Town council endorses new film policy

Jeff Helsdon, Editor

Tillsonburg has a new policy to attract filmmakers to town.

Development Commissioner Cephas Panschow presented a report on consultations regarding the policy at the July 20 meeting. He suggested moving forward with a three-year trial policy, starting Jan. 1, 2027, that included waiving the $100 application fee.

Council approved the policy, which includes policies for filming both on municipally-owned and private property, notification of residents near the filming location, the formation of a Film Liaison Committee and a total cost recovery policy.

Panschow said there was an 88 per cent level of support from those who answered the survey and attended the meeting. He also said there was public support for waiving the $100 fee.

Coun. Pete Luciani pointed out the original draft of the policy contained a waiver of the application fee for one year, but questioned why there was now a three-year exemption.

Panschow said the change was to allow more time for the town to become known as a film destination.

Coun. Chris Rosehart also questioned why the policy wouldn’t have an application fee.

Panschow answered that other communities do this to attract filming, so the suggestion was for the town policy to match that. He said filming crews in town would benefit local businesses and catering companies, and that lumber could be purchased for building sets, as well as other goods. Panschow again emphasized that the town is looking to have costs covered for public works expenses and any other costs.

Rosehart also pointed out there was filming for Murdoch Mysteries recently.

Deputy Mayor Dave Beres said he learned from one of his colleagues through the Rural Ontario Municipal Association – of which he is a board member – that many Hallmark movies are filmed in Almonte, in eastern Ontario.

“People come to see the stars and the merchants do very, very well. It’s very positive for the community,” he said.

Mayor Deb Gilvesy asked whether there was a cost to the town for reviewing the application.

Panschow confirmed there would be a cost for town staff to review the application, but again emphasized that his suggestion to waive the fee was based on what other communities are doing.

Council passed a motion to adopt the policy, but did go with an application fee of $100.