An attempt by the Town of Amherstburg to get the County of Essex to take responsibility for the control of phragmites has been rejected.
Earlier this year Amherstburg Mayor Michael Prue brought forth a motion that would see the upper-tier county government take over combating the invasive species. His motion, which at the time was seconded by Tecumseh Mayor Gary McNamara, was put off to the recent county council meeting which was held last Wednesday.
“After review and having conversation with our local environmental folks I withdraw my support of this motion,” said McNamara.
McNamara went on to say that controlling phragmites should remain something that is done by each of the seven lower-tier municipalities. Several other councillors agreed with McNamara.
While McNamara withdrew his support of Prue’s motion, Amherstburg Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb stepped in to second it.
“We feel we have a robust program and would like to continue the status quo,” said Essex Deputy Mayor Rob Shepley.
Speaking on behalf of himself as well as Mayor Tracey Bailey, Lakeshore Deputy Mayor Kirk Walstedt said that their public works department does a good job spraying and controlling the species.
LaSalle Mayor Crystal Meloche agreed that it should be a local responsibility and that LaSalle is willing to work with the Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) and consult with the county when needed.
“I think it is good we have conversation about phragmites. It’s the first time we have gone back to the locals and started the conversation,” said Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy.
The county along with ERCA have a working group in place and Bondy said that perhaps in the future more money could be allocated for the control of phragmites.
Phragmites is an invasive grass that can grow several meters in height. It can cause significant damage and affect drainage.
Back on February 5, Essex County’s director of infrastructure and planning services Allan Botham gave a report to county council. He said that, at the time, several local municipalities actively manage and budget for phragmites.
Botham also indicated that ERCA is leading a local Nature Conservancy of Canada funded initiative.
County council rejects Amherstburg’s request to control phragmites
By Fred Groves
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