Darlene Wroe For The Speaker: Chamberlain Township progressing into 2026 – The Temiskaming Speaker
CHAMBERLAIN TOWNSHIP – Chamberlain Township saw good progress in 2025 and intends to continue that in 2026.
Reeve Kerry Stewart noted one of the improvements was the approval for the township’s waste disposal site for receiving certain types of waste, particularly soil. As a result of that, the township received a good contract that allowed it to direct funds into its machinery replacement fund.
“Over the last few years, we haven’t really been able to build our machinery replacement fund and this is giving us some good headway into that.”
He said the township has acquired two more plow trucks, which are used but in good shape, he said. This will allow the township to do more of its own roadwork without having to contract it out, which in turn should save the taxpayers money, he said.
COMMUNITY GARDEN
Chamberlain has been working on its community garden and related projects this year, and work will continue into 2026.
The Temiskaming Foundation provided $800 to the township for the creation of the community garden.
Township chief administrative officer Vaughn Finch said that construction has started on the planters, and benches have been completed and received. Planning for the community garden is continuing, he said.
“The township will contribute labour and some funds to purchase trees, plants, materials, and items as the project progresses.”
Planet Youth funding was received for the creation of an intergeneration garden in the community garden as well.
The Hilliardton Marsh Research and Education Centre had volunteers help with the creation of a pathway in the park, said Finch.
Stewart said there have been many improvements made to the property.
“We are going to have a nice community garden there. I’m hoping to see a memorial orchard worked into that.”
He added that he is hoping a nice walking track will be developed in the park. The project has provided an opportunity to beautify the area, he said.
“The park is coming together quite nicely.”
The recreation committee hosted several events this year including the Family Winter Fun Day on March 15, a community yard sale on May 10, and a Snowflake Bazaar on November 15.
The township received $49,999 in funding to increase emergency response capacity of public works and for the Chamberlain township hall, related Finch.
Finch outlined that the township was approved by the provincial government for up to $44,000 in emergency funding for repairs required as the result of flooding April 12, 2024.
“Repairs were required for many roads and culverts where were washed out due to flooding.”
The funding transfer will occur at a later date.
