ST. PAUL – While a project to determine the condition of water distribution and wastewater collection systems Ashmont and Mallaig, and water distribution for Lottie Lake, has been discussed for several years, residents will soon have the chance to get more information about the potential project through a series of open houses scheduled for February.
Over the past few years, the County of St. Paul has analyzed the feasibility of fully replacing underground infrastructure that distributes water and collects wastewater in the hamlets, according to information presented to council at the Jan. 9 regular meeting.
The County has been analyzing if the wastewater collection systems in Ashmont and Mallaig can be rehabilitated rather than replaced. In addition, administration has been looking at how to fund the project.
“It has been determined that some of the costs associated would be covered from general taxation, while other costs would be covered through utility rates and Local Improvement or Special taxation,” according to information from the County.
The County has also asked the province for help funding the project, according to administration, but no commitment has been made.
Utility rates have recently been increased for the three hamlets, which includes the addition of a Capital Contribution fixed rate. Money coming from the Capital Contribution will go to the County’s reserve account to help fund the replacement projects.
More information will be provided to affected residents at open houses set to take place in each of the hamlets in late February. The open house meetings will be held from Feb. 20, 21, and 22 at 7 p.m. in the three hamlets.
County will be sending out notices as to where the open meetings will specifically be held within the given dates.
