On Thursday, January 29, an open house was held at the Robert Hartley Sports Complex in Hawkesbury to allow residents to share their perspectives on the draft Official Plan. The 2046 Official Plan will guide the municipality’s growth and development, land use planning, determine where Hawkesbury should develop new housing and neighbourhoods, and the development of new transportation services and infrastructure.
Approximately 40 individuals participated in the event over the course of the evening, with Hawkesbury Mayor Robert Lefebvre noting the event was a success, citing strong attendance and active engagement in the planning process.
Councillor Jeanne Charlebois said it was encouraging to see residents participate in the open house, noting that public discourse can help the municipality develop a more resident-centred Official Plan.
Some residents expressed concerns and sought clarification regarding the servicing requirements associated with the new land-use designations, and how these changes may affect their individual properties. Others were supportive of the materials presented, saying that the newly formed gateway mixed-use areas will open up investment surrounding Hawkesbury’s downtown core.
Residents engaged with both municipal staff and consultants to ensure their voices were heard throughout the planning process.
“Over the next few weeks, all comments will be reviewed and may result in refinements to the final draft Official Plan before its presentation to the council in March 2026,” Lefebvre said.
“We anticipate that the Official Plan will be approved by late spring 2026, after which, it will be submitted to the United Counties of Prescott-Russell (UCPR) for review and final approval.”
