting approximately 1 in 400 Canadians, with over 90,000 people living with MS across the country. Symptoms can vary widely and may include fatigue, vision problems, mobility challenges, and cognitive changes,impacting daily life in different ways.

This month, we recognize the important work of MS Canada in supporting both research and services for those affected, and we acknowledge the dedication of volunteers, donors, and community members helping to drive progress toward a world free of MS.

Read the full proclamation dated April 27, 2026.

Residents are encouraged to learn more, get involved, and access resources by visiting www.mscanada.ca.

May 4-10, 2026, Proclaimed as Children's Mental Health Week in Ramara

At the April 27, 2026, Council meeting, Mayor Basil Clarke proclaimed May 4-10, 2026, as Children's Mental Health Week in Ramara.

This week highlights the importance of mental health in children’s overall well-being and the need for accessible supports for youth and their families. It also serves as an opportunity to reduce stigma and promote open conversations around mental health.

Residents are encouraged to take time this week to learn more, start conversations, and support the mental health of children and youth in our community.

Read the full proclamation dated April 27, 2026.

For more information and access to services, visit New Path Youth and Family Services at www.newpath.ca.

Recreation Update

Summer Day Camps

Get ready for a summer full of adventure, creativity, and unforgettable memories! The Township of Ramara’s Summer Day Camps offer exciting experiences for kids of all ages.

Each week is packed with games, outdoor activities, creative crafts, and themed fun, all led by enthusiastic and caring staff. It’s the perfect way for kids to stay active, make new friends, and enjoy everything summer has to offer.

View the Summer Camp Guide to check out all the great programs available. Registration is underway. Spots are filling up quickly.

Visit ramara.ca/recreation for a full list of available programs, schedules, and registration details.

Fire Safety Tips

Open-Air Burning Reminders

The Township of Ramara has an Open Air Burning Bylaw to help residents burn safely. Before burning, check local weather conditions and the below requirements.

Residential Properties

Burn permits are not required for residential properties. Residents have been given approval to open air burn and must follow the below criteria:

There is no declared fire ban in effect.
There is no air quality advisory in effect, as determined by Environment Canada.
The volume of material being burned is no larger in size than 1 metre cubed.
The fire is surrounded by non-combustible material to prevent spread.
The fire is a minimum of 5 metres from a dwelling, building, structure, overhanging vegetation and property line.
The fire is supervised at all times.
The direction of smoke does not hinder traffic or the quality of life of neighbouring people.
Wind speed is less than 25 km/h and will have no adverse effect on control of the fire.
The materials being burned are organic in nature such as dry (untreated) wood, leaves, grass and paper.
The owner of the property has granted permission to individual to open air burn.
Form of extinguishment readily available (water and/or extinguisher)

Bona Fide Farmers

Bona Fide Farmers are allowed to have larger burns to help with farming operations; however, they must contact the Fire Department first to provide details and obtain approval.

Bona Fide Farmers who will be burning on a Saturday or Sunday are encouraged to call for pre-approval during regular business hours.

For approval, individuals are asked to call 705-484-5374 ext. 253 and meet the following criteria:

There is no declared fire ban in effect.
There is no air quality advisory in effect, as determined by Environment Canada.
The volume of material being burned is contained in no more than three piles of a maximum size of 5 metres by 5 metres by 2 metres high each.
The fire is surrounded by non-combustible material to prevent spread.
The fire is a minimum of 30 metres from a dwelling, building, structure and property line.
The fire is supervised at all times.
The direction of the smoke does not hinder traffic or the quality of life of neighbouring people.
Wind speed is less than 25 km/h and will have no adverse effect on control of the fire.
The materials being burned are organic in nature such as dry (untreated) wood, leaves, grass, and paper.
The owner of the property has granted permission to a bona fide farmer to open air burn.

Report a Burning Complaint

To report a burning complaint to Ramara Fire & Rescue Services, call the following numbers:

During Business Hours - 705-484-5374 ext. 253.
After Hours - 705-325-5201, Option 4

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 email, 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.

Sign Up for Alertable

Library Information, Events and Highlights

Happy Spring from Ramara Library!

There are so many cool things you can borrow from the library. Beyond books and DVDs, the library has Nordic walking poles, binoculars, Ontario Parks permits, and even a Toronto Zoo pass. Find out everything you can borrow from the library in our online catalogue!

Smile Cookie Campaign

Many of the items we lend out and programs we do are sponsored by the Friends of the Ramara Public Library. The Friends fundraise year-round for library programs, events, collections, furniture and more. This year, the Friends has been chosen as the recipient of the Smile Cookie campaign at the Brechin Tim Hortons! All Smile Cookies purchased from the Brechin Tim Hortons from April 27 – May 3 will go to support the Friends fundraising. If you would like one box (or more!) of Smile Cookies, you can pick up a pre-order form from either library branch. Sweet!

Adult Programs (Registration Required)  

Celebrating World Migration Day @ the Robert L Bowles Nature Centre: Saturday, May 2 @ 10 AM – 11:30 AM | 1296 Concession Road 10 | Register on Eventbrite
Organizing, Downsizing and Decluttering: Thursday, May 7 @ 6:30 PM – 8 PM | Ramara Centre | Register on Eventbrite

Teen Programs (Registration Required)

Teen Tarot: Thursday, May 21 @ 4:30 PM | Brechin | Register on Eventbrite
Teen volunteer hours: Tuesdays @ 4:30 – 6 PM | Ramara Centre | Register on Eventbrite

Children’s Programs (Registration Required)

Little Adventurers (ages 0 – 4): Fridays @ 10 AM | Ramara Centre | Register on Eventbrite or Drop in
Mother’s Day Craft: Saturday, May 9 @ 10 AM or 2 PM | Ramara Centre | Register on Eventbrite

 Highlights 

 Invasive Plants with Simcoe County Master Gardeners

Ramara Centre | Tuesday, May 12 @ 7 PM – 8 PM | Register on Eventbrite

Join Joan from Simcoe County Master Gardeners for an informative presentation about invasive species in your garden. Trendy or harmful? Come and find out and keep your space safe for you and the environment! We thank the Friends of the Ramara Library and Ramara Quilting Club for sponsoring this program and partnership with Rooted in Ramara.

De-Escalation Tools for Frontline Staff

Brechin Legion | Thursday, May 14 @ 1 PM - 4 PM | Register online

Join Elise, CEO of Ramara Township Public Library, for an engaging and practical session focused on managing difficult interactions in frontline workplaces. This workshop draws on real life scenarios submitted by businesses, ensuring the learning is relevant, current, and immediately applicable. Participants will be introduced to four practical tools designed to help de-escalate tense situations, respond effectively when de-escalation is not possible, and recover professionally and personally after challenging encounters.

Victoria Day Take & Make Kit

Ramara Centre | Register by Saturday, May 2 | Register on Eventbrite

Looking for something to do during the May long weekend? Register your family for a free take & make kit all about gardening, seeds, and food! Yum! Register by Saturday, May 2 for pick up starting on Saturday, May 9!

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.

Did you know that community boards and organizations can also add events to the calendar if the event meets the following criteria:

Organized or funded by another level of government.
Organized by a government-funded agency or board.
Organized by a Township of Ramara affiliated committee.
Funded in full or in part, the Township of Ramara.
Sponsored by the Township of Ramara.
Organized by a registered charitable organization or service club operating within the Township of Ramara.
Located in a facility owned by the Township of Ramara.

Visit ramara.ca/calendar.