Message from the Mayor With two years left in our municipal election cycle, the recent provincial and federal elections have given us clarity on who we will be working with as we continue to implement our strategic plan. Having said this, as you well know, there is a great deal of uncertainty around the globe, and the future is likely to be challenging!
Aina DeViet, Mayor 519.666.0190 x 5234 deviet@middlesexcentre.ca www.middlesexcentre.ca The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), which supports municipal governments across the province, has researched the potential impacts of tariffs on Ontario’s economy and identified areas of cost increases we are likely to face in our municipalities. Typically, the largest category of municipal spending relates to capital projects – including, for example, infrastructure like roads, bridges, and municipal buildings – which require construction equipment and materials. “AMO estimates that tariffs will lead to a 2.1% increase in Ontario municipalities’ planned capital expenditure program, translating to an estimated $1.04 billion in increased costs over the next two years” (AMO website). This work to understand how tariffs will impact municipalities is happening at the same time as AMO advocates for the financial resources needed to help municipalities manage these new challenges. This year, Middlesex Centre’s budget for capital projects is $29.6 million. This includes everything from completing upgrades to the Ilderton Arena ($3.5 million) to connecting the community of Melrose to the Lake Huron Primary Water Supply System ($3.1 million) to preparing for improvements to stormwater management in Komoka ($2.7 million). The municipality prepares for these projects through multi-year budget forecasts and its long-range financial plan. Staff are already reviewing the possible effects of tariffs on our budget and what it might mean for future infrastructure projects. We also need to keep in mind the importance of maintaining our infrastructure. As outlined in our budget document, the positive relationship between improving municipal infrastructure and attracting businesses and residents, boosting the local economy, and bringing residents together is clear. On a lighter note, the days are noticeably warmer and longer, and our local and seasonal activities are getting underway! The Ilderton Market opens on June 7th, the annual Poplar Hill Picnic will take place on June 14th, Father’s Day on June 15th and National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21st. Take time to engage in learning, meet with your neighbours and friends, and celebrate with your family! Until next time,
Summer Flowers at Floral Temptations Ilderton and Area Villager Issue #46 June 2025 Your local community connector The 100% locally owned and produced Ilderton and Area Villager is published ten times a year with thousands delivered free to area residences, set out at local venues, and posted online at www.villagerpublications.com Publisher: Barb Botten P.O. Box 134, Lambeth Station Ontario N6P 1P9 Barb@villagerpublications.com 519-282-7262 Managing Editor & Advertising: Tami Martin Tami@villagerpublications.com 519-851-0961 All articles written by Tami Martin unless otherwise noted. Graphic Artist: Cathy Wood Copyright @ 2015 Villager Publications. All rights reserved. This magazine or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the Publisher. Information presented has been compiled from sources believed to be accurate at the time of printing however the Publisher assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions.
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Page 4 Ilderton and Area Villager • June 2025
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