Puslinch councillors have reiterated their preference that any renewal of Nestlé’s permit to take water be for a five-year period, not 10.
On April 20, councillors received notice from Nestlé on its intent to renew its permit to take water for a 10-year period.
The correspondence states Nestlé Waters Canada has submitted a renewal application for the Aberfoyle source with the Ontario Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MOECC) that “requests no increase to the current water taking limit over a 10-year period.”
Nestlé officials say the Aberfoyle factory has operated sustainably for the last 15 years.
“Over this time, Nestlé Waters Canada has built a robust data-driven source monitoring program … Water withdrawals are highly regulated and Nestle Waters employs third-party experts using sound scientific methodologies to manage for long-term sustainability,” states the letter from Nestlé.
The ministry is expected to soon publish the application on the Ontario Environmental Registry (EBR) for public review and comment. Following the standard 30 day regulatory consultation period, the MOECC will review the comments and make a decision on whether the Aberfoyle source permit will be renewed.
Councillor Wayne Stokley reiterated concern that the company was again trying for a 10-year permit.
“In the past, council has sought five years as the optimum timeframe,” said Stokley, who added he would prefer not to change that as it would impact other groups.
Fielding agreed with a five-year permit.
Lever said he had the impression that Nestlé was beginning community outreach before the EBR process begins.
He added that when the EBR comes out, the municipality’s comment regarding the timeframe will be consistent with past comments suggesting a five-year renewal.
