Frequently Asked Questions

 Current Closure

On the advice of the Township’s legal counsel, the Millbrook arena was closed to all members of the public on the morning of Friday, October 18^th.  This direction was the result of our legal firm’s review of the results from the September 2024 air quality testing in the facility which was being conducted annually to build on the Designated Substance Survey conducted in April 2023 (see link - Designated Substance Report).

Despite the presence of mould being identified in previous facility reviews, the results of air quality testing conducted by Cambium Inc. and EMC Scientific Incorporated Laboratory Analysis in 2023 did not indicate significant risk in the air quality at that time.

However, when the sampling was carried out again in 2024, the results indicated a significant and concerning increase in the mould levels.  In consultation with a specialist in environmental law, it was recommended that the facility be closed to the public at once until more comprehensive testing and analysis could be carried out.

December 16th, 2024 Report to Council: Mould Assessment Results and Required Remediation at Millbrook Arena 

 Building Condition

The Millbrook arena has had several engineering and structural reviews over the last 10 years.  In 2019, there were a series of investigations into the condition of the various elements of the facility (see links #9, #10 and #11).

In 2014 there was an Arena Needs Assessment Report presented to Council.   Despite the facility being classified as “very deficient” and requiring between $400,000 to $1,000,000 of improvements to keep the facility in working order for the next 5-10 years (see link 2014 Arena Needs Feasibility Study) there was no significant structural repairs or investment made into the facility.

All of the previous assessments and reports were provided to the Rethink Group in 2022 when the company began their work on the Vision 2035 – Strategic Plan for Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan update. 

In Phase 1 of the Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan update, Barry Bryan Associates was hired to update their previous reviews of the facility in the summer of 2022.   In this comprehensive structural review, an estimate and breakdown of the recommended construction and costs to address the current structural deficiencies to allow the continued use of the Millbrook arena was estimated at $5.2 million dollars (see link Dec 18 2023 Agenda).

These estimates were to address only the structural deficiencies and did not include any costs of improving the exterior of the building, or replacing the field turf in the facility (estimated at $150-350K), or any consideration of the cost(s) related to addressing the hazardous materials and substances that have been identified in the facility, including asbestos, mold and lead paint among others

Interim Temporary Use of Building:

At the April 1, 2019 Regular Council meeting the following motion was passed:

That Council direct staff to investigate possible uses for the existing Millbrook arena, in its current state, to generate revenue until the future of the facility is determined. (see report 9.4 from link April 1, 2019 Council Agenda)

From that motion, staff connected with a nearby lacrosse team that was interested in selling their used turf field if it could be installed in a facility where they could utilize it for games and practices and allow other user groups to use it at other times.

At the November 4, 2019 Regular Council Meeting (see link Council Agenda Nov 4, 2019) Council passed a motion that approved the conversion of the existing Millbrook arena to a non-ice recreational facility for the short term.    

The in-door turf usage of the facility has always been communicated to the community and user groups as being a temporary, short-term use, while the plans for the park site were being carried out.

Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan Update

In March of 2022, the Township hired the Rethink Group to begin work on consultation for the Vision 2035 – Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan to chart the future of recreation in the Township and update the previous 2011 Parks and Recreation Master Plan.  The process included a review of the existing parkland and recreation amenities in the Township, including the Millbrook arena, and to provide recommendations on the future needs of parks and recreation in the Township. 

The work on the Vision 2035 - Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan was the focus on the first 2 phases of the consultant’s work. 

 Phase 1 – Background Study and Public Consultation

Phase 1 included a review of the Townships existing Parks and Recreation Plan and a full review of our existing parks and recreation amenities.  Once that was complete, the Rethink Group created the content of the household survey and began the household survey and engagement with user groups and committees, as well as an in-person community forum on May 10, 2023. 

The public consultation for Phase 1 included a public survey open to all residents in the community that was planned to be open for 4 weeks, but was extended by a few additional weeks (June – August 2023). There was also a user group specific survey that was shared to 29 user groups in the community, 25 of which provide responses.  The consultant also had several meetings with different user groups to generate additional feedback, and engaged several committees including the Millbrook BIA, Municipal Revitalization and Heritage, Millbrook Valley Trails committees.

