Body: Planning Committee Type: Agenda Meeting: Regular Date: September 25, 2025 Collection: Council Agendas Municipality: Frontenac County
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Planning and Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Thursday, September 25, 2025 –10:00 a.m. Council Chamber, County of Frontenac Administration Building, 2069 Battersea Road, Glenburnie, ON https://youtube.com/live/yGVNu016Ysw?feature=share
AGENDA Page 1.
Call to Order We begin this gathering by acknowledging and celebrating these traditional lands as a gathering place of the first peoples and their ancestors who are entrusted to care for mother earth since time immemorial. We do so respecting both the land and the Indigenous People who continue to walk with us through this world. Today, the County is committed to working with Indigenous peoples and all residents to pursue a united path of reconciliation.
Adoption of the Agenda a) That the agenda for the September 25, 2025 meeting of the Planning and Economic Development Advisory Committee be adopted.
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof
Adoption of Minutes a) Minutes of Meeting held June 5, 2025
4-7
That the minutes of the Planning and Economic Development Advisory Committee meeting held June 5, 2025 be adopted. Minutes of Meeting held June 5, 2025
8 - 23
Deputations and/or Presentations
Briefings a) Mr. Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development provided the Planning Advisory Committee with the planning briefing Director of Planning and Economic Development Briefing
Page 1 of 64
Page 7. 24 - 26
Reports to the Planning Advisory Committee a) 2025-077 Planning and Economic Development Frontenac County Official Plan Update Be It Resolved That the County Council endorse the work plan to update the existing County Official Plan, which will commence in the Fall of 2025; And Further That the changes to the Plan take place through a series of amendments rather than a complete replacement of the Plan; And Further That the updates to the Plan be done so that the existing approach of the Plan be continued, including the following parameters:
- That the updates be prepared for a ‘high level’ planning document using a regional planning perspective, recognizing that detailed planning policies are in place with the four Township Official Plans;
- That the Official Plan continue to use a watershed-based approach and act as a guide for dealing with cross-boundary and cross-jurisdictional planning issues; and
- That the Official Plan be consistent with the Provincial Planning Statement (2024) while offering a solutions-oriented planning approach to deal with land use planning issues that are common in the Frontenac region. And Further That Council authorize staff to draw up to a maximum of $6,000 from the Sustainability Reserve towards the preparation of the Official Plan update for any costs related to meetings and public consultation. Frontenac County Official Plan Update
27 - 42
b)
Staff Briefing: Sonya Bolton, Manager of Community Planning, will take the Committee through the 2026-2030 Business Plan for Planning Services 2026-2030 Business Plan for Planning Services
43 - 51
c)
Staff Briefing: Richard Allen, Manager of Economic Development, will take the Committee through the 2026-2030 Business Plan for Economic Development 2026-2030 Business Plan for Economic Development
52 - 64
d)
Staff Briefing: Richard Allen, Manager of Economic Development, will take the Committee through the 2026-2030 Business Plan for the Frontenac K&P Trail 2026-2030 Business Plan for the Frontenac K&P Trail
Communications
Other Business
Page 2 of 64
Page 10.
Next Meeting a) The next meeting of the Planning and Economic Development Advisory Committee is schedule for Thursday, October 23, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at the County Administrative Building.
Adjournment
Page 3 of 64
Minutes of the Planning and Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting June 5, 2025 [Note: Minutes are not Verbatim, please refer to full video at https://youtube.com/live/_3CV3whcaME?feature=share] A meeting of the Planning and Economic Development Committee was held in the Council Chamber at the County Administrative Office, 2069 Battersea Road, Glenburnie on Thursday, June 5, 2025 and was called to order at 10:00 AM Present: Councillor Judy Greenwood-Speers, Chair Councillor Ron Vandewal, Vice Chair Councillor Fred Fowler Councillor Fran Smith Mike Hage Phil Leonard Jim McIntosh Present Virtually: Leona Fleischmann Staff Present: Jannette Amini, Manager of Legislative Services/Clerk Sonya Bolton, Manager of Community Planning Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development Richard Allen, Manager of Economic Development Debbi Miller, Community Development Officer Jenna Norman, Economic Development Student Alex Petracca, Planning Student 1.
