The Comox Valley Sewage Commission is rescheduling public engagement on the future of the Comox Valley Sewer Service.
As the community adjusts to a new normal amidst COVID-19, consultation will now take place in the fall.
“Public consultation is a critical part of the planning process underway and – although there are digital tools available – we feel that people need to be focused on the ongoing adjustments to life and routine, and on keeping themselves and others safe at this time,” says Chair of the Sewage Commission David Frisch.
The Comox Valley sewer system treats wastewater from homes and businesses in Courtenay, Comox and K’ómoks First Nation.
New options are being considered to relocate a vulnerable section of sewer pipe that runs along Balmoral Beach, below the Willemar Bluffs.
In early March, the public was asked to weigh in on a shortlist of options for upgrading the service’s conveyance system, including the pipes and pump stations that move wastewater to the sewage treatment plant.
An online survey was launched and open houses were on the schedule for this month, but were cancelled following the recommendations of the Provincial Health Officer.
As COVID-19 measures began to increase, the online survey was suspended as well.
Responses to the online survey have been saved and will be included in the final report.
The new engagement schedule will include online and open house consultation in September, with the goal of staff providing a recommended option, based on the public and technical experts’ feedback, to the sewage commission sometime in November.
“We know that people have a lot on their minds right now, and we want to make sure the quality of our public engagement for this planning process isn’t compromised by pushing forward in this difficult time,” says Kris La Rose, Senior Manager, Water and Wastewater Services. “As we approach the fall, we’ll determine how best to connect with our community when we’re all hopefully in a calmer time.”
For more information on the Comox Valley Sewer Service’s Liquid Waste Management Plan, visit this website.
