Council Discusses 2024 Community Improvement Plan
SOUTHWEST MIDDLESEX - During the April 17 council meeting, a major discussion point was the 2024 Community Improvement Plan (CIP) application. The meeting, presided over by Mayor Allan Mayhew, delved into the details of a specific grant application that seeks to leverage community improvement funding for local development projects.
Jeff Brick, Interim Chief Administrative Officer, presented the details of the CIP application, emphasizing the significant financial leverage the plan offers. He noted that the community’s contribution to the project costs is only about 1/6 of the total, highlighting the efficient use of municipal funds to facilitate larger development projects. Brick also pointed out that the Economic Development Committee, chaired by Councillor McGill, had reviewed and supported the application, further underlining its significance to the community’s economic vitality.
The primary focus of the discussion was a grant application by Jatia Enterprises Inc. for building, property, and accessibility improvements at a local property, with council being asked to approve a $5,000 contribution towards the project. This grant represents part of a broader initiative aimed at revitalizing and improving commercial and public properties within the township.
Furthermore, Brick mentioned the possibility of revising the CIP’s requirements to increase participation and maximize the program’s impact. Proposed changes include adjustments to the geographic scope of the program, prompted by new legislative opportunities that allow for expanded eligibility. These potential revisions are expected to enhance the program’s effectiveness starting with the 2025 application intake.
Deputy Mayor Mike Sholdice inquired about the funding specifics, particularly the portion contributed by the county. The discussion clarified that approximately 50% of the costs are covered by county funds, emphasizing a collaborative funding effort. This collaboration underscores a shared commitment between local and county levels of government to foster economic development and community improvement.
The meeting also addressed the existence of excess funds in the signage improvement grant, a component of the CIP, which remains available for application until September 30, 2024.
As the discussion wrapped up, council voted on a motion to approve funding for the project. Councillor Choi moved the motion, and Councillor McGill seconded it. The motion passed unanimously, affirming the council's commitment to enhancing the township's infrastructure through the Community Improvement Plan.
David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Middlesex Banner
