July 2026 Ramara Bulletin
Important Dates and Opportunities
Upcoming Council and Committee Meetings
- Monday, July 27: Special Meeting of Council re Interviews for Lagoon City Parks and Waterways Commission Vacancy
- Friday, August 7: Economic Development Committee
- Monday, August 10: Regular Council Meeting (including Committee of the Whole)
- Tuesday, August 11: Committee of Adjustment
- Tuesday, August 11: Property Standards Committee
- Thursday, August 13: Lagoon City Parks and Waterways Commission
- Friday, August 14: Joint Accessibility Advisory Committee
- Tuesday, August 25: Ramara Trails Committee
- Wednesday, August 26: Climate Action Committee
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.
Civic Holiday Schedule
The Township of Ramara administration building and facilities will be closed on Monday, August 3, 2026, for the Civic Holiday. Regular business hours will resume on Tuesday, August 4, 2026.
Online services will remain available, including the following:
- Report an infrastructure or bylaw concern
- View interactive mapping for trails, zoning and by-law information
- Pay a bill
- Sign up for paperless billing
- And beyond
See all online services at ramara.ca/OnlineServices.
Municipal and School Board Election 2026
The 2026 Municipal and School Board Election will be held on Monday, October 26, 2026. Nominations are open from May 1 to August 21, 2026. Make sure you’re on the voters’ list, learn how to vote in the Township of Ramara, find out how to become a candidate or view the unofficial list of candidates. Learn more at ramara.ca/election.
Nominations
Thinking of running for Council? 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.
If you are interested in running as a School Board Trustee, please note that nominations must be filed with the appropriate municipality, either the City of Orillia or the City of Barrie, depending on the position. Visit ramara.ca/election for more details.
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 Elections Ontario's Voter Registration Application until August 12, 2026.
As of August 14, 2026, responsibility for the Voters' List will transfer to local municipalities. Updates can be made directly with the Township of Ramara following this date. Further information about how to update, add, or remove personal and/or property information after August 14 will be available at ramara.ca/election or by contacting election@ramara.ca.
Learn more about the 2026 Municipal and School Board Election
Township News and Information
Ramara welcomes Dr. Mehdi Dadashi
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 a second physician will be joining the Ramara Medical Centre in Brechin this fall.
Dr. Dadashi will join Dr. Anoushka Mohammadiankhorasani (Dr. Mo), who has now opened her practice at the Ramara Medical Centre in Brechin, and is connecting with patients. Together, the two physicians will help expand access to primary care services for residents and strengthen local health-care options closer to home.
Dr. Dadashi brings 20 years of clinical experience in family medicine and emergency care. Throughout his career, he has provided comprehensive primary care to patients of all ages, including chronic disease management, preventive care, health promotion, and urgent medical care. He has also worked extensively in hospital and emergency settings managing acute and complex medical conditions. In addition to joining the Ramara Medical Centre, Dr. Dadashi will provide services at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital.
How to Become a Patient:
Priority will continue to be given to Ramara residents as part of this local physician recruitment initiative.
Residents who have not yet registered and are interested in becoming a patient of Dr. Mo or Dr. Dadashi should register through Health Care Connect at:
Phone: 1-800-445-1822 or call 811
Website: ontario.ca/HealthCareConnect
Disaster Recovery Assistance for Ontarians (DRAO) Program Activated for April 2026 Flooding – Lake St. John Area, Ramara
The Province of Ontario has announced that the Lake St. John area within the Township of Ramara has been designated as an activation area under the Disaster Recovery Assistance for Ontarians (DRAO) program for flooding that occurred in April 2026.
Residents and property owners are encouraged to review the DRAO website, including the official activation area map, to determine whether their property is located within the designated activation area. Eligibility for the program is determined by the Province of Ontario.
The deadline to apply for the program is November 16, 2026. Guidelines and application forms are available on the DRAO website.
Lagoon City Canal Maintenance Update
The Township of Ramara is pleased to advise residents that authorization from the Federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) has been received to proceed with skimming and mechanical aquatic weed harvesting activities within Lagoon City's canal system.
