Township of Hamilton Strengthens Local Planning and Development Services

Township of Hamilton, ON – The Township of Hamilton is undertaking several initiatives to strengthen local planning services and ensure the community remains well-positioned to meet future needs.

Over the coming months, residents will see a number of important projects underway, including the assumption of subdivision approval authority, the launch of a comprehensive Official Plan Review, the development of a Growth Management Strategy, and the addition of a new Senior Planner to the Township team.

Together, these initiatives will strengthen the Township's ability to provide responsive service, make informed decisions, and support the long-term health and sustainability of the community while preserving the qualities that residents value most.

Bringing Subdivision Approvals Closer to Home

The Township is pleased to announce that it is assuming authority for subdivision approvals, a responsibility that has historically been administered by Northumberland County.

Northumberland County has long provided valuable planning expertise and support through the subdivision approval process. As the Township continues to improve its own planning capacity, assuming this authority represents a natural next step in delivering planning services closer to the community.

This transition will allow development applications to be reviewed and processed locally, improving coordination across departments and helping ensure planning decisions are informed by local knowledge and community priorities.

Official Plan Review Underway

At its June 16 meeting, Council received a staff report outlining the commencement of a comprehensive review of the Township’s Official Plan.

An Official Plan serves as the community's long-term policy framework, helping guide decisions related to housing, agriculture, employment, infrastructure, environmental protection, transportation, parks, and community services. The review will assess existing policies, consider legislative changes and emerging trends, and ensure the Township's planning framework continues to reflect local priorities and community values.

Public input will be an important part of this process, and there will be opportunities for residents, businesses, community groups, and other stakeholders to share their thoughts as the review moves forward.

Additional information and opportunities to participate will be shared on our Official Plan Updates webpage. Residents can also subscribe for updates delivered directly to their inbox at hamiltontownship.ca/official-plan.

Welcoming a New Senior Planner

The Township is pleased to welcome Marnie Saunders to the Development Services team as Senior Planner, effective June 2026.

Marnie brings more than nine years of experience working within consulting environments, including planning, engineering, and environmental firms. Throughout her career, she has managed complex development applications across a broad range of land uses, guiding projects from initial submission through to final approval. Her appointment will also support a planned period of transition within the Planning team, allowing time for knowledge sharing and mentorship ahead of a planned retirement.

“We welcome Marnie to the Township of Hamilton,” said Brian Gilmer, Chief Administrative Officer. “She brings valuable experience and expertise that will support our planning team and help us continue delivering thoughtful, high-quality service to our community.”

Looking Ahead: Guiding Future Growth

Hamilton Township has retained Watson & Associates to prepare a comprehensive Growth Management Strategy which will look at the long-term needs for growth and development in the Township. The study is being undertaken in the context of increasing development pressures with the Township, including the potential impacts associated with the proposed OPG Wesleyville project, as well as broader regional growth dynamics occurring in neighbouring municipalities Port Hope and Cobourg.

These initiatives represent important steps in building local capacity and ensuring the Township has the tools, expertise, and policies needed to serve residents effectively.

By enhancing local planning services, updating key policy documents, and bringing additional expertise to the organization, the Township is investing in thoughtful decision-making and responsible stewardship that will benefit the community for years to come.

For more information, please visit hamiltontownship.ca or contact Development Services.

About the Township of Hamilton: Established in 1850, the Township of Hamilton is a rural Northumberland community nestled between Lake Ontario and Rice Lake, with approximately 11,000 residents. Home to six distinctive hamlets: Baltimore, Bewdley, Camborne, Cold Springs, Gore’s Landing, and Hardwood. The Township is defined by rolling hills, productive farmland, wetlands, and the Oak Ridges Moraine. The Township of Hamilton is a testament to the enduring charm of rural Ontario.

Contact: Brian Gilmer, Chief Administrative Officer
                 bgilmer@hamiltontownship.ca