Three Wilmot property owners seeking alternate fencing for TCMH project

The photo looks down the approximate proposed fence line toward Peterson’s Hill (the mown area). Three homeowners are hoping for an environmentally friendly and natural alternative to fencing their property on one side. Contributed photo

Lee Griffi, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

“Fences make bad neighbours.”

That was the title of a news release sent by Lisa Hagen, a New Hamburg resident concerned about an outdoor development by Tri-County Mennonite Homes (TCMH). It includes a yet-to-be-erected fence on the non-profit’s property.

Some neighbours have been asking for a meeting with the organization for more than a month to discuss their concerns about a fence around the floodplain.

TCMH is working with Wilmot Township on an initiative to revitalize stormwater management and enhance access to the river flats with an accessible trail system. The trails will connect to barrier-free pathways at Nithview Community and preserve the flats’ natural grasslands while protecting wildlife habitats.

Hagen has written several emails to the board and the CEO, suggesting options ranging from cedar rail fencing to hedges that would reduce the environmental footprint and be paid for by the landowners themselves on the first three properties.

TCMH has not directly responded to the suggestions.

“We are legally at their mercy regarding the fence, but we just want to help out financially so we can get one that fits in with the natural look of the floodplain and has the least impact on wildlife and the environment,” Hagen stated. “There’s a big difference between a metal chain-link fence and a cedar rail one, and to date, we don’t know what we’re getting.”

Hagen applauds the future pathways in the natural area, but is cognizant of the regular flooding of the field. She said the proposed cedar rail fence would be above the usual flood line for the first three houses and would be maintained by the homeowners.

“Further information is needed for plans beyond those lots,” added Hagen’s release.

“The fence will be erected, but it could benefit both Nithview Home residents and the wider community functionally, aesthetically and financially if they allowed the neighbours to defray the cost in exchange for a natural fence,” Hagen explained.

Nithview Community sent a registered letter to adjacent homeowners on Nov. 25, inviting them to participate in a Zoom meeting on Dec. 2.

The Gazette reached out to TCMH and was provided with a written response.

“TCMH and the board of directors met on Nov. 18 to discuss fencing along TCMH’s property line on the Nith River flats,” read the response. “The board of directors felt it would be prudent to meet with affected landowners to provide information about the upcoming fencing project and other developments on TCMH’s land. An invite letter was sent to homeowners with property adjacent to TCMH’s land and who will be immediately impacted by the first phase of fencing.”

The response added that, with impending developments in stormwater management in the area, clearly defining access points and creating accessible pathways are crucial for everyone’s safety.

“Once stormwater management developments and the pathway project are complete, the fence will not only provide clear boundaries for use, but it will also prevent accidental access by trail users to all neighbouring private properties bordering TCMH’s land,” continued the response.