Chatham Councillor Alysson Storey will introduce a motion at the May 12 council meeting calling for a municipal response to the economic impact of U.S. tariffs on local industries.
Her motion notes that tariffs have created uncertainty in key sectors like manufacturing, agriculture, energy, and steel and aluminum — sectors that support about 8,300 local jobs tied to U.S. demand. It also cites recent layoffs in the region’s automotive sector.
Storey is asking municipal administration to prepare a report outlining:
– A financial review of all non-essential spending over $200,000 that could be redirected to economic relief efforts;
– A draft emergency plan for a local economic stimulus and support fund, including measures such as tax relief, job loss support, and initiatives to boost local supply chains;
– An economic assessment identifying high-risk employment sectors and potential job losses tied to tariffs;
– A financial contingency plan for potential budget impacts due to widespread job loss.
Council would vote on any proposed actions after reviewing the report.
