# Belleville municipal development and infrastructure issues > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/belleville-municipal-development-and-infrastructure-issues > Updated: 2026-08-11T02:00:43.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2. The Belleville City Council has addressed several municipal issues involving infrastructure, development, and environmental preservation. In late July, the council faced opposition from local businesses regarding a proposed 171% increase in non-residential development charges, which critics argued could hinder economic growth. Simultaneously, the council voted to implement strict transparency requirements and guardrails for negotiations with Alto concerning a high-speed rail project, responding to resident concerns over expropriation and environmental impacts. By mid-August, the council shifted focus to environmental concerns related to the Hanley Park North residential development. Following public outcry over the impact on the Bell Creek natural heritage system, the council voted to explore preservation options with developers, including potential land trusts or land swaps, though some officials raised concerns regarding taxpayer costs and the lack of negotiation parameters. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-11: Belleville City Council to discuss Bell Creek preservation with developers Belleville City Council will consult with Hanley Park North developers to discuss preservation options for the Bell Creek area following public environmental concerns. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/belleville-city-council-to-discuss-bell-creek-preservation-with-developers ### 2026-07-28: Belleville Council opposes 171% development charge hike, tightens rail project rules Belleville Council rejected a 171% development charge hike and voted 8‑1 to add transparency safeguards to Alto rail talks, citing business and resident concerns. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/belleville-council-opposes-171-development-charge-hike-tightens-rail-project-rules --- Cite as: Belleville municipal development and infrastructure issues. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/belleville-municipal-development-and-infrastructure-issues