Water open house touches on two topics of discussion

Town staff and members of town council were at the Libro Centre July 9 for an open house regarding the town’s water system.

A recent public open house at the Libro Centre focused on the town and its water supply.

The open house, held July 9 in the lobby of the Libro Centre, was to deal with two items at the same time. Manager of engineering Todd Hewitt said it was the second public information centre (PIC) for the water treatment plant expansion and the first PIC for the town’s new water master plan.

Hewitt said the first PIC for the water treatment plant expansion was roughly six to eight months ago. 

“The topics are combined rather than having two PIC’s,” said Hewitt. “We thought putting them together means the public can get the information all at once.”

The water master plan is in its first phase, Hewitt pointed out, with the goal being to look at various models and get the necessary data they need to move forward. He said the public is welcome to come forward with any questions or concerns.

The late afternoon/early evening session covered the expansion of Amherstburg’s water treatment plant as well as the town’s new water master plan.

“The biggest thing we are looking for and want regarding the water master plan is water pressure and flow,” said Hewitt.

A particular portion of town that is getting a closer look is McGregor. Hewitt said water pressure in McGregor is acceptable but could be improved and that will be factored into the new water master plan.

Regarding the water master plan, Hewitt added the town will go through various options and will bring results back to the public. 

Final costs still have to be finalized based on what council, likely the next council, ultimately decides.

“We haven’t got there yet for the final solution,” said Hewitt. 

Costs are not the only factor that will be part of what the recommended option will be, he added, but will certainly be included.

The water plant expansion may also have to wait until the next council is in place, he noted. 

The town is finalizing the Environmental Study Report (ESR) and timing of when it is dealt with depends on whether the current council goes into lame duck status.

“Based on the current flow, we’ll be at capacity by 2035,” said Hewitt. “That’s why we’re starting the process now.”Hewitt said administration is trying to move the process along now so that reaching capacity is avoided and the possibility of having to restrict development doesn’t arise.

For more information on the two water-related issues or to provide input, visit www.talktheburg.ca. 

Water open house touches on two topics of discussion

By Ron Giofu