John Oosterhof predicts a new wastewater plant will help make Grand Valley a thriving community – “as it once was.”
Oosterhof, the Mayor of East Luther Grand Valley, said the new $15.6-million facility will attract new residential and commercial growth, from which all village residents will benefit.
The township has been working on a new wastewater plan for about eight years, and the mayor called Sept. 25 “a great day for Grand Valley.”
Dufferin-Caledon MP David Tilson announced the wastewater project would receive one-third of the total cost – up to $5.2-million – from the federal government through the Canada Ontario Affordable Housing Program. The township and province will also contribute $5.2-million each under the agreement.
“This has been a long time coming,” Tilson told a crowd of about 20. “Obviously it is much needed.” He congratulated Oosterhof and the rest of council for their hard work in lobbying for the grant.
MPP Sylvia Jones echoed that sentiment, saying, “If there is ever a case of persistence pays off, I think we’re seeing it today.” She congratulated the township and noted when all three levels of government work together they can accomplish great things.
Jeff Langlois, from R.J. Burnside and Associates, which has been working with the township on the issue for years, said the new facility will be twice as big as the current plant. He noted it will better serve not only the existing population, but also accommodate about 1,300 additional people or about 300 new homes.
Tom Kriszan, a local developer with Thomasfield Homes, has wanted to build homes in Grand Valley for a number of years, but that was not possible until a new wastewater facility was in place.
“I view this … not as a grant, but as an investment in this community,” he said, noting the government will make its money back in taxes when development proceeds. Kriszan then made a promise to the local community.
“I will always be there to treat Grand Valley’s interests foremost and we will cooperate in good faith and ensure that Grand Valley is developed for the benefit of everyone.”
Councillor John Ince said it is important to remember previous councils have tried to build a new wastewater facility but always walked away at a certain point due to the cost.
He added special recognition should go to Oosterhof and CAO Jane Wilson for their efforts to ensure that was not the case this time around.
