After hearing a presentation about the linear infrastructure capital construction projects for 2025, Chatham-Kent Mayor Darrin Canniff entered a successful motion in regards to gravel roads.
“That staff report back on an investment and debenture plan of approximately $30-million to accelerate the conversion of gravel roads in Chatham-Kent,” Canniff said in his motion at the March 3, 2025 meeting, which was approved by Council.
Chatham-Kent staff says the 2025 linear infrastructure workplan includes an increase to 60 construction
programs and projects, which will total approximately $84-million.
This list includes the implementation of the gravel road conversion program, along with several key projects, including:
– Annual pavement preservation and rehabilitation packages
– Continuing sewer separation and road reconstruction programs, including King Street West from 2nd Street to Lacroix Street
– Completion of the Queen’s Line and Merlin Road intersection roundabout and bridge rehabilitation projects
– Talbot Trail road realignment east of Coatsworth Road
– Watermain re-lining program – in various locations in Ridgetown
– Construction of the Laurentia Drain and Rosalie Roberts Drainage improvements
– Slope stabilization projects including along Thames Street, Short Line, and Glasow Line in various locations
Meanwhile, Wallaceburg Councillor Carmen McGregor entered a successful motion to pause the farm-tax ratio in Chatham-Kent.
“The Farm Tax Ratio remain status quo at 22% until after the MPAC tax re-assessment pause is removed by the Provincial Government and updated assessment data can be analyzed and a report be brought to the next term of Council,” McGregor said in her motion.
Staff had been recommending the farm tax class ratio be reinstated at the Provincial threshold with a phased in approach of 23.5% in 2025 and 25% in 2026.
