Councillors here would like Wellington County councillors to re-think the implementation of revised development charges.
That resolution followed discussion late last month on the impact a proposed change to the county portion of development charges that could affect Minto residential and industrial development.
Councillors also reviewed correspondent from John Mohle, of Wellington Construction, who is encouraged by council’s consideration of lowering its own development charges. He also suggested that to reduce the disparity between the development in different regions of the county, all charges should be kept as low as possible.
His argument is that pro development areas could use the low rates to encourage more business and collect more revenue through county taxes and residential development charges.
Mohle wrote that he appreciates that local municipalities have some flexibility dealing with development charges.
Minto council then reviewed its resolution that the town request Wellington County “to engage in further consultation with local developers regarding the proposed increase in development charges; in particular industrial development charges.”
Further, councillors asked that the unique competitive environment in the north of the county be considered.
And instead of implementing the proposed charges this February, Minto asked that the county delay imposition of new rates until the current development charges bylaw expires in September.
Treasurer Gord Duff pointed out that the less collected through development charges, the less money can be put aside to address future development requirements.
Mayor David Anderson generally agreed with the resolution, but doubted the county would implement it.
“I can’t see a double standard for the north and the south,” Anderson said.
He also pointed out the idea was discussed when Wellington first considered implementing development charges, and it was turned down at that time.
Anderson also stated the proposed rates were those outlined in its consultant’s report.
Councillor Larry Agla contended that Minto is still having to compete with areas with few or zero development charges. He said the issue is glaring in Minto because it is next to Howick and North Perth, which have no industrial development charge.
“It is almost prohibitive to consider development,” he said.
