Smooth Rock Falls council supports CochraneTel broadband fund application and sets 2026 deadline for 312 Main Street permit

Smooth Rock Falls council supported CochraneTel’s application to the CRTC Broadband Fund for the proposed Trans-Canada Northern Corridor broadband infrastructure project at its Aug. 4, 2026 regular meeting, and set a Dec. 31, 2026 deadline for the owner of 312 Main Street to submit a complete building permit application.

Council’s meeting highlights also included a deferred bylaw connected to a proposed energy price-protection agreement, approval of a funding agreement tied to an intern position, and a closed-session discussion about an offer to buy municipal property.

On the broadband item, council authorized the mayor to submit a letter of support on behalf of the town for CochraneTel’s application, according to the municipality’s meeting highlights.

Council also dealt with development obligations tied to 312 Main Street. The town said council gave the property owner a final extension until Dec. 31, 2026 to move ahead with developing the property as a separate residential lot. A complete building permit application must be submitted by that date.

If the Dec. 31, 2026 deadline is not met, town administration will report back to council regarding enforcement of the Agreement of Purchase and Sale, including the potential re-transfer of the property to the municipality, the highlights said.

Council considered By-Law No. 2026-63, which relates to a proposed agreement with Summitt Energy for electricity and natural gas price protection. Council deferred the matter and requested current market rates for comparison before making a final decision.

Council adopted By-Law No. 2026-64 to authorize a conditional contribution agreement with the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation for funding related to the town’s Community Events & Recreation Intern position.

In a closed session, council discussed an offer to purchase municipal property. Afterward, council authorized the CAO-Treasurer and the mayor to negotiate and accept an offer. Council also authorized them to sign the documents needed for the sale, as long as the sale price is consistent with council’s direction. The resolution carried, with Coun. Denise Pelletier voting against.

The next regular council meeting is scheduled for Aug. 17, 2026 at 6 p.m., according to the town’s notice.