North Grenville Mayor Nancy Peckford is outlining her expectations for issues the province needs to address regarding the proposed prison in Kemptville. The prison, expected to be completed in 2027, has been controversial within the community, with local groups organizing multiple protests against the facility since it was announced by Premier Doug Ford last August.
Mayor Peckford says a letter was sent to the Ministry of the Solicitor General, requesting more details on how the Ministry plans to handle things like upgrading roads and infrastructure impacted by building the prison. “Council is also seeking a formal arrangement,” says Mayor Peckord, “whereby policing costs associated with the facility are covered by the province as of 2027.”
According to Mayor Peckford, the province has been open to discussions so far. “There have been more than eight meetings with key local stakeholders,” Mayor Peckford says, “such as the hospital, school boards, and the community through public engagement sessions in the last year.” Peckford also says she’s personally met with people involved with the prison project, including local MPP Steve Clark, to stress the importance of being transparent with the community.
A public information session on the prison is being held online on November 17th, starting at 6:30 PM. Mayor Peckford says all of North Grenville town council will be there, and is encouraging locals to register for the session and give their thoughts on the prison. Visit the Municipality of North Grenville Facebook page for registration details.