Mayor's Breakfast Update Highlights Cornwall's Growth, Future Initiatives, and Community Collaboration

‍Cornwall, ON – May 23, 2025 – The Cornwall & Area Chamber of Commerce successfully hosted the highly anticipated Mayor's Breakfast Update yesterday, providing attendees with a comprehensive overview of the city's progress and future strategic directions. The sold-out event brought together community, business, and political leaders for insightful discussions on key municipal matters.

Chamber Vice President Eric Tremblay opened the event, emphasizing the importance of French-language education and bilingualism as a vital asset and economic driver for Cornwall. He highlighted the rich Franco-Ontarian heritage of the city and praised the Conseil scolaire de district catholique de l'Est ontarien (CSDCEO) for their commitment to high-quality French education. Tremblay also underscored the necessity of strong mayoral leadership to guide Cornwall through opportunities and challenges.

Mayor Justin Towndale then delivered a detailed update, showcasing Cornwall's significant growth and strategic advancements. A key highlight was the unprecedented level of residential development, with Council approving 1,000 new doors across the city in January 2025, ranging from apartments to single-family homes to address diverse housing needs. This includes the redevelopment of the former General Hospital site and new affordable housing projects, such as units at Belmont and Montreal Road, and the upcoming Pitt Street North project. The conversion of the former Vincent Massey School into Massey Commons will also provide transitional housing for individuals and families. The Mayor expressed anticipation that the 2026 census would confirm Cornwall’s population has exceeded 50,000 for the first time.

Infrastructure improvements are well underway, including the critical secondary water intake project to ensure a secure freshwater supply, alongside numerous street rehabilitation works on Marleau, Brookdale, and Lemay.

On the economic front, Mayor Towndale celebrated the recent opening of Michelin's 984,000 square foot distribution centre, employing 150 people and reinforcing Cornwall's position as a logistics hub. The city has seen a doubling of Starbucks locations and the return of the DEV Hotel, with a new Hyatt Hotel breaking ground soon. A major tourism highlight is the impending start of construction this year for the Nick Kaneb Drive extension, paving the way for the Great Wolf Lodge, expected to attract over 670,000 visitors annually.

Addressing trade challenges, the Mayor discussed the City's proactive engagement on US tariffs, including joining the Border Mayors Alliance to advocate for border municipalities. Cornwall has also updated its Procurement Policy to prioritize Canadian suppliers for procurements under $100,000, while emphasizing continued friendship and commerce with the American people.

The Mayor also touched on significant changes to business licensing and special event bylaws, acknowledging past challenges and detailing efforts to phase in new fees and make parking more user-friendly downtown. The Cornwall Business Enterprise Centre (CBEC) continues to support entrepreneurs with programs like Starter Company and Summer Company.

Regarding quality of life, updates included Phase 2 of the Park of Hope, renovations at the Civic Complex, and progress towards a proposed beach and dog park. A new Transit Master Plan is underway to explore Sunday service and potential regional service. Post-secondary education remains strong, with St. Lawrence College (SLC) reaffirming its commitment to the Cornwall campus, including the reopening of its millwright machine shop.

Finally, Mayor Towndale highlighted recent successes in waste management. Since January 1, 2025, the city's provincially mandated recycling program and organic waste collection, along with clear garbage bags, have resulted in over 1,000 tonnes of organic waste diverted from the landfill. This diversion has extended the landfill's life expectancy to 2041, saving millions in future costs.

The Chamber extends its sincere thanks to its generous sponsor, the Conseil scolaire de district catholique de l'Est ontarien - CSDCEO, and valuable partners Enbridge Gas, the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA), and the Cornwall & District Real Estate Board for their invaluable support. Appreciation is also extended to the Best Western Parkway Inn & Conference Centre for their excellent hospitality, and to the DEV Hotel & Conference Centre for providing the fantastic staycation prize. The event underscored the strong collaborative spirit among Cornwall's residents, Council, City Staff, and Administration.

The Chamber looks forward to continuing its partnership with the city and stakeholders to foster a bright and bilingual future for Cornwall.

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