October 2026 Ramara Bulletin

Important Dates and Opportunities

Stay up to date on important dates, upcoming events and opportunities to get involved in the Ramara community. Explore the updates below for details.

  • Wednesday, October 21: Ramara Trails Committee 
  • Tuesday, November 10: Committee of Adjustment
  • Monday, November 23: 2026-2030 Council Inaugural Meeting

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.

Voting is open for Ramara’s 2026 Municipal and School Board Election until Monday, October 26, 2026, at 8 p.m. There are several convenient ways for eligible electors to cast their ballot.

Online and Telephone Voting

Online and telephone voting are available 24 hours a day until Monday, October 26 at 8 p.m. Eligible electors can vote from anywhere using a computer, tablet, mobile device or telephone by following the instructions in their Voter Information Letter.

Vote In Person at our Voter Assistance Centre

The Township's Voter Assistance Centre is available at the Ramara Administration Building (2297 Highway 12) throughout the voting period. Tablets are available, and Township staff can assist eligible electors with voting online.

The Voter Assistance Centre is open 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday and on Voting Day, Monday, October 26, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Make your vote count! For complete election information, including certified candidates, voter eligibility and voting options, visit ramara.ca/election.

November is a significant month of remembrance as we come together to honour those who have served and continue to serve in the Canadian Armed Forces. Every year, Canadians observe Veterans’ Week from November 5 to 11, which includes Indigenous Veterans Day on November 8 and Remembrance Day (November 11).

A reminder that the Township Administration Building will be closed on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, to observe Remembrance Day, reopening on Thursday, November 12, 2026.

Let us come together as a community to honour those who have served, ensuring their sacrifices are never forgotten. Lest we forget.

Learn more about Veterans' Week.

We’re hiring! Available positions include:

  • Recreation & Community Services Supervisor
  • Director of Financial Services/Treasurer
  • Winter Patrol (Five-Month Contract)

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

Ramara Fire & Rescue Service is now accepting applications for volunteer firefighters.

Join a dedicated team, receive professional firefighting training, develop valuable emergency response and teamwork skills, and make a difference in the community you call home.

Applications close October 31, 2026. Learn more and apply at: www.ramara.ca/vff.

Township News and Information

Catch up on the latest news, projects and initiatives happening across the Township of Ramara. Click on the topics below to learn more.

The Township of Ramara is undertaking a Community Improvement Plan Strategy Project to explore how Community Improvement Planning tools could be used to encourage investment, support local businesses, strengthen tourism, improve properties, and enhance the communities that make Ramara a great place to live, work, and visit.

Have Your Say/Get Involved

There are several opportunities to participate, including:

Community Survey
Residents, property owners and other community members are also invited to complete the Community Survey and share their perspectives on economic development, investment and opportunities to strengthen Ramara’s communities.

Business Survey 
Local business owners and operators are encouraged to complete a short Business Survey. The survey will help the project team better understand the opportunities and challenges facing businesses in Ramara, as well as the types of supports and incentives that could help businesses grow and invest in the community.

Both surveys are available online until November 13, 2026.

Public Open House - November 5, 2026

Residents are encouraged to drop in to a Public Open House at the Ramara Centre, 5548 Highway 12, Atherley, on Thursday, November 5, 2026, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. to meet the project team, learn about Community Improvement Plans and about the CIP Strategy project, ask questions and share their ideas.

Business Engagement Sessions - November 5 & 6, 2026

The Township and Vitality Planning will host a series of focused business engagement sessions on November 5 and 6, 2026, at the Ramara Centre. These sessions will provide an opportunity for local businesses to share their experiences, identify barriers and opportunities, and discuss potential tools and incentives that could form part of a future Community Improvement Plan.

Businesses are encouraged to register using the links below for the following engagement sessions:

Small businesses - November 5, 2026, from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Ramara Centre

Home-based businesses - November 5, 2026, 1 to 3 p.m. at the Ramara Centre

Agri-business, rural businesses and agri-tourism businesses - November 6, 2026, from 7 to 9 a.m. at the Ramara Centre (light breakfast will be served)

Feedback will help inform the development of a draft CIP Strategy for further consultation before being presented to Council in 2027.

To complete a survey, register for a business session or learn more, visit ramara.ca/CIP.

What should it look and feel like when you arrive in Ramara or travel between our communities? The Township is inviting residents, businesses and visitors to provide feedback on three design concepts developed as part of its Wayfinding and Signage Strategy.

The concepts explore different ways to reflect Ramara's character and create a consistent, welcoming and recognizable experience throughout the Township.

Three design concepts are being considered:

  • Simcoe Sunrise – Inspired by sunshine and blue waters.

  • Go With the Flow – Inspired by Ramara's waterfront and recreational lifestyle.

