The Town of St. Andrews has announced a major delay in the highly anticipated refurbishment of the Market Wharf and Market Square seawall, with the project now set to begin in October 2025.

Vicki Hogarth – Local Journalism Initiative 

“We have made the difficult decision to delay the project by a year,” said Mayor Brad Henderson during the September 23, 2024 council meeting. The delay stems from unforeseen environmental concerns and the need for costly mitigation measures that were not fully anticipated during initial discussions with engineers.

Recent feedback from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) revealed challenges with the current design. “Addressing these issues would have required significant and expensive mitigation,” Henderson added.

Despite the setback, the town has secured support from its funding partners. “We have engaged with our funding partners, and I’m pleased to confirm that all parties are on board with rescheduling the project for 2025,” Henderson confirmed, ensuring that the necessary financial resources will be available when the project resumes.

While the delay is disappointing, Henderson highlighted that it is necessary to wait an entire calendar year in order to cause the least amount of disruptions for local businesses and residents who rely on the wharf, particularly during the bustling tourist season. “While we share the community’s frustration, we must consider the livelihoods of those who depend on the ocean,” said Henderson.

In addition to the wharf delay, the meeting addressed other important community matters, including the establishment of a Mental Wellness Committee. “The Mental Wellness Committee will offer advice and recommendations to support positive mental health initiatives in our community,” explained Councillor Annette Harland. This new initiative has been well-received, highlighting the council’s dedication to work with residents to promote mental health and community well-being.

Several grants and policy approvals also took center stage. The council agreed to a $500 grant for Truth and Reconciliation Day and a $300 donation to the Charlotte County Hospital Foundation’s 11th annual Radiothon. “It’s important that we support events that foster unity and address critical issues,” said Deputy Mayor Kate Akagi.

Further discussions explored the feasibility of a new community wheelchair bus rental service. Lorraine Justason, the initiative’s leader, made a presentation to council highlighting the need for accessible transportation, particularly for people with disabilities and seniors. “There’s a significant gap in services here,” Justason noted, prompting positive feedback from council members who acknowledged the pressing need for more regional transportation options. Currently, Charlotte Dial-A-Ride is the only wheelchair accessible transportation service for locals in the region.

Among other operational matters, council approved a new policy on derelict vehicles. “This policy will provide bylaw enforcement with the necessary framework to declare vehicles derelict,” explained Councillor Steve Neill, aiming to address unsightly premises and enhance the town’s overall appearance.

The meeting concluded with the council's unanimous acceptance of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Pathway Feasibility Study, developed by Dillon Consulting. The study outlines a comprehensive plan for the town to achieve net-zero emissions by 2036. “This report offers a solid framework for our environmental commitments moving forward,” said Henderson, praising the plan’s detailed recommendations for future budgetary and environmental decisions.