By Adam Frisk Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Highlands East rescinded its recent approval of a proposed conservation plan for the Dillman Trail during its final meeting of council for the term.
The sudden move happened during the Oct. 13 regular meeting of council, just five weeks after approving the conservation roadmap. It will now be up to the incoming council to determine how to address provincial requirements for protecting Blanding’s turtle habitat.
The outgoing council voted to rescind resolution 2026335 that was approved on Sept. 8. That resolution had endorsed a species conservation strategy that was prepared by environmental consultants Cambium Inc. to close a longstanding conflict with provincial regulators over Blanding’s turtle habitat.
The proposal was intended to address the requirements that have kept the trail closed since 2023. The plan’s initial cost was pegged at about $80,000 to $120,000.
Coun. Angela Lewis called for council to reconsider its earlier decision, arguing that further community consultation could lead to a less expensive approach. She also cited Sections 27 and 33 of the Ontario Heritage Act in raising concerns about physical alterations to the historic trail.
“I believe that through more consultation we can have a more appropriate… cheaper method under that plan,” Lewis told council. “
Outgoing mayor Dave Burton thanked environmental advocates for bringing their concerns forward and “for taking part in this and bringing a few issues to our attention.”
Municipal clerk Robyn Rogers explained to council the procedure for reconsidering the earlier decision under Section 23.14 of the township’s procedural bylaw. The rules required the motion to be introduced by a councillor who had voted in favour of the original resolution. But, because Burton had not voted on the September resolution, he could not introduce the new motion.
“I understand through our bylaw that I can’t speak to this in any which way at this time,” Burton said before giving way to Lewis.
Cambium’s proposed plan included culverts to provide wildlife passages and fencing to keep turtles off the trail. The group presented the plan to council in September as a way to address the provincial requirements and move the municipality closer to reopening the trail.
Coun. Cam McKenzie seconded Lewis’ motion to reconsider. Council then voted to rescind the earlier resolution, leaving the next council to determine how to proceed with the trail and the province’s conservation requirements.
“I believe the new council coming in will certainly make the right decisions and certainly work with the group,” Burton said before the final vote.