Call to Order
We begin this gathering by acknowledging and celebrating these traditional lands as a gathering place of the first peoples and their ancestors who are entrusted to care for mother earth since time immemorial. We do so respecting both the land and the Indigenous People who continue to walk with us through this world. Today, the County is committed to working with Indigenous peoples and all residents to pursue a united path of reconciliation.
Minutes of Meeting held June 5, 2025
Page 4 of 64
2.
Adoption of the Agenda
Moved By: Seconded By:
Councillor Smith Mr. Hage
That the agenda for the June 5, 2025 meeting of the Planning and Economic Development Advisory Committee be adopted. Carried 3.
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof
There were none. 4.
Adoption of Minutes a)
Minutes of Meeting held March 27, 2025
Moved By: Seconded By:
Councillor Fowler Councillor Vandewal
That the minutes of the Planning and Economic Development Advisory Committee meeting held March 27, 2025 be adopted. Carried 5.
Deputations and/or Presentations
Briefings a)
Mr. Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development provided the Planning Advisory Committee with the planning briefing. A copy of the presentation is attached to the record in the Clerk’s Office.
To the question asked, Mr. Gallivan advised that Bill 17 will only affect new construction and not construction currently underway. To questions regarding the survey on waterfront, Mr. Gallivan confirmed that the survey itself is open to anyone but specifically asks the participant if they own waterfront property. He also confirmed that the survey will be up over the summer as staff are looking to get as many comments as possible. In terms of communal services, it was asked why an open house is not planned for Frontenac Islands, to which Mr. Gallivan noted that Frontenac Islands already has policies for Marysville built into its Official Plan so the rules are clear regarding Planning and Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes June 5, 2025
Minutes of Meeting held June 5, 2025
Page 2 of 4
Page 5 of 64
communal service. However, there needs to be broader conversations with the community which should take place when the Township updates its Official Plan. 7.
Reports to the Planning Advisory Committee a)
Consultant Briefing: Mr. Richard Allen introduced Bonnie Ruddock of Regional Tourism Organization 9 (Southeastern Ontario) and Nicole Whiting of Regional Tourism Organization 11 (Ontario’s Highlands) who provided the Committee with a briefing and presentation on Investing in Community Through Tourism and why the Municipal Accommodation Tax Matters in Rural Municipalities.
To questions on how this is enforced, Ms. Ruddock noted that the City of Kingston for example has licensing in place to enforce this so it would be the same as collecting any other type of tax or revenue from a business. To questions on if there is any evidence that this would lower tourism as well as the amount of municipal staff time required, Ms. Ruddock noted that it is a 50/50 split after any administrative costs are deducted, whether this is done by municipal staff or contracted out. Ms. Whiting noted that the 50/50 split is the minimum and some municipalities give 100% back to tourism. From a by-law perspective it varies where some are very basic, and some are very specific so it depends on the community. Mr. Allen noted that staff did an initial analysis and estimate approximately $560,000 per year but this would be the base amount. This is why staff are looking to do the feasibility work. This estimate does not include B&B’s or fishing camps so these are things staff will investigate as we will need to speak to each of the municipal partners. To questions around marketing and whether that will be Township specific or across the County, Mr. Allen noted that this will be part of the conversation. During the 2017 review, staff identified over 350 short term rentals and approximately 100 others such as B&B’s, campgrounds, cabin rental resorts, etc. Staff will look at what other municipalities do in determining what is out there and how to enforce this on nonbusiness rentals. b)
2025-051 Planning and Economic Development Municipal Accommodation Tax Feasibility
Moved By: Seconded By:
Councillor Smith Ms. Fleishman
Be It Resolved That the Planning and Economic Development Committee receives for information Report 2025-051 Planning and Economic Development Advisory Committee – Municipal Accommodation Tax Feasibility
Planning and Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes June 5, 2025
Minutes of Meeting held June 5, 2025
Page 3 of 4
Page 6 of 64
And Further That County Council direct staff to explore the feasibility of a municipal accommodation tax in Frontenac County And Further That up to $6,000 be allocated from the Community Development Reserve to assist with facilitation and engagement costs for the feasibility review. Carried 8.
