Council Supports Next Steps for the University Avenue Lands and the New Hospital

For immediate release (August 12, 2026) – At the August 10, 2026, Council meeting, Orillia City Council approved under its resolution of August 5, 2026, concerning the University Avenue lands and the proposed site of the new Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital. In furtherance of the August 5 resolutions, Council directed staff to obtain independent legal advice to support the preparation and completion of the definitive agreements.

"Orillia will have a growing campus, and Orillia will have a new hospital. Our residents deserve both, done properly," said Mayor Don McIsaac. "Council passed the resolution because we all want the same thing: the right decision, not just the fastest one. Completing the process carefully protects everyone at this table, including our partners."

The direction reflects the shared destination Council, Lakehead University and OSMH have each affirmed: a growing university campus with expanded enrolment in Orillia, a new hospital for our region, the interests of Orillia’s residents safeguarded, and every applicable law and City policy followed.

Council thanks the Chair and Board of Governors of Lakehead University and the Chair and Board of Directors of Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital for their contributions to Council’s deliberations and looks forward to continuing this work together.

The City’s decision does not interrupt hospital planning, which continues under the provincial capital process. The legal work now underway proceeds alongside it, so that the agreements giving effect to these generational projects rest on the strongest possible foundation.

Portions of the August 10 meeting were held in closed session as permitted by the Municipal Act for matters involving land and advice subject to solicitor-client privilege. Further information will be shared as the definitive agreements are completed.