For Immediate Release
Tuesday, February 25, 2025

Council Connect: Highlights from February 25, 2025, meetings of Council

Public Meeting of Council

Official Plan and Zoning By-Law Amendment, West Side of Malden Road, Maidstone Hamlet, Scheduling of a Public Meeting: The purpose of the meeting was for Council to hear public comment on  Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment applications for a 3.2 acre parcel of land situated on the west side of Malden Road, approximately 252 feet south of its intersection with North Talbot Road, 5881 Malden Road. These applications would facilitate the future creation of five single unit residential lots having frontage onto Malden Road.

Request to Consider Engineer's Report - J.C. Smith and McPherson Drains: The purpose of the meeting was for Council to hear public comments from any affected landowners on the proposed drainage works, as set out in the drainage report filed by Tony Peralta, Drainage Engineer, N.J. Peralta Engineering Ltd, dated August 2, 2024 for the J.C. Smith and McPherson Drains. This Drainage Report provides for the improvements to the Drains including the restoration of the Drains to design specifications, and the removal, repair (including cleaning) and replacement of several culverts along with future maintenance provisions for the Drains. 

Regular Meeting of Council

2024 Essex County Library Year in Review and 2025 Initiatives: Council received a presentation from the Essex County Library highlighting their successes in 2024, including the grand reopening the Cada Library in Tecumseh and an increase in program attendance. The presentation outlined some goals and objectives for 2025, including expanding events, developing new partnerships and reaching new audiences.

2024 Year End Permit Report:  The 2024 Year-End Building Permit Report for Tecumseh highlights a significant increase in construction activity throughout the year. The total value of construction projects reached $87.1 million, representing an 87% increase from 2023. This growth was driven by several major projects, including the development of a Marriott Towne Place Suites hotel, new multi-unit residential buildings on Lesperance Road, and various industrial developments. The number of building permits issued also saw a substantial rise, with 308 permits granted in 2024, a 36% increase from the previous year. Residential construction was particularly strong, with 28 new dwelling units approved, compared to only 11 in 2023. The town issued 14 single-family home permits, 4 multi-residential permits, and 71 residential improvement permits.  Despite the shortfall in permit fee revenue, the department anticipates a year-end operating surplus of approximately $8,000, which would be transferred to the Building Reserve Fund. The Building Reserve Fund is currently in a deficit position of $397,000. However, given the strong development outlook for the town, this deficit position is expected to be corrected in the near future. Council received the report.

Manning Road Farm Lease – One Year Agreement:  The Town of Tecumseh owns 18 acres of farmland on Baseline Road, west of Manning Road. Since 2020, it has leased the land to Olinda Farms Inc. under a renewable Farm Lease Agreement. Following two extensions in 2021 and 2023, Olinda has requested another extension for the 2025 crop year. Administration recommended approving a one-year lease at a revised rate of $276.28 per acre, totaling $5,619.61 (including HST). By-Law 2025-022, which gives effect to the lease extension, was given first, second and final readings.

2024 Reporting for Town Traffic-Related Policies: Council received a report providing an overview of the requests received and processed under each Town Traffic-Related Policy in 2024 (Policy 123, 124, 125, 126), including inquiries for new Community Safety Zones (CSZs), speed complaints and four (4) locations where detailed analysis was conducted. Administration will include the recommended works arising from these reviews in the annual PWES Capital Works Plan. 

2024 Bridge and Culvert Needs Study Structures with Spans Greater than 3.0m:  The Town of Tecumseh must inspect all bridges and culverts over 3.0 meters every two years, as required by Ontario Regulation 104/97. In February 2024, Council approved the 2024 Bridge and Culvert Needs Study as part of the Town’s Capital Works Projects. Dillon Consulting Ltd. was retained for this study due to their long-standing experience with Tecumseh’s bridge assessments, having conducted similar studies since 2003. The 2024 study confirms that Tecumseh’s bridges and culverts are in good overall condition, with an average Bridge Condition Index (BCI) of 76.6. Recommended remediation for specific bridges contained within the 2024 Bridge and Culvert Needs Study will form the basis for prioritizing bridge projects in the Public Works & Engineering Services Five Year Capital Works Plan. Council received the report.

Expanding Housing Choices and Improving Affordability Housing Accelerator Fund: Initiative 1 – Four Units As-of-Right Proposed Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendments: Council received the report regarding proposed Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendments to the Tecumseh Official Plan and Tecumseh Zoning By-laws 1746, 2065 and 85-18, which would allow a third ARU on existing and new single unit detached lots (resulting in a total of four residential units) located in the Town’s urban neighbourhoods that are: of sufficient frontage (minimum 80 feet), capable of providing the required off-street parking and driveways and able to maintain appropriate landscaped open space areas in front yards.  The extended zoning permission would broaden housing choices and improve affordability in Tecumseh, while maintaining the look and feel of existing and new low-density neighbourhoods. Council approved scheduling of a public meeting, to be held on Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at 4:30 p.m., in accordance with the Planning Act to consider the proposed amendments.

