Photo by B. Shakyaver
In Wednesday evening’s Committee of the Whole meeting, South Huron Council delved into a thorough discussion surrounding the Grand Bend Trunk Sewer Extension – the committee of the whole was prompted by a notice of motion submitted by Councilor Marissa Vaughan at South Huron Council’s meeting on November 20th.
Councillor Aaron Neeb highlighted the long-term benefits of the sewer extension, emphasizing its role in accommodating growth and economic development. Neeb pointed out the potential stabilizing effect on sewer rates, citing the current housing crisis and the need for responsible development. He underscored the importance of not being short-sighted and stressed that the extension would benefit both current and future residents. He also noted that the council had previously moved to support earlier phases of the project – as was discussed in June 2020.
Councillor Marissa Vaughan confirmed her support for the extension’s initial phase but raised significant concerns about the proposed 25% oversizing of the pipe. She questioned the necessity for such oversizing, urging a more fiscally conservative approach.
Vaughan challenged the urgency of committing funds to infrastructure that might not see immediate use, urging a closer examination of the municipality’s financial priorities.
It was also clarified by Infrastructure Manager Don Giberson that development is in fact paying for development (as is the municipality’s guiding policy).
He stated that the repayments would be collected with interest on the balance owed.
Mayor George Finch dispelled misconceptions about funding, clarifying that it is not a tax increase but a user fee system leveraging reserves. Mayor Finch urged a forward-looking approach, seeing the extension as a visionary investment in the municipality’s future growth and prosperity.
Through a recorded vote, all members present moved to recommend the approval of the cost sharing agreement, save for Councilor Vaughan. The final approval will come to South Huron Council in a future meeting.
Written by: B. Shakyaver