Written By David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

ADELAIDE METCALFE - Council approved the 2025 Community Improvement Plan (CIP) during its January 13 meeting, incorporating revisions aimed at increasing participation and aligning the program with community needs. The initiative, first launched in 2022, provides financial incentives to encourage private investment and revitalization across the township.
CAO Morgan Calvert presented an overview of the CIP’s annual review and outlined plans for the 2025 program. He highlighted that, despite interest in 2024, the township received no completed applications. “We were really close just before the new year, but unfortunately, the applicant wasn’t able to complete their application,” Calvert explained. The open-intake system used last year, which allowed submissions at any time, was described as “somewhat random and chaotic.”
To address these challenges, the township will implement a deadline-driven application process in 2025. Applications will be accepted starting February 1, with a deadline of April 30, extendable to May 30 if no submissions are received. The approach aims to streamline administration and encourage timely participation from applicants.
Council also approved activating several grant programs, including those focused on countryside, façade and signage improvements, site beautification, accessibility, and the conversion, expansion, and redevelopment program. This last program, previously inactive, was added based on feedback from local businesses.
Councillor Garett Kingma expressed support for the changes, noting the benefits of the new timeline. He also suggested a more targeted approach for future iterations of the program, focusing on Centre Road. “We can demonstrate that we’re really focused on this crown jewel of our assessment base, and I think this program could help deliver that,” Kingma said. However, Councillor Arend Noordhof raised concerns about narrowing the scope, emphasizing the importance of equitable access for all areas of the township.
The program’s funding for 2025 is set at $10,000, with potential reimbursement of 50% through Middlesex County’s CIP Implementation Program, pending budget approval. Calvert noted the added value this funding could bring, allowing municipal dollars to go further.
Marketing efforts to promote the program will include social media, newsletters, and direct engagement with businesses, ensuring the community is well-informed about available opportunities. The township aims to increase program utilization by responding to feedback and refining its offerings.