General City News

The City of Owen Sound is pleased to announce the beginning of a new term for its dedicated public members of committees. These individuals have been appointed to serve on various City committees, including the Corporate Services, Community Services, and Operations Standing Committees, and the Tom Thomson Art Gallery Advisory Committee.  

Please be advised that the River District Board of Management (RDBM) will hold a Special RDBM meeting on Wednesday, February 4, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall.

The purpose of the Special RDBM meeting is for the RDBM to consider a deputation respecting a partnership request with the Beth Ezekiel Synagogue for the Safer and Vital Communities Grant, as well as a staff report respecting options for non-eligible recycling collection in the River District.

The City of Owen Sound announces that online registration for the 2026 camping season at Harrison Park Family Campground opens next week, beginning at 9 a.m. on Monday, February 2, 2026.

The popular campground will operate from Thursday, May 14, until Monday, October 12, 2026. All reservations must be made through the City's online booking system at OwenSound.ca/Campgrounds, with payment required at the time of booking. Sites are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. The refund policy can be viewed here. 

Due to the impact of current and forecasted weather conditions on the City’s road and sidewalk infrastructure, the City of Owen Sound has declared a Significant Weather Event that will remain in effect until further notice.

The declaration of a significant weather event is not a notice of a reduced level of service or a road closure. It is intended to notify the public that caution must be observed when travelling on city-maintained roads. Restoring the roads to optimal conditions may take longer than usual.

As winter weather continues to bring snow and fluctuating conditions, the City of Owen Sound reminds residents that snowbanks on private property are the responsibility of the property owner and are not removed by City crews.

City snow removal operations focus on maintaining safe and accessible public roadways, sidewalks, and municipal properties. Snowbanks that accumulate on driveways, lawns, or other private areas due to plowing or snowfall must be removed by residents or property owners.

Are you interested in helping to shape the decisions affecting the River District Business Improvement Area? If so, consider applying to serve as a Director on the River District Board of Management.

Volunteers are one of our most valued community resources. If you are interested in serving on the River District Board of Management, please submit an application to the Deputy Clerk. Application forms are due Friday, February 20, and are available on the City of Owen Sound’s website or at the Service Owen Sound counter in City Hall.

The Tom Thomson Art Gallery is pleased to announce the opening of its Winter 2026 exhibitions: Forecast – January to June and Harold Klunder: The Dance of Life. Both exhibitions open with a public reception on Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 pm at the Gallery.