On Thursday, August 28, Champlain Township council unanimously approved its updated Strategic Asset Management Policy (SAMP). Ontario municipalities are required to update their policies at least once every five years.
Champlain’s first SAMP was adopted on June 20, 2019, and sets out how the township will manage its assets to support service delivery, sustainability, economic development, climate resilience, and prudent financial planning.
This type of planning must also be integrated into long-term financial planning and annual budgets. The policy helps stabilize property taxes by spreading infrastructure costs out over time rather than potential sharp increases when unexpected repairs arise.
It also emphasizes a risk-based approach to asset management, including preventing potholes from worsening, water main breaks, or unexpected facility closures. By planning for maintenance and replacement in advance, the township reduces the risk of sudden failures, which can disrupt services and drive up costs.
The report to council outlined that there were minor updates, including formatting changes and specific references to applicable legislation. A new section was also added as an accountability measure to require annual status updates to council outlining progress on asset management goals and any factors impeding implementation.
The update also strengthens Champlain Township’s approach to climate change. Staff must now identify vulnerabilities in municipal infrastructure, consider costs and solutions, pursue adaptation opportunities, and integrate climate considerations into planning and operations.
Councillors Paul Burroughs and Sarah Bigelow were absent from the meeting.
