Plans for a major residential and commercial development in Carman moved forward May 21 as council received an update on the proposed Project 75 annexation and directed developers to continue the public consultation process required before the application advances to the Municipal Board.
The proposal would see approximately 75 acres annexed from the RM of Dufferin into the Town of Carman for future mixed residential and commercial development.
Future growth and infrastructure planning were key topics during the meeting, with council also directing administration to proceed with the next phase of the town’s lift station project based on current engineering recommendations. The lift station is expected to support residential growth in northwest Carman.
Council also endorsed a recommendation from Chief Administrative Officer Susan Stein and Public Works Superintendent Joe Richardson to schedule reconstruction of Second Street N.E. in the industrial park for 2027.
Community infrastructure concerns were also discussed. Council reviewed a request for an expanded pathway along the Boyne River from the former water treatment plant to the area behind One Insurance. The matter was referred to the Pathway Committee for further review and recommendations.
Administration reported that public works staff are investigating options to address drainage concerns near Third Avenue N.W.
In support of affordable housing, council agreed to waive water and sewer connection fees for a Habitat for Humanity project.
Council approved the sale of Lot 3/9, Block 5, Plan 33408, municipally known as 59 First St. S.W.
Several staffing matters were addressed during the meeting. John Steadman was appointed the Town of Carman’s municipal weed inspector for 2026, and Nicolle Phillips was hired as the town’s Fire Emergency Safety manager under Employment Agreement 1-2026.
Council also approved Stein’s attendance at the June Central District meeting, with expenses covered under the municipality’s mileage and travel policy.
A parking request from Beaukama Pneumatics was discussed, with council directing administration to explore alternative parking solutions.
Council approved April accounts totalling $694,736.55, including $504,299.39 in accounts payable and $190,437.15 in payroll and government remittances. The municipality’s April financial statements were also approved.
Councillors formally authorized Councillor Carly Boklaschuk’s absences from meetings held April 7, April 16 and May 5.
Committee reports noted that the Dufferin Agricultural Society plans to discuss the potential sale of its campground at an executive meeting on June 3 and gather additional information regarding outstanding accounts.
Council also received an appreciation letter from the Golden Prairie Arts Council thanking the town for its ongoing support, as well as invitations to annual general meetings from the Carman Wellness Committee and the Boundary Trails Health Centre Foundation.
Stein advised council that the Community Hall requires a fire suppression system test in its kitchen, with an estimated cost of $3,100.
Council further acknowledged letters of appreciation from Crime Stoppers, Ronald McDonald House and STARS, while correspondence from the Municipal Board requested additional information regarding the Project 75 annexation application.