Communications
Other Business
Next Meeting a)
The next meeting of the Planning and Economic Development Advisory Committee is scheduled for Thursday, July 24, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at the County Administration Building. Adjournment
Moved By: Seconded By:
Mr. Leonard Councillor Smith
That the meeting hereby adjourn at 11:09 a.m. Carried
Planning and Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes June 5, 2025
Minutes of Meeting held June 5, 2025
Page 4 of 4
Page 7 of 64
Mr. Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development provided…Page 8 of 64
Director’s Briefing Planning and Economic Development Advisory Committee September 25th, 2025
Mr. Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development provided…Page 9 of 64
Community Planning Permit System
https://engagefrontenac.ca/community-planning-permit-system
Page 10 of 64 Mr. Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development provided…
Natural Heritage Study update • First Region-Wide Study in 2012 • Completed for 2016 County Official Plan • Goal: regional protection for Frontenac’s natural environment
Page 11 of 64 Mr. Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development provided…
F RO N T E N AC ’ S N AT U R A L H E R I TAG E • Total Frontenac Area = 4,000 sq km • Total Frontenac Natural Heritage Area = 2,920 sq km • 73% of Frontenac is “Natural Heritage”
frontenacms.ca
Page 12 of 64 Mr. Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development provided…
Communal Ser vices
Page 13 of 64 Mr. Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development provided…
South Frontenac Official Plan
https://engagefrontenac.ca/official-plan-review-south-frontenac-2040
Page 14 of 64 Mr. Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development provided…
Township Planning Projects • Communal service policies for township Official Plans • Additional residential units – updates for Township Official Plans • Severance review for Central Frontenac • Update to the North Frontenac Community Improvement Plan
Page 15 of 64 Mr. Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development provided…
Business Development Business Networking At Lehlewa Lakeside Retreat In Sharbot Lake. o Date: July 22, 2025 – Morning Event o Coffee & snack provided by Cardinal Café & Belong Sharbot Lake o 44 Attendees From Across Frontenac County
Debbi continues to work Frontenac Business Services to conduct Monthly Business Visits throughout the County
Page 16 of 64 Mr. Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development provided…
• • • •
• •
Open Farms
September 5, 6 & 7 Kick Off Event - Frontenac Farmers Market The Farmers Markets hosted events through the weekend highlighting locally grown products. Sunday in the County feature event took place at the Frontenac Plowing Match in Sydenham. o The event included wagon rides with speakers explaining the plowing match, vendors, food trucks, and live music. o Over 1,000 people attended the event. Survey for participating farms and businesses is currently open for input. A full report will be brought to committee in November.
Page 17 of 64 Mr. Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development provided…
M u n i c i p a l A c c o m m o d at i o n Tax Fe a s i b i l i t y • Research and background work ongoing • Survey Open September 22 – November 16 • Open Houses: • October 29, Frontenac Islands 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM, Marysville Town Hall • October 29, South Frontenac 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM, Verona Lions Centre • October 30, North Frontenac 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM, Township Offices • October 30, Central Frontenac 5:30 – 7:00 PM, Oso Hall • Virtual Open House - Short Term Rental Hosts on November 13, 2025 Details available on Engage Frontenac: https://engagefrontenac.ca/municipal-accommodation-tax-feasibility
Page 18 of 64 Mr. Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development provided…
H e a l t h c a re • •
Implementation Plan is progressing RIO Score meeting - Township of Frontenac Islands, MPP Ted Hsu and Ontario Medical Association (OMA)
•
Through EOPRA, Debbi Miller attended a recruitment event in Montreal with Fédération des médecins résidents du Québec with EOPRA.