  • Feels Like Home – Inspired by the rural and residential nature of Ramara.

Visit ramara.ca/HaveYourSay to view the three concepts and complete the online survey. Hard copies are also available at the Ramara Centre and Township Administration Building.

The survey is open until November 1, 2026.

Community feedback will help guide the preferred design direction and the development of the final Wayfinding and Signage Strategy for Council's consideration in 2027.

The Township of Ramara advises residents that the public drinking water supply located at 3290 County Road 47 will be unavailable beginning December 1, 2026, for the winter season. The service is expected to resume in spring 2027.

The seasonal closure is necessary due to recurring operational challenges during the winter months, including freezing, water leaks and electrical issues. 

Residents who regularly use this water supply are encouraged to make alternative arrangements during the closure.

The Township appreciates residents' understanding and cooperation. For questions, please contact 705-484-5374 or email infrastructure@ramara.ca.

Repairs to the Municipal Dock located on Dock Road are now underway. 

The Township's contractor, Kropf Industrial Inc., has commenced construction activities. During the construction period, the dock and surrounding work area will be closed to the public to ensure the safety of residents, visitors, and construction personnel.

We ask the public to respect all signage, barriers, and safety measures that will be in place throughout the project.

The Township appreciates the community's patience and understanding as these important repairs are completed.

To learn more about the project, please view the full construction notice. 

Rehabilitation work on Bridge 18 (Island Crescent) and Bridge 19 (East River Road) is now underway. 

The contractor has mobilized with the majority of construction anticipated to be completed by mid-November 2026, subject to weather and site conditions.

To allow the work to be completed safely, daytime bridge closures are now in effect between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Bridge 18 (Island Crescent)

  • Closed from October 14 to October 26, 2026

Bridge 19 (East River Road)

  • Closed on October 14, 2026
  • Closed from October 23 to November 4, 2026

Temporary parking is available along East River Road and Ash Crescent to assist residents. Pedestrian access across both bridges is being maintained at all times, with assistance provided to ensure safe passage. Residents should allow up to 20 minutes for pedestrian crossings when work is underway.

The Township has coordinated with school transportation providers, as well as waste and recycling collection contractors, to minimize service disruptions throughout construction. Emergency and medical service vehicles will be provided immediate access at all times.

Both structures were identified for rehabilitation through the Township's Ontario Structure Inspection Manual (OSIM) bridge inspection program, which identified deficiencies requiring repair to maintain safe operation and extend the service life of the bridges.

Project updates and additional information will continue to be posted on the Township website at: www.ramara.ca/livinghere/roads/bridge-work/

The Township appreciates residents patience and cooperation as this important infrastructure work is completed to maintain the safety and longevity of these structures.

If you have questions please email infrastructure@ramara.ca or call 705-484-5374 Ext. 232.

Recreation Update

There’s always something happening with Ramara Recreation! Explore upcoming programs, activities and recreation updates for residents of all ages.

We've been enjoying a wonderful fall season at the Ramara Centre, but there is still time to join fall programming before we head into winter! 

As we enjoy the rest of fall, Recreation staff are busy working away on planning our winter programming. The Winter Recreation Guide will be released in early November with your favorite programs returning and some new programming for all ages! 

We are also excited to bring back March Break programming. The Township will be offering full week registration as well as single days! 

Visit ramara.ca/recreation for information on recreation opportunities in Ramara. 

 

Fire Safety Tips

Ramara Fire & Rescue Services is here to help you and your family stay safe. Check out this month’s fire safety reminders, seasonal tips and important information.

In an emergency, every second counts! The Township of Ramara reminds property owners to keep their green 911 municipal address blades clearly visible so emergency responders can quickly locate their property.

Property owners should regularly check that their address blades are:

  • Clearly visible: Numbers can be easily read from both directions along the roadway.
  • Free from obstructions: Trees, shrubs and vegetation are trimmed back.
  • In good condition: Signs are securely mounted, legible and free from damage or fading.

Need a new or replacement green blade?

Property owners requiring a new 911 municipal address for a vacant property, or a replacement blade due to damage or theft, can submit a 911 Municipal Addressing Application through the Township. Applicable fees will be provided following submission, and applicants will be notified when their blade is ready for pickup at the Township Administration Building.

Visit the 911 Municipal Addressing page for more information.

On September 28, Ramara Fire & Rescue Services joined the Office of the Ontario Fire Marshal in recognizing Test Your Smoke Alarm Day through the Saved by the Beep campaign.

Students at four local elementary schools participated in fire safety education, bringing home smoke alarm safety checklists and encouraging their families to test their alarms. Students also had the opportunity to add their handprints to their school's "Pledge of Fame" banner, showing their commitment to home fire safety.

Each school also participated in a prize draw for a Beepa smoke alarm stuffy and a personal fire station tour!

