Port Hardy council has given early approval to spend over a million dollars on the district’s water supply.
At their Feb. 13 meeting, a staff report from Chief Administrative Officer Heather Nelson-Smith was included in council’s agenda that discussed ongoing issues with the district’s water treatment plant.
“The purpose of this staff report is to seek early approval for the capital plan that includes the replacement of a critical water reservoir at the district’s water treatment plant,” wrote Nelson-Smith in her report. “The proposed project aims to improve water storage capacity and address the aging end-of-life infrastructure of the existing reservoir.”
According to the report, the total estimate for the project is going to be $1,700,000, with the funds coming from the Growing Communities Fund ($700,000) and the Water Reserve ($1,000,000).
”The Growing Communities Fund is specifically designed to support infrastructure projects that enhance the overall well-being of our community. Replacing the water reservoir aligns with the fund’s objectives by ensuring a sustainable and reliable water supply for residents.”
As for the district’s Water Reserve funds, they are designated for “crucial water infrastructure projects. Allocating $1,000,000 from the reserve ensures that the replacement project is adequately funded, safeguards the district’s water infrastructure, and provides the long-term sustainability of our water supply.”
The objectives for the water treatment plant project were listed as such:
Enhance water storage capacity; and
Replace aging and end-of-life infrastructure.
Under scope of work, Nelson-Smith listed:
Demolition of the existing water reservoir;
Construction of a new, modern water reservoir with increased storage capacity; and
Installation of updated infrastructure to meet current industry standards.
“The current water reservoir is aging and has reached the end of its operational life,” wrote Nelson-Smith. “Increased water storage capacity is essential to meet our community’s growing demands. The replacement aligns with our commitment to maintaining a resilient and reliable water supply.”
She then recommended to council that the early approval of the capital plan will quickly “expedite the commencement of the project, addressing the urgent need for an upgraded and resilient water storage facility. The proposed funding from the Growing Communities Fund and Water Reserve reflects a strategic and responsible approach to financing this essential project… The replacement of the water reservoir is a critical infrastructure project that ensures the reliability and sustainability of our water supply.”
According to the minutes of the Feb. 13 council meeting (no video of the meeting was posted on the district’s website or Youtube page as of the Gazette’s Monday deadline), Coun. John Tidbury made the motion to “grant early approval in the 2024-2028 Financial Plan for $1,700,000 towards the replacement of the water reservoir at the Port Hardy Water Treatment Plant and authorize staff to utilize the Building Communities Fund and water reserves to support the funding.”
Coun. Dennis Dugas seconded the motion and it was approved by council.