•
Upcoming: Local Community Working Groups • Facilitated sessions for ideas • September 29 – Virtual • October 7 - in-person, Verona
•
FLA OHT o Health Home, Working Group Sub Committee Recruitment & Retention, Lead
Page 19 of 64 Mr. Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development provided…
Frontenac County 2025 Business Retreat October 21- 10:45am – 4:00 pm at RKY Camp (Eagle Lake) Registration is open until October 15
•
Registration is required to plan for experiences and order food.
This year’s event focuses on experiences • 3 experiences for participants to choose • Collaboration with both Regional Tourism Organizations (OHTO and RTO9) • Business Supports Presentation • Panel discussions
Page 20 of 64 Mr. Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development provided…
2 0 2 5 F ro nte n a c C o u nt y B u s i n e s s A wa rd s Categories: • • • • •
Business of the Year New Business Partnership and Collaboration Innovation in Sustainability Women-Led Business
To nominate, visit: https://engagefrontenac.ca/frontenacbusiness-awards Nominations open on September 23 Awards will be presented to the recipients on Tuesday, November 18. The location of the awards event will be confirmed and announced in October.
Page 21 of 64 Mr. Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development provided…
K&P Trail Trail use has been steady throughout the summer, with a steady presence from the Frontenac ATV Club who has made several contributions: • • • • •
Events (2-3 per month) Weekend patrols (with AED) Events (Night Ride, Poker Run) Bridge deck replacements (3) Tree clearing (almost weekly)
Upcoming Projects: • Antoine Creek Bridge replacement (October 2025) • Rehabilitation from Snow Road to Wilbur (2026)
Page 22 of 64 Mr. Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development provided…
O nta r i o Ea st M u n i c i p a l C o n fe re n c e S e p te m b e r 1 7 t h - R a i l Tra i l L o o p
Page 23 of 64 Mr. Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development provided…
Questions ?
Report 2025-077 Committee Recommend Report To:
Chair and Members of the Planning and Economic Development Advisory Committee
From:
Joe Gallivan, Director, Planning & Economic Development
Date of meeting:
September 25th, 2025
Re:
Planning and Economic Development – Frontenac County Official Plan Update
Recommendation Be It Resolved That the County Council endorse the work plan to update the existing County Official Plan, which will commence in the Fall of 2025; And Further That the changes to the Plan take place through a series of amendments rather than a complete replacement of the Plan; And Further That the updates to the Plan be done so that the existing approach of the Plan be continued, including the following parameters: (1) That the updates be prepared for a ‘high level’ planning document using a regional planning perspective, recognizing that detailed planning policies are in place with the four Township Official Plans; (2) That the Official Plan continue to use a watershed-based approach and act as a guide for dealing with cross-boundary and cross-jurisdictional planning issues; and (3) That the Official Plan be consistent with the Provincial Planning Statement (2024) while offering a solutions-oriented planning approach to deal with land use planning issues that are common in the Frontenac region. And Further That Council authorize staff to draw up to a maximum of $6,000 from the Sustainability Reserve towards the preparation of the Official Plan update for any costs related to meetings and public consultation.
