The Chatham-Kent Public Utilities Commission (PUC) is seeking public input into options for replacing the Wallaceburg Water Treatment Plant.
The PUC has launched an online survey at Let’s Talk Chatham-Kent listing a number of options for replacement of the plant that first opened in 1946.
The filtration plant was eventually named after long-time Wallaceburg Water Commission member W.P. (Pat) Moynihan.
Councillor and PUC chair Councillor Carmen McGregor said continuing repairs to the existing facility on Baseline Road isn’t a viable, long-term option.
“It isn’t a question of spending money, we know we have to do that,” she said, in a press release.
“The issue is how to spend the money wisely. The Wallaceburg plant has served the community well for many years but it’s time to look forward.”
Rather than presenting one preferred choice, the PUC is listing a variety of options, including building a new water treatment facility in Wallaceburg.
Other choices include what source of the water (the existing Chenal Ecarte, the Chatham Water Treatment Plant or the Lambton Area Water Supply System) will be used.
Also up for consideration is whether the plant will serve Wallaceburg only or will it serve a broader North Kent area including the rapidly expanding greenhouse industry.
The current plant has the ability to treat 13.6 million litres per day and is operating at about 55 per cent capacity.
PUC General Manager Tim Sunderland said decisions could influence development in the area for the next generation.
“This is a real opportunity to help determine the future,” he said, in a media release.
“This is an exciting time for Wallaceburg and area,” said Chatham-Kent Councillor Aaron Hall.
“When the plant opened, it heralded a period of growth and prosperity. We have the opportunity now to plot the future of the North Kent area. A safe and efficient water supply is a necessity as we move forward.”
The survey will remain open until November 27.
Once it closes, the information will help form the basis of a technical studies plan to evaluate the options.
Public information sessions will be held during the winter with final plans being brought forward from June to August of 2022.
