The NextStar Energy EV battery manufacturing plant, which was named Canada’s top business deal in 2022 and Windsor’s largest investment in over a century, was made possible by a partnership and whole-of-government approach from all levels. The City of Windsor played a crucial role in endorsing the Windsor Works strategy, assembling land, and providing funding to support servicing and preparing the lands for the facilities. It also worked with Invest WindsorEssex and collaborated with upper levels of government to attract and secure the investment.

The common goal, unprecedented collaboration, and commitment quickly completed the planning stage and started construction at a rapid pace. However, the current construction stoppage and the future of the entire project is at risk due to prolonged negotiations with upper levels of government. This impasse jeopardizes not only the completion of the EV plant but also our efforts to attract additional investment to the region, and places 3000 Windsor jobs, livelihoods, growth and development, reputation and strong economic outlook at significant risk. Each passing day increases the likelihood that Windsor, its workers, residents, and businesses will not receive the commitments made to them to date.

We need all parties to finalize all outstanding matters and immediately restart the planning and construction of the modular, battery cell and research and development NextStar Energy EV battery facilities located within the City of Windsor. 

Completion of this project will secure Windsor’s strategic location and economic future as the home of Canada’s electric vehicle future, and status as the Automotive and Automobility Capital of Canada. 

The City of Windsor has delivered on its commitment originally promised to provide the financial support required to assemble the land and provide servicing for the location of the facilities. The Province of Ontario has already committed significantly more funding than originally promised in an effort to secure Windsor’s economic future. It is unacceptable for Windsor to be shortchanged or forced to accept a scaled-down version due to unfulfilled promises by the Federal Government. 

We need you to add your voice, and your signature, to our call to the Federal Government to urgently finalize all outstanding financial matters to provide for the successful completion of all planned and promised components of the NextStar EV battery manufacturing facilities; formalize the agreement; and put an end to the uncertainty that is threatening future economic developments in the City of Windsor, in Ontario, and in Canada. 

I urge every resident, business owner, community leader, and stakeholder in our region to sign this petition today. Let us stand together and ensure that Windsor receives the full benefits promised to us.