2025-077 Planning and Economic Development Frontenac County Official Pla…
Page 24 of 64
Comment Background and Plan Details This update will be the first significant review of the County Official Plan since it was adopted by County Council in 2014 and approved by the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing in 2016. Prior to 2014, there was no regional land use plan for Frontenac. Having a County Plan in place helps ensure that land use planning occurs in a coordinated, integrated, and comprehensive way when dealing with planning matters that cross both Township boundaries and the boundaries of adjacent Counties. Some issues, including natural heritage (wetlands, rivers, woodlands, wildlife corridors, etc.) can be more effectively handled through a County-wide approach. Another benefit of having a County Plan is that it serves to coordinate both Provincial and local planning interests, both of which must be addressed in accordance with the Planning Act and the Provincial Planning Statement. The existing County Plan takes a strategic approach which will be continued with this update. From Section 1.2 of the current Plan: “The Plan implements a strategic approach to land use planning based on a watershed planning process. This Plan sets out the general direction for planning and development in Frontenac County by defining strategic goals, broad objectives, and policies. It is not the intention of the Frontenac County Official Plan to interfere with those planning matters which are considered to be the responsibility of the local municipalities. Local municipal Official Plans complement the Frontenac County Official Plan by providing detailed strategies, policies, and land use designations for planning and development at the local level.” Finally, the updated Plan will continue to take a ‘watershed approach’. Integrating land use and watershed planning allows for the opportunity to interconnect the relationship between the development of land and the protection our water resources in a proactive manner. Watershed planning and land use planning consider the same environmental issues but from different perspectives and levels of detail. The integration of watershed and land use planning together can be achieved through a watershed management plan. Timing Should the Committee and Council endorse this project, staff can commence work this Fall. At this stage, staff are recommending three different amendments to the Plan over the next two years: Amendment #1 – This amendment will be technical and not result in any new or substantial policy changes. The expected amendments would include: Recommend Report to PEDAC Update to County Official Plan September 25, 2025
2025-077 Planning and Economic Development Frontenac County Official Pla…
Page 2 of 3
Page 25 of 64
-
Mapping changes to the Land Use Schedule (Schedule “A”) to remove some of the “settlement area” designations that are no longer part of the North Frontenac, Central Frontenac, and South Frontenac Official Plans;
Updates and improvements to the quality of the maps/figures in the current plan to improve legibility;
Update policies in the Plan to conform to the latest Provincial Planning Statement (2024); and
Revisions and updates to wording in the Plan that have no impact on land use policy but reflect changes in the County since the first Plan was adopted in 2014.
Amendment #2 – Population, Housing, and Employment Projections – The existing Official Plan uses growth projections for the County that were completed in 2014. Updated population, housing, and employment forecasts will be completed by mid-2026 and Section 3 of the Plan (Growth Management) will be updated. Amendment #3 – Natural heritage policies – This Amendment will implement new policies that are delivered as part of the Natural Heritage Study update that will commence in late 2025 and be completed in 2026. Most of the current Section 7.1 (Natural Environment) policies will be revised and new mapping will be added. Financial Implications It is recommended that Council direct staff to draw up to a maximum of $6,000 from the Sustainability Reserve towards the preparation of the Official Plan update for any costs related to meetings and public consultation. Strategic Priorities 2. Contribute to the Progress of Sustainable Economic Growth and Prosperity Throughout the County: Develop regional tools and policies to support long-term protection of lakes, rivers, and other important environmental features in Frontenac. Organizations, Departments and Individuals Consulted and/or Affected Frontenac County All Four Townships Conservation Authorities (Mississippi Valley, Rideau Valley, Quinte, Cataraqui)
Recommend Report to PEDAC Update to County Official Plan September 25, 2025
2025-077 Planning and Economic Development Frontenac County Official Pla…
Page 3 of 3
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Planning and Economic Development
Staff Briefing : Sonya Bolton, Manager of Community Planning, will take …
2026-2030 Business Plan for Planning Services
Page 27 of 64
Staff Briefing : Sonya Bolton, Manager of Community Planning, will take …
Regional/County Projects
Page 28 of 64
Planning Services Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Staff Briefing : Sonya Bolton, Manager of Community Planning, will take …
Community Planning Permit System (CPPS) • By-law template to be complete in 2025
Page 29 of 64
• 2026: administrative process and documents, staff training, and refining the by-law for at least one of the townships
Planning Services Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Staff Briefing : Sonya Bolton, Manager of Community Planning, will take …
Communal Services • Official Plan Amendments for townships (2025) • 2026 and beyond On-going support for Frontenac Municipal Services Corporation Advocacy work and presentations
