The 2016 federal census statistics released today show Chatham-Kent’s population decreased by two per cent in the last five years, from 103,671 to 101,647.
When broken down by urban areas within Chatham-Kent, the numbers show Dresden and Tilbury as the only communities with an increase in population since 2011. Wallaceburg showed a slight decrease in population as well, along with Chatham, Blenheim, Ridgetown, Bothwell, Wheatley and Thamesville.
Here is the breakdown:
Although the overall decrease wasn’t a surprise, Chatham-Kent CAO Don Shropshire said he is heartened by the fact that the drop has slowed to less than half of the 4.2% decrease the municipality suffered in the census period from 2006 to 2011.
“After the 2011 census figures were released we realized we needed to take a more active role in promoting growth in our community,” he said. “We developed initiatives in resident attraction and retention in 2012 and 2013 and our efforts are paying off.”
Municipal officials say through community engagement, support, and active partnerships, Chatham-Kent was designated as Canada’s first official Welcoming Community by the department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada in 2016.
The Municipality also works with Provincial and Federal governments to attract and integrate newcomer immigrants through the Newcomer Attraction Program and the Chatham-Kent Local Immigration Partnership.
Municipal and community partners are working together to promote the community as a preferred destination for those prefer smaller communities that have cultural and lifestyle amenities such as active retirees, municipal officials said.
Shropshire added economics play a key role in attracting and retaining residents and Chatham-Kent has been on a steady trend of decreasing employment and increasing opportunities.
Chatham-Kent’s most recent unemployment rate from November of last year was 5.8 per cent, and more than a half per cent below the provincial average of 6.4 per cent. Local unemployment has decreased for the 10th consecutive month.
“Our social assistance levels have also shown a steady decline,” Shropshire said. “Last year the Chatham-Kent Real Estate Board home sales were up more than 17 per cent and yet home prices are still very affordable compared to most places. Things are looking good in a number of areas.”
Mayor Randy Hope said the balanced approach of building he community socially, economically and culturally is the right approach.
“We’re on the right track,” he said. “We are in far better shape for growth than we have been for several years.”
– Editor’s note: The Sydenham Current has interviewed Don Shropshire about this story. Watch for a follow-up, featuring more comments from Chatham-Kent’s CAO.
– Photo credit: Municipality of Chatham-Kent