Expanding Housing Choices and Improving Affordability Tecumseh Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) February 2025 Status Update: Council received a report providing status updates for the Town’s Housing Initiatives.  Collectively, nine initiatives funded by HAF are intended to accelerate the delivery of much needed new housing in Tecumseh, and to contribute to positive long-term changes that will broaden housing choices and improve affordability in both the rental and ownership market. Individual work plans for all nine initiatives were established in the HAF Agreement to ensure that key tasks are completed in a timely and cost-effective manner.  For most of the HAF initiatives, the background research, staff reports and discussion papers are complete and public meetings scheduled. Approval of initiatives relating to number of dwelling units per lot, mid-density housing and mixed use intensification, new parking  space provisions, and affordable housing incentives in the Town’s main street area will be sought in March.  An Additional Residential Unit Information Kit that was endorsed by Council in 2024. The detailed summary of HAF initiatives updates can be found here.

Enbridge Franchise Agreement Renewal: The Town of Tecumseh’s franchise agreement with Enbridge Gas Inc., initially established in 2004, expired in March 2024 and is now on a month-to-month basis. Enbridge, which serves approximately 9,967 customers in Tecumseh, has proposed a 20-year renewal under the Ontario Energy Board’s (OEB) 2000 Model Franchise Agreement. This agreement grants Enbridge rights to install, maintain, and relocate gas infrastructure within the Town’s highways, with cost-sharing provisions for relocations. It also outlines insurance requirements, municipal approvals for construction, and adherence to OEB-mandated standards. The OEB requires municipal consent for franchise agreements but can approve them without it if necessary. Past municipal challenges to modify cost-sharing provisions, such as Leamington’s 2022 appeal, have been denied by both the OEB and Ontario courts. Given these precedents, Tecumseh’s administration recommends approving the renewal without modifications. The agreement follows established provincial guidelines, ensuring consistency across Ontario municipalities. Council’s approval will enable Enbridge to proceed with its application to the OEB for final authorization.

Dangerous Dog Designation Appeal: The Town of Tecumseh’s Dog Control By-Law regulates the keeping of dogs and addresses dangerous dogs as required. Following a complaint and investigation by Essex County Animal Control, a dog was designated as dangerous. The owners were notified on November 20, 2024, and submitted an appeal on November 21, 2024. Appeals are to be determined by Town Council. Due to logistical challenges, Council allowed the appeal to be heard through written submissions instead of a special meeting. Based on the written submissions of the parties, the Town’s Animal Control Officer recommended that the dog remain designated as dangerous and, after six months to a year, the owners could request a reassessment by a certified dog behaviourist to potentially remove the designation. Until then, the dog must remain confined or muzzled when outside. Council supported the ACO’s recommendations.

Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund Direct Delivery Stream Second Application East Townline Drain and the Manning Road Secondary Plan Area Regional Stormwater Infrastructure: The Government of Canada’s 2024 Budget established the $6 billion Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund (CHIF) to support water, wastewater, stormwater, and solid-waste infrastructure projects that enable new housing development. The Town of Tecumseh submitted its first CHIF application on January 7, 2025, for the Gouin Stormwater Management Pond and Pump Station but has not yet received a response. As its second application, the Town is proposing the East Townline Drain and Manning Road Secondary Plan Area (MRSPA) Regional Stormwater Infrastructure project. This initiative includes three stormwater ponds, municipal drain enclosures, and trunk storm sewers to prevent flooding and support planned housing development in MRSPA. The project is essential to advancing Tecumseh’s housing goals, as it would enable the construction of 3,300 new residential units, increasing the Town’s housing supply by 33%. Council received the report and authorized Administration to apply for a second project to receive federal funding under the Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund.

Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program -Health and Safety Water Funding Stream:  The Ontario government has launched the Health and Safety Water Funding Stream under the $1 billion Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program (MHIP), allocating $175 million to help municipalities and First Nations improve core water infrastructure. The Town of Tecumseh is applying for funding to support the East Townline Drain and Manning Road Secondary Plan Area (MRSPA) Regional Stormwater Infrastructure. This project includes stormwater ponds, municipal drain enclosures, and trunk storm sewers to prevent flooding as well as support planned residential development. A 2024 technical report by Landmark Engineers Inc. confirms the project's importance in managing stormwater for existing and future developments. If funded, the project will enhance flood protection, promote sustainable growth, and align with provincial housing and infrastructure priorities. Council received the report, and authorized Administration to apply for the grant.

Centennial – Woodridge Watermain Replacement – Tender Award: Council awarded the tender for the Centennial – Woodridge Watermain Replacement in the amount of $3,878,115 excluding HST to SheaRock Construction Group Inc. It is anticipated that construction will be completed by the end of 2025. The total project cost is under the $4,562,000 budget by $45,900. The Town received funding for this project through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program - Green Stream Stage II 2021 Intake (ICIP) in the amount of $2,566,550. Therefore, the Town’s net cost for the project is anticipated to be $1,549,550.

