Chemainus residents could see some long-awaited improvements in the coming months, most related to water service and sewer management, but others more visible.
“We have funds set aside for a new dog park if the staff report later this spring comes back showing that is the best path forward,” says Coun. Chris Istace, a Chemainus business owner and the community’s only representative on North Cowichan council.
The cost of the dog park is estimated at $20,000 and the location has yet to be determined.
Also on the drawing board is work on the water wheel in Waterwheel Park, a Chemainus landmark in the centre of town.
“Parks staff have funds set aside to repair and replace the old wooden water wheel which is at the end of its life,” says Istace.
There are several water-related projects including an upgrade to the Chemainus wells chlorination system, a Croft Street watermain and a watermain repair at Bare Point Road.
“These are included in our Chemainus Water and Sewer Utility costs as we have our own systems separate from the rest of North Cowichan and our rates are unique to the town,” Istace explains. “These costs are built into the utility bills we receive separate from taxes.”
Utility costs for Chemainus are going up annually $37 for water, $23 for sewer and $4 for garbage/organics/recycling.
Among the capital projects for the sewer system is an upgrade to the Maple Street pump station at Kin Beach.
Sanitary main upgrades will be done on Severne Street and Esplanade Street in the older area of Chemainus.