County Transfers EV Charging Stations to Local Municipalities

Local Journalism Initiative

July 11, 2024 at 11:01 a.m.·2 min read

MIDDLESEX COUNTY - During the Middlesex County council meeting on June 26, significant progress was made in sustainable infrastructure with the transfer of ownership of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations to local municipalities. This decision follows the successful implementation of the EV charging stations funded by the Ontario Southwest Tourism Relief Fund, a federal initiative aimed at bolstering regional tourism and infrastructure.

Cara Finn, the Director of Economic Development for Middlesex County, presented the report on the transfer during the council meeting. She detailed the origins of the project, which began in April 2022 when Middlesex County's Department of Economic Development and Tourism applied for and secured $100,000 from the federal tourism relief fund. The fund aimed to support several projects, one of which was the acquisition and installation of EV charging stations across the county.

The project saw the installation of four Level-2 EV charging stations at strategic locations: Two stations at the Glencoe Municipal Building in Southwest Middlesex; one station in the Village of Newbury; and one station at Kerwood Park in Adelaide-Metcalfe. These locations were selected in collaboration with local municipalities to ensure optimal placement for both residents and visitors.

Finn emphasized that the Ontario Southwest Tourism Relief Fund covered 100% of the $39,750 cost for the EV charging stations, including both equipment and installation. With the project now complete and all reporting obligations fulfilled, the county is set to transfer ownership of these stations to the respective municipalities. This transfer will grant local governments full control over the charging stations, including the authority to set and collect usage fees.

Importantly, there are no additional financial implications for Middlesex County. The entire cost was covered by the non-repayable federal contribution received in 2022.

Warden Aina DeViet facilitated the discussion and subsequent decision-making process. With no objections or questions raised by the council members, the motion to transfer ownership was moved by Councillor Michelle Smibert and seconded by Councillor Cathy Burghardt-Jesson. The motion was unanimously approved.

As the local municipalities assume control over the EV charging stations, they are poised to enhance their local infrastructure, promote sustainable transportation, and potentially attract more visitors.

With the groundwork laid by Middlesex County, the local municipalities now have the opportunity to build on this foundation and continue promoting the adoption of electric vehicles, ultimately fostering a greener future for the region.

David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Middlesex Banner

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