|
M.D. ignores wishes of Faust people
Chris Clegg
for South Peace News
The residents of Faust have spoken, but the M.D. of Big Lakes council is not listening.
Council decided at its Sept. 30 meeting to proceed with the construction of a low pressure water and sewer system instead of a gravity system in regard to an upgrade in the hamlet’s east end.
The controversial issue saw the M.D. hold several meetings on the issue before making its decision.
“There is no way we can accept the (gravity) system,” said Joussard Councillor Guy L’Heureux. “We can’t put 8-10 people on the street. We can’t put something in they can’t pay for.”
CAO Jeff Renaud informed council of the survey results much to their surprise. Of the 24 results received – eight did not respond – the results were:
- 11 favoured the gravity system.
- eight favoured the low pressure system
- four said for the M.D. to proceed with no project.
- one did not check any of the boxes and was deeded a no vote.
“Much to our surprise,” said Renaud, noting residents favoured the far more expensive system.
The gravity system will cost an estimated $3.528 million while the low pressure system cost only $1.4 million. After grants, the cost of Faust residents is $776,000 for the gravity system but only $127,000 for low pressure. The bill can be paid up front or debentured for 20 years.
“I’m surprised they didn’t go with the low pressure,” said Faust Councillor Violet Campiou.
Reeve Alvin Billings added one of the landowners with large frontage will pay $200,000.
“We’re in a position where we can go with the low pressure,” said Joussard Councillor Guy L’Heureux.
“It’s your call,” said Renaud.
“But the majority of them want (the gravity system),” said Prairie Echo, Salt Prairie Councillor David Marx.
“You had to be at the meetings,” said public works Supt. Len Racher. “Everyone wanted low pressure.”
However, Billings informed council a decision to go with the gravity system “would break a couple people” who couldn’t pay the huge bills.
“We have to go back to them,” said Campiou.
“They wanted to vote; unfortunately, we’re caught,” said Billings.
Campiou moved to proceed with the low pressure system despite residents’ wishes. The vote passed 5-3 with councillors Ken Matthews of Triangle, Gilwood and David Marx of Prairie Echo, Salt Prairie joining Billings in voting against.
Construction on the project is expected to begin early next year.
The project can still be stopped if two-thirds of affected landowners petition the M.D. council against.
< Previous
Home
Next >
|
