Residents concerned about the impact of groundwater pumping by the Region of Waterloo on their private wells will soon have access to a new complaint procedure. In a recent special council meeting, regional officials presented a draft of proposed revisions to the well interference policy. This initiative follows a directive from May to review the existing complaint process due to a water capacity issue in the Mannheim Service Area affecting Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Woolwich, and Wilmot.
The staff report, developed with inputs from municipal representatives, a third-party consultant, and community organizations like Citizens for Safe Groundwater, outlines several key changes. These include the requirement for hydrogeological investigations for eligible complaints, the elimination of compensation caps in favor of reimbursements for affected residents, and the establishment of a new appeals committee to ensure a transparent and equitable process.
Wilmot Mayor Natasha Salonen expressed the need for a resident who owns a well to be included on the proposed appeals committee, emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives. Amy Shaw, the region’s director of water and wastewater operations, highlighted the importance of independence and transparency in the committee’s composition.
Under the proposed process, upon receiving a complaint, interim measures such as emergency water supply will be provided if necessary. Subsequently, a consultant will interview the resident and conduct a preliminary assessment. If groundwater interference is suspected, a site visit will be carried out by the consultant and a technician.
Residents will have the opportunity to offer feedback on the draft policy during a public information session on August 20. The finalized report is expected to be presented to regional council for potential approval on September 9.