The on-going and turbulent tariff dispute between Canada and the U.S. has prompted a special meeting of Chatham-Kent council on Thursday evening.
Mayor Darrin Canniff said the meeting is to discuss the economic implications of the tariffs on the community and explore potential measures to support local businesses, the agricultural sector, and residents.
The municipality anticipates councillors and administration will also discuss strategies to mitigate financial burdens, engage with industry stakeholders, and determine how to best navigate the evolving trade war.
Municipal officials said the goal of the special council meeting is to guide a strategic response to tariffs that can then be implemented in the community.
“These U.S.-led tariffs will create significant challenges for Canadians and for the people of Chatham-Kent,” said Mayor Canniff. “However, our community is resilient. We will stand together, work together, and do everything we can to protect Chatham-Kent residents and businesses from the impacts of these tariffs. I am calling on all CK residents and businesses to buy local where you can, and buy Canadian where you can. This is a time where our already close-knit community needs to come together to support each other.”
The special council meeting will be held at 5 p.m. in the Chatham-Kent council chamber and will be streamed live through YourTV Chatham-Kent’s YouTube channel.
Chatham-Kent staff and council members are also "actively advocating" with the provincial and federal governments for fair trade policies and relief measures, according to the municipality.
Officials noted the municipality is "committed" to ensuring that the concerns of local businesses, the agricultural sector, and residents are heard at the highest levels of government.
They added that further updates, including any support programs or policy or bylaw changes, will be shared as they become available.
Click here for resources on tariffs.
The U.S. government has imposed a 25 per cent tariff on goods from Canada, a 10 per cent tariff on Canadian energy, and has ordered a 25 per cent tariff on steel and aluminum, tentatively beginning on March 12, 2025.