Port Hope council decided to undertake an environmental assessment to study the possible repair or decommissioning of the Garden Hill Dam at a special meeting held on Feb. 24.
Politicians heard presentations from the Garden Hill Neighbourhood Group, the Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority (GRCA), and the Northumberland County Public Works department.
Garden Hill Neighbourhood Group
Kevin Killin, of the Garden Hill Neighbourhood Group, gave a presentation to Port Hope council at a special meeting on Feb. 24 regarding the future of the Garden Hill Dam.
He advocated repairing the Garden Hill Dam, which is in disrepair. Killen highlighted the dam’s historical significance, its role in rural firefighting, and its ecological importance as a habitat for various species. He argued that repairing the dam would avoid significant environmental disturbance and financial risks, contrasting it with the potential costs and uncertainties of decommissioning. The council acknowledged the presentation and discussed the need for further consultation with stakeholders, including the GRCA and First Nations, before making a decision.
Killen presentation:
GRCA presentation regarding the Garden Hill Dam
Port Hope politicians listened to two experts, one from the conservation authority and the others from Northumberland County, provide details related to the future of the Garden Hill Dam on Feb. 24 at a special council meeting.
Presentation was given by Cory Harris, Watershed Services Coordinator, Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority (GRCA), Peter Deshane, Manager of Infrastructure and Denise Marshall, Director of Public Works, Northumberland County.
Councillor heard details about the dam, which is facing significant repair costs estimated at just over $500,000.
The dam is considered high risk, with leakage issues and in need of repair. The Northumberland County Public Works department also identified the need to repair a culvert.
Politicians followed up with a series of questions, which presenters answered.
Presentation and questions:
Garden Hill council debate and decision
During the debate, councillors advocated for the study to address conflicting community perspectives. It will examine the possibility of repairs versus returning the area to a natural state, along with environmental impacts. Council will contribute $100,000 over two years towards the study.
Listen to the debate and see if you agree with the final decision:
In Their Words is a feature that lets people listen to what is happening at the various councils across Northumberland. No spin. No opinions. No one is telling you what to think. Just what was said.
It is a chance you might not have otherwise to hear directly from your elected representatives. I hope you find it useful and informative.
About the Author
