As someone who is concerned about the environment at large and in our own backyard I have acted to ensure that we continue to work proactively to protect our environment for our future generations.

Within six months of assuming the role of Mayor of Pelham I signed a memorandum of understanding with Trout Unlimited. This document stated that we would work together as a team on any environmental project concerning the Twelve Mile Creek. The Twelve Mile Creek is the Region’s last remaining cold water stream that flows year round.

I also presented the motion that Town staff bring forward a report on the erosion problem that was occurring along the Twelve Mile Creek just north of Hwy 20. In this report, among other details, staff expressed reluctance to take on work that would be carried out on private property. After further discussions with Trout Unlimited it was decided that they would take control of the project and report to a committee consisting of Trout Unlimited, Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority, the City of Thorold and the Town of Pelham. The Town’s representatives were Jason Marr, director of public works, Councillor Wayne Olson, and me. The Town donated $70,000 to the cost of the engineering study.

The Town sponsored the sale of 350 rain barrels to town residents. It has been proven in other municipalities that the use of rain barrels decreases the amount of water flowing into storm water ponds, relieving pressure on them.

Another environmental project was the repair and rebuilding of Sulphur Spring Road. Again with both Trout Unlimited and the NPCA involved, along with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, ensuring the protection of the streams and lands impacted by this road work.

At the completion of this project, the Town and Duffin Construction were awarded Public Works Project of the Year for municipalities with under 25,000 residents by the Provincial Public Works Association. The award recognized the environmental difficulties this project faced and overcame when situated next to 12 Mile Creek. It was the first award of this kind ever received by the Town.

Looking Forward. Moving Ahead.
MAYOR MARVIN JUNKIN

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