We, the undersigned residents of Chatham-Kent, respectfully urge the Municipal Council to stop the proposed Community Hub project involving the redevelopment of the former Sears building at 100 King Street, as well as the sale of the current Civic Centre and library.

While we support the need for modern and accessible public facilities, we are deeply concerned about:
    •    The lack of financial transparency surrounding the project
    •    The absence of a detailed cost comparison between renovating the existing Civic Centre versus developing the new Hub
    •    The potential long-term tax and maintenance implications for residents
    •    The misalignment of priorities, especially as our community faces more pressing needs like infrastructure repair, affordable housing, and economic issues

We believe this project, in its current form, is not the most fiscally responsible choice. We call upon Chatham-Kent Council to:
    1.    Suspend further action on the Community Hub project (estimated cost - $53 million)
    2.    Renovate the current Civic Centre as it is the most cost effective alternative (estimated cost - $37 million) and save $10 million with Council Chambers remaining on 2nd floor - Revised estimate = $27 million

Let’s ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and that decisions reflect the best interests of all residents.