Regional District of Nanaimo directors have voted in favour of a moratorium that will prevent a well from going online in Nanoose Bay.
At the regional district’s Oct. 14 committee of the whole meeting, Nanoose residents expressed concerns about a Maz-Can Investment subdivision in development in their area. They said the developer has begun water connection work, which could lead to problems, including water supply.
Some expressed disappointment regarding the lack of consultation and some said they were willing to take legal action if necessary, which didn’t sit well with some members of the board, including Bill Veenhof, regional district Area H director.
The subdivision is still subject to Agricultural Land Commission approval and work done is at the developer’s own risk, according to Paul Thorkelsson, the regional district’s chief administrative officer.
George Holme, Nanoose area director, proposed the motion, which directs regional district staff to delay putting the well into regular service in the Nanoose Bay peninsula water service area, for at least a year, pending further discussion with residents to address concerns.
In addition, the motion will see a well water monitoring program developed and implemented in consultation with residents.
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