Council Meeting Recap – December 8, 2025

River Institute Provides Update

On December 8, Council listened to the River Institute Annual Update, presented by executive director Dr. Jeff Ridal, and program lead/research scientist Matt Windle. Ridal noted that one of the most exciting occurrences for the year was the expansion of the facility itself, an environmental DNA laboratory that supports a core theme of the research done in Cornwall.

The Institute had a $2.4 million budget for 2024, maintaining its post-pandemic growth level. Core activities at the Institute are environmental research focusing on the St. Lawrence River, educational programs for students and community outreach.

2025 Asset Management Plan Presented

Council received the City’s 2025 Asset Management Plan, presented by Jenn Gross and William Alimena, of GEI Consultants Canada. The plan – updated every five years – meets the latest provincial requirements and covers the diverse portfolio of city assets, such as roads, water, public facilities, housing and parks, with a total value of $3.78 billion. The consultants explained that asset management strives to find an acceptable balance between providing levels of services that reduce risk, and the cost in taxes of doing so.

Later in the meeting, Council approved the related Strategic Asset Management Policy, that is also required to be updated every five years.

New Play Structures, New Park Coming

The City has budgeted $250,000 to develop Parkwood Estates Park north of Riverdale, and $75,000 per new play structures at Gallinger Park in the west end at King George Park in the city centre. The RFP will be awarded on Jan. 30, and the play structures will be installed in the spring. The City’s Recreation Master Plan recommends replacement of the play structures at two parks each year.

Child Care/Early Years Service Plan

Council supported the Child Care and Early Years’ Service System Plan for 2026-2030. A plan is considered vital for continued growth of quality child care programs and services, supporting Cornwall in having strong community connections and positioning itself as a top destination for families and employers. The 2026-2030 plan builds upon the previous plan and provides an outline of the programs and services that are either delivered by or managed by the Children’s Services Division.

The next Regular Meeting of Council will be held on Monday, January 12 at 7 p.m.