MPP Ernie Hardeman's annual survey shows astronomical hydro rates have some businesses looking at uncertain futures.
OXFORD COUNTY - Oxford MPP Ernie Hardeman has released the results of his annual business survey.
According to the survey 80 percent of local businesses think the government is on the wrong track, 16 percent of businesses are unsure, and 4 percent agree with the government's approach.
Hardeman tells Heart FM about the top reported issues in the survey.
"The number one issue rather than red tape was hydro rates. Having said that, I think this is the first year that we have seen their comments being so concerning."
He says the rates have some business owners considering the idea of closing for good.
The Liberals recently announced a 25 percent decrease in the rates, leaving Hardeman with mixed feelings.
"We're pleased with the fact that they're going to reduce the rates, very concerned with the fact that they're not dealing with the base or the reason that the rates have gone so high so fast. In fact all they're doing is spending more money over a longer period of time they tell us, but they have done nothing to reduce the cost from going up."

Woodstonian Charged in Child Exploitation Case
Woodstock Home and Lifestyle Show Returns this Weekend
Nominations Open for Tillsonburg Citizen of the Year
PJHL Playoff Recap - March 17th
UPDATE: Video Footage Wanted for Death Investigation
MURC: Coming Soon to Ingersoll!
Candidate Information Session Coming Up
EZT Remembers Former Ward 3 Councillor
SWPH Issues Cold Weather Alert
UPDATE: Strong Winds Continue this Morning
Woodstock Resident Charged with Speeding
Interview with the Mayor - March 16th, 2026
Woodstock Driver Charged in Brant County
PJHL Playoff Recap - March 13th to March 15th
March Break Safety Tips from Oxford OPP
Oxford-Elgin Rainbow Research Project Underway
OPP: Plan Ahead Before St. Paddy's Day Festivities
Another Friday the 13th in Port Dover Today
Hansen Parents Visit Artemis II Explorers Club at IDCI
East Oxford Parents Respond to AARC Announcement
Comments
Add a comment