We sent out the call and you delivered - because of your commitment to public sewage treatment we are well on our way! On March 31st, the CRD Board received the recommendation (from the CALWMC, aka the "sewage committee") for a "mostly" public system and the potential for a "fully" public system - this is something to be very proud of!

This means that McLoughlin Point, Clover Point, Saanich East plant, the Energy Centre, conveyance, pumps and outfalls will all be procured using a traditional (PUBLIC) approach and that the Westshore plant and resource recovery component of the energy centre be procured with EITHER a traditional OR an "alternative service delivery" (P3). It is because of overwhelming demand from CRD citizens for PUBLIC sewage treatment that the words "TRADITIONAL OR" were added, which means that the door is still open on the Westshore.

As the CRD Board debated the CALWMC's recommendation, we heard several directors support a public system:
Judy Brownoff (Saanich) said that a P3 limits accoutability, transparency and flexibility and said that she was impressed with public engagement as she received 185 emails from concerned citizens wanting a public system.
Vic Derman (Saanich) echoed Judy's comments adding P3's are shrouded in secrecy.
Philippe Lucas (Victoria) spoke forcefully about a public system and reminded directors that this is a "regional" system for which we are all accountable; he spoke about how over 90% of participants in the public consultation want a PUBLIC system.
Wayne Hunter (Saanich) said he appreciated the public response and encouraged people to contact MLA's as this is now moving on to the Provincial level.
Susan Brice stated her belief that all matters of water and wastewater should be in public hands.
And Dean Fortin shared that he is a strong believer in public management saying that it is his role to ensure that the right information gets to the table and that "I believe that when the truth comes out that we will have a fully public option".

After more than three years of engaging friends, neighbours, and politicians, it was clear that our voices were heard by those making the decisions. The fight is not over. The Westshore still has the option of a private system, so we must encourage neighbours in Colwood and Langford to speak to their local politicians - this is so important to the integrity of our regional system.

The business case will now be forwarded to the Province and a dialogue will begin between the Province, Partnerships BC, and the CRD. We must continue to engage, witness, and dialogue with our local politicians so we do not lose any ground.

Thank you for your commitment...

Greater Victoria Water Watch Coalition