Council looking to commit additional $40,000 to Erin Chamber of Commerce

ERIN ‒ Council has renewed its promises to help fund the Erin Chamber of Commerce's efforts to support businesses throughout wastewater construction now and into the new year. 

Representing the Erin Chamber of Commerce during its delegation to council on Thursday, chair Ann Shanahan, said the group invested heavily in promotional campaigns throughout the year with the understanding that the promised funds would cover ongoing signs, wares, and events.

Council dedicated $41,000 from the Economic Development Reserve to the group in March but the funds have yet to be released. 

"I know it seems off the cuff to just say 'Can we have $41,000?' But we're not actually asking for that," said Shanahan. "We're asking for the money to be released so that we can submit these bills (and) get these people paid." 

Acting CAO Jim Sawkins said he supported releasing the funds as long as the group can prove the expenditures are specifically geared towards Dig Erin and the construction project. 

"There's no playbook for this so I applaud you for just forging ahead," said Coun. Cathy Aylard. "Now we can establish some protocol about how to fulfill these expenses."

Erin's Chamber of Commerce also requested an additional $40,000 so it can continue supporting local businesses during the wastewater construction in 2024. 

"The work you've done is really important, it's really on target with where we're going as a community that is pivoting as we go through our construction," said Coun. Bridget Ryan. "The Discover Erin site is creating a lot of current and good information to people coming to our town and people living here...so I think that's an excellent use of funds as well." 

Construction on Erin’s $200 million wastewater plant began earlier this year and is expected to last until October 2024.

Council moved to include $40,000 in the first draft of the 2024 budget to cover similar expenses in the new year. 

Isabel Buckmaster is the Local Journalism Initiative reporter for GuelphToday. LJI is a federally-funded program.