Hanover and West Grey say they are exploring a possible boundary adjustment to support long-term economic growth.
It would see the transfer of about 1,600 acres of land transferred from West Grey to Hanover.
In exchange for the transfer of lands, Hanover would pay West Grey $10 million over a period of 20 years at $500,00 a year.
There is a public meeting about it coming up on Wednesday, November 19th at the Elmwood Community Centre at 6:30 p.m.
The communities say in a joint release, the proposed ‘mutual prosperity’ boundary adjustment would encourage more investment and economic opportunities, including new employment options, more housing, and increased tax assessment.
An information page on West Grey’s website says by adding the land to Hanover, it gives the Town the ability to make planning decisions, including when infrastructure will be extended and how development can be phased over the coming decades.
Without a boundary adjustment, they say Hanover will run out of residential, commercial and employment lands by 2046.
West Grey Mayor Kevin Eccles says in a statement, “There have been frank discussions over the past year to ensure we are collectively considering the impact of any recommended changes for the long-term sustainability of our communities,” adding, “Both municipalities recognize the potential for growth in this area of the County and we’ve worked together to recommend an equitable solution that will benefit both municipalities well into the future.”
Hanover Mayor Sue Paterson says, “Our region is an attractive place to live and do business. The Hanover area has tremendous pressure to grow, but a lack of available land for development has stalled major progress,” adding, “Thanks to forward-looking collaboration with West Grey, we have identified a mutually beneficial path forward that can help unlock the economic power of this area for the benefit of Grey County residents and businesses for generations.”