Chatham-Kent Mayor Darrin Canniff says he is optimistic about the new year, with a number of new housing and recreation projects planned for 2023.
"We are set for success," the mayor said. "We have a lot of job opportunities."
From job announcements to hundreds of building permits issued over the past year, Canniff said the groundwork has been laid for the new year.
"I believe Chatham-Kent is going to take off," he said.
In December, the Barry Callebaut chocolate factory announced a $95 million ($70 million USD) investment at its Chatham facility, which will generate 300 jobs and bring the total investment to $100 million (USD) since 2018.
Noting the former Navistar site on Richmond Street in Chatham, Canniff said the property has generated a lot of interest.
"We will see some great things happen there," he said. "Many commercial businesses find Chatham attractive now too because we are a growing community, so there is that to look forward to as well."
Other investments are also underway, with nearly ten hectares sold between the Bloomfield and Blenheim business parks.
"The Downtown Chatham Centre is another exciting project to look forward to," he said. "Phases one and two will be dealt with in the new year and that is certainly one of the bigger investments that the municipality has made since amalgamation."
The multi-million dollar proposal would include housing a new city hall, a public library, a museum, and a cultural centre.
The second phase would include a 4,000-seat entertainment complex with an arena, to be added to the Downtown Chatham Centre.
Residents can expect several opportunities for public input as talks move forward in the new year, according to Canniff.
"That's just one example of the exciting projects," he said.
The rebuilding of Wheatley remains a priority heading into the new year.
"The explosion has been a big challenge," said Canniff. "Fortunately, we are now in the phase of rebuilding and I believe we can make Wheatley a better place it was pre-explosion with the help 0f provincial government, businesses, and the municipality stepping up."
According to the municipality, the cost of dealing with the explosion's aftermath has totalled $5.2 million. That amount will fall on the municipality if no senior government funding is forthcoming.
Another focus heading into 2023, is the beautification of Chatham-Kent.
Municipal council recently approved a public art policy, which will start to be adopted in the new year.
"We want to see more art in the community," said Canniff. "There is a need in the community for this."
The community can also expect to hear more about an indoor tennis court, an outdoor ice rink, and more pickleball courts.
As for events, the mayor said the municipality has received a record amount of applications for 2023.
"All of the events that are done by volunteers are what makes Chatham-Kent an amazing place," he said. "It's important we get out and support those as a community. We need to come together to make things happen."