Page 30 of 64 Planning Services Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Staff Briefing : Sonya Bolton, Manager of Community Planning, will take …
County Official Plan Update
Page 31 of 64
Series of key amendments: • Compliance with Provincial Planning Statement and provincial legislative changes • Internal review for private lanes and business friendly policies • Implementation of • Natural Heritage Study • Population, Housing & Employment Projections Planning Services Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Staff Briefing : Sonya Bolton, Manager of Community Planning, will take …
Archaeological Master Plan
Page 32 of 64
• Future project proposal (20272028) • Protection of archaeological resources is a provincial requirement • More information is needed about when to require detailed study
Planning Services Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Staff Briefing : Sonya Bolton, Manager of Community Planning, will take …
Township Projects • Additional residential units – amendments to Official Plans and Zoning By-Laws for North Frontenac, Central Frontenac, and Frontenac Islands (2025-2026) • Implementation of the Community Planning Permit System for all four townships (2026-2029)
Page 33 of 64 Planning Services Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Staff Briefing : Sonya Bolton, Manager of Community Planning, will take …
North Frontenac • 10-year Official Plan update (2027) • 10-year Zoning ByLaw update (20282029)
Page 34 of 64 Planning Services Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Staff Briefing : Sonya Bolton, Manager of Community Planning, will take …
Central Frontenac • Redevelopment of the former school site in Sharbot Lake (on-going)
Page 35 of 64 Planning Services Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Staff Briefing : Sonya Bolton, Manager of Community Planning, will take …
South Frontenac
Page 36 of 64
• New Official Plan (2025) • Delegation of approval for plans of subdivision and condominium (2026)
Planning Services Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Staff Briefing : Sonya Bolton, Manager of Community Planning, will take …
Frontenac Islands • Marysville – Zoning By-Law Amendment for existing village (2025-2026) • New Official Plan (to be determined)
Page 37 of 64 Planning Services Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Staff Briefing : Sonya Bolton, Manager of Community Planning, will take …
Development Approvals – County
Page 38 of 64
• Applications for plans of subdivision and condominium are relatively slow • Most recent applications have been for final approvals or extensions of draft plan approval • Future level of applications unknown, especially with communal services coming online • Delegation of approval for plans of subdivision and condominium to South Frontenac will help balance future workload
Planning Services Business Plan 2026 - 2030
(North Frontenac, Central Frontenac, and Frontenac Islands) 3000
2457
2500
Total Number of Hours
Staff Briefing : Sonya Bolton, Manager of Community Planning, will take …
Township Planning Hours
2180 1899
2000 1500
2518
1679
1572 1151
Page 39 of 64
1274
1317
2017
2018
1000 500 0 2015
2016
2019
2020
Year
Planning Services Business Plan 2026 - 2030
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
200
174
180
Number of applications
Staff Briefing : Sonya Bolton, Manager of Community Planning, will take …
Township Application Numbers
160
143
140 120 100 80
53 33
40
Page 40 of 64
0
81
65
60
20
98
89
21
13
11 2016
24
2017
2018
North Frontenac
Planning Services Business Plan 2026 - 2030
70 54
38
2020
Central Frontenac
40
38 18
12 2019
60
57 31
19
94
87
50
48 26
23
108
104
13
2021
Frontenac Islands
16
13
2022
Total
44
2023
10 2024
Staff Briefing : Sonya Bolton, Manager of Community Planning, will take …
Risk Analysis and Mitigation – Planning Level
Issue Delays to Strategic Initiatives
Advisement
• •
Staff time spent addressing and implementing changes from the province Unknown annual workload related to private planning applications submitted
Mitigation Delays to Strategic Initiatives
Page 41 of 64
• •
Continue with process efficiencies (e.g., CPPS by-law) Townships may need to retain consultants to do large-scale policy projects depending on the workload of County staff (e.g., new Official Plans and Zoning By-Laws)
Planning Services Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Staff Briefing : Sonya Bolton, Manager of Community Planning, will take …
Questions?
Page 42 of 64
Planning Services Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Staff Briefing : Richard Allen, Manager of Economic Development, will ta…
Page 43 of 64
2026 – 2030 Economic Development Business Plan Planning & Economic Development
October 2025
Staff Briefing : Richard Allen, Manager of Economic Development, will ta…
Context • Trade & Tariff Uncertainty • Inflation, Interest Rates & Recession risk • “Elbows Up” – Supporting Local • Shifts in Tourism • Capacity increase
Page 44 of 64 Economic Development Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Staff Briefing : Richard Allen, Manager of Economic Development, will ta…
The Charter for Economic Development • Developed over two years including consultation with local business community • Approved by County Council at its regular meeting on July 17, 2024. • Guides Economic Development Business Planning
Tourism Food & Beverage Economic Infrastructure
Page 45 of 64
Housing
Economic Development Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Staff Briefing : Richard Allen, Manager of Economic Development, will ta…
Tourism • Implement Destination Development Plan • Increase consumer marketing efforts • Regional Tourism Partnerships • County Website transition
Page 46 of 64
Looking ahead: Outcomes from the Municipal Accommodation Tax feasibility will influence this work.
