Photo by B. Shakyaver
On Monday evening, (December 4), Janet Baird-Jackson, a local resident from Oakwood Links Lane, delivered a delegation to South Huron Council, regarding the Grand Bend Trunk Sewer Extension.
During the presentation, Baird-Jackson stated anticipated traffic growth and Sol Haven’s pending inquiry about turning lanes pointed to a larger issue in infrastructure.
Baird-Jackson delved into the initial understanding that there was sufficient capacity for Phase 1, prompting questions about the revised requirements.
Baird-Jackson presented census data indicating a decrease of 35 in total population but an increase of 91 residences from 2016 – stating that this trend suggested outmigration with a rise in housing availability. She urged careful consideration of competing priorities for scarce funds, questioning the allocation of reserves.
She also highlighted ongoing developments by other builders who, despite installing services, are holding off on further progress due to market conditions.
Letters from members of the public were also received for information at the meeting, but council skimmed past one from Don de Jong of Tridon group. His correspondence indicated that the decision was becoming time sensitive, and that the developer was acting in good faith by allowing the issue to remain with council for as long as it has.
“We hope that our strategy of trying to cooperate, and being with a scenario that we also recognize as a much higher cost, than what we would have normally accepted; does not stall the process now,”
The delegation will certainly give council lots to talk about in their committee of the whole tomorrow (December 6) – with staff’s prepared presentation recommending that council proceed with the oversizing of the pipe, as it is best practice for infrastructure planning, and consistent with previous approvals.
Written by: B. Shakyaver
myFM has been following this story throughout it’s tenure at council. For more background please read the pieces below:
Sewer Extension Outside of Grand Bend Ignites Discussion at South Huron Council | 90.5 Exeter Today
Chambers Packed as Grand Bend Trunk Sewer Debate Heats Up | 90.5 Exeter Today
Locals Speak Out Against Grand Bend Sewer Extension Project at Council | 90.5 Exeter Today
