Why is Campbell Drive in McNab-Braeside a Township responsibility, and not a County Road?
The reasons are shrouded in history, but date back to 2015 when the Upper Tier downloaded the thoroughfare to the municipality, according to representative Scott Brum.
It is said that Campbell Drive is the only lower-tier operated road intersecting a four-lane series highway in Ontario.
Mayor Mark MacKenzie, who says the state of repair on the road should meet higher standards than the Township is obliged to meet, at prices it cannot afford- and things are only going to worsen, with both residential and industrial development planned along its shoulders.
Given those impending realities, Renfrew County doesn’t appear willing to rush into reembracing ownership of the road.
MacKenzie says a compelling case can be made to upload Campbell Drive.
The matter itself was on the Township agenda in response to an MTO reply suggesting the Township borrow the money to finance the required repairs to Campbell Drive.
The Mayor says trying to squeeze money from the MTO is difficult, and another course may be more practical.
Representatives agreed to give Staff direction to seek a delegation with Minister Kinga Surma at the upcoming AMO event.
The Association of Municipalities of Ontario Conference is slated for August 18th to 21st in Ottawa.
By Rick Stow
