Township of Lucan Biddulph Council Meeting Highlights – March 3, 2026
Delegations & Presentations
Bluewater Recycling Association (BRA)
Michelle Courtney, President & CEO, presented on the transition of the Blue Box program to full producer responsibility and the impacts on Industrial, Commercial and Institutional (ICI) recycling. Council reviewed options to address increasing costs, with BRA recommending a model where municipalities adjust fees to partially or fully recover collection costs. Discussion also included future opportunities for organic waste collection, landfill capacity concerns, and potential partnerships with Try-Recycling.
Middlesex OPP – Annual Report
Interim Detachment Commander David Barnabi presented the 2025 annual report for Lucan Biddulph. While enforcement efforts were strong overall, increases were noted in fraud, traffic-related charges, and mental health calls. Priorities for 2026 include enhanced traffic enforcement and increased education and outreach in local schools.
Consent Agenda & Correspondence
Council received several items for information, including:
- Middlesex-London Paramedic Service updates, including renovations to the George Street location in Lucan
- MLHU Strategic Plan (2026–2030) and Board of Health summary
- ROMA Conference highlights
- Lake Huron Primary Water Supply System annual report
Council also received correspondence from several municipalities on topics including affordable housing, municipal policing budgets, and agricultural protection legislation.
Staff Reports
Corporate Services
- Council adopted an updated Use of Corporate Resources for Election Purposes Policy, replacing the 2018 version to reflect current legislation and practices.
- An updated Tidy Yard By-law was presented, with improved clarity and increased fines aligned with neighbouring municipalities. A final version will be brought forward for adoption at the next meeting.
Building & By-law Enforcement
- The 2025 Year-End By-law Enforcement Report noted an increase in complaints, particularly related to property standards.
- The 2025 Building Division Report showed a decline in new home construction numbers, but overall construction value remained stable due to major projects such as the new school on Saintsbury Line. Growth is anticipated in 2026 with the Timber Ridge subdivision.
Finance
- Council received the annual Council Remuneration Report as required prior to March 31.
Public Works
- A Rural Roads Safety Audit identified key hazards and priority areas, with improvements planned beginning on Roman Line.
- Council awarded the Lucan Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion tender to Beaudoin Canada in the amount of $21.56 million. The project is currently 73% funded, with a financing strategy to be brought forward for the remaining balance.
Parks & Recreation
- Council approved moving forward with a Request for Proposals (RFP) for concession services at the Lucan Biddulph Community Memorial Centre, with a new agreement anticipated for July 2026.
- A two-year extension to the Fitness Centre Management Agreement was approved, including a phased fee adjustment.
By-laws Passed
Council adopted several by-laws, including:
- Execution of a funding agreement under the HEWSF Intake 2 program
- Adoption of the 2026 municipal budget and tax rates
- A general confirmatory by-law
Other Updates
Council members shared updates from local and regional meetings, including discussions on agricultural labour shortages and ongoing interest in industrial land development within the Township.