Council votes to support Library Construction

May 21, 2025 - Regular Meeting of Aylmer Council

In a 5-2 vote, the Council for the Town of Aylmer supported Mayor Couckuyt's motion regarding the construction of a building to be leased by the County of Elgin for library purposes.

Full Text of the Motion

That Council approve in principle the construction of an 8000 square foot building to be leased to the County of Elgin for library purposes; and,

That a "letter of intent" as required by the County of Elgin be sent; and,

That the County of Elgin be asked for a long-term lease of 20 years; and,

That the County of Elgin be asked to establish a fundraising committee for this building; and,

That Council single source the design of the new library to the Town's appointed engineering firm (GEI Consultants) to proceed as soon as possible in 2025; and,

That GEI be directed to place priority upon a design that connects the Old Town hall on both floors and is in keeping with the existing character and design of the old town hall; and,

That GEI also be directed to examine costing for a standalone library build in close proximity to the old town hall; and,

That interior design considerations be in collaboration with the County of Elgin; and,

That a 2025 budget amendment of $250,000 be approved by Council towards the detailed engineering and architectural design sufficient to meet grant requirements and that this amount be funded through the Council Initiatives Reserve.

Next Steps

The motion has been forwarded to Elgin County Council for consideration. The County is currently undertaking public consultation to gather feedback about a potential relocation of the Aylmer library to the East Elgin Community Complex. Please complete the survey if you would like to voice your thoughts about the relocation proposal: https://engageelgin.ca/aylmerlibrary/surveys/aylmer-library-survey