Lakeshore Invests in Flood Response to Protect Residents and their Homes

The Municipality of Lakeshore has taken significant steps towards starting the implementation of its Flood Mitigation & Protection Framework (FMPF).

Approved by Council at a Special Meeting on August 12, the framework represents a multi-pronged approach to addressing the complex challenges of flooding and climate change.

“As a Council, reducing the impact of flooding and protecting our community members and their homes is the highest priority. This is the bold vision and comprehensive action that the Municipality needs and our residents expect,” said Mayor Tom Bain. “However, we also recognize the need to work with local stakeholder and higher levels of government to achieve these goals.”

Last week, the Municipality met with Amarjot Sandhu, Parliamentary Assistant to the Province’s Minister of Infrastructure, and David Piccini, Minister of Environment, Conservation and Parks to bring awareness to the plight of the Municipality and request funding for further flood mitigation efforts.

The framework will focus on both roadway and basement flooding caused by stormwater and sanitary sources. It includes investments in new programs, expanded investigation and by-law enforcement capacity, policy and by-law reviews, as well as staff positions designed to support its implementation.  Moving forward, the Municipality will roll out a smoke testing program to identify sanitary sewer cross-connections, expand building inspections, review drainage systems and development standards, and create a Flooding Rapid Response Plan.

“While it won’t be a quick fix, the framework is a significant investment in our organizational capacity and a step towards ensuring the safety of our citizens and their properties in the face of flooding,” said Truper McBride, Chief Administrative Officer. “As we roll out the framework we will continue to communicate to our community members about available programs and support as well as seek the feedback of those impacted.”

Citizens and property owners impacted by flooding are asked to fill out the Online Flooding Survey which will assist in identifying problem areas.

The Municipality will be hosting public meetings in the fall to share information about flooding mitigation and gather community comments. Details about the meeting will be promoted locally and shared online at Lakeshore.ca/Flooding.

Property owners may also be eligible for a number of subsidies designed to mitigate flooding, including mini-camera inspections, backwater valves, sump pump overflows, and downspout disconnections.  These all form an important part in protecting residents from flooding.

Background and Additional Information

On July 16, 2021 Lakeshore declared a state of emergency due to a significant flooding event after receiving more than 100 mm of rain in a 24 hour period.

The full report on the Flood Mitigation and Protection Framework is available online.

Local updates on flood risks are also available from the Essex Region Conservation Authority’s Flood Status page or the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority’s Flood Notices.