Windsor council has voted to begin the expropriation process for the derelict residential properties on Indian Road near the Ambassador Bridge. According to a news release, the vote was held at an in-camera meeting on July 27, voting to unanimously file the application for approval to expropriate land without delay for the municipal purpose of the economic, social, and environmental well-being of the municipality. Notices were served to property owners on Monday with a required notification to be published in The Windsor Star newspaper on Saturday. “For decades, residents have been faced with boarded-up homes, significant urban blight and decay, and the overwhelming feeling of being forgotten and considered obsolete in the shadow of infrastructure meant to sustain economies, neighbourhoods, and families,” said Mayor Drew Dilkens. “Despite lengthy and detailed negotiations, where I have participated as a representative of our community, recent events around the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge have made it clear that this action is necessary at this time. We need a path forward that is no longer at the expense of Windsorites, as we stand up for Olde Sandwich Towne and work to protect our residents.” He added council was united and has stood together. “Expropriating these properties will enable reactivation of boarded-up homes, increase our housing supply when we need it most, restore vibrancy and stability to the west end, and deliver tangible neighbourhood improvements even as we continue planning for a prosperous future alongside the Gordie Howe International Bridge,” he added. “That is what we are fighting for here. To west end residents: Hang on just a little bit longer. We will not give up.” The city says the properties have created “adverse impacts on the Windsor community in general, and Olde Sandwich Towne in particular.” The impacts include reduced housing supply, public safety concerns, property standards issues, loss of heritage features, and sustained uncertainty in the long-term use of the area. The properties are included under the Olde Sandwich Towne Community Improvement Plan, approved in 2001, and says the municipality can: Acquire, hold, clear, grade, or otherwise prepare land for community improvement Construct, repair, rehabilitate, or improve buildings or land acquired or held by it in conformity with the community improvement plan Sell, lease, or otherwise dispose of any land and buildings acquired or held by it in conformity with the community improvement plan The plan also stated if an agreement with landowners can’t be reached, the city can exercise its authority under the planning act to get the lands back and utilize them. The properties to be expropriated include: “City administration remains actively involved in working to support increasing housing supply and combating urban blight across our community,” said John Revell, chief building official with Windsor. “Our actions in Olde Sandwich Towne, past and present, are working to address derelict homes and public safety concerns, while helping to ensure compliance with property standards that residents rely on to sustain vibrant neighbourhoods.” To date, Windsor has spent around $3 million in legal and professional fees on negotiations for the properties.
