Well, the road has been very long, and for the first time in 6 years, any darkness at the end of the tunnel, now has a dim glimmer of hope. This week it was announced by both the municipalities of Strathroy-Caradoc and Adelaide Metcalfe Township that they approved an Interim one-year Servicing Agreement retroactive back to October 27th 2025 to work together for the delivery of water, wastewater, and stormwater management services. Strathroy-Caradoc CAO Rob Browning.
Both municipalities sent out a media release along with the actual agreed upon agreement to the media and public. Adelaide Metcalfe council voted unanimously in favour whereas Strathroy-Caradoc Council voted 7-2 in favour with Councillors Derbyshire and Willsie voting against it. Adelaide Metcalfe CAO Morgan Calvert.
This one-year deal does not eliminate the fact that the battle between the communities over a more solidified servicing agreement still remains in the courts. It’s a $50-million lawsuit, for a historic servicing agreement that before it’s 2019 expiration date saw Adelaide Metcalfe pay to use a portion of Strathroy-Caradoc’s sewer and water capacity so that the stretch of Centre Road could be developed.
But the deal expired in 2019, and the two municipalities have been locked in a dispute in front of the Ontario Land Tribunal, and then in the courts. Browning says that part of the issue is a focus now more than ever.
Calvert says as far as the court dispute, he says both communities, both CAOs and both councils are working towards a common goal. But he explains why only a one-year deal?
So this agreement focuses on the Centre Road corridor and the Grogast subdivision. Calvert says these areas were the focus for now.
CAO Calvert went on to say that the agreement is growth-oriented as it allows those wishing to develop in the commercial corridor the ability to connect to the system, including any existing businesses that may not be connected or requires a larger connection. The one year term does create some uncertainty given its short timeline, however the agreement speaks to both parties working toward a longer term agreement while the two municipalities resolve any outstanding issues that remain.
He says the new agreement recognizes that the McDonald Drain and Cuddy Drain are municipal drains that are already captured by the Drainage Act. The Drainage Act sets out the rules and regulations for managing municipal drains. If maintenance or improvements are required on either municipal drain, the Drainage Act would outline the process in which either municipality will use depending on where the maintenance or improvements are required. So in essence, the two municipalities still share the use of the stormwater management (municipal drains) but through the provisions of the Drainage Act.
Calvert did comment on any existing connections that could now be completed.
myFM asked Browning if he was concerned that Strathroy-Caradoc council was not unanimous in approving the deal.
But both will be working together for a common goal which includes any potential new additions to the land and properties in question.
Browning added, it’s been a good experience working with Calvert and believes that will continue.
Calvert in return credits Browning for his commitment since he came on as Interim CAO.
The agreement section 5.1.1 and 5.1.3 lays details out as a one-year term, no new connections permitted following expiry of this agreement unless and until a new agreement is executed. term deadline is October 27th 2026.
The framework clearly defines each municipality’s roles and responsibilities, including the designation of owners for public utilities and the operating authority for maintaining and managing systems. By modernizing how these services are provided, the municipalities are ensuring reliable, efficient, and coordinated delivery for current and future residents and businesses.
“This is a significant step forward for the Municipality of Strathroy-Caradoc and the Township of Adelaide Metcalfe” stated Strathroy-Caradoc Mayor Colin Grantham. “Our strengthened relationship will result in future opportunities for our area collectively.”
“This agreement creates a path for both municipalities to grow and thrive together,” stated Mayor Sue Clarke. “It reinforces the spirit of partnership between our communities and signals to investors, businesses, and community members alike that Adelaide Metcalfe and Strathroy-Caradoc are open for business.”
Here is the one-year interim servicing agreement.
servicing-agreement-s-c-and-am-october-27-2025_0.pdf
Written by: C. Soares