Highlights of the Meeting of Council on Tuesday, April 28, 2026

Election Sign By-Law Update

Aurora Town Council approved updates to the sign by-law that modernize election sign rules, better alignment with York Region’s standards, and clarify where signs can be placed under the Town’s new ward system. The amendments introduce a $203 application fee and address considerations such as traffic safety, visibility and environmental impacts. Together, these changes create a clearer, more consistent and easier-to-administer framework that supports candidates while ensuring election signs are managed safely and responsibly across Town. A by-law to amend the penalty amounts will also be brought forward to a Council meeting.

2027 Budget Timeline and Process

Aurora Town Council approved the proposed 2027 budget timeline, marking the first year of the Town’s new four-year operating budget cycle. The 2027 budget, set to be delivered to Council on January 6, 2027, will address key financial pressures, including inflation and capital asset management needs. It is anticipated that should the proposed timelines be approved, Aurora will adopt the 2027 operating budget and capital plan by February 2027 with the Mayor’s 2028 to 2030 multi-year budget to follow for Council review and adoption by December 2027.

Windrow Removal Pilot Program End of Season Update

Aurora Town Council approved the continuation of a pilot program model for windrow removal for the 2026 to 2027 season. The pilot program will include the same $200 fee and program parameters as the previous season including financial assistance for eligible residents.

Yonge Street Active Transportation Facilities

Aurora Town Council approved an additional $2,531,900 for the Yonge Street Active Transportation Facilities project which includes a multi-use path on the west side of Yonge and a sidewalk on the east side. These improvements will enhance safety for all road users and align with the 2024 Active Transportation Master Plan. The total budget is now approximately $7,861,100 funded through development charges, the Growth and New reserve and a $2,800,000 contribution from York Region, which is covering half the cost of the multi-use path.

Motion Regarding Annual Review and Release of Closed Session Materials

A motion put forward by Mayor Tom Mrakas and supported by Council requests an annual review of all closed session reports, minutes and related materials to determine which items no longer need to remain confidential under the Municipal Act. Staff, in consultation with the Town Solicitor, will identify materials suitable for public release and provide an annual public report summarizing the number and type of items reviewed, what was released, what remains confidential, and the reasons why. This review and reporting process will now become a standard governance practice for the Town.

Motion Regarding Reporting Framework for Members Attending Conferences, Seminars and Events

A motion put forward by Councillor John Gallo and supported by Council directs staff to create a formal reporting framework for Members of Council who attend conferences, seminars, or external events paid for by the Town. The framework will require councillors to publicly report key details—including event information, costs, sessions attended, key learnings, and any best practices relevant to Aurora—through a Council or Committee agenda within a set timeframe. Staff will also review and report back on any administrative, financial, or procedural implications of implementing this new requirement, including how it aligns with existing policies, as well as setting limitations to the number of conferences a member may attend.