Town to launch ditching subsidy program in 2027
October 8, 2026 at 9:50 AM
Beginning next year, some Fort Erie residents will be able to receive financial support to clear out vegetation along roadside ditches that otherwise creates challenging sightlines.
Such a subsidy program first came to council back in 2023, but staff said in a report at the October 5 committee meeting an increase in concerns and questions about ditching prompted them to take another look at the proposed program.
In their review, staff recommended proceeding with the one-year trial, funded to a maximum of $10,000 through existing budgets.
“The pilot would allow staff to assess program uptake, administrative requirements, operational impacts, and overall effectiveness,” the report said. “At the conclusion of the pilot period, staff would report back to council with the results and provide recommendations regarding the program’s continuation, modification, expansion, and any future funding requirements.”
The program would act similar to the snow windrow assistance program, which the report said has been effective, if limited in use.
While she supported the trial, Councillor Ann-Marie Noyes wasn’t fully on board with some of the specifics.
“I will support this but I do have my concerns that it’s tied to a person’s income,” she said. “We created the problem for the resident and that’s why I don’t think it should be income based.”
The proposed program includes some requirements for eligibility. Financially, to be eligible residents must either receive the federal government’s Guaranteed Income Supplement, be approved under the Town’s Senior Utility Relief Program or qualify under the federal government’s Low-Income Measure.
Applicants must also demonstrate a physical inability to perform the work themselves. This could be accomplished by showing proof of approval for Niagara Region Specialized Transit services, a valid accessible parking permit or a completed medical certification from a doctor or healthcare professional.
Those eligible will receive up to three service vouchers a year. The trial will start in 2027 and run from May through October.
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About The Author
Luke Edwards
Luke Edwards is a longtime Niagara community journalist who has covered a variety of beats, including business, agriculture, the wine industry and politics. When not writing, there's a good chance he can be found at a baseball diamond or curling rink.
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