A debate broke out in Thorold City council last night over a service agreement of a multi-use path built by the region, that two councilors say is a bad deal for the taxpayers.
In 2015, Thorold agreed to support the region’s construction of a multi-use path along the Merrittville Highway corridor from Sir Isaac Brock Way onto Decew road.
Recently, the trail has been extended through the new Civic Park across the front of the Niagara Region HQ, and east through the Hwy 406 corridor.
A service agreement between the city and the region states that Thorold will be responsible for the regular winter upkeep and trail maintenance, costing taxpayers roughly $5,000 annually.
“I got a sick feeling in my stomach because it seems that once again, Thorold taxpayers are getting the short end of the stick,” said coun. Carmen DeRose, adding he had read over the agreement several times and asked if the city had sought legal counsel before entering into the agreement, which he learned it had not.
Fellow coun. Anthony Longo said he had a hard time believing that the trail maintenance would not end up costing the city even more and that the trail technically should fall under the region's responsibility.
“I think we are taking on a big piece of infrastructure, and I can’t believe it will only cost us this much,” said Longo.
The trail will eventually be extended along the south side of St. David’s Road to Collier Road (Fall 2020) and then to Front Street (Summer 2022).
Council ended up passing the service agreement despite the protests after the remaining councilors voted in favor.
One of the proponents, coun. John Kenny said the opponents of the agreement should ‘quit grandstanding’.
“Let’s worry about this winter. We spent all that money and then we’re not going to maintain it? Come on, people!” Kenny stated.
The costs will be included in next year’s operating budget.
