high-level summary - The city council held a special meeting to approve the agenda and discuss the 2026 budget presentation and amendment process. The agenda was approved unanimously, and the meeting outlined how amendments to the budget would be considered at a later date, with veto power by the mayor and potential override by a two-thirds vote. The discussion also highlighted the influence of the new strong mayor powers on budgeting.

Five most important topics discussed 1) Acknowledgment of Indigenous Lands - The meeting opened with a land acknowledgment recognizing Indigenous peoples in the region. Quote: “The regional municipality of Niagara and the town of Grimsby stand with all Indigenous people past and present in promoting the wise stewardship of the lands on which we live.” - Impact: Sets a context for respectful engagement and may influence future decisions and collaborations with Indigenous communities.

2) Approval of the Agenda - The agenda for the special council meeting was approved unanimously. Quote: “Resolved that the agenda for the November 10th, 2025 special council meeting be approved.” - Impact: Clears the path for proceeding with scheduled business and budget discussions.

3) 2026 Budget Presentation - Tony presented the 2026 budget, emphasizing the town’s vision and priorities. Quote: “Long-term goals can't be accomplished overnight, but progress can be made one budget at a time.” - Impact: Introduces the guiding priorities (people, places, prosperity) and outlines operating versus project funding streams.

4) Budget Timeline Improvements - The budget adoption timeline has been accelerated by at least two months, with the aim of approval before the new year. Quote: “This is also the first budget for the town under the new strong mayor powers.” - Impact: Faster timeline may affect how quickly amendments and approvals occur and how responsive the process is to residents.

5) Amendment and Approval Process - The process allows amendments to be submitted by council members for a special meeting on November 24, with the mayor able to veto amendments by December 1; a two-thirds majority can override a veto. Quote: “After the process is complete, the budget is deemed to be adopted as amended.” - Impact: Establishes a structured mechanism for adjustments and potential governance checks and balances.

File numbers discussed - No specific file numbers were mentioned in this section of the transcript.

Opportunities for public input - The budget was made available to the public on November 5; however, no explicit public consultation opportunities were noted during this section. Residents may still have opportunities to comment during subsequent budget discussions or public meetings.

Motions and outcomes 1) Motion to Approve the Agenda - Title: Approval of the November 10th, 2025 Special Council Meeting Agenda - Outcome: Passed unanimously

Next steps related to motions - Council members can submit amendments to the budget by November 24 - A special council meeting will be held on November 24 to consider amendments - The mayor has until December 1 to veto amendments, with a two-thirds majority needed to override a veto

Councillors present - Councillor Freight - Councillor DeFlavio - Councillor Devoli Note: The Mayor and Tony (Presenter) were also present, but the list above reflects the councillors specifically noted in this section.