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Back to SearchOFFICE OF THE MAYOR
Strategic Expansion of Our Industrial Park
Thursday, March 20th, 2025
Dear residents,
As Council continues to guide the growth of Russell Township, I want to take this opportunity to discuss the strategic expansion of our industrial park. Located at the northern edge of our municipality by exit 88 off Highway 417, this area hosts a growing and diverse mix of commercial and industrial businesses, forming an integral part of our economic strategy. Recognizing some of the concerns that have been raised about its expansion, particularly its potential impact on agricultural land, it's important to understand how this development collectively benefits our entire community.
Strategic Benefits of Expanding the Industrial Park
Expanding the industrial park is crucial for diversifying our economy and bolstering local job opportunities. By attracting businesses, we create local jobs, support entrepreneurs, foster innovation, and enhance economic vitality.
To illustrate the municipal financial impact, consider the included chart which shows the total annual tax contributions per $100,000 of property value, broken down by municipal, county and school tax levies.
Industrial properties contribute $3,427 per $100,000 in property value, significantly higher than $2,384 for commercial properties and $1,199 for residential properties. This substantial difference underscores how expanding our industrial and commercial sectors can significantly support essential infrastructure improvements and services—such as public safety, recreation, and youth programming—without disproportionately relying on residential taxes.
Since 2018, the strategic expansion of the industrial park has increased the number of industrial and commercial properties to an additional value of $55 million. This growth translates into an annual increase in municipal tax revenue of over $550,000, not including the additional revenue generated for schools and the county. This increased tax revenue demonstrates how focused efforts in expanding the industrial and commercial base significantly bolster our community’s financial health, helping to maintain affordability and improve the quality of life for all residents.
Ethical Considerations and Respect for Agricultural Land
The park's expansion has been undertaken with a respect for our township’s agricultural heritage and a commitment to environmental stewardship. Before considering any increase in the park's boundaries, comprehensive studies are conducted to ensure our development practices are sustainable and minimize impacts on the land. Furthermore, land for the industrial park expansion is acquired through voluntary sales, ensuring no farmer/property owner is compelled to sell against their wishes.
The Township is committed to responsibly developing this area, balancing economic growth with long-standing community values. We currently have a waitlist of businesses eager to establish themselves in our park, underscoring the opportunity of selecting enterprises that complement our community and the existing economic landscape.
Provincial Support and Direct Community Benefits
The provincial government recently acknowledged the value and importance of our industrial park by awarding the township a $1.5 million grant to improve its road infrastructure further. This enhancement facilitates growth and ensures better accessibility and safety for everyone, thereby attracting even more quality businesses that contribute positively to our township.
Commitment to Responsible Growth
As we expand our industrial park, I assure you that every step is taken with a firm commitment to responsible growth. The approach is carefully planned to ensure that Russell Township experiences economic development, maintains fiscal health, and preserves the quality of life for all our current and future residents.
Enhancing our industrial and commercial base alleviates the tax burden on our residents and provides our township with essential revenue. This revenue is crucial for supporting key initiatives, such as the new recreation complex currently under construction and slated to open in fall 2026. Designed to significantly improve our community’s health and welfare, this complex exemplifies how today’s investments pave the way for a stable and prosperous future.
The Council is dedicated to managing this growth with thoughtful care and thorough consultation, carefully considering all impacts to ensure our community remains a great place to live, work, and prosper now and for future generations.
Thank you for your trust and continued support.
Mike Tarnowski, MBA
Mayor Russell Township