Residents concerned about the impact of groundwater pumping by the Region of Waterloo on their private wells can soon expect a new process for lodging complaints. In a recent special council meeting, regional staff unveiled a draft of proposed revisions to the well interference policy.
Following a directive in May to review the current complaint process due to water capacity constraints in the Mannheim Service Area affecting Kitchener, Waterloo, and parts of Cambridge, Woolwich, and Wilmot, staff collaborated with municipal representatives, a third-party consultant, and community organizations like Citizens for Safe Groundwater to develop the report presented on Wednesday.
Key changes outlined in the draft policy include mandating hydrogeological investigations for eligible complaints with expert input, replacing compensation caps with reimbursements for affected residents, and establishing an appeals committee to ensure transparency and fairness in the process.
Wilmot Mayor Natasha Salonen advocated for the inclusion of a resident well owner on the proposed five-member appeals committee, emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives. Amy Shaw, the region’s director of water and wastewater operations, highlighted the need for independence and transparency in committee selection.
Under the proposed process, upon receiving a complaint, staff would take interim measures such as providing emergency water if necessary, followed by an interview with a consultant and a preliminary assessment. If groundwater interference is suspected, a site visit by a consultant and technician would be conducted.
Residents will have the opportunity to provide feedback on the draft policy during a public information session scheduled for August 20, with the report slated for potential approval by regional council on September 9.