Economic Development Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Staff Briefing : Richard Allen, Manager of Economic Development, will ta…
Food & Beverage • Strengthen Farm to Table Opportunities • Leverage Food & Beverage Frontenac Website • Partner with Culinary Tourism Alliance
Page 47 of 64 Economic Development Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Staff Briefing : Richard Allen, Manager of Economic Development, will ta…
Economic Infrastructure • Business Development
Visits Networking Requests for support
• Business Retreat • Business Awards • Healthcare in our Community
Page 48 of 64 Economic Development Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Staff Briefing : Richard Allen, Manager of Economic Development, will ta…
Housing • Collaboration with Developers • Housing in Frontenac Event • Co-Marketing efforts with Frontenac Municipal Services
Page 49 of 64
Looking Ahead: The evolution of Frontenac Municipal Services will influence density and capacity of housing and commercial developments
Economic Development Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Staff Briefing : Richard Allen, Manager of Economic Development, will ta…
Administration •
G r a nt w r i t i n g & r e p or t i ng •
•
P a r t i c i p ati n g i n To w n s h i p & p a r t ne r c o m m i t te es • •
Page 50 of 64 Economic Development Business Plan 2026 - 2030
$ 2 1 0 , 0 0 0 i n g r a n t s a wa r d e d in 2024
North Frontenac Economic D e v e l o p m e n t Ta s k F o r c e Central Frontenac Economic Development Committee
Staff Briefing : Richard Allen, Manager of Economic Development, will ta…
Questions?
Page 51 of 64
Economic Development Business Plan 2026 - 2030
2026 – 2030 Business Plan Staff Briefing : Richard Allen, Manager of Economic Development, will ta…
Page 52 of 64
Frontenac K&P Trail
Staff Briefing : Richard Allen, Manager of Economic Development, will ta…
Current State • • • • • •
Page 53 of 64
•
78 km operating from Orser Road to Snow Road Station 63 km available for motorized use during the summer months 2025 was the first-year permits were required for summer motorized use. Estimated 191,578 visits to the trail in 2024 Equal split between cycling, hiking, motorized as well as other uses such as horseback riding, cross-country skiing. Staffing: Manager of Economic Development and 1 contract Project Manager for capital projects. Operating Budget: $180,000/year • •
Includes Marketing and Promotion $30,000 contributed by partners organizations in 2025
Frontenac K&P Trail Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Staff Briefing : Richard Allen, Manager of Economic Development, will ta…
Accomplishments • • •
2025 User survey completed with 311 responses Acquisition of Trail Corridor in North Frontenac is substantially complete. Eastern Ontario Rail Trail Loop Partnership growth New Brand Roadmap to 2030
• •
Page 54 of 64 Frontenac K&P Trail Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Over 20 events on the K&P Trail in 2025 (primarily organized by Frontenac ATV Club) Successful implementation of permit requirement for ATV’s & Side by Side vehicles.
Staff Briefing : Richard Allen, Manager of Economic Development, will ta…
Capital Development • • •
Page 55 of 64 Frontenac K&P Trail Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Emergency Replacement of the Antoine Creek Trail Bridge to be completed in October. Additional bridge replacements may be required in 2026 Trail upgrades are planned for Snow Road Station to Wilbur in 2026.
Staff Briefing : Richard Allen, Manager of Economic Development, will ta…
Eastern Ontario Rail Trail Loop This project has vision of establishing the “loop” as a signature trail experience in eastern Ontario, ready to be promoted internationally by 2030. In 2026, Partners will focus on engagement with businesses and communities along the loop route. The planned work in North Frontenac will help relieve a key gap identified in the assessment.
