PelhamToday has invited year-end reflections from our elected officials. Today we hear from Pelham Town Councillor Bob Hildebrandt:
As 2024 draws to a close, Pelham can celebrate significant achievements in infrastructure, sustainability, and community services, demonstrating a collective commitment to progress.
Reducing Hydro One rates for Pelham residents
Since 2011, Pelham has prioritized reducing Hydro One electricity delivery rates for residents. This year, during the August AMO conference, the Town delegation persistently advocated for reclassification from Medium Density to Urban High Density. Success in this area would reduce financial burdens on households and businesses, paving the way for more equitable utility rates. While challenges remain, these efforts underline the importance of collective action and sustained dialogue with utility providers.
Advancing electrification and infrastructure resilience
The Town achieved critical milestones in electrification and infrastructure this year. The upgraded transformer station along Highway 20 near E. L. Crossley Secondary School resolved low voltage and phase imbalance issues, enhancing energy reliability for Fenwick and north Pelham residents.
Pelham also completed its LED streetlight conversion program, reducing energy use for one of the Town's highest electricity-consuming systems. This initiative reflects Pelham’s commitment to sustainability, aligning infrastructure upgrades with environmental goals. Ongoing projects like feasibility studies on solar power installation on the Meridian Centre roof and innovative designs for the new Fonthill fire hall further showcase Pelham's dedication to a greener future.
Infrastructure and stormwater management
Infrastructure improvements extended to roadways, enhancing safety, addressing speeding and accessibility for all users, is our goal.
Effingham Street design upgrades in 2025 with construction in 2026-27, include a better road surface, drainage systems, and pedestrian pathways, reflecting the Town’s commitment to safe and efficient travel between Highway 20 and Canboro Road.
Stormwater facilities and outlet erosion were addressed for two locations in 2024. Rice Road and Highway 20 was a collaborative project specifically addressing the outlet erosion north of Highway 20 and completed this summer.. The Timber Creek stormwater facility was identified as having the highest priority with regards to rehabilitation and maintenance, and work was completed this fall. Addressing these issues was a first for Pelham, providing direction for future projects.
Engineered Waste Management Facility
The Road 12 Engineered Waste Management Facility, a joint initiative with Grimsby, West Lincoln, and Lincoln, saw significant upgrades this year. An integral part of the operation at the site is the focus on waste diversion and material reuse. In addition, the state-of-the-art site utilizes innovative technology, industry best practices and robust environmental methods to improve waste management efficiency while reducing environmental impact to underscore Pelham’s vision for sustainability.
Looking ahead
The accomplishments of 2024 demonstrate Pelham’s resilience, innovation, and community spirit. From advocating for dependable, affordable electricity to modernizing infrastructure and embracing sustainability, the Town has made strides toward a brighter future.
As we enter 2025, Pelham remains focused on delivering meaningful projects and fostering a thriving community. Residents are encouraged to stay engaged in shaping the Town’s future. Together, we will continue to build a sustainable and prosperous Pelham.
Thank you for your support, and here’s to continued progress in the year ahead!
Merry Christmas and a Blessed and Happy New Year.
Councillor Bob Hildebrandt represents Ward 3.
