Council Hears Proposals on Food Waste Solutions and Nuclear Waste Concerns

Schreiber Council began the meeting with a land acknowledgment and swiftly moved to approve the evening's agenda.

Although three delegations were scheduled, only two were able to appear before the council. The first delegation, from Food Cycle Science, focused on domestic food waste management. They highlighted the benefits of a program that would help offset the cost of domestic recycling units, which convert food waste into compost. With local landfill sites nearing capacity, the program could significantly reduce bulk waste and prevent food scraps from attracting wildlife. Additionally, the compost produced could help lower gardening costs for residents. Under the proposal, the municipality would purchase the units at a reduced price, and residents could apply to receive them at that discounted rate. Another advantage is that it would reduce greenhouse gas emissions at landfill sites.

The second delegation was from the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO), which is responsible for the transportation of nuclear waste. They discussed a proposal to ship nuclear waste through the North Shore corridor to a site near Ignace. Concerns were raised about the safety of transporting such hazardous material, especially given the high accident rates along the North Shore, which worsen during winter. Furthermore, the potential storage of radioactive waste in the region's pristine wilderness has sparked hesitation among locals. Earlier in the year, a group representing opposition to the nuclear waste transportation plan urged the council to reconsider its participation. Although a disposal site has not yet been confirmed, construction would not begin for another decade once a site is approved. NWMO estimates that trucks would need to transport the waste twice daily for many years, and while rail transport is also being considered, the risk of accidents remains a major concern, especially as trains pass directly through most North Shore towns. In the event of an accident, traffic to Thunder Bay could be severely disrupted, potentially impacting hospital services.

During question period, no questions were submitted. The minutes from the previous meeting were accepted as circulated, and recommendations were finalized. These included the completion of a ramp and steps at the senior center and the approval of a request from the North Shore Harvest Cupboard food bank to use the recreation hall free of charge. Dates for the upcoming winter carnival were approved, with the recreation committee submitting plans for the event. Additionally, a resolution urging the government to review the municipal assessment cycle was passed.

There were no accounts for payment or unfinished business.

In the "Other Business" section, the council passed a motion supporting a bylaw between the township and the Trillium Foundation for upcoming grants. A resolution in support of the local figure skating club was also carried. Additionally, the council drafted a letter addressing paramedic shortages and healthcare service shortfalls, which will be sent to both the provincial and federal governments.

Various department and committee reports were reviewed during the Committee of the Whole session. The Economic Development Officer provided updates on ongoing grants and projects awaiting funding. The downtown pavilion project is currently under review due to escalating costs, and it may face delays as infrastructure improvements take priority.

The treasurer’s report focused on rising costs. The council also discussed tax sales of properties, including an old grocery store that has been vacant for many years. Any potential buyer would need to pay the back taxes owed on the property.

The Department of Public Works report addressed ongoing issues at the wastewater plant, which is currently under heavy strain due to equipment breakdowns and rising repair costs. These issues have been prioritized by the council. Other projects, such as the roof replacement at the medical center and renovations at the senior center, have been finalized. Bear traps have also been set up in response to an increase in bear sightings in the community over the past month.

Under the communications section, several submissions were discussed. An online town hall meeting addressed growing concerns among residents about the state of healthcare in the area. Additionally, the food bank requested both a grant in aid and a financial donation for Christmas hampers. The council reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the food bank’s efforts to assist the community.

With no further business, the meeting adjourned.