Tillsonburg council questions archeological assessments

Jeff Helsdon, Editor

A request to approve an archeological assessment in the VanNorman Innovation Park Phase 2 that could cost up to $384,675 resulted in Tillsonburg council members questioning the process.

Currently in the process of being developed, the VanNorman Innovation Park’s second phase initially had several sites identified that required an archeological assessment. The initial assessments led to the need for Stage 3 assessments at seven sites and, subsequently, a Stage 4 assessment at five sites. The $384,675 bid for the Stage 4 assessment from Stantec includes $186,991 for two sites that need to be done to allow construction to proceed.

Deputy Mayor Dave Beres asked whether there is any way to negotiate with Six Nations to get blanket coverage instead of assessments costing $200,000, $300,000, and $400,000 each time. He mentioned the soccer as a past example.

“This is going to cost millions in the long run, assessments every time there is building construction,” he said.

Development Commissioner Cephas Panschow described the artifacts that have been found to date as “nothing major in terms of size”.

Mayor Deb Gilvesy said that anytime an assessment is done next to a watercourse, something will be found. She asked how long this has held up development of the industrial park.

Panschow said the delay has been up to two years, with total assessment costs approaching $800,000.

Coun. Chris Parker suggested talking to provincial ministries about the issue.

“Realistically this is going to not only cost the town, but is holding up the development,” he said. “Has anybody had this discussion with the Ministry of Red Tape? This is red tape at this point. I’m wondering if there is an opportunity to have these discussions if we haven’t.”

Beres asked how significant it is that the tender was approved at the July 20 meeting.

“There isn’t a way forward without doing this work,” Panschow said. “If we don’t get it passed, it won’t get done until spring 2027.”

Council approved the bid, with funding for the cost of the assessment to come from the sale of land in the innovation park.