Fire Prevention Week took place October 4–10, with this year's theme, "Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower."

Ramara Fire & Rescue Services celebrated with open houses at Stations 1 and 2, offering families an opportunity to meet firefighters, explore fire trucks and participate in hands-on fire safety activities.

This year's campaign focused on lithium-ion battery safety. Remember these important charging tips:

  • Always use the manufacturer-approved charger.
  • Charge devices on hard, stable surfaces, away from combustible materials.
  • Never charge devices on beds or couches, or where they block exits.
  • Stop using batteries that are damaged, unusually hot, swollen or producing strange smells or sounds.

As families head out trick-or-treating, choose bright costumes or add reflective tape, carry a flashlight and cross streets at designated crossings. Drivers should slow down and watch carefully for children. At home, use battery-operated candles instead of open flames in pumpkins and decorations.

Have a safe and happy Halloween!

November 1–7 is Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week in Ontario!

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odourless and potentially deadly gas. As heating season begins, it's especially important to ensure fuel-burning appliances are properly maintained and that working CO alarms are installed in your home as required.

Keep an eye on Ramara Fire & Rescue Services' social media channels for important carbon monoxide safety reminders throughout the week.

Library Information, Events and Highlights

There’s lots happening at the Ramara Township Public Library! Discover upcoming programs, special events, activities and other highlights from your local library.

Celebrate Ontario Public Library Week (October 18-24) by getting “Loud for Libraries”! Drop by either branch and borrow materials, sign up for a new card and hang out and use resources for a chance to win! Be loud and proud about supporting the Ramara Library.

Did you know that the library has been open at the Ramara Centre for 25 years! Celebrate with us at our Anniversary Party on October 22. We have planned special entertainment and storytimes for families, activities and crafts for adults, and lots of cake! Join in the fun between 4 to 7 p.m. 

RSVP on Eventbrite

The library will be closed on Wednesday, November 11 for Remembrance Day. Interested in accessing Library and Archives Canada World War 1 records or learning about your family history? Start your search at the library! The Ramara Library has Ancestry Library Edition, FamilySearch, and more! Visit the Ramara Centre or Brechin Branch to get started.

  • Ramara Book Club: Wednesday, October 28 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. | Ramara Centre | Register on Eventbrite
  • SINGO - Halloween Haunts: Friday, October 30 from 6 to 7 p.m. | Ramara Centre | Register on Eventbrite
  • Bone Health 101 with Osteoporosis Canada : Thursday, November 5 from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. | Virtual or at the Ramara Centre | Register on Eventbrite
  • Slow Cooker Club: Thursday, November 12 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. | $20 | Brechin Legion | Register on Eventbrite
  • Puzzle Competition: Tuesday, December 1 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. | Udney Community Centre | Register on Eventbrite

Ramara Centre | Wednesday, November 4 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. | $20 | RSVP on Eventbrite

Join us for a fun, playful introduction to improv where people of all generations can laugh, connect, and create together. Led by Mike Davidson, an improv teacher with over 20 years of experience, the workshop uses simple games and activities to build creativity and spontaneity. No experience necessary — just come ready to play and have fun!

Udney Community Center | Thursday, October 29 @ 6:30 p.m. | RSVP on Eventbrite

Families are invited to a night of fun! Each family will receive a pumpkin and all the supplies needed to carve it into something sweet or spooky. There will also be trick-or-treating, crafts, games and more. This is event is sponsored by the Friends of the Ramara Public Library and is free for families!

Ramara Centre | Friday, November 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. | RSVP on Eventbrite 

Children ages 5-12 are invited to join Ramara Library and Recreation for a day of fun! Build a rollercoaster with Scientists in Schools, create a marble run, enjoy a pizza lunch, and more! Cost is $10.

 

Ramara Centre - 5482 Highway 12
Tuesday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Wednesday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Thursday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Friday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Temporary Brechin Location - 2297 Highway 12
Thursday 1-6 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Stay Connected & Informed

There are many ways to stay informed, connect with the Township and have your say on what’s happening in Ramara. Explore the options below to find information, receive updates, report a concern or share your feedback.

Looking for something happening in Ramara? Check out our Community Calendar for upcoming Council and Committee meetings, recreation and library programs, community events and other activities taking place across 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.

Your feedback helps inform Township projects, plans and initiatives. Visit the Have Your Say page to explore current engagement opportunities, complete surveys, share your ideas and learn how you can get involved.

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:

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. 

Learn How to Report a Concern

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

Stay connected with the Township of Ramara on social media for the latest news, updates, events, programs and important information. Follow along to stay up to date on what’s happening in your community.

Facebook – @Ramaratwp
Instagram – @Ramaratwp
X – @Ramaratwp
YouTube – Township of Ramara
LinkedIn – Township of Ramara

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