August 2026 Monthly Update

Bayou Road reconstruction progressing

Work continues on the Bayou Road reconstruction project. Daytime single-lane restrictions and temporary driveway access impacts may occur as construction progresses. Access and parking at the Hedgemere Landing Boat Launch will remain very limited until the project is completed this fall. Boaters are encouraged to use the Quetton Street Boat Launch and Dock on Quetton Street in Washago. View the notice.

Junior Fire Fit Challenge

Calling all junior firefighters! Children ages five to nine are invited to take on the Junior Fire Fit Challenge at the Coldwater Fall Fair on September 26 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Participants will team up with a Severn firefighter, gear up in a bunker coat and mock air pack, and complete a fun obstacle course that builds confidence while teaching important fire safety skills. Pre-registration is required, and spaces are limited to 50 participants. Learn more and register on our Junior Fire Fit Challenge page.

Help shape a new park in Port Severn

Severn is planning a new passive park on Port Severn Road along the shoreline of Little Lake. The Public Information Centre originally scheduled for July 16 was cancelled due to air quality alerts and has been rescheduled for Thursday, August 13, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 3253 Port Severn Road. Community members are invited to drop in to review draft park concepts, ask questions, and share feedback before the design is finalized. Light refreshments will be available. Visit our Have Your Say page to learn more.

We're hiring: Join the Severn Team

Municipal Law Enforcement Officer II

We're hiring a Municipal Law Enforcement Officer II. This full-time position supports by-law compliance, public education, investigations, enforcement, canine control, property standards, parking, short-term rental licensing, and the Township’s Administrative Monetary Penalty System. View the full job posting and apply online by August 4 on our Job Postings page.

Winter control positions

Help keep Severn safe and moving this winter. We’re accepting applications for seasonal winter control positions, including Night Patroller, Roads Operator, and Parks and Facility Operator roles. These positions support road, parking lot, and facility maintenance during winter weather and play an important role in keeping our community accessible. View the full postings and apply online on our Job Postings page.

Lawn Watering By-law is in effect

Township of Severn’s Lawn Watering By-law is in effect from May 15 to November 1 to help conserve water and reduce water use, loss, and waste. During this period, even-numbered addresses may water lawns on even-numbered days and odd-numbered addresses may water lawns on odd-numbered days. Lawn watering is permitted from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Residents are encouraged to follow the by-law and use simple water conservation practices at home. View the notice.

Make sure you’re ready to vote

Severn’s Municipal Election is Monday, October 26, 2026. Eligible voters will elect the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Ward Councillors and School Board Trustee. Register or confirm your information at registertovoteon.ca and learn more at severn.ca/elections.

Now recruiting: Volunteer Firefighters

Severn Fire and Emergency Services is looking for dedicated community members to join the Severn Fire Team as Volunteer Firefighters. This rewarding role offers the opportunity to serve your community, build valuable skills, and be part of a committed team of professionals. Applications opened June 1, 2026 and must be submitted online by August 28, 2026 at 4:30 p.m. Learn more about the role, minimum qualifications, required documents, and the recruitment process on our Recruitment page.

Office closure for the Civic holiday

Prosper Severn: Supporting local business growth

Township of Severn's Prosper Severn, a Business Retention and Expansion Program, is designed to better understand the needs, challenges, and opportunities facing local businesses. Businesses are invited to participate through one-on-one interviews or an online survey, with feedback helping guide future economic development planning in Severn. The program will run until September 2026. Visit the project page.

Registration now open for fall recreation programs

Recreation programs help build a healthy, active, and connected community by giving residents opportunities to learn new skills, stay active, and spend time with neighbours. Registration is now open for Severn’s fall recreation programs, including Beady Crazy, DK Dance, Pilates, Yoga, and Tiny Fun Arts and Crafts. Visit our Recreation Programs page and create your account on UniverusRec to register online.

#RootedinSevern

The #RootedinSevern program celebrates local entrepreneurs and shares the stories of businesses that contribute to Severn’s economy and community character. This month, #RootedinSevern is highlighting Blue Moon Junction Cottage Bar & Grill, a popular roadside destination located at 9620 Highway 11 South. Known for its generous portions, home-style cooking, extensive menu, and friendly service, Blue Moon Junction welcomes residents, cottagers, and travellers alike. The restaurant has also become an important local gathering place, hosting community events, charity evenings, and local talent nights throughout the year. Visit the #RootedinSevern page.

Short-term Rental Licensing Program

A Short-term Rental Licensing By-law was brought forward for Council’s consideration at a Special Council meeting on Wednesday, June 24, and was approved. The application form, program guide, and related resources are expected to be available in late fall 2026 to support the program’s launch on January 1, 2027. Applications are also expected to open in late fall 2026, giving operators time to review the requirements and prepare their submissions before the program goes live. Learn more on our Short-term Rental page.

Summer Day Camp spaces still open for August!

Some weeks are still open for registration. Severn’s 2026 Summer Day Camp season offers full-week summer programming for children ages 4 to 11, with camps running Monday to Friday from until August 28 in Coldwater and Washago. Camp options include Adventurers in Washago for ages 4 to 11, Little Explorers in Coldwater for ages 4 to 6, and Trailblazers in Coldwater for ages 7 to 11. Visit our Day Camps page for program information and registration details.

Thinking about running for Council?

Severn’s 2026 Municipal Election is on Monday, October 26, 2026, and nominations are now open. Running for Council is an opportunity to represent your community, bring forward local ideas, and help shape decisions that affect services, infrastructure, growth, recreation, community well-being, and the future of Severn. If you care about where you live and want to make a meaningful contribution, now is the time to learn more. Visit our Elections page to review candidate resources, key election dates, the Notice of Nominations, voting information, the Voters List, and the Unofficial List of Candidates. Whether you are planning to vote or considering putting your name forward, the Elections page is your starting point for accurate, up-to-date information. Visit the Elections page. 

Attend the July 30 or August 6 information session

Strong Councils bring together people with different backgrounds, skills, experiences, and perspectives.

You do not need to have political experience to run for Council or School Board Trustee. You only need to be ready to listen, learn, and serve your community.

Attend a candidate information event to ask questions, explore the role, and learn how to become a candidate. Whether you are considering running or simply curious, you are welcome. Registration is not required, drop in anytime.

Upcoming Council and Committee meetings

Additional meeting information can be accessed on our Council Portal at https://severn.civicweb.net/Portal/.

You can also subscribe to receive email updates on one or more Council or Committee meeting. Visit the Subscribe menu on the Council Portal to learn more.