The ECA proposed for the…

The ECA proposed for the biosolids storage facility should be not be approved as submitted. The sewage works application as proposed is not sufficient to handle the storm water runoff. The capacity and size of the facility warrants a fully enclosed facility with full walls and a permanent roof, including the loading and unloading areas.
Extreme weather events are becoming more common and the traditional way of managing storm water runoff is no longer effective. On August 23, 2023 the property for the proposed site received 6 inches of rain in less than 3 hours. Fields were flooded. Roads were flooded and the river was flooded. The natural runoff for the property is straight downhill into the Sydenham River. This river is home to many unique species at risk and is a very significant river to our people.
I am a member of Chippewas of the Thames First Nation and my people have been using this river for traditional harvesting and cultural practices since the great migration. I am very concerned about the impact this runoff material could have on my rights with respect to the species that call this river home and the use of the river for my ability to canoe as I have in the past. The Thames River has been stressed and compromised so badly to the point that it has so much pollution that we cannot canoe or use the river without being afraid our children will get sick from infections if they fall in the river. I don't want the same to happen with the Sydenham. We deserve to be able to use the river without suffering skin infections and ear infections if we use it.
I am also concerned about the odours and smells that will be generated from this facility. I have the right to normal use of property without having any adverse affects from the proposed facility. I have had the experience where Clean Harbors Facility impacted the neighbours around that facility with odours and the MECP or the facility could not control it. I believe this will be the same situation and indicates poor planning that leaves the residents in this area subjected to a industrial facility that does not have the proper controls in place.
I am requesting full consultation regarding this ECA application.