Rideau Lakes residents will once again be able to attend council and committee meetings in person starting November.
The township announced Tuesday that elected officials and staff will return to Council Chambers with the beginning of the new council term.
The move follows a decision by the Township’s Joint Health and Safety Committee to revoke their virtual meetings recommendation effective Nov. 15.
Council and committee meetings were moved to virtual following an October 2025 meeting where a councillor allegedly called 9-1-1 on members of the public.
With the recommendation now revoked, residents will once again be welcome inside Council Chambers to observe meetings and participate in local government.
Chief Administrative Officer Shellee Fournier says the return to in-person meetings is an important step as the township begins a new council term.
Fournier says public participation, transparency and respectful discussion are important parts of effective local government.
A new schedule of council and committee meetings will be established following the inauguration of the new council.
The next Committee of the Whole meeting is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 23.
