Residents concerned about the impact of groundwater pumping by the Region of Waterloo on their private wells can expect a revamped complaint process soon. Regional staff presented a draft of proposed revisions to the well interference policy during a special council meeting on Wednesday.
Following direction in May to address a water capacity constraint affecting the Mannheim Service Area and areas of Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Woolwich, and Wilmot, staff collaborated with municipal representatives, a third-party consultant, and community groups like Citizens for Safe Groundwater to develop the report.
Key changes in the proposed policy include the introduction of hydrogeological investigations for eligible complaints with expert input, replacing compensation caps with reimbursements for affected residents, and establishing a new appeals committee for a more transparent and equitable process.
Wilmot Mayor Natasha Salonen emphasized the need for a resident well owner to be part of the proposed five-member appeals committee, expressing concerns that elected officials on the committee may lack firsthand well ownership experience.
Amy Shaw, the region’s director of water and wastewater operations, explained the new complaint handling procedure, involving interim measures like emergency water provision, resident interviews by consultants, and site visits if groundwater interference is suspected.
Residents will have the opportunity to offer feedback on the draft policy during a public information session on August 20. The finalized report is scheduled for potential approval by regional council on September 9.