Northumberland County council wants more information before weighing in on the proposed Alto corridor route and its possible effects on local communities.
The issue was raised at Wednesday’s county council meeting after Councillor John Logel said a proposed southern route could clip part of Alnwick-Haldimand Township and potentially have broader implications for the county road network and neighbouring municipalities.
Logel said he was first alerted to the issue through communication from Rideau Lakes Mayor Arie Hoogenboom and noted that the consultation timeline has now been extended to April 24.
Warden Bob Crate said the route could have major implications, particularly for Trent Hills, and told council he wants Northumberland to eventually speak with a more unified voice on the issue.
Councillor Hankowski then suggested staff be asked to prepare a report so council could have a more fulsome discussion before the consultation deadline.
Deputy Warden Mandy Martin agreed the matter raises serious issues, including possible impacts on farmland, industrial lands and other infrastructure planning already underway in the county.
In response, council passed a motion directing staff to provide a report at a future committee or council meeting for consideration.
The report is expected to help council determine whether Northumberland should take a formal position on the route and, if so, what concerns it should raise as part of the provincial consultation process.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)