Council Approves Next Steps to Keep Wellington Water Projects on Track
Date: April 25, 2024
Prince Edward County council has approved actions aimed at keeping major water and wastewater projects in Wellington moving forward, while emphasizing that no construction approval or spending has yet been authorized.
At a recent committee of the whole meeting, council directed staff to begin the procurement process for the final design of Wellington’s water and wastewater treatment facilities. Officials stressed that this step is required to meet provincial funding timelines and does not represent approval to build.
The municipality has applied for up to $18 million through Ontario’s Housing Enabling Water Systems Fund. One requirement of the program is that projects must begin before September 2024, with the tendering of final design work qualifying as an eligible start. A funding decision from the province is expected later this summer.
Council also addressed concerns raised by residents about consultant studies related to growth projections, financing, and development charges. After multiple unsuccessful attempts to secure an independent third-party peer review, staff recommended an alternative approach. Council supported having the audit committee define additional scope to be included in upcoming required studies, rather than commissioning a standalone review.
Future work includes a Development Charges Background Study following completion of the Picton Master Servicing Plan in fall 2024, and a new water and wastewater rates study scheduled for 2026. These studies will incorporate community feedback and updated growth and servicing information.
Mayor Steve Ferguson said delaying progress would risk losing critical funding opportunities and send the wrong signal to investors, builders, and the development community. He added that provincial representatives have indicated support for the County’s infrastructure funding request.
The estimated capital cost for Wellington’s water infrastructure projects totals approximately $105 million, including a new water treatment plant, raw water intake, and transmission main connecting Wellington and Picton. County staff reiterated that the long-term financing strategy is based on growth paying for growth through development charges, rather than placing the full burden on existing ratepayers.
Staff also noted that regardless of future development, much of Wellington’s existing water infrastructure is aging and will require replacement within the next decade.
The committee’s recommendations will return to council for final approval at its May 7 meeting.
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