Township crews have mobilized and canal weed harvesting operations began on July 21, 2026.
We sincerely appreciate the patience and understanding of residents throughout this process and recognize the significant impacts the current condition of the canals has had on navigation, recreation and residents' enjoyment of the waterways.
Residents are encouraged to visit ramara.ca/canals for the latest harvesting routes and updates.
New Traffic Calming Policy
Residents concerned about speeding and neighbourhood traffic now have a clear and consistent process for requesting traffic calming measures following Council's adoption of the Township of Ramara's new Traffic Calming Policy.
Approved by Council at its meeting on July 13, 2026, the policy establishes a standardized approach for evaluating traffic concerns on eligible municipal roads. The new process, which is now in effect, ensures requests are reviewed fairly and consistently using technical data, community input and engineering best practices.
Residents are encouraged to review the Traffic Calming Policy and learn more about the application process by visiting ramara.ca/TrafficCalming.
Recreation Update
Summer Camp
Summer Camp is off to an amazing start at the Ramara Centre! The Recreation Team has been having a blast with campers, and this week marked an exciting milestone as we welcomed our very first off-site camp at the Joyland Beach Community Centre. The summer's fun is far from over; there's still a whole month of adventures, games, and memories to make!
New Playground
The Township is also thrilled to share that the brand-new playground at the Ramara Centre is officially open! It's been wonderful seeing so many smiling faces enjoying the new play structure, and we can't wait to see it become a gathering spot for families.
Fall Flag Football
Flag Football is back at the Ramara Centre this fall! Registration is underway and closes July 31, 2026, at noon, so don't miss your chance to be part of this exciting program offered in partnership with Sportsklub. Register at ramara.ca/recreation.
Ride Ramara - Guided Trail Rides
Get outside and explore Ramara's beautiful trail network with Ride Ramara! These free, guided group rides are open to all ages and skill levels and are organized by the Township of Ramara Trails Committee and led by Trails Committee member Kathy Manners.
Upcoming rides:
- Wednesday, August 26 – Lovely Day Park, Bayshore Trail
- Wednesday, September 23 – Washago Trail
Rides begin at 9:30 a.m. Registration through Ramara Recreation is required to participate. Register by calling the Recreation Office at 705-325-3091.
Whether you're a regular rider or just looking to explore Ramara's trails in a fun and welcoming group, join Kathy and discover some of the community's scenic routes this summer!
Fall Programs
While we're soaking up every moment of summer, the Recreation Team is already busy preparing an exciting lineup of fall programs. Be sure to mark your calendars; our returning favorites and brand-new programs will be released on August 12, 2026, at 12 p.m. We can't wait to share what's in store!
Fire Safety Tips
Be Prepared for Summer Weather and Wildfire Risks
Wildfires are affecting communities across Canada, and smoke can travel long distances. Poor air quality is an important reminder that wildfire preparedness begins at home.
FireSmart is a national program that provides practical steps to reduce the risk of wildfire damage. Residents can help protect their homes and properties by:
- Removing dry leaves, pine needles and other combustible debris from roofs, gutters, decks and around the home.
- Keeping firewood and other combustible materials away from buildings.
- Trimming vegetation and removing dead branches.
- Keeping grass cut and maintaining a clear space around structures.
- Ensuring driveways and civic addresses are clearly visible and accessible to emergency vehicles.
Learn more and complete a home self-assessment through FireSmart Canada.
Poor Air Quality Means No Open-Air Burning
Wildfire smoke can significantly affect local air quality. Under the Township’s Open-Air Burning By-law 2025.32, burning is permitted only when “there is no air quality advisory in effect, as determined by Environment Canada.”
If an air quality advisory is in effect, do not burn. Anyone having an open-air fire in Ramara is responsible for knowing and following all requirements of the Open-Air Burning By-law. Check current air-quality conditions and the Township’s fire danger rating before burning.
