The Essa Update – August 2026

Economic Development Strategic Plan Underway

The Planning Department is pleased to announce that work is underway on a new Economic Development Strategic Plan for the Township of Essa. This initiative has been made possible through grant funding received from the Rural Ontario Development (ROD) program.

Following a competitive Request for Proposals (RFP) process, the Township has retained a qualified consulting firm to lead the development of the Strategic Plan. The project will help establish a long-term vision and identify opportunities to support economic growth, attract investment, and strengthen the local economy.

The Township looks forward to working with the consultant and engaging with the community throughout the process, with the Strategic Plan anticipated to be completed in early 2027

Back-to-School Safety

With students returning to school this September, we remind all motorists to slow down and stay alert in school zones and neighbourhoods. Please obey posted speed limits, watch for children crossing the road, and always stop for school buses when their red lights are flashing.

Let’s work together to make getting to and from school safe for everyone. Slow down. Stay alert. Keep our students safe!

The 2026 Municipal & School Board Election

Voting Dates and Locations

• Advance Voting 1 - Saturday, October 17, 2026 - 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m - Angus Recreation Centre
• Advance Voting 2 - Wednesday, October 21, 2026 - 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m - Township of Essa Administration Centre
• Election Day - Monday, October 26, 2026 - 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m - Check your Voter Notification Card

What’s New & Exciting This Fall

• Thornton Skatepark - A brand-new skatepark at the Thornton Community Centre gives residents another place to get active and enjoy the outdoors.
• Baxter Pump Track - The new pump track in Baxter adds an exciting outdoor recreation option for cyclists and riders.
• Outdoor Basketball & Pickleball Courts - New outdoor courts at the Angus Recreation Centre provide more opportunities to play, practice and stay active.
• Enhanced Tennis Court Lighting - Improved lighting at tennis courts in Thornton, Baxter and Angus means more opportunities to enjoy the courts.
• Community Gathering Spaces – New gazebos have been added at Brownley Meadows Park, the Angus Skatepark and the Clocktower in Angus, creating more shaded spaces for residents to gather and enjoy the outdoors.

Upcoming Community Events

• 27th Annual Thornton Corn Roast - Sunday, September 13, 2026, | 4:00 p.m. - Thornton Recreation Centre Parking Lot
• Ivy Days - Saturday, September 12, 2026, | Starting at 9:00 a.m. - Ivy Hall
• Angus Rock & Roll - September 18–20, 2026 - Angus Arena
• Angus Wrestling - Saturday, September 26, 2026, | Doors Open at 6:30 p.m. - Angus Arena

Check Out the Drop-In Recreation Schedule!

Looking for something to do? Check out the Township of Essa’s recreation calendar for upcoming drop-in programs, activities, and schedules!

View the Drop-In Recreation Schedule: https://calendar.essatownship.on.ca/ 

Make Payments Easy with Pre-Authorized Payments

Simplify your payments and avoid missing due dates by signing up for pre-authorized payments:

Water & Sewer: Automatic withdrawal of your exact quarterly bill amount on the due date.

• Sign up for the Water & Sewer Pre-Authorized Payment Plan

Property Taxes: Automatic withdrawals applied directly to your property tax balance.

• Sign up for the Property Tax Pre-Authorized Payment Plan

Stay Informed: Township By-Laws

With summer among us, residents are reminded to stay informed about Township by-laws, including those related to property standards such as untidy lots.

To review all applicable by-laws, please visit: https://www.essatownship.on.ca/council-administration/by-laws/.

If you observe a possible violation, you may submit a report using our online Reporting Tool.

Please note that the Township of Essa does not investigate anonymous complaints.

Marriage Licences & Civil Ceremonies

Planning to get married? The Township of Essa makes the process easier with online application submissions and appointment bookings.

• Submit your Marriage Licence application online.
• Book your Marriage Licence appointment online.

Visit the Township’s Marriage Licences & Civil Ceremonies webpage for details and to get started:
https://www.essatownship.on.ca/council-administration/licences-and-permits/marriage-licenses-civil-ceremonies/ 

2026 Tax Installment Dates

• Third Installment - September 24, 2026
• Final Installment - November 25, 2026

Water & Sewer Invoice / Due Date Schedule

Essa Public Library

Family Fun Night arrives on Thursday, August 20 from 5-7:30pm at the Angus Branch. This multi-layered outdoor event is free for all to attend, (no library card needed). Enjoy inflatables, a Touch-A-Truck experience, animals from Lucy’s Farm Zoo, games, and food trucks.

We want to hear from you. Please share your thoughts about library open hours at both Angus and Thornton locations by filling out our Community Survey. 1 response per household.

Have questions or need assistance? We’re here to help!

Township of Essa
5786 County Road 21, Utopia, ON L0M 1T0
📞 Phone: 705-424-9917

Stay connected by following us on our official social media channels and visiting our website for the latest updates, programs, and notices.