Chatham-Kent will continue looking for a buyer to operate the former CSX rail line.
Council approved a staff recommendation to look for someone to buy the assets of the rail line to support the continued operations of the rail line.
Stuart McFadden, deputy director for economic development services, said Canadian Pacific Rail has put up $3.2 million and is allowing Chatham-Kent to seek a buyer for the assets.
“CP has been a great partner in this from the beginning,” he said. “They are very supportive of continued operation. They are not against someone operating this rail line.
McFadden said this is a good investment for CP.
“They value the assets anywhere to $6.2 million,” he said.
McFadden said Chatham-Kent has had discussions with organizations that are interested in taking it over.
“We’d likely be able to sell the whole thing … then we are out of the rail business altogether,” McFadden said.
Council also approved a recommendation to loan WDC Rail, the independent business unit created by the Municipality to be the holder of the rail asset, $1 million for the purchase of the CSX rail line between Wallaceburg and Chatham.
This loan is fulfill to commitment to purchase the CSX rail line. The rail line is set to have no service by Oct. 6, if a deal isn’t completed.
Also discussed at council Sept. 23:
McNaughton Parking – Council deferred a report to restrict parking on McNaughton Avenue West to the Oct. 7 council meeting.
East Kent Counc. Jim Brown made a successful motion to change the date.
“I don’t think we have all the information,” Brown said. “This is going to greatly affect a lot of people. I think there are some people that don’t even know what is going on.”
Staff is recommending no parking along the Chatham street between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., Monday to Friday, except holidays, with no parking at anytime at various intersections along the street.
St. Clair Street – Council awarded a $2.4-million tender to Huron Construction for the reconstruction of St. Clair Street in Chatham.
Thomas Kelly, general manager of infrastructure and engineering, said they are hoping to complete the work by winter.
The project will run from McNaughton Avenue West to the Third Street Bridge.
Wallaceburg Walking Bridge – Council approved a request by Wallaceburg Coun. Jeff Wesley for staff to prepare a public consultation meeting with various stakeholders about the Wallaceburg walking bridge.
