Proposed increases to water and wastewater development charges will stymie agricultural growth in Chatham-Kent, say leaders within the greenhouse industry.
The increase, recommended by C-K's Public Utilities Commission, were presented to council in a detailed report at the March 4 council meeting. A 10-year plan that will see $590 million in capital costs was outlined. If the changes are approved, it means C-K would be able to recoup a total of $390 million of the infrastructure development by way of the new charges.
However, an increase of nearly 2,000 per cent over three years for the greenhouse industry isn't acceptable, according to Cedarline Greenhouses president Greg Devries. The long-time greenhouse operator was among those who made deputations at the meeting, pointing out the major contribution local greenhouse growers make to C-K's economy.
"For every acre of greenhouse there are seven to eight jobs created," Devries said, adding his 106-acre operation growing sweet bell peppers and tomatoes located in Chatham and outside Dresden employs more than 300 people.
Read more at chathamvoice.com