Statement re: Lagoon City Shorewall Legal Matter

Ramara, Ont. / April 2, 2026 – The Township of Ramara is in receipt and acknowledges the Ontario Superior Court’s decision respecting the shorewall permit matter in Lagoon City. We take the concerns raised through this process, and the impact this issue has had on the residents involved, and all residents of Ramara, very seriously.

The Township would like to take this opportunity to recognize that, over a number of years, the organization has faced challenges in its handling of this matter and that past decision-making and processes have failed to meet the standards rightfully expected by our community.

The approaches taken toward these permit applications did not support a predictable or transparent experience for residents and these outcomes impacted the trust placed in our Township systems.

While many factors contributed to this history, it is the Township’s responsibility to take ownership of the impacts of this matter and take the steps required to ensure better service moving forward.

Council has focused its efforts to strengthen the organization to ensure it is better positioned to be more effective, consistent and accountable in its operations. This has included an organizational restructuring, the establishment of in-house legal expertise, and most recently, changes to external legal counsel for this matter, now WeirFoulds LLP. These actions are part of a broader effort to improve processes, strengthen accountability, and ensure decisions are aligned with legislation and best practices.

The Township has issued the shorewall permits in question and is committed to moving forward constructively by serving residents with professionalism, transparency, and integrity. Council continues to build a stronger, more effective organization, by improving governance, supporting experienced leadership, and aligning actions with a clear vision for responsible, community-focused growth.

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Media Contact
Melissa Gowanlock
Manager of Communications & Community Experience
705-484-5374 ext. 322
mgowanlock@ramara.ca