Lakeshore Council greenlights Hydro One partnership projects in Comber
By: Shazia Nazir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
In a significant step forward for community development, the Lakeshore Council has given the green light to the inaugural series of projects in Comber, marking the commencement of the Hydro One Community Support Agreement inked in 2023.
During the latest council session, officials also tasked the administration with collaborating alongside the Comber Agricultural Society to explore enhancements to the Comber Fairgrounds, with a comprehensive report slated for review. Additionally, Lakeshore’s administrative team will join forces with Hydro One to ensure proper acknowledgment of project contributions, underscoring the ongoing alliance between the entities.
The roots of this collaboration trace back to August 2023 when Lakeshore entered into a transformative Community Support Agreement with Hydro One, earmarking a staggering $8 million for localized investments, with a notable $5.8 million designated for bolstering culture and recreation initiatives. This strategic pact forms part of Hydro One’s broader transmission expansion endeavour to fortify the agri-food sector, foster economic prosperity, and advance the region’s commitment to clean energy.
Mayor Tracey Bailey, expressing gratitude on behalf of the council, emphasized the invaluable input from Comber residents in shaping the investment trajectory. “Community input is pivotal to our decision-making process, and the enthusiastic response from residents in the affected area has been truly heartening,” remarked Mayor Bailey. “We are elated to witness the fruition of these projects, emblematic of our enduring partnership with Hydro One.”
The slated projects encompass a diverse array of community enhancements, including the establishment of a new park with dedicated space for canine companions, the creation of a verdant parkette featuring seating areas, a gazebo, and lush foliage, as well as the modernization of Comber’s community signage network to streamline wayfinding. Other slated endeavours include the installation and refurbishment of sidewalks and trails, streetscape beautification along Main Street, the introduction of a pollinator garden in collaboration with local organizations, the deployment of digital signage to enhance public awareness of community events, upgrades to the Comber Community Centre, and a generous contribution of $5,000 towards the 2024 Comber Fair fireworks extravaganza.
