Funding capital projects in the coming year may be difficult due to additional cutbacks from the province, Mapleton council heard on Nov. 26.
CAO Patty Sinnamon told council to expect a reduction of $189,000 in funding through the province’s Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund (OMPF), which may result in a reduction in the service level the township is able to provide.
The cuts are in addition to an $85,000 cut in OMPF funding to the municipality in 2013, bringing Mapleton’s anticipated share of the OMPF allocation for 2014 down to $1,049,900.
Public works update
Four bridges in Mapleton Township received much-needed structural repairs in 2013, public works director Larry Lynch told council on Nov. 26.
He also recommended guardrails be constructed on two additional bridges located on Wellington Road 11 due to dangerous drops on either side of the road. Lynch said the 100m of guardrail required could easily be installed this year, increasing safety during the winter driving season. The initial bridge repair project was completed $155,000 under budget.
Council received the proposal for information, but has yet to decide if the surplus will be spent on further restoration or be added to the 2014 budget.
Wind Turbine
Construction of a single 0.5 megawatt turbine wind farm may soon be given the go ahead Mapleton council heard on Nov 26. The closest neighbour to the planning site at Lot 2, Concession 13 is 700 metres away, well beyond the required distance, said CAO Patty Sinnamon.
A final draft agreement will be presented to council following the creation of a development and road access agreement with the township and final approval from the Ministry of Environment, she said.
