The Town of Essex's shoreline protection program has yielded its first project by a property owner.
Construction on a 40-metre break began two weeks ago on a property in the Lypps Beach section. The work is the first project granted under Essex's Shoreline Assistance Loan Program, which funds work on systems that help protect property from flooding and erosion.
The program provides property owners with loans in partnership with a local financial institution. The balance of the loans is transferred onto property tax accounts in the form of a local improvement charge, which is then paid back annually.
Anthony Gagliano, the owner of the property, was the first resident to complete the loan process.
"This was probably the easiest and most preferable process of my project. It would have been really hard for me to access all the funds required at one time and having this option meant that other required work could be done at the same time," said Gagliano. "I would highly recommend any property owner needing shoreline work to consider this option."
The loan program is the first of its kind in Windsor-Essex. Essex chief administrative officer Chris Nepszy says the problem is more common than people realize all over Ontario, and the current economic outlook is not helping matters.
"Many communities in our region and throughout Ontario are struggling to deal with the impacts of high lake levels and shoreline erosion," said Nepszy. "As a town, this program represents a creative, cost-effective solution for residents while meeting our own strategic goals."
Over 30 local property owners have stated interest in the program, with four going through the application process right now.
Anyone interested in learning more about the loan program can get the latest information on the town's official website.
