THUNDER BAY – Two additional pump motors should be re-installed today with commissioning and testing to be completed Monday at the Atlantic Avenue Water Pollution Control Plant.
If all goes well with the re-commissioning of those pumps, the City will revisit the water restrictions and could re-open the Canada Games Complex, Churchill Pool and Volunteer Pool on Tuesday. Tuesday marks two weeks that the pools have been closed.
“We hope residents will continue to monitor their water use,” said Acting Mayor Rebecca Johnson. “As time progresses we’re getting closer to it being business as usual, but we are not quite there yet. We’re going to gradually return to offering the services that people expect, such as swimming and fitness.”
The re-commissioning of these two large pumps will bring the plant a step closer to full pumping capacity, said Kerri Marshall, Manager of the Environment. If all goes well, there will be four pumps running by Monday night at the Water Pollution Control Plant.
“We thank everyone for their water conservation efforts and ask that they continue reducing their use and wait for a further announcement Tuesday. Everyone’s efforts are making a difference and are appreciated by the team working on the plant and affected homeowners across the city,” Marshall said.
Acting Mayor Johnson wants to remind homeowners to dispose of flood-damaged items by leaving them at the curb for pick-up and contacting 625-2195.
“It’s very important these items are disposed of because they could potentially pose a health risk,” the Acting Mayor said.
Safe Home Clean-up Program
About 502 homeowners have now registered for clean-up assistance through the Safe Home clean-up program through the City’s Facilities & Fleet Department, working with contractors, the Mennonite Disaster Team, Samaritan’s Purse and qualified volunteers.
Initial contact has been made with all 502 homes, though the City is waiting for call-backs from about one third of the homes and is making further contact attempts.
The focus of the ongoing clean-up is on making homes safe and to address health issues. 152 homes have been assisted with more scheduled for today.
“Uninsured homeowners that require assistance with damaged hot water tanks and furnaces are encouraged to call the flood line to request help,” said Michael Smith, General Manager – Facilities and Fleet.
Affected residents, especially those with no insurance, who need help with clean-up are asked to call 98 FLOOD [983-5663].
Registration with the Red Cross
Approximately 900 households have registered with The Canadian Red Cross.
Those currently left most vulnerable by the flooding events can receive extended relief through The Canadian Red Cross Registration and Assessment Centres. Locations and times are as follows:
• St. Peter’s Church, 10 am – 6 pm
• Confederation College McIntyre Building, 1 pm – 6 pm
Saturday and Sunday hours are:
• St. Peters Church, 10 am – 7 pm
• Confederation College, 12 pm – 7 pm
• Moose Hall, 10 am – 6 pm (closing today)
There are also showers available at Lakehead Universty in the South Residence in the Schreider Building. Those interested can check in at the front desk. The shower service is available from 8 am to midnight.
Anyone affected by the flood is encouraged to register with The Canadian Red Cross by calling 98 FLOOD (983-5663) and selecting option 2.