There was an extensive effort made by the consultant and supported by the Township to promote the public participation in the 2035 Vision Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan.  There was a notice that the plan was being updated in the 2023 Tax Insert from the Township.  In addition, the survey were repeatedly featured in the local newspaper and was promoted over 23 separate times on each of the Townships various social media platforms (23 posts on Instagram, 23 posts on X and 23 posts on Facebook).  It was also promoted on screens and/or posters at Township buildings and featured prominently on the homepage of the Townships website.

Phase 1 also included a community forum on the evening of May 10, 2023, the results of which were a part of the presentation to Council in the June 5^th report to Council (see link May10, 2023_Community Forum Event Summary).  This community forum was promoted in the local newspaper, on the Township website and social media, and to all the user groups.

From all these efforts, the survey had responses from over 319 households, 24 of 29 community user groups, and three committees and the in-person community forum had 28 in-person participants as well as a few additional who attended the discussion virtually (see link Report Parks and Facilities 2023-03).

 Council Decision on June 5, 2023

At the June 5^th Regular Council meeting, the Rethink Group presented the findings and results of Phase 1 to Council (see link Report Parks and Facilities 2023-03).  In the section of the report that pertained to Millbrook arena, the option to demolish and replace the Millbrook arena with a downtown community park was favoured by 82.5% of respondents in the survey and 75% of participants in the community forum (page 18 of the report).  It was also the favoured option by all three of the committees that provide input.

Following the presentation, the following motion was passed by Council:

“That staff be directed to commence planning for the creation of a community park on the Millbrook arena lands; and

That the existing users of the Millbrook arena be permitted to use the existing facility in its current state, until the final plans for the community park are approved by Council, or that the facility becomes a health and safety concern; and

That Council’s direction be carried forward in Phase 2 of the Parks and Recreation Plan – Vision 2035.”

 Phase 2 – Downtown Park and CMCC Lands

Building on the findings in Phase 1, Phase 2 of the project moved forward with preparing the long-term vision and goals for the new Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan and created options for both the development of the Millbrook arena lands and the remaining parklands behind the CMCC.

In October 2023, there were two community forums open to members of the public to discuss these topics and options for the parkland. These community forums received a similar promotion approach as in Phase 1, and one of the meetings was held on a weekend (October 21^st) in an attempt to improve participation.

The feedback from these two community forums was combined to the Phase 1 information, and provided the content for Rethink Group’s Phase 2 presentation to Council at the December 18, 2023 Council Meeting (see link Dec 18 2023 Agenda).

Phase 3 – Design and Amenities for Downtown Park and CMCC 

The Township is currently nearing the end of this final phase of the Vision 2035 – Parks and Recreation Master Plan update.  For this phase, the Township is working with the firm Landscape Planning, who is taking all of the data and feedback from Phases 1 and 2 and all of the community forums and public input to date. 

Landscape Planning will be presenting several conceptual designs for these two areas of parkland at an Open House on November 19^th between 4 – 7 p.m. at the CMCC in the Community Hall room

 Financial Summary of Current Temporary Usage:

Since installation of the turf field, there have been predominantly 2 - 3 different user groups in the facility.  Below is a financial summary of the past two full years of rentals in Millbrook arena operations.  The $52,153.22 combines the cost of purchasing and installing the used turf and installing a heating system that was required to enable the use of the facility during the winter months.  

Since the turf was installed, almost all of the rentals of the Millbrook arena occur between the months of October - May.  Over previous two full years, the facility was rented a total of 1,219 hours.  Over the 30-week span when the facility is primarily used, the facility was rented an average of 20.3 hours per week.  

It should be said, the facility was not expected to operate at a profit.

