Making Decisions That Matter – February 25 edition
This is a summary of Regional Council’s decisions from its February 25, 2026 meeting. With input from the community, Regional Council sets the direction for the Region as an organization and makes decisions that help improve the lives of Waterloo Region residents every day. Please refer to the minutes for an official record of the meeting.
34 hybrid buses will fuel efficiency, lower costs, and reduce emissions
Thirty-four diesel-powered Grand River Transit buses at the end of their life span will be replaced with more fuel-efficient diesel-hybrids to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Council approved New Flyer Industries Canada as the provider of the buses. Arriving in 2027, they will be paid for through the provincial and federal Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, as well as the GRT bus reserve. The buses being replaced are end-of-life, and the new orders are critical for maintaining existing services, and reducing transit emissions.
Region looks for ways to enhance winter maintenance for GRT riders
Amid a winter with record snowfall, Council has asked Grand River Transit to find ways to ensure winter maintenance at bus stops is responsive to riders’ needs. Staff will provide options for enhancing winter maintenance to the Sustainability, Infrastructure, and Development Committee ahead of the 2026-2027 winter season.
Ensuring efficient and cost-effective use of Region’s corporate space
Council has asked staff to ensure the Region is using the space in its buildings and facilities most efficiently and cost-effectively. Facilities staff will complete an inventory of all corporate buildings, determine space needs, and report back on opportunities to consolidate, repurpose, or deliver service differently to ensure the most efficient and cost-effective use of Regional spaces.
Preparing water and wastewater systems for growth in Wellesley
Council has endorsed a water and wastewater plan for the future of Wellesley that will meet the township’s projected population growth. Wellesley is expected to grow by 1,900 people to a population of 5,600 by 2051. To accommodate this growth, the Region is proposing a water tower that will increase water supply and expansion of the Wellesley wastewater treatment plant, among other improvements. The plan has been shared with residents for feedback.
Council approves tenders for water infrastructure upgrades
Council has approved tenders for two projects that involve planned renewal work and new watermains. The upgrades are needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of the Region’s water system. The contractors for two planned upgrades to water infrastructure are:
- Turnbull Water Storage Reservoirs Renewal and Upgrades in Cambridge
- Columbia Street Watermains, Westmount Road to King Street in Waterloo
Both projects are part of the Region’s approved 2026-2035 Water Capital Program.
Council calls to preserve Regional Chair role as elected position
Council is asking the Province of Ontario to uphold Waterloo Region residents’ ability to democratically elect their own Regional Chair. The Chair has always been elected by the people to maintain accountability, transparency, and public confidence in the Region’s decision making. Council’s request will be shared with the Premier of Ontario and other provincial leaders.