A New Community Improvement Plan for TWPEC

Edwardsburgh Cardinal – The Township of Edwardsburgh Cardinal has engaged NPG Planning Solutions and Tim Welch Consulting Inc. to review our existing Community Improvement Plans (CIPs) and help shape programs that:

• Support downtown revitalization
• Encourage investment in our communities
• Introduce incentives to provide affordable and attainable housing.

We’re grateful to Community Futures Grenville for supporting this project and helping us enhance engagement opportunities with our residents and stakeholders.

CIP process

A draft CIP is now available. You can review this early draft online as part of Step 5 in the CIP process. This draft is scheduled to be presented to Council at their August 25, 2025 meeting. Following Council’s review, a Public Meeting will be scheduled to invite formal feedback from residents and stakeholders.

Learn about each step of the process and stay updated on our progress at: https://www.twpec.ca/news/posts/a-new-community-improvement-plan-for-twpec/

What is a Community Improvement Plan?

A CIP is a tool municipalities can use under Ontario’s Planning Act to promote improvements in their communities. It allows municipalities to offer financial incentives to stimulate private investments and support community priorities such as:

• Revitalizing downtowns
• Encouraging the creation of affordable and attainable housing
• Preserving heritage buildings
• Improving public spaces and accessibility

Since 2012, our Township has had two CIPs – one for the Village of Cardinal and one for the Village of Spencerville – focused mainly on facade improvements, property upgrades, and supporting mixed-use downtown development. Now, with changing needs and growing housing pressures, it’s time for an update.

Why are we updating the CIP?

While our community continues to grow, there are critical needs to address:

• Housing: There’s a shortage of smaller, more affordable housing options for seniors, young families, and workers.
• Economic development: Supporting businesses, tourism, and investment remains a priority.
• Downtown renewal: Continues investment is needed to maintain vibrant, attractive village cores.

This update supports our 2024-2028 Strategic Plan,  which identifies the need to review and expand our Community Improvement Plan to help increase affordable housing options and create a more livable community.

For more information reach out to our Community Development Coordinator if you have any questions about this process or the new CIP.