A fresh advocacy group has been established to support economic growth in Chatham-Kent (CK).
The Chatham-Kent Growth Alliance (CKGA), which consists of eight local organizations, officially kicked off this week.
Members include representatives from the Kent Federation of Agriculture, Grain Farmers of Ontario, CK Essex Christian Farmers Federation, CK Property Rights Association, Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers, CK Association of Realtors, CK Home Builders Association, and the CK Chamber of Commerce.
Carson Warrener, who serves on the board for the CK Association of Realtors and CK Home Builders Association, shared with CK News Today that the aim is to create a single source that brings together insights from various sectors while prioritizing the municipality’s welfare.
“It’ll just make council’s life so much easier because we got everybody on board from an organized industry sense,” he added.
Warrener noted that it’s purely coincidental that the CKGA launched as candidates begin campaigning for the 2026 municipal election. The hope is for this organization to continue well beyond this election.
“If we’re doing this right, there will be lots of elections that we’ll counter,” he said.
This timing has also worked out well since the group has reached out to every candidate to gather their views on four key priorities they believe will drive growth in the municipality. These are meaningful consultation early and often, fiscal responsibility and transparency, investment in critical infrastructure, and fair and sustainable taxation.
The CKGA is also hosting an open house where residents can pose their own questions to candidates. This event is scheduled for September 9 from 7 p. m. to 9 p. m. at the Chatham-Kent Armoury.
So far, four out of seven mayoral candidates and about half of councillor candidates have confirmed their attendance.
For more details including how to RSVP for the open house, check online.
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