by Susan Swan
The Village of Clinton got great news on Friday, Jan. 25 when Cathy McLeod, MP announced a $2.45 million grant under the Federal Gas Tax Fund to upgrade the municipal water system. McLeod made the announcement in Council Chambers to the Village of Clinton Council, Village staff, media and interested residents.
“Investing in clean drinking water is an investment in the health and safety of local residents,” said Cathy McLeod, Member of Parliament for Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo.
This two-year project will see a new reserve tank for treated water that will be added to the existing system, an additional UV treatment system, which will be added to the existing chlorination treatment system, and new mechanical/software equipment that will allow remote monitoring during emergencies. This will bring the Village water system in line with Interior Health standards, provide room for growth in the area, and provide water for fire emergencies.
“This project will enable the Village of Clinton to upgrade and meet compliance with the Interior Health Authority’s guidelines on potable water for our drinking water system,” said Mayor Jim Rivett. “It is a great example of the three levels of government co-operating to renew local infrastructure.”
Although the funds come from the Federal Gas Tax the grants are administered by UBCM. “This is a good example of how upgrades to local infrastructure improve community health and safety,” said UBCM President Mary Sjostrom. “UBCM is very appreciative of the support the Gas Tax Fund provides to BC communities to improve core services.”
Harry Lali, MLA Fraser-Nicola commended the Federal Government and praised Village of Clinton Council and Staff for their hard work towards obtaining this grant.
Work on this project is expected to get underway by this summer.