According to Township Supervisor Kelly Slinger, the first step in this process is enforcing the township’s Property Maintenance Ordinance. In a recent update, Kelly explained that in early August, she and other township officials met with the Monroe County Redevelopment Authority and consultant Chris Gulotta to discuss how they can "help Canadensis be beautiful again." The group concluded that the starting point would be to place violations on properties in disrepair.
"This is a process that was started for all of the properties in the main corridor and beyond the light," Kelly wrote, emphasizing that this step is necessary for moving forward.
While the township has initiated enforcement actions, some residents question whether this is the right approach. Concerns have been raised that fines and violations might burden property owners, many of whom are already facing financial difficulties. Critics suggest that revitalization could be better achieved through voluntary community-led efforts rather than government enforcement.
A growing number of residents believe that restoring Canadensis should focus on grassroots initiatives—neighbors helping neighbors to improve their properties and public spaces without the pressure of fines or penalties. These voluntary efforts could offer a more cooperative and sustainable way to bring new life to the village.
As the township continues to enforce its ordinances, there remains hope that a balance can be struck between maintaining property standards and encouraging voluntary beautification efforts that empower the community rather than penalizing property owners.