Page 56 of 64
Partners: • Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization • County of Renfrew • County of Lanark • Town of Smiths Falls • Township of Rideau Lakes • Cataraqui Conservation
Frontenac K&P Trail Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Staff Briefing : Richard Allen, Manager of Economic Development, will ta…
Selected 2025 Events May 11: ATV Club Ride to Wheeler’s June 14: Back Road ATV Poker Run July 12: ATV Ride to Calabogie July 21: Kick & Push Century Ride August 23: Light Up the Night ATV Ride Picadilly to Sharbot Lake September 14: ATV Club Ride to Calabogie
Page 57 of 64 Frontenac K&P Trail Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Staff Briefing : Richard Allen, Manager of Economic Development, will ta…
2025 Trail User Survey • • • • •
June 16 – July 24, 2025 311 Responses Responses dominated by cyclists and pedestrians Most use the trail 2–3 times per month Usually 0–40 km round trip
Page 58 of 64
Feedback Highlights: • Desire for increased amenities • Requests for improved signage : maps, distances, business info, etiquette. • Trail maintenance highly praised, but with some requests for pothole repair, erosion control, vegetation trimming. • About half of survey respondents stop at local businesses; value welcoming, bike/pet-friendly services.
Frontenac K&P Trail Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Staff Briefing : Richard Allen, Manager of Economic Development, will ta…
Implications for Business Planning 2026-2030
- Consider Investment in trail-adjacent amenities ( water refill stations, public washrooms, shaded seating).
- Enhance signage & wayfinding to capture more off-trail business traffic.
- Develop Trail-Friendly Business Standards/Toolkit (bike racks, pet-friendly, inclusive service)
- Attract more Trail-side businesses (food trucks, cafes, restaurants, convenience stores)
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- Strengthen business partnerships and Trail Town efforts (expanded trail sign program, collaborative marketing)
Frontenac K&P Trail Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Staff Briefing : Richard Allen, Manager of Economic Development, will ta…
Planned Trail Economy Projects • •
Trail Etiquette Initiative Rail Trail Loop • • •
•
Trail Towns Engagements Branding and Marketing Campaigns Governance and Policy alignment
Policies • •
Adjacent Land Uses Management Plan Update
Page 60 of 64 Frontenac K&P Trail Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Staff Briefing : Richard Allen, Manager of Economic Development, will ta…
Planned Capital Projects 2026-2030
Page 61 of 64 Frontenac K&P Trail Business Plan 2026 - 2030
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Rehabilitation of K&P Trail from Snow Road Station to County Boundary (Estimated $500,000)
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Bridge repairs identified for completion in the short term by 2024 OSIM inspections: Hardwood Creek in Verona Fish Creek in Tichborne Black Creek in Mississippi Station Bolton Creek at Clarendon Station Cranberry Creek at Snow Road Station (Estimated $1,500,000)
Staff Briefing : Richard Allen, Manager of Economic Development, will ta…
Risk: Lack of Capital Resources Level
Issue
Risk
Lack of Capital Resources
Mitigation
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• • •
Focus remaining trail development funds on completing the trail connection to Lanark County (however, the current CCBF reserve does not have enough funds to complete this work) Seek strategic partnerships on bridge projects Consider allocating other funding available to the County or creating new funding mechanisms to support Trails.
Frontenac K&P Trail Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Staff Briefing : Richard Allen, Manager of Economic Development, will ta…
Caution: Liability Level
Issue
Caution
Liability
Mitigation
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• • • •
Adhere to the policies and procedures set out in the K&P Trail Management Plan and update as necessary. Sign language must indicate “recreational trail” and “use at own risk” Clear parameters must be set about appropriate uses and behaviours, and these must be posted at trail entrances. Develop a training program and volunteer program to ensure partners and volunteers are aware of their responsibilities and how to fulfill them.
Frontenac K&P Trail Business Plan 2026 - 2030
Staff Briefing : Richard Allen, Manager of Economic Development, will ta…
Questions? Page 64 of 64
Frontenac K&P Trail Business Plan 2026 - 2030
