FERGUS – For those who came out – and there were more than 100 – the township open house on Oct. 21 provided an opportunity to learn about current initiatives and to weigh in on future projects.
Information tables were set around the room inside the Centre Wellington Community Sportsplex in broad categories: “involve,” where public feedback is sought, and “inform,” where residents could ask about a number of projects/initiatives.
The township is seeking feedback on four key initiatives: the 2026 budget, a public transit feasibility study, a municipal accommodation tax, and revitalization of Confederation Park in Fergus. All the surveys are available at connectcw.ca.
As the evening progressed, more and more coloured dots appeared on maps of Fergus and Elora, representing destinations the public would like served by public transit.
Shopping areas in north and south Fergus seemed popular destinations, as well as Guelph and Waterloo.
Managing director of infrastructure services Colin Baker stood guard at this station, which seemed widely popular with those who attended.
Starting a public transit system is no small task and Baker said the township wants to get it right.
“The first step is getting a strategy,” he said.
“Then there’s budget implications and the governance question. But we have to know what makes sense for this community.”
He expressed hope that many people will fill out the survey.
He said the township started a shuttle service a few years ago to alleviate parking concerns in Elora and it’s proven to be popular with tourists and residents alike, as the shuttle now travels between Fergus and Elora every weekend in the summer.
“Thirty-five per cent of shuttle riders were local,” Baker said, adding this indicates a strong body of potential transit users.
CAO Dan Wilson was fielding questions at a table about the municipal accommodation tax, a payment that will be charged at hotels, motels and short-term rentals.
Wilson said the tax usually ranges from 3 to 6% and could be used by the municipality for road repairs, parking solutions,and beautification projects in the downtowns, although the exact policies, procedures and end uses of the funds have not yet been determined.
There’s also a survey on the 2026 budget and on how to revitalize Confederation Park. Staff was also on hand to talk about other initiatives.
Proposed reconstruction projects on Smith Street and Douglas Crescent seemed popular as clusters of people gathered around those centres.
Economic development manager George Borovilos, said interest in land at the Fergus Business Park is strong – “It’s the economy that’s weak.”
There are 26 serviced lots for sale and Borovilos said there has been a lot of interest.
“It’s a big outlay though; a big decision for a small- or medium-sized business to decide to stop renting and build their own place,” he said.
Between architects, development charges, planning fees and permits, it’s likely around $2 million – “and you don’t have shovels in the ground yet. I understand why business owners are nervous.”
Visitors at the open house were also interested in the new toboggan hill and outdoor skating rink programs, the water meter replacement program, and the termite management program.
There was also interest and a little fanfare when Kathleen Devine, senior municipal relations manager with the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Association, handed a cheque for $2.77 million to councillors – the township’s share of revenue from the Elements Casino for the 2024-25 fiscal year.
Through the municipality contribution agreement, the township has received a total of $45 million from the OLG since 2003, when the casino first opened.
OLG funds are used to support infrastructure upgrades, community programs, arts and culture and recreational programs. In 2024, OLG funds went to:
- Eighth Line West from Sideroad 11 to Wellington Road 17;
- St. David St. North, from St. Andrew to Edinburgh;
- East Mill Street, from Metcalfe to Melville; and
- health care professionals recruitment.
“We see the impact of these funds all around us,” said councillor Denis Craddock, speaking on behalf of Mayor Shawn Watters, who wasn’t able to attend the open house.
Devine said the sizeable cheque is a reminder “of the benefit of hosting a casino in the community.
“How that money is allocated is to make life better for all of you.”
Township surveys can be found at connectcw.ca.