Tecumseh Hamlet Secondary Plan Area Northwest Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Project Tender Award: Council awarded the tender for the Tecumseh Hamlet Secondary Plan Area – Northwest Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Project in the amount of $12,283,284 excluding HST, to Rudak Excavating Inc. The Total Project Costs for the Tecumseh Hamlet Secondary Plan Area – Northwest Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Project is $14,858,469 which will be funded through the Provincial Housing Enabling Water Systems Fund in the amount of $9,880,391 and Town Reserves in the amount of $4,978,078.

Drinking Water Quality Management System Operation Plan 2025 Update: Council received the 2025 update to the Drinking Water Quality Management System (DWQMS) Operational Plan and formally endorsed it. The plan aligns with provincial regulations established after the 2000 Walkerton water crisis, which led to stricter drinking water protections under the Safe Drinking Water Act and Clean Water Act. As required by law, Tecumseh must review and update its DWQMS annually to ensure long-term sustainability, proper infrastructure maintenance, and risk mitigation strategies, including system security and climate change impacts. Updates are informed by staff recommendations, audits, inspections, and regulatory changes, with final approval by the Management Review Committee, which includes senior municipal officials. This process supports continuous improvement and ensures compliance with provincial drinking water safety standards.

Mulberry Drive Trunk Watermain Emergency Repairs: In January 2025, Town Staff identified a failure in the air relief valve and leaking couplings on the 600mm trunk watermain on Mulberry Drive, a key component of Tecumseh’s water distribution system. The inability to isolate the affected area due to inoperable gate valves posed a significant risk to system control and emergency response. This trunk watermain supplies approximately 43% of the Town’s annual potable water and will also serve the Tecumseh Hamlet Secondary Plan Area. To address the issue, Green Infrastructures Partners (GIP) Inc. has been retained for $128,600 (excluding HST) to complete emergency repairs, including valve and coupling replacements. The project budget is estimated at $150,000, funded through the Watermain Reserve Fund, with financial updates to be provided in future reports to Council. The report and budget allocation of $150,000 from the Watermain Reserve Fund were approved by Council.   

Community Safety – 2024 Year In Review:  Council received the 2024 Community Safety Year in Review report for Tecumseh, highlighting work of the Community Safety Department, which includes fire services and by-law enforcement.

·      Emergency Calls: The department handled 997 service calls, a 39% increase over the three-year average. Emergency calls (419 total) rose by 12%, with medical resuscitations increasing the most (51% rise).

·      Fire Prevention: There were 227 fire safety inspections, and over 91% had code violations. Most resulted in voluntary compliance and fewer than 15  resulted in fines and one business closure due to the level of risk assessed.

·      Public Education: The department engaged in 263 fire safety events, including school visits, community presentations, and smoke alarm checks.

·      Recruitment & Training: Staff turnover remained high, particularly at Fire Station 2, with new firefighters recruited and trained. Collaboration with local organizations provided essential training resources.

·      By-Law Enforcement: There were 578 complaints, mostly about property maintenance, zoning & drainage, and animals. This marks a 68% increase over previous years.

·      Emergency Preparedness: Over 9,400 residents were encouraged to register for emergency alerts, and staff received training in incident management.

PWES-2025-17, 2025-2029 Public Works & Engineering Services Five-Year Capital Works: The 2025-2029 Public Works & Engineering Services Five-Year Capital Works Plan outlines infrastructure investments for the Town of Tecumseh. The 2025 budget includes 41 projects totaling $111 million, with $103 million previously allocated and $8 million newly requested. Key initiatives focus on stormwater management, road improvements, water and wastewater services, and active transportation enhancements. Major projects include:  the Scully/St. Mark’s and PJ Cecile Storm Pump Stations,  the Lesperance Trail extension from County Road 22 to County Road 42, water and wastewater trunk services to the Tecumseh Hamlet Secondary Plan area, watermain replacements including Brouillette Court and Centennial Drive/Woodbridge Drive,   a new right-turn lane at Lesperance Road & County Road 22, construction of the new Lesperance Road Trail (Riverside Drive to First Street), Little River Boulevard Trail (Tecumseh/Windsor Boundary to Lesperance Road) and Lesperance Road Rehabilitation (McNorton Street to First Street),  and  various pedestrian and cycling improvements, including the County Wide Active Transportation Study (CWATS) projects. Council approved the 2025 PWES Five-Year Capital Plan.  

Next Regular Meeting: The next regular meeting of Council is March 11, 2025. The meeting is scheduled to be held electronically. The agenda and livestream will be available on the Town’s website. Follow the Town of Tecumseh on Facebook and X for news and the latest information.