Civil Municipal - June 2024

don’t just say yes or no—we ask, ‘How can we assist you?’ Our team is geared towards facilitation, not obstruction,” explains the mayor. Solid partnerships and governmental support bolster this approach to streamline and encourage residential projects. Reflecting on government collaboration, Mayor Deschamps praises the support from higher levels of government, noting their pivotal role in fostering local development initiatives.“Our MPP Steve Clark, continues to deliver for us and the region repeatedly and MP Francis Drouin is a huge supporter of local agriculture and Port; along with MP Michael Barrett.” Their support is crucial as we navigate the complexities of development in our area,” he adds. This synergy among governmental layers enhances the township’s ability to undertake significant housing initiatives. Addressing specific projects, Mayor Deschamps details the progress in residential development.“We have several subdivisions ready or near-ready for construction. This includes two major subdivisions in Cardinal nearing the shovel-ready stage and one in the preliminary design stage in Spencerville ,” he states. Despite some setbacks with federal funding initiatives, the township remains undeterred, actively pursuing provincial opportunities to accelerate housing development. INNOVATING HOUSING SOLUTIONS As Edwardsburgh/Cardinal grapples with the broader housing challenges that face many North American communities, the township is adopting innovative strategies to diversify its housing stock and address affordability issues. Mayor Deschamps explains the township’s flexible approach to residential 37 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 06 EDWARDSBURGH/CARDINAL , ON