General City News

The City of Owen Sound is proceeding with the removal of high-priority hazardous trees identified in the updated municipal tree inventory. Work will begin immediately, weather permitting, and will be carried out by Mulmur Tree Services, the contractor retained to complete this program. 

The City’s most recent tree inventory identified a number of trees (approximately 288 trees) in high and very high hazard categories due to structural defects, emerald ash borer damage, or advanced decline. These trees present elevated risks to public safety and property. 

This holiday season, residents and visitors can celebrate their love of Owen Sound with a range of unique local merchandise now available through Owen Sound Tourism and the Tom Thomson Art Gallery. From cozy winter apparel to artist-inspired keepsakes, these items offer a meaningful way to share hometown pride while supporting local cultural institutions.

Please be advised that City Council will hold a Special Council meeting on Monday, December 15, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall.

The purpose of the Special Council meeting is for Council to consider a staff report respecting proposed changes to the Conservation Authorities Act, and continue the Council Working Session from the November 24, 2025 Special Council meeting on Official Plan Amendment No. 14 and Zoning By-law Amendment No. 57.

It’s never too late to shift your shopping focus to support local businesses, and Owen Sound’s River District has so many great shops and stores to do just that!  

Join River District businesses during Moonlight Madness this Friday, December 5th from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.  Stores will be open late with special offers and sales inside. The River District streets will come alive with holiday spirit, fire tables, seating, and more! Make sure you make time to take in the Holiday Artisan Market running from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Owen Sound Farmers’ Market. 

Every year on December 6, the City of Owen Sound recognizes the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.  Flags at all City facilities (excluding City Hall’s community flagpole) will be lowered to half-mast, in honour of this day of significance.

Please be advised that the Committee of Adjustment hearing scheduled for Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. has been cancelled.

A full schedule of upcoming Committee meetings can be found on the Council and Committees page of the City’s website.

Please be advised that the Corporate Services Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday, December 11, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. has been cancelled.

Starting January 1, 2026, the Government of Ontario is introducing a new producer-led recycling collection system. Under this system, residential curbside recycling will continue as usual, but certain non-residential properties, such as businesses and community organization sites that are currently receiving curbside collection services, will no longer be eligible for municipal curbside collection.

To help affected businesses manage this change, City Council has approved a temporary three-month extension of curbside recycling collection until March 31, 2026. This gives currently served properties extra time to arrange private recycling services to ensure uninterrupted service. Exploring options early will help compare service levels, pricing, and collection frequency.

Asphalt repairs are taking place this week in Harrison Park, along Mile Drive, and on the Freedom Trail. Temporary signage will be posted at affected trailheads to help guide users during this work.

Please use caution or avoid these areas temporarily.  Pedestrians are reminded not to walk on the roadway while the trail is closed or unavailable. Sections will reopen as repairs are completed.