The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) uses numbers and colours to show the level of health risk from air pollution:
- Blue – Low risk (1–3): Outdoor activities can generally continue as usual.
- Yellow to orange – Moderate risk (4–6): People who are more vulnerable should consider reducing strenuous outdoor activity if they experience symptoms.
- Red – High risk (7–10): Reduce or reschedule strenuous outdoor activity, particularly if you are at greater risk.
- Dark red or burgundy – Very high risk (10+): Avoid strenuous outdoor activity and follow public-health advice.
Children, older adults, pregnant individuals and people with heart or breathing conditions may be affected sooner. When air quality is poor, reduce strenuous outdoor activity, keep windows closed when possible and follow public-health recommendations.
Watch the Weather
Ramara has experienced several strong thunderstorms this summer. Conditions can change quickly, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, lightning, hail, fallen trees and power outages.
Monitor the forecast, secure loose outdoor items and move indoors when thunder is heard. Stay away from downed power lines. During a power outage, operate generators outdoors, well away from windows, doors and vents, and ensure your home has working carbon monoxide alarms.
Wear Your Life-jacket
There has been an increase in drownings this summer. Whether you are boating, paddling, fishing or spending time near the water, wear a properly fitted life-jacket or personal flotation device. A life-jacket can only protect you when you are wearing it. Children and inexperienced swimmers should always be closely supervised around water.
Heat Warnings and Cooling Centres
During a heat warning, drink plenty of water, limit strenuous outdoor activity, seek shade or air conditioning and check on family members, friends and neighbours who may be more vulnerable.
When activated, Township facilities such as the Township Administration Building in Brechin and the Ramara Centre in Atherley may open as cooling and hydration centres. Locations and operating hours will be communicated through the Township website, social-media channels and Alertable notifications. Residents should monitor these channels, as locations and hours may change depending on conditions.
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. If you have reported a concern, and have not received a response, please ensure you check your junk mail.
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.
Library Information, Events and Highlights
Celebrate summer with the library!
There are so many ways to get out and explore this summer! Borrow an Ontario Parks Pass, check out Nordic walking poles, and don't forget to download a free audiobook for your next road trip. Want to learn more? Visit your library's website at https://www.RamaraPublicLibrary.org/.
Adult Programs (Registration Required)
- Learning CloudLibrary (eBooks and eAudiobooks): Thursday, August 6 @ 10:30 AM | Ramara Centre | Register on Eventbrite
- Get to Know Dahlias with Bounty and Bloom: Thursday, August 11 @ 7:00 PM | Ramara Centre | Register on Eventbrite
- Craft / Plant / Puzzle Swap: Saturday, August 15 @ 10 AM - 2 PM | Ramara Centre | Find out more on Eventbrite
Teen Programs (Registration Required)
- Teen Volunteer Hours | Ramara Centre | Register on Eventbrite
- Teen Subscription Bag: multiple dates | Ramara Centre | Register on Eventbrite
Children’s Programs (Registration Required)
- Touch a Truck: Tuesdays @ 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM | Ramara Centre | Register on Eventbrite
- Farming Friends: Wednesdays @ 2 PM | Ramara Centre | Register on Eventbrite
- Craft Guild: Thursdays @ 2 PM and 6 PM | Ramara Centre | Register on Eventbrite
- Makers & Builders: Fridays @ 2 PM | Ramara Centre |Drop-In
- Saturday Drop-In Crafts: Saturdays @ 10 AM - 2 PM | Ramara Centre
Highlights
Sunsets and Stories - Outdoor Book Club @ Atherley Park
Atherley Park | Wednesday, August 19 @ 7 PM - 8 PM | Register on Eventbrite
Join Rebecca outdoors this summer season to enjoy hot reads and cool shade. Bring a camping chair, snack and beverage if you choose and enjoy a social hour with other book lovers. Book: Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy
Summer Bylaw Reminders
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!
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).
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 these and other frequently requested bylaws in Ramara.
Have a by-law concern? Use our convenient online reporting tool. Visit ramara.ca/ReportIt to report your concern.
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.
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