ARTHUR – Several worries were presented regarding the Arthur Wastewater Treatment Plant’s future expansions, one councillor citing she is “gravely concerned” about where necessary funding will come from.
The expansion is anticipated to cost $13.5 million to help accommodate 400 new residential units in Arthur.
This will be funded half by internal reserves, the rest split between developer contributions and debt financing.
A lengthy recommendation that got council’s approval directs staff to “finalize the developer agreement framework,” targeting upfront contributions of just over 2 million dollars.
Further, council will authorize staff to proceed, preparing for a debt issuance of at least $4,725,000.
Councillor Sherry Burke said she endorses one key aspect of this plan, but is concerned about the possible amount of debt that could ensue.
Councillor Steve McCabe presented worries about being involved with developers in this context, calling it a “slippery slope.”
Treasurer and Director of Finance Jeremiah Idialu says council’s okay is just the beginning of the work to come.
Mayor Andy Lennox summed up the sentiments of staff, noting this is nothing more than a framework at this point in the process.
He went on to reflect upon the balance of growth and maintaining the necessary infrastructure.
Describing the framework as “preliminary,” Lennox and council will now await next steps which include applying for grants to aid in the cost.
