The extension of a sewer near the edge of the Municipality was a bone of contention at South Huron Council’s meeting on Monday – the Grand Trunk Sewer extension project was up for discussion.
The project aims to accommodate Phase 2 of the Sol Haven Subdivision, Oakwood Tennis lands, vacant land near St. John’s by-the-Lake Anglican Church, and future development lands east of Highway 21 to County Road 83.
At this time it’s believed that the Municipality’s best option is pipe oversizing to allow for future growth – through a cost sharing agreement with the developer Tridon Group, South Huron would be responsible for approximately 25% of the cost, which amounts to $600,000.
Councilor Vaughan raised concerns about several aspects, including the clarity of who will bear the 25% cost.
Vaughan suggested deferring the final negotiation to a committee of the whole for a more comprehensive discussion related to the budget and other relevant details.
Deputy Mayor Jim Dietrich inquired about existing agreements with Centralia, Crediton, Huron Park, and the south end of Exeter in terms of cost recovery. Giberson explained that each has a cost recovery bylaw with a growth component, where a portion is covered by ratepayers until development proceeds.
Councilor Neeb emphasized the need for additional information to make informed decisions and said that he was against deferring the conversation, as he was worried that this would delay discussions about the 2024 budget.
Neeb highlighted that the draft agreement’s purpose is not necessarily to spend the allocated funds.
Councilors expressed a desire to move forward with negotiations while acquiring additional information. Ultimately, staff were directed to return with a draft cost sharing agreement, but defer any final negotiations.
Written by: B. Shakyaver