The Essa Update – May 2026

Operation Brain Freeze

Operation Brain Freeze is back for 2026 from May 1 - September 30!

Keep an eye out! Our Municipal Law Enforcement Officers will be on the lookout for young riders showing off their safe cycling skills.

If you’re “caught” riding safely, you’ll receive a frozen treat voucher, and you could be the lucky winner of one of our monthly prizes!

If you’d like to be part of this great cause, feel free to reach out to us!

Road Construction Updates

Township of Essa
5th Line (25th Sideroad to 20th Sideroad) is closed for bridge repairs. Detours are in place - expect delays and limited access.

For more details, read: https://www.essatownship.on.ca/news-notices/notice-of-road-construction-5th-line-from-25th-sideroad-to-20th-sideroad/

County of Simcoe

County Road 21 (Innisfil/Essa): Road work between County Rd 53 and County Rd 27 expected to be completed by May 30th.
County Road 21 (Essa): Work between Kallen Blvd. and County Rd 56 continuing through May and until June 26th.

For more information: https://simcoe.ca/residents/trs/road-projects

Development & Planning News

The Township’s Planning Department hosted its fourth Public Information Centre (PIC) for the New Official Plan on April 8, 2026, at the Thornton Arena. The session provided an opportunity for residents, stakeholders, and interested community members to learn more about the project and offer feedback.

Approximately 35 members of the public attended the event, where the Township’s planning consultant delivered a comprehensive presentation outlining the updates and refinements made since the release of the first draft of the New Official Plan.

The Draft New Official Plan, including the full text and associated schedules, is available online at: Official Plan Review - Essa Township

2026 Tax Installment Dates

Second Installment - June 25, 2026
Third Installment - September 24, 2026
Final Installment - November 25, 2026

Water & Sewer Invoice / Due Date Schedule

Utility Billing Period	Utility Due Date
April 1 to June 30, 2026	July 31, 2026
July 1 to September 30, 2026	October 31, 2026
October 1 to December 31, 2026	January 31, 2027

Essa Fire Department Safety Message:

Be prepared to stay safe during emergencies.

Your kit should include: Water & non-perishable food, medications & first aid, flashlight & batteries, phone chargers, cash, and important documents.

Store it in an easy-to-access place and check it yearly.

Essa Public Library

Unlock new skills and boost your resume - for free! With your Essa Public Library card, you have access to LinkedIn Learning, an online platform offering hundreds of expert-led courses. From business and technology to creative skills, you can learn at your own pace and earn certificates to showcase your achievements.

Explore this and other Digital Resources at essalibrary.ca

The 2026 Municipal and School Board Election

The next municipal election will be held on Monday, October 26, 2026.

Visit RegisterToVoteON.ca to:

Check if you're on the voters list
Update your information
Add yourself to the Register
Learn about voter eligibility

Make sure you're ready for Election Day!

⛳ Swing for Health is Back!

Join us on June 2, 2026, for the Swing for Health Golf Tournament.

Register as a golfer:

Foursomes: $600
Single players: $160

Registration includes an 18-hole round with cart, plus lunch & snacks, plated dinner, silent auction, and on-course competitions & prizes. Space is limited and available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

For more information or to register, please contact:
Abbey McClinton
📞 (705) 424-9917 ext. 108
📧 amcclinton@essatownship.on.ca

The 2026 Municipal and School Board Election

Elections will take place on Monday, October 26, 2026, with the new term running from November 15, 2026 to November 14, 2030.

Nominations open: May 1, 2026
Nomination Day: August 21, 2026 (9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.)

Positions include Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Councillors (Wards 1–3), and School Board Trustees. Candidates must submit completed nomination forms, required signatures, and fees with the Clerk prior to filing.

Pick up your candidate package and don’t forget to book an appointment to file your nomination.

Stay Informed: Township By-Laws

With summer approaching, 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.

Don’t forget your 2026 dog tag!

Dog licensing helps ensure lost pets can be quickly reunited with their owners and helps avoid unnecessary pound fees.

Dog tags are available online, in person, or by mail.

After Hours Canine Control

After-Hours Canine Control services operate during evenings, weekends, and statutory holidays.
If you have found a dog running at large, Please Contact: Ontario Animal Control at 705-229-9171

Please note: This service is for canines only. Calls related to cats or wildlife will not be responded to through this service.

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.