Lakeshore Invests In Flood Response

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Lakeshore council has started taking steps towards starting the implementation of its Flood Mitigation & Protection Framework.

“As a Council, reducing the impact of flooding and protecting our community members and their homes is the highest priority. This is the bold vision and comprehensive action that the Municipality needs and our residents expect,” said Mayor Tom Bain. “However, we also recognize the need to work with local stakeholder and higher levels of government to achieve these goals.”

The framework will focus on both roadway and basement flooding caused by stormwater and sanitary sources. It includes investments in new programs, expanded investigation and by-law enforcement capacity, policy and by-law reviews, as well as staff positions designed to support its implementation. Moving forward, the Municipality will roll out a smoke testing program to identify sanitary sewer cross-connections, expand building inspections, review drainage systems and development standards, and create a Flooding Rapid Response Plan.

“While it won’t be a quick fix, the framework is a significant investment in our organizational capacity and a step towards ensuring the safety of our citizens and their properties in the face of flooding,” said Truper McBride, Chief Administrative Officer. “As we roll out the framework we will continue to communicate to our community members about available programs and support as well as seek the feedback of those impacted.”

Citizens and property owners impacted by flooding are asked to fill out the Online Flooding Survey which will assist in identifying problem areas.

The Municipality will be hosting public meetings in the fall to share information about flooding mitigation and gather community comments. Details about the meeting will be promoted locally and shared online at Lakeshore.ca/Flooding.

Property owners may also be eligible for a number of subsidies designed to mitigate flooding, including mini-camera inspections, backwater valves, sump pump overflows, and downspout disconnections. These all form an important part in protecting residents from flooding.