General City News

The City of Owen Sound is thrilled to launch its new Green Bin Program, with collection starting the first week of June. Residents will be able to use green bins to dispose of organic waste, such as food scraps, soiled paper, pet waste, and other compostable materials, with curbside collection every week. It’s easy and convenient to take part in the program; no additional tags are required, and bins will be delivered directly to eligible homes!

The walking track at the Bayshore Community Centre will be closed to the public beginning April 25, 2025, until early September. This closure is necessary to allow for capital project work, including the replacement of the arena slab floor, arena boards, and safety netting, as well as the repainting of the upper concourse and washrooms.

Over the next two months, City staff will be out across the community, tackling seasonal maintenance tasks to freshen up public spaces. This includes hanging new and seasonal banners in the River District, street sweeping, sidewalk pressure washing, and road line painting.

The Owen Sound Leaf and Yard Waste compost site will re-open its gates for the season on Monday, April 14, at 8:30 a.m., weather permitting. Those using the site are asked to please take the time to read the allowed and prohibited materials list below, as the City continues to ensure compliance at the site. 

The site will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week, allowing the convenient disposal of leaf and yard waste materials. 

The City of Owen Sound is pleased to share that a new Collective Agreement between the City employees represented by CUPE 1189-01 and the City of Owen Sound has been ratified.

Both the union, which represents many of the City’s outside workers, and City Council have formally approved the terms of the new contract on April 2, 2025. The previous agreement expired on March 31, 2024, and the new agreement runs through to March 31, 2027.

The 2025 Home and Cottage Expo will be held at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre and JD McArthur Arena on Saturday, May 3, and Sunday, May 4, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. With overwhelming interest in this year’s event, booth spaces are nearly sold out. Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your brand at one of the industry’s most significant events in this area.

The City of Owen Sound has received its 2023 Financial Indicator Review from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. The results confirm that all the City’s key financial indicators are within low-risk thresholds, meaning financial metrics (such as debt levels, reserves, and revenue stability) do not pose any major financial concerns. 

The Owen Sound River District is proud to announce that it is the recipient of the Ontario Business Improvement Area Association (OBIAA) Special Events Award of Excellence. The Award was received in the Marketing & Promotions category in recognition of the Wheel & Ride Safety Festival and Bike Program event held annually.