I am expressing my concerns…

I am expressing my concerns about the current OLT plan (OLT-22-003082) for dealing with biosolids. This plan which has been approved by OLT is setting an unfortunate precedent for the lack of care and safety regarding biosolid storage facilities, especially as it would be the first of its kind in Ontario. If a precedent is to be set, then at least it must be done with a carefully thought out plan that protects residents and the environment. Currently, this potential precedent needs to be revised to reflect the needs of all.

The current proposed site plan indicates a facility with 2’ high walls with the ability to store biosolids up to 7 metres high. Each of 2 bunkers would be covered with tarp and tires only. This is definitely not safe for the residents and the environment.

A more effective solution would be to have a fully enclosed facility with full walls and a permanent roof, including for the loading and unloading areas. A fully enclosed facility would be better able to handle extreme weather events. The storm water runoff would be a significantly lower volume to deal with if the biosolids were completely contained. An example of the dangers of a bunker style facility is what occurred on August 23, 2023. The property for the proposed biosolid storage facility site received 6 inches of rain in less than 3 hours. Fields were flooded. Roads were flooded. Rivers were flooded. The natural runoff for this property is straight downhill into the Sydenham River.

Flooding will not be a unique occurrence given the changes in weather patterns impacted by global warning. Severe and extreme weather events will continue to become our new normal.

The government needs to act in the best interests of our future and our children's future. The current plan appears to be a bandaid approach rather than one that will preserve and protect citizens and the environment.

Please, if a biosolid storage facility needs to be built, ensure that it is covered and contained with protections necessary for everyone's health and well-being. Please listen to your people!

Thank you.