Lake of Bays approves changes to the Road Licence Agreement Program
Lake of Bays Council approved changes to the Road Licence Agreement Program (RLAP), in the January 14, 2025, meeting.
Staff recommended that changes to the program include:
- Removing roads, streets and lanes on subdivision plans
- Address new access only in agreements during construction, removing renewal and annual fees
- Remove the necessity of driveways and roads that are pre-existing to enter the agreement
- Rewrite the agreement for greater clarity and understanding
- Review the Road Purchasing Policy and update it in accordance with the changes to the RLAP
Council clarified that new construction would mean new agreements.
Mayor, Terry Glover, made a statement acknowledging the difficulties the new RLAP has caused, and “one thing I haven’t said that needs to be said.”
He said, “I’m sorry. I’m sorry for the hardships this may have caused, along with the frustration and uncertainty experienced by those affected.”
“Council’s have an important role in shaping policies that serve our community. When a policy causes division or damages the relationship between the public and the township we are responsible for re-assessing and making things right. That’s where we are now.”
He suggested that the changes will help “start repairing relationships.”
According to Glover, the initial goal of the policy was “to protect residents.”
He added that although legal and liability advice is necessary, it’s essential to strike a balance. Therefore, the agreement was viewed “with a fresh set of eyes” for a fair compromise.
“We welcome public feedback as we work to fix what went wrong. It’s not just about refining policies, it’s about rebuilding trust and closing this issue properly,” said Glover.
Council announced they will provide an additional month for public feedback to ensure consideration is given to concerns before the final decision is made and the amended agreement by-law is passed on February 11th.
Glover expressed hope for “a return to the way things were for many decades.”
He added that Council and staff will also undergo training “on best practices” for initiating new programs.
Councillor, Nancy Tapley, expressed the importance of accepting responsibility for mistakes. She said, “I think it’s very important when we do get it wrong, which isn’t all that often believe it or not, that we acknowledge that and make certain people know that we’re human.”
Staff and the township’s solicitor will rewrite the agreement, and it will be presented in the upcoming meeting for approval.
