Terrace Bay Receives Update on the Proposed Nuclear Waste Corridor

At its latest meeting, Terrace Bay council opened with a land acknowledgment and approved the minutes of the previous session. The first major agenda item was a delegation from the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO). A few weeks ago, council heard concerns from a group opposed to the transportation of nuclear waste through the North Shore district. This meeting allowed council to hear directly from NWMO, the organization responsible for the transportation of nuclear waste.

While no decision has been made regarding the final storage location for the waste, it was important for council and the public to receive first-hand information about ongoing discussions and plans. One of the primary concerns for residents along the North Shore is the possibility of a spill, particularly given the frequency of motor vehicle accidents along Highway 17, the main transportation artery in the region linking eastern and western Canada. Highway 11 is also under consideration as a potential route. Residents have voiced concerns about the impact of road mishaps, especially for those requiring medical transportation between small communities and Thunder Bay. The prospect of a nuclear accident on these roads is alarming to many.

NWMO clarified that two shipments per day would be expected if nuclear waste transportation proceeds, with exceptions for road conditions and weather. Rail transport is also a possibility, though not confirmed. The construction of a storage facility could take another decade, with the full transportation process lasting over 50 years.

During a brief question period, attendees compared the two proposed storage sites. The North Shore's smaller population is seen as a potential advantage, but the shorter transportation routes in southern regions may influence the final decision. A decision is expected by November 24, with an impact assessment that could take up to 10 years to complete.

The next item on the agenda was the CAO report, which addressed proposed changes to the animal control bylaw. John Hall outlined the details, including a new proposal for lifetime pet licensing. The revised bylaw also introduces provisions for animal welfare, giving officers the authority to remove animals from homes in certain circumstances.

Public Works Manager Ryan Falzetto reported on ongoing repairs to infrastructure and municipal buildings, while the Community Safety report highlighted new speed limit changes in town. These changes, requested by residents for months, are now being enacted following a two-month study. A radar camera has been installed on the highway leading into town to collect data on traffic issues.

The Ontario Clean Water Agency (OCWA) presented its drinking water report, noting that there were no major concerns with the current water supply and that electrical issues at the water plant had mostly been resolved.

Under Communications, council discussed the distribution of funds raised from community events. Eligible charities and organizations in Terrace Bay, including the local food bank and animal shelter, will be the first recipients of these donations. Council also passed all bylaws presented at the meeting.

A letter of support will be drafted to advocate for improvements in emergency medical services (EMS), with one wording change requested by Councillor Dube. Concerns have been raised about long wait times for medical care, and the ongoing struggle to attract EMS workers to the area. A recent incident where a resident passed away due to a lack of ambulance service to Thunder Bay was cited as an example of the critical need for improvement.

Additionally, council discussed plans for a car show at the airport runway, which could become an annual event.

No questions were submitted online for the question period, but in-person attendees raised concerns about a recent boil water advisory. An explanation was provided by council in response to the issue.

The open meeting was then adjourned, and council moved into a closed session.