 Links to Background & Reports on Millbrook Arena

1. Dec 18, 2023 Council Meeting (Presentation on agenda pages 4-23) - Dec 18, 2023 Agenda
2. June 5, 2023 Parks and Recreation Report - Report Parks and Facilities 2023-03
3. May 1, 2023 Parks and Rec Plan – Phase 1 Update - Phase 1 Update Report
4. May 10, 2023 Community Forum Summary - May10, 2023_Community Forum Event Summary
5. March 20, 2023 Agenda (Parks and Facilities 2023 – 01 pages 51-285) - March 20, 2023 Agenda
6. November 4, 2019 Agenda (Parks and Facilities 2019-15 on pages 84-188) - Nov 4 2019 Agenda
7. April 1, 2019 Agenda (Parks and Facilities 2019-07 pages 69-324) - April 1, 2019 Council Agenda

Building Assessments and Studies:

1. 2019 Designated Substance Survey - Designated Substance Report
2. 2014 Arena Needs Feasibility Study Final Report - 2014 Arena Needs Feasibility Study
3. Sept 6, 2019 Mechanical Site Condition Assessment Report - 2019 Mechanical Report Kirkland
4. Sept 6, 2019 Electrical Site Condition Report - 2019_Electrical Condition Report - Kirkland
5. Barry Bryan Associates 2022 Structural Investigation Report - 2022 Structural Investigation Report

(Full report on this review available in the March 20, 2023 Regular Council Meeting - March 20, 2023 Agenda)

How is my Water and Sewer bill calculated?

For a detailed breakdown of your bill is calculated visit our Water and Sewer Billing web page.

 What is a "Fixed Charge" on my bill?

Your water and sewer bill contains a combination of both fixed charges and usage charges. Fixed charges allow the municipality to ensure that it has the money required to maintain and service all of the pipes, pumping stations and water treatment plant costs.

Most municipalities with water and sewer systems use a combination of fixed and usage charges in their billing so that people who use more, pay more, but also that the entire system can be maintained to the legislative requirements set by the Province.
More information is available on our Water and Sewer Billing web page.

 Why is my bill higher than when I lived in another Municipality?

With a smaller number of households connected to the water and sewer systems compared to larger cities, the fixed charges that cover the cost of maintaining the system are covered by fewer households. As of 2023, there are approximately 975 households connected to our water and sewer systems. The Water and Wastewater charges are based on the Water & Wastewater Financial Plan and the Rate Study. These services are user paid and therefore do not affect the municipal property tax rates.

 Where does the money go?

The money recovered with water and sewer billing goes towards the cost to maintain the water and wastewater systems. If costs are lower than expected in a given year, this money is held in reserves to fund future costs of maintenance and/or replacement of equipment within the two systems.  

 Why do I have to pay for the water system?

As a user of the system, you will be paying towards the treatment and maintenance of your drinking water and your wastewater.

 Does the new subdivision affect my bill?

The new growth within Millbrook does not affect individual bills. With more users being put onto the water and sewer systems the cost to maintain these systems are shared with a larger number of households. Unfortunately, because a lot of the infrastructure in the village is very old, there is a lot of future repair and work that needs to be done on our system. So adding more users in new subdivisions is really only going to help share these costs.

What is the best way to reduce my bill?

Ways to reduce your bill may include but aren’t limited to not watering your lawn, not washing your vehicle or installing low flow toilets and faucets. The Township has a rebate program for installing low flow toilets.  For more information please visit our “Water Saving Tips”. 

Does everyone in Millbrook pay the same rate?

Every household in Millbrook pays the same fixed charges, however metered charges vary based on usage.

 If I have questions regarding my bill, who do I call?

You can call the Public Works Clerk 705-932-9323, or the Water and Wastewater Technician 705-932-9348 for any questions regarding billing and water.  

 How often will I receive my bill?

The billing cycle is once every two months (6 bills/year). Bills are issued in February, April, June, August, October, and December. See the Water and Sewing Billing page for more information. 

How can I pay for my bill?

You can pay your water and sewer bill by mail, in person or through the Drop Off Box at the Municipal Office or by Telephone/On-line Banking. There is a Pre-Authorized Payment Plan option available as well. More information is available on our payment options page. 

How do I set up a water and wastewater billing account?

 Prior to moving in, please call or email the Township to schedule a meter reading for the property. You can contact the Public Works Clerk (905-932-9323), or the Water and Wastewater Technician (905-932-9348). To set up your account please fill out the New Customer Form.  If you are a tenant, the owner is required to fill out an authorization form.  

There is a $60 fee for creating a new water and sewer account.

 As a property owner, how can I arrange for my tenant to have an account?

Tenants may have the water and sewer bills sent directly to them with written authorization from the property owner. Property owners are responsible for notifying the Township of any new changes of tenancy to set up new accounts.
Property owners are responsible for any unpaid balances. An Authorization Form must be completed and the new tenant must also complete a Move-In form. These forms are on the Water and Sewer billing section of the website.

Where can I find more info on billing services?

More information about billing can be found on the website or by calling/emailing the Public Works Department at 705-932-9323 cmanduca@cavanmonaghan.net.

Who do I call if there are issues with my water meter?

If there is an issue with your meter, please contact the Water and Wastewater Technician at 705-932-9348. They will schedule a time to inspect your meter.

 How does the Township know how much water I used?

Your water usage is measured by the water meter connected to the water pipe that comes into your house that is connected to the watermain in the street. The water meter is connected to a transmitter on the outside of the house. The Township reads that transmitter and can see the water usage.

 I’m moving, what do I do?

If you have sold your house or you’re a tenant moving out, you must complete a Moving Out Form before the move-out date. You can also visit the Township office and complete the form in person.

If you are a tenant, the landlord must complete the landlord authorization form. A final meter read will be completed at the property and a final bill will be sent out during the next billing cycle. Please be aware the Township must be notified before the move-out date. If notification is not provided additional charges may be incurred, and a late meter reading will result in consumption variances.

 Why does my bill say “Estimated”?

If your bill says “estimated”, it means that the Township wasn’t able to read your meter properly. This could be due to your meter not working properly. Estimated readings are based off of the average water usage for a household in Millbrook. Once an “actual” read has been obtained, if you were overbilled based on the estimation you will have a credit on your account. If you were under billed you may receive a one-time larger than normal bill to account for the missed usage.

 Why is the water so hard?

The source for Millbrook’s drinking water is from groundwater well. This means there are a higher amount of dissolved minerals i.e calcium and magnesium within the water that can cause the water to be “hard”. Hard water poses no risk to public health

 What happens when it starts to snow?

The Township of Cavan Monaghan currently has a road patrol that monitors road conditions on all Township and County Roads from November to the end of March. Depending upon the timing and nature of the pending storm, crews are brought in and put on stand-by. Once the storm starts, sand trucks are sent out on designated routes to apply sand as necessary.  Operator call-ins on a winter storm event is 4:00 a.m. both during the week and on weekends.  In order to minimize winter maintenance costs, operators are only called in specifically on bad storm events.  Routine winter maintenance and clean up is usually completed during regular working hours. 

 Why do I never see a sand truck or a snow plow when it snows?

It all depends upon where you live. Primary roads as defined by traffic volumes, emergency routes and bus routes are addressed first followed by secondary less travelled roads.

 Why does it take so long for my road to be plowed?

The municipality has approximately 235km of roads to maintain or about 470km lanes of road.  At the onset of a storm, Staff prepare the roads by applying sand or salt to all routes to give drivers more traction.  Sand/salt trucks typically travel a little faster than snow plows averaging about 35km/hour.  It would take one truck about 7 hours to sand one side of all of the roads in the Township; 14 hours to cover both travel lanes.  As snow accumulates, snow plows are dispatched when a depth of about 8cm or 3 inches is reached.   Snow plows travel slightly slower at about 30km/hour.  To cover all roads in the Township it would take about 8 hours or 16 hours for both lanes.

According to the Highway Traffic Act, a snowplow operator can work 13 hours.  After that they cannot drive again in the same day and must have a minimum of 8 hours off duty before another shift can be started.  This can be challenging during a full call-out for operators in a storm situation.  The Municipality must prioritize roads for snow removal.  Main routes or main arterial roads that are travelled most are addressed first followed by roads in subdivisions and neighbourhoods. 

Why don’t we plow and sand/salt all the streets in the Township, specifically secondary and residential streets?

We do! However as noted above, primary roads as defined by traffic volumes, emergency routes and bus routes are addressed first followed by secondary less travelled roads. This balanced approach reduces both equipment costs and sand/salt usage. The Township currently exceeds the minimum standard for road maintenance as defined in the Highway Traffic Act and this balanced approach has proven to be the most efficient use of tax dollars while still minimizing environmental damage.

 Why do the plows always push snow into my driveway?

While Staff understand that this is completely frustrating, unfortunately it cannot be helped. The snow must be removed from the travelled portion of the road. When the Township receives a heavy snowfall, if possible, do not shovel your driveway until after the plow has gone by. If you must shovel do not throw the snow out onto the roadway as you may create a hazard for another vehicle, and if an accident were to occur you might be held liable.

 Who removes the snow from sidewalks?

The Township maintains 9,202 metres of sidewalks. Residents and owners/tenants of commercial properties are encouraged to remove snowfall or formation of ice in front of their property immediately following a snow fall. Clear sidewalks are essential for many citizens especially those with disabilities, people who enjoy walking as a form of exercise and children who walk to and from school.

 Why do you always plow snow against my car?

The Township must remove the snow from the travelled portion of the road. On a two-way street, the plow operator cannot push the snow away from the parked car into oncoming traffic, as it would create a hazard and liability. Snow is always pushed away from oncoming traffic. By-law 2019-25 prohibits overnight parking in Millbrook Ward between the hours of 2:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. When heavy snowfalls are predicted, residents are asked to not park on the roads. This is done to reduce the chance of plowing in parked vehicles, eliminating the chance of damaging vehicles and allowing for a more efficient plowing operation.

What can residents do to help?

1. Be patient – In heavy snow falls, it takes us longer to get all streets clear.
2. Leave room for plows - When you see the flashing lights on the winter maintenance equipment, remain a safe distance behind them. Also, never pass a snow plow. This is an extremely dangerous practice.
3. Keep parked cars off streets wherever possible. By-law 2019-25 prohibits overnight parking in Millbrook Ward between the hours of 2:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. 
4. Keep fire hydrants clear and visible.
5. Throw snow on your lawn, not on the street. Shoveling snow back onto the street creates unsafe road conditions for motorists and is prohibited by the Highway Traffic Act. 

What can I do when my mailbox is struck by the plow?

If your mailbox is damaged by a snow plow, you may be eligible for a reimbursement of a new mailbox for up to $35. Please contact the Public Works Clerk for more information: 705-932-9323.

Please note: Mailboxes that are damaged or dislodged by the direct weight and force of snow thrown from the plow are not eligible for reimbursement.

 What is my zoning?

The zoning of a property regulates how a property can be developed and implements the objectives and policies of the Township Official Plan.  The Zoning By-law states exactly:

• how land may be used
• where buildings and other structures can be located
• the types of buildings that are permitted and how they may be used
• the lot sizes and dimensions, parking requirements, building heights and setbacks from the street

 How do I find out the zoning of my property?

You can find the zoning of your property:

• by viewing the Township of Cavan Monaghan Zoning By-law 2018-58 as amended Maps  (please note that the Maps may not reflect the most up to date information and therefore you are advised to verify the zone through the two options below);
• as a layer on the County of Peterborough Public GIS Website; or
• by contacting our Planning Department at 705-932-9321.
• Once you have the zone category for your property, you can look up the corresponding permitted uses in the text of the Zoning By-law.

 Is there any way to get a variance from the zoning regulations? How do I get one?

Variances from the existing zoning are possible. Applications for a variance are considered by the Committee of Adjustment. Read our minor variance brochure to learn more about the process.

 Can I run a business out of my home?

Yes but limitations apply depending on the zoning of your property.  Section 11.14 and 11.15 of the Township's Zoning By-law outline General Provisions for home-based businesses and home-based industries.  

 Can I get a severance on my property?

Severances/consents may be given for the creation of new lots, boundary adjustments, rights-of-way, easements, long term leases and to convey additional lands to an abutting lot, provided an undersized lot is not created.  An application to sever your property is processed through the Upper Tier Municipality which is the County of Peterborough.  The County will complete a free Preliminary Severance Review to review your proposed severance and let you know if what you plan to do conforms to the relevant planning policies and makes you aware of any issues.  More information is available through the County of Peterborough's website or by calling the Planning Department at 705-743-0380.

 What are setbacks?

 Setbacks are minimum distances a building must be located from the lot lines and the road.  Setback distances apply to the rear, side and front yards and are set out in the Township's Zoning By-law.  

How do I find or get a survey of my property?

If you require a survey of your property, please contact the Peterborough Land Registry Office (No. 45) by calling 705-755-1342 or visiting the LRO website.

Where do I find information about the well on my property?

If you require a record of your well, please visit the Ministry of Environment and Energy Ministry of Environment and Energy mapped well records website or for general information regarding wells, the MOEE general information website.

Where do I find information about the septic system on my property?

If you require a record of your septic system, please visit the Peterborough Public Health septic system website.  This site contains the following information and applications related to sewage (septic) systems:

Info:

Information Package
Your Septic System Friend

Applications:

Installation or Alteration
Inspection of Existing Septic Systems
Copy of Sewage System and/or Installation Report

 Where do I get a building permit?

To apply for a Permit to Construct or Demolish you will need to fill out an application and submit it along with other identified supporting documents. Go to the Building Permits page to ensure you fully understand what you will need. From there, you will be directed the online Cloudpermit e-permitting system page. If you require assistance please contact the building department at 705-932-9347.

 Do I need a building permit?

Most projects will require a building permit. Information on when you need a permit is available on the Building Permits page. 

Can I build a shed on my property?

Section 11.4.2 of the Township's Zoning By-law outlines provisions for Accessory Buildings and Structures.  You should confirm the zoning of your property to understand any additional regulations that may apply to the lot coverage and height of the accessory building.  You can find the zone category for your property:

• by viewing the Township of Cavan Monaghan Zoning By-law 2018-58 as amended Maps (please note that the Maps may not reflect the most up to date information and therefore you are advised to verify the zone through the two options below);
• as a layer on the County of Peterborough Public GIS Website; or
• by contacting our Planning Department at 705-932-9321.
• Once you have the zone category for your property, you can look up the corresponding permitted uses in the text of the Zoning By-law.

 Do I need a building permit for a swimming pool?

 Yes.  For a swimming pool, applications are submitted through the online Cloudpermit e-permitting system.

Do I need a building permit for a sign?

All signs in the Township are now regulated by the Township of Cavan Monaghan's Sign By-law.
If you are considering installing a sign or changing a sign, it is important to know what the rules are.
Before submitting a sign permit application, please read and understand regulations for signage.  Click here for more information on signage regulations.

 How long does it take for a permit to be issued?

• Single-family dwellings – 10 business days
• Small buildings other than houses – 15 business days
• Large buildings – 20 business days
• Complex buildings – 30 business days

Does the Township of Cavan Monaghan have any load restrictions on their roads?

The Township of Cavan Monaghan applies load restrictions during the "spring break up" period when a road base is at its weakest condition as ground frost thaws and melts. Signs will be posted for March 1st, 2021 and will be removed on May 1 or when it is deemed that the restrictions are no longer needed.

Periods of reduced vehicle loading is enforced on select Township roads that may be susceptible to damage.  Load restrictions apply only when the signs are displayed on the roadway. 

Vehicles exceeding the 5 tonne per axle load restriction must take alternate routes or will be subject to penalties described in the Highway Traffic Act.

How do I report a dead animal, or fallen tree on a Township Road

 You can report a problem or concern through our website or by calling our Public Works Clerk 705-932-9323

I have just built a new house how do I get a 911 address?

The Township of Cavan Monaghan municipal addresses are assigned at the time an entrance permit is approved. Civic addresses are numbered based on the placement of the driveway.

There is a fee of $55.00 plus applicable taxes for administration and the placement of a green metal blade civic address sign at the property entrance.

Generally, even numbers are assigned to the north and west sides of the road and odd numbers are assigned to the south and east side of the road. However, this is not always the case as some numbers were assigned to properties prior to the amalgamation of the three townships in 1998 and adoption of the numbering policy.

For information regarding 9-1-1 numbering, please contact the Public Works Clerk at 705-932-9323

The Township of Cavan Monaghan adopted their Climate Change Action Plan with a goal to reduce our Corporate GHG emissions by 29% by 2031 and our Community GHG emissions by 31% also by 2031.  The action plan was categorized by Corporate Actions and Community Actions.  Some of the strategies and corresponding activities are itemized below:

 Corporate

Strategy: Enhance operational efficiency of existing buildings

• Staff do a regular facility inspection to identify repair and efficiency upgrade requirements; Applied for funding for retrofits to the Old Millbrook School to make an older building more energy efficient; have replaced windows
• Lights are replaced with more energy efficient alternatives

Strategy: Build municipal facilities to ensure high environmental performance

• Section 3.6 of the Township's Official Plan (Energy Conservation) requires that all buildings in excess of 600 square metres to meet a LEED Silver or better design standard; Section 3.15 specifically defines Council considerations for development of industrial, institutional, commercial and multiple residential buildings specifically related to LEED Design
• The Cavan Monaghan Community Centre (CMCC)was built to a LEED Standard

 Strategy: Improve environmental performance of existing municipal facilities

• Appliances within the CMCC are all EnergyStar rated
• Renovations to the Municipal Office included the upgrade of insulation to improve heating and cooling systems.  
• Recently upgraded the windows of the Old Millbrook School to more energy efficient models.

 Strategy: Utilize renewable energy sources

• Public works have installed eight solar panels across the Township 

 Strategy: Improve energy efficiency of the streetlighting system

• Exterior lighting in downtown Millbrook has been retrofitted to more energy efficient models.  

Strategy: Reduce the amount of organic waste generated through municipal operations

• Municipal Office has been equipped with source separated containers including organic waste.

 Community

Workplaces and Schools: Strategy: Improve energy and water efficiency of existing buildings and business operations

We have a Community Improvement Plan (CIP) for downtown Millbrook that offers Financial Incentives for Building & Site Improvements including windows, roofs and doors.

Homes: Strategy: Build new homes to be more efficient and have a smaller environmental footprint

• We have provisions in our Official Plan supporting alternative energy: Specifically, Section 3.2; Section 3.22 Urban Design Guidelines and Section 4.1.7 Residential Urban Design Guidelines

Homes: Strategy: Reduce the amount of waste generated by residents that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions

• The Township of Cavan Monaghan started a pilot Organic Waste program for Millbrook area residents in November 2019.
• Molok's have been installed at the Transfer Station for all Township resident to dispose of their organic waste.

Workplaces and Schools: Strategy: Facilitate climate change friendly business operations and practices

We have approximately ten (10) businesses that have signed on to the Sustainable Peterborough partnership program. Through this program businesses commit to support the Sustainable Peterborough vision and consistently act towards becoming more sustainable.

Workplaces and Schools: Strategy: Support local economic resilience and growth of the local green economy

• In September 2020 Peterborough County Council passed a motion to enter into a pilot partnership agreement with Peterborough Green Up to support achieving the community targets as a collaborative, that were established within the County, Townships and 2 First Nations
• The result of that was the formation of a Community Advisory Group to assist GreenUp and the County in implementing and executing actions, strategies and deliverables that will meet CCAP Objectives. Township Staff are part of that committee
• To date three key initiatives the Committee has focused on to date:

• Home Retrofit Video Series
• Green Economy Peterborough
• County School Climate Action Guide

On the Move: Strategy: build an active transportation network and support active transportation

• We added Station Trail to our Millbrook Valley Trail System – a 1.6 km trail that connects the new subdivision to downtown 
• We added a community bike rack on King Street in Downtown Millbrook 
• We are part of the Kawartha Cycling Route 
• We actively work with developers to encourage/require the installation of sidewalks and connections to our trail systems as a way of making our community more walkable.
• Section 12.2.15 of the Township's Zoning By-law currently requires bicycle parking for retail, personal, institutional, industrial, public and private school and dwellings or mixed use buildings with more than 6 dwelling units.

Our Food: Strategy: Support localization of the food system

• We have a community garden located at the Old Millbrook School
• The Millbrook Farmers Market has added more dates to their schedule and use the parking lot of the Old Millbrook School.

Our Land: Strategy: Protect and enhance natural assets

• The Township recently adopted a Tree Preservation Policy.

 When are my property taxes due?

Property taxes are billed twice each year. The Interim bill is mailed the last week in January and the Final bill is mailed the first week in July of each year. Payments are due on the instalment due